VGC 17 Analysis: Arcanine

(VGC 2017) Arcanine  - Physical / Support Movesets


Jan 15th 2017

Deviant Art by blastertwo

Arcanine. AKA The "1st" Legendary Pokemon. AKA Fire Doge. AKA WOOF. AKA MacFluffy. AKA  In-Game Archer. AKA ALOE VERA PUPPER

Alright then. With the lack of Fire-type Pokemon in the Alolan Dex, players have only a few options to consider for this rather critical slot. The new VGC 17 format has been rather kind to the Fire-type Arcanine as it stands out as one of the best offensive and defensive options against opposing VGC teams. To start out, Arcanine has a remarkably high BST for a 1st-Stage-Only Pokemon with a respectable 110 Atk / 110 SpA / 95 Spe for offense and 90 HP / 80 Def / 80 SpDef for overall bulk. Both offensive stats for Arcanine are great to make use of either a physical or special attacking variant, though lacks a strong movepool to abuse can hurt at times. Much of Arcanine's main physical movepool usage consist of the STAB Flare Blitz, coverage options (Wild Charge, Close Combat, Crunch), and priority in Extreme Speed.  In terms of speed, base 95 Spe is rather above average as Arcanine is capable of outpacing a good chunk of the format when invest, though is outspeed by faster threats such as Garchomp or Tapu Koko.

From a support standpoint, Arcanine is viewed as one of the best "splashable" Pokemon in the current VGC format given its naturally above high average defensive stats with access to a decent support coverage to assist its team. One of Arcanine's best saving grace is the capability of switching into numerous resisted types and most notably the Intimidate ability to suppress opposing physical attackers' damage. If that weren't enough, Arcanine's support coverage is rather strong with moves like Snarl / Will-O-Wisp to hinder opposing physical/special damage output, powerful Special Fire-type attacks ( Overheat / Burn Out / Heat Wave ), and other random decent coverage options ( Morning Sun / Roar / Helping Hand ) for niche roles. On this note, Arcanine is one of the best Firium Z users abuse its strong Fire-type options like Z-Flare Blitz or Z-Overheat to pin down or deal heavy damage against most super effective or neutral targets.

While Arcanine is a fairly popular and strong choice in this VGC format, the Fire-type doge still suffers some notable weaknesses. Despite Arcanine resists a good number of Pokemon with its Fire-typing, it is weak to opposing Water-, Ground-, and Rock-type Pokemon, which all three type easily pressure. Said this before, though remind everyone that Arcaine's movepool is still rather limited exclusively to a select number of moves. The special movepool is almost non-existent with Arcanine having to rely heavily on its special Fire-type movepool (and some niche options) and a physical movepool that's predictable at best. On a final note, Arcanine's BST is only above average at best given none of its stats "stand out" compared to other mons which has one notably stat.

Even with these notable flaws, Arcanine still finds a role to fit on almost any team archetype given how its only few "Fire-type" Pokemon which nautrally high stats, high support / disruption value, a strong defensive Ability Intimidate, and its unpredictability despite its limited movepool. Keep in mind, there's a rise of powerful Fairy-, Steel-, Ice-, Grass-, and Bug-type Pokemon with the new Alola Dex, and almost all of these Pokemon are weak or held down by Arcanine itself. To put this perspective, there isn't even a few Pokemon who can check / counter threats like Alolan Ninetales, Tapu Bulu, Kartana, Metagross, Celesteela, Pheromosa, etc as well as Arcanine for both a defensive and offensive point. Arcanine's main use in this format is not only due to its the lack of strong Fire-types, rather the need to fill a necessary void in placing some of the most used Pokemon in check with its STAB Fire-type attacks or support options.  

---

Arcanine

Type: :fire:
Base Stats: 90 HP / 110 Attack / 80 Defense / 100 Special Attack / 80 Special Defense / 95 Speed
Weaknesses:  :rock: x2  :ground: x2  :water: x2
Resistances:   :steel:  x0.5  :bug: x0.5 :ice: x0.5   :fire:  x0.5 :fairy: x0.5   :grass: x0.5
Immunities: None (except with Flash Fire ability is immune to  :fire: )
Ability 1: Intimidate - Reduced the foe(s) attack stat by one stage.
Ability 2: Flare Fire - Gives the user Fire-type immunity and raises Fire-type attacks by 50%.
Hidden Ability: Justified - Raises the Attack stat one stage every time the user is hit by a Dark-type move.

---

Offensive Physical Attacker

Arcanine (M) @ Firium Z  / Life Orb
Ability: Intimidate
Level: 50
EVs: 76 HP / 220 Atk / 4 Def / 12 SpD / 196 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Flare Blitz
- Wild Charge
- Extreme Speed / Crunch / Close Combat
- Protect

Milestones:
-Outspeeds Base 75 Speed
-Hail / Sand Damage is lessen thanks to HP number

This Arcanine set utilizes the Adamant nature to maximize its natural damage output for most of its mainline physical attacks. Speaking of attacks, there are some options to consider for this Fire-type dog such as Flare Blitz and its Z variant. Flare Blitz is one of Arcanine strongest STAB attacks with a base 120 power and can put a huge dent on even neutral targets. If holding the Firium Z, Arcanine can use Z-Flare Blitz, which is essentially a base 190 Fire-type nuke that can certainly knock out any Pokemon weak to Fire, or even has taken some considerable damage. Given this is only a one time use Z-Move, only use Z-Flare Blitz when Arcanine has a target pin down or is considerably weaken.

In terms of the rest of its coverage, Arcanine has a variety of use from. Wild Charge is incredibly useful for opposing Water-type Pokemon, especially against Aranaquid, Gyarados, Pelipper, etc. Extreme Speed is a strong +2 priority-based attack to pick off low-hp targets, though keep in mind the potential Tapu Lele and Psychic Terrain of course. Crunch is a niche move used only against opposing Ghost-types like Alolan Marowak which Arcanine is walled by. Finally Close Combat can is for opposing Rock-, and Normal-type Pokemon such as Gigalith, Snorlax, or Porygon2. Lastly Protect is always a strong defensive move for scouting and positioning purposes.

Here this Arcanine set is listed with the Firium Z and the Life Orb given both sets are viable option for the Fire-type to use. While Firium Z allows Arcanine to use Z-Flare Blitz to decimate targets, Life Orb can be exchange in case the user was Arcanine to deal major damage, though losing 10% HP every time. It really comes down to whether the player wants that Z-Move potential or the extra damage output from Arcanine to get the upper hand. In short, here are several damage calculations featuring offensive Arcanine with Adamant nature and some of its attacks listed down.

Offensive Calcs:

[spoiler]

Adamant 252+ Flare Blitz

252+ Atk Arcanine Flare Blitz vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Tapu Bulu: 180-212 (101.6 - 119.7%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252+ Atk Arcanine Flare Blitz vs. 220 HP / 36 Def Metagross: 156-186 (85.2 - 101.6%) -- 6.3% chance to OHKO
252+ Atk Arcanine Flare Blitz vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Magnezone: 180-212 (101.6 - 119.7%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252+ Atk Arcanine Flare Blitz vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Porygon-Z: 135-159 (83.8 - 98.7%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252+ Atk Arcanine Flare Blitz vs. 248 HP / 0 Def Vanilluxe: 230-272 (129.9 - 153.6%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252+ Atk Arcanine Flare Blitz vs. 188 HP / 12 Def Dhelmise: 200-236 (118.3 - 139.6%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252+ Atk Arcanine Flare Blitz vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Tapu Koko: 115-136 (78.7 - 93.1%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252+ Atk Arcanine Flare Blitz vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Tapu Lele: 127-150 (87.5 - 103.4%) -- 25% chance to OHKO
252+ Atk Arcanine Flare Blitz vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Celesteela: 194-230 (95 - 112.7%) -- 75% chance to OHKO
252+ Atk Arcanine Flare Blitz vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Muk-Alola: 127-150 (59.9 - 70.7%) -- guaranteed 3HKO after Gluttony Figy Berry recovery

Adamant 252+ Z-Flare Blitz

252+ Atk Arcanine Inferno Overdrive (190 BP) vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Muk-Alola: 201-237 (94.8 - 111.7%) -- 68.8% chance to OHKO

252+ Atk Arcanine Inferno Overdrive (190 BP) vs. 244 HP / 92 Def Eviolite Porygon2: 105-124 (54.9 - 64.9%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

252+ Atk Arcanine Inferno Overdrive (190 BP) vs. 236 HP / 12 Def Tapu Koko: 178-211 (101.7 - 120.5%) -- guaranteed OHKO

252+ Atk Arcanine Inferno Overdrive (190 BP) vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Celesteela: 308-366 (150.9 - 179.4%) -- guaranteed OHKO

252+ Atk Arcanine Inferno Overdrive (190 BP) vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Mimikyu: 189-223 (116.6 - 137.6%) -- guaranteed OHKO

252+ Atk Arcanine Inferno Overdrive (190 BP) vs. 68 HP / 188 Def Snorlax: 175-207 (71.7 - 84.8%) -- 86.7% chance to 2HKO after Gluttony Figy Berry recovery

252+ Atk Arcanine Inferno Overdrive (190 BP) vs. 220 HP / 36 Def Metagross: 248-294 (135.5 - 160.6%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252+ Atk Arcanine Inferno Overdrive (190 BP) vs. 244 HP / 12+ Def Mandibuzz: 138-163 (63.8 - 75.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
252+ Atk Arcanine Inferno Overdrive (190 BP) vs. 252 HP / 140 Def Oranguru: 162-192 (82.2 - 97.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery

Adamant 252+ Wild Charge

-1 252+ Atk Arcanine Wild Charge vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Gyarados: 164-196 (96.4 - 115.2%) -- 81.3% chance to OHKO

252+ Atk Arcanine Wild Charge vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Pelipper: 204-240 (122.1 - 143.7%) -- guaranteed OHKO

252+ Atk Arcanine Wild Charge vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Braviary: 128-152 (72.7 - 86.3%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252+ Atk Arcanine Wild Charge vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Talonflame: 134-158 (87 - 102.5%) -- 18.8% chance to OHKO
252+ Atk Arcanine Wild Charge vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Araquanid: 108-128 (61.7 - 73.1%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252+ Atk Arcanine Wild Charge vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Milotic: 84-100 (41.5 - 49.5%) -- guaranteed 3HKO

252+ Atk Arcanine Wild Charge vs. 252 HP / 20 Def Tapu Fini: 90-106 (50.8 - 59.8%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

Adamant 252+ Extreme Speed / Crunch / Close Combat

252+ Atk Arcanine Extreme Speed vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Tapu Koko: 51-61 (34.9 - 41.7%) -- guaranteed 3HKO

252+ Atk Arcanine Extreme Speed vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Talonflame: 59-70 (38.3 - 45.4%) -- guaranteed 3HKO
252+ Atk Arcanine Extreme Speed vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Garchomp: 47-56 (25.6 - 30.6%) -- guaranteed 4HKO

252+ Atk Arcanine Extreme Speed vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Pelipper: 45-53 (26.9 - 31.7%) -- guaranteed 4HKO

252+ Atk Arcanine Crunch vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Marowak-Alola: 82-98 (49.1 - 58.6%) -- 98% chance to 2HKO

252+ Atk Arcanine Close Combat vs. 68 HP / 188 Def Snorlax: 148-176 (60.6 - 72.1%) -- guaranteed 3HKO after Gluttony Figy Berry recovery

252+ Atk Arcanine Close Combat vs. 228 HP / 52 Def Gigalith: 102-122 (53.9 - 64.5%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
-1 252+ Atk Arcanine Close Combat vs. 28 HP / 0 Def Krookodile: 108-128 (62 - 73.5%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

252+ Atk Arcanine Close Combat vs. 244 HP / 92 Def Eviolite Porygon2: 90-106 (47.1 - 55.4%) -- 67.2% chance to 2HKO

[/spoiler]

Defensive

[spoiler]

-1 252 Atk Garchomp Earthquake vs. 76 HP / 4 Def Arcanine: 102-120 (58.2 - 68.5%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252+ SpA Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 76 HP / 12 SpD Arcanine in Psychic Terrain: 150-177 (85.7 - 101.1%) -- 6.3% chance to OHKO
252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Koko Thunderbolt vs. 76 HP / 12 SpD Arcanine in Electric Terrain: 144-172 (82.2 - 98.2%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
-1 252+ Atk Gyarados Waterfall vs. 76 HP / 4 Def Arcanine: 116-138 (66.2 - 78.8%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
-1 252 Atk Kartana Sacred Sword vs. 76 HP / 4 Def Arcanine: 52-62 (29.7 - 35.4%) -- 23.3% chance to 3HKO
-1 252+ Atk Celesteela Heavy Slam (120 BP) vs. 76 HP / 4 Def Arcanine: 38-45 (21.7 - 25.7%) -- 0.5% chance to 4HKO
-1 252+ Atk Muk-Alola Knock Off (97.5 BP) vs. 76 HP / 4 Def Arcanine: 63-75 (36 - 42.8%) -- guaranteed 3HKO

[/spoiler]

---

Choice Band

Arcanine @ Choice Band
Ability: Intimidate
Level: 50
EVs: 244 Atk / 12 SpD / 252 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Flare Blitz
- Wild Charge
- Close Combat
- Extreme Speed

Milestones:
- Speed ties with opposing base 95 speed Pokemon
- Cleanly OHKOs offensive Gyarados even with an Intimidate
- OHKOs Offenive Tapu Koko / Tapu Lele / Tapu Bulu with CB Flare Blitz

The biggest standout of this Choice Band Arcanine set is the potential to knockout most of the Tapus in one blow with the damage from a Choice Band Flare Blitz. The goal is to attempt to setup some form of speed control like Tailwind to abuse Choice Band Arcanine's power and hit things hard. The damage output from Choice Band speaks for itself as Arcanine is capable of getting some rather quick OHKOs or severely denting Pokemon Porygon2, Aranaquid, Gyarados, Celesteela, etc. Likewise, Flare Blitz is Arcanine's strongest physical attack which is capable of nuke down most Pokemon either to Fire-type or with frail defenses. Wild Charge with the Choice Band can now pickup the OHKO against Gyarados, so Arcanine doesn't have to fear the opposing Intimidate. Close Combat is listed for coverage against Pokemon like Gigalith, Snorlax, or Porygon2 who all three are rather bulky and tough to take down. CB Close Combat won't OHKO, but can certainly do major damage to them. Finally Extreme Speed is there for priority purposes, especially now that Arcanine has that extra damage output from Choice Band. Will list down the offensive Calcs for Choice Band Arcanine with a Jolly nature down below: 

Offensive Calcs
[spoiler]

Jolly 252 Choice Band Flare Blitz 

244 Atk Choice Band Arcanine Flare Blitz vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Tapu Koko: 156-184 (106.8 - 126%) -- guaranteed OHKO

244 Atk Choice Band Arcanine Flare Blitz vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Tapu Lele: 171-202 (117.9 - 139.3%) -- guaranteed OHKO
244 Atk Choice Band Arcanine Flare Blitz vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Tapu Bulu: 240-284 (135.5 - 160.4%) -- guaranteed OHKO
244 Atk Choice Band Arcanine Flare Blitz vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Porygon-Z: 181-214 (112.4 - 132.9%) -- guaranteed OHKO

244 Atk Choice Band Arcanine Flare Blitz vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Xurkitree: 178-211 (111.9 - 132.7%) -- guaranteed OHKO

244 Atk Choice Band Arcanine Flare Blitz vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Muk-Alola: 171-202 (80.6 - 95.2%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Gluttony Figy Berry recovery
244 Atk Choice Band Arcanine Flare Blitz vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Eviolite Clefairy: 100-118 (56.4 - 66.6%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
244 Atk Choice Band Arcanine Flare Blitz vs. 220 HP / 36 Def Metagross: 212-252 (115.8 - 137.7%) -- guaranteed OHKO

Jolly 252 Choice Band Close Combat

244 Atk Choice Band Arcanine Close Combat vs. 68 HP / 188 Def Snorlax: 200-236 (81.9 - 96.7%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Gluttony Figy Berry recovery
244 Atk Choice Band Arcanine Close Combat vs. 228 HP / 52 Def Gigalith: 140-166 (74 - 87.8%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
244 Atk Choice Band Arcanine Close Combat vs. 244 HP / 92 Def Eviolite Porygon2: 120-142 (62.8 - 74.3%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
244 Atk Choice Band Arcanine Close Combat vs. 196 HP / 60 Def Drampa: 192-228 (107.8 - 128%) -- guaranteed OHKO
244 Atk Choice Band Arcanine Close Combat vs. 228 HP / 124 Def Lapras: 188-222 (80.3 - 94.8%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

Jolly 252 Choice Band Wild Charge

244 Atk Choice Band Arcanine Wild Charge vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Golduck: 168-198 (108.3 - 127.7%) -- guaranteed OHKO
244 Atk Choice Band Arcanine Wild Charge vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Milotic: 114-136 (56.4 - 67.3%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
-1 244 Atk Choice Band Arcanine Wild Charge vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Gyarados: 224-264 (131.7 - 155.2%) -- guaranteed OHKO
244 Atk Choice Band Arcanine Wild Charge vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Talonflame: 180-212 (116.8 - 137.6%) -- guaranteed OHKO
244 Atk Choice Band Arcanine Wild Charge vs. 252 HP / 20 Def Tapu Fini: 120-142 (67.7 - 80.2%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

Jolly 252 Choice Band Extreme Speed

244 Atk Choice Band Arcanine Extreme Speed vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Tapu Koko: 69-82 (47.2 - 56.1%) -- 81.6% chance to 2HKO
244 Atk Choice Band Arcanine Extreme Speed vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Tapu Lele: 77-91 (53.1 - 62.7%) -- guaranteed 2HKO (Note when Psychic Terrain is gone)
244 Atk Choice Band Arcanine Extreme Speed vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Garchomp: 63-75 (34.4 - 40.9%) -- guaranteed 3HKO
244 Atk Choice Band Arcanine Extreme Speed vs. 0 HP / 0- Def Pheromosa: 142-168 (97.2 - 115%) -- 87.5% chance to OHKO
[/spoiler]

---

Fast Support

Arcanine @ Sitrus Berry
Ability: Intimidate
Level: 50
EVs: 236 HP / 4 Def / 4 SpA / 12 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Flamethrower / Overheat / Burn Out / Heat Wave
- Will-O-Wisp
- Snarl
- Protect / Morning Sun / Roar

Milestones: 
- Speed ties with opposing base 95 and outspeed anything below nautrally.
- Garchomp's EQ is a 3HKO after Intimitate and Sitrus Berry
- Takes two Wood Hammers from Tapu Bulu
-Takes one Psychic from Tapu Lele
Takes one Thunderbolt from Modest Tapu Koko

Given how most Pokemon fall below base 95 speed, this variant of Arcanine has picked up to be one of the widely used support-based Pokemon in the VGC format. One of Arcanine's main selling points as a defensive Fire-type is its access to the Intimidate ability and key moves such as Snarl and Wisp to bear down the opposing team's damage output. Starting with its Fire-type coverage, Arcanine can utilize any of the four listed down but will say what each does. Flamethrower is a classic base 95 Fire-type move which doesn't have much else to use aside its single-target damage and reliable, though weak. Overheat and Burn Out both have a base 130 Fire-type moves which can deal heavy damage to the opposing targets but have severe drawbacks. With Overheat, this attack will reduce Arcanine's Special Attack by two stages every time its use and has a chance to miss as well. Burn Out is a new Fire-type attack which does the same power as Overheat without the drop, however it changes Arcanine's type to be "typeless" and prevents it from using the attack again until switched out. Lastly Heat Wave deals spread damage against opposing targets, but there's a chance it can be blocked by Wide Guard users. Even though that was a rather lengthy explanation of the moves, just keep in mind what advantages / disadvantages of using some of these special Fire-type on Arcanine.

In terms of the other coverage support options, Arcanine has plenty to utilize. Will-O-Wisp can  burn any potential targets to effectively reduce their attack in half, and can pair well thanks to the Intimidate ability. Snarl is a Dark-type spread attack which can reduce the special attack of the opposing side by one stage, so useful to suppress special attackers. Morning Sun is Arcanine's only recovery move to use, though it has less Power Points and can be neutered to 1/3th healing if any weather shows up. Helping Hand is a great support move to help Arcanine increase the power of opposing Pokemon by 1.5x, so pair with with a strong attacker or Z-Move user. Roar is a niche tech option used for opposing setup-based strategies such as Trick Room, or remove setup/sub users. Lastly Protect is important for Arcanine to scout for attack or positioning.

Keep in mind though Arcanine has some strong support coverage moves, its not nessesarly a defensive Pokemon especially in a fact-paced environment like Doubles. Using these support Arcanine sets means it has to get off those Snarls / Wisps off ASAP, as it won't stick around for long unless its using the Morning Sun. Don't try to use Arcanine in attempts to "wall" potential mons, rather scout for any potential hazardous Z-move lures if possible since chances are the opponent will target Arcanine with them. In terms of Item Choice, Sitrus Berry is the standard on these Arcanine sets to allow it to gain back 25% HP when at 50% or below. Other items like Leftovers, Figy Berry, Safety Goggles, and even Firium Z are interesting options to consider and will be explored next.

Here are some defensive calcs for "Fast Support" Arcanine, with Intimidate.

Defensive Calcs

[spoiler]

Physical Defense 

-1 252 Atk Garchomp Earthquake vs. 236 HP / 4 Def Arcanine: 102-120 (52.3 - 61.5%) -- guaranteed 3HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
-1 252+ Atk Gyarados Waterfall vs. 236 HP / 4 Def Arcanine: 116-138 (59.4 - 70.7%) -- 79.3% chance to 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
-1 252 Atk Aerodactyl Rock Slide vs. 236 HP / 4 Def Arcanine: 66-78 (33.8 - 40%) -- guaranteed 4HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
-1 252+ Atk Guts Hariyama Close Combat vs. 236 HP / 4 Def Arcanine: 127-150 (65.1 - 76.9%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
252+ Atk Metagross Earthquake vs. 236 HP / 4 Def Arcanine: 114-136 (58.4 - 69.7%) -- 75.4% chance to 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
-1 252 Atk Kartana Sacred Sword vs. 236 HP / 4 Def Arcanine: 52-62 (26.6 - 31.7%) -- 0.4% chance to 4HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
-1 252+ Atk Meadow Plate Tapu Bulu Wood Hammer vs. 236 HP / 4 Def Arcanine in Grassy Terrain: 80-95 (41 - 48.7%) -- 29.5% chance to 3HKO after Grassy Terrain recovery and Sitrus Berry recovery
-1 252+ Atk Pheromosa All-Out Pummeling (195 BP) vs. 236 HP / 4 Def Arcanine: 151-178 (77.4 - 91.2%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
-1 252+ Atk Thick Club Marowak-Alola Bonemerang (2 hits) vs. 236 HP / 4 Def Arcanine: 144-172 (73.8 - 88.2%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery


Special Defense 

252 SpA Nihilego Power Gem vs. 236 HP / 12 SpD Arcanine: 158-188 (81 - 96.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
252+ SpA Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 236 HP / 12 SpD Arcanine in Psychic Terrain: 150-177 (76.9 - 90.7%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
252+ SpA Life Orb Tapu Koko Thunderbolt vs. 236 HP / 12 SpD Arcanine in Electric Terrain: 157-187 (80.5 - 95.8%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
252+ SpA Life Orb Xurkitree Thunderbolt vs. 236 HP / 12 SpD Arcanine: 160-188 (82 - 96.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
252 SpA Salamence Devastating Drake (195 BP) vs. 236 HP / 12 SpD Arcanine: 175-207 (89.7 - 106.1%) -- 37.5% chance to OHKO
252 SpA Gengar Sludge Bomb vs. 236 HP / 12 SpD Arcanine: 91-108 (46.6 - 55.3%) -- 17.6% chance to 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
252 SpA Raichu-Alola Thunderbolt vs. 236 HP / 12 SpD Arcanine: 75-88 (38.4 - 45.1%) -- 50.9% chance to 3HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
68 SpA Gastrodon Scald vs. 236 HP / 12 SpD Arcanine: 108-128 (55.3 - 65.6%) -- 16.8% chance to 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery

[/spoiler]

---

Special Firium Z Support

Arcanine @ Firium Z
Ability: Intimidate
Level: 50
EVs: 204 HP / 4 Def / 116 SpA / 4 SpD / 180 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Overheat  / Burn Out
- Will-O-Wisp
- Snarl
- Protect

Milestones: 
- Outspeeds Timid Tapu Fini by one point.
- HP Value to reduce Hail / Sand Damage.
Special Firum Z Overheat / Burn Out has a high chance to OHKO Specially-Defensive Celesteela.
- Similar Defensive Milestones as the "Fast Support" Arcanine, though weaker defensively.

This special support Arcanine set utilize the Firium Z to catch opponents off guard with a strong Z-Move while gives the support Arcanine an extra damage potential. The idea of using Firium Z on a support set is to make up for the damage output and snag some quick OHKOs, or even get heavy damage against the target. This Arcanine set is rather slower than the first at the cost of making Z-Overheat / Burn Out much stronger than their original forms. Keep in mind, some HP EVs have been divert away from to Special Attack and the lack of Sitrus Berry makes this Arcanine set more "frail", though doesn't much recover to begin with. Aside that, the set is almost the same as the above, though will provide some offensive and defensive damage calcs to show this Arcanine's achievements.

Offensive Calcs
[spoiler]

Firium Z Overheat (same with Burn Out)

116 SpA Arcanine Inferno Overdrive (195 BP) vs. 180 HP / 148+ SpD Celesteela: 194-230 (99.4 - 117.9%) -- 93.8% chance to OHKO
116 SpA Arcanine Inferno Overdrive (195 BP) vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Tapu Koko: 156-184 (106.8 - 126%) -- guaranteed OHKO
116 SpA Arcanine Inferno Overdrive (195 BP) vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Kartana: 1164-1372 (862.2 - 1016.2%) -- guaranteed OHKO (Some like to protect so they will faint)
116 SpA Arcanine Inferno Overdrive (195 BP) vs. 220 HP / 0 SpD Assault Vest Metagross: 182-216 (99.4 - 118%) -- 87.5% chance to OHKO116 SpA Arcanine Inferno Overdrive (195 BP) vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Porygon-Z: 156-184 (96.8 - 114.2%) -- 81.3% chance to OHKO

[/spoiler]

Defensive Calcs
[spoiler]

Physically Defensive

-1 252 Atk Garchomp Earthquake vs. 204 HP / 4 Def Arcanine: 102-120 (53.4 - 62.8%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
-1 252 Atk Kartana Sacred Sword vs. 204 HP / 4 Def Arcanine: 52-62 (27.2 - 32.4%) -- guaranteed 4HKO
-1 252+ Atk Muk-Alola Knock Off (97.5 BP) vs. 204 HP / 4 Def Arcanine: 63-75 (32.9 - 39.2%) -- 99.8% chance to 3HKO
-1 252+ Atk Thick Club Marowak-Alola Bonemerang (2 hits) vs. 204 HP / 4 Def Arcanine: 144-172 (75.3 - 90%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
-1 252+ Atk Meadow Plate Tapu Bulu Wood Hammer vs. 204 HP / 4 Def Arcanine in Grassy Terrain: 80-95 (41.8 - 49.7%) -- guaranteed 3HKO after Grassy Terrain recovery

Specially Defensive

252 SpA Nihilego Power Gem vs. 204 HP / 4 SpD Arcanine: 162-192 (84.8 - 100.5%) -- 6.3% chance to OHKO
252+ SpA Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 204 HP / 4 SpD Arcanine in Psychic Terrain: 153-180 (80.1 - 94.2%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 SpA Raichu-Alola Thunderbolt vs. 204 HP / 4 SpD Arcanine: 75-88 (39.2 - 46%) -- guaranteed 3HKO
252+ SpA Life Orb Tapu Koko Thunderbolt vs. 204 HP / 4 SpD Arcanine in Electric Terrain: 160-188 (83.7 - 98.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
[/spoiler]

---

Physical Support Arcanine

Arcanine @ Sitrus Berry
Ability: Intimidate
Level: 50
EVs: 252 HP / 4 Atk / 60 Def / 28 SpD / 164 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Flare Blitz
- Will-O-Wisp
- Snarl
- Protect

Milestones: 
- Outspeed Timid Xurkitree and Gyarados by a couple points
- Garchomp's EQ is a 3HKO after Intimitate and Sitrus Berry
- Takes two Wood Hammers from Tapu Bulu
-Takes one Psychic from Tapu Lele
Takes one Thunderbolt from Modest Tapu Koko
- Similar Damage Calcs as the "Fast Support", though take it better.

This Arcanine set from SekiamVGC was used to in the London Intercontinental Tournament with a rather suprising twist: Flare Blitz on Arcanine instead of a special Fire-type move like Burn Out. The idea of this set is basically to ensure that Arcanine has a strong Physical Fire-type move for targets that can normally take special hits such as Lele or AV Metagross. With the potential of Snarl wars with opposing Arcanine, this one at least has a move were the Fire-type move isn't reduced in effectiveness. Sure it does make this Support Arcanine rather more likely to be knocked out by recoil damage. To find out more about this Arcanine set, here's both Sekiam video (in Spanish) and my recent team report with a similar build. The Defensive Calcs are similar to the first support set so not much to say. 

---

Specially Defensive / Support Arcanine

Arcanine @ Aguav Berry
Ability: Intimidate
Level: 50
EVs: 252 HP / 188 Def / 68 SpD
Calm Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Flamethrower
- Will-O-Wisp
- Snarl
- Roar

Milestones: 
- Guaranteed 4HKO by -1 EQ Garchomp with its 50% Berry.
- Survives Modest LO Lele's Psychic in Psychic Terrain 15/16th of the time.
 - Survives Liquidation from -1 Aranaquid after Intimdate
-  Survives a Z-Draco Meteor from Salamence 100% of the time.

This is a specially defensive Arcanine used by SamVGC ​​​​which can take some of the rather powerful hits from opposing Pokemon like Garchomp, Aranaquid, or Life Orb Tapu Lele. The main selling point of this set is the Aguav Berry on this Arcanine set instead of the traditional Sitrus Berry. With the new berry mechanics, Aguav Berry allows Pokemon to replenish about 50% of their HP, though Arcanine must be at about a quarter HP or less. Most of the moveset is self explanatory with Flamethrower as the standard STAB, Wisp to burn targets, and Snarl to reduce the special attacker's damage output. Roar is on this Arcanine set to phaze out any Trick Room, or any setup based strategies.  

Defensive Calculations

[spoiler]

Physically Defensive

-1 252 Atk Garchomp Earthquake vs. 252 HP / 188 Def Arcanine: 84-98 (42.6 - 49.7%) -- guaranteed 4HKO after Figy Berry recovery
-1 252+ Atk Gyarados Waterfall vs. 252 HP / 188 Def Arcanine: 96-114 (48.7 - 57.8%) -- 90.2% chance to 2HKO after Figy Berry recovery
-1 252+ Atk Muk-Alola Poison Jab vs. 252 HP / 188 Def Arcanine: 42-51 (21.3 - 25.8%) -- 0.2% chance to 4HKO after Figy Berry recovery
-1 252 Atk Aerodactyl Rock Slide vs. 252 HP / 188 Def Arcanine: 54-66 (27.4 - 33.5%) -- Miniscule chance to 3HKO after Figy Berry recovery
-1 252+ Atk Guts Hariyama Close Combat vs. 252 HP / 188 Def Arcanine: 103-123 (52.2 - 62.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Figy Berry recovery
252+ Atk Metagross Earthquake vs. 252 HP / 188 Def Arcanine: 92-110 (46.7 - 55.8%) -- 71.9% chance to 2HKO after Figy Berry recovery
-1 252+ Atk Meadow Plate Tapu Bulu Wood Hammer vs. 252 HP / 188 Def Arcanine in Grassy Terrain: 65-77 (32.9 - 39%) -- 8.1% chance to 3HKO after Grassy Terrain recovery and Figy Berry recovery
-1 228+ Atk Gigalith Rock Slide vs. 252 HP / 188 Def Arcanine: 68-84 (34.5 - 42.6%) -- guaranteed 4HKO after sandstorm damage and Figy Berry recovery
-1 252+ Atk Choice Band Stoutland Return vs. 252 HP / 188 Def Arcanine: 84-99 (42.6 - 50.2%) -- 0.4% chance to 2HKO after Figy Berry recovery
-1 252+ Atk Water Bubble Araquanid Liquidation vs. 252 HP / 188 Def Arcanine: 138-164 (70 - 83.2%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Figy Berry recovery


Specially Defensive

164+ SpA Choice Specs Tapu Fini Muddy Water vs. 252 HP / 68+ SpD Arcanine: 144-170 (73 - 86.2%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Figy Berry recovery
252+ SpA Life Orb Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 252 HP / 68+ SpD Arcanine in Psychic Terrain: 168-199 (85.2 - 101%) -- 6.3% chance to OHKO
68 SpA Gastrodon Scald vs. 252 HP / 68+ SpD Arcanine: 92-110 (46.7 - 55.8%) -- 71.5% chance to 2HKO after Figy Berry recovery
252 SpA Salamence Devastating Drake (195 BP) vs. 252 HP / 68+ SpD Arcanine: 150-177 (76.1 - 89.8%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Figy Berry recovery
252 SpA Life Orb Nihilego Power Gem vs. 252 HP / 68+ SpD Arcanine: 174-211 (88.3 - 107.1%) -- 37.5% chance to OHKO
252 SpA Gengar Sludge Bomb vs. 252 HP / 68+ SpD Arcanine: 78-93 (39.5 - 47.2%) -- guaranteed 4HKO after Figy Berry recovery
252 SpA Ninetales-Alola Blizzard vs. 252 HP / 68+ SpD Arcanine: 26-31 (13.1 - 15.7%) -- possible 5HKO after hail damage and Figy Berry recovery

[/spoiler]

---

Potential Teammates include, but aren't limited to:

• Water -Types  - Almost any Water-types can pair well with Arcanine both an offensive and defensive perspective given the Intimdate support and ability to deal with opposing Grass-types. In turn, Water-types can threaten Water-, Ground-, and even Dragon-type Pokemon with their STAB Water-type + Ice-type coverage. (Ex. Tapu Fini, Gyarados, Aranaquid, Gastrodon, Lapras, etc)
• Grass -Types - Arcanine can help most Grass-type Pokemon such as Kartana, Tapu Bulu, Whimsicott, Dhelmise, etc to deal with opposing Ice / Bug-types, and even take a resisted Fire-type hit if needed. 
• Fairy - Types - Arcanine can threaten most Steel-type Pokemon which Fairy-types fear, and in turn Fairy-types can threaten opposing Dragon-types that Arcanine can't touch. (Ex. All Tapus Koko / Fini / Lele / Bulu, Mimikyu, etc ) 
• Dragon - Types - Dragon-type Pokemon such as Salamence, Garchomp, Goodra, etc appreciate the defensive synergy with Arcanine given its ability to resist Ice- and Fairy-types. 
• Frail Offensive Pokemon:  Pokemon like Tapu Koko, Tapu Lele, Kartana, etc appreciate the Intimdate support from Arcanine to be able to take more hits without committing too much defensive investment. 
• Setup-Based Strategies: This can vary in multiple aspects, but Arcanine's support value can help it secure say Trick Room, Stat Boosts, Tailwind, etc. 

Threats include, but aren't limited to:

• Ground-Types - Garchomp, Krookodile, Mudsdale, Gastrodon, etc. 
• Water-Types - Tapu Fini, Gyarados, Milotic, Aranaquid, Pelipper, etc.
• Rock-Types - Gigalith, Aerodactyl, Nihilego, etc.
• Dragon-types - Salamence, Garchomp, Goodra, 
• Competitive / Defiant Pokemon: Milotic, Arcanine, etc
• Powerful Specs Users with high SpAtk- Tapu Koko, Tapu Lele, Tapu Fini, etc
• Opposing Intimdate: Gyarados, Krookodile, Salamence, etc. 

Other Notable Options 

• Air Balloon and Shuca Berry to prevent or mitigate the damage done by Earthquake.
• A special Life Orb set with Burn Out / Heat Wave can be used.
• An Assault Vest set with potential offensive Arcanine with Snarl is potentially viable. 
• Morning Sun can be used for some recovery, though will be lower with opposing Weather aside sun. 
• Helping Hand is a unique support move on some Pokemon which boost the power if its allies by 50%.
• Safety Goggles is a decent item to prevent Arcanine from being put to sleep. 

---

Hopefully these doggo sets are good enough for you all to try out. Will be working on a couple Pokemon sets throughout this month as well. Hopefully everyone like to use more Aloe Vera Pupper on their teams!

VGC 17 Analysis: Gyarados

(VGC 2017) Gyarados - Physical Attacker - 3 Options

Jan 10th 2017

Deviant Art by ishmam

The Atrocious Pokemon, Gyarados returns to the VGC scene as one of the most threatening setup-based Water-type Pokemon in the format, and for good reason. Looking at its base stats, Gyarados has impressive bulk with 95 HP / 79 Def / 100 SpDef paired even with the Intimidate ability to reduce the physical damage output of opposing side. The highest notable stat is the base 125 Attack which allows Gyarados to hit incredibly hard with the combination of Waterfall, Ice Fang, Earthquake, or even Waterium Z Waterfall. With its Water/Flying-typing, Gyarados has some unique resistances to types such as Fire-, Fighting-, Bug-, Steel-, Water-, and most importantly one immunity to the ever common Ground-type. Factoring in all these traits, Gyarados can use its Dragon Dance setup-based move to raise both its attack and mediocre base 81 speed stats to frightening levels, even so can potentially punch holes in teams. If Gyarados manages to setup multiple Dragon Dances with sufficient attack, it can sweep opposing teams with little ease.

Gyarados might be a threatening part Water-type Pokemon with strong attributes going for it, but there are some rather notable weaknesses. Keep in mind, Gyarados is still notably weak to Rock- and the ever present Electric-types. Given both Water/Flying makes Gyarados quad weak to Electric-type attacks, this makes Gyarados a prime target to be electrocuted easily, especially with fast Electric-types such as Alolan Raichu, Xurkitree, or Tapu Koko. Storm Drain Pokemon, aka Gastrodon is a hard check to Gyarados as it prevents it from using its single-target Water-type attacks and renders it almost useless. Even so, key to Gyarados's strength lies in setting up Dragon Dances, as it can't pick up proper OHKOs.

Even so, Gyarados remains as one of strongest setup-based Pokemon in the VGC format at the moment. Gyarados has the potential to threaten common Pokemon such as Arcanine, Garchomp, Salamence, Pheromosa, Mudsdale, etc which all can severely weak to any of its physical attacks. An important thing to consider is Gyarados is one of the few Intimidate users with Ground-type immunity, so it can switch in on an opposing Ground-type attacks, and be used to pair with other Ground-types to spam Earthquake. Even so, Waterium Z paired with Waterfall is a devastating nuke option against any neutral target, especially if Gyarados manages to get a Dragon Dance up. In short, Gyarados is one of the strongest physical attackers in the vgc format with great typing, good defensive value, and potential sweeping potential.

---

Gyarados

Type: :water: :flying:
Base Stats: 95 HP / 125 Attack / 79 Defense /  65 Special Attack / 100 Special Defense / 81 Speed
Weaknesses:   :electric: x4  :rock: x2
Resistances: :bug: x0.5  :fighting: x0.5  :steel: x0.5  :fire: x0.5 :water: x0.5
Immunities: :ground:
Abilities: Intimidate - Drops the foe(s) Attack Stat by one stage.
Hidden Ability: Moxie - Raises the users attack stat by one stage every time it knock out a Pokemon, including its Ally.

---

Waterium Z Attacker

Gyarados @ Waterium Z
Ability: Intimidate
Level: 50
EVs: 52 HP / 196 Atk / 76 Def / 4 SpD / 180 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Waterfall
- Dragon Dance
- Ice Fang  / Earthquake / Taunt
- Protect

Milestones:
-OHKOs 252 HP Celesteela with a +1 Hydro Vortex.
-Enough speed to outspeed base 117 or Salazzle by one point.
-OHKOs Tapu Koko with +1 Earthquake
-Survives a Wild Charge from Adamant Arcanine. 

In regards to this Gyarados's moveset, it speaks for itself given it simple, yet effective use over the years. STAB Waterfall is Gyarados's "best" Water-type attack with a base 80 power and the potential 20% chance to flinch down opponents. Dragon Dance is the crux of any Gyarados set given how it raises the attack and speed stats of Gyarados by one stage each, making it a incredibly powerful physical sweeper. In terms of the coverage options, Ice Fang allows Gyarados to hit opposing Grass-, Dragon-, and Flying-type Pokemon such as Salamance, Garchomp, Tapu Bulu, etc relatively hard, especially when boosted. Earthquake is an alternative coverage option for opposing Electric- and Rock-type Pokemon such as Nihilego, Alolan Raichu, or Tapu Koko who all threaten Gyarados, but can't take a strong Ground-type hit. Taunt is listed down to allow Gyarados to prevent opposing setup options such as Trick Room. Lastly Protect can be used to scout for coverage or gain better positioning.

Here's a standard Gyarados build with a notably strong EV Spread which compensates some power and speed for a bit of bulk. At +1 Speed, this Gyarados should be fast enough to outspeed Salazzle by one point as well as anything below base 116 or below. Obviously the main goal of Dragon Dance Gyarados is to "setup" to how many Attack (and Speed) raises they can achieve to overwhelm the opponent with STAB Waterfall, Ice Fang / EQ Coverage, or even the Waterium Z. With the Intimidate ability to reduce the attack stat by one stage against both Pokemon, Gyarados can get multiple setup opportunities throughout against the opposing team, especially if they are physical attackers or mons without the proper coverage moves. Keep in mind this Gyarados can switch in well against resisted or neutral target who are physically-based, this will deplete its HP, therefore lose out in setup chances.

The idea of using Waterium Z is to have a powerful "nuke" option for the player to utilize, especially when Gyarados can setup with Dragon Dance. After a single boost, Hydro Vortex should be able to pick up the knock out on most, it not any neutral Pokemon on the field. To get an idea of how strong Gyarados an be with one Dragon Dance boost, here's a list of Damage Calcs below:


Offensive Calcs

[spoiler]

196+ Atk Waterfall

196+ Atk Gyarados Waterfall vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Arcanine: 168-200 (85.2 - 101.5%) -- 12.5% chance to OHKO
196+ Atk Gyarados Waterfall vs. 28 HP / 0 Def Krookodile: 168-200 (96.5 - 114.9%) -- 87.5% chance to OHKO
196+ Atk Gyarados Waterfall vs. 228 HP / 52 Def Gigalith: 108-128 (57.1 - 67.7%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
196+ Atk Gyarados Waterfall vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Mudsdale: 140-168 (67.6 - 81.1%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
196+ Atk Gyarados Waterfall vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Ninetales-Alola: 90-106 (60.4 - 71.1%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

+1 196+ Atk Waterfall

+1 196+ Atk Gyarados Waterfall vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Raichu-Alola: 180-213 (132.3 - 156.6%) -- guaranteed OHKO
+1 196+ Atk Gyarados Waterfall vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Tapu Lele: 133-157 (91.7 - 108.2%) -- 50% chance to OHKO
+1 196+ Atk Gyarados Waterfall vs. 180 HP / 0 Def Celesteela: 103-123 (52.8 - 63%) -- 99.6% chance to 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
+1 196+ Atk Gyarados Waterfall vs. 228 HP / 52 Def Gigalith: 162-192 (85.7 - 101.5%) -- 6.3% chance to OHKO
+1 196+ Atk Gyarados Waterfall vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Tapu Koko: 120-142 (82.1 - 97.2%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
+1 196+ Atk Gyarados Waterfall vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Arcanine: 254-300 (128.9 - 152.2%) -- guaranteed OHKO
+1 196+ Atk Gyarados Waterfall vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Marowak-Alola: 194-230 (116.1 - 137.7%) -- guaranteed OHKO
+1 196+ Atk Gyarados Waterfall vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Mudsdale: 212-252 (102.4 - 121.7%) -- guaranteed OHKO


+1 196+ Atk Z-Waterfall (Hydro Vortex)

+1 196+ Atk Gyarados Hydro Vortex (160 BP) vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Muk-Alola: 265-313 (125 - 147.6%) -- guaranteed OHKO
+1 196+ Atk Gyarados Hydro Vortex (160 BP) vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Celesteela: 204-240 (100 - 117.6%) -- guaranteed OHKO
+1 196+ Atk Gyarados Hydro Vortex (160 BP) vs. 236 HP / 12 Def Tapu Koko: 237-279 (135.4 - 159.4%) -- guaranteed OHKO
+1 196+ Atk Gyarados Hydro Vortex (160 BP) vs. 220 HP / 36 Def Metagross: 163-193 (89 - 105.4%) -- 37.5% chance to OHKO
+1 196+ Atk Gyarados Hydro Vortex (160 BP) vs. +1 4 HP / 0 Def Porygon-Z: 187-222 (116.1 - 137.8%) -- guaranteed OHKO
+1 196+ Atk Gyarados Hydro Vortex (160 BP) vs. 68 HP / 188 Def Snorlax: 231-273 (94.6 - 111.8%) -- 68.8% chance to OHKO
+1 196+ Atk Gyarados Hydro Vortex (160 BP) vs. 252 HP / 140 Def Oranguru: 214-253 (108.6 - 128.4%) -- guaranteed OHKO
+1 196+ Atk Gyarados Hydro Vortex (160 BP) vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Garchomp: 220-259 (120.2 - 141.5%) -- guaranteed OHKO
+1 196+ Atk Gyarados Hydro Vortex (160 BP) vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Magnezone: 187-222 (105.6 - 125.4%) -- guaranteed OHKO

+1 196+ Atk Earthquake 

116+ Atk Metagross Earthquake vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Raichu-Alola: 150-178 (110.2 - 130.8%) -- guaranteed OHKO
116+ Atk Metagross Earthquake vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Arcanine: 106-126 (53.8 - 63.9%) -- 5.5% chance to 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
116+ Atk Metagross Earthquake vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Nihilego: 316-372 (170.8 - 201%) -- guaranteed OHKO
116+ Atk Metagross Earthquake vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Tapu Koko in Electric Terrain: 102-120 (69.8 - 82.1%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
116+ Atk Metagross Hammer Arm vs. 252 HP / 156 Def Eviolite Porygon2: 74-88 (38.5 - 45.8%) -- guaranteed 3HKO
116+ Atk Metagross Hammer Arm vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Snorlax: 166-196 (62.1 - 73.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

+1 196+ Atk Ice Fang

+1 196+ Atk Gyarados Ice Fang vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Garchomp: 240-284 (131.1 - 155.1%) -- guaranteed OHKO
+1 196+ Atk Gyarados Ice Fang vs. 188 HP / 164 Def Goodra: 124-148 (65.6 - 78.3%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
196+ Atk Gyarados Ice Fang vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Salamence: 184-220 (107.6 - 128.6%) -- guaranteed OHKO
+1 196+ Atk Gyarados Ice Fang vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Tapu Bulu: 102-120 (57.6 - 67.7%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Grassy Terrain recovery


[/spoiler]

Defensive Calcs
[spoiler]

Physical Defense (with Intimidate)

-1 252+ Atk Arcanine Wild Charge vs. 52 HP / 76 Def Gyarados: 148-176 (83.6 - 99.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
-1 252+ Atk Water Bubble Araquanid Liquidation vs. 52 HP / 76 Def Gyarados: 39-47 (22 - 26.5%) -- 15% chance to 4HKO
-1 252+ Atk Muk-Alola Poison Jab vs. 52 HP / 76 Def Gyarados: 48-57 (27.1 - 32.2%) -- guaranteed 4HKO
-1 252 Atk Garchomp Rock Slide vs. 52 HP / 76 Def Gyarados: 46-56 (25.9 - 31.6%) -- guaranteed 4HKO
-1 252+ Atk Pheromosa High Jump Kick vs. 52 HP / 76 Def Gyarados: 46-55 (25.9 - 31%) -- guaranteed 4HKO
-1 252 Atk Kartana Leaf Blade vs. 52 HP / 76 Def Gyarados: 73-87 (41.2 - 49.1%) -- guaranteed 3HKO
-1 252+ Atk Meadow Plate Tapu Bulu Wood Hammer vs. 52 HP / 76 Def Gyarados in Grassy Terrain: 150-177 (84.7 - 100%) -- 6.3% chance to OHKO
-1 252+ Atk Snorlax Return vs. 52 HP / 76 Def Gyarados: 63-75 (35.5 - 42.3%) -- guaranteed 3HKO
-1 252+ Atk Guts Hariyama Close Combat vs. 52 HP / 76 Def Gyarados: 59-69 (33.3 - 38.9%) -- guaranteed 3HKO

Special Defense

28 SpA Porygon2 Thunderbolt vs. 52 HP / 4 SpD Gyarados: 148-176 (83.6 - 99.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 SpA Nihilego Power Gem vs. 52 HP / 4 SpD Gyarados: 134-162 (75.7 - 91.5%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Draco Meteor vs. 52 HP / 4 SpD Gyarados: 147-174 (83 - 98.3%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 52 HP / 4 SpD Gyarados in Psychic Terrain: 149-177 (84.1 - 100%) -- 6.3% chance to OHKO
252 SpA Gengar Sludge Bomb vs. 52 HP / 4 SpD Gyarados: 76-91 (42.9 - 51.4%) -- 6.3% chance to 2HKO
164+ SpA Choice Specs Tapu Fini Moonblast vs. 52 HP / 4 SpD Gyarados: 100-118 (56.4 - 66.6%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

[/spoiler]

---

Support

 

Gyarados @ Sitrus Berry
Ability: Intimidate
Level: 50
EVs: 252 HP / 180 Def / 76 SpD
Careful Nature
- Waterfall
- Taunt
- Roar / Thunder Wave
- Protect

This Gyarados set is meant to be a support-based Pokemon thanks to its rather interesting coverage options to stop certain setup-based strategies. To explain some of its movepool, Waterfall is listed down for general STAB purposes and as Gyarados's best STAB. Taunt is a great support move as it can disrupt any potential setup-bases strategies used by the opponent. Roar is a rather interesting option to have on a Doubles-based team, though it allows Gyarados to phaze out opposing targets for another Pokemon. The main use of Roar is to prevent the opposing Trick Room setup, or phaze out any Pokemon who has too many stat boosts. Aside Protect, Thunder Wave is a decent speed control option given it can paralyze opposing Pokemon with their speed being reduced to half. 

Offensive Calcs:
[spoiler]

Waterfall 

0 Atk Gyarados Waterfall vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Arcanine: 134-158 (68 - 80.2%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
0 Atk Gyarados Waterfall vs. 28 HP / 0 Def Krookodile: 134-158 (77 - 90.8%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
0 Atk Gyarados Waterfall vs. 228 HP / 52 Def Gigalith: 84-102 (44.4 - 53.9%) -- 23.4% chance to 2HKO
0 Atk Gyarados Waterfall vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Talonflame: 146-174 (94.8 - 112.9%) -- 68.8% chance to OHKO
0 Atk Gyarados Waterfall vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Aerodactyl: 156-186 (100 - 119.2%) -- guaranteed OHKO


[/spoiler]


Defensive Calcs

[spoiler]

Physical Defense

-1 252+ Atk Tapu Bulu Wood Hammer vs. 252 HP / 180 Def Gyarados in Grassy Terrain: 111-132 (54.9 - 65.3%) -- 16.8% chance to 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
-1 252 Atk Kartana Leaf Blade vs. 252 HP / 180 Def Gyarados: 66-78 (32.6 - 38.6%) -- guaranteed 4HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
-1 252+ Atk Pheromosa High Jump Kick vs. 252 HP / 180 Def Gyarados: 42-49 (20.7 - 24.2%) -- guaranteed 6HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
-1 252 Atk Garchomp Rock Slide vs. 252 HP / 180 Def Gyarados: 42-50 (20.7 - 24.7%) -- guaranteed 6HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
-1 252+ Atk Thick Club Marowak-Alola Shadow Bone vs. 252 HP / 180 Def Gyarados: 76-90 (37.6 - 44.5%) -- 28.4% chance to 3HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
-1 252+ Atk Snorlax Return vs. 252 HP / 180 Def Gyarados: 57-67 (28.2 - 33.1%) -- 20.5% chance to 4HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
-1 252+ Atk Life Orb Arcanine Wild Charge vs. 252 HP / 180 Def Gyarados: 177-208 (87.6 - 102.9%) -- 18.8% chance to OHKO
-1 252 Atk Aerodactyl Rock Slide vs. 252 HP / 180 Def Gyarados: 54-66 (26.7 - 32.6%) -- 1.2% chance to 4HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery


Special Defense 

252+ SpA Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 252 HP / 76+ SpD Gyarados in Psychic Terrain: 108-127 (53.4 - 62.8%) -- 1.6% chance to 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
28 SpA Porygon2 Thunderbolt vs. 252 HP / 76+ SpD Gyarados: 124-148 (61.3 - 73.2%) -- 98.4% chance to 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
252 SpA Life Orb Nihilego Power Gem vs. 252 HP / 76+ SpD Gyarados: 151-179 (74.7 - 88.6%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
252 SpA Ninetales-Alola Freeze-Dry vs. 252 HP / 76+ SpD Gyarados: 148-180 (73.2 - 89.1%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after hail damage and Sitrus Berry recovery
+2 20 SpA Milotic Ice Beam vs. 252 HP / 76+ SpD Gyarados: 59-70 (29.2 - 34.6%) -- 80.4% chance to 4HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
252 SpA Salamence Devastating Drake (195 BP) vs. 252 HP / 76+ SpD Gyarados: 126-148 (62.3 - 73.2%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery

[/spoiler]

---

Choice Scarf

Gyarados @ Choice Scarf
Ability: Intimidate
Level: 50
EVs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Waterfall
- Ice Fang
- Flamethrower
- Earthquake

Milestones:

-Outspeeds +1 base 80 Pokemon.
- Flamethrower can OHKO most non-Specially Defensive Kartana

Sounds weird running a "Scarf" Gyarados with the potential for setup, however lets elaborate about this set. Gyarados already has a base attack of 125 and a rather "modest" speed value of 81, which won't necessarily outspeed most naturally fast Pokemon like Tapu Koko. With the Choice Scarf, Gyarados has enough speed to outspeed essentially most Pokemon in the format to get a quick damage or pick off Pokemon who are fairly weaken from the battle. Waterfall is Gyarados standard STAB choice to hit Fire-, Ground-, Rock-, and most frail Pokemon rather hard. Ice Fang and Earthquake give Gyarados some coverage options against opposing Grass-, Electric-, Flying-, and Dragon-type who aren't expect a fast coverage attack. Lastly, Flamethrower is a great tech option for opposing Kartana who aren't expecting a Fire-type coverage, though note AV or fully Specially Defensive variants can take the hit. In short, use this Gyarados as a way net quick OHKOs or pick off weaken Pokemon for the late game.  

Offensive Calcs:
[spoiler]

Jolly Waterfall

252 Atk Gyarados Waterfall vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Aerodactyl: 188-224 (120.5 - 143.5%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252 Atk Gyarados Waterfall vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Arcanine: 162-192 (82.2 - 97.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
252 Atk Gyarados Waterfall vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Tapu Koko: 76-91 (52 - 62.3%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 Atk Gyarados Waterfall vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Tapu Lele: 84-100 (57.9 - 68.9%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 Atk Gyarados Waterfall vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Talonflame: 176-210 (114.2 - 136.3%) -- guaranteed OHKO

Jolly Ice Fang

252 Atk Gyarados Ice Fang vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Salamence: 176-208 (102.9 - 121.6%) -- guaranteed OHKO
-1 252 Atk Gyarados Ice Fang vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Salamence: 116-140 (67.8 - 81.8%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 Atk Gyarados Ice Fang vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Garchomp: 156-184 (85.2 - 100.5%) -- 6.3% chance to OHKO
252 Atk Gyarados Ice Fang vs. 188 HP / 164 Def Goodra: 78-94 (41.2 - 49.7%) -- guaranteed 3HKO


Jolly Earthquake

252 Atk Gyarados Earthquake vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Tapu Koko in Electric Terrain: 96-114 (65.7 - 78%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 Atk Gyarados Earthquake vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Xurkitree: 110-130 (69.1 - 81.7%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 Atk Gyarados Earthquake vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Raichu-Alola: 144-170 (105.8 - 125%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252 Atk Gyarados Earthquake vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Magnezone: 148-176 (83.6 - 99.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

Jolly Flamethrower

0- SpA Gyarados Flamethrower vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Kartana: 192-228 (142.2 - 168.8%) -- guaranteed OHKO
0- SpA Gyarados Flamethrower vs. 84 HP / 164 SpD Assault Vest Kartana: 92-112 (63.4 - 77.2%) -- guaranteed 2HKO


[/spoiler]

---

Potential Teammates include, but aren't limited to:

• Ground-Types - Though self explanatory, a Ground-type partners is perhaps one of the Gyarados user's biggest needs given 1) they handly both the Water/Flying-type's Electric- and Rock-type weakness, and 2) allow Ground-types to freely spam STAB Earthquake given Gyarados's part Flying-type. Such examples of Ground-type Pokemon include Garchomp, Krookodile, Mudsdale, etc. 
• Electric-Types - One problematic type Gyarados has to deal with are opposing Water-type Pokemon who are fairly defensive enough to take a hit. Electric-type Pokemon such as Tapu Koko, Alolan Raichu, Xurkitree, etc are good partners to beat most Water pokemon in the format. In additon, Gyarados can threaten opposing Ground- or Dragon-types (with Ice Fang) given its coverage, Intimidate ability, and high attack stat. 
• Fire-Types - Grass-type Pokemon with moderately high defenses (Tapu Bulu, Kartana) are capable of potentially shutting down most Gyarados before they can do their setup or support. In that case, Fire-types such as Arcanine, Alolan Marowak, Talonflame, Incineroar, etc are able to threaten most Grass-types (and forgot Ice-types with Freeze Dry) with a powerful STAB hits.
• Grass-Types - Since most Water-, Rock-, and Electric-type Pokemon are probematic for Gyarados to handle both and offensive and defensive standpoint, having a Grass Pokemon can partner well with Gyarados. Grass-types like Tapu Bulu, Kartana, Dhelmise, etc are able not only threaten opposing Water-, and Rock-type Pokemon with their heavy STAB options, but can take a resisted Electric attack well for Gyarados. 
• Lightening Rod Support - With the rise of strong Electric-Type Pokemon such as Tapu Koko, Alolan Raichu, Xurkitree, etc there's been shift in using Pokemon with the Lightening Rod ability to cover Gyarados from hazerdous single-target Electric-type attacks. (Ex. Alolan Marowak, Togedemaru, etc) 
• "Frail" Pokemon who Need Intimidate Support - To elaborate further, there are many Pokemon with low HP / Defense stats who can't invest highly into those stats for the sake of optimal power. Such Pokemon like Tapu Lele, Tapu Koko, Kartana, Alolan Raichu, Alolan Marowak, etc love to have Intimidate support so they can take at least one potential strong or super effective physical hit. 

Threats include, but aren't limited to:

• Electric-types - Alolan Raichu, Tapu Koko, Xurkitree, Magnezone, Lanturn, Vikabolt, Oricorio-Electric, 
• Rock-types - Gigalith, Nihilego, Alolan Golem, Aerodactly, etc
• Storm Drain Pokemon - Gastrodon, Lumineon
• Intimidate Spam - Salamence, Arcanine, Krookodile, etc
• Competitive / Defiant Users - Milotic, Braviary, etc 
• Pokemon with Electric-type Coverage. 
• Burn Status

Other Notable Options

• Type-Reducing Berries such as the Wacan and Charti Berry can help Gyarados take a super effective hit.
• Leftovers can help Gyarados gradually replenish about 6.25% of its HP every turn.  
• Lum Berry can prevent any Status conditions inflicted on Gyarados.
• Rocky Helmet can be used to help deal residual damage against Pokemon who make contact with Gyarados. 
• Life Orb increases the damage output for Gyarados by 1.3x, though in exchanges loses 10% of its HP total.

---

Will have another Pokemon writeup this week so cya.

VGC 17 Analysis: Metagross

(VGC 2017) Metagross - Physical Attacker Movesets

Dec 31th 2016

Deviant Art by supersleuth10

Metagross has certainly had its up and downs over the years though this VGC 17 format seems promising to make it return to its former glory. While being rather slow, Metagross is one of the most bulky offensive Pokemon  with a defensive BST of 80 HP, 130 Defense, 90 Special Defense, and an Attack stat of 135. With its Steel/Psychic pairing, Metagross has nine overall resistances and one immunity to poison making it capable of checking certain threats on the field. Coverage-wise,  Metgross can still pack a punch against opposing Pokemon with the combination of Steel-, Psychic-, Ground-, and Fighting type moves to hit most relevant Pokemon with at least neutrally. With the Clear Body ability, Pokemon with the Intimidate ability can't drop Metagross rather high base 135 attack stat and will always hit rather for notable damage. Though most Metagross sets encompass the same movesets at times, they all function unique and independent usually taking advantage of Metagross offensive potential or bulk.

What makes Metagross threatening in this format compared to previous years is the introduction to a new partner: Tapu Lele. Thanks to the Psychic Terrain, Metagross receives a 50% increase to all its Psychic-based attacks and can threaten opposing targets for heavy damage. In return, Metagross serves as an excellent partner to Tapu Lele for handling opposing Fairy-types or the Tapus who attempt to gain Terrain advantage. The damage output from both Zen Headbutt and the potential Shatter Psyche makes Metagross an incredible threat to consider when facing one in Psychic Terrain. Keep in mind Metagross is rather slow enough to abuse a potential Trick Room option to allow it to "outspeed" faster threats and potentially overwhelm the opposing side.

Even with most of these traits, Metagross has some notable flaws going against it. Since Gen 6, Metagross received two extra weaknesses in Dark-, and Ghost-type alongside the rather common Ground- and Fire-types making it more easier to target down with super effective attacks. Recall Metagross is a rather slow Pokemon with a base 70 speed so chances are it will get hit first before it can retaliate. Though not considerably a weakness, most of Metagross main attacks such as Meteor Mash, Zen Headbutt, or Hammer Arm are all 90% accurate making its rather inconsistent when it comes to connecting attacks. Even so, Metagross is definite a strong Steel type to consider in battle and can carry the weight of its teammates in battle.

---

Metagross

Type: :steel: :psychic:
Base Stats: 80 HP / 135 Attack / 130 Defense /  95 Special Attack / 90 Special Defense / 70 Speed
Weaknesses:    :fire: x2  :ground:  x2 :dark: x2   :ghost: x2
Resistances: :psychic:  x0.25  :dragon:  x0.5 :fairy:  x0.5  :steel:  x0.5 :ice:  x0.5 :rock:  x0.5  :normal: x0.5 :grass: x0.5  :flying: x0.5
Immunities: :poison:
Abilities:  Clear Body - Prevents Stat Changes except from the User
Hidden Ability: Light Metal - Halves the User's Weight 

---

Psychium Z

Metagross @ Psychium Z
Ability: Clear Body
Level: 50
EVs: 252 HP / 116 Atk / 36 Def / 12 SpD / 92 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Meteor Mash
- Zen Headbutt
- Earthquake / Hammer Arm
- Protect

Milestones:
- Z-Move Shattered Psyche under Psychic Terrain can OHKO many common threats if used sucessfully.

Here we have the Psychium Z Metagross set with a standard three attacks options. In retrospects, Metagross is a rather simple Pokemon to use in terms of movepool, though most of the attacks listed do have specific intentions. STAB Meteor Mash allows Metagross to hit opposing Fairy-, Rock-, and Ice-type Pokemon such as Alolan Ninetales, Gigalith, Tapu Lele, etc for heavy damage with the chance to rais the attack stat by one stage. Zen Headbutt is another STAB option that's now potentially "stronger" in due part of the presense of Tapu Lele's ability to summon Psychic Terrain. Under the field condition, Zen Headbutt hits a 120 Base Power which can do some a considerable damage against opposing Pokemon, though not enough for the OHKO. The last two slots are between Earthquake or Hammer Arm which both have their merits. Earthquake allows Metagross to his opposing Electric-, Fire-, and Steel-types for super effective damage meanwhile Hammer Arm hits opposing Normal-types like Snorlax and Porygon2 hard.

One of Metagross's best selling points is to use the Psychium Z item in conjunction with Clear Body and the Psychic Terrain. Under the field condition, Z-Zen Headbutt, or Shattered Psyche reaches a base power of 240 before STAB, making this one of the strongest Z-attacks in the format. Given how Metagross has a base attack of 130 and an ability which prevent stat drops, a Shattered Psyche from this Pokemon will hurt even the bulkiest of walls. In order to achieve this feat, make sure to pair Metagross with Tapu Lele to summon the Psychic Terrain. Even so, Tapu Lele is a great partner to pair with Metagross as it covers it Dark type weakness while form part of a Steel-Dragon-Fairy core. The speed investment listed allows Metagross to outspeed neutral base 80s, though more can be added if chosen.

Offensive Calcs
[spoiler]

116+ Atk Meteor Mash

116+ Atk Metagross Meteor Mash vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Tapu Bulu: 140-168 (79 - 94.9%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
116+ Atk Metagross Meteor Mash vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Tapu Lele: 200-236 (112.9 - 133.3%) -- guaranteed OHKO
116+ Atk Metagross Meteor Mash vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Gigalith: 128-152 (66.6 - 79.1%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
116+ Atk Metagross Meteor Mash vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Nihilego: 284-336 (153.5 - 181.6%) -- guaranteed OHKO
116+ Atk Metagross Meteor Mash vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Mimikyu: 188-224 (116 - 138.2%) -- guaranteed OHKO


116+ Atk Zen Headbutt

116+ Atk Metagross Zen Headbutt vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Salazzle: 212-252 (147.2 - 175%) -- guaranteed OHKO
116+ Atk Metagross Zen Headbutt vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Gengar: 212-252 (157 - 186.6%) -- guaranteed OHKO
116+ Atk Metagross Zen Headbutt vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Hariyama: 212-252 (84.4 - 100.3%) -- 6.3% chance to OHKO
116+ Atk Metagross Zen Headbutt vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Pheromosa: 296-350 (202.7 - 239.7%) -- guaranteed OHKO
116+ Atk Metagross Zen Headbutt vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Nihilego: 254-300 (137.2 - 162.1%) -- guaranteed OHKO


116+ Atk Shattered Psyche in Psychic Terrain

116+ Atk Metagross Shattered Psyche (160 BP) vs. 252 HP / 156 Def Eviolite Porygon2 in Psychic Terrain: 130-154 (67.7 - 80.2%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
116+ Atk Metagross Shattered Psyche (160 BP) vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Politoed in Psychic Terrain: 183-216 (92.8 - 109.6%) -- 56.3% chance to OHKO
116+ Atk Metagross Shattered Psyche (160 BP) vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Garchomp in Psychic Terrain: 220-261 (120.2 - 142.6%) -- guaranteed OHKO
116+ Atk Metagross Shattered Psyche (160 BP) vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Tapu Koko in Psychic Terrain: 241-285 (165 - 195.2%) -- guaranteed OHKO
116+ Atk Metagross Shattered Psyche (160 BP) vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Mudsdale in Psychic Terrain: 211-249 (101.9 - 120.2%) -- guaranteed OHKO
116+ Atk Metagross Shattered Psyche (160 BP) vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Salamence in Psychic Terrain: 253-298 (147.9 - 174.2%) -- guaranteed OHKO
116+ Atk Metagross Shattered Psyche (160 BP) vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Tapu Fini in Psychic Terrain: 186-220 (105 - 124.2%) -- guaranteed OHKO
116+ Atk Metagross Shattered Psyche (160 BP) vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Araquanid in Psychic Terrain: 225-265 (128.5 - 151.4%) -- guaranteed OHKO
116+ Atk Metagross Shattered Psyche (160 BP) vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Arcanine in Psychic Terrain: 253-298 (128.4 - 151.2%) -- guaranteed OHKO
116+ Atk Metagross Shattered Psyche (160 BP) vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Gyarados in Psychic Terrain: 255-301 (150 - 177%) -- guaranteed OHKO
116+ Atk Metagross Shattered Psyche (160 BP) vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Marowak-Alola in Psychic Terrain: 195-229 (116.7 - 137.1%) -- guaranteed OHKO


116+ Atk Earthquake / Hammer Arm 

116+ Atk Metagross Earthquake vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Raichu-Alola: 150-178 (110.2 - 130.8%) -- guaranteed OHKO
116+ Atk Metagross Earthquake vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Arcanine: 106-126 (53.8 - 63.9%) -- 5.5% chance to 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
116+ Atk Metagross Earthquake vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Nihilego: 316-372 (170.8 - 201%) -- guaranteed OHKO
116+ Atk Metagross Earthquake vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Tapu Koko in Electric Terrain: 102-120 (69.8 - 82.1%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
116+ Atk Metagross Hammer Arm vs. 252 HP / 156 Def Eviolite Porygon2: 74-88 (38.5 - 45.8%) -- guaranteed 3HKO
116+ Atk Metagross Hammer Arm vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Snorlax: 166-196 (62.1 - 73.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

[/spoiler]

Defensive Calcs
[spoiler]

Physical Defense

252 Atk Garchomp Earthquake vs. 252 HP / 36 Def Metagross: 102-120 (54.5 - 64.1%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252+ Atk Gyarados Hydro Vortex (160 BP) vs. 252 HP / 36 Def Metagross: 114-135 (60.9 - 72.1%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252+ Atk Arcanine Flare Blitz vs. 252 HP / 36 Def Metagross: 156-186 (83.4 - 99.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252+ Atk Mimikyu Never-Ending Nightmare (140 BP) vs. 252 HP / 36 Def Metagross: 158-188 (84.4 - 100.5%) -- 6.3% chance to OHKO
252 Atk Kartana Night Slash vs. 252 HP / 36 Def Metagross: 80-96 (42.7 - 51.3%) -- 5.1% chance to 2HKO
252+ Atk Meadow Plate Tapu Bulu Wood Hammer vs. 252 HP / 36 Def Metagross in Grassy Terrain: 78-93 (41.7 - 49.7%) -- guaranteed 3HKO after Grassy Terrain recovery


Special Defense


252 SpA Salazzle Flamethrower vs. 252 HP / 12 SpD Metagross: 150-176 (80.2 - 94.1%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 SpA Gengar Shadow Ball vs. 252 HP / 12 SpD Metagross: 150-176 (80.2 - 94.1%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Koko Thunderbolt vs. 252 HP / 12 SpD Metagross in Electric Terrain: 130-153 (69.5 - 81.8%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252+ SpA Tapu Lele Shattered Psyche (175 BP) vs. 252 HP / 12 SpD Metagross in Psychic Terrain: 66-78 (35.2 - 41.7%) -- guaranteed 3HKO
252+ SpA Choice Specs Tapu Fini Scald vs. 252 HP / 12 SpD Metagross: 97-115 (51.8 - 61.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252+ SpA Pelipper Scald vs. 252 HP / 12 SpD Metagross in Rain: 99-117 (52.9 - 62.5%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

[/spoiler]

---

Assault Vest 

Metagross @ Assault Vest
Ability: Clear Body
Level: 50
EVs: 252 HP / 116 Atk / 36 Def / 92 SpD / 12 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Meteor Mash
- Zen Headbutt
- Earthquake
- Bullet Punch

Milestones:
-Same Offensive Achievements
-AV to take Special Attacks Better

This Metagross set is built towards takes more specially-based hits while dish out damage against the opposing side. One of the most common and threatening special attackers in the VGC 17 format is Tapu Lele thanks to its Psychic Terrain-boosted STABs which can 2HKO, or potentially OHKO any target. With the Assault Vest and the double resistance to Psychic STAB, Assault Vest Metagross makes for one of the best Tapu Lele responses. In addition, Metagross can survive a number of specially-based Z move attacks such as the Hydro Vortex in the Rain from Duck, an Eruption from Drought Torkoal, 2 Thunderbolts from Tapu Koko in Electric Terrain, and a host of other attacks. In terms of movepool, most of Metagross's attacks are largely unchange from the first set, except Bullet Punch is opted for priority. For a list of damage calculations with the Assault Vest, refer down below:

Offensive Calcs:
[spoiler]
Same as Above
[/spoiler]


Defensive Calcs

[spoiler]

Physical Defense

Same as Above

Special Defense (With Assault Vest) 

252+ SpA Golduck Hydro Vortex (185 BP) vs. 252 HP / 92 SpD Assault Vest Metagross: 93-109 (49.7 - 58.2%) -- 98.4% chance to 2HKO
252+ SpA Torkoal Eruption (150 BP) vs. 252 HP / 92 SpD Assault Vest Metagross in Sun: 158-188 (84.4 - 100.5%) -- 6.3% chance to OHKO
252+ SpA Choice Specs Tapu Fini Hydro Pump vs. 252 HP / 92 SpD Assault Vest Metagross: 82-97 (43.8 - 51.8%) -- 13.3% chance to 2HKO
252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Koko Thunderbolt vs. 252 HP / 92 SpD Assault Vest Metagross in Electric Terrain: 79-95 (42.2 - 50.8%) -- 3.5% chance to 2HKO
252+ SpA Xurkitree Thunderbolt vs. 252 HP / 92 SpD Assault Vest Metagross: 69-82 (36.8 - 43.8%) -- guaranteed 3HKO
252+ SpA Xurkitree Gigavolt Havoc (175 BP) vs. 252 HP / 92 SpD Assault Vest Metagross: 133-157 (71.1 - 83.9%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252+ SpA Arcanine Burn Up vs. 252 HP / 92 SpD Assault Vest Metagross: 134-162 (71.6 - 86.6%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 SpA Salamence Flamethrower vs. 252 HP / 92 SpD Assault Vest Metagross: 62-74 (33.1 - 39.5%) -- 99.8% chance to 3HKO
+2 188+ SpA Milotic Scald vs. 252 HP / 92 SpD Assault Vest Metagross: 78-93 (41.7 - 49.7%) -- guaranteed 3HKO

[/spoiler]

---

Choice Band

Metagross @ Choice Band
Ability: Clear Body
Level: 50
EVs: 220 HP / 252 Atk / 4 Def / 4 SpD / 28 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Meteor Mash
- Zen Headbutt
- Earthquake
- Bullet Punch / Hammer Arm

Milestones:

-Guaranteed OHKO against "frail" Tapu Koko, Alolan Raichu, and Xurkitree with CB Earthquake

- With Psychic Terrain, has a 15/16th chance to OHKO Garchomp with Zen Headbutt
-Can 2HKO most Pokemon with approriate attack.

With the base 135 attack stat, Metagross makes for a great Choice Band user who can essentially hit many targets its STAB and coverage options listed down. Choice Band Meteor Mash has essentially OHKO most Fairy-types in the format bar Tapu Fini, not to mention has a 20% chance to raise Metagross Attack further. As mentioned before, if Psychic Terrain is up, Zen Headbutt will deal further damage, and pairing it with the Choice Band can net some rather crazy OHKOs. Some examples of these offensive feats include Choice Band Psychic Terrain Zen Headbutt OHKOing Gyarados, Arcanine Salamence, and even 2HKOing most non fully defensive Porygon2. Unlike the previous two sets, Choice Band Earthquake is able net the OHKOs against many frail Electric, Poison, and some Fire-type Pokemon while dealing a decent chunk against opposing Steel-types. The last moveslot is Bullet Punch so Metagross can use to priority purposes, though remember that Psychic Terrain will render it useless, so use with caution. Hammer Arm can be used to hit opposing Normal-, Dark-, and Steel-types like Porygon2, Snorlax, Kartana, and etc.

The idea of using Choice Band Metagross is essentially to hit as hard as possible while maintain offensive pressure. One, if not Metagross best partners to pair is Tapu Lele as both receive an increase in STAB Psychic-type moves and can make a "Psychic Spam" team. If anyone does any of the damage calculations for Choice Band Zen Headbutt under Psychic Terrain, most are either 2HKOs dealing about least ~60% damage to almost, if not straight up OHKOs most of the neutral format. Note the Clear Body ability prevents any imposed stat changes, so any "Intimidate" shuffling won't work against Metagross, which will only hit just as consistently hard. The only notable thing to address with this Choice Band Metagross is to definitely consider what move it will "choice lock" itself into until Metagross either switches, gets the Choice Band removed, or faints.

The EV Spread listed on this set allows Metagross to hit as hard as possible with the Choice Band while outspeed neutral base 70s and potential speed creep mons. Some of the best partners to pair with Choice Band Metagross are predominately offensive Pokemon (Tapu Lele, Pelipper, Golduck, etc) or Trick Room setters (Porygon2, Mimikyum Oranguru, etc) to maintain offensive pressure and speed control prespectively. 

Offensive Calcs:
[spoiler]

Choice Band Meteor Mash

252+ Atk Choice Band Metagross Meteor Mash vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Tapu Bulu: 230-272 (129.9 - 153.6%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252+ Atk Choice Band Metagross Meteor Mash vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Tapu Koko: 148-175 (101.3 - 119.8%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252+ Atk Choice Band Metagross Meteor Mash vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Tapu Lele: 324-384 (183 - 216.9%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252+ Atk Choice Band Metagross Meteor Mash vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Tapu Fini: 115-136 (64.9 - 76.8%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252+ Atk Choice Band Metagross Meteor Mash vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Eviolite Clefairy: 188-224 (106.2 - 126.5%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252+ Atk Choice Band Metagross Meteor Mash vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Gigalith: 210-248 (109.3 - 129.1%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252+ Atk Choice Band Metagross Meteor Mash vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Ninetales-Alola: 652-772 (437.5 - 518.1%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252+ Atk Choice Band Metagross Meteor Mash vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Garchomp: 135-160 (73.7 - 87.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO


Choice Band Zen Headbutt in Psychic Terrain 

252+ Atk Choice Band Metagross Zen Headbutt vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Garchomp in Psychic Terrain: 180-213 (98.3 - 116.3%) -- 93.8% chance to OHKO
252+ Atk Choice Band Metagross Zen Headbutt vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Araquanid in Psychic Terrain: 184-217 (105.1 - 124%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252+ Atk Choice Band Metagross Zen Headbutt vs. 244 HP / 108+ Def Gastrodon in Psychic Terrain: 186-220 (85.7 - 101.3%) -- 12.5% chance to OHKO
252+ Atk Choice Band Metagross Zen Headbutt vs. 252 HP / 36 Def Arcanine in Psychic Terrain: 198-234 (100.5 - 118.7%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252+ Atk Choice Band Metagross Zen Headbutt vs. 52 HP / 76 Def Gyarados in Psychic Terrain: 192-226 (108.4 - 127.6%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252+ Atk Choice Band Metagross Zen Headbutt vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Marowak-Alola in Psychic Terrain: 160-189 (95.8 - 113.1%) -- 75% chance to OHKO
252+ Atk Choice Band Metagross Zen Headbutt vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Milotic in Psychic Terrain: 145-172 (71.7 - 85.1%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
252+ Atk Choice Band Metagross Zen Headbutt vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Tapu Fini in Psychic Terrain: 153-181 (86.4 - 102.2%) -- 18.8% chance to OHKO
252+ Atk Choice Band Metagross Zen Headbutt vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Salamence in Psychic Terrain: 210-247 (122.8 - 144.4%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252+ Atk Choice Band Metagross Zen Headbutt vs. 252 HP / 156 Def Eviolite Porygon2 in Psychic Terrain: 108-127 (56.2 - 66.1%) -- guaranteed 2HKO


Choice Band Earthquake

252+ Atk Choice Band Metagross Earthquake vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Tapu Koko in Electric Terrain: 164-194 (112.3 - 132.8%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252+ Atk Choice Band Metagross Earthquake vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Xurkitree: 190-224 (119.4 - 140.8%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252+ Atk Choice Band Metagross Earthquake vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Raichu-Alola: 246-290 (180.8 - 213.2%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252+ Atk Choice Band Metagross Earthquake vs. 252 HP / 36 Def Arcanine: 164-194 (83.2 - 98.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
252+ Atk Choice Band Metagross Earthquake vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Nihilego: 516-608 (278.9 - 328.6%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252+ Atk Choice Band Metagross Earthquake vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Magnezone: 256-304 (144.6 - 171.7%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252+ Atk Choice Band Metagross Earthquake vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Metagross: 116-138 (62 - 73.7%) -- guaranteed 2HKO


Choice Band Hammer Arm

252+ Atk Choice Band Metagross Hammer Arm vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Incineroar: 208-246 (102.9 - 121.7%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252+ Atk Choice Band Metagross Hammer Arm vs. 252 HP / 156 Def Eviolite Porygon2: 120-142 (62.5 - 73.9%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252+ Atk Choice Band Metagross Hammer Arm vs. 68 HP / 252 Def Snorlax: 198-234 (81.1 - 95.9%) -- guaranteed 2HKO


[/spoiler]

---

Potential Teammates include, but aren't limited to:

• Water Types - Two of Metagross's notable weakness as of late have been both the Fire- and Ground-types and can chunk, if not OHKO Metagross with their STAB moves. Water-type Pokemon not only threaten both of these types, but exclusive rain-based teams can reduce the Fire-type damage output. (Ex. Pelipper, Milotic, Politoed, Aranaquid, Gastrodon, Gyrados, etc ). 
• Fairy-Types  - With the recent introduction and prevalence of Poison-types and respective coverage moves, Metagross takes no damage and can threaten them with a STAB Psychic STAB. In turn, Fairy-type Pokemon can deal with opposing Dark-types who can check Metagross. (Ex. Tapus, Mimikyu)
• Dragon-Types - Some Dragon-type Pokemon such as Salamence or Garchomp offer Metagross unique defensive synergy against some neutral types while cover for Fairy-types. (EX. Salamence, Garchomp, Goodra, Dragonite, etc)
• Intimidate Support - Helps with Metagross's Defensive bulk and do offer some unique  defensive type synergy. (Ex. Salamence, Arcanine, Krookodile, Gyarados, Granbull, etc )
• Tapu Lele - Exclusive partner to Metagross who can boost the power of STAB Psychic moves by 50% while Metagross can take opposing Steel- and Poison-types.

Threats include, but aren't limited to:

• Fire-types - Arcanine, Alolan Marowak, Salazzle, Incineroar, Talonflame, etc
• Ground-types - Garchomp, Krookodile, Mudsdale, Gastrodon, etc
• Ghost-types - Gengar, Dhelmise, Sableye, Mimikyu, etc
• Dark-types - Alolan Muk, Krookodile, Incineroar, Alolan Persian, etc. 
• Powerful Special hits if not Assault Vest.
• Burn Status

Other Notable Options

• Type-Reducing Berries are useful to cover against Metagross weakness ( Occa, Shuca, Colbur, and Kasib Berry)
• Weakness Policy can increase Metagross attack stats by +2 if hit by a super effective attack. 
• Air Balloon can give Metagross a Pseudo Ground-type immunity. 

---

Might be the last Pokemon Analysis of this year on my end (literally is), though there will be many... many more to follow in the future so stay tune. Either way, have a great day!

VGC 17 Analysis: Milotic

[VGC 2017] Milotic ( Defensive / Offensive ) Movesets


Dec 22 2016

Deviant Art by all0412

Milotic is one of the bulkiest Water-type Pokemon found in the metagame with its roles as both a defensive pivot and Intimidate deter haven't changed much since the  transition to VGC 17. Based on its stat allocations, Milotic has a respectable 95 HP / 79 Defense / 125 Special Defense, making it one of the most defensively oriented Water-types in the game with access to recovery. Unless Milotic is double targeted or hit with essentially powerful Super Effective hits, chances are it will stick around throughout the battlefield to chip at its opposing team until its fainted. What makes Milotic a standout Water-type is the fact it has the ability Competitive that raises the Special Attack stat by two stages which is rather impressive. This makes Milotic one of the best counters to "Intimidate / Snarl users" given it has the bulk to take on most of them and retaliate with Scald or Ice Beam respectively.

Even so, note there are still some flaws with Milotic. For starters, base 100 Special Attack isn't strong enough to OHKO most things without the Competitive attack raise or significant investment. Perhaps the biggest issues with Milotic is the rise of strong Grass- and Electric-type Pokemon such as Tapu Bulu, Tapu Koko, and Kartana who all three can effectively OHKO Milotic with their Super Effective damage output. Lastly, the rise of defensive oriented team especially with Toxic status can slowly wear down Milotic progressively over the course of the matchup and hindering its walling capabilities.

In spite of these traits, Milotic need team support in general in order to function effectively as a bulky wall / pivot given its lack of offensive pressure without the Competitive boost. Milotic can effectively check most Fire-, Ground-, Rock-, and Dragon-type in due part most of the common offensive Pokemon seen in the VGC 17 format have high usages ( EX. Arcanine, Garchomp, Alolan Marowak, Salamence, etc).

---

Milotic

Type: :water:
Base Stats: 95 HP / 60 Attack / 79 Defense /  100 Special Attack / 125 Special Defense / 81 Speed
Weaknesses: :electric:  x2 :grass: x2
Resistances: :steel:  x0.5  :fire:  x0.5 :ice:  x0.5 :water:  x0.5
Immunities: None
Ability 1 - Marvel Scale  -  Raised the Defense stat by 50% when hit with a non-volatile status.
Ability 2: Competitve - Raise the Special Attack stat by 2 stage every time the user is inflicted with a negative stat modifier, but not to self.
Hidden Ability: Cute Charm - Has a chance to infatuate the target upon making contact.

---

Defensive

Milotic @ Sitrus Berry / Leftovers / Maranga Berry / "Terrain" Seeds
Ability: Competitive
Level: 50
EVs: 244 HP / 228 Def / 36 SpD
Bold Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Scald
- Ice Beam
- Recover
- Protect / Toxic

Milestones: 
- Survive Leaf Blade or Thunderbolt from Kartana / Xurkitree respectively
- OHKOs most Intimidate user with a +2 Competitive boosts (Ex. Arcanine, Krookodile, or Salamence)
- Survives Tectonic Rage (Groundium Z EQ) from Garchomp
-Modest Psychic from Tapu Lele is a 3HKO with Sitrus Berry.

Here's is a standard physically defensive Milotic intended to take on most of the strongest hits in the VGC 17 format. Scald is listed as a utility STAB to snag potential burns against physical attackers while make Milotic more difficult to take down. Ice Beam is strong enough to hit Pokemon like Garchomp, Salamence, Tapu Bulu, and other Pokemon hard though keep in mind some of these Pokemon won't necessary be OHKO without the Competitive boost. The last two move are a toss-up between Recover, Protect, or Toxic. To elaborate, Protect is useful to scout for attacks and potential gain Leftovers recovery. Recover is self-explanatory as it can virtually replenishes about 50% of Milotic's total health, which is amazing for longevity purposes. Toxic is a potential option to slash on either one of Milotic's attacks since this allows it to "stall" potential walls who are bulky such as Porygon2, Gastrodon, defensive Arcanine, or even opposing Milotics.

The item choice for defensive Milotic is entirely up to the player to select from. Sitrus Berry allow Milotic to replenish about 25% of its HP every time its health drops at half. If passive recovery is your strong suit, Leftovers will gradually replenish about 1/16th of Milotic's HP every turn. Maranga Berry is an interesting item selection which increase the Special Defense of Milotic every time it gets hit by a special attack. Considering Milotic has a naturally high special defense stat, the Maranga Berry can supplement this rather especially with recovery. Similar to Maranga Berry, Terrain Seeds can bolster either the Defense or Special Defense of a Pokemon depending on either its respective terrain. 

Offensive Calcs
[spoiler]

Scald

0 SpA Milotic Scald vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Arcanine: 110-132 (55.8 - 67%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
0 SpA Milotic Scald vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Marowak-Alola: 110-132 (65.8 - 79%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
+2 0 SpA Milotic Scald vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Arcanine: 218-258 (110.6 - 130.9%) -- guaranteed OHKO
0 SpA Milotic Scald vs. 252 HP / 8 SpD Gigalith in Sand: 72-86 (37.5 - 44.7%) -- 6.3% chance to 2HKO after Black Sludge damage
+2 0 SpA Milotic Scald vs. 28 HP / 0 SpD Krookodile: 240-284 (137.9 - 163.2%) -- guaranteed OHKO
0 SpA Milotic Scald vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Talonflame: 122-146 (79.2 - 94.8%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after sandstorm damage

Ice Beam

0 SpA Milotic Ice Beam vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Tapu Bulu: 72-86 (40.6 - 48.5%) -- guaranteed 3HKO after sandstorm damage and Grassy Terrain recovery
0 SpA Milotic Ice Beam vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Garchomp: 156-184 (85.2 - 100.5%) -- 6.3% chance to OHKO
+2 0 SpA Milotic Ice Beam vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Salamence: 328-388 (191.8 - 226.9%) -- guaranteed OHKO

[/spoiler]

Defensive Calcs
[spoiler]

Physical Defense

252 Atk Kartana Leaf Blade vs. 244 HP / 228+ Def Milotic: 168-200 (83.5 - 99.5%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
252 Atk Garchomp Earthquake vs. 244 HP / 228+ Def Milotic: 55-66 (27.3 - 32.8%) -- 6.1% chance to 4HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
252 Atk Garchomp Tectonic Rage (180 BP) vs. 244 HP / 228+ Def Milotic: 132-156 (65.6 - 77.6%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
252+ Atk Choice Band Arcanine Wild Charge vs. 244 HP / 228+ Def Milotic: 130-154 (64.6 - 76.6%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
252+ Atk Metagross Zen Headbutt vs. 244 HP / 228+ Def Milotic: 67-79 (33.3 - 39.3%) -- guaranteed 4HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
252+ Atk Metagross Shattered Psyche (160 BP) vs. 244 HP / 228+ Def Milotic: 133-157 (66.1 - 78.1%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
252 Atk Weavile Black Hole Eclipse (160 BP) vs. 244 HP / 228+ Def Milotic: 111-132 (55.2 - 65.6%) -- 18.4% chance to 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
252+ Atk Gigalith Continental Crush (180 BP) vs. 244 HP / 228+ Def Milotic: 148-175 (73.6 - 87%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
252+ Atk Pheromosa All-Out Pummeling (195 BP) vs. 244 HP / 228+ Def Milotic: 162-192 (80.5 - 95.5%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery


Special Defense

252 SpA Life Orb Nihilego Sludge Bomb vs. 244 HP / 36 SpD Milotic: 79-95 (39.3 - 47.2%) -- 93.4% chance to 3HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
252 SpA Life Orb Raichu-Alola Thunderbolt vs. 244 HP / 36 SpD Milotic: 133-156 (66.1 - 77.6%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
252+ SpA Magnezone Thunderbolt vs. 244 HP / 36 SpD Milotic: 134-162 (66.6 - 80.5%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
252 SpA Gengar Sludge Bomb vs. 244 HP / 36 SpD Milotic: 63-75 (31.3 - 37.3%) -- guaranteed 4HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
252+ SpA Torkoal Solar Beam vs. 244 HP / 36 SpD Milotic: 90-108 (44.7 - 53.7%) -- 9.8% chance to 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
252+ SpA Porygon2 Thunderbolt vs. 244 HP / 36 SpD Milotic: 78-94 (38.8 - 46.7%) -- 79.7% chance to 3HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
252 SpA Choice Specs Salamence Draco Meteor vs. 244 HP / 36 SpD Milotic: 118-141 (58.7 - 70.1%) -- 78.5% chance to 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
252+ SpA Goodra Draco Meteor vs. 244 HP / 36 SpD Milotic: 87-103 (43.2 - 51.2%) -- 2.3% chance to 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery

[/spoiler]

---

Special Attacker

Milotic @ Adrenaline Orb
Ability: Competitive
Level: 50
EVs: 116 HP / 4 Def / 236 SpA / 4 SpD / 148 Spe
Modest Nature
- Scald / Hydro Pump
- Ice Beam
- Hidden Power [Electric]  / Hidden Power [Grass] / Recover
- Protect

Milestones:
- Outspeeds base 110s after Adrenaline Orb boosts
-OHKOs Garchomp with Ice Beam
-Can take EQs from Garchomp
-OHKOs Gastrodon / Gyarados with either HP Grass / Electric after Competititve boost

This Milotic set takes advantage of the recent new item called the Adrelaline Orb, which has the in-battle effect of raising the Speed stat by one stage if "hit" by an Intimidate user. Given Milotic's main purpose is to deter Intimidate spam, if this already bulky Water-type gets the +2 in Special Attack and Speed stat, it has a good chance to sweep unprepared teams easily. Note EV Spread of this Milotic is heavily favored into the Special Attack (with Modest) and of course Speed to take advantage of the Adrenaline Orb boosts. If hit by an Intimidate, Milotic will reach an actual speed from 120 to 180 to outspeed all base 110s, and any potential "speed creep" mons at  that same speed tier. The choice of Water-type STAB is dependent on the player's choice as Hydro Pump deals more damage though can miss while Scald can potentially burn targets, but is weaker. Ice Beam here is listed to hit Grass-, Dragon-, and Flying-types for Super Effective damage with a greater chance to OHKO some of them with the heavy Special Attack investment. The last move is a toss up between HP Electric, HP Grass, and Recover based on certain matchups. If the team is rather weak to Gyarados, HP Electric can be opted to net some heavy damage, if not OHKO most variants. HP Grass is listed to ensure Milotic won't be walled by Gastrodon who can potentially Toxic Stall it down thanks to Storm Drain. The last option aside Protect is Recover to ensure Milotic can stick around throughout the matchup to maintain offensive pressure.

For a list of all potential offensive achievements Milotic can do at +2 Special Attack with its heavy Special Attack investments, here's a list down below:

Offensive Calcs:
[spoiler]

+2 Modest 236+ Scald 

+2 236+ SpA Milotic Scald vs. 252 HP / 252+ SpD Arcanine: 206-246 (104.5 - 124.8%) -- guaranteed OHKO
+2 236+ SpA Milotic Scald vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Magnezone: 135-159 (76.2 - 89.8%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
+2 236+ SpA Milotic Scald vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Kartana: 145-171 (107.4 - 126.6%) -- guaranteed OHKO
+2 236+ SpA Milotic Scald vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Ninetales-Alola: 124-147 (83.2 - 98.6%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
+2 236+ SpA Milotic Scald vs. 252 HP / 76+ SpD Eviolite Porygon2: 73-87 (38 - 45.3%) -- guaranteed 3HKO
+2 236+ SpA Milotic Scald vs. 0 HP / 0 SpD Tapu Lele: 111-132 (76.5 - 91%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
+2 236+ SpA Milotic Scald vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Tapu Koko: 157-186 (107.5 - 127.3%) -- guaranteed OHKO
+2 236+ SpA Milotic Scald vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Metagross: 135-160 (72.1 - 85.5%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
+2 236+ SpA Milotic Scald vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Celesteela: 124-147 (60.7 - 72%) -- guaranteed 2HKO


+2 Modest 236+ Ice Beam

+2 236+ SpA Milotic Ice Beam vs. 0 HP / 0 SpD Pelipper: 124-147 (91.8 - 108.8%) -- 56.3% chance to OHKO
+2 236+ SpA Milotic Ice Beam vs. 0 HP / 0 SpD Kartana: 219-258 (163.4 - 192.5%) -- guaranteed OHKO
+2 236+ SpA Milotic Ice Beam vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Gyarados: 93-110 (54.7 - 64.7%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
+2 236+ SpA Milotic Ice Beam vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Salamence: 448-528 (261.9 - 308.7%) -- guaranteed OHKO
+2 236+ SpA Milotic Ice Beam vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Garchomp: 424-500 (231.6 - 273.2%) -- guaranteed OHKO
+2 236+ SpA Milotic Ice Beam vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Tapu Bulu: 194-230 (109.6 - 129.9%) -- guaranteed OHKO
+2 236+ SpA Milotic Ice Beam vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Assault Vest Dhelmise: 136-162 (76.8 - 91.5%) -- guaranteed 2HKO


+2 Modest 236+ HP Electric / Grass

+2 236+ SpA Milotic Hidden Power Electric vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Gyarados: 248-296 (145.8 - 174.1%) -- guaranteed OHKO
+2 236+ SpA Milotic Hidden Power Electric vs. 252 HP / 76+ SpD Politoed: 104-124 (52.7 - 62.9%) -- 1.2% chance to 2HKO after Sitrus Berry recovery
+2 236+ SpA Milotic Hidden Power Electric vs. 228 HP / 36 SpD Milotic: 102-120 (51.2 - 60.3%) -- 87.5% chance to 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
+2 236+ SpA Milotic Hidden Power Electric vs. 252 HP / 252+ SpD Pelipper: 224-268 (134.1 - 160.4%) -- guaranteed OHKO
+2 236+ SpA Milotic Hidden Power Electric vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Araquanid: 100-118 (57.1 - 67.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
+2 236+ SpA Milotic Hidden Power Grass vs. 244 HP / 88 SpD Gastrodon: 268-316 (123.5 - 145.6%) -- guaranteed OHKO

[/spoiler]

Defensive Calcs:

[spoiler]

252 Atk Garchomp Earthquake vs. 116 HP / 4 Def Milotic: 76-91 (41 - 49.1%) -- guaranteed 3HKO
252 SpA Life Orb Raichu-Alola Thunderbolt vs. 116 HP / 4 SpD Milotic: 133-159 (71.8 - 85.9%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252+ Atk Pheromosa High Jump Kick vs. 116 HP / 4 Def Milotic: 153-180 (82.7 - 97.2%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252+ SpA Choice Specs Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 116 HP / 4 SpD Milotic in Psychic Terrain: 157-186 (84.8 - 100.5%) -- 6.3% chance to OHKO


[/spoiler]

---

Potential Teammates include, but aren't limited to:

• Ground-types - Given how strong Electric-types are in this format with the advant of Tapu Koko, Milotic needs partners who are able to take on these threats sufficiently well. ( Ex. Garchomp, Mudsdale, Krookodile, etc ). 
• Fire-types - Similar to Elecctric-types this format, Grass-types such as Tapu Bulu and Kartana are extemely threatening for Milotic as they can potentially OHKO it with a Grassy Terrain boosted STAB. If anything, Fire-types are the best response to Grass given how they can either OHKO them with their STABs or use Will-O-Wisp to reduce their damage output. ( Ex. Arcanine, Talonflame, Salazzle, Alolan Marowak, Incineroar, etc ).
• Grass-types - Note two of arguably the best Grass-types in the format (both Tapu Bulu and Kartana) happen to be physical attacks who can easily overpower opposing Water-types who can stand in Milotic's way. ( Ex. Tapu Bulu, Kartana, Dhelmise, Trevenant, etc ).
• Dragon-types - Most Dragon-types in the format have resistances to either Grass-, or Electric-types in general and can be used as a buffer switch in for Milotic. (Ex. Dragonite, Garchomp, Salamence, Drampa, Goodra, etc)
• Intimidate Support - Though Milotic has respectable bulk, Pokemon with the Intimidate ability can lower the opposing target's attack stats. This support can Milotic to stick around throughout the matchup ( Ex. Arcanine, Salamence, Krookodile, etc ). 
• Physical Attackers - Note that Milotic has the "Competitive" ability which raises its Special Attack by +2 every time an Intimidate user (or and reduced stat changes) occurs. Try to pair Milotic with potential setup or high attack stats like Kartana, Garchomp, Flygon, Tapu Bulu, etc so pressure the opponent with either +2 Milotic, or a strong physical attacker. 

Threats include, but aren't limited to:

• Electric-types - Tapu Koko, Alolan Raichu, Xurkitree, Magnezone, etc
• Grass-types - Tapu Bulu, Dhelmise, Whimiscott, Trevenant, etc
• Pokemon with Water-Immune Abilities (Storm Drain and Water Absorb): Gastrodon, Lanturn, Vaporeon, Lapras, 
• Pokemon with "high" Special Defense: Tapu Fini, Snorlax, Porygon2, etc
• Toxic Status 
• Strong Physical attackers

Other Notable Options

• Type-Reducing Berries such as Wacan or Rindo Berry can help Milotic take one strong hit. 
• Choice Scarf allow Milotic to immediately have the speed advantage over other mons.
• Electric / Grassy Seed can be used to increase the Defense stat by one stage in either terrain.
• Misty Seed / Psychic Seed can raise the Special Defense stat by one stage in either terrain. 

---

Might be the only thread I'll have up for the holidays, though will see how could pace these every so often. If anything, expect more content like this within the coming
month, or essentially the year. Well rambled enough so Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays!

VGC 17 Analysis: Mudsdale

(VGC 2017) Mudsdale ( Assault Vest / Physical Attacker ) Movesets


Dec 17th 2016

Deviant Art by toilet--princess

Mudsdale is a rather interesting new Pokemon introduced in the latest games and has slowly steady itself as one of the premier Ground-types in the new VGC 17 format. With an overall defensive allocation of 100 HP / 100 Defense / 85 Special Defense with an respectable high 125 Attack stat, Mudsdales a bulky offensive Pokemon that can prove difficult to take down at times. Thanks to its new ability Stamina, any attacks directed towards Mudsdale will raise its defense stat by one stage every time. Though this might sound irrelevant at first since Mudsdale has to gain the defense boosts to be a relevant tank, its relatively high defensive stats allow it to take most resisted or physical hits well enough to use these stat modifiers.

Thanks to its pure Ground-typing, Mudsdale can serve a a makeshift response against some of the common Pokemon in the format, most notably Electric-types (Tapu Koko, Alolan Raichu), Fire-types (Arcanine, Torkoal, Talonflame), Steel-types (Metagross, Magnezone, etc), Poison-types (Nihilego, Gengar, Salazzle, Alolan Muk), and Rock-types (Gigalith, Aerodactyl). With that weren't enough, Mudsdale receives a relatively strong STAB single target Ground-type move in High Horsepower which doesn't get nerf by Grassy Terrain's effects, thus making it a somewhat stable option. Granted Mudsdale still access to STAB Earthquake as well as coverage options like Rock Slide, Heavy Slam, and Close Combat to hit most of the format for neutral damage.

Though Mudsdale serves as a great Ground-type to chose from, keep in mind some of its faults. Perhaps its biggest one is the fact Mudsdale's Base Speed clocks in at about 35, making it one of the slower Pokemon in the format. While this might make it a good Trick Room response (and user), Mudsdale isn't fast enough to take on most of the faster format to support its teammates. As a result of its low speed, Mudsdale will likely be hit against Water-, Grass-,  and Ice-type moves, which all three have seen notable usable from certain key Pokemon and/or archetypes like Tapu Bulu, Rain, Hail, etc. With all that said, Mudsdale is a great Pokemon to try with the right kind of support for any teams who need answers to Fire-, Electric-, Rock-, or Poison-types.

---

Mudsdale

Type: :ground:
Base Stats: 100 HP / 125 Attack / 100 Defense /  55 Special Attack / 85 Special Defense / 35 Speed
Weaknesses:  :water:  x2  :ice:  x2 :grass: x2
Resistances: :rock:  x0.5  :poison:  x0.5
Immunities: :electric:
Ability 1: Own Tempo - Prevents the user from being confused.
Ability 2: Stamina - Raise the Defense stat by 1 stage every time the user is hit with an attack (either Physical or Special). 

Hidden Ability: Inner Focus - Prevents the user from being flinched. 

---

Assault Vest User

Mudsdale @ Assault Vest
Ability: Stamina
Level: 50
EVs: 156 HP / 204 Atk / 12 Def / 132 SpD / 4 Spe
Adamant Nature
- High Horsepower / Earthquake
- Rock Slide
- Heavy Slam
- Close Combat

Milestones: 
-OHKO 252 HP / 4 Def Tapu Lele with Heavy Slam
-Avoids being 2HKOed by Torkoal with Sun-boosted Eruptions
-Avoids being 2HKOed by Alolan Ninetales's Blizzard
-Has a 6.3% chance for Tapu Lele to 2HKO with boosted Psychic.
-Flare Blitz from Alolan Marowak can't OHKO Mudsdale.
-Has a 93.8% chance to OHKO 252 HP / 4 Def Alolan Muk.

Assault Vest Mudsdale is one of the most resilient bulky Pokemon to use in the format given its strong defensive standpoint and its movepool. High Horsepower is a base 95 single target Ground-type move which can inflict heavy damage against those Electric-, Poison-, Fire-, and Steel-types, though it can miss at times. The advantage of using High Horsepower compared to Earthquake is most Pokemon are usually adept to taking spread STAB Earthquake damage at best, especially with Grassy Terrain being present. STAB Earthquake is still a decent option to utilize for spread damage, though it can be potentially blocked by Wide Guard. Rock Slide rounds out Mudsdale neutral coverage with Rock-type spread damage, though won't be flinching things unless Mudsdale is faster or under Trick Room. Heavy Slam is a strong Steel-type move for over two-thousand pound Pokemon to use it hit Fairy-types hard, especially against the Tapus. Finally, Close Combat is a great coverage move for Normal-types like Porygon2 or Snorlax, though keep in mind its defenses will reduce by one stage.

In terms of defensive standpoint, the EV Spread from Mudsdale is able to tank some of the strongest hits in the game while still retaliate in return. An example of this is a Modest Shattered Psyche from Tapu Lele in the Psychic Terrain won't be able to OHKO Assault Vest Mudsdale. In return, Heavy Slam from Mudsdale is able to OHKO most Tapu Lele unless they are significantly bulky. Another example of this newfound bulk is Torkoal's Sun-boosted Eruption won't be able to 2HKO Assault Vest Mudsdale, who in turn can hit with a High Horsepower. Usually Mudsdale won't be able to take repeated hits from the opposing side so a Pokemon with Intimidate, and maybe potential Snarl support like Arcanine or Krookodile can help.

Keep in mind Stamina can play a influential role for Mudsdale as it will most likely be switching in on resisted or moderately weak spread moves like Earthquake or Rock Slide. With a +1 defensive boost, Mudsdale is rather difficult to take down superior defensive stats unless the opponent uses a strong physical attack like a Waterfall from Gyarados. If the opponent has predominant physical attackers who can't straight-up OHKO Mudsdale, chances are it will likely stick around for the majority of the match and continue inflicting STAB High Horsepower or one of its coverage moves.

To get an idea of how Mudsdale is strong from both a offensive and defensive standpoint here are some damage calcs features these feats.


Offensive Calcs
[spoiler]

High Horsepower

-1 204+ Atk Mudsdale High Horsepower vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Arcanine: 134-162 (68 - 82.2%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
204+ Atk Mudsdale High Horsepower vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Magnezone: 304-360 (171.7 - 203.3%) -- guaranteed OHKO
204+ Atk Mudsdale High Horsepower vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Metagross: 134-162 (71.6 - 86.6%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
204+ Atk Mudsdale High Horsepower vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Nihilego: 604-712 (326.4 - 384.8%) -- guaranteed OHKO
204+ Atk Mudsdale High Horsepower vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Tapu Koko: 192-228 (131.5 - 156.1%) -- guaranteed OHKO
204+ Atk Mudsdale High Horsepower vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Raichu-Alola: 288-342 (213.3 - 253.3%) -- guaranteed OHKO
204+ Atk Mudsdale High Horsepower vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Muk-Alola: 210-248 (99 - 116.9%) -- 93.8% chance to OHKO
204+ Atk Mudsdale High Horsepower vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Gengar: 254-300 (188.1 - 222.2%) -- guaranteed OHKO
204+ Atk Mudsdale High Horsepower vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Gigalith: 134-162 (69.7 - 84.3%) -- guaranteed 2HKO


Heavy Slam

204+ Atk Mudsdale Heavy Slam (120 BP) vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Tapu Lele: 178-210 (100.5 - 118.6%) -- guaranteed OHKO
204+ Atk Mudsdale Heavy Slam (120 BP) vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Tapu Bulu: 124-148 (70 - 83.6%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Grassy Terrain recovery
204+ Atk Mudsdale Heavy Slam (120 BP) vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Mimikyu: 170-200 (104.9 - 123.4%) -- guaranteed OHKO
204+ Atk Mudsdale Heavy Slam (120 BP) vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Eviolite Clefairy: 104-124 (58.7 - 70%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
204+ Atk Mudsdale Heavy Slam (120 BP) vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Nihilego: 254-300 (137.2 - 162.1%) -- guaranteed OHKO
204+ Atk Mudsdale Heavy Slam (120 BP) vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Ninetales-Alola: 360-424 (241.6 - 284.5%) -- guaranteed OHKO
204+ Atk Mudsdale Heavy Slam (120 BP) vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Aerodactyl: 200-236 (128.2 - 151.2%) -- guaranteed OHKO


Rock Slide

-1 204+ Atk Mudsdale Rock Slide vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Arcanine: 54-64 (27.4 - 32.4%) -- 52.8% chance to 4HKO after Leftovers recovery
-1 204+ Atk Mudsdale Rock Slide vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Gyarados: 54-64 (31.7 - 37.6%) -- 86.8% chance to 3HKO
204+ Atk Mudsdale Rock Slide vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Pelipper: 68-80 (40.7 - 47.9%) -- guaranteed 3HKO
204+ Atk Mudsdale Rock Slide vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Aerodactyl: 92-110 (58.9 - 70.5%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

Close Combat

204+ Atk Mudsdale Close Combat vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Snorlax: 200-236 (74.9 - 88.3%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
204+ Atk Mudsdale Close Combat vs. 252 HP / 156 Def Eviolite Porygon2: 88-104 (45.8 - 54.1%) -- 45.3% chance to 2HKO
204+ Atk Mudsdale Close Combat vs. 28 HP / 0 Def Krookodile: 170-202 (97.7 - 116%) -- 87.5% chance to OHKO
204+ Atk Mudsdale Close Combat vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Celesteela: 69-82 (33.8 - 40.1%) -- guaranteed 3HKO
204+ Atk Mudsdale Close Combat vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Fur Coat Persian-Alola: 107-126 (62.2 - 73.2%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

[/spoiler]

Defensive Calcs
[spoiler]

Physical Defense

252+ Atk Gyarados Waterfall vs. 156 HP / 12 Def Mudsdale: 144-170 (73.8 - 87.1%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252+ Atk Thick Club Marowak-Alola Flare Blitz vs. 156 HP / 12 Def Mudsdale: 160-190 (82 - 97.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 Atk Garchomp Earthquake vs. 156 HP / 12 Def Mudsdale: 63-75 (32.3 - 38.4%) -- 97.3% chance to 3HKO
252 Atk Garchomp Tectonic Rage (180 BP) vs. 156 HP / 12 Def Mudsdale: 153-180 (78.4 - 92.3%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252+ Atk Metagross Meteor Mash vs. 156 HP / 12 Def Mudsdale: 85-102 (43.5 - 52.3%) -- 12.9% chance to 2HKO
252 Atk Weavile Icicle Crash vs. 156 HP / 12 Def Mudsdale: 134-162 (68.7 - 83%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252+ Atk Celesteela Heavy Slam (40 BP) vs. 156 HP / 12 Def Mudsdale: 33-39 (16.9 - 20%) -- possible 5HKO


Physical Defense with +1 Stamina

252+ Atk Gyarados Waterfall vs. +1 156 HP / 12 Def Mudsdale: 98-116 (50.2 - 59.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252+ Atk Thick Club Marowak-Alola Flare Blitz vs. +1 156 HP / 12 Def Mudsdale: 108-127 (55.3 - 65.1%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 Atk Garchomp Earthquake vs. +1 156 HP / 12 Def Mudsdale: 42-51 (21.5 - 26.1%) -- 2% chance to 4HKO
252 Atk Garchomp Tectonic Rage (180 BP) vs. +1 156 HP / 12 Def Mudsdale: 102-120 (52.3 - 61.5%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252+ Atk Metagross Meteor Mash vs. +1 156 HP / 12 Def Mudsdale: 58-69 (29.7 - 35.3%) -- 16.2% chance to 3HKO
252 Atk Weavile Icicle Crash vs. +1 156 HP / 12 Def Mudsdale: 92-110 (47.1 - 56.4%) -- 77.7% chance to 2HKO
252+ Atk Celesteela Heavy Slam (40 BP) vs. +1 156 HP / 12 Def Mudsdale: 22-27 (11.2 - 13.8%) -- possible 8HKO


Special Defense (with Assault Vest)

252+ SpA Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 156 HP / 132 SpD Assault Vest Mudsdale in Psychic Terrain: 84-100 (43 - 51.2%) -- 6.3% chance to 2HKO
252+ SpA Tapu Lele Shattered Psyche (175 BP) vs. 156 HP / 132 SpD Assault Vest Mudsdale in Psychic Terrain: 163-193 (83.5 - 98.9%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 SpA Ninetales-Alola Blizzard vs. 156 HP / 132 SpD Assault Vest Mudsdale: 68-84 (34.8 - 43%) -- guaranteed 3HKO after hail damage
252 SpA Pelipper Scald vs. 156 HP / 132 SpD Assault Vest Mudsdale in Rain: 114-134 (58.4 - 68.7%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 SpA Raichu-Alola Shattered Psyche (175 BP) vs. 156 HP / 132 SpD Assault Vest Mudsdale: 79-94 (40.5 - 48.2%) -- guaranteed 3HKO
252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Koko Dazzling Gleam vs. 156 HP / 132 SpD Assault Vest Mudsdale: 35-43 (17.9 - 22%) -- possible 5HKO
252+ SpA Torkoal Eruption (150 BP) vs. 156 HP / 132 SpD Assault Vest Mudsdale in Sun: 79-94 (40.5 - 48.2%) -- guaranteed 3HKO
[/spoiler]

---

Choice Band

 

Mudsdale @ Choice Band
Ability: Stamina
Level: 50
EVs: 196 HP / 204 Atk / 108 SpD
Adamant Nature
- High Horsepower / Earthquake
- Heavy Slam
- Rock Slide
- Close Combat

Milestones:
-OHKO 252 HP / 4 Def Arcanine after Intimidate
-2HKOs Porygon2 with Close Combat
-Takes a Life Orb Psychic Terrain boosted Psychic from Tapu Lele
-OHKOs up to 252 HP / 68 Def Tapu Bulu with Heavy Slam

Now its time to give Mudsdale some more horsepower by slapping a Choice Band unto its base 125 Attack. Unlike the above Mudsdale set who is ready to go in on the long haul, this Mudsdale is built to take on the foe with its strong coverage moves. STAB High Horsepower with the Choice Band is capable of 2HKOing most of the format and even OHKO some rather bulky Pokemon like Metagross, Gigalith, and defensive Arcanine. For those who want spread damage, STAB Earthquake can be used to deal good amount of damage for Mudsdale, though Grassy Terrain can reduce the output. Heavy Slam is now strong enough to OHKO Tapu Bulu, though Mudsdale should have some form of speed control like Trick Room to able to threaten it. For any Normal-type Pokemon, Close Combat is strong enough to OHKO Drampa, Snorlax, and severely dent Porygon2.

In terms of how to use this Choice Band set, try to position Mudsdale against teams who don't have natural responds or can't immediately OHKO this horse. With its slow speed stat, Mudsdale can take advantage of Trick Room to outspeed any faster targets, or even serve as a counter response to Trick Room itself with moves like Close Combat and Heavy Slam to OHKO Porygon2 or Mimikyu.

Offensive Calcs:
[spoiler]

CB High Horsepower

-1 204+ Atk Choice Band Mudsdale High Horsepower vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Arcanine: 204-240 (103.5 - 121.8%) -- guaranteed OHKO
204+ Atk Choice Band Mudsdale High Horsepower vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Gigalith: 204-240 (106.2 - 125%) -- guaranteed OHKO
204+ Atk Choice Band Mudsdale High Horsepower vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Metagross: 204-240 (109 - 128.3%) -- guaranteed OHKO
204+ Atk Choice Band Mudsdale High Horsepower vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Torkoal: 188-224 (106.2 - 126.5%) -- guaranteed OHKO
204+ Atk Choice Band Mudsdale High Horsepower vs. 252 HP / 164 Def Oranguru: 126-148 (63.9 - 75.1%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
204+ Atk Choice Band Mudsdale High Horsepower vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Garchomp: 132-156 (72.1 - 85.2%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
204+ Atk Choice Band Mudsdale High Horsepower vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Milotic: 105-124 (51.9 - 61.3%) -- 97.7% chance to 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
204+ Atk Choice Band Mudsdale High Horsepower vs. 244 HP / 108+ Def Gastrodon: 135-160 (62.2 - 73.7%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
204+ Atk Choice Band Mudsdale High Horsepower vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Marowak-Alola: 230-272 (137.7 - 162.8%) -- guaranteed OHKO

CB Heavy Slam

204+ Atk Choice Band Mudsdale Heavy Slam (120 BP) vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Tapu Bulu: 188-222 (106.2 - 125.4%) -- guaranteed OHKO
204+ Atk Choice Band Mudsdale Heavy Slam (120 BP) vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Eviolite Clefairy: 156-184 (88.1 - 103.9%) -- 25% chance to OHKO
-1 204+ Atk Choice Band Mudsdale Heavy Slam (120 BP) vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Salamence: 85-100 (49.7 - 58.4%) -- 99.6% chance to 2HKO

CB Rock Slide

-1 204+ Atk Choice Band Mudsdale Rock Slide vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Salamence: 78-94 (45.6 - 54.9%) -- 55.9% chance to 2HKO
-1 204+ Atk Choice Band Mudsdale Rock Slide vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Arcanine: 78-94 (39.5 - 47.7%) -- guaranteed 3HKO after Leftovers recovery
-1 204+ Atk Choice Band Mudsdale Rock Slide vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Gyarados: 80-96 (47 - 56.4%) -- 84% chance to 2HKO

CB Close Combat

204+ Atk Choice Band Mudsdale Close Combat vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Snorlax: 300-354 (112.3 - 132.5%) -- guaranteed OHKO
204+ Atk Choice Band Mudsdale Close Combat vs. 252 HP / 156 Def Eviolite Porygon2: 132-156 (68.7 - 81.2%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
-1 204+ Atk Choice Band Mudsdale Close Combat vs. 28 HP / 0 Def Krookodile: 170-200 (97.7 - 114.9%) -- 87.5% chance to OHKO
204+ Atk Choice Band Mudsdale Close Combat vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Drampa: 240-284 (129.7 - 153.5%) -- guaranteed OHKO


[/spoiler]


Defensive Calcs

[spoiler]

252+ SpA Life Orb Tapu Lele Psychic vs. 196 HP / 108 SpD Mudsdale in Psychic Terrain: 168-199 (84 - 99.5%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252+ Atk Gyarados Waterfall vs. 196 HP / 0 Def Mudsdale: 146-174 (73 - 87%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
156+ SpA Milotic Scald vs. 196 HP / 108 SpD Mudsdale: 116-140 (58 - 70%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 SpA Ninetales-Alola Blizzard vs. 196 HP / 108 SpD Mudsdale: 104-126 (52 - 63%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after hail damage

[/spoiler]

---

Potential Teammates include, but aren't limited to:

• Fire Types  - Covers Mudsdale's weaknesses to Ice- and Grass-types. ( Ex. Arcanine, Torkoal, Incineroar, Alolan Marowak, etc )
• Electric Types - Covers against potential Water-types ( Tapu Koko, Alolan Raichu, Magnezone, etc )
• Grass Types - Can severally threaten opposing Water-types who Musdale dislikes facing ( Tapu Bulu )
• Intimidate Support - Helps with Mudsdale's Defensive bulk (Ex. Salamence, Arcanine, Krookodile, etc )

Threats include, but aren't limited to:

• Water-types - Aranaquid, Gyarados, Milotic, Gastrodon, etc
• Ice-types - Alolan Ninetales, Sandslash, Vanilluxe, etc
• Grass-types - Tapu Bulu, Dhelmise, Whimiscott, Trevenant, etc
• Intimidate - Arcanine, Gyarados, Salamence, etc
• Powerful Special hits in general

Other Notable Options

• Life Orb set to utilize its full movepool with extra damage output, though at the cost of HP.
• A funny and wacky Specially Defensive Mudsdale is fun to run with Rest and Sleep Talk.
• Terrain Seeds to give Mudsdale either a +1 Defensive or Special Defensive boost in a respective terrain boost.

---

Alright so for those who read the analysis, is there any critique you want to say about Mudsdale or how the format of these analysis are. Any responses are appreciated about these Pokemon analysis so we can get an better threads for the future. Anyways thanks for reading.

(EDIT: Yes I did delete the thread prior to make any corrections since I notice other errors as well.)