CIL Season 2 Finals: vs The Bentonville Blastoise (CBranGames)

AKA The CIL Finale

( Artist: Allo412 )

Preview

This is it. The CIL Finals. After almost 6 months of planning sessions, battles, and downtime, we've reached this point of the season. Before we go on to discuss the Finals, I'd like to say a couple things. Despite not being as engaged with everyone in the league, I still had a ton of fun with you all [CIL people], not just the battling of course. I really wish some of the competitive players from Smogon, VGC, Draft League, etc today take the time to enjoy the game itself, and not overdo it at times. There should be some friendly competition at times, but we can't be too cut throat about things. Realized Pokemon should be taken for fun, and to enjoy all aspects, including the battles. By now, it seems most people finally have grasp of EV Training, optimizing sets, and engaging in some form of community, whether its a battling league like CIL, or other online or in-real life communities. Guess that's one of the few pointers about Gen 6 I generally like about.

Well not really going to go in-depth about that topic [specifically], but the whole gist of the thing is don't be overly competitive. Tried that, and just about anyone will feel burnout at playing Competitive Pokemon for some time. OK I've said enough. Whether I join for the following CIL Season 3 is clearly up to future events and fate on my end. Will admit this battle was rushed, but given the amount of planning I did with the night before and with ItalianG62, I felt strongly about the "Final" CIL team for the Nidokings was the best representation of... me in general. Then again, whenever you build a "good" team and question whether to make "last minute" changes, this was one of those cases where I decided to go with my gut, and just do it.

My opponent CBrangames, or Chase. Honestly  Chase is one of the strongest players in the CIL League and was able to achieve a 9-1 record, with one loss being due to lapse in judgement. Nevertheless, most of the games Chase has played seemed he was in control, or was behind the most of the match, and makes a comeback late game. One last note before I actually discuss the teams is this is the first time I'm battling someone I don't know at all in an all stakes battle for "1st place"...well its been awhile. Didn't know what the hell to expect, just keep in mind his Pokemon team, and play accordingly.

Also this article is over-the-top, just my thoughts in full detail than usual. 

CIL FINALS VS The Bentonville Blastoise (Cbrangames)

 My Team: Charizard X, Latias, Suicune, Weavile, Sylveon, Doublade, Nidoking, Galvantula, Chesnaught, Empoleon, Gliscor

Chase's Team: Mega Latios, Starmie, Florges, Skarmory, Arcanine, Jolteon, Porygon2, Diggersby, Cobalion, Machamp, Tornadus

Looking at Chase's team, its a well-balanced UU Squad with a couple strong OUs, but threatening nonetheless. To start off, Mega Latios is the current League MVP with 15 kills and 2 kill during the regular season, an an immediate top threat to watch out for. Despite the rather ridiculous base 160 Special Attack, Mega Latios still has a 130 Attack stat to utilize so the potential Dragon Dance set has to be considered. Starmie is Chase's primary hazard removal (the others being Mega Latios / Skarmory as secondary options), and has a diverse movepool to hit my entire team with respectable speed. The Water/Psychic-type also has a viable defensive value to tank a couple hits from my Mega Evolution and has some utility to watch out for like Thunder Wave. Florges is strong specially defensive Fairy-type especially when combined some some members of Chase's team capable of tanking every special hit on my team, bar Nidoking. Skarmory pairs well with Florges as it can easily tank the Poison/Steel-types which threaten this core, while has access to Spikes and Stealth Rocks to hazard stack. Just from looking at past replays, expected Chase to bring at least 3 of the 4 Pokemon mentioned here, maybe leaving out Skarmory for Cobalion, though it can handle most of my team aside Char X.

The other Pokemon on Chase's team were wild cards, and honestly what could make, or break this battle. Of the remaining 7 Pokemon, I'd believed Porygon2 and Diggersby were going to be the last two Pokemon for a number of reasons. While Porygon2 hasn't been brought since being traded, it was the only Pokemon who can take a Flare Blitz from Char X, and can paralyze it immediately ...[i].cough certain somone knows about this when he battled Epic back in PFA cough[/i].... Well here's the problem with Porygon2, I don't have much for it as I'm forced to wear it down with residual damage, but with the wall core that is Florge + Skarmory, this might prove to be troublesome. Diggersby was something I'll just say, well..."goodbye Sylveon", or "goodbye Chesnaught" as a Choice Band set wall breaks my team. To top if off, Diggersby can use both Sword Dance and Agility, so I had to ensure it takes moderate damage to revenge kill with a certain Pokemon we all know about [alluding to Weavile].

Basically Diggersby and Porygon2 was "worse-case" scenario, so I essentially prepared for those Pokemon + the four of those Pokemon Chase tends to use. Of course, still have to review at other members of the Bentonville Blastoise team as well. Machamp can be a strong wall breaker against my team, but gets threaten out everytime I get in Latias or Sylveon so Chase has to make the correct calls there. Tornadus-I was another Pokemon which might see action with it being one point faster than Latias, and with the variety of sets to run from the Defiant physical attacker, Tailwind offense, to the bulky Acrobatics set. Cobalion was a potential options as it has Stealth Rocks, but I figured Skarmory can handle Chesnaught, Latias, and Sylveon better, though it make playing against it with Weavile annoying. Finally, I didn't expect either Arcanine or Jolteon as I couldn't think of a better reason to bring them, which one of Chase's other backups do better, or just are stronger wall breakers.

Team Building 

As said for this matchup prior, expected Mega Latios, Skarmory, Florges, and Starmie to be brought against me, with the last two Pokemon as filler. As a result, I took into consideration all 4 Pokemon, but focus in particular against the Porygon2, Diggersby, and Tornadus compared to the rest of Chase's mons. Basically the whole idea was to bring a team which handles not only those three 'backups', but also any possible combinations of the other 4-5 mons like Machamp, or Arcanine. Will admit did start "team-building" for Chase as early as Week 7, but it was just some random ideas and set which weren't optimal against him for his entire team back then. By the time I'd beaten Iceolate at the Semi Finals, pretty much expected Chase to have idea what to bring against me as he had about a week to prepare for me or my Semi Finals opponent. As soon as the semi-finals were done, I'd immediately started planning for the imminent "finals" matchup, just as everyone expected of both of us to do.

Around Tuesday September 20th, I did contact ItalianG62 about the matchup just for some opinions as a certain sibling duo weren't available at the time (probably pissed I overslept that one time). ... Nah they just sick of mons anyways and had work at the time so reasonable enough neither won't be available. Alright both Italian and I knew Charizard X, Sylveon, and Weavile were going into the matchup, but the exact sets (except for Char X), was uncertain. Just looking at Chase's team, this might be the day where Char X might get the late game sweep to clinch us the championship, but recognized Porygon2 was going to be a huge obstacle. Sylveon can handle most of Chase's special attackers and can retaliate back with powerful Pixilate Hyper Voices, and can semi wall Mega Latios. While I was relucant to bring Weavile this battle, Italian did point out it threatens Mega Latios, Starmie, and Diggersby with its priority Pursuit, and Ice Shard attacks, though at the time didn't know what else to bring.

In terms of what I'd wanted to bring, we elaborated on Pokemon who were somewhat detrimental or momentum killers for the team. With three hazard removal Pokemon on Chase's team, Galvantula and Chesnaught were ruled out as both can't break through against Chase's wall core. Chesnaught in particular can't perform its job as decent physical wall when four of the predicted Pokemon were going to have a favorable matchup. Empoleon seemed like a decent response to bring against Mega Latios, Skarmory, Florges, and Starmie, but then I see the rest of his team... just beat, or impedes its support qualities. Gliscor was an attractive 6th option for a time to handle most of Chase's defensive Pokemon, but then realized most of his mons can carry a random HP Ice, or Ice-type move to net a quick KO.

By this point, we figured out 7 possible Pokemon to bring out of the 6 which gave me freedom to team build without compromising team synergy, roles, and compositions too much. Around Wednesday night (once my 1 hr session with Kyle was done), took about a full 2-3 hours later on messing around with stats, EVs Spreads, Held Items, Moves, and even roles/sets. IF there was one Pokemon I heavily considered, it was a potential Download Porygon2 after seeing what it has done in previous league battles. As a result, all my Pokemon had their Special Defense higher than their Defense, the exception being one, but with Roar. 

Will admit, I was uncertain at first to battle Chase around Thursday [September 22th] with some time conflicts, but ultimately decided to have it then, or maybe sooner if we were both ready. By the time I told Chase I "might" battle on Wednesday 21st, we both knew it would happen later at night when most people were asleep. The battle was streamed that same night with the assistance of KevinVGC and Sanyer as acting commentators. Did post the link to the battle to the PFA chat if they wanted to see my a## get kicked hard, but draw in some viewers on the CIL twitch at least. The commentary done by KevinVGC, and Sanyer, who honestly did a great job with the match despite doing this extremely late on such short notice. NOTE: The Twitch replay of the LA Nidokings Vs Bentonville Blastoise (Me Vs Chase) was deleted, so I'll post the replay instead. 

Ok so enough with what happen and here's the FINALS Team.


THE TEAM

(Based on Level 100s)

Forge (Charizard-Mega-X) @ Charizardite X  
Ability: Tough Claws  
EVs: 96 HP / 20 Atk / 212 SpD / 180 Spe  
Adamant Nature  
- Flare Blitz  
- Dragon Claw  
- Roost  
- Dragon Dance  

Milestones:
- Outspeeds Jolly Diggersby, then Scarf Variant by +1 DD 
- +1 DD OHKOs standard offensive Starmie
- Life Orb Scald from 252 Starmie is a 3HKO
-Moonblast from defensive Florges is a 3HKO
- (Important) Doesn't activate SpA Download boost from Porygon2

OK this set might seem strange, but it allows Charizard X to get as many opportunities it can to setup Dragon Dance and begin wall breaking, or sweep. The only reason to have Adamant max attack instead of the investment shown was to have a better chance to 2HKO Porygon2 on the switch with Rocks, but there was a good chance the Eviolite wall can be fully defensive. Essentially figured it was proper to shave some Attack EVs off of Char X, but then realized it doesn't need as much investment. Char X as is 2HKOs or OHKOs everything on Chase's team bar Porygon2 without any boosts which was rather huge. While messing around with the EVs in the damage calculator, decided to invest to the point where the Special Defense was higher than Char X's base 111, which took the most allocation. Once dumping the rest in HP / Atk, I realized ...holy shit, this thing can tanks some special hits now and potentially sweep under the right circumstance. Yeah Porygon2 was going to be annoying, but at least I can pressure it like we did against Epic's P2 in the PFA finals.


Nui Harime (Sylveon) (F) @ Leftovers  
Ability: Pixilate  
EVs: 248 HP / 176 Def / 64 SpD / 20 Spe  
Calm Nature  
IVs: 0 Atk  
- Hyper Voice  
- Fake Tears  
- Wish  
- Heal Bell  

Milestones:
-Psyshock from Mega Latios is a 3HKO.
-Again Calm Nature to bolster its higher Special Defense stat.
-Same Generic Butter and Bread Sylveon
-Fake Tears for "special" walls. 

Couldn't believe myself that I'm bringing the same Fake Tears Sylveon from last match, except now it has to deal with Florges and Porygon2 potentially. The thought of running Toxic and Calm Mind did occur, but realized Sylveon would be in a Cleric Stall war with Florges, and can't break a CM Florges, or Eviolite P2 fast enough with boosted Pixilate Hyper Voice or Toxic. As mention last game, Fake Tears drops the Special Defense stat by -2, making these targets vulnerable to a Pixilate Hyper Voice. Have to be careful when facing Tornadus as Fake Tears will trigger Defiant, so can't freely spam this move. Did experiment with the Specs Hyper Voice set, even Scarf, but felt the Cleric support from Heal Bell and Wish was better. Figured Heal Bell might prove useful this time around to get some status recovery for my mons, especially if Porygon2 comes around. If there's a point in the battle if its just Sylveon (with some allies) vs Chase's core team of special attackers, chances are high it can carry the team similar to how it did against KevinVGC. Not being too optimistic, but Sylveon plays an important role here to tank those special hits and hold our defense.. 


Rogue (Suicune) @ Leftovers  
Ability: Pressure  
EVs: 252 HP / 240 Def / 16 Spe  
Bold Nature  
IVs: 0 Atk  
- Scald  
- Calm Mind  
- Roar  
- Rest  

Milestones:
-Few Speed Points to outspeed Adamant max speed Machamp
-Not much else
-Roar + CM should beat CM Florges

Aside the slight speed creep, this Suicune appeared the last 6 out of 7 of the last CIL season battles, including the playoffs. Honestly could have ran something else like Ice Beam or Toxic, but felt Roar was a better option to phaze stuff out in case they setup. There was one scenario where if anyone had Psych Up and copies Suicune stat boots, well I can use Roar to remove the immediate threat. Didn't like the fact I was bringing the exact Suicune set, but given it was my best "neutral" physical wall, it was almost necessary to bring it. Might as well have an anti setup Pokemon, who ironically can be one of its own and act as a valuable win condition.  


Byrant (Nidoking) @ Life Orb  
Ability: Sheer Force  
EVs: 108 Atk / 200 SpA / 200 Spe  
Hasty Nature  
- Sludge Wave  
- Flamethrower  
- Sucker Punch  
- Stealth Rock  

Milestones:
-Outspeeds "Diggersby" (non Scarf), by one point 
-Has a great chance to OHKO Cobalion with Flamethrower
-Sludge Wave + Sucker Punch OHKOs 4 HP Mega Latios
-Flamethrower + Sucker Punch (with some damage), OHKOs 4 HP Starmie
- Should 2HKO most relevant targets. 

Originally this slot was Doublade as it can act as a makeshift wall / sweeper at the same time for my team, but realized it was going to be pressured too much. Nidoking was the "safer" choice, as it can actually threaten most of Chase's team with its massive movepool alone, without him knowing my actual set. Actually debated for awhile which was my "best" STAB to run against Chase: Earth Power or Sludge Wave. At the end of the day, three Pokemon on Chase's team were "immune" to Earth Power: Skarmory, Tornadus, and Mega Latios. Sludge Wave hits most of Chase's team harder (notably Florges) and can use Flamethrower to hit the his Steel-types for heavy damage. Most importantly, this Nidoking gets damage on something and not let those Pokemon in for free, again with the exception of Chase's Steel-types. The third attacking move was a toss-up as the final slot was going to be Stealth Rocks to get residual chip damage. After some thought, decided to run Sucker Punch to hit Mega Latios and Starmie once weaken. In fact, just the combination of Flamethrower + Sucker Punch and Sludge Wave + Flamethrower, with some prior damage should OHKO Standard Mega Lati and Starmie.

Even though this Nidoking can't hit Diggersby for fairly SE damage, figured it was best to have Nidoking, as well as other teammates on my team outspeed to get some damage off. When attacking, might as well confirmed if the Diggersby is "Scarf" or not, so I rather have something on my team take the fall so the next Pokemon can revenge kill.


Ryan (Weavile) (M) @ Choice Band  
Ability: Pressure  
EVs: 252 Atk / 20 Def / 60 SpD / 176 Spe  
Jolly Nature  
- Knock Off  
- Ice Punch  
- Ice Shard  
- Pursuit  

Milestones: 
-Outspeeds Timid Starmie by 1 Point.
-OHKOs 4 HP Mega Latios all the time with Choice Band
-Has a High 93.8% chance to OHKO 4 HP Starmie with CB Knock Off 
-If these Pokemon are defensive, need prior damage of around 30%.
-Does about 73.9% min to Diggersby

Now Weavile or Aka Ryan. From the beginning of this team building process, I was uncertain what item to select for Weavile, heck even a set. Life Orb and Expert Belt came to mind, however not only was the damage output "poor", but Weavile is prone to getting killed or crippled with status if it doesn't have something. For a while, thought of running the standard Life Orb set, until I played around with Choice Band:

• 252 Atk Choice Band Weavile Knock Off vs. 4 HP / 4 Def Mega Latios: 302-356 (100 - 117.8%) -- guaranteed OHKO
• 252 Atk Choice Band Weavile Knock Off (97.5 BP) vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Colbur Berry Starmie: 256-303 (98.8 - 116.9%) -- 93.8% chance to OHKO
• 252 Atk Choice Band Weavile Knock Off (97.5 BP) vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Tornadus: 301-355 (100.6 - 118.7%) -- guaranteed OHKO
• 252 Atk Choice Band Weavile Ice Shard vs. 0 HP / 4 Def Diggersby: 230-272 (73.9 - 87.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

These damage calculations were incredibly surprising to the point I'd immediate changed the set from Life Orb to Choice Band to ensure these benchmarks. One crucial aspect about running Choice Band is Weavile doesn't suffer from the LO 10% recoil as usual, meaning it won't rack up residual damage from Stealth Rocks and Spikes. However, the best part is I can play around with Weavile like a hit-and-run Pokemon, attempt to Pursuit trap Starmie/Mega Latios, and just clean up weaken mons as usual. Only thing is Cobalion completely walls Weavile, but I'll won't eagerly spam Knock Off. Also have to be careful of potential situations where a Pokemon can setup against Weavile given its Choice locked, but I kinda knew that going into this battle.


Anne (Latias) @ Leftovers  
Ability: Levitate  
EVs: 140 HP / 108 Def / 108 SpA / 16 SpD / 136 Spe  
Calm Nature  
IVs: 0 Atk  
- Stored Power  
- Calm Mind  
- Roost  
- Defog  

Milestones:
-Outspeeds Adamant Arcanine by one point
- +2 108 SpA CM Stored Power with Rocks up OHKOs most frail Pokemon
- +3 108 SpA CM Stored Power  with Rocks up 2HKO most of Chase's walls (even Mega Lati)
- Calm Nature to take special hits slightly better
- Forgot the defense investment...might have been a waste. 

Essentially the first 5 Pokemon on this list was my actual team, just this Latias was the best "filler" compared to the rest of the Nidoking eleven-mon team. Originally this was the same Trick Scarf Set to outspeed Mega Latios (avoid speed tie), and cripple one of Chase's walls with the Choice Scarf. Honestly, had I "continued" to team build to Thursday (September 22th), this set might not have been utilize. The main reason why I wanted this specific Latias set was to get a "secondary" setup sweeper, and of course, clean up anything Char X failed to do. Might have included Ice Beam to hit Mega Latios, but the potential of being hazard stack against me strong. So in the end, chose to run this mono-attacking set with Defog. Chances were this was going to be my "last ditch" effort mon to sweep, as consecutive CMs will bolster Stored Power to frightening levels. If we somehow get to +3 CM, well Latias might be able to punch a hole against Chase's team to where the remaining members can clean up the opposing team.

Team Preview  and  Pre-Game Mind Set

My Team: Char X, Sylveon, Suicune, Nidoking, Weavile, Latias

Chase's Team: Mega Latios, Florges, Starmie, Skarmory, Jolteon, Arcanine

Team Preview: Going to say this right now...thank Arceus there's no Porygon2 and Diggersby as clearly both of these Pokemon were 2 of the top 3 threats against this team. It did surprised me a bit Jolteon and Arcanine were in this matchup, though decided not to question it as Chase brought them for a reason. Not that I didn't prepare for them, just depending on the sets, this battle might sway in my favor. As usual, Chase did bring the 4 Pokemon I'd expected, yet wonder was was the Starmie, and Mega Latios sets as both were now the most threatening. After weighing my options, figured the best lead of choice was going to by my Charizard X to 1) get the Mega Evolution, 2) threaten something out, and 3) ( BIG IF ) setup early game. Either way if he sends in Mega Latios, I'd likely switch into Sylveon, and play accordingly there. However with the finals already commencing live on Twitch, figured Char X might put up a show if we get anything except for the Mega Latios

 NOTE: Here's the Twitch replay of the LA Nidokings Vs Bentonville Blastoise (Me Vs Chase). Commentary done by KevinVGC, and Sanyer, who honestly did a great job with the match despite being extremely late and on such short notice. 

The Battle: Keep Calm and Dragon Dance ...Turn 1

(Slight Spoiler...but whatever)

So Charizard X is up against Starmie and there's a couple options I've thought about, but one of them standout the most. Basically it was dumb "me" saying, "Hey let's risk the game and Dragon Dance up, and see how Chase responds... likely crippling my win con." All season I'd play rather passively and now finally have Char X in a position were it can actually do its thing...and let it dance. Starmie's Scald did below half thanks to my special bulk, and I managed to successful get +1 Dragon Dance. Now this puts me into an interesting position, Dragon Dance again, Roost, or switch out to Suicune / Sylveon as both haven't been damaged. Since Forge the Char X has +1 speed, figured I'd just Roost again, on the likely Arcanine switch in, but Starmie might reveal T-Wave. Again I'm risking the whole game on the fact if Chase has certain moves / coverage for Char X, but when am I going to this opportunity again?

As Arcanine drops my attack raise back to neutral, Char X recovers off some damage with Roost. Here Char X goes for Dragon Claw to gauge the damage on the Arcanine, doing about half HP, however Arcanine use Flamethrower on my quad resistant Dragon... At first I wonder if Chase had indeed misclick, but turns out that's all he has to hit my Char X and was catch off guard my lead. In response, decide to Dragon Dance again as Arcanine goes for E-Speed, and now its looking as if the game might be won "right here". Instead going for +2/+3 Char X, I foolishly go for Dragon Claw as Chase sends in Florges which kinda stops the momentum. Normally if this Char X was full attack investment, I'd risk the damage roll, but felt we need one more Dragon Dance boost up to potential sweep early game.

Chase inadvertently saves himself from being swept, but he's now has to sake Pokemon to keep himself in the game, likely the Florges and Skarmory. Before Florges goes down, it manages to get a Toxic on Char X, essentially preventing the sweep, before it goes down to the incoming Flare Blitz. As Skarmory is sent out, I knew Char X can't do much anymore and either Chase goes for the Stealth Rock, or the Roost to recover some damage from the Flare Blitz (Note: Sturdy will prevent Skarm from fainting). The first scenario happens as Char x goes down, but Chase using the chance to setup Rock, but now with a 1 HP Skarmory without many walls.

Nidoking is sent out and at this point, lets setup Rock ourselves. Problem is Skarmory can Roost this turn, and switch to Starmie the next, or sack Skarm for a free switch to Skarmory. Either way, I knew something faints either Skarm with Flamethrower, or Starmie with the Rock + Flamethrower + Sucker Punch. Skarmory faints to a Crit Flamethrower (not sure if it mattered) following to get up rocks. Starmie comes in and my immediate switch out is Sylveon, but Chase gets some good damage off with Psyshock. Realized after some thought the Starmie had no Life Orb item, so maybe it was Choice Scarf as he swapped out earlier against Char X. Immediately we make the double switch into Latias, and see the Arcanine switch, but now at low HP.

A normal Latias could pick off the weaken Fire-type, but this wasn't no ordinary one. Instead I remove the hazards on the field with Defog (a mistake on my end now I think of it), and decide maybe its time to Calm Mind here. Now that both Florges and Skarmory were out of the picture, it was time to setup to enough CMs to where Stored Power can damage or OHKO most of Chase's team. If Latios switches in, I'd just try to get off damage so Weavile can revenge kill it. As Latias starts Calm Mind boosting, Chase uses Wisp on my Eon Dragon, yet it seems like he has no response to it. After getting to +2 along with some recovery, I decide to attack with Stored Power, and doing so catch the Jolteon in the process for any OHKO.

Now this battle looks favorable as Arcanine is sent back in to damage get E-Speed damage on my CM-boosted Latias. Problem is its most setup fodder, as I get to +3 CM, then finally OHKO the Fire-type dog (sorry naitre ) . Now its brother vs sister. Mega Latios Vs a +3 CM boosted Latias. Unless Chase crits my Latias, this game is still in my favor as Choice Band Weavile is sitting in the back at full. All Latias has to do is get damage on Mega Latios, and the best part is I can 2HKO the blue Eon Dragon at +3 Stored Power.

Mega Latios manages to faint my Latias with a Draco Meteo + Psyshock, but now Weavile (or Ryan the Pug) is here to win us the game. We get a crit Knock Off in somewhat bad taste as I'd already had the game sealed. With Starmie as the last mon standing, it actually locks itself into Dazzling Gleam, crits back Weavile, though Ryan manages to survive the hit! At this point the game is all but locked up, and the LA Nidokings win their first League outside the PFA league we'd originated.

Afterthoughts

I'll admit, this battle could have easily gone my way completely had I'd decided to Dragon Dance up, and with knowledge of Chase's full team now (here's the link). To be honest I'm probably at fault for arranging the battle to be done ASAP, but both Chase and my's schedules didn't line up well to be able to battle, aside Thursday or Wednesday night. Did wanted to wait until like Sunday, but later changed my mind as rather finish the CIL Finals before later September, and we did. Not going to nitpick the battle here and there like I did for the explanation, but I'd saw the Nidoking roster definitely had a clear advantage in terms of balance playstyle as my opponent Chase did. Kinda prepared for Chase to bring a bulkier team with Diggersby and Porygon2 being the focal points, but they never showed up. Can't "theorymon" too much about the possibly "what ifs" or "what might" occur. 

Regardless good games to Chase, or Cbrangames of the Bentonville Blastoise, and there 9-1 record shows they aren't a team to to played around with. Definitely Chase is the best runner up team for the CIL as they improved from being one of the worse teams, to the among the best. One thing to note Chase has a somewhat tight schedule so completely understand how it feels to team build while line up the right times with your opponent. Aside the favorable damage rolls we got to achieve OHKOs, there wasn't too much hax involved and as somewhat clean. Well good games to you, maybe we'll battle again some time during Sun / Moon with the new Pokemon and stuff.

Really want to thank Chase, KevinVGC, Sanyer, Abruptfury, GingerxPug, Tref, KantoCastBlue, and all the others who stayed up to watch or commentate the battle. Special thanks to Kyle (ItalianG62) for giving me some ideas on which Pokemon to bring, and some sets to consider. Kyle also kinda had to put up with my set ideas and thoughts in the battle, as sometimes I'm kinda difficult to change opinions about during team building. Though they weren't there, Rogue and Naitre definitely helped support this Nidoking Championship run despite helping a couple of games, but still appreciated. 

Man not much to say, but after this, I definitely need a break from battling semi-competitively, so might lay back for awhile. Definitely looking forward S/M when the game drops so I can spam Choice Specs Thunders with Tapo Koko....before it gets banned from Smogon. If anything, I'll see if its possible I can return to CIL S3 for a title defense, but that might be a long time from now until S/M. Well to all the people in the chat I've talked with and chatted, thanks for your support. 

Three titles in a year, guess that'll suffice. Well thanks for reading this piece. 

CIL Playoffs: Round 2 Vs The Bolt Strike Bisharps

( Artist: Ehllychan )

Preview

The following might be "me" just rambling vaguely about "stuff"...

So.. its been about a three and a half weeks since I've updated regarding the CIL League and Playoffs. At this time, Finals has been finished about a week ago, but won't spoiler any implications until the very end. Anyways during early September, boy didn't know for sure what was going to happen, but we are here...doing this writeup. Before I'd like to continue, will like to say thanks to everyone who supported me both IRL and those who I interact Online. Honestly wasn't in the "best mood" back then, but now this is a new leaf so I'll continue working on some updates here. 

Regarding CIL, I'll admit there was a point where I wanted to leave but given that these events happen during the last week of the regular season and had the BYE, figured we should continue on. Like We just got a perfect 10-0 record and these thoughts occur for just because of my own" insecurities". Eventually got over them, and decided, " well we came this far, so lets end with a bang"...while not half ass anything. Even though this is suppose to be casual (hence the name) and laid-back league, I didn't plan on losing because of an early exit, or inadequately preparing for the battle. If there was ever going to be a battle I "lost", at least we'll make my opponents work for it. Well...doing this league for six months  and now we where entering crunch time. 

To anyone from the CIL, I'm not upset about anything regarding the CIL league or anyone for that matter. Just some personal event came up, I overreacted, and some other stuff occurred. Didn't want to mention anything or refer it once for attention, but now that most of that stuff is cleared, though I'd just share how I felt in late August/ early Sept. Guess this is my way at venting some steam, but not against anyone from the league, my opponent, or those who I talk to on a daily basis now. Ok with that all of the way, here's my week 11, or Round 2 Battle against a former opponent, Iceolate or Jonah. 

CIL Playoff Round 2: VS The Bolt Strike Bisharps 

 My Team: Charizard X, Latias, Suicune, Weavile, Sylveon, Doublade, Nidoking, Galvantula, Chesnaught, Empoleon, Gliscor

Iceolate's Team: Mega Lopunny, Zapdos, Azumarill, Reuniclus, Goodra, Heliolisk, Registeel, Cofagrigus, Rhyperior, Liepard, Archeops.

For CIL playoffs, given the LA Nidokings went perfect 10-0, we managed to get both the best record and a bye spot for playoffs. While some league did have a standard top 8, CIL has a top 6 with the two best team of each division potentially achieving a bye slot. This meant I had somewhat free time for myself, or potential time to prepare for people I know I'd have to face eventually in Round 2, and maybe Finals. Originally I did prepare for both Icolate and ItalianG62 for my Round 2 matchup, though seeing how their seasonal battle went (not playoffs round 1), there was a good chance Icolate might be the victor. To my suspicions, Iceolate did in fact beat Kyle and played the battle safe most of the time.  Regarding how I was going to prepare for Jonah well... not going to explain what team analysis of Iceolate's team as this has been covered before on our Week 9 battle, so I'll leave a link here. For this occasion, we'll briefly look over what mistakes we both made, as well as possibly determine the team matchup based on the following replay from Week 9.

So... basically I knew from this battle there was no way in hell Iceolate doesn't bring hazard removal in either Zapdos or Archeops, but fully expected the Electric/Flying-type Pokemon to come. Well Zapdos kinda was a reasonable Pokemon to bring for this matchup for Defog, Volt Switch potential, defensive pressure (pun not intended), an offensive set with (STAB T-bolt, HP Flying, Extrasensory, Heat Wave), or something weird set. Mega Lopunny is the fastest thing on Iceolate's team and can revenge kill any weaken Pokemon, though I felt it was moderately checked with my "semi-finals" team. If there was a number one threat on Jonah's team, it was the Azumarill as it can hit everything on the team for heavy damage, and can get kills STAB Play Roughs, Waterfall, and Aqua Jets. What made this matchup even more 'concerning' was my team didn't have a direct switch-in for Azu, so had to ensure everyone can do "something" against the aquatic rabbit. For any defensive walls, Rhyperior was probably the only one to bring back since without a high base HP  / Defensive Rock-type, then Char X can potentially setup somewhere and sweep the team. Goodra can eat up most of my team's special attacks with its high Sp Def, though it likely gets worn down from all the damage it takes. Finally, if there's a mon I felt Jonah would bring 100% (just based on planning), Reuniclus was the most likely newcomer aside Zapdos given he'd just swept with a CM variant on the last week of the regular season to make playoffs. 

During our Week 9 battle, the lack of any hazard control heavily swayed the matchup in my favor as Iceolate's team was kinda put on a timer with those Toxic Spikes and regular Spikes. If there was going to be some 'major' changes on his end, adding Zapdos and Reuniclus was the best thing to do in order to improve his chances against me. Zapdos can sorta threaten nearly most of my wall core bar Sylveon and Defogs any hazards, which I'm still going to bring. Mega Lopunny and Rhyperior were likely going to be standard sets and Reuniclus I felt was going to have Calm Mind to be able to 1v1 most of my Pokemon, and can still be me if a "last mon" situation occurs. For this battle, I asked a good ol' friend Rogue and later his sister Naitre for consultation of some Pokemon, and moves (and yes they are IRL siblings). Both Rogue and Naitre have helped me in the past for things, but rarely did I consult with them for League battles, except for Rogue who helped initally during Season 2 of PFA and the beginning of PFA/CIL when I needed it.  Don't worry as most of the team,  notably the EVs were fixed by myself, thowgh will like to thank those two for helping out. Oh yeah if either of you are reading this, yeah....I kinda overslept through our "scheduled" meeting, so my bad.

Well I'll admit this is the same team I brought, but really all three of us agreed it was the best well rounded team, and felt Iceolate would prepare for some other stuff like Weavile or Gliscor. Really like some of the changes made from the original as you'll see.


THE TEAM


Forge (Charizard-Mega-X) @ Charizardite X  
Ability: Tough Claws  
EVs: 136 HP / 144 Atk / 28 Def / 4 SpD / 196 Spe  
Adamant Nature  
- Flare Blitz  
- Will-O-Wisp  
- Roost  
- Dragon Dance  

Milestones:
-Outspeed max speed Timid Goodra (and Scarf if +1)
-Flare Blitz can 2HKO most of Iceolate's team bar Azu, Rhyperior, or Cofag
----->>>2HKO Fully Physically Defensive Reuniclus
-Dumped HP and Def EVs

Well Forge has to make an appearance in this battle given the potential to setup with one Dragon Dance and sweep once either Azumarill, Rhyperior, or Cofag were gone, or severely weaken. After one Dragon Dance, Char X should be able to outspeed Jolly Mega Lopunny and the potential Choice Scarf Goodra. Though this set could have been a standard defensive Char X, the threat of Reuniclus was a looming threat we couldn't ignore. Adamant nature with some Atk investment possible to ensure the 2HKO was opted and everything else was allocated to HP, Def, and SpDef. Roost allows Char X to replenish lost HP, especially if Rocks are up on the field, or if it needs to setup on a certain Pokemon. The last move was a toss-up between Thunder Punch, Dragon Claw, HP Grass, and Sword Dance, but Rogue told me just to run Wisp to burn either the Azumarill and Rhyperior switch and it was already fine. Though Wisp did conflict with Toxic Spike (will get to later), it was just to give myself assurance against Azu mostly.


Bryant (Nidoking) @ Life Orb  
Ability: Sheer Force  
EVs: 144 Atk / 208 SpA / 156 Spe  
Rash Nature  
- Earth Power  
- Ice Beam  
- Poison Jab  
- Toxic Spikes  

Milestones
-2HKOs most relevant Pokemon with the combination of EP, Ice Beam, and Poison Jab.
-Poison Jab OHKOes Azumarill to avoid situation if it were Assault Vest.
-Goodra gets 2HKO by Poison Jab as well.
-Ice Beam can 2HKO Specially Defensive Zapdos without rolls.
-Toxic Spikes are filler...well free 1/8th damage I guess. 
-Outspeeds Zapdos without much speed investment.

Perhaps the one Pokemon we drastically changed from the original "Passho Berry" set to net a surprise kill on Azu, which did help previously. Reason for opting out from the 1st set was the strong likelihood Azumarill might now sport the Assault Vest, or the Poison-reducing Berry (forgot what's it called). Instead this Nidoking acts as a wallbreak to 2HKO most things on Jonah's team and pick them off. The additional attack investment was to 2HKO a non defensive Reuniclus, if there was any reason for Jonah to not bring full defensive. All season Nidoking has been sorta a hit and run Pokemon, but with the positive SpAtk nature and Sheer Force Life Orb I intend on Bryant netting some crucial KOs. Lastly Toxic Spikes was opted again as Icolate has no Poison-type to remove them aside his two Defog users. Jonah's team lacked clerics aside Lopunny and Zapdos, which both don't want to run Heal Bell on a crucial slot, so chances are likely something will get poisoned, and get consistent residual damage. 


Nui Harime (Sylveon) (F) @ Leftovers  
Ability: Pixilate  
EVs: 248 HP / 148 Def / 4 SpA / 96 SpD / 12 Spe  
Calm Nature  
IVs: 0 Atk  
- Hyper Voice  
- Wish  
- Fake Tears  
- Heal Bell  

Milestones:
-Opted for Calm Nature to increase Sylveon's "highest" stat in Sp Def
-Avoids being 2HKOed by Specs Modest Zapdos (highly unlikely)
-Takes 1 Adamant Return from Mega Lopunny when close to 100%
-Better yet...generic special tank with cleric support

Prior to this battle, Sylveon was the "last" Pokemon added to the team due to its ability to provide basic cleric support and to wall most of Jonah's special attackers. An uninvested Hyper Voice still inflicts heavy damage to most of Jonah's team anyways, and OHKOs the Mega Lopunny so there wasn't a need to invest, or change for a special attacker set. The biggest difference here is the change from Calm Mind to Fake Tears. Now before anyone questions this, I'll explain a little problem called Reuniclus. Basically if Iceolate, or Jonah bring a CM Reuniclus, I have to immediately pressure it out somehow, but chances are he'd save it for the last mon situation, and be able to tank most of my special attacker's main damage output. Now here's where Fake Tears comes to play. Essentially,  the reason for Fake Tears is to drop the Special Defense by -2, instead of -1, pretty much cutting it in half or a third of the original Sp Def. 

If Sylveon is up against CM Reuniclus, it can use Fake Tears to counter balance the Special Defense boost from Calm Mind, and pretty much 2HKO the Psychic-type. Fake Tears can be used to "force" switches, or allow Sylveon to beat Cofag, Zapdos, and other Pokemon as a -2 Sp Def drop will likely result in a 2HKO, or OHKO with Pixilate Hyper Voice. If Azumarill is in fact, Belly Drum, I can use Fake Tears on the turn it uses BD so Latias (will discuss later on) can 100% OHKO it with T-Bolt.


Reed (Chesnaught) @ Leftovers  
Ability: Bulletproof  
EVs: 200 HP / 164 Def / 144 Spe  
Impish Nature  
- Wood Hammer  
- Super Fang  
- Spikes  
- Synthesis  

Milestones:
-Adamant M-Lopunny's High Jump Kick is a 3HKO.
-Tanks one Play Rough from non Choice Band Azu.
-Outspeeds Adamant Azu by 1 point. 
-OHKOs 252 HP / 4 Def Azu with prior damage (20% Min)

This is the same Chesnaught set brought to the original game against Iceolate, and yes it did have the speed investment to outspeed absolute max speed Adamant Azu and retaliate with Wood Hammer. Super Fang is a great option to have to severely weaken most of his Mons via cutting their total HP by half, or 50%. This might sound weird at first given the potential for Zapdos and Reuniclus to make an appearance, but I figured this will "force" them to replenish their HP. Chances were I'd switch into Char X on either of these two as they either recover off the damage, or attack my Mega. Spikes were opted yet again as most of Iceolate's team was grounded, so residual damage from each damaging turn is always nice. Lastly Synthesis was used to recuperate Chesnaught's HP immediately unlike Leech Seed as it was my response to Mega Lopunny, Azumarill, and Rhyperior. 


Rogue (Suicune) @ Leftovers  
Ability: Pressure  
EVs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpA / 4 SpD  
Bold Nature  
IVs: 0 Atk  
- Scald  
- Calm Mind  
- Roar  
- Rest  

Milestones:
-Its Rogue ...what more can be said
-ok that was suppose to be 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpA, but it didn't matter much
-Just that Suicune needed to be Max Physical Defense. 

This is the same Suicune set I've brought in most recent battles its seen combat. Well Standard CM Roar Suicune is basically here to do its job, counteract CM boosts from others with Roar, while boost up itself with CMs of its own. Only problem is Heliolisk walls Suicune, but I expected Zapdos over the lizard to be Jonah's STAB Electric-type. Not much to say, except Rest + Heal Bell from Sylveon helps Suicune get back into the battlefield.


Anne (Latias) @ Choice Scarf  
Ability: Levitate  
EVs: 16 HP / 120 Def / 252 SpA / 120 Spe  
Modest Nature  
IVs: 0 Atk  
- Psyshock  
- Thunderbolt  
- Healing Wish  
- Trick  

Milestones:
-Enough Speed to outpace Jolly Mega Lopunny and Scarf Goodra
-Psyshock to hit Goodra harder
-Thunder Bolt over Energy Ball if...if Jonah had Sap Sipper Azu with Belly Drum
-More Defense EVs to take a +6 Aqua Jet after Rocks...if it crits

This Latias set was mainly there as an "offensive support" to either revenge kill weaken targets, or support the team with one of its two status options. Healing Wish is there in case one of my Win Cons gets severely damage and need Latias to "sacrifice" itself to recuperate her ally, while maintaining some offensive momentum. Trick is opted in case to cripple one of Jonah's walls, or deal with CM Reuniclus via locking the Pokemon into one move. The only thing worth mentioning is the additional Defense EVs to tank a +6 Aqua Jet better from Azu. Speaking of Azu, if it ever gets in on Sylveon and attempts to Belly Drum, the first I'll do is click Fake Tears to ensure the OHKO with Thunder Bolt from Latias. Not much else to say, but Latias can be an invaluable asset to the team, if I use it properly.

Team Preview and Pre Game Mindset

My Team: Char X, Nidoking, Sylveon, Suicune, Chesnaught, Latias
Iceolate's Team: Mega Lopunny, Azumarill, Zapdos, Heliolisk, Rhyperior, Archeops

Team Preview: So no Reuniclus, Goodra, or even Cofagrigus for this matchup, however some interesting choices did came about. Seems like both Heliolisk and Archeops are here to outspeed most members of my team, and get some potential Volt-Turn going. Seeing just Heliolisk made me almost regret bringing the mono-attacking Scald Suicune, but it is what it is. If anything, Iceolate brought both Defoggers in Zapdos and Archeops, so the suspicion of such changes were confirmed. In terms of potential leads, kinda wanted to threaten out either the Azumarill, M-Lopunny, or Rhyperior, I went with Chesnaught. 

The Battle: Crocodile Tears

So I lead off with Chesnaught, as Iceolate has Archeops has a lead, so already I'm in a unfortunate position. Kinda forced to go to Suicune, so as Chesnaught switches, the Archeops reveals Toxic to badly poison one of my walls. Turn 3 I decide to go on a "double switch" into Sylveon predicting either Zapdos/Heliolisk to come and get some decent board position. Problem is as I switch to Sylveon, Jonah sends in Azumarill, so now I'm in another corner. Didn't anticipate the Fairy-type match this early on and really don't have any switches. Make a questionable play an go for Hyper Voice instead of Fake Tears to gauge the damage, maybe hope I don't get over 50% damage if it is Sitrus Berry BD. Instead, the Azumarill switches for Zapdos, and doesn't take the uninvested Hyper Voice as well. Don't see any Leftovers, so maybe this is an offensive variant Zapdos, or a Yache Berry. Here I decide to reveal Fake Tears from Sylveon onto Zapdos, as it goes for an Agility, possibly confirming its a Baton Pass set. 

Now we put Jonah in a interesting position as something has to take a Hyper Voice, otherwise Zapdos dies and we can start setting up hazards. Archeops is sent out, takes the Pixilate Hyper Voice thanks to its Focus Sash, and now is at 1%...so I'm thinking this is might be an Endeavor lead. Again, since I don't have a response to Endeavor, Sylveon has to take the hit and be effectively sacked. Thankfully Jonah goes for Rocks and we pick off the Rock-/Flying-type with another Hyper Voice. Mega Lopunny is sent out, and I'm wonder, "What is he planning?" Don't know if this was a misplay or he got timed out, but basically all what comes about this is Sylveon netting another Hyper Voice kill against the Lopunny as it goes for Toxic instead. 

With two offensive threats out of the way, especially the Mega Lopunny, I knew this battle is favorable until we manage to OHKO Zapdos and Azu. Speaking of Azumarill, the blue rabbit is sent out and figure well Sylveon has done its job, so lets go for the Fake Tears. As Play Rough does heavy damage to Sylveon, it manages to drop the special defense by -2 and I figure out this Azumarill has speed investment, though how much don't know. With Sylveon gone, we take this opportunity to send in Nidoking, and possibly net our kill as Azumarill can't take a Poison Jab without the Poison-reducing Berry. Here Iceolate makes the sack for Heliolisk as Nidoking Poison Jabs... and the lizard lives at 12%!

Immediately I checked if we do have the Life Orb, or Sheer Force on Nidoking in case it was a mistake on part, and we do. So why is this Heliolisk alive? Only explanation was Heliolisk has 252 HP  or 252 Def, which can explain this situation. Regardless, I'm kinda forced to sack a Charizard X as it doesn't do much for the battle, and possibly were down Heliolisk with Life Orb recoil, assuming it has it. As we make the Charizard sack, Heliolisk reveals the Life Orb, so I decide to Synthesis recover the STAB Hyper Voice damage from Heliolisk to knock itself out. Even though this works out, thinking about it now should have sent in Latias to revenge kill, as a crit Hyper Voice with rocks damage  OHKOs Chesnaught, which was something I didn't think of.

Azumarill is sent out on Jonah's side, so I decide not to risk this and get the Wood Hammer damage off for someone else to pick off the Water/Fairy-type. Chesnaught outspeeds the Azumarill, and actually one shots it with the STAB Wood Hammer, thus making this battle achievable late game now. Turns out Wood Hammer was a roll whether it kills or not, so we don't know how much was it in our favor. Regardless, Zapdos is sent out and I decide to sack the Chesnaught to the incoming HP Flying / Ice / Heat Wave, yet it goes for Agility. Did go for Synthesis in case Zapdos doesn't kill me off, but this allows Chesnaught to stay  in the game and spam Super Fangs. As Zapdos Baton Passes out, we manage to Super Fang the incoming Rhyperior, inflicting 50% HP. Unless I'm forgetting something here, Wood Hammer should OHKO Rhyperior at this range, as it does.

Now its basically Zapdos versus the world, but it can still pull this back. The goal for this end game was to scout for the remaining moveslots on Zapdos, lock it with Choice Scarf with Latias, and end the game with the appropriate Pokemon. Lock in an Electric move means Nidoking wins. Locked into Heat Wave/HP Ice Suicune wins via a Scalds. Turns out Zapdos didn't have any attacking moves as it reveals Defog and Roost, meaning I definitely have to Choice Lock it with Trick. As Latias Tricks the Zapdos, I knew this series was effectively over. To end on a funny note, I decide to go for the Healing Wish, because ....why now. Actually this was just to ensure I don't "misclick", and give Jonah back his Zapdos's item which was Yache Berry, while remaining locked into a non-damaging move. Nidoking faints the Zapdos with Ice Beam and well we advance into the Finals for the CIL League. 

Afterthoughts

Before the semi finals started, Iceolate did mention he wasn't ready on the time I did respond to one of his messages on the CIL Chat on Twitter. He didn't feel to confident in the battle, but later on changed his mind to battle on that same day to get it over with. On that note, I do apologize for rushing my opponent into battle, though Jonah did made some interesting calls with both movesets and even EVs spreads. Don't want to question the plays in the battle too much, though if I had to nitpick one, it has to be when Jonah sent in Mega Lopunny to Toxic Sylveon, instead of going straight into Azumarill. I too am liable with some misplays and poor calls by leading Chesnaught, the miss prediction early game, and the now-weird play to leave in Chesnaught to Heliolisk if it indeed crit. 

Yes I know I'm nitpicking, but we'll leave it at that. What's important is we manage to get a win against Iceolate and now advance to the Finals for the first time in a different league. Jonah did present everyone a good game in the series, so not going to complain about it, especially if he makes YT videos for both these leagues matches.  Well now that we are in the final battle, we are up against ...

CBRANGAME of the Bentonville Blastoise with a 9-1 record. Well this was the Finals matchup that most people in the CIL League predicted, though not the exact details. Chase did have a rather difficult start in the Semifinals as well, but managed to beat Darby (using the Poison Sting team), and advance to face me. The only thing I'll "spoil" in this page is that the time I take to prepare to the CIL Finals is alot shorter an happens during the same week. Note playoffs lasted for one week which is kinda surprising considering the pace of the battles. 

Going to try my best to get the finals up ASAP during this week. For that article, I'm going to discuss in great detail about I prepared for the Finals, the way I prepared, and of course, my thought process going into the battle with play by plays. Well basically what I've been doing since almost last year since starting the thing. Look forward for that!

PFA Season 3 Finals: VS Epiclolz + Current Events

(Artist: Sa-Zurri)

Note: The following is the PFA Season 3 Finals from my perspective in terms of teambuilding, possible matchups preparation, my team analysis, the battle itself, and any thoughts I remember. No play-play of the battle, as spoilers, it was a long slug fest, but no disrespect to my opponent at all. Anyone reading will understand what I mean once at the main summation of the battle. This Finals is from around the "4th of July weekend", so obviously not going to recall every detail, and of course, this is from my viewpoint so can't say much about my opponent, aside things we talked about. That said, here's the S3 Finals!

Preview

The Los Angeles Nidokings are now on the verge of a second title shot and possibly "repeating" in the same league after winning way back in February. By the time the Nidokings, or I beaten PxGKashHoward in a rather convincing fashion, the outcome of the Mesa Macargos (GingerxPug) versus the Indy Latis (Epiclolz) was unknown. It was only a day after my semis they were ready to due battle and I contemplated, and even attempted to prepared for both of them. On the matchup perspective, the Nidokings had not only "swept" the Mesa Macargos in Week 5, but possibly improved odds since that eventful win. Recent transaction as well as the main offensive threats like Mega Altaria and Manaphy made this possible finals matchup somewhat easier to prepare to, but couldn't take my opponent for granted.  Ginger has stronger faster threats like Weavile, Krookodile, Mega Manetric, and Torrent Greninja, but lacked clear walls. If Ginger had chance to beat me, I suspected he'd attempt to go hyper offensive, but in such a scenario his main sweepers didn't have the fire power to bypass my team's bulk. (Look here for comparisons).

On the other hand, (sorry Ginger), Epic had the matchup advantage against Ryan, and even me given his entire team was a mixed of defensive walls paired with strong wall breakers (will get to those individual Pokemon later). My first battle against Epic, he could have won...but one of my frailer Pokemon (Torrent Greninja) survived a boosted Earthquake to OHKO his +1 Tyrantrum. Game 2 was evenly match, but as soon as I got my Volt Turn momentum going, the team was slowly able to pick off his team, unitl it was just a Specs Latias left. Despite that loss, Epic didn't let up. In fact, he won the rest of the last seasonal weeks, beat Kyle (ItalianG62) 's stacked team, and then beat the 2nd seed in Ginger. 

It didn't surprise me Epiclolz was able to beat Ginger in both games rather convincingly, considering Epic didn't many any "bad plays". Though I can't recall what transpired, Epic consistently threaten and maintain pressure against Ginger to the point he had lost most of his own heavy hitters. And this happen....

(Never lock yourself into Shadow Ball with a Scarf Ditto...still this shit was hilarious to watch)

And so .... I have to battle Epic....yayyy....(I'm going to hate this)

ROUND 3 / PFA SEASON 3 FINALS VS INDY LATIS (EPICLOLZ)

Indy Latis: Mega Camerupt, Latias, Terrakion, Scizor, Milotic, Galvantula, Porygon2, Tyrantrum, Amoonguss, Slowking, Mismagius, Kecleon, and Liepard

LA Nidokings: Manaphy, Mega Altaria, Victini, Gengar, Roserade, Zapdos, Gyarados, Flygon, Bronzong, Aerodactyl. Mesprit, Miltank, Articuno

Preparing for this battle was by no means simple since this was the finals. Best out of three. Do or die. Win or go home...even though Epic and I will be "at home". Pep talk aside, we both worked, team built, and battled all 16-17 games for this moment, and I wasn't planning on losing this potential second title. The matchup on both ends was rather interesting to say the least. Both of us had ways to neutralize key threats, but Epic had the edge with offensive powerhouses like Terrakion, Tyranitrum, Scizor, and the unorthodox  Mega Camerupt. Even from the defensive standpoint, Epic's core lead by his infamous Porygon2, Amoonguss, Slowking, Milotic, and sometimes Latias ensure he has walls/pivots to always fall back to. Galvantula was another X factor in this battle as I'm technically forced to bring a Defog user into this matchup as the minus one speed drops almost helped Epic beat me the first time we battled this season. Finally we get to the three "unusual" Pokemon, but can still do a decent amount of work in Mismagius, Protean Kecleon, and the Prankster Liepard who all had decent niches roles. 

When doing the initial preparations for this battle, I knew Epic had the "Speed initiative" given his five Pokemon with a base speed of 105-110, a Galvantula who can setup Sticky Webs, and lastly, the Trick Room potential with Mega Camerupt and Amoonguss leading the charge. No matter what, Epic kinda always had the speed advantage, or speed control majority of the time so I had to build my "Finals" team with just low speed benchmarks like Tyranitrum, Milotic, and Scizor.  Possibly most of the team prep came regarding "defensive investments" as most of my Finals team had enough speed investments and had enough points to spare. Cannot stress how important this was as almost anything on Epic's team can deal good chip damage over time, while have something like Terrakion or Mega Camerupt sweep through. 

Judging by the two battles we faced, Epic "brought" Latias, Galvantula, and Tyrantrum (the dinosaur that almost Head Smash swept me), and chances were likely he'd bring either two of the three. Porygon2 and Amoonguss were the next two defensive Pokemon Epic would likely bring considering how "dominate" P2's performance was during Epic's later half of the season (plus playoffs), and the mushroom's ability to wall a plethora of threats including Manaphy and Mega Altaria. The last two or three Pokemon to me were honestly up in the air, however Terrakion, Mega Camerupt, and regular Scizor can easily provide the offense for Epic. If there was one Pokemon I'd absolutely feared, it was definitely Terrakion as it outspeed all my mons, hit them with neutral Rock-/Fighting-type coverage, and if it setups a Sword Dance....I lose in an instant. 

For the team I'd brought, immediately Manaphy, Zapdos, and Bronzong (which I regret bringing) were the main "basis" of the Finals team. All three of these Pokemon were bulky enough to perform their respective roles, take as much punishment from Epic's offens as possible, and pretty much be the main backbone of the team, in case shit goes wrong. Essentially after those three mons, kinda experienced a bit of "writers's block", but in terms of team build as almost everything I thought, Epic has a counter measure. Funny enough, Gengar, Gyarados, and even Victini were immediately scrapped as most of them needed considerable support for setup, were "too frail" against Epic's offense, and actually got walled out. Victini was the mon I wanted to bring the most, however V-Create was moreso a hindrance, given I'd probably forced to switch out every turn and give Epic momentum. Even with all the multiple Victini sets from standard Choice Band, to AV, to some random Magic Coat set to "block" Sticky Webs, reality set in that Victini wasn't going to be brought given the rather 50/50 matchup. 

By the time it was Friday, I still had just those three Pokemon mention above, along with like six Pokemon to fill in the remaining three spots. The only Pokemon which intrigued me at the time was Flygon, Mega Altaria, Roserade, and possibly Mesprit. By the time it was midnight going into Sunday, my Finals team was prepared, but doubts arose. The 1st team I relied heavily on setting up Spikes with Roserade to wear down Epic's team, but the the problem was Roserade had somewhat of four move slot syndrome (I'll explain later). Not mention, Epic still has Defog himself on two potential users in Latias (most likely) and Scizor (kinda but possible). Mesprit eventually rose up to take the last slot, but I'll be the first to say, that was probably the biggest mistake I'd made, or the best....

The Finals Team

Bloo (Manaphy) @ Leftovers  
Ability: Hydration  
Level: 50  
EVs: 228 HP / 76 Def / 4 SpA / 76 SpD / 124 Spe  
Bold Nature  
IVs: 0 Atk  
- Scald  
- Calm Mind  
- Rain Dance  
- Rest  

Milestones:
-Outspeed Jolly Tyranturm by one point.
-Takes a +1 Adamant Head Smash from Tyrantrum.
-Takes two Close Combats/Stone Edge from Terrakion (Jolly and non-boosted)
-Download isn't activated after 1 CM boost (important)

Well Bloo... if there was a battle I absolutely needed it to perform 100% well, its definitely this one. Originally wanted to run Tail Glow with some coverage moves, but figured Manaphy can serve as a pseudo wall as very little on my team can take most of Epic's offense aside Bloo. This set is a RIP from the standard CM Rain which abuses Hydration, but the only thing is Bloo has to at a certain boost, with decent HP, and Rain up to be able potentially wall break Epic. Scald was opted over Surf to inflict crucial burn chip damage as well as possibly save my ass in case Bloo gets frozen (since we all know what happens to a frozen Manaphy right). The thought did occur of Epic pulling the same Psych Up shenanigans against Kash's CM Suicune, but crunch for time, I focus on only getting one or two boosts. For this set to work, Amoonguss had to be "dealt with",  so figured I bring other Pokemon who can support Bloo in dealing chip damage against the opposing team.  


mjölnir (Zapdos) @ Leftovers  
Ability: Pressure  
Level: 50  
EVs: 220 HP / 4 Def / 4 SpA / 156 SpD / 124 Spe  
Calm Nature  
IVs: 0 Atk  
- Volt Switch  
- Heat Wave  
- Toxic  
- Roost  

Milestones:
-Enough Speed to outspeed Jolly Tyranturm
-Can take two Consecutive Draco Meteors from Life Orb Latias.
-Ice Beam from non-invested Porygon2 is a 4HKO. (3HKO if Modest)
-Download isn't activated for SpA as Porygon2 can 2HKO Zapdos

Sorta figured Zapdos was going to be my main pivot Pokemon for this battle given Epic's draft is mainly special attackers. Another contributing factor into using Specially Defensive Zapdos was it feared only main physical Rock-type attackers in Terrakion and Tyranturm, while Scizor is moderately countered. What made me chose Zapdos immediately out of the three of my mons was its potential to wall some of Epic's main special attackers, spread some Toxic status, and just pressure stall him. Volt Switch was opted as Thunderbolt didn't achieve notable 2HKOs, but Volt Switch allows for potential switch initiative, unless Epic blocks this with Mega Camerupt. The use of Volt Turn was probably one of the reason why in my 2nd game with Epic, he had a harder time dealing with my mons as I kept momentum, doing chip damages with Spikes, and maintaining the right matchups. Figured if I can try to replicate the same type of success as before.


Flora (Altaria-Mega) @ Altarianite  
Ability: Natural Cure  
Level: 50  
EVs: 244 HP / 100 Def / 16 SpA / 148 SpD  
Sassy Nature  
IVs: 30 SpA / 30 Spe  
- Return  
- Flamethrower  
- Hidden Power [Water]  
- Roost  

Milestones:
-Takes an Iron Head from Terrakion
-Takes a two Flash Cannons M-Camerupt and two LO Bullet Punches in "Non-Mega" Form
-Pixilate Return OHKOs Terrakion, Latias, and Tyrantrum (after rocks) 
-Pixilate Hyper Voice doesn't get the OHKO on the Terrakion/Latias, but against Tyrantrum.
-Download doesn't trigger SpA raise (ok I think you are seeing a pattern)

Possibly the most WTF and maybe worse Mega Altaria set I've used all season. The Milestone explanations kinda says it all, but let me elaborate. This Mega Altaria has to gets the OHKOs on Terrakion and Latias period. The usual standard Hyper Voice set doesn't achieve this as both can live with moderate investment, or possibly AV. Running this "mixed" set might convince Epic that I'm either a Physically, or Specially-oriented Mega Altaria as usually the rare mix set is used, but with Earthquake for Steel-types. Flamethrower was opted instead of Fire Blast to consistently hit Scizor and Amoonguss for super effective damage against would be responses. HP Water is there for the Mega Camerupt as my team didn't have a decent "counter", but I realized something.... what if....

....I don't Mega Evolve my Altaria at all? Technically speaking for this season, the standard first turn Mega Evolve rule was removed, but as long as the Pokemon itself was carrying the Mega Stone item, not any other item. There have been multiple uses of  people using their non-mega forms, with the reason case with Altaria setting up a Dragon Dance on a Heatran as it uses Flash Cannon. Now I'm taking this to a whole new level. 

Altaria in its regular form can wall Mega Camerupt... provided Epic doesn't bring Ancient Power. Sheer Force-boosted Earth Power can touch my regular Altaria thanks to its part "Flying-type".Bullet Punch from Scizor will deal neutral damage as will Sludge Bombs from Amoonguss. Heck even Natural Cure can help Mega Altaria by "absorbing" status like Spore and Thunder Wave. Guess one can say this Altaria has a muli- purpose role to be the main "glue" of this team, and honestly I won't have thought of without further testing. 


Gatekeeper (Bronzong) @ Light Clay  
Ability: Levitate  
Level: 50  
EVs: 244 HP / 12 Atk / 188 Def / 4 SpA / 60 SpD  
Relaxed Nature  
IVs: 0 Spe  
- Stealth Rock  
- Gyro Ball  
- Reflect  
- Light Screen  

Milestone: 
-Takes 3 Head Smashes from Adamant Tyantrum
-Takes 2 Close Combats From Jolly Terrakion.
-Just there for Latias....

Perhaps the most "restricted" member of the team. I absolutely didn't want to bring Bronzong, however with the teams plagued weakness in Ice-type offensively, and it weakness to an offensive Latias, my Steel/Psychic-type had to be brought. Light Clay Screens was brought once again to supplement the team's defense, though I "lacked" a strong offensive wall break aside the "slow" CM Bloo to abuse. The rest of the moveset is self - explanatory as Rocks are my onl hazards and Gyro Ball is to 2HKO Terrakion, Latias, and Tyrantrum. Again didn't want to bring Bronzong...but with the lack of Dragon-, Psychic, and Rock-type resists on the current roster, there was no reason not to.


Spirit (Mesprit) @ Safety Goggles  
Ability: Levitate  
Level: 50  
EVs: 236 HP / 68 Def / 4 SpA / 196 SpD / 4 Spe  
Calm Nature  
- Psychic  
- U-turn  
- Thunder Wave  
- Healing Wish  

Milestones:
-.........
-I don't know
-Well it doesn't trigger Download...right?

Mesprit was extremely last minute given I'd realize the team had four Pokemon weak to Ice-type attacks and still lacked some responses for Latias. Pretty much the goal of this Mesprit set was to Thunder Wave as many "fast" stuff as possible, U-Turn for momentum, and finally sacrifice itself for Healing Wish. Out of all the times Mesprit was brought, only two time this season I'd brought Healing Wish, however this was no exception. The idea for Healing Wish occurred when I realized "what if" one I still need one of my mons like Manaphy or Mega Altaria for the late game and have a lingering half HP Mesprit that's might be useless. Still was uncertain about this change, but I felt Healing Wish support was far more important than Spikes from Roserade (I'll get to Why...I even considered that...)


Lucina (Flygon) (F) @ Choice Scarf  
Ability: Levitate  
Level: 50  
Shiny: Yes  
EVs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 4 Def / 12 SpD / 236 Spe  
Jolly Nature  
- Earthquake  
- Outrage  
- U-turn  
- Defog  

Milestones
-Outspeeds most non scarf mons.
-Doesn't Trigger Download SpA raise (for the 5th time)

Aside Bronzong, Scarf Flygon was the other Pokemon that was "there", but at least to outspeed most of Epic's mons. Moveset is a classic bread-and-butter Flygon, though I need to be careful if facing a Trace Porygon2. Most of the time Flygon is going for U-Turn, but if there's a scenario where STAB Outrage can finish the rest of the opposing team, I'll go for it. Defog is on there just as filler, in case Sticky Webs was brought. Last thing to point out is Flygon's Levitate ability should enable it to "bypass" the Sticky Webs and keep its speed boost from Choice Scarf. Not much to say though I'd expect Flygon to come clutch late game. 


The "Other" Pokemon

Indigo (Roserade) @ Leftovers  
Ability: Technician  
Level: 50  
EVs: 204 HP / 36 Def / 40 SpA / 20 SpD / 208 Spe  
Modest Nature  
IVs: 0 Atk / 30 SpA / 30 Spe  
- Dazzling Gleam  / Grass Knot
- Hidden Power [Fire]  
- Synthesis  
- Spikes

Kinda forgot the milestones for this Roserade set, but it can mainly outspeed the Tyranturm and take some Sludge Bombs from an Amoonguss. Definitely this was the one Pokemon I worked on the most aside the multiple Victini sets given how "weak" Epic's team was to Spikes. Part of the initial plan was to "hazard stack with Roserade / Bronzong and attempt to wall out or pretty much Semi Stall Epic's team until it was time to bring in Bloo. Synthesis was opted to 1v1 the Amoonguss and setup Spikes against this as other mons can easily beat Rose. What made me doubt Roserade potential in this battle was the potential "Defog" factor. After winning the 2nd matchup against Epic with Spikes and some Volt Turn maneuvering, there was a legitimate chance either Latias or Scizor was going carry Defog to prevent the same strategy.  Against the Scizor, Roserade can beat it easily with a Technician HP Fire itself, but Latias was a different story.  Latias pretty much has free rain on Roserade and it can either Defog hazards, or attack one of my following Pokemon like Bronzong on the switch in. I will say this, changing Roserade, especially this late into the team preparation was rather dumb on my end, and I'll get to "why" that is. 

ROUND 3 FINALS

Team Preview and Pre-Game Mindset

My Team: Manaphy, Mega Altaria, Zapdos, Flygon, Mesprit, Bronzong

Epic's Team: Latias, Scizor, Porygon2, Amoonguss, Slowking, and Tyranturm

Immediately note the lack of Terrakion, Galvantula, and Mega Camerupt and breath in a huge sigh of relief. As expected Epic brought Latias, Porygon2, Amoonguss, and the Tyrantrum as Those were the mons I prepared for the most. Scizor was there, but given my direct counter is Zapdos and Altaria can stay in its regular form, it was a non issue. If anything, completely forgot about Slowking as it was the one last transaction Epic made before entering playoffs and it actually formed a decent regenerator core with Amoonguss. After like a minute reviewing his team, Zapdos was the primary lead for both games as I can Volt Switch out and possibly Toxic something. Will like to say this one last thing, I won't do a PLAY-BY-PLAY. Instead going to summarize what happen in Games 1 and 2 into bullets discussing my thoughts. Spoilers: both games totaled took 129 turns total on the cartridge. 

Game 1: 2N3G - WWWW - WW4C - UNNJ
(Highly Recommend Anyone Watch Both Games)

1. No Ducktales Here: Missing Toxic is always fun against Porygon2, especially on turn 1 of the series. As expected, Porygon2 does have the Download ability to possibly raise its Special Attack, but most of my team has its EVs into Special Defense to avert the boosts.  Strangely enough, Porygon2 was almost a "non-factor" throughout the series given Epic never used Recover once and got pressured / forced out many times. It was mostly there to take hits, T-Wave stuff, but never did much.
2. Amoonguss has Quick Claw.... WTF is this shit. Ok I'm not going to lie, Quick Claw Amoonguss was the single most annoying thing I didn't think of, or prepare for. Now I have to worry about one of my Mons getting put to sleep with Quick Claw and this forced me into Mesprit on many occasions. This also puts the potential CM Bloo matchup in jeopardy, as I'll explain later. 
3.  Bronzong Limbo. Well for some reason, I forgot to click Stealth Rocks in this battle, possibly might have mitigate the entirety of the battle. Also the lack of moves to hit both Slowking and Amoonguss with Psychic/Toxic was a pain. The Light Clay Light Screen / Reflect did prove helpful in mitigating Epic's own offense, heck ensuring Zapdos's survival at one point. 
4.  The Slowking - Amoonguss Wall; This is what I get for not paying attention to Smogon for almost one years and a half now, and should have figured this was a possible core Epic bring. The lack of strong attackers like Victini,  Gengar, or even Gyarados allowed these two Pokemon to thrive against my team and let them do what they want. Pretty much the game plan was to "faint" one of these two Pokemon as it was the essential backbone of the Indy Latis... speaking of which...
5. Scout for Latias Moveset: Every time the female Eon Dragon hit the battlefield, it became my priority to scout for her moveset, and possibly neutralize it with damage or Paralysis. By the time it was extremely late game, only three moves were shown in STAB Psyshock, Shadow Ball for Bronzong, and Ice Beam for my mostly Ice-type weak team. It did occur to me what was Epic's last moveslot, especially with Latias's Item being Life Orb. The last moveslot could have been either Healing Wish, Recover/Roost, Defog, or something much different, but this did assured me later on in Game 2.
6. Almost Lost Zapdos: As the title explains, almost lost Zapdos due to residual damage from the Scald burn + the combination of Knock Off  and Bullet Punch from Scizor. If it wasn't for the Reflect, I think Zapdos might have died right there, but we manage to Roost off the damage, and get a surprise OHKO with Heat Wave against Scizor.
7. Mega Altaria is Shut Down: Thanks to the Regen Duo that is Amoonguss and Slowking, I'm not able to Wall-Break against Epic's team. Flamethrower does almost crap, same with Return, and HP Water is effectively a dead moveslot. There was a few turns where I'd manage to Flamethrower an Amoonguss (get a crit) and hit the Slowking in the process, but the Thunder Wave paralysis soon gets to Mega Altaria, removing my last bastions of defense. 
8. Regretting the Roserade Drop... Without Roserade to setup Spikes and threaten Amoonguss and maybe Slowking to a degree, they'll manage to receive more HP as they switch in. If I had brought Rose and potentially setup to three layer of Spikes (unlikely but possible), the Epic's Regen core wouldn't recover as much as they did. Probably would have mitigate the whole length of the battles, especially the lack of Black Sludge Amoonguss on Epic's end. 
9. Well....  it becomes apparent to me the only way to win this battle was to setup Calm Minds with Bloo, somehow maintain rain up to prevent any Spore shenanigans thanks to Hydration, and hope Amoonguss doesn't get something crazy like consecutive Quick Claws or crits. For this scenario to work, the Amoonguss needs be significant damaged, and maybe have some full paralysis turns. The only problem is I have to switch out in on the last turn of rain to Zapdos/Mesprit to prevent the Spore. There are multiple engagements between Manaphy and Amoonguss in this battle, but most of them end with Bloo retreating.
10. "Bob the Destroyer": One point in the battle, Bloo gets paralyzed by the Slowking, and Epic tries to setup on it via switching into Tyranturm and possibly work off the paralysis to end the game. Forunately for me, 1) Bloo setups the Rain to cure the paralysis, 2) can 2HKO Tyrantrum now, and 3) can take a +1 Adamant Head Smash, provided it wasn't paired with another item. Thankfully no crits, Tyranturm fails to OHKO Bloo as it 2HKOs it with the Rain-boosted Scald. 
11. Healing Wish Time: With Bloo at near death, I figured it was time to reveal my tech move for this battle. Decide to sack Bronzong to the incoming Latias's Shadow Ball. After forcing out Latias with my Choice Scarf Flygon, I manage to get the matchup between Slowking and Mesprit, which then I use Healing Wish. Now Bloo is back in the game at 100% HP, but still time is running out...
12. The Timer War: At this point, there was only about 20 mintutes left on the timer, and realized Epic can win based on this as part of the league ruling. The Amoonguss - Slowking core was still intact, Latias could have Roost, and Porygon2 can recover so if Epic was playing for time, he definitely played it well enough. Now I have to figure how to reverse this in my favor as the score was "tied 4-4", but clear in Epic's favor.
13. One Final Effort: With time running down, I figured the only way to "win" this game was to beat the Amoonguss, and possibly faint as many things with a boosted Bloo as possible. Thanks to some eventful paralysis and Heat Waves on Zapdos's end, I'm finally able to get the Amoonguss at around 50% HP.
14. Breakthrough: After setting up Rain and getting to +1/2 CM, Bloo manages to beat the half HP Amoonguss in a Scald - Giga Drain exchange, thought at being reasonable low HP. Thankfully not one turn when Epic used Spore on Bloo did the Quick Claw didn't activate, which if it did would have gave Epic the win.
15. The Final Stand and Time: Latias is sent out and Bloo is almost low HP, so I figured it was fine to sack it off to the incoming Psyshock. For some reason, Bloo lives the attack, and manages to get a Scald Burn, severely reducing Latias HP to where LO + Burn + Scald will faint, if I mange to live. In a strange twist, Epic goes for Ice Beam on Bloo the Manaphy, freezes me, but it Scalds to faint the Latias. Now the game is 4-2 in my favor with less than three minutes on the clock. Even if Epic manages to crit Bloo, my best play was to technically timer stall the last few turn with Rest, and end the the game in a timer win. It wasn't easy at all, but we manage to steal that game from Epic which puts us in a good positioning to take either Game 2 or Game 3.

Game 2: PC2G - WWWW - WW4C - UNS8

1. Rinse and Repeat (with Crits): Well repeat points 1-5 and 7-9 from Game 1, as this basically all happens of this same crap occurs about 20 turns in. The only difference is I lose Mesprit and Bronzong too early on due to a couple of crits. 
2. But before Bronzong / Mesprit Dies.... Lets get some Stealth Rocks on the field, and T-Wave the Amoonguss. Should have setup Rocks in the first place to get off some residual damage. As for going for paralysis on Amoonguss again, it was mainly to get some eventful hax going. 
3. When in Doubt, Volt Turn it Out: With our backs turned against the wall down 6-4, felt it was time to get some Volt-Turn action going, and surprisingly this works out in my favor by doing residual damage and the consistent Stealth Rocks switches. This ends as soon as Slowbro tanks an incoming EQ from Flygon, but Porygon2 is really low as a result of this. 
4. Staring Down a Dragon: Now I tried to setup with CMs Rain Dance with Bloo against the Latias. Tested the waters to see if this was a 4-attack Life Orb Latias with Thunderbolt, but it seems like STAB Psyshock is the only move to hit me with. From this process, Bloo gets to +2 CM and eventually faces a half HP Amoonguss. 
5. Bloo vs One Final Hi: Thankfully the Quick Claw doesn't activate, Bloo is able to setup Rain Dance and begin the slow process it started last game. Everything almost went to plan, bar the Amoonguss critting Bloo and the game now banking on a high roll or crit on my end. As Bloo Scalds the Amoonguss at around 31% HP, and I do get the high roll. Now the tides have definitely turned in my favor.
6. Bloo's Rampage: With Amoonguss finally gone, Bloo can do some quick work to Epic's team. Immediately Epic calls in Scizor, however after doing some Calcs, a +2 Rain-boosted Scald easily OHKOs Scizor with Rocks. I go for the attack and Scizor as well drops to the Scald as the score is now 4-3 in my favor. Latias is sent back in, but its considerably low to where +2 Scald (no rain) and LO recoil can faint the Eon Dragon. Without Roost to recover back HP, Epic is forced to commit with Latias's Psyshock, but fails to OHKO  Bloo. In retaliation, we managed to faint the Latias, and now the game is 4-2 in our favor. 
7. The "Other Dragon": As soon as Slowking is sent out, Bloo immediately goes for Rest as I knew it was extremely vital for winning the series, but this came with a "cost". I knew Epic's only chance to win the game was if he managed to setup two Dragon Dances from Tyranitrum, and sweep me from there. The remainder of the game was mostly double switches on both our parts, though my Volt Turn from Zapdos and Flygon is still intact. Tyranitrum finally gets to +1, and faints Mega Altaria with Head Smash, but is quickly routed by Scarf Flygon. Now its just a Slowking that can't setup vs a Manaphy, Pressure Zapdos with Toxic, and this... bug dragon (its ok Flygon you did something meaningful).
8. 47/62 Turns: At this point, both Epic and I knew it was over. There was nothing really Epic can do as I tried to end the battle with Bloo on a lasting note. Well maybe that wasn't the smartest idea, but at least we got some laughs out of it. 
9. Repeat: After 129 turns of rather stupid plays on my end, we managed to beat Epiclol in two games and win the Season 3 title. The Final Record Count is 20 Wins and 1 Loss.

Afterthoughts + Current Events

Not going to elaborate much about the finals, as both Epic and I played well even to the very end. We were both "exhausted" from thinking constantly on all our plays, games plans, and eventual end games. Will be the first to admit it to everyone in public Epic did "out prep" me in terms of the matchup, but it came down to whether who can last the longest. It was incredibly funny enough how we both dreaded either Mega Camerupt and Terrakion on my end, and Victini and Roserade on his. Both our teams were suited to tank any possible hits from each other, just that we might have over did it... Well if anyone wants to see Epic's team, here's a pastebin here.  

I'm not sure what the situation might be had Latias used Psyshock on Bloo late Game 1, maybe I've might lost as all my Pokemon were at low HP. Same thing goes for not selecting Roserade last minute as Spikes alone just rendered the Amoonguss / Slowking Regen core near useless, though I'm sure Epic can say the same thing if he brought Defog/Roost on Latias. While I definitely gave Epic a ton of crap about him running Quick Claw Amoonguss, if he had gotten off the Quick Claw Spore at any given point in the battle against Bloo, I'm certain he'd probably win in one of those games. Won't criticize it any further, though I'll admit it was random as fuck.

Well Good Games to Epiclolz as we complete the Season 3 run with a record of 20 wins and 1 loss. While I could post about Season 4, I can't. After doing about 9 Weeks into PFA Season 4, some circumstances rose which I felt took priority before the battles themselves. It definitely sucks I have to leave with another strong season in the works, just that time wasn't my ally. Like I can battle in almost every game, but in part of my success was the team preparations as it gives me ideas how to plan my battles. If only I can do this more so in standard play in both VGC or Singles, but at least I've enjoyed my time with Draft Leagues, as the Nidokings don't plan on joining for a time. 

Expect there be a CIL Playoffs coverage and one more update regarding some other stuff regarding the growth of this blogpost. All of this will be covered on October as we all get closer to the release of Su/Mo. Well guess that's it, until October I'll see you all around!