Haxorus (Analysis)

[muffinhead]

QC Approved: 2/2
GP Approved: 2/2


[Overview]

<p>Haxorus is blessed with the highest Attack stat in VGC and an amazing pure Dragon typing, but it must work around its middling Speed backed by only slightly above average bulk. The axe-face dragon learns many noteworthy spread moves in addition to powerful STAB moves. Haxorus's powerful attacks are backed by a great ability in Mold Breaker. This ability is all the more fantastic in VGC, as it allows Haxorus to hit Pokemon having the Levitate ability with Earthquake.</p>

[SET]
name: Physical Attacker
move 1: Protect
move 2: Dragon Claw
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Rock Slide
item: Haban Berry
nature: Jolly / Adamant
ability: Mold Breaker
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>This is Haxorus's most effective set thanks to its flawless coverage and monstrous Attack. Protect stops Fake Out and scouts the opponent's strategy. Dragon Claw is a solid STAB choice, especially due to the rarity of Steel-types in VGC. Rock Slide provides good coverage and breaks Focus Sashes while ignoring Rage Powder. Haxorus is just fast enough to benefit from Rock Slide's flinch rate. Bisharp and other Steel-types resist Rock Slide and Dragon Claw, but take tremendous damage from Earthquake. Haban Berry prevents Haxorus from being OHKOed by Hydreigon's Dragon Pulse and enemy Haxorus's attacks. These are the only common moves that can OHKO Haxorus, so Haban Berry is an extremely effective effective item.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>Life Orb could be used to hit bulkier foes much harder. Haxorus will appreciate Life Orb when facing Amoonguss, Conkeldurr, and Musharna. However, lacking Haban Berry leaves Haxorus completely at the mercy of enemy Hydreigon. An Adamant nature can be used, along with a bulkier EV spread to increase survivability against bulky Trick Room teams. When utilizing the bulky Adamant set, Taunt is a decent option to stop Musharna and Jellicent in their tracks.</p>

<p>Tornadus makes an excellent partner. It is immune to Haxorus's Earthquake and can set up Tailwind easily. Tornadus also takes out Amoonguss in one hit, a feat that Dragon Claw cannot accomplish.</p>

[SET]
name: Dragon Dance
move 1: Dragon Dance
move 2: Dragon Claw
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Rock Slide / Protect
item: Life Orb / Haban Berry
nature: Jolly
ability: Mold Breaker
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>The premise of this set is to grab one boost and attack. Haxorus sits at 97 base Speed, which is below the genies, Hydreigon, and many notable Pokemon. A single Dragon Dance allows Haxorus to outpace these major threats and boost its already monstrous attack to astronomical levels. This combination of enhanced power and speed, combined with excellent coverage and passable bulk, makes Haxorus a very threatening sweeper. Earthquake is the best choice for a spread attack, and hits the few Steel-types that resist Dragon Claw and Rock Slide. Rock Slide is Haxorus's most powerful attack against the genies, Volcarona, and Archeops. Life Orb increases Haxorus's damage output and compensates for Rock Slide's and Earthquake's reduced power when hitting both opponents. A Jolly nature with maximum Speed EVs is necessary in case Haxorus is unable to set up Dragon Dance.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>The EVs can be modified to allow Haxorus to survive specific attacks from threats, such as Hydriegon's Dragon Pulse. Haban Berry can also prolong Haxorus's time on the field. Haxorus can set up Dragon Dance in the face of Druddigon's Dragon Claw or Hydreigon's Dragon Pulse and KO back with a boosted Dragon Claw of its own. This single turn of protection is extremely valuable when one is looking to set up and sweep. Haxorus also learns Swords Dance, and could potentially use it instead of Dragon Dance in an attempt to smash through the metagame with brute strength. Haxorus's Swords Dance-boosted attacks will OHKO almost every Pokemon in VGC. Unfortunately, Haxorus's unaltered Speed and defensive stats are decidedly mediocre, giving it very little staying power. Without Tailwind support, abusing Swords Dance will be extremely difficult. Amoonguss or Volcarona can help Haxorus by using Rage Powder, allowing Haxorus to have a free turn to set up.</p>

[SET]
name: Choice
move 1: Dragon Claw
move 2: Earthquake
move 3: Rock Slide
move 4: Outrage / Dual Chop / X-Scissor
item: Choice Scarf / Choice Band
nature: Adamant
ability: Mold Breaker
evs: 36 HP / 252 Atk / 220 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>With a Choice Scarf equipped, Haxorus outspeeds every unboosted Pokemon in VGC. This strategy forgoes a turn of set up at the cost of being locked into one move. Choice Scarf allows Haxorus to outspeed and KO many of its checks, such as the genies, Hydreigon, Vanilluxe, and Terrakion. Choice Band is also viable, and helps Haxorus to muscle through basically every Pokemon. Rock Slide can 2HKO the genies and occasionally nabs valuable flinches. Earthquake is not a move one should use recklessly, as its effectiveness requires one to consider the presence of Flying-types on both teams. However, the ability to hit Levitate users with Earthquake still makes Mold Breaker the preferred ability.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>Keep in mind that Mold Breaker negates your own partner's Levitate or Telepathy. The last move should only be used in specific situations. Outrage should be used when all other moves have no chance of KOing the opponent's Pokemon. Essentially, it should only be used when Dragon Claw is simply too weak. Dual Chop is very valuable against weak Focus Sash and Substitute users. If neither of these moves appeal, X-Scissor hits Musharna and Whimsicott for more damage while maintaining solid coverage. An alternate EV spread of 4 HP / 252 Attack / 252 Speed with a Jolly nature should be used for the Choice Band set, to compensate for the the absence of Choice Scarf.</p>

<p>Haxorus loves having a Flying-type teammate, especially because Ice-types are not as common in VGC 2011. Tailwind helps out Haxorus immensely, especially when using Swords Dance. Tornadus is an excellent partner, as it is immune to Earthquake and can quickly set up Tailwind.</p>

[Other Options]

<p>An Adamant nature can be used to further increase Haxorus's power. HP EVs should be modified when using an Adamant nature to survive any specific attack that troubles Haxorus's team.</p>

[Checks and Counters]

<p>Bulky Pokemon that cannot be OHKOed by Haxorus, such as Musharna, Cofagrigus, and Amoonguss, can set up Trick Room in its face. Golurk has a lot of bulk and resists Rock Slide. Defensive Scrafty can take anything Haxorus throws at it (bar Swords Dance or Choice Band Outrage), and hit back with a super effective Ice Punch. Although rare, Choice Scarf Vanilluxe does a lot of damage with its STAB Ice-type attacks.</p>

 

[Alaka]

Again with this mon you need a set that doesn't involve boosting or Choice. Also there are far too many slashes in the first set, I think it should just be Dragon Dance with Swords Dance mentioned in OC. Also I don't think there is time for Taunt while you try to boost, and you need Rock Slide. Basically I think you should clean it up to this:

Move 1: Dragon Dance
Move 2: Dragon Claw
Move 3: Earthquake
Move 4: Rock Slide / Protect

Also the Choice Scarf set should just be a general Choice set and include stuff about Band. I don't think that Fake Out especially counters Ono either.

Things about Team Options for a specific set (for instance pairing DD Ono with shroom) should be in the additional comments section.

 

[Alaka]

QC Approved 1/2

Get the writing done soon.

 

[muffinhead]

Finished writing :D

 

[Huy]

QC Appoved: 2/2

 

[Chou Toshio]

add/change
delete

Hide

QC Approved: 2/2
GP Approved: 0/2


[Overview]

<p>Haxorus is blessed with the highest Attack in the tier, middling Speed, and decent bulk VGC and an amazing pure Dragon typing, but it must work around middling Speed backed by only slightly above average bulk. To add to this, it has an amazing pure Dragon typing. The axe-face dragon learns many important noteworthy multi-target moves as well as having great solid STAB choices in addition to great STAB attacks. On top of all of this, Haxorus gets These great attacks are backed by a great ability in Mold Breaker. This is a fantastic ability in VGC 2011 which that allows the dragon to hit Furijio Cryogonal, Hydreigon, and most importantly Eelektross with any move.</p>

[SET]
name: Physical Attacker
move 1: Protect
move 2: Dragon Claw
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Rock Slide
item: Haban Berry
nature: Jolly / Adamant
ability: Mold Breaker
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>This is Haxorus's most effective set due thanks to the its flawless coverage and monstrous attack. Protect stops Fake Out and scouts opponent's strategy. Dragon Claw is a solid STAB choice, especially due to lack of the rarity of Steel-types on the tier in VGC. Rock Slide provides good coverage, as well as and breaks ing sashes and while ignoring Rage Powder. Haxorus is just fast enough to benefit from Rock Slide's flinch rate. Bisharp and other Steels resist Rock Slide and Dragon Claw, making Earthquake the best choice to hit them but take tremendous damage from Earthquake. Haban Berry protects from prevents Haxorus from being OHKOed by Hydreigon's Dragon Pulse and enemy Haxorus's attacks. These are the only common moves that can OHKO Haxorus, so Haban Berry provides invaluable bulk an extremely effective defensive item.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>Life Orb is a possibility could be used to hit bulkier foes much harder. Haxorus will appreciate Life Orb when facing Amoonguss, Conkeldurr, and Musharna. However, lacking Haban Berry means that Hydreigon will outspeed and KO Haxorus easily leaves Haxorus completely at the mercy of enemy Hydreigon. An Adamant nature can be used, along with a bulkier EV spread to increase survivability against bulky Trick Room teams. If this is more appealing When utilizing the bulky Adamant set, Taunt is a decent option to stop Musharna and Jellicent in their tracks.</p>

<p>Musharna makes an excellent partner. It is immune to Haxorus' Earthquake and can use Helping Hand easily. Trick Room slows down Haxorus, but Musharna can reverse it Musharna can also negate an enemy's Trick Room with its own Trick Room. Furthermore, Musharna's Shadow Ball also hits common Trick Room setting Pokemon for heavy damage.</p>

[set]
Name: Dragon Dance
Move 1: Dragon Dance
Move 2: Dragon Claw
Move 3: Earthquake
Move 4: Rock Slide / Protect
Item: Life Orb / Haban Berry
Nature: Jolly
Ability: Mold Breaker
EVs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>The premise of this set is to grab one boost and attack. Haxorus sits at 97 base Speed, which is below the genies, Hydreigon, and many notable Pokemon. A single Dragon Dance bypasses all of these threats and then some, as well as boosting its already ridiculous Attack stat allows Haxorus to outpace these major threats and boost its already monstrous attack to astronomical levels. This combination of enhanced power and speed, together combined with great coverage and passable bulk, allows Haxorus to attempt a sweep makes Haxorus a very threatening sweeper. Earthquake is the best choice for a multi-target move, hitting and hits the few Steel types that resist Dragon Claw and Rock Slide. Rock Slide is the best choice against the genies, Volcarona, and Archeops. Life Orb increases damage output and compensates for Rock Slide and Earthquake's loss in reduced power in double battles. A Jolly nature with maximum Speed EVs is necessary in case Dragon Dance is not set up.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>The EVs can be modified so that to allow Haxorus can to survive specific attacks from threats, such as Hydriegon's Dragon Pulse. Haban Berry helps in this way too can also prolong Haxorus's time on the field. Haxorus can set up a Dragon Dance in the face of Druddigon's Dragon Claw or Hydreigon's Dragon Pulse and KO back with a boosted Dragon Claw of its own. This single turn of protection is extremely valuable when one is looking to set up and sweep. Swords Dance is another option instead of Dragon Dance. Swords Dance boosted attacks will OHKO virtually every Pokemon in the tier. However, with 97 base Speed and no Dragon Dance, many threats will outspeed Haxorus. Haxorus also learns Swords Dance, and could potentially use it instead of Dragon Dance in an attempt to smash through the metagame with brute strength. Swords Dance boosted attacks will OHKO almost every Pokemon in VGC. Unfortunately, Haxorus' unaltered Speed and defensive stats are decidedly mediocre, giving it very little staying power. Without Tailwind support, abusing Swords Dance will be extremely difficult. This means that Swords Dance is much harder to pull off than Dragon Dance (outside of Tailwind) Amoonguss or Volcarona can help out Haxorus by using Rage Powder, allowing Haxorus to have a free turn to set up. Haban Berry is worth mentioning to survive a Dragon attack and boost on the same turn.</p>

[SET]
name: Choice
move 1: Dragon Claw
move 2: Earthquake
move 3: Rock Slide
move 4: Outrage / Double Hit / X-Scissor
item: Choice Scarf / Choice Band
nature: Adamant
ability: Mold Breaker
evs: 38 HP / 252 Atk / 220 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>With a Choice Scarf equipped, Haxorus outspeeds every non-choiced unboosted Pokemon in the tier VGC. This strategy forgoes a turn of set up at the cost of being locked in to one move. Choice Scarf allows Haxorus to outspeed and KO many of its threats checks, like the genies, Hydreigon, Vanilluxe, and Terrakion. Another option is Choice Band is also viable, which and muscles through basically every Pokemon. Rock Slide can outspeed and 2HKO the genies, as well as providing flinches and inevitably nabs valuable flinches. Earthquake is not as easy to be locked in to, because it requires that you must have Flying type Pokemon on your team Earthquake is not a move one should use recklessly, as its effectiveness requires one to consider the presence of Flying-types on both teams. However, the ability to hit Levitate users hitting Levitaters with Earthquake still makes Mold Breaker the preferred ability.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>Keep in mind that Mold Breaker negates your own Pokemon Partner's with the abilities Levitate or Telepathy. The last move should only be used in specific situations. Outrage should be used when all other moves have no chance of KOing the opponent's Pokemon. Essentially, it should only be used when Dragon Claw is simply too weak. or if you need a lot more power than Dragon Claw provides. Double Hit is fun to ruin strategies that rely on a Focus Sash or Mischievous Heart Substitute user is very valuable against weak Focus Sash and Substitute users. If neither of these moves appeal, X-Scissor hits Musharna and Whimsicott for more damage while maintaining solid coverage. EVs for the Choice Band set should be 6 HP / 252 Attack / 252 Speed with a Jolly Nature to compensate for the lower Speed without Choice Scarf.</p>

<p>Haxorus loves having a Flying-type teammate, especially because Ice types are not as common in VGC 2011. Tailwind helps out Haxorus immensely, especially when using Swords Dance. Tornadus is an excellent partner, as it is immune to Earthquake and can quickly set up tailwind.</p>

[Other Options]

<p>An Adamant nature can be used to further increase Haxorus' power. HP EVs should be modified when using an Adamant nature to survive any specific attack that troubles your team.</p>

[Checks and Counters]

<p>Bulky Pokemon that cannot be OHKOd like Musharna, Cofagrigus, and Amoonguss can set up Trick Room in the face of Haxorus. Golurk has a lot of bulk and resists Rock Slide. Defensive Scrafty can take anything Haxorus throws at it (bar Swords Dance or Choice Band Outrage) and hit back with a Super-Effective super effective Ice Punch. Although rare, Choice Scarf Vanullixe does a lot of damage with Blizzard or Ice Beam.</p>

[Dream World]

<p>Haxorus receives Unnerve as its Dream World ability. This could be useful to make sure the opponent's type-weakening berries do not work, but overall Mold Breaker is the better option.</p>

1/2

 

[TorchicBlaziken]

Why not Dual Chop? The power ends up the same as Dragon Claw, and it can bypass Sturdy and Focus Sash, as well as having two chances for critical hits, in which situation it is more powerful than Dragon Claw. It also gets away with whaling on Counter Pokémon.

 

[kingofmars]

Why not Dual Chop? The power ends up the same as Dragon Claw, and it can bypass Sturdy, as well as having two chances for critical hits, in which situation it is more powerful than Dragon Claw.

But it can miss. That's litteraly the only reason why, and it's a big fucking reason.

 

[TorchicBlaziken]

And why Double Hit? That's a Normal-type move!

And Rock Slide has the exact same accuracy, so there's no excuse.

 

[breh]

rock slide also has the nifty ability to flinch and hit both opponents. I'd say it's worth it.

going to have to agree about double hit though, which is infinitely inferior to double chop in every possible way.

In fact, looking back, I think muffinhead meant to put double chop in the first place; I'm not sure why you would ever use double hit on anything other than ambipom.

Checks and counters: amoongus can set up TR?

 

[muffinhead]

rock slide also has the nifty ability to flinch and hit both opponents. I'd say it's worth it.

going to have to agree about double hit though, which is infinitely inferior to double chop in every possible way.

In fact, looking back, I think muffinhead meant to put double chop in the first place; I'm not sure why you would ever use double hit on anything other than ambipom.

Checks and counters: amoongus can set up TR?

do you even read what i write




i did get double hit and dual chop mixed up thanks everyone.



but seriously breludicolo, your post made no sense

 

[TorchicBlaziken]

Of course, Dual Chop has the nifty ability to have two crit chances and ignore Focus Sash.

But that's not what I just came here to post: With an Iron Ball, which is the Choice Scarf of Trick Room, Haxorus can be used in Trick Room.

(also I think you may know how much I hate the cloud gods being called genies in a professional analysis)

 

[Lee]

But that's not what I just came here to post: With an Iron Ball, which is the Choice Scarf of Trick Room, Haxorus can be used in Trick Room.

Why not just use Druddigon with a Life Orb/Choice Band/an item that is actually good?

 

[cosmicexplorer]

Haxorus can Fling the Iron Ball, although I'm not sure how effective that is. It seems to be the only reason to use it over Druddigon.

Of course, Dual Chop has the nifty ability to have two crit chances and ignore Focus Sash.

That doesn't mean anything if it doesn't hit both times, and reliability is what you need at regionals.

 

[Calm Pokemaster]

Deletions
Additions / Corrections
Comments

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[Overview]

<p>Haxorus is blessed with the highest Attack stat in the VGC and an amazing pure Dragon typing, but it must work around its middling Speed backed by only slightly above average bulk. The axe-face dragon learns many noteworthy multi-target moves spread attacks in addition to great powerful STAB moves. These great attacks Hydreigon's powerful attacks are backed by a great ability in Mold Breaker. This is a fantastic ability in VGC 2011 that allows the dragon to hit Cryogonal, Hydreigon, and Eelektross with any move. This ability is all the more fantastic in VGC, as it allows Haxorus to hit Pokemon having the Levitate ability with Earthquake.</p>

[SET]
name: Physical Attacker
move 1: Protect
move 2: Dragon Claw
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Rock Slide
item: Haban Berry
nature: Jolly / Adamant
ability: Mold Breaker
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>This is Haxorus's most effective set thanks to its flawless coverage and monstrous Attack. Protect stops Fake Out and scouts the opponent's strategy. Dragon Claw is a solid STAB choice, especially due to the rarity of Steel-types in VGC. Rock Slide provides good coverage and breaks Focus Sash while ignoring Rage Powder. Haxorus is just fast enough to benefit from Rock Slide's flinch rate. Bisharp and other Steel-types resist Rock Slide and Dragon Claw, but take tremendous damage from Earthquake. Haban Berry prevents Haxorus from being OHKOed by Hydreigon's Dragon Pulse and enemy Haxorus's attacks. These are the only common moves that can OHKO Haxorus, so Haban Berry is an extremely effective defensive item.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>Life Orb could be used to hit bulkier foes much harder. Haxorus will appreciate Life Orb when facing Amoonguss, Conkeldurr, and Musharna. However, lacking Haban Berry leaves Haxorus completely at the mercy of enemy Hydreigon. An Adamant nature can be used, along with a bulkier EV spread to increase survivability against bulky Trick Room teams. When utilizing the bulky Adamant set, Taunt is a decent option to stop Musharna and Jellicent in their tracks.</p>

<p>Tornadus makes an excellent partner. It is immune to Haxorus's Earthquake and can set up Tailwind easily. Tornadus also takes out Amoonguss in one hit, a feat that Dragon Claw cannot accomplish.</p>

[set]
Name: Dragon Dance
Move 1: Dragon Dance
Move 2: Dragon Claw
Move 3: Earthquake
Move 4: Rock Slide / Protect
Item: Life Orb / Haban Berry
Nature: Jolly
Ability: Mold Breaker
EVs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>The premise of this set is to grab one boost and attack. Haxorus sits at 97 base Speed, which is below the genies, Hydreigon, and many notable Pokemon. A single Dragon Dance allows Haxorus to outpace these major threats and boost its already monstrous attack to astronomical levels. This combination of enhanced power and speed, combined with great excellent coverage and passable bulk, makes Haxorus a very threatening sweeper. Earthquake is the best choice for a multi-target move spread attack, and hits the few Steel-types that resist Dragon Claw and Rock Slide. Rock Slide is the best choice Haxorus's most powerful attack against the genies, Volcarona, and Archeops. Life Orb increases Haxorus's damage output and compensates for Rock Slide's and Earthquake's reduced power in double battles when hitting both opponents. A Jolly nature with maximum Speed EVs is necessary in case Haxorus is unable to set up Dragon Dance is not set up.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>The EVs can be modified to allow Haxorus to survive specific attacks from threats, such as Hydriegon's Dragon Pulse. Haban Berry can also prolong Haxorus's time on the field. Haxorus can set up a Dragon Dance in the face of Druddigon's Dragon Claw or Hydreigon's Dragon Pulse and KO back with a boosted Dragon Claw of its own. This single turn of protection is extremely valuable when one is looking to set up and sweep. Haxorus also learns Swords Dance, and could potentially use it instead of Dragon Dance in an attempt to smash through the metagame with brute strength. Haxorus's Swords Dance-boosted attacks will OHKO almost every Pokemon in VGC. Unfortunately, Haxorus's unaltered Speed and defensive stats are decidedly mediocre, giving it very little staying power. Without Tailwind support, abusing Swords Dance will be extremely difficult. Amoonguss or Volcarona can help out Haxorus by using Rage Powder, allowing Haxorus to have a free turn to set up.</p>

[SET]
name: Choice
move 1: Dragon Claw
move 2: Earthquake
move 3: Rock Slide
move 4: Outrage / Dual Chop / X-Scissor
item: Choice Scarf / Choice Band
nature: Adamant
ability: Mold Breaker
evs: 38 HP / 252 Atk / 220 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>With a Choice Scarf equipped, Haxorus outspeeds every unboosted Pokemon in VGC. This strategy forgoes a turn of set up at the cost of being locked into one move. Choice Scarf allows Haxorus to outspeed and KO many of its checks, such as the genies, Hydreigon, Vanilluxe, and Terrakion. Choice Band is also viable, and helps Haxorus to muscle through basically every Pokemon. Rock Slide can 2HKO the genies and inevitably occasionally nabs valuable flinches. Earthquake is not a move one should use recklessly, as its effectiveness requires one to consider the presence of Flying-types on both teams. However, the ability to hit Levitate users with Earthquake still makes Mold Breaker the preferred ability.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>Keep in mind that Mold Breaker negates your own partner's Levitate or Telepathy. The last move should only be used in specific situations. Outrage should be used when all other moves have no chance of KOing the opponent's Pokemon. Essentially, it should only be used when Dragon Claw is simply too weak. Dual Chop is very valuable against weak Focus Sash and Substitute users. If neither of these moves appeal, X-Scissor hits Musharna and Whimsicott for more damage while maintaining solid coverage. EVs for the An alternate EV spread of 6 HP / 252 Attack / 252 Speed should be used for the Choice Band set should be 6 HP / 252 Attack / 252 Speed with a Jolly Nature to compensate for the lower Speed without the absence of Choice Scarf.</p>

<p>Haxorus loves having a Flying-type teammate, especially because Ice-types are not as common in VGC 2011. Tailwind helps out Haxorus immensely, especially when using Swords Dance. Tornadus is an excellent partner, as it is immune to Earthquake and can quickly set up Tailwind.</p>

[Other Options]

<p>An Adamant nature can be used to further increase Haxorus's power. HP EVs should be modified when using an Adamant nature to survive any specific attack that troubles your Haxorus's team.</p>

[Checks and Counters]

<p>Bulky Pokemon that cannot be OHKOed by Haxorus, like such as Musharna, Cofagrigus, and Amoonguss, can set up Trick Room in the face of Haxorus its face. Golurk has a lot of bulk and resists Rock Slide. Defensive Scrafty can take anything Haxorus throws at it (bar Swords Dance or Choice Band Outrage), and hit back with a super effective Ice Punch. Although rare, Choice Scarf Vanilluxe does a lot of damage with Blizzard or Ice Beam its STAB Ice-type attacks.</p>

GP 2 / 2

 

[muffinhead]

ya termindado

gracias ;D

 

[Elemt]

Overall, a solid analysis. Just one little thing I noticed.

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QC Approved: 2/2
GP Approved: 2/2


[Overview]

<p>Haxorus is blessed with the highest Attack stat in VGC and an amazing pure Dragon typing, but it must work around its middling Speed backed by only slightly above average bulk. The axe-face dragon learns many noteworthy spread moves in addition to powerful STAB moves. Haxorus's powerful attacks are backed by a great ability in Mold Breaker. This ability is all the more fantastic in VGC, as it allows Haxorus to hit Pokemon having the Levitate ability with Earthquake.</p>

[SET]
name: Physical Attacker
move 1: Protect
move 2: Dragon Claw
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Rock Slide
item: Haban Berry
nature: Jolly / Adamant
ability: Mold Breaker
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>This is Haxorus's most effective set thanks to its flawless coverage and monstrous Attack. Protect stops Fake Out and scouts the opponent's strategy. Dragon Claw is a solid STAB choice, especially due to the rarity of Steel-types in VGC. Rock Slide provides good coverage and breaks Focus Sashes while ignoring Rage Powder. Haxorus is just fast enough to benefit from Rock Slide's flinch rate. Bisharp and other Steel-types resist Rock Slide and Dragon Claw, but take tremendous damage from Earthquake. Haban Berry prevents Haxorus from being OHKOed by Hydreigon's Dragon Pulse and enemy Haxorus's attacks. These are the only common moves that can OHKO Haxorus, so Haban Berry is an extremely effective effective item.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>Life Orb could be used to hit bulkier foes much harder. Haxorus will appreciate Life Orb when facing Amoonguss, Conkeldurr, and Musharna. However, lacking Haban Berry leaves Haxorus completely at the mercy of enemy Hydreigon. An Adamant nature can be used, along with a bulkier EV spread to increase survivability against bulky Trick Room teams. When utilizing the bulky Adamant set, Taunt is a decent option to stop Musharna and Jellicent in their tracks.</p>

<p>Tornadus makes an excellent partner. It is immune to Haxorus's Earthquake and can set up Tailwind easily. Tornadus also takes out Amoonguss in one hit, a feat that Dragon Claw cannot accomplish.</p>

[SET]
name: Dragon Dance
move 1: Dragon Dance
move 2: Dragon Claw
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Rock Slide / Protect
item: Life Orb / Haban Berry
nature: Jolly
ability: Mold Breaker
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>The premise of this set is to grab one boost and attack. Haxorus sits at 97 base Speed, which is below the genies, Hydreigon, and many notable Pokemon. A single Dragon Dance allows Haxorus to outpace these major threats and boost its already monstrous attack to astronomical levels. This combination of enhanced power and speed, combined with excellent coverage and passable bulk, makes Haxorus a very threatening sweeper. Earthquake is the best choice for a spread attack, and hits the few Steel-types that resist Dragon Claw and Rock Slide. Rock Slide is Haxorus's most powerful attack against the genies, Volcarona, and Archeops. Life Orb increases Haxorus's damage output and compensates for Rock Slide's and Earthquake's reduced power when hitting both opponents. A Jolly nature with maximum Speed EVs is necessary in case Haxorus is unable to set up Dragon Dance.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>The EVs can be modified to allow Haxorus to survive specific attacks from threats, such as Hydriegon's Dragon Pulse. Haban Berry can also prolong Haxorus's time on the field. Haxorus can set up Dragon Dance in the face of Druddigon's Dragon Claw or Hydreigon's Dragon Pulse and KO back with a boosted Dragon Claw of its own. This single turn of protection is extremely valuable when one is looking to set up and sweep. Haxorus also learns Swords Dance, and could potentially use it instead of Dragon Dance in an attempt to smash through the metagame with brute strength. Haxorus's Swords Dance-boosted attacks will OHKO almost every Pokemon in VGC. Unfortunately, Haxorus's unaltered Speed and defensive stats are decidedly mediocre, giving it very little staying power. Without Tailwind support, abusing Swords Dance will be extremely difficult. Amoonguss or Volcarona can help Haxorus by using Rage Powder, allowing Haxorus to have a free turn to set up.</p>

[SET]
name: Choice
move 1: Dragon Claw
move 2: Earthquake
move 3: Rock Slide
move 4: Outrage / Dual Chop / X-Scissor
item: Choice Scarf / Choice Band
nature: Adamant
ability: Mold Breaker
evs: 38 HP / 252 Atk / 220 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>With a Choice Scarf equipped, Haxorus outspeeds every unboosted Pokemon in VGC. This strategy forgoes a turn of set up at the cost of being locked into one move. Choice Scarf allows Haxorus to outspeed and KO many of its checks, such as the genies, Hydreigon, Vanilluxe, and Terrakion. Choice Band is also viable, and helps Haxorus to muscle through basically every Pokemon. Rock Slide can 2HKO the genies and occasionally nabs valuable flinches. Earthquake is not a move one should use recklessly, as its effectiveness requires one to consider the presence of Flying-types on both teams. However, the ability to hit Levitate users with Earthquake still makes Mold Breaker the preferred ability.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>Keep in mind that Mold Breaker negates your own partner's Levitate or Telepathy. The last move should only be used in specific situations. Outrage should be used when all other moves have no chance of KOing the opponent's Pokemon. Essentially, it should only be used when Dragon Claw is simply too weak. Dual Chop is very valuable against weak Focus Sash and Substitute users. If neither of these moves appeal, X-Scissor hits Musharna and Whimsicott for more damage while maintaining solid coverage. An alternate EV spread of 6 4 HP / 252 Attack / 252 Speed should be used for the Choice Band set, with a Jolly Nature to compensate for the the absence of Choice Scarf.</p>

<p>Haxorus loves having a Flying-type teammate, especially because Ice-types are not as common in VGC 2011. Tailwind helps out Haxorus immensely, especially when using Swords Dance. Tornadus is an excellent partner, as it is immune to Earthquake and can quickly set up Tailwind.</p>

[Other Options]

<p>An Adamant nature can be used to further increase Haxorus's power. HP EVs should be modified when using an Adamant nature to survive any specific attack that troubles Haxorus's team.</p>

[Checks and Counters]

<p>Bulky Pokemon that cannot be OHKOed by Haxorus, such as Musharna, Cofagrigus, and Amoonguss, can set up Trick Room in its face. Golurk has a lot of bulk and resists Rock Slide. Defensive Scrafty can take anything Haxorus throws at it (bar Swords Dance or Choice Band Outrage), and hit back with a super effective Ice Punch. Although rare, Choice Scarf Vanilluxe does a lot of damage with its STAB Ice-type attacks.</p>

 

[kaonohiokala]

IMO, on the choice set, Dual Chop should be slashed with Dragon Claw, not Outrage/X-Scissor. Actually, Outrage is so good on Haxorus, you may as well dash it with Dragon Claw as well.

 

[kingofmars]

I'd just like to say that from personal experience, I've found Focus Sash to be godly on Haxorus. Things that make it better than Haban berry:
Hydreigon's draco meteor
Tornadus/Eelektross flight jewel boosted acrobatics
Other Haxorus' double chop
Vanilluxe
Samurott's LO boosted Ice beam

And a whole mess of other stuff.

 

[muffinhead]

I'd just like to say that from personal experience, I've found Focus Sash to be godly on Haxorus. Things that make it better than Haban berry:
Hydreigon's draco meteor
Tornadus/Eelektross flight jewel boosted acrobatics
Other Haxorus' double chop
Vanilluxe
Samurott's LO boosted Ice beam

And a whole mess of other stuff.

I do agree that it would be nice to sash Haxorus, but seriously, considering only one pokemon can have focus sash on a team, Haxorus makes much better use of scarf or haban. also

"Other Haxorus' double chop"
this hits through haban anyway

 

[HaxorusNero]

Hey Haxorus is my own personal favorite pokemon! Ive used him with Tornadus great combiation actually I won some battles using them but a prankster taunt Whimsicott taunting tornadus and Hydreigon attacking Haxorus will cmpletely break the strategy