QC 3/3 (Colonel M, PK Gaming, Gary)
GP 2/2 (frenzyplant, Dutch Plumberjack)
[OVERVIEW]
Kyurem-B is a very powerful wallbreaker thanks to its massive base 170 Attack stat and amazing offensive typing, allowing it to tear apart bulkier teams and making it very hard to switch into. Coverage options like Fusion Bolt and Earth Power couple amazingly with Kyurem-B's STAB moves, dealing massive amounts of damage to Pokemon like Tapu Fini, Toxapex, Magnezone, and Heatran. Its Dragon typing and great overall bulk enable it to switch into neutral or resisted moves without taking too much damage. Finally, Teravolt can be handy when Kyurem-B finds itself facing Pokemon like Mega Venusaur, Rotom-W, and Bronzong, as it ignores the likes of Thick Fat and Levitate.
On the other hand, Kyurem-B lacks a spammable physical Ice-type STAB move, making the one-use Subzero Slammer its only option to use its base 170 Attack stat. In spite of Kyurem-B's base 95 Speed allowing it to outspeed key targets such as Heatran, Tapu Fini, Excadrill, and Gyarados, Pokemon like Mega Medicham, Keldeo, Volcarona, and Terrakion can all take advantage of the fact that Kyurem-B's Ice typing gives it many weaknesses and outspeed and either heavily damage or OHKO it. Furthermore, Kyurem-B's Stealth Rock weakness and vulnerability to burn, Toxic poison, and paralysis make it easier for it to get worn down throughout a match. It also faces competition with other wallbreakers in the tier, such as Tapu Bulu, Tapu Lele, Landorus-T and Alolan Marowak.
[SET]
name: Subzero Slammer
move 1: Freeze Shock
move 2: Fusion Bolt
move 3: Ice Beam
move 4: Earth Power / Outrage
item: Icium Z
ability: Teravolt
nature: Naughty / Naive
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Freeze Shock turns into an incredibly powerful Subzero Slammer thanks to Icium Z, but it is really unreliable otherwise because a regular Freeze Shock takes an extra turn to charge. Subzero Slammer achieves feats such as OHKOing Chansey and Mew after Stealth Rock and doing around 80% to physically defensive Skarmory and Ferrothorn. Fusion Bolt gives Kyurem-B BoltBeam coverage and is also a very reliable option to hit many Pokemon neutrally. Gyarados, Skarmory, Celesteela, Toxapex and many others get throttled by Fusion Bolt. Ice Beam acts as a reliable Ice-type STAB move, since Subzero Slammer can only be used once. Earth Power allows Kyurem-B to heavily damage Magearna, Alolan Marowak, Heatran, Rotom-W, and Magnezone, which would wall it otherwise. Outrage gives Kyurem-B an extremely powerful STAB move that hits many Pokemon neutrally and uses Kyurem-B's huge Attack stat. Dragon Claw is an option as well that trades power for reliability. Roost can also be used in the last slot to ensure that Kyurem-B's health is maintained throughout a match and alleviate Kyurem-B's Stealth Rock weakness. Substitute can ease predictions and make Kyurem-B an even bigger threat because of the number of switches it causes; it also helps Kyurem-B avoid status from the likes of Rotom-W and Heatran. Hidden Power Fire can be used in the last slot as well, allowing Kyurem-B to break through Mega Scizor and Ferrothorn.
Set Details
========
Icium Z allows Kyurem-B to use Subzero Slammer, and Teravolt is Kyurem-B's only ability and allows Kyurem-B to break past Pokemon with abilities like Levitate, Thick Fat, and Disguise, such as Rotom-W, Mega Venusaur, and Mimikyu. A Naughty nature gives Kyurem-B even more power behind its physical moves when paired with maximum Attack investment; a Naive nature, on the other hand, allows it to Speed tie with Tapu Lele and Jolly Zygarde as well as outspeed Landorus-T, Excadrill, and Heatran. The Speed EVs are crucial for dealing with Pokemon slightly slower than Kyurem-B, like Landorus-T and Excadrill. If Speed tying with the aforementioned Tapu Lele and Zygarde isn't needed, an alternative EV spread of 32 HP / 252 Atk / 224 Spe can be used to outspeed 252 Speed Landorus-T; Kyurem-B shouldn't run fewer Speed EVs than that.
Usage Tips
========
It's really important to preserve Subzero Slammer and only use it at the right time, since a skilled opponent will likely try to play around Kyurem-B, attempting to figure what set it is running. In a scenario where a potential Subzero Slammer target such as Mega Venusaur or Chansey is likely to switch out, go for Ice Beam or Fusion Bolt instead of using Subzero Slammer straightaway. It's also important to be careful with Pokemon that generally run Protect, because they can waste Kyurem-B's Z-Move. However, Subzero Slammer may not be so important against certain teams, so there's no problem in using it early-game just to heavily damage an opposing Pokemon in these situations. Switching Kyurem-B in on a resisted move or a weaker neutral move is a great idea if you don't have any better switch-in; however, attempt to remove Stealth Rock and Spikes before recklessly switching Kyurem-B in, since they can easily wear Kyurem-B down. Additionally, avoid letting Kyurem-B get afflicted with a status condition, as they severely hinder Kyurem-B's wallbreaking potential.
Team Options
========
Pokemon that provide Defog support are generally great teammates. Tapu Fini protects Kyurem-B from status effects with Misty Terrain and can wear down Steel-types with Nature's Madness and Taunt, Mega Scizor can use U-turn to safely bring Kyurem-B onto the battlefield, and Latios can weaken Steel-types for Kyurem-B. Tapu Koko is a great partner, as Kyurem-B eliminates most of its checks and Tapu Koko provides U-turn or Volt Switch support and a powerup to Fusion Bolt for Kyurem-B. Magnezone, Magearna, and Rotom-W also provide Volt Switch support for Kyurem-B. Magnezone traps and eliminates Mega Scizor; Assault Vest Magearna has great synergy with Kyurem-B, taking on Ash-Greninja, Tapu Lele, Keldeo, Mega Scizor, and Ferrothorn; and Rotom-W can weaken Ferrothorn and Mega Scizor with Will-O-Wisp. Landorus-T, Keldeo, and Tapu Koko appreciate Kyurem-B's ability to decimate Grass-types like Mega Venusaur, Tangrowth, and Amoongus. Landorus-T can also pressure the opponent's team with Stealth Rock. Finally, Volcarona, Heatran, and Alolan Marowak can annihilate Steel-types like Mega Scizor and Ferrothorn with their Fire-type STAB moves. Volcarona also appreciates Kyurem-B's wallbreaking efforts, which make it easier for Volcarona to clean late-game. Alolan Marowak and Heatran can also provide Stealth Rock.
[SET]
name: All-out Attacker
move 1: Ice Beam
move 2: Fusion Bolt
move 3: Earth Power
move 4: Hidden Power Fire / Roost
item: Life Orb
ability: Teravolt
nature: Rash / Naive
evs: 4 Atk / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Ice Beam is a reliable Ice-type STAB move that allows Kyurem-B to damage Pokemon like Landorus-T and Mega Venusaur super effectively. Fusion Bolt has amazing coverage when coupled with Ice Beam, allowing Kyurem-B to nail Pokemon such as Celesteela and Tapu Fini. Earth Power hits the few Pokemon that resist both Ice Beam and Fusion Bolt, such as Alolan Marowak, Magnezone, and Rotom-W, while also nailing Magearna and physically defensive Toxapex. Hidden Power Fire destroys Mega Scizor and Ferrothorn, Pokemon that are generally considered very solid checks to Kyurem-B. Roost can also be used in the last slot to alleviate Kyurem-B's Stealth Rock weakness by providing reliable recovery. The powerful Outrage or the more reliable Dragon Claw can be used over Hidden Power Fire to act as a powerful Dragon-type STAB move that uses Kyurem-B's massive Attack stat. Both ensure Mega Charizard X can't set up on Kyurem-B and let Kyurem-B 2HKO Chansey, after Stealth Rock in Dragon Claw's case.
Set Details
========
Life Orb is used to significantly raise Kyurem-B's damage output at the cost of some recoil damage. Teravolt allows Kyurem-B to ignore abilities such as Levitate and Thick Fat, coming in very handy against Pokemon like Mega Venusaur and Rotom-W. A Rash nature coupled with maximum Special investment gives Ice Beam, Earth Power, and Hidden Power Fire more overall power; however, if outspeeding max Speed Landorus-T, Excadrill, and Heatran is deemed necessary, a Naive nature should be chosen instead. 252 Speed EVs are used to let Kyurem-B Speed tie with other base 95s, while 224 Speed EVs can be used instead to ensure that Kyurem-B outspeeds 252 Speed Landorus-T if speed tying with Tapu Lele and Zygarde isn't needed. 252 Attack EVs can also be used with an Attack-boosting nature to ensure Fusion Bolt and Outrage/Dragon Claw hit as hard as possible, at the cost of slightly weakening Kyurem-B's other moves.
Usage Tips
========
This set should be used early-game to punch holes in the opposing team, as it allows teammates to clean up later in the battle. However, Kyurem-B requires some prediction to work to its full potential, because faster Pokemon like Ash-Greninja and Nihilego may try to switch into Kyurem-B to grab momentum, and opponents with bulkier teams might try to pivot on Kyurem-B to wear it down with Life Orb recoil, Stealth Rock, Toxic, and burn. Pokemon with Regenerator like Toxapex and Assault Vest Tangrowth might also try to pivot on Kyurem-B, making prediction even more important to prevent them from healing up. Kyurem-B can be sent out on weaker neutral moves or resisted ones, since its formidable bulk allows it to take hits surprisingly well; however, avoid switching Kyurem-B into stronger neutral moves or super effective coverage, especially if entry hazards on your side of the field could wear it down.
Team Options
========
Pairing Kyurem-B with late-game cleaners is a smart idea. Pokemon like Tapu Lele, Ash-Greninja, Mega Pinsir, Volcarona, and Double Dance Landorus-T benefit from the damage Kyurem-B racks up on the opponent's team, easing their sweeps; the first three can also wallbreak on their own, making Kyurem-B's role easier to fulfill. Entry hazard removers like Mega Scizor, Mew, Zapdos, and Tapu Fini are great teammates as well, as they can Defog away the hazards that bother Kyurem-B. Mega Scizor can give Kyurem-B a safe switch in with U-turn; Mew deals with Mega Medicham and Mega Mawile; Zapdos can threaten Mega Scizor thanks to Heat Wave; and Tapu Fini can make Kyurem-B immune to status conditions for a couple of turns, thanks to Misty Terrain. Tapu Koko partners really well with Kyurem-B, as Kyurem-B breaks down many Tapu Koko checks such as Alolan Marowak, Magnezone, and Ferrothorn and Tapu Koko's U-turn and Volt Switch can help Kyurem-B switch in safely. Electric Terrain also boosts Kyurem-B's Fusion Bolt, which is especially relevant for maximum Attack variants. Finally, defensive Landorus-T and Rotom-W can lure in Steel-types like Ferrothorn and Celesteela as well as Grass-types like Tangrowth and Tapu Bulu for Kyurem-B and provide momentum with U-turn and Volt Switch. Magearna also provides Volt Switch support, can weaken Ferrothorn and Mega Scizor with Hidden Power Fire, and provides a switch-in to Tapu Lele.
[SET]
name: Choice Band
move 1: Outrage
move 2: Fusion Bolt
move 3: Dragon Claw
move 4: Ice Beam / Iron Head
item: Choice Band
ability: Teravolt
nature: Naughty / Adamant
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Outrage is somewhat spammable thanks to its high Base Power and Kyurem-B's huge Attack stat. However, the presence of Fairy- and Steel-types like Tapu Lele and Mega Scizor makes it tougher to spam. Fusion Bolt acts as a reliable option to hit many Pokemon neutrally and deal with Pokemon like Tapu Fini and Skarmory that can eat Outrage. Dragon Claw is a more reliable Dragon-type STAB move, since it doesn't induce confusion and allows Kyurem-B to switch out. Ice Beam is preferred in the last slot, since it complements Fusion Bolt and Outrage and still heavily damages, if not OHKOes, Pokemon like Landorus-T, Tapu Bulu, and Tangrowth even though it isn't boosted by Choice Band. Iron Head can also be used in the last slot to nail Fairy-types that think they are safe switching into Kyurem-B, such as Tapu Koko, Tapu Lele, and Clefable.
Set Details
========
Choice Band gives Kyurem-B even more power, and Teravolt helps when facing the likes of Mega Venusaur, Alolan Marowak, and Mimikyu. Naughty is the preferred nature to maximize Kyurem-B's Attack when coupled with maximum investment if it is running Ice Beam; otherwise, an Adamant nature should be used. A Naive or Jolly nature can also be used if outspeeding maximum Speed Landorus-T, Excadrill, or Heatran is deemed necessary; however, this set can't accomplish too much by outspeeding the aforementioned Pokemon, so it's really up to preference. 252 Speed EVs ensure Kyurem-B will Speed tie with opposing Kyurem-B and Tapu Lele, 224 Speed EVs with a Speed-boosting nature can be run to outspeed Landorus-T, 176 Speed EVs with a Speed-boosting nature can be used to outrun maximum Speed Kingdra and Tapu Fini, and 236 Speed EVs without a Speed-boosting nature can be used to outrun maximum Speed base 80s like Dragonite, Mamoswine, and Hoopa-U.
Usage Tips
========
This set aims to rack up damage on the opponent's team by spamming Choice Band-boosted Outrage; however, it's important to try to remove opposing Fairy- and Steel-types for Kyurem-B to be able to wallbreak efficiently. Kyurem-B can also wallbreak using Fusion Bolt and Ice Beam, since both also hit very hard and allow it to bypass Steel- and Fairy-types. Furthermore, it's very important to try to keep Stealth Rock away from your side of the field, since Kyurem-B is likely to switch in several times throughout a match because of the number of switches it forces. Additionally, Kyurem-B can be sent out on a weaker neutral move or a resisted one if there isn't any better switch-in; just avoid letting Kyurem-B get worn down too much if its wallbreaking is valuable.
Team Options
========
Pokemon that can efficiently remove Steel-types are amazing partners, since this set cannot handle them well. Magnezone and Fire-types like Alolan Marowak and Heatran are great examples. Steel- and Poison-types, such as Mega Mawile, Gengar, and Nihilego, also partner well with this set thanks to their ability to take down Fairy-types. Excadrill, Mega Scizor, and Tapu Fini can remove Stealth Rock from Kyurem-B's side of the field. Excadrill and Mega Scizor also aid in taking on Fairy-types, and Tapu Fini provides Misty Terrain support. Landorus-T, Assault Vest Magearna, and Rotom-W are great partners thanks to their U-turn and Volt Switch support. Landorus-T can set up Stealth Rock, and Magearna can also handle Steel-types and Tapu Lele. Teammates that benefit from Kyurem-B wearing down common Dragon-types and physically defensive Pokemon are also great partners; examples include Tapu Bulu, Alolan Marowak, Latios, and Dragonite.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
Using a nature that reduces Defense instead of Special Defense, such as Lonely over Naughty, Hasty over Naive, or Mild over Rash, might be preferred on teams that have more trouble against special attackers such as Tapu Koko and Greninja. Choice Scarf and a set of Outrage, Fusion Bolt, Dragon Claw, and Ice Beam can be used to allow Kyurem-B to act as a revenge killer. Dragonium Z with Outrage is an option over Icium Z; however, Ice is a superior offensive typing, Outrage is already powerful enough, and Kyurem-B has no reliable physical Ice-type move outside of Subzero Slammer. Finally, Substitute and Leftovers can be used to help Kyurem-B deal with faster threats that try to switch into it.
Checks and Counters
===================
**Steel-types**: Steel-types are Kyurem-B's greatest enemies. They resist Kyurem-B's STAB combination and usually don't take too much damage from Fusion Bolt. Faster Steel-types like Jolly Excadrill and Timid Heatran are also troublesome if Kyurem-B is not running a Speed-increasing nature. However, Pokemon like Heatran, Magearna, and Magnezone must watch out for Earth Power, and Mega Scizor and Ferrothorn must be be careful of Hidden Power Fire.
**Fairy-types**: Fairy-types like Tapu Koko, Tapu Fini, Tapu Lele, and Clefable are immune to Kyurem-B's Outrage, giving them an opportunity to switch in and knock it out. However, most of them fall to Subzero Slammer, and they should watch out for Iron Head as well.
**Faster Revenge Killers**: Faster Pokemon with a super effective move can usually revenge kill Kyurem-B with some ease. Nihilego, Latios, Keldeo, Terrakion, and Mega Medicham can all outspeed and heavily damage or OHKO Kyurem-B.
**Entry Hazards**: Kyurem-B is not only weak to Stealth Rock but also vulnerable to all entry hazards, which make Kyurem-B much easier to wear down and limit its opportunities to switch in. Roost alleviates this issue, but many sets can't afford to run it.
GP 2/2 (frenzyplant, Dutch Plumberjack)
[OVERVIEW]
Kyurem-B is a very powerful wallbreaker thanks to its massive base 170 Attack stat and amazing offensive typing, allowing it to tear apart bulkier teams and making it very hard to switch into. Coverage options like Fusion Bolt and Earth Power couple amazingly with Kyurem-B's STAB moves, dealing massive amounts of damage to Pokemon like Tapu Fini, Toxapex, Magnezone, and Heatran. Its Dragon typing and great overall bulk enable it to switch into neutral or resisted moves without taking too much damage. Finally, Teravolt can be handy when Kyurem-B finds itself facing Pokemon like Mega Venusaur, Rotom-W, and Bronzong, as it ignores the likes of Thick Fat and Levitate.
On the other hand, Kyurem-B lacks a spammable physical Ice-type STAB move, making the one-use Subzero Slammer its only option to use its base 170 Attack stat. In spite of Kyurem-B's base 95 Speed allowing it to outspeed key targets such as Heatran, Tapu Fini, Excadrill, and Gyarados, Pokemon like Mega Medicham, Keldeo, Volcarona, and Terrakion can all take advantage of the fact that Kyurem-B's Ice typing gives it many weaknesses and outspeed and either heavily damage or OHKO it. Furthermore, Kyurem-B's Stealth Rock weakness and vulnerability to burn, Toxic poison, and paralysis make it easier for it to get worn down throughout a match. It also faces competition with other wallbreakers in the tier, such as Tapu Bulu, Tapu Lele, Landorus-T and Alolan Marowak.
[SET]
name: Subzero Slammer
move 1: Freeze Shock
move 2: Fusion Bolt
move 3: Ice Beam
move 4: Earth Power / Outrage
item: Icium Z
ability: Teravolt
nature: Naughty / Naive
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Freeze Shock turns into an incredibly powerful Subzero Slammer thanks to Icium Z, but it is really unreliable otherwise because a regular Freeze Shock takes an extra turn to charge. Subzero Slammer achieves feats such as OHKOing Chansey and Mew after Stealth Rock and doing around 80% to physically defensive Skarmory and Ferrothorn. Fusion Bolt gives Kyurem-B BoltBeam coverage and is also a very reliable option to hit many Pokemon neutrally. Gyarados, Skarmory, Celesteela, Toxapex and many others get throttled by Fusion Bolt. Ice Beam acts as a reliable Ice-type STAB move, since Subzero Slammer can only be used once. Earth Power allows Kyurem-B to heavily damage Magearna, Alolan Marowak, Heatran, Rotom-W, and Magnezone, which would wall it otherwise. Outrage gives Kyurem-B an extremely powerful STAB move that hits many Pokemon neutrally and uses Kyurem-B's huge Attack stat. Dragon Claw is an option as well that trades power for reliability. Roost can also be used in the last slot to ensure that Kyurem-B's health is maintained throughout a match and alleviate Kyurem-B's Stealth Rock weakness. Substitute can ease predictions and make Kyurem-B an even bigger threat because of the number of switches it causes; it also helps Kyurem-B avoid status from the likes of Rotom-W and Heatran. Hidden Power Fire can be used in the last slot as well, allowing Kyurem-B to break through Mega Scizor and Ferrothorn.
Set Details
========
Icium Z allows Kyurem-B to use Subzero Slammer, and Teravolt is Kyurem-B's only ability and allows Kyurem-B to break past Pokemon with abilities like Levitate, Thick Fat, and Disguise, such as Rotom-W, Mega Venusaur, and Mimikyu. A Naughty nature gives Kyurem-B even more power behind its physical moves when paired with maximum Attack investment; a Naive nature, on the other hand, allows it to Speed tie with Tapu Lele and Jolly Zygarde as well as outspeed Landorus-T, Excadrill, and Heatran. The Speed EVs are crucial for dealing with Pokemon slightly slower than Kyurem-B, like Landorus-T and Excadrill. If Speed tying with the aforementioned Tapu Lele and Zygarde isn't needed, an alternative EV spread of 32 HP / 252 Atk / 224 Spe can be used to outspeed 252 Speed Landorus-T; Kyurem-B shouldn't run fewer Speed EVs than that.
Usage Tips
========
It's really important to preserve Subzero Slammer and only use it at the right time, since a skilled opponent will likely try to play around Kyurem-B, attempting to figure what set it is running. In a scenario where a potential Subzero Slammer target such as Mega Venusaur or Chansey is likely to switch out, go for Ice Beam or Fusion Bolt instead of using Subzero Slammer straightaway. It's also important to be careful with Pokemon that generally run Protect, because they can waste Kyurem-B's Z-Move. However, Subzero Slammer may not be so important against certain teams, so there's no problem in using it early-game just to heavily damage an opposing Pokemon in these situations. Switching Kyurem-B in on a resisted move or a weaker neutral move is a great idea if you don't have any better switch-in; however, attempt to remove Stealth Rock and Spikes before recklessly switching Kyurem-B in, since they can easily wear Kyurem-B down. Additionally, avoid letting Kyurem-B get afflicted with a status condition, as they severely hinder Kyurem-B's wallbreaking potential.
Team Options
========
Pokemon that provide Defog support are generally great teammates. Tapu Fini protects Kyurem-B from status effects with Misty Terrain and can wear down Steel-types with Nature's Madness and Taunt, Mega Scizor can use U-turn to safely bring Kyurem-B onto the battlefield, and Latios can weaken Steel-types for Kyurem-B. Tapu Koko is a great partner, as Kyurem-B eliminates most of its checks and Tapu Koko provides U-turn or Volt Switch support and a powerup to Fusion Bolt for Kyurem-B. Magnezone, Magearna, and Rotom-W also provide Volt Switch support for Kyurem-B. Magnezone traps and eliminates Mega Scizor; Assault Vest Magearna has great synergy with Kyurem-B, taking on Ash-Greninja, Tapu Lele, Keldeo, Mega Scizor, and Ferrothorn; and Rotom-W can weaken Ferrothorn and Mega Scizor with Will-O-Wisp. Landorus-T, Keldeo, and Tapu Koko appreciate Kyurem-B's ability to decimate Grass-types like Mega Venusaur, Tangrowth, and Amoongus. Landorus-T can also pressure the opponent's team with Stealth Rock. Finally, Volcarona, Heatran, and Alolan Marowak can annihilate Steel-types like Mega Scizor and Ferrothorn with their Fire-type STAB moves. Volcarona also appreciates Kyurem-B's wallbreaking efforts, which make it easier for Volcarona to clean late-game. Alolan Marowak and Heatran can also provide Stealth Rock.
[SET]
name: All-out Attacker
move 1: Ice Beam
move 2: Fusion Bolt
move 3: Earth Power
move 4: Hidden Power Fire / Roost
item: Life Orb
ability: Teravolt
nature: Rash / Naive
evs: 4 Atk / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Ice Beam is a reliable Ice-type STAB move that allows Kyurem-B to damage Pokemon like Landorus-T and Mega Venusaur super effectively. Fusion Bolt has amazing coverage when coupled with Ice Beam, allowing Kyurem-B to nail Pokemon such as Celesteela and Tapu Fini. Earth Power hits the few Pokemon that resist both Ice Beam and Fusion Bolt, such as Alolan Marowak, Magnezone, and Rotom-W, while also nailing Magearna and physically defensive Toxapex. Hidden Power Fire destroys Mega Scizor and Ferrothorn, Pokemon that are generally considered very solid checks to Kyurem-B. Roost can also be used in the last slot to alleviate Kyurem-B's Stealth Rock weakness by providing reliable recovery. The powerful Outrage or the more reliable Dragon Claw can be used over Hidden Power Fire to act as a powerful Dragon-type STAB move that uses Kyurem-B's massive Attack stat. Both ensure Mega Charizard X can't set up on Kyurem-B and let Kyurem-B 2HKO Chansey, after Stealth Rock in Dragon Claw's case.
Set Details
========
Life Orb is used to significantly raise Kyurem-B's damage output at the cost of some recoil damage. Teravolt allows Kyurem-B to ignore abilities such as Levitate and Thick Fat, coming in very handy against Pokemon like Mega Venusaur and Rotom-W. A Rash nature coupled with maximum Special investment gives Ice Beam, Earth Power, and Hidden Power Fire more overall power; however, if outspeeding max Speed Landorus-T, Excadrill, and Heatran is deemed necessary, a Naive nature should be chosen instead. 252 Speed EVs are used to let Kyurem-B Speed tie with other base 95s, while 224 Speed EVs can be used instead to ensure that Kyurem-B outspeeds 252 Speed Landorus-T if speed tying with Tapu Lele and Zygarde isn't needed. 252 Attack EVs can also be used with an Attack-boosting nature to ensure Fusion Bolt and Outrage/Dragon Claw hit as hard as possible, at the cost of slightly weakening Kyurem-B's other moves.
Usage Tips
========
This set should be used early-game to punch holes in the opposing team, as it allows teammates to clean up later in the battle. However, Kyurem-B requires some prediction to work to its full potential, because faster Pokemon like Ash-Greninja and Nihilego may try to switch into Kyurem-B to grab momentum, and opponents with bulkier teams might try to pivot on Kyurem-B to wear it down with Life Orb recoil, Stealth Rock, Toxic, and burn. Pokemon with Regenerator like Toxapex and Assault Vest Tangrowth might also try to pivot on Kyurem-B, making prediction even more important to prevent them from healing up. Kyurem-B can be sent out on weaker neutral moves or resisted ones, since its formidable bulk allows it to take hits surprisingly well; however, avoid switching Kyurem-B into stronger neutral moves or super effective coverage, especially if entry hazards on your side of the field could wear it down.
Team Options
========
Pairing Kyurem-B with late-game cleaners is a smart idea. Pokemon like Tapu Lele, Ash-Greninja, Mega Pinsir, Volcarona, and Double Dance Landorus-T benefit from the damage Kyurem-B racks up on the opponent's team, easing their sweeps; the first three can also wallbreak on their own, making Kyurem-B's role easier to fulfill. Entry hazard removers like Mega Scizor, Mew, Zapdos, and Tapu Fini are great teammates as well, as they can Defog away the hazards that bother Kyurem-B. Mega Scizor can give Kyurem-B a safe switch in with U-turn; Mew deals with Mega Medicham and Mega Mawile; Zapdos can threaten Mega Scizor thanks to Heat Wave; and Tapu Fini can make Kyurem-B immune to status conditions for a couple of turns, thanks to Misty Terrain. Tapu Koko partners really well with Kyurem-B, as Kyurem-B breaks down many Tapu Koko checks such as Alolan Marowak, Magnezone, and Ferrothorn and Tapu Koko's U-turn and Volt Switch can help Kyurem-B switch in safely. Electric Terrain also boosts Kyurem-B's Fusion Bolt, which is especially relevant for maximum Attack variants. Finally, defensive Landorus-T and Rotom-W can lure in Steel-types like Ferrothorn and Celesteela as well as Grass-types like Tangrowth and Tapu Bulu for Kyurem-B and provide momentum with U-turn and Volt Switch. Magearna also provides Volt Switch support, can weaken Ferrothorn and Mega Scizor with Hidden Power Fire, and provides a switch-in to Tapu Lele.
[SET]
name: Choice Band
move 1: Outrage
move 2: Fusion Bolt
move 3: Dragon Claw
move 4: Ice Beam / Iron Head
item: Choice Band
ability: Teravolt
nature: Naughty / Adamant
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Outrage is somewhat spammable thanks to its high Base Power and Kyurem-B's huge Attack stat. However, the presence of Fairy- and Steel-types like Tapu Lele and Mega Scizor makes it tougher to spam. Fusion Bolt acts as a reliable option to hit many Pokemon neutrally and deal with Pokemon like Tapu Fini and Skarmory that can eat Outrage. Dragon Claw is a more reliable Dragon-type STAB move, since it doesn't induce confusion and allows Kyurem-B to switch out. Ice Beam is preferred in the last slot, since it complements Fusion Bolt and Outrage and still heavily damages, if not OHKOes, Pokemon like Landorus-T, Tapu Bulu, and Tangrowth even though it isn't boosted by Choice Band. Iron Head can also be used in the last slot to nail Fairy-types that think they are safe switching into Kyurem-B, such as Tapu Koko, Tapu Lele, and Clefable.
Set Details
========
Choice Band gives Kyurem-B even more power, and Teravolt helps when facing the likes of Mega Venusaur, Alolan Marowak, and Mimikyu. Naughty is the preferred nature to maximize Kyurem-B's Attack when coupled with maximum investment if it is running Ice Beam; otherwise, an Adamant nature should be used. A Naive or Jolly nature can also be used if outspeeding maximum Speed Landorus-T, Excadrill, or Heatran is deemed necessary; however, this set can't accomplish too much by outspeeding the aforementioned Pokemon, so it's really up to preference. 252 Speed EVs ensure Kyurem-B will Speed tie with opposing Kyurem-B and Tapu Lele, 224 Speed EVs with a Speed-boosting nature can be run to outspeed Landorus-T, 176 Speed EVs with a Speed-boosting nature can be used to outrun maximum Speed Kingdra and Tapu Fini, and 236 Speed EVs without a Speed-boosting nature can be used to outrun maximum Speed base 80s like Dragonite, Mamoswine, and Hoopa-U.
Usage Tips
========
This set aims to rack up damage on the opponent's team by spamming Choice Band-boosted Outrage; however, it's important to try to remove opposing Fairy- and Steel-types for Kyurem-B to be able to wallbreak efficiently. Kyurem-B can also wallbreak using Fusion Bolt and Ice Beam, since both also hit very hard and allow it to bypass Steel- and Fairy-types. Furthermore, it's very important to try to keep Stealth Rock away from your side of the field, since Kyurem-B is likely to switch in several times throughout a match because of the number of switches it forces. Additionally, Kyurem-B can be sent out on a weaker neutral move or a resisted one if there isn't any better switch-in; just avoid letting Kyurem-B get worn down too much if its wallbreaking is valuable.
Team Options
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Pokemon that can efficiently remove Steel-types are amazing partners, since this set cannot handle them well. Magnezone and Fire-types like Alolan Marowak and Heatran are great examples. Steel- and Poison-types, such as Mega Mawile, Gengar, and Nihilego, also partner well with this set thanks to their ability to take down Fairy-types. Excadrill, Mega Scizor, and Tapu Fini can remove Stealth Rock from Kyurem-B's side of the field. Excadrill and Mega Scizor also aid in taking on Fairy-types, and Tapu Fini provides Misty Terrain support. Landorus-T, Assault Vest Magearna, and Rotom-W are great partners thanks to their U-turn and Volt Switch support. Landorus-T can set up Stealth Rock, and Magearna can also handle Steel-types and Tapu Lele. Teammates that benefit from Kyurem-B wearing down common Dragon-types and physically defensive Pokemon are also great partners; examples include Tapu Bulu, Alolan Marowak, Latios, and Dragonite.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
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Using a nature that reduces Defense instead of Special Defense, such as Lonely over Naughty, Hasty over Naive, or Mild over Rash, might be preferred on teams that have more trouble against special attackers such as Tapu Koko and Greninja. Choice Scarf and a set of Outrage, Fusion Bolt, Dragon Claw, and Ice Beam can be used to allow Kyurem-B to act as a revenge killer. Dragonium Z with Outrage is an option over Icium Z; however, Ice is a superior offensive typing, Outrage is already powerful enough, and Kyurem-B has no reliable physical Ice-type move outside of Subzero Slammer. Finally, Substitute and Leftovers can be used to help Kyurem-B deal with faster threats that try to switch into it.
Checks and Counters
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**Steel-types**: Steel-types are Kyurem-B's greatest enemies. They resist Kyurem-B's STAB combination and usually don't take too much damage from Fusion Bolt. Faster Steel-types like Jolly Excadrill and Timid Heatran are also troublesome if Kyurem-B is not running a Speed-increasing nature. However, Pokemon like Heatran, Magearna, and Magnezone must watch out for Earth Power, and Mega Scizor and Ferrothorn must be be careful of Hidden Power Fire.
**Fairy-types**: Fairy-types like Tapu Koko, Tapu Fini, Tapu Lele, and Clefable are immune to Kyurem-B's Outrage, giving them an opportunity to switch in and knock it out. However, most of them fall to Subzero Slammer, and they should watch out for Iron Head as well.
**Faster Revenge Killers**: Faster Pokemon with a super effective move can usually revenge kill Kyurem-B with some ease. Nihilego, Latios, Keldeo, Terrakion, and Mega Medicham can all outspeed and heavily damage or OHKO Kyurem-B.
**Entry Hazards**: Kyurem-B is not only weak to Stealth Rock but also vulnerable to all entry hazards, which make Kyurem-B much easier to wear down and limit its opportunities to switch in. Roost alleviates this issue, but many sets can't afford to run it.
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