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OU Kingdra
- Thread starter trc
- Start date
Super Mario Bro
All we ever look for
Approved 3/3
Thanks!
TRC.
REMOVE CHANGE COMMENTS
1/2
REMOVE CHANGE COMMENTS
Overview
########
Kingdra is one of many new Pokemon that were benefited in the transition from BW to XY, however instead of receiving a new move or being retyped, Kingdra benefits from the change to critical hit mechanics. With these changes, Kingdra can run a set which is guaranteed to always obtain a critical hit, which works fantastically with Kingdra's Sniper ability, boosting every attack by 2.25x on the critical hit, which is guaranteed after one turn of the move Focus Energy. This also allows Kingdra's attacks to ignore defensive boosts which that have been acquired by opponents, while effectively negating the Special Attack drops from usage of Draco Meteor as well. On the other side of the coin, Kingdra can also run a rain sweeper set due to the fact that Drizzle + Swift Swim is now legal in OU; this allows Kingdra to use its Swift Swim ability and good STAB combination to sweep. It also has a reasonable Attack stat which allows it to go mixed when it wants in order to break through special walls. However, it suffers from the fact that its Speed and bulk are slightly underwhelming at times, and when it is utilizing a rain sweeper set, the nerf to the amount of times rain lasts gives it a time limit on utilizing its Swift Swim and Water-type STAB boosts.
CritDra
########
name: CritDra
move 1: Focus Energy
move 2: Draco Meteor
move 3: Hydro Pump / Surf
move 4: Agility
ability: Sniper
item: Scope Lens
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
nature: Modest
Moves
========
With the new critical hit mechanics, using the move Focus Energy on a Pokemon holding a Scope Lens causes its every hit to be a critical hit; with Kingdra's Sniper ability, critical hits do 2.25x the damage they would normally do. Critical hits also bypass Draco Meteor's Special Attack drops, (RC) and the can break through defensive boosters. In this set, Draco Meteor is the main STAB move as it is powerful and it can be used indefinitely without repercussions. As a Water-type move, Hydro Pump in generally the best due to its power, but Surf can be used for the if Hydro Pump's poor accuracy is troubling. Agility is the sole option in the last slot for when Kingdra is facing more offensive teams and its lackluster Speed is not sufficient. To put it simply, Focus Energy should be used against defensive teams, (RC) while Agililty should be used against offensive teams. As alternatives for Agility, one can run a desired Hidden Power to eliminate a certain counter to Kingdra. Hidden Power Fire can OHKO Ferrothorn with a critical hit, (RC) while Hidden Power Grass can deal hefty damage to Azumarill, easily KOing it after a small amount of prior damage. This set can also run Outrage purely just so that Kingdra can 2HKO Chansey after a Focus Energy on a critical hit.
Set Details
========
A spread that uses full Special Attack and Speed investment allows Kingdra to outspeed Deoxys-S and Choice Scarf Latios after an Agility, (RC) and max Speed Dragonite and Breloom without a boost. It also allows Kingdra to Speed tie with Pinsir before it Mega Evolves. However, an alternate EV spread of 80 HP / 252 SpA / 176 Spe can be used to outspeed Choice Scarf Garchomp after an Agility as well as fully investing in Special Attack, while slotting the rest of the EVs in HP to add a bit of bulk for ease in setting up. A Modest nature is the most preferable to increase power as this set uses mono-special coverage, but if one chose to use Outrage, a Rash nature could be used instead.
Usage Tips
========
Utilize Kingdra's ability to force switches to your advantage; this is to allow setup opportunities with Focus Energy or Agility. Focus Energy is the most beneficial setup move to use against defensive teams, as it allows Kingdra to hit massively hard against them, breaking through most defensive staples easily. Against faster, more offensive teams, Agility should be used to outspeed the opposing Pokemon, (AC) potentially leading to a sweep with Kingdra's STAB moves. Bear in mind that when using Agility, Kingdra will be affected by Draco Meteor's Special Attack drops, so it can't sweep as effectively against foes that resist the Water-type. However, if you can manage to get up both boosts, Kingdra doesn't have to worry about any of the problems posed by only using one or the other. Kingdra's excellent typing allows it to switch in on Fire- and Water-type moves easily, which is especially helpful against Choice-locked attackers to allow an easy setup of either Focus Energy or Agility. Unlike most other sweepers, defensive boosters do not bother Kingdra, so this makes Kingdra an excellent way of breaking through these boosters if they start setting up, perfect for acting as a "fail-safe".
Team Options
========
This set has trouble with Ferrothorn and Azumarill, so partners that can take care of these threats for Kingdra are immensely appreciated. Heatran, Conkeldurr, and Talonflame can all deal with Ferrothorn, while and Azumarill can easily be eliminated by Mega Venusaur, Manaphy, Celebi, or Aegislash. In particular, Mega Garchomp can deal with both Ferrothorn and Azumarill, (RC) with Fire Blast and Earthquake respectively. For a set without Agility, Scolipede is a prime partner, as Kingdra's main flaw is its slightly sub-par Speed. Scolipede can Baton Pass Speed boosts, and Iron Defense boosts, a Substitute to ease Kingdra in setting up, and can even set up Spikes to help with Kingdra's sweep. In addition, it draws in Fire-type moves which Kingdra can easily absorb thanks to its 4x resistance. Another way of remedying Kingdra's poor Speed is a Sticky Web inducer, such as Galvantula or Smeargle.
Rain Sweeper
########
name: Rain Sweeper
move 1: Hydro Pump
move 2: Draco Meteor
move 3: Rain Dance / Outrage
move 4: Waterfall / Surf / Ice Beam
item: Life Orb
evs: 76 Atk / 4 Def / 252 SpA / 176 Spe
nature: Rash / Modest
Moves
========
This Kingdra set is used to sweep in the rain with its Swift Swim boost and the boost to its Water-type STAB. Hydro Pump is Kingdra's most powerful Water-type STAB move, as it deals massive damage to anything in the rain and is generally the preferred choice. Its shaky accuracy can be a problem though, so Surf can be used as a more reliable alternative. Draco Meteor is a secondary STAB move; it is powerful, though a use of it will halt Kingdra's sweep. It is essential in breaking through bulky Water-types though, and other things that may resist the Hydro Pump. Rain Dance is a option here for Kingdra to set up rain without Politoed if necessary, which is definitely helpful as a backup? However, Outrage can be used mainly as a strong neutral STAB for Pokemon that resist Water-type attacks, and it can be used after Draco Meteor's Special Attack drop. It also is great against Rotom-W and specially defensive Pokemon, but it does have a nasty side effect of locking Kingdra into it. Waterfall is a physical Water-type STAB on the physical side of the spectrum, that deals hefty damage to Blissey and Chansey in rain. However, Surf can be used in this slot as a reliable special Water-type STAB. Ice Beam is a handy coverage move to 2HKO Celebi and Trevenant, but it is often out-damaged by Kingdra's other moves, especially in the rain, while as an alternative to Draco Meteor, Dragon Pulse is good for Water-types when the Draco Meteor Special Attack drop is undesirable, and as always, the accuracy is helpful.
Set Details
========
Kingdra uses full Special Attack investment as it is its most commonly used offensive stat, while and 176 Speed EVs let it outrun Choice Scarf Garchomp in the rain. 4 Defense EVs give Genesect a Special Attack boost, which allows it to take less damage from a Choice Band Genesect's Extreme Speed; this is only relevant for Modest Kingdra. Rash Kingdra should just put those extra EVs into Attack, (RC) with all of the remaining EVs. Alternatively, one can run 40 Attack EVs, 240 Special Attack EVs, and 228 Speed EVs, which allows Kingdra to outpace Choice Scarf Latios in the rain. Sets using no physical moves should run a Modest nature and use a spread of 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe. Life Orb is the preferred item to boost the power of Kingdra without locking it into one move.
Usage Tips
========
Rain doesn't last long, whether it is from a Politoed with a Damp Rock or Kingdra's own Rain Dance. Make sure to take advantage of the amount of time you have; use it as efficiently as possible. If you predict a foe to switch out, use the appropriate move to dent the switch-in, (RC) rather than doing negligible damage on them. Kingdra sweeps best late-game after things like Ferrothorn are removed, but if it is a win condition for you earlier, then go for it. With Life Orb and Kingdra's susceptibility to all entry hazards, it is wise to bring Kingdra in on a double switch, (RC) or after a teammate has fainted. However, its handy 4x resistances to Fire- and Water-type moves does allow it the reassurance of being able to safely switch in on these moves.
Team Options
========
Politoed is a mandatory partner for the permanent rain it provides, particularly for sets that don't run Rain Dance. Kingdra should also be paired with other rain sweepers such as Ludicolo, Kabutops, Tornadus-T, and Keldeo. Magnezone and Gothitelle are great partners as they can eliminate Ferrothotrn with Hidden Power Fire; bear in mind that this should be done before rain is set up. Rotom-W makes a good partner as it can easily deal with Azumarill while also aiding Kingdra in entering the battle safely with Volt Switch. As mentioned before, Keldeo is a good partner not only because it benefits from rain, but also because it break through Blissey and Chansey. Thundurus can break through bulky Water-types with impunity, and it can use U-turn. Kingdra is also worn down quickly by Life Orb, so hazard Rapid Spin or Defog support if is often required to enable Kingdra to stay alive as long as possible. Scizor and Starmie both benefit from Rain, so they are generally good choices.
Other Options
########
Substitute + Dragon Dance could see use as an alternate set, but it makes Kingdra much easier to wall as it is limited to only its STAB moves. A Choice Specs set can function as a rain counter, but with the weather nerf, rain is rarer, and Choice Specs Kingdra lacks sufficient Speed in most situations. Sets with Dragon Dance are usable, but the introduction of the Fairy-type means that Outrage is not a good move to be locked into anymore. Finally, ChestoRest is a possible set, but it limits Kingdra's coverage power.
Checks & Counters
########
**Ferrothorn**: Ferrothorn walls the first CritDra set completely and can also take anything on the second rain sweeper set bar the rare Hidden Power Fire after a Focus Energy. This is a bit odd, as Focus Energy-boosted HP Fire comes from the first set. It can then proceed to cripple Kingdra with Thunder Wave, use Leech Seed, or set up entry hazards.
**Azumarill**: Azumarill can switch in on any move and OHKO with Play Rough. It can't even be OHKOed by the rare Hidden Power Grass on a critical hit, and it can easily switch in on the rain sweeper set.
**Sylveon**: Sylveon can switch in on any move and proceed to OHKO with Hyper Voice. It is 2HKOed by Hydro Pump on a critical hit, but Sylveon would almost always switch in as Kingdra uses Focus Energy, so this is hardly relevant.
**Chansey and Blissey**: Chansey can only be 2HKOed by the rare CritDra Outrage, (RC) and it can cripple Kingdra with Toxic or Thunder Wave, or simply just stall it out with Wish + Protect. Blissey can do a similar job, but only against the CritDra set.
**Togekiss and Mega Gardevoir**: Specially defensive Togekiss can switch in on a Focus Energy, (RC) and do hefty damage to Kingdra with Dazzling Gleam. Mega Gardevoir can also switch in on the initial Focus Energy and OHKO with Hyper Voice.
########
Kingdra is one of many new Pokemon that were benefited in the transition from BW to XY, however instead of receiving a new move or being retyped, Kingdra benefits from the change to critical hit mechanics. With these changes, Kingdra can run a set which is guaranteed to always obtain a critical hit, which works fantastically with Kingdra's Sniper ability, boosting every attack by 2.25x on the critical hit, which is guaranteed after one turn of the move Focus Energy. This also allows Kingdra's attacks to ignore defensive boosts which that have been acquired by opponents, while effectively negating the Special Attack drops from usage of Draco Meteor as well. On the other side of the coin, Kingdra can also run a rain sweeper set due to the fact that Drizzle + Swift Swim is now legal in OU; this allows Kingdra to use its Swift Swim ability and good STAB combination to sweep. It also has a reasonable Attack stat which allows it to go mixed when it wants in order to break through special walls. However, it suffers from the fact that its Speed and bulk are slightly underwhelming at times, and when it is utilizing a rain sweeper set, the nerf to the amount of times rain lasts gives it a time limit on utilizing its Swift Swim and Water-type STAB boosts.
CritDra
########
name: CritDra
move 1: Focus Energy
move 2: Draco Meteor
move 3: Hydro Pump / Surf
move 4: Agility
ability: Sniper
item: Scope Lens
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
nature: Modest
Moves
========
With the new critical hit mechanics, using the move Focus Energy on a Pokemon holding a Scope Lens causes its every hit to be a critical hit; with Kingdra's Sniper ability, critical hits do 2.25x the damage they would normally do. Critical hits also bypass Draco Meteor's Special Attack drops, (RC) and the can break through defensive boosters. In this set, Draco Meteor is the main STAB move as it is powerful and it can be used indefinitely without repercussions. As a Water-type move, Hydro Pump in generally the best due to its power, but Surf can be used for the if Hydro Pump's poor accuracy is troubling. Agility is the sole option in the last slot for when Kingdra is facing more offensive teams and its lackluster Speed is not sufficient. To put it simply, Focus Energy should be used against defensive teams, (RC) while Agililty should be used against offensive teams. As alternatives for Agility, one can run a desired Hidden Power to eliminate a certain counter to Kingdra. Hidden Power Fire can OHKO Ferrothorn with a critical hit, (RC) while Hidden Power Grass can deal hefty damage to Azumarill, easily KOing it after a small amount of prior damage. This set can also run Outrage purely just so that Kingdra can 2HKO Chansey after a Focus Energy on a critical hit.
Set Details
========
A spread that uses full Special Attack and Speed investment allows Kingdra to outspeed Deoxys-S and Choice Scarf Latios after an Agility, (RC) and max Speed Dragonite and Breloom without a boost. It also allows Kingdra to Speed tie with Pinsir before it Mega Evolves. However, an alternate EV spread of 80 HP / 252 SpA / 176 Spe can be used to outspeed Choice Scarf Garchomp after an Agility as well as fully investing in Special Attack, while slotting the rest of the EVs in HP to add a bit of bulk for ease in setting up. A Modest nature is the most preferable to increase power as this set uses mono-special coverage, but if one chose to use Outrage, a Rash nature could be used instead.
Usage Tips
========
Utilize Kingdra's ability to force switches to your advantage; this is to allow setup opportunities with Focus Energy or Agility. Focus Energy is the most beneficial setup move to use against defensive teams, as it allows Kingdra to hit massively hard against them, breaking through most defensive staples easily. Against faster, more offensive teams, Agility should be used to outspeed the opposing Pokemon, (AC) potentially leading to a sweep with Kingdra's STAB moves. Bear in mind that when using Agility, Kingdra will be affected by Draco Meteor's Special Attack drops, so it can't sweep as effectively against foes that resist the Water-type. However, if you can manage to get up both boosts, Kingdra doesn't have to worry about any of the problems posed by only using one or the other. Kingdra's excellent typing allows it to switch in on Fire- and Water-type moves easily, which is especially helpful against Choice-locked attackers to allow an easy setup of either Focus Energy or Agility. Unlike most other sweepers, defensive boosters do not bother Kingdra, so this makes Kingdra an excellent way of breaking through these boosters if they start setting up, perfect for acting as a "fail-safe".
Team Options
========
This set has trouble with Ferrothorn and Azumarill, so partners that can take care of these threats for Kingdra are immensely appreciated. Heatran, Conkeldurr, and Talonflame can all deal with Ferrothorn, while and Azumarill can easily be eliminated by Mega Venusaur, Manaphy, Celebi, or Aegislash. In particular, Mega Garchomp can deal with both Ferrothorn and Azumarill, (RC) with Fire Blast and Earthquake respectively. For a set without Agility, Scolipede is a prime partner, as Kingdra's main flaw is its slightly sub-par Speed. Scolipede can Baton Pass Speed boosts, and Iron Defense boosts, a Substitute to ease Kingdra in setting up, and can even set up Spikes to help with Kingdra's sweep. In addition, it draws in Fire-type moves which Kingdra can easily absorb thanks to its 4x resistance. Another way of remedying Kingdra's poor Speed is a Sticky Web inducer, such as Galvantula or Smeargle.
Rain Sweeper
########
name: Rain Sweeper
move 1: Hydro Pump
move 2: Draco Meteor
move 3: Rain Dance / Outrage
move 4: Waterfall / Surf / Ice Beam
item: Life Orb
evs: 76 Atk / 4 Def / 252 SpA / 176 Spe
nature: Rash / Modest
Moves
========
This Kingdra set is used to sweep in the rain with its Swift Swim boost and the boost to its Water-type STAB. Hydro Pump is Kingdra's most powerful Water-type STAB move, as it deals massive damage to anything in the rain and is generally the preferred choice. Its shaky accuracy can be a problem though, so Surf can be used as a more reliable alternative. Draco Meteor is a secondary STAB move; it is powerful, though a use of it will halt Kingdra's sweep. It is essential in breaking through bulky Water-types though, and other things that may resist the Hydro Pump. Rain Dance is a option here for Kingdra to set up rain without Politoed if necessary, which is definitely helpful as a backup? However, Outrage can be used mainly as a strong neutral STAB for Pokemon that resist Water-type attacks, and it can be used after Draco Meteor's Special Attack drop. It also is great against Rotom-W and specially defensive Pokemon, but it does have a nasty side effect of locking Kingdra into it. Waterfall is a physical Water-type STAB on the physical side of the spectrum, that deals hefty damage to Blissey and Chansey in rain. However, Surf can be used in this slot as a reliable special Water-type STAB. Ice Beam is a handy coverage move to 2HKO Celebi and Trevenant, but it is often out-damaged by Kingdra's other moves, especially in the rain, while as an alternative to Draco Meteor, Dragon Pulse is good for Water-types when the Draco Meteor Special Attack drop is undesirable, and as always, the accuracy is helpful.
Set Details
========
Kingdra uses full Special Attack investment as it is its most commonly used offensive stat, while and 176 Speed EVs let it outrun Choice Scarf Garchomp in the rain. 4 Defense EVs give Genesect a Special Attack boost, which allows it to take less damage from a Choice Band Genesect's Extreme Speed; this is only relevant for Modest Kingdra. Rash Kingdra should just put those extra EVs into Attack, (RC) with all of the remaining EVs. Alternatively, one can run 40 Attack EVs, 240 Special Attack EVs, and 228 Speed EVs, which allows Kingdra to outpace Choice Scarf Latios in the rain. Sets using no physical moves should run a Modest nature and use a spread of 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe. Life Orb is the preferred item to boost the power of Kingdra without locking it into one move.
Usage Tips
========
Rain doesn't last long, whether it is from a Politoed with a Damp Rock or Kingdra's own Rain Dance. Make sure to take advantage of the amount of time you have; use it as efficiently as possible. If you predict a foe to switch out, use the appropriate move to dent the switch-in, (RC) rather than doing negligible damage on them. Kingdra sweeps best late-game after things like Ferrothorn are removed, but if it is a win condition for you earlier, then go for it. With Life Orb and Kingdra's susceptibility to all entry hazards, it is wise to bring Kingdra in on a double switch, (RC) or after a teammate has fainted. However, its handy 4x resistances to Fire- and Water-type moves does allow it the reassurance of being able to safely switch in on these moves.
Team Options
========
Politoed is a mandatory partner for the permanent rain it provides, particularly for sets that don't run Rain Dance. Kingdra should also be paired with other rain sweepers such as Ludicolo, Kabutops, Tornadus-T, and Keldeo. Magnezone and Gothitelle are great partners as they can eliminate Ferrothotrn with Hidden Power Fire; bear in mind that this should be done before rain is set up. Rotom-W makes a good partner as it can easily deal with Azumarill while also aiding Kingdra in entering the battle safely with Volt Switch. As mentioned before, Keldeo is a good partner not only because it benefits from rain, but also because it break through Blissey and Chansey. Thundurus can break through bulky Water-types with impunity, and it can use U-turn. Kingdra is also worn down quickly by Life Orb, so hazard Rapid Spin or Defog support if is often required to enable Kingdra to stay alive as long as possible. Scizor and Starmie both benefit from Rain, so they are generally good choices.
Other Options
########
Substitute + Dragon Dance could see use as an alternate set, but it makes Kingdra much easier to wall as it is limited to only its STAB moves. A Choice Specs set can function as a rain counter, but with the weather nerf, rain is rarer, and Choice Specs Kingdra lacks sufficient Speed in most situations. Sets with Dragon Dance are usable, but the introduction of the Fairy-type means that Outrage is not a good move to be locked into anymore. Finally, ChestoRest is a possible set, but it limits Kingdra's coverage power.
Checks & Counters
########
**Ferrothorn**: Ferrothorn walls the first CritDra set completely and can also take anything on the second rain sweeper set bar the rare Hidden Power Fire after a Focus Energy. This is a bit odd, as Focus Energy-boosted HP Fire comes from the first set. It can then proceed to cripple Kingdra with Thunder Wave, use Leech Seed, or set up entry hazards.
**Azumarill**: Azumarill can switch in on any move and OHKO with Play Rough. It can't even be OHKOed by the rare Hidden Power Grass on a critical hit, and it can easily switch in on the rain sweeper set.
**Sylveon**: Sylveon can switch in on any move and proceed to OHKO with Hyper Voice. It is 2HKOed by Hydro Pump on a critical hit, but Sylveon would almost always switch in as Kingdra uses Focus Energy, so this is hardly relevant.
**Chansey and Blissey**: Chansey can only be 2HKOed by the rare CritDra Outrage, (RC) and it can cripple Kingdra with Toxic or Thunder Wave, or simply just stall it out with Wish + Protect. Blissey can do a similar job, but only against the CritDra set.
**Togekiss and Mega Gardevoir**: Specially defensive Togekiss can switch in on a Focus Energy, (RC) and do hefty damage to Kingdra with Dazzling Gleam. Mega Gardevoir can also switch in on the initial Focus Energy and OHKO with Hyper Voice.
1/2
Last edited:
Meant to get this in before your 3rd QC check, but I was busy all day yesterday. I also wanted to wait for it to get out of skeleton format, still sorry it's after your first GP check. Just some input on the moves section for rain kingdra:
"However, Outrage can be used mainly as a strong neutral STAB for Pokemon that resist Water-type attacks, and it can be used after Draco Meteor's Special Attack drop. It also is great against Rotom-W and specially defensive Pokemon, but it does have a nasty side effect of locking Kingdra into it. Waterfall is a physical Water-type STAB that deals hefty damage to Blissey and Chansey in rain. However, Surf can be used in this slot as a reliable special Water-type STAB. Ice Beam is a handy coverage move to 2HKO Celebi and Trevenant, but it is often out-damaged by Kingdra's other moves"
That's all I noticed, thanks!
"However, Outrage can be used mainly as a strong neutral STAB for Pokemon that resist Water-type attacks, and it can be used after Draco Meteor's Special Attack drop. It also is great against Rotom-W and specially defensive Pokemon, but it does have a nasty side effect of locking Kingdra into it. Waterfall is a physical Water-type STAB that deals hefty damage to Blissey and Chansey in rain. However, Surf can be used in this slot as a reliable special Water-type STAB. Ice Beam is a handy coverage move to 2HKO Celebi and Trevenant, but it is often out-damaged by Kingdra's other moves"
- Outrage should only ever be used after having already used Draco Meteor. Using it as a "strong neutral STAB" is not how it's really meant to be played. You need Outrage to beat threats that can wall you otherwise after a Draco, ie. Vaporeon, Offensive Venusaur, Tentacruel, and Rotom-W as discussed previously. I'd personally just take out the 'strong neutral STAB portion', it should only be used after you are at minus 2 from a Draco Meteor, either to get past a particular wall, when being revenge killed by a dragon type, or to continue a sweep against frail or weakened pokemon that resist your Water-type STAB.
- Again what makes Waterfall so good on rain Kingdra is that, in rain, you can do solid damage even when you are at minus 2 from a Draco Meteor. I think it would be useful to underline this specific benefit. Waterfall is also the only way you can beat support tyranitar variants (AV and Specially Defensive leftovers) 100% of the time, since you only win 64% with hydro pump against leftovers and you fail to 2HKO AV variants. Stone edge or Crunch brings you down into even AV Conkeldurr Mach Punch range. Mentioning Tyranitar here makes sense to me, since although water weak, when used well it can be annoying for rain teams.
- Ice beam does not 2HKO specially defensive Celebi without SR: Celebi 252+ SpA Life Orb Kingdra Draco Meteor vs. 252 HP / 236 SpD Celebi: 196-231 (48.5 - 57.1%); 252+ SpA Life Orb Kingdra Ice Beam vs. 252 HP / 236 SpD Celebi: 182-216 (45 - 53.4%); 80 Atk Life Orb Kingdra Outrage vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Celebi: 175-208 (43.3 - 51.4%) Maybe it's easier to just say it's a handy coverage move to 2HKO Grass-type threats, which even manages to 2HKO Celebi after SR?
That's all I noticed, thanks!
GP check.
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GP 2/2 TRC. , you might wanna look into some of your weird sentence wordings. n_n
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Overview
########
Kingdra is one of many new Pokemon that benefited in the transition from BW to XY; (semi) however,(AC) instead of receiving a new move or being retyped, Kingdra benefits from the change to critical hit mechanics. With these changes, Kingdra can run a set which is guaranteed to always obtain a critical hit, which works working fantastically with Kingdra's Sniper ability, by boosting every attack 2.25x on the critical hit, which is guaranteed after one Focus Energy. This also allows Kingdra's attacks to ignore defensive boosts that have been acquired by opponents, while effectively negating the Special Attack drops from usage of Draco Meteor as well. Kingdra can also run a rain sweeper set due to the fact that Drizzle + Swift Swim is now legal in OU; this allows Kingdra to use its Swift Swim ability and good STAB combination to sweep. It also has a reasonable Attack stat which allows it to go mixed when it wants in order to break through special walls. However, it suffers from the fact that its Speed and bulk are slightly underwhelming at times, and when it is utilizing a rain sweeper set, the nerf to the amount of times rain lasts gives it a time limit on utilizing its Swift Swim and Water-type STAB boosts.
CritDra
########
name: CritDra
move 1: Focus Energy
move 2: Draco Meteor
move 3: Hydro Pump / Surf
move 4: Agility
ability: Sniper
item: Scope Lens
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
nature: Modest
Moves
========
With the new critical hit mechanics, using the move Focus Energy on a Pokemon holding a Scope Lens causes every hit to be a critical hit; with Kingdra's Sniper ability, critical hits do 2.25x damage. Critical hits also bypass Draco Meteor's Special Attack drops and can break through defensive boosters. In this set, Draco Meteor is the main STAB move as it is powerful and it can be used indefinitely without repercussions. As a Water-type move, Hydro Pump in generally the best due to its power, but Surf can be used for the if Hydro Pump's poor accuracy is troubling. Agility is the sole option in the last slot for when Kingdra is facing more offensive teams and its lackluster Speed is not sufficient. To put it simply, Focus Energy should be used against defensive teams while Agililty should be used against offensive teams. As alternatives for Agility, one can run a desired Hidden Power to eliminate a certain counter to Kingdra. Hidden Power Fire can OHKO Ferrothorn with a critical hit while Hidden Power Grass can deal hefty damage to Azumarill, easily KOing it after a small amount of prior damage. This set can also run Outrage purely just so that Kingdra can 2HKO Chansey after a Focus Energy.
Set Details
========
A spread that uses full Special Attack and Speed investment allows Kingdra to outspeed Deoxys-S and Choice Scarf Latios after an Agility and max Speed Dragonite and Breloom without a boost. It also allows Kingdra to Speed tie with Pinsir before it Mega Evolves. However, an alternate EV spread of 80 HP / 252 SpA / 176 Spe can be used to outspeed Choice Scarf Garchomp after an Agility as well as fully investing in Special Attack, while slotting the rest of the EVs in HP to add a bit of bulk for ease in setting up. A Modest nature is the most preferable to increase power as this set uses mono-special coverage, but if one chooses to use Outrage, a Rash nature could be used instead.
Usage Tips
========
Utilize Kingdra's ability to force switches to your advantage; this is to allow setup opportunities with Focus Energy or Agility. Focus Energy is the most beneficial setup move to use against defensive teams, as it allows Kingdra to hit massively hard against them, breaking through most defensive staples easily. Against faster, more offensive teams, Agility should be used to outspeed the opposing Pokemon, potentially leading to a sweep with Kingdra's STAB moves. Bear in mind that when using Agility, Kingdra will be affected by Draco Meteor's Special Attack drops, so it can't sweep as effectively against foes that resist the Water-type Water. However, if you can manage to get up both boosts, Kingdra doesn't have to worry about any of the problems posed by only using one or the other. Kingdra's excellent typing allows it to switch in on Fire- and Water-type moves easily, which is especially helpful against Choice-locked attackers to allow an easy setup setting up of either Focus Energy or Agility. Unlike most other sweepers, defensive boosters do not bother Kingdra, so this makes Kingdra an excellent way of breaking through these boosters if they start setting up, perfect for acting as a fail-safe.
Team Options
========
This set has trouble with Ferrothorn and Azumarill, so partners that can take care of these threats for Kingdra are immensely appreciated. Heatran, Conkeldurr, and Talonflame can all deal with Ferrothorn, and Azumarill can easily be eliminated by Mega Venusaur, Manaphy, Celebi, or Aegislash. In particular, Mega Garchomp can deal with both Ferrothorn and Azumarill with by using Fire Blast and Earthquake respectively. For a set without Agility, Scolipede is a prime partner, as Kingdra's main flaw is its slightly sub-par Speed. Scolipede can Baton Pass Speed and Iron Defense boosts, a Substitute to ease Kingdra in setting up, and can even set up Spikes to help with Kingdra's sweep. In addition, it draws in Fire-type moves,(AC) which Kingdra can easily absorb thanks to its 4x resistance to them. Another way of remedying Kingdra's poor Speed is a Sticky Web inducer, such as Galvantula or Smeargle.
Rain Sweeper
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name: Rain Sweeper
move 1: Hydro Pump
move 2: Draco Meteor
move 3: Rain Dance / Outrage
move 4: Waterfall / Surf / Ice Beam
item: Life Orb
evs: 76 Atk / 4 Def / 252 SpA / 176 Spe
nature: Rash / Modest
Moves
========
This Kingdra set is used to sweep in the rain with its Swift Swim boost and the boost to its Water-type STAB. Hydro Pump is Kingdra's most powerful Water-type STAB move,(AC) as it deals massive damage to anything in the rain and is generally the preferred choice. Its shaky accuracy can be a problem,(AC) though, so Surf can be used as a more reliable alternative. Draco Meteor is a secondary STAB move; it is powerful, though a use of it will halt Kingdra's sweep. It is essential in breaking through bulky Water-types,(AC) though, and other things that resist the Hydro Pump. Rain Dance is a option here for Kingdra to set up rain without Politoed if necessary, which is definitely helpful as a backup. However, Outrage can be used mainly as a strong neutral STAB move for Pokemon that resist Water-type attacks, and it can be used after Draco Meteor's Special Attack drop. It also is great against Rotom-W and specially defensive Pokemon, but it does have a nasty side effect of locking Kingdra into it. Waterfall is a physical Water-type STAB move that deals hefty damage to Blissey and Chansey in rain. However, Surf can be used in this slot as a reliable special Water-type STAB move. Ice Beam is a handy coverage move to 2HKO Celebi and Trevenant, but it is often out-damaged by Kingdra's other moves, especially in the rain, while as an alternative to Draco Meteor, Dragon Pulse is good for Water-types when the Draco Meteor Special Attack drop is undesirable, and ; (way too many commas) as always, the accuracy is helpful as well.
Set Details
========
Kingdra uses full Special Attack investment,(AC) as it is its most commonly used offensive stat, and 176 Speed EVs let it outrun Choice Scarf Garchomp in the rain. 4 Defense EVs mean that give Genesect obtains a Special Attack boost, which allows it to take less damage from a Choice Band Genesect's Extreme Speed; this is only relevant for Modest Kingdra. Rash Kingdra should just put those extra EVs into Attack with all of the remaining EVs. Alternatively, one can run 40 Attack EVs, 240 Special Attack EVs, and 228 Speed EVs, which allows a spread of 40 Atk / 240 SpA / 228 Spe, allowing Kingdra to outpace Choice Scarf Latios in the rain. Sets using no physical moves should run a Modest nature and use a spread of 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe. Life Orb is the preferred item to boost the power of Kingdra without locking it into one move.
Usage Tips
========
Rain doesn't last long, whether it is from a Politoed with a Damp Rock or Kingdra's own Rain Dance. Make sure to take advantage of the amount of time you have; use it as efficiently as possible. If you predict a foe to switch out, use the appropriate move to dent the switch-in rather than doing negligible damage on to them. Kingdra sweeps best late-game after things foes like Ferrothorn are removed, but if it is a win condition for you earlier in the game, then go for it. With Life Orb and Kingdra's susceptibility to all entry hazards, it is wise to bring Kingdra in on a double switch or after a teammate has fainted. However, its handy 4x resistances to Fire- and Water-type moves does allow it the reassurance of being able to safely switch in on these moves.
Team Options
========
Politoed is a mandatory partner for the permanent rain it provides, particularly for sets that don't run Rain Dance. Kingdra should also be paired with other rain sweepers such as Ludicolo, Kabutops, Tornadus-T, and Keldeo. Magnezone and Gothitelle are great partners,(AC) as they can eliminate Ferrothorn with Hidden Power Fire; bear in mind that this should be done before rain is set up. Rotom-W makes for a good partner,(AC) as it can easily deal with Azumarill while also aiding Kingdra in entering the battle safely with Volt Switch. As mentioned before, Keldeo is a good partner not only because it benefits from rain, but also because it break through Blissey and Chansey. Thundurus can break through bulky Water-types with impunity, and it can use U-turn to keep up momentum (or whatever it does...). Kingdra is also worn down quickly by Life Orb, so Rapid Spin or Defog support is often required to enable Kingdra to stay alive as long as possible. Scizor and Starmie both benefit from rain, so they are generally good choices.
Other Options
########
Substitute + Dragon Dance could see use as an alternate set, but it makes Kingdra much easier to wall as it is limited to only its STAB moves. A Choice Specs set can function as a rain counter, but with the weather nerf, rain is rarer, and Choice Specs Kingdra lacks sufficient Speed in most situations. Sets with that run Dragon Dance are usable, but the introduction of the Fairy-type means that Outrage is not a good move to be locked into anymore. Finally, ChestoRest is a possible set, but it limits Kingdra's coverage.
Checks & Counters
########
**Ferrothorn**: Ferrothorn walls the rain sweeper set completely and can also take anything on the CritDra set bar the rare Hidden Power Fire after a Focus Energy. It can then proceed to cripple Kingdra with Thunder Wave, use Leech Seed, or set up entry hazards.
**Azumarill**: Azumarill can switch in on any move and OHKO with Play Rough. It can't even be OHKOed by the rare Hidden Power Grass on a critical hit, and it can easily switch in on the rain sweeper set.
**Sylveon**: Sylveon can switch in on any move and proceed to OHKO with Hyper Voice. It is 2HKOed by Hydro Pump on a critical hit, but Sylveon would almost always switch in as Kingdra uses Focus Energy, so this is hardly relevant.
**Chansey and Blissey**: Chansey can only be 2HKOed by the rare CritDra Outrage from CritDra and it can cripple Kingdra with Toxic or Thunder Wave, or simply just stall it out with Wish + Protect. Blissey can do a similar job, but only against the CritDra set.
**Togekiss and Mega Gardevoir**: Specially defensive Togekiss can switch in on a Focus Energy and do hefty damage to Kingdra with Dazzling Gleam. Mega Gardevoir can also switch in on the initial Focus Energy and OHKO with Hyper Voice.
########
Kingdra is one of many new Pokemon that benefited in the transition from BW to XY; (semi) however,(AC) instead of receiving a new move or being retyped, Kingdra benefits from the change to critical hit mechanics. With these changes, Kingdra can run a set which is guaranteed to always obtain a critical hit, which works working fantastically with Kingdra's Sniper ability, by boosting every attack 2.25x on the critical hit, which is guaranteed after one Focus Energy. This also allows Kingdra's attacks to ignore defensive boosts that have been acquired by opponents, while effectively negating the Special Attack drops from usage of Draco Meteor as well. Kingdra can also run a rain sweeper set due to the fact that Drizzle + Swift Swim is now legal in OU; this allows Kingdra to use its Swift Swim ability and good STAB combination to sweep. It also has a reasonable Attack stat which allows it to go mixed when it wants in order to break through special walls. However, it suffers from the fact that its Speed and bulk are slightly underwhelming at times, and when it is utilizing a rain sweeper set, the nerf to the amount of times rain lasts gives it a time limit on utilizing its Swift Swim and Water-type STAB boosts.
CritDra
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name: CritDra
move 1: Focus Energy
move 2: Draco Meteor
move 3: Hydro Pump / Surf
move 4: Agility
ability: Sniper
item: Scope Lens
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
nature: Modest
Moves
========
With the new critical hit mechanics, using the move Focus Energy on a Pokemon holding a Scope Lens causes every hit to be a critical hit; with Kingdra's Sniper ability, critical hits do 2.25x damage. Critical hits also bypass Draco Meteor's Special Attack drops and can break through defensive boosters. In this set, Draco Meteor is the main STAB move as it is powerful and it can be used indefinitely without repercussions. As a Water-type move, Hydro Pump in generally the best due to its power, but Surf can be used for the if Hydro Pump's poor accuracy is troubling. Agility is the sole option in the last slot for when Kingdra is facing more offensive teams and its lackluster Speed is not sufficient. To put it simply, Focus Energy should be used against defensive teams while Agililty should be used against offensive teams. As alternatives for Agility, one can run a desired Hidden Power to eliminate a certain counter to Kingdra. Hidden Power Fire can OHKO Ferrothorn with a critical hit while Hidden Power Grass can deal hefty damage to Azumarill, easily KOing it after a small amount of prior damage. This set can also run Outrage purely just so that Kingdra can 2HKO Chansey after a Focus Energy.
Set Details
========
A spread that uses full Special Attack and Speed investment allows Kingdra to outspeed Deoxys-S and Choice Scarf Latios after an Agility and max Speed Dragonite and Breloom without a boost. It also allows Kingdra to Speed tie with Pinsir before it Mega Evolves. However, an alternate EV spread of 80 HP / 252 SpA / 176 Spe can be used to outspeed Choice Scarf Garchomp after an Agility as well as fully investing in Special Attack, while slotting the rest of the EVs in HP to add a bit of bulk for ease in setting up. A Modest nature is the most preferable to increase power as this set uses mono-special coverage, but if one chooses to use Outrage, a Rash nature could be used instead.
Usage Tips
========
Utilize Kingdra's ability to force switches to your advantage; this is to allow setup opportunities with Focus Energy or Agility. Focus Energy is the most beneficial setup move to use against defensive teams, as it allows Kingdra to hit massively hard against them, breaking through most defensive staples easily. Against faster, more offensive teams, Agility should be used to outspeed the opposing Pokemon, potentially leading to a sweep with Kingdra's STAB moves. Bear in mind that when using Agility, Kingdra will be affected by Draco Meteor's Special Attack drops, so it can't sweep as effectively against foes that resist the Water-type Water. However, if you can manage to get up both boosts, Kingdra doesn't have to worry about any of the problems posed by only using one or the other. Kingdra's excellent typing allows it to switch in on Fire- and Water-type moves easily, which is especially helpful against Choice-locked attackers to allow an easy setup setting up of either Focus Energy or Agility. Unlike most other sweepers, defensive boosters do not bother Kingdra, so this makes Kingdra an excellent way of breaking through these boosters if they start setting up, perfect for acting as a fail-safe.
Team Options
========
This set has trouble with Ferrothorn and Azumarill, so partners that can take care of these threats for Kingdra are immensely appreciated. Heatran, Conkeldurr, and Talonflame can all deal with Ferrothorn, and Azumarill can easily be eliminated by Mega Venusaur, Manaphy, Celebi, or Aegislash. In particular, Mega Garchomp can deal with both Ferrothorn and Azumarill with by using Fire Blast and Earthquake respectively. For a set without Agility, Scolipede is a prime partner, as Kingdra's main flaw is its slightly sub-par Speed. Scolipede can Baton Pass Speed and Iron Defense boosts, a Substitute to ease Kingdra in setting up, and can even set up Spikes to help with Kingdra's sweep. In addition, it draws in Fire-type moves,(AC) which Kingdra can easily absorb thanks to its 4x resistance to them. Another way of remedying Kingdra's poor Speed is a Sticky Web inducer, such as Galvantula or Smeargle.
Rain Sweeper
########
name: Rain Sweeper
move 1: Hydro Pump
move 2: Draco Meteor
move 3: Rain Dance / Outrage
move 4: Waterfall / Surf / Ice Beam
item: Life Orb
evs: 76 Atk / 4 Def / 252 SpA / 176 Spe
nature: Rash / Modest
Moves
========
This Kingdra set is used to sweep in the rain with its Swift Swim boost and the boost to its Water-type STAB. Hydro Pump is Kingdra's most powerful Water-type STAB move,(AC) as it deals massive damage to anything in the rain and is generally the preferred choice. Its shaky accuracy can be a problem,(AC) though, so Surf can be used as a more reliable alternative. Draco Meteor is a secondary STAB move; it is powerful, though a use of it will halt Kingdra's sweep. It is essential in breaking through bulky Water-types,(AC) though, and other things that resist the Hydro Pump. Rain Dance is a option here for Kingdra to set up rain without Politoed if necessary, which is definitely helpful as a backup. However, Outrage can be used mainly as a strong neutral STAB move for Pokemon that resist Water-type attacks, and it can be used after Draco Meteor's Special Attack drop. It also is great against Rotom-W and specially defensive Pokemon, but it does have a nasty side effect of locking Kingdra into it. Waterfall is a physical Water-type STAB move that deals hefty damage to Blissey and Chansey in rain. However, Surf can be used in this slot as a reliable special Water-type STAB move. Ice Beam is a handy coverage move to 2HKO Celebi and Trevenant, but it is often out-damaged by Kingdra's other moves, especially in the rain, while as an alternative to Draco Meteor, Dragon Pulse is good for Water-types when the Draco Meteor Special Attack drop is undesirable, and ; (way too many commas) as always, the accuracy is helpful as well.
Set Details
========
Kingdra uses full Special Attack investment,(AC) as it is its most commonly used offensive stat, and 176 Speed EVs let it outrun Choice Scarf Garchomp in the rain. 4 Defense EVs mean that give Genesect obtains a Special Attack boost, which allows it to take less damage from a Choice Band Genesect's Extreme Speed; this is only relevant for Modest Kingdra. Rash Kingdra should just put those extra EVs into Attack with all of the remaining EVs. Alternatively, one can run 40 Attack EVs, 240 Special Attack EVs, and 228 Speed EVs, which allows a spread of 40 Atk / 240 SpA / 228 Spe, allowing Kingdra to outpace Choice Scarf Latios in the rain. Sets using no physical moves should run a Modest nature and use a spread of 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe. Life Orb is the preferred item to boost the power of Kingdra without locking it into one move.
Usage Tips
========
Rain doesn't last long, whether it is from a Politoed with a Damp Rock or Kingdra's own Rain Dance. Make sure to take advantage of the amount of time you have; use it as efficiently as possible. If you predict a foe to switch out, use the appropriate move to dent the switch-in rather than doing negligible damage on to them. Kingdra sweeps best late-game after things foes like Ferrothorn are removed, but if it is a win condition for you earlier in the game, then go for it. With Life Orb and Kingdra's susceptibility to all entry hazards, it is wise to bring Kingdra in on a double switch or after a teammate has fainted. However, its handy 4x resistances to Fire- and Water-type moves does allow it the reassurance of being able to safely switch in on these moves.
Team Options
========
Politoed is a mandatory partner for the permanent rain it provides, particularly for sets that don't run Rain Dance. Kingdra should also be paired with other rain sweepers such as Ludicolo, Kabutops, Tornadus-T, and Keldeo. Magnezone and Gothitelle are great partners,(AC) as they can eliminate Ferrothorn with Hidden Power Fire; bear in mind that this should be done before rain is set up. Rotom-W makes for a good partner,(AC) as it can easily deal with Azumarill while also aiding Kingdra in entering the battle safely with Volt Switch. As mentioned before, Keldeo is a good partner not only because it benefits from rain, but also because it break through Blissey and Chansey. Thundurus can break through bulky Water-types with impunity, and it can use U-turn to keep up momentum (or whatever it does...). Kingdra is also worn down quickly by Life Orb, so Rapid Spin or Defog support is often required to enable Kingdra to stay alive as long as possible. Scizor and Starmie both benefit from rain, so they are generally good choices.
Other Options
########
Substitute + Dragon Dance could see use as an alternate set, but it makes Kingdra much easier to wall as it is limited to only its STAB moves. A Choice Specs set can function as a rain counter, but with the weather nerf, rain is rarer, and Choice Specs Kingdra lacks sufficient Speed in most situations. Sets with that run Dragon Dance are usable, but the introduction of the Fairy-type means that Outrage is not a good move to be locked into anymore. Finally, ChestoRest is a possible set, but it limits Kingdra's coverage.
Checks & Counters
########
**Ferrothorn**: Ferrothorn walls the rain sweeper set completely and can also take anything on the CritDra set bar the rare Hidden Power Fire after a Focus Energy. It can then proceed to cripple Kingdra with Thunder Wave, use Leech Seed, or set up entry hazards.
**Azumarill**: Azumarill can switch in on any move and OHKO with Play Rough. It can't even be OHKOed by the rare Hidden Power Grass on a critical hit, and it can easily switch in on the rain sweeper set.
**Sylveon**: Sylveon can switch in on any move and proceed to OHKO with Hyper Voice. It is 2HKOed by Hydro Pump on a critical hit, but Sylveon would almost always switch in as Kingdra uses Focus Energy, so this is hardly relevant.
**Chansey and Blissey**: Chansey can only be 2HKOed by the rare CritDra Outrage from CritDra and it can cripple Kingdra with Toxic or Thunder Wave, or simply just stall it out with Wish + Protect. Blissey can do a similar job, but only against the CritDra set.
**Togekiss and Mega Gardevoir**: Specially defensive Togekiss can switch in on a Focus Energy and do hefty damage to Kingdra with Dazzling Gleam. Mega Gardevoir can also switch in on the initial Focus Energy and OHKO with Hyper Voice.
GP 2/2 TRC. , you might wanna look into some of your weird sentence wordings. n_n
Should be Mega Venusaur, instead of just Venusaur, when talking about Outrage in the moves section. That's my bad.
Thanks TRC.
Thanks TRC.
Under team options for the swift swim set, it says politoed is mandatory for the permanent rain it provides.
It's not permanent anymore, right?
It's not permanent anymore, right?
Correct.
Also.
"With these changes, Kingdra can run a set which is guaranteed to always obtain a critical hit, working fantastically with Kingdra's Sniper ability by boosting every attack 2.25x on the critical hit, which is guaranteed after one Focus Energy"
This is more a grammar issue, but it seems redundant.
"With these changes, Kingdra can run a set which is guaranteed to always obtain a critical hit, working fantastically with Kingdra's Sniper ability by boosting every attack 2.25x on the critical hit, which is guaranteed after one Focus Energy"
This is more a grammar issue, but it seems redundant.
Some of the font in CritDra's 'Moves' section seems to have different sizes.
Edit: Yeah Caramelqueen that's the one.
Edit: Yeah Caramelqueen that's the one.
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"In this set, Draco Meteor is the main STAB move as it is powerful and it can be used indefinitely without repercussions"
You mean this part right?
TRC.
I don't know why CritDra is the first set, but please change that immediately lol. Kingdra's best set is the obviously the offensive Swift Swim set, and it's the only reason it should really be used on a serious OU team tbh. Not saying CritDra is terrible, but I kind of am. Also Choice Specs should definitely get more of a mention if not a slash on the Swift Swim set, because its raw power and crazy speed makes it incredibly easy to overwhelm teams. Specs Hydro in general just nukes everything. I think the SS set needs a bit of work on it, but I think just moving it up and potentially putting Specs in there somewhere is good for now.
I don't know why CritDra is the first set, but please change that immediately lol. Kingdra's best set is the obviously the offensive Swift Swim set, and it's the only reason it should really be used on a serious OU team tbh. Not saying CritDra is terrible, but I kind of am. Also Choice Specs should definitely get more of a mention if not a slash on the Swift Swim set, because its raw power and crazy speed makes it incredibly easy to overwhelm teams. Specs Hydro in general just nukes everything. I think the SS set needs a bit of work on it, but I think just moving it up and potentially putting Specs in there somewhere is good for now.
I agree Kingdra's best niche is swift swim nuke under rain but the Critdra set is pretty good as it is such a potent stop or at least check to stuff like CM Keldeo, Suicune, Slowbro, Sigilyph and even to an extent CM Clefable which can be really valuable to a few team archetypes on top of the fact that it hits like a nuke.
Most of the things you mentioned aren't relevant enough or CritDra doesn't actually check. CM Keldeo can 2HKO it with Secret Sword before Kingdra gets off a Focus Energy, and it can live a Draco Meteor. If Keldeo already has a SpA boost, no way in hell does it stop it. Slowbro can't take a Specs or LO Draco Meteor well at all from SS Kingdra, and Suicune I guess so, but like it's not like it's so extremely common enough to a point where CritDra is better because of it. Sigilyph lol, not even gonna talk about that. CM Clefable completely murders Kingdra anyway, so you'd absolutely HAVE to get up a Focus Energy before you could even come close to OHKOing Clefable. But yeah, CritDra can't really "check" any of these things, nor does it prove to me that it's better than its Rain set.
I never said it's better. I agree that the Rain sweeper set is better. However, I wanted to state that the Critdra set isn't shit like you made it out to be. Oh and by the way, with a little bulk investment, Kingdra can live a +2 secret sword from Keldeo and guarantee a OHKO with a crit Draco Meteor. Most of the time, what happens is that Keldeo CM's as I switch Kingdra in. Then fearing the rain sweeper set, Keldeo will normally CM one more time to ensure Draco Meteor doesn't kill. However, when I focus energy. The opponent will then secret sword and I will live and kill with Draco Meteor. Clefable admittedly is shaky but if Clefable switches in, Kingdra will kill with hydro pump and lives a +0 Moonblast.
Just to set the record straight:
+2 252 SpA Keldeo Secret Sword vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Kingdra: 288-340 (98.6 - 116.4%) -- 93.8% chance to OHKO
Is there any merit to using Timid on either set? I've gotten several Timid Horseas in-game and was curious if it was worth waiting to get a Modest one, but there appears to be no mention of the usual speed vs. power debate that a decent number of pokemon have.
Not particularly. Notice that both sets carry a reliable way to boost speed by two stages—Rain Dance and/or Agility. At that point, Kingdra is so fast that the speed boost from using a Timid nature is inconsequential. Although the CritDra set isn't always going to find itself at +2 Speed like the Swift Swim set will, note that one of Critdra's main applications is as a wallbreaker, in which case Speed is rarely necessary.
After testing it multiple times, I feel that Critdra should be removed.
Critdra, in my opinion, is nothing more than a gimmick. From my experience using a facing critdra, I have often found it to be lackluster against offensive teams, as Kingdra requires 2 turns to setup (one for Agility to outspeed things like Garchomp and one for Focus Energy to give Kingdra some usable power) and more often then not, offensive teams will never let Kingdra setup both Agility and Focus Energy. Against Balanced and stall teams, Critdra will still struggle, as Azumarill and Ferrothorn / Chansey are common staples on these types of teams. This leads me to believe that Critdra is relatively ineffective in the metagame.
If Critdra does continue to receive an analysis, Agility should be replaced with Hidden Power Fire and Hidden Power Grass. Critdra will rarely be effective against offensive teams due to its requirement of setting up both Agility and Focus Energy, while Hidden Power Fire and Grass enables Kingdra to fare better vs balanced and stall teams due to their ability to hit Ferrothorn and Azumarill for super effective damage. Outrage may also warrant a slash due to its ability to 2HKO Chansey and Blissey.
Some less notable points about the analysis in general
Critdra, in my opinion, is nothing more than a gimmick. From my experience using a facing critdra, I have often found it to be lackluster against offensive teams, as Kingdra requires 2 turns to setup (one for Agility to outspeed things like Garchomp and one for Focus Energy to give Kingdra some usable power) and more often then not, offensive teams will never let Kingdra setup both Agility and Focus Energy. Against Balanced and stall teams, Critdra will still struggle, as Azumarill and Ferrothorn / Chansey are common staples on these types of teams. This leads me to believe that Critdra is relatively ineffective in the metagame.
If Critdra does continue to receive an analysis, Agility should be replaced with Hidden Power Fire and Hidden Power Grass. Critdra will rarely be effective against offensive teams due to its requirement of setting up both Agility and Focus Energy, while Hidden Power Fire and Grass enables Kingdra to fare better vs balanced and stall teams due to their ability to hit Ferrothorn and Azumarill for super effective damage. Outrage may also warrant a slash due to its ability to 2HKO Chansey and Blissey.
Some less notable points about the analysis in general
- Surf should be replaced with Scald on every set unless there are any notable KOes that surf achieves that Scald does not
- The 2 useless HP evs need to be removed from the rain set
- The checks and counters section should probably just make one section for Fairy-types instead of individually mentioning them.
Ash Borer
I've heard they're short of room in hell
hp poison, fool. Hits whimsicott and azumarill, whereas hp grass only hits azumarill. Or HP electric which hits both Empoleon and Azumarill. HP grass buys you a 4x effectiveness against Gastrodon/Quags which is basically useless
Also critdra doesnt give a fuck about unaware, so, maybe mention that somewhere? Thats pretty applealing tbh.
Also critdra doesnt give a fuck about unaware, so, maybe mention that somewhere? Thats pretty applealing tbh.
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Think of Critdra sort of like Gen V's Double Booster Thundurus-T. Focus Energy lets Critdra turn into a powerful attacker that can dish out absurdly powerful hits. Agility allows Critdra to sweep with doubled speed. You're not expected to boost with both Agility and Focus Energy, you're expected to use whichever move is best for the situation. Slower teams tend to be bulkier, so you use Focus Energy. Faster teams tend to be frailer, so you use Agility (and you don't send out Critdra until it can clean up, either). If you can get both boosts, great, you can steamroll over nearly anything, but that's not really the point.
Agility is overall more beneficial than either Hidden Power Fire or Grass. Using either of those moves makes Critdra nearly dead weight against faster offensive teams, whereas Agility can actually allow Critdra to pose somewhat of a threat, as it can outspeed nearly everything at +2 and gets remarkably great neutral coverage with only its STABs. Note that as of now, each of the moves you mention (HP Fire, HP Grass, and Outrage) are all mentioned in "moves."
EDIT: yay logic
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