Ahh, completely forgot about him (Idk how since it's Shaymin's best counter in both RU and UU.) Mentioned!
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XY UU Threat List
- Thread starter trc
- Start date
Reserving Froslass.
edit: never mind
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Reserving Cofagrigus (Defensive)
TRC.
Froslass
Type: Ice / Ghost
Base Stats: 70 HP / 80 Atk / 70 Def / 80 SpA / 70 SpD / 110 Spe
Ability: Snow Cloak / Cursed Body
Froslass only standout stat is her Speed, but she makes use of it well, carrying out her supportive and disruptive duties admirably. Froslass knows Spikes, which she can even conveniently spinblock by virtue of her Ghost typing. Her Speed allows her to use Taunt effectively, preventing foes from setting up on Froslass or disrupting her as she lays down Spikes, or can be used in conjunction with Destiny Bond to force a double KO. The fast Destiny Bond even allows Froslass to stop the tier's hardest Rapid Spinner to block, Mega Blastoise, by bringing it down as it KOes Froslass, denying the Spin. The moveslots usually leaves Froslass with room for only one attack, but either Ice Beam or Shadow Ball are certainly not bad STABs to have. While Froslass's frailty means Cursed Body won't see much play, it can potentially disable the opponent's only effective attack against Froslass due to her immunities as a Ghost-type, further adding to the disruption she can already induce. These qualities allow Froslass to snag a tremendous amount of momentum early game, tilting the match to the player's favor in the beginning of the match with quick Spikes followed by Destiny Bond to bring your sweepers in unharmed and ready to rumble.
Froslass
Type: Ice / Ghost
Base Stats: 70 HP / 80 Atk / 70 Def / 80 SpA / 70 SpD / 110 Spe
Ability: Snow Cloak / Cursed Body
Froslass only standout stat is her Speed, but she makes use of it well, carrying out her supportive and disruptive duties admirably. Froslass knows Spikes, which she can even conveniently spinblock by virtue of her Ghost typing. Her Speed allows her to use Taunt effectively, preventing foes from setting up on Froslass or disrupting her as she lays down Spikes, or can be used in conjunction with Destiny Bond to force a double KO. The fast Destiny Bond even allows Froslass to stop the tier's hardest Rapid Spinner to block, Mega Blastoise, by bringing it down as it KOes Froslass, denying the Spin. The moveslots usually leaves Froslass with room for only one attack, but either Ice Beam or Shadow Ball are certainly not bad STABs to have. While Froslass's frailty means Cursed Body won't see much play, it can potentially disable the opponent's only effective attack against Froslass due to her immunities as a Ghost-type, further adding to the disruption she can already induce. These qualities allow Froslass to snag a tremendous amount of momentum early game, tilting the match to the player's favor in the beginning of the match with quick Spikes followed by Destiny Bond to bring your sweepers in unharmed and ready to rumble.
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Cofagrigus
Type: Ghost
Base Stats: 58 HP / 50 Atk / 145 Def / 95 SpA / 105 SpD / 30 Spe
Ability: Mummy
Cofagrigus is the bane of the vast majority of physical attackers' existence. A stellar base 145 Defense stat coupled with decent mono-Ghost typing means Cofagrigus has 2 immunities, and can switch into a large majority of physical attackers without worry. It also has an excellent Ability in Mummy, which nullifies the effects of the Ability of any opponent who makes physical contact, which can cripple a Pokemon reliant on it's own Ability to be effective, and force the switch. As if that wasn't enough, it also has access to Will-O-Wisp, even further crippling physical attackers who dare take it on. It also has recovery options, either utilizing it's own low base 58 HP stat to take advantage of Pain Split, or running Rest to make it incredibly hard to take down. Cofagrigus can also provide Trick Room support, turning it's abysmal base 30 Speed stat into a huge advantage while also aiding slower teammates. It also has a very respectable base 105 Special Defense, so it can run a mixed wall set with Calm Mind, giving up some of it's physical bulk to make it more defensively well-rounded while maintaining an offensive presence. If your team lacks physical bulk, you may not need to look any further than the Coffin Pokemon.
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Reserving Rotom-C (both Offensive & Defensive)
Reserving Cobalion (Offensive)
Cobalion
Type: Steel / Fighting
Base Stats: 91 HP / 90 Atk / 129 Def / 90 SpA / 72 SpDef / 108 Spe
Ability: Justified
While 129 base Defense may makes Cobalion seem like more of a defensive threat, it has all the right tool to be a powerful offensive threat, too. Thanks to it typing, Cobalion boasts a total of 7 resistances and 1 immunity, including an ever-helpful Dark-type resistance. Combine this with his ability, Justified, and Cobalion can usually find numerous chances to set up during a match. Swords Dance is the boosting move of choice on Cobalion, allowing him to boost his good 90 base Attack to powerful levels. His dual STABs also provide him with great coverage, hitting a ton of the UU tier for neutral coverage. Stone Edge rounds out Cobalion's coverage, allowing him to hit Pokemon such as Victini, who would otherwise wall him. Hidden Power Ice and X-Scissor are other coverage option Cobalion has; the former hitting the rare but annoying Gligar, while the latter hits Psychic-types such as Mew and Reuniclus for better damage. Lum Berry is usually the item of choice, as it allows Cobalion to set up without having to worry about status. Life Orb, however, can be used to increase his damage output to very high levels. Overall, Cobalion is a powerful Swords Dance user who every team should prepare for.
Offensive
Rotom-C
Type: Electric / Grass
Base Stats: 50 HP / 65 Atk / 107 Def / 105 SpA / 107 SpD / 86 Spe
Ability: Levitate
Although it’s never been seen as the best of the Rotom formes, the new 6th gen mechanics have actually been very kind to the possessed lawnmower. It’s unique Electric / Grass typing means it can’t be paralyzed or Spored anymore, and it generally doesn’t care about burns, or Toxic damage because of Volt Switch, so Rotom-C can shrug off common status moves better than any other forme. The staple of any Rotom set is Volt Switch, a move that turns Rotom-C into an offensive pivot, letting you bring in a check or counter to your opponent for free while dealing decent STAB damage. Although Leaf Storm has it’s downsides, a base 140 STAB move coming off of decent base 105 Special Attack hits very hard when boosted by Choice Specs, hitting Pokemon who are immune to Volt Switch like Swampert and Gastrodon hard. Thunderbolt provides a more reliable Electric-type STAB, and Hidden Power Ice gives Rotom-C some needed coverage, dealing with Nidoking, Nidoqueen, Flygon, and Crobat. A Choice Scarf set with Trick can also cripple opposing walls, leaving prominent defensive threats like Florges, Umbreon, and Suicune severely hampered. It can also take a hit well, with base 107 in both defenses, can run Pain Split effectively because of it’s low base 50 HP to prolong itself, and has access to Will-O-Wisp or Thunder Wave if your team lacks those options. Underestimate Rotom-C’s offensive presence at your peril.
Defensive
Rotom-C
Type: Electric / Grass
Base Stats: 50 HP / 65 Atk / 107 Def / 105 SpA / 107 SpD / 86 Spe
Ability: Levitate
Thanks to the new 6th gen mechanics, Rotom-C can act as a defensive Pokemon more effectively than ever. An immunity to paralysis and sleep from powder moves grants it a very good niche above other defensive choices. An immunity to Ground-type attacks too in the ever-useful Levitate means it can freely switch into opposing Earthquakes and Earth Powers without a care too. Access to Volt Switch means Rotom-C can perform as a very effective defensive pivot, allowing you to grab the momentum back from your opponent. Pokemon immune to Volt Switch such as Nidoking, Nidoqueen, Flygon, Swampert, and Hippowdon all don’t appreciate STAB Leaf Storm or Hidden Power Ice, so Rotom-C isn’t left stranded against threats that it can’t touch with it’s main STAB. A Choice Scarf set with Trick can cripple other defensive opponents such as Florges, Umbreon, and Suicune, whilst simultaneously gaining Leftovers recovery, an item which is commonly run on defensive Pokemon. Pain Split provides needed recovery, although a ChestoRest set can be just as useful to keep Rotom-C in the game for longer. It can also spread status with Will-O-Wisp and Thunder Wave to clear the way for your attackers to claim you the match. All these tools mean Rotom-C can constantly turn the tide of the match in your favor, and it’s niche shouldn’t overlooked in XY UU.
Rotom-C
Type: Electric / Grass
Base Stats: 50 HP / 65 Atk / 107 Def / 105 SpA / 107 SpD / 86 Spe
Ability: Levitate
Although it’s never been seen as the best of the Rotom formes, the new 6th gen mechanics have actually been very kind to the possessed lawnmower. It’s unique Electric / Grass typing means it can’t be paralyzed or Spored anymore, and it generally doesn’t care about burns, or Toxic damage because of Volt Switch, so Rotom-C can shrug off common status moves better than any other forme. The staple of any Rotom set is Volt Switch, a move that turns Rotom-C into an offensive pivot, letting you bring in a check or counter to your opponent for free while dealing decent STAB damage. Although Leaf Storm has it’s downsides, a base 140 STAB move coming off of decent base 105 Special Attack hits very hard when boosted by Choice Specs, hitting Pokemon who are immune to Volt Switch like Swampert and Gastrodon hard. Thunderbolt provides a more reliable Electric-type STAB, and Hidden Power Ice gives Rotom-C some needed coverage, dealing with Nidoking, Nidoqueen, Flygon, and Crobat. A Choice Scarf set with Trick can also cripple opposing walls, leaving prominent defensive threats like Florges, Umbreon, and Suicune severely hampered. It can also take a hit well, with base 107 in both defenses, can run Pain Split effectively because of it’s low base 50 HP to prolong itself, and has access to Will-O-Wisp or Thunder Wave if your team lacks those options. Underestimate Rotom-C’s offensive presence at your peril.
Defensive
Rotom-C
Type: Electric / Grass
Base Stats: 50 HP / 65 Atk / 107 Def / 105 SpA / 107 SpD / 86 Spe
Ability: Levitate
Thanks to the new 6th gen mechanics, Rotom-C can act as a defensive Pokemon more effectively than ever. An immunity to paralysis and sleep from powder moves grants it a very good niche above other defensive choices. An immunity to Ground-type attacks too in the ever-useful Levitate means it can freely switch into opposing Earthquakes and Earth Powers without a care too. Access to Volt Switch means Rotom-C can perform as a very effective defensive pivot, allowing you to grab the momentum back from your opponent. Pokemon immune to Volt Switch such as Nidoking, Nidoqueen, Flygon, Swampert, and Hippowdon all don’t appreciate STAB Leaf Storm or Hidden Power Ice, so Rotom-C isn’t left stranded against threats that it can’t touch with it’s main STAB. A Choice Scarf set with Trick can cripple other defensive opponents such as Florges, Umbreon, and Suicune, whilst simultaneously gaining Leftovers recovery, an item which is commonly run on defensive Pokemon. Pain Split provides needed recovery, although a ChestoRest set can be just as useful to keep Rotom-C in the game for longer. It can also spread status with Will-O-Wisp and Thunder Wave to clear the way for your attackers to claim you the match. All these tools mean Rotom-C can constantly turn the tide of the match in your favor, and it’s niche shouldn’t overlooked in XY UU.
Reserving Offensive & Defensive Mew.
Edit: The Offensive is finished.
Edit 2: The Defensive is finished.
Offensive
Mew
Type: Psychic
Base Stats: 100 / 100 / 100 / 100 / 100 / 100
Ability: Synchronize
Sparring a definite fine 100 All-Round base stats, and a movepool behind comprehension, Mew surely is a force to be reckoned with. With these stats and movepool, it allows it to confuse opponents making them think if it is Offensive, or Defensive. It also has two great boosting moves being Nasty Plot, and Swords Dance. With it's near infinite movepool, its Nasty Plot set have many moves to choose from. Psyshock tends to be a staple to hit special walls. However, you may use Psychic if your team will not have trouble defeating special walls. Fire Blast tends to be the best option to destroy Steel Types that would otherwise eat the Psychic moves. Giga Drain can be the final option to have extra recovery and hit bulky Water Types at the same time, however, Dark Pulse and Aura Sphere can be used over it to hit Pokemon that would otherwise resist the set, such as Victini, and Umbreon/Mega Houndoom respectively. Mew can also run a viable Swords Dance set which can be as destructive as it's Nasty Plot set! With Sucker Punch and 100 Base Speed, it's one of the best priority users of UU! Zen Headbutt is Mew's main STAB attack, which can OHKO many of the tier's threats with +2. Finally, the last slot can be Drain Punch, which helps it deal with Dark Types that would normally counter this set completely! With all of this in mind, Mew can always be your winning condition in X/Y UU.
Defensive
Mew
Type: Psychic
Base Stats: 100 / 100 / 100 / 100 / 100 / 100
Ability: Synchronize
Falling in grace from D/P Ubers, Mew finds itself in UU, but don't think that it makes it any less viable. All-Round 100 Base Stats, and a near endless movepool allows Mew to support itself, and it's team, better then almost any Pokemon in UU. With decent 100 Base Stats, Mew can be both a Physical, or Special Tank, either work extremely well and will depend on what your team will enjoy more. To make Mew even more frightening - few Pokemon can ever safely cripple it depending on it's type due to it's ability Synchronize! Mew may not sport the best bulk in 100/100/100, but Mew can stop many sweepers as well! With it's absurd movepool offering it Will-O-Wisp, and Thunder Wave to cripple them, not many sweepers can come in safely! Now Mew can do all this, it has much more! It has Roost/Soft-Boiled to increase it's longevity, it has Taunt to stop slower walls/tanks. It also learns Roar if you want to phaze things, which many tanks can wish for. In general, Mew should never be overlooked as with it's movepool and decent stats, it can make many teams extremely dangerous, every team should be ready for it.
Edit: The Offensive is finished.
Edit 2: The Defensive is finished.
Offensive
Mew
Type: Psychic
Base Stats: 100 / 100 / 100 / 100 / 100 / 100
Ability: Synchronize
Sparring a definite fine 100 All-Round base stats, and a movepool behind comprehension, Mew surely is a force to be reckoned with. With these stats and movepool, it allows it to confuse opponents making them think if it is Offensive, or Defensive. It also has two great boosting moves being Nasty Plot, and Swords Dance. With it's near infinite movepool, its Nasty Plot set have many moves to choose from. Psyshock tends to be a staple to hit special walls. However, you may use Psychic if your team will not have trouble defeating special walls. Fire Blast tends to be the best option to destroy Steel Types that would otherwise eat the Psychic moves. Giga Drain can be the final option to have extra recovery and hit bulky Water Types at the same time, however, Dark Pulse and Aura Sphere can be used over it to hit Pokemon that would otherwise resist the set, such as Victini, and Umbreon/Mega Houndoom respectively. Mew can also run a viable Swords Dance set which can be as destructive as it's Nasty Plot set! With Sucker Punch and 100 Base Speed, it's one of the best priority users of UU! Zen Headbutt is Mew's main STAB attack, which can OHKO many of the tier's threats with +2. Finally, the last slot can be Drain Punch, which helps it deal with Dark Types that would normally counter this set completely! With all of this in mind, Mew can always be your winning condition in X/Y UU.
Defensive
Mew
Type: Psychic
Base Stats: 100 / 100 / 100 / 100 / 100 / 100
Ability: Synchronize
Falling in grace from D/P Ubers, Mew finds itself in UU, but don't think that it makes it any less viable. All-Round 100 Base Stats, and a near endless movepool allows Mew to support itself, and it's team, better then almost any Pokemon in UU. With decent 100 Base Stats, Mew can be both a Physical, or Special Tank, either work extremely well and will depend on what your team will enjoy more. To make Mew even more frightening - few Pokemon can ever safely cripple it depending on it's type due to it's ability Synchronize! Mew may not sport the best bulk in 100/100/100, but Mew can stop many sweepers as well! With it's absurd movepool offering it Will-O-Wisp, and Thunder Wave to cripple them, not many sweepers can come in safely! Now Mew can do all this, it has much more! It has Roost/Soft-Boiled to increase it's longevity, it has Taunt to stop slower walls/tanks. It also learns Roar if you want to phaze things, which many tanks can wish for. In general, Mew should never be overlooked as with it's movepool and decent stats, it can make many teams extremely dangerous, every team should be ready for it.
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Hippowdon
Type: Ground
Base Stats: 108 HP / 112 Atk / 118 Def / 68 SpA / 72 SpD / 47 Spe
Abilities: Sand Stream / Sand Force
Falling from OU because of the weather nerf, Hippowdon takes its place as one of the best walls in UU. Its physical bulk is high enough to sponge almost any attack, and its special bulk is good enough to use with enough investment. Sand Stream is a great ability, though Sand Force works if your team has Pokemon that hate residual damage such as a Focus Sash user. Hippowdon gets great support moves such as Stealth Rock, Toxic, Whirlwind, and Slack Off, while its high attack and access to Earthquake stop it from being Taunt bait. It makes for a very good Stealth Rock user in the current Defog-infested metagame, as it is bulky enough to set them up many times in a match. Whirlwind works better than Roar because it isn't blocked by Soundproof, and coupled with Stealth Rock and Sand Stream it can cause a lot of residual damage to your opponent. Finally, Toxic and Slack Off can work together to take out any Pokemon that can't 2HKO Hippowdon. If you have an offensive team that doesn't have a very good answer to Hippowdon, it will be sure to wall you to death.
I'd like to make a case for including Exploud in the offensive section, & M-Banette in the support section. Specs Exploud hits like an absolute truck, can hit everything including Ghosts with STAB, has good coverage options, & sweeps under Trick Room. There's Pokemon that are on the list that get less use & hit less hard than Exploud so I think it definitely warrants a spot on the list. Also, M-Banette deserves a spot in the support section because it gets Prankster + a plethora of great support moves, & a massive Attack stat. There's lots of useful sets it can run & it's a very unpredictable opponent to come up against. & it's almost guaranteed a kill with Prankster Destiny Bond. Just my two cents.
Since I have ample time right now, I guess I might as well get my entries in.
Cofagrigus
Type: Ghost
Base Stats: 58 HP / 50 Atk / 145 Def / 95 SpA / 105 SpD / 30 Spe
Ability: Mummy
Cofagrigus makes a strong choice for a bulky special sweeper thanks to its excellent bulk, a good defensive typing, and offensive movepool. Although its offenses may seem much too low to sweep, Cofagrigus has access to Trick Room and Nasty Plot, allowing it to "outspeed" everything under the former's effects and effectively sweep. Cofagrigus attains perfect coverage in Shadow Ball and Hidden Power Fighting, meaning there aren't many Pokemon who can safely take on Cofagrigus, especially after a Nasty Plot boost. Cofagrigus's bulk gives it several opportunities to set up, especially given its ability to handle threats such as Mienshao and Heracross. Cofagrigus can also run Will-O-Wisp to cripple its potential counters, such as Honchkrow and Snorlax. If you need a special sweeper and something that can last simultaneously, Cofagrigus will certainly make a great selection for your team.
Machamp
Type: Fighting
Base Stats: 90 HP / 130 Atk / 80 Def / 65 SpA / 85 SpD / 55 Spe
Abilities: Guts / No Guard / Steadfast
Machamp's claim to fame since DPP has been its perfectly accurate DynamicPunch, and that hasn't changed in XY UU. Thanks to DynamicPunch's high power and guaranteed confusion chance, Machamp can both heavily damage and annoy opponents not immune to it. Machamp also has great coverage moves to back it up, including Stone Edge, Knock Off, and Ice Punch, all coming off of a high 130 Attack stat. This makes Machamp quite hard to switch into, and it also has decent bulk to take some hits. Machamp commonly runs either an Assault Vest, which lets it take special attacks well and fire strong attacks, or Substitute, which lets it fire DynamicPunches more easily. While Machamp may face competition from some other Fighting-types, namely Heracross and Mienshao, its qualities make it a fearsome threat to face; underestimate it at your own peril.
I'll take Mismagius and Galvantula. Also, Scrafty probably deserves a spot on this threatlist, no I am not advocating it simply because I like it, but it's a pretty decent Assault Vest user with great coverage, and also a nice boosting sweeper with either Bulk Up or Dragon Dance; its abilities and bulk help it a lot in these roles. It's also pretty firmly in UU right now, something to consider.
Cofagrigus
Type: Ghost
Base Stats: 58 HP / 50 Atk / 145 Def / 95 SpA / 105 SpD / 30 Spe
Ability: Mummy
Cofagrigus makes a strong choice for a bulky special sweeper thanks to its excellent bulk, a good defensive typing, and offensive movepool. Although its offenses may seem much too low to sweep, Cofagrigus has access to Trick Room and Nasty Plot, allowing it to "outspeed" everything under the former's effects and effectively sweep. Cofagrigus attains perfect coverage in Shadow Ball and Hidden Power Fighting, meaning there aren't many Pokemon who can safely take on Cofagrigus, especially after a Nasty Plot boost. Cofagrigus's bulk gives it several opportunities to set up, especially given its ability to handle threats such as Mienshao and Heracross. Cofagrigus can also run Will-O-Wisp to cripple its potential counters, such as Honchkrow and Snorlax. If you need a special sweeper and something that can last simultaneously, Cofagrigus will certainly make a great selection for your team.
Machamp
Type: Fighting
Base Stats: 90 HP / 130 Atk / 80 Def / 65 SpA / 85 SpD / 55 Spe
Abilities: Guts / No Guard / Steadfast
Machamp's claim to fame since DPP has been its perfectly accurate DynamicPunch, and that hasn't changed in XY UU. Thanks to DynamicPunch's high power and guaranteed confusion chance, Machamp can both heavily damage and annoy opponents not immune to it. Machamp also has great coverage moves to back it up, including Stone Edge, Knock Off, and Ice Punch, all coming off of a high 130 Attack stat. This makes Machamp quite hard to switch into, and it also has decent bulk to take some hits. Machamp commonly runs either an Assault Vest, which lets it take special attacks well and fire strong attacks, or Substitute, which lets it fire DynamicPunches more easily. While Machamp may face competition from some other Fighting-types, namely Heracross and Mienshao, its qualities make it a fearsome threat to face; underestimate it at your own peril.
I'll take Mismagius and Galvantula. Also, Scrafty probably deserves a spot on this threatlist, no I am not advocating it simply because I like it, but it's a pretty decent Assault Vest user with great coverage, and also a nice boosting sweeper with either Bulk Up or Dragon Dance; its abilities and bulk help it a lot in these roles. It's also pretty firmly in UU right now, something to consider.
Every suggested Pokemon has been added. This is up-to-date except for two entries I'd like to address soon.
Mowtom Ditto is most often a revenge killer, true, However, the way it works is very vague. Basically, Ditto can do anything that the opponent can do, but faster. Taking the opponents advantages is what I'd consider supportive. Ditto's role isn't relegated to offense either.
Mowtom Ditto is most often a revenge killer, true, However, the way it works is very vague. Basically, Ditto can do anything that the opponent can do, but faster. Taking the opponents advantages is what I'd consider supportive. Ditto's role isn't relegated to offense either.
Reserving Yanmega
Awesome! Then I'll reserve Exploud & M-Banette.
Offensive
Exploud
Type: Normal
Base Stats: 104 HP / 91 Atk / 63 Def / 91 SpA / 73 SpD / 68 Spe
Ability: Soundproof / Scrappy
Languishing at the depths of NU last gen, you’d be forgiven for wondering why Exploud appears on this list. But the Loud Noise Pokemon was given something that means it can make itself heard this time; Boomburst. An incredible 140 Base Power move with 100% accuracy and no downside that Exploud gets STAB from is nothing to take lightly, especially considering it’s Hidden Ability, Scrappy, means that it won’t be walled by Ghost-types that would normally switch into it. Choice Specs boosts it’s power to incredible levels, turning it into an impressive wallbreaker, and even resisted hits will make a big dent in an opponent. Thanks to the new mechanics this gen, being a sound-based move, it even hits opponents behind a Substitute, so almost nothing can stop it from dealing big damage. Exploud also has very good coverage, hitting the Steel and Rock-types that resist Boomburst with Surf, Focus Blast, and Fire Blast amongst other moves. Thanks to it’s impressive base 104 HP stat, it can take a neutral hit well, but it really shines under Trick Room, with a low enough Speed stat for it to cause havoc to the opposing team. While it might not be a top tier threat, Exploud’s raw power should not be scoffed at anymore.
Supportive
Mega Banette
Type: Ghost
Base Stats: 64 HP / 165 Atk / 75 Def / 93 SpA / 83 SpD / 75 Spe
Ability: Prankster
Mega Banette was blessed with one of the best abilities in the game in Prankster this gen. Priority on all non-attacking moves is an incredibly useful ability to have, but what separates Mega Banette from all other Pranksters is access to Destiny Bond. This means that any threat to your team out on the field can be eliminated by Mega Banette by simply sacrificing itself for the greater good, and because it has priority on Destiny Bond coupled with a slow Speed stat, it can leave it’s effects active for two turns, scaring the opponent into attacking even more. But it’s access to a plethora of useful status moves means it isn’t just useful for taking something down with it. It can inflict opponents with most forms of status, cripple Choiced opponents with Disable or Torment, soak up status with Substitute, and Taunt walls and other Pranksters amongst other things. It also has an astronomical base 165 Attack stat, meaning it can also maintain an offensive presence. Access to Knock Off gives it just more utility, but it also has priority attacks like Shadow Sneak and Sucker Punch, so it can guarantee the first hit in most situations regardless if it’s attacking or supporting. Priority Destiny Bond is what you’ll be using Mega Banette for, but it’s abundance of supporting moves means you can cater it’s set to what your team needs, and it will almost always put in a shift for your team.
Exploud
Type: Normal
Base Stats: 104 HP / 91 Atk / 63 Def / 91 SpA / 73 SpD / 68 Spe
Ability: Soundproof / Scrappy
Languishing at the depths of NU last gen, you’d be forgiven for wondering why Exploud appears on this list. But the Loud Noise Pokemon was given something that means it can make itself heard this time; Boomburst. An incredible 140 Base Power move with 100% accuracy and no downside that Exploud gets STAB from is nothing to take lightly, especially considering it’s Hidden Ability, Scrappy, means that it won’t be walled by Ghost-types that would normally switch into it. Choice Specs boosts it’s power to incredible levels, turning it into an impressive wallbreaker, and even resisted hits will make a big dent in an opponent. Thanks to the new mechanics this gen, being a sound-based move, it even hits opponents behind a Substitute, so almost nothing can stop it from dealing big damage. Exploud also has very good coverage, hitting the Steel and Rock-types that resist Boomburst with Surf, Focus Blast, and Fire Blast amongst other moves. Thanks to it’s impressive base 104 HP stat, it can take a neutral hit well, but it really shines under Trick Room, with a low enough Speed stat for it to cause havoc to the opposing team. While it might not be a top tier threat, Exploud’s raw power should not be scoffed at anymore.
Supportive
Mega Banette
Type: Ghost
Base Stats: 64 HP / 165 Atk / 75 Def / 93 SpA / 83 SpD / 75 Spe
Ability: Prankster
Mega Banette was blessed with one of the best abilities in the game in Prankster this gen. Priority on all non-attacking moves is an incredibly useful ability to have, but what separates Mega Banette from all other Pranksters is access to Destiny Bond. This means that any threat to your team out on the field can be eliminated by Mega Banette by simply sacrificing itself for the greater good, and because it has priority on Destiny Bond coupled with a slow Speed stat, it can leave it’s effects active for two turns, scaring the opponent into attacking even more. But it’s access to a plethora of useful status moves means it isn’t just useful for taking something down with it. It can inflict opponents with most forms of status, cripple Choiced opponents with Disable or Torment, soak up status with Substitute, and Taunt walls and other Pranksters amongst other things. It also has an astronomical base 165 Attack stat, meaning it can also maintain an offensive presence. Access to Knock Off gives it just more utility, but it also has priority attacks like Shadow Sneak and Sucker Punch, so it can guarantee the first hit in most situations regardless if it’s attacking or supporting. Priority Destiny Bond is what you’ll be using Mega Banette for, but it’s abundance of supporting moves means you can cater it’s set to what your team needs, and it will almost always put in a shift for your team.
Heracross
Type: Bug / Fighting
Base Stats: 80 HP / 125 Atk / 75 Def / 40 SpA / 95 SpD / 85 Spe
Ability: Swarm / Guts / Moxie
With a high 125 attack stat, two great 120 base power STAB moves and two great offensive abilities in Guts and Moxie, Heracross is one of the biggest offensive threats in UU. It has good coverage options in Knock Off and Stone Edge. With Swords Dance, it can boost its attack even further without worrying about getting burnt due to Guts. Speaking of which, it can hold Toxic / Flame Orb in conjunction with Swords Dance to get a Guts boost along with a +2 in attack. This set is an incredible wallbreaker and even Florges, the premier Heracross switchin is OHKOed with Facade after the boosts. With a Choice Scarf and Moxie it becomes a very good revenge killer and late game cleaner due to its decent speed, good coverage and high BP moves. Underestimate Heracross and it will sweep your team within a blink of eye.
Vivillon
Type: Bug / Flying
Base Stats: 80 HP / 52 Atk / 50 Def / 90 SpA / 50 SpD / 89 Spe
Ability: Shield Dust / Compound Eyes / Friend Guard
When people laid eyes on Vivillon for the first time, many assumed that it would go the same way as its fellow early-game Bug type brethren; forever condemned to the depths of NU. However, in spite of this early-game ubiquity, Vivillon can be a truly terrifying presence and unleash a literal "butterfly effect" on teams unprepared for it. A particularly notable trait of this Pokémon is its Compound Eyes ability, fixing the accuracy issues that two of its key moves, Hurricane and Sleep Powder, would normally suffer from. Using Sleep Powder to incapacitate the foe, Vivillon can then proceed to set up with Quiver Dance, allowing to it to outspeed all relevant threats and strike hard with boosted STAB Hurricane or Bug Buzz. In addition, after accumulating several boosts, Vivillon is even capable of badly denting especially bulky Pokémon such as Florges. It is safe to say that Vivillon shouldn't be misjudged on account of being an early-game Bug type, for it has all the tools it needs to prove a threatening offensive presence in UU.
Jellicent
Type: Water / Ghost
Base Stats: 100 HP / 60 Atk / 70 Def / 85 SpA / 105 SpD / 60 Spe
Ability: Water Absorb / Cursed Body / Damp
The first thing one will notice about Jellicent is the glorious moustache sported by the males of the species, but said facial hair isn't Jellicent's only notable feature. First off, take note of Jellicent's typing - Water/Ghost makes for some useful resistances and immunities that let Jellicent serve as a check to several relevant threats such as Darmanitan and Machamp. In addition, being part Ghost means that Jellicent is a solid choice as a spinblocker, given its decent bulk. Jellicent has the right set of tools for a bulky role too - Access to the coveted reliable recovery in Recover is a boon to any defensively-inclined Pokémon. Plus, having means of shutting down opposing walls with Taunt and a way to neuter physically offensive threats with Will-O-Wisp is always very advantageous, as is access to STAB Scald. Jellicent can also effectively utilise Toxic in the place of Will-O-Wisp should need be, and proceed to repeatedly use Recover as the foe is gradually worn down. Finally, Jellicent's unique combination of stats, moves and typing enable it to effectively take on the role as a physically defensive Pokémon or a specially defensive Pokémon, depending on the needs of the team. Overall, Jellicent is a premier defensive threat in the UU tier, capable of messing with many other threatening Pokémon, and thus should not be taken lightly to any extent.
Reserving Suicune (Offensive) and Suicune (Defensive).
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Suicune
Type: Water
Base Stats: 100 HP / 75 Atk / 115 Def / 90 SpA / 115 SpD / 85 Spe
Ability: Pressure / Water Absorb (Unreleased)
Upon looking at Suicune's stat spread, it might be assumed that it is solely a wall, but take a close look and you will find several key traits that enable Suicune to pose an offensive threat. First and foremost is Suicune's excellent bulk and a defensive typing that grants it only two weaknesses and several useful resistances. This means that Suicune often has an easy time being able to set up Calm Mind, and after a single boost, Suicune's potential damage output becomes a rather threatening prospect - Not many Pokémon are going to want to switch into its boosted attacks. Using a Water STAB of choice in conjunction with Ice Beam and Hidden Power Electric, Suicune achieves perfect neutral coverage (sans versus Shedinja and Lanturn, which are not of particular relevance), allowing Suicune's user to rest safe in the knowledge that Suicune will not be walled cold in the same way that other Pokémon will. Suicune's bulk is what makes it so successful at pulling off an offensive role, and hence why Suicune is a dangerous bulky sweeper who can be tough to take down if it is given the chance to set up.
Suicune
Type: Water
Base Stats: 100 HP / 75 Atk / 115 Def / 90 SpA / 115 SpD / 85 Spe
Ability: Pressure / Water Absorb (Unreleased)
Suicune is renowned for its mighty bulk and longevity, particularly its flagship set, known as CroCune. This set, dreaded by so many is back with a vengeance this Generation, since sleep mechanics have reverted to their Generation 4 state (The sleep counter does not reset upon switching). Suicune can use its tremendous bulk to set up Calm Minds, and when necessary, can restore all its health and shrug off any status it might have accumulated via use of Rest. For the duration of its turns asleep, Suicune can use Sleep Talk, allowing it to boost its Special Attack and Special Defense further, or attack the foe with a boosted STAB Scald. Scald's secondary effect comes in very handy, as it helps prevent physically offensive threats from getting past Suicune too. A combination of natural bulk and decent defensive typing, aided by Special Defense Boosts and possible burns make Suicune a Pokémon that is truly hard to break after setup. Make sure that you have sufficient measures to get around this Pokémon, for Suicune truly lives up to its reputation as a legendary beast.
Reserving Durant (Offensive) and Gourgeist-XL (Defensive).
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Durant
Type: Bug / Steel
Base Stats: 58 HP / 109 Atk / 122 Def / 48 Spa / 109 Spe
Ability: Hustle / Truant
Durant is, in a nutshell, a powerhouse. Base 109 Attack coupled with Hustle is not laughing matter, and Durant's base 109 Speed means that it outspeeds the majority of the metagame unboosted. This little bug is fortunate to have been blessed with Hone Claws, allowing it to alleviate the accuracy issues that Hustle presents. Durant's Steel typing is useful, providing it with some key resistances that allow it the opportunity to set up and start to sweep. Alternatively, Durant can forego the boosting route and hit hard straight off the bat with a Choice Band. With various coverage moves in its arsenal, Durant has the moves to deal with pretty much any Pokémon that comes its way. Do not let size deceive, for this little iron insect can prove a legitimately threatening presence given its unique traits.
Gourgeist-XL
Type: Ghost / Grass
Base Stats: 85 HP / 100 Atk / 122 Def / 58 SpA / 75 SpD / 54 Spe
Ability: Pickup / Frisk / Insomnia
When looking at Gourgeist-XL's stats, the first thing you'll notice is its massive Defense. Combine that with access to Will-O-Wisp, and the foe is going to find it tough to inflict a great deal of damage from the physical side. Gourgeist-XL's Ghost/Grass typing is nice, granting it useful resistances and immunities. Gourgeist-XL also benefits greatly from access to Leech Seed, which lets it gradually wear the foe down while passively regaining health. This pumpkin isn't total Taunt bait though, as it can use a reasonably powerful STAB Seed Bomb to dispose of more frail Pokémon. Gourgeist-XL's unique traits give it a solid niche as a defensive threat that can stop many physical attackers cold, so one must prepare for it lest their physical attackers suffer.
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