Resource Don't Use That, Use This (V2)

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20% of all Zangoose are using Night Slash just... why

Don't use:

Zangoose @ Toxic Orb
Ability: Toxic Boost
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
Adamant / Jolly Nature
- Facade
- Night Slash
- Quick Attack / Swords Dance
- Close Combat

Night Slash is, in a nutshell, outclassed as a Dark-type coverage move on Zangoose. While a Dark-type move provides good coverage to hit Ghost-types, there is one thing that keeps this move from being a staple Dark-type move. Doublade runs rampant all over RU, and it holds Eviolite to soften Zangoose's blows. Is there a way to put some more hurt on Doublade? Yes there is.

Use this instead:

Zangoose @ Toxic Orb
Ability: Toxic Boost
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
Adamant / Jolly Nature
- Facade
- Knock Off
- Quick Attack / Swords Dance
- Close Combat

While Knock Off has less power than Night Slash, the utility it offers is worth the minor loss in power. Knock Off is also more powerful than Night Slash before the item is removed, meaning that Doublade has to think twice before switching in if it wants to retain its Eviolite. With Doublade's Eviolite being knocked off, Zangoose and its teammates will have a much easier time breaking through it (this also applies to AV users and pretty much every NFE)
 
[22:47] <%Magnemite> !usage exploud moves
[22:47] <+TIBot> Boomburst 99.534% | Ice Beam 60.342% | Fire Blast 49.803% | Surf 48.691% | Focus Blast 44.368% | Flamethrower 33.088% | Overheat 15.486% | Extrasensory 15.210% | Shadow Ball 13.798% | Other 19.678%
[22:47] <%Magnemite> >Ice Beam 60.342%
[22:47] <%Magnemite> k posting about this

Don't use this:


Exploud @ Choice Specs
Ability: Soundproof
EVs: 252 SAtk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
Modest Nature
- Boomburst
- Ice Beam
- Fire Blast
- Focus Blast

Why it's bad:
There is no point in running Ice Beam on Exploud. Boomburst already OHKOes Gligar after rocks, and even if it didn't, what sane person is leaving their healthy Gligar in on an Exploud? Despite the fact that Boomburst is what Exploud will be using most of the time, all of the moves in the set below are at least situationally useful, something you can't say at all about Ice Beam. Also, Soundproof on Exploud is really dumb because you lose the ability to spam Boomburst (read: the reason to use this mon at all) against Ghost-types, and you also lose the ability to OHKO Doublade without locking yourself into Fire Blast and making yourself Rhyperior / mola bait.

Instead, use this:


Exploud @ Choice Specs
Ability: Scrappy
EVs: 252 SAtk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
Modest Nature
- Boomburst
- Surf
- Fire Blast
- Focus Blast

Why it's better:
Surf OHKOes Rhyperior (yes even the good (SpD) spreads) 100% of the time, which none of Exploud's other moves even come close to doing (unlike with Gligar). As for the other moves you might have been using Ice Beam over, Fire Blast is obvious as it OHKOes Doublade and hits other Steels, and Focus Blast also OHKOes Doublade but keeps you from being locked into Fire Blast afterwards.
 
Last edited:

aVocado

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Hi

Don't Use This:

Clawitzer @ Life Orb
Ability: Mega Launcher
EVs: 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
Modest Nature
- Water Pulse
- Dragon Pulse
- Ice Beam
- Aura Sphere

Why It's Bad:
03:36 Arikado !usage clawitzer moves
03:36 TIBot_ Dark Pulse 96.611% | Aura Sphere 93.785% | Water Pulse 88.891% | Ice Beam 58.083% | Dragon Pulse 34.706% | Scald 8.301% | Other 19.624%

Clawitzer is by no means bad. It's an excellent Pokemon that is very strong in the RU metagame. But the move choices on this particular moveset of Clawitzer are bad. First of all, why use Dragon Pulse? It has no real value, it's boosted by Mega Launcher, yes, but you literally only hit 1 relevant Pokemon in the tier which is Druddigon.. which is already hit hard by Ice Beam. So, you shouldn't really have Dragon Pulse, and replacing it with another move such as Dark Pulse which is a much better option that allows it to hit Slowking and Meloetta super effectively. Secondly, there is the issue with Water Pulse. Water Pulse is a strong STAB that's boosted by Mega Launcher, but Scald is a better option simply because the 30% burn chance can help so much.

Instead, Use This:

Clawitzer @ Life Orb
Ability: Mega Launcher
EVs: 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
Modest Nature
- Scald
- Dark Pulse
- Ice Beam
- Aura Sphere / U-turn

Why It's Better:
This set has much better coverage than the one with Dragon Pulse and hits a lot more targets and is harder to switch into in general. Dark Pulse hits Slowking and Meloetta, while Scald has that nice burn rate that can cripple switch-ins such as Virizion or again, Slowking. U-turn gives momentum so it's nice.
 

Mew2

Sex is overrated
is a Tiering Contributor Alumnus
Hi

Don't Use This:

Clawitzer @ Life Orb
Ability: Mega Launcher
EVs: 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
Modest Nature
- Water Pulse
- Dragon Pulse
- Ice Beam
- Aura Sphere

Why It's Bad:
03:36 Arikado !usage clawitzer moves
03:36 TIBot_ Dark Pulse 96.611% | Aura Sphere 93.785% | Water Pulse 88.891% | Ice Beam 58.083% | Dragon Pulse 34.706% | Scald 8.301% | Other 19.624%

Clawitzer is by no means bad. It's an excellent Pokemon that is very strong in the RU metagame. But the move choices on this particular moveset of Druddigon are bad. First of all, why use Dragon Pulse? It has no real value, it's boosted by Mega Launcher, yes, but you literally only hit 1 relevant Pokemon in the tier which is Druddigon.. which is already hit hard by Ice Beam. So, you shouldn't really have Dragon Pulse, and replacing it with another move such as Dark Pulse which is a much better option that allows it to hit Slowking and Meloetta super effectively. Secondly, there is the issue with Water Pulse. Water Pulse is a strong STAB that's boosted by Mega Launcher, but Scald is a better option simply because the 30% burn chance can help so much.

Instead, Use This:

Clawitzer @ Life Orb
Ability: Mega Launcher
EVs: 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
Modest Nature
- Scald
- Dark Pulse
- Ice Beam
- Aura Sphere / U-turn

Why It's Better:
This set has much better coverage than the one with Dragon Pulse and hits a lot more targets and is harder to switch into in general. Dark Pulse hits Slowking and Meloetta, while Scald has that nice burn rate that can cripple switch-ins such as Virizion or again, Slowking. U-turn gives momentum so it's nice.
I agree with the Dragon Pulse switch but why Water Pulse? Sure the 30% chance to burn is nice but Water Pulse has more power and you have an additional 30% chance to confuse your opponent. I'm not saying Water Pulse > Scald but I think both are equally viable options.
 

EonX

Battle Soul
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Scald's 30% burn chance is guaranteed to make it easier for Clawitzer and its teammates to switch-in vs. physical attackers, whereas Water Pulse's confusion only has a 50% chance of working when the affect happens. (Among other things)
 

ScraftyIsTheBest

On to new Horizons!
is a Top Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Media Contributor Alumnus
Yeah, agreeing with EonX. Also, keep in mind that even though Water Pulse is stronger, the power difference between Scald and Water Pulse is negligible. Not to mention, as said, the burn chance is much more lasting, and residual damage is nice too. Water Pulse's confusion chance does not have as much effect on the battle, and can be nullified by a switch (although Clawitzer can definitely punish the switch).
 
I agree with the Dragon Pulse switch but why Water Pulse? Sure the 30% chance to burn is nice but Water Pulse has more power and you have an additional 30% chance to confuse your opponent. I'm not saying Water Pulse > Scald but I think both are equally viable options.
And, while Water Pulse has a slightly better chance of 2hkoing Aromatisse, Scald's Burn chance increases the likelyhood of Scald Burning a lot
 

Mew2

Sex is overrated
is a Tiering Contributor Alumnus
I guess you're all right, maybe it's my horrible luck against Water Pulse confusion that makes me believe that Water Pulse is as viable as Scald or maybe that I never see Scald in Clawitzer.
 
Why do the worst Assault Vest users always appear in RU?

Don't use this:

Gallade (M) @ Assault Vest
Ability: Justified
EVs: 212 HP / 252 Atk / 44 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Drain Punch
- Psycho Cut
- Knock Off
- Close Combat / Ice Punch
Why it's bad:
Let me get this out of the way now: Gallade is not a bad Pokemon in RU. He has the movepool to run an all-out offensive set, and decent special bulk, so it may be tempting to run Assault Vest on him. However, it's not that good, because Gallade's physical bulk is awful without heavy investment and/or Bulk Up, both of which are absent on this set. Close Combat is a bad move for Assault Vest users in general; it not only cancels out the Special Defense boost gained from Assault Vest, but also makes Gallade's already bad physical bulk even worse. He's also not as powerful as he wants to be, because he can't use Swords Dance or the aforementioned Bulk Up. To be honest, I don't know why this set is on the strategy dex in the first place.

Instead, use this:

Gallade (M) @ Leftovers
Ability: Justified
EVs: 252 HP / 212 SpD / 44 Spe
Careful Nature
- Bulk Up
- Substitute
- Drain Punch
- Knock Off

Why it's better:
Gallade's stat spread and movepool are more inclined for Bulk Up anyway. Though some setup is required, he has better bulk and power overall. Fun fact: After a single Bulk Up, he can live an unboosted Shadow Claw from Doublade and still set up a Substitute, assuming full HP, while outdamaging the Assault Vest set. His special bulk is lower, but not by enough to be a huge problem. It's also not completely screwed over by the rampant Knock Offs (yeah, Justified, but still), as Drain Punch can alleviate the loss of Leftovers should it happen.

Or, use this:

Gallade (M) @ Choice Band
Ability: Justified
EVs: 212 HP / 252 Atk / 44 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Close Combat
- Psycho Cut
- Knock Off
- Ice Punch

Why it's better:
If you want to run 4 attacks on Gallade that badly, Choice Band is the way to go. This set has much better power than Assault Vest could ever dream of. While he's not bulky, he's supposed to be a wallbreaker with this set, so not having as much bulk is not a major issue.
 

aVocado

@ Everstone
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Don't Use This:

Dugtrio @ Focus Sash
Ability: Arena Trap
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Stealth Rock
- Reversal
- Earthquake
- Stone Edge

Why It's Bad:
23:04 TIBot Focus Sash 65.961% | Choice Band 25.820% | Life Orb 4.671% | Other 3.548%
23:04 TIBot Earthquake 99.240% | Stone Edge 72.507% | Sucker Punch 72.306% | Stealth Rock 42.579% | Reversal 32.133% | Aerial Ace 21.515% | Memento 19.225% | Rock Slide 11.160% | Hone Claws 6.705% | Protect 5.207% | Other 17.423%

There is one reason to use Dugtrio: Arena Trap. Not Stealth Rock, not Sash + Reversal, but Arena Trap. Dugtrio's ability allows it to trap some threats like Delphox, Registeel, Cobalion, and literally anything that lacks priority that kills Dugtrio or has been weakened to the point where an Earthquake will finish it off. Sash Dugtrio is weak initially, and Stealth Rock on it is bad because it's not a consistent user of the move like other users of the move such as Registeel, Cobalion, Druddigon, or Rhyperior. Sash Reversal might sound good especially because its stronger than Earthquake even after STAB if at 1 HP, but it's not worth it cuz like I said, it's weak initially. Additionally, it can pretty much only set up SR once in the game, and dies to entry hazards if it wants to switch in again.

Instead, Use This:


Dugtrio @ Choice Band / Life Orb
Ability: Arena Trap
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Earthquake
- Stone Edge
- Sucker Punch
- Aerial Ace / Memento / toxic

Why It's Better:
With Choice Band (or even LO), Dugtrio is a lot stronger (although not strong enough..) and able to trap things a lot better, doing more damage in general with a boosting item. Earthquake takes out a slightly weakened Cobalion and 2HKOs Registeel, as well as taking out Delphox, and as previously stated, takes down anything that has been weakened enough. This set also utilizes Arena Trap the best, being able to trap things and doing as much damage as possible. Stone Edge hits targets like Moltres etc., Sucker Punch is good priority, Aerial Ace is strictly for Virizion as an x2 aerial ace is still weaker than a STAB Earthquake, while Memento can be used with Life Orb to sacrifice itself after doing its job and giving a teammate a set up opportunity. Toxic is to poison some walls after you have taken something out, but should only be used with life orb for obvious reasons.

-OR these if you want stealth rock users for offensive teams-
 
Last edited:

Punchshroom

FISHIOUS REND MEGA SHARPEDO
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Why do the worst Assault Vest users always appear in RU?

Don't use this:

Gallade (M) @ Assault Vest
Ability: Justified
EVs: 212 HP / 252 Atk / 44 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Drain Punch
- Psycho Cut
- Knock Off
- Close Combat / Ice Punch
Why it's bad:
Let me get this out of the way now: Gallade is not a bad Pokemon in RU. He has the movepool to run an all-out offensive set, and decent special bulk, so it may be tempting to run Assault Vest on him. However, it's not that good, because Gallade's physical bulk is awful without heavy investment and/or Bulk Up, both of which are absent on this set. Close Combat is a bad move for Assault Vest users in general; it not only cancels out the Special Defense boost gained from Assault Vest, but also makes Gallade's already bad physical bulk even worse. He's also not as powerful as he wants to be, because he can't use Swords Dance or the aforementioned Bulk Up. To be honest, I don't know why this set is on the strategy dex in the first place.
You could always make a case for it in the analysis page, but I don't doubt the opinions of QC members who have indeed approved this set (granted, it's the least recommended of the viable sets). In any case, bad physical bulk and reliance on Close Combat are not reasons why AV Gallade isn't spectacular (see: NU Hariyama, which needs Close Combat even more than Gallade but makes a fine AV user in its tier); it's the fact that Gallade's other sets are a bit more specialised, while AV Gallade is more of a blend between those sets. Even then, I'm not sure if I would call it "bad".
 
Don't Use This:

Dugtrio @ Focus Sash
Ability: Arena Trap
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Stealth Rock
- Reversal
- Earthquake
- Stone Edge

Why It's Bad:
23:04 TIBot Focus Sash 65.961% | Choice Band 25.820% | Life Orb 4.671% | Other 3.548%
23:04 TIBot Earthquake 99.240% | Stone Edge 72.507% | Sucker Punch 72.306% | Stealth Rock 42.579% | Reversal 32.133% | Aerial Ace 21.515% | Memento 19.225% | Rock Slide 11.160% | Hone Claws 6.705% | Protect 5.207% | Other 17.423%

There is one reason to use Dugtrio: Arena Trap. Not Stealth Rock, not Sash + Reversal, but Arena Trap. Dugtrio's ability allows it to trap some threats like Delphox, Registeel, Cobalion, and literally anything that lacks priority that kills Dugtrio or has been weakened to the point where an Earthquake will finish it off. Sash Dugtrio is weak initially, and Stealth Rock on it is bad because it's not a consistent user of the move like other users of the move such as Registeel, Cobalion, Druddigon, or Rhyperior. Sash Reversal might sound good especially because its stronger than Earthquake even after STAB if at 1 HP, but it's not worth it cuz like I said, it's weak initially. Additionally, it can pretty much only set up SR once in the game, and dies to entry hazards if it wants to switch in again.

Instead, Use This:


Dugtrio @ Choice Band / Life Orb
Ability: Arena Trap
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Earthquake
- Stone Edge
- Sucker Punch
- Aerial Ace / Memento / toxic

Why It's Better:
With Choice Band (or even LO), Dugtrio is a lot stronger (although not strong enough..) and able to trap things a lot better, doing more damage in general with a boosting item. Earthquake takes out a slightly weakened Cobalion and 2HKOs Registeel, as well as taking out Delphox, and as previously stated, takes down anything that has been weakened enough. This set also utilizes Arena Trap the best, being able to trap things and doing as much damage as possible. Stone Edge hits targets like Moltres etc., Sucker Punch is good priority, Aerial Ace is strictly for Virizion as an x2 aerial ace is still weaker than a STAB Earthquake, while Memento can be used with Life Orb to sacrifice itself after doing its job and giving a teammate a set up opportunity. Toxic is to poison some walls after you have taken something out, but should only be used with life orb for obvious reasons.

-OR these if you want stealth rock users for offensive teams-
While I agree on Reversal/endure/that shit in this tier because there is no Blissey or Chansey to trap I still think Stealth Rock is still an usable move on Dugtrio as it finds some opportunities to set them up if it can't trap something/is against a wall thanks to its very high speed, not bad enough to be there :(
 
While I agree on Reversal/endure/that shit in this tier because there is no Blissey or Chansey to trap I still think Stealth Rock is still an usable move on Dugtrio as it finds some opportunities to set them up if it can't trap something/is against a wall thanks to its very high speed, not bad enough to be there :(
I agree, Rocks is a fine move on Life Orb Duggy. After he 's trapped his main target, he usually isn't very important to the team anyways, so supporting with rocks is viable.
 

EonX

Battle Soul
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Why do the worst Assault Vest users always appear in RU?

Don't use this:

Gallade (M) @ Assault Vest
Ability: Justified
EVs: 212 HP / 252 Atk / 44 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Drain Punch
- Psycho Cut
- Knock Off
- Close Combat / Ice Punch
Why it's bad:
Let me get this out of the way now: Gallade is not a bad Pokemon in RU. He has the movepool to run an all-out offensive set, and decent special bulk, so it may be tempting to run Assault Vest on him. However, it's not that good, because Gallade's physical bulk is awful without heavy investment and/or Bulk Up, both of which are absent on this set. Close Combat is a bad move for Assault Vest users in general; it not only cancels out the Special Defense boost gained from Assault Vest, but also makes Gallade's already bad physical bulk even worse. He's also not as powerful as he wants to be, because he can't use Swords Dance or the aforementioned Bulk Up. To be honest, I don't know why this set is on the strategy dex in the first place.

Instead, use this:

Gallade (M) @ Leftovers
Ability: Justified
EVs: 252 HP / 212 SpD / 44 Spe
Careful Nature
- Bulk Up
- Substitute
- Drain Punch
- Knock Off

Why it's better:
Gallade's stat spread and movepool are more inclined for Bulk Up anyway. Though some setup is required, he has better bulk and power overall. Fun fact: After a single Bulk Up, he can live an unboosted Shadow Claw from Doublade and still set up a Substitute, assuming full HP, while outdamaging the Assault Vest set. His special bulk is lower, but not by enough to be a huge problem. It's also not completely screwed over by the rampant Knock Offs (yeah, Justified, but still), as Drain Punch can alleviate the loss of Leftovers should it happen.

Or, use this:

Gallade (M) @ Choice Band
Ability: Justified
EVs: 212 HP / 252 Atk / 44 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Close Combat
- Psycho Cut
- Knock Off
- Ice Punch

Why it's better:
If you want to run 4 attacks on Gallade that badly, Choice Band is the way to go. This set has much better power than Assault Vest could ever dream of. While he's not bulky, he's supposed to be a wallbreaker with this set, so not having as much bulk is not a major issue.
As someone who is very experienced with Gallade, it is one of the few legit users of AV in the tier. It lacks weaknesses to common Special Attack-based types, has a STAB recovery move in Drain Punch, and a very spammable coverage move in Knock Off that can even remove Life Orbs and Choice Specs to make Special Attackers weaker, thus helping Gallade tank their hits even better. Granted, I do feel Bulk Up is better overall, AV Gallade is the best option if you need a Fighting-type that can tank hits and still dish out some good damage. You should only be using Close Combat if you absolutely need a KO anyway (and it can be argued that Ice Punch is better for Gligar)
 
meh, while AV Gallade isn't bad per se, it's by far the most used set on the ladder. Since Bulk Up is generally better and where Gallade's biggest niche lies, an entry in this thread about AV Gallade is not too unwarranted, though it should probably state that AV Gallade isn't bad, but should only really be used for its specific niche and that Bulk Up is usually the set to run on Gallade.
 

aVocado

@ Everstone
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21:53 TIBot Psyshock 67.912% | Grass Knot 59.485% | Fire Blast 59.055% | Flamethrower 36.600% | Shadow Ball 34.561% | Calm Mind 33.782% | Psychic 29.688% | Switcheroo 23.689% | SolarBeam 12.692% | Will-O-Wisp 9.778% | Substitute 6.246% | Overheat 5.956% | Hidden Power Grass 2.960% | Other 17.596%


Don't Use This:


With any of the following moves: Shadow Ball, Overheat, Solar Beam (without sunny day or if not on a sunny day team), Hidden Power Grass

Why?: Because all of those moves are bad on Delphox. Shadow Ball only hits literally one target harder than any other move, and that is opposing Delphox. It's unneeded coverage and takes a precious slot from Delphox's moveset. Overheat isn't advised because two Fire Blasts in a row will do more damage than two Overheats in a row. It also makes Delphox kinda useless because of it being set up fodder/giving the opponent a free turn because at -2 or -4 SpA, you should definitely switch out. Hidden Power Grass is outclassed by Grass Knot which literally does more damage on all targets (except gastro and mola, hp grass and grass knot have same base power on gastrodon and alomomola) except Lanturn, which is better hit by Psyshock anyway.
 

Molk

Godlike Usmash
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bumping cause wynaut

Don't Use This:


Avalugg @ Leftovers
Ability: Sturdy
EVs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD
Impish Nature
- Rapid Spin
- Avalanche
- Roar
- Recover

Why It's Bad:

At first the ridiculous physical bulk, reliable recovery, and ability to phaze might look nice, but Avalugg is really a pretty terrible Pokemon that you should never consider using (i'd honestly use Claydol before this thing, and that's saying something). Every single positive trait Avalugg has is simply outweighed by a bad trait that prevents it from being useful, creating a quite unfortunate case if i'll be honest. Avalugg's physical bulk might be absolutely insane, but when you consider that Avalugg's typing (mono ice) is the absolute worst single defensive type in the game, all that gleam goes away. Pretty much every good physical attacker in RU has a way to smash Avalugg. Hitmonlee has High Jump Kick, Doublade has Iron Head+Swords Dance, Cobalion and Virizion get past it with a +2 CC after Stealth Rock, Escavalier and Durant have Iron Head, Druddigon can run Flamethrower, Sharpedo can go mixed: the list goes on and on. It's really hard to find a niche as a physical wall when pretty much every physical attacker out there hits you super effectively =/. As for Rapid Spinning, Avalugg's Ice-type gets in the way again, its weak to Stealth Rock, and vulnerable to all of the other entry hazards as well, something that's never good for a Rapid Spinner. On top of this, Doublade: the most common spinblocker in the tier is an iron wall to this thing, and there's absolutely no way the ice table is getting past it before the entry hazards being stacked up have done enough. If this thing was any type other than ice, it'd be good.

Instead, Use These:


Why they're better:

There are really so many options for bulky physical walls/Rapid Spin users in the RU tier to choose from, and i'm pretty sure at least one of them should fit your team better than Avalugg. Need a solid physical wall that can take hits from pretty much anything? Gligar, Tangrowth, and especially Alomomola have that down! Need a bulky hazard clearer? Gligar and Sandslash are your men! Need a phazer? Rhyperior will do the trick! There are plenty of other options to choose from as well. None of these Pokemon can do all of the roles Avalugg can play at the same time, but a Pokemon that can perform some of the roles effectively, but not all at once, is much better than a Pokemon that can perform all the roles in one set, but does not just one, but ALL OF THEM poorly. If you need all of these roles filled in one teamslot (phazing, spinning, physically bulky Pokemon), you might want to look at your team as whole before using Avalugg, there's probably another way to fix the team up without resorting to using it.
 
Last edited:

Molk

Godlike Usmash
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Oh by the way, just double posting to say that i've added a new twist to the thread. If you don't believe a Pokemon/Set posted here is truely bad, you can try to defend it, but remember to keep discussion civil!
 

aVocado

@ Everstone
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[22:47] <%Magnemite> !usage exploud moves
[22:47] <+TIBot> Boomburst 99.534% | Ice Beam 60.342% | Fire Blast 49.803% | Surf 48.691% | Focus Blast 44.368% | Flamethrower 33.088% | Overheat 15.486% | Extrasensory 15.210% | Shadow Ball 13.798% | Other 19.678%
[22:47] <%Magnemite> >Ice Beam 60.342%
[22:47] <%Magnemite> k posting about this

Don't use this:


Exploud @ Choice Specs
Ability: Soundproof
EVs: 252 SAtk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
Modest Nature
- Boomburst
- Ice Beam
- Fire Blast
- Focus Blast

Why it's bad:
There is no point in running Ice Beam on Exploud. Boomburst already OHKOes Gligar after rocks, and even if it didn't, what sane person is leaving their healthy Gligar in on an Exploud? Despite the fact that Boomburst is what Exploud will be using most of the time, all of the moves in the set below are at least situationally useful, something you can't say at all about Ice Beam. Also, Soundproof on Exploud is really dumb because you lose the ability to spam Boomburst (read: the reason to use this mon at all) against Ghost-types, and you also lose the ability to OHKO Doublade without locking yourself into Fire Blast and making yourself Rhyperior / mola bait.

Instead, use this:


Exploud @ Choice Specs
Ability: Scrappy
EVs: 252 SAtk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
Modest Nature
- Boomburst
- Surf
- Fire Blast
- Focus Blast

Why it's better:
Surf OHKOes Rhyperior (yes even the good (SpD) spreads) 100% of the time, which none of Exploud's other moves even come close to doing (unlike with Gligar). As for the other moves you might have been using Ice Beam over, Fire Blast is obvious as it OHKOes Doublade and hits other Steels, and Focus Blast also OHKOes Doublade but keeps you from being locked into Fire Blast afterwards.
I disagree with not using Ice Beam for one simple reason: it OHKOs Gligar. Something Boomburst can't do. I've been using Sticky Web for some days now, and because Shuckle doesn't exist in RU anymore and its so hard to get both Sticky Web and Stealth Rock on the field, the latter which is needed for Exploud to OHKO Gligar with Boomburst, I've found that OHKOing Gligar is crucial because allowing Gligar to Defog, even if it means killing Gligar in the process, basically means you lose all momentum in the game. This is usually done by going into Hitmonlee (or Druddigon which I also use on my sticky web team), and then doubling into Exploud on the Gligar switch and gaining momentum and the upper hand, preventing the opponent from removing Sticky Web.

252+ SpA Choice Specs Exploud Boomburst vs. 248 HP / 8 SpD Eviolite Gligar: 277-327 (83.1 - 98.1%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252+ SpA Choice Specs Exploud Ice Beam vs. 248 HP / 8 SpD Eviolite Gligar: 476-560 (142.9 - 168.1%) -- guaranteed OHKO

Focus Blast hits no relevant targets and Fire Blast can already hit the steel-types, and I don't think being locked into Focus Blast is something Exploud would enjoy anyway. Ice Beam should be used over Focus Blast and not Surf.

Here's a replay demonstrating what I'm talking about. Removing webs was crucial for my opponent and as she previously knew from experience, Boomburst never OHKOs Gligar and Ice Beam isn't as common, so getting the OHKO there was important.

I do agree on Soundproof however. That thing is dumb as fuck.
 

migzoo

new money
I disagree with not using Ice Beam for one simple reason: it OHKOs Gligar. Something Boomburst can't do. I've been using Sticky Web for some days now, and because Shuckle doesn't exist in RU anymore and its so hard to get both Sticky Web and Stealth Rock on the field, the latter which is needed for Exploud to OHKO Gligar with Boomburst, I've found that OHKOing Gligar is crucial because allowing Gligar to Defog, even if it means killing Gligar in the process, basically means you lose all momentum in the game. This is usually done by going into Hitmonlee (or Druddigon which I also use on my sticky web team), and then doubling into Exploud on the Gligar switch and gaining momentum and the upper hand, preventing the opponent from removing Sticky Web.

252+ SpA Choice Specs Exploud Boomburst vs. 248 HP / 8 SpD Eviolite Gligar: 277-327 (83.1 - 98.1%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252+ SpA Choice Specs Exploud Ice Beam vs. 248 HP / 8 SpD Eviolite Gligar: 476-560 (142.9 - 168.1%) -- guaranteed OHKO
If the only hazard your team has is Stealth Rock, however, it's probably not worth it to run Ice Beam. Gligar is usually OHKO'd by Boomburst after SR damage.
 
I disagree with not using Ice Beam for one simple reason: it OHKOs Gligar. Something Boomburst can't do. I've been using Sticky Web for some days now, and because Shuckle doesn't exist in RU anymore and its so hard to get both Sticky Web and Stealth Rock on the field, the latter which is needed for Exploud to OHKO Gligar with Boomburst, I've found that OHKOing Gligar is crucial because allowing Gligar to Defog, even if it means killing Gligar in the process, basically means you lose all momentum in the game. This is usually done by going into Hitmonlee (or Druddigon which I also use on my sticky web team), and then doubling into Exploud on the Gligar switch and gaining momentum and the upper hand, preventing the opponent from removing Sticky Web.

252+ SpA Choice Specs Exploud Boomburst vs. 248 HP / 8 SpD Eviolite Gligar: 277-327 (83.1 - 98.1%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252+ SpA Choice Specs Exploud Ice Beam vs. 248 HP / 8 SpD Eviolite Gligar: 476-560 (142.9 - 168.1%) -- guaranteed OHKO

Focus Blast hits no relevant targets and Fire Blast can already hit the steel-types, and I don't think being locked into Focus Blast is something Exploud would enjoy anyway. Ice Beam should be used over Focus Blast and not Surf.

Here's a replay demonstrating what I'm talking about. Removing webs was crucial for my opponent and as she previously knew from experience, Boomburst never OHKOs Gligar and Ice Beam isn't as common, so getting the OHKO there was important.

I do agree on Soundproof however. That thing is dumb as fuck.
Ice Beam does have a legitimate use on webs teams that can't always get sr up before Gligar comes in, but any other hazard-reliant team would have SR up in that situation, which would lead to Gligar being OHKOed. However, I highly doubt that the 60% of Exploud that use Ice Beam are all on web teams, which is basically the only time that it would even matter, and also basically the only time Gligar would ever stay in on Exploud. Focus Blast isn't that useful, but it does let you OHKO Doublade without being complete Alomomola and Rhyperior bait afterwards, unlike Fire Blast.
 

aVocado

@ Everstone
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Don't Use This:


Sharpedo @ Focus Sash
Ability: Speed Boost
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Crunch
- Waterfall
- Protect
- Destiny Bond
(or a completely special set with hydro pump/crunch/ice beam/protect and modest nature and SpA EVs)

Why It's Bad:
You look at Sharpedo, you see two things: monstrous ability and awesome offensive capabilities, and piss poor defenses to the point where I believe it is the frailest fully evolved Pokemon, but that doesn't matter. Focus Sash is an item that's usually used on suicide lead Pokemon such as Accelgor and Omastar, and not on offensive powerhouses such as Sharpedo. The entire point of using Sharpedo is to use it as a late-game sweeper with Speed Boost and its power, being able to reliably sweep against anything that doesn't have priority like Mach Punch or a strong STAB Quick Attack from Pokemon like Guts-boosted Swellow or Toxic Boosted Zangoose. Focus Sash isn't meant to be used on any frail Pokemon that can't live a strong hit.


Sharpedo @ Life Orb
Ability: Speed Boost
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Crunch
- Waterfall
- Destiny Bond / Earthquake / Zen Headbutt (/ Poison Jab)
- Protect
(or a completely special set with hydro pump/crunch/ice beam/protect and modest nature and SpA EVs)

Why It's Better:
Life Orb gives Sharpedo a much needed boost in power and allows it to do more damage in general. With this item it can reliably sweep late-game instead of living 1 more hit that you probably didn't need to be hit with in the first place if Sharpedo could actually KO the opposing Pokemon, which Life Orb allows it to do with its boost.
 

EonX

Battle Soul
is a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Social Media Contributor Alumnusis a Forum Moderator Alumnusis a Community Contributor Alumnusis a Tiering Contributor Alumnusis a Top Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Media Contributor Alumnus
!usage cobalion items
<TIBot> Leftovers 60.842% | Life Orb 11.358% | Lum Berry 6.026% | Air Balloon 4.056% | Choice Band 3.532% | Expert Belt 3.463% | Assault Vest 2.467% | Choice Scarf 2.417% | Focus Sash 1.885% | Other 3.954%

Don't Use This:


With any of the following items:
Air Balloon, Choice Band, Assault Vest, Choice Scarf, Focus Sash.

Why?: Cobalion is a great Pokemon in RU with solid versatility and the ability to hit physical or special. However, it relies heavily on its item for each respective set, and wasting that item slot on a pointless item can make Cobalion much less effective. Air Balloon sounds great, but you can just as easily use the move Magnet Rise to get past Gligar and Rhyperior while still setting up SD and having solid STAB coverage. Choice Band allows Cobalion to hit hard off the bat, but restricts it to a single move. For hitting hard, Cobalion can either use the Life Orb item or utilize Swords Dance to attempt a sweep (or both!) though LO does cut into Cobalion's bulk. I got nothing for Assault Vest. Whether you go physical or special, Cobalion will be forced to rely on a STAB that isn't exactly good for AV users. If physical, Close Combat's defense drops are counter productive while Sacred Sword is weak af. Focus Blast is... well, Focus Blast. It's gonna miss and you'll take lots of damage. Choice Scarf is a pretty subpar option on Cobalion considering its 90 / 90 Attacking stats. Volt Switch is cool and all, but Cobalion is really fast as it is and generally wants to support its team with its bulk in mind or attempt a sweep with SD or CM. Focus Sash is useless. Cobalion has the physical bulk and the typing to take multiple hits. If you're wanting to utilize Cobalion as a lead, use Support Cobalion with the Leftovers item. It's got a fast Taunt, Rocks, and Volt Switch to make it hard for opposing teams to deal with it while having more than enough physical bulk to tank hits without the need of a Sash (for reference, Sharpedo can't 2HKO with Waterfall and it fails to OHKO with Hydro Pump)
 

Mew2

Sex is overrated
is a Tiering Contributor Alumnus
Don't use this:

Ninjask @ Leftovers
Ability: Speed Boost
EVs: 252 HP / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
- Substitute
- Swords Dance
- Protect
- Baton Pass


Why it sucks:

Ninjask is one of the worst, if not the worst, Batton passer in RU because if his pitiful 61/45/50 bulk which offers some serious difficulties when you want to set up a SD. It also has one of the worst defensive typings been weak to Fire, Electric, Ice and x4 weak to Rock and obviously to Stealth Rocks which means that Ninjaks will act as a lead in most matches. It also has a huge weakness to Taunt making it a sitting duck and has literally zero offensive presence, in a competitive match Ninjaks will rarely batton pass something that isn't Speed.

Use this instead:


Combusken @ Eviolite
Ability: Speed Boost
EVs: 252 HP / 64 SpD / 192 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Baton Pass
- Bulk Up / Swords Dance
- Protect
- Flare Blitz

Why it's better:
Thanks to eviolite, Combusken is drastically bulkier than Ninjask, which allows him to set up multiple times during a match and several boosts, it can also use Bulk Up, which is a wonderful move for frailer things that love the defense boost and it has an overall better typing. Finally it has Flare Blitz, a strong 120 BP STAB move that makes Combusken not a complete set up bait.
 
Magnemite could you add a rule that states that any Pokemon that receives less 2% usage on the unweighted usage stats can't be discussed about? If no one is using mons like ninjask to begin with, then i don't that its necessary to tell newer players not to use them.
 
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