OU Heracross

[Valmanway]

Added both of these.

 

[Jukain]

mention healing wish latias support somewhere which is very helpful for helping to break down defensive teams and opposing teams in general because this tends to be worn out quickly

mention a toxic orb guts normal set for this thing in oo it is completely and utterly evil to defensive teams of any kind messing up doublade with knock off or eq and crazy high-powered facade to fuck up gliscor/landorus-t. sounds stupid as fuck but it's annoying :\

specifically mention acroscor with 276 spe as an answer to this in c&c on its own, possibly alongside hp flying landorus-t if you want.

2/3

 

[trc]

jukain I already 2/3d

 

[Jukain]

missed that, Valmanway write this up.

 

[Valmanway]

missed that, Valmanway write this up.

Will do.

 

[Valmanway]

missed that, Valmanway write this up.

Added. So since I already had 2/3 (sorry for not adding it to title sooner btw, I was waiting for TRC's input), does your 2/3 post mean 3/3 now?

 

[LightningLuxray]

You can only get the third stamp when you write up the analysis, Valmanway, so he's withholding the stamp until you write it up.

 

[Valmanway]

Okay, so unless I need to expand on some things and/or need to write up the checks/counters section, I think this is completely written up now.

 

[Alfalfa]

I think you undermentioned Talonflame in this analysis. Heracross' team options should include more teammates that can switch into it, such as Rotom-W, Impish Tyranitar, teammates that patch up Heracross' Talonflame weakness.

 

[alexwolf]

Add an Assault Vest of CC / Megahorn / Knock Off / Stone Edge in OO. A faster Conkeldurr that can actually beat bulky Psychic-types.

 

[Valmanway]

I think you undermentioned Talonflame in this analysis. Heracross' team options should include more teammates that can switch into it, such as Rotom-W, Impish Tyranitar, teammates that patch up Heracross' Talonflame weakness.

Add an Assault Vest of CC / Megahorn / Knock Off / Stone Edge in OO. A faster Conkeldurr that can actually beat bulky Psychic-types.

Did both of these.

 

[Berry Juice]

**Offensive Flying-types**: Flying-types such as Talonflame, Staraptor, and Mega Pinsir are a real pain for Mega Heracross to face, all of which are capable of outrunning and OHKOing Mega Heracross, but Rock Blast will mean that only Gliscor can directly switch into an unboosted Mega Heracross

Since Gliscor is mentioned separately, I think you could remove that part.

 

[Valmanway]

Since Gliscor is mentioned separately, I think you could remove that part.

Whoops, missed that somehow. Fixed.

 

[Valentine]

adamant is worth slashing on the SD 3 atk set, since you need that to OHKO stuff like skarm at +2

3/3

 

[Jetpack]

Hello here's an amcheck, and some things i noted while going through it.

amcheck

Mega Heracross is one of the bdeadliest wallbreakers available in OU, thanks to its massive base 185 Attack stat allowing it to plow through many defensive Pokemon when given the chance, such as Heatran, Ferrothorn, Slowbro, and Jirachi. Mega Heracross is also a big threat to offensive teams, since his respectable bulk and 5five resistances usually allow it to live a hit and retaliate hard, though it isn't un. It is also common for Mega Heracross to come in and force switches either. Not even Pokemon with Substitute are safe, as Skill Link turns normally underwhelming moves such as Pin Missile, Rock Blast, and Bullet Seed into potent weapons that can't be completely blocked with Substitute. However, Mega Heracross has weaknesses to Psychic-, Fire-, Fairy-, and Flying-type moves, the latter three being common offensive types, and combined with its mediocre base 75 Speed after Mega Evolving, it can actually be fairly easy to force it out. Much like most physical attackers, Mega Heracross is vulnerable to all forms of status, especially burns, and having no form of recovery means that Mega Heracross can't take advantage of its great bulk. Even with its flaws, Mega Heracross is a name feared by defensive Pokemon, and can easily dismantle a wall if given the chance.

Wall Breaker
########
name: Wall Breaker
move 1: Close Combat
move 2: Pin Missile
move 3: Rock Blast
move 4: Swords Dance / Substitute
ability: Moxie / Guts
item: Heracronite
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
nature: Jolly

Moves
========

Close Combat is Mega Heracross' most spammable STAB attack, as it has high power and decent coverage. Pin Missile is the strongest attack that Mega Heracross has to offer, not only breaking through Substitutes, but also threatening Slowbro and Mew. Rock Blast is the advised coverage move of choice, as it can nail Flying- and Fire-types quite nicely. The choice between Swords Dance and Substitute depends on whether you want to break through walls more easily or block status and punish predicted switches more easily, respectively.

Set Details
========

252 Attack EVs maximizes damage output, whilst 252 Speed EVs with a Jolly Nature allow Mega Heracross to outrun Mega Tyranitar and speed-tie with Smeargle, and t. The rest of the EVs go to HP for some extra bulk. Moxie can give Heracross a boost in power before Mega Evolving, and is usually used when lacking Swords Dance, while Guts can be used in case if Heracross gets burnt before Mega Evolving, so it can actually hit slightly harder when burnt.

Usage Tips
========

Mega Heracross should come in when the opponent attempts to heal their wall, giving Mega Heracross a safe switch, as well as a free turn after, to wallbreak or set up a Substitute. Since Mega Evolutions don't trigger Knock Off's effect, Mega Heracross makes for a great switch-in to Knock Off.

Team Options
========

Mega Heracross enjoys having a cleric on the team, since, between being vulnerable to every status and lacking any form of recovery, it can be workn down fairly easily. Sylveon or Clefable help keep Mega Heracross healthy with Wish and Heal Bell to restore health and remove status conditions, respectively, with the former. Sylveon having better overall bulk, and the latterClefable taking on stall teams more effectively. Paralysis support is very convenient, as Mega Heracross can easily KO crippled sweepers that are on the frail side, with. Thundurus being a great candidate with his Prankster Thunder Wave, and he also threatens both physical walls and sweepers, and. Mega Heracross in return breaks special walls for Thundurus, thus creating solid synergy. Healing Wish Latias can patch up Mega Heracross if it gets worn down with damage and/or a status condition, and can also threaten faster foes and physical walls. Having an answer to Talonflame is important, and Rotom-W is able to take a hit relatively easily and either 2HKO bulky variants andor OHKO offensive variants with Hydro Pump or. You can also predict a switch and provide a free switch for Mega Heracross with Volt Switch.

Swords Dance + Substitute
########
name: Swords Dance + Substitute
move 1: Close Combat
move 2: Rock Blast
move 3: Swords Dance
move 4: Substitute
ability: Moxie / Guts
item: Heracronite
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
nature: Jolly

Moves
========

Close Combat is the go-to move for Mega Heracross, being his best STAB attack of choice. Rock Blast is the obligatory secondary offensive move, as Rock Blast has better coverage, and you can afford to give up Pin Missile. Swords Dance raises the Attack of Mega Heracross to frightening levels, and makes wallbreaking significantly easier. Substitute gives Mega Heracross protection from status moves, and also works as a good move to use when you predict the opponent will switches out.

Set Details
========

252 Attack EVs maximizes damage output, whilst 252 Speed EVs letswith a Jolly Nature allow Mega Heracross to outrun Mega Tyranitar and speed -tie with Smeargle and outrun everything sl. The rest of the EVs go to HP for some extra bulk. Moxie can give Heracross a boost in power than itbefore Mega Evolving, and the rest of the EVs go to HP is usually used when lacking Swords Dance, while Guts can be used in case if Heracross gets burnt before Mega Evolving, some extra it can actually hit slightly harder when bulkrnt.

Usage Tips
========

Don't set up a Substitute or Swords Dance without thinking about it first; Swords Dance is usually the better move to use when they attempt to heal off any damage taken, while Substitute is the better move to use when you predict either a status move or a switch. Knock Off stays at 65 BP when used on Mega Heracross, even before Mega Evolving, so Mega Heracross makes for a good Knock Off absorberswitch in.

Team Options
========

Sylveon and Clefable can patch up Mega Heracross with Wish and/or Heal Bell if you made a mistake with your opponent. Thundurus is a great partner, thanks to Prankster Thunder Wave crippling faster foes. Latios and Latias make great partalso have nice synersgy, thanks to their ability to tempt Ferrothorn into switching into them, as well as threatening sweepers and physical walls. Landorus-T can keep Flying-types in check, and U-turn can potentially provide Mega Heracross with a safe switch-in, against Pokemon such as against Ferrothorn and Rotom-W. Bisharp can trap Latios and Latias with Pursuit or OHKO them with Sucker Punch, and can also 2HKO Clefable with Iron Head. Rotom-W is a great teammate that can threaten physical walls decently enough and can take on Talonflame reliably.

Other Options
########

Knock Off can be used in the 4th moveslot to remove Eviolite and Leftovers from walls, but the low power after removing an item compared to his other options can turn people away, and lacking Rock Blast will leave you more open to Flying- and Fairy-types. Bullet Seed is an option worth considering, as it allows Mega Heracross to handle Azumarill, Rotom-W, Hippowdon, and Quagsire much more effectively, but it has little use elsewhere. An Adamant nature can be used to better handle Unaware Clefable, Skarmory, Hippowdon, and Mandibuzz, but an Adamant nature should only be used if your team doesn't already have a way to deal with them. Assault Vest Heracross with a set of Close Combat / Megahorn / Stone Edge / Knock Off with Guts can work, since it functions as a great check to Keldeo, Slowbro, and Will-O-Wisp users. However, but the lack of power without Mega Evolving and during the timewhen Guts isn't activated leaves a lot of power to be desired. Megahorn can be used over Pin Missile if you want to potentially abuse Guts more efficiently, but it has less accuracy, less PP, and you lose out on a STAB attack that's capable of breaking through Substitutes. Running a Toxic Orb with Guts can allow Heracross to pull off a surprise wallbreaking set, but gets worn down very easily and requires more support than the other set.

Checks & Counters
########

**Azumarill**: Azumarill works as a good check, thanks to its bulk and typing letting it avoid an OHKO from any attack and being able to OHKO with Play Rough, but must be wary of the rare Bullet Seed.

**Unaware Clefable**: If Mega Heracross isn't using an Adamant nature, then Unaware Clefable can avoid a 2HKO from any attack and 2HKO with Moonblast.

**Offensive Flying-types**: Flying-types such as Talonflame, Staraptor, and Mega Pinsir are a real pain for Mega Heracross to face, all of which are capable of outrunning and OHKOing Mega Heracross, but Rock Blast will mean that only Gliscor can directly switch into an unboosted Mega Heracross.

**Doublade**: Doublade avoids a 2HKO from all of Mega Heracross' moves, even the rare Earthquake, and can wear Mega Heracross down with Gyro Ball or finish it off with Shadow Sneak.

**Will-O-Wisp**: After Mega Evolving, Mega Heracross is very vulnerable to burns, and Pokemon such as Mew, Mega Gardevoir, Gengar, and Victini are capable of outrunning and burning with Will-O-Wisp, but. Although Heracross does carry Guts often, so Will-O-Wisp should only be used after it Mega Evolves or confirming that its ability isn't Guts.

**Acrobatics Gliscor**: Acrobatics Gliscor can switch into any attack thrown its way, can outrun Mega Heracross with 200 Speed EVs and a neutral nature or 100 Speed EVs with a Jolly nature, and can OHKO, even with an item on.

finished

Mega Heracross is one of the deadliest wallbreakers available in OU, thanks to its massive base 185 Attack stat allowing it to plow through many defensive such as Heatran, Ferrothorn, Slowbro, and Jirachi. Mega Heracross is also a threat to offensive teams, since his respectable bulk and five resistances usually allow it to live a hit and retaliate hard. It is also common for Mega Heracross to come in and force switches. Not even Pokemon with Substitute are safe, as Skill Link turns normally underwhelming moves such as Pin Missile, Rock Blast, and Bullet Seed into potent weapons that can't be completely blocked with Substitute. However, Mega Heracross has weaknesses to Psychic-, Fire-, Fairy-, and Flying-type moves, the latter three being common offensive types, and combined with its mediocre base 75 Speed after Mega Evolving, it can be fairly easy to force it out. Much like most physical attackers, Mega Heracross is vulnerable to all forms of status, especially burns, and having no form of recovery means that Mega Heracross can't take advantage of its great bulk. Even with its flaws, Mega Heracross is a name feared by defensive Pokemon, and can easily dismantle a wall if given the chance.

Wall Breaker
########
name: Wall Breaker
move 1: Close Combat
move 2: Pin Missile
move 3: Rock Blast
move 4: Swords Dance / Substitute
ability: Moxie / Guts
item: Heracronite
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
nature: Jolly

Moves
========

Close Combat is Mega Heracross' most spammable STAB attack, as it has high power and decent coverage. Pin Missile is the strongest attack that Mega Heracross has to offer, not only breaking through Substitutes, but also threatening Slowbro and Mew. Rock Blast is the advised coverage move of choice, as it can nail Flying- and Fire-types quite nicely. The choice between Swords Dance and Substitute depends on whether you want to break through walls more easily or block status and punish predicted switches, respectively.

Set Details
========

252 Attack EVs maximizes damage output, whilst 252 Speed EVs with a Jolly Nature allow Mega Heracross to outrun Mega Tyranitar and speed-tie with Smeargle. The rest of the EVs go to HP for some extra bulk. Moxie can give Heracross a boost in power before Mega Evolving, and is usually used when lacking Swords Dance, while Guts can be used in case if Heracross gets burnt before Mega Evolving, so it can actually hit slightly harder when burnt.

Usage Tips
========

Mega Heracross should come in when the opponent attempts to heal their wall, giving Mega Heracross a safe switch, as well as a free turn to wallbreak or set up a Substitute. Since Mega Evolutions don't trigger Knock Off's effect, Mega Heracross makes for a great switch-in to Knock Off.

Team Options
========

Mega Heracross enjoys having a cleric on the team since, between being vulnerable to every status and lacking any form of recovery, it can be worn down fairly easily. Sylveon or Clefable help keep Mega Heracross healthy with Wish and Heal Bell to restore health and remove status conditions. Sylveon having better overall bulk, and Clefable taking on stall teams more effectively. Paralysis support is very convenient, as Mega Heracross can easily KO crippled sweepers that are on the frail side. Thundurus being a great candidate with his Prankster Thunder Wave, and he also threatens both physical walls and sweepers. Mega Heracross in return breaks special walls for Thundurus, thus creating solid synergy. Healing Wish Latias can patch up Mega Heracross if it gets worn down with damage and/or a status condition, and can also threaten faster foes and physical walls. Having an answer to Talonflame is important, and Rotom-W is able to take a hit relatively easily and either 2HKO bulky variants or OHKO offensive variants with Hydro Pump. You can also predict a switch and provide a free switch for Mega Heracross with Volt Switch.

Swords Dance + Substitute
########
name: Swords Dance + Substitute
move 1: Close Combat
move 2: Rock Blast
move 3: Swords Dance
move 4: Substitute
ability: Moxie / Guts
item: Heracronite
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
nature: Jolly

Moves
========

Close Combat is the go-to move for Mega Heracross, being his best STAB attack of choice. Rock Blast is the obligatory secondary offensive move, as Rock Blast has better coverage, and you can afford to give up Pin Missile. Swords Dance raises the Attack of Mega Heracross to frightening levels, and makes wallbreaking significantly easier. Substitute gives Mega Heracross protection from status moves, and also works as a good move to use when you predict the opponent will switch out.

Set Details
========

252 Attack EVs maximizes damage output, whilst 252 Speed EVs with a Jolly Nature allow Mega Heracross to outrun Mega Tyranitar and speed-tie with Smeargle. The rest of the EVs go to HP for some extra bulk. Moxie can give Heracross a boost in power before Mega Evolving, and is usually used when lacking Swords Dance, while Guts can be used in case if Heracross gets burnt before Mega Evolving, so it can actually hit slightly harder when burnt.

Usage Tips
========

Don't set up a Substitute or Swords Dance without thinking about it first; Swords Dance is usually the better move to use when they attempt to heal off any damage taken, while Substitute is the better move to use when you predict either a status move or a switch. Knock Off stays at 65 BP when used on Mega Heracross, even before Mega Evolving, so Mega Heracross makes for a good Knock Off switch in.

Team Options
========

Sylveon and Clefable can patch up Mega Heracross with Wish and/or Heal Bell if you made a mistake with your opponent. Thundurus is a great partner, thanks to Prankster Thunder Wave crippling faster foes. Latios and Latias also have nice synergy, thanks to their ability to tempt Ferrothorn into switching into them, as well as threatening sweepers and physical walls. Landorus-T can keep Flying-types in check, and U-turn can potentially provide Mega Heracross with a safe switch-in, against Pokemon such as against Ferrothorn and Rotom-W. Bisharp can trap Latios and Latias with Pursuit or OHKO them with Sucker Punch, and can also 2HKO Clefable with Iron Head. Rotom-W is a great teammate that can threaten physical walls decently enough and can take on Talonflame reliably.

Other Options
########

Knock Off can be used in the 4th moveslot to remove Eviolite and Leftovers from walls, but the low power after removing an item compared to his other options can turn people away, and lacking Rock Blast will leave you more open to Flying- and Fairy-types. Bullet Seed is an option worth considering, as it allows Mega Heracross to handle Azumarill, Rotom-W, Hippowdon, and Quagsire much more effectively, but it has little use elsewhere. An Adamant nature can be used to better handle Clefable, Skarmory, Hippowdon, and Mandibuzz, but an Adamant nature should only be used if your team doesn't already have a way to deal with them. Assault Vest Heracross with a set of Close Combat / Megahorn / Stone Edge / Knock Off with Guts can work, since it functions as a great check to Keldeo, Slowbro, and Will-O-Wisp users. However, the lack of power without Mega Evolving and when Guts isn't activated leaves a lot of power to be desired. Megahorn can be used over Pin Missile if you want to potentially abuse Guts more efficiently, but it has less accuracy, less PP, and you lose out on a STAB attack that's capable of breaking through Substitutes. Running a Toxic Orb with Guts can allow Heracross to pull off a surprise wallbreaking set, but gets worn down very easily and requires more support than the other set.

Checks & Counters
########

**Azumarill**: Azumarill works as a good check, thanks to its bulk and typing letting it avoid an OHKO from any attack and being able to OHKO with Play Rough, but must be wary of the rare Bullet Seed.

**Unaware Clefable**: If Mega Heracross isn't using an Adamant nature, then Unaware Clefable can avoid a 2HKO from any attack and 2HKO with Moonblast.

**Offensive Flying-types**: Flying-types such as Talonflame, Staraptor, and Mega Pinsir are a real pain for Mega Heracross to face, all of which are capable of outrunning and OHKOing Mega Heracross.

**Doublade**: Doublade avoids a 2HKO from all of Mega Heracross' moves, even the rare Earthquake, and can wear Mega Heracross down with Gyro Ball or finish it off with Shadow Sneak.

**Will-O-Wisp**: After Mega Evolving, Mega Heracross is very vulnerable to burns, and Pokemon such as Mew, Mega Gardevoir, Gengar, and Victini are capable of outrunning and burning with Will-O-Wisp. Although Heracross does carry Guts often, so Will-O-Wisp should only be used after it Mega Evolves or confirming that its ability isn't Guts.

**Acrobatics Gliscor**: Acrobatics Gliscor can switch into any attack thrown its way, can outrun Mega Heracross with 200 Speed EVs and a neutral nature or 100 Speed EVs with a Jolly nature, and can OHKO.

Close Combat is Mega Heracross' most spammable STAB attack, as it has high power and decent coverage.

I have to disagree. When i use that Mega Heracross set i usually find myself spamming Pin Missile. The defense drops also take away from his bulk.

Heracross gets burnt before Mega Evolving, so it can actually hit slightly harder when burnt.

Here you should mention how that if you chose to run guts for this situation, you'll lose Skill Link.

**Doublade**: Doublade avoids a 2HKO from all of Mega Heracross' moves, even the rare Earthquake, and can wear Mega Heracross down with Gyro Ball or finish it off with Shadow Sneak.

Lastly, i feel like you should mention here that Doublade can come in and force a switch and use that free turn to Swords Dance. Other than that this was very well written, good job.

 

[AccidentalGreed]

4 HP EVs in HP have negligible consequence in terms of "extra bulk," so you can just remove mentions of those to make the set comments shorter and less extraneous.

 

[Lumari]

remove
add (Capitalize)
(comments)

base forme is cute af

Overview
########

Mega Heracross is one of the deadliest wallbreakers available in OU, thanks to its massive base 185 Attack stat allowing it to plow through many defensive threats such as Heatran, Ferrothorn, Slowbro, and Jirachi. Mega Heracross is also a threat to offensive teams, since his as its (causal since is unexpectedly tricky to use properly so it's best to just stick with 'because' or 'as) respectable bulk and five resistances usually allow it to live a hit and retaliate hard. It is also common for Mega Heracross to come in and force switches. Not even Pokemon with Substitute are safe, as Skill Link turns normally underwhelming moves such as Pin Missile, Rock Blast, and Bullet Seed into potent weapons that can't be completely blocked with Substitute. However, Mega Heracross has weaknesses to Psychic-, Fire-, Fairy-, and Flying-type moves, the latter three being several common offensive types; (SC) and combined with its mediocre base 75 Speed after Mega Evolving, it this can be leave it fairly easy to force it out. Much like most physical attackers, Mega Heracross is vulnerable to all forms of status, especially burns, and having no form of its lack of recovery means that Mega Heracross can't take advantage of its great bulk. Even with its flaws, Mega Heracross is a name feared by defensive Pokemon, and can easily dismantle a wall if given the chance. (no contentless closures please)

Wall Breaker Wallbreaker
########
name: Wall Breaker Wallbreaker
move 1: Close Combat
move 2: Pin Missile
move 3: Rock Blast
move 4: Swords Dance / Substitute
ability: Moxie / Guts
item: Heracronite
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
nature: Jolly

Moves
========

Close Combat is Mega Heracross's most spammable STAB attack, as it has high power and decent coverage. Pin Missile is the strongest attack that Mega Heracross has to offer, not only breaking through Substitutes, but also threatening Slowbro and Mew. Rock Blast is the advised coverage move of choice, as it can nail Flying- and Fire-types quite nicely. The choice between Swords Dance and Substitute depends on whether you want to break through walls more easily or block status and punish predicted switches, respectively.

Set Details
========

252 Attack EVs maximizes damage output, whilst 252 Speed EVs with a Jolly Nature allow Mega Heracross to outrun Mega Tyranitar and speed-tie Speed tie with Smeargle. Moxie can give Heracross a boost in power before Mega Evolving, (RC) and is usually used when lacking Swords Dance. (SC) while Alternatively, (uncomfortably long sentence) Guts can be used useful in case if Heracross gets burnt burned (I'd rather follow the game's spelling for the status ailment) before Mega Evolving, so it can actually hit slightly harder when burnt burned; though however, you Heracross can't use Pin Missile and Rock Blast as effectively without Skill Link.

Usage Tips
========

Mega Heracross should come in on a free switch when the opponent attempts to heal their wall, giving Mega Heracross a safe switch, as well as which also gives it a free turn to wallbreak or set up a Substitute. (please make sure I haven't butchered the content here; the way it was worded it seemed to imply that the free switch and the free turn to wallbreak or w/e are given on the same turn, which can't be right. if you end up rewording it, don't be afraid to make the latter part into a separate sentence) Since Because Mega Evolutions don't trigger Knock Off's effect power isn't boosted when used on a Mega Evolution, Mega Heracross makes for a great switch-in to Knock Off.

Team Options
========

Mega Heracross enjoys having a cleric on the team since because, between being vulnerable to every status and lacking any form of recovery, it can be worn down fairly easily due to its vulnerability to status and lack of recovery. Sylveon or Clefable help keep Mega Heracross healthy with Wish and Heal Bell to restore health and remove status conditions; (SC) Sylveon having has better overall bulk, and while Clefable taking takes on stall teams more effectively. Paralysis support is very convenient, as Mega Heracross can easily KO crippled frail sweepers that are on the frail side after they have been crippled. Thundurus being is a great candidate with his Prankster Thunder Wave, and he it also threatens both physical walls and sweepers. Mega Heracross in return breaks special walls for Thundurus, thus creating solid synergy. Healing Wish Latias can patch up fully heal Mega Heracross if it gets worn down with damage and/or a status condition, and can while also threatening faster foes and physical walls. Having an answer to Talonflame is important; (SC) and Rotom-W is able to take a hit relatively easily and either 2HKO bulky variants or OHKO offensive variants with Hydro Pump. You can also predict a switch and provide a free switch for Mega Heracross with Volt Switch.

Swords Dance + Substitute
########
name: Swords Dance + Substitute
move 1: Close Combat
move 2: Rock Blast
move 3: Swords Dance
move 4: Substitute
ability: Moxie / Guts
item: Heracronite
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
nature: Jolly

Moves
========

Close Combat is the go-to move for Mega Heracross's, (RC) being his best STAB attack of choice. Rock Blast is the obligatory secondary offensive move, as Rock Blast it has better coverage than Pin Missile, and which you can afford to give up Pin Missile. Swords Dance raises the Attack of Mega Heracross to frightening levels, (RC) and makes wallbreaking significantly easier. Substitute gives Mega Heracross protection from status moves, (RC) and also works as a good move to use is a good option when you predict the opponent will switch out.

Set Details
========

252 Attack EVs maximizes damage output, whilst 252 Speed EVs with a Jolly Nature allow Mega Heracross to outrun Mega Tyranitar and speed-tie Speed tie with Smeargle. Moxie can give Heracross a boost in power before Mega Evolving, (RC) and is usually used when lacking Swords Dance. (period) while Alternatively, Guts can be used useful in case if Heracross gets burnt burned before Mega Evolving, so it can actually hit slightly harder when burnt burned.

Usage Tips
========

Don't set up a Substitute or Swords Dance without thinking about it first; Swords Dance is usually the better move to use when they Mega Heracross's foes attempt to heal off any damage taken, while Substitute is the better move to use when you predict either a status move or a switch. Knock Off stays at 65 BP doesn't get the power boost when used on Mega Heracross, even before Mega Evolving, so Mega Heracross makes making for it a good Knock Off switch-in (add hyphen).

Team Options
========

Sylveon and Clefable can patch up Mega Heracross with Wish and/or Heal Bell if you made a mistake with your opponent. Thundurus is a great partner, thanks to Prankster Thunder Wave crippling faster foes. Latios and Latias also have nice synergy with Mega Heracross, thanks to their ability to tempt lure in Ferrothorn into switching into them, as well as threatening sweepers and physical walls. Landorus-T can keep Flying-types in check, (RC) and use U-turn can potentially to provide Mega Heracross with a safe switch-in, (RC) against Pokemon such as against Ferrothorn and Rotom-W. Bisharp can trap Latios and Latias with Pursuit or OHKO them with Sucker Punch, and it can also 2HKO Clefable with Iron Head. Rotom-W is a great teammate that can threaten physical walls decently enough and can take on Talonflame reliably.

Other Options
########

Knock Off can be used in the 4th fourth (spell out numbers under 20 in written text) moveslot to remove Eviolite and Leftovers from walls, but the low power it is relatively weak after removing an item compared to his other options can turn people away; (SC) and lacking additionally, it's incompatible with Rock Blast, which will leave you Mega Heracross more open to Flying- and Fairy-types. Bullet Seed is an option worth considering, as it allows Mega Heracross to handle Azumarill, Rotom-W, Hippowdon, and Quagsire much more effectively; (SC) but however, it has little use elsewhere. An Adamant nature can be used to better handle Clefable, Skarmory, Hippowdon, and Mandibuzz, but an Adamant nature this should only be used if your team doesn't already have a way to deal with them. Assault Vest Heracross with a set of Close Combat / Megahorn / Stone Edge / Knock Off with Guts can work, since it functions as a great check to Keldeo, Slowbro, and Will-O-Wisp users. However, the lack of power without Mega Evolving and or when Guts isn't activated a Guts boost leaves a lot of power to be desired. Megahorn can be used over Pin Missile if you want to potentially abuse Guts more efficiently, but it has less accuracy, less PP, and causes you Heracross to (subject consistency) lose out on a STAB attack that's capable of breaking through Substitutes. Running a Toxic Orb (isn't Flame Orb better?) with Guts can allow Heracross to pull off a surprise wallbreaking set, but it gets worn down very easily and requires more support than the other sets.

Checks & Counters
########

**Azumarill**: Azumarill works as a good check, thanks to its bulk and typing letting it avoid an OHKO from any attack and being able to OHKO with Play Rough, but it must be wary of the rare Bullet Seed.

**Unaware Clefable**: If Mega Heracross isn't using an Adamant nature, then (this kind of coordinating is very useful in spoken text but is redundant and should be avoided in written text) Unaware Clefable can avoid a 2HKO from any attack and 2HKO with Moonblast.

**Offensive Flying-types**: Flying-types such as Talonflame, Staraptor, and Mega Pinsir are a real pain for Mega Heracross to face, as all of which them are capable of outrunning and OHKOing Mega Heracross.

**Doublade**: Doublade avoids a 2HKO from all of Mega Heracross' moves, even the rare Earthquake, and can wear Mega Heracross down with Gyro Ball, finish it off with Shadow Sneak, or set up a Swords Dance as Mega Heracross switches out.

**Will-O-Wisp**: After Mega Evolving, Mega Heracross is very vulnerable to burns, and Pokemon such as Mew, Mega Gardevoir, Gengar, and Victini are capable of outrunning and burning it with Will-O-Wisp. Although However, Heracross does carry Guts often, so Will-O-Wisp should only be used after it Mega Evolves or after confirming that its ability isn't Guts.

**Acrobatics Gliscor**: Acrobatics Gliscor can switch into any attack thrown its way, can outrun Mega Heracross with 200 Speed EVs and a neutral nature or 100 Speed EVs with a Jolly nature, and can proceed to OHKO.

that amcheck didn't count because it was an amcheck. however, this is GP 1/2 for real.

 

[Jukain]

i was gonna check this but you confused me by not implementing the dutch plumberjack's check and putting 1/2, please implement that right away so we can get this done Valmanway

 

[Valmanway]

Sorry about that. I'm almost done with that.

 

[Valmanway]

Sorry about the mix-up, Jukain , but this is ready now.

 

[Jukain]

Valmanway

diff

Overview
########

Mega Heracross is one of the deadliest wallbreakers available in OU, thanks to its massive base 185 Attack stat allowing it to plow through many defensive threats. Mega Heracross is also a threat to offensive teams, as its respectable bulk and five resistances usually allow it to live at least one hit and retaliate hard. It is also common, for Mega Heracross to come ing mand forcey switches. Not even Pokemon with Substitute are safe, as Skill Link turns normally underwhelming moves such as Pin Missile, Rock Blast, and Bullet Seed into potent weapons that can't be blocked with Substitute. However,Not all is perfect for Mega Heracross, though, as it has weaknesses to several common offensive types; this combined with its mediocre base 75 Speed after Mega Evolving, this can leave it fairly easy to force out. Much like most physical attackers, Mega Heracross is vulnerable to all forms of status, especially burns, and its lack of recovery means that Mega Heracross can't take advantage of its great bulk, despite its decent bulk, can be worn out quickly.

Wallbreaker
########
name: Wallbreaker
move 1: Close Combat
move 2: Pin Missile
move 3: Rock Blast
move 4: Swords Dance / Substitute
ability: Moxie / Guts
item: Heracronite
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
nature: Jolly

Moves
========

Close Combat is Mega Heracross's most spammable STAB attack, as it has high power and decent coverage. Pin Missile is the strongest attack that Mega Heracross has to offer, not only breaking through Substitutes, but also threatening Slowbro and Mew. Rock Blast is the advised coverage move, as it can nail Flying- and Fire-types. The choice between Swords Dance and Substitute depends on whether you want to break through walls more easily or block status and punish predicted switches, respectively.

Set Details
========

252Full investment in Attack EVs maximize damage output, whilst 252and Speed EVs with a Jolly Nnature allowmaximize Mega Heracross's damage output and allow it to outrun Mega Tyranitar possibly mention a few more things here eg jolly breloom/bisharp, jolly mamoswine on the evo turn, adamant gyara/dnite/diggersby and Speed tie with Smeargle. Moxie can give Heracross a boost in power before Mega Evolving and, which is usuespecially usedrelevant when lacking Swords Dance. Alternatively, Guts can be useful in case Heracross gets burned before Mega Evolving, so it can actually hit slightis isn't completely harder when burneduseless; however, Heracross can't use Pin Missile and Rock Blast as effectively without Skill Link, rendering it rather ineffective.

Usage Tips
========

Mega Heracross should come in when the opponent attempts to heal their wall, giving Mega Heracross a free switch. After that, the wall will likely be forced to switch out, potentially giving it another free turn to land a powerful blow or set up with Swords Dance or Substitute. Because Knock Off's power isn'its item cannot boosted when use removed on a Mega Evolutionand it resists the move, Mega Heracross makes for a great switch-in to Knock Off.

Team Options
========

Mega Heracross enjoys having a cleric on the team because it can beis worn down fairly easily due to its vulnerability to status and lack of recovery. Sylveon or Clefable can help keep Mega Heracross healthy with Wish and Heal Bell; Sylveon has better overall bulk, while Clefable takes on stall teams more effectively possibly mention something about unaware and greater physical bulk because clefable is far better than sylveon in ou lol but you don't make it sound like that. Paralysis support is very convenient, as Mega Heracross can easily KO frail sweepers after they have been crippled. Thundurus is a great candidate with Prankster Thunder Wave, and he also threatens both physical walls and sweepers. what makes thundurus a good paralysis spreader? it's frail and doesn't get many switch-in opportunities. wouldn't something like jirachi be more appropriate? Mega Heracross in return helps breaks down special walls for Thundurus, thus creating solid synergy. Healing Wish Latias can fully heal Mega Heracross if it gets worn down, while also threatening faster foes and physical walls. Having an answer to Talonflame is important; Rotom-W is able to take a hit relatively easily and either 2HKO bulky variants or OHKO offensive variants with Hydro Pump. You can also predict a switch and provide a free switch-in for Mega Heracross with Volt Switch.

Swords Dance + Substitute
########
name: Swords Dance + Substitute
move 1: Close Combat
move 2: Rock Blast
move 3: Swords Dance
move 4: Substitute
ability: Moxie / Guts
item: Heracronite
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
nature: Jolly

Moves
========

Close Combat is Mega Heracross's best STAB attack, havboasting both high power and good coverage. Rock Blast is the obligatory secondary offensive move, as it has better coverage than Pin Missile, which you can afford to give up. Swords Dance raises the Attack of Mega Heracross to frightening levels and makes wallbreaking significantly easier. Substitute gives Mega Heracross protection from status moves and also itakes a good option when you predict the opponent willdvantage of forced switch outes.

Set Details
========

252 Attack EVs maximize damage output, whilst 252Full investment in Attack and Speed EVs with a Jolly Nnature allowmaximize Mega Heracross's damage output and allow it to outrun Mega Tyranitar and Speed tie with Smeargle. again possibly mention a few more things here eg jolly breloom/bisharp, jolly mamoswine on the evo turn, adamant gyara/dnite/diggersby Moxie can give Heracross a boost in power before Mega Evolving and can potentially save you a turn spent setting up with Swords Dance. Alternatively, Guts can be useful in case Heracross gets burned before Mega Evolving, so it can actually hit slightly harder when burned\; just remember that Rock Blast won't be as reliable before Mega Evolving.

Usage Tips
========

Don't set up a Substitute or Swords Dance without thinking about it first; Swords Dance is usually the better move to use when they attempt to heal off any damage taken, while Substitute is the better move to use when you predict either a status move or a switch. Knock Off stays at 65 BP when used on Mega Heracross, even before Mega Evolving, so Mega Heracross makes for a good Knock Off switch in.

Team Options
========

Sylveon and Clefable can patch ukeep Mega Heracross healthy with Wish and Heal Bell. Thundurus is a great partner, thanks to Prankster Thunder Wave crippling faster foes. Latios and Latias also have nice synergy with Mega Heracross, thanks to their ability to lure in Ferrothorn, as well asnd threatening various answers to it, including fast sweepers and physical walls. Landorus-T can keep Flying-types in check and use U-turn to provide Mega Heracross with a safe switch-in against Pokemon such as Ferrothorn and Rotom-W. Bisharp can trap Latios and Latias with Pursuit or OHKO them with Sucker Punch, and it can also 2HKOeasily eliminate Clefable with Iron Head. Rotom-W is a great teammate that can threaten physical walls decently enough and can take on Talonflame reliably.

Other Options
########

Knock Off can be used in the fourth moveslot to remove Eviolite and Leftovers from walls, but it is relatively weak after removing an item; additionally, it's incompatible with Rock Blast, which will leave Mega Heracross more open to Flying- and Fairy-types. Bullet Seed is an option worth considering, as it allows Mega Heracross to handle Azumarill, Rotom-W, Hippowdon, and Quagsire much more effectively; however, it has little use elsewhere. An Adamant nature can be used to better handle Clefable, Skarmory, Hippowdon, and Mandibuzz, but this should only be used if your team doesn't already have a way to deal with them. Assault Vest Heracross with a set of Close Combat / Megahorn / Stone Edge / Knock Off with Guts can function as a great check to Keldeo, Slowbro, and Will-O-Wisp users. However, the lack of power without Mega Evolving or a Guts boost isn't activated leaves a lot to be desired. Megahorn can be used over Pin Missile if you want to potentially abuse Guts more efficiently, but it has less accuracy, less PP, and would leave Rock Blast as the only move to break through Substitutes. Running a Flame Orb with Guts can allow Heracross to pull off a surprise wallbreaking set, but gets worn down very easily and requires more support than the other sets.

Checks & Counters
########

**Azumarill**: Azumarill works as a good check, thanks to its bulk and typing letting it avoid an OHKO from any attack and being able to OHKO with Play Rough, but it must be wary of the rare Bullet Seed.

**Unaware Clefable**: If Mega Heracross isn't using an Adamant nature, Unaware Clefable can avoid a 2HKO from any attack and 2HKO with Moonblast.

**Offensive Flying-types**: Flying-types such as Talonflame, Staraptor, and Mega Pinsir are a real pain for Mega Heracross to face, as all of them are capable of outrunning and OHKOing Mega Heracross.

**Doublade**: Doublade avoids a 2HKO from all of Mega Heracross's moves, even the rare Earthquake, and can wear Mega Heracross downhurt it significantly with Gyro Ball, finish it off with Shadow Sneak, or set up a Swords Dance as Mega Heracross scripple it witches out.h a Toxic. you're misunderstanding doublade's role a bit here

**Will-O-Wisp**: After Mega Evolving, Mega Heracross is very vulnerable to burns, and. Pokemon such as Mew, Mega Gardevoir, Gengar, and Victini are capable of outrunning and burning it with Will-O-Wisp. However, Heracross does carry Guts often, so Will-O-Wisp should only be used after it Mega Evolves or after confirming that its ability isn't Guts. isn't it a better option with the likes of mega gardevoir and victini to straight up attack it?

**Acrobatics Gliscor**: Acrobatics Gliscor can switch into any attack thrown its way, outrun Mega Heracross with 200 Speed EVs and a neutral nature or 100 Speed EVs with a Jolly nature, and proceed to OHKO. it actually doesn't quite ohko unless its orb is knocked off, make note of this

gp 2/2

 

[Valmanway]

Okay, I think this is ready for upload now.

 

[trc]

I went to upload this, but I need to talk to Jukain to address some stuff on IRC when he wakes up, so please, no one upload this before then.

 

[Jukain]

Both me and TRC have held off on uploading this for the reason that the analysis simply isn't that good. While it would be pretty simple to beef up the quality a bit in the uploading process, the issue here is that the original analysis, despite being written for an Aegislash metagame, is in many regards better than this one. What I've done is incorporated information from this and changed around the original analysis to account for this update. There is a lot of useful content in the original analysis that isn't present here and is still relevant, so that content was left, but almost all of the additional content from this analysis was included; the efforts here definitely weren't in vain. Moving this now that all of this is taken care of.