Taking over for this since Misaka Mikoto said awhile back she won't be doing this anymore. I've mentioned this way back, I'm just finally getting around to that now. Using the same base since it covers a lot of the major stuff, will get this to QC stage before the weekend is over.
[OVERVIEW]
Thundurus-T is a unique special attacker in Battle Spot Singles, capable of functioning as a more powerful wallbreaker and sweeper than its more common Incarnate Forme. However, this comes with a significant Speed drop that leaves it outsped by the likes of Garchomp, Latios, and Gengar, as well as losing the valuable utility of Prankster that makes Thundurus a huge threat. On the other hand, access to Volt Absorb instead allows it to function as one of the best Thundurus counters in the format, which is generally the primary reason to use Thundurus-T over Thundurus. Its Electric / Flying typing also grants it useful resistances to Fighting- and Flying-type moves as well as a Ground-type immunity, with only two weaknesses in Ice- and Rock-type moves. However, Thundurus-T's bulk isn't great, so it needs significant defensive investment in order to actually switch into stronger threats such as Mega Salamence and Choice Band Talonflame. Thundurus-T also has access to a wide range of coverage moves such as Psychic, Focus Blast, Hidden Power Ice, and Grass Knot, which allow it to check various threats in the format such as Mega Venusaur, Tyranitar, Dragonite, Ferrothorn, and Hydreigon. Access to Nasty Plot and Agility also allows Thundurus-T to capitalize on its wallbreaking capabilities and mitigate its drop in Speed to either break through bulkier teams or sweep against offensive teams.
[SET]
name: Nasty Plot
move 1: Nasty Plot
move 2: Thunderbolt
move 3: Hidden Power Ice
move 4: Focus Blast / Psychic / Grass Knot
item: Sitrus Berry / Life Orb
ability: Volt Absorb
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Nasty Plot allows Thundurus-T to function as a dedicated wallbreaker, allowing it to break through nearly any wall after a boost. Thunderbolt is Thundurus-T's primary STAB move, offering consistent power and great coverage. Hidden Power Ice hits Dragon-types such as Dragonite, Garchomp, and Mega Salamence as well as Ground-types such as Landorus-T and Hippowdon. Focus Blast is the ideal coverage move, since it allows Thundurus-T to hit Ferrothorn, Tyranitar, Mamoswine, and Hydreigon harder, as well as break through Porygon2 and Chansey after a Nasty Plot. Psychic is an option if Focus Blast's coverage is not needed, allowing Thundurus-T to hit Mega Venusaur and Mega Heracross harder. Grass Knot can also be used to hit bulky Ground-types that don't mind Hidden Power Ice, such as Swampert and Gastrodon, and also hits Tyranitar and Hippowdon.
Set Details
========
Maximum Special Attack and Speed investment allows Thundurus-T to hit as hard and fast as possible, while the leftover EVs are placed in Special Defense. A Timid nature is preferred because the power boost from Modest is unnecessary with Nasty Plot, and the Speed allows Thundurus-T to outspeed base 100 Speed Pokemon such as Mega Charizard Y, Mega Gardevoir, Mega Kangaskhan, and Volcarona. Sitrus Berry is the preferred item to allow Thundurus-T to heal some of the damage it might take while setting up, and prevents it from being 2HKOed by Choice Band Talonflame's Brave Bird. It also allows Thundurus-T to avoid a 2HKO from Rotom-W's Hydro Pump and Cresselia's Ice Beam, which makes it easier to set up on them. Life Orb can be used as an alternative that makes Thundurus-T less reliant on setting up, notably allowing it to OHKO Mega Kangaskhan and Ferrothorn with Focus Blast, though this makes it tougher to check Talonflame since this wears Thundurus-T down quickly. Volt Absorb is Thundurus-T's only ability available, but it's very useful for switching into any predicted Electric-type moves such as Thunder Wave, Volt Switch, and Thunderbolt.
Usage Tips
========
This set's primary role is to break down sturdy walls and sweep after a Nasty Plot, so it's best used against slower, bulkier teams. However, Thundurus-T can function either as a sweeper or as a wallbreaker due to its naturally high Special Attack, so it doesn't always need to focus on finding the opportunity to set up. Volt Absorb makes Thundurus-T one of the best offensive checks to opposing Thundurus, so it should take advantage of the fact that its presence alone deters Thundurus from carelessly using Thunder Wave. This gives Thundurus-T a stronger presence at Team Preview, since the threat of Volt Absorb alone can deter the opponent from bringing their Electric-types. For this reason, you don't always need to bring Thundurus-T into battle. Thundurus-T can also be used to check Flying-types such as Mega Salamence and Talonflame, though it should not be used as your primary check, since it's not very bulky and can still be easily worn down even with its Sitrus Berry.
Team Options
========
Pokemon that struggle with Thundurus make great partners. Blaziken, Suicune, Azumarill, Greninja, and Garchomp are all powerful teammates that appreciate having a teammate that can deal with Thundurus. Blaziken in particular deals with Rock-types and Ice-types for Thundurus-T while appreciating its ability to deal with Talonflame. Water-types such as Suicune and Azumarill can also handle Ice-type moves that give trouble Thundurus-T. Ground-types such as Hippowdon, Landorus-T, and Swampert can cover its Rock-type weakness and also provide Stealth Rock support to aid its sweeping attempts. Landorus-T in particular provides Intimidate support that helps Thundurus-T take physical attacks better. Mega Mawile can provide similar support and also appreciates Thundurus-T's ability to switch into Ground-type moves. Grass-types such as Serperior and Breloom, as well as Fighting-types such as Heracross and Conkeldurr also appreciate Thundurus-T's ability to check common Flying-types such as Talonflame and Mega Salamence.
[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Thunderbolt
move 2: Hidden Power Ice
move 3: Focus Blast / Psychic / Grass Knot
move 4: Volt Switch
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Volt Absorb
nature: Modest
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Thunderbolt is Thundurus-T's primary STAB move, providing great coverage and consistent power. Hidden Power Ice hits Dragon- and Ground-types such as Garchomp, Dragonite, Mega Salamence, and Landorus-T, complementing Thunderbolt's coverage well. Focus Blast rounds out Thundurus-T's coverage, hitting foes that don't mind Thunderbolt or Hidden Power Ice such as Ferrothorn, Tyranitar, Hydreigon, and Porygon2. Psychic can be used instead to hit Mega Venusaur and to beat Mega Blaziken at +1 Speed. Alternatively, Grass Knot can be used to give Thundurus-T coverage against Rock- and Ground-types such as Hippowdon, Swampert, and Tyranitar. Volt Switch is the preferred choice in the last slot, since it allows Thundurus-T to pivot out of bad matchups while maintaining momentum. Thundurus-T can give up Thunderbolt or Volt Switch to run another coverage move, though Thunderbolt's power and Volt Switch's utility are usually more important than the coverage that Psychic or Grass Knot provides.
Set Details
========
Choice Scarf patches up Thundurus-T's middling Speed and allows it to function as a strong revenge killer due to its great Special Attack. Volt Absorb allows Thundurus-T to heal from Electric-type moves, which is its biggest draw for the ability to counter Thundurus. Maximum Special Attack and Speed investment is ideal to allow Thundurus-T to hit as hard and fast as possible. A Modest nature is preferred over Timid to maximize Thundurus-T's damage output, and Timid doesn't help outspeed anything notable. If checking Talonflame is particularly important, a bulkier spread of 200 Def / 200 SpA / 108 Spe can be used to avoid being 2HKOed by Choice Band Talonflame's Brave Bird while still outspeeding Adamant Dragonite after a Dragon Dance and the occasional Choice Scarf Breloom.
Usage Tips
========
Thundurus-T still has great Special Attack even without a boosting item, so it can still break through foes that aren't dedicated walls. However, this Thundurus-T set is used primarily as a revenge killer or late-game cleaner, so it should be ideally brought in after a teammate has been KOed. Leading with Thundurus-T is also a viable approach if the opposing team lacks Ground-types, since it can simply Volt Switch out against an unfavorable matchup. Try to avoid making Thundurus-T's item too obvious, since bluffing another set can allow you to surprise a foe later in the game. This is particularly important if Thundurus-T is being used to revenge kill foes such as Mega Salamence and Garchomp, since it becomes much easier for the opponent to play around Thundurus-T if they know it's locked into a move. Locking into a coverage move can be particularly dangerous because it can give powerful sweepers such as Mega Kangaskhan, Volcarona, and Mega Charizard X an easy setup opportunity.
Team Options
========
Thundurus-T appreciates Stealth Rock support in order to effectively clean late-game, so teammates such as Landorus-T, Garchomp, Ferrothorn, and Hippowdon are great for their ability to provide this support and weaken teams through other means of residual damage. These all can handle Rock-type moves that trouble Thundurus-T. Thundurus-T also appreciates teammates that can handle Ice-type moves, such as Blaziken, Volcarona, Suicune, and Slowbro. In return, Thundurus-T handles Electric-types such as Thundurus, which gives them a difficult time. In the case of Blaziken and Volcarona, Thundurus-T can also handle Talonflame and Mega Salamence, though it must be careful switching into them, since it isn't very bulky. Mega Lucario and Mega Mawile tend to struggle with bulky Water-types, so they appreciate Thundurus-T's ability to come in and revenge kill them. Thundurus-T can also punish Ground-type moves that are aimed at them, though this must be done carefully, since Thundurus-T isn't particularly bulky itself. Even though Thundurus-T has great Special Attack on its own, wallbreakers such as Mega Gengar and Mega Heracross can break through troublesome walls that Thundurus-T has trouble beating by itself, such as Chansey and Mega Venusaur.
[SET]
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Thunderbolt
move 2: Hidden Power Ice
move 3: Focus Blast / Psychic / Grass Knot
move 4: Volt Switch
item: Choice Specs
ability: Volt Absorb
nature: Timid / Modest
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Thunderbolt is Thundurus-T's primary STAB move for wallbreaking, boasting great coverage and consistent power. Hidden Power Ice complements Thunderbolt's coverage, allowing Thundurus-T to hit Ground- and Dragon-types such as Landorus-T, Hippowdon, Garchomp, Mega Salamence, and Dragonite. Focus Blast is the preferred coverage move in order to hit Dark-, Steel-, and Normal-types such as Tyranitar, Hydreigon, Ferrothorn, and Porygon2, which have few issues beating Thundurus-T otherwise. However, Psychic can be used to hit Mega Venusaur and more consistently OHKO bulky Mega Gengar. Grass Knot is another alternative that gives Thundurus-T coverage against Rock- and Ground-types, such as Tyranitar, Hippowdon, and Swampert, though locking into it can be very risky due to its variable power. Volt Switch is also used in order to allow Thundurus-T to pivot out of bad matchups while still maintaining momentum.
Set Details
========
Maximum Speed and Special Attack helps Thundurus-T take full advantage of Choice Specs by hitting as hard and fast as possible. Choice Specs turns Thundurus-T into a powerful wallbreaker capable of breaking through most threats in the format. A Timid nature is preferred to allow Thundurus-T to outspeed the many important Pokemon in the crowded base 100 Speed range, such as Mega Kangaskhan, Mega Charizard Y, and Mega Salamence before it Mega Evolves. However, a Modest nature can be used to KO a wider range of threats, such as Rotom-W with Thunderbolt and Mega Heracross with Psychic. Volt Absorb makes Thundurus-T a reliable answer to Electric-types, notably allowing it to switch into Thundurus safely and deter it from using Electric-type moves.
Usage Tips
========
Thundurus-T aims to break down bulkier foes with its powerful Electric-type moves, so this set works best as a lead. This is particularly effective if the foe lacks Ground-types, since switching into a Choice Specs-boosted Thunderbolt is difficult for anything except the bulkiest special walls, such as Chansey and Mega Venusaur. Thundurus-T should usually use Volt Switch early-game in anticipation of a switch, since Thundurus-T's huge Special Attack still allows it to get a big hit in while maintaining momentum. Thundurus-T is powerful enough to use Hidden Power Ice even against foes that only have a single weakness to Ice such as Hippowdon, though it can be dangerous to lock into. Thundurus-T's great Special Attack can reward a well-predicted switch, so the option to use a coverage move shouldn't be overlooked, but avoid carelessly locking into a coverage moves early-game unless the foe lacks any way to immediately punish it.
Team Options
========
Speed control helps Thundurus-T out greatly due to its Speed only being slightly above average. Common users of Thunder Wave such as Ferrothorn, Cresselia, and Porygon2 are effective partners, while Serperior can also provide the same support with Glare. Physical attackers such as Mega Kangaskhan, Talonflame, Mega Blaziken, and Garchomp appreciate Thundurus-T's ability to blast through physical walls for them, such as Cresselia and Suicune. Stealth Rock support is useful to help Thundurus-T beat foes more easily, so Pokemon such as Hippowdon, Ferrothorn, Landorus-T, and Swampert are effective teammates. These Pokemon can also handle Rock-type moves aimed at Thundurus-T and sometimes run Rocky Helmet to wear down physical attackers further. Grass-types and Fighting-types such as Serperior, Breloom, Mega Heracross, and Mega Lopunny all benefit from Thundurus-T's ability to check Flying-types. Breloom and Mega Lopunny also appreciate Thundurus-T's ability to threaten physical walls for them, as they typically have trouble breaking through the likes of Cresselia. Bulky Water-types such as Suicune and Slowbro enjoy Thundurus-T switching into Grass- and Electric-type moves for them, while they can handle Ice-type moves that threaten Thundurus-T.
[SET]
name: Assault Vest
move 1: Thunderbolt
move 2: Hidden Power Ice
move 3: Volt Switch
move 4: Focus Blast / Psychic / Grass Knot
item: Assault Vest
ability: Volt Absorb
nature: Modest
evs: 220 HP / 56 Def / 128 SpA / 108 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Thunderbolt is Thundurus-T's most reliable STAB move, providing great coverage and power. Hidden Power Ice complements Thunderbolt's coverage well, hitting Ground- and Dragon-types such as Landorus-T, Garchomp, Dragonite, and Mega Salamence. Volt Switch is necessary on this set, as it allows Thundurus-T to function effectively as a pivot, as it will often be switching into foes and pressuring them with its powerful attacks. Focus Blast is the preferred coverage move, since it allows Thundurus-T to hit Porygon2 and Tyranitar, notably OHKOing most variants of the latter under sand. Psychic is a viable alternative, though, if Mega Venusaur and Mega Heracross are bigger threats to the team. Grass Knot hits Ground-types that don't mind Hidden Power Ice, such as Hippowdon, Swampert, and Gastrodon, though it has few other targets. Running three coverage moves is also viable, though this usually comes at the cost of Thunderbolt or Volt Switch, which is often difficult to make room for.
Set Details
========
Assault Vest gives Thundurus-T the bulk to take special attacks, such as Hidden Power Ice from opposing Thundurus, Ice Beam from Greninja, and Hydro Pump from Rotom-W. The given HP and Defense EVs allow Thundurus-T to never be 2HKOed by Brave Bird from Adamant Choice Band Talonflame so that it can switch in and revenge kill it if necessary. While this appears less efficient than investing more in Defense, the HP investment is required to allow Thundurus-T to survive Life Orb Greninja's Ice Beam. 108 Speed EVs ensure that Thundurus-T outspeeds up to positive-natured base 70 Pokemon such as Breloom, and the rest is placed in Special Attack so that it can hit foes as hard as possible. A Modest nature is used to boost Thundurus-T's damage output further and is preferred over Timid because this set is designed to tank hits and deal damage rather than wallbreak or sweep. Volt Absorb allows Thundurus-T to check Electric-types such as Zapdos, Rotom-W, and opposing Thundurus. The damage it heals from Electric-type moves also helps Thundurus-T stay healthy.
Usage Tips
========
Assault Vest Thundurus-T is a tank, so it should be used to switch into special attackers and take advantage of its great coverage. At the same time, this Thundurus-T lacks the power of most other sets, so it should not be used as a wallbreaker. Thundurus-T often forces switches due to its great power, so using Volt Switch often is essential to maintain momentum. If the foe lacks Ground-types, using Volt Switch is often very safe. While Thundurus-T can take special hits relatively well, it has no way to heal off the damage it takes, and Volt Absorb can't be relied on at all times, so be careful about letting it take too much damage. However, Electric-types such as Zapdos, Rotom-W, and Thundurus have trouble doing much to Thundurus-T in the first place outside of Toxic or Will-O-Wisp, so don't hesitate to switch into them to try and heal damage whenever possible.
Team Options
========
Teammates that struggle with Electric-types such as Thundurus appreciate Thundurus-T's ability to switch into any Electric-type with easy. Suicune, Slowbro, Talonflame, Mega Salamence, and Blaziken all appreciate Thundurus-T's ability to handle Electric-types, especially opposing Thundurus. Teammates that can handle Rock-type moves, such as Garchomp, Ferrothorn, Mega Heracross, and Mega Lucario, are effective options that generally appreciate a teammate that can safely Volt Switch to bring them in. Intimidate support helps Thundurus-T takes physical attacks better, allowing it to more easily switch into a wide range of Pokemon. This makes Pokemon such as Landorus-T, Mega Salamence, and Gyarados great options, with Landorus-T in particular forming a strong VoltTurn core with Thundurus-T. However, in the case of the former two, this doubles up on an Ice-type weakness that Thundurus-T itself wants covered. Meanwhile, Gyarados greatly appreciates Thundurus-T's ability to switch into Electric-type moves that threaten it. Thundurus-T also appreciates teammates such as Suicune, Volcarona, Mega Mawile, and Aegislash that can handle Ice-type moves well, and they all generally appreciate having a teammate that can handle Thundurus.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
Agility with Weakness Policy can be used to boost Thundurus-T's Special Attack and Speed without needing to run Nasty Plot; however, Thundurus-T is not bulky enough to make this a consistent option. Agility can also be used together with Nasty Plot for a double dance sweeper, though this comes at the cost of a valuable coverage slot, and it often won't be able to use both moves in one game. Hidden Power Flying can be used on the Nasty Plot set to give Thundurus-T a secondary STAB attack to hit Grass-types such as Mega Venusaur, though this is only legal with an even number of Speed IVs, which is typically undesirable because this causes it to Speed tie with base 100 Pokemon. However, this isn't a major issue on a bulkier Thundurus-T that doesn't mind having less Speed. Dark Pulse can be used on the Choice Specs set in order to hit Aegislash and Cresselia harder, but it's typically inferior to the other coverage moves. Similarly, Sludge Wave can be used to hit Fairy-types such as Sylveon and Mega Gardevoir harder on teams that have trouble switching into Fairy-type moves. Thundurus-T is often used on rain teams as a check to Thundurus, so Thunder is a viable option over Thunderbolt on these teams for more power.
Checks and Counters
===================
**Special Walls**: Special walls such as Blissey, Chansey, and Mega Venusaur can tank most attacks that Thundurus-T runs. Blissey and Chansey can usually cripple Thundurus-T with Toxic and stall it out with Soft-Boiled, while Mega Venusaur can gradually take it down with Sludge Bomb and heal off damage with Synthesis or Leech Seed. Porygon2 can also wall Thundurus-T thanks to Trace and beat it with Ice Beam. However, they still need to watch out for Focus Blast and Psychic, especially from Nasty Plot variants.
**Specially Bulky Attackers**: Common Assault Vest users such as Conkeldurr and Mamoswine can take a hit from Thundurus-T and retaliate with Ice Punch or Icicle Spear. Calm Mind Raikou can also be difficult for Thundurus-T to break through, since it doesn't take too much damage from any of Thundurus-T's attacks aside from Focus Blast.
**Ice-type moves**: Mamoswine, especially Assault Vest and Focus Sash variants, can survive Thundurus-T's Focus Blast and can retaliate with a STAB Icicle Spear and Ice Shard. Weavile also outspeeds Thundurus-T if it lacks a Choice Scarf and can OHKO with Icicle Crash, while Greninja can give Thundurus-T some trouble.
**Powerful Attackers**: Thundurus-T isn't particularly bulky, so strong attackers that can outspeed Thundurus-T such as Garchomp, Mega Blaziken, Choice Scarf Landorus-T, and Sand Rush Excadrill can handle it. Rock-type coverage is common on many physical attackers as well, so physical attackers such as Mega Heracross that can typically take a hit from Thundurus-T can take it down with Rock Blast.
**Fairy-types**: Gardevoir can switch in safely thanks to Trace, which greatly disrupts Choice variants using Electric-type moves, and threaten to OHKO more offensive variants with Hyper Voice. Sylveon can also tank a hit from Thundurus-T and OHKO with Hyper Voice, though it should avoid switching into Choice Specs Thundurus-T.
Thundurus-T is a unique special attacker in Battle Spot Singles, capable of functioning as a more powerful wallbreaker and sweeper than its more common Incarnate Forme. However, this comes with a significant Speed drop that leaves it outsped by the likes of Garchomp, Latios, and Gengar, as well as losing the valuable utility of Prankster that makes Thundurus a huge threat. On the other hand, access to Volt Absorb instead allows it to function as one of the best Thundurus counters in the format, which is generally the primary reason to use Thundurus-T over Thundurus. Its Electric / Flying typing also grants it useful resistances to Fighting- and Flying-type moves as well as a Ground-type immunity, with only two weaknesses in Ice- and Rock-type moves. However, Thundurus-T's bulk isn't great, so it needs significant defensive investment in order to actually switch into stronger threats such as Mega Salamence and Choice Band Talonflame. Thundurus-T also has access to a wide range of coverage moves such as Psychic, Focus Blast, Hidden Power Ice, and Grass Knot, which allow it to check various threats in the format such as Mega Venusaur, Tyranitar, Dragonite, Ferrothorn, and Hydreigon. Access to Nasty Plot and Agility also allows Thundurus-T to capitalize on its wallbreaking capabilities and mitigate its drop in Speed to either break through bulkier teams or sweep against offensive teams.
[SET]
name: Nasty Plot
move 1: Nasty Plot
move 2: Thunderbolt
move 3: Hidden Power Ice
move 4: Focus Blast / Psychic / Grass Knot
item: Sitrus Berry / Life Orb
ability: Volt Absorb
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Nasty Plot allows Thundurus-T to function as a dedicated wallbreaker, allowing it to break through nearly any wall after a boost. Thunderbolt is Thundurus-T's primary STAB move, offering consistent power and great coverage. Hidden Power Ice hits Dragon-types such as Dragonite, Garchomp, and Mega Salamence as well as Ground-types such as Landorus-T and Hippowdon. Focus Blast is the ideal coverage move, since it allows Thundurus-T to hit Ferrothorn, Tyranitar, Mamoswine, and Hydreigon harder, as well as break through Porygon2 and Chansey after a Nasty Plot. Psychic is an option if Focus Blast's coverage is not needed, allowing Thundurus-T to hit Mega Venusaur and Mega Heracross harder. Grass Knot can also be used to hit bulky Ground-types that don't mind Hidden Power Ice, such as Swampert and Gastrodon, and also hits Tyranitar and Hippowdon.
Set Details
========
Maximum Special Attack and Speed investment allows Thundurus-T to hit as hard and fast as possible, while the leftover EVs are placed in Special Defense. A Timid nature is preferred because the power boost from Modest is unnecessary with Nasty Plot, and the Speed allows Thundurus-T to outspeed base 100 Speed Pokemon such as Mega Charizard Y, Mega Gardevoir, Mega Kangaskhan, and Volcarona. Sitrus Berry is the preferred item to allow Thundurus-T to heal some of the damage it might take while setting up, and prevents it from being 2HKOed by Choice Band Talonflame's Brave Bird. It also allows Thundurus-T to avoid a 2HKO from Rotom-W's Hydro Pump and Cresselia's Ice Beam, which makes it easier to set up on them. Life Orb can be used as an alternative that makes Thundurus-T less reliant on setting up, notably allowing it to OHKO Mega Kangaskhan and Ferrothorn with Focus Blast, though this makes it tougher to check Talonflame since this wears Thundurus-T down quickly. Volt Absorb is Thundurus-T's only ability available, but it's very useful for switching into any predicted Electric-type moves such as Thunder Wave, Volt Switch, and Thunderbolt.
Usage Tips
========
This set's primary role is to break down sturdy walls and sweep after a Nasty Plot, so it's best used against slower, bulkier teams. However, Thundurus-T can function either as a sweeper or as a wallbreaker due to its naturally high Special Attack, so it doesn't always need to focus on finding the opportunity to set up. Volt Absorb makes Thundurus-T one of the best offensive checks to opposing Thundurus, so it should take advantage of the fact that its presence alone deters Thundurus from carelessly using Thunder Wave. This gives Thundurus-T a stronger presence at Team Preview, since the threat of Volt Absorb alone can deter the opponent from bringing their Electric-types. For this reason, you don't always need to bring Thundurus-T into battle. Thundurus-T can also be used to check Flying-types such as Mega Salamence and Talonflame, though it should not be used as your primary check, since it's not very bulky and can still be easily worn down even with its Sitrus Berry.
Team Options
========
Pokemon that struggle with Thundurus make great partners. Blaziken, Suicune, Azumarill, Greninja, and Garchomp are all powerful teammates that appreciate having a teammate that can deal with Thundurus. Blaziken in particular deals with Rock-types and Ice-types for Thundurus-T while appreciating its ability to deal with Talonflame. Water-types such as Suicune and Azumarill can also handle Ice-type moves that give trouble Thundurus-T. Ground-types such as Hippowdon, Landorus-T, and Swampert can cover its Rock-type weakness and also provide Stealth Rock support to aid its sweeping attempts. Landorus-T in particular provides Intimidate support that helps Thundurus-T take physical attacks better. Mega Mawile can provide similar support and also appreciates Thundurus-T's ability to switch into Ground-type moves. Grass-types such as Serperior and Breloom, as well as Fighting-types such as Heracross and Conkeldurr also appreciate Thundurus-T's ability to check common Flying-types such as Talonflame and Mega Salamence.
[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Thunderbolt
move 2: Hidden Power Ice
move 3: Focus Blast / Psychic / Grass Knot
move 4: Volt Switch
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Volt Absorb
nature: Modest
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Thunderbolt is Thundurus-T's primary STAB move, providing great coverage and consistent power. Hidden Power Ice hits Dragon- and Ground-types such as Garchomp, Dragonite, Mega Salamence, and Landorus-T, complementing Thunderbolt's coverage well. Focus Blast rounds out Thundurus-T's coverage, hitting foes that don't mind Thunderbolt or Hidden Power Ice such as Ferrothorn, Tyranitar, Hydreigon, and Porygon2. Psychic can be used instead to hit Mega Venusaur and to beat Mega Blaziken at +1 Speed. Alternatively, Grass Knot can be used to give Thundurus-T coverage against Rock- and Ground-types such as Hippowdon, Swampert, and Tyranitar. Volt Switch is the preferred choice in the last slot, since it allows Thundurus-T to pivot out of bad matchups while maintaining momentum. Thundurus-T can give up Thunderbolt or Volt Switch to run another coverage move, though Thunderbolt's power and Volt Switch's utility are usually more important than the coverage that Psychic or Grass Knot provides.
Set Details
========
Choice Scarf patches up Thundurus-T's middling Speed and allows it to function as a strong revenge killer due to its great Special Attack. Volt Absorb allows Thundurus-T to heal from Electric-type moves, which is its biggest draw for the ability to counter Thundurus. Maximum Special Attack and Speed investment is ideal to allow Thundurus-T to hit as hard and fast as possible. A Modest nature is preferred over Timid to maximize Thundurus-T's damage output, and Timid doesn't help outspeed anything notable. If checking Talonflame is particularly important, a bulkier spread of 200 Def / 200 SpA / 108 Spe can be used to avoid being 2HKOed by Choice Band Talonflame's Brave Bird while still outspeeding Adamant Dragonite after a Dragon Dance and the occasional Choice Scarf Breloom.
Usage Tips
========
Thundurus-T still has great Special Attack even without a boosting item, so it can still break through foes that aren't dedicated walls. However, this Thundurus-T set is used primarily as a revenge killer or late-game cleaner, so it should be ideally brought in after a teammate has been KOed. Leading with Thundurus-T is also a viable approach if the opposing team lacks Ground-types, since it can simply Volt Switch out against an unfavorable matchup. Try to avoid making Thundurus-T's item too obvious, since bluffing another set can allow you to surprise a foe later in the game. This is particularly important if Thundurus-T is being used to revenge kill foes such as Mega Salamence and Garchomp, since it becomes much easier for the opponent to play around Thundurus-T if they know it's locked into a move. Locking into a coverage move can be particularly dangerous because it can give powerful sweepers such as Mega Kangaskhan, Volcarona, and Mega Charizard X an easy setup opportunity.
Team Options
========
Thundurus-T appreciates Stealth Rock support in order to effectively clean late-game, so teammates such as Landorus-T, Garchomp, Ferrothorn, and Hippowdon are great for their ability to provide this support and weaken teams through other means of residual damage. These all can handle Rock-type moves that trouble Thundurus-T. Thundurus-T also appreciates teammates that can handle Ice-type moves, such as Blaziken, Volcarona, Suicune, and Slowbro. In return, Thundurus-T handles Electric-types such as Thundurus, which gives them a difficult time. In the case of Blaziken and Volcarona, Thundurus-T can also handle Talonflame and Mega Salamence, though it must be careful switching into them, since it isn't very bulky. Mega Lucario and Mega Mawile tend to struggle with bulky Water-types, so they appreciate Thundurus-T's ability to come in and revenge kill them. Thundurus-T can also punish Ground-type moves that are aimed at them, though this must be done carefully, since Thundurus-T isn't particularly bulky itself. Even though Thundurus-T has great Special Attack on its own, wallbreakers such as Mega Gengar and Mega Heracross can break through troublesome walls that Thundurus-T has trouble beating by itself, such as Chansey and Mega Venusaur.
[SET]
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Thunderbolt
move 2: Hidden Power Ice
move 3: Focus Blast / Psychic / Grass Knot
move 4: Volt Switch
item: Choice Specs
ability: Volt Absorb
nature: Timid / Modest
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Thunderbolt is Thundurus-T's primary STAB move for wallbreaking, boasting great coverage and consistent power. Hidden Power Ice complements Thunderbolt's coverage, allowing Thundurus-T to hit Ground- and Dragon-types such as Landorus-T, Hippowdon, Garchomp, Mega Salamence, and Dragonite. Focus Blast is the preferred coverage move in order to hit Dark-, Steel-, and Normal-types such as Tyranitar, Hydreigon, Ferrothorn, and Porygon2, which have few issues beating Thundurus-T otherwise. However, Psychic can be used to hit Mega Venusaur and more consistently OHKO bulky Mega Gengar. Grass Knot is another alternative that gives Thundurus-T coverage against Rock- and Ground-types, such as Tyranitar, Hippowdon, and Swampert, though locking into it can be very risky due to its variable power. Volt Switch is also used in order to allow Thundurus-T to pivot out of bad matchups while still maintaining momentum.
Set Details
========
Maximum Speed and Special Attack helps Thundurus-T take full advantage of Choice Specs by hitting as hard and fast as possible. Choice Specs turns Thundurus-T into a powerful wallbreaker capable of breaking through most threats in the format. A Timid nature is preferred to allow Thundurus-T to outspeed the many important Pokemon in the crowded base 100 Speed range, such as Mega Kangaskhan, Mega Charizard Y, and Mega Salamence before it Mega Evolves. However, a Modest nature can be used to KO a wider range of threats, such as Rotom-W with Thunderbolt and Mega Heracross with Psychic. Volt Absorb makes Thundurus-T a reliable answer to Electric-types, notably allowing it to switch into Thundurus safely and deter it from using Electric-type moves.
Usage Tips
========
Thundurus-T aims to break down bulkier foes with its powerful Electric-type moves, so this set works best as a lead. This is particularly effective if the foe lacks Ground-types, since switching into a Choice Specs-boosted Thunderbolt is difficult for anything except the bulkiest special walls, such as Chansey and Mega Venusaur. Thundurus-T should usually use Volt Switch early-game in anticipation of a switch, since Thundurus-T's huge Special Attack still allows it to get a big hit in while maintaining momentum. Thundurus-T is powerful enough to use Hidden Power Ice even against foes that only have a single weakness to Ice such as Hippowdon, though it can be dangerous to lock into. Thundurus-T's great Special Attack can reward a well-predicted switch, so the option to use a coverage move shouldn't be overlooked, but avoid carelessly locking into a coverage moves early-game unless the foe lacks any way to immediately punish it.
Team Options
========
Speed control helps Thundurus-T out greatly due to its Speed only being slightly above average. Common users of Thunder Wave such as Ferrothorn, Cresselia, and Porygon2 are effective partners, while Serperior can also provide the same support with Glare. Physical attackers such as Mega Kangaskhan, Talonflame, Mega Blaziken, and Garchomp appreciate Thundurus-T's ability to blast through physical walls for them, such as Cresselia and Suicune. Stealth Rock support is useful to help Thundurus-T beat foes more easily, so Pokemon such as Hippowdon, Ferrothorn, Landorus-T, and Swampert are effective teammates. These Pokemon can also handle Rock-type moves aimed at Thundurus-T and sometimes run Rocky Helmet to wear down physical attackers further. Grass-types and Fighting-types such as Serperior, Breloom, Mega Heracross, and Mega Lopunny all benefit from Thundurus-T's ability to check Flying-types. Breloom and Mega Lopunny also appreciate Thundurus-T's ability to threaten physical walls for them, as they typically have trouble breaking through the likes of Cresselia. Bulky Water-types such as Suicune and Slowbro enjoy Thundurus-T switching into Grass- and Electric-type moves for them, while they can handle Ice-type moves that threaten Thundurus-T.
[SET]
name: Assault Vest
move 1: Thunderbolt
move 2: Hidden Power Ice
move 3: Volt Switch
move 4: Focus Blast / Psychic / Grass Knot
item: Assault Vest
ability: Volt Absorb
nature: Modest
evs: 220 HP / 56 Def / 128 SpA / 108 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Thunderbolt is Thundurus-T's most reliable STAB move, providing great coverage and power. Hidden Power Ice complements Thunderbolt's coverage well, hitting Ground- and Dragon-types such as Landorus-T, Garchomp, Dragonite, and Mega Salamence. Volt Switch is necessary on this set, as it allows Thundurus-T to function effectively as a pivot, as it will often be switching into foes and pressuring them with its powerful attacks. Focus Blast is the preferred coverage move, since it allows Thundurus-T to hit Porygon2 and Tyranitar, notably OHKOing most variants of the latter under sand. Psychic is a viable alternative, though, if Mega Venusaur and Mega Heracross are bigger threats to the team. Grass Knot hits Ground-types that don't mind Hidden Power Ice, such as Hippowdon, Swampert, and Gastrodon, though it has few other targets. Running three coverage moves is also viable, though this usually comes at the cost of Thunderbolt or Volt Switch, which is often difficult to make room for.
Set Details
========
Assault Vest gives Thundurus-T the bulk to take special attacks, such as Hidden Power Ice from opposing Thundurus, Ice Beam from Greninja, and Hydro Pump from Rotom-W. The given HP and Defense EVs allow Thundurus-T to never be 2HKOed by Brave Bird from Adamant Choice Band Talonflame so that it can switch in and revenge kill it if necessary. While this appears less efficient than investing more in Defense, the HP investment is required to allow Thundurus-T to survive Life Orb Greninja's Ice Beam. 108 Speed EVs ensure that Thundurus-T outspeeds up to positive-natured base 70 Pokemon such as Breloom, and the rest is placed in Special Attack so that it can hit foes as hard as possible. A Modest nature is used to boost Thundurus-T's damage output further and is preferred over Timid because this set is designed to tank hits and deal damage rather than wallbreak or sweep. Volt Absorb allows Thundurus-T to check Electric-types such as Zapdos, Rotom-W, and opposing Thundurus. The damage it heals from Electric-type moves also helps Thundurus-T stay healthy.
Usage Tips
========
Assault Vest Thundurus-T is a tank, so it should be used to switch into special attackers and take advantage of its great coverage. At the same time, this Thundurus-T lacks the power of most other sets, so it should not be used as a wallbreaker. Thundurus-T often forces switches due to its great power, so using Volt Switch often is essential to maintain momentum. If the foe lacks Ground-types, using Volt Switch is often very safe. While Thundurus-T can take special hits relatively well, it has no way to heal off the damage it takes, and Volt Absorb can't be relied on at all times, so be careful about letting it take too much damage. However, Electric-types such as Zapdos, Rotom-W, and Thundurus have trouble doing much to Thundurus-T in the first place outside of Toxic or Will-O-Wisp, so don't hesitate to switch into them to try and heal damage whenever possible.
Team Options
========
Teammates that struggle with Electric-types such as Thundurus appreciate Thundurus-T's ability to switch into any Electric-type with easy. Suicune, Slowbro, Talonflame, Mega Salamence, and Blaziken all appreciate Thundurus-T's ability to handle Electric-types, especially opposing Thundurus. Teammates that can handle Rock-type moves, such as Garchomp, Ferrothorn, Mega Heracross, and Mega Lucario, are effective options that generally appreciate a teammate that can safely Volt Switch to bring them in. Intimidate support helps Thundurus-T takes physical attacks better, allowing it to more easily switch into a wide range of Pokemon. This makes Pokemon such as Landorus-T, Mega Salamence, and Gyarados great options, with Landorus-T in particular forming a strong VoltTurn core with Thundurus-T. However, in the case of the former two, this doubles up on an Ice-type weakness that Thundurus-T itself wants covered. Meanwhile, Gyarados greatly appreciates Thundurus-T's ability to switch into Electric-type moves that threaten it. Thundurus-T also appreciates teammates such as Suicune, Volcarona, Mega Mawile, and Aegislash that can handle Ice-type moves well, and they all generally appreciate having a teammate that can handle Thundurus.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
Agility with Weakness Policy can be used to boost Thundurus-T's Special Attack and Speed without needing to run Nasty Plot; however, Thundurus-T is not bulky enough to make this a consistent option. Agility can also be used together with Nasty Plot for a double dance sweeper, though this comes at the cost of a valuable coverage slot, and it often won't be able to use both moves in one game. Hidden Power Flying can be used on the Nasty Plot set to give Thundurus-T a secondary STAB attack to hit Grass-types such as Mega Venusaur, though this is only legal with an even number of Speed IVs, which is typically undesirable because this causes it to Speed tie with base 100 Pokemon. However, this isn't a major issue on a bulkier Thundurus-T that doesn't mind having less Speed. Dark Pulse can be used on the Choice Specs set in order to hit Aegislash and Cresselia harder, but it's typically inferior to the other coverage moves. Similarly, Sludge Wave can be used to hit Fairy-types such as Sylveon and Mega Gardevoir harder on teams that have trouble switching into Fairy-type moves. Thundurus-T is often used on rain teams as a check to Thundurus, so Thunder is a viable option over Thunderbolt on these teams for more power.
Checks and Counters
===================
**Special Walls**: Special walls such as Blissey, Chansey, and Mega Venusaur can tank most attacks that Thundurus-T runs. Blissey and Chansey can usually cripple Thundurus-T with Toxic and stall it out with Soft-Boiled, while Mega Venusaur can gradually take it down with Sludge Bomb and heal off damage with Synthesis or Leech Seed. Porygon2 can also wall Thundurus-T thanks to Trace and beat it with Ice Beam. However, they still need to watch out for Focus Blast and Psychic, especially from Nasty Plot variants.
**Specially Bulky Attackers**: Common Assault Vest users such as Conkeldurr and Mamoswine can take a hit from Thundurus-T and retaliate with Ice Punch or Icicle Spear. Calm Mind Raikou can also be difficult for Thundurus-T to break through, since it doesn't take too much damage from any of Thundurus-T's attacks aside from Focus Blast.
**Ice-type moves**: Mamoswine, especially Assault Vest and Focus Sash variants, can survive Thundurus-T's Focus Blast and can retaliate with a STAB Icicle Spear and Ice Shard. Weavile also outspeeds Thundurus-T if it lacks a Choice Scarf and can OHKO with Icicle Crash, while Greninja can give Thundurus-T some trouble.
**Powerful Attackers**: Thundurus-T isn't particularly bulky, so strong attackers that can outspeed Thundurus-T such as Garchomp, Mega Blaziken, Choice Scarf Landorus-T, and Sand Rush Excadrill can handle it. Rock-type coverage is common on many physical attackers as well, so physical attackers such as Mega Heracross that can typically take a hit from Thundurus-T can take it down with Rock Blast.
**Fairy-types**: Gardevoir can switch in safely thanks to Trace, which greatly disrupts Choice variants using Electric-type moves, and threaten to OHKO more offensive variants with Hyper Voice. Sylveon can also tank a hit from Thundurus-T and OHKO with Hyper Voice, though it should avoid switching into Choice Specs Thundurus-T.
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