Complete The Core Competition #1: Tapu Koko! (Won by cant say)

Theorymon

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Complete The Core!


Hello everyone, and welcome to a new series of Battle Spot threads, Complete the Core!

What is complete the core?

In the past, we've had Battle Spot cores threads. These are in a similar spirit, but with a twist: Each thread, we'll give you one Pokemon you have to use in a core, and you're goal is to complete it with another Pokemon. After about a week, we'll gather all submissions and have a vote. Whoever wins after 2 days of voting gets a nice and juicy twitter shout out on Smogon!

What do I have to do?

For each thread, I want you to post both a set for the featured Pokemon, and the teammate you have thought of. I want the full set for both Pokemon: all 4 moves, EVs, Nature, and item! Additionally, I'd like for each post to explain WHY you made those choices. If you explain your reasoning, you're more likely to win!

Feel free to foster discussion as well. Comment on other people's cores, maybe modify your core a bit after testing, anything like that is fair game before the vote starts! The voting will start on 1/15, 10 PM EST. After that, your sets are locked in. Any editing after that will DQ your post, sorry!

So let's get this show on the road!

Pokemon #1: Tapu Koko

Tapu Koko is the most used generation 7 Pokemon of Sun and Moon, and for good reason: it has an incredible speed tier, lots of power thanks to Electric Terrain, and its versatility rivals even Garchomp's! Tapu Koko has a lot of different viable set variations and tweaking you can do, so we're bound to get a lot of creative cores this time!

The cores to vote on:



Tapu Koko @ Choice Scarf
Ability: Electric Surge
Timid Nature
EVs: 252 SpA / 252 Spe / 4 Dsp
- Dazzling Gleam
- Thunderbolt
- Volt Switch
- U-Turn



Garchomp @ Focus Sash
Ability: Rough Skin
Jolly Nature
EVs: 252 Atk / 252 Spe / 4 Def
- Outrage
- Earthquake
- Fire Fang / Poison Jab
- Swords Dance


Edit : More details about the core

The two top-tiers of BSS. The key here is to provided answers at any time of the game. Sash Chomp is a good Lead that makes holes for Tapu Koko as a RKiller. Tapu Koko is also a good pivot that provides a good path for Chomp as a cleaner.
Each mon covers common weaknesses of the others. Chomp deals with A-Marowak, Aegislash, A-Muk that blocks Koko. On the other hand, Koko is a good answer for Cloyster, even at +2. Scarf Koko also outspeed Scarf Chomp and +1 Mega-Gyarados. Koko has the opportunity to pivot on Chomp and A-Marowak with U-Turn. Scarf and both VoltTurn moves make this Tapu Koko the definition of an offensive pivot.
Chomp has its standard set, needing extra power of Outrage over Dragon Claw, and Earthquake as its other STAB (don't forget that EQ doesn't make contact). Fire Fang (~ this Chomp is on fire ~) or Poison Jab, depending on your teammates, and SD as a mandatory for a late game usage.
It's a simple but relevant offensive core.


Optionally, to complete this core, I want to submit Mega Gyarados.



Gyarados @ Gyaradosite
Ability: Intimidate
EVs: 252 Atk / 252 Spe / 4 HP
Jolly Nature
- Dragon Dance
- Waterfall
- Earthquake
- Crunch / Ice Fang

Why ? The main nemesis of this core is Mamoswine and MDos is an effective answer to that. This is the standard DD Mega Gyarados set, also checking Aegislash, A-Marowak and A-Muk.
The last slot depends on what you needs, I personally choose Ice Fang for MMence.

So shut up and take my core[/quote]


Tapu Koko @ Shuca Berry / Electric Seed / Air Balloon / Focus Sash / Life Orb
Ability: Electric Surge
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
- Thunderbolt
- Dazzling Gleam
- Grass Knot / Hidden Power Ground
- Volt Switch

Salamence @ Salamencite
Ability: Intimidate
EVs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Double-Edge
- Earthquake
- Dragon Dance
- Roost / Substitute / Fire Blast / Facade

Just your standard Mence + Koko core. Mence + Raikou was probably my favourite to use last gen and I've tested a bit with this and it seems to work well. This core is more centred around Mence wth Koko supporting it by beating Dragons and Waters. Mence can switch into Ground moves though so there's that. The core's a bit weak to Mamoswine and Marowak-A but that's why using Porygon2 with them makes a really formidable trio.

Porygon2 @ Eviolite
Ability: Download / Trace
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD
Bold Nature
- Recover
- Shadow Ball
- Thunderbolt
- Ice Beam / Toxic


@ Focus Sash
Ability: Electric Surge
EVs: 4 HP / 4 Def / 248 SpA / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
- Thunderbolt
- Dazzling Gleam
- Hidden Power Ground
- Taunt

Standard Moves, barring Taunt that is mainly for Aurora Veil and setup mons. The Focus Sash is to beat opposing Sash Garchomp, +1 Mega Gyarados and to scout for a Choice Scarf/Sword Dance with no fear of being Earthquaked; it helps a lot even to deal with Rain teams. In this core it mainly acts as a Celesteela, Gyarados, and bulky Water-type check.




@ Assault Vest
Ability: Poison Touch
EVs: 164 HP / 92 Atk / 252 SpD
Brave Nature
- Knock Off
- Poison Jab
- Flamethrower
- Clear Smog

With Celesteela and Gyarados being checked by Tapu Koko, Alolan Muk becomes a great antimeta call, beating popular pokemon such as the tapus, threatening porygon2 with Knock Off, and being able to check Rain cores, Eeveepass teams and setup sweepers such as Mimikyu or Porygon-Z also thanks to Clear Smog. Flamethrower is mainly for Scizor (it always 2HKOs the 252 HP / 4 SpD set), and for Kartana (OHKOing it) that could otherwise threaten either Koko and Slowbro.


@ Rocky Helmet
Ability: Regenerator
EVs:252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpA
Relaxed Nature
- Scald / Flamethrower
- Ice Beam
- Trick Room
- Slack Off

It completes the Trick Room core with Muk-A, being able to face most of the pokemon that Koko and Muk can't face. Even if Slowbro could be seen as a poor man's Porygon2, not being as bulky on the special side, it still remains a fantastic check to Dragons , and ground-types such as Mamoswine or Rhyperior, while working better than p2 in the Mega Kangaskhan, Mega Metagross and Mega Lucario match up. Its Regenerator ability is also a great ability to have in order to maximize the chances to get Trick Room up in the late stages of the match.
Tapu Koko @ Electric Seed
Ability: Electric Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 192 HP / 20 Def / 116 SpA / 180 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Calm Mind
- Roost
- Thunderbolt
- Dazzling Gleam

Mamoswine @ Focus Sash
Ability: Oblivious
Level: 50
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Ice Shard
- Icicle Spear
- Earthquake
- Stealth Rock

This is a core that I've been using with some sucess. I was using a sash Koko before, but I got tired of being flinched by opposing Gyarados in matches that I could've won, so I made this spread for Koko. 192 HP and 20 Def along with the +1 from the Electric Seed makes Koko able to survive a lot of Earthquakes. 180 Speed with a Timid Nature outspeeds base 120's, and the rest go into Special Attack. Calm Mind makes Koko bulkier on the Special side and makes it hit harder, Roost is for realiable recovery, Thunderbolt is its most reliable STAB, and Dazzling Gleam hits Ground-Types, Grass-Types and Dragons.

Defensive calcs
+1 252 Atk Mold Breaker Gyarados-Mega Earthquake vs. +1 192 HP / 20 Def Tapu Koko: 146-172 (45.4 - 53.5%) -- 34.4% chance to 2HKO
+1 252+ Atk Salamence-Mega Earthquake vs. +1 192 HP / 20 Def Tapu Koko: 152-180 (47.3 - 56%) -- 79.3% chance to 2HKO
252+ Atk Life Orb Mamoswine Earthquake vs. +1 192 HP / 20 Def Tapu Koko: 182-218 (56.6 - 67.9%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 Atk Garchomp Earthquake vs. +1 192 HP / 20 Def Tapu Koko: 128-152 (39.8 - 47.3%) -- guaranteed 3HKO
+2 252 Atk Lucario-Mega Earthquake vs. +1 192 HP / 20 Def Tapu Koko: 184-218 (57.3 - 67.9%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
+2 252 Atk Adaptability Lucario-Mega Bullet Punch vs. +1 192 HP / 20 Def Tapu Koko: 74-88 (23 - 27.4%) -- 54.3% chance to 4HKO
+2 252+ Atk Cloyster Icicle Spear (5 hits) vs. +1 192 HP / 20 Def Tapu Koko: 140-170 (43.6 - 52.9%) -- approx. 9.4% chance to 2HKO


A partner that works well with this set is Mamoswine. It and Tapu Koko can deal with each others checks pretty well, as Koko deals with the bulky Waters, Gyarados and Celesteela, while Mamoswine deals with opoosing Ground-Types, Muk and Marowak, and provides Stealth Rock support, which helps Koko nab KOs more easily. A third pokemon that complements the core is Porygon2, being able to take a lot of hits and preserve Mamo's sash or Koko's Electric Seed if needed.
Tapu Koko @ Focus Sash
Ability: Electric Surge
Timid Nature
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 Def / 252 Spe
Level 50
- Calm Mind
- Taunt
- Thunderbolt
- Dazzling Gleam

Mudsdale @ Assault Vest
Ability: Stamina
Adamant Nature
EVs: 252 HP / 188 Atk / 64 Def / 4 SpD
- Close Combat
- Heavy Slam
- Earthquake
- Rock Tomb

Mudsdale works really well being able to check Marowak-A and Koko destroys Celesteela being able to Taunt it and prevent the Sub or Protect or Leech Seed and OHKO it. Mudsdale is also able to take a Earthquake from ScarfChomp and 2HKO it and get a plus 2 boost or plus 1 boost from Stamina if Garchomp uses Outrage or Earthquake.
Offensive VoltTurn!

Tapu Koko @ Focus Sash
Ability: Electric Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
Timid Nature

- Volt Switch (A harder hitting pivot option which you can abuse if there's no notable Electric immunity on the opponent's team)

- Thunderbolt (Staple STAB, deals with bulky flying / water mons such which Mega-Metagross has trouble with such as Celesteela and Mega-Gyarados)

- U-turn (Perfect lure for Alolan-Marowak as you can predict the switch and then have a good chance to OHKO with Mega-Metagross' Earthquake)

- Dazzling Gleam (Whittles down opposing dragon threats including Garchomp and Mega-Salamence, and can provide a OHKO on Hydreigon)


Metagross-Mega @ Metagrossite
Ability: Tough Claws
Level: 50
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Jolly Nature

- Zen Headbutt (Staple STAB, doesn't deal with particularly much that Koko can't handle (bar Mega-Venusaur and Amoonguss in post-bank) but is necessary for general coverage and sheer damage output)

- Meteor Mash (Breaks Porygon2 and Tapu Bulu which Tapu Koko can't do)

- Earthquake (Deals with some Steel-type threats to Koko including Aegislash, Magnezone and Alolan-Malowak)

- Bullet Punch (Priority option commonly used for revenge killing faster threats such as opposing Tapu Koko, Mega Gengar, and Pheromosa. Works in near perfect synergy with Tapu Koko as Electric Terrain can override Psychic Terrain, making Bullet Punch very abusing against Choice Scarf Tapu Lele)

One of my most simple, yet amazing offensive cores I've ever used. Tapu Koko and Mega-Metagross have absolutely beautiful offensive synergy and can cover each other's weaknesses. Sash Koko lets it take a hit from threats to the core including Scarf Garchomp / Mega-Gyarados / Mega-Salamence / Mega-Gengar, to which Koko can retaliate back heavily. While it can't OHKO either of these threats with STAB options, Mega-Metagross plays a pivotal role here by finishing all of these threats with Bullet Punch.
252 SpA Tapu Koko Dazzling Gleam vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Garchomp: 128-152 (69.5 - 82.6%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 Atk Tough Claws Mega Metagross Bullet Punch vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Garchomp: 51-61 (27.7 - 33.1%) -- guaranteed 4HKO

252 SpA Tapu Koko Thunderbolt vs. 0 HP / 0 SpD Mega Gyarados in Electric Terrain: 152-180 (89.4 - 105.8%) -- 37.5% chance to OHKO
252 Atk Tough Claws Mega Metagross Bullet Punch vs. 0 HP / 4 Def Mega Gyarados: 22-27 (12.9 - 15.8%) -- possible 7HKO

252 SpA Tapu Koko Dazzling Gleam vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Mega Salamence: 122-146 (71.3 - 85.3%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 Atk Tough Claws Mega Metagross Bullet Punch vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Mega Salamence: 40-48 (23.3 - 28%) -- 76.4% chance to 4HKO

252 SpA Tapu Koko Thunderbolt vs. 0 HP / 0 SpD Mega Gengar in Electric Terrain: 99-117 (73.3 - 86.6%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 Atk Tough Claws Mega Metagross Bullet Punch vs. 0 HP / 4 Def Mega Gengar: 58-69 (42.9 - 51.1%) -- 3.5% chance to 2HKO
Naturally, this is not a once sided relationship. Mega-Metagross provides a poison immunity which Tapu Koko appreciates, whilst also providing general defensive support with a spectacular 9 resistances, coupled with 80 / 150 / 110 bulk which makes for a really fat Pokemon in general. Metagross breaks defensive mons which Koko often can't get past including Porygon2, while Koko does the same for Metagross for pokemon like Celesteela / Slowbro.

And to complete the core we add in Hydreigon! Perfect Mega-Gengar and Alolan-Marowak counter due to typing, whilst levitate lets it switch in against choice locked Garchomp and other Pokemon carrying ground coverage. While Tapu Koko and Mega-Metagross naturally run the show, Hydreigon is the glue which keeps this all together, covering for weaknesses to the core whilst providing great speed control, coverage, and pivot.


Hyderigon @ Choice Scarf
Ability: Levitate
EVS: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature

- Fire Blast (Notably hits Mega-Scizor which can threaten the core, but also hits Celesteela / Tapu Bulu)

- Dark Pulse (Provides a OHKO on Alolan-Marowak / Mega-Gengar and can also counter them both, bar Focus Blast Mega-Gengar)

- Draco Meteor (Staple STAB, hits hard but also suffers due to the Spa drop)

- U-Turn (U-Turn completes the VoltTurn core with Tapu Koko)

Tapu Koko @ Life orb
Ability: Electric Surge
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Dazzling Gleam
- Thunderbolt
- U-turn / Volt Switch
- Grass Knot / Taunt

====>

Gyarados @ Gyaradosite
Ability: Intimidate
EVs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Dragon Dance
- Waterfall
- Earthquake
- Ice Fang / Substitute / Crunch

I'm using this core right now, and it's really cool.
Since Garchomp, Aegislash and Marowak-A are the most valuable checks for Koko, Gyarados is one of the best partner of the island guardian.
I wanna remind that Garchomp is bulk enough to make Dazzling Gleam a not sure OHKO, and if he's Scarf, be ready for an Earthquake right in the teeth. I know that hoping Garchomp takes the hit is a desperate action but ever better have an immunity in this case.
A combination of Flying type and Intimidate as a trait allows Gyarados to switch on Garchomp's Earthquake and go for a Dragon Dance that allow him to do substantial damage.
Mega Gyarados does not care about Aegislash STABs (but be careful about Sacred Sword, even if Aegislash usually run that move just for Glalie) and can hit him hard with Earthquake.
Water/Dark combination is perfect to counter Marowak and destroy it with a Waterfall or Crunch.
I prefer U-turn on Koko to keep up the momentum and avoiding that annoying Ground types or Lighting Rod users make Volt Switch an useless turn.
So when you think your opponent will go for checking Koko: click U-turn, spit on Koko's check and go for Gyarados. Then the choice is yours, go for destroying the check or, if your opponent wanna switch out, let's dance.
A boosted Gyarados is not a joke.

With these guys you can use:


Buzzwole @ Assault Vest
Ability: Beast Boost
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 4 SpD
Adamant Nature
- Hammer Arm
- Earthquake
- Leech Life / Lunge
- Thunder Punch / Ice Punch

Buzzwole is a great teammate for this core.
First, he is bulky and so Pokemon that still be a problem for Gyarados and Tapu Koko, like Muk-A with his Gunk Shot, are not a threat anymore.
252+ Atk Muk-Alola Gunk Shot vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Buzzwole: 139-165 (33.2 - 39.4%) -- 100% chance to 3HKO
252+ Atk Buzzwole Earthquake vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Muk-Alola: 318-376 (76.8 - 90.8%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Black Sludge recovery

As Earthquake is not a OHKO, you can also go first for Leech Life to recover your health a bit. Lunge works too since it drops opposing's attack, in both of cases, in the best conditions, Gunk Shot does not reach the 3HKO anymore.
Look at his muscles, his power spares no one, and Hammer Arm is also ready to punish annoying things like Porygon2.
252+ Atk Buzzwole Hammer Arm vs. 244 HP / 252+ Def Eviolite Porygon2: 194-230 (52.1 - 61.8%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

The offensive one is not a problem too, Massquito can take his Tri Attack at the top of its power and destroy the duck:
+1 252+ SpA Porygon2 Tri Attack vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Assault Vest Buzzwole: 204-241 (48.8 - 57.6%) -- 96.1% chance to 2HKO
252+ Atk Buzzwole Leech Life vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Eviolite Porygon2: 109-130 (29.1 - 34.7%) -- 10% chance to 3HKO
And in the next turn
252+ Atk Buzzwole Hammer Arm vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Eviolite Porygon2: 276-326 (73.7 - 87.1%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
 
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Tapu Koko @ Choice Scarf
Ability: Electric Surge
Timid Nature
EVs: 252 SpA / 252 Spe / 4 Dsp
- Dazzling Gleam
- Thunderbolt
- Volt Switch
- U-Turn



Garchomp @ Focus Sash
Ability: Rough Skin
Jolly Nature
EVs: 252 Atk / 252 Spe / 4 Def
- Outrage
- Earthquake
- Fire Fang / Poison Jab
- Swords Dance


Edit : More details about the core

The two top-tiers of BSS. The key here is to provided answers at any time of the game. Sash Chomp is a good Lead that makes holes for Tapu Koko as a RKiller. Tapu Koko is also a good pivot that provides a good path for Chomp as a cleaner.
Each mon covers common weaknesses of the others. Chomp deals with A-Marowak, Aegislash, A-Muk that blocks Koko. On the other hand, Koko is a good answer for Cloyster, even at +2. Scarf Koko also outspeed Scarf Chomp and +1 Mega-Gyarados. Koko has the opportunity to pivot on Chomp and A-Marowak with U-Turn. Scarf and both VoltTurn moves make this Tapu Koko the definition of an offensive pivot.
Chomp has its standard set, needing extra power of Outrage over Dragon Claw, and Earthquake as its other STAB (don't forget that EQ doesn't make contact). Fire Fang (~ this Chomp is on fire ~) or Poison Jab, depending on your teammates, and SD as a mandatory for a late game usage.
It's a simple but relevant offensive core.


Optionally, to complete this core, I want to submit Mega Gyarados.



Gyarados @ Gyaradosite
Ability: Intimidate
EVs: 252 Atk / 252 Spe / 4 HP
Jolly Nature
- Dragon Dance
- Waterfall
- Earthquake
- Crunch / Ice Fang

Why ? The main nemesis of this core is Mamoswine and MDos is an effective answer to that. This is the standard DD Mega Gyarados set, also checking Aegislash, A-Marowak and A-Muk.
The last slot depends on what you needs, I personally choose Ice Fang for MMence.

So shut up and take my core
 
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Theorymon

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Isn't a scarf on Koko redundant?
While it isn't common, it does let Tapu Koko outspeed some neat stuff, such as +1 Mega Gyarados and +2 Adamant Cloyster. It's one of those rare sets that can TOTALLY screw you up if you don't see it coming. Outspeeding Scarf chomp is pretty great too, since you sometimes see Scarf Garchomps switching in because they can take on Dazzling Gleam, and not expecting Tapu Koko to outspeed.
 

cant say

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Tapu Koko @ Shuca Berry / Electric Seed / Air Balloon / Focus Sash / Life Orb
Ability: Electric Surge
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
- Thunderbolt
- Dazzling Gleam
- Grass Knot / Hidden Power Ground
- Volt Switch


Salamence @ Salamencite
Ability: Intimidate
EVs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Double-Edge
- Earthquake
- Dragon Dance
- Roost / Substitute / Fire Blast / Facade

Just your standard Mence + Koko core. Mence + Raikou was probably my favourite to use last gen and I've tested a bit with this and it seems to work well. This core is more centred around Mence wth Koko supporting it by beating Dragons and Waters. Mence can switch into Ground moves though so there's that. The core's a bit weak to Mamoswine and Marowak-A but that's why using Porygon2 with them makes a really formidable trio.


Porygon2 @ Eviolite
Ability: Download / Trace
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD
Bold Nature
- Recover
- Shadow Ball
- Thunderbolt
- Ice Beam / Toxic
 
@ Focus Sash
Ability: Electric Surge
EVs: 4 HP / 4 Def / 248 SpA / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
- Thunderbolt
- Dazzling Gleam
- Hidden Power Ground
- Taunt

Standard Moves, barring Taunt that is mainly for Aurora Veil and setup mons. The Focus Sash is to beat opposing Sash Garchomp, +1 Mega Gyarados and to scout for a Choice Scarf/Sword Dance with no fear of being Earthquaked; it helps a lot even to deal with Rain teams. In this core it mainly acts as a Celesteela, Gyarados, and bulky Water-type check.




@ Assault Vest
Ability: Poison Touch
EVs: 164 HP / 92 Atk / 252 SpD
Brave Nature
- Knock Off
- Poison Jab
- Flamethrower
- Clear Smog

With Celesteela and Gyarados being checked by Tapu Koko, Alolan Muk becomes a great antimeta call, beating popular pokemon such as the tapus, threatening porygon2 with Knock Off, and being able to check Rain cores, Eeveepass teams and setup sweepers such as Mimikyu or Porygon-Z also thanks to Clear Smog. Flamethrower is mainly for Scizor (it always 2HKOs the 252 HP / 4 SpD set), and for Kartana (OHKOing it) that could otherwise threaten either Koko and Slowbro.


@ Rocky Helmet
Ability: Regenerator
EVs:252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpA
Relaxed Nature
- Scald / Flamethrower
- Ice Beam
- Trick Room
- Slack Off

It completes the Trick Room core with Muk-A, being able to face most of the pokemon that Koko and Muk can't face. Even if Slowbro could be seen as a poor man's Porygon2, not being as bulky on the special side, it still remains a fantastic check to Dragons , and ground-types such as Mamoswine or Rhyperior, while working better than p2 in the Mega Kangaskhan, Mega Metagross and Mega Lucario match up. Its Regenerator ability is also a great ability to have in order to maximize the chances to get Trick Room up in the late stages of the match.
 
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Thick Fat Azumarill

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Tapu Koko @ Electric Seed
Ability: Electric Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 192 HP / 20 Def / 116 SpA / 180 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Calm Mind
- Roost
- Thunderbolt
- Dazzling Gleam

Mamoswine @ Focus Sash
Ability: Oblivious
Level: 50
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Ice Shard
- Icicle Spear
- Earthquake
- Stealth Rock

This is a core that I've been using with some sucess. I was using a sash Koko before, but I got tired of being flinched by opposing Gyarados in matches that I could've won, so I made this spread for Koko. 192 HP and 20 Def along with the +1 from the Electric Seed makes Koko able to survive a lot of Earthquakes. 180 Speed with a Timid Nature outspeeds base 120's, and the rest go into Special Attack. Calm Mind makes Koko bulkier on the Special side and makes it hit harder, Roost is for realiable recovery, Thunderbolt is its most reliable STAB, and Dazzling Gleam hits Ground-Types, Grass-Types and Dragons.

Defensive calcs
+1 252 Atk Mold Breaker Gyarados-Mega Earthquake vs. +1 192 HP / 20 Def Tapu Koko: 146-172 (45.4 - 53.5%) -- 34.4% chance to 2HKO
+1 252+ Atk Salamence-Mega Earthquake vs. +1 192 HP / 20 Def Tapu Koko: 152-180 (47.3 - 56%) -- 79.3% chance to 2HKO
252+ Atk Life Orb Mamoswine Earthquake vs. +1 192 HP / 20 Def Tapu Koko: 182-218 (56.6 - 67.9%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 Atk Garchomp Earthquake vs. +1 192 HP / 20 Def Tapu Koko: 128-152 (39.8 - 47.3%) -- guaranteed 3HKO
+2 252 Atk Lucario-Mega Earthquake vs. +1 192 HP / 20 Def Tapu Koko: 184-218 (57.3 - 67.9%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
+2 252 Atk Adaptability Lucario-Mega Bullet Punch vs. +1 192 HP / 20 Def Tapu Koko: 74-88 (23 - 27.4%) -- 54.3% chance to 4HKO
+2 252+ Atk Cloyster Icicle Spear (5 hits) vs. +1 192 HP / 20 Def Tapu Koko: 140-170 (43.6 - 52.9%) -- approx. 9.4% chance to 2HKO


A partner that works well with this set is Mamoswine. It and Tapu Koko can deal with each others checks pretty well, as Koko deals with the bulky Waters, Gyarados and Celesteela, while Mamoswine deals with opoosing Ground-Types, Muk and Marowak, and provides Stealth Rock support, which helps Koko nab KOs more easily. A third pokemon that complements the core is Porygon2, being able to take a lot of hits and preserve Mamo's sash or Koko's Electric Seed if needed.
 
Tapu Koko @ Focus Sash
Ability: Electric Surge
Timid Nature
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 Def / 252 Spe
Level 50
- Calm Mind
- Taunt
- Thunderbolt
- Dazzling Gleam

Mudsdale @ Assault Vest
Ability: Stamina
Adamant Nature
EVs: 252 HP / 188 Atk / 64 Def / 4 SpD
- Close Combat
- Heavy Slam
- Earthquake
- Rock Tomb

Mudsdale works really well being able to check Marowak-A and Koko destroys Celesteela being able to Taunt it and prevent the Sub or Protect or Leech Seed and OHKO it. Mudsdale is also able to take a Earthquake from ScarfChomp and 2HKO it and get a plus 2 boost or plus 1 boost from Stamina if Garchomp uses Outrage or Earthquake.
 
Offensive VoltTurn!

Tapu Koko @ Focus Sash
Ability: Electric Surge
Level: 50
EVs: 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
Timid Nature

- Volt Switch (A harder hitting pivot option which you can abuse if there's no notable Electric immunity on the opponent's team)

- Thunderbolt (Staple STAB, deals with bulky flying / water mons such which Mega-Metagross has trouble with such as Celesteela and Mega-Gyarados)

- U-turn (Perfect lure for Alolan-Marowak as you can predict the switch and then have a good chance to OHKO with Mega-Metagross' Earthquake)

- Dazzling Gleam (Whittles down opposing dragon threats including Garchomp and Mega-Salamence, and can provide a OHKO on Hydreigon)


Metagross-Mega @ Metagrossite
Ability: Tough Claws
Level: 50
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Jolly Nature

- Zen Headbutt (Staple STAB, doesn't deal with particularly much that Koko can't handle (bar Mega-Venusaur and Amoonguss in post-bank) but is necessary for general coverage and sheer damage output)

- Meteor Mash (Breaks Porygon2 and Tapu Bulu which Tapu Koko can't do)

- Earthquake (Deals with some Steel-type threats to Koko including Aegislash, Magnezone and Alolan-Malowak)

- Bullet Punch (Priority option commonly used for revenge killing faster threats such as opposing Tapu Koko, Mega Gengar, and Pheromosa. Works in near perfect synergy with Tapu Koko as Electric Terrain can override Psychic Terrain, making Bullet Punch very abusing against Choice Scarf Tapu Lele)

One of my most simple, yet amazing offensive cores I've ever used. Tapu Koko and Mega-Metagross have absolutely beautiful offensive synergy and can cover each other's weaknesses. Sash Koko lets it take a hit from threats to the core including Scarf Garchomp / Mega-Gyarados / Mega-Salamence / Mega-Gengar, to which Koko can retaliate back heavily. While it can't OHKO either of these threats with STAB options, Mega-Metagross plays a pivotal role here by finishing all of these threats with Bullet Punch.
252 SpA Tapu Koko Dazzling Gleam vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Garchomp: 128-152 (69.5 - 82.6%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 Atk Tough Claws Mega Metagross Bullet Punch vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Garchomp: 51-61 (27.7 - 33.1%) -- guaranteed 4HKO

252 SpA Tapu Koko Thunderbolt vs. 0 HP / 0 SpD Mega Gyarados in Electric Terrain: 152-180 (89.4 - 105.8%) -- 37.5% chance to OHKO
252 Atk Tough Claws Mega Metagross Bullet Punch vs. 0 HP / 4 Def Mega Gyarados: 22-27 (12.9 - 15.8%) -- possible 7HKO

252 SpA Tapu Koko Dazzling Gleam vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Mega Salamence: 122-146 (71.3 - 85.3%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 Atk Tough Claws Mega Metagross Bullet Punch vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Mega Salamence: 40-48 (23.3 - 28%) -- 76.4% chance to 4HKO

252 SpA Tapu Koko Thunderbolt vs. 0 HP / 0 SpD Mega Gengar in Electric Terrain: 99-117 (73.3 - 86.6%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 Atk Tough Claws Mega Metagross Bullet Punch vs. 0 HP / 4 Def Mega Gengar: 58-69 (42.9 - 51.1%) -- 3.5% chance to 2HKO
Naturally, this is not a once sided relationship. Mega-Metagross provides a poison immunity which Tapu Koko appreciates, whilst also providing general defensive support with a spectacular 9 resistances, coupled with 80 / 150 / 110 bulk which makes for a really fat Pokemon in general. Metagross breaks defensive mons which Koko often can't get past including Porygon2, while Koko does the same for Metagross for pokemon like Celesteela / Slowbro.

And to complete the core we add in Hydreigon! Perfect Mega-Gengar and Alolan-Marowak counter due to typing, whilst levitate lets it switch in against choice locked Garchomp and other Pokemon carrying ground coverage. While Tapu Koko and Mega-Metagross naturally run the show, Hydreigon is the glue which keeps this all together, covering for weaknesses to the core whilst providing great speed control, coverage, and pivot.


Hyderigon @ Choice Scarf
Ability: Levitate
EVS: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature

- Fire Blast (Notably hits Mega-Scizor which can threaten the core, but also hits Celesteela / Tapu Bulu)

- Dark Pulse (Provides a OHKO on Alolan-Marowak / Mega-Gengar and can also counter them both, bar Focus Blast Mega-Gengar)

- Draco Meteor (Staple STAB, hits hard but also suffers due to the Spa drop)

- U-Turn (U-Turn completes the VoltTurn core with Tapu Koko)
 
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Tapu Koko @ Life orb
Ability: Electric Surge
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Dazzling Gleam
- Thunderbolt
- U-turn / Volt Switch
- Grass Knot / Taunt

====>

Gyarados @ Gyaradosite
Ability: Intimidate
EVs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Dragon Dance
- Waterfall
- Earthquake
- Ice Fang / Substitute / Crunch

I'm using this core right now, and it's really cool.
Since Garchomp, Aegislash and Marowak-A are the most valuable checks for Koko, Gyarados is one of the best partner of the island guardian.
I wanna remind that Garchomp is bulk enough to make Dazzling Gleam a not sure OHKO, and if he's Scarf, be ready for an Earthquake right in the teeth. I know that hoping Garchomp takes the hit is a desperate action but ever better have an immunity in this case.
A combination of Flying type and Intimidate as a trait allows Gyarados to switch on Garchomp's Earthquake and go for a Dragon Dance that allow him to do substantial damage.
Mega Gyarados does not care about Aegislash STABs (but be careful about Sacred Sword, even if Aegislash usually run that move just for Glalie) and can hit him hard with Earthquake.
Water/Dark combination is perfect to counter Marowak and destroy it with a Waterfall or Crunch.
I prefer U-turn on Koko to keep up the momentum and avoiding that annoying Ground types or Lighting Rod users make Volt Switch an useless turn.
So when you think your opponent will go for checking Koko: click U-turn, spit on Koko's check and go for Gyarados. Then the choice is yours, go for destroying the check or, if your opponent wanna switch out, let's dance.
A boosted Gyarados is not a joke.

With these guys you can use:


Buzzwole @ Assault Vest
Ability: Beast Boost
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 4 SpD
Adamant Nature
- Hammer Arm
- Earthquake
- Leech Life / Lunge
- Thunder Punch / Ice Punch

Buzzwole is a great teammate for this core.
First, he is bulky and so Pokemon that still be a problem for Gyarados and Tapu Koko, like Muk-A with his Gunk Shot, are not a threat anymore.
252+ Atk Muk-Alola Gunk Shot vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Buzzwole: 139-165 (33.2 - 39.4%) -- 100% chance to 3HKO
252+ Atk Buzzwole Earthquake vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Muk-Alola: 318-376 (76.8 - 90.8%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Black Sludge recovery

As Earthquake is not a OHKO, you can also go first for Leech Life to recover your health a bit. Lunge works too since it drops opposing's attack, in both of cases, in the best conditions, Gunk Shot does not reach the 3HKO anymore.
Look at his muscles, his power spares no one, and Hammer Arm is also ready to punish annoying things like Porygon2.
252+ Atk Buzzwole Hammer Arm vs. 244 HP / 252+ Def Eviolite Porygon2: 194-230 (52.1 - 61.8%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

The offensive one is not a problem too, Massquito can take his Tri Attack at the top of its power and destroy the duck:
+1 252+ SpA Porygon2 Tri Attack vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Assault Vest Buzzwole: 204-241 (48.8 - 57.6%) -- 96.1% chance to 2HKO
252+ Atk Buzzwole Leech Life vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Eviolite Porygon2: 109-130 (29.1 - 34.7%) -- 10% chance to 3HKO
And in the next turn
252+ Atk Buzzwole Hammer Arm vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Eviolite Porygon2: 276-326 (73.7 - 87.1%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
 
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Theorymon

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Just a reminder: you guys got 24 hours till I start the polls. Also, while I set this thread up with 2 Pokemon cores in mind, since I din't have time to enforce that this week, I'll let it slide for now!
 
Also, while I set this thread up with 2 Pokemon cores in mind, since I din't have time to enforce that this week, I'll let it slide for now!
Lol, I was on the way to ask clarifications about this.
'Cause Vif-Argent edited his post adding Mega Gyarados after I posted my core (Koko + M Gyara), so I forced to add another mon.
It's not this the problem, I'm not a numskull who can't find another teammate, but it's a malus for me 'cause a Tapu Koko + M Gyara + Chomp will be always better than a Koko + M Gyara + Buzzwole. I lost at the start.

Example. In the future, if we have to do a core with Marowak-Alolan:
Tizio does Marowak + Celesteela, cuz Marowak covers electric-type moves, Celesteela ground-type ones, etc.
Caio does Marowak + Primarina. Primarina beats down Pokémon like Inceniroar which is a great switch-in against Marowak-A.

Tizio thinks that maybe Marowak + Primarina is better than a core with Celesteela, and so he edits his post with Marowak + Celesteela + Primarina, and so the core is better than Caio's one.
Caio can't do anything. If he add Celesteela he "lost" anyway cuz is the same of Tizio's core, and Tizio posted before him. Any Pokémon he tries have 80% chance to be worse than Celesteela, and I think you understand what's the point.

I'm not complaining about this. I'm not saying that I would win this round, and sure I'm not saying that Vif-Argent cheated (even if, y'know man? I'm watching you like this -just joking lol) or should delete Mega Gyarados, but if a guy can edit his post with choices of other users, he takes an advantage while other users get a malus.
 
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I add MDos to my core since I see people posting 3-mons cores, and that it's the natural answer to the threats of my Koko-Chomp pair (Celesteela too).
It's the same as yours cause it's M-Dos. Despite having only the same set, it still the same beast.

I want to note that I don't steal any core. If it's a problem for the comp, don't take my M-Dos into account and just consider Chomp.
Also, consider it's just a third member. Your partner is Gyarados, and Chomp is mine :)
 
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Lou

going solo
is a Smogon Media Contributor Alumnus
Ok. I'm really bad at this but i'll try it.


Tapu Koko @ Life Orb
Ability: Electric Surge
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Hidden Power [Ice]
- Volt Switch
- Thunderbolt
- U-Turn

This is the tipic offensive set. There's no much to explain about this set. Due to Tapu Koko's speed tier, HP [Ice] can checks or revenge kill some ground threatens like Gliscor and Landorus-T. Volt Switch is really common in this set, its hurts some bulky Water-types Pokémon and give us a momentum. Tbolt is our main STAB Attack, also is boosted by Electric Surge. U-Turn can give us a momentum too, and also we can run it if the target is immune to Electric-type moves.

If we do "!weak Tapu Koko" in the battle simulator, we can see Tapu Koko's weaknesses (Poison and Ground-types Pokémon). After to look for a good Steel-type Pokémon to cover the Poison-type weakness, i chose.. Scizor Mega!


Scizor-Mega @ Scizorite
Ability: Technician
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Swords Dance
- Bullet Punch
- Superpower
- Bug Bite

I chose a Offensive Swords Dance set.

Swords Dance is obvious. Bullet Punch is our unique priority move and our main STAB attack, it can be really helpful sometimes. Superpower can help us to check some Steel-types Pokémon that are a threat for the team such as Heatran. Bug Bite is our second STAB attack, its really good to check Dark and Psychic-types Pokémon.

Scizor has only ONE weakness. Fire.

For this, Rotom-W has been elected to cover that weakness.

Rotom-Wash @ Leftovers
Ability: Levitate
EVs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 Spe
Bold Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Volt Switch
- Will-O-Wisp
- Hydro Pump
- Pain Split

Volt Switch complete the VoltTurn core beside Koko. WoW is helpful to cripple Physical attackers like Muk-Alola and others threats. Hydro Pump can check and kill some Ground-types Pokémon, which are a threat for Koko. Pain Split can help us to recover some health. Also, Rotom-W has only one weakness, the Grass-types Pokémon, but Scizor-M can

That's all. I hope you like it~
 
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Theorymon

Have a wonderful day, wahoo!
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In light of the confusion (which is totally on me, sorry about that!), I'm going to give this thread an extension of One day! I'm also gonna highlight people who didn't do 3 mon cores in case they want to (though its not required): Ultima-Z, dogknees and Lou
 

Theorymon

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is a Site Content Manageris a Forum Moderatoris a Community Contributoris a Smogon Discord Contributoris a Pokemon Researcheris a Top Contributoris a Top Smogon Media Contributoris a Social Media Contributor Alumnusis a Community Leader Alumnusis a CAP Contributor Alumnusis a Battle Simulator Moderator Alumnus
Alright folks, its time to vote! I put all of the prebank cores in the OP, and those are the ones to vote on! Just post here on what your favorite core is. I'd like for you to explain why as well to further foster discussion.

Voting will end on Thursday, January 19th, at 10 PM EST!
 
I really like solerme's core, it's very original, but Cant Say's one is the best, Koko + MMence is something that just Mamoswine and aegislash can handle, but Porygon2 is here, so..

Yeah, I vote Cant Say.
 
Voting Thick Fat Azumarill. It was definitely a different type of core, but still works. Creative stuff like that in Battle Spot is what makes the metagame interesting, so there's my vote
 
can't say
Tapu Koko is a really good offensive Pokemon and Mence completes it's offensive abilities the best imo, with p2 adding the needed defensive capabilities. I didn't have time to post a rain+koko core sadly :c


tbh i'm just waiting for the day i can use Mence/Raikou again
 

Theorymon

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is a Site Content Manageris a Forum Moderatoris a Community Contributoris a Smogon Discord Contributoris a Pokemon Researcheris a Top Contributoris a Top Smogon Media Contributoris a Social Media Contributor Alumnusis a Community Leader Alumnusis a CAP Contributor Alumnusis a Battle Simulator Moderator Alumnus
Since not that many people have voted, I'm thinking about extending this to Saturday. Hopefully we can get some more activity here!
 

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