[OVERVIEW]
* Charizard's Mega Evolutions are some of the best Pokemon in the OU tier.
* Mega Charizard X has fantastic offensive coverage with Dragon- and Fire-type STAB moves, only failing to break a specific few Pokemon that resist the combination and certain physically bulky Pokemon.
* This coverage combined with a high Attack stat, which is bolstered by Tough Claws, and reliable recovery option in Roost makes Mega Charizard X a fantastic Dragon Dance sweeper.
* Its typing and natural bulk allow it to set up on Electric-types and a variety of other common Pokemon.
* Mega Charizard X's bulk, typing, reliable recovery, and access to Will-O-Wisp give it another option in a disruptive defensive set.
* However, a Stealth Rock weakness limits Mega Charizard X's ability to switch around freely.
* Two of its best checks, Landorus-T and Tapu Fini, are some of the most common Pokemon in the tier.
* Mega Charizard Y is more straightforward, setting up sun with its ability to make its special Fire-type attacks very powerful.
* Mega Charizard Y also has good coverage options to deal with Pokemon that are commonly used to tank Fire-type moves and reliable recovery to stay a consistent threat throughout the match, allowing it to break down balance teams.
* Having a quadruple Stealth Rock weakness even after Mega Evolution and an average Speed stat limits Mega Charizard Y's effectiveness against offensive teams and mandates heavy support.
[SET]
name: Dragon Dance
move 1: Dragon Dance
move 2: Dragon Claw
move 3: Flare Blitz
move 4: Roost
item: Charizardite X
ability: Blaze
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
* Dragon Dance boosts Mega Charizard X's Speed stat ahead of many common Choice Scarf users and makes it very powerful, allowing it to sweep once the few threats that can handle its sheer power are taken care of.
* Dragon Claw is a reliable Dragon-type STAB attack with no drawbacks and fantastic neutral coverage.
* Flare Blitz eviscerates the Steel- and Fairy-types that do not mind Dragon Claw and is absurdly strong in general, though the recoil is a notable drawback.
* Roost keeps Mega Charizard X healthy to make setting up easier overall and the process of sweeping more reliable, mitigating revenge kills and Flare Blitz recoil.
* Thunder Punch can replace Roost to hit Tapu Fini, Toxapex, and Mantine super effectively, even receiving a Tough Claws boost to make it especially powerful.
* Earthquake covers Heatran, Tyranitar, and Toxapex in addition to OHKOing Alolan Marowak.
Set Details
========
* Full Attack and Speed investment maximizes Mega Charizard X's sweeping potential.
* A Jolly nature is required to outrun Choice Scarf Tapu Lele and Landorus-T.
* Some bulk can be run if you just want to outspeed Choice Scarf Tapu Lele (40 HP / 252 Atk / 216 Spe), but it's otherwise undesirable to drop Speed for bulk because sweeping becomes harder.
* Blaze is preferred over Solar Power on the off-chance that you switch in Charizard while sun is up to avoid taking extra damage for no reason.
Usage Tips
========
* Set up on Pokemon that cannot really threaten Mega Charizard X, such as Tapu Koko and Mega Scizor.
* It is important not to sustain too much damage while setting up because Flare Blitz recoil and priority could lead to Mega Charizard X's demise with prior damage, so prioritize using Roost and play conservatively in most cases. Avoid switching into Stealth Rock if possible.
* Mega Charizard X can be used to check offensive Electric-types, Rotom-W, Mega Scizor, and some other Pokemon, but be careful because you want to keep it healthy.
* Avoid status at all costs, as a paralyzed, badly poisoned, or sleeping Mega Charizard X will have trouble sweeping anything.
* Recognize that most players will make plays to prevent Mega Charizard X from setting up and sweeping. When you know this, you can hammer switches with Mega Charizard X's attacks and punch holes in opposing teams to weaken them for a sweep later in the match.
* Try to preserve Mega Charizard X in the early-game, but find an opportunity to Mega Evolve as soon as possible so that it does not lose half its HP if it must switch into Stealth Rock.
* Occasionally, it may be worth not Mega Evolving to retain Mega Charizard X's Ground immunity, avoid a Dugtrio trap, or prevent being poisoned by Toxic Spikes, although those situations are rare.
Team Options
========
* Support to remove Stealth Rock, which can be provided by Pokemon such as Latios, Tapu Fini, Excadrill, Pheromosa, or Zapdos, is mandatory.
* Something to bring into Landorus-T when it inevitably switches into Mega Charizard X, such as Rotom-W, Celesteela, or Buzzwole, is necessary. There are many options to fit the bill, so just ensure it will not create trouble for you. Hydro Vortex Scolipede can alternatively lure and severely weaken or KO it.
* Something to put pressure on or lure Tapu Fini, such as Tapu Koko or Tapu Bulu, is helpful.
* A strong general breaker to soften up teams, such as Greninja, Tapu Lele, or Hoopa-U, can help Mega Charizard X sweep.
* A way to deal with Heatran is necessary. Some options include Dugtrio to trap, offensive Ground-types like Garchomp and Zygarde, or a lure like Surf Latios.
* Dual screens support is more gimmicky and should not be considered the norm, but Dragon Dance Mega Charizard X is a good sweeper for dual screen teams in general, so that type of support is worth mentioning. Alolan Ninetales with Aurora Veil achieves the same effect.
[SET]
name: Drought Wallbreaker
move 1: Fire Blast / Flamethrower
move 2: Solar Beam
move 3: Focus Blast
move 4: Roost
item: Charizardite Y
ability: Blaze
nature: Timid / Modest
evs: 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
* Fire Blast is an absurdly powerful STAB attack, plowing through all except bulky foes that resist it.
* Flamethrower is a bit weaker, though still more than strong enough, and is a much more consistent option because it has higher PP and perfect accuracy.
* Solar Beam covers Water-types like Tapu Fini, Keldeo, and Manaphy. It is worth noting that it becomes an unviable option when sun is not up, though Mega Charizard Y is usually not in for long enough to make that an issue.
* Focus Blast covers Heatran and Tyranitar.
Set Details
========
* Full Special Attack investment ensures that Mega Charizard Y can wallbreak effectively as possible.
* Full Speed investment with a Timid nature is preferred to outrun Tapu Lele and Kyurem-B that run a Speed-boosting nature, as well as tying with Manaphy.
* Modest is viable too if the few threats that Timid is required to outrun can be adequately covered, especially if running the weaker Fire-type STAB option in Flamethrower.
* Blaze is preferred over Solar Power on the off-chance that you switch in Charizard while sun is up to avoid taking extra damage for no reason.
Usage Tips
========
* Be careful bringing this in; VoltTurn support or switching in on a resisted hit is usually the best way.
* Avoid switching into Stealth Rock at all costs.
* Usually, throwing out Mega Charizard Y's Fire-type STAB move is an effective option because it is so strong and even does good damage to Pokemon that resist it.
* Sometimes, though, making power plays with coverage moves is good, but you should keep all of their available switch-in options and the risk of a missed prediction in mind before doing so. This set does not require big plays to be effective.
* Use Roost to stay healthy, especially because you should be prepared to switch into Stealth Rock if absolutely necessary.
* Keep in mind the style of team you are fighting. Mega Charizard Y is often a wincon against balance because of its breaking capabilities, for instance, but may be less effective against offense because it is not difficult to revenge kill.
Team Options
========
* Some method of Stealth Rock removal, such as Defog or Rapid Spin from the likes of Tapu Fini, Latios, and Excadrill is absolutely necessary.
* Pursuit support from the likes of Tyranitar and Weavile to take out Latios is helpful.
* VoltTurn support from a pivots like Rotom-W and Landorus-T helps Mega Charizard Y get in safely and start wreaking havoc, especially against offensive teams where it has limited opportunities to switch in.
* A good switch-in to Tapu Koko, a common way to revenge kill Mega Charizard Y, is absolutely necessary. Try a bulky Grass-type, such as Ferrothorn, Amoonguss, or Tangrowth, or Magnezone.
* Dugtrio gets rid of Heatran and Tyranitar effectively. It also has the potential to trap and KO Chansey with Reversal.
* A Pokemon to lure in and KO Toxapex and Mantine, such as Greninja with Extrasensory or Hidden Power Electric, can be helpful, as can an Electric-type partner like Tapu Koko to put pressure on them.
* Any Pokemon, primarily Keldeo and strong physical attackers such as Terrakion and Tapu Bulu, that can put offensive pressure on Chansey is greatly appreciated.
* Other common switch-ins such as Zygarde and Garchomp should be accounted for when teambuilding. Landorus-T is a good answer to both.
[SET]
name: Bulky Will-O-Wisp
move 1: Will-O-Wisp
move 2: Roost
move 3: Flare Blitz
move 4: Earthquake / Dragon Claw
item: Charizardite X
ability: Blaze
nature: Impish
evs: 248 HP / 16 Def / 72 SpD / 172 Spe
Moves
========
* Will-O-Wisp cripples physical attackers with a burn and is an effective lure for certain common Mega Charizard X switch-ins, most notably Landorus-T.
* Roost keeps Mega Charizard X healthy.
* Flare Blitz is a definitive answer to Steel-types and in general packs a serious punch.
* Earthquake prevents this set from being walled by Heatran and Magearna, among other Steel- and Fairy-types.
* Alternatively, Dragon Claw is a basic STAB attack with good neutral coverage and no drawbacks.
* The combination of Dragon Claw and Earthquake can also work, though the sheer power and inability to KO Steel-types outright is missed.
Set Details
========
* Enough Speed investment is run to outspeed Timid Heatran.
* The HP and Defense investment with an Impish nature prevent Mega Metagross from 2HKOing Mega Charizard X with Zen Headbutt.
* The remainder is placed in Special Defense to add a bit of a cushion against Tapu Koko and other special threats.
* If desired, the EVs in Special Defense can be shifted to Defense, as that investment isn't too necessary, though there isn't a huge reason to do so.
* Without Earthquake, there is no reason to outspeed Timid Heatran, so enough investment for Jolly Tapu Bulu (152 EVs) will suffice.
* If you aren't too concerned with outspeeding Heatran or Tapu Bulu, it is possible to drop all the way to 108 Speed EVs, but these threats are significant, so you should have a good reason to do so.
* An Adamant nature with a small amount of Attack investment is also plausible if you want some more offensive capabilities, but the defensive utility of Impish is generally preferred.
* Blaze is preferred over Solar Power on the off-chance that you switch in Charizard while sun is up to avoid taking extra damage for no reason.
Usage Tips
========
* Switch this Mega Charizard X into Pokemon it checks, such as Tapu Koko, Mega Scizor, Tapu Bulu, Celesteela, and Magearna.
* Use burn to cripple Landorus-T that Mega Charizard X lures in, as well as physical attackers in general.
* Bear in mind that the passive damage of Will-O-Wisp is pretty meager, so try to avoid using this against non-physical attackers if you plan to wear them down with status have a Pokemon that can use Toxic, for instance.
* Use Flare Blitz if you want to put meaningful dents in the opposing team, especially if anticipating a special attacker to switch in, but watch recoil damage.
* Use Earthquake to hit Heatran and for its neutral coverage on Water-types as necessary; they are straightforward options.
* Dragon Claw is just a neutral coverage option and should generally be used similarly to Flare Blitz, except that it requires less caution because it does not have recoil.
* In general, you may want to avoid revealing Mega Charizard X's full moveset early on because this set can be a pretty effective lure if you play it correctly.
* Try not to be predictable all the time, as a crucial aspect of this set is luring and disrupting the opposing team. For example, you can use Will-O-Wisp twice in a row if you predict a switch or make a power play with an attack. Just don't play too linear.
* Generally, watch out with switching into Stealth Rock and try to stay as healthy as possible with Roost.
Team Options
========
* This set mostly fits in the context of defensive cores on balance teams.
* Stealth Rock removal is an absolute necessity and can come from a Pokemon like Skarmory, Tapu Fini, Zapdos, and Mantine.
* Partners that can switch into Dragon- and Ground-type attacks, such as Celesteela, Tangrowth, Landorus-T, and Tapu Bulu are good choices.
* This set doesn't really require a ton of support. In fact, its primary drawback is that it prevents you from using another good defensive Mega Pokemon, such as Mega Venusaur or Mega Sableye, that may be more beneficial to the team in general. That does not, however, mean this set cannot be effective.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
========
* A Swords Dance set with Roost and STAB attacks on Mega Charizard X can be run for a more dedicated breaker, boasting absurd power.
* Outrage is a plausible option on Dragon Dance sets for the sheer absurdity of its power, but the lock-in effect makes Mega Charizard X significantly less flexible and thus reduces its overall effectiveness.
* A set with Roost and three attacks to maximize Mega Charizard X's coverage while making use of its reliable recovery can be effective, but lack of a setup move makes it less stressful for teams to deal with overall.
* Tailwind + Swords Dance is a more gimmicky offensive Mega Charizard X set that gets the absurd power of Swords Dance and a Speed boost from Tailwind; the main drawbacks are that it's very hard to set up and lacks longevity.
* Mega Charizard Y could run Earthquake if the player really wants a more reliable option to deal with Heatran and an OHKO on Nihilego, but sacrificing the OHKO on Tyranitar and overall power that Focus Blast possesses makes it a worse option overall.
* Mega Charizard Y can run a defensive set with Flamethrower / Earthquake / Will-O-Wisp / Roost and Special Defense investment, similar to the one Mega Charizard X uses, but a quadruple Stealth Rock weakness makes it too unreliable defensively to be a consistent option for teams.
Checks and Counters
========
**Scouting**: There is no true counter to Charizard, as pretty much no Pokemon actually beats both Mega Evolutions. However, there are methods of dealing with it once you determine which Mega Evolution you are facing. Looking at the opposing team composition, though unreliable, can go a long way toward easing that process. Pursuit support is often a tell-tale sign of a Mega Charizard Y team, for instance, as is a team that lacks another balance breaker. If you see a Charizard on a heavily offensive team, Dragon Dance Mega Charizard X is generally a good bet, and if you see a Mega Charizard X on a more defensive team, it is probably the Will-O-Wisp set. Caution is of the essence, though, so try to be as safe as possible and not risk too much before your opponent's choice of Mega Evolution is revealed.
**Stealth Rock**: Stealth Rock, which should be present on every competitive team, is a massive detriment to any Charizard. Charizard and Mega Charizard Y have a 4x weakness while Mega Charizard X has a 2x weakness, limiting their opportunities to switch in significantly.
**Revenge Killers**: Terrakion, Garchomp, Nihilego, and Latios are good examples of a Choice Scarf users to prevent a Mega Charizard X sweep. Excadrill in sand is another good choice, Choice Scarf Keldeo and Pheromosa can also help with a weakened Mega Charizard, as can priority moves. Focus Sash Dugtrio is another good option to check it by trapping and KOing with Earthquake. As for Mega Charizard Y, Pokemon that can outspeed and KO it like Nihilego (generally a great offensive check to it), Tapu Koko, Choice Scarf Tyranitar, and Terrakion are good answers. If weakened, most other Pokemon that outspeed it, such as Greninja, Mega Metagross, and Keldeo, can revenge kill.
**Status**: Status dooms Mega Charizard X's sweeping potential, especially paralysis. Toxic can also help neuter its longevity, though it may not prevent a sweep on its own. Toxic on Mega Charizard Y forces it to use Roost more often, limiting its effectiveness as a breaker because it cannot throw out attacks as often, and paralysis makes it even easier to revenge kill.
**Bulky Ground-types**: Rocky Helmet Landorus-T is an incredible check to Mega Charizard X, though the less common Will-O-Wisp sets can cripple it. Other variants can also be successful checks, but they cannot really switch into an attack that well. Hippowdon is a solid counter, albeit a less viable Pokemon overall than it once was.
**Water-types**: Tapu Fini, Slowbro, and Toxapex are decent answers to Mega Charizard X. Toxapex and Mantine handle Mega Charizard Y. Pelipper is also a fantastic counter, though not exactly easy to fit on teams, because rain weakens Fire Blast significantly and locks Mega Charizard Y into Solar Beam's charge turn, making that move a serious risk to use. A special mention should be given to Gyarados, which is not only a bulky Water-type but is also a great offensive check to Mega Charizard Y, able to tank a hit and set up on it.
**Dragon-types**: For Mega Charizard Y, Latios, Garchomp, Zygarde, and Salamence are good checks. Mega Charizard X has trouble switching into Focus Blast but can help in conjunction with another answer.
**Chansey**: Chansey is a perfect counter to Mega Charizard Y, sponging all of its attacks with ease and recovering any lost HP with Soft-Boiled, which makes it a consistent answer throughout the match.
**Heatran**: Heatran counters all non-Earthquake Mega Charizard X.
* Charizard's Mega Evolutions are some of the best Pokemon in the OU tier.
* Mega Charizard X has fantastic offensive coverage with Dragon- and Fire-type STAB moves, only failing to break a specific few Pokemon that resist the combination and certain physically bulky Pokemon.
* This coverage combined with a high Attack stat, which is bolstered by Tough Claws, and reliable recovery option in Roost makes Mega Charizard X a fantastic Dragon Dance sweeper.
* Its typing and natural bulk allow it to set up on Electric-types and a variety of other common Pokemon.
* Mega Charizard X's bulk, typing, reliable recovery, and access to Will-O-Wisp give it another option in a disruptive defensive set.
* However, a Stealth Rock weakness limits Mega Charizard X's ability to switch around freely.
* Two of its best checks, Landorus-T and Tapu Fini, are some of the most common Pokemon in the tier.
* Mega Charizard Y is more straightforward, setting up sun with its ability to make its special Fire-type attacks very powerful.
* Mega Charizard Y also has good coverage options to deal with Pokemon that are commonly used to tank Fire-type moves and reliable recovery to stay a consistent threat throughout the match, allowing it to break down balance teams.
* Having a quadruple Stealth Rock weakness even after Mega Evolution and an average Speed stat limits Mega Charizard Y's effectiveness against offensive teams and mandates heavy support.
[SET]
name: Dragon Dance
move 1: Dragon Dance
move 2: Dragon Claw
move 3: Flare Blitz
move 4: Roost
item: Charizardite X
ability: Blaze
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
* Dragon Dance boosts Mega Charizard X's Speed stat ahead of many common Choice Scarf users and makes it very powerful, allowing it to sweep once the few threats that can handle its sheer power are taken care of.
* Dragon Claw is a reliable Dragon-type STAB attack with no drawbacks and fantastic neutral coverage.
* Flare Blitz eviscerates the Steel- and Fairy-types that do not mind Dragon Claw and is absurdly strong in general, though the recoil is a notable drawback.
* Roost keeps Mega Charizard X healthy to make setting up easier overall and the process of sweeping more reliable, mitigating revenge kills and Flare Blitz recoil.
* Thunder Punch can replace Roost to hit Tapu Fini, Toxapex, and Mantine super effectively, even receiving a Tough Claws boost to make it especially powerful.
* Earthquake covers Heatran, Tyranitar, and Toxapex in addition to OHKOing Alolan Marowak.
Set Details
========
* Full Attack and Speed investment maximizes Mega Charizard X's sweeping potential.
* A Jolly nature is required to outrun Choice Scarf Tapu Lele and Landorus-T.
* Some bulk can be run if you just want to outspeed Choice Scarf Tapu Lele (40 HP / 252 Atk / 216 Spe), but it's otherwise undesirable to drop Speed for bulk because sweeping becomes harder.
* Blaze is preferred over Solar Power on the off-chance that you switch in Charizard while sun is up to avoid taking extra damage for no reason.
Usage Tips
========
* Set up on Pokemon that cannot really threaten Mega Charizard X, such as Tapu Koko and Mega Scizor.
* It is important not to sustain too much damage while setting up because Flare Blitz recoil and priority could lead to Mega Charizard X's demise with prior damage, so prioritize using Roost and play conservatively in most cases. Avoid switching into Stealth Rock if possible.
* Mega Charizard X can be used to check offensive Electric-types, Rotom-W, Mega Scizor, and some other Pokemon, but be careful because you want to keep it healthy.
* Avoid status at all costs, as a paralyzed, badly poisoned, or sleeping Mega Charizard X will have trouble sweeping anything.
* Recognize that most players will make plays to prevent Mega Charizard X from setting up and sweeping. When you know this, you can hammer switches with Mega Charizard X's attacks and punch holes in opposing teams to weaken them for a sweep later in the match.
* Try to preserve Mega Charizard X in the early-game, but find an opportunity to Mega Evolve as soon as possible so that it does not lose half its HP if it must switch into Stealth Rock.
* Occasionally, it may be worth not Mega Evolving to retain Mega Charizard X's Ground immunity, avoid a Dugtrio trap, or prevent being poisoned by Toxic Spikes, although those situations are rare.
Team Options
========
* Support to remove Stealth Rock, which can be provided by Pokemon such as Latios, Tapu Fini, Excadrill, Pheromosa, or Zapdos, is mandatory.
* Something to bring into Landorus-T when it inevitably switches into Mega Charizard X, such as Rotom-W, Celesteela, or Buzzwole, is necessary. There are many options to fit the bill, so just ensure it will not create trouble for you. Hydro Vortex Scolipede can alternatively lure and severely weaken or KO it.
* Something to put pressure on or lure Tapu Fini, such as Tapu Koko or Tapu Bulu, is helpful.
* A strong general breaker to soften up teams, such as Greninja, Tapu Lele, or Hoopa-U, can help Mega Charizard X sweep.
* A way to deal with Heatran is necessary. Some options include Dugtrio to trap, offensive Ground-types like Garchomp and Zygarde, or a lure like Surf Latios.
* Dual screens support is more gimmicky and should not be considered the norm, but Dragon Dance Mega Charizard X is a good sweeper for dual screen teams in general, so that type of support is worth mentioning. Alolan Ninetales with Aurora Veil achieves the same effect.
[SET]
name: Drought Wallbreaker
move 1: Fire Blast / Flamethrower
move 2: Solar Beam
move 3: Focus Blast
move 4: Roost
item: Charizardite Y
ability: Blaze
nature: Timid / Modest
evs: 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
* Fire Blast is an absurdly powerful STAB attack, plowing through all except bulky foes that resist it.
* Flamethrower is a bit weaker, though still more than strong enough, and is a much more consistent option because it has higher PP and perfect accuracy.
* Solar Beam covers Water-types like Tapu Fini, Keldeo, and Manaphy. It is worth noting that it becomes an unviable option when sun is not up, though Mega Charizard Y is usually not in for long enough to make that an issue.
* Focus Blast covers Heatran and Tyranitar.
Set Details
========
* Full Special Attack investment ensures that Mega Charizard Y can wallbreak effectively as possible.
* Full Speed investment with a Timid nature is preferred to outrun Tapu Lele and Kyurem-B that run a Speed-boosting nature, as well as tying with Manaphy.
* Modest is viable too if the few threats that Timid is required to outrun can be adequately covered, especially if running the weaker Fire-type STAB option in Flamethrower.
* Blaze is preferred over Solar Power on the off-chance that you switch in Charizard while sun is up to avoid taking extra damage for no reason.
Usage Tips
========
* Be careful bringing this in; VoltTurn support or switching in on a resisted hit is usually the best way.
* Avoid switching into Stealth Rock at all costs.
* Usually, throwing out Mega Charizard Y's Fire-type STAB move is an effective option because it is so strong and even does good damage to Pokemon that resist it.
* Sometimes, though, making power plays with coverage moves is good, but you should keep all of their available switch-in options and the risk of a missed prediction in mind before doing so. This set does not require big plays to be effective.
* Use Roost to stay healthy, especially because you should be prepared to switch into Stealth Rock if absolutely necessary.
* Keep in mind the style of team you are fighting. Mega Charizard Y is often a wincon against balance because of its breaking capabilities, for instance, but may be less effective against offense because it is not difficult to revenge kill.
Team Options
========
* Some method of Stealth Rock removal, such as Defog or Rapid Spin from the likes of Tapu Fini, Latios, and Excadrill is absolutely necessary.
* Pursuit support from the likes of Tyranitar and Weavile to take out Latios is helpful.
* VoltTurn support from a pivots like Rotom-W and Landorus-T helps Mega Charizard Y get in safely and start wreaking havoc, especially against offensive teams where it has limited opportunities to switch in.
* A good switch-in to Tapu Koko, a common way to revenge kill Mega Charizard Y, is absolutely necessary. Try a bulky Grass-type, such as Ferrothorn, Amoonguss, or Tangrowth, or Magnezone.
* Dugtrio gets rid of Heatran and Tyranitar effectively. It also has the potential to trap and KO Chansey with Reversal.
* A Pokemon to lure in and KO Toxapex and Mantine, such as Greninja with Extrasensory or Hidden Power Electric, can be helpful, as can an Electric-type partner like Tapu Koko to put pressure on them.
* Any Pokemon, primarily Keldeo and strong physical attackers such as Terrakion and Tapu Bulu, that can put offensive pressure on Chansey is greatly appreciated.
* Other common switch-ins such as Zygarde and Garchomp should be accounted for when teambuilding. Landorus-T is a good answer to both.
[SET]
name: Bulky Will-O-Wisp
move 1: Will-O-Wisp
move 2: Roost
move 3: Flare Blitz
move 4: Earthquake / Dragon Claw
item: Charizardite X
ability: Blaze
nature: Impish
evs: 248 HP / 16 Def / 72 SpD / 172 Spe
Moves
========
* Will-O-Wisp cripples physical attackers with a burn and is an effective lure for certain common Mega Charizard X switch-ins, most notably Landorus-T.
* Roost keeps Mega Charizard X healthy.
* Flare Blitz is a definitive answer to Steel-types and in general packs a serious punch.
* Earthquake prevents this set from being walled by Heatran and Magearna, among other Steel- and Fairy-types.
* Alternatively, Dragon Claw is a basic STAB attack with good neutral coverage and no drawbacks.
* The combination of Dragon Claw and Earthquake can also work, though the sheer power and inability to KO Steel-types outright is missed.
Set Details
========
* Enough Speed investment is run to outspeed Timid Heatran.
* The HP and Defense investment with an Impish nature prevent Mega Metagross from 2HKOing Mega Charizard X with Zen Headbutt.
* The remainder is placed in Special Defense to add a bit of a cushion against Tapu Koko and other special threats.
* If desired, the EVs in Special Defense can be shifted to Defense, as that investment isn't too necessary, though there isn't a huge reason to do so.
* Without Earthquake, there is no reason to outspeed Timid Heatran, so enough investment for Jolly Tapu Bulu (152 EVs) will suffice.
* If you aren't too concerned with outspeeding Heatran or Tapu Bulu, it is possible to drop all the way to 108 Speed EVs, but these threats are significant, so you should have a good reason to do so.
* An Adamant nature with a small amount of Attack investment is also plausible if you want some more offensive capabilities, but the defensive utility of Impish is generally preferred.
* Blaze is preferred over Solar Power on the off-chance that you switch in Charizard while sun is up to avoid taking extra damage for no reason.
Usage Tips
========
* Switch this Mega Charizard X into Pokemon it checks, such as Tapu Koko, Mega Scizor, Tapu Bulu, Celesteela, and Magearna.
* Use burn to cripple Landorus-T that Mega Charizard X lures in, as well as physical attackers in general.
* Bear in mind that the passive damage of Will-O-Wisp is pretty meager, so try to avoid using this against non-physical attackers if you plan to wear them down with status have a Pokemon that can use Toxic, for instance.
* Use Flare Blitz if you want to put meaningful dents in the opposing team, especially if anticipating a special attacker to switch in, but watch recoil damage.
* Use Earthquake to hit Heatran and for its neutral coverage on Water-types as necessary; they are straightforward options.
* Dragon Claw is just a neutral coverage option and should generally be used similarly to Flare Blitz, except that it requires less caution because it does not have recoil.
* In general, you may want to avoid revealing Mega Charizard X's full moveset early on because this set can be a pretty effective lure if you play it correctly.
* Try not to be predictable all the time, as a crucial aspect of this set is luring and disrupting the opposing team. For example, you can use Will-O-Wisp twice in a row if you predict a switch or make a power play with an attack. Just don't play too linear.
* Generally, watch out with switching into Stealth Rock and try to stay as healthy as possible with Roost.
Team Options
========
* This set mostly fits in the context of defensive cores on balance teams.
* Stealth Rock removal is an absolute necessity and can come from a Pokemon like Skarmory, Tapu Fini, Zapdos, and Mantine.
* Partners that can switch into Dragon- and Ground-type attacks, such as Celesteela, Tangrowth, Landorus-T, and Tapu Bulu are good choices.
* This set doesn't really require a ton of support. In fact, its primary drawback is that it prevents you from using another good defensive Mega Pokemon, such as Mega Venusaur or Mega Sableye, that may be more beneficial to the team in general. That does not, however, mean this set cannot be effective.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
========
* A Swords Dance set with Roost and STAB attacks on Mega Charizard X can be run for a more dedicated breaker, boasting absurd power.
* Outrage is a plausible option on Dragon Dance sets for the sheer absurdity of its power, but the lock-in effect makes Mega Charizard X significantly less flexible and thus reduces its overall effectiveness.
* A set with Roost and three attacks to maximize Mega Charizard X's coverage while making use of its reliable recovery can be effective, but lack of a setup move makes it less stressful for teams to deal with overall.
* Tailwind + Swords Dance is a more gimmicky offensive Mega Charizard X set that gets the absurd power of Swords Dance and a Speed boost from Tailwind; the main drawbacks are that it's very hard to set up and lacks longevity.
* Mega Charizard Y could run Earthquake if the player really wants a more reliable option to deal with Heatran and an OHKO on Nihilego, but sacrificing the OHKO on Tyranitar and overall power that Focus Blast possesses makes it a worse option overall.
* Mega Charizard Y can run a defensive set with Flamethrower / Earthquake / Will-O-Wisp / Roost and Special Defense investment, similar to the one Mega Charizard X uses, but a quadruple Stealth Rock weakness makes it too unreliable defensively to be a consistent option for teams.
Checks and Counters
========
**Scouting**: There is no true counter to Charizard, as pretty much no Pokemon actually beats both Mega Evolutions. However, there are methods of dealing with it once you determine which Mega Evolution you are facing. Looking at the opposing team composition, though unreliable, can go a long way toward easing that process. Pursuit support is often a tell-tale sign of a Mega Charizard Y team, for instance, as is a team that lacks another balance breaker. If you see a Charizard on a heavily offensive team, Dragon Dance Mega Charizard X is generally a good bet, and if you see a Mega Charizard X on a more defensive team, it is probably the Will-O-Wisp set. Caution is of the essence, though, so try to be as safe as possible and not risk too much before your opponent's choice of Mega Evolution is revealed.
**Stealth Rock**: Stealth Rock, which should be present on every competitive team, is a massive detriment to any Charizard. Charizard and Mega Charizard Y have a 4x weakness while Mega Charizard X has a 2x weakness, limiting their opportunities to switch in significantly.
**Revenge Killers**: Terrakion, Garchomp, Nihilego, and Latios are good examples of a Choice Scarf users to prevent a Mega Charizard X sweep. Excadrill in sand is another good choice, Choice Scarf Keldeo and Pheromosa can also help with a weakened Mega Charizard, as can priority moves. Focus Sash Dugtrio is another good option to check it by trapping and KOing with Earthquake. As for Mega Charizard Y, Pokemon that can outspeed and KO it like Nihilego (generally a great offensive check to it), Tapu Koko, Choice Scarf Tyranitar, and Terrakion are good answers. If weakened, most other Pokemon that outspeed it, such as Greninja, Mega Metagross, and Keldeo, can revenge kill.
**Status**: Status dooms Mega Charizard X's sweeping potential, especially paralysis. Toxic can also help neuter its longevity, though it may not prevent a sweep on its own. Toxic on Mega Charizard Y forces it to use Roost more often, limiting its effectiveness as a breaker because it cannot throw out attacks as often, and paralysis makes it even easier to revenge kill.
**Bulky Ground-types**: Rocky Helmet Landorus-T is an incredible check to Mega Charizard X, though the less common Will-O-Wisp sets can cripple it. Other variants can also be successful checks, but they cannot really switch into an attack that well. Hippowdon is a solid counter, albeit a less viable Pokemon overall than it once was.
**Water-types**: Tapu Fini, Slowbro, and Toxapex are decent answers to Mega Charizard X. Toxapex and Mantine handle Mega Charizard Y. Pelipper is also a fantastic counter, though not exactly easy to fit on teams, because rain weakens Fire Blast significantly and locks Mega Charizard Y into Solar Beam's charge turn, making that move a serious risk to use. A special mention should be given to Gyarados, which is not only a bulky Water-type but is also a great offensive check to Mega Charizard Y, able to tank a hit and set up on it.
**Dragon-types**: For Mega Charizard Y, Latios, Garchomp, Zygarde, and Salamence are good checks. Mega Charizard X has trouble switching into Focus Blast but can help in conjunction with another answer.
**Chansey**: Chansey is a perfect counter to Mega Charizard Y, sponging all of its attacks with ease and recovering any lost HP with Soft-Boiled, which makes it a consistent answer throughout the match.
**Heatran**: Heatran counters all non-Earthquake Mega Charizard X.
