LC Diglett

Nineage

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[OVERVIEW]

Despite poor defensive stats and mediocre offensive stats, Diglett is one of the defining Pokemon of the Little Cup metagame thanks to its ability Arena Trap, which allows it to revenge kill grounded Pokemon without giving them the option to switch out. Diglett is helped in its revenge killing by a high Speed stat, which allows it to tie for the fastest unboosted Pokemon in the metagame, and a useful offensive typing that gives it super effective STAB coverage on a wide variety of Pokemon. Its moveset is also somewhat customizable, with its movepool including options such as Sucker Punch and Sludge Bomb, allowing it to, for the most part, trap and take on whatever Pokemon its team needs removed. A wide variety of support moves are also at its disposal, allowing Diglett to support its team after trapping the Pokemon it aims to eliminate.

However, Diglett's poor defensive stats leave it unable to safely switch into the Pokemon it aims to trap and susceptible to opposing priority. It is forced to choose between a Focus Sash set, which lacks power, or a Life Orb set, which has no chance of switching into battle. Even with a Life Orb, Diglett is still quite weak, as it only reaches 15 Attack. Diglett is also easily revenge killed or set up on after trapping and KOing an opposing Pokemon thanks to its mediocre stats.

[SET]
name: Offensive Trapper
move 1: Earthquake
move 2: Rock Slide
move 3: Sucker Punch / Sludge Bomb
move 4: Substitute / Memento / Sludge Bomb
item: Life Orb / Groundium Z
ability: Arena Trap
nature: Jolly
evs: 36 HP / 236 Atk / 236 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

Earthquake is a reliable STAB move that allows Diglett to take out the Electric-, Steel-, and Rock-types that it aims to trap. If Groundium Z is run, Diglett can use Tectonic Rage, a powered-up version of Earthquake that will take out Pokemon that Earthquake could not normally KO, such as fast Mienfoo variants and slightly weakened Foongus and Staryu. Rock Slide allows Diglett to take out weakened Pokemon that are immune to Earthquake, such as Vullaby. Sucker Punch is useful against weakened or frail Choice Scarf users, such as Chinchou and slower priority users, such as Doduo. Sludge Bomb is an alternative that lets Diglett trap Cottonee and deal decent damage to other Grass-type Pokemon that aim to revenge kill it. Substitute allows Diglett to play mind games with Sucker Punch users such as Pawniard and, potentially, gives Diglett free turns against foes Choice-locked into Electric-type moves. Memento lets Diglett give a partner a free setup opportunity against the foe of its choice, with the opponent unable to switch out. Sludge Bomb remains an option in this slot, giving Diglett the ability to trap the Pokemon mentioned above. Stealth Rock can be used as well on teams that need it, as Diglett can use it after trapping and taking out a Pokemon.

Set Details
========

The given EV spread maximizes Diglett's Attack and Speed, with the remaining EVs giving Diglett an extra point in HP. With maximum Speed investment and a Jolly nature, Diglett hits 20 Speed, outspeeding or tying with the entire unboosted metagame. A Life Orb allows Diglett to hit as hard as possible, letting it reliably KO the Pokemon it aims to KO. Alternatively, Groundium Z can be run, which costs Diglett general power but allows it to more reliably trap some Pokemon that can take a Life Orb-boosted Earthquake. Arena Trap allows Diglett to be the metagame's top revenge killer, as it keeps grounded targets from switching out, allowing Diglett to KO them.

Usage Tips
========

Diglett should be used to trap and revenge kill specific Pokemon throughout a match. It should almost never be switched into attacks, due to its frailty, but instead brought in by a slow pivot or after the opponent KOes a Pokemon. Scout out opposing Pokemon that may be equipped with a Choice Scarf early on, as Pokemon such as Chinchou and Magnemite that Diglett can often trap can also surprise and outspeed it with a Choice Scarf. If a foe is equipped with a Choice Scarf, Diglett should wait until it is within range of a Sucker Punch KO before trapping it. Be aware that, even with a Life Orb, Diglett is not particularly powerful and with a Groundium Z is even less so when not using Tectonic Rage. Thus, be careful of opposing Pokemon that could come in after Diglett KOes a Pokemon and use it as setup bait, including Timburr, Snivy, and Pumpkaboo-S. If Groundium Z is run, it should be used to power up Earthquake once, when Diglett needs to provide a KO for its team that Diglett's other coverage moves cannot provide. After getting the KOs it needs, Diglett can use its high speed to get off a Memento or Stealth Rock before being KOed.

Team Options
========

Pokemon that appreciate Diglett's ability to remove Rock-, Steel-, Fire-, and Electric-type foes make the most obvious partners. Flying-types such as Vullaby and Rufflet appreciate Diglett dealing with all of these, as do Normal-types such as Aipom. Fairy-types such as Spritzee, which appreciate Diglett's ability to remove Poison- and Steel-types, make good partners, as do Grass-types, such as Snivy and Pumpkaboo-S, which appreciate the removal of Fire-, Steel-, and Poison-types. Slow pivots that can bring Diglett in safely make good partners as well. Mienfoo is one such option that also appreciates Diglett's ability to remove Ponyta and Poison-types, significantly damage most Fairy-types, and KO Cottonee if running Sludge Bomb. Chinchou also pairs fairly well with Diglett, as Diglett can trap opposing Chinchou for it to pivot more easily. If Diglett is running Groundium Z, Pokemon that appreciate its ability to KO bulky Fighting-types with Tectonic Rage make good partners, especially Carvanha and Scraggy. Pokemon that can take on the bulky Flying-types that don't mind Rock Slide are good partners for Diglett, especially Electric-types such as Elekid and Magnemite. Entry hazard support from the likes of Onix or Ferroseed helps Diglett safely secure more KOs and can break Magnemite's Sturdy to allow Diglett to trap it more safely. Similarly, Knock Off users, including Mienfoo and Pawniard, help Diglett secure more KOs it couldn't get otherwise by removing Eviolites and Berry Juices from foes, and can also remove Choice Scarves to help Diglett trap Pokemon such as Magnemite and Chinchou. Sticky Web setters, specifically Surskit, help Diglett by allowing it to outspeed grounded Choice Scarf Pokemon and trap them reliably.

[SET]
name: Focus Sash
move 1: Earthquake
move 2: Sucker Punch / Memento
move 3: Rock Slide / Sludge Bomb
move 4: Memento / Reversal / Stealth Rock
item: Focus Sash
ability: Arena Trap
nature: Jolly
evs: 36 HP / 236 Atk / 236 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

Earthquake is a fairly powerful STAB move that allows Diglett to take out most Rock-, Steel-, Fire-, and Electric-type Pokemon. Sucker Punch gives Diglett a form of priority to outspeed and take out weakened priority users, such as Doduo. Memento can be used instead so that Diglett can give a teammate a setup opportunity after it is weakened itself. Rock Slide allows Diglett to hit Flying-types and other Pokemon that resist Earthquake. Sludge Bomb is an alternative that does a fair amount of damage to Grass-types, specifically Cottonee. Memento can also be used in the final moveslot; if it is not, however, Reversal gives Diglett an extremely powerful attack that hits Pokemon such as Scraggy super effectively after it survives an attack using its Focus Sash, and Stealth Rock can give a team a Stealth Rock setter if it can't fit the move in elsewhere.

Set Details
========

Diglett's Attack and Speed are maximized to enable it to revenge kill as best it can. The remaining EVs are put into HP, boosting it by one point. With 236 Speed EVs and a Jolly nature, Diglett hits 20 Speed, outspeeding or tying with every unboosted LC Pokemon. A Focus Sash lets Diglett safely switch in on one attack and use its Speed to outspeed and take out the foe. Arena Trap is the preferred ability because it keeps Diglett's foes from switching out, making it an extremely effective revenge killer.

Usage Tips
========

Diglett should be brought in against a Pokemon it can trap to remove it from the match. If entry hazards are up or Diglett's Focus Sash is no longer intact, it shouldn't be switched in at all, but instead saved as a revenge killer only. If Diglett's item will remain intact, it can come in safely against a Pokemon it can hit super effectively with Earthquake, take a hit with Focus Sash, and KO. Scouting for opposing Choice Scarf users is helpful, as Pokemon that Focus Sash Diglett could normally beat, such as Pawniard and Chinchou, cannot be switched into if they are equipped with a Choice Scarf. Be cautious of the fact that Diglett is not particularly strong and can become setup bait for Pokemon it doesn't hit super effectively with Earthquake. Bulkier setup sweepers, including Nasty Plot and Z-Mirror Move Vullaby variants, Scraggy, Shellder, and Snivy can be especially troubling. If Diglett's Focus Sash is intact, it can act as a last-ditch stop to setup sweepers such as Omanyte, either by KOing them or by using Memento to lower their attacking stats.

Team Options
========

Focus Sash Diglett is the best option on teams that need Diglett to be able to take a single hit and take out a foe. Hazard control is absolutely necessary for this Diglett set to perform its role effectively, as entry hazards will break its Focus Sash and limit its overall effectiveness. Staryu and Drilbur can both use Rapid Spin to remove hazards, and Vullaby can use Defog. Diglett is appreciated by anything that enjoys the removal of Rock-, Steel-, Fire-, and Electric-types. Vullaby, Rufflet, and Doduo appreciate Diglett taking out Rock- and Steel-types, Chinchou appreciates its ability to take out opposing Electric-types, and Grass-type attackers such as Snivy appreciate its ability to take out Steel-, Fire-, and Poison-types. Diglett also appreciates support from strong attackers, such as Abra and Timburr, to help it get KOs despite its mediocre Attack stat by softening up the opposition. Knock Off support from the likes of Mienfoo, Pawniard, and Cottonee also weakens opposing teams by removing foes' Eviolites for Diglett to deal with more easily. Entry hazard support is appreciated as well, with Pokemon such as Onix and Omanyte performing this role well. Diglett's Rock Slide is quite weak, so Pokemon that can weaken bulky Flying-types, which are immune to Earthquake, is appreciated. Electric- and Rock-type Pokemon provide this support well. If Memento is run, Pokemon that can take advantage of Memento support, such as Shellder and Zigzagoon, make good partners. Lastly, Sticky Web support from Surskit allows Diglett to outspeed even Choice Scarf users and more reliably trap foes for its team.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============

Diglett should not attempt to use Sand Force, as it makes a poor sand sweeper after the initial surprise value due to its susceptibility to revenge killing, poor power even with a Sand Force boost, and the fact that it is outclassed by Alolan Diglett in this role. Beat Up is an option on either Diglett set to reliably KO Focus Sash Abra on teams that need Abra removed but can't run a Pursuit trapper. It also can be used against Weak Armor Pokemon to lower their Defense stat for a teammate to revenge kill. Pursuit is a usable move on teams that really need Gastly removed. Shadow Claw is an option that hits Gastly without forcing Diglett into Sucker Punch mindgames but hits little else. Similarly, Aerial Ace gives Diglett a way to hit Grass-types, but it is extremely weak and has little general use. Choice Scarf Diglett is among the fastest Pokemon in the metagame and can surprise and trap other Choice Scarf users such as Magnemite and Chinchou, but Diglett then becomes setup bait very quickly. An Eviolite set can be used to take weak attacks from Choice Scarf Magnemite among others, but Diglett will still get KOed by most attacks. Finally, Diglett can use Sunny Day to act as an alternate weather setter for sun teams, but this comes at the expense of a utility move such as Memento or a coverage move such as Rock Slide.

Checks and Counters
===================

**Flying-types**: Flying-type Pokemon are immune to Arena Trap, so Diglett cannot trap them, and they are immune to Diglett's STAB. Some, such as Vullaby, do not take significant damage from Diglett's attacks even if they do choose to stay in, and others, such as Doduo, can KO Diglett with powerful priority attacks.

**Revenge Killers**: Strong priority and Choice Scarf Pokemon can move before Diglett and easily take advantage of its low defenses to remove it from a match. Corphish, Pawniard, and Doduo are all common priority users that threaten Diglett.

**Grass-types**: Grass-type Pokemon such as Snivy, Pumpkaboo, and Foongus can all easily KO Diglett, and the former two can use it as setup bait, with Snivy able to gain Special Attack boosts and potentially initiate a sweep just by KOing Diglett with Leaf Storm. Cottonee can also check Diglett if it is not running Sludge Bomb. However, these Pokemon are usually limited to revenge killing Diglett due to Arena Trap.

**Bulky Pokemon**: Many bulky Pokemon, including Spritzee, Slowpoke, and Timburr, are not KOed by Diglett's attacks and can easily KO in return. Corphish and Shellder are especially threatening, as they are bulky enough to take Diglett's attacks and can set up and initiate a sweep in return.
 
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AM QC Check - if I don't mention a section it means I don't think there's anything wrong with it
Overview
* Fine for the most part. I'd suggest mentioning its access to useful utility moves in Memento and Stealth Rock tho, given its great speed.
* I also think its item struggle is worth mentioning here. Its not very strong without Life Orb and can't survive attacks from what it doesn't kill without Focus Sash.
* With a Speed positive nature, Diglett only reaches 14 attack, which is pretty mediocre. I feel like that's definitely worth mentioning.

OFFENSIVE TRAPPER
Moves
* Earthquake could use some examples imo. You've told us the types of Pokemon it hits, but how much damage does *insert mon here* take from Digs' eq?
* Examples of Pokemon Sucker Punch can hit would be nice, like Gastly. Any frail scarfers you have in mind?
* I think you need to talk about Tectonic Rage here.

Usage Tips
* Mention that Substitute is a good option when against a defensive pokemon that can't do much to hurt Diglett.
* It's worth mentioning that Continental Crush should only be used on Pokemon capable of surviving EQ or other coverage.
* I'd say that Diglett can still take on choice scarf users, but usually only when they're weakened and in range of a Sucker Punch KO

Team Options
* Give some examples of Pokemon that appreciate Diglett's revenge killing capabilities. It's great that you've included types, but what specific mons?
* Mention mons that you feel have good offensive synergy with Diglett.
* Knock Off support is useful for Diglett, as it helps weaken some threats that it may have trouble breaking through.
* Pokes that take care of bulkier flying type mons that Rock Slide doesn't do much damage to (like Vullaby) are appreciated. Examples include Elekid and Magnemite.
* Sticky Web support helps Diglett to outpace Choice Scarfers that aren't Flying-types.

FOCUS SASH
Usage Tips
* Examples of pokes that use Diglett as set up bait could help new players know what to watch out for when using this set
* Mention that the combo of EQ and Sucker Punch is useful for taking care of or weakening frailer scarfers like Pawn and Chinchou.
* Mention that this set is useful as an emergency stop to set up sweepers.

Team Options
* I'd mention strong attackers that can weaken bulkier threats that Diglett hates dealing with. Ik you mentioned other forms of support to help it to get KOs but powerful Special/Physical attacks from the likes of Abra and Timburr can help it out.
* Again, I think Sticky Web deserves a mention.
* Due to even less power, I'd also mention better answers to flying-types than just rock slide coverage here too.

Other Options
* Shadow Claw to hit ghost and psychic types that try playing Sucker Punch mind games is nice, but isn't good against anything else and lacks power.
* Aerial Ace is good against Grass types but is extremely weak otherwise, deserves a mention imo anyway
* Rockium Z is useful for hitting Flying-type Pokemon like Vullaby for more damage, though this isn't as useful as the power provided by Life Orb or the breaking capabilities you're given by Groundium Z.

Checks and Counters
Great stuff here, but I think priority deserves a mention.

Overall great work! :) This was honestly really hard to QC check since its really good lmao. Hope this helps!

Edit: Maybe CB could go in OO, since it patches up Diglett's power problem. Definite drawback in being locked onto EQ in a bird-filled metagame among other stuff, but thats why its OO.
 
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So normally I just leave a like for AM checks, maybe make a mental note that user x is helpful if they consistently have helpful advice. But you're so close to the level of quality we're looking for in QC members that I'll make an exception and go through the check in detail:

* With a Speed positive nature, Diglett only reaches 14 attack, which is pretty mediocre. I feel like that's definitely worth mentioning.
Not true - Diglett can reach 15 Atk. Always make sure the things you suggest are factually correct
* Mention that Substitute is a good option when against a defensive pokemon that can't do much to hurt Diglett.
Here is another point you shouldn't make even though it's not strictly incorrect, as it's completely unnecessary - there are no relevant defensive Pokemon that Diglett can actually get a sub up on.
Edit: Maybe CB could go in OO, since it patches up Diglett's power problem. Definite drawback in being locked onto EQ in a bird-filled metagame among other stuff, but thats why its OO.
So two important things about LC rolls. The first is that Choice Band and Choice Specs often do not actually increase damage more than Life Orb because they are treated differently in damage calculations - Choice Band/Specs increase the actual stat, whereas Life Orb is a damage multiplier. All the numbers are high enough at level 100 for all the boosts to be taken at face value regardless of how they are treated in the damage calc, but in LC we get calcs like this:

236 Atk Life Orb Diglett Earthquake vs. 212 HP / 196+ Def Eviolite Spritzee: 9-13 (33.3 - 48.1%) -- guaranteed 3HKO
(9, 12, 12, 12, 12, 12, 12, 12, 12, 12, 12, 12, 12, 12, 12, 13)
236 Atk Choice Band Diglett Earthquake vs. 212 HP / 196+ Def Eviolite Spritzee: 10-13 (37 - 48.1%) -- guaranteed 3HKO
(10, 10, 10, 10, 12, 12, 12, 12, 12, 12, 12, 12, 12, 12, 12, 13)

Now, there are instances where the difference between LO and CB is quite important, like Corphish's Adamant Crabhammer on 14 Def Pokemon, but generally band/scarf aren't needed for OO.

The other thing is that for multihit moves, each individual hit is calculated and rounded separately so this happens:

116 Atk Life Orb Aipom Fury Swipes (5 hits) vs. 0 HP / 196 Def Eviolite Mienfoo: 20-25 (95.2 - 119%) -- approx. 6.3% chance to OHKO
(4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 5)
116 Atk Life Orb Aipom Last Resort vs. 0 HP / 196 Def Eviolite Mienfoo: 16-19 (76.1 - 90.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
(16, 16, 16, 16, 16, 17, 17, 17, 17, 17, 17, 17, 17, 17, 17, 19)

But that isn't relevant to this analysis; I just wanted to make sure you were aware since I understand your main mons background to not be LC.

Toxic is also worse in LC because the damage is rounded down so it may be doing the same amount of damage for several turns in a row, but it's fine to leave it in OO most of the time


In general, your level of detail in picking out issues with an analysis is pretty much exactly at where we want for someone on the QC team. Just make sure everything you suggest actually improves the analysis in your eyes (so potentially controversial suggestions like changing set order are fine, as long as you actually feel the new set order is better).

Tagging AD Thunderboy as the other person who is really close to being added to QC because some of what I said applies to you as well


My own comments -
Team Options for the first set needs Carvanha and Scraggy mentioned with the tectrage set since it's pretty much mandatory for being able to trap knocked off bulky fighters/poisons.
Other Options should mention Pursuit for Gastly, Sunny Day if it's being used on Sun teams, and that it's a really bad Sand sweeper despite the initial surprise value.
For Checks and Counters, put special emphasis on Corphish/Shellder and Snivy in their respective sections for being able to take advantage of Diglett on the field to easily set up a sweep.

Implement hilomilo's check except for the three points I quoted above and that'll be 1/3
 
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[OVERVIEW]
  • Mention that Diglett's good offensive typing aids it in its role, as it allows it to trap a wide variety of Pokemon (a Steel- or Poison-type with Arena Trap would not be nearly as useful, since they can simply threaten way less they could trap)

[SET]
name: Offensive Trapper

good

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
  • Mention some examples of KOs Tectonic Rage picks up that Life Orb Earthquake doesn't (might also fit in Set Details on the Groundium Z explanantion, I'll leave it up to you where you put it. Also, guaranteed OHKO onto Mareanie and offensive Mienfoo work as examples.)
  • I think Abra is a better example of a frail, fast target for Sucker Punch, since it gets trapped while Gastly does not
  • It feels weird that Sludge Bomb is slashed in the fourth slot and Stealth Rock is mentioned there (I understand you want to keep it as a move mention and that Sludge Bomb is already mentioned in the third bullet point, but you have all moves slashed in the fourth slot in one bullet point, and then SR there and not Sludge Bomb), so try to fix this during write up.
Set Details
========
  • Again, the Tectonic Rage vs LO EQ examples could go here, up to you.
Usage Tips
========

good

Team Options
=======
  • Mention that Knock Off users can also remove Choice Scarves, allowing Diglett to outspeed and potentially trap those Scarfers. Also mention that they allow Diglett to get those KOs by removing Eviolites or Berry Juices (just a bit of clarity)
[SET]
name: Focus Sash

good

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
  • Mention examples of priority users Diglett can KO if they are weakened (Doduo, Corphish)
  • It feels weird that Memento is only explained in the slot where it is not the primary option, but this can (again) be fixed in write up
  • The Stealth Rock explanation is also worded slightly weird, repeats Stealth Rock a bit often (and Stealth Rock can give a team that can't fit Stealth Rock in elsewhere a Stealth Rock setter). It can be reworded like 'Stealth Rock can be used on teams that can't fit a setter elsewhere'.
Set Details
========

good

Usage Tips
========

good

Team Options
========
  • Mention that Knock Off users weaken teams by removing Eviolites (just a bit of clarity)
  • Mention examples of Electric- and Rock-type Pokemon (Chinchou, Magnemite, Tirtouga, Onix)

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
  • Why is Diglett a poor sand sweeper? Mention that it has low power, can still be outsped by Scarfers, is very weak to priority, and is outclassed by Alolan Diglett thanks to its extra STAB and thus higher power
  • Change the wording in the Eviolite bullet point while writing up (fairly certain you were gonna do this anyway, but you never know)

Checks and Counters
===================
  • Mention that Flying-types are also immune to Diglett's STAB

QC 2/3, write me up Scotty
QC Stamp final.gif
 
Overview
* I'd specify that Diglett can trap grounded Pokemon with Arena Trap.
* Give some examples of what you call a customizable movepool. I'd give Sludge Bomb and Sucker Punch as examples.

Moves
* I think you need more than just Mienfoo as an example when you talk about mons that Tectonic Rage muscles through. Maybe add stuff like Life Orb Staryu and weakened Foongus.

Set Details
* Give examples of Pokemon that you say can take EQ but are hit hard by Groundium Z.
* Again, specify that grounded foes are trapped and KOed (sorry kind of a nitpick).

Usage Tips
* Looks good, but I'd give some examples of Pokemon that can set up on Diglett after it uses Groundium Z or KOs something, like Timburr or Vullaby.

Team Options
* "Fairy types, which appreciate Diglett's ability to remove Poison- and Steel-types, and Grass-types, which appreciate the removal of Fire-, Steel- and Poison-types, also make good partners."
I get what you're saying here, but this is worded really awkwardly and should just be put into two separate sentences. It sounds kinda like you're saying that Fairies appreciate Dig's ability to get rid of Grass-types. Give examples of Pokemon of these types as well

SET: FOCUS SASH
Set
Looks good

Moves
* Nothing here really, except I'd mention that reversal can be useful for hitting things like Munchlax and Scraggy super effectively.
* I'd also change Corphish to another example, it outprioritizes with Aqua Jet if its boosted.

Set Details
* All I'd add here is that the remaining investment in HP raises the stat by one point (total nitpick but hey, this analysis is good af lol)

Usage Tips
Muy bueno

Team Options
* Give examples of Pokemon that appreciate Diglett's memento support for setting up, like Shellder and Pawniard.

Other Options
* All I can think of adding here is the drawback to using Sunny Day, which is the loss in either Memento/Stealth Rock or coverage.

Checks and Counters
Looks good

Overall extremely solid analysis! Definitely one of the more difficult QC checks I've given since I nitpicked most of these changes lol. 3/3
 
AMCHECK
remove add/fix (comments)
[OVERVIEW]
Despite poor defensive stats and mediocre offensive stats, Diglett is one of the defining Pokemon of the Little Cup metagame thanks to its ability, Arena Trap, which allows it to revenge kill grounded Pokemon without them being able to switch out. Digletts is helped in its revenge killing by a high Speed stat increases its viability as a revenge killer, which allows it to tie for the fastest unboosted Pokemon in the metagame,(RC) and a. Its useful offensive typing that gives it super effective STAB coverage on a wide variety of Pokemon. Its movepool is also somewhat customizable, with options such as Sucker Punch and Sludge Bomb, allowing it to trap the Pokemon its team needs trapped to an extent. A wide variety of support moves are also at its disposal, allowing Diglett to support its team after trapping the Pokemon it aims to trap.(no need to start a new paragraph) However, Diglett's poor defensive stats leave it unable to safely switch into the Pokemon it aims to trap,(RC) and susceptible to opposing priority. It is forced to choose between a Focus Sash set, which lacks power, or a Life Orb set, which has no chance of switching into the Pokemon Diglett wants to trap. Even with a Life Orb, too, Diglett is quite weak, as it only reaches 15 Attack. Diglett is also easily revenge killed after trapping and KOing an opposing Pokemon, or set up on thanks to its mediocre stats.
[SET]
name: Offensive Trapper
move 1: Earthquake
move 2: Rock Slide
move 3: Sucker Punch / Sludge Bomb
move 4: Substitute / Memento / Sludge Bomb
item: Life Orb / Groundium Z
ability: Arena Trap
nature: Jolly
evs: 36 HP / 236 Atk / 236 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

Earthquake is a reliable STAB move that allows Diglett to take out the Electric-, Steel-, and Rock-types that it aims to trap. If Groundinium Z is run, Diglett can use Tectonic Rage ,(RC) a powered-up version of Earthquake that will(the reader will know this)to take out Pokemon that Earthquake could not normally KO, such as fast Mienfoo variants,(AC) and slightly weakened Foonguses,(AC) and Staryus. Rock Slide allows Diglett to take out weakened Pokemon that are immune to Earthquake,(RC) such as Vullaby. Sucker Punch is useful against weakened or frail Choice Scarf users, such as Chinchou, frail fast Pokemon, such as Abra, and slower priority users, such as Doduo. Sludge Bomb is an alternative that lets Diglett trap Cottonee,(RC) and deal decent damage to other Grass-type Pokemon that aim to revenge kill it. Substitute is useful because it allows Diglett to play mind games with Sucker Punch users such as Pawniard, and has other situational uses such as giving Diglett free turns against pokemon Choice-locked into Electric-type moves. Memento lets Diglett give a partner a free setup opportunity, with the opponent unable to switch out. Sludge Bomb remains an option in this slot, giving Diglett the ability to trap the Pokemon mentioned above. Stealth Rock can be used as well on teams that need Stealth Rocks(always Stealth Rock), as Diglett can use it after trapping and taking out a specific Pokemon.
Set Details
========

The given EV spread maximizes Diglett's Attack and Speed, with the remaining EVs giving Diglett a point in HP. With maximum Speed investment and a Jolly nature, Diglett hits 20 Speed, outspeeding or tying with the entire unboosted metagame. A Life Orb allows Diglett to hit as hard as possible, letting it reliably KO the Pokemon it aims to KO. Alternatively, Groundnium Z can be run, which costs Diglett power but allows it to more reliably trap some Pokemon that can take a standard Earthquake. Arena Trap allows Diglett to be the metagame's top revenge killer, as it keeps grounded opponents from switching out,(RC) allowing Diglett to KO them.
Usage Tips
========

Diglett should be used to trap and revenge kill specific Pokemon throughout a match. It should almost never be switched into attacks, due to its frailty, but instead brought in by a slow pivot or after the opponent KOs a Pokemon. Scout out opposing Pokemon that may or may not be equipped with a Choice Scarf early on, as Pokemon such aslike (like = comparison) Chinchou and Magnemite that Diglett can often trap can surprise and outspeed itDiglett with a Choice Scarf. If a foe is equipped with a Choice Scarf, Diglett should wait until it is within range of a Sucker Punch KO before trapping it. Be aware that,(RC) even with a Life Orb, Diglett is not particularly powerful, and with a Groundnium Z is even less so. Thus, be careful of opposing Pokemon that could come in after Diglett KOs a Pokemon and use it as setup bait, including Timburr, Snivy, and Pumpkaboo-S. If Groundium Z is run, it should be used to power up Earthquake once, when Diglett needs to provide a KO for its team that Diglett's other coverage moves cannot provide. After getting the KOs it needs, Diglett can abuse its high speed to get off a Memento or Stealth Rock before being KOed.
Team Options
========

Pokemon that appreciate Diglett's ability to remove Rock-, Steel-, Fire-, and Electric-type foes make the most obvious partners. Flying types such as Vullaby and Rufflet appreciate Diglett dealing with all of these, as do Normal types such as Aipom. Fairy types,(RC) such as Spritzee, which appreciate Diglett's ability to remove Poison- and Steel-types, make good partners, as doand Grass-types,(RC) such as Snivy and Pumkaboo-S, which appreciate the removal of Fire-, Steel-,(AC) and Poison-types, also make good partners. Slow pivots that can bring Diglett in safely make good partners as well. Mienfoo is an option that appreciates Diglett's ability to remove Ponyta,(RC) and Poison-types(AH), significantly damage most Fairy-types, and KO Cottonee if Diglett is running Sludge Bomb. Chinchou also pairs fairly well with Diglett, as Diglett can trap opposing Chinchou forallowing it to pivot more easily. If Diglett is running Groundinium Z, Pokemon that appreciate its ability to KO bulky Fighting-types with Tectonic Rage make good partners, especially Carvanha and Scraggy. Pokemon that can take on the bulky Flying-types that don't mind Rock Slide are good partners for Diglett, especially Electric-types such as Elekid and Magnemite. Entry hazard support from the likes of Onix or Ferroseed helps Diglett safely secure more KOs, and can break Magnemite's Sturdy to allow Diglett to trap it more safely. Similarly, Knock Off users,(RC) includingsuch as Mienfoo and Pawniard, help Diglett secure more KOs it couldn't get otherwise by removing Eviolites and Berry Juices from foes, and can also remove Choice Scarves to help Diglett trap Pokemon such as Magnemite and Chinchou. Sticky Web setters, specifically Surskit, help Diglett by allowing it to outspeed grounded Choice Scarf Pokemon and trap them reliably.
[SET]
name: Focus Sash
move 1: Earthquake
move 2: Sucker Punch / Memento
move 3: Rock Slide / Sludge Bomb
move 4: Memento / Reversal / Stealth Rock
item: Focus Sash
ability: Arena Trap
nature: Jolly
evs: 36 HP / 236 Atk / 236 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

Earthquake is a fairly powerful STAB move that allows Diglett to take out most Rock-, Steel-, Fire-, and Electric-type Pokemon. Sucker Punch gives Diglett a form of priority to outspeed and take out weakened priority users,(RC) such as Doduo. Memento can be used instead so that Diglett can give a teammate a setup opportunity after it ishas been weakened itself. Rock Slide allows Diglett to hit Flying-types and other Pokemon that resist Earthquake. Sludge Bomb is an alternative that does a fair amount of damage to Grass-types, specifically Cottonee. Memento can also be used in the final moveslot; however, if it is not, however, Reversal gives Diglett an extremely powerful attack that hits Pokemon such as Scraggy super effectively,(AC) after it survives an attack using its Focus Sash,(RC) and. Stealth Rock can give a team a Stealth Rock setter if it can't fit the move in elsewhere.
Set Details
========

Diglett's Attack and Speed are maximized to enable it to revenge kill as best it can. The remaining EVs are put into HP, boosting it by one point. With 236 Speed EVs and a Jolly nature, Diglett hits 20 Speed, outspeeding or tying with every unboosted LC Pokemon. A Focus Sash lets Diglett safely switch in on one attack and use its Speed to outspeed and take out the foe. Arena Trap is the preferred ability because it keeps Diglett's foes from switching out, making it an extremely effective revenge killer.

Usage Tips
========

Diglett should be brought in against a Pokemon it can trap to remove it from the match. If entry hazards are up or Diglett's Focus Sash is no longer intact, it shouldn't be switched in at all, but instead saved as a revenge killer only. If Diglett's sash
will remains intact, it can come in safely against a Pokemon it can hit super effectively with Earthquake, take a hit with Focus Sash, and KO. Scouting for opposing Choice Scarf users is helpful, as Pokemon that Focus Sash Diglett could normally beat, such as Pawniard and Chinchou, cannot be switched into if they are equipped with a Choice Scarf. Be cautious of the fact that Diglett is not particularly strong, and can become setup bait for Pokemon it doesn't hit super effectively with Earthquake. Bulkier setup sweepers, including Nasty Plot and Z-Mirror Move Vullaby variants, Scraggy, Shellder, and Snivy can be especially troubling. If Diglett's Focus Sash is intact, it can act as a last-ditch stop to resort against setup sweepers such as Omanyte, either by KOing or using Memento to lower their attacking stats.
Team Options
========

Focus Sash Diglett is the best option on teams that need Diglett to be able to take a single hit and take out a foe. Hazard control is absolutely necessary for this Diglett set to perform its role effectively, as hazards will break its Focus Sash and limit its overall effectiveness. Staryu and Drilbur can both use Rapid Spin to remove hazards, and Vullaby can use Defog. Diglett is appreciated byhelpful for anything that appreciates its ability to remove Rock-, Steel-, Fire-, and Electric-types. Vullaby, Rufflet, and Doduo appreciate Diglett taking out Rock- and Steel-types, Chinchou appreciates its ability to take out opposing Electric-types, and offensive Grass-types attackers such as Snivy appreciate its ability to take out Steel-, Fire-, and Poison-types. Diglett also appreciates support to help it get KOs despite its mediocre Attack stat. Strong attackers, such as Abra and Timburr, can soften up opposing Pokemon simply by attacking. Knock Off support from the likes of Mienfoo, Pawniard, and Cottonee, also weakens opposing teams by removing foes' Eviolites for Diglett to deal with more easily. Entry hazard support is appreciated as well, with Pokemon such as Onix and Omanyte performing this role well. Diglett's Rock Slide is quite weak, so Pokemon that can weaken bulky Flying-types, which are immune to Earthquake, is appreciated. Electric- and Rock-type Pokemon provide this support well. If Memento is run, Pokemon that can take advantage of Memento support, such as Shellder and Zigzagoon, make good partners. Lastly, Sticky Web support from Surskit allows Diglett to outpseed even Choice Scarf users, and more reliably trap foes for its team.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============

Diglett should not attempt to use Sand Force, as it makes a poor sand sweeper after the initial surprise value due to its susceptibility to revenge killing, poor power even with a Sand Force boost, and the fact that it is outclassed by Alolan Diglett in this role. Beat Up is an option on either Diglett set to reliably OHKO sash Abra on teams that need Abra removed,(AC) but can't run a Pursuit trapper. It also can be used against Weak Armor Pokemon to lower their Defense stat for a teammate to revenge kill. Pursuit is a usable move on teams that really need Gastly removed. Shadow Claw is an option that hits Gastly without forcing Diglett into Sucker Punch mindgames, but hits little else. Similarly, Aerial Ace gives Diglett a way to hit Grass-types,(AC) but is extremely weak and has little general use. Choice Scarf Diglett becomes among the fastest Pokemon in the metagame, and can surprise and trap other Choice Scarf users such as Magnemite and Chinchou, but Diglett then becomes setup bait very quickly. An Eviolite set can be used to take weak attacks from Choice Scarf Magnemite,(RC) among others, but Diglett will still get KOed by most attacks. Finally, Diglett can use Sunny Day to act as an alternate weather setter for sun teams, but at the expense of a utility move such as Memento,(AC) or a coverage move such as Rock Slide.
Checks and Counters
===================

**Flying Types**: Flying-type(AH) Pokemon are immune to Arena Trap, so Diglett cannot trap them, and they are immune to Diglett's STAB. Some Flying-types,(RC) such as Vullaby,(RC) do not take significant damage from Diglett's attacks,(AC) even if they do choose to stay in, and others, such as Doduo, can KO Diglett with powerful priority attacks.
**Revenge Killers**: Strong priority and Choice Scarf Pokemon can move before Diglett and easily take advantage of its low defenses to remove it from a match. Corphish, Pawniard, and Doduo are all common priority users that threaten Diglett.

**Grass Types**: Grass type Pokemon such as Snivy, Pumpkaboo, and Foongus can all easily KO Diglett, and the former two can use it as setup bait, with Snivy able to gain Special Attack boosts and potentially initiate a sweep just by KOing Diglett. Cottonee can also check Diglett if it is not running Sludge Bomb. However, these Pokemon are usually limited to revenge killing Diglett due to Arena Trap.

**Bulky Pokemon**: Many bulky Pokemon,(RC) including Spritzee, Slowpoke, and Timburr, are not KOed by Diglett's attacks and can easily KO it in return. Corphish and Shellder are especially threatening, as they are bulky enough to take Diglett's attacks, and can set up and initiate a sweep in return.
Since this is only an amcheck, you do not have to include my changes and this will not count towards one of your GP stamps.
 
Conor3197, next time please make amchecks outside of quote boxes - it means that implementing them by the Reply method (the one recommended in the guide here) is impossible. It also makes it difficult for me to work from your check, so if you're curious what you did right or wrong here the best way to figure that out would be to look at the check I did myself and make sure you understand every change I've made. Feel free to PM / VM me with any questions :)

Nineage watch your spelling of Groundium Z, I think I caught all of them but you spelled it at least 3 different ways in this analysis haha. Otherwise this was extremely well-written and I enjoyed the read!

GP 1/2 (Standard Colors/Meanings you know the drill)
gWQRZHc.gif

[OVERVIEW]

Despite poor defensive stats and mediocre offensive stats, Diglett is one of the defining Pokemon of the Little Cup metagame thanks to its ability, Arena Trap, which allows it to revenge kill grounded Pokemon without them being able giving them the option to switch out. Diglett is helped in its revenge killing by a high Speed stat, which allows it to tie for the fastest unboosted Pokemon in the metagame, and a useful offensive typing that gives it super effective STAB coverage on a wide variety of Pokemon. Its movepool moveset is also somewhat customizable, with its movepool including options such as Sucker Punch and Sludge Bomb, allowing it to, for the most part, trap and take on whatever the Pokemon its team needs removed trapped to an extent. A wide variety of support moves are also at its disposal, allowing Diglett to support its team after trapping the Pokemon it aims to trap eliminate.

However, Diglett's poor defensive stats leave it unable to safely switch into the Pokemon it aims to trap, (RC) and susceptible to opposing priority. It is forced to choose between a Focus Sash set, which lacks power, or a Life Orb set, which has no chance of switching into the Pokemon Diglett wants to trap battle. Even with a Life Orb, too, Diglett is still quite weak, as it only reaches 15 Attack. Diglett is also easily revenge killed or setup on after trapping and KOing an opposing Pokemon, or set up on thanks to its mediocre stats.

[SET]
name: Offensive Trapper
move 1: Earthquake
move 2: Rock Slide
move 3: Sucker Punch / Sludge Bomb
move 4: Substitute / Memento / Sludge Bomb
item: Life Orb / Groundium Z
ability: Arena Trap
nature: Jolly
evs: 36 HP / 236 Atk / 236 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

Earthquake is a reliable STAB move that allows Diglett to take out the Electric-, Steel-, and Rock-types that it aims to trap. If Groundinium Z is run, Diglett can use Tectonic Rage, a powered-up version of Earthquake that which will take out Pokemon that Earthquake could not normally KO, such as fast Mienfoo variants and slightly weakened Foongus and Staryu. Rock Slide allows Diglett to take out weakened Pokemon that are immune to Earthquake, such as Vullaby. Sucker Punch is useful against weakened or frail Choice Scarf users, such as Chinchou, frail fast Pokemon, such as Abra, Isn't Earthquake stronger here and you're already faster anyway? (70 BP Sucker * SE = 140; 100 BP EQ * STAB = 150) Replace with another Pokemon if I'm correct and slower priority users, such as Doduo. Sludge Bomb is an alternative that lets Diglett trap Cottonee, (RC) and deal decent damage to other Grass-type Pokemon that aim to revenge kill it. Substitute is useful because it allows Diglett to play mind games with Sucker Punch users such as Pawniard, (RC) and, (AC) has other situational uses such as giving potentially, gives Diglett free turns against pokemon foes Choice-locked into Electric-type moves. Memento lets Diglett give a partner a free setup opportunity against the foe of its choice, I think the clarification is important here, if you disagree this change is a bit more optional with the opponent unable to switch out. Sludge Bomb remains an option in this slot, giving Diglett the ability to trap the Pokemon mentioned above. Stealth Rock can be used as well on teams that need Stealth Rocks it, as Diglett can use it after trapping and taking out a Pokemon.

Set Details
========

The given EV spread maximizes Diglett's Attack and Speed, with the remaining EVs giving Diglett an extra point in HP. With maximum Speed investment and a Jolly nature, Diglett hits 20 Speed, outspeeding or tying with the entire unboosted metagame. A Life Orb allows Diglett to hit as hard as possible, letting it reliably KO the Pokemon it aims to KO. Alternatively, Groundnium Z can be run, which costs Diglett general power but allows it to more reliably trap some Pokemon that can take a standard Life Orb Earthquake. Arena Trap allows Diglett to be the metagame's top revenge killer, as it keeps grounded opponents from switching out, allowing Diglett to KO them.

Usage Tips
========

Diglett should be used to trap and revenge kill specific Pokemon throughout a match. It should almost never be switched into attacks, due to its frailty, but instead brought in by a slow pivot or after the opponent KOes a Pokemon. Scout out opposing Pokemon that may or may not be equipped with a Choice Scarf early on, as Pokemon such as Chinchou and Magnemite that Diglett can often trap can also surprise and outspeed it with a Choice Scarf. If a foe is equipped with a Choice Scarf, Diglett should wait until it is within range of a Sucker Punch KO before trapping it. Be aware that, even with a Life Orb, Diglett is not particularly powerful, and with a Groundnium Z is even less so when not using Tectonic Rage. Thus, be careful of opposing Pokemon that could come in after Diglett KOes a Pokemon and use it as setup bait, including Timburr, Snivy, and Pumpkaboo-S. If Groundium Z is run, it should be used to power up Earthquake once, when Diglett needs to provide a KO for its team that Diglett's other coverage moves cannot provide. After getting the KOs it needs, Diglett can abuse its high speed to get off a Memento or Stealth Rock before being KOed.

Team Options
========

Pokemon that appreciate Diglett's ability to remove Rock-, Steel-, Fire-, and Electric-type foes make the most obvious partners. Flying-types (AH) such as Vullaby and Rufflet appreciate Diglett dealing with all of these, as do Normal-types (AH) such as Aipom. Fairy-types, (AH; RC) such as Spritzee, which appreciate Diglett's ability to remove Poison- and Steel-types, make good partners, as do Grass-types, such as Snivy and Pumpkaboo-S, which appreciate the removal of Fire-, Steel-, (AC) and Poison-types, also make good partners. Slow pivots that can bring Diglett in safely make good partners as well. Mienfoo is an one such option that also appreciates Diglett's ability to remove Ponyta, (RC) and Poison-types, (AH) significantly damage most Fairy-types, and KO Cottonee if Diglett is running Sludge Bomb. Chinchou also pairs fairly well with Diglett, as Diglett can trap opposing Chinchou for it to pivot more easily. If Diglett is running Groundinium Z, Pokemon that appreciate its ability to KO bulky Fighting-types with Tectonic Rage make good partners, especially Carvanha and Scraggy. Pokemon that can take on the bulky Flying-types that don't mind Rock Slide are good partners for Diglett, especially Electric-types such as Elekid and Magnemite. Entry hazard support from the likes of Onix or Ferroseed helps Diglett safely secure more KOs, (RC) and can break Magnemite's Sturdy to allow Diglett to trap it more safely. Similarly, Knock Off users, including Mienfoo and Pawniard, help Diglett secure more KOs it couldn't get otherwise by removing Eviolites and Berry Juices from foes, and can also remove Choice Scarves to help Diglett trap Pokemon such as Magnemite and Chinchou. Sticky Web setters, specifically Surskit, help Diglett by allowing it to outspeed grounded Choice Scarf Pokemon and trap them reliably.

[SET]
name: Focus Sash
move 1: Earthquake
move 2: Sucker Punch / Memento
move 3: Rock Slide / Sludge Bomb
move 4: Memento / Reversal / Stealth Rock
item: Focus Sash
ability: Arena Trap
nature: Jolly
evs: 36 HP / 236 Atk / 236 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

Earthquake is a fairly powerful STAB move that allows Diglett to take out most Rock-, Steel-, Fire-, and Electric-type Pokemon. Sucker Punch gives Diglett a form of priority to outspeed and take out weakened priority users, such as Doduo. Memento can be used instead so that Diglett can give a teammate a setup opportunity after it is weakened itself. Rock Slide allows Diglett to hit Flying-types and other Pokemon that resist Earthquake. Sludge Bomb is an alternative that does a fair amount of damage to Grass-types, specifically Cottonee. Memento can also be used in the final moveslot; if it is not, however, Reversal gives Diglett an extremely powerful attack that hits Pokemon such as Scraggy super effectively after it survives an attack using its Focus Sash, and Stealth Rock can give a team a Stealth Rock setter if it can't fit the move in elsewhere.

Set Details
========

Diglett's Attack and Speed are maximized to enable it to revenge kill as best it can. The remaining EVs are put into HP, boosting it by one point. With 236 Speed EVs and a Jolly nature, Diglett hits 20 Speed, outspeeding or tying with every unboosted LC Pokemon. A Focus Sash lets Diglett safely switch in on one attack and use its Speed to outspeed and take out the foe. Arena Trap is the preferred ability because it keeps Diglett's foes from switching out, making it an extremely effective revenge killer.

Usage Tips
========

Diglett should be brought in against a Pokemon it can trap to remove it from the match. If entry hazards are up or Diglett's Focus Sash is no longer intact, it shouldn't be switched in at all, but instead saved as a revenge killer only. If Diglett's sash item will remain intact, it can come in safely against a Pokemon it can hit super effectively with Earthquake, take a hit with Focus Sash, and KO. Scouting for opposing Choice Scarf users is helpful, as Pokemon that Focus Sash Diglett could normally beat, such as Pawniard and Chinchou, cannot be switched into if they are equipped with a Choice Scarf. Be cautious of the fact that Diglett is not particularly strong, and can become setup bait for Pokemon it doesn't hit super effectively with Earthquake. Bulkier setup sweepers, including Nasty Plot and Z-Mirror Move Vullaby variants, Scraggy, Shellder, and Snivy can be especially troubling. If Diglett's Focus Sash is intact, it can act as a last-ditch stop to setup sweepers such as Omanyte, either by KOing them or using Memento to lower their attacking stats.

Team Options
========

Focus Sash Diglett is the best option on teams that need Diglett to be able to take a single hit and take out a foe. Hazard control is absolutely necessary for this Diglett set to perform its role effectively, as hazards will break its Focus Sash and limit its overall effectiveness. Staryu and Drilbur can both use Rapid Spin to remove hazards, and Vullaby can use Defog. Diglett is appreciated by anything that appreciates its ability to remove enjoys the removal of Rock-, Steel-, Fire-, and Electric-types. Vullaby, Rufflet, and Doduo appreciate Diglett taking out Rock- and Steel-types, Chinchou appreciates its ability to take out opposing Electric-types, and Grass-type attackers such as Snivy appreciate its ability to take out Steel-, Fire-, and Poison-types. Diglett also appreciates support from strong attackers, such as Abra and Timburr, to help it get KOs despite its mediocre Attack stat by softening up the opposition. Strong attackers, such as Abra and Timburr, can soften up opposing Pokemon simply by attacking. Knock Off support from the likes of Mienfoo, Pawniard, and Cottonee, also weakens opposing teams by removing foes' Eviolites for Diglett to deal with more easily. Entry hazard support is appreciated as well, with Pokemon such as Onix and Omanyte performing this role well. Diglett's Rock Slide is quite weak, so Pokemon that can weaken bulky Flying-types, which are immune to Earthquake, is appreciated. Electric- and Rock-type Pokemon provide this support well. If Memento is run, Pokemon that can take advantage of Memento support, such as Shellder and Zigzagoon, make good partners. Lastly, Sticky Web support from Surskit allows Diglett to outpseed even Choice Scarf users, (RC) and more reliably trap foes for its team.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============

Diglett should not attempt to use Sand Force, as it makes a poor sand sweeper after the initial surprise value due to its susceptibility to revenge killing, poor power even with a Sand Force boost, and the fact that it is outclassed by Alolan Diglett in this role. Beat Up is an option on either Diglett set to reliably KO sash Abra on teams that need Abra removed but can't run a Pursuit trapper. It also can be used against Weak Armor Pokemon to lower their Defense stat for a teammate to revenge kill. Pursuit is a usable move on teams that really need Gastly removed. Shadow Claw is an option that hits Gastly without forcing Diglett into Sucker Punch mindgames, but hits little else. Similarly, Aerial Ace gives Diglett a way to hit Grass-types, (AC) but it is extremely weak and has little general use. Choice Scarf Diglett becomes among the fastest Pokemon in the metagame, and can surprise and trap other Choice Scarf users such as Magnemite and Chinchou, but Diglett then becomes setup bait very quickly. An Eviolite set can be used to take weak attacks from Choice Scarf Magnemite, (RC) among others, but Diglett will still get KOed by most attacks. Finally, Diglett can use Sunny Day to act as an alternate weather setter for sun teams, but this comes at the expense of a utility move such as Memento or a coverage move such as Rock Slide.

Checks and Counters
===================

**Flying-types**: Flying-type (AH) Pokemon are immune to Arena Trap, so Diglett cannot trap them, and they are immune to Diglett's STAB. Some, such as Vullaby, do not take significant damage from Diglett's attacks even if they do choose to stay in, and others, such as Doduo, can KO Diglett with powerful priority attacks.

**Revenge Killers**: Strong priority and Choice Scarf Pokemon can move before Diglett and easily take advantage of its low defenses to remove it from a match. Corphish, Pawniard, and Doduo are all common priority users that threaten Diglett.

**Grass-types**: I always try to put all the x-type sections together but that's semantics *shrug* Grass-type (AH) Pokemon such as Snivy, Pumpkaboo, and Foongus can all easily KO Diglett, and the former two can use it as setup bait, with Snivy able to gain Special Attack boosts and potentially initiate a sweep just by KOing Diglett with Leaf Storm. Cottonee can also check Diglett if it is not running Sludge Bomb. However, these Pokemon are usually limited to revenge killing Diglett due to Arena Trap.

**Bulky Pokemon**: Many bulky Pokemon, (RC) including Spritzee, Slowpoke, and Timburr, are not KOed by Diglett's attacks and can easily KO in return. Corphish and Shellder are especially threatening, as they are bulky enough to take Diglett's attacks, and can set up and initiate a sweep in return.
 
d6EBu3D.gif


remove
add / fix (comments); (AC=add comma; RC=remove comma; SC=semicolon)
GP 2/2
[OVERVIEW]

Despite poor defensive stats and mediocre offensive stats, Diglett is one of the defining Pokemon of the Little Cup metagame thanks to its ability (RC) Arena Trap, which allows it to revenge kill grounded Pokemon without giving them the option to switch out. Diglett is helped in its revenge killing by a high Speed stat, which allows it to tie for the fastest unboosted Pokemon in the metagame, and a useful offensive typing that gives it super effective STAB coverage on a wide variety of Pokemon. Its moveset is also somewhat customizable, with its movepool including options such as Sucker Punch and Sludge Bomb, allowing it to, for the most part, trap and take on whatever Pokemon its team needs removed. A wide variety of support moves are also at its disposal, allowing Diglett to support its team after trapping the Pokemon it aims to eliminate.

However, Diglett's poor defensive stats leave it unable to safely switch into the Pokemon it aims to trap and susceptible to opposing priority. It is forced to choose between a Focus Sash set, which lacks power, or a Life Orb set, which has no chance of switching into battle. Even with a Life Orb, Diglett is still quite weak, as it only reaches 15 Attack. Diglett is also easily revenge killed or setup set up on after trapping and KOing an opposing Pokemon thanks to its mediocre stats.

[SET]
name: Offensive Trapper
move 1: Earthquake
move 2: Rock Slide
move 3: Sucker Punch / Sludge Bomb
move 4: Substitute / Memento / Sludge Bomb
item: Life Orb / Groundium Z
ability: Arena Trap
nature: Jolly
evs: 36 HP / 236 Atk / 236 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

Earthquake is a reliable STAB move that allows Diglett to take out the Electric-, Steel-, and Rock-types that it aims to trap. If Groundium Z is run, Diglett can use Tectonic Rage, a powered-up version of Earthquake which that will take out Pokemon that Earthquake could not normally KO, such as fast Mienfoo variants and slightly weakened Foongus and Staryu. Rock Slide allows Diglett to take out weakened Pokemon that are immune to Earthquake, such as Vullaby. Sucker Punch is useful against weakened or frail Choice Scarf users, such as Chinchou and slower priority users, such as Doduo. Sludge Bomb is an alternative that lets Diglett trap Cottonee and deal decent damage to other Grass-type Pokemon that aim to revenge kill it. Substitute is useful because it allows Diglett to play mind games with Sucker Punch users such as Pawniard and, potentially, gives Diglett free turns against foes Choice-locked into Electric-type moves. Memento lets Diglett give a partner a free setup opportunity against the foe of its choice, with the opponent unable to switch out. Sludge Bomb remains an option in this slot, giving Diglett the ability to trap the Pokemon mentioned above. Stealth Rock can be used as well on teams that need it, as Diglett can use it after trapping and taking out a Pokemon.

Set Details
========

The given EV spread maximizes Diglett's Attack and Speed, with the remaining EVs giving Diglett an extra point in HP. With maximum Speed investment and a Jolly nature, Diglett hits 20 Speed, outspeeding or tying with the entire unboosted metagame. A Life Orb allows Diglett to hit as hard as possible, letting it reliably KO the Pokemon it aims to KO. Alternatively, Groundium Z can be run, which costs Diglett general power but allows it to more reliably trap some Pokemon that can take a Life Orb-boosted Earthquake. Arena Trap allows Diglett to be the metagame's top revenge killer, as it keeps grounded opponents targets from switching out, allowing Diglett to KO them.

Usage Tips
========

Diglett should be used to trap and revenge kill specific Pokemon throughout a match. It should almost never be switched into attacks, due to its frailty, but instead brought in by a slow pivot or after the opponent KOes a Pokemon. Scout out opposing Pokemon that may be equipped with a Choice Scarf early on, as Pokemon such as Chinchou and Magnemite that Diglett can often trap can also surprise and outspeed it with a Choice Scarf. If a foe is equipped with a Choice Scarf, Diglett should wait until it is within range of a Sucker Punch KO before trapping it. Be aware that, even with a Life Orb, Diglett is not particularly powerful (RC) and with a Groundium Z is even less so when not using Tectonic Rage. Thus, be careful of opposing Pokemon that could come in after Diglett KOes a Pokemon and use it as setup bait, including Timburr, Snivy, and Pumpkaboo-S. If Groundium Z is run, it should be used to power up Earthquake once, when Diglett needs to provide a KO for its team that Diglett's other coverage moves cannot provide. After getting the KOs it needs, Diglett can use its high speed to get off a Memento or Stealth Rock before being KOed.

Team Options
========

Pokemon that appreciate Diglett's ability to remove Rock-, Steel-, Fire-, and Electric-type foes make the most obvious partners. Flying-types such as Vullaby and Rufflet appreciate Diglett dealing with all of these, as do Normal-types such as Aipom. Fairy-types such as Spritzee, which appreciate Diglett's ability to remove Poison- and Steel-types, make good partners, as do Grass-types, such as Snivy and Pumpkaboo-S, which appreciate the removal of Fire-, Steel-, and Poison-types. Slow pivots that can bring Diglett in safely make good partners as well. Mienfoo is one such option that also appreciates Diglett's ability to remove Ponyta and Poison-types, significantly damage most Fairy-types, and KO Cottonee if running Sludge Bomb. Chinchou also pairs fairly well with Diglett, as Diglett can trap opposing Chinchou for it to pivot more easily. If Diglett is running Groundium Z, Pokemon that appreciate its ability to KO bulky Fighting-types with Tectonic Rage make good partners, especially Carvanha and Scraggy. Pokemon that can take on the bulky Flying-types that don't mind Rock Slide are good partners for Diglett, especially Electric-types such as Elekid and Magnemite. Entry hazard support from the likes of Onix or Ferroseed helps Diglett safely secure more KOs and can break Magnemite's Sturdy to allow Diglett to trap it more safely. Similarly, Knock Off users, including Mienfoo and Pawniard, help Diglett secure more KOs it couldn't get otherwise by removing Eviolites and Berry Juices from foes, and can also remove Choice Scarves to help Diglett trap Pokemon such as Magnemite and Chinchou. Sticky Web setters, specifically Surskit, help Diglett by allowing it to outspeed grounded Choice Scarf Pokemon and trap them reliably.

[SET]
name: Focus Sash
move 1: Earthquake
move 2: Sucker Punch / Memento
move 3: Rock Slide / Sludge Bomb
move 4: Memento / Reversal / Stealth Rock
item: Focus Sash
ability: Arena Trap
nature: Jolly
evs: 36 HP / 236 Atk / 236 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

Earthquake is a fairly powerful STAB move that allows Diglett to take out most Rock-, Steel-, Fire-, and Electric-type Pokemon. Sucker Punch gives Diglett a form of priority to outspeed and take out weakened priority users, such as Doduo. Memento can be used instead so that Diglett can give a teammate a setup opportunity after it is weakened itself. Rock Slide allows Diglett to hit Flying-types and other Pokemon that resist Earthquake. Sludge Bomb is an alternative that does a fair amount of damage to Grass-types, specifically Cottonee. Memento can also be used in the final moveslot; if it is not, however, Reversal gives Diglett an extremely powerful attack that hits Pokemon such as Scraggy super effectively after it survives an attack using its Focus Sash, and Stealth Rock can give a team a Stealth Rock setter if it can't fit the move in elsewhere.

Set Details
========

Diglett's Attack and Speed are maximized to enable it to revenge kill as best it can. The remaining EVs are put into HP, boosting it by one point. With 236 Speed EVs and a Jolly nature, Diglett hits 20 Speed, outspeeding or tying with every unboosted LC Pokemon. A Focus Sash lets Diglett safely switch in on one attack and use its Speed to outspeed and take out the foe. Arena Trap is the preferred ability because it keeps Diglett's foes from switching out, making it an extremely effective revenge killer.

Usage Tips
========

Diglett should be brought in against a Pokemon it can trap to remove it from the match. If entry hazards are up or Diglett's Focus Sash is no longer intact, it shouldn't be switched in at all, but instead saved as a revenge killer only. If Diglett's item will remain intact, it can come in safely against a Pokemon it can hit super effectively with Earthquake, take a hit with Focus Sash, and KO. Scouting for opposing Choice Scarf users is helpful, as Pokemon that Focus Sash Diglett could normally beat, such as Pawniard and Chinchou, cannot be switched into if they are equipped with a Choice Scarf. Be cautious of the fact that Diglett is not particularly strong (RC) and can become setup bait for Pokemon it doesn't hit super effectively with Earthquake. Bulkier setup sweepers, including Nasty Plot and Z-Mirror Move Vullaby variants, Scraggy, Shellder, and Snivy can be especially troubling. If Diglett's Focus Sash is intact, it can act as a last-ditch stop to setup sweepers such as Omanyte, either by KOing them or by using Memento to lower their attacking stats.

Team Options
========

Focus Sash Diglett is the best option on teams that need Diglett to be able to take a single hit and take out a foe. Hazard control is absolutely necessary for this Diglett set to perform its role effectively, as entry hazards will break its Focus Sash and limit its overall effectiveness. Staryu and Drilbur can both use Rapid Spin to remove hazards, and Vullaby can use Defog. Diglett is appreciated by anything that enjoys the removal of Rock-, Steel-, Fire-, and Electric-types. Vullaby, Rufflet, and Doduo appreciate Diglett taking out Rock- and Steel-types, Chinchou appreciates its ability to take out opposing Electric-types, and Grass-type attackers such as Snivy appreciate its ability to take out Steel-, Fire-, and Poison-types. Diglett also appreciates support from strong attackers, such as Abra and Timburr, to help it get KOs despite its mediocre Attack stat by softening up the opposition. Knock Off support from the likes of Mienfoo, Pawniard, and Cottonee (RC) also weakens opposing teams by removing foes' Eviolites for Diglett to deal with more easily. Entry hazard support is appreciated as well, with Pokemon such as Onix and Omanyte performing this role well. Diglett's Rock Slide is quite weak, so Pokemon that can weaken bulky Flying-types, which are immune to Earthquake, is appreciated. Electric- and Rock-type Pokemon provide this support well. If Memento is run, Pokemon that can take advantage of Memento support, such as Shellder and Zigzagoon, make good partners. Lastly, Sticky Web support from Surskit allows Diglett to outpseed outspeed even Choice Scarf users and more reliably trap foes for its team.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============

Diglett should not attempt to use Sand Force, as it makes a poor sand sweeper after the initial surprise value due to its susceptibility to revenge killing, poor power even with a Sand Force boost, and the fact that it is outclassed by Alolan Diglett in this role. Beat Up is an option on either Diglett set to reliably KO Focus Sash Abra on teams that need Abra removed but can't run a Pursuit trapper. It also can be used against Weak Armor Pokemon to lower their Defense stat for a teammate to revenge kill. Pursuit is a usable move on teams that really need Gastly removed. Shadow Claw is an option that hits Gastly without forcing Diglett into Sucker Punch mindgames (RC) but hits little else. Similarly, Aerial Ace gives Diglett a way to hit Grass-types, but it is extremely weak and has little general use. Choice Scarf Diglett becomes is among the fastest Pokemon in the metagame (RC) and can surprise and trap other Choice Scarf users such as Magnemite and Chinchou, but Diglett then becomes setup bait very quickly. An Eviolite set can be used to take weak attacks from Choice Scarf Magnemite among others, but Diglett will still get KOed by most attacks. Finally, Diglett can use Sunny Day to act as an alternate weather setter for sun teams, but this comes at the expense of a utility move such as Memento or a coverage move such as Rock Slide.

Checks and Counters
===================

**Flying-types**: Flying-type Pokemon are immune to Arena Trap, so Diglett cannot trap them, and they are immune to Diglett's STAB. Some, such as Vullaby, do not take significant damage from Diglett's attacks even if they do choose to stay in, and others, such as Doduo, can KO Diglett with powerful priority attacks.

**Revenge Killers**: Strong priority and Choice Scarf Pokemon can move before Diglett and easily take advantage of its low defenses to remove it from a match. Corphish, Pawniard, and Doduo are all common priority users that threaten Diglett.

**Grass-types**: Grass-type Pokemon such as Snivy, Pumpkaboo, and Foongus can all easily KO Diglett, and the former two can use it as setup bait, with Snivy able to gain Special Attack boosts and potentially initiate a sweep just by KOing Diglett with Leaf Storm. Cottonee can also check Diglett if it is not running Sludge Bomb. However, these Pokemon are usually limited to revenge killing Diglett due to Arena Trap.

**Bulky Pokemon**: Many bulky Pokemon, (AC) including Spritzee, Slowpoke, and Timburr, are not KOed by Diglett's attacks and can easily KO in return. Corphish and Shellder are especially threatening, as they are bulky enough to take Diglett's attacks (RC) and can set up and initiate a sweep in return.
 
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