Raichu (GP 2/2)

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[Overview]

<p>Raichu has never been the strongest of attackers, and has consistently been relegated to the lowest tiers with each passing generation. Raichu gains a new toy in BW in the ability Lightningrod, generating a Special Attack boost when Raichu is hit by an Electric-type move. Additionally, Raichu's great Speed and high Special Attack stats are complemented by a diverse movepool, turning it into a decent sweeper. Unfortunately, Raichu is held back by its poor 60 / 55 / 80 defensive stats, which make it difficult to switch in. It is also hampered by its lack of overwhelming power, which means it has trouble breaking walls. Despite its flaws, Raichu is capable of severely denting the opposition with its few unique niches.</p>

[SET]
name: Nasty Plot
move 1: Nasty Plot
move 2: Thunderbolt
move 3: Hidden Power Ice
move 4: Encore / Grass Knot
item: Life Orb
ability: Lightningrod
nature: Timid
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>With its high Speed and Special Attack, Raichu can make use of its access to Nasty Plot quite well, easily facilitating a sweep. After a Nasty Plot, Raichu reaches 558 Special Attack, which lets it quickly break through opponents. Although Raichu's defensive stats make it difficult to boost comfortably, Encore can lock an opponent into a non-damaging move and give Raichu the free turn it needs to set up. Furthermore, Raichu gains free switch-ins on many other Electric-type Pokemon, such as Electabuzz and Rotom-S, whose STAB options activate Raichu's Lightningrod ability and grant it a free Special Attack boost.</p>

<p>Thunderbolt is Raichu's go-to move, being a naturally powerful move as well as an excellent STAB option. Hidden Power Ice provides the best coverage alongside Thunderbolt, as it grants Raichu the famed BoltBeam coverage, and hits key Pokemon that resist Thunderbolt, including Tangela, Torterra, and Dragonair. If necessary, one can forgo Encore in favour of Grass Knot in order to gain coverage on threats that can still handle the Electric / Ice combination, most notably Regirock, who is one of the heavier Pokemon in the game.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>Lightningrod is the de facto ability on any Raichu set, as it provides Raichu with its only immunity, as well as simultaneously boosting its offensive prowess. As Raichu will often be attaining Special Attack boosts, Timid is the nature of choice, allowing Raichu to outspeed several key threats, including Haunter and Jynx. The EV spread provided is straightforward: maximum Special Attack and Speed investment best engender Raichu's ability to sweep. In that vein, a Life Orb is always the best item to accompany the set, granting a crucial boost in power that ensures OHKOs on many Pokemon that would otherwise survive an attack. That said, Leftovers is an acceptable alternative, extending Raichu's lifespan while it attempts to sweep, as well as reducing its vulnerability to priority attackers.</p>

<p>Although Raichu is powerful after a Nasty Plot, it still requires some team support to facilitate a sweep. Eelektross is an excellent teammate as it can cripple opposing sweepers and walls with Thunder Wave and Toxic&emdash;it's also immune to Ground-type moves, Raichu's only weakness. Raichu also appreciates entry hazard and dual screen support, Cryogonal being the best at fulfilling the latter role. One can opt to use Focus Blast over Grass Knot for greater coverage, most notably on opposing Crygonal, who will fall to a Life Orb-boosted Focus Blast when Stealth Rock is up. Stealth Rock is also notable in allowing Raichu to take out Amoonguss with Hidden Power Ice. Toxic Spikes are also appreciated in order to wear down defensive threats, such as Regirock and Quagsire; Garbodor fits this role well. Wish and Rain Dance support are also possibilities that Raichu will benefit from. The former ensures that if Raichu survives an attack it will be set up at full health, also creating room for a coverage option, while the latter grants Raichu a perfectly accurate Thunder with which it can decimate opponents. Alomomola is notable for its ability to fulfill both of the above roles, while also benefitting the rest of the team.</p>

[SET]
name: Choice
move 1: Thunderbolt
move 2: Hidden Power Ice
move 3: Focus Blast
move 4: Volt Switch
item: Choice Scarf / Choice Specs
ability: Lightningrod
nature: Modest / Timid
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>Occasionally, Raichu yearns for the days of the original generation where it could power past the opposition, and this set provides it with a way to do just that! With either a Choice Scarf or a Choice Specs equipped, Raichu gains the ability to either outspeed almost any Pokemon in NU or to zap opponents with brute force, respectively. Thunderbolt and Volt Switch are both excellent STAB options; Thunderbolt being the more powerful of the two and allowing Raichu to sweep through weakened teams, whereas Volt Switch grants Raichu excellent scouting capabilities, maintaining momentum in the process. The crux of the set, however, is Raichu's Lightningrod ability, which pushes Raichu ahead of Electabuzz, whom Raichu would otherwise be inferior to. Lightningrod allows Raichu to counter opposing Volt Switches, absorb opposing paralysis attempts, and check general Electric-type attackers, gaining a Special Attack boost in the process. In order to take advantage of such a boost, Focus Blast and Hidden Power Ice are the coverage moves of choice, being strong neutral options and covering Rock-types, and Dragon- and Grass-types super effectively respectively.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>The EV spread is standard for a Choice attacker, Special Attack and Speed once again being maximized to provide optimum power output. The choice between Modest and Timid will often be based on the item of choice, Modest working well with Choice Scarf and Timid being the best nature with Choice Specs, although any combination will provide satisfactory results.</p>

<p>Swellow makes an excellent partner for this Raichu variant, as it is not only immune to Raichu's only weakness, but also draws in Electric-type attacks for Raichu to switch in on. Furthermore, they create a U-turn / Volt Switch core that will maintain momentum&mdash;each member of the pair also threatens the walls that hamper the other Pokemon. As Raichu will be switching frequently due to its Volt Switch usage, Rapid Spin support is crucial, as Raichu is vulnerable to all forms of passive damage. Cryogonal is thus a strong teammate, as it can provide a defensive pivot should Raichu need to switch out. Lastly, entry hazard support is always appreciated due to the switches Raichu can cause. Spikes from Cacturne are particularly useful in order to weaken the Ground-type Pokemon that are immune to Raichu's STAB, Cacturne itself being able to defeat those Pokemon.</p>

[Other Options]

<p>Although primarily a special attacker, Raichu is capable of using a SubPunch set, which when used alongside other physical moves, such as Volt Tackle or Iron Tail, and can quickly catch opponents off guard. A mixed SubPunch set is also viable, however for any set utilising Focus Punch it must be noted that the move is illegal alongside Lightningrod, forcing Raichu to use the less useful Static as its ability. Raichu's other offensive options, moves such as Signal Beam, Discharge, and Fake Out, all have their own situational uses but are rarely worth using over one of the main moveslots.</p>

<p>Its support movepool, however, is where Raichu carries most of its alternative moves, albeit ones that are most often illegal alongside Lightningrod. Light Screen can be used to provide Raichu and its teammates with a temporary buffer from special attacks, with Rain Dance similarly boosting teammates Water-type moves. Substitute and Agility are options that scout for status moves and boost Raichu's speed respectively, although Raichu will rarely be strong enough to make use of them. Raichu can also provide HP support in the form of Wish, which, while not particularly large, in Raichu's case is never unwelcome. Tickle and Knock Off are niche options that will frustrate the opponent, the former weakening both their Attack and Defense stats whereas the latter strips them of their held item. Finally, Magnet Rise is useful against Pokemon locked into Ground-type moves, turning Raichu's only weakness into an immunity.</p>

[Checks and Counters]

<p>Quagsire is one of the best counters to any Raichu set lacking Grass Knot, taking little from either of Raichu's coverage moves while also nullifying Raichu's Nasty plot boosts thanks to Quagsire's ability, Unaware. Regirock handles Raichu quite effectively, its natural bulk allowing it to tank even Focus Blasts without undue hardship; it can then retaliate with a STAB Stone Edge. Similarly, Probopass can take any attack bar Focus Blast from Raichu and can proceed to set up Stealth Rock before whittling Raichu down. Specially defensive Grass-type Pokemon such as Vileplume also handle Raichu well, often being able to outstall its attacks while avoiding the 2HKO from Hidden Power Ice.</p>

<p>Other, more niche Pokemon, such as Lightningrod Seaking, Motor Drive Zebstrika, and Volt Absorb Chinchou can all handle Raichu's attacking combo without difficulty, although these Pokemon should rarely be considered. Of far more concern are any strong physical attacker that can outspeed Raichu, including Pokemon such as Tauros and Swellow, as well as powerful Choice Scarf users that will be able to outspeed and OHKO Raichu with ease. Similarly, strong priority users, such as Absol, Gurdurr, and Swellow, can prey on Raichu's weak Defense stat and KO it with priority moves, such as Mach Punch and Sucker Punch.</p>
 

erisia

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When you write this up, you need to make sure that plenty of emphasis is put on how Lightningrod is useful for the Choice set, allowing Raichu to switch into Volt Switches (stealing momentum) and Thunder Waves (anti-paralysis support) as well as standard Electric moves. Without Lightningrod, the Choice set is outclassed by Electabuzz, who has better stats across the board, so it's probably necessary to hammer that point home.
 
Wait wait... I feel like there should be a SubNP set here somewhere. Sure, you don't get as good of coverage, but Substitute is great for scouting for scarfers, and hiding from Toxic, etc. Other QC input please?
 

blunder

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Maybe put up a Physical set like SubPunch?

Raichu (M) @ Leftovers
Trait: Static
EVs: 6 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spd
Jolly Nature (+Spd, -SAtk)
- Volt Tackle
- Focus Punch
- Encore
- Substitute

This is Kind of the only physical Set Raichu can use, Due to its decent speed, It can Encore a Pokemon into something and then get off a free SubPunch. I have found this useful against things like Sucker Punch Absol. Grass Knot could get a mention here for being able to OHKO Golem and do a nice chunk to Quagsire without any boosts
 
Because Lightningrod only raises Special Attack, any physical set is sorely outclassed, so probably OO material at best.
 

Komodo

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[Overview]

<p>HavingRaichu has never been the strongest of attackers, Raichuand has consistently been relegated to the lowest tiers with each passing generation. Raichu gains a new toy in BW, however, in the form of Lightningrod, which generatesing a Special Attack boost when Raichu is hit by an Electric-type move. Additionally, Raichu's great Speed and stronghigh Special Attack stats are more than enough to cause an opponent pause when Raichu enters play—to say nothing of its diverse movepoolcomplemented by a diverse movepool, turning it into a decent sweeper. Unfortunately, Raichu is held back by its poor 60 / 55 / 80 defensive stats, which make it difficult to switch in, as well as a lack of overwhelming power with which to break walls. Despite its flaws, Raichu is capable of severely denting the opposition with its few unique niches.</p>

[SET]
name: Nasty Plot
move 1: Nasty Plot
move 2: Thunderbolt
move 3: Hidden Power Ice
move 4: Encore / Grass Knot
item: Life Orb
ability: Lightningrod
nature: Timid
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>With its high Speed and Special Attack, Raichu can make use of its access to Nasty Plot quite well, easily facilitating a sweep. After onea Nasty Plot, Raichu reaches a 558 Special aAttack stat, which can quickly break through an opponent. Although Raichu's defensive stats make it difficult to boost without concern, Encore can lock an opponent into a non-damaging move and allowgive Raichu the free turn to set up that it needsit needs to set up. Furthermore, Raichu gains free switch-ins on many other Electric-type Pokemon, such as Electabuzz and Rotom-S, with their STAB options activating Raichu's Lightningrod ability and granting it a free Special Attack boost. Thunderbolt is Raichu's go-to move, being a naturally powerful move as well as an excellent STAB option. Hidden Power Ice provides the best coverage alongside Thunderbolt, the pair simulating the famed BoltBeam coverage, and hits key Pokemon that resist Thunderbolt, including Tangela, Torterra, and Dragonair. If necessary, one can forgo Encore in favour of Grass Knot in order to gain coverage on threats that can still handle the Electric / Ice combination, most notably Regirock as one of the heavier Pokemon in the game.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>Lightningrod is the de facto ability on any Raichu set, as it provides Raichu with its only immunity, as well as simultaneously boosting its offensive prowess. As Raichu will often be attaining Special Attack boosts, Timid is the nature of choice, allowing Raichu to outspeed several key threats, including Haunter and Jynx. The EV spread provided is straightforward: maximum Special Attack and Speed investment best engender Raichu's ability to sweep. In that vein, a Life Orb is always the best item to accompany the set, granting a crucial boost in power that ensures OHKOs on many Pokemon that would otherwise survive an attack. That said, Leftovers is an acceptable alternative, extending Raichu's lifespan while it attempts to sweep, as well as reducing its vulnerability to priority attackers.</p>

<p>Although Raichu is powerful after a Nasty Plot, it will still often requires some team support to effectively facilitate a sweep. Eelektross is an excellent teammate to Raichu for its ability to utilise Thunder Wave and Toxic for the purpose ofas it can cripplinge opposing sweepers and walls respectively that would otherwise threaten Raichuwith Thunder Wave and Toxic&emdash;not to mention its immunity to Ground, Raichu's only weakness. Raichu is also greatly assisted byappreciates entry hazard and Ddual Sscreen support, Cryogonal being the best at fulfilling the leatter role. Stealth Rock is particularly important, as it ensures OHKOs on Cryogonal and Amoonguss with Focus Blast and Hidden power Ice respectively, Focus Blast being another alternative option to Grass Knot as a coverage move. Toxic Spikes isare also appreciated in order to wear down defensive threats, such as Regirock and Quagsire; Garbodor fits this role well. Wish and Rain Dance support are also possibilities that Raichu will benefit from. The former ensures that if Raichu survives an attack it will be set up at full health, also creating room for a coverage option, while the latter grants Raichu a perfectly accurate Thunder with which it can decimate opponents. Alomomola is notable for its ability to fulfill both of the above roles, while also benefitting the rest of the team.</p>

[SET]
name: Choice
move 1: Thunderbolt
move 2: Hidden Power Ice
move 3: Focus Blast
move 4: Volt Switch
item: Choice Scarf / Choice Specs
ability: Lightningrod
nature: Modest / Timid
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>Occasionally, Raichu yearns for the days of the original generation where it could simply power past the opposition, and this side provides it with a way to do just that! With either a Choice Scarf or a Choice Specs equipped, Raichu gains the ability to either outspeed almost any Pokemon in NU or to zap opponents with brute force, respectively. Thunderbolt and Volt Switch are both excellent STAB options,; Thunderbolt being the more powerful of the two and allowing Raichu to sweep through weakened teams, whereas Volt Switch grants Raichu excellent scouting capabilities, maintaining momentum in the process. The crux of the set, however, is Raichu's Lightningrod ability, which pushes Raichu ahead of Electabuzz, whom Raichu would otherwise be inferior to. Lightningrod allows Raichu to counter opposing Volt Switches, absorb opposing paralysis attempts, and check general Electric-type attackers, gaining a Special Attack boost in the process. In order to take advantage of such a boost, Focus Blast and Hidden Power Ice are the coverage moves of choice, being strong neutral options and covering Rock-types, and Dragon- and Grass-types super effectively respectively.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>The EV spread is standard for a choice attacker, Special Attack and Speed once again being maximized to provide optimum power output. The choice between Modest and Timid will often be based on the item of choice, Modest working well with Choice Scarf and Timid being the best nature with Choice Specs, although any combination will provide satisfactory results. Swellow makes an excellent partner for this Raichu variant, as it is not only immune to Raichu's only weakness, but also draws in Electric-type attacks for Raichu to switch in on. Furthermore, they create a U-Turn / Volt Switch core that will maintain momentum, each of the pairing also threatening the walls that hamper the other Pokemon. As Raichu will be switching frequently due to its Volt Switch usage, Rapid Spin support is crucial as Raichu is vulnerable to all forms of passive damage. Cryogonal is thus a strong teammate, as it can provide a defensive pivot should Raichu need to switch out. Lastly, entry hazard support is always appreciated due to the switches Raichu can cause. Spikes from Cacturne are particularly usefull in order to weaken the Ground-type Pokemon that are immune to Raichu's STAB, Cacturne itself being able to defeat those Pokemon.</p>

[Other Options]

<p>Although primarily a Special Attacker, Raichu is capable of using a SubPunch set, which when used alongside other physical moves, such as Volt Tackle or Iron Tail, can quickly catch opponents off guard. A mixed SubPunch set is also viable, however for any set utilising Focus Punch it must be noted that the move is illegal alongside Lightningrod, forcing Raichu to use the less useful Static as its ability. Raichu's other offensive options, moves such as Signal Beam, Discharge, and Fake Out, all have their own situational uses but are rarely worth using over one of the main moveslots. Its support movepool, however, is where Raichu carries most of its alternative moves, albeit ones that are most often illegal alongside Lightningrod. Light Screen can be used to provide Raichu and its teammates with a temporary buffer from special attacks, with Rain Dance similarly boosting teammates Water-type moves. Substitute and Agility are options that scout for status moves and boost Raichu's speed respectively, although Raichu will rarely be strong enough to make use of them. Raichu can also provide HP support in the form of Wish, which while not particularly large in Raichu's case is never unwelcome. Tickle and Knock Off are niche options that will frustrate the opponent, the former weakening both their Attack and Defense stats whereas the latter strips them of their held item.</p>

[Checks and Counters]

<p>Quagsire is one of the best counters to any Raichu set lacking Grass Knot, taking little for either of Rachu's coverage moves while also nullifying Raichu's Nasty plot boosts thanks to Quagsire's ability, Unaware. Regirock handles Raichu quite effectively, its natural bulk allowing it to tank even Focus blasts without undue hardship, retaliating with a STAB Stone Edge in return. Similarly, Probopass will take any attack bar Focus Blast from Raichu and can proceed to set up Stealth Rock before whittling Raichu down. Specially Defensive Grass-type Pokemon such as Vileplume also handle Raichu well, often being able to outstall its attacks while avoiding the 2HKO from Hidden Power Ice. Other, more niche Pokemon, such as Lightningrod Seaking, Motor Drive Zebstrika, and Volt Absorb Chinchou can all handle Raichu's attaking combo without difficulty, although these Pokemon should rarely be considered. Of far more concern are any strong physical attacker that can outspeed Raichu, including Pokemon such as Tauros and Swellow, as well as powerful Choice Scarf users that will be able to outspeed and OHKO Raichu with ease. Similarly, strong priority users can prey on Raichu's weak defense stat and KO it with common priority moves Mach Punch and/or Sucker Punch.</p>


WIP

[Overview]

<p>Raichu has never been the strongest of attackers, and has consistently been relegated to the lowest tiers with each passing generation. Raichu gains a new toy in BW, Lightningrod, generating a Special Attack boost when Raichu is hit by an Electric-type move. Additionally, Raichu's great Speed and high Special Attack stats are complemented by a diverse movepool, turning it into a decent sweeper. Unfortunately, Raichu is held back by its poor 60 / 55 / 80 defensive stats, which make it difficult to switch in, as well as a lack of overwhelming power to break walls. Despite its flaws, Raichu is capable of severely denting the opposition with its few unique niches.</p>

[SET]
name: Nasty Plot
move 1: Nasty Plot
move 2: Thunderbolt
move 3: Hidden Power Ice
move 4: Encore / Grass Knot
item: Life Orb
ability: Lightningrod
nature: Timid
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>With its high Speed and Special Attack, Raichu can make use of its access to Nasty Plot quite well, easily facilitating a sweep. After a Nasty Plot, Raichu reaches 558 Special Attack, which can quickly break through an opponent. Although Raichu's defensive stats make it difficult to boost without concern, Encore can lock an opponent into a non-damaging move and give Raichu the free turn it needs to set up. Furthermore, Raichu gains free switch-ins on many other Electric-type Pokemon, such as Electabuzz and Rotom-S, with their STAB options activating Raichu's Lightningrod ability and granting it a free Special Attack boost. Thunderbolt is Raichu's go-to move, being a naturally powerful move as well as an excellent STAB option. Hidden Power Ice provides the best coverage alongside Thunderbolt, the pair simulating the famed BoltBeam coverage, and hits key Pokemon that resist Thunderbolt, including Tangela, Torterra, and Dragonair. If necessary, one can forgo Encore in favour of Grass Knot in order to gain coverage on threats that can still handle the Electric / Ice combination, most notably Regirock as one of the heavier Pokemon in the game.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>Lightningrod is the de facto ability on any Raichu set, as it provides Raichu with its only immunity, as well as simultaneously boosting its offensive prowess. As Raichu will often be attaining Special Attack boosts, Timid is the nature of choice, allowing Raichu to outspeed several key threats, including Haunter and Jynx. The EV spread provided is straightforward: maximum Special Attack and Speed investment best engender Raichu's ability to sweep. In that vein, a Life Orb is always the best item to accompany the set, granting a crucial boost in power that ensures OHKOs on many Pokemon that would otherwise survive an attack. That said, Leftovers is an acceptable alternative, extending Raichu's lifespan while it attempts to sweep, as well as reducing its vulnerability to priority attackers.</p>

<p>Although Raichu is powerful after a Nasty Plot, it still requires some team support to facilitate a sweep. Eelektross is an excellent teammate as it can cripple opposing sweepers and walls with Thunder Wave and Toxic&emdash;not to mention its immunity to Ground, Raichu's only weakness. Raichu also appreciates entry hazard and dual screen support, Cryogonal being the best at fulfilling the latter role. Stealth Rock is particularly important, as it ensures OHKOs on Cryogonal and Amoonguss with Focus Blast and Hidden power Ice respectively, Focus Blast being another alternative option to Grass Knot as a coverage move. Toxic Spikes are also appreciated in order to wear down defensive threats, such as Regirock and Quagsire; Garbodor fits this role well. Wish and Rain Dance support are also possibilities that Raichu will benefit from. The former ensures that if Raichu survives an attack it will be set up at full health, also creating room for a coverage option, while the latter grants Raichu a perfectly accurate Thunder with which it can decimate opponents. Alomomola is notable for its ability to fulfill both of the above roles, while also benefitting the rest of the team.</p>

[SET]
name: Choice
move 1: Thunderbolt
move 2: Hidden Power Ice
move 3: Focus Blast
move 4: Volt Switch
item: Choice Scarf / Choice Specs
ability: Lightningrod
nature: Modest / Timid
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>Occasionally, Raichu yearns for the days of the original generation where it could power past the opposition, and this side provides it with a way to do just that! With either a Choice Scarf or a Choice Specs equipped, Raichu gains the ability to either outspeed almost any Pokemon in NU or to zap opponents with brute force, respectively. Thunderbolt and Volt Switch are both excellent STAB options; Thunderbolt being the more powerful of the two and allowing Raichu to sweep through weakened teams, whereas Volt Switch grants Raichu excellent scouting capabilities, maintaining momentum in the process. The crux of the set, however, is Raichu's Lightningrod ability, which pushes Raichu ahead of Electabuzz, whom Raichu would otherwise be inferior to. Lightningrod allows Raichu to counter opposing Volt Switches, absorb opposing paralysis attempts, and check general Electric-type attackers, gaining a Special Attack boost in the process. In order to take advantage of such a boost, Focus Blast and Hidden Power Ice are the coverage moves of choice, being strong neutral options and covering Rock-types, and Dragon- and Grass-types super effectively respectively.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>The EV spread is standard for a choice attacker, Special Attack and Speed once again being maximized to provide optimum power output. The choice between Modest and Timid will often be based on the item of choice, Modest working well with Choice Scarf and Timid being the best nature with Choice Specs, although any combination will provide satisfactory results. Swellow makes an excellent partner for this Raichu variant, as it is not only immune to Raichu's only weakness, but also draws in Electric-type attacks for Raichu to switch in on. Furthermore, they create a U-Turn / Volt Switch core that will maintain momentum, each of the pairing also threatening the walls that hamper the other Pokemon. As Raichu will be switching frequently due to its Volt Switch usage, Rapid Spin support is crucial as Raichu is vulnerable to all forms of passive damage. Cryogonal is thus a strong teammate, as it can provide a defensive pivot should Raichu need to switch out. Lastly, entry hazard support is always appreciated due to the switches Raichu can cause. Spikes from Cacturne are particularly usefull in order to weaken the Ground-type Pokemon that are immune to Raichu's STAB, Cacturne itself being able to defeat those Pokemon.</p>

[Other Options]

<p>Although primarily a Special Attacker, Raichu is capable of using a SubPunch set, which when used alongside other physical moves, such as Volt Tackle or Iron Tail, can quickly catch opponents off guard. A mixed SubPunch set is also viable, however for any set utilising Focus Punch it must be noted that the move is illegal alongside Lightningrod, forcing Raichu to use the less useful Static as its ability. Raichu's other offensive options, moves such as Signal Beam, Discharge, and Fake Out, all have their own situational uses but are rarely worth using over one of the main moveslots. Its support movepool, however, is where Raichu carries most of its alternative moves, albeit ones that are most often illegal alongside Lightningrod. Light Screen can be used to provide Raichu and its teammates with a temporary buffer from special attacks, with Rain Dance similarly boosting teammates Water-type moves. Substitute and Agility are options that scout for status moves and boost Raichu's speed respectively, although Raichu will rarely be strong enough to make use of them. Raichu can also provide HP support in the form of Wish, which while not particularly large in Raichu's case is never unwelcome. Tickle and Knock Off are niche options that will frustrate the opponent, the former weakening both their Attack and Defense stats whereas the latter strips them of their held item.</p>

[Checks and Counters]

<p>Quagsire is one of the best counters to any Raichu set lacking Grass Knot, taking little for either of Rachu's coverage moves while also nullifying Raichu's Nasty plot boosts thanks to Quagsire's ability, Unaware. Regirock handles Raichu quite effectively, its natural bulk allowing it to tank even Focus blasts without undue hardship, retaliating with a STAB Stone Edge in return. Similarly, Probopass will take any attack bar Focus Blast from Raichu and can proceed to set up Stealth Rock before whittling Raichu down. Specially Defensive Grass-type Pokemon such as Vileplume also handle Raichu well, often being able to outstall its attacks while avoiding the 2HKO from Hidden Power Ice. Other, more niche Pokemon, such as Lightningrod Seaking, Motor Drive Zebstrika, and Volt Absorb Chinchou can all handle Raichu's attaking combo without difficulty, although these Pokemon should rarely be considered. Of far more concern are any strong physical attacker that can outspeed Raichu, including Pokemon such as Tauros and Swellow, as well as powerful Choice Scarf users that will be able to outspeed and OHKO Raichu with ease. Similarly, strong priority users can prey on Raichu's weak defense stat and KO it with common priority moves Mach Punch and/or Sucker Punch.</p>
 
working over komodo's check, as requested by Texas

[Overview]

<p>Raichu has never been the strongest of attackers, and has consistently been relegated to the lowest tiers with each passing generation. Raichu gains a new toy in BW, Lightningrod, generating a Special Attack boost when Raichu is hit by an Electric-type move. Additionally, Raichu's great Speed and high Special Attack stats are complemented by a diverse movepool, turning it into a decent sweeper. Unfortunately, Raichu is held back by its poor 60 / 55 / 80 defensive stats, which make it difficult to switch in, as well as aits lack of overwhelming power to, which means it has trouble breaking walls. Despite its flaws, Raichu is capable of severely denting the opposition with its few unique niches.</p>

[SET]
name: Nasty Plot
move 1: Nasty Plot
move 2: Thunderbolt
move 3: Hidden Power Ice
move 4: Encore / Grass Knot
item: Life Orb
ability: Lightningrod
nature: Timid
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>With its high Speed and Special Attack, Raichu can make use of its access to Nasty Plot quite well, easily facilitating a sweep. After a Nasty Plot, Raichu reaches 558 Special Attack, which canlets it quickly break through an opponent. Although Raichu's defensive stats make it difficult to boost without concerncomfortably, Encore can lock an opponent into a non-damaging move and give Raichu the free turn it needs to set up. Furthermore, Raichu gains free switch-ins on many other Electric-type Pokemon, such as Electabuzz and Rotom-S, with their STAB options activating Raichu's Lightningrod ability and granting it a free Special Attack boost. </p>

<p>
Thunderbolt is Raichu's go-to move, being a naturally powerful move as well as an excellent STAB option. Hidden Power Ice provides the best coverage alongside Thunderbolt, the pair simulatingas it grants Raichu the famed BoltBeam coverage, and hits key Pokemon that resist Thunderbolt, including Tangela, Torterra, and Dragonair. If necessary, one can forgo Encore in favour of Grass Knot in order to gain coverage on threats that can still handle the Electric / Ice combination, most notably Regirock a, who is one of the heavier Pokemon in the game.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>Lightningrod is the de facto ability on any Raichu set, as it provides Raichu with its only immunity, as well as simultaneously boosting its offensive prowess. As Raichu will often be attaining Special Attack boosts, Timid is the nature of choice, allowing Raichu to outspeed several key threats, including Haunter and Jynx. The EV spread provided is straightforward: maximum Special Attack and Speed investment best engender Raichu's ability to sweep. In that vein, a Life Orb is always the best item to accompany the set, granting a crucial boost in power that ensures OHKOs on many Pokemon that would otherwise survive an attack. That said, Leftovers is an acceptable alternative, extending Raichu's lifespan while it attempts to sweep, as well as reducing its vulnerability to priority attackers.</p>

<p>Although Raichu is powerful after a Nasty Plot, it still requires some team support to facilitate a sweep. Eelektross is an excellent teammate as it can cripple opposing sweepers and walls with Thunder Wave and Toxic&emdash;not to mention its immunity to Ground-type moves, Raichu's only weakness. Raichu also appreciates entry hazard and dual screen support, Cryogonal being the best at fulfilling the latter role. Stealth Rock is particularly important, as it ensures OHKOs on Cryogonal and Amoonguss with Focus Blast and Hidden pPower Ice respectively, Focus Blast being another alternative option to Grass Knot as a coverage move. Toxic Spikes are also appreciated in order to wear down defensive threats, such as Regirock and Quagsire; Garbodor fits this role well. Wish and Rain Dance support are also possibilities that Raichu will benefit from. The former ensures that if Raichu survives an attack it will be set up at full health, also creating room for a coverage option, while the latter grants Raichu a perfectly accurate Thunder with which it can decimate opponents. Alomomola is notable for its ability to fulfill both of the above roles, while also benefitting the rest of the team.</p>

[SET]
name: Choice
move 1: Thunderbolt
move 2: Hidden Power Ice
move 3: Focus Blast
move 4: Volt Switch
item: Choice Scarf / Choice Specs
ability: Lightningrod
nature: Modest / Timid
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>Occasionally, Raichu yearns for the days of the original generation where it could power past the opposition, and this side provides it with a way to do just that! With either a Choice Scarf or a Choice Specs equipped, Raichu gains the ability to either outspeed almost any Pokemon in NU or to zap opponents with brute force, respectively. Thunderbolt and Volt Switch are both excellent STAB options; Thunderbolt being the more powerful of the two and allowing Raichu to sweep through weakened teams, whereas Volt Switch grants Raichu excellent scouting capabilities, maintaining momentum in the process. The crux of the set, however, is Raichu's Lightningrod ability, which pushes Raichu ahead of Electabuzz, whom Raichu would otherwise be inferior to. Lightningrod allows Raichu to counter opposing Volt Switches, absorb opposing paralysis attempts, and check general Electric-type attackers, gaining a Special Attack boost in the process. In order to take advantage of such a boost, Focus Blast and Hidden Power Ice are the coverage moves of choice, being strong neutral options and covering Rock-types, and Dragon- and Grass-types super effectively respectively.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>The EV spread is standard for a cChoice attacker, Special Attack and Speed once again being maximized to provide optimum power output. The choice between Modest and Timid will often be based on the item of choice, Modest working well with Choice Scarf and Timid being the best nature with Choice Specs, although any combination will provide satisfactory results. </p>

<p>
Swellow makes an excellent partner for this Raichu variant, as it is not only immune to Raichu's only weakness, but also draws in Electric-type attacks for Raichu to switch in on. Furthermore, they create a U-Tturn / Volt Switch core that will maintain momentum, each of the pairing also threatening the walls that hamper the other Pokemon. As Raichu will be switching frequently due to its Volt Switch usage, Rapid Spin support is crucial as Raichu is vulnerable to all forms of passive damage. Cryogonal is thus a strong teammate, as it can provide a defensive pivot should Raichu need to switch out. Lastly, entry hazard support is always appreciated due to the switches Raichu can cause. Spikes from Cacturne are particularly usefull in order to weaken the Ground-type Pokemon that are immune to Raichu's STAB, Cacturne itself being able to defeat those Pokemon.</p>

[Other Options]

<p>Although primarily a Sspecial Aattacker, Raichu is capable of using a SubPunch set, which when used alongside other physical moves, such as Volt Tackle or Iron Tail, can quickly catch opponents off guard. A mixed SubPunch set is also viable, however for any set utilising Focus Punch it must be noted that the move is illegal alongside Lightningrod, forcing Raichu to use the less useful Static as its ability. Raichu's other offensive options, moves such as Signal Beam, Discharge, and Fake Out, all have their own situational uses but are rarely worth using over one of the main moveslots. </p>

<p>
Its support movepool, however, is where Raichu carries most of its alternative moves, albeit ones that are most often illegal alongside Lightningrod. Light Screen can be used to provide Raichu and its teammates with a temporary buffer from special attacks, with Rain Dance similarly boosting teammates Water-type moves. Substitute and Agility are options that scout for status moves and boost Raichu's speed respectively, although Raichu will rarely be strong enough to make use of them. Raichu can also provide HP support in the form of Wish, which while not particularly large in Raichu's case is never unwelcome. Tickle and Knock Off are niche options that will frustrate the opponent, the former weakening both their Attack and Defense stats whereas the latter strips them of their held item.</p>

[Checks and Counters]

<p>Quagsire is one of the best counters to any Raichu set lacking Grass Knot, taking little for either of Raichu's coverage moves while also nullifying Raichu's Nasty plot boosts thanks to Quagsire's ability, Unaware. Regirock handles Raichu quite effectively, its natural bulk allowing it to tank even Focus bBlasts without undue hardship,; it can then retaliatinge with a STAB Stone Edge in return. Similarly, Probopass willcan take any attack bar Focus Blast from Raichu and can proceed to set up Stealth Rock before whittling Raichu down. Specially Ddefensive Grass-type Pokemon such as Vileplume also handle Raichu well, often being able to outstall its attacks while avoiding the 2HKO from Hidden Power Ice. </p>

<p>
Other, more niche Pokemon, such as Lightningrod Seaking, Motor Drive Zebstrika, and Volt Absorb Chinchou can all handle Raichu's attacking combo without difficulty, although these Pokemon should rarely be considered. Of far more concern are any strong physical attacker that can outspeed Raichu, including Pokemon such as Tauros and Swellow, as well as powerful Choice Scarf users that will be able to outspeed and OHKO Raichu with ease. Similarly, strong priority users, such as <examples>, can prey on Raichu's weak dDefense stat and KO it with common priority moves, namely Mach Punch and/or Sucker Punch.</p>
[Overview]

<p>Raichu has never been the strongest of attackers, and has consistently been relegated to the lowest tiers with each passing generation. Raichu gains a new toy in BW, Lightningrod, generating a Special Attack boost when Raichu is hit by an Electric-type move. Additionally, Raichu's great Speed and high Special Attack stats are complemented by a diverse movepool, turning it into a decent sweeper. Unfortunately, Raichu is held back by its poor 60 / 55 / 80 defensive stats, which make it difficult to switch in, as well as its lack of overwhelming power, which means it has trouble breaking walls. Despite its flaws, Raichu is capable of severely denting the opposition with its few unique niches.</p>

[SET]
name: Nasty Plot
move 1: Nasty Plot
move 2: Thunderbolt
move 3: Hidden Power Ice
move 4: Encore / Grass Knot
item: Life Orb
ability: Lightningrod
nature: Timid
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>With its high Speed and Special Attack, Raichu can make use of its access to Nasty Plot quite well, easily facilitating a sweep. After a Nasty Plot, Raichu reaches 558 Special Attack, which lets it quickly break through an opponent. Although Raichu's defensive stats make it difficult to boost comfortably, Encore can lock an opponent into a non-damaging move and give Raichu the free turn it needs to set up. Furthermore, Raichu gains free switch-ins on many other Electric-type Pokemon, such as Electabuzz and Rotom-S, with their STAB options activating Raichu's Lightningrod ability and granting it a free Special Attack boost.</p>

<p>Thunderbolt is Raichu's go-to move, being a naturally powerful move as well as an excellent STAB option. Hidden Power Ice provides the best coverage alongside Thunderbolt, as it grants Raichu the famed BoltBeam coverage, and hits key Pokemon that resist Thunderbolt, including Tangela, Torterra, and Dragonair. If necessary, one can forgo Encore in favour of Grass Knot in order to gain coverage on threats that can still handle the Electric / Ice combination, most notably Regirock, who is one of the heavier Pokemon in the game.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>Lightningrod is the de facto ability on any Raichu set, as it provides Raichu with its only immunity, as well as simultaneously boosting its offensive prowess. As Raichu will often be attaining Special Attack boosts, Timid is the nature of choice, allowing Raichu to outspeed several key threats, including Haunter and Jynx. The EV spread provided is straightforward: maximum Special Attack and Speed investment best engender Raichu's ability to sweep. In that vein, a Life Orb is always the best item to accompany the set, granting a crucial boost in power that ensures OHKOs on many Pokemon that would otherwise survive an attack. That said, Leftovers is an acceptable alternative, extending Raichu's lifespan while it attempts to sweep, as well as reducing its vulnerability to priority attackers.</p>

<p>Although Raichu is powerful after a Nasty Plot, it still requires some team support to facilitate a sweep. Eelektross is an excellent teammate as it can cripple opposing sweepers and walls with Thunder Wave and Toxic&emdash;not to mention its immunity to Ground-type moves, Raichu's only weakness. Raichu also appreciates entry hazard and dual screen support, Cryogonal being the best at fulfilling the latter role. Stealth Rock is particularly important, as it ensures OHKOs on Cryogonal and Amoonguss with Focus Blast and Hidden Power Ice respectively, Focus Blast being another alternative option to Grass Knot as a coverage move. Toxic Spikes are also appreciated in order to wear down defensive threats, such as Regirock and Quagsire; Garbodor fits this role well. Wish and Rain Dance support are also possibilities that Raichu will benefit from. The former ensures that if Raichu survives an attack it will be set up at full health, also creating room for a coverage option, while the latter grants Raichu a perfectly accurate Thunder with which it can decimate opponents. Alomomola is notable for its ability to fulfill both of the above roles, while also benefitting the rest of the team.</p>

[SET]
name: Choice
move 1: Thunderbolt
move 2: Hidden Power Ice
move 3: Focus Blast
move 4: Volt Switch
item: Choice Scarf / Choice Specs
ability: Lightningrod
nature: Modest / Timid
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>Occasionally, Raichu yearns for the days of the original generation where it could power past the opposition, and this side provides it with a way to do just that! With either a Choice Scarf or a Choice Specs equipped, Raichu gains the ability to either outspeed almost any Pokemon in NU or to zap opponents with brute force, respectively. Thunderbolt and Volt Switch are both excellent STAB options; Thunderbolt being the more powerful of the two and allowing Raichu to sweep through weakened teams, whereas Volt Switch grants Raichu excellent scouting capabilities, maintaining momentum in the process. The crux of the set, however, is Raichu's Lightningrod ability, which pushes Raichu ahead of Electabuzz, whom Raichu would otherwise be inferior to. Lightningrod allows Raichu to counter opposing Volt Switches, absorb opposing paralysis attempts, and check general Electric-type attackers, gaining a Special Attack boost in the process. In order to take advantage of such a boost, Focus Blast and Hidden Power Ice are the coverage moves of choice, being strong neutral options and covering Rock-types, and Dragon- and Grass-types super effectively respectively.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>The EV spread is standard for a Choice attacker, Special Attack and Speed once again being maximized to provide optimum power output. The choice between Modest and Timid will often be based on the item of choice, Modest working well with Choice Scarf and Timid being the best nature with Choice Specs, although any combination will provide satisfactory results.</p>

<p>Swellow makes an excellent partner for this Raichu variant, as it is not only immune to Raichu's only weakness, but also draws in Electric-type attacks for Raichu to switch in on. Furthermore, they create a U-turn / Volt Switch core that will maintain momentum, each of the pairing also threatening the walls that hamper the other Pokemon. As Raichu will be switching frequently due to its Volt Switch usage, Rapid Spin support is crucial as Raichu is vulnerable to all forms of passive damage. Cryogonal is thus a strong teammate, as it can provide a defensive pivot should Raichu need to switch out. Lastly, entry hazard support is always appreciated due to the switches Raichu can cause. Spikes from Cacturne are particularly usefull in order to weaken the Ground-type Pokemon that are immune to Raichu's STAB, Cacturne itself being able to defeat those Pokemon.</p>

[Other Options]

<p>Although primarily a special attacker, Raichu is capable of using a SubPunch set, which when used alongside other physical moves, such as Volt Tackle or Iron Tail, can quickly catch opponents off guard. A mixed SubPunch set is also viable, however for any set utilising Focus Punch it must be noted that the move is illegal alongside Lightningrod, forcing Raichu to use the less useful Static as its ability. Raichu's other offensive options, moves such as Signal Beam, Discharge, and Fake Out, all have their own situational uses but are rarely worth using over one of the main moveslots.</p>

<p>Its support movepool, however, is where Raichu carries most of its alternative moves, albeit ones that are most often illegal alongside Lightningrod. Light Screen can be used to provide Raichu and its teammates with a temporary buffer from special attacks, with Rain Dance similarly boosting teammates Water-type moves. Substitute and Agility are options that scout for status moves and boost Raichu's speed respectively, although Raichu will rarely be strong enough to make use of them. Raichu can also provide HP support in the form of Wish, which while not particularly large in Raichu's case is never unwelcome. Tickle and Knock Off are niche options that will frustrate the opponent, the former weakening both their Attack and Defense stats whereas the latter strips them of their held item.</p>

[Checks and Counters]

<p>Quagsire is one of the best counters to any Raichu set lacking Grass Knot, taking little for either of Raichu's coverage moves while also nullifying Raichu's Nasty plot boosts thanks to Quagsire's ability, Unaware. Regirock handles Raichu quite effectively, its natural bulk allowing it to tank even Focus Blasts without undue hardship; it can then retaliate with a STAB Stone Edge. Similarly, Probopass can take any attack bar Focus Blast from Raichu and can proceed to set up Stealth Rock before whittling Raichu down. Specially defensive Grass-type Pokemon such as Vileplume also handle Raichu well, often being able to outstall its attacks while avoiding the 2HKO from Hidden Power Ice.</p>

<p>Other, more niche Pokemon, such as Lightningrod Seaking, Motor Drive Zebstrika, and Volt Absorb Chinchou can all handle Raichu's attacking combo without difficulty, although these Pokemon should rarely be considered. Of far more concern are any strong physical attacker that can outspeed Raichu, including Pokemon such as Tauros and Swellow, as well as powerful Choice Scarf users that will be able to outspeed and OHKO Raichu with ease. Similarly, strong priority users, such as <examples>, can prey on Raichu's weak Defense stat and KO it with priority moves, namely Mach Punch and Sucker Punch.</p>




GP APPROVED 1/2
 
I think you should add Magnet Rise in OO, as it changes Raichu's one weakness into an immunity, but mention that it's illegal with Lightningrod.
 

Ray Jay

"Jump first, ask questions later, oui oui!"
is a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Community Leader Alumnusis a Community Contributor Alumnusis a Tiering Contributor Alumnusis a Top Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Media Contributor Alumnus
Additions in Bold
Deletions in Red

[Overview]

<p>Raichu has never been the strongest of attackers, and has consistently been relegated to the lowest tiers with each passing generation. Raichu gains a new toy in BW in the ability, Lightningrod, generating a Special Attack boost when Raichu is hit by an Electric-type move. Additionally, Raichu's great Speed and high Special Attack stats are complemented by a diverse movepool, turning it into a decent sweeper. Unfortunately, Raichu is held back by its poor 60 / 55 / 80 defensive stats, which make it difficult to switch in. It is also hampered by its , as well as its lack of overwhelming power, which means it has trouble breaking walls. Despite its flaws, Raichu is capable of severely denting the opposition with its few unique niches.</p>

[SET]
name: Nasty Plot
move 1: Nasty Plot
move 2: Thunderbolt
move 3: Hidden Power Ice
move 4: Encore / Grass Knot
item: Life Orb
ability: Lightningrod
nature: Timid
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>With its high Speed and Special Attack, Raichu can make use of its access to Nasty Plot quite well, easily facilitating a sweep. After a Nasty Plot, Raichu reaches 558 Special Attack, which lets it quickly break through an opponents. Although Raichu's defensive stats make it difficult to boost comfortably, Encore can lock an opponent into a non-damaging move and give Raichu the free turn it needs to set up. Furthermore, Raichu gains free switch-ins on many other Electric-type Pokemon, such as Electabuzz and Rotom-S, whose with their STAB options activate activating Raichu's Lightningrod ability andgrant granting it a free Special Attack boost.</p>

<p>Thunderbolt is Raichu's go-to move, being a naturally powerful move as well as an excellent STAB option. Hidden Power Ice provides the best coverage alongside Thunderbolt, as it grants Raichu the famed BoltBeam coverage, and hits key Pokemon that resist Thunderbolt, including Tangela, Torterra, and Dragonair. If necessary, one can forgo Encore in favour of Grass Knot in order to gain coverage on threats that can still handle the Electric / Ice combination, most notably Regirock, who is one of the heavier Pokemon in the game.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>Lightningrod is the de facto ability on any Raichu set, as it provides Raichu with its only immunity, as well as simultaneously boosting its offensive prowess. As Raichu will often be attaining Special Attack boosts, Timid is the nature of choice, allowing Raichu to outspeed several key threats, including Haunter and Jynx. The EV spread provided is straightforward: maximum Special Attack and Speed investment best engender Raichu's ability to sweep. In that vein, a Life Orb is always the best item to accompany the set, granting a crucial boost in power that ensures OHKOs on many Pokemon that would otherwise survive an attack. That said, Leftovers is an acceptable alternative, extending Raichu's lifespan while it attempts to sweep, as well as reducing its vulnerability to priority attackers.</p>

<p>Although Raichu is powerful after a Nasty Plot, it still requires some team support to facilitate a sweep. Eelektross is an excellent teammate as it can cripple opposing sweepers and walls with Thunder Wave and Toxic&emdash;it's also immune not to mention its immunity to Ground-type moves, Raichu's only weakness. Raichu also appreciates entry hazard and dual screen support, Cryogonal being the best at fulfilling the latter role. One can opt to use Focus Blast over Grass Knot for greater coverage, most notably on opposing Crygonal, who will fall to Life Orb-boosted Focus Blast when Stealth Rock is up. Stealth Rock is also notable in allowing Raichu to take out Amoonguss with Hidden Power Ice. Stealth Rock is particularly important, as it ensures OHKOs on Cryogonal and Amoonguss with Focus Blast and Hidden Power Ice respectively, Focus Blast being another alternative option to Grass Knot as a coverage move. (sorry, just didn't felt this made sense in its current incarnation; mentioning Focus Blast at the end confused me) Toxic Spikes are also appreciated in order to wear down defensive threats, such as Regirock and Quagsire; Garbodor fits this role well. Wish and Rain Dance support are also possibilities that Raichu will benefit from. The former ensures that if Raichu survives an attack it will be set up at full health, also creating room for a coverage option, while the latter grants Raichu a perfectly accurate Thunder with which it can decimate opponents. Alomomola is notable for its ability to fulfill both of the above roles, while also benefitting the rest of the team.</p>

[SET]
name: Choice
move 1: Thunderbolt
move 2: Hidden Power Ice
move 3: Focus Blast
move 4: Volt Switch
item: Choice Scarf / Choice Specs
ability: Lightningrod
nature: Modest / Timid
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>Occasionally, Raichu yearns for the days of the original generation where it could power past the opposition, and this set side provides it with a way to do just that! With either a Choice Scarf or a Choice Specs equipped, Raichu gains the ability to either outspeed almost any Pokemon in NU or to zap opponents with brute force, respectively. Thunderbolt and Volt Switch are both excellent STAB options; Thunderbolt being the more powerful of the two and allowing Raichu to sweep through weakened teams, whereas Volt Switch grants Raichu excellent scouting capabilities, maintaining momentum in the process. The crux of the set, however, is Raichu's Lightningrod ability, which pushes Raichu ahead of Electabuzz, whom Raichu would otherwise be inferior to. Lightningrod allows Raichu to counter opposing Volt Switches, absorb opposing paralysis attempts, and check general Electric-type attackers, gaining a Special Attack boost in the process. In order to take advantage of such a boost, Focus Blast and Hidden Power Ice are the coverage moves of choice, being strong neutral options and covering Rock-types, and Dragon- and Grass-types super effectively respectively.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>The EV spread is standard for a Choice attacker, Special Attack and Speed once again being maximized to provide optimum power output. The choice between Modest and Timid will often be based on the item of choice, Modest working well with Choice Scarf and Timid being the best nature with Choice Specs, although any combination will provide satisfactory results.</p>

<p>Swellow makes an excellent partner for this Raichu variant, as it is not only immune to Raichu's only weakness, but also draws in Electric-type attacks for Raichu to switch in on. Furthermore, they create a U-turn / Volt Switch core that will maintain momentum&emdash;,[backspace]each member of the pair pairing also threatens threatening the walls that hamper the other Pokemon. As Raichu will be switching frequently due to its Volt Switch usage, Rapid Spin support is crucial, (comma) as Raichu is vulnerable to all forms of passive damage. Cryogonal is thus a strong teammate, as it can provide a defensive pivot should Raichu need to switch out. Lastly, entry hazard support is always appreciated due to the switches Raichu can cause. Spikes from Cacturne are particularly useful usefull in order to weaken the Ground-type Pokemon that are immune to Raichu's STAB, Cacturne itself being able to defeat those Pokemon.</p>

[Other Options]

<p>Although primarily a special attacker, Raichu is capable of using a SubPunch set, which when used alongside other physical moves, such as Volt Tackle or Iron Tail, and can quickly catch opponents off guard. A mixed SubPunch set is also viable, however for any set utilising Focus Punch it must be noted that the move is illegal alongside Lightningrod, forcing Raichu to use the less useful Static as its ability. Raichu's other offensive options, moves such as Signal Beam, Discharge, and Fake Out, all have their own situational uses but are rarely worth using over one of the main moveslots.</p>

<p>Its support movepool, however, is where Raichu carries most of its alternative moves, albeit ones that are most often illegal alongside Lightningrod. Light Screen can be used to provide Raichu and its teammates with a temporary buffer from special attacks, with Rain Dance similarly boosting teammates Water-type moves. Substitute and Agility are options that scout for status moves and boost Raichu's speed respectively, although Raichu will rarely be strong enough to make use of them. Raichu can also provide HP support in the form of Wish, which, (comma) while not particularly large, (comma) in Raichu's case is never unwelcome. Tickle and Knock Off are niche options that will frustrate the opponent, the former weakening both their Attack and Defense stats whereas the latter strips them of their held item. Finally, Magnet Rise is useful against Pokemon locked into Ground-type moves, turning Raichu's only weakness into an immunity.</p>

[Checks and Counters]

<p>Quagsire is one of the best counters to any Raichu set lacking Grass Knot, taking little from for either of Raichu's coverage moves while also nullifying Raichu's Nasty plot boosts thanks to Quagsire's ability, Unaware. Regirock handles Raichu quite effectively, its natural bulk allowing it to tank even Focus Blasts without undue hardship; it can then retaliate with a STAB Stone Edge. Similarly, Probopass can take any attack bar Focus Blast from Raichu and can proceed to set up Stealth Rock before whittling Raichu down. Specially defensive Grass-type Pokemon such as Vileplume also handle Raichu well, often being able to outstall its attacks while avoiding the 2HKO from Hidden Power Ice.</p>

<p>Other, more niche Pokemon, such as Lightningrod Seaking, Motor Drive Zebstrika, and Volt Absorb Chinchou can all handle Raichu's attacking combo without difficulty, although these Pokemon should rarely be considered. Of far more concern are any strong physical attacker that can outspeed Raichu, including Pokemon such as Tauros and Swellow, as well as powerful Choice Scarf users that will be able to outspeed and OHKO Raichu with ease. Similarly, strong priority users, such as Absol, Gurdurr, and Swellow, can prey on Raichu's weak Defense stat and KO it with priority moves, such as namely Mach Punch and Sucker Punch.</p>


 

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