Gardevoir (OU Analysis)

~Gardevoir~

Team Options are in Violet

[Overview]
<p>Support-oriented Psychic-types (excluding Bronzong and Jirachi) must always be cautious of performing their task in the OU metagame due to powerful Pursuit users such as Scizor and Tyranitar trapping and killing them without much effort; Gardevoir, however, sets itself apart from other Psychic-types with its unique movepool. Gardevoir also has the rare ability Trace, which gives it plenty of chances to switch in and support its team. At first glance, Gardevoir’s low Defense stat is a bit off-putting, but with access to Reflect and Will-O-Wisp, it can be bypassed to an extent. On the contrary to its pitiful Defense, Gardevoir’s base 115 Special Defense stat allows it to sponge hits from bulkier Special Attackers such as Suicune and Blissey, very well.</p>

<p>While Gardevoir can support its team in a wide variety of ways, it has trouble switching in on attacks hitting it for even neutral damage and entry hazards since it lacks immediate recovery outside of Rest. Relying on Gardevoir as a check for multiple Pokemon is strongly discouraged. You should ensure that your team isn’t forced out by common Pokemon such as Heatran and Blissey too often.</p>

[SET]
name: OU Dual Screen
move 1: Light Screen
move 2: Reflect
move 3: Focus Blast / Taunt / Psychic
move 4: Memento / Healing Wish
item: Light Clay
ability: Trace
nature: Timid
evs: 252 HP / 16 SpD / 240 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>Much like its Psychic type siblings, Gardevoir can use both Reflect and Light Screen in order to support its team. Unlike other dual screeners however, Gardevoir has an extremely useful movepool and ability as well as a decent stat spread to support its team from.</p>

<p>Trace is a wonderful ability, providing Gardevoir numerous opportunities to switch in and set up both screens since many Pokemon in the OU metagame can have their abilities used against them. Tracing Water Absorb, Flash Fire, Volt Absorb, Motor Drive, and Levitate provides Gardevoir with an immunity upon switching in, giving it an easier time setting up both Reflect and Light Screen. Gardevoir can also trap Pokemon with the ability Magnet Pull and support its team to its heart’s content.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>The third move depends solely on which Pokemon you’re aiming to support. Taunt is recommended if you fear another Pokemon switching in and taking advantage of any possible free turns that Gardevoir can give it. If Gardevoir can Trace Magnet Pull, it can trap Magnezone, making Focus Blast a worthy option; moreover, Focus Blast deters Tyranitar from switching in. Psychic can be used for Pokemon who cannot take hits from the likes of Infernape and Machamp well; Adamant Dragon Dance Tyranitar, for example, would appreciate both Infernape and Machamp out of the way. Since the EVs allow Gardevoir to outspeed Adamant Gyarados, running Thunderbolt allows Gardevoir to OHKO Gyarados before it would get the chance to use Dragon Dance or Taunt. The final moveslot, once again, is dependent on which Pokemon you’re attempting to bring in. Memento gives your sweeper a free switch-in, setting up whatever it needs and rampaging through your opponent’s team. Healing Wish on the other hand, should only be used later in the game, as it doesn’t necessarily give your sweeper multiple turns to set up. Wish is another option for this set if you don’t want to sacrifice Gardevoir, but without Leftovers recovery and Protect, Gardevoir will be losing more HP that it gains from Wish most of the time.</p>

<p>The current spread places Gardevoir at 281 Speed, allowing it to outpace Adamant Lucario and most of the Pokemon that aim to get the jump on it as well. Dropping the EV investment in speed to give Gardevoir more bulk is a viable idea as well – decreasing Gardevoir’s speed may not give Gardevoir the advantage you’re looking for however, since it lacks a direct form of recovery.</p>

<p>Akin to Uxie, Bronzong, and Azelf, Gardevoir has a reliable method of getting its dual screens recipient in safely, carrying a Pokemon that sports excellent synergy with Gardevoir is highly recommended. Swords Dance Lucario is arguably Gardevoir’s best partner, as it can really shine in the presence of both Reflect and Light Screen and it resists all of Gardevoir’s weaknesses; Lucario would also appreciate both Heatran and Magnezone out of play if you decide to opt for Focus Blast in the third slot. Dragon Dance Tyranitar may bring the unwanted sandstorm onto the field, but with dual screens support, it can tear through teams with ease. Offensive Calm Mind Suicune is great under Reflect and Light Screen – combining its natural bulk with the defense buffer from both screens – but be sure to rid the field of Blissey before doing so. Baton Pass Gliscor is another Pokemon to choose from, since the damage reduction allows it to set up and Baton Pass freely.</p>

[SET]
name: OU Wish Support
move 1: Wish
move 2: Will-O-Wisp
move 3: Taunt
move 4: Protect / Psychic
item: Leftovers
ability: Trace
nature: Calm
evs: 252 HP / 64 SpD / 192 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>This set aims to set Gardevoir apart from other Psychic-types by utilizing its versatile movepool and extremely useful ability, Trace. Wish is a very helpful support option for teamates that don't have a form of reliable recovery and is Gardevoir’s most reliable form of recovery, making it an invaluable choice for this set. With the overabundance of Pursuit users and strong Physical attackers in OU, Gardevoir’s Defense stat will be targeted more often. Will-O-Wisp can provide Gardevoir with a permanent solution to its low Defense stat and can cripple a potential threat to its team. Taunt is recommended in the third slot as it prevents Blissey and Vaporeon from crippling Gardevoir with Toxic while keeping SubSeed variants of Breloom at bay; Taunt also prevents Gardevoir from being setup fodder for Calm Mind users.</p>

<p>Trace provides plenty of switch-in opportunities in the OU metagame, since many Pokemon can have their abilities used against themselves. Jolteon, Heatran, Vaporeon, and Electivire can provide free switch on their STAB attacks, and will have to switch out if they are choiced. By Tracing Natural Cure, Gardevoir fears very little from Celebi or Blissey. If Choice Scarf Magnezone is locked into an attacking move, Gardevoir can come in and trap it with a Traced Magnet Pull, forcing the opponent to helplessly stay in as you go about giving your team all the support it needs. Choice Band and Choice Scarf Flygon will also be forced to switch out if Gardevoir switches in on Earthquake, but watch out for U-turn or its STAB Outrage.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>Gardevoir can fit a surprisingly effective niche on many offensive teams with Encore in hand, as it gives a significant amount of Pokemon an easier time setting up. Moreover, Gardevoir also sports fantastic type synergy with powerful sweepers such as Lucario, Tyranitar, Salamence, Infernape, and Heatran. Unfortunately, Will-O-Wisp and Encore cannot be used together on the same set, but don’t let that deter you from using Encore, as Reflect is an equally viable option over Will-O-Wisp. Reflect might not be able provide Gardevoir’s team with an ever-lasting solution to Physical attackers, but it has quite a few advantages over Will-O-Wisp. Unlike Will-O-Wisp, Reflect isn’t affected by accuracy, meaning that Gardevoir no longer has to worry about the 25% chance of not cutting the opposing Pokemon’s Attack by half. Secondly, Reflect only needs one use every few turns, allowing Gardevoir to use Wish, Encore, or switch if needed. Finally, Reflect can prevent Pokemon that are immune to burns – Toxic Orb Breloom, Infernape, and ResTalk Gyarados to name a few – from doing any significant damage.</p>

<p>The final slot is complicated because each choice changes how Gardevoir can be played. With Protect, Gardevoir has a more reliable method of recovery as well as the ability to scout for Choice-locked attackers and Explosion. Protect really shows itself to be a very good option when Gardevoir is faced with the impasse that all Psychic-types fear: Pursuit. Because Pursuit is usually shot off from slower, Choiced attackers, Gardevoir can stay in use Will-O-Wisp (or Reflect) without much fear; however, Gardevoir can take a hefty chunk of damage from any other attack that hits it for super-effective or even neutral damage. Protect can significantly increase Gardevoir’s survivability, making it a great option on this set. While Taunt can aid Gardevoir's survival against stat boosters and most forms of stall, Heal Bell is an equally viable option to choose from. Heal Bell gives Gardevoir a better niche on stall-oriented teams, as Pokemon such as Hippowdon and Vaporeon cannot utilize Rest and Sleep Talk in order to heal themselves from status ailments. Gardevoir also falls into the group of Pokemon that can’t use Rest and Sleep Talk effectively, making Heal Bell a worthy option if switch Gardevoir in on Toxic Spikes, or a move that inflicts status.</p>

<p>Psychic is Gardevoir's strongest STAB option and can 2HKO and OHKO numerous Pokemon in OU. 252 HP / 0 SpD Jolly Gliscor for example, is 2HKOed by Psychic when factoring in Stealth Rock damage; Infernape, Gengar and Breloom are OHKOed while Machamp, Heracross and Choice Scarf Rotom-A are 2HKOed. Psychic can also lure Tyranitar, Metagross and Scizor into a Will-O-Wisp. Despite its shaky accuracy and low PP, Focus Blast is another offensive option to choose from; with Focus Blast, Gardevoir now has an option against Tyranitar, Scizor, Magnezone and Heatran. If bulkier variants of Gyarados, Suicune, and Vaporeon cause your team problems, then Thunderbolt is another option. Light Screen and Toxic are lesser, but, useful options that allow Gardevoir to take on Rotom-A without much trouble. It’s recommended that those two moves, as well as any other unmentioned choice for this set, are placed in the final two slots; without Wish, Gardevoir can’t heal and without Will-O-Wisp, Gardevoir is more prone to the onslaughts of Hippowdon and Swampert as well as Pursuit from Scizor and Tyranitar.</p>

<p>With the current spread, Gardevoir outpaces Jolly Tyranitar so it can use Will-O-Wisp before it gets the chance to use Dragon Dance or Crunch. If max Speed Tyranitar is of little concern to you, then an alternate spread, 252 HP / 120 SpD / 132 Spe, can be used. This spread drops Speed for a bit more bulk, while still outplacing most variants of Scizor and Choice Band Tyranitar. 252 HP / 48 SpA / 176 SpD / 32 Spe with a Modest nature is an option if you choose to take Gardevoir on the offensive with Thunderbolt or Psychic; this spread gives Gardevoir the ability to beat Suicune, Vaporeon, Heracross, and even Machamp most of the time when given Stealth Rock support.</p>

<p>Gardevoir’s main problem lies in its low Speed stat, as it gives faster Pokemon the ability to set up on Gardevoir. Taunt may be able to prevent faster Pokemon from using their stat boosting moves, but keep in mind that after Taunt wears off, they’ll be able to heal or stack on another boost before Gardevoir uses Taunt again. Dragon Dancers and faster Calm Minders are what Gardevoir needs to worry about; Choice Scarf Flygon can take out most Dragon Dancers and Calm Mind. If offensive Calm Mind Suicune becomes a pain, then Choice Specs Jolteon can be used to quickly dispatch of it.</p>

<p> Gardevoir has the ability to stall out even Blissey with the use of Taunt and Wish when given support from two layers of Toxic Spikes. Forretress can set up and Spin away Toxic Spikes and any other entry hazard. Tentacruel can lay down Toxic Spikes as well, and it comes with the luxury of absorbing Toxic Spikes upon entry. Rest + Sleep Talk Drapion can use Toxic Spikes, absorb Toxic Spikes upon entry, check Rotom-A and Gengar making it too an effective partner for Gardevoir. Even though it doesn't sound like the best idea to use Toxic Spikes along with Will-O-Wisp, Gardevoir will be crippling Steel and Flying types, who are immune to Toxic Spikes, more than anything.</p>

<p>It should be noted that all of the mentioned partners will appreciate Wish and / or burn support from Gardevoir.</p>

[Team Options]

<p>Despite the fact that Trace gives Gardevoir multiple chances to switch in safely, Gardevoir has to worry about switching in and out continuously, as it’s not built to take multiple (though, relatively weak) hits from Suicune, Jirachi and the like; entry hazards also hamper Gardevoir’s survivability. As mentioned before, it’s strongly recommended that you bring second Pokemon to take hits for Gardevoir. It’s also suggested that you bring a Rapid Spinner into the fray as well.</p>

<p>The support set can shut down a decent amount of Pokemon with Taunt and Encore, making entry hazards very effective when using it. Gardevoir can also work effectively on stall teams, making Hippowdon a very viable choice for a partner, since it can set up Stealth Rock with relative ease and get a sandstorm going from the start. Forretress is a very good partner for Gardevoir, seeing as it can set up Stealth Rock, Spikes, and Toxic Spikes as well as use Rapid Spin to heighten the chances of Gardevoir switching in safely; Gardevoir and Forretress sport excellent type synergy with one another and with Trace, Gardevoir can prevent Heatran and Jolteon from overpowering Forretress on occasion. Swampert can lay down Stealth Rock and it comes with the added bonus of being able to take on Tyranitar, Scizor, and Calm Mind Jirachi, some of Gardevoir’s largest threats. Skarmory can get Spikes onto the field with little to no trouble and would greatly appreciate Magnezone being taken out of the game by Gardevoir. While it doesn’t make much sense having two Special sponges on the same team, Blissey makes an excellent partner for Gardevoir with its cleric set. Gardevoir can keep Blissey alive with Wish and Will-O-Wisp while Blissey can prevent Gardevoir being incapacitated by status. Heatran’s Torment set works very well alongside Gardevoir; both Pokemon can take on each other’s threats with relative ease while maintaining great type synergy. You should also ensure that Scizor, Jirachi, Gliscor, and Rotom-A are taken care of before switching Gardevoir in. A mixed Tyranitar can lure all of the mentioned Pokemon out of hiding and KO them with ease. Choice Band Scizor and Choice Specs Latias can perform the same task, but can be used for set up fodder very easily if you’re not careful.</p>

<p>Since the dual screens set’s purpose is to “support and faint”, there aren’t many recommended Pokemon for partners to this set; however, Stealth Rock is a must to give your dual screens recipient(s) as much damage output as possible. Gliscor is a great Pokemon to set up Stealth Rock, and can get Gardevoir in safely with U-turn. Metagross and Heatran can set up Stealth Rock as well while potentially taking out a threat to Gardevoir with Explosion.</p>

[Optional Changes]

<p>Gardevoir’s movepool is vast, giving it several options to choose from if the recommended moves don’t fit your preferences. Thunder Wave can be placed on any set in the place of an offensive option or Taunt, and can work very well given that most of Gardevoir's checks despise paralysis. Grass Knot and Energy Ball rid the field of Vaporeon and Swampert, but you won’t find much use for them otherwise. Shadow Ball can nail Latias and Rotom-A for super effective damage. Signal Beam can 2HKO Celebi, but there’s very little use for it outside of that. While Icy Wind may not appear to be viable due its low base power, the Speed drop makes it a worthwhile option. Salamence, Gliscor and Breloom are 2HKOed by Icy Wind and the Speed drop prevents them from doing much. Icy Wind works best alongside Taunt, as it prevents most Pokemon from using Gardevoir as set up fodder. Charge Beam can turn Gardevoir into an offensive threat, but don’t expect it to go very far.</p>

<p>Gardevoir use Calm Mind with Focus Blast or Will-O-Wisp, but it requires a significant amount of support in order to do any noticeable damage. Gardevoir can put its low Speed to use with Trick Room, but you’ll quickly find out that Bronzong, Uxie, and other Psychic-types will be able utilize Trick Room better. Choice Specs places Gardevoir’s Special Attack at 574, allowing it to its switch-ins very hard with a plethora of attacks. A Choice Scarf set is usable, but is entirely outclassed by Latias with the exception of Focus Blast. Gardevoir can use the infamous parafusion tactic with Confuse Ray. Destiny Bond may seem tempting, but Gardevoir’s low Speed stat prevents it from making use of it.</p>

[Counters]

<p>Despite Will-O-Wisp halving damage done to Gardevoir on the physical side of the spectrum, strong physical attackers such as Scizor and Machamp can still cause a hefty amount of damage with U-turn and Payback respectively. Heracross can switch in safely on every attack in Gardevoir’s arsenal sans Psychic and proceed to OHKO with its STAB Megahorn and with Guts, Heracross actually prefers switching in on Will-O-Wisp. As mentioned before, faster Calm Minders, Jirachi, Suicune and Latias can outpace Gardevoir before it can use Taunt and proceed to wear it down with their strong STAB attacks.</p>

<p>Trace gives Gardevoir multiple chances to switch in on the likes of Heatran and Jolteon, but Trace doesn’t prevent those same Pokemon from switching in on Gardevoir and pounding on it with their strong STAB attacks. Due to this, Heatran and Electivire can switch in on Gardevoir most of the time and wear it down with their respective Fire and Electric STAB. Gardevoir’s main weaknesses lie in its low Speed and Defense stats; abuse those weaknesses when attempting to counter it.</p>

lol i have no idea what sans means sorry.
[Overview]

<p>Support-oriented Psychic types (sans Bronzong and JirachiAzelf, Starmie, Latias(why? bronzong and rachi arent pursuit weak.) are generally frowned upon in the OU metagame due to powerful Pursuit users such as Scizor, Heracross and Tyranitar trapping and killing them without much effort; Gardevoir, however, sets itself apart from other Psychic types with its unique movepool and spectacular ability, Trace.(hmm im not sure what you mean here. Trace doesnt effect pursuit's ability to ruin gardevoir. not to mention she is weak to pursuit without w-o-w support. At first glance, Gardevoir’s low Defense stat is a bit off-putting, but with access to Reflect and Will-o-Wisp, it can be bypassed to an extent. On the contrary to its pitiful Defense, Gardevoir’s base 115 Special Defense stat allows it to sponge hits from bulkier Special Attackers, Suicune and Blissey for example, very well. With continuous damage from Toxic or Toxic Spikes, Gardevoir can even out-stall the aforementioned Pokemon without much effort.</p>

<p>While Gardevoir can support its team in a wide variety of ways, it has trouble switching in on attacks hitting it for neutral damage and entry hazards continuously since it lacks immediate recovery outside of Rest. Relying on Gardevoir as a check for multiple Pokemon is strongly discouraged. Rather much, you should ensure that your team isn’t forced out by commonly used Pokemon such as Heatran and Blissey too often.</p>

[SET]
name: OU Wish Support
move 1: Wish
move 2: Will-o-Wisp
move 3: Taunt / Heal Bell
move 4: Protect / Icy Wind / Thunderbolt
item: Leftovers
ability: Trace
nature: Calm
evs: 252 HP / 64 SpD / 192 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>This set aims to set Gardevoir apart from other Psychic types, namely Latias, by utilizing its versatile movepool and extremely useful ability, Trace. Wish tremendously helps Pokemon who require a reliable method of healing and is Gardevoir’s most reliable form of recovery, making it an invaluable choice for this set. With the overabundance of Pursuit users and strong Physical attackers in OU, Gardevoir’s Defense stat will be targeted more than often. Will-o-Wisp provides Gardevoir with a permanent solution to its low Defense stat and a potential threat to its team. Taunt is recommended in the third slot as it prevents Blissey and Vaporeon from crippling Gardevoir with Toxic (though in the former’s case, Gardevoir can Trace Natural Cure and switch out in order to remove its poison status) (consider omitting, its not necessary in my opinion.) while keeping SubSeed variants of Breloom at bay; Trace also prevents Gardevoir from being setup fodder for Calm Mind users. Heal Bell is an option if your team is extremely vulnerable to status or, if it lacks a Spinner or grounded Poison type to rid the field of Toxic Spikes.</p>

<p>Trace provides plenty of opportunities to switch into in the OU metagame, since many Pokemon can have their abilities used against themselves. Jolteon, Heatran, Vaporeon, and Electivire will not be able to hit Gardevoir with their primary STAB attacks, meaning they will more than likely switch. By Tracing Natural Cure, Gardevoir fears very little from staying in on Celebi or Blissey. If Choice Scarf Magnezone is locked into an attacking move, Gardevoir can come in and trap it with a Traced Magnet Pull, forcing the opponent to helplessly stay in as you go about giving your team all the support it needs. Choice Flygon too will be forced to switch out if Gardevoir switches in on Earthquake, but watch out for U-turn or its STAB Outrage.</p>

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i didn't look at the whole thing, but good job so far. convincing :)!

Thanks. I added the changes in and reworded the first sentence of the overview

Also, expect Dual Screens to be up sometime tomorrow.

So why isn't Psychic in set comments at least ?

Yeah "it has bad coverage" but stripping it of its main STAB isnt too smart imo. There are still things Psychic hits, things like Infernape, said Breloom and even Machamp whom Gardevoir makes an "ok" last minute check to. That and neutral targets such as the Rotoms and things you could be hitting on the switch in like Gengar.

Actually, I'll go ahead and edit Psychic in. It was the primary offensive option in the fourth slot when I started this analysis, but I scrapped it because I didn't put any thought into it; It missed the 2HKO on standard Rotom-A, but I honestly never considered what else Gardevoir could hit with Psychic >__________>

For the first set I found thunderbolt to be a good option for slot 3. It lets you counter a lot of things that you can't with just trace and psychic. Most notable ones are heatran, gyrados, and vaporeon.

Dual Screen is up

Quaily said:

For the first set I found thunderbolt to be a good option for slot 3. It lets you counter a lot of things that you can't with just trace and psychic. Most notable ones are heatran, gyrados, and vaporeon.

Click to expand...

Without Taunt, Vaporeon can just stall Gardevoir with Wish and Protect unless there's a significant amount of investment into Special Attack. It's not the best or smartest idea to use Gardevoir as a counter to Gyarados since a Life Orb Waterfall is 2HKOing at -1. Heatran I can agree on, but it's not enough to sacrifice protection from status moves imo. Taunt also prevents shit like Celebi from screwing over another Pokemon with Perish Song/Thunder Wave.

You may want to mention a tanking set with Wish/(Protect/Will-O-Wisp)/Psychic/Focus Blast. Thanks to Gardevoir's ability, Trace, and coupled with her high Special Defense stat, she can switch in on Magnezone with relative impunity, trap it, and 0HKO or 2HKO with Focus Blast. This is much more reliable than using Dugtrio, since Gardevoir is much more bulky. Without Magnezone, your team may have a better chance to set up aScizor or MixRachi sweep.

I'll still proofread this for you even though you're not done. ^_^

Oxymentus said:

[Overview]

<p>Support-oriented Psychic-types (excluding Bronzong and Jirachi) must always be cautious of preforming their task in the OU metagame due to powerful Pursuit users, such as Scizor, Heracross and Tyranitar, trapping and killing them without much effort; Gardevoir, however, sets itself apart from other Psychic-types with its unique movepool. Gardevoir also has the rare ability, Trace, which gives it plenty of chances to switch in and support its team. At first glance, Gardevoir’s low Defense stat is a bit off-putting, but with access to Reflect and Will-O-Wisp, it can be bypassed to an extent. On the contrary to its pitiful Defense, Gardevoir’s base 115 Special Defense stat allows it to sponge hits from bulkier special attackers, Suicune and Blissey for example, very well. With continuous damage from Toxic or Toxic Spikes, Gardevoir can even outstall the aforementioned Pokemon without much effort.</p>

<p>While Gardevoir can support its team in a wide variety of ways, it has trouble switching in on attacks hitting it for neutral damage and entry hazards since it lacks immediate recovery outside of Rest [It has Wish]. Relying on Gardevoir as a check for multiple Pokemon is strongly discouraged. You should ensure that your team isn’t forced out by commonly used Pokemon like Heatran and Blissey too often.</p>

[SET]
name: OU Wish Support
move 1: Wish
move 2: Will-o-Wisp
move 3: Taunt / Heal Bell
move 4: Protect / Psychic / Icy Wind
item: Leftovers
ability: Trace
nature: Calm
evs: 252 HP / 64 SpD / 192 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>This set aims to set Gardevoir apart from other Psychic-types, namely Latias, by utilizing its versatile movepool and extremely useful ability, Trace. Wish tremendously helps Pokemon who require a reliable method of healing and is Gardevoir’s most reliable form of recovery, making it an invaluable choice for this set. With the overabundance of Pursuit users and strong physical attackers in OU, Gardevoir’s Defense stat will be targeted more than often. Will-O-Wisp provides Gardevoir with a permanent solution to its low Defense stat and a potential threat to the opponent's team. Taunt is recommended in the third slot as it prevents Blissey and Vaporeon from crippling Gardevoir with Toxic and healing health, while keeping SubSeed variants of Breloom at bay. Trace also prevents Gardevoir from being setup fodder for Calm Mind users [How come?]. Heal Bell is an option if your team is extremely vulnerable to status, and helps Gardevoir heal itself from Toxic Spikes' efect if you lack a Spinner or grounded Poison-type to rid of them.</p>

<p>Trace provides plenty of opportunities for Gardevoir to switch into in the OU metagame, since many Pokemon can have their abilities used against themselves. Jolteon, Heatran, Vaporeon, and Electivire will not be able to hit Gardevoir with their primary STAB attacks, meaning they will more than likely switch. By Tracing Natural Cure, Gardevoir fears very little from Celebi and Blissey. If Choice Scarf Magnezone is locked into an attacking move, Gardevoir can come in and trap it with a Traced Magnet Pull, forcing the opponent to helplessly stay in as you go about giving your team all the support it needs. Choice Flygon too will be forced to switch out if Gardevoir switches in on Earthquake, but watch out for U-turn or its STAB Outrage.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>The final slot is arguable because each choice changes how Gardevoir can be played. With Protect, Gardevoir has more reliable method of recovery as well as the ability to scout for Choiced attackers and Explosion users. Protect really shows itself to be a very nifty option when Gardevoir is faced with the impasse that all Psychic-types not named Bronzong and Jirachi fear: Pursuit. Because Pursuit is usually shot off from slower, Choiced attackers, Gardevoir can stay in and use Will-O-Wisp without much fear; however, Gardevoir can take a hefty chunk of damage from any other attack that hits it for super effective or even neutral damage. Protect can significantly aid Gardevoir’s survivability, making it a great option on this set. Psychic is Gardevoir's strongest STAB option and can 2HKO and OHKO numerous Pokemon in OU. 252/0 Jolly Gliscor for example, is 2HKOed by Psychic when factoring in Stealth Rock damage; Infernape, Gengar and Breloom are OHKOed while Machamp, Heracross and Choice Scarf Rotom-A are 2HKOed. Psychic can also lure Tyranitar and Scizor into a Will-O-Wisp. Icy Wind may not appear to be viable due its low Base Power, but the Speed drop it provides makes it a worthwhile option. Salamence, Gliscor and Breloom are 2HKOed by Icy Wind and the Speed drop prevents them from doing much back unless any of them would ever carry a Choice Scarf. Icy Wind works best alongside Taunt, as it prevents most Pokemon from using Gardevoir as set up fodder. If bulkier variants of Gyarados, Suicune and Vaporeon cause your team problems, then Thunderbolt is another option. Light Screen and Toxic are useful options, allowing Gardevoir to take on Latias and Rotom-A without much trouble. It’s recommended that those two moves, as well as any other unmentioned choice for this set, are placed in the final two slots; Without Wish, Gardevoir can’t heal and without Will-O-Wisp, Gardevoir is more prone to the onslaughts of Hippowdon and Swampert [Any reason why you said Hippowdon and Swampert?] as well as Pursuit from Scizor and Tyranitar.</p>

<p>With the current spread, Gardevoir outpaces Jolly Tyranitar so it can use Will-O-Wisp before it gets the chance to use Dragon Dance or Crunch. If max Speed Tyranitar is of little concern to you, then an alternate spread, 252 HP / 120 SpD / 132 Spe can be used. This spread drops Speed for a bit more bulk, while still outpacing most variants of Scizor, Choice Band Tyranitar, and minimum Speed Gliscor.</p>

<p>Gardevoir’s main problem lies in its low Speed stat, as it gives faster Pokemon the ability to set up on Gardevoir (albeit gradually). Taunt may be able to prevent faster Pokemon from using their stat boosting moves, but keep in mind that after Taunt wears off, they’ll be able to heal or stack on another boost before Gardevoir uses Taunt again. Dragon Dance users and faster Calm Minders are what Gardevoir needs to worry about; Choice Scarf Flygon can take out most Dragon Dancers and Calm Mind users without much trouble. If offensive Calm Mind Suicune becomes a pain, then Choice Specs Jolteon can be used.</p>

<p> Gardevoir has the ability to stall out even Blissey with the use of Taunt and Wish when given support from two layers of Toxic Spikes. Foretress can set up and Spin away Toxic Spikes and any other entry hazard. Tentacruel can lay down Toxic Spikes as well, and it also comes with the luxury of absorbing Toxic Spikes upon entry. RestTalk Drapion can use Toxic Spikes, absorb Toxic Spikes upon entry, and check Rotom-A, Gengar, and Latias, making it an effective partner for Gardevoir. Even though it doesn't sound like the best idea to use Toxic Spikes along with Will-O-Wisp, Gardevoir will be mostly crippling Steel-types, who are immune to Toxic Spikes.</p>

<p>It should be noted that all of the mentioned partners will appreciate Wish and/or burn support from Gardevoir.</p>

[SET]
name: OU Dual Screen
move 1: Light Screen
move 2: Reflect
move 3: Taunt / Psychic / Thunderbolt
move 4: Healing Wish / Memento
item: Light Clay
ability: Trace
nature: Timid
evs: 252 HP / 84 SpD / 172 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>Much like its Psychic-type siblings, Gardevoir can use both Reflect and Light Screen, but with Trace and access to moves that can greatly aid another Pokemon’s sweep, Gardevoir can once again separate itself from other Psychic-types. Light Screen and Reflect can turn even frail sweepers, such as Azelf and Lucario, into monstrous powerhouses. Unless you’re really confident about which Pokemon will be switching in on your sweeper, using both Reflect and Light Screen is the best option.</p>

<p>Trace is a wonderful ability, providing Gardevoir with numerous opportunities to switch in and set up both screens, since many Pokemon in the OU metagame can have their abilities turned against them. Tracing Water Absorb, Flash Fire, Volt Absorb, Motor Drive and Levitate provides Gardevoir with an immunity upon switching in, giving it an easier time to set up both Reflect and Light Screen. Gardevoir can also trap Pokemon with the ability Magnet Pull and support its team to its heart’s content.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>The third move depends solely on which Pokemon you’re aiming to support. If your sweeper is relatively slow and hates being inflicted with status, Swords Dance Rhyperior for example, then Taunt might be the best option to run with. Preventing the use of stat-up moves, Substitute, Reflect, and Light Screen can also prove to be beneficial to a sweeper. Psychic can be used for Pokemon who cannot take hits from the likes of Infernape and Machamp well; Adamant Dragon Dance Tyranitar for example, would appreciate both Infernape and Machamp out of the way. Because the EVs allow Gardevoir to outspeed Adamant Gyarados, running Thunderbolt might not be a bad idea – OHKOing the demonic water snake before it gets the chance to use Dragon Dance. The final moveslot, once again, is dependant on which Pokemon you’re attempting to bring in. Memento gives your sweeper a very open shot at switching in, setting up whatever it needs and rampaging on your opponent’s team. Do keep in mind that Memento’s stat drops have the same priority of any other stat drop, meaning that the stat drops will not hit Pokemon behind a Substitute or Pokemon with the abilities Clear Body and White Smoke. Healing Wish, on the other hand, should only be used later in the game, as it doesn’t necessarily give your sweeper multiple turns to set up; Healing Wish only, as the name suggests, fully heals the next switch-in’s HP and cures any of its status ailments, bringing them back to peak health. Wish is another option for this set if you don’t want to sacrifice Gardevoir, but without Leftovers recovery and Protect, Gardevoir will be losing more HP that it gains from Wish on occasion.</p>

<p>The EVs allow Gardevoir to hit a 262 Speed, outpacing Adamant Gyarados, so it can get a Reflect up or Taunt Gyarados before it attempts to use Dragon Dance. If you feel safe against Gyarados or if you’re running Thunderbolt, then the spread, 252 HP / 60 SpD / 196 Spe with a Calm nature, is another option. This places Gardevoir at a 245 Speed, outplacing most defensive variants of Celebi as well as Jolly Tyranitar.</p>

<p>You should aim to support Pokemon that don’t require multiple turns in order to set up a sweep. Dragon Dance Salamence, Swords Dance Lucario, and Nasty Plot Azelf don’t require more than a single turn of setup in order to pull off a sweep. Dragon Dance Tyranitar is another partner to choose from, as it can now run another item due to Reflect preventing Scizor from revenging it easily. Baton Pass Gliscor would also appreciate screen support and the free turns that Memento brings it. Try to steer away from Pokemon that will be forced out regardless of whether or not Reflect and Light Screen are up; Jirachi can still be forced out by Heatran, Suicune still fears attacks from Jolteon, etc.</p>

<p>With Spikes and Stealth Rock, Gardevoir can secure multiple KOs if it chooses Psychic as an offensive option. Foretress and Skarmory are excellent partners for Gardevoir; Foretress can Spin away other entry hazards while Skarmory can scout the opposing team. If you decide to run Thunderbolt or Taunt, then consider using Aerodactyl, Metagross, Heatran, Jirachi, or Azelf as a lead; All of the mentioned Pokemon can reliably use Stealth Rock and give Gardevoir a safe switch in.</p>

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Nice write-up!

Overview


OU Wish Support


OU Dual Screen


Wow, that took a while. A lot of mistakes, but that's to be expected, it's your first analysis :) Good job overall! ;)

<p>You should aim to support Pokemon who don’t require multiple turns in order to set up a sweep. Dragon Dance Salamence, Swords Dance Lucario and Nasty Plot Azelf don’t require more than a single turn of setup in order to pull off a sweep. Dragon Dance Tyranitar is another partner to choose from, as it can now run another item due to Reflect preventing Scizor from revenging it easily. Baton Pass Gliscor would also appreciate screen support and the free turns that Memento brings it. Try to steer away from Pokemon who will be forced out regardless of whether or not Reflect and Light Screen are up; Jirachi can still be forced out by Heatran, Suicune still fears attacks from Jolteon, etc.</p>

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"Pokemon are people". Nice writeup though!

Bumping this since I'm finally able to work on this analysis, again ~_~. I'm 90% sure that this is finished, I just need a few proofreads. Also, for the curious, I tried Trick Room out for a while and tbh, Gardevoir didn't do anything different from Bronzong or Uxie, so I moved that option down to OC.

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Oxymentus said:

~Gardevoir~
Status: Working on this, again
Team Options are in Purple

[Overview]
<p>Support-oriented Psychic-types (excluding Bronzong and Jirachi) must always be cautious of performing their task in the OU metagame due to powerful Pursuit users such as Scizor and Tyranitar trapping and killing them without much effort; Gardevoir, however, sets itself apart from other Psychic-types with its unique movepool. Gardevoir also has the rare ability Trace, which gives it plenty of chances to switch in and support its team. At first glance, Gardevoir’s low Defense stat is a bit off-putting, but with access to Reflect and Will-O-Wisp, it can be bypassed to an extent. On the contrary to its pitiful Defense, Gardevoir’s base 115 Special Defense stat allows it to sponge hits from bulkier Special Attackers such as Suicune and Blissey for example, very well. With continuous damage from Toxic or Toxic Spikes, Gardevoir can even out-stall the aforementioned Pokemon without much effort.</p>

<p>While Gardevoir can support its team in a wide variety of ways, it has trouble switching in on attacks hitting it for even neutral damage and entry hazards since it lacks immediate recovery outside of Rest. Relying on Gardevoir as a check for multiple Pokemon is strongly discouraged. You should ensure that your team isn’t forced out by commonly used Pokemon such as Heatran and Blissey too often.</p>

[SET]
name: OU Wish Support
move 1: Wish
move 2: Will-O-Wisp
move 3: Taunt
move 4: Protect / Psychic
item: Leftovers
ability: Trace
nature: Calm
evs: 252 HP / 64 SpD / 192 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>This set aims to set Gardevoir apart from other Psychic-types, by (or remove the ',') utilizing its versatile movepool and extremely useful ability, Trace. Wish tremendously helps Pokemon who require a reliable method of healing is a very helpful support option for teamates that don't have a form of reliable recovery and is Gardevoir’s most reliable form of recovery, making it an invaluable choice for this set. With the overabundance of Pursuit users and strong Physical attackers in OU, Gardevoir’s Defense stat will be targeted more than often. Will-O-Wisp can provides Gardevoir with a permanent solution to its low Defense stat and can cripple a potential threat to its team. Taunt is recommended in the third slot as it prevents Blissey and Vaporeon from crippling Gardevoir with Toxic while keeping SubSeed variants of Breloom at bay; Taunt also prevents Gardevoir from being setup fodder for Calm Mind users.</p>

<p>Trace provides plenty of switch-in opportunities to into in the OU metagame, since many Pokemon can have their abilities used against themselves. Jolteon, Heatran, Vaporeon, and Electivire will not be able to hit Gardevoir with their primary STAB attacks, meaning they will more than likely switch can provide free switch on their STAB attacks, and will have to switch out if they are choiced. By Tracing Natural Cure, Gardevoir fears very little from Celebi or Blissey. If Choice Scarf Magnezone is locked into an attacking move, Gardevoir can come in and trap it with a Traced Magnet Pull, forcing the opponent to helplessly stay in as you go about giving your team all the support it needs. Choice Band and Choice Scarf Flygon will also be forced to switch out if Gardevoir switches in on Earthquake, but watch out for U-turn or its STAB Outrage. You may want to mention Gyarados and Salamence here, as Gardevoir could potentially switch into and burn them, though I'm not sure if Gardevoir would survive even an un-boosted attack from either of them.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>Gardevoir can fit a surprisingly effective niche on more many offensive teams with Encore in hand, as it gives a significant amount of Pokemon an easier time setting up. Moreover, Gardevoir also sports fantastic type synergy with powerful sweepers such as Lucario, Tyranitar, Salamence, Infernape, and Heatran. Unfortunately, Will-O-Wisp and Encore cannot be used together on the same set, but don’t let that deter you from using Encore, as Reflect is an equally viable option over Will-O-Wisp. Reflect might not be able provide Gardevoir’s team with an ever-lasting solution to Physical attackers, but it has quite a few advantages over Will-O-Wisp. Unlike Will-O-Wisp, Reflect isn’t affected by accuracy, meaning that Gardevoir no longer has to worry about the 25% chance of not cutting the opposing Pokemon’s Attack by half. Secondly, Reflect only needs one use every few turns, allowing for a myriad of options, ranging from using Wish in order to heal off any damage taken, to switching in another Pokemon. Does it really provide myriad options? I would reword as: allowing Gardevoir to use Wish, Encore, or switch appropriately. Finally, Reflect can prevent Pokemon that are immune to burns – Toxic Orb Breloom, Infernape, and ResTalk Gyarados to name a few – from doing any significant damage.</p>

<p>The final slot is complicated because each choice changes how Gardevoir can be played. With Protect, Gardevoir has a more reliable method of recovery as well as the ability to scout for Choice-locked attackers and Explosion. Protect really shows itself to be a very good option when Gardevoir is faced with the impasse that all Psychic-types fear: Pursuit. Because Pursuit is usually shot off from slower, Choiced attackers, Gardevoir can stay in use Will-O-Wisp (or Reflect) without much fear; however, Gardevoir can take a hefty chunk of damage from any other attack that hits it for super-effective or even neutral damage. Protect can significantly increase Gardevoir’s survivability, making it a great option on this set. Though Taunt greatly benefits Gardevoir why? you may want to mention the merits of Taunt again here, Heal Bell is an equally viable option to choose from. Heal Bell gives Gardevoir a better niche on stall-oriented teams, as Pokemon such as Hippowdon and Vaporeon cannot utilize Rest and Sleep Talk in order to heal themselves from status ailments. Gardevoir also falls into the group of Pokemon that can’t use Rest and Sleep Talk effectively, making Heal Bell a worthy option if switch Gardevoir in on Toxic Spikes, or a move that inflicts status.</p>

<p>Psychic is Gardevoir's strongest STAB option and can 2HKO and OHKO numerous Pokemon in OU. 252 HP / 0 SpD Jolly Gliscor for example, is 2HKOed by Psychic when factoring in Stealth Rock damage; Infernape, Gengar and Breloom are OHKOed while Machamp, Heracross and Choice Scarf Rotom-A are 2HKOed. Psychic can also lure Tyranitar, Metagross and Scizor into a Will-O-Wisp. Despite its shaky accuracy and low PP, Focus Blast is another offensive option to choose from; with Focus Blast, Gardevoir now has an option against Tyranitar, Scizor, Magnezone and Heatran. If bulkier variants of Gyarados, Suicune, and Vaporeon cause your team problems, then Thunderbolt is another option. Light Screen and Toxic are lesser, but, useful options that allow Gardevoir to take on Latias and Rotom-A without much trouble. It’s recommended that those two moves, as well as any other unmentioned choice for this set, are placed in the final two slots; without Wish, Gardevoir can’t heal and without Will-O-Wisp, Gardevoir is more prone to the onslaughts of Hippowdon and Swampert as well as Pursuit from Scizor and Tyranitar.</p>

<p>With the current spread, Gardevoir outpaces Jolly Tyranitar so it can use Will-O-Wisp before it gets the chance to use Dragon Dance or Crunch. If max Speed Tyranitar is of little concern to you, then an alternate spread, 252 HP / 120 SpD / 132 Spe, can be used. This spread drops Speed for a bit more bulk, while still outplacing most variants of Scizor and Choice Band Tyranitar.</p>

<p>Gardevoir’s main problem lies in its low Speed stat, as it gives faster Pokemon the ability to set up on Gardevoir. Taunt may be able to prevent faster Pokemon from using their stat boosting moves, but keep in mind that after Taunt wears off, they’ll be able to heal or stack on another boost before Gardevoir uses Taunt again. Dragon Dancers and faster Calm Minders are what Gardevoir needs to worry about; Choice Scarf Flygon can take out most Dragon Dancers and Calm Mind. If offensive Calm Mind Suicune becomes a pain, then Choice Specs Jolteon can be used to quickly dispatch of it.</p>

<p> Gardevoir has the ability to stall out even Blissey with the use of Taunt and Wish when given support from two layers of Toxic Spikes. Forretress can set up and Spin away Toxic Spikes and any other entry hazard. Tentacruel can lay down Toxic Spikes as well, and it comes with the luxury of absorbing Toxic Spikes upon entry. Rest + Sleep Talk Drapion can use Toxic Spikes, absorb Toxic Spikes upon entry, check Rotom-A, Gengar and Latias, making it too an effective partner for Gardevoir. Even though it doesn't sound like the best idea to use Toxic Spikes along with Will-O-Wisp, Gardevoir will be crippling Steel and Flying types, who are immune to Toxic Spikes, more than anything.</p>

<p>It should be noted that all of the mentioned partners will appreciate Wish and / or burn support from Gardevoir.</p>

[SET]
name: OU Dual Screen
move 1: Light Screen
move 2: Reflect
move 3: Taunt / Psychic
move 4: Healing Wish / Memento
item: Light Clay
ability: Trace
nature: Timid
evs: 252 HP / 84 SpD / 172 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>Much like its Psychic type siblings, Gardevoir can use both Reflect and Light Screen, but with Trace and access to moves that can greatly aid another Pokemon’s sweep, Gardevoir can once again separate itself from other Psychic-types. Light Screen and Reflect can turn even frail sweepers such as Azelf and Lucario into monstrous powerhouses.</p>

<p>Trace is a wonderful ability, providing Gardevoir numerous opportunities to switch in and set up both screens since many Pokemon in the OU metagame can have their abilities used against them. Tracing Water Absorb, Flash Fire, Volt Absorb, Motor Drive, and Levitate provides Gardevoir with an immunity upon switching in, giving it an easier time setting up both Reflect and Light Screen. Gardevoir can also trap Pokemon with the ability Magnet Pull and support its team to its heart’s content.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>The third move depends solely on which Pokemon you’re aiming to support. If your sweeper is relatively slow and hates being inflicted with status, then Taunt might be the best option to use. Psychic can be used for Pokemon who cannot take hits from the likes of Infernape and Machamp well; Adamant Dragon Dance Tyranitar, for example, would appreciate both Infernape and Machamp out of the way. Since the EVs allow Gardevoir to outspeed Adamant Gyarados, running Thunderbolt might not be a bad idea; it would allows Gardevoir to OHKO Gyarados before it would get the chance to use Dragon Dance. The final moveslot, once again, is dependant on which Pokemon you’re attempting to bring in. Memento gives your sweeper a very open shot at switching free switch-in, setting up whatever it needs and rampaging through your opponent’s team. Do keep in mind that Memento’s stat drops have the same priority of any other stat drop, meaning that the stat drops will not hit Pokemon behind a Substitute or Pokemon with the abilities Clear Body or White Smoke. Healing Wish on the other hand, should only be used later in the game, as it doesn’t necessarily give your sweeper multiple turns to set up. Encore can give another Pokemon at least two turns of set up; however, under dual screens, only extremely frail Pokemon that have a difficult time setting up, Belly Drum Linoone for example, will benefit from the free turns. Wish is another option for this set if you don’t want to sacrifice Gardevoir, but without Leftovers recovery and Protect, Gardevoir will be losing more HP that it gains from Wish most of the time.</p>

<p>The EVs allow Gardevoir to hit 262 Speed, outpacing Adamant Gyarados, so it can get a Reflect up or Taunt Gyarados before it attempts to use Dragon Dance. If you feel safe against Gyarados or if you’re running Thunderbolt, then the spread 252 HP / 60 SpD / 196 Spe with a Calm nature is another option. This places Gardevoir at 245 Speed, outpacing most defensive variants of Celebi as well as Dragon Dance Tyranitar.</p>

<p>You should aim to support Pokemon that don’t require multiple turns in order to set up a sweep. Dragon Dance Salamence, Swords Dance Lucario, and Nasty Plot Azelf don’t require more than a single turn of set up in order to pull off a sweep. Dragon Dance Tyranitar is another partner to choose from, as it can now run another item due to Reflect preventing Scizor from revenging it easily. Baton Pass Gliscor would also appreciate dual screens support and the free turns that Memento brings it. Try to steer away from Pokemon that will be forced out regardless of whether or not Reflect and Light Screen are up; Jirachi can still be forced out by Heatran, Suicune still fears attacks from Jolteon, etc.</p>

[Team Options]

<p>Despite the fact that Trace gives Gardevoir multiple chances to switch in safely, Gardevoir has to worry about switching in and out continuously, as it’s not built to take multiple (though, relatively weak) hits from Suicune, Jirachi and the like; entry hazards also hamper Gardevoir’s survivability. As mentioned before, it’s strongly recommended that you bring second Pokemon to take hits for Gardevoir. It’s also suggested that you bring a Rapid Spinner into the fray as well.</p>

<p>Gardevoir can shut down a great amount of Pokemon with its movepool, making entry hazards very effective when using it. Gardevoir can also work effectively on stall teams, making Hippowdon a very viable choice for a partner, since it can set up Stealth Rock with relative ease and get a sandstorm going from the start. Forretress is a very good partner for Gardevoir, seeing as it can set up Stealth Rock, Spikes, and Toxic Spikes as well as use Rapid Spin to heighten the chances of Gardevoir switching in safely; Gardevoir and Forretress sport excellent type synergy with one another and with Trace, Gardevoir can prevent Heatran and Jolteon from overpowering Forretress on occasion. Swampert can lay down Stealth Rock and it comes with the added bonus of being able to take on Tyranitar, Scizor, and Calm Mind Jirachi, some of Gardevoir’s largest threats. Skarmory can get Spikes onto the field with little to no trouble and would greatly appreciate Magnezone being taken out of the game by Gardevoir. While it doesn’t make much sense having two Special sponges on the same team, Blissey makes an excellent partner for Gardevoir with its cleric set. Gardevoir can keep Blissey alive with Wish and Will-O-Wisp while Blissey can prevent Gardevoir being incapacitated by status. Heatran’s Torment set works very well with Gardevoir’s Wish support set; both Pokemon can take on each other’s threats with relative ease while maintaining great type synergy. Vaporeon and Suicune can remove a substantial amount of weight from Gardevoir’s shoulders, as they can both take on Gyarados, Suicune and Heatran with little to no problems. Machamp can work well with Gardevoir if you decide to opt for Heal Bell.</p>

<p>On the offensive side, Choice Scarf Tyranitar makes a great partner for Gardevoir, since it can remove Rotom-A and Gengar from play while Gardevoir can alleviate it of burns and paralysis with Heal Bell. Lucario resists all of Gardevoir's weaknesses and can become an incredibly frightening force if it switches in on Pokemon locked into Pursuit, Stone Edge, Toxic, or any other move that is of little harm to it. Gyarados can switch in on Gardevoir's Bug weakness and proceed to set up multiple Dragon Dances. In addition to that, Gyarados has no problem setting up on Skarmory, Crocune, Scizor, and Swampert. Ironically, Why is this ironic? Sorry if I'm just missing something Heracross is a decent partner for Gardevoir, seeing as how it doesn't mind being hit with Toxic, Dark-type attacks, and most Shadow Balls.</p>

[Optional Changes]

<p>Gardevoir’s movepool is vast, giving it several options to choose from if the recommended moves don’t fit your preferences. Grass Knot and Energy Ball rid the field of Vaporeon and Swampert, but you won’t find much use for them otherwise. Shadow Ball can nail Latias and Rotom-A for super effective damage. Signal Beam can 2HKO Celebi, but there’s very little use for it outside of that. While Icy Wind may not appear to be viable due its low base power, but the Speed drop makes it a worthwhile option. Salamence, Gliscor and Breloom are 2HKOed by Icy Wind and the Speed drop prevents them from doing much. Icy Wind works best alongside Taunt, as it prevents most Pokemon from using Gardevoir as set up fodder. Charge Beam can turn Gardevoir into an offensive threat, but don’t expect it to go very far.</p>

<p>Gardevoir can use Sunny Day and Rain Dance alongside Encore, but you’ll quickly find out that Pokemon better suited for taking hits, such as Bronzong and Heatran, can utilize either weather move better. Gardevoir use Calm Mind with Focus Blast or Will-O-Wisp, but it requires a significant amount of support in order to do any noticeable damage. Gardevoir can put its low Speed to use with Trick Room, but you’ll quickly find out that Bronzong, Uxie, and other Psychic-types will be able utilize Trick Room better. Choice Specs places Gardevoir’s Special Attack at 574, allowing it to its switch-ins very hard with a plethora of attacks. A Choice Scarf set is usable, but is entirely outclassed by Latias with the exception of Focus Blast. Gardevoir can use the infamous parafusion tactic with Confuse Ray and Thunder Wave. Destiny Bond may seem tempting, but Gardevoir’s low Speed stat prevents it from making use of it.</p>

<p>There are multiple unmentioned EV spreads that can benefit Gardevoir. 252 HP / 48 SpA / 176 SpD / 32 Spe with a Modest nature is an option if you choose to take Gardevoir on the offensive with Thunderbolt and / or Psychic; this spread gives Gardevoir the ability to beat Suicune, Vaporeon, Heracross, and even Machamp most of the time when given Stealth Rock support. 252 HP / 20 SpD / 236 Spe with a Timid nature can be used. With 280 Speed, Gardevoir can outpace Adamant Lucario, allowing it to set up a Reflect and before it gets the chance to use Crunch or Encore its Swords Dance. Finally, you can invest into Gardevoir’s Defense stat with the spread, 252 HP / 124 Def / 132 Spe with a Bold nature, drastically reducing the amount of damage Gardevoir takes from burned physical attackers. Ultimately however, you'll find that Jirachi can run a defensive spread much better.</p>

<p> Synchronize can work well with Heal Bell, but Trace is overall more useful to Gardevoir. Gardevoir has a physical movepool, but don’t attempt to use it; Gardevoir has a paltry base 65 Attack stat and no Attack-stat boosting moves to prevent it from being underpowered. I don't see the point of even mentioning this</p>

[Counters]

<p>Latias can switch in on every move that Gardevoir can throw at it and set multiple Calm Minds up in Gardevoir’s face, take a massive chunk of its HP out with Draco Meteor, or cripple it with Trick. Despite Will-O-Wisp halving damage done to Gardevoir on the physical side of the spectrum, strong physical attackers such as Scizor and Machamp can still cause a hefty amount of damage with U-turn and Payback respectively. Heracross can switch in safely on every attack in Gardevoir’s arsenal sans Psychic and proceed to OHKO with its STAB Megahorn and with Guts, Heracross actually prefers switching in on Will-O-Wisp. As mentioned before, faster Calm Minders, Jirachi, Suicune and Latias can outpace Gardevoir before it can use Taunt and proceed to wear it down with their strong STAB attacks.</p>

<p>Trace give Gardevoir multiple chances to switch in on the likes of Heatran and Jolteon, but Trace doesn’t prevent those same Pokemon from switching in on Gardevoir and pounding on it with their strong STAB attacks. Due to this, Heatran and Electivire on Gardevoir can switch in on Gardevoir most of the time and wear it down with their respective STAB attacks. Gardevoir’s main weaknesses lie in its low Speed and Defense stats; abuse those weaknesses when attempting to counter it.</p>

<p>Trace give Gardevoir multiple chances to switch in on the likes of Heatran and Jolteon, but Trace doesn’t prevent those same Pokemon from switching in on Gardevoir and pounding on it with their strong STAB attacks. Due to this, Heatran and Electivire on Gardevoir most of the time and wear it down with their respective STAB attacks. Gardevoir’s main weaknesses lie in its low Speed and Defense stats; abuse those weaknesses when attempting to counter it.</p>

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I'm not sold on Gardevoir's usefulness in OU, so moved to the QC forum.

I'm pretty much in agreement the only set I could see being possibly viable is dual screen which is done better by a lot of other OU Pokemon.

Yeah, I didn't really pay much attention to the DS set after testing it, but I moved it up since it's definitely better than the support set >_>. I also changed the spread and made Focus Blast the primary option since Gardevoir attracts both Tyranitar and Lucario.

The Wish support set works, but requires a bit of effort to play correctly.

Yeah, I pretty much see Gardevoir as a bad Cresselia in OU. It's probably the worst wishpasser, and its terrible physical defenses makes even the ability to reflect Intimidate with Trace rather moot. This gets a no from me.

I'm not keen on these sets, I fail to see their entire usefulness. To begin with, Trace isn't really that great, as both sets don't invest EVs into Defense, making Gardevoir that way rather unreliable when it comes to check threats such as Gyarados and Salamence -- speaking of Gyarados, it is worth mentioning that the bulky set can completely disable both of the posted sets of Gardevoir by using Taunt. On the other hand, there is the issue that Cresselia would make a better use of most of the listed moves, as it is a much more bulky Pokemon with access to a better trait as well. I'm sorry but I don't approve these sets.

I'd look into a Calm Minder set for OU. While Gardevoir is relatively slow, it has a lot of chances to switch in and has access to Focus Blast, something Azelf does not. From my experience, its a decent Pokemon although you probably need to dedicate a whole team to it for it to be truly effective.

Why would I want to CM with Gardevoir instead of one of the many actually GOOD Calm Mind users in OU? Suicune is faster, bulkier, with a better typing, Jirachi has a better movepool, better typing, and more defense, Celebi has that neat Grass STAB that helps it out somewhat, Azelf can just Nasty Plot, etc.

Like the other sets I don't see the need for CM Gardevoir, there are better choices to the point you should never need to use any of these sets in OU.

You could suggest this for uu or nu where it would work much better.

We appreciate your contribution, but we don't feel like those sets are viable enough to be put on-site. However, don't feel discouraged for this, QC will always attend any set that gets posted. We have already hit three disapprovals, so I'm moving this to where it needs to be.