Aerodactyl [GP 2/2]

Molk

Godlike Usmash
is a Top Tutor Alumnusis a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Team Rater Alumnusis a Senior Staff Member Alumnusis a Community Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Discord Contributor Alumnusis a Top Tiering Contributor Alumnusis a Top Contributor Alumnus



taken over for lady salamence

first analysis so please bear with me!!!!

BIG thanks to AccidentalGreed for helping me out with my first analysis


[Overview]

<p>The generation shift has been somewhat cruel to Aerodactyl. The introduction of Team Preview eliminates Aerodactyl's niche as a foolproof lead, and with more checks and counters to add to its original ones, most players tend to pick out other choices for a fast attacker or an entry hazard user. In addition to this, a Stealth Rock weakness and general frailty don't do Aerodactyl any favors in the metagame either.</p>

<p>It would be a mistake, however, to discount Aerodactyl as a mere negligible threat. In a metagame where most attackers top the 100 Speed baseline, Aerodactyl's base 130 Speed still towers above most others, enabling it to vanquish the likes of Terrakion and Thundurus before they can do more trouble. Additionally, a decent Attack stat and access to Taunt still allow Aerodactyl to provide offensive Stealth Rock support. While the prehistoric pterosaur won't be touching certain threats, you'll find that by using it to its strengths, Aerodactyl can be an awesome source of offense and utility in your hands.</p>

[SET]
name: OU Hone Claws
move 1: Hone Claws
move 2: Stone Edge
move 3: Aqua Tail
move 4: Fire Fang / Roost
item: Life Orb
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>Aerodactyl is one of the select few sweepers that can make efficient use of Hone Claws, and with its ability to force out many threats thanks to the threat of its blistering Speed, it's not difficult to pull off one boost. Additionally, Aerodactyl doesn't have to function with a Hone Claws boost; in any situation, it can simply fire off its already-strong attacks to revenge kill or clean up anything in its way.</p>

<p>Taking one Hone Claws boost, Life Orb, and STAB in account, Stone Edge becomes an even mightier and accurate attack than it already is, which allows Aerodactyl to 2HKO even physically defensive Skarmory after Stealth Rock damage. Aqua Tail is the preferred secondary attacking option, which, after the boost, 2HKOes all variants of Gliscor and Hippowdon and OHKOes any defensive Tyranitar with prior damage. Additionally, both Aqua Tail and Stone Edge already provide decent coverage with each other, so Roost is an option in the last slot to heal off any damage previously taken. However, Fire Fang might be appealing for invaluable coverage against Ferrothorn (and to an extent, Scizor), who walls the aforementioned attack combination.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>Other attacking options include Earthquake and Ice Fang over Aqua Tail and Fire Fang; by using these moves, Aerodactyl gains coverage against Gastrodon and can hit Gliscor, Tyranitar, and Jirachi much harder. While doing so would mean losing Aerodactyl's way to deal with opposing Ferrothorn and Scizor, you can simply employ teammates to take care of these two and, in return, gain arguably better coverage thanks to the EdgeQuake combo.</p>

<p>Seeing as Aerodactyl has crippling weaknesses to common priority moves in Bullet Punch, Ice Shard, and Aqua Jet, it is obviously necessary to eliminate users of these moves before switching Aerodactyl in freely. Magnezone is your best bet against Scizor, who threatens with STAB Bullet Punch, amongst other dangerous Steel-types that Aerodactyl has trouble with. You may also consider Jellicent or Tyranitar to wall common counters or to eliminate them with mixed sets, respectively. Stealth Rock damage will also be a major obstacle for Aerodactyl; an instant solution to this would either be a Rapid Spin user or a Pokemon with the ability Magic Bounce, such as Donphan and Espeon, respectively.</p>

[SET]
name: OU Offensive
move 1: Taunt
move 2: Stone Edge
move 3: Earthquake / Aqua Tail
move 4: Roost
item: Life Orb
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>This set forgoes the use of Hone Claws for the invaluable utility that Taunt provides, enabling Aerodactyl to bypass defensive and stall-oriented Pokemon more easily, while still being a threat towards offensive teams. Stone Edge is, once again, Aerodactyl's main attack, and when paired with Earthquake, provides nearly-unresisted dual coverage (with the exception of certain threats such as Bronzong). Aqua Tail, however, can replace Earthquake for the purpose of hitting Ground-type threats harder. Finally, Roost is used in the last slot to alleviate any Life Orb recoil and damage Aerodactyl might have sustained, in addition to nullifying the weaknesses given by its Flying typing.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>For other attacking options, you may consider using the elemental fangs to achieve coverage against certain threats; however, on a set more starved for power outside of Life Orb, Roost would prove more necessary in most situations. The same usually applies for other certain attacks, such as Fire Blast. Crunch is worthy of mention simply for giving Aerodactyl coverage against Psychic- and Ghost-type threats, such as Reuniclus and Jellicent, that would normally give it a hard time.</p>

<p>This set is best used in permanent sandstorm, preferably provided by a mixed Tyranitar, where Aerodactyl's Special Defense is boosted to a decent level of usability with Roost. This also makes it one of the best Heatran and Volcarona switch-ins in the game, if your team happens to have trouble with them. As usual, Aerodactyl has trouble hitting certain Steel-types hard enough, so Magnezone is, once again, a good teammate due to its ability to trap and defeat these threats. Keep in mind that this kind of Aerodactyl requires alternative offensive support to bypass some bulky threats as well, since its PP and coverage are limited to two moves.</p>

[SET]
name: OU Steath Rock
move 1: Taunt
move 2: Stone Edge
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Stealth Rock
item: Focus Sash
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>This set was Aerodactyl's standard set in DPP, but due to the advent of Team Preview, it can no longer maintain its image as the "ideal" Stealth Rock lead. The set's composition, however, remains the same; Aerodactyl should aim to set up Stealth Rock early-game while preventing the opposing team from laying its own using a fast Taunt. Whether Aerodactyl is played first-turn or later depends on the opposing team and whatever strategy the opponent uses according to Team Preview.</p>

<p>You may be wondering why one would use this set over Deoxys-S, who sports arguably better bulk and much higher Speed to abuse Taunt. While Deoxys-S is obviously dominant in the Speed department, the main thing to consider is Aerodactyl's offensive presence in comparison to Deoxys-S's; Deoxys-S is most commonly seen using only one move for specific targets, after which it can't threaten anything else. Aerodactyl, however, is able to use the EdgeQuake combo, which provides better coverage against threats that Deoxys-S can’t hurt, such as Ninetales, Jirachi, Thundurus, and Volcarona. Additionally, Aerodactyl's Speed is satisfactory enough to let it outspeed and revenge kill Adamant +1 Gyarados and Dragonite so it's useful outside of the lead position.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>Since Aerodactyl is primarily required to survive attacks and set up, the best item is Focus Sash, which also allows Aerodactyl a second chance to fulfill its duties if it mispredicts with Taunt. Aerodactyl also won't gain anything better outside of fully investing in its Attack and Speed to threaten its foes.</p>

<p>This set is a great way to support your team's sweepers and help them score some key KOs. A good example of this is Scrafty, who gains the ability to 2HKO most physical walls, especially Skarmory and Hippowdon, after an Attack boost. In fact, most set-up sweepers like Scrafty generally enjoy having Stealth Rock on the opponent's side of the field to wear down certain opponents to KO range. Additionally, teams that utilize entry hazards usually enjoy having Ghost-type teammates to block any opposing Rapid Spin users. In this case, Gengar is most notable for having a reliable list of resistances and attacking options against a variety of foes, including Espeon who also threatens with Magic Bounce.</p>

<p>Since this sets main goal is to support its team it doesn't require any specific team options to achieve it, so it will do on any balanced or offensive teams that require its capabilities. it doesn't have specific counters either, as opposing dedicated leads (except some variants of Deoxys-S) are basically irrelevent in the current metagame.</p>

[Other Options]

<p>Aerodactyl can utilize Substitute, which, along with Roost and Pressure, allows it to stall out many threats in permanent sandstorm. This, however, may be more easily performed by a dedicated support or defensive Pokemon, but Aerodactyl's high Attack and Speed differentiate it from them in this case. Additionally, you may consider using Choice Band to further boost Aerodactyl's offense, although, considering Aerodactyl's limited coverage and vulnerability to bulky threats and revenge killers, it's an inferior option.</p>

[Checks and Counters]

<p>Perhaps Aerodactyl's most exploitable weakness is its inability to hit extremely hard, so physically bulky threats should have no problem taking its attacks (and sometimes even super effective ones) and retaliate with the appropriate move. Of course, the opponent can go the offensive route and bypass Aerodactyl's Speed by using a revenge killer of some sort, such as Choice Scarf users and most priority moves. This applies mainly to Scizor and Conkeldurr, both of whom can sponge any common attack Aerodactyl throws at them and react with Bullet Punch or Mach Punch, respectively. Any kind of status is also detrimental to Aerodactyl, whether its Speed is quartered with paralysis, offense lowered with burn, or health drained with poison.</p>
 
I like the Hone Claws set, but what about running Earthquake and Ice Fang instead of Aqua Tail and Fire Fang? Fire Fang/Roost seems like a waste of a moveslot, since Ferrothorn might survive a +1 Fire Fang anyways and Scizor will outright kill Aerodactyl with Bullet Punch or Pursuit. I just don't see Fire Fang being used often, if at all. Same goes for Roost. Aerodactyl's defenses are just terrible. It can't afford to spend a turn healing itself when it could attack and KO a pokemon.

With Earthquake you'd gain good coverage through EdgeQuake and with +1 Ice Fang, is it possible to OHKO Gliscor and Landorus?
 

AccidentalGreed

Sweet and bitter as chocolate.
is a Forum Moderator Alumnusis a Top Contributor Alumnus
I like the Hone Claws set, but what about running Earthquake and Ice Fang instead of Aqua Tail and Fire Fang? Fire Fang/Roost seems like a waste of a moveslot, since Ferrothorn might survive a +1 Fire Fang anyways and Scizor will outright kill Aerodactyl with Bullet Punch or Pursuit. I just don't see Fire Fang being used often, if at all. Same goes for Roost. Aerodactyl's defenses are just terrible. It can't afford to spend a turn healing itself when it could attack and KO a pokemon.

With Earthquake you'd gain good coverage through EdgeQuake and with +1 Ice Fang, is it possible to OHKO Gliscor and Landorus?
It's already been mentioned in the additional comments.

Also, sorry Kyurem, but I forgot a couple of things:


  • <p>As a note, because Aerodactyl serves as a “Suicide Rocker” suicide lead and attacker, it doesn’t require specific defensive synergy, so it will do on any balanced or offensive teams that require its capabilities. This set also doesn’t have specific counters, since leads it had trouble with opposing dedicated leads (except Deoxys-S) are basically irrelavent in the current metagame.</p>
  • Also fix any curly apostrophes and quote marks we might have left
 

Pocket

be the upgraded version of me
is a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Team Rater Alumnusis a Community Leader Alumnusis a Community Contributor Alumnusis a Tiering Contributor Alumnusis a Top Contributor Alumnus
Great analysis for your first try, Kyurem! Just some nitpicks:

Checks & Counters: Speed drops by fourth, not by half, when paralyzed.

Hone Claws -> Additioncal Comment -> 2nd para: a typo, "tp" instead of "to"

good job, Molten Kyurem!
 

Molk

Godlike Usmash
is a Top Tutor Alumnusis a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Team Rater Alumnusis a Senior Staff Member Alumnusis a Community Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Discord Contributor Alumnusis a Top Tiering Contributor Alumnusis a Top Contributor Alumnus
Great analysis for your first try, Kyurem! Just some nitpicks:

Checks & Counters: Speed drops by fourth, not by half, when paralyzed.

Hone Claws -> Additioncal Comment -> 2nd para: a typo, "tp" instead of "to"

good job, Molten Kyurem!
okay the errors have been fixed!
 

SJCrew

Believer, going on a journey...
is a Tiering Contributor Alumnusis a Battle Simulator Moderator Alumnus
Change Aerodactyl's utility set from "Suicide Rocker" to "Stealth Rock". It's not a lead anymore and doesn't have to die doing its job. Metagross had to make this adjustment in transition to the new metagame, simply changing its lead set to "Stealth Rock". Aerodactyl should be treated similarly.
 
remove
add
comments

[Overview]
(remove space)

<p>The generation shift has generally been somewhat cruel to Aerodactyl. With The introduction of Team Preview, which eliminates Aerodactyl’s niche as a foolproof lead, and more checks and counters to add to its original ones,(remove).(add) Thus, most players tend to pick out other choices for a fast attacker or an entry hazard user. In addition to this, a Stealth Rock weakness and general frailty doesn’t do Aerodactyl any favors in the metagame either.</p>

<p>It would be a mistake, however, to discount Aerodactyl as a mere negligible threat. In a metagame where most attackers top the 100 Speed baseline, Aerodactyl’s base 130 Speed still towers above most others, enabling it to vanquish the likes of Terrakion(I was thinking of a threat that couldn't boost its Speed...) and Thundurus before they can do more trouble. Additionally, a decent Attack stat and access to Taunt still allow Aerodactyl to provide do favors if your team ever requires offensive Stealth Rock support. While the prehistoric pterosaur won’t be touching certain threats, you’ll find that by using it to its strengths, Aerodactyl can will be an awesome source of offense and utility in your hands.</p>
(remove all but one space)



[SET]
name: Hone Claws
move 1: Hone Claws
move 2: Stone Edge
move 3: Aqua Tail
move 4: Fire Fang / Roost
item: Life Orb
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>Aerodactyl is one of the select few sweepers that can make efficient use of Hone Claws, and with its ability to force out many threats thanks to the threat of its blistering speed, it’s not difficult to pull off just one boost. Additionally, Aerodactyl doesn’t have to function with a Hone Claws boost; in any situation, it can simply fire off its already-strong attacks to revenge kill or clean up anything in its way. </p>

<p>Taking one Hone Claws boost, Life Orb, and STAB in account, Stone Edge becomes an even more mighty and accurate attack than it already is, allowing it to 2HKO .(remove) To put this in perspective, even physically defensive Skarmory has a chance to be 2HKOed (46.7% - 55.1%), which is guaranteed with Stealth Rock damage. Aqua Tail is the preferred secondary attacking option, which, after the boost, 2HKOes all variants of Gliscor and Hippowdon and OHKOes any defensive Tyranitar with prior damage. Additionally, both Aqua Tail and Stone Edge already provide decent coverage with each other, so Roost is an option in the last slot to heal off any damage previously taken. However, Fire Fang might be appealing for invaluable coverage against Ferrothorn (and to an extent, Scizor), who walls the aforementioned attack combination.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
(remove space)

<p>Other attacking options include Earthquake and Ice Fang over Aqua Tail and Fire Fang; by using these moves, Aerodactyl gains coverage against Gastrodon and can hit Gliscor, Tyranitar, and Jirachi much harder. While doing so would mean losing Aerodactyl’s only defense against opposing Ferrothorn and Scizor, you can simply employ teammates to take care of these two and, in return, gain arguably better coverage thanks to the EdgeQuake combo.</p>

<p>Seeing as Aerodactyl has crippling weaknesses to common poiority moves in Bullet Punch, Ice Shard, and Aqua Jet, it is obviously necessary to eliminate users of these moves before switching Aerodactyl in freely. Magnezone is your best bet against Scizor, who threatens with STAB Bullet Punch, amongst other dangerous Steel-types that Aerodactyl has trouble with. You may also consider Jellicent or Tyranitar for walling common checks counters or eliminating them with mixed sets, respectively. Stealth Rock damage will also be a major obstacle for Aerodactyl; an instant solution to this would either be a Rapid Spin user or a Pokemon with the ability Magic Bounce, such as Donphan and Espeon, respectively. For example, Donphan can be counted on to provide Stealth Rock support while spinning away hazards on your side of the field, while Espeon can simply provide dual screen support for easier setup.</p>
(remove all but one space)


[SET]
name: Offensive
move 1: Taunt
move 2: Stone Edge
move 3: Earthquake / Aqua Tail
move 4: Roost
item: Life Orb
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>This set forgoes the use of Hone Claws for the valuable utility that Taunt provides, enabling Aerodactyl to bypass defensive and stall-oriented Pokémon more easily, while still being a threat towards offensive teams. Stone Edge is, once again, Aerodactyl’s main attack, and when paired with Earthquake, both Aerodactyl gets provide nearly-unresisted dual coverage (with the exception of certain threats such as Bronzong). Aqua Tail, however, can replace Earthquake for the purpose of hitting Ground-type threats harder. Finally, Roost is used in the last slot to alleviate any recoil and damage Aerodactyl might have sustained, in addition to nullifying the weaknesses given by its Flying typing.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>For other attacking options, you may consider using elemental fangs to achieve coverage against certain threats; however, on a set more starved for power outside of Life Orb, Roost would prove more necessary in most situations. The same usually applies for other certain attacks, such as Fire Blast, as well. Crunch is worthy of mention simply for giving Aerodactyl coverage against Psychic- and Ghost-type threats, such as Reuniclus and Jellicent, that would normally give it a hard time.</p>

<p>This set is best used in permanent sandstorm, preferably provided by a mixed (explain why mixed) Tyranitar, where Aerodactyl’s Special Defense is boosted to a decent level of usability with Roost. This also makes it one of the best Heatran and Volcarona switch-ins in the game, if your team happens to have trouble with it. As usual, Aerodactyl has trouble hitting certain Steel-types hard enough, so Magnezone is, once again, a good teammate due to its ability to trap and defeat these threats. Keep in mind that this kind of Aerodactyl requires alternative offensive support to bypass some bulky threats as well, since its PP and coverage is somewhat limited to two moves.</p>
(remove all but one space)


[SET]
name: Steath rock
move 1: Taunt
move 2: Stone Edge
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Stealth Rock
item: Focus Sash
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>This set has been was Aerodactyl’s standard set fare in the D/P previous generation, but due to the advent of thanks to the ceaseless threat of Team Preview, it can no longer maintain its image as the “ideal” Stealth Rock lead. The set’s composition, however, remains the same; Aerodactyl should aim to set up Stealth Rock early-game while preventing the opposing team from laying its own using a fast Taunt. Whether Aerodactyl is played first-turn or later depends on the opposing team and whatever strategy the opponent uses according to Team Preview.</p>

<p>You may be wondering why one would use this set over Deoxys-S, who sports an arguably better bulk and Speed (to abuse Taunt). While Deoxys-S is obviously dominant in the speed department, the main thing to consider is Aerodactyl's offensive presence in comparison to Deoxys-S’s own; Deoxys-S is most commonly seen using only one move for specific targets, after which it can’t threaten anything else. Aerodactyl, however, is required to use the EdgeQuake combo, which provides definitely better coverage against threats that Deoxys-S can’t hurt, such as Ninetales, Jirachi, Thundurus, and Volcarona. Additionally, Aerodactyl’s Speed is satisfactory enough to let it outspeed and revenge kill Adamant +1 Gyarados and Dragonite so it’s useful outside of the lead position(tbh this might be better on a different set but your call).</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>Since Aerodactyl is primarily required to survive attacks and set up, no item is better on this set other than Focus Sash, which also allows Aerodactyl a second chance to fulfill its duties if it mispredicts with Taunt. Aerodactyl also won’t gain anything better outside of maximafully investing in its Attack and Speed to threaten its foes. For other attacks, Rock Slide is an option over Stone Edge if the high flinch chance it provides is relevant to you. Rock Slide’s utility, however, has decreased due to the lack of opposing Focus Sash users to flinch.</p>

<p>This version of Aerodactyl is best used with sweepers that cannot KO certain opponents without Stealth Rock damage. A good example of this is Scrafty, who gains the ability to 2HKO most physical walls, especially Skarmory and Hippowdon, after an attack boost by either Bulk Up or Dragon Dance. In fact, most setup sweepers like Scrafty generally enjoy having Stealth Rock on their side to wear down certain opponents to KO range. Additionally, teams that utilize entry hazards usually enjoy having Ghost-type teammates to block any opposing Rapid Spin users. In this case, Gengar is most notable for having a reliable list of resistances and attacking options against a variety of foes, including Espeon, (who also threatens with Magic Bounce).</p>

<p>As a note, because Aerodactyl serves as a suicide lead and attacker it doesn’t require specific defensive synergy, so it will do on any balanced or offensive teams that require its capabilities. This set also doesn’t have specific counters, as opposing dedicated leads (except some variants of Deoxys-S) are basically irrelavent in the current metagame.</p>
(remove all but one space)



[Other Options]
(space)
<p>Aerodactyl can utilize Substitute, which, along with Roost and Pressure, allows it to stall out many threats in permanent sandstorm. This, however, may be more easily performed by a dedicated support or defensive Pokémon, but Aerodactyl’s high Attack and Speed differentiate it from them in this case. Additionally, you may consider using Choice Band to further boost Aerodactyl’s offense, although, considering Aerodactyl’s limited coverage and vulnerability to bulky threats and revenge killers, it’s an inferior option.</p>


[Checks and Counters]

<p>Perhaps Aerodactyl’s most exploitable weakness is its inability to hit extremely hard with its limited coverage, so physically-(space)bulky threats should have no problem taking its attacks (and sometimes even super effective ones) and retaliate with the appropriate move. Of course, the opponent can go the offensive route by bypassing Aerodactyl’s speed using a revenge killer of some sort, which includes such as users of Choice Scarf users and certain most priority moves users. This applies mainly to Scizor and Conkeldurr, both of whom can sponge any common attack Aerodactyl throws at them and react with Bullet Punch or Mach Punch, respectively. Any kind of status is also detrimental to Aerodactyl, whether its Speed is halved quartered with paralysis, offense lowered with burn, or health drained deteriorated with Toxic Poison.</p>

GP 1/2
 

Molk

Godlike Usmash
is a Top Tutor Alumnusis a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Team Rater Alumnusis a Senior Staff Member Alumnusis a Community Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Discord Contributor Alumnusis a Top Tiering Contributor Alumnusis a Top Contributor Alumnus
remove
add
comments

[Overview]
(remove space)

<p>The generation shift has generally been somewhat cruel to Aerodactyl. With The introduction of Team Preview, which eliminates Aerodactyl’s niche as a foolproof lead, and more checks and counters to add to its original ones,(remove).(add) Thus, most players tend to pick out other choices for a fast attacker or an entry hazard user. In addition to this, a Stealth Rock weakness and general frailty doesn’t do Aerodactyl any favors in the metagame either.</p>

<p>It would be a mistake, however, to discount Aerodactyl as a mere negligible threat. In a metagame where most attackers top the 100 Speed baseline, Aerodactyl’s base 130 Speed still towers above most others, enabling it to vanquish the likes of Terrakion(I was thinking of a threat that couldn't boost its Speed...) and Thundurus before they can do more trouble. Additionally, a decent Attack stat and access to Taunt still allow Aerodactyl to provide do favors if your team ever requires offensive Stealth Rock support. While the prehistoric pterosaur won’t be touching certain threats, you’ll find that by using it to its strengths, Aerodactyl can will be an awesome source of offense and utility in your hands.</p>
(remove all but one space)



[SET]
name: Hone Claws
move 1: Hone Claws
move 2: Stone Edge
move 3: Aqua Tail
move 4: Fire Fang / Roost
item: Life Orb
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>Aerodactyl is one of the select few sweepers that can make efficient use of Hone Claws, and with its ability to force out many threats thanks to the threat of its blistering speed, it’s not difficult to pull off just one boost. Additionally, Aerodactyl doesn’t have to function with a Hone Claws boost; in any situation, it can simply fire off its already-strong attacks to revenge kill or clean up anything in its way. </p>

<p>Taking one Hone Claws boost, Life Orb, and STAB in account, Stone Edge becomes an even more mighty and accurate attack than it already is, allowing it to 2HKO .(remove) To put this in perspective, even physically defensive Skarmory has a chance to be 2HKOed (46.7% - 55.1%), which is guaranteed with Stealth Rock damage. Aqua Tail is the preferred secondary attacking option, which, after the boost, 2HKOes all variants of Gliscor and Hippowdon and OHKOes any defensive Tyranitar with prior damage. Additionally, both Aqua Tail and Stone Edge already provide decent coverage with each other, so Roost is an option in the last slot to heal off any damage previously taken. However, Fire Fang might be appealing for invaluable coverage against Ferrothorn (and to an extent, Scizor), who walls the aforementioned attack combination.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
(remove space)

<p>Other attacking options include Earthquake and Ice Fang over Aqua Tail and Fire Fang; by using these moves, Aerodactyl gains coverage against Gastrodon and can hit Gliscor, Tyranitar, and Jirachi much harder. While doing so would mean losing Aerodactyl’s only defense against opposing Ferrothorn and Scizor, you can simply employ teammates to take care of these two and, in return, gain arguably better coverage thanks to the EdgeQuake combo.</p>

<p>Seeing as Aerodactyl has crippling weaknesses to common poiority moves in Bullet Punch, Ice Shard, and Aqua Jet, it is obviously necessary to eliminate users of these moves before switching Aerodactyl in freely. Magnezone is your best bet against Scizor, who threatens with STAB Bullet Punch, amongst other dangerous Steel-types that Aerodactyl has trouble with. You may also consider Jellicent or Tyranitar for walling common checks counters or eliminating them with mixed sets, respectively. Stealth Rock damage will also be a major obstacle for Aerodactyl; an instant solution to this would either be a Rapid Spin user or a Pokemon with the ability Magic Bounce, such as Donphan and Espeon, respectively. For example, Donphan can be counted on to provide Stealth Rock support while spinning away hazards on your side of the field, while Espeon can simply provide dual screen support for easier setup.</p>
(remove all but one space)


[SET]
name: Offensive
move 1: Taunt
move 2: Stone Edge
move 3: Earthquake / Aqua Tail
move 4: Roost
item: Life Orb
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>This set forgoes the use of Hone Claws for the valuable utility that Taunt provides, enabling Aerodactyl to bypass defensive and stall-oriented Pokémon more easily, while still being a threat towards offensive teams. Stone Edge is, once again, Aerodactyl’s main attack, and when paired with Earthquake, both provide nearly-unresisted dual coverage (with the exception of certain threats such as Bronzong). Aqua Tail, however, can replace Earthquake for the purpose of hitting Ground-type threats harder. Finally, Roost is used in the last slot to alleviate any recoil and damage Aerodactyl might have sustained, in addition to nullifying the weaknesses given by its Flying typing.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>For other attacking options, you may consider using elemental fangs to achieve coverage against certain threats; however, on a set more starved for power outside of Life Orb, Roost would prove more necessary in most situations. The same usually applies for other certain attacks, such as Fire Blast, as well. Crunch is worthy of mention simply for giving Aerodactyl coverage against Psychic- and Ghost-type threats, such as Reuniclus and Jellicent, that would normally give it a hard time.</p>

<p>This set is best used in permanent sandstorm, preferably provided by a mixed Tyranitar, where Aerodactyl’s Special Defense is boosted to a decent level of usability with Roost. This also makes it one of the best Heatran and Volcarona switch-ins in the game, if your team happens to have trouble with it. As usual, Aerodactyl has trouble hitting certain Steel-types hard enough, so Magnezone is, once again, a good teammate due to its ability to trap and defeat these threats. Keep in mind that this kind of Aerodactyl requires alternative offensive support to bypass some bulky threats as well, since its PP and coverage is somewhat limited to two moves.</p>



[SET]
name: Steath rock
move 1: Taunt
move 2: Stone Edge
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Stealth Rock
item: Focus Sash
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>This set has been Aerodactyl’s standard fare in the previous generation, but thanks to the ceaseless threat of Team Preview, it can no longer maintain its image as the “ideal” Stealth Rock lead. The set’s composition, however, remains the same; Aerodactyl should aim to set up Stealth Rock early-game while preventing the opposing team from laying its own using a fast Taunt. Whether Aerodactyl is played first-turn or later depends on the opposing team and whatever strategy the opponent uses according to Team Preview.</p>

<p>You may be wondering why one would use this set over Deoxys-S, who sports an arguably better bulk and Speed (to abuse Taunt). While Deoxys-S is obviously dominant in the speed department, the main thing to consider is Aerodactyl's offensive presence in comparison to Deoxys-S’s own; Deoxys-S is most commonly seen using only one move for specific targets, after which it can’t threaten anything else. Aerodactyl, however, is required to use the EdgeQuake combo, which provides definitely better coverage against threats that Deoxys-S can’t hurt, such as Ninetales, Jirachi, Thundurus, and Volcarona. Additionally, Aerodactyl’s Speed is satisfactory enough to let it outspeed and revenge kill Adamant +1 Gyarados and Dragonite so it’s useful outside of the lead position.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>Since Aerodactyl is primarily required to survive attacks and set up, no item is better on this set other than Focus Sash, which also allows Aerodactyl a second chance to fulfill its duties if it mispredicts with Taunt. Aerodactyl also won’t gain anything better outside of maximally investing in its Attack and speed to threaten its foes. For other attacks, Rock Slide is an option over Stone Edge if the high flinch chance it provides is relevant to you. Rock Slide’s utility, however, has decreased due to the lack of opposing Focus Sash users to flinch.</p>

<p>This version of Aerodactyl is best used with sweepers that cannot KO certain opponents without Stealth Rock damage. A good example of this is Scrafty, who gains the ability to 2HKO most physical walls, especially Skarmory and Hippowdon, after an attack boost by either Bulk Up or Dragon Dance. In fact, most setup sweepers like Scrafty generally enjoy having Stealth Rock on their side to wear down certain opponents to KO range. Additionally, teams that utilize entry hazards usually enjoy having Ghost-type teammates to block any opposing Rapid Spin users. In this case, Gengar is most notable for having a reliable list of resistances and attacking options against a variety of foes, including Espeon (who also threatens with Magic Bounce).</p>

<p>As a note, because Aerodactyl serves as a suicide lead and attacker it doesn’t require specific defensive synergy, so it will do on any balanced or offensive teams that require its capabilities. This set also doesn’t have specific counters, as opposing dedicated leads (except some variants of Deoxys-S) are basically irrelavent in the current metagame.</p>
(remove all but one space)



[Other Options]
<p>Aerodactyl can utilize Substitute, which, along with Roost and Pressure, allows it to stall out many threats in permanent sandstorm. This, however, may be more easily performed by a dedicated support or defensive Pokémon, but Aerodactyl’s high Attack and Speed differentiate it from them in this case. Additionally, you may consider using Choice Band to further boost Aerodactyl’s offense, although, considering Aerodactyl’s limited coverage and vulnerability to bulky threats and revenge killers, it’s an inferior option.</p>


[Checks and Counters]

<p>Perhaps Aerodactyl’s most exploitable weakness is its inability to hit extremely hard with its limited coverage, so physically-bulky threats should have no problem taking its attacks (and sometimes even super effective ones) and retaliate with the appropriate move. Of course, the opponent can go the offensive route by bypassing Aerodactyl’s speed using a revenge killer of some sort, which includes Choice Scarf users and certain priority users. This applies mainly to Scizor and Conkeldurr, both of whom can sponge any common attack Aerodactyl throws at them and react with Bullet Punch or Mach Punch, respectively. Any kind of status is also detrimental to Aerodactyl, whether its Speed is quartered with paralysis, offense lowered with burn, or health deteriorated with Toxic poison.</p>


This is a WIP
done, and done.

edit: think i got everything and i believe speed is quartered when paralyzed unless mechanics changed this gen.
 

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
Just a quick suggestion: change all of your curly apostrophes / quotations to straight ones (' and ")
 

AccidentalGreed

Sweet and bitter as chocolate.
is a Forum Moderator Alumnusis a Top Contributor Alumnus
The analysis still has a number of curly apostrophes, so fix those.

Also, on the Stealth Rock set, reorder the set in order of importance: Stealth Rock, Taunt, Stone Edge, and Earthquake.
 
nitpicked and rephrased repeated 'something, however, something else' and 'additionally,' hope you don't mind, and corrected a few curly apostrophes that seem to have slipped through the cracks. also, note that Pokemon doesn't have the accent on the e.

remove add comments

<p>The generation shift has generally on the whole been somewhat cruel to Aerodactyl. The introduction of Team Preview, as well as the unbanning of Deoxys-S, has eliminated Aerodactyl's niche as a foolproof suicide lead, and as more checks and counters to add were added to its original ones, most players tend to pick out other choices have looked elsewhere for a fast attacker or an entry hazard user. In addition to this, a Stealth Rock weakness and general frailty doesn 't do Aerodactyl any favors in the metagame either.</p>

<p>It would be a mistake, however, to discount write off Aerodactyl as a mere negligible threat a joke. In a metagame where most attackers top the 100 Speed baseline attain over base 100 Speed, Aerodactyl's base 130 Speed still towers above most others, enabling it to vanquish annihilate the likes of Terrakion and Thundurus before they can do more cause much trouble. Additionally, a decent Attack stat and access to Taunt still allow Aerodactyl to provide reliable offensive Stealth Rock support. While the prehistoric pterosaur won 't be touching certain threats, you 'll find that by using it playing to its strengths, Aerodactyl can be an awesome source of offense and utility in your hands.</p>

[SET]
name: Hone Claws
move 1: Hone Claws
move 2: Stone Edge
move 3: Aqua Tail
move 4: Fire Fang / Roost
item: Life Orb
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>Aerodactyl is one of the a select few sweepers that can make efficient effective use of Hone Claws, and with its ability to force out many threats thanks to the threat of its blistering speed, it's not difficult to pull off just one boost. Additionally, Aerodactyl doesn't have to function with a Hone Claws boost; in any situation, it can simply fire off its already-strong attacks to revenge kill or clean up anything in its way. </p>

<p>Taking into account one Hone Claws boost, Life Orb, and STAB in account, Stone Edge becomes an even more mighty and accurate attack than it already is. which allows it enables Aerodactyl to 2HKO even physically defensive Skarmory with after Stealth Rock damage. Aqua Tail is the preferred secondary attacking option, which as, after the a boost, it 2HKOes all variants of Gliscor and Hippowdon and OHKOes any[/U] defensive Tyranitar with prior damage. Additionally, both Aqua Tail and Stone Edge already provide decent coverage with each other, so Roost is an option in the last slot to heal off any damage previously taken. However, Fire Fang might be appealing is preferred for invaluable coverage against Ferrothorn (and to an extent, Scizor), who walls the aforementioned attack combination.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>Other attacking options include Earthquake and Ice Fang over Aqua Tail and Fire Fang; by using these moves, Aerodactyl gains neutral coverage against Gastrodon and can hit Gliscor, Tyranitar, and Jirachi much harder. While doing so would mean losing Aerodactyl 's only defense against opposing Ferrothorn and Scizor, you can simply employ teammates to take care of these two and, in return, gain arguably better coverage thanks to the EdgeQuake combo.</p>

<p>Seeing as Aerodactyl has crippling weaknesses to common priority moves in, specifically Bullet Punch, Ice Shard, and Aqua Jet, it is obviously necessary to eliminate users of these moves before switching Aerodactyl in freely. Magnezone is your best bet against Scizor, who threatens with its powerful STAB Bullet Punch, amongst and also helps to remove other dangerous defensive? i take it you mean Skarm and Bronzong and Ferro etc Steel-types that Aerodactyl has trouble with. You may also consider Jellicent or Tyranitar for walling Aerodactyl's common checks and counters or eliminating them with mixed sets, respectively it would help if you gave some examples X:. Stealth Rock damage will also be a major obstacle for Aerodactyl; an instant solution to this would either be a Rapid Spin user or a Pokemon with the ability Magic Bounce; Such as good Pokemon to fill these roles include Donphan and Espeon respectively.

[SET]
name: Offensive
move 1: Taunt
move 2: Stone Edge
move 3: Earthquake / Aqua Tail
move 4: Roost
item: Life Orb
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>This set forgoes the use of Hone Claws for the valuable utility that Taunt provides, enabling Aerodactyl to bypass defensive and stall-oriented Pokemon more easily, while still being posing a threat towards offensive teams. Stone Edge is, once again, Aerodactyl's main attack, and when paired with Earthquake, both provides nearly-unresisted dual type coverage (with the exception of certain threats such as Bronzong). Aqua Tail, however, can replace Earthquake for the purpose of hitting Ground-type threats harder. Finally, Roost is used in the last slot to alleviate any Life Orb recoil and any damage Aerodactyl might may have sustained, in addition to nullifying and also nullifies for a turn the weaknesses given by of its Flying secondary typing.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>For other attacking options, you may consider using elemental fangs to achieve coverage against certain threats; however, on a set more generally starved for power outside of Life Orb, Roost would prove is more necessary in most situations. The same usually applies for other certain other attacks, such as Fire Blast, as well. Crunch is worthy of a mention simply for giving Aerodactyl coverage against Psychic- and Ghost-type threats, such as Reuniclus and Jellicent, that would normally give it a hard time, namely Reuniclus and Jellicent.</p>

<p>This set is best used in permanent sandstorm, preferably provided by a mixed Tyranitar, where Aerodactyl's Special Defense is boosted to a decent level of usability with; Roost then gives it a surprising amount of durability. This also makes it one of the best Heatran and Volcarona switch-ins in the game, if your team happens to have trouble with it. As usual, Aerodactyl has trouble hitting certain Steel-types hard enough, so Magnezone is, once again, a good teammate due to its ability to trap and defeat these threats. Keep in mind that this kind variant of Aerodactyl requires alternative even more offensive support than usual to bypass some bulky threats as well, since its PP and coverage is somewhat limited to two moves.</p>

[SET]
name: Stealth Rock !!!!!
move 1: Taunt
move 2: Stone Edge
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Stealth Rock
item: Focus Sash
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>This set was Aerodactyl's standard set in DPP, but due to the advent of Team Preview, it can no longer maintain its image niche as the "ideal" premiere Stealth Rock lead. The set 's composition, however, nonetheless remains the same: Aerodactyl should aim to set up Stealth Rock early-game while employing a fast Taunt to preventing the opposing team from laying its own using a fast Taunt doing the same. Whether You can choose to lead with Aerodactyl is played first-turn or send it in later depending on the opposing team and whatever strategy the opponent uses according to your knowledge of the opposing team from Team Preview.</p>

<p>You may be wondering why one would use this set over Deoxys-S, who sports an arguably both better bulk and Speed to abuse Taunt. While Deoxys-S is obviously dominant superior in the speed department these aspects, the main thing to consider is Aerodactyl's offensive presence in comparison to Deoxys-S's own Aerodactyl has the greater offensive presence; Deoxys-S is most commonly seen using runs only one move for specific targets, after which it can 't threaten anything else. Aerodactyl, however on the other hand, is required to use has room for and access to the EdgeQuake combo, which provides better coverage against threats that Deoxys-S can 't hurt, such as Ninetales, Jirachi, Thundurus, and Volcarona. Additionally, Aerodactyl's Speed is satisfactory enough to let it is fast enough to outspeed and revenge kill even Adamant +1 Gyarados and Dragonite, so it’s can be useful outside of the lead position.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>Since Aerodactyl's job is just is primarily required to survive attacks and long enough to set up, no item is better on this set other than Focus Sash: this which also allows Aerodactyl a second chance to fulfill its duties if it mispredicts with Taunt. Aerodactyl's paper-thin defenses also won't gain anything better outside of mean it's better off fully investing in its Attack and Speed to threaten its foes. As for other attacks, Rock Slide is an option over Stone Edge if the high flinch chance it provides is relevant to you since Aerodactyl's high Speed lets it make use of the flinch chance. Rock Slide 's utility, however, has decreased due to the lack of opposing Focus Sash users to flinch.</p>

<p>This version of Aerodactyl is best used with sweepers that cannot KO certain opponents without Stealth Rock damage. A good example of this is Scrafty, who gains the ability to 2HKO most physical walls, especially Skarmory and Hippowdon, after an Attack boost by from either Bulk Up or Dragon Dance. In fact, most setup sweepers like Scrafty generally enjoy having Stealth Rock on their side to wear down certain opponents to KO range. Additionally, teams that utilize entry hazards usually enjoy having Ghost-type teammates to block any opposing Rapid Spin users: In this case, Gengar is most especially notable for having a reliable list of resistances and attacking options against a variety of foes, including Espeon, who also threatens to neuter Aerodactyl with Magic Bounce.</p>

<p>As a note, because Aerodactyl serves first and foremost as a suicide lead and attacker, it doesn't require specific defensive synergy support, so it will do fits nicely on any balanced or offensive teams that requires its capabilities. This set also doesn 't really have specific counters, as opposing dedicated leads (no paragraph break) (except some variants of Deoxys-S) are basically irrelevant in the current metagame.</p>

[Other Options]

<p>Aerodactyl can utilize Substitute, which, along with Roost and Pressure, allows it Aerodactyl to stall out many threats in permanent sandstorm. This, however, While this may be more easily performed by a dedicated support or defensive Pokemon, but Aerodactyl's high Attack and Speed differentiate it from them in this case role. Additionally, You may also consider using Choice Band to further boost Aerodactyl 's offense, although, considering but given Aerodactyl's limited coverage and vulnerability to Stealth Rock, bulky threats, and revenge killers, it 's an inferior option.</p>

[Checks and Counters]

<p>Perhaps Aerodactyl's most exploitable weakness is its inability to hit extremely especially hard with its limited coverage previously you said edgequake was good, plus you don't really 'hit' with 'coverage', so physically bulky threats should have no problem taking its attacks (and sometimes even super effective ones) and retaliate with the appropriate move. Of course, the an offensively oriented opponent can go the offensive route by bypassing overcome even Aerodactyl's high Speed using a revenge killer of some sort, such as users of and revenge it with Choice Scarf users and most priority moves. This applies mainly to Scizor and Conkeldurr: both of whom can sponge any common attack from Aerodactyl throws at them and react retaliate with Bullet Punch or Mach Punch, respectively. Any kind of status is also detrimental to Aerodactyl: whether its Speed is quartered with paralysis, offense lowered with burn, or health drained with Poison burn lowers its offenses; poison reduces its longevity; and paralysis nullifies its best asset, its Speed.</p>
 

Molk

Godlike Usmash
is a Top Tutor Alumnusis a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Team Rater Alumnusis a Senior Staff Member Alumnusis a Community Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Discord Contributor Alumnusis a Top Tiering Contributor Alumnusis a Top Contributor Alumnus
I'd like someone to point out all the remaining curly apostrophe's so i can fix them.
 

AccidentalGreed

Sweet and bitter as chocolate.
is a Forum Moderator Alumnusis a Top Contributor Alumnus
To find all the curly apostrophes, use the Control + F function in your browser and C+P this in the box: ’. Pasting that will cause the Find function to spot out all the curly apostrophes you have left out, so go. You have to fix the Overview, the Hone Claws set, the Stealth Rock set, and the Other Options.
 
Blue = Add
Red = Delete
Bold = Comments

[Overview]

<p>The generation shift has generally been somewhat cruel to Aerodactyl. The introduction of Team Preview eliminates Aerodactyl's niche as a foolproof lead, and more checks and counters to add to its original ones, most players tend to pick out other choices for a fast attacker or an entry hazard user. In addition to this, a Stealth Rock weakness and general frailty doesn't don't do Aerodactyl any favors in the metagame either.</p>

<p>It would be a mistake, however, to discount Aerodactyl as a mere negligible threat. In a metagame where most attackers top the 100 Speed baseline, Aerodactyl's base 130 Speed still towers above most others, enabling it to vanquish the likes of Terrakion and Thundurus before they can do more trouble. Additionally, a decent Attack stat and access to Taunt still allow Aerodactyl to provide offensive Stealth Rock support. While the prehistoric pterosaur wont won't be touching certain threats, you'll find that by using it to its strengths, Aerodactyl can be an awesome source of offense and utility in your hands.</p>

[SET]
name: Hone Claws
move 1: Hone Claws
move 2: Stone Edge
move 3: Aqua Tail
move 4: Fire Fang / Roost
item: Life Orb
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>Aerodactyl is one of the select few sweepers that can make efficient use of Hone Claws, and with its ability to force out many threats thanks to the threat of its blistering speed, Speed, it's not difficult to pull off just one boost. Additionally, Aerodactyl doesn't have to function with a Hone Claws boost; in any situation, it can simply fire off its already-strong attacks to revenge kill or clean up anything in its way.(no space)</p>

<p>Taking one Hone Claws boost, Life Orb, and STAB in into account, Stone Edge becomes an even more mighty mightier and more accurate attack than it already is. is, which allows it Aerodactyl to 2HKO even physically defensive Skarmory with after Stealth Rock damage. Aqua Tail is the preferred secondary attacking option, which, after the boost, 2HKOes all variants of Gliscor and Hippowdon and OHKOes any defensive Tyranitar with prior damage. Additionally, both Aqua Tail and Stone Edge already provide decent coverage with each other, so Roost is an option in the last slot to heal off any damage previously taken. However, Fire Fang might be appealing for invaluable coverage against Ferrothorn (and to an extent, Scizor), who walls the aforementioned attack combination.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>Other attacking options include Earthquake and Ice Fang over Aqua Tail and Fire Fang; by using these moves, Aerodactyl gains coverage against Gastrodon and can hit Gliscor, Tyranitar, and Jirachi much harder. While doing so would mean losing Aerodactyl's only defense against opposing way to deal with Ferrothorn and Scizor, you can simply employ teammates to take care of these two and, in return, gain arguably better coverage thanks to the EdgeQuake combo.</p>

<p>Seeing as Aerodactyl has crippling weaknesses to common poiority priority moves in Bullet Punch, Ice Shard, and Aqua Jet, it is obviously necessary to eliminate users of these moves before switching Aerodactyl in freely. Magnezone is your best bet against Scizor, who threatens with STAB Bullet Punch, amongst other dangerous Steel-types that Aerodactyl has trouble with. You may also consider Jellicent or Tyranitar for walling to wall common checks or / counters or eliminating to eliminate them with mixed sets, respectively. Stealth Rock damage will also be a major obstacle for Aerodactyl; an instant solution to this would either be a Rapid Spin user or a Pokemon with the ability Magic Bounce. Such ,such as Donphan and Espeon, (comma) respectively.</p>

[SET]
name: Offensive
move 1: Taunt
move 2: Stone Edge
move 3: Earthquake / Aqua Tail
move 4: Roost
item: Life Orb
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>This set forgoes the use of Hone Claws for the valuable invaluable utility that Taunt provides, enabling Aerodactyl to bypass defensive and stall-oriented Pokémon Pokemon more easily, while still being a threat towards offensive teams. Stone Edge is, once again, Aerodactyl's main attack, and when paired with Earthquake, both provide provides nearly-unresisted dual coverage (with the exception of certain threats such as Bronzong). Aqua Tail, however, can replace Earthquake for the purpose of hitting Ground-type threats harder. Finally, Roost is used in the last slot to alleviate any recoil and (recoil? none of the attacks cause recoil damage and aero has rock head) damage Aerodactyl might have sustained, in addition to nullifying the weaknesses given by its Flying typing.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>For other attacking options, you may consider using elemental fangs to achieve coverage against certain threats; however, on a set more starved for power outside of Life Orb, Roost would prove more necessary in most situations. The same usually applies for other certain attacks, such as Fire Blast, as well. Crunch is worthy of mention simply for giving Aerodactyl coverage against Psychic- and Ghost-type threats, such as Reuniclus and Jellicent, that would normally give it a hard time.</p>

<p>This set is best used in permanent sandstorm, preferably provided by a mixed Tyranitar, where Aerodactyl's Special Defense is boosted to a decent level of usability with Roost. This also makes it one of the best Heatran and Volcarona switch-ins in the game, if your team happens to have trouble with it them. As usual, Aerodactyl has trouble hitting certain Steel-types hard enough, so Magnezone is, once again, a good teammate due to its ability to trap and defeat these threats. Keep in mind that this kind of Aerodactyl requires alternative offensive support to bypass some bulky threats as well, since its PP and coverage is somewhat are limited to two moves.</p>

[SET]
name: Steath rock Rock
move 1: Taunt
move 2: Stone Edge
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Stealth Rock
item: Focus Sash
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>This set was Aerodactyl's standard set in D/P, DPP, but due to the advent of Team Preview, it can no longer maintain its image as the "ideal" Stealth Rock lead. The sets set's composition, however, remains the same; Aerodactyl should aim to set up Stealth Rock early-game while preventing the opposing team from laying its own using a fast Taunt. Whether Aerodactyl is played first-turn or later depends on the opposing team and whatever strategy the opponent uses according to Team Preview.</p>

<p>You may be wondering why one would use this set over Deoxys-S, who sports an arguably better bulk and Speed to abuse Taunt. While Deoxys-S is obviously dominant in the speed Speed department, the main thing to consider is Aerodactyl's offensive presence in comparison to Deoxys-S's own; Deoxys-S is most commonly seen using only one move for specific targets, after which it cant can't threaten anything else. Aerodactyl, however, is required to use the EdgeQuake combo, which provides better coverage against threats that Deoxys-S cant can't hurt, such as Ninetales, Jirachi, Thundurus, and Volcarona. Additionally, Aerodactyl's Speed is satisfactory enough to let it outspeed and revenge kill Adamant +1 Gyarados and Dragonite so its it's useful outside of the lead position.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>Since Aerodactyl is primarily required to survive attacks and set up, no item is better on this set other than the best item is Focus Sash, which also allows Aerodactyl a second chance to fulfill its duties if it mispredicts with Taunt. Aerodactyl also won't gain anything better outside of fully investing in its Attack and speed Speed to threaten its foes. For other attacks, Rock Slide is an option over Stone Edge if the high flinch chance it provides is relevant to you. Rock Slides utility, however, has decreased due to the lack of opposing Focus Sash users to flinch. (when was Rock Slide useful? I always remember standard lead Aero using SE in DPP)</p>

<p>This version of Aerodactyl is best used with sweepers that cannot KO certain opponents without Stealth Rock damage. This set is a great way to support your team's sweepers as it can grant them some key KOs. A good example of this is Scrafty, who gains the ability to 2HKO most physical walls, especially Skarmory and Hippowdon, after an attack Attack boost by either Bulk Up or Dragon Dance (or Moxie, but the way it gets the boost isn't relevant to this analysis). In fact, most setup set-up sweepers like Scrafty generally enjoy having Stealth Rock on their side to wear down certain opponents to KO range. Additionally, teams that utilize entry hazards usually enjoy having Ghost-type teammates to block any opposing Rapid Spin users. In this case, Gengar is most notable for having a reliable list of resistances and attacking options against a variety of foes, including Espeon who also threatens with Magic Bounce.</p>

<p>As a note, because Aerodactyl serves as a suicide lead and attacker it doesn't require specific defensive synergy, so it will do on any balanced or offensive teams that require its capabilities. Since this set's main goal is to support its team, it doesn't require any specific teammates to achieve it. This set also It doesn't have specific counters either, as opposing dedicated leads (only one space) (except some variants of Deoxys-S) are basically irrelavent irrelevant in the current metagame.</p>

[Other Options]

<p>Aerodactyl can utilize Substitute, which, along with Roost and Pressure, allows it to stall out many threats in permanent sandstorm. This, however, may be more easily performed by a dedicated support or defensive Pokémon, Pokemon, but Aerodactyl's high Attack and Speed differentiate it from them in this case. Additionally, you may consider using Choice Band to further boost Aerodactyl's offense, although, considering Aerodactyl's limited coverage and vulnerability to bulky threats and revenge killers, it's an inferior option.</p>
(only one line)
[Checks and Counters]

<p>Perhaps Aerodactyl's most exploitable weakness is its inability to hit extremely hard with its limited coverage, so physically bulky threats should have no problem taking its attacks (and sometimes even super effective ones) and retaliate with the appropriate move. Of course, the opponent can go the offensive route by bypassing Aerodactyl's speed using a revenge killer of some sort, such as users of Choice Scarf and most priority moves. This applies mainly to Scizor and Conkeldurr, both of whom can sponge any common attack Aerodactyl throws at them and react with Bullet Punch or Mach Punch, respectively. Any kind of status is also detrimental to Aerodactyl, whether its Speed is quartered with paralysis, offense lowered with burn, or health drained with Poison poison.</p>
Some things to consider:

  • it's Pokemon, not Pokémon
  • we don't use the curly apostrophe
  • you made some errors when articulating pronouns with verbs (such as writing "its X and Y is") - when you list two things, even if they are related to only one subject, you should use the plural
 
This is now done! thanks for your help everyone!
This isn't done yet. Please apply the changes I suggested because, even though I believe the OP should make sure he agrees with the check, the are some things (such as begining a sentence with an uncapitalized word) that are obviously wrong.

Since this is the second time you post saying you did something and I realize you didn't (you didn't change all the curly apostrophes like you said even aftrer AG told you how to do it), I'm removing my stamp and approval until you fix it.

PM me after you fix everything.
 
[SET COMMENTS]

<p>Aerodactyl is one of the select few sweepers that can make efficient use of Hone Claws, and with its ability to force out many threats thanks to the threat of its blistering Speed, it's not difficult to pull off one boost. Additionally, Aerodactyl doesn't have to function with a Hone Claws boost; in any situation, it can simply fire off its already-strong attacks to revenge kill or clean up anything in its way.(no space)</p>
(one line between two paras)
<p>Taking one Hone Claws boost, Life Orb, and STAB in account, Stone Edge becomes an even mightier and accurate attack than it already is, which allows Aerodactyl to 2HKO even physically defensive Skarmory after Stealth Rock damage. Aqua Tail is the preferred secondary attacking option, which, after the boost, 2HKOes all variants of Gliscor and Hippowdon and OHKOes any defensive Tyranitar with prior damage. Additionally, both Aqua Tail and Stone Edge already provide decent coverage with each other, so Roost is an option in the last slot to heal off any damage previously taken. However, Fire Fang might be appealing for invaluable coverage against Ferrothorn (and to an extent, Scizor), who walls the aforementioned attack combination.</p>


[SET]
name: Offensive
move 1: Taunt
move 2: Stone Edge
move 3: Earthquake / Aqua Tail
move 4: Roost
item: Life Orb
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>This set forgoes the use of Hone Claws for the invaluable utility that Taunt provides, enabling Aerodactyl to bypass defensive and stall-oriented Pokemon more easily, while still being a threat towards offensive teams. Stone Edge is, once again, Aerodactyl's main attack, and when paired with Earthquake, provides nearly-unresisted dual coverage (with the exception of certain threats such as Bronzong). Aqua Tail, however, can replace Earthquake for the purpose of hitting Ground-type threats harder. Finally, Roost is used in the last slot to alleviate any life orb recoil and damage Aerodactyl might have sustained, in addition to nullifying the weaknesses given by its Flying typing.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>For other attacking options, you may consider using elemental fangs to achieve coverage against certain threats; however, on a set more starved for power outside of Life Orb, Roost would prove more necessary in most situations. The same usually applies for other certain attacks, such as Fire Blast. Crunch is worthy of mention simply for giving Aerodactyl coverage against Psychic- and Ghost-type threats, such as Reuniclus and Jellicent, that would normally give it a hard time.</p>

<p>This set is best used in permanent sandstorm, preferably provided by a mixed Tyranitar, where Aerodactyl's Special Defense is boosted to a decent level of usability with Roost. This also makes it one of the best Heatran and Volcarona switch-ins in the game, if your team happens to have trouble with them. As usual, Aerodactyl has trouble hitting certain Steel-types hard enough, so Magnezone is, once again, a good teammate due to its ability to trap and defeat these threats. Keep in mind that this kind of Aerodactyl requires alternative offensive support to bypass some bulky threats as well, since its PP and coverage are limited to two moves.</p>

[SET]
name: Steath Rock
move 1: Taunt
move 2: Stone Edge
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Stealth Rock
item: Focus Sash
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>This set was Aerodactyl's standard set in DPP, but due to the advent of Team Preview, it can no longer maintain its image as the "ideal" Stealth Rock lead. The set's composition, however, remains the same; Aerodactyl should aim to set up Stealth Rock early-game while preventing the opposing team from laying its own using a fast Taunt. Whether Aerodactyl is played first-turn or later depends on the opposing team and whatever strategy the opponent uses according to Team Preview.</p>

<p>You may be wondering why one would use this set over Deoxys-S, who sports an arguably better bulk and Speed to abuse Taunt. While Deoxys-S is obviously dominant in the Speed department, the main thing to consider is Aerodactyl's offensive presence in comparison to Deoxys-S's; Deoxys-S is most commonly seen using only one move for specific targets, after which it can't threaten anything else. Aerodactyl, however, is required to use the EdgeQuake combo, which provides better coverage against threats that Deoxys-S can’t hurt, such as Ninetales, Jirachi, Thundurus, and Volcarona. Additionally, Aerodactyl's Speed is satisfactory enough to let it outspeed and revenge kill Adamant +1 Gyarados and Dragonite so it's useful outside of the lead position.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>Since Aerodactyl is primarily required to survive attacks and set up, the best item is Focus Sash, which also allows Aerodactyl a second chance to fulfill its duties if it mispredicts with Taunt. Aerodactyl also won't gain anything better outside of fully investing in its Attack and speed to threaten its foes.(no space)</p>

<p>This set is a great way to support your teams sweepers and help them score some key KOs. A good example of this is Scrafty, who gains the ability to 2HKO most physical walls, especially Skarmory and Hippowdon, after an Attack boost. In fact, most set-up sweepers like Scrafty generally enjoy having Stealth Rock on their side to wear down certain opponents to KO range. Additionally, teams that utilize entry hazards usually enjoy having Ghost-type teammates to block any opposing Rapid Spin users. In this case, Gengar is most notable for having a reliable list of resistances and attacking options against a variety of foes, including Espeon who also threatens with Magic Bounce.</p>

<p>Since this sets main goal is to support its team it doesn't require any specific team options to achieve it, so it will do on any balanced or offensive teams that require its capabilities. it doesn't have specific counters either, as opposing dedicated leads (only one space!)(except some variants of Deoxys-S) are basically irrelevent in the current metagame.</p>

[Other Options]

<p>Aerodactyl can utilize Substitute, which, along with Roost and Pressure, allows it to stall out many threats in permanent sandstorm. This, however, may be more easily performed by a dedicated support or defensive Pokemon, but Aerodactyl's high Attack and Speed differentiate it from them in this case. Additionally, you may consider using Choice Band to further boost Aerodactyl's offense, although, considering Aerodactyl's limited coverage and vulnerability to bulky threats and revenge killers, it's an inferior option.</p>


[Checks and Counters]

<p>Perhaps Aerodactyl's most exploitable weakness is its inability to hit extremely hard with its limited coverage, so physically bulky threats should have no problem taking its attacks (and sometimes even super effective ones) and retaliate with the appropriate move. Of course, the opponent can go the offensive route by bypassing Aerodactyl's speed using a revenge killer of some sort, such as users of Choice Scarf and most priority moves. This applies mainly to Scizor and Conkeldurr, both of whom can sponge any common attack Aerodactyl throws at them and react with Bullet Punch or Mach Punch, respectively. Any kind of status is also detrimental to Aerodactyl, whether its Speed is quartered with paralysis, offense lowered with burn, or health drained with poison.</p>
Approved, you're good to go.
 

Users Who Are Viewing This Thread (Users: 1, Guests: 0)

Top