Addition [AP] = Add Period | [AC] = Add Comma.
Removal [RP] = Remove Period | [RC] = Remove Comma.
[Commentary]
Tagging Snobalt to check me so this AM check can become official. I'm still learning. Remember this is an amateur check, and is not official until approved and checked by a GP member, such as my teacher Snobalt. I hope these changes help! Here goes nothing, I suppose.
A few notes here that would have made this check quicker, so in your next analysis this will be quicker:
Hope I was of some help, and good luck with your analysis!
Removal [RP] = Remove Period | [RC] = Remove Comma.
[Commentary]
Tagging Snobalt to check me so this AM check can become official. I'm still learning. Remember this is an amateur check, and is not official until approved and checked by a GP member, such as my teacher Snobalt. I hope these changes help! Here goes nothing, I suppose.
[OVERVIEW]
Mega Rayquaza is a dominant force in the current Anything Goes metagame, with it's amazing 180 offensive stats coupled with great Dragon/Flying offensive typing makes it one of the best wallbreakers in the tier. It's STAB moves combined with it's great coverage makes it difficult to find checks and counters that can reliably switchin to it's attacks. It also has great bulk for such an offensive pokemon Pokemon, as it's amazing defensive typing in conjunction with Delta Stream that cuts half it's its weaknesses and lets it cancel out removes opposing primal weather[Not sure how capitalization goes in terms of referring to primal weather, I'm going to assume this is correct. Snobalt correct me if I'm wrong. <3], means it can posses possess great defensive synergy on offensively orientated teams. Mega Rayquaza contains a diverse movepool with priority such as Extreme Speed and two setup moves in Dragon Dance and Swords Dance. It's Its amazing coverage lets it hit most of the metagame for at least neutral damage. It's Its lack of needing to hold a mega Mega stone also helps increase the diversity between it's its sets, meaning it can have more options compared to other mega pokemon Mega Pokemon. [Seems there are a lot of possessive mistakes here. To clarify, "its" is correct in use of showing possession. "it's" should be used as a contraction.]
However, although it has a high base speed Speed, it still does not let it outspeed key threats in Deoxys-Attack, Darkrai and Mewtwo, leaving it reliant on priority to take them out. This is an issue as Mega Rayquaza will often seem force forced to run Extreme Speed so that it cannot be revenge killed easily, especially before mega evolving Mega Evolving. It also being Being slower against Arceus also means that it can be taken out by a faster Extreme Speed [Had two instances of"also"]. Mega Rayquaza has a slight opportunity cost of taking up your team's teams mega slot Mega Slot as well. Overall, Mega Rayquaza's fantastic stats[,] coupled with it's amazing typing combined with it's , amazing typing, and advantageous ability makes is it one of the best wallbreakers in the tier, and can definitely be added to any team needing an offensive juggernaut, and should be prepared for in any serious Anything Goes team.
[SET]
name: Dragon Dance
move 1: Dragon Dance
move 2: Dragon Ascent
move 3: Earthquake / V-Create
move 4: Extreme Speed
item: Lum Berry
ability: Air Lock
nature: Adamant
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Dragon Dance has the opportunity to boost Mega Rayquaza's Attack and Speed by one stage, making it capable of sweeping many teams even after 1 boost. Dragon Ascent is it's its flying Flying-type STAB move of choice, as it let's it to can 2HKO most neutral targets after one attack Attack boost like Primal Groudon, Lugia[,] and Arceus. While Earthquake is for coverage to coverage for common Flying-type resists such as Klefki, Arceus-Rock and Arceus-Steel. V-Create is an alternative that could be replaced instead of Earthquake, as it allows Mega Rayquaza to hit steel types Steel-types such as Ferrothorn, Arceus-Steel[,] and Skarmory for significantly more damage, however it's its stats drops[,] in conjunction with Dragon Ascent[,] can wear Mega Rayquaza down rather quickly. Extreme Speed should be used for priority, being able to be faster than outspeed Arceus's Extreme Speed after one Dragon Dance boost. It also reliably hits targets while Mega Rayquaza does not have any speed boosts.
Set Details
========
Lum Berry is the most effective item on in this set, as it can allow Mega Rayquaza to sponge status for one turn, and retaliate back with a powerful attack. This helps it defeat Klefki and Mega Sableye more reliably. The Adamant nature is chosen as it increases Mega Rayquaza's raw power, and does not mind the incapability of running max speed Speed, due to Dragon Dance boosting it's its Speed stat already. However, Jolly can still be run used if you prefer Mega Rayquaza to out speed pokemon outspeed Pokemon such as Mega Diancie and Latios before any boosts. This depends on what your team requires Mega Rayquaza to accomplish. Finally, the EV's EVs are maxed out in Attack and Speed to have the highest chances chance of sweeping.
Usage Tips
========
Dragon Dance Mega Rayquaza is often preferred to be used late game, once the opposing team is weakened so that it can start setting up freely. Notable pokemon Pokemon that Dragon Dance Mega Rayquaza prefers to be weakened are Steel types Steel-types that are not hit supper super effectively by Ground type Ground-type attacks, and bulky Fairy types Fairy-types that can live a +1 Dragon Ascent. Also, make sure you do not try to setup on pokemon Pokemon that can potentially cripple Mega Rayquaza. Even if you are carrying a Lum Berry, pokemon Pokemon such as Klefki and bulky Arceus can either paralyze or burn it again respectively after Mega Rayquaza has used a turn to setup set up. Try not to bring Mega Rayquaza in on opposing attacks, even if they are neutral, due to Mega Rayquaza being threatened to be too weakened becoming too weak to take priority moves afterwards. Lastly, avoid using Dragon Ascent when it is unnecessary. Such as ,such as when Mega Rayquaza is facing a weakened Xerneas or Arceus Ground Ground Arceus, if it is capable of taking them out with a +1 Earthquake, it is recommended to use that instead of Dragon Ascent, as the defense Defense drops can leave Mega Rayquaza susceptible to priority moves afterwards.
Team Options
========
Due to Mega Rayquaza's immaculate offensive prowess and wallbreaking capabilities, it can easily fit onto any offensive team. Specially defensive Primal Groudon is an amazing partner for Dragon Dance Mega Rayquaza[,] as even Even if it is running Lum Berry, it still does not appreciate status, and utilizing Primal Groudon to sponge burns and paralysis can save your Lum Berry for things like Swagger Klefki, while it can set up Stealth Rocks. It also still deals with Fairies like Xerneas and Arceus-Fairy Fairy Arceus, which otherwise can force Mega Rayquaza to not setup prevent Mega Rayquaza from using set up moves. Klefki is another great partner for Mega Rayquaza, as it can absorb Fairy- and Dragon-type attacks while it can spread also spreading useful paralysis that can help Mega Rayquaza to sweep later on[.], and it It also is weak to Fire and Ground, in which Mega Rayquaza has no problem switching into. Mega Diancie is a huge threat for Mega Rayquaza, as it can outspeed and KO it on a switch-in without any boosts. Luckily, Calm Mind Arceus-Steel Steel Arceus is a great counter to Mega Diancie that pairs well with Mega Rayquaza, as it can also deal with Arceus-Fairy Fairy Arceus, Defensive Yveltal and Non-Focus Blast non-Focus Blast Xerneas. Hazard removal is also encouraged for this set, using when using pokemon Pokemon such as Arceus-Fairy Fairy Arceus and Latios/Latias are recommended, as Mega Rayquaza can weaken their checks and counters such as like Klekfi and Arceus-Steel Steel Arceus with Earthquake. Hazard setters are also recommended, as Mega Rayquaza can sometimes get crucial KO's KOs on opponents like Multiscale Lugia with hazards up like with Multiscale Lugia and be able to have a higher chance of OHKOing Arceus after one boost. Other physical wallbreakers like Arceus-Ground Ground Arceus and Arceus-Ghost Ghost Arceus can even be used to weaken Mega Rayquaza's checks, and can apply more offensive pressure to the opposing team. Steel Type pokemon such as Arceus-Steel Steel-type Pokemon like Steel Arceus and Ferrothorn are great partners for Mega Rayquaza that should be considered as well, as they have amazing defensive synergy with it and can set up hazards to strengthen Mega Rayquaza's sweeping potential.
[SET]
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Dragon Ascent
move 3: Earthquake / V-Create
move 4: Extreme Speed
item: Life Orb / Lum Berry
ability: Air Lock
nature: Jolly / Adamant
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Swords Dance boosts Mega Rayquaza's attack Attack to insane levels, letting it easily OHKO or 2HKO the entire metagame after one boost. Dragon Ascent is a great STAB move on Mega Rayquaza, as it allows it to hit pokemon Pokemon such as Xerneas, Ho-Oh[,] and Lugia for powerful neutral damage. Earthquake is nice coverage in conjunction with Dragon Ascent, letting Mega Rayquaza hit threats such as Primal Groudon, Arceus-Rock Rock Arceus[,] and Klefki super effectively. While V-Create can be used instead to hit pokemon Pokemon such as Ferrothorn and Skarmory for super effective damage, which Earthquake cannot. Although One must be warned that the stat drops from V-Create coupled with the stat drops from Dragon Ascent can weaken Mega Rayquaza quite quickly. Extreme Speed should be used for priority to hit faster threats that can threaten to revenge kill you.
Set Details
========
Life Orb is generally preferred to get key KO's KOs on pokemon who would otherwise be able to live a +2 boosted attack from Mega Rayquaza. Lum Berry is a popular alternative that allows you to be able to sponge a Thunder Wave or Swagger from Klefki or a Will-O-Wisp from Mega Sableye and Arceus-Fairy Fairy Arceus and retaliate back without recoil from Life Orb. The Jolly nature is usually used more often as it allows Mega Rayquaza to outspeed pokemon that can threaten it like Mega Diancie, Adamant Arceus, Modest Latios/Latias and Lugia. Adamant can also be used to get the almost guaranteed 2HKO with Dragon's Ascent Dragon Ascent against Multiscale Lugia, although you are open to be outspeeded outsped by the aforementioned pokemon Pokemon. The EV's EVs are maxed out on in Speed and Attack to have full potential on outspeeding the majority of the metagame and dealing as much damage as possible.
Usage Tips
========
Since Mega Rayquaza cannot boost it's speed its Speed with this set, it risks being revenge killed against more offensive teams. However, it performs great against Stall stall teams in which it has an easier time setting up against pokemon Pokemon that cannot inflict significant damage to it. It is generally preferred to sweep with Swords Dance Mega Rayquaza later on during the match, by letting teamates teammates take care of threats like Primal Groudon and Klefki who can hamper Mega Rayquaza's sweeping capabilities at full health. Mega Rayquaza should also not be switching in on powerful attacks, meaning it should only come in after a pokemon Pokemon has been KO'ed KOed on your team. It is advised to conserve it's its health until late game, as that is when it will be able to sweep more efficiently. Although, it mostly appreciates coming in on weakened pokemon Pokemon, so that it can revenge kill them with Extreme Speed which guarantees, guaranteeing a free mega evolution Mega Evolution. Mega Rayquaza should avoid setting up on defensive Arceus forms, as they can threaten to cripple Mega Rayquaza with Will-O-Wisp. However it can OHKO Arceus-Fairy Fairy Type with a +2 Adamant Dragon Ascent after Stealth Rocks, which is one of it's its best counters. It also appreciates being at near full health against offensive Arceus forms formes as well, due to Arceus not being able to revenge kill you even at +2 with Extreme Speed. Being able to bluff whether or not your Mega Rayquaza has V-Create or Earthquake can also come to your advantage, as you opponent will need to be weary upon which check it can bring in against either move.
Team Options
========
Physically defensive Primal Groudon is one of the best partners for Swords Dance Mega Rayquaza as it can deal with Fairy types Fairy-types like Xerneas, Klekfi and Arceus-Fairy Fairy Arceus which threaten to take out Mega Rayquaza. It additionally takes priority moves from faster revenge killers, in which Mega Rayquaza is quite prone to. It can also absorb Will-O-Wisp or Thunder Wave, which would otherwise cripple Mega Rayquaza[,] if it choses if you choose to run Life Orb. Hazard removal is not mandatory, but heavily encouraged as Mega Rayquaza tends to switch in and out quite often. Arceus-Water Water Arceus is a nice teammate to do this as it can take on Primal Groudon quite easily. Hazard setters are also very nice to have, to as they can grant Mega Rayquaza more OHKO's OHKOs and to break Lugia's Multiscale. Good examples being Primal Groudon and Deoxys-Speed. Wallbreakers like Nasty Plot Darkrai and Calm Mind Primal Kyogre are also nice to add to your team, to take care of bulky walls such as Arceus-Fairy Fairy Arceus and Lugia with Multscale Multiscale intact that threaten Mega Rayquaza. Pokemon that can be threatened by Steel types Steel-types such as Xerneas and Latios also work very well with Mega Rayquaza if chooses it runs V-Create, due to it being able to lure and break down Ferrothorn and Skarmory, which the aforementioned pokemon Xernes and Latios can greatly benefit from.
[SET]
name: Mixed Life Orb Attacker
move 1: Draco Meteor
move 2: Dragon Ascent
move 3: Earthquake / Surf / Fire Blast
move 4: Extreme Speed
item: Life Orb
ability: Air Lock
nature: Naive
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Draco Meteor is a devastatingly strong special Dragon Dragon-type move that can lure in and break physically defensive walls that are assuming that Mega Rayquaza is purely physical. Dragon Ascent is Mega Rayquaza's second STAB move that let's lets it hit Fairy types Fairy-types that Draco Meteor cannot. It also let's lets it hit special walls that have no issue taking any of Mega Rayquaza's special moves like such as Ho-Oh and Primal Kyogre. Earthquake is more commonly used as a coverage option, as it let's lets Mega Rayquaza hit Steel types Steel-types like Steel Arceus such as Arceus-Steel and Klefki[,] and Rock types Rock-types like such as Mega Diancie and Arceus-Rock Rock Arceus super effectively. Surf can also be utilized to OHKO Primal Groudon, which can otherwise be able to live any hit Mega Rayquaza has to offer if it his is invested in bulk and is at relatively high HP. Fire Blast is another alternative that can also hit physically bulky Steel types Steel-types that are not hit super effectively by Earthquake, such as Skarmory and Ferrothorn. Extreme Speed should be used to take out faster threats such as Darkrai and Arceus[,] that can stop Mega Rayquaza's wallbreaking capabilities in it's tracks.
Set Details
========
Life Orb is seen on this set, as it increases it's Mega Rayquaza overall power and it's wallbreaking capabilities to impressive heights. Naive is the nature of choice, as it does not hinder Mega Rayquaza's offensive stats and still let's lets it out speed pokemon outspeed Pokemon such as Mega Diancie and Latios. Dropping it's its SpDef Special Defense stat over it's Def Defense is optimal, as it allows Mega Rayquaza to not be guaranteed 2HKOed by Arceus's Extreme Speed. However, it does leave it in range to get 2HKO'ed 2HKOed by Primal Kyogre's and Mewtwo's Ice Beam. The EV's EVs are set in place in order for Mega Rayquaza to OHKO Primal Groudon with Surf and 2HKO Arceus with Draco Meteor, and still be able to muscle through most special walls with ease.
Usage Tips
========
This Mega Rayquaza set is optimized to be used early within the game, as it can break through the opposing team, due to it lacking any true checks and switchins because of it's expansive coverage because of its expansive coverage. However, it can be quite inferior compared to the other sets, as it cannot boost any of it's its stats which leaves it prone to faster revenge killers. It can also be easily taken down by two of the metagames most prominent threats in Darkrai and Klefki, as they can take advantage of Draco Meteor and Dragon Ascent stat drops and Substitute against it. This is why it is important to only use this set against pokemon Pokemon that cannot take advantage of it's its lowered stats and can start setting up against it, and should be used more during the end of the match, when it's its checks and counters are taken out.[.] [Not sure if this extra period is intentional here, but I removed it.] As mentioned previously, this set is not designed to take hits from even neutral attacks. So In light of this, it is advised to safety bring in Rayquaza in order for it to have a longer sustainability[,] by sacking a teammate or bringing it in on a weakened pokemon Pokemon that can be taken out by Extreme Speed to ensure the safe mega evolution Mega Evolution. Being capable able to bluff that this Mega Rayquaza set is not strictly physical is also vital and sometimes game changing throughout the match. As your opponent can bring in a check that deals with a physical Mega Rayquaza only for it to be destroyed by a Draco Meteor. Be weary upon deciding to use Dragon Ascent, as the defence Defense drops can leave you susceptible to priority moves from Arceus and other Mega Rayquaza. This set cannot sweep teams as the other Mega Rayquaza sets, due to it being plagued by stat drops, meaning it should be geared towards a wallbreaker instead of a sweeper.
Team Options
========
Primal Groudon is a great partner for this set, as it can effectively run a Dual Dance or Rock polish Polish set, due to Mega Rayquaza being able to weaken down all of Primal Groudon's checks[,] allowing for it to sweep the opposing team with ease. Primal Groudon can also deal with Fairy types Fairy-types easily and absorbs absorb status moves such as like Will-O-Wisp and Thunder Wave, which can cripple Mega Rayquaza. It can additionally spread paralysis against faster threats, which helps Mega Rayquaza wallbreak easier, not fearing being revenged killed. Other setup set up sweepers such as Nasty Plot Darkrai, Swords Dance Arceus and Geomancy Xerneas can also be added with this set, as both their all of their check and counters can also be severely weakened by Mega Rayquaza's scary offensive pressure as well. Hazard removal is required, as Mega Rayquaza will tend to switch out frequently due to the stat drops from it's its moves. Good examples are Latios and Arceus-Fairy/Steel Steel/Fairy Arceus, [Not sure if you would use Steel Arceus/Fairy Arceus or Steel/Fairy Arceus here. Steel/Fairy Arceus sounds correct to me. Hopefully Snobalt will clarify.] as Mega Rayquaza can weaken down their check checks and counters as well with Earthquake. Hazard support is also advised, as it lets Mega Rayquaza have an easier time wallbreaking the opposing team, acquiring more OHKO's OHKOs then compared to than without hazards up. Notable pokemon include Primal Groudon and Klekfi, who can apply pressure to the opposing team while setting up their respective hazards. Cleric support can be useful to use in conjunction with this set, as Mega Rayquaza will often tend to be worn down quickly after Life Orb recoil and constant switching due to when Draco Meteor and Dragon Ascent stat drops occur. If Mega Rayquaza chooses to run Earthquake, pokemon Pokemon that can remove Steel types Steel-types like Ferrothorn and Skarmory are recommended. This includes Primal Groudon and Ho-Oh, which can break also break through bulky Fairy types, and also appreciate Mega Rayquaza's wallbreaking capabilities immensely.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
Mega Rayquaza has many options to chose from. An example of this being Choice Band set, as it is an effective cleaner that can sweep late game once the opposing team is weakened down. Common moves to the on this set include Dragon Ascent, V-Create, Earthquake, Waterfall[,] and Extreme Speed, which makes it capable of breaking the majority of defensive cores in the tier with ease. Although, Mega Rayquaza's setup set up capabilities are very appealing and often overshadow the Choice Band set because of this. Mega Rayquaza can run a Choice Specs set as well as it can surprise and KO physically orientated walls such as Lugia and Primal Groudon, but is generally not recommended as it is forced to run Dragon Ascent, meaning that it will need to invest in Atk EV's Attack EVs in order to abuse Mega Rayquaza's full potential. It also means that Mega Rayquaza cannot utilize Extreme Speed, which makes Mega Rayquaza easily revenge killed by faster pokemon like Darkrai and Mewtwo. Being locked into Draco Meteor can also be a set back as it lowers your SpA Special Attack by two stages, and it also means you your opponent can easily bring in a Fairy type pokemon such as Fairy-type Pokemon like Xerneas, and leave it a free turn to setup set up with Geomancy. Regular Rayquaza can also be used, but it is outclassed by it's Mega form forme, due to it being able to do everything regular Rayquaza can, but better. Although, it can effectively be used as a good wallbreaker that can be used alongside another mega pokemon Mega Pokemon such as Mega Diancie or Mega Salamence, but it's still rather niche overall. A bulky Mega Rayquaza set is possible as well, due to Mega Rayquaza's great bulk in conjunction with Delta Stream. Bulky spreads with Swords Dance and Dragon Dance are possible, giving Mega Rayquaza more setup opportunities with it's its extra bulk. A spread of 200 HP / 252 Atk Attack / 56 Spe Speed with an Adamant nature allows Mega Rayquaza to be able to live a +2 Extreme Speed from a Jolly Lum Berry Arceus after Stealth Rocks. It is also able to outspeed unvesisted uninvested Arceus[,] and Primal Kyogre[,] and Groudon without any stat boosts, and can outspeed the entire meta after a Dragon Dance. However, this set is quite mediocre as Primal Groudon and Primal Kyogre can both setup set up with there their impressive bulk as well, and the lack of speed Speed Mega Rayquaza loses with this set leaves it to be susceptible to faster pokemon Pokemon that can revenge kill it. Choice Scarf Mega Rayquaza is often considered viable due to the majority of players assuming that it is a great revenge killer. This is true to some extent, but Mega Rayquaza's access to Extreme Speed means it's somewhat unnecessary to run Choice Scarf to out speed outspeed other threats. Mega Rayquaza can also gain speed Speed boosts from Dragon Dance as well, which often surpasses the capabilities of the Choice Scarf set, as it's its lack of Life Orb or boosted stats often leaves Mega Rayquaza too weak to 2HKO the threats it's supposed to.
Checks and Counters
===================
**Fairy Types**:
Bulky Fairy types Fairy-types such as Xerneas, Klekfi Klefki[,] and Arceus-Fairy Fairy Arceus can all check Mega Rayquaza, due to them being immune to Dragon Dragon-type moves, and they are usually capable of living any unboosted attack move Mega Rayquaza has to offer, and proceed to OHKO Mega Rayquaza with their respective STAB attacks. Mega Rayquaza will also need to be weary of Choice Scarf Xerneas and fast bulky Arceus-Fairy Fairy Arceus which are able to out speed outspeed Mega Rayquaza and take it out. Klekfi Klefki is also a neuisance nuisance, as it is able to hax out Mega Rayquaza with Swagger[,] and Thunder Wave[,] and /Double Team before it is even able to hit it with an attack.
**Lugia**:
It can check Mega Rayquaza with Multiscale, and be able to 2HKO it with Ice Beam. However, Lugia will always need to be at full health if it would like to take a boosted hit, and will need to invest in SpA Special Attack in order to be able to 2HKO or OHKO Mega Rayquaza with Ice Beam.
**Arceus-Dragon Dragon Arceus**: Bulky Arceus-Dragon Dragon Arceus sets can usually prevent any 2HKO from non-special or mixed sets, while being able to OHKO Rayquaza with Judgment. Its defensive typing allows it to survive any of Rayquaza's attacks besides Outrage and Draco Meteor without being hit super effectively.
**Yveltal**: Bulky Yveltal variants with Foul Play allow it to deal massive amounts of damage to every Mega Rayquaza variant except the Choice Specs set, while it can survive any unboosted hit.
**Status Moves**: Status moves like Thunder Wave and Will-O-Wisp from pokemon Pokemon like Klekfi Klefki and Mega Sableye such as burn and paralysis respectively, can cripple Mega Rayquaza tremendously, and potentially leave it to be a deadweight pokemon useless for the rest of the match. Although if it Rayquaza chooses to run a Lum Berry, this issue can be alleviated for only a one time use.
**Steel Types**: Steel type pokemon Steel-type Pokemon can resist both of Mega Rayquaza's STAB attacks and can wall it depending on which coverage moves Mega Rayquaza decides to run. Bullet Punch users can revenge kill Mega Rayquaza once it's weakened, as they resist Extreme Speed.
**Arceus-Rock Rock Arceus**: Defnesive Arceus-Rock Defensive Rock Arceus is able to live a +1 Waterfall / Earthquake from Mega Rayquaza, and can burn or paralysis paralyze it in return.
**Faster Pokemon**: Faster threats such as Darkrai and Mewtwo can revenge kill Mega Rayquaza once it has been weakened by Life Orb recoil or Dragon Ascent stat drops, or even a mixture of both cases. Choice Scarf users such as Kyreum-W Kyurem-W and Genesect can also threaten to OHKO Mega Rayquaza without any speed boosts with a super effective Ice Beam. This means Mega Rayquaza will often rely on priority to deal with these faster threats, but these pokemon Pokemon will need to be weary as Mega Rayquaza can potentially KO them with a boosted Extreme Speed when they are weakened.
Mega Rayquaza is a dominant force in the current Anything Goes metagame, with it's amazing 180 offensive stats coupled with great Dragon/Flying offensive typing makes it one of the best wallbreakers in the tier. It's STAB moves combined with it's great coverage makes it difficult to find checks and counters that can reliably switchin to it's attacks. It also has great bulk for such an offensive pokemon Pokemon, as it's amazing defensive typing in conjunction with Delta Stream that cuts half it's its weaknesses and lets it cancel out removes opposing primal weather[Not sure how capitalization goes in terms of referring to primal weather, I'm going to assume this is correct. Snobalt correct me if I'm wrong. <3], means it can posses possess great defensive synergy on offensively orientated teams. Mega Rayquaza contains a diverse movepool with priority such as Extreme Speed and two setup moves in Dragon Dance and Swords Dance. It's Its amazing coverage lets it hit most of the metagame for at least neutral damage. It's Its lack of needing to hold a mega Mega stone also helps increase the diversity between it's its sets, meaning it can have more options compared to other mega pokemon Mega Pokemon. [Seems there are a lot of possessive mistakes here. To clarify, "its" is correct in use of showing possession. "it's" should be used as a contraction.]
However, although it has a high base speed Speed, it still does not let it outspeed key threats in Deoxys-Attack, Darkrai and Mewtwo, leaving it reliant on priority to take them out. This is an issue as Mega Rayquaza will often seem force forced to run Extreme Speed so that it cannot be revenge killed easily, especially before mega evolving Mega Evolving. It also being Being slower against Arceus also means that it can be taken out by a faster Extreme Speed [Had two instances of"also"]. Mega Rayquaza has a slight opportunity cost of taking up your team's teams mega slot Mega Slot as well. Overall, Mega Rayquaza's fantastic stats[,] coupled with it's amazing typing combined with it's , amazing typing, and advantageous ability makes is it one of the best wallbreakers in the tier, and can definitely be added to any team needing an offensive juggernaut, and should be prepared for in any serious Anything Goes team.
[SET]
name: Dragon Dance
move 1: Dragon Dance
move 2: Dragon Ascent
move 3: Earthquake / V-Create
move 4: Extreme Speed
item: Lum Berry
ability: Air Lock
nature: Adamant
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Dragon Dance has the opportunity to boost Mega Rayquaza's Attack and Speed by one stage, making it capable of sweeping many teams even after 1 boost. Dragon Ascent is it's its flying Flying-type STAB move of choice, as it let's it to can 2HKO most neutral targets after one attack Attack boost like Primal Groudon, Lugia[,] and Arceus. While Earthquake is for coverage to coverage for common Flying-type resists such as Klefki, Arceus-Rock and Arceus-Steel. V-Create is an alternative that could be replaced instead of Earthquake, as it allows Mega Rayquaza to hit steel types Steel-types such as Ferrothorn, Arceus-Steel[,] and Skarmory for significantly more damage, however it's its stats drops[,] in conjunction with Dragon Ascent[,] can wear Mega Rayquaza down rather quickly. Extreme Speed should be used for priority, being able to be faster than outspeed Arceus's Extreme Speed after one Dragon Dance boost. It also reliably hits targets while Mega Rayquaza does not have any speed boosts.
Set Details
========
Lum Berry is the most effective item on in this set, as it can allow Mega Rayquaza to sponge status for one turn, and retaliate back with a powerful attack. This helps it defeat Klefki and Mega Sableye more reliably. The Adamant nature is chosen as it increases Mega Rayquaza's raw power, and does not mind the incapability of running max speed Speed, due to Dragon Dance boosting it's its Speed stat already. However, Jolly can still be run used if you prefer Mega Rayquaza to out speed pokemon outspeed Pokemon such as Mega Diancie and Latios before any boosts. This depends on what your team requires Mega Rayquaza to accomplish. Finally, the EV's EVs are maxed out in Attack and Speed to have the highest chances chance of sweeping.
Usage Tips
========
Dragon Dance Mega Rayquaza is often preferred to be used late game, once the opposing team is weakened so that it can start setting up freely. Notable pokemon Pokemon that Dragon Dance Mega Rayquaza prefers to be weakened are Steel types Steel-types that are not hit supper super effectively by Ground type Ground-type attacks, and bulky Fairy types Fairy-types that can live a +1 Dragon Ascent. Also, make sure you do not try to setup on pokemon Pokemon that can potentially cripple Mega Rayquaza. Even if you are carrying a Lum Berry, pokemon Pokemon such as Klefki and bulky Arceus can either paralyze or burn it again respectively after Mega Rayquaza has used a turn to setup set up. Try not to bring Mega Rayquaza in on opposing attacks, even if they are neutral, due to Mega Rayquaza being threatened to be too weakened becoming too weak to take priority moves afterwards. Lastly, avoid using Dragon Ascent when it is unnecessary. Such as ,such as when Mega Rayquaza is facing a weakened Xerneas or Arceus Ground Ground Arceus, if it is capable of taking them out with a +1 Earthquake, it is recommended to use that instead of Dragon Ascent, as the defense Defense drops can leave Mega Rayquaza susceptible to priority moves afterwards.
Team Options
========
Due to Mega Rayquaza's immaculate offensive prowess and wallbreaking capabilities, it can easily fit onto any offensive team. Specially defensive Primal Groudon is an amazing partner for Dragon Dance Mega Rayquaza[,] as even Even if it is running Lum Berry, it still does not appreciate status, and utilizing Primal Groudon to sponge burns and paralysis can save your Lum Berry for things like Swagger Klefki, while it can set up Stealth Rocks. It also still deals with Fairies like Xerneas and Arceus-Fairy Fairy Arceus, which otherwise can force Mega Rayquaza to not setup prevent Mega Rayquaza from using set up moves. Klefki is another great partner for Mega Rayquaza, as it can absorb Fairy- and Dragon-type attacks while it can spread also spreading useful paralysis that can help Mega Rayquaza to sweep later on[.], and it It also is weak to Fire and Ground, in which Mega Rayquaza has no problem switching into. Mega Diancie is a huge threat for Mega Rayquaza, as it can outspeed and KO it on a switch-in without any boosts. Luckily, Calm Mind Arceus-Steel Steel Arceus is a great counter to Mega Diancie that pairs well with Mega Rayquaza, as it can also deal with Arceus-Fairy Fairy Arceus, Defensive Yveltal and Non-Focus Blast non-Focus Blast Xerneas. Hazard removal is also encouraged for this set, using when using pokemon Pokemon such as Arceus-Fairy Fairy Arceus and Latios/Latias are recommended, as Mega Rayquaza can weaken their checks and counters such as like Klekfi and Arceus-Steel Steel Arceus with Earthquake. Hazard setters are also recommended, as Mega Rayquaza can sometimes get crucial KO's KOs on opponents like Multiscale Lugia with hazards up like with Multiscale Lugia and be able to have a higher chance of OHKOing Arceus after one boost. Other physical wallbreakers like Arceus-Ground Ground Arceus and Arceus-Ghost Ghost Arceus can even be used to weaken Mega Rayquaza's checks, and can apply more offensive pressure to the opposing team. Steel Type pokemon such as Arceus-Steel Steel-type Pokemon like Steel Arceus and Ferrothorn are great partners for Mega Rayquaza that should be considered as well, as they have amazing defensive synergy with it and can set up hazards to strengthen Mega Rayquaza's sweeping potential.
[SET]
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Dragon Ascent
move 3: Earthquake / V-Create
move 4: Extreme Speed
item: Life Orb / Lum Berry
ability: Air Lock
nature: Jolly / Adamant
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Swords Dance boosts Mega Rayquaza's attack Attack to insane levels, letting it easily OHKO or 2HKO the entire metagame after one boost. Dragon Ascent is a great STAB move on Mega Rayquaza, as it allows it to hit pokemon Pokemon such as Xerneas, Ho-Oh[,] and Lugia for powerful neutral damage. Earthquake is nice coverage in conjunction with Dragon Ascent, letting Mega Rayquaza hit threats such as Primal Groudon, Arceus-Rock Rock Arceus[,] and Klefki super effectively. While V-Create can be used instead to hit pokemon Pokemon such as Ferrothorn and Skarmory for super effective damage, which Earthquake cannot. Although One must be warned that the stat drops from V-Create coupled with the stat drops from Dragon Ascent can weaken Mega Rayquaza quite quickly. Extreme Speed should be used for priority to hit faster threats that can threaten to revenge kill you.
Set Details
========
Life Orb is generally preferred to get key KO's KOs on pokemon who would otherwise be able to live a +2 boosted attack from Mega Rayquaza. Lum Berry is a popular alternative that allows you to be able to sponge a Thunder Wave or Swagger from Klefki or a Will-O-Wisp from Mega Sableye and Arceus-Fairy Fairy Arceus and retaliate back without recoil from Life Orb. The Jolly nature is usually used more often as it allows Mega Rayquaza to outspeed pokemon that can threaten it like Mega Diancie, Adamant Arceus, Modest Latios/Latias and Lugia. Adamant can also be used to get the almost guaranteed 2HKO with Dragon's Ascent Dragon Ascent against Multiscale Lugia, although you are open to be outspeeded outsped by the aforementioned pokemon Pokemon. The EV's EVs are maxed out on in Speed and Attack to have full potential on outspeeding the majority of the metagame and dealing as much damage as possible.
Usage Tips
========
Since Mega Rayquaza cannot boost it's speed its Speed with this set, it risks being revenge killed against more offensive teams. However, it performs great against Stall stall teams in which it has an easier time setting up against pokemon Pokemon that cannot inflict significant damage to it. It is generally preferred to sweep with Swords Dance Mega Rayquaza later on during the match, by letting teamates teammates take care of threats like Primal Groudon and Klefki who can hamper Mega Rayquaza's sweeping capabilities at full health. Mega Rayquaza should also not be switching in on powerful attacks, meaning it should only come in after a pokemon Pokemon has been KO'ed KOed on your team. It is advised to conserve it's its health until late game, as that is when it will be able to sweep more efficiently. Although, it mostly appreciates coming in on weakened pokemon Pokemon, so that it can revenge kill them with Extreme Speed which guarantees, guaranteeing a free mega evolution Mega Evolution. Mega Rayquaza should avoid setting up on defensive Arceus forms, as they can threaten to cripple Mega Rayquaza with Will-O-Wisp. However it can OHKO Arceus-Fairy Fairy Type with a +2 Adamant Dragon Ascent after Stealth Rocks, which is one of it's its best counters. It also appreciates being at near full health against offensive Arceus forms formes as well, due to Arceus not being able to revenge kill you even at +2 with Extreme Speed. Being able to bluff whether or not your Mega Rayquaza has V-Create or Earthquake can also come to your advantage, as you opponent will need to be weary upon which check it can bring in against either move.
Team Options
========
Physically defensive Primal Groudon is one of the best partners for Swords Dance Mega Rayquaza as it can deal with Fairy types Fairy-types like Xerneas, Klekfi and Arceus-Fairy Fairy Arceus which threaten to take out Mega Rayquaza. It additionally takes priority moves from faster revenge killers, in which Mega Rayquaza is quite prone to. It can also absorb Will-O-Wisp or Thunder Wave, which would otherwise cripple Mega Rayquaza[,] if it choses if you choose to run Life Orb. Hazard removal is not mandatory, but heavily encouraged as Mega Rayquaza tends to switch in and out quite often. Arceus-Water Water Arceus is a nice teammate to do this as it can take on Primal Groudon quite easily. Hazard setters are also very nice to have, to as they can grant Mega Rayquaza more OHKO's OHKOs and to break Lugia's Multiscale. Good examples being Primal Groudon and Deoxys-Speed. Wallbreakers like Nasty Plot Darkrai and Calm Mind Primal Kyogre are also nice to add to your team, to take care of bulky walls such as Arceus-Fairy Fairy Arceus and Lugia with Multscale Multiscale intact that threaten Mega Rayquaza. Pokemon that can be threatened by Steel types Steel-types such as Xerneas and Latios also work very well with Mega Rayquaza if chooses it runs V-Create, due to it being able to lure and break down Ferrothorn and Skarmory, which the aforementioned pokemon Xernes and Latios can greatly benefit from.
[SET]
name: Mixed Life Orb Attacker
move 1: Draco Meteor
move 2: Dragon Ascent
move 3: Earthquake / Surf / Fire Blast
move 4: Extreme Speed
item: Life Orb
ability: Air Lock
nature: Naive
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Draco Meteor is a devastatingly strong special Dragon Dragon-type move that can lure in and break physically defensive walls that are assuming that Mega Rayquaza is purely physical. Dragon Ascent is Mega Rayquaza's second STAB move that let's lets it hit Fairy types Fairy-types that Draco Meteor cannot. It also let's lets it hit special walls that have no issue taking any of Mega Rayquaza's special moves like such as Ho-Oh and Primal Kyogre. Earthquake is more commonly used as a coverage option, as it let's lets Mega Rayquaza hit Steel types Steel-types like Steel Arceus such as Arceus-Steel and Klefki[,] and Rock types Rock-types like such as Mega Diancie and Arceus-Rock Rock Arceus super effectively. Surf can also be utilized to OHKO Primal Groudon, which can otherwise be able to live any hit Mega Rayquaza has to offer if it his is invested in bulk and is at relatively high HP. Fire Blast is another alternative that can also hit physically bulky Steel types Steel-types that are not hit super effectively by Earthquake, such as Skarmory and Ferrothorn. Extreme Speed should be used to take out faster threats such as Darkrai and Arceus[,] that can stop Mega Rayquaza's wallbreaking capabilities in it's tracks.
Set Details
========
Life Orb is seen on this set, as it increases it's Mega Rayquaza overall power and it's wallbreaking capabilities to impressive heights. Naive is the nature of choice, as it does not hinder Mega Rayquaza's offensive stats and still let's lets it out speed pokemon outspeed Pokemon such as Mega Diancie and Latios. Dropping it's its SpDef Special Defense stat over it's Def Defense is optimal, as it allows Mega Rayquaza to not be guaranteed 2HKOed by Arceus's Extreme Speed. However, it does leave it in range to get 2HKO'ed 2HKOed by Primal Kyogre's and Mewtwo's Ice Beam. The EV's EVs are set in place in order for Mega Rayquaza to OHKO Primal Groudon with Surf and 2HKO Arceus with Draco Meteor, and still be able to muscle through most special walls with ease.
Usage Tips
========
This Mega Rayquaza set is optimized to be used early within the game, as it can break through the opposing team, due to it lacking any true checks and switchins because of it's expansive coverage because of its expansive coverage. However, it can be quite inferior compared to the other sets, as it cannot boost any of it's its stats which leaves it prone to faster revenge killers. It can also be easily taken down by two of the metagames most prominent threats in Darkrai and Klefki, as they can take advantage of Draco Meteor and Dragon Ascent stat drops and Substitute against it. This is why it is important to only use this set against pokemon Pokemon that cannot take advantage of it's its lowered stats and can start setting up against it, and should be used more during the end of the match, when it's its checks and counters are taken out.[.] [Not sure if this extra period is intentional here, but I removed it.] As mentioned previously, this set is not designed to take hits from even neutral attacks. So In light of this, it is advised to safety bring in Rayquaza in order for it to have a longer sustainability[,] by sacking a teammate or bringing it in on a weakened pokemon Pokemon that can be taken out by Extreme Speed to ensure the safe mega evolution Mega Evolution. Being capable able to bluff that this Mega Rayquaza set is not strictly physical is also vital and sometimes game changing throughout the match. As your opponent can bring in a check that deals with a physical Mega Rayquaza only for it to be destroyed by a Draco Meteor. Be weary upon deciding to use Dragon Ascent, as the defence Defense drops can leave you susceptible to priority moves from Arceus and other Mega Rayquaza. This set cannot sweep teams as the other Mega Rayquaza sets, due to it being plagued by stat drops, meaning it should be geared towards a wallbreaker instead of a sweeper.
Team Options
========
Primal Groudon is a great partner for this set, as it can effectively run a Dual Dance or Rock polish Polish set, due to Mega Rayquaza being able to weaken down all of Primal Groudon's checks[,] allowing for it to sweep the opposing team with ease. Primal Groudon can also deal with Fairy types Fairy-types easily and absorbs absorb status moves such as like Will-O-Wisp and Thunder Wave, which can cripple Mega Rayquaza. It can additionally spread paralysis against faster threats, which helps Mega Rayquaza wallbreak easier, not fearing being revenged killed. Other setup set up sweepers such as Nasty Plot Darkrai, Swords Dance Arceus and Geomancy Xerneas can also be added with this set, as both their all of their check and counters can also be severely weakened by Mega Rayquaza's scary offensive pressure as well. Hazard removal is required, as Mega Rayquaza will tend to switch out frequently due to the stat drops from it's its moves. Good examples are Latios and Arceus-Fairy/Steel Steel/Fairy Arceus, [Not sure if you would use Steel Arceus/Fairy Arceus or Steel/Fairy Arceus here. Steel/Fairy Arceus sounds correct to me. Hopefully Snobalt will clarify.] as Mega Rayquaza can weaken down their check checks and counters as well with Earthquake. Hazard support is also advised, as it lets Mega Rayquaza have an easier time wallbreaking the opposing team, acquiring more OHKO's OHKOs then compared to than without hazards up. Notable pokemon include Primal Groudon and Klekfi, who can apply pressure to the opposing team while setting up their respective hazards. Cleric support can be useful to use in conjunction with this set, as Mega Rayquaza will often tend to be worn down quickly after Life Orb recoil and constant switching due to when Draco Meteor and Dragon Ascent stat drops occur. If Mega Rayquaza chooses to run Earthquake, pokemon Pokemon that can remove Steel types Steel-types like Ferrothorn and Skarmory are recommended. This includes Primal Groudon and Ho-Oh, which can break also break through bulky Fairy types, and also appreciate Mega Rayquaza's wallbreaking capabilities immensely.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
Mega Rayquaza has many options to chose from. An example of this being Choice Band set, as it is an effective cleaner that can sweep late game once the opposing team is weakened down. Common moves to the on this set include Dragon Ascent, V-Create, Earthquake, Waterfall[,] and Extreme Speed, which makes it capable of breaking the majority of defensive cores in the tier with ease. Although, Mega Rayquaza's setup set up capabilities are very appealing and often overshadow the Choice Band set because of this. Mega Rayquaza can run a Choice Specs set as well as it can surprise and KO physically orientated walls such as Lugia and Primal Groudon, but is generally not recommended as it is forced to run Dragon Ascent, meaning that it will need to invest in Atk EV's Attack EVs in order to abuse Mega Rayquaza's full potential. It also means that Mega Rayquaza cannot utilize Extreme Speed, which makes Mega Rayquaza easily revenge killed by faster pokemon like Darkrai and Mewtwo. Being locked into Draco Meteor can also be a set back as it lowers your SpA Special Attack by two stages, and it also means you your opponent can easily bring in a Fairy type pokemon such as Fairy-type Pokemon like Xerneas, and leave it a free turn to setup set up with Geomancy. Regular Rayquaza can also be used, but it is outclassed by it's Mega form forme, due to it being able to do everything regular Rayquaza can, but better. Although, it can effectively be used as a good wallbreaker that can be used alongside another mega pokemon Mega Pokemon such as Mega Diancie or Mega Salamence, but it's still rather niche overall. A bulky Mega Rayquaza set is possible as well, due to Mega Rayquaza's great bulk in conjunction with Delta Stream. Bulky spreads with Swords Dance and Dragon Dance are possible, giving Mega Rayquaza more setup opportunities with it's its extra bulk. A spread of 200 HP / 252 Atk Attack / 56 Spe Speed with an Adamant nature allows Mega Rayquaza to be able to live a +2 Extreme Speed from a Jolly Lum Berry Arceus after Stealth Rocks. It is also able to outspeed unvesisted uninvested Arceus[,] and Primal Kyogre[,] and Groudon without any stat boosts, and can outspeed the entire meta after a Dragon Dance. However, this set is quite mediocre as Primal Groudon and Primal Kyogre can both setup set up with there their impressive bulk as well, and the lack of speed Speed Mega Rayquaza loses with this set leaves it to be susceptible to faster pokemon Pokemon that can revenge kill it. Choice Scarf Mega Rayquaza is often considered viable due to the majority of players assuming that it is a great revenge killer. This is true to some extent, but Mega Rayquaza's access to Extreme Speed means it's somewhat unnecessary to run Choice Scarf to out speed outspeed other threats. Mega Rayquaza can also gain speed Speed boosts from Dragon Dance as well, which often surpasses the capabilities of the Choice Scarf set, as it's its lack of Life Orb or boosted stats often leaves Mega Rayquaza too weak to 2HKO the threats it's supposed to.
Checks and Counters
===================
**Fairy Types**:
Bulky Fairy types Fairy-types such as Xerneas, Klekfi Klefki[,] and Arceus-Fairy Fairy Arceus can all check Mega Rayquaza, due to them being immune to Dragon Dragon-type moves, and they are usually capable of living any unboosted attack move Mega Rayquaza has to offer, and proceed to OHKO Mega Rayquaza with their respective STAB attacks. Mega Rayquaza will also need to be weary of Choice Scarf Xerneas and fast bulky Arceus-Fairy Fairy Arceus which are able to out speed outspeed Mega Rayquaza and take it out. Klekfi Klefki is also a neuisance nuisance, as it is able to hax out Mega Rayquaza with Swagger[,] and Thunder Wave[,] and /Double Team before it is even able to hit it with an attack.
**Lugia**:
It can check Mega Rayquaza with Multiscale, and be able to 2HKO it with Ice Beam. However, Lugia will always need to be at full health if it would like to take a boosted hit, and will need to invest in SpA Special Attack in order to be able to 2HKO or OHKO Mega Rayquaza with Ice Beam.
**Arceus-Dragon Dragon Arceus**: Bulky Arceus-Dragon Dragon Arceus sets can usually prevent any 2HKO from non-special or mixed sets, while being able to OHKO Rayquaza with Judgment. Its defensive typing allows it to survive any of Rayquaza's attacks besides Outrage and Draco Meteor without being hit super effectively.
**Yveltal**: Bulky Yveltal variants with Foul Play allow it to deal massive amounts of damage to every Mega Rayquaza variant except the Choice Specs set, while it can survive any unboosted hit.
**Status Moves**: Status moves like Thunder Wave and Will-O-Wisp from pokemon Pokemon like Klekfi Klefki and Mega Sableye such as burn and paralysis respectively, can cripple Mega Rayquaza tremendously, and potentially leave it to be a deadweight pokemon useless for the rest of the match. Although if it Rayquaza chooses to run a Lum Berry, this issue can be alleviated for only a one time use.
**Steel Types**: Steel type pokemon Steel-type Pokemon can resist both of Mega Rayquaza's STAB attacks and can wall it depending on which coverage moves Mega Rayquaza decides to run. Bullet Punch users can revenge kill Mega Rayquaza once it's weakened, as they resist Extreme Speed.
**Arceus-Rock Rock Arceus**: Defnesive Arceus-Rock Defensive Rock Arceus is able to live a +1 Waterfall / Earthquake from Mega Rayquaza, and can burn or paralysis paralyze it in return.
**Faster Pokemon**: Faster threats such as Darkrai and Mewtwo can revenge kill Mega Rayquaza once it has been weakened by Life Orb recoil or Dragon Ascent stat drops, or even a mixture of both cases. Choice Scarf users such as Kyreum-W Kyurem-W and Genesect can also threaten to OHKO Mega Rayquaza without any speed boosts with a super effective Ice Beam. This means Mega Rayquaza will often rely on priority to deal with these faster threats, but these pokemon Pokemon will need to be weary as Mega Rayquaza can potentially KO them with a boosted Extreme Speed when they are weakened.
A few notes here that would have made this check quicker, so in your next analysis this will be quicker:
- Using [Type] Arceus over Arceus-[Type]
- Pokemon is always capitalized.
- "it's" is not possessive, this is a contraction. Same issue with "let's"
- Use "-type" after referring to a specific type. Two examples: "Rock- and Fairy-types." "These Steel-types."
Hope I was of some help, and good luck with your analysis!
