[Almost Any Ability] Alakazam [QC 3/3] [Written] [GP 2/2]

[Laxpras]

[OVERVIEW]

Alakazam possesses a blazing Speed stat that allows it to outspeed the likes of Pokemon such as Choice Scarf Tyranitar. Its Speed combined with high Special Attack and a good movepool allows Alakazam to revenge kill well and act as a late-game sweeper. However, its Psychic typing does not provide it with the best STAB move and leaves it vulnerable to Pursuit trapping. Additionally, its weak defenses leave it susceptible to being revenge killed by priority or Choice Scarf foes. Alakazam also faces competition from other Sheer Force threats like Gengar, Azelf, and Thundurus-T. Azelf has a niche over Alakazam due to its usable Attack stat, allowing it to run mixed sets, though Alakazam is faster and has higher Special Attack. Overall, Alakazam is a strong threat that outspeeds and overpowers much of the AAA metagame, giving it a great matchup against offensive teams.

[SET]
name: Sheer Force Attacker
move 1: Psychic
move 2: Focus Blast
move 3: Shadow Ball
move 4: Energy Ball / Encore
item: Life Orb
ability: Sheer Force
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Psychic provides Alakazam with a powerful Sheer Force-boosted STAB move that can OHKO many threats in the metagame, such as Thundurus and even a physically defensive Zapdos after prior Stealth Rock damage. Focus Blast hits Dark- and Steel-type foes that can switch into Psychic, such as Tyranitar and Ferrothorn. Shadow Ball hits Psychic- and Ghost-type foes such as Latios and Doublade, OHKOing both of them. Energy Ball is a coverage move for threats like Manaphy and Suicune, OHKOing the former and 2HKOing the latter if it doesn't have a Calm Mind boost up. Encore is an option that shuts down foes that will attempt to set up, most notably Suicune. It also forces out Poison Heal users that rely on Protect to recover their health.


Set Details
========

EVs are set to maximize Speed and Special Attack. A Timid nature lets Alakazam outspeed much of the metagame, most notably Choice Scarf Tyranitar's Pursuit. Sheer Force boosts the power of each of Alakazam's moves. Life Orb works perfectly with Sheer Force by increasing Alakazam's damage output without the recoil damage.

Usage Tips
========

Alakazam can be used efficiently as a revenge killer, unless the foe has a Choice Scarf or strong priority. You should utilize Volt Switch or U-turn to get Alakazam safely into play, as Alakazam's poor defenses prevent it from being able to switch into attacks. Entry hazards limit the foe's opportunities to switch in even more. This is especially helpful against checks like RegenVest Goodra and Manaphy if Energy Ball is foregone. You must beware of Pursuit threats such as Escavalier and Scizor, as they are not taken down by Focus Blast. You should also be cautious of priority users such as Gale Wings Braviary and Extreme Speed Entei, as they revenge kill Alakazam. Lastly, Alakazam should only be sent out knowing it will be able to KO the foe, as it is unlikely that it will survive an attack.

Team Options
========

Magnet Pull users such as Infernape and Ampharos can remove RegenVest Escavalier and Scizor from play, both of which would otherwise Pursuit trap Alakazam. These two also provide U-turn and Volt Switch support. Strong physical attackers like Lucario and Heracross are recommended to beat special walls like Chansey. Additionally, Pursuit users such as Adaptability Tyranitar can trap counters like Mew and Meloetta. Normalize Gengar with Mean Look and Skill Swap can trap and beat similar counters like Chansey and Meloetta. Sheer Force Gengar has nearly identical counters as Alakazam, making Normalize Gengar a great lure. A counter to Gale Wings and -ate Extreme Speed users is necessary; Doublade and Skarmory fill this role well. Skarmory, Ferrothorn, and Chesnaught offer entry hazard support, making it easier for Alakazam to sweep. Flash Fire Forretress is a great teammate, as it tanks most physical hits and provides Rapid Spin and Volt Switch support. Additionally, it can check many priority users and can provide hazard support of its own. A mixed Genesect set has good synergy with Alakazam, as it can lure in threats like Manaphy and Meloetta, and it can pivot into Alakazam with U-turn to either give it a good matchup or provide solid damage to a main check. Additionally, Flamethrower can take out common Alakazam counters.

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

Download or Competitive can be used with Alakazite to get a strong and fast Mega Evolution with a immediate boost on a switch in. Signal Beam is an option that hits Bulletproof Dark-types, but it fails to OHKO Tyranitar. Substitute can be used when predicting a foe's switch out.

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

**RegenVest Users**: RegenVest Meloetta easily takes any of Alakazam's moves and can either OHKO it with Knock Off or get momentum with U-turn. Escavalier, Scizor, Goodra, and Genesect can all switch into Alakazam if it is not running Fire Punch. Escavalier and Scizor can then Pursuit trap Alakazam, ensuring it will be OHKOed.

**Special Defensive Walls**: Regenerator, Magic Bounce, or Unaware Chansey and Poison Heal Mandibuzz are examples of Pokemon that can switch in and take on Alakazam. Chansey can stall it out with Seismic Toss and Wish, and Mandibuzz immediately threatens Alakazam with Knock Off and U-turn.

**Priority Users**: Extreme Speed users like Lucario and Entei and Gale Wings users like Skarmory and Braviary easily revenge kill Alakazam, and Skarmory can even switch into a Psychic.

**Choice Scarf Users**: When holding a Choice Scarf, Pokemon like Victini or Krookodile can outspeed and OHKO Alakazam, and Krookodile can even Pursuit traps it.

**Bulletproof Users**: With immunities to Focus Blast, Energy Ball, and Psychic, Bulletproof Dark-types are rare but serious threats to Alakazam. Bulletproof Tyranitar will Pursuit trap Alakazam, while Bulletproof Choice Scarf Krookodile will outspeed and also Pursuit trap it. Bulletproof Ferrothorn and Excadrill are less common but still pose a threat due to their immunities and resistances to Psychic.

 

[Heavyweapons Mann]

I think Bulletproof makes you immune to Energy Ball AND Shadow Ball, so a Dark-type with Bulletproof would be immune to every single move on the Sheer Force set.

 

[shiloh]

[OVERVIEW]

• Blazing speed
• Very high SpA
• Good movepool
• Poor stab typing for offense
• Easily revenge killed by priority
• Revenge Killer / Late Game Sweeper. Hard to switch into move these two points to the top w/ the other pros
• Great matchup against offensive teams <-as well

[SET]
name: Sheer Force Attacker
move 1: Psychic
move 2: Focus Blast
move 3: Shadow Ball
move 4: Energy Ball / Encore
item: Life Orb
ability: Sheer Force
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

• Psychic provides Alakazam with a powerful Sheer Force-boosted STAB move that can OHKO many threats in the meta, such as Thundurus find a few more things, esp defensive walls that it can ohko
• Focus Blast hits dark and steel type foes that can switch into Psychic, such as Tyranitar.
• Shadow Ball hits psychic and ghost type foes such as Latios and Doublade, which it OHKOs
• Energy Ball is a coverage move for threats like Manaphy and Suicune, OHKOing Manaphy and 2HKOing Suicune, if it doesn't have a Calm Mind boost up.
• ive been testing out this set, and i think encore should be slashed as its just as helpful w/ dealing with suicune and things as they cant calm mind or protect in front of zam due to encore forcing them into using the move. while ohkoing manaphy is nice, you still ohko it with psychic after a layer of rocks / spikes which should be enough imo

Set Details
========

• EVs are set to maximize speed and special attack
• A Timid nature lets Alakazam outspeed much of the meta, and even scarf pursuit threats like Tyranitar
• Sheer Force boosts all of Alakazam's moves, further enhancing its power
• Life Orb works perfectly with sheer force by increasing Alakazam's damage output without the recoil damage.

Usage Tips

========

• Can outspeed and OHKO many offensive threats, allowing it to win many matchups mention examples of what it outspeeds
• Can be used efficintly as a revenge killer except against things w/ priority and scarves
• Can sweep late game once checks are removed i feel this is pretty obvious and you dont need to mention it as theoretically every pokemon can sweep once its checks have been removed
• Use Volt Switch or U-Turn to get Alakazam safely into play due to its low defenses and inability to switch into even neutral physical attacks
• Use hazards to remove even more switchin opportunities for the opponent mention a few things rocks / spikes can help w/ (Manaphy comes to mind)
• Must beware of Pursuit threats such as Escavalier and Scizor that it can't hit with focus blast, otherwise tyranitar would count here
• Easily revenge killed by priority users like ____
• Should only be sent out knowing it will KO foe, as it is very frail

Team Options
========

• Magnet pull users such as Infernape or Ampharos can remove Regenvest Escavalier and Scizor from play which usually trap it with pursuit
• Strong fighting types like Lucario and Heracross are necessary to beat Chansey and other physical walls
• Choice Scarf Adaptability Tyranitar can pursuit trap counters like Mew and Meloetta
• Normalize Gengar with Mean Look and Skill Swap can trap and beat counters like Chansey and Meloetta
• A counter to Gale Wings and -ate speed users is necessary, Doublade and Skarmory fill this role well
• Deoxys-S can spread hazards, making it easier for Alakazam to sweep idk if you want to pair up deo + zam as they have the same terrible typing and force you to be really restricted while teambuilding

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

• Download or Competitive can be used with Alakazamite to get a strong and fast mega with a immediate boost on the switchin.
• Alakazam can run Fire Punch with a Hasty Nature and 4 Atk EVs to deal with Escavalier and scizor / genesect
• Taunt can be used to prevent walls like Chansey from recovering health
• Encore can be used if a foe sets up or uses a support move that doesn't threaten Alakazam, such as Will O Wisp.
• Foul Play can be used on opponent switchins to things like Scizor, but it is a weaker move and will give life orb recoil damage idt this should be mentioned at all
• i would mention signal beam as well, as it gives you an option to hit bulletproof dark types :o

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

**RegenVest Users**: RegenVest Meloetta easily takes any of Alakazam's moves, and can either KO it with Knock Off, or get momentum with U-Turn. Escavalier, Scizor, Goodra, and Genesect all switch into Alakazam if it is not running Fire punch. Escavalier and Scizor then Pursuit trap Alakazam, ensuring it will be KOd.

**Special Defensive Walls**: Regenerator/Magic Bounce/Unaware Chansey and Poison Heal Manidbuzz are examples of Pokemon that can switch in and take on Alakazam. Without Taunt, Alakazam can not do enough damage to KO Chansey. Chansey can stall it out with Seismic Toss and Wish. Mandibuzz immediately threatens Alakazam with Knock Off and U-Turn.

**Priority Users**: Gale Wings users like Skarmory and Braviary easily revenge Kill Alakazam, and Skarmory can even switch into a Psychic. Extreme Speed users like Lucario and Entei also revenge kill Alakazam.

**Choice Scarf Users**: Pokemon like Victini or Krookodile can outspeed and OHKO Alakazam with choice scarf, and Krookodile even Pursuit traps it.

**Bulletproof Dark Types**: With a Focus Blast, Energy Ball and Psychic immunity, Bulletproof Dark types are a rare but serious threat to Alakazam. Bulletproof Tyranitar will Pursuit trap Alakazam, while Bulletproof Choice Scarf Krookodile will outspeed and Pursuit Trap it

implement the bold and you get QC 1/3

 

[Laxpras]

implement the bold and you get QC 1/3

Implemented

 

[motherlove]

[OVERVIEW]

• Blazing speed < I feel like outspeeding scarf ttar should be mentioned here cuz it's pretty important and a generally recognised benchmark.
• Very high SpA
• Good movepool
• Revenge Killer / Late Game Sweeper. Hard to switch into
• Great matchup against offensive teams
• Poor stab typing for offense
• Poor defensive typing making it weak to pursuit
• Easily revenge killed by priority
• Competition from other sheer force mons like gengar / thundy
• 
  
• Overall, a powerful threat that can outspeed and overpower much of the meta

[SET]
name: Sheer Force Attacker
move 1: Psychic
move 2: Focus Blast
move 3: Shadow Ball
move 4: Energy Ball / Encore
item: Life Orb
ability: Sheer Force
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

• Psychic provides Alakazam with a powerful Sheer Force-boosted STAB move that can OHKO many threats in the meta, such as Thundurus and even a physically defensive Zapdos after prior Stealth Rock Damage
• Focus Blast hits dark and steel type foes that can switch into Psychic, such as Tyranitar + name a steel type
• Shadow Ball hits psychic and ghost type foes such as Latios and Doublade, which it OHKOs
• Energy Ball is a coverage move for threats like Manaphy and Suicune, OHKOing Manaphy and 2HKOing Suicune, if it doesn't have a Calm Mind boost up.
• Encore is an option that beats opponents who attempt setting up, notably Suicune. poison heal mons that rely on protect are forced out too

Set Details
========

• EVs are set to maximize speed and special attack
• A Timid nature lets Alakazam outspeed much of the meta, and even scarf pursuit threats like Tyranitar
• Sheer Force boosts all of Alakazam's moves, further enhancing its power
• Life Orb works perfectly with sheer force by increasing Alakazam's damage output without the recoil damage.

Usage Tips

========

• Can outspeed and OHKO many offensive threats. This allows it to beat things <"things" like Thundurus, Manaphy, Gengar, and non Bulletproof Scarf Tyranitar is this a usage tip tho? Or should it be in set details or smt?
• Can be used efficiently as a revenge killer, unless opponents are scarfed of have strong priority. <using a faster mon as a revenge killer seems pretty obvious, ot sure if it's worth mentioning.
• Use Volt Switch or U-Turn to get Alakazam safely into play as Alakazam's poor defenses (dissuade users from switching it into attacks.) < wat does that mean? Also if anything that's where you can say that zam can simply be brough after another mon died to rk.
• Use hazards to remove even more switchin opportunities for the opponent. This is especially helpful against checks like Regenvest Goodra and Manaphy if Energy Ball is foregone.
• Must beware of Pursuit threats such as Escavalier and Scizor as they are not taken down by Focus Blast.
• Easily revenge killed by priority users such as gale wing Braviary and Entei
• Should only be sent out knowing it will KO foe, as it is very frail

Team Options
========

• Magnet pull users such as Infernape or Ampharos can remove Regenvest Escavalier and Scizor from play, which usually pursuit trap Alakazam.
• Strong fighting types phisical attackers like Lucario and Heracross are necessary to beat Chansey and other special walls special walls like chansey.
• Choice Scarf (choice scarf isn't necessary) Adaptability Tyranitar can pursuit trap counters like Mew and Meloetta <also I'd rather say "pursuit users like adapt ttar can trap melo / mew"
• Normalize Gengar with Mean Look and Skill Swap can trap and beat counters like Chansey and Meloetta <mention that gengar has almost the same set of counters and therefor can bait them out.
• A counter to Gale Wings and -ate speed users is necessary, Doublade and Skarmory fill this role well
• Skarmory, Ferrothorn and Chesnaught can spread hazards, making it easier for Alakazam to sweep

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

• Download or Competitive can be used with Alakazamite to get a strong and fast mega with a immediate boost on the switchin.
• Alakazam can run Fire Punch with a Hasty Nature and 4 Atk EVs to deal with Escavalier and Genesect.
• Taunt can be used to prevent walls like Chansey from recovering health <but isn't advised because of mb
• Signal Beam is an option that hits Bulletproof dark types, but it still generally does not OHKO. signal beam is not an option. Dazzling gleam can hit sableye / spiritomb and bulletproof dark types.
• Sub can be used on a predicted switch

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

**RegenVest Users**: RegenVest Meloetta easily takes any of Alakazam's moves, and can either KO it with Knock Off, or get momentum with U-Turn. Escavalier, Scizor, Goodra, and Genesect all switch into Alakazam if it is not running Fire punch. Escavalier and Scizor then Pursuit trap Alakazam, ensuring it will be KOd.

**Special Defensive Walls**: Regenerator/Magic Bounce/Unaware Chansey and Poison Heal Manidbuzz are examples of Pokemon that can switch in and take on Alakazam. Without Taunt, Alakazam can not do enough damage to KO Chansey. Chansey can stall it out with Seismic Toss and Wish. Mandibuzz immediately threatens Alakazam with Knock Off and U-Turn.

**Priority Users**: Gale Wings users like Skarmory and Braviary easily revenge Kill Alakazam, and Skarmory can even switch into a Psychic. Extreme Speed users like Lucario and Entei also revenge kill Alakazam.


**Choice Scarf Users**: Pokemon like Victini or Krookodile can outspeed and OHKO Alakazam with choice scarf, and Krookodile even Pursuit traps it.

**Bulletproof Dark Types**: With a Focus Blast, Energy Ball and Psychic immunity, Bulletproof Dark types are a rare but serious threat to Alakazam. Bulletproof Tyranitar will Pursuit trap Alakazam, while Bulletproof Choice Scarf Krookodile will outspeed and Pursuit Trap it

I got into the "comments in bold" way of doing things because it's way easier.

 

[Laxpras]

Made all changes except: Left voltturn there because thats important to get zam into play, changed wording. Kept signal beam because it hits ttar/krook harder than dgleam due to sheer force. Sableye/Spiritomb are nonexistent in aaa. Open to changing if others disagree

Will begin writing later

 

[motherlove]

I didn't say to remove volturn. But you have one point saying that you can bring zam for an rk and one saying you can bring it via volturn. I was thinking you could combine the two saying "zam can be sent in safely via volturn or simply after another mon died to rk" as having a point to say zam can rk seems a bit obvious and pointless.
Up to you thought.

Ok yeh, agreed on signal beam. Also signal beam OHKOes max HP krook which is the most common bulletproof mon (ttar generally prefers adapt) so instead of saying "generally does not OHKO" maybe say "signal beam can be used to OHKO bulletproof krook or 2HKO bulletproof ttar on the switch in".

For checks and counters when you mention bulletproof dark types, add bulletproof steel types since excadrill and ferro can both run bulletproof successfully.

QC 2/3

 

[Laxpras]

Written, ready for third QC

edit: tagging Lcass4919 -Grim

 

[skies]

Lcass4919 -Grim

 

[Lcass4919]

pfft you dont run this anymore i dont have to listen to you :^) one sec, ill get on it.
bolding the stuff in the quote because lazy.

[OVERVIEW]

Alakazam possesses a blazing speed that allows it to outspeed the likes of choice scarf Tyranitar, giving it a great matchup against offense. Its speed combined with strong special attack and good movepool allows Alakazam to revenge kill well and act as a late game sleeper. However, psychic typing does not provide it with the best STAB move, and leaves it vulnerable to Pursuit trapping. Additionally, its weak defenses leave it vulnerable to being revenge killed by priority or choice scarf foes. For these reasons, Alakazam has competition from other Sheer Force threats like Gengar and Thundurus-T. Overall, it is a strong threat that outspeeds and overpowers much of the AAA metagame. gengar is really no better in the bulk department, probably mention instead that azelf can run similar sets, but also have attack, utility, and mixed potential which gives zam some heavy competition in the frail nuke department.

[SET]
name: Sheer Force Attacker
move 1: Psychic
move 2: Focus Blast
move 3: Shadow Ball
move 4: Energy Ball / Encore
item: Life Orb
ability: Sheer Force
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Psychic provides Alakazam with a powerful Sheer Force-boosted STAB move that can OHKO many threats in the meta, such as Thundurus and even a physically defensive Zapdos after prior Stealth Rock Damage. Focus Blast hits dark and steel type foes that can switch into Psychic, such as Tyranitar and Ferrothorn. Shadow Ball hits psychic and ghost type foes such as Latios and Doublade, which it OHKOs. Energy Ball is a coverage move for threats like Manaphy and Suicune, OHKOing Manaphy and 2HKOing Suicune, if it doesn't have a Calm Mind boost up. Encore is an option that beats opponents who attempt setting up, notably Suicune. Poison heal mons that rely on protect are forced out as well


Set Details
========

EVs are set to maximize speed and special attack. A Timid nature lets Alakazam outspeed much of the meta, and even choice scarf Tyranitar's Pursuit. Sheer Force boosts all of Alakazam's moves, further enhancing its power. Life Orb works perfectly with sheer force by increasing Alakazam's damage output without the recoil damage.

Usage Tips

========
Alakazam can be used efficiently as a revenge killer, unless opponents are scarfed of have strong priority. Players should utilize Volt Switch or U-Turn to get Alakazam safely into play as Alakazam's poor defenses prevent it from being able to switch into attacks. Hazard stacking removes even more switchin opportunities for the opponent. This is especially helpful against checks like Regenvest Goodra and Manaphy if Energy Ball is foregone. Users must beware of Pursuit threats such as Escavalier and Scizor as they are not taken down by Focus Blast. Players should also be cautious of priority users such as gale wing Braviary and Entei, as they revenge kill Alakazam. Lastly, Alakazam should only be sent out knowing it will KO the foe, as it is unlikely that it will live an attack.

Team Options
========

Magnet pull users such as Infernape and Ampharos can remove Regenvest Escavalier and Scizor from play, which otherwise pursuit trap Alakazam they also provide u-turn/volt switch support. Strong physical attackers like Lucario and Heracross are recommended to beat special walls like Chansey. Additionally, pursuit users such as Adaptability Tyranitar can trap counters like Mew and Meloetta. Normalize Gengar with Mean Look and Skill Swap can trap and beat similar counters like Chansey and Meloetta. Sheer Gengar has nearly identical counters as Alakazam, making Normalize Gengar a great lure. A counter to Gale Wings and -ate speed users is necessary, Doublade and Skarmory fill this role well. Skarmory, Ferrothorn and Chesnaught offer hazard support, making it easier for Alakazam to sweep. flash fire forretress is a good teammate, tanking most physical hits, spinning, volt switching, blocking most priority (counters entei for example) and setting hazards of its own. basically half the stuff zam needs all in one pokemon. speaking of, mention some good volturners that zam synergizes with, for example, zapdos lures out rock, ground, and LightningRod manaphy(if u-turn over v-switch obs), which zam can revenge kill with energy ball/focus blast. i'm sure you can find some better examples though.

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

Download or Competitive can be used with Alakazamite to get a strong and fast mega with a immediate boost on a switchin. Alakazam can also run Fire Punch with a Hasty Nature and 4 Atk EVs to better deal with Escavalier and Genesect.ehhh..idk if thats mentionable, since escav usually runs flash fire, and gene's entire potential sets beat zam 1v1 and runs primal seas. Signal Beam is an option that hits Bulletproof dark types, but fails to OHKO Tyranitar. Substitute can be used when predicting a foe's switchout.

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

**RegenVest Users**: RegenVest Meloetta easily takes any of Alakazam's moves, and can either KO it with Knock Off, or get momentum with U-Turn. Escavalier, Scizor, Goodra, and Genesect all switch into Alakazam if it is not running Fire punch. Escavalier and Scizor then Pursuit trap Alakazam, ensuring it will be KOd.

**Special Defensive Walls**: Regenerator/Magic Bounce/Unaware Chansey and Poison Heal Manidbuzz are examples of Pokemon that can switch in and take on Alakazam. Chansey can stall it out with Seismic Toss and Wish. Mandibuzz immediately threatens Alakazam with Knock Off and U-Turn.

**Priority Users**: Gale Wings users like Skarmory and Braviary easily revenge Kill Alakazam, and Skarmory can even switch into a Psychic. Extreme Speed users like Lucario and Entei also revenge kill Alakazam.


**Choice Scarf Users**: Pokemon like Victini or Krookodile can outspeed and OHKO Alakazam with choice scarf, and Krookodile even Pursuit traps it.

**Bulletproof Users**: With a Focus Blast, Energy Ball and Psychic immunity, Bulletproof Dark types are a rare but serious threat to Alakazam. Bulletproof Tyranitar will Pursuit trap Alakazam, while Bulletproof Choice Scarf Krookodile will outspeed and Pursuit trap it. Bulletproof Ferrothorn and Excadrill are less common, but still pose a threat due to their immunities and resists. offensive deoxys speed, tornadus therian, and other faster mons all come in and ohko zam easily.

add the bolded, then QC 3/3

 

[motherlove]

pfft you dont run this anymore i dont have to listen to you :^) one sec, ill get on it.
bolding the stuff in the quote because lazy.


add the bolded, then QC 3/3

Regenvest escavalier and genesect that is, genesect does run other sets but it's the best esvacalier set you can run. And offensive genesect sets that don't run prio or weak prio (like sheer force or primasea) are OHKOd by focus blast.

 

[Laxpras]

unfixable should i bother finishing or nah? Doesn't seem worth

 

[skies]

unfixable should i bother finishing or nah? Doesn't seem worth

if you feel it is viable then finish and if it's truly not worth it then i will move it

 

[Laxpras]

Meh I'll just do it. Implemented all changes except for your last comment Lcass4919 because Deo-S is the only common thing that outspeeds it, and its not worth its own category. Idk what you're talking about with torn-t, it is slower and gets OHKOd

ready for GP

 

[Lcass4919]

Meh I'll just do it. Implemented all changes except for your last comment Lcass4919 because Deo-S is the only common thing that outspeeds it, and its not worth its own category. Idk what you're talking about with torn-t, it is slower and gets OHKOd

ready for GP

torn has 121 speed, which is 1 above zams 120. :P

 

[Laxpras]

torn has 121 speed, which is 1 above zams 120. :P

o i wwas thinking of regular torn my bad! but i dont think ive ever seen that in a legit game so still

 

[Lcass4919]

o i wwas thinking of regular torn my bad! but i dont think ive ever seen that in a legit game so still

really? its a pretty common noguard user. but fair enough. its mid b in viability rankings. so idk,

 

[Heavyweapons Mann]

For this analysis, instead of Alakazamite for the Mega Stone, it's actually Alakazite.

 

[Sobi]

amcheck!

Hide

[OVERVIEW]

Alakazam possesses a blazing Speed stat that allows it to outspeed the likes of Choice Scarf Tyranitar, giving it a great matchup against offense. Its Speed combined with strong high Special Attack and good movepool allows Alakazam to revenge kill well and act as a late-game [Add Hyphen] slweeper. However, its Psychic typing does not provide it with the best STAB move, and leaves it vulnerable to Pursuit trapping. Additionally, its weak defenses leave it vulnerable to being revenge killed by priority or Choice Scarf foes. Alakazam has competition from other Sheer Force threats like Gengar, Azelf, [AC] and Thundurus-T. Azelf has a niche over Alakazam due to its specifically has a usable attacking stat, allowing it to run mixed sets though Alakazam is faster and has higher Special Attack. ; however, it is slower with a weaker special attacking stat. Overall, it is a strong threat that outspeeds and overpowers much of the AAA metagame.

[SET]
name: Sheer Force Attacker
move 1: Psychic
move 2: Focus Blast
move 3: Shadow Ball
move 4: Energy Ball / Encore
item: Life Orb
ability: Sheer Force
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Psychic provides Alakazam with a powerful Sheer Force-boosted STAB move that can OHKO many threats in the metagame, such as Thundurus and even a physically defensive Zapdos after prior Stealth Rock damage. Focus Blast hits dark and steel type Dark- and Steel-type foes that can switch into Psychic, such as Tyranitar and Ferrothorn. Shadow Ball hits psychic and ghost type Psychic- and Ghost-type foes such as Latios and Doublade, both of which are OHKOed by the move. which it OHKOs. Energy Ball is a coverage move for threats like Manaphy and Suicune, OHKOing Manaphy and 2HKOing Suicune, [RC] if it doesn't have a Calm Mind boost up. Encore is an option that beats foes that will attempt to set up, most notably Suicune opponents who attempt setting up, notably Suicune. Poison heal mons that rely on protect are forced out as well [I don't understand this part; maybe change it to "It also forces out Poison Heal mons that rely on Protect to recover their health"]


Set Details
========

EVs are set to maximize Speed and Special Attack. A Timid nature lets Alakazam outspeed much of the metagame, and even avoid [If this is what you meant?] Choice Scarf Tyranitar's Pursuit. Sheer Force boosts all of the power of Alakazam's moves, further enhancing its power. Life Orb works perfectly with Sheer Force by increasing Alakazam's damage output without the recoil damage.

Usage Tips

========
[add space]
Alakazam can be used efficiently as a revenge killer, unless opponents the foe is scarfed or has strong priority. are scarfed of have strong priority. Players You should utilize Volt Switch or U-turn to get Alakazam safely into play as Alakazam's poor defenses prevent it from being able to switch into attacks. Hazard stacking removes even more switch-in opportunities for the foe opponent. This is especially helpful against checks like RegenVest Goodra and Manaphy if Energy Ball is foregone. Users You must beware of Pursuit threats such as Escavalier and Scizor as they are not taken down by Focus Blast. Players You should also be cautious of priority users such as Gale Wing Braviary and Entei, as they revenge kill Alakazam. Lastly, Alakazam should only be sent out knowing it will be able to KO the foe, as it is unlikely that it will live an attack.

Team Options
========

Magnet Pull users such as Infernape and Ampharos can remove RegenVest Escavalier and Scizor from play, both of which will otherwise Pursuit trap Alakazam. [AP] They also provide U-turn/ and Volt Switch support. Strong physical attackers like Lucario and Heracross are recommended to beat special walls like Chansey. Additionally, Pursuit users such as Adaptability Tyranitar can trap counters like Mew and Meloetta. Normalize Gengar with Mean Look and Skill Swap can trap and beat similar counters like Chansey and Meloetta. Sheer Gengar has nearly identical counters as Alakazam, making Normalize Gengar a great lure. A counter to Gale Wings and -ate Speed users is necessary; [Comma -> Semi-colon] Doublade and Skarmory fill this role well. Skarmory, Ferrothorn, [AC] and Chesnaught offer hazard support, making it easier for Alakazam to sweep. Flash Fire Forretress is a great teammate as it tanks most physical hits, and can provide Rapid Spin and Volt Switch support. Additionally, it can check many priority users, and can provide hazard support of its own. A mixed Genesect set has good synergy with Alakazam, as it can lure in things like Manaphy or Meloetta, and it can U-turn into Alakazam to either give Alakazam it a good matchup, or provide solid damage to a main check. Additionally, Flamethrower can take out common Alakazam counters.

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

Download or Competitive can be used with Alakazite to get a strong and fast Mega Evolution with a immediate boost upon switching in on a switch in. Signal Beam is an option that hits Bulletproof Dark-types, but fails to OHKO Tyranitar. Substitute can be used when predicting a foe switching out 's switchout.

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

**RegenVest Users**: RegenVest Meloetta easily takes any of Alakazam's moves, and can either KO it with Knock Off, or get momentum with U-turn. Escavalier, Scizor, Goodra, and Genesect can all switch into Alakazam if it is not running Fire Punch. Escavalier and Scizor can then Pursuit trap Alakazam, ensuring it will be KOed.

**Special Defensive Walls**: Regenerator, /Magic Bounce, or /Unaware Chansey and Poison Heal Manidibuzz are examples of Pokemon that can switch in and take on Alakazam. Chansey can stall it out with Seismic Toss and Wish. Mandibuzz immediately threatens Alakazam with Knock Off and U-turn.

**Priority Users**: Gale Wings users like Skarmory and Braviary easily revenge kill Alakazam, and Skarmory can even switch into a Psychic. Extreme Speed users like Lucario and Entei also revenge kill Alakazam.

**Choice Scarf Users**: When holding a Choice Scarf, Pokemon like Victini or Krookodile can outspeed and OHKO Alakazam with Choice Scarf, and Krookodile can even Pursuit traps it.

**Bulletproof Users**: With a Focus Blast, Energy Ball, [AC] and Psychic immunity, Bulletproof Dark-types are a rare but serious threat to Alakazam. Bulletproof Tyranitar will Pursuit trap Alakazam, while Bulletproof Choice Scarf Krookodile will outspeed and also Pursuit trap it. Bulletproof Ferrothorn and Excadrill are less common, but still pose a threat due to their immunities and resists.

There were so many instances of me just removing capitals or adding capitals; to make it much more easier for the checker, when your analysis is ready to be GP checked, do look at the Grammar Standards because most of us don't like to constantly fix Choice Scarf and Dark-type!

 

[Laxpras]

amcheck!

Hide

[OVERVIEW]

Alakazam possesses a blazing Speed stat that allows it to outspeed the likes of Choice Scarf Tyranitar, giving it a great matchup against offense. Its Speed combined with strong high Special Attack and good movepool allows Alakazam to revenge kill well and act as a late-game [Add Hyphen] slweeper. However, its Psychic typing does not provide it with the best STAB move, and leaves it vulnerable to Pursuit trapping. Additionally, its weak defenses leave it vulnerable to being revenge killed by priority or Choice Scarf foes. Alakazam has competition from other Sheer Force threats like Gengar, Azelf, [AC] and Thundurus-T. Azelf has a niche over Alakazam due to its specifically has a usable attacking stat, allowing it to run mixed sets though Alakazam is faster and has higher Special Attack. ; however, it is slower with a weaker special attacking stat. Overall, it is a strong threat that outspeeds and overpowers much of the AAA metagame.

[SET]
name: Sheer Force Attacker
move 1: Psychic
move 2: Focus Blast
move 3: Shadow Ball
move 4: Energy Ball / Encore
item: Life Orb
ability: Sheer Force
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Psychic provides Alakazam with a powerful Sheer Force-boosted STAB move that can OHKO many threats in the metagame, such as Thundurus and even a physically defensive Zapdos after prior Stealth Rock damage. Focus Blast hits dark and steel type Dark- and Steel-type foes that can switch into Psychic, such as Tyranitar and Ferrothorn. Shadow Ball hits psychic and ghost type Psychic- and Ghost-type foes such as Latios and Doublade, both of which are OHKOed by the move. which it OHKOs. Energy Ball is a coverage move for threats like Manaphy and Suicune, OHKOing Manaphy and 2HKOing Suicune, [RC] if it doesn't have a Calm Mind boost up. Encore is an option that beats foes that will attempt to set up, most notably Suicune opponents who attempt setting up, notably Suicune. Poison heal mons that rely on protect are forced out as well [I don't understand this part; maybe change it to "It also forces out Poison Heal mons that rely on Protect to recover their health"]


Set Details
========

EVs are set to maximize Speed and Special Attack. A Timid nature lets Alakazam outspeed much of the metagame, and even avoid [If this is what you meant?] Choice Scarf Tyranitar's Pursuit. Sheer Force boosts all of the power of Alakazam's moves, further enhancing its power. Life Orb works perfectly with Sheer Force by increasing Alakazam's damage output without the recoil damage.

Usage Tips

========
[add space]
Alakazam can be used efficiently as a revenge killer, unless opponents the foe is scarfed or has strong priority. are scarfed of have strong priority. Players You should utilize Volt Switch or U-turn to get Alakazam safely into play as Alakazam's poor defenses prevent it from being able to switch into attacks. Hazard stacking removes even more switch-in opportunities for the foe opponent. This is especially helpful against checks like RegenVest Goodra and Manaphy if Energy Ball is foregone. Users You must beware of Pursuit threats such as Escavalier and Scizor as they are not taken down by Focus Blast. Players You should also be cautious of priority users such as Gale Wing Braviary and Entei, as they revenge kill Alakazam. Lastly, Alakazam should only be sent out knowing it will be able to KO the foe, as it is unlikely that it will live an attack.

Team Options
========

Magnet Pull users such as Infernape and Ampharos can remove RegenVest Escavalier and Scizor from play, both of which will otherwise Pursuit trap Alakazam. [AP] They also provide U-turn/ and Volt Switch support. Strong physical attackers like Lucario and Heracross are recommended to beat special walls like Chansey. Additionally, Pursuit users such as Adaptability Tyranitar can trap counters like Mew and Meloetta. Normalize Gengar with Mean Look and Skill Swap can trap and beat similar counters like Chansey and Meloetta. Sheer Gengar has nearly identical counters as Alakazam, making Normalize Gengar a great lure. A counter to Gale Wings and -ate Speed users is necessary; [Comma -> Semi-colon] Doublade and Skarmory fill this role well. Skarmory, Ferrothorn, [AC] and Chesnaught offer hazard support, making it easier for Alakazam to sweep. Flash Fire Forretress is a great teammate as it tanks most physical hits, and can provide Rapid Spin and Volt Switch support. Additionally, it can check many priority users, and can provide hazard support of its own. A mixed Genesect set has good synergy with Alakazam, as it can lure in things like Manaphy or Meloetta, and it can U-turn into Alakazam to either give Alakazam it a good matchup, or provide solid damage to a main check. Additionally, Flamethrower can take out common Alakazam counters.

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

Download or Competitive can be used with Alakazite to get a strong and fast Mega Evolution with a immediate boost upon switching in on a switch in. Signal Beam is an option that hits Bulletproof Dark-types, but fails to OHKO Tyranitar. Substitute can be used when predicting a foe switching out 's switchout.

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

**RegenVest Users**: RegenVest Meloetta easily takes any of Alakazam's moves, and can either KO it with Knock Off, or get momentum with U-turn. Escavalier, Scizor, Goodra, and Genesect can all switch into Alakazam if it is not running Fire Punch. Escavalier and Scizor can then Pursuit trap Alakazam, ensuring it will be KOed.

**Special Defensive Walls**: Regenerator, /Magic Bounce, or /Unaware Chansey and Poison Heal Manidibuzz are examples of Pokemon that can switch in and take on Alakazam. Chansey can stall it out with Seismic Toss and Wish. Mandibuzz immediately threatens Alakazam with Knock Off and U-turn.

**Priority Users**: Gale Wings users like Skarmory and Braviary easily revenge kill Alakazam, and Skarmory can even switch into a Psychic. Extreme Speed users like Lucario and Entei also revenge kill Alakazam.

**Choice Scarf Users**: When holding a Choice Scarf, Pokemon like Victini or Krookodile can outspeed and OHKO Alakazam with Choice Scarf, and Krookodile can even Pursuit traps it.

**Bulletproof Users**: With a Focus Blast, Energy Ball, [AC] and Psychic immunity, Bulletproof Dark-types are a rare but serious threat to Alakazam. Bulletproof Tyranitar will Pursuit trap Alakazam, while Bulletproof Choice Scarf Krookodile will outspeed and also Pursuit trap it. Bulletproof Ferrothorn and Excadrill are less common, but still pose a threat due to their immunities and resists.

There were so many instances of me just removing capitals or adding capitals; to make it much more easier for the checker, when your analysis is ready to be GP checked, do look at the Grammar Standards because most of us don't like to constantly fix Choice Scarf and Dark-type!

Sorry about that, implemented all changes

 

[Sobi]

Oo should've made this more clear but this isn't gp 1/2, it was an amateur check!

 

[Laxpras]

o ok

 

[Empress]

Add Remove Comment

Here ya go

[OVERVIEW]

Alakazam possesses a blazing Speed stat that allows it to outspeed the likes of Pokemon like (either do this or add another example) Choice Scarf Tyranitar, giving it a great matchup against offense. Its Speed combined with high Special Attack and a good movepool allows Alakazam to revenge kill well and act as a late-game sweeper. However, its Psychic typing does not provide it with the best STAB move, (RC) and leaves it vulnerable to Pursuit trapping. Additionally, its weak defenses leave it vulnerable susceptible (repetition) to being revenge killed by priority or Choice Scarf foes users. Alakazam has also faces competition from other Sheer Force threats like Gengar, Azelf, and Thundurus-T. Azelf has a niche over Alakazam due to its usable attacking Attack stat, allowing it to run mixed sets, (AC) though Alakazam is faster and has higher Special Attack. Overall, Alakazam is a strong threat that outspeeds and overpowers much of the AAA metagame. (adds nothing new)

[SET]
name: Sheer Force Attacker
move 1: Psychic
move 2: Focus Blast
move 3: Shadow Ball
move 4: Energy Ball / Encore
item: Life Orb
ability: Sheer Force
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Psychic provides Alakazam with a powerful Sheer Force-boosted STAB move that can OHKO many threats in the metagame, such as Thundurus and even a physically defensive Zapdos after prior Stealth Rock damage. Focus Blast hits Dark- and Steel-type foes that can switch into Psychic, such as Tyranitar and Ferrothorn. Shadow Ball hits Psychic- and Ghost-type foes such as Latios and Doublade, both of which are OHKOed by the move. (I really wanna change this to an active-voice verb, but it's not a big deal) Energy Ball is a coverage move for threats like Manaphy and Suicune, OHKOing Manaphy and 2HKOing Suicune if it doesn't have a Calm Mind boost up. Encore is an option that beats foes that will attempt to set up, most notably Suicune. It also forces out Poison Heal mons users that rely on Protect to recover their health. (period)


Set Details
========

EVs are set to maximize Speed and Special Attack. A Timid nature lets Alakazam outspeed much of the metagame, even avoid most notably Choice Scarf Tyranitar's. Sheer Force boosts the power of each of Alakazam's moves. Life Orb works perfectly with Sheer Force by increasing Alakazam's damage output without the recoil damage.

Usage Tips
(remove line break)
========

Alakazam can be used efficiently as a revenge killer, unless the foe is scarfed or has Choice Scarf strong priority. You should utilize Volt Switch or U-turn to get Alakazam safely into play, (AC) as Alakazam's poor defenses prevent it from being able to switch into attacks. Hazard Entry hazard stacking removes even more switch-in opportunities for the foe to switch in. This is especially helpful against checks like RegenVest Goodra and Manaphy if Energy Ball is foregone. You must beware of Pursuit threats such as Escavalier and Scizor, (AC) as they are not taken down by Focus Blast. You should also be cautious of priority users such as Gale Wing Braviary and Entei, as they revenge kill Alakazam. Lastly, Alakazam should only be sent out knowing it will be able to KO the foe, as it is unlikely that it will live survive an attack.

Team Options
========

Magnet Pull users such as Infernape and Ampharos can remove RegenVest Escavalier and Scizor from play, both of which will would otherwise Pursuit trap Alakazam. They These two (unless it's standard among Magnet Pull users to do so) also provide U-turn and Volt Switch support. Strong physical attackers like Lucario and Heracross are recommended to beat special walls like Chansey. Additionally, Pursuit users such as Adaptability Tyranitar can trap counters like Mew and Meloetta. Normalize Gengar with Mean Look and Skill Swap can trap and beat similar counters like Chansey and Meloetta. (I really hate that set lol; used to see it in BH all the time) Sheer Force Gengar has nearly identical counters as Alakazam, making Normalize Gengar a great lure. A counter to Gale Wings and -ate Extreme Speed users is necessary; Doublade and Skarmory fill this role well. Skarmory, Ferrothorn, and Chesnaught offer entry hazard support, making it easier for Alakazam to sweep. Flash Fire Forretress is a great teammate, (AC) as it tanks most physical hits, (RC) and can provide Rapid Spin and Volt Switch support. Additionally, it can check many priority users, (RC) and can provide hazard support of its own. A mixed Genesect set has good synergy with Alakazam, as it can lure in things like Manaphy or Meloetta, and it can pivot U-turn into Alakazam with U-turn to either give it a good matchup, (RC) or provide solid damage to a main check. Additionally, Flamethrower can take out common Alakazam counters.

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

Download or Competitive can be used with Alakazite to get a strong and fast Mega Evolution with a immediate boost upon switching inon a switch in. Signal Beam is an option that hits Bulletproof Dark-types, but it fails to OHKO Tyranitar. Substitute can be used when predicting a foe switching out's switchout.

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

**RegenVest Users**: RegenVest Meloetta easily takes any of Alakazam's moves, (RC) and can either (OH?)KO it with Knock Off, (RC) or get momentum with U-turn. Escavalier, Scizor, Goodra, and Genesect can all switch into Alakazam if it is not running Fire Punch. Escavalier and Scizor can then Pursuit trap Alakazam, ensuring it will be (OH?)KOed.

**Special Defensive Walls**: Regenerator, /Magic Bounce, or /Unaware Chansey and Poison Heal Manidibuzz are examples of Pokemon that can switch in and take on Alakazam. Chansey can stall it out with Seismic Toss and Wish.(change to comma), and Mandibuzz immediately threatens Alakazam with Knock Off and U-turn.

**Priority Users**: Extreme Speed users like Lucario and Entei and Gale Wings users like Skarmory and Braviary easily revenge kill Alakazam, and Skarmory can even switch into a Psychic. Extreme Speed users like Lucario and Entei also revenge kill Alakazam.

**Choice Scarf Users**: When holding a Choice Scarf, Pokemon like Victini or Krookodile can outspeed and OHKO Alakazam with Choice Scarf, and Krookodile can even Pursuit traps it.

**Bulletproof Users**: With a immunities to Focus Blast, Energy Ball, and Psychic immunity, Bulletproof Dark-types are a rare but serious threats to Alakazam. Bulletproof Tyranitar will Pursuit trap Alakazam, while Bulletproof Choice Scarf Krookodile will outspeed and also Pursuit trap it. Bulletproof Ferrothorn and Excadrill are less common, (RC) but still pose a threat due to their immunities and resistances. (to what, exactly?)

GP 1/2

 

[Laxpras]

Alright I believe I got everything

 

[Lumari]

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

check

[OVERVIEW]

Alakazam possesses a blazing Speed stat that allows it to outspeed the likes of Pokemon such as Choice Scarf Tyranitar. Its Speed combined with high Special Attack and a good movepool allows Alakazam to revenge kill well and act as a late-game sweeper. However, its Psychic typing does not provide it with the best STAB move and leaves it vulnerable to Pursuit trapping. Additionally, its weak defenses leave it susceptible to being revenge killed by priority or Choice Scarf foes users. Alakazam also faces competition from other Sheer Force threats like Gengar, Azelf, and Thundurus-T. Azelf has a niche over Alakazam due to its usable Attack stat, allowing it to run mixed sets, though Alakazam is faster and has higher Special Attack. Overall, Alakazam is a strong threat that outspeeds and overpowers much of the AAA metagame, giving it a great matchup against offensive teams.

[SET]
name: Sheer Force Attacker
move 1: Psychic
move 2: Focus Blast
move 3: Shadow Ball
move 4: Energy Ball / Encore
item: Life Orb
ability: Sheer Force
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Psychic provides Alakazam with a powerful Sheer Force-boosted STAB move that can OHKO many threats in the metagame, such as Thundurus and even a physically defensive Zapdos after prior Stealth Rock damage. Focus Blast hits Dark- and Steel-type foes that can switch into Psychic, such as Tyranitar and Ferrothorn. Shadow Ball hits Psychic- and Ghost-type foes such as Latios and Doublade, OHKOing both of them. Energy Ball is a coverage move for threats like Manaphy and Suicune, OHKOing Manaphy the former and 2HKOing Suicune the latter if it doesn't have a Calm Mind boost up. Encore is an option that beats shuts down foes that will attempt to set up, most notably Suicune. It also forces out Poison Heal users that rely on Protect to recover their health.


Set Details
========

EVs are set to maximize Speed and Special Attack. A Timid nature lets Alakazam outspeed much of the metagame, most notably Choice Scarf Tyranitar's Pursuit. Sheer Force boosts the power of each of Alakazam's moves. Life Orb works perfectly with Sheer Force by increasing Alakazam's damage output without the recoil damage.

Usage Tips
========

Alakazam can be used efficiently as a revenge killer, unless the foe has a Choice Scarf or strong priority. You should utilize Volt Switch or U-turn to get Alakazam safely into play, as Alakazam's poor defenses prevent it from being able to switch into attacks. Entry hazards remove even more switch-in limit the foe's opportunities for the foe to switch in even more. This is especially helpful against checks like RegenVest Goodra and Manaphy if Energy Ball is foregone. You must beware of Pursuit threats such as Escavalier and Scizor, as they are not taken down by Focus Blast. You should also be cautious of priority users such as Gale Wing Wings Braviary and Entei, as they revenge kill Alakazam. Lastly, Alakazam should only be sent out knowing it will be able to KO the foe, as it is unlikely that it will survive an attack.

Team Options
========

Magnet Pull users such as Infernape and Ampharos can remove RegenVest Escavalier and Scizor from play, both of which would otherwise Pursuit trap Alakazam. These two also provide U-turn and Volt Switch support. Strong physical attackers like Lucario and Heracross are recommended to beat special walls like Chansey. Additionally, Pursuit users such as Adaptability Tyranitar can trap counters like Mew and Meloetta. Normalize Gengar with Mean Look and Skill Swap can trap and beat similar counters like Chansey and Meloetta. Sheer Force Gengar has nearly identical counters as Alakazam, making Normalize Gengar a great lure. A counter to Gale Wings and -ate Extreme Speed users is necessary; Doublade and Skarmory fill this role well. Skarmory, Ferrothorn, and Chesnaught offer entry hazard support, making it easier for Alakazam to sweep. Flash Fire Forretress is a great teammate, as it tanks most physical hits and provides Rapid Spin and Volt Switch support. Additionally, it can check many priority users (RC) and can provide hazard support of its own. A mixed Genesect set has good synergy with Alakazam, as it can lure in things threats like Manaphy or and Meloetta, and it can pivot into Alakazam with U-turn to either give it a good matchup or provide solid damage to a main check. Additionally, Flamethrower can take out common Alakazam counters.

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

Download or Competitive can be used with Alakazite to get a strong and fast Mega Evolution with a immediate boost on a switch in. Signal Beam is an option that hits Bulletproof Dark-types, but it fails to OHKO Tyranitar. Substitute can be used when predicting a foe's switch(space)out.

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

**RegenVest Users**: RegenVest Meloetta easily takes any of Alakazam's moves and can either OHKO it with Knock Off or get momentum with U-turn. Escavalier, Scizor, Goodra, and Genesect can all switch into Alakazam if it is not running Fire Punch. Escavalier and Scizor can then Pursuit trap Alakazam, ensuring it will be OHKOed.

**Special Defensive Walls**: Regenerator, (comma) Magic Bounce, (comma) or Unaware Chansey and Poison Heal Manidibuzz Mandibuzz are examples of Pokemon that can switch in and take on Alakazam. Chansey can stall it out with Seismic Toss and Wish, and Mandibuzz immediately threatens Alakazam with Knock Off and U-turn.

**Priority Users**: Extreme Speed users like Lucario and Entei and Gale Wings users like Skarmory and Braviary easily revenge kill Alakazam, and Skarmory can even switch into a Psychic.

**Choice Scarf Users**: When holding a Choice Scarf, Pokemon like Victini or Krookodile can outspeed and OHKO Alakazam, and Krookodile can even Pursuit traps it.

**Bulletproof Users**: With immunities to Focus Blast, Energy Ball, and Psychic, Bulletproof Dark-types are rare but serious threats to Alakazam. Bulletproof Tyranitar will Pursuit trap Alakazam, while Bulletproof Choice Scarf Krookodile will outspeed and also Pursuit trap it. Bulletproof Ferrothorn and Excadrill are less common(space)but still pose a threat due to their immunities and resistances to Psychic.