PU Alolan Raticate

UberSkitty

Assist Skitty was too broken for NDUbers
is a Site Content Manageris a Forum Moderatoris a Community Contributoris a Contributor to Smogon
QC: Yogurt / Megazard / MotherOfMany
GP: Marthaaaaaa / Fireflame



uploaded -zard

[OVERVIEW]

With access to Hustle and Swords Dance along with a nice offensive typing, Alolan Raticate makes a decent offensive Pokemon that can serve as a setup sweeper or wallbreaker. This allows it to do well against both offensive and defensive teams, especially if it manages to set up a Swords Dance, and it also has access to utility in the form of Knock Off. Sadly, Alolan Raticate has a mediocre Speed stat and meager defenses, which can hold it back at times when it is trying to set up and sweep, although having access to Sucker Punch helps against faster foes. While Hustle is one of the large reasons that Alolan Raticate is viable at all, the accuracy drop can also screw it over at times, making it a high-risk high-reward Pokemon. Fighting-types, which are very common in the metagame, are a huge problem for Alolan Raticate, as they can OHKO it with their priority moves if they don't already outspeed it. Furthermore, Alolan Raticate faces a lot of competition from Absol and Normal-types such as Zangoose that also have access to Swords Dance, extra coverage, and similar Attack stats without the accuracy drop of Hustle. But what sets Alolan Raticate apart from them is its access to multiple STAB options, powerful priority, and a Z-Move that makes it nearly impossible to switch into.

[SET]
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Double-Edge
move 3: Knock Off
move 4: Sucker Punch
item: Normalium Z / Darkinium Z
ability: Hustle
nature: Jolly / Adamant
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

Moves
========

Swords Dance allows Alolan Raticate to set up and sweep; at +2 it is able to OHKO a large amount of the tier. Double-Edge is a powerful Normal-type STAB move for Alolan Raticate, having recoil as its only setback. Knock Off provides a second STAB move that hits Ghost-types such as Sableye and Gourgeist-XL, which are immune to Double-Edge. It also provides the secondary effect of removing foes' items, most notably from Eviolite and Choice-item users like Ferroseed and Meprit. Sucker Punch is a decently strong STAB priority move that allows Alolan Raticate to hit faster Pokemon such as Lilligant, Oricorio-G, and Alolan Raichu. However, it is important to note that the foe can take advantage of Sucker Punch and use the turn to set up, heal themselves, or inflict status upon Alolan Raticate. Pursuit can be run over Knock Off to trap Pokemon such as Mesprit along with the nice add-on that it can't miss if the foe switches.

Set Details
========

252 Attack and 252 Speed EVs allow Alolan Raticate to be as strong and fast as possible, maximizing its sweeping and wallbreaking abilities. Hustle boosts Alolan Raticate's Attack, letting it do as much damage as possible at the risk of missing attacks. A Jolly nature achieves notable Speed benchmarks, allowing Alolan Raticate to outspeed neutral-natured maximum Speed Skuntank and Qwilfish as well as base 80s such as Mesprit and Shiftry. Adamant nature allows Alolan Raticate to have maximum damage output, making it easier to break through bulkier foes. Both Z-Crystals can help break through different walls; Normalium Z helps with Fairy-, Fighting-, and Dark-types such as Granbull, Throh, and Alolan Persian, on top of having higher Base Power, while Darkinium Z helps against Ghost-, Rock-, and Steel-types such as Colbur Berry Gourgeist-XL, Carracosta, and Ferroseed.

Usage Tips
========

Alolan Raticate is best used mid- or late-game when all of its counters and certain walls have been weakened if not KOed. It mainly relies on Swords Dance when facing defensively oriented teams in order to break through opposing walls more easily; however, it does not need to always depend on Swords Dance to do well, as it often doesn't need the Attack boost to break through offensively oriented teams. Alolan Raticate does not always need to serve as a sweeper and can be used to support the rest of its team by breaking down foes and hitting them hard before bringing out a dedicated sweeper. Try to get Alolan Raticate onto the field against Pokemon like Sableye that can do very little damage to it in return and set up Swords Dance, as they are forced to switch out or be used as setup fodder if they try to stay in. Be wary of Pokemon such as Mesprit, however, as while Alolan Raticate is immune to its STAB moves, it can still run coverage moves such as Dazzling Gleam, and even U-turn does a good amount of damage to Alolan Raticate. While the Z-Moves are mainly to help Alolan Raticate break through bulkier Pokemon, they can also be used to ensure a hit, as they ignore the accuracy drop from Hustle while still keeping the Attack boost.

Team Options
========

Mesprit makes a particularly good teammate for Alolan Raticate, as it can switch into Fighting-type attacks, set up Stealth Rock to weaken Pokemon for it, get off a slow U-turn to get it onto the field, and use Healing Wish if Alolan Raticate is heavily damaged or afflicted with status. Qwilfish and Weezing also make good teammates, as they can similarly switch into Fighting-type attacks while setting up hazards in the form of Toxic Spikes, along with Spikes in Qwilfish’s case, which help Alolan Raticate more easily break through threats later on. They can also hold Rocky Helmet in order to further whittle Fighting-types like Hitmonchan and Primeape down, putting them in range to be KOed by +2 Sucker Punch. Since Alolan Raticate can be slow at times, speed control is nice. Noteworthy teammates include Granbull, Ferroseed, and Qwilfish. All of these Pokemon have access to Thunder Wave, allowing Alolan Raticate to outspeed otherwise faster threats. Wallbreakers such as Magmortar and Choice Specs Pyroar can help weaken or take out certain walls before Alolan Raticate comes in to set up and sweep. Slow pivots such as Lanturn and the previously mentioned Mesprit can take a hit before getting Alolan Raticate on the field practically for free. Cleaners such as Archeops and Choice Scarf Primeape benefit from Alolan Raticate's ability to break down the opponent's walls, such as Regirock and Weezing, so that they can come in late-game and clean up the match.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]

Other Options
=============

Quick Attack is a more reliable alternative to Sucker Punch at the cost of power and the ability to hit Ghost-types such as Oricorio-G. Alolan Raticate can be run as an all-out attacker with Pursuit or Quick Attack instead of Swords Dance. U-turn is another option, although the potential for the attack to miss, meaning that Alolan Raticate stays in, can often be less reliable than simply switching. Return can be run as Alolan Raticate’s Normal-type STAB move, as it has no recoil with the setback of having a noticeably lower damage output. Crunch can replace Knock Off as Alolan Raticate's Dark-type STAB move, as it can deal more damage to Z-Crystal users such as Musharna or Colbur Berry holders such as Gourgeist-XL, along with having a stronger Z-Move. Substitute can be used to potentially take more hits and block status conditions, but Alolan Raticate does not appreciate the HP loss and can make much better use overall of its moveslots. If you already have the Z-Crystal slot taken on your team, Life Orb is Alolan Raticate’s best alternative item, boosting the power of all its moves. Lum Berry is another option, allowing Alolan Raticate to better deal with Lilligant's Sleep Powder and Colbur Berry Gourgeist-XL's Will-O-Wisp. Choice Scarf can be run with Switcheroo and U-turn to allow Alolan Raticate to lure otherwise faster Pokemon such as Archeops and Pyroar, but it makes Alolan Raticate somewhat underwhelming against defensive teams and much easier for them to handle, along with not being the most reliable revenge killer due to Hustle. A similar set can be run with Choice Band but as an immediate wallbreaker, although being locked into a single move can make Alolan Raticate much easier to check even with the extra power.

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

**Fighting-types**: Fighting-types such as Hitmonchan and Gurdurr OHKO Alolan Raticate with Mach Punch and can easily take either of Alolan Raticate’s priority moves. Primeape and Passimian outspeed Alolan Raticate and can take a +2 Sucker Punch, OHKOing it in return with Close Combat.

**Physically Defensive Pokemon**: If Alolan Raticate lacks the proper Z-Move to use against them, physically bulky Pokemon such as Ferroseed, defensive Carracosta, and defensive Mawile can wear Alolan Raticate down with a combination of Double-Edge’s recoil, Leech Seed, and status conditions and use Alolan Raticate as setup fodder for Spikes or Stealth Rock. However, this can start mind games where Alolan Raticate can potentially take advantage of these turns to set up more Swords Dances.

**Status Conditions**: Bulkier Pokemon such as Regirock, Granbull, and Colbur Berry Gourgeist-XL can take a hit and cripple Alolan Raticate with Thunder Wave or Will-O-Wisp, while faster Pokemon such as Lilligant and Jynx can outspeed it and put Alolan Raticate to sleep without fear of Sucker Punch, but they must be wary of Quick Attack.

**Revenge Killers**: Since Alolan Raticate is not too hard to whittle down, it is not too difficult to revenge kill with faster Pokemon such as Silvally-Fairy and Kabutops. However, Sucker Punch can threaten them. A strong and faster priority user, such as Kangaskhan or Floatzel, can sometimes be a safer way to take Alolan Raticate out without having to fear Sucker Punch.
 
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yogi

I did not succumb...
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QC: ? / ? / ?
GP: ? / ?



[OVERVIEW]

  • With access to Hustle and Swords Dance, along with a nice offensive typing, Raticate-Alola can serve as a decent setup sweeper, or even a wallbreaker at times.
  • It has a mediocre Speed stat and defenses, which can be a setback at times when it is trying to set up and sweep, although it has access to multiple priority moves to help against faster opponents. (makes it seem as it has access to multiple priority moves on one set)
  • While Hustle is one of the large reasons that Raticate-Alola is good at all, the accuracy drop can also screw it over at times, and ruin its chances at sweeping. (high risk high reward ability)
  • It faces a lot competition from Absol and Normal types such as Zangoose, who still have access to SD, along with some extra coverage, and have similar Attack stats without the accuracy drop of Hustle. However, Raticate-Alola has the nice advantage of having multiple STABs. (it also has the strongest priority move too out of the three)
  • Fighting types are a huge problem, which are very common in the meta.

[SET]
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Double Edge
move 3: Crunch
move 4: Sucker Punch / Quick Attack (I really think quick attack isn't worth a slash, I might talk to QC about this but sucker seem 99% better, move to OO)
item: Normalium Z / Darkinium Z
ability: Hustle
nature: Adamant / Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

  • Swords Dance allows Raticate-Alola to set up and sweep.
  • Double Edge stands as a powerful Normal type STAB for Raticate-Alola, with the setback of taking recoil.
  • Crunch provides it with a second STAB coverage that hits Ghost types that are immune to Double Edge such as Sableye and Gourgeist-XL.
  • Sucker Punch is a decently strong STAB priority that allows Raticate-Alola to hit faster Pokemon such as Lilligant and Raichu-Alola, however the opponent can take advantage of Sucker Punch and use the turn to set up or heal themselves, or status Raticate-Alola. (what is statusing and healing itself? ig lilli is the status mon)
  • Quick Attack is a more reliable alternative to Sucker Punch at the setbacks of less damage output and the inability to hit Ghost types such as Oricorio-Sensu. (move to OO)
  • I'd like pursuit to be talked about here, it's a decent user of it and something to note is that when an opponent switches pursuit cannot miss

Set Details
========

  • 252 Attack and 252 Speed, along with Hustle, allow Raticate-Alola to be as strong and fast as possible, maximizes its sweeping and wallbreaking ability. (mention specifically what hustle does, potentially make it a separate bullet point)
  • An Adamant nature allows for a maximum damage output, making it more easy to break through bulkier opponents.
  • Jolly allows Raticate-Alola to outspeed neutral max Speed Skuntank, Magmortar, Qwilfish, base 80s such as Mesprit and Shiftry, and Jolly max Speed Absol. (this is the first time ive said this, but I think you have too many examples, keep it to around 3 or 4 max, also mag is either slower than max speed when modest or it's timid)
  • Both Z Crystals can help break through different walls, as Normalium Z helps with Fairy, Fighting, and Dark types such as Granbull, Throh, and Persian-Alola, on top of have a larger base damage, while Darkinium Z helps against Ghost, Rock, and Steel types such as Colbur Gourgeist-XL, Carracosta, and Ferroseed.

Usage Tips
========

  • Raticate-Alola is best mid to late game, when all its walls and counters have been weakened, if not KOed. (but, you said it can wallbreak?)
  • Try to get Raticate-Alola onto the field against something like Sableye, who can do very little in return, and set up your Swords Dance as they are forced to switch out, or use the as set-up fodder if they try to stay in.
  • While the Z-moves are mainly to help Raticate-Alola break through bulkier Pokemon, but they can also be used to ensure a hit due to ignoring the accuracy drop from Hustle. (I want you to specifically mention that it also keeps the attack boost from hustle)
I feel as if you can add more to this, especially when everything up to this point is well explained, talk about its priority, etc

Team Options
========

  • Mesprit makes a particularly good teammate for Raticate-Alola as it can switch into Fighting type attacks, set up Stealth Rock to weaken things for it, get off a slow U-turn to get it onto the field, and Healing Wish if it was heavily damaged or statused throughout the battle. (healing wish also always gets it in for free)
  • Qwilfish and Weezing also make good teammates as they can similarly switch into Fighting type attacks while setting up hazards in the form of Toxic Spikes, and Spikes in Qwilfish’s case. (helps it break later on)
  • Since Raticate-Alola can be slow at times, Speed control is nice, so Thunder Wave users such as Granbull and Ferroseed can be good, along with making Qwilfish even better.
  • Wallbreakers such as Magmortar and Specs Pyroar can help weaken or take out the walls before Raticate-Alola comes in to set up and sweep.
  • Slow pivot users such as Lanturn And the previously mentioned Mesprit can take a hit before getting Raticate-Alola on the field practically for free.

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

  • Raticate-Alola can be ran as an All Out Attacker with U-turn instead of Swords Dance. (pivoting move that can miss can suck, so mention that)
  • Pursuit can be ran over Crunch to help trap things such as Mesprit and Mesprit, in which Darkinium Z is the preferable item as it supplies Raticate-Alola with a one time strong and reliable Dark type STAB. (you wouldn't use dark z with it, weak af. also move this to moves)
  • Return can be ran as Raticate-Alola’s Normal type STAB, with no recoil at the setback of a noticeably lower damage output.
  • If you already have the Z-Crystal slot taken on your team, Life Orb is Raticate-Alola’s best alternative item.
  • Quick attack here

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

**Fighting Types**: Fighting types such as Hitmonchan and Gurdurr OHKO with Mach Punch and take can easily take either of Raticate-Alola’s priority moves, similarly with Primeape who can outpseed and get off a Close Combat.

**Physically Defensive Pokemon**: If it lacks the proper Z-move to use against them, physically bulky Pokemon such as Granbull, Ferroseed, and Carracosta can wear Raticate-Alola down with Double Edge’s recoil, Leech Seed, or status conditions. However, this can start mind games with Raticate-Alola’s potentially taking advantage of these turns to set up more Swords Dances.

**Status Conditions**: Bulkier Pokemon such as Colbur Gourgeist-XL and Regirock can take a hit and cripple Raticate-Alola with Will-O-Wisp or Thunder Wave, while faster Pokemon such as Lilligant or Jynx can outspeed and put Sucker Punch Raticate-Alola to sleep, but must be wary of Quick Attack.

**Priority Users**: Since Raticate-Alola is not too hard to whittle down, it is similarly not too difficult to revenge kill with a strong priority user such as Kangaskhan or Floatzel, on top of the previously mentioned Mach Punch users. (any mention of Raticate-alola should be changed to Alolan Raticate btw)
I'm impressed, gjob! 1/3 QC
 

MZ

And now for something completely different
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[OVERVIEW]
  • With access to Hustle and Swords Dance, along with a nice offensive typing, Alolan Raticate can serve as a decent setup sweeper, or even a wallbreaker at times.
  • It has a mediocre Speed stat and defenses, which can be a setback at times when it is trying to set up and sweep, although having access to a priority move in Sucker Punch helps against faster opponents.
  • While Hustle is one of the large reasons that Alolan Raticate is good at all, its a high risk high reward since the accuracy drop can also screw it over at times, and ruin its chances at sweeping.
  • It faces a lot competition from Absol and Normal types such as Zangoose, who still have access to SD, along with some extra coverage, and have similar Attack stats without the accuracy drop of Hustle. However, Alolan Raticate has the nice advantage of having multiple STABs, along with the most powerful priority.
  • Fighting types are a huge problem, which are very common in the meta.
i just don't entirely know what this does from reading the overview, it'd help if there was more than 1 very quick generic bullet point just saying "sweeper or wallbreaker". don't need to add much, just a little bit explaining the point of rat

[SET]
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Double Edge
move 3: Crunch
move 4: Sucker Punch
item: Normalium Z / Darkinium Z
ability: Hustle
nature: Adamant / Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

Moves
========
  • Swords Dance allows Alolan Raticate to set up and sweep. and kill like the entire meta
  • Double Edge stands as a powerful Normal type STAB for Alolan Raticate, with the setback of taking recoil.
  • Crunch provides it with a second STAB coverage that hits Ghost types that are immune to Double Edge such as Sableye and Gourgeist-XL.
  • Sucker Punch is a decently strong STAB priority that allows Alolan Raticate to hit faster Pokemon such as Lilligant, Oricorio-Sensu, and Raichu-Alola, however the opponent can take advantage of Sucker Punch and use the turn to set up, heal themselves, or status Alolan Raticate.
  • Pursuit can be ran over Crunch to help trap things such as Mesprit and Mesprit, along with the nice add on that it can't miss the turn the opponent switches. also this is better on dark z sets, bc sucker is still a dark nuke

Set Details
========
  • 252 Attack and 252 Speed allows Alolan Raticate to be as strong and fast as possible, maximizes its sweeping and wallbreaking ability.
  • Hustle boosts Alolan Raticate's Attack, letting do as much damage as possible, although at the risk of missing your attacks.
  • An Adamant nature allows for a maximum damage output, making it more easy to break through bulkier opponents.
  • Jolly allows Alolan Raticate to outspeed neutral max Speed Skuntank, Qwilfish, and base 80s such as Mesprit and Shiftry.
  • Both Z Crystals can help break through different walls, as Normalium Z helps with Fairy, Fighting, and Dark types such as Granbull, Throh, and Persian-Alola, on top of have a larger base damage, while Darkinium Z helps against Ghost, Rock, and Steel types such as Colbur Gourgeist-XL, Carracosta, and Ferroseed.

Usage Tips
========
  • Alolan Raticate is best mid to late game, when all its counters and certain walls have been weakened, if not KOed.
  • Try to get Alolan Raticate onto the field against something like Sableye, who can do very little in return, and set up your Swords Dance as they are forced to switch out, or use the as set-up fodder if they try to stay in.
  • Be wary of Pokemon such as Mesprit, however, as while Alolan Raticate may be immune to its STAB, it can still run coverage such as Dazzling Gleam, and even U-turn does a good amount of damage.
  • While the Z-moves are mainly to help Alolan Raticate break through bulkier Pokemon, they can also be used to ensure a hit due to ignoring the accuracy drop from Hustle while still keeping the Attack boost.
  • Running Pursuit, on top of Sucker Punch, can leave many opposing offensive Pokemon such as Jynx and Alolan Raichu having to choose between which of the two Alolan Raticate will go for and whether they should attack or switch. this doesn't quite read like a usage tip, I'm just not clear what ur suggesting ppl do here
somth about when u do and don't need an sd, it's definitely one of those mons where some games u won't want to set up fsr and other games it's quite huge

Team Options
========
  • Mesprit makes a particularly good teammate for Alolan Raticate as it can switch into Fighting type attacks, set up Stealth Rock to weaken things for it, get off a slow U-turn to get it onto the field, and Healing Wish if it was heavily damaged or statused throughout the battle, along with being an alternative way to get Alolan Raticate onto the field.
  • Qwilfish and Weezing also make good teammates as they can similarly switch into Fighting type attacks while setting up hazards in the form of Toxic Spikes, and Spikes in Qwilfish’s case, which help Alolan Raticate more easily break through things later on.
  • Since Alolan Raticate can be slow at times, Speed control is nice, so Thunder Wave users such as Granbull and Ferroseed can be good, along with making Qwilfish even better.
  • Wallbreakers such as Magmortar and Specs Pyroar can help weaken or take out the walls before Alolan Raticate comes in to set up and sweep.
  • Slow pivot users such as Lanturn And the previously mentioned Mesprit can take a hit before getting Alolan Raticate on the field practically for free.
also helmet mons help chip fighters into +2 sucker range, even if u just add this onto the qwil/weezing bullet

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]

Other Options
=============
  • Quick Attack is a more reliable alternative to Sucker Punch, but at the setbacks of less power and the inability to hit Ghost types such as Oricorio-Sensu.
  • Alolan Raticate can be ran as an All Out Attacker with Pursuit or Quick Attack instead of Swords Dance, along with U-turn being another option, although the potential to miss the pivot, making it stay in, can often be less reliable than simply switching.
  • Return can be ran as Alolan Raticate’s Normal type STAB, with no recoil at the setback of a noticeably lower damage output.
  • If you already have the Z-Crystal slot taken on your team, Life Orb is Alolan Raticate’s best alternative item.
choice scarf needs a mention fsr, maybe CB too. U-turn needs a mention on those, maybe on an AoA set as well.

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

**Fighting Types**: Fighting types such as Hitmonchan and Gurdurr OHKO with Mach Punch and take can easily take either of Alolan Raticate’s priority moves, similarly with Primeape who can outpseed and get off a Close Combat. the grammar here is weird, might help if u split the primeape part into a 2nd sentence. not required, just suggesting a thing before GP gets to this

**Physically Defensive Pokemon**: If it *Raticate lacks the proper Z-move to use against them, physically bulky Pokemon such as Granbull, Ferroseed, and Carracosta can wear ALolan Raticate down with Double Edge’s recoil, Leech Seed, or status conditions. However, this can start mind games with Alolan Raticate’s potentially taking advantage of these turns to set up more Swords Dances.

**Status Conditions**: Bulkier Pokemon such as Colbur Gourgeist-XL and Regirock can take a hit and cripple Alolan Raticate with Will-O-Wisp or Thunder Wave, while faster Pokemon such as Lilligant or Jynx can outspeed and put Sucker Punch Alolan Raticate to sleep, but must be wary of Quick Attack.

**Priority Users**: Since Alolan Raticate is not too hard to whittle down, it is similarly not too difficult to revenge kill with a strong priority user such as Kangaskhan or Floatzel, on top of the previously mentioned Mach Punch users.
qcstamp.gif
2/3
 

ManOfMany

I can make anything real
is a Tiering Contributor
QC: Yogurt / Megazard / ?
GP: ? / ?



[OVERVIEW]

With access to Hustle and Swords Dance, along with a nice offensive typing, Alolan Raticate makes a decent offensive Pokemon that can serve as a setup sweeper or a wallbreaker. This allows it to do well against both offensive and defensive teams, especially if it manages to set up a Swords Dance. It sadly has a mediocre Speed stat and defenses, which can be a setback at times when it is trying to set up and sweep, although having access to a priority move in Sucker Punch helps against faster opponents. While Hustle is one of the large reasons that Alolan Raticate is good at all, its a high risk high reward move since the accuracy drop can also screw it over at times, and ruin its chances at sweeping (not just sweeping but also wallbreaking, you can just say the accuracy drop hinders it). It faces a lot competition from Absol and Normal types such as Zangoose, who still have access to SD, along with some extra coverage, and have similar Attack stats without the accuracy drop of Hustle. However, Alolan Raticate has the nice advantage of having multiple STABs, along with the most powerful priority mention it makes good use of Z-moves, which makes it nearly impossible to switch into. Fighting types are a huge problem too, especially since they often carry Mach Punch, which are very common in the meta. (I'd specify this sentence a little. Additionally, I feel like this part about Fighting-types would sound better if it was placed right after the Hustle sentence, just to have the overview end on a positive note :heart:)


[SET]
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Double Edge
move 3: Crunch
move 4: Sucker Punch
item: Normalium Z / Darkinium
ability: Hustle
nature: Adamant / Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

Moves
========

Swords Dance allows Alolan Raticate to set up and sweep, and allows it to OHKO a large amount of the tier. Double Edge stands as a powerful Normal type STAB for Alolan Raticate, with the setback of taking recoil. Crunch provides it with a second STAB coverage that hits Ghost types that are immune to Double Edge such as Sableye and Gourgeist-XL. Sucker Punch is a decently strong STAB priority that allows Alolan Raticate to hit faster Pokemon such as Lilligant, Oricorio-Sensu, and Raichu-Alola, however the opponent can take advantage of Sucker Punch and use the turn to set up, heal themselves, or status Alolan Raticate. Pursuit can be ran over Crunch to help trap things such as Mesprit and Mesprit, along with the nice add on that it can't miss the turn the opponent switches. This is best when using Darkinium Z, as it allows Z-Sucker Punch to serve as a one-time dependable Dark STAB. good

Set Details
========

252 Attack and 252 Speed allows Alolan Raticate to be as strong and fast as possible, maximizes its sweeping and wallbreaking ability. Hustle boosts Alolan Raticate's Attack, letting do as much damage as possible, although at the risk of missing your attacks. An Adamant nature allows for a maximum damage output, making it more easy to break through bulkier opponents. Jolly gains some notable outspeeds, such as allowing Alolan Raticate to outspeed neutral max Speed Skuntank, Qwilfish, and base 80s such as Mesprit and Shiftry. Both Z Crystals can help break through different walls, as Normalium Z helps with Fairy, Fighting, and Dark types such as Granbull, Throh, and Persian-Alola, on top of have a larger base damage, while Darkinium Z helps against Ghost, Rock, and Steel types such as Colbur Gourgeist-XL, Carracosta, and Ferroseed. good

Usage Tips
========

Alolan Raticate is best mid to late game, when all its counters and certain walls have been weakened, if not KOed. It mainly relies on Swords Dance when facing defensive oriented teams, in order to more easily break through their walls, but does not always depend on Swords Dance to do well, however, and often doesn't need the Attack boost to break through offensive oriented teams. Try to get Alolan Raticate onto the field against something like Sableye, who can do very little in return, and set up your Swords Dance as they are forced to switch out, or use the as set-up fodder if they try to stay in. Be wary of Pokemon such as Mesprit, however, as while Alolan Raticate may be immune to its STAB, it can still run coverage such as Dazzling Gleam, and even U-turn does a good amount of damage. While the Z-moves are mainly to help Alolan Raticate break through bulkier Pokemon, they can also be used to ensure a hit due to ignoring the accuracy drop from Hustle while still keeping the Attack boost. hmmm i'd definitely take a little less emphasis off placing Alolan Raticate solely as a late-game sweeper. While it can certainly do that, it shines in the wallbreaker role just as much. Just makes sure you say you can go both paths with Alolan Rat, it's just as comfortable nuking things right off the bat and weakening a team for others

Team Options
========

Mesprit makes a particularly good teammate for Alolan Raticate as it can switch into Fighting type attacks, set up Stealth Rock to weaken things for it, get off a slow U-turn to get it onto the field, and Healing Wish if it was heavily damaged or statused throughout the battle, along with being an alternative way to get Alolan Raticate onto the field. Qwilfish and Weezing also make good teammates as they can similarly switch into Fighting type attacks while setting up hazards in the form of Toxic Spikes, along with Spikes in Qwilfish’s case, which help Alolan Raticate more easily break through things later on. They can also hold Rocky Helmet in order to further whittle Fighting types down, putting them in the +2 Sucker Punch range. Since Alolan Raticate can be slow at times, Speed control is nice, so Thunder Wave users such as Granbull and Ferroseed can be good, along with making Qwilfish even better. Wallbreakers such as Magmortar and Specs Pyroar can help weaken or take out certain walls before Alolan Raticate comes in to set up and sweep. Slow pivot users such as Lanturn And the previously mentioned Mesprit can take a hit before getting Alolan Raticate on the field practically for free. don't forget about cleaners! As I said in Usage Tips, Alolan Rat is just as much of a wallbreaker as it is a sweeper. Therefore, stuff like Archeops and Scarf Primeape would absolutely benefit from it setting up and smashing fat stuff like Weezing and Regirock

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]

Other Options
=============

Quick Attack is a more reliable alternative to Sucker Punch, but at the setbacks of less power and the inability to hit Ghost types such as Oricorio-Sensu. Alolan Raticate can be ran as an All Out Attacker with Pursuit or Quick Attack instead of Swords Dance, along with U-turn being another option, although the potential to miss the pivot, making it stay in, can often be less reliable than simply switching. The wording on this previous sentence is really confusing, maybe it's easier to mention Pursuit in one sentence and then U-turn in the next sentence. Return can be ran as Alolan Raticate’s Normal type STAB, with no recoil at the setback of a noticeably lower damage output. If you already have the Z-Crystal slot taken on your team, Life Orb is Alolan Raticate’s best alternative item. Choice Scarf can be ran with Switcheroo and U-turn, to lure otherwise faster Pokemon such as Archeops and Pyroar in, but makes Alolan Raticate somewhat underwhelming against defensive teams, and much easier for them to handle and it's unreliable at revenge killing because of Hustle. A similar set can be ran with Choice Band, but as an immediate yet weaker wallbreaker. weaker really isn't the right word here, CB's power level is probably off the charts...however, locking into one move is annoying

-Facade, Lum, and Substitute are all mentionable, but your call

-Thick Fat to counter Jynx

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

**Fighting Types**: Fighting types such as Hitmonchan and Gurdurr OHKO with Mach Punch and take can easily take either of Alolan Raticate’s priority moves. Primeape outspeeds and can take a +2 Sucker Punch, while it OHKOes in return with Close Combat.

**Physically Defensive Pokemon**: If Alolan Raticate lacks the proper Z-move to use against them, physically bulky Pokemon such as Granbull, Ferroseed, and Carracosta can wear ALolan Raticate down with Double Edge’s recoil, Leech Seed, or status conditions. However, this can start mind games with Alolan Raticate’s potentially taking advantage of these turns to set up more Swords Dances.

**Status Conditions**: Bulkier Pokemon such as Colbur Gourgeist-XL and Regirock can take a hit and cripple Alolan Raticate with Will-O-Wisp or Thunder Wave, while faster Pokemon such as Lilligant or Jynx can outspeed and put Sucker Punch Alolan Raticate to sleep, but must be wary of Quick Attack.

**Priority Users**: Since Alolan Raticate is not too hard to whittle down, it is similarly not too difficult to revenge kill with a strong priority user such as Kangaskhan or Floatzel, on top of the previously mentioned Mach Punch users.
this is already very good, almost everything is already there in terms of content. I'm just being extra nitpicky as usual to perfect it, good job bud :toast:

3/3
 
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[OVERVIEW]

With access to Hustle and Swords Dance, along with a nice offensive typing, Alolan Raticate makes a decent offensive Pokemon that can serve as a setup sweeper or a wallbreaker. This allows it to do well against both offensive and defensive teams, especially if it manages to set up a Swords Dance. It sadly has a mediocre Speed stat and meager defenses, which can be a set hold it back at times when it is trying to set up and sweep, although having access to a priority move in Sucker Punch helps against faster foes opponents. While Hustle is one of the large reasons that Alolan Raticate is good viable (subjective) at all, the accuracy drop can also screw it over at times, making it a high-risk high-reward Pokemon. Fighting-types (AH), (AC) which are very common in the meta, (AC) and are a huge problem for Alolan Raticate, as they can OHKO with their priority, moves if they don't already outspeed. It faces a lot competition from Absol and Normal-types (AH) such as Zangoose, who still that also have access to Swords Dance, have along with some extra coverage, and have similar Attack stats without the accuracy drop of Hustle. However, Alolan Raticate has the nice advantage of having multiple STABs (fine), the most powerful priority, and a Z-Move that makes it nearly impossible to switch into.

[SET]
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Double Edge
move 3: Crunch
move 4: Sucker Punch
item: Normalium Z / Darkinium Z
ability: Hustle
nature: Adamant / Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

Moves
========

Swords Dance allows Alolan Raticate to set up and sweep, and allowsing it to OHKO a large amount of the tier. Double Edge stands as a powerful Normal-type (AH) STAB move for Alolan Raticate, with the setback of taking recoil having recoil as its only setback. Crunch provides it with a second STAB coverage move that hits Ghost-types that are immune to Double Edge (AH) such as Sableye and Gourgeist-XL, (AC) which (this applies to all of them) are immune to Double Edge. Sucker Punch is a decently strong STAB priority move that allows Alolan Raticate to hit faster Pokemon such as Lilligant, Oricorio-SensuG, and Alolan Raichu-Alola, however the fopponent can take advantage of Sucker Punch and use the turn to set up, heal themselves, or inflict status upon Alolan Raticate. Pursuit can be ran over Crunch to help trap things such as Mesprit and Mesprit, along with the nice add-on in that it can't miss the turn if the foe opponent switches. This is best when using Darkinium Z, as it allows Z-Sucker Punch Black Hole Eclipse to serve as a one-time dependable Dark STAB.

Set Details
========

252 Attack and 252 Speed EVs allows Alolan Raticate to be as strong and fast as possible, maximizesing its sweeping and wallbreaking ability. Hustle boosts Alolan Raticate's Attack, letting it do as much damage as possible, although at the risk of missing your attacks. An Adamant nature allows for a maximum damage output, making it more easyier to break through bulkier opponents. Jolly gainachieves some notable outsSpeeds, such as benchmarks, allowing Alolan Raticate to outspeed neutral-natured max Speed Skuntank, and Qwilfish, ands well as base 80s such as Mesprit and Shiftry. Both Z Crystals can help break through different walls, as Normalium Z helps with Fairy, Fighting, and Dark types such as Granbull, Throh, and Persian-Alola, on top of have a larger base damage, while Darkinium Z helps against Ghost, Rock, and Steel types such as Colbur Gourgeist-XL, Carracosta, and Ferroseed.

Usage Tips
========

Alolan Raticate is best mid- (AH) to late-game (AH), when all its counters and certain walls have been weakened, (RC) if not KOed. It mainly relies on Swords Dance when facing defensively-oriented (AH) teams, (RC) in order to break more easily break through their opposing walls, but; however, it does not need to always depend on Swords Dance to do well, however, andas it often doesn't need the Attack boost to break through offensively-oriented (AH) teams. However (change that to something else), Alolan Raticate does not always need to serve as a (some teams have more than one) sweeper, and can instead (optional) be used to support the rest of its team by breaking down and nuking opposing teamsfoes (can't damage more than one Pokemon at a time, you know) before bringing out your actual win con a dedicated sweeper (never ever use that!). Try to get Alolan Raticate onto the field against somethingPokemon like Sableye, who that can do very little in return, and set up your Swords Dance as they are forced to switch out, (RC) or use them as set-up fodder if they try to stay in. Be wary of Pokemon such as Mesprit, however, as while Alolan Raticate may be immune to its STAB moves, it can still run coverage moves (optional) such as Dazzling Gleam, and even U-turn does a good amount of damage to Alolan Raticate. While the Z-Moves are mainly to help Alolan Raticate break through bulkier Pokemon, they can also be used to ensure a hit due to, as they ignoringe the accuracy drop from Hustle while still keeping the Attack boost.

Team Options
========

Mesprit makes a particularly good teammate for Alolan Raticate, (AC) as it can switch into Fighting type attacks, set up Stealth Rock to weaken things for it, get off a slow U-turn to get it onto the field, and use Healing Wish if it was heavily damaged or afflicted with statused throughout the battle, along with being an alternative way to get Alolan Raticate onto the field (you just said that). Qwilfish and Weezing also make good teammates, (AC) as they can similarly switch into Fighting-type (AH) attacks while setting up hazards in the form of Toxic Spikes, along with Spikes in Qwilfish’s case, which help Alolan Raticate more easily break through things later on. They can also hold Rocky Helmet in order to further whittle Fighting-types (such as?) down, putting them in the +2 Sucker Punch range. Since Alolan Raticate can be slow at times, speed control is nice, so Thunder Wave users such as Granbull and Ferroseed can be good, along with making Qwilfish even better (this sounds a little weird to me). Wallbreakers such as Magmortar and Specs Pyroar can help weaken or take out certain walls before Alolan Raticate comes in to set up and sweep. Slow pivot users such as Lanturn and the previously mentioned Mesprit can take a hit before getting Alolan Raticate on the field practically for free. Cleaners such as Archeops and Scarf Primeape benefit from Alolan Raticate breaking down the opponent's walls, such as Regirock and Weezing, so that they can come in late-game and clean up the match.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]

Other Options
=============

Quick Attack is a more reliable alternative to Sucker Punch, but at the setbacks cost of less power and the inability to hit Ghost types such as Oricorio-SensuG. Alolan Raticate can be ran as an all-out attacker with Pursuit or Quick Attack instead of Swords Dance. (why is this inferior to the main set?) U-turn is another option, although the potential to miss the pivot(what do you mean by that), making it (what are you referring to?) stay in, can often be less reliable than simply switching. Return can be ran as Alolan Raticate’s Normal-type (AH) STAB move, with as it has no recoil at with the setback of having a noticeably lower damage output. Substitute can be used to take potentially take more hits and block status conditions, but Alolan Raticate does not appreciate the HP loss, and can overall take make much better use overall of its slots (how can it do that?). If you already have the Z-Crystal slot taken on your team, Life Orb is Alolan Raticate’s best alternative item. (explain why) Lum Berry is another option, as it allows Alolan Raticate to better deal with Lilligant's Sleep Powder and Colbur Gourgeist-XL's Will-O-Wisp. Choice Scarf can be ran with Switcheroo and U-turn, (RC) to allow Alolan Raticate to lure otherwise-faster (AH) Pokemon such as Archeops and Pyroar in, but it makes Alolan Raticate somewhat underwhelming against defensive teams, (RC) and much easier for them to handle, along with not being the most reliable revenge killer due to Hustle. A similar set can be ran with Choice Band, but as an immediate wallbreaker, although being locked into a single move can make Alolan Raticate much easier to check, even with the very high extra power.

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

**Fighting Types**: Fighting types such as Hitmonchan and Gurdurr OHKO Alolan Raticate with Mach Punch and take can easily take either of Alolan Raticate’s priority moves. Primeape outspeeds and can take a +2 Sucker Punch, while it OHKOes OHKOing Alolan Raticate in return with Close Combat.

**Physically Defensive Pokemon**: If Alolan Raticate lacks the proper Z-mMove to use against them, physically bulky Pokemon such as Granbull, Ferroseed, and Carracosta can wear ALlolan Raticate down with Double Edge’s recoil, Leech Seed, or status conditions. (please reword this; Raticate wears itself down down with Double Edge) However, this can start mind games with where Alolan Raticate’s can potentially takinge advantage of these turns to set up more Swords Dances.

**Status Conditions**: Bulkier Pokemon such as Regirock and Colbur Berry Gourgeist-XL and Regirock (optional) can take a hit and cripple Alolan Raticate with Will-O-Wisp or Thunder Wave, while faster Pokemon such as Lilligant or and Jynx can outspeed it and put Sucker Punch Alolan Raticate to sleep, but must be wary of Quick Attack.

**Priority Users**: Since Alolan Raticate is not too hard to whittle down, it is similarly not too difficult to revenge kill with a strong priority user, such as Kangaskhan or Floatzel, on top of the previously mentioned Mach Punch users (think about mentioning them anyway).
 

autumn

only i will remain
is a Site Content Manageris a Member of Senior Staffis a Community Contributoris a Tiering Contributoris a Top Contributoris a Social Media Contributor Alumnusis a Top Smogon Media Contributor Alumnusis an Administrator Alumnusis a Battle Simulator Moderator Alumnus
C&C Leader

GP 1/2
add remove comments

[OVERVIEW]

With access to Hustle and Swords Dance along with a nice offensive typing, Alolan Raticate makes a decent offensive Pokemon that can serve as a setup sweeper or a wallbreaker. This allows it to do well against both offensive and defensive teams, especially if it manages to set up a Swords Dance. It sadly has a mediocre Speed stat and meager defenses, which can hold it back at times when it is trying to set up and sweep, although having access to a priority move in Sucker Punch helps against faster foes. While Hustle is one of the large reasons that Alolan Raticate is viable at all, the accuracy drop can also screw it over at times, making it a high-risk high-reward Pokemon. Fighting-types, which are very common in the metagame, are a huge problem for Alolan Raticate, as they can OHKO it with their priority moves if they don't already outspeed it. It faces a lot of competition from Absol and Normal-types such as Zangoose that also have access to Swords Dance, have extra coverage, and have similar Attack stats without the accuracy drop of Hustle. However, Alolan Raticate has the nice advantage of having multiple STAB options, the most powerful priority, (espeed?) and a Z-Move that makes it nearly impossible to switch into.

[SET]
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Double-Edge
move 3: Crunch
move 4: Sucker Punch
item: Normalium Z / Darkinium Z
ability: Hustle
nature: Adamant / Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

Moves
========

Swords Dance allows Alolan Raticate to set up and sweep, allowing it to OHKO a large amount of the tier. Double-(AH)Edge stands as a powerful Normal-type STAB move for Alolan Raticate, having recoil as its only setback. Crunch provides it with a second STAB move that hits Ghost-types such as Sableye and Gourgeist-XL, which are immune to Double-(AH)Edge. Sucker Punch is a decently strong STAB priority move that allows Alolan Raticate to hit faster Pokemon such as Lilligant, Oricorio-G, and Alolan Raichu, however the foe can take advantage of Sucker Punch and use the turn to set up, heal themselves, or inflict status upon Alolan Raticate. Pursuit can be ran run over Crunch to help trap Pokemon things such as Mesprit and Mesprit, (?) along with the nice add-on in that it can't miss if the foe switches. This is best when using Darkinium Z, as it allows Black Hole Eclipse to serve as a one-time dependable Dark STAB. (expand on this it set details)

Set Details
========

252 Attack and 252 Speed EVs allow Alolan Raticate to be as strong and fast as possible, maximizing its sweeping and wallbreaking ability. Hustle boosts Alolan Raticate's Attack, letting it do as much damage as possible at the risk of missing attacks. An Adamant nature allows Alolan Raticate to have for maximum damage output, making it easier to break through bulkier opponents foes. Jolly achieves notable Speed benchmarks, allowing Alolan Raticate to outspeed neutral-natured maximum Speed Skuntank and Qwilfish as well as (space) base 80s such as Mesprit and Shiftry. Both Z-(AH)Crystals can help break through different walls, as Normalium Z helps with Fairy-(AH), Fighting-(AH), and Dark-(AH)types such as Granbull, Throh, and Alolan Persian-Alola, on top of have a larger base damage having higher Base Power, while Darkinium Z helps against Ghost-(AH), Rock-(AH), and Steel-(AH)types such as Colbur Berry Gourgeist-XL, Carracosta, and Ferroseed.

Usage Tips
========

Alolan Raticate is best mid-to used mid- or late-game, when all its counters and certain walls have been weakened if not KOed. It mainly relies on Swords Dance when facing defensively-(RH) oriented teams in order to break more easily through opposing walls more easily; however, it does not need to always depend on Swords Dance to do well, as it often doesn't need the Attack boost to break through offensively-(RH) oriented teams. However, Alolan Raticate does not always need to serve as a sweeper, (RC) and can be used to support the rest of its team by breaking down and nuking hitting foes hard before bringing out a dedicated sweeper. Try to get Alolan Raticate onto the field against Pokemon like Sableye that can do very little damage to it in return and set up Swords Dance, (AC) as they are forced to switch out or be used as use them as setup fodder if they try to stay in. Be wary of Pokemon such as Mesprit, however, as while Alolan Raticate may be is immune to its STAB moves, it can still run coverage moves such as Dazzling Gleam, and even U-turn does a good amount of damage to Alolan Raticate. While the Z-Moves are mainly to help Alolan Raticate break through bulkier Pokemon, they can also be used to ensure a hit, as they ignore the accuracy drop from Hustle while still keeping the Attack boost.

Team Options
========

Mesprit makes a particularly good teammate for Alolan Raticate, as it can switch into Fighting-(AH)type attacks, set up Stealth Rock to weaken things Pokemon for it, get off a slow U-turn to get it onto the field, and use Healing Wish if Alolan Raticate is heavily damaged or afflicted with status throughout the battle. Qwilfish and Weezing also make good teammates, as they can similarly switch into Fighting-type attacks while setting up hazards in the form of Toxic Spikes, along with Spikes in Qwilfish’s case, which help Alolan Raticate more easily break through things threats later on. They can also hold Rocky Helmet in order to further whittle the Fighting-types like Hitmonchan and Primeape down, putting them in the range to be KOed by +2 Sucker Punch range. Since Alolan Raticate can be slow at times, speed control is nice, so Thunder Wave users such as Granbull and Ferroseed can be good, and this is another reason Qwilfish is a good teammate. Wallbreakers such as Magmortar and Choice Specs Pyroar can help weaken or take out certain walls before Alolan Raticate comes in to set up and sweep. Slow pivots users such as Lanturn and the previously mentioned Mesprit can take a hit before getting Alolan Raticate on the field practically for free. Cleaners such as Archeops and Choice Scarf Primeape benefit from Alolan Raticate's ability to break breaking down the opponent's walls, such as Regirock and Weezing, so that they can come in late-game and clean up the match.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]

Other Options
=============

Quick Attack is a more reliable alternative to Sucker Punch, but at the cost of power and the ability to hit Ghost-(AH)types such as Oricorio-G. Alolan Raticate can be ran run as an all-out attacker with Pursuit or Quick Attack instead of Swords Dance. U-turn is another option, although the potential to miss the attack for the attack to miss, making meaning that Alolan Raticate stays in, can often be less reliable than simply switching. Return can be ran run as Alolan Raticate’s Normal-type STAB move, as it has no recoil with the setback of having a noticeably lower damage output. Substitute can be used to potentially take more hits and block status conditions, but Alolan Raticate does not appreciate the HP loss, (RC) and can make much better use overall of its moveslots. If you already have the Z-Crystal slot taken on your team, Life Orb is Alolan Raticate’s best alternative item, boosting the power of all its moves. Lum Berry is another option, as it allows Alolan Raticate to better deal with Lilligant's Sleep Powder and Colbur Berry Gourgeist-XL's Will-O-Wisp. Choice Scarf can be ran run with Switcheroo and U-turn to allow Alolan Raticate to lure otherwise-(RH) faster Pokemon such as Archeops and Pyroar, but it makes Alolan Raticate somewhat underwhelming against defensive teams and much easier for them to handle, along with not being the most reliable revenge killer due to Hustle. A similar set can be ran run with Choice Band, (RC) but as an immediate wallbreaker, although being locked into a single move can make Alolan Raticate much easier to check even with the extra power.

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

**Fighting-types**: Fighting-(AH)types such as Hitmonchan and Gurdurr OHKO Alolan Raticate with Mach Punch and can easily take either of Alolan Raticate’s priority moves. Primeape outspeeds Alolan Raticate and can take a +2 Sucker Punch, OHKOing it Alolan Raticate in return with Close Combat.

**Physically Defensive Pokemon**: If Alolan Raticate lacks the proper Z-Move to use against them, physically bulky Pokemon such as Granbull, Ferroseed, and Carracosta can wear Alolan Raticate down with a combination of Double-Edge’s recoil, Leech Seed, or and status conditions. However, this can start mind games where Alolan Raticate can potentially take advantage of these turns to set up more Swords Dances.

**Status Conditions**: Bulkier Pokemon such as Regirock and Colbur Berry Gourgeist-XL can take a hit and cripple Alolan Raticate with Will-O-Wisp or Thunder Wave, while faster Pokemon such as Lilligant and Jynx can outspeed it and put Sucker Punch Alolan Raticate to sleep but must be wary of Quick Attack.

**Priority Users**: Since Alolan Raticate is not too hard to whittle down, it is similarly not too difficult to revenge kill with a strong priority user, (space) such as Kangaskhan or Floatzel, on top of as well as the previously mentioned Mach Punch users, Gurdurr and Hitmonchan.
 
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Luthier

Don’t get mad, get even.
is a Tiering Contributor Alumnusis a Two-Time Past SCL Champion
With access to Hustle and Swords Dance along with a nice offensive typing, Alolan Raticate makes a decent offensive Pokemon that can serve as a setup sweeper or a wallbreaker. This allows it to do well against both offensive and defensive teams, especially if it manages to set up a Swords Dance. It sadly has a mediocre Speed stat and meager defenses, which can hold it back at times when it is trying to set up and sweep, althougheven if it havings access to Sucker Punch to helps against faster foes. While Hustle is one of the large reasons that Alolan Raticate is viable at all, the accuracy drop can also screw it over at times, making it a high-risk high-reward Pokemon. Fighting-types, which are very common in the metagame, are a huge problem for Alolan Raticate, as they can OHKO it with their priority moves if they don't already outspeed it. ItFurthermore, Alolan Raticate faces a lot of competition from Absol and Normal-types such as Zangoose that also have access to Swords Dance, extra coverage, and similar Attack stats without the accuracy drop of Hustle. However,But what sets Alolan Raticate hasapart from the nice advantage of havingother Pokemos is its access to multiple STAB options, powerful priority, and a Z-Move that makes it nearly impossible to switch into.

[SET]
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Double-Edge
move 3: Crunch
move 4: Sucker Punch
item: Normalium Z / Darkinium Z
ability: Hustle
nature: Adamant / Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

Moves
========

Swords Dance allows Alolan Raticate to set up and sweep. At +2, allowing it tocan OHKO a large amount of the tier. Double-Edge stands as a powerful Normal-type STAB move for Alolan Raticate, having recoil as its only setback. Crunch provides it with a second STAB move that hits Ghost-types such as Sableye and Gourgeist-XL, which are immune to Double-Edge. Sucker Punch is a decently strong STAB priority move that allows Alolan Raticate to hit faster Pokemon such as Lilligant, Oricorio-G, and Alolan Raichu, however. It is important to note that the foe can take advantage of Sucker Punch and use the turn to set up, heal themselves, or inflict status upon Alolan Raticate. Pursuit can be run over Crunch to trap Pokemon such as Mesprit along with the nice add-on that it can't miss if the foe switches.

Set Details
========

252 Attack and 252 Speed EVs allow Alolan Raticate to be as strong and fast as possible, maximizing its sweeping and wallbreaking ability. Hustle boosts Alolan Raticate's Attack, letting it do as much damage as possible at the risk of missing attacks. An Adamant nature allows Alolan Raticate to have maximum damage output, making it easier to break through bulkier foes. Jolly achieves notable Speed benchmarks, allowing Alolan Raticate to outspeed neutral-natured maximum Speed Skuntank and Qwilfish as well as base 80s such as Mesprit and Shiftry. Both Z-Crystals can help break through different walls, as; Normalium Z helps with Fairy-, Fighting-, and Dark-types such as Granbull, Throh, and Alolan Persian, on top of having higher Base Power, while Darkinium Z helps against Ghost-, Rock-, and Steel-types such as Colbur Berry Gourgeist-XL, Carracosta, and Ferroseed. Darkinium-Z is recommended when running Pursuit, as Black Hole Eclipse gives Alolan Raticate a one-time dependable Dark STAB.

Usage Tips
========

Alolan Raticate is best used mid- or late-game, when all of its counters and certain walls have been weakened if not KOed. It mainly relies on Swords Dance when facing defensively oriented teams in order to break through opposing walls more easily; however, it does not need to always depend on Swords Dance to do well, as it often doesn't need the Attack boost to break through offensively oriented teams. However,What most people don't recognize is that Alolan Raticate does not always need to serve as a sweeper and can be used to support the rest of its team by breaking down and hitting foes hard before bringing out a dedicated sweeper. Try to get Alolan Raticate onto the field against Pokemon like Sableye that can do very little damage to it in return and set up Swords Dance, as they are forced to switch out or be used as setup fodder if they try to stay in. Be wary of Pokemon such as Mesprit, however, as while Alolan Raticate is immune to its STAB moves, it can still run coverage moves such as Dazzling Gleam, and even U-turn does a good amount of damage to Alolan Raticate. While the Z-Moves are mainly to help Alolan Raticate break through bulkier Pokemon, they can also be used to ensure a hit, as they ignore the accuracy drop from Hustle while still keeping the Attack boost.

Team Options
========

Mesprit makes a particularly good teammate for Alolan Raticate, as it can switch into Fighting-type attacks, set up Stealth Rock to weaken Pokemon for it, get off a slow U-turn to get it onto the field, and use Healing Wish if Alolan Raticate is heavily damaged or afflicted with status. Qwilfish and Weezing also make good teammates, as they can similarly switch into Fighting-type attacks while setting up hazards in the form of Toxic Spikes, along with Spikes in Qwilfish’s case, which help Alolan Raticate more easily break through threats later on. They can also hold Rocky Helmet in order to further whittle Fighting-types like Hitmonchan and Primeape down, putting them in range to be KOed by +2 Sucker Punch. Since Alolan Raticate can be slow at times, speed control is nice, so Thunder Wave users such as. Noteworthy teammates include Granbull and, Ferroseed, can be good, and this is anod Qwilfish. All of these Pokemon have access to Thunder Wave which allows ther reason Qwilfish is a goodlatively slow Alolan Raticate to outspeed opposing threammates. Wallbreakers such as Magmortar and Choice Specs Pyroar can help weaken or take out certain walls before Alolan Raticate comes in to set up and sweep. Slow pivots such as Lanturn and the previously mentioned Mesprit can take a hit before getting Alolan Raticate on the field practically for free. Cleaners such as Archeops and Choice Scarf Primeape benefit from Alolan Raticate's ability to break down the opponent's walls, such as Regirock and Weezing, so that they can come in late-game and clean up the match.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]

Other Options
=============

Quick Attack is a more reliable alternative to Sucker Punch, but at the cost of power and the ability to hit Ghost-types such as Oricorio-G. Alolan Raticate can be run as an all-out attacker with Pursuit or Quick Attack instead of Swords Dance. U-turn is another option, although the potential for the attack to miss, meaning that Alolan Raticate stays in, can often be less reliable than simply switching. Return can be run as Alolan Raticate’s Normal-type STAB move, as it has no recoil with the setback of having a noticeably lower damage output. Substitute can be used to potentially take more hits and block status conditions, but Alolan Raticate does not appreciate the HP loss and can make much better use overall of its moveslots. If you already have the Z-Crystal slot taken on your team, Life Orb is Alolan Raticate’s best alternative item, boosting the power of all its moves. Lum Berry is another option, as it allows Alolan Raticate to better deal with Lilligant's Sleep Powder and Colbur Berry Gourgeist-XL's Will-O-Wisp. Choice Scarf can be run with Switcheroo and U-turn to allow Alolan Raticate to lure otherwise faster Pokemon such as Archeops and Pyroar, but it makes Alolan Raticate somewhat underwhelming against defensive teams and much easier for them to handle, along with not being the most reliable revenge killer due to Hustle. A similar set can be run with Choice Band but as an immediate wallbreaker, although being locked into a single move can make Alolan Raticate much easier to check even with the extra power.

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

**Fighting-types**: Fighting-types such as Hitmonchan and Gurdurr OHKO Alolan Raticate with Mach Punch and can easily take either of Alolan Raticate’s priority moves. Primeape outspeeds Alolan Raticate and can take a +2 Sucker Punch, OHKOing it in return with Close Combat.

**Physically Defensive Pokemon**: If Alolan Raticate lacks the proper Z-Move to use against them, physically bulky Pokemon such as Granbull, Ferroseed, and Carracosta can wear Alolan Raticate down with a combination of Double-Edge’s recoil, Leech Seed, and status conditions. However, this can start mind games where Alolan Raticate can potentially take advantage of these turns to set up more Swords Dances.

**Status Conditions**: Bulkier Pokemon such as Regirock and Colbur Berry Gourgeist-XL can take a hit and cripple Alolan Raticate with Will-O-Wisp or Thunder Wave, while faster Pokemon such as Lilligant and Jynx can outspeed it and put Sucker Punch Alolan Raticate to sleep but must be wary of Quick Attack.

**Priority Users**: Since Alolan Raticate is not too hard to whittle down, it is similarly not too difficult to revenge kill with a strong priority user, such as Kangaskhan or Floatzel, as well as the previously mentioned Mach Punch users, Gurdurr and Hitmonchan.
 

yogi

I did not succumb...
is a Tutor Alumnusis a Social Media Contributor Alumnusis a Community Contributor Alumnusis a Contributor Alumnus
Hey!

I already know that this is halfway through GP, but I'd like it if some things are changed;
  • Mention Knock Off in the overview and it's general utility
  • You need to remove your reference to Crunch in Moves, because there's still a comparison there
  • "Darkinium-Z is recommended when running Pursuit, as Black Hole Eclipse gives Alolan Raticate a one-time dependable Dark STAB" This makes no sense, and Z Pursuit is bad, so remove this bit from Set Details
  • Mention Crunch in Other Options, as it's been removed from Moves
  • Change "Priority Users" to Revenge Killers and remove any mention of Gurdurr and Hitmonchan, as they're already talked about in an earlier section. Outside of Mach Punch all other priority is neutral and doesn't actually do that much damage to Alolan Raticate. Alolan Raticate can threaten them with Sucker Punch however
Thanks!
 

UberSkitty

Assist Skitty was too broken for NDUbers
is a Site Content Manageris a Forum Moderatoris a Community Contributoris a Contributor to Smogon
Implemented!
I should probably be working on my lab report due tomorrow right now
 

Fireflame

Silksong when
is a Top Contributoris a Smogon Media Contributoris a Social Media Contributor Alumnus
Remove Add Comments (AC)= add comma (RC)= remove comma (AH)= add hyphen (RH)= remove hyphen
[OVERVIEW]

With access to Hustle and Swords Dance along with a nice offensive typing, Alolan Raticate makes a decent offensive Pokemon that can serve as a setup sweeper or a wallbreaker. This allows it to do well against both offensive and defensive teams, especially if it manages to set up a Swords Dance, and it also has access to utility in the form of Knock Off. Sadly, it Alolan Raticate has a mediocre Speed stat and meager defenses, which can hold it back at times when it is trying to set up and sweep, although having access to Sucker Punch helps against faster foes. While Hustle is one of the large reasons that Alolan Raticate is viable at all, the accuracy drop can also screw it over at times, making it a high-risk high-reward Pokemon. Fighting-types, which are very common in the metagame, are a huge problem for Alolan Raticate, as they can OHKO it with their priority moves if they don't already outspeed it. Furthermore, Alolan Raticate faces a lot of competition from Absol and Normal-types such as Zangoose that also have access to Swords Dance, extra coverage, and similar Attack stats without the accuracy drop of Hustle. But what sets Alolan Raticate apart from them is its access to multiple STAB options, powerful priority, and a Z-Move that makes it nearly impossible to switch into.

[SET]
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Double-Edge
move 3: Knock Off
move 4: Sucker Punch
item: Normalium Z / Darkinium Z
ability: Hustle
nature: Jolly / Adamant
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

Moves
========

Swords Dance allows Alolan Raticate to set up and sweep;(SC),(RC) as at +2 it is able to OHKO a large amount of the tier. Double-Edge stands as is a powerful Normal-type STAB move for Alolan Raticate, having recoil as its only setback. Knock Off provides it with a second STAB move that hits Ghost-types such as Sableye and Gourgeist-XL, which are immune to Double-Edge. It also provides the secondary effect of removing opponent's item's foes' items, most notabley notably from Eviolite and Choice-(AH)item users like Ferroseed and Meprit. Sucker Punch is a decently strong STAB priority move that allows Alolan Raticate to hit faster Pokemon such as Lilligant, Oricorio-G, and Alolan Raichu. However, it is important to note that the foe can take advantage of Sucker Punch and use the turn to set up, heal themselves, or inflict status upon Alolan Raticate. Pursuit can be run over Knock Off to trap Pokemon such as Mesprit along with the nice add-on that it can't miss if the foe switches.

Set Details
========

252 Attack and 252 Speed EVs allow Alolan Raticate to be as strong and fast as possible, maximizing its sweeping and wallbreaking ability abilities. Hustle boosts Alolan Raticate's Attack, letting it do as much damage as possible at the risk of missing attacks. A Jolly nature achieves notable Speed benchmarks, allowing Alolan Raticate to outspeed neutral-natured maximum Speed Skuntank and Qwilfish as well as base 80s such as Mesprit and Shiftry. Adamant nature allows Alolan Raticate to have maximum damage output, making it easier to break through bulkier foes. Both Z-Crystals can help break through different walls; Normalium Z helps with Fairy-, Fighting-, and Dark-types such as Granbull, Throh, and Alolan Persian, on top of having higher Base Power, while Darkinium Z helps against Ghost-, Rock-, and Steel-types such as Colbur Berry Gourgeist-XL, Carracosta, and Ferroseed.

Usage Tips
========

Alolan Raticate is best used mid- or late-game,(RC) when all of its counters and certain walls have been weakened if not KOed. It mainly relies on Swords Dance when facing defensively oriented teams in order to break through opposing walls more easily; however, it does not need to always depend on Swords Dance to do well, as it often doesn't need the Attack boost to break through offensively oriented teams. However,(RC) (two "howevers" in a row is awkward) Alolan Raticate does not always need to serve as a sweeper and can be used to support the rest of its team by breaking down foes and hitting foes them hard before bringing out a dedicated sweeper. Try to get Alolan Raticate onto the field against Pokemon like Sableye that can do very little damage to it in return and set up Swords Dance, as they are forced to switch out or be used as setup fodder if they try to stay in. Be wary of Pokemon such as Mesprit, however, as while Alolan Raticate is immune to its STAB moves, it can still run coverage moves such as Dazzling Gleam, and even U-turn does a good amount of damage to Alolan Raticate. While the Z-Moves are mainly to help Alolan Raticate break through bulkier Pokemon, they can also be used to ensure a hit, as they ignore the accuracy drop from Hustle while still keeping the Attack boost.

Team Options
========

Mesprit makes a particularly good teammate for Alolan Raticate, as it can switch into Fighting-type attacks, set up Stealth Rock to weaken Pokemon for it, get off a slow U-turn to get it onto the field, and use Healing Wish if Alolan Raticate is heavily damaged or afflicted with status. Qwilfish and Weezing also make good teammates, as they can similarly switch into Fighting-type attacks while setting up hazards in the form of Toxic Spikes, along with Spikes in Qwilfish’s case, which help Alolan Raticate more easily break through threats later on. They can also hold Rocky Helmet in order to further whittle Fighting-types like Hitmonchan and Primeape down, putting them in range to be KOed by +2 Sucker Punch. Since Alolan Raticate can be slow at times, speed control is nice. Noteworthy teammates include Granbull, Ferroseed, and again, Qwilfish. All of these Pokemon have access to Thunder Wave, allowing Alolan Raticate to outspeed otherwise faster threats. Wallbreakers such as Magmortar and Choice Specs Pyroar can help weaken or take out certain walls before Alolan Raticate comes in to set up and sweep. Slow pivots such as Lanturn and the previously mentioned Mesprit can take a hit before getting Alolan Raticate on the field practically for free. Cleaners such as Archeops and Choice Scarf Primeape benefit from Alolan Raticate's ability to break down the opponent's walls, such as Regirock and Weezing, so that they can come in late-game and clean up the match.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]

Other Options
=============

Quick Attack is a more reliable alternative to Sucker Punch,(RC) but at the cost of power and the ability to hit Ghost-types such as Oricorio-G. Alolan Raticate can be run as an all-out attacker with Pursuit or Quick Attack instead of Swords Dance. U-turn is another option, although the potential for the attack to miss, meaning that Alolan Raticate stays in, can often be less reliable than simply switching. Return can be run as Alolan Raticate’s Normal-type STAB move, as it has no recoil with the setback of having a noticeably lower damage output. Crunch can replace Knock Off as Alolan Raticate's Dark-type STAB move, as it can deal more damage to Z-Crystal users such as Musharna or Colbur Berry holders such as Gourgeist-XL, along with having a stronger Z-Move. Substitute can be used to potentially take more hits and block status conditions, but Alolan Raticate does not appreciate the HP loss and can make much better use overall of its moveslots. If you already have the Z-Crystal slot taken on your team, Life Orb is Alolan Raticate’s best alternative item, boosting the power of all its moves. Lum Berry is another option, as it allows allowing (repetition) Alolan Raticate to better deal with Lilligant's Sleep Powder and Colbur Berry Gourgeist-XL's Will-O-Wisp. Choice Scarf can be run with Switcheroo and U-turn to allow Alolan Raticate to lure otherwise faster Pokemon such as Archeops and Pyroar, but it makes Alolan Raticate somewhat underwhelming against defensive teams and much easier for them to handle, along with not being the most reliable revenge killer due to Hustle. A similar set can be run with Choice Band but as an immediate wallbreaker, although being locked into a single move can make Alolan Raticate much easier to check even with the extra power.

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

**Fighting-types**: Fighting-types such as Hitmonchan and Gurdurr OHKO Alolan Raticate with Mach Punch and can easily take either of Alolan Raticate’s priority moves. Primeape and Passimian outspeed Alolan Raticate and can take a +2 Sucker Punch, OHKOing it in return with Close Combat.

**Physically Defensive Pokemon**: If Alolan Raticate lacks the proper Z-Move to use against them, physically bulky Pokemon such as Ferroseed, defensive Carracosta, and defensive Mawile can wear Alolan Raticate down with a combination of Double-Edge’s recoil, Leech Seed, and status conditions,(RC) and can use Alolan Raticate as setup fodder for Spikes or Stealth Rocks Rock. However, this can start mind games where Alolan Raticate can potentially take advantage of these turns to set up more Swords Dances.

**Status Conditions**: Bulkier Pokemon such as Regirock, Granbull, and Colbur Berry Gourgeist-XL can take a hit and cripple Alolan Raticate with Thunder Wave or Will-O-Wisp, while faster Pokemon such as Lilligant and Jynx can outspeed it and put Alolan Raticate to sleep without fear of Sucker Punch, but they must be wary of Quick Attack.

**Revenge Killers**: Since Alolan Raticate is not too hard to whittle down, it is not too difficult to revenge kill with faster Pokemon such as Silvally-Fairy or and Kabutops. However, Sucker Punch can threaten them.(period),(RC) so A strong and faster priority user, such as Kangaskhan or Floatzel,(AC) can sometimes be a safer way to take Alolan Raticate out.
GP 2/2
 

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