LC Alolan Sandshrew (Choice Scarf)

[Hilomilo]

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Icicle Spear
move 2: Iron Head
move 3: Rapid Spin
move 4: Earthquake
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Slush Rush
nature: Jolly
evs: 236 Atk / 76 SpD / 196 Spe

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

Icicle Spear is Alolan Sandshrew's main STAB move and is a powerful multi-hit move that allows it to break Focus Sash, Sturdy, and Substitute, as well as heavily damage unboosted Weak Armor Vullaby. Iron Head is a powerful secondary STAB attack that hits Fairy-types such as Spritzee and Snubbull for sufficient damage while also hitting targets resistant to Icicle Spear like Alolan Vulpix and Munchlax, OHKOing the former and 2HKOing the latter. Rapid Spin gives Alolan Sandshrew a reliable way of quickly clearing the field of entry hazards and allows it to support its team. It does, however, risk turning Alolan Sandshrew into setup bait by locking it into an extremely weak move. Earthquake is useful for hitting Fire-types such as Ponyta and Vulpix and Steel-types likes Pawniard and Magnemite, all of which otherwise wall Alolan Sandshrew, for super effective damage. Icicle Crash is an option over Icicle Spear, as it allows Alolan Sandshrew to hit Mudbray for more consistent damage and hit harder than a two-hit Icicle Spear. It is also helpful for situations in which a two-hit Icicle Spear won't be capable of revenge killing a foe, such as Vullaby. However, this generally isn't preferred due to the better damage rolls Icicle Spear will usually score due to Little Cup's damage roll mechanics, as well as the move's worse accuracy.

Set Details
========

Maximized Speed EVs with a Jolly nature and Choice Scarf allow Alolan Sandshrew to hit 21 Speed and outpace the entire unboosted metagame. Maximized Attack EVs are useful for allowing Alolan Sandshrew to hit as hard as possible and dent a decent portion of the metagame with its attacks, notably OHKOing Weak Armor Vullaby with a three-hit Icicle Spear and OHKOing offensive variants of Ponyta with Earthquake. The remaining EVs are invested into Special Defense, as Alolan Sandshrew's physical bulk is already high enough to justify further boosting its rather lackluster special bulk. Slush Rush allows Alolan Sandshrew to outpace all Choice Scarf users that normally outpace it, such as Doduo and Rufflet, if hail happens to be summoned during the match.

Usage Tips
========

Thanks to the good Speed Choice Scarf provides Alolan Sandshrew with, it is capable of revenge killing Pokemon like Diglett and Cottonee, as well as tearing holes in teams early-game or cleaning up late-game once its checks are removed or weakened. Alolan Sandshrew's good Speed with a Choice Scarf also allows it to function as a fairly reliable emergency stop to Nasty Plot Vullaby, whose Weak Armor ability leaves it extremely susceptible to an OHKO from Icicle Spear unless the move only hits twice. Despite its good Speed with a Choice Scarf, Alolan Sandshrew is still outsped and threatened by other common Choice Scarf users in Mienfoo, Rufflet, and Chinchou. As a result, these Pokemon must have their Choice Scarves scouted out on opposing teams to make full use of Alolan Sandshrew. Another big concern of Alolan Sandshrew is the tier's prevalence of Fighting-types like Mienfoo, Timburr, and Scraggy, which will tank a hit and OHKO Alolan Sandshrew. As a result, you should always switch Alolan Sandshrew out of healthy Fighting-types and remove them before Alolan Sandshrew attempts to clean late-game. If the opponent has a hail setter, Alolan Sandshrew is capable of utilizing its Slush Rush ability to outpace every Choice Scarf user in the metagame, thus allowing it to rip holes in the opposing team for as long as hail is active, though it's worth noting that these circumstances are rather rare. When predicting the switch into a Pokemon resistant to its STAB attacks, Alolan Sandshrew should either use Rapid Spin to remove entry hazards from its team's side of the field or use Earthquake to hit the potential switch-in for super effective or neutral damage. It should be noted, however, that being locked onto Rapid Spin can easily make Alolan Sandshrew setup bait, due to the move's low Base Power. Lastly, due to its role as a revenge killer, it is best to bring Alolan Sandshrew into play carefully, such as on weak resisted hits or after a teammate has fainted.

Team Options
========

Due to this set's role as a revenge killer, Alolan Sandshrew is most appreciated by offensive builds. Pokemon that bring in Flying- and Grass-types, such as Diglett, Cottonee, and Drilbur, appreciate Alolan Sandshrew's ability to remove the likes of Rufflet, Doduo, and Foongus for them. Pokemon that fear Diglett, such as Ponyta, Croagunk, and Chinchou, are also appreciative of Alolan Sandshrew, as its ability to revenge kill Diglett allows these Pokemon to perform their roles much more consistently. Reliable Fighting-type checks, such as Spritzee, Snubbull, Abra, and Foongus, are all capable of taking care of common Fighting-types in Timburr, Croagunk and Mienfoo and making it easier for Alolan Sandshrew to clean up late-game, though the former two can't reliably check Croagunk. Despite its access to Earthquake, Alolan Sandshrew is still very susceptible to Fire-type Pokemon. As a result, Pokemon capable of removing Fire-types such as Diglett, Mudbray, and Tirtouga are all quite helpful as partners. Pokemon capable of removing Water-types, such as Elekid, Chinchou, and Snivy, are also helpful, as Alolan Sandshrew's STAB attacks are resisted by most of LC's Water-types. Setup sweepers, such as Vullaby, Carvanha, and Timburr, appreciate Alolan Sandshrew's ability to weaken foes early-game and facilitate a more reliable late-game sweep. Knock Off support from the likes of Timburr, Vullaby, and Alolan Grimer is very useful for Alolan Sandshrew, allowing it to muscle past bulkier foes with better success. Entry hazard support from Pokemon like Dwebble and Onix is also helpful for giving Alolan Sandshrew an easier time breaking through foes due to the chip damage they have taken. Lastly, bulky Water-types like Mareanie and particularly Slowpoke make great teammates, as they fit well on the bulky offense teams that Alolan Sandshrew thrives on and generally have good synergy with it.

 

[Xayah]

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf

good

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

• Make it clear that Icicle Spear is Sandslash's main STAB move, that's not clear currently.
• Mention that being locked into Rapid Spin can turn Sandslash into set up bait
• Mention the reason Icicle Crash is an option at all (more reliable damage, kills Mudbray), cause right now it seems like and Other Option thing.

Set Details
========

good

Usage Tips
========

• 'which will either tank a hit and OHKO Scraggy or in Timburr's case, flat out OHKO it with Mach Punch' Something is wrong here. I don't know how you want to word this, but this is wrong.
• Mention being careful when locking Sandslash into Rapid Spin, since it can turn it into set up bait due to Rapid Spin's low power

Team Options
========

• Mention checks to other Ice resistances, like Fire-, Steel-, and Water-types, to give Sandslash an easier time cleaning with Icicle Spear. Ways to remove Waters are especially important, since they resist both of Sandslash's STAB moves.

QC 1/3, yes the Sandslashes are on purpose

 

[gali]

Hide

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Icicle Spear
move 2: Iron Head
move 3: Rapid Spin
move 4: Earthquake
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Slush Rush
nature: 236 Atk / 76 SpD / 196 Spe
evs: Jolly

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

* Icicle Spear is a powerful multi-hit STAB move that allows Alolan Sandshrew to break Focus Sash, Sturdy, and Subsitute, as well as heavily damage unboosted Weak Armor Vullaby.
* Iron Head is powerful secondary STAB that hits Fairy-types such as Spritzee and Snubbull for sufficient damage, while also hitting targets resistant to Icicle Spear, like Alolan Vulpix and Munchlax for an OHKO in the case of the former and a 2HKO in the latter's case.
* Rapid Spin gives Alolan Sandshrew a reliable way of quickly clearing the field of entry hazards and allows it to support its team.
* Earthquake is useful for hitting Fire-types such as Ponyta and Vulpix and Steel-types likes Pawniard and Magnemite, all of which otherwise wall Alolan Sandshrew, super effectively.
* Icicle Crash is an option over Icicle Spear, but generally isn't preferred due to the better damage rolls Icicle Spear will score due to Little Cup's damage roll mechanics.

Set Details
========

* Maximized Speed EVs with a Jolly nature and Choice Scarf allow Alolan Sandshrew to hit 21 Speed and outpace the entire unboosted metagame.
* Maximized Attack EVs are useful for allowing Alolan Sandshrew to hit as hard as possible and dent a decent portion of the metagame with its attacks.
* The remaining EVs are invested into Special Defense, as Alolan Sandshrew's physical bulk is already high enough to justify further boosting its rather lackluster special bulk.
* Slush Rush is the preferred ability, as it allows Alolan Sandshrew to outpace all Pokemon that outpace it with a Choice Scarf equipped, such as Doduo and Rufflet, if hail happens to be summoned during the match.

Usage Tips
========

* Thanks to the good Speed Choice Scarf provides Alolan Sandshrew with, it is capable of revenge killing Pokemon like Diglett and Cottonee, as well as functioning as an early-game hole puncher or late-game cleaner once its checks are removed or weakened.
* Alolan Sandshrew's good Speed with a Choice Scarf also allows it to function as a fairly reliable emergency stop to Nasty Plot Vullaby, who's Weak Armor ability leaves it extremely susceptible to an OHKO from Icicle Spear unless the move only hits twice.
* Despite its good Speed with a Choice Scarf equipped, Alolan Sandshrew is still outsped and threatened by other common Choice Scarf users in Rufflet, Doduo and Chinchou. As a result, these Pokemon must be scouted out on opposing teams to make full use of Alolan Sandshrew. I'd drop Doduo; its Scarf set isn't very common.
* Another big concern of Alolan Sandshrew's is the tier's prevalence of Fighting-types like Mienfoo, Timburr, and Scraggy, which will either tank a hit and OHKO Scraggy (?) or in Timburr's case, flat out OHKO it with Mach Punch. As a result, opposing Fighting-types should always be switched out of unless weakened, and removed before Alolan Sandshrew attempts to clean late-game.
* Alolan Sandshrew is capable of utilizing its Slush Rush ability under the circumstance that the opponent's team has a hail setter to outpace every Choice Scarf user in the metagame, thus allowing it to rip holes in the opposing team for as long as hail is active.
* When predicting the switch into a Pokemon resistant to its STAB attacks, Alolan Sandshrew should either use Rapid Spin to remove entry hazards from its team's side of the field, or Earthquake to hit the potential switch-in for super effective or neutral damage.

Team Options
========

* Reliable Fighting-type checks, such as Spritzee, Snubbull, Abra, and Mareanie are all capable of taking care of common Fighting-types in Timburr, Croagunk and Mienfoo and making it easier for Alolan Sandshrew to clean up late-game. Mention something like Foongus that can actually beat Croagunk.
* Setup sweepers, such as Vullaby, Carvanha and Timburr, appreciate Alolan Sandshrew's ability to weaken foes early-game and enable a more reliable late-game sweep.
* Knock Off support is very useful for Alolan Sandshrew, as it allows it to muscle past bulkier opponents to better success. Vullaby, Timburr, and Alolan Grimer are all capable of using Knock Off to support Alolan Sandshrew.
* Entry hazard support from Pokemon like Dwebble and Onix is also helpful for giving Alolan Sandshrew an easier time breaking through foes due to the chip damage they have taken.

Comments in bold. 2/3

 

[Drew]

Set
good

Moves

• Mention that Icicle Crash's chance to miss is also troublesome (may seem pointless, but it probably will deter more people due to people hating hax)
• At the end of the sentence on Earthquake, change "super-effectively" to "for super-effective damage" as it sounds kind of like Steel- and Fire-types wall Sandshrew quite effectively

Set Details
good, although I don't like some of the diction, but that's just personal preference

Usage Tips

• "hole puncher" sounds dumb and isn't really a recognizable term. Maybe change to wallbreaker or merely say "Sandshrew excels at tearing holes in opposing teams" or some such sentence.
• mention Pawniard as a Choice Scarf user, may be minor, but some players might mistakenly try and use A-Shrew to EQ Pawn away, and instead be greeted with a Brick Break to the face.

Team Options

• Don't use Chinchou as your first example as a Water-type check, just because before rereading I thought you want to check Chinchou, not that it was a check.
• Mention that hazard setters appreciate Sandshrew's Rapid Spin

Idk where to put this, but mention that Sandshrew doesn't have the ability to bluff not being scarf like other Choice Scarf users.

Some of these were really nitpicky, but I just want this to be really good! Overall, great job. You have done justice to my boi.

 

[Nineage]

Agree with what drew said except this point:

Mention that hazard setters appreciate Sandshrew's Rapid Spin

Hazard setters as a general group don't particularly appreciate Rapid Spin. However, both of the Pokemon he gave often use a Sturdy set, so perhaps note that Ashrew can keep the field clear for those particular pokemon because of sturdy.

On to my thoughts:

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

• Explain how rapid spin turns it into setup bait (locked into a shitass move)
• I'd talk a little bit about how Icicle Crash can be helpful in situations where you need more reliable damage and 2 hits won't cut it also, but emphasize again that the majority of the time Spear is better since u usually roll more than two hits

Set Details
========

• A few examples of rolls with this attack spread please (my god im turning into AD Thunderboy)
• The final sentence I think implies that hail is more common than it is. Emphasize a little more how niche this situation is, but that there isn't something better to use

Usage Tips
========

• Specify what you mean when talking about scouting out foes (specify that you mean ascertaining whether they have a scarf)
• I'd make the fighting-type priority thing its own sentence in here since avoiding that is pretty crucial. You can split the sentence its in to fighting types checking it in general, and then just avoid fighting type priority users
• Although its pretty self-explanatory on a Scarf mon, talk about when to bring ashrew in (free switches and maybe weak resisted hits)

Team Options
========

• I think this whole section is too reactive. What Pokemon/team archetypes appreciate having Ashrew, as opposed to shrew appreciating them? I'd imagine things that bring in Flying- and Grass- types like Diglett appreciate that shrew can revenge kill doduo, foongus, etc. There are others which I'm sure you can think of here...
• Kind of specific suggestion, but I'd mention bulky waters like Slowpoke (especially), and also Marinara here. They tend to have great synergy with ashrew (poke especially), and fit well onto the bulky O teams that appreciate shrews ability to KO common wallbreakers

Well done as usual, 3/3

 

[Sobi]

Hide

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Icicle Spear
move 2: Iron Head
move 3: Rapid Spin
move 4: Earthquake
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Slush Rush
nature: 236 Atk / 76 SpD / 196 Spe
evs: Jolly

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

Icicle Spear is Alolan Sandshrew's STAB move of choice, (RC) and (consider removing this, seems kinda fluffy) is a powerful multi-hit move that allows Alolan Sandshrew to break Focus Sash, Sturdy, and Substitute, as well as heavily damage unboosted Weak Armor Vullaby. Iron Head is a powerful secondary STAB move that hits Fairy-types such as Spritzee and Snubbull for sufficient damage, (RC) while also hitting targets resistant to Icicle Spear, (RC) like Alolan Vulpix and Munchlax for an OHKO in the case of, OHKOing the former and a 2HKOing the latter's case. Rapid Spin gives Alolan Sandshrew a reliable way of quickly clearing the field of entry hazards and allows it to support its team. It does, however, risk turning Alolan Sandshrew into setup bait by locking it onto into an extremely weak move. Earthquake is useful for hitting Fire-types such as Ponyta and Vulpix and Steel-types likes like Pawniard and Magnemite, all of which otherwise wall Alolan Sandshrew, for super effective damage. Icicle Crash is an option over Icicle Spear, as it allows Alolan Sandslash to hit Mudbray for more consistent damage and hit harder than a 2two-hit Icicle Spear. It is also helpful for situations in which a 2two-hit Icicle Spear won't be capable of revenge killing a foe, such as Vullaby. However, this generally isn't preferred due to the better damage rolls Icicle Spear will usually score due to Little Cup's damage roll mechanics, as well as the move's worse accuracy.

Set Details
========

Maximized Speed EVs with a Jolly nature and Choice Scarf allow Alolan Sandshrew to hit 21 Speed and outpace the entire unboosted metagame. Maximized Attack EVs are useful for allowing Alolan Sandshrew to hit as hard as possible and dent a decent portion of the metagame with its attacks, notably OHKOing Weak Armor Vullaby with three hits of Icicle Spear, (RC) and OHKOing offensive variants of Ponyta with Earthquake. The remaining EVs are invested into its lackluster Special Defense, as Alolan Sandshrew's physical bulk is already high enough to justify further boosting its rather lackluster special bulk. Slush Rush is the preferred ability, as it allows Alolan Sandshrew to outpace all Pokemon that outpace it with afaster Choice Scarf equippedPokemon, such as Doduo and Rufflet, if hail happens to be summoned during the match.

Usage Tips
========

Thanks to the good Speed Choice Scarf provides Alolan Sandshrew's good Speed with, it is capable of revenge killing Pokemon like Diglett and Cottonee, as well as tearing holes in teams early-game, (AC) or cleaning up late-game once its checks are removed or weakened. Choice Scarf Alolan Sandshrew's good Speed with a Choice Scarf also allows it to function as a fairly reliable emergency stop to Nasty Plot Vullaby, who's whose Weak Armor ability leaves it extremely susceptible to an OHKO from Icicle Spear unless the move only hits twice. Despite its good high Speed with a Choice Scarf equipped, Alolan Sandshrew is still outsped and threatened by other common Choice Scarf users in like Mienfoo, Rufflet, (AC) and Chinchou. As a result, these Pokemon must have their Choice Scarfs scouted out on opposing teams to make full use of Alolan Sandshrew. Another big concern of Alolan Sandshrew's is the tier's prevalence of Fighting-types like Mienfoo, Timburr, and Scraggy, which will either tank a hit and OHKO Alolan Sandshrew. As a result Therefore, (repetition) opposing Fighting-types should always be switched out of unless weakened, and they must be removed before Alolan Sandshrew attempts to clean late-game. Alolan Sandshrew is capable of utilizing its Slush Rush ability under the circumstance that the opponent's team has a hail setter to outpace every Choice Scarf user in the metagame, thus allowing it to rip holes in the opposing team for as long as hail is active, though it's worth noting that these circumstances are rather rare. When predicting the switch into a Pokemon resistant to its STAB attacks, Alolan Sandshrew should either use Rapid Spin to remove entry hazards from its team's side of the field, (RC) or Earthquake to hit the potential switch-in for super effective or neutral damage. It should be noted, however, that being locked onto into Rapid Spin can easily make Alolan Sandshrew setup bait, (RC) due to the move's low Base Power. Lastly, due to its role as a revenge killer, it is best that Alolan Sandshrew is brought into play carefully, such as on weak resisted hits or after a teammate has fainted.

Team Options
========

Due to this set's role as a revenge killer, Alolan Sandshrew is most appreciated by offensive builds. Pokemon that bring in Flying- and Grass-types, such as Diglett, Cottonee, and Drilbur, (AC) appreciate Alolan Sandshrew's ability to remove the likes of Rufflet, Doduo, and Foongus for them. Pokemon that fear Diglett, such as Ponyta, Croagunk, and Chinchou, (AC) are also appreciative of Alolan Sandshrew, as its ability to revenge kill Diglett allows these Pokemon to perform their roles much more consistently. Reliable Fighting-type checks, such as Spritzee, Snubbull, Abra, and Foongus, (AC) are all capable of taking care of common Fighting-types in like Timburr, Croagunk and Mienfoo and making it easier for Alolan Sandshrew to clean up late-game, though the former two can't reliably check Croagunk. Despite its access to Earthquake, Alolan Sandshrew is still very susceptible to Fire-type Pokemon. As a result, Pokemon capable of removing Fire-types such as Diglett, Mudbray, and Tirtouga are all quite helpful as partners. Pokemon capable of removing that can remove (repetition) Water-types, such as Elekid, Chinchou, and Snivy, (AC) are also helpful, as Alolan Sandshrew's STAB attacks are resisted by most of LC's Water-types. Setup sweepers, such as Vullaby, Carvanha, and Timburr, appreciate Alolan Sandshrew's ability to weaken foes early-game and enable a more reliable late-game sweep. Knock Off support is very useful for Alolan Sandshrew, as it allows it to muscle past bulkier opponents foes to better success. Vullaby, Timburr, and Alolan Grimer are all capable of using Knock Off to support Alolan Sandshrew. Entry hazard support from Pokemon like Dwebble and Onix is also helpful for giving Alolan Sandshrew an easier time breaking through foes due to the chip damage they have taken. Lastly, bulky Water-types like Mareanie and particularly Slowpoke make great teammates, as they fit well on the bulky offense teams that Alolan Sandshrew thrives on and generally have good synergy with it.

amcheck

 

[P Squared]

personally I appreciate a good passive sentence but you go a bit overboard! active voice is a lot easier for readers to quickly scan through. also this applies to you too

make sure to close your commas when writing lists. if it helps you can mentally replace the commas with parentheses to see whether it makes sense. example:

Grass-type Pokemon, such as Seedot, Budew, and Oddish, are good options.
Grass-type Pokemon (such as Seedot, Budew, and Oddish) are good options. (correct)

Grass-type Pokemon, such as Seedot, Budew, and Oddish are good options.
Grass-type Pokemon (such as Seedot, Budew, and Oddish are good options. (where's the ending parenthesis?)

Grass-type Pokemon such as Seedot, Budew, and Oddish, are good options.
Grass-type Pokemon such as Seedot, Budew, and Oddish) are good options. (where's the opening parenthesis?)

GP 1/2

Hide

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Icicle Spear
move 2: Iron Head
move 3: Rapid Spin
move 4: Earthquake
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Slush Rush
nature: 236 Atk / 76 SpD / 196 Spe Jolly
evs: Jolly 236 Atk / 76 SpD / 196 Spe

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

Icicle Spear is Alolan Sandshrew's main STAB move of choice, and is a powerful multi-hit move that allows it Alolan Sandshrew to break Focus Sash, Sturdy, and Substitute, as well as heavily damage unboosted Weak Armor Vullaby. Iron Head is a powerful secondary STAB attack that hits Fairy-types such as Spritzee and Snubbull for sufficient damage, (RC) while also hitting targets resistant to Icicle Spear, (RC) like Alolan Vulpix and Munchlax, OHKOing the former and 2HKOing the latter for an OHKO in the case of the former and a 2HKO in the latter's case. Rapid Spin gives Alolan Sandshrew a reliable way of quickly clearing the field of entry hazards and allows it to support its team. It does, however, risk turning Alolan Sandshrew into setup bait by locking it into an extremely weak move. Earthquake is useful for hitting Fire-types such as Ponyta and Vulpix and Steel-types likes Pawniard and Magnemite, all of which otherwise wall Alolan Sandshrew, for super effective damage. Icicle Crash is an option over Icicle Spear, as it allows Alolan Sandslash to hit Mudbray for more consistent damage and hit harder than a 2two-hit Icicle Spear. It is also helpful for situations in which a 2two-hit Icicle Spear won't be capable of revenge killing a foe, such as Vullaby. However, this generally isn't preferred due to the better damage rolls Icicle Spear will usually score due to Little Cup's damage roll mechanics, as well as the move's worse accuracy.

Set Details
========

Maximized Speed EVs with a Jolly nature and Choice Scarf allow Alolan Sandshrew to hit 21 Speed and outpace the entire unboosted metagame. Maximized Attack EVs are useful for allowing Alolan Sandshrew to hit as hard as possible and dent a decent portion of the metagame with its attacks, notably OHKOing Weak Armor Vullaby with three hits of Icicle Spear, (RC) and OHKOing offensive variants of Ponyta with Earthquake. The remaining EVs are invested into Special Defense, as Alolan Sandshrew's physical bulk is already high enough to justify further boosting its rather lackluster special bulk. Slush Rush is the preferred ability, as it allows Alolan Sandshrew to outpace all Pokemon that outpace it with a Choice Scarf equipped, such as Doduo and Rufflet, if hail happens to be summoned during the match.

Usage Tips
========

Thanks to the good Speed Choice Scarf provides Alolan Sandshrew with, it is capable of revenge killing Pokemon like Diglett and Cottonee, as well as tearing holes in teams early-game or cleaning up late-game once its checks are removed or weakened. Alolan Sandshrew's good Speed with a Choice Scarf also allows it to function as a fairly reliable emergency stop to Nasty Plot Vullaby, whose who's Weak Armor ability leaves it extremely susceptible to an OHKO from Icicle Spear unless the move only hits twice. Despite its good Speed with a Choice Scarf equipped, Alolan Sandshrew is still outsped and threatened by other common Choice Scarf users in Mienfoo, Rufflet, (add comma) and Chinchou. As a result, these Pokemon must have their Choice Scarves Scarfs scouted out on opposing teams to make full use of Alolan Sandshrew. Another big concern of Alolan Sandshrew's is the tier's prevalence of Fighting-types like Mienfoo, Timburr, and Scraggy, which will either tank a hit and OHKO Alolan Sandshrew (or did you mean "either tank a hit or OHKO Alolan Sandshrew"?). As a result, you should always switch Alolan Sandshrew out of healthy opposing Fighting-types should always be switched out of unless weakened, and removed them before Alolan Sandshrew attempts to clean late-game. If the opponent has a hail setter, Alolan Sandshrew is capable of utilizing its Slush Rush ability under the circumstance that the opponent's team has a hail setter to outpace every Choice Scarf user in the metagame, thus allowing it to rip holes in the opposing team for as long as hail is active, though it's worth noting that these circumstances are rather rare. When predicting the switch into a Pokemon resistant to its STAB attacks, Alolan Sandshrew should either use Rapid Spin to remove entry hazards from its team's side of the field, (RC) or use Earthquake to hit the potential switch-in for super effective or neutral damage. It should be noted, however, that being locked onto Rapid Spin can easily make Alolan Sandshrew setup bait, due to the move's low Base Power. Lastly, due to its role as a revenge killer, it is best to bring that Alolan Sandshrew is brought into play carefully, such as on weak resisted hits or after a teammate has fainted.

Team Options
========

Due to this set's role as a revenge killer, Alolan Sandshrew is most appreciated by offensive builds. Pokemon that bring in Flying- and Grass-types, such as Diglett, Cottonee, and Drilbur, (add comma) appreciate Alolan Sandshrew's ability to remove the likes of Rufflet, Doduo, and Foongus for them. Pokemon that fear Diglett, such as Ponyta, Croagunk, and Chinchou, (add comma) are also appreciative of Alolan Sandshrew, as its ability to revenge kill Diglett allows these Pokemon to perform their roles much more consistently. Reliable Fighting-type checks, such as Spritzee, Snubbull, Abra, and Foongus, (add comma) are all capable of taking care of common Fighting-types in Timburr, Croagunk and Mienfoo and making it easier for Alolan Sandshrew to clean up late-game, though the former two can't reliably check Croagunk. Despite its access to Earthquake, Alolan Sandshrew is still very susceptible to Fire-type Pokemon. As a result, Pokemon capable of removing Fire-types such as Diglett, Mudbray, and Tirtouga are all quite helpful as partners. Pokemon capable of removing Water-types, such as Elekid, Chinchou, and Snivy, (add comma) are also helpful, as Alolan Sandshrew's STAB attacks are resisted by most of LC's Water-types. Setup sweepers, such as Vullaby, Carvanha, and Timburr, appreciate Alolan Sandshrew's ability to weaken foes early-game and enable facilitate a more reliable late-game sweep. Knock Off support is very useful for Alolan Sandshrew, allowing as it allows it to muscle past bulkier foes with opponents to better success. Vullaby, Timburr, and Alolan Grimer are all capable of using Knock Off to support Alolan Sandshrew. Entry hazard support from Pokemon like Dwebble and Onix is also helpful for giving Alolan Sandshrew an easier time breaking through foes due to the chip damage they have taken. Lastly, bulky Water-types like Mareanie and particularly Slowpoke make great teammates, as they fit well on the bulky offense teams that Alolan Sandshrew thrives on and generally have good synergy with it.

 

[Wob]

good work!
add remove comments

Hide

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Icicle Spear
move 2: Iron Head
move 3: Rapid Spin
move 4: Earthquake
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Slush Rush
nature: Jolly
evs: 236 Atk / 76 SpD / 196 Spe

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

Icicle Spear is Alolan Sandshrew's main STAB move and is a powerful multi-hit move that allows it to break Focus Sash, Sturdy, and Substitute, as well as heavily damage unboosted Weak Armor Vullaby. Iron Head is a powerful secondary STAB attack that hits Fairy-types such as Spritzee and Snubbull for sufficient damage while also hitting targets resistant to Icicle Spear like Alolan Vulpix and Munchlax, OHKOing the former and 2HKOing the latter. Rapid Spin gives Alolan Sandshrew a reliable way of quickly clearing the field of entry hazards and allows it to support its team. It does, however, risk turning Alolan Sandshrew into setup bait by locking it into an extremely weak move. Earthquake is useful for hitting Fire-types such as Ponyta and Vulpix and Steel-types likes Pawniard and Magnemite, all of which otherwise wall Alolan Sandshrew, for super effective damage. Icicle Crash is an option over Icicle Spear, as it allows Alolan Sandslash Alolan Sandshrew to hit Mudbray for more consistent damage and hit harder than a two-hit Icicle Spear. It is also helpful for situations in which a two-hit Icicle Spear won't be capable of revenge killing a foe, such as Vullaby. However, this generally isn't preferred due to the better damage rolls Icicle Spear will usually score due to Little Cup's damage roll mechanics, as well as the move's worse accuracy.

Set Details
========

Maximized Speed EVs with a Jolly nature and Choice Scarf allow Alolan Sandshrew to hit 21 Speed and outpace the entire unboosted metagame. Maximized Attack EVs are useful for allowing Alolan Sandshrew to hit as hard as possible and dent a decent portion of the metagame with its attacks, notably OHKOing Weak Armor Vullaby with three hits of a three-hit (it's better if this is consistent throughout the analysis) Icicle Spear and OHKOing offensive variants of Ponyta with Earthquake. The remaining EVs are invested into Special Defense, as Alolan Sandshrew's physical bulk is already high enough to justify further boosting its rather lackluster special bulk. Slush Rush allows Alolan Sandshrew to outpace all Pokemon Choice Scarf users that normally outpace it with a Choice Scarf equipped, such as Doduo and Rufflet, if hail happens to be summoned during the match.

Usage Tips
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Thanks to the good Speed Choice Scarf provides Alolan Sandshrew with, it is capable of revenge killing Pokemon like Diglett and Cottonee, as well as tearing holes in teams early-game or cleaning up late-game once its checks are removed or weakened. Alolan Sandshrew's good Speed with a Choice Scarf also allows it to function as a fairly reliable emergency stop to Nasty Plot Vullaby, whose Weak Armor ability leaves it extremely susceptible to an OHKO from Icicle Spear unless the move only hits twice. Despite its good Speed with a Choice Scarf equipped, Alolan Sandshrew is still outsped and threatened by other common Choice Scarf users in Mienfoo, Rufflet, and Chinchou. As a result, these Pokemon must have their Choice Scarves scouted out on opposing teams to make full use of Alolan Sandshrew. Another big concern of Alolan Sandshrew is the tier's prevalence of Fighting-types like Mienfoo, Timburr, and Scraggy, which will tank a hit and OHKO Alolan Sandshrew. As a result, you should always switch Alolan Sandshrew out of healthy Fighting-types and remove them before Alolan Sandshrew attempts to clean late-game. If the opponent has a hail setter, Alolan Sandshrew is capable of utilizing its Slush Rush ability to outpace every Choice Scarf user in the metagame, thus allowing it to rip holes in the opposing team for as long as hail is active, though it's worth noting that these circumstances are rather rare. When predicting the switch into a Pokemon resistant to its STAB attacks, Alolan Sandshrew should either use Rapid Spin to remove entry hazards from its team's side of the field or use Earthquake to hit the potential switch-in for super effective or neutral damage. It should be noted, however, that being locked onto Rapid Spin can easily make Alolan Sandshrew setup bait, due to the move's low Base Power. Lastly, due to its role as a revenge killer, it is best to bring Alolan Sandshrew into play carefully, such as on weak resisted hits or after a teammate has fainted.

Team Options
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Due to this set's role as a revenge killer, Alolan Sandshrew is most appreciated by offensive builds. Pokemon that bring in Flying- and Grass-types, such as Diglett, Cottonee, and Drilbur, appreciate Alolan Sandshrew's ability to remove the likes of Rufflet, Doduo, and Foongus for them. Pokemon that fear Diglett, such as Ponyta, Croagunk, and Chinchou, are also appreciative of Alolan Sandshrew, as its ability to revenge kill Diglett allows these Pokemon to perform their roles much more consistently. Reliable Fighting-type checks, such as Spritzee, Snubbull, Abra, and Foongus, are all capable of taking care of common Fighting-types in Timburr, Croagunk and Mienfoo and making it easier for Alolan Sandshrew to clean up late-game, though the former two can't reliably check Croagunk. Despite its access to Earthquake, Alolan Sandshrew is still very susceptible to Fire-type Pokemon. As a result, Pokemon capable of removing Fire-types such as Diglett, Mudbray, and Tirtouga are all quite helpful as partners. Pokemon capable of removing Water-types, such as Elekid, Chinchou, and Snivy, are also helpful, as Alolan Sandshrew's STAB attacks are resisted by most of LC's Water-types. Setup sweepers, such as Vullaby, Carvanha, and Timburr, appreciate Alolan Sandshrew's ability to weaken foes early-game and facilitate a more reliable late-game sweep. Knock Off support from the likes of Vullaby, Timburr, and Alolan Grimer is very useful for Alolan Sandshrew, allowing it to muscle past bulkier foes with better success. Vullaby, Timburr, and Alolan Grimer are all capable of using Knock Off to support Alolan Sandshrew. Entry hazard support from Pokemon like Dwebble and Onix is also helpful for giving Alolan Sandshrew an easier time breaking through foes due to the chip damage they have taken. Lastly, bulky Water-types like Mareanie and particularly Slowpoke make great teammates, as they fit well on the bulky offense teams that Alolan Sandshrew thrives on and generally have good synergy with it.

GP 2/2

 

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