LC Clauncher [QC: 3/3] [GP: 2/2]

taken over from frenzyplant. skeleton credits to her, using it as a base and expanding.
Overview
########

Clauncher has solid bulk across the board that works well alongside U-turn, making for a bulky Water-type pivot. Although Clauncher has low Speed, it also has STAB priority in Aqua Jet, something that not many other Water-types are able to boast. However, Clauncher still struggles immensely to stand out in a tier packed with other Water-types, including Chinchou, Tirtouga, and Omanyte. Chinchou is Clauncher's greatest competition, as it fills the role of a bulky Water-type pivot arguably better than Clauncher does. Mega Launcher seems neat, but Clauncher lacks the moves its evolution has, most notably Aura Sphere and Dark Pulse. Though Clauncher has Aqua Jet, it's not very powerful and Clauncher's low Speed can still be easily exploited. Furthermore, Clauncher's offenses are quite lacking, and both of its weaknesses can prey on its lower Special Defense stat.

Pivot
########
name: Pivot
move 1: Scald / Water Pulse
move 2: Aqua Jet
move 3: Ice Beam
move 4: U-turn
ability: Mega Launcher
item: Eviolite
evs: 92 Atk / 180 Def / 132 SpA / 92 SpD
nature: Relaxed

Moves
========

Scald is a useful move because it punishes switch-ins with its high burn chance backed by decent power. Alternatively, Water Pulse receives a boost from Mega Launcher, which amplifies its power to the same strength as Surf, and has an added chance of confusion. Aqua Jet is a decent STAB priority move with the ability to pick off weakened foes and somewhat mitigate Clauncher's low Speed. Ice Beam hits frailer Grass-types and is able to OHKO Fletchling after Stealth Rock. Sludge Bomb is an option to hit Grass-types and Fairy-types, most notably Cottonee, as well, but the coverage against Flying-types that Ice Beam provides is much more useful to Clauncher. U-turn allows Clauncher to pivot out of its counters; it's not used primarily for its power or coverage.

Set Details
========

With the given EV spread and Eviolite, Clauncher's bulk is boosted to a solid spread of 21 / 24 / 21. This bulk can only be achieved with Eviolite; thus, Berry Juice is not advised. A Relaxed nature lowers Clauncher's Speed to ensure that its U-turn to pivot into foes is slower and thus almost always a safe move. 100 Defense EVs and 172 Special Defense EVs alongside a Sassy nature could be used to let Clauncher take on special attackers, but Clauncher should focus on taking on physical attacks because its weaknesses are primarily special. 132 Special Attack EVs give Clauncher a two-point boost to its Special Attack, allowing its attacks to be stronger.

Usage Tips
========

Clauncher should be used as a pivot to come in, take hits, and then use U-turn to switch into a counter to the opposing Pokemon. U-turn should be played smartly, as a well-timed U-turn can easily get Clauncher out of a risky situation; this is most effective when used on predicted switches. Scald should be your main attack, as thanks to its high chance to burn it dissuades physical attackers. Because Clauncher lacks reliable recovery and is susceptible to all forms of entry hazards, be careful about switching Clauncher in and out too much because it will get worn down very quickly.

Team Options
========

Removing entry hazards is crucial to Clauncher's success; Drilbur, Staryu, Archen, and Vullaby are able to do so effectively. This is because Clauncher switches a lot and will thus get worn down extremely quickly if entry hazards are up. Forming a VoltTurn core with Clauncher is a good idea because as a Water-type, it naturally fits into these cores. Larvesta and Mienfoo also have U-turn, while Magnemite has Volt Switch. Chinchou stands out as a partner because it fits well in a VoltTurn core and provides Heal Bell support, along with having decent synergy with Clauncher. Cleric support from the likes of Spritzee and Lickitung is appreciated because Clauncher lacks reliable recovery and is worn down quickly by status, entry hazards, and just generally switching into attacks. Partners that can take on Grass- and Electric-type Pokemon for Clauncher, such as Foongus and Magnemite, are helpful. Frailer sweepers, such as Abra and Gastly, appreciate Clauncher's ability to stomach hits for them and pivot into them with a slow U-turn.

Other Options
########

Clauncher has access to coverage moves ranging from Rock Slide and Flash Cannon to various Hidden Powers, all of which have their uses. Generally, though, it's often best to stick to the coverage on the listed set because it achieves the maximum coverage possible. However, Hidden Power Fire is of notable mention because it can blast past Ferroseed. Hidden Power Grass is also an option to hit Chinchou, but Chinchou usually avoids the 2HKO, making it not worthwhile. While it might seem odd, running Hidden Power Psychic is viable to hit Croagunk. Solely physical or solely special sets could be used, but Clauncher is mainly outclassed by Carvanha, Tirtouga, and Corphish as a physical attacker and by Chinchou, Staryu, Clamperl, and Omanyte as a special attacker. Sludge Wave muscles past Chespin, but Ice Beam hits it regardless and Poison-type moves have poor coverage. Mixed sets with more investment in Speed EVs or a Choice Scarf equipped are options but once again, Clauncher is outclassed by Omanyte and other Water-types in these roles: Clauncher's edge as a pivot lies in its bulk, which it must forfeit if it invests in Speed.

Checks & Counters
########

**Strong Special Attackers**: Special attacks from the likes of Abra and Gastly take advantage of Clauncher's low Special Defense. However, both of these Pokemon must watch out for Aqua Jet and dislike switching directly into Clauncher. It's also important to note that because Clauncher has access to U-turn, it can usually pivot out of its counters.

**Electric-types**: Chinchou can beat Clauncher quite easily because of its Electric-type STAB moves and ability to take all of Clauncher's attacks. The only move it has to worry about is the very uncommon Hidden Power Grass, which even bulkier then is stomached by bulkier sets. Magnemite is also a counter because it easily KOes Clauncher with its Electric-type attacks and doesn't mind Clauncher's attacks much.

**Grass-types**: Grass-types resist Clauncher's STAB moves and can KO it in return with their own STAB attacks: Foongus shrugs off Ice Beam and keeps itself healthy via Regenerator, while Ferroseed punishes U-turn with Iron Barbs.

**Residual Damage**: Clauncher is very prone to being worn down by entry hazards, status, and various attacks because of its lack of recovery. Clauncher is susceptible to all entry hazards and statuses as well, so it really has to be careful.

**Bulkier Pokemon**: Bulkier Pokemon, often carrying Eviolite, are able to stomach Clauncher's hits quite easily. These Pokemon include Porygon and Spritzee, which can comfortably take all of Clauncher's attacks and recover health via Recover and Wish, respectively. Croagunk shrugs off all of Clauncher's attacks and recovers health when switching into its Water-type STAB moves thanks to Dry Skin. However, not all of these Pokemon can actually do a lot to Clauncher in return other than take advantage of its lack of recovery to slowly wear it down, and Clauncher can just use U-turn to pivot out.
 
Last edited:
Overview: You mention solid bulk and then state that it has underwhelming stats in general which contradicts that. Just say its speed and attacking stats are underwhelming/

Moves: The reason to use Scald is that it can burn, include that in this section.

Usage Tips: Change "thanks to its high chance to burn it dissuades physical changes." to "thanks to its high chance to burn it dissuades physical attackers." or something similar.

Team Options: Add teammates that can take grass and electric moves for Clauncher. Foongus is a good example.

Other Options: Sludge bomb deserves a mention specifically for Cottonee, but it still hits some grass types like Chespin.

Checks&Counters:
Include grass types and Foongus specifically. The calculators down, but I doubt it would even 2HKO. Even if it did, due to Regenerator it has no troubles scouting out Clauncher's move. Ferroseed should be mentioned too. It also punishes Clauncher's U-Turn through Iron Barbs
Include Magnemite somewhere.

Nice job, QC 1/3
 

boltsandbombers

i'm sorry mr. man
is a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Social Media Contributor Alumnusis a Forum Moderator Alumnusis a Community Contributor Alumnusis a Top Contributor Alumnus
Overview: You mention solid bulk and then state that it has underwhelming stats in general which contradicts that. Just say its speed and attacking stats are underwhelming/

Moves: The reason to use Scald is that it can burn, include that in this section.

Usage Tips: Change "thanks to its high chance to burn it dissuades physical changes." to "thanks to its high chance to burn it dissuades physical attackers." or something similar.

Team Options: Add teammates that can take grass and electric moves for Clauncher. Foongus is a good example.

Other Options: Sludge bomb deserves a mention specifically for Cottonee, but it still hits some grass types like Chespin.

Checks&Counters:
Include grass types and Foongus specifically. The calculators down, but I doubt it would even 2HKO. Even if it did, due to Regenerator it has no troubles scouting out Clauncher's move. Ferroseed should be mentioned too. It also punishes Clauncher's U-Turn through Iron Barbs
Include Magnemite somewhere.

Nice job, QC 1/3
Fyi - Chespin can't be hit with Sludge Bomb thanks to bulletproof :P
 
In Overview, I suggest removing Froakie, a mon that is extremely mediocre in the LC metagame, and replacing it with Corphish or even Omanyte.

In Team Options, mention Chinchou in the VoltTurn section, due to Chinchou not really having too bad of synergy with other Water-types. Rather than "a safe U-turn," say "a slow U-turn." (where you mention strong, but frail, mons)

In Other Options, rather than mentioning Froakie (while listing special water-types that outclass Clauncher), again, list Omanyte. Rather than "and Sludge Bomb has poor coverage," say "Poison-type has poor coverage"? (You did mention two different Poison-type moves). You can also probably mention HPPsychic in Other Options with HPFire since it kills Croagunk, after Croagunk switches in expecting to recover off a Water STAB. In the Choice Scarf section, replace Froakie with Chinchou.
 
i dont really understand the spread, but i guess it works. also implement pancham's suggestions, they're valid, and add croagunk to c&c. dont see much else to change, 2/3
 

Corporal Levi

ninjadog of the decade
is a Community Contributoris a Top Tiering Contributoris a Top Contributoris a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Team Rater Alumnusis a Social Media Contributor Alumnusis a Community Leader Alumnus
Overview:
Keep Chinchou but I wouldn't really consider Omanyte competition for a bulky pivot.

Bulky Mixed Attacker:
Ice Beam doesn't hit Foongus or Cottonee all that hard, usually failing to 2HKO Foongus after Stealth Rock. Just say that it provides coverage against frailer Grass-types and OHKOs Fletchling after Stealth Rock.

Set Details:
Explain why Clauncher should focus on taking physical attacks (Electric- and Grass-type attacks are primarily special).

Other Options:
Mention that bulkier Chinchou variants will be able to take Hidden Power Grass fairly easily, so it's not really worth using.

Checks and Counters:
However, not all of these Pokemon can actually do a lot to Clauncher in return other than take advantage of its lack of recovery to slowly wear it down, and Clauncher can just end up using U-turn to pivot out.

Well done
QC 3/3
 
Other Options:
Speedier/Scarf sets of Omanyte aren't really used, a better example here would be Froakie. I know this isn't a good pokemon, but it does this job so much better than Clauncher.
You could mention running 0 IVs to underspeed things like Spritzee and standard Croagunk to give a free switch for another pokemon.

Checks and Counters:
Add Water-types: Can't do much to them, they wear it down. Ones with coverage moves to hit Clauncher such as Staryu w/ tbolt deserve a mention.
Water Immunities: Same deal; Clauncher can't really hurt them and they will wear it down. Give Croagunk and Mantyke/Frillish specific mentions.

Take it to GP afterwards!
 

Psywaves

Procrastinating Pedantic Perfectionist™
is a Contributor Alumnus
Amateur check here; feel free to implement whatever stuff you feel is necessary. :]
Add
Capitalise/capital -> lower case
Remove
Comments

Overview
########

Clauncher has solid bulk across the board which works well alongside U-turn, making for a bulky Water-type pivot. Although Clauncher has low Speed, it also has STAB priority in Aqua Jet, something that not many other Water-types are able to boast. However, Clauncher still struggles immensely to stand out in a tier packed with other Water-types such as Chinchou, Omanyte, and more. Chinchou is Clauncher's greatest competition, as it fills the role of a bulky Water-type pivot arguably better than Clauncher. Mega Launcher seems neat, but Clauncher lacks the moves its evolution does has, primarily notably Aura Sphere and Dark Pulse. Though Clauncher has Aqua Jet, it's still not exactly the most powerful move in the world and Clauncher still has low Speed that can be easily taken advantage of. Furthermore, Clauncher's offenses are quite lacking and it once again, it receives competition from other Water-types. Clauncher also has two exploitable weaknesses that can and foes can prey on Clauncher'its lower Special Defense stat.

Bulky Mixed Attacker
########
name: Bulky Mixed Attacker
move 1: Scald / Water Pulse
move 2: Aqua Jet
move 3: Ice Beam
move 4: U-turn
ability: Mega Launcher
item: Eviolite
evs: 92 Atk / 180 Def / 132 SpA / 92 SpD
nature: Relaxed

Moves
========

Scald is a useful move because it punishes switch-ins (add hyphen; I assume that Scald punishes the Pokémon that switch in on Clauncher) with its high burn probability chance backed by decent power. Water Pulse receives a boost from Mega Launcher and amplifies its power to the same strength as Surf, with an added chance of confusion. Aqua Jet is a decent STAB priority move with the ability to pick off weakened foes and somewhat mitigates Clauncher's low Speed. Ice Beam hits frailer Grass-types and is able to OHKO Fletchling after Stealth Rock; however, Sludge Bomb is also an option to hit Grass-types along with Fairy-types as well, but the coverage against Flying-types that Ice Beam provides is much more useful to Clauncher. U-turn is a useful move to allow Clauncher to pivot out of its counters, though it's not primarily used for its power or coverage by any means.

Set Details
========

With Eviolite, Clauncher's bulk is boosted to a solid spread of 21 / 24 / 21. This bulk can only be achieved with 180 Defense EVs and 92 Special Defense EVs; thus, Berry Juice is not advised. A Relaxed nature lowers Clauncher's Speed to ensure that its U-turn to pivot into foes is slower and thus is almost always a safe move. Running 100 Defense EVs / 172 Special Defense EVs could be used alongside a Sassy nature to take on special attackers, but Clauncher should focus on taking on physical attacks because its weaknesses are primarily exploited by primarily special attacks. 132 SpAecial Attack EVs provide Clauncher with a boost to its Special Attack by two points, which allows its attacks to be a tiny bit stronger.

Usage Tips
========

Clauncher should be used as a pivot to come in, take hits, then use U-turn to get bring into a counter of to its own checks and counters. U-turn should be played smartly, as a well-timed U-turn can easily get Clauncher out of a risky situation; this is often best on predicted switches. Scald should be the main focus in terms of attacking, however, thanks to its high chance to burn it dissuades physical attackers from switching in. Because Clauncher lacks reliable recovery and it's susceptible to all forms of entry hazards, be careful about switching Clauncher in and out too much because it will get worn down very quickly.

Team Options
========

Removing entry hazards is crucial to Clauncher's success; Drilbur, Staryu, Archen, and Vullaby, are able to remove entry hazards. this is because Clauncher switches a lot and will thus get worn down extremely quickly by entry hazards. Drilbur, Staryu, Archen, and Vullaby are able to remove entry hazards. Forming a VoltTurn core with Clauncher is a good idea because it naturally fits into these cores; adding a Water-type added to the VoltTurn core is always a good idea! Larvesta and Mienfoo also have U-turn, while Magnemite has Volt Switch. Chinchou stands out as a partner because it fits in the core and provides Heal Bell support, along with having decent synergy with Clauncher. Baton Pass could also be used in this core, but this is a lot less common (possibly state why this is the case). Wish and cleric (added the Wish bit because Spritzee and Lickitung can provide said support, and it helps Clauncher regain health from switching in and hazards) support from the likes of Spritzee and Lickitung is appreciated because Clauncher lacks reliable recovery and is worn down quickly by status, entry hazards, or just generally switching in. Partners, (RC) such as Foongus and Magnemite, (RC) that can take on Grass- and Electric-type Pokemon for Clauncher are helpful. Frailer sweepers, (RC) such as Abra and Gastly, (RC) appreciate having Clauncher to stomach hits for them and pivot into them with a slow U-turn.

Other Options
########

Clauncher has access to coverage moves ranging from Rock Slide, to Flash Cannon, to various Hidden Powers, all of which have their uses., (full stop/period -> comma) Generally, though generally, it's often best to stick to the coverage moves on the listed set as this achieves the maximum coverage possible. However, Hidden Power Fire deserves a notable mention because it can blast past Ferroseed. Hidden Power Grass also is an option to hit Chinchou, (AC) but Chinchou usually avoids the 2HKO regardless, thus making it not worthwhile. While it might seem odd, running Hidden Power Psychic is viable to hit Croagunk. Running a solely physical or solely special sets could be used is a possibility, but this is where Clauncher is mainly outclassed.(full stop/period -> emdash)—Carvanha, Tirtouga, and Corphish, (RC) outclass it as a physical attacker while Chinchou, Staryu, Clamperl, and Omanyte, (RC) outclass int terms of as a special attacker. Sludge Bomb hits Cottonee hard, while Sludge Wave muscles past Chespin(this is subjective but "muscle" tends to be associated with physical moves, at least to my knowledge), but Ice Beam hits both regardless and Poison-type has poor coverage. A mixed attacking speedier sets or Choice Scarf sets with mixed attacks is an are both options but, (RC) once again, Clauncher is outclassed by Omanyte and other Water-types. Clauncher's edge lies in its bulk and access to both U-turn and Aqua Jet.

Checks & Counters
########

**Strong Special Attackers**: Special attacks from the likes of Abra or Gastly are enough to take advantage of Clauncher's low Special Defense. However, both of these Pokemon must watch out for Aqua Jet and dislike switching directly into Clauncher. It's also important to note that because Clauncher has access to U-turn, it can theoretically pivot out of its counters.

**Electric-types**: Chinchou can beat Clauncher quite easily because of its Electric-type STAB moves and ability to take all of Clauncher's attacks. The only move it has to potentially worry about is the very uncommon Hidden Power Grass, which even bulkier sets are able to stomach. Otherwise, Chinchou is a full counter. Magnemite as well is a counter as well because it easily KOes Clauncher with its Electric-type attacks and doesn't mind taking Clauncher'its attacks much.

**Grass-types**: Grass-types resist Clauncher's STAB moves and can KO it in return with their own STAB moves; Foongus shrugs off Ice Beam and keeps itself healthy via Regenerator, while Ferroseed punishes U-turn with Iron Barbs.

**Residual Damage**: Clauncher is very prone to being worn down by all meanforms of residual damage because of its lack of recovery; this ranges from entry hazard damage, statuses, and being worn down by the opponent. Clauncher's susceptible to all forms of entry hazards damage and statuses as well, so it really has to be careful.

**Bulkier Pokemon**: Bulkier Pokemon, often carrying Eviolite, are able to stomach Clauncher's hits quite easily. These Pokemon include Porygon or and Spritzee, which can comfortabley take all of Clauncher's attacks and recover health via Recover or Wish, respectively. Croagunk shrugs off any and all of Clauncher's attacks and heals damage when switching into its Water-type STAB moves (subjective, but Clauncher only gets STAB on Water-type moves). However, not all of these Pokemon can actually do a lot to Clauncher in return other than take advantage of its lack of recovery to slowly wear it down, and Clauncher can just end up usinge U-turn to pivot out.
 

frenzyplant

Inertia is a property of matter.
is a Top Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Media Contributor Alumnus
1/2 unfixable :)

add remove (comments)

Overview
########

Clauncher has solid bulk across the board that which works well alongside U-turn, making for a bulky Water-type pivot. Although Clauncher has low Speed, it also has STAB priority in Aqua Jet, something that not many other Water-types are able to boast. However, Clauncher still struggles immensely to stand out in a tier packed with other Water-types, including such as Chinchou, Tirtouga, and Omanyte, and more. Chinchou is Clauncher's greatest competition, as it fills the role of a bulky Water-type pivot arguably better than Clauncher does. Mega Launcher seems neat, but Clauncher lacks the moves its evolution has does, most notably primarily Aura Sphere and Dark Pulse. Though Clauncher has Aqua Jet, it's not very powerful still not exactly the most powerful move in the world and Clauncher's still has low Speed that can still be easily exploited taken advantage of. Furthermore, Clauncher's offenses are quite lacking, and both of its and it once again receives competition from other Water-types. Clauncher also has two exploitable weaknesses that can prey on its Clauncher's lower Special Defense stat.

Bulky Mixed Attacker (consider changing these to "pivot" given the emphasis you place on that role in overview)
########
name: Bulky Mixed Attacker
move 1: Scald / Water Pulse
move 2: Aqua Jet
move 3: Ice Beam
move 4: U-turn
ability: Mega Launcher
item: Eviolite
evs: 92 Atk / 180 Def / 132 SpA / 92 SpD
nature: Relaxed

Moves
========

Scald is a useful move because it punishes switch-ins with its high burn chance Burn probability backed by decent power. Alternatively, Water Pulse receives a boost from Mega Launcher, which and amplifies its power to the same strength as Surf, (remove comma) with an added chance of confusion. Aqua Jet is a decent STAB priority move with the ability to pick off weakened foes and somewhat mitigates Clauncher's low Speed. Ice Beam hits frailer Grass-types and is able to OHKO Fletchling after Stealth Rock. (period); however, Sludge Bomb is also an option to hit Grass-types along with and Fairy-types, most notably Cottonee, as well, but the coverage against Flying-types that Ice Beam provides is much more useful to Clauncher. U-turn allows is a useful move to allow Clauncher to pivot out of its counters; (comma to semicolon) though it's not primarily used primarily for its power or coverage by any means.

Set Details
========

With the given EV spread and Eviolite, Clauncher's bulk is boosted to a solid spread of 21 / 24 / 21. This bulk can only be achieved with Eviolite 180 Defense EVs and 92 Special Defense EVs; thus, Berry Juice is not advised. A Relaxed nature lowers Clauncher's Speed to ensure that its U-turn to pivot into foes is slower and thus is almost always a safe move. Running 100 Defense EVs / and 172 Special Defense EVs could be used alongside a Sassy nature could be used to let Clauncher take on special attackers, but Clauncher should focus on taking on physical attacks because its weaknesses are primarily special. 132 Special Attack EVs provide give Clauncher a two-point boost to its Special Attack by two points, allowing which allows its attacks to be a tiny bit stronger.

Usage Tips
========

Clauncher should be used as a pivot to come in, take hits, and then use U-turn to switch get into a counter to the opposing Pokemon of its checks and counters. U-turn should be played smartly, as a well-timed U-turn can easily get Clauncher out of a risky situation; this is most effective when used often best on predicted switches. Scald should be your main attack the main focus in terms of attacking, as however, thanks to its high chance to burn it dissuades physical attackers. Because Clauncher lacks reliable recovery and it's susceptible to all forms of entry hazards, be careful about switching Clauncher in and out too much because it will get worn down very quickly.

Team Options
========

Removing entry hazards is crucial to Clauncher's success; Drilbur, Staryu, Archen, and Vullaby, (remove comma) are able to remove entry hazards. This is because Clauncher switches a lot and will thus get worn down extremely quickly if entry hazards are up. Forming a VoltTurn core with Clauncher is a good idea because as a Water-type, it naturally fits into these cores. (period); a Water-type added to the VoltTurn core is always a good idea! Larvesta and Mienfoo also have U-turn, while Magnemite has Volt Switch. Chinchou stands out as a partner because it fits well in a VoltTurn the core and provides Heal Bell support, along with having decent synergy with Clauncher. Baton Pass could also be used in this core, but this is a lot less common. Cleric support from the likes of Spritzee and Lickitung is appreciated because Clauncher lacks reliable recovery and is worn down quickly by status, entry hazards, and or just generally switching into attacks. Partners, such as Foongus and Magnemite, that can take on Grass- and Electric-type Pokemon for Clauncher, such as Foongus and Magnemite, are helpful. Frailer sweepers, such as Abra and Gastly, appreciate Clauncher to stomach hits for them and pivot into them with a slow U-turn.

Other Options
########

Clauncher has access to coverage moves ranging from Rock Slide, (remove comma) to Flash Cannon, (remove comma) to various Hidden Powers, all of which have their uses. Generally, though, it's often best to stick to the coverage on the listed set because it as this achieves the maximum coverage possible. However, Hidden Power Fire deserves a notable mention because it can blast past Ferroseed. Hidden Power Grass also is also an option to hit Chinchou but Chinchou usually avoids the 2HKO regardless, thus making it not worthwhile. While it might seem odd, running Hidden Power Psychic is viable to hit Croagunk. Running solely physical or solely special sets could be used, but this is where Clauncher is mainly outclassed by Carvanha, Tirtouga, and Corphish, outclass it as a physical attacker and by while Chinchou, Staryu, Clamperl, and Omanyte, outclass in terms of as a special attacker. Sludge Bomb hits Cottonee hard, while (mentioned in moves) Sludge Wave muscles past Chespin, but Ice Beam hits it both regardless and Poison-type moves have has poor coverage. Speedier or Choice Scarf mixed sets are or Choice Scarf sets with mixed attacks is an options, (comma) but, (remove comma) once again, Clauncher is outclassed by Omanyte and other Water-types in these roles: (period to colon) Clauncher's edge as a pivot lies in its bulk, which it must forfeit if it invests in Speed and access to both U-turn and Aqua Jet.

Checks & Counters
########

**Strong Special Attackers**: Special attacks from the likes of Abra or and Gastly are enough to take advantage of Clauncher's low Special Defense. However, both of these Pokemon must watch out for Aqua Jet and dislike switching directly into Clauncher. It's also important to note that because Clauncher has access to U-turn, it can theoretically usually pivot out of its counters.

**Electric-types**: Chinchou can beat Clauncher quite easily because of its Electric-type STAB moves and ability to take all of Clauncher's attacks. The only move it has to potentially worry about is the very uncommon Hidden Power Grass, which even bulkier sets are able to stomach. Otherwise, Chinchou is a full counter. Magnemite as well is also a counter because it easily KOes Clauncher with its Electric-type attacks and doesn't mind Clauncher's attacks much.

**Grass-types**: Grass-types resist Clauncher's STAB moves and can KO it in return with their own STAB moves; Foongus shrugs off Ice Beam and keeps itself healthy via Regenerator, while Ferroseed punishes U-turn with Iron Barbs.

**Residual Damage**: Clauncher is very prone to being worn down by entry hazards, status, and various attacks all means because of its lack of recovery; this ranges from entry hazard damage, statuses, and being worn down by the opponent. Clauncher's susceptible to all forms of entry hazards damage and statuses as well, so it really has to be careful.

**Bulkier Pokemon**: Bulkier Pokemon, often carrying Eviolite, are able to stomach Clauncher's hits quite easily. These Pokemon include Porygon and or Spritzee, which can comfortably take all of Clauncher's attacks and recover health via Recover and or Wish, respectively. Croagunk shrugs off any and all of Clauncher's attacks and heals damage recovers health when switching into its Water-type STAB moves thanks to Dry Skin. However, not all of these Pokemon can actually do a lot to Clauncher in return other than take advantage of its lack of recovery to slowly wear it down, and Clauncher can just use end up using U-turn to pivot out.
 
Overview
########

Clauncher has solid bulk across the board that works well alongside U-turn, making for a bulky Water-type pivot. Although Clauncher has low Speed, it also has STAB priority in Aqua Jet, something that not many other Water-types are able to boast. However, Clauncher still struggles immensely to stand out in a tier packed with other Water-types, including Chinchou, Tirtouga, and Omanyte. Chinchou is Clauncher's greatest competition, as it fills the role of a bulky Water-type pivot arguably better than Clauncher does. Mega Launcher seems neat, but Clauncher lacks the moves its evolution has, most notably Aura Sphere and Dark Pulse. Though Clauncher has Aqua Jet, it's not very powerful and Clauncher's low Speed can still be easily exploited. Furthermore, Clauncher's offenses are quite lacking, and both of its weaknesses can prey on its lower Special Defense stat.

Pivot
########
name: Pivot
move 1: Scald / Water Pulse
move 2: Aqua Jet
move 3: Ice Beam
move 4: U-turn
ability: Mega Launcher
item: Eviolite
evs: 92 Atk / 180 Def / 132 SpA / 92 SpD
nature: Relaxed

Moves
========

Scald is a useful move because it punishes switch-ins with its high burn chance backed by decent power. Alternatively, Water Pulse receives a boost from Mega Launcher, which amplifies its power to the same strength as Surf, and has an added chance of confusion. Aqua Jet is a decent STAB priority move with the ability to pick off weakened foes and somewhat mitigate Clauncher's low Speed. Ice Beam hits frailer Grass-types and is able to OHKO Fletchling after Stealth Rock. Sludge Bomb is also an option to hit Grass-types and Fairy-types, most notably Cottonee, as well, but the coverage against Flying-types that Ice Beam provides is much more useful to Clauncher. U-turn allows Clauncher to pivot out of its counters; it's not used primarily for its power or coverage.

Set Details
========

With the given EV spread and Eviolite, Clauncher's bulk is boosted to a solid spread of 21 / 24 / 21. This bulk can only be achieved with Eviolite; thus, Berry Juice is not advised. A Relaxed nature lowers Clauncher's Speed to ensure that its U-turn to pivot into foes is slower and thus almost always a safe move. 100 Defense EVs and 172 Special Defense EVs alongside a Sassy nature could be used to let Clauncher take on special attackers, but Clauncher should focus on taking on physical attacks because its weaknesses are primarily special. 132 Special Attack EVs give Clauncher a two-point boost to its Special Attack, allowing its attacks to be stronger.

Usage Tips
========

Clauncher should be used as a pivot to come in, take hits, and then use U-turn to switch into a counter to the opposing Pokemon. U-turn should be played smartly, as a well-timed U-turn can easily get Clauncher out of a risky situation; this is most effective when used on predicted switches. Scald should be your main attack, as thanks to its high chance to burn it dissuades physical attackers. Because Clauncher lacks reliable recovery and is susceptible to all forms of entry hazards, be careful about switching Clauncher in and out too much because it will get worn down very quickly.

Team Options
========

Removing entry hazards is crucial to Clauncher's success; Drilbur, Staryu, Archen, and Vullaby are able to remove entry hazards do so effectively (or something like that). This is because Clauncher switches a lot and will thus get worn down extremely quickly if entry hazards are up. Forming a VoltTurn core with Clauncher is a good idea because as a Water-type, it naturally fits into these cores. Larvesta and Mienfoo also have U-turn, while Magnemite has Volt Switch. Chinchou stands out as a partner because it fits well in a VoltTurn core and provides Heal Bell support, along with having decent synergy with Clauncher. Cleric support from the likes of Spritzee and Lickitung is appreciated because Clauncher lacks reliable recovery and is worn down quickly by status, entry hazards, and just generally switching into attacks. Partners that can take on Grass- and Electric-type Pokemon for Clauncher, such as Foongus and Magnemite, are helpful. Frailer sweepers, such as Abra and Gastly, appreciate Clauncher's ability to stomach hits for them and pivot into them with a slow U-turn.

Other Options
########

Clauncher has access to coverage moves ranging from Rock Slide and Flash Cannon to various Hidden Powers, all of which have their uses. Generally, though, it's often best to stick to the coverage on the listed set because it achieves the maximum coverage possible. However, Hidden Power Fire deserves a is of notable mention because it can blast past Ferroseed. Hidden Power Grass is also an option to hit Chinchou, but Chinchou usually avoids the 2HKO, making it not worthwhile. While it might seem odd, running Hidden Power Psychic is viable to hit Croagunk. Running solely Solely physical or solely special sets could be used, but Clauncher is mainly outclassed by Carvanha, Tirtouga, and Corphish as a physical attacker and by Chinchou, Staryu, Clamperl, and Omanyte as a special attacker. Sludge Wave muscles past Chespin, but Ice Beam hits it regardless and Poison-type moves have poor coverage. Speedier or Choice Scarf m Mixed sets with more investment in Speed EVs or a Choice Scarf equipped are options but once again, Clauncher is outclassed by Omanyte and other Water-types in these roles: Clauncher's edge as a pivot lies in its bulk, which it must forfeit if it invests in Speed.

Checks & Counters
########

**Strong Special Attackers**: Special attacks from the likes of Abra and Gastly take advantage of Clauncher's low Special Defense. However, both of these Pokemon must watch out for Aqua Jet and dislike switching directly into Clauncher. It's also important to note that because Clauncher has access to U-turn, it can usually pivot out of its counters.

**Electric-types**: Chinchou can beat Clauncher quite easily because of its Electric-type STAB moves and ability to take all of Clauncher's attacks. The only move it has to worry about is the very uncommon Hidden Power Grass, which even bulkier then is stomached by bulkier sets are able to stomach. Magnemite is also a counter because it easily KOes Clauncher with its Electric-type attacks and doesn't mind Clauncher's attacks much.

**Grass-types**: Grass-types resist Clauncher's STAB moves and can KO it in return with their own STAB attacks: Foongus shrugs off Ice Beam and keeps itself healthy via Regenerator, while Ferroseed punishes U-turn with Iron Barbs.

**Residual Damage**: Clauncher is very prone to being worn down by entry hazards, status, and various attacks because of its lack of recovery. Clauncher is susceptible to all entry hazards and statuses as well, so it really has to be careful.

**Bulkier Pokemon**: Bulkier Pokemon, often carrying Eviolite, are able to stomach Clauncher's hits quite easily. These Pokemon include Porygon and Spritzee, which can comfortably take all of Clauncher's attacks and recover health via Recover and Wish, respectively. Croagunk shrugs off all of Clauncher's attacks and recovers health when switching into its Water-type STAB moves thanks to Dry Skin. However, not all of these Pokemon can actually do a lot to Clauncher in return other than take advantage of its lack of recovery to slowly wear it down, and Clauncher can just use U-turn to pivot out.

GP 2/2, not much but just a few stylistic changes. pls dont delete this superjoke i spent a lot of time ;_;
i added comments in blue too, dont add that
 

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

Top