Landorus-T

TheManlyLadybug

Banned deucer.
Overview
########
With a plethora of strong physical threats roaming around the OU metagame, Landorus-T establishes itself as a solid check to many of the most popular Pokemon in the tier. Landorus-T's massive base 145 Attack is still amongst the highest in the tier, punching holes in opposing teams with its powerful Ground-type STAB attacks. Its ability, Intimidate, is perhaps its greatest asset, giving Landorus-T the ability to switch into many physical attackers and soften their assaults. Its defensive typing is also useful, granting it a key resistance to Fighting-type attacks and key immunities to Electric- and Ground-type attacks, as well as an immunity to both Spikes and Toxic Spikes and neutrality to Stealth Rock. Landorus-T also has access to boosting moves such as Rock Polish and Swords Dance, granting it the ability to sweep or wallbreak.

However, Landorus-T’s Ground / Flying typing results in susceptibility to common Ice- and Water-type attacks, which in turn makes it weak to certain priority moves, namely Ice Shard and Aqua Jet. Its base 91 Speed is fairly mediocre and results in Landorus-T finding it hard to keep pace with common Pokemon in the tier. Landorus-T’s offensive options are both few and unreliable; Earthquake is somewhat predictable and easy to switch into, and its coverage moves either have accuracy issues or are rather situational.

Offensive Pivot
########
name: Offensive Pivot
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Earthquake
move 3: U-turn
move 4: Stone Edge / Knock Off
ability: Intimidate
item: Leftovers / Rocky Helmet
nature: Impish
evs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 Spe

Moves
========
Landorus-T has access to Stealth Rock, enabling it to set up a key entry hazard for teams in need of support throughout the entire match. Earthquake is Landorus-T's primary STAB option and hits opposing Pokemon hard, even without investment. U-turn gives Landorus-T the ability to work as an effective pivot, scouting potential switch-ins and creating momentum for its teammates. The last move directly correlates to specific checks that need disposing of. Stone Edge allows Landorus-T to be a decent Talonflame and Mega Pinsir check, while hitting Defog users like Zapdos and Mandibuzz hard and threatening common switch-ins such as Charizard and Kyurem-B. Rock Slide is an effective alternative to Stone Edge if you want the improved accuracy, but hits for noticeably less damage than Stone Edge against certain threats. For example, Rock Slide cannot 2HKO physically defensive Togekiss, while Stone Edge comfortably 2HKOes without Stealth Rock. Knock Off is an excellent support move, removing items such as Skarmory's Leftovers, Chansey's Eviolite, and Choice Scarf from some opposing checks, while potentially 2HKOing other would-be checks such as Trevenant, Bronzong, and Gourgeist-S. Hidden Power Ice may seem like an odd choice given Landorus-T's massive Attack stat, but its good base 105 Special Attack allows Hidden Power Ice to hit Gliscor, opposing Landorus and Landorus-T, Garchomp, and Dragonite hard. Stone Edge isn't the only Rock-type move Landorus-T can put to good use. Smack Down pressures common Defog users such as Zapdos and Skarmory by making them vulnerable to Earthquake. It also pressures common switch-ins such as Rotom-W. Rock Slide with 64 Attack EVs can also be used, as it retains the OHKO on Mega Pinsir and is generally more powerful than Smack Down. Both moves are more accurate than Stone Edge, but much less powerful.

Set Details
========
When acting as an offensive pivot, Landorus-T needs all the bulk it can receive from EV investment while retaining the capacity to combat certain threats in the metagame. Full investment in HP and Defense with an Impish nature works in conjunction with Intimidate to ensure that Landorus-T has enough bulk to switch into strong physical attackers. 4 EVs in Speed allow Landorus-T to outrun Jolly Azumarill. 96 Speed EVs are an option for outpacing Mega Tyranitar. If one opts for Hidden Power Ice, a Lax nature can be used, allowing Landorus-T to retain physical bulk and Special Attack in exchange for a small Special Defense drop. Leftovers gives Landorus-T its only form of health recovery, something it lacks outside of Wish support. Rocky Helmet is a viable alternative to Leftovers, tacking on extra damage to physical attackers, especially Talonflame, and punishing U-Turn users. It can also bluff a Choice Scarf with it.

Usage Tips
========
As the title suggests, this set gives Landorus-T the ability to be one of the best offensive pivots in the metagame, utilizing its key immunities and resistances in conjunction with Intimidate to switch in on opposing Pokemon and force the opponent to switch to a Landorus-T check, as they risk taking heavy damage or giving Landorus-T an easy opportunity to set up Stealth Rock. As a result of this, Landorus-T creates a domino effect, enabling teammates to switch in right after and eliminate opposing Pokemon that Landorus-T can't handle by itself. U-turn plays a vital role in this, dealing additional damage while giving teammates a free opportunity to switch in with potentially little consequence. The offensive pivot set can be used in all stages of battle effectively, but it finds its greatest use in the early and middle portions of the game, where it can find opportunities to set up Stealth Rock as often as possible and create momentum for its teammates. Once Stealth Rock is up, Landorus-T should focus on utilizing its powerful STAB Earthquake to punch holes in opposing teams or U-turning to scout switch-ins and provide setup opportunities for teammates. Keep an eye out for Landorus-T checks as the game progresses, using Landorus-T's coverage move of choice when an expected check or counter switches in. Removing checks early on could mean all the difference for Landorus-T later on in the match.

Team Options
========
Rotom-W is the perfect partner in crime for this set, resisting both of Landorus-T's weaknesses and using Volt Switch to create an effective VoltTurn core. Rotom-W is also equipped to dispatch most of Landorus-T's checks as well, including opposing Ground / Flying Pokemon and physical walls such as Skarmory and Hippowdon. Similarly, bulky Water-type Pokemon such as Vaporeon and Mega Blastoise can switch in on resisted attacks and provide support for Landorus-T and the rest of the team. Wish users such as Vaporeon, Sylveon, and Chansey are very helpful for Landorus-T, granting it another form of recovery as the match progresses. This set forces many switches throughout the duration of a match and chips away at opposing Pokemon with U-turn, so entry hazards support is always a boon. While Landorus-T can set up Stealth Rock on its own, Spikes support from Pokemon such as Ferrothorn and Skarmory can greatly help out with racking up damage throughout the match.

Choice Scarf
########
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Earthquake
move 2: Stone Edge
move 3: U-turn
move 4: Superpower / Knock Off
ability: Intimidate
item: Choice Scarf
nature: Adamant / Naughty
evs: 140 HP / 156 Atk / 212 Spe

Moves
========
Earthquake is Landorus-T's strongest attacking option, nailing opposing Pokemon for good damage. Stone Edge compliments Earthquake very well, hitting opposing Flying-types that are immune to Landorus-T's STAB move of choice, forming the well-known EdgeQuake combo. U-turn gives Landorus-T a fast method of both finishing off weakened foes and switching out to favorable match-ups, particularly when faced with unexpected switch-ins. The last move of choice, once again, relies upon which check you wish Landorus-T to combat. Knock Off nails Gourgeist for high damage and hinders potential switch-ins. Hidden Power Ice provides coverage against opponents that resist the EdgeQuake combo, such as Breloom, as well as coverage against Gliscor and Garchomp. Superpower hits checks Ferrothorn and Mega Gyarados a bit harder than other moves, as well as hitting common Air Balloon users such as Heatran and Excadrill. It is especially important for Mega Gyarados, as OHKOing Mega Gyarados with a Dragon Dance boost under its belt can mean the difference between a win and a loss. Explosion is an option in the fourth move slot, as it is considerably stronger than a super effective Stone Edge or neutral Earthquake, so it can get some surprise kills. It also retains momentum quite well, something all Choice Scarf users struggle with. However, using Explosion forfeits a coverage move, and using it when you need Landorus-T for later is a bad idea.

Set Details
========
While base 91 Speed by itself is middling, attaching a Choice Scarf to Landorus-T enables it to play the role of a fearsome revenge killer as well as a powerful cleaner. 212 EVs in Speed allow it to outpace Mega Manectric, an important target. 140 EVs in HP help Landorus-T take hits upon switching in. The rest of the EVs are placed into Attack in order to maximize Landorus-T's damage output. A Naughty nature should be used for sets that include Hidden Power Ice, and an Adamant one for any set with a different coverage move.

Usage Tips
========
Thanks to Intimidate, this set has a fairly easy time switching into most neutral physical attacks, and gets free switches into Electric- and Ground-type attacks, granting it the ability to strike quickly and often. Furthermore, Landorus-T's typing and access to Intimidate grant it the ability to combat some of the most common priority attacks in the game, such as Talonflame's Brave Bird, Lucario's Extreme Speed, and Scizor's Bullet Punch, allowing Landorus-T to differentiate itself from other users of Choice Scarf, which normally struggle against priority users. As with most good Choice Scarf users, Landorus-T plays an effective role as a revenge killer, but thanks to its massive Attack stat and Intimidate, which often forces switches, it is just as well-versed mid-game as it is late-game. The ability to predict switch-ins is vital, as the correct selection of Stone Edge or a another coverage move could quickly spell the end of a check, opening a clean-up opportunity with Earthquake later in the match. A fast U-turn should never be neglected either; backed with Landorus-T's massive Attack, U-turn can quickly knock out weakened foes and allow for a quick switch-in, generating offensive momentum. However, when U-Turn knocks out a foe, it gives the opponent switch advantage. While it might be tempting to abuse a fast and powerful Earthquake or a strong Stone Edge, keep in mind that Choice Scarf locks Landorus-T into one move; Earthquake's predictability and Stone Edge's accuracy issues can be exploited by smart players, so using this set to the best of its ability requires smart decision-making and paying careful attention to the opposing team.

Team Options
========
As this set lacks any form of recovery, the removal of Stealth Rock is a great asset for Landorus-T, allowing it to switch in multiple times without the fear of repeated entry hazard damage. Rapid Spin users such as Starmie and Mega Blastoise pair well with Landorus-T, resisting Water- and Ice-type attacks while drawing in Electric- and Ground-type ones. You can opt to use a Defog user, such as Scizor, Latias, or Latios, but keep in mind that the Choice Scarf set also appreciates entry hazards of its own due to the switches that this set can cause. Wish support from Sylveon or Chansey is also welcome, giving opportunities to switch in as the match progresses.

Double Dance
########
name: Double Dance
move 1: Rock Polish
move 2: Swords Dance
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Stone Edge
ability: Intimidate
item: Leftovers / Earth Plate
nature: Adamant
evs: 48 HP / 252 Atk / 208 Spe

Moves
========
With access to two great boosting moves in Rock Polish and Swords Dance, Landorus-T can run an effective set that utilizes both moves, allowing it to deal with a variety of opposing playstyles. Rock Polish doubles Landorus-T's Speed, enabling it to outpace practically every Pokemon in the tier. This is useful against fast offensive teams that could normally outspeed Landorus-T and KO it. Swords Dance, on the other hand, doubles its already massive Attack, making it an effective wallbreaker that can deal with even the bulkiest of checks. Earthquake and Stone Edge provide excellent coverage by themselves, allowing neutral hits on most Pokemon outside of Breloom and Chesnaught. A boosted STAB Earthquake will put a dent in nearly anything, however, and most things that resist or are immune to Earthquake are dispatched handily by Stone Edge. Knock Off can be used instead of Swords Dance, as sometimes, Landorus-T doesn't need a Swords Dance boost to sweep the opposing team, and Knock Off covers key threats such as Gourgeist, Latias, and Latios, that aren't OHKOed by the EdgeQuake combination.

Set Details
========
An investment of 208 Speed EVs gives Landorus-T enough Speed to outrun most relevant Pokemon after a boost. Landorus-T hits 540 Speed after a Rock Polish, enough to outspeed even fast Choice Scarf Pokemon such as Garchomp and Latios. An Adamant nature and full investment in Attack ensure that Landorus-T will hit as hard as possible off an astonishing 427 Attack. The remaining 48 EVs are placed in HP to improve overall bulk. Leftovers is the primary item of choice, enabling Landorus-T to set up against walls or slower threats without the worry of being worn down by repeated weak attacks. Lum Berry and Life Orb are decent alternatives, with the former preventing untimely status effects that could prevent a sweep while giving it setup opportunities against status users and the latter adding additional punch to attacks both before and after boosting. Soft Sand is a great alternative to Leftovers, as it allows Landorus-T to achieve things that it normally wouldn't be able to, such as an OHKO on Aegislash and a 2HKO on physically defensive Clefable.

Usage Tips
========
The primary role of this set is to sweep, so it's mandatory to switch in on something that ensures a boosting opportunity. The choice of which boosting move to use entirely depends on the structure of the opposing team. Use Rock Polish if the opposing team is more offensive, preying on their lack of investment in Defense and upending their normal Speed advantage. Use Swords Dance if the opposing team is more defensive or stall-based, punching massive holes in bulky threats that would normally take Landorus-T's attacks with ease. While scoring a Rock Polish and a Swords Dance at the same time is tempting, Landorus-T often cannot afford the time it takes to set up both. Focusing on one move or the other is often more beneficial than risking taking a massive hit from a check or being phazed out. This set is built for late-game use, gaining an advantage as the last Pokemon standing where it cannot be phazed out by walls like Skarmory and Hippowdon.

Team Options
========
Entry hazard support could mean the difference between an OHKO and a 2HKO for this set, so teammates that can set them up reliably are a plus; Ferrothorn and Skarmory are great choices for this role. While double dance Landorus-T seems like a juggernaut, there are certain threats that can switch in and hinder its sweep even after a Rock Polish or Swords Dance boost. Gliscor, Skarmory, Chesnaught, Hippowdon and opposing Landorus and Landorus-T can come in fairly easily and either deal heavy damage or force Landorus-T out. Greninja makes an excellent offensive partner, utilizing its Protean ability to defeat almost all of these physical threats with ease due to their low Special Defense and weaknesses to Water- and Ice-type attacks. Offensive lures are also great pairings with this set, creating offensive synergy while also dealing with specific checks that hinder a sweep. Ice Punch Lucario and Technician Breloom are good examples of lures that draw in particular threats and dispatch of them before they can react.

Other Options
########
With Landorus-T's base 145 Attack stat, a Choice Band set can be very effective, but its low Speed stat and predictability really let it down in the long run. A set using just one of either Rock Polish or Swords Dance can be used similarly to the double booster set, dropping the second boosting move in favor of a coverage move, but a set like this runs into issues against either offensive teams or defensive teams, depending on which boosting move is dropped. Gravity is an interesting and effective support move, turning checks like Skarmory and Zapdos into easy prey. Substitute eases switch-in prediction while also giving Landorus-T some safety against super effective moves, particularly strong priority moves. With the XY sleep mechanics being reverted to the old standard, a Sleep Talk set has gained some viability, giving Landorus-T both reliable recovery and a way to prevent status. However, its unreliable attacking options and lack of a phazing move leave much to be desired compared to other RestTalk users. An Assault Vest can be used to turn Landorus-T into a solid mixed tank with a spread of 248 HP / 56 Atk / 204 SpD with and an Adamant nature. This allows Landorus-T to take some impressive hits, such as +1 Life Orb Modest Volcarona's Fire Blast, Life Orb Thundurus-T's Hidden Power Ice after 2 previous switches into Stealth Rock, 2 Life Orb-boosted Shadow Balls from Quiet Aegislash after Stealth Rock (and a Hidden Power Ice after Stealth Rock if it's running that), and is only 4HKOed by Life Orb Gengar's Shadow Ball. It also deals with Togekiss, Espeon, Latios, Starmie, and Mega Gardevoir, to name a few. However, it also loses the recovery of Leftovers and ability to use Stealth Rock to support its team. Soft Sand can be used to give Landorus-T a boost to Earthquake, but it will really miss the passive recovery from Leftovers or the extra damage dealt with Rocky Helmet.

Checks & Counters
#############
**Opposing Flying / Ground Types**: Gliscor and opposing Landorus are among the most common switch-ins to Landorus-T, having the bulk to take most physical attacks thrown at them, and crippling Landorus-T with Toxic and Hidden Power Ice, respectively. However, Landorus-T can use Hidden Power Ice as well to dispatch of these checks quickly.

**Skarmory**: Skarmory is similar to Gliscor and Landorus in that it is immune to Earthquake and has massive physical bulk, yet is without the 4x Ice weakness. Skarmory will eventually fall to boosted Stone Edges, though, as well as Gravity, which allows Landorus-T to deal heavy damage with its powerful STAB Earthquake.

**Rotom-W**: Rotom-W is immune to Earthquake and can either burn Landorus-T or OHKO with Hydro Pump, but it takes decent damage from Landorus-T's coverage moves and also dislikes Gravity.

**Breloom and Chesnaught**: Breloom and Chesnaught are the only relevant Pokemon that resist the EdgeQuake combo, but Breloom is rather frail and is hit hard with Hidden Power Ice or boosted Earthquakes.

**Gourgeist-S and Gourgeist-XL**: Gourgeist-S and Gourgeist-XL resist Earthquake, have access to Will-O-Wisp, and have good overall bulk, but both must be wary of Knock Off.

**Faster Threats**: Base 91 Speed is pretty average, so faster threats such as Greninja and Kyurem-B as well as common Choice Scarf users such as Rotom-W and Keldeo can outspeed Landorus-T and take it out.

**Super Effective Priority Moves**: Landorus-T's typing also leaves it weak to priority attacks such as Ice Shard and Aqua Jet, so Pokemon such as Mamoswine and Azumarill can revenge kill it effectively.
 
Last edited:

Ash Borer

I've heard they're short of room in hell
Ealier I believe Jukain had asked for superpower to be removed scarf lando, however I request that it is kept there as it your best move against Mega Gyarados, a big threat. U-turn doesnt do much to it.

In moes specify that it is for Gyara and not skarm or w/e
 
I pitched for it in the last thread, but it didn't get much attention. Here's a couple of posts from a while back where I explained some of the merits of the set:

http://www.smogon.com/forums/threads/assault-vest.3490378/page-29#post-5218880
http://www.smogon.com/forums/threads/assault-vest.3490378/page-30#post-5233736

Obviously, not everything in those posts still applies (i.e. Mega Lucario and Genesect are banned now), but much of it does. If QC approves, you could probably just sum it up as, "Assault Vest can be used to turn Landorus-T into a solid mixed tank, but it also loses the recovery of Leftovers and ability to use Stealth Rock to support its team," or something along those lines. It's just an Other Options mention, though. I'm not expecting it to get its own set for now.
 
Last edited:

horyzhnz

[10:02:17 AM] flcl: its hory xD
is a Top Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Media Contributor Alumnus
boy i have a lot of free time these holidays
amcheck
Add
Remove
Comments

Taking over for DarkSlay.

Meow? You mean ROAR!

QC: 3/3
GP: 0/2

Overview
########
With a plethora of strong, physical threats roaming within the XY around the OU metagame, Landorus-T establishes itself as a solid answer check to many of the most popular Pokemon in the tier. Landorus-T’s massive Base 145 Attack is still amongst the highest in the tier, punching holes in opposing teams with its powerful Ground STAB attacks. Its ability, Intimidate, is perhaps its greatest asset, giving Landorus-T the ability to switch into many physical attackers and softening their assaults. Its defensive typing defensively is also useful, granting it key resistances and immunities to Fighting-, Electric- and Ground-type attacks (like what?), an immunity to both Spikes and Toxic Spikes, and neutrality against to Stealth Rock. Landorus-T also has access to boosting moves such as Rock Polish and Swords Dance, also granting it the opportunity ability to sweep or wallbreak.

However, Landorus-T’s typing, while one of its strengths, is also one of its key weaknesses. Ground / Flying typing finds itself results in susceptibility to many common attacking types, specifically Ice (4x) and Water, which in turn makes it weak to certain priority moves, like namely Ice Shard and Aqua Jet. Its base 91 Speed, while not slow, is fairly mediocre and results in Landorus-T finding it hard to keep pace with common Pokemon in the tier. Landorus-T’s offensive options are both few and unreliable; Earthquake STAB is fairly somewhat predictable and easy to switch into, while its coverage moves either have accuracy issues or are fairly rather situational.

Offensive Pivot
########
name: Offensive Pivot
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Earthquake
move 3: U-turn
move 4: Stone Edge / Knock Off / Hidden Power Ice
ability: Intimidate
item: Leftovers
nature: Adamant / Naughty
evs: 248 HP / 16 Atk / 244 Def

Moves
========
Landorus-T has access to Stealth Rock, enabling it to set up a key entry hazard for teams in need of support throughout the entire match. However, unlike other users of Stealth Rock, however, Landorus-T has the ability to threaten opponents offensively with its strong STAB attacks and attacking stats (what about Excadrill, Garchomp, Ttar, Mamoswine, etc; lots of Stealth Rock setters can hit hard). Earthquake is Landorus-T's primary STAB option and hits opposing Pokemon hard, even without investment. U-turn gives Landorus-T the ability to be an effective pivot, scouting potential switch-ins and creating momentum for its teammates. The last move directly correlates to specific checks that need disposing of; Stone Edge enables Landorus-T to be a decent Talonflame and Mega Pinsir (Mega Evolutions are two separate words) check, as well as hitting Defog users like Zapdos and Mandibuzz hard and threatening common switch-ins like such as Charizard and Kyurem-B. Rock Slide is an effecitve effective alternative to Stone Edge if you want to the improved accuracy, but hits for noticeably softer less damage than Stone Edge on certain threats (like?). The recently improved Knock Off is an excellent support move, removing items such as Gliscor's Toxic Orb, Skarmory's Leftovers, and Choice Scarf Scarves that some opposing checks dearly rely on,. Knock Off also has the while also potentially to 2HKOing other would-be checks like Trevenant, Bronzong and Gourgeist-S. Hidden Power Ice may seem like an odd choice given Landorus-T's massive Attack stat, but its deceptively good base 105 Special Attack enables Hidden Power Ice to hit Gliscor, opposing Landorus(-T), Garchomp, and Dragonite hard.

Set Details
========
When acting as an offensive pivot, Landorus-T needs all the bulk it can receive from EV investment while having retaining the capacity to combat certain threats in the metagame offensively. 248 HP EV's produces a Stealth Rock number, ensuringes that it takes as least little damage as possible when switching into entry hazards, while 16 Attack EV's guarantees a 2HKO on Multiscale Dragonite with Stone Edge, making Landorus-T a far better decent check to it. The rest of the EV's are placed into Defense to maximize physical bulk to work in conjunction with Intimidate. An Adamant nature ensures that Landorus-T has enough power to combat take on opponents while ensuring that keeping its defenses are stable. If one opts for Hidden Power Ice, Naughty is the preferred nature, enabling the coverage move to hit as hard as possible in exchange for a small Special Defense drop-off. Leftovers gives Landorus-T its only form of health recovery, something it lacks outside of Wish support. An interesting alternative to Leftovers is Rocky Helmet, tacking on extra damage to threats like Talonflame and further hindering the physical attackers of the tier, particularly U-turn users.

Usage Tips
========
As the title suggests, this set gives Landorus-T the ability to be one of the best offensive pivots in the metagame, utilizing its key immunities and resistances in conjunction with Intimidate to switch in on an opposing Pokemon and force the opponent to react. This forces the opponent to switch to a Landorus-T check, lest your opponent as they risks taking big heavy damage or giving Landorus-T an easy opportunity to set up Stealth Rock. As a result of this, Landorus-T creates a domino effect, enabling teammates to switch in right after and eliminate opposing Pokemon that Landorus-T can't handle by itself. U-turn plays a vital role in this, tacking on(used 'tacking on' already) dealing additional damage while giving teammates a free opportunity to switch in with potentially little consequence. The Offensive Pivot set can be used in all stages of battle effectively, but it finds its greatest use in the early and middle portions of the game, where it can find opportunities to set up Stealth Rock as often as possible and create momentum for its teammates early on in the match. Once Stealth Rocks are up is placed, Landorus-T should focus on utilizing its powerful STAB Earthquake to punch holes in opposing teams or utilizing U-turning to scout switch-ins and provide set-up opportunities for teammates. Keep an eye out for Landorus-T checks as the game progresses, utilizing using Landorus-T's coverage move of choice when an expected check or counter switches in. Removing checks early on could mean all the difference for Landorus-T later on in the match.

Team Options
========
Rotom-W is the perfect partner in crime for the Offensive Pivot set, resisting all of Landorus-T's weaknesses and using Volt Switch to create even more offensive momentum for teams an effective VoltTurn core. Rotom-W is also equipped to dispatch most of Landorus-T's checks as well, including opposing Ground / Flying type (space between dual types) Pokemon and physical walls like such as Skarmory and Hippowdon. Similarly, bulky Water-type Pokemon like Vaporeon and Blastoise can switch in on resisted attacks and provide support for Landorus-T and the rest of the team. Wish users like Vaporeon, Sylveon, and Jirachi are very helpful for Landorus-T, granting it another form of recovery as the match progresses. The Offensive Pivot set forces many switches throughout the duration of a match and chips away at opposing Pokemon with U-turn, so entry hazards support is always a boon. While Landorus-T can set up its own Stealth Rock on its own, Spikes support from Pokemon like Ferrothorn and Forretress can help out greatly in racking up damage throughout the match. Forretress in particular can use Volt Switch in tandem conjunction with Landorus-T's U-turn to constantly shift momentum, making it an extremely effective partner.

Choice Scarf
########
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Earthquake
move 2: Stone Edge
move 3: U-turn
move 4: Knock Off / Hidden Power Ice / Superpower
ability: Intimidate
item: Choice Scarf
nature: Jolly / Naive
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

Moves
========
Earthquake is Landorus-T's strongest attacking option, nailing opposing Pokemon weak or neutral to the move for good damage. Stone Edge compliments Earthquake very well, hitting opposing Flying-types that are impervious immune to Landorus-T's STAB move of choice, forming the infamous EdgeQuake combo. U-turn gives Landorus-T a fast option method of both finishing off weakened foes and switching out to favorable match-ups, particularly when faced with unexpected switch-ins. The last move of choice, once again, relies upon which check you wish to combat against. Knock Off nails Trevenant and Bronzong for big damage and hinders potential switch-ins into the Scarf set, although repeated Knock Offs on the same target will lessen in power after the first use (don't think this part is necessary). Hidden Power Ice is provides coverage against things opponents that resist the EdgeQuake combo, like Breloom, as well as added coverage against Gliscor and Garchomp. Superpower hits checks like Ferrothorn and Mega Gyarados a bit harder than its other moves, as well as keeping consistency against hitting common Air Balloon users such as Heatran and Excadrill. It is especially important for Mega Gyarados especially, as OHKOing Mega Gyarados with a Dragon Dance boost under its belt can mean the difference between a win or a loss.

Set Details
========
While 91 Base Speed by itself is middling, attaching a Choice Scarf to Landorus-T enables it to play the role of a fearsome revenge killer, as well as a powerful cleaner. Maximum investment in Speed, a positive nature, and a Choice Scarf grants Landorus-T a respectable 464 Speed, enough to out-speed positive natured base 150's like Mega Alakazam and Mega Aerodactyl (same problem as Mega Pinsir) as well as +1 neutral nature base 100 Pokemon. Naive is for sets that include Hidden Power Ice, while Jolly is for any set with a different coverage move. The rest of the EV's are placed into Attack in order to maximize Landorus-T's damage output.

Usage Tips
========
The Scarf set, thanks to Intimidate, has a fairly easy time switching into most non-Ice or Water most neutral/non-Ice- or Water-type physical attacks and gets free switches into Electric- and Ground-type attacks, granting it the ability to strike quickly and often. Furthermore, access to Intimidate and its typing its typing and its access to Intimidate grant it the ability to combat some of the most common priority attacks in the game, such as Talonflame's Brave Bird, Lucario's Vacuum Wave and Scizor's Bullet Punch, This allowing Landorus-T to differentiate itself from other users of Choice Scarf, who normally struggle against priority users out-speeding their attacks. As with most good Choice Scarf users, Choice Scarf Landorus-T plays an effective role as a revenge killer, but thanks to its massive Attack stat and Intimidate, which often forces switches, it is just as well versed mid-game as it is late game. The ability to predict switch-ins is vital for the Scarf set, as a correct selection of Stone Edge or a coverage move could quickly spell the end of a check, opening up a clean-up opportunity with Earthquake late in the match. A fast U-turn should never be neglected either; backed with Landorus-T's massive Attack, U-turn can quickly knock out weakened foes and allow for a quick switch-in, enabling momentum change generating offensive momentum. While it may be tempting to abuse a fast and powerful Earthquake or a strong Stone Edge, keep in mind that Choice Scarf locks you into one move; after the initial selection process. Earthquake's predictability and Stone Edge's accuracy issues (using SE's inaccuracy is kinda luck based; I wouldn't really say you could take advantage of it, more like gambling on it to miss) can be taken advantage of by smart players, so using the Scarf set to the best of its ability requires smart decision-making and paying careful attention to the opposing team. Landorus-T faces some competition from Landorus-I, who can pull off the same set with higher Speed and Sand Force, but Landorus-T's Intimidate and strength outside of Sand sets it apart from its cousin other forme (aren't they technically the same Pokemon?).

Team Options
========
As the Scarf set lacks any form of recovery, the removal of Stealth Rock is a great asset for Landorus-T, allowing it to switch in multiple turns times without the fear of repeated entry hazard damage. Rapid Spin users like Starmie and Tentacruel pair well with Landorus-T, resisting Water- and Ice-type attacks while drawing in Electric and Ground-type moves. You may opt to use a Defogger user, such as Scizor, Latias, or Latios, but keep in mind that the Scarf set also appreciates entry hazards of its own due to the switch-outs that set may cause. Wish support from Vaporeon or Jirachi is also welcome, giving the Scarf set more opportunities to switch in as the match progresses.

Double Booster
########
name: Double Booster
move 1: Rock Polish
move 2: Swords Dance
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Stone Edge
ability: Intimidate
item: Leftovers
nature: Adamant
evs: 48 HP / 252 Atk / 208 Spe

Moves
========
With access to two great boosting moves in Rock Polish and Swords Dance, Landorus-T can run an effective set that utilizes both moves, allowing it to deal with a variety of opposing playstyles. Rock Polish doubles Landorus-T's speed stat, enabling it to out-pace practically every Pokemon in the tier. This is useful against fast offensive teams that could normally out-speed Landorus-T and KO it. Swords Dance, on the other hand, doubles its already massive Attack stat, making it an effective wallbreaker that can deal with even the bulkiest of checks. Earthquake and Stone Edge provide excellent coverage by themselves, allowing neutral hits on most Pokemon outside of Breloom, Bronzong and Chestnaut Chesnaught. A boosted STAB Earthquake will put a dent in nearly anything, however, and most things that resist or are immune to Earthquake are dispatched handily by Stone Edge.

Set Details
========
An investment of 208 Speed EV's gives it enough EV's Speed to out-Speedpace/run most relevant Pokemon that need to be out-sped before a Rock Polish boost. After a Rock Polish boost, Landorus-T hits 540 Speed, enough to out-speed +1 base 110 threats such as Choice Scarf Keldeo and Choice Scarf Latios. An Adamant nature and full investment in Attacks endows it with an astonishing 427 Attack, ensuring that Landorus-T will hit as hard as possible off an astonishing 427 Attack. The remaining 48 EV's are placed in HP to promote overall bulk. Leftovers is the primary item of choice, enabling Landorus-T to set up against walls or slower threats without the worry of repeated weak attacks. Lum Berry and Life Orb are decent alternatives, with the former preventing untimely status effects that could prevent a sweep while giving it set-up opportunities against status abusers, and the latter adding additional punch to attacks both before boosting and after boosting.

Usage Tips
========
The primary role of the Double Booster set is to sweep, so it's mandatory to switch in on something that ensures a boosting opportunity. The choice of which boosting move to use entirely depends on what the structure of the opposing team is. Use Rock Polish if the opposing team is more offensive; preying on their lack of investment in Defense and upending their normal Speed advantage. Use Swords Dance if the opposing team is more defensive or stall-based; punching massive holes in bulky threats that would normally take Landorus-T's attacks with ease. While scoring a Rock Polish and a Swords Dance at the same time is tempting, Landorus-T often cannot afford the time it takes to set up both. Focusing on one move or the other is often more beneficial than risking taking a massive hit from a check or being phazed out. The Double Booster set is built for late game use, particularly gaining an advantage as the last Pokemon standing where it cannot be phazed out by things like Skarmory and Hippowdon. This set, like the Scarf set, competes with Landorus-I's Double Booster set, but once again, Intimidate and immediate power sets those two Pokemon apart.

Team Options
========
Entry hazard support could mean the difference between a OHKO and a 2HKO for the Double Booster set, so teammates that can set them up reliably are a plus; Ferrothorn, Skarmory and Forretress are all great choices for this role. While Double Booster Landorus-T seems like a juggernaut, there are certain threats that can switch in and hinder a sweep even after a Rock Polish or Swords Dance. Pokemon like Gliscor, Skarmory, Chesnaught, Hippowdon and opposing Landorus(-T) can come in fairly easy and either deal big heavy damage or force Landorus-T out. Greninja makes an excellent offensive partner, utilizing its Protean ability to defeat almost all of these Physical threats with ease due to their low Special Defense and weaknesses to Water- and Ice-type attacks. Offensive lures are also great pairings with the Double Booster set, creating an offensive tandem synergy while also dealing with specific checks that hinder a sweep. Ice Punch Lucario and Technician Breloom are good examples of lures that draw in particular threats and dispatch of them before they can react.

Other Options
########
With its 145 Attack stat, a Choice Band set seems like a no-brainer. While Choice Band can be very effective, but its low Speed stat and predictability really let it down in the long run. A set using just one of either Rock Polish or Swords Dance can be used similarly to the Double Booster set, dropping the second boosting move in favor of a coverage move, but a set like this runs into issues against either offensive teams or defensive teams, depending on which boosting move is dropped.

Gravity is an interesting and effective support move, turning checks like Skarmory, Bronzong and Zapdos into easy prey. Substitute eases switch-in prediction while also protecting giving Landorus-T from some safety against (word choice; Sub doesn't really protect, it just means he won't take heavy damage) super effective moves, particularly strong priority moves. With the XY Sleep mechanics being reverted to the old standard, a Sleep Talk set has gained some viability, giving it both reliable recovery and a way to prevent status. However, its unreliable attacking options and lack of a phazing move leave much to be desired compared to other RestTalk users.

Assault Vest can be used to turn Landorus-T into a solid mixed tank, with a spread of 248 HP / 56 Atk / 204 SpD with and an Adamant nature. This allows it Landorus-T to take some impressive hits, such as +1 LO Life Orb Modest Volcarona's Fire Blast, Life Orb Thundurus-T's HP Ice after 2 previous switches into Stealth Rock, take 2 LO Life Orb Shadow Balls from a Quiet Aegislash after Stealth Rock (and a HP Ice after Stealth Rock if it's running that), and it is only 4HKOed by LO Life Orb Gengar's Shadow Ball. It deals with Togekiss, Espeon, Latios, Starmie, and Mega Gardevoir, to name a few. However, it also loses the recovery of Leftovers and ability to use Stealth Rock to support its team.

Checks & Counters
########
**Gliscor and Landorus(-T)**: Gliscor and opposing Landorus(-T) are among the most common switch-ins to Landorus-T, having the bulk to take most physical attacks thrown at them, and crippling Landorus-T with Toxic and Hidden Power Ice, respectively. However, Landorus-T can use Hidden Power Ice as well to dispatch of these checks quickly.

**Skarmory and Bronzong**: Both Skarmory and Bronzong are similar to Gliscor and Landorus(-T) in that they are immune to EQ and have massive Physical bulk, yet are without the 4x Ice weakness. Skarmory will eventually fall to boosted Stone Edges, though, while Bronzong has to deal with can be dealt with using Knock Off. Both also are fall victim to Gravity, rendering them useless against Landorus-T.

**Rotom-W**: Rotom-W is immune to Earthquake and can either burn Landorus-T or OHKO it with Hydro Pump, but it takes decent damage from Landorus-T's coverage moves and also dislikes Gravity.

**Breloom and Chesnaught**: Breloom and Chesnaught are the only Pokemon that resist the EdgeQuake combo, but Breloom is rather frail, and is hit hard with Hidden Power Ice or boosted Earthquakes.

**Trevenant and Gourgeist-S**: Trevenant and Gourgeist-S resist Earthquake, have access to Will-O-Wisp, and have good overall bulk, but both must be wary of Knock Off.

**Speed Stat Faster Threats**: Base 91 Speed is pretty average, so faster threats such as Greninja and Kyurem-B and as well as common Scarf users such as Rotom-W and Keldeo out-speed Landorus-T and take it out.

**Ice and Water Priority**: Landorus-T's typing also leaves it weak to priority attacks like Ice Shard and Aqua Jet, so Pokemon like Mamoswine and Azumarill can revenge kill it effectively. (I would rename this to simply Ice Shard and Aqua Jet, because the only other priority move that hits Landorus-T for super effective damage is Water Shuriken, and that's barely seen on Greninja.)

I may have gone overboard replacing repeated words and linking sentences, but feel free to take what you will from this.
ok wow this took a lot longer than I thought
 
Last edited:
TheManlyLadybug

Sorry I didn't clarify this earlier, but the Assault Vest mention doesn't have to be that detailed. As is, it's actually a bit much. You can just shorten it to something like this:

Assault Vest can be used to turn Landorus-T into a solid mixed tank, enabling it to take hits from Pokemon such as Aegislash and Volcarona much more easily. However, it will also lose Leftovers recovery and the ability to support its team with Stealth Rock.
 

aVocado

@ Everstone
is a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Forum Moderator Alumnusis a Community Contributor Alumnusis a Tiering Contributor Alumnusis a Top Contributor Alumnus
**Breloom and Chesnaught**: Breloom and Chesnaught are the only Pokemon that resist the EdgeQuake combo, but Breloom is rather frail and hit hard with Hidden Power Ice or boosted Earthquakes.
Just nitpicking, but they're not the only Pokemon. Levitate Bronzong and Torterra also resist it. Changing the sentence to "some of the only Pokemon that resist the EdgeQuake combo.." (or something similar) is more accurate.
 

horyzhnz

[10:02:17 AM] flcl: its hory xD
is a Top Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Media Contributor Alumnus
Just nitpicking, but they're not the only Pokemon. Levitate Bronzong and Torterra also resist it. Changing the sentence to "some of the only Pokemon that resist the EdgeQuake combo.." (or something similar) is more accurate.
You won't really see either of them in OU though; maybe change it to 'the only relevant/common Pokemon that resist the EdgeQuake combo'?
 

Attack Order

Guest
Additions
Removals
(Comments)

Overview
########
With a plethora of strong, Pphysical threats attackers roaming within the XY OU metagame, Landorus-T establishes itself as a solid answer to many of the most popular Pokemon in the tier. Landorus-T’s massive Base 145 Attack is still amongst the highest in the tier, punching holes in opposing teams with powerful Ground-type STAB. Its ability, Intimidate, is perhaps its greatest asset, giving Landorus-T the ability to switch into many Pphysical attackers and soften weakening their assaults. Its typing defensively typing is also useful, granting it key resistances and immunities, and also immunity to both Spikes and Toxic Spikes, and neutrality against Stealth Rock. Landorus-T also has access to boosting moves such as Rock Polish and Swords Dance, granting it the opportunity to sweep or wallbreak, as well.

Landorus-T’s typing, while one of its strengths, is also one of its key weaknesses. Ground/Flying finds itself susceptible to many common attacksing types, specifically Ice (4x) and Water, which in turn makes it weak to certain priority moves, like such as Ice Shard and Aqua Jet. Base 91 Speed, while not slow, is fairly mediocre and results in Landorus-T finding it hard to keep pace with common Pokemon in the tier. Landorus-T’s offensive options are both few and unreliable. Earthquake STAB is fairly predictable and easy to switch into, while its coverage moves either have accuracy issues or are fairly situational.

Offensive Pivot
########
name: Offensive Pivot
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Earthquake
move 3: U-turn
move 4: Stone Edge / Knock Off / Hidden Power Ice
ability: Intimidate
item: Leftovers
nature: Adamant / Naughty
evs: 248 HP / 16 Atk / 244 Def

Moves
========
Landorus-T has access to Stealth Rock, enabling it to set up an key essential entry hazard for teams in need of support. throughout the entire match. However, Uunlike other users of Stealth Rock, however, Landorus-T has the capability to threaten opponents offensively with its strong STAB and attacking stats. Earthquake is Landorus-T's primary STAB option and hits opposing Pokemon hard, even without investment. U-turn gives Landorus-T the ability to be an effective pivot, scouting potential switch-ins and creating momentum for its teammates. The last move directly correlates to specific checks that need disposing of. Stone Edge enables allows(You use the word enable quite a lot!) Landorus-T to be a decent Talonflame and Mega-Pinsir check, as well as hitting Defog users like such as Zapdos and Mandibuzz hard, and also threatening many common switch-ins like such as Charizard and Kyurem-B. Rock Slide is an effecitve alternative to Stone Edge if you want to improve accuracy play it safe, but hits noticeably softer the power difference is pretty noticeable compared than to Stone Edge on certain threats. The recently improved Knock Off is an excellent support move, removing items such as Gliscor's Toxic Orb, Skarmory's Leftovers, and Choice Scarf that opposing checks dearly rely on. Knock Off also has the potential to 2HKO checks like Trevenant, Bronzong and Gourgeist-S. Hidden Power Ice may seem like an odd choice given Landorus-T's massive Attack stat, but its deceptively good Base 105 Special Attack enables Hidden Power Ice to hit Gliscor, opposing Landorus(-T), Garchomp and Dragonite hard.

Set Details
========
Acting as an offensive pivot, Landorus-T needs all the bulk it can receive from EV investment while having the capacity to combat certain threats in the metagame offensively. 248 HP EV's produces a Stealth Rock number, ensuring that it takes as least damage as possible when switching into hazards. 16 Sixteen Attack EV's guarantees a 2HKO on Multiscale Dragonite with Stone Edge, making Landorus-T a far better check to it. The rest of the EV's are placed into Defense to maximize physical bulk in conjunction with Intimidate. An Adamant nature ensures guarantees that Landorus-T has enough power to combat opponents while also ensuring that its defenses are stable. If one opts for Hidden Power Ice, Naughty is the preferred nature, enabling the coverage move to hit as hard as possible in exchange for a small Special Defense drop-off. Leftovers gives Landorus-T its only form of health recovery, something it lacks outside of Wish support. An interesting alternative to Leftovers is Rocky Helmet, tacking on extra damage to threats like Talonflame and further hindering the P physical attackers of the tier,(particularly U-turn users).

Usage Tips
========
As the title suggests, this set gives Landorus-T the ability to be one of the best offensive pivots in the metagame, utilizing its key immunities and resistances in conjunction with Intimidate to switch in on opposing Pokemon and force the opponent to react. This forces the opponent to switch to a Landorus-T check, lest your opponent risks taking big damage or giving Landorus-T an easy opportunity to set up Stealth Rock. As a result of this, Landorus-T creates a domino effect, enabling allowing teammates to switch in right after and eliminate opposing Pokemon that Landorus-T can't handle by itself. U-turn plays a vital role in this, tacking on additional damage while giving teammates a free opportunity to switch in with potentially little consequence. The Offensive Pivot set can be used in all stages of battle effectively, but it finds its greatest use in the early and middle portions of the game, where it can find opportunities to set up Stealth Rock as often as possible and create momentum for its teammates early on in the match. Once Stealth Rock is placed, Landorus-T should focus on utilizing its powerful STAB Earthquake to punch holes in tear opposing teams apart or utilizing U-turn to scout switch-ins and provide set up opportunities for teammates. Keep an eye out for Landorus-T checks as the game progresses, utilizing Landorus-T's coverage move of choice when an expected check or counter switches in. Removing checks early could mean all the difference for Landorus-T later on in the match.

Team Options
========
Rotom-W is the perfect partner in crime for the Offensive Pivot set, resisting all of Landorus-T's weaknesses and using Volt Switch to create achieve even more offensive momentum for teams. Additionally, Rotom-W is also equipped to dispatch most of Landorus-T's checks as well, including opposing Ground/Flying Pokemon and P physical walls like such as Skarmory and Hippowdon. Similarly, bulky Water Pokemon like Vaporeon and Blastoise can switch in on resisted attacks and provide support for Landorus-T and the rest of the team. Wish users like Vaporeon, Sylveon and Jirachi are very helpful for Landorus-T, granting it a form of recovery as the match progresses. The Offensive Pivot set forces many switches throughout the duration of a match and chips away at opposing Pokemon with U-turn, so hazards support is always a boon. While Landorus-T can set up its own Stealth Rock, Spikes support from Pokemon like Ferrothorn and Forretress can help out greatly in racking up damage throughout the match. Forretress in particular can use Volt Switch in tandem with Landorus-T's U-turn to constantly shift momentum, making it an extremely effective partner.

Choice Scarf
########
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Earthquake
move 2: Stone Edge
move 3: U-turn
move 4: Knock Off / Hidden Power Ice / Superpower
ability: Intimidate
item: Choice Scarf
nature: Jolly / Naive
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

Moves
========
Earthquake is Landorus-T's strongest attacking option, nailing opposing Pokemon weak or neutral to the move for good damage. Stone Edge compliments Earthquake very well, hitting opposing Flying-types that are impervious to Landorus-T's STAB move of choice. U-turn gives Landorus-T a fast option of both finishing off weakened foes and switching out to favorable match-ups, particularly with expected switch-ins. The last move of choice, once again, (Take this out. This is probably because people will not read both sets in conjunction) relies upon which check you wish to combat against. Knock Off nails Trevenant and Bronzong for big damage and also hinders potential switch-ins into the Choice Scarf set, although repeated Knock Offs on the same target will lessen in power after the first use. Hidden Power Ice is coverage against things that resist the EdgeQuake combo, like Breloom, as well as added coverage against Gliscor and Garchomp. Superpower hits checks like such as Ferrothorn and Mega Gyarados a bit harder than its other moves, as well as keeps consistency against Air Balloon users such as Heatran and Excadrill. It is important for Mega Gyarados especially, as OHKOing Mega Gyarados with a Dragon Dance boost under its belt can mean the difference between a win or a loss.

Set Details
========
While 91 Base Speed by itself is middling decent, attaching a Choice Scarf to Landorus-T enables it to play the role of a fearsome revenge killer, as well as a powerful cleaner. Max investment in Speed, a positive nature, and a Choice Scarf grants Landorus-T a respectable tolerable 464 Speed, enough to out-speed positive nature Base 150's like Mega Alakazam and Mega Aerodactyl as well as +1 neutral nature Base 100 Speed Pokemon. Naive is for sets that include Hidden Power Ice, while Jolly is for any set with a different coverage move. The rest of the EV's are placed into Attack in order to maximize Landorus-T's damage output.

Usage Tips
========
The Choice Scarf set, thanks to Intimidate, has a fairly easy time switching into most non-Ice or Water Pphysical attacks and also into Electric- and Ground-type attacks, granting it the ability to strike quickly and often. Furthermore, access to Intimidate and its typing grant it has the ability to combat some of the most common priority attacks in the game, such as Talonflame's Brave Bird, Lucario's Vacuum Wave and Scizor's Bullet Punch. This allows Landorus-T to differentiate itself from other users of Choice Scarf, who normally struggle against priority users out-speeding their attacks. As with most good Choice Scarf users, Choice Scarf Landorus-T plays an effective role as a revenge killer, but thanks to its massive Attack stat and Intimidate ability, which often forces switches,. i It is just as well versed mid-game as it is late game. The ability to predict switch-ins is vital for the Scarf set, as a correct selection of Stone Edge or a coverage move could quickly spell doom the end of a check, opening up a clean-up opportunity with Earthquake late in the match. A fast U-turn should never be neglected either: , backed with Landorus-T's massive Attack, U-turn can quickly knock out weakened foes and allow for a quick switch-in, enabling momentum change. While it may be tempting to abuse a fast and powerful Earthquake or a strong Stone Edge, keep in mind that Choice Scarf locks you into one move after the initial selection process. Earthquake's predictability and Stone Edge's accuracy issues can be taken advantage of by smart experienced players, so using the Choice Scarf set to the best of its ability requires smart decision-making and careful attention to the opposing team. Landorus-T faces some competition from Landorus-I, who can pull off the same set with higher Speed and Sand Force, but however, Landorus-T's Intimidate and strength outside of Ssand sets (Remove this because it sounds like "sand sets") differentiates it apart from its cousin.

Team Options
========
As the Choice Scarf set lacks any form of recovery, the removal of Stealth Rock is a great asset benefit for Landorus-T, allowing it to switch in multiple turnsimes without the fear of repeated hazard damage. Rapid Spin users like Starmie and Tentacruel pair well with Landorus-T, resisting Water and Ice attacks while drawing in Electric and Ground-type moves. You may opt to use a Defog user, such as Scizor, Latias or Latios, but keep in mind that the Choice Scarf set also appreciates hazards of its own due to the switch-outsing the set may cause. Wish support from Vaporeon or Jirachi is also welcome, giving the Scarf set more opportunities to switch in as the match progresses.

Double Booster
########
name: Double Booster
move 1: Rock Polish
move 2: Swords Dance
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Stone Edge
ability: Intimidate
item: Leftovers
nature: Adamant
evs: 48 HP / 252 Atk / 208 Spe

Moves
========
With access to two great boosting moves in Rock Polish and Swords Dance, Landorus-T can run an effective set that utilizes both moves, allowing it to deal with a variety of opposing playstyles. Rock Polish doubles Landorus-T's Speed stat, enabling it to out-pace practically every unboosted Pokemon in the tier. This is useful against fast offensive teams that could normally out-Sspeed Landorus-T and KO it. Swords Dance, on the other hand, doubles it already massive Attack stat, making it an effective wallbreaker that can deal with even the bulkiest of checks. Earthquake and Stone Edge provide excellent coverage by themselves, allowing neutral hits on most Pokemon outside of Breloom, Bronzong and Chestnautnaught. Boosted STAB Earthquake will put a dent in nearly anything, however, and most things Pokemon that resist or are immune to Earthquake are dispatched handily by Stone Edge.

Set Details
========
An investment of 208 Speed EV's gives it enough EV's to out-Speed most relevant Pokemon that need to be out-sped before a Rock Polish boost. After a Rock Polish boost, Landorus-T hits 540 Speed, enough to out-speed +1 Base 110 threats, such as Choice Scarf Keldeo and Choice Scarf Latios. An Adamant nature and full investment in Attacks endows it with an astonishing 427 Attack, ensuring that Landorus-T will it as hard as possible. The remaining 48 EV's are placed in HP to promote overall bulk. Leftovers is the primary item of choice, enabling Landorus-T to set up against walls or slower threats without the worry of repeated weak attacks. Lum Berry and Life Orb are decent alternatives, with the former preventing untimely status that could prevent a sweep while giving it set-up opportunities against status abusers and the latter adding additional puinch to attacks both before boosting and after boosting.

Usage Tips
========
The primary role of the Double Booster set is to sweep, so it's mandatory to switch in on something that ensures an boosting opportunity. The choice of which boosting move to use entirely depends on what the structure of the opposing team is. Use Rock Polish if the opposing team is more offensive, preying on their lack of investment in Defense and upending their normal Speed advantage. Use Swords Dance if the opposing team is more defensive or stall-based, punching massive holes in bulky threats that would normally take Landorus-T's attacks with ease. While scoring a Rock Polish and a Swords Dance at the same time is tempting, Landorus-T often cannot afford the time it takes to set up both. Focusing on one move or the other is often more beneficial than risking taking a massive hit from a check or being phazed out. The Double Booster set is built for late game, particularly gaining an advantage as the last Pokemon standing where it cannot be phazed out by things like Skarmory and Hippowdon. This set, like similar to the Scarf set, competes with Landorus-I's Double Booster set, but once again Intimidate and immediate power sets those two Pokemon apart.

Team Options
========
Hazard support could mean the difference between a OHKO and a 2HKO for the Double Booster set, so teammates that can set them up reliably are a plus. Ferrothorn, Skarmory and Forretress are all great choices for this role. While Double Booster Landorus-T seems like a juggernaut, there are certain threats that can switch in and hinder a sweep even after a Rock Polish or Swords Dance. Pokemon like Gliscor, Skarmory, Chesnaught, Hippowdon and opposing Landorus(-T) can come in fairly easy and either deal big damage or force Landorus-T out. Greninja makes an excellent offensive partner, utilizing its Protean ability to defeat almost all of these P physical threats with ease due to their low Special Defense and weaknesses to Water-types and Ice-types. Offensive lures are also great pairings with the Double Booster set, creating an offensive tandem while also dealing with specific checks that hinder a sweep. Ice Punch Lucario and Technician Breloom are good examples of lures that draw in particular threats and dispatch of them before they can react.

Other Options
########
With its 145 Attack stat, a Choice Band set seems like a no-brainer. While Choice Band can be very effective, its low Speed stat and predictability really let it down in the long run. A set using just one of Rock Polish or Swords Dance can be used similarly to the Double Booster set, dropping the second boosting move in favor of a coverage move, but a set like this runs into issues against either offensive teams or defensive teams, depending on which boosting move is dropped.

Gravity is an interesting and effective support move, turning checks like Skarmory, Bronzong and Zapdos into easy prey. Substitute eases switch-in prediction while also protecting Landorus-T from super effective moves, particularly strong priority moves. With the XY Sleep mechanics being reverted to the old standard, a Sleep Talk set has gained some viability, giving it both reliable recovery and a way to prevent status. However, its unreliable attacking options and lack of a phazing move leave much to be desired compared to other RestTalk users.

Assault Vest can may be used to turn Landorus-T into a solid mixed tank, with a spread of 248 HP / 56 Atk / 204 SpD with an Adamant nature. This allows it to take some impressive hits, such as +1 Life Orb (Always types out the full name of items.) Modest Volcarona's Fire Blast, Life Orb Thundurus-T's Hidden Power Ice after 2 previous switches into Stealth Rock, take 2 Life Orb Shadow Balls from a Quiet Aegislash after Stealth Rock (and a HP Ice after Stealth Rock if it's running that), and is only 4HKOed by Life Orb Gengar's Shadow Ball. It deals with Togekiss, Espeon, Latios, Starmie, and Mega Gardevoir, to name a few. However, it also loses the recovery of Leftovers and ability to use Stealth Rock to support its team.

Checks & Counters
########
**Gliscor and Landorus(-T)**: Gliscor and opposing Landorus(-T) are among the most common switch-ins to Landorus-T, having the bulk to take most Physical attacks thrown at them and crippling Landorus-T with Toxic and Hidden Power Ice, respectively. However, Landorus-T can use Hidden Power Ice as well to dispatch of these checks quickly.

**Skarmory and Bronzong**: Both Skarmory and Bronzong are similar to Gliscor and Landorus(-T) in that they are immune to EQ and have massive P physical bulk, yet are without the 4x Ice weakness. Skarmory will eventually fall to boosted Stone Edges, though, while Bronzong has to deal with Knock Off. Both also are victim to Gravity, rendering them useless against Landorus-T.

**Rotom-W**: Rotom-W is immune to Earthquake and can either B burn Landorus-T or OHKO it with Hydro Pump, but it takes decent damage from Landorus-T's coverage moves and also dislikes Gravity.

**Breloom and Chesnaught**: Breloom and Chesnaught are the only Pokemon that resist the EdgeQuake combo, but Breloom is rather frail and is hit hard with Hidden Power Ice or boosted Earthquakes.

**Trevenant and Gourgeist-S**: Trevenant and Gourgeist-S resist Earthquake, have access to Will-O-Wisp, and have good overall bulk, but both must be wary of Knock Off.

**Speed Stat**: Base 91 Speed is pretty average, so faster threats such as Greninja and Kyurem-B and common Choice Scarf users such as Rotom-W and Keldeo out-speed Landorus-T and take it out.

**Ice and Water Priority**: Landorus-T's typing also leaves it weak to priority attacks like Ice Shard and Aqua Jet, so Pokemon like Mamoswine and Azumarill can revenge kill it effectively.


Overview
########
With a plethora of strong, physical attackers roaming within the XY OU metagame, Landorus-T establishes itself as a solid answer to many of the most popular Pokemon in the tier. Landorus-T’s massive Base 145 Attack is still amongst the highest in the tier, punching holes in opposing teams with powerful Ground-type STAB. Its ability, Intimidate, is perhaps its greatest asset, giving Landorus-T the ability to switch into many physical attackers and weakening their assaults. Its defensive typing is also useful, granting it key resistances and immunities, and also immunity to both Spikes and Toxic Spikes, and neutrality against Stealth Rock. Landorus-T has access to boosting moves such as Rock Polish and Swords Dance, granting it the opportunity to sweep or wallbreak, as well.

Landorus-T’s typing, while one of its strengths, is also one of its weaknesses. Ground/Flying finds itself susceptible to many common attacking types, specifically Ice (4x) and Water, which in turn makes it weak to certain priority moves, such as Ice Shard and Aqua Jet. Base 91 Speed, while not slow, is fairly mediocre and results in Landorus-T finding it hard to keep pace with common Pokemon in the tier. Landorus-T’s offensive options are both few and unreliable. Earthquake is fairly predictable and easy to switch into, while its coverage moves either have accuracy issues or are fairly situational.

Offensive Pivot
########
name: Offensive Pivot
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Earthquake
move 3: U-turn
move 4: Stone Edge / Knock Off / Hidden Power Ice
ability: Intimidate
item: Leftovers
nature: Adamant / Naughty
evs: 248 HP / 16 Atk / 244 Def

Moves
========
Landorus-T has access to Stealth Rock, enabling it to set up an essential entry hazard for teams in need of support. However, unlike other users of Stealth Rock, Landorus-T has the capability to threaten opponents offensively with its strong STAB and attacking stats. Earthquake is Landorus-T's primary STAB option and hits opposing Pokemon hard, even without investment. U-turn gives Landorus-T the ability to be an effective pivot, scouting potential switch-ins and creating momentum for its teammates. The last move directly correlates to specific checks that need disposing of. Stone Edge allows Landorus-T to be a decent Talonflame and Mega-Pinsir check, as well as hitting Defog users such as Zapdos and Mandibuzz hard, and also threatening many common switch-ins such as Charizard and Kyurem-B. Rock Slide is an effecitve alternative to Stone Edge if you want to play it safe, but the power difference is pretty noticeable compared to Stone Edge on certain threats. The recently improved Knock Off is an excellent support move, removing items such as Gliscor's Toxic Orb, Skarmory's Leftovers, and Choice Scarf that opposing checks dearly rely on. Knock Off also has the potential to 2HKO checks like Trevenant, Bronzong and Gourgeist-S. Hidden Power Ice may seem like an odd choice given Landorus-T's massive Attack stat, but its deceptively good Base 105 Special Attack enables Hidden Power Ice to hit Gliscor, opposing Landorus(-T), Garchomp and Dragonite hard.

Set Details
========
Acting as an offensive pivot, Landorus-T needs all the bulk it can receive from EV investment while having the capacity to combat certain threats in the metagame offensively. 248 HP EV's produces a Stealth Rock number, ensuring that it takes as least damage as possible when switching into hazards. Sixteen Attack EV's guarantees a 2HKO on Multiscale Dragonite with Stone Edge, making Landorus-T a far better check. The rest of the EV's are placed into Defense to maximize physical bulk in conjunction with Intimidate. An Adamant nature guarantees that Landorus-T has enough power to combat opponents while also ensuring that its defenses are stable. If one opts for Hidden Power Ice, Naughty is the preferred nature, enabling the coverage move to hit as hard as possible in exchange for a small Special Defense drop-off. Leftovers gives Landorus-T its only form of health recovery, something it lacks outside of Wish support. An interesting alternative to Leftovers is Rocky Helmet, tacking on extra damage to threats like Talonflame and further hindering the physical attackers of the tier,(particularly U-turn users).

Usage Tips
========
As the title suggests, this set gives Landorus-T the ability to be one of the best offensive pivots in the metagame, utilizing its immunities and resistances in conjunction with Intimidate to switch in on opposing Pokemon and force the opponent to react. This forces the opponent to switch to a Landorus-T check, lest your opponent risks taking big damage or giving Landorus-T an easy opportunity to set up Stealth Rock. As a result, Landorus-T creates a domino effect, allowing teammates to switch in right after and eliminate opposing Pokemon that Landorus-T can't handle by itself. U-turn plays a vital role in this, tacking on additional damage while giving teammates a free opportunity to switch in with potentially little consequence. The Offensive Pivot set can be used in all stages of battle effectively, but it finds its greatest use in the early and middle portions of the game, where it can find opportunities to set up Stealth Rock as often as possible and create momentum for its teammates early on in the match. Once Stealth Rock is placed, Landorus-T should focus on utilizing its powerful STAB Earthquake tears opposing teams apart or utilizing U-turn to scout switch-ins and provide set up opportunities for teammates. Keep an eye out for Landorus-T checks as the game progresses, utilizing Landorus-T's coverage move of choice when an expected check or counter switches in. Removing checks early could mean all the difference for Landorus-T later on in the match.

Team Options
========
Rotom-W is the perfect partner in crime for the Offensive Pivot set, resisting all of Landorus-T's weaknesses and using Volt Switch to achieve even more offensive momentum for teams. Additionally, Rotom-W is also equipped to dispatch most of Landorus-T's checks as well, including opposing Ground/Flying Pokemon and physical walls such as Skarmory and Hippowdon. Similarly, bulky Water Pokemon like Vaporeon and Blastoise can switch in on resisted attacks and provide support for Landorus-T and the rest of the team. Wish users like Vaporeon, Sylveon and Jirachi are very helpful for Landorus-T, granting it a form of recovery as the match progresses. The Offensive Pivot set forces many switches throughout the duration of a match and chips away at opposing Pokemon with U-turn, so hazards support is always a boon. While Landorus-T can set up its own Stealth Rock, Spikes support from Pokemon like Ferrothorn and Forretress can help out greatly in racking up damage throughout the match. Forretress in particular can use Volt Switch in tandem with Landorus-T's U-turn to constantly shift momentum, making it an extremely effective partner.

Choice Scarf
########
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Earthquake
move 2: Stone Edge
move 3: U-turn
move 4: Knock Off / Hidden Power Ice / Superpower
ability: Intimidate
item: Choice Scarf
nature: Jolly / Naive
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

Moves
========
Earthquake is Landorus-T's strongest attacking option, nailing opposing Pokemon weak or neutral to the move for good damage. Stone Edge compliments Earthquake very well, hitting opposing Flying-types that are impervious to Landorus-T's STAB move of choice. U-turn gives Landorus-T a fast option of both finishing off weakened foes and switching out to favorable match-ups, particularly with expected switch-ins. The last move of choice relies upon which check you wish to combat against. Knock Off nails Trevenant and Bronzong for big damage and also hinders potential switch-ins into the Choice Scarf set, although repeated Knock Offs on the same target will lessen in power after the first use. Hidden Power Ice is coverage against things that resist the EdgeQuake combo, like Breloom, as well as added coverage against Gliscor and Garchomp. Superpower hits checks such as Ferrothorn and Mega Gyarados a bit harder than its other moves, as well as keeps consistency against Air Balloon users such as Heatran and Excadrill. It is important for Mega Gyarados especially, as OHKOing Mega Gyarados with a Dragon Dance boost under its belt can mean the difference between a win or a loss.

Set Details
========
While 91 Base Speed by itself is decent, attaching a Choice Scarf to Landorus-T enables it to play the role of a fearsome revenge killer, as well as a powerful cleaner. Max investment in Speed, a positive nature, and a Choice Scarf grants Landorus-T a tolerable 464 Speed, enough to out-speed positive nature Base 150's like Mega Alakazam and Mega Aerodactyl as well as +1 neutral nature Base 100 Speed Pokemon. Naive is for sets that include Hidden Power Ice, while Jolly is for any set with a different coverage move. The rest of the EV's are placed into Attack in order to maximize Landorus-T's damage output.

Usage Tips
========
The Choice Scarf set, thanks to Intimidate, has a fairly easy time switching into most non-Ice or Water physical attacks and also into Electric- and Ground-type attacks, granting it the ability to strike quickly and often. Furthermore, it has the ability to combat some of the most common priority attacks in the game, such as Talonflame's Brave Bird, Lucario's Vacuum Wave and Scizor's Bullet Punch. This allows Landorus-T to differentiate itself from other users of Choice Scarf, who normally struggle against priority users out-speeding their attacks. As with most good Choice Scarf users, Choice Scarf Landorus-T plays an effective role as a revenge killer, but thanks to its massive Attack stat and ability, which often forces switches. It is just as well versed mid-game as it is late game. The ability to predict switch-ins is vital for the set, as a correct selection of Stone Edge or a coverage move could quickly spell doom of a check, opening up a clean-up opportunity with Earthquake late in the match. A fast U-turn should never be neglected either: , backed with Landorus-T's massive Attack, U-turn can quickly knock out weakened foes and allow for a quick switch-in, enabling momentum change. While it may be tempting to abuse a fast and powerful Earthquake or a strong Stone Edge, keep in mind that Choice Scarf locks you into one move after the initial selection process. Earthquake's predictability and Stone Edge's accuracy issues can be taken advantage of by experienced players, so using the Choice Scarf set to the best of its ability requires smart decision-making and careful attention to the opposing team. Landorus-T faces some competition from Landorus-I, who can pull off the same set with higher Speed and Sand Force, however, Landorus-T's Intimidate and strength outside of sand differentiates it apart from its cousin.

Team Options
========
As the Choice Scarf set lacks any form of recovery, the removal of Stealth Rock is a great benefit for Landorus-T, allowing it to switch in multiple times without the fear of repeated hazard damage. Rapid Spin users like Starmie and Tentacruel pair well with Landorus-T, resisting Water and Ice attacks while drawing in Electric and Ground-type moves. You may opt to use a Defog user, such as Scizor, Latias or Latios, but keep in mind that the Choice Scarf set also appreciates hazards of its own due to the switching the set may cause. Wish support from Vaporeon or Jirachi is also welcome, giving the set more opportunities to switch in as the match progresses.

Double Booster
########
name: Double Booster
move 1: Rock Polish
move 2: Swords Dance
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Stone Edge
ability: Intimidate
item: Leftovers
nature: Adamant
evs: 48 HP / 252 Atk / 208 Spe

Moves
========
With access to two great boosting moves in Rock Polish and Swords Dance, Landorus-T can run an effective set that utilizes both moves, allowing it to deal with a variety of opposing playstyles. Rock Polish doubles Landorus-T's Speed stat, enabling it to out-pace practically every unboosted Pokemon in the tier. This is useful against fast offensive teams that could normally outspeed Landorus-T and KO it. Swords Dance, on the other hand, doubles it already massive Attack stat, making it an effective wallbreaker that can deal with even the bulkiest of checks. Earthquake and Stone Edge provide excellent coverage by themselves, allowing neutral hits on most Pokemon outside of Breloom, Bronzong and Chesnaught. Boosted STAB Earthquake will put a dent in nearly anything, however, most Pokemon that resist or are immune to Earthquake are dispatched handily by Stone Edge.

Set Details
========
An investment of 208 Speed EV's gives it enough EV's to out-Speed most relevant Pokemon that need to be out-sped before a Rock Polish boost. After a Rock Polish boost, Landorus-T hits 540 Speed, enough to out-speed +1 Base 110 threats, such as Choice Scarf Keldeo and Choice Scarf Latios. An Adamant nature and full investment in Attacks endows it with an astonishing 427 Attack, ensuring that Landorus-T will it as hard as possible. The remaining 48 EV's are placed in HP to promote overall bulk. Leftovers is the primary item of choice, enabling Landorus-T to set up against walls or slower threats without the worry of repeated weak attacks. Lum Berry and Life Orb are decent alternatives, with the former preventing untimely status that could prevent a sweep while giving it set-up opportunities against status abusers and the latter adding additional pinch to attacks both before boosting and after boosting.

Usage Tips
========
The primary role of the Double Booster set is to sweep, so it's mandatory to switch in on something that ensures an opportunity. The choice of which boosting move to use entirely depends on what the structure of the opposing team is. Use Rock Polish if the opposing team is more offensive, preying on their lack of investment in Defense and upending their normal Speed advantage. Use Swords Dance if the opposing team is more defensive or stall-based, punching massive holes in bulky threats that would normally take Landorus-T's attacks with ease. While scoring a Rock Polish and a Swords Dance at the same time is tempting, Landorus-T often cannot afford the time it takes to set up both. Focusing on one move or the other is often more beneficial than risking taking a massive hit from a check or being phazed out. The Double Booster set is built for late game, particularly gaining an advantage as the last Pokemon standing where it cannot be phazed out by things like Skarmory and Hippowdon. This set, similar to the Choice Scarf set, competes with Landorus-I's Double Booster set, but once again Intimidate and immediate power sets those two Pokemon apart.

Team Options
========
Hazard support could mean the difference between a OHKO and a 2HKO for the Double Booster set, so teammates that can set them up reliably are a plus. Ferrothorn, Skarmory and Forretress are all great choices for this role. While Double Booster Landorus-T seems like a juggernaut, there are certain threats that can switch in and hinder a sweep even after a Rock Polish or Swords Dance. Pokemon like Gliscor, Skarmory, Chesnaught, Hippowdon and opposing Landorus(-T) can come in fairly easy and either deal big damage or force Landorus-T out. Greninja makes an excellent offensive partner, utilizing its Protean ability to defeat almost all of these physical threats with ease due to their low Special Defense and weaknesses to Water-types and Ice-types. Offensive lures are also great pairings with the Double Booster set, creating an offensive tandem while also dealing with specific checks that hinder a sweep. Ice Punch Lucario and Technician Breloom are good examples of lures that draw in particular threats and dispatch of them before they can react.

Other Options
########
With its 145 Attack stat, a Choice Band set seems like a no-brainer. While Choice Band can be very effective, its low Speed stat and predictability really let it down in the long run. A set using just one of Rock Polish or Swords Dance can be used similarly to the Double Booster set, dropping the second boosting move in favor of a coverage move, but a set like this runs into issues against either offensive teams or defensive teams, depending on which boosting move is dropped.

Gravity is an interesting and effective support move, turning checks like Skarmory, Bronzong and Zapdos into easy prey. Substitute eases switch-in prediction while also protecting Landorus-T from super effective moves, particularly strong priority moves. With the XY Sleep mechanics being reverted to the old standard, a Sleep Talk set has gained some viability, giving it both reliable recovery and a way to prevent status. However, its unreliable attacking options and lack of a phazing move leave much to be desired compared to other RestTalk users.

Assault Vest may be used to turn Landorus-T into a solid mixed tank, with a spread of 248 HP / 56 Atk / 204 SpD with an Adamant nature. This allows it to take some impressive hits, such as +1 Life Orb Modest Volcarona's Fire Blast, Life Orb Thundurus-T's Hidden Power Ice after 2 previous switches into Stealth Rock, take 2 Life Orb Shadow Balls from a Quiet Aegislash after Stealth Rock (and a HP Ice after Stealth Rock if it's running that), and is only 4HKOed by Life Orb Gengar's Shadow Ball. It deals with Togekiss, Espeon, Latios, Starmie, and Mega Gardevoir, to name a few. However, it also loses the recovery of Leftovers and ability to use Stealth Rock to support its team.

Checks & Counters
########
**Gliscor and Landorus(-T)**: Gliscor and opposing Landorus(-T) are among the most common switch-ins to Landorus-T, having the bulk to take most Physical attacks thrown at them and crippling Landorus-T with Toxic and Hidden Power Ice, respectively. However, Landorus-T can use Hidden Power Ice as well to dispatch of these checks quickly.

**Skarmory and Bronzong**: Both Skarmory and Bronzong are similar to Gliscor and Landorus(-T) in that they are immune to EQ and have massive physical bulk, yet are without the 4x Ice weakness. Skarmory will eventually fall to boosted Stone Edges, though, while Bronzong has to deal with Knock Off. Both also are victim to Gravity, rendering them useless against Landorus-T.

**Rotom-W**: Rotom-W is immune to Earthquake and can either burn Landorus-T or OHKO it with Hydro Pump, but it takes decent damage from Landorus-T's coverage moves and also dislikes Gravity.

**Breloom and Chesnaught**: Breloom and Chesnaught are the only Pokemon that resist the EdgeQuake combo, but Breloom is rather frail and is hit hard with Hidden Power Ice or boosted Earthquakes.

**Trevenant and Gourgeist**: Trevenant and Gourgeist resist Earthquake, have access to Will-O-Wisp, and have good overall bulk, but both must be wary of Knock Off.

**Speed Stat**: Base 91 Speed is pretty average, so faster threats such as Greninja and Kyurem-B and common Choice Scarf users such as Rotom-W and Keldeo out-speed Landorus-T and take it out.

**Ice and Water Priority**: Landorus-T's typing also leaves it weak to priority attacks like Ice Shard and Aqua Jet, so Pokemon like Mamoswine and Azumarill can revenge kill it effectively.

I hope this helps! This is a well written analysis, but boy was it long. XD

Edit: I did not see horyzhnz's GP check. You can ignore this post. Sorry for the mistake! >_>
 
Last edited by a moderator:

GatoDelFuego

The Antimonymph of the Internet
is a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Social Media Contributor Alumnusis a Community Leader Alumnusis a Smogon Discord Contributor Alumnusis a Top Contributor Alumnusis a Top Smogon Media Contributor Alumnus
TheManlyLadybug

REMOVE CHANGE COMMENTS

Overview
########
With a plethora of strong, (RC) physical threats roaming around the OU metagame, Landorus-T establishes itself as a solid check to many of the most popular Pokemon in the tier. Landorus-T's Make sure all these apostrophes are changed to straight instead of curly massive base 145 Attack is still amongst the highest in the tier, punching holes in opposing teams with its powerful Ground STAB attacks. Its ability, Intimidate, is perhaps its greatest asset, giving Landorus-T the ability to switch into many physical attackers and softening their assaults. Its defensive typing is also useful, granting it key resistances and immunities to Fighting-, Electric-, (AC) and Ground-type attacks, an immunity to both Spikes and Toxic Spikes, and neutrality to Stealth Rock. Landorus-T also has access to boosting moves such as Rock Polish and Swords Dance, granting it the ability to sweep or wallbreak.

However, Landorus-T’s Ground / Flying typing results in susceptibility to many common attacking types, specifically Ice (4x) and Water, which in turn makes it weak to certain priority moves, namely Ice Shard and Aqua Jet. Its base 91 Speed, while not slow, is fairly mediocre and results in Landorus-T finding it hard to keep pace with common Pokemon in the tier. Landorus-T’s offensive options are both few and unreliable; Earthquake is somewhat predictable and easy to switch into, while and its coverage moves either have accuracy issues or are rather situational.

Offensive Pivot
########
name: Offensive Pivot
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Earthquake
move 3: U-turn
move 4: Stone Edge / Knock Off / Hidden Power Ice
ability: Intimidate
item: Leftovers
nature: Adamant / Naughty
evs: 248 HP / 16 Atk / 244 Def

Moves
========
Landorus-T has access to Stealth Rock, enabling it to set up a key entry hazard for teams in need of support throughout the entire match. Earthquake is Landorus-T's primary STAB option and hits opposing Pokemon hard, even without investment. U-turn gives Landorus-T the ability to be an effective pivot, scouting potential switch-ins and creating momentum for its teammates. The last move directly correlates to specific checks that need disposing of. (period) Stone Edge allows Landorus-T to be a decent Talonflame and Mega Pinsir check, as well as hitting Defog users like Zapdos and Mandibuzz hard and threatening common switch-ins such as Charizard and Kyurem-B. Rock Slide is an effective alternative to Stone Edge if you want the improved accuracy, but hits for noticeably less damage than Stone Edge on certain threats. For example, Rock Slide cannot 2HKO physically defensive Togekiss, while Stone Edge comfortably 2HKOes without Stealth Rock. Knock Off is an excellent support move, removing items such as Gliscor's Toxic Orb, This isn't that useful to mention as normally gliscor would have already poisoned itself Skarmory's Leftovers, and Choice Scarf from that some opposing checks rely on, while potentially 2HKOing other would-be checks like Trevenant, Bronzong, (AC) and Gourgeist-S. Hidden Power Ice may seem like an odd choice given Landorus-T's massive Attack stat, but its good base 105 Special Attack enables Hidden Power Ice to hit Gliscor, opposing Landorus and Landorus-T, Garchomp, and Dragonite hard.

Set Details
========
When acting as an offensive pivot, Landorus-T needs all the bulk it can receive from EV investment while retaining the capacity to combat certain threats in the metagame. 248 HP EVs ensures that it takes as little damage as possible when switching into entry hazards, while 16 Attack EV's guarantees a 2HKO on Multiscale Dragonite with Stone Edge, making Landorus-T a decent check to it. The rest of the EVs are placed into Defense to maximize physical bulk to work in conjunction with Intimidate. An Adamant nature ensures that Landorus-T has enough power to take on opponents while keeping its defenses stable. If one opts for Hidden Power Ice, Naughty is the preferred nature, enabling the coverage move to hit as hard as possible in exchange for a small Special Defense drop-off. Leftovers gives Landorus-T its only form of health recovery, something it lacks outside of Wish support. An interesting alternative to Leftovers is Rocky Helmet, tacking on extra damage to threats like Talonflame and further hindering the physical attackers of the tier, particularly U-turn users.

Usage Tips
========
As the title suggests, this set gives Landorus-T the ability to be one of the best offensive pivots in the metagame, utilizing its key immunities and resistances in conjunction with Intimidate to switch in on an opposing Pokemon and force the opponent to switch to a Landorus-T check, as they risk taking heavy damage or giving Landorus-T an easy opportunity to set up Stealth Rock. As a result of this, Landorus-T creates a domino effect, enabling teammates to switch in right after and eliminate opposing Pokemon that Landorus-T can't handle by itself. U-turn plays a vital role in this, dealing additional damage while giving teammates a free opportunity to switch in with potentially little consequence. The offensive pivot set can be used in all stages of battle effectively, but it finds its greatest use in the early and middle portions of the game, where it can find opportunities to set up Stealth Rock as often as possible and create momentum for its teammates early on in the match. Once Stealth Rocks are is up, Landorus-T should focus on utilizing its powerful STAB Earthquake to punch holes in opposing teams or U-turning to scout switch-ins and provide setup opportunities for teammates. Keep an eye out for Landorus-T checks as the game progresses, using Landorus-T's coverage move of choice when an expected check or counter switches in. Removing checks early on could mean all the difference for Landorus-T later on in the match.

Team Options
========
Rotom-W is the perfect partner in crime for this e Offensive Pivot set, resisting all of Landorus-T's weaknesses and using Volt Switch to create an effective VoltTurn core. Rotom-W is also equipped to dispatch most of Landorus-T's checks as well, including opposing Ground / Flying type Pokemon and physical walls such as Skarmory and Hippowdon. Similarly, bulky Water-type Pokemon like Vaporeon and Mega Blastoise can switch in on resisted attacks and provide support for Landorus-T and the rest of the team. Wish users like Vaporeon, Sylveon, and Jirachi are very helpful for Landorus-T, granting it another form of recovery as the match progresses. This e Offensive Pivot set forces many switches throughout the duration of a match and chips away at opposing Pokemon with U-turn, so entry hazards support is always a boon. While Landorus-T can set up Stealth Rock on its own, Spikes support from Pokemon like Ferrothorn and Forretress can help out greatly in racking up damage throughout the match. Forretress in particular can use Volt Switch in conjunction with Landorus-T's U-turn to constantly shift momentum, making it an extremely effective partner.

Choice Scarf
########
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Earthquake
move 2: Stone Edge
move 3: U-turn
move 4: Knock Off / Hidden Power Ice / Superpower
ability: Intimidate
item: Choice Scarf
nature: Jolly / Naive
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

Moves
========
Earthquake is Landorus-T's strongest attacking option, nailing opposing Pokemon weak or neutral to the move for good damage. Stone Edge compliments Earthquake very well, hitting opposing Flying-types that are immune to Landorus-T's STAB move of choice, forming the infamous well-known something infamous is something bad EdgeQuake combo. U-turn gives Landorus-T a fast method of both finishing off weakened foes and switching out to favorable match-ups, particularly when faced with unexpected switch-ins. The last move of choice, once again, relies upon which check you wish Landorus-T to combat. Knock Off nails Trevenant and Bronzong for big damage and hinders potential switch-ins into the Scarf set. Hidden Power Ice provides coverage against opponents that resist the EdgeQuake combo, like such as Breloom, as well as coverage against Gliscor and Garchomp. Superpower hits checks like Ferrothorn and Mega Gyarados a bit harder than its Landorus-T's other moves, as well as hitting common Air Balloon users such as Heatran and Excadrill. It is especially important for Mega Gyarados, as OHKOing Mega Gyarados with a Dragon Dance boost under its belt can mean the difference between a win or a loss.

Set Details
========
While 91 base 91 Speed by itself is middling, attaching a Choice Scarf to Landorus-T enables it to play the role of a fearsome revenge killer, (RC) as well as a powerful cleaner. Maximum investment in Speed, a positive nature, and a Choice Scarf grants Landorus-T a respectable 464 Speed, enough to outspeed positive-natured base 150s like Mega Alakazam and Mega Aerodactyl as well as +1 neutral-natured base 100 Pokemon. Naive is for sets that include Hidden Power Ice, while Jolly is for any set with a different coverage move. The rest of the EVs are placed into Attack in order to maximize Landorus-T's damage output.

Usage Tips
========
The Scarf set, Thanks to Intimidate, this set has a fairly easy time switching into most neutral/non-Ice- or Water-type physical attacks and gets free switches into Electric- and Ground-type attacks, granting it the ability to strike quickly and often. Furthermore, its typing and access to Intimidate grant it the ability to combat some of the most common priority attacks in the game, such as Talonflame's Brave Bird, Lucario's Vacuum Wave, (AC) and Scizor's Bullet Punch, allowing Landorus-T to differentiate itself from other users of Choice Scarf, who which normally struggle against priority users. As with most good Choice Scarf users, Landorus-T plays an effective role as a revenge killer, but thanks to its massive Attack stat and Intimidate, which often forces switches, it is just as well-versed mid-game as it is late-game. The ability to predict switch-ins is vital for the Scarf set, as a correct selection of Stone Edge or a coverage move could quickly spell the end of a check, opening a clean-up opportunity with Earthquake later in the match. A fast U-turn should never be neglected either; backed with Landorus-T's massive Attack, U-turn can quickly knock out weakened foes and allow for a quick switch-in, generating offensive momentum. However, when U-turn knocks out a foe, it gives the opponent switch advantage. Alter this to make it favorable to you While it may might be tempting to abuse a fast and powerful Earthquake or a strong Stone Edge, keep in mind that Choice Scarf locks you Landorus-T into one move; Earthquake's predictability and Stone Edge's accuracy issues can be exploited by smart players, so using the Scarf this set to the best of its ability requires smart decision-making and paying careful attention to the opposing team. Landorus-T faces some competition from Landorus-I, who which can pull off the same set with higher Speed and Sand Force, but Landorus-T's Intimidate and strength outside of sand sets it apart from its other forme.

Team Options
========
As the Scarf this set lacks any form of recovery, the removal of Stealth Rock is a great asset for Landorus-T, allowing it to switch in multiple times without the fear of repeated entry hazard damage. Rapid Spin users like Starmie and Tentacruel pair well with Landorus-T, resisting Water- and Ice-type attacks while drawing in Electric- and Ground-type moves. You may can opt to use a Defogger user, such as Scizor, Latias, or Latios, but keep in mind that the Choice Scarf set also appreciates entry hazards of its own due to the switches-outs that set may can cause. Wish support from Vaporeon or Jirachi is also welcome, giving the Scarf set more opportunities to switch in as the match progresses.

Double Booster
########
name: Double Booster
move 1: Rock Polish
move 2: Swords Dance
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Stone Edge
ability: Intimidate
item: Leftovers
nature: Adamant
evs: 48 HP / 252 Atk / 208 Spe

Moves
========
With access to two great boosting moves in Rock Polish and Swords Dance, Landorus-T can run an effective set that utilizes both moves, allowing it to deal with a variety of opposing playstyles. Rock Polish doubles Landorus-T's Speed, enabling it to outpace practically every Pokemon in the tier. This is useful against fast, (AC) offensive teams that could normally outspeed Landorus-T and KO it. Swords Dance, on the other hand, doubles its already massive Attack, making it an effective wallbreaker that can deal with even the bulkiest of checks. Earthquake and Stone Edge provide excellent coverage by themselves, allowing neutral hits on most Pokemon outside of Breloom, Bronzong, (AC) and Chesnaught. A boosted STAB Earthquake will put a dent in nearly anything, however, and most things that resist or are immune to Earthquake are dispatched handily by Stone Edge.

Set Details
========
An investment of 208 Speed EVs gives it Landorus-T enough Speed to outrun most relevant Pokemon. After a Rock Polish, Landorus-T hits 540 Speed, enough to outspeed +1 base 110 threats such as Choice Scarf Keldeo and Choice Scarf Latios. An Adamant nature and full investment in Attack ensure that Landorus-T will hit as hard as possible off an astonishing 427 Attack. The remaining 48 EVs are placed in HP to promote overall bulk. Leftovers is the primary item of choice, enabling Landorus-T to set up against walls or slower threats without the worry of repeated weak attacks. Lum Berry and Life Orb are decent alternatives, with the former preventing untimely status effects that could prevent a sweep while giving it setup opportunities against status abusers, (RC) and the latter adding additional punch to attacks both before and after boosting.

Usage Tips
========
The primary role of this the Double Booster set is to sweep, so it's mandatory to switch in on something that ensures a boosting opportunity. The choice of which boosting move to use entirely depends on what the structure of the opposing team is. Use Rock Polish if the opposing team is more offensive, (comma) preying on their lack of investment in Defense and upending their normal Speed advantage. Use Swords Dance if the opposing team is more defensive or stall-based, (comma) punching massive holes in bulky threats that would normally take Landorus-T's attacks with ease. While scoring a Rock Polish and a Swords Dance at the same time is tempting, Landorus-T often cannot afford the time it takes to set up both. Focusing on one move or the other is often more beneficial than risking taking a massive hit from a check or being phazed out. This The Double Booster set is built for late-game use, gaining an advantage as the last Pokemon standing where it cannot be phazed out by things walls like Skarmory and Hippowdon. This set, like the Choice Scarf set, competes with Landorus-I's double booster set, but once again, Intimidate and immediate power sets those two Pokemon apart.

Team Options
========
Entry hazard support could mean the difference between an OHKO and a 2HKO for this the Double Booster set, so teammates that can set them up reliably are a plus; Ferrothorn, Skarmory, (AC) and Forretress are all great choices for this role. While double booster Landorus-T seems like a juggernaut, there are certain threats that can switch in and hinder a sweep even after a Rock Polish or Swords Dance. Pokemon like Gliscor, Skarmory, Chesnaught, Hippowdon and opposing Landorus and Landorus-T can come in fairly easy and either deal heavy damage or force Landorus-T out. Greninja makes an excellent offensive partner, utilizing its Protean ability to defeat almost all of these physical threats with ease due to their low Special Defense and weaknesses to Water- and Ice-type attacks. Offensive lures are also great pairings with the Double Booster this set, creating offensive synergy while also dealing with specific checks that hinder a sweep. Ice Punch Lucario and Technician Breloom are good examples of lures that draw in particular threats and dispatch of them before they can react.

Other Options
########
With its Landorus-T's base 145 Attack stat, a Choice Band set can be very effective, but its low Speed stat and predictability really let it down in the long run. A set using just one of either Rock Polish or Swords Dance can be used similarly to the double booster set, dropping the second boosting move in favor of a coverage move, but a set like this runs into issues against either offensive teams or defensive teams, depending on which boosting move is dropped.

Gravity is an interesting and effective support move, turning checks like Skarmory, Bronzong, (AC) and Zapdos into easy prey. Substitute eases switch-in prediction while also giving Landorus-T some safety against (word choice; Substitute doesn't really protect, it just means he Landorus-T won't take heavy damage) unless this was a comment super effective moves, particularly strong priority moves. With the XY sleep mechanics being reverted to the old standard, a Sleep Talk set has gained some viability, giving it Landorus-T both reliable recovery and a way to prevent status. However, its unreliable attacking options and lack of a phazing move leave much to be desired compared to other RestTalk users.

Assault Vest can be used to turn Landorus-T into a solid mixed tank, (RC) with a spread of 248 HP / 56 Atk / 204 SpD with and an Adamant nature. This allows Landorus-T to take some impressive hits, such as +1 Life Orb Modest Volcarona's Fire Blast, Life Orb Thundurus-T's Hidden Power Ice after 2 previous switches into Stealth Rock, 2 Life Orb-boosted Shadow Balls from a Quiet Aegislash after Stealth Rock (and a Hidden Power Ice after Stealth Rock if it's running that), and it is only 4HKOed by Life Orb Gengar's Shadow Ball. It also deals with Togekiss, Espeon, Latios, Starmie, and Mega Gardevoir, to name a few. However, it also loses the recovery of Leftovers and ability to use Stealth Rock to support its team.

Checks & Counters
########
**Gliscor and Landorus(-T) Opposing Flying / Ground Types**: Gliscor and opposing Landorus(-T) are among the most common switch-ins to Landorus-T, having the bulk to take most physical attacks thrown at them, and crippling Landorus-T with Toxic and Hidden Power Ice, respectively. However, Landorus-T can use Hidden Power Ice as well to dispatch of these checks quickly.

**Skarmory and Bronzong**: Both Skarmory and Bronzong are similar to Gliscor and Landorus(-T) in that they are immune to Earthquake and have massive physical bulk, yet are without the 4x Ice weakness. Skarmory will eventually fall to boosted Stone Edges, though, while Bronzong can be dealt with using Knock Off. Both also fall victim to Gravity, rendering them useless against Landorus-T.

**Rotom-W**: Rotom-W is immune to Earthquake and can either burn Landorus-T or OHKO it with Hydro Pump, but it takes decent damage from Landorus-T's coverage moves and also dislikes Gravity.

**Breloom and Chesnaught**: Breloom and Chesnaught are the only relevant Pokemon that resist the EdgeQuake combo, but Breloom is rather frail, (RC) and is hit hard with Hidden Power Ice or boosted Earthquakes.

**Trevenant and Gourgeist-S**: Trevenant and Gourgeist-S resist Earthquake, have access to Will-O-Wisp, and have good overall bulk, but both must be wary of Knock Off.

**Faster Threats**: Base 91 Speed is pretty average, so faster threats such as Greninja and Kyurem-B as well as common Choice Scarf users such as Rotom-W and Keldeo outspeed Landorus-T and take it out.

**Ice Shard and Aqua Jet Super Effective Priority MOves**: Landorus-T's typing also leaves it weak to priority attacks like Ice Shard and Aqua Jet, so Pokemon like Mamoswine and Azumarill can revenge kill it effectively.

1/2
 
Last edited:

Ash Borer

I've heard they're short of room in hell
before this is done, I have been meaning to add this.

Throw Explosion into moves on scarf. It's considerably strnger than a 2x effective Stone Edge or neutral EQ so it can get some surprise kills, and it never misses, so in a desperate situation it's quite valuable. That, and it retains momentum quite well. Being locked into Stone Edge can give opponents a chance to set up.

Of course it has hte cost of forfeiting a useful coverage move and using it when you still need your revenge killer is a bad idea.
 

TheManlyLadybug

Banned deucer.
before this is done, I have been meaning to add this.

Throw Explosion into moves on scarf. It's considerably strnger than a 2x effective Stone Edge or neutral EQ so it can get some surprise kills, and it never misses, so in a desperate situation it's quite valuable. That, and it retains momentum quite well. Being locked into Stone Edge can give opponents a chance to set up.

Of course it has hte cost of forfeiting a useful coverage move and using it when you still need your revenge killer is a bad idea.
You make a very interesting point, Ash Borer. Choice Scarf Explosion seems like it could work, and little to none of the current common Choice Scarf users can learn Explosion. It actually might be a decent niche for Landorus-T! I have added Explosion to Moves.

Still waiting for the second GP check. :D
 

tehy

Banned deucer.
amcheck

i'd say that mentioning Knock off removing Gliscor's Toxic Orb (And breloom's, if that's still around) is [still relevant, given that you might lead with Lando-t and... more importantly, it really cripples gliscor.

Overview
########
With a plethora of strong physical threats roaming around the OU metagame, Landorus-T establishes itself as a solid check to many of the most popular Pokemon in the tier. Landorus-T's massive base 145 Attack is still amongst the highest in the tier, punching holes in opposing teams with its powerful Ground STAB attacks. Its ability, Intimidate, is perhaps its greatest asset, giving Landorus-T the ability to switch into many physical attackers and soften their assaults. Its defensive typing is also useful, granting it a key resistance to Fighting-type attacks and key immunities to Fighting-, Electric-, and Ground-type attacks, as well as an immunity to both Spikes and Toxic Spikes, and neutrality to Stealth Rock. Landorus-T also has access to boosting moves such as Rock Polish and Swords Dance, granting it the ability to sweep or wallbreak.

However, Landorus-T’s Ground / Flying typing results in susceptibility to many common attacking types, specifically Ice (4x) and Water, which in turn makes it weak to certain priority moves, namely Ice Shard and Aqua Jet. Its base 91 Speed, while not slow, is fairly mediocre and results in Landorus-T finding it hard to keep pace with common Pokemon in the tier. Landorus-T’s offensive options are both few and unreliable; Earthquake is somewhat predictable and easy to switch into, and its coverage moves either have accuracy issues or are rather situational.

Offensive Pivot
########
name: Offensive Pivot
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Earthquake
move 3: U-turn
move 4: Stone Edge / Knock Off / Hidden Power Ice
ability: Intimidate
item: Leftovers
nature: Adamant / Naughty
evs: 248 HP / 16 Atk / 244 Def

Moves
========
Landorus-T has access to Stealth Rock, enabling it to set up a key entry hazard for teams in need of support throughout the entire match. Earthquake is Landorus-T's primary STAB option and hits opposing Pokemon hard, even without investment. U-turn gives Landorus-T the ability to be an effective pivot, scouting potential switch-ins and creating momentum for its teammates. The last move directly correlates to specific checks that need disposing of. (period)Stone Edge allows Landorus-T to be a decent Talonflame and Mega Pinsir check, as whilell as hitting Defog users like Zapdos and Mandibuzz hard and threatening common switch-ins such as Charizard and Kyurem-B. Rock Slide is an effective alternative to Stone Edge if you want the improved accuracy, but hits for noticeably less damage than Stone Edge on certain threats. For example, Rock Slide cannot 2HKO physically defensive Togekiss, while Stone Edge comfortably 2HKOes without Stealth Rock. Knock Off is an excellent support move, removing items such as Skarmory's Leftovers, Chansey's Eviolite, and Choice Scarf from some opposing checks, while potentially 2HKOing other would-be checks like Trevenant, Bronzong, and Gourgeist-S. Hidden Power Ice may seem like an odd choice given Landorus-T's massive Attack stat, but its good base 105 Special Attack enables Hidden Power Ice to hit Gliscor, opposing Landorus and Landorus-T, Garchomp, and Dragonite hard.

Set Details
========
When acting as an offensive pivot, Landorus-T needs all the bulk it can receive from EV investment while retaining the capacity to combat certain threats in the metagame. 248 HP EVs ensures that it takes as little damage as possible when switching into entry hazardsStealth Rock, while 16 Attack EV's guarantees a 2HKO on Multiscale Dragonite with Stone Edge, making Landorus-T a decent check to it. The rest of the EVs are placed into Defense to maximize physical bulk to work in conjunction with Intimidate. An Adamant nature ensures that Landorus-T has enough power to take on opponents while keeping its defenses stable. If one opts for Hidden Power Ice, Naughty is the preferred nature, enabling the coverage moveLandorus-T to hit as hard as possible with it in exchange for a small Special Defense drop. Leftovers gives Landorus-T its only form of health recovery, something it lacks outside of Wish support. An interesting alternative to Leftovers is Rocky Helmet, tacking on extra damage to threats like Talonflame and further hindering the physical attackers of the tier, particularly U-turn users.

Usage Tips
========
As the title suggests, this set gives Landorus-T the ability to be one of the best offensive pivots in the metagame, utilizing its key immunities and resistances in conjunction with Intimidate to switch in on an opposing Pokemon and force the opponent to switch to a Landorus-T check, as they risk taking heavy damage or giving Landorus-T an easy opportunity to set up Stealth Rock. As a result of this, Landorus-T creates a domino effect, enabling teammates to switch in right after and eliminate opposing Pokemon that Landorus-T can't handle by itself. U-turn plays a vital role in this, dealing additional damage while giving teammates a free opportunity to switch in with potentially little consequence. The offensive pivot set can be used in all stages of battle effectively, but it finds its greatest use in the early and middle portions of the game, where it can find opportunities to set up Stealth Rock as often as possible and create momentum for its teammates. Once Stealth Rock is up, Landorus-T should focus on utilizing its powerful STAB Earthquake to punch holes in opposing teams or U-turning to scout switch-ins and provide setup opportunities for teammates. Keep an eye out for Landorus-T checks as the game progresses, using Landorus-T's coverage move of choice when an expected check or counter switches in. Removing checks early on could mean all the difference for Landorus-T later on in the match.

Team Options
========
Rotom-W is the perfect partner in crime for this set, resisting allboth of Landorus-T's weaknesses and using Volt Switch to create an effective VoltTurn core. Rotom-W is also equipped to dispatch most of Landorus-T's checks as well, including opposing Ground / Flying Pokemon and physical walls such as Skarmory and Hippowdon. Similarly, bulky Water-type Pokemon like Vaporeon and Mega Blastoise can switch in on resisted attacks and provide support for Landorus-T and the rest of the team. Wish users likesuch as Vaporeon, Sylveon, and Jirachi are very helpful for Landorus-T, granting it another form of recovery as the match progresses. This set forces many switches throughout the duration of a match and chips away at opposing Pokemon with U-turn, so entry hazards support is always a boon. While Landorus-T can set up Stealth Rock on its own, Spikes support from Pokemon like Ferrothorn and Forretress can help out greatly in racking up damage throughout the match. Forretress in particular can use Volt Switch in conjunction with Landorus-T's U-turn to constantly shift momentum, making it an extremely effective partner.

Choice Scarf
########
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Earthquake
move 2: Stone Edge
move 3: U-turn
move 4: Knock Off / Hidden Power Ice / Superpower
ability: Intimidate
item: Choice Scarf
nature: Jolly / Naive
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

Moves
========
Earthquake is Landorus-T's strongest attacking option, nailing opposing Pokemon for good damage. Stone Edge compliments Earthquake very well, hitting opposing Flying-types that are immune to Landorus-T's STAB move of choice, forming the well-known EdgeQuake combo. U-turn gives Landorus-T a fast method of both finishing off weakened foes and switching out to favorable match-ups, particularly when faced with unexpected switch-ins. The last move of choice, once again, relies upon which check you wish Landorus-T to combat. Knock Off nails Trevenant and Bronzong for big damage and hinders potential switch-ins. Hidden Power Ice provides coverage against opponents that resist the EdgeQuake combo, such as Breloom, as well as coverage against Gliscor and Garchomp. Superpower hits checks Ferrothorn and Mega Gyarados a bit harder than other moves, as well as hitting common Air Balloon users such as Heatran and Excadrill. It is especially important for Mega Gyarados, as OHKOing Mega Gyarados with a Dragon Dance boost under its belt can mean the difference between a win or a loss. Explosion is an option in the fourth move slot, as it is considerably stronger than a super effective Stone Edge or neutral Earthquake, so it can get some surprise kills. It also retains momentum quite well, something all Choice Scarf users struggle with. However, using Explosion forfeits a coverage move, and using it when you need Landorus-T for later is a bad idea.

Set Details
========
While base 91 Speed by itself is middling, attaching a Choice Scarf to Landorus-T enables it to play the role of a fearsome revenge killer as well as a powerful cleaner. Maximum investment in Speed, a positive nature, and a Choice Scarf grants Landorus-T a respectable 464 Speed, enough to outspeed positive-natured base 150s like Mega Alakazam and Mega Aerodactyl as well as +1 neutral-natured base 100 Pokemon. Naive is for sets that include Hidden Power Ice, while Jolly is for any set with a different coverage move. The rest of the EVs are placed into Attack in order to maximize Landorus-T's damage output.

Usage Tips
========
Thanks to Intimidate,this set has a fairly easy time switching into most neutral/non-Ice- or Water-type physical attacks, and it also gets free switches into Electric- and Ground-type attacks, granting it the ability to strike quickly and often. Furthermore, its typing and access to Intimidate grant it the ability to combat some of the most common priority attacks in the game, such as Talonflame's Brave Bird, Lucario's Vacuum Wave, and Scizor's Bullet Punch, allowing Landorus-T to differentiate itself from other users of Choice Scarf, which normally struggle against priority users. As with most good Choice Scarf users, Landorus-T plays an effective role as a revenge killer, but thanks to its massive Attack stat and Intimidate, which often forces switches, it is just as well-versegood mid-game as it is late-game. The ability to predict switch-ins is vital, as a correct selection of Stone Edge or a coverage move could quickly spell the end of a check, opening a clean-up opportunity with Earthquake later in the match. A fast U-turn should never be neglected either; backed with Landorus-T's massive Attack, U-turn can quickly knock out weakened foes and allow for a quick switch-in, generating offensive momentum. However, when U-turn knocks out a foe, it gives the opponent switch advantage. Alter this to make it favorable to you While it might be tempting to abuse a fast and powerful Earthquake or a strong Stone Edge, keep in mind that Choice Scarf locks Landorus-T into one move; Earthquake's predictability and Stone Edge's accuracy issues can be exploited by smart players, so using this set to the best of its ability requires smart decision-making and paying careful attention to the opposing team. Landorus-T faces some competition from Landorus-I, can pull off the same set with higher Speed and Sand Force, but Landorus-T's Intimidate and greater strength outside of sand set it apart from its other forme.

Team Options
========
As this set lacks any form of recovery, the removal of Stealth Rock is a great asset for Landorus-T, allowing it to switch in multiple times without the fear of repeated entry hazard damage. Rapid Spin users like Starmie and Tentacruel pair well with Landorus-T, resisting Water- and Ice-type attacks while drawing in Electric- and Ground-type moves. You can opt to use a Defog user, such as Scizor, Latias, or Latios, but keep in mind that the Choice Scarf set also appreciates entry hazards of its own due to the switches that this set can cause. Wish support from Vaporeon or Jirachi is also welcome, giving opportunities to switch in as the match progresses.

Double Booster
########
name: Double Booster
move 1: Rock Polish
move 2: Swords Dance
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Stone Edge
ability: Intimidate
item: Leftovers
nature: Adamant
evs: 48 HP / 252 Atk / 208 Spe

Moves
========
With access to two great boosting moves in Rock Polish and Swords Dance, Landorus-T can run an effective set that utilizes both moves, allowing it to deal with a variety of opposing playstyles. Rock Polish doubles Landorus-T's Speed, enabling it to outpace practically every Pokemon in the tier. This is useful against fast, offensive teams that could normally outspeed Landorus-T and KO it. Swords Dance, on the other hand, doubles its already massive Attack, making it an effective wallbreaker that can deal with even the bulkiest of checks. Earthquake and Stone Edge provide excellent coverage by themselves, allowing neutral hits on most Pokemon outside of Breloom, Bronzong, and Chesnaught. A boosted STAB Earthquake will put a dent in nearly anything, however, and most things that resist or are immune to Earthquake are dispatched handily by Stone Edge.

Set Details
========
An investment of 208 Speed EVs gives Landorus-T enough Speed to outrun most relevant Pokemon. After a Rock Polish, Landorus-T hits 540 Speed, enough to outspeed +1 base 110 threats such even fast Choice Scarf Pokemon, such as Keldeo and Choice Scarf Latios. An Adamant nature and full investment in Attack ensure that Landorus-T will hit as hard as possible off an astonishing 427 Attack. The remaining 48 EVs are placed in HP to promote overall bulk. Leftovers is the primary item of choice, enabling Landorus-T to set up against walls or slower threats without the worry of repeated weak attacks. Lum Berry and Life Orb are decent alternatives, with the former preventing untimely status effects that could prevent a sweep while giving it setup opportunities against status users, and the latter adding additional punch to attacks both before and after boosting.

Usage Tips
========
The primary role of this set is to sweep, so it's mandatory to switch in on something that ensures a boosting opportunity. The choice of which boosting move to use entirely depends on what the structure of the opposing team is. Use Rock Polish if the opposing team is more offensive, preying on their lack of investment in Defense and upending their normal Speed advantage. Use Swords Dance if the opposing team is more defensive or stall-based, punching massive holes in bulky threats that would normally take Landorus-T's attacks with ease. While scoring a Rock Polish and a Swords Dance at the same time is tempting, Landorus-T often cannot afford the time it takes to set up both. Focusing on one move or the other is often more beneficial than risking taking a massive hit from a check or being phazed out. This set is built for late-game use, gaining an advantage as the last Pokemon standing where it cannot be phazed out by walls like Skarmory and Hippowdon. This set, like the Choice Scarf set, competes with Landorus-I's double booster set, but once again, Intimidate and immediate power sets those two Pokemon apart.

Team Options
========
Entry hazard support could mean the difference between an OHKO and a 2HKO for this set, so teammates that can set them up reliably are a plus; Ferrothorn, Skarmory, and Forretress are all great choices for this role. While double booster Landorus-T seems like a juggernaut, there are certain threats that can switch in and hinder a sweep even after a Rock Polish or Swords Dance. Gliscor, Skarmory, Chesnaught, Hippowdon and opposing Landorus and Landorus-T can come in fairly easy and either deal heavy damage or force Landorus-T out. Greninja makes an excellent offensive partner, utilizing its Protean ability to defeat almost all of these physical threats with ease due to their low Special Defense and weaknesses to Water- and Ice-type attacks. Offensive lures are also great pairings with this set, creating offensive synergy while also dealing with specific checks that hinder a sweep. Ice Punch Lucario and Technician Breloom are good examples of lures that draw in particular threats and dispatch of them before they can react.

Other Options
########
With Landorus-T's base 145 Attack stat, a Choice Band set can be very effective, but its low Speed stat and predictability really let it down in the long run. A set using just one of either Rock Polish or Swords Dance can be used similarly to the double booster set, dropping the second boosting move in favor of a coverage move, but a set like this runs into issues against either offensive teams or defensive teams, depending on which boosting move is dropped.

Gravity is an interesting and effective support move, turning checks like Skarmory, Bronzong, and Zapdos into easy prey. Substitute eases switch-in prediction while also giving Landorus-T some safety against super effective moves, particularly strong priority moves. With the XY sleep mechanics being reverted to the old standard, a Sleep Talk set has gained some viability, giving Landorus-T both reliable recovery and a way to prevent status. However, its unreliable attacking options and lack of a phazing move leave much to be desired compared to other RestTalk users.

Assault Vest can be used to turn Landorus-T into a solid mixed tank with a spread of 248 HP / 56 Atk / 204 SpD with and an Adamant nature. This allows Landorus-T to take some impressive hits, such as +1 Life Orb Modest Volcarona's Fire Blast, Life Orb Thundurus-T's Hidden Power Ice after 2 previous switches into Stealth Rock, 2 Life Orb-boosted Shadow Balls from Quiet Aegislash after Stealth Rock (and a Hidden Power Ice after Stealth Rock if it's running that), and is only 4HKOed by Life Orb Gengar's Shadow Ball. It also deals with Togekiss, Espeon, Latios, Starmie, and Mega Gardevoir, to name a few. However, it also loses the recovery of Leftovers and ability to use Stealth Rock to support its team.

Checks & Counters
########
**Opposing Flying / Ground Types**: Gliscor and opposing Landorus are among the most common switch-ins to Landorus-T, having the bulk to take most physical attacks thrown at them, and crippling Landorus-T with Toxic and Hidden Power Ice, respectively. However, Landorus-T can use Hidden Power Ice as well to dispatch of these checks quickly.

**Skarmory and Bronzong**: Both Skarmory and Bronzong are similar to Gliscor and Landorus in that they are immune to Earthquake and have massive physical bulk, yet are without the 4x Ice weakness. Skarmory will eventually fall to boosted Stone Edges, though, while Bronzong can be dealt with using Knock Off. Both also fall victim to Gravity, rendering them useless against Landorus-T.

**Rotom-W**: Rotom-W is immune to Earthquake and can either burn Landorus-T or OHKO with Hydro Pump, but it takes decent damage from Landorus-T's coverage moves and also dislikes Gravity.

**Breloom and Chesnaught**: Breloom and Chesnaught are the only relevant Pokemon that resist the EdgeQuake combo, but Breloom is rather frail and is hit hard with Hidden Power Ice or boosted Earthquakes.

**Trevenant and Gourgeist-S**: Trevenant and Gourgeist-S resist Earthquake, have access to Will-O-Wisp, and have good overall bulk, but both must be wary of Knock Off.

**Faster Threats**: Base 91 Speed is pretty average, so faster threats such as Greninja and Kyurem-B as well as common Choice Scarf users such as Rotom-W and Keldeo outspeed Landorus-T and take it out.

**Super Effective Priority Moves**: Landorus-T's typing also leaves it weak to priority attacks like Ice Shard and Aqua Jet, so Pokemon like Mamoswine and Azumarill can revenge kill it effectively.
 

Jukain

!_!
is a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Forum Moderator Alumnusis a Tiering Contributor Alumnusis a Top Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Media Contributor Alumnus
- For Speed on the defensive set: Add 4 EVs to outrun Jolly Azu (you might as well), mention Jolly 96 in Set Details to hit 266 for Mega Tar in Set Details.

- Items on the defensive set: Slash in Rocky Helmet, it's nice because it especially punishes Talonflame (and really any physical attack), as well as U-turn spam. Also you can bluff Scarf with it. Earth Plate deserves a Set Details mention for a nice power boost, for example giving Adamant uninvested EQ a 50% chance to OHKO Mega Tyranitar after SR, always putting BD Azu into range where it can't set up after SR, a decent chance to OHKO max HP Aegislash, 2HKO on offensive SD Mega Scizor, more pressure on Mega Venu (35% with EQ to phys def), 67.6% chance to 2HKO Clefable after SR, more pressure on Chansey, 2HKO Quagsire with ~15% prior damag -- a generally very useful power boost. There's a major loss without the passive recovery of Leftovers or w/e extra damage from Rocky Helmet, so it shouldn't be a main slash.

- Deslash HP Ice on Defensive and Scarf. It was mainly used to hit Dragons and Gliscor last gen. EQ does enough to Garchomp, which would be your main target, and Gliscor/other Dragons are less common nowadays (you have Knock Off/U-turn for the Latis). Plus the small sacrifice in special bulk isn't exactly great for Lando-T. Overall it's just an inferior option this gen that shouldn't be on any main set. OO is the place for it.

- Speed on Double Booster: Scarf 108s and Latios are pretty uncommon this gen, such to the point where they really aren't worth outrunning. Deo-S is the highest you need, requiring a spread of 116 HP / 252 Atk / 140 Spe. This provides a good amount more bulk to work with, which helps a lot in setting up. Outrunning these Scarfers should still be mentioned in Set Details, but isn't necessary for the main spread.

- Last slot on Scarf? Currently it's Knock Off / HP Ice / Superpower. With HP Ice removed, we have Knock Off / Superpower. The issue is that Scarf Knock Off is such a loss of momentum, because after the initial hit you're always forced out. It doesn't have some immense coverage utility, either. Meanwhile Superpower smashes Mega Gyarados and Mega Tyranitar, two boosting sweepers that Landorus-T can outspeed and deal with, and hits Ferrothorn for half, putting a lot more pressure on it than your other moves. At the very least Superpower should be the first slash IMO. There's also talk of adding Explosion, which is a pretty good idea. It's kinda situational, but can be very useful in scenarios where you absolutely can't miss/lose momentum, but need power just to smash something, or can't risk the EQ vs U-turn w/e 50/50.

- Impish is kind of extremely useful on defensive Lando-T (brought up by CBB). You really need the extra bulk to deal with Mega Pinsir:

+1 252 Atk Aerilate Mega Pinsir Return vs. 248 HP / 252+ Def Landorus-T: 286-337 (75 - 88.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery

And in general allowing it to handle a bunch of physically offensive threats better:

-1 252+ Atk Choice Band Talonflame Brave Bird vs. 248 HP / 252+ Def Landorus-T: 121-144 (31.7 - 37.7%) -- 0.5% chance to 3HKO after Leftovers recovery
+1 252 Atk Garchomp Outrage vs. 248 HP / 252+ Def Landorus-T: 228-268 (59.8 - 70.3%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
252 Atk Mega Tyranitar Ice Punch vs. 248 HP / 252+ Def Landorus-T: 300-356 (78.7 - 93.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
252+ Atk Tough Claws Mega Charizard X Flare Blitz vs. 248 HP / 252+ Def Landorus-T: 222-262 (58.2 - 68.7%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
-1 252 Atk Choice Band Terrakion Stone Edge vs. 248 HP / 252+ Def Landorus-T: 127-150 (33.3 - 39.3%) -- 19.2% chance to 3HKO after Leftovers recovery
252+ Atk Mold Breaker Mega Gyarados Ice Fang vs. 248 HP / 252+ Def Landorus-T: 276-328 (72.4 - 86%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
-1 252+ Atk Huge Power Mega Mawile Play Rough vs. 248 HP / 252+ Def Landorus-T: 144-169 (37.7 - 44.3%) -- guaranteed 3HKO after Leftovers recovery (+1 Sucker Punch: 50.1 - 59%)
+1 252+ Atk Technician Mega Scizor Bullet Punch vs. 248 HP / 252+ Def Landorus-T: 139-165 (36.4 - 43.3%) -- 98.5% chance to 3HKO after Leftovers recovery
252+ Atk Dragonite Outrage vs. 248 HP / 252+ Def Landorus-T: 169-201 (44.3 - 52.7%) -- guaranteed 3HKO after Leftovers recovery

Some of these calcs can be insignificant in a standard battle setting, but you just see the enormous amount of physical bulk gained that is needed if you want it to handle physical threats really well.
 

TheManlyLadybug

Banned deucer.
- For Speed on the defensive set: Add 4 EVs to outrun Jolly Azu (you might as well), mention Jolly 96 in Set Details to hit 266 for Mega Tar in Set Details.

- Items on the defensive set: Slash in Rocky Helmet, it's nice because it especially punishes Talonflame (and really any physical attack), as well as U-turn spam. Also you can bluff Scarf with it. Earth Plate deserves a Set Details mention for a nice power boost, for example giving Adamant uninvested EQ a 50% chance to OHKO Mega Tyranitar after SR, always putting BD Azu into range where it can't set up after SR, a decent chance to OHKO max HP Aegislash, 2HKO on offensive SD Mega Scizor, more pressure on Mega Venu (35% with EQ to phys def), 67.6% chance to 2HKO Clefable after SR, more pressure on Chansey, 2HKO Quagsire with ~15% prior damage
-- a generally very useful power boost. There's a major loss without the passive recovery of Leftovers or w/e extra damage from Rocky Helmet, so it shouldn't be a main slash.

- Deslash HP Ice on Defensive and Scarf. It was mainly used to hit Dragons and Gliscor last gen. EQ does enough to Garchomp, which would be your main target, and Gliscor/other Dragons are less common nowadays (you have Knock Off/U-turn for the Latis). Plus the small sacrifice in special bulk isn't exactly great for Lando-T. Overall it's just an inferior option this gen that shouldn't be on any main set. OO is the place for it.

- Speed on Double Booster: Scarf 108s and Latios are pretty uncommon this gen, such to the point where they really aren't worth outrunning. Deo-S is the highest you need, requiring a spread of 116 HP / 252 Atk / 140 Spe. This provides a good amount more bulk to work with, which helps a lot in setting up. Outrunning these Scarfers should still be mentioned in Set Details, but isn't necessary for the main spread.

- Last slot on Scarf? Currently it's Knock Off / HP Ice / Superpower. With HP Ice removed, we have Knock Off / Superpower. The issue is that Scarf Knock Off is such a loss of momentum, because after the initial hit you're always forced out. It doesn't have some immense coverage utility, either. Meanwhile Superpower smashes Mega Gyarados and Mega Tyranitar, two boosting sweepers that Landorus-T can outspeed and deal with, and hits Ferrothorn for half, putting a lot more pressure on it than your other moves. At the very least Superpower should be the first slash IMO. There's also talk of adding Explosion, which is a pretty good idea. It's kinda situational, but can be very useful in scenarios where you absolutely can't miss/lose momentum, but need power just to smash something, or can't risk the EQ vs U-turn w/e 50/50.

- Impish is kind of extremely useful on defensive Lando-T (brought up by CBB). You really need the extra bulk to deal with Mega Pinsir:

+1 252 Atk Aerilate Mega Pinsir Return vs. 248 HP / 252+ Def Landorus-T: 286-337 (75 - 88.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery

And in general allowing it to handle a bunch of physically offensive threats better:

-1 252+ Atk Choice Band Talonflame Brave Bird vs. 248 HP / 252+ Def Landorus-T: 121-144 (31.7 - 37.7%) -- 0.5% chance to 3HKO after Leftovers recovery
+1 252 Atk Garchomp Outrage vs. 248 HP / 252+ Def Landorus-T: 228-268 (59.8 - 70.3%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
252 Atk Mega Tyranitar Ice Punch vs. 248 HP / 252+ Def Landorus-T: 300-356 (78.7 - 93.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
252+ Atk Tough Claws Mega Charizard X Flare Blitz vs. 248 HP / 252+ Def Landorus-T: 222-262 (58.2 - 68.7%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
-1 252 Atk Choice Band Terrakion Stone Edge vs. 248 HP / 252+ Def Landorus-T: 127-150 (33.3 - 39.3%) -- 19.2% chance to 3HKO after Leftovers recovery
252+ Atk Mold Breaker Mega Gyarados Ice Fang vs. 248 HP / 252+ Def Landorus-T: 276-328 (72.4 - 86%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
-1 252+ Atk Huge Power Mega Mawile Play Rough vs. 248 HP / 252+ Def Landorus-T: 144-169 (37.7 - 44.3%) -- guaranteed 3HKO after Leftovers recovery (+1 Sucker Punch: 50.1 - 59%)
+1 252+ Atk Technician Mega Scizor Bullet Punch vs. 248 HP / 252+ Def Landorus-T: 139-165 (36.4 - 43.3%) -- 98.5% chance to 3HKO after Leftovers recovery
252+ Atk Dragonite Outrage vs. 248 HP / 252+ Def Landorus-T: 169-201 (44.3 - 52.7%) -- guaranteed 3HKO after Leftovers recovery

Some of these calcs can be insignificant in a standard battle setting, but you just see the enormous amount of physical bulk gained that is needed if you want it to handle physical threats really well.
I implemented most of what you said; however, I'm not really sure about HP Ice and Earth Plate. I think HP Ice deserves a set details mention at least, Gliscor and Dragon-types are definitely worth hitting. I'm skeptic about Earth Plate, it forces you to give up extra damage on physical attackers or the passive recovery of Leftovers for what, a boost to Earthquake? In the Mega Tyranitar calc, you forgot to give Lando-T an Impish nature. Here is the calc with an Impish nature:
Mega Tyranitar: 254-300 (74.4 - 87.9%) -- 6.3% chance to OHKO after Stealth Rock

Not as quite good a chance to OHKO as before. Also it fails to OHKO Aegislash-Shield with Impish:

16 Atk Earth Plate Landorus-T Earthquake vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Aegislash-Shield: 254-302 (78.3 - 93.2%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Stealth Rock and Leftovers recovery

Anyway you get the point, a lot of the calcs you mentioned for Earth Plate aren't correct with an Impish nature. I think it goes in OO, and HP Ice should go in Set Details, I would like others opinions on this first before deslashing HP ice or adding earth plate.
 

Aragorn the King

Literally a duck
is a Forum Moderator Alumnusis a Community Contributor Alumnus
Hey TheManlyLadybug, I'll do an Amcheck for this one too!

Add Remove Comments

Overview
########
With a plethora of strong physical threats roaming around the OU metagame, Landorus-T establishes itself as a solid check to many of the most popular Pokemon in the tier. Landorus-T's massive base 145 Attack is still amongst the highest in the tier, punching holes in opposing teams with its powerful Ground STAB attacks. Its ability, Intimidate, is perhaps its greatest asset, giving Landorus-T the ability to switch into many physical attackers and soften their assaults. Its defensive typing is also useful, granting it a key resistance to Fighting-type attacks and key immunities to Electric- and Ground-type attacks, as well as an immunity to both Spikes and Toxic Spikes and neutrality to Stealth Rock. Landorus-T also has access to boosting moves such as Rock Polish and Swords Dance, granting it the ability to sweep or wallbreak.

However, Landorus-T’s Ground / Flying typing results in susceptibility to many common attacking types, specifically Ice (4x)
(I don't think that's the right way to say in [in parentheses]. I'd just say "a quadruple weakness to Ice...) and Water, which in turn makes it weak to certain priority moves, namely Ice Shard and Aqua Jet. Its base 91 Speed is fairly mediocre and results in Landorus-T finding it hard to keep pace with common Pokemon in the tier. Landorus-T’s offensive options are both few and unreliable; Earthquake is somewhat predictable and easy to switch into, and its coverage moves either have accuracy issues or are rather situational.

Offensive Pivot
########
name: Offensive Pivot
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Earthquake
move 3: U-turn
move 4: Stone Edge / Knock Off / Hidden Power Ice
ability: Intimidate
item: Leftovers / Rocky Helmet
nature: Impish / Lax
evs: 248 HP / 16 Atk / 240 Def / 4 Spe


Moves
========
Landorus-T has access to Stealth Rock, enabling it to set up a key entry hazard for teams in need of support throughout the entire match. Earthquake is Landorus-T's primary STAB option and hits opposing Pokemon hard, even without investment. U-turn gives Landorus-T the ability to be an effective pivot, scouting potential switch-ins and creating momentum for its teammates. The last move directly correlates to specific checks that need disposing of. Stone Edge allows Landorus-T to be a decent Talonflame and Mega Pinsir check, while hitting Defog users like Zapdos and Mandibuzz hard and threatening common switch-ins such as Charizard and Kyurem-B. Rock Slide is an effective alternative to Stone Edge if you want the improved accuracy, but hits for noticeably less damage than Stone Edge on certain threats. For example, Rock Slide cannot 2HKO physically defensive Togekiss, while Stone Edge comfortably 2HKOes without Stealth Rock. Knock Off is an excellent support move, removing items such as Skarmory's Leftovers, Chansey's Eviolite, and Choice Scarf from some opposing checks, while potentially 2HKOing other would-be checks like Trevenant, Bronzong, and Gourgeist-S. Hidden Power Ice may seem like an odd choice given Landorus-T's massive Attack stat, but its good base 105 Special Attack enables Hidden Power Ice to hit Gliscor, opposing Landorus and Landorus-T, Garchomp, and Dragonite hard.


Set Details
========
When acting as an offensive pivot, Landorus-T needs all the bulk it can receive from EV investment while retaining the capacity to combat certain threats in the metagame. 248 HP EVs ensures that it takes as little damage as possible when switching into Stealth Rock, while 16 Attack EV's guarantees a 2HKO on Multiscale Dragonite with Stone Edge, making Landorus-T a decent check to it. Placing 4 EVs in Speed allow Landorus-T to outrun Jolly Azumarill, and the rest of the EVs are placed into Defense to maximize physical bulk to work in conjunction with Intimidate. 96 Speed EVs are an option to outpace Mega Tyranitar. An Impish nature ensures that Landorus-T has enough bulk to take on strong opponents. If one opts for Hidden Power Ice, Lax is the preferred nature, enabling Landorus-T to retain physical bulk in exchange for a small Special Defense drop. Leftovers gives Landorus-T its only form of health recovery, something it lacks outside of Wish support. Rocky Helmet is a viable alternative to Leftovers, tacking on extra damage to physical attackers, especially Talonflame, and punishing U-Turn users. It can also bluff a Choice Scarf with it.


Usage Tips
========

As the title suggests, this set gives Landorus-T the ability to be one of the best offensive pivots in the metagame, utilizing its key immunities and resistances in conjunction with Intimidate to switch in on an opposing Pokemon and force the opponent to switch to a Landorus-T check, as they risk taking heavy damage or giving Landorus-T an easy opportunity to set up Stealth Rock. (Run-on. I'd break it up somewhere) As a result of this, Landorus-T creates a domino effect, enabling teammates to switch in right after and eliminate opposing Pokemon that Landorus-T can't handle by itself. U-turn plays a vital role in this, dealing additional damage while giving teammates a free opportunity to switch in with potentially little consequence. The offensive pivot set can be used in all stages of battle effectively, but it finds its greatest use in the early and middle portions of the game, where it can find opportunities to set up Stealth Rock as often as possible and create momentum for its teammates. Once Stealth Rock is up, Landorus-T should focus on utilizing its powerful STAB Earthquake to punch holes in opposing teams or U-turning to scout switch-ins and provide setup opportunities for teammates. Keep an eye out for Landorus-T checks as the game progresses, using Landorus-T's coverage move of choice when an expected check or counter switches in. Removing checks early on could mean all the difference for Landorus-T later on in the match.

Team Options
========
Rotom-W is the perfect partner in crime for this set, resisting both of Landorus-T's weaknesses and using Volt Switch to create an effective VoltTurn core. Rotom-W is also equipped to dispatch most of Landorus-T's checks as well, including opposing Ground / Flying Pokemon and physical walls such as Skarmory and Hippowdon. Similarly, bulky Water-type Pokemon like Vaporeon and Mega Blastoise can switch in on resisted attacks and provide support for Landorus-T and the rest of the team. Wish users such as Vaporeon, Sylveon,
and Jirachi (unviable Mon, have to remove. Mention Chansey instead) are very helpful for Landorus-T, granting it another form of recovery as the match progresses. This set forces many switches throughout the duration of a match and chips away at opposing Pokemon with U-turn, so entry hazards support is always a boon. While Landorus-T can set up Stealth Rock on its own, Spikes support from Pokemon like Ferrothorn and Forretress (unviable. Say Roserade or Scolipede) can help out greatly in racking up damage throughout the match. Forretress (again, an unviable Pokemon you've gotta remove. Unless you can think of another hazard setter with VoltTurning capabilities, I'd remove the red text after this as well) in particular can use Volt Switch in conjunction with Landorus-T's U-turn to constantly shift momentum, making it an extremely effective partner.

Choice Scarf
########
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Earthquake
move 2: Stone Edge
move 3: U-turn
move 4: Superpower / Knock Off / Hidden Power Ice
ability: Intimidate
item: Choice Scarf
nature: Jolly / Naive
evs:
116 140 HP / 252 Atk / 140 116 Spe

Moves
========
Earthquake is Landorus-T's strongest attacking option, nailing opposing Pokemon for good damage. Stone Edge compliments Earthquake very well, hitting opposing Flying-types that are immune to Landorus-T's STAB move of choice, forming the well-known EdgeQuake combo. U-turn gives Landorus-T a fast method of both finishing off weakened foes and switching out to favorable match-ups, particularly when faced with unexpected switch-ins. The last move of choice, once again, relies upon which check you wish Landorus-T to combat. Knock Off nails
Trevenant and Bronzong (both unviable Mons that have to be removed. Think of some other examples, or just say Chansey) for big damage and hinders potential switch-ins. Hidden Power Ice provides coverage against opponents that resist the EdgeQuake combo, such as Breloom, as well as coverage against Gliscor and Garchomp. Superpower hits checks Ferrothorn and Mega Gyarados a bit harder than other moves, as well as hitting common Air Balloon users such as Heatran and Excadrill. It is especially important for Mega Gyarados, as OHKOing Mega Gyarados with a Dragon Dance boost under its belt can mean the difference between a win or a loss. Explosion is an option in the fourth move slot, as it is considerably stronger than a super effective Stone Edge or neutral Earthquake, so it can get some surprise kills. It also retains momentum quite well, something all Choice Scarf users struggle with. However, using Explosion forfeits a coverage move, and using it when you need Landorus-T for later is a bad idea.

Set Details
========
While base 91 Speed by itself is middling, attaching a Choice Scarf to Landorus-T enables it to play the role of a fearsome revenge killer as well as a powerful cleaner.
140 116 EVs in Speed allow it to outpace Deoxys-S Mega Manectric, an important target (This Lando-T hits 417 Speed, while Deoxys-S hits 501 Speed. That's a huge difference. 417 speed only lets you outspeed Electrode, which is the definition of irrelevant. Only 116 Speed EV's are necessary to outspeed Mega Manectric, and that really should be your goal. Now that I look at it, I'm guessing you just switched the Speed and HP EV's around. You should switch them, and change Deo-S to Mega Manectric). Full investment in Speed is an option, as this allows it to outrun neutral +1 base 100s. Naive is for sets that include Hidden Power Ice, while Jolly is for any set with a different coverage move. The rest of the EVs are placed into Attack in order to maximize Landorus-T's damage output.

Usage Tips
========
Thanks to Intimidate, this set has a fairly easy time switching into most neutral physical attacks, and gets free switches into Electric- and Ground-type attacks, granting it the ability to strike quickly and often. Furthermore, its typing and access to Intimidate grant it the ability to combat some of the most common priority attacks in the game, such as Talonflame's Brave Bird, Lucario's
Vacuum Wave Extreme Speed (Lucario never uses Vacuum Wave. Ever. Special Lucario isn't viable. Plus, Intimidate wouldn't even help. Extreme Speed?), and Scizor's Bullet Punch, allowing Landorus-T to differentiate itself from other users of Choice Scarf, which normally struggle against priority users. As with most good Choice Scarf users, Landorus-T plays an effective role as a revenge killer, but thanks to its massive Attack stat and Intimidate, which often forces switches, it is just as well-versed mid-game as it islate-game. The ability to predict switch-ins is vital, as a correct selection of Stone Edge or a coverage move could quickly spell the end of a check, opening a clean-up opportunity with Earthquake later in the match. A fast U-turn should never be neglected either; backed with Landorus-T's massive Attack, U-turn can quickly knock out weakened foes and allow for a quick switch-in, generating offensive momentum. However, when U-turn knocks out a foe, it gives the opponent switch advantage. (Can you bold things? I'm not sure. I wouldn't, but if it's fine, it's fine). While it might be tempting to abuse a fast and powerful Earthquake or a strong Stone Edge, keep in mind that Choice Scarf locks Landorus-T into one move; Earthquake's predictability and Stone Edge's accuracy issues can be exploited by smart players, so using this set to the best of its ability requires smart decision-making and paying careful attention to the opposing team. Landorus-T faces some competition from Landorus-I, can pull off the same set with higher Speed and Sand Force, but Landorus-T's Intimidate and greater strength outside of sand set it apart from its other forme. (I wouldn't even mention Landorus-I here. Its Sand Force sets are rare, and iirc, don't use Scarf.)
Team Options
========
As this set lacks any form of recovery, the removal of Stealth Rock is a great asset for Landorus-T, allowing it to switch in multiple times without the fear of repeated entry hazard damage. Rapid Spin users like Starmie and
Tentacruel (Again, unviable mon that has to be removed) pair well with Landorus-T, resisting Water- and Ice-type attacks while drawing in Electric- and Ground-type moves. You can opt to use a Defog user, such as Scizor, Latias, or Latios, but keep in mind that theChoice The Choice (you forgot a space between the words) Scarf set also appreciates entry hazards of its own due to the switches that this set can cause. Wish support from Vaporeon or Jirachi (same thing here. Change to Sylveon and Chansey) is also welcome, giving opportunities to switch in as the match progresses.

Double Booster Dance
########
name: Double Booster
move 1: Rock Polish
move 2: Swords Dance
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Stone Edge
ability: Intimidate
item: Leftovers
nature: Adamant
evs: 48 HP / 252 Atk / 208 Spe


Moves
========
With access to two great boosting moves in Rock Polish and Swords Dance, Landorus-T can run an effective set that utilizes both moves, allowing it to deal with a variety of opposing playstyles. Rock Polish doubles Landorus-T's Speed, enabling it to outpace practically every Pokemon in the tier. This is useful against fast, offensive teams that could normally outspeed Landorus-T and KO it. Swords Dance, on the other hand, doubles its already massive Attack, making it an effective wallbreaker that can deal with even the bulkiest of checks. Earthquake and Stone Edge provide excellent coverage by themselves, allowing neutral hits on most Pokemon outside of Breloom, Bronzong, and Chesnaught. A boosted STAB Earthquake will put a dent in nearly anything, however, and most things that resist or are immune to Earthquake are dispatched handily by Stone Edge.


Set Details
========
An investment of 208 Speed EVs gives Landorus-T enough Speed to outrun
most relevant Pokemon (be more specific. Who can it/can it not outspeed?). After a Rock Polish, Landorus-T hits 540 Speed, enough to outspeed even fast Choice Scarf Pokemon such as Keldeo and Latios (Choice Scarf Keldeo was deemed unviable. Replace with another good Scarfer, like Chomp). An Adamant nature and full investment in Attack ensure that Landorus-T will hit as hard as possible off an astonishing 427 Attack. The remaining 48 EVs are placed in HP to promote overall bulk. Leftovers is the primary item of choice, enabling Landorus-T to set up against walls or slower threats without the worry of repeated weak attacks. Lum Berry and Life Orb are decent alternatives, with the former preventing untimely status effects that could prevent a sweep while giving it setup opportunities against status users and the latter adding additional punch to attacks both before and after boosting.

Usage Tips
========
The primary role of this set is to sweep, so it's mandatory to switch in on something that ensures a boosting opportunity. The choice of which boosting move to use entirely depends on what the structure of the opposing team is. Use Rock Polish if the opposing team is more offensive, preying on their lack of investment in Defense and upending their normal Speed advantage. Use Swords Dance if the opposing team is more defensive or stall-based, punching massive holes in bulky threats that would normally take Landorus-T's attacks with ease. While scoring a Rock Polish and a Swords Dance at the same time is tempting, Landorus-T often cannot afford the time it takes to set up both. Focusing on one move or the other is often more beneficial than risking taking a massive hit from a check or being phazed out. This set is built for late-game use, gaining an advantage as the last Pokemon standing where it cannot be phazed out by walls like Skarmory and Hippowdon.
This set, like the Choice Scarf set, competes with Landorus-I's double booster set, but once again, Intimidate and immediate power sets those two Pokemon apart. (Physical Landorus-I was deemed unviable. This encompasses Scarf and Double Dance sets)

Team Options
========
Entry hazard support could mean the difference between an OHKO and a 2HKO for this set, so teammates that can set them up reliably are a plus; Ferrothorn, Skarmory, and
Forretress (unviable) are all great choices for this role. Whiledouble While Double Dance booster Landorus-T seems like a juggernaut, there are certain threats that can switch in and hinder a sweep even after a Rock Polish or Swords Dance. Gliscor, Skarmory, Chesnaught, Hippowdon and opposing Landorus and Landorus-T can come in fairly easy and either deal heavy damage or force Landorus-T out. Greninja makes an excellent offensive partner, utilizing its Protean ability to defeat almost all of these physical threats with ease due to their low Special Defense and weaknesses to Water- and Ice-type attacks. Offensive lures are also great pairings with this set, creating offensive synergy while also dealing with specific checks that hinder a sweep. Ice Punch Lucario and Technician Breloom are good examples of lures that draw in particular threats and dispatch of them before they can react.

Other Options
########
With Landorus-T's base 145 Attack stat, a Choice Band set can be very effective, but its low Speed stat and predictability really let it down in the long run. A set using just one of either Rock Polish or Swords Dance can be used similarly to the double booster set, dropping the second boosting move in favor of a coverage move, but a set like this runs into issues against either offensive teams or defensive teams, depending on which boosting move is dropped.
Gravity is an interesting and effective support move, turning checks like Skarmory, Bronzong (unviable...), and Zapdos into easy prey. Substitute eases switch-in prediction while also giving Landorus-T some safety against super effective moves, particularly strong priority moves. With the XY sleep mechanics being reverted to the old standard, a Sleep Talk set has gained some viability, giving Landorus-T both reliable recovery and a way to prevent status. However, its unreliable attacking options and lack of a phazing move leave much to be desired compared to other RestTalk users. Assault Vest can be used to turn Landorus-T into a solid mixed tank with a spread of 248 HP / 56 Atk / 204 SpD with and an Adamant nature. This allows Landorus-T to take some impressive hits, such as +1 Life Orb Modest Volcarona's Fire Blast, Life Orb Thundurus-T's Hidden Power Ice after 2 previous switches into Stealth Rock, 2 Life Orb-boostedShadow Balls from Quiet Aegislash after Stealth Rock (and a Hidden Power Ice after Stealth Rock if it's running that), and is only 4HKOed by Life Orb Gengar's Shadow Ball. Italso deals with Togekiss, Espeon, Latios, Starmie, and Mega Gardevoir, to name a few. However, it also loses the recovery of Leftovers and ability to use Stealth Rock to support its team.

(I think this is supposed to be in one paragraph, as evident here, but I'm not 100% sure.)

Checks & Counters
########
**Opposing Flying / Ground Types**: Gliscor and opposing Landorus are among the most common switch-ins to Landorus-T, having the bulk to take most physical attacks thrown at them, and crippling Landorus-T with Toxic and Hidden Power Ice, respectively. However, Landorus-T can use Hidden Power Ice as well to dispatch of these checks quickly.


**Skarmory and Bronzong**: Both Skarmory and Bronzong (unviable) are similar to Gliscor and Landorus in that they are immune to Earthquake and have massive physical bulk, yet are without the 4x Ice weakness. Skarmory will eventually fall to boosted Stone Edges, though, while Bronzong can be dealt with using Knock Off. Both also fall victim to Gravity, rendering them useless against Landorus-T.

**Rotom-W**: Rotom-W is immune to Earthquake and can either burn Landorus-T or OHKO with Hydro Pump, but it takes decent damage from Landorus-T's coverage moves and also dislikes Gravity.

**Breloom and Chesnaught**: Breloom and Chesnaught are the only relevant Pokemon that resist the EdgeQuake combo, but Breloom is rather frail and is hit hard with Hidden Power Ice or boosted Earthquakes.

**Trevenant and Gourgeist-S**: Trevenant and Gourgeist-S (unviable. Also, why no mention of Gourgeist-XL?) resist Earthquake, have access to Will-O-Wisp, and have good overall bulk, but both must be wary of Knock Off.

**Faster Threats**: Base 91 Speed is pretty average, so faster threats such as Greninja and Kyurem-B as well as common Choice Scarf users such as Rotom-W and Keldeo outspeed Landorus-T and take it out.

**Super Effective Priority Moves**: Landorus-T's typing also leaves it weak to priority attacks like Ice Shard and Aqua Jet, so Pokemon like Mamoswine and Azumarill can revenge kill it effectively.
There were a lot of issues regarding unviable sets/pokemon, but other than that this was really good!

EDIT: I have no idea why the quote box broke into two. Oh well. Sorry!
 

Jukain

!_!
is a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Forum Moderator Alumnusis a Tiering Contributor Alumnusis a Top Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Media Contributor Alumnus
I implemented most of what you said; however, I'm not really sure about HP Ice and Earth Plate. I think HP Ice deserves a set details mention at least, Gliscor and Dragon-types are definitely worth hitting. I'm skeptic about Earth Plate, it forces you to give up extra damage on physical attackers or the passive recovery of Leftovers for what, a boost to Earthquake? In the Mega Tyranitar calc, you forgot to give Lando-T an Impish nature. Here is the calc with an Impish nature:
Mega Tyranitar: 254-300 (74.4 - 87.9%) -- 6.3% chance to OHKO after Stealth Rock

Not as quite good a chance to OHKO as before. Also it fails to OHKO Aegislash-Shield with Impish:

16 Atk Earth Plate Landorus-T Earthquake vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Aegislash-Shield: 254-302 (78.3 - 93.2%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Stealth Rock and Leftovers recovery

Anyway you get the point, a lot of the calcs you mentioned for Earth Plate aren't correct with an Impish nature. I think it goes in OO, and HP Ice should go in Set Details, I would like others opinions on this first before deslashing HP ice or adding earth plate.
Earth Plate was meant for Adamant, sorry. OO is right for it. And as long as HP Ice is not slashed it's fine wherever you put it (users such as CBB, Dice, Ash Borer support this change).

You put the Double Booster spread to Scarf, please fix that.

Nice job on this all btw!
 
If you're going with Impish as the main nature, go ahead and move those 16 Atk EVs to HP and Def to max those stats out. The old Adamant spread used them to get the first Atk jump point, which is no longer applicable. Of course, they're fine if you need them to achieve a certain KO, but I'm not sure if that's the case.
 

TheManlyLadybug

Banned deucer.
Hey TheManlyLadybug, I'll do an Amcheck for this one too!

Add Remove Comments


There were a lot of issues regarding unviable sets/pokemon, but other than that this was really good!

EDIT: I have no idea why the quote box broke into two. Oh well. Sorry!
Thank you for the amcheck finncent1! Your changes have been implemented in the analysis.
 

TheManlyLadybug

Banned deucer.
If you're going with Impish as the main nature, go ahead and move those 16 Atk EVs to HP and Def to max those stats out. The old Adamant spread used them to get the first Atk jump point, which is no longer applicable. Of course, they're fine if you need them to achieve a certain KO, but I'm not sure if that's the case.
Thank you for pointing that out, I will move the EVs to HP and Defense.
 

alexwolf

lurks in the shadows
is a Forum Moderator Alumnusis a Community Contributor Alumnusis a Tiering Contributor Alumnusis a Top Contributor Alumnus
Kinda late, but I have been Knock Off instead of Swords Dance and Earth Plate instead of Leftovers on the double dance set, and it has been working great. First of all, with Rock Polish + 3 attacks, Landorus-T becomes an amazing cleaner, as it is able to OHKO most offensive Pokemon, can set up easily, and doesn't fear priority that much, while being impossble to outspeed obviously. Knock Off has a dual purpose. First, it OHKOes Latios, Latias, and Gengar, (Latias with the help of SR to be guaranteed) all of which could otherwise take one Stone Edge even after SR, and OHKO back or cripple Lando-T. Second, it allows Landorus-T to cripple its checks and counters early and mid-game, such as Rotom-W, Landorus-T, and Skarmory, which means that Lando-T can lure and weaken its own counters. Couple Lando-T with a strong SR setter and some offensive mons to keep the pressure up, and weakening Lando-T's checks to the point that Lando-T can sweep is not hard at all. For those reasons i think that Knock Off should get a Moves mention, as it's quite useful from my experience.

However, Earth Plate should just get a slash on the main set, it's that good. Whether you are using it with both boosting moves or 3 attacks, Earth Plate is amazing, and makes Lando-T both a better wallbreaker and a better cleaner. Here are some calcs:
  • 252+ Atk Earth Plate Landorus-T Earthquake vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Keldeo: 255-301 (78.9 - 93.1%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
  • 252+ Atk Earth Plate Landorus-T Earthquake vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Azumarill: 280-331 (81.8 - 96.7%) -- 62.5% chance to OHKO after Stealth Rock
  • 252+ Atk Earth Plate Landorus-T Earthquake vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Aegislash-Shield: 330-390 (101.8 - 120.3%) -- guaranteed OHKO
  • 252+ Atk Earth Plate Landorus-T Earthquake vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Mega Venusaur: 145-172 (39.8 - 47.2%) -- 46.5% chance to 2HKO after Stealth Rock
  • 252+ Atk Earth Plate Landorus-T Earthquake vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Hippowdon: 202-238 (48 - 56.6%) -- 88.3% chance to 2HKO after Stealth Rock and Leftovers recovery
  • 252+ Atk Earth Plate Landorus-T Earthquake vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Garchomp: 244-288 (68.1 - 80.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Stealth Rock
  • 252+ Atk Earth Plate Landorus-T Earthquake vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Clefable: 205-243 (52 - 61.6%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Stealth Rock and Leftovers recovery
  • 252+ Atk Earth Plate Landorus-T Earthquake vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Quagsire: 186-220 (47.2 - 55.8%) -- 78.5% chance to 2HKO after Stealth Rock and Leftovers recovery
  • 252+ Atk Earth Plate Landorus-T Earthquake vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Eviolite Chansey: 309-364 (43.8 - 51.7%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Stealth Rock
  • +4 252+ Atk Earth Plate Landorus-T Earthquake vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Chesnaught: 219-258 (57.6 - 67.8%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery (boost twice as it switches in and uses Leech Seed, and then 2HKO)
As you can see, with Earth Plate, Landorus-T can 2HKO most stall Pokemon not named Skarmory with just unboosted EQ, as long as SR is up, including Clefable and Quagsire, which dgaf about SD. So, as long as you have a way to deal with Skarmory or weaken it to the point that +2 SE can OHKO, Lando-T can deal with stall teams all on its own, as it is KOing a Pokemon every time it comes in. Likewise, Earth Plate helps against many offensive Pokemon, letting Landorus-T clean after a Rock Polish much eaiser, as showcased by the calcs against Keldeo, Azumarill, Garchomp.


tl;dr Earth Plate EQ is a fucking nuke so Earth Plate deserves a slash on the double dance set, while Knock Off is good enough to get a Moves mention.
 

watashi

is a Team Rater Alumnusis a Forum Moderator Alumnusis a Community Contributor Alumnusis a Top Tiering Contributor Alumnusis a Contributor Alumnusis a Three-Time Past SPL Champion
World Defender
the choice scarf set has an inefficient spread. running 140 hp / 156 attack / 212 spe with adamant gives you 12 extra points in attack with the same speed and hp
 

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

Top