PU Luxray

QC: WhiteDMist / Raiza. / TONE114
GP: Winry / The Dutch Plumberjack



[OVERVIEW]
Luxray fits best on offensive and balanced teams as a wallbreaker and an offensive pivot due to its ability Intimidate, which allows Luxray to perform this role decently well. Intimidate is useful to lighten damage taken from physical attackers, and Guts could allow Luxray to absorb Will-O-Wisp or another non-volatile status. Its good physical movepool plus Volt Switch give it an important niche in the PU tier, despite the fact that its modest Speed is not sufficient enought to outspeed many foes and without an Adamant nature the power loss is substantial. Even though Luxray is powerful, it's often outclassed by other offensive Electric-types such as Raichu and Zebstrika due to its lower Speed.

[SET]
name: Choice Band
move 1: Wild Charge
move 2: Ice Fang
move 3: Superpower
move 4: Volt Switch
item: Choice Band
ability: Intimidate
nature: Adamant
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves

========
Despite its recoil damage, Wild Charge basically hits everything that isn't immune to it hard; it's mainly useful against Pokemon such as Pelipper and Poliwrath. Ice Fang provides excellent coverage with Wild Charge, hitting common Grass-types and bulky Ground-types such as Torterra. Superpower hits Normal- and Steel-types and Pokemon such as Piloswine, which resists BoltBeam coverage. Because Wild Charge, Ice Fang, and Superpower provide good coverage, Luxray can easily afford to run Volt Switch as its last move. Volt Switch lets Luxray scout for switches against disadvantageous foes, giving you momentum, so it's really useful in tandem with Intimidate, as it makes Luxray a viable pivot.

Set Details
==========
The EV spread, Adamant nature, and Choice Band maximize Luxray's Attack. Speed investment brings Luxray's Speed to a decent level. An Adamant nature is essential to KO Carracosta. Intimidate is useful to soften up damage from physical attackers; it can be used to weaken and force out physical attackers, easing the job of revenge killers. Intimidate can also somewhat muzzle threats such as Shell Smash Carracosta, Swords Dance Leafeon, and Swords Dance Jumpluff; while Luxray is by no means counters to these Pokemon, it can use Intimidate to weaken them and make them a lot less scary. This is invaluable to a lot of teams that don't run Poliwrath. Finally, Volt Switch is just too important to Luxray's role as a bulky pivot to give up and is nice for pivoting out of Pokemon such as Tangela.

Usage Tips
==========
Luxray, especially when running Intimidate, should be brought in on weak attackers and other Pokemon to force them out, therefore gaining momentum. It's better to use Volt Switch against bulkier teams to wear down foes and gain momentum, but be careful when pivoting in against Defiant users, as giving them a free Attack boost is dangerous. Luxray should be used to break down walls with its powerful attacks, but don't expect it to sweep with its mediocre Speed. Also, Luxray must be used in a slow VoltTurn team, as this will allow it to safely switch into strong attackers, especially specially based ones. Even if Luxray could revenge kill many Pokemon such as Haunter, Raichu, and Rotom-F, it can't switch in safely against them.

Team Options
============
Stealth Rock setters such as Probopass and Golem make it easier for Luxray to wallbreak, especially against Raichu and Regice. Spikes setters such as Roselia are really appreciated as well. Roselia can also take advantage of opposing Tangela rather easily. Even Toxic Spikes support works, especially against bulky Ground-types. Thunder Wave support slows down foes and makes it easier for Luxray to handle them.
Pokemon that are immune or resistant to Ground-type attacks, such as Jumpluff, as Torterra, and Leafeon, are also good teammates because Luxray is weak to Ground. Then, setup sweepers such as Ninetales, Leafeon, and Jumpluff or weather sweepers such as Rain Dance Poliwrath are good teammates, as Luxray can help them find setup opportunities with Intimidate. Luxray fits well in VoltTurn cores, where it can be switched in safely.

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

An Assault Vest set is playable because it can defeat all relevant Defog users in the tier and take advantage of potential Scald burns to gain an Attack boost, if you use Guts. Despite the fact that there are better switch-ins for Water-type Defoggers, Luxray takes special attacks, such as Swanna and Pelipper's Scald, better when equipped with an Assault Vest. Crunch hits Gourgeist-XL significantly harder than Ice Fang and has a chance to cleanly 2HKO after Stealth Rock, but it's usually not worth using over Luxray's other moves. Quick Attack can be used as a form of priority to finish off weak foes such as a Ninetales at around 30% of total HP, as well as Jumpluff and Ursaring. A Guts set with Toxic Orb and Facade is also playable. However, a Choice Band set is preferred because it gives Luxray better power right off the bat and does not require Luxray take residual damage from poison or burn. Regarding natures, a Jolly nature allows Luxray to outspeed Barbaracle, neutral-natured Poliwrath, Drifblim, and Kricketune, but it has less power. A Choice Scarf set can be used, but the Speed boost isn't too substantial, and without Choice Band, Luxray's attacking capacity is too weak.

Checks & Counters
=============
**Ground-types**
: Support Stunfisk resists Luxray's attacks and can hit it with Earth Power, and Marowak KOes Luxray with Bonemerang. Piloswine, despite the fact that it's hit hard by Superpower, can revenge kill Luxray with Earthquake.

**Grass-types**: Usually, Grass-types are pretty good checks and counters to Luxray; for example, even if Tangela has taken a lot of residual damage and is 2HKOed by Ice Fang on the switch, it can pivot out to a resist and get its health back with Regenerator. Also, it's impossibile for Luxray to switch in on Torterra. Gourgeist-XL can switch into Wild Charge with ease and is only 3HKOed by Ice Fang; after getting in, it can heal off damage with Synthesis, cripple Luxray with Will-O-Wisp, or retaliate with Foul Play.

**Electric-types**: Zebstrika and Raichu ara faster and, despite the fact that Luxray's Superpower cleanly OHKOes both, Lightningrod variants can switch in on Volt Switch or Wild Charge.

**Offensive Checks**: Life Orb Ninetales, Torterra, Rotom-F, and Choice Specs Chatot can OHKO or 2HKO Luxray, thus making them good offensive checks that force Luxray out.

**Status**: Will-O-Wisp halves Luxray's Attack, rendering it less effective, and Toxic puts a timer on Luxray. Obviously, this is a non-issue for Guts Luxray variants.

[OVERVIEW]
Luxray fits best on offensive and balanced teams acting as wallbreaker as a offensive pivot, Intimidate ability allow Luxray to perform this role decently well. In fact its good physical movepool plus Volt Switch give it an important niche on PU tier, despite its modest Speed is not sufficient to outspeed opponents and without an Adamant nature the power loss is substantial. Its abilities, Intimidate and Guts, are really competitive abilities. In particular, Intimidate is useful to lighten damages from physical attackers, Guts could be activated from an exact game predict to absorb Will-O-Wisp or another non-volatile status. Intimidate and Guts are also representing niche abilities, making Luxray a valid option over other Electric-types. Even if Luxray is powerful, it's often outclassed from others offensive electric-type as Raichu and Zebstrika, due of its lower speed. In fact Jolly Barbaracle, Simipour and Kadabra always outspeed Luxray (only Electabuzz has a speed tie with Kadabra, if it don't carry Hidden Power Fighting).

[SET]
name: Choice Band
move 1: Wild Charge
move 2: Ice Fang
move 3: Superpower
move 4: Volt Switch
item: Choice Band
ability: Intimidate
nature: Adamant
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves

========
Wild Charge is the Physical STAB move on this set; despite its recoil, Wild Charge basically hits hard everything that isn't immune to it and it's mainly useful against Pokemon such as Pelipper and Poliwrath. Ice Fang provides decent coverage with Wild Charge, hitting common Grass-types opponents and bulky Ground-types Pokemons such as Torterra. Superpower integrates Luxray's Attack, hitting Normal- and Steel-types but alsoProbopass and Piloswine, too. In particular it's important to highlight Superpower Luxray's effectiveness against Piloswine. That's a very prominent 'mon that resists BoltBeam coverage and Superpower hits it incredibly hard, having a chance to OHKO after Rocks. Since Wild Charge, Ice Fang and Superpower provide a good coverage, it can easily afford to run Volt Switch as its last move. Volt Switch lets you scout for switches against disadvantageous opponents, giving you momentum, so it's really useful in tandem with Intimidate, as it makes Luxray a viable pivot.

Set Details
==========
The EVs spread, Adamant nature and Choice Band item maximize Luxray's Attack. Also a Speed investment keeps Luxray's Speed at least decent. An Adamant nature is essential to KO Carracosta. Intimidate is useful to soften up damage from physical attackers; Intimidate can be so useful that you can use it to weaken and force switches of physical attackers opponent, even to ease the job of revengekillers against a dangerous threat, sacrificing Luxray itself. It's also good to sort of muzzle threats like Shell Smash Carracosta, Sword Dance Leafeon, and Sword Dance Jumpluff; while Luxray is by no means counters to these Pokemons, it can use Intimidate to weaken them severely; +1 Carracosta is definitely a lot less scary to handle and this is invaluable to a lot of teams that don't run Poliwrath. Finally, Volt Switch is just too important to Luxray's role as a bulky pivot to give up and it is just nice for pivoting out of Pokemons like Tangela.

Usage Tips
==========
Luxray, especially when running Intimidate, should be brought in on weak attackers and others Pokemons to force their switch out, therefore gain momentum with Volt Switch or directly go for a stronger move to damage the switch. It's better to use Volt Switch against bulkier teams to wear down foes and gain momentum, but be careful pivoting in against Defiant users, as giving them a free dangerous Attack boost. Luxray should be used to break down walls with its powerful attacks, but not to expect it to sweep with its mediocre Speed. Also, Luxray must be considerated in a slow VoltTurn team to safely switch into strong attackers, especially specially based ones. Even if Luxray could revenge kill many Pokemons as Haunter, Raichu, and Rotom-F, it can't switch in safely against them.

Team Options
============
Stealth Rock setters as Propobass and Golem are good teammates, because they make easier its wallbreaker role, e.g. against Raichu and Regice. But also spikes setters as Roselia are really appreciated. Roselia also takes advantage against Tangela rather easily (Tangela can't do much to Roselia while Roselia can setup spikes and threaten it with a Sludge Bomb). More broadly Luxray will be able to force switches and gaining momentum with Volt Switch, its counters/checks are more easily worn down with hazard support. Even Toxic Spikes support is a good Luxray's synergy, especially against bulky Ground-types and at the same time Thunder Wave support is well-accepted because it slows down opponent pokemons and so a possible gap against Luxray could be lowered.
Ground immune as as Jumpluff or resistors as bulky Torterra, and Leafeon are also good teammates because Luxray is unable to tollerate Ground attacks as Earthquake or Earth Power; they are all worthy of consideration too as due of Intimidate ability, setup sweepers such as Ninetales, Leafeon, and Jumpluff or weather sweepers such as Rain Dance Poliwrath. Finally, it's not difficult to see Luxray in a slow VoltTurn. Luxray fits well in VoltTurn cores because it appreciates to get brought into field with safety and with Intimidate's support. Probopass (as other volt switcher), Ninjask, Togetic and Jumpluff.

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

An Luxray Assault Vest set is playable because it can defeat all relevant Defog users in the tier and take advantage of potential Scald burns to gain an Attack boost, if you use Guts ability. Despite there are better switch-in to water-type defog-ers, Luxray takes special attacks (such as Swanna/Pelipper's Scald) better from defoggers. Crunch hits Gourgiest-XL forms significantly harder and gives it a chance to cleanly 2HKO after Stealth Rock. But it's not easy to prefer it over main moves. Quick Attack can be used as a form of priority to finish weak opponents as a Ninetales at around 30% of total HP, as well as Jumpluff and Ursuring. A Guts set with Toxic Orb and Facade is always playable, searching on game a free turn to activate its Status Orb. Choice Band set is better because it gives it the utility of a pivot as well as better power right off the bat, without requiring to take residual damage from poison/burn. Around different natures, a Jolly nature gives Luxray more speed, outspeed Barbaracle, neutral Poliwrath, Drifblim and Kricketune But it can't hit with enough power, too. Then, a Choice Scarf set can be used but speed boost isn't not so considerable and without Choice Band, Luxray's attacking capacity is too weak.

Checks & Counters
=============
**Ground-types**
: support Stunkfisk could resist against Luxray attack and can hit it with Earth Power, Marowak KOs Luxray with Bonemerang. Piloswine, despite it's hit hard from Superpower, can revenge kill Luxray with Earthquake.

**Grass-types**: Usually, Grass-types are pretty good checks and counters to Luxray; even if Tangela has taken a lot of residual damage and is 2HKOed by Ice Fang on the switch, it can pivot out to a resist and regenerate its health back with Regenerator. Also it's impossibile to Luxray switch on Torterra, too. Also Gourgeist-XL can switch into Wild Charge with ease and it's only 3HKOd by Ice Fang; then it can heal off damage with Synthesis, cripple Luxray with Will-O-Wisp, or retaliate with Foul Play.

**Electric-types**: Zebstrika and Raichu ara faster and despite Luxray's Superpower cleanly OHKOes both, Lightningrod variants can switch in on Volt Switch or Wild Charge. Also it's impossible to switch in front of us, due to Specs Raichu Focus Blast or Zebstrika Overheat.

**Offensive Checkers**: Life Orb Ninetales, Torterra, Rotom-F, Choice Specs Chatot can OHKO or 2HKO Luxray, thus making them good offensive checks that force Luxray out. Many of them are faster than Luxray as well, allowing them to easily revenge kill it.

**Status**: Will-O-Wisp halves Luxray's Attack, rendering it less effective, Toxic puts a timer on Luxray's longevity too. Obviously, this is a non-issue for Guts Luxray variants.
 
Last edited by a moderator:

Grim

The Ghost
is a Tiering Contributor Alumnusis a Contributor Alumnus
I know this is WIP but I might as well leave my advice here.

First set should probably be this:

Choice Band
########
name: Choice Band
move 1: Wild Charge
move 2: Ice Fang
move 3: Superpower
move 4: Volt Switch / Sleep Talk
ability: Intimidate
item: Choice Band
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
nature: Adamant

Crunch doesn't really seem worth a slash, just a mention in moves. It only really hits bulky Ghosts and Psychics, the relevant ones which are Gourgeist (hits harder than Ice Fang), Misdreavus, Dusknoir, and Duosion. The former three have less usage now that Tauros is gone and the latter never had much usage in the first place. It's still a decent coverage move though, which is why I don't think it should be moved to OO. Sleep Talk might seem weird, especially on a Choiced Pokemon. However, Jumpluff is really common and having a reliable switch-in for it is awesome.

Now for a second set:

Assault Vest
########
name: Assault vest
move 1: Wild Charge
move 2: Ice Fang
move 3: Superpower
move 4: Volt Switch
ability: Guts / Intimidate
item: Assault Vest
evs: 200 HP / 252 Atk / 56 Spe
nature: Adamant

AV Luxray is really cool because it can defeat all relevant Defog users in the tier and take advantage of potential Scald burns to gain an Attack boost, while gaining momentum with Volt Switch. This makes it a really nice Pokemon for VoltTurn teams that need a more reliable switch-in. Intimidate is also good for an 1.5 boost to both defenses, making it a good tank. Simply max Speed Adamant is also a possibility to not have to deal with, but bulk is nice.
 

Anty

let's drop
is a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Team Rater Alumnusis a Community Leader Alumnusis a Community Contributor Alumnusis a Tiering Contributor Alumnusis a Top Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Media Contributor Alumnus
I know this is WIP but I might as well leave my advice here.

First set should probably be this:

Choice Band
########
name: Choice Band
move 1: Wild Charge
move 2: Ice Fang
move 3: Superpower
move 4: Volt Switch / Sleep Talk
ability: Intimidate
item: Choice Band
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
nature: Adamant

Crunch doesn't really seem worth a slash, just a mention in moves. It only really hits bulky Ghosts and Psychics, the relevant ones which are Gourgeist (hits harder than Ice Fang), Misdreavus, Dusknoir, and Duosion. The former three have less usage now that Tauros is gone and the latter never had much usage in the first place. It's still a decent coverage move though, which is why I don't think it should be moved to OO. Sleep Talk might seem weird, especially on a Choiced Pokemon. However, Jumpluff is really common and having a reliable switch-in for it is awesome.

Now for a second set:

Assault Vest
########
name: Assault vest
move 1: Wild Charge
move 2: Ice Fang
move 3: Superpower
move 4: Volt Switch
ability: Guts / Intimidate
item: Assault Vest
evs: 200 HP / 252 Atk / 56 Spe
nature: Adamant

AV Luxray is really cool because it can defeat all relevant Defog users in the tier and take advantage of potential Scald burns to gain an Attack boost, while gaining momentum with Volt Switch. This makes it a really nice Pokemon for VoltTurn teams that need a more reliable switch-in. Intimidate is also good for an 1.5 boost to both defenses, making it a good tank. Simply max Speed Adamant is also a possibility to not have to deal with, but bulk is nice.
I strongly disagree with AV having a set as firstly luxray's main niche is its pure physical power so losing out on that makes it much easier to counter/check (tangela for example, you also cannot even 2hko piloswine with superpower). Another huge thing is that luxray isnt even that good with ass vest, yes it can now take some hits a bit better, but you arent exactly switch in on many special attackers, instead you can just take maybe one hit and then revenge kill, but why would you not use something faster. Electabuzz exists as a bulky electric but has speed unlike luxray, so can revenge kill waters a lot more easily. There are much better switch ins to water type defog-ers, and luxray just gets warn down by rocks/burns/scalds/wild charge/etc

As for the CB set, crunch isnt too important and i can see it losing its slash, but sleep talk doesnt really do much when the main sleep user in the tier is tangela, and sleep talk vs pluff isnt great as you have to risk a 1/3 roll and overall volt switch is just nice for pivoting out of pokes like tangela
 
I know this is WIP but I might as well leave my advice here.

First set should probably be this:

Choice Band
########
name: Choice Band
move 1: Wild Charge
move 2: Ice Fang
move 3: Superpower
move 4: Volt Switch / Sleep Talk
ability: Intimidate
item: Choice Band
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
nature: Adamant

Crunch doesn't really seem worth a slash, just a mention in moves. It only really hits bulky Ghosts and Psychics, the relevant ones which are Gourgeist (hits harder than Ice Fang), Misdreavus, Dusknoir, and Duosion. The former three have less usage now that Tauros is gone and the latter never had much usage in the first place. It's still a decent coverage move though, which is why I don't think it should be moved to OO. Sleep Talk might seem weird, especially on a Choiced Pokemon. However, Jumpluff is really common and having a reliable switch-in for it is awesome.

Now for a second set:

Assault Vest
########
name: Assault vest
move 1: Wild Charge
move 2: Ice Fang
move 3: Superpower
move 4: Volt Switch
ability: Guts / Intimidate
item: Assault Vest
evs: 200 HP / 252 Atk / 56 Spe
nature: Adamant

AV Luxray is really cool because it can defeat all relevant Defog users in the tier and take advantage of potential Scald burns to gain an Attack boost, while gaining momentum with Volt Switch. This makes it a really nice Pokemon for VoltTurn teams that need a more reliable switch-in. Intimidate is also good for an 1.5 boost to both defenses, making it a good tank. Simply max Speed Adamant is also a possibility to not have to deal with, but bulk is nice.
I agree with the AV Luxray set too! Its a evil way to screw up the opponents team XD but for the choice band set, I think crunch is for decent coverage and it has a 20 percent chance to decrease the opponents defense so then you can hit harder but then again the opponet can switch out and reset the stat lowers. Other than that has annyone planed on makeing Luxray a para phazer?
 

Grim

The Ghost
is a Tiering Contributor Alumnusis a Contributor Alumnus
Anty A main set is probably too much yeah, but I think at least a strong mention in OO would be good. As for why you would not just use something faster, most faster Electric-types cannot switch in like Luxray does. To be honest I did completely forget about Electabuzz there though. AV and Sleep Talk are just things I have used with some success.

Kawaii Raichu The thing is, Crunch will not be breaking through anything it does not hit super effectively, a 20% chance to lower defense does not really change that. No comment on paraphazer, never used it nor seen it.
 
Anty A main set is probably too much yeah, but I think at least a strong mention in OO would be good. As for why you would not just use something faster, most faster Electric-types cannot switch in like Luxray does. To be honest I did completely forget about Electabuzz there though. AV and Sleep Talk are just things I have used with some success.

Kawaii Raichu The thing is, Crunch will not be breaking through anything it does not hit super effectively, a 20% chance to lower defense does not really change that. No comment on paraphazer, never used it nor seen it.
Hmm... That is true too, ok I'll take that back but I think luxray might be ok to use roar and spread paralysis on the team and help your team mates spread stealth rocks ect. But it might not since doesn't enough bulk but maybe I can test that out but then again its better to have gavlantula or others to pour stick web every where. I did find a para phazer luxray for some ones team but I think its un viable http://www.pokecommunity.com/archive/index.php/t-268615.html

What about a scarfed Luxray? I think it can be a good revenge killer, running guts and switching in Wow/Toxic and start a sweep too!
 
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honestly i don't think Volt Switch should be slashed with anything, it's just too important to Luxray's role as a bulky pivot to give up.
 

Raiza

is a Forum Moderator Alumnusis a Top Tiering Contributor Alumnusis a Contributor Alumnusis a defending SPL Championis a Past SPL Championis a Past WCoP Championis a Former Old Generation Tournament Circuit Champion
World Defender
Hi some suggestions:

Overview
########

Eelektross isn't PU and is slower than Luxray anyway so remove that mention and add someone else such as Raichu. Also Luxray faces competition from other Electric-types such as Zebstrika not only because it is slower, but for example Zebstrika works as a dedicated Special Attacker and isn't setup fodder for things like Jumpluff thanks to Sap Sipper, Luxray instead is unique thanks to being a Physical Eletric-type Pokemon, which is uncommon, and for Intimidate and Guts, which you already talked about.

Moves
========

Mention that Wild Charge basically hits hard everything that isn't immune to it and it's mainly useful against Pokemon such as Pelipper, Poliwrath which trouble Luxray.
Ice Fang is used to also hit bulky Ground-type Pokemon such as Torterra.
Mention that Volt Switch is really useful in tandem with Intimidate, as it makes Luxray a viable pivot.

Set Details
========

Talk about Intimidate being also useful to ease the job of revengekillers against a dangerous threat, sacrificing Luxray.
And you shouldn't talk about coverage and moves in Set Details, as this section is only restricted to EV spreads, nature selections, and items.

Usage Tips
========

As I already said, Intimidate is useful because it makes Luxray a deathfodder, so in extreme need it can be useful, and can also force switches of physical attackers, so this should be abused as much as possible to open holes into enemy team
''Despite Luxray could revenge kill many Pokemons as Haunter, Raichu, and Rotom-F, it can switch in against them.'' you mean can't right?
Mention that it's better to use Volt Switch against bulkier teams to wear down foes and gain momentum.

Team Options
========

Mention that Luxray isn't really that bulky even with Intimidate, so wish pass is appreciated along with slow volturn or baton pass to heal or bring it on the field safely, preventing it to take unnecessary damage. Mr. Mime is also a good partner thanks to Healing Wish, giving Luxray a second shot.

The Quasar
 

WhiteDMist

Path>Goal
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Overview
########
- Don't need to talk about its attack and special attack, everyone can see it if they scroll up.
- Note that due to its power, Luxray still works as a wallbreaker, despite its below average Speed.
- I still don't feel like I'm learning anything about Luxray from the Overview. Why should I use Luxray on a team?
- Make special note of its role as a pivot as well, where its mediocre Speed and Intimidate actually allows Luxray to perform such a role decently well.

ChoiceBand
########
- It's Choice Band. Add the space please.

Moves
========
- What do you mean restricted for Choice Band's use? You really don't need that point at all imo, you can just say for Volt Switch that due to the great coverage provided by Luxray's other moves, it can easily afford to run Volt Switch as its last move.

Set Details
========
- Er, the point about sacrificing Luxray to get off an Intimidate should be moved to Usage Tips.
- I'm also not sure that the Volt Switch point belongs here, but leave that for now.

Usage Tips
========
- Remove the first point, that isn't really a usage tip. Instead, explain that Luxray should be used to break down walls with its powerful attacks, but not to expect it to sweep with its mediocre Speed.
- Make a note that you should be careful pivoting in against Defiant users, as giving them an Attack boost can be costly.

Team Options
========
- Don't mention hazard users unless you can back it up with what KOes the hazards help bring.

Checks & Counters
########
- These 3 are not the only checks and counters. What about Tangela? I'm sure you can find more checks and counters.
 
just some stuff i thought might help. Some words are misused in the analysis it seems, but honestly that's more of a GP problem imo.

Overview
########
  • Luxray could be useful as wallbraeaker as a good pivoting. Good physical movepool plus Volt Switch gives it an important niche on PU tier.
  • Its modest speed is not sufficient to outspeed opponents and if a different nature from Adamant is used, the drop in power is very meaningful. But Luxray still works as a wallbreaker, despite its below average Speed.
  • Intimidate and Guts are really competitive abilities. In particular, Intimidate is useful to lighten damages from physical attackers, Guts could be activated from an exact game predict to absorb Will-O-Wisp or another non-volatile status.
  • Despite Luxray is more powerful, Raichu and Zebstrika can be used because they are faster. In detail Zebstrika works also as a dedicated Sap Sipper Special Attacker. I don't think mentioning Zebstrika's role is necessary as it's sufficient to mention that Luxray is mostly outclassed as an offensive electric-type by Raichu and Zebstrika
  • Luxray hold its role as a pivot as well, where its mediocre Speed and Intimidate actually allows Luxray to perform such a role decently well.

Choice Band
########
name: Choice Band
move 1: Wild Charge
move 2: Ice Fang
move 3: Superpower
move 4: Volt Switch
ability: Intimidate
item: Choice Band
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
nature: Adamant

Moves
========
  • Wild Charge is the Physical STAB move on this set, despite its recoil. Wild Charge basically hits hard everything that isn't immune to it and it's mainly useful against Pokemon such as Pelipper, Poliwrath
  • Ice Fang provides decent coverage with Wild Charge, hitting common Grass-type opponent and bulky Ground-type Pokemon such as Torterra. Also it has 10% chance of causing the target to flinch and freeze. The flinch/freeze chance isn't really relevant and doesn't help Luxray in dealing with Ground or Grass-types as it 2HKOes most of them anyway
  • Super Power integrates Luxray's Attack, hitting Normal- and Steel-types but also Probopass and Piloswine. I'd probably give emphasis to Pilo as it's a very prominent 'mon that resists BoltBeam coverage and Superpower hits incredibly hard, having a chance to OHKO after Rocks.
  • Wild Charge, Ice Fang and Superpower provide a good coverage, it can easily afford to run Volt Switch as its last move. Volt Switch lets you scout for switches against disadvantageous opponent, giving you momentum, so it's really useful in tandem with Intimidate, as it makes Luxray a viable pivot.
Set Details
========
  • The EVs spread, Adamant nature and Choice Band item maximize Luxray's Attack. Also a Speed investment keeps its Speed at least decent.
  • Intimidate's support reduces the threat of physical attackers and could be used several times during the game. It's also good to sort of muzzle threats like SS Carracosta, SD Leafeon, and SD Jumpluff; while it is by no means counters to these 'mons, it can use Intimidate to weaken them severely; +1 Carracosta is definitely a lot less scary to handle and this is invaluable to a lot of teams that don't run Poliwrath
  • Volt Switch is just too important to Luxray's role as a bulky pivot to give up and it is just nice for pivoting out of Pokemons like Tangela.
Usage Tips
========
  • Luxray should be used to break down walls with its powerful attacks, but not to expect it to sweep with its mediocre Speed.
  • Intimidate is useful to soften up damage from physical attackers; that can be so useful that you can use it to weaken and force switches of physical attackers opponent, even to ease the job of revengekillers against a dangerous threat, sacrificing Luxray itself.
  • Despite Luxray could revenge kill many Pokemons as Haunter, Raichu, and Rotom-F, it can't switch in safely against them.
  • It's better to use Volt Switch against bulkier teams to wear down foes and gain momentum, but be careful pivoting in against Defiant users, as giving them an Attack boost can be costly.
Team Options
========
  • Stealth Rock setters as Propobass and Golem are good teammates, because makes easier its wallbreaker rolle, e.g. against Raichu and Regice. But also spikes setter as Roselia are appreciated for the same reason. rose also takes advantage of Tangela rather easily, and Luxray manages to give Rose free turns to set up spikes on such switches
  • Ground immune as as Jumpluff, Haunter or resistors as Vileplume, bulky Torterra, and Leafeon are also good teammates.
  • Luxray isn't really so bulky with Intimidate, so wish pass is appreciated along with slow volturn or baton pass to heal or bring it on the field safely, preventing it to take unnecessary damage. Mr. Mime is also a good partner thanks to Healing Wish, giving Luxray a second shot. Imo mention setup sweepers such as Ninetales, Leafeon, and Jumpluff in particular; weather sweepers such as RD Poliwrath also appreciate the free turn.

Other Options
########
  • An Assault Vest's set is playable because can defeat all relevant Defog users in the tier and take advantage of potential Scald burns to gain an Attack boost, if you use Guts ability. But there are much better switch ins to water type defog-ers. mention that it takes special attacks (such as Swanna/Pelipper's Scald) better from defoggers and thus is a more reliable switch-in to said defoggers
  • Crunch has a 20 percent chance to decrease the opponents defense. But it's not easy to prefer it over main moves. Crunch isn't really used for its chance to drop Defense, it hits Gourgiest forms significantly harder and gives it a chance to cleanly 2HKO even defensive Missy without taking recoil i guess ?_? but it's a pretty niche option
  • Quick Attack can be used as a form of priority to finish weak opponents. Specific examples are recommended, such as Ninetales at 30% (Life Orb Ninetales gets worn down very easily so it gives you a method of counterplay against it I guess) as well as Jumpluff in a similar HP bracket
  • A Guts set with Toxic Orb and Facade is always playable, searching on game a free turn to activate its Status Orb. You should probably mention why the CB set is better (it gives it the utility of a pivot as well as better power right off the bat, without requiring to take residual damage from poison/burn)
  • A Jolly nature gives Luxray more speed. But so it can't hit with enough power, too. Specific threats that it outspeeds?

Checks & Counters
########

**Ground-types**: support Stunkfisk could resist against Luxray attack and can hit it with Earth Power, Marowak KOs Luxray with Bonemerang. Honestly I'd add Piloswine to Ground-types as it doesn't really fit as an "offensive check" in the true sense of the word: it's bulky, used for SR, and a good gluemon to check various random threats. It takes ~85% from Superpower, though, so definitely would stress on it not being a counter.

**Tangela**: Tangela (both offensive and defensive set) can tank many hits without problems and then hits Luxray with Giga Drain and (for offensive set) KOs it with Leaf Storm. Even if Tangela has taken a lot of residual damage and is 2HKOed by Ice Fang on the switch, it can pivot out to a resist and regenerate its health back with Regenerator; might want to mention that.

**Faster Pokemon**: Luxray is too slow, despite his power it's always outspeed.

**Electric-types**: Zebstrika and Raichu ara faster and match up well against Luxray with Overheat and Focus Blast. Superpower cleanly OHKOes both so might want to mention Lightningrod variants switching in on Volt Switch or Wild Charge.

**Offensive Checkers**: Against Life Orb Ninetales, Haunter, Piloswine, Torterra, Gourgeist-XL, Rotom-F, Luxray is unable to switch in safely or with few damages. This is the other way around imo, as you're looking for Pokemon that can force Luxray out. Said Pokemon can OHKO or 2HKO Luxray, thus making them good offensive checks that force Luxray out.

**Status**: Without Guts ability, Will-O-Wisp halves Luxray's Attack, rendering it less effective, Toxic puts a timer on Luxray's longevity too. might want to mention that this is a non-issue for guts variants

pretty cool analysis, just feel that you should go a bit more in-depth with how to use Luxray and explain what relevant threats it pairs up well with/struggles with. Providing examples is always good to further your case. Also i'm not qc so feel free to disregard whatever you disagree with
 

WhiteDMist

Path>Goal
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Overview
########
- Note that Luxray fits best on offensive and balanced teams, acting as a offensive pivot.

Set Details
========
- I would implement Kingler's addition to Intimidate here, the information is very useful.

Team Options
========
- Note that Rocks are required to OHKO CB Flareon as well. I'm less inclined about Spikes, what KOs do Spikes gain alongside rocks?
- Wish support isn't very common on balanced teams.
- The whole point of being a pivot is that you are the one switching in and providing free switches to your teammates. It's redundant to have a pivot for a pivot.
- Why Mr. Mime? Is it a particularly important teammate for Luxray in particular? Healing Wish doesn't count unless Luxray is a particularly important target for that move.

Other Options
########
- Don't mention pointless stuff like Crunch's defense drop.
- I'm fine with Quick Attack getting a mention, though at least note the examples Kingler gave you.

Checks & Counters
########
- Eh, bulky Grass-types in general are pretty good checks and counters to Luxray. Tangela is just particularly notable.
- **Faster Pokemon**: by what? Examples.

I agree with all of Kingler's amcehck, so implement both. More examples and details wouldn't hurt either.

You have the basics down, so I'll let the next QC check look at how in-depth you make this. For now,


qc approved
1/3
 

Raiza

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World Defender
Overview
########
Mention that Intimidate and Guts are also niches that make Luxray a valid option over other Electric-types.
What important Pokemon Luxray can't outspeed?
Mention reasons when you say it is outclassed.

Choice Band
########
Set Details
========
What important Pokemon Adamant nature allows Luxray to KO?

Usage Tips
========
When you talk about the fact that Luxray can't safely switch in on strong attackers, mention slow VoltTurn.
Mention that Luxray, especially when running Intimidate, should be brought in on weak attackers and Pokemon it forces the switch out, therefore gain momentum with Volt Switch or directly go for a stronger move to damage the switch.

Team Options
========
Mention Toxic Spikes too, they're nice to have at times, especially against bulky Ground-types.
Mention slow VoltTurn.
Why Pokemon with Ground immunities are good teammates?
Mention that setup sweepers also appreciate the wallbreaking by Luxray
Mention Thunder Wave support.

Checks & Counters
########

**Electric-types**: Add more content, aim for at least two lines.

**Status**: Mention Will-O-Wisp and Toxic users.


The Quasar tag me when you done, ill come back and stamp
 
Last edited:

Raiza

is a Forum Moderator Alumnusis a Top Tiering Contributor Alumnusis a Contributor Alumnusis a defending SPL Championis a Past SPL Championis a Past WCoP Championis a Former Old Generation Tournament Circuit Champion
World Defender
You still have to mention Pokemon that Luxray can't afford to outspeed, while other Electric-types do, Kingler is not that common and relevant, so you might find others, and also add more detail.
In UT You didn't mention slow VoltTurn to safely switch into strong attackers, especially specially based ones, mention it.
In TO Mention Toxic Spikes too, they're nice to have at times, especially against bulky Ground-types.
In TO add more content when you talk about slow VoltTurn, for example Luxray also fits well in voltturn cores because it appreciates to get brought into field with safety, but there are other things to say and that you can add.
Mention a Choice Scarf set to OO.

do this and
QC 2/3

 

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