Mesprit


[OVERVIEW]

Mesprit is NU's most versatile Pokemon thanks to its large movepool and balanced stats all-around that give it good bulk and attacking prowess, allowing it to run a variety of sets. Mesprit also has access to very good support moves in Stealth Rock and the coveted Healing Wish, which allows it to bring a weakened teammate back to full health, giving it another chance to break through the opposing team. Its Psychic typing plus Levitate gives Mesprit useful resistances to Fighting- and Ground-type attacks, giving it many opportunities to switch in. However, the same typing also leaves it vulnerable to Pursuit trappers, most notably Skuntank, which can switch in on almost all of Mesprit's attacks, causing it to be a liability at times. Choice Scarf sets are also easily revenge killed by Sucker Punch users such as Shiftry and Skuntank. Mesprit also has mediocre Speed for an offensive Pokemon, which in some cases leaves it outsped by Pokemon it's supposed to check, such as Sawk. While Mesprit does have a wide movepool, it tends to struggle fitting all of the moves it wants on one set.

[SET]
name: Offensive Stealth Rock
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Psychic
move 3: Ice Beam / Signal Beam / Hidden Power Ground
move 4: Healing Wish / Energy Ball
item: Colbur Berry
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Stealth Rock supports Mesprit's teammates, and it makes for a good user of the move due to Levitate giving it a good matchup against Rhydon. Psychic is a reliable STAB move that hits targets such as Gurdurr and Garbodor very hard. Ice Beam most notably hits Xatu, which will attempt to bounce back Stealth Rock, as well as hitting Torterra, Shiftry, Scyther, and Rhydon. Signal Beam primarily hits Malamar, as well as Musharna, Shiftry, and opposing Mesprit. Hidden Power Ground is an alternative mainly for Skuntank, but it hits Mawile, Pawniard, and Klinklang as well. Healing Wish brings an ally back to full HP and cures any status ailments. Energy Ball scores the OHKO on Rhydon and Quagsire and does good damage to both Lanturn and Prinplup. Psyshock is an alternative to Psychic to hit Cryogonal, Assault Vest Hariyama, and Magmortar harder. Thunderbolt is also an option for hitting bulky Water-types such as Prinplup, Pelipper, and Mantine, as well as retaining coverage on Xatu. U-turn is an option over Healing Wish to keep up offensive momentum and potentially let a teammate safely switch in. Hidden Power Fire lets Mesprit mainly hit Ferroseed while also getting damage on other Steel-types.

Set Details
========

Maximum Speed EVs plus a Timid nature ensure Mesprit outspeeds as many Pokemon as possible, including Adamant Sawk, and Speed ties with other positive-natured base 80 Speed Pokemon, while maximum Special Attack EVs let it hit as hard as possible. Colbur Berry allows Mesprit to act as a more reliable Fighting-type check as well as avoid being trapped by Pursuit one time, while Life Orb is an alternative for higher damage output, most notably getting a guaranteed OHKO on Malamar with Signal Beam and 2HKOing Skuntank after Stealth Rock with Hidden Power Ground. Levitate is Mesprit's only ability, but it is very useful for providing an immunity to Ground-type moves and all entry hazards bar Stealth Rock. A spread of 92 HP / 252 SpA / 164 Spe with a Timid nature gives Mesprit a little more bulk while still letting it outspeed neutral-natured base 80 Speed Pokemon, while a spread of 56 HP / 252 SpA / 200 Spe with a Timid nature lets it outspeed Adamant Sawk.

Usage Tips
========

This set generally makes for a good lead thanks to its favorable matchup against most Stealth Rock users. If Xatu is on the opposing team, avoid the use of Stealth Rock and instead use Ice Beam or, if not running the move, make a double switch to a Pokemon that threatens it, such as Skuntank or Liepard. If Mesprit is not running Colbur Berry, be cautious when switching into Gurdurr or Sawk, as both deal heavy damage with Knock Off. Try to play carefully with Mesprit when a Pursuit user is on the opposing side, as keeping Mesprit around may be crucial if it is the team's only way to check Fighting-types. Healing Wish should only be used in situations where a teammate needs to stay healthy in order to check a specific threat or if a sweeper has been heavily weakened or crippled by status.

Team Options
========

Setup sweepers such as Swords Dance Samurott, Swords Dance Shiftry, and Rock Polish Rhydon are excellent partners, as all three of them appreciate Stealth Rock support and can be played more recklessly thanks to Healing Wish support. Rhydon in particular pairs well with Mesprit, as it threatens Skuntank and uses it as setup bait, while Mesprit checks Fighting-types including Sawk, Gurdurr, and Poliwrath, all of which can halt Rhydon's attempt to sweep. Dark-types such as Liepard and Skuntank are an issue for Mesprit, especially when it's not using a Colbur Berry, as both are able to Pursuit trap Mesprit; therefore, Sawk and Gurdurr make for excellent partners, as they threaten both of them greatly, while Mesprit's Stealth Rock support discourages one of their best offensive checks in Scyther from switching in. Skuntank also works well for its ability to Pursuit trap Xatu as well as Ghost-types that threaten Mesprit, while in return, Mesprit covers Skuntank's lone weakness to Ground and is able to threaten Fighting-types that give Skuntank issues.

[SET]
name: Life Orb + 3 Attacks
move 1: Psychic / Psyshock
move 2: Signal Beam / Ice Beam
move 3: Hidden Power Ground / Energy Ball
move 4: Healing Wish / Calm Mind
item: Life Orb
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid / Modest
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Psychic is Mesprit's most powerful and reliable STAB move, dealing high amounts of damage to Gurdurr and Garbodor. Psyshock is an alternative to hit Cryogonal, Assault Vest Hariyama, and Magmortar harder. Signal Beam has good coverage with Mesprit's Psychic STAB type, hitting targets such as Shiftry, Liepard, Malamar, Exeggutor, and Musharna. Hidden Power Ground hits Skuntank, Pawniard, Klinklang, and Mawile, which otherwise take Mesprit's attacks very well. Ice Beam hits Xatu, Scyther, and Torterra, while still covering Shiftry and Exeggutor. Energy Ball is an alternative to nail Rhydon, Quagsire, Samurott, Prinplup, and Lanturn. Healing Wish allows Mesprit to bring back a heavily damaged teammate. Calm Mind is an option over Healing Wish to make Mesprit hit very hard after a boost, allowing it to act a bulky wincon. Thunderbolt hits Water-types neutral to Grass such as Mantine and Pelipper, as well as retaining coverage against Xatu and Scyther. Hidden Power Fire is also an option to mainly hit Ferroseed harder while retaining coverage against Klinklang and Mawile.

Set Details
========

Maximum Speed EVs allow Mesprit to outspeed as many Pokemon as possible, while maximum Special Attack EVs allow it to hit as hard as possible. A Timid nature is generally the better option, as it allows Mesprit to outspeed Adamant Sawk, as well as Speed tie with opposing positive-natured base 80 Speed Pokemon such as Shiftry and Kabutops, but Modest can still be chosen for more power. Life Orb is chosen for the good boost in damage output and allows Mesprit to switch between its moves, which lets it get the most mileage out of its great coverage. Colbur Berry in conjunction with Calm Mind is another option to ensure that Mesprit's sweep is not ended prematurely against a Dark-type. Another variant of this set involving four attacks is also an option if Healing Wish support is not desired, making Mesprit much harder for the opponent safely switch a Pokemon into.

Usage Tips
========

Use powerful Life Orb-boosted attacks early- and mid-game to break down the opponent's bulkier Pokemon. If the opponent has a Pursuit user, use the appropriate coverage move to catch them on the switch. Don't switch in Mesprit haphazardly; rather, bring it in with a slow U-turn or Volt Switch or after a Pokemon has fainted, as Mesprit already gets worn down by Life Orb recoil. Healing Wish should be used when it is absolutely crucial to keep a teammate healthy against a threatening Pokemon on the opposing side or when a sweeper has been significantly weakened. Calm Mind is generally best used against balanced teams where Mesprit needs a bit more power to break through bulkier Pokemon; against offense, it is far more beneficial to attack.

Team Options
========

Sawk and Gurdurr are excellent partners for Mesprit, as both are able to check Dark-types very well, while Mesprit takes down Garbodor and Weezing. Healing Wish support with Sawk in particular can be a deadly combination, as Mesprit can make Sawk's Sturdy active once again upon bringing it back to full health. Combusken is also a decent partner due to its ability to check Dark-types such as Shiftry, Pawniard, and Liepard, but most notably, it is able to pass Speed boosts to Mesprit, making it outspeed many offensive Pokemon. Swords Dance Mawile is a great partner, as it switches into Scyther and uses it as setup bait, while Mesprit breaks down Garbodor and Weezing and can replenish Mawile's HP and rid it of any status ailments with Healing Wish. Other setup sweepers such as Shiftry, Samurott, Lilligant, and Klinklang also greatly benefit from Healing Wish, and all of them appreciate Mesprit's early- and mid-game wallbreaking capabilities, making it easier for them to clean late-game. Mesprit tends to have issues breaking through Mega Audino and Musharna, so Skuntank and Haunter are good partners for their ability to threaten both with their respective STAB moves and prevent them from setting up or healing with Taunt. Skuntank is also able to Pursuit trap other Psychic-types, as well as eliminate faster Ghost-types, including Haunter, Rotom, and Mismagius.

[SET]
name: Physically Defensive
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Psychic
move 3: U-turn
move 4: Thunder Wave / Healing Wish
item: Leftovers / Colbur Berry
ability: Levitate
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 240 Def / 16 Spe

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

Stealth Rock supports Mesprit's teammates, and Mesprit makes for a decent user of the move due to its ability to set it up against Pokemon it walls. Psychic lets Mesprit deal consistent damage, nailing Fighting- and Poison-types in particular. U-turn lets Mesprit keep up offensive momentum, allowing it to bring in teammates safely. Thunder Wave lets Mesprit cripple fast offensive Pokemon, giving slower teammates the advantage. Healing Wish is an alternative that allows Mesprit to bring a sweeper back to full HP and rid it of status.

Set Details
========

Maximum HP EVs in tandem with 240 Defense EVs and a Bold nature allow Mesprit to take on physical attackers with ease. The remaining EVs go into Speed to let Mesprit outspeed Adamant Mawile and below. Leftovers gives Mesprit passive recovery, allowing it to last a little longer. Colbur Berry is another option to let Mesprit more reliably check Fighting-types while also letting it avoid being Pursuit trapped one time.

Usage Tips
========

Due to its heavy Defense investment, you can use Mesprit as a pivot into physical attackers. Try to set up Stealth Rock as soon as possible, and use it against a Pokemon that cannot do much in return. If Xatu is on the opposing team, anticipate its switch in by using U-turn to maintain offensive momentum and let a teammate take care of it. Thunder Wave is a good move to use against fast offensive Pokemon, aiding slower teammates to run through the opponent's team. Only attack with Psychic when Mesprit absolutely needs to to get damage on Pokemon such as Gurdurr and Garbodor. Healing Wish should generally be used when a vital teammate or setup sweeper has been significantly weakened. It, however, shouldn't be used when there are Pokemon on the opposing team that Mesprit needs to check. If Mesprit is not holding a Colbur Berry, be wary of Pursuit trappers such as Skuntank and Liepard, and be more cautious when switching into Fighting-types, as Mesprit is vulnerable to Knock Off.

Team Options
========

Mesprit pairs incredibly well with setup sweepers such as Mawile, Klinklang, Samurott, and Shiftry due to its ability to bring them in safely with U-turn, give them a second shot at sweeping with Healing Wish, and provide them with Thunder Wave support. Mesprit also switches into Fighting-types such as Sawk and Gurdurr, which Klinklang and Shiftry greatly benefit from. Wallbreakers such as Sawk and Aurorus pair well with this set, as Mesprit can slow down faster Pokemon with Thunder Wave, bring both of them in safely with a slow U-turn, and restore Sawk's Sturdy with Healing Wish. Other U-turn and Volt Switch users such as Scyther, Zebstrika, and Lanturn are good teammates for Mesprit, as together they maintain offensive momentum while the opposing team gets worn down by repeatedly switching into Stealth Rock. More defensive partners such as Mega Audino can keep Mesprit healthy with Wish while also curing any status ailment with Heal Bell, while Mesprit is able to take on problematic Pokemon such as Garbodor. Miltank is also a decent partner, as it appreciates Mesprit's ability to switch into Fighting-types.

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Psychic
move 2: Ice Beam / Signal Beam
move 3: U-turn
move 4: Healing Wish
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Levitate
nature: Modest / Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Psychic is Mesprit's most powerful and reliable STAB move and doubles as a decent late-game cleaning tool. Ice Beam is very useful for Mesprit to revenge kill Pokemon such as Archeops, Scyther, and Swellow, as well as hitting Xatu, Torterra, and Rhydon. Signal Beam is an alternative to hit Malamar, Musharna, Jynx, Shiftry, and opposing Mesprit. U-turn is great for retaining offensive momentum, notably letting Mesprit switch out safely on expected switches to a Pursuit user. Healing Wish brings a teammate back to full HP and cures it of status, at the cost of sacrificing Mesprit. Thunderbolt is another option to hit Water-types such as Floatzel, Prinplup, Mantine, and Pelipper, in addition to already hitting Archeops, Scyther, Swellow, and Xatu. Psyshock can be used over Psychic to hit targets such as Cryogonal, Assault Vest Magmortar, and Hariyama much harder. Trick is another option over Healing Wish to cripple a wall, but the utility of Healing Wish makes this inferior most of the time.

Set Details
========

Maximum Special Attack EVs allow Mesprit to hit as hard as possible, while maximum Speed EVs ensure it outspeeds as many Pokemon possible. A Modest nature is generally preferred for more attacking power, but Timid is another option to outspeed Jolly Rock Polish Rhydon and Adamant Choice Scarf Sawk. Choice Scarf boosts Mesprit's Speed significantly, allowing it to outspeed and revenge kill a good majority of the unboosted metagame. Levitate gives Mesprit a Ground immunity, which can allow it to switch in unscathed and makes it less prone to being worn down by entry hazards.

Usage Tips
========

Mesprit should almost always be brought in after a Pokemon has fainted or with a slow U-turn or Volt Switch. Mesprit should also take advantage of Levitate and its typing to pivot into Ground-, Fighting-, and Psychic-type attacks. Early-game, when answers to Mesprit are still around, use U-turn to switch out on their expected switch in to retain offensive momentum. Try to prioritize keeping Mesprit healthy for a Pokemon that it is able to revenge kill. Once Mesprit's checks and counters are weakened, clean up late-game with the appropriate move. Healing Wish should generally be used if an important teammate or setup sweeper has been significantly weakened.

Team Options
========

This set fits well on teams that need a fast Psychic-type to revenge kill faster Fighting-types such as Sawk and Primeape while also keeping up offensive momentum, so partners such as Archeops and Klinklang pair well with it. Both also appreciate Healing Wish support, as it can bring the former out of Defeatist range and gives the latter a second shot at sweeping the opposing team. Sawk is the best partner for Mesprit, as it threatens Dark- and Steel-type Pokemon that resist Mesprit's STAB moves, making it easier for it to clean late-game; weakens the opposing team thanks to its great wallbreaking potential; and, combined with Healing Wish support, can take full advantage of Sturdy. Skuntank is also a good partner due to its ability to threaten both Musharna and Mega Audino, both of which are bulky enough to take repeated hits easily from Mesprit. Entry hazard support is very beneficial for Mesprit, as it allows Mesprit to clean late-game with much more ease. Garbodor is an excellent partner, as it sets up hazards against several of Mesprit's answers such as Scyther and Mega Audino. Setup sweepers including Samurott, Shiftry, and Lilligant pair incredibly well with Mesprit, because all of them appreciate Healing Wish support. Swords Dance Mawile in particular is a great partner, as it switches into Scyther and Skuntank easily, while Mesprit takes care of problematic Pokemon such as Garbodor and Weezing and can give Mawile a second chance at sweeping with Healing Wish.

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

Choice Specs with Trick could also work, but generally Life Orb is the better item, as Mesprit takes full advantage of its coverage by being able to switch between its moves. Due to Mesprit's surprisingly good physical movepool, it can also run a Choice Band set consisting of Zen Headbutt / Knock Off / Fire Punch / U-turn. Physical Choice Scarf can also be used, but it's more prone to being walled by physical walls and has worse coverage. Future Sight is another option to pressure Fighting- and Poison-type Pokemon while Mesprit is not on the field. Power-Up Punch can also be used on non-Choiced physical sets to boost Mesprit's Attack while letting it switch between its coverage moves. Magic Coat can be used to reflect back opposing entry hazards and prevent Taunt from leads such as Stealth Rock Archeops. A dual screens set can also be used, but generally Meowstic is better in this role thanks to Prankster. Sunny Day or Rain Dance can be used on the defensive set if a bulky weather starter that can provide pivot support is needed.

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

**Dark-types**: Pawniard, Skuntank, Shiftry, and Liepard are all good answers to Mesprit, as the former two are able to switch on any move Mesprit has to offer with the exception of Hidden Power Ground, while all of them are capable of revenge killing Mesprit, no matter how fast it is, with Sucker Punch. Skuntank is also able to Pursuit trap Mesprit locked into Psychic.; the same goes for Liepard, which can additionally Encore Mesprit into an unfavorable move and set up Nasty Plot or cripple Choice Scarf variants greatly with Thunder Wave.

**Bug-types**: Scyther outspeeds all non-Choice Scarf Mesprit, threatens it with STAB U-turn, and, with Eviolite, can even use Mesprit as setup bait if it doesn't have Ice Beam or Thunderbolt. Scyther, however, doesn't appreciate being crippled by Thunder Wave. Pinsir naturally outspeeds Mesprit and hits it with STAB X-Scissor, dealing heavy damage.

**Steel-types**: Klinklang is able to switch into most of Mesprit's attacks bar Hidden Power Ground and can use Mesprit to set up Shift Gear freely. Bulkier Steel-types such as Ferroseed, Metang, and Probopass are generally able to take any move Mesprit has and use it to set up Spikes or Stealth Rock or cripple it with Thunder Wave.

**Ghost-types**: Haunter, Mismagius, and Rotom naturally outspeed Mesprit and threaten it with Shadow Ball, though none of these Pokemon can safely switch in. Mismagius also commonly carries Taunt, which prevents Mesprit from setting up Stealth Rock or attempting to heal a teammate with Healing Wish.

**Bulky Pokemon**: Musharna and Mega Audino are capable of taking almost any hit from Mesprit and, as a result, can use Mesprit to set up Calm Mind with ease. However, Musharna does not appreciate taking Life Orb Mesprit's Calm Mind-boosted Signal Beam. Xatu is able to take most moves from Mesprit with the exception of Ice Beam, prevent Stealth Rock from going up with Magic Bounce, and hit Mesprit with Signal Beam. Malamar is bulky enough to use non-Signal Beam Mesprit to boost with Superpower and can threaten it with STAB Knock Off.
 
Last edited:

Blast

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Thoughts on a defensive set? It's been getting decent usage since Uxie moved up and should at least be OO, though I wouldn't be opposed to a full set.

Content looks fine from skimming over, but I'm not really sure on Healing Wish being the only slash in slot 4. It mostly comes down to your team's needs but I've used SR + 3 attacks on a lot of teams because maximum coverage is quite nice especially if you're running LO.
 
I wouldn't be opposed to making it a full set either, but for now I left it in OO until I hear what others have to say.
 

boltsandbombers

i'm sorry mr. man
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Yes to a defensive set from me, I've used it a little bit and seen it used a bunch, its actually quite bulky when fully invested. A few calcs:
252+ Atk Life Orb Shiftry Knock Off (97.5 BP) vs. 252 HP / 240+ Def Mesprit: 265-315 (72.8 - 86.5%) [not switching in but you can chew a fit from close to full and kill with U-turn]
252 Atk Life Orb Sheer Force Tauros Rock Climb vs. 252 HP / 240+ Def Mesprit: 146-173 (40.1 - 47.5%)

Certainly not a direct replacement to Uxie but it does the job. Its not the most reliable check to these things so I could see reasonable arguments against it getting a set.

I agree with Blast on slashing a coverage move after Healing Wish on Stealth Rock.
 
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Ares

Fool me...can't get fooled again
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Why does this thing always need a revamp >.> god its a pain in the ass

Tbh I think you can p much copy the overview from past analyses and update it accordingly to the current meta as the things that change are mainly the sets / set order / usage tips. I would say the one thing you should update in the overview is that it no longer faces comeptition from uxie, or not so much say that as it is the only Pokemon that can utilize those moves that is also fast i.e. cm set and defensive.

So yah snag the previous overview as yours is quite small atm and update it accordingly. I'll try to wade through all this info at some point in the next week, might do it a set at a time after you update the overview.
 

Blast

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[OVERVIEW]
  • One of NU's most versatile Pokemon thanks a large movepool, allowing it to run a variety of sets
  • Good stats all around, giving it decent bulk and good attacking prowess
  • Great support moves in Stealth Rock and the rare Healing Wish
  • Psychic typing doesn't offer much in terms of synergy and leaves it vulnerable to Pursuit trappers such as Skuntank and Liepard It still offers some solid Fighting / Ground resistances which is especially good on a SRer
  • Mediocre speed for an offensive Pokemon I'd mention specifically it's slower than Sawk which sucks for a fighting resist
  • Slight 4MSS, especially on its Stealth Rock set
[SET]
name: Stealth Rock rename this to "offensive sr" because of the def. set
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Psychic
move 3: Ice Beam / Signal Beam / Hidden Power Ground
move 4: Healing Wish / Hidden Power Ground
item: Colbur Berry / Life Orb
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
  • Stealth Rock supports Mesprit's teammates and makes for good user of the move Explain why
  • Psychic is a reliable STAB that hits targets such as Gurdurr very hard
  • Ice Beam most notably hits Xatu, which will attempt to bounce back Stealth Rock, as well as hitting Torterra, Shiftry, Scyther, and Rhydon
  • Signal Beam hits Malamar, Musharna, and opposing Mesprit
  • Hidden Power Ground is an alternative mainly for Skuntank, but it also hits Mawile, Pawniard, and Klinklang as well
  • Healing Wish is great utility move that brings an ally back to full and HP and cures any status ailments
  • Psyshock is an alternative to hit Cryogonal, Assault Vest Hariyama, and Magmortar
  • Thunderbolt is also an option for hitting bulky Water-types such as Prinplup, Pelipper, and Mantine, as well as retaining coverage on Xatu
  • Energy Ball scores the OHKO on Rhydon and Quagsire, and does good damage to both Lanturn and Prinplup
  • U-turn is an option over Healing Wish to keep up offensive momentum and potentially let teammate safely switch in
Add a bullet for HP Fire

Set Details
========
  • Maximum Speed EVs plus a Timid nature, ensure Mesprit outspeeds as many Pokemon as possible give specifics
  • Maximum Special Attack EVs let it hit harder
  • Colbur Berry allows Mesprit to act as a more reliable Fighting-type check as well as avoid being trapped by Pursuit one time, while Life Orb is an alternative for higher damage output, most notably getting a guaranteed OHKO on Malamar with Signal Beam and 2HKOing Skunktank after Stealth Rock with Hidden Power Ground
  • Levitate is Mesprit's only ability, but is very useful for its immunity to Ground-type moves as well as its immunity to all hazards bar Stealth Rock
  • A spread of 92 HP / 252 SpA / 164 Spe with a Timid nature gives Mesprit a little more bulk, while still outspeeding neutral base 80 Speed Pokemon I'd mention 56 hp / 252 spa / 200 spe timid too for sawk
  • Mesprit can also drop Healing Wish for a second coverage move, making it less likely to be walled by certain Pokemon and should generally be run along with Life Orb
Usage Tips
========
  • This set generally makes a good lead, thanks to its favorable matchup against most Stealth Rock users
  • If Xatu is on the opposing team, avoid the use of Stealth Rock and instead use Ice Beam or if not running the move, make a double switch to Pokemon that threaten it such as Skuntank or Liepard
  • If Mesprit is not running Colbur berry, be cautious when switching into Gurdurr or Sawk, as both deal heavy damage with Knock Off
  • Try to play carefully with Mesprit when a Pursuit user is on the opposing side, as keeping Mesprit may be crucial if it is the only way to check Fighting-types
  • Healing Wish should only be used in situations where a teammate needs to stay healthy in order to check a specific threat or if a sweeper has been heavily weakened and/or crippled by status
Team Options
========
  • Setup sweepers such as Swords Dance Samurott, Shiftry, and Rock Polish Rhydon are excellent partners, as both of them appreciate Stealth Rock support and can be played more recklessly thanks to Healing Wish support. Rhydon in particular pairs well, as it threatens and uses Skuntank as setup bait, while Mesprit checks Fighting-types including Sawk, Gurdurr, and Poliwrath, all of which can halt Rhydon's attempt in sweeping.
  • Dark-types such as Liepard and Skuntank are an issue for Mesprit, especially when its not using a Colbur Berry, as both are able to Pursuit trap Mesprit, so Sawk and Gurdurr make excellent partners, as it threatens both of them greatly, while Stealth Rock support discourages one of their best offensive checks in Scyther from switching in, as well as general support.
  • Garbodor is good partner to form a hazard stacking core, wearing down the opponent very fast between Stealth Rock and Spikes, while also switching into Scyther and wearing it down with Rocky Helmet plus Aftermath damage. It is highly advised that a reliable answer to Xatu is paired with both, as Xatu bounces back both of their hazards and doesn't fear much from either, so Pokemon such as Rotom and Haunter form an excellent core, and have the added bonus of blocking Rapid Spin.
  • Skuntank also works well for its ability to Pursuit trap Xatu, as well as Ghost-types that threaten Mesprit, while in return, Mesprit covers Skuntank's lone weakness to Ground and is able to threaten Fighting-types that give Skuntank issues.
[SET]
name: Life Orb + 3 Attacks
move 1: Psychic / Psyshock
move 2: Signal Beam
move 3: Hidden Power Ground / Energy Ball
move 4: Healing Wish / Calm Mind
item: Life Orb
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid / Modest
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
  • Psychic is Mesprit's most powerful and reliable STAB
  • Psyshock is an alternative to hit Cryognal, Assault Vest Hariyama, and Magmortar harder
  • Signal Beam has good coverage with Mesprit's Psychic STAB, hitting targets such as Shiftry, Liepard, Malamar, Exeggutor, and Musharna
  • Hidden Power Ground hits Skuntank, Pawniard, Klinklang, and Mawile, which otherwise take Mesprit's attacks very well
  • Energy Ball is an alternative to nail Rhydon, Quagsire, Samurott, Prinplup, and Lanturn
  • Healing Wish is great utility move that allows Mesprit to bring back a heavily damaged teammate
  • Calm Mind is another option over Healing Wish to make Mesprit hit very hard after a boost
  • Ice Beam is another option to hit Xatu, Scyther, and Torterra
  • Thunderbolt hits Water-types neutral to Grass such as Mantine and Pelipper, as well as retaining coverage against Xatu and Scyther
HP Fire bullet here too

Set Details
========
  • Maximum Speed EVs allows Mesprit to outspeed as many Pokemon as possible, while maximum Special Attack EVs allows to hit as hard as possible
  • Timid is generally the better option, as it allows Mesprit to outspeed Adamant Sawk, as well as speed tie with opposing postive base 80 Speed Pokemon including Shiftry and Kabutops, but Modest can still be chosen for more power
  • Life Orb is chosen for the good boost in damage output and allows Mesprit to switch between its moves, which tends to be crucial for a Pokemon with great coverage
  • Colbur Berry in conjunction with Calm Mind is another option to ensure that Mesprit's sweep is not ended prematurely against a Dark-type
  • Another variant of this set involving four attacks is also an option if Healing Wish support is not desired, and makes Mesprit much harder for the opponent to safely switch into
Usage Tips
========
  • Use powerful Life Orb-boosted attacks early- to mid-game to break down the foe's bulkier Pokemon
  • If the opponent has Pursuit user, use the appropriate coverage move to catch them on the switch
  • Don't switch in Mesprit haphazardly, rather, bring it in with a slow U-turn and Volt Switch or after a Pokemon has fainted, as Mesprit already gets worn down by Life Orb recoil
  • Healing Wish should be used when it is absolutely crucial to keep a teammate healthy against a threatening Pokemon on the opposing side or when a sweeper has been significantly weakened
  • Calm Mind is generally best used against balance teams where Mesprit needs a bit more power to break through bulkier Pokemon; against offense, it is far more beneficial to attack
Team Options
========
  • Sawk and Gurdurr make excellent partners for Mesprit, as both are able to check Dark-types very well, while Mesprit takes down Garbodor and Weezing. Healing Wish support with Sawk in particular can be a deadly combination, as Mesprit brings Sawk back to full, making Sturdy active once again.
  • Combusken is also a decent partner due to its ability to check Dark-types such as Shiftry, Pawniard, and Liepard, but most notably, it is able to pass Speed boosts to Mesprit, making it outspeed many offensive Pokemon.
  • Swords Dance Mawile is a great partner, as it switches into Scyther and uses it as set up bait, while Mesprit breaks down Garbodor and Weezing, as well as replenish HP and rid Mawile of any status ailments with Healing Wish.
  • Other setup sweepers such as Shiftry, Samurott, Lilligant, and Klinklang also greatly benefit from Healing Wish and all of them appreciate Mesprit's early- to mid-game wall breaking capabilities, making it easier to clean late-game.
  • Mesprit tends to have issues breaking through Mega Audino and Musharna so Skuntank and Haunter make good partners for their ability to threaten both with their respective STAB moves, and prevent them from setting up or healing HP with Taunt. Skuntank is also able to Pursuit trap other Psychic-types, as well as eliminate faster Ghost-types, including Haunter, Rotom, and Mismagius.
[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Psychic
move 2: Ice Beam / Signal Beam
move 3: U-turn
move 4: Healing Wish
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Levitate
nature: Modest / Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
  • Psychic is Mesprit's most powerful and reliable STAB and doubles as a decent late-game cleaning tool
  • Ice Beam is very useful for Mesprit to revenge kill faster Pokemon such as Archeops, Scyther, and Swellow, as well as hitting Xatu, Torterra, Rhydon
  • Signal Beam is an alternative to hit Malamar, Musharna, Jynx, and opposing Mesprit
  • U-turn is great for retaining offensive momentum, and lets Mesprit switch out safely on expected switch ins to a Pursuit user
  • Healing Wish is a great support move that brings a teammate back to full HP and cures and status, at the cost of sacrificing Mesprit
  • Thunderbolt is another option to hit Water-types such as Floatzel, Prinplup, Mantine, and Pelipper, in addition to already hitting Archeops, Scyther, Swellow, and Xatu
  • Psyshock can be used over Psychic to hit targets such as Cryogonal, Assault Vest Magmortar, and Hariyama much harder
  • Trick is another option over Healing Wish to cripple a wall, but the utility of Healing Wish makes this inferior most of the time
Set Details
========
  • Maximum Special Attack EVs allow Mesprit to hit as hard as possible, while maximum Speed EVs ensure it outspeeds as many Pokemon possible
  • Modest is generally preferred for more attack power, but Timid nature is another option to outspeed Jolly Rock Polish Rhydon and Adamant Choice Scarf Sawk
  • Choice Scarf boosts Mesprit's Speed significantly, allowing to outspeed and revenge kill a good majority of the unboosted metagame
  • Levitate gives Mesprit a Ground immunity, which can allow it to switch in unscathed and makes it less prone to being worn down by hazards
Usage Tips
========
  • Mesprit should almost always be brought in after a Pokemon has fainted or with a slow U-turn/Volt Switch
  • Mesprit should also abuse Levitate and its typing to pivot into Ground-, Fighting-, and Psychic-type attacks
  • Early-game, when answers to Mesprit are still around, use U-turn to switch out on their expected switch in to retain offensive momentum
  • Try to prioritize keeping Mesprit healthy for a Pokemon that it is able to revenge kill
  • Once Mesprit's checks and counters are weakened, clean up late-game with the appropriate move
  • Healing Wish should generally be used if an important teammate or setup sweeper has been significantly weakened
Team Options
========
  • Sawk is the best partner for Mesprit, as it threatens Dark- and Steel-type Pokemon that resists Mesprit's STAB making it easier for it to clean late-game, weakens the opposing team thanks to its great wallbreaking potential, and combined with Healing Wish support, can abuse Sturdy to its fullest.
  • Skuntank is also a good partner due to its ability to threaten both Musharna and Mega Audino, both of which are bulky enough to take repeated hits easily from Mesprit
  • Entry hazard support is very beneficial for Mesprit, as it allows Mesprit to clean late-game with much more ease. Garbodor is an excellent partner, as it sets up hazards against several of Mesprit's answers such as Scyther and Mega Audino.
  • Setup sweepers including, Samurott, Shiftry, Klinklang, and Lilligant pair incredibly well with Mesprit, because all of them appreciate Healing Wish support
  • Swords Dance Mawile in particular is a great partner, as it switches into Scyther and Skuntank easily, while Mesprit takes care of problematic Pokemon such as Garbodor and Weezing, while also giving Mawile a second chance at sweeping with Healing Wish
Be less generic for this set since it's more niche than the others esp. in this meta. I'd talk about teams that really need Speed + a Psychic-type in one slot

[SET]
name: Defensive
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Psychic
move 3: U-turn / Healing Wish
move 4: Thunder Wave / Healing Wish
item: Leftovers / Colbur Berry
ability: Levitate
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 240 Def / 16 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
  • Stealth Rock supports Mesprit's teammates, while Mesprit makes decent user of the move due to it's ability to set it up against Pokemon it walls
  • Psychic is a reliable STAB that lets Mesprit deal consistent damage, while nailing Fighting- and Poison-types in particular
  • U-turn lets Mesprit keep up offensive momentum, allowing it to bring in teammates safely
  • Healing Wish is an alternative that allows Mesprit to bring a sweeper back to full HP and rid it of status
  • Thunder Wave lets Mesprit cripple fast offensive Pokemon, giving slower teammates the advantage
Set Details
========
  • Maximum HP EVs in tandem with 240 Defense EVs and a Bold Nature, allows Mesprit to take on physical attackers with ease.
  • The remaining EVs go into speed to let Mesprit, outspeed Adamant Mawile.
  • Leftovers gives Mesprit passive recovery, allowing it to last a little longer.
  • Colbur Berry is another option to let Mesprit more reliably check Fighting-types, while also letting avoid being Pursuit trapped one time.
Usage Tips
========
  • Due to the heavy defense investment, use Mesprit as a pivot for physical attackers
  • Try to get up Stealth Rock as soon as possible, and use it against a Pokemon that cannot do much in return
  • If Xatu is on the opposing team, anticipate its switch in by using U-turn to maintain offensive momentum and letting a teammate take care of it
  • Thunder Wave is a good move to use against fast offensive Pokemon, aiding slower teammates to run through the opponent's team
  • Only attack with Psychic when Mesprit absolutely needs to to get damage on Pokemon such as Gurdurr and Garbodor
  • Healing Wish should generally be used when a vital teammate or setup sweeper has been significantly weakened. Healing Wish should be used sparingly however, as it shouldn't be used when there are Pokemon on the opposing team that Mesprit needs to check.
  • If Mesprit is not holding a Colbur Berry, be wary of Pursuit trappers such as Skuntank and Liepard, and be be more cautious when switching into Fighting-types, as Mesprit is vulnerable to Knock Off
Team Options
========
  • Mesprit pairs incredibly well with setup sweepers such as Mawile, Klinklang, Samurott, and Shiftry, due to Mesprit's ability to bring them in safely with U-turn or give them a second shot at sweeping with Healing Wish, while providing all of them with Thunder Wave support. Mesprit also switches into Fighting-types such as Sawk and Gurdurr, which Klinklang and Shiftry greatly benefit from.
  • Wallbreakers such as Sawk and Aurorus pair well with this set, as Mesprit can slow down faster Pokemon with Thunder Wave, bring both of them in safely with a slow U-turn, while Healing Wish puts Sawk back to full HP letting it abuse Sturdy.
  • Other Volt Switch and U-turn users such as Scyther, Zebstrika, and Lanturn pair well, as together they maintain offensive momentum while the opposing team gets worn down by repeated Stealth Rock switch ins.
  • More defensive partners such as Mega Audino can keep Mesprit healthy with Wish, while also curing any status ailment with Heal Bell, while Mesprit is able to take on problematic Pokemon such as Garbodor. Miltank is also a decent partner, as it appreciates Mesprit's ability to switch into Fighting-types.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
  • A physically defensive set consisting of Psychic / U-turn / Stealth Rock / Thunder Wave with Colbur Berry is another option to let Mesprit take on Fighting-types with ease while providing support for the rest of the team Remove this
  • Choice Specs with Trick could also work, but generally Life Orb is better item, as Mesprit takes full advantage of its coverage by being able to switch between its moves
  • Due to Mesprit's surprisingly good physical movepool, it can also run a Choice Band set consisting of Zen Headbutt / Knock Off / Fire Punch / U-turn
  • Physical Choice Scarf can also be used, but it's more prone to being walled by physical walls and has worse coverage
  • Magic Coat to reflect back opposing hazards and prevent Taunt
  • A Dual Screens set can also be used, but generally Meowstic is better in this role thanks to Prankster
  • Weather starter set with either Rain Dance or Sunny Day
Checks and Counters
===================

**Dark-types**: Pawniard, Skuntank, Shiftry, and Liepard are all good answers to Mesprit, as the former two are able to switch on any move Mesprit has to offer with the exception of Hidden Power Ground, while all of them are capable of revenge killing Mesprit, no matter how fast it is with Sucker Punch. Skuntank and Liepard are also able to trap Mesprit locked into Psychic with Pursuit. Liepard is also able to Encore Mesprit into an unfavorable move and set up Nasty Plot, or cripple Choice Scarf variants greatly with Thunder Wave.

**Scyther**: Scyther outspeeds all non-Scarf Mesprit, threatens with STAB U-turn, and with Eviolite, can even use Mesprit as set up bait if it doesn't have either Ice Beam Thunderbolt.

**Steel-types**: Klinklang and Mawile are able to switch into most of Mesprit's attacks bar Hidden Power Ground, and are able to use Mesprit to setup Shift Gear and Swords Dance respectively. Bulkier Steel-types such as Ferroseed and Probopass are generally able to take any move Mesprit has and use Mesprit to set up Spikes and Stealth Rock or cripple it with Thunder Wave. I really don't like Mawile here, even LO Psychic does a ton to it (straight 2HKOes offensive maw lol) and solidly 3HKOes defensive ones too. Sets up on defensive and Scarf but eh still

**Faster Attackers**: Haunter, Mismagius, and Rotom naturally outspeed Mesprit and threaten with Shadow Ball, though none of these Pokemon can safely switch in. Mismagius also commonly carries Taunt, which prevents Mesprit from setting up Stealth Rock or attempting to heal a teammate with Healing Wish.

**Bulky Pokemon**: Musharna and Mega Audino are capable of taking almost any hit from Mesprit and as a result, use Mesprit to set up Calm Mind with ease. However, Musharna does not appreciate taking Life Orb Mesprit's Calm Mind-boosted Signal Beam. Xatu is able to to take most moves from Mesprit with the exception of Ice Beam, prevent Stealth Rock from going up with Magic Bounce, and hit Mesprit with Signal Beam. Malamar is bulky enough to use non-Signal Beam Mesprit to boost with Superpower and threaten STAB Knock Off.
Comments in bold, tag me back when you've done this and I'll stamp.
 

Finchinator

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In the second point in the Overview, I'd change "attacking prowess" to "special and physical attacking prowess" or "mixed attacking prowess" given that it can hit from both sides (although special is a bit more noteworthy, but still).

Forth point in Set Comments for first set and third point in Set Comments for the Scarf set: you could add mentions of Shiftry and maybe Cacturne when discussing the merits of Signal Beam.

Consider mentioning Sub+PuP+Knock+Zen in OO; it's not /that/ bad and I think a one line mention would be sufficient (or maybe just PuP on a physical set in general, your call).

I know Metang is hardly ever seen, but it's still viable, so maybe consider adding that to the list of steel types in the Checks and Counters (btw, I agree w/ Blast on the removal of Mawile, but it appears that you've already done that, nice).

Looks good overall, qc 2/3 once you add the first two and at least consider the later two.
 

boltsandbombers

i'm sorry mr. man
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I'd like to have the defensive set second because it is quite good for a bulky pivot on offensive team that fulfills so many roles (ground immunity, rocks, fighting resist, speed control) and is more splashable than scarf or life orb. Speak up if you disagree.

Other stuff:

I would say its the most versatile mon in the tier, so reword the first the first sentence to reflect that.

Deslash Life Orb from Stealth Rock and keep it in Set Details, as having Colbur is just so much more useful and chipping away at its longevity sucks when its your Stealth Rocker given that you'll often want it to take hits here and there.

On defensive set details note that the speed also outpaces Jollly Rhydon which is nice to hit it for 35-40% with a Psychic if need be.

Rename the set Physically Defensive since its a bit more clear as to what it is. Deslash Healing Wish after U-turn and keep it slashed after twave, having a slow U-turn is super important to pivot out of xatu, darks, and not to be a sitting duck in general.

Is HP Ground really that good to be first slash on lo and be slashed after healing wish? I mean I guess it hits steel types but I've never tried it (or seen it used for that matter). I mean what coverage moves you pick are super team dependent for the most part anyways so its not a huge deal.

In C&C note Scyther doesnt like getting twaved from the defensive set.

edit: change that section to bug types since jolly pinsir outspeeds timid mes and revenge kills non defensive sets with x-scissor

Everything else is very good, if you have any questions lmk as always
QC 3/3
 
Last edited:

Lumari

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(comments); (AC=add comma; RC=remove comma; SC=semicolon)
GP 1/2
[OVERVIEW]

Mesprit is NU's most versatile Pokemon thanks a large movepool and balanced stats all-around (add hyphen) that give it good bulk and attacking prowess, allowing it to run a variety of sets. Mesprit also has access to very good support moves in Stealth Rock and the coveted Healing Wish, which allows it to bring back a weakened teammate back to full, giving it another chance to break through the opposing team. Its Psychic typing plus Levitate gives Mesprit useful resistances to Fighting- and Ground-type attacks, giving it many switch in opportunities to switch in. However, its Psychic typing also leaves it vulnerable to Pursuit trappers, most notably Skuntank, which can switch in on almost all of Mespirt's attacks, causing it to be a liability at times. Choice Scarf sets are also easily revenge killed by Sucker Punch users such as Shiftry and Skuntank. Mesprit also has mediocre Speed for an offensive Pokemon, which in some cases leaves it outsped by Pokemon it's supposed to check, such as Sawk. While Mesprit does have a wide movepool, it tends to struggle fitting all of the moves it wants on one set.

[SET]
name: Offensive Stealth Rock
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Psychic
move 3: Ice Beam / Signal Beam / Hidden Power Ground
move 4: Healing Wish / Hidden Power Ground
item: Colbur Berry
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Stealth Rock supports Mesprit's teammates, (AC) and it makes for good user of the move (RC) due to Levitate giving a good matchup (remove space) against Rhydon. Psychic is a reliable STAB move that hits targets such as Gurdurr and Garbodor very hard. Ice Beam most notably hits Xatu, which will attempt to bounce back Stealth Rock, as well as hitting Torterra, Shiftry, Scyther, and Rhydon. Signal Beam primarily hits Malamar, as well as Musharna, Shiftry, and opposing Mesprit. Hidden Power Ground is an alternative mainly for Skuntank, but it also hits Mawile, Pawniard, and Klinklang as well. Healing Wish is great utility move that brings an ally back to full and HP and cures any status ailments. Psyshock is an alternative to Psychic (I guess?) to hit Cryogonal, Assault Vest Hariyama, and Magmortar harder. Thunderbolt is also an option for hitting bulky Water-types such as Prinplup, Pelipper, and Mantine, as well as retaining coverage on Xatu. Energy Ball scores the OHKO on Rhydon and Quagsire (RC) and does good damage to both Lanturn and Prinplup. U-turn is an option over Healing Wish to keep up offensive momentum and potentially let a teammate safely switch in. Hidden Power Fire lets Mesprit mainly hit Ferroseed (RC) while also getting damage on other Steel-types.

Set Details
========

Maximum Speed EVs plus a Timid nature (RC) ensure Mesprit outspeeds as many Pokemon as possible, including Adamant Sawk, (AC) and speed tying Speed ties with other positive-natured base 80 Speed Pokemon, while maximum Special Attack EVs lets let it hit as hard as possible. Colbur Berry allows Mesprit to act as a more reliable Fighting-type check as well as avoid being trapped by Pursuit one time, while Life Orb is an alternative for higher damage output, most notably getting a guaranteed OHKO on Malamar with Signal Beam and 2HKOing Skunktank after Stealth Rock with Hidden Power Ground. Levitate is Mesprit's only ability, but is very useful for its providing an immunity to Ground-type moves as well as its immunity to and all entry hazards bar Stealth Rock. A spread of 92 HP / 252 SpA / 164 Spe with a Timid nature gives Mesprit a little more bulk (RC) while still outspeeding neutral base 80 Speed Pokemon, while a spread of 56 HP / 252 SpA / 200 Spe with a Timid nature lets it outspeed Adamant Sawk. Mesprit can also drop Healing Wish for a second coverage move, making which makes it less likely to be walled by certain Pokemon and should generally be run along with Life Orb.

Usage Tips
========

This set generally makes a good lead (RC) thanks to its favorable matchup against most Stealth Rock users. If Xatu is on the opposing team, avoid the use of Stealth Rock and instead use Ice Beam or, (AC) if not running the move, make a double switch to Pokemon that threaten it, (AC) such as Skuntank or and Liepard. If Mesprit is not running Colbur berry, be cautious when switching into Gurdurr or Sawk, as both deal heavy damage with Knock Off. Try to play carefully with Mesprit when a Pursuit user is on the opposing side, as keeping Mesprit healthy / around (pick the appropriate one) may be crucial if it is the team's only way to check Fighting-types. Healing Wish should only be used in situations where a teammate needs to stay healthy in order to check a specific threat or if a sweeper has been heavily weakened and/or crippled by status.

Team Options
========

Setup sweepers such as Swords Dance Samurott, Shiftry, and Rock Polish Rhydon are excellent partners, as both of them appreciate Stealth Rock support and can be played more recklessly thanks to Healing Wish support. Rhydon in particular pairs well, as it threatens and uses Skuntank as setup bait, while Mesprit checks Fighting-types including Sawk, Gurdurr, and Poliwrath, all of which can halt Rhydon's attempt in sweeping. Dark-types such as Liepard and Skuntank are an issue for Mesprit, especially when it's (apostrophe) not using a Colbur Berry, as both are able to Pursuit trap Mesprit; (SC) so therefore, (AC) Sawk and Gurdurr make excellent partners, as it threatens ("they threaten", I guess?) both of them greatly, while Stealth Rock support discourages one of their best offensive checks in Scyther from switching in, as well as general support. Skuntank also works well for its ability to Pursuit trap Xatu (RC) as well as Ghost-types that threaten Mesprit, while in return, Mesprit covers Skuntank's lone weakness to Ground and is able to threaten Fighting-types that give Skuntank issues.

[SET]
name: Life Orb + 3 Attacks
move 1: Psychic / Psyshock
move 2: Signal Beam
move 3: Hidden Power Ground / Energy Ball
move 4: Healing Wish / Calm Mind
item: Life Orb
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid / Modest
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Psychic is Mesprit's most powerful and reliable STAB move, dealing high amounts damage to Gurdurr and Garbodor. Psyshock is an alternative to hit Cryognal, Assault Vest Hariyama, and Magmortar harder. Signal Beam has good coverage with Mesprit's Psychic STAB type, hitting targets such as Shiftry, Liepard, Malamar, Exeggutor, and Musharna. Hidden Power Ground hits Skuntank, Pawniard, Klinklang, and Mawile, which otherwise take Mesprit's attacks very well. Energy Ball is an alternative to nail Rhydon, Quagsire, Samurott, Prinplup, and Lanturn. Healing Wish is great utility move that allows Mesprit to bring back a heavily damaged teammate. Calm Mind is another option over Healing Wish to make Mesprit hit very hard after a boost, allowing it to act a bulky win condition. Ice Beam is another option to hit Xatu, Scyther, and Torterra. Thunderbolt hits Water-types neutral to Grass such as Mantine and Pelipper, as well as retaining coverage against Xatu and Scyther. Hidden Power Fire is also an option to mainly hit Ferroseed harder (RC) while retaining coverage against Klinklang and Mawile.

Set Details
========

Maximum Speed EVs allows allow Mesprit to outspeed as many Pokemon as possible, while maximum Special Attack EVs allows allow it to hit as hard as possible. A Timid nature is generally the better option, as it allows Mesprit to outspeed Adamant Sawk, as well as Speed tie with opposing positive-natured base 80 Speed Pokemon including such as Shiftry and Kabutops, but Modest can still be chosen for more power. Life Orb is chosen for the good boost in damage output and allows Mesprit to switch between its moves, which tends to be crucial for a Pokemon with lets it get most mileage out of its ("generic" statements should be axed, but now it's not generic anymore :> ) great coverage. Colbur Berry in conjunction with Calm Mind is another option to ensure that Mesprit's sweep is not ended prematurely against a Dark-type. Another variant of this set involving four attacks is also an option if Healing Wish support is not desired, and makes making Mesprit much harder for the opponent to safely switch into.

Usage Tips
========

Use powerful Life Orb-boosted attacks early- to mid-game to break down the foe's bulkier Pokemon. If the opponent has Pursuit user, use the appropriate coverage move to catch them on the switch. Don't switch in Mesprit haphazardly; (SC) rather, bring it in with a slow U-turn and or Volt Switch or after a Pokemon has fainted, as Mesprit already gets worn down by Life Orb recoil. Healing Wish should be used when it is absolutely crucial to keep a teammate healthy against a threatening Pokemon on the opposing side or when a sweeper has been significantly weakened. Calm Mind is generally best used against balanced teams where Mesprit needs a bit more power to break through bulkier Pokemon; against offense, it is far more beneficial to attack.

Team Options
========

Sawk and Gurdurr make excellent partners for Mesprit, as both are able to check Dark-types very well, while Mesprit takes down Garbodor and Weezing. Healing Wish support with Sawk in particular can be a deadly combination, as Mesprit brings Sawk back to full, making can make Sawk's Sturdy active once again upon bringing it back to full. Combusken is also a decent partner due to its ability to check Dark-types such as Shiftry, Pawniard, and Liepard, but most notably, it is able to pass Speed boosts to Mesprit, making it outspeed many offensive Pokemon. Swords Dance Mawile is a great partner, as it switches into Scyther and uses it as set up setup bait, while Mesprit breaks down Garbodor and Weezing, as well as and can replenish Mawile's HP and rid Mawile it of any status ailments with Healing Wish. Other setup sweepers such as Shiftry, Samurott, Lilligant, and Klinklang also greatly benefit from Healing Wish, (AC) and all of them appreciate Mesprit's early- to mid-game wall breaking capabilities, making it easier to clean late-game. Mesprit tends to have issues breaking through Mega Audino and Musharna, (AC) so Skuntank and Haunter make good partners for their ability to threaten both with their respective STAB moves (RC) and prevent them from setting up or healing HP with Taunt. Skuntank is also able to Pursuit trap other Psychic-types, as well as eliminate faster Ghost-types, including Haunter, Rotom, and Mismagius.

[SET]
name: Physically Defensive
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Psychic
move 3: U-turn
move 4: Thunder Wave / Healing Wish
item: Leftovers / Colbur Berry
ability: Levitate
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 240 Def / 16 Spe

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

Stealth Rock supports Mesprit's teammates, while Mesprit makes for a decent user of the move due to it's its ability to set it up against Pokemon it walls. Psychic is a reliable STAB that lets Mesprit deal consistent damage, while nailing Fighting- and Poison-types in particular. U-turn lets Mesprit keep up offensive momentum, allowing it to bring in teammates safely. Healing Wish is an alternative that allows Mesprit to bring a sweeper back to full HP and rid it of status. Thunder Wave lets Mesprit cripple fast offensive Pokemon, giving slower teammates the advantage.

Set Details
========

Maximum HP EVs in tandem with 240 Defense EVs and a Bold nature (RC) allows allow Mesprit to take on physical attackers with ease. The remaining EVs go into speed to let Mesprit (RC) outspeed Adamant Mawile. Leftovers gives Mesprit passive recovery, allowing it to last a little longer. Colbur Berry is another option to let Mesprit more reliably check Fighting-types (RC) while also letting it avoid being Pursuit trapped one time.

Usage Tips
========

Due to the heavy Defense investment, use Mesprit as a pivot for into physical attackers. Try to get up Stealth Rock as soon as possible, and use it against a Pokemon that cannot do much in return. If Xatu is on the opposing team, anticipate its switch in by using U-turn to maintain offensive momentum and letting a teammate take care of it. Thunder Wave is a good move to use against fast offensive Pokemon, aiding slower teammates to run through the opponent's team. Only attack with Psychic when Mesprit absolutely needs to to get damage on Pokemon such as Gurdurr and Garbodor. Healing Wish should generally be used when a vital teammate or setup sweeper has been significantly weakened. Healing Wish It should be used sparingly, (AC) however, as it shouldn't be used when there are Pokemon on the opposing team that Mesprit needs to check. If Mesprit is not holding a Colbur Berry, be wary of Pursuit trappers such as Skuntank and Liepard, and be be more cautious when switching into Fighting-types, as Mesprit is vulnerable to Knock Off.

Team Options
========

Mesprit pairs incredibly well with setup sweepers such as Mawile, Klinklang, Samurott, and Shiftry (RC) due to Mesprit's its ability to bring them in safely with U-turn or give them a second shot at sweeping with Healing Wish (RC) while providing all of them with Thunder Wave support. Mesprit also switches into Fighting-types such as Sawk and Gurdurr, which Klinklang and Shiftry greatly benefit from. Wallbreakers such as Sawk and Aurorus pair well with this set, as Mesprit can slow down faster Pokemon with Thunder Wave, bring both of them in safely with a slow U-turn, while Healing Wish puts and restore Sawk's back to full HP letting it abuse Sturdy with Healing Wish. Other Volt Switch and U-turn users such as Scyther, Zebstrika, and Lanturn pair well, as together they maintain offensive momentum while the opposing team gets worn down by repeatedly switching into Stealth Rock switch ins. More defensive partners such as Mega Audino can keep Mesprit healthy with Wish (RC) while also curing any status ailment with Heal Bell, while Mesprit is able to take on problematic Pokemon such as Garbodor. Miltank is also a decent partner, as it appreciates Mesprit's ability to switch into Fighting-types.

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Psychic
move 2: Ice Beam / Signal Beam
move 3: U-turn
move 4: Healing Wish
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Levitate
nature: Modest / Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Psychic is Mesprit's most powerful and reliable STAB and doubles as a decent late-game cleaning tool. Ice Beam is very useful for Mesprit to revenge kill Pokemon such as Archeops, Scyther, and Swellow, as well as hitting Xatu, Torterra, and Rhydon. Signal Beam is an alternative to hit Malamar, Musharna, Jynx, Shiftry, and opposing Mesprit. U-turn is great for retaining offensive momentum, and lets notably letting Mesprit switch out safely on expected switch ins switches to a Pursuit user. Healing Wish is a great support move that brings a teammate back to full HP and cures and it of status, at the cost of sacrificing Mesprit. Thunderbolt is another option to hit Water-types such as Floatzel, Prinplup, Mantine, and Pelipper, in addition to already hitting Archeops, Scyther, Swellow, and Xatu. Psyshock can be used over Psychic to hit targets such as Cryogonal, Assault Vest Magmortar, and Hariyama much harder. Trick is another option over Healing Wish to cripple a wall, but the utility of Healing Wish makes this inferior most of the time.

Set Details
========

Maximum Special Attack EVs allow Mesprit to hit as hard as possible, while maximum Speed EVs ensure it outspeeds as many Pokemon possible. A Modest nature is generally preferred for more attacking power, but Timid nature is another option to outspeed Jolly Rock Polish Rhydon and Adamant Choice Scarf Sawk. Choice Scarf boosts Mesprit's Speed significantly, allowing to outspeed and revenge kill a good majority of the unboosted metagame. Levitate gives Mesprit a Ground immunity, which can allow it to switch in unscathed and makes it less prone to being worn down by entry hazards.

Usage Tips
========

Mesprit should almost always be brought in after a Pokemon has fainted or with a slow U-turn or Volt Switch. Mesprit should also abuse take advantage of Levitate and its typing to pivot into Ground-, Fighting-, and Psychic-type attacks. Early-game, when answers to Mesprit are still around, use U-turn to switch out on their expected switch in to retain offensive momentum. Try to prioritize keeping Mesprit healthy for a Pokemon that it is able to revenge kill. Once Mesprit's checks and counters are weakened, clean up late-game with the appropriate move. Healing Wish should generally be used if an important teammate or setup sweeper has been significantly weakened.

Team Options
========

This set fits well on teams that need a fast Psychic-type to revenge kill faster Fighting-types such as Sawk and Primeape (RC) while also keeping up offensive momentum, so partners such as Archeops and Klinklang pair well. Both also appreciate Healing Wish support, as it puts the former out of Defeatist range if it has been weakened enough and gives the latter a second shot at sweeping the opposing team. Sawk is the best partner for Mesprit, as it threatens Dark- and Steel-type Pokemon that resists resist Mesprit's STAB moves, (AC) making it easier for it to clean late-game, weakens the opposing team thanks to its great wallbreaking potential, and combined with Healing Wish support, can abuse take full advantage of Sturdy to its fullest. Skuntank is also a good partner due to its ability to threaten both Musharna and Mega Audino, both of which are bulky enough to take repeated hits easily from Mesprit. Entry hazard support is very beneficial for Mesprit, as it allows Mesprit to clean late-game with much more ease. Garbodor is an excellent partner, as it sets up hazards against several of Mesprit's answers such as Scyther and Mega Audino. Setup sweepers including (RC) Samurott, Shiftry, and Lilligant pair incredibly well with Mesprit, because all of them appreciate Healing Wish support. Swords Dance Mawile in particular is a great partner, as it switches into Scyther and Skuntank easily (RC) while Mesprit takes care of problematic Pokemon such as Garbodor and Weezing, while also giving and can give Mawile a second chance at sweeping with Healing Wish.

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

Choice Specs with Trick could also work, but generally Life Orb is better item, as Mesprit takes full advantage of its coverage by being able to switch between its moves. Due to Mesprit's surprisingly good physical movepool, it can also run a Choice Band set consisting of Zen Headbutt / Knock Off / Fire Punch / U-turn. Physical Choice Scarf can also be used, but it's more prone to being walled by physical walls and has worse coverage. Future Sight is another option to pressure Fighting- and Poison-type Pokemon while Mesprit is not on the field. Power-Up Punch can also be used on non-Choiced physical sets to boost Mesprit's attack (RC) while letting it switch between its coverage moves. Magic Coat can be used to reflect back opposing entry hazards and prevent Taunt from leads such as Stealth Rock Archeops. A dual screens set can also be used, but generally Meowstic is better in this role thanks to Prankster. Sunny Day or Rain Dance can be used on the defensive set if a bulky weather starter with that can provide pivot support is needed.

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

**Dark-types**: Pawniard, Skuntank, Shiftry, and Liepard are all good answers to Mesprit, as the former two are able to switch on any move Mesprit has to offer with the exception of Hidden Power Ground, while all of them are capable of revenge killing Mesprit, no matter how fast it is, (AC) with Sucker Punch. Skuntank and Liepard are also able to Pursuit trap Mesprit locked into Psychic with Pursuit. Liepard is also able to Encore Mesprit into an unfavorable move and set up Nasty Plot (RC) or cripple Choice Scarf variants greatly with Thunder Wave.

**Bug-types**: Scyther outspeeds all non-Choice Scarf Mesprit, threatens it with STAB U-turn, and, (AC) with Eviolite, can even use Mesprit as set up setup bait if it doesn't have either Ice Beam or Thunderbolt. Scyther, (AC) however, doesn't appreciate being crippled by Thunder Wave. Pinsir naturally outspeeds Mesprit and hits with STAB X-Scissor, dealing heavy damage.

**Steel-types**: Klinklang is able to switch into most of Mesprit's attacks bar Hidden Power Ground (RC) and is able to use Mesprit to set(space)up Shift Gear freely. Bulkier Steel-types such as Ferroseed, Metang, and Probopass are generally able to take any move Mesprit has and use Mesprit to set up Spikes (RC) or Stealth Rock or cripple it with Thunder Wave.

**Faster Attackers**: Haunter, Mismagius, and Rotom naturally outspeed Mesprit and threaten it with Shadow Ball, though none of these Pokemon can safely switch in. Mismagius also commonly carries Taunt, which prevents Mesprit from setting up Stealth Rock or attempting to heal a teammate with Healing Wish.

**Bulky Pokemon**: Musharna and Mega Audino are capable of taking almost any hit from Mesprit and, (AC) as a result, can use Mesprit to set up Calm Mind with ease. However, Musharna does not appreciate taking Life Orb Mesprit's Calm Mind-boosted Signal Beam. Xatu is able to to take most moves from Mesprit with the exception of Ice Beam, prevent Stealth Rock from going up with Magic Bounce, and hit Mesprit with Signal Beam. Malamar is bulky enough to use non-Signal Beam Mesprit to boost with Superpower and can threaten it with STAB Knock Off.
 
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[OVERVIEW]

Mesprit is NU's most versatile Pokemon thanks to its a large movepool and balanced stats all-around that give it good bulk and attacking prowess, allowing it to run a variety of sets. Mesprit also has access to very good support moves in Stealth Rock and the coveted Healing Wish, which allows it to bring back a weakened teammate back to full health, giving it another chance to break through the opposing team. Its Psychic typing plus Levitate gives Mesprit useful resistances to Fighting- and Ground-type attacks, giving it many opportunities to switch in. However, the same its Psychic typing also leaves it vulnerable to Pursuit trappers, most notably Skuntank, which can switch in on almost all of Mesprit's attacks, causing it to be a liability at times. Choice Scarf sets are also easily revenge killed by Sucker Punch users such as Shiftry and Skuntank. Mesprit also has mediocre Speed for an offensive Pokemon, which in some cases leaves it outsped by Pokemon it's supposed to check, such as Sawk. While Mesprit does have a wide movepool, it tends to struggle fitting all of the moves it wants on one set.

[SET]
name: Offensive Stealth Rock
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Psychic
move 3: Ice Beam / Signal Beam / Hidden Power Ground
move 4: Healing Wish / Hidden Power Ground
item: Colbur Berry
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Stealth Rock supports Mesprit's teammates, and it makes for a good user of the move due to Levitate giving it a good matchup against Rhydon. Psychic is a reliable STAB move that hits targets such as Gurdurr and Garbodor very hard. Ice Beam most notably hits Xatu, which will attempt to bounce back Stealth Rock, as well as hitting Torterra, Shiftry, Scyther, and Rhydon. Signal Beam primarily hits Malamar, as well as Musharna, Shiftry, and opposing Mesprit. Hidden Power Ground is an alternative mainly for Skuntank, but it hits Mawile, Pawniard, and Klinklang as well. Healing Wish brings an ally back to full HP and cures any status ailments. Psyshock is an alternative to Psychic to hit Cryogonal, Assault Vest Hariyama, and Magmortar harder. Thunderbolt is also an option for hitting bulky Water-types such as Prinplup, Pelipper, and Mantine, as well as retaining coverage on Xatu. Energy Ball scores the OHKO on Rhydon and Quagsire and does good damage to both Lanturn and Prinplup. U-turn is an option over Healing Wish to keep up offensive momentum and potentially let a teammate safely switch in. Hidden Power Fire lets Mesprit mainly hit Ferroseed while also getting damage on other Steel-types.

Set Details
========

Maximum Speed EVs plus a Timid nature ensure Mesprit outspeeds as many Pokemon as possible, including Adamant Sawk, and Speed ties with other positive-natured base 80 Speed Pokemon, while maximum Special Attack EVs let it hit as hard as possible. Colbur Berry allows Mesprit to act as a more reliable Fighting-type check as well as avoid being trapped by Pursuit one time, while Life Orb is an alternative for higher damage output, most notably getting a guaranteed OHKO on Malamar with Signal Beam and 2HKOing Skuntank after Stealth Rock with Hidden Power Ground. Levitate is Mesprit's only ability, but it is very useful for providing an immunity to Ground-type moves and all entry hazards bar Stealth Rock. A spread of 92 HP / 252 SpA / 164 Spe with a Timid nature gives Mesprit a little more bulk while still letting it outspeeding neutral-natured base 80 Speed Pokemon, while a spread of 56 HP / 252 SpA / 200 Spe with a Timid nature lets it outspeed Adamant Sawk. Mesprit can also drop Healing Wish for a second coverage move, which makes it less likely to be walled by certain Pokemon and should generally be run along with Life Orb. (covered in Moves)

Usage Tips
========

This set generally makes for a good lead thanks to its favorable matchup against most Stealth Rock users. If Xatu is on the opposing team, avoid the use of Stealth Rock and instead use Ice Beam or, if not running the move, make a double switch to a Pokemon that threatens it, such as Skuntank and or Liepard. If Mesprit is not running Colbur Berry, be cautious when switching into Gurdurr or Sawk, as both deal heavy damage with Knock Off. Try to play carefully with Mesprit when a Pursuit user is on the opposing side, as keeping Mesprit around may be crucial if it is the team's only way to check Fighting-types. Healing Wish should only be used in situations where a teammate needs to stay healthy in order to check a specific threat or if a sweeper has been heavily weakened or crippled by status.

Team Options
========

Setup sweepers such as Swords Dance Samurott, Swords Dance (is that correct?) Shiftry, and Rock Polish Rhydon are excellent partners, as both all three of them appreciate Stealth Rock support and can be played more recklessly thanks to Healing Wish support. Rhydon in particular pairs well with Mesprit, as it threatens and uses Skuntank and uses it as setup bait, while Mesprit checks Fighting-types including Sawk, Gurdurr, and Poliwrath, all of which can halt Rhydon's attempt in to sweeping. Dark-types such as Liepard and Skuntank are an issue for Mesprit, especially when it's not using a Colbur Berry, as both are able to Pursuit trap Mesprit; therefore, Sawk and Gurdurr make for excellent partners, as they threaten it threatens both of them greatly, while Mesprit's Stealth Rock support discourages one of their best offensive checks in Scyther from switching in. Skuntank also works well for its ability to Pursuit trap Xatu as well as Ghost-types that threaten Mesprit, while in return, Mesprit covers Skuntank's lone weakness to Ground and is able to threaten Fighting-types that give Skuntank issues.

[SET]
name: Life Orb + 3 Attacks
move 1: Psychic / Psyshock
move 2: Signal Beam
move 3: Hidden Power Ground / Energy Ball
move 4: Healing Wish / Calm Mind
item: Life Orb
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid / Modest
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Psychic is Mesprit's most powerful and reliable STAB move, dealing high amounts of damage to Gurdurr and Garbodor. Psyshock is an alternative to hit Cryogonal, Assault Vest Hariyama, and Magmortar harder. Signal Beam has good coverage with Mesprit's Psychic STAB type, hitting targets such as Shiftry, Liepard, Malamar, Exeggutor, and Musharna. Hidden Power Ground hits Skuntank, Pawniard, Klinklang, and Mawile, which otherwise take Mesprit's attacks very well. Energy Ball is an alternative to nail Rhydon, Quagsire, Samurott, Prinplup, and Lanturn. Healing Wish allows Mesprit to bring back a heavily damaged teammate. Calm Mind is an option over Healing Wish to make Mesprit hit very hard after a boost, allowing it to act a bulky wincon win condition (new terminology, details of its coinage should be posted in the Standards soon). Ice Beam is another option to hit Xatu, Scyther, and Torterra. Thunderbolt hits Water-types neutral to Grass such as Mantine and Pelipper, as well as retaining coverage against Xatu and Scyther. Hidden Power Fire is also an option to mainly hit Ferroseed harder while retaining coverage against Klinklang and Mawile.

Set Details
========

Maximum Speed EVs allow Mesprit to outspeed as many Pokemon as possible, while maximum Special Attack EVs allow it to hit as hard as possible. A Timid nature is generally the better option, as it allows Mesprit to outspeed Adamant Sawk, as well as Speed tie with opposing positive-natured base 80 Speed Pokemon such as Shiftry and Kabutops, but Modest can still be chosen for more power. Life Orb is chosen for the good boost in damage output and allows Mesprit to switch between its moves, which lets it get the most mileage out of its great coverage. Colbur Berry in conjunction with Calm Mind is another option to ensure that Mesprit's sweep is not ended prematurely against a Dark-type. Another variant of this set involving four attacks is also an option if Healing Wish support is not desired, making Mesprit much harder for the opponent to safely switch a Pokemon into.

Usage Tips
========

Use powerful Life Orb-boosted attacks early- to and mid-game to break down the foe's opponent's bulkier Pokemon. If the opponent has a Pursuit user, use the appropriate coverage move to catch them on the switch. Don't switch in Mesprit haphazardly; rather, bring it in with a slow U-turn or Volt Switch or after a Pokemon has fainted, as Mesprit already gets worn down by Life Orb recoil. Healing Wish should be used when it is absolutely crucial to keep a teammate healthy against a threatening Pokemon on the opposing side or when a sweeper has been significantly weakened. Calm Mind is generally best used against balanced teams where Mesprit needs a bit more power to break through bulkier Pokemon; against offense, it is far more beneficial to attack.

Team Options
========

Sawk and Gurdurr make are excellent partners for Mesprit, as both are able to check Dark-types very well, while Mesprit takes down Garbodor and Weezing. Healing Wish support with Sawk in particular can be a deadly combination, as Mesprit can make Sawk's Sturdy active once again upon bringing it back to full health. Combusken is also a decent partner due to its ability to check Dark-types such as Shiftry, Pawniard, and Liepard, but most notably, it is able to pass Speed boosts to Mesprit, making it outspeed many offensive Pokemon. Swords Dance Mawile is a great partner, as it switches into Scyther and uses it as setup bait, while Mesprit breaks down Garbodor and Weezing and can replenish Mawile's HP and rid it of any status ailments with Healing Wish. Other setup sweepers such as Shiftry, Samurott, Lilligant, and Klinklang also greatly benefit from Healing Wish, and all of them appreciate Mesprit's early- to and mid-game wallbreaking capabilities, making it easier for them to clean late-game. Mesprit tends to have issues breaking through Mega Audino and Musharna, so Skuntank and Haunter make are good partners for their ability to threaten both with their respective STAB moves and prevent them from setting up or healing HP with Taunt. Skuntank is also able to Pursuit trap other Psychic-types, as well as eliminate faster Ghost-types, including Haunter, Rotom, and Mismagius.

[SET]
name: Physically Defensive
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Psychic
move 3: U-turn
move 4: Thunder Wave / Healing Wish
item: Leftovers / Colbur Berry
ability: Levitate
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 240 Def / 16 Spe

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

Stealth Rock supports Mesprit's teammates, while and Mesprit makes for a decent user of the move due to its ability to set it up against Pokemon it walls. Psychic lets Mesprit deal consistent damage, nailing Fighting- and Poison-types in particular. U-turn lets Mesprit keep up offensive momentum, allowing it to bring in teammates safely. Healing Wish is an alternative (not according to the set. please fix the set or this paragraph to match orders. right now the paragraph makes it seems like it should be move 3: U-turn / Healing Wish and move 4: Thunder Wave, which is not what the set says) that allows Mesprit to bring a sweeper back to full HP and rid it of status. Thunder Wave lets Mesprit cripple fast offensive Pokemon, giving slower teammates the advantage.

Set Details
========

Maximum HP EVs in tandem with 240 Defense EVs and a Bold nature allow Mesprit to take on physical attackers with ease. The remaining EVs go into Speed to let Mesprit outspeed Adamant Mawile. Leftovers gives Mesprit passive recovery, allowing it to last a little longer. Colbur Berry is another option to let Mesprit more reliably check Fighting-types while also letting it avoid being Pursuit trapped one time.

Usage Tips
========

Due to the its heavy Defense investment, you can use Mesprit as a pivot into physical attackers. Try to set up Stealth Rock as soon as possible, and use it against a Pokemon that cannot do much in return. If Xatu is on the opposing team, anticipate its switch in by using U-turn to maintain offensive momentum and letting a teammate take care of it. Thunder Wave is a good move to use against fast offensive Pokemon, aiding slower teammates to run through the opponent's team. Only attack with Psychic when Mesprit absolutely needs to to get damage on Pokemon such as Gurdurr and Garbodor. Healing Wish should generally be used when a vital teammate or setup sweeper has been significantly weakened. It should be used sparingly, however, as it shouldn't be used when there are Pokemon on the opposing team that Mesprit needs to check. If Mesprit is not holding a Colbur Berry, be wary of Pursuit trappers such as Skuntank and Liepard, and be more cautious when switching into Fighting-types, as Mesprit is vulnerable to Knock Off.

Team Options
========

Mesprit pairs incredibly well with setup sweepers such as Mawile, Klinklang, Samurott, and Shiftry due to its ability to bring them in safely with U-turn, (AC) or give them a second shot at sweeping with Healing Wish, and provide while providing all of them with Thunder Wave support. Mesprit also switches into Fighting-types such as Sawk and Gurdurr, which Klinklang and Shiftry greatly benefit from. Wallbreakers such as Sawk and Aurorus pair well with this set, as Mesprit can slow down faster Pokemon with Thunder Wave, bring both of them in safely with a slow U-turn, and restore Sawk's Sturdy with Healing Wish. Other Volt Switch and U-turn and Volt Switch users such as Scyther, Zebstrika, and Lanturn are good teammates for Mesprit pair well, as together they maintain offensive momentum while the opposing team gets worn down by repeatedly switching into Stealth Rock. More defensive partners such as Mega Audino can keep Mesprit healthy with Wish while also curing any status ailment with Heal Bell, while Mesprit is able to take on problematic Pokemon such as Garbodor. Miltank is also a decent partner, as it appreciates Mesprit's ability to switch into Fighting-types.

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Psychic
move 2: Ice Beam / Signal Beam
move 3: U-turn
move 4: Healing Wish
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Levitate
nature: Modest / Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Psychic is Mesprit's most powerful and reliable STAB move and doubles as a decent late-game cleaning tool. Ice Beam is very useful for Mesprit to revenge kill Pokemon such as Archeops, Scyther, and Swellow, as well as hitting Xatu, Torterra, and Rhydon. Signal Beam is an alternative to hit Malamar, Musharna, Jynx, Shiftry, and opposing Mesprit. U-turn is great for retaining offensive momentum, notably letting Mesprit switch out safely on expected switches to a Pursuit user. Healing Wish brings a teammate back to full HP and cures it of status, at the cost of sacrificing Mesprit. Thunderbolt is another option to hit Water-types such as Floatzel, Prinplup, Mantine, and Pelipper, in addition to already hitting Archeops, Scyther, Swellow, and Xatu. Psyshock can be used over Psychic to hit targets such as Cryogonal, Assault Vest Magmortar, and Hariyama much harder. Trick is another option over Healing Wish to cripple a wall, but the utility of Healing Wish makes this inferior most of the time.

Set Details
========

Maximum Special Attack EVs allow Mesprit to hit as hard as possible, while maximum Speed EVs ensure it outspeeds as many Pokemon possible. A Modest nature is generally preferred for more attacking power, but Timid is another option to outspeed Jolly Rock Polish Rhydon and Adamant Choice Scarf Sawk. Choice Scarf boosts Mesprit's Speed significantly, allowing it to outspeed and revenge kill a good majority of the unboosted metagame. Levitate gives Mesprit a Ground immunity, which can allow it to switch in unscathed and makes it less prone to being worn down by entry hazards.

Usage Tips
========

Mesprit should almost always be brought in after a Pokemon has fainted or with a slow U-turn or Volt Switch. Mesprit should also take advantage of Levitate and its typing to pivot into Ground-, Fighting-, and Psychic-type attacks. Early-game, when answers to Mesprit are still around, use U-turn to switch out on their expected switch in to retain offensive momentum. Try to prioritize keeping Mesprit healthy for a Pokemon that it is able to revenge kill. Once Mesprit's checks and counters are weakened, clean up late-game with the appropriate move. Healing Wish should generally be used if an important teammate or setup sweeper has been significantly weakened.

Team Options
========

This set fits well on teams that need a fast Psychic-type to revenge kill faster Fighting-types such as Sawk and Primeape while also keeping up offensive momentum, so partners such as Archeops and Klinklang pair well with it. Both also appreciate Healing Wish support, as it can bring puts the former out of Defeatist range if it has been weakened enough and gives the latter a second shot at sweeping the opposing team. Sawk is the best partner for Mesprit, as it threatens Dark- and Steel-type Pokemon that resist Mesprit's STAB moves, making it easier for it to clean late-game,; (ASC) weakens the opposing team thanks to its great wallbreaking potential,; (ASC) and, (AC) combined with Healing Wish support, can take full advantage of Sturdy. Skuntank is also a good partner due to its ability to threaten both Musharna and Mega Audino, both of which are bulky enough to take repeated hits easily from Mesprit. Entry hazard support is very beneficial for Mesprit, as it allows Mesprit to clean late-game with much more ease. Garbodor is an excellent partner, as it sets up hazards against several of Mesprit's answers such as Scyther and Mega Audino. Setup sweepers including Samurott, Shiftry, and Lilligant pair incredibly well with Mesprit, because all of them appreciate Healing Wish support. Swords Dance Mawile in particular is a great partner, as it switches into Scyther and Skuntank easily, (AC) while Mesprit takes care of problematic Pokemon such as Garbodor and Weezing and can give Mawile a second chance at sweeping with Healing Wish.

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

Choice Specs with Trick could also work, but generally Life Orb is the better item, as Mesprit takes full advantage of its coverage by being able to switch between its moves. Due to Mesprit's surprisingly good physical movepool, it can also run a Choice Band set consisting of Zen Headbutt / Knock Off / Fire Punch / U-turn. Physical Choice Scarf can also be used, but it's more prone to being walled by physical walls and has worse coverage. Future Sight is another option to pressure Fighting- and Poison-type Pokemon while Mesprit is not on the field. Power-Up Punch can also be used on non-Choiced physical sets to boost Mesprit's Attack while letting it switch between its coverage moves. Magic Coat can be used to reflect back opposing entry hazards and prevent Taunt from leads such as Stealth Rock Archeops. A dual screens set can also be used, but generally Meowstic is better in this role thanks to Prankster. Sunny Day or Rain Dance can be used on the defensive set if a bulky weather starter that can provide pivot support is needed.

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

**Dark-types**: Pawniard, Skuntank, Shiftry, and Liepard are all good answers to Mesprit, as the former two are able to switch on any move Mesprit has to offer with the exception of Hidden Power Ground, while all of them are capable of revenge killing Mesprit, no matter how fast it is, with Sucker Punch. Skuntank is and Liepard are also able to Pursuit trap Mesprit locked into Psychic.; the same goes for Liepard, which can additionally is also able to Encore Mesprit into an unfavorable move and set up Nasty Plot or cripple Choice Scarf variants greatly with Thunder Wave. (not really necessary changes here but it didn't flow very well imo)

**Bug-types**: Scyther outspeeds all non-Choice Scarf Mesprit, threatens it with STAB U-turn, and, with Eviolite, can even use Mesprit as setup bait if it doesn't have Ice Beam or Thunderbolt. Scyther, however, doesn't appreciate being crippled by Thunder Wave. Pinsir naturally outspeeds Mesprit and hits it with STAB X-Scissor, dealing heavy damage.

**Steel-types**: Klinklang is able to switch into most of Mesprit's attacks bar Hidden Power Ground and can is able to use Mesprit to set up Shift Gear freely. Bulkier Steel-types such as Ferroseed, Metang, and Probopass are generally able to take any move Mesprit has and use it Mesprit to set up Spikes or Stealth Rock or cripple it with Thunder Wave.

**Faster Attackers**: Haunter, Mismagius, and Rotom naturally outspeed Mesprit and threaten it with Shadow Ball, though none of these Pokemon can safely switch in. Mismagius also commonly carries Taunt, which prevents Mesprit from setting up Stealth Rock or attempting to heal a teammate with Healing Wish.

**Bulky Pokemon**: Musharna and Mega Audino are capable of taking almost any hit from Mesprit and, as a result, can use Mesprit to set up Calm Mind with ease. However, Musharna does not appreciate taking Life Orb Mesprit's Calm Mind-boosted Signal Beam. Xatu is able to take most moves from Mesprit with the exception of Ice Beam, prevent Stealth Rock from going up with Magic Bounce, and hit Mesprit with Signal Beam. Malamar is bulky enough to use non-Signal Beam Mesprit to boost with Superpower and can threaten it with STAB Knock Off.
 
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