Murkrow (BW2 Revamp)

Governess

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To-Do List

0. Get this analysis in skeleton form. [✓]

I. Fix any errors pertaining to the content / set(s) of the analysis. [✓]

II. Receive two QC Checks. [✓]

III. Fully write out the analysis after the 2nd QC Check. [ X ]

IV. Receive the final QC Check when the written work has been looked over. [✓]

V. Correct any obvious grammar-prose mistakes before handing it to GP. [✓]

VI. Receive two GP Checks, and have this analysis on-site. [✓]

3/3: | Raseri | ebeast | tennisace |
2/2: | sirndpt | melvni |


[Overview]

<p>With a large non-attacking movepool containing moves such as Calm Mind, Swagger, and FeatherDance to utilize alongside its ability, Prankster, Murkrow can be quite versatile. While it might seem frail at first glance, Eviolite and its access to Roost allow Murkrow to maintain longevity on the field to make its mark. However even with Eviolite, Murkrow is still quite easy to get past, as it takes a lot of damage from the majority of the tier. It faces competition from Liepard, a fellow Prankster user, which has a higher Speed stat to rely on. Mandibuzz, who shares the same typing as Murkrow, also rivals it in terms of bulk and team support.</p>

[SET]
name: Calm Mind
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Roost
move 3: Dark Pulse
move 4: FeatherDance / Substitute
item: Eviolite
ability: Prankster
nature: Bold
evs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD

<p>Blessed with Prankster, access to Roost, and a decent Special Attack, Murkrow can find success as a Calm Mind user. With Eviolite, Murkrow can last longer on the field and find more opportunities to set up. This set is great for dealing with Psychic-types, such as Gardevoir, but it cannot switch into some of their attacks, as it is still a bit frail. Calm Mind is the center point of this set, raising Dark Pulse's power and making Murkrow more specially defensive. Roost allows Murkrow to heal itself in a pinch, and it gets boosted priority thanks to Prankster. FeatherDance allows Murkrow to deal with the majority of physical attackers in the tier, most notably Sawk, by crippling them. Calm Mind and FeatherDance combine very well to grant Murkrow more chances to force switches and set up. However, Substitute can be used to avoid status conditions that can cripple Murkrow.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>248 HP EVs allow Murkrow to switch into Stealth Rock four times at full HP. 252 Defense EVs and a Bold nature balance out Murkrow's defenses with Calm Mind. Prankster is key to in this set, as it gives Murkrow a boost in priority when using non-attacking moves, which form the majority here. There are not many alternative move selections for this set; the only notable one would be Hidden Power Flying, which allows Murkrow to deal with Fighting-types. However, Dark Pulse offers more power.</p>

<p>If Murkrow isn't using Substitute, status conditions can really hinder its sweeping capabilities. Clerics such as Lickilicky, Musharna, and Vileplume are good partners, as they can tank attacks that Murkrow cannot take. Musharna in particular can also deal with Fighting-types that Murkrow cannot really harm. Sawk is a good ally, as it can deal with Steel-, Rock-, and opposing Dark-types Murkrow can't scratch. Sawk also has nice synergy with Musharna, which can work well in Murkrow's favor. While Jynx cannot switch into Dark Pulse, it can quickly dispose of Murkrow if it hasn't begun setting up Calm Mind; Metang and Choice Scarf Charizard can defeat Jynx. Pokemon that can phaze Murkrow, such as Serperior and Eelektross, can prevent it from setting up successfully. Dragonair is a good counter to Eelektross, and Sap Sipper Miltank and Swellow fare well against Serperior. Miltank also can offer Heal Bell support to Murkrow. Toxic Spikes support is appreciated, as it can weaken the adversary, making it much easier for Murkrow to handle. Garbodor and Scolipede are good partners in that department.</p>

[SET]
name: SubSwagger
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Swagger
move 3: Roost
move 4: Foul Play
item: Eviolite
ability: Prankster
nature: Bold
evs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD
ivs: 0 Atk

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>This set relies heavily on luck, but it can be very frustrating to face and often forces lots of switches. The main strategy is to get behind a Substitute, then cripple the opponent with Swagger. While the opponent is struggling to attack, Murkrow can use the Attack boost from Swagger against them with Foul Play, and it can heal itself with Roost when necessary. Substitute allows Murkrow to avoid status and protect itself from weak attacks, while also being used to fish for confusion; potentially getting a Substitute up for free. Swagger and Foul Play are the key aspects of the set. Swagger is a high-risk high-reward type of move, as if it succeeds in making the target hit itself in confusion, Foul Play&mdash;which does damage based off the opponent's Attack stat&mdash;will inflict massive damage. However, if the opponent fails to succumb, Murkrow might take a lot of damage. Roost is the final move of the set, healing Murkrow when necessary.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>Eviolite and Prankster are mandatory for this set; those two traits are what make Murkrow worth using. 248 HP allows Murkrow to switch into Stealth Rock four times at full HP. Thunder Wave can be used to cripple the opponent further, but there isn't enough space in Murkrow's moveset for it.</p>

<p>Because this set is luck-based and self-reliant, Murkrow does not require much support. Murkrow forces a lot of switches with this set, so having entry hazards on the field can severely weaken the foe. Carracosta and Scolipede are good examples of entry hazard setters to use with Murkrow. In addition, Murkrow's main job is to weaken the opponent for its teammates, so sweepers who can clean up the remaining opposition, such as Charizard, Jynx, and Ludicolo, make good partners. Taunt can really hinder Murkrow's usefulness if it hits, so be aware of its users in general; there aren't any specific partners to have to defeat them. Finally, Liepard can be used with Murkrow if you want to annoy the opponent even more, as it plays a very similar role to Murkrow.</p>

[Other Options]

<p>With Mean Look, Perish Song, and Prankster, Murkrow can play the role of a perish trapper to net a free KO against a Pokemon or two. However, opponents will often switch in Pokemon that can handle Murkrow before Mean Look can even be used, so it will often fail. Taunt alongside Prankster and Roost can make Murkrow a good stallbreaker, however it faces heavy competition with Mandibuzz, who has superior bulk and is generally fast enough to outspeed walls regardless. A great base 91 Speed, along with powerful offensive moves such as Brave Bird, Heat Wave, and Sucker Punch, gives Murkrow the option of running a successful Life Orb set. However, Murkrow is very frail without an Eviolite and thus easy to KO. Confuse Ray is another move to consider that can cripple the opponent further, but Murkrow rarely finds the space to run it. With a weather rock, Murkrow can be a useful weather inducer, but without Eviolite, it is KOed with ease, and there are many other Pokemon who can fulfill the role better than Murkrow could. Tailwind can be used to further support the team through Speed, but Murkrow has difficulty fitting it into a moveset. A set centered around FeatherDance can be used to cripple physical attackers, but in most cases, using both Calm Mind and FeatherDance produces the best results, as it gives Murkrow better overall defenses. While Murkrow has many other options to consider, very few of them are worth deviating from its standard sets.</p>

[Checks and Counters]

<p>Taunt users can ruin Murkrow, as it often relies on non-attacking moves, so Pokemon such as Samurott and Skuntank are good checks. Even with Eviolite, Murkrow is still rather frail, so Pokemon with powerful or super effective moves to use against it, such as Rotom-F, Eelektross, and Piloswine, are good as well. Carracosta, Gigalith, and Golem also fit into this category, as they can tank Murkrow's hits and KO it with their Rock-type STAB moves. Golem in particular can also break Murkrow's Substitutes with Rock Blast. Specially bulky Pokemon, such as Flareon and Lickilicky, are good counters to the Calm Mind set, as Murkrow cannot do a thing to them, even with Calm Mind boosts. However if Flareon and Lickilicky lack Roar and Dragon Tail, respectively, Murkrow has the ability to set up on them without much trouble. In Lickilicky's case, if Murkrow has Substitute it can avoid being phazed by Dragon Tail. It is difficult to inflict status onto Murkrow due to Prankster and Substitute, and setting up against it or attacking it might be challenging because of its plethora of non-attacking moves. However, Murkrow cannot switch into very many attacks, so hitting it on the switch is a great tactic to defeat it.</p>


Skeleton said:
[Overview]
  • Access to Prankster allows Murkrow to fully utilize its large range of non-attacking moves, specifically Calm Mind and FeatherDance.
  • Eviolite - raises its mediocre defenses to usable heights.
  • Access to recovery move in Roost.
  • Even with Eviolite, Murkrow is still easy to get past, as it takes a lot of damage from the majority of the Pokemon in the tier and having a SR weakness doesn't help.
  • Subpar defensive typing; it's weak to the common Ice- and Rock-type attacks, as well as taking a lot of damage from Fighting-types.
  • Taunt weak. Without Prankster's priority, it has to rely on its less-than-par Speed to threaten anyone.
  • Can work well on your team if it is used properly and with caution.

[SET]
name: Calm Mind
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Roost
move 3: Dark Pulse
move 4: FeatherDance / Substitute
item: Eviolite
ability: Prankster
nature: Bold
evs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD

[SET COMMENTS]
  • First thing I've ever written in C&C so LGI ^-^
  • With Prankster and recovery, Murkrow can make use of its decent Special Attack with CM.
  • With Eviolite, Murkrow has a much easier time setting up CM and lasting longer.
  • Can deal with Psychic-types, such as Gardevoir, much easier, but cannot switch in against them.
  • It can come in whenever it gets a free opportunity to begin setting up using Calm Mind and FeatherDance to make it harder for Murkrow to be weakened.
  • CM - setup move, allows Murkrow to hit harder with Dark Pulse while resisting special attacks much easier.
  • Roost - allows Murkrow to heal itself in a pinch, which almost always goes first thanks to Prankster.
  • Dark Pulse - STAB move, increases power with every CM boost.
  • FeatherDance is great for dealing with Fighting-types, such as Sawk, as well as many physical attackers in general. Not only does it cripple the opponent and may force a switch, it works well with CM, covering its defenses we'll while making it easier for Murkrow to set up. However, Substitute can be used to avoid status conditions.

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
  • Eviolite - vital to this set, allows Murkrow to tank hits for an extended amount of time.
  • 248 HP EVs - SR number, allows Murkrow to switch into Stealth Rock four times. 252 Defense EVs + Bold nature is for physical bulk, balanced out with potential Calm Mind boosts.
  • Prankster is a key factor to this set as well, as it gives priority to almost all of Murkrow's attacks.
  • Not many alternative move options for Murkrow, but HP Flying can be used as a alternate STAB move against Fighting-types. However, in the long run, it is not as strong as Dark Pulse.
  • Clerics: If Murkrow isn't using Substitute, status conditions can really hinder its sweeping capabilities. Lickilicky, Vileplume, and Musharna can fit that role well, as they are also bulky enough to tank hits Murkrow cannot survive. Musharna in particular can handle Fighting-types that threaten Murkrow, such as Primeape and Sawk. Additionally, Lickilicky does well against Zangoose and Braviary, two Pokemon that can severely injure Murkrow.
  • Sawk can deal with Rock-, Steel-, and opposing Dark-types that Murkrow cannot touch. It also has nice synergy with Musharna.
  • While Jynx cannot switch into a Dark Pulse, it can easily dispose of Murkrow if it hasn't started setting up Calm Mind. Metang and Choice Scarf Charizard can defeat Jynx before it becomes an issue.
  • Pokemon that can phaze Murkrow, such as Eelektross and Serperior, can stop Murkrow before it can set up CM. Dragonair works well to handle Eelektross while Sap Sipper Miltank and Swellow can nail Serperior. Miltank also offers Heal Bell support for Murkrow.
  • Toxic Spikes support is great for weakening the adversary before / while Murkrow is on the field. Garbodor and Scolipede are both good selections for Toxic Spikes users.

[SET]
name: SubSwagger
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Swagger
move 3: Roost
move 4: Foul Play
item: Eviolite
ability: Prankster
nature: Bold
evs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD
ivs: 0 Atk

[SET COMMENTS]
  • Haxy set that relies heavily on luck.
  • Uses Prankster to Murkrow's advantage, as Murkrow will nearly always go first when using a non-attacking move.
  • The strategy is to get behind a Substitute safely, then use Swagger to raise the opponent's Attack stat and inflict confusion. While the foe struggles to attack, Murkrow can use Swagger's Attack boost against the opponent with Foul Play and heal itself with Roost.
  • Because of this strategy, Murkow can force a lot of switches,
  • Substitute - allows Murkrow to protect itself against status while giving it a temporary shield.
  • Swagger + Foul Play: Swagger is a pretty risky move; if the opponent succeeds in hitting Murkrow, it can severely harm it. However, the Attack boost Swagger offers is what makes Foul Play so strong, as it turns the adversary's Attack boost against it for additional power.
  • Roost - allows Murkrow to last longer throughout the match.

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
  • Eviolite - vital for Murkrow, as it raises its defenses to useable heights.
  • Prankster - mandatory ability.
  • 248 HP EVs allows Murkrow to switch into SR four times at full HP. The defensive EVs + Bold raise Murkrow's defenses to physical attacks easier. 0 IVs in Attack allow Murkrow to minimize confusion and opposing Foul Play damage.
  • T-Wave - can cripple the opponent even further, but Murkrow doesn't really have a space for it in its set.
  • Pretty luck-based self-reliant, so not a lot of partners are truly recommended for this set.
  • Since Murkrow will force a lot of switches, having entry hazards on the field would be benefiticial. Carracosta and Scolipede are examples of entry hazard-setting Pokemon that are good partners to Murkow.
  • Taunt users - the majority of them can inflict Murkrow with Taunt easily, so Murkrow should be wary of those users.
  • Liepard - great partner to use when you wish to annoy the opponent further with Prankster.
  • Murkrow is really there to weaken the opponent from constant switching and Foul Play, so having sweepers who are ready to clean up the mess (Charizard, Jynx, Ludicolo, etc) are good partners.

[Other Options]
  • Perish Trapper - With Mean Look, Perish Trap, and Prankster, Murkrow can run a gimmicky Perish Trapper set to score a couple of kills. However, with many Pokemon in the tier able to switch into Murkrow before it can trap them with Mean Look, so it oftentimes fail.
  • Life Orb - Along with having a great base 91 Speed, Murkrow has plenty of attacks to make use of a Life Orb set, such as Brave Bird, Heat Wave, and Sucker Punch. Its strength with a Life Orb also makes this a valid option; however, Murkrow is rather frail without an Eviolite, and is thus very easy to defeat.
  • Confuse Ray and Thunder Wave can be used as a parafusion combination to cripple (setup) opponents, such as Gorebyss.
  • Can act as a weather inducer as well with Prankster and the respective weather rock, but without the Eviolite, Murkrow can be KOed with ease.
  • Tailwind - further support its teammates.
  • A set solely for FeatherDance can be used to allow Murkrow to function as a physical wall. However, with FeatherDance being used in the Calm Mind set with Calm Mind, Murkrow oftentimes has better overall defenses when both are used together, not just one alone.
  • While Murkrow has many options to choose from, most of them aren't as successful as its standard CM set.

[Checks and Counters]
  • Taunt - completely ruins Murkrow, so Pokemon who can utilize it against Murkrow (Serperior, Skuntank) are good checks against it.
  • Even with Eviolite, Murkrow still has weak defenses, so Pokemon who have super effective attacks against it (Rotom-F, Eelektross, Piloswine, Jynx- cant switch into Murkrow) are great users against it. Other powerful Pokemon, such as CB Sawk and Choice Specs Charizard, can easily weaken Murkrow as well.
  • Carracosta, Gigalith, and Golem are also good Pokemon to counter Murkrow; Golem in particular can use Rock Blast to break Murkrow's Substitute (if it has it). They can also use Stealth Rock, but because of priority Roost, it isn't much of a threat to Murkrow.
  • Specially bulky Pokemon Murkrow cannot really touch (Lickilicky, Flareon) are also good users against Murkrow.
  • It is difficult to inflict status conditions on Murkrow due to a priority Substitute, and setting up can be rather challenging due to FeatherDance and Calm Mind. However, Murkrow cannot switch into a variety of attacks, so hitting it on the switch is a great tactic to weakening it.
 
Last edited by a moderator:

Governess

A Beautiful Blossom Waiting to Bloom
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Ok, I can't change the topic title, but I have gotten this in skeleton form; it's now ready to be looked over by QC! :)
 

tennisace

not quite too old for this, apparently
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Time for a patented "tennisace looks at this but doesnt stamp it"

-I really really really really really hate swagger... but Prankster Swagger + STAB Foul Play probably deserves a set. I don't know what the optimal set would be though, either Eviolite + Roost / Swagger / Foul Play / TWave (vulnerable to toxic) or Leftovers + Sub / Swagger / Foul Play / Twave (I wouldn't call it "bulky"). By the numbers, looks like the Sub set is more common.

-CM Feather Dance is cool and all but it's kinda hard to set up. It should prolly be listed under the swagger set.
 

Governess

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Ok, thank you tennisace. Waiting for other fellow QC's input on the set before it is official !_!
 
some variant of the set tennisace posted has to be on site. Personally I would want sub+roost instead of either of those. But all three have some viability.

What Murkrow has over Liepard is recovery, so I think the set should be:

Substitute / Swagger / Roost / Foul Play @ eviolite

again im not really sure on what the optimal set is, but the set I have is my favourite. QC will need to discuss this though!
 

Governess

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Ok, thank you, Raseri. I'll have a placeholder set above the CM set for whatever set you guys decide!
 

ebeast

she's probably sexting nprtprt
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Raseri's set works, with Thunder Wave in AC. I definitely think that CM should be before Swagger, it is way more consistent and Swagger is completely luck based.
 

Governess

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Thank you, Raseri and ebeast. Once I've used the set a bit more, I'll add to this.
 

Governess

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(Sorry for double posting) I have added the Swagger set ebeast + Raseri have mentioned into the analysis! :)
 

Punchshroom

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Wait, why does the SwagKrow have any Attack EVs at all? It should be absolute minimum (Bold, 0 Atk EVs and IVs) to minimize damage from self-confusion and opposing Foul Plays.
 

Governess

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My apologies; I'll make the change on it right away. Never used this kind of Murkrow before, so I had no idea what EV spread to use. Nonetheless, I'll fix it up. ^^;
 

Governess

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(Sorry for double posting) but bumping this, as I have added the Swagger set quite a while ago. May it be looked over by QC?
 
hp flying AC in first set. Not as good as dark pulse now but it can sweep different things.

Also mention Liepard as a partner if you really want to annoy people. Do add it though, the more the merrier! (for swag set)

Also I like the name SubSwagger for it, but idk what everyone else thinks

1/3 when these are added
 

Governess

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Thank you, Raseri. I added the changed and implemented the check. One more check for it to be written! :)
 

ebeast

she's probably sexting nprtprt
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[Overview]
Remove the 4th point, it's not really that relevant when it's mainly a set up Pokemon anyways.

[Set Comments] (CM)
Murkrow isn't a late-game sweeper kind of Pokemon, it can come in whenever it gets a free opportunity to and begin to set up using Calm Mind and Feather Dance to make it harder for it to be broken down. In your last point to say Substitute avoids Taunt; it actually does not.

[Additional Comments] (CM)
There is a bad habit of giving every SR weak mon a recommendation for Spin support in AC. There really is not need for it as Murkrow is self sufficient; remove the point. Add that Sawk can also prevent Stealth Rock from being set up due to Mold Breaker.

[Set Comments] (SubSwagger)
There is no real prediction needed, the set relies solely on luck.

[Additional Comments] (SubSwagger)
Again no need to mention spinners.

QC Approved 2/3
 

Governess

A Beautiful Blossom Waiting to Bloom
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Thank you, ebeast, and I will try to break that habit from now on. I'll get this written out as soon as I can.
 
"Life Orb - Murkrow has plenty of attacks to make use of a Life Orb set, such as Brave Bird, Heat Wave, and Shadow Ball. However, Murkrow is rather frail without an Eviolite, and is thus very easy to defeat."

Mention Sucker Punch too and take out Shadow Ball, and give the set a bit more credit because it is pretty strong and Murkrow is pretty fast (91 base speed is hella good). Life Orb Sucker Punches and Brave Birds hit a lot of things hard in the meta but dont oversell it too much tho.
 

Governess

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Thank you, Annoyer. I have removed Shadow Ball, added Sucker Punch, and gave the set more credit for its usefulness. :)
 

Governess

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(Sorry for double posting) I have fully written this out, so it is ready for a final look-at from QC! :)
 
[Overview]

<p>Murkrow can utilize its large non-attacking movepool with its ability, Prankster. imo changing the wording slightly to something like 'Murkrow has a large non-attacking movepool to utilize alongside its ability, Prankster' might get your point across more effectively? with your current wording - while it's grammatically correct, i'm not really sure what point you're trying to make, if you get what i mean. With moves such as Calm Mind, Swagger, and FeatherDance, Murkrow can be difficult to take down, as Prankster's boost in priority allows it to take advantage of those moves. While it might seem frail at first glance, its access to Eviolite and Roost allow Murkrow to maintain longevity on the field to make its mark. However, even with Eviolite, Murkrow is still quite easy to get past, as it takes a lot of damage from the majority of the tier. these two sentences could also be better worded to get more directly to the point, imo: 'eviolite and roost give it more staying power than you might expect given its low base stats, but this is often still not enough; it takes a lot of damage from the majority of the tier, especially (any examples in particular?)' It faces competition from Liepard, a fellow Prankster user, as it which has a higher Speed stat to rely on. Mandibuzz, sharing who shares the same typing as Murkrow, also rivals it in terms of bulk and team support.</p>

[SET]
name: Calm Mind
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Roost
move 3: Dark Pulse
move 4: FeatherDance / Substitute
item: Eviolite
ability: Prankster
nature: Bold
evs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD

<p>Blessed with Prankster, access to Roost, and a decent Special Attack, Murkrow can find success as a Calm Mind user. With Eviolite, Murkrow can last longer on the field and find more opportunities to set up. This set is great for dealing deals much more easily with Psychic-types, such as Gardevoir, much easier, but it cannot switch into some of their attacks, as Murkrow is still a bit frail. Calm Mind is the center point of this set, raising Dark Pulse's power and making Murkrow more specially defensive. Roost allows Murkrow to heal itself in a pinch, and it gets boosted priority thanks to Prankster. FeatherDance allows Murkrow to deal with the majority of physical attackers in the tier, specifically most notably Sawk, by crippling them. When it's used with Calm Mind, they cover each other very well and Calm Mind and FeatherDance combine very well to grant Murkrow more chances to force switches and set up. just a note that you swapped subjects midsentence in the previous bit - you have 'featherdance' as the subject in the bit 'When it's used with Calm Mind' and then started talking about 'they', which, yeah, don't do that :p! However, Substitute can be used to avoid status conditions that can cripple Murkrow.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>248 HP EVs allow Murkrow to switch into Stealth Rock four times at full HP. 252 Defense EVs and a Bold nature balance out Murkrow's defenses with Calm Mind. Prankster is the key factor in this set, as it gives Murkrow a boost in priority when using non-attacking moves, which is form the majority of the set. There are not many alternative move selections for this set; the only notable one would be Hidden Power Flying, which allows Murkrow to deal with Fighting-types. However, in the long run, Dark Pulse offers more power to Murkrow.</p>

<p>If Murkrow isn't using Substitute, status conditions can really hinder its sweeping capabilities. Clerics such as Lickilicky, Musharna, and Vileplume are good partners, as they can tank attacks that Murkrow cannot take. Musharna in particular can also deal with Fighting-types that Murkrow cannot really harm. Sawk is a good ally, as it can deal with Steel-, Rock, and opposing Dark-types Murkrow can't scar. Sawk also has nice synergy with Musharna, which can work well in Murkrow's favor. While Jynx cannot switch into Dark Pulse, it can quickly dispose of Murkrow if it hasn't begun setting up Calm Mind; Metang and Choice Scarf Charizard can defeat Jynx. Pokemon that can phaze Murkrow, such as Serperior and Eelektross, can prevent it from setting up successfully. Dragonair is a good counter to Eelektross, and Sap Sipper Miltank and Swellow fare well against Serperior. Miltank also can offer Heal Bell support to Murkrow. Toxic Spikes support is appreciated, as it can weaken the adversary, making it much easier for Murkrow to handle. Garbodor and Scolipede are good partners in that department.</p>

[SET]
name: SubSwagger
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Swagger
move 3: Roost
move 4: Foul Play
item: Eviolite
ability: Prankster
nature: Bold
evs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD
ivs: 0 Atk

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>This set relies heavily on luck, but it can be very frustrating to face if it does reign successful , and often forces lots of switches moved this bit up from below. Prankster is used to Murkrow's advantage, as it can nearly always go first when using a non-attacking move. i would remove that bit tbh, i think that it's 'general knowledge' enough, and you have mentioned it enough throughout the entire analysis as well - your call, though The main strategy is to get behind a Substitute, then cripple the opponent with Swagger. While the opponent is struggling to attack, Murkrow can use the Attack boost from Swagger against them with Foul Play, and it can heal itself with Roost when necessary. Because of this tactic, this variant of Murkrow can force a lot of switches on the opposition. Substitute allows Murkrow to avoid status while protecting itself from weak attacks. Swagger and Foul Play are the key aspects of the set.(period) Swagger is a risk vs reward high-risk-high-reward type of move;(semicolon) if it succeeds in confusing the target, Foul Playwhich gains power when the opponent had a high Attack which does damage based off the opponent's Attack stat—will inflict massive damage. However, if the opponent fails to succumb to Swagger's confusion, Murkrow can suffer might take a lot of damage as a result. Roost is the final move of the set, healing Murkrow when necessary.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>Eviolite and Prankster are mandatory for this set; those two traits are what makes Murkrow worth using. 248 HP allows Murkrow to switch into Stealth Rock four times at full HP. 252 Defense EVs with a Bold nature maximizes Murkrow's Defense. 0 Attack IVs raise Foul Play's strength; the weaker Murkrow's Attack stat is in comparison to the opponent, the stronger Foul Play gets noooooooot really, afaik…? http://smogon.com/bw/moves/foul_play. Thunder Wave can be used to cripple the opponent further, but it doesn't have enough space in the moveset to add it in there isn't enough space in Murkrow's moveset for it.</p>

<p>Because this set is luck-based and self-reliant, Murkrow does not require many suggested partners to use alongside it much support. Murkrow forces a lot of switches with this set, so having entry hazards on the field can severely weaken the foe. Carracosta and Scolipede are good examples of entry hazard setters to use with Murkrow. In addition, Murkrow's main job is to weaken the opponent for its teammates, so sweepers who can clean up the remaining of the opposition, such as Charizard, Jynx, and Ludicolo, make good partners. Taunt can really hinder Murkrow's usefulness if it hits, so be aware of Taunt users in general; there aren't any specific partners to have to defeat them maybe list a few common taunt users and provide counters/ good switch-ins to them?. Finally, Liepard can be used with Murkrow if you want to annoy the opponent even more, as Liepard plays a very similar role to Murkrow.</p>

[Other Options]

<p>With Mean Look, Perish Trap Song, and Prankster, Murkrow can play the role of a Perish Trapper to net a free KO against a Pokemon or two. However, many Pokemon in the tier can switch into Murkrow before Mean Look can even be used, so it oftentimes will often fail. A great base 91 Speed, along with powerful offensive moves such as Brave Bird, Heat Wave, and Sucker Punch, gives Murkrow the option of running a successful Life Orb set. However, Murkrow is very frail without an Eviolite and thus easy to KO. Confuse Ray is another move to consider that can cripple the opponent further, but it cannot find a space in Murkrow's movesets Murkrow rarely finds the space to run it. With a weather rock, Murkrow can be a useful weather inducer, but without Eviolite, Murkrow is KOed with ease, and there are many other Pokemon who can fulfill the role better than Murkrow can. Tailwind can be used to further support the team through Speed, but Murkrow has difficulty fitting it into a moveset. A set solely consisting of FeatherDance as in, just the one move??? i don't think so, right xD do you mean something more along the lines of 'a physically defensive set centered around featherdance'? can be used to cripple physical attackers, but in most cases, using both Calm Mind and FeatherDance produce the are required for best results, as it gives Murkrow better overall defenses. While Murkrow has many other options to consider, very few of them are worth drifting deviating from its standard sets.</p>

[Checks and Counters]

<p>Taunt users can ruin Murkrow, as it often relies on non-attacking moves, so Pokemon such as Samurott and Skuntank are good checks. Even with Eviolite, Murkrow is still rather frail, so Pokemon with powerful or super effective moves to use against Murkrow, such as Rotom-F, Eelektross, and Piloswine, are good to use against Murkrow as well. Carracosta, Gigalith, and Golem also fit into this category, as they can tank Murkrow's hits and KO it with their Rock-type STAB moves. Golem in particular can also break Murkrow's Substitutes with Rock Blast. Specially bulky Pokemon, such as Flareon and Lickilicky, are good counters to the Calm Mind set, as Murkrow cannot do a thing to them, even with Calm Mind boosts. It is difficult to inflict status onto Murkrow due to Prankster and Substitute, and setting up against it or attacking it might seem challenging because of its plethora of non-attacking moves that can weaken you. However, Murkrow cannot switch into a variety of very many attacks, so hitting it on the switch is a great tactic to defeat Murkrow.</p>
gp 1/2
 
GP check. Good job on writing this.
Additions in Blue
Subtractions in Red
Comments in Purple
[Overview]

<p>Murkrow has With a large non-attacking movepool containing moves such as Calm Mind, Swagger, and FeatherDance to utilize alongside its ability, Prankster. With moves such as Calm Mind, Swagger, and FeatherDance, Murkrow can be difficult to take down, as Prankster's boost in priority allows it to take advantage of those moves (I'm fusing these two sentences because they seemed a bit redundant but feel free to deal with this differently than I did if you don't like my change). While it might seem frail at first glance, its access to Eviolite and its access to Roost allow Murkrow to maintain longevity on the field to make its mark. However, (remove comma) even with Eviolite, Murkrow is still quite easy to get past, as it takes a lot of damage from the majority of the tier. It faces competition from Liepard, a fellow Prankster user, which has a higher Speed stat to rely on. Mandibuzz, who shares the same typing as Murkrow, also rivals it in terms of bulk and team support.</p>

[SET]
name: Calm Mind
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Roost
move 3: Dark Pulse
move 4: FeatherDance / Substitute
item: Eviolite
ability: Prankster
nature: Bold
evs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD

<p>Blessed with Prankster, access to Roost, and a decent Special Attack, Murkrow can find success as a Calm Mind user. With Eviolite, Murkrow can last longer on the field and find more opportunities to set up. This set is great for dealing with Psychic-types, such as Gardevoir, much easier, but it cannot switch into some of their attacks, as Murkrow it is still a bit frail. Calm Mind is the center point of this set, raising Dark Pulse's power and making Murkrow more specially defensive. Roost allows Murkrow to heal itself in a pinch, and it gets boosted priority thanks to Prankster. FeatherDance allows Murkrow to deal with the majority of physical attackers in the tier, most notably Sawk, by crippling them. Calm Mind and FeatherDance combine very well to grant Murkrow more chances to force switches and set up. However, Substitute can be used to avoid status conditions that can cripple Murkrow.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>248 HP EVs allow Murkrow to switch into Stealth Rock four times at full HP. 252 Defense EVs and a Bold nature balance out Murkrow's defenses with Calm Mind. Prankster is the key factor in key to this set, as it gives Murkrow a boost in priority when using non-attacking moves, which form the majority of the set here (this is optional; it just seemed a little redundant to say set twice here, but you can leave it how you have it or make a different change if you like). There are not many alternative move selections for this set; the only notable one would be Hidden Power Flying, which allows Murkrow to deal with Fighting-types. However, Dark Pulse offers more power.</p>

<p>If Murkrow isn't using Substitute, status conditions can really hinder its sweeping capabilities. Clerics such as Lickilicky, Musharna, and Vileplume are good partners, as they can tank attacks that Murkrow cannot take. Musharna in particular can also deal with Fighting-types that Murkrow cannot really harm. Sawk is a good ally, as it can deal with Steel-, Rock Rock-, and opposing Dark-types Murkrow can't scar. Sawk also has nice synergy with Musharna, which can work well in Murkrow's favor. While Jynx cannot switch into Dark Pulse, it can quickly dispose of Murkrow if it hasn't begun setting up Calm Mind; Metang and Choice Scarf Charizard can defeat Jynx. Pokemon that can phaze Murkrow, such as Serperior and Eelektross, can prevent it from setting up successfully. Dragonair is a good counter to Eelektross, and Sap Sipper Miltank and Swellow fare well against Serperior. Miltank also can offer Heal Bell support to Murkrow. Toxic Spikes support is appreciated, as it can weaken the adversary, making it much easier for Murkrow to handle. Garbodor and Scolipede are good partners in that department.</p>

[SET]
name: SubSwagger
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Swagger
move 3: Roost
move 4: Foul Play
item: Eviolite
ability: Prankster
nature: Bold
evs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD
ivs: 0 Atk

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>This set relies heavily on luck, but it can be very frustrating to face, (remove comma) and often forces lots of switches. The main strategy is to get behind a Substitute, then cripple the opponent with Swagger. While the opponent is struggling to attack, Murkrow can use the Attack boost from Swagger against them with Foul Play, and it can heal itself with Roost when necessary. Substitute allows Murkrow to avoid status while protecting and protect itself from weak attacks. Swagger and Foul Play are the key aspects of the set. Swagger is a high-risk-high-reward high-risk high-reward type of move, as if it succeeds in confusing making the target hit itself in confusion, Foul Play&mdash;which does damage based off the opponent's Attack stat&mdash;will inflict massive damage. However, if the opponent fails to succumb to Swagger's confusion, Murkrow might take a lot of damage. Roost is the final move of the set, healing Murkrow when necessary.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>Eviolite and Prankster are mandatory for this set; those two traits are what makes make Murkrow worth using. 248 HP allows Murkrow to switch into Stealth Rock four times at full HP. 252 Defense EVs with a Bold nature maximizes Murkrow's Defense. (this is optional; it seems unnecessary to say to me unless you're going to say something specific, but you can leave it in if you want to) Thunder Wave can be used to cripple the opponent further, but there generally isn't enough space in Murkrow's moveset for it.</p>

<p>Because this set is luck-based and self-reliant, Murkrow does not require much support. Murkrow forces a lot of switches with this set, so having entry hazards on the field can severely weaken the foe. Carracosta and Scolipede are good examples of entry hazard setters to use with Murkrow. In addition, Murkrow's main job is to weaken the opponent for its teammates, so sweepers who can clean up the remaining of the opposition (change this to either 'the remaining opposition' or the remainder of the opposition'), such as Charizard, Jynx, and Ludicolo, make good partners. Taunt can really hinder Murkrow's usefulness if it hits, so be aware of Taunt its users in general; there aren't any specific partners to have to defeat them. Finally, Liepard can be used with Murkrow if you want to annoy the opponent even more, as Liepard it plays a very similar role to Murkrow.</p>

[Other Options]

<p>With Mean Look, Perish Song, and Prankster, Murkrow can play the role of a Perish Trapper perish trapper (I'm pretty sure (not 100% though) this should be lower case because it's a set name and only includes part of the name of the move) to net a free KO against a Pokemon or two. However, many Pokemon in the tier can switch into Murkrow opponents will often switch in Pokemon that can handle Murkrow before Mean Look can even be used, so it will often fail. A great base 91 Speed, along with powerful offensive moves such as Brave Bird, Heat Wave, and Sucker Punch, gives Murkrow the option of running a successful Life Orb set. However, Murkrow is very frail without an Eviolite and thus easy to KO. Confuse Ray is another move to consider that can cripple the opponent further, but Murkrow rarely finds the space to run it. With a weather rock, Murkrow can be a useful weather inducer, but without Eviolite, Murkrow it is KOed with ease, and there are many other Pokemon who can fulfill the role better than Murkrow could. Tailwind can be used to further support the team through speed Speed, but Murkrow has difficulty fitting it into a moveset. A set centered around FeatherDance can be used to cripple physical attackers, but in most cases, using both Calm Mind and FeatherDance produce produces the best results, as it gives Murkrow better overall defenses. While Murkrow has many other options to consider, very few of them are worth deviating from its standard sets.</p>

[Checks and Counters]

<p>Taunt users can ruin Murkrow, as it often relies on non-attacking moves, so Pokemon such as Samurott and Skuntank are good checks. Even with Eviolite, Murkrow is still rather frail, so Pokemon with powerful or super effective moves to use against Murkrow it, such as Rotom-F, Eelektross, and Piloswine, are good to use against Murkrow (if you want to phrase this differently feel free, but you used the expression 'to use against Murkrow' twice in one sentence and it seemed a little redundant) as well. Carracosta, Gigalith, and Golem also fit into this category, as they can tank Murkrow's hits and KO it with their Rock-type STAB moves. Golem in particular can also break Murkrow's Substitutes with Rock Blast. Specially bulky Pokemon, such as Flareon and Lickilicky, are good counters to the Calm Mind set, as Murkrow cannot do a thing to them, even with Calm Mind boosts. It is difficult to inflict status onto Murkrow due to Prankster and Substitute, and setting up against it or attacking it might seem be challenging because of its plethora of non-attacking moves. However, Murkrow cannot switch into very many attacks, so hitting it on the switch is a great tactic to defeat Murkrow it.</p>


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