OU ORAS OU Good Cores (Outdated)

[Jaroda]

Where are the sets?

Sorry they escaped me at the time.
Scizor @ Scizorite
Ability Technician
248 HP / 44 Atk / 16 Def / 200 SpD
Impish Nature
- Bullet Punch
- Roost
- Swords Dance
- U-Turn

Azumarill @ Choice Band
Ability Huge Power
172 HP / 252 Atk / 84 Spe
- Aqua Jeft
- Play Rough
- Knock Off
- Waterfall/Superpower

Hydreigon @ Leftovers
Ability Levitate
240 HP / 216 SpA / 52 Spe
Modest Nature
- Dark Pulse
- Roost
- Taunt
- Focus Blast/U-Turn

So yeah, basically, Hydreigon acts as a fat annoying Taunt maniac that can switch to either Scizor or Azumarill. Scizor threatens Gardevoir, Terrakion and Diancie, and Azumarill is good against the Latis, Lopunny and Keldeo. Either Azumarill should run Superpower or Hydreigon runs Focus Blast over U-Turn for really helping with certain steel nuisances. Otherwise if you'll be running just Dark Pulse with U-turn than I'd sacrifice a lot of the SpA power into better defense EVs.

 

[Fugly2]

Offensive Core
Weavile+M-Scizor Swords Dance Spam

Sets:

Hide

Weavile @ Life Orb
Ability: Pressure
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Knock Off
- Icicle Crash
- Ice Shard
- Swords Dance

Scizor-Mega @ Scizorite
Ability: Light Metal
EVs: 248 HP / 16 Atk / 60 Def / 92 SpD / 92 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Bullet Punch
- U-turn
- Roost
- Swords Dance

Basically what this core does best is weakening each other's checks for the other to sweep, or baiting in certain pokemon that give the other a chance to set up and do massive damage. For example, Scizor can U-turn on a garchomp or lando-t to bring in Weavile, forcing them out and giving you a free Swords Dance. The M-scizor set allows you to switch in on a draco-meteor from a latios and still live the -2 HP fire after rocks.

This team can't handle steel-types and keldeo that well(however weavile can weaken a keldeo for a scizor to kill with +2 bullet punch), so finding a partner that helps dealing with them is beneficial.

 

[asdfghjklohhnhn]

+

+

Offensive

importable

Azumarill @ Sitrus Berry
Ability: Huge Power
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 4 SpD
Adamant Nature
- Belly Drum
- Aqua Jet
- Play Rough
- Knock Off

Heatran @ Air Balloon
Ability: Flash Fire
EVs: 248 HP / 252 SpA / 8 SpD
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Stealth Rock
- Earth Power
- Taunt
- Magma Storm

Venusaur @ Venusaurite
Ability: Chlorophyll
EVs: 232 HP / 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 20 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk / 30 SpA / 30 Spe
- Giga Drain
- Sludge Bomb
- Hidden Power [Fire]
- Synthesis

description

To start off, lead with Heatran to get Rocks out. If the opponent puts out a water or ground type, venusaur should be used as a switchin. Just because it is an offensive set does not mean it can't take hits. Heatran has Taunt to stop opposing Venusaur-Megas from using synthesis. I think Belly Drum Azumarill can definitely determine the game if the opponent is not prepared. It needs good hp left to use belly drum so do not switchin to it unless one of your other Pokemon just fainted or volturn.

This Core works well with these following Pokemon:
Landorus-T, Gengar, Terrakion, Gliscor, Thundurus, Zapdos, Salamence, etc.

P.S.

This is my first Core Built, so please be nice and give me as much Help improving as possible if needed

 

[OverlordDerp]

Balance Core: M-Gardevoir + Garchomp

Sets

Gardevoir-Mega @ Gardevoirite
Ability: Trace
EVs: 24 Def / 232 SpA / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Protect
- Will-O-Wisp
- Hyper Voice
- Focus Blast

Garchomp @ Rocky Helmet
Ability: Sand Veil
EVs: 252 HP / 164 Def / 76 SpD / 16 Spe
Impish Nature
- Stealth Rock
- Fire Blast / Endure / Toxic
- Dragon Tail
- Earthquake

Yes, that's the M-Gardevoir set from WCoP. Protect + WoW is practically the epitomy of easing prediction against Pursuit and scarfers, two things commonly lured by M-Gardevoir, and the former of which is ubiquitous in the meta. Psyshock is omitted due to the fact that WoW and Hyper Voice can chip away at things like Amoonguss and M-Venusaur anyways, and isn't nearly as useful as its other two attacking moves. Modest can be run for the extra power, but I'd recommend strongly against it, because this core benefits from being able to check things like non-scarf Kyurem-B and Excadrill in sand.

Protect + WoW isn't all that great at handling against priority like BP + Pursuit Scizor and Aqua Jet if you don't predict the switch-in and WoW, or you predict and miss it anyways because Pokemon is a fun and balanced game, and even against the things it does check, it doesn't want to stay in on something that isn't a 40 BP Pursuit, ex. ScarfTar's Crunch or AV Metagross's BP / Meteor Mash. While defensive Garchomp isn't as prevalent in the meta as defensive Lando-T, it works better as a defensive partner to Gardevoir due to the type synergy, the extra chip damage on contact moves that Rough Skin provides, and the ability to tank Bisharp better. The moves without slashes are self-explanatory, so I'll go into detail about the one slot with 3 possible options. Fire Blast is primarily for Scizor, and being able to at least hurt Skarmory somewhat. Endure is if you want physical attackers to hate you, especially if they think they can put you down in 2 hits with something like Ice Punch. An extra 29.1% chip damage can mean the difference between mutually assured destruction and letting a dangerous sweeper clean up the rest of your team. Toxic is mainly for things like Tangrowth, Landorus-T, Rotom-W, and other common switch-ins that you may want to cripple.

Partners include things that can facilitate spikes stacking, which lets Dragon Tail rack up more residual damage, and things that can handle powerful special attackers like Volcanion, Keldeo, and M-Diancie. If you don't run Toxic on Garchomp, you may want to consider running either that or Taunt on a partner if your team appreciates extra stallbreaking. This core also needs something that can ease its matchup against hyper offense and priority spam, because it is very easy to wear Garchomp down. Steel-types like Skarmory fit multiple roles here, like providing Spikes and Taunt. Things like Leech Seed, Wish and Healing Wish also help immensely in keeping both Gardevoir and Garchomp healthy.

 

[false]

Mega Medicham + Keldeo

Medicham-Mega @ Medichamite
Ability: Pure Power
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
Adamant Nature
- High Jump Kick
- Thunder Punch / Bullet Punch
- Ice Punch
- Fake Out

Keldeo-Resolute @ Choice Specs
Ability: Justified
EVs: 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Hydro Pump
- Secret Sword
- Scald
- Icy Wind

Replays from WCoP

http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/smogtours-ou-169172
http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/smogtours-ou-168936

Mega Medicham + Keldeo is just a standard typespam offense core that looks to overwhelm common shared checks such as Slowbro, Clefable and Latios. Keldeo is Choice Specs to best act as a wallbreaker, whilst Mega Medicham has Thunder Punch to better lure stuff like Slowbro and Azumarill.

Serperior + Tyranitar

Serperior @ Leftovers
Ability: Contrary
EVs: 56 HP / 200 SpA / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk / 30 SpA / 30 Spe
- Leaf Storm
- Hidden Power [Fire]
- Leech Seed
- Substitute

Tyranitar @ Choice Band
Ability: Sand Stream
EVs: 80 HP / 252 Atk / 176 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Crunch
- Stone Edge
- Pursuit
- Ice Punch / Earthquake

Replays from WCoP

http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/smogtours-ou-170562
http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/smogtours-ou-169190
http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/smogtours-ou-170601

Serp + BandTar is a popular wallbreaker + trapper core that utilises Choice Band Tyranitar's powerful Pursuit in order to remove popular Serperior counters such as Heatran, Assault Vest Tornadus-T, and Talonflame.

Dragonite + Magnezone

Dragonite @ Leftovers
Ability: Multiscale
EVs: 244 HP / 28 Def / 44 SpD / 192 Spe
Impish Nature
- Fly
- Substitute
- Dragon Dance
- Roost

Magnezone @ Choice Specs
Ability: Magnet Pull
EVs: 128 HP / 252 SpA / 128 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk / 30 SpA / 30 Spe
- Thunderbolt
- Flash Cannon
- Volt Switch
- Hidden Power [Fire]

Replays from WCoP

http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/smogtours-ou-183813
http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/smogtours-ou-182423
http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/smogtours-ou-172100
http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/smogtours-ou-169243

Sub + Fly Dragonite has experienced a meteoric rise in popularity recently thanks to its success in WCoP, and is seen almost exclusively paired with a Magnezone.

Dragonite's set aims to use its impressive Bulk in combination with Substitute and Roost in order to outlast moves such as Stone Edge which may be used to target it. The main problem with this is the fact that Dragonite is forced to run a monoattacking set, however, Magnezone is able to remedy this for the most part by removing problematic Steel-types, mainly Skarmory, whilst also breaking down many bulkier walls with its Choice Specs-boosted attacks.

Alomomola + Heatran

Alomomola @ Leftovers
Ability: Regenerator
EVs: 232 HP / 252 Def / 24 SpD
Bold Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Scald
- Toxic
- Wish
- Protect

Heatran @ Leftovers
Ability: Flash Fire
EVs: 248 HP / 4 Def / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Lava Plume
- Toxic
- Taunt
- Stealth Rock

Replays from WCoP

http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/smogtours-ou-179910
http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/smogtours-ou-177383
http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/smogtours-ou-169702
http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/smogtours-ou-170939

Alo is another Pokemon, like Sub + Fly Dragonite, that has experienced a spike in popularity thanks to success in WCoP. It's ability to reliably pass wishes and spread status is arguably second to none, whilst it does come at the cost of being otherwise incredibly passive.

Heatran is a fantastic partner for Alo able to soak up Grass attacks from the likes of Serperior, Ferrothorn, Tangrowth, Amoonguss, and Mega Venusaur whilst also greatly appreciating Alo's ability to keep it healthy thanks to Wish support.

Mega Diancie + Tornadus-T

Diancie-Mega @ Diancite
Ability: Magic Bounce
EVs: 16 HP / 240 Atk / 252 Spe
Naive Nature
- Moonblast
- Diamond Storm
- Hidden Power [Fire]
- Protect

Tornadus-Therian (M) @ Assault Vest
Ability: Regenerator
EVs: 248 HP / 8 SpA / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
- Hurricane
- Heat Wave
- U-turn
- Knock Off

Replays from WCoP

http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/smogtours-ou-183415
http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/smogtours-ou-177301
http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/smogtours-ou-172820
http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/smogtours-ou-175002

Mega Diancie + Tornadus-T seems to be a pretty popular core on many bulky offense teams as of recently. Even with Regenerator, Tornadus-T really appreciates Mega Diancie's ability to keep Stealth Rock away with Magic Bounce since it allows Tornadus-T to always be Regenerating back HP which it can use to check stuff, as opposed to using its Regenerated health just to switch in on Stealth Rock again.

Tornadus-T checks many of the annoying bulky Grass-types such as Amoonguss, Mega Venusaur, and Serperior which Mega Diancie doesn't like, whilst also checking Choice Scarf Keldeo, and Knocking Off stuff like Chansey and SpD Skarm so that they're easier to 2HKO. In return, Mega Diancie overwhelms stuff like Clefable and Heatran with max Attack Diamond Storm. You could also run Life Orb Torn-T instead of Assault Vest and that'd work too.

 

[Infernal]

Update time, these cores are being added to the archive:

• 
  
  by ericaroselia (link) ~ A cool core centered around supporting a Gyara sweep by using Tran to lure in and eliminate obstacles like Rotom-W via Power Herb and Solar Beam. The core has been used to good success before, with this RMT by Nedor serving as an example.
• 
  
  by Cheryl. (link) ~ The archive has no cores with Craw, and this is a good one to add. Mega Sciz is one of several offensive partners alongside Craw, contributing a check to Pokemon like Mega Lop and Azu, all while providing free switch in chances with U-turn. Both of these Pokemon can work together to wear down shared checks like Keld, who is worn down by repeated U-turns and Adaptability-boosted Knock's. In general Mega Sciz likes being paired with strong wall breakers like Craw who can open up the holes in the opposing team.
  
• 
  
  by Martin. (link) ~ Simple core based around laying down Spikes with Ferro and blocking removal attempts with Jelli. Contains your usual Grass + Water synergy and is a core mainly used on balance oriented builds, where partners like Tran and company function as good partners.
• 
  
  by ericaroselia (link) ~ Classic core with Nido, being seen on teams like the one shown here. Nido loves free switch in opportunities, and Mega Sciz provides this with U-turn (worth nothing how Nido pressures common Mega Sciz switch ins like Tran, Skarm, and Lando-T). Aside from this, Mega Sciz can also use Pursuit to eliminate Nido obstacles like Latios and Mega Zam. Good core all around that's been used to success before.
  
• 
  
  by HailFall (link) ~ Basic balanced core with dual CM users in Mega Latias and Cune. Both Pokemon are quite self sufficient and function as two potent bulky win conditions. Aside from this, both Pokemon help each other cover several weaknesses. For example, Mega Latias helps Cune by checking threats like Thund-I, Mega Manec, and Loom. Other Grass-type checks to Cune, like Amoonguss, are also fodder for Mega Latias. On the other hand, Cune can help with nuisances like Weavile, Jirachi, and so on.
  
• 
  
  by Koiro. (link) ~ Known and successful core, used on teams like the one seen here. Both apply large amounts of offensive pressure and help one another break down checks. For example, Keld helps Mega Cham with obstacles like Mega Sab. Mega Cham can heavily weaken or kill Keldeo checks like Slowbro and Starmie with a well timed Thunder Punch.
  
• 
  
  by Koiro. (link) ~ Sub Fly Dragonite has made a large impact recently in environments like WCoP. It's a good example of a creative and non-conventional set that's nice to feature in our archive. These example replays showcase its effectiveness: #1 and #2. Good bulk and the combination of Sub + Roost allows Dragonite to PP stall moves like Stone Edge from Lando-T, all while taking advantage of defensive Pokemon looking to status you. Because this Dragonite is only running Fly as its attacking move, Pokemon like Skarm are huge issues. Zone is here to help with this and can threaten other nuisances like Clefable.
• 
  
  by Koiro. (link) ~ Another classic offensive combo. CB Tar handles major obstacles to Serp, namely Talon and Tran. The ability to scare them into switching and nailing them with a Pursuit goes a long way in helping Serp do its thing late game. In return, Serp checks the various Ground and Water types capable of threatening Tar, examples being Hippo, Azu, and Keld.
  
• 
  
  by Koiro. (link) ~ Used on various bulky offensive teams, with this World Cup match being an example. Torn-T helps Mega Diancie by checking all of Mega Venu, Amoonguss, Keld, and so on. Also brings Mega Diancie in for free with U-turn to apply offensive pressure, and can also remove items from various Pokemon to make them easier for its partner to break down. In return for the help, Mega Diancie can block SR attempts from Pokemon like Tran, which makes Torn-T's life easier when switching in. It's also able to overwhelm Torn-T checks like Clefable via a max attack Diamond Storm.
  
• 
  
  by Fugly2 (link) ~ Standard core based around overwhelming shared checks. SD Weavile can help wear down Mega Scizor checks like Keld after setting up. Other Mega Scizor obstacles like Skarm are also heavily weakened by SD Weavile. It's also able to threaten the Pokemon who commonly switch into Mega Sciz's U-turn, like Lando-T and Tank Chomp. Mega Sciz gives back by providing a check to the likes of Mega Lop, Azu, Clefable, and so on.

 

[Drackin]

or

+

Defensive Core

I used this core in balanceds and stalls, the only weakness of quag and gastrodon is grass, azu sap sipper is the best teammate of these two bcause sap sipper makes the grass is inmune, the weakness of azumarill is electric and poison and i can resist with quag and gastrodon and also i can use scald spam or toxic spam

Quagsire @ Leftovers
Ability: Unaware
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD
Relaxed Nature
- Scald
- Recover
- Toxic
- Earthquake

or

Gastrodon (M) @ Leftovers
Ability: Storm Drain
EVs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD
Relaxed Nature
- Scald
- Toxic
- Recover
- Earthquake

Azumarill (M) @ Leftovers
Ability: Sap Sipper
EVs: 240 HP / 16 Def / 252 SpD
Calm Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Scald
- Toxic
- Refresh
- Protect

 

[Millionsunz]

Balance Core: Tyranitar/Mega Heracross

Mega Heracross is quickly becoming a top threat in the OU tier, being able to deal with commonly defensive Pokemon such as Heatran, Mega Venusaur, Rotom-Wash, and Tyranitar. Mega Heracross is also able to deal with strong offensive threats such as Magnezone, Clefable (sort of), Manaphy, and Azumarill. Unfortunately, Mega Heracross is weak to some of the most common types in OU, Flying, Psychic, and Fire to be specific. Priority Flying-Type Attacks from Talonflame and Mega Pinsir demolish poor little Heracross. Pokemon like Alazkazam are also to outspeed and OHKO with Psychic, despite the fact they are OHKO'd by Pin Missile. Tyrantiar makes the perfect defensive partner for Mega Heracross, resisting Flying and Fire type Attacks and being immune to Psychic type Attacks. In return, Mega Heracross is able to eat up the Fighting-Type attacks that destroy Tyranitar. Tyranitar also has the ability to set up SR to deter Flying Type Pokemon, and has access to Pursuit and Crunch, allowing it to KO the Psychics that run through the tier like Alakazam and the Lati's. Unfortunately, this core can be worn down by Azumarill, who hits both Pokemon for strong SuperEffective damage. Serperior can also gives this core trouble, hitting Tyrantiar with a strong Leaf Storm and OHKOing Mega Heracross after two Leaf Storms with HP Fire. Serperior does have to watch out for Pin Missile from Mega Heracross though. Overall, these Pokemon form a strong and moldable balanced core, being able to fit into most Balance or Bulky Offense teams. Enjoy :)

Recommended Sets

Heracross-Mega @ Heracronite
Ability: Moxie
EVs: 144 HP / 232 Atk / 32 Def / 100 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Close Combat
- Pin Missile
- Rock Blast
- Substitute / Bullet Seed

Tyranitar @ Leftovers
Ability: Sand Stream
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
Relaxed Nature
- Earthquake
- Stone Edge
- Pursuit
- Crunch/Superpower

 

[Martin]

Sets

Reuniclus @ Life Orb
Ability: Regenerator / Magic Guard
EVs: 248 HP / 252 SpA / 8 Spe OR 252 HP / 252 SpA / 4 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Trick Room
- Psychic / Psyshock
- Focus Blast
- Shadow Ball

Heracross @ Heracronite
Ability: Guts
EVs: 248 HP / 136 Atk / 24 Def / 100 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Pin Missile
- Rock Blast
- Close Combat
- Substitute / Swords Dance / Rest

Strategies which make Mega Heracross fast are potent in general due to how disgustingly strong Mega Heracross is combined with it's key drawback coming from it being a slow piece of shit being remedied through external means; it's a principle that is shown through it's status as the single best ScoliPass recipient. This is where the logic for this core comes from. While generally OTR Reuniclus is used to clean late game vs. offense, a nice perk is that it pairs incredibly well with Mega Heracross--meaning that sometimes it can be used to make it incredibly threatening and to make it really nice for tearing through offense if the situation calls for it.

Edit: After talking with Infernal I'm going to add a bit more here. Slotting it in before the EV spread stuff and putting said section in hide tags because it is pretty trivial and takes up way too much of the bulk of the post. The key reasons that this core functions well fall down to Mega Heracross' low speed stat and high bulk combined with their good offensive synergy. The fact that Mega Heracross blows fatter teams apart is useful for Reuniclus on the basis that the latter is generally much better suited to cleaning up vs. offense with brutally strong Psychics coming off of an inverted speed tier and high SpA stat. In addition, to this, they share reasonably good defensive synergy courtesy of Psychic/Fighting, and Heracross is a particularly notable wallbreaker for the core for it's ability to take Dark-types which give Reuniclus a particularly hard time with ease--namely Bisharp, but also Weavile in matchups where it has a hard time getting up a Trick Room. Good partners generally consist of standard Reuniclus partners such as fatchomp, standard Mega Hera partners such as Dark-types (nice for forming a Fighting/Psychic/Dark triangle), Stealth Rock setters such as the aforementioned Tankchomp and a few other things.

EV spread shit

Reuniclus doesn't run 0 speed IVs because it isn't outpacing much anyway with 31 IVs and it is nice to reduce it's reliance on TR vs. stuff like Slowbro/king and Ferrothorn. In addition to this, you may notice that Regenerator is listed here along with a 248 HP spread. This spread maximises Regenerator recovery (makes it divisible by 3) without leaving the number divisible by 4 so that Spikes deals less than 25% to Reuniclus. The reason that I have Regen listed is because OTR Reuniclus doesn't often put Magic Guard to great use like CM Reuniclus does due to it's generally short period of usage in battle. This is where Regen comes in really nice, as it means that it can set up TR, take a hit as it's doing so and then switch out to heal--supporting the team with TR while also allowing Reuniclus to heal off some of the damage that it has taken. This is nice given the nature of the core, and it makes it much more consistent support for Heracross. Mega Heracross' EVs outpace 8 Spe Rotom-W post-mega and leave it with a HP stat that isn't divisible by 4--allowing it to sub down 4 times and still have 3 HP remaining and minimising the damage dealt by Spikes. They also provide a v. good roll vs. calm CM Clefable with Rock Blast, which is nice for balance breaking and increases it's ability to break through more balanced/defensive teams. If you want to you can run 164 HP / 244 Atk / 100 Spe with an adamant nature to almost always 2HKO PhysDef Unaware Clef after Stealth Rock, although this results in a noticable drop in bulk so be aware of that. The listed EVs are used as opposed to 0 Spe spread to reduce it's reliance on TR, and if you want you can run a faster EV spread if you value that over the slight increase in bulk. MHera is customisable AF so just play around and see what fits best.

 

[kek123]

+

Balance Core

sets

Clefable @ Leftovers
Ability: Magic Guard
EVs: 252 HP / 172 Def / 84 SpD
Calm Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Moonblast
- Thunder Wave
- Calm Mind
- Soft-Boiled

Magnezone @ Choice Scarf
Ability: Magnet Pull
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk / 30 SpA / 30 Spe
- Thunderbolt
- Volt Switch
- Flash Cannon
- Hidden Power [Fire]

Fairly common core it work well as Magnezone get rid of thing that can be annoying to clef preventing it from CM sweeping for example magnezone can get rid of ferrothorn, skarmory ,Mega scizor and Jirachi the list goes on and since many team only have one check / counter to clefable being there steel type it just makes clefable life a lot easier and often times just mean clefable it able to straight up win the game with the power of CM clefable.

Thing like latios or garchomp go well with this team to form as dragon fairy steel core.

 

[Tressed]

Hide

Landorus-Therian @ Rocky Helmet
Ability: Intimidate
EVs: 248 HP / 244 Def / 8 SpD / 8 Spe
Impish Nature
- Earthquake
- Stone Edge
- U-turn
- Stealth Rock

Latios @ Life Orb
Ability: Levitate
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Draco Meteor
- Psyshock
- Roost
- Defog

Look familiar? This is a pretty standard hazard cores for a lot of teams, varying from balance to hyper offense. There's not many builds these two don't fit onto, given the kinds of things that they manage to check and the offensive presence they have, and they're probably some of the best supporting cast for an offensively based team. It's just really easy to slap these two onto a team, soft check a ton of stuff, and cover most of your hazard needs in one go. Problem mons include fast Ice types, defensive Mega Scizor, and several fairies like Azumarill, Mega Diancie, and Mega Gardevoir. Adding a Steel type like Jirachi alleviates several of these issues.

 

[MANNAT]

I had to write this up twice because smogon doesn't know how to save posts -_-
Offensive Core:

Core

Charizard-Mega-X @ Charizardite X
Ability: Blaze
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Dragon Dance
- Dragon Claw
- Flare Blitz
- Earthquake/Roost

Manaphy @ Leftovers
Ability: Hydration
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk / 30 SpA / 30 Spe
- Tail Glow
- Scald
- Energy Ball
- Ice Beam/Hidden Power Fire

Description: This is a very potent offensive core that can overwhelm defensive teams with its combination of threatening setup sweepers in Mega Charizard X and Manaphy while both still have a solid base 100 speed tier and decent bulk to more than contend vs offense. These two have really solid offensive synergy with Manaphy dispatching of Ground-, Rock-, and Water-types for Mega Charizard X and Zardx beating down Grass- and Electric-types for Manaphy. Mega Charizard X really struggles with really physically bulky walls like Slowbro and Hippowdon, and Manaphy not only takes out these mons, but it also uses them as setup fodder. Manaphy primarily struggles with bulky Pokemon that resists or is neutral to its coverage like Kyurem-Black, Chansey, and Mega Venusaur. DD Zardx is a really underprepped for setup sweeper in general and I like EQ rn because it means that you don't have to wait to weaken random Mega Diancies and Heatrans to sweep, but Roost is also nice for setting up on weak Pokemon like defensive Starmie. TG Manaphy is also surprisingly underprepped for, especially by balance builders and this core usually runs Ice beam Manaphy, but if you have dragon types covered well on your team, you can run HP Fire so that Zardx doesn't have to take Iron Barbs damage from Ferrothorn, which is especially valuable if you are running DD EQ Zardx since that set lacks any form of recovery. Overall, this is a really potent offensive core that puts a ton of pressure on a ton of teams, but you need to make sure to pack hazard control because rocks being up really hampers Zardx's effectiveness.

Other Options: While the two sets provided for the core are the main sets and should be used on most teams, you can also run some variations of the sets if you are having trouble with certain types of teams. If you are struggling to beat stall with Manaphy because it can't break past chansey and you don't have any other stallbreakers/wallbreakers on your team that can, then you can run rain dance over the last slot (and ditch the 30 spa and 30 speed ivs of course) and 2HKO Chansey in the rain with scald, and then proceed to clean through the rest of the team with rain boosted attacks, although it should be noted that you will have to run Ice Beam over Energy Ball to hit bulky Grass-types that try to stop your sweep and missing a third coverage slot really hurts Manaphy vs offense. Additionally, if you find the third coverage slot for Manaphy invaluable on your team and want to try to find another way to do better vs stall, you can run outrage on Zardx to 2HKO Quagsire and proceed to clean through the rest of the team with that menace weakened and/or eliminated from the game, but you will want to run Adamant Nature to do as much damage as possible when you're locked into Outrage, although this will obviously make it a bit harder to clean vs offense because dragon resists are more powerful on offense than on stall. These options can both viably be run on a team if need be, but keep in time that you are sacrificing your matchup vs offense and want more mons to beat offensive threats.

Threats to the Core:

- Offensive Dragon-types absolutely bone the core and can walk all over it if not prepared. The most notable one is obviously Latios as Draco OHKOs Zardx and can do up to 90% to Manaphy, which is absolutely insane. Additionally, Choice Scarf Kyurem-Black can OHKO Zardx with Dragon Claw or Outrage while tanking multiple hits from Manaphy and doing a hell of a lot to it with Fusion Bolt.

- Serperior can absolutely run through the core if Zardx is already mega evolved because it can setup Leaf Storm by OHKOing Manaphy and OHKO Zardx at +2 with Dragon Pulse, but regular Charizard can actually eat a +2 dpulse and OHKO Serp with Flare Blitz. However, you still need a solid Serp check because things won't always fall into place this easily.

- Choice Specs Keldeo is an insanely huge threat to the core because it is so strong, and it naturally outspeeds both members of the core. Choice Specs Hydro Pump OHKOs Zardx while Manaphy takes north of 60% from secret sword and gets OHKOed after rocks most of the time by the rare Focus Blast. Basically, if this thing has Focus Blast, both members of the core lose to it at team preview.

Potential Partners:

- Latias is an amazing partner to this core for a few reasons, and there is legitimate reason why I have picked it over its brother. First of all, it checks Choice Specs Keldeo, which is one of the most threatening mons to this core. Not only that, but it also provides invaluable Defog support for Zardx while having an amazing utility move in Healing Wish that can give either member of the core a chance to sweep even after they have been severely crippled. Additionally, Latias can beat Serp 1v1 if need be, but boosted Dragon Pulse does do way too much for Latias to switch straight into Serperior.

- Jirachi is also a really solid teammate for the core for several reasons. It has a solid Steel typing coupled with amazing 100/100/100 bulk for an offensive Pokemon that allows it to pivot into Dragon-types that threaten the core as well as Serperior. With a Choice Scarf equipped, you can check Choice Specs Keldeo with Heart Stamp, Serperior with Iron Head/U-turn spam, and the Lati twins with the aforementioned moves. Not only that, but Jirachi can also provide Healing Wish support for the core, and it can run a Stealth Rock set to wear away at mons that try to check the core.

- Lastly, AV Tornadus-Therian is an excellent partner to the core. It may not provide as much team support as Latias and Jirachi do, but it does provide one key thing, and that is threat control. Having AV Torn-T at team preview means that Serperior will have a very difficult time vs your team and has a very high chance of doing absolutely nothing vs your team. Additionally, Torn-T soft checks the Lati twins and Keldeo, not being OHKOed by any one move in the case of late game situations and having moves to hit both with Knock Off and Hurricane respectively.

Overall, this is one of my favorite cores to use in the current metagame and can really smash a lot of common teams in the metagame with good team support. Overall, this core tends to do very well vs bulkier teams on its own, so adding anti-offense mons is a must aside from what was already mentioned. Thanks for your time and I hope you liked the core :]

 

[HailFall]

Offensive Core: Gengar + Mega Diancie

Sets

Gengar @ Life Orb
Ability: Levitate
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 29 HP / 0 Atk
- Shadow Ball
- Sludge Wave
- Focus Blast
- Taunt / Icy Wind / Substitute / Will-O-Wisp

Diancie-Mega @ Diancite
Ability: Magic Bounce
EVs: 8 Atk / 248 SpA / 252 Spe
Naive Nature
IVs: 30 Atk / 30 SpA / 30 Spe
- Moonblast
- Diamond Storm
- Hidden Power [Fire]
- Protect

When I took a look at the archive, I noticed a pretty big lack of Gengar cores so I thought I'd post this. This is a pretty potent offensive core I've been fooling around with and it does a pretty great job of breaking slower teams. Gengar is a scary wallbreaker but there are quite a few roadblocks in its way making it struggle in the current metagame. Some of these include Talonflame, Assault Vest Tornadus-T, and Dark-types. Mega Diancie naturally makes for a great partner, checking Tornadus-T and Talonflame lacking (extremely uncommon) Steel-type coverage and also checking the likes of Bisharp, Mega Sableye, Choice Scarf Tyranitar locked into Pursuit, and Mandibuzz. Gengar also complements Mega Diancie by being able to take on the likes of Slowking, Serperior, Amoonguss, and Clefable. Furthermore depending on which move Gengar chooses in the last slot it can potentially check Chansey, lure Gliscor, or lure Mega Scizor for Mega Diancie. Substitute is another option to make Pursuit more easily manageable. Other Gengar sets like Hex or SubSplit can also be run here, I just chose standard Life Orb as it is the most standard set.

This core greatly appreciates a bulky backbone to make it work as both these mons are very frail and susceptible to priority and faster pokemon. Keldeo can make for a decent partner to check Mega Scizor and Weavile while switching into Bisharp reliably, unlike Diancie. Ferrothorn can provide valuable spikes support while checking Gastrodon, Surf Latios lacking Hidden Power Fire (though an Occa Berry can help to relieve this problem), and check Weavile and Choice Band Azumarill with a Chople Berry. Landorus-T can check Sand Rush and Choice Scarf Excadrill as well as Mega Lopunny for these two while providing Stealth Rock. Finally, Latios provides an answer to Scarf Keldeo and fast Electric-types like Thundurus and Mega Manectric.

 

[Yay]

Offensive Core: Mega Gardevoir + Lucario

Hide

She's like heroin (Gardevoir-Mega) (F) @ Gardevoirite
Ability: Pixilate
EVs: 16 HP / 8 Def / 232 SpA / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Hyper Voice
- Will-O-Wisp / Taunt
- Psyshock
- Focus Blast

Lucario @ Life Orb
Ability: Justified
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
Adamant Nature
IVs: 29 HP
- Extreme Speed
- Close Combat
- Swords Dance
- Iron Tail / Ice Punch

Psychic- and Fairy-types always like things that can break through Steel-types, and even as a Wallbreaker, Mega Gardevoir appreciates a LOT the sweeping potential of SD Luke. Gardevoir can destroy Lucario common checks such as Landorus-T, Mega Sableye, Quagsire, burn Steel- and Ground-types that can check the core and just won against some stalls such as Shed Stall (personally, i prefer Tbolt to break through common stalls that relies on Talonflame/Skarm to check Garde. If you want to run Taunt > Wisp on Gardevoir, its highly recommended to use Crunch Luke to deal with random shedinjas). Luke just nukes the common Steel-types that checks Gardevoir, like Ferrothorn, Mega Scizor and Heatran, and it's a great late-game cleaner with +2 ESpeed(It can even beat it's own checks with Ice Punch or Iron Tail, with good predictions and a bit of luck to don't miss the last one).

Actually, that's a GREAT core against Stall, BO and Balanced-oriented builds, since Luke and Gardevoir can singlehanded won against most fat teams by itself, and with each one breaking things for the other, they can won against almost 100% of the stalls in the team preview. Obviously they suffer a bit against Offense, but with good pivoting and prediction Mega Gardevoir can as always get a kill almost all the time it enters on field and Luke can clean most of the Pokémon in offense with Extreme Speed + Rocks on the field. The core have a nice defensive utility too, since Gardevoir can easily switch into Latis and Luke can be a emergency switch to Dark-types, Mega Scizor and Mega Venusaur. It's a great core and almost always game-winning in ladder paired with Pursuit-trapping.

This core is kinda weak to Scarf Magnezone, but bulky variations are more popular right now, so you can just nuke it with Focus Blast/Close Combat. Other offensive threats to this core include Mega Metagross with EQ or Hammer Arm, Scarf Excadrill(Not really sure about Sand Rush, since Luke can easily deal with Tyranitar) and LO Gengar.

Great partners to this core are things that can switch into these threats, such as Landorus-T and Zapdos, and Dark-types that can pursuit Psychic- and Ghost-types that easily deal with Lucario, such as Weavile and Tyranitar. Magnezone is a cool partner too, since it can beat Steel-types more easily and make Gardevoir wallbreaking or Lucario sweeping way more easier.

 

[MANNAT]

Offensive Core:

Core

Bisharp @ Life Orb
Ability: Defiant
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Swords Dance
- Sucker Punch
- Knock Off
- Iron Head

Scizor @ Scizorite
Ability: Light Metal
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Swords Dance
- Bullet Punch
- Bug Bite
- Superpower

Description: This is an extremely threatening core that can give anyone a headache to see at team preview, especially teams that rely on Keldeo to check offensive Swords Dance Sweepers. This boosting core puts immediate pressure on your opponent's team from the get-go and really is a pain to face if you aren't prepared to take it on. Bisharp and Mega Scizor share amazing offensive synnergy in terms of shared checks because Keldeo, Heatran, and Rotom-W are all considered common checks for both members of this core, but they can get easily overwhelmed with attempting to check both of them in the same match. While these two may not have amazing defensive synergy, they more than make up for it in offensive synergy and being able to pressure the opponent's team with a combination of terrifying boosting sweepers. Overall, this is a really solid offensive core that can really pressure teams, and it's ideal for HO builds that constantly pressure the opponent to play on their heels.

Other Options: If your team struggles with stall and doesn't have an effective way or luring or even beating Sableye, then I recommend running Lum Berry over Life orb on Bisharp as it allows it to lure Sableye and Iron Head it for a ton of damage. You can also run Grass Knot on Bisharp to lure Quagsire, but that's a mediocre option at best because it only lures one target whereas Lum Berry can work for any burn spreader. Additionally, you can run bulky Mega Scizor if you are running more of a bulky offensive team and really appreciate the extra bulk, but the offensive pressure provided by the current Scizor set is too good to pass up.

Threats: Since this is an HO overload core, I'm not gonna include a threats section, because there is a lot of threats to the core, but I will add in a partners section to help you out with building this.

Potential Partners:

- Manaphy can be a really good partner to the core and can only strengthen the boosting menace that the core already has. Currently, the core gets absolutely roasted by offensive and defensive Fire-types alike and really appreciates a fire resist, so Manaphy steps in to provide the more than necesary role for the core. Additionally, Manaphy's ability to setup and sweep vs defensive teams really helps out the core because it struggles to bust through Sableye builds in general and Manaphy can bust through those builds in its sleep with its bread and butter TG 2 attacks set.

- Latios is a really solid partner for the core for a couple of reasons. First of all, it provides an actual Keldeo switch-in so that the core's "overload Keld" tactic actually works, and it gives a fire resist for the core and can viably run Surf to lure in Heatran, who is a huge threat to the core. Aside from that, Latios is generally a strong wallbreaker that can pair up well in tandem with the core in order to pressure teams and put you in the drivers seat with a couple of good predictions with its coverage move.

This core is very fun to use and while it can be a tad match up dependent, it's really solid vs a lot of standard teams nowadays and can really form a frightening HO in tandem with other standard HO mons. Hope you guys liked the core :]

 

[HailFall]

Mega Sharpedo + Ferrothorn (or spikes in general)

​

Sets

Sharpedo-Mega @ Sharpedonite
Ability: Speed Boost
EVs: 228 Atk / 28 SpA / 252 Spe
Naughty Nature
- Hydro Pump
- Crunch
- Poison Jab / Ice Fang
- Protect

Ferrothorn @ Chople Berry / Occa Berry / Leftovers
Ability: Iron Barbs
EVs: 252 HP / 88 Def / 168 SpD
Relaxed Nature
- Spikes
- Leech Seed
- Gyro Ball / Power Whip
- Power Whip / Protect / Thunder Wave

Mega Sharpedo doesnt have any cores in the archive despite being a fairly solid cleaner with the right support, so i thought i would post one i like. Mega Sharpedo really appreciates something to soften up the opposing team to let it clean more easily. Spikes works perfectly for this, weakening Tangrowth, Keldeo, opposing Ferrothorn, Mega Venusaur, Mega Scizor, and more putting them all in range of the appropriate move when it comes time to clean late game. Ferrothorn is the tiers best and most common spiker so it was chosen for this core, though other spikers like Klefki or Skarmory can work here depending on the rest of the build. In addition to just providing spikes, ferrothorn further supports Mega Sharpedo by checking certain problematic bulky water types like suicune which may be able to halt a mega sharpedo sweep with roar as well as providing general defensive utility in checking the likes of latios, mega diancie, and more.

Kyurem-B + Starmie + Ferrothorn

Sets

Kyurem-Black @ Life Orb
Ability: Teravolt
EVs: 4 Atk / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
Hasty Nature
- Ice Beam
- Earth Power
- Fusion Bolt
- Roost / Iron Head / Hidden Power [Fire] / Outrage

Starmie @ Leftovers
Ability: Natural Cure
EVs: 252 HP / 4 SpA / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Scald
- Toxic / Psyshock
- Rapid Spin
- Recover

Ferrothorn @ Occa Berry / Chople Berry / Leftovers
Ability: Iron Barbs
EVs: 252 HP / 88 Def / 168 SpD
Relaxed Nature
- Spikes
- Leech Seed
- Gyro Ball / Power Whip
- Power Whip / Protect / Thunder Wave

This is another hazard stacking core that can fit on bulky offense and balance that provides a pretty sturdy defensvie backbone along with a powerful breaker, hazard remover, and spiker all in one. First and foremost is Kyurem-B, which is a solid check to most Electric-types and Manaphy and can be pretty scary to go up against with stealth rock alongside several layers of spikes on the field to whittle down its checks like Ferrothorn and Mega Scizor. you can go for a sub variant here to to more reliably put in work vs offense if you so please. Starmie has always been a great partner for Kyurem-B, checking Keldeo, M-Gross, and more while removing hazards for Kyurem-B with Rapid Spin, making it less easily worn down. Finally Ferrothorn completes this core by providing a check to Mega Diancie, Azumarill, Latios, and opposing Kyurem-B while setting spikes to wear down the majority of Kyurem-B's checks.

This core is very weak to mega scizor so checks to it like Keldeo, Heatran, and Zapdos are greatly appreciated. In addition keldeo makes for a great partner as it can check bisharp and weavile, two other problematic pokemon for this core. Tornadus-t is a nuisance so Heatran and Zapdos can work wonders with this core too. Finally, Serperior is a problem that can easily get out of hand if it carries Dragon Pulse, so Heatran is also a good partner to fix that weakness.

Mega Sceptile + Heatran

​

Sets

Sceptile-Mega @ Sceptilite
Ability: Overgrow
EVs: 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
Naive Nature / Timid Nature
- Leaf Storm
- Dragon Pulse
- Earthquake / Giga Drain
- Hidden Power [Fire] / Focus Blast

Heatran @ Leftovers
Ability: Flash Fire
EVs: 252 HP / 4 SpA / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Magma Storm / Lava Plume
- Earth Power / Stealth Rock
- Toxic
- Taunt

This is probably the most standard Mega Sceptile core out there and these two have fantastic offensive and defensive synergy together. Mega Sceptile is fantastic at pressuring standard lando/lati/rotom/filler bulky offenses but runs into some issues, namely breaking Clefable, Talonflame, and Assault Vest Tornadus-T. Furthermore mega sceptile has a severe susceptibility to priority due to its general frailness. Heatran is a fantastic partner as it keeps many of the pokemon Mega Sceptile has trouble pressuring in check and also checks several pesky priority users like Mega Scizor and Talonflame. It can also set stealth rock to wear down problematic birds like Torn-T and Talon as well as trap and severely weaken -or outright remove- Chansey for Mega Sceptile to run through slower teams with more ease despite its already great matchup against offense. In exchange Mega Sceptile checks many problematic Water-types like Slowbro, Slowking, Keldeo, Quagsire, and Suicune as well as Ground-types like Landorus-T and Garchomp which threaten Heatran.

One big threat to this core is Weavile. Weav can easily revenge kill Mega Sceptile with Ice Shard and deals immense damage to Heatran with Knock Off or Low Kick so Keldeo, Choice Scarf Terrakion, Suicune, Azumarill, and other Pokemon capable of checking it make for fantastic partners. Taunt Swords Dance Talonflame and Tornadus-T with Superpower have ways of breaking past Heatran and walling Sceptile, so backup checks to these Pokemon like Rotom-W and other Electric-types can work as well. Rotom-W is especially useful for checking Sand Rush Excadrill which can revenge kill both Heatran and Excadrill, though the team would still be susceptible to Choice Scarf Excadrill.

Manaphy + Mega Metagross

​

Sets

Manaphy @ Leftovers
Ability: Hydration
EVs: 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
- Tail Glow
- Scald
- Ice Beam / Hidden Power [Fire]
- Energy Ball / Psychic

Metagross @ Metagrossite
Ability: Clear Body
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Meteor Mash
- Hammer Arm
- Pursuit
- Ice Punch / Thunder Punch / Zen Headbutt / Bullet Punch

Manaphy is an absolutely lethal breaker but has problems with being easily revenge killed by common pokemon like Latios after setting up. Thankfully Mega Metagross can prevent that from happening thanks to its great bulk paired with Pursuit to eat a Draco Meteor from Latios and then remove it from the picture, letting Manaphy sweep later on. Furthermore Mega Metagross can remove certain other pokemon that have the potential to halt a manaphy sweep such as Unaware Clefable and Kyurem-B and pursuit trap Chansey to get damage on it. In return Manaphy can take advantage of the fat Ground-types that like to switch into Mega Metagross like Hippowdon and Landorus-t and set up on them or fire off a coverage move and get good damage on something that comes in. If you want a more detailed description you can check out my rmt where i used this core (shameless plug).

This core's biggest obstacles are electric types. Many of them can revenge kill Manaphy and tank a hit from Mega Metagross and then retaliate back. As such, Hippowdon, Latios, Latias, and Clefable work well as partners. Latias has the added bonus of giving Manaphy a secondary chance to sweep with Healing Wish. Various other pokemon dont have direct switchins such as Weavile and other Dark-types, so Keldeo and Terrakion can make for good partners.

Tornadus-T + Dugtrio

​

Sets

Tornadus-Therian @ Life Orb
Ability: Regenerator
EVs: 4 Atk / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
Naive Nature
- Hurricane
- Heat Wave
- U-turn
- Knock Off / Taunt / Icy Wind

Dugtrio @ Custap Berry
Ability: Arena Trap
EVs: 252 Atk / 252 Spe
Naive Nature
IVs: 21 HP / 0 Def / 0 SpD
- Earthquake
- Reversal
- Stone Edge
- Endure

This is a pretty fantastic core (one of my personal favorites) which utilizes dugtrio to trap certain threats to Life Orb Tornadus-T such as Heatran, Tyranitar, Mega Diancie, Mega Manectric, and Mega Lopunny. This trapping removes most relevant pokemon capable of defensively checking Life Orb Torn-T and thus lets it wreak havoc on the opposing team, firing off devistatingly powerful hurricanes and having the coverage to break past almost every one of its checks Dugtrio cant trap with Heat Wave.

Rotom-W and Zapdos are major threats to this core as neither can be trapped nor severely threatened by Dugtrio, so partners like Amoonguss, Latios, and Clefable can work well. The core also has a major issue with Weavile, meaning Mega Scizor, Clefable, Keldeo, and Suicune are all decent choices for partners. Generally speaking it is best just to establish a defensive backbone when building with this core, as both of these mons are very frail and susceptible to priority.

 

[Nedor]

heyo, update time again. all of the following cores will be added to the archive after being discussed, and the ones near the bottom we have agreed to, but need some editing to join the OP.

by kek123
......
a pretty simple core that focuses on magnezone removing / weakening a large majority of calm mind clefable's checks, such as skarmory, mega scizor, and jirachi. magnezone is also capable of chipping at stuff that bothers clefable such as heatran and mega metagross. it has also seen some high level tour usage (example).

by Tressed
......
a really common offensive backbone that utilizes two "glue" pokemon that are capable of checking some relevant threats to more offensively based teams (landt = excadrill, lopunny, talonflame, zardx, etc | latios = keldeo, rotomw, waters in general, electrics like mega manectric) while still being threatening offensively. not only this, hazard control be be implemented through these two, but they can also run different sets such as scarf landorus-t, roost 3 attack / specs latios, all depending on the team.

by Littlelucario
......
this is an offensive core that focuses on beating down each other's checks / counters until one or the other is capable of sweeping, depending on the match up of course. both manaphy and charizard-x can do well against common playstyles in oras right now and are threatening pokemon overall.

by Littlelucario
......
yet another offensively based core which tries to accomplish a few things, with the main goal being to wear down similar checks (keldeo, hippowdon, garchomp, etc) until either sd bisharp or sd mega scizor are capable of cleaning up with their strong priority. this core has been seen countless times throughout the ladder / tours and functions similarly to darkspam in which teammates attempt to pressure the same things.

+ / / (spikes support) by HailFall
......
what this core aims to accomplish is supporting mega sharpedo's sweep late game by utilizing spikes to chip at its counters until they are in range of its attacks. there are multiple spikers to choose from, but mega sharpedo is typically seen alongside klefki specifically on more offensively based teams that focus on non-stop pressure.

by HailFall
......
despite being a three mon core, these pokemon center around hazard control through stacking spikes with ferrothorn, while starmie provides spin support for kyu-b to get more opportunities to come in and wallbreak. this core has been seen used in world cup and while it still needs support in a rocker and preferably something to deter hazard setters to an even greater extent, it is still solid nonetheless.

by HailFall
......
there aren't many mega sceptile cores in the archive as it is normally an underwhelming pokemon in ou, but heatran works wonderfully alongside it to pressure some of its checks with stealth rock, preventing recovery from stuff like clefable with taunt, while the core even has some defensive utility that his post mentions.

by HailFall
......
another offensively based core that i was surprised to not already see in the archive. manaphy + mega metagross has been something used pretty much throughout the entirety of oras ou in ladder / tournament play, and this is due to the solid offensive and defensive synergy the two have.
......

now, i will be going through a few of the cores that we want added to the archive, but can only be done after the user edits a minor issue in a set, ev spread, etc.

starting off with Millionsunz's core of mega heracross + tyranitar; we'd like to see scarf tyranitar in recommended sets as opposed to the utility variant, mainly because scarf hits a speed tier that is capable of more efficiently trapping some of mega pinsir's biggest threats, such as latios, mega pinsir, zard-x/y, etc (once this is done, it is archive ready!)

now for GustavoYAY's mega gardevoir + sd lucario; we thought this core was a pretty neat concept of standard wallbreaker + cleaner, but we would prefer if thunderbolt wasn't slashed with focus blast as it is a pretty mandatory move in gardevoir's arsenal, as well as making lucario's hp ivs 29 in order to hit a life orb number.

as usual, if your core was not added to the archive this time around, feel free to pm myself, starry blanket, or Infernal and we will get back to you as soon as possible. keep in mind, if you are confident of your core, showing us replays of the core in practice is always beneficial.

 

[AM]

Nedor only added the manaphy one cause he thinks its thiccc.

 

[dk]

reserving lopunny + rotom-wash

also please reference my sig for the post above

 

[Yay]

now for GustavoYAY's mega gardevoir + sd lucario; we thought this core was a pretty neat concept of standard wallbreaker + cleaner, but we would prefer if thunderbolt wasn't slashed with focus blast as it is a pretty mandatory move in gardevoir's arsenal, as well as making lucario's hp ivs 29 in order to hit a life orb number.

It's done.

 

[Amane Misa]

+

First core here D:

I have been using this core in my main OLT team and it performed pretty well.

Mega Heracross 2HKOs almost the entire metagame, though it gets checked easily by Talonflame, Togekiss, Tornadus-T and more birds.

Zapdos provides an almost guaranteed switch-in to Talonflame, Togekiss, Tornadus-T and more birds (there are exceptions like CB Staraptor but that's not very common now).

So... why shouldn't I just use Rotom-W?

The special thing about Zapdos is that it punishes foes with Static. You don't know how much times it put in work. One example: Mega Heracross vs. Tornadus-T. I don't wanna risk my Mega Heracross so I switch to my Zapdos. My opponent predicts my switch and goes for U-turn but then Static activates and Tornadus-T doesn't check Heracross anymore.

Didn't get the Static paralyze on let's say... Talonflame? Or the opposing Tornadus-T used Hurricane? No problem. You click Volt Switch and your opponent switches to something, realising they can't touch Zapdos. Is it Chansey? Mega-Heracross gets another heavy hit. Is it a Clefable that is lower than 50%? Mega Heracross gets another heavy hit.

This core works amazing with a fast Pursuit support from Weavile (what I use on my team) but Scarf Tyranitar can work too. Sometimes people tend to switch in their Lati@s on Zapdos, a great check to Mega Heracross. They get Pursuit trapped by Weavile. I love using Choice Band Weavile with the core because it is fast, strong, lures Clefable and checks Serperior.

I love using HP Ice on that Zapdos to lure Landorus-T so Mega Heracross would have an easier day getting kills.

Sets

Heracross-Mega @ Heracronite
Ability: Guts
EVs: 144 HP / 232 Atk / 32 Def / 100 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Close Combat
- Pin Missile
- Rock Blast
- Rest

Zapdos @ Leftovers
Ability: Static
EVs: 248 HP / 176 Def / 68 SpA / 16 Spe
Bold Nature
IVs: 0 Atk / 30 Def
- Volt Switch
- Roost
- Hidden Power [Ice]
- Heat Wave

 

[prince HIPPOPOTAS]

Here is an underrated core I used here.

Dragonite + ZardY

Dragonite is an exceptionally strong sweeper that can easily find set-up opportunities thanks to Multiscale and the fabled Dragon typing. However, it it isn't all fun and games for Dragonite as there are a few Pokemon that can give the legendary Dragon problems. Faries, especially Unaware Clefable can 2HKO Dragonite with their respective Fairy type STAB, Kyurem-B can OHKO Dragonite through Multiscale by virtue of Teravolt with Ice Beam. Physical walls in general give Dragonite a problem, most notably Quagsire, Hippowdown, and Skarmory. Charizard-Y works perfectly in tandem with Dragonite, being able to 2HKO or OHKO every one of Dragonite's checks and counters. In exchange, Dragonite can set up on some of Chary-Y's checks and counters, including Specially Defensive Talonflame, the fat pink blobs, Chansey and Blissey, and others. Solid partners to this core include Excadrill and Starmie, who provide much needed Rapid Spin support.​

​

sets

Charizard-Mega-Y @ Charizardite Y
Ability: Blaze
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Fire Blast
- Solar Beam
- Focus Blast
- Roost

Dragonite @ Lum Berry
Ability: Multiscale
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Dragon Dance
- Outrage
- Extreme Speed
- Earthquake

 

[Vague]

Backbone

Heatran @ Leftovers
Ability: Flash Fire
EVs: 248 HP / 8 SpA / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
- Toxic
- Lava Plume
- Taunt
- Stealth Rock

Rotom-W @ Leftovers
Ability: Levitate
EVs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 Spe
Bold Nature
- Hydro Pump
- Volt Switch
- Will-O-Wisp
- Pain Split

hi, so i'm surprised this isn't archived since this is one of the most prevalent and effective defensive core you'll ever find on a vast majority of teams. heatran and rotom-w offer a ton of utility towards offensive teams with their great defensive qualities and the huge range of threats they check together. clefable, talonflame, mega scizor, excadrill, latios, etc. they're all top-tier threats that this neat little core can adequately check and continue to check. in terms of synergy, heatran beats most grasses that rotom-w loses to and rotom-w is an excellent ground check and decent enough water check. overall, this is a really good defensive backbones that you can't really go wrong from using it.

 

[FearOfWater]

Offensive Core: Bisharp+Weavile (Dark Spam)

Sets:

Hide

Bisharp @ Black Glasses
Ability: Defiant
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Knock Off
- Swords Dance
- Iron Head
- Sucker Punch

Weavile @ Choice Band
Ability: Pressure
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Knock Off
- Icicle Crash
- Ice Shard
- Pursuit

Description:
This is a very simple core. Basically it takes the advantage that many teams are unprepared for Dark type moves, and that most Dark resists either lack recovery, or are weak to Bisharp/Weavile other STABs. The win condition is damaging the checks until Bisharp or Weavile can clear late game. It works a very similar way to the famous Bird Spam (M-Pinsir+Talonflame).

Partners:

This core works best with hazard stack, as Weavile can pursuit most Defoggers/Rapid Spinners and Bisharp beneficts from the Defog Defiant boost.

Flying types cover the fighting weakness and M-Venusaur, making them good partner choices.

M-Slowbro is a specially good teammate as it can switch into most Pokémon which threaten Bisharp and Weavile, like M-Lopunny and Keldeo.
Threats:

Fighting: Fighting types hit both Weavile and Bisharp for 4x super effective and resist they're STABs. Luckily they usually don't carry recovery and can be worn down.

Dark: Dark types with Low Kick can be a problem to the core when brought in safely. Again, hazards limits their switch-ins as they also have no recovery.

Bulky Megas: The likes of Mega Venusaur and Mega Scizor counter this core, as they can switch-in and recover any damage Weavile and Bisharp can do.

 

[Gigglewithme]

The core

Bisharp @ Life Orb
Ability: Defiant
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Pursuit
- Iron Head
- Sucker Punch
- Knock Off

Gengar @ Life Orb
Ability: Levitate
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Sludge Wave
- Icy Wind
- Focus Blast
- Dazzling Gleam/Shadow ball

This Bisharp and Gengar core is absolutely deadly offensively and can also be used in semi stall teams as this combo makes sure hazards are in the field,if not the opponent pays deadly damage with defiant adamant priority Biharp for it as they can prevent rapid spin and defog which semi stall teams enjoy .Also Bisharp can take on stall/wallbreakers which have more/better special defense while Gengar can take on those who are defensive.Offensively this core in the same way can destroy specially defensive tanks and defensive tanks respectively.And for Gengar i chose Dazzling Gleam over shadow ball for its ability to take on Sableye and some fighting types as most psychic types either outspeed it or of the same speed(which can be risky) and ko it with their stab also the other coverage moves of Gengar can take most of them .U can use shadow ball if u hate Mega slowbro or Victini. Also these 2 can switch into each others checks easily as Bisharp can switch into dark,ghost and psychic pokemons and can kill them with Its pursuit or sucker punch while Gengar can have a free switch on the fighting and ground moves aimed at bIsharp.A fighting type set up sweeper works really well with this core as Hazards can stay which helps set up sweeps as well as bisharp can pursuit trap and ko the psychic and ghost types[Mostlly u are gonna have stealth rock on the field so no need to worry abt flying types also dazling gleam can take out Mega sableye which also threatens fighting sweepers] which threatens the fighting type pokemons and also the fighting type pokes can take care of dark types and choice scarf excadrill which this core struggles against.

Just try to kill starmie as soon as possible with bisharp's pursuit as it is the only rapid spinner which can threaten gengar in OU.Icy wind for gengar to ko Landorous-T,garchomp and gliscor(These are also some of the msot commonly used pokemon in ou) which can force gengar out as well as ko Bisharp.I chose Bisharp as the pursuit user over others as i felt it can work better as every1 knows Bisharp has the supereffective priority suckerpunch which opponents can fear and make them switch and also as stab pursuit is required to ohko a lot of psychic types.