LC Poliwag

[Drew]

[OVERVIEW]

With its excellent Speed stat and access to Belly Drum, Poliwag can make a decent sweeper for offensive teams. Its access to Hypnosis can also help it set up and gives it a small niche over other Belly Drum users. However, better Belly Drum users such as Zigzagoon and, to an extent, Magby do a much better job at sweeping due to their access to good priority options. Poliwag is also held back by its relatively small movepool and paper-thin defenses, which keep it from finding reliable setup opportunities. It is incredibly vulnerable to being revenge killed by Choice Scarf and priority users as well. Finally, Poliwag needs a lot of support to even be worth using over almost any other offensive Water-types and Belly Drum users.

[SET]
name: Belly Drum
move 1: Belly Drum
move 2: Waterfall
move 3: Hypnosis / Thief
move 4: Return / Thief
item: Berry Juice
ability: Water Absorb
nature: Jolly
evs: 116 HP / 196 Atk / 196 Spe

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

Belly Drum boosts Poliwag's Attack to an extremely high level, allowing it to sweep. Waterfall, when boosted, can hit anything that doesn't resist it for huge damage. Hypnosis allows Poliwag to set up more easily by immobilizing its foe temporarily, but its poor accuracy can be quite unreliable. Return covers all Pokemon that Waterfall does not, such as Mareanie, Foongus, and Shellder. Thief is an alternate coverage option that can be used to remove foes' items after Poliwag has consumed its Berry Juice, as well as hit Pumpkaboo-XL and Frillish, two Pokemon that otherwise wall Poliwag. Wake-Up Slap is another option, as it can hit Ferroseed and Lileep, which would otherwise wall Poliwag.

Set Details
========

Poliwag needs Berry Juice to restore its HP after a Belly Drum. Poliwag's EVs and Jolly nature help maximize its power and let it outspeed Doduo and Gastly. An even-numbered HP stat is essential to activate Berry Juice after a Belly Drum, and as such, the remaining 116 EVs are put into HP to achieve this. Water Absorb is Poliwag's most useful ability, as it lets it avoid Aqua Jet, Scald burns, and other potential chip damage from other Water-types.

Usage Tips
========

Be sure to conserve Poliwag for late-game, as its primary role is a late-game sweeper. However, sometimes Poliwag can come in on more passive Pokemon such as Spritzee and proceed to sweep. Also, avoid switching Poliwag into attacks, as its paper-thin defenses will usually result in it being KOed. The one exception to this is switching into Water-type attacks, as Water Absorb will absorb them, although this is incredibly dangerous and should only be done when you are sure the foe will use a Water-type move. Instead, try to get Poliwag in with a Volt Switch or U-turn user or after one of your Pokemon has fainted. Before Poliwag sets up, it is a good idea to use Hypnosis to cripple the foe by putting them to sleep. Be sure to eliminate all revenge killers, primarily faster Pokemon, priority users, and Abra, as they can stop Poliwag's sweep quite quickly. Also, be sure to eliminate Ferroseed and Lileep if Poliwag is not running Wake-Up Slap and Frillish and Pumpkaboo-XL if Poliwag is not running Thief.

Team Options
========

Slow U-turn or Volt Switch users such as Chinchou, Vullaby, and Mienfoo can easily help Poliwag get in without it suffering any damage. Sticky Web support from the likes of Surskit can help Poliwag outspeed Choice Scarf users such as Chinchou, Mienfoo, and certain faster Pokemon, mainly Elekid and Diglett. Other entry hazards from Dwebble, Pawniard, or Onix can help break Sturdy and Focus Sashes for Poliwag to more easily sweep. Memento support from Cottonee or Diglett can be helpful to cripple foes to a point where they essentially need to switch out while also safely getting Poliwag in. Pancham can also cripple foes and function as a slow pivot with Parting Shot and has the benefit of being able to beat Ferroseed for Poliwag. Furthermore, checks to bulky Grass- and Water-types such as Foongus and Snivy can help ease Poliwag's job of cleaning up. Dark-types, particularly Pursuit trappers such as Alolan Grimer and Pawniard, can eliminate Ghost-types if Poliwag is not running Thief.

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

Psychium Z with Hypnosis can be used to boost Poliwag's Speed, but Poliwag can't afford to give up Berry Juice to do so. Poliwag can try functioning as a rain sweeper thanks to its Swift Swim ability, but rain is very lackluster, as its main setters and sweepers aren't very good. Protect can shield Poliwag from Fake Out, but Poliwag has trouble finding room for the move, and Protect doesn't do anything else of use anyway. Encore is a potential alternative to Hypnosis that doesn't miss, but it is actually less reliable, as if the foe attacks with a powerful move, Poliwag will most likely be KOed anyway. Refresh can be used to clear Poliwag of status conditions but forces it to give up a moveslot.

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

**Bulky Water-resistant Pokemon**: Chinchou, Lileep, and Ferroseed all are threats to Poliwag due to their bulk and Water resistance. Ferroseed commonly runs Thunder Wave, which can cripple Poliwag. All of them can easily KO Poliwag as well, but Chinchou must be wary of Return, while Lileep and Ferroseed can be easily taken out by Wake-Up Slap. Pumpkaboo-XL and Frillish both fear Thief, but they also resist or are immune to Waterfall, are immune to Return and Wake-Up Slap, and can use Will-O-Wisp on Poliwag to halve its Attack.

**Faster Pokemon**: Diglett and especially Elekid can both OHKO Poliwag before it even gets the chance to use Belly Drum. Choice Scarf users such as Chinchou and Magnemite also give Poliwag a lot of trouble, as they can OHKO Poliwag while generating momentum for their team.

**Priority**: Priority users such as Zigzagoon and Croagunk can give Poliwag problems, as Poliwag has no priority moves. Fake Out users, in particular Aipom and Meowth, can continually switch in and out and easily defeat Poliwag.

 

[Drew]

ready freddy

 

[Xayah]

[OVERVIEW]

• Emphasise how vulnerable it is to being revenge killed by Scarfers and prio users because of terrible defenses and no priority of its own

[SET]
name: Belly Drum

good

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

• Why should all Poliwag's utilize BDrum? What does it do for it? Clarify
• Mention that Hypnosis's accuracy makes it unreliable at times
• Mention that Thief also hits certain Ghost-types like Pumpkaboo and Frillish harder than Poliwag's other moves
• I think Wake-Up Slap should be mentioned here, since breaking through Ferroseed (and Lileep ig) is really neat.

Set Details
========

• Mention certain mons that the Jolly nature lets Poliwag outspeed (Doduo and Gastly are best), since it's currently unclear why you are running that and not Adamant
• Mention that Water Absorb notably gives it an immunity to Aqua Jet, meaning it is revenge killed slightly less easily

Usage Tips
=======

• Just say to converve Poliwag for the late game, not its HP. A little bit clearer that way
• Mention that Scarf users and prio users should be eliminated before attempting a sweep, as they can easily revenge kill Poliwag, especially if it is weakened.

Team Options
========

• Mention Dark-types and especially Pursuit trappers, especially if Poliwag isn't running Thief, since they can beat Pumpkaboo and Frillish, which otherwise completely prevent a sweep.
• Mention examples in your VoltTurn line. Also, specify slow VoltTurners (fast VoltTurners don't get Poli in for free very easily)

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

• Remove Wake-Up Slap since it's in Moves now
• Add Encore as an alternative to Hypnosis for not missing, but say that it relies on a foe using a status move
• Add Z-Hypnosis as a way of boosting Poliwag's Speed meaning it doesn't get revenge killed as easily by Scarfers, while also putting a foe to sleep to give it an opportunity to set up BDrum, but mention that a lack of BJuice means Poliwag is weaker to priority, and that Hypnosis's low accuracy means that this is a very risky strategy.
• Add Refresh as a way of removing paralysis/burns from Poliwag after it sets up, but say it lacks the moveslot for it

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

• Mention that Chinchou has to be careful of +6 Return, while Lileep and Ferro have to watch for Wake-Up Slap
• Gastly isn't faster.
• Mention examples of Fake Out users

QC 1/3, nice work

New QC stamp! Sorry for doing this while tired, hope I wasn't too stupid.

 

[Drew]

[OVERVIEW]

• Emphasise how vulnerable it is to being revenge killed by Scarfers and prio users because of terrible defenses and no priority of its own

[SET]
name: Belly Drum

good

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

• Why should all Poliwag's utilize BDrum? What does it do for it? Clarify
• Mention that Hypnosis's accuracy makes it unreliable at times
• Mention that Thief also hits certain Ghost-types like Pumpkaboo and Frillish harder than Poliwag's other moves
• I think Wake-Up Slap should be mentioned here, since breaking through Ferroseed (and Lileep ig) is really neat.

Set Details
========

• Mention certain mons that the Jolly nature lets Poliwag outspeed (Doduo and Gastly are best), since it's currently unclear why you are running that and not Adamant
• Mention that Water Absorb notably gives it an immunity to Aqua Jet, meaning it is revenge killed slightly less easily

Usage Tips
=======

• Just say to converve Poliwag for the late game, not its HP. A little bit clearer that way
• Mention that Scarf users and prio users should be eliminated before attempting a sweep, as they can easily revenge kill Poliwag, especially if it is weakened.

Team Options
========

• Mention Dark-types and especially Pursuit trappers, especially if Poliwag isn't running Thief, since they can beat Pumpkaboo and Frillish, which otherwise completely prevent a sweep.
• Mention examples in your VoltTurn line. Also, specify slow VoltTurners (fast VoltTurners don't get Poli in for free very easily)

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

• Remove Wake-Up Slap since it's in Moves now
• Add Encore as an alternative to Hypnosis for not missing, but say that it relies on a foe using a status move
• Add Z-Hypnosis as a way of boosting Poliwag's Speed meaning it doesn't get revenge killed as easily by Scarfers, while also putting a foe to sleep to give it an opportunity to set up BDrum, but mention that a lack of BJuice means Poliwag is weaker to priority, and that Hypnosis's low accuracy means that this is a very risky strategy.
• Add Refresh as a way of removing paralysis/burns from Poliwag after it sets up, but say it lacks the moveslot for it

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

• Mention that Chinchou has to be careful of +6 Return, while Lileep and Ferro have to watch for Wake-Up Slap
• Gastly isn't faster.
• Mention examples of Fake Out users

QC 1/3, nice work

New QC stamp! Sorry for doing this while tired, hope I wasn't too stupid.

implemented

 

[Hilomilo]

Overview
* Specify that Poliwag makes a decent sweeper for offensive teams (seems obvious but the overview should at some point specify which kinds of teams Poliwag fits best on).
* I wouldn't say that Zigzagoon and Magby have an easier time sweeping and access to priority, moreso that they have an easier time sweeping due to their access to priority. Say that and also because of their better coverage options.
* In your fourth line, replace "being able to even get to the point of sweeping" with "finding reliable setup opportunities" - it sounds better and is clearer this way.
* I'd add that because of its flaws, Poliwag requires a lot of support to reliably sweep and as such can struggle to justify being used over other offensive Water-types and Belly Drum users.

Set
Looks good

Moves
* I think that the Belly Drum line should be modified, since right now what you have is sort of fluff. Just say that Belly Drum is mandatory for securing Poliwag's niche, as well as boosting its Attack to extremely threatening levels.
* Saying that Waterfall should be utilized often unless an opponent resists that attack is better for usage tips - just say that when boosted, Waterfall hits everything that doesn't resist it for huge damage.
* Expand your Return line a little in giving us some examples of Pokemon it can hit (Mareanie, Foongus, and Shellder all work as examples).
* Don't say Wake-Up Slap 'deserves a mention' since that sounds rather odd. Just say that it's an option for hitting Ferro and Lileep, and also clarify that they otherwise wall Poliwag.

Set Details
* You don't need to say anything about Poliwag's other abilities, they're irrelevant. Instead, when talking about Water Absorb, say that it's Poliwag's most useful ability and can help it to avoid Aqua Jet and potentially restore chip damage by switching into Water-type attacks.

Usage Tips
* In your line about getting Poliwag into play, also say that it can come into play after a teammate has fainted.
* You should add here that bulky Grass-type Pokemon bar Foongus should be removed. Both Ferroseed and Pumpkaboo-XL wall Poliwag, so use both as examples.
* Also add that unless Poliwag is running thief, Frillish should also be removed if it's on the opposing team, as it also walls Poliwag completely.

Team Options
* This looks good. All I think you should do is give more examples of checks to Water- and Grass-types, since one isn't enough.

Other Options
* I wouldn't say "Poliwag is possibly the best Swift Swim abuser" since that honestly just sounds kind of awkward and unprofessional. Change it to something like "Poliwag can try functioning as a rain sweeper thanks to its Swift Swim ability."
* In your Protect line, change 'but that's about it' to 'but Poliwag has trouble finding room for the move, which doesn't do anything else of use anyway.' (sounds a lot better and not as unprofessional this way)
* Move Z-Hypnosis to the top of this section, as it's Poliwag's best other option.

Checks and Counters
* I think that Pumpkaboo-XL and Frillish should be given specific mentions in your bulky water resist section. Say that while both fear thief, they're immune to both Return and Wake-Up Slap and easily force Poliwag out with powerful STAB attacks.
* In your faster pokes section, replace 'can both give their teams a lot more momentum.' with 'can both OHKO Poliwag while generating momentum for their team.' It sounds better and clearer this way.

Make sure all of these changes are implemented, and give yourself QC 2/3

As always, great work! :]

 

[Drew]

Overview
* Specify that Poliwag makes a decent sweeper for offensive teams (seems obvious but the overview should at some point specify which kinds of teams Poliwag fits best on).
* I wouldn't say that Zigzagoon and Magby have an easier time sweeping and access to priority, moreso that they have an easier time sweeping due to their access to priority. Say that and also because of their better coverage options.
* In your fourth line, replace "being able to even get to the point of sweeping" with "finding reliable setup opportunities" - it sounds better and is clearer this way.
* I'd add that because of its flaws, Poliwag requires a lot of support to reliably sweep and as such can struggle to justify being used over other offensive Water-types and Belly Drum users.

Set
Looks good

Moves
* I think that the Belly Drum line should be modified, since right now what you have is sort of fluff. Just say that Belly Drum is mandatory for securing Poliwag's niche, as well as boosting its Attack to extremely threatening levels.
* Saying that Waterfall should be utilized often unless an opponent resists that attack is better for usage tips - just say that when boosted, Waterfall hits everything that doesn't resist it for huge damage.
* Expand your Return line a little in giving us some examples of Pokemon it can hit (Mareanie, Foongus, and Shellder all work as examples).
* Don't say Wake-Up Slap 'deserves a mention' since that sounds rather odd. Just say that it's an option for hitting Ferro and Lileep, and also clarify that they otherwise wall Poliwag.

Set Details
* You don't need to say anything about Poliwag's other abilities, they're irrelevant. Instead, when talking about Water Absorb, say that it's Poliwag's most useful ability and can help it to avoid Aqua Jet and potentially restore chip damage by switching into Water-type attacks.

Usage Tips
* In your line about getting Poliwag into play, also say that it can come into play after a teammate has fainted.
* You should add here that bulky Grass-type Pokemon bar Foongus should be removed. Both Ferroseed and Pumpkaboo-XL wall Poliwag, so use both as examples.
* Also add that unless Poliwag is running thief, Frillish should also be removed if it's on the opposing team, as it also walls Poliwag completely.

Team Options
* This looks good. All I think you should do is give more examples of checks to Water- and Grass-types, since one isn't enough.

Other Options
* I wouldn't say "Poliwag is possibly the best Swift Swim abuser" since that honestly just sounds kind of awkward and unprofessional. Change it to something like "Poliwag can try functioning as a rain sweeper thanks to its Swift Swim ability."
* In your Protect line, change 'but that's about it' to 'but Poliwag has trouble finding room for the move, which doesn't do anything else of use anyway.' (sounds a lot better and not as unprofessional this way)
* Move Z-Hypnosis to the top of this section, as it's Poliwag's best other option.

Checks and Counters
* I think that Pumpkaboo-XL and Frillish should be given specific mentions in your bulky water resist section. Say that while both fear thief, they're immune to both Return and Wake-Up Slap and easily force Poliwag out with powerful STAB attacks.
* In your faster pokes section, replace 'can both give their teams a lot more momentum.' with 'can both OHKO Poliwag while generating momentum for their team.' It sounds better and clearer this way.

Make sure all of these changes are implemented, and give yourself QC 2/3

As always, great work! :]

implemented and written up

 

[churine]

beep boop amcheck here beep boop

overview and set are good

in moves, "Poliwag should always use Belly Drum, as it boosts its Attack an to an extreme level." that wording implies i should use Belly Drum every turn, rather than being its main niche. change the wording a bit, and i also caught a bit of a gp thing as well in that same sentence so put that in too.

in usage tips, don't say that hypnosis just cripples the foe, mention how it puts them to sleep, rendering them helpless.

in team options, mention that Memento pretty much forces the opponent to switch, allowing Poliwag to get a free turn to set up Belly Drum.
"can help threaten some of Poliwag's greatest foes." that greatest foes part seems kinda off, reword it a bit, then say it eases Poliwag's cleanup or something similar.
give examples of Pursuit trappers.

in checks & counters, say that Ferroseed can paralyze Poliwag making it significantly easier to revenge kill.
remove the bracket for (in the case of frillish...), and i'd probably move that point to the end of the sentence.
also mention that Pumpkaboo-XL and Frillish can also burn Poliwag with WoW, making it a lot less threatening.
you dont really say how the scarfers can generate momentum (using volt switch)

good shit

 

[Corporal Levi]

AD Thunderboy had this to say: https://pastebin.com/LYiBdPDC

I had a look through as well and the above seems to cover everything, nice work! 3/3

 

[Wob]

hey, GP amcheck, standard colours

Hide

[OVERVIEW]

With an its (this sounds like poliwag needs an excellent speed stat and access to belly drum to be a decent sweeper) excellent Speed stat and access to Belly Drum, Poliwag can make a decent sweeper for offensive teams. Access Its access to Hypnosis can also help it set up even easier and gives it a small niche over other Belly Drum users. However, (AC) better Belly Drum users such as Zigzagoon and, to an extent, Magby, do a much better job at sweeping due to their access to good priority options. Poliwag is also held back by its relatively small movepool and paper-thin defenses, which keep it from finding reliable setup opportunities. It is incredibly vulnerable to being revenge killed by Choice Scarf or priority users, (RC) as well. Finally, Poliwag needs a lot of support to even be worth using over almost any other offensive Water-types and Belly Drum users.

[SET]
name: Belly Drum
move 1: Belly Drum
move 2: Waterfall
move 3: Hypnosis / Thief
move 4: Return / Thief
item: Berry Juice
ability: Water Absorb
nature: Jolly
evs: 116 HP / 196 Atk / 196 Spe

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

Poliwag should always run Belly Drum, as it boosts its Attack to an extreme extremely high level (clearer). Waterfall is Poliwag's main STAB option and, (AC) when boosted, can hit anything that doesn't resist Water for huge damage. Hypnosis allows Poliwag to set up easier by making its opponent foe (opponent is opposing player) essentially immobile for a period of time, but its poor accuracy can be quite unreliable. Return is a good option and covers all types Pokemon (those examples aren't types) that Waterfall does not, such as Mareanie, Foongus, and Shellder. Thief is an alternate coverage option that can be used to remove opponents' foes' items after Poliwag has consumed its Berry Juice, as well as hitting hit Pumpkaboo and Frillish, two Pokemon that otherwise wall Poliwag. Wake-Up Slap is another option, as it can hit Ferroseed and Lileep, Pokemon that would otherwise wall Poliwag.

Set Details
========

Poliwag needs Berry Juice to restore its HP after a Belly Drum. Poliwag's EVs and Jolly nature help maximize its power and let it outspeed Doduo and Gastly. An even numbered HP stat is essential to activate Berry Juice and, (AC) as such, (AC) the remaining 116 EVs are put into HP to help achieve this. Water Absorb is Poliwag's most useful ability, as it lets it avoid Aqua Jet, Scald burns, and other potential chip damage from other Water-types.

Usage Tips
========

Be sure to conserve Poliwag for late game the late-game, as its primary role is as a late game late-game sweeper. However, sometimes Poliwag can come into in on more passive Pokemon such as Spritzee and proceed to sweep. Also, avoid switching Poliwag into attacks, as its paper thin paper-thin defenses will usually result in it falling being KOed. The one exception to this would be is switching into Water-type attacks, as Water Absorb will absorb them, although this is incredibly dangerous and should only be done when you are sure your opponent will use a Water-type move. Instead try to get Poliwag in by a U-Turn or Volt Turn user, or after one of your Pokemon has fainted. Before you set up, it is a good idea to use Hypnosis to cripple your opponent foe by putting them to sleep. Be sure to eliminate all revenge killers,: (ASC) primarily faster Pokemon, priority users, and Abra, as they can stop Poliwag's sweep quite quickly. Also, (AC) be sure to eliminate Ferroseed and Lileep if you are not running Wake-Up Slap, and Frillish and Pumpkaboo-XL if you are not running Thief.

Team Options
========

Slow U-turn or Volt Switch users, such as Chinchou, Vullaby, and Mienfoo can help easily get Poliwag in without it suffering any damage. Sticky Web support from the likes of Surskit can help Poliwag outspeed Choice Scarf users such as Chinchou, (AC) and Mienfoo, (AC) and certain faster Pokemon, mainly Elekid and Diglett. Other hazards from Dwebble, Pawniard, or Onix can help break Sturdy and Focus Sash users for Poliwag to more easily sweep through. Memento support from Cottonee or Diglett can be helpful to cripple opponents foes to a point where they essentially need to switch out, (RC) while also safely getting Poliwag in. Pancham can also do this with Parting Shot and has the benefit of being able to beat Ferroseed for Poliwag, as well as is being able to function as a slow pivot. Furthermore, checks to bulky Grass- and Water-types such as Foongus and Snivy can help ease Poliwag's job of cleaning up. Dark-types, particularly Pursuit trappers such as Alolan Grimer and Pawniard, can eliminate Ghost-types if Poliwag is not running Thief.

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

Z-Hypnosis can also be used to boost Poliwag's Speed, but Poliwag must give up Berry Juice to do so, which it usually can't afford. Poliwag can try functioning as a rain sweeper thanks to its Swift Swim ability, but rain is very lack luster lackluster, as its main setters and abusers aren't very good. Protect can protect Poliwag from Fake Out users, but Poliwag has trouble finding room for the move, which doesn't do anything else of use anyway. Encore is a potential alternative to Hypnosis that doesn't miss, but it is ironically less reliable, (AC) as if your foe attacks with a powerful move you will most likely be KOed anyway. Refresh can be used to clear Poliwag of status conditions, but it forces Poliwag it to give up a move slot moveslot.

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

**Bulky Water-type Resists**: Chinchou, Lileep, and Ferroseed all are threats to Poliwag due to their bulky nature and Water resistances, Ferroseed commonly running runs Thunder Wave, (AC) which can cripple Poliwag. All of them can also easily KO Poliwag as well, however Chinchou must be wary of Return, while Lileep and Ferroseed can be easily taken out by Wake-Up Slap if it decides to run it. Pumpkaboo-XL and Frillish both fear Thief, but they also resist (or in the case of Frillish, are immune to) Waterfall, as well as being are immune to Return and Wake-Up Slap, and can use Will-O-Wisp on Poliwag.

**Faster Pokemon**: Diglett and especially Elekid can both OHKO Poliwag before it even gets the chance to use Belly Drum. Choice Scarf users such as Chinchou and Magnemite also give Poliwag a lot of trouble, (AC) as they can both OHKO Poliwag while generating momentum for their team.

**Priority**: Priority users such as Zigzagoon and Croagunk can give Poliwag problems, (AC) as Poliwag has no priority moves. Fake Out users, in particular Aipom and Meowth, can continually switch in and out and easily defeat Poliwag.

 

[Drew]

hey, GP amcheck, standard colours

Hide

[OVERVIEW]

With an its (this sounds like poliwag needs an excellent speed stat and access to belly drum to be a decent sweeper) excellent Speed stat and access to Belly Drum, Poliwag can make a decent sweeper for offensive teams. Access Its access to Hypnosis can also help it set up even easier and gives it a small niche over other Belly Drum users. However, (AC) better Belly Drum users such as Zigzagoon and, to an extent, Magby, do a much better job at sweeping due to their access to good priority options. Poliwag is also held back by its relatively small movepool and paper-thin defenses, which keep it from finding reliable setup opportunities. It is incredibly vulnerable to being revenge killed by Choice Scarf or priority users, (RC) as well. Finally, Poliwag needs a lot of support to even be worth using over almost any other offensive Water-types and Belly Drum users.

[SET]
name: Belly Drum
move 1: Belly Drum
move 2: Waterfall
move 3: Hypnosis / Thief
move 4: Return / Thief
item: Berry Juice
ability: Water Absorb
nature: Jolly
evs: 116 HP / 196 Atk / 196 Spe

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

Poliwag should always run Belly Drum, as it boosts its Attack to an extreme extremely high level (clearer). Waterfall is Poliwag's main STAB option and, (AC) when boosted, can hit anything that doesn't resist Water for huge damage. Hypnosis allows Poliwag to set up easier by making its opponent foe (opponent is opposing player) essentially immobile for a period of time, but its poor accuracy can be quite unreliable. Return is a good option and covers all types Pokemon (those examples aren't types) that Waterfall does not, such as Mareanie, Foongus, and Shellder. Thief is an alternate coverage option that can be used to remove opponents' foes' items after Poliwag has consumed its Berry Juice, as well as hitting hit Pumpkaboo and Frillish, two Pokemon that otherwise wall Poliwag. Wake-Up Slap is another option, as it can hit Ferroseed and Lileep, Pokemon that would otherwise wall Poliwag.

Set Details
========

Poliwag needs Berry Juice to restore its HP after a Belly Drum. Poliwag's EVs and Jolly nature help maximize its power and let it outspeed Doduo and Gastly. An even numbered HP stat is essential to activate Berry Juice and, (AC) as such, (AC) the remaining 116 EVs are put into HP to help achieve this. Water Absorb is Poliwag's most useful ability, as it lets it avoid Aqua Jet, Scald burns, and other potential chip damage from other Water-types.

Usage Tips
========

Be sure to conserve Poliwag for late game the late-game, as its primary role is as a late game late-game sweeper. However, sometimes Poliwag can come into in on more passive Pokemon such as Spritzee and proceed to sweep. Also, avoid switching Poliwag into attacks, as its paper thin paper-thin defenses will usually result in it falling being KOed. The one exception to this would be is switching into Water-type attacks, as Water Absorb will absorb them, although this is incredibly dangerous and should only be done when you are sure your opponent will use a Water-type move. Instead try to get Poliwag in by a U-Turn or Volt Turn user, or after one of your Pokemon has fainted. Before you set up, it is a good idea to use Hypnosis to cripple your opponent foe by putting them to sleep. Be sure to eliminate all revenge killers,: (ASC) primarily faster Pokemon, priority users, and Abra, as they can stop Poliwag's sweep quite quickly. Also, (AC) be sure to eliminate Ferroseed and Lileep if you are not running Wake-Up Slap, and Frillish and Pumpkaboo-XL if you are not running Thief.

Team Options
========

Slow U-turn or Volt Switch users, such as Chinchou, Vullaby, and Mienfoo can help easily get Poliwag in without it suffering any damage. Sticky Web support from the likes of Surskit can help Poliwag outspeed Choice Scarf users such as Chinchou, (AC) and Mienfoo, (AC) and certain faster Pokemon, mainly Elekid and Diglett. Other hazards from Dwebble, Pawniard, or Onix can help break Sturdy and Focus Sash users for Poliwag to more easily sweep through. Memento support from Cottonee or Diglett can be helpful to cripple opponents foes to a point where they essentially need to switch out, (RC) while also safely getting Poliwag in. Pancham can also do this with Parting Shot and has the benefit of being able to beat Ferroseed for Poliwag, as well as is being able to function as a slow pivot. Furthermore, checks to bulky Grass- and Water-types such as Foongus and Snivy can help ease Poliwag's job of cleaning up. Dark-types, particularly Pursuit trappers such as Alolan Grimer and Pawniard, can eliminate Ghost-types if Poliwag is not running Thief.

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

Z-Hypnosis can also be used to boost Poliwag's Speed, but Poliwag must give up Berry Juice to do so, which it usually can't afford. Poliwag can try functioning as a rain sweeper thanks to its Swift Swim ability, but rain is very lack luster lackluster, as its main setters and abusers aren't very good. Protect can protect Poliwag from Fake Out users, but Poliwag has trouble finding room for the move, which doesn't do anything else of use anyway. Encore is a potential alternative to Hypnosis that doesn't miss, but it is ironically less reliable, (AC) as if your foe attacks with a powerful move you will most likely be KOed anyway. Refresh can be used to clear Poliwag of status conditions, but it forces Poliwag it to give up a move slot moveslot.

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

**Bulky Water-type Resists**: Chinchou, Lileep, and Ferroseed all are threats to Poliwag due to their bulky nature and Water resistances, Ferroseed commonly running runs Thunder Wave, (AC) which can cripple Poliwag. All of them can also easily KO Poliwag as well, however Chinchou must be wary of Return, while Lileep and Ferroseed can be easily taken out by Wake-Up Slap if it decides to run it. Pumpkaboo-XL and Frillish both fear Thief, but they also resist (or in the case of Frillish, are immune to) Waterfall, as well as being are immune to Return and Wake-Up Slap, and can use Will-O-Wisp on Poliwag.

**Faster Pokemon**: Diglett and especially Elekid can both OHKO Poliwag before it even gets the chance to use Belly Drum. Choice Scarf users such as Chinchou and Magnemite also give Poliwag a lot of trouble, (AC) as they can both OHKO Poliwag while generating momentum for their team.

**Priority**: Priority users such as Zigzagoon and Croagunk can give Poliwag problems, (AC) as Poliwag has no priority moves. Fake Out users, in particular Aipom and Meowth, can continually switch in and out and easily defeat Poliwag.

implemented

 

[lotiasite]

hi, amcheck, implement what you like
add remove comments

amcheck

[OVERVIEW]

With its excellent Speed stat and access to Belly Drum, Poliwag can make a decent sweeper for offensive teams. Its access to Hypnosis can also help it set up even easier and gives it a small niche over other Belly Drum users. However, better Belly Drum users such as Zigzagoon and, to an extent, Magby, do a much better job at sweeping due to their access to good priority options. Poliwag is also held back by its relatively small movepool and paper-thin defenses, which keep it from finding reliable setup opportunities. It is incredibly vulnerable to being revenge killed by Choice Scarf or and priority users as well. Finally, Poliwag needs a lot of support to even be worth using over almost any other offensive Water-types and Belly Drum users.

[SET]
name: Belly Drum
move 1: Belly Drum
move 2: Waterfall
move 3: Hypnosis / Thief
move 4: Return / Thief
item: Berry Juice
ability: Water Absorb
nature: Jolly
evs: 116 HP / 196 Atk / 196 Spe

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

Poliwag should always run Belly Drum, as it (this is obvious because it's the name of the set] boosts its Poliwag's Attack to an extremely high level, allowing it to sweep. Waterfall is Poliwag's main STAB option and (fluff), when boosted, can hit anything that doesn't resist Water for huge damage. Hypnosis allows Poliwag to set up easier by making its foe essentially immobile for a period of time, but its poor accuracy can be quite unreliable. Return is a good option and covers all Pokemon that Waterfall does not, such as Mareanie, Foongus, and Shellder. Thief is an alternate coverage option that can be used to remove foes' items after Poliwag has consumed its Berry Juice, as well as hit Pumpkaboo (which pumpkaboo? assuming it's -XL bc that's what's said later) and Frillish, two Pokemon that otherwise wall Poliwag. Wake-Up Slap is another option, as it can hit Ferroseed and Lileep, Pokemon that which (repetition) would otherwise wall Poliwag.

Set Details
========

Poliwag needs Berry Juice to restore its HP after a Belly Drum. Poliwag's EVs and Jolly nature help maximize its power and let it outspeed Doduo and Gastly. An even numbered HP stat is essential to activate Berry Juice after a Belly Drum and, as such, the remaining 116 EVs are put into HP to achieve this. Water Absorb is Poliwag's most useful ability, as it lets it avoid Aqua Jet, Scald burns, and other potential chip damage from other Water-types.

Usage Tips
========

Be sure to conserve Poliwag for the late-game, as its primary role is as a late-game sweeper. However, sometimes Poliwag can come in on more passive Pokemon such as Spritzee and proceed to sweep. Also, avoid switching Poliwag into attacks, as its paper-thin defenses will usually result in it being KOed. The one exception to this is switching into Water-type attacks, as Water Absorb will absorb them, although this is incredibly dangerous and should only be done when you are sure your opponent will use a Water-type move. Instead, [ac] try to get Poliwag in by a Volt Twith a Volt Switch or U-turn user, or after one of your Pokemon has fainted. Before you set Poliwag sets up, it is a good idea to use Hypnosis to cripple your the foe by putting them to sleep. Be sure to eliminate all revenge killers: primarily faster Pokemon, priority users, and Abra, as they can stop Poliwag's sweep quite quickly. Also, be sure to eliminate Ferroseed and Lileep if you are Poliwag is not running Wake-Up Slap, [rc] and Frillish and Pumpkaboo-XL if you are Poliwag is not running Thief.

Team Options
========

Slow U-turn or Volt Switch users, [rc] such as Chinchou, Vullaby, and Mienfoo can help easily get Poliwag in without it suffering any damage. Sticky Web support from the likes of Surskit can help Poliwag outspeed Choice Scarf users such as Chinchou, Mienfoo, and certain faster Pokemon, mainly Elekid and Diglett. Other entry hazards from Dwebble, Pawniard, or Onix can help break Sturdy and Focus Sash users for Poliwag to more easily sweep. Memento support from Cottonee or Diglett can be helpful to cripple foes to a point where they essentially need to switch out while also safely getting Poliwag in. Pancham can also do this cripple foes and function as a slow pivot with Parting Shot and has the benefit of being able to beat Ferroseed for Poliwag, [rc] as well as being able to function as a slow pivot. Furthermore, checks to bulky Grass- and Water-types such as Foongus and Snivy can help ease Poliwag's job of cleaning up. Dark-types, particularly Pursuit trappers such as Alolan Grimer and Pawniard, can eliminate Ghost-types if Poliwag is not running Thief.

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

Z-Hypnosis Psychium Z with Hypnosis can also be used to boost Poliwag's Speed, but Poliwag must give up Berry Juice to do so, which it usually can't afford. Poliwag can try functioning as a rain sweeper thanks to its Swift Swim ability, but rain is very lackluster, as its main setters and abusers sweepers (abuse is a banned term; also, if "sweepers" doesn't work then try something else) aren't very good. Protect can protect Poliwag from Fake Out users, but Poliwag has trouble finding room for the move, which and it doesn't do anything else of use anyway. Encore is a potential alternative to Hypnosis that doesn't miss, but it is ironically less reliable, as if your the foe attacks with a powerful move you Poliwag will most likely be KOed anyway. Refresh can be used to clear Poliwag of status conditions, [rc] but it forces it to give up a moveslot.

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

**Bulky Water-type Resistsresistant Pokemon**: (cant use resists as a noun) Chinchou, Lileep, and Ferroseed all are threats to Poliwag due to their bulky nature and Water resistances, [rc] ("resistance to water" might work better here, but optional). [ap] Ferroseed commonly runs Thunder Wave, which can cripple Poliwag. All of them can easily KO Poliwag as well, however but Chinchou must be wary of Return, while Lileep and Ferroseed can be easily taken out by Wake-Up Slap if it Poliwag decides to run it. Pumpkaboo-XL and Frillish both fear Thief, but they also resist (or in the case of Frillish, are immune to) Waterfall, are immune to Return and Wake-Up Slap, and can use Will-O-Wisp on Poliwag to halve its Attack.

**Faster Pokemon**: Diglett and especially Elekid can both OHKO Poliwag before it even gets the chance to use Belly Drum. Choice Scarf users such as Chinchou and Magnemite also give Poliwag a lot of trouble, as they can both (doesn't work here, cause there's "such as") OHKO Poliwag while generating momentum for their team.

**Priority**: Priority users such as Zigzagoon and Croagunk can give Poliwag problems, as Poliwag has no priority moves. Fake Out users, in particular Aipom and Meowth, can continually switch in and out and easily defeat Poliwag.

 

[Drew]

hi, amcheck, implement what you like
add remove comments

amcheck

[OVERVIEW]

With its excellent Speed stat and access to Belly Drum, Poliwag can make a decent sweeper for offensive teams. Its access to Hypnosis can also help it set up even easier and gives it a small niche over other Belly Drum users. However, better Belly Drum users such as Zigzagoon and, to an extent, Magby, do a much better job at sweeping due to their access to good priority options. Poliwag is also held back by its relatively small movepool and paper-thin defenses, which keep it from finding reliable setup opportunities. It is incredibly vulnerable to being revenge killed by Choice Scarf or and priority users as well. Finally, Poliwag needs a lot of support to even be worth using over almost any other offensive Water-types and Belly Drum users.

[SET]
name: Belly Drum
move 1: Belly Drum
move 2: Waterfall
move 3: Hypnosis / Thief
move 4: Return / Thief
item: Berry Juice
ability: Water Absorb
nature: Jolly
evs: 116 HP / 196 Atk / 196 Spe

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

Poliwag should always run Belly Drum, as it (this is obvious because it's the name of the set] boosts its Poliwag's Attack to an extremely high level, allowing it to sweep. Waterfall is Poliwag's main STAB option and (fluff), when boosted, can hit anything that doesn't resist Water for huge damage. Hypnosis allows Poliwag to set up easier by making its foe essentially immobile for a period of time, but its poor accuracy can be quite unreliable. Return is a good option and covers all Pokemon that Waterfall does not, such as Mareanie, Foongus, and Shellder. Thief is an alternate coverage option that can be used to remove foes' items after Poliwag has consumed its Berry Juice, as well as hit Pumpkaboo (which pumpkaboo? assuming it's -XL bc that's what's said later) and Frillish, two Pokemon that otherwise wall Poliwag. Wake-Up Slap is another option, as it can hit Ferroseed and Lileep, Pokemon that which (repetition) would otherwise wall Poliwag.

Set Details
========

Poliwag needs Berry Juice to restore its HP after a Belly Drum. Poliwag's EVs and Jolly nature help maximize its power and let it outspeed Doduo and Gastly. An even numbered HP stat is essential to activate Berry Juice after a Belly Drum and, as such, the remaining 116 EVs are put into HP to achieve this. Water Absorb is Poliwag's most useful ability, as it lets it avoid Aqua Jet, Scald burns, and other potential chip damage from other Water-types.

Usage Tips
========

Be sure to conserve Poliwag for the late-game, as its primary role is as a late-game sweeper. However, sometimes Poliwag can come in on more passive Pokemon such as Spritzee and proceed to sweep. Also, avoid switching Poliwag into attacks, as its paper-thin defenses will usually result in it being KOed. The one exception to this is switching into Water-type attacks, as Water Absorb will absorb them, although this is incredibly dangerous and should only be done when you are sure your opponent will use a Water-type move. Instead, [ac] try to get Poliwag in by a Volt Twith a Volt Switch or U-turn user, or after one of your Pokemon has fainted. Before you set Poliwag sets up, it is a good idea to use Hypnosis to cripple your the foe by putting them to sleep. Be sure to eliminate all revenge killers: primarily faster Pokemon, priority users, and Abra, as they can stop Poliwag's sweep quite quickly. Also, be sure to eliminate Ferroseed and Lileep if you are Poliwag is not running Wake-Up Slap, [rc] and Frillish and Pumpkaboo-XL if you are Poliwag is not running Thief.

Team Options
========

Slow U-turn or Volt Switch users, [rc] such as Chinchou, Vullaby, and Mienfoo can help easily get Poliwag in without it suffering any damage. Sticky Web support from the likes of Surskit can help Poliwag outspeed Choice Scarf users such as Chinchou, Mienfoo, and certain faster Pokemon, mainly Elekid and Diglett. Other entry hazards from Dwebble, Pawniard, or Onix can help break Sturdy and Focus Sash users for Poliwag to more easily sweep. Memento support from Cottonee or Diglett can be helpful to cripple foes to a point where they essentially need to switch out while also safely getting Poliwag in. Pancham can also do this cripple foes and function as a slow pivot with Parting Shot and has the benefit of being able to beat Ferroseed for Poliwag, [rc] as well as being able to function as a slow pivot. Furthermore, checks to bulky Grass- and Water-types such as Foongus and Snivy can help ease Poliwag's job of cleaning up. Dark-types, particularly Pursuit trappers such as Alolan Grimer and Pawniard, can eliminate Ghost-types if Poliwag is not running Thief.

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

Z-Hypnosis Psychium Z with Hypnosis can also be used to boost Poliwag's Speed, but Poliwag must give up Berry Juice to do so, which it usually can't afford. Poliwag can try functioning as a rain sweeper thanks to its Swift Swim ability, but rain is very lackluster, as its main setters and abusers sweepers (abuse is a banned term; also, if "sweepers" doesn't work then try something else) aren't very good. Protect can protect Poliwag from Fake Out users, but Poliwag has trouble finding room for the move, which and it doesn't do anything else of use anyway. Encore is a potential alternative to Hypnosis that doesn't miss, but it is ironically less reliable, as if your the foe attacks with a powerful move you Poliwag will most likely be KOed anyway. Refresh can be used to clear Poliwag of status conditions, [rc] but it forces it to give up a moveslot.

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

**Bulky Water-type Resistsresistant Pokemon**: (cant use resists as a noun) Chinchou, Lileep, and Ferroseed all are threats to Poliwag due to their bulky nature and Water resistances, [rc] ("resistance to water" might work better here, but optional). [ap] Ferroseed commonly runs Thunder Wave, which can cripple Poliwag. All of them can easily KO Poliwag as well, however but Chinchou must be wary of Return, while Lileep and Ferroseed can be easily taken out by Wake-Up Slap if it Poliwag decides to run it. Pumpkaboo-XL and Frillish both fear Thief, but they also resist (or in the case of Frillish, are immune to) Waterfall, are immune to Return and Wake-Up Slap, and can use Will-O-Wisp on Poliwag to halve its Attack.

**Faster Pokemon**: Diglett and especially Elekid can both OHKO Poliwag before it even gets the chance to use Belly Drum. Choice Scarf users such as Chinchou and Magnemite also give Poliwag a lot of trouble, as they can both (doesn't work here, cause there's "such as") OHKO Poliwag while generating momentum for their team.

**Priority**: Priority users such as Zigzagoon and Croagunk can give Poliwag problems, as Poliwag has no priority moves. Fake Out users, in particular Aipom and Meowth, can continually switch in and out and easily defeat Poliwag.

implemented

 

[Sobi]

sorry for another amcheck! D: this should make the gpers job really easy, though!

amcheck

[OVERVIEW]

With its excellent Speed stat and access to Belly Drum, Poliwag can make a decent sweeper for offensive teams. Its access to Hypnosis can also help it set up and gives it a small niche over other Belly Drum users. However, better Belly Drum users such as Zigzagoon and, to an extent, Magby, (RC) do a much better job at sweeping due to their access to good priority options. Poliwag is also held back by its relatively small movepool and paper-thin defenses, which keep it from finding reliable setup opportunities. It is incredibly vulnerable to being revenge killed by Choice Scarf and priority users as well. Finally, Poliwag needs a lot of support to even be worth using over almost any other offensive Water-types and Belly Drum users. (idk i feel like singular works better here)

[SET]
name: Belly Drum
move 1: Belly Drum
move 2: Waterfall
move 3: Hypnosis / Thief
move 4: Return / Thief
item: Berry Juice
ability: Water Absorb
nature: Jolly
evs: 116 HP / 196 Atk / 196 Spe

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

Belly Drum boosts Poliwag's Attack to an extremely high level, allowing it to sweep. Waterfall, when boosted, can hit anything that doesn't resist Water for huge damage. Hypnosis allows Poliwag to set up easier by making its foe essentially temporarily immobile for a period of time, but its poor accuracy can be quite unreliable. Return covers all Pokemon that Waterfall does not, such as Mareanie, Foongus, and Shellder. Thief is an alternate coverage option that can be used to remove foes' items after Poliwag has consumed its Berry Juice, as well as hit Pumpkaboo-XL and Frillish, two Pokemon that otherwise wall Poliwag. Wake-Up Slap is another option, as it can hit Ferroseed and Lileep, which would otherwise wall Poliwag.

Set Details
========

Poliwag needs Berry Juice to restore its HP after a Belly Drum. Poliwag's EVs and Jolly nature help maximize its power and let it outspeed Doduo and Gastly. An even-numbered (AH) HP stat is essential to activate Berry Juice after a Belly Drum and, as such, the remaining 116 EVs are put into HP to achieve this. Water Absorb is Poliwag's most useful ability, as it lets it avoid Aqua Jet, Scald burns, and other potential chip damage from other Water-types.

Usage Tips
========

Be sure to conserve Poliwag for the late-game, as its primary role is as a late-game sweeper. However, sometimes Poliwag can come in on more passive Pokemon such as Spritzee and proceed to sweep. Also, avoid switching Poliwag into attacks, as its paper-thin defenses will usually result in it being KOed. The one exception to this is switching into Water-type attacks, as Water Absorb will absorb them, although this is incredibly dangerous and should only be done when you are sure your opponent will use a Water-type move. Instead, try to get Poliwag in with a Volt Switch or U-turn user, (RC) or after one of your Pokemon has fainted. Before Poliwag sets up, it is a good idea to use Hypnosis to cripple the foe by putting them to sleep. Be sure to eliminate all revenge killers: (remove) , (AC) primarily faster Pokemon, priority users, and Abra, as they can stop Poliwag's sweep quite quickly. Also, be sure to eliminate Ferroseed and Lileep if Poliwag is not running Wake-Up Slap and Frillish and Pumpkaboo-XL if Poliwag is not running Thief.

Team Options
========

Slow U-turn or Volt Switch users such as Chinchou, Vullaby, and Mienfoo can easily help easily get Poliwag get in (this sounded very strange) without it suffering any damage. Sticky Web support from the likes of Surskit can help Poliwag outspeed Choice Scarf users such as Chinchou, Mienfoo, and certain faster Pokemon, mainly Elekid and Diglett. Other entry hazards from Dwebble, Pawniard, or Onix can help break Sturdy and Focus Sash users for Poliwag to more easily sweep. Memento support from Cottonee or Diglett can be helpful to cripple foes to a point where they essentially need to switch out while also safely getting Poliwag in. Pancham can also cripple foes and function as a slow pivot with Parting Shot and has the benefit of being able to beat Ferroseed for Poliwag. Furthermore, checks to bulky Grass- and Water-types such as Foongus and Snivy can help ease Poliwag's job of cleaning up. Dark-types, particularly Pursuit trappers such as Alolan Grimer and Pawniard, can eliminate Ghost-types if Poliwag is not running Thief.

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

Psychium Z with Hypnosis can be used to boost Poliwag's Speed, but Poliwag must can't afford to give up Berry Juice to do so, which it usually can't afford. Poliwag can try functioning as a rain sweeper thanks to its Swift Swim ability, but rain is very lackluster, as its main setters and sweepers aren't very good. Protect can protect shield Poliwag from Fake Out users, but Poliwag has trouble finding room for the move, and it doesn't do anything else of use anyway. Encore is a potential alternative to Hypnosis that doesn't miss, but it is ironically less reliable, as if the foe attacks with a powerful move, (AC) Poliwag will most likely be KOed anyway. Refresh can be used to clear Poliwag of status conditions but forces it to give up a moveslot.

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

**Bulky Water-resistant Pokemon**: Chinchou, Lileep, and Ferroseed all are threats to Poliwag due to their bulky nature and Water resistance. Ferroseed commonly runs Thunder Wave, which can cripple Poliwag. All of them can easily KO Poliwag as well, (AC) but Chinchou must be wary of Return, while Lileep and Ferroseed can be easily taken out by Wake-Up Slap if Poliwag decides to run it. (implied) Pumpkaboo-XL and Frillish both fear Thief, but they also resist or are immune to Waterfall, are immune to Return and Wake-Up Slap, and can use Will-O-Wisp on Poliwag to halve its Attack.

**Faster Pokemon**: Diglett and especially Elekid can both OHKO Poliwag before it even gets the chance to use Belly Drum. Choice Scarf users such as Chinchou and Magnemite also give Poliwag a lot of trouble, as they can OHKO Poliwag while generating momentum for their team.

**Priority**: Priority users such as Zigzagoon and Croagunk can give Poliwag problems, as Poliwag has no priority moves. Fake Out users, in particular Aipom and Meowth, can continually switch in and out and easily defeat Poliwag.

 

[Drew]

sorry for another amcheck! D: this should make the gpers job really easy, though!

amcheck

[OVERVIEW]

With its excellent Speed stat and access to Belly Drum, Poliwag can make a decent sweeper for offensive teams. Its access to Hypnosis can also help it set up and gives it a small niche over other Belly Drum users. However, better Belly Drum users such as Zigzagoon and, to an extent, Magby, (RC) do a much better job at sweeping due to their access to good priority options. Poliwag is also held back by its relatively small movepool and paper-thin defenses, which keep it from finding reliable setup opportunities. It is incredibly vulnerable to being revenge killed by Choice Scarf and priority users as well. Finally, Poliwag needs a lot of support to even be worth using over almost any other offensive Water-types and Belly Drum users. (idk i feel like singular works better here)

[SET]
name: Belly Drum
move 1: Belly Drum
move 2: Waterfall
move 3: Hypnosis / Thief
move 4: Return / Thief
item: Berry Juice
ability: Water Absorb
nature: Jolly
evs: 116 HP / 196 Atk / 196 Spe

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

Belly Drum boosts Poliwag's Attack to an extremely high level, allowing it to sweep. Waterfall, when boosted, can hit anything that doesn't resist Water for huge damage. Hypnosis allows Poliwag to set up easier by making its foe essentially temporarily immobile for a period of time, but its poor accuracy can be quite unreliable. Return covers all Pokemon that Waterfall does not, such as Mareanie, Foongus, and Shellder. Thief is an alternate coverage option that can be used to remove foes' items after Poliwag has consumed its Berry Juice, as well as hit Pumpkaboo-XL and Frillish, two Pokemon that otherwise wall Poliwag. Wake-Up Slap is another option, as it can hit Ferroseed and Lileep, which would otherwise wall Poliwag.

Set Details
========

Poliwag needs Berry Juice to restore its HP after a Belly Drum. Poliwag's EVs and Jolly nature help maximize its power and let it outspeed Doduo and Gastly. An even-numbered (AH) HP stat is essential to activate Berry Juice after a Belly Drum and, as such, the remaining 116 EVs are put into HP to achieve this. Water Absorb is Poliwag's most useful ability, as it lets it avoid Aqua Jet, Scald burns, and other potential chip damage from other Water-types.

Usage Tips
========

Be sure to conserve Poliwag for the late-game, as its primary role is as a late-game sweeper. However, sometimes Poliwag can come in on more passive Pokemon such as Spritzee and proceed to sweep. Also, avoid switching Poliwag into attacks, as its paper-thin defenses will usually result in it being KOed. The one exception to this is switching into Water-type attacks, as Water Absorb will absorb them, although this is incredibly dangerous and should only be done when you are sure your opponent will use a Water-type move. Instead, try to get Poliwag in with a Volt Switch or U-turn user, (RC) or after one of your Pokemon has fainted. Before Poliwag sets up, it is a good idea to use Hypnosis to cripple the foe by putting them to sleep. Be sure to eliminate all revenge killers: (remove) , (AC) primarily faster Pokemon, priority users, and Abra, as they can stop Poliwag's sweep quite quickly. Also, be sure to eliminate Ferroseed and Lileep if Poliwag is not running Wake-Up Slap and Frillish and Pumpkaboo-XL if Poliwag is not running Thief.

Team Options
========

Slow U-turn or Volt Switch users such as Chinchou, Vullaby, and Mienfoo can easily help easily get Poliwag get in (this sounded very strange) without it suffering any damage. Sticky Web support from the likes of Surskit can help Poliwag outspeed Choice Scarf users such as Chinchou, Mienfoo, and certain faster Pokemon, mainly Elekid and Diglett. Other entry hazards from Dwebble, Pawniard, or Onix can help break Sturdy and Focus Sash users for Poliwag to more easily sweep. Memento support from Cottonee or Diglett can be helpful to cripple foes to a point where they essentially need to switch out while also safely getting Poliwag in. Pancham can also cripple foes and function as a slow pivot with Parting Shot and has the benefit of being able to beat Ferroseed for Poliwag. Furthermore, checks to bulky Grass- and Water-types such as Foongus and Snivy can help ease Poliwag's job of cleaning up. Dark-types, particularly Pursuit trappers such as Alolan Grimer and Pawniard, can eliminate Ghost-types if Poliwag is not running Thief.

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

Psychium Z with Hypnosis can be used to boost Poliwag's Speed, but Poliwag must can't afford to give up Berry Juice to do so, which it usually can't afford. Poliwag can try functioning as a rain sweeper thanks to its Swift Swim ability, but rain is very lackluster, as its main setters and sweepers aren't very good. Protect can protect shield Poliwag from Fake Out users, but Poliwag has trouble finding room for the move, and it doesn't do anything else of use anyway. Encore is a potential alternative to Hypnosis that doesn't miss, but it is ironically less reliable, as if the foe attacks with a powerful move, (AC) Poliwag will most likely be KOed anyway. Refresh can be used to clear Poliwag of status conditions but forces it to give up a moveslot.

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

**Bulky Water-resistant Pokemon**: Chinchou, Lileep, and Ferroseed all are threats to Poliwag due to their bulky nature and Water resistance. Ferroseed commonly runs Thunder Wave, which can cripple Poliwag. All of them can easily KO Poliwag as well, (AC) but Chinchou must be wary of Return, while Lileep and Ferroseed can be easily taken out by Wake-Up Slap if Poliwag decides to run it. (implied) Pumpkaboo-XL and Frillish both fear Thief, but they also resist or are immune to Waterfall, are immune to Return and Wake-Up Slap, and can use Will-O-Wisp on Poliwag to halve its Attack.

**Faster Pokemon**: Diglett and especially Elekid can both OHKO Poliwag before it even gets the chance to use Belly Drum. Choice Scarf users such as Chinchou and Magnemite also give Poliwag a lot of trouble, as they can OHKO Poliwag while generating momentum for their team.

**Priority**: Priority users such as Zigzagoon and Croagunk can give Poliwag problems, as Poliwag has no priority moves. Fake Out users, in particular Aipom and Meowth, can continually switch in and out and easily defeat Poliwag.

no more amchecks pls send help ;_; But seriously implemented

 

[Fireflame]

Remove Add Comments (AC)= add comma (RC)= remove comma (AH)= add hyphen (RH)= remove hyphen

Hide

[OVERVIEW]

With its excellent Speed stat and access to Belly Drum, Poliwag can make a decent sweeper for offensive teams. Its access to Hypnosis can also help it set up and gives it a small niche over other Belly Drum users. However, better Belly Drum users such as Zigzagoon and, to an extent, Magby do a much better job at sweeping due to their access to good priority options. Poliwag is also held back by its relatively small movepool and paper-thin defenses, which keep it from finding reliable setup opportunities. It is incredibly vulnerable to being revenge killed by Choice Scarf and priority users as well. Finally, Poliwag needs a lot of support to even be worth using over almost any other offensive Water-types and Belly Drum users.

[SET]
name: Belly Drum
move 1: Belly Drum
move 2: Waterfall
move 3: Hypnosis / Thief
move 4: Return / Thief
item: Berry Juice
ability: Water Absorb
nature: Jolly
evs: 116 HP / 196 Atk / 196 Spe

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

Belly Drum boosts Poliwag's Attack to an extremely high level, allowing it to sweep. Waterfall, when boosted, can hit anything that doesn't resist Water it for huge damage. Hypnosis allows Poliwag to set up easier by making its foe temporarily immobile, but its poor accuracy can be quite unreliable. Return covers all Pokemon that Waterfall does not, such as Mareanie, Foongus, and Shellder. Thief is an alternate coverage option that can be used to remove foes' items after Poliwag has consumed its Berry Juice, as well as hit Pumpkaboo-XL and Frillish, two Pokemon that otherwise wall Poliwag. Wake-Up Slap is another option, as it can hit Ferroseed and Lileep, which would otherwise wall Poliwag.

Set Details
========

Poliwag needs Berry Juice to restore its HP after a Belly Drum. Poliwag's EVs and Jolly nature help maximize its power and let it outspeed Doduo and Gastly. An even-numbered HP stat is essential to activate Berry Juice after a Belly Drum,(AC) and,(RC) as such, the remaining 116 EVs are put into HP to achieve this. Water Absorb is Poliwag's most useful ability, as it lets it avoid Aqua Jet, Scald burns, and other potential chip damage from other Water-types.

Usage Tips
========

Be sure to conserve Poliwag for the late-game, as its primary role is as a late-game sweeper. However, sometimes Poliwag can come in on more passive Pokemon such as Spritzee and proceed to sweep. Also, avoid switching Poliwag into attacks, as its paper-thin defenses will usually result in it being KOed. The one exception to this is switching into Water-type attacks, as Water Absorb will absorb them, although this is incredibly dangerous and should only be done when you are sure your opponent will use a Water-type move. Instead, try to get Poliwag in with a Volt Switch or U-turn user or after one of your Pokemon has fainted. Before Poliwag sets up, it is a good idea to use Hypnosis to cripple the foe by putting them to sleep. Be sure to eliminate all revenge killers, primarily faster Pokemon, priority users, and Abra, as they can stop Poliwag's sweep quite quickly. Also, be sure to eliminate Ferroseed and Lileep if Poliwag is not running Wake-Up Slap and Frillish and Pumpkaboo-XL if Poliwag is not running Thief.

Team Options
========

Slow U-turn or Volt Switch users such as Chinchou, Vullaby, and Mienfoo can easily help Poliwag get in without it suffering any damage. Sticky Web support from the likes of Surskit can help Poliwag outspeed Choice Scarf users such as Chinchou, Mienfoo, and certain faster Pokemon, mainly Elekid and Diglett. Other entry hazards from Dwebble, Pawniard, or Onix can help break Sturdy and Focus Sash users for Poliwag to more easily sweep. Memento support from Cottonee or Diglett can be helpful to cripple foes to a point where they essentially need to switch out while also safely getting Poliwag in. Pancham can also cripple foes and function as a slow pivot with Parting Shot and has the benefit of being able to beat Ferroseed for Poliwag. Furthermore, checks to bulky Grass- and Water-types such as Foongus and Snivy can help ease Poliwag's job of cleaning up. Dark-types, particularly Pursuit trappers such as Alolan Grimer and Pawniard, can eliminate Ghost-types if Poliwag is not running Thief.

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

Psychium Z with Hypnosis can be used to boost Poliwag's Speed, but Poliwag can't afford to give up Berry Juice to do so. Poliwag can try functioning as a rain sweeper thanks to its Swift Swim ability, but rain is very lackluster, as its main setters and sweepers aren't very good. Protect can shield Poliwag from Fake Out users, but Poliwag has trouble finding room for the move, and it Protect (improve clarity; sounds like "it" is referring to Poliwag) doesn't do anything else of use anyway. Encore is a potential alternative to Hypnosis that doesn't miss, but it is ironically actually less reliable, as if the foe attacks with a powerful move, Poliwag will most likely be KOed anyway. Refresh can be used to clear Poliwag of status conditions but forces it to give up a moveslot.

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

**Bulky Water-resistant Pokemon**: Chinchou, Lileep, and Ferroseed all are threats to Poliwag due to their bulky nature bulk and Water resistance. Ferroseed commonly runs Thunder Wave, which can cripple Poliwag. All of them can easily KO Poliwag as well, but Chinchou must be wary of Return, while Lileep and Ferroseed can be easily taken out by Wake-Up Slap. Pumpkaboo-XL and Frillish both fear Thief, but they also resist or are immune to Waterfall, are immune to Return and Wake-Up Slap, and can use Will-O-Wisp on Poliwag to halve its Attack.

**Faster Pokemon**: Diglett and especially Elekid can both OHKO Poliwag before it even gets the chance to use Belly Drum. Choice Scarf users such as Chinchou and Magnemite also give Poliwag a lot of trouble, as they can OHKO Poliwag while generating momentum for their team.

**Priority**: Priority users such as Zigzagoon and Croagunk can give Poliwag problems, as Poliwag has no priority moves. Fake Out users, in particular Aipom and Meowth, can continually switch in and out and easily defeat Poliwag.

GP 1/2

 

[Drew]

Remove Add Comments (AC)= add comma (RC)= remove comma (AH)= add hyphen (RH)= remove hyphen

Hide

[OVERVIEW]

With its excellent Speed stat and access to Belly Drum, Poliwag can make a decent sweeper for offensive teams. Its access to Hypnosis can also help it set up and gives it a small niche over other Belly Drum users. However, better Belly Drum users such as Zigzagoon and, to an extent, Magby do a much better job at sweeping due to their access to good priority options. Poliwag is also held back by its relatively small movepool and paper-thin defenses, which keep it from finding reliable setup opportunities. It is incredibly vulnerable to being revenge killed by Choice Scarf and priority users as well. Finally, Poliwag needs a lot of support to even be worth using over almost any other offensive Water-types and Belly Drum users.

[SET]
name: Belly Drum
move 1: Belly Drum
move 2: Waterfall
move 3: Hypnosis / Thief
move 4: Return / Thief
item: Berry Juice
ability: Water Absorb
nature: Jolly
evs: 116 HP / 196 Atk / 196 Spe

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

Belly Drum boosts Poliwag's Attack to an extremely high level, allowing it to sweep. Waterfall, when boosted, can hit anything that doesn't resist Water it for huge damage. Hypnosis allows Poliwag to set up easier by making its foe temporarily immobile, but its poor accuracy can be quite unreliable. Return covers all Pokemon that Waterfall does not, such as Mareanie, Foongus, and Shellder. Thief is an alternate coverage option that can be used to remove foes' items after Poliwag has consumed its Berry Juice, as well as hit Pumpkaboo-XL and Frillish, two Pokemon that otherwise wall Poliwag. Wake-Up Slap is another option, as it can hit Ferroseed and Lileep, which would otherwise wall Poliwag.

Set Details
========

Poliwag needs Berry Juice to restore its HP after a Belly Drum. Poliwag's EVs and Jolly nature help maximize its power and let it outspeed Doduo and Gastly. An even-numbered HP stat is essential to activate Berry Juice after a Belly Drum,(AC) and,(RC) as such, the remaining 116 EVs are put into HP to achieve this. Water Absorb is Poliwag's most useful ability, as it lets it avoid Aqua Jet, Scald burns, and other potential chip damage from other Water-types.

Usage Tips
========

Be sure to conserve Poliwag for the late-game, as its primary role is as a late-game sweeper. However, sometimes Poliwag can come in on more passive Pokemon such as Spritzee and proceed to sweep. Also, avoid switching Poliwag into attacks, as its paper-thin defenses will usually result in it being KOed. The one exception to this is switching into Water-type attacks, as Water Absorb will absorb them, although this is incredibly dangerous and should only be done when you are sure your opponent will use a Water-type move. Instead, try to get Poliwag in with a Volt Switch or U-turn user or after one of your Pokemon has fainted. Before Poliwag sets up, it is a good idea to use Hypnosis to cripple the foe by putting them to sleep. Be sure to eliminate all revenge killers, primarily faster Pokemon, priority users, and Abra, as they can stop Poliwag's sweep quite quickly. Also, be sure to eliminate Ferroseed and Lileep if Poliwag is not running Wake-Up Slap and Frillish and Pumpkaboo-XL if Poliwag is not running Thief.

Team Options
========

Slow U-turn or Volt Switch users such as Chinchou, Vullaby, and Mienfoo can easily help Poliwag get in without it suffering any damage. Sticky Web support from the likes of Surskit can help Poliwag outspeed Choice Scarf users such as Chinchou, Mienfoo, and certain faster Pokemon, mainly Elekid and Diglett. Other entry hazards from Dwebble, Pawniard, or Onix can help break Sturdy and Focus Sash users for Poliwag to more easily sweep. Memento support from Cottonee or Diglett can be helpful to cripple foes to a point where they essentially need to switch out while also safely getting Poliwag in. Pancham can also cripple foes and function as a slow pivot with Parting Shot and has the benefit of being able to beat Ferroseed for Poliwag. Furthermore, checks to bulky Grass- and Water-types such as Foongus and Snivy can help ease Poliwag's job of cleaning up. Dark-types, particularly Pursuit trappers such as Alolan Grimer and Pawniard, can eliminate Ghost-types if Poliwag is not running Thief.

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

Psychium Z with Hypnosis can be used to boost Poliwag's Speed, but Poliwag can't afford to give up Berry Juice to do so. Poliwag can try functioning as a rain sweeper thanks to its Swift Swim ability, but rain is very lackluster, as its main setters and sweepers aren't very good. Protect can shield Poliwag from Fake Out users, but Poliwag has trouble finding room for the move, and it Protect (improve clarity; sounds like "it" is referring to Poliwag) doesn't do anything else of use anyway. Encore is a potential alternative to Hypnosis that doesn't miss, but it is ironically actually less reliable, as if the foe attacks with a powerful move, Poliwag will most likely be KOed anyway. Refresh can be used to clear Poliwag of status conditions but forces it to give up a moveslot.

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

**Bulky Water-resistant Pokemon**: Chinchou, Lileep, and Ferroseed all are threats to Poliwag due to their bulky nature bulk and Water resistance. Ferroseed commonly runs Thunder Wave, which can cripple Poliwag. All of them can easily KO Poliwag as well, but Chinchou must be wary of Return, while Lileep and Ferroseed can be easily taken out by Wake-Up Slap. Pumpkaboo-XL and Frillish both fear Thief, but they also resist or are immune to Waterfall, are immune to Return and Wake-Up Slap, and can use Will-O-Wisp on Poliwag to halve its Attack.

**Faster Pokemon**: Diglett and especially Elekid can both OHKO Poliwag before it even gets the chance to use Belly Drum. Choice Scarf users such as Chinchou and Magnemite also give Poliwag a lot of trouble, as they can OHKO Poliwag while generating momentum for their team.

**Priority**: Priority users such as Zigzagoon and Croagunk can give Poliwag problems, as Poliwag has no priority moves. Fake Out users, in particular Aipom and Meowth, can continually switch in and out and easily defeat Poliwag.

GP 1/2

Yes a real check! Implemented!

 

[Eyan]

thanks guys for making this really easy for me

GP 2/2
add/corrections remove comments

Hide

[OVERVIEW]

With its excellent Speed stat and access to Belly Drum, Poliwag can make a decent sweeper for offensive teams. Its access to Hypnosis can also help it set up and gives it a small niche over other Belly Drum users. However, better Belly Drum users such as Zigzagoon and, to an extent, Magby do a much better job at sweeping due to their access to good priority options. Poliwag is also held back by its relatively small movepool and paper-thin defenses, which keep it from finding reliable setup opportunities. It is incredibly vulnerable to being revenge killed by Choice Scarf and priority users as well. Finally, Poliwag needs a lot of support to even be worth using over almost any other offensive Water-types and Belly Drum users.

[SET]
name: Belly Drum
move 1: Belly Drum
move 2: Waterfall
move 3: Hypnosis / Thief
move 4: Return / Thief
item: Berry Juice
ability: Water Absorb
nature: Jolly
evs: 116 HP / 196 Atk / 196 Spe

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

Belly Drum boosts Poliwag's Attack to an extremely high level, allowing it to sweep. Waterfall, when boosted, can hit anything that doesn't resist it for huge damage. Hypnosis allows Poliwag to set up easier more easily by making immobilizing its foe temporarily immobile, but its poor accuracy can be quite unreliable. Return covers all Pokemon that Waterfall does not, such as Mareanie, Foongus, and Shellder. Thief is an alternate coverage option that can be used to remove foes' items after Poliwag has consumed its Berry Juice, as well as hit Pumpkaboo-XL and Frillish, two Pokemon that otherwise wall Poliwag. Wake-Up Slap is another option, as it can hit Ferroseed and Lileep, which would otherwise wall Poliwag.

Set Details
========

Poliwag needs Berry Juice to restore its HP after a Belly Drum. Poliwag's EVs and Jolly nature help maximize its power and let it outspeed Doduo and Gastly. An even-numbered HP stat is essential to activate Berry Juice after a Belly Drum, and as such, the remaining 116 EVs are put into HP to achieve this. Water Absorb is Poliwag's most useful ability, as it lets it avoid Aqua Jet, Scald burns, and other potential chip damage from other Water-types.

Usage Tips
========

Be sure to conserve Poliwag for late-game, as its primary role is as a late-game sweeper. However, sometimes Poliwag can come in on more passive Pokemon such as Spritzee and proceed to sweep. Also, avoid switching Poliwag into attacks, as its paper-thin defenses will usually result in it being KOed. The one exception to this is switching into Water-type attacks, as Water Absorb will absorb them, although this is incredibly dangerous and should only be done when you are sure your opponent the foe will use a Water-type move. Instead, try to get Poliwag in with a Volt Switch or U-turn user or after one of your Pokemon has fainted. Before Poliwag sets up, it is a good idea to use Hypnosis to cripple the foe by putting them to sleep. Be sure to eliminate all revenge killers, primarily faster Pokemon, priority users, and Abra, as they can stop Poliwag's sweep quite quickly. Also, be sure to eliminate Ferroseed and Lileep if Poliwag is not running Wake-Up Slap and Frillish and Pumpkaboo-XL if Poliwag is not running Thief.

Team Options
========

Slow U-turn or Volt Switch users such as Chinchou, Vullaby, and Mienfoo can easily help Poliwag get in without it suffering any damage. Sticky Web support from the likes of Surskit can help Poliwag outspeed Choice Scarf users such as Chinchou, Mienfoo, and certain faster Pokemon, mainly Elekid and Diglett. Other entry hazards from Dwebble, Pawniard, or Onix can help break Sturdy and Focus Sashes users (sounds like the hazards break the Pokemon, not breaking Sturdy or Sash) for Poliwag to more easily sweep. Memento support from Cottonee or Diglett can be helpful to cripple foes to a point where they essentially need to switch out while also safely getting Poliwag in. Pancham can also cripple foes and function as a slow pivot with Parting Shot and has the benefit of being able to beat Ferroseed for Poliwag. Furthermore, checks to bulky Grass- and Water-types such as Foongus and Snivy can help ease Poliwag's job of cleaning up. Dark-types, particularly Pursuit trappers such as Alolan Grimer and Pawniard, can eliminate Ghost-types if Poliwag is not running Thief.

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

Psychium Z with Hypnosis can be used to boost Poliwag's Speed, but Poliwag can't afford to give up Berry Juice to do so. Poliwag can try functioning as a rain sweeper thanks to its Swift Swim ability, but rain is very lackluster, as its main setters and sweepers aren't very good. Protect can shield Poliwag from Fake Out users, but Poliwag has trouble finding room for the move, and Protect doesn't do anything else of use anyway. Encore is a potential alternative to Hypnosis that doesn't miss, but it is actually less reliable, as if the foe attacks with a powerful move, Poliwag will most likely be KOed anyway. Refresh can be used to clear Poliwag of status conditions but forces it to give up a moveslot.

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

**Bulky Water-resistant Pokemon**: Chinchou, Lileep, and Ferroseed all are threats to Poliwag due to their bulk and Water resistance. Ferroseed commonly runs Thunder Wave, which can cripple Poliwag. All of them can easily KO Poliwag as well, but Chinchou must be wary of Return, while Lileep and Ferroseed can be easily taken out by Wake-Up Slap. Pumpkaboo-XL and Frillish both fear Thief, but they also resist or are immune to Waterfall, are immune to Return and Wake-Up Slap, and can use Will-O-Wisp on Poliwag to halve its Attack.

**Faster Pokemon**: Diglett and especially Elekid can both OHKO Poliwag before it even gets the chance to use Belly Drum. Choice Scarf users such as Chinchou and Magnemite also give Poliwag a lot of trouble, as they can OHKO Poliwag while generating momentum for their team.

**Priority**: Priority users such as Zigzagoon and Croagunk can give Poliwag problems, as Poliwag has no priority moves. Fake Out users, in particular Aipom and Meowth, can continually switch in and out and easily defeat Poliwag.

 

[Drew]

this is done and rigorously gped