Let's just make the last slot Tailwind / Me First / Aerial Ace on the CB set and then scrap Acrobatic as a slash for that set.
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Talonflame
- Thread starter Martin
- Start date
ok. Change made. should I put Acrobatics in OO?
Last edited:
Go ahead and do that.
Also, looking more closely, you don't convey how useful a Life Orb or Sky Plate are for their damage output on the first set. Charti Berry is suppose to be a lower sort of option on the first set and I'd like more emphasis placed on the offensive items.
Also, looking more closely, you don't convey how useful a Life Orb or Sky Plate are for their damage output on the first set. Charti Berry is suppose to be a lower sort of option on the first set and I'd like more emphasis placed on the offensive items.
OK. I'll do that.
K. done the change.
I think Charti Berry should be pushed to OO, on a mon that is so focused on recoil damage and is super frail anyways Charti seems like a waste of an item. As such, you could just change the EV spread to match that of the CB set. Other than that looks good.
QC 2/2
QC 2/2
The given EVs maximise Talonflame's power while giving it as much bulk as is needed. This lets Talonflame survive a Rock Slide from Mega Tyranitar with the Charti Berry and always survive the chip damage from sandstorm. The speed lets Talonflame quick-guard Mega Kangaskhan's Fake Out as well as prevent it from using Sucker Punch on the turn it mega evolves.
Clarify what kind nature kanga this outspeeds (i'm assuming adamant)
Trevenant can (just) take a Crunch from Tyranitar when at full health and retaliate with a powerful Horn Leech, as well as being able to play mind-games with the opponent by using Phantom Force.
Probably should just take out tree; as you said, they share weaknesses and don't have very good synergy together since tree usually wants to use trick room or is more concerned with staying alive than helping talonflame with ttar. use the first bullet to state that CB talonflame is less about support/longevity and more about just using brave bird, so you should support it by doing xyz. also, crunch tar isn't very common anymore.
Aegislash can, with the correct prediction, use King's Shield to cripple Aegislash offensively and cause it to switch which can often be dangerous in a 4v4 doubles environment. However, it must be wary of Flare Blitz.
i think in the checks/counters we should look more at what beats talonflame objectively and without too much prediction involved outside of 'watch out for x'. so, i think you should replace sword with mega manectric, who intimidates and ohkos with volt switch/tbolt, but has to be careful of flare blitz on the turn it mega evolves since talonflame can outspeed it then. talonflame's checks are pretty cut and dry, so organize that section into 4 bullet points: 1: Electric types (rotom-h/w, mega manectric, mega ampharos) 2: Rock types (ttar, rhydon/rhyperior, aerodactyl) 3: Water types (azumarill, gyarados, slowbro) and 4: pokemon with rock slide/stone edge that can live brave bird (garchomp, salamence). also mention on the last one that stuff can potentially randomly carry rock slide (e.g. mawile) that can catch bird off guard and ohko it.
e: seconding charti to OO
Clarify what kind nature kanga this outspeeds (i'm assuming adamant)
Trevenant can (just) take a Crunch from Tyranitar when at full health and retaliate with a powerful Horn Leech, as well as being able to play mind-games with the opponent by using Phantom Force.
Probably should just take out tree; as you said, they share weaknesses and don't have very good synergy together since tree usually wants to use trick room or is more concerned with staying alive than helping talonflame with ttar. use the first bullet to state that CB talonflame is less about support/longevity and more about just using brave bird, so you should support it by doing xyz. also, crunch tar isn't very common anymore.
Aegislash can, with the correct prediction, use King's Shield to cripple Aegislash offensively and cause it to switch which can often be dangerous in a 4v4 doubles environment. However, it must be wary of Flare Blitz.
i think in the checks/counters we should look more at what beats talonflame objectively and without too much prediction involved outside of 'watch out for x'. so, i think you should replace sword with mega manectric, who intimidates and ohkos with volt switch/tbolt, but has to be careful of flare blitz on the turn it mega evolves since talonflame can outspeed it then. talonflame's checks are pretty cut and dry, so organize that section into 4 bullet points: 1: Electric types (rotom-h/w, mega manectric, mega ampharos) 2: Rock types (ttar, rhydon/rhyperior, aerodactyl) 3: Water types (azumarill, gyarados, slowbro) and 4: pokemon with rock slide/stone edge that can live brave bird (garchomp, salamence). also mention on the last one that stuff can potentially randomly carry rock slide (e.g. mawile) that can catch bird off guard and ohko it.
e: seconding charti to OO
I've made changes, but I have left Charti Berry in due to testing I have done at events: it is incredibly useful on Talonflame.
I am thinking of putting Wacan Berry into OO. Could I have some opinions on that?
I will write it up when I have a few spare hours. I have only had 1/2 and hour today.
Okay, I'll be the third QC member to ask for Charti Berry to be moved to OO. For what use it has like I mentioned earlier, it's still not nearly as appealing since you're still recklessly removing your own HP with recoil. Taking a hit to die to yourself or a light breeze later on isn't worth dropping your measly base attack stat to even lower levels.
Please move it.
Please move it.
OK. I have made the change. I will start writing this up now.
Reserved for amcheck.
OVERVIEWOverview
#######
On paper, Talonflame looks like yet another mediocre pokemon, along with the rest ofits friends with the Flying-type pokemon found in the early routes. However, along with Staraptor's sky-high aAttack stat and access to two amazing abilities in Intimidate and Reckless, and as well as Diggersby's ability Huge Power, Talonflame has a saving grace (aside from it's awesome design) in the form of Gale Wings. This turns Talonflame into one of the premier pokemon for its ability to either destroy the opposing side Pokemon with powerful priority Brave Birds or support the team with its plethora of support options. However, the skies aren't completely clear for our flaming raptor, as it is weak to the common Water-, Electric- and Rock-type moves that plague this metagame. - the latter being quadruple - i It also has rather mediocre stats to back up its absolutely amazing ability, which limits Talonflame to an extent, and its movepool is nothing to write home about,: limiting its options. However dDon't let these shortcomings put you off using Talonflame, however, as it is by far one of the most potent attackers and effective supporters in the metagame.
Offensive Support
########
name: Standard
move 1: Brave Bird
move 2: Flare Blitz
move 3: Tailwind / Quick Guard
move 4: Protect / Quick Guard
ability: Gale Wings
item: Life Orb / Sky Plate
evs: 84 HP / 252 Atk / 172 Spe
nature: Adamant
Moves
========
Before I start, let me just say how useful it is having prioroty on every move in the game, as it giveslets Talonflame have a psuedo-prankster priority on Tailwind and the most powerful priorioty in the game when using Brave Bird. On the subject of Brave Bird, it is the main attack that Talonflame will be using due to Gale Wings: ripping through pokemon such as Amoongus. This is then backed up by Talonflame's secondary STAB move, Flare Blitz: a combination which the only sole type that resists it being the Rock-type, and dual-types without rock resisting being Electric-/Water- and Electric-/Fire-typing. Tailwind is powerful on Talonflame, serving the same purpose as it did on Thundurus, Tornadus and Whimsicott in the past: a speed-boost for the whole team that is backed by prioroty. Protect is a staple in doubles for its ability to scout what the opponent is doing and protect yourself from damage as everything is pressured in surviving with the ability to double-target. Quick Guard can be used in the place of Tailwind or Protect as the utility it provides is incredibly handy on Talonflame - blocking Fake Out from the likes of Mega Kangaskhan can give your teammate time to do something rather than be stopped cold for the turn, and it has been buffed in that it can no longer fail when used in succession.
Set Details
========
The EVs given in the set enable Talonflame to hit with as much power as possible, as well as outpacing max speed, jolly Mega Kangaskhan to block all of its Fake Outs with Quick Guard and preventing it from using Sucker Punch on you when you use Brave Bird. You can run max speed to outpace every Fake Out user in the metagame excluding max-speed positive-natured Raichu who you speed tie with and max-speed jolly Weavile who outpaces you outright. This will also enable you to outpace most opposing Talonflame, which could be a valuable asset. However, the two pokemon are too uncommon to bother investing EVs for and you can mess with opposing Talonflame by using Quick Guard anyway, so it is not recommended. The item of choice depends on what you want to do: have Talonflame haold a Sky Plate if you want it to have a little more survivability at the cost of a lot of power on your Flare Blitz as well as a little power on your Brave Bird, or use Life Orb if you just want it to hit as hard as possible, enabling you guarantee a 2HKO on 244 HP, Bold Coba Berry Ludicolo with Brave Bird, at the cost of survivability. An adamant nature is run as there is no actual reason to run a jolly nature as Talonflame will be using Brave Bird, Tailwind, Quick Guard or Protect most of the time anyway.
Usage Tips
========
Bring Talonflame in early-game to support the team with Tailwind and Quick Guard. Make your move accordingly based around the lead-matchup, using Quick Guard turn one when against a lead Kangaskhan, setting up Tailwind when you feel it is needed - such as when facing a particularly fast team - and use Brave Bird of Flare Blitz to deal with opposing threats such as Scizor and Ludicolo. As you can imagine, Talonflame-on-Talonflame matchups consist of many mind games - a bit like Aegislash's King's Shield - so make sure to play conservatively in those situations, predicting what the opponent is going to do and using your 45 seconds well, or you might just get KOd when you Brave Bird into the opponent's Quick Guard and get hit by Garchomp's Rock Slide.
Team Options
========
Steel-types such as Scizor and Aegislash are a great way to deal with the Rock-types that resist Talonflame's attacks, as well as having good synergy with Talonflame. Rotom-Wash and Rotom-Heat are good ways of dealing with opposing Talonflame, as well as dealing with opposing Mega Charizard Y better than Talonflame can, with Rotom-Heat even being able to take advantage of the sun that Mega Charizard Y summons. Rock-types such as Tyranitar and Aerodactyl can also deal with opposing Talonflame, and the former can also deal with Rotom-Heat well. Amoonguss walls the living hell out of Rotom-Wash, as well as threatening it back with a STAB Giga Drain. Mega Charizard Y can summon the sun, boosting the power of Talonflame's Flare Blitz, also conpensating for the slight lack of power when holding the Sky Plate. A combo of Talonflame and Garchomp is terrifying offensive core, covering each other's weaknesses offensively with Talonflame covering the Fairy-types and Ferrothorn, while Garchomp covers Talonflame and Rotom-Heat, just as examples.
Choice Band
########
name: Choice Band
move 1: Brave Bird
move 2: Flare Blitz
move 3: U-Turn
move 4: Tailwind / Me First / Aerial Ace
ability: Gale Wings
item: Choice Band
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
nature: Adamant
Moves
========
Brave Bird is a powerful move that Talonflame will generally be using due to STAB and Gale Wings. Flare Blitz is there mainly as a backup plan when it maybe isn't the best idea to lock yourself into Brave Bird, dealing with pokemon such as Scizor and Aegislash better than Brave Bird. U-Turn is useful on this set as it lets Talonflame switch out of a bad situation, as well as being Talonflame's best way to hit Tyranitar. The last moveslot is mainly a filler, but there are a few options to consider. Tailwind serves the same purpose as on the standard set, while also bluffing an un-choiced set. However, Talonflame is completely forced to switch out on the following turn as it will be clear that you are choiced if you are repeatedly using Tailwind dispite it being useless while in effect. Me First, on the other hand, supports Talonflame against pokemon such as Aerodactyl before it has set up Tailwind, stealing its Rock Slide and OHKOing it. However, it is a little situational, so keep that in mind when using it. Arial Ace can also be used in the fourth moveslot as a recoil-free way of dealing with weakened opponents. However, Talonflame is almost forced to switch out after using it as being locked into a weak move isn't recommended for obvious reasons.
Set Details
========
The EVs are there deliberately outpace opposing Talonflame while maximising Talonflame's firepower. Choice Band only augments this further, often turning Talonflame into a nuke that can just keep spamming Brave Bird with little worry. An adamant nature is there to maximise Talonflame's power. Furthermore, a jolly nature is pretty worthless when Talonflame is mostly just going to be spamming Brave Bird anyway.
Usage Tips
========
Brave Bird (almost) everything is the advice that I would give you when using this set as it will often get you further than doing any other sole action. However, clicking that button without thinking could cost you, so know when to not click Brave Bird. Write down the opposing team and refer to it whenever you are chosing what move you want to make Talonflame use, as you will often find situations mid-game where you regret clicking Brave Bird. Switch strategically to ensure that whatever you are switching in takes as little damage as possible, such as luring a Rock Slide with Talonflame and going into Garchomp to take the hit allowing Talonflame to come in later and lock itself into the appropriate move. General decisions to make are to use U-Turn when Tyranitar is on the opponent's side of the field, use Flare Blitz when Aegislash or Scizor is a threat to your team, and use your filler if you deem it appropriate. Other than that, you can usually safely use Brave Bird.
Team Options
========
Rotom-Wash and Rotom-Heat can deal with opposing Talonflame, and Rotom-Heat in particular can deal with Mega Charizard Y very well. Rotom-Mow, on the other hand, is a great way to deal with opposing Rotom-Wash and Tyranitar. Tyranitar can deal with Rotom-Heat, Talonflame and Mega Charizard Y well, however it must be wary of Talonflame's U-Turn and Mega Charizard Y's Solar Beam when it mega evolves after Tyranitar comes in. Fake Out users such as Mega Kangaskhan can prevent Rock Slides and enable Talonflame to U-Turn out safely to bring in a pokemon with a better matchup against the opponent's combo, or give it a turn to use Tailwind or something. The combination of Scizor and Talonflame is scary, dealing with the Rock-types that wall Talonflame while Talonflame deals with Aegislash that may be causing problems for Scizor that lack Thief. However, Scizor is still walled by Rotom-Wash and Rotom-Heat, and must be wary of the former's Will-O-Wisp and the latter's Overheat. Garchomp also makes a terrifying offensive core that can deal with Rotom-Heat. However, Garchomp must, once again, be wary of Will-O-Wisp from Rotom-Wash. Amoonguss is capable of dealing with Rotom-Wash and Tyranitar, as well as being capable of supporting Talonflame with Spore and Rage Powder. It must, however, be wary of the latter's Crunch and Rock Slide as the damage will start racking up. Finally, Haxorus can "break the mold" and deal 2HKO 252 HP / 44 Def Rotom-Wash and always OHKO Rotom-Heat with a Mold Breaker Earthquake.
Other Options
########
Talonflame doesn't exactly have the god of all movepools offensively, but it does have a very good supportive movepool and a few other offensive options to consider. Talonflame has a wide range of support moves that could go on the standard set, the most notable of which are Will-O-Wisp, Taunt and Roost. However, these are generally outclassed by the options that are currently in the set. Overheat could be used on the standard set with a mild nature and an EV spread of 172 Atk / 252 SpA / 84 Spe, however, such a set would be lacking in power when using Brave Bird, and it forces Talonflame to run Life Orb over Sky Plate which many players will find unattractive due to the high levels of recoil it causes when using Brave Bird. On the subject of Overheat, Talonflame has a range of special moves that it can use well such as Hidden Power, Fire Blast and Flamethrower and Solar Beam, however I have just listed Talonflame's entire (usable) special movepool in this one sentence, so it is definitely not recommended. Acrobatics can be used over Aerial Ace on the Choice Band set just in case Talonflame is on the wrong end of a Knock Off, however Knock Off is too uncommon to recommend preparing for and Aerial Ace is, ironically, stronger when Talonflame does have an item in tact. Charti Berry or Wacan Berry can be used with an EV spread of 172 HP / 252 Atk / 84 Spe to guarantee Talonflame to take Mega Tyranitar's Rock Slide - surviving the chip-damage from Sandstorm too - or modest, max special attack Rotom-Heat's Thunderbolt. Natural Gift can be used to give Talonflame a better way to deal with Rotom-Wash and Tyranitar by utilising the Liechi Berry and Salac Berry, respectively. While the former could have utility when it isn't used up by Natural Gift, the latter has little use outside of speeding up Talonflame's Flare Blitz: something which would lead to it being KOd anyway. Furthermore, Natural Gift can only be used once without access to Recycle or Harvest: two things that Talonflame lacks, so it isn't recommended. Finally, Talonflame has access to Swords Dance and Bulk Up to boost its stats, however Talonflame isn't going to be around for long enough to utilise these well, so it isn't advised.
Checks and Counters
########
**Electric-Types**:Rotom-Wash and Rotm-Heat are Talonflame's worst enemys, as Talonflame can deal little damage to either of them due to their typing. Mega Manectric is also a good way to deal with Talonflame due to Intimidate, however it must be wary of Flare Blitz in the sun. Mega Ampharos can tank Talonflame better than Mega Manectric, but doesn't have access to the high-utility Intimidate, unlike Mega Manectric.
**Rock-Types**:Tyranitar resists both of Talonflame's STAB attacks, although it must be wary of Talonflame's U-Turn as it will 2HKO 92 HP / 124 Def Tyrnaitar 5.1% of the time and with double-targeting posing an ever-present threat to Tyranitar, it could lead to it being KOd that turn. Rhydon and Rhyperior completely wall Talonflame, however they must be wary of one of Talonflame's usual teammates: Rotom-Wash. Aerodactyl poses a stiff competition with Talonflame in the roll of Tailwind-er, and can OHKO Talonflame with STAB Rock Slide. However, like Rhyperior, Aerodactyl must be wary of Rotom-Wash.
**Water-Types**:Slowbro and Rotom-Wash can tank Talonflame's attacks and retalliate with STAB Scald and Hydro Pump, respectively. However, the former must be wary of Talonflame's U-Turn. Azumarill is capable of tanking Talonflame's Brave Bird and can OHKO back with STAB Waterfall and Aqua Jet, the latter with some prior damage. However, it must be wary of Rotom-Wash who can OHKO it with Thunderbolt. Gyarados floats in the same boat as Azumarill, except trading Aqua Jet for Intimidate, making it an even better way to deal with Talonflame.
**The Rest**:Quick Guard users such as Mienshao and opposing Talonflame play mind games with Talonflame as they are capable of wasting Talonflame's turn with Quick Guard, enabling its teammate to cripple Talonflame with the attack of its choice or straight out KO Talonflame. Intimidating pokemon (pun intended) such as Scrafty and Salamence can weaken Talonflame and force it to switch out. Pokemon that will often carry Rock Slide for coverage, such as Garchomp and the aformentioned Salamence, can often take a hit and OHKO in return with said move.
Edit: will redo factoring in Blitzlefans check (unless this gets 2/2d)
#######
On paper, Talonflame looks like yet another mediocre pokemon, along with the rest of
Offensive Support
########
name: Standard
move 1: Brave Bird
move 2: Flare Blitz
move 3: Tailwind / Quick Guard
move 4: Protect / Quick Guard
ability: Gale Wings
item: Life Orb / Sky Plate
evs: 84 HP / 252 Atk / 172 Spe
nature: Adamant
Moves
========
Before I start, let me just say how useful it is having prioroty on every move in the game, as it gives
Set Details
========
The EVs given in the set enable Talonflame to hit with as much power as possible, as well as outpacing max speed, jolly Mega Kangaskhan to block all of its Fake Outs with Quick Guard and preventing it from using Sucker Punch on you when you use Brave Bird. You can run max speed to outpace every Fake Out user in the metagame excluding max-speed positive-natured Raichu who you speed tie with and max-speed jolly Weavile who outpaces you outright. This will also enable you to outpace most opposing Talonflame, which could be a valuable asset. However, the two pokemon are too uncommon to bother investing EVs for and you can mess with opposing Talonflame by using Quick Guard anyway, so it is not recommended. The item of choice depends on what you want to do: have Talonflame haold a Sky Plate if you want it to have a little more survivability at the cost of a lot of power on your Flare Blitz as well as a little power on your Brave Bird, or use Life Orb if you just want it to hit as hard as possible, enabling you guarantee a 2HKO on 244 HP, Bold Coba Berry Ludicolo with Brave Bird, at the cost of survivability. An adamant nature is run as there is no actual reason to run a jolly nature as Talonflame will be using Brave Bird, Tailwind, Quick Guard or Protect most of the time anyway.
Usage Tips
========
Bring Talonflame in early-game to support the team with Tailwind and Quick Guard. Make your move accordingly based around the lead-matchup, using Quick Guard turn one when against a lead Kangaskhan, setting up Tailwind when you feel it is needed - such as when facing a particularly fast team - and use Brave Bird of Flare Blitz to deal with opposing threats such as Scizor and Ludicolo. As you can imagine, Talonflame-on-Talonflame matchups consist of many mind games - a bit like Aegislash's King's Shield - so make sure to play conservatively in those situations, predicting what the opponent is going to do and using your 45 seconds well, or you might just get KOd when you Brave Bird into the opponent's Quick Guard and get hit by Garchomp's Rock Slide.
Team Options
========
Steel-types such as Scizor and Aegislash are a great way to deal with the Rock-types that resist Talonflame's attacks, as well as having good synergy with Talonflame. Rotom-Wash and Rotom-Heat are good ways of dealing with opposing Talonflame, as well as dealing with opposing Mega Charizard Y better than Talonflame can, with Rotom-Heat even being able to take advantage of the sun that Mega Charizard Y summons. Rock-types such as Tyranitar and Aerodactyl can also deal with opposing Talonflame, and the former can also deal with Rotom-Heat well. Amoonguss walls the living hell out of Rotom-Wash, as well as threatening it back with a STAB Giga Drain. Mega Charizard Y can summon the sun, boosting the power of Talonflame's Flare Blitz, also conpensating for the slight lack of power when holding the Sky Plate. A combo of Talonflame and Garchomp is terrifying offensive core, covering each other's weaknesses offensively with Talonflame covering the Fairy-types and Ferrothorn, while Garchomp covers Talonflame and Rotom-Heat, just as examples.
Choice Band
########
name: Choice Band
move 1: Brave Bird
move 2: Flare Blitz
move 3: U-Turn
move 4: Tailwind / Me First / Aerial Ace
ability: Gale Wings
item: Choice Band
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
nature: Adamant
Moves
========
Brave Bird is a powerful move that Talonflame will generally be using due to STAB and Gale Wings. Flare Blitz is there mainly as a backup plan when it maybe isn't the best idea to lock yourself into Brave Bird, dealing with pokemon such as Scizor and Aegislash better than Brave Bird. U-Turn is useful on this set as it lets Talonflame switch out of a bad situation, as well as being Talonflame's best way to hit Tyranitar. The last moveslot is mainly a filler, but there are a few options to consider. Tailwind serves the same purpose as on the standard set, while also bluffing an un-choiced set. However, Talonflame is completely forced to switch out on the following turn as it will be clear that you are choiced if you are repeatedly using Tailwind dispite it being useless while in effect. Me First, on the other hand, supports Talonflame against pokemon such as Aerodactyl before it has set up Tailwind, stealing its Rock Slide and OHKOing it. However, it is a little situational, so keep that in mind when using it. Arial Ace can also be used in the fourth moveslot as a recoil-free way of dealing with weakened opponents. However, Talonflame is almost forced to switch out after using it as being locked into a weak move isn't recommended for obvious reasons.
Set Details
========
The EVs are there deliberately outpace opposing Talonflame while maximising Talonflame's firepower. Choice Band only augments this further, often turning Talonflame into a nuke that can just keep spamming Brave Bird with little worry. An adamant nature is there to maximise Talonflame's power. Furthermore, a jolly nature is pretty worthless when Talonflame is mostly just going to be spamming Brave Bird anyway.
Usage Tips
========
Brave Bird (almost) everything is the advice that I would give you when using this set as it will often get you further than doing any other sole action. However, clicking that button without thinking could cost you, so know when to not click Brave Bird. Write down the opposing team and refer to it whenever you are chosing what move you want to make Talonflame use, as you will often find situations mid-game where you regret clicking Brave Bird. Switch strategically to ensure that whatever you are switching in takes as little damage as possible, such as luring a Rock Slide with Talonflame and going into Garchomp to take the hit allowing Talonflame to come in later and lock itself into the appropriate move. General decisions to make are to use U-Turn when Tyranitar is on the opponent's side of the field, use Flare Blitz when Aegislash or Scizor is a threat to your team, and use your filler if you deem it appropriate. Other than that, you can usually safely use Brave Bird.
Team Options
========
Rotom-Wash and Rotom-Heat can deal with opposing Talonflame, and Rotom-Heat in particular can deal with Mega Charizard Y very well. Rotom-Mow, on the other hand, is a great way to deal with opposing Rotom-Wash and Tyranitar. Tyranitar can deal with Rotom-Heat, Talonflame and Mega Charizard Y well, however it must be wary of Talonflame's U-Turn and Mega Charizard Y's Solar Beam when it mega evolves after Tyranitar comes in. Fake Out users such as Mega Kangaskhan can prevent Rock Slides and enable Talonflame to U-Turn out safely to bring in a pokemon with a better matchup against the opponent's combo, or give it a turn to use Tailwind or something. The combination of Scizor and Talonflame is scary, dealing with the Rock-types that wall Talonflame while Talonflame deals with Aegislash that may be causing problems for Scizor that lack Thief. However, Scizor is still walled by Rotom-Wash and Rotom-Heat, and must be wary of the former's Will-O-Wisp and the latter's Overheat. Garchomp also makes a terrifying offensive core that can deal with Rotom-Heat. However, Garchomp must, once again, be wary of Will-O-Wisp from Rotom-Wash. Amoonguss is capable of dealing with Rotom-Wash and Tyranitar, as well as being capable of supporting Talonflame with Spore and Rage Powder. It must, however, be wary of the latter's Crunch and Rock Slide as the damage will start racking up. Finally, Haxorus can "break the mold" and deal 2HKO 252 HP / 44 Def Rotom-Wash and always OHKO Rotom-Heat with a Mold Breaker Earthquake.
Other Options
########
Talonflame doesn't exactly have the god of all movepools offensively, but it does have a very good supportive movepool and a few other offensive options to consider. Talonflame has a wide range of support moves that could go on the standard set, the most notable of which are Will-O-Wisp, Taunt and Roost. However, these are generally outclassed by the options that are currently in the set. Overheat could be used on the standard set with a mild nature and an EV spread of 172 Atk / 252 SpA / 84 Spe, however, such a set would be lacking in power when using Brave Bird, and it forces Talonflame to run Life Orb over Sky Plate which many players will find unattractive due to the high levels of recoil it causes when using Brave Bird. On the subject of Overheat, Talonflame has a range of special moves that it can use well such as Hidden Power, Fire Blast and Flamethrower and Solar Beam, however I have just listed Talonflame's entire (usable) special movepool in this one sentence, so it is definitely not recommended. Acrobatics can be used over Aerial Ace on the Choice Band set just in case Talonflame is on the wrong end of a Knock Off, however Knock Off is too uncommon to recommend preparing for and Aerial Ace is, ironically, stronger when Talonflame does have an item in tact. Charti Berry or Wacan Berry can be used with an EV spread of 172 HP / 252 Atk / 84 Spe to guarantee Talonflame to take Mega Tyranitar's Rock Slide - surviving the chip-damage from Sandstorm too - or modest, max special attack Rotom-Heat's Thunderbolt. Natural Gift can be used to give Talonflame a better way to deal with Rotom-Wash and Tyranitar by utilising the Liechi Berry and Salac Berry, respectively. While the former could have utility when it isn't used up by Natural Gift, the latter has little use outside of speeding up Talonflame's Flare Blitz: something which would lead to it being KOd anyway. Furthermore, Natural Gift can only be used once without access to Recycle or Harvest: two things that Talonflame lacks, so it isn't recommended. Finally, Talonflame has access to Swords Dance and Bulk Up to boost its stats, however Talonflame isn't going to be around for long enough to utilise these well, so it isn't advised.
Checks and Counters
########
**Electric-Types**:Rotom-Wash and Rotm-Heat are Talonflame's worst enemys, as Talonflame can deal little damage to either of them due to their typing. Mega Manectric is also a good way to deal with Talonflame due to Intimidate, however it must be wary of Flare Blitz in the sun. Mega Ampharos can tank Talonflame better than Mega Manectric, but doesn't have access to the high-utility Intimidate, unlike Mega Manectric.
**Rock-Types**:Tyranitar resists both of Talonflame's STAB attacks, although it must be wary of Talonflame's U-Turn as it will 2HKO 92 HP / 124 Def Tyrnaitar 5.1% of the time and with double-targeting posing an ever-present threat to Tyranitar, it could lead to it being KOd that turn. Rhydon and Rhyperior completely wall Talonflame, however they must be wary of one of Talonflame's usual teammates: Rotom-Wash. Aerodactyl poses a stiff competition with Talonflame in the roll of Tailwind-er, and can OHKO Talonflame with STAB Rock Slide. However, like Rhyperior, Aerodactyl must be wary of Rotom-Wash.
**Water-Types**:Slowbro and Rotom-Wash can tank Talonflame's attacks and retalliate with STAB Scald and Hydro Pump, respectively. However, the former must be wary of Talonflame's U-Turn. Azumarill is capable of tanking Talonflame's Brave Bird and can OHKO back with STAB Waterfall and Aqua Jet, the latter with some prior damage. However, it must be wary of Rotom-Wash who can OHKO it with Thunderbolt. Gyarados floats in the same boat as Azumarill, except trading Aqua Jet for Intimidate, making it an even better way to deal with Talonflame.
**The Rest**:Quick Guard users such as Mienshao and opposing Talonflame play mind games with Talonflame as they are capable of wasting Talonflame's turn with Quick Guard, enabling its teammate to cripple Talonflame with the attack of its choice or straight out KO Talonflame. Intimidating pokemon (pun intended) such as Scrafty and Salamence can weaken Talonflame and force it to switch out. Pokemon that will often carry Rock Slide for coverage, such as Garchomp and the aformentioned Salamence, can often take a hit and OHKO in return with said move.
Edit: will redo factoring in Blitzlefans check (unless this gets 2/2d)
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Oops, I did this last night, but couldn't post it because the Wi-Fi shut off for the night. Sorry about that. :/ I cut down on the fluff in this analysis, separated "the rest" in Checks & Counters, and made various changes throughout. Hope this helps!
GP 1/2
Overview
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On paper, Talonflame looks like yet another mediocre Pokemon, along with the rest of its friends found in the early routes. However, Talonflame has a saving grace in the form of Gale Wings, which turns it into a premier Pokemon with its ability to destroy opposing Pokemon with powerful priority Brave Birds and benefit the team with its plethora of support options. However, the skies aren't completely clear for Talonflame, as it is weak to the common Water-, Electric- and Rock-type moves that plague the metagame, has rather mediocre stats to back up its amazing ability, and has a movepool that is nothing to write home about, therefore limiting its options. However, don't let these shortcomings put you off from using Talonflame, as it is by far one of the most potent attackers and effective supporters in the metagame.
Offensive Support
########
name: Offensive Support
move 1: Brave Bird
move 2: Flare Blitz
move 3: Tailwind / Quick Guard
move 4: Protect / Quick Guard
ability: Gale Wings
item: Life Orb / Sky Plate
evs: 84 HP / 252 Atk / 172 Spe
nature: Adamant
Moves
========
Gale Wings is incredibly useful, as it grants Talonflame priority Tailwind and the most powerful priority move in the game in the form of Brave Bird. Brave Bird is Talonflame's main attack due to the priority it gains from Gale Wings, ripping through Pokemon such as Amoonguss. Talonflame's secondary STAB move, Flare Blitz complements Brave Bird fairly well; the two moves form a potent combination resisted by the Rock typing and a few other dual typings. Tailwind is a priority move that boosts the Speed of the entire team for a few turns. Protect is a staple in Doubles for its ability to scout the opponent's moves and protect the user from damage, especially important considering the ability to double-target. Quick Guard can be used in the place of Tailwind or Protect as the utility it provides is incredibly handy on Talonflame. Quick Guard blocks Fake Out from the likes of Mega Kangaskhan, can give your teammate a free turn to move, and has been buffed in that it no longer fails when used in succession.
Set Details
========
The given EVs enable Talonflame to hit with as much power as possible, as well as outpace max Speed Mega Kangaskhan. As a result, Talonflame can block Mega Kangaskhan's Fake Out with Quick Guard and utilize Brave Bird to nullify Sucker Punch. Talonflame can run max Speed to outpace every Fake Out user in the metagame excluding max Speed Raichu, which Speed ties with it, and max Speed Weavile, which outpaces it anyway. This also enables Talonflame to outpace most opposing Talonflame, which can be a valuable asset. However, maximum Speed investment is unadvised as Raichu and Weavile are too uncommon, and Talonflame can mess with opposing Talonflame with Quick Guard. The item of choice depends on what you want Talonflame to do: it can hold a Sky Plate for a little more survivability at the cost of power, or a Life Orb for the extra power, enabling a guaranteed 2HKO on 244 HP Bold Coba Berry Ludicolo with Brave Bird, at the cost of survivability. An Adamant nature is run as there is no reason to run a Jolly nature, as Talonflame will use Brave Bird, Tailwind, Quick Guard and Protect most of the time.
Usage Tips
========
Bring Talonflame in early-game to support the team with Tailwind and Quick Guard. Make your move accordingly based around the lead match-up, using Quick Guard turn one when against a lead Kangaskhan, setting up Tailwind when you feel it is needed, such as when facing a particularly fast team, and using Brave Bird or Flare Blitz to deal with opposing threats such as Ludicolo and Scizor. As you can imagine, mirror match-ups consist of many mind games, so make sure to play conservatively in these situations, predicting your opponent's move and using your 45 seconds well. Misprediction might get Talonflame KOed, for example, by Garchomp's Rock Slide when it uses Brave Bird and the opponent uses Quick Guard.
Team Options
========
Steel-types such as Scizor and Aegislash have good synergy with Talonflame and can deal with the Rock-types that resist Talonflame's attacks. Rotom-W and Rotom-H can deal with opposing Talonflame as well as deal Mega Charizard Y, and the latter can take advantage of the sun that Mega Charizard Y summons. Rock-types such as Tyranitar and Aerodactyl can also deal with opposing Talonflame, and the former can also deal with Rotom-H. Amoonguss walls Rotom-W and threatens it with a STAB Giga Drain. Mega Charizard Y can summon sun, boosting the power of Talonflame's Flare Blitz and compensating its slight lack of power when it holds a Sky Plate. Talonflame and Garchomp create a terrifying offensive core with excellent offensive synergy; for example, Talonflame covers Fairy-types and Ferrothorn, while Garchomp covers Talonflame and Rotom-H.
Choice Band
########
name: Choice Band
move 1: Brave Bird
move 2: Flare Blitz
move 3: U-Turn
move 4: Tailwind / Me First / Aerial Ace
ability: Gale Wings
item: Choice Band
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
nature: Adamant
Moves
========
Brave Bird is the move that Talonflame will generally be using, due to its STAB boost and Gale Wings. Flare Blitz is mainly a backup move for when locking Talonflame into Brave Bird isn't optimal, and deals with Pokemon such as Scizor and Aegislash better than Brave Bird does. U-turn is useful on this set as it allows Talonflame to escape from a bad situation, and is Talonflame's best move for Tyranitar. The last moveslot is mainly filler, but there are a few options to consider. Tailwind serves the same purpose as on the standard set, and can help bluff an non-Choice set. However, Talonflame is basically forced to switch out on the following turn after using Tailwind, so it will soon be clear that Talonflame is Choice-locked. Before setting up Tailwind, Me First helps Talonflame against Pokemon such as Aerodactyl, stealing Rock Slide and OHKOing them. However, the move is a little situational. Aerial Ace can also be used in the fourth moveslot as a recoil-free way of dealing with weakened opponents, but is very weak and forces Talonflame to switch out after using it.
Set Details
========
The EVs are to outpace opposing Talonflame and maximize its firepower. An Adamant nature and Choice Band augment Talonflame's offensive capabilities, turning it into a nuke that can spam Brave Bird with little worry. A Jolly nature is worthless, as Talonflame is mostly going to spam Brave Bird.
Usage Tips
========
Brave Bird is most often the best move to use, though it should not be used recklessly. Write down the opposing team and refer to it whenever you are making decisions, as you will often find situations mid-game where Brave Bird is not the best move to use. Switch strategically to ensure that the Pokemon you are switching in takes as little damage as possible. An example includes luring a Rock Slide with Talonflame and switching into Garchomp to take the hit, allowing Talonflame to come in later and lock itself into the appropriate move. General decisions include using U-turn when Tyranitar is on the opponent's side of the field, using Flare Blitz when Aegislash or Scizor is a threat to your team, and using your filler move when you deem it to be appropriate.
Team Options
========
Rotom-W and Rotom-H can deal with opposing Talonflame, and the latter can deal with Mega Charizard Y very well. Rotom-M, on the other hand, is a great Pokemon to deal with opposing Rotom-W and Tyranitar. Tyranitar can deal with Rotom-H, Talonflame, and Mega Charizard Y well, though it must be wary of Talonflame's U-turn and Mega Charizard Y's Solar Beam. Fake Out users such as Mega Kangaskhan can prevent Rock Slides and enable Talonflame to U-turn out safely and bring in a Pokemon with a better match-up against the opponent's Pokemon. Fake Out users can also give Talonflame a turn to set up with Tailwind or utilize another move. The combination of Scizor and Talonflame is effective, as Scizor can deal with the Rock-types that wall Talonflame and Talonflame can deal with Aegislash, which can cause problems for Scizor that lack Thief. However, Scizor is walled by Rotom-W and Rotom-H, and must be wary of the former's Will-O-Wisp and the latter's Overheat. Garchomp also makes an excellent partner, as it can defeat Rotom-H, though it must be wary of Will-O-Wisp. Amoonguss is capable of dealing with Rotom-W and Tyranitar as well as supporting Talonflame with Spore and Rage Powder. However, it must be wary of the Crunch and Rock Slide from Tyranitar. Lastly, Mold Breaker Haxorus can 2HKO 252 HP / 44 Def Rotom-W and always OHKO Rotom-H with Earthquake.
Other Options
########
Though it doesn't have the best offensive movepool, Talonflame has a very good supportive movepool and a few other offensive options to consider. Talonflame has a wide range of support moves that can go on the standard set, the most notable of which are Will-O-Wisp, Taunt, and Roost. However, these are generally outclassed by the options that are currently in the set. Overheat can be used on the standard set with a Mild nature and an EV spread of 172 Atk / 252 SpA / 84 Spe; however, such a set packs a weaker Brave Bird and forces Talonflame to run Life Orb, which may be unattractive due to the recoil it induces. On the subject of Overheat, Talonflame has a range of special moves that it can use, such as Hidden Power, Fire Blast, Flamethrower, and Solar Beam. Acrobatics can be used over Aerial Ace on the Choice Band set in case Talonflame is on the receiving end of a Knock Off. However, Knock Off is too uncommon to recommend preparing for, and Aerial Ace is ironically stronger when Talonflame holds an item.
Charti Berry or Wacan Berry can be used with an EV spread of 172 HP / 252 Atk / 84 Spe to guarantee that Talonflame can survive Mega Tyranitar's Rock Slide after Sandstorm damage as well as Modest Rotom-H's Thunderbolt. Natural Gift can be used to give Talonflame a better way to deal with Rotom-W and Tyranitar in tandem with Liechi Berry and Salac Berry, respectively. While the former item could have utility if not used up by Natural Gift, the latter is mostly unnecessary, as the Speed boost is irrelevant to most moves bar Flare Blitz. Furthermore, Natural Gift can only be used once without access to Recycle or Harvest: two things that Talonflame lacks, so it isn't recommended. Lastly, Talonflame has access to Swords Dance and Bulk Up to boost its stats; however, Talonflame isn't going to be around for long enough to utilize these moves well.
Checks & Counters
########
**Electric-types**: Rotom-W and Rotom-H are Talonflame's worst enemies, as it cannot do much damage to either of them with its STAB moves. Mega Manectric can deal with Talonflame well due to Intimidate, though it must be wary of a sun-boosted Flare Blitz. Mega Ampharos can tank Talonflame's moves better than Mega Manectric can, but doesn't have access to Intimidate.
**Rock-types**: Tyranitar resists both of Talonflame's STAB attacks, although it must be wary of Talonflame's U-turn, as it will 2HKO 92 HP / 124 Def Tyranitar 5.1% of the time. Furthermore, Tyranitar is vulnerable to double-targeting, and could be KOed that turn. Rhydon and Rhyperior completely wall Talonflame, but they must be wary of one of Talonflame's usual teammates: Rotom-W. Aerodactyl gives Talonflame competition as a Tailwind user and can OHKO it with its STAB Rock Slide. However, like Rhyperior, Aerodactyl must be wary of Rotom-W.
**Water-types**: Slowbro and Rotom-W can tank both of Talonflame's STAB attacks and retaliate with STAB Scald and Hydro Pump, respectively. However, the former must be wary of Talonflame's U-turn. Azumarill is capable of tanking Talonflame's Brave Bird and OHKOing back with STAB Waterfall or Aqua Jet, though the latter requires some prior damage. However, it must be wary of Rotom-W, which can OHKO with Thunderbolt. Gyarados is similar to Azumarill, though trades Aqua Jet for Intimidate, making it an even better way to deal with Talonflame.
**Quick Guard**: Quick Guard users such as Mienshao and opposing Talonflame play mind games with Talonflame, as they are capable of wasting its turn with Quick Guard and allowing a teammate to cripple or KO it.
**Intimidate**: Pokemon with Intimidate, such as Scrafty and Salamence can weaken Talonflame and force it to switch out.
**Rock-type Moves**: Pokemon such as Garchomp and Salamence often carry Rock Slide for coverage. They can often take a hit and OHKO Talonflame in return.
########
On paper, Talonflame looks like yet another mediocre Pokemon, along with the rest of its friends found in the early routes. However, Talonflame has a saving grace in the form of Gale Wings, which turns it into a premier Pokemon with its ability to destroy opposing Pokemon with powerful priority Brave Birds and benefit the team with its plethora of support options. However, the skies aren't completely clear for Talonflame, as it is weak to the common Water-, Electric- and Rock-type moves that plague the metagame, has rather mediocre stats to back up its amazing ability, and has a movepool that is nothing to write home about, therefore limiting its options. However, don't let these shortcomings put you off from using Talonflame, as it is by far one of the most potent attackers and effective supporters in the metagame.
Offensive Support
########
name: Offensive Support
move 1: Brave Bird
move 2: Flare Blitz
move 3: Tailwind / Quick Guard
move 4: Protect / Quick Guard
ability: Gale Wings
item: Life Orb / Sky Plate
evs: 84 HP / 252 Atk / 172 Spe
nature: Adamant
Moves
========
Gale Wings is incredibly useful, as it grants Talonflame priority Tailwind and the most powerful priority move in the game in the form of Brave Bird. Brave Bird is Talonflame's main attack due to the priority it gains from Gale Wings, ripping through Pokemon such as Amoonguss. Talonflame's secondary STAB move, Flare Blitz complements Brave Bird fairly well; the two moves form a potent combination resisted by the Rock typing and a few other dual typings. Tailwind is a priority move that boosts the Speed of the entire team for a few turns. Protect is a staple in Doubles for its ability to scout the opponent's moves and protect the user from damage, especially important considering the ability to double-target. Quick Guard can be used in the place of Tailwind or Protect as the utility it provides is incredibly handy on Talonflame. Quick Guard blocks Fake Out from the likes of Mega Kangaskhan, can give your teammate a free turn to move, and has been buffed in that it no longer fails when used in succession.
Set Details
========
The given EVs enable Talonflame to hit with as much power as possible, as well as outpace max Speed Mega Kangaskhan. As a result, Talonflame can block Mega Kangaskhan's Fake Out with Quick Guard and utilize Brave Bird to nullify Sucker Punch. Talonflame can run max Speed to outpace every Fake Out user in the metagame excluding max Speed Raichu, which Speed ties with it, and max Speed Weavile, which outpaces it anyway. This also enables Talonflame to outpace most opposing Talonflame, which can be a valuable asset. However, maximum Speed investment is unadvised as Raichu and Weavile are too uncommon, and Talonflame can mess with opposing Talonflame with Quick Guard. The item of choice depends on what you want Talonflame to do: it can hold a Sky Plate for a little more survivability at the cost of power, or a Life Orb for the extra power, enabling a guaranteed 2HKO on 244 HP Bold Coba Berry Ludicolo with Brave Bird, at the cost of survivability. An Adamant nature is run as there is no reason to run a Jolly nature, as Talonflame will use Brave Bird, Tailwind, Quick Guard and Protect most of the time.
Usage Tips
========
Bring Talonflame in early-game to support the team with Tailwind and Quick Guard. Make your move accordingly based around the lead match-up, using Quick Guard turn one when against a lead Kangaskhan, setting up Tailwind when you feel it is needed, such as when facing a particularly fast team, and using Brave Bird or Flare Blitz to deal with opposing threats such as Ludicolo and Scizor. As you can imagine, mirror match-ups consist of many mind games, so make sure to play conservatively in these situations, predicting your opponent's move and using your 45 seconds well. Misprediction might get Talonflame KOed, for example, by Garchomp's Rock Slide when it uses Brave Bird and the opponent uses Quick Guard.
Team Options
========
Steel-types such as Scizor and Aegislash have good synergy with Talonflame and can deal with the Rock-types that resist Talonflame's attacks. Rotom-W and Rotom-H can deal with opposing Talonflame as well as deal Mega Charizard Y, and the latter can take advantage of the sun that Mega Charizard Y summons. Rock-types such as Tyranitar and Aerodactyl can also deal with opposing Talonflame, and the former can also deal with Rotom-H. Amoonguss walls Rotom-W and threatens it with a STAB Giga Drain. Mega Charizard Y can summon sun, boosting the power of Talonflame's Flare Blitz and compensating its slight lack of power when it holds a Sky Plate. Talonflame and Garchomp create a terrifying offensive core with excellent offensive synergy; for example, Talonflame covers Fairy-types and Ferrothorn, while Garchomp covers Talonflame and Rotom-H.
Choice Band
########
name: Choice Band
move 1: Brave Bird
move 2: Flare Blitz
move 3: U-Turn
move 4: Tailwind / Me First / Aerial Ace
ability: Gale Wings
item: Choice Band
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
nature: Adamant
Moves
========
Brave Bird is the move that Talonflame will generally be using, due to its STAB boost and Gale Wings. Flare Blitz is mainly a backup move for when locking Talonflame into Brave Bird isn't optimal, and deals with Pokemon such as Scizor and Aegislash better than Brave Bird does. U-turn is useful on this set as it allows Talonflame to escape from a bad situation, and is Talonflame's best move for Tyranitar. The last moveslot is mainly filler, but there are a few options to consider. Tailwind serves the same purpose as on the standard set, and can help bluff an non-Choice set. However, Talonflame is basically forced to switch out on the following turn after using Tailwind, so it will soon be clear that Talonflame is Choice-locked. Before setting up Tailwind, Me First helps Talonflame against Pokemon such as Aerodactyl, stealing Rock Slide and OHKOing them. However, the move is a little situational. Aerial Ace can also be used in the fourth moveslot as a recoil-free way of dealing with weakened opponents, but is very weak and forces Talonflame to switch out after using it.
Set Details
========
The EVs are to outpace opposing Talonflame and maximize its firepower. An Adamant nature and Choice Band augment Talonflame's offensive capabilities, turning it into a nuke that can spam Brave Bird with little worry. A Jolly nature is worthless, as Talonflame is mostly going to spam Brave Bird.
Usage Tips
========
Brave Bird is most often the best move to use, though it should not be used recklessly. Write down the opposing team and refer to it whenever you are making decisions, as you will often find situations mid-game where Brave Bird is not the best move to use. Switch strategically to ensure that the Pokemon you are switching in takes as little damage as possible. An example includes luring a Rock Slide with Talonflame and switching into Garchomp to take the hit, allowing Talonflame to come in later and lock itself into the appropriate move. General decisions include using U-turn when Tyranitar is on the opponent's side of the field, using Flare Blitz when Aegislash or Scizor is a threat to your team, and using your filler move when you deem it to be appropriate.
Team Options
========
Rotom-W and Rotom-H can deal with opposing Talonflame, and the latter can deal with Mega Charizard Y very well. Rotom-M, on the other hand, is a great Pokemon to deal with opposing Rotom-W and Tyranitar. Tyranitar can deal with Rotom-H, Talonflame, and Mega Charizard Y well, though it must be wary of Talonflame's U-turn and Mega Charizard Y's Solar Beam. Fake Out users such as Mega Kangaskhan can prevent Rock Slides and enable Talonflame to U-turn out safely and bring in a Pokemon with a better match-up against the opponent's Pokemon. Fake Out users can also give Talonflame a turn to set up with Tailwind or utilize another move. The combination of Scizor and Talonflame is effective, as Scizor can deal with the Rock-types that wall Talonflame and Talonflame can deal with Aegislash, which can cause problems for Scizor that lack Thief. However, Scizor is walled by Rotom-W and Rotom-H, and must be wary of the former's Will-O-Wisp and the latter's Overheat. Garchomp also makes an excellent partner, as it can defeat Rotom-H, though it must be wary of Will-O-Wisp. Amoonguss is capable of dealing with Rotom-W and Tyranitar as well as supporting Talonflame with Spore and Rage Powder. However, it must be wary of the Crunch and Rock Slide from Tyranitar. Lastly, Mold Breaker Haxorus can 2HKO 252 HP / 44 Def Rotom-W and always OHKO Rotom-H with Earthquake.
Other Options
########
Though it doesn't have the best offensive movepool, Talonflame has a very good supportive movepool and a few other offensive options to consider. Talonflame has a wide range of support moves that can go on the standard set, the most notable of which are Will-O-Wisp, Taunt, and Roost. However, these are generally outclassed by the options that are currently in the set. Overheat can be used on the standard set with a Mild nature and an EV spread of 172 Atk / 252 SpA / 84 Spe; however, such a set packs a weaker Brave Bird and forces Talonflame to run Life Orb, which may be unattractive due to the recoil it induces. On the subject of Overheat, Talonflame has a range of special moves that it can use, such as Hidden Power, Fire Blast, Flamethrower, and Solar Beam. Acrobatics can be used over Aerial Ace on the Choice Band set in case Talonflame is on the receiving end of a Knock Off. However, Knock Off is too uncommon to recommend preparing for, and Aerial Ace is ironically stronger when Talonflame holds an item.
Charti Berry or Wacan Berry can be used with an EV spread of 172 HP / 252 Atk / 84 Spe to guarantee that Talonflame can survive Mega Tyranitar's Rock Slide after Sandstorm damage as well as Modest Rotom-H's Thunderbolt. Natural Gift can be used to give Talonflame a better way to deal with Rotom-W and Tyranitar in tandem with Liechi Berry and Salac Berry, respectively. While the former item could have utility if not used up by Natural Gift, the latter is mostly unnecessary, as the Speed boost is irrelevant to most moves bar Flare Blitz. Furthermore, Natural Gift can only be used once without access to Recycle or Harvest: two things that Talonflame lacks, so it isn't recommended. Lastly, Talonflame has access to Swords Dance and Bulk Up to boost its stats; however, Talonflame isn't going to be around for long enough to utilize these moves well.
Checks & Counters
########
**Electric-types**: Rotom-W and Rotom-H are Talonflame's worst enemies, as it cannot do much damage to either of them with its STAB moves. Mega Manectric can deal with Talonflame well due to Intimidate, though it must be wary of a sun-boosted Flare Blitz. Mega Ampharos can tank Talonflame's moves better than Mega Manectric can, but doesn't have access to Intimidate.
**Rock-types**: Tyranitar resists both of Talonflame's STAB attacks, although it must be wary of Talonflame's U-turn, as it will 2HKO 92 HP / 124 Def Tyranitar 5.1% of the time. Furthermore, Tyranitar is vulnerable to double-targeting, and could be KOed that turn. Rhydon and Rhyperior completely wall Talonflame, but they must be wary of one of Talonflame's usual teammates: Rotom-W. Aerodactyl gives Talonflame competition as a Tailwind user and can OHKO it with its STAB Rock Slide. However, like Rhyperior, Aerodactyl must be wary of Rotom-W.
**Water-types**: Slowbro and Rotom-W can tank both of Talonflame's STAB attacks and retaliate with STAB Scald and Hydro Pump, respectively. However, the former must be wary of Talonflame's U-turn. Azumarill is capable of tanking Talonflame's Brave Bird and OHKOing back with STAB Waterfall or Aqua Jet, though the latter requires some prior damage. However, it must be wary of Rotom-W, which can OHKO with Thunderbolt. Gyarados is similar to Azumarill, though trades Aqua Jet for Intimidate, making it an even better way to deal with Talonflame.
**Quick Guard**: Quick Guard users such as Mienshao and opposing Talonflame play mind games with Talonflame, as they are capable of wasting its turn with Quick Guard and allowing a teammate to cripple or KO it.
**Intimidate**: Pokemon with Intimidate, such as Scrafty and Salamence can weaken Talonflame and force it to switch out.
**Rock-type Moves**: Pokemon such as Garchomp and Salamence often carry Rock Slide for coverage. They can often take a hit and OHKO Talonflame in return.
OVERVIEWverview
########
On paper, Talonflame looks like yet another mediocrepPokemon, along with the rest of its friends with the Flying-type pokemon found in the early routes. However, along with Staraptor's sky-high attack stat and access to two amazing abilities in Intimidate and Reckless and Diggersby's ability Huge Power, Talonflame has a saving grace (aside from it's awesome design) in the form of Gale Wings. This, which turns Talonflameit into one of thea premier pPokemon forwith its ability to either destroy the opposing sidePokemon with powerful priority Brave Birds or supporand benefit the team with its plethora of support options. However, the skies aren't completely clear for our Talonflaming raptore, as it is weak to the common Water-, Electric- and Rock-type moves that plague thise metagame - the latter being quadruple - it, has rather mediocre stats to back up its absolutely amazing ability, which limit Talonflame to an extent,and has and its movepool that is nothing to write home about:, therefore limiting its options. However, don't let these shortcomings put you off from using Talonflame, as it is by far one of the most potent attackers and effective supporters in the metagame.
Offensive Support
########
name: Offensive Supportandard
move 1: Brave Bird
move 2: Flare Blitz
move 3: Tailwind / Quick Guard
move 4: Protect / Quick Guard
ability: Gale Wings
item: Life Orb / Sky Plate
evs: 84 HP / 252 Atk / 172 Spe
nature: Adamant
Moves
========
Before I start, let me just say how useful itGale Wings is having prioroty on every move in the gamecredibly useful, as it legrants Talonflame have a psuedo-prankster onpriority Tailwind and the most powerful prioroity move in the game when usingin the form of Brave Bird. On the subject of Brave Bird, it is theTalonflame's main attack due to that Talonflame will be using due toe priority it gains from Gale Wings:, ripping through pPokemon such as Amoonguss. This is then backed up by Talonflame's secondary STAB move, Flare Blitz: a combination whichplements Brave Bird fairly well; the only sole type thtwo moves form a potent combination resists it beinged by the Rock- type,ing and dual-types without rock resisting being Electric-/Water- and Electric-/Fire-a few other dual typings. Tailwind is powerful on Talonflame, serving the same purposa priority move thas it did on Thundurus, Tornadus and Whimsicott inboosts the past: a sSpeed-boost for of the wholentire team that is backed by priorotyfor a few turns. Protect is a staple in dDoubles for its ability to scout what the opponent is doing's moves and protect yourselfthe user from damage as everything is pressured in surviv, especially important considering with the ability to double-target. Quick Guard can be used in the place of Tailwind or Protect as the utility it provides is incredibly handy on Talonflame -. Quick Guard blockings Fake Out from the likes of Mega Kangaskhan, can give your teammate time to do something rather thaa free turn be stopped cold for the turn move, and it has been buffed in that it can no longer fails when used in succession.
Set Details
========
TheEVs given in the setEVs enable Talonflame to hit with as much power as possible, as well as outpacinge max sSpeed, jolly Mega Kangaskhan. As a result, Talonflame can block all of itMega Kangaskhan's Fake Outs with Quick Guard and preventing it from usingutilize Brave Bird to nullify Sucker Punch. Talon you when you use Bravflame Bird. You can run max sSpeed to outpace every Fake Out user in the metagame excluding max-speed Spositive-natured Raichu, who you sich Speed ties with it, and max-s Speed jolly Weavile, whoich outpaces you outright anyway. This will also enable yous Talonflame to outpace most opposing Talonflame, which couldan be a valuable asset. However, the two pokemonmaximum Speed investment is unadvised as Raichu and Weavile are too uncommon to bother investing EVs for and you, and Talonflame can mess with opposing Talonflame by usingwith Quick Guard anyway, so it is not recommended. The item of choice depends on what you want to do: have Talonflame to do: it can haold a Sky Plate if you want it to havefor a little more survivability at the cost of a lot of power, on your Flare Blitz as well as a little power on your Brave Bird, or use Life Orb if you just want it to hit as hard asfor the extra possiblewer, enabling youa guarantee ad 2HKO on 244 HP, Bold Coba Berry Ludicolo with Brave Bird, at the cost of survivability. An aAdamant nature is run as there is no actual reason to run a jJolly nature, as Talonflame will be usinge Brave Bird, Tailwind, Quick Guard orand Protect most of the time anyway.
Usage Tips
========
Bring Talonflame in early-game to support the team with Tailwind and Quick Guard. Make your move accordingly based around the lead- match-up, using Quick Guard turn one when against a lead Kangaskhan, setting up Tailwind when you feel it is needed -, such as when facing a particularly fast team -, and useing Brave Bird ofr Flare Blitz to deal with opposing threats such as ScizorLudicolo and LudicoloScizor. As you can imagine, Talonflame-on-Talonflamemirror match-ups consist of many mind games - a bit like Aegislash's King's Shield -, so make sure to play conservatively in thoese situations, predicting what theyour opponent is going to do's move and using your 45 seconds well, or you. Misprediction might just get Talonflame KOed, for example, by Garchomp's Rock Slide when youit uses Brave Bird intoand the opponent' uses Quick Guard and get hit by Garchomp's Rock Slide.
Team Options
========
Steel-types such as Scizor and Aegislashare a great way tohave good synergy with Talonflame and can deal with the Rock-types that resist Talonflame's attacks, as well as having good synergy with Talonflame. Rotom-Wash and Rotom-Heat are good ways of can dealing with opposing Talonflame, as well as dealing with opposing Mega Charizard Y better, and than Talonflamee latter can, with Rotom-Heat even being able to take advantage of the sun that Mega Charizard Y summons. Rock-types such as Tyranitar and Aerodactyl can also deal with opposing Talonflame, and the former can also deal with Rotom-Heat well. Amoonguss walls the living hell out of Rotom-Wash, as well asnd threatenings it back with a STAB Giga Drain. Mega Charizard Y can summon the sun, boosting the power of Talonflame's Flare Blitz, alsond conmpensating for theits slight lack of power when it holding thes a Sky Plate. A combo of Talonflame and Garchomp iscreate a terrifying offensive core, covering each other's weaknesses with excellent offensively with synergy; for example, Talonflame covering thes Fairy-types and Ferrothorn, while Garchomp covers Talonflame and Rotom-Heat, just as examples.
Choice Band
########
name: Choice Band
move 1: Brave Bird
move 2: Flare Blitz
move 3: U-Turn
move 4: Tailwind / Me First / Aerial Ace
ability: Gale Wings
item: Choice Band
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
nature: Adamant
Moves
========
Brave Bird isa powerfulthe move that Talonflame will generally be using, due to its STAB boost and Gale Wings. Flare Blitz is there mainly as a backup plan when it maybe isn't the best idea tomove for when lock yourselfing Talonflame into Brave Bird isn't optimal, and dealings with pPokemon such as Scizor and Aegislash better than Brave Bird does. U-Tturn is useful on this set as it letallows Talonflame switch out ofto escape from a bad situation, as well and is being Talonflame's best way to hitmove for Tyranitar. The last moveslot is mainly a filler, but there are a few options to consider. Tailwind serves the same purpose as on the standard set, while alsoand can help bluffing an un-cnon-Choiced set. However, Talonflame is completebasically forced to switch out on the following turn after using Tailwind, so it will soon be clear that you are cTalonflame is Choiced if you a-locked. Before repeatedly ussetting up Tailwind dispite it being useless while in effect., Me First, on the other hand, supportlps Talonflame against pPokemon such as Aerodactyl before it has set up Tailwind, stealing its Rock Slide and OHKOing ithem. However, itthe move is a little situational, so keep that in mind when using it. Aerial Ace can also be used in the fourth moveslot as a recoil-free way of dealing with weakened opponents. Howe, but is ver, Talonflame iy weak and forces Talmost forcedonflame to switch out after using it as being locked into a weak move isn't recommended for obvious reasons.
Set Details
========
The EVs are there deliberatelyo outpace opposing Talonflame whileand maximising Talonflame'ze its firepower. An Adamant nature and Choice Band only augments this further, Talonflame's oftfensive capabilities, turning Talonflameit into a nuke that can just keep spamming Brave Bird with little worry. An adamant nature is there to maximise Talonflame's power. Furthermore, a j Jolly nature is pretty worthless when, as Talonflame is mostly just going to be spamming Brave Bird anyway.
Usage Tips
========
Brave Bird (almost) everything is the advice that I would give you when using this set as it willmost often get you further than doing any other sole action. Howe best mover, clicking that button wio use, thout thinking cgh it should cost you, so know when to not click Brave Birdnot be used recklessly. Write down the opposing team and refer to it whenever you are chosing what move you want to make Talaking decisionflame use, as you will often find situations mid-game where you regret clicking Brave Bird is not the best move to use. Switch strategically to ensure that whateverthe Pokemon you are switching in takes as little damage as possible, such a. An example includes luring a Rock Slide with Talonflame and goswitching into Garchomp to take the hit, allowing Talonflame to come in later and lock itself into the appropriate move. General decisions to make are toinclude useing U-Tturn when Tyranitar is on the opponent's side of the field, useing Flare Blitz when Aegislash or Scizor is a threat to your team, and useing your filler ifmove when you deem it to be appropriate. Other than that, you can usually safely use Brave Bird.
Team Options
========
Rotom-Wash and Rotom-Heat can deal with opposing Talonflame, and Rotom-Heat in particuthe latter can deal with Mega Charizard Y very well. Rotom-Mow, on the other hand, is a great wayPokemon to deal with opposing Rotom-Wash and Tyranitar. Tyranitar can deal with Rotom-Heat, Talonflame, and Mega Charizard Y well, thoweverugh it must be wary of Talonflame's U-Tturn and Mega Charizard Y's Solar Beam when it mega evolves after Tyranitar comes in. Fake Out users such as Mega Kangaskhan can prevent Rock Slides and enable Talonflame to U-Tturn out safely toand bring in a pPokemon with a better match-up against the opponent's combo, orPokemon. Fake Out users can also give itTalonflame a turn to uset up with Tailwind or somethingutilize another move. The combination of Scizor and Talonflame is effective, as Scizor cary,n dealing with the Rock-types that wall Talonflame whileand Talonflame can deals with Aegislash that may be, which can causinge problems for Scizor that lack Thief. However, Scizor is still walled by Rotom-Wash and Rotom-Heat, and must be wary of the former's Will-O-Wisp and the latter's Overheat. Garchomp also makes a terrifying offensive core than excellent partner, as it can defeal with Rotom-Heat. However, Garchompthough it must, once again, be wary of Will-O-Wisp from Rotom-Wash. Amoonguss is capable of dealing with Rotom-Wash and Tyranitar, as well as being capable of supporting Talonflame with Spore and Rage Powder. It must, hHowever, it must be wary of the latter's Crunch and Rock Slide as the damage will sfrom Tyranitart racking up. FinalLastly, Haxorus can "bMold Break the mold" er Haxorus cand deal 2HKO 252 HP / 44 Def Rotom-Wash and always OHKO Rotom-Heat with a Mold Breaker Earthquake.
Other Options
########
Talonflamehough it doesn't exactly have the god of all movepoolsbest offensive movepooly, but it doesTalonflame haves a very good supportive movepool and a few other offensive options to consider. Talonflame has a wide range of support moves that couldan go on the standard set, the most notable of which are Will-O-Wisp, Taunt, and Roost. However, these are generally outclassed by the options that are currently in the set. Overheat couldan be used on the standard set with a mMild nature and an EV spread of 172 Atk / 252 SpA / 84 Spe,; however, such a set would be lpacking in pows a weaker when using Brave Bird, and it forces Talonflame to run Life Orb over Sky Plate, which many players will findbe unattractive due to the high levels of recoil it causes when using Brave Birduces. On the subject of Overheat, Talonflame has a range of special moves that it can use well, such as Hidden Power, Fire Blast and, Flamethrower, and Solar Beam, however I have just listed Talonflame's entire (usable) special movepool in this one sentence, so it is definitely not recommended. Acrobatics can be used over Aerial Ace on the Choice Band set just in case Talonflame is on the wroreceiving end of a Knock Off, h. However, Knock Off is too uncommon to recommend preparing for, and Aerial Ace is, ironically, stronger when Talonflame does haveholds an item in tact. Charti Berry or Wacan Berry can be used with an EV spread of 172 HP / 252 Atk / 84 Spe to guarantee that Talonflame to takcan survive Mega Tyranitar's Rock Slide - surviving the chip-damage fterom Sandstorm too - or modest, max speciadamage as well attacks Modest Rotom-Heat's Thunderbolt. Natural Gift can be used to give Talonflame a better way to deal with Rotom-Wash and Tyranitar by utilising in tandem withe Liechi Berry and Salac Berry, respectively. While the former item could have utility when it isn'f not used up by Natural Gift, the latter has little use outside of sis mostly unnecessary, as the Speeding up Talonflame's Flare Blitz: something which would lead boost is irrelevant to it being KOd anywaymost moves bar Flare Blitz. Furthermore, Natural Gift can only be used once without access to Recycle or Harvest: two things that Talonflame lacks, so it isn't recommended. FinalLastly, Talonflame has access to Swords Dance and Bulk Up to boost its stats,; however, Talonflame isn't going to be around for long enough to utilisze these well, so it isn't advised.moves well.
Checksand& Counters
########
**Electric-Ttypes**: Rotom-Wash and Rotom-Heat are Talonflame's worst enemyies, as Talonflameit cannot deal littleo much damage to either of them due to their typingwith its STAB moves. Mega Manectric is also a good way tocan deal with Talonflame well due to Intimidate, thoweverugh it must be wary of a sun-boosted Flare Blitz in the sun. Mega Ampharos can tank Talonflame's moves better than Mega Manectric can, but doesn't have access to the high-utility Intimidate, unlike Mega Manectric.
**Rock-Ttypes**: Tyranitar resists both of Talonflame's STAB attacks, although it must be wary of Talonflame's U-Tturn, as it will 2HKO 92 HP / 124 Def Tyrnanitar 5.1% of the time. Furthermore, Tyrand withitar is vulnerable to double-targeting posing an ever-present threat to Tyranitar, it, and could lead to it being KOed that turn. Rhydon and Rhyperior completely wall Talonflame, howeverbut they must be wary of one of Talonflame's usual teammates: Rotom-Wash. Aerodactyl posgives a stiffTalonflame competition with Talonflame in the roll ofas a Tailwind- user, and can OHKO Talonflameit with its STAB Rock Slide. However, like Rhyperior, Aerodactyl must be wary of Rotom-Wash.
**Water-Ttypes**: Slowbro and Rotom-Wash can tank both of Talonflame's STAB attacks and retalliate with STAB Scald and Hydro Pump, respectively. However, the former must be wary of Talonflame's U-Tturn. Azumarill is capable of tanking Talonflame's Brave Bird and can OHKOing back with STAB Waterfall andor Aqua Jet, though the latter withrequires some prior damage. However, it must be wary of Rotom-Wash, whoich can OHKO it with Thunderbolt. Gyarados floats in the same boat ass similar to Azumarill, excepthough tradinges Aqua Jet for Intimidate, making it an even better way to deal with Talonflame.
**The RestQuick Guard**: Quick Guard users such as Mienshao and opposing Talonflame play mind games with Talonflame, as they are capable of wasting Talonflame'its turn with Quick Guard, enabl and allowing itsa teammate to cripple Talonflame with the attack of its choice or straight out KO Talonflame. it.
**Intimidating pe**: Pokemon (pun intended)with Intimidate, such as Scrafty and Salamence can weaken Talonflame and force it to switch out.
**Rock-type Moves**: Pokemonthat willsuch as Garchomp and Salamence often carry Rock Slide for coverage, such as Garchomp and the aformentioned Salamence,. They can often take a hit and OHKO Talonflame in return with said move.
########
On paper, Talonflame looks like yet another mediocre
Offensive Support
########
name: Offensive Support
move 1: Brave Bird
move 2: Flare Blitz
move 3: Tailwind / Quick Guard
move 4: Protect / Quick Guard
ability: Gale Wings
item: Life Orb / Sky Plate
evs: 84 HP / 252 Atk / 172 Spe
nature: Adamant
Moves
========
Set Details
========
The
Usage Tips
========
Bring Talonflame in early-game to support the team with Tailwind and Quick Guard. Make your move accordingly based around the lead
Team Options
========
Steel-types such as Scizor and Aegislash
Choice Band
########
name: Choice Band
move 1: Brave Bird
move 2: Flare Blitz
move 3: U-Turn
move 4: Tailwind / Me First / Aerial Ace
ability: Gale Wings
item: Choice Band
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
nature: Adamant
Moves
========
Brave Bird is
Set Details
========
The EVs are t
Usage Tips
========
Brave Bird
Team Options
========
Rotom-W
Other Options
########
T
Checks
########
**Electric-
**Rock-
**Water-
**
**Intimidat
**Rock-type Moves**: Pokemon
Last edited:
OK. Changes made.
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REMOVE CHANGE COMMENTS
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Overview
########
On paper, Talonflame looks like yet another mediocre Pokemon, along with similar to the rest of its friends found in the early routes. However, Talonflame has a saving grace in the form of Gale Wings, which turns it into a premier Pokemon with its ability to destroy opposing Pokemon with powerful priority Brave Birds and benefit the team with its plethora of support options. However, the skies aren't completely clear for Talonflame, as it is weak to the common Water-, Electric-, (AC) and Rock-type moves that plague the metagame, has rather mediocre stats to back up its amazing ability, and has a movepool that is nothing to write home about, therefore limiting its options. However, don't let these shortcomings put you off from using Talonflame, as it is by far one of the most potent attackers and effective supporters in the metagame.
Offensive Support
########
name: Offensive Support
move 1: Brave Bird
move 2: Flare Blitz
move 3: Tailwind / Quick Guard
move 4: Protect / Quick Guard
ability: Gale Wings
item: Life Orb / Sky Plate
evs: 84 HP / 252 Atk / 172 Spe
nature: Adamant
Moves
========
Gale Wings is incredibly useful, as it grants Talonflame priority Tailwind and the most powerful priority move in the game in the form of Brave Bird. Brave Bird is Talonflame's main attack due to the priority it gains from Gale Wings, ripping through Pokemon such as Amoonguss. Talonflame's secondary STAB move, Flare Blitz, (AC) complements Brave Bird fairly well; the two moves form a potent combination resisted only by the Rock typing and a few other dual typings. Tailwind is a priority move that boosts the Speed of the entire team for a few turns. Protect is a staple in Doubles for its ability to scout the opponent's moves and protect the user from damage, especially important considering the ability to double target. Quick Guard can be used in the place of Tailwind or Protect as the utility it provides is incredibly handy on Talonflame. Quick Guard blocks Fake Out from the likes of Mega Kangaskhan, can give your teammate a free turn to move, and has been buffed in that it no longer fails when used in succession.
Set Details
========
The given EVs enable Talonflame to hit with as much power as possible, (RC) as well as outpace max Speed Mega Kangaskhan. As a result, Talonflame can block Mega Kangaskhan's Fake Out with Quick Guard and utilize Brave Bird to nullify Sucker Punch. Talonflame can run max Speed to outpace every Fake Out user in the metagame excluding max Speed Raichu, which Speed ties with it, and max Speed Weavile, which outpaces it anyway. This also enables Talonflame to outpace most opposing Talonflame, which can be a valuable asset. However, maximum Speed investment is unadvised as Raichu and Weavile are too uncommon, and Talonflame can mess with opposing Talonflame with Quick Guard. The item of choice depends on what you want Talonflame to do: it can hold a Sky Plate for a little more survivability at the cost of power, or a Life Orb for the extra power, enabling a guaranteed 2HKO on 244 HP Bold Coba Berry Ludicolo with Brave Bird, (RC) at the cost of survivability. An Adamant nature is run as there is no reason to run a Jolly nature, as Talonflame will use Brave Bird, Tailwind, Quick Guard and Protect most of the time.
Usage Tips
========
Bring Talonflame in early-game to support the team with Tailwind and Quick Guard. Make your move accordingly based around the lead match-up, using Quick Guard turn one when against a lead Kangaskhan, setting up Tailwind when you feel it is needed, such as when facing a particularly fast team, and using Brave Bird or Flare Blitz to deal with opposing threats such as Ludicolo and Scizor. As you can imagine, mirror match-ups consist of many mind games, so make sure to play conservatively in these situations, predicting your opponent's move and using your 45 seconds well. Misprediction might get Talonflame KOed, for example, (RC) by Garchomp's Rock Slide when it uses Brave Bird and the opponent uses Quick Guard.
Team Options
========
Steel-types such as Scizor and Aegislash have good synergy with Talonflame and can deal with the Rock-types that resist Talonflame's attacks. Rotom-W and Rotom-H can deal with opposing Talonflame as well as deal Mega Charizard Y, and the latter can take advantage of the sun that Mega Charizard Y summons. Rock-types such as Tyranitar and Aerodactyl can also deal with opposing Talonflame, and the former can also deal with Rotom-H. Amoonguss walls Rotom-W and threatens it with a STAB Giga Drain. Mega Charizard Y can summon sun, boosting the power of Talonflame's Flare Blitz and compensating its slight lack of power when it holds a Sky Plate. Talonflame and Garchomp create a terrifying offensive core with excellent offensive synergy; for example, Talonflame covers Fairy-types and Ferrothorn, (RC) while Garchomp covers Talonflame and Rotom-H.
Choice Band
########
name: Choice Band
move 1: Brave Bird
move 2: Flare Blitz
move 3: U-Turn
move 4: Tailwind / Me First / Aerial Ace
ability: Gale Wings
item: Choice Band
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
nature: Adamant
Moves
========
Brave Bird is the move that Talonflame will generally be using, (RC) most of the due to its STAB boost and Gale Wings. Flare Blitz is mainly a backup move for when locking Talonflame into Brave Bird isn't optimal, and deals with Pokemon such as Scizor and Aegislash better than Brave Bird does. U-turn is useful on this set as it allows Talonflame to escape from a bad situation, and is Talonflame's best move for Tyranitar. The last moveslot is mainly filler, but there are a few options to consider. Tailwind serves the same purpose as on the standard set, and can help bluff an non-Choice set. However, Talonflame is basically forced to switch out on the following turn after using Tailwind, so it will soon be clear that Talonflame is Choice-locked. Before setting up Tailwind, Me First helps Talonflame against Pokemon such as Aerodactyl, stealing Rock Slide and OHKOing them. However, the move is a little situational. Aerial Ace can also be used in the fourth moveslot as a recoil-free way of dealing with weakened opponents, but is very weak and forces Talonflame to switch out after using it.
Set Details
========
The EVs are to outpace opposing Talonflame and maximize its firepower. An Adamant nature and Choice Band augment Talonflame's offensive capabilities, turning it into a nuke that can spam Brave Bird with little worry. A Jolly nature is worthless, as Talonflame is mostly going to spam Brave Bird.
Usage Tips
========
Brave Bird is most often the best move to use, though it should not be used recklessly. Write down the opposing team and refer to it whenever you are making decisions, as you will often find situations mid-game where Brave Bird is not the best move to use. Switch strategically to ensure that the Pokemon you are switching in takes as little damage as possible. An example includes luring a Rock Slide with Talonflame and switching into Garchomp to take the hit, allowing Talonflame to come in later and lock itself into the appropriate move. General decisions include using U-turn when Tyranitar is on the opponent's side of the field, using Flare Blitz when Aegislash or Scizor is a threat to your team, and using your Talonflame's filler move when you deem it to be appropriate.
Team Options
========
Rotom-W and Rotom-H can deal with opposing Talonflame, and the latter can deal with Mega Charizard Y very well. Rotom-M, on the other hand, is a great Pokemon to deal with opposing Rotom-W and Tyranitar. Tyranitar can deal with Rotom-H, Talonflame, and Mega Charizard Y well, though it must be wary of Talonflame's U-turn and Mega Charizard Y's Solar Beam. Fake Out users such as Mega Kangaskhan can prevent Rock Slides and enable Talonflame to U-turn out safely and bring in a Pokemon with a better match-up against the opponent's Pokemon. Fake Out users can also give Talonflame a turn to set up with Tailwind or utilize another move. The combination of Scizor and Talonflame is effective, as Scizor can deal with the Rock-types that wall Talonflame and Talonflame can deal with Aegislash, which can cause problems for Scizor that lack Thief. However, Scizor is walled by Rotom-W and Rotom-H, and must be wary of the former's Will-O-Wisp and the latter's Overheat. Garchomp also makes an excellent partner, as it can defeat Rotom-H, though it must be wary of Will-O-Wisp. Amoonguss is capable of dealing with Rotom-W and Tyranitar as well as supporting Talonflame with Spore and Rage Powder. However, it must be wary of the Crunch and Rock Slide from Tyranitar. Lastly, Mold Breaker Haxorus can 2HKO 252 HP / 44 Def Rotom-W and always OHKO Rotom-H with Earthquake.
Other Options
########
Though it doesn't have the best offensive movepool, Talonflame has a very good supportive movepool and a few other offensive options to consider. Talonflame has a wide range of support moves that can go on the standard set, the most notable of which are Will-O-Wisp, Taunt, and Roost. However, these are generally outclassed by the options that are currently in the set. Overheat can be used on the standard set with a Mild nature and an EV spread of 172 Atk / 252 SpA / 84 Spe. However, such a set packs a weaker Brave Bird and forces Talonflame to run a Life Orb, which may be unattractive due to the recoil it induces. On the subject of Overheat, Talonflame has a range of special moves that it can use, such as Hidden Power, Fire Blast, Flamethrower, and Solar Beam. Acrobatics can be used over Aerial Ace on the Choice Band set in case Talonflame is on the receiving end of a Knock Off. However, Knock Off is too uncommon to recommend preparing for, and Aerial Ace is ironically stronger when Talonflame holds an item.
A Charti Berry or Wacan Berry can be used with an EV spread of 172 HP / 252 Atk / 84 Spe to guarantee that Talonflame can survive Mega Tyranitar's Rock Slide after Sandstorm damage as well as or Modest Rotom-H's Thunderbolt. Natural Gift can be used to give Talonflame a better way to deal with Rotom-W and Tyranitar in tandem with Liechi Berry and Salac Berry, respectively. While the former item could have utility if not used up by Natural Gift, the latter is mostly unnecessary, as the Speed boost is irrelevant to most moves bar Flare Blitz. Furthermore, Natural Gift can only be used once without access to Recycle or Harvest, (AC) two things that Talonflame lacks, so it isn't recommended. Lastly, Talonflame has access to Swords Dance and Bulk Up to boost its stats. however, but Talonflame isn't going to be around for long enough to utilize these moves well.
Checks & Counters
########
**Electric-types**: Rotom-W and Rotom-H are Talonflame's worst enemies, as it cannot do much damage to either of them with its STAB moves. Mega Manectric can deal with Talonflame well due to Intimidate, though it must be wary of a sun-boosted Flare Blitz. Mega Ampharos can tank Talonflame's moves better than Mega Manectric can, but doesn't have access to Intimidate.
**Rock-types**: Tyranitar resists both of Talonflame's STAB attacks, although it must be wary of Talonflame's U-turn, as it will 2HKO 92 HP / 124 Def Tyranitar 5.1% of the time. Furthermore, Tyranitar is vulnerable to double targeting, (RC) and could be KOed that turn. Rhydon and Rhyperior completely wall Talonflame, but they must be wary of one of Talonflame's usual teammates: Rotom-W. Aerodactyl gives Talonflame competition as a Tailwind user and can OHKO it with its STAB Rock Slide. However, like Rhyperior, Aerodactyl must be wary of Rotom-W.
**Water-types**: Slowbro and Rotom-W can tank both of Talonflame's STAB attacks and retaliate with STAB Scald and Hydro Pump, respectively. However, the former must be wary of Talonflame's U-turn. Azumarill is capable of tanking Talonflame's Brave Bird and OHKOing back with STAB Waterfall or Aqua Jet, though the latter requires some prior damage. However, it must be wary of Rotom-W, which can OHKO with Thunderbolt. Gyarados is similar to Azumarill, though it trades Aqua Jet for Intimidate, making it an even better way to deal with Talonflame.
**Quick Guard**: Quick Guard users such as Mienshao and opposing Talonflame play mind games with Talonflame, as they are capable of wasting its turn with Quick Guard and allowing a teammate to cripple or KO it.
**Intimidate**: Pokemon with Intimidate, such as Scrafty and Salamence, (AC) can weaken Talonflame and force it to switch out.
**Rock-type Moves**: Pokemon such as Garchomp and Salamence often carry Rock Slide for coverage. They can often take a hit and OHKO Talonflame in return.
########
On paper, Talonflame looks like yet another mediocre Pokemon, along with similar to the rest of its friends found in the early routes. However, Talonflame has a saving grace in the form of Gale Wings, which turns it into a premier Pokemon with its ability to destroy opposing Pokemon with powerful priority Brave Birds and benefit the team with its plethora of support options. However, the skies aren't completely clear for Talonflame, as it is weak to the common Water-, Electric-, (AC) and Rock-type moves that plague the metagame, has rather mediocre stats to back up its amazing ability, and has a movepool that is nothing to write home about, therefore limiting its options. However, don't let these shortcomings put you off from using Talonflame, as it is by far one of the most potent attackers and effective supporters in the metagame.
Offensive Support
########
name: Offensive Support
move 1: Brave Bird
move 2: Flare Blitz
move 3: Tailwind / Quick Guard
move 4: Protect / Quick Guard
ability: Gale Wings
item: Life Orb / Sky Plate
evs: 84 HP / 252 Atk / 172 Spe
nature: Adamant
Moves
========
Gale Wings is incredibly useful, as it grants Talonflame priority Tailwind and the most powerful priority move in the game in the form of Brave Bird. Brave Bird is Talonflame's main attack due to the priority it gains from Gale Wings, ripping through Pokemon such as Amoonguss. Talonflame's secondary STAB move, Flare Blitz, (AC) complements Brave Bird fairly well; the two moves form a potent combination resisted only by the Rock typing and a few other dual typings. Tailwind is a priority move that boosts the Speed of the entire team for a few turns. Protect is a staple in Doubles for its ability to scout the opponent's moves and protect the user from damage, especially important considering the ability to double target. Quick Guard can be used in the place of Tailwind or Protect as the utility it provides is incredibly handy on Talonflame. Quick Guard blocks Fake Out from the likes of Mega Kangaskhan, can give your teammate a free turn to move, and has been buffed in that it no longer fails when used in succession.
Set Details
========
The given EVs enable Talonflame to hit with as much power as possible, (RC) as well as outpace max Speed Mega Kangaskhan. As a result, Talonflame can block Mega Kangaskhan's Fake Out with Quick Guard and utilize Brave Bird to nullify Sucker Punch. Talonflame can run max Speed to outpace every Fake Out user in the metagame excluding max Speed Raichu, which Speed ties with it, and max Speed Weavile, which outpaces it anyway. This also enables Talonflame to outpace most opposing Talonflame, which can be a valuable asset. However, maximum Speed investment is unadvised as Raichu and Weavile are too uncommon, and Talonflame can mess with opposing Talonflame with Quick Guard. The item of choice depends on what you want Talonflame to do: it can hold a Sky Plate for a little more survivability at the cost of power, or a Life Orb for the extra power, enabling a guaranteed 2HKO on 244 HP Bold Coba Berry Ludicolo with Brave Bird, (RC) at the cost of survivability. An Adamant nature is run as there is no reason to run a Jolly nature, as Talonflame will use Brave Bird, Tailwind, Quick Guard and Protect most of the time.
Usage Tips
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Bring Talonflame in early-game to support the team with Tailwind and Quick Guard. Make your move accordingly based around the lead match-up, using Quick Guard turn one when against a lead Kangaskhan, setting up Tailwind when you feel it is needed, such as when facing a particularly fast team, and using Brave Bird or Flare Blitz to deal with opposing threats such as Ludicolo and Scizor. As you can imagine, mirror match-ups consist of many mind games, so make sure to play conservatively in these situations, predicting your opponent's move and using your 45 seconds well. Misprediction might get Talonflame KOed, for example, (RC) by Garchomp's Rock Slide when it uses Brave Bird and the opponent uses Quick Guard.
Team Options
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Steel-types such as Scizor and Aegislash have good synergy with Talonflame and can deal with the Rock-types that resist Talonflame's attacks. Rotom-W and Rotom-H can deal with opposing Talonflame as well as deal Mega Charizard Y, and the latter can take advantage of the sun that Mega Charizard Y summons. Rock-types such as Tyranitar and Aerodactyl can also deal with opposing Talonflame, and the former can also deal with Rotom-H. Amoonguss walls Rotom-W and threatens it with a STAB Giga Drain. Mega Charizard Y can summon sun, boosting the power of Talonflame's Flare Blitz and compensating its slight lack of power when it holds a Sky Plate. Talonflame and Garchomp create a terrifying offensive core with excellent offensive synergy; for example, Talonflame covers Fairy-types and Ferrothorn, (RC) while Garchomp covers Talonflame and Rotom-H.
Choice Band
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name: Choice Band
move 1: Brave Bird
move 2: Flare Blitz
move 3: U-Turn
move 4: Tailwind / Me First / Aerial Ace
ability: Gale Wings
item: Choice Band
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
nature: Adamant
Moves
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Brave Bird is the move that Talonflame will generally be using, (RC) most of the due to its STAB boost and Gale Wings. Flare Blitz is mainly a backup move for when locking Talonflame into Brave Bird isn't optimal, and deals with Pokemon such as Scizor and Aegislash better than Brave Bird does. U-turn is useful on this set as it allows Talonflame to escape from a bad situation, and is Talonflame's best move for Tyranitar. The last moveslot is mainly filler, but there are a few options to consider. Tailwind serves the same purpose as on the standard set, and can help bluff an non-Choice set. However, Talonflame is basically forced to switch out on the following turn after using Tailwind, so it will soon be clear that Talonflame is Choice-locked. Before setting up Tailwind, Me First helps Talonflame against Pokemon such as Aerodactyl, stealing Rock Slide and OHKOing them. However, the move is a little situational. Aerial Ace can also be used in the fourth moveslot as a recoil-free way of dealing with weakened opponents, but is very weak and forces Talonflame to switch out after using it.
Set Details
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The EVs are to outpace opposing Talonflame and maximize its firepower. An Adamant nature and Choice Band augment Talonflame's offensive capabilities, turning it into a nuke that can spam Brave Bird with little worry. A Jolly nature is worthless, as Talonflame is mostly going to spam Brave Bird.
Usage Tips
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Brave Bird is most often the best move to use, though it should not be used recklessly. Write down the opposing team and refer to it whenever you are making decisions, as you will often find situations mid-game where Brave Bird is not the best move to use. Switch strategically to ensure that the Pokemon you are switching in takes as little damage as possible. An example includes luring a Rock Slide with Talonflame and switching into Garchomp to take the hit, allowing Talonflame to come in later and lock itself into the appropriate move. General decisions include using U-turn when Tyranitar is on the opponent's side of the field, using Flare Blitz when Aegislash or Scizor is a threat to your team, and using your Talonflame's filler move when you deem it to be appropriate.
Team Options
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Rotom-W and Rotom-H can deal with opposing Talonflame, and the latter can deal with Mega Charizard Y very well. Rotom-M, on the other hand, is a great Pokemon to deal with opposing Rotom-W and Tyranitar. Tyranitar can deal with Rotom-H, Talonflame, and Mega Charizard Y well, though it must be wary of Talonflame's U-turn and Mega Charizard Y's Solar Beam. Fake Out users such as Mega Kangaskhan can prevent Rock Slides and enable Talonflame to U-turn out safely and bring in a Pokemon with a better match-up against the opponent's Pokemon. Fake Out users can also give Talonflame a turn to set up with Tailwind or utilize another move. The combination of Scizor and Talonflame is effective, as Scizor can deal with the Rock-types that wall Talonflame and Talonflame can deal with Aegislash, which can cause problems for Scizor that lack Thief. However, Scizor is walled by Rotom-W and Rotom-H, and must be wary of the former's Will-O-Wisp and the latter's Overheat. Garchomp also makes an excellent partner, as it can defeat Rotom-H, though it must be wary of Will-O-Wisp. Amoonguss is capable of dealing with Rotom-W and Tyranitar as well as supporting Talonflame with Spore and Rage Powder. However, it must be wary of the Crunch and Rock Slide from Tyranitar. Lastly, Mold Breaker Haxorus can 2HKO 252 HP / 44 Def Rotom-W and always OHKO Rotom-H with Earthquake.
Other Options
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Though it doesn't have the best offensive movepool, Talonflame has a very good supportive movepool and a few other offensive options to consider. Talonflame has a wide range of support moves that can go on the standard set, the most notable of which are Will-O-Wisp, Taunt, and Roost. However, these are generally outclassed by the options that are currently in the set. Overheat can be used on the standard set with a Mild nature and an EV spread of 172 Atk / 252 SpA / 84 Spe. However, such a set packs a weaker Brave Bird and forces Talonflame to run a Life Orb, which may be unattractive due to the recoil it induces. On the subject of Overheat, Talonflame has a range of special moves that it can use, such as Hidden Power, Fire Blast, Flamethrower, and Solar Beam. Acrobatics can be used over Aerial Ace on the Choice Band set in case Talonflame is on the receiving end of a Knock Off. However, Knock Off is too uncommon to recommend preparing for, and Aerial Ace is ironically stronger when Talonflame holds an item.
A Charti Berry or Wacan Berry can be used with an EV spread of 172 HP / 252 Atk / 84 Spe to guarantee that Talonflame can survive Mega Tyranitar's Rock Slide after Sandstorm damage as well as or Modest Rotom-H's Thunderbolt. Natural Gift can be used to give Talonflame a better way to deal with Rotom-W and Tyranitar in tandem with Liechi Berry and Salac Berry, respectively. While the former item could have utility if not used up by Natural Gift, the latter is mostly unnecessary, as the Speed boost is irrelevant to most moves bar Flare Blitz. Furthermore, Natural Gift can only be used once without access to Recycle or Harvest, (AC) two things that Talonflame lacks, so it isn't recommended. Lastly, Talonflame has access to Swords Dance and Bulk Up to boost its stats. however, but Talonflame isn't going to be around for long enough to utilize these moves well.
Checks & Counters
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**Electric-types**: Rotom-W and Rotom-H are Talonflame's worst enemies, as it cannot do much damage to either of them with its STAB moves. Mega Manectric can deal with Talonflame well due to Intimidate, though it must be wary of a sun-boosted Flare Blitz. Mega Ampharos can tank Talonflame's moves better than Mega Manectric can, but doesn't have access to Intimidate.
**Rock-types**: Tyranitar resists both of Talonflame's STAB attacks, although it must be wary of Talonflame's U-turn, as it will 2HKO 92 HP / 124 Def Tyranitar 5.1% of the time. Furthermore, Tyranitar is vulnerable to double targeting, (RC) and could be KOed that turn. Rhydon and Rhyperior completely wall Talonflame, but they must be wary of one of Talonflame's usual teammates: Rotom-W. Aerodactyl gives Talonflame competition as a Tailwind user and can OHKO it with its STAB Rock Slide. However, like Rhyperior, Aerodactyl must be wary of Rotom-W.
**Water-types**: Slowbro and Rotom-W can tank both of Talonflame's STAB attacks and retaliate with STAB Scald and Hydro Pump, respectively. However, the former must be wary of Talonflame's U-turn. Azumarill is capable of tanking Talonflame's Brave Bird and OHKOing back with STAB Waterfall or Aqua Jet, though the latter requires some prior damage. However, it must be wary of Rotom-W, which can OHKO with Thunderbolt. Gyarados is similar to Azumarill, though it trades Aqua Jet for Intimidate, making it an even better way to deal with Talonflame.
**Quick Guard**: Quick Guard users such as Mienshao and opposing Talonflame play mind games with Talonflame, as they are capable of wasting its turn with Quick Guard and allowing a teammate to cripple or KO it.
**Intimidate**: Pokemon with Intimidate, such as Scrafty and Salamence, (AC) can weaken Talonflame and force it to switch out.
**Rock-type Moves**: Pokemon such as Garchomp and Salamence often carry Rock Slide for coverage. They can often take a hit and OHKO Talonflame in return.
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Thanks GatoDelFuego! This is DONE.