Draft Quaquaval

[Luxanse]

[overview]
**Draft order**: Late round 2 onwards

**Price range**: 14-16 points

**Overview**: Quaquaval can range from being a potent setup sweeper due to the combination of Swords Dance or Bulk Up, Moxie, and Aqua Step to being a solid utility Pokemon thanks to moves such as Knock Off, Roost, and Rapid Spin. Quaquaval has a lot of potential in any given matchup thanks to its versatility. However, its Speed is somewhat middling, allowing faster Choice Scarf users to outspeed and threaten it at +1. Furthermore, its relatively limited coverage leaves it vulnerable to Pokemon that can take hits from its STAB moves.


[strategy comments]
Common Roles
========
**Wallbreaker**: Access to strong STAB moves such as Close Combat and Wave Crash allows Quaquaval to effectively punch holes in your opponent's team. This allows a setup sweeper or cleaner on your team to pick off the remains of whatever is left after Quaquaval has broken through the team.

**Setup sweeper**: Due to the incredibly strong combination of Aqua Step and Moxie, Quaquaval can very easily snowball into a winning position. This set generally runs Fighting-type STAB moves, a combination of necessary coverage moves, and a setup move to allow the iconic duck to run away with the game.

**Utility**: Quaquaval's utility arsenal is quite large. With access to moves such as Knock Off, Flip Turn, Roost, and Rapid Spin, it can very reliably disrupt your opponent's gameplan by removing items or entry hazards, or it can create opportunities for you by gaining momentum through Flip Turn or U-turn.

Common Moves
========
**Primary STAB moves**: Aqua Step, Wave Crash, Close Combat, Low Kick, Aqua Jet, Flip Turn

**Setup moves**: Swords Dance, Bulk Up

**Utility moves**: Rapid Spin, Roost, Encore, Taunt, U-turn, Baton Pass

**Coverage**: Brave Bird, Ice Spinner, Triple Axel, Knock Off

Niche Moves
========
**Brick Break**: While generally Close Combat is the stronger and more consistent option in terms of STAB moves, Brick Break can be run as a measure against Reflect, Light Screen, and Aurora Veil.

**Facade**: Quaquaval can be quite vulnerable to status from common checks such as Will-O-Wisp from Rotom-W. Facade can be used to mitigate this weakness somewhat.

**Acrobatics**: This move can be a solid alternative to Brave Bird on sets where Quaquaval wants to use a consumable item like a Berry. While not quite as strong as Brave Bird, Acrobatics does not have recoil.

**Upper Hand**: Opposing priority moves are something to be wary of when using Quaquaval, since it can easily boost its Speed with Aqua Step. Upper Hand allows Quaquaval to deny these priority moves while still doing damage to its foe.

**Fling**: With Aqua Step and Close Combat as Quaquaval's main STAB moves on most setup variants, Fling can be an option to deal with bulky Psychic- or Ghost-type Pokemon. When holding a Big Nugget, it can get a maximum Base Power of 130, which allows it to be a powerful alternative to Knock Off.

Common Items
========
**Heavy-Duty Boots**: On offensive sets, Quaquaval generally wants to have as much health as possible so it won't get picked off by priority moves, Rocky Helmet, and other forms of damage it cannot avoid. For supportive sets, it commonly wants to function as an entry hazard remover due to its access to Rapid Spin. Being able to remove Spikes and Toxic Spikes without taking too much damage or being poisoned is especially valuable.

**Damage-Boosting items**: Quaquaval's limited coverage results in it mainly using its STAB moves in any given matchup. Because of this, Mystic Water and Black Belt are great options to allow it to push past certain Pokemon that would otherwise be able to switch in and threaten it out.

**Choice Band**: Choice Band is a great option for wallbreaking. Wave Crash + Close Combat is a very tough combination to deal with, and alongside this, Moxie can further boost its wallbreaking potential.

**Protective Pads**: Quaquaval mainly wants to use physical contact moves, which opens the door for the opponent to use Rocky Helmet as a method of easily punishing Quaquaval. Protective Pads circumvents this issue entirely at the cost of less power compared to a damage-boosting item.

Niche Items
========
**Sitrus Berry**: In a similar fashion to Heavy-Duty Boots, Sitrus Berry gives Quaquaval added longevity without having to sacrifice a moveslot for Roost when it can not afford to run it in a matchup. However, Roost + Sitrus Berry can also be very nice to give Quaquaval extra leeway in checking tough offensive threats.

**Lum Berry**: Quaquaval can be quite vulnerable to status, with burn and paralysis being especially painful for it to deal with. Lum Berry can help with this by curing Quaquaval's status once.

**Assault Vest**: While Quaquaval has great setup potential and utility moves such as Roost, Assault Vest can allow it to become a reasonable check to certain special attackers such as Chi-Yu and Volcarona. Quaquaval's large amount of attacking options allow it to easily run Assault Vest if needed.

**Rocky Helmet**: Quaquaval's Water / Fighting typing has a good set of resistances that allows Quaquaval to naturally check popular threats such as Weavile, Kingambit, and Hisuian Samurott. Rocky Helmet punishes these physical attackers when they use their STAB moves.

**Weakness Policy**: In certain scenarios, Weakness Policy can be used as an alternative form of setup to allow for more coverage moves. It can also be used alongside Bulk Up's Defense boost to very quickly get +3 Attack while taking reduced damage.

Tera
========
While Quaquaval does not require Tera to be viable at all, it is a great option to further boost its offensive potential. Both of its STAB types make for great Tera types, as many checks struggle to resist both. Tera Flying and Ice are useful, boosting coverage moves such as Brave Bird and Triple Axel and allowing Quaquaval a stronger option in dealing with defensive Grass-type switch-ins like Amoonguss and Shaymin. Alternatively, gaining extra coverage can be extremely valuable; for example, Tera Electric can make dealing with bulky Water-type Pokemon such as Primarina and Slowking much easier. DefensiveTera types such as Fairy and Steel can also be used to give Quaquaval extra setup opportunities on Pokemon it normally would not be able to set up on.

Draft Strategy
========
Due to its versatility, Quaquaval can easily fit on a lot of drafts. Since Quaquaval is not reliant on Tera, it pairs well with higher-tier Pokemon that might appreciate Tera more. However, if you plan to make Quaquaval your Tera Captain, drafting higher-tier Pokemon that are restricted from using Tera is valuable. Another thing to keep in mind when drafting Quaquaval is that it is not limited to merely being an offensive tool. Moves like Rapid Spin allow it to safely remove entry hazards for partners such as Chi-Yu and Enamorus that would normally fear them.

**Entry hazard control**: While Quaquaval has the potential to snowball offensively, creating optimal conditions for this is preferred. Entry hazards such as Spikes can break down would-be checks to allow Quaquaval to push past them. A few examples of hazard-setting partners are Garchomp, which together with Quaquaval makes for a nice one-two punch in terms of hazard support as well as offense, and Meowscarada, which can also lure Fire-types that Quaquaval can set up on or punish.

**Special wallbreakers**: Quaquaval is a great physical attacker; however, certain walls can end up being too much for Quaquaval to get through. For walls that are simply too physically defensive, or that can boost their Defense through moves such as Iron Defense, it is important to have strong special attacking options alongside Quaquaval so that you can properly pressure the opposing team. It is also important to note that Quaquaval can easily enable these other wallbreakers thanks to its access to Flip Turn and U-turn. A few examples of such partners are Darkrai, which can help Quaquaval in taking down physically defensive Psychic-types, or Thundurus-T, which is a great Pokemon to have for bulky Water-types that would want to punish Quaquaval's Aqua Step.

**Dual screens support**: With offensive sets usually relying on the combination of Aqua Step and Moxie, dual screens support can be a great tool to further enable Quaquaval. Setting up with Swords Dance or Bulk Up becomes incredibly potent with the decreased damage, especially when combined with Roost for longevity. A few examples of partners that can set dual screens are Alolan Ninetales, which can also pressure Grass-types that Quaquaval struggles with, or Klefki, (AC) which can also set entry hazards effectively.

Checks and Counters
========
**Water- and Fighting-type resistances**: Quaquaval's limited coverage means that it will be largely relying on STAB moves such as Aqua Step, Close Combat, and Wave Crash to deal significant damage. This means that Pokemon that can resist both or even one of Quaquaval's STAB types can effectively stop it from getting out of hand. Pokemon such as Latias, Azumarill, and Toxapex can all make the matchup much harder for Quaquaval.

**Status conditions**: Both burn and paralysis are great ways of dealing with Quaquaval, as burn will make it harder to pick up KOs while paralysis makes it harder to outspeed offensive threats after Aqua Step. Pokemon such as Zapdos, Rotom-W, and Gholdengo can be especially tough to handle, as they all also resist one of Quaquaval's STAB types while being able to dish out status conditions in return.

**Physical walls**: Since Quaquaval is primarily a physical attacker, Pokemon with a high enough Defense stat or access to Defense-boosting moves such as Iron Defense and Acid Armor can stop Quaquaval from winning the game. Pokemon like Skarmory and Iron Hands naturally will be able to take the hit and punish Quaquaval with super effective moves or even through means like Rocky Helmet.

**Faster foes**: With its average base Speed, Quaquaval lacks an immediate Speed advantage over a lot of other offensive Pokemon. Because of this, it can be relatively easily outrun even after an Aqua Step by faster Choice Scarf users or Pokemon that have other ways to boost Speed. Speed Booster Energy Iron Valiant and Iron Bundle as well as Choice Scarf Meowscarada and Enamorus can all outspeed Quaquaval and threaten a KO to revenge kill it in return.

[credits]
Written by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/luxanse.630002/
Quality checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/olivia.620359/
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/hacker.387847/
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/vmnunes.613460/
Grammar checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/solarbeam.470115/
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/ken.594478/

 

[olivia]

remove add comment

needs to be more flamboyant

**Draft order**: Late Round round 2 - Early Round 3

[overview]
**Price range**: 15-16 Points points

**Overview**: Quaquaval can function on a team in various variety of ways. It can range from being a potent set-up threat due to the combination of Swords Dance or Bulk Up, Moxie, and Aqua Step, to being a solid utility Pokemon thanks to moves such as Knock Off, Roost, and Rapid Spin. Generally speaking, Quaquaval has a lot of potential in any given matchup to help out your team due to the versatility it has thanks to its versatility. However, there are areas in which it does lack a bit. Its speed is somewhat middling, allowing faster Choice Scarf users to outspeed and threaten it at +1. Furthermore, its relatively limited coverage leaves it vulnerable to Pokemon that can take hits from its STABs.


[strategy comments]
Common Roles
========
**Setup Sweeper**: Due to the incredibly strong combination of Aqua Step and Moxie, Quaquaval can very easily snowball itself into a position to win into a winning position. This set generally runs Fighting STAB and a combination of necessary coverage moves and a set-up move to allow the iconic duck to run away with the game.

**Utility**: Quaquaval's utility arsenal is quite large. With access to moves such as Knock Off, Flip Turn, Roost, and Rapid Spin, it can very reliably disrupt your opponent's gameplan by removing items or hazards, or create opportunities for yourself by gaining momentum through Flip Turn or U-Turn.

**Wall-breaker**(rh): Access to strong STAB moves such as Close Combat and Wave Crash allow Quaquaval to effectively punch holes in your opponent's team. This allows a different strong set-up threat or a cleaner on your team to pick off the remains of whatever is left after Quaquaval has broken through the team.

Common Moves
========
**Primary STAB moves**: Aqua Step, Wave Crash, Close Combat, Low Kick, Aqua Jet, Flip Turn, Upper Hand,

**Setup moves**: Swords Dance, Bulk Up, Work Up dont think you're ever running this over Bulk Up

**Utility moves**: Aqua Jet, moved to stab Knock Off, moved to coverage but unsure on this one Rapid Spin, Roost, Encore, Taunt, Flip Turn, moved to stab U-Turn, Baton Pass,

**Coverage**: Acrobatics, Brave Bird, Ice Spinner, Triple Axel, Knock Off,

Niche Moves
========
**Brick Break**: While generally Close Combat is the stronger and more consistent option in terms of STAB, Brick Break can be run as a measure against Reflect and/or Light Screen and Aurora Veil.

**Facade**: Quaquaval can be quite vulnerable to status from common checks such as Will-O-Wisp from Rotom-Wash. Facade can be used to mitigate this weakness somewhat.

**Fling + Big Nugget**: With Aqua Step and Close Combat as your main STAB moves on most set-up variants, Fling can be an option to deal with bulky Psychic- or Ghost-Type Pokemon

**Endure + Reversal**: Quaquaval can boost its speed quite easily, because of this Reversal sets can be tough to deal with in the right scenario, as most checks will only be prepared for Close Combat.
could MAYBE mention feather dance but idk

Common Items
========
**Heavy-Duty Boots**: On offensive sets, Quaquaval generally wants to have as much health as possible so it won't get picked off by priority, Rocky Helmets, and other forms of damage it cannot avoid. For supportive sets, it commonly wants to function as a hazard remover due to its access to Rapid Spin. Especially being able to remove Spikes and Toxic Spikes without having to suffer from taking too much damage or being Poisoned is very valuable.

**Mystic Water/Black Belt Damage-boosting items**: Quaquaval's limited coverage results in it mainly clicking its STABs in any given match-up. Because of this, the respective items to boost either of its STAB types are great options to allow it to push past certain Pokemon that would otherwise be able to switch in and threaten it out.
just for consistency

**Sitrus Berry**: In a similar fashion to Heavy-Duty Boots, Sitrus Berry gives Quaquaval added longevity without having to sacrifice a move slot for Roost when it can not afford to run it in a match-up. However, Roost + Sitrus Berry can also be very nice to give yourself extra leeway in checking tough offensive threats with this Pokemon.

**Choice Band**: Choice Band is a great option for wall-breaking.(rh) Wave Crash + Close Combat is a very tough combination to deal with and alongside this, Moxie can further boost its wall-breaking (rh) potential.

**Lum Berry**: Quaquaval can be quite vulnerable to status, with Burn burn and Paralysis paralysis being especially painful for the Pokemon to deal with. Lum Berry gives a buffer to this way of dealing with Quaquaval. this could move to niche perhaps

Niche Items
========
**Protective Pads**: Quaquaval mainly wants to use physical contact moves, which opens the door for the opponent to use Rocky Helmet as a method of easily punishing Quaquaval. Protective Pads circumvents this issue entirely at the cost of less power compared to a boosting damage-boosting item.

**Assault Vest**: While Quaquaval has great options in terms of status moves with its set-up moves and utility moves such as Roost, Assault Vest can allow it to become a reasonable check to certain Special Attackers special attackers such as Chi-Yu and Volcarona. Quaquaval also has a plethora of damaging moves that make Assault Vest a viable option in certain scenarios. could maybe make this sentence a bit less awkward i.e. "Quaquaval's large amount of attacking options allow it to easily run Assault Vest if needed."

**Rocky Helmet**: Water + Fighting Water- and Fighting-type is a great natural typing STAB combo that allows Quaquaval to naturally check popular threats such as Chien-Pao and Hisuian Samurott. Rocky Helmet punishes these physical attackers using their STAB moves.

**Weakness Policy**: In certain scenarios, Weakness Policy can be used as an alternative form of set-up to allow for more coverage moves. The item can also be used alongside Bulk Up's defense boost to very quickly get +3 Attack while taking reduced damage thanks to the aforementioned defense boost.

Tera
========
While Quaquaval does not require Tera to be viable at all, Tera it is a great option to further boost its offensive potential. Both of its STAB-typings in Water and Fighting make for great Tera types as many checks struggle to resist both types. Aside from the STAB types, boosting Flying- and Ice-type are useful options, boosting coverage moves such as Brave Bird and Triple Axel can be allowing Quaquaval to have a viable stronger option in dealing with defensive Grass-Type Pokemon such as like Amoonguss or Shaymin that would normally be fine switching in. Alternatively, gaining extra coverage can be extremely valuable, as Electric-type for example can make dealing with bulky Water-Type Pokemon such as Primarina or Slowking much easier. Defensive Tera-Types such as Fairy-type or Steel-type can also be used to give Quaquaval extra set-up opportunities on Pokemon it normally would not be able to set up on.

Draft Strategy
========
Due to its versatility, Quaquaval can easily fit on a lot of drafts. Since As Quaquaval is not reliant on Tera, it pairs well with higher-tier Pokemon that might appreciate Tera more. However, if you plan to make Quaquaval your Tera captain, drafting higher-tier Pokemon that are Tera-banned restricted from using Tera is recommended valuable. Another thing to keep in mind when drafting Quaquaval is that it is not limited to merely being an offensive tool. Moves such as like Rapid Spin allow it to safely remove hazards for partners such as Chi-Yu and Enamorus-Incarnate that would normally fear hazards.

**Entry Hazard Setters Hazard control**: While Quaquaval has the potential to snowball offensively, creating optimal conditions for this is preferred. Entry hazards such as Spikes can break down would-be checks, to allow Quaquaval to push past them. A few examples of such partners are Garchomp, which together with Quaquaval make for a nice one-two punch, both in terms of hazard support as well as offense, or Meowscarada, which can also bait out lure Fire-types that Quaquaval can set up on or punish.

**Special Wall-breakers wallbreakers**: Quaquaval is a great physical attacker, however, certain walls could end up being too much for Quaquaval to get through. For walls that are simply too physically defensive, or that can boost their defense through moves such as Iron Defense, it is important to have strong Special-Attacking special attacking options alongside Quaquaval so that you can properly pressure the opposing team. It is also important to note that Quaquaval can easily enable these other wall-breakers thanks to its access to Flip Turn and U-Turn. A few examples of such partners could be Darkrai, which can help Quaquaval in taking down physically defensive Psychic types, or Thundurus-Therian which is a great Pokemon to have for the bulky Water-types that would want to punish Quaquaval's Aqua Step.

**Screens Support support**: With offensive sets usually relying on the combination of Aqua Step + and Moxie, screens support can be a great tool to further enable Quaquaval. Setting up with Swords Dance or Bulk Up becomes incredibly potent with the decreased damage, especially when combined with Roost for longevity. A few examples of such partners are Alolan Ninetales, which can also pressure Grass Types that Quaquaval struggles with, or Klefki which can also use entry hazards effectively.

**Knock-Off Support users**: With items such as Rocky Helmet or Red Card being fairly strong in limiting Quaquaval, Knock Off is a great tool to be able to limit your opponent's counter-play in this regard. While it does have access to the move itself, it is hard to fit every single time. A few examples of such partners are Iron Treads, which can also effectively set entry hazards for Quaquaval, or Tornadus-Therian which can also pivot on Steel-types to give Quaquaval more opportunities to attack or set up.

Checks and Counters
========
**STAB Resistances resistances**: Quaquaval's limited coverage means that it will be largely relying on STAB moves such as Aqua Step, Close Combat, and Wave Crash to deal significant damage. This means that Pokemon that can resist both or even one of Quaquaval's types can effectively stop it from getting out of hand. Pokemon such as Latias, Azumarill, or Toxapex can all make the match-up much harder for Quaquaval.

**Status Conditions conditions**: Both burn and paralysis are great ways of dealing with Quaquaval, with burn limiting its Attack stat, thus making it harder to pick up KOs, and with paralysis limiting its Speed, thus making it harder to outspeed offensive threats after Aqua Step. Pokemon such as Zapdos, Rotom-Wash, and Gholdengo can be especially tough to handle, as they all also resist one of Quaquaval's STABs whilst being able to dish out status conditions in return.

**Physically Defensive Walls Physical walls**: Since Quaquaval is primarily a physical attacker, Pokemon with a high enough defense stat or access to defense-boosting moves such as Iron Defense or Acid Armor, can stop Quaquaval from winning the game. Pokemon like Skarmory or Iron Hands naturally will be able to take the hit and punish Quaquaval with Super Effective moves or even through means like Rocky Helmet.

**Choice Scarfers and Faster Threats Faster foes**: With its base speed sitting at 85 average base speed, Quaquaval lacks an immediate speed advantage over a lot of other offensive Pokemon. Because of this, it can be relatively easily outrun at +1 even after an Aqua Step by faster Choice Scarfers users or Pokemon that have other forms of boosting Speed ways to boost speed. Speed Booster Energy Iron Valiant and Iron Bundle as well as Choice Scarf Meowscarada and Enamorus-I can all outspeed Quaquaval and threaten a KO to revenge it in return.

[credits]
Written by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/luxanse.630002/
Quality checked by:


Grammar checked by:

amqc :D implement what you want/like/dont hate

 

[Luxanse]

remove add comment


amqc :D implement what you want/like/dont hate

Implemented, ready for QC1

Didn't mention Feather Dance, think it's a bit too niche perhaps

 

[Hacker]

qc 1/2

[overview]
**Draft order**: Late round 2 onwards

**Price range**: 15 14-16 points

**Overview**: Quaquaval can function on a team in a variety of ways. It can range from being a potent set-up threat due to the combination of Swords Dance or Bulk Up, Moxie, and Aqua Step, to being a solid utility Pokemon thanks to moves such as Knock Off, Roost, and Rapid Spin. Generally speaking, Quaquaval has a lot of potential in any given matchup thanks to its versatility. However, there are areas in which it does lack a bit. Its speed is somewhat middling, allowing faster Choice Scarf users to outspeed and threaten it at +1. Furthermore, its relatively limited coverage leaves it vulnerable to Pokemon that can take hits from its STABs.


[strategy comments]
Common Roles
========
**Setup Sweeper**: Due to the incredibly strong combination of Aqua Step and Moxie, Quaquaval can very easily snowball into a winning position. This set generally runs Fighting STAB and a combination of necessary coverage moves and a set-up move to allow the iconic duck to run away with the game.

**Utility**: Quaquaval's utility arsenal is quite large. With access to moves such as Knock Off, Flip Turn, Roost, and Rapid Spin, it can very reliably disrupt your opponent's gameplan by removing items or hazards, or create opportunities for yourself by gaining momentum through Flip Turn or U-Turn.

**Wallbreaker**: Access to strong STAB moves such as Close Combat and Wave Crash allow Quaquaval to effectively punch holes in your opponent's team. This allows a different strong set-up threat or a cleaner on your team to pick off the remains of whatever is left after Quaquaval has broken through the team. (i would just put wallbreaker first, then sweeper, then utility. order of most commonly used)

Common Moves
========
**Primary STAB moves**: Aqua Step, Wave Crash, Close Combat, Low Kick, Aqua Jet, Flip Turn

**Setup moves**: Swords Dance, Bulk Up

**Utility moves**: Rapid Spin, Roost, Encore, Taunt, U-Turn, Baton Pass

**Coverage**: Acrobatics, (niche) Brave Bird, Ice Spinner, Triple Axel, Knock Off

Niche Moves (add upper hand)
========
**Brick Break**: While generally Close Combat is the stronger and more consistent option in terms of STAB, Brick Break can be run as a measure against Reflect and/or Light Screen and Aurora Veil.

**Facade**: Quaquaval can be quite vulnerable to status from common checks such as Will-O-Wisp from Rotom-Wash. Facade can be used to mitigate this weakness somewhat.

**Fling + Big Nugget**: With Aqua Step and Close Combat as your main STAB moves on most set-up variants, Fling can be an option to deal with bulky Psychic- or Ghost-Type Pokemon

**Endure + Reversal**: Quaquaval can boost its speed quite easily, because of this Reversal sets can be tough to deal with in the right scenario, as most checks will only be prepared for Close Combat. (feels too niche, also just folds to priority unless u fit upperhand but lol)

Common Items
========
**Heavy-Duty Boots**: On offensive sets, Quaquaval generally wants to have as much health as possible so it won't get picked off by priority, Rocky Helmets, and other forms of damage it cannot avoid. For supportive sets, it commonly wants to function as a hazard remover due to its access to Rapid Spin. Especially being able to remove Spikes and Toxic Spikes without having to suffer from taking too much damage or being Poisoned is very valuable.

**Damage-boosting Items**: Quaquaval's limited coverage results in it mainly clicking its STABs in any given match-up. Because of this, the respective items to boost either of its STAB types are great options to allow it to push past certain Pokemon that would otherwise be able to switch in and threaten it out.

**Sitrus Berry**: In a similar fashion to Heavy-Duty Boots, Sitrus Berry gives Quaquaval added longevity without having to sacrifice a move slot for Roost when it can not afford to run it in a match-up. However, Roost + Sitrus Berry can also be very nice to give yourself extra leeway in checking tough offensive threats with this Pokemon. (would move to niche)

**Choice Band**: Choice Band is a great option for wallbreaking. Wave Crash + Close Combat is a very tough combination to deal with and alongside this, Moxie can further boost its wallbreaking potential.

Niche Items
========
**Protective Pads**: Quaquaval mainly wants to use physical contact moves, which opens the door for the opponent to use Rocky Helmet as a method of easily punishing Quaquaval. Protective Pads circumvents this issue entirely at the cost of less power compared to a damage-boosting item.

**Lum Berry**: Quaquaval can be quite vulnerable to status, with burn and paralysis being especially painful for the Pokemon to deal with. Lum Berry gives a buffer to this way of dealing with Quaquaval.

**Assault Vest**: While Quaquaval has great options in terms of status moves with its set-up moves and utility moves such as Roost, Assault Vest can allow it to become a reasonable check to certain special attackers such as Chi-Yu and Volcarona. Quaquaval's large amount of attacking options allow it to easily run Assault Vest if needed.

**Rocky Helmet**: Water- and Fighting-type is a great natural STAB-combo that allows Quaquaval to naturally check popular threats such as Chien-Pao and Hisuian Samurott. Rocky Helmet punishes these physical attackers using their STAB moves.

**Weakness Policy**: In certain scenarios, Weakness Policy can be used as an alternative form of set-up to allow for more coverage moves. The item can also be used alongside Bulk Up's defense boost to very quickly get +3 Attack while taking reduced damage thanks to the aforementioned defense boost. (feels too niche but i wont force u to cut it)

Tera
========
While Quaquaval does not require Tera to be viable at all, it is a great option to further boost its offensive potential. Both of its STAB-typings in Water and Fighting make for great Tera types as many checks struggle to resist both types. Flying- and Ice-type are useful, boosting coverage moves such as Brave Bird and Triple Axel allowing Quaquaval a stronger option in dealing with defensive Grass-Type Pokemon like Amoonguss or Shaymin that would normally be fine switching in. Alternatively, gaining extra coverage can be extremely valuable, as Electric-type for example can make dealing with bulky Water-type Pokemon such as Primarina or Slowking much easier. Defensive Tera-Types such as Fairy- or Steel-type can also be used to give Quaquaval extra set-up opportunities on Pokemon it normally would not be able to set up on.

Draft Strategy
========
Due to its versatility, Quaquaval can easily fit on a lot of drafts. Since Quaquaval is not reliant on Tera, it pairs well with higher-tier Pokemon that might appreciate Tera more. However, if you plan to make Quaquaval your Tera captain, drafting higher-tier Pokemon that are restricted from using Tera is valuable. Another thing to keep in mind when drafting Quaquaval is that it is not limited to merely being an offensive tool. Moves like Rapid Spin allow it to safely remove hazards for partners such as Chi-Yu and Enamorus who would normally fear hazards.

**Hazard Control**: While Quaquaval has the potential to snowball offensively, creating optimal conditions for this is preferred. Entry hazards such as Spikes can break down would-be checks, to allow Quaquaval to push past them. A few examples of such partners are Garchomp, which together with Quaquaval make for a nice one-two punch, both in terms of hazard support as well as offense, or Meowscarada, which can also lure Fire-types that Quaquaval can set up on or punish.

**Special wallbreakers**: Quaquaval is a great physical attacker, however, certain walls could end up being too much for Quaquaval to get through. For walls that are simply too physically defensive, or that can boost their defense through moves such as Iron Defense, it is important to have strong special attacking options alongside Quaquaval so that you can properly pressure the opposing team. It is also important to note that Quaquaval can easily enable these other wall-breakers thanks to its access to Flip Turn and U-Turn. A few examples of such partners could be Darkrai, which can help Quaquaval in taking down physically defensive Psychic types, or Thundurus-Therian which is a great Pokemon to have for the bulky Water-types that would want to punish Quaquaval's Aqua Step.

**Screens support**: With offensive sets usually relying on the combination of Aqua Step and Moxie, screens support can be a great tool to further enable Quaquaval. Setting up with Swords Dance or Bulk Up becomes incredibly potent with the decreased damage, especially when combined with Roost for longevity. A few examples of such partners are Alolan Ninetales, which can also pressure Grass Types that Quaquaval struggles with, or Klefki which can also use entry hazards effectively.

**Knock-Off users**: With items such as Rocky Helmet or Red Card being fairly strong in limiting Quaquaval, Knock Off is a great tool to be able to limit your opponent's counter-play in this regard. While it does have access to the move itself, it is hard to fit every single time. A few examples of such partners are Iron Treads, which can also effectively set entry hazards for Quaquaval, or Tornadus-Therian which can also pivot on Steel-types to give Quaquaval more opportunities to attack or set up. (feels un needed)

Checks and Counters
========
**STAB resistances**: Quaquaval's limited coverage means that it will be largely relying on STAB moves such as Aqua Step, Close Combat, and Wave Crash to deal significant damage. This means that Pokemon that can resist both or even one of Quaquaval's types can effectively stop it from getting out of hand. Pokemon such as Latias, Azumarill, or Toxapex can all make the match-up much harder for Quaquaval.

**Status conditions**: Both burn and paralysis are great ways of dealing with Quaquaval, with burn limiting its Attack stat, thus making it harder to pick up KOs, and with paralysis limiting its Speed, thus making it harder to outspeed offensive threats after Aqua Step. Pokemon such as Zapdos, Rotom-Wash, and Gholdengo can be especially tough to handle, as they all also resist one of Quaquaval's STABs whilst being able to dish out status conditions in return.

**Physical walls**: Since Quaquaval is primarily a physical attacker, Pokemon with a high enough defense stat or access to defense-boosting moves such as Iron Defense or Acid Armor, can stop Quaquaval from winning the game. Pokemon like Skarmory or Iron Hands naturally will be able to take the hit and punish Quaquaval with Super Effective moves or even through means like Rocky Helmet.

**Faster Foes**: With its average base speed, Quaquaval lacks an immediate speed advantage over a lot of other offensive Pokemon. Because of this, it can be relatively easily outrun even after an Aqua Step by faster Choice Scarf users or Pokemon that have other ways to boost speed. Speed Booster Energy Iron Valiant and Iron Bundle as well as Choice Scarf Meowscarada and Enamorus can all outspeed Quaquaval and threaten a KO to revenge it in return.

 

[Luxanse]

qc 1/2

[overview]
**Draft order**: Late round 2 onwards

**Price range**: 15 14-16 points

**Overview**: Quaquaval can function on a team in a variety of ways. It can range from being a potent set-up threat due to the combination of Swords Dance or Bulk Up, Moxie, and Aqua Step, to being a solid utility Pokemon thanks to moves such as Knock Off, Roost, and Rapid Spin. Generally speaking, Quaquaval has a lot of potential in any given matchup thanks to its versatility. However, there are areas in which it does lack a bit. Its speed is somewhat middling, allowing faster Choice Scarf users to outspeed and threaten it at +1. Furthermore, its relatively limited coverage leaves it vulnerable to Pokemon that can take hits from its STABs.


[strategy comments]
Common Roles
========
**Setup Sweeper**: Due to the incredibly strong combination of Aqua Step and Moxie, Quaquaval can very easily snowball into a winning position. This set generally runs Fighting STAB and a combination of necessary coverage moves and a set-up move to allow the iconic duck to run away with the game.

**Utility**: Quaquaval's utility arsenal is quite large. With access to moves such as Knock Off, Flip Turn, Roost, and Rapid Spin, it can very reliably disrupt your opponent's gameplan by removing items or hazards, or create opportunities for yourself by gaining momentum through Flip Turn or U-Turn.

**Wallbreaker**: Access to strong STAB moves such as Close Combat and Wave Crash allow Quaquaval to effectively punch holes in your opponent's team. This allows a different strong set-up threat or a cleaner on your team to pick off the remains of whatever is left after Quaquaval has broken through the team. (i would just put wallbreaker first, then sweeper, then utility. order of most commonly used)

Common Moves
========
**Primary STAB moves**: Aqua Step, Wave Crash, Close Combat, Low Kick, Aqua Jet, Flip Turn

**Setup moves**: Swords Dance, Bulk Up

**Utility moves**: Rapid Spin, Roost, Encore, Taunt, U-Turn, Baton Pass

**Coverage**: Acrobatics, (niche) Brave Bird, Ice Spinner, Triple Axel, Knock Off

Niche Moves (add upper hand)
========
**Brick Break**: While generally Close Combat is the stronger and more consistent option in terms of STAB, Brick Break can be run as a measure against Reflect and/or Light Screen and Aurora Veil.

**Facade**: Quaquaval can be quite vulnerable to status from common checks such as Will-O-Wisp from Rotom-Wash. Facade can be used to mitigate this weakness somewhat.

**Fling + Big Nugget**: With Aqua Step and Close Combat as your main STAB moves on most set-up variants, Fling can be an option to deal with bulky Psychic- or Ghost-Type Pokemon

**Endure + Reversal**: Quaquaval can boost its speed quite easily, because of this Reversal sets can be tough to deal with in the right scenario, as most checks will only be prepared for Close Combat. (feels too niche, also just folds to priority unless u fit upperhand but lol)

Common Items
========
**Heavy-Duty Boots**: On offensive sets, Quaquaval generally wants to have as much health as possible so it won't get picked off by priority, Rocky Helmets, and other forms of damage it cannot avoid. For supportive sets, it commonly wants to function as a hazard remover due to its access to Rapid Spin. Especially being able to remove Spikes and Toxic Spikes without having to suffer from taking too much damage or being Poisoned is very valuable.

**Damage-boosting Items**: Quaquaval's limited coverage results in it mainly clicking its STABs in any given match-up. Because of this, the respective items to boost either of its STAB types are great options to allow it to push past certain Pokemon that would otherwise be able to switch in and threaten it out.

**Sitrus Berry**: In a similar fashion to Heavy-Duty Boots, Sitrus Berry gives Quaquaval added longevity without having to sacrifice a move slot for Roost when it can not afford to run it in a match-up. However, Roost + Sitrus Berry can also be very nice to give yourself extra leeway in checking tough offensive threats with this Pokemon. (would move to niche)

**Choice Band**: Choice Band is a great option for wallbreaking. Wave Crash + Close Combat is a very tough combination to deal with and alongside this, Moxie can further boost its wallbreaking potential.

Niche Items
========
**Protective Pads**: Quaquaval mainly wants to use physical contact moves, which opens the door for the opponent to use Rocky Helmet as a method of easily punishing Quaquaval. Protective Pads circumvents this issue entirely at the cost of less power compared to a damage-boosting item.

**Lum Berry**: Quaquaval can be quite vulnerable to status, with burn and paralysis being especially painful for the Pokemon to deal with. Lum Berry gives a buffer to this way of dealing with Quaquaval.

**Assault Vest**: While Quaquaval has great options in terms of status moves with its set-up moves and utility moves such as Roost, Assault Vest can allow it to become a reasonable check to certain special attackers such as Chi-Yu and Volcarona. Quaquaval's large amount of attacking options allow it to easily run Assault Vest if needed.

**Rocky Helmet**: Water- and Fighting-type is a great natural STAB-combo that allows Quaquaval to naturally check popular threats such as Chien-Pao and Hisuian Samurott. Rocky Helmet punishes these physical attackers using their STAB moves.

**Weakness Policy**: In certain scenarios, Weakness Policy can be used as an alternative form of set-up to allow for more coverage moves. The item can also be used alongside Bulk Up's defense boost to very quickly get +3 Attack while taking reduced damage thanks to the aforementioned defense boost. (feels too niche but i wont force u to cut it)

Tera
========
While Quaquaval does not require Tera to be viable at all, it is a great option to further boost its offensive potential. Both of its STAB-typings in Water and Fighting make for great Tera types as many checks struggle to resist both types. Flying- and Ice-type are useful, boosting coverage moves such as Brave Bird and Triple Axel allowing Quaquaval a stronger option in dealing with defensive Grass-Type Pokemon like Amoonguss or Shaymin that would normally be fine switching in. Alternatively, gaining extra coverage can be extremely valuable, as Electric-type for example can make dealing with bulky Water-type Pokemon such as Primarina or Slowking much easier. Defensive Tera-Types such as Fairy- or Steel-type can also be used to give Quaquaval extra set-up opportunities on Pokemon it normally would not be able to set up on.

Draft Strategy
========
Due to its versatility, Quaquaval can easily fit on a lot of drafts. Since Quaquaval is not reliant on Tera, it pairs well with higher-tier Pokemon that might appreciate Tera more. However, if you plan to make Quaquaval your Tera captain, drafting higher-tier Pokemon that are restricted from using Tera is valuable. Another thing to keep in mind when drafting Quaquaval is that it is not limited to merely being an offensive tool. Moves like Rapid Spin allow it to safely remove hazards for partners such as Chi-Yu and Enamorus who would normally fear hazards.

**Hazard Control**: While Quaquaval has the potential to snowball offensively, creating optimal conditions for this is preferred. Entry hazards such as Spikes can break down would-be checks, to allow Quaquaval to push past them. A few examples of such partners are Garchomp, which together with Quaquaval make for a nice one-two punch, both in terms of hazard support as well as offense, or Meowscarada, which can also lure Fire-types that Quaquaval can set up on or punish.

**Special wallbreakers**: Quaquaval is a great physical attacker, however, certain walls could end up being too much for Quaquaval to get through. For walls that are simply too physically defensive, or that can boost their defense through moves such as Iron Defense, it is important to have strong special attacking options alongside Quaquaval so that you can properly pressure the opposing team. It is also important to note that Quaquaval can easily enable these other wall-breakers thanks to its access to Flip Turn and U-Turn. A few examples of such partners could be Darkrai, which can help Quaquaval in taking down physically defensive Psychic types, or Thundurus-Therian which is a great Pokemon to have for the bulky Water-types that would want to punish Quaquaval's Aqua Step.

**Screens support**: With offensive sets usually relying on the combination of Aqua Step and Moxie, screens support can be a great tool to further enable Quaquaval. Setting up with Swords Dance or Bulk Up becomes incredibly potent with the decreased damage, especially when combined with Roost for longevity. A few examples of such partners are Alolan Ninetales, which can also pressure Grass Types that Quaquaval struggles with, or Klefki which can also use entry hazards effectively.

**Knock-Off users**: With items such as Rocky Helmet or Red Card being fairly strong in limiting Quaquaval, Knock Off is a great tool to be able to limit your opponent's counter-play in this regard. While it does have access to the move itself, it is hard to fit every single time. A few examples of such partners are Iron Treads, which can also effectively set entry hazards for Quaquaval, or Tornadus-Therian which can also pivot on Steel-types to give Quaquaval more opportunities to attack or set up. (feels un needed)

Checks and Counters
========
**STAB resistances**: Quaquaval's limited coverage means that it will be largely relying on STAB moves such as Aqua Step, Close Combat, and Wave Crash to deal significant damage. This means that Pokemon that can resist both or even one of Quaquaval's types can effectively stop it from getting out of hand. Pokemon such as Latias, Azumarill, or Toxapex can all make the match-up much harder for Quaquaval.

**Status conditions**: Both burn and paralysis are great ways of dealing with Quaquaval, with burn limiting its Attack stat, thus making it harder to pick up KOs, and with paralysis limiting its Speed, thus making it harder to outspeed offensive threats after Aqua Step. Pokemon such as Zapdos, Rotom-Wash, and Gholdengo can be especially tough to handle, as they all also resist one of Quaquaval's STABs whilst being able to dish out status conditions in return.

**Physical walls**: Since Quaquaval is primarily a physical attacker, Pokemon with a high enough defense stat or access to defense-boosting moves such as Iron Defense or Acid Armor, can stop Quaquaval from winning the game. Pokemon like Skarmory or Iron Hands naturally will be able to take the hit and punish Quaquaval with Super Effective moves or even through means like Rocky Helmet.

**Faster Foes**: With its average base speed, Quaquaval lacks an immediate speed advantage over a lot of other offensive Pokemon. Because of this, it can be relatively easily outrun even after an Aqua Step by faster Choice Scarf users or Pokemon that have other ways to boost speed. Speed Booster Energy Iron Valiant and Iron Bundle as well as Choice Scarf Meowscarada and Enamorus can all outspeed Quaquaval and threaten a KO to revenge it in return.

I've implemented all of the changes from QC1, bar the Weakness Policy one since you mentioned it was fine to keep.

 

[vmnunes]

QC 2

[overview]
**Draft order**: Late round 2 onwards

**Price range**: 14-16 points

**Overview**: Quaquaval can function on a team in a variety of ways. It can range from being a potent set-up threat due to the combination of Swords Dance or Bulk Up, Moxie, and Aqua Step, to being a solid utility Pokemon thanks to moves such as Knock Off, Roost, and Rapid Spin. Generally speaking, Quaquaval has a lot of potential in any given matchup thanks to its versatility. However, there are areas in which it does lack a bit. Its speed is somewhat middling, allowing faster Choice Scarf users to outspeed and threaten it at +1. Furthermore, its relatively limited coverage leaves it vulnerable to Pokemon that can take hits from its STABs.


[strategy comments]
Common Roles
========
**Wallbreaker**: Access to strong STAB moves such as Close Combat and Wave Crash allow Quaquaval to effectively punch holes in your opponent's team. This allows a different strong set-up threat or a cleaner on your team to pick off the remains of whatever is left after Quaquaval has broken through the team.

**Setup Sweeper**: Due to the incredibly strong combination of Aqua Step and Moxie, Quaquaval can very easily snowball into a winning position. This set generally runs Fighting STAB and a combination of necessary coverage moves and a set-up move to allow the iconic duck to run away with the game.

**Utility**: Quaquaval's utility arsenal is quite large. With access to moves such as Knock Off, Flip Turn, Roost, and Rapid Spin, it can very reliably disrupt your opponent's gameplan by removing items or hazards, or create opportunities for yourself by gaining momentum through Flip Turn or U-Turn.

Common Moves
========
**Primary STAB moves**: Aqua Step, Wave Crash, Close Combat, Low Kick, Aqua Jet, Flip Turn

**Setup moves**: Swords Dance, Bulk Up

**Utility moves**: Rapid Spin, Roost, Encore, Taunt, U-Turn, Baton Pass

**Coverage**: Acrobatics (if you're listing it as a niche move, it should not be here), Brave Bird, Ice Spinner, Triple Axel, Knock Off

Niche Moves
========
**Brick Break**: While generally Close Combat is the stronger and more consistent option in terms of STAB, Brick Break can be run as a measure against Reflect and/or Light Screen and Aurora Veil.

**Facade**: Quaquaval can be quite vulnerable to status from common checks such as Will-O-Wisp from Rotom-Wash. Facade can be used to mitigate this weakness somewhat.

**Acrobatics**: This move can be a solid alternative to Brave Bird on sets where Quaquaval wants to use a consumable item like a berry for example. While not quite as strong as Brave Bird, Acrobatics does not have recoil.

**Upper Hand**: Opposing priority moves are something to be wary of when using Quaquaval, since it can easily boost its speed with Aqua Step. Upper Hand allows you to deny this priority while still doing damage to your opponent.

**Fling + Big Nugget (would put the big nugget mention in the comment itself)**: With Aqua Step and Close Combat as your main STAB moves on most set-up variants, Fling can be an option to deal with bulky Psychic- or Ghost-Type Pokemon

Common Items
========
**Heavy-Duty Boots**: On offensive sets, Quaquaval generally wants to have as much health as possible so it won't get picked off by priority, Rocky Helmets, and other forms of damage it cannot avoid. For supportive sets, it commonly wants to function as a hazard remover due to its access to Rapid Spin. Especially being able to remove Spikes and Toxic Spikes without having to suffer from taking too much damage or being Poisoned is very valuable.

**Damage-boosting Items**: Quaquaval's limited coverage results in it mainly clicking its STABs in any given match-up. Because of this, the respective items to boost either of its STAB types are great options to allow it to push past certain Pokemon that would otherwise be able to switch in and threaten it out.

**Choice Band**: Choice Band is a great option for wallbreaking. Wave Crash + Close Combat is a very tough combination to deal with and alongside this, Moxie can further boost its wallbreaking potential.

Niche Items
========
**Protective Pads**: Quaquaval mainly wants to use physical contact moves, which opens the door for the opponent to use Rocky Helmet as a method of easily punishing Quaquaval. Protective Pads circumvents this issue entirely at the cost of less power compared to a damage-boosting item. (I would personally move this to common items, but I think it's fine either way)

**Sitrus Berry**: In a similar fashion to Heavy-Duty Boots, Sitrus Berry gives Quaquaval added longevity without having to sacrifice a move slot for Roost when it can not afford to run it in a match-up. However, Roost + Sitrus Berry can also be very nice to give yourself extra leeway in checking tough offensive threats with this Pokemon.

**Lum Berry**: Quaquaval can be quite vulnerable to status, with burn and paralysis being especially painful for the Pokemon to deal with. Lum Berry gives a buffer to this way of dealing with Quaquaval.

**Assault Vest**: While Quaquaval has great options in terms of status moves with its set-up moves and utility moves such as Roost, Assault Vest can allow it to become a reasonable check to certain special attackers such as Chi-Yu and Volcarona. Quaquaval's large amount of attacking options allow it to easily run Assault Vest if needed.

**Rocky Helmet**: Water- and Fighting-type is a great natural STAB-combo has a good set of resistances (I'd change this to be more focused on the defensive typing rather than the offensive, as that's what allows Quaq to check hamurott / chien pao) that allows Quaquaval to naturally check popular threats such as Chien-Pao and Hisuian Samurott (could potentially add a mention to Kingambit as well, since you do resist both of its stabs and sucker punch, while naturally outspeeding). Rocky Helmet punishes these physical attackers using their STAB moves.

**Weakness Policy**: In certain scenarios, Weakness Policy can be used as an alternative form of set-up to allow for more coverage moves. The item can also be used alongside Bulk Up's defense boost to very quickly get +3 Attack while taking reduced damage thanks to the aforementioned defense boost.

Tera
========
While Quaquaval does not require Tera to be viable at all, it is a great option to further boost its offensive potential. Both of its STAB-typings in Water and Fighting make for great Tera types as many checks struggle to resist both types. Flying- and Ice-type are useful, boosting coverage moves such as Brave Bird and Triple Axel allowing Quaquaval a stronger option in dealing with defensive Grass-Type Pokemon like Amoonguss or Shaymin that would normally be fine switching in. Alternatively, gaining extra coverage can be extremely valuable, as Electric-type for example can make dealing with bulky Water-type Pokemon such as Primarina or Slowking much easier. Defensive Tera-Types such as Fairy- or Steel-type can also be used to give Quaquaval extra set-up opportunities on Pokemon it normally would not be able to set up on.

Draft Strategy
========
Due to its versatility, Quaquaval can easily fit on a lot of drafts. Since Quaquaval is not reliant on Tera, it pairs well with higher-tier Pokemon that might appreciate Tera more. However, if you plan to make Quaquaval your Tera captain, drafting higher-tier Pokemon that are restricted from using Tera is valuable. Another thing to keep in mind when drafting Quaquaval is that it is not limited to merely being an offensive tool. Moves like Rapid Spin allow it to safely remove hazards for partners such as Chi-Yu and Enamorus who would normally fear hazards.

**Hazard Control**: While Quaquaval has the potential to snowball offensively, creating optimal conditions for this is preferred. Entry hazards such as Spikes can break down would-be checks, to allow Quaquaval to push past them. A few examples of such partners are Garchomp, which together with Quaquaval make for a nice one-two punch, both in terms of hazard support as well as offense, or Meowscarada, which can also lure Fire-types that Quaquaval can set up on or punish.

**Special wallbreakers**: Quaquaval is a great physical attacker, however, certain walls could end up being too much for Quaquaval to get through. For walls that are simply too physically defensive, or that can boost their defense through moves such as Iron Defense, it is important to have strong special attacking options alongside Quaquaval so that you can properly pressure the opposing team. It is also important to note that Quaquaval can easily enable these other wall-breakers thanks to its access to Flip Turn and U-Turn. A few examples of such partners could be Darkrai, which can help Quaquaval in taking down physically defensive Psychic types, or Thundurus-Therian which is a great Pokemon to have for the bulky Water-types that would want to punish Quaquaval's Aqua Step.

**Screens support**: With offensive sets usually relying on the combination of Aqua Step and Moxie, screens support can be a great tool to further enable Quaquaval. Setting up with Swords Dance or Bulk Up becomes incredibly potent with the decreased damage, especially when combined with Roost for longevity. A few examples of such partners are Alolan Ninetales, which can also pressure Grass Types that Quaquaval struggles with, or Klefki which can also use entry hazards effectively.

Checks and Counters
========
**STAB resistances**: Quaquaval's limited coverage means that it will be largely relying on STAB moves such as Aqua Step, Close Combat, and Wave Crash to deal significant damage. This means that Pokemon that can resist both or even one of Quaquaval's types can effectively stop it from getting out of hand. Pokemon such as Latias, Azumarill, or Toxapex can all make the match-up much harder for Quaquaval.

**Status conditions**: Both burn and paralysis are great ways of dealing with Quaquaval, with burn limiting its Attack stat, thus making it harder to pick up KOs, and with paralysis limiting its Speed, thus making it harder to outspeed offensive threats after Aqua Step. Pokemon such as Zapdos, Rotom-Wash, and Gholdengo can be especially tough to handle, as they all also resist one of Quaquaval's STABs whilst being able to dish out status conditions in return.

**Physical walls**: Since Quaquaval is primarily a physical attacker, Pokemon with a high enough defense stat or access to defense-boosting moves such as Iron Defense or Acid Armor, can stop Quaquaval from winning the game. Pokemon like Skarmory or Iron Hands naturally will be able to take the hit and punish Quaquaval with Super Effective moves or even through means like Rocky Helmet.

**Faster Foes**: With its average base speed, Quaquaval lacks an immediate speed advantage over a lot of other offensive Pokemon. Because of this, it can be relatively easily outrun even after an Aqua Step by faster Choice Scarf users or Pokemon that have other ways to boost speed. Speed Booster Energy Iron Valiant and Iron Bundle as well as Choice Scarf Meowscarada and Enamorus can all outspeed Quaquaval and threaten a KO to revenge it in return.

[credits]
Written by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/luxanse.630002/
Quality checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/hacker.387847/
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/vmnunes.613460/

Grammar checked by:

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QC 2/2

 

[Luxanse]

QC 2

[overview]
**Draft order**: Late round 2 onwards

**Price range**: 14-16 points

**Overview**: Quaquaval can function on a team in a variety of ways. It can range from being a potent set-up threat due to the combination of Swords Dance or Bulk Up, Moxie, and Aqua Step, to being a solid utility Pokemon thanks to moves such as Knock Off, Roost, and Rapid Spin. Generally speaking, Quaquaval has a lot of potential in any given matchup thanks to its versatility. However, there are areas in which it does lack a bit. Its speed is somewhat middling, allowing faster Choice Scarf users to outspeed and threaten it at +1. Furthermore, its relatively limited coverage leaves it vulnerable to Pokemon that can take hits from its STABs.


[strategy comments]
Common Roles
========
**Wallbreaker**: Access to strong STAB moves such as Close Combat and Wave Crash allow Quaquaval to effectively punch holes in your opponent's team. This allows a different strong set-up threat or a cleaner on your team to pick off the remains of whatever is left after Quaquaval has broken through the team.

**Setup Sweeper**: Due to the incredibly strong combination of Aqua Step and Moxie, Quaquaval can very easily snowball into a winning position. This set generally runs Fighting STAB and a combination of necessary coverage moves and a set-up move to allow the iconic duck to run away with the game.

**Utility**: Quaquaval's utility arsenal is quite large. With access to moves such as Knock Off, Flip Turn, Roost, and Rapid Spin, it can very reliably disrupt your opponent's gameplan by removing items or hazards, or create opportunities for yourself by gaining momentum through Flip Turn or U-Turn.

Common Moves
========
**Primary STAB moves**: Aqua Step, Wave Crash, Close Combat, Low Kick, Aqua Jet, Flip Turn

**Setup moves**: Swords Dance, Bulk Up

**Utility moves**: Rapid Spin, Roost, Encore, Taunt, U-Turn, Baton Pass

**Coverage**: Acrobatics (if you're listing it as a niche move, it should not be here), Brave Bird, Ice Spinner, Triple Axel, Knock Off

Niche Moves
========
**Brick Break**: While generally Close Combat is the stronger and more consistent option in terms of STAB, Brick Break can be run as a measure against Reflect and/or Light Screen and Aurora Veil.

**Facade**: Quaquaval can be quite vulnerable to status from common checks such as Will-O-Wisp from Rotom-Wash. Facade can be used to mitigate this weakness somewhat.

**Acrobatics**: This move can be a solid alternative to Brave Bird on sets where Quaquaval wants to use a consumable item like a berry for example. While not quite as strong as Brave Bird, Acrobatics does not have recoil.

**Upper Hand**: Opposing priority moves are something to be wary of when using Quaquaval, since it can easily boost its speed with Aqua Step. Upper Hand allows you to deny this priority while still doing damage to your opponent.

**Fling + Big Nugget (would put the big nugget mention in the comment itself)**: With Aqua Step and Close Combat as your main STAB moves on most set-up variants, Fling can be an option to deal with bulky Psychic- or Ghost-Type Pokemon

Common Items
========
**Heavy-Duty Boots**: On offensive sets, Quaquaval generally wants to have as much health as possible so it won't get picked off by priority, Rocky Helmets, and other forms of damage it cannot avoid. For supportive sets, it commonly wants to function as a hazard remover due to its access to Rapid Spin. Especially being able to remove Spikes and Toxic Spikes without having to suffer from taking too much damage or being Poisoned is very valuable.

**Damage-boosting Items**: Quaquaval's limited coverage results in it mainly clicking its STABs in any given match-up. Because of this, the respective items to boost either of its STAB types are great options to allow it to push past certain Pokemon that would otherwise be able to switch in and threaten it out.

**Choice Band**: Choice Band is a great option for wallbreaking. Wave Crash + Close Combat is a very tough combination to deal with and alongside this, Moxie can further boost its wallbreaking potential.

Niche Items
========
**Protective Pads**: Quaquaval mainly wants to use physical contact moves, which opens the door for the opponent to use Rocky Helmet as a method of easily punishing Quaquaval. Protective Pads circumvents this issue entirely at the cost of less power compared to a damage-boosting item. (I would personally move this to common items, but I think it's fine either way)

**Sitrus Berry**: In a similar fashion to Heavy-Duty Boots, Sitrus Berry gives Quaquaval added longevity without having to sacrifice a move slot for Roost when it can not afford to run it in a match-up. However, Roost + Sitrus Berry can also be very nice to give yourself extra leeway in checking tough offensive threats with this Pokemon.

**Lum Berry**: Quaquaval can be quite vulnerable to status, with burn and paralysis being especially painful for the Pokemon to deal with. Lum Berry gives a buffer to this way of dealing with Quaquaval.

**Assault Vest**: While Quaquaval has great options in terms of status moves with its set-up moves and utility moves such as Roost, Assault Vest can allow it to become a reasonable check to certain special attackers such as Chi-Yu and Volcarona. Quaquaval's large amount of attacking options allow it to easily run Assault Vest if needed.

**Rocky Helmet**: Water- and Fighting-type is a great natural STAB-combo has a good set of resistances (I'd change this to be more focused on the defensive typing rather than the offensive, as that's what allows Quaq to check hamurott / chien pao) that allows Quaquaval to naturally check popular threats such as Chien-Pao and Hisuian Samurott (could potentially add a mention to Kingambit as well, since you do resist both of its stabs and sucker punch, while naturally outspeeding). Rocky Helmet punishes these physical attackers using their STAB moves.

**Weakness Policy**: In certain scenarios, Weakness Policy can be used as an alternative form of set-up to allow for more coverage moves. The item can also be used alongside Bulk Up's defense boost to very quickly get +3 Attack while taking reduced damage thanks to the aforementioned defense boost.

Tera
========
While Quaquaval does not require Tera to be viable at all, it is a great option to further boost its offensive potential. Both of its STAB-typings in Water and Fighting make for great Tera types as many checks struggle to resist both types. Flying- and Ice-type are useful, boosting coverage moves such as Brave Bird and Triple Axel allowing Quaquaval a stronger option in dealing with defensive Grass-Type Pokemon like Amoonguss or Shaymin that would normally be fine switching in. Alternatively, gaining extra coverage can be extremely valuable, as Electric-type for example can make dealing with bulky Water-type Pokemon such as Primarina or Slowking much easier. Defensive Tera-Types such as Fairy- or Steel-type can also be used to give Quaquaval extra set-up opportunities on Pokemon it normally would not be able to set up on.

Draft Strategy
========
Due to its versatility, Quaquaval can easily fit on a lot of drafts. Since Quaquaval is not reliant on Tera, it pairs well with higher-tier Pokemon that might appreciate Tera more. However, if you plan to make Quaquaval your Tera captain, drafting higher-tier Pokemon that are restricted from using Tera is valuable. Another thing to keep in mind when drafting Quaquaval is that it is not limited to merely being an offensive tool. Moves like Rapid Spin allow it to safely remove hazards for partners such as Chi-Yu and Enamorus who would normally fear hazards.

**Hazard Control**: While Quaquaval has the potential to snowball offensively, creating optimal conditions for this is preferred. Entry hazards such as Spikes can break down would-be checks, to allow Quaquaval to push past them. A few examples of such partners are Garchomp, which together with Quaquaval make for a nice one-two punch, both in terms of hazard support as well as offense, or Meowscarada, which can also lure Fire-types that Quaquaval can set up on or punish.

**Special wallbreakers**: Quaquaval is a great physical attacker, however, certain walls could end up being too much for Quaquaval to get through. For walls that are simply too physically defensive, or that can boost their defense through moves such as Iron Defense, it is important to have strong special attacking options alongside Quaquaval so that you can properly pressure the opposing team. It is also important to note that Quaquaval can easily enable these other wall-breakers thanks to its access to Flip Turn and U-Turn. A few examples of such partners could be Darkrai, which can help Quaquaval in taking down physically defensive Psychic types, or Thundurus-Therian which is a great Pokemon to have for the bulky Water-types that would want to punish Quaquaval's Aqua Step.

**Screens support**: With offensive sets usually relying on the combination of Aqua Step and Moxie, screens support can be a great tool to further enable Quaquaval. Setting up with Swords Dance or Bulk Up becomes incredibly potent with the decreased damage, especially when combined with Roost for longevity. A few examples of such partners are Alolan Ninetales, which can also pressure Grass Types that Quaquaval struggles with, or Klefki which can also use entry hazards effectively.

Checks and Counters
========
**STAB resistances**: Quaquaval's limited coverage means that it will be largely relying on STAB moves such as Aqua Step, Close Combat, and Wave Crash to deal significant damage. This means that Pokemon that can resist both or even one of Quaquaval's types can effectively stop it from getting out of hand. Pokemon such as Latias, Azumarill, or Toxapex can all make the match-up much harder for Quaquaval.

**Status conditions**: Both burn and paralysis are great ways of dealing with Quaquaval, with burn limiting its Attack stat, thus making it harder to pick up KOs, and with paralysis limiting its Speed, thus making it harder to outspeed offensive threats after Aqua Step. Pokemon such as Zapdos, Rotom-Wash, and Gholdengo can be especially tough to handle, as they all also resist one of Quaquaval's STABs whilst being able to dish out status conditions in return.

**Physical walls**: Since Quaquaval is primarily a physical attacker, Pokemon with a high enough defense stat or access to defense-boosting moves such as Iron Defense or Acid Armor, can stop Quaquaval from winning the game. Pokemon like Skarmory or Iron Hands naturally will be able to take the hit and punish Quaquaval with Super Effective moves or even through means like Rocky Helmet.

**Faster Foes**: With its average base speed, Quaquaval lacks an immediate speed advantage over a lot of other offensive Pokemon. Because of this, it can be relatively easily outrun even after an Aqua Step by faster Choice Scarf users or Pokemon that have other ways to boost speed. Speed Booster Energy Iron Valiant and Iron Bundle as well as Choice Scarf Meowscarada and Enamorus can all outspeed Quaquaval and threaten a KO to revenge it in return.

[credits]
Written by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/luxanse.630002/
Quality checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/hacker.387847/
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/vmnunes.613460/

Grammar checked by:

Add Remove Comments

QC 2/2

Changes have been implemented, ready for GP

 

[olivia]

Luxanse remember to tag the GP team (GP Team)

also put my credit back

 

[SolarBeam]

Hi, here's a GP amcheck. Implement whatever you feel like.

ducke

blue = add
red = remove
(orange) = comment

[overview]
**Draft order**: Late round 2 onwards

**Price range**: 14-16 points

**Overview**: Quaquaval can function on a team in a variety of ways. It (fluff) can range from being a potent set-up threat setup sweeper due to the combination of Swords Dance or Bulk Up, Moxie, and Aqua Step (RC) to being a solid utility Pokemon thanks to moves such as Knock Off, Roost, and Rapid Spin. Generally speaking, Quaquaval has a lot of potential in any given matchup thanks to its versatility. However, there are areas in which it does lack a bit. Its (fluff) its speed Speed is somewhat middling, allowing faster Choice Scarf users to outspeed and threaten it at +1. Furthermore, its relatively limited coverage leaves it vulnerable to Pokemon that can take hits from its STABs STAB moves.


[strategy comments]
Common Roles
========
**Wallbreaker**: Access to strong STAB moves such as Close Combat and Wave Crash allow allows Quaquaval to effectively punch holes in your opponent's team. This allows a different strong set-up threat setup sweeper (different doesn't apply here bc quack isn't acting as a setup sweeper; repeating strong twice in a row as an adjective so can use a synonym instead if you want) or a cleaner on your team to pick off the remains of whatever is left after Quaquaval has broken through the team.

**Setup Sweeper**: Due to the incredibly strong combination of Aqua Step and Moxie, Quaquaval can very easily snowball into a winning position. This set generally runs Fighting-type STAB moves, (AC) and a combination of necessary coverage moves, (AC) and a set-up setup move to allow the iconic duck to run away with the game.

**Utility**: Quaquaval's utility arsenal is quite large. With access to moves such as Knock Off, Flip Turn, Roost, and Rapid Spin, it can very reliably disrupt your opponent's gameplan by removing items or entry hazards, or it can create opportunities for yourself you by gaining momentum through Flip Turn or U-Turn U-turn.

Common Moves
========
**Primary STAB moves**: Aqua Step, Wave Crash, Close Combat, Low Kick, Aqua Jet, Flip Turn

**Setup moves**: Swords Dance, Bulk Up

**Utility moves**: Rapid Spin, Roost, Encore, Taunt, U-Turn U-turn, Baton Pass

**Coverage**: Brave Bird, Ice Spinner, Triple Axel, Knock Off

Niche Moves
========
**Brick Break**: While generally Close Combat is the stronger and more consistent option in terms of STAB moves, Brick Break can be run as a measure against Reflect and/or Light Screen and Aurora Veil Reflect, Light Screen, and Aurora Veil.

**Facade**: Quaquaval can be quite vulnerable to status from common checks such as Will-O-Wisp from Rotom-Wash Rotom-W. Facade can be used to mitigate this weakness somewhat.

**Acrobatics**: This move can be a solid alternative to Brave Bird on sets where Quaquaval wants to use a consumable item like a berry for example Berry. While not quite as strong as Brave Bird, Acrobatics does not have recoil.

**Upper Hand**: Opposing priority moves are something to be wary of when using Quaquaval, since it can easily boost its speed Speed with Aqua Step. Upper Hand allows you Quaquaval to deny this these priority moves while still doing damage to your opponent its foe.

**Fling**: With Aqua Step and Close Combat as your Quaquaval's main STAB moves on most set-up setup variants, Fling can be an option to deal with bulky Psychic- or Ghost-Type Ghost-type Pokemon. When holding a Big Nugget, (AC) you it can get a maximum base power Base Power of 130, which allows it to be a powerful alternative to Knock Off.

Common Items
========
**Heavy-Duty Boots**: On offensive sets, Quaquaval generally wants to have as much health as possible so it won't get picked off by priority moves, Rocky Helmets Helmet, and other forms of damage it cannot avoid. For supportive sets, it commonly wants to function as a an entry hazard remover due to its access to Rapid Spin. Especially being Being able to remove Spikes and Toxic Spikes without having to suffer from taking too much damage or being Poisoned poisoned is very especially valuable (just moving especially to a place where it works to maintain voice).

**Damage-boosting Damage-Boosting Items**: Quaquaval's limited coverage results in it mainly clicking using its STABs STAB moves in any given match-up matchup. Because of this, the respective items to boost either of its STAB types Mystic Water and Black Belt (why not just say the items?) are great options to allow it to push past certain Pokemon that would otherwise be able to switch in and threaten it out.

**Choice Band**: Choice Band is a great option for wallbreaking. Wave Crash + Close Combat is a very tough combination to deal with, (AC) and alongside this, Moxie can further boost its wallbreaking potential.

**Protective Pads**: Quaquaval mainly wants to use physical contact moves, which opens the door for the opponent to use Rocky Helmet as a method of easily punishing Quaquaval. Protective Pads circumvents this issue entirely at the cost of less power compared to a damage-boosting item.

Niche Items
========
**Sitrus Berry**: In a similar fashion to Heavy-Duty Boots, Sitrus Berry gives Quaquaval added longevity without having to sacrifice a move slot for Roost when it can not afford to run it in a match-up matchup. However, Roost + Sitrus Berry can also be very nice to give yourself Quaquaval extra leeway in checking tough offensive threats with this Pokemon.

**Lum Berry**: Quaquaval can be quite vulnerable to status, with burn and paralysis being especially painful for the Pokemon it to deal with. Lum Berry gives a buffer to this way of dealing with Quaquaval (this sentence is extremely opaque- rephrase to something clearer like "Lum Berry can help with this by curing Quaquaval's status once.").

**Assault Vest**: While Quaquaval has great options in terms of status moves status move options with its set-up setup moves and utility moves such as Roost, Assault Vest can allow it to become a reasonable check to certain special attackers such as Chi-Yu and Volcarona. Quaquaval's large amount of attacking options allow it to easily run Assault Vest if needed.

**Rocky Helmet**: Water- and Fighting-type Water / Fighting type has a good set of resistances that allow allows Quaquaval to naturally check popular threats such as Weavile, Kingambit, (AC) and Hisuian Samurott. Rocky Helmet punishes these physical attackers using when they use their STAB moves (clarity).

**Weakness Policy**: In certain scenarios, Weakness Policy can be used as an alternative form of set-up setup to allow for more coverage moves. The item It can also be used alongside Bulk Up's defense Defense boost to very quickly get +3 Attack while taking reduced damage thanks to the aforementioned defense boost (no need to repeat this).

Tera
========
While Quaquaval does not require Tera to be viable at all, it is a great option to further boost its offensive potential. Both of its STAB-typings STAB types in Water and Fighting make for great Tera types, (AC) as many checks struggle to resist both types. Flying- and Ice-type Tera Flying and Ice are useful, boosting coverage moves such as Brave Bird and Triple Axel and allowing Quaquaval a stronger option in dealing with defensive Grass-Type Grass-type Pokemon like Amoonguss or and Shaymin that would normally be fine switching in. Alternatively, gaining extra coverage can be extremely valuable; (replaced comma with semicolon) as Electric-type for example for example, Tera Electric can make dealing with bulky Water-type Pokemon such as Primarina or and Slowking much easier. Defensive Tera-Types Tera types such as Fairy- or Steel-type Fairy and Steel can also be used to give Quaquaval extra set-up setup opportunities on Pokemon it normally would not be able to set up on.

Draft Strategy
========
Due to its versatility, Quaquaval can easily fit on a lot of drafts. Since Quaquaval is not reliant on Tera, it pairs well with higher-tier Pokemon that might appreciate Tera more. However, if you plan to make Quaquaval your Tera captain Captain, drafting higher-tier Pokemon that are restricted from using Tera is valuable. Another thing to keep in mind when drafting Quaquaval is that it is not limited to merely being an offensive tool. Moves like Rapid Spin allow it to safely remove entry hazards for partners such as Chi-Yu and Enamorus who that would normally fear hazards them (repetition).

**Entry Hazard Control**: While Quaquaval has the potential to snowball offensively, creating optimal conditions for this is preferred. Entry hazards such as Spikes can break down would-be checks (RC) to allow Quaquaval to push past them. A few examples of such hazard-setting (you don't talk about partners before this, just hazards, so such is inapplicable) partners are Garchomp, which together with Quaquaval make makes for a nice one-two punch (RC) both (redundant with as well as) in terms of hazard support as well as offense, or Meowscarada, which can also lure Fire-types that Quaquaval can set up on or punish.

**Special wallbreakers Wallbreakers**: Quaquaval is a great physical attacker; (replaced comma with semicolon) however, certain walls could can end up being too much for Quaquaval to get through. For walls that are simply too physically defensive, or that can boost their defense Defense through moves such as Iron Defense, it is important to have strong special attacking options alongside Quaquaval so that you can properly pressure the opposing team. It is also important to note that Quaquaval can easily enable these other wall-breakers wallbreakers thanks to its access to Flip Turn and U-Turn U-turn. A few examples of such partners could be are Darkrai, which can help Quaquaval in taking down physically defensive Psychic-types (AH), or Thundurus-Therian Thundurus-T, (AC) which is a great Pokemon to have for the bulky Water-types that would want to punish Quaquaval's Aqua Step.

**Screens support Dual Screens Support**: With offensive sets usually relying on the combination of Aqua Step and Moxie, dual screens support can be a great tool to further enable Quaquaval. Setting up with Swords Dance or Bulk Up becomes incredibly potent with the decreased damage, especially when combined with Roost for longevity. A few examples of such partners that can set dual screens are Alolan Ninetales, which can also pressure Grass Types Grass-types that Quaquaval struggles with, or Klefki, (AC) which can also use set entry hazards effectively.

Checks and Counters
========
**STAB resistances Water- and Fighting-type Resistances**: Quaquaval's limited coverage means that it will be largely relying on STAB moves such as Aqua Step, Close Combat, and Wave Crash to deal significant damage. This means that Pokemon that can resist both or even one of Quaquaval's STAB types can effectively stop it from getting out of hand. Pokemon such as Latias, Azumarill, or and Toxapex can all make the match-up matchup much harder for Quaquaval.

**Status conditions Conditions**: Both burn and paralysis are great ways of dealing with Quaquaval, with burn limiting its Attack stat, thus making it harder to pick up KOs, and with paralysis limiting its Speed, thus making it harder to outspeed offensive threats after Aqua Step. Pokemon such as Zapdos, Rotom-Wash Rotom-W, and Gholdengo can be especially tough to handle, as they all also resist one of Quaquaval's STABs whilst STAB types while being able to dish out status conditions in return.

**Physical walls Walls**: Since Quaquaval is primarily a physical attacker, Pokemon with a high enough defense Defense stat or access to defense-boosting Defense-boosting moves such as Iron Defense or and Acid Armor (RC) can stop Quaquaval from winning the game. Pokemon like Skarmory or and Iron Hands naturally will be able to take the hit and punish Quaquaval with Super Effective super effective moves or even through means like Rocky Helmet.

**Faster Foes**: With its average base speed Speed, Quaquaval lacks an immediate speed Speed advantage over a lot of other offensive Pokemon. Because of this, it can be relatively easily outrun even after an Aqua Step by faster Choice Scarf users or Pokemon that have other ways to boost speed Speed. Speed Booster Energy Iron Valiant and Iron Bundle as well as Choice Scarf Meowscarada and Enamorus can all outspeed Quaquaval and threaten a KO to revenge kill it in return.

[credits]
Written by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/luxanse.630002/
Quality checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/olivia.620359/
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/hacker.387847/
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/vmnunes.613460/
Grammar checked by:

 

[ken]

1/1 GP Team done
i'm darker red/blue, comments in purple
added both credits

follow the directions from the video in this post to implement

ducke

blue = add
red = remove
(orange) = comment

[overview]
**Draft order**: Late round 2 onwards

**Price range**: 14-16 points

**Overview**: Quaquaval can function on a team in a variety of ways. It (fluff) can range from being a potent set-up threat setup sweeper due to the combination of Swords Dance or Bulk Up, Moxie, and Aqua Step (RC) to being a solid utility Pokemon thanks to moves such as Knock Off, Roost, and Rapid Spin. Generally speaking, Quaquaval has a lot of potential in any given matchup thanks to its versatility. However, there are areas in which it does lack a bit. Its (fluff) its speed Speed is somewhat middling, allowing faster Choice Scarf users to outspeed and threaten it at +1. Furthermore, its relatively limited coverage leaves it vulnerable to Pokemon that can take hits from its STABs STAB moves.


[strategy comments]
Common Roles
========
**Wallbreaker**: Access to strong STAB moves such as Close Combat and Wave Crash allow allows Quaquaval to effectively punch holes in your opponent's team. This allows a different strong set-up threat setup sweeper (different doesn't apply here bc quack isn't acting as a setup sweeper; repeating strong twice in a row as an adjective so can use a synonym instead if you want) or a cleaner on your team to pick off the remains of whatever is left after Quaquaval has broken through the team.

**Setup sweeper**: Due to the incredibly strong combination of Aqua Step and Moxie, Quaquaval can very easily snowball into a winning position. This set generally runs Fighting-type STAB moves, (AC) and a combination of necessary coverage moves, (AC) and a set-up setup move to allow the iconic duck to run away with the game.

**Utility**: Quaquaval's utility arsenal is quite large. With access to moves such as Knock Off, Flip Turn, Roost, and Rapid Spin, it can very reliably disrupt your opponent's gameplan by removing items or entry hazards, or it can create opportunities for yourself you by gaining momentum through Flip Turn or U-Turn U-turn.

Common Moves
========
**Primary STAB moves**: Aqua Step, Wave Crash, Close Combat, Low Kick, Aqua Jet, Flip Turn

**Setup moves**: Swords Dance, Bulk Up

**Utility moves**: Rapid Spin, Roost, Encore, Taunt, U-Turn U-turn, Baton Pass

**Coverage**: Brave Bird, Ice Spinner, Triple Axel, Knock Off

Niche Moves
========
**Brick Break**: While generally Close Combat is the stronger and more consistent option in terms of STAB moves, Brick Break can be run as a measure against Reflect and/or Light Screen and Aurora Veil Reflect, Light Screen, and Aurora Veil.

**Facade**: Quaquaval can be quite vulnerable to status from common checks such as Will-O-Wisp from Rotom-Wash Rotom-W. Facade can be used to mitigate this weakness somewhat.

**Acrobatics**: This move can be a solid alternative to Brave Bird on sets where Quaquaval wants to use a consumable item like a berry for example Berry. While not quite as strong as Brave Bird, Acrobatics does not have recoil.

**Upper Hand**: Opposing priority moves are something to be wary of when using Quaquaval, since it can easily boost its speed Speed with Aqua Step. Upper Hand allows you Quaquaval to deny this these priority moves while still doing damage to your opponent its foe.

**Fling**: With Aqua Step and Close Combat as your Quaquaval's main STAB moves on most set-up setup variants, Fling can be an option to deal with bulky Psychic- or Ghost-Type Ghost-type Pokemon. When holding a Big Nugget, (AC) you it can get a maximum base power Base Power of 130, which allows it to be a powerful alternative to Knock Off.

Common Items
========
**Heavy-Duty Boots**: On offensive sets, Quaquaval generally wants to have as much health as possible so it won't get picked off by priority moves, Rocky Helmets Helmet, and other forms of damage it cannot avoid. For supportive sets, it commonly wants to function as a an entry hazard remover due to its access to Rapid Spin. Especially being Being able to remove Spikes and Toxic Spikes without having to suffer from taking too much damage or being Poisoned poisoned is very especially valuable (just moving especially to a place where it works to maintain voice).

**Damage-boosting Damage-Boosting items**: Quaquaval's limited coverage results in it mainly clicking using its STABs STAB moves in any given match-up matchup. Because of this, the respective items to boost either of its STAB types Mystic Water and Black Belt (why not just say the items?) are great options to allow it to push past certain Pokemon that would otherwise be able to switch in and threaten it out.

**Choice Band**: Choice Band is a great option for wallbreaking. Wave Crash + Close Combat is a very tough combination to deal with, (AC) and alongside this, Moxie can further boost its wallbreaking potential.

**Protective Pads**: Quaquaval mainly wants to use physical contact moves, which opens the door for the opponent to use Rocky Helmet as a method of easily punishing Quaquaval. Protective Pads circumvents this issue entirely at the cost of less power compared to a damage-boosting item.

Niche Items
========
**Sitrus Berry**: In a similar fashion to Heavy-Duty Boots, Sitrus Berry gives Quaquaval added longevity without having to sacrifice a moveslot (rs) for Roost when it can not afford to run it in a match-up matchup. However, Roost + Sitrus Berry can also be very nice to give yourself Quaquaval extra leeway in checking tough offensive threats with this Pokemon.

**Lum Berry**: Quaquaval can be quite vulnerable to status, with burn and paralysis being especially painful for the Pokemon it to deal with. Lum Berry gives a single-use buffer to this way of dealing with Quaquaval (this sentence is extremely opaque- rephrase to something clearer like "Lum Berry can help with this by curing Quaquaval's status once.") against status.

**Assault Vest**: While Quaquaval has great options in terms of status moves status move options with its set-up setup moves setup potential and utility moves such as Roost, Assault Vest can allow it to become a reasonable check to certain special attackers such as Chi-Yu and Volcarona. Quaquaval's large amount of attacking options allow it to easily run Assault Vest if needed.

**Rocky Helmet**: Water- and Fighting-type Quaquaval's Water / Fighting typing type has a good set of resistances that allow allows Quaquaval to naturally check popular threats such as Weavile, Kingambit, (AC) and Hisuian Samurott. Rocky Helmet punishes these physical attackers using when they use their STAB moves (clarity).

**Weakness Policy**: In certain scenarios, Weakness Policy can be used as an alternative form of set-up setup to allow for more coverage moves. The item It can also be used alongside Bulk Up's defense Defense boost to very quickly get +3 Attack while taking reduced damage thanks to the aforementioned defense boost (no need to repeat this).

Tera
========
While Quaquaval does not require Tera to be viable at all, it is a great option to further boost its offensive potential. Both of its STAB-typings STAB types in Water and Fighting make for great Tera types, (AC) as many checks struggle to resist both types. Flying- and Ice-type Tera Flying and Ice are useful, boosting coverage moves such as Brave Bird and Triple Axel and allowing Quaquaval a stronger option in dealing with defensive Grass-Type Grass-type Pokemon switch-ins like Amoonguss or and Shaymin that would normally be fine switching in. Alternatively, gaining extra coverage can be extremely valuable; (replaced comma with semicolon) as Electric-type for example for example, Tera Electric can make dealing with bulky Water-type Pokemon such as Primarina or and Slowking much easier. Defensive Tera-Types Tera types such as Fairy- or Steel-type Fairy and Steel can also be used to give Quaquaval extra set-up setup opportunities on Pokemon it normally would not be able to set up on.

Draft Strategy
========
Due to its versatility, Quaquaval can easily fit on a lot of drafts. Since Quaquaval is not reliant on Tera, it pairs well with higher-tier Pokemon that might appreciate Tera more. However, if you plan to make Quaquaval your Tera captain Captain, drafting higher-tier Pokemon that are restricted from using Tera is valuable. Another thing to keep in mind when drafting Quaquaval is that it is not limited to merely being an offensive tool. Moves like Rapid Spin allow it to safely remove entry hazards for partners such as Chi-Yu and Enamorus who that would normally fear hazards them (repetition).

**Entry hazard control**: While Quaquaval has the potential to snowball offensively, creating optimal conditions for this is preferred. Entry hazards such as Spikes can break down would-be checks (RC) to allow Quaquaval to push past them. A few examples of such hazard-setting (you don't talk about partners before this, just hazards, so such is inapplicable) partners are Garchomp, which together with Quaquaval make makes for a nice one-two punch (RC) both (redundant with as well as) in terms of hazard support as well as offense, or and Meowscarada, which can also lure Fire-types that Quaquaval can set up on or punish.

**Special wallbreakers wallbreakers**: Quaquaval is a great physical attacker; (replaced comma with semicolon) however, certain walls could can end up being too much for Quaquaval to get through. For walls that are simply too physically defensive, or that can boost their defense Defense through moves such as Iron Defense, it is important to have strong special attacking options alongside Quaquaval so that you can properly pressure the opposing team. It is also important to note that Quaquaval can easily enable these other wall-breakers wallbreakers thanks to its access to Flip Turn and U-Turn U-turn. A few examples of such partners could be are Darkrai, which can help Quaquaval in taking down physically defensive Psychic-types (AH), or Thundurus-Therian Thundurus-T, (AC) which is a great Pokemon to have for the bulky Water-types that would want to punish Quaquaval's Aqua Step.

**Screens support Dual screens support**: With offensive sets usually relying on the combination of Aqua Step and Moxie, dual screens support can be a great tool to further enable Quaquaval. Setting up with Swords Dance or Bulk Up becomes incredibly potent with the decreased damage, especially when combined with Roost for longevity. A few examples of such partners that can set dual screens are Alolan Ninetales, which can also pressure Grass Types Grass-types that Quaquaval struggles with, or Klefki, (AC) which can also use set entry hazards effectively.

Checks and Counters
========
**STAB resistances Water- and Fighting-type resistances**: Quaquaval's limited coverage means that it will be largely relying on STAB moves such as Aqua Step, Close Combat, and Wave Crash to deal significant damage. This means that Pokemon that can resist both or even one of Quaquaval's STAB types can effectively stop it from getting out of hand. Pokemon such as Latias, Azumarill, or and Toxapex can all make the match-up matchup much harder for Quaquaval.

**Status conditions conditions**: Both burn and paralysis are great ways of dealing with Quaquaval, with as burn limiting its Attack stat, thus making will make it harder to pick up KOs (rc) and with paralysis limiting its Speed, thus making while paralysis makes it harder to outspeed offensive threats after Aqua Step. Pokemon such as Zapdos, Rotom-Wash Rotom-W, and Gholdengo can be especially tough to handle, as they all also resist one of Quaquaval's STABs whilst STAB types while being able to dish out status conditions in return.

**Physical walls walls**: Since Quaquaval is primarily a physical attacker, Pokemon with a high enough defense Defense stat or access to defense-boosting Defense-boosting moves such as Iron Defense or and Acid Armor (RC) can stop Quaquaval from winning the game. Pokemon like Skarmory or and Iron Hands naturally will be able to take the hit and punish Quaquaval with Super Effective super effective moves or even through means like Rocky Helmet.

**Faster foes**: With its average base speed Speed, Quaquaval lacks an immediate speed Speed advantage over a lot of other offensive Pokemon. Because of this, it can be relatively easily outrun even after an Aqua Step by faster Choice Scarf users or Pokemon that have other ways to boost speed Speed. Speed Booster Energy Iron Valiant and Iron Bundle as well as Choice Scarf Meowscarada and Enamorus can all outspeed Quaquaval and threaten a KO to revenge kill it in return.

[credits]
Written by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/luxanse.630002/
Quality checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/olivia.620359/
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/hacker.387847/
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/vmnunes.613460/
Grammar checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/solarbeam.470115/
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/ken.594478/

 

[Luxanse]

1/1 GP Team done
i'm darker red/blue, comments in purple
added both credits

follow the directions from the video in this post to implement

ducke

blue = add
red = remove
(orange) = comment

[overview]
**Draft order**: Late round 2 onwards

**Price range**: 14-16 points

**Overview**: Quaquaval can function on a team in a variety of ways. It (fluff) can range from being a potent set-up threat setup sweeper due to the combination of Swords Dance or Bulk Up, Moxie, and Aqua Step (RC) to being a solid utility Pokemon thanks to moves such as Knock Off, Roost, and Rapid Spin. Generally speaking, Quaquaval has a lot of potential in any given matchup thanks to its versatility. However, there are areas in which it does lack a bit. Its (fluff) its speed Speed is somewhat middling, allowing faster Choice Scarf users to outspeed and threaten it at +1. Furthermore, its relatively limited coverage leaves it vulnerable to Pokemon that can take hits from its STABs STAB moves.


[strategy comments]
Common Roles
========
**Wallbreaker**: Access to strong STAB moves such as Close Combat and Wave Crash allow allows Quaquaval to effectively punch holes in your opponent's team. This allows a different strong set-up threat setup sweeper (different doesn't apply here bc quack isn't acting as a setup sweeper; repeating strong twice in a row as an adjective so can use a synonym instead if you want) or a cleaner on your team to pick off the remains of whatever is left after Quaquaval has broken through the team.

**Setup sweeper**: Due to the incredibly strong combination of Aqua Step and Moxie, Quaquaval can very easily snowball into a winning position. This set generally runs Fighting-type STAB moves, (AC) and a combination of necessary coverage moves, (AC) and a set-up setup move to allow the iconic duck to run away with the game.

**Utility**: Quaquaval's utility arsenal is quite large. With access to moves such as Knock Off, Flip Turn, Roost, and Rapid Spin, it can very reliably disrupt your opponent's gameplan by removing items or entry hazards, or it can create opportunities for yourself you by gaining momentum through Flip Turn or U-Turn U-turn.

Common Moves
========
**Primary STAB moves**: Aqua Step, Wave Crash, Close Combat, Low Kick, Aqua Jet, Flip Turn

**Setup moves**: Swords Dance, Bulk Up

**Utility moves**: Rapid Spin, Roost, Encore, Taunt, U-Turn U-turn, Baton Pass

**Coverage**: Brave Bird, Ice Spinner, Triple Axel, Knock Off

Niche Moves
========
**Brick Break**: While generally Close Combat is the stronger and more consistent option in terms of STAB moves, Brick Break can be run as a measure against Reflect and/or Light Screen and Aurora Veil Reflect, Light Screen, and Aurora Veil.

**Facade**: Quaquaval can be quite vulnerable to status from common checks such as Will-O-Wisp from Rotom-Wash Rotom-W. Facade can be used to mitigate this weakness somewhat.

**Acrobatics**: This move can be a solid alternative to Brave Bird on sets where Quaquaval wants to use a consumable item like a berry for example Berry. While not quite as strong as Brave Bird, Acrobatics does not have recoil.

**Upper Hand**: Opposing priority moves are something to be wary of when using Quaquaval, since it can easily boost its speed Speed with Aqua Step. Upper Hand allows you Quaquaval to deny this these priority moves while still doing damage to your opponent its foe.

**Fling**: With Aqua Step and Close Combat as your Quaquaval's main STAB moves on most set-up setup variants, Fling can be an option to deal with bulky Psychic- or Ghost-Type Ghost-type Pokemon. When holding a Big Nugget, (AC) you it can get a maximum base power Base Power of 130, which allows it to be a powerful alternative to Knock Off.

Common Items
========
**Heavy-Duty Boots**: On offensive sets, Quaquaval generally wants to have as much health as possible so it won't get picked off by priority moves, Rocky Helmets Helmet, and other forms of damage it cannot avoid. For supportive sets, it commonly wants to function as a an entry hazard remover due to its access to Rapid Spin. Especially being Being able to remove Spikes and Toxic Spikes without having to suffer from taking too much damage or being Poisoned poisoned is very especially valuable (just moving especially to a place where it works to maintain voice).

**Damage-boosting Damage-Boosting items**: Quaquaval's limited coverage results in it mainly clicking using its STABs STAB moves in any given match-up matchup. Because of this, the respective items to boost either of its STAB types Mystic Water and Black Belt (why not just say the items?) are great options to allow it to push past certain Pokemon that would otherwise be able to switch in and threaten it out.

**Choice Band**: Choice Band is a great option for wallbreaking. Wave Crash + Close Combat is a very tough combination to deal with, (AC) and alongside this, Moxie can further boost its wallbreaking potential.

**Protective Pads**: Quaquaval mainly wants to use physical contact moves, which opens the door for the opponent to use Rocky Helmet as a method of easily punishing Quaquaval. Protective Pads circumvents this issue entirely at the cost of less power compared to a damage-boosting item.

Niche Items
========
**Sitrus Berry**: In a similar fashion to Heavy-Duty Boots, Sitrus Berry gives Quaquaval added longevity without having to sacrifice a moveslot (rs) for Roost when it can not afford to run it in a match-up matchup. However, Roost + Sitrus Berry can also be very nice to give yourself Quaquaval extra leeway in checking tough offensive threats with this Pokemon.

**Lum Berry**: Quaquaval can be quite vulnerable to status, with burn and paralysis being especially painful for the Pokemon it to deal with. Lum Berry gives a single-use buffer to this way of dealing with Quaquaval (this sentence is extremely opaque- rephrase to something clearer like "Lum Berry can help with this by curing Quaquaval's status once.") against status.

**Assault Vest**: While Quaquaval has great options in terms of status moves status move options with its set-up setup moves setup potential and utility moves such as Roost, Assault Vest can allow it to become a reasonable check to certain special attackers such as Chi-Yu and Volcarona. Quaquaval's large amount of attacking options allow it to easily run Assault Vest if needed.

**Rocky Helmet**: Water- and Fighting-type Quaquaval's Water / Fighting typing type has a good set of resistances that allow allows Quaquaval to naturally check popular threats such as Weavile, Kingambit, (AC) and Hisuian Samurott. Rocky Helmet punishes these physical attackers using when they use their STAB moves (clarity).

**Weakness Policy**: In certain scenarios, Weakness Policy can be used as an alternative form of set-up setup to allow for more coverage moves. The item It can also be used alongside Bulk Up's defense Defense boost to very quickly get +3 Attack while taking reduced damage thanks to the aforementioned defense boost (no need to repeat this).

Tera
========
While Quaquaval does not require Tera to be viable at all, it is a great option to further boost its offensive potential. Both of its STAB-typings STAB types in Water and Fighting make for great Tera types, (AC) as many checks struggle to resist both types. Flying- and Ice-type Tera Flying and Ice are useful, boosting coverage moves such as Brave Bird and Triple Axel and allowing Quaquaval a stronger option in dealing with defensive Grass-Type Grass-type Pokemon switch-ins like Amoonguss or and Shaymin that would normally be fine switching in. Alternatively, gaining extra coverage can be extremely valuable; (replaced comma with semicolon) as Electric-type for example for example, Tera Electric can make dealing with bulky Water-type Pokemon such as Primarina or and Slowking much easier. Defensive Tera-Types Tera types such as Fairy- or Steel-type Fairy and Steel can also be used to give Quaquaval extra set-up setup opportunities on Pokemon it normally would not be able to set up on.

Draft Strategy
========
Due to its versatility, Quaquaval can easily fit on a lot of drafts. Since Quaquaval is not reliant on Tera, it pairs well with higher-tier Pokemon that might appreciate Tera more. However, if you plan to make Quaquaval your Tera captain Captain, drafting higher-tier Pokemon that are restricted from using Tera is valuable. Another thing to keep in mind when drafting Quaquaval is that it is not limited to merely being an offensive tool. Moves like Rapid Spin allow it to safely remove entry hazards for partners such as Chi-Yu and Enamorus who that would normally fear hazards them (repetition).

**Entry hazard control**: While Quaquaval has the potential to snowball offensively, creating optimal conditions for this is preferred. Entry hazards such as Spikes can break down would-be checks (RC) to allow Quaquaval to push past them. A few examples of such hazard-setting (you don't talk about partners before this, just hazards, so such is inapplicable) partners are Garchomp, which together with Quaquaval make makes for a nice one-two punch (RC) both (redundant with as well as) in terms of hazard support as well as offense, or and Meowscarada, which can also lure Fire-types that Quaquaval can set up on or punish.

**Special wallbreakers wallbreakers**: Quaquaval is a great physical attacker; (replaced comma with semicolon) however, certain walls could can end up being too much for Quaquaval to get through. For walls that are simply too physically defensive, or that can boost their defense Defense through moves such as Iron Defense, it is important to have strong special attacking options alongside Quaquaval so that you can properly pressure the opposing team. It is also important to note that Quaquaval can easily enable these other wall-breakers wallbreakers thanks to its access to Flip Turn and U-Turn U-turn. A few examples of such partners could be are Darkrai, which can help Quaquaval in taking down physically defensive Psychic-types (AH), or Thundurus-Therian Thundurus-T, (AC) which is a great Pokemon to have for the bulky Water-types that would want to punish Quaquaval's Aqua Step.

**Screens support Dual screens support**: With offensive sets usually relying on the combination of Aqua Step and Moxie, dual screens support can be a great tool to further enable Quaquaval. Setting up with Swords Dance or Bulk Up becomes incredibly potent with the decreased damage, especially when combined with Roost for longevity. A few examples of such partners that can set dual screens are Alolan Ninetales, which can also pressure Grass Types Grass-types that Quaquaval struggles with, or Klefki, (AC) which can also use set entry hazards effectively.

Checks and Counters
========
**STAB resistances Water- and Fighting-type resistances**: Quaquaval's limited coverage means that it will be largely relying on STAB moves such as Aqua Step, Close Combat, and Wave Crash to deal significant damage. This means that Pokemon that can resist both or even one of Quaquaval's STAB types can effectively stop it from getting out of hand. Pokemon such as Latias, Azumarill, or and Toxapex can all make the match-up matchup much harder for Quaquaval.

**Status conditions conditions**: Both burn and paralysis are great ways of dealing with Quaquaval, with as burn limiting its Attack stat, thus making will make it harder to pick up KOs (rc) and with paralysis limiting its Speed, thus making while paralysis makes it harder to outspeed offensive threats after Aqua Step. Pokemon such as Zapdos, Rotom-Wash Rotom-W, and Gholdengo can be especially tough to handle, as they all also resist one of Quaquaval's STABs whilst STAB types while being able to dish out status conditions in return.

**Physical walls walls**: Since Quaquaval is primarily a physical attacker, Pokemon with a high enough defense Defense stat or access to defense-boosting Defense-boosting moves such as Iron Defense or and Acid Armor (RC) can stop Quaquaval from winning the game. Pokemon like Skarmory or and Iron Hands naturally will be able to take the hit and punish Quaquaval with Super Effective super effective moves or even through means like Rocky Helmet.

**Faster foes**: With its average base speed Speed, Quaquaval lacks an immediate speed Speed advantage over a lot of other offensive Pokemon. Because of this, it can be relatively easily outrun even after an Aqua Step by faster Choice Scarf users or Pokemon that have other ways to boost speed Speed. Speed Booster Energy Iron Valiant and Iron Bundle as well as Choice Scarf Meowscarada and Enamorus can all outspeed Quaquaval and threaten a KO to revenge kill it in return.

[credits]
Written by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/luxanse.630002/
Quality checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/olivia.620359/
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/hacker.387847/
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/vmnunes.613460/
Grammar checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/solarbeam.470115/
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/ken.594478/

Implemented the GP changes, thank you very much.

I did have Mystic Water and Black Belt listed just as is initially but was advised to change it for consistency's sake. If it's better to list them as the items or to provide a more general description then please let me know and I'll change it.

 

[Hacker]

https://www.smogon.com/dex/sv/pokemon/quaquaval/draft/