Draft Raikou

[GoldenCyber]

[overview]
**Draft Order**: Round 5 onwards

**Price Range**: 11-12 points

**Overview**: Raikou is a good offensive pivot with a solid Speed tier and access to useful coverage moves like Scald and Aura Sphere, and it can also function as a sweeper with Calm Mind. Furthermore, it can pivot around with Volt Switch to support teammates with momentum. However, without a Calm Mind boost, Raikou lacks the offensive power to break past special walls. It also struggles against Grass- and Dragon-types, as it is prone to being worn down by them and lacks coverage options. Lastly, Raikou is overshadowed by other middle-tier special attackers with a similar price range and better role compression.

[strategy comments]
Common Roles
========
**Setup Sweeper**: Raikou can create offensive pressure by setting up with Calm Mind alongside Substitute to take advantage of passive walls. It can use the necessary coverage to deal with its checks and attempt to pull off a sweep. Raikou primarily requires the item Leftovers with Substitute to maintain longevity while setting up Calm Minds.

**Bulky Pivot**: Raikou has the well-rounded stats needed to run a bulky pivot set to check special attackers. This set takes some pressure off teammates having to deal with the aforementioned threats and can utilize Volt Switch to gain momentum throughout the game.

Common Moves
========
**Primary STAB Moves**: Thunderbolt, Discharge, Volt Switch

**Setup Moves**: Calm Mind

**Utility Moves**: Substitute, Thunder Wave, Roar

**Coverage**: Scald, Aura Sphere, Shadow Ball, Extrasensory

Niche Moves
========
**Charge Beam**: While this move is inferior to Calm Mind as a consistent setup option, it can prove useful on pivot sets, with which Raikou can generate enough Special Attack boosts to wallbreak or sweep.

**Snarl**: Snarl allows Raikou to disrupt special attackers by reducing their Special Attack. This move also works when dealing with slower special sweepers, as their sweeping capabilities are also hindered.

**Dual Screens**: In certain matchups where offensive Raikou struggles to make progress, it can support teammates with Light Screen and Reflect. On this set, it often pivots out with Volt Switch to get momentum and position effectively for its sweepers.

Common Items
========
**Heavy-Duty Boots**: Raikou is expected to enter the field multiple times to pivot or attempt to sweep with Calm Mind. As such, Heavy-Duty Boots is a useful item for preserving its health against entry hazards.

**Leftovers**: Leftovers grants Raikou passive recovery, which is needed when attempting to sweep with a Substitute + Calm Mind set or Pressure stall with Substitute + Protect.

Niche Items
========
**Shuca Berry**: Since Raikou's only type weakness is Ground, this item can come in handy to give Raikou another turn to deal good damage back with Scald or another coverage move.

**Chesto Berry**: If Raikou is expected to withstand notable damage while attempting to sweep with Calm Mind, it can utilize Rest to heal off any chip damage it receives and proceed to clean from there.

**Expert Belt**: Expert Belt gives a substantial boost to Raikou's coverage moves, granting it opportunities to get certain 2HKOs or OHKOs on opposing Pokemon that it would not be able to otherwise.

**Assault Vest**: Raikou can make the most use of its pivot role to serve as a soft check to special threats while attaining momentum for teammates with Volt Switch.

Tera
========
Raikou can make good use of certain Tera types to set up against its dedicated checks. Tera Flying and Grass help with Raikou's Ground weakness. In addition, Tera Flying can also let Raikou take advantage of Grass-types and break past them with Tera Blast. Lastly, Tera Fairy can provide it with a coverage option and immunity against Dragon-types. While Raikou can utilize Terastallization quite well, it should be known that you lose out on the chance to use a high-tier Tera Captain by choosing it as one, which means that you have to pick up an additional middle-tier Pokemon that can use Terastallization alongside it. This opportunity cost can weaken offensive team structures, as only a few solid teams can use Tera Raikou with substantial success. Furthermore, there are other Pokemon in a similar price range such as Galarian Moltres, Haxorus, Primarina, and Sandy Shocks that can serve as more suitable Tera Captains than Raikou.

Draft Strategy
========
Raikou should be picked up later in the draft and used on offensive or balance teams that appreciate a fast special pivot that can generate momentum for them. It is advised to pair it with solid physical attackers like Garchomp and Meowscarada to handle its checks, while in return, Raikou can get these attackers on the field with Volt Switch.

**Other Pivots**: Raikou appreciates teammates that can complement its own pivoting role and create a VoltTurn core. This can greatly support other wallbreakers and sweepers, and having more pivots can give Raikou an opportunity to run a wallbreaking or sweeping set.

**Physical Wallbreakers**: Raikou lacks the damage output to break past special walls; therefore, having physical wallbreakers to come in after a Volt Switch and heavily weaken them is highly valued.

**Entry Hazard Control**: Raikou appreciates good entry hazard setters such as Garchomp, Greninja, Ting-Lu, and Glimmora to accumulate chip damage on special walls, enabling it to get multiple 2HKOs on them. It is also recommended to pair Raikou with Pokemon that can remove hazards. Several good examples are Great Tusk, Corviknight, Iron Treads, and Scizor. Without proper hazard control, Raikou's pivoting role is limited without using Heavy-Duty Boots.

Checks and Counters
========
**Electric-resistant Pokemon*: Raikou's coverage moves do not hold up well against bulky Grass-, Dragon-, and Ground-type Pokemon. Grass-types can wear it down quite easily and heal off any damage they receive. Raikou also struggles to break past Dragon-types, and in return, it can be revenge killed or exploited for setup opportunities. Lastly, Ground-types pose a threat to Raikou, as they threaten to OHKO it quite easily if its coverage moves do not deal enough damage to defeat them.

**Special Walls**: Certain special walls like Ting-Lu, Galarian Slowking, Hydrapple, and Clodsire can shrug off any attacks Raikou throws at them and proceed to gradually chip it down or recover from the damage received.

**Faster Threats**: While Raikou has a good Speed tier, it is prone to getting revenge killed by naturally faster pokemon such as Meowscarada, Iron Valiant, Iron Boulder, and Cinderace. In addition, Choice Scarf users like Urshifu-S, Landorus-T, Infernape, and Zarude can easily outspeed and potentially KO it.

[credits]
Written by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/goldencyber.562690/
Quality checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/hacker.387847/
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/nyx.564960/
Grammar checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/solarbeam.470115/

 

[GoldenCyber]

ready for qc 1

 

[olivia]

hiya, this needs expanded to provide a lot more detail and also to fall more in line with our standards. ping me when you expand it a bit and i'll give it a full qc check, i'd suggest having another look at this thread and other uploaded analyses to see how to approach it

 

[GoldenCyber]

hiya, this needs expanded to provide a lot more detail and also to fall more in line with our standards. ping me when you expand it a bit and i'll give it a full qc check, i'd suggest having another look at this thread and other uploaded analyses to see how to approach it

done, ready for qc

 

[Hacker]

qc 1/2

[overview]
**Draft Order**: Round 5 onwards

**Price Range**: 11-12 Points

**Overview**: Raikou is a good offensive pivot with a solid speed tier and access to useful coverage moves like Scald and Aura Sphere. It can also function as a sweeper with Calm Mind to wear down its checks. Raikou can pivot around with Volt Switch to support teams with momentum. Without Heavy-Duty Boots, Raikou gets worn down by hazards over time which hinders its sweeping capabilities and pivoting. It also lacks the raw damage output to break past special walls without a boost. (information is good, could maybe reword some of this to make it flow better or whatever tho. gp thing)

[strategy comments]
Common Roles
========
**Setup Sweeper**: Raikou can create offensive pressure by setting up with Calm Mind, and using alongside Substitute to take advantage of passive walls. It can use the necessary its coverage to deal with its checks. It is advised that Raikou needs hazard removal support to ensure it can sweep effectively and maintain longevity with Leftovers. (can just mention this set primarily uses leftovers in combo with lefties. wouldnt say u rly need hazard control with setup sets tho. just reword later bit of longevity with lefties)

**Bulky Pivot**: Raikou has the well-rounded stats needed to run a bulky pivot set with Assault Vest to check special attackers. This set takes some pressure off teammates having to deal with the aforementioned threats, and Raikou can utilize Volt Switch to gain momentum throughout the game.

**Screens Pivot**: Raikou can support teammates further with Light Screen and Reflect. It also has the option to pivot out with Volt Switch to get momentum and position effectively for its sweepers. (feels a little niche but maybe its fine. up to you or qc2)

Common Moves
========
**Primary STAB Moves**: Thunderbolt, Discharge, Volt Switch, Charge Beam (charge beam to niche or setup. fine with either)

**Setup Moves**: Calm Mind

**Utility Moves**: Substitute, Thunder Wave, Reflect, Light Screen, Reflect, Roar

**Coverage**: Scald, Aura Sphere, Shadow Ball, Extrasensory

Niche Moves
========
**Sunny Day / Rain Dance**: Raikou can set up weather in conjunction with using Weather Ball to weaken or outright eliminate certain checks that would otherwise resist its Electric-type and coverage moves. This option is more effective to support teammates with weather-oriented abilities. (na)

**Snarl**: Snarl allows Raikou to disrupt special attackers by crippling their stat to take less damage. This move also works when dealing with special sweepers that are slower, as their sweeping capabilities would continue to be hindered and Raikou can freely switch with a teammate to deal with them.

Common Items
========
**Heavy-Duty Boots**: Raikou is expected to enter the field multiple times as a pivot, or attempt to sweep with Calm Mind. With that said, Heavy-Duty Boots is a useful item for preserving its health against entry hazards.

**Leftovers**: Leftovers grants passive recovery for Raikou, which is needed when attempting to sweep with a Substitute + Calm Mind set, or attempting to Pressure stall with Substitute + Protect.

**Life Orb**: This item sacrifices longevity to greatly improve Raikou's damage output. Even after a Calm Mind boost, Raikou can get certain 2HKOes or OHKOes on opposing Pokemon that it would not be able to otherwise. (make this damage-boosting items with ebelt)

Niche Items
========
**Expert Belt**: Expert Belt gives a substantial boost to Raikou's coverage moves. It also grants it a bit more longevity in comparison to Life Orb, with the downside of not dealing as much damage. (read above)

**Shuca Berry**: Since Raikou's only type weakness are Ground-types, this item can come in handy to give Raikou another turn to deal good damage back with Scald or another coverage move.

**Chesto Berry**: If Raikou is expected to withstand notable damage while attempting to sweep with Calm Mind, it can utilize Rest to heal off any chip damage it received beforehand, and proceed to clean from there.

Tera
========
Raikou makes a great secondary Tera captain, as it has the manageable bulk and good offensive stats to utilize Terastallization while granting it additional coverage options. In addition, it can also use Tera to abuse wall it's dedicated checks with Substitute + Calm Mind, making it harder for the opponent to wear down Raikou without losing multiple Pokemon in the process.

Draft Strategy
========
Raikou should be picked up much later in the draft, and should be used on offensive or balance teams that would appreciate a fast special pivot that can generate momentum for them. In addition, fulfilling a VoltTurn core with Raikou is a great option to enable your teammates to make notable progress, and sweepers can be positioned better to clean.

**Other Pivots**: Raikou appreciates a teammates that can compliment its own pivoting role and generate a VoltTurn core. This can greatly support other wallbreakers and sweepers, and can even give Raikou an opportunity to sweep as well. (as in having enough pivots to free raikou up to run other sets like wallbreaking or sweeping? need clarification)

**Physical Wallbreakers**: Raikou lacks the damage output to break past special walls, therefore having physical breakers to come in after a Volt Switch and heavily weaken them is highly valued.

**Entry Hazard Control**: Raikou appreciates good hazard setters to accumulate chip on special walls, enabling Raikou to get multiple 2HKOes on them. It is also recommended to pair Raikou with hazard removal, as it's pivoting role will be limited without the use of Heavy-Duty Boots.

Checks and Counters
========
**Bulky Grass-types**: Raikou's coverage moves does not hold up well against bulky Grass-type Pokemon, as they can wear down Raikou quite easily and heal off any damage they received beforehand.

**Bulky Ground-types**: Ground-types pose as a threat to Raikou, as they threaten to OHKO it quite easily if Raikou's coverage moves do not deal enough damage to defeat them.

**Dragon-types**: Raikou struggles to break past Dragon-types, and in return it can be revenge killed or exploited for set-up opportunities, although the sweepers would need to be wary of Thunder Wave. (pretty real but i think you can just call this and bulky grass types special walls. up to you tho)

**Special Walls**: Certain special walls can shrug off any attacks Raikou throws at them, and proceed to gradually chip it down or recover from the damage received.

**Faster Threats**: While Raikou has a good speed tier, it is prone to getting revenge killed by naturally faster pokemon such as Meowscarada, Iron Valiant and Cinderace, as well as Choice Scarf users. Although specially offensive attackers might require more prior damage on Raikou if it has a Calm Mind boost. (didnt feel needed esp as cat, valiant, and cinder are physical attackers)

 

[GoldenCyber]

alright ty, ready for qc 2

 

[Nyx]

GoldenCyber, post: 10033965, member: 562690

[overview]
**Draft Order**: Round 5 onwards

**Price Range**: 11-12 Points

**Overview**: Raikou is a good offensive pivot with a solid Speed tier and access to useful coverage moves like Scald and Aura Sphere. It , and it can also function as a sweeper with Calm Mind to wear down its checks. Furthermore, Raikou can pivot around with Volt Switch to support teammates with momentum. Without Heavy-Duty Boots, Raikou gets worn down by hazards over time which hinders its sweeping capabilities and pivoting. It also lacks the raw damage output to break past special walls without a boost. remove the first sentence, reword the second and mention its other drawbacks such as struggling against Grass-types, as well as usually being overshadowed by other mons around the same cost, its rarely anyones first choice

[strategy comments]
Common Roles
========
**Setup Sweeper**: Raikou can create offensive pressure by setting up with Calm Mind alongside Substitute to take advantage of passive walls. It can use its coverage to deal with its checks. This set primarily uses Leftovers to maintain longevity.

**Bulky Pivot**: Raikou has the well-rounded stats needed to run a bulky pivot set with Assault Vest to check special attackers. This set takes some pressure off teammates having to deal with the aforementioned threats, and Raikou can utilize Volt Switch to gain momentum throughout the game.

**Screens Pivot**: Raikou can support teammates further with Light Screen and Reflect. It also has the option to pivot out with Volt Switch to get momentum and position effectively for its sweepers. this is not a common set, move screens to niche

Common Moves
========
**Primary STAB Moves**: Thunderbolt, Discharge, Volt Switch

**Setup Moves**: Calm Mind

**Utility Moves**: Substitute, Thunder Wave, Reflect, Light Screen, Reflect, Roar

**Coverage**: Scald, Aura Sphere, Shadow Ball, Extrasensory

Niche Moves
========
**Charge Beam**: While this move is inferior to the more consistent setup option that is Calm Mind, it can prove useful on the Assault Vest pivot sets in which Raikou could generate enough Special Attack boosts to wallbreak or sweep.

**Snarl**: Snarl allows Raikou to disrupt special attackers by crippling their stat to take less damage. This move also works when dealing with special sweepers that are slower, as their sweeping capabilities would continue to be hindered.

add screens here

Common Items
========
**Heavy-Duty Boots**: Raikou is expected to enter the field multiple times as a pivot, or attempt to sweep with Calm Mind. With that said, Heavy-Duty Boots is a useful item for preserving its health against entry hazards.

**Leftovers**: Leftovers grants passive recovery for Raikou, which is needed when attempting to sweep with a Substitute + Calm Mind set, or attempting to Pressure stall with Substitute + Protect.

**Damage-Boosting Items**: Life Orb sacrifices longevity to greatly improve Raikou's damage output. Even after a Calm Mind boost, Raikou can get certain 2HKOes or OHKOes on opposing Pokemon that it would not be able to otherwise. Alternatively, Expert Belt gives a substantial boost to Raikou's coverage moves. It also grants it a bit more longevity in comparison to Life Orb, with the downside of not dealing as much damage. discussed in qc, move these to niche, there any rsn for LO over magnet/ebelt? feels like redundant chip most of the time given ur basically spamming tbolt bar coverage into mons said coverage can hit for se damage

Niche Items
========
**Shuca Berry**: Since Raikou's only type weakness are Ground-types, this item can come in handy to give Raikou another turn to deal good damage back with Scald or another coverage move.

**Chesto Berry**: If Raikou is expected to withstand notable damage while attempting to sweep with Calm Mind, it can utilize Rest to heal off any chip damage it received beforehand, and proceed to clean from there.

add assault vest here, can also add light clay since u mentioned screens but i dont feel strongly here

Tera
========
Raikou makes a great secondary Tera captain, as it has the manageable bulk and good offensive stats to utilize Terastallization while granting it additional coverage options. In addition, it can also use Tera to wall its dedicated checks with Substitute + Calm Mind, making it harder for the opponent to wear down Raikou without losing multiple Pokemon in the process.
few problems with this section as a whole
- raikous cost means that if ur getting it as a tera cap, ur other one is at most 14pts, meaning ur skipping out on a high tier tera for it
- even if ur gonna do that, other mons at a similar cost benefit more. make the opportunity cost clear, very few drafts can actually tera raikou even if it uses tera well
- needs to list some example typings, what defensive/offensive ones will it use?|

Draft Strategy
========
Raikou should be picked up later in the draft, and should be used on offensive or balance teams that would appreciate a fast special pivot that can generate momentum for them. In addition, fulfilling a VoltTurn core with Raikou is a great option enable your teammates to make notable progress, and sweepers can be positioned better to clean. fluff, u explain this later

**Other Pivots**: Raikou appreciates teammates that can compliment its own pivoting role and generate a VoltTurn core. This can greatly support other wallbreakers and sweepers, and having more pivots can give Raikou an opportunity to run a wallbreaking or sweeping set.

**Physical Wallbreakers**: Raikou lacks the damage output to break past special walls, therefore having physical breakers to come in after a Volt Switch and heavily weaken them is highly valued.

**Entry Hazard Control**: Raikou appreciates good hazard setters to accumulate chip on special walls, enabling Raikou to get multiple 2HKOes on them. It is also recommended to pair Raikou with hazard removal, as it's pivoting role will be limited without the use of Heavy-Duty Boots.

list examples for all of these, we aim for 3 usually

Checks and Counters
========
**Bulky Grass-types**: Raikou's coverage moves does not hold up well against bulky Grass-type Pokemon, as they can wear down Raikou quite easily and heal off any damage they received beforehand.

**Bulky Ground-types**: Ground-types pose as a threat to Raikou, as they threaten to OHKO it quite easily if Raikou's coverage moves do not deal enough damage to defeat them.

**Dragon-types**: Raikou struggles to break past Dragon-types, and in return it can be revenge killed or exploited for set-up opportunities, although the sweepers would need to be wary of Thunder Wave. merge these 3 together, id call it Electric Resists, you're functionally saying the same thing three times over

**Special Walls**: Certain special walls can shrug off any attacks Raikou throws at them, and proceed to gradually chip it down or recover from the damage received.

**Faster Threats**: While Raikou has a good speed tier, it is prone to getting revenge killed by naturally faster pokemon such as Meowscarada, Iron Valiant and Cinderace, as well as Choice Scarf users.

give examples again

[credits]
Written by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/goldencyber.562690/
Quality checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/hacker.387847/
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/nyx.564960/
Grammar checked by:

Not giving this a stamp yet, @ me once its implemented so I can give it a second check

 

[GoldenCyber]

GoldenCyber, post: 10033965, member: 562690

[overview]
**Draft Order**: Round 5 onwards

**Price Range**: 11-12 Points

**Overview**: Raikou is a good offensive pivot with a solid Speed tier and access to useful coverage moves like Scald and Aura Sphere. It , and it can also function as a sweeper with Calm Mind to wear down its checks. Furthermore, Raikou can pivot around with Volt Switch to support teammates with momentum. Without Heavy-Duty Boots, Raikou gets worn down by hazards over time which hinders its sweeping capabilities and pivoting. It also lacks the raw damage output to break past special walls without a boost. remove the first sentence, reword the second and mention its other drawbacks such as struggling against Grass-types, as well as usually being overshadowed by other mons around the same cost, its rarely anyones first choice

[strategy comments]
Common Roles
========
**Setup Sweeper**: Raikou can create offensive pressure by setting up with Calm Mind alongside Substitute to take advantage of passive walls. It can use its coverage to deal with its checks. This set primarily uses Leftovers to maintain longevity.

**Bulky Pivot**: Raikou has the well-rounded stats needed to run a bulky pivot set with Assault Vest to check special attackers. This set takes some pressure off teammates having to deal with the aforementioned threats, and Raikou can utilize Volt Switch to gain momentum throughout the game.

**Screens Pivot**: Raikou can support teammates further with Light Screen and Reflect. It also has the option to pivot out with Volt Switch to get momentum and position effectively for its sweepers. this is not a common set, move screens to niche

Common Moves
========
**Primary STAB Moves**: Thunderbolt, Discharge, Volt Switch

**Setup Moves**: Calm Mind

**Utility Moves**: Substitute, Thunder Wave, Reflect, Light Screen, Reflect, Roar

**Coverage**: Scald, Aura Sphere, Shadow Ball, Extrasensory

Niche Moves
========
**Charge Beam**: While this move is inferior to the more consistent setup option that is Calm Mind, it can prove useful on the Assault Vest pivot sets in which Raikou could generate enough Special Attack boosts to wallbreak or sweep.

**Snarl**: Snarl allows Raikou to disrupt special attackers by crippling their stat to take less damage. This move also works when dealing with special sweepers that are slower, as their sweeping capabilities would continue to be hindered.

add screens here

Common Items
========
**Heavy-Duty Boots**: Raikou is expected to enter the field multiple times as a pivot, or attempt to sweep with Calm Mind. With that said, Heavy-Duty Boots is a useful item for preserving its health against entry hazards.

**Leftovers**: Leftovers grants passive recovery for Raikou, which is needed when attempting to sweep with a Substitute + Calm Mind set, or attempting to Pressure stall with Substitute + Protect.

**Damage-Boosting Items**: Life Orb sacrifices longevity to greatly improve Raikou's damage output. Even after a Calm Mind boost, Raikou can get certain 2HKOes or OHKOes on opposing Pokemon that it would not be able to otherwise. Alternatively, Expert Belt gives a substantial boost to Raikou's coverage moves. It also grants it a bit more longevity in comparison to Life Orb, with the downside of not dealing as much damage. discussed in qc, move these to niche, there any rsn for LO over magnet/ebelt? feels like redundant chip most of the time given ur basically spamming tbolt bar coverage into mons said coverage can hit for se damage

Niche Items
========
**Shuca Berry**: Since Raikou's only type weakness are Ground-types, this item can come in handy to give Raikou another turn to deal good damage back with Scald or another coverage move.

**Chesto Berry**: If Raikou is expected to withstand notable damage while attempting to sweep with Calm Mind, it can utilize Rest to heal off any chip damage it received beforehand, and proceed to clean from there.

add assault vest here, can also add light clay since u mentioned screens but i dont feel strongly here

Tera
========
Raikou makes a great secondary Tera captain, as it has the manageable bulk and good offensive stats to utilize Terastallization while granting it additional coverage options. In addition, it can also use Tera to wall its dedicated checks with Substitute + Calm Mind, making it harder for the opponent to wear down Raikou without losing multiple Pokemon in the process.
few problems with this section as a whole
- raikous cost means that if ur getting it as a tera cap, ur other one is at most 14pts, meaning ur skipping out on a high tier tera for it
- even if ur gonna do that, other mons at a similar cost benefit more. make the opportunity cost clear, very few drafts can actually tera raikou even if it uses tera well
- needs to list some example typings, what defensive/offensive ones will it use?|

Draft Strategy
========
Raikou should be picked up later in the draft, and should be used on offensive or balance teams that would appreciate a fast special pivot that can generate momentum for them. In addition, fulfilling a VoltTurn core with Raikou is a great option enable your teammates to make notable progress, and sweepers can be positioned better to clean. fluff, u explain this later

**Other Pivots**: Raikou appreciates teammates that can compliment its own pivoting role and generate a VoltTurn core. This can greatly support other wallbreakers and sweepers, and having more pivots can give Raikou an opportunity to run a wallbreaking or sweeping set.

**Physical Wallbreakers**: Raikou lacks the damage output to break past special walls, therefore having physical breakers to come in after a Volt Switch and heavily weaken them is highly valued.

**Entry Hazard Control**: Raikou appreciates good hazard setters to accumulate chip on special walls, enabling Raikou to get multiple 2HKOes on them. It is also recommended to pair Raikou with hazard removal, as it's pivoting role will be limited without the use of Heavy-Duty Boots.

list examples for all of these, we aim for 3 usually

Checks and Counters
========
**Bulky Grass-types**: Raikou's coverage moves does not hold up well against bulky Grass-type Pokemon, as they can wear down Raikou quite easily and heal off any damage they received beforehand.

**Bulky Ground-types**: Ground-types pose as a threat to Raikou, as they threaten to OHKO it quite easily if Raikou's coverage moves do not deal enough damage to defeat them.

**Dragon-types**: Raikou struggles to break past Dragon-types, and in return it can be revenge killed or exploited for set-up opportunities, although the sweepers would need to be wary of Thunder Wave. merge these 3 together, id call it Electric Resists, you're functionally saying the same thing three times over

**Special Walls**: Certain special walls can shrug off any attacks Raikou throws at them, and proceed to gradually chip it down or recover from the damage received.

**Faster Threats**: While Raikou has a good speed tier, it is prone to getting revenge killed by naturally faster pokemon such as Meowscarada, Iron Valiant and Cinderace, as well as Choice Scarf users.

give examples again

[credits]
Written by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/goldencyber.562690/
Quality checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/hacker.387847/
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/nyx.564960/
Grammar checked by:

Not giving this a stamp yet, @ me once its implemented so I can give it a second check

Ok give it another review, and I'll make the changes

 

[Nyx]

GoldenCyber, post: 10033965, member: 562690

[overview]
**Draft Order**: Round 5 onwards

**Price Range**: 11-12 Points

**Overview**: Raikou is a good offensive pivot with a solid Speed tier and access to useful coverage moves like Scald and Aura Sphere, and it can also function as a sweeper with Calm Mind. Furthermore, Raikou can pivot around with Volt Switch to support teammates with momentum. Without a Calm Mind boost, Raikou lacks the offensive power to break past special walls. It also struggles against Grass- and Dragon-types due to limited coverage options. Raikou is overshadowed by other Pokemon for a similar price and better role compression.

[strategy comments]
Common Roles
========
**Setup Sweeper**: Raikou can create offensive pressure by setting up with Calm Mind alongside Substitute to take advantage of passive walls. It can use its coverage to deal with its checks. This set primarily uses Leftovers to maintain longevity.

**Bulky Pivot**: Raikou has the well-rounded stats needed to run a bulky pivot set to check special attackers. This set takes some pressure off teammates having to deal with the aforementioned threats, and Raikou can utilize Volt Switch to gain momentum throughout the game.

Common Moves
========
**Primary STAB Moves**: Thunderbolt, Discharge, Volt Switch

**Setup Moves**: Calm Mind

**Utility Moves**: Substitute, Thunder Wave, Roar

**Coverage**: Scald, Aura Sphere, Shadow Ball, Extrasensory

Niche Moves
========
**Charge Beam**: While this move is inferior to the more consistent setup option that is Calm Mind, it can prove useful on the pivot sets in which Raikou could generate enough Special Attack boosts to wallbreak or sweep.

**Snarl**: Snarl allows Raikou to disrupt special attackers by crippling their stat to take less damage. This move also works when dealing with special sweepers that are slower, as their sweeping capabilities would continue to be hindered.

**Screens**: Raikou can support teammates further with Light Screen and Reflect. It also has the option to pivot out with Volt Switch to get momentum and position effectively for its sweepers. id make it clear that this is only considered in mus where offensive raikou is ass, its rare to wanna use it as a screensetter

Common Items
========
**Heavy-Duty Boots**: Raikou is expected to enter the field multiple times as a pivot, or attempt to sweep with Calm Mind. With that said, Heavy-Duty Boots is a useful item for preserving its health against entry hazards.

**Leftovers**: Leftovers grants passive recovery for Raikou, which is needed when attempting to sweep with a Substitute + Calm Mind set, or attempting to Pressure stall with Substitute + Protect.

Niche Items
========
**Shuca Berry**: Since Raikou's only type weakness are Ground-types, this item can come in handy to give Raikou another turn to deal good damage back with Scald or another coverage move.

**Chesto Berry**: If Raikou is expected to withstand notable damage while attempting to sweep with Calm Mind, it can utilize Rest to heal off any chip damage it received beforehand, and proceed to clean from there.

**Expert Belt**: Expert Belt gives a substantial boost to Raikou's coverage moves, granting it opportunities to get certain 2HKOes or OHKOes on opposing Pokemon that it would not be able to otherwise.

**Assault Vest**: Raikou can make the most use of its pivot role to serve as a soft check to special threats while attaining momentum for teammates with Volt Switch.

Tera
========
With Terastilization, Raikou can make good use of certain Tera typings to set up against its dedicated checks. Tera Flying or Grass helps with Raikou's Ground weakness. In addition, Tera Flying can also take advantage of Grass-types and break past them with Tera Blast. Lastly, Tera Fairy can provide it with a coverage option and immunity against Dragon-types. While Raikou can utilize Terastallization quite well, it should be known that you lose out on the chance to draft a high tier Tera Captain, which indicates that you have to pick up an additional middle tier Pokemon that can use Terastilization alongside Raikou. This opportunity cost could weaken the offensive team structure in general, as only a few solid teams can use Tera Raikou with substantial success. Furthermore, tThere are also other Pokemon in a similar price range such as Moltres-Galar, Haxorus, Primarina, and Sandy Shocks, that can serve as more suitable Tera Captains than Raikou.

Draft Strategy
========
Raikou should be picked up later in the draft, and should be used on offensive or balance teams that would appreciate a fast special pivot that can generate momentum for them. It would be advised to pair it with solid physical attackers like Garchomp and Meowscarada to handle Raikou's checks while in return, Raikou can get them on the field with Volt Switch.

**Other Pivots**: Raikou appreciates teammates that can compliment its own pivoting role and generate a VoltTurn core. This can greatly support other wallbreakers and sweepers, and having more pivots can give Raikou an opportunity to run a wallbreaking or sweeping set.

**Physical Wallbreakers**: Raikou lacks the damage output to break past special walls, therefore having physical breakers to come in after a Volt Switch and heavily weaken them is highly valued.

**Entry Hazard Control**: Raikou appreciates good hazard setters such as Garchomp, Greninja, Ting-Lu, and Glimmora to accumulate chip on special walls, enabling Raikou to get multiple 2HKOes on them. It is also recommended to pair Raikou with Pokemon that can remove hazards. Several good examples would be Great Tusk, Corviknight, Iron Treads, and Scizor. Without proper hazard control, Raikou's pivoting role will be limited without the use of Heavy-Duty Boots.

Checks and Counters
========
**Electric resists*: Raikou's coverage moves does not hold up well against bulky Grass-, Dragon-, and Ground-type Pokemon. Grass-types can wear down Raikou quite easily and heal off any damage they received beforehand. Raikou struggles to break past Dragon-types, and in return it can be revenge killed or exploited for set-up opportunities. Lastly, Ground-types pose as a threat to Raikou, as they threaten to OHKO it quite easily if Raikou's coverage moves do not deal enough damage to defeat them.

**Special Walls**: Certain special walls can shrug off any attacks Raikou throws at them, and proceed to gradually chip it down or recover from the damage received. give some examples

**Faster Threats**: While Raikou has a good speed tier, it is prone to getting revenge killed by naturally faster pokemon such as Meowscarada, Iron Valiant, Iron Boulder, and Cinderace. In addition, Choice Scarf users like Urshifu-Single, Landorus-T, Infernape, and Zarude can easily outspeed and potentially knock out Raikou.

[credits]
Written by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/goldencyber.562690/
Quality checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/hacker.387847/
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/nyx.564960/
Grammar checked by:

QC 2/2 - few minor content edits. I would take a second to read over this for the tone though. A lot of it reads very textbooky/straight and to the point, this is a piece being written for a hobby and it feels too short and to the point at times. A few examples are the following

It also struggles against Grass- and Dragon-types due to limited coverage options. Raikou is overshadowed by other Pokemon for a similar price and better role compression.

It can use its coverage to deal with its checks. This set primarily uses Leftovers to maintain longevity.

Neither of these are wrong at all, but it feels very robotic; you managed to hit the nail on the head tone wise with stuff like the boots section though, I'd try replicate that tone throughout

**Heavy-Duty Boots**: Raikou is expected to enter the field multiple times as a pivot, or attempt to sweep with Calm Mind. With that said, Heavy-Duty Boots is a useful item for preserving its health against entry hazards.

I'd read some uploaded pieces if you're struggling to find a tone that works, there's a line between robotic and excess fluff.

 

[GoldenCyber]

GoldenCyber, post: 10033965, member: 562690

[overview]
**Draft Order**: Round 5 onwards

**Price Range**: 11-12 Points

**Overview**: Raikou is a good offensive pivot with a solid Speed tier and access to useful coverage moves like Scald and Aura Sphere, and it can also function as a sweeper with Calm Mind. Furthermore, Raikou can pivot around with Volt Switch to support teammates with momentum. Without a Calm Mind boost, Raikou lacks the offensive power to break past special walls. It also struggles against Grass- and Dragon-types due to limited coverage options. Raikou is overshadowed by other Pokemon for a similar price and better role compression.

[strategy comments]
Common Roles
========
**Setup Sweeper**: Raikou can create offensive pressure by setting up with Calm Mind alongside Substitute to take advantage of passive walls. It can use its coverage to deal with its checks. This set primarily uses Leftovers to maintain longevity.

**Bulky Pivot**: Raikou has the well-rounded stats needed to run a bulky pivot set to check special attackers. This set takes some pressure off teammates having to deal with the aforementioned threats, and Raikou can utilize Volt Switch to gain momentum throughout the game.

Common Moves
========
**Primary STAB Moves**: Thunderbolt, Discharge, Volt Switch

**Setup Moves**: Calm Mind

**Utility Moves**: Substitute, Thunder Wave, Roar

**Coverage**: Scald, Aura Sphere, Shadow Ball, Extrasensory

Niche Moves
========
**Charge Beam**: While this move is inferior to the more consistent setup option that is Calm Mind, it can prove useful on the pivot sets in which Raikou could generate enough Special Attack boosts to wallbreak or sweep.

**Snarl**: Snarl allows Raikou to disrupt special attackers by crippling their stat to take less damage. This move also works when dealing with special sweepers that are slower, as their sweeping capabilities would continue to be hindered.

**Screens**: Raikou can support teammates further with Light Screen and Reflect. It also has the option to pivot out with Volt Switch to get momentum and position effectively for its sweepers. id make it clear that this is only considered in mus where offensive raikou is ass, its rare to wanna use it as a screensetter

Common Items
========
**Heavy-Duty Boots**: Raikou is expected to enter the field multiple times as a pivot, or attempt to sweep with Calm Mind. With that said, Heavy-Duty Boots is a useful item for preserving its health against entry hazards.

**Leftovers**: Leftovers grants passive recovery for Raikou, which is needed when attempting to sweep with a Substitute + Calm Mind set, or attempting to Pressure stall with Substitute + Protect.

Niche Items
========
**Shuca Berry**: Since Raikou's only type weakness are Ground-types, this item can come in handy to give Raikou another turn to deal good damage back with Scald or another coverage move.

**Chesto Berry**: If Raikou is expected to withstand notable damage while attempting to sweep with Calm Mind, it can utilize Rest to heal off any chip damage it received beforehand, and proceed to clean from there.

**Expert Belt**: Expert Belt gives a substantial boost to Raikou's coverage moves, granting it opportunities to get certain 2HKOes or OHKOes on opposing Pokemon that it would not be able to otherwise.

**Assault Vest**: Raikou can make the most use of its pivot role to serve as a soft check to special threats while attaining momentum for teammates with Volt Switch.

Tera
========
With Terastilization, Raikou can make good use of certain Tera typings to set up against its dedicated checks. Tera Flying or Grass helps with Raikou's Ground weakness. In addition, Tera Flying can also take advantage of Grass-types and break past them with Tera Blast. Lastly, Tera Fairy can provide it with a coverage option and immunity against Dragon-types. While Raikou can utilize Terastallization quite well, it should be known that you lose out on the chance to draft a high tier Tera Captain, which indicates that you have to pick up an additional middle tier Pokemon that can use Terastilization alongside Raikou. This opportunity cost could weaken the offensive team structure in general, as only a few solid teams can use Tera Raikou with substantial success. Furthermore, tThere are also other Pokemon in a similar price range such as Moltres-Galar, Haxorus, Primarina, and Sandy Shocks, that can serve as more suitable Tera Captains than Raikou.

Draft Strategy
========
Raikou should be picked up later in the draft, and should be used on offensive or balance teams that would appreciate a fast special pivot that can generate momentum for them. It would be advised to pair it with solid physical attackers like Garchomp and Meowscarada to handle Raikou's checks while in return, Raikou can get them on the field with Volt Switch.

**Other Pivots**: Raikou appreciates teammates that can compliment its own pivoting role and generate a VoltTurn core. This can greatly support other wallbreakers and sweepers, and having more pivots can give Raikou an opportunity to run a wallbreaking or sweeping set.

**Physical Wallbreakers**: Raikou lacks the damage output to break past special walls, therefore having physical breakers to come in after a Volt Switch and heavily weaken them is highly valued.

**Entry Hazard Control**: Raikou appreciates good hazard setters such as Garchomp, Greninja, Ting-Lu, and Glimmora to accumulate chip on special walls, enabling Raikou to get multiple 2HKOes on them. It is also recommended to pair Raikou with Pokemon that can remove hazards. Several good examples would be Great Tusk, Corviknight, Iron Treads, and Scizor. Without proper hazard control, Raikou's pivoting role will be limited without the use of Heavy-Duty Boots.

Checks and Counters
========
**Electric resists*: Raikou's coverage moves does not hold up well against bulky Grass-, Dragon-, and Ground-type Pokemon. Grass-types can wear down Raikou quite easily and heal off any damage they received beforehand. Raikou struggles to break past Dragon-types, and in return it can be revenge killed or exploited for set-up opportunities. Lastly, Ground-types pose as a threat to Raikou, as they threaten to OHKO it quite easily if Raikou's coverage moves do not deal enough damage to defeat them.

**Special Walls**: Certain special walls can shrug off any attacks Raikou throws at them, and proceed to gradually chip it down or recover from the damage received. give some examples

**Faster Threats**: While Raikou has a good speed tier, it is prone to getting revenge killed by naturally faster pokemon such as Meowscarada, Iron Valiant, Iron Boulder, and Cinderace. In addition, Choice Scarf users like Urshifu-Single, Landorus-T, Infernape, and Zarude can easily outspeed and potentially knock out Raikou.

[credits]
Written by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/goldencyber.562690/
Quality checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/hacker.387847/
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/nyx.564960/
Grammar checked by:

QC 2/2 - few minor content edits. I would take a second to read over this for the tone though. A lot of it reads very textbooky/straight and to the point, this is a piece being written for a hobby and it feels too short and to the point at times. A few examples are the following


Neither of these are wrong at all, but it feels very robotic; you managed to hit the nail on the head tone wise with stuff like the boots section though, I'd try replicate that tone throughout

I'd read some uploaded pieces if you're struggling to find a tone that works, there's a line between robotic and excess fluff.

Thanks for bringing this to my attention. I made an attempt to fix the examples you provided, but I'm still not certain if I was able to strike a good balance between straightforward and fluff paragraphs.

I'll try to review other analyses to get the right tone for the next slate. If you want, you could look it over once more, before I pass this off to GP.

 

[GoldenCyber]

ready for GP

 

[SolarBeam]

1/1

trying to catch this thing in pokemon sleep rn

blue = add
red = remove
(orange) = comment

[overview]
**Draft Order**: Round 5 onwards

**Price Range**: 11-12 Points points

**Overview**: Raikou is a good offensive pivot with a solid Speed tier and access to useful coverage moves like Scald and Aura Sphere, and it can also function as a sweeper with Calm Mind. Furthermore, Raikou it can pivot around with Volt Switch to support teammates with momentum. Without However, without (want to contrast here, moving from strengths to weaknesses) a Calm Mind boost, Raikou lacks the offensive power to break past special walls. It also struggles against Grass- and Dragon-types, as it is prone to being worn down by them and lacks coverage options. Lastly, Raikou is overshadowed by other middle-tier special attackers for with a similar price range and better role compression.

[strategy comments]
Common Roles
========
**Setup Sweeper**: Raikou can create offensive pressure by setting up with Calm Mind alongside Substitute to take advantage of passive walls. It can use the necessary coverage at hand to deal with its checks and attempt to pull off a sweep. Raikou primarily requires the item Leftovers with Substitute to maintain longevity while setting up Calm Minds.

**Bulky Pivot**: Raikou has the well-rounded stats needed to run a bulky pivot set to check special attackers. This set takes some pressure off teammates having to deal with the aforementioned threats (RC) and Raikou can utilize Volt Switch to gain momentum throughout the game.

Common Moves
========
**Primary STAB Moves**: Thunderbolt, Discharge, Volt Switch

**Setup Moves**: Calm Mind

**Utility Moves**: Substitute, Thunder Wave, Roar

**Coverage**: Scald, Aura Sphere, Shadow Ball, Extrasensory

Niche Moves
========
**Charge Beam**: While this move is inferior to the more Calm Mind as a consistent setup option that is Calm Mind, it can prove useful on the pivot sets, (AC) with in which Raikou could can generate enough Special Attack boosts to wallbreak or sweep.

**Snarl**: Snarl allows Raikou to disrupt special attackers by crippling reducing their stat to take less damage Special Attack. This move also works when dealing with slower special sweepers that are slower, as their sweeping capabilities would continue to be are also hindered.

**Dual Screens**: In certain matchups where offensive Raikou would struggle struggles to make progress, it can support teammates further with Light Screen and Reflect. Raikou also has the option to pivot On this set, it often pivots out with Volt Switch to get momentum and position effectively for its sweepers. (making it clear what this has to do with dual screens- not really linked otherwise)

Common Items
========
**Heavy-Duty Boots**: Raikou is expected to enter the field multiple times as a to pivot (RC) or attempt to sweep with Calm Mind. With that said As such ("with that said" is more of a contradictory phrase, wrong implication), Heavy-Duty Boots is a useful item for preserving its health against entry hazards.

**Leftovers**: Leftovers grants Raikou passive recovery for Raikou, which is needed when attempting to sweep with a Substitute + Calm Mind set (RC) or attempting to Pressure stall with Substitute + Protect.

Niche Items
========
**Shuca Berry**: Since Raikou's only type weakness are Ground-types is Ground, this item can come in handy to give Raikou another turn to deal good damage back with Scald or another coverage move.

**Chesto Berry**: If Raikou is expected to withstand notable damage while attempting to sweep with Calm Mind, it can utilize Rest to heal off any chip damage it receives received beforehand (RC) and proceed to clean from there.

**Expert Belt**: Expert Belt gives a substantial boost to Raikou's coverage moves, granting it opportunities to get certain 2HKOes 2HKOs or OHKOes OHKOs ("OHKOes" is the verb, "OHKOs" is the plural noun) on opposing Pokemon that it would not be able to otherwise.

**Assault Vest**: Raikou can make the most use of its pivot role to serve as a soft check to special threats while attaining momentum for teammates with Volt Switch.

Tera
========
With Terastilization, (redundant) Raikou can make good use of certain Tera typings types to set up against its dedicated checks. Tera Flying or and Grass helps help with Raikou's Ground weakness. In addition, Tera Flying can also let Raikou take advantage of Grass-types and break past them with Tera Blast. Lastly, Tera Fairy can provide it with a coverage option and Dragon immunity against Dragon-types. While Raikou can utilize Terastallization quite well, it should be known that you lose out on the chance to draft use a high-tier (AH) Tera Captain by choosing it as one, which indicates means that you have to pick up an additional middle-tier (AH) Pokemon that can use Terastilization Terastallization alongside Raikou it. This opportunity cost could can weaken the offensive team structure in general structures, as only a few solid teams can use Tera Raikou with substantial success. Furthermore, there are also other Pokemon in a similar price range such as Moltres-Galar Galarian Moltres, Haxorus, Primarina, and Sandy Shocks (RC) that can serve as more suitable Tera Captains than Raikou.

Draft Strategy
========
Raikou should be picked up later in the draft (RC) and should be used on offensive or balance teams that would appreciate a fast special pivot that can generate momentum for them. It would be is advised to pair it with solid physical attackers like Garchomp and Meowscarada to handle Raikou's its checks, (AC) while in return, Raikou can get them these attackers on the field with Volt Switch.

**Other Pivots**: Raikou appreciates teammates that can compliment complement its own pivoting role and generate create a VoltTurn core. This can greatly support other wallbreakers and sweepers, and having more pivots can give Raikou an opportunity to run a wallbreaking or sweeping set.

**Physical Wallbreakers**: Raikou lacks the damage output to break past special walls; (replaced comma with semicolon) therefore, (AC) having physical wallbreakers to come in after a Volt Switch and heavily weaken them is highly valued.

**Entry Hazard Control**: Raikou appreciates good entry hazard setters such as Garchomp, Greninja, Ting-Lu, and Glimmora to accumulate chip damage on special walls, enabling Raikou it to get multiple 2HKOes 2HKOs on them. It is also recommended to pair Raikou with Pokemon that can remove hazards. Several good examples would be are Great Tusk, Corviknight, Iron Treads, and Scizor. Without proper hazard control, Raikou's pivoting role will be is limited without the use of using Heavy-Duty Boots.

Checks and Counters
========
**Electric resists Electric-resistant Pokemon**: Raikou's coverage moves does do not hold up well against bulky Grass-, Dragon-, and Ground-type Pokemon. Grass-types can wear it down Raikou quite easily and heal off any damage they received beforehand receive. Raikou also struggles to break past Dragon-types, and in return, (AC) it can be revenge killed or exploited for setup (RH) opportunities. Lastly, Ground-types pose as a threat to Raikou, as they threaten to OHKO it quite easily if Raikou's its coverage moves do not deal enough damage to defeat them.

**Special Walls**: Certain special walls like Ting-Lu, Slowking-Galar Galarian Slowking, Hydrapple, and Clodsire can shrug off any attacks Raikou throws at them (RC) and proceed to gradually chip it down or recover from the damage received.

**Faster Threats**: While Raikou has a good speed Speed tier, it is prone to getting revenge killed by naturally faster pokemon such as Meowscarada, Iron Valiant, Iron Boulder, and Cinderace. In addition, Choice Scarf users like Urshifu-Single, Landorus-T, Infernape, and Zarude can easily outspeed and potentially knock out Raikou KO it.

[credits]
Written by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/goldencyber.562690/
Quality checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/hacker.387847/
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/nyx.564960/
Grammar checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/solarbeam.470115/

 

[GoldenCyber]

1/1

trying to catch this thing in pokemon sleep rn

blue = add
red = remove
(orange) = comment

[overview]
**Draft Order**: Round 5 onwards

**Price Range**: 11-12 Points points

**Overview**: Raikou is a good offensive pivot with a solid Speed tier and access to useful coverage moves like Scald and Aura Sphere, and it can also function as a sweeper with Calm Mind. Furthermore, Raikou it can pivot around with Volt Switch to support teammates with momentum. Without However, without (want to contrast here, moving from strengths to weaknesses) a Calm Mind boost, Raikou lacks the offensive power to break past special walls. It also struggles against Grass- and Dragon-types, as it is prone to being worn down by them and lacks coverage options. Lastly, Raikou is overshadowed by other middle-tier special attackers for with a similar price range and better role compression.

[strategy comments]
Common Roles
========
**Setup Sweeper**: Raikou can create offensive pressure by setting up with Calm Mind alongside Substitute to take advantage of passive walls. It can use the necessary coverage at hand to deal with its checks and attempt to pull off a sweep. Raikou primarily requires the item Leftovers with Substitute to maintain longevity while setting up Calm Minds.

**Bulky Pivot**: Raikou has the well-rounded stats needed to run a bulky pivot set to check special attackers. This set takes some pressure off teammates having to deal with the aforementioned threats (RC) and Raikou can utilize Volt Switch to gain momentum throughout the game.

Common Moves
========
**Primary STAB Moves**: Thunderbolt, Discharge, Volt Switch

**Setup Moves**: Calm Mind

**Utility Moves**: Substitute, Thunder Wave, Roar

**Coverage**: Scald, Aura Sphere, Shadow Ball, Extrasensory

Niche Moves
========
**Charge Beam**: While this move is inferior to the more Calm Mind as a consistent setup option that is Calm Mind, it can prove useful on the pivot sets, (AC) with in which Raikou could can generate enough Special Attack boosts to wallbreak or sweep.

**Snarl**: Snarl allows Raikou to disrupt special attackers by crippling reducing their stat to take less damage Special Attack. This move also works when dealing with slower special sweepers that are slower, as their sweeping capabilities would continue to be are also hindered.

**Dual Screens**: In certain matchups where offensive Raikou would struggle struggles to make progress, it can support teammates further with Light Screen and Reflect. Raikou also has the option to pivot On this set, it often pivots out with Volt Switch to get momentum and position effectively for its sweepers. (making it clear what this has to do with dual screens- not really linked otherwise)

Common Items
========
**Heavy-Duty Boots**: Raikou is expected to enter the field multiple times as a to pivot (RC) or attempt to sweep with Calm Mind. With that said As such ("with that said" is more of a contradictory phrase, wrong implication), Heavy-Duty Boots is a useful item for preserving its health against entry hazards.

**Leftovers**: Leftovers grants Raikou passive recovery for Raikou, which is needed when attempting to sweep with a Substitute + Calm Mind set (RC) or attempting to Pressure stall with Substitute + Protect.

Niche Items
========
**Shuca Berry**: Since Raikou's only type weakness are Ground-types is Ground, this item can come in handy to give Raikou another turn to deal good damage back with Scald or another coverage move.

**Chesto Berry**: If Raikou is expected to withstand notable damage while attempting to sweep with Calm Mind, it can utilize Rest to heal off any chip damage it receives received beforehand (RC) and proceed to clean from there.

**Expert Belt**: Expert Belt gives a substantial boost to Raikou's coverage moves, granting it opportunities to get certain 2HKOes 2HKOs or OHKOes OHKOs ("OHKOes" is the verb, "OHKOs" is the plural noun) on opposing Pokemon that it would not be able to otherwise.

**Assault Vest**: Raikou can make the most use of its pivot role to serve as a soft check to special threats while attaining momentum for teammates with Volt Switch.

Tera
========
With Terastilization, (redundant) Raikou can make good use of certain Tera typings types to set up against its dedicated checks. Tera Flying or and Grass helps help with Raikou's Ground weakness. In addition, Tera Flying can also let Raikou take advantage of Grass-types and break past them with Tera Blast. Lastly, Tera Fairy can provide it with a coverage option and Dragon immunity against Dragon-types. While Raikou can utilize Terastallization quite well, it should be known that you lose out on the chance to draft use a high-tier (AH) Tera Captain by choosing it as one, which indicates means that you have to pick up an additional middle-tier (AH) Pokemon that can use Terastilization Terastallization alongside Raikou it. This opportunity cost could can weaken the offensive team structure in general structures, as only a few solid teams can use Tera Raikou with substantial success. Furthermore, there are also other Pokemon in a similar price range such as Moltres-Galar Galarian Moltres, Haxorus, Primarina, and Sandy Shocks (RC) that can serve as more suitable Tera Captains than Raikou.

Draft Strategy
========
Raikou should be picked up later in the draft (RC) and should be used on offensive or balance teams that would appreciate a fast special pivot that can generate momentum for them. It would be is advised to pair it with solid physical attackers like Garchomp and Meowscarada to handle Raikou's its checks, (AC) while in return, Raikou can get them these attackers on the field with Volt Switch.

**Other Pivots**: Raikou appreciates teammates that can compliment complement its own pivoting role and generate create a VoltTurn core. This can greatly support other wallbreakers and sweepers, and having more pivots can give Raikou an opportunity to run a wallbreaking or sweeping set.

**Physical Wallbreakers**: Raikou lacks the damage output to break past special walls; (replaced comma with semicolon) therefore, (AC) having physical wallbreakers to come in after a Volt Switch and heavily weaken them is highly valued.

**Entry Hazard Control**: Raikou appreciates good entry hazard setters such as Garchomp, Greninja, Ting-Lu, and Glimmora to accumulate chip damage on special walls, enabling Raikou it to get multiple 2HKOes 2HKOs on them. It is also recommended to pair Raikou with Pokemon that can remove hazards. Several good examples would be are Great Tusk, Corviknight, Iron Treads, and Scizor. Without proper hazard control, Raikou's pivoting role will be is limited without the use of using Heavy-Duty Boots.

Checks and Counters
========
**Electric resists Electric-resistant Pokemon**: Raikou's coverage moves does do not hold up well against bulky Grass-, Dragon-, and Ground-type Pokemon. Grass-types can wear it down Raikou quite easily and heal off any damage they received beforehand receive. Raikou also struggles to break past Dragon-types, and in return, (AC) it can be revenge killed or exploited for setup (RH) opportunities. Lastly, Ground-types pose as a threat to Raikou, as they threaten to OHKO it quite easily if Raikou's its coverage moves do not deal enough damage to defeat them.

**Special Walls**: Certain special walls like Ting-Lu, Slowking-Galar Galarian Slowking, Hydrapple, and Clodsire can shrug off any attacks Raikou throws at them (RC) and proceed to gradually chip it down or recover from the damage received.

**Faster Threats**: While Raikou has a good speed Speed tier, it is prone to getting revenge killed by naturally faster pokemon such as Meowscarada, Iron Valiant, Iron Boulder, and Cinderace. In addition, Choice Scarf users like Urshifu-Single, Landorus-T, Infernape, and Zarude can easily outspeed and potentially knock out Raikou KO it.

[credits]
Written by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/goldencyber.562690/
Quality checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/hacker.387847/
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/nyx.564960/
Grammar checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/solarbeam.470115/

Done!

 

[Hacker]

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