Ok, this is ready for GP.
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Rayquaza [GP 2/2]
- Thread starter SuperWumbology
- Start date
- Status
Thugly Duckling
I play TCG now
I think DTail needs a mention in either the Mixquaza set or OO; it scouts switch-ins, racks hazard damage, and hits decently hard off of Ray's 150 base Attack + STAB. Niche move in general, it offers unique support in allowing Rayquaza to be a phazer and a wallbreaker at the same time; but in general, is less consistent than EQ and leaves it walled by certain mons such as Klefki, Jirachi, and Bronzong.
PISTOLERO
I come to bury Caesar, not to praise him.
Dragon Tail also allows Rayquaza to be more effective against Lugia + Mega Sableye teams, as it is fairly hard to use Rayquaza to break those kinds of teams with Stealth Rock being fairly difficult to keep on the field - instead of Dragon Ascenting into an incoming Multiscale Lugia, you can break the Multiscale with Dragon Tail and then 2HKO it with Dragon Ascent the next time it tries to switch in.
Other miscellaneous uses are phazing away Arceus-Ghost that tries to set up on Rayquaza with Will-O-Wisp and Calm Mind, and pushing Arceus-Rock nearer to the range of being sniped by Earthquake or Earthquake + Extremespeed should you catch it on the switchin. If i were to use Dragon Tail, it would probably be instead of Draco Meteor.
Other miscellaneous uses are phazing away Arceus-Ghost that tries to set up on Rayquaza with Will-O-Wisp and Calm Mind, and pushing Arceus-Rock nearer to the range of being sniped by Earthquake or Earthquake + Extremespeed should you catch it on the switchin. If i were to use Dragon Tail, it would probably be instead of Draco Meteor.
amcheck
very well written :)
Goddess Briyella tell me what i did wrong
edit: fuck why did it all go blue
very well written :)
Additions
Deletions
Comments
Overview
########
Rayquaza has gained many new abilities upon returning to his it home of yore in ORAS. Having been bestowed its own signature move, Dragon Ascent, Rayquaza can nuke (I would recommend a different word) much more efficiently without relying on the reliance of V-create, something it very well greatly appreciates. Air Lock has also gotten a buff, being able to quell Desolate Land and Primordial Sea, something which is valuable for teams who need a soft check to both Primal Groudon and Primal Kyogre. As a wallbreaker, Rayquaza is more than happy to help the whole new slew of Mega Evolutions, particularly Mega Salamence, giving it them more opportunities to fill up a teamslots (this phrase references the mega evolutions in general and not salamence in particular). Another unseen boon for Rayquaza is that most of its original checks and counters have decreased dramatically in usefulness due to the addition of Primal Reversion, letting it rip through teams all the easier. However, most of Rayquaza's old flaws are still noticeable.(AP) Most notably,(AC) is its Stealth Rock weakness coupled with its iffy overall bulk,(RC) leaving leaves it prone to being revenge killed. Furthermore, its Speed stat is relatively mediocre, leaving it outsped by a multitude of offensive threats such as the Eon twins Latias, Latios, and the base 100 Speed tier. On the contrary However, don't discount Rayquaza's power for a second, for it could be your team's last flight of glory.
MixQuaza
########
name: MixQuaza
move 1: Draco Meteor
move 2: Earthquake / Fire Blast
move 3: Dragon Ascent
move 4: Extremespeed Extreme Speed / Earthquake
ability: Air Lock
item: Life Orb
evs: 252 Atk / 40 SpA / 216 Spe
nature: Naive
Moves
========
Draco Meteor is what makes MixQuaza what it is, and is as it is still all the deadly against physical walls, support Arceus, and even Primal Groudon, smacking them for massive damage. Earthquake rounds out the coverage with Dragon Ascent, hitting Aegislash, Klefki, and Heatran hard, in addition to having massive super-effective targets (what does this mean?). Fire Blast is also a nice choice over Earthquake if Skarmory, Bronzong, Ferrothorn, and Scizor are major hindrances to a sweeper on Rayquaza's team. Dragon Ascent, along with Draco Meteor,(RC) is Rayquaza's obligatory STAB move, and provides a physical nuke strong physical attack(i just don't like the use of nuke) for Rayquaza to utilize alongside Draco Meteor. Extremespeed Extreme Speed is a very helpful tool against offensive teams if revenge killing is lacking on Rayquaza's team, at the cost of losing a coverage move for stall or balance teams.
Set Details
========
The above EV spread provides the ability to outspeed postive positive-natured base 90's, of which include including both Groudon and Kyogre, while donating some power to Special Attack to boost Draco Meteor 's power (flow). However, the Special Attack EVs and Attack EVs can be flipped to do more damage with Draco Meteor to snipe bulky Primal Groudon and support Arceus formes, at the cost of decreasing Dragon Ascent's nuking potential power. A Naughty or Rash nature can also be utilized for extra power, since it gets outsped by support Arceus formes anyway while being naturally faster than other walls it can break.
Usage Tips
========
Rayquaza is first and foremost a wallbreaker, so smash down walls when you get the chance and pave the way for a sweeper. However, a crucial factor when playing MixQuaza is watching its HP bar from Life Orb recoil, something that leaves it open to being revenge killed by the base 100 or higher Speed tier if it gets too low, so try to keep Rayquaza healthy by the occasional double switch or pivoting with other team members. Also, don't feel too pressured to choose between using Dragon Ascent and Draco Meteor, as neither completely force you out and both 2HKO most of the metagame anyway, taking a nice chunk out of tanks and walls.
Team Options
========
If the team's mega slot is open, Mega Salamence is without a doubt one of Rayquaza's best partners, since the two apply ludicrous offensive pressure on multiple team archetypes, though the two have little defensive synergy. Stealth Rock support is also a major factor of Rayquaza's overall success as a wallbreaker, as Stealth Rock breaks Lugia's Multiscale; Primal Groudon, Dialga, and Landorus-T are great examples of this partners for MixQuaza, as they can set up Stealth Rock with ease. In order to give opportunities for Rayquaza to come in safely, users of Volt Switch and U-turn, such as Genesect, Thundurus, and Mega Scizor,(AC) can (don't think we need this word now) allow Rayquaza to come in on a switch and likely snag a KO. Defog users such as the Eon twins Latias, Latios, Giratina-O, and Arceus can remove Stealth Rock for Rayquaza, relieving the pressure of losing a quarter of its health every time it switches in. Mega Gengar can cripple support Arceus formes with Taunt, giving an opportunity for Rayquaza to come in on them without fearing a stray Will-O-Wisp, and can also trap and KO faster revenge killers that can threaten Rayquaza.
Dance Dance Rayvolution
########
name: Dance Dance Rayvolution
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Dragon Ascent
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Extremespeed Extreme Speed / Dragon Dance
ability: Air Lock
item: Life Orb
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
nature: Adamant / Jolly
Moves
========
Swords Dance turns Rayquaza into an extremely powerful wallbreaker in a single turn, and absolutely smashes walls when combined with Dragon Ascent. Earthquake is extremely potent with Dragon Ascent in terms of coverage, hitting Aegislash, Heatran, Klefki, and Rock Arceus where it hurts. Extremespeed Extreme Speed specifically functions as a backup revenge killer against offensive teams, and it can even OHKO most frail offensive Pokemon after a single Swords Dance, such as Darkrai. However, Dragon Dance is a viable alternative to Extremespeed to be more flexible against offense, something that Swords Dance lacks. V-create can also be used over Extremespeed Extreme Speed or Earthquake if Steel-types such as Scizor, Skarmory, Bronzong, and Ferrothorn are of concern to Rayquaza's team.
Set Details
========
Max Attack and Speed EVs are imperative for Rayquaza's wallbreaking efficiency, and an Adamant nature maximizes Rayquaza's power output with Swords Dance and/or Dragon Dance. However, a Jolly nature is an acceptable alternative to Adamant in order to outspeed positive-natured base 90's and specific spreads of Lugia if needed. The 4 EVs in Special Defense give Genesect an Attack boost from Download, giving it an incentive to use U-turn instead of Ice Beam, lowering the risk of Rayquaza being revenge killed.
Usage Tips
========
If Dragon Dance is used over Extremespeed Extreme Speed, boost appropriately with either Dragon Dance to clean offensive teams, or Swords Dance to wallbreak balance and stall respectively. Given the possibility that Extremespeed Extreme Speed is used instead, don't attempt to clean with it unless the opponent's team is sufficiently weakened; Dragon Ascent is Rayquaza's most powerful attack, so use it as such. Also, Dragon Ascent doesn't always force Rayquaza out like V-create does, as Dragon Ascent only lowers Rayquaza's defenses , but be wary of Rayquaza's HP bar and possible Choice Scarf carriers or revenge killers after Dragon Ascent has been used.
Team Options
========
Mega Salamence is one of the best teammates to Rayquaza in general, as both can put extreme amounts of pressure on the opposing team's walls, at the cost of not offering that much defensively to the team and having difficulty switching with each other. Primal Groudon is also a solid support partner for Rayquaza, as it can set up Stealth Rock and can run Fire Punch to cover Skarmory and Scizor for Rayquaza. Other Stealth Rock users such as Landorus-T, Dialga, and Ferrothorn also assist Rayquaza in wallbreaking or cleaning with either Swords Dance or Dragon Dance. Klefki in particular also has great type synergy with Rayquaza, in addition to checking the Eon twins Latias, Latios, support Arceus, and Xerneas, along with Spikes support. Volt Switch or U-turn support from Pokemon such as Mega Scizor or Thundurus can bring in Rayquaza safely on a predicted switch while keeping its health in pristine condition. Defog users such as the Eon twins Latias, Latios, Giratina-O, and Arceus also help out Rayquaza in coming in on a Stealth Rock-free field, and Latias can help bring back Rayquaza's HP and remove a possible status condition with Healing Wish. Mega Gengar can trap support Arceus formes or suicide itself against non-Scarfed revenge killers, lessening the threat of having Rayquaza picked off.
Choice Band
########
name: Choice Band
move 1: Dragon Ascent
move 2: Earthquake
move 3: V-create
move 4: Extremespeed Extreme Speed
ability: Air Lock
item: Choice Band
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
nature: Adamant / Jolly
Moves
========
Choice Banded Dragon Ascent is the main draw of this set, nearly annihilating anything other than dedicated physical walls such as Lugia and support Arceus formes. Earthquake can also cover grounded Steel-types and Primal Groudon without resorting to Dragon Ascent, in addition to rounding out the majority of Rayquaza's coverage. V-Create incinerates the targets that Earthquake can't, which include Skarmory, Scizor, and the occasional Genesect. Extremespeed Extreme Speed is also very threatening with a Choice Band, cleanly 2HKOing speedy attackers such as Shaymin-S, Darkrai, and even having a chance to 2HKO Mega Mewtwo X after Stealth Rock. Waterfall is a possible choice over V-create or Extremespeed to immediately OHKO Primal Groudon with little to no risk, and it can deal with Landorus-T and Hippowdon without using Dragon Ascent or V-create.
Set Details
========
An Adamant nature maximizes Choice Band's power and makes Dragon Ascent hit as hard as it can get unboosted. A Jolly nature can also be an option to outspeed positive-natured base 90's, Speed tie max Speed Kyurem-W, and outcreep Lugia. Maximum Attack and Speed EVs assist all of the aforementioned attributes, letting Rayquaza be as powerful and as fast as possible.
Usage Tips
========
Locking into Dragon Ascent isn't as reckless a move as one would think, as even resisted hits do savage amounts of damage. V-create and Earthquake on the other hand need to be used wisely and sparingly, as a single V-create will force you out after a Speed drop, while Earthquake can be taken advantage of by Flying-types or levitating Steel-types. Also, the lack of Life Orb recoil is very nice for Rayquaza's efficiency, but still pay attention to Rayquaza's health, especially if Stealth Rock is up on Rayquaza's side of the field. Extremespeed is a very deceiving move in terms of power; if the opposing team is weak enough, cleaning up with Choice Banded Extremespeed is a cinch, but don't attempt to clean early-game with this Rayquaza variant, as the boosting wallbreaker set does this much better.
Team Options
========
Mega Salamence is a solid partner to Rayquaza, especially since Rayquaza can run all of its coverage options, so both can wallbreak whatever they wish while exhuming a large amount of offensive pressure. Primal Groudon and other Stealth Rock setters such as Dialga and Landorus-T can help Rayquaza seize some OHKOs on frailer Pokemon with Extremespeed Extreme Speed or 2HKO Lugia with Dragon Ascent. Klefki also provides solid type synergy and Spikes support, letting Rayquaza wreck support Arceus formes with a single Dragon Ascent. Defog users such as the Eon twins Latias, Latios, Giratina-O, and Arceus let Rayquaza worry little about residual damage as a whole, letting it spam Dragon Ascent to its heart's content. Mega Gengar can trap and KO support Arceus and other Pokemon faster than Rayquaza, which can safeguard Rayquaza from a Will-O-Wisp out of the left field. (the phrase is "out of left field")
Other Options
########
Rayquaza's movepool and item choices are relatively straightforward, but there are some options for those who wish to go off the beaten path. Tailwind is a devious support move for Rayquaza, and can be used on the boosting wallbreaking set to either clean or help a sweeper, at the cost of not increasing Rayquaza's power in any way. Dragon Claw or and Outrage are also acceptable STAB moves to use, but their targets and objectives are mostly overshadowed by Dragon Ascent. Iron Tail can immediately dent Fairy-types and Rock Arceus without using Earthquake, but the accuracy and coverage of this move is very poor. Surf is an optional coverage move on MixQuaza to immediately OHKO Primal Groudon, but it overlaps with Draco Meteor in terms of utility.
Choice Scarf Rayquaza can be very useful for revenge killing with Dragon Ascent, but the lack of power is extremely glaring when using it. Lum Berry can also help Rayquaza shake off a burn or paralysis immediately, but it also has a large lack of power that Life Orb or Choice Band offers. Focus Sash makes Rayquaza function as an anti-lead, limiting most dedicated leads to a single layer of hazards, but power is everything when Rayquaza is involved, and Focus Sash restricts Rayquaza's role as a wallbreaker.
Checks & Counters
########
**Lugia**: Lugia can take any hit Rayquaza has to offer and either force it out with Whirlwind or 2HKO it with Ice Beam. However, Rayquaza can 2HKO Lugia after Stealth Rock with Dragon Ascent, and Lugia absolutely needs Multiscale to check Rayquaza.
**Support Arceus**: Support Arceus formes such as Rock and Fairy can outspeed Rayquaza and either cripple it with Will-O-Wisp or outright KO it with a super-effective Judgment. MixQuaza can bypass the burn and 2HKO most support Arceus formes with Draco Meteor and Dragon Ascent, leaving only the aforementioned formes as the most effective checks.
**Primal Groudon**: Though it does not like particularly taking any hit Rayquaza has to offer, Primal Groudon can immediately threaten to OHKO Rayquaza with Stone Edge, cripple it with Lava Plume, or set up Stealth Rock as Rayquaza gets forced out, discouraging it from switching back in.
**Revenge Killers**: Due to Rayquaza's average bulk, faster Pokemon such as Darkrai, Mewtwo, Mega Gengar, Latios, Latias, Palkia, and Choice Scarf Genesect can outspeed and OHKO Rayquaza with the right coverage move. None of these Pokemon can switch into Rayquaza safely, however.
Deletions
Comments
Overview
########
Rayquaza has gained many new abilities upon returning to his it home of yore in ORAS. Having been bestowed its own signature move, Dragon Ascent, Rayquaza can nuke (I would recommend a different word) much more efficiently without relying on the reliance of V-create, something it very well greatly appreciates. Air Lock has also gotten a buff, being able to quell Desolate Land and Primordial Sea, something which is valuable for teams who need a soft check to both Primal Groudon and Primal Kyogre. As a wallbreaker, Rayquaza is more than happy to help the whole new slew of Mega Evolutions, particularly Mega Salamence, giving it them more opportunities to fill up a teamslots (this phrase references the mega evolutions in general and not salamence in particular). Another unseen boon for Rayquaza is that most of its original checks and counters have decreased dramatically in usefulness due to the addition of Primal Reversion, letting it rip through teams all the easier. However, most of Rayquaza's old flaws are still noticeable.(AP) Most notably,(AC) is its Stealth Rock weakness coupled with its iffy overall bulk,(RC) leaving leaves it prone to being revenge killed. Furthermore, its Speed stat is relatively mediocre, leaving it outsped by a multitude of offensive threats such as the Eon twins Latias, Latios, and the base 100 Speed tier. On the contrary However, don't discount Rayquaza's power for a second, for it could be your team's last flight of glory.
MixQuaza
########
name: MixQuaza
move 1: Draco Meteor
move 2: Earthquake / Fire Blast
move 3: Dragon Ascent
move 4: Extremespeed Extreme Speed / Earthquake
ability: Air Lock
item: Life Orb
evs: 252 Atk / 40 SpA / 216 Spe
nature: Naive
Moves
========
Draco Meteor is what makes MixQuaza what it is, and is as it is still all the deadly against physical walls, support Arceus, and even Primal Groudon, smacking them for massive damage. Earthquake rounds out the coverage with Dragon Ascent, hitting Aegislash, Klefki, and Heatran hard, in addition to having massive super-effective targets (what does this mean?). Fire Blast is also a nice choice over Earthquake if Skarmory, Bronzong, Ferrothorn, and Scizor are major hindrances to a sweeper on Rayquaza's team. Dragon Ascent, along with Draco Meteor,(RC) is Rayquaza's obligatory STAB move, and provides a physical nuke strong physical attack(i just don't like the use of nuke) for Rayquaza to utilize alongside Draco Meteor. Extremespeed Extreme Speed is a very helpful tool against offensive teams if revenge killing is lacking on Rayquaza's team, at the cost of losing a coverage move for stall or balance teams.
Set Details
========
The above EV spread provides the ability to outspeed postive positive-natured base 90's, of which include including both Groudon and Kyogre, while donating some power to Special Attack to boost Draco Meteor 's power (flow). However, the Special Attack EVs and Attack EVs can be flipped to do more damage with Draco Meteor to snipe bulky Primal Groudon and support Arceus formes, at the cost of decreasing Dragon Ascent's nuking potential power. A Naughty or Rash nature can also be utilized for extra power, since it gets outsped by support Arceus formes anyway while being naturally faster than other walls it can break.
Usage Tips
========
Rayquaza is first and foremost a wallbreaker, so smash down walls when you get the chance and pave the way for a sweeper. However, a crucial factor when playing MixQuaza is watching its HP bar from Life Orb recoil, something that leaves it open to being revenge killed by the base 100 or higher Speed tier if it gets too low, so try to keep Rayquaza healthy by the occasional double switch or pivoting with other team members. Also, don't feel too pressured to choose between using Dragon Ascent and Draco Meteor, as neither completely force you out and both 2HKO most of the metagame anyway, taking a nice chunk out of tanks and walls.
Team Options
========
If the team's mega slot is open, Mega Salamence is without a doubt one of Rayquaza's best partners, since the two apply ludicrous offensive pressure on multiple team archetypes, though the two have little defensive synergy. Stealth Rock support is also a major factor of Rayquaza's overall success as a wallbreaker, as Stealth Rock breaks Lugia's Multiscale; Primal Groudon, Dialga, and Landorus-T are great examples of this partners for MixQuaza, as they can set up Stealth Rock with ease. In order to give opportunities for Rayquaza to come in safely, users of Volt Switch and U-turn, such as Genesect, Thundurus, and Mega Scizor,(AC) can (don't think we need this word now) allow Rayquaza to come in on a switch and likely snag a KO. Defog users such as the Eon twins Latias, Latios, Giratina-O, and Arceus can remove Stealth Rock for Rayquaza, relieving the pressure of losing a quarter of its health every time it switches in. Mega Gengar can cripple support Arceus formes with Taunt, giving an opportunity for Rayquaza to come in on them without fearing a stray Will-O-Wisp, and can also trap and KO faster revenge killers that can threaten Rayquaza.
Dance Dance Rayvolution
########
name: Dance Dance Rayvolution
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Dragon Ascent
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Extremespeed Extreme Speed / Dragon Dance
ability: Air Lock
item: Life Orb
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
nature: Adamant / Jolly
Moves
========
Swords Dance turns Rayquaza into an extremely powerful wallbreaker in a single turn, and absolutely smashes walls when combined with Dragon Ascent. Earthquake is extremely potent with Dragon Ascent in terms of coverage, hitting Aegislash, Heatran, Klefki, and Rock Arceus where it hurts. Extremespeed Extreme Speed specifically functions as a backup revenge killer against offensive teams, and it can even OHKO most frail offensive Pokemon after a single Swords Dance, such as Darkrai. However, Dragon Dance is a viable alternative to Extremespeed to be more flexible against offense, something that Swords Dance lacks. V-create can also be used over Extremespeed Extreme Speed or Earthquake if Steel-types such as Scizor, Skarmory, Bronzong, and Ferrothorn are of concern to Rayquaza's team.
Set Details
========
Max Attack and Speed EVs are imperative for Rayquaza's wallbreaking efficiency, and an Adamant nature maximizes Rayquaza's power output with Swords Dance and/or Dragon Dance. However, a Jolly nature is an acceptable alternative to Adamant in order to outspeed positive-natured base 90's and specific spreads of Lugia if needed. The 4 EVs in Special Defense give Genesect an Attack boost from Download, giving it an incentive to use U-turn instead of Ice Beam, lowering the risk of Rayquaza being revenge killed.
Usage Tips
========
If Dragon Dance is used over Extremespeed Extreme Speed, boost appropriately with either Dragon Dance to clean offensive teams, or Swords Dance to wallbreak balance and stall respectively. Given the possibility that Extremespeed Extreme Speed is used instead, don't attempt to clean with it unless the opponent's team is sufficiently weakened; Dragon Ascent is Rayquaza's most powerful attack, so use it as such. Also, Dragon Ascent doesn't always force Rayquaza out like V-create does, as Dragon Ascent only lowers Rayquaza's defenses , but be wary of Rayquaza's HP bar and possible Choice Scarf carriers or revenge killers after Dragon Ascent has been used.
Team Options
========
Mega Salamence is one of the best teammates to Rayquaza in general, as both can put extreme amounts of pressure on the opposing team's walls, at the cost of not offering that much defensively to the team and having difficulty switching with each other. Primal Groudon is also a solid support partner for Rayquaza, as it can set up Stealth Rock and can run Fire Punch to cover Skarmory and Scizor for Rayquaza. Other Stealth Rock users such as Landorus-T, Dialga, and Ferrothorn also assist Rayquaza in wallbreaking or cleaning with either Swords Dance or Dragon Dance. Klefki in particular also has great type synergy with Rayquaza, in addition to checking the Eon twins Latias, Latios, support Arceus, and Xerneas, along with Spikes support. Volt Switch or U-turn support from Pokemon such as Mega Scizor or Thundurus can bring in Rayquaza safely on a predicted switch while keeping its health in pristine condition. Defog users such as the Eon twins Latias, Latios, Giratina-O, and Arceus also help out Rayquaza in coming in on a Stealth Rock-free field, and Latias can help bring back Rayquaza's HP and remove a possible status condition with Healing Wish. Mega Gengar can trap support Arceus formes or suicide itself against non-Scarfed revenge killers, lessening the threat of having Rayquaza picked off.
Choice Band
########
name: Choice Band
move 1: Dragon Ascent
move 2: Earthquake
move 3: V-create
move 4: Extremespeed Extreme Speed
ability: Air Lock
item: Choice Band
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
nature: Adamant / Jolly
Moves
========
Choice Banded Dragon Ascent is the main draw of this set, nearly annihilating anything other than dedicated physical walls such as Lugia and support Arceus formes. Earthquake can also cover grounded Steel-types and Primal Groudon without resorting to Dragon Ascent, in addition to rounding out the majority of Rayquaza's coverage. V-Create incinerates the targets that Earthquake can't, which include Skarmory, Scizor, and the occasional Genesect. Extremespeed Extreme Speed is also very threatening with a Choice Band, cleanly 2HKOing speedy attackers such as Shaymin-S, Darkrai, and even having a chance to 2HKO Mega Mewtwo X after Stealth Rock. Waterfall is a possible choice over V-create or Extremespeed to immediately OHKO Primal Groudon with little to no risk, and it can deal with Landorus-T and Hippowdon without using Dragon Ascent or V-create.
Set Details
========
An Adamant nature maximizes Choice Band's power and makes Dragon Ascent hit as hard as it can get unboosted. A Jolly nature can also be an option to outspeed positive-natured base 90's, Speed tie max Speed Kyurem-W, and outcreep Lugia. Maximum Attack and Speed EVs assist all of the aforementioned attributes, letting Rayquaza be as powerful and as fast as possible.
Usage Tips
========
Locking into Dragon Ascent isn't as reckless a move as one would think, as even resisted hits do savage amounts of damage. V-create and Earthquake on the other hand need to be used wisely and sparingly, as a single V-create will force you out after a Speed drop, while Earthquake can be taken advantage of by Flying-types or levitating Steel-types. Also, the lack of Life Orb recoil is very nice for Rayquaza's efficiency, but still pay attention to Rayquaza's health, especially if Stealth Rock is up on Rayquaza's side of the field. Extremespeed is a very deceiving move in terms of power; if the opposing team is weak enough, cleaning up with Choice Banded Extremespeed is a cinch, but don't attempt to clean early-game with this Rayquaza variant, as the boosting wallbreaker set does this much better.
Team Options
========
Mega Salamence is a solid partner to Rayquaza, especially since Rayquaza can run all of its coverage options, so both can wallbreak whatever they wish while exhuming a large amount of offensive pressure. Primal Groudon and other Stealth Rock setters such as Dialga and Landorus-T can help Rayquaza seize some OHKOs on frailer Pokemon with Extremespeed Extreme Speed or 2HKO Lugia with Dragon Ascent. Klefki also provides solid type synergy and Spikes support, letting Rayquaza wreck support Arceus formes with a single Dragon Ascent. Defog users such as the Eon twins Latias, Latios, Giratina-O, and Arceus let Rayquaza worry little about residual damage as a whole, letting it spam Dragon Ascent to its heart's content. Mega Gengar can trap and KO support Arceus and other Pokemon faster than Rayquaza, which can safeguard Rayquaza from a Will-O-Wisp out of the left field. (the phrase is "out of left field")
Other Options
########
Rayquaza's movepool and item choices are relatively straightforward, but there are some options for those who wish to go off the beaten path. Tailwind is a devious support move for Rayquaza, and can be used on the boosting wallbreaking set to either clean or help a sweeper, at the cost of not increasing Rayquaza's power in any way. Dragon Claw or and Outrage are also acceptable STAB moves to use, but their targets and objectives are mostly overshadowed by Dragon Ascent. Iron Tail can immediately dent Fairy-types and Rock Arceus without using Earthquake, but the accuracy and coverage of this move is very poor. Surf is an optional coverage move on MixQuaza to immediately OHKO Primal Groudon, but it overlaps with Draco Meteor in terms of utility.
Choice Scarf Rayquaza can be very useful for revenge killing with Dragon Ascent, but the lack of power is extremely glaring when using it. Lum Berry can also help Rayquaza shake off a burn or paralysis immediately, but it also has a large lack of power that Life Orb or Choice Band offers. Focus Sash makes Rayquaza function as an anti-lead, limiting most dedicated leads to a single layer of hazards, but power is everything when Rayquaza is involved, and Focus Sash restricts Rayquaza's role as a wallbreaker.
Checks & Counters
########
**Lugia**: Lugia can take any hit Rayquaza has to offer and either force it out with Whirlwind or 2HKO it with Ice Beam. However, Rayquaza can 2HKO Lugia after Stealth Rock with Dragon Ascent, and Lugia absolutely needs Multiscale to check Rayquaza.
**Support Arceus**: Support Arceus formes such as Rock and Fairy can outspeed Rayquaza and either cripple it with Will-O-Wisp or outright KO it with a super-effective Judgment. MixQuaza can bypass the burn and 2HKO most support Arceus formes with Draco Meteor and Dragon Ascent, leaving only the aforementioned formes as the most effective checks.
**Primal Groudon**: Though it does not like particularly taking any hit Rayquaza has to offer, Primal Groudon can immediately threaten to OHKO Rayquaza with Stone Edge, cripple it with Lava Plume, or set up Stealth Rock as Rayquaza gets forced out, discouraging it from switching back in.
**Revenge Killers**: Due to Rayquaza's average bulk, faster Pokemon such as Darkrai, Mewtwo, Mega Gengar, Latios, Latias, Palkia, and Choice Scarf Genesect can outspeed and OHKO Rayquaza with the right coverage move. None of these Pokemon can switch into Rayquaza safely, however.
Goddess Briyella tell me what i did wrong
edit: fuck why did it all go blue
Last edited:
Goddess Briyella
Banned deucer.
imo you should bold the changes in the future to make everything easier to read. For example,
"it" does not appear obviously blue from a quick glance, and while the writer probably wouldn't overlook this particular change, if there is only a single unbolded blue or red word in a paragraph it is much easier to miss. It takes very little extra work to bold changes and adds a lot of extra clarity, so I highly recommend it. (Similar reason for [add comma] and such; the writer could identify a blue comma or period if they were incredibly diligent, but it's still easy to overlook.)
Implemented check. Also added DTail to OO.
tehy
Banned deucer.
Get chekt
Delete inRED
Add in BLUE
Hey, so a few things
firstly, i see this a lot in ubers analyses; i get that Speed Creep is most important in Ubers, but it's also a no-no for analyses, srsly, this needs to stop.
secondly, if you don't know what a word means use a simpler one (or look it up, this is the internet) cause there are a few instances that are kinda bad.
This sentence doesn't really make any sense, at all; I hope i don't need to say why. (usage tips)"Extremespeed is a very deceiving move in terms of power; if the opposing team is weak enough, cleaning up with Choice Banded Extremespeed is a cinch, but don't attempt to clean early-game with this Rayquaza variant, as the boosting wallbreaker set does this much better."
other than that cut down on the fluff and read my comments, Extremespeed -> Extreme Speed
canman98
Delete in
Add in BLUE
Hey, so a few things
firstly, i see this a lot in ubers analyses; i get that Speed Creep is most important in Ubers, but it's also a no-no for analyses, srsly, this needs to stop.
secondly, if you don't know what a word means use a simpler one (or look it up, this is the internet) cause there are a few instances that are kinda bad.
This sentence doesn't really make any sense, at all; I hope i don't need to say why. (usage tips)"Extremespeed is a very deceiving move in terms of power; if the opposing team is weak enough, cleaning up with Choice Banded Extremespeed is a cinch, but don't attempt to clean early-game with this Rayquaza variant, as the boosting wallbreaker set does this much better."
other than that cut down on the fluff and read my comments, Extremespeed -> Extreme Speed
Comments:
I'll acknowledge this is a personal judgement, but why talk about moves that provide coverage alongside Dragon Ascent before, idk, Dragon Ascent? I moved its sentence before EQ's for that very reason, it just comes off as kinda strange.
You never mentioned what the 252 attack EVs do, so i filled that in.
saying Voltturn let it come n safely on a switch is kinda redundant, especially since, say, M-zor, is slow enough to give a free switch-in regardless.
You can tell that SD lacks flexibility against offensive teams because you say DD boosts it, again redundancy. You could say something like 'it sorely lacks' to really emphasize that it doesn't have it, but come on, +2 espeed not enough for ya?
"outspeeding certain spreads of Lugia" is totally speed creep, and thus shouldn't even be mentioned.
252 Atk Choice Band Rayquaza Dragon Ascent vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Genesect: 340-402 (120.1 - 142%)
Ok, so i know you said "V-create takes care of the stuff EQ can't", but is genesect really a logical mention in that spot, considering that Ray Ray just busts right past it?
DD Usage tips: Firstly, what relevance does v-create have in this case? cutting the v-create mention detracts no information, except maybe that v-create forces it out, which is already kinda stated obliquely the way I did it. Also, you should really keep a watch out for revengers no mater what; ray isn't sooo bulky that it's only revengeable after a Dragon Ascent yeah?
Since Ferro can also use Spikes, let's just call them 'entry hazards users'
'levitating Steel-types' what about other ones? Keep in mind that, as a choice lock, they can come in on the revenge kill, even if they can't switch in directly. TBH it's not like zonger (if anyone uses it?) can't come in to an extent anyhow.
I'll acknowledge this is a personal judgement, but why talk about moves that provide coverage alongside Dragon Ascent before, idk, Dragon Ascent? I moved its sentence before EQ's for that very reason, it just comes off as kinda strange.
You never mentioned what the 252 attack EVs do, so i filled that in.
saying Voltturn let it come n safely on a switch is kinda redundant, especially since, say, M-zor, is slow enough to give a free switch-in regardless.
You can tell that SD lacks flexibility against offensive teams because you say DD boosts it, again redundancy. You could say something like 'it sorely lacks' to really emphasize that it doesn't have it, but come on, +2 espeed not enough for ya?
"outspeeding certain spreads of Lugia" is totally speed creep, and thus shouldn't even be mentioned.
252 Atk Choice Band Rayquaza Dragon Ascent vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Genesect: 340-402 (120.1 - 142%)
Ok, so i know you said "V-create takes care of the stuff EQ can't", but is genesect really a logical mention in that spot, considering that Ray Ray just busts right past it?
DD Usage tips: Firstly, what relevance does v-create have in this case? cutting the v-create mention detracts no information, except maybe that v-create forces it out, which is already kinda stated obliquely the way I did it. Also, you should really keep a watch out for revengers no mater what; ray isn't sooo bulky that it's only revengeable after a Dragon Ascent yeah?
Since Ferro can also use Spikes, let's just call them 'entry hazards users'
'levitating Steel-types' what about other ones? Keep in mind that, as a choice lock, they can come in on the revenge kill, even if they can't switch in directly. TBH it's not like zonger (if anyone uses it?) can't come in to an extent anyhow.
Overview
########
Rayquaza's newhas gained many new abilities upon returning to its home of yore in ORAS. Having been bestowed its own signature move,(rc) Dragon Ascent,(rc) Rayquaza can allows it to wallbreak much more efficiently without relying on V-create, something it greatly appreciates. Air Lock's ability has also gotten a buff,(rc) being able to quell Desolate Land and Primordial Sea,(rc) something which is valuable for teams who need a soft check to both Primal Groudon and Primal Kyogre. As a wallbreaker, Rayquaza is more than happy to help the whole new slew of Mega Evolutions, particularly Mega Salamence, giving them more opportunities to fill up teamslots. Another unseen boon for Rayquaza is that most of its Many of Rayquaza's original checks and counters have decreased dramatically in usefulness due to the addition of Primal Reversion, letting it rip through teams all the easier. However, most of Rayquaza's old flaws are still noticeable. Most notably, its Stealth Rock weakness coupled with its iffy overall bulk leaves it prone to being revenge killed. Furthermore, its Speed stat is relatively mediocre, leaving it outsped by a multitude of offensive threats such as the Latios, Latias, and any Pokemon in the base 100 Speed tier. However, don't discount Rayquaza's power for a second, for it could be your team's last flight of glory.
MixQuaza
########
name: MixQuaza
move 1: Draco Meteor
move 2: Earthquake / Fire Blast
move 3: Dragon Ascent
move 4: Extreme Speed / Earthquake
ability: Air Lock
item: Life Orb
evs: 252 Atk / 40 SpA / 216 Spe
nature: Naive
Moves
========
Draco Meteor smacks is what makes MixQuaza what it is,(rc) as it is deadly against physical walls, support Arceus, and even Primal Groudon,(rc) smacking them for masive damage for massive damage. Dragon Ascent is Rayquaza's obligatory STAB move, and provides a strong physical attack for Rayquaza to utilize alongside Draco Meteor. Earthquake rounds out the coverage with Dragon Ascent, hitting Aegislash, Klefki, and Heatran hard, in addition to having and had a large amount of super-effective targets. Fire Blast is also a nice choice over Earthquake if Skarmory, Bronzong, Ferrothorn, and Scizor are major hindrances to a sweeper on Rayquaza's team. Dragon Ascent is Rayquaza's obligatory STAB move,(rc) and provides a strong physical attack for Rayquaza to utilize alongside Draco Meteor. Extreme Speed is a very helpful tool against offensive teams if revenge killing is lacking on Rayquaza's team, at the cost of losing a coverage move for stall or balance teams.
Set Details
========
Theabove EV spread provides the ability to outspeed positive-natured base 90's, including both Groudon and Kyogre, while donating some power to Special Attack to boost Draco Meteor and boosts Draco Meteor and Fire Blast while maximizing Rayquaza's physical prowess. However, the Special Attack EVs and Attack EVs can be flipped to do more damage with Draco Meteor to snipe bulky Primal Groudon and support Arceus formes, at the cost of decreasing Dragon Ascent's power. A Naughty or Rash nature can also be utilized for extra power, since it Rayquaza gets outsped by support Arceus formes anyway while being naturally faster than other walls it can break.
Usage Tips
========
Rayquaza is first and foremost a wallbreaker, so smash down walls when you get the chance and pave the way for a sweeper. However, a crucial factor when playing MixQuaza iswatching its HP bar from Life Orb recoil, something that leaves it open to being revenge killed by the base 100 or higher Speed tier if it gets too low, so try to keep Rayquaza healthy by the occasional double switch or pivoting with other team members. Also, don't feel too pressured to choose between using Dragon Ascent and Draco Meteor, as neither completely force you out and both 2HKO most of the metagame anyway, taking a nice chunk out of tanks and walls.
Team Options
========
If the team's Mega slot is open,(rc) Mega Salamence is without a doubt one of Rayquaza's best partners, since the two apply ludicrous offensive pressure on multiple team archetypes, though the two they have little defensive synergy. Stealth Rock support is also a major factor of Rayquaza's overall success as a wallbreaker, as Stealth Rock breaks Lugia's Multiscale; Primal Groudon, Dialga, and Landorus-T are great partners for MixQuaza. In order to give opportunities for Rayquaza to come in safely,(rc) uUsers of Volt Switch and U-turn, such as Genesect, Thundurus, and Mega Scizor, allow Rayquaza to safely come in on a switch and likely snag a KO. Defog users such as Latios, Latias, Giratina-O, and Arceus can remove Stealth Rock for Rayquaza, relieving the pressure of losing a quarter of its health every time it switches in. Mega Gengar can cripple support Arceus formes with Taunt, giving an opportunity for Rayquaza to come in on them without fearing a stray Will-O-Wisp, and can also trap and KO faster revenge killers that can threaten Rayquaza.
Dance Dance Rayvolution
########
name: Dance Dance Rayvolution
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Dragon Ascent
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Extreme Speed / Dragon Dance
ability: Air Lock
item: Life Orb
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
nature: Adamant / Jolly
Moves
========
Swords Dance turns Rayquaza into an extremely powerful wallbreaker in a single turn, and absolutely smashes walls combined with Dragon Ascent. Earthquake providesis extremely potent with coverage alongside Dragon Ascent in terms of coverage, hitting Aegislash, Heatran, Klefki, and Rock Arceus where it hurts. Extreme Speed specifically lets Rayquaza functions as a backup revenge killer against offensive teams, and it can even OHKO most frail offensive Pokemon, such as Darkrai, after a single Swords Dance,(rc) such as Darkrai. However, Dragon Dance is a viable alternative to Extremespeed to be more flexible against offense,(rc) something that Swords Dance lacks. V-create can also be used over Extreme Speed or Earthquake if Steel-types such as Scizor, Skarmory, Bronzong, and Ferrothorn are of concern to Rayquaza's team.
Set Details
========
Max Attack and Speed EVs are imperative for Rayquaza's wallbreaking efficiency, and an Adamant nature maximizes Rayquaza's power output with Swords Dance and/or Dragon Dance. However, a Jolly nature is an acceptable alternative to Adamant in order to outspeed positive base 90s's and specific spreads of Lugia if needed. The 4 EVs in Special Defense give Genesect an Attack boost from Download, giving it an incentive to use U-turn instead of Ice Beam, lowering the risk of Rayquaza being revenge killed by it.
Usage Tips
========
If Dragon Dance is used over Extreme Speed, boost appropriately with either Dragon Dance to clean offensive teams, or Swords Dance to wallbreak balance and stall.Given the possibility that Extreme Speed is used instead,(rc) dDon't attempt to clean with it Extreme Speed Rayquaza unless the opponent's team is sufficiently weakened; Dragon Ascent is Rayquaza's most powerful attack, so use it as such. Also,; Dragon Ascent doesn't always force Rayquaza out like V-create does, as Dragon Ascent only lowers Rayquaza's defenses , but be wary of Rayquaza's HP bar and possible Choice Scarf carriers or revenge killers after Dragon Ascent has been used.
Team Options
========
Mega Salamence is one of the best teammates to Rayquaza in general, as both can put extreme amounts of pressure on the opposing team's walls, at the cost of not offering that much defensively to the team and having difficulty switching with each other. Primal Groudon is also a solid support partner for Rayquaza, as it can set up Stealth Rock and can run Fire Punch to cover Skarmory and Scizor for Rayquaza. OtherStealth Rock entry hazard users such as Landorus-T, Dialga, and Ferrothorn also assist Rayquaza in wallbreaking or cleaning with either Swords Dance or Dragon Dance. Klefki in particular also has great type synergy with Rayquaza, in addition to checking Latios, Latias, support Arceus formes, and Xerneas, along with and provides Spikes support. Volt Switch or U-turn support from Pokemon such as Mega Scizor or Thundurus can bring in Rayquaza safely on a predicted switch while keeping its health in pristine condition. Defog users such as Latios, Latias, Giratina-O, and Arceus also help out Rayquaza in coming come in on a Stealth Rock-free field, and Latias can help bring back Rayquaza's HP and remove a possible status condition with Healing Wish. Mega Gengar can trap support Arceus formes or suicide itself against non-Scarfed revenge killers with Destiny Bond, lessening the threat of having Rayquaza picked off.
Choice Band
########
name: Choice Band
move 1: Dragon Ascent
move 2: Earthquake
move 3: V-create
move 4: Extreme Speed
ability: Air Lock
item: Choice Band
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
nature: Adamant / Jolly
Moves
========
Choice Banded Dragon Ascent is the main draw of this set, nearly annihilating nearly anything other than dedicated physical walls such as Lugia and support Arceus formes. Earthquake can also covers grounded Steel-types,(ac) as well as and Primal Groudon without resorting to Dragon Ascent, in addition to rounding out the majority of Rayquaza's coverage. V-create incinerates the targets that Earthquake Rayquaza's other moves can't, which include Skarmory, Scizor, and the occasional Genesect. Extreme Speed is also very threatening with a Choice Band, cleanly 2HKOinges speedy attackers such as Shaymin-S,(rc) and Darkrai,(rc) and even a chance to 2HKO while sometimes 2HKOing Mega Mewtwo X after Stealth Rock. Waterfall is a possible choice over V-create or Extremespeed to immediately OHKO Primal Groudon with little to no risk, and it can deal with Landorus-T and Hippowdon without using Dragon Ascent or V-create.
Set Details
========
An Adamant nature maximizes Choice Band's power and makes Dragon Ascent hit as hard as it can get unboosted. A Jolly nature can also be an option to outspeed positive base 90's,(rc) and Speed tie max Speed Kyurem-W,(rc) and outcreep Lugia. Maximum Attack and Speed EVs assist all of the aforementioned attributes,(RC) letting let Rayquaza be as powerful and as fast as possible.
Usage Tips
========
Locking into Dragon Ascent isn't as reckless a move as one would think, as even resisted hits do savage amounts of damage. V-create and Earthquake on the other hand need to be used wisely and sparingly, as a single V-create will force you out after a Speed drop, while Earthquake can be taken advantage of by Flying-types orlevitating Steel-types Levitate Pokemon. Also, the lack of Life Orb recoil is very nice for Rayquaza's efficiency, but still pay attention to Rayquaza's health, especially if Stealth Rock is up on Rayquaza's side of the field. Extremespeed is a very deceiving move in terms of power; if the opposing team is weak enough, cleaning up with Choice Banded Extremespeed is a cinch, but don't attempt to clean early-game with this Rayquaza variant, as the boosting wallbreaker set does this much better.
Team Options
========
Mega Salamence is a solid partner to Rayquaza, especially since Rayquaza can run all of its coverage options, so both can wallbreak whatever they wish whileexhuming exerting a large amount of offensive pressure. Primal Groudon and other Stealth Rock setters such as Dialga and Landorus-T can help Rayquaza seize attain some OHKOs on frailer Pokemon with Extreme Speed or 2HKO Lugia with Dragon Ascent. Klefki also provides solid type synergy and Spikes support, letting Rayquaza wreck support Arceus formes with a single Dragon Ascent. Defog users such as Latios, Latias, Giratina-O, and Arceus let Rayquaza worry little about residual damage as a whole, letting it spam Dragon Ascent to its heart's content. Mega Gengar can trap and KO support Arceus and other Pokemon faster than Rayquaza, which can safeguard Rayquaza from a Will-O-Wisp out of left field.
Other Options
########
Rayquaza's movepool and item choices are relatively straightforward, but there are some options for those who wish to go off the beaten path. Tailwind is a devious support move for Rayquaza,(rc) and can be used on the boosting wallbreaking set to either clean or help a sweeper, at the cost of not increasing Rayquaza's power in any way. Dragon Claw and Outrage are also acceptable STAB moves to use, but their targets and objectives are mostly overshadowed by Dragon Ascent. Iron Tail can immediately dent Fairy-types and Rock Arceus without using Earthquake, but its the accuracy and coverage of this move is are very poor. Surf is an optional coverage move on MixQuaza to immediately OHKOes Primal Groudon, but it overlaps with Draco Meteor in terms of utility. Dragon Tail can be utilized against Mega Sableye defensive cores to pressure walls with residual damage and dupe break Lugia's Multiscale on a switch, but doesn't offer as much coverage and can be troublesome with its negative priority and Rayquaza's minor bulk issues.
Choice Scarf Rayquaza can be very useful for revenge killing with Dragon Ascent, but the lack of power is extremely glaring when using it. Lum Berry can also help Rayquaza shake off a burn or paralysis immediately, but it also has a large lack of power that Life Orb or Choice Band offers. Focus Sash makes Rayquaza function as an anti-lead, limiting most dedicated leads to a single layer of hazards, but power is everything when Rayquaza is involved, and Focus Sash restricts Rayquaza's role as a wallbreaker.
Checks & Counters
########
**Lugia**: Lugia can take any hit Rayquaza has to offer and either force it out with Whirlwind or 2HKO it with Ice Beam. However, Rayquaza can 2HKO Lugia after Stealth Rock with Dragon Ascent, and Lugia absolutely needs Multiscale to check Rayquaza.
**Support Arceus**: Support Arceus formes such as Rock and Fairy can outspeed Rayquaza and either cripple it with Will-O-Wisp or outright KO it with a super-effective Judgment. MixQuaza can bypass the burn and 2HKO most support Arceus formes with Draco Meteor and Dragon Ascent, leaving only the aforementioned formes as the most effective checks.
**Primal Groudon**: Though it does not like particularly taking any hit Rayquaza has to offer, Primal Groudon can immediately threaten to OHKO Rayquaza with Stone Edge, cripple it with Lava Plume, or set up Stealth Rock as Rayquaza gets forced out, discouraging it from switching back in.
**Revenge Killers**: Due to Rayquaza's average bulk, faster Pokemon such as Darkrai, Mewtwo, Mega Gengar, Latios, Latias, Palkia, and Choice Scarf Genesect can outspeed and OHKO Rayquaza with the right coverage move. None of these Pokemon can switch into Rayquaza safely, however.
########
Rayquaza's new
MixQuaza
########
name: MixQuaza
move 1: Draco Meteor
move 2: Earthquake / Fire Blast
move 3: Dragon Ascent
move 4: Extreme Speed / Earthquake
ability: Air Lock
item: Life Orb
evs: 252 Atk / 40 SpA / 216 Spe
nature: Naive
Moves
========
Draco Meteor smacks
Set Details
========
The
Usage Tips
========
Rayquaza is first and foremost a wallbreaker, so smash down walls when you get the chance and pave the way for a sweeper. However, a crucial factor when playing MixQuaza is
Team Options
========
Dance Dance Rayvolution
########
name: Dance Dance Rayvolution
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Dragon Ascent
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Extreme Speed / Dragon Dance
ability: Air Lock
item: Life Orb
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
nature: Adamant / Jolly
Moves
========
Swords Dance turns Rayquaza into an extremely powerful wallbreaker in a single turn, and absolutely smashes walls combined with Dragon Ascent. Earthquake provides
Set Details
========
Max Attack and Speed EVs are imperative for Rayquaza's wallbreaking efficiency, and an Adamant nature maximizes Rayquaza's power output
Usage Tips
========
If Dragon Dance is used over Extreme Speed, boost appropriately with either Dragon Dance to clean offensive teams, or Swords Dance to wallbreak balance and stall.
Team Options
========
Mega Salamence is one of the best teammates to Rayquaza in general, as both can put extreme amounts of pressure on the opposing team's walls, at the cost of not offering that much defensively to the team and having difficulty switching with each other. Primal Groudon is also a solid support partner for Rayquaza, as it can set up Stealth Rock and can run Fire Punch to cover Skarmory and Scizor for Rayquaza. Other
Choice Band
########
name: Choice Band
move 1: Dragon Ascent
move 2: Earthquake
move 3: V-create
move 4: Extreme Speed
ability: Air Lock
item: Choice Band
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
nature: Adamant / Jolly
Moves
========
Choice Band
Set Details
========
An Adamant nature maximizes Choice Band's power and makes Dragon Ascent hit as hard as it can get unboosted. A Jolly nature can also be an option to outspeed positive base 90's
Usage Tips
========
Locking into Dragon Ascent isn't as reckless a move as one would think, as even resisted hits do savage amounts of damage. V-create and Earthquake on the other hand need to be used wisely and sparingly, as a single V-create will force you out after a Speed drop, while Earthquake can be taken advantage of by Flying-types or
Team Options
========
Mega Salamence is a solid partner to Rayquaza, especially since Rayquaza can run all of its coverage options, so both can wallbreak whatever they wish while
Other Options
########
Choice Scarf Rayquaza can be very useful for revenge killing with Dragon Ascent, but the lack of power is extremely glaring when using it. Lum Berry can also help Rayquaza shake off a burn or paralysis immediately, but it also has a large lack of power that Life Orb or Choice Band offers. Focus Sash makes Rayquaza function as an anti-lead, limiting most dedicated leads to a single layer of hazards, but power is everything when Rayquaza is involved, and Focus Sash restricts Rayquaza's role as a wallbreaker.
Checks & Counters
########
**Lugia**: Lugia can take any hit Rayquaza has to offer and either force it out with Whirlwind or 2HKO it with Ice Beam. However, Rayquaza can 2HKO Lugia after Stealth Rock with Dragon Ascent, and Lugia absolutely needs Multiscale to check Rayquaza.
**Support Arceus**: Support Arceus formes such as Rock and Fairy can outspeed Rayquaza and either cripple it with Will-O-Wisp or outright KO it with a super-effective Judgment. MixQuaza can bypass the burn and 2HKO most support Arceus formes with Draco Meteor and Dragon Ascent, leaving only the aforementioned formes as the most effective checks.
**Primal Groudon**: Though it does not like particularly taking any hit Rayquaza has to offer, Primal Groudon can immediately threaten to OHKO Rayquaza with Stone Edge, cripple it with Lava Plume, or set up Stealth Rock as Rayquaza gets forced out, discouraging it from switching back in.
**Revenge Killers**: Due to Rayquaza's average bulk, faster Pokemon such as Darkrai, Mewtwo, Mega Gengar, Latios, Latias, Palkia, and Choice Scarf Genesect can outspeed and OHKO Rayquaza with the right coverage move. None of these Pokemon can switch into Rayquaza safely, however.
canman98
add/correct remove comments
2/2
Overview
########
Rayquaza has gained many new abilities upon returning to its home of yore in ORAS. Having been bestowed its own signature move, Dragon Ascent, Rayquaza can wallbreak much more efficiently without relying on V-create, something it greatly appreciates. Air Lock has also gotten a buff, being able to quell Desolate Land and Primordial Sea, something which is valuable for teams that who need a soft check to both Primal Groudon and Primal Kyogre. As a wallbreaker, Rayquaza is more than happy to help the whole new slew of Mega Evolutions, particularly Mega Salamence, giving them more opportunities to fill up teamslots. Another unseen boon for Rayquaza is that most of its original checks and counters have decreased dramatically in usefulness due to the addition of Primal Reversion, letting it rip through teams all the easier. However, most of Rayquaza's old flaws are still noticeable. Most notably, its Stealth Rock weakness coupled with its iffy overall bulk leaves it prone to being revenge killed. Furthermore, its Speed stat is relatively mediocre, leaving it outsped by a multitude of offensive threats such as the Latios, Latias, and the base 100 Speed tier. However, don't discount Rayquaza's power for a second, for it could be your team's last flight of glory.
MixQuaza
########
name: MixQuaza
move 1: Draco Meteor
move 2: Earthquake / Fire Blast
move 3: Dragon Ascent
move 4: Extreme Speed / Earthquake
ability: Air Lock
item: Life Orb
evs: 252 Atk / 40 SpA / 216 Spe
nature: Naive
Moves
========
Draco Meteor is what makes MixQuaza what it is, as it is deadly against physical walls, support Arceus, and even Primal Groudon, smacking them for massive damage. Earthquake rounds out the coverage with Dragon Ascent, hitting Aegislash, Klefki, and Heatran hard, (RC) in addition to having a large amount of super-(remove hyphen) effective targets. Fire Blast is also a nice choice over Earthquake if Skarmory, Bronzong, Ferrothorn, and Scizor are major hindrances to a sweeper on Rayquaza's team. Dragon Ascent is Rayquaza's obligatory STAB move, (RC) and provides a strong physical attack for Rayquaza to utilize alongside Draco Meteor. Extreme Speed is a very helpful tool against offensive teams if revenge killing is lacking on Rayquaza's team, (RC) at the cost of losing a coverage move for stall or balance teams.
Set Details
========
The above EV spread provides the ability to outspeed positive-natured base 90's Speed Pokemon, including both Groudon and Kyogre, while donating some power to Special Attack to boost Draco Meteor. However, the Special Attack EVs and Attack EVs can be flipped to do more damage with Draco Meteor to snipe bulky Primal Groudon and support Arceus formes, (RC) at the cost of decreasing Dragon Ascent's power. A Naughty or Rash nature can also be utilized for extra power, as Rayquaza since it gets outsped by support Arceus formes anyway while being naturally faster than other walls it can break.
Usage Tips
========
Rayquaza is first and foremost a wallbreaker, so smash down walls when you get the chance and pave the way for a sweeper. However, a crucial factor when playing MixQuaza is watching its HP bar from Life Orb recoil, something that leaves it open to being revenge killed by the base 100 or higher Speed tier if it gets too low, so try to keep Rayquaza healthy by the occasional double switch or pivoting with other team members. Also, don't feel too pressured to choose between using Dragon Ascent and Draco Meteor, as neither completely force you Rayquaza out and both 2HKO most of the metagame anyway, taking a nice chunk out of tanks and walls.
Team Options
========
If the team's Mega Evolution slot is open, Mega Salamence is without a doubt one of Rayquaza's best partners, as since the two apply ludicrous offensive pressure on multiple team archetypes, though the two have little defensive synergy. Stealth Rock support is also a major factor of Rayquaza's overall success as a wallbreaker, as Stealth Rock breaks Lugia's Multiscale; Primal Groudon, Dialga, and Landorus-T are great partners for MixQuaza. In order to give opportunities for Rayquaza to come in safely, users of Volt Switch and U-turn, such as Genesect, Thundurus, and Mega Scizor, allow Rayquaza to come in on a switch and likely snag a KO. Defog users such as Latios, Latias, Giratina-O, and Arceus can remove Stealth Rock for Rayquaza, relieving the pressure of losing a quarter of its health every time it switches in. Mega Gengar can cripple support Arceus formes with Taunt, giving an opportunity for Rayquaza to come in on them without fearing a stray Will-O-Wisp, and it can also trap and KO faster revenge killers that can threaten Rayquaza.
Dance Dance Rayvolution
########
name: Dance Dance Rayvolution
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Dragon Ascent
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Extreme Speed / Dragon Dance
ability: Air Lock
item: Life Orb
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
nature: Adamant / Jolly
Moves
========
Swords Dance turns Rayquaza into an extremely powerful wallbreaker in a single turn, (RC) and absolutely smashes walls combined with Dragon Ascent. Earthquake is extremely potent with Dragon Ascent in terms of coverage, hitting Aegislash, Heatran, Klefki, and Rock Arceus where it hurts. Extreme Speed specifically functions as a backup revenge killer against offensive teams, and it can even OHKO most frail offensive Pokemon after a single Swords Dance, such as Darkrai. However, Dragon Dance is a viable alternative to Extreme Speed to be more flexible against offense, something that Swords Dance lacks. V-create can also be used over Extreme Speed or Earthquake if Steel-types such as Scizor, Skarmory, Bronzong, and Ferrothorn are of concern to Rayquaza's team.
Set Details
========
Max Attack and Speed EVs are imperative for Rayquaza's wallbreaking efficiency, and an Adamant nature maximizes Rayquaza's power output with Swords Dance and/or Dragon Dance. However, a Jolly nature is an acceptable alternative to Adamant in order to outspeed positive-natured base 90's Speed Pokemon and specific spreads of Lugia if needed. The 4 EVs in Special Defense give Genesect an Attack boost from Download, giving it an incentive to use U-turn instead of Ice Beam, lowering the risk of Rayquaza being revenge killed.
Usage Tips
========
If Dragon Dance is used over Extreme Speed, boost appropriately with either Dragon Dance to clean offensive teams, (RC) or Swords Dance to wallbreak balance and stall. Given the possibility that Extreme Speed is used instead, don't attempt to clean with it unless the opponent's team is sufficiently weakened; Dragon Ascent is Rayquaza's most powerful attack, so use it as such. Also, Dragon Ascent doesn't always force Rayquaza out like V-create does, as Dragon Ascent only lowers Rayquaza's defenses, [remove space before comma] but be wary of Rayquaza's HP bar and possible Choice Scarf carriers or revenge killers after Dragon Ascent has been used.
Team Options
========
Mega Salamence is one of the best teammates to Rayquaza in general, as both can put extreme amounts of pressure on the opposing team's walls, (RC) at the cost of not offering that much defensively to the team and having difficulty switching with each other. Primal Groudon is also a solid support partner for Rayquaza, as it can set up Stealth Rock and can run Fire Punch to cover Skarmory and Scizor for Rayquaza. Other Stealth Rock users such as Landorus-T, Dialga, and Ferrothorn also assist Rayquaza in wallbreaking or cleaning with either Swords Dance or Dragon Dance. Klefki in particular also has great type synergy with Rayquaza, (RC) in addition to checking Latios, Latias, support Arceus formes, and Xerneas, along with Spikes support. Volt Switch or U-turn support from Pokemon such as Mega Scizor or Thundurus respectively can bring in Rayquaza safely on a predicted switch while keeping its health in pristine condition. Defog users such as Latios, Latias, Giratina-O, and Arceus also help out Rayquaza in coming in on a Stealth Rock-free field, and Latias can help bring back Rayquaza's HP and remove a possible status condition with Healing Wish. Mega Gengar can trap support Arceus formes or sacrifice suicide itself against non-Scarfed revenge killers, lessening the threat of having Rayquaza picked off.
Choice Band
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name: Choice Band
move 1: Dragon Ascent
move 2: Earthquake
move 3: V-create
move 4: Extreme Speed
ability: Air Lock
item: Choice Band
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
nature: Adamant / Jolly
Moves
========
Choice Banded Dragon Ascent is the main draw of this set, as it nearly annihilates annihilating anything other than dedicated physical walls such as Lugia and support Arceus formes. Earthquake can also cover grounded Steel-types and Primal Groudon without resorting to Dragon Ascent, (RC) in addition to rounding out the majority of Rayquaza's coverage. V-create incinerates the targets that Earthquake can't, which includes Skarmory, Scizor, and the occasional Genesect. Extreme Speed is also very threatening with a Choice Band, cleanly 2HKOing speedy attackers such as Shaymin-S, (RC) and Darkrai; (comma -> semi) it and even has a chance to 2HKO Mega Mewtwo X after Stealth Rock. Waterfall is a possible choice over V-create or Extreme Speed to immediately OHKO Primal Groudon with little to no risk, and it can deal with Landorus-T and Hippowdon without using Dragon Ascent or V-create.
Set Details
========
An Adamant nature maximizes Choice Band's power and makes Dragon Ascent hit as hard as it can get unboosted. A Jolly nature can also be an option to outspeed positive-natured base 90's Speed Pokemon, Speed tie with maximum Speed Kyurem-W, and outcreep Lugia. Maximum Attack and Speed EVs assist all of the aforementioned attributes, letting Rayquaza be as powerful and as fast as possible.
Usage Tips
========
Locking into Dragon Ascent isn't as reckless a move as one would think, as even resisted hits do savage amounts of damage. V-create and Earthquake on the other hand need to be used wisely and sparingly, as a single V-create will force you out after a Speed drop, while Earthquake can be taken advantage of by Flying-types or levitating Steel-types. Also, the lack of Life Orb recoil is very nice for Rayquaza's efficiency, but still pay attention to Rayquaza's health, especially if Stealth Rock is set up on Rayquaza's side of the field. Extreme Speed is a very deceiving move in terms of power; if the opposing team is weak enough, cleaning up with Choice Banded Extreme Speed is a cinch, but don't attempt to clean early-game with this Rayquaza variant, as the boosting wallbreaker set does this much better.
Team Options
========
Mega Salamence is a solid partner to Rayquaza, especially because since Rayquaza can run all of its coverage options, so both can wallbreak whatever they wish while exhuming a large amount of offensive pressure. Primal Groudon and other Stealth Rock setters such as Dialga and Landorus-T can help Rayquaza seize some OHKOs on frailer Pokemon with Extreme Speed or 2HKO Lugia with Dragon Ascent. Klefki also provides solid type synergy and Spikes support, letting Rayquaza wreck support Arceus formes with a single Dragon Ascent. Defog users such as Latios, Latias, Giratina-O, and Arceus let Rayquaza worry little about residual damage as a whole, letting it spam Dragon Ascent to its heart's content. Mega Gengar can trap and KO support Arceus and other Pokemon faster than Rayquaza, which can safeguard Rayquaza from a Will-O-Wisp out of left field.
Other Options
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Rayquaza's movepool and item choices are relatively straightforward, but there are some options for those who wish to go off the beaten path. Tailwind is a devious support move for Rayquaza, and it can be used on the boosting wallbreaking set to either clean or help a sweeper, (RC) at the cost of not increasing Rayquaza's power in any way. Dragon Claw and Outrage are also acceptable STAB moves to use, but their targets and objectives are mostly overshadowed by Dragon Ascent. Iron Tail can immediately dent Fairy-types and Rock Arceus without using Earthquake, but the accuracy and coverage of this move is very poor. Surf is an optional coverage move on MixQuaza to immediately OHKO Primal Groudon, but it overlaps with Draco Meteor in terms of utility. Dragon Tail can be utilized against Mega Sableye defensive cores to pressure walls with residual damage and dupe Lugia's Multiscale on a switch, but doesn't offer as much coverage and can be troublesome with its negative priority and Rayquaza's minor bulk issues.
Choice Scarf Rayquaza can be very useful for revenge killing with Dragon Ascent, but the lack of power is extremely glaring when using it. Lum Berry can also help Rayquaza shake off a burn or paralysis immediately, but it also has a large lack of power that Life Orb or Choice Band offers. Focus Sash makes Rayquaza function as an anti-lead, limiting most dedicated leads to a single layer of entry hazards, but power is everything when Rayquaza is involved, and Focus Sash restricts Rayquaza's role as a wallbreaker.
Checks & Counters
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**Lugia**: Lugia can take any hit Rayquaza has to offer and either force it out with Whirlwind or 2HKO it with Ice Beam. However, Rayquaza can 2HKO Lugia after Stealth Rock with Dragon Ascent, and Lugia absolutely needs Multiscale to check Rayquaza.
**Support Arceus**: Support Arceus formes such as Rock and Fairy can outspeed Rayquaza and either cripple it with Will-O-Wisp or outright KO it with a super-(remove hyphen) effective Judgment. MixQuaza can bypass the burn and 2HKO most support Arceus formes with Draco Meteor and Dragon Ascent, leaving only the aforementioned formes as the most effective checks.
**Primal Groudon**: Though it does not like particularly taking any hit Rayquaza has to offer, Primal Groudon can immediately threaten to OHKO Rayquaza with Stone Edge, cripple it with Lava Plume, or set up Stealth Rock as Rayquaza gets forced out, discouraging it from switching back in.
**Revenge Killers**: Due to Rayquaza's average bulk, faster Pokemon such as Darkrai, Mewtwo, Mega Gengar, Latios, Latias, Palkia, and Choice Scarf Genesect can outspeed and OHKO Rayquaza with the right coverage move. None of these Pokemon can switch into Rayquaza safely, however.
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Rayquaza has gained many new abilities upon returning to its home of yore in ORAS. Having been bestowed its own signature move, Dragon Ascent, Rayquaza can wallbreak much more efficiently without relying on V-create, something it greatly appreciates. Air Lock has also gotten a buff, being able to quell Desolate Land and Primordial Sea, something which is valuable for teams that who need a soft check to both Primal Groudon and Primal Kyogre. As a wallbreaker, Rayquaza is more than happy to help the whole new slew of Mega Evolutions, particularly Mega Salamence, giving them more opportunities to fill up teamslots. Another unseen boon for Rayquaza is that most of its original checks and counters have decreased dramatically in usefulness due to the addition of Primal Reversion, letting it rip through teams all the easier. However, most of Rayquaza's old flaws are still noticeable. Most notably, its Stealth Rock weakness coupled with its iffy overall bulk leaves it prone to being revenge killed. Furthermore, its Speed stat is relatively mediocre, leaving it outsped by a multitude of offensive threats such as the Latios, Latias, and the base 100 Speed tier. However, don't discount Rayquaza's power for a second, for it could be your team's last flight of glory.
MixQuaza
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name: MixQuaza
move 1: Draco Meteor
move 2: Earthquake / Fire Blast
move 3: Dragon Ascent
move 4: Extreme Speed / Earthquake
ability: Air Lock
item: Life Orb
evs: 252 Atk / 40 SpA / 216 Spe
nature: Naive
Moves
========
Draco Meteor is what makes MixQuaza what it is, as it is deadly against physical walls, support Arceus, and even Primal Groudon, smacking them for massive damage. Earthquake rounds out the coverage with Dragon Ascent, hitting Aegislash, Klefki, and Heatran hard, (RC) in addition to having a large amount of super-(remove hyphen) effective targets. Fire Blast is also a nice choice over Earthquake if Skarmory, Bronzong, Ferrothorn, and Scizor are major hindrances to a sweeper on Rayquaza's team. Dragon Ascent is Rayquaza's obligatory STAB move, (RC) and provides a strong physical attack for Rayquaza to utilize alongside Draco Meteor. Extreme Speed is a very helpful tool against offensive teams if revenge killing is lacking on Rayquaza's team, (RC) at the cost of losing a coverage move for stall or balance teams.
Set Details
========
The above EV spread provides the ability to outspeed positive-natured base 90's Speed Pokemon, including both Groudon and Kyogre, while donating some power to Special Attack to boost Draco Meteor. However, the Special Attack EVs and Attack EVs can be flipped to do more damage with Draco Meteor to snipe bulky Primal Groudon and support Arceus formes, (RC) at the cost of decreasing Dragon Ascent's power. A Naughty or Rash nature can also be utilized for extra power, as Rayquaza since it gets outsped by support Arceus formes anyway while being naturally faster than other walls it can break.
Usage Tips
========
Rayquaza is first and foremost a wallbreaker, so smash down walls when you get the chance and pave the way for a sweeper. However, a crucial factor when playing MixQuaza is watching its HP bar from Life Orb recoil, something that leaves it open to being revenge killed by the base 100 or higher Speed tier if it gets too low, so try to keep Rayquaza healthy by the occasional double switch or pivoting with other team members. Also, don't feel too pressured to choose between using Dragon Ascent and Draco Meteor, as neither completely force you Rayquaza out and both 2HKO most of the metagame anyway, taking a nice chunk out of tanks and walls.
Team Options
========
If the team's Mega Evolution slot is open, Mega Salamence is without a doubt one of Rayquaza's best partners, as since the two apply ludicrous offensive pressure on multiple team archetypes, though the two have little defensive synergy. Stealth Rock support is also a major factor of Rayquaza's overall success as a wallbreaker, as Stealth Rock breaks Lugia's Multiscale; Primal Groudon, Dialga, and Landorus-T are great partners for MixQuaza. In order to give opportunities for Rayquaza to come in safely, users of Volt Switch and U-turn, such as Genesect, Thundurus, and Mega Scizor, allow Rayquaza to come in on a switch and likely snag a KO. Defog users such as Latios, Latias, Giratina-O, and Arceus can remove Stealth Rock for Rayquaza, relieving the pressure of losing a quarter of its health every time it switches in. Mega Gengar can cripple support Arceus formes with Taunt, giving an opportunity for Rayquaza to come in on them without fearing a stray Will-O-Wisp, and it can also trap and KO faster revenge killers that can threaten Rayquaza.
Dance Dance Rayvolution
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name: Dance Dance Rayvolution
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Dragon Ascent
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Extreme Speed / Dragon Dance
ability: Air Lock
item: Life Orb
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
nature: Adamant / Jolly
Moves
========
Swords Dance turns Rayquaza into an extremely powerful wallbreaker in a single turn, (RC) and absolutely smashes walls combined with Dragon Ascent. Earthquake is extremely potent with Dragon Ascent in terms of coverage, hitting Aegislash, Heatran, Klefki, and Rock Arceus where it hurts. Extreme Speed specifically functions as a backup revenge killer against offensive teams, and it can even OHKO most frail offensive Pokemon after a single Swords Dance, such as Darkrai. However, Dragon Dance is a viable alternative to Extreme Speed to be more flexible against offense, something that Swords Dance lacks. V-create can also be used over Extreme Speed or Earthquake if Steel-types such as Scizor, Skarmory, Bronzong, and Ferrothorn are of concern to Rayquaza's team.
Set Details
========
Max Attack and Speed EVs are imperative for Rayquaza's wallbreaking efficiency, and an Adamant nature maximizes Rayquaza's power output with Swords Dance and/or Dragon Dance. However, a Jolly nature is an acceptable alternative to Adamant in order to outspeed positive-natured base 90's Speed Pokemon and specific spreads of Lugia if needed. The 4 EVs in Special Defense give Genesect an Attack boost from Download, giving it an incentive to use U-turn instead of Ice Beam, lowering the risk of Rayquaza being revenge killed.
Usage Tips
========
If Dragon Dance is used over Extreme Speed, boost appropriately with either Dragon Dance to clean offensive teams, (RC) or Swords Dance to wallbreak balance and stall. Given the possibility that Extreme Speed is used instead, don't attempt to clean with it unless the opponent's team is sufficiently weakened; Dragon Ascent is Rayquaza's most powerful attack, so use it as such. Also, Dragon Ascent doesn't always force Rayquaza out like V-create does, as Dragon Ascent only lowers Rayquaza's defenses, [remove space before comma] but be wary of Rayquaza's HP bar and possible Choice Scarf carriers or revenge killers after Dragon Ascent has been used.
Team Options
========
Mega Salamence is one of the best teammates to Rayquaza in general, as both can put extreme amounts of pressure on the opposing team's walls, (RC) at the cost of not offering that much defensively to the team and having difficulty switching with each other. Primal Groudon is also a solid support partner for Rayquaza, as it can set up Stealth Rock and can run Fire Punch to cover Skarmory and Scizor for Rayquaza. Other Stealth Rock users such as Landorus-T, Dialga, and Ferrothorn also assist Rayquaza in wallbreaking or cleaning with either Swords Dance or Dragon Dance. Klefki in particular also has great type synergy with Rayquaza, (RC) in addition to checking Latios, Latias, support Arceus formes, and Xerneas, along with Spikes support. Volt Switch or U-turn support from Pokemon such as Mega Scizor or Thundurus respectively can bring in Rayquaza safely on a predicted switch while keeping its health in pristine condition. Defog users such as Latios, Latias, Giratina-O, and Arceus also help out Rayquaza in coming in on a Stealth Rock-free field, and Latias can help bring back Rayquaza's HP and remove a possible status condition with Healing Wish. Mega Gengar can trap support Arceus formes or sacrifice suicide itself against non-Scarfed revenge killers, lessening the threat of having Rayquaza picked off.
Choice Band
########
name: Choice Band
move 1: Dragon Ascent
move 2: Earthquake
move 3: V-create
move 4: Extreme Speed
ability: Air Lock
item: Choice Band
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
nature: Adamant / Jolly
Moves
========
Choice Banded Dragon Ascent is the main draw of this set, as it nearly annihilates annihilating anything other than dedicated physical walls such as Lugia and support Arceus formes. Earthquake can also cover grounded Steel-types and Primal Groudon without resorting to Dragon Ascent, (RC) in addition to rounding out the majority of Rayquaza's coverage. V-create incinerates the targets that Earthquake can't, which includes Skarmory, Scizor, and the occasional Genesect. Extreme Speed is also very threatening with a Choice Band, cleanly 2HKOing speedy attackers such as Shaymin-S, (RC) and Darkrai; (comma -> semi) it and even has a chance to 2HKO Mega Mewtwo X after Stealth Rock. Waterfall is a possible choice over V-create or Extreme Speed to immediately OHKO Primal Groudon with little to no risk, and it can deal with Landorus-T and Hippowdon without using Dragon Ascent or V-create.
Set Details
========
An Adamant nature maximizes Choice Band's power and makes Dragon Ascent hit as hard as it can get unboosted. A Jolly nature can also be an option to outspeed positive-natured base 90's Speed Pokemon, Speed tie with maximum Speed Kyurem-W, and outcreep Lugia. Maximum Attack and Speed EVs assist all of the aforementioned attributes, letting Rayquaza be as powerful and as fast as possible.
Usage Tips
========
Locking into Dragon Ascent isn't as reckless a move as one would think, as even resisted hits do savage amounts of damage. V-create and Earthquake on the other hand need to be used wisely and sparingly, as a single V-create will force you out after a Speed drop, while Earthquake can be taken advantage of by Flying-types or levitating Steel-types. Also, the lack of Life Orb recoil is very nice for Rayquaza's efficiency, but still pay attention to Rayquaza's health, especially if Stealth Rock is set up on Rayquaza's side of the field. Extreme Speed is a very deceiving move in terms of power; if the opposing team is weak enough, cleaning up with Choice Banded Extreme Speed is a cinch, but don't attempt to clean early-game with this Rayquaza variant, as the boosting wallbreaker set does this much better.
Team Options
========
Mega Salamence is a solid partner to Rayquaza, especially because since Rayquaza can run all of its coverage options, so both can wallbreak whatever they wish while exhuming a large amount of offensive pressure. Primal Groudon and other Stealth Rock setters such as Dialga and Landorus-T can help Rayquaza seize some OHKOs on frailer Pokemon with Extreme Speed or 2HKO Lugia with Dragon Ascent. Klefki also provides solid type synergy and Spikes support, letting Rayquaza wreck support Arceus formes with a single Dragon Ascent. Defog users such as Latios, Latias, Giratina-O, and Arceus let Rayquaza worry little about residual damage as a whole, letting it spam Dragon Ascent to its heart's content. Mega Gengar can trap and KO support Arceus and other Pokemon faster than Rayquaza, which can safeguard Rayquaza from a Will-O-Wisp out of left field.
Other Options
########
Rayquaza's movepool and item choices are relatively straightforward, but there are some options for those who wish to go off the beaten path. Tailwind is a devious support move for Rayquaza, and it can be used on the boosting wallbreaking set to either clean or help a sweeper, (RC) at the cost of not increasing Rayquaza's power in any way. Dragon Claw and Outrage are also acceptable STAB moves to use, but their targets and objectives are mostly overshadowed by Dragon Ascent. Iron Tail can immediately dent Fairy-types and Rock Arceus without using Earthquake, but the accuracy and coverage of this move is very poor. Surf is an optional coverage move on MixQuaza to immediately OHKO Primal Groudon, but it overlaps with Draco Meteor in terms of utility. Dragon Tail can be utilized against Mega Sableye defensive cores to pressure walls with residual damage and dupe Lugia's Multiscale on a switch, but doesn't offer as much coverage and can be troublesome with its negative priority and Rayquaza's minor bulk issues.
Choice Scarf Rayquaza can be very useful for revenge killing with Dragon Ascent, but the lack of power is extremely glaring when using it. Lum Berry can also help Rayquaza shake off a burn or paralysis immediately, but it also has a large lack of power that Life Orb or Choice Band offers. Focus Sash makes Rayquaza function as an anti-lead, limiting most dedicated leads to a single layer of entry hazards, but power is everything when Rayquaza is involved, and Focus Sash restricts Rayquaza's role as a wallbreaker.
Checks & Counters
########
**Lugia**: Lugia can take any hit Rayquaza has to offer and either force it out with Whirlwind or 2HKO it with Ice Beam. However, Rayquaza can 2HKO Lugia after Stealth Rock with Dragon Ascent, and Lugia absolutely needs Multiscale to check Rayquaza.
**Support Arceus**: Support Arceus formes such as Rock and Fairy can outspeed Rayquaza and either cripple it with Will-O-Wisp or outright KO it with a super-(remove hyphen) effective Judgment. MixQuaza can bypass the burn and 2HKO most support Arceus formes with Draco Meteor and Dragon Ascent, leaving only the aforementioned formes as the most effective checks.
**Primal Groudon**: Though it does not like particularly taking any hit Rayquaza has to offer, Primal Groudon can immediately threaten to OHKO Rayquaza with Stone Edge, cripple it with Lava Plume, or set up Stealth Rock as Rayquaza gets forced out, discouraging it from switching back in.
**Revenge Killers**: Due to Rayquaza's average bulk, faster Pokemon such as Darkrai, Mewtwo, Mega Gengar, Latios, Latias, Palkia, and Choice Scarf Genesect can outspeed and OHKO Rayquaza with the right coverage move. None of these Pokemon can switch into Rayquaza safely, however.
Last edited:
Implemented the final check. Also removed mention of Thundurus since it was rejected an analysis (switched it with Zekrom, which arguably works better) and any mention of speed creeping Lugia. This is now done.
- Status