Rotom-H [Singles]

Theorymon

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Time to cook up a new analysis!

[OVERVIEW]

Rotom-H might not seem as appealing as Rotom-W, but thanks to its unique typing, Rotom-H brings something unique to the table! Rotom-H's resistances to Grass, Electric, and Fire and access to a STAB Overheat mean it is able to beat threats that Rotom-W couldn't even dream of handling, such as Ferrothorn, Breloom, Serperior, Aegislash, and Mega Charizard Y. Rotom-H's Fairy-type resistance also lets it handle Mega Mawile more reliably than Rotom-W. Rotom-H can even use its typing to pivot in and out of Thundurus. Much like Rotom-W, Rotom-H also has access to a delicious but concise movepool, with access to the all-important Volt Switch that allows it to become an effective scout and scrumptious support moves such as Will-O-Wisp, Thunder Wave, and Trick.

However, as great as Overheat is for dealing with a large number of threats, the Special Attack drop leaves Rotom-H vulnerable to being set up on. Along with Volt Switch, this also means that Rotom-H is forced to switch out more often than Rotom-W, which is a problem when combined with its Stealth Rock weakness. Weaknesses to Rock- and Water-type moves in general also mean that there are some prominent threats that Rotom-H has more problems against than Rotom-W, such Garchomp and Azumarill. In general, make sure you are using Rotom-H for the unique threats it checks, rather than as an off-brand Rotom-W.

[SET]
name: Tank
move 1: Volt Switch
move 2: Overheat
move 3: Will-O-Wisp / Thunder Wave
move 4: Thunderbolt / Discharge / Hidden Power Ice
item: Sitrus Berry / Leftovers / Expert Belt
ability: Levitate
nature: Calm / Modest
evs: 252 HP / 252 SpD / 4 Spe

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

Volt Switch is an excellent scouting move on Rotom-H, allowing you to peer into what Pokemon your opponent has chosen and gain an edge with a better matchup. Overheat is Rotom-H's strongest STAB move, letting Rotom-H roast Ferrothorn and Mega Mawile. It even OHKOes Aegislash if Rotom-H is carrying an Expert Belt and is using a Modest nature. Will-O-Wisp is great for crippling Tyranitar, Azumarill, and Garchomp switch-ins and helps against Mega Mawile that might attempt to Sucker Punch Rotom-H. Thunder Wave is a reasonable alternative, punishing Mega Charizard X, Volcarona, and Blaziken for attempting to use Rotom-H as setup bait and dealing with Hydreigon switch-ins as well. In general, Will-O-Wisp and Thunder Wave allow Rotom-H to punish Pokemon that attempt to set up on it after Overheat.

Thunderbolt is a good, reliable STAB attack to consider, 2HKOing Mega Charizard Y and Azumarill without forcing Rotom-H to switch out. If you prefer a higher paralysis chance, Discharge is also a reasonable option. Finally, Hidden Power Ice 2HKOes Garchomp and Mega Salamence, which is especially important if Rotom-H lacks Will-O-Wisp. If Rotom-H is carrying an Expert Belt and a Modest nature, it can actually OHKO these two, as well as 2HKO Hydreigon switch-ins.

Set Details
========

The most difficult choice for Rotom-H is which build to use. With a Calm nature and maximum HP and Special Defense investment, Rotom-H becomes a good Mega Charizard Y check and is able to take on Thundurus more reliably; it also allows Rotom-H to defeat Focus Sash Serperior when at full health and tank Sylveon's Hyper Voice. This also pairs nicely with Rotom-H's ability to burn physical attackers. However, if you'd prefer to take on Mega Mawile more reliably, a Bold nature with maximum HP and Defense investment is still a reasonable option. While Rotom-H won't check Mega Charizard Y as reliably, it will now take on Mega Salamence's Double-Edge better and take less damage from Pokemon with Rock-type attacks such as Garchomp and Landorus-T. When you're using a defensive nature, Sitrus Berry makes the most sense, since it can turn 2HKOs into 3HKOs, but Leftovers is a fine option if Sitrus Berry is already held by another teammate.

If you prefer to focus more on offense, consider running a Modest nature with Expert Belt. While Rotom-H isn't able to check Pokemon as reliably, this does allow it to OHKO Aegislash with Overheat. This also means that certain Rotom-H switch-ins are far less safe than usual. For example, Garchomp and Mega Salamence are now usually OHKOed by Hidden Power Ice, and Hydreigon is 2HKOed. Meanwhile, Thunderbolt now 2HKOes Assault Vest Azumarill. With a Modest nature, it's best to put the remaining 4 EVs in Special Defense to prevent Porygon2 from getting a Special Attack boost from Download.

Usage Tips
========

Usually, its best to switch Rotom-H into Pokemon it checks, such as Talonflame, Ferrothorn, Serperior (when using a Calm nature), and Thundurus. While Overheat fries Mega Mawile, note that Mega Mawile's Knock Off deals a huge amount of damage to Rotom-H that are Calm or Modest, so be careful about making Rotom-H your primary check to that Pokemon. Additionally, while Rotom-H checks Mega Charizard Y well, Mega Charizard X can set up on it, so switching into Charizard before it has Mega Evolved is extremely risky. While Rotom-H's Will-O-Wisp cripples Mega Kangaskhan, you should only force Rotom-H to handle that in emergencies, as Mega Kangaskhan is so strong that it'll 2HKO Rotom-H regardless of whether Will-O-Wisp connects or not. Finally, Modest Rotom-H is best sent in after a KO, as it is a bit frail compared to the defensive ones.

Using Volt Switch as much as possible is great for scouting your opponent's Pokemon choices, especially if Stealth Rock hasn't been set up on your side of the field. It's usually a good idea to use Volt Switch on non-threatening Pokemon that rarely stay in on Rotom-H, such as Talonflame, Ferrothorn, and Scizor. If you see physical Pokemon that use Rock-type moves such as Garchomp, Landorus-T, and Tyranitar in Team Preview, using Will-O-Wisp on Pokemon Rotom-H often forces out isn't a bad idea to nail these Pokemon on the switch. Note that while Overheat is Rotom-H's most powerful attack, it also makes Rotom-H very easy to set up on, so make sure that any setup sweeper that can take advantage of Overheat's Special Attack drop is manageable with the Pokemon you have chosen before using it.

Team Options
========

Pokemon with a Rock-type resistance are fairly important for Rotom-H, as such moves are a common way for physical attackers such as Tyranitar, Garchomp, and Landorus-T to hit Rotom-H hard. Water-type switch-ins are also important, because while Rotom-H hits most of them hard with Thunderbolt, special attacking Swampert, faster Water-types such as Greninja and Mega Gyarados, and Azumarill's Aqua Jet severely damage Rotom-H. Finally, watch out for special attacking Dragon-types such as Hydreigon or Latios, as they only fear Thunder Wave and Expert Belt-boosted Hidden Power Ice.

Because of these threats, Ferrothorn makes an excellent teammate for Rotom-H. Ferrothorn resists Rock-type attacks, is able to handle Choice-locked Dragon-type attacks, and handles most Water-type Pokemon fairly well. In return, Rotom-H can defeat Mega Charizard Y and Talonflame. Mega Venusaur makes a good teammate as well for similar reasons, and as a bonus, it is a more reliable check to Azumarill because of the Superpower resistance. Mega Mawile stands out as a Pokemon that greatly appreciates Rotom-H's support moves, with Thunder Wave allowing it to OHKO faster threats and Will-O-Wisp saving it from KOs from most offensive Ground-types. In return, Mega Mawile defeats most Tyranitar variants and takes on Dragon- and Rock-type attacks. Azumarill also works well, hitting Tyranitar hard (though it takes heavy damage from Stone Edge), being immune to Dragon-type attacks, defeating Mega Gyarados, and being able to set up on burned threats with Belly Drum. Rotom-H's Volt Switch is also great for switching Azumarill in to get a free Belly Drum. Conkeldurr tanks Rock-type moves and smashes Tyranitar fairly well, while Breloom works as a Focus Sash fighter that crushes Tyranitar and Azumarill. As a bonus, both of these Fighting-types appreciate Rotom-H zapping Talonflame. Mega Kangaskhan greatly benefits from Rotom-H's ability to deal with Ferrothorn and Talonflame and can set up on Pokemon Rotom-H has burned. Finally, Mega Salamence provides a Water-type resistance, checks Mega Venusaur, revenge kills slower Dragon Pokemon, and easily sets up on burned Pokemon thanks to its great physical bulk, while Rotom-H helps deal with Thundurus.

[SET]
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Overheat
move 2: Volt Switch
move 3: Hidden Power Ice
move 4: Trick / Thunderbolt
item: Choice Specs
ability: Levitate
nature: Modest / Timid
evs: 252 HP / 252 SpA / 4 SpD

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

Overheat's power is mouth watering when boosted by Choice Specs, being able to deep fry Aegislash in its Shield forme and deal massive damage to threats Rotom-H usually fails to, such as 2HKOing Mega Venusaur, and having a reasonable shot at OHKOing Hippowdon and Raikou with a Modest nature. It even deals over 50% to many Pokemon that resist it, such as Rotom-W, Hydreigon, and Garchomp. Volt Switch is a great and powerful scouting move with Choice Specs, having a great chance to OHKO Azumarill, almost always OHKOing Mega Charizard Y, and 2HKOing Rotom-W. Hidden Power Ice is Rotom-H's weapon against Dragon-types, OHKOing Garchomp and Mega Salamence and 2HKOing Hydreigon and Latios switch-ins. Trick is a great way to cripple defensive Pokemon such as Porygon2 and Cresselia, while Thunderbolt doesn't force Rotom-H to switch out, 2HKOes Heatran, and has a decent chance of OHKOing Suicune.

Set Details
========

All Choice Specs Rotom-H should run as many Special Attack EVs as possible, as getting OHKOs on Pokemon such as Aegislash is extremely important. The nature and the HP and Speed EVs are far more malleable. Maximum HP and 4 SpD EVs give Rotom-H good bulk while avoiding a Special Attack boost from Porygon2's Download.

If you want more Speed, a Modest spread of 76 HP / 24 Def / 252 SpA / 24 SpD / 132 Spe allows Rotom-H to outspeed Adamant Breloom. For outspeeding Jolly Breloom, run an EV spread of 76 HP / 24 Def / 180 SpA / 228 Spe. Finally, if you want to outspeed Jolly Gyarados, Mamoswine, and Dragonite, use a Timid nature and 76 HP / 24 Def / 188 SpA / 220 Spe. Note that all of these faster spreads are designed to avoid a 2HKO from Choice Band Talonflame while Stealth Rock is off the field, but these Rotom-H in general are more frail than usual.

Usage Tips
========

Using Volt Switch as much as possible is usually a great way to soften up Pokemon and scout your opponent's Pokemon choices, but if you see Ground-types in Team Preview, consider throwing out Hidden Power Ice to OHKO Garchomp and Landorus-T switch-ins and Overheat to smash Mamoswine, Landorus-T, and Excadrill switch-ins. Note that while Overheat deals tremendous damage, it also makes Rotom-H fairly easy to set up on after a KO. Similarly, Hidden Power Ice is extremely easy to set up on by Pokemon that aren't weak to it.

Rotom-H is somewhat frail even with maximum HP investment, so its usually best to switch it into defensive Pokemon such as Ferrothorn or after one of your Pokemon has been KOed. Rotom-H also makes a good lead because of this, being able to scout the opponent's choices early in the game. Double switching can also surprise Ground-types that were expecting a Volt Switch, putting momentum in your favor. If you see a team full of defensive Pokemon such as Porygon2 and Cresselia, Tricking them is a great way to pave the way for your more offensive Pokemon as long as you take into account the boost in power Choice Specs provides them (especially against offensive Porygon2).

Team Options
========

If possible, consider paralysis support to patch up Rotom-H's mediocre Speed, as this makes Rotom-H much more difficult to check. Porygon2 and Cresselia are among the most reliable users of Thunder Wave and can help check Ground-types. Serperior is a more offensive option that can paralyze Ground-types with Glare deal with Water-types with Leaf Storm.

Conkeldurr is a huge help against the dreaded Tyranitar, and it appreciates Rotom-H's ability to OHKO Aegislash and Talonflame. Meanwhile, Azumarill can defeat Tyranitar and switch freely into Dragon-type attacks. Aegislash also has good synergy with Rotom-H, luring in Ground- and Fire-type moves to switch Rotom-H into, while Rotom-H severely hurts Gengar leads and OHKOes opposing Aegislash. Mega Mawile provides similar luring powers and benefits greatly from Rotom-H's immunity to Will-O-Wisp. Ground-types such as Garchomp, Mamoswine, and Excadrill can maim Tyranitar switch-ins and generally handle its Rock-type attacks.

Consider Pokemon that can take advantage of the free switches Volt Switch offers. Greninja is a fantastic example, often being able to KO Pokemon Rotom-H has softened up. Landorus-T and Scizor are notable for being able to use U-turn to further the switching antics. Focus Sash Pokemon such as Breloom and Garchomp become far more deadly when they get a free switch, while Dragonite can retain its Multiscale if Stealth Rock isn't up.

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Volt Switch
move 2: Overheat
move 3: Hidden Power Ice
move 4: Trick / Thunderbolt
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid / Modest
evs: 76 HP / 24 Def / 188 SpA / 220 Spe

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

Volt Switch is an excellent move on Choice Scarf Rotom-H, allowing it to escape before it's hit by an attack and scout what Pokemon your opponent has chosen to switch to. Overheat is Rotom-H's most powerful attack, destroying Ferrothorn, Mega Mawile, and Scizor and OHKOing Greninja that have turned into an Ice-type. Hidden Power Ice is rather weak, but it does 2HKO Garchomp and Mega Salamence while also 3HKOing Hydreigon. Trick is great for crippling walls such as Porygon2 and Cresselia, while Thunderbolt is a reliable Electric-type attack that doesn't force Rotom-H to switch out.

Set Details
========

The listed EV spread and Timid nature allow Rotom-H to outspeed Gyarados and Dragonite after they have used Dragon Dance, while surviving two hits of Choice Band Talonflame's Brave Bird as long as Stealth Rock isn't set up. You can use a Modest nature with the same spread to have more power and still outspeed Mega Gengar, but this removes Rotom-H's ability to pick off weakened Mega Gyarados.

Usage Tips
========

Near the early parts of the game, Rotom-H will like to use Volt Switch as much as possible to scout the opponent's Pokemon and soften them up for its teammates. However, this can be punished harshly by Ground-type Pokemon, so using Hidden Power Ice on predicted Garchomp switch-ins and using Overheat on Ground-type switch-ins can work in your favor. Just note that Overheat and Hidden Power Ice make Rotom-H extremely vulnerable against setup sweepers. If you're team can't handle a large number of Volt Switch-immune foes or Rotom-H getting set up on by a certain threat in your opponent's team, it might be best to bench Rotom-H.

Try to be sly about Choice Scarf Rotom-H's true nature, as Choice Scarf can be a nasty surprise to many Pokemon. Try to avoid obvious plays such as switching Rotom-H into Garchomp to use Hidden Power Ice, and instead switch Rotom-H into Pokemon it usually checks such as Ferrothorn. This lets Rotom-H get surprise revenge kills on threats it normally can't deal with well, such as Greninja and Mega Lucario. This also makes walls more comfortable with switching into Rotom-H, allowing you to cripple them with Trick.

Team Options
========

It's best to prepare for the large number of sweepers that can set up once Rotom-H has used Overheat. Major examples include Azumarill, Volcarona, Dragonite, Garchomp, Mega Charizard X, and Mega Salamence. Tyranitar is also a massive problem for Rotom-H, as it completely walls Rotom-H. Specially attacking Dragon-types such as Hydreigon and Latios also tend to wall Rotom-H. Azumarill is great teammate here, taking on Dragon Dance Mega Charizard X and Tyranitar and revenge killing weakened Volcarona with Aqua Jet. Mega Altaria helps against Mega Charizard X, Tyranitar, Volcarona, and Hydreigon. Zapdos does a good job dealing with Azumarill and can use Thunder Wave to surprise Volcarona, Mega Charizard X, and Hydreigon switch-ins. While it has poor typing synergy with Rotom-H, Choice Band Talonflame smashes Volcarona and KOes Azumarill after it has used Belly Drum. Conkeldurr hits Tyranitar with Drain Punch and can revenge kill weakened Hydreigon with Mach Punch, while Breloom trades bulk for being an excellent Focus Sash user that defeats Tyranitar and Azumarill and can even badly hurt Mega Charizard X with Rock Tomb + Mach Punch if it has a Focus Sash intact. Garchomp, Landorus-T, and Mamoswine check Tyranitar, and all 3 can run Focus Sashes to solve Rotom-H's setup bait woes. Finally, Mega Venusaur does a great job against Water-types and is one of the best Azumarill counters in the game.

Since Choice Scarf Rotom-H has a habit of crippling walls with Trick, consider Pokemon that benefit from Cresselia, Porygon2, Suicune, and other bulky Pokemon being far less effective at checking threats. Great offensive Pokemon to consider here include Garchomp, Mega Kangaskhan, Mega Salamence, Dragonite, and Mega Gyarados.

[SET]
name: Substitute
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Overheat
move 3: Will-O-Wisp / Toxic
move 4: Discharge / Thunderbolt
item: Leftovers
ability: Levitate
nature: Calm / Timid
evs: 156 HP / 220 SpD / 132 Spe

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

Substitute is great for allowing Rotom-H to avoid Toxic and Breloom's deadly Spores. It also scouts your opponent's Pokemon if Rotom-H can force them out and saves Rotom-H from getting revenge killed by Mega Mawile's Sucker Punch without relying on Will-O-Wisp. Overheat might have poor synergy with Substitute, but being able to smash Mega Mawile, Ferrothorn, and Scizor is far too valuable to give up. Will-O-Wisp lets Rotom-H burn physical Pokemon, which is especially valuable after a use of Overheat. If you're more interested in dealing with walls, Toxic does a good job of wearing them down and ironically makes Rotom-H a great check to most opposing Rotom-H. Discharge works great as Rotom-H's Electric-type attack, as the 30% paralysis rate gives Rotom-H more chances to use Substitute. Thunderbolt does have more power, however, giving Rotom-H a reasonable chance of OHKOing Greninja while it's a Water-type and a reasonable chance to 2HKO Blaziken, stunts that are much safer to attempt when behind a Substitute.

Set Details
========

Leftovers should always be run, as it will usually increase the number of Substitutes Rotom-H can make. The HP EVs allow Rotom-H to restore the most health possible from Leftovers while avoiding a 2HKO from Focus Sash Garchomp's Rock Tomb 98% of the time. The Speed EVs let Rotom-H outspeed Adamant Breloom, and the Calm nature and Special Defense EVs allow Rotom-H to take on Mega Charizard Y and take as little damage from the sound attacks that Rotom-H resists as possible.

A Timid nature is also viable with an EV spread of 156 HP / 132 SpD / 220 Spe, which is designed to outspeed Jolly Gyarados, Dragonite, and Mamoswine and lets Rotom-W survive two Sludge Bombs from offensive Mega Gengar most of the time.

Usage Tips
========

Be careful about switching Rotom-H in, because while this set focus on bulk, any heavy damage Rotom-H takes is going to reduce the number of Substitutes it can make. Try to switch Rotom-H on Pokemon it safely checks such as Ferrothorn and Scizor or after one of your Pokemon gets KOed against a foe that will likely switch out, such as Mega Mawile or Talonflame. You don't have to constantly use Substitute if it doesn't fit the flow of the match, either; sometimes it's best to just burn switch-ins with Will-O-Wisp and keep Rotom-H's health up.

Team Options
========

Make sure to pack Pokemon with a Rock-type resistance, as most users of such moves tend to be faster than Rotom-H. Mega Heracross in particular can smash through Rotom-H's Substitutes with Rock Blast. Specially attacking Dragon-types such as Hydreigon and Latios can take anything that isn't Toxic and threaten to deal some serious damage, while Mega Charizard X sets up on Rotom-H. While Water-types are an extremely risky switch-in due to Substitute and Electric STAB type, they can switch in on Overheat and wreak havoc. Calm Mind Suicune and Raikou are especially problematic in this case, as this Rotom-H is too weak to defeat them once they start setting up.

These problems make Ferrothorn an incredible partner. Ferrothorn resists Rock- and Water-type attacks, can take on Choice-locked Dragon-types, and, most of all, can use Leech Seed to restore some of Rotom-H's health. Mega Venusaur also works, being one of the best counters to Azumarill in the game. Serperior outpaces Calm Mind Suicune and can use a Focus Sash set to hit Dragon-types hard with a boosted Dragon Pulse. Breloom smashes through Azumarill and Tyranitar and can snipe weakened Hydreigon and hit Mega Charizard X hard with Rock Tomb if it has its Focus Sash intact. In return, Rotom-H helps these four Grass-types deal with Talonflame and Mega Salamence. A Calm Mind Raikou of your own is also helpful against Calm Mind Suicune and is hard for the special attacking Dragon-types to stop. Choice Scarf Garchomp does a great job against Mega Charizard X, Raikou, Dragonite, and Tyranitar in particular.

Consider using some setup sweepers to take advantage of Rotom-H's burning capabilities. Belly Drum Azumarill is an excellent choice, since it's so hard to stop its setup once physical attackers are burned. Mega Salamence and Mega Gyarados also synergize well with Rotom-H. Toxic support Pokemon allow Rotom-H to effectively outstall most walls. Porygon2 and Cresselia are reliable users of Toxic, but Aegislash and Mega Salamence are also great choices, since they lure in defensive Pokemon to handle them. You can even use Toxic Spikes Greninja to threaten Toxic damage for entire teams.

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

Rotom-H doesn't have many viable options that haven't been covered already. Reflect and Light Screen can be used with Light Clay to help setup sweepers, but giving up two moveslots is often too much for Rotom-H. Hex can be paired with Thunder Wave or Will-O-Wisp to smash Mega Gengar without Overheat, but it is otherwise weaker than Rotom-H's Electric STAB move. If you really dislike Swampert and Rhyperior, you can run Hidden Power Grass, but otherwise it's a wasted moveslot compared to Hidden Power Ice. Confuse Ray has synergy with Substitute, but it is much more luck based than Will-O-Wisp or Toxic.

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

**Dragon-types**: Hydreigon, Latios, Mega Latias, and Mega Altaria only really fear Choice Specs-boosted Hidden Power Ice and can otherwise use Rotom-H as setup bait or slam it with their STAB moves. Facade Mega Salamence sets up without fear of Will-O-Wisp, while Dragonite sets up especially easily if it has Lum Berry. Mega Charizard X is immune to Will-O-Wisp, so it will set up on Rotom-H unless Rotom-H has Thunder Wave.

**Tyranitar and Rhyperior**: Tyranitar's Rock typing and Sand Stream make it a real nightmare for Rotom-H, only fearing Will-O-Wisp. Even then, Rotom-H gets smashed by Rock Slide and Stone Edge. Assault Vest Rhyperior also avoids a 2HKO from Rotom-H and can even use Rock Blast to muscle past its Substitutes.

**Facade Mega Kangaskhan**: Mega Kangaskhan already usually OHKOes Rotom-H, but Facade means Mega Kangaskhan doesn't even fear Will-O-Wisp.

**Bulky Fire-types**: Calm Heatran avoids a 2HKO from even Choice Specs Rotom-H and can cripple Rotom-H with Toxic as long as it avoids Trick. Assault Vest Entei is extremely bulky and hits Rotom-H hard with Stone Edge. While Volcarona is OHKOed by Choice Specs-boosted Overheat, it can otherwise use Rotom-H to set up Quiver Dance.

**Stealth Rock**: Stealth Rock strips away 25% of Rotom-H's HP, which is especially punishing because Rotom-H often switches out due to Volt Switch and Overheat. Common users of Stealth Rock include Garchomp, Hippowdon, Tyranitar, Landorus-T, and Swampert.

**Offensive Ground-types**: Garchomp in particular easily takes Overheat and Electric moves and slams Rotom-H with Rock-type attacks, though it can't take Hidden Power Ice well. Landorus-T takes heavy damage from Overheat and Hidden Power Ice but can otherwise hit Rotom-H even harder with Rock-type attacks. Excadrill gets OHKOed by Overheat, but its Mold Breaker ability allows it to OHKO Rotom-H with Earthquake. All of these Pokemon also heavily punish constant uses of Volt Switch, especially if Rotom-H is Choice-locked.

**Mega Venusaur**: Thick Fat allows specially defensive Mega Venusaur to wall Rotom-H. Offensive and physically defensive Mega Venusaur also do well against Rotom-H, but they are 2HKOed by Choice Specs-boosted Overheat.

**Offensive Water-types**: Azumarill, Rotom-W, Greninja, and Gyarados all hit Rotom-H hard, but all of them hate Electric-type moves.

**Swampert**: Swampert only fears Will-O-Wisp if it's physically based, as it otherwise slams Rotom-H with its Water-type attacks, and can set up Stealth Rock or use Yawn fairly easily.

**Raikou**: Raikou gets beaten down hard by Choice Specs-boosted Overheat, but it can otherwise use Rotom-H as setup bait with Calm Mind and can use Substitute to soak up the first Overheat.

**Chansey and Blissey **: As long as they avoid Trick, Chansey and Blissey totally wall Rotom-H with their massive Special Defense.

**Conkeldurr**: Assault Vest Conkeldurr uses Guts to absorb Will-O-Wisp and smack Rotom-H hard with a boosted Drain Punch. It only fears Choice Specs-boosted Overheat.

**Toxic Rotom-H**: In an ironic twist, opposing Rotom-H can sabotage your own Rotom-H with Toxic as long as you don't run Substitute.
 
Last edited:

Theorymon

Have a wonderful day, wahoo!
is a Site Content Manageris a Forum Moderatoris a Community Contributoris a Smogon Discord Contributoris a Pokemon Researcheris a Top Contributoris a Top Smogon Media Contributoris a Social Media Contributor Alumnusis a Community Leader Alumnusis a CAP Contributor Alumnusis a Battle Simulator Moderator Alumnus
Moderator
OK Quality Chefs, the ingredients are laid out before you, but I can't help but feel like we need something more to this recipe, we need to look over this before its time to bake this cake!

Currently, the biggest thing to address is the whole Expert Belt thing. Me and NOVED talked about splitting it from the "tank set" and making it into Tank and Defensive, but they do run the same moves and play pretty simiarly at times. Expert Belt has a bit more usage than Scarf, and it gets some very important KOs against stuff like Aegislash, Azumarill, Garchomp, Mega Salamence, and Hydreigon, so its certainly above other options! I'm just not sure if it should be split or not.

I probably also forgot some teammates, I usually am in the mindset of using Rotom-H to support mons, so thinking the other way around was a bit different for me!

Highlighting the Battle Spot Singles Kitchen Crew: Hulavuta cant say NOVED Psynergy Demantoid DragonWhale bobochan
 
Just quoting this from the PS chat so you dont forget. :p

Code:
[03:27:58] +Nelson Tangela ☾: the defensive set has a lot more threats though
[03:28:08] +Nelson Tangela ☾: careful facade mence uses you as set up bait
[03:28:19] +Nelson Tangela ☾: facade kang too
[03:28:35] Scuzzy: Facade kang o.o
[03:29:47] Theorymon: I added Heatran and Chansey
[03:29:58] Theorymon: yeah I guess random facade stuff is a bitch
[03:30:05] +Nelson Tangela ☾: conkeldurr is another bitch
[03:30:20] Theorymon: man sometimes I wish I could
[03:30:29] Theorymon: organize checks by set
[03:30:38] Theorymon: I dont think C&C would let me do that except for Charizard
[03:30:45] Theorymon: cuz then here I wouldnt have to be like
[03:30:58] Theorymon: "checks defense but its 2HKOed by Specs"for so many mons lol
[03:31:16] +Nelson Tangela ☾: ass vest entei is another bitch and about as common as chansey
[03:31:26] Theorymon: actually I think its more common than Chansey
[03:31:31] Theorymon: actually just post this stuff so I dont forget lol
[03:32:22] +Nelson Tangela ☾: chansey is #51, entei is #53 according to the stats site
[03:32:55] Theorymon: oh fuck that must have changed near the end of that season
[03:33:06] Theorymon: last season when I checked Entei was just a bit above Chansey
[03:33:16] Theorymon: but yeah post that stuff if you can Nelson Tangela
[03:33:23] Theorymon: you aren't QC but I still appreciate your input
[03:33:32] +Nelson Tangela ☾: as you wish
 

bobochan

slow mo my bobo
is a Contributor Alumnusis a Battle Simulator Moderator Alumnus
[OVERVIEW]

Having to rely on Overheat as a Fire-type STAB move gives your opponent a free turn to set up.

[SET]
name: Tank

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

Discharge has less power, but it can paralyze.
Thunderbolt can paralyze also, so it would be more correct to say "has higher chance to paralyze".

Set Details
========

Very minor:
244 HP (or any even number) lets you proc Sitrus Berry after 2 SR switch in's.
When going the Defense or Special Attack route, allocating the remaining 4 EVs to Special Defense prevents Porygon2 from gaining a Download (SpA) boost.


Usage Tips
========

-Be careful about switching into MCY: Rotom-H does well against that, but it does poorly against MCX.
I think you meant " Be careful about switching into Charizard: Rotom-H does well against MCY, but it does poorly against MCX."?

Team Options
========

When talking about Mega Venusaur, Conkeldurr and Breloom, mention that they all appreciate Rotom-H's ability to freely switch into Talonflame.
Mega Salamence is a great teammate, for Rotom-W's ability to switch into Mamoswine and Thundurus.


[SET]
name: Choice Specs

4 EVs in SpA rather than Spe helps with Download (unless it's not really important).

Team Options
========

Aegislash has good synergy with Rotom-H (as Rotom-H resists Fire, immune to Ground). In return, Specs Rotom-H OHKOs Mega Gengar, Aegislash, cripples defensive threats with Trick.
Similarly, other Steel-types like Mega Mawile are also fantastic here as Rotom-H makes a fantastic status absorber for Mawile.
Greninja is an offensive powerhouse and the things it cannot break through are crippled by Rotom-H's Trick.


[SET]
name: Choice Scarf

Usage Tips
========

Works well against things that normally outspeed Rotom-H so Serperior, Greninja and Mega Lucario (surprise factor).

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

**Raikou**: Can set up Calm Mind on every set only fearing Trick from Choice Scarf.

**Tyranitar**: Stone Edge.

Minor thing but you can have a Mold Breaker category and move Excadrill from offensive Ground-types and put it with Mega Gyarados and possibly Haxorus.


1/3
 

Psynergy

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I actually had plans to do Rotom-H for awhile but never got around to using it as much as I'd wanted to. This makes it easier to suggest things though.

[OVERVIEW]

- May seem like worse Rotom-W, but unique typing lets it handle threats that Rotom-W doesn't, like MCY, Ferrothorn, and Breloom. I'd personally mention Thundurus, pivoting in and out against Thundurus is one of the bigger advantages I think of with Rotom-H, since it can't do too much to you without like NP Focus Blast.

[SET]
name: Tank
move 1: Volt Switch
move 2: Overheat
move 3: Will-O-Wisp / Thunder Wave
move 4: Thunderbolt / Discharge / Hidden Power Ice
item: Sitrus Berry / Expert Belt
ability: Levitate
nature: Calm / Modest
evs: 244 HP / 4 Def / 4 SpA / 252 SpD / 4 Spe

Set Details
========

-Sitrus Berry lets you take an extra hit often, Leftovers is a good replacement when thats used on another mon. Don't forget to slash Leftovers, you mention it here but it's not listed above. I'd list it before Expert Belt, maybe even before Sitrus? It gets more usage but I personally like Sitrus more.

Team Options
========

- Water resists are to a lesser extent, while Tbolt hurts them (except Swampert), Rotom-W has big issues with Swampert and faster offensive Water-types like Greninja and Mega Gyarados, and also gets hit hard by Azumarill Aqua Jet. Which resists do you have in mind here? Ferrothorn and Venusaur definitely but you mention them further down. I'd make sure they're the first mentions after this sentence when you write this up.

[SET]
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Overheat
move 2: Volt Switch
move 3: Hidden Power Ice
move 4: Trick / Thunderbolt
item: Choice Specs
ability: Levitate
nature: Modest / Timid
evs: 252 HP / 252 SpA / 4 SpD

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

-Overheat hurts like hell with Specs, OHKOing bulky Steel-types like Aegislash! Also has a 75% chance to OHKO Hippowdon. Might be worth mentioning this last bit is with Modest.

Usage Tips
========

Mention locking into HP Ice can give your opponent super easy setup so be careful when clicking HP Ice.

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Volt Switch
move 2: Overheat
move 3: Hidden Power Ice
move 4: Trick / Thunderbolt
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid / Modest
evs: 76 HP / 24 Def / 196 SpA / 220 Spe

Usage Tips
========

Note that bringing Rotom-H in against Dragons can make it too obvious you're Scarf so be careful when doing so, especially if the opponent can abuse being locked into HP Ice.

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

I think it'd be better to compress these checks and counters into slightly broader groups when possible instead of just listing them all individually. I'll let you figure out how you want to do that but for some possible approaches, I think:

- Dragons should probably all be under one group instead of being spread across special dragons, Facade Mence, Zard X and Dragonite
- Water types could probably be compressed into a bigger section with a note about how most of them still hate Electric moves.

- Fires with good SpDef like AV Entei, Volcarona and AV Heatran could also be compressed I think.


That's all I've got though, it'll probably be easier to see what else should be fixed after writing this up but for now I think this is good enough for the check.

2/3
 

Theorymon

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Ok Psynergy implemented your stuff! As we talked about on PS, we decided to make Expert Belt the third slash since it has significant usage.

Now we do have something new to talk about QC... the newly added Substitute set. Me and NOVED looked through stats and top teams, and found that Substitute Rotom-H is a growing trend and has made appearances on several top teams (in fact Sub usage almost matches Trick now). Its pretty hard to ignore it, so I made it the last set. I want at least two QC members to look it over before I begin writing. After people check that set, I'll get straight to writing this!
 

bobochan

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[SET]
name: Substitute
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Toxic / Will-O-Wisp
move 3: Overheat / Hidden Power Ice
move 4: Discharge / Thunderbolt
item: Leftovers
ability: Levitate
nature: Calm / Timid
evs: 156 HP / 220 SpD / 132 Spe

We discussed this a bit on PS, posting here just in case you forget.
Toxic is an option to wear down things with reliable recovery, such as MCX, Cresselia and Porygon2.
For the slashes, I think Toxic will go nicely with Overheat, since the Steel-types immune to being worn down are OHKO/2HKO'ed by it.
Will-O-Wisp works nicely with Hidden Power Ice. The reason I brought up HP Ice is that staying behind a sub at -2 and only having to rely on status to deal damage can leave you in an tight spot.
The set reminds me a bit of CM Raikou, except the advantages it has over Raikou is that it can burn stuff and is immune to Earthquake!


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

When you talk about Thunderbolt, it does have some benefits over Discharge, like having the chance to 2HKO Blaziken on the switch, while almost OHKOing Greninja in return (something which Discharge fails at).
Defensive Calcs
252 SpA Life Orb Greninja Surf vs. 156 HP / 220+ SpD Rotom-H: 125-148 (86.2 - 102%) -- 6.3% chance to OHKO
Offensive Calcs
0 SpA Rotom-H Thunderbolt vs. 0 HP / 0 SpD Blaziken: 72-85 (46.4 - 54.8%) -- 61.3% chance to 2HKO
0 SpA Rotom-H Thunderbolt vs. 0 HP / 0 SpD Greninja: 140-168 (95.2 - 114.2%) -- 68.8% chance to OHKO


Team Options
========

As far as teammate goes, you would want something to deal with CM users, like Suicune, which can CM infront of Rotom-H, rest up and go for a few more rounds of CM. Serperior would be fantastic here to deal with it.
Scarf Chomp is nice against CM Raikou, MCX and Dragonite that tries to set up on Rotom-H.


Comments
========

The rest of the stuff looks pretty sweet to me.
Although not part of QC, Nelson has been rather helpful recently so I'm pretty sure he will lend you a hand if you need it.
 
For the sub set, from the teams i've seen it seems a common trend is having some set up sweepers on the team so I think making some mentions of that in team options is a good idea. Things like Mega Salamence, mega gyara, maybe even azumarill and mawile. I think since rotom-h also beats thund pretty good its a super nice teammate for fast set up sweepers. For mence, it also dumpsters mamo pretty good so that's nice.

Since this set will be spreading around burns and paras from will-o/discharge I think Hex Mega Gengar would make a really nice teammate.

I think other things with toxic/sub could probably do similar things as rotom, and rotom can abuse the toxic that its teammates spread around with its sub. So like toxic cress/p2 could be cool maybe. This might be a bit weird but ive seen toxic spike greninja get some usage on a few high rated teams in the past and i think that may be a cool teammate. SubToxic mence is another good one.

ferrothorn is in the tank teammates so thats good but i would make a special note that getting rotom in against a pokemon that is leech seeded can be pretty awesome

In the moves section for Discharge, mention that the para chances synergizes pretty nicely with Sub because if it goes off on something faster it's really handy so that Rotom can sub safely before they attack, and also taking advantage of 'free turns' is great behind sub.

In set details when you mention putting the rest in spdef, I'd mention that it's pretty nice since all common sound moves(cause they go through sub) are special and rotom-h can take them on pretty well(Flying/Fairy Hyper Voice, Bug Buzz)

Also i dont like slashing toxic over will-o as from all the teams i saw will-o was the preferred status and i think it is generally better to fuck over physical attackers. this set doesnt go super hard with stalling status with sub+protect so toxic isnt really necessary. maybe a slash after will-o but no huge mentions or anything IMO.



btw in general in this analysis for the other sets too i think mence should have more mentions in team options. it has been one of rotom-h's most common teammates(usually #2 or #3) pretty consistently for a while.
 

Theorymon

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Ok implemented stuff!

bobochan NOVED , looking at Toxic's usage, I'll slash it in, but only after WoW. If it means much, I have seen Sub Toxic Rotom-H used successfully before (basically the times Ive seen it, it totally fucked up my Porygon2 and Raikou lol). That being said, WoW is the better choice for most teams so I feel that I'm not gonna talk about Toxic too much beyond the fact that it can cripple some unexpected stuff. Also, I don't think I'm going to slash HP Ice after Overheat, since I feel that while Overheat is odd on a Sub user, getting rid of it misses out on OHKOing Ferrothorn and Mega Mawile, which I feel is a very important selling point to Rotom-H in general.

Anyways, I'll start baking this soon! I'll try to get the writing done by tomorrow before I go to New York City / New Jersey (in case my wifi time is really limited).
 

Theorymon

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I finished cooking up the write up for Rotom-H! Just need a QC member to give this one last taste before this goes into GP!
 
[OVERVIEW]

Rotom-H may not seem as gourmet as Rotom-W, but thanks to its unique typing, Rotom-H brings something unique to the dinner table! Rotom-H's resistances to Grass, Eectric, and Fire, and access to a STAB Overheat, means it is able to cook threats that Rotom-H couldn't even dream of handling, such as Ferrothorn, Breloom, Serperior, and Mega Charizard Y and Aegislash. Rotom-H's Fairy-type resist also means that it can handle Mega Mawile more reliably than Rotom-W. Rotom-H can even use its typing to piviot in and out of Thundurus. Much like Rotom-W, Rotom-H also has access to a delicious but concise movepool, with access to the all important Volt Switch that allows it to become an effective scout, and access to scrumptious support moves such as Will-O-Wisp, Thunder Wave, and Trick.

[SET]
name: Tank
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

Volt Switch is a tasty scouting move on Rotom-H, allowing you to peer into what Pokemon your opponent has chosen, and gain an edge with a better match up. Overheat is Rotom-H's strongest STAB, letting it toast Ferrothorn and Mega Mawile. It even OHKOs Aegislash if you are carrying an Expert Belt with a Modest nature. Will-O-Wisp is great for Tyranitar, Azumarill, and Garchomp switch-ins, and helps against Mega Mawile that may attempt to Sucker Punch Rotom-H. Thunder Wave is a reasonable alternative, punishing Mega Charizard X, Volcarona, and Blaziken (after Overheat)(it sounds like you are saying you should twave after overheat, this is a little confusing) for attempting to use Rotom-H as set up bait, and dealing with Hydreigon switch-ins as well. In general, Will-O-Wisp and Thunder Wave allow Rotom-H to punish Pokemon that attempt to set up on it after Overheat.

Set Details
========

The most difficult choice for Rotom-H is to decide which build to use. With a Calm nature and maximum HP and Special Defense, Rotom-H becomes a good Mega Charizard Y check, and is able to take on Thundurus more reliably, and allows Rotom-H to defeat Focus Sash Serperior when at full health(also helps take sylveon Hyper Voices). This also pairs nicely with Rotom-H's ability to burn physical attackers. However, if you'd prefer to take on Mega Mawile more reliably, a Bold nature with maximum HP and Defense is still a reasonable option. While you won't check Mega Charizard Y as reliably, you will now take on Mega Salamence's Double-Edge better, and also take less damage from Ground-types such as Garchomp and Landorus-T. When using a defensive nature, Sitrus Berry makes the most sense, since it can turn 2HKOs into 3HKOs, but Leftovers is a fine option if Sitrus Berry is already held by another teammate.

Usage Tips
========

Volt Switching as much as possible is great for scouting your opponent's Pokemon choices, especially if Stealth Rock hasn't been set up. It's usually a good idea to use Volt Switch on non threatening Pokemon that rarely stay in on Rotom-H, such as Ferrothorn and Scizor(and Talonflame). If you see physical Pokemon that use Rock-type moves such as Garchomp, Landorus-T, or Tyranitar in team preview, Will-O-Wisping on Pokemon Rotom-H often forces out isn't a bad idea to nail these Pokemon on the switch. Note that while Overheat is Rotom-H's most powerful attack, it also makes Rotom-H very easy to set up on, so make sure that any set up sweeper that can take advantage of Overheat's Special Attack drop is manageable with the Pokemon you have chosen before using it.

Team Options
========

Because of these threats, Ferrothorn makes an excellent teammate for Rotom-H. Ferrothorn resists Rock-type attacks, is able to handle choiced Dragon-type attacks, and handles most Water-type Pokemon fairly well. In return, Rotom-H can defeat Mega Charizard Y and Talonflame. Mega Venusaur makes a good teammate as well for similar reasons, and as a bonus, is a more reliable check to Azumarill because of the Superpower resist. Mega Mawile stands out as a Pokemon who greatly appreciates Rotom-H's support moves, with Thunder Wave allowing it to OHKO faster threats, and Will-O-Wisp saving it from KOs from most offensive Ground-types. In return, Mega Mawile defeats most Tyranitar, and takes on Dragon and Rock-type attacks. Azumarill also works well, hitting Tyranitar hard (though it takes heavy damage from Stone Edge), is immune to Dragon-type attacks, and defeats Mega Gyarados, and being able to set up on burned threats with Belly Drum.(i would also mention that because azu deals with all these rotom checks, volt switching into it to get a free turn to belly drum can be really good) Conkeldurr tanks Rock-type moves and smashes Tyranitar fairly well, while Breloom works as a Focus Sash fighter that crushes Tyranitar and Azumarill. As a bonus, both of these Fighting-types appreciate Rotom-H zapping Talonflame. Finally, Mega Salamence provides a Water-type resistance, checks Mega Venusaur, revenges slower Dragon Pokemon, and easily sets up on burned Pokemon thanks to its great physical bulk.(and Rotom-H can deal with Thundurus for it)

i would mention rotom-h can be a good teammate for kanga, being able to deal with ferrothorn for it and can switch in on tflame so kanga doesnt have to get wisp'd


[SET]
name: Choice Specs

Usage Tips
========

Using Volt Switch as much as possible is usually a great way to soften up Pokemon and scout your opponent's Pokemon choices, but if you see Ground-types in team preview, consider throwing how Hidden Power Ice to OHKO Garchomp switch-ins, and Overheat to saute Mamoswine, Landorus-T(i would put lando in the hp ice list with garchomp since hp ice is technically kinda safer if you are predicting it since its 100% accurate), and Excadrill switch-ins. Note that while Overheat deals tremendous damage, it also makes Rotom-H fairly easy to set up on after a KO. For similar reasons, Hidden Power Ice is extremely easy to set up on with Pokemon that aren't weak to it.

Rotom-H is somewhat frail even with maximum HP, so its usually best to switch it into defensive Pokemon such as Ferrothorn, or after one of your Pokemon has been KOed(leading with it is also nice for the same reasons, and being able to potentially scout immediately and gain some early momentum with v switch). Double switching can also surprise Ground-types that were expecting a Volt Switch, putting momentum in your favor. If you see a team full of defensive Pokemon such as Porygon2 and Cresselia, Tricking them is a great way to pave the way for your more offensive Pokemon as long as you take into account the boost in power Choice Specs provides them(which actually can be scary sometimes if p2 gets a spA boost).

Team Options
========

If possible, consider paralysis support to patch up Rotom-H's mediocre speed, as this makes Rotom-H much more difficult to check. Porygon2 and Cresselia are among the most reliable users of Thunder Wave, and can help check Ground-types. Thundurus is a more offensive option that can hit Water-types hard(i would take this out, i think having thundurus and rotom-h on the same team is kinda questionable as they stack a lot of coverage and weaknesses), while Serperior can do the same and paralyze Ground-types with Glare.

Conkeldurr is a huge help against the dreaded Tyranitar, while it appreciates Rotom-H's ability to OHKO Aegislash and Talonflame. Meanwhile, as long as Azumarill avoids Tyranitar's Stone Edge(lol i would not use avoiding a move as a valuable quality, but azu can still live a stone edge), it can defeat that and switch freely into Dragn-type attacks. Aegislash also has good synergy, luring in Ground and Fire-type moves to switch Rotom-H into, while Rotom-H severely hurts Gengar leads and OHKOs opposing Aegislash. Mega Mawile provides similar luring powers, and benefits greatly from Rotom-H's immunity to Will-O-Wisp. Ground-types such as Garchomp, Mamoswine, and Excadrill can maim Tyranitar switch ins and generally handle its Rock-type attacks.

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf

Usage Tips
========

Try to be sly about Choice Scarf Rotom-H's true nature, as Choice Scarf can be a nasty surprise to many Pokemon. Try to avoid obvious plays such as switching Rotom-H into Garchomp to use Hidden Power Ice, and instead, switch Rotom-H into Pokemon it usually checks such as Ferrothorn. This lets Rotom-H get surprise revenge kills on threats it normally can't deal with well, such as Greninja, Mega Lucario, and offensive Serperior(rotom-h usually deals with serp pretty easy, LO has a chance to 2hko but LO is super uncommon, most serps are sash or helmet). This also makes walls more comfortable with switching into Rotom-H, allowing you to cripple them with Trick.

Team Options
========

Its best to prepare for the large amount of sweepers that can set up once Rotom-H has used Overheat. Major examples include Azumarill, Volcarona, Dragonite, Garchomp, Mega Charizard X, and Mega Salamence. Tyranitar is also a massive problem for Rotom-H, as it completely walls it. Special attacking Dragons such as Hydreigon and Latios also tend to wall Rotom-H. Azumarill is great teammate here, taking on Dragon Dance Mega Charizard X, Tyranitar, and revenge killing weakened Volcarona with Aqua Jet. Mega Altaria helps against Mega Charizard X, Tyranitar, and Volcarona, and Hydreigon as well. Zapdos does a good job dealing with Azumarill, and can use Thunder Wave to surprise Volcarona, Mega Charizard X, and Hydreigon switch-ins. While it has poor typing snyergy with Rotom-H, Talonflame smashes Volcarona and KOs Azumarill after it has use Belly Drum(with a choice band). Conkeldurr Drain Punches Tyranitar and can revenge kill weakened Hydreigon with Mach Punch, while Breloom trades bulk for being an excellent Focus Sash user that defeats Tyranitar, Azumarill, and can even badly hurt Mega Charizard X with Rock Tomb + Mach Punch if it has a Focus Sash intact. Garchomp, Landorus-T, and Mamoswine check Tyranitar, and all 3 can run Focus Sashes to solve Rotom-H's set up bait woes. Finally, Mega Venusaur does a great job against Water-types, and is one of the best Azumarill counters in the game.

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

Rotom-H doesn't have many viable options that haven't been covered already. Reflect and Light Screen can be used with Light Clay to help set up sweepers, but taking up two moveslots is often too much for Rotom-H. Hex can be paired with Thunder Wave or Will-O-Wisp to smash Mega Gengar without Overheat, but is otherwise weaker than your Electric STAB. If you really dislike Swampert and Rhyperior, you can run Hidden Power Grass, but otherwise its a wasted moveslot compared to Hidden Power Ice.
Maybe mention Confuse Ray? It sees a fair amount of usage and could be nice with the sub set.

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

**Offensive Ground-types**: Garchomp in particular handles Overheat and Electric moves, and slams Rotom-H with Rock-type attacks, though it can't take Hidden Power Ice well(mention it often runs sash so can handle one hp ice). Landorus-T takes heavy damage from Overheat and Hidden Power Ice, but can otherwise hit Rotom-H even harder with Rock-type attacks. Excadrill gets OHKOed by Overheat, but its Mold Breaker ability allows it to OHKO Rotom-H with Earthquake. All of these Pokemon also heavily punish constant uses of Volt Switch, especially if Rotom-H is choiced.

**Manectric**: Overheat does heavy damage to Manectric, but it can use Volt Switch to gain a Special Attack boost before Mega Evolving. (I dont really like mane as a check or counter, it doesnt really do that much to rotom-h and is kinda easy to predict coming in.

**Raikou**: Raikou gets hard by Specs Overheat, but can otherwise use Rotom-H as set up bait with Calm Mind. (uses sub to avoid a lot of damage from the first overheat)
some comments in bold. gonna hold off on giving a final check cause i dont have a huge amount of experience with rotom-h and ik cant say said he was gonna look at this too

good work.
 

cant say

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all the information is covered nicely so Idon't have much to add from a QC standpoint, but the fluff / kitchen / oven puns and jokes are a bit much I think. Colourful writing like this is great in articles but I feel it doesn't suit the analysis style so well :pirate:

Why is Swampert the first listed in checks and counters? I know it has a huge typing advantage and all but it doesn't even show in the top 20 most common Heatom killers. I'm fine with having it listed but when you think of defining Heatom threats I don't think people are running to grab their Swamperts to beat it... So having it first seems kinda weird to me.

Everything else is good though


_____ QC 3/3
 

Theorymon

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Alright after getting back from New York City, I implemented cant say 's stuff and fixed the sentence Pyritie mentioned! Didn't remove the kitchen puns yet, but if GP wants to, I will. Anyways, this is ready for the gourmet patrol! :P
 

Lumari

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i removed a fair number of those puns, yeah :[ i don't mind one or two of them i suppose because it can still pass off as (pseudo-)formal, but there were just way too many especially in the overview, was kind of over the top :T

remove
add / fix (comments); (AC=add comma; RC=remove comma; SC=semicolon)
GP 1/2
[OVERVIEW]

Rotom-H may not seem as gourmet as Rotom-W, but thanks to its unique typing, Rotom-H brings something unique to the dinner table! Rotom-H's resistances to Grass, Eectric Electric, and Fire (RC) and access to a STAB Overheat (RC) means mean it is able to cook beat threats that Rotom-W couldn't even dream of handling, such as Ferrothorn, Breloom, Serperior, Aegislash, and Mega Charizard Y. Rotom-H's Fairy-type resistance also means that it can lets it handle Mega Mawile more reliably than Rotom-W. Rotom-H can even use its typing to piviot in and out of Thundurus. Much like Rotom-W, Rotom-H also has access to a delicious but concise movepool, with access to the all-important (AH) Volt Switch that allows it to become an effective scout (RC) and access to scrumptious support moves such as Will-O-Wisp, Thunder Wave, and Trick.

All is not well in the kitchen However, (AC) as great as Overheat is for dealing with a large amount number of threats, the Special Attack drop leaves Rotom-H vulnerable to being set up on. Overheat, Along with Volt Switch, this also means that Rotom-H is forced to switch out more often than Rotom-W, which is a problem when combined with Rotom-H's its Stealth Rock weakness. Weaknesses against to Rock- and Water-type moves in general also mean that there are some prominent threats that Rotom-H has more problems against than Rotom-W, such Garchomp and Azumarill. In general, make sure you are using Rotom-H for the unique threats it checks, rather than as an off-brand Rotom-W.

[SET]
name: Tank
move 1: Volt Switch
move 2: Overheat
move 3: Will-O-Wisp / Thunder Wave
move 4: Thunderbolt / Discharge / Hidden Power Ice
item: Sitrus Berry / Leftovers / Expert Belt
ability: Levitate
nature: Calm / Modest
evs: 252 HP / 252 SpD / 4 Spe

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

Volt Switch is an excellent tasty scouting move on Rotom-H, allowing you to peer into what Pokemon your opponent has chosen (RC) and gain an edge with a better match up matchup. Overheat is Rotom-H's strongest STAB, letting it toast roast Ferrothorn and Mega Mawile. It even OHKOes Aegislash if you are Rotom-H is carrying an Expert Belt with and a Modest nature. Will-O-Wisp is great for crippling Tyranitar, Azumarill, and Garchomp switch-ins (RC) and helps against Mega Mawile that may attempt to Sucker Punch Rotom-H. Thunder Wave is a reasonable alternative, punishing Mega Charizard X, Volcarona, and Blaziken for attempting to use Rotom-H as set up setup bait (RC) and dealing with Hydreigon switch-ins as well. In general, Will-O-Wisp and Thunder Wave allow Rotom-H to punish Pokemon that attempt to set up on it after Overheat.

Thunderbolt is a good, reliable STAB attack to consider, 2HKOing Mega Charizard Y and Azumarill without switching out. If you prefer a higher paralysis chance, Discharge is also a reasonable option. Finally, Hidden Power Ice 2HKOs 2HKOes Garchomp and Mega Salamence, which is especially important if you lack Will-O-Wisp. If you are Rotom-H is carrying an Expert Belt and a Modest nature, you it can actually OHKO these two, and as well as 2HKO Hydreigon switch-ins as well.

Set Details
========

The most difficult choice for Rotom-H is to decide which build to use. With a Calm nature and maximum HP and Special Defense, Rotom-H becomes a good Mega Charizard Y check (RC) and is able to take on Thundurus more reliably; (SC) and it also allows Rotom-H to defeat Focus Sash Serperior when at full health and tank Sylveon's Hyper Voice. This also pairs nicely with Rotom-H's ability to burn physical attackers. However, if you'd prefer to take on Mega Mawile more reliably, a Bold nature with maximum HP and Defense is still a reasonable option. While you it won't check Mega Charizard Y as reliably, you it will now take on Mega Salamence's Double-Edge better (RC) and also take less damage from Ground-types such as Garchomp and Landorus-T. When you're using a defensive nature, Sitrus Berry makes the most sense, since it can turn 2HKOs into 3HKOs, but Leftovers is a fine option if Sitrus Berry is already held by another teammate.

If you prefer to focus more on offense, consider running a Modest nature with Expert Belt. While Rotom-H isn't able to check Pokemon as reliably, this does allow it to OHKO Aegislash with Overheat. This also means that certain Rotom-H switch-ins (AH) are far less safe than usual. For example, Garchomp and Mega Salamence are now usually OHKOed by Hidden Power Ice, and Hydreigon is 2HKOed. Meanwhile, Thunderbolt now 2HKOs 2HKOed Assault Vest Azumarill. With a Modest nature, its it's best to put the remaining 4 EVs in Special Defense to avoid a prevent Porygon2 from getting a Special Attack boost from Download.

Usage Tips
========

Usually, its best to focus on switching Rotom-H into Pokemon it checks, such as Talonflame, Ferrothorn, Serperior (when using a Calm nature), and Thundurus. While Overheat fries Mega Mawile, note that Mega Mawile's Knock Off deals a huge amount of damage to Rotom-H that are Calm or Modest, so be careful about making Rotom-H your primary check to that Pokemon. Additionally, while Rotom-H checks Mega Charizard Y well, Mega Charizard X can set up on Rotom-H it, so switching into Charizard before it has Mega Evolved is extremely risky. While Rotom-H's Will-O-Wisp cripples Mega Kangaskhan, you should only force Rotom-H to handle that in emergencies, as Mega Kangaskhan is so strong that it'll 2HKO Rotom-H regardless of whether Will-O-Wisp connects or not. Finally, Modest Rotom-H using a Modest nature are is best sent in after a KO, as it is a bit frail compared to the defensive natures ones.

Using Volt Switching as much as possible is great for scouting your opponent's Pokemon choices, especially if Stealth Rock hasn't been set up. It's usually a good idea to use Volt Switch on non-threatening (AH) Pokemon that rarely stay in on Rotom-H, such as Talonflame, Ferrothorn, and Scizor. If you see physical Pokemon that use Rock-type moves such as Garchomp, Landorus-T, or and Tyranitar in Team Preview, using Will-O-Wisping on Pokemon Rotom-H often forces out isn't a bad idea to nail these Pokemon on the switch. Note that while Overheat is Rotom-H's most powerful attack, it also makes Rotom-H very easy to set up on, so make sure that any set up setup sweeper that can take advantage of Overheat's Special Attack drop is manageable with the Pokemon you have chosen before using it.

Team Options
========

Pokemon with a Rock-type resistances are fairly important for Rotom-H, as this is such moves are a common way for physical attackers such as Tyranitar, Garchomp, and Landorus-T to hit Rotom-H hard. Water-type resistances switch-ins are also important, because while Rotom-H hits most of them hard with Thunderbolt, special attacking Swampert, faster Water-types such as Greninja and Mega Gyarados, and Azumarill's Aqua Jet severely damage Rotom-H. Finally, watch out for special attacking Dragnons Dragons such as Hydreigon or Latios, as they only fear Thunder Wave and Expert Belt-boosted Hidden Power Ice.

Because of these threats, Ferrothorn makes an excellent teammate for Rotom-H. Ferrothorn resists Rock-type attacks, is able to handle Choiced Dragon-type attacks, and handles most Water-type Pokemon fairly well. In return, Rotom-H can defeat Mega Charizard Y and Talonflame. Mega Venusaur makes a good teammate as well for similar reasons, and as a bonus, it is a more reliable check to Azumarill because of the Superpower resistance. Mega Mawile stands out as a Pokemon whothat greatly appreciates Rotom-H's support moves, with Thunder Wave allowing it to OHKO faster threats (RC) and Will-O-Wisp saving it from KOs from most offensive Ground-types. In return, Mega Mawile defeats most Tyranitar (RC) and takes on Dragon- (AH) and Rock-type attacks. Azumarill also works well, hitting Tyranitar hard (though it takes heavy damage from Stone Edge), is being immune to Dragon-type attacks, and defeats defeating Mega Gyarados, and being able to set up on burned threats with Belly Drum. Rotom-H's Volt Switch is also great for switching Azumarill in to get a free Belly Drum. (AP) Conkeldurr tanks Rock-type moves and smashes Tyranitar fairly well, while Breloom works as a Focus Sash fighter that crushes Tyranitar and Azumarill. As a bonus, both of these Fighting-types appreciate Rotom-H zapping Talonflame. Mega Kangaskhan greatly benefits from Rotom-H's ability to deal with Ferrothorn and Talonflame (RC) and can set up on Pokemon Rotom-H has burned. Finally, Mega Salamence provides a Water-type resistance, checks Mega Venusaur, revenge kills slower Dragon Pokemon, and easily sets up on burned Pokemon thanks to its great physical bulk, while Rotom-H helps deal with Thundurus.

[SET]
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Overheat
move 2: Volt Switch
move 3: Hidden Power Ice
move 4: Trick / Thunderbolt
item: Choice Specs
ability: Levitate
nature: Modest / Timid
evs: 252 HP / 252 SpA / 4 SpD

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

Overheat's power is mouth watering (RH) when boosted by Choice Specs, being able to deep fry Aegislash in its Shield forme (RC) and deal massive damage to threats Rotom-H usually fails to, such as 2HKOing Mega Venusaur, and having a 75% reasonable (specifity is pointless, the only relevant information in battle is "not at all secure") shot at OHKOing Hippowdon and Raikou with a Modest nature. It even serves deals over 50% to many Pokemon that resist it, such as Rotom-W, Hydreigon, and Garchomp. Volt Switch is a great and powerful scouting move with Choice Specs, having an 87.5% great chance to OHKO Azumarill, almost always OHKOs Mega Charizard Y, and 2HKOs Rotom-W. Hidden Power Ice is Rotom-H's ticket against Dragon-types, OHKOing Garchomp and Mega Salamence (RC) and 2HKOing Hydreigon and Latios switch-ins. Trick is a great way to cripple defensive Pokemon such as Porygon2 and Cresselia, while Thunderbolt doesn't force Rotom-H to switch out, 2HKOs 2HKOes Heatran, and has a 62.5% decent chance of OHKOing Suicune.

Set Details
========

All Choice Specs Rotom-H should run as much Special Attack EVs as possible, as getting OHKOs on Pokemon such as Aegislash are is extremely important. The nature and the HP and Speed EVs are far more malleable. Maximum HP and 4 SpD give Rotom-H good bulk while avoiding a Special Attack boost from Porygon2's Download.

If you want more Speed, a Modest spread of 76 HP / 24 Def / 252 SpA / 24 SpD / 132 Speed allows you Rotom-H to outspeed Adamant Breloom. For outspeeding Jolly Breloom, run an EV spread of 76 HP / 24 Def / 180 SpA / 228 Speed. Finally, if you want to outspeed Jolly Gyarados, Mamoswine, and Dragonite, use a Timid nature and 76 HP / 24 Def / 188 SpA / 220 Spe. Note that all of these faster spreads are designed to avoid a 2HKO from Choice Band Talonflame while Stealth Rock is off the frield, but these Rotom-H in general are more frail than usual.

Usage Tips
========

Using Volt Switch as much as possible is usually a great way to soften up Pokemon and scout your opponent's Pokemon choices, but if you see Ground-types in Team Preview, consider throwing how out Hidden Power Ice to OHKO Garchomp and Landorus-T switch-ins (RC) and Overheat to saute smash Mamoswine, Landorus-T, and Excadrill switch-ins. Note that while Overheat deals tremendous damage, it also makes Rotom-H fairly easy to set up on after a KO. For similar reasons Similarly, Hidden Power Ice is extremely easy to set up on with Pokemon that aren't weak to it.

Rotom-H is somewhat frail even with maximum HP, so its usually best to switch it into defensive Pokemon such as Ferrothorn (RC) or after one of your Pokemon has been KOed. Rotom-H also makes a good lead because of this, being able to scout the opponent early in the game. Double switching can also surprise Ground-types that were expecting a Volt Switch, putting momentum in your favor. If you see a team full of defensive Pokemon such as Porygon2 and Cresselia, Tricking them is a great way to pave the way for your more offensive Pokemon as long as you take into account the boost in power Choice Specs provides them (especially against offensive Porygon2).

Team Options
========

If possible, consider paralysis support to patch up Rotom-H's mediocre Speed, as this makes Rotom-H much more difficult to check. Porygon2 and Cresselia are among the most reliable users of Thunder Wave (RC) and can help check Ground-types. Serperior is a more offensive option that can deal with Water-types and paralyze Ground-types with Glare.

Conkeldurr is a huge help against the dreaded Tyranitar, while and it appreciates Rotom-H's ability to OHKO Aegislash and Talonflame. Meanwhile, Azumarill can defeat Tyranitar and switch freely into Dragn Dragon-type attacks. Aegislash also has good synergy with Rotom-H, luring in Ground and Fire-type moves to switch Rotom-H into, while Rotom-H severely hurts Gengar leads and OHKOs OHKOes opposing Aegislash. Mega Mawile provides similar luring powers (RC) and benefits greatly from Rotom-H's immunity to Will-O-Wisp. Ground-types such as Garchomp, Mamoswine, and Excadrill can maim Tyranitar switch-ins (AH) and generally handle its Rock-type attacks.

Consider Pokemon that can take advantage of the free switch-ins switches Volt Switch offers. Greninja is a fantastic example, often being able to KO Pokemon Rotom-H has softened up. Landorus-T and Scizor are notable for being able to use U-turn to further the switching antics. Focus Sash Pokemon such as Breloom and Garchomp become far more deadly when they get a free swich switch in, while Dragonite can retain its Multiscale if Stealth Rock isn't up.

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Volt Switch
move 2: Overheat
move 3: Hidden Power Ice
move 4: Trick / Thunderbolt
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid / Modest
evs: 76 HP / 24 Def / 188 SpA / 220 Spe

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

Volt Switch is an appetizing excellent move on Choice Scarf Rotom-H, allowing it to escape before it's (apo) hit by an attack (RC) and scout what your Pokemon your opponent has chosen. Overheat is Rotom-H's most powerful attack, baking destroying Ferrothorn, Mega Mawile, and Scizor (RC) and OHKOs OHKOing Greninja that have turned into an Ice-type. Hidden Power Ice is rather weak, but it does 2HKO Garchomp and Mega Salamence (RC) while also 3HKOing Hydreigon. Trick is great for crippling walls such as Porygon2 and Cresselia, while Thunderbolt is a reliable Electric-type attack that doesn't force Rotom-H to switch out.

Set Details
========

The listed EV spread and Timid nature allow Rotom-H to outspeed boosted Gyarados and Dragonite (RC) while surviving two hits of Choice Band Talonflame's Brave Bird as long as Stealth Rock isn't set up. You can use a Modest nature with the same spread to have more power and still outspeed Mega Gengar, but this removes Rotom-H's ability to pick off weakened Mega Gyarados.

Usage Tips
========

Near the early parts of the game, Rotom-H will like to use Volt Switch as much as possible to scout the opponent's Pokemon and soften them up for your its teammates. However, this can be punished harshly by Ground-type Pokemon, so using Hidden Power Ice on predicted Garchomp switch-ins (RC) and using Overheat on Ground-type switch-ins can work in yur your favor. Just note that Overheat and Hidden Power Ice make Rotom-H extremely vulnerable against set-up setup sweepers. If you're team can't handle a large amount number of Volt Switch-immune foes immunities or Rotom-H getting set up on by a certain threat in your opponent's team, it may be best to bench Rotom-H.

Try to be sly about Choice Scarf Rotom-H's true nature, as Choice Scarf can be a nasty surprise to many Pokemon. Try to avoid obvious plays such as switching Rotom-H into Garchomp to use Hidden Power Ice, and instead, switch Rotom-H into Pokemon it usually checks such as Ferrothorn. This lets Rotom-H get surprise revenge kills on threats it normally can't deal with well, such as Greninja and Mega Lucario. This also makes walls more comfortable with switching into Rotom-H, allowing you to cripple them with Trick.

Team Options
========

Its best to prepare for the large amount number of sweepers that can set up once Rotom-H has used Overheat. Major examples include Azumarill, Volcarona, Dragonite, Garchomp, Mega Charizard X, and Mega Salamence. Tyranitar is also a massive problem for Rotom-H, as it completely walls it. Specially attacking Dragons such as Hydreigon and Latios also tend to wall Rotom-H. Azumarill is great teammate here, taking on Dragon Dance Mega Charizard X (RC) and Tyranitar (RC) and revenge killing weakened Volcarona with Aqua Jet. Mega Altaria helps against Mega Charizard X, Tyranitar, and Volcarona, and Hydreigon as well. Zapdos does a good job dealing with Azumarill (RC) and can use Thunder Wave to surprise Volcarona, Mega Charizard X, and Hydreigon switch-ins. While it has poor typing snyergy synergy with Rotom-H, Choice Band Talonflame smashes Volcarona and KOs KOes Azumarill after it has used Belly Drum. Conkeldurr hits Tyranitar with Drain Punches Tyranitar and can revenge kill weakened Hydreigon with Mach Punch, while Breloom trades bulk for being an excellent Focus Sash user that defeats Tyranitar (RC) and Azumarill (RC) and can even badly hurt Mega Charizard X with Rock Tomb + Mach Punch if it has a Focus Sash intact. Garchomp, Landorus-T, and Mamoswine check Tyranitar, and all 3 can run Focus Sashes to solve Rotom-H's set up setup bait woes. Finally, Mega Venusaur does a great job against Water-types (RC) and is one of the best Azumarill counters in the game.

Since Choice Scarf Rotom-H has a habit of crippling walls with Trick, consider Pokemon that benefit from Cresselia, Porygon2, Suicune, and other bulky Pokemon being far less effective at checking threats. Great offensive Pokemon to consider here include Garchomp, Mega Kangaskhan, Mega Salamence, Dragonite, and Mega Gyarados.

[SET]
name: Substitute
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Overheat
move 3: Will-O-Wisp / Toxic
move 4: Discharge / Thunderbolt
item: Leftovers
ability: Levitate
nature: Calm / Timid
evs: 156 HP / 220 SpD / 132 Spe

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

Substitute is great for allowing Rotom-H to avoid Toxic and Breloom's deadly Spores. It also scouts your opponent's Pokemon if Rotom-H can force them out. It alsoand saves Rotom-H from getting revenge killed by Mega Mawile's Sucker Punch without relying on Will-O-Wisp. Overheat may have poor synergy with Substitute, but being able to stir-fry smash Mega Mawile, Ferrothorn, and Scizor is far too valuable to give up. Will-O-Wisp lets Rotom-H burn physical Pokemon, which is especially valuable after a use of Overheat. If you're more interested in dealing with walls, Toxic does a good job of wearing them down (RC) and ironically makes Rotom-H a great check to opposing Rotom-H. Discharge works great as your Rotom-H's Electric-type attack, as the 30% paralysis rate gives Rotom-H more chances to use Substitute. Thunderbolt does have more power, (AC) however, giving Rotom-H a 68.8% reasonable chance of OHKOing Greninja while it's (apo) a Water-type (RC) and a 61.3% chance to 2HKO Blaziken.

Set Details
========

Leftovers should always be run, as they have it has a chance of increasing the amount number of Substitutes you can make. The HP EVs allow Rotom-H to restore the most health possible from Leftovers (RC) while almost always avoiding a 2HKO from Focus Sash Garchomp's Rock Tomb. The Speed EVs let Rotom-H outspeed Adamant Breloom, while the Calm nature and Special Defense EVs allow it to take on Mega Charizard Y and take as little damage from the sound attacks that Rotom-H resists as possible.

A Timid nature is also viable with an EV spread of 156 HP / 132 SpD / 220 Spe, which is designed to outspeed Jolly Gyarados, Dragonite, and Mamoswine (RC) and lets Rotom-W survive two Sludge Bombs from minimum HP Mega Gengar 83% most of the time.

Usage Tips
========

Be careful about switching Rotom-H in, because while this set focus on bulk, any heavy damage Rotom-H takes is going to reduce the amount number of Substitutes it can make. Try to switch Rotom-H on Pokemon it safely checks such as Ferrothorn and Scizor (RC) or after a KO against Pokemon that will likely switch out such as Mega Mawile or Talonflame. You don't have to constantly use Substitute if it doesn't fit the flow of the match, (AC) either; (SC) sometimes it's (apo) best to just burn switch-ins and keep Rotom-H's health up.

Team Options
========

Make sure to pack Pokemon with a Rock-type resistances, as most users of them such moves tend to be faster than Rotom-H. Mega Heraross Heracross in particular can smash through Rotom-H's Substitutes with Rock Blast. Specially attacking Dragons such as Hydreigon and Latios can take anything that isn't Toxic and threaten to deal some serious damage, while Mega Charizard X sets up on Rotom-H. While Water-types are an extremely risky switch-in due to Substitute and Electric STAB, they can switch in on Overheat and wreck havoc. Calm Mind Suicune and Raikou are especially problematic in this case, as this Rotom-H is too weak to defeat them once they starts start setting up.

These problems make Ferrothorn an incredible partner. Ferrothorn resists Rock- and Water-type attacks, can take on Choiced Dragons, and, (AC) most of all, can use Leech Seed to restore some of Rotom-H's health. Mega Venusaur also works, being one of the best counters to Azumarill in the game. Serperior outpaces Calm Mind Suicune (RC) and can use a Focus Sash set to hit special Dragons hard with a boosted Dragon Pulse. Breloom smashes through Azumarill and Tyranitar (RC) and can snipe weakened Hydreigon and hit Mega Charizard X hard with Rock Tomb if it has its Focus Sash intact. In return, Rotom-H helps these four Grass-types deal with Talonflame and Mega Salamence. A Calm Mind Raikou of your own is also helpful against Calm Mind Suicune (RC) and is hard for the special attacking Dragons to stop. Choice Scarf Garchomp does a great job against Mega Charizard X, Raikou, Dragonite, and Tyranitar in particular.

Consider some set up sweepers to take advantage of Rotom-H's burning capabilities. Belly Drum Azumarill is an excellent choice, since it's (apo) so hard to stop its set up setup once physical attackers are burned. Mega Salamence and Mega Gyarados also synergize well with Rotom-H. Toxic support Pokemon allow Rotom-H to effectively outstall most walls. Porygon2 and Cresselia are reliable users of Toxic, but Aegislash and Mega Salamence are also great choices, (AC) since they lure in defensive Pokemon to handle them. You can even use Toxic Spikes Greninja to threaten Toxic damage for entire teams.

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

Rotom-H doesn't have many viable options that haven't been covered already. Reflect and Light Screen can be used with Light Clay to help set up setup sweepers, but taking giving up two moveslots is often too much for Rotom-H. Hex can be paired with Thunder Wave or Will-O-Wisp to smash Mega Gengar without Overheat, but it is otherwise weaker than your Rotom-H's Electric STAB move. If you really dislike Swampert and Rhyperior, you can run Hidden Power Grass, but otherwise it's (apo) a wasted moveslot compared to Hidden Power Ice. Confuse Ray has synergy with the Substitute set, but it is much more luck based than Will-O-Wisp or Toxic.

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

**Dragons**: Hydreigon, Latios, Mega Latias, and Mega Altaria only really fear Choice Specs-boosted Hidden Power Ice (RC) and can otherwise use Rotom-H as set up setup bait or slam with their STAB moves. Facade Mega Salamence sets up without fear of Will-O-Wisp, while Dragonite sets up especially if it has Lum Berry. Mega Charizard X is immune to Will-O-Wisp, so it will set up on Rotom-H unless it has Thunder Wave.

**Tyranitar and Rhyperior**: Tyranitar's Rock typing (RH) and Sand Stream makes it a real kitchen nightmare for Rotom-H, only fearing Will-O-Wisp. Even then, Rotom-H gets smashed by Rock Slide and Stone Edge. Assault Vest Rhyperior also avoids a 2HKO from Rotom-H (RC) and can even use Rock Blast to muscle past its Substitutes.

**Facade Mega Kangaskhan**: Mega Kangaskhan already usually OHKOs OHKOes Rotom-H, but Facade means this Mega Kangaskhan doesn't even fear Will-O-Wisp.

**Bulky Fire-types**: Calm Heatran avoids a 2HKO from even Choice Specs Rotom-H (RC) and can cripple it with Toxic as long as it avoids Trick. Assault Vest Entei is extremely bulky (RC) and hits Rotom-H hard with Stone Edge. While Volcarona is OHKOed by Choice Specs-boosted Overheat, it can otherwise use Rotom-H as time fodder to set up Quiver Dance.

**Stealth Rock**: Stealth Rock strips away 25% of Rotom-H's HP, which is especially punishing since because Rotom-H often switches out due to Volt Switch and Overheat. Common users of Stealth Rock include Garchomp, Hippowdon, Tyranitar, Landorus-T, and Swampert.

**Offensive Ground-types**: Garchomp in particular handles easily takes Overheat and Electric moves (RC) and slams Rotom-H with Rock-type attacks, though it can't take Hidden Power Ice well. Landorus-T takes heavy damage from Overheat and Hidden Power Ice (RC) but can otherwise hit Rotom-H even harder with Rock-type attacks. Excadrill gets OHKOed by Overheat, but its Mold Breaker ability allows it to OHKO Rotom-H with Earthquake. All of these Pokemon also heavily punish constant uses of Volt Switch, especially if Rotom-H is Choiced.

**Mega Venusaur**: Thick Fat allows specially defensive Mega Venusaur to wall Rotom-H. Offensive and physically defensive Mega Venusaur also do well against Rotom-H, but they are 2HKOed by Choice Specs-boosted Overheat.

**Offensive Water-types**: Azumarill, Rotom-W, Greninja, and Gyarados all hit Rotom-H hard, but all of them hate Electric-type moves.

**Swampert**: Swampert only fears Wil-O-Wisp Will-O-Wisp if its physically based, as it otherwise slams Rotom-H with its Water-type attacks, and can set up Stealth Rock or use Yawn fairy easily.

**Raikou**: Raikou gets hard by Choice Specs-boosted Overheat, but it can otherwise use Rotom-H as set up setup bait with Calm Mind (RC) and can use Substitute to soak up the first Overheat.

**Chansey / Blissey**: As long as they avoid Trick, these pink blobs totally wall Rotom-H with their massive Special Defense.

**Conkeldurr**: Assault Vest Conkeldurr uses Guts to absorb Will-O-Wisp (RC) and smacks Rotom-H hard with a boosted Drain Punch. It only fears Choice Specs Overheat.

**Toxic Rotom-H**: In an ironic twist, opposing Rotom-H can sabotage your own Rotom-H with Toxic as long as you don't run Substitute.
 
Last edited:

Theorymon

Have a wonderful day, wahoo!
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Moderator
Thank you very much The Dutch Plumberjack ! Yeah, I guess I had WAY too much fun with those kitchen puns, and I used to have more of them too lol. I blame the oven fumes, clearly I should not be cooking and writing at the same time.

Anyways, just need one more member of the gourmet patrol to taste test this before it can be served onsite!
 

GatoDelFuego

The Antimonymph of the Internet
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Theorymon

REMOVE CHANGE COMMENTS

[OVERVIEW]

Rotom-H may might not seem as gourmet as Rotom-W, but thanks to its unique typing, Rotom-H brings something unique to the table! Rotom-H's resistances to Grass, Electric, and Fire and access to a STAB Overheat mean it is able to beat threats that Rotom-W couldn't even dream of handling, such as Ferrothorn, Breloom, Serperior, Aegislash, and Mega Charizard Y. Rotom-H's Fairy-type resistance also lets it handle Mega Mawile more reliably than Rotom-W. Rotom-H can even use its typing to pivot in and out of Thundurus. Much like Rotom-W, Rotom-H also has access to a delicious but concise movepool, with access to the all-important Volt Switch that allows it to become an effective scout and scrumptious support moves such as Will-O-Wisp, Thunder Wave, and Trick.

However, as great as Overheat is for dealing with a large number of threats, the Special Attack drop leaves Rotom-H vulnerable to being set up on. Along with Volt Switch, this also means that Rotom-H is forced to switch out more often than Rotom-W, which is a problem when combined with its Stealth Rock weakness. Weaknesses to Rock- and Water-type moves in general also mean that there are some prominent threats that Rotom-H has more problems against than Rotom-W, such Garchomp and Azumarill. In general, make sure you are using Rotom-H for the unique threats it checks, rather than as an off-brand Rotom-W.

[SET]
name: Tank
move 1: Volt Switch
move 2: Overheat
move 3: Will-O-Wisp / Thunder Wave
move 4: Thunderbolt / Discharge / Hidden Power Ice
item: Sitrus Berry / Leftovers / Expert Belt
ability: Levitate
nature: Calm / Modest
evs: 252 HP / 252 SpD / 4 Spe

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

Volt Switch is an excellent scouting move on Rotom-H, allowing you to peer into what Pokemon your opponent has chosen and gain an edge with a better matchup. Overheat is Rotom-H's strongest STAB move, letting it Rotom-H roast Ferrothorn and Mega Mawile. It even OHKOes Aegislash if Rotom-H is carrying an Expert Belt and is using a Modest nature. Will-O-Wisp is great for crippling Tyranitar, Azumarill, and Garchomp switch-ins and helps against Mega Mawile that may might attempt to Sucker Punch Rotom-H. Thunder Wave is a reasonable alternative, punishing Mega Charizard X, Volcarona, and Blaziken for attempting to use Rotom-H as setup bait and dealing with Hydreigon switch-ins as well. In general, Will-O-Wisp and Thunder Wave allow Rotom-H to punish Pokemon that attempt to set up on it after Overheat.

Thunderbolt is a good, reliable STAB attack to consider, 2HKOing Mega Charizard Y and Azumarill without forcing Rotom-H to switch switching out. If you prefer a higher paralysis chance, Discharge is also a reasonable option. Finally, Hidden Power Ice 2HKOes Garchomp and Mega Salamence, which is especially important if you lack Rotom-H lacks Will-O-Wisp. If Rotom-H is carrying an Expert Belt and a Modest nature, it can actually OHKO these two, as well as 2HKO Hydreigon switch-ins.

Set Details
========

The most difficult choice for Rotom-H is which build to use. With a Calm nature and maximum HP and Special Defense investment, Rotom-H becomes a good Mega Charizard Y check and is able to take on Thundurus more reliably; it also allows Rotom-H to defeat Focus Sash Serperior when at full health and tank Sylveon's Hyper Voice. This also pairs nicely with Rotom-H's ability to burn physical attackers. However, if you'd prefer to take on Mega Mawile more reliably, a Bold nature with maximum HP and Defense investment is still a reasonable option. While it Rotom-H won't check Mega Charizard Y as reliably, it will now take on Mega Salamence's Double-Edge better and take less damage from Ground-types such as Garchomp and Landorus-T. Why exactly does it take so much damage from Ground-types? Doesn't it have levitate? When you're using a defensive nature, Sitrus Berry makes the most sense, since it can turn 2HKOs into 3HKOs, but Leftovers is a fine option if Sitrus Berry is already held by another teammate.

If you prefer to focus more on offense, consider running a Modest nature with Expert Belt. While Rotom-H isn't able to check Pokemon as reliably, this does allow it to OHKO Aegislash with Overheat. This also means that certain Rotom-H switch-ins are far less safe than usual. For example, Garchomp and Mega Salamence are now usually OHKOed by Hidden Power Ice, and Hydreigon is 2HKOed. Meanwhile, Thunderbolt now 2HKOed 2HKOes Assault Vest Azumarill. With a Modest nature, it's best to put the remaining 4 EVs in Special Defense to prevent Porygon2 from getting a Special Attack boost from Download.

Usage Tips
========

Usually, its best to focus on switching switch Rotom-H into Pokemon it checks, such as Talonflame, Ferrothorn, Serperior (when using a Calm nature), and Thundurus. While Overheat fries Mega Mawile, note that Mega Mawile's Knock Off deals a huge amount of damage to Rotom-H that are Calm or Modest, so be careful about making Rotom-H your primary check to that Pokemon. Additionally, while Rotom-H checks Mega Charizard Y well, Mega Charizard X can set up on it, so switching into Charizard before it has Mega Evolved is extremely risky. While Rotom-H's Will-O-Wisp cripples Mega Kangaskhan, you should only force Rotom-H to handle that in emergencies, as Mega Kangaskhan is so strong that it'll 2HKO Rotom-H regardless of whether Will-O-Wisp connects or not. Finally, Modest Rotom-H is best sent in after a KO, as it is a bit frail compared to the defensive ones.

Using Volt Switch as much as possible is great for scouting your opponent's Pokemon choices, especially if Stealth Rock hasn't been set up on your side of the field. It's usually a good idea to use Volt Switch on non-threatening Pokemon that rarely stay in on Rotom-H, such as Talonflame, Ferrothorn, and Scizor. If you see physical Pokemon that use Rock-type moves such as Garchomp, Landorus-T, and Tyranitar in Team Preview, using Will-O-Wisp on Pokemon Rotom-H often forces out isn't a bad idea to nail these Pokemon on the switch. Note that while Overheat is Rotom-H's most powerful attack, it also makes Rotom-H very easy to set up on, so make sure that any setup sweeper that can take advantage of Overheat's Special Attack drop is manageable with the Pokemon you have chosen before using it.

Team Options
========

Pokemon with a Rock-type resistance are fairly important for Rotom-H, as such moves are a common way for physical attackers such as Tyranitar, Garchomp, and Landorus-T to hit Rotom-H hard. Water-type switch-ins are also important, because while Rotom-H hits most of them hard with Thunderbolt, special attacking Swampert, faster Water-types such as Greninja and Mega Gyarados, and Azumarill's Aqua Jet severely damage Rotom-H. Finally, watch out for special attacking Dragon-types such as Hydreigon or Latios, as they only fear Thunder Wave and Expert Belt-boosted Hidden Power Ice.

Because of these threats, Ferrothorn makes an excellent teammate for Rotom-H. Ferrothorn resists Rock-type attacks, is able to handle Choice-locked Dragon-type attacks, and handles most Water-type Pokemon fairly well. In return, Rotom-H can defeat Mega Charizard Y and Talonflame. Mega Venusaur makes a good teammate as well for similar reasons, and as a bonus, it is a more reliable check to Azumarill because of the Superpower resistance. Mega Mawile stands out as a Pokemon that greatly appreciates Rotom-H's support moves, with Thunder Wave allowing it to OHKO faster threats and Will-O-Wisp saving it from KOs from most offensive Ground-types. In return, Mega Mawile defeats most Tyranitar variants and takes on Dragon- and Rock-type attacks. Azumarill also works well, hitting Tyranitar hard (though it takes heavy damage from Stone Edge), being immune to Dragon-type attacks, defeating Mega Gyarados, and being able to set up on burned threats with Belly Drum. Rotom-H's Volt Switch is also great for switching Azumarill in to get a free Belly Drum. Conkeldurr tanks Rock-type moves and smashes Tyranitar fairly well, while Breloom works as a Focus Sash fighter that crushes Tyranitar and Azumarill. As a bonus, both of these Fighting-types appreciate Rotom-H zapping Talonflame. Mega Kangaskhan greatly benefits from Rotom-H's ability to deal with Ferrothorn and Talonflame and can set up on Pokemon Rotom-H has burned. Finally, Mega Salamence provides a Water-type resistance, checks Mega Venusaur, revenge kills slower Dragon Pokemon, and easily sets up on burned Pokemon thanks to its great physical bulk, while Rotom-H helps deal with Thundurus.

[SET]
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Overheat
move 2: Volt Switch
move 3: Hidden Power Ice
move 4: Trick / Thunderbolt
item: Choice Specs
ability: Levitate
nature: Modest / Timid
evs: 252 HP / 252 SpA / 4 SpD

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

Overheat's power is mouth watering when boosted by Choice Specs, being able to deep fry Aegislash in its Shield forme and deal massive damage to threats Rotom-H usually fails to, such as 2HKOing Mega Venusaur, and having a reasonable shot at OHKOing Hippowdon and Raikou with a Modest nature. It even deals over 50% to many Pokemon that resist it, such as Rotom-W, Hydreigon, and Garchomp. Volt Switch is a great and powerful scouting move with Choice Specs, having a great chance to OHKO Azumarill, almost always OHKOing Mega Charizard Y, and 2HKOing Rotom-W. Hidden Power Ice is Rotom-H's ticket weapon against Dragon-types, OHKOing Garchomp and Mega Salamence and 2HKOing Hydreigon and Latios switch-ins. Trick is a great way to cripple defensive Pokemon such as Porygon2 and Cresselia, while Thunderbolt doesn't force Rotom-H to switch out, 2HKOes Heatran, and has a decent chance of OHKOing Suicune.

Set Details
========

All Choice Specs Rotom-H should run as much many Special Attack EVs as possible, as getting OHKOs on Pokemon such as Aegislash is extremely important. The nature and the HP and Speed EVs are far more malleable. Maximum HP and 4 SpD EVs give Rotom-H good bulk while avoiding a Special Attack boost from Porygon2's Download.

If you want more Speed, a Modest spread of 76 HP / 24 Def / 252 SpA / 24 SpD / 132 Spe allows Rotom-H to outspeed Adamant Breloom. For outspeeding Jolly Breloom, run an EV spread of 76 HP / 24 Def / 180 SpA / 228 Spe. Finally, if you want to outspeed Jolly Gyarados, Mamoswine, and Dragonite, use a Timid nature and 76 HP / 24 Def / 188 SpA / 220 Spe. Note that all of these faster spreads are designed to avoid a 2HKO from Choice Band Talonflame while Stealth Rock is off the field, but these Rotom-H in general are more frail than usual.

Usage Tips
========

Using Volt Switch as much as possible is usually a great way to soften up Pokemon and scout your opponent's Pokemon choices, but if you see Ground-types in Team Preview, consider throwing out Hidden Power Ice to OHKO Garchomp and Landorus-T switch-ins and Overheat to smash Mamoswine, Landorus-T, and Excadrill switch-ins. Note that while Overheat deals tremendous damage, it also makes Rotom-H fairly easy to set up on after a KO. Similarly, Hidden Power Ice is extremely easy to set up on with by Pokemon that aren't weak to it.

Rotom-H is somewhat frail even with maximum HP investment, so its usually best to switch it into defensive Pokemon such as Ferrothorn or after one of your Pokemon has been KOed. Rotom-H also makes a good lead because of this, being able to scout the opponent's choices early in the game. Double switching can also surprise Ground-types that were expecting a Volt Switch, putting momentum in your favor. If you see a team full of defensive Pokemon such as Porygon2 and Cresselia, Tricking them is a great way to pave the way for your more offensive Pokemon as long as you take into account the boost in power Choice Specs provides them (especially against offensive Porygon2).

Team Options
========

If possible, consider paralysis support to patch up Rotom-H's mediocre Speed, as this makes Rotom-H much more difficult to check. Porygon2 and Cresselia are among the most reliable users of Thunder Wave and can help check Ground-types. Serperior is a more offensive option that can deal with Water-types and paralyze Ground-types with Glare. consider swapping these, as right now this says Serperior handles both Ground and Water Pokemon with Glare

Conkeldurr is a huge help against the dreaded Tyranitar, and it appreciates Rotom-H's ability to OHKO Aegislash and Talonflame. Meanwhile, Azumarill can defeat Tyranitar and switch freely into Dragon-type attacks. Aegislash also has good synergy with Rotom-H, luring in Ground- and Fire-type moves to switch Rotom-H into, while Rotom-H severely hurts Gengar leads and OHKOes opposing Aegislash. Mega Mawile provides similar luring powers and benefits greatly from Rotom-H's immunity to Will-O-Wisp. Ground-types such as Garchomp, Mamoswine, and Excadrill can maim Tyranitar switch-ins and generally handle its Rock-type attacks.

Consider Pokemon that can take advantage of the free switches Volt Switch offers. Greninja is a fantastic example, often being able to KO Pokemon Rotom-H has softened up. Landorus-T and Scizor are notable for being able to use U-turn to further the switching antics. Focus Sash Pokemon such as Breloom and Garchomp become far more deadly when they get a free switch in, while Dragonite can retain its Multiscale if Stealth Rock isn't up.

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Volt Switch
move 2: Overheat
move 3: Hidden Power Ice
move 4: Trick / Thunderbolt
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid / Modest
evs: 76 HP / 24 Def / 188 SpA / 220 Spe

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

Volt Switch is an excellent move on Choice Scarf Rotom-H, allowing it to escape before it's hit by an attack and scout what Pokemon your opponent has chosen to switch to. Overheat is Rotom-H's most powerful attack, destroying Ferrothorn, Mega Mawile, and Scizor and OHKOing Greninja that have turned into an Ice-type. Hidden Power Ice is rather weak, but it does 2HKO Garchomp and Mega Salamence while also 3HKOing Hydreigon. Trick is great for crippling walls such as Porygon2 and Cresselia, while Thunderbolt is a reliable Electric-type attack that doesn't force Rotom-H to switch out.

Set Details
========

The listed EV spread and Timid nature allow Rotom-H to outspeed boosted Gyarados and Dragonite +1 boost? while surviving two hits of Choice Band Talonflame's Brave Bird as long as Stealth Rock isn't set up. You can use a Modest nature with the same spread to have more power and still outspeed Mega Gengar, but this removes Rotom-H's ability to pick off weakened Mega Gyarados.

Usage Tips
========

Near the early parts of the game, Rotom-H will like to use Volt Switch as much as possible to scout the opponent's Pokemon and soften them up for its teammates. However, this can be punished harshly by Ground-type Pokemon, so using Hidden Power Ice on predicted Garchomp switch-ins and using Overheat on Ground-type switch-ins can work in your favor. Just note that Overheat and Hidden Power Ice make Rotom-H extremely vulnerable against setup sweepers. If you're team can't handle a large number of Volt Switch-immune foes or Rotom-H getting set up on by a certain threat in your opponent's team, it may might be best to bench Rotom-H.

Try to be sly about Choice Scarf Rotom-H's true nature, as Choice Scarf can be a nasty surprise to many Pokemon. Try to avoid obvious plays such as switching Rotom-H into Garchomp to use Hidden Power Ice, and instead, (RC) switch Rotom-H into Pokemon it usually checks such as Ferrothorn. This lets Rotom-H get surprise revenge kills on threats it normally can't deal with well, such as Greninja and Mega Lucario. This also makes walls more comfortable with switching into Rotom-H, allowing you to cripple them with Trick.

Team Options
========

It's best to prepare for the large number of sweepers that can set up once Rotom-H has used Overheat. Major examples include Azumarill, Volcarona, Dragonite, Garchomp, Mega Charizard X, and Mega Salamence. Tyranitar is also a massive problem for Rotom-H, as it completely walls it Rotom-H. Specially attacking Dragon-types such as Hydreigon and Latios also tend to wall Rotom-H. Azumarill is great teammate here, taking on Dragon Dance Mega Charizard X and Tyranitar and revenge killing weakened Volcarona with Aqua Jet. Mega Altaria helps against Mega Charizard X, Tyranitar, Volcarona, and Hydreigon. Zapdos does a good job dealing with Azumarill (RC) and can use Thunder Wave to surprise Volcarona, Mega Charizard X, and Hydreigon switch-ins. While it has poor typing synergy with Rotom-H, Choice Band Talonflame smashes Volcarona and KOes Azumarill after it has used Belly Drum. Conkeldurr hits Tyranitar with Drain Punch and can revenge kill weakened Hydreigon with Mach Punch, while Breloom trades bulk for being an excellent Focus Sash user that defeats Tyranitar and Azumarill and can even badly hurt Mega Charizard X with Rock Tomb + Mach Punch if it has a Focus Sash intact. Garchomp, Landorus-T, and Mamoswine check Tyranitar, and all 3 can run Focus Sashes to solve Rotom-H's setup bait woes. Finally, Mega Venusaur does a great job against Water-types and is one of the best Azumarill counters in the game.

Since Choice Scarf Rotom-H has a habit of crippling walls with Trick, consider Pokemon that benefit from Cresselia, Porygon2, Suicune, and other bulky Pokemon being far less effective at checking threats. Great offensive Pokemon to consider here include Garchomp, Mega Kangaskhan, Mega Salamence, Dragonite, and Mega Gyarados.

[SET]
name: Substitute
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Overheat
move 3: Will-O-Wisp / Toxic
move 4: Discharge / Thunderbolt
item: Leftovers
ability: Levitate
nature: Calm / Timid
evs: 156 HP / 220 SpD / 132 Spe

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

Substitute is great for allowing Rotom-H to avoid Toxic and Breloom's deadly Spores. It also scouts your opponent's Pokemon if Rotom-H can force them out and saves Rotom-H from getting revenge killed by Mega Mawile's Sucker Punch without relying on Will-O-Wisp. Overheat may might have poor synergy with Substitute, but being able to smash Mega Mawile, Ferrothorn, and Scizor is far too valuable to give up. and is like the only reason to use Rotom-H hahahah Will-O-Wisp lets Rotom-H burn physical Pokemon, which is especially valuable after a use of Overheat. If you're more interested in dealing with walls, Toxic does a good job of wearing them down and ironically makes Rotom-H a great check to opposing Rotom-H. except sub variants hehehehe Discharge works great as Rotom-H's Electric-type attack, as the 30% paralysis rate gives Rotom-H more chances to use Substitute. Thunderbolt does have more power, however, giving Rotom-H a reasonable chance of OHKOing Greninja while it's a Water-type and a reasonable chance to 2HKO Blaziken. I'd mention that it also is safer with Rotom's other status moves

Set Details
========

Leftovers should always be run, as it has a chance of increasing it will usually increase the number of Substitutes you Rotom-H can make. The HP EVs allow Rotom-H to restore the most health possible from Leftovers while almost always avoiding a 2HKO from Focus Sash Garchomp's Rock Tomb. Is this >90% or something? I think the chance should be known as useful info The Speed EVs let Rotom-H outspeed Adamant Breloom, while and the Calm nature and Special Defense EVs allow it Rotom-H to take on Mega Charizard Y and take as little damage from the sound attacks that Rotom-H resists as possible.

A Timid nature is also viable with an EV spread of 156 HP / 132 SpD / 220 Spe, which is designed to outspeed Jolly Gyarados, Dragonite, and Mamoswine and lets Rotom-W survive two Sludge Bombs from minimum HP Mega Gengar what does HP have to do with Sludge Bomb? most of the time.

Usage Tips
========

Be careful about switching Rotom-H in, because while this set focus on bulk, any heavy damage Rotom-H takes is going to reduce the number of Substitutes it can make. Try to switch Rotom-H on Pokemon it safely checks such as Ferrothorn and Scizor or after a KO against Pokemon that will likely switch out such as Mega Mawile or Talonflame. This doesn't make sense. After a KO on a Pokemon that's going to switch out? Or do you mean the opponent does the KOing You don't have to constantly use Substitute if it doesn't fit the flow of the match, either; sometimes it's best to just burn switch-ins with Will-O-Wisp I added this because I thought it was "switch out Rotom, 'burning' a switch for your teammates" and keep Rotom-H's health up.

Team Options
========

Make sure to pack Pokemon with a Rock-type resistance, as most users of such moves tend to be faster than Rotom-H. Mega Heracross in particular can smash through Rotom-H's Substitutes with Rock Blast. Specially attacking Dragon-types such as Hydreigon and Latios can take anything that isn't Toxic and threaten to deal some serious damage, while Mega Charizard X sets up on Rotom-H. While Water-types are an extremely risky switch-in due to Substitute and Electric STAB type, they can switch in on Overheat and wreck wreak havoc. Calm Mind Suicune and Raikou are especially problematic in this case, as this Rotom-H is too weak to defeat them once they start setting up.

These problems make Ferrothorn an incredible partner. Ferrothorn resists Rock- and Water-type attacks, can take on Choice-locked Dragon-types, and, most of all, can use Leech Seed to restore some of Rotom-H's health. Mega Venusaur also works, being one of the best counters to Azumarill in the game. Serperior outpaces Calm Mind Suicune and can use a Focus Sash set to hit Dragon-types hard with a boosted Dragon Pulse. Breloom smashes through Azumarill and Tyranitar and can snipe weakened Hydreigon and hit Mega Charizard X hard with Rock Tomb if it has its Focus Sash intact. In return, Rotom-H helps these four Grass-types deal with Talonflame and Mega Salamence. A Calm Mind Raikou of your own is also helpful against Calm Mind Suicune and is hard for the special attacking Dragon-types to stop. Choice Scarf Garchomp does a great job against Mega Charizard X, Raikou, Dragonite, and Tyranitar in particular.

Consider using some setup sweepers to take advantage of Rotom-H's burning capabilities. Belly Drum Azumarill is an excellent choice, since it's so hard to stop its setup once physical attackers are burned. Mega Salamence and Mega Gyarados also synergize well with Rotom-H. Toxic support Pokemon allow Rotom-H to effectively outstall most walls. Porygon2 and Cresselia are reliable users of Toxic, but Aegislash and Mega Salamence are also great choices, since they lure in defensive Pokemon to handle them. You can even use Toxic Spikes Greninja to threaten Toxic damage for entire teams.

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

Rotom-H doesn't have many viable options that haven't been covered already. Reflect and Light Screen can be used with Light Clay to help setup sweepers, but giving up two moveslots is often too much for Rotom-H. Hex can be paired with Thunder Wave or Will-O-Wisp to smash Mega Gengar without Overheat, but it is otherwise weaker than Rotom-H's Electric STAB move. If you really dislike Swampert and Rhyperior, you can run Hidden Power Grass, but otherwise it's a wasted moveslot compared to Hidden Power Ice. Confuse Ray has synergy with Substitute, but it is much more luck based than Will-O-Wisp or Toxic.

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

**Dragon-types**: Hydreigon, Latios, Mega Latias, and Mega Altaria only really fear Choice Specs-boosted Hidden Power Ice and can otherwise use Rotom-H as setup bait or slam it welcome to the slam!!!! with their STAB moves. Facade Mega Salamence sets up without fear of Will-O-Wisp, while Dragonite sets up especially easily if it has Lum Berry. Mega Charizard X is immune to Will-O-Wisp, so it will set up on Rotom-H unless it Rotom-H has Thunder Wave.

**Tyranitar and Rhyperior**: Tyranitar's Rock typing and Sand Stream make it a real nightmare for Rotom-H, only fearing Will-O-Wisp. Even then, Rotom-H gets smashed by Rock Slide and Stone Edge. Assault Vest Rhyperior also avoids a 2HKO from Rotom-H and can even use Rock Blast to muscle past its Substitutes.

**Facade Mega Kangaskhan**: Mega Kangaskhan already usually OHKOes Rotom-H, but Facade means this Mega Kangaskhan doesn't even fear Will-O-Wisp.

**Bulky Fire-types**: Calm Heatran avoids a 2HKO from even Choice Specs Rotom-H and can cripple it Rotom-H with Toxic as long as it avoids Trick. Assault Vest Entei is extremely bulky and hits Rotom-H hard with Stone Edge. While Volcarona is OHKOed by Choice Specs-boosted Overheat, it can otherwise use Rotom-H as fodder to set up Quiver Dance.

**Stealth Rock**: Stealth Rock strips away 25% of Rotom-H's HP, which is especially punishing because Rotom-H often switches out due to Volt Switch and Overheat. Common users of Stealth Rock include Garchomp, Hippowdon, Tyranitar, Landorus-T, and Swampert.

**Offensive Ground-types**: Garchomp in particular easily takes Overheat and Electric moves and slams Rotom-H with Rock-type attacks, though it can't take Hidden Power Ice well. Landorus-T takes heavy damage from Overheat and Hidden Power Ice but can otherwise hit Rotom-H even harder with Rock-type attacks. Excadrill gets OHKOed by Overheat, but its Mold Breaker ability allows it to OHKO Rotom-H with Earthquake. All of these Pokemon also heavily punish constant uses of Volt Switch, especially if Rotom-H is Choice-locked.

**Mega Venusaur**: Thick Fat allows specially defensive Mega Venusaur to wall Rotom-H. Offensive and physically defensive Mega Venusaur also do well against Rotom-H, but they are 2HKOed by Choice Specs-boosted Overheat.

**Offensive Water-types**: Azumarill, Rotom-W, Greninja, and Gyarados all hit Rotom-H hard, but all of them hate Electric-type moves.

**Swampert**: Swampert only fears Will-O-Wisp if it's physically based, as it otherwise slams Rotom-H with its Water-type attacks, and can set up Stealth Rock or use Yawn fairly easily.

**Raikou**: Raikou gets beaten down hard by Choice Specs-boosted Overheat, but it can otherwise use Rotom-H as setup bait with Calm Mind and can use Substitute to soak up the first Overheat.

**Chansey / Blissey Chansey and Blissey **: As long as they avoid Trick, the pink blobs Chansey and Blissey totally wall Rotom-H with their massive Special Defense.

**Conkeldurr**: Assault Vest Conkeldurr uses Guts to absorb Will-O-Wisp and smack Rotom-H hard with a boosted Drain Punch. It only fears Choice Specs-boosted Overheat.

**Toxic Rotom-H**: In an ironic twist, opposing Rotom-H can sabotage your own Rotom-H with Toxic as long as you don't run Substitute.

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Last edited:

Theorymon

Have a wonderful day, wahoo!
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Moderator
Thank you very much GatoDelFuego , implemented your checks and clarified a lot of stuff on the sub set for ya!

This is now ready to serve onsite!
 

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