Sableye

[OVERVIEW]

Mega Sableye's excellent defensive Dark / Ghost typing gives it a single weakness, three immunities, and a resistance, allowing it to check common threats such as Tomohawk and Mega Medicham. In addition, it has an impressive movepool including Will-O-Wisp, Knock Off, Calm Mind, and Recover, allowing it to effectively support its teammates. Sablenite gives Sableye a new ability, Magic Bounce, which lets it stallbreak, keep hazards and status off the field, and bounce back Taunt, which makes spreading burns and setting up much easier for Mega Sableye. In its base forme, Sableye has a wonderful ability in Prankster, which still works on the turn that Sableye Mega Evolves and gives it the ability to act as an emergency check to physical sweepers. After Mega Evolving, Sableye also boasts great bulk, and that combined with its great defensive typing and fantastic ability means that it fits very well into defensive teams, particularly being very popular on stall teams.

However, Mega Sableye's low HP stat takes away from its bulk, while subpar base 85 offensive stats limit its damage output unless it has many Calm Mind boosts under its belt, although Foul Play can be used to mitigate this. Moreover, Mega Sableye's very poor Speed leaves it outsped by the vast majority of Pokemon and weak to revenge killers and powerful wallbreakers. Lastly, it is checked by common threats such as Manaphy and Volkraken, as well as popular Fairy-types such as Clefable and Mega Gardevoir.

[SET]
name: Utility
move 1: Recover
move 2: Will-O-Wisp
move 3: Knock Off
move 4: Foul Play / Toxic / Metal Burst
item: Sablenite
ability: Prankster
nature: Impish
evs: 252 HP / 4 Atk / 252 Def

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

Recover gives Mega Sableye a much-needed form of reliable recovery, while Will-O-Wisp allows it to cripple physically offensive threats, furthering its ability to act as a physical wall. Knock Off has the utility of removing items, allowing Mega Sableye to hinder Pokemon that would otherwise be free to switch into it, such as Assault Vest Colossoil and Choice Scarf Mollux.

Mega Sableye's final moveslot is dependent upon what it is required to check: Foul Play is preferred, as it prevents physical sweepers such as Cawmodore from setting up and in particular helps against Fire-type sweepers, which are immune to Will-O-Wisp, such as Mega Charizard X and Talonflame. Toxic cripples Fire-type switch-ins not named Heatran or Mollux and wears down opposing walls, while Metal Burst allows Mega Sableye to hit would-be checks such as Plasmanta, Mollux, Clefable, and defensive Sylveon hard. Snatch gives Mega Sableye the ability to steal the boosts of Pokemon that aim to use it as setup fodder such as Manaphy and Naviathan, as well as allowing it to wear down opposing walls faster by stealing their recovery moves.

Set Details
========

Prankster gives Sableye access to priority Will-O-Wisp, Recover, and Toxic before and on the turn it Mega Evolves, allowing it to act as an emergency check to physical sweepers. The above EV spread maximizes Mega Sableye's physical bulk, although more specially defensive spreads utilizing a Careful nature with 144, 96, or 168 Special Defense EVs can be used to avoid the 2HKO from Heatran, Gengar, and Stratagem, respectively.

Usage Tips
========

Before and during the turn that it Mega Evolves, Sableye has access to priority Will-O-Wisp. Therefore, the timing of Sableye's Mega Evolution is very important, as this priority Will-O-Wisp can be used to check offensive teams and physical sweepers your team may be weak to. Conversely, if Magic Bounce disables an opposing Pokemon, such as Skarmory, defensive Tomohawk, or Sticky Web Necturna, completely, it is wise to Mega Evolve as soon as possible. However, Sableye is a rather obvious lead, so it could be prudent to lead with a Pokemon that can deal with the opponent's most likely Mega Sableye check.

Using double switches can allow Sableye to switch in safely and Mega Evolve before the opposing team can set up Stealth Rock. Once Sableye has Mega Evolved, switch it into defensive Pokemon and hazard setters, such as defensive Tomohawk and Ferrothorn, unless they have a way of 2HKOing it. Spam Knock Off early on to remove items from opposing foes. Spamming Will-O-Wisp is also very useful for crippling foes, but be wary of giving Fire-types such as Pyroak and Charizard free switches in.

It is especially important to keep Sableye healthy by using Recover, as Sableye's very low Speed after Mega Evolution means that it will often have to take a hit before it can recover health. Therefore, it is best to switch Sableye into passive foes. Be aware that repeated entry hazard damage and chip damage from VoltTurn users can wear Sableye down, so use Recover accordingly to prevent this. Many Pokemon, such as Volkraken and Mollux, utilize moves that have secondary effects that can inflict status, such as Scald, Lava Plume, and Sludge Bomb, so be wary of switching into these moves.

Metal Burst variants should only utilize the move if Mega Sableye is no longer needed, as its low Speed will most likely prevent it from recovering after taking a powerful hit and retaliating. However, Metal Burst can be very useful for removing particular Pokemon that your team has trouble with.

Team Options
========

Stall and balance teams appreciate Mega Sableye's ability to spinblock and bounce back entry hazards, thus extending the longevity of the team. In particular, Mega Sableye fits on hazard-stacking teams, making hazard setters such as Skarmory, Tomohawk,and Ferrothorn good partners. Mega Sableye requires team support to deal with the Fairy- and Fire-types that check it, as well as powerful special attackers and both physical and special setup sweepers. Therefore, Jirachi and Pyroak are particularly good partners, as Jirachi has access to U-turn and Wish to help bring in Sableye safely, while Pyroak can form a solid physically defensive core with Sableye that can check many physical attackers. Pyroak can also utilize Aromatherapy to cure Sableye of status. Additionally, both Pyroak and Jirachi can set up Stealth Rock, while Mega Sableye can spinblock and bounce opposing Stealth Rock in return.

Pokemon that can deal with powerful special wallbreakers such as Mega Gardevoir and Mega Charizard Y are also good teammates. Chansey is the best example of such a partner, but Pokemon such as Assault Vest Tornadus-T and specially defensive Jirachi are also good options. This set is beaten by opposing Sableye if they run Calm Mind, so Mega Sableye appreciates Pokemon that can check that particular set, such as Clefable and Sylveon. Bulky Water- and Grass-types such as Slowbro and Rotom-W can help Mega Sableye deal with offensive Water-types such as Azumarill, Manaphy, and Volkraken.

On the flip side, Pokemon weak to entry hazards, such as Talonflame, Volkraken, and Kyurem-B, really appreciate Sableye's ability to force out common entry hazard setters. In addition, Knock Off allows Sableye to weaken many of its checks and Metal Burst can take some out completely, which other Pokemon can take advantage of. For instance, Sableye can Knock Off Colossoil's Assault Vest to allow a teammate such as Krilowatt to hit it harder, while one target for Metal Burst could be Mollux, which would allow non-Hidden Power Ground Naviathan to sweep.

[SET]
name: Calm Mind
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Recover
move 3: Will-O-Wisp
move 4: Shadow Ball
item: Sablenite
ability: Prankster
nature: Impish
evs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD

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

Calm Mind gives Mega Sableye the ability to boost its offensive and defensive prowess simultaneously, giving it impressive mixed bulk that allows it to stall out many offensive Pokemon after even just a single boost. Recover gives Sableye a much-needed form of reliable recovery, while Will-O-Wisp allows Mega Sableye to cripple physically offensive threats, furthering its ability to act as a physically defensive wall. Shadow Ball is preferred in the last slot because it has better neutral coverage than Dark Pulse.

Set Details
========
Prankster gives Sableye access to priority Will-O-Wisp, Recover, and Calm Mind before and on the turn it Mega Evolves, allowing it to act as an emergency check to physical sweepers with Will-O-Wisp or get some extra special bulk with Calm Mind.

The above EV spread maximizes Mega Sableye's physical bulk, although more specially defensive spreads utilizing a Careful nature and 144, 96, or 168 Special Defense EVs can be used to avoid the 2HKO from Heatran, Gengar, and Stratagem, respectively.

Usage Tips
========

Preferably, this set should look to Mega Evolve on the very first turn of play in order to prevent the opponent from setting Stealth Rock and other entry hazards. However, against offensive teams or teams with a strong physical attacker your team is weak to, it may be prudent to delay Mega Evolving Sableye in other to utilize its Prankster Will-O-Wisp. In the event that Sableye faces a special attacker before Mega Evolution, Prankster Calm Mind can allow Sableye to Mega Evolve without taking too much damage, depending on the power of the opposing Pokemon.

Early-game, Mega Sableye should use Recover and Will-O-Wisp to spread burns and bounce status and entry hazards while keeping itself healthy. Calm Mind should mainly be used in a defensive manner early-game to avoid 2HKOs from special attackers such as Volkraken and Syclant. Later in the game, you should look to create a chance for Mega Sableye to set up Calm Mind so that it can clean up the weakened opposing team.

Team Options
========

Hazard control from the likes of Skarmory, Colossoil, and Starmie can allow Mega Sableye to pick and choose when it Mega Evolves and by extension utilize its Prankster Will-O-Wisp more. Jirachi, Pyroak, and Volkraken, which check common Fairy-types, are also good teammates. Mega Sableye has trouble with Assault Vest Colossoil, which resists both of its STAB moves and can bounce back or take advantage of Will-O-Wisp with its abilities Rebound and Guts, respectively. Mega Sableye also dislikes Tomohawk, which can ruin its sweep with Prankster Haze; Pokemon such as Clefable and Azumarill can remove these common threats, giving Mega Sableye the chance to clean up.

In particular, stall teams greatly appreciate Mega Sableye's ability to act as a wincon, as well as bounce back entry hazards and status conditions. Pokemon that are common on stall teams can form strong defensive partnerships with Sableye. For instance, Chansey can wall the special attackers that trouble Mega Sableye, set up Stealth Rock, and act as a cleric, while Mega Sableye checks the powerful physical attackers that trouble Chansey, can absorb Knock Off for it, and can spinblock Pokemon trying to remove its Stealth Rock.

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

Snarl can be used instead of Shadow Ball to set up on special attackers more easily, as well as beat opposing Mega Sableye lacking it, and has the added bonus of hitting through Substitutes. However, this is at the cost of Base Power and the ability to hit Fairy- and Fighting-types. Fake Out can be used to allow Sableye to Mega Evolve safely. Taunt gives Sableye extra stallbreaking ability without the need to Mega Evolve, although Mega Sableye's low Speed makes this option very inefficient after Mega Evolution. Sucker Punch gives Sableye STAB priority, but it is very weak due to Sableye's poor offensive stats.

Checks and Counters
==============
**Fairy-types**: Boasting a resistance to Mega Sableye's Dark-type STAB moves, the majority of Fairies can typically take anything Mega Sableye dishes out, including burns, and can respond with their own super effective STAB moves. Clefable and Mega Altaria can remove burns with Heal Bell and heal off any damage they take with reliable recovery moves, while Mega Diancie can bounce back Sableye's burns. Note that Mega Gardevoir and Sylveon don't appreciate switching into Shadow Ball repeatedly, and Azumarill is crippled by Will-O-Wisp. However, these three all outspeed and OHKO Mega Sableye (Azumarill needs Choice Band or Belly Drum to do so, but at +6 it can OHKO even if burned).

**Fire-types**: Fire-types are immune to Will-O-Wisp, which means that not only is Sableye unable to cripple them, but all Fire-types can switch in on it for free if they predict a Will-O-Wisp correctly. This allows common Fire-types such as Mega Charizard X and Y and Volkraken to set up on or KO Mega Sableye, although physical sweepers such as Mega Charizard X have to watch out for Foul Play variants.

**Wallbreakers**: Powerful attackers such as Keldeo and Volkraken can hit Mega Sableye hard, sometimes even if it has already gotten a Calm Mind boost.

**Special Sweepers**: Setup sweepers such as Manaphy, Clefable, Keldeo, and Serperior can set up on and break down Mega Sableye. Although Will-O-Wisp won't cripple their offensive power, it can wear them down if their team is not able to remove status. Sweepers that can greatly boost their Special Attack through Tail Glow or Nasty Plot are particularly effective, as they can win the boosting war against Calm Mind variants of Mega Sableye outright. Calm Mind Naviathan also gets a special mention, as it is immune to Toxic, wins the boosting war against Calm Mind Sableye, uses the utility set as setup fodder, and is immune to Will-O-Wisp if it has Water Veil.

**Status Absorbers**: Lum Berry users such as Garchomp, Substitute users such as Mega Heracross, Poison Heal Pokemon such as Gliscor, and Fire-types such as Mega Charizard X and Talonflame all have ways of avoiding the burn from Mega Sableye's Will-O-Wisp, allowing them to set up on it. However, Sableye can hit them hard with Foul Play if they're not careful, with the exception of Bulk Up Talonflame, whose defensive boosts allow it to set up on Sableye.
 
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Actually, IRL events have just changed to dictate I won't have access to a computer until around Sunday, but I reckon I can finish Sableye and update Altaria before the end of Monday, if that's OK, sparktrain?

sounds good. -spark
 
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As promised, I've finished Sab. It's getting late and I'm feeling a little tired, so I'm a little fearful I've derped somewhere.

(Also, the triplepost is real)
 

snake

is a Community Leaderis a Top CAP Contributoris a Contributor to Smogon
CAP Co-Leader
Just skimmed through the analysis, few things I noticed:

AV Torn-T can't really do much to Mega Charizard Y, might want to note this

You might want to mention that Snarl hits through Subs

Sableye learns Recover not Slack Off :P
 

HeaLnDeaL

Let's Keep Fighting
is an Artistis a Forum Moderator Alumnusis a CAP Contributor Alumnus
smh, this is way too much to read, especially for only two sets.

[OVERVIEW]
+ Only 1 weakness – great defensive typing gives it 3 immunities and a resistance.
+ Wide support movepool including Will-O-Wisp, Knock Off, Foul Play and Calm Mind as well as reliable recovery in Recover. In particular, Will-O-Wisp allows it to cripple physical attackers.
+ Magic Bounce lets it stallbreak effectively, as well as keeping hazards and status off the field. Also gives it an immunity to Taunt which lets spread burns and set up much easier.
+ Base forme also has a wonderful ability in Prankster, which still works on the turn that Sableye Mega Evolves, and which gives Sableye the ability to act as an emergency check to physical sweepers
+ Good defensive stats with 125 base Defence and 115 base Special Defence.
- Low HP stat takes away from bulk.
- Very poor speed in Mega forme leaves it outsped by the vast majority of Pokémon, leaving it weak to revenge killers and powerful wallbreakers.
- Weak base 85 offences limit its damage output unless it has many Calm Mind boosts under its belt
- Checked by common threats such as Colossoil and Volkraken, as well as popular Fairy-types such as Clefable and Mega Gardevoir.

[SET]
name: Utility
move 1: Knock Off
move 2: Recover
move 3: Will-O-Wisp
move 4: Foul Play / Toxic / Metal Burst
item: Sablenite
ability: Prankster
nature: Impish
evs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 Atk

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
- Knock Off gives Mega Sableye a STAB attack, while simultaneously giving it the utility of removing items from those who switch-into it, allowing it to hinder Pokémon such as Assault Vest Colossoil and Choice Scarf Mollux which would otherwise be free to switch in upon it.
- Recover gives Sableye a much-needed form of reliable recovery.
- Will-O-Wisp allows Rotom-W Mega Sableye to cripple physically offensive threats, furthering its ability to act as a physically defensive wall.
- Mega Sableye's final moveslot is dependant upon what it is required to check: Foul Play prevents Fire-type sweepers such as Mega Charizard X and Talonflame from setting up on it, Toxic cripples Fire-type switch-ins not named Heatran or Mollux, Metal Burst allows it to hit would-be checks such as Mega Charizard Y and Mollux hard (and maybe mention weaker fairies such as clefable and bulky sylvy) Snatch gives Mega Sableye the ability to steal the boosts of Pokémon that aim to use it as set-up bait such as Manaphy and Naviathan.

Set Details
========
- Sablenite is necessary for Sableye to Mega Evolve. Prankster allows Sableye access to priority Will-O-Wisp, Recover and Toxic before Mega Evolution and on the turn in which Mega Evolves, allowing it to act as an emergency check to physical sweepers.
- The above EV spread maximises Mega Sableye's physical bulk, although more specially defensive spreads of 252 HP / 112 Def / 144 SpD and 252 HP / 160 Def / 96 SpD can be used to check Heatran and Gengar, respectively.

Usage Tips
========
- Before and including the turn that it Mega Evolves, Sableye has access to its base forme's ability Prankster, giving it access to priority Will-O-Wisp. Therefore, the timing of Sableye's Mega Evolution is very important, as this priority Will-O-Wisp can be used to check offensive teams and physical sweepers your team may be weak to. Conversely, if Magic Bounce disables an opposing Pokemon, such as Skarmory, defensive Tomohawk and Sticky Web Necturna, completely, it is wise to Mega Evolve as soon as possible.
- However, Sableye is a rather obvious lead, so it could be prudent to lead with a Pokemon that can deal with the opponent's most likely Mega Sableye check.
- Using double switches can allow Sableye to switch in safely and Mega Evolve before the opposing team can set up Stealth Rock. Once Sableye has Mega Evolved, switch it into defensive Pokemon and hazard setters, such as defensive Tomohawk and Ferrothorn, unless they have a way of 2HKOing it.
- Spam Knock Off early on to remove items from opposing foes.
- Spamming Will-O-Wisp is also very useful for crippling foes, but be wary of giving Fire-types such as Pyroak and Charizard free switch-ins.
- It is especially important to keep Sableye healthy by using Recover, as Sableye's very slow speed after Mega Evolution means that it will often have to take a hit before it can recover health. It is difficult to switch Sableye in safely if it is not kept healthy, except on Pokemon passive enough that Sableye can take two hits and survive despite its weakened health.
- Be aware that repeated entry hazard damage and chip damage from VoltTurn can wear down Sableye, and use Recover accordingly to prevent this.
- Pokemon with moves such as Scald, Lava Plume and Sludge Bomb that have secondary effects can inflict Sableye with status ailments that will wear it down, so be wary of switching into these moves.
- Metal Burst variants should only utilise Metal Burst if Sableye is no longer needed, as its low Speed will most likely prevent it from recovering after taking a powerful hit and retaliating with Metal Burst. Mention situations when metal burst is worth using maybe? You seem to have an overly negative view of the move here rather than talking about when it could/should be used.

Team Options
========
- Stall and Balance teams appreciate Mega Sableye's ability to spinblock in addition to bouncing back entry hazards. In particular, Mega Sableye fits on hazard-stacking teams, making hazard setters such as Skarmory, Tomohawk and Ferrothorn good partners.
- Mega Sableye requires team support to deal with the Fairy- and Fire-types which check it, as well as powerful special attackers and both physical and special set up sweepers.
- Mega Sableye needs teammates which can check common Fairy-types, such as Jirachi and Pyroak. These two are particularly good partners as Jirachi has access to U-turn and Wish to help bring in Sableye safely, while Pyroak can form a double Will-O-Wisp core err Pyroak doesn't use W-o-W as much as just plume which cripples many physical attackers, Aromatherapy to cure Sableye of any status which may wear it down otherwise and Mega Sableye bounces Stealth Rock away in return. Both Pyroak and Jirachi can also set up rocks of their own.
- Pokemon which can deal with powerful special wallbreakers such as Mega Gardevoir and Mega Charizard Y are also good teammates. Chansey is the best example of a partners which can deal with powerful special attackers Mega Sableye struggles with due to its great special bulk, but Pokemon such as Assault Vest Tornadus-T and specially defensive Jirachi are also good options.
- This set is beaten by opposing Sableye if they run Calm Mind, so Mega Sableye appreciates Pokemon which can check that particular set, such as Clefable and Sylveon.
- Bulky Water- and Grass-types such as Slowbro, Naviathan and Ferrothorn can help Mega Sableye deal with offensive Water-types such as Azumarril, Manaphy and Volkraken.
- On the flip side, Pokemon weak to entry hazards, such as Talonflame, Volkraken and Kyurem-B, really appreciate Sableye's ability to force out common entry hazard setters.
- In addition, Knock Off allows Sableye to weaken many of its checks and Metal Burst can take some out completely, which other Pokemon can take advantage. For instance, Sableye can Knock Off the Assault Vest from Colossoil to allow Pokemon such as Krilowatt to hit harder, while one target for Metal Burst may be Mollux, which would allow non-Hidden Power Ground Naviathan to sweep.

[SET]
name: Calm Mind
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Recover
move 3: Will-O-Wisp
move 4: Shadow Ball / Snarl
item: Sablenite
ability: Prankster
nature: Impish
evs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
- Calm Mind gives Mega Sableye the ability to boost its offensive and defensive prowess simulatenously, giving it impressive bulk on both sides on the defensive spectrum that allow it to stall out many offensive Pokémon after even just a single boost.
- Recover gives Sableye a much-needed form of reliable recovery.
- Will-O-Wisp allows Rotom-W to cripple physically offensive threats, furthering its ability to act as a physically defensive wall.
- Shadow Ball is preferred because it has the best neutral coverage, while Snarl can be used to set up on special attackers more easily, as well as beat opposing Mega Sableye lacking it and has the added bonus of hitting through Substitutes. However, this is at the cost of a lower Base Power and having Fairy- and Fighting-types resist it.

Set Details
========
- Sablenite is necessary for Sableye to Mega Evolve.
- Prankster allows Sableye access to priority Will-O-Wisp, Recover and Calm Mind before Mega Evolution and on the turn in which Mega Evolves, allowing it to act as an emergency check to physical sweepers with Will-O-Wisp or get some extra special bulk with Calm Mind.
- The above EV spread maximises Mega Sableye's physical bulk, although more specially defensive spreads of 252 HP / 112 Def / 144 SpD and 252 HP / 160 Def / 96 SpD can be used to check Heatran and Gengar, respectively.

Usage Tips
========
- Preferably, this set should look to Mega Evolve on the very first turn of play in order to prevent the opponent from Stealth Rock and other entry hazards. However, against offensive teams or teams with a strong physical attacker your team is weak to, it may be prudent to delay Mega Evolving Sableye in other to utilise its Prankster Will-O-Wisp.
- In the event that Sableye faces a special attacker before Mega Evolution, Prankster Calm Mind can allow Sableye to Mega Evolve without taking too much damage, depending on the power of the opposing Pokemon.
- Early game, Mega Sableye should use Recover and Will-O-Wisp to spread burns and bounce status and entry hazards while keeping itself healthy. Calm Mind should mainly be used in defensive manner early game to avoid 2KOs from certain special attackers.
- Later in the game, you should look to create a chance for Mega Sableye to set up Calm Mind, allowing it to set up and clean up the weakened opposing team.
- You need to talk about choosing carefully when to mega evolve ESPECIALLY since there are niche situations in which priority calm mind and recover an keep it around longer (this set can abuse prankster a bit better than the other one)

Team Options
========
- Hazard control from the likes of Skarmory, Colossoil and Starmie can allow Mega Sableye to pick and choose when it Mega Evolves, allowing to abuse Prankster Will-O-Wisp.
- Pokemon such as Jirachi, Pyroak and Volkraken which can check common Fairy-types are also good teammates.
- Assault Vest Colossoil resists both of Mega Sableye's STABs, while its abilities Rebound and Guts can bounce back and take advantage of Will-O-Wisp, respectively. On the other hand, Sableye can wall Colossoil if it doesn't have the Guts boost. Tomohawk can ruin Sableye's sweep with Prankster Haze, although defensive sets cannot really do much else to Sableye. Pokemon such as Clefable and Azumarril which can remove these common threats can allow Mega Sableye the chance to clean up.
-Why are these team options so much more barren than the other set's? A lot of the things left out here can still apply (not all, but a lot).

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=========
- Protect and Fake Out can be used to allow Sableye to Mega Evolve early. Protect has the advantage of scouting movesets, while Fake Out has very small chip damage but doesn't give the opponent a free turn to set up or heal damage.
- Taunt can be used to give Sableye extra stallbreaking ability without the need to Mega Evolve, although Mega Sableye's low speed makes it very inefficient after Mega Evolution.
- Sucker Punch gives Sableye STAB Priority, but it is very weak due to Sableye's poor offensive stats.
- Non-Mega Sableye can also stallbreak if a Mega Pokémon is already in your team, but it is largely outclassed by other stallbreakers such as Naviathan.

Checks and Counters
==============
**Fairy-types**: Fairy-types can hit many common threats in the CAP Metagame super effectively, and Mega Sableye is no exception. Boasting a resistance to Mega Sableye's Dark-type STAB moves, the majority of Fairies can also take anything Mega Sableye dishes out, including burns, and respond with their own super effective STAB moves. Clefable and Mega Altaria can remove burns with Heal Bell and heal off any damage they take with reliable recovery moves, while Mega Diancie can bounce back Sableye's burns. Mega Gardevoir and Sylveon don't appreciate switching into Shadow Ball repeatedly, while Azumarril is crippled by Will-O-Wisp. However, these three all outspeed and OHKO Mega Sableye (Azumarril needs Choice Band or Belly Drum, but at +6 it can OHKO even if burned).
**Fire-types**: Fire-types are immune to Will-O-Wisp, which means that not only can Sableye not cripple them, but all Fire-types can switch in on Sableye for free if they predict a Will-O-Wisp correctly. This allows common Fire-types such as the two Mega Charizard formes and Volkraken to set up on or KO Mega Sableye.
**Wallbreakers**: Powerful attackers such as Keldeo and Volkraken can hit Mega Sableye hard, sometimes even if Sableye has already got a Calm Mind boost.
**Special sweepers**: Set up sweepers such as Manaphy, Clefable, Keldeo and Serperior can set up on and break down Mega Sableye. Although Will-O-Wisp won't cripple their offensive power, it can wear them down if the opposition is not able to remove status. Sweepers which can boost their special attack multiple stages, such as through Tail Glow or Nasty Plot, are particularly effective as they can win the boosting war with Calm Mind variants of Mega Sableye outright.
**Physical sweepers that don't fear Will-O-Wisp**: Lum Berry users such as Garchomp Gyarados? Dragonite? Both seem to use it more than chomp, Substitute users such as Mega Heracross, Poison Heal abusers such as Gliscor and Fire-types such as Mega Charizard X and Talonflame all have ways of avoiding the burn from Mega Sableye's Will-O-Wisp, allowing them to set up on it. However, Sableye can hit them hard with Foul Play if they're not careful, with the exception of Bulk Up Talonflame whose defensive boosts allow it to set up on Sableye.
QC 1/3 I guess
 
hi I have stuff

Overview

- Magic Bounce doesn't technically provide a *true* immunity to Taunt, compared to Oblivious or Aroma Veil. e.g. Mega Sableye uses Taunt against another Mega Sableye, Taunt is bounced, Mega Sableye ends up taunted. So reword immunity -> "bounces back Taunt" or something similar.
- Mention how it fits incredibly well on stall / defensive teams, nearly a staple

Utility (moves)
- I'd like to see Recover and Will-O-Wisp as the first two moves due to their importance to Mega Sableye's role.
- Mega Charizard Y probably isn't the best example of a Metal Burst target (252 SpA Mega Charizard Y Fire Blast vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Mega Sableye in Sun: 279-328 (91.7 - 107.8%) -- 50% chance to OHKO), put something like Plasmanta instead

Utility (set details)
- The Mega Stone doesn't need to be mentioned unless the mon is viable without the stone, which in Sableye's case it isn't.
- I messed around with the calc and I'm assuming both of the alternate spreads are meant to be used with a Careful nature, so clarify that.
252 SpA Life Orb Gengar Shadow Ball vs. 252 HP / 96+ SpD Mega Sableye: 126-149 (41.4 - 49%) -- guaranteed 3HKO
252 SpA Heatran Fire Blast vs. 252 HP / 144+ SpD Mega Sableye: 127-151 (41.7 - 49.6%) -- guaranteed 3HKO
^it wouldn't hurt to mention the specific 2HKOes each spread avoids.
- 168 SpD w/ Careful is enough to avoid the 2HKO from LO Stratagem's Ancient Power.

Utility (team options)
- "Pyroak can form a double Will-O-Wisp core which cripples many physical attackers" afaik Pyroak usually opts for Lava Plume > wisp
- "Bulky Water- and Grass-types such as Slowbro, Naviathan and Ferrothorn can help Mega Sableye deal with offensive Water-types such as Azumarril, Manaphy and Volkraken." Ferrothorn can't handle Volkraken unless it's choice locked into a non-Fire move, and Naviathan is shaky since even Heatproof variants can't switch into it very well.

Calm Mind (moves)
- Between the less than perfect accuracy, the low BP, and the high prevalence of Dark resists, I don't think Snarl is good enough for a slash and is more suited for OO. I get what Snarl does, but Shadow Ball is just way more consistent.
- I'd like the HP EVs to be consistent between the two sets. 248 HP does lower SR damage by a point, but... you're using a mon that can bounce back rocks, so I think 252 HP would be fine. If others disagree with me here that's fine, but I'd like for there to be consistency.

Calm Mind (set details)
- same stuff from utility set details applies here

Other Options
- Remove Protect. Fake Out is easily the better method of ensuring a safe Mega Evolution since it doesn't give the opponent a free turn. Sableye can Mega Evolve against the relevant Ghost-types safely enough anyway, and Protect just gives stuff like Tail Glow Aurumoth a free turn of setup.
- remove regular sab because it's ass

Checks and Counters
- add CM Naviathan. Immune to Toxic, two anti-burn abilities, uses utility mega sab as setup fodder, can beat CM mega sab in a boosting war because sab has no passive recovery and will have to recover much more often than navi to deal with the inevitable scald burn.
 
Will (hopefully) get this done by the end of tomorrow.
I have noticed your checks and I have set aside time (unless any unexpected new commitments come up) to do it tomorrow.
 

cbrevan

spin, spin, spin
is a CAP Contributoris a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Forum Moderator Alumnus
[OVERVIEW]
Sableye and its Mega forme both have an excellent defensive typing of Ghost/Dark, which means that they have have only a single weakness, Fairy, while having 3 immunities and a resistance. Which allows them to check top threats such as...They also both have an impressive movepool including Will-O-Wisp, Knock Off, Calm Mind and Recover, allowing them to support their teammates effectively. However, it is Sablenite which transforms Sableye from mediocrity into the OU stable which it is today.
None of the sets are about regular Sableye so you can take away the emphasis on it from the first paragraph. For all intents and purposes this should be solely about Mega Sabeleye.
Sablenite gives Sableye a new ability, Magic Bounce, which lets it stallbreak effectively, as well as keeping hazards and status off the field. It also gives it the ability to bounce back Taunts, which makes spreading burns and setting up much easier for Mega Sableye. The base forme also has a wonderful ability in Prankster, which still works on the turn that Sableye Mega Evolves, and which gives Sableye the ability to act as an emergency check to physical sweepers. After Mega Evolution, Sableye can also boast great bulk, with 125 base Defence and 115 base Special Defence. Mega Sableye's great defensive typing, bulk and fantastic ability means that it fits very well into defensive teams, making it very popular on stall teams.

Sableye doesn't have everything going for it though; a low HP stat takes away from its bulk, while weak base 85 offences limit its damage output unless it has many Calm Mind boosts under its belt. Foul Play helps mitigate this as well. In addition, its very poor speed in Mega forme leaves it outsped by the vast majority of Pokémon, leaving it weak to revenge killers and powerful wallbreakers. Lastly, it is checked by common threats such as Colossoil and Volkraken, as well as popular Fairy-types such as Clefable and Mega Gardevoir.Colossoil really isn't the best mention here as it has trouble actually breaking through Sableye if its not able to pick up the Guts boost. Neither Pokemon enjoys the other really, so a wallbreaker such as Manaphy would be more apt.

[SET]
name: Utility
move 1: Recover
move 2: Will-O-Wisp
move 3: Knock Off
move 4: Foul Play / Toxic / Metal Burst
item: Sablenite
ability: Prankster
nature: Impish
evs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 Atk

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Recover gives Sableye a much-needed form of reliable recovery, while Will-O-Wisp allows Mega Sableye cripple physically offensive threats, furthering its ability to act as a physically defensive wall. Knock Off gives Mega Sableye a STAB attack, while simultaneously giving it the utility of removing items from those who switch-into it, allowing it to hinder Pokémon such as Assault Vest Colossoil and Choice Scarf Mollux which would otherwise be free to switch in upon it.

Mega Sableye's final moveslot is dependant upon what it is required to check: Foul Play prevents Fire-type sweepers such as Mega Charizard X and Talonflame from setting up on it, Toxic cripples Fire-type switch-ins not named Heatran or Mollux, Metal Burst allows it to hit would-be checks such as Plasmanta, Mollux, Clefable and defensive Sylveon hard and Snatch gives Mega Sableye the ability to steal the boosts of Pokémon that aim to use it as set-up bait such as Manaphy and Naviathan.Foul Play isn't limited to Fire-types, it does decent damage to a wide host of physical attackers and helps a lot against Cawmodore. Toxic helps wear down opposing walls faster, as does Snatch by preventing walls from recovering.

Set Details
========
Prankster allows Sableye access to priority Will-O-Wisp, Recover and Toxic before Mega Evolution and on the turn in which Mega Evolves, allowing it to act as an emergency check to physical sweepers.

The above EV spread maximises Mega Sableye's physical bulk, although more specially defensive spreads utilising a Careful nature with 144 SpD EVs, 96 SpD EVs and 168 SpD can be used to avoid the 2HKO from Heatran, Gengar and Stratagem, respectively.

Usage Tips
========
Before and including the turn that it Mega Evolves, Sableye has access to its base forme's ability Prankster, giving it access to priority Will-O-Wisp. Therefore, the timing of Sableye's Mega Evolution is very important, as this priority Will-O-Wisp can be used to check offensive teams and physical sweepers your team may be weak to. Conversely, if Magic Bounce disables an opposing Pokemon, such as Skarmory, defensive Tomohawk and Sticky Web Necturna, completely, it is wise to Mega Evolve as soon as possible. However, Sableye is a rather obvious lead, so it could be prudent to lead with a Pokemon that can deal with the opponent's most likely Mega Sableye check.

Using double switches can allow Sableye to switch in safely and Mega Evolve before the opposing team can set up Stealth Rock. Once Sableye has Mega Evolved, switch it into defensive Pokemon and hazard setters, such as defensive Tomohawk and Ferrothorn, unless they have a way of 2HKOing it. Spam Knock Off early on to remove items from opposing foes. Spamming Will-O-Wisp is also very useful for crippling foes, but be wary of giving Fire-types such as Pyroak and Charizard free switch-ins.

It is especially important to keep Sableye healthy by using Recover, as Sableye's very slow speed after Mega Evolution means that it will often have to take a hit before it can recover health. It is difficult to switch Sableye in safely if it is not kept healthy, except on Pokemon passive enough that Sableye can take two hits and survive despite its weakened health. Be aware that repeated entry hazard damage and chip damage from VoltTurn can wear down Sableye, and use Recover accordingly to prevent this. Pokemon with moves such as Scald, Lava Plume and Sludge Bomb that have secondary effects can inflict Sableye with status ailments that will wear it down, so be wary of switching into these moves.Give some examples of said Pokemon.

Metal Burst variants should only utilise Metal Burst if Sableye is no longer needed, as its low Speed will most likely prevent it from recovering after taking a powerful hit and retaliating with Metal Burst. Metal Burst can also be used to remove a particular Pokemon that the rest of the team has trouble with.

Team Options
========
Stall and Balance teams appreciate Mega Sableye's ability to spinblock in addition to bouncing back entry hazards. In particular, Mega Sableye fits on hazard-stacking teams, making hazard setters such as Skarmory, Tomohawk and Ferrothorn good partners.
Exmphasize how Mega Sableye's ability to deny hazards is integral to most stall teams and greatly extends the longevity of the team.

Mega Sableye requires team support to deal with the Fairy- and Fire-types which check it, as well as powerful special attackers and both physical and special set up sweepers. Mega Sableye needs teammates which can check common Fairy-types, such as Jirachi and Pyroak. These two are particularly good partners as Jirachi has access to U-turn and Wish to help bring in Sableye safely, while Pyroak can form a solid physically defensive core which can check many physical attackers, Aromatherapy to cure Sableye of any status which may wear it down otherwise and Mega Sableye bounces Stealth Rock away in return. Both Pyroak and Jirachi can also set up Stealth Rocks of their own.

Pokemon which can deal with powerful special wallbreakers such as Mega Gardevoir and Mega Charizard Y are also good teammates. Chansey is the best example of a partners which can deal with powerful special attackers Mega Sableye struggles with due to its great special bulk, but Pokemon such as Assault Vest Tornadus-T and specially defensive Jirachi are also good options. This set is beaten by opposing Sableye if they run Calm Mind, so Mega Sableye appreciates Pokemon which can check that particular set, such as Clefable and Sylveon. Bulky Water- and Grass-types such as Slowbro and Rotom-Wash can help Mega Sableye deal with offensive Water-types such as Azumarril, Manaphy and Volkraken.

On the flip side, Pokemon weak to entry hazards, such as Talonflame, Volkraken and Kyurem-B, really appreciate Sableye's ability to force out common entry hazard setters. In addition, Knock Off allows Sableye to weaken many of its checks and Metal Burst can take some out completely, which other Pokemon can take advantage. For instance, Sableye can Knock Off the Assault Vest from Colossoil to allow Pokemon such as Krilowatt to hit harder, while one target for Metal Burst may be Mollux, which would allow non-Hidden Power Ground Naviathan to sweep.

[SET]
name: Calm Mind
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Recover
move 3: Will-O-Wisp
move 4: Shadow Ball
item: Sablenite
ability: Prankster
nature: Impish
evs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Calm Mind gives Mega Sableye the ability to boost its offensive and defensive prowess simulatenously, giving it impressive bulk on both sides on the defensive spectrum that allow it to stall out many offensive Pokémon after even just a single boost. Some examples would be nice. Recover gives Sableye a much-needed form of reliable recovery, while Will-O-Wisp allows Rotom-W to cripple physically offensive threats, furthering its ability to act as a physically defensive wall. Shadow Ball is preferred because it has better neutral coverage than Dark Pulse.

Set Details
========
Prankster allows Sableye access to priority Will-O-Wisp, Recover and Calm Mind before Mega Evolution and on the turn in which Mega Evolves, allowing it to act as an emergency check to physical sweepers with Will-O-Wisp or get some extra special bulk with Calm Mind.

The above EV spread maximises Mega Sableye's physical bulk, although more specially defensive spreads utilising a Careful nature and 144 SpD EVs, 96 SpD EVs and 168 SpD can be used to avoid the 2HKO from Heatran, Gengar and Stratagem, respectively.

Usage Tips
========
Preferably, this set should look to Mega Evolve on the very first turn of play in order to prevent the opponent from Stealth Rock and other entry hazards. However, against offensive teams or teams with a strong physical attacker your team is weak to, it may be prudent to delay Mega Evolving Sableye in other to utilise its Prankster Will-O-Wisp. In the event that Sableye faces a special attacker before Mega Evolution, Prankster Calm Mind can allow Sableye to Mega Evolve without taking too much damage, depending on the power of the opposing Pokemon.

Early game, Mega Sableye should use Recover and Will-O-Wisp to spread burns and bounce status and entry hazards while keeping itself healthy. Calm Mind should mainly be used in defensive manner early game to avoid 2KOs from certain special attackers. Such as... Later in the game, you should look to create a chance for Mega Sableye to set up Calm Mind, allowing it to set up and clean up the weakened opposing team.

Team Options
========
Hazard control from the likes of Skarmory, Colossoil and Starmie can allow Mega Sableye to pick and choose when it Mega Evolves, allowing to abuse Prankster Will-O-Wisp. Pokemon such as Jirachi, Pyroak and Volkraken which can check common Fairy-types are also good teammates. Assault Vest Colossoil resists both of Mega Sableye's STABs, while its abilities Rebound and Guts can bounce back and take advantage of Will-O-Wisp, respectively. On the other hand, Sableye can wall Colossoil if it doesn't have the Guts boost. Tomohawk can ruin Sableye's sweep with Prankster Haze, although defensive sets cannot really do much else to Sableye. Pokemon such as Clefable and Azumarril which can remove these common threats can allow Mega Sableye the chance to clean up.
I feel like some mention of its use as a win con on stall teams is needed.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=========
Snarl can be used instead of Shadow Ball to set up on special attackers more easily, as well as beat opposing Mega Sableye lacking it and has the added bonus of hitting through Substitutes. However, this is at the cost of a lower Base Power and having Fairy- and Fighting-types resist it. In addition, Fake Out can be used to allow Sableye to Mega Evolve safely.

Taunt can be used to give Sableye extra stallbreaking ability without the need to Mega Evolve, although Mega Sableye's low speed makes it very inefficient after Mega Evolution. Sucker Punch gives Sableye STAB Priority, but it is very weak due to Sableye's poor offensive stats.

Checks and Counters
==============
**Fairy-types**: Fairy-types can hit many common threats in the CAP Metagame super effectively, and Mega Sableye is no exception. Boasting a resistance to Mega Sableye's Dark-type STAB moves, the majority of Fairies can also take anything Mega Sableye dishes out, including burns, and respond with their own super effective STAB moves. Clefable and Mega Altaria can remove burns with Heal Bell and heal off any damage they take with reliable recovery moves, while Mega Diancie can bounce back Sableye's burns. Mega Gardevoir and Sylveon don't appreciate switching into Shadow Ball repeatedly, while Azumarril is crippled by Will-O-Wisp. However, these three all outspeed and OHKO Mega Sableye (Azumarril needs Choice Band or Belly Drum, but at +6 it can OHKO even if burned).

**Fire-types**: Fire-types are immune to Will-O-Wisp, which means that not only can Sableye not cripple them, but all Fire-types can switch in on Sableye for free if they predict a Will-O-Wisp correctly. This allows common Fire-types such as the two Mega Charizard formes and Volkraken to set up on or KO Mega Sableye.Charizard X has to be weary of Foul Play.

**Wallbreakers**: Powerful attackers such as Keldeo and Volkraken can hit Mega Sableye hard, sometimes even if Sableye has already got a Calm Mind boost.

**Special sweepers**: Set up sweepers such as Manaphy, Clefable, Keldeo and Serperior can set up on and break down Mega Sableye. Although Will-O-Wisp won't cripple their offensive power, it can wear them down if the opposition is not able to remove status. Sweepers which can boost their special attack multiple stages, such as through Tail Glow or Nasty Plot, are particularly effective as they can win the boosting war with Calm Mind variants of Mega Sableye outright. Calm Mind Naviathan also gets a special mention as it is immune to Toxic, wins the boosting war with Calm Mind Sableye, uses the Utility set as set-up bait and Water Veil variants are immune to Will-O-Wisp.

**Physical sweepers that don't fear Will-O-Wisp**: Lum Berry users such as Garchomp, Substitute users such as Mega Heracross, Poison Heal abusers such as Gliscor and Fire-types such as Mega Charizard X and Talonflame all have ways of avoiding the burn from Mega Sableye's Will-O-Wisp, allowing them to set up on it. However, Sableye can hit them hard with Foul Play if they're not careful, with the exception of Bulk Up Talonflame whose defensive boosts allow it to set up on Sableye.

I've got some final comments for you but overall this is a solid analysis. Implement the check and get this to GP, QC 3/3.

 
[OVERVIEW]
Sableye and its Mega forme both have an excellent defensive typing of Ghost/Dark, which means that they have have only a single weakness, Fairy, while having 3 immunities and a resistance. Which allows them to check top threats such as...They also both have an impressive movepool including Will-O-Wisp, Knock Off, Calm Mind and Recover, allowing them to support their teammates effectively. However, it is Sablenite which transforms Sableye from mediocrity into the OU stable which it is today.
None of the sets are about regular Sableye so you can take away the emphasis on it from the first paragraph. For all intents and purposes this should be solely about Mega Sabeleye.
Sablenite gives Sableye a new ability, Magic Bounce, which lets it stallbreak effectively, as well as keeping hazards and status off the field. It also gives it the ability to bounce back Taunts, which makes spreading burns and setting up much easier for Mega Sableye. The base forme also has a wonderful ability in Prankster, which still works on the turn that Sableye Mega Evolves, and which gives Sableye the ability to act as an emergency check to physical sweepers. After Mega Evolution, Sableye can also boast great bulk, with 125 base Defence and 115 base Special Defence. Mega Sableye's great defensive typing, bulk and fantastic ability means that it fits very well into defensive teams, making it very popular on stall teams.

Sableye doesn't have everything going for it though; a low HP stat takes away from its bulk, while weak base 85 offences limit its damage output unless it has many Calm Mind boosts under its belt. Foul Play helps mitigate this as well. In addition, its very poor speed in Mega forme leaves it outsped by the vast majority of Pokémon, leaving it weak to revenge killers and powerful wallbreakers. Lastly, it is checked by common threats such as Colossoil and Volkraken, as well as popular Fairy-types such as Clefable and Mega Gardevoir.Colossoil really isn't the best mention here as it has trouble actually breaking through Sableye if its not able to pick up the Guts boost. Neither Pokemon enjoys the other really, so a wallbreaker such as Manaphy would be more apt.

[SET]
name: Utility
move 1: Recover
move 2: Will-O-Wisp
move 3: Knock Off
move 4: Foul Play / Toxic / Metal Burst
item: Sablenite
ability: Prankster
nature: Impish
evs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 Atk

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Recover gives Sableye a much-needed form of reliable recovery, while Will-O-Wisp allows Mega Sableye cripple physically offensive threats, furthering its ability to act as a physically defensive wall. Knock Off gives Mega Sableye a STAB attack, while simultaneously giving it the utility of removing items from those who switch-into it, allowing it to hinder Pokémon such as Assault Vest Colossoil and Choice Scarf Mollux which would otherwise be free to switch in upon it.

Mega Sableye's final moveslot is dependant upon what it is required to check: Foul Play prevents Fire-type sweepers such as Mega Charizard X and Talonflame from setting up on it, Toxic cripples Fire-type switch-ins not named Heatran or Mollux, Metal Burst allows it to hit would-be checks such as Plasmanta, Mollux, Clefable and defensive Sylveon hard and Snatch gives Mega Sableye the ability to steal the boosts of Pokémon that aim to use it as set-up bait such as Manaphy and Naviathan.Foul Play isn't limited to Fire-types, it does decent damage to a wide host of physical attackers and helps a lot against Cawmodore. Toxic helps wear down opposing walls faster, as does Snatch by preventing walls from recovering.

Set Details
========
Prankster allows Sableye access to priority Will-O-Wisp, Recover and Toxic before Mega Evolution and on the turn in which Mega Evolves, allowing it to act as an emergency check to physical sweepers.

The above EV spread maximises Mega Sableye's physical bulk, although more specially defensive spreads utilising a Careful nature with 144 SpD EVs, 96 SpD EVs and 168 SpD can be used to avoid the 2HKO from Heatran, Gengar and Stratagem, respectively.

Usage Tips
========
Before and including the turn that it Mega Evolves, Sableye has access to its base forme's ability Prankster, giving it access to priority Will-O-Wisp. Therefore, the timing of Sableye's Mega Evolution is very important, as this priority Will-O-Wisp can be used to check offensive teams and physical sweepers your team may be weak to. Conversely, if Magic Bounce disables an opposing Pokemon, such as Skarmory, defensive Tomohawk and Sticky Web Necturna, completely, it is wise to Mega Evolve as soon as possible. However, Sableye is a rather obvious lead, so it could be prudent to lead with a Pokemon that can deal with the opponent's most likely Mega Sableye check.

Using double switches can allow Sableye to switch in safely and Mega Evolve before the opposing team can set up Stealth Rock. Once Sableye has Mega Evolved, switch it into defensive Pokemon and hazard setters, such as defensive Tomohawk and Ferrothorn, unless they have a way of 2HKOing it. Spam Knock Off early on to remove items from opposing foes. Spamming Will-O-Wisp is also very useful for crippling foes, but be wary of giving Fire-types such as Pyroak and Charizard free switch-ins.

It is especially important to keep Sableye healthy by using Recover, as Sableye's very slow speed after Mega Evolution means that it will often have to take a hit before it can recover health. It is difficult to switch Sableye in safely if it is not kept healthy, except on Pokemon passive enough that Sableye can take two hits and survive despite its weakened health. Be aware that repeated entry hazard damage and chip damage from VoltTurn can wear down Sableye, and use Recover accordingly to prevent this. Pokemon with moves such as Scald, Lava Plume and Sludge Bomb that have secondary effects can inflict Sableye with status ailments that will wear it down, so be wary of switching into these moves.Give some examples of said Pokemon.

Metal Burst variants should only utilise Metal Burst if Sableye is no longer needed, as its low Speed will most likely prevent it from recovering after taking a powerful hit and retaliating with Metal Burst. Metal Burst can also be used to remove a particular Pokemon that the rest of the team has trouble with.

Team Options
========
Stall and Balance teams appreciate Mega Sableye's ability to spinblock in addition to bouncing back entry hazards. In particular, Mega Sableye fits on hazard-stacking teams, making hazard setters such as Skarmory, Tomohawk and Ferrothorn good partners.
Exmphasize how Mega Sableye's ability to deny hazards is integral to most stall teams and greatly extends the longevity of the team.

Mega Sableye requires team support to deal with the Fairy- and Fire-types which check it, as well as powerful special attackers and both physical and special set up sweepers. Mega Sableye needs teammates which can check common Fairy-types, such as Jirachi and Pyroak. These two are particularly good partners as Jirachi has access to U-turn and Wish to help bring in Sableye safely, while Pyroak can form a solid physically defensive core which can check many physical attackers, Aromatherapy to cure Sableye of any status which may wear it down otherwise and Mega Sableye bounces Stealth Rock away in return. Both Pyroak and Jirachi can also set up Stealth Rocks of their own.

Pokemon which can deal with powerful special wallbreakers such as Mega Gardevoir and Mega Charizard Y are also good teammates. Chansey is the best example of a partners which can deal with powerful special attackers Mega Sableye struggles with due to its great special bulk, but Pokemon such as Assault Vest Tornadus-T and specially defensive Jirachi are also good options. This set is beaten by opposing Sableye if they run Calm Mind, so Mega Sableye appreciates Pokemon which can check that particular set, such as Clefable and Sylveon. Bulky Water- and Grass-types such as Slowbro and Rotom-Wash can help Mega Sableye deal with offensive Water-types such as Azumarril, Manaphy and Volkraken.

On the flip side, Pokemon weak to entry hazards, such as Talonflame, Volkraken and Kyurem-B, really appreciate Sableye's ability to force out common entry hazard setters. In addition, Knock Off allows Sableye to weaken many of its checks and Metal Burst can take some out completely, which other Pokemon can take advantage. For instance, Sableye can Knock Off the Assault Vest from Colossoil to allow Pokemon such as Krilowatt to hit harder, while one target for Metal Burst may be Mollux, which would allow non-Hidden Power Ground Naviathan to sweep.

[SET]
name: Calm Mind
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Recover
move 3: Will-O-Wisp
move 4: Shadow Ball
item: Sablenite
ability: Prankster
nature: Impish
evs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Calm Mind gives Mega Sableye the ability to boost its offensive and defensive prowess simulatenously, giving it impressive bulk on both sides on the defensive spectrum that allow it to stall out many offensive Pokémon after even just a single boost. Some examples would be nice. Recover gives Sableye a much-needed form of reliable recovery, while Will-O-Wisp allows Rotom-W to cripple physically offensive threats, furthering its ability to act as a physically defensive wall. Shadow Ball is preferred because it has better neutral coverage than Dark Pulse.

Set Details
========
Prankster allows Sableye access to priority Will-O-Wisp, Recover and Calm Mind before Mega Evolution and on the turn in which Mega Evolves, allowing it to act as an emergency check to physical sweepers with Will-O-Wisp or get some extra special bulk with Calm Mind.

The above EV spread maximises Mega Sableye's physical bulk, although more specially defensive spreads utilising a Careful nature and 144 SpD EVs, 96 SpD EVs and 168 SpD can be used to avoid the 2HKO from Heatran, Gengar and Stratagem, respectively.

Usage Tips
========
Preferably, this set should look to Mega Evolve on the very first turn of play in order to prevent the opponent from Stealth Rock and other entry hazards. However, against offensive teams or teams with a strong physical attacker your team is weak to, it may be prudent to delay Mega Evolving Sableye in other to utilise its Prankster Will-O-Wisp. In the event that Sableye faces a special attacker before Mega Evolution, Prankster Calm Mind can allow Sableye to Mega Evolve without taking too much damage, depending on the power of the opposing Pokemon.

Early game, Mega Sableye should use Recover and Will-O-Wisp to spread burns and bounce status and entry hazards while keeping itself healthy. Calm Mind should mainly be used in defensive manner early game to avoid 2KOs from certain special attackers. Such as... Later in the game, you should look to create a chance for Mega Sableye to set up Calm Mind, allowing it to set up and clean up the weakened opposing team.

Team Options
========
Hazard control from the likes of Skarmory, Colossoil and Starmie can allow Mega Sableye to pick and choose when it Mega Evolves, allowing to abuse Prankster Will-O-Wisp. Pokemon such as Jirachi, Pyroak and Volkraken which can check common Fairy-types are also good teammates. Assault Vest Colossoil resists both of Mega Sableye's STABs, while its abilities Rebound and Guts can bounce back and take advantage of Will-O-Wisp, respectively. On the other hand, Sableye can wall Colossoil if it doesn't have the Guts boost. Tomohawk can ruin Sableye's sweep with Prankster Haze, although defensive sets cannot really do much else to Sableye. Pokemon such as Clefable and Azumarril which can remove these common threats can allow Mega Sableye the chance to clean up.
I feel like some mention of its use as a win con on stall teams is needed.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=========
Snarl can be used instead of Shadow Ball to set up on special attackers more easily, as well as beat opposing Mega Sableye lacking it and has the added bonus of hitting through Substitutes. However, this is at the cost of a lower Base Power and having Fairy- and Fighting-types resist it. In addition, Fake Out can be used to allow Sableye to Mega Evolve safely.

Taunt can be used to give Sableye extra stallbreaking ability without the need to Mega Evolve, although Mega Sableye's low speed makes it very inefficient after Mega Evolution. Sucker Punch gives Sableye STAB Priority, but it is very weak due to Sableye's poor offensive stats.

Checks and Counters
==============
**Fairy-types**: Fairy-types can hit many common threats in the CAP Metagame super effectively, and Mega Sableye is no exception. Boasting a resistance to Mega Sableye's Dark-type STAB moves, the majority of Fairies can also take anything Mega Sableye dishes out, including burns, and respond with their own super effective STAB moves. Clefable and Mega Altaria can remove burns with Heal Bell and heal off any damage they take with reliable recovery moves, while Mega Diancie can bounce back Sableye's burns. Mega Gardevoir and Sylveon don't appreciate switching into Shadow Ball repeatedly, while Azumarril is crippled by Will-O-Wisp. However, these three all outspeed and OHKO Mega Sableye (Azumarril needs Choice Band or Belly Drum, but at +6 it can OHKO even if burned).

**Fire-types**: Fire-types are immune to Will-O-Wisp, which means that not only can Sableye not cripple them, but all Fire-types can switch in on Sableye for free if they predict a Will-O-Wisp correctly. This allows common Fire-types such as the two Mega Charizard formes and Volkraken to set up on or KO Mega Sableye.Charizard X has to be weary of Foul Play.

**Wallbreakers**: Powerful attackers such as Keldeo and Volkraken can hit Mega Sableye hard, sometimes even if Sableye has already got a Calm Mind boost.

**Special sweepers**: Set up sweepers such as Manaphy, Clefable, Keldeo and Serperior can set up on and break down Mega Sableye. Although Will-O-Wisp won't cripple their offensive power, it can wear them down if the opposition is not able to remove status. Sweepers which can boost their special attack multiple stages, such as through Tail Glow or Nasty Plot, are particularly effective as they can win the boosting war with Calm Mind variants of Mega Sableye outright. Calm Mind Naviathan also gets a special mention as it is immune to Toxic, wins the boosting war with Calm Mind Sableye, uses the Utility set as set-up bait and Water Veil variants are immune to Will-O-Wisp.

**Physical sweepers that don't fear Will-O-Wisp**: Lum Berry users such as Garchomp, Substitute users such as Mega Heracross, Poison Heal abusers such as Gliscor and Fire-types such as Mega Charizard X and Talonflame all have ways of avoiding the burn from Mega Sableye's Will-O-Wisp, allowing them to set up on it. However, Sableye can hit them hard with Foul Play if they're not careful, with the exception of Bulk Up Talonflame whose defensive boosts allow it to set up on Sableye.

I've got some final comments for you but overall this is a solid analysis. Implement the check and get this to GP, QC 3/3.

Thanks, misty. Changes implemented
Really tired now...
 

Sobi

Banned deucer.
amcheck here! also, remember to post this in the grammar prose queue!

[OVERVIEW]
Mega Sableye's an excellent defensive Ghost / Dark typing defensive typing of Ghost/Dark, which means that they have have only gives it a single weakness, to Fairy, while having 3 immunities, (+comma) and a resistance, allowing it to check common threats such as Tomohawk and Mega Medicham. In addition, it also has an impressive movepool including that consists of Will-O-Wisp, Knock Off, Calm Mind, (+comma) and Recover, allowing them it to effectively support their its teammates effectively. Sablenite gives Sableye a new ability, Magic Bounce, which lets it stallbreak effectively, as well as keeping keep hazards and status off the field. It also gives it the ability to bounce back Taunts, which makes spreading burns and setting up much easier for Mega Sableye. The base forme also has a wonderful ability in Prankster, which still works on the turn that Sableye Mega Evolves, and which gives Sableye the ability to act as an emergency check to physical sweepers. After Mega Evolving Evolution, Sableye can also boast great bulk, with base 125 Defense and base 115 Special Defense 125 base Defence and 115 base Special Defence. Mega Sableye's great defensive typing, bulk and fantastic ability means that it fits very well into defensive teams, making it very popular on stall teams.

However, Mega Sableye's doesn't have everything going for it though; a low HP stat takes away from its bulk, while weak base 85 offences offensive stats limit its damage output unless it has many Calm Mind boosts under its belt, although Foul Play can be used to mitigate this. Moreover, its Mega forme's very poor Speed in Mega forme leaves it outsped by the vast majority of Pokemon Pokémon, leaving it and weak to revenge killers and powerful wallbreakers. Lastly, it is checked by common threats such as Manaphy and Volkraken, as well as popular Fairy-types such as Clefable and Mega Gardevoir.

[SET]
name: Utility
move 1: Recover
move 2: Will-O-Wisp
move 3: Knock Off
move 4: Foul Play / Toxic / Metal Burst
item: Sablenite
ability: Prankster
nature: Impish
evs: 252 HP / 4 Atk / 252 Def 252 Def / 4 Atk

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
(add space)
Recover gives Mega Sableye a much-needed form of reliable recovery, while Will-O-Wisp allows Mega Sableye it to cripple physically offensive threats, furthering its ability to act as a physically defensive wall. Knock Off gives Mega Sableye a STAB attack, while simultaneously giving it the utility of removing items from those who switch-into (-hyphen) it, allowing it to hinder Pokémon Pokemon which would otherwise be free to switch in upon it, such as Assault Vest Colossoil and Choice Scarf Mollux which would otherwise be free to switch in upon it.

Mega Sableye's final moveslot is dependant upon what it is required to check: Foul Play is preferred as it prevents physical sweepers such as Cawmodore from setting up on it, and in particular helps against Fire-type sweepers which are immune to Will-O-Wisp, such as Mega Charizard X and Talonflame which are immune to Will-O-Wisp. Toxic cripples Fire-type switch-ins not named Heatran or Mollux and wears down opposing walls, while Metal Burst allows it to hit would-be checks such as Plasmanta, Mollux, Clefable, (AC) and defensive Sylveon hard. Snatch gives Mega Sableye the ability to steal the boosts of Pokémon Pokemon that aim to use it as set-(-hyphen)up bait such as Manaphy and Naviathan, as well as allowing it to wear down opposing walls faster by stealing their recovery moves.

Set Details
========
(add space)
Prankster allows gives Sableye access to priority Will-O-Wisp, Recover, (AC) and Toxic before Mega Evolution Evolving and on the turn in which it Mega Evolves, allowing it to act as an emergency check to physical sweepers.(remove line break) The above EV spread maximiszes Mega Sableye's physical bulk, although more specially defensive spreads utiliszing a Careful nature with 144 SpD EVs, 96 SpD EVs, and 168 SpD EVs can be used to avoid the 2HKO from Heatran, Gengar, (AC) and Stratagem, respectively.

Usage Tips
========
(add space)
Before and including the turn that it Mega Evolves, Sableye has access to its base forme's ability Prankster, giving it access to priority Will-O-Wisp. Therefore, the timing of Sableye's Mega Evolution is very important, as this priority Will-O-Wisp can be used to check offensive teams and physical sweepers your team may be weak to. Conversely, if Magic Bounce disables an opposing Pokemon, such as Skarmory, defensive Tomohawk, (AC) and Sticky Web Necturna, (RC) completely, it is wise to Mega Evolve as soon as possible. However, Sableye is a rather obvious lead, so it could be prudent to lead with a Pokemon that can deal with the opponent's most likely Mega Sableye check.

Using double switches can allow Sableye to switch in safely and Mega Evolve before the opposing team can set up Stealth Rock. Once Sableye has Mega Evolved, switch it into defensive Pokemon and hazard setters, such as defensive Tomohawk and Ferrothorn, unless they have a way of 2HKOing it. Spam Knock Off early on to remove items from opposing foes. Spamming Will-O-Wisp is also very useful for crippling foes, but be wary of giving Fire-types such as Pyroak and Charizard free switch-ins.

It is especially important to keep Sableye healthy by using Recover, as Sableye's very slow Speed after Mega Evolution means that it will often have to take a hit before it can recover health. It is difficult to switch Sableye in safely if it is not kept healthy, except on Pokemon passive enough that Sableye can take two hits and survive despite its weakened health. (fluff, rather obvious) Be aware that repeated entry hazard damage and chip damage from VoltTurn users can wear down Sableye, and so use Recover accordingly to prevent this. Many Pokemon, such as Volkraken and Mollux, utilisze moves that have secondary effects which can inflict a status ailment upon Mega Sableye, such as Scald, Lava Plume, (AC) and Sludge Bomb that have secondary effects can inflict Sableye with status ailments that will wear it down, so be wary of switching into these moves.

Metal Burst variants should only utilise Metal Burst if Sableye is no longer needed, as its low Speed will most likely prevent it from recovering after taking a powerful hit and retaliating with Metal Burst. However, Metal Burst can be very useful for removing particular Pokemon which that your team has trouble with.

Team Options
========
(add space)
Stall and balance teams appreciate Mega Sableye's ability to spinblock in addition to bouncing bounce back entry hazards, thus extending the longevity of the team. Mega Sableye is an integral part of many Stall teams, as it keeps hazards off the field, and in doing so, greatly extends the longevity of the team. (you already mention the removal of hazards in the previous sentence (or it's implied) and you really need to cut down on this part, so I'll have to remove extraneous information / move information around) In particular, Mega Sableye fits on hazard-stacking teams, making hazard setters such as Skarmory, Tomohawk, (AC) and Ferrothorn good partners. (remove line break) Mega Sableye requires team support to deal with the Fairy- and Fire-types which check it, as well as powerful special attackers and both physical and special set(remove space)up sweepers. Therefore, Jirachi and Pyroak Mega Sableye needs teammates which can check common Fairy-types, such as Jirachi and Pyroak. These two are particularly good partners, (AC) as Jirachi has access to U-turn and Wish to help bring in Sableye safely, while Pyroak can form a solid physically defensive core which can check many physical attackers,. (RC, AP) Aromatherapy to cure Sableye of any status which may wear it down otherwise and Mega Sableye bounces Stealth Rock away in return. Both Pyroak and Jirachi can also set up Stealth Rocks of their own, and Mega Sableye can bounce Stealth Rock from the opposing side away in return. (the underlined part needs to be moved somewhere but I'm not sure which Pokemon you're talking about)

Pokemon which that can deal with powerful special wallbreakers such as Mega Gardevoir and Mega Charizard Y are also good teammates. Chansey is the best example of a partners which can deal with powerful special attackers , as Mega Sableye struggles with against them due to its great special bulk, but Pokemon such as Assault Vest Tornadus-T and specially defensive Jirachi are also good options (I tried, but I do not understand what is being said here). This set is beaten by opposing Sableye if they run Calm Mind, so Mega Sableye appreciates Pokemon which that can check that particular set, such as Clefable and Sylveon. Bulky Water- and Grass-types such as Slowbro and Rotom-Wash can help Mega Sableye deal with offensive Water-types such as Azumarrill, Manaphy, (AC) and Volkraken.

On the flip side, Pokemon weak to entry hazards, such as Talonflame, Volkraken, (AC) and Kyurem-B, really appreciate Sableye's ability to force out common entry hazard setters. In addition, Knock Off allows Sableye to weaken many of its checks and Metal Burst can take some out completely, which other Pokemon can take advantage. For instance, Sableye can Knock Off the Assault Vest from Colossoil to allow Pokemon such as Krilowatt to hit harder, while one target for Metal Burst may be Mollux, which would allow non-Hidden Power Ground Naviathan to sweep.

[SET]
name: Calm Mind
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Recover
move 3: Will-O-Wisp
move 4: Shadow Ball
item: Sablenite
ability: Prankster
nature: Impish
evs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
(add space)
Calm Mind gives Mega Sableye the ability to boost its offensive and defensive prowess simultaneously simulatenously, giving it impressive bulk both specially and physically on both sides on the defensive spectrum that which allows it to stall out many offensive Pokémon Pokemon after even just a single boost. Recover gives Sableye a much-needed form of reliable recovery, while Will-O-Wisp allows Rotom-W Mega Sableye (this analysis is for Mega Sableye, not Rotom-W!) to cripple physically offensive threats, furthering its ability to act as a physically defensive wall (this part was copied from the previous set - please reword it). Shadow Ball is preferred because it has better neutral coverage than Dark Pulse.

Set Details
========
Prankster allows Sableye access to priority Will-O-Wisp, Recover and Calm Mind before Mega Evolution and on the turn in which Mega Evolves, allowing it to act as an emergency check to physical sweepers with Will-O-Wisp or get some extra special bulk with Calm Mind.

The above EV spread maximises Mega Sableye's physical bulk, although more specially defensive spreads utilising a Careful nature and 144 SpD EVs, 96 SpD EVs and 168 SpD can be used to avoid the 2HKO from Heatran, Gengar and Stratagem, respectively.
(more or less copied from previous set - reword please)


Usage Tips
========
(add space)
Preferably, this set should look to Mega Evolve on the very first turn of play in order to prevent the opponent from setting Stealth Rock and other entry hazards. However, against offensive teams or teams with a strong physical attacker your team is weak to, it may be prudent to delay Mega Evolving Sableye in other to utilisze its Prankster Will-O-Wisp. In the event that Sableye faces a special attacker before Mega Evolution, Prankster Calm Mind can allow Sableye to Mega Evolve without taking too much damage, depending on the power of the opposing Pokemon.

Early-(AH)game, Mega Sableye should use Recover and Will-O-Wisp to spread burns and bounce status and entry hazards while keeping itself healthy. Calm Mind should mainly be used in a defensive manner early game to avoid 2HKOes from special attackers such as Volkraken and Syclant. Later in the game, you should look to create a chance for Mega Sableye to set up Calm Mind, allowing it to set up and clean up the weakened opposing team.

Team Options
========
(add space)
Hazard control from the likes of Skarmory, Colossoil, (AC) and Starmie can allow Mega Sableye to pick and choose when it Mega Evolves, allowing to abuse Prankster Will-O-Wisp. Pokemon such as Jirachi, Pyroak, (AC) and Volkraken which can check common Fairy-types are also good teammates. Assault Vest Colossoil resists both of Mega Sableye's STAB moves, while its abilities Rebound and Guts can bounce back and take advantage of Will-O-Wisp, respectively. On the other hand, Sableye can wall Colossoil if it doesn't have the Guts boost. Tomohawk can ruin Sableye's sweep with Prankster Haze, although defensive sets cannot really do much else to Sableye. Pokemon such as Clefable and Azumarril which can remove these common threats can allow Mega Sableye the chance to clean up.

In particular, stall teams greatly appreciate Sableye's ability to act as a wincon condition, as well as bouncing bounce back entry hazards and status conditions. Pokemon which are common on stall teams can form strong defensive partnerships with Sableye. For instance, Chansey can wall the special attackers which trouble Sableye, can set up Stealth Rock, (AC) and also act as a cleric for it, while Sableye checks the powerful physical attackers which trouble Chansey, can absorb Knock Off for it, (AC) and can spinblock does Pokemon trying to remove Chansey's Stealth Rocks.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=========
(add space)
Snarl can be used instead of Shadow Ball to set up on special attackers more easily, as well as beat opposing Mega Sableye lacking it and has the added bonus of hitting through Substitutes. However, this is at the cost of a lower Base Power and having Fairy- and Fighting-types resist it. In addition, Fake Out can be used to allow Sableye to Mega Evolve safely. (remove space)Taunt can be used to give Sableye extra stallbreaking ability without the need to Mega Evolve, although Mega Sableye's low Speed makes it very inefficient after Mega Evolution. Sucker Punch gives Sableye STAB priority, but it is very weak due to Sableye's poor offensive stats.

Checks and Counters
==============
**Fairy-types**: Fairy-types can hit many common threats in the CAP Metagame super effectively, and Mega Sableye is no exception. Boasting a resistance to Mega Sableye's Dark-type STAB moves, the majority of Fairies can also take anything Mega Sableye dishes out, including burns, and can respond with their own super effective STAB moves. Clefable and Mega Altaria can remove burns with Heal Bell and heal off any damage they take with reliable recovery moves, while Mega Diancie can bounce back Sableye's burns. Mega Gardevoir and Sylveon don't appreciate switching into Shadow Ball repeatedly, while Azumarril Azumarill is crippled by Will-O-Wisp. However, these three all outspeed and OHKO Mega Sableye (Azumarril Azumarill needs Choice Band or Belly Drum, but at +6 it can OHKO even if burned).
(SPACE)
**Fire-types**: Fire-types are immune to Will-O-Wisp, which means that not only can Sableye not cripple them, but all Fire-types can switch in on Sableye for free if they predict a Will-O-Wisp correctly. This allows common Fire-types such as the two Mega Charizard formes and Volkraken to set up on or KO Mega Sableye, although physical sweepers such as Mega Charizard X have to watch out for Foul Play variants.
(SPACE)
**Wallbreakers**: Powerful attackers such as Keldeo and Volkraken can hit Mega Sableye hard, sometimes even if Sableye has already got a Calm Mind boost.
(SPACE)
**Special Sweepers**: Set(remove space)up sweepers such as Manaphy, Clefable, Keldeo, (AC) and Serperior can set up on and break down Mega Sableye. Although Will-O-Wisp won't cripple their offensive power, it can wear them down if the opposition is not able to remove status. Sweepers which can greatly boost their Special Attack multiple stages, such as through Tail Glow or Nasty Plot, (RC) are particularly effective, (AC) as they can win the boosting war with Calm Mind variants of Mega Sableye outright. Calm Mind Naviathan also gets a special mention as it is immune to Toxic, wins the boosting war with Calm Mind Sableye, uses the Utility set as set-up bait, (AC) and its Water Veil variants are immune to Will-O-Wisp.
(SPACE)
**Physical sweepers that don't fear Will-O-Wisp Status Absorbers**: Lum Berry users such as Garchomp, Substitute users such as Mega Heracross, Poison Heal abusers such as Gliscor, (AC) and Fire-types such as Mega Charizard X and Talonflame all have ways of avoiding the burn from Mega Sableye's Will-O-Wisp, allowing them to set up on it. However, Sableye can hit them hard with Foul Play if they're not careful, with the exception of Bulk Up Talonflame whose defensive boosts allow it to set up on Sableye.
tagging The Dutch Plumberjack GatoDelFuego P Squared
just remember: as much as it's hard adapting to it, Smogon uses American English, not British English so utilise -> utilize, there's no accented "e" in Pokemon, if you're speaking about Mega Sableye, use Mega Sableye, and there were some parts copy/pasted so try not to do that.
 

GatoDelFuego

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My comments in green

[OVERVIEW]
Mega Sableye's an excellent defensive Ghost / Dark typing defensive typing of Ghost/Dark, which means that they have have only gives it a single weakness, to Fairy, while having 3 immunities, (+comma) and a resistance, allowing it to check common threats such as Tomohawk and Mega Medicham. In addition, it also has an impressive movepool including that consists of this can be kept Will-O-Wisp, Knock Off, Calm Mind, (+comma) and Recover, allowing them it to effectively support their its teammates effectively. Sablenite gives Sableye a new ability, Magic Bounce, which lets it stallbreak effectively, as well as keeping keep hazards and status off the field. It also gives it Mega Sableye the ability to bounce back Taunts, which makes spreading burns and setting up much easier for Mega Sableye. The base forme Sableye also has a wonderful ability in Prankster, which still works on the turn that Sableye Mega Evolves, and which gives Sableye the ability to act as an emergency check to physical sweepers. After Mega Evolving Evolution, Sableye can also boasts great bulk, with base 125 Defense and base 115 Special Defense 125 base Defence and 115 base Special Defence. Mega Sableye's great defensive typing, bulk, (AC) and fantastic ability means that it fits very well into defensive teams, making it very popular on stall teams.

However, Mega Sableye's doesn't have everything going for it though; a low HP stat takes away from its bulk, while weak base 85 offences offensive stats limit its damage output unless it has many Calm Mind boosts under its belt, although Foul Play can be used to mitigate this. Moreover, its Mega Sableye's forme's never say "forme" for Mega Evolutions very poor Speed in Mega forme leaves it outsped by the vast majority of Pokemon Pokémon, leaving it and weak to revenge killers and powerful wallbreakers. Lastly, it is checked by common threats such as Manaphy and Volkraken, as well as popular Fairy-types such as Clefable and Mega Gardevoir.

[SET]
name: Utility
move 1: Recover
move 2: Will-O-Wisp
move 3: Knock Off
move 4: Foul Play / Toxic / Metal Burst
item: Sablenite
ability: Prankster
nature: Impish
evs: 252 HP / 4 Atk / 252 Def 252 Def / 4 Atk

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
(add space)
Recover gives Mega Sableye a much-needed form of reliable recovery, while Will-O-Wisp allows Mega Sableye it to cripple physically offensive threats, furthering its ability to act as a physically defensive wall. Knock Off gives Mega Sableye a STAB attack, while simultaneously giving it the utility of removing items from those who switch-into (-hyphen) it, allowing it to hinder Pokémon Pokemon which would otherwise be free to switch in upon it, such as Assault Vest Colossoil and Choice Scarf Mollux which would otherwise be free to switch in upon it.

Mega Sableye's final moveslot is dependant upon what it is required to check: Foul Play is preferred as it prevents physical sweepers such as Cawmodore from setting up on it, and in particular helps against Fire-type sweepers which are immune to Will-O-Wisp, such as Mega Charizard X and Talonflame which are immune to Will-O-Wisp. Toxic cripples Fire-type switch-ins not named Heatran or Mollux and wears down opposing walls, while Metal Burst allows it Mega Sableye to hit would-be checks such as Plasmanta, Mollux, Clefable, (AC) and defensive Sylveon hard. Snatch gives Mega Sableye the ability to steal the boosts of Pokémon Pokemon that aim to use it as set-(-hyphen)up bait such as Manaphy and Naviathan, as well as allowing it to wear down opposing walls faster by stealing their recovery moves.

Set Details
========
(add space)
Prankster allows gives Sableye access to priority Will-O-Wisp, Recover, (AC) and Toxic before Mega Evolution Evolving and on the turn in which it Mega Evolves, allowing it to act as an emergency check to physical sweepers.(remove line break) The above EV spread maximiszes Mega Sableye's physical bulk, although more specially defensive spreads utiliszing a Careful nature with 144 SpD EVs, 96 SpD EVs, and or 168 SpD EVs can be used to avoid the 2HKO from Heatran, Gengar, (AC) and Stratagem, respectively.

Usage Tips
========
(add space)
Before and including the turn that it Mega Evolves, Sableye has access to its base forme's ability Prankster, giving it access to priority Will-O-Wisp. Therefore, the timing of Sableye's Mega Evolution is very important, as this priority Will-O-Wisp can be used to check offensive teams and physical sweepers your team may be weak to. Conversely, if Magic Bounce disables an opposing Pokemon, such as Skarmory, defensive Tomohawk, (AC) and Sticky Web Necturna, (RC) This comma needs to be kept completely, it is wise to Mega Evolve as soon as possible. However, Sableye is a rather obvious lead, so it could be prudent to lead with a Pokemon that can deal with the opponent's most likely Mega Sableye check.

Using double switches can allow Sableye to switch in safely and Mega Evolve before the opposing team can set up Stealth Rock. Once Sableye has Mega Evolved, switch it into defensive Pokemon and hazard setters, such as defensive Tomohawk and Ferrothorn, unless they have a way of 2HKOing it. Spam Knock Off early on to remove items from opposing foes. Spamming Will-O-Wisp is also very useful for crippling foes, but be wary of giving Fire-types such as Pyroak and Charizard free switch-ins.

It is especially important to keep Sableye healthy by using Recover, as Sableye's very slow Speed after Mega Evolution means that it will often have to take a hit before it can recover health. It is difficult to switch Sableye in safely if it is not kept healthy, except on Pokemon passive enough that Sableye can take two hits and survive despite its weakened health. (fluff, rather obvious) perhaps keep it up to "passive Pokemon", but after that yes it's fluff Be aware that repeated entry hazard damage and chip damage from VoltTurn users can wear down Sableye, and so use Recover accordingly to prevent this. Many Pokemon, such as Volkraken and Mollux, utilisze moves that have secondary effects which can inflict a status ailment upon Mega Sableye, such as Scald, Lava Plume, (AC) and Sludge Bomb that have secondary effects can inflict Sableye with status ailments that will wear it down, so be wary of switching into these moves.

Metal Burst variants should only utilize Metal Burst if Mega Sableye is no longer needed, as its low Speed will most likely prevent it from recovering after taking a powerful hit and retaliating with Metal Burst. However, Metal Burst can be very useful for removing particular Pokemon which that your team has trouble with. such as what?

Team Options
========
(add space)
Stall and balance teams appreciate Mega Sableye's ability to spinblock in addition to bouncing bounce back entry hazards, thus extending the longevity of the team. Mega Sableye is an integral part of many Stall teams, as it keeps hazards off the field, and in doing so, greatly extends the longevity of the team. (you already mention the removal of hazards in the previous sentence (or it's implied) and you really need to cut down on this part, so I'll have to remove extraneous information / move information around) In particular, Mega Sableye fits on hazard-stacking teams, making hazard setters such as Skarmory, Tomohawk, (AC) and Ferrothorn good partners. (remove line break) Mega Sableye requires team support to deal with the Fairy- and Fire-types which check it, as well as powerful special attackers and both physical and special set(remove space)up sweepers. Therefore, Jirachi and Pyroak Mega Sableye needs teammates which can check common Fairy-types, such as Jirachi and Pyroak. These two are particularly good partners, (AC) as Jirachi has access to U-turn and Wish to help bring in Sableye safely, while Pyroak can form a solid physically defensive core which can check many physical attackers,. (RC, AP) Aromatherapy to cure Sableye of any status which may wear it down otherwise and Mega Sableye bounces Stealth Rock away in return. I would keep aeromatherapy information in here. But it needs to be rephrased and I don't see the original sentence. Both Pyroak and Jirachi can also set up Stealth Rocks of their own, and Mega Sableye can bounce Stealth Rock from the opposing side away in return. (the underlined part needs to be moved somewhere but I'm not sure which Pokemon you're talking about)

Pokemon which that can deal with powerful special wallbreakers such as Mega Gardevoir and Mega Charizard Y are also good teammates. Chansey is the best example of a partners which can deal with powerful special attackers , as Mega Sableye struggles with against them due to its great special bulk, but Pokemon such as Assault Vest Tornadus-T and specially defensive Jirachi are also good options (I tried, but I do not understand what is being said here). just remove all in red and this will fit fine. This set is beaten by opposing Sableye if they run Calm Mind, so Mega Sableye appreciates Pokemon which that can check that particular set, such as Clefable and Sylveon. Bulky Water- and Grass-types such as Slowbro and Rotom-Wash can help Mega Sableye deal with offensive Water-types such as Azumarrill, Manaphy, (AC) and Volkraken.

On the flip side, Pokemon weak to entry hazards, such as Talonflame, Volkraken, (AC) and Kyurem-B, really appreciate Sableye's ability to force out common entry hazard setters. In addition, Knock Off allows Sableye to weaken many of its checks and Metal Burst can take some out completely, which other Pokemon can take advantage of. For instance, Sableye can Knock Off the Assault Vest from Colossoil to allow Pokemon such as Krilowatt to hit harder, while one target for Metal Burst may be Mollux, which would allow non-Hidden Power Ground Naviathan to sweep.

[SET]
name: Calm Mind
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Recover
move 3: Will-O-Wisp
move 4: Shadow Ball
item: Sablenite
ability: Prankster
nature: Impish
evs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
(add space)
Calm Mind gives Mega Sableye the ability to boost its offensive and defensive prowess simultaneously simulatenously, giving it impressive bulk both specially and physically on both sides on the defensive spectrum that which allows it to stall out many offensive Pokémon Pokemon after even just a single boost. Recover gives Sableye a much-needed form of reliable recovery, while Will-O-Wisp allows Rotom-W Mega Sableye (this analysis is for Mega Sableye, not Rotom-W!) to cripple physically offensive threats, furthering its ability to act as a physically defensive wall (this part was copied from the previous set - please reword it). don't worry about making each set sound unique. The information is what's important. Shadow Ball is preferred because it has better neutral coverage than Dark Pulse.

Set Details
========
Prankster allows Sableye access to priority Will-O-Wisp, Recover and Calm Mind before Mega Evolution and on the turn in which Mega Evolves, allowing it to act as an emergency check to physical sweepers with Will-O-Wisp or get some extra special bulk with Calm Mind.

The above EV spread maximises Mega Sableye's physical bulk, although more specially defensive spreads utilising a Careful nature and 144 SpD EVs, 96 SpD EVs and 168 SpD can be used to avoid the 2HKO from Heatran, Gengar and Stratagem, respectively.
(more or less copied from previous set - reword please) If the information is EXACTLY the same, then it's fine to keep. But there must be some differences, no?


Usage Tips
========
(add space)
Preferably, this set should look to Mega Evolve on the very first turn of play in order to prevent the opponent from setting Stealth Rock and other entry hazards. However, against offensive teams or teams with a strong physical attacker your team is weak to, it may be prudent to delay Mega Evolving Sableye in other to utilisze its Prankster Will-O-Wisp. In the event that Sableye faces a special attacker before Mega Evolution, Prankster Calm Mind can allow Sableye to Mega Evolve without taking too much damage, depending on the power of the opposing Pokemon.

Early-(AH)game, Mega Sableye should use Recover and Will-O-Wisp to spread burns and bounce status and entry hazards while keeping itself healthy. Calm Mind should mainly be used in a defensive manner early game to avoid 2HKOes from special attackers such as Volkraken and Syclant. Later in the game, you should look to create a chance for Mega Sableye to set up Calm Mind, allowing it to set up and clean up the weakened opposing team.

Team Options
========
(add space)
Hazard control from the likes of Skarmory, Colossoil, (AC) and Starmie can allow Mega Sableye to pick and choose when it Mega Evolves, allowing to abuse it to use Prankster Will-O-Wisp. Pokemon such as Jirachi, Pyroak, (AC) and Volkraken, (AC) which can check common Fairy-types, (AC) are also good teammates. Assault Vest Colossoil resists both of Mega Sableye's STAB moves, while its abilities Rebound and Guts can bounce back and take advantage of Will-O-Wisp, respectively. On the other hand, Mega Sableye can wall Colossoil if it doesn't have the Guts boost. Tomohawk can ruin Mega Sableye's sweep with Prankster Haze, although defensive sets cannot really do much else to Mega Sableye. Pokemon such as Clefable and Azumarril which that can remove these common threats can allow Mega Sableye the chance to clean up.

In particular, stall teams greatly appreciate Mega Sableye's ability to act as a wincon condition, as well as bouncing bounce back entry hazards and status conditions. Pokemon which are common on stall teams can form strong defensive partnerships with Sableye. For instance, Chansey can wall the special attackers which that trouble Mega Sableye, can set up Stealth Rock, (AC) and also act as a cleric for it, while Mega Sableye checks the powerful physical attackers which trouble Chansey, can absorb Knock Off for it, (AC) and can spinblock does Pokemon trying to remove Chansey's Stealth Rocks.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=========
(add space)
Snarl can be used instead of Shadow Ball to set up on special attackers more easily, as well as beat opposing Mega Sableye lacking it, (AC) and has the added bonus of hitting through Substitutes. However, this is at the cost of a lower Base Power and having the ability to hit Fairy- and Fighting-types resist it. In addition, Fake Out can be used to allow Sableye to Mega Evolve safely. (remove space)Taunt can be used to give Sableye extra stallbreaking ability without the need to Mega Evolve, although Mega Sableye's low Speed makes it very inefficient after Mega Evolution. Sucker Punch gives Sableye STAB priority, but it is very weak due to Sableye's poor offensive stats.

Checks and Counters
==============
**Fairy-types**: Fairy-types can hit many common threats in the CAP Metagame super effectively, and Mega Sableye is no exception. Boasting a resistance to Mega Sableye's Dark-type STAB moves, the majority of Fairies can also take anything Mega Sableye dishes out, including burns, and can respond with their own super effective STAB moves. Clefable and Mega Altaria can remove burns with Heal Bell and heal off any damage they take with reliable recovery moves, while Mega Diancie can bounce back Sableye's burns. Mega Gardevoir and Sylveon don't appreciate switching into Shadow Ball repeatedly, while Azumarril Azumarill is crippled by Will-O-Wisp. However, these three all outspeed and OHKO Mega Sableye (Azumarril Azumarill needs Choice Band or Belly Drum, but at +6 it can OHKO even if burned).
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**Fire-types**: Fire-types are immune to Will-O-Wisp, which means that not only can Sableye not cripple them, but all Fire-types can switch in on Sableye for free if they predict a Will-O-Wisp correctly. This allows common Fire-types such as the two Mega Charizard X and Y formes and Volkraken to set up on or KO Mega Sableye, although physical sweepers such as Mega Charizard X have to watch out for Foul Play variants.
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**Wallbreakers**: Powerful attackers such as Keldeo and Volkraken can hit Mega Sableye hard, sometimes even if Sableye has already got a Calm Mind boost.
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**Special Sweepers**: Set(remove space)up sweepers such as Manaphy, Clefable, Keldeo, (AC) and Serperior can set up on and break down Mega Sableye. Although Will-O-Wisp won't cripple their offensive power, it can wear them down if the opposition is not able to remove status. Sweepers which can greatly boost their Special Attack multiple stages, such as through Tail Glow or Nasty Plot, (RC) are particularly effective, (AC) as they can win the boosting war with Calm Mind variants of Mega Sableye outright. Calm Mind Naviathan also gets a special mention as it is immune to Toxic, wins the boosting war with Calm Mind Sableye, uses the utility set as setup bait, (AC) and its Water Veil variants are is immune to Will-O-Wisp if it has Water Veil.
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**Physical sweepers that don't fear Will-O-Wisp Status Absorbers**: Lum Berry users such as Garchomp, Substitute users such as Mega Heracross, Poison Heal abusers such as Gliscor, (AC) and Fire-types such as Mega Charizard X and Talonflame all have ways of avoiding the burn from Mega Sableye's Will-O-Wisp, allowing them to set up on it. However, Sableye can hit them hard with Foul Play if they're not careful, with the exception of Bulk Up Talonflame whose defensive boosts allow it to set up on Sableye.

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Sobi

Banned deucer.
...it also has an impressive movepool including that consists of this can be kept Will-O-Wisp, Knock Off, Calm Mind, (+comma) and Recover, allowing ....
The reason I changed "including" -> "that consists of" because frenzyplant told me that "including" implied that the movepool only contains those moves, so I'm not sure if this still applies here.
 

GatoDelFuego

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The reason I changed "including" -> "that consists of" because frenzyplant told me that "including" implied that the movepool only contains those moves, so I'm not sure if this still applies here.
I would actually say the opposite. "including" implies to me that those are a sample of the good moves it has, rather than just those 4. "It has an impressive movepool of these 4 moves" vs "it has an impressive movepool, here are a few of the good ones"
 

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