Swellow (BW2 Update) [QC: 3/3] [GP: 2/2]

Governess

A Beautiful Blossom Waiting to Bloom
is a Researcher Alumnusis a Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Media Contributor Alumnus
To-Do List

0. Get this analysis in skeleton form. []

I. Fix any errors pertaining to the content / set(s) of the analysis. []

II. Receive two QC Checks, fixing any mistakes along the way. []

III. Fully write out the analysis after the 2nd QC Check. []

IV. Receive the final QC Check when the written work has been looked over. []

V. Correct any obvious grammar-prose mistakes before handing it to GP. []

VI. Receive two GP Checks and have this analysis on-site. []

3/3: | Raseri | WhiteDMist | ebeast |
2/2: | Redew | GatoDelFuego |

Skeleton said:
[Overview]
  • Known as one of the fastest Pokemon in the tier.
  • Guts - allows Swellow to inflict massive damage on almost all of NU.
  • Works best (and only) as a mid-game sweeper.
  • Subpar defenses + SR weakness + Toxic Orb + Brave Bird recoil= can be worn down pretty quickly
  • Other Normal- and Flying-types, such as Braviary and Tauros, are rising in usage, leaving Swellow in the dust as anti-meta.
  • Unable to get past Rock- and Steel-types.
  • Tough Pokemon to get past if you didn't come prepared for it.

[SET]
name: Guts
move 1: Facade
move 2: Brave Bird
move 3: U-turn
move 4: Quick Attack
item: Toxic Orb
ability: Guts
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
  • Hit-and-Run type of Pokemon, works best as a cleaner
  • While Guts makes it strong, it doesn't quite have the raw power to OHKO everything in sight, so enemies should be weakened beforehand.
  • It can get a free switch in to activate Guts from a slow U-turn / Volt Switch, (U-turn allows Swellow to pivot out into a counter of the opposing counter, maintaining momentum for the user.) a predicted double switch, and/or when one of your Pokemon is KOed.
  • Toxic Orb - what makes Guts activate, puts Swellow on a timer though, has to switch out to avoid cumulative damage from Toxic.
  • Facade - after Toxic Orb + STAB kicks in, it reaches an amazing Base Power of 210, OHKOing Tauros and Rotom-S. Also STAB move.
  • Brave Bird - STAB move, while the recoil damage hurts, it can 2HKO Tangela and OHKO CB Mold Breaker Sawk.
  • U-turn - pretty important to a revenge killer; once it scores a KO (or can't stay in any longer) it can use its fast U-turn to switch to a partner.
  • Quick Attack - while it is usually looked down upon, it does a pretty good job in revenge killing weakened threats, and the priority is important. It also allows you to dodge Sucker Punch from virtually everyone in the tier.

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
  • Jolly nature allows Swellow to outspeed Zebstrika and Tauros, which is why Adamant isn't recommended, as Speed is much more important than additional power.
  • Roost - can be used in the final moveslot to allow Swellow to last longer on the field. Flame Orb would be used if this step is taken instead of Toxic Orb.
  • Flame Orb works somewhat better for late-game cleaning since Swellow would stay in longer in those situations and Flame Orb can be used regardless of whether Roost is used or not, but since Swellow switches in and out very often, Toxic Orb is a better often.
  • Protect - great way to guarantee activating Guts, but Quick Attack is really important in getting past Sucker Punch, making it a more desirable option.
  • Rapid Spin support - useful if Swellow wants to come in at its best without fearing SR. Torkoal is a good option as a spinner, as it can not only remove SR for Swellow but also set SR on the field for it.
  • Offensive pressure is also a good option to keep SR users at bay; Mold Breaker Sawk is a good partner to consider, as it can handle Lickilicky, Steel-, Rock-types.
  • Having entry hazard support is appreciated as well, as it allows Swellow to revenge kill weakened foes easier. Pokemon such as Golem, Scolipede, and Carracosta are good entry hazard setters.
  • There are a few bulky Pokemon that should be removed before Swellow can revenge kill, notably Misdreavus, Golurk, Piloswine, Alomomola. SubCM Serperior handles Alomomola and Golurk pretty well, and Pokemon such as Samurott and Ludicolo can deal with Piloswine and Misdreavus, both of which can also deal with Rock-type Pokemon Swellow cannot get past.
  • Steel-types in general (Klang) are also Pokemon Swellow has trouble getting past, so powerful Fire- and Fighting-types, such as Gurdurr and Charizard, can deal with them.
  • Wish support - not necessary, but it allows Swellow to last longer in a match. Lickilicky and Alomomola are both good options for such a task.
  • Electode or scarfed Electric-types also give Swellow trouble; Dragonair is a great counter to them, as it can walk their attacks and retaliate. Eelektross is also good against them, as it can provide a slow Volt Switch to bring in Swellow safely.
  • Having sweepers in general are great option, as Swellow cannot outright KO many bulky Pokemon in the tier. Gothorita can trap and set up on most physical walls that can stall out Swellow, so it's a great partner as well.

[Other Options]
  • SubRoost set; pretty useful in keeping Swellow alive.
  • Can utilize Skrappy and a CB to hit Ghost-types, but then Facade is weakened, forcing it to rely on Return as a Normal STAB move.
  • Endeavor; needs good prediction, though.
  • Toxic to hit the physically bulky Pokemon that switches into Swellow.
  • Lesser attacking options: Steel Wing, Pursuit, but it has trouble fitting them into the set.
  • Not much else, it shouldn't drift from its standard set.

[Checks and Counters]
  • SR - great way to weaken Swellow, so Pokemon who can set it successfully would be useful in defeating Swellow. (Golem, Regirock, Carracosta) Basically, any relatively strong Rock-type can easily KO Swellow, making the majority of them good checks, and they can take multiple hits from Swellow.
  • Steel-types, specifically Klang who can set up on it, are also good counters to wall Swellow's attacks.
  • Ghost-types force Swellow to use U-turn or use Brave Bird, which wears it down even more.
  • Bulky Pokemon who can take Swellow's attacks / stall it out / retaliate back (Misdreavus, Golurk, Alomomola, Lickilicky, Eelektross, etc) are good counters to it.
  • Choice Scarf users are one of the best ways to KO Swellow; Pokemon such as Primeape, Sawk, Braviary, Jynx, (can't switch into an attack and is even weakened by Quick Attack, lol) most Electric-types (Rotom-S with Scarf, Zebstika,) can aim towards Swello's frail defenses.
  • Choice Scarf Haunter - good check to Swellow since it outspeeds it and can't be touched by Quick Attack.
  • Priority - severely weaken Swellow, especially when the opposing Pokemon can take a hit (Floatzel, Samurott).
  • Virtually any strong Pokemon who can take a hit can KO Swellow, as is not bulky. (Kangaskhan)
  • Wearing it down is also a way to KO Swellow, as without recovery, SR + Toxic Orb + Brave Bird = will not take long to be defeated.
[Overview]

<p>Swellow has not changed much throughout the passing generations, as its true potential has always rested in its ability, Guts. When Guts is activated, Swellow can clean up weakened teams, and being one of the fastest Pokemon in NU makes it difficult for it to be outsped. However, Swellow is very easy to stop, as its lack of coverage and low bulk make it an easy target. Swellow's Stealth Rock weakness and its vulnerability to priority attacks also make it increasingly difficult to use; even though it packs a punch, a lot of Pokemon can tank Swellow and KO it in retaliation. Additionally, the combination of Toxic Orb's effect, Brave Bird, and its frailness allow it to be easily worn down. Also, Swellow has difficulty defeating many Rock- and Steel-types in the tier alone, so it often relies on team support to get past them.</p>

[SET]
name: Guts
move 1: Facade
move 2: Brave Bird
move 3: U-turn
move 4: Quick Attack
item: Toxic Orb
ability: Guts
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>Swellow plays the role of a hit-and-run Pokemon. It works best as a mid-game sweeper because while Guts increases Swellow's strength, it doesn't quite have the raw power to OHKO everything in sight; preferably, enemies should be weakened beforehand. To avoid being weakened, Swellow can get a free switch in to activate Guts from a slow U-turn or Volt Switch, a predicted double switch, and/or when one of its teammates is KOed. Toxic Orb is then activated, though it puts Swellow on a timer and forces it to switch out often to avoid cumulative damage.</p>

<p>Facade is Swellow's main STAB move; after Toxic Orb's effect and the STAB boost add up, it reaches an amazing Base Power of 210, OHKOing Tauros and Rotom-S. Brave Bird is also Swellow's STAB move, and while the recoil damage can be harmful, it allows Swellow to hit Ghost-type Pokemon such as Misdreavus, Haunter, and Golurk. U-turn allows Swellow to pivot into a counter of the opponent, maintaining momentum for the user. Because Swellow cannot stay in long, it will often use U-turn after every attack or two. Quick Attack is Swellow's final move; while it is usually looked down upon, it does a good job in revenge killing weakened threats, and having priority can be useful. It also allows Swellow to dodge Sucker Punch from virtually every user, as Swellow outspeeds all of them.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>A Jolly nature allows Swellow to outspeed Zebstrika and Tauros, which is why Adamant isn't recommended, as Speed is much more important than additional power in this situation. Roost can be used in the final moveslot to allow Swellow to last longer on the field, but it rarely finds an opportunity to use the move. Flame Orb should be used if this step is taken, as it works better for late-game cleaning when Swellow can stay in longer. However, as Swellow switches very often regardless of whether Roost is used, Toxic Orb is often superior to Flame Orb. This is because for the first two turns Swellow is in, it will take less damage from a Toxic Orb than a Flame Orb, and Swellow is often gone after a second turn. Protect is a great way to guarantee that Guts is activated, and it allows Swellow to scout the opponent's attacks, which is especially useful against Pokemon with a Choice item. However, Quick Attack is really important in getting past Sucker Punch, making Protect a less desirable option.</p>

<p>Rapid Spin support is useful if Swellow wants to come in without fearing Stealth Rock, but isn't required. Torkoal is a good option as a spinner, as it can not only remove entry hazards for Swellow, but also lay Stealth Rock for it. Offensive pressure is also a good option to keep Stealth Rock users at bay; Mold Breaker Sawk is a good partner to consider, as it can handle Lickilicky and Steel- and Rock-types. Having entry hazard support is appreciated as well, as it allows Swellow to revenge kill weakened foes easier. Pokemon such as Golem, Scolipede, and Carracosta are good entry hazard setters for Swellow. There are a few bulky Pokemon that should be removed before Swellow can revenge kill, notably Misdreavus, Golurk, Piloswine, and Alomomola. SubCM Serperior handles Alomomola and Golurk pretty well, while Samurott and Ludicolo can deal with Piloswine and Misdreavus. Additionally, all of the aforementioned partners can also deal with Rock-type Pokemon Swellow cannot get past.</p>

<p>Steel-types such as Klang are also Pokemon Swellow has trouble defeating, so powerful Fire- and Fighting-types, such as Charizard and Gurdurr, can deal with them. While Wish support is not necessary, it allows Swellow to recover lost HP. Lickilicky and Alomomola are both good options for such a task. Electrode or Electric-types with a Choice Scarf also give Swellow trouble; Dragonair is a great counter to them, as it can tank their attacks and retaliate. Ground-types can also deal with them as well, and they have good synergy with Swellow. Eelektross is also good against them, and it can provide a slow Volt Switch to bring Swellow in safely. Having sweepers to use alongside Swellow is a great option, as Swellow cannot outright KO many bulky Pokemon in the tier. Finally, Gothorita can trap and set up on most physical walls that can stall out Swellow, so it's a great partner as well.</p>

[Other Options]

<p>A SubRoost set is viable, as it is great at keeping Swellow alive, but it should only be used with a Flame Orb because the damage from a Toxic Orb would pile on increasingly over time, and you wouldn't be recovering HP in the long run. Swellow can utilize Scrappy and a Choice Band to hit Ghost-types, but Facade is weakened, forcing it to rely on Return, a weaker Normal-type STAB. A set with Endeavor is plausible, but it needs good prediction to be successful. Toxic can be used to hit physically bulky Pokemon that switch into Swellow. Finally, there are a few lesser attacking options, notably Steel Wing and Pursuit, but Swellow has trouble fitting them into a set. There are very few other options Swellow should take, and it shouldn't drift from its standard set.</p>

[Checks and Counters]

<p>Stealth Rock is a great way to weaken Swellow, so Pokemon that can set it on the field successfully, such as Golem, Regirock, and Carracosta, are useful in defeating Swellow. Overall, any relatively strong Rock-type can take multiple hits from Swellow and KO it, making the majority of them good counters. Steel-types, specifically Klang, can tank Swellow's attacks and set up on it, making them good counters against Swellow as well. Metang also completely walls Swellow and can even hit it hard with its priority move, Bullet Punch. Bulky Pokemon that can take Swellow's attacks, stall it out, and retaliate back are good counters against it; Misdreavus, Golurk, Alomomola, Lickilicky, and Eelektross all fit in that category.</p>

<p>Choice Scarf users are one of the best ways to KO Swellow; Primeape, Sawk, Braviary, Jynx, Rotom-S, and Zebstrika are all examples of Pokemon that can outspeed Swellow and aim towards its frail defenses. However, be aware that most of them cannot switch into any of Swellow's attacks. Choice Scarf Haunter gets a special mention; it's a good check to Swellow because it outspeeds it and can't be touched by Quick Attack. Priority, excluding Sucker Punch, can severely weaken Swellow, especially when the opposing Pokemon can take a hit. Floatzel and Samurott are examples of priority users that can KO Swellow. All in all, any strong Pokemon that can take a hit can KO Swellow, as is not bulky. Wearing it down is also a way to KO Swellow, as without recovery, Stealth Rock, Toxic Orb's poison, and Brave Bird will quickly weaken Swellow. In particular, Ghost-types force Swellow to use U-turn or Brave Bird, which would wear it down even further.</p>
 

Governess

A Beautiful Blossom Waiting to Bloom
is a Researcher Alumnusis a Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Media Contributor Alumnus
Alright! I have finished the skeleton of this; it's ready for QC checks! :)

EDIT: 20th analysis! [Then again, Murkrow shouldn't count, but I'm counting it! :)]
 

WhiteDMist

Path>Goal
is a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Team Rater Alumnusis a Forum Moderator Alumnusis a Community Contributor Alumnusis a CAP Contributor Alumnusis a Top Contributor Alumnus
[Overview]

Add in mid-late game cleaner. It only being a revenge killer is untrue since it also can sweep whole teams once Rock, Steel, and physically bulky Pokemon are gone/weakened thanks to its combination of power and Speed. Change "not much coverage" to "unable to get past Rock-and Steel-types".

[Set Comments]

Again, add it the fact that is is a great cleaner. Remove the part about Swellow trying to survive a hit to activate Toxic/Flame Orb. Add in free switches from: a slow Volt Switch/U-turn, a predicted double switch, and/or when one of your Pokemon it KOed. Mention that U-turn lets Swellow pivot out into a counter for the opposing Pokemon, maintaining momentum for its user.

[Additional Comments]

Also mention that Flame Orb works somewhat better for late game cleaning since Swellow would stay in longer in those situations (work it into the same point preferably). Rapid Spin support isn't mandatory, so remove that word. Change it to "useful" because Swellow generally only switches into a few times per game regardless. Remember to mention that Sawk handles Steel-types as well as Rock-types. Finally, while Electric-types can revenge kill Swellow, they can't really take a Facade very well. So you can remove Eelektross and say "Electrode or scarfed Electric-types" instead. And of course, a good defense against thm would be a slow, bulky Electric-type like Eelektross, who can also provide a slow Volt Switch to bring Swellow in safely. I also think you can mention the fact that Gothorita can trap and set-up on most physical walls that can stall out Swellow.

[Other Options]

Only other thing to mention would be Toxic to hit the physically bulky Pokemon that switches into Swellow.

[Checks and Counters]

Mention that Rock-types can usually take multiple hits from Swellow. Ghost-types are not the best defense against Swellow. Instead, mention that they force Swellow to U-turn out or use Brave Bird on them, wearing it down faster. Oh, and Scarf Haunter can check it since it outspeeds it and can't be touched by Quick Attack (though not necessary to put if the rest of QC disagrees).

Implement this and I'll give you the check! :)
 
swellow is a super cleaner :)
i do support adding scarf haunter as a check :P, its a nifty way to handle swellow

Mention that Swellow works great with other normal types on an offensive team. It's not hardd for Tauros + Swellow, or Zangoose + Swellow to overrun the opposition and sweep. It's a basic partnership, but they wear down each others checks fairly well (except mola but fuck mola)

implement this and WhiteDmist and this is qc approved 1/3 :)
 

Governess

A Beautiful Blossom Waiting to Bloom
is a Researcher Alumnusis a Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Media Contributor Alumnus
Thank you, Raseri and WhiteD, I have implemented both of your changes. It only needs one more check to be written! :)
 

Governess

A Beautiful Blossom Waiting to Bloom
is a Researcher Alumnusis a Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Media Contributor Alumnus
(Sorry for double posting) I have written out this analysis, so it's ready for a final look-at from QC! :)
 

Arkian

this is the state of grace
is a Contributor Alumnus
Ello Governess, I'm not QC but I have a few tips for you:

Overview
  • Mention Swellow's extreme frailty, as well as the fact that it gets worn down very quickly by Toxic Orb, BB recoil, and SR damage.
  • Mention it is a good mid-game sweeper (from your skele).
Guts
  • AC - You mention Roost, but, you don't mention why it shouldn't be used (Swellow can't find the opportunities to Roost, and it is so frail that most Pokemon will be doing more damage to it than it will be healing).
  • AC - Protect also scouts Choice-locked Pokemon, so you can U-turn out into the appropriate Pokemon (only in the case of a CB or CS user).
  • AC - Ground-types can also deal with scarfed Electrics, Swellow can switch into Grass-types that threaten Grounds
Checks and Counters
  • Most of the scarfers that you mentioned can't easily switch into Swellow, as they're either severely weakened, or outright killed, so they must come in after a kill.
Feel free to take any of these and implement them. Hope I helped ^_^

EDIT: 200th post WOOHOO!
 

Governess

A Beautiful Blossom Waiting to Bloom
is a Researcher Alumnusis a Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Media Contributor Alumnus
Sorry for double posting, but bumping for a final check; is there anything else that needs to be fixed before the final stamp is given? :o
 

ebeast

she's probably sexting nprtprt
is a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Forum Moderator Alumnusis a Community Contributor Alumnusis a Tiering Contributor Alumnusis a Top Contributor Alumnus
[Overview]
I would remove the sentence about Tauros and Braviary rising in usage, it's not really relevant to what Swellow achieves in the metagame. I'd like there to be more emphasis on how easy it is to stop Swellow. Add that its SR weakness and general weakness to priority attacks adds on the difficulty of using it. Mention how it needs support to get past Rock-type and Steel-type Pokemon. Instead of saying that it can plow through a vast majority of the tier just say that it can clean up weakened teams. To that add on that even though it hits hard a lot of Pokemon can take a hit and KO back.

[Set Comments]
When talking about Brave Bird instead of saying it 2HKOes Tangela(1v1 Tangela actually wins because it can Synthesis and stall for recoil) and Sawk (Facade OHKOes anyways) just say that Brave Bird lets Swellow hit Ghost-type Pokemon such as Missy, Haunter, Golurk; OHKOing Haunter; 2HKOing Missy after SR, and 2HKOing Golurk.

[Additional Comments]
When talking about Rapid Spin support make sure to say that it's useful, but not required.

[Checks and Counters]
When talking about Steel-types that beat Swellow add a mention of Metang. It completely walls it and can even hit it with priority Bullet Punch.

QC Approved 3/3
 
when you mention subroost in OO say that it should only be used with flame orb because the toxic recoil from toxic orb would stack too much and you wouldnt be recovering hp
 

Governess

A Beautiful Blossom Waiting to Bloom
is a Researcher Alumnusis a Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Media Contributor Alumnus
Thank you, ebeast and Annoyer, I have added all the changes. This is now ready to be looked over by the GP crew! :)
 

Redew

κακκῶ σεαυτόν
is a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Forum Moderator Alumnusis a Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Media Contributor Alumnus
i want to do this

also this is first gp in a long time so i will try my best :D

[Overview]

<p>Swellow has not changed much throughout the passing generations, as its true potential has always rested in Swellow'its ability, Guts. When Guts is activated, Swellow can clean up weakened teams, and being one of the fastest Pokemon in NU this makes it difficult to outpace. However, Swellow is very easy to stop, as its lack of coverage and low bulk make it an easy target. Swaellow's Stealth Rock weakness and its vulnerability to priority attacks also make it increasingly difficult to use; even though it packs a punch, a lot of Pokemon can tank Swellow and KO it in retaliation. Additionally, the combination of Toxic Orb's effect, Brave Bird, and its frailness allow it to be easily worn down. Also, Swellow has difficulty defeating many Rock- and Steel-types in the tier alone, so it often relies on team support to get past them.</p>

[SET]
name: Guts
move 1: Facade
move 2: Brave Bird
move 3: U-turn
move 4: Quick Attack
item: Toxic Orb
ability: Guts
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>Swellow plays the role of a hit-and-run Pokemon. It works best as a mid-game sweeper, because while Guts increases Swellow's strength, it doesn't quite have the raw power to OHKO everything in sight; preferably, enemies should be weakened beforehand. To avoid being weakened, Swellow can get a free switch in to activate Guts from a slow U-turn or Volt Switch, a predicted double switch, and/or when one of its teammates is KOed. The Toxic Orb is then activated, though it puts Swellow on a timer and forces it to switch out often to avoid cumulative damage from Toxic Orb's effect.</p>

<p>Facade is Swellow's main STAB move; after Toxic Orb's effect and the STAB boost adds up, it reaches an amazing Base Power of 210, OHKOing Tauros and Rotom-S. Brave Bird is also Swellow's STAB move, and while the recoil damage can be harmful, it allows Swellow to hit Ghost-type Pokemon such as Misdreavus, Haunter, and Golurk. U-turn allows Swellow to pivot out into a counter of the opponent, maintaining momentum for the user. Since Swellow cannot stay in long, it will often use U-turn after every attack or two. Quick Attack is Swellow's final move; while it is usually looked down upon, it does a good job in revenge killing weakened threats, and having priority can be useful. It also allows Swellow to dodge Sucker Punch from virtually every Sucker Punch user, as Swellow outspeeds all of them.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>A Jolly nature allows Swellow to outspeed Zebstrika and Tauros, which is why Adamant isn't recommended, as Speed is much more important than additional power in this situation. Roost can be used in the final moveslot to allow Swellow to last longer on the field, but it rarely finds an opportunity to use it. Flame Orb should be used if this step is taken, as it works better for late-game cleaning when Swellow can stay in longer. However, as Swellow switches very often regardless of whether Roost is used, Toxic Orb is often superior to Flame Orb. Protect is a great way to guarantee that Guts is activated, and it allows Swellow to scout the opponent's attacks, which is especially useful against Pokemon with a Choice item. However, Quick Attack is really important in getting past Sucker Punch, making Protect a less desirable option.</p>

<p>Rapid Spin support is useful if Swellow wants to come in at its best without fearing Stealth Rock, but it isn't required. Torkoal is a good option as a spinner, as it can not only remove entry hazards for Swellow, but also lay Stealth Rock for it. Offensive pressure is also a good option to keep Stealth Rock users at bay; Mold Breaker Sawk is a good partner to consider, as it can handle Lickilicky, Steel-, and Rock-types. Having entry hazard support is appreciated as well, as it allows Swellow to revenge kill weakened foes easier. Pokemon such as Golem, Scolipede, and Carracosta are good entry hazard setters for Swellow. There are a few bulky Pokemon that should be removed before Swellow can revenge kill, notably Misdreavus, Golurk, Piloswine, and Alomomola. SubCM Serperior handles Alomomola and Golurk pretty well, while Samurott and Ludicolo can deal with Piloswine and Misdreavus. Additionally, all of the aforementioned partners also can also deal with Rock-type Pokemon Swellow cannot get past.</p>

<p>Steel-types such as Klang are also Pokemon Swellow has trouble defeating, so powerful Fire- and Fighting-types, such as Gurdurr and Charizard respectively, can deal with them. While Wish support is not necessary, it allows Swellow to recover lost HP. Lickilicky and Alomomola are both good options for such a task. Electrode or sChoice Scarfed Electric-types also give Swellow trouble; Dragonair is a great counter to them, as it can tank their attacks and retaliate. Ground-types can also deal with them as well, and they have good synergy with Swellow. Eelektross is also good against them, and it can provide a slow Volt Switch to bring Swellow in safely. Having sweepers to use alongside Swellow is a great option, as Swellow cannot outright KO many bulky Pokemon in the tier. Finally, Gothorita can trap and set up on most physical walls that can stall out Swellow, so it's a great partner as well.</p>

[Other Options]

<p>A SubRoost set is viable, as it is great at keeping Swellow alive, but it should only be used with a Flame Orb because the toxic recoil from a Toxic Orb would pile on too much, and you wouldn't be recovering HP in the long run. Swellow can utilize Skrappy (not sure if this is the correct spelling and I cannot look it up either so I am going to leave it for now) and a Choice Band to hit Ghost-types, but Facade is weakened, forcing it to rely on Return, a weaker Normal-type STAB. A set with Endeavor is plausible, but it needs good prediction to be successful. Toxic can be used to hit physically bulky Pokemon that switches into Swellow. Finally, there are a few lesser attacking options, notably Steel Wing and Pursuit, but Swellow has trouble fitting them into a set.(space)There are very few other options Swellow should take, and it shouldn't drift from its standard set.</p>

[Checks and Counters]

<p>Stealth Rock is a great way to weaken Swellow, so Pokemon who can set it on the field successfully, such as Golem, Regirock, and Carracosta, would be useful in defeating Swellow. Overall, any relatively strong Rock-type can take multiple hits from Swellow and KO it, making the majority of them good counters. Steel-types, specifically Klang, can tank Swellow's attacks and set up on it, making them good counters against Swellow as well. Metang also completely walls Swellow and can even hit it hard with its priotrity move in Bullet Punch. Bulky Pokemon who can take Swellow's attacks, stall it out, and retaliate back are good counters against it; Misdreavus, Golurk, Alomomola, Lickilicky, and Eelektross all fit in that category.</p>

<p>Choice Scarf users are one of the best ways to KO Swellow; Primeape, Sawk, Braviary, Jynx, Rotom-S, and Zebstrika are all examples of Pokemon who can outspeed Swellow and aim towards its frail defenses. However, be aware that most of them cannot switch into any of Swellow's attacks. Choice Scarf Haunter gets a special mention; it's a good check to Swellow because it outspeeds it and can't be touched by Quick Attack. Priority, excluding Sucker Punch, can severely weaken Swellow, especially when the opposing Pokemon can take a hit. Floatzel and Samurott are examples of priority users who can KO Swellow. All in all, any strong Pokemon who can take a hit can KO Swellow, as is not bulky. Wearing it down is also a way to KO Swellow, as without recovery, Stealth Rock, Toxic Orb's poison, and Brave Bird will quickly weaken Swellow. In particular, Ghost-types force Swellow to use U-turn or Brave Bird, which would wear it down even further.</p>

GP 1/2
 

Governess

A Beautiful Blossom Waiting to Bloom
is a Researcher Alumnusis a Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Media Contributor Alumnus
Thank you, Redew, I implemented the check. (Checked for you; it is Scrappy) It only needs one more to be finished! :)
 

GatoDelFuego

The Antimonymph of the Internet
is a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Social Media Contributor Alumnusis a Community Leader Alumnusis a Smogon Discord Contributor Alumnusis a Top Contributor Alumnusis a Top Smogon Media Contributor Alumnus
REMOVE CHANGE COMMENTS

[Overview]

<p>Swellow has not changed much throughout the passing generations, as its true potential has always rested in its ability, Guts. When Guts is activated, Swellow can clean up weakened teams, and being one of the fastest Pokemon in NU makes it difficult for it to be outsped. However, Swellow is very easy to stop, as its lack of coverage and low bulk make it an easy target. Swellow's Stealth Rock weakness and its vulnerability to priority attacks also make it increasingly difficult to use; even though it packs a punch, a lot of Pokemon can tank Swellow and KO it in retaliation. Additionally, the combination of Toxic Orb's effect, Brave Bird, and its frailness allow it to be easily worn down. Also, Swellow has difficulty defeating many Rock- and Steel-types in the tier alone, so it often relies on team support to get past them.</p>

[SET]
name: Guts
move 1: Facade
move 2: Brave Bird
move 3: U-turn
move 4: Quick Attack
item: Toxic Orb
ability: Guts
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>Swellow plays the role of a hit-and-run Pokemon. It works best as a mid-game sweeper because while Guts increases Swellow's strength, it doesn't quite have the raw power to OHKO everything in sight; preferably, enemies should be weakened beforehand. To avoid being weakened, Swellow can get a free switch in to activate Guts from a slow U-turn or Volt Switch, a predicted double switch, and/or when one of its teammates is KOed. Toxic Orb is then activated, though it puts Swellow on a timer and forces it to switch out often to avoid cumulative damage.</p>

<p>Facade is Swellow's main STAB move; after Toxic Orb's effect and the STAB boost adds up, it reaches an amazing Base Power of 210, OHKOing Tauros and Rotom-S. Brave Bird is also Swellow's STAB move, and while the recoil damage can be harmful, it allows Swellow to hit Ghost-type Pokemon such as Misdreavus, Haunter, and Golurk. U-turn allows Swellow to pivot out into a counter of the opponent, maintaining momentum for the user. Since Because Swellow cannot stay in long, it will often use U-turn after every attack or two. Quick Attack is Swellow's final move; while it is usually looked down upon, it does a good job in revenge killing weakened threats, and having priority can be useful. It also allows Swellow to dodge Sucker Punch from virtually every Sucker Punch user, as Swellow outspeeds all of them.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>A Jolly nature allows Swellow to outspeed Zebstrika and Tauros, which is why Adamant isn't recommended, as Speed is much more important than additional power in this situation. Roost can be used in the final moveslot to allow Swellow to last longer on the field, but it rarely finds an opportunity to use the move it. Flame Orb should be used if this step is taken, as it works better for late-game cleaning when Swellow can stay in longer. However, as Swellow switches very often regardless of whether Roost is used, Toxic Orb is often superior to Flame Orb. This is because for the first two turns Swellow is in, it will take less damage from a Toxic Orb than a Flame Orb, and Swellow is often gone after a second turn. I feel this needed a bit of explaining Protect is a great way to guarantee that Guts is activated, and it allows Swellow to scout the opponent's attacks, which is especially useful against Pokemon with a Choice item. However, Quick Attack is really important in getting past Sucker Punch, making Protect a less desirable option.</p>

<p>Rapid Spin support is useful if Swellow wants to come in at its best without fearing Stealth Rock, but it isn't required. Torkoal is a good option as a spinner, as it can not only remove entry hazards for Swellow, but also lay Stealth Rock for it. Offensive pressure is also a good option to keep Stealth Rock users at bay; Mold Breaker Sawk is a good partner to consider, as it can handle Lickilicky,(RC) and Steel-, (RC) and Rock-types. Having entry hazard support is appreciated as well, as it allows Swellow to revenge kill weakened foes easier. Pokemon such as Golem, Scolipede, and Carracosta are good entry hazard setters for Swellow. There are a few bulky Pokemon that should be removed before Swellow can revenge kill, notably Misdreavus, Golurk, Piloswine, and Alomomola. SubCM Serperior handles Alomomola and Golurk pretty well, while Samurott and Ludicolo can deal with Piloswine and Misdreavus. Additionally, all of the aforementioned partners can also deal with Rock-type Pokemon Swellow cannot get past.</p>

<p>Steel-types such as Klang are also Pokemon Swellow has trouble defeating, so powerful Fire- and Fighting-types, such as Charizard and Gurdurr, can deal with them. While Wish support is not necessary, it allows Swellow to recover lost HP. Lickilicky and Alomomola are both good options for such a task. Electrode or Electric-types with a Choice Scarf also give Swellow trouble; Dragonair is a great counter to them, as it can tank their attacks and retaliate. Ground-types can also deal with them as well, and they have good synergy with Swellow. Eelektross is also good against them, and it can provide a slow Volt Switch to bring Swellow in safely. Having sweepers to use alongside Swellow is a great option, as Swellow cannot outright KO many bulky Pokemon in the tier. Finally, Gothorita can trap and set up on most physical walls that can stall out Swellow, so it's a great partner as well.</p>

[Other Options]

<p>A SubRoost set is viable, as it is great at keeping Swellow alive, but it should only be used with a Flame Orb because the toxic recoil damage from a Toxic Orb would pile on increasingly over time too much, and you wouldn't be recovering HP in the long run. Swellow can utilize Scrappy and a Choice Band to hit Ghost-types, but Facade is weakened, forcing it to rely on Return, a weaker Normal-type STAB. A set with Endeavor is plausible, but it needs good prediction to be successful. Toxic can be used to hit physically bulky Pokemon that switch into Swellow. Finally, there are a few lesser attacking options, notably Steel Wing and Pursuit, but Swellow has trouble fitting them into a set. There are very few other options Swellow should take, and it shouldn't drift from its standard set.</p>

[Checks and Counters]

<p>Stealth Rock is a great way to weaken Swellow, so Pokemon who that can set it on the field successfully, such as Golem, Regirock, and Carracosta, would be are useful in defeating Swellow. Overall, any relatively strong Rock-type can take multiple hits from Swellow and KO it, making the majority of them good counters. Steel-types, specifically Klang, can tank Swellow's attacks and set up on it, making them good counters against Swellow as well. Metang also completely walls Swellow and can even hit it hard with its priority move, (AC) in Bullet Punch. Bulky Pokemon who that can take Swellow's attacks, stall it out, and retaliate back are good counters against it; Misdreavus, Golurk, Alomomola, Lickilicky, and Eelektross all fit in that category.</p>

<p>Choice Scarf users are one of the best ways to KO Swellow; Primeape, Sawk, Braviary, Jynx, Rotom-S, and Zebstrika are all examples of Pokemon who that can outspeed Swellow and aim towards its frail defenses. However, be aware that most of them cannot switch into any of Swellow's attacks. Choice Scarf Haunter gets a special mention; it's a good check to Swellow because it outspeeds it and can't be touched by Quick Attack. Priority, excluding Sucker Punch, can severely weaken Swellow, especially when the opposing Pokemon can take a hit. Floatzel and Samurott are examples of priority users who that can KO Swellow. All in all, any strong Pokemon who that can take a hit can KO Swellow, as is not bulky. Wearing it down is also a way to KO Swellow, as without recovery, Stealth Rock, Toxic Orb's poison, and Brave Bird will quickly weaken Swellow. In particular, Ghost-types force Swellow to use U-turn or Brave Bird, which would wear it down even further.</p>

2/2 redew you got this
 

Users Who Are Viewing This Thread (Users: 1, Guests: 0)

Top