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Swoobat (GP 2/2)
- Thread starter Oglemi
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[Overview]
<p> If one were to take only a single look at Swoobat, words such as “unimpressive” and “outclassed” may pop into mind. And indeed, Swoobat does not seem to scream spectacular, as it appears to be one of many Psychic-types in the NU tier. Even its name and design scream “harmless”. Indeed, as far as stats go, Swoobat isn’t particularly blessed, with its only eye-catching stat being a spectacular base 114 Speed stat, with its second highest stat being a mediocre base 77 Special Attack. So why use it when Pokemon such as Gardevoir and Musharna, fellow NuU Psychic-types, exist with better bulk and attacking stats? Well, the answer is Simple. </p>
<p> Word play aside, Swoobat was gifted with the ability Simple with the introduction ofBlack 2 and White 2 BW2. This ability combined with Calm Mind allows Swoobat to achieve +2 in both Special Attack and Special Defense with a single boost, elevating its mediocre special stats to threatening levels, effectively acting as a Nasty Plot and amnesia packed into one. The good news doesn’t end there, as Swoobat also has access to Stored Power, which combined with Calm Mind and Simple changes it from a measly 20 base power move into that of 100 base power, with two Calm Minds making it as powerful as a V-Create. This combined with the STAB bonus and Swoobat’s boosted Special Attack makes it a truly threatening Pokemon. Swoobat is also immune to both Spikes and Toxic Spikes, and quad resists common Fighting-type moves in the tier, allowing it to become a truly devastating sweeper.</p>
<p>However, not all is well for our flying friend. Swoobat has horrendous bulk on both sides of the spectrum, which can make it difficult for it to find a time to set up a Calm Mind. Swoobat is also weak to Stealth Rock, which limits its ability to switch in severely. Finally, Psychic-typing leaves Swoobat vulnerable to the likes of Skuntank and Absol, as both have the ability to cut its sweep short with STAB super effective Sucker Punch, or to simply Pursuit trap Swoobat. Despite its flaws, however, if properly supported, Swoobat can sweep through many unprepared teams</p>
[SET]
name: Calm Mind
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Psychic / Stored Power
move 3: Hidden Power Ground
move 4: Substitute / Air Slash
item: Life Orb / Leftovers
ability: Simple
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>What was once considered a mediocre and outclassed sweeper in NU has ascended to the ranks of a potential top tier threat. Simple allows Swoobat to be granted a Nasty Plot plus an Amnesia all in one Calm Mind boost. Thanks to Swoobat’s typing, it can come in on many choice locked Psychic-types, outspeed them, and set up a Calm Mind while taking little damage. Psychic is the main STAB choice for Swoobat, and though its base power is not affected by the amount of boosts Swoobat achieves, it has the benefit of letting it hit hard right off the bat if need be, something Stored Power cannot achieve. However, Stored Power does have its merits, as if Swoobat manages to accumulate two Calm Minds it can OHKO the majority of the tier with Stored power alone. Hidden Power Ground allows Swoobat to hit the most common Steels of the tier, Probopass and Bastiodon, for super effective damage, while also letting it score a super effective hit on its nemesis Skuntank. The final moveslot for the set is a tricky choice. Substitute is the primary slash as it lets Swoobat bypass Sucker Punch and score a free attack, while also letting it score a free boost on a predicted switch. This also means Swoobat can nullify Imposter Ditto from coming in and stealing your boosts. If this is the case, the Leftovers is the preferred item, as Substitute plus Life Orb recoil means Swoobat will fall before it can do much damage. However, Air Slash functions as a secondary STAB option that can be used with Life Orb, and can be used to hit bulky Grass-types such as Tangela.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>TheevEVs given are straightforward, as they allow Swoobat to reach maximum Speed to allow for an easier easy setup while also letting it hit as hard as it can possible. It should be noted that although Swoobat resists a handful of moves, it should only really come in after a Volt Switch / U-Turn or once another teammate has been KO’d, as its measly bulk means it can’t take many hits, even if they are resisted. In terms of other moves, Swoobat has many options. Taunt can be used in order to shut down the opposition from either phazing or setting up, though it faces severe competition for a slot and Swoobat does not have enough bulk to pull it off. Roost is another alternative to keep Swoobat’s health up, though again, it lacks the bulk to pull it off. Psyshock is an alternative STAB that can hit special walls harder, though Stored Power is usually the better option, as it hits quite hard after a few boosts. With the introduction of Black 2 and White 2 BW2, move tutors granted Swoobat many new moves, most notably Heat Wave, Giga Drain, and Signal Beam. Heat Wave can be used to hit Steels, although it is outclassed by Hidden Power Ground as it hits the most common Steels, Probopass and Bastiodon, harder while also slamming Skuntank. Giga Drain can be used to hit bulky Waters and heal some health, though it has little use outside of that. Finally, Signal Beam can score super effective hits on Psychic and Dark-types who resist or are immune to your STAB, respectively.</p>
<p>As far as items go, Swoobat should generally stick to Leftovers or Life Orb to heal Substitute damage or hit harder, respectively. However, a Salac Berry is an interesting option, as with Swoobat’s bad bulk and Substitutes, it can easily reach activation range. Not only does this allow Swoobat to outspeed all unboosted Pokemon in the tier, but also allows an extra 40 base power to be added to Stored Power. Swoobat can also switch to a Modest nature if using the berry to allow more power.</p>
<p>Though Swoobat can easily rip through teams if it sets up, it needs the proper support to do so. The most obvious teammate for Swoobat is a Rapid Spinner, as Swoobat suffers from a crippling Stealth Rock weakness. Armaldo is the best choice for the role, as it can beat opposing Psychics with its Bug STAB and set up hazards of its own. However, one must be wary, as both Swoobat and Armaldo share a Rock-type weakness. Speaking of hazards, Garbador pairsgreat well with Swoobat, as it can set up Spikes and Toxic Spikes to aid in the bat’s sweep, who in turn can switch in on any Psychic or Ground-type attack aimed at the trash bag. Sawk is another nice Pokemon to pair with Swoobat, as with a Choice Scarf it outspeeds and punishes any unboosted Dark-type or special wall that can take Swoobat, while the bat can come in on Psychic attacks targeted at Sawk. Due to its terrible bulk, Swoobat appreciates a Dual Screener that can help to cushion blows aimed at Swoobat. Audino is a great filler of this role, as it can not only set up screens, but also pass of Wishes and cure any status ailments acquired by Swoobat, who in turn quad resists Fighting attacks aimed at Audino.</p>
[Other Options]
<p>Though Swoobat is best suited as a sweeper, it has a fantastic support movepool at its disposal. However, it lacks any sort of bulk it can use to take advantage of it. Swoobat also has a large special movepool consisting of moves such as Shadow Ball, Giga Drain, Heat Wave, and Signal Beam to name a few. However, these moves are generally outclassed as they do not hit anything specific. Charge Beam is an interesting option, as with Simple Swoobat can achieve +2 if the secondary effect is realized, however, the boost is not guaranteed. Swoobat can use its ability Klutz in conjunction with Trick to pass of harmful items such as Sticky Barb and Iron Ball, though Simple is the main reason Swoobat should be used. Swoobat is the fastest Dual Screener in the tier, and can use this speed to support the team. However, once again, its bulk means it will usually only get up one screen. Finally, a bulkier version of the Calm Mind set can be utilized, consisting of the moves Substitute / Calm Mind / Stored Power / Roost, though it fails to hit hard off the bat if need be, and Swoobat appreciates the coverage provided by Hidden Power Ground.</p>
[Checks and Counters]
<p>Countering Swoobat can be difficult, as once it has a few boosts it can rip entire teams to shreds, especially if it has a substitute up. Generally, anything that can outspeed Swoobat can exploit its lackluster bulk and KO it. Swak is a good choice, as it can come in on Swoobats not protected by a Substitute and KO it with either Stone Edgeand or Ice Punch. Cinccino is a great check to this set, as it does not only outspeed it, but can also bypass its Substitutes and KO it with a super effective Rock Blast. Bastiodon can come in and phase it out with Roar if Sturdy is in tact, though Hidden Power Ground will knock it down to 1 HP after a boost. Finally, Ffor variants that run Air Slash instead of Substitute, Skuntank or Absol can easily come in and cut its sweep short with a Sucker Punch or simply Pursuit trap it.</p>
<p>In terms of checks, Skuntank is the best option, as it is immune to Swoobat’s Psychic STAB, and can come in on variants that lack Substitute and either Sucker Punch or Pursuit on the switch. Absol can do the samething, and though many variants don’t carry Pursuit, it can either Sucker Punch or Swords Dance on the switch. Bastiodon can come in and take one Hidden Power Ground at full health thanks to Sturdy and phaze out Swoobat with Roar, while also having the ability to set up Stealth Rock to limit Swoobat’s switch-ins.</p>
<p>A good rule of thumb is that anything that can outspeed Swoobat can usually check it. Choice Scarfed Sawk can come in on Swoobat after a teammate has been KO’d and take out Swoobat with Ice Punch or Stone Edge. Both Rotom-S and Rotom-F can hit Swoobat with STAB super effective Thunderbolt (or a STAB super effective, yet shaky, Blizzard in the case of the latter), though both must be cautious if Swoobat has acquired a few Calm Mind boosts. Cinccino can come in under similar circumstances and KO Swoobat with Rock Blast, which can bypass its Substitute. Golem is another Pokemon that can accomplish this thanks to Sturdy, as it can take a hit and KO with either Rock Blast or Sucker Punchoif Swoobat is not behind a Substitute. If without a Substitute, Choice Scarfed Imposter Ditto can come in on Swoobat, steal its boosts, and KO it if it has been weakened. Cacturne is another solid check, as it can take all Swoobat variants that lack Air Slash, as it is immune to its Psychic STAB and resists Hidden Power Ground. The cactus can then proceed to weither Sucker Punch or set up a Swords Dance on the switch. Finally, Timid Life Orb Gardevoir can take one Air Slash at +2 and potentially KO Swoobat with Thunderbolt after Stealth Rock damage.</p>
<p> If one were to take only a single look at Swoobat, words such as “unimpressive” and “outclassed” may pop into mind. And indeed, Swoobat does not seem to scream spectacular, as it appears to be one of many Psychic-types in the NU tier. Even its name and design scream “harmless”. Indeed, as far as stats go, Swoobat isn’t particularly blessed, with its only eye-catching stat being a spectacular base 114 Speed stat, with its second highest stat being a mediocre base 77 Special Attack. So why use it when Pokemon such as Gardevoir and Musharna, fellow N
<p> Word play aside, Swoobat was gifted with the ability Simple with the introduction of
<p>However, not all is well for our flying friend. Swoobat has horrendous bulk on both sides of the spectrum, which can make it difficult for it to find a time to set up a Calm Mind. Swoobat is also weak to Stealth Rock, which limits its ability to switch in severely. Finally, Psychic-typing leaves Swoobat vulnerable to the likes of Skuntank and Absol, as both have the ability to cut its sweep short with STAB super effective Sucker Punch, or to simply Pursuit trap Swoobat. Despite its flaws, however, if properly supported, Swoobat can sweep through many unprepared teams</p>
[SET]
name: Calm Mind
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Psychic / Stored Power
move 3: Hidden Power Ground
move 4: Substitute / Air Slash
item: Life Orb / Leftovers
ability: Simple
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>What was once considered a mediocre and outclassed sweeper in NU has ascended to the ranks of a potential top tier threat. Simple allows Swoobat to be granted a Nasty Plot plus an Amnesia all in one Calm Mind boost. Thanks to Swoobat’s typing, it can come in on many choice locked Psychic-types, outspeed them, and set up a Calm Mind while taking little damage. Psychic is the main STAB choice for Swoobat, and though its base power is not affected by the amount of boosts Swoobat achieves, it has the benefit of letting it hit hard right off the bat if need be, something Stored Power cannot achieve. However, Stored Power does have its merits, as if Swoobat manages to accumulate two Calm Minds it can OHKO the majority of the tier with Stored power alone. Hidden Power Ground allows Swoobat to hit the most common Steels of the tier, Probopass and Bastiodon, for super effective damage, while also letting it score a super effective hit on its nemesis Skuntank. The final moveslot for the set is a tricky choice. Substitute is the primary slash as it lets Swoobat bypass Sucker Punch and score a free attack, while also letting it score a free boost on a predicted switch. This also means Swoobat can nullify Imposter Ditto from coming in and stealing your boosts. If this is the case, the Leftovers is the preferred item, as Substitute plus Life Orb recoil means Swoobat will fall before it can do much damage. However, Air Slash functions as a secondary STAB option that can be used with Life Orb, and can be used to hit bulky Grass-types such as Tangela.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The
<p>As far as items go, Swoobat should generally stick to Leftovers or Life Orb to heal Substitute damage or hit harder, respectively. However, a Salac Berry is an interesting option, as with Swoobat’s bad bulk and Substitutes, it can easily reach activation range. Not only does this allow Swoobat to outspeed all unboosted Pokemon in the tier, but also allows an extra 40 base power to be added to Stored Power. Swoobat can also switch to a Modest nature if using the berry to allow more power.</p>
<p>Though Swoobat can easily rip through teams if it sets up, it needs the proper support to do so. The most obvious teammate for Swoobat is a Rapid Spinner, as Swoobat suffers from a crippling Stealth Rock weakness. Armaldo is the best choice for the role, as it can beat opposing Psychics with its Bug STAB and set up hazards of its own. However, one must be wary, as both Swoobat and Armaldo share a Rock-type weakness. Speaking of hazards, Garbador pairs
[Other Options]
<p>Though Swoobat is best suited as a sweeper, it has a fantastic support movepool at its disposal. However, it lacks any sort of bulk
[Checks and Counters]
<p>Countering Swoobat can be difficult, as once it has a few boosts it can rip entire teams to shreds, especially if it has a substitute up. Generally, anything that can outspeed Swoobat can exploit its lackluster bulk and KO it. Swak is a good choice, as it can come in on Swoobats not protected by a Substitute and KO it with either Stone Edge
<p>In terms of checks, Skuntank is the best option, as it is immune to Swoobat’s Psychic STAB, and can come in on variants that lack Substitute and either Sucker Punch or Pursuit on the switch. Absol can do the same
<p>A good rule of thumb is that anything that can outspeed Swoobat can usually check it. Choice Scarfed Sawk can come in on Swoobat after a teammate has been KO’d and take out Swoobat with Ice Punch or Stone Edge. Both Rotom-S and Rotom-F can hit Swoobat with STAB super effective Thunderbolt (or a STAB super effective, yet shaky, Blizzard in the case of the latter), though both must be cautious if Swoobat has acquired a few Calm Mind boosts. Cinccino can come in under similar circumstances and KO Swoobat with Rock Blast, which can bypass its Substitute. Golem is another Pokemon that can accomplish this thanks to Sturdy, as it can take a hit and KO with either Rock Blast or Sucker Punch
Nice job writing this!
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[Overview]
<p> If one were to take only a single look at Swoobat, words such as “unimpressive” and “outclassed” might pop into mind. And indeed, Swoobat does not seem spectacular, as it appears to be just one of many Psychic-types in the NU tier. Even its name and design scream “harmless”. Indeed, as far as stats go, Swoobat isn’t particularly blessed; while its spectacular base 114 Speed is certainly eye-catching, its second highest stat is a mediocre base 77 Special Attack. So why use it when there are Pokemon such as Gardevoir and Musharna with better bulk and attacking stats? Well, the answer is Simple. </p>
<p> Word play aside, Swoobat was gifted with the ability Simple with the introduction of BW2. This ability, combined with Calm Mind, allows Swoobat to achieve +2 in both Special Attack and Special Defense with a single boost, elevating its mediocre special stats to threatening levels. The good news doesn’t end there, as Swoobat also has access to Stored Power, which after a Simple Calm Mind changes from a measly 20 base power to 100 base power, with two Calm Minds making it as powerful as a V-Create. This, in combination with the STAB bonus and Swoobat’s boosted Special Attack makes it a truly threatening Pokemon. Swoobat is also immune to both Spikes and Toxic Spikes, and quad resists the common Fighting-type moves, allowing it to become a truly devastating sweeper.</p>
<p>However, not all is well for our flying friend. Swoobat has horrendous bulk, which can make it difficult for it to find time to set up a Calm Mind. Swoobat is also weak to Stealth Rock, which limits its switching severely. Finally, its Psychic-typing leaves Swoobat vulnerable to the likes of Skuntank and Absol, as both have the ability to cut its sweep short with a STAB, super effective Sucker Punch, or to simply Pursuit trap it. Despite its flaws, however, if properly supported, Swoobat can sweep through many unprepared teams</p>
[SET]
name: Calm Mind
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Psychic / Stored Power
move 3: Hidden Power Ground
move 4: Substitute / Air Slash
item: Life Orb / Leftovers
ability: Simple
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>What was once considered a mediocre and outclassed sweeper in NU has ascended to the ranks of a potential top tier threat. Simple allows Swoobat to be granted a Nasty Plot and an Amnesia all in one Calm Mind boost. Thanks to Swoobat’s typing, it can come in on many choice-locked Psychic-types, outspeed them, and set up a Calm Mind while taking little damage. Psychic is the main STAB choice for Swoobat, and though its base power is not affected by the amount of boosts Swoobat achieves, it lets it hit hard right off the bat, something Stored Power cannot achieve. However, Stored Power does have its merits, as if Swoobat manages to accumulate two Calm Minds it can OHKO the majority of the tier with Stored Power alone. Hidden Power Ground allows Swoobat to hit the most common Steels in the tier, Probopass and Bastiodon, for super effective damage, while also letting it score a super effective hit on its nemesis Skuntank. The final moveslot for the set is a tricky choice. Substitute is the primary slash as it lets Swoobat bypass Sucker Punch and score a free attack, while also letting it score a free boost on a predicted switch. This also means Swoobat can prevent Imposter Ditto from coming in and stealing your boosts. If this is the case, then Leftovers is the preferred item, as Substitute and Life Orb recoil means Swoobat will fall before it can do much damage. However, Air Slash functions as a secondary STAB option that can be used with Life Orb, and can be used to hit bulky Grass-types such as Tangela.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The EVs given are straightforward, as they allow Swoobat to reach maximum Speed for an easier setup while also letting it hit as hard as possible. It should be noted that although Swoobat resists a handful of moves, it should only really come in after a Volt Switch / U-Turn or once another teammate has been KOed, as its measly bulk means it can’t take many hits, even if they are resisted. In terms of other moves, Swoobat has many options. Taunt can be used in order to shut down the opposition from either phazing or setting up, though it faces severe competition for a slot and Swoobat does not have enough bulk to pull it off. Roost is another alternative to keep Swoobat’s health up, though again, it lacks the bulk to pull it off. Psyshock is an alternative STAB that can hit special walls harder, though Stored Power is usually the better option, as it hits quite hard after a few boosts. With the introduction of BW2, move tutors granted Swoobat many new moves, notably Heat Wave, Giga Drain, and Signal Beam. Heat Wave can be used to hit Steel-types, though it is outclassed by Hidden Power Ground which hits the most common Steel-types harder while also slamming Skuntank. Giga Drain can be used to hit bulky Waters and heal some health, though it has little use outside of that. Finally, Signal Beam can score super effective hits on Psychic and Dark-types who resist or are immune to your STAB respectively.</p>
<p>As far as items go, Swoobat should generally stick to Leftovers to heal Substitute damage or Life Orb to hit harder. However, a Salac Berry is an interesting option, as with Swoobat’s bad bulk and Substitutes, it can easily reach activation range. Not only does this allow Swoobat to outspeed all unboosted Pokemon in the tier, but also allows an extra 40 base power to be added to Stored Power. Swoobat can also switch to a Modest nature if using the berry for more power.</p>
<p>Though Swoobat can easily rip through teams if it sets up, it needs the proper support to do so. The most obvious teammate for Swoobat is a Rapid Spinner, as Swoobat suffers from a crippling Stealth Rock weakness. Armaldo is the best choice for the role, as it can beat opposing Psychics with its Bug-type STAB and set up hazards of its own. However, one must be wary, as both Swoobat and Armaldo share a Rock-type weakness. Speaking of hazards, Garbodor pairs well with Swoobat, as it can set up Spikes and Toxic Spikes to aid in the bat’s sweep, who in turn can switch in on any Psychic or Ground-type attack aimed at the trash bag. Sawk is another Pokemon to pair nicely with Swoobat, as with a Choice Scarf it outspeeds and punishes any unboosted Dark-type or special wall that can take on Swoobat, while the bat can come in on Psychic attacks targeted at Sawk. Due to its terrible bulk, Swoobat appreciates a Dual Screener that can help cushion blows aimed at Swoobat. Audino is great in this role, as it can not only set up screens, but also pass Wishes and cure any status ailments acquired by Swoobat, who in turn quad resists the Fighting-type attacks aimed at Audino.</p>
[Other Options]
<p>Though Swoobat is best suited as a sweeper, it has a fantastic support movepool at its disposal. However, it lacks any sort of bulk to take advantage of it. Swoobat also has a large special movepool consisting of moves such as Shadow Ball, Giga Drain, Heat Wave, and Signal Beam; however, these moves are generally outclassed as they do not hit anything specific. Charge Beam is an interesting option, as with Simple Swoobat can achieve +2 if it gains the Special Attack boost; however, the boost is not guaranteed. Swoobat can use its ability Klutz in conjunction with Trick to pass off harmful items such as Sticky Barb and Iron Ball, though Simple is the main reason Swoobat should be used. Swoobat is the fastest Dual Screener in the tier, and can use this speed to support the team. However, once again, its bulk means it will usually only get up one screen. Finally, a bulkier version of the Calm Mind set can be utilized, consisting of the moves Substitute / Calm Mind / Stored Power / Roost, though it fails to hit hard off the bat if need be, and Swoobat appreciates the coverage provided by Hidden Power Ground.</p>
[Checks and Counters]
<p>Countering Swoobat can be difficult, as once it has a few boosts it can rip entire teams to shreds, especially if it has a Substitute up. Generally, anything that can outspeed Swoobat can exploit its lackluster bulk and KO it. Sawk is a good choice, as it can come in on Swoobat not protected by a Substitute and KO it with either Stone Edge and Ice Punch. Cinccino is a great check to this set, as it does not only outspeed it, but can also bypass its Substitutes and KO it with a super effective Rock Blast. Bastiodon can come in and phase it out with Roar if Sturdy is intact, though Hidden Power Ground will knock it down to 1 HP after a boost. Finally, for variants that run Air Slash instead of Substitute, Skuntank or Absol can easily come in and cut its sweep short with a Sucker Punch or simply Pursuit trap it.</p>
<p>A good rule of thumb is that anything that can outspeed Swoobat can usually check it. Both Rotom-S and Rotom-F can hit Swoobat with a STAB, super effective Thunderbolt (or a STAB, super effective, yet shaky Blizzard in the case of the latter), though both must be cautious if Swoobat has acquired a few Calm Mind boosts. Golem is another check thanks to Sturdy, as it can take a hit and KO with either Rock Blast or Sucker Punch if Swoobat is not behind a Substitute. If without a Substitute, Choice Scarf Imposter Ditto can come in on Swoobat, steal its boosts, and KO it if it has been weakened. Cacturne is another solid check, as it can take the attacks of all Swoobat that lack Air Slash, as it is immune to its Psychic STAB and resists Hidden Power Ground. The cactus can then proceed to kill it with Sucker Punch or set up a Swords Dance on the switch. Finally, Timid Life Orb Gardevoir can take one Air Slash at +2 and potentially KO Swoobat with Thunderbolt after Stealth Rock damage.</p>
<p> If one were to take only a single look at Swoobat, words such as “unimpressive” and “outclassed” might pop into mind. And indeed, Swoobat does not seem spectacular, as it appears to be just one of many Psychic-types in the NU tier. Even its name and design scream “harmless”. Indeed, as far as stats go, Swoobat isn’t particularly blessed; while its spectacular base 114 Speed is certainly eye-catching, its second highest stat is a mediocre base 77 Special Attack. So why use it when there are Pokemon such as Gardevoir and Musharna with better bulk and attacking stats? Well, the answer is Simple. </p>
<p> Word play aside, Swoobat was gifted with the ability Simple with the introduction of BW2. This ability, combined with Calm Mind, allows Swoobat to achieve +2 in both Special Attack and Special Defense with a single boost, elevating its mediocre special stats to threatening levels. The good news doesn’t end there, as Swoobat also has access to Stored Power, which after a Simple Calm Mind changes from a measly 20 base power to 100 base power, with two Calm Minds making it as powerful as a V-Create. This, in combination with the STAB bonus and Swoobat’s boosted Special Attack makes it a truly threatening Pokemon. Swoobat is also immune to both Spikes and Toxic Spikes, and quad resists the common Fighting-type moves, allowing it to become a truly devastating sweeper.</p>
<p>However, not all is well for our flying friend. Swoobat has horrendous bulk, which can make it difficult for it to find time to set up a Calm Mind. Swoobat is also weak to Stealth Rock, which limits its switching severely. Finally, its Psychic-typing leaves Swoobat vulnerable to the likes of Skuntank and Absol, as both have the ability to cut its sweep short with a STAB, super effective Sucker Punch, or to simply Pursuit trap it. Despite its flaws, however, if properly supported, Swoobat can sweep through many unprepared teams</p>
[SET]
name: Calm Mind
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Psychic / Stored Power
move 3: Hidden Power Ground
move 4: Substitute / Air Slash
item: Life Orb / Leftovers
ability: Simple
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>What was once considered a mediocre and outclassed sweeper in NU has ascended to the ranks of a potential top tier threat. Simple allows Swoobat to be granted a Nasty Plot and an Amnesia all in one Calm Mind boost. Thanks to Swoobat’s typing, it can come in on many choice-locked Psychic-types, outspeed them, and set up a Calm Mind while taking little damage. Psychic is the main STAB choice for Swoobat, and though its base power is not affected by the amount of boosts Swoobat achieves, it lets it hit hard right off the bat, something Stored Power cannot achieve. However, Stored Power does have its merits, as if Swoobat manages to accumulate two Calm Minds it can OHKO the majority of the tier with Stored Power alone. Hidden Power Ground allows Swoobat to hit the most common Steels in the tier, Probopass and Bastiodon, for super effective damage, while also letting it score a super effective hit on its nemesis Skuntank. The final moveslot for the set is a tricky choice. Substitute is the primary slash as it lets Swoobat bypass Sucker Punch and score a free attack, while also letting it score a free boost on a predicted switch. This also means Swoobat can prevent Imposter Ditto from coming in and stealing your boosts. If this is the case, then Leftovers is the preferred item, as Substitute and Life Orb recoil means Swoobat will fall before it can do much damage. However, Air Slash functions as a secondary STAB option that can be used with Life Orb, and can be used to hit bulky Grass-types such as Tangela.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The EVs given are straightforward, as they allow Swoobat to reach maximum Speed for an easier setup while also letting it hit as hard as possible. It should be noted that although Swoobat resists a handful of moves, it should only really come in after a Volt Switch / U-Turn or once another teammate has been KOed, as its measly bulk means it can’t take many hits, even if they are resisted. In terms of other moves, Swoobat has many options. Taunt can be used in order to shut down the opposition from either phazing or setting up, though it faces severe competition for a slot and Swoobat does not have enough bulk to pull it off. Roost is another alternative to keep Swoobat’s health up, though again, it lacks the bulk to pull it off. Psyshock is an alternative STAB that can hit special walls harder, though Stored Power is usually the better option, as it hits quite hard after a few boosts. With the introduction of BW2, move tutors granted Swoobat many new moves, notably Heat Wave, Giga Drain, and Signal Beam. Heat Wave can be used to hit Steel-types, though it is outclassed by Hidden Power Ground which hits the most common Steel-types harder while also slamming Skuntank. Giga Drain can be used to hit bulky Waters and heal some health, though it has little use outside of that. Finally, Signal Beam can score super effective hits on Psychic and Dark-types who resist or are immune to your STAB respectively.</p>
<p>As far as items go, Swoobat should generally stick to Leftovers to heal Substitute damage or Life Orb to hit harder. However, a Salac Berry is an interesting option, as with Swoobat’s bad bulk and Substitutes, it can easily reach activation range. Not only does this allow Swoobat to outspeed all unboosted Pokemon in the tier, but also allows an extra 40 base power to be added to Stored Power. Swoobat can also switch to a Modest nature if using the berry for more power.</p>
<p>Though Swoobat can easily rip through teams if it sets up, it needs the proper support to do so. The most obvious teammate for Swoobat is a Rapid Spinner, as Swoobat suffers from a crippling Stealth Rock weakness. Armaldo is the best choice for the role, as it can beat opposing Psychics with its Bug-type STAB and set up hazards of its own. However, one must be wary, as both Swoobat and Armaldo share a Rock-type weakness. Speaking of hazards, Garbodor pairs well with Swoobat, as it can set up Spikes and Toxic Spikes to aid in the bat’s sweep, who in turn can switch in on any Psychic or Ground-type attack aimed at the trash bag. Sawk is another Pokemon to pair nicely with Swoobat, as with a Choice Scarf it outspeeds and punishes any unboosted Dark-type or special wall that can take on Swoobat, while the bat can come in on Psychic attacks targeted at Sawk. Due to its terrible bulk, Swoobat appreciates a Dual Screener that can help cushion blows aimed at Swoobat. Audino is great in this role, as it can not only set up screens, but also pass Wishes and cure any status ailments acquired by Swoobat, who in turn quad resists the Fighting-type attacks aimed at Audino.</p>
[Other Options]
<p>Though Swoobat is best suited as a sweeper, it has a fantastic support movepool at its disposal. However, it lacks any sort of bulk to take advantage of it. Swoobat also has a large special movepool consisting of moves such as Shadow Ball, Giga Drain, Heat Wave, and Signal Beam; however, these moves are generally outclassed as they do not hit anything specific. Charge Beam is an interesting option, as with Simple Swoobat can achieve +2 if it gains the Special Attack boost; however, the boost is not guaranteed. Swoobat can use its ability Klutz in conjunction with Trick to pass off harmful items such as Sticky Barb and Iron Ball, though Simple is the main reason Swoobat should be used. Swoobat is the fastest Dual Screener in the tier, and can use this speed to support the team. However, once again, its bulk means it will usually only get up one screen. Finally, a bulkier version of the Calm Mind set can be utilized, consisting of the moves Substitute / Calm Mind / Stored Power / Roost, though it fails to hit hard off the bat if need be, and Swoobat appreciates the coverage provided by Hidden Power Ground.</p>
[Checks and Counters]
<p>Countering Swoobat can be difficult, as once it has a few boosts it can rip entire teams to shreds, especially if it has a Substitute up. Generally, anything that can outspeed Swoobat can exploit its lackluster bulk and KO it. Sawk is a good choice, as it can come in on Swoobat not protected by a Substitute and KO it with either Stone Edge and Ice Punch. Cinccino is a great check to this set, as it does not only outspeed it, but can also bypass its Substitutes and KO it with a super effective Rock Blast. Bastiodon can come in and phase it out with Roar if Sturdy is intact, though Hidden Power Ground will knock it down to 1 HP after a boost. Finally, for variants that run Air Slash instead of Substitute, Skuntank or Absol can easily come in and cut its sweep short with a Sucker Punch or simply Pursuit trap it.</p>
<p>A good rule of thumb is that anything that can outspeed Swoobat can usually check it. Both Rotom-S and Rotom-F can hit Swoobat with a STAB, super effective Thunderbolt (or a STAB, super effective, yet shaky Blizzard in the case of the latter), though both must be cautious if Swoobat has acquired a few Calm Mind boosts. Golem is another check thanks to Sturdy, as it can take a hit and KO with either Rock Blast or Sucker Punch if Swoobat is not behind a Substitute. If without a Substitute, Choice Scarf Imposter Ditto can come in on Swoobat, steal its boosts, and KO it if it has been weakened. Cacturne is another solid check, as it can take the attacks of all Swoobat that lack Air Slash, as it is immune to its Psychic STAB and resists Hidden Power Ground. The cactus can then proceed to kill it with Sucker Punch or set up a Swords Dance on the switch. Finally, Timid Life Orb Gardevoir can take one Air Slash at +2 and potentially KO Swoobat with Thunderbolt after Stealth Rock damage.</p>
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Nice job The3DOstrich! andOglemi :p
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[Overview]
<p> If one were to take only a single look at Swoobat, words such as “unimpressive” and “outclassed” might pop into mind. And indeed, Swoobat does not seem spectacular, as it appears to be just one of many Psychic-types in the NU tier. Even its name and design scream “harmless”. Indeed, as far as stats go, Swoobat isn’t particularly blessed; while its spectacular base 114 Speed is certainly eye-catching, its second highest stat is a mediocre base 77 Special Attack. So why use it when there are Pokemon such as Gardevoir and Musharna with better bulk and attacking stats? Well, the answer is Simple. </p>
<p>Word play aside, Swoobat was gifted with the ability Simple with the introduction of BW2. This ability, , which when combined with Calm Mind, allows Swoobat to achieve +2 in both Special Attack and Special Defense with a single boost, elevating its mediocre special stats to threatening levels. The good news doesn’t end there, as Swoobat also has access to Stored Power, which after a Simple Calm Mind changes from a measly 20 base power to 100 base power, with two Calm Minds making it as powerful as a V-Create. This, in combination with the STAB bonus and Swoobat’s boosted Special Attack makes it a truly threatening Pokemon. Swoobat is also immune to both Spikes and Toxic Spikes, and quad 4x resistances to the common Fighting-type moves, allowing it to become a truly devastating sweeper.</p>
<p>However, not all is well for our flying friend. Swoobat has horrendous bulk, which can make it difficult for it to find time to set up a Calm Mind. Swoobat is also weak to Stealth Rock, which that limits its switching severely. Finally, its Psychic-typing leaves Swoobat vulnerable to the likes of Skuntank and Absol, as both have the ability to cut its sweep short with a STAB, super effective Sucker Punch, or to simply Pursuit trap it. Despite its flaws, however, if properly supported, Swoobat can sweep through many unprepared teams.</p>
[SET]
name: Calm Mind
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Psychic / Stored Power
move 3: Hidden Power Ground
move 4: Substitute / Air Slash
item: Life Orb / Leftovers
ability: Simple
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>What was once considered a mediocre and outclassed sweeper in NU has ascended to the ranks of a potential top tier threat. Simple allows Swoobat to be granted a Nasty Plot and an Amnesia all in one Calm Mind boost. Thanks to Swoobat’s typing, it can come in on many choice-locked Psychic-types, outspeed them, and set up a Calm Mind while taking little damage. Psychic is the main STAB choice for Swoobat, and although its base power is not affected by the amount of boosts Swoobat achieves, it lets it hits hard right off the bat, something Stored Power cannot achieve. However, Stored Power does have its merits, as if Swoobat manages to accumulate two Calm Minds it can OHKO the majority of the tier with Stored Power alone. Hidden Power Ground allows Swoobat to hits the most common Steels in the tier, such as Probopass and Bastiodon, for super effective damage, while also letting it scoringe a super effective hit on its nemesis Skuntank. The final moveslot for the set is a tricky choice. Substitute is the primary slash as it lets Swoobat bypass Sucker Punch and score a free attack, while also letting it score a free boost on a predicted switch. This also means Swoobat can prevent Imposter Ditto from coming in and stealing your its boosts. If this is the case, then Leftovers is the preferred item, as Substitute and Life Orb recoil means Swoobat will fall before it can do much damage. However, Air Slash functions as a secondary STAB option that can be used with Life Orb, and can be used to hit bulky Grass-types such as like Tangela.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The EVs given are straightforward, as they allow Swoobat to reach maximum Speed for an easier setup while also letting it hit as hard as possible. It should be noted that although Swoobat resists a handful of moves, it should only really come in after a Volt Switch / U-Turn or once another teammate has been KOed, as its measly bulk means it can’t take many hits, even if they are resisted. In terms of other moves, Swoobat has many options. Taunt can be used in order to shut down the opposition from either phazing or setting up, although it faces severe competition for a slot and Swoobat does not have enough bulk to pull it off. Roost is another alternative to keep Swoobat’s health up, though again, it but lacks the bulk to pull it off. Psyshock is an alternative STAB that can hit special walls harder, although Stored Power is usually the better option, as it hits quite hard after a few boosts. With the introduction of BW2, move tutors granted Swoobat recieved many new moves, notably Heat Wave, Giga Drain, and Signal Beam. Heat Wave can be used to hit Steel-types, although it is outclassed by Hidden Power Ground ,which hits the most common Steel-types harder while also slamming Skuntank. Giga Drain can be used to hit bulky Water-types and heal some health, although it has little use outside of that. Finally, Signal Beam can score super effective hits on Psychic- and Dark-types who that resist or are immune to your STAB, respectively.</p>
<p>As far as items go, Swoobat should generally stick to Leftovers to heal Substitute damage or Life Orb to hit harder. However, a Salac Berry is an interesting option, as with Swoobat’s bad bulk and Substitutes, it can easily reach activation range. Not only does this allow Swoobat to outspeed all unboosted Pokemon in the tier, but also allows an extra 40 base power to be added to Stored Power. Swoobat can also switch to a Modest nature if using the berry for more power.</p>
<p>Although Swoobat can easily rip through teams if it sets up, it needs the proper support to do so. The most obvious teammate for Swoobat is a Rapid Spinner, as Swoobat suffers from a crippling Stealth Rock weakness. Armaldo is the best choice for the role, as it can beat opposing Psychics with its Bug-type STAB and set up hazards of its own. However, one must be wary, as both Swoobat and Armaldo share a Rock-type weakness. Speaking of hazards, Garbodor pairs well with Swoobat, as it can set up Spikes and Toxic Spikes to aid in the bat’s sweep, whicho in turn can switch in on any Psychic- or Ground-type attack aimed at the trash bag. Sawk is another Pokemon to pair nicely with Swoobat, as with a Choice Scarf it outspeeds and punishes any unboosted Dark-type or special wall that can take on Swoobat, while the bat can come in on Psychic attacks targeted at Sawk. Due to its terrible bulk, Swoobat appreciates a Dual Screener that can help cushion blows aimed at Swoobat. Audino is great in this role, as it can not only set up screens, but also pass Wishes and cure any status ailments acquired by Swoobat, whicho in turn quad resists the has a 4x resistance to Fighting-type attacks aimed at Audino.</p>
[Other Options]
<p>Although Swoobat is best suited as a sweeper, it has a fantastic support movepool at its disposal. However, it lacks any sort of bulk to take advantage of it. Swoobat also has a large special movepool consisting of moves, such as Shadow Ball, Giga Drain, Heat Wave, and Signal Beam; however, these moves are generally outclassed as they do not hit anything specific. Charge Beam is an interesting option, as with Simple Swoobat can achieve +2 if it gains the Special Attack boost; however, the boost is not guaranteed. Swoobat can use its ability Klutz in conjunction with Trick to pass off harmful items such as Sticky Barb and Iron Ball, although Simple is the main reason Swoobat should be used. Swoobat is the fastest Dual Screener in the tier, and can use this s its Speed to support the team. However, once again, its bulk means it will usually only get up one screen. Finally, a bulkier version of the Calm Mind set can be utilized, consisting of the moves Substitute / Calm Mind / Stored Power / Roost, although it fails to hit hard off the bat if need be, and Swoobat appreciates the coverage provided by Hidden Power Ground.</p>
[Checks and Counters]
<p>Countering Swoobat can be difficult, as once it has a few boosts it can rip entire teams to shreds, especially if it has a Substitute up. Generally, anything that can outspeed Swoobat can exploit its lackluster bulk and KO it. Sawk is a good choice, as it can come in on Swoobat not protected by a Substitute and KO it with either Stone Edge and or Ice Punch. Cinccino is a great check to this set, as it does not only outspeed it, but can also bypass its Substitutes and KO it with a super effective Rock Blast. Bastiodon can come in and phase phaze it out with Roar if Sturdy is intact, although Hidden Power Ground will knock it down to 1 HP after a boost. Finally, for variants that run Air Slash instead of Substitute, Skuntank or Absol can easily come in and cut its sweep short with a Sucker Punch or simply Pursuit trap it.</p>
<p>A good rule of thumb is that anything that can outspeed Swoobat can usually check it. Both Rotom-S and Rotom-F can hit Swoobat with a STAB, super effective Thunderbolt (or a STAB, super effective, yet shaky Blizzard in the case of the latter), although both must be cautious if Swoobat has acquired a few Calm Mind boosts. Golem is another check thanks to Sturdy, as it can take a hit and KO with either Rock Blast or Sucker Punch if Swoobat is not behind a Substitute. If without a Substitute, Choice Scarf Imposter Ditto can come in on Swoobat, steal its boosts, and KO it ,if it has been weakened. Cacturne is another solid check, as it can take the attacks of all Swoobat that lack Air Slash, as it is immune to its Psychic STAB and resists Hidden Power Ground. The cactus can then proceed to kill it with Sucker Punch or set up a Swords Dance on the switch. Finally, Timid Life Orb Gardevoir can take one Air Slash at +2 and potentially KO Swoobat with Thunderbolt after Stealth Rock damage.</p>
<p> If one were to take only a single look at Swoobat, words such as “unimpressive” and “outclassed” might pop into mind. And indeed, Swoobat does not seem spectacular, as it appears to be just one of many Psychic-types in the NU tier. Even its name and design scream “harmless”. Indeed, as far as stats go, Swoobat isn’t particularly blessed; while its spectacular base 114 Speed is certainly eye-catching, its second highest stat is a mediocre base 77 Special Attack. So why use it when there are Pokemon such as Gardevoir and Musharna with better bulk and attacking stats? Well, the answer is Simple. </p>
<p>Word play aside, Swoobat was gifted with the ability Simple with the introduction of BW2. This ability, , which when combined with Calm Mind, allows Swoobat to achieve +2 in both Special Attack and Special Defense with a single boost, elevating its mediocre special stats to threatening levels. The good news doesn’t end there, as Swoobat also has access to Stored Power, which after a Simple Calm Mind changes from a measly 20 base power to 100 base power, with two Calm Minds making it as powerful as a V-Create. This, in combination with the STAB bonus and Swoobat’s boosted Special Attack makes it a truly threatening Pokemon. Swoobat is also immune to both Spikes and Toxic Spikes, and quad 4x resistances to the common Fighting-type moves, allowing it to become a truly devastating sweeper.</p>
<p>However, not all is well for our flying friend. Swoobat has horrendous bulk, which can make it difficult for it to find time to set up a Calm Mind. Swoobat is also weak to Stealth Rock, which that limits its switching severely. Finally, its Psychic-typing leaves Swoobat vulnerable to the likes of Skuntank and Absol, as both have the ability to cut its sweep short with a STAB, super effective Sucker Punch, or to simply Pursuit trap it. Despite its flaws, however, if properly supported, Swoobat can sweep through many unprepared teams.</p>
[SET]
name: Calm Mind
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Psychic / Stored Power
move 3: Hidden Power Ground
move 4: Substitute / Air Slash
item: Life Orb / Leftovers
ability: Simple
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>What was once considered a mediocre and outclassed sweeper in NU has ascended to the ranks of a potential top tier threat. Simple allows Swoobat to be granted a Nasty Plot and an Amnesia all in one Calm Mind boost. Thanks to Swoobat’s typing, it can come in on many choice-locked Psychic-types, outspeed them, and set up a Calm Mind while taking little damage. Psychic is the main STAB choice for Swoobat, and although its base power is not affected by the amount of boosts Swoobat achieves, it lets it hits hard right off the bat, something Stored Power cannot achieve. However, Stored Power does have its merits, as if Swoobat manages to accumulate two Calm Minds it can OHKO the majority of the tier with Stored Power alone. Hidden Power Ground allows Swoobat to hits the most common Steels in the tier, such as Probopass and Bastiodon, for super effective damage, while also letting it scoringe a super effective hit on its nemesis Skuntank. The final moveslot for the set is a tricky choice. Substitute is the primary slash as it lets Swoobat bypass Sucker Punch and score a free attack, while also letting it score a free boost on a predicted switch. This also means Swoobat can prevent Imposter Ditto from coming in and stealing your its boosts. If this is the case, then Leftovers is the preferred item, as Substitute and Life Orb recoil means Swoobat will fall before it can do much damage. However, Air Slash functions as a secondary STAB option that can be used with Life Orb, and can be used to hit bulky Grass-types such as like Tangela.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The EVs given are straightforward, as they allow Swoobat to reach maximum Speed for an easier setup while also letting it hit as hard as possible. It should be noted that although Swoobat resists a handful of moves, it should only really come in after a Volt Switch / U-Turn or once another teammate has been KOed, as its measly bulk means it can’t take many hits, even if they are resisted. In terms of other moves, Swoobat has many options. Taunt can be used in order to shut down the opposition from either phazing or setting up, although it faces severe competition for a slot and Swoobat does not have enough bulk to pull it off. Roost is another alternative to keep Swoobat’s health up, though again, it but lacks the bulk to pull it off. Psyshock is an alternative STAB that can hit special walls harder, although Stored Power is usually the better option, as it hits quite hard after a few boosts. With the introduction of BW2, move tutors granted Swoobat recieved many new moves, notably Heat Wave, Giga Drain, and Signal Beam. Heat Wave can be used to hit Steel-types, although it is outclassed by Hidden Power Ground ,which hits the most common Steel-types harder while also slamming Skuntank. Giga Drain can be used to hit bulky Water-types and heal some health, although it has little use outside of that. Finally, Signal Beam can score super effective hits on Psychic- and Dark-types who that resist or are immune to your STAB, respectively.</p>
<p>As far as items go, Swoobat should generally stick to Leftovers to heal Substitute damage or Life Orb to hit harder. However, a Salac Berry is an interesting option, as with Swoobat’s bad bulk and Substitutes, it can easily reach activation range. Not only does this allow Swoobat to outspeed all unboosted Pokemon in the tier, but also allows an extra 40 base power to be added to Stored Power. Swoobat can also switch to a Modest nature if using the berry for more power.</p>
<p>Although Swoobat can easily rip through teams if it sets up, it needs the proper support to do so. The most obvious teammate for Swoobat is a Rapid Spinner, as Swoobat suffers from a crippling Stealth Rock weakness. Armaldo is the best choice for the role, as it can beat opposing Psychics with its Bug-type STAB and set up hazards of its own. However, one must be wary, as both Swoobat and Armaldo share a Rock-type weakness. Speaking of hazards, Garbodor pairs well with Swoobat, as it can set up Spikes and Toxic Spikes to aid in the bat’s sweep, whicho in turn can switch in on any Psychic- or Ground-type attack aimed at the trash bag. Sawk is another Pokemon to pair nicely with Swoobat, as with a Choice Scarf it outspeeds and punishes any unboosted Dark-type or special wall that can take on Swoobat, while the bat can come in on Psychic attacks targeted at Sawk. Due to its terrible bulk, Swoobat appreciates a Dual Screener that can help cushion blows aimed at Swoobat. Audino is great in this role, as it can not only set up screens, but also pass Wishes and cure any status ailments acquired by Swoobat, whicho in turn quad resists the has a 4x resistance to Fighting-type attacks aimed at Audino.</p>
[Other Options]
<p>Although Swoobat is best suited as a sweeper, it has a fantastic support movepool at its disposal. However, it lacks any sort of bulk to take advantage of it. Swoobat also has a large special movepool consisting of moves, such as Shadow Ball, Giga Drain, Heat Wave, and Signal Beam; however, these moves are generally outclassed as they do not hit anything specific. Charge Beam is an interesting option, as with Simple Swoobat can achieve +2 if it gains the Special Attack boost; however, the boost is not guaranteed. Swoobat can use its ability Klutz in conjunction with Trick to pass off harmful items such as Sticky Barb and Iron Ball, although Simple is the main reason Swoobat should be used. Swoobat is the fastest Dual Screener in the tier, and can use this s its Speed to support the team. However, once again, its bulk means it will usually only get up one screen. Finally, a bulkier version of the Calm Mind set can be utilized, consisting of the moves Substitute / Calm Mind / Stored Power / Roost, although it fails to hit hard off the bat if need be, and Swoobat appreciates the coverage provided by Hidden Power Ground.</p>
[Checks and Counters]
<p>Countering Swoobat can be difficult, as once it has a few boosts it can rip entire teams to shreds, especially if it has a Substitute up. Generally, anything that can outspeed Swoobat can exploit its lackluster bulk and KO it. Sawk is a good choice, as it can come in on Swoobat not protected by a Substitute and KO it with either Stone Edge and or Ice Punch. Cinccino is a great check to this set, as it does not only outspeed it, but can also bypass its Substitutes and KO it with a super effective Rock Blast. Bastiodon can come in and phase phaze it out with Roar if Sturdy is intact, although Hidden Power Ground will knock it down to 1 HP after a boost. Finally, for variants that run Air Slash instead of Substitute, Skuntank or Absol can easily come in and cut its sweep short with a Sucker Punch or simply Pursuit trap it.</p>
<p>A good rule of thumb is that anything that can outspeed Swoobat can usually check it. Both Rotom-S and Rotom-F can hit Swoobat with a STAB, super effective Thunderbolt (or a STAB, super effective, yet shaky Blizzard in the case of the latter), although both must be cautious if Swoobat has acquired a few Calm Mind boosts. Golem is another check thanks to Sturdy, as it can take a hit and KO with either Rock Blast or Sucker Punch if Swoobat is not behind a Substitute. If without a Substitute, Choice Scarf Imposter Ditto can come in on Swoobat, steal its boosts, and KO it ,if it has been weakened. Cacturne is another solid check, as it can take the attacks of all Swoobat that lack Air Slash, as it is immune to its Psychic STAB and resists Hidden Power Ground. The cactus can then proceed to kill it with Sucker Punch or set up a Swords Dance on the switch. Finally, Timid Life Orb Gardevoir can take one Air Slash at +2 and potentially KO Swoobat with Thunderbolt after Stealth Rock damage.</p>
[Overview]
<p> If one were to take only a single look at Swoobat, words such as “unimpressive” and “outclassed” might pop into mind. And indeed, Swoobat does not seem spectacular, as it appears to be just one of many Psychic-types in NU. Even its name and design scream “harmless”. Indeed, as far as stats go, Swoobat isn’t particularly blessed; while its spectacular base 114 Speed is certainly eye-catching, its second highest stat is a mediocre base 77 Special Attack. So why use it when there are Pokemon such as Gardevoir and Musharna with better bulk and attacking stats? Well, the answer is Simple. </p>
<p>Word play aside, Swoobat was gifted with the ability Simple, which when combined with Calm Mind, allows Swoobat to achieve +2 in both Special Attack and Special Defense with a single boost, elevating its mediocre special stats to threatening levels. The good news doesn’t end there, as Swoobat also has access to Stored Power, which after a Simple Calm Mind changes from a measly 20 base power to 100 base power, with two Calm Minds making it as powerful as V-Create. This, in combination with the STAB bonus and Swoobat’s boosted Special Attack makes it a truly threatening Pokemon. Swoobat is also immune to both Spikes and Toxic Spikes, and 4x resistance to the common Fighting-type moves, allowing it to become a truly devastating sweeper.</p>
<p>However, not all is well for our flying friend. Swoobat has horrendous bulk, which can make it difficult for it to find time to set up a Calm Mind. Swoobat is also weak to Stealth Rock that limits its switching severely. Finally, its Psychic-typing leaves Swoobat vulnerable to the likes of Skuntank and Absol, as both have the ability to cut its sweep short with a STAB, super effective Sucker Punch, or to simply Pursuit trap it. Despite its flaws, however, if properly supported, Swoobat can sweep through many unprepared teams.</p>
[SET]
name: Calm Mind
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Psychic / Stored Power
move 3: Hidden Power Ground
move 4: Substitute / Air Slash
item: Life Orb / Leftovers
ability: Simple
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>What was once considered a mediocre and outclassed sweeper in NU has ascended to the ranks of a potential top tier threat. Simple allows Swoobat to be granted a Nasty Plot and an Amnesia all in one Calm Mind boost. Thanks to Swoobat’s typing, it can come in on many choice-locked Psychic-types, outspeed them, and set up a Calm Mind while taking little damage. Psychic is the main STAB choice for Swoobat, although its base power is not affected by the amount of boosts Swoobat achieves, it hits hard right off the bat, something Stored Power cannot achieve. However, Stored Power does have its merits, as if Swoobat manages to accumulate two Calm Minds it can OHKO the majority of the tier with Stored Power alone. Hidden Power Ground hits the most common Steels in the tier, such as Probopass and Bastiodon, for super effective damage, while also scoring a super effective hit on its nemesis Skuntank. The final moveslot for the set is a tricky choice. Substitute is the primary slash as it lets Swoobat bypass Sucker Punch and score a free attack, while also letting it score a free boost on a predicted switch. This also means Swoobat can prevent Imposter Ditto from coming in and stealing its boosts. If this is the case, then Leftovers is the preferred item, as Substitute and Life Orb recoil means Swoobat will fall before it can do much damage. However, Air Slash functions as a secondary STAB option that can be used with Life Orb, and can be used to hit bulky Grass-types like Tangela.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The EVs given are straightforward, as they allow Swoobat to reach maximum Speed for an easier setup while also letting it hit as hard as possible. It should be noted that although Swoobat resists a handful of moves, it should only really come in after a Volt Switch / U-Turn or once another teammate has been KOed, as its measly bulk means it can’t take many hits, even if they are resisted. In terms of other moves, Swoobat has many options. Taunt can be used in order to shut down the opposition from either phazing or setting up, although it faces severe competition for a slot and Swoobat does not have enough bulk to pull it off. Roost is another alternative to keep Swoobat’s health up, but lacks the bulk to pull it off. Psyshock is an alternative STAB that can hit special walls harder, although Stored Power is usually the better option, as it hits quite hard after a few boosts. Swoobat recieved many new moves, notably Heat Wave, Giga Drain, and Signal Beam. Heat Wave can be used to hit Steel-types, although it is outclassed by Hidden Power Ground ,which hits the most common Steel-types harder while also slamming Skuntank. Giga Drain can be used to hit bulky Water-types and heal some health, although has little use outside of that. Finally, Signal Beam can score super effective hits on Psychic- and Dark-types that resist or are immune to your STAB, respectively.</p>
<p>As far as items go, Swoobat should generally stick to Leftovers to heal Substitute damage or Life Orb to hit harder. However, a Salac Berry is an interesting option, as with Swoobat’s bad bulk and Substitutes, it can easily reach activation range. Not only does this allow Swoobat to outspeed all unboosted Pokemon in the tier, but also allows an extra 40 base power to be added to Stored Power. Swoobat can also switch to a Modest nature if using the berry for more power.</p>
<p>Although Swoobat can easily rip through teams if it sets up, it needs the proper support to do so. The most obvious teammate for Swoobat is a Rapid Spinner, as Swoobat suffers from a crippling Stealth Rock weakness. Armaldo is the best choice for the role, as it can beat opposing Psychics with its Bug-type STAB and set up hazards of its own. However, one must be wary, as both Swoobat and Armaldo share a Rock-type weakness. Speaking of hazards, Garbodor pairs well with Swoobat, as it can set up Spikes and Toxic Spikes to aid in the bat’s sweep, which in turn can switch in on any Psychic- or Ground-type attack aimed at the trash bag. Sawk is another Pokemon to pair nicely with Swoobat, as with a Choice Scarf it outspeeds and punishes any unboosted Dark-type or special wall that can take on Swoobat, while the bat can come in on Psychic attacks targeted at Sawk. Due to its terrible bulk, Swoobat appreciates a Dual Screener that can help cushion blows aimed at Swoobat. Audino is great in this role, as it can not only set up screens, but also pass Wishes and cure any status ailments acquired by Swoobat, which has a 4x resistance to Fighting-type attacks aimed at Audino.</p>
[Other Options]
<p>Although Swoobat is best suited as a sweeper, it has a fantastic support movepool at its disposal. However, it lacks any sort of bulk to take advantage of it. Swoobat also has a large special movepool consisting of moves, such as Shadow Ball, Giga Drain, Heat Wave, and Signal Beam; however, these moves are generally outclassed as they do not hit anything specific. Charge Beam is an interesting option, as with Simple Swoobat can achieve +2 if it gains the Special Attack boost; however, the boost is not guaranteed. Swoobat can use its ability Klutz in conjunction with Trick to pass off harmful items such as Sticky Barb and Iron Ball, although Simple is the main reason Swoobat should be used. Swoobat is the fastest Dual Screener in the tier, and can use its Speed to support the team. However, its bulk means it will usually only get up one screen. Finally, a bulkier version of the Calm Mind set can be utilized, consisting of Substitute / Calm Mind / Stored Power / Roost, although it fails to hit hard off the bat if need be, and Swoobat appreciates the coverage provided by Hidden Power Ground.</p>
[Checks and Counters]
<p>Countering Swoobat can be difficult, as once it has a few boosts it can rip entire teams to shreds, especially if it has a Substitute up. Generally, anything that can outspeed Swoobat can exploit its lackluster bulk and KO it. Sawk is a good choice, as it can come in on Swoobat not protected by a Substitute and KO it with either Stone Edge or Ice Punch. Cinccino is a great check to this set, as it does not only outspeed it, but can also bypass its Substitutes and KO it with a super effective Rock Blast. Bastiodon can come in and phaze with Roar if Sturdy is intact, although Hidden Power Ground will knock it down to 1 HP after a boost. Finally, for variants that run Air Slash instead of Substitute, Skuntank or Absol can easily come in and cut its sweep short with a Sucker Punch or simply Pursuit trap it.</p>
<p>A good rule of thumb is that anything that can outspeed Swoobat can usually check it. Both Rotom-S and Rotom-F can hit Swoobat with a STAB, super effective Thunderbolt (or a STAB, super effective, yet shaky Blizzard in the case of the latter), although both must be cautious if Swoobat has acquired a few Calm Mind boosts. Golem is another check thanks to Sturdy, as it can take a hit and KO with either Rock Blast or Sucker Punch if Swoobat is not behind a Substitute. If without a Substitute, Choice Scarf Imposter Ditto can come in on Swoobat, steal its boosts, and KO, if it has been weakened. Cacturne is another solid check, as it can take the attacks of all Swoobat that lack Air Slash, as it is immune to its Psychic STAB and resists Hidden Power Ground. The cactus can then proceed to kill it with Sucker Punch or set up a Swords Dance on the switch. Finally, Timid Life Orb Gardevoir can take one Air Slash at +2 and potentially KO Swoobat with Thunderbolt after Stealth Rock damage.</p>
<p> If one were to take only a single look at Swoobat, words such as “unimpressive” and “outclassed” might pop into mind. And indeed, Swoobat does not seem spectacular, as it appears to be just one of many Psychic-types in NU. Even its name and design scream “harmless”. Indeed, as far as stats go, Swoobat isn’t particularly blessed; while its spectacular base 114 Speed is certainly eye-catching, its second highest stat is a mediocre base 77 Special Attack. So why use it when there are Pokemon such as Gardevoir and Musharna with better bulk and attacking stats? Well, the answer is Simple. </p>
<p>Word play aside, Swoobat was gifted with the ability Simple, which when combined with Calm Mind, allows Swoobat to achieve +2 in both Special Attack and Special Defense with a single boost, elevating its mediocre special stats to threatening levels. The good news doesn’t end there, as Swoobat also has access to Stored Power, which after a Simple Calm Mind changes from a measly 20 base power to 100 base power, with two Calm Minds making it as powerful as V-Create. This, in combination with the STAB bonus and Swoobat’s boosted Special Attack makes it a truly threatening Pokemon. Swoobat is also immune to both Spikes and Toxic Spikes, and 4x resistance to the common Fighting-type moves, allowing it to become a truly devastating sweeper.</p>
<p>However, not all is well for our flying friend. Swoobat has horrendous bulk, which can make it difficult for it to find time to set up a Calm Mind. Swoobat is also weak to Stealth Rock that limits its switching severely. Finally, its Psychic-typing leaves Swoobat vulnerable to the likes of Skuntank and Absol, as both have the ability to cut its sweep short with a STAB, super effective Sucker Punch, or to simply Pursuit trap it. Despite its flaws, however, if properly supported, Swoobat can sweep through many unprepared teams.</p>
[SET]
name: Calm Mind
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Psychic / Stored Power
move 3: Hidden Power Ground
move 4: Substitute / Air Slash
item: Life Orb / Leftovers
ability: Simple
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>What was once considered a mediocre and outclassed sweeper in NU has ascended to the ranks of a potential top tier threat. Simple allows Swoobat to be granted a Nasty Plot and an Amnesia all in one Calm Mind boost. Thanks to Swoobat’s typing, it can come in on many choice-locked Psychic-types, outspeed them, and set up a Calm Mind while taking little damage. Psychic is the main STAB choice for Swoobat, although its base power is not affected by the amount of boosts Swoobat achieves, it hits hard right off the bat, something Stored Power cannot achieve. However, Stored Power does have its merits, as if Swoobat manages to accumulate two Calm Minds it can OHKO the majority of the tier with Stored Power alone. Hidden Power Ground hits the most common Steels in the tier, such as Probopass and Bastiodon, for super effective damage, while also scoring a super effective hit on its nemesis Skuntank. The final moveslot for the set is a tricky choice. Substitute is the primary slash as it lets Swoobat bypass Sucker Punch and score a free attack, while also letting it score a free boost on a predicted switch. This also means Swoobat can prevent Imposter Ditto from coming in and stealing its boosts. If this is the case, then Leftovers is the preferred item, as Substitute and Life Orb recoil means Swoobat will fall before it can do much damage. However, Air Slash functions as a secondary STAB option that can be used with Life Orb, and can be used to hit bulky Grass-types like Tangela.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The EVs given are straightforward, as they allow Swoobat to reach maximum Speed for an easier setup while also letting it hit as hard as possible. It should be noted that although Swoobat resists a handful of moves, it should only really come in after a Volt Switch / U-Turn or once another teammate has been KOed, as its measly bulk means it can’t take many hits, even if they are resisted. In terms of other moves, Swoobat has many options. Taunt can be used in order to shut down the opposition from either phazing or setting up, although it faces severe competition for a slot and Swoobat does not have enough bulk to pull it off. Roost is another alternative to keep Swoobat’s health up, but lacks the bulk to pull it off. Psyshock is an alternative STAB that can hit special walls harder, although Stored Power is usually the better option, as it hits quite hard after a few boosts. Swoobat recieved many new moves, notably Heat Wave, Giga Drain, and Signal Beam. Heat Wave can be used to hit Steel-types, although it is outclassed by Hidden Power Ground ,which hits the most common Steel-types harder while also slamming Skuntank. Giga Drain can be used to hit bulky Water-types and heal some health, although has little use outside of that. Finally, Signal Beam can score super effective hits on Psychic- and Dark-types that resist or are immune to your STAB, respectively.</p>
<p>As far as items go, Swoobat should generally stick to Leftovers to heal Substitute damage or Life Orb to hit harder. However, a Salac Berry is an interesting option, as with Swoobat’s bad bulk and Substitutes, it can easily reach activation range. Not only does this allow Swoobat to outspeed all unboosted Pokemon in the tier, but also allows an extra 40 base power to be added to Stored Power. Swoobat can also switch to a Modest nature if using the berry for more power.</p>
<p>Although Swoobat can easily rip through teams if it sets up, it needs the proper support to do so. The most obvious teammate for Swoobat is a Rapid Spinner, as Swoobat suffers from a crippling Stealth Rock weakness. Armaldo is the best choice for the role, as it can beat opposing Psychics with its Bug-type STAB and set up hazards of its own. However, one must be wary, as both Swoobat and Armaldo share a Rock-type weakness. Speaking of hazards, Garbodor pairs well with Swoobat, as it can set up Spikes and Toxic Spikes to aid in the bat’s sweep, which in turn can switch in on any Psychic- or Ground-type attack aimed at the trash bag. Sawk is another Pokemon to pair nicely with Swoobat, as with a Choice Scarf it outspeeds and punishes any unboosted Dark-type or special wall that can take on Swoobat, while the bat can come in on Psychic attacks targeted at Sawk. Due to its terrible bulk, Swoobat appreciates a Dual Screener that can help cushion blows aimed at Swoobat. Audino is great in this role, as it can not only set up screens, but also pass Wishes and cure any status ailments acquired by Swoobat, which has a 4x resistance to Fighting-type attacks aimed at Audino.</p>
[Other Options]
<p>Although Swoobat is best suited as a sweeper, it has a fantastic support movepool at its disposal. However, it lacks any sort of bulk to take advantage of it. Swoobat also has a large special movepool consisting of moves, such as Shadow Ball, Giga Drain, Heat Wave, and Signal Beam; however, these moves are generally outclassed as they do not hit anything specific. Charge Beam is an interesting option, as with Simple Swoobat can achieve +2 if it gains the Special Attack boost; however, the boost is not guaranteed. Swoobat can use its ability Klutz in conjunction with Trick to pass off harmful items such as Sticky Barb and Iron Ball, although Simple is the main reason Swoobat should be used. Swoobat is the fastest Dual Screener in the tier, and can use its Speed to support the team. However, its bulk means it will usually only get up one screen. Finally, a bulkier version of the Calm Mind set can be utilized, consisting of Substitute / Calm Mind / Stored Power / Roost, although it fails to hit hard off the bat if need be, and Swoobat appreciates the coverage provided by Hidden Power Ground.</p>
[Checks and Counters]
<p>Countering Swoobat can be difficult, as once it has a few boosts it can rip entire teams to shreds, especially if it has a Substitute up. Generally, anything that can outspeed Swoobat can exploit its lackluster bulk and KO it. Sawk is a good choice, as it can come in on Swoobat not protected by a Substitute and KO it with either Stone Edge or Ice Punch. Cinccino is a great check to this set, as it does not only outspeed it, but can also bypass its Substitutes and KO it with a super effective Rock Blast. Bastiodon can come in and phaze with Roar if Sturdy is intact, although Hidden Power Ground will knock it down to 1 HP after a boost. Finally, for variants that run Air Slash instead of Substitute, Skuntank or Absol can easily come in and cut its sweep short with a Sucker Punch or simply Pursuit trap it.</p>
<p>A good rule of thumb is that anything that can outspeed Swoobat can usually check it. Both Rotom-S and Rotom-F can hit Swoobat with a STAB, super effective Thunderbolt (or a STAB, super effective, yet shaky Blizzard in the case of the latter), although both must be cautious if Swoobat has acquired a few Calm Mind boosts. Golem is another check thanks to Sturdy, as it can take a hit and KO with either Rock Blast or Sucker Punch if Swoobat is not behind a Substitute. If without a Substitute, Choice Scarf Imposter Ditto can come in on Swoobat, steal its boosts, and KO, if it has been weakened. Cacturne is another solid check, as it can take the attacks of all Swoobat that lack Air Slash, as it is immune to its Psychic STAB and resists Hidden Power Ground. The cactus can then proceed to kill it with Sucker Punch or set up a Swords Dance on the switch. Finally, Timid Life Orb Gardevoir can take one Air Slash at +2 and potentially KO Swoobat with Thunderbolt after Stealth Rock damage.</p>
Nice job The3DOstrich! and
[gp]2/2[/gp]
