OU Thundurus-T

skies

skies

is a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Social Media Contributor Alumnusis a Forum Moderator Alumnusis a Community Contributor Alumnusis a Metagame Resource Contributor Alumnusis a Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Media Contributor Alumnusis a Battle Simulator Moderator Alumnus
taken over from Swamp Link, using most of his points and transforming it to match current stuff

642-therian.png

Serebii - Bulbapedia - Smogon
QC: aim / alexwolf / Valentine
GP: fleurdyleurse / GatoDelFuego
​
Overview
########

Thundurus-T's Special Attack stat is one of the highest in OU, this is backed up by Thundurus-T's nice Speed tier of 101, allowing it to outspeed the many Pokemon with base 100 Speed. With two great boosting moves in Agility and Nasty Plot, Thundurus-T is certainly a force to contend with. At +2 Special Attack, Thundurus-T has no safe switch-ins; even Chansey is 2HKOed by it. Thundurus-T's typing provides it with resistances or neutrality to almost all forms of priority, including Aqua Jet, Mach Punch, Bullet Punch, Extreme Speed, and Sucker Punch. Volt Absorb isn't as useful as Prankster, but does provide Thundurus-T with a source of recovery and an immunity; it also enables Thundurus-T to check opposing Electric-types such as Magnezone and Thundurus. However, Thundurus-T suffers huge competition from its other forme, which has a better Speed stat and two much better and less situational abilities. Thundurus-T still suffers from a lack of bulk, which is especially noticeable with its Stealth Rock weakness. Thundurus-T has an extremely large case of four-moveslot syndrome, not being able to fit all the coverage or boosting options it would like to. Its coverage moves are also quite lacking, with the only two being Hidden Power and the unreliable Focus Blast.

Nasty Plot
########
name: Nasty Plot
move 1: Nasty Plot
move 2: Thunderbolt
move 3: Hidden Power Flying
move 4: Focus Blast
ability: Volt Absorb
item: Leftovers / Lum Berry
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
ivs: 30 HP / 0 Atk / 30 Def / 30 SpA / 30 SpD
nature: Timid

Moves
========

Nasty Plot boosts Thundurus-T's already high Special Attack and transforms it into a huge threat for stall teams because of its ability to 2HKO pretty much all Pokemon commonly used on stall teams, such as Chansey. Thunderbolt is an extremely powerful STAB move with a nifty chance to paralyze, hitting many Pokemon extremely hard at +2. Hidden Power Flying is nice for hitting Pokemon that are resistant to Electric-type attacks, particularly Grass-types such as Mega Venusaur. Alternatively, Hidden Power Ice is a usable option to form a pseudo-BoltBeam combination with Thunderbolt, but is not very useful because Hidden Power Flying hits everything relevant harder, such as Mega Venusaur and Quagsire. Focus Blast rounds off Thundurus-T's coverage by hitting Kyurem-B and Excadrill, as well as nearly everything in OU, hard. Grass Knot is a usable option to nail Hippowdon, but +2 Focus Blast will give it trouble anyway.

Set Details
========

252 Special Attack EVs allow Thundurus-T to make full use of its high Special Attack, while maximum Speed investment and a Timid nature enable it to outspeed the crowded base 100 Speed tier. A Modest nature could be used for a boost in power, although it's imprudent to do so because no notable KOs are achieved by doing so. The IVs listed are to keep Thundurus-T's stats high in general while still having Hidden Power Flying. Running 30 in five stats appear unappealing; the only other way to get to Hidden Power Flying is with 30 Speed IVs, but having maximum Speed is far too important to pass up. Running 0 Attack EVs does not hamper with Thundurus-T's Hidden Power type and allows it to take les Foul Play damage. Leftovers enable Thundurus-T to slowly recover health and possibly gain more chances to set up. A Lum Berry is also usable to give Thundurus-T a one-time save from being hit by Toxic. Life Orb is not a recommended item because it wears down Thundurus-T, which is already worn down very rapidly, too quickly.

Usage Tips
========

Using Thundurus-T as an early- or mid-game wallbreaker is advised, as it can wear down defensive cores for teammates to have an easier time sweeping late-game. Thundurus-T especially excels against stall thanks to its ability to severely damage almost every Pokemon usually found in stall teams; however, this is not the case for offensive teams. Offensive teams are often too fast-paced for Thundurus-T, and it will often struggle to do much versus them. Bringing in Thundurus-T via a slow U-turn or Volt Switch is greatly appreciated because it lacks switch-in opportunities. Prediction plays a large part in how Thundurus-T is used. Usually, just attacking offensive checks is best because it can wear them down for a later time. One key example of this is when to use Nasty Plot; using the move while an offensive check is still in the match is not advised; Thundurus-T is better switching out or attacking on the switch. Focus Blast's unreliability can be a bit of a disappointment at times, as an untimely miss can cause Thundurus-T to be KOed, so always be wary when using it.

Team Options
========

Entry hazard support is very useful. For example, with just one layer of Spikes, Thundurus-T secures the 2HKO on Chansey. Azumarill stands out as an offensive partner because it shares great synergy with Thundurus-T and is able to check Greninja. Similarly, Keldeo can break down Chansey and Tyranitar with ease and also enjoys Thundurus-T's ability to take on Mega Venusaur. Pursuit support from the likes of Bisharp and Tyranitar is beneficial because it can remove Latias and Latios, which otherwise can revenge kill Thundurus-T. Lucario forms a powerful offensive core because of the two's synergy and ability to wear down each other's checks for one or the other to sweep late-game. Finally, Mega Scizor can pivot Thundurus-T in with U-turn and can also use Defog to remove the hazards Thundurus-T is not fond of.

Other Options
########

Choice Scarf is the primary option when not running the set, as thanks to its base 101 Speed, Thundurus-T can outspeed all base 100 Speed Choice Scarf users. Agility can be used in a similar vein and works well because it allows Thundurus-T. A set using both Agility and Nasty Plot can be used, but hyper offense teams apply too much pressure and Thundurus-T will almost never be able to boost both of its stats. Knock Off could see use for removing Chansey's Eviolite and Hippowdon's Leftovers to make these threats easier for it to break through; Knock Off also has the added benefit of hitting both Latios and Latias super effectively. U-turn keeps up momentum and is preferred over Volt Switch because it can be used on potential Ground-type switch-ins. Substitute is an intriguing option as a shield against Toxic, but four-moveslot syndrome makes it hard for Thundurus-T to give up coverage. Taunt could be used as a larger annoyance to stall teams by preventing recovery or entry hazard setup.

Checks & Counters
########

**Revenge Killing**: Like other setup sweepers, Thundurus-T is very vulnerable to revenge killing. For example, Choice Scarf Landorus-T and Tyranitar can outspeed and KO it with Stone Edge. Similarly, Greninja can revenge kill with Ice Beam as can Latias and Latios with Draco Meteor; however, the latter three cannot switch directly into Thundurus-T. Some other examples include Choice Scarf Keldeo, Choice Scarf Latios, and Choice Scarf Terrakion. It should be noted that priority falls under the 'revenge killing' category when Thundurus-T is a bit weakened; such examples include Azumarill's Aqua Jet and Bisharp's Sucker Punch.

**Bulkier Special Walls**: When Nasty Plot is not run, Pokemon like Hippowdon and Chansey can wall Thundurus-T quite easily because it just lacks the raw power to break through them. Hippowdon can also wall it in general because Thundurus-T will have to rely on the unreliable Focus Blast in hopes to break through it. Clefable and Mew both shrug off unboosted Thunderbolt and have the ability to stomach a boosted hit as well.

**Offensive Pressure**: By leaving Thundurus-T with little room to set up, it cannot boost and so is left weak. This is especially noticeable against hyper offense teams, which Thundurus-T struggles with. Generally Pokemon that either threaten to KO it or outspeed it with super effective moves are enough to apply pressure; this includes Mega Charizard X, Greninja, and Terrakion. All of these Pokemon have strong moves that can overpower Thundurus-T and force it to switch, therefore preventing it from boosting.

Overview
########
  • Second highest Special Attack of all non-Uber Electric- and Flying-type Pokemon, with only Mega Charizard Y and Mega Ampharos having higher; however, Thundurus-T has the highest Special Attack of non-Mega Pokemon.
  • 101 Speed is nice to outspeed the especially crowded base 100 tier, Speed tieing with Landorus-I; makes Choice Scarf a good option for this reason.
  • Great boosting capability with access to both Agility and Nasty Plot to boost both its Speed and Special Attack to threatening levels.
  • Strong wallbreaker with Focus Blast, being able to 2HKO even Chansey at +2.
  • Thanks to its expansive movepool, predicting what set it is running can prove to be a bit of a challenge.
  • Thundurus-T's typing leaves it resistant or neutral to many forms of priority including Aqua Jet, Mach Punch, Bullet Punch, Extreme Speed, and also Sucker Punch.
  • Volt Absorb provides a means of recovery and offers a nice immunity to Electric-type moves, making it a great switch into opposing Electric-types such as Magnezone or Thundurus-I.
  • //////////
  • Fairly outclassed by Thundurus-I because running Thundurus-T means you cannot running Thundurus-I. Defiant + Prankster are also usually much better abilities than Volt Absorb as well.
  • While 101 Speed is good, it's not great and leaves Thundurus-T outsped by many Pokemon such as the ever prominent Thundurus-I for example.
  • Poor bulk really and cannot live many hits due to this, this is compounded with its Stealth Rock weakness hindering its ability to switch in.
  • Very large issue of not being able to fit everything it would like to on a set by itself, wanting to run boosting options and coverage; it will always be walled by one thing or another.
  • Main coverage option consists of Focus Blast which has very shaky accuracy, coverage otherwise consists of Hidden Power.
Nasty Plot
########
name: Nasty Plot
move 1: Nasty Plot
move 2: Thunderbolt
move 3: Hidden Power Flying
move 4: Focus Blast
ability: Volt Absorb
item: Leftovers / Lum Berry
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
ivs: 30 HP / 30 Atk / 30 Def / 30 SpA / 30 SpD
nature: Timid

Moves
========
  • Nasty Plot boosts Thundurus-T's already high Special Attack even higher and transforms it into a huge threat for stall teams because of its ability to 2HKO at worst pretty much all stall team members, even Chansey.
  • Thunderbolt is an extremely powerful STAB move with a nifty chance to paralyze, not many things can switch into it at +2.
  • Hidden Power Flying is nice for Electric-type resists, namely Grass-types, especially Mega Venusaur.
  • Hidden Power Ice is a usable option for nice BoltBeam coverage, but Hidden Power Flying it's pretty much everything relevant harder. Such Pokemon include Mega Venusaur and the aforementioned Quagsire.
  • Focus Blasts rounds off coverage by hitting everything in OU at least neutrally, and can even 2HKO Chansey at +2, a feat that not many special attackers can claim.
  • Focus Blast hits otherwise counters like Kyurem-B and Excadrill as well.
  • Grass Knot is a usable option to hit Hippowdown especially hard, but +2 Focus Blast is often enough to give it trouble.
Set Details
========
  • Special Attack is maximized to its highest potential to ensure Thundurus-T can be as strong as possible.
  • Running Max Speed and a Timid nature is wonderful to outspeed the ever-common base 100s such as Charizard Y.
  • A Modest nature could be used for a boost in power; however, this is generally unadvised because no notable KOes are made by running a Modest nature over a Timid.
  • The IVs listed are to keep Thundurus-T's stats high in general while still having Hidden Power Flying and not missing out on too much. Running 30 in five stats may appear unappealing; however, the only other way to get to Hidden Power Flying is with 30 Speed IVs and having maximum Speed is far too important to pass up.
  • Running Leftovers is great for passive recovery and to help Thundurus-T recover help slowly to enable it to boost.
  • Lum Berry shields Thundurus-T once from a crippling Toxic, it is useful to note that when Lum Berry is used.
  • A Modest nature is chosen to maximize Special Attack, although a Timid nature can be run with full investment to outspeed base 100s, though the power drop by doing so is noticeable.
  • Running Life Orb is an option to boost power output a ton; however, Thundurus-T is worn down too quickly and Leftovers or Lum Berry is often better in the long run.
Usage Tips
========
  • Using Thundurus-T as an early- or mid-game wallbreaker is advised as it can wear down defensive cores.
  • Thundurus-T especially excels versus stall thanks to its ability to severely hurt almost every member; however, this is not the case for offensive teams. Offensive teams are often too fast-paced for Thundurus-T and it will often struggle to do much versus them.
  • Prediction is key, as not running Agility leaves Thundurus-T outsped by quite a bit and it doesn't enjoy switching into many hits, nor do most opponents enjoy switching into its boosted attacks.
  • Bringing in Thundurus-T from a slow U-turn or Volt Switch is advised because of Thundurus-T's lack of switch in opportunities.
  • Nasty Plot should not be used crazily, when an offensive check such as Latios or Greninja comes in, it's often best to either a.) attack on the switch or b.) switch out immediately.
  • Thundurus-T should plot out Choice Scarf users beforehand as well, as these can bring a halt to its sweep.
  • It should also be noted that thanks to Focus Blast's unreliability, it's often best to attempt to use its STAB moves before turning to Focus Blast because an untimely miss can be a waste of Thundurus-T.
Team Options
========
  • Entry hazards are useful for many Pokemon, but it really is important for Thundurus-T in particular. With just one layer of Spikes, Thundurus-T now always 2HKOes Chansey.
  • Azumarill stands out as an offensive partner thanks to the twos great synergy and Azumarill's ability to handle Greninja.
  • Similarly, Keldeo is great partner because it appreciates Mega Venusaur being removed and can break down Tyranitar and Chansey with much greater ease than Thundurus-T.
  • Pursuit support from the likes of Bisharp and Tyranitar are beneficial because this can remove Latias and Latios which could revenge kill otherwise.
  • Lucario + Thundurus-T is a powerful offensive core because of the two's synergy, Thundurus-T's ability to wear down usual checks like Mega Venusaur and Hippowdown, while Lucario wears down Kyurem-B so that Thundurus won't have to rely on using the shaky Focus Blast.
  • Mega Scizor can pivot Thundurus-T in with U-turn, has solid synergy, and can also use Defog to remove the hazards Thundurus-T does not appreciate.
Other Options
########
  • Choice Scarf sets are the most viable of all other options because Thundurus-T's nice 101 sets it above the other 100 scarfers.
  • Agility is great to boost Speed to high levels and threaten a bunch of the metagame with an already high Special Attack.
  • Double boosting is an interesting option because it works well versus both stall and HO; however, with the prominence of HO and the pressure put on it, it's hard to setup. Do note that setting up both is highly unlikely because the opponent will most likely not let Thundurus-T get there ever, unless they make horrible plays.
  • Knock Off is great for removing Chansey's Eviolites and Hippowdown's Leftovers to make it easier to break through.
  • Knock Off also hits Latias + Latios on the switch (and hard)
  • U-turn keeps up momentum, it's generally preferred over Volt Switch because it can be used on incoming Ground-types and still keep momentum.
  • Grass Knot is nice to hit Hippowdown and Quagsire more reliably than by using Focus Blast, but has pretty bad coverage otherwise.
  • Substitute can be run to ease set up and shield against Toxic, but finding a moveslot to fit it in is hard.
  • Taunt is another option to be an even larger annoyance to stall by preventing phasing or recovery of all stall Pokemon.
Checks & Counters
########
  • **Bulkier Special Walls**: When Nasty Plot is not run, Pokemon like Hippowdon and Chansey can wall Thundurus-T quite easily.
  • **Revenge Killing**: Thundurus-T is as prone to revenge killing as many other boosters, Scarf Landorus-T can use Stone Edge, Scarf Tyranitar outspeeds with Stone Edge. Similarly, Greninja can revenge kill with Ice Beam and Latios / Latias with Draco Meteor.
  • **Offensive Pressure**: By having Thundurus-T pressed to setup, it can often be left somewhat weak. By keeping this up, Thundurus-T will not be able to setup and it will have a ton of issues; this is especially an issue against hyperoffense teams.
 
Last edited:
I know it's WIP, but I think it's better just to go max Speed on the set you posted imo

20 HP EVs doesn't exactly seem to help Thundurus-T outside of a mundane magic number (realistically, it won't help THAT much), and going max Speed allows it some chance of heavily hitting neutral-natured Mega Gardevoir, Charizard-Y, Charizard-X, and Manaphy (being an Electric-type and not at least outrunning Modest Manaphy kinda fuckin sux). If it's relevant, Thundurus-T can also run an IV spread of 30/30/30/30/30/31; idk how useful this actually is in comparison to the one up there, but it preserves Speed if that's desirable. I'd also like to hear reasons on why Timid shouldn't be used outside of "muh 145 SpA."
 
AccidentalGreed Agreeing with just a simple 252/252, also, the only relevant thing that Modest does is 2HKO Chansey without relying on hazards n_n, other than that not much, fixed.
 
I agree with max max timid. speed is important for what alexwolf mentioned. Azumarill is a fine partner as it can come in on all of greninja's moves aimed at thundy. Bisharp/any pursuit trapper are also nice for getting rid of the lati twins who can come in and revenge kill. pokemon like mega gyarados appreciate amoongus/venusaur being gone. Lucario is a nice offensive partner being able to beat what this mon doesnt and vice versa.
 
AccidentalGreed , aim , implemented. I'm a bit iffy on both the previous Agility set and the double booster set. From my experiences with all sets only Nasty Plot really stood it out; although, these two sets do differentiate from Thundurus-I. Thoughts? Along with QC team of course~!
 
Is there any particular reason as to why is an IV spread of 30 SpA / 30 SpD / 30 Spe used instead of 30 HP / 30 Atk / 30 Def / 30 SpA / 30 SpD? In my eyes, it seems more worthwhile to try to get the Speed ties given by a Speed IV of 31 in sake of 1 less hp, atk, and def. I only bring this up because it seems as though you've gone out of your way to change it from Showdown's default to gain extra points in the mentioned stats (and therefore used a lower Speed IV than normal).

(keep in mind that if the one i brought up is used, the IV section can just be deleted completely because it's assumed)

edit: to clarify, losing out on the speed IV means that you will always by outsped by Lando-I, which shares a base Speed stat of 101.
 
Last edited:
Hmm, then when running the spread of 30s across, running 4 HP is more beneficial, yes. It's a bit dependant on running the certain IVs, but I do think the 30s across is best. Implemented.
 
unfixable said:
Nasty Plot
########
name: Nasty Plot
move 1: Nasty Plot
move 2: Thunderbolt
move 3: Hidden Power Flying
move 4: Focus Blast
ability: Volt Absorb
item: Leftovers / Lum Berry
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
ivs: 30 HP / 30 Atk / 30 Def / 30 SpA / 30 SpD
nature: Timid
Click to expand...

30 Attack EVs should be 0 Attack EVs to minimize Foul Play damage while still having the right IVs for Hidden Power Flying.
 
QC APPROVED 2/3

Great job, just make sure to stress that Thundurus-T should be used over Thundurus on teams that need insurance against Electric-types and Volt-turn teams, as Thundurus is a decent check to Magnezone and Thundurus itself.
 
is there already a double dance set somewhere? i kno you mentioned it but, that seems cooler to beat offense instead of just balance and stall. this set looks fine anyways, it's the best NP 3 atk can be.

3/3
 
hi
Overview
########

Thundurus-T has the second highest Special Attack stat of all non-Uber Electric- and Flying types, only being surpassed by Mega Charizard Y and Mega Ampharos. However, Thundurus-T has the highest Special Attack stat of all non-Mega Pokemon. Thundurus-T's Special Attack stat is one of the highest in OU, only being surpassed by Mega Charizard Y and Mega Ampharos' Special Attack stat. This high Special Attack is backed up by its nice Speed tier of 101, allowing it to outspeed the terribly crowded many Pokemon with base 100 Speed tier. With two great boosting moves in Agility and Nasty Plot, Thundurus-T is certainly a force to contend with. At +2 Special Attack, Thundurus-T has zero no safe switch ins switch-ins; Chansey is even 2HKOed even Chansey is 2HKOed by it. Thanks to Thundurus-T's large movepool, predicting what set it is running is quite difficult. Thundurus-T's typing provides it with resistances or neutrality to almost all forms of priority, including Aqua Jet, Mach Punch, Bullet Punch, Extreme Speed, and Sucker Punch. Volt Absorb isn't quite as useful as Prankster, but it does provide Thundurus-T with a source of recovery and comes with an immunity; it also enables it to check opposing Electric-types such as Magnezone or and Thundurus-I. However, Thundurus-T suffers huge competition from its other forme, Thundurus-I, which has a better Speed stat and two much better and less situational abilities. Thundurus-T still suffers from a lack of bulk, this which is especially noticeable with its Stealth Rock weakness. Thundurus-T has an extremely large case of four-moveslot syndrome, not being able to fit all the coverage or boosting options it would like to. Its coverage moves are also quite lacking, with the only two being Hidden Power and the unreliable Focus Blast.

Nasty Plot
########
name: Nasty Plot
move 1: Nasty Plot
move 2: Thunderbolt
move 3: Hidden Power Flying
move 4: Focus Blast
ability: Volt Absorb
item: Leftovers / Lum Berry
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
ivs: 30 HP / 30 Atk / 30 Def / 30 SpA / 30 SpD
nature: Timid

Moves
========

Nasty Plot boosts Thundurus-T's already high Special Attack even higher and transforms it into a huge threat for stall teams because of its ability to 2HKO at worst pretty much all stall team members Pokemon commonly used on stall teams, even such as Chansey. Thunderbolt is an extremely powerful STAB move with a nifty chance to paralyze, not many things can switch into it at +2 hitting many Pokemon extremely hard at +2. Hidden Power Flying is nice for hitting Pokemon that are resistant to Electric-type attacks Electric-type resists, namely particularly Grass-types such as Mega Venusaur. Alternatively, Hidden Power Ice is a usable option to form a BoltBeam combination with Thunderbolt, but this is unadvised but is not very useful because Hidden Power Flying hits everything relevant harder; this includes, such as Mega Venusaur and Quagsire. Focus Blast rounds off Thundurus-T's coverage by hitting Kyurem-B and Excadrill, while also hitting, as well as nearly everything in OU, hard. Grass Knot is a usable option to nail Hippowdown, but +2 Focus Blast will give it trouble anyways.

Set Details
========

Investing in Special Attack is the chosen EV spread because it allows 252 Special Attack EVs allow Thundurus-T to make full use of its high Special Attack, while using maximum Speed investment and a Timid nature enable it to outspeed the crowded base 100 Speed tier. A Modest nature could be used for a boost in power, although it's unadvised imprudent to do so because no notable KOes are achieved by doing so. The IVs listed are to keep Thundurus-T's stats high in general while still having Hidden Power Flying and not missing out on too much. Running 30 in five stats may appear unappealing; the only other way to get to Hidden Power Flying is with 30 Speed IVs, but having maximum Speed is far too important to pass up, however. Running Leftovers enables Thundurus-T so to slowly recover health and possibly gain more chances to set up. and hopefully give it more chances to boost. A Lum Berry is also usable to give Thundurus-T a one-time save from being hit by Toxic. Life Orb is not a recommended item because it wears down Thundurus-T, which is already worn down very rapidly, too quickly and it's already worn down quite quickly.

Usage Tips
========

Using Thundurus-T as an early- or mid-game wallbreaker is advised, as it can wear down defensive cores for teammates to have an easier time sweeping late-game. Thundurus-T especially excels versus against stall thanks to its ability to severely damage almost every member every Pokemon usually found in stall teams; however, this is not the case for offensive teams. Offensive teams are often too fast-paced for Thundurus-T, and it will often struggle to do much versus them. Bringing in Thundurus-T via a slow U-turn or Volt Switch is greatly appreciated because Thundurus-T it lacks many switch in switch-in opportunities. Prediction plays a large part in how Thundurus-T is used; usually, just attacking as offensive checks is best because it can wear them down for a later time. One key example of this is when to use Nasty Plot; using the move while an offensive check is still in the match is not advised,; rather, than that Thundurus-T is better simply switching out or attacking on the switch. Focus Blast's unreliability can be a bit of a disappointment at times, as an untimely miss can cost Thundurus-T's life cause Thundurus-T to be KOed, so always be wary when using it.

Team Options
========

Entry hazard support is useful for all offensive Pokemon, but Thundurus-T really stands out as a Pokemon who especially needs it. With Entry hazard support is very useful; for example, with just one layer of Spikes, Thundurus-T secures the 2HKO on Chansey. Azumarill stands out as an offensive partner because it shares great synergy with Thundurus-T and is able to check Greninja. Similarly, Keldeo can break down Chansey and Tyranitar even more with ease and also enjoys Thundurus-T's ability to take on Mega Venusaur. Pursuit support from the likes of Bisharp and Tyranitar is beneficial because it can remove Latias and Latios, which could which otherwise can revenge kill Thundurus-T otherwise. Lucario forms a powerful offensive core because of the two's synergy and ability to wear down each other's checks for one or the other to sweep late-game. Finally, Mega Scizor can pivot Thundurus-T in with U-turn and can also use Defog to remove the hazards Thundurus-T is not fond of.

Other Options
########

Choice Scarf is the primary option when not running this the set, as thanks to Thundurus-T's nice Speed stat of 101, it can outspeed all base 100 Choice Scarf users thanks to its base 101 Speed, Thundurus-T can outspeed all base 100 Speed Choice Scarf users. Agility can be used in a similar vein and works well because it allows the freedom of switching moves Thundurus-T. Double boosting could be used with A set using both Agility and Nasty Plot can be used, but hyperoffense hyper offense teams apply too much pressure and Thundurus-T will almost never be able to boost both of its stats. Knock Off could see use for removing Chansey's Eviolite and Hippowdon's Leftovers to make these threats easier for it to break through; Knock Off also has the added benefit of hitting both Latios and Latias on the switch super effectively. U-turn keeps up momentum and is preferred over Volt Switch because it can be used on potential Ground-type switch ins. Substitute is an intriguing option as a shield against Toxic, but four-moveslot syndrome makes it hard for Thundurus-T to give up coverage. Taunt could be used as a larger annoyance to stall teams by preventing recovery or entry hazard setting.

Checks & Counters
########

**Bulkier Special Walls**: When Nasty Plot is not run, Pokemon like Hippowdon and Chansey can wall Thundurus-T quite easily because it just lacks the raw power to break through them.

**Revenge Killing**: Thundurus-T is as prone to revenge killing as many other boosters, Scarf Landorus-T can use Stone Edge, Scarf Tyranitar outspeeds with Stone Edge, both of these moves will KO it. Like other setup sweepers, Thundurus-T is very vulnerable to revenge killing; for example, Choice Scarf Landorus-T and Tyranitar can outspeed and KO it with Stone Edge. Similarly, Greninja can revenge kill with Ice Beam as can Latias and Latios with Draco Meteor; however, the latter three cannot switch directly into Thundurus-T.

**Offensive Pressure**: By leaving Thundurus-T with little room to setup set up, it can often be left somewhat weak it cannot boost and so is left weak. This is especially noticeable against hyperoffense hyper offense teams, where Thundurus-T really struggles with which Thundurus-T struggles with.
GP 1/2
 
Last edited:
Alfalfa I'm p sure that it's not necessary because it's a tiny subjective change and in the long run doesn't have a super great impact. Will do if someone on GP would like me to, but this is true for all Special Attackers and I would rather leave it out.
 
unfixable said:
Alfalfa I'm p sure that it's not necessary because it's a tiny subjective change and in the long run doesn't have a super great impact. Will do if someone on GP would like me to, but this is true for all Special Attackers and I would rather leave it out.
Click to expand...

The thing is, you already need to change your attack EVs anyways to activate HP Flying. So there is not much point in refraining from dropping the attack IVs to begin with.
 
unfixable

REMOVE CHANGE COMMENTS

Overview
########

Thundurus-T's Special Attack stat is one of the highest in OU, only being surpassed by Mega Charizard Y and Mega Ampharos Special Attack stat. This high Special Attack is backed up by its Thundurus-T's nice Speed tier of 101, allowing it to outspeed the many Pokemon with base 100 Speed. With two great boosting moves in Agility and Nasty Plot, Thundurus-T is certainly a force to contend with. At +2 Special Attack, Thundurus-T has no safe switch-ins; even Chansey is 2HKOed by it. Thanks to Thundurus-T's large movepool, predicting what set it is running is quite difficult. I'm sure this is true, but there's only one set listed here. perhaps just reword this? Thundurus-T's typing provides it with resistances or neutrality to almost all forms of priority, including Aqua Jet, Mach Punch, Bullet Punch, Extreme Speed, and Sucker Punch. Volt Absorb isn't as useful as Prankster, but does provide Thundurus-T with a source of recovery and an immunity; it also enables it Thundurus-T to check opposing Electric-types such as Magnezone and Thundurus. However, Thundurus-T suffers huge competition from its other forme, Thundurus, which has a better Speed stat and two much better and less situational abilities. Thundurus-T still suffers from a lack of bulk, which is especially noticeable with its Stealth Rock weakness. Thundurus-T has an extremely large case of four-moveslot syndrome, not being able to fit all the coverage or boosting options it would like to. Its coverage moves are also quite lacking, with the only two being Hidden Power and the unreliable Focus Blast.

Nasty Plot
########
name: Nasty Plot
move 1: Nasty Plot
move 2: Thunderbolt
move 3: Hidden Power Flying
move 4: Focus Blast
ability: Volt Absorb
item: Leftovers / Lum Berry
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
ivs: 30 HP / 30 Atk / 30 Def / 30 SpA / 30 SpD
nature: Timid

Moves
========

Nasty Plot boosts Thundurus-T's already high Special Attack and transforms it into a huge threat for stall teams because of its ability to 2HKO at worst pretty much all Pokemon commonly used on stall teams, such as Chansey. Thunderbolt is an extremely powerful STAB move with a nifty chance to paralyze, (AC) hitting many Pokemon extremely hard at +2. Hidden Power Flying is nice for hitting Pokemon that are resistant to Electric-type attacks, particularly Grass-types such as Mega Venusaur. Alternatively, Hidden Power Ice is a usable option to form a pseudo-BoltBeam combination with Thunderbolt, but is not very useful because Hidden Power Flying hits everything relevant harder, such as Mega Venusaur and Quagsire. Focus Blast rounds off Thundurus-T's coverage by hitting Kyurem-B and Excadrill, as well as nearly everything in OU, hard. Grass Knot is a usable option to nail Hippowdon, but +2 Focus Blast will give it trouble anyway.

Set Details
========

252 Special Attack EVs allow Thundurus-T to make full use of its high Special Attack, while maximum Speed investment and a Timid nature enable it to outspeed the crowded base 100 Speed tier. A Modest nature could be used for a boost in power, although it's imprudent to do so because no notable KOs are achieved by doing so. The IVs listed are to keep Thundurus-T's stats high in general while still having Hidden Power Flying and not missing out on too much. Running 30 in five stats may might appear unappealing; the only other way to get to Hidden Power Flying is with 30 Speed IVs, but having maximum Speed is far too important to pass up. Leftovers enables Thundurus-T to slowly recover health and possibly gain more chances to set up. A Lum Berry is also usable to give Thundurus-T a one-time save from being hit by Toxic. Life Orb is not a recommended item because it wears down Thundurus-T, which is already worn down very rapidly, too quickly.

Usage Tips
========

Using Thundurus-T as an early- or mid-game wallbreaker is advised, as it can wear down defensive cores for teammates to have an easier time sweeping late-game. Thundurus-T especially excels against stall thanks to its ability to severely damage almost every Pokemon usually found in stall teams; however, this is not the case for offensive teams. Offensive teams are often too fast-paced for Thundurus-T, and it will often struggle to do much versus them. Bringing in Thundurus-T via a slow U-turn or Volt Switch is greatly appreciated because it lacks switch-in opportunities. Prediction plays a large part in how Thundurus-T is used. Usually, just attacking offensive checks is best because it can wear them down for a later time. One key example of this is when to use Nasty Plot; using the move while an offensive check is still in the match is not advised; rather, Thundurus-T is better simply switching out or attacking on the switch. Focus Blast's unreliability can be a bit of a disappointment at times, as an untimely miss can cause Thundurus-T to be KOed, so always be wary when using it.

Team Options
========

Entry hazard support is very useful. For example, with just one layer of Spikes, Thundurus-T secures the 2HKO on Chansey. Azumarill stands out as an offensive partner because it shares great synergy with Thundurus-T and is able to check Greninja. Similarly, Keldeo can break down Chansey and Tyranitar with ease and also enjoys Thundurus-T's ability to take on Mega Venusaur. Pursuit support from the likes of Bisharp and Tyranitar is beneficial because it can remove Latias and Latios, which otherwise can revenge kill Thundurus-T. Lucario forms a powerful offensive core because of the two's synergy and ability to wear down each other's checks for one or the other to sweep late-game. Finally, Mega Scizor can pivot Thundurus-T in with U-turn and can also use Defog to remove the hazards Thundurus-T is not fond of.

Other Options
########

Choice Scarf is the primary option when not running the set, as thanks to its base 101 Speed, Thundurus-T can outspeed all base 100 Speed Choice Scarf users. Agility can be used in a similar vein and works well because it allows Thundurus-T. A set using both Agility and Nasty Plot can be used, but hyper offense teams apply too much pressure and Thundurus-T will almost never be able to boost both of its stats. Knock Off could see use for removing Chansey's Eviolite and Hippowdon's Leftovers to make these threats easier for it to break through; Knock Off also has the added benefit of hitting both Latios and Latias super effectively. U-turn keeps up momentum and is preferred over Volt Switch because it can be used on potential Ground-type switch-ins. Substitute is an intriguing option as a shield against Toxic, but four-moveslot syndrome makes it hard for Thundurus-T to give up coverage. Taunt could be used as a larger annoyance to stall teams by preventing recovery or entry hazard setup setting.

Checks & Counters
########

**Bulkier Special Walls**: When Nasty Plot is not run, Pokemon like Hippowdon and Chansey can wall Thundurus-T quite easily because it just lacks the raw power to break through them.

**Revenge Killing**: Like other setup sweepers, Thundurus-T is very vulnerable to revenge killing. For example, Choice Scarf Landorus-T and Tyranitar can outspeed and KO it with Stone Edge. Similarly, Greninja can revenge kill with Ice Beam as can Latias and Latios with Draco Meteor; however, the latter three cannot switch directly into Thundurus-T.

**Offensive Pressure**: By leaving Thundurus-T with little room to set up, it cannot boost and so is left weak. This is especially noticeable against hyper offense teams, which Thundurus-T struggles with.
gato

2/2
 
Last edited:
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top