QC: mad0ka / Hilomilo / Nineage
GP: Fireflame479 / Omicron
[OVERVIEW]
Tirtouga's typing, abilities, and stats allow it to perform both offensive and defensive roles well in the Little Cup metagame. Its access to Shell Smash, two great abilities in Sturdy and Solid Rock, powerful STAB moves in Stone Edge and Waterfall, STAB priority in Aqua Jet, and good coverage options in Zen Headbutt and Earthquake can turn Tirtouga into a strong late-game sweeper, while its Rock / Water typing, great defensive ability Solid Rock, and high Defense stat also allows it to check many prominent threats in the metagame such as Doduo, Rufflet, Vullaby, Pawniard, and Ponyta. In addition, Tirtouga can also support its team with moves like Stealth Rock and Knock Off; however, Tirtouga's offensive sets struggle because of its very low Speed stat, meaning it can be revenge killed by faster Choice Scarf users such as Mienfoo and Chinchou. It's also weak to common priority moves in Mach Punch and Vacuum Wave, making it even easier to revenge kill after lowering its defenses with Shell Smash. On the defensive side, Tirtouga lacks recovery, meaning it is prone to being worn down. It also has a big weakness to common Grass-types such as Snivy, Pumpkaboo-XL, and Cottonee.
[SET]
name: Solid Rock Smash
move 1: Shell Smash
move 2: Waterfall / Aqua Jet
move 3: Stone Edge
move 4: Zen Headbutt / Earthquake
item: Eviolite
ability: Solid Rock
nature: Jolly / Adamant
evs: 4 HP / 132 Atk / 92 Def / 76 SpD / 180 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Shell Smash boosts Tirtouga's offensive stats to incredible levels, allowing it to easily clean late-game. Waterfall is Tirtouga's most reliable STAB move and has a chance to flinch the foe. It also hits Ground- and Fire-types such as Mudbray and Ponyta super effectively, both of which are OHKOed after a Shell Smash. Aqua Jet is a fairly powerful STAB priority move and allows Tirtouga to take out weakened threats and faster Choice Scarf users such as Mienfoo and Doduo, while also avoiding Sucker Punch and outspeeding other forms of priority such as Timburr's Mach Punch after a Shell Smash. Stone Edge is a STAB move that hits Flying-types super effectively, OHKOing Rufflet even without a boost and Vullaby after one Shell Smash, and it also deals significant damage to Grass-types such as Pumpkaboo-XL, which is 2HKOed after a boost, and Cottonee, which is OHKOed after a boost. Stealth Rock can be used over Stone Edge, as Eviolite makes Tirtouga bulky enough to set up Stealth Rock and come back in later to sweep; however, the lack of Stone Edge leaves Tirtouga more easily walled by Pokemon such as Pumpkaboo-XL and Vullaby. Zen Headbutt can be used to hit Fighting- and Poison-types super effectively, as it usually OHKOes bulky Mienfoo, Foongus, and Mareanie after a Shell Smash and Stealth Rock damage, and Timburr after a Shell Smash and a bit of prior damage, as long as Tirtouga has an Adamant nature. Earthquake is an option to hit Pawniard, Chinchou, and Mareanie super effectively, OHKOing all of them after a Shell Smash.
Set Details
========
Thanks to Solid Rock, Tirtouga can set up on some Pokemon that hit it super effectively like Mienfoo and physical Croagunk variants, while also allowing it to take certain priority moves like Mach Punch better. The given defensive investment along with with Solid Rock and Eviolite maximizes Tirtouga's bulk while sacrificing negligible power, especially after a boost. In particular, it usually allows Tirtouga to avoid the 2HKO from Croagunk's Vacuum Wave. 180 Speed EVs give Tirtouga 11 Speed, allowing it to outspeed the entire unboosted metagame after a Shell Smash. It also allows Tirtouga to outspeed 14 Speed Choice Scarf users such as Mudbray and Modest Magnemite, while Speed tying with 15 Speed Choice Scarf users like Timid Magnemite and Adamant Bunnelby after a boost. 132 Attack EVs significantly increase Tirtouga's Attack, making it deal as much damage as possible. A Jolly nature can be used to outspeed 14 and 15 Speed Choice Scarf users and Speed tie with 16 Speed Choice Scarf users after a Shell Smash. An Adamant nature can be used to OHKO certain Fighting- and Poison-types such as bulky Mienfoo, Foongus, and Mareanie after Stealth Rock damage and a Shell Smash boost with Zen Headbutt, but these OHKOs can also be secured if Tirtouga's team can use Knock Off to remove the Eviolites of the aforementioned Pokemon.
Usage Tips
========
Early-and mid-game, this Tirtouga set can be used to check Fire- and Flying-types, as its good bulk allows it to retain enough HP to attempt a late-game sweep. Still, you should focus on eventually setting up a Shell Smash. In addition to Fire- and Flying-types, this Tirtouga set can also set up on some traditional Tirtouga checks, such as Mienfoo and physical attacking Croagunk, thanks to Solid Rock. However, this is usually not recommended, as Tirtouga will still take significant damage from them, making it easier to be revenge killed by fast Choice Scarf users and priority users. Before setting up, opposing priority users such as Timburr and Pawniard should be removed, as they can easily stop Tirtouga's sweep. Despite Solid Rock, Tirtouga still has to be very careful of Grass-type moves.
Team Options
========
This Tirtouga set really appreciates Memento support, as it will not take much damage on the turn it sets up thanks to the offensive drops from Memento and its good bulk. Due to the lack of recovery on this set Memento support might keep it out of range of certain priority moves, such as Croagunk's Vacuum Wave. Cottonee is especially good as a Memento user, as it also has excellent defensive synergy with Tirtouga. Z-Memento also synergizes nicely with this Tirtouga, as it allows it to play much more freely early-game and makes it less susceptibleto being worn down, before being healed back up to full HP and attempting a sweep late-game. Diglett and Alolan Grimer can also provide Tirtouga with Memento support, though they don't synergize with Tirtouga as well. Aurora Veil support from Alolan Vulpix is appreciated for similar reasons to Memento support, though it persists even after an opponent switches out. Unfortunately the hail that Alolan Vulpix sets up can wear down Tirtouga somewhat. Drilbur is also a good partner for Tirtouga, as it can take on the Electric-types that threaten Tirtouga, set up Stealth Rock to help secure crucial KOs for Tirtouga, and remove entry hazards to improve Tirtouga's longevity. Flying-types such as Vullaby, Doduo, and Rufflet help Tirtouga by dealing with Grass- and Fighting-types. They can also carry coverage to hit Ferroseed, which completely walls Tirtouga. Another powerful Water-type such as Staryu or Corphish can synergize offensively with Tirtouga, as the two can weaken each other's checks, such as Ferroseed or Pumpkaboo-XL, allowing for a potential sweep by one of them. Staryu can also remove entry hazards for Tirtouga, increasing its longevity. Knock Off users work very well with this set, as they can remove Eviolites from defensive Pokemon, helping Tirtouga secure crucial KOs, especially on Fighting- and Poison-types such as bulky Mienfoo, Foongus, and Mareanie. For this reason, Pawniard works well to lure in Fighting-types and use Knock Off to remove their item, while Fighting-types such as Mienfoo and Timburr can lure in the aforementioned Poison-types. Fire-types such as Ponyta are also very useful, since they can check Grass-types for Tirtouga and have a much easier time breaking through Ferroseed than Flying-types do.
[SET]
name: Defensive
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Scald
move 3: Stone Edge
move 4: Knock Off
item: Eviolite
ability: Solid Rock
nature: Sassy
evs: 84 HP / 252 Def / 12 SpA / 156 SpD
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Stealth Rock whittles down foes over time and can break Sturdy, and thanks to Tirtouga's excellent bulk in combination with Solid Rock, Tirtouga can set it up reliably. Scald is used despite coming off of Tirtouga's weaker Special Attack because it can potentially cripple physical attackers that could threaten it, such as Mienfoo and Mudbray, with a burn. Aqua Jet can also be used, as the priority it provides can be useful in picking off weakened threats, though it is fairly weak. Stone Edge is Tirtouga's most powerful STAB move and heavily damages the Flying- and Fire-types it checks, such as Vullaby and Ponyta, 2HKOing both of them. Knock Off provides excellent utility in removing a foe's item, crippling defensive and offensive Pokemon alike.
Set Details
========
Thanks to Eviolite, Solid Rock, and the defensive investment, Tirtouga can take a multitude of powerful attacks; for example, Tirtouga can usually avoid the 3HKO from Vullaby's Dark Pulse and the 2HKO from Life Orb Doduo's Jump Kick. The remaining EVs are put into Special Attack to slightly raise Scald's damage. A Sassy nature is used in order to increase Tirtouga's Special Defense while not lowering the damage of any of its attacks. Tirtouga doesn't mind the Speed drop, since it is not very fast anyway.
Usage Tips
========
Since this set lacks recovery of any kind, always be wary of being worn down. As such, try to keep Tirtouga healthy in order to check the Pokemon it needs to, such as Doduo and Vullaby. If the opponent lacks a Pokemon that you need Tirtouga for, this set can focus on setting up Stealth Rock as much as possible. Against such an opponent, leading with Tirtouga in order to set up Stealth Rock as soon as possible is a good option. When using this set, it's possible to bluff a Shell Smash set and surprise a switch-in with Scald or Knock Off.
Team Options
========
Bulky Grass-types such as Foongus, Ferroseed, and Cottonee have excellent defensive synergy with Tirtouga, as they can switch into Grass-, and in Foongus's and Cottonee's case, Fighting-types for Tirtouga, while in return, Tirtouga can switch into the Fire- and Flying-types they fear. Ferroseed can also stack Spikes, which synergizes nicely with Tirtouga's Stealth Rock, while Cottonee can help bluff a Shell Smash set, as it often provides Memento support for such sets. Spritzee is a great partner, as it deals with the Fighting-types that Tirtouga fears and can also pass Wishes to increase Tirtouga's longevity. Flying- and Poison-types such as Vullaby, Croagunk, and Foongus can take on the Grass- and Fighting-types that threaten Tirtouga. In return, Tirtouga can deal with Rock-types for the Flying-types. Rapid Spin users such as Staryu and Drilbur can remove entry hazards, which greatly increases Tirtouga's longevity, as it is very easily worn down. Defog users like Vullaby can also be used, but they also remove Tirtouga's Stealth Rock, so they are usually not recommended. Fire-types like Ponyta can be good teammates for Tirtouga as well, as they can check Grass- and Steel-types such as Cottonee and Pawniard.
[SET]
name: Sturdy Smash
move 1: Shell Smash
move 2: Waterfall / Aqua Jet
move 3: Stone Edge
move 4: Zen Headbutt / Earthquake
item: Berry Juice
ability: Sturdy
nature: Jolly
evs: 212 Atk / 92 Def / 180 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Shell Smash boosts Tirtouga's offensive stats to monstrous levels, allowing it to easily clean late-game. Waterfall is Tirtouga's most reliable STAB move and has a nice chance to flinch. It also hits Ground- and Fire-types such as Mudbray and Ponyta super effectively, OHKOing both of them after a Shell Smash boost. Aqua Jet is a STAB priority move that can deal significant damage after a Shell Smash and allows Tirtouga to take out faster Choice Scarf users, such as Mienfoo and Doduo, after a bit of prior damage, in addition to avoiding Sucker Punch and outspeeding other forms of priority such as Timburr's Mach Punch after a Shell Smash. It can also be very useful to pick off weakened threats. Stone Edge is Tirtouga's secondary STAB move that hits Flying-types super effectively, OHKOing Rufflet without a boost and Vullaby after one Shell Smash, while also dealing significant damage to Grass-types such as Pumpkaboo-XL, which is 2HKOed after a Shell Smash, and Cottonee, which is usually OHKOed after a Shell Smash. Zen Headbutt hits Fighting- and Poison-types super effectively, usually OHKOing bulky Mienfoo, Foongus, and Mareanie after a Shell Smash and Stealth Rock damage, and Timburr after a Shell Smash and a bit of prior damage. Earthquake hits Pawniard, Chinchou, and Mareanie super effectively, OHKOing all of them after a Shell Smash.
Set Details
========
The combination of Sturdy and Berry Juice guarantees Tirtouga a chance to set up a Shell Smash and sweep. The Speed EVs along with a Jolly nature allow Tirtouga to outspeed 14 and 15 Speed Choice Scarf users such as Scraggy and Magnemite and Speed tie with 16 Speed Choice Scarf users, such as Pawniard, after a Shell Smash. The Attack EVs maximize Tirtouga's Attack, allowing it to deal as much damage as possible. The remaining EVs are put into Defense to bolster its already impressive physical bulk.
Usage Tips
========
Tirtouga should mainly be used late-game to set up a Shell Smash and clean up a weakened team when its counters have been removed. Always try to remain at full HP in order to activate Sturdy, as it will give Tirtouga a much easier time setting up. This can be achieved by removing entry hazards and bringing Tirtouga in on free switches through use of a slow Volt Switch or U-turn. If Sturdy is intact and Tirtouga is still holding its Berry Juice, it can set up on anything that it can OHKO after a boost, such as Vullaby, Mudbray, and Chinchou, or on passive Pokemon, such as Bronzor and Spritzee. Usually, it will take one hit while setting up, which will make it consume its Berry Juice to heal it back up to full HP while gaining a Shell Smash boost. Since Tirtouga has a big weakness to Grass-type moves, it has to be wary of Grass-type coverage on Pokemon such as Abra and Ponyta if its Sturdy is broken. If Tirtouga has set up Shell Smash without losing its Sturdy or its Berry Juice, it can opt to go for a second Shell Smash, as this will usually secure the sweep, since Tirtouga will then outspeed even the fastest Choice Scarf users and be able to OHKO even some of the bulkiest Pokemon in the metagame, such as Foongus. Always make sure priority users such as Timburr and Pawniard are removed before setting up a Shell Smash, as they can relatively easily stop Tirtouga's sweep.
Team Options
========
Rapid Spin users such as Staryu and Drilbur or Defog users such as Vullaby are mandatory in order to preserve Tirtouga's Sturdy. Drilbur can also help deal with Tirtouga's Electric-type weakness and set up Stealth Rock, which can help Tirtouga secure crucial KOs, while Vullaby can cripple defensive Pokemon by removing their Eviolite with Knock Off. Flying-types such as Doduo, Vullaby, and Rufflet and Fire-types such as Ponyta and Larvesta help break through bulky Grass-types such as Ferroseed and Foongus for Tirtouga. Flying-types also help Tirtouga deal with Fighting-types. Knock Off users synergize very well with Tirtouga, as they can remove Eviolites, which gives Tirtouga an easier time cleaning late-game. In particular, Pawniard can lure in and use Knock Off on Timburr, removing its Eviolite and wearing it down, potentially putting it in Aqua Jet range for Tirtouga, while Fighting-types such as Mienfoo and Timburr can lure in and remove Eviolites from Foongus, Cottonee, Mareanie, and Spritzee, allowing Tirtouga to beat them after a Shell Smash boost. Spikes support from Pokemon such as Ferroseed can be useful for Tirtouga, as after three layers of Spikes, Pumpkaboo-XL is OHKOed by Stone Edge after a Shell Smash and a bit of prior damage. Checks to Pawniard like Timburr and Mienfoo greatly aid Tirtouga, as Pawniard is a very big threat thanks to its access to Knock Off to remove Berry Juice and Sucker Punch to pick off a boosted Tirtouga. Pokemon that can deal with other common priority users like Timburr and Croagunk can be very useful—examples include Focus Sash Abra, Mudbray, and Foongus.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
Rest can be used on the defensive set in order to give Tirtouga a form of recovery, but it will make Tirtouga lose out on important power or utility and is thus generally not worth using. Similarly, Berry Juice is an option over Eviolite on the defensive set, but the added bulk from Eviolite is usually more beneficial, as it avoids many important KOs because of that added bulk. Rock Slide can be used on the defensive set for more reliable damage, but it loses out on power and usually misses out on the chance to induce flinch anyway due to Tirtouga's low Speed. A special attacking Shell Smash set with Hydro Pump, Ice Beam, and Earth Power can be used, but it is outclassed by Omanyte due to its much higher Special Attack and higher Speed. Hidden Power Fire can be used on Shell Smash sets to significantly damage Ferroseed after a boost, but it misses the OHKO on it without significant investment in Special Attack, has limited use outside of hitting Ferroseed, and forces Tirtouga to forgo other coverage.
Checks and Counters
===================
**Grass-types**: Bulky Grass-types such as Ferroseed, Foongus, and Pumpkaboo-XL are able to take any of Tirtouga's moves even after a Shell Smash and can OHKO it back with a 4x super effective STAB move. Ferroseed completely walls Tirtouga, as it resists both of its STAB moves, and Tirtouga does not have a coverage move to hit it with.
**Fighting-types**: Timburr, Mienfoo, Pancham, and Croagunk all resist Tirtouga's Stone Edge and significantly threaten it with a super effective move. Timburr appreciates being burned by Scald from defensive Tirtouga thanks to Guts, Choice Scarf Mienfoo outspeeds Tirtouga even after a Shell Smash, Pancham can bypass Sturdy and Solid Rock with Mold Breaker, and Croagunk is immune to Tirtouga's Water-type moves. Timburr and Croagunk can also significantly threaten Tirtouga with their priority moves.
**Choice Scarf Users**: Faster Choice Scarf users such as Mienfoo, Chinchou, and Doduo all outspeed Tirtouga even after a Shell Smash and can often deal significant damage or even OHKO it due to the defense drops from Shell Smash.
**Entry Hazards**: Sturdy variants of Tirtouga do not appreciate entry hazards, as they break Sturdy and can ruin Tirtouga's chance to set up. Solid Rock Tirtouga usually lacks recovery, meaning the residual damage entry hazards deal can whittle it down quickly.
GP: Fireflame479 / Omicron
[OVERVIEW]
Tirtouga's typing, abilities, and stats allow it to perform both offensive and defensive roles well in the Little Cup metagame. Its access to Shell Smash, two great abilities in Sturdy and Solid Rock, powerful STAB moves in Stone Edge and Waterfall, STAB priority in Aqua Jet, and good coverage options in Zen Headbutt and Earthquake can turn Tirtouga into a strong late-game sweeper, while its Rock / Water typing, great defensive ability Solid Rock, and high Defense stat also allows it to check many prominent threats in the metagame such as Doduo, Rufflet, Vullaby, Pawniard, and Ponyta. In addition, Tirtouga can also support its team with moves like Stealth Rock and Knock Off; however, Tirtouga's offensive sets struggle because of its very low Speed stat, meaning it can be revenge killed by faster Choice Scarf users such as Mienfoo and Chinchou. It's also weak to common priority moves in Mach Punch and Vacuum Wave, making it even easier to revenge kill after lowering its defenses with Shell Smash. On the defensive side, Tirtouga lacks recovery, meaning it is prone to being worn down. It also has a big weakness to common Grass-types such as Snivy, Pumpkaboo-XL, and Cottonee.
[SET]
name: Solid Rock Smash
move 1: Shell Smash
move 2: Waterfall / Aqua Jet
move 3: Stone Edge
move 4: Zen Headbutt / Earthquake
item: Eviolite
ability: Solid Rock
nature: Jolly / Adamant
evs: 4 HP / 132 Atk / 92 Def / 76 SpD / 180 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Shell Smash boosts Tirtouga's offensive stats to incredible levels, allowing it to easily clean late-game. Waterfall is Tirtouga's most reliable STAB move and has a chance to flinch the foe. It also hits Ground- and Fire-types such as Mudbray and Ponyta super effectively, both of which are OHKOed after a Shell Smash. Aqua Jet is a fairly powerful STAB priority move and allows Tirtouga to take out weakened threats and faster Choice Scarf users such as Mienfoo and Doduo, while also avoiding Sucker Punch and outspeeding other forms of priority such as Timburr's Mach Punch after a Shell Smash. Stone Edge is a STAB move that hits Flying-types super effectively, OHKOing Rufflet even without a boost and Vullaby after one Shell Smash, and it also deals significant damage to Grass-types such as Pumpkaboo-XL, which is 2HKOed after a boost, and Cottonee, which is OHKOed after a boost. Stealth Rock can be used over Stone Edge, as Eviolite makes Tirtouga bulky enough to set up Stealth Rock and come back in later to sweep; however, the lack of Stone Edge leaves Tirtouga more easily walled by Pokemon such as Pumpkaboo-XL and Vullaby. Zen Headbutt can be used to hit Fighting- and Poison-types super effectively, as it usually OHKOes bulky Mienfoo, Foongus, and Mareanie after a Shell Smash and Stealth Rock damage, and Timburr after a Shell Smash and a bit of prior damage, as long as Tirtouga has an Adamant nature. Earthquake is an option to hit Pawniard, Chinchou, and Mareanie super effectively, OHKOing all of them after a Shell Smash.
Set Details
========
Thanks to Solid Rock, Tirtouga can set up on some Pokemon that hit it super effectively like Mienfoo and physical Croagunk variants, while also allowing it to take certain priority moves like Mach Punch better. The given defensive investment along with with Solid Rock and Eviolite maximizes Tirtouga's bulk while sacrificing negligible power, especially after a boost. In particular, it usually allows Tirtouga to avoid the 2HKO from Croagunk's Vacuum Wave. 180 Speed EVs give Tirtouga 11 Speed, allowing it to outspeed the entire unboosted metagame after a Shell Smash. It also allows Tirtouga to outspeed 14 Speed Choice Scarf users such as Mudbray and Modest Magnemite, while Speed tying with 15 Speed Choice Scarf users like Timid Magnemite and Adamant Bunnelby after a boost. 132 Attack EVs significantly increase Tirtouga's Attack, making it deal as much damage as possible. A Jolly nature can be used to outspeed 14 and 15 Speed Choice Scarf users and Speed tie with 16 Speed Choice Scarf users after a Shell Smash. An Adamant nature can be used to OHKO certain Fighting- and Poison-types such as bulky Mienfoo, Foongus, and Mareanie after Stealth Rock damage and a Shell Smash boost with Zen Headbutt, but these OHKOs can also be secured if Tirtouga's team can use Knock Off to remove the Eviolites of the aforementioned Pokemon.
Usage Tips
========
Early-and mid-game, this Tirtouga set can be used to check Fire- and Flying-types, as its good bulk allows it to retain enough HP to attempt a late-game sweep. Still, you should focus on eventually setting up a Shell Smash. In addition to Fire- and Flying-types, this Tirtouga set can also set up on some traditional Tirtouga checks, such as Mienfoo and physical attacking Croagunk, thanks to Solid Rock. However, this is usually not recommended, as Tirtouga will still take significant damage from them, making it easier to be revenge killed by fast Choice Scarf users and priority users. Before setting up, opposing priority users such as Timburr and Pawniard should be removed, as they can easily stop Tirtouga's sweep. Despite Solid Rock, Tirtouga still has to be very careful of Grass-type moves.
Team Options
========
This Tirtouga set really appreciates Memento support, as it will not take much damage on the turn it sets up thanks to the offensive drops from Memento and its good bulk. Due to the lack of recovery on this set Memento support might keep it out of range of certain priority moves, such as Croagunk's Vacuum Wave. Cottonee is especially good as a Memento user, as it also has excellent defensive synergy with Tirtouga. Z-Memento also synergizes nicely with this Tirtouga, as it allows it to play much more freely early-game and makes it less susceptibleto being worn down, before being healed back up to full HP and attempting a sweep late-game. Diglett and Alolan Grimer can also provide Tirtouga with Memento support, though they don't synergize with Tirtouga as well. Aurora Veil support from Alolan Vulpix is appreciated for similar reasons to Memento support, though it persists even after an opponent switches out. Unfortunately the hail that Alolan Vulpix sets up can wear down Tirtouga somewhat. Drilbur is also a good partner for Tirtouga, as it can take on the Electric-types that threaten Tirtouga, set up Stealth Rock to help secure crucial KOs for Tirtouga, and remove entry hazards to improve Tirtouga's longevity. Flying-types such as Vullaby, Doduo, and Rufflet help Tirtouga by dealing with Grass- and Fighting-types. They can also carry coverage to hit Ferroseed, which completely walls Tirtouga. Another powerful Water-type such as Staryu or Corphish can synergize offensively with Tirtouga, as the two can weaken each other's checks, such as Ferroseed or Pumpkaboo-XL, allowing for a potential sweep by one of them. Staryu can also remove entry hazards for Tirtouga, increasing its longevity. Knock Off users work very well with this set, as they can remove Eviolites from defensive Pokemon, helping Tirtouga secure crucial KOs, especially on Fighting- and Poison-types such as bulky Mienfoo, Foongus, and Mareanie. For this reason, Pawniard works well to lure in Fighting-types and use Knock Off to remove their item, while Fighting-types such as Mienfoo and Timburr can lure in the aforementioned Poison-types. Fire-types such as Ponyta are also very useful, since they can check Grass-types for Tirtouga and have a much easier time breaking through Ferroseed than Flying-types do.
[SET]
name: Defensive
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Scald
move 3: Stone Edge
move 4: Knock Off
item: Eviolite
ability: Solid Rock
nature: Sassy
evs: 84 HP / 252 Def / 12 SpA / 156 SpD
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Stealth Rock whittles down foes over time and can break Sturdy, and thanks to Tirtouga's excellent bulk in combination with Solid Rock, Tirtouga can set it up reliably. Scald is used despite coming off of Tirtouga's weaker Special Attack because it can potentially cripple physical attackers that could threaten it, such as Mienfoo and Mudbray, with a burn. Aqua Jet can also be used, as the priority it provides can be useful in picking off weakened threats, though it is fairly weak. Stone Edge is Tirtouga's most powerful STAB move and heavily damages the Flying- and Fire-types it checks, such as Vullaby and Ponyta, 2HKOing both of them. Knock Off provides excellent utility in removing a foe's item, crippling defensive and offensive Pokemon alike.
Set Details
========
Thanks to Eviolite, Solid Rock, and the defensive investment, Tirtouga can take a multitude of powerful attacks; for example, Tirtouga can usually avoid the 3HKO from Vullaby's Dark Pulse and the 2HKO from Life Orb Doduo's Jump Kick. The remaining EVs are put into Special Attack to slightly raise Scald's damage. A Sassy nature is used in order to increase Tirtouga's Special Defense while not lowering the damage of any of its attacks. Tirtouga doesn't mind the Speed drop, since it is not very fast anyway.
Usage Tips
========
Since this set lacks recovery of any kind, always be wary of being worn down. As such, try to keep Tirtouga healthy in order to check the Pokemon it needs to, such as Doduo and Vullaby. If the opponent lacks a Pokemon that you need Tirtouga for, this set can focus on setting up Stealth Rock as much as possible. Against such an opponent, leading with Tirtouga in order to set up Stealth Rock as soon as possible is a good option. When using this set, it's possible to bluff a Shell Smash set and surprise a switch-in with Scald or Knock Off.
Team Options
========
Bulky Grass-types such as Foongus, Ferroseed, and Cottonee have excellent defensive synergy with Tirtouga, as they can switch into Grass-, and in Foongus's and Cottonee's case, Fighting-types for Tirtouga, while in return, Tirtouga can switch into the Fire- and Flying-types they fear. Ferroseed can also stack Spikes, which synergizes nicely with Tirtouga's Stealth Rock, while Cottonee can help bluff a Shell Smash set, as it often provides Memento support for such sets. Spritzee is a great partner, as it deals with the Fighting-types that Tirtouga fears and can also pass Wishes to increase Tirtouga's longevity. Flying- and Poison-types such as Vullaby, Croagunk, and Foongus can take on the Grass- and Fighting-types that threaten Tirtouga. In return, Tirtouga can deal with Rock-types for the Flying-types. Rapid Spin users such as Staryu and Drilbur can remove entry hazards, which greatly increases Tirtouga's longevity, as it is very easily worn down. Defog users like Vullaby can also be used, but they also remove Tirtouga's Stealth Rock, so they are usually not recommended. Fire-types like Ponyta can be good teammates for Tirtouga as well, as they can check Grass- and Steel-types such as Cottonee and Pawniard.
[SET]
name: Sturdy Smash
move 1: Shell Smash
move 2: Waterfall / Aqua Jet
move 3: Stone Edge
move 4: Zen Headbutt / Earthquake
item: Berry Juice
ability: Sturdy
nature: Jolly
evs: 212 Atk / 92 Def / 180 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Shell Smash boosts Tirtouga's offensive stats to monstrous levels, allowing it to easily clean late-game. Waterfall is Tirtouga's most reliable STAB move and has a nice chance to flinch. It also hits Ground- and Fire-types such as Mudbray and Ponyta super effectively, OHKOing both of them after a Shell Smash boost. Aqua Jet is a STAB priority move that can deal significant damage after a Shell Smash and allows Tirtouga to take out faster Choice Scarf users, such as Mienfoo and Doduo, after a bit of prior damage, in addition to avoiding Sucker Punch and outspeeding other forms of priority such as Timburr's Mach Punch after a Shell Smash. It can also be very useful to pick off weakened threats. Stone Edge is Tirtouga's secondary STAB move that hits Flying-types super effectively, OHKOing Rufflet without a boost and Vullaby after one Shell Smash, while also dealing significant damage to Grass-types such as Pumpkaboo-XL, which is 2HKOed after a Shell Smash, and Cottonee, which is usually OHKOed after a Shell Smash. Zen Headbutt hits Fighting- and Poison-types super effectively, usually OHKOing bulky Mienfoo, Foongus, and Mareanie after a Shell Smash and Stealth Rock damage, and Timburr after a Shell Smash and a bit of prior damage. Earthquake hits Pawniard, Chinchou, and Mareanie super effectively, OHKOing all of them after a Shell Smash.
Set Details
========
The combination of Sturdy and Berry Juice guarantees Tirtouga a chance to set up a Shell Smash and sweep. The Speed EVs along with a Jolly nature allow Tirtouga to outspeed 14 and 15 Speed Choice Scarf users such as Scraggy and Magnemite and Speed tie with 16 Speed Choice Scarf users, such as Pawniard, after a Shell Smash. The Attack EVs maximize Tirtouga's Attack, allowing it to deal as much damage as possible. The remaining EVs are put into Defense to bolster its already impressive physical bulk.
Usage Tips
========
Tirtouga should mainly be used late-game to set up a Shell Smash and clean up a weakened team when its counters have been removed. Always try to remain at full HP in order to activate Sturdy, as it will give Tirtouga a much easier time setting up. This can be achieved by removing entry hazards and bringing Tirtouga in on free switches through use of a slow Volt Switch or U-turn. If Sturdy is intact and Tirtouga is still holding its Berry Juice, it can set up on anything that it can OHKO after a boost, such as Vullaby, Mudbray, and Chinchou, or on passive Pokemon, such as Bronzor and Spritzee. Usually, it will take one hit while setting up, which will make it consume its Berry Juice to heal it back up to full HP while gaining a Shell Smash boost. Since Tirtouga has a big weakness to Grass-type moves, it has to be wary of Grass-type coverage on Pokemon such as Abra and Ponyta if its Sturdy is broken. If Tirtouga has set up Shell Smash without losing its Sturdy or its Berry Juice, it can opt to go for a second Shell Smash, as this will usually secure the sweep, since Tirtouga will then outspeed even the fastest Choice Scarf users and be able to OHKO even some of the bulkiest Pokemon in the metagame, such as Foongus. Always make sure priority users such as Timburr and Pawniard are removed before setting up a Shell Smash, as they can relatively easily stop Tirtouga's sweep.
Team Options
========
Rapid Spin users such as Staryu and Drilbur or Defog users such as Vullaby are mandatory in order to preserve Tirtouga's Sturdy. Drilbur can also help deal with Tirtouga's Electric-type weakness and set up Stealth Rock, which can help Tirtouga secure crucial KOs, while Vullaby can cripple defensive Pokemon by removing their Eviolite with Knock Off. Flying-types such as Doduo, Vullaby, and Rufflet and Fire-types such as Ponyta and Larvesta help break through bulky Grass-types such as Ferroseed and Foongus for Tirtouga. Flying-types also help Tirtouga deal with Fighting-types. Knock Off users synergize very well with Tirtouga, as they can remove Eviolites, which gives Tirtouga an easier time cleaning late-game. In particular, Pawniard can lure in and use Knock Off on Timburr, removing its Eviolite and wearing it down, potentially putting it in Aqua Jet range for Tirtouga, while Fighting-types such as Mienfoo and Timburr can lure in and remove Eviolites from Foongus, Cottonee, Mareanie, and Spritzee, allowing Tirtouga to beat them after a Shell Smash boost. Spikes support from Pokemon such as Ferroseed can be useful for Tirtouga, as after three layers of Spikes, Pumpkaboo-XL is OHKOed by Stone Edge after a Shell Smash and a bit of prior damage. Checks to Pawniard like Timburr and Mienfoo greatly aid Tirtouga, as Pawniard is a very big threat thanks to its access to Knock Off to remove Berry Juice and Sucker Punch to pick off a boosted Tirtouga. Pokemon that can deal with other common priority users like Timburr and Croagunk can be very useful—examples include Focus Sash Abra, Mudbray, and Foongus.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
Rest can be used on the defensive set in order to give Tirtouga a form of recovery, but it will make Tirtouga lose out on important power or utility and is thus generally not worth using. Similarly, Berry Juice is an option over Eviolite on the defensive set, but the added bulk from Eviolite is usually more beneficial, as it avoids many important KOs because of that added bulk. Rock Slide can be used on the defensive set for more reliable damage, but it loses out on power and usually misses out on the chance to induce flinch anyway due to Tirtouga's low Speed. A special attacking Shell Smash set with Hydro Pump, Ice Beam, and Earth Power can be used, but it is outclassed by Omanyte due to its much higher Special Attack and higher Speed. Hidden Power Fire can be used on Shell Smash sets to significantly damage Ferroseed after a boost, but it misses the OHKO on it without significant investment in Special Attack, has limited use outside of hitting Ferroseed, and forces Tirtouga to forgo other coverage.
Checks and Counters
===================
**Grass-types**: Bulky Grass-types such as Ferroseed, Foongus, and Pumpkaboo-XL are able to take any of Tirtouga's moves even after a Shell Smash and can OHKO it back with a 4x super effective STAB move. Ferroseed completely walls Tirtouga, as it resists both of its STAB moves, and Tirtouga does not have a coverage move to hit it with.
**Fighting-types**: Timburr, Mienfoo, Pancham, and Croagunk all resist Tirtouga's Stone Edge and significantly threaten it with a super effective move. Timburr appreciates being burned by Scald from defensive Tirtouga thanks to Guts, Choice Scarf Mienfoo outspeeds Tirtouga even after a Shell Smash, Pancham can bypass Sturdy and Solid Rock with Mold Breaker, and Croagunk is immune to Tirtouga's Water-type moves. Timburr and Croagunk can also significantly threaten Tirtouga with their priority moves.
**Choice Scarf Users**: Faster Choice Scarf users such as Mienfoo, Chinchou, and Doduo all outspeed Tirtouga even after a Shell Smash and can often deal significant damage or even OHKO it due to the defense drops from Shell Smash.
**Entry Hazards**: Sturdy variants of Tirtouga do not appreciate entry hazards, as they break Sturdy and can ruin Tirtouga's chance to set up. Solid Rock Tirtouga usually lacks recovery, meaning the residual damage entry hazards deal can whittle it down quickly.
Last edited:
