Resource National Dex Viability Rankings (Post Tera Ban)

[Moyashi]

-> B+
I'm actually gonna throw my hat into the ring and agree with a rise here. I wasn't super high on rain as a playstyle initially after Tera was banned, and it even felt pretty underwhelming at first. But I think now that the tier is more developed and strategies are being figured out, it's a decently strong archetype helped by being solidly robust defensively without giving up offensive pressure to be so. Of course a big reason for this being the case is Zapdos and how good it is right now (I'll touch on that in a second). Arch+Swamp+Zap is great offensive pressure that isn't easy to pivot around and it's great at breaking down the common bulky cores you see nowadays.

A -> A+
I know it just rose but it feels borderline A+ right now with how good it is. Its defensive profile is really relevant into a lot of stuff like Zamazenta, Great Tusk, Lando-T, Samurott-H, Urshifu-R, M-Lop, M-Scizor and more while offensively it's great and doesn't really thud into much outside Ting-Lu and Spdef Protect Gliscor, the former of which can be lured and crippled by Toxic, and whether it's off of rain with 3A+Roost and some combo of STABs and a coverage of choice, or the instant nuke of Flyinium Z sets. It's a great glue on various teams and it brings a lot to teambuilding right now.

A -> A+
Really good all around Poke that compresses a lot of roles and eases teambuilding, great speed control and a stopgap to many physical threats in the tier. Boots, IDBP, AoA, Z+Howl, it's capable of a surprising amount of sets even without Tera to let it cheese past checks.

-> A-/A
Pretty nice mon that is good at breaking open holes to let its teammates exploit. It needs a decent bit of support to sweep since there's a number of roadblocks to it, but it's alright. I'm personally bigger on HDB and CB sets which are nice progress makers, the latter also being a very potent wall breaker that sits at a great speed tier for how strong it is. While it doesn't have much defensive utility, it does notably check ZardY and other offensive fire types, and some electric moves.

 

[Kin+ak (✧∇✧)]

to B-
I am conscious People see lele as Mgarde but better. However, while they have the same typing, they are bloody different mons. Lele can crack Zs, is practically immune to prio and has stronger Psychic STABs. Mega Gardevoir is Faster, specially Bulkier, has much stronger fairy stab, and higher Raw Spa means its coverage hits stronger. It has Encore, Destiny Bond, Will-o and other pretty random utility, but also a wider coverage, and othr particularities: its preferred Fairy STAB, Hyper voice, goes through Substitute, its Fire Coverage, Mystical fire, hits much stronger than lele's hp fire, it has access to Psychic noise, access to moves like Koff or Vacuum Wave, making it a really separate mon from Lele. While running Lele means that either your Bolt or Gambit is incapacitated by the psychic terrain, or that you don't run them. if this lele is a Garde however, Rbolt nd KGB are cool to use. that's why I think Mega Gardevoir should be B-, because it is a better teammate to some top tier mons than lele.
Mgarde's Matchups are also pretty different to Lele's: Mgarde doesn't slap a fire move in its set and calls itself a msciz check, and is vulnerable to sucker punch. It doesn't soft check Rbolt and force it out, but has better odds of killing Ferro and tran,

I'll... find replays

to B
I'm only say B because Draga i on the way out. if pult stays (Massive L) then B+ easily. Fini is part of that INSANE core TingFiniDos, and it's a warcrime to have it in C+. Fini is a masssive stop to mons like toxa and a huge support for its own teams, making the grounded ones status immune. that's huge for Ting, but also useful for Phys attackers to deal with the birds and volc. Fini also has taunt, stored power, knock off, defog and trick, it has many sets, most of which are almost always putting in great work. Fini+Darktype checks nearly all draga sets depending on the dark. Misty Terrain halves the power of dragon moves, so mons like Rbolt are also much less threatening with fini in the team, Fini+Ground checking it very effectively.

to B+
Cornerpon rn absolutely loves to use its fighting covrage superpower. soft checks KGB and rmoon at max health, smacks ferro, this homie is a nightmare for bulky cores. TingFiniDos? yea it goes DOWN to Cornerpon. 110 speed tier also ain't too bad as it outspeeds this tier's spinners, and generally 1V1s. Also a pain to deal with on stall with the right positioning obv, Sine dozo does NOT like these nasty power whips. it's also Outspeed-OHKO'ing Yard, and ain't easily revenge Killable by Rbolt tclap, giving it an overall solid MU into sun in Mid to late game in my experience. besides, getting Lando with Ivy Cudgel on the switch costs nothing and Lando rapidly drops to that. Obv it's stopped by Dengo but it's not like offensive dengo won 100% of the time when you SD on the switch (shoutout to sturdy frfr) so Cornerpon is a Smacker of all time.

I support rise

 

[Spookcooke]

View attachment 718332 to B-
I am conscious People see lele as Mgarde but better. However, while they have the same typing, they are bloody different mons.

sure, lele and mgarde are kind of different, but how does mgarde compare to the other wallbreaker megas in the tier? Diancie-Mega has much better coverage and arguably better ability, while its speed tier zooms past mgardes at 110. mdia has much better physical bulk (50/110 vs 68/65 phys bulk) so mdia doesnt immediately faint to the next neutral phys atk. on the other hand, we have latios-mega, another wallbreaker mega that can be more comparable to mgarde. latios-mega has much higher bulk than mgarde, allowing it to actually check stuff, and roost is great for allowing it to stay healthy throughout the game. when compared as 3a wallbreakers, mlatios is obviously better with its wider array of offensive tools, with pivoting such as flip turn, nukes such as draco meteor, and luster purge that can completely wreck would-be checks with its ability to drop spdef (after a drop even heatran has a hard time staying in).

you are kind of right about how lele and mgarde can serve different roles, but its actually the other better choices in megas that mgarde just cant compete with.

 

[R8]

I am conscious People see lele as Mgarde but better. However, while they have the same typing, they are bloody different mons. Lele can crack Zs, is practically immune to prio and has stronger Psychic STABs. Mega Gardevoir is Faster, specially Bulkier, has much stronger fairy stab, and higher Raw Spa means its coverage hits stronger. It has Encore, Destiny Bond, Will-o and other pretty random utility, but also a wider coverage, and othr particularities: its preferred Fairy STAB, Hyper voice, goes through Substitute, its Fire Coverage, Mystical fire, hits much stronger than lele's hp fire, it has access to Psychic noise, access to moves like Koff or Vacuum Wave, making it a really separate mon from Lele. While running Lele means that either your Bolt or Gambit is incapacitated by the psychic terrain, or that you don't run them. if this lele is a Garde however, Rbolt nd KGB are cool to use. that's why I think Mega Gardevoir should be B-, because it is a better teammate to some top tier mons than lele.
Mgarde's Matchups are also pretty different to Lele's: Mgarde doesn't slap a fire move in its set and calls itself a msciz check, and is vulnerable to sucker punch. It doesn't soft check Rbolt and force it out, but has better odds of killing Ferro and tran,

Just a quick comment about UR noms in general, in my opinion if you are mentioning the differences the pokemon has with its competition you also need to explain in what capacity those differences allows it to do something Tapu Lele (and also M-Latios) cannot do, and give more concrete examples. We know moves like Knock Off, Destiny Bond, etc. are good moves in general, but in what situations would you want to drop Tapu Lele advantages over Mega Gardevoir to run these moves?

For example i don't think Knock Off is a very good example since you'd rather wear down your resists by throwing hazards and clicking strong moves rather than knocking them off which can be a bit more prediction reliant to ultimately achieve the same thing.

On the contrary, you do go over how mgarde not setting terrain & it can get better rolls with myst fire vs some targets, which directly talks about a situation that can happen regularly in game - this is the kind of arguments i'm talking about, and i think if you focus your nominations on that kind of points they will get better & more convincing. In my opinion, generally the big question you'll need to answer when considering using an unranked Pokemon is pretty much:
"What will happen in the average natdex games (or in given, important specific matchups/situations) when i'm using this pokemon instead of its competition? How often is it better than its competition, and why is it better when it is better?"
and i think if you give a concrete answer to this question your nominations can be a lot more convincing.

In a nutshell: don't just go listing good moves or traits it gets, find concrete and common situations in the metagame where the Pokemon is better than its competition. Yes sometimes after experimentation it might turn out that there aren't many of these situations, but that's part of the metagame exploration process: things look good on paper, we try them and it's only what actually happen in the games that will tell us if the idea actually work or not - especially when you compare it to what its competition can do in the same situations!

Of course, big grain of salt since i didn't play in a long while, but i think what i'm saying here just applies to any vr noms in general

 

[EternumTagerMain]

I don't see Mega-Garchomp anywhere in the VR. Does it actually have utility or should it be D Ranked for being stuck in OU and unviable?

 

[Kin+ak (✧∇✧)]

Fine fine. Mgarde has access to a Much stronger Focus Blast than most mons in the meta, and thus has a much better heatran and KGB MU than mons like Mtios, and a stronger Mystical fire too so ferro can't afford to switch in on its attacks nearly At all.

I don't see Mega-Garchomp anywhere in the VR. Does it actually have utility or should it be D Ranked for being stuck in OU and unviable?

Megachomp got that little niche in sand where it removes Corv with Fire Blast and Lando with DMeteor for its teammates to get out Of control without these around, While Also keeping 170 Atk STAB sand force boosted EQ. And last slot can be a number Of thibgs from Spikes to Stone edge to toxic. Very Fun mon to play tbh

 

[Kin+ak (✧∇✧)]

Aight

to C+
Tapu Bulu might look in difficulty in current meta, with birds around, and Scary Dengo, and Msciz, But in reality it's an Unique AntiMeta pick.
Tapu Bulu, thanks to its Type, has unique Matchups in currrent Meta, Like Hardwalling Superpower and knock Waterpon, Countering Rbolt, and much more. Bulu has great Coverage (but no Physical fairy STAB LMAOOO) in Stone edge, Close Combat and High Horsepower. It has the Speed tier of Raging Bolt, and while that might seem suboptimal as it'd sure be better to Straight-out outspeed, it allows it to outspeed the mons Rbolt do (when investnig speed), most notably the Kanto birds, who die to that good ol' sweet SD stone edge. Can be hard to take down, Sets Gterrain, it deserves that rank

to C
who tf even believes in that thing anymore. got its spot stolen by CHIKORITA of all starters in PLZA like yea it's js that incompetent.

to B
I know I didn't hold this discourse before, but I do think Mtias is Bloody good, definetely more than Victini

to A-
I stg it was nice in there, Great utility, can put on insane pressure, Cheap but existent speed control, and Z move variety, has very few counters

 

[Kin+ak (✧∇✧)]

Thread SOOOOO empty like I aint trying but yea atp I can only triple post.

to C-
and I already know the regular Haha'ers (Sami, egg (wait no he can't no more lol), Moyashi, Dahness, etc) are aready scrolling down to that Juicy laughing koffing, but anyways.
Empoleon in this meta does look Horrendous, slow steel type with little to no breaking power, not that bulky overall, crazy 4MSS, among others. However, it's a steel type that doesn't fear Fire, has reliable recovery, pivots, removes hazards, spreads burn, removes Items, phazes -not in a single set, 4MSS's a bitch, respectfully-, depending on what the team needs more. its newly gained competitive make it a defog deterrent that doesn't drop to Terap or molt Flamethrower, making it a cheap knock off of Gholdengo in that matter, Speaking of knock offs, it has access to that too, which can be helpful if you want it to set rocks -yea it can do that too- since you menace Defoggers with a good competitive buff and resist rapid spin, and outlast Terapagos for that matter, so I feel like it's really underexplored. it can also slow pivot slower than alo to gain momentum off alo, and alo can't do shit to it bc it's immune to tox. so empoleon deserves to be ranked and explored and don't just look at it and say "it's ass lmao" like I am serious homie I stg you try it before assuming shi.



SPEAKING OF ASSUMING SHI

to C+
If I ask you "what tier is MegaChomp in", you automatically answer "OU by technicality" but if it wasn't for Mchomp Half of y'alls wouldn't know the word technicality (respectfully). So Mchomp (juicy haha react button, I know) can, as I've said it before, be a good tool in Sand teams to utterly delete Landorus-T, Ferro, Corv and Dozo with its powerful STAB/SE special attacks on mixed sets to 2HKO them at worst (or if he moves miss, you see). Sand Force also means that running only 140 Atk EVs (Mixed set), hitting 406, will have you hitting as hard as if you had 527.8 attack, whereas base 170 Neutral nature with max EVs hits 439. So obviously you have to run Sand, but sand ain't bad rn, Rain being rare af anywhere past 1600 elo. Another option that Mchomp can run that is worthy of being ranked is SD + Scale shot. ScaleMchomp can finish off Bulky cores with INSANE ease, minimal chip destroying insane cores, an that is boost-able by sand too, so for example if you have other mons for lando and corv you can get this funny calc
+2 252+ Atk Sand Force Garchomp-Mega Earthquake vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Great Tusk: 451-532 (103.9 - 122.5%) -- guaranteed OHKO
(ada Mchomp has just the speed tier to outspeed Draga after 1 scale shot)
I'll add as a final note that I know more teams in Top 100 ladd with Mchomp than Mmedi Mmaw and Mgyara combined (2 for Mchomp to 0) despite them all being ranked.

to B-
I'd argue that Hippow is better than Mtar if a team's goal is to be full sand, since it can hold Smoot rock, and lets the mega slot be mchomp, Hippow also struggles less to slot in tox and phazing, and has recovery, and much much tougher to OHKO, as well as being a Neat answer to Mlop for sand teams as they tend to not like its existence.

to C+
This mon here is Excellent in Sand, pretty much the reason Sand is viable at all. SD, 135 base atk, powerful stabs, Rock silde Coverage, respectable speed at +2 -outspeeds Speed booster ival-, and its typing gives it SO MUCH setup opportunities when it holds air balloon, I feel like C- is harsh as hell. Finishes off teams by itself, #whatisamoltres, #WeSDonLandoT, #whatisaRBolt, #Flinchhaxisfun, #outspedbyDDSatan, all the usual, everybody knows exca, not much to say


No dracozolt nom this mon sux, use arctozolt in snow instead.

On that note, Gholdengo is broken, unhealthy, dishonest, is a weapon of




https://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen9nationaldex-2315805759-bs3nmm421is99du7it98pig9ji5ntlbpw Empoleon, Mchomp, Hippow replay
https://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen9nationaldex-2316121343-aspwwxy680isdarvagy6g3guqqlaejbpw Excadrill Hippow replay
https://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen9nationaldex-2316125735
https://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen9nationaldex-2316154773-27ib96xu0uvh73u7lurw3ume8kaxmeopw

 

[TomasKraven]

I feel like after giving it a spin around Nat Dex OU, Tinkaton deserves more love... so i nominate it for C+/B-.

The reasons why are pretty simple:

1. Excellent typing. This pokemon has 9 resistances and 2 inmunities with only 2 weaknesses, one of which can be mitigated by the use of air balloon.

2. It has excelent speed and bulk. Boasting a max 312 speed, it can outrun most defensive pokemon. It is faster than max speed Landorus-T, Great Tusk, Gliscor, Moltres, defensive Zapdos, Ting Lu, Alomomola, etc. It can also outrun common threats like Terapagos, Kommo-o, Kingambit, Gholdengo, Dragonite and neuter them with paralysis. In terms of bulk, without taking into account all of its resistances and inmunities, it can tank most fire and ground coverage moves very well like mystical fire from Hatterene and Diancie, Earth Power from Kyurem, Terapagos, Earthquakes from Roaring Moon, Dragonite, Ting-Lu, etc.​

​

3. It has 2 excellent abilities to choose from:​

• You can either go with Mold breaker and disrupt enemies like Gholdengo to hax them, bypass Mega Diancie and Hatterene's Magic Bounce to hax them or setup rocks, Terapagos Terashell and Dragonite's Multiscale to deal good damage(Either with Gigaton Hammer or Ice Hammer), Disable Limber for a t-wave on a Lopunny, 1HKO Ogerpon-Cornerstone as it disables Sturdy and also destroys Shedinja.

• You can play with Air Balloon and pickpocket to disrupt the enemies defensive pokemon. You can steal rocky helmets/leftovers from Landorus(and beat them with ice hammer) and Corviknight, Heavy Duty Boots from pokemons like Great Tusk, Moltres, Terapagos, Alomomola(also leftovers and helmet), Samurott-Hisuan(also sash), Zamazenta(also leftovers), Cinderace, Tapu Koko, Meowscarada, Tornadus-T, Pelipper, Rillaboom(also leftovers), Kingambit (leftovers), Zeraora, Mandibuzz, Melmetal(leftovers, boots, etc) . You can also try to disrupt their speed control switching in your Tinkaton into a scarfed mons like Urshifu, Landorus, Samurott, Latios, Kartana, etc.

4. There several move mixups to do with with Ice Hammer to lure in different threats like Lando-T, Gliscor, Garchomp, Tusk. It also hits Dragonite and Hydrapple well. Additionally, run Knock off to remove important items from the opponent or run Play Rough to deal with threats like Latios/Latias(2HKO), Roaring Moon (OHKO), Meowscarada (2HKO), Kommo-o (2HKO), Greninja (2HKO), Hawlucha (2HKO), Samurott-H(2HKO), Keldeo(2HKO) and Raging Bolt (1.2% chance to 2HKO)​

​

5. Its a fast encore user and screen setter. As mentioned before, it has a max speed of 312 and good bulk with lets it capitalize on slower pokemon or setup pokemons with encore, hax them or get momentum with a switch and is also able to be played as a HO lead with screens, twave and rocks.​

​

Given all the flexibility of play this pokemon has as a disruptive tool and defensive pokemon, i strongly feel it deserves a better ranking like its regular OU counterpart which is getting a lot of attention lately.

 

[boppy]

boppydop curated VR nominee…
MEGA PINSIR to C TIER



I. POTENCY & MOVESET

pinsir-mega can be a powerful HO pick which after some testing has pulled off very impressive results. i’m surprised this isnt at least on the VR already tbh

set

boppydop gym arc (Pinsir-Mega) @ Pinsirite
Ability: Aerilate
Happiness: 0
Tera Type: Bug
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Swords Dance
- Quick Attack
- Frustration / Double-Edge
- Earthquake / Close Combat

firstly, swords dance, which is mandatory as it can boost mpinsir’s frustrations to extraordinary levels, and help bolster the power of its quick attacks to aid cleaning versus faster flying-weak opponents. as such, quick attack is also a necessity, as when boosted with aerilate becomes a shockingly strong STAB flying-type priority move which can get the jump on ogerw, mlop, urshifu, and volcarona, and wipe through scarfed hsam, zama, and rmoon once weakened(as you can see, there are many meta-relevant targets). following, frustration is the main STAB of choice, which hits naturally hard even without considering the potential attack boosts from swords dance, at +0 having a favored chance to OHKO chary and tusk and dishing significant chip towards toxapex, ferrothorn and alomomola, while double-edge can trade much preferred longevity for the guaranteed 2KHO and OHKO on toxapex and chary respectively. lastly, the coverage of choice, which can be earthquake for the 2KHO and OHKO on gholdengo and heatran respectively, cc for the OHKO on mtar and more damage on ferro, or even stone edge for the birds.

calcs

note every calc is at +0 with no hazards or chip

qa

252 Atk Aerilate Pinsir-Mega Quick Attack vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Ogerpon-Wellspring: 206-246 (68.4 - 81.7%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 Atk Aerilate Pinsir-Mega Quick Attack vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Lopunny-Mega: 188-224 (69.3 - 82.6%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 Atk Aerilate Pinsir-Mega Quick Attack vs. 0 HP / 4 Def Urshifu-Rapid-Strike: 180-212 (52.7 - 62.1%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 Atk Aerilate Pinsir-Mega Quick Attack vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Volcarona: 254-302 (81.6 - 97.1%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

252 Atk Aerilate Pinsir-Mega Quick Attack vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Samurott-Hisui: 109-129 (33.9 - 40.1%) -- guaranteed 3HKO
252 Atk Aerilate Pinsir-Mega Quick Attack vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Zamazenta: 158-188 (48.6 - 57.8%) -- 95.7% chance to 2HKO
252 Atk Aerilate Pinsir-Mega Quick Attack vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Roaring Moon: 118-141 (33.6 - 40.1%) -- guaranteed 3HKO

frust

252 Atk Aerilate Pinsir-Mega Frustration vs. 0 HP / 4 Def Charizard-Mega-Y: 279-328 (93.9 - 110.4%) -- 62.5% chance to OHKO
252 Atk Aerilate Pinsir-Mega Frustration vs. 0 HP / 4 Def Great Tusk: 360-426 (97 - 114.8%) -- 81.3% chance to OHKO
252 Atk Aerilate Pinsir-Mega Frustration vs. 248 HP / 136+ Def Toxapex: 130-154 (42.9 - 50.8%) -- 2% chance to 2HKO
252 Atk Aerilate Pinsir-Mega Frustration vs. 252 HP / 92+ Def Ferrothorn: 153-180 (43.4 - 51.1%) -- guaranteed 3HKO after Leftovers recovery
252 Atk Aerilate Pinsir-Mega Frustration vs. 8 HP / 252+ Def Alomomola: 189-223 (39.9 - 47.1%) -- guaranteed 3HKO
(double-edge will OHKO/2KHO if used in every calc listed here)

coverage

252 Atk Pinsir-Mega Earthquake vs. 252 HP / 96+ Def Gholdengo: 214-252 (56.6 - 66.6%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252 Atk Pinsir-Mega Close Combat vs. 252 HP / 92+ Def Ferrothorn: 200-236 (56.8 - 67%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
252 Atk Pinsir-Mega Stone Edge vs. 248 HP / 248+ Def Moltres: 384-456 (100.2 - 119%) -- guaranteed OHKO
252 Atk Pinsir-Mega Stone Edge vs. 248 HP / 184+ Def Zapdos: 214-252 (55.8 - 65.7%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

II. STATS & TYPING

contrary to first impression(heh), mpinsir’s stats and typing has unique perks that can assist it with finding setup opportunity:

1. surprising high 120 defense stat allows it to tank and rko various hits such as +1 pult darts, scarf shifu ss, mlop fo+return
2. very neat speed tier conveniently outspeeds great tusk, kyurem, and base 100s(offzap chary)
3. a seemingly disparaging typing allows you to setup freely versus lando and non tox glisc sets while also only being 2x weak to rocks in its base form
4. base form bug typing can handily tank and setup once on neutral hits from great tusk/special kyurem

III. TEAMMATES

mpinsir is an HO-only mon, and can wreak havoc once paired with supporting teammates(alike z-move volcarona)

teammates

fantastic partner which can switch into the rock and electric moves directed at mpinsir, support it by removing rocks off the field, and can run iciumz/head smash to lure and deal massive damage to its checks such as zapdos
supports mpinsir with spikes and can chip down shared checks such as ferro/zap
can spread para and chip down checks such as zapdos, moltres, and melm
solid accompanying lead which can readily keep hazards off the field while spreading knock and setting rocks of its own

IV. REPLAYS

replays

current peak 1889 #8
https://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen9nationaldex-2317069845-armqjw9lef40tj89it048tijuosr5dbpw
https://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen9nationaldex-2316688461-01q8xi7lniw97xwb2mr7s2gclr670ywpw
https://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen9nationaldex-2316477653-kdljxfwjm14x9tbyrngdhoreig3yu6lpw
https://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen9nationaldex-2316401586-0j7l86ii5838rhm6whwb04ghwsnfxwwpw?p2
https://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen9nationaldex-2316189621-6kuq1c3nx2hkkopocxy7oos0d51x433pw
https://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen9nationaldex-2316157439-7xx05p8lm8hfd9un2317g9mswdw9ccspw?p2
https://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen9nationaldex-2316100640-cqh21j7lg4dfoqk9cml65lv8qn01e92pw?p2
https://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen9nationaldex-2317815311-fv3f84clqyaibrayh6s5y15oq2ibjwcpw
https://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen9nationaldex-2315838778-oi71ce3fo4myctjkt1ecshjce6e5gs7pw

 

[FayaWizard]

-> B+
For the life of me I cannot see why anyone uses this Pokemon. It is touted as this anti-lead that shuts down hazard setters while keeping a strong offensive presence, but its performance often falls flat.


By far the most common lead, uninvested Earthquake completely destroys Diancie, a comfortable OHKO against Mega and a high chance even against base form. While Mega Diancie can dish some damage back, you still end up at best trading 1 for 1, while the far more likely case is that you are now 5v6. Their Landorus-T can still come back later and Intimidate a threat, act as a sacrifice, force chip with Rocky Helmet, or still perform its revenge-killing duties with Choice Scarf. This is not a good matchup for Mega Diancie.


Another common hazard setter, Mega Diancie once again gets utterly demolished by Razor Shell. While Mega Diance can at least threaten the Offensive sets, Choice Scarf crushes Mega Diance while leaving a full HP Samurott-Hisui up to perform its duties later. Meanwhile, Focus Sash sets can force a trade, or sacrifice Samurott for a layer of Spikes and chip damage, then revenge kill Mega Diancie, quite an easy feat. While a better matchup than Landorus-T, I would still consider this a neutral matchup at best, if not favored towards Samurott due to the prevelance of Choice Scarf.


Yet another hazard setter, you all know the gist by now, Mega Diancie has the chance to trade with Mystical Fire, and this time it's actually a worthwhile trade due to Ferrothorn's greater value to a team outside of a lead and hazard setter. However, this relies on Mega Diancie actually running Mystical Fire, which it can struggle to fit due to often requiring both STABs, Earth Power, and Stealth Rocks. Without Mystical Fire, Mega Diancie is fodder for any Ferrothorn set running STAB moves, whether it be Gyro Ball or Power Whip. While these moves are also not too common on Ferrothorn sets, this is once again a neutral matchup at best.

Beyond Mega Diancie's failures as an anti-lead, some may argue that its offensive prowess is enough to justify its A- rank. However, in this metagame, we are in no shortage of powerful yet frail breakers. Ogerpon-Wellspring, Tapu Lele, Iron Valiant, and others all boast considerable offensive power themselves, with often greater utility offered than Mega Diancie's inconsistent matchups into hazard leads. Defensively, Mega Diancie has a poor typing and even worse defensive stats, while other leads like Landorus-T offer a surprising amount of reliability.

In conclusion, Mega Diancie is a bum. Drop this fraud out of the A-ranks now.

 

[Oculars]

-> B+
For the life of me I cannot see why anyone uses this Pokemon. It is touted as this anti-lead that shuts down hazard setters while keeping a strong offensive presence, but its performance often falls flat.

I personally think mega diancie is a terrible anti lead, its true purpose is just running four attacks and 2hko'ing the entire tier outside chansey and clodsire. Rock fire fairy ground coverage off 160mixed is just absurd especially with that high of a speed tier and the ability to defensively check many things if you choose not to mega. Its a mon that can put in immense ammounts of work if you can bring it in frequently and often claims a kill every time it enters the field vs the very common zardy structures.

 

[Toxic Ariados]

Alright, I don't usually do VR nominations, but I've been using these two Pokemon a lot and I think that they do have a bit of potential. So at the risk of getting bombarded by Haha reacts, I want to nominate...

Entei & Armarouge
To C-
​

These two Fire types have actually been holding their own for me in the upper end of the ladder, and in some Winter Seasonal games against competent opponents. I do think that they have a bit of untapped potential, and I definitely plan on exploring their abilities a bit more.




Entei @ Heavy-Duty Boots
Ability: Inner Focus
Tera Type: Fire
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Sacred Fire
- Extreme Speed
- Stone Edge
- Toxic

This is the set I've been running for Entei. Sacred Fire works as its main source of damage. It also has surprisingly good coverage with Stone Edge to nail Moltres and Charizard Y, and Extreme Speed to pick off any weakened opponents. I wanted to build a team around Entei because Sacred Fire looked like a really menacing move to play around. I fashioned a hazard stack team (Pecharunt was originally Dragapult) around this Entei and it has worked surprisingly well. The idea is to use Sacred Fire to pressure common Rapid Spinners and Defoggers (Tusk, Treads, Corviknight, etc.) as none of them appreciate a burn. I didn't realize this at first, but our most common hazard removal options despise getting burnt, and Moltres, which doesn't mind the Sacred Fire, has to be very wary of Stone Edge. I might be wrong, but I believe that the only hazard remover that can confidently switch into Entei's Sacred Fire is Terapagos, which still doesn't appreciate a potential burn. Inner Focus is also a nice ability, as it means that Landorus cannot Intimidate you, and furthermore, it risks getting burnt on the switch if you were to throw out a Sacred Fire. The ability to deal damage and threaten to burn incoming foes is what makes Entei a key piece to this team. It can deter most hazard removal Pokemon through the threat of Sacred Fire. Now obviously, this guy's main weakness is bulky Water types like Slowbro, Alomomola, and Toxapex. This is the reason I gave it Toxic. You can poison the former two with Toxic on the switch, and even if you do end up fumbling and burning them with Sacred Fire, then it isn't the end of the world. That 6% chip is better than nothing. This is also the reason why I think that Ogerpon Wellspring is a perfect teammate for Entei. Wellspring can menace the enemy's Water types due to its ability and respectable power, when coupled with Entei's Toxic, the opponent may be forced to think fast as the poison damage racks up. Alomomola specifically risks having its Flip Turns mitigated by Wellspring, and if statused, it can't simply click Toxic forever until it hits the Wellspring.

To recap, I think that Entei is C- worthy because of how Sacred Fire and its solid coverage can pose a threat to many common forms of hazard removal. Having an excellent teammate in Wellspring also helps curb its notable weakness against bulky Water types.

ENTEI REPLAYS:

This is a pretty good example of Entei exerting pressure with Sacred Fire. I burnt 2 of their Pokemon right out the gate.

This was a battle I had for the Winter Seasonal. I know that it's a bit outdated since I still have Dragapult. But Entei did fairly well here by taking out Zamazenta and getting the finishing blow on a weakened Kingambit.

This is another nice Entei showcase. I burnt their Landorus and Kingambit while threatening their Moltres out with Stone Edge.




((BIG SHOT)) (Armarouge) (M) @ Focus Sash
Ability: Weak Armor
Tera Type: Fire
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Modest Nature / Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Armor Cannon
- Expanding Force / Psychic / Psyshock
- Focus Blast / Aura Sphere
- Calm Mind

I talked about Armarouge and its quirks a bit in the Metagame Discussion thread. I do think it has a bit of potential as a sweeper. Under Psychic Terrain support, it can actually threaten a fair chunk of the metagame with its STAB combos and solid coverage. Unsurprisingly, Armarouge fights in a very similar style to Ceruledge. You set up on physical attackers with Calm Mind and pop the Weak Armor boost to wreak some havoc. Armarouge also has Focus Blast as coverage to take out common Dark types like Roaring Moon and Tyranitar (if you hit, of course) to keep the sweep going. While Ceruledge does have the more potent Swords Dance, Armarouge doesn't have to deal with stuff like Intimidate and obnoxious physical walls like Toxapex and Alomomola. I have a list of Armarouge damage calcs on common defensive Pokemon on this post right here. The only things that will naturally resist both of Armarouge's STAB moves are Latios/Latias, and Kantonian Slowking/Slowbro. Anything else risks getting blasted to shreds by a Terrain Boosted Expanding Force or a [[BIG SHOT]] Armor Cannon. Bulkier teams might be forced to respect its presence. I tried experimenting with a Lele Gholdengo Armarouge core on this team, and while I'm still looking to improve the team, it has performed very well. With the right support, Armarouge can be a formidable Pokemon on the field.

I think Armarouge is C- worthy. It has a pretty strong Fire/Psychic STAB combination and Fighting coverage to take out the occasional Tyranitar or Heatran, Armarouge can perform very well if given the right matchup. Even in rougher matchups where a sweep may not be entirely possible, it can still threaten to claim an enemy Pokemon with an Armor Cannon or boosted Expanding Force by living a hit with Focus Sash (or just living a hit in general).

ARMAROUGE REPLAYS:

This is another game I had for the Winter Seasonal. I won the game with an Armarouge sweep due to how easily it dismantled the enemy's core.

If you can catch a careless U-Turn like this you might be able to sweep weakened teams with Armarouge.

Armarouge can do pretty well into Alomomola-based cores. I single handedly won the game with it in this match.

(I really need to save better replays. I have gotten so many cool games with these two Pokemon but I just never think to save the replays for some reason...)

And those are my VR nominations. Let me know what you guys think about these two Pokemon!

 

[slopcat]

quick thoughts after some (poorly played) games vs decent players since I feel as though rankings are fairly accurate (sans pult) with these two aside:

/ -> A+

Both of these mons are a solid cut above the rest of the A rank in terms of strength, application, and consistency in-game. Terapagos is the one rapid spinner who can CONSISTENTLY ensure hazards are removed at least once per game. Tusk is often hard-pressed to find opportunities to enter, and when it does enter, risking contact punishment like flame body or static is often less valuable than trying to just blow things up with groudon's attack stat. treads has the niche of being quite fast, with a steel typing and pivoting, but I still find rapagos' ability to consistently spin and then turn that spin into offensive momentum without getting blanked is incredibly valuable. with starstorm/earthpower/flamethrower, you melt almost anything into 2hko's, and since tera shell guarantees that you can't be killed even with fairly strong fighting moves, the spin WILL come down. the only hazard setter who matches up to rapagos properly well is scarf hrott (who cant take starstorms and has to lock into sacred, a weak move that any of rapagos's teammates can absorb usually) and mtar, who can actually do things vs the turtle with sand breaking tera shell and pursuit to get guaranteed chunks of ~50% any time rapagos tries to leave. if your team needs removal (which may be going out of fashion soon, admittedly. gliscpex clefable feels insanely consistent and boots spam seems like a lot of the move for offenses going forward), terapagos is usually the best option by a country mile. in offense v offense games, terapagos is the most effective, when it needs to only spin once or twice, and its starstorms can't be reliably healed off with its meager 8pp. in these games, rapagos is consistently a fantastic option, and probably the best enabler of the best breaker in the tier (cm lele).

zamazenta is far and away the best fighting type, and I think that's pretty plain to see. one of the only fightings with the coverage to hit lele, molt, glisc, AND ghold means that you're never in a bad spot all around. 4a boots sets are the most consistent, although idbp does have some small niche. The necessity of gambit makes fat fightings the best they've ever been, and with such robust stats and the best speed tier in the format I think it's a no brainer to push it up there or frankly to s-. you can run the dog on everything from semi-stall to balance to ho. I truly believe that if you CAN fit zama, you probably SHOULD be fitting zama. the other fighting types are good- perfectly passable. ival in particular is actually proving to be a bit better than i'd thought, although outsped by moon and kind of weak breaking power and without specs and its almost comical frailty to anything besides dark or fighting moves make it unappealing to some. it is true, offense zama lacks the ability to boost past its checks, but that feels kind of irrelevant when so many of them will die to its coverage anyway. fat ghold is an issue (what isn't fat ghold an issue for, though) so it does have checks, and the 4mss is definitely felt at times. but the reliable strength that it brings should frankly guarantee its spot in the higher tiers of the vr, if not at the top.

 

[Sputnik]

VR definitely needs an update soon, as soon as we've given things enough time to settle post Pult ban. Anyway...

B -> B+

This is one of the biggest beneficiaries of the Dragapult ban, GKing really hated all the Pursuit Gambit running around and didn't like seeing Pult itself at all. There are still some problematic meta matchups, as Gambit can set up on it and it hates Ghold, but it also packs some very interesting defensive utility. Glowking is almost entirely unique in that it compresses a quadruple Fighting-resist with a set of resistances that lets it check Tapu Lele and Mega Diancie. It's not a stalwart answer to any of these, and it really doesn't beat Great Tusk at all, but it can take coverage moves from non-CB Zamazenta and Urshifu-R with relative comfort while also pivoting into the STAB moves of Tapu Lele, while also not immediately dropping to Diamond Storm variants of Mega Diancie. With Regenerator and a Toxic immunity it is also adept at sticking around versus Toxapex teams. Future Sight support is also very good right now, as a lot of teams rely on walls like Toxapex, Gliscor, and Alomomola to dance around powerful Fighting-types like the aforementioned Tusk, Zama, and Urshifu as well as Mega Lopunny. Future Sight absolutely ruins this and allows them to muscle through just about anything if properly positioned, which isn't hard with Chilly Reception. Thunder Wave and Sludge Bomb are ok utility too, Twave especially for the offenses and bulky offenses this fits best on, but its very nice that you can actually put this things talents to good use without being Pursuit trapped by every team that was trying to beat Dragapult.

A- -> A

Sort of similar as Slowbro does the same FuturePort thing as Gking does, but with a different defensive profile. Bro peerlessly walls all of the tier's Fighting-types, unlike Gking which can pivot into their STAB moves but can't fully answer any of them on its own. The best set in my opinion is Colbur Berry+Body Press, which also gives you the ability to one time lure and threaten Mega Tyranitar, Kingambit, Roaring Moon, and Hisuian Samurott while making Zamazenta's Dark coverage even less of a factor. This is very unique defensive compression for offensive teams, and, as detailed above, FuturePort with our Fighting-types is very good right now. Slowbro FuturePort Offense is particularly good at breaking down GliscPex teams, as its one of the few Waters that isn't immediately crippled by a stray Toxic and can force these teams into very uncomfortable situations, especially if paired with Urshifu-R who can get past any Gliscor trying to get sneaky with Protect. This is an invaluable asset considering how well these GliscPex balances can simply outlast a lot of other popular offensive builds if played well. I should stress that its far from an autowin but with good play there are very few consistent offensive playstyles that can apply as much pressure to these balance teams as Slowbro Offense can. Also likes Pult being banned for obvious reasons.

A -> A+

Slopcat did a great job detailing why this is good right now, I don't think I would bring IDPress to any serious game right now but Boots and Choice Band are still very good sets that are seriously threatening to a lot of common teams, while Howl+Elec Z can still crack a few holes occasionally. This things speed tier also gets way better now that Pult is gone.

C -> B

This thing was way better than C even before Pult was banned, but now it can really show off its talents. The typing is very nice to assist with pivoting around Fighting-types, and it can take just about any one physical hit in a pinch. It becomes a pivot bot in matchups featuring common Steel-types, but its ability to force these in makes for a nice pairing with Spikes. Z Parting Shot is also a very interesting tool for healing a chipped teammate up. Far from amazing because it simply isn't that hard to switch into but it provides nice buffer for a lot of offenses.

C+ -> C-

I've experimented with this thing a little bit but Gliscor has really put this thing out of a job. Gliscor's immunity to Status, Spikes, TSpikes, and just Ground in general alongside much better practical longevity is a big reason why fat balance is a premier playstyle right now, and Hippowdon is simply too easy for both these fat Gliscor balances and the current offensive builds to take advantage of. Hippo's only niches of note, those being a Ground-type with reliable recovery that checks Mega Charizard Y and its ability to set Sandstorm are simply not useful right now, as Yard checks are easier to fit than ever (see Toxapex being Gliscor's #1 partner), and defensive Pokemon that don't care about Sandstorm at all are very prominent. Considered nominating this to just be UR altogether but you might be able to justify this on some very unusual balance with a fat Grass, so I won't go that far yet. Regardless just use Gliscor, if your team is that weak to Yard it probably would benefit from a restructure anyway.

Gonna do a rapid fire C rank -> UR purge here

Worse than Torkoal for full sun which is a very fringy playstyle anyway

Actually horrible mon, there are at least 20 UR mons I would use before this thing. Doesn't check anything except Zamazenta and can't put any sort of significant pressure onto most teams.

Pivot sets are completely dead because of how horrible they are into Gholdengo, I've seen some stall teams try CM to try and deal with Ghold but honestly just use Clodsire at that point. Chansey is better at everything else this tries to do and is already not that good so I'm not sure what kind of team you would put this on, especially since Stall isn't good right now anyway.

 

[TBE]

quick thoughts after some (poorly played) games vs decent players since I feel as though rankings are fairly accurate (sans pult) with these two aside:

/ -> A+

Both of these mons are a solid cut above the rest of the A rank in terms of strength, application, and consistency in-game. Terapagos is the one rapid spinner who can CONSISTENTLY ensure hazards are removed at least once per game. Tusk is often hard-pressed to find opportunities to enter, and when it does enter, risking contact punishment like flame body or static is often less valuable than trying to just blow things up with groudon's attack stat. treads has the niche of being quite fast, with a steel typing and pivoting, but I still find rapagos' ability to consistently spin and then turn that spin into offensive momentum without getting blanked is incredibly valuable. with starstorm/earthpower/flamethrower, you melt almost anything into 2hko's, and since tera shell guarantees that you can't be killed even with fairly strong fighting moves, the spin WILL come down. the only hazard setter who matches up to rapagos properly well is scarf hrott (who cant take starstorms and has to lock into sacred, a weak move that any of rapagos's teammates can absorb usually) and mtar, who can actually do things vs the turtle with sand breaking tera shell and pursuit to get guaranteed chunks of ~50% any time rapagos tries to leave. if your team needs removal (which may be going out of fashion soon, admittedly. gliscpex clefable feels insanely consistent and boots spam seems like a lot of the move for offenses going forward), terapagos is usually the best option by a country mile. in offense v offense games, terapagos is the most effective, when it needs to only spin once or twice, and its starstorms can't be reliably healed off with its meager 8pp. in these games, rapagos is consistently a fantastic option, and probably the best enabler of the best breaker in the tier (cm lele).

zamazenta is far and away the best fighting type, and I think that's pretty plain to see. one of the only fightings with the coverage to hit lele, molt, glisc, AND ghold means that you're never in a bad spot all around. 4a boots sets are the most consistent, although idbp does have some small niche. The necessity of gambit makes fat fightings the best they've ever been, and with such robust stats and the best speed tier in the format I think it's a no brainer to push it up there or frankly to s-. you can run the dog on everything from semi-stall to balance to ho. I truly believe that if you CAN fit zama, you probably SHOULD be fitting zama. the other fighting types are good- perfectly passable. ival in particular is actually proving to be a bit better than i'd thought, although outsped by moon and kind of weak breaking power and without specs and its almost comical frailty to anything besides dark or fighting moves make it unappealing to some. it is true, offense zama lacks the ability to boost past its checks, but that feels kind of irrelevant when so many of them will die to its coverage anyway. fat ghold is an issue (what isn't fat ghold an issue for, though) so it does have checks, and the 4mss is definitely felt at times. but the reliable strength that it brings should frankly guarantee its spot in the higher tiers of the vr, if not at the top.

(Gonna ramble a bit in this post) I 100% agree with Zama raise. I think it’s the best mon in the tier at the moment. ID Zama is absolutely fantastic now that Dragapult is gone. It pairs super well with Scarf Lele because it forces in fight resist like Gholdengo which is weakened or 1v1d by Crunch depending on the set. ID Zama also abuses Alomomola structures (at least the lazy builds that ignore ID Zama because most teams haven’t adjusted to the meta). This mon is not broken but I think a lot of teams are severely underprepared or think splashing a Gholdengo is enough to check it. Outside Lele, I think Kartana is a good option to pair. Either Z or Band because you wear down similar checks. You don’t need to settle for Crunch either, Stone Edge/Heavy Slam are not bad options but I know that’s a harder sell because for some reason people are against using unconventional sets even when it suits their team better. I think rest is not that good anymore, I liked it during Pult meta for obvious reasons. I don’t think this mon is great speed control but granted you don’t NEED speed control for Zama if you already beat it defensively, same goes for any other mon lol. Feel like that needs to be said. a lot left unsaid in this post but just covering my first impressions, other than Zama I want to mention Assault Vest Mola. Just absolute cancer and completely changed the way I approach building now

 

[Adriyun]

UR -> C+
. It has competition for the Mega slot as its not as offensively threatening as Charizard-Y or Mega Diancie, while pokemon like Gliscor and Gholdengo don't need the mega slot to be defensive behemoths. Mega steelix main niche is it's a very bulky steel/ground type while not being passive. Excadrill is more of a sand rush sweeper, while also just not being good in general. Iron treads is a hazard remover while being aBle to pivot, but it has 4mss while also being a bit passive. Mega steelix gets to put its offense and defense to use, with its typing being able to swap volt switch and steel types useful resistances. it can fit its stabs Earthquake and heavy slam which help it wear down pokemon. Heavy slam is able to 3kho lando and gliscor while not getting 3khod by earthquake from Gliscor. Its typing and bulk allows it to take a +1 modest Draco Z from raging bolt and okho back guaranteed with rocks up. Its physical defense is so high even uninvested can allow it to take some strong hits like a +1 ivy cudgle from ogerpon-well spring(-1 from superpower), a 69% to live close combat from mega medicham and okhoing after, and a 69% to live earthquake from +2 garchomp. All of this is with my more offensive oriented mega steelix, you can shift its evs to guaranteed live the rolls. Overall, mega lix is a fine niche pick for a defensive mega, allowing you a ground type stealth rocker who isnt ting-lu that can take repeated hits from tapu koko and raging bolt.

Here are some replays from me/my good friends using this team/mlix for their tournament matches!!

https://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen9nationaldex-2320559894-q5kc4eoyk96j23580ce7gtdkrf1hsfhpw
https://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen9nationaldex-2316057454-79oumcabo3fakv8bca55stn8j6p6g2jpw
https://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen9nationaldex-2318182275-0lu9cagbt0fjlschki55mqe43lupt6rpw

For anyone interested, heres the team: https://pokepast.es/80d42abbf72f6f41​

 

[slopcat]

another vr post???? so soon???? what is this slopcat fellow thinking??? his greed never tires.

i have reached teambuilding nirvana. after a full day of bashing myself over the head forcing myself to build wholesome chungus pexless balance i have reached the zenith of my feverish rants. the cords are being terrorized with my incessant posting. i shall be exiled soon.

-> A
megancie is finally having its time in the sun. do not run megancie sun.
megancie is absolutely critical in many non-sun offense builds to make reasonable progress vs gliscpex and as just a generally amazing offensive statblock. being the same speed as waterpon sucks, but that's such a generally elite tier that I find it wholly irrelevant, especially considering genuinely almost nothing can actually switch into megancie more than twice. pair this with actually viable mixed movesets, accurate rock stab off 160 attack and magic bounce (twave immunity probably being the most important factor there) means that this is THE offensive figurehead of the tier. being an elite fairy that slams molt through the table is an absolutely bonkers niche, and punches such crazy holes in many balance structures it's comedic. granted, it loses to zama if it's boosted or packing hslam but there's a reason that it's probably the best mon in the tier right now. additionally as a footnote, as we learned with megagross, clear body in base form is kind of fucking bonkers! immunity to parting shot, intimidate, but more importantly webs means that you can goob so many interactions it's ludicrous. 4a is undoubtedly best, but you CAN run rocks on it as well. set is mid. dont do that. click the buttons on the rock dress pokemon. excellent.

-> B+
Kyurem is, unfortunately, still pretty mid outside of a single set. scarfrem aka i got hit with this in majors and i still havent recovered mentally
sillies aside scarfrem's one-stop-shop gliscpex fodderization isn't enough to propel it into the highest echelons of the metagame, but it is undoubtedly able to put the work in to make its place worthwile. fishing for freezes on common switchins isn't a necessarily awful idea, as well as outspeeding booster tusk can come in fairly clutch on many structures. still limited by the rocks weakness, speed tier and general difficulty securing kills, but i see it fully worthy of being at or above the status of the useless bum dragonite

i'll make a more detailed analysis later on in the week, i need to play more games versus solid players and i'm trying to focus on improving my tour play on the whole. i feel some bad vibes about iron crown. don't exactly know why, i just feel as though something bad is gonna happen. booster speed +cm + strong stab and enough coverage to obliterate gliscpex/zama as well as the popularity of lele..... there's something there. i don't like it.

 

[Kin+ak (✧∇✧)]

I nommed this mon in the same post as Inteleon, but I feel like it's better than Inteleon by Light years so additional replays of the sheer pressure it puts on when on Webs
https://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen9nationaldex-2320770061
https://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen9nationaldex-2320846049-q6hbhef14h1r5cft7getqep4cpkl8rhpw
Like I dont want it to be seen as a joke bc it's in the same post as inteleon pls thx

 

[Comett7778]

C to B+

Given the fact we appear to now be heading into a meta with more of an emphasis on fighting types Pech is perfectly placed to excel. Gambit is running pursuit less allowing Pech to freely switch out. And Pech handles every good fighting type besides Mega Medicham(which is the worst of the good ones), and thanks to it’s poison type can take Mega Lop’s Close Combats well, in addition to its normal type stab moves.

Pech can also spread toxic and confuse opponents. And also toxic boosts its damage output if you run hex over shadow ball. And with a fast set it can out speed meta staples like Tusk, Lando, and Ghold. As well as being able 1v1 Lando and Tusk if you malignant chain get the toxic, then recover spam.

 

[ARTYMASION]

After the ban of Tera, I wondered which Pokemon I wanted to support because Irachi had disappeared....So today I named 2 Pokemon to succeed him.

Zeraora C- ​

zeraora can have a unique role in the tier with his speed tier he outspeed the entire meta game. and thanks to his varied movepool and his moves like toxic knock off taunt he gets a unique role.but I come today to present his set which is for me the best.

Zeraora @ Leftovers/fairyum z
Ability: Volt Absorb
Tera Type: Electric
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Jolly Nature
- Bulk Up
- Plasma Fists
- Play Rough
- Close Combat​

in fact with this set he is able to sweep very effectively in the late game after his 2 main counters are eliminated or weakened (gliscor and landorus). Thanks to volt absorb and its pure electric type, it can easily be setup on Pokémon like Zapdos corviknight and can also easily be used as a revenkiller.

some calcs​

+1 252 Atk Zeraora Play Rough vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Great Tusk: 210-248 (56.6 - 66.8%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
+1 252 Atk Zeraora Play Rough vs. +1 0 HP / 0 Def Zamazenta: 158-186 (48.6 - 57.2%) -- 89.8% chance to 2HKO
+1 252 Atk Zeraora Play Rough vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Raging Bolt: 286-338 (73.1 - 86.4%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
+1 252 Atk Zeraora Close Combat vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Ting-Lu: 290-342 (56.4 - 66.5%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
+1 252 Atk Zeraora Close Combat vs. 220 HP / 0 Def Melmetal: 260-306 (55.7 - 65.6%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery

REPLAYS
​

https://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen9nationaldex-2320532261
https://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen9nationaldex-2320534895
https://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen9nationaldex-2320878153-0y4ro09jihf6ubaohk94mfwtbg5e8bopw
https://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen9nationaldex-2320903825-txpi7lojw4x5fb0quphbi8xxkc83je8pw

SLITHER WING : C ​

since the ban of tera slither wing and become an interesting pivot capable of checking pokemons like greats tusk landorus zamazenta kartana and kingambit but also to be able to come to pokemon like roaring mon and ogerpon to be able to revenge kill them with its priority

Slither Wing @ Heavy-Duty Boots
Ability: Protosynthesis
Tera Type: Steel
EVs: 252 HP / 28 Atk / 220 Def / 8 Spe
Impish Nature
- First Impression/close combat
- U-turn
- Morning Sun
- Will-O-Wisp




somes calcs
​

28 Atk Slither Wing First Impression vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Roaring Moon: 338-402 (96.2 - 114.5%) -- 75% chance to OHKO

252 Atk Wellspring Mask Ogerpon-Wellspring Ivy Cudgel vs. 252 HP / 220+ Def Slither Wing: 160-190 (42.7 - 50.8%) -- 3.1% chance to 2HKO

252 Atk Urshifu-Rapid-Strike Surging Strikes (3 hits) vs. 252 HP / 220+ Def Slither Wing on a critical hit: 162-192 (43.3 - 51.3%) -- approx. 5.1% chance to 2HKO

252 Atk Kartana Smart Strike vs. 252 HP / 220+ Def Slither Wing: 127-151 (33.9 - 40.3%) -- guaranteed 3HKO
I don't have much more to say, the Pokemon speaks for itself (I just didn't have time to find replays)

Spoiler

I didn't mention because there are too many Pokemon to mention, but Lokix, Keldeo, Volcanion could also have been in the VR

​

 

[hidin]

With the conclusion of NDBD and the first stage of Majors finished, the VR has been given another update to accommodate current metagame trends. There's only a couple new Pokemon, but some pretty noticeable changes throughout the whole list, so take a look!
Template of this post stolen from SV OU's recent VR update

The Sheet

Newly Added

Newly Added

UR -> C-
UR -> A
UR -> C-

Rises

Rises

A+ -> S-
A -> A+
A- -> A
A- -> A
-
B+ -> A-
B+ -> A-
B -> B+
B -> B+
B -> B+
B -> B+
B- -> B
B- -> B
-
C -> B
C+ -> B-
C -> C+
C- -> C+

Drops

Drops

S- -> Banned
-
A -> A-
A -> A-
A -> A-
-
B -> B-
B -> B-
B -> C+
B- -> C+
B- -> C+
B- -> C+
B- -> C
B- -> C-
-
C+ -> C
C+ -> C
C+ -> C
C+ -> C
C+ -> C-
C -> C-
C -> C-
C -> C-
C -> C-
C -> C-
C -> C-
C -> C-
C -> C-
-
C- -> UR
C- -> UR
C- -> UR
C- -> UR
C- -> UR
C- -> UR
C- -> UR

Majors Changes

Spolier

C -> B
(+3 Subrankings)
Pecharunt's high rise in viability can be attributed to Dragapult leaving the tier, meaning some competition leaves for it to make it's debut as a respectable Ghost-type. With the ability to act as a sponge to a majority of physical Pokemon like Ogerpon-Wellspring and Zamazenta, along with being an annoying disruptor and pivot with Malignant Chain and Parting Shot respectively, it's merits and worth have risen in the eyes of the public in hope of checking the former Pokemon along with being solid in general. Other sets such as Nasty Plot may have merit as well, but it's in tough competition in Gholdengo, with the only thing Pecharunt offering is its higher Speed tier.

A+ -> S-
(+1 Subrankings)
Putting up some crazy numbers across all tournaments and having a crazy reputation in general, Gliscor has once again risen to S- for it's obnoxious tendencies to Spike up against teams, spread Toxic, and generally be an annoyance to face. Most of its success can be said without even needing to say any word, look at any game and you'll see why this Pokemon is worthy of being in S-.

B -> B- / B -> C+ / B- -> C-
(-1 Subrankings) / (-2 Subrankings) / (-3 Subrankings)
Remnants from the disastrous Tera metagame we left behind us, most of these Pokemon have fallen out of their prime due to them well...not being able to Tera anymore! Archaludon can stack too much weaknesses on Rain and can be very vulnerable in general, having to often outplay and hope it cannot be stopped; otherwise it'll be pretty awkward. Iron Crown is out of luck with Gholdengo around as the new Tapu Lele wall and grieves the Protect Gliscor + Ferrothorn metagame, and has a general weakness to the hazard stack that's so present, and if wearing Heavy-Duty Boots you lose the opportunity to use other items that'd benefit you more like Assault Vest or a Z-Move. Garganacl is the biggest loser of all, with its Rock-type now never changing leaving it's old win-con methods with Curse and Iron Defense in the past, only having Stealth Rock as it's most effective set. Salt Cure is the only thing keeping it afloat, it has genuinely became bottom of the barrel now. Good riddance am I right? Totally not salty...

Feel free to discuss any questions you have regarding these shifts ask as myself (or other members of the VR council) for more insight! Until next time!
Edit: For some clarification, Mega Latios rose and Mega Latias dropped. For future reference, the eye color determines which form is which; red being Latios and yellow being Latias!

 

[TBE]

With the conclusion of NDBD and the first stage of Majors finished, the VR has been given another update to accommodate current metagame trends. There's only a couple new Pokemon, but some pretty noticeable changes throughout the whole list, so take a look!
Template of this post stolen from SV OU's recent VR update

The Sheet

Newly Added

Newly Added

UR -> C-
UR -> C-

Rises

Rises

A+ -> S-
A -> A+
A- -> A
A- -> A
UR -> A
-
B+ -> A-
B+ -> A-
B -> B+
B -> B+
B -> B+
B -> B+
B- -> B
B- -> B
-
C -> B
C+ -> B-
C -> C+
C- -> C+

Drops

Drops

S- -> Banned
-
A -> A-
A -> A-
A -> A-
-
B -> B-
B -> B-
B -> C+
B- -> C+
B- -> C+
B- -> C+
B- -> C
B- -> C-
-
C+ -> C
C+ -> C
C+ -> C
C+ -> C
C+ -> C-
C -> C-
C -> C-
C -> C-
C -> C-
C -> C-
C -> C-
C -> C-
C -> C-
-
C- -> UR
C- -> UR
C- -> UR
C- -> UR
C- -> UR
C- -> UR
C- -> UR

Majors Changes

Spolier

C -> B
(+3 Subrankings)
Pecharunt's high rise in viability can be attributed to Dragapult leaving the tier, meaning some competition leaves for it to make it's debut as a respectable Ghost-type. With the ability to act as a sponge to a majority of physical Pokemon like Ogerpon-Wellspring and Zamazenta, along with being an annoying disruptor and pivot with Malignant Chain and Parting Shot respectively, it's merits and worth have risen in the eyes of the public in hope of checking the former Pokemon along with being solid in general. Other sets such as Nasty Plot may have merit as well, but it's in tough competition in Gholdengo, with the only thing Pecharunt offering is its higher Speed tier.

A+ -> S-
(+1 Subrankings)
Putting up some crazy numbers across all tournaments and having a crazy reputation in general, Gliscor has once again risen to S- for it's obnoxious tendencies to Spike up against teams, spread Toxic, and generally be an annoyance to face. Most of its success can be said without even needing to say any word, look at any game and you'll see why this Pokemon is worthy of being in S-.

B -> B- / B -> C+ / B- -> C-
(-1 Subrankings) / (-2 Subrankings) / (-3 Subrankings)
Remnants from the disastrous Tera metagame we left behind us, most of these Pokemon have fallen out of their prime due to them well...not being able to Tera anymore! Archaludon can stack too much weaknesses on Rain and can be very vulnerable in general, having to often outplay and hope it cannot be stopped; otherwise it'll be pretty awkward. Iron Crown is out of luck with Gholdengo around as the new Tapu Lele wall and grieves the Protect Gliscor + Ferrothorn metagame, and has a general weakness to the hazard stack that's so present, and if wearing Heavy-Duty Boots you lose the opportunity to use other items that'd benefit you more like Assault Vest or a Z-Move. Garganacl is the biggest loser of all, with its Rock-type now never changing leaving it's old win-con methods with Curse and Iron Defense in the past, only having Stealth Rock as it's most effective set. Salt Cure is the only thing keeping it afloat, it has genuinely became bottom of the barrel now. Good riddance am I right? Totally not salty...

Feel free to discuss any questions you have regarding these shifts ask as myself (or other members of the VR council) for more insight! Until next time!
Edit: For some clarification, Mega Latios rose and Mega Latias dropped. For future reference, the eye color determines which form is which; red being Latios and yellow being Latias!

I agree with most of the changes, think that no fini rise is kind of ridiculous. I’m not sure what is considered when the council is discussing a mons ranking or if it is just random and based on personal preference. Which is fine considering the council is made up of competent players but still leaves me confused like how is primarina over tapu fini? How did Fini not see any rise at all.. it has won many games in majors (I didn’t pay attention to ssnl so can’t attest) and it’s still a consistent performer on ladder. Mega Lix seems like larp lmao but I won’t knock a shitmon getting some love. I’m glad Melm was raised, I feel like haven’t seen a lot of people talking about it but it’s really obnoxious with the right set. Lastly Pech flew under the radar for me, haven’t tried it but makes sense in this meta a very bulky physically defensive pivot is nice and it doesn’t overlap with waters

 

[Heatranator]

A- -> A

FayaWizard

 

[FayaWizard]

People will see the truth eventually