Resource SV National Dex Monotype Viability Rankings [May 2025]

[Neko]

SV National Dex Monotype Viability Rankings
(Last updated: 18 May 2025)


Welcome to the National Dex Monotype Viability Rankings! Pokemon are ranked based upon how viable they are relative to the other Pokemon you have available on a particular type. The Pokemon in A Rank are more viable than those in B Rank, but that does not mean B Rank Pokemon aren't useful or have a valuable niche. Anything that is ranked must be usable and have some value that prevents it from being outclassed. Most Pokemon are placed into one of six different rankings: S, A+, A, B, C, and D. Some Pokemon aren’t listed either because they are either completely outclassed or haven't been ranked yet. Pokemon are ranked separately for each type. For example, Normal teams love having access to Mega Pidgeot's speed and STAB Hurricane to check Fighting-types, but Flying teams have limited interest in Mega Pidgeot because there are no need/superior options for its role; therefore Mega Pidgeot would be ranked separately for each type.​

General / Write-up Rules

• Flaming will not be tolerated. Please respectfully debate each other's nominations.
• Post smartly, don't just be like "I like Dubwool, so it should be in S Tier!"
• Stay on topic. This thread is intended for the discussion of how viable Pokemon are relative to each other, which does involve sometimes referring to Pokemon as broken or extremely good. The National Dex Monotype metagame discussion thread is good for posting about whether a Pokemon is too broken, so make sure to frame your posts appropriately.
• Please only nominate rank changes for Pokemon that you have direct experience using. Do not use theory or on-paper ideas.
• Avoid posting very brief and simple questions such as "Why is Porygon2 S Rank? It sucks!" The Simple Questions and Simple Answers thread is the perfect place to ask your simple question to get a simple answer!

SV National Dex Monotype VR Council: These people will have the final say if a decision by the community cannot be reached or a Pokemon is completely misplaced. If you have any questions or need help, please contact these people.

• Bka Onon
• CrossHeart
• Mateeus
• Neko
• style.css
• Sunnyboi0

How to Rank

• Include the Pokemon you're rating, the type, and what rank you want it to be.
• Explain as to why you put it in that rank and how it fares in Monotype. (Why should it be ranked lower or higher?)

SV National Dex Monotype Viability Rankings (in alphabetical order):

Bug

S Rank
Kleavor
Volcarona

A+ Rank
Buzzwole
Mega Pinsir
Mega Scizor

A Rank
Araquanid
Galvantula
Lokix
Scizor

B Rank
Heracross
Mega Heracross
Ribombee
Vikavolt

C Rank
Durant
Forretress
Golisopod
Scolipede
Slither Wing

D Rank
Armaldo
Centiskorch
Frosmoth
Vivillon
Yanmega

Dark

S Rank
Meowscarada

A+ Rank
Mandibuzz
Mega Sableye

A Rank
Greninja
Hydreigon
Mega Tyranitar
Moltres-Galar
Muk-Alola
Ting-Lu
Weavile

B Rank
Bisharp
Grimmsnarl
Roaring Moon
Samurott-Hisui
Zarude

C Rank
Krookodile
Mega Sharpedo
Overqwil
Tyranitar

D Rank
Crawdaunt
Drapion
Incineroar
Iron Jugulis
Lokix
Mega Houndoom

Dragon

S Rank
Goodra-Hisui

A+ Rank
Archaludon
Garchomp
Kyurem
Roaring Moon

A Rank
Kommo-o
Latias
Mega Altaria
Mega Latios

B Rank
Dragalge
Dragonite
Latios
Mega Latias
Walking Wake

C Rank
Hydreigon
Mega Garchomp
Raging Bolt

D Rank
Cyclizar
Hydrapple
Salamence
Zygarde-10%

Electric

S Rank
Iron Hands
Tapu Koko
Zapdos

A+ Rank
Raichu-Alola
Regieleki
Rotom-Wash
Zeraora

A Rank
Raging Bolt

B Rank
Magnezone
Rotom-Mow
Sandy Shocks

C Rank
Golem-Alola
Iron Thorns
Pawmot
Thundurus

D Rank
Kilowattrel
Mega Manectric
Rotom-Frost
Rotom-Heat
Toxtricity
Xurkitree

Fairy

S Rank
Iron Valiant
Klefki
Mega Diancie
Tapu Bulu

A+ Rank
Tapu Koko
Tapu Lele

A Rank
Azumarill

B Rank
Clefable
Enamorus
Mimikyu
Tapu Fini

C Rank
Hatterene
Ninetales-Alola
Primarina
Ribombee
Tinkaton

D Rank
Enamorus-Therian
Fezandipiti
Grimmsnarl
Mega Gardevoir
Togekiss
Weezing-Galar

Fighting

S Rank
Great Tusk
Iron Hands
Iron Valiant

A+ Rank
Mega Gallade
Sneasler

A Rank
Keldeo
Kommo-o
Lilligant-Hisui

B Rank
Breloom
Okidogi
Terrakion
Urshifu-Rapid-Strike
Zapdos-Galar

C Rank
Buzzwole
Cobalion
Hawlucha
Heracross

D Rank
Flamigo
Gallade
Infernape
Pawmot
Quaquaval
Slither Wing
Toxicroak

Fire

S Rank
Heatran
Volcarona

A+ Rank
Blacephalon
Mega Charizard X
Torkoal

A Rank
Ceruledge
Cinderace
Iron Moth
Victini

B Rank
Arcanine-Hisui
Mega Charizard Y
Skeledirge
Volcanion

C Rank
Marowak-Alola
Moltres
Ninetales
Rotom-Heat
Scovillain

D Rank
Armarouge
Incineroar
Infernape
Talonflame
Tauros-Paldea-Fire

Flying

S Rank
Gliscor
Tornadus-Therian

A+ Rank
Celesteela
Enamorus
Mega Aerodactyl
Moltres-Galar

A Rank
Corviknight
Dragonite
Landorus
Landorus-Therian
Mega Charizard Y
Zapdos

B Rank
Articuno
Mantine
Skarmory
Thundurus-Therian
Zapdos-Galar

C Rank
Gyarados
Mandibuzz
Moltres
Thundurus

D Rank
Enamorus-Therian
Flamigo
Hawlucha
Iron Jugulis
Kilowattrel
Pelipper

Ghost

S Rank
Gholdengo
Mimikyu

A+ Rank
Ceruledge
Corsola-Galar
Mega Sableye
Sinistcha

A Rank
Blacephalon
Brambleghast
Skeledirge
Zoroark-Hisui

B Rank
Gengar
Pecharunt
Shedinja

C Rank
Aegislash
Froslass
Golurk
Jellicent
Marowak-Alola
Runerigus

D Rank
Basculegion
Basculegion-F
Dhelmise
Mega Banette
Polteageist

Grass

S Rank
Ferrothorn
Mega Venusaur
Meowscarada

A+ Rank
Ogerpon-Cornerstone

A Rank
Brambleghast
Celebi
Lilligant-Hisui
Whimsicott

B Rank
Breloom
Hydrapple
Ogerpon-Wellspring
Sinistcha
Zarude

C Rank
Cradily
Decidueye-Hisui
Rillaboom
Rotom-Mow
Serperior

D Rank
Decidueye
Iron Leaves
Tapu Bulu
Toedscruel

Ground

S Rank
Landorus
Clodsire

A+ Rank
Excadrill
Garchomp
Mamoswine

A Rank
Gastrodon
Great Tusk
Hippowdon
Landorus-Therian
Mega Garchomp

B Rank
Gliscor
Iron Treads
Mega Steelix
Ting-Lu

C Rank
Nidoking
Quagsire
Sandy Shocks
Seismitoad
Ursaluna

D Rank
Golurk
Krookodile
Mega Camerupt
Runerigus
Toedscruel
Trapinch
Zygarde-10%

Ice

S Rank
Kyurem
Ninetales-Alola
Weavile

A+ Rank
Piloswine

A Rank
Articuno
Cetitan
Darmanitan-Galar

B Rank
Avalugg
Cloyster
Mamoswine
Sandslash-Alola

C Rank
Arctozolt
Rotom-Frost

D Rank
Froslass
Frosmoth
Glastrier
Lapras

Normal

S Rank
Ditto
Porygon2
Staraptor

A+ Rank
Mega Lopunny
Ursaluna

A Rank
Blissey
Chansey
Mega Pidgeot
Zoroark-Hisui

B Rank
Porygon-Z
Terapagos

C Rank
Bewear
Diggersby
Smeargle

D Rank
Heliolisk
Indeedee
Maushold
Meloetta

Poison

S Rank
Mega Venusaur
Muk-Alola

A+ Rank
Crobat
Sneasler
Toxapex

A Rank
Clodsire
Nidoking
Slowking-Galar
Weezing-Galar

B Rank
Iron Moth
Nihilego
Okidogi

C Rank
Amoonguss
Gengar
Glimmora
Munkidori
Overqwil
Pecharunt
Salazzle

D Rank
Drapion
Scolipede
Skuntank
Slowbro-Galar

Psychic

S Rank
Jirachi
Tapu Lele

A+ Rank
Iron Boulder
Mega Gallade
Slowbro

A Rank
Celebi
Deoxys-Speed
Latias
Latios
Slowking-Galar
Victini

B Rank
Alakazam
Hatterene
Iron Crown
Mega Alakazam
Mega Latias
Mew

C Rank
Armarouge
Bronzong
Iron Leaves
Mega Gardevoir
Mega Latios
Reuniclus
Slowking

D Rank
Cresselia
Deoxys-Defense
Gallade
Indeedee
Mega Slowbro
Meloetta
Metagross
Necrozma
Orbeetle
Scream Tail

Rock

S Rank
Iron Boulder
Mega Diancie
Ogerpon-Cornerstone

A+ Rank
Arcanine-Hisui
Shuckle

A Rank
Garganacl
Nihilego

B Rank
Coalossal
Glimmora
Golem-Alola
Mega Aerodactyl
Omastar
Terrakion
Tyranitar

C Rank
Kleavor
Minior
Rhyperior
Stakataka

D Rank
Cradily
Drednaw
Iron Thorns
Lycanroc-Dusk

Steel

S Rank
Gholdengo
Heatran

A+ Rank
Celesteela
Ferrothorn
Goodra-Hisui
Iron Treads
Mega Scizor
Skarmory

A Rank
Archaludon
Corviknight
Excadrill

B Rank
Aegislash
Jirachi
Melmetal

C Rank
Bisharp
Empoleon
Iron Crown
Klefki

D Rank
Lucario
Magnezone
Stakataka
Tinkaton

Water

S Rank
Empoleon

A+ Rank
Greninja
Keldeo
Swampert
Ogerpon-Wellspring
Toxapex

A Rank
Barraskewda
Manaphy
Mega Gyarados
Mega Swampert
Pelipper
Samurott-Hisui
Tapu Fini
Urshifu-Rapid-Strike

B Rank
Basculegion-F
Dondozo
Gastrodon
Gyarados
Mega Sharpedo
Slowking

C Rank
Alomomola
Azumarill
Crawdaunt
Golisopod
Kingdra
Lanturn
Mantine
Mega Slowbro
Primarina
Quagsire
Rotom-Wash
Suicune
Volcanion

D Rank
Araquanid
Cloyster
Politoed
Quaquaval
Seismitoad
Slowbro
Tentacruel
Walking Wake

 

[Tico]

I agree for the most part, I just wonder, what does Grass Celebi offer compared to the other B tiers besides a stab Psychic?

It is one of the best special attackers avaliable to Grass, has access to Nasty Plot and usefull coverage in Psychic, Earth Power and HP Fire to break through Poison- and Steel-types that otherwise are annoying to Grass teams.

 

[DimLug]

It is one of the best special attackers avaliable to Grass, has access to Nasty Plot and usefull coverage in Psychic, Earth Power and HP Fire to break through Poison- and Steel-types that otherwise are annoying to Grass teams.

Between HP Fire on Mega Venusaur, High Horsepower on Rillaboom, Technician Bulldoze from Breloom, and various Fighting type coverage from Rillaboom, Ferrothorn, Breloom, and Zarude, I can't imagine Celebi particularly standing out on its own in that matchup beyond threatening Corviknight and Celesteela with a +2 HP Fire. Celebi after a NP boost can certainly be threatening. The problem is, there isn't much of anything on Steel that Celebi can comfortably set up against. Other than scarfless Excadrill, Knock-less Ferrothorn, and Celesteela, almost (if not) everything else threatens Celebi too much for it to set up safely.

Now in the Poison matchup, Celebi is actually rather useful between STAB Psychic, Earth Power, and Natural Cure, I absolutely agree there. But, B tier, to me anyway, makes Celebi look more versatile and useful than it is actually is when outside of those two matchups, at least compared with the other things that are in B. Cradily is incredibly useful for the type as it's your go-to special wall and can take some hazard-setting pressure off of Ferrothorn by running Stealth Rocks, and it can spread Toxic around. Breloom got notable buffs this gen in the form of Close Combat, Gunk Shot, and a Bulldoze that's boosted by Technician. Bulk Up Zarude is still a potent setup sweeper for the type. I don't think Celebi is bad, but compared to these three it doesn't bring a whole lot to the table outside of 1-2 matchups. That's my viewpoint anyway. Could be personal bias, but I've never had remarkable success with Celebi.

 

[Charmriah]

Hey everyone! I'm gonna focus on the electric rankings,

Raichu alola A>B
I don't think this is an A rank mon for the type. It's only difference from regi is coverage that it CAN hit ground types super effectively, This niche however is undercut that with terrain it hits significantly less harder than leki and it has a problem of needing the be modest to hit hard with or without terrain. Leading to speed issues against the overall very fast meta we are in right now. It;s role as the terrain abuser is done better by leki in 95% of situations as its natural speed outspeeds most scarfers and its overall damage is more important than raichu. Who even if they can hit a would be ground switch in it doesn't usually kill what's in front of it anyways, meaning you get more value of switching into rotom/zapdos/iron hands anyways and saving your terrain abuser for more troublesome Pokémon for the type.
252+ SpA Life Orb Raichu-Alola Rising Voltage (140 BP) vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Dragapult in Electric Terrain: 214-253 (67.5 - 79.8%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
252 SpA Life Orb Transistor Regieleki Rising Voltage (140 BP) vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Dragapult in Electric Terrain: 304-359 (95.8 - 113.2%) -- 75% chance to OHKO
252 SpA Life Orb Transistor Regieleki Rising Voltage (140 BP) vs. 248 HP / 248+ SpD Assault Vest Slowking-Galar in Electric Terrain: 218-257 (55.4 - 65.3%) -- guaranteed 2HKO
252+ SpA Life Orb Raichu-Alola Rising Voltage (140 BP) vs. 248 HP / 248+ SpD Assault Vest Slowking-Galar in Electric Terrain: 153-183 (38.9 - 46.5%) -- guaranteed 3HKO
these calcs are to name some of the many instances of trouble some MUs where raichu just doesn't have the power to break through teams like leki can. The coverage is generally only valuable against certain MUs, but not enough to warrant the same vaule as zera.


Which leads me to my next mon
Regieleki B->A
For the reasons I stated why raichu should be B is the reasoning for leki to be A. It is the best terrain abuser that electric has with added benefits of way more damage to immediately end games and lacks the weakness to sucker punch/shadow sneak. It also has hazard removal which means in MUS, were you can't immediately sweep due either to a ground type or defensive resist you can remove hazards allowing electric to play the long game if it has to. It has access to ancient power which can be very useful for catching rock neutral/weak electric immunities for chip damage that other electric friends such as rotom-w/m and zapdos can pick them off. Another added benefit is that it has access to Extreme speed, while I'm not saying that regi is 6-0ing anyone with that espeed, being able to revenge kill weakened threats such as scarfers like the protean users that would otherwise be somewhat of a haste to take down especially if terrain is not up for raichu-alola. Its rising voltage/volt switch synergy is much better with an overall team vs raichu-alola having 4 move slot syndrome.


Iron Hands B->S
https://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen9nationaldexmonotype-1795504933
I put this replay at the top to emphasize how important iron hands is to the entire typing as a whole. Iron hands is just as important as a zapdos, rotom w and tapu koko. Iron hands can provide bolt beam coverage with the added benefit of being the bulkiest pokemon that electric has access to. With an assault vest it can easily sponge special attacks while still having great general bulk to bounce of the physical ones. In all match ups iron hands is gonna be able to provide value. If it can't take out what's infront of it, it sure can make a dent so a teammate can. Zapdos and rotom can't switch in? Iron hands is there to save the day and scare the living daylights out of whatever it's switching in to. It gives an electric a unique defensive core. It can sponge dark,rock hits for its neutral teammates of rotom and zapdos. Iron hands threatens to solo entire types with its bulk, damage output and coverage. If not soloing the entire type it causes so many problems for the other type that it's teammates can function at their roles with maximum capabilities or give them the wiggle room to try others. The HO playstyle of electric gets complimented by something that can either be a pivot for whatever the sweepers can't immediately take out or resume the carnage and hit whatever leki/raichu/tapu koko/zera can't. A team without iron hands is a team that can't function with the power creep of gen 9. Things got a lot bulkier and being able to even play the long game against bulky teams with this type wasn't much of a thing a generation ago. This mon synergies with every single mon that this type has to offer. That can only be said about the other S tier types, therefore I believe it should be S.

 

[userawesome_]

Hi guys! I'm not too experienced with forum posting but I do want to talk a bit about Iron Jugulis.

Iron Jugulis D>C
I believe that Iron Jugulis is almost as good, if not slightly better, than Hydreigon on some teams. It's amazing with specs and it's also significantly faster then Hydreigon, which can be useful. Even though its' typing does make it take more damage from Stealth Rock, its' Flying typing also removes its' Bug, Dragon and Fighting weaknesses, which in my opinion are quite common move types (Close Combat, Draco Meteor/Outrage, etc.)

With Choice Specs, Iron Jugulis can hit very hard, and it also possesses more coverage than a sub np Hydreigon. Agreed, the choice lock can sometimes be inconvenient, but if you have a clean switch-in and you know your opponent can't do much against you, a hit from Iron Jugulis with the Choice Specs can be lethal.

I do agree that sometimes, a sub np Hydreigon can be superior to an Iron Jugulis. However, I personally have been in many situations where Hydreigon gets outsped and killed. And again, although a Hydreigon can hit very hard with a Nasty Plot, without a Nasty Plot it may not pick up the KO. Furthermore, even if Hydreigon can outspeed an opposing Pokemon and it gets off a Substitute, that doesn't guarantee that the opponent can break the Substitute in one hit, therefore giving Hydreigon no opportunity to setup a Nasty Plot. Bringing back what I said earlier, Hydreigon can be outsped and OHKO'd, making it essentially useless if an opponent can both OHKO and outspeed Hydreigon. This is inefficient especially when Hydreigon is your final Pokemon.

Another little thing I want to point out is that Dark teams (or at least my Dark team) doesn't usually carry much Water or Flying coverage. This makes Iron Jugulis useful for coverage. Also, with a specs-boosted Hydro Pump or Hurricane, Iron Jugulis can, again, hit quite hard even not super-effectively. That is why I believe Iron Jugulis should be put into C or even B rank.

 

[Tico]

text

My bad, i didn't mean the matchup against Poison and Steel teams, just against Poison- and Steel-types in general, especially physically defensive Poison- and Steel-types. Surely Grass has a lot of options to deal with Pokémon of these types, but you usually gonna have a hard time against physically defensive Pokémon, that's where Celebi shines because it is the best special attacker avaliable to Grass with a good setup move.
I think that B rank for Celebi is fine because it fills an important role in every team and, while it isn't the most viable Pokémon in the type, surely it is better than the other C ranks. Comparing with the other Pokémon like you did, Breloom is usually outclassed by Rillaboom and Zarude by Meowscarada. I feel that when you use Cradily your team gets too passive so i prefer not using it at all because i feel that Mega Venusaur + Ferrothorn already do a great job dealing with most of the metagames threats and use the extra slot to fit something more offensive.
Not sure if i could explain with the right words this time, but i just feel that, while Celebi isn't one of the best Pokémon, it surely is on the same level as Breloom, Cradily, and Zarude on Grass because it fills a role that is lacking in the type.

 

[Neko]

Hi, in an effort to clean up the VR, the following Pokemon have been unranked.

Bug
Its frailty and lower power level has caught up to it, aside from Bug teams having a decent amount of speedy/setup/priority options

Dark
M.Sableye exists, and the higher powerlevels means base Sableye cannot keep up.
, Dark teams are better off answering behemoths like Mega Swampert and Melmetal offensively

Dragon
It used to be a good scarfer that murks Pokemon with infiltrator/switcheroo while also being able to drop a draco on Greninja, but due to vulnerability to Stealth Rocks and generally weak/inconsistent firepower it goes unranked.

Electric
Webs Elec isnt good anymore
When Iron Hands and Zeraora exists
Z-Hypnosis, Scarf sets arent good anymore.

Fairy
It doesnt seem to have anything going for it that Klefki cant do. As a Physical setupper, other team mates like Tapu Bulu, Azumarill, and Mimikyu do it better

Fighting
Screens Fighting wont be a thing, and Iron Valiant can countersweep Electric teams in its stead.

Fire
Fire has no reason to run it over all the other Megas, and you have Alolan Marowak for the Electric immunity

Flying
An entry hazard lead / scarfer that has gone a little bit past its expiration date
The Ice neutrality isn't quite cutting it these days
No more screens flying either

Grass
Bootleg M.Ven isnt quite cutting it these days
Debateably a worse Spiker + Rapid Spin user compared to Brambleghast. Murking M.Sab and Hatterene are cool though, but its not enough to make it remain D-rank
Cannot compete for a slot on Grass' very based defensive core

Ground
, Needs too much support to work
Fails to be a good water check, so...

Ice
There's better Slush Rush users these days
Ice is too offensive to invest on a defensive slot that cant help in some matchups, unlike Piloswine (who provides a defense againt Elec + Flamethrowers) or Cloyster (that sets Spikes).
Checking Scizor and Freeze-dry are a little bit easier now

Poison
Shiny new toy syndrome happened and it was apparent that they can't be slotted on Poison teams without murking the team badly.
RIP
A not-so promising Kingambit check. Might return at a later date

Psychic
Too niche to be worth using
Webs Psychic isnt really good. Might return at a later date
Getting a good 6th mon>Revival
Outclassed by Slowbro

Rock
Outclassed by better shell smashers, entry hazard leads, and scarfers
Circumstantial Setup sweepers. Might return at a later date

Steel
It has nothing to do on Steel teams

Water
Not needed in any team composition
Shell Smashers that are a little underwhelming

Stay tuned this weekend for the updates on S, A, B, C tiers

 

[Neko]

Bug
C->D: A setup sweeper that is harder to get going compared to Scizor and Mega Pinsir, notably missing the needed damage thresholds (or reliance on inaccurate moves) to beat common physical walls. It also somehow wants a Z-move, a Life Orb, and 6 move slots at the same time, making it harder to be broadly usable than the other Pokemon in C.
C->D: Outclassed as entry hazard setter by Galvantula and Araquanid, which provide more for Bug teams due to their extra firepower or utility.

Dark
A->S: An easy fit for both HO and Balanced teams alike due to its ability to readily revenge-kill threats like Kommo-o, Iron Valiant, and Mega Lopunny. Also has an extremely good speed tier for a Choice Scarf user, outpacing Regieleki, Mega Swampert, and Adamant Excadrill.
UR->B: Weavile is back in business after Chien-Pao got the boot.
C->D: With Skuntank gaining Toxic Spikes this gen, the only reason to use Drapion would be Knock Off. It also doesn't help that both of them are quite inferior to Alolan Muk in terms of dealing with Fairies like Tapu Lele.
C->D: Only truly useful in the mirror, as Kingambit does the Sucker Punch role better. Choiced sets are also a liability for Dark teams, while SD sets are iffy and unreliable due to the existence of Scald.
B->C: Ting-Lu is more splashable and more resilient against most special attackers, bar Volcarona, has access to Spikes and phazing, and is an Electric immunity that's excellent so that Dark teams don't get overrun by Volt Switch.
B->C: Blame Weedcat. It can still perform as a bulky setup sweeper, though.
A->B: Protean nerf invalidated sets that would've let Greninja overwhelm types such as Flying and Poison. As a Choice Scarf user, it now faces stiff competition with Meowscarada, who deals with most Pokemon that threaten Dark better.

Dragon
A->S: An excellent Pokemon that should be in every Dragon team due to its great resistances and immunity to Dragon. Its spread also doesnt relegate it to any particular role, which lets it be a setup sweeper or supporting Pokemon depending on the team's needs.
S->A B->A: The prevalence of Dark-types, as well as the generally higher Speed tier and bulk this generation brings, spells doom for Latias' viability. With the introduction of Roaring Moon, a much faster Choice Scarf user that can notably take down Iron Valiant, Tapu Lele, and Mega Diancie after some time, while also being able to pivot out of unfavorable swap-ins with U-turn, Latias is no longer the de-facto Choice Scarf user for Dragon teams nowadays.
B->C: Hydreigon is an alternative if you want to deal with Steel and Clodsire-less Poison at the same time, but Kommo-o's ability to boost its Speed makes it harder to deal with in the long run. It still provides a Ground-immune teammate for Dragon teams, at least.
UR->B: Walking Wake is quite underwhelming due to its slightly suboptimal Speed tier, but it has useful resistances and good coverage, particularly with Flamethrower.

Electric
B->A: Its phenomenal bulk coupled with its offensive presence lets it check threats like Dragonite, makes it a good 6th Pokemon on Elec builds.

Fairy
A->S: Its speed, ability that meshes well with Tapu Koko, and flexibility in terms of set makes it an excellent pick for Fairy teams.
A->S: Mega Mawile got the boot, making her the best Mega for the type + Magic Bounce being great as ever with Spikes getting thrown around by everyone right now

Flying
UR->D: Niche, but still barely usable due to its ability to murk Kommo-o and bulky teams alike and Heal Bell.

Ghost
A->S: Its a catch-all solution for a lot of threats ghost has right now.
B->S: Good speed and setup potential (Z/Sub CM sets), and is currently the fastest good mon ghost has since Flutter Mane disappeared :)
UR->A: Its pretty nifty because it provides a way to not get swept by Shadow Sneak late-game, also a decent Choiced user because of Trick
B->C: Its...not what we'd hope for, notably struggling to setup Spikes and clear away entry hazards due to its frailty
A->B: Falls behind Gholdengo offensively, leaving its viability floating on its defensive sets

Grass
D->C: It is a passable entry hazard remover that can also stack hazards alongside Ferrothorn and it gives you a sweet Hurricane / Blizzard immunity.
UR->B: Can beat a lot of Grass'es headaches (Corv, Poison's core) with the SD set, making it a good alternative to Celebi

Ground
A->S: It fits on every Ground archetype, and is now able to set up hazards as well.
S->A: Just a drop due to how awesome Gastrodon is, and that its slightly slower now.
B -> A: Can replace Excadrill on sandless teams, and has the speed to murk opposing Pokemon such as Landorus too because of its coverage. Also has Knock Off for spinblockers.
C->B: Sandless ground is more viable than ever.
UR->C: We forgot this mon was a thing. Checking Azumarill and being a Water-killer is its niche.

Ice
D->A: at home:
D->C: Great blanket check to lots of stuff that Ice has trouble with, although it's very hard to fit.
UR->D: Snow Defense + Body Press + Screens + Leech Seed + good offensive stats.

Normal
UR->A: Fighting-type immunity, can pull off lots of sets with its decent Speed too.

Poison
B->A: Its still a great offensive option that Poison teams can afford to have.

Psychic
D->B: Great Pokemon for HO Psychic, better than Victini in that regard with its CM Weakness Policy set
UR->B: Makes Elec matchup a little more doable, while also pressuring Ground and Water teams quite well.

Rock
B->A: An oversight due to Garganacl hype, webs Rock is unfort still its best archetype.
S->A: It doesnt help that much in the current best archetype for Rock, and while its great, its not quite as good as Mega Diancie

Steel
B->A: Supreme Overlord makes it a great Pokemon to turn the tides to your favor late-game. Also has great bulk, and enough speed to dunk on walls.

Water
UR->B: Is a funny cteam to Fire teams without Volcanion, but at the same time we currently have a good scarfer in Greninja. Not folding to Flower Trick is another good niche this catgon has, but it would be much better if it had a slightly higher speedtier. Its access to Flamethrower/Hurricane makes it not too bad on rainless/rain builds, but most of the time you don't have space for him. [totally didnt write an extremely long thing for it]
C->B: It's got a lot of value for Rainless teams that don't want to be forced to run Mantine as the consistent hazard control + can snowball really quickly with Aqua Step + CC while still being a sturdy Dark resist.
C->A: Has access to Spikes, is a Knock Off blocker, and helps Water teams stick together against scary Special threats.

The OP will be updated tomorrow reflecting these rankings. Thank you for your support!

Decidueye (Grass): Untiered -> D

This was denied due to the sudden introduction of Iron Leaves, which took away what little remained of Decid's niche.

Raichu alola A>B

Also denied due to the increase of good Ground-types this gen, making it an imperative to have coverage against it.

Regieleki B->A

Denied for the same reasons as above, though this was partially the reason why it was not dropped. Great work!

Iron Hands B->S

Received a rank up.

Iron Jugulis D>C

The vulnerability to Hazards + lack of key resistances Dark actually needs made me reject this. If Galarian Moltres gets banned at some point, I would review Jugulis' viability again.

 

[TTK]

VR Slate just happened but I'm making a VR nom for Exploud UR -> C


Exploud has become a forgotten pokemon since it finds itself outclassed by the best special attackers on the type such as Mega Pidgeot and Porygon-Z but I personally believe that this mon has more use than everything in the D tier like Arboliva and Mega Audino. Scrappy Boomburst is a destructive breaker and Normal has a lot of good pivots like Teleport Blissey and U-turn Staraptor which can get Exploud in very easily. The reason why it's obviously a C tier mon is because its too slow and compared to Normal's more consistent offensive threats, they have dual typings which give them useful resistances that they can switch in on like Lopunny's dark resistance or Diggersby's electric immunity but Exploud has none of that other than a Ghost immunity and it isn't the bulkiest guy in the world.

This replay here can showcase how each time Exploud got in freely, it can a kill guaranteed since overall, there really isn't that many pokemon that can comfortably switch into Boomburst.

The replay here shows Exploud's damage output against one of the sturdiest spdef walls Clodsire. It may have been a crit on Boomburst but do the math or check the calcs Clodsire is always 2hkod and slower teams that types like Ground can utilise just proceed to get folded by Exploud.

 

[Neko]

What niche does articuno have on flying? It has a x4 stealth rock weakness and none of its utility options are particularly good.

Heavy-Duty Boots patches up Rock weakness, Ice neutrality makes it a funny secondary check to Kyurem (letting you pp stall it), Toxic/F-Dry/Sub is also quite annoying for Ground and Water teams in some cases. It is very, very, extremely, super situational though, but its a thing for people who believe in Pressure stall flying.

 

[Ultraman1]

VR Slate just happened but I'm making a VR nom for Exploud UR -> C


Exploud has become a forgotten pokemon since it finds itself outclassed by the best special attackers on the type such as Mega Pidgeot and Porygon-Z but I personally believe that this mon has more use than everything in the D tier like Arboliva and Mega Audino. Scrappy Boomburst is a destructive breaker and Normal has a lot of good pivots like Teleport Blissey and U-turn Staraptor which can get Exploud in very easily. The reason why it's obviously a C tier mon is because its too slow and compared to Normal's more consistent offensive threats, they have dual typings which give them useful resistances that they can switch in on like Lopunny's dark resistance or Diggersby's electric immunity but Exploud has none of that other than a Ghost immunity and it isn't the bulkiest guy in the world.

This replay here can showcase how each time Exploud got in freely, it can a kill guaranteed since overall, there really isn't that many pokemon that can comfortably switch into Boomburst.

The replay here shows Exploud's damage output against one of the sturdiest spdef walls Clodsire. It may have been a crit on Boomburst but do the math or check the calcs Clodsire is always 2hkod and slower teams that types like Ground can utilise just proceed to get folded by Exploud.

Swellow is a better Scrappy Boomburst user though :v with better speed and u-turn to keep momentum

 

[TTK]

Swellow is a better Scrappy Boomburst user though :v with better speed and u-turn to keep momentum

Swellow is weaker, Staraptor is common on Normal and stacking Normal/Flying makes Electric a tougher mu than it already is and at least Exploud can actually take hits thanks to its decent HP stat. The speed also isn't that big of a deal for the reduction in damage, normal has mega lop and hisuian zoroark as good speed control options

 

[Giyu]

C->B: Sandless ground is more viable than ever.

Seconding this, been using Mega Steelix for a bit and it's a really nice wincon.

Edit: i am very late

 

[Don Bork]

Alright I'd like to start with rethinking why Cradilly is a ranked D tier. It is a staple to Rock BO which is actually usable now due to Garganacl being used. It's here to check mons like Mega Pert on rain teams as long as it has a max Def stat. Plus having a water immunity on a Rock team is huge as the only thing that can really attack a Water team is Scarf Nihilego or a +2 Omastar with Hp Grass. Obviously you also have Garganacl to use it's Salt Cure Pressure but having a Cradilly makes your opponent think twice before clicking any water moves. With that I think Cradilly should be moved from D to either C or B.

 

[Neko]

Hi, VR update pt 1

Bug
-> A: Provides compression with Stone Axe, pivoting in U-turn, and has the ability to smack Steel-types with Close Combat. It also has a decent speedtier and power with a Choice Scarf, able to cut down threats like Mega Aerodactyl and Mega Pinsir.

Dark
-> C: Niche Spiker that absorbs Toxic Spikes, unlike Samurott-H. Intimidate is also slightly useful for Iron Valiant.
->B: Odd entry hazard lead, ok-ish scarfer that provides compression with Ceaseless Edge and is also able to OHKO threats like Mega Lopunny and Mega Diancie.

Dragon
->B: A very bulky Special wall that is a solid answer to both Ice Beam and Moonblast. Assault Vest, Curse, Acid Armor...Hisui Goodra performs various roles to help Dragon manage its harder matchups.

Electric
->D: What if we had a mon that is fast and scares the crap out of water teams. Oh wait, Alolan-Raichu and Tapu Koko do that already?

Fairy
->B: As a setup sweeper, Iron Valiant > Enamorus. However, it finds a niche as a decent mixed attacker provides Fairy teams with a decent Grass-type resist with a slightly fast speedtier as a cherry on top. Also, Healing Wish.

->C: She's ugly, bringing with her the double dance set of CM + ID, coupled with Draining Kiss and Earth Power/Mystical Fire. Still, the potential to turtle-out teams is there.

Fighting
->D: Scrappy is a tiny niche, especially with Kommo-o and Iron Valiant being able to cover for Steels and Ghosts.
->B: Victory Dance with Ice Spinner, Leaf Blade, and Close Combat is really strong, and can even put an unexpecting wall to sleep if carrying Sleep Powder.
->A: Good Toxic Spikes absorber, great scarfer that smacks Tapu Lele (and makes Slowbro think twice before swapping in due to Dire Claw), and pivot too.

Fire
->B: Rock Head with a decent Speedtier and access to Extreme Speed makes it decent. Also, 252 Atk Choice Band Arcanine-Hisui Head Smash vs. 248 HP / 252+ Def Toxapex: 180-213 (59.4 - 70.2%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Black Sludge recovery
->D: Awkward mon but we'll give it the benefit of the doubt...for now

Flying
->B: One of the few Choice Scarf users that outspeed Hisui Lilligant, who ironically beats up Flying teams at +1. Also, Healing Wish provides its team mates in Galarian Moltres and Dragonite a second chance.
->D: She's ugly, bringing with her the double dance set of CM + ID, coupled with Draining Kiss and Earth Power/Mystical Fire. Still, the potential to turtle-out teams is there. Except its worse on Flying because it has much better mons too.

Grass
->D: Would rather use SD Zarude, which beats up Steel teams much more efficiently. Still, if you do want to stack fighting-types, he's still here.
->A: Victory Dance with Ice Spinner + Close Combat is really strong, and it has Sleep Powder too to create its setup opportunities! Also, beats Flying at +1, if you find a setup opportunity
->D: Toxapex waiting room. He's more of a win-more in the Water matchup, if you haven't won it already.

Ground
->C: It beat Spectrier. 100% of the time. Also, Bear hit hard.

Normal
->B: Normal gets another W with a much scarier wallbreaker, though competes with Diggersby for a slot.
->D: Screens normal, anyone?

Poison
->C: Niche Spiker, intimidate is nice. Still, use Alolan Muk.
->B: I think GF is giving Poison tools to achieve its true form: HO. Its a decent scarfer too though, outspeeding and beating up Excadrill in sand is very notable.

Rock
->B: Toxapex, Corviknight, and Heatran, tremble in fear as the doggo blitzes through them like a Stone Axe cutting through fat.
->B: Speaking of Stone Axes, here's a Pokemon that sets rocks automatically for you. Also, pivoting.

Steel
->C: We have Ferrothorn and Melmetal for the Water resist and AV user, but a special attacker with good coverage and is helpful in the steel mirror isn't really something to scoff at.

Water
->D: Hear me out, adaptability Wave Crash guarantees a 2HKO on the entire core of Poison teams...thats good, right? As a Swift Swim user, Mega Swampert is strictly better.
->B: On the other hand, a Special Swift Swimmer that swiftly dispatches of Slowbro is cool and useful.
->C: Ceaseless Edge is a great supporting tool, is also not too shabby of a scarfer either.

Stay tuned this week for the updates on S, A, and C tiers. Will update the op by then too
EDIT: This is put on hold because we sussed Spectrier.

 

[Neko]

I forgot to update this, but the first major thing is that there will be A+ and A- ranks from here on.

Reasoning: There's too many Pokemon in NDM, and "A" tier doesnt feel the same with Pokemon that arent likely to almost always be on a team because we only have 6 slots to work with.

The "A" ranks that weren't dropped now comprises the A+ for the time being, while the drops became A-.
Bug
-> A-: Lost his job to Kleavor. Still great if you find yourself wanting Ice/Ground coverage though.

Dark
-> A-: A certain overfried chicken (Galarian Moltres) competes for Hydreigon's slot. I personally believe Hydreigon is still better on balance, but being outclassed by Goltres on screens HO archetype made it drop.

Dragon
->A+: Though undoubtedly a great mon for Dragon, Baxcalibur's usage as a stronger balance breaker with its Dragon Dance set and Hisuian Goodra's existence as an Ice Beam sponge reduces Kyurem's ubiquity in Dragon.
-> A-: Poor dragon. Healing Wish is still great, the speed tier, not so much

Electric
->A-: FadedCharm's fault. Alolan Raichu just cant keep up anymore, Barra being more common and the multitude of bulky ground types is just ;w;

Fairy
->A-: Is currently competing for a slot (with Iron Valiant, in particular) among all the new toys fairy has so far. Tapu Bulu is also sort of mostly able to handle the Ground matchup, and Iron Valiant for the Steel matchup, making the rabbit less splashable these days .

->A-: It feels more of Koko is being brought to power up Iron Valiant, rather than because its an actually great mon.

Fighting
->A+: Other Z-users make it not-so mandatory. Its still great though, and you'll encounter it like 90% of the time.
->A-: Great Tusk took its job as an entry hazard setter, Iron Hands for its ability to sponge attacks and pivot.
->A-: Choice Scarf Sneasler took his job. Choice Scarf Steel Wing nuking Mega Diancie Turn 1 will forever be a good niche though.

Fire
->A+: Moth is great, but so are like...8 other Fire types. Its not as mandatory now, but still an excellent Pokemon.
->A-: Awkward because of how good M.Zard-X is.

Flying
->A+: Galarian Moltres is competing as a special wallbreaker, defog sets by Corviknight, and taunt + pivoting feels lacking nowadays. Its fast, however, but 375 isnt that great now.
->A-: I will not make Goltres and Torn share the same room, because Torn-T is still easier to setup for success
->A-: Who? Agility sets dont even work nowadays because Barraskewda experienced a rise.

Ghost
->A-: Its less mandatory than expected
->A-: Same reason honestly.

Grass
->A+: Meow doesnt really offer as much as the other S rankers :(

Ground
->A-: Unused in sandy and is "skippable" on sandless builds
->A-: Not as mandatory now with Great Tusk having Ice coverage and Mega Lix for Ice types
->A-: A bit too passive these days

Ice
, ->A-: Can't have both on one team, Piloswine also competes with Mamoswine for a slot.

Normal
->A+: Blame Mat. Ursaluna outclasses Diggersby.

Poison
->A-: Too passive for NDM standards.

Psychic
->A+: Armarogue took its niche on HO Psychic, while Galarian Slowking can help beat down Steels and Fairies
->A-: There's just too much competition on Psychic builds.
->A-: To the point that Choice Scarf Latias is outcompeted by just hoping Choice Scarf Lele revenge-kills everything
->A-: When Basculegion-F exists and you're not a solid answer to Water anymore :(

Rock
->A-: HO Rock is just really better
->A-: Toxic Debris and stacking 2 entry hazard setters isn't really a great move
->A-: Special attacker role is shared with Omastar, and is sometimes skipped in favor of shell smashers.

Steel
->A-: Gholdengo >:(
->A-: Is...very weak. Sometimes Mold Breaker Eq and Toxics are just better (re: Scarf Excadrill:
->A-: When Steel is good enough to not use a mega-evolution.

Water
, ->A-: Rainy days are still preferrable to clear skies, so Mega Swampert remains to be the sole Elec immune at A+
Will update the op soon, TM
Thank you for your support once again

 

[lavarina]

been itching to post this for a while
D → C
Honestly I think Ribombee deserves more than just "worse webs setter". I've been spamming Bug a whole lot and the set I use for Ribombee is Choice Specs with Trick. Deals with Dragons easily once H-Goodra is down and cripples walls by switching items. I'm not confident enough to say that it's B because I've had it become deadweight a few times (mainly against the Steel matchup) but it's been doing great progress for me thanks to its special attack and good speed. Kommo-O becomes much easier to face because lord above me before Ribombee I die every time I face it.

 

[DimLug]

B -> C
As much as I love this dumb plant, I feel like it's seeing less and less popularity and I understand why. It has quite a bit going for it, namely Rock stab to beat threats like Volcarona and Mega Charizard Y. It's special bulk is still incredible and tough to break down without a very strong 2x effective hit and/or some prior setup. Stealth Rocks and Toxic are great utility moves, and a neutrality to Fire/Flying moves are very good for the type. Both of its abilities are niche but helpful; Storm Drain is cool to block Scald burns while Suction Cups stops phasing shenanigans. However, it also has a lot of flaws. For one thing, it's very passive. Majority of Cradilies only run one attack, and it's not that strong even when 2x effective at times. Sure, it can try running Earthquake for Steel types or Giga Drain as well, but it generally hates giving up it's support moves and Recover. And while Grass/Rock is an ironically decent defensive typing, it still has glaring weaknesses. It can sometimes stomach a Blizzard, but any physical Fighting, Steel, or Bug attacks easily threaten it out, and it doesn't like being hit by very strong neutral physical hits either like Flare Blitz or V-Create. As for a stealth rock setter, Ferrothorn can do that fine itself. And it's frankly dead weight into several matchups, namely Steel, Fighting and Poison stall. C tier seems more appropriate for it. Not at all a bad pokemon, it has good unique traits, but sometimes it's difficult to justify using it since it brings a big level of passivity that you may not afford if you're already running Mega Venusaur and Ferrothorn (which you definitely are). Neutrality to Hurricanes is good, but Brambleghast is straight up immune to Hurricanes AND Blizzards (and Heat Wave from Zapdos as well) and can run Spikes while Ferrothorn runs Stealth Rock.

 

[Blip_Exists]

C->B (Steel)
Hoodra can often serve as a less volatile Heatran, with no 4x weaknesses, and a fire neutrality. It has the bulk to take SE attacks, especially in conjunction with AV. Notable, it can revenge kill landourus incarnate, something that can sweep through any steel team, particularly after a gravity. Its also a decent counter to HP ground volcorona if it carries earthquake, which is useful for other steel teams, and Mega venasaur.
Hoodra is one of the best pokemon in a steel ditto. With sap sipper, it can completly wall almost every celesteela set, threaten every heatran set with earthquake, and most other steel pokemon with flamethrower.
Compared to ferrothorn, whom Hoodra tends to compete with a teamslot with, Hoodra provides a typing that deals with steels weaknesses better than ferro (ferro is weak to fire, ground, fighting, while hoodra is only weak to ground and fighting). Loosing the electric resistance is unfortunate, and using hoodra will make a team much worse against water. In return however, you have a better matchup against ground, fire and other steel teams.

Wormadam Sandy: UR->D (Bug)
Wormadam sandy cloak is bad. However, it has a small niche as being bugs only bug-ground type. Without wormadam, bug has no way to beat an electric player that plays well. Rising voltage regieleki will tear through a bug team, and while not as problematic, bug still struggles with Alolan Raichu. Wormadam Sandy can manage both of these pokemon with its typing, and KO both with earthquake. It can also threaten the likely switch to either zapdos or rotom wash with either rock blast or toxic. Wormadam can also use Earth power to try to cheese a KO against a torkoal on fire teams. While wormadam sandy is the definition of niche, it can be useful in certain circumstances, the definition of D rank.

 

[DimLug]

both of these feel like comfortable high B to A tiers for Grass teams, with the edge I would say going to cornerstone (I think both are on the same tier though, it more depends on which matchups you want to improve in. Cornerstone helps a lot with Fire, Bug, Ice, and Flying to a degree, while Hearthflame deals with Steel, Grass in the mirror, Ice as well, and Bug). Both get good setup with Swords Dance and/or Trailblaze to turn into scary sweepers. Both get nice coverage in Superpower, Knock Off, Play Rough, and Zen Headbutt. The biggest issues with both of these is they face a ton of competition as a physical attacker, but their secondary STABs (Rock and Fire respectively) I think will be enough to set them apart from the rest. They could also try to squeeze in a utility move like Spikes, Taunt or Encore.

Cornerstone: Actual strong Rock STAB is so nice because now you don't have to rely on so much to hit stuff like and . Sturdy being a built in Focus Sash kind of makes up for the fact that you almost aren't using an item like Life Orb or a Choice item, just make sure you're running Defog or Rapid Spin alongside it so that you can actually use Sturdy. I've found this guy already to singlehandedly turn the tables on certain matchups, mainly Bug and Fire (FINALLY Bug teams are at least a little more manageable now), haven't had the chance to use it against Flying or Ice teams yet.

Hearthflame: This guy feels like what should've been. It's fast (without needing Sun), hits harder, and actually has better physical STAB options than Seed Bomb and Fire Fang. Mold Breaker doesn't do a lot, but it at least means you can spam your Fire-type Ivy Cudgel into Steel teams without being a Flash Fire magnet. And you're not so pressured to run to handle in the mirror matchup anymore. Hitting Sap Sipper with your grass STAB (whether it be Trailblaze, Power Whip, Wood Hammer, Horn Leech... Ogerpon honeslty has a lot of good Grass STAB options) is cool too. Hearthflame can also take a little pressure off of Mega Venusaur and Celebi to run HP Fire.

As for , I don't think it's very good. Grass/Water doesn't really do much for you besides help with the Fire matchup (which Cornerstone already does and I'd argue it does it better) and being a "win more" option into Rock and Ground teams which you shouldn't really be struggling against regardless, though admittedly resisting both of 's STABs are kind of nice. Neutrality to Ice is cool until you realize you're a Freeze Dry away from getting deleted. Water Absorb blocks Scalds and the rare Whirlpool trapping shenanigans but provides basically nothing else. Not much else to say about it. It has awkward typing and virtually nothing that sets it apart from the other two Ogerpons. C tier at best, though I think it lands in D. It still has good coverage, good offensive stats, and dealing with Fire types is always a plus, but it faces way too much competition with not enough to help it stand out on its own. But hey, I guess if you're really struggling to deal with (if that Ground archetype even exists anymore), Wellspring is there now.

lacks a secondary STAB, but it does have the advantage of being able to hold an item at least. I could see Boots, Life orb, or Band/Scarf all being tried. Maybe it could be a decent offensive pivot with moves like Knock Off and U-Turn, but I don't know if this one gets used a lot since it has almost no outstanding traits from its competition. Like Wellspring, I think this ends up in D or C. It feels like but without the one reason you'd use Rillaboom (G-Terrain + G-Glide).

 

[Neko]

VR update post NDMPL is up! Check to see how your favorites are faring in their types in the Teal Mask metagame.

We also have added CrossHeart and Bka Onon to the VR team, big thanks to Sunnyboi0 Tico Mateeus style.css for their input as usual.

D → C

Shot up much higher due to Bka Onon

B -> C

This is done

C->B (Steel

I agree :3

Wormadam Sandy: UR->D (Bug)

Denied, you can overwhelm electric with a well-timed Volcarona instead. Alternatively, you can use Lokix if you really hate the Eleki/Alolan Raichu

Ogerpon-H became S-tier, though Ogerpon-C isnt too far behind.

Once again, thankie for giving your thoughts on the VR It makes my job much easier too

Feel free to share your thoughts on this revamped VR, we're likely be updating it on MWP (~January 2024) at the latest.

 

[jackwilliambrassington@gm]

D->B golisopod on mono water is really underrated. first impression really helps against threats like Meowscarada or Rillaboom. It also helps against opposing mega swamperts since most variant's lack stone edge. it also helps that it's a water type which resists ground giving water a defensive backbone against opposing ground attacks. In rain I gets better since it now gains a fire resistance.

 

[jackwilliambrassington@gm]

->B
How come no one no one discuses why metagross isn't ranked anywhere on the viability rankings for steel. It's a pseudo legendary Afterall. yes there is Jirachi but in my opinion metagross has other tools to separate itself. for one it can run a choice band set which I used and it was really fun especially since it brings the best out of metagross's high attack. it also has high enough defence to be a physically monster with enough investment in HP EVE's. I've seen some metagross's on mono psychic with a weakness policy set with screen support. However it's honestly kind sad that no one is using this on mono steel teams. it deserves more love.

 

[jackwilliambrassington@gm]

->B I know Greninja exists but as a mega evolution for mono dark teams I believe this might be the best. The problem with Mega Tyranitar is that A it's always at risk of being Killed by a fighting coverage and B unlike mono rock Tyrantair's sand stream doesn't benefit the team infect it hinders the team since you have to consider sandstorm damage potentially putting your teammates in potential Ko range of certain moves. mega Houndom while fire coverage against bug types struggles to fit on teams especially since it makes moats dark teams more weak to ground. I'm not mentioning mega Absol since that mon is to frail and doesn't have a secondary typing to bring to the table. Mean while with mega sharpedo it has good water coverage with bonus stab on biting moves like crunch, ice fang and even psychic fangs thanks to strong jaw giving strong coverage against threats like Garchomp, Toxapex and even mega Altaria. sharpedo also benefits from the presence of alolan Muk protecting it from grass types.

 

[revolverhenry]

(Water) -> C While "Urh Dur Webs" is quite definitely far from a valid argument when defending the competitive prowess of a particular mon, Araquanid shines in plenty other aspects besides grating webs as is; with a wonderful ability in Water Bubble, Araquanid not only obtains a resistance against fire types move, redundant as it may be, but also an Adaptability boost in any Water moves it may use, such as Liquidation, Scald and, of course, a one time nuke in the form of a Hydro Vortex hard to survive to any but the bulkiest of mons. That, on top of a rather versatile support movepool with moves such as Mirror Coat, Magic Coat, Aqua Ring and the aforementioned webs, makes it so Araquanid can serve a variety of purposes on a team, such as a suicide lead with sash and webs, a Specially Defensive tank with the ability of dropping nuclear nukes with Waterium Z or a massively powerful wallbreaker with Choice Band. While undeniably niche and perhaps not as consistent as other options, Araquanid has served me well in plenty of structures, web based or not, and I personally believe that it has more of a consistent niche than most of the other options in D.
https://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen9nationaldexmonotype-1975583866 - A more than excellent showing of Araquanid's strengths, such as his winning lead match up against common fire staple Torkoal thanks to Magic Coat and surprising striking power with his Liquidations, opening remarkable holes on the opposing team's defenses. To top it all, Araquanid is able to stand his own against Volcanion, keeping webs in the game and eventually allowing its team to win the game thanks to the crucial speed drop against Charizard X, Ogerpon-H and Iron Moth
https://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen9nationaldexmonotype-1975554004 - Sweet, short and straight to the point, Araquanid shows yet againt its wonderful utility, bouncing Gastrodon's hazards with Magic Coat and taking advantage of the switches it forces by laying webs, and surprising lack of passivity by OHKOing a Garchomp while it was trying to set up.

-> A Degenerate win condition in any water composition you might imagine, rain or not, with the Acid Armor + Take Heart, pretty much unwallable and completely immune to status, besides being able to snowball at an almost worrying rate if positioned correctly, which is really not that complex taking into account Manaphy's natural excellent bulk and wonderful defensive typing in pure Water. Other sets, such as a Scarfed set or the classic Tail Glow nuke dropper wall breaker, still have plenty of merit and, while in my opinion overshadowed by the AA+TH one, can still be used to great effect.
https://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen9nationaldexmonotype-1975809568 - A Replay vs Screens Fire where Manaphy takes advantage of Rotom-H's passivity to set up, becoming basically unkillable in the process; while undeniably in possession of the type advantage, Manaphy shows off its not too shabby bulk by, with only three boosts to its special defense, taking Volcarona and Iron Month's hit like a champ and proceeding to win the game by forfeit.

https://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen9nationaldexmonotype-1975549211 - A replay that serves as evidence for both Araquanid's utility in web and crazy power in its ability to almost OHKO a defensive Scizor and Manaphy's impressive resilience and game winning bulk by surviving a Vikavolt's discharge and revenge killing it in return. Excuse the horrid plays on my part throughout the match, though

(Bug) -> A When regarding Bug, Vikavolt is a versatile wallbreaker and pivot with a handy Ground immunity and Electric resistance that, with sets ranging from Specs, to Assault Vest to Heavy Duty Boots with Roost for longevity, helps a ton in match ups such as Electric, Water, Ground and Flying in ways that Galvantula cannot, making up its abysmal speed with almost unbelievable fire power and decent bulk (two areas in which Galvantula is sorely lacking). While it doesn't win any of the aforementioned matchups, it is probably the best helper Bug could ask for in any of them, helping heavy hitters such as Volcarona, Scizor and Kleavor position themselves to hit harder in more effective ways.

https://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen9nationaldexmonotype-1969114035 - While not long lasting inside the game's context, this replay shows Vikavolt's ability to force switches, resist electric hits that no other mon in bug can tank comfortably and jawdropping power through its ability to 2HKO a Thundurus Therian while not even suffering a scratch from its powerful electric attacks.

https://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/...-1977063198-8w198vf93hdu5cn6rtkh01krc33wy6zpw
- Utmost impressive showing of Vikavolt in the electric match up; the only line of defense against Regieleki's terrifying onslaught of Rising Voltages, Vikavolt tanks and pivots its way through the game, dealing incredibly imporant chip to the Rotom W and, together with invaluable Kleavor, dealing the Coúp de Grace to the biggest nails in the shoddy coffin for bug in this god forsaken match up; Zapdos and Regieleki