OU OU Substitute Serperior + (Overview + Other Options + Checks and Counters) [QC 2/2] [GP 1/1] [DONE]

[OVERVIEW]

Serperior has cemented itself as a significant force to be reckoned with in the OU tier thanks to its ability Contrary's perfect synergy with Leaf Storm turning it into a huge snowballing threat, backed up by its high Speed stat and amazing utility options such as Glare, Taunt, Defog, Knock Off, and Leech Seed. With its Contrary-boosted Leaf Storm, Serperior acts as a fantastic cleaner for offensively oriented teams that can bulldoze past metagame staples such as Toxapex and Tapu Fini. It can also use Substitute to take advantage of switch-ins and either wear them down with Leech Seed or punish them with Glare. The combination of Taunt and Defog makes Serperior a great enabler for hyper offense teams, supporting teammates vulnerable to Stealth Rock, such as Dragonite, Mega Charizard X, and Volcarona. Its great Speed tier lets it get the jump on key Pokemon such as Kartana, Mega Latias, and Mega Medicham, and it also makes Serperior a great Choice Scarf user, able to outpace and revenge kill the likes of Ash-Greninja, Mega Swampert under the rain, and weakened targets like Mega Alakazam and Tapu Koko. However, Serperior is held back by its lack of coverage, and it has to rely on Hidden Power Fire to hit Pokemon like Mega Scizor, Ferrothorn, and Kartana. Serperior also struggles against common Pokemon like Magearna, Heatran, and Mega Charizard X, and it can't fit all of its utility options it wants in one set. Its Special Attack stat is also below average at best without relying on boosting with Leaf Storm, in which the low PP is exploited by a multitude of Grass-resistant Pokemon like Zapdos, Ferrothorn, and the aforementioned Magearna. Its Speed stat, while solid, leaves it outpaced by common Pokemon such as Tornadus-T, Greninja, and Tapu Koko. Finally, its typing leaves it vulnerable to U-turn and common attacking types such as Fire, Ice, and Flying.

[SET]
name: Substitute
move 1: Leaf Storm
move 2: Hidden Power Fire / Glare
move 3: Substitute
move 4: Leech Seed / Glare
item: Leftovers
ability: Contrary
nature: Timid
evs: 56 HP / 200 SpA / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
=========

Leaf Storm blows through neutral targets like Landorus-T, Garchomp, and Gliscor after a boost and smashes bulky Water-types like Rotom-W, Slowbro, and Tapu Fini. Hidden Power Fire complements Leaf Storm and threatens Steel-types like Ferrothorn, Mega Scizor, and Skarmory. Glare cripples switch-ins like Tornadus-T, Magearna, Heatran, and Mega Charizard X and allows Serperior to use Substitute to fish for a chance of full paralysis and stall with Leech Seed. Substitute is this set's main attraction, letting Serperior take advantage of forced switches and protecting it from status moves like Toxic from Toxapex and Thunder Wave from Clefable. Finally, Leech Seed enables Serperior to wear down and potentially beat checks such as Heatran, Magearna, and Chansey. Leech Seed also synergizes well with Substitute, as the HP that Serperior gains back lets it use Substitute more frequently.

Set Details
========

The given HP investment ensures that Rotom-W's Hydro Pump and Ferrothorn's Power Whip don't break Serperior's Substitute, while the rest of its EVs are dumped into Special Attack and Speed. Leftovers is necessary for slowly regaining health and to allow Serperior to use Substitute more frequently.

Usage Tips
========

Serperior fills the role of an early-game wallbreaker and late-game cleaner that can use its solid Speed stat and offensive presence to force switches against Pokemon it scares out, such as Tapu Fini and Rotom-W, to make the most out of the free opportunities that Substitute provides. Due to the nature of this set, which involves reducing its own HP, avoid switching Serperior into strong attacks, as this can heavily weaken it. Instead, it is best to bring it in via aggressive switches, with pivot support from Volt Switch and U-turn, or after a teammate has fainted. If the opponent switches in a Pokemon that can take Leaf Storm like Tornadus-T, Kyurem-B, Heatran, or Chansey, Serperior can capitalize on this opportunity to punish these checks with Glare or, in the case of Chansey, wear it down with Leech Seed, making it easier for Serperior's offensive teammates to break through them. Serperior must manage its Leaf Storm PP carefully, as the opponent can play around it with Grass-resistant Pokemon like Magearna and Zapdos and drain Leaf Storm's low PP, eventually leaving it unable to attack. Serperior must be wary of status conditions at all times, especially paralysis and poison, as they will reduce its efficacy. Therefore, it is a good idea to use Substitute to scout for Pokemon that can potentially cripple it with status, such as Thunder Wave from Clefable and Toxic from Toxapex. Serperior must also be wary of Knock Off, as this can reduce both its longevity and the number of times that it can use Substitute. It is often beneficial to use Leech Seed on a predicted switch-in followed by Substitute on the next turn, as opposed to the other way around. This allows Serperior to more efficiently use its PP to force extra damage against slower answers like Heatran, Celesteela, Zapdos, and Volt Switch variants of Magearna.

Team Options
========

This Serperior set is a solid fit on teams ranging from offense, bulky offense, balance, sand, and sun, which value its capability as a wallbreaker and late-game cleaner. Pivots such as Tornadus-T, Landorus-T, and Tapu Koko are solid partners, as they can safely bring Serperior in via U-turn and Volt Switch. Additionally, they can remove entry hazards with Defog, especially Toxic Spikes from Toxapex, which ruins Serperior's longevity. Tapu Koko also has the benefit of taking on Flying-types like Tornadus-T and Hawlucha. Heatran sets up Stealth Rock and provides a solid answer to Steel-types that threaten Serperior like Celesteela and Magearna. Protean and Battle Bond Greninja are also solid partners, as they can provide crucial support with Spikes. Protean variants can also snipe Magearna with Tectonic Rage, which is especially helpful for variants that don't have Leech Seed, while the Battle Bond variant eliminates Heatran and places heavy pressure on Assault Vest Magearna in conjunction with Spikes. Bulky Water-types like Tapu Fini and Toxapex are also beneficial, checking Fire-types like Volcarona, Victini, and Heatran. Tapu Fini can also summon Misty Terrain to protect Serperior from status conditions and remove hazards with Defog, while Toxapex lays down Toxic Spikes to put pressure on the likes of Chansey, Tapu Koko, and Kyurem-B, and Shed Shell variants of Toxapex can switch into Heatran's Magma Storm and remove its Leftovers with Knock Off. Magnezone can remove a lot of pressure for it by trapping and eliminating Steel-types like Mega Scizor, Ferrothorn, and Skarmory, giving it more freedom to drop Hidden Power Fire. Magearna is also a fantastic partner, as it can bring Serperior in safely via Volt Switch and solidly answers the likes of Weavile, Tornadus-T, and Mega Latias. Strong wallbreakers like Mega Medicham, Mega Mawile, and Tapu Lele soften checks like Magearna for Serperior to clean up later in the game and appreciate the paralysis support from Glare, letting them threaten faster checks like Tornadus-T. Serperior also appreciates Weavile punishing switch-ins with Knock Off, weakening the likes of Chansey, trapping and removing Tornadus-T and Mega Latias with Pursuit, and revenge killing Dragon-types like Kommo-o and Dragonite. Serperior forms a splendid partnership with Mega Diancie, as Serperior checks bulky Water-types like Gastrodon, and in return, Mega Diancie handles Fire- and Flying-types like Volcarona, Mega Charizard Y, Zapdos, and Tornadus-T and blocks hazards thanks to Magic Bounce. On sand teams, Mega Tyranitar and Sand Rush Excadrill greatly appreciate Serperior handling bulky Water-types like Rotom-W, Seismitoad, and Tapu Fini, as well as the paralysis support that Serperior's Glare provides. In return, Mega Tyranitar solidly answers the likes of Heatran and Tornadus-T, and it can potentially eliminate the latter with Pursuit, while Excadrill is grateful for Serperior pressuring Ground- and Water-type checks like Landorus-T and Mega Swampert. Swords Dance variants of Mega Garchomp also benefit from the paralysis support that Serperior’s Glare provides, crippling faster targets like Mega Latias and Tornadus-T and potentially granting Mega Garchomp extra setup opportunities due to the chance of full paralysis. On sun teams, Fire-type teammates like Mega Charizard Y and Victini greatly benefit from Serperior removing Mega Diancie, and in return, they threaten Steel-types like Mega Scizor, Ferrothorn, and Celesteela. The sun provided by Mega Charizard Y also grants Serperior's Hidden Power Fire an extra power boost and allows Serperior to have a higher chance of 2HKOing Celesteela and defensive Magearna with a boosted Hidden Power Fire. Additionally, both Fire-types benefit from the paralysis from Serperior's Glare crippling targets like Toxapex and Mega Latias, and the chance of full paralysis prevents them from healing, allowing these Fire-types to break through these targets more easily.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============

Nature Power paired with Normalium Z provides Serperior with an extra coverage option if it is paired with Tapu Koko or Tapu Fini, letting it lure in and eliminate Tornadus-T with Thunderbolt and Dragon-types like Kommo-o and Kyurem-B with Moonblast. However, this forces Serperior to give up Substitute, leaving it vulnerable to status attempts such as Toxic from Toxapex. Serperior can make use of other Hidden Power types, such as Hidden Power Rock to handle the likes of Zapdos, Mega Charizard Y, and Volcarona, Hidden Power Ground to take on Heatran, and Hidden Power Ice to blow through Dragonite. However, giving up Hidden Power Fire is not desirable, as it leaves Mega Scizor, Ferrothorn, Magnezone, and Skarmory able to switch in more freely. Synthesis enables Serperior to stay healthy to continue checking bulky Water-types like Tapu Fini and Slowbro. The support from the sun provided by Mega Charizard Y also allows Serperior to regain more health with Synthesis. However, sand and rain can reduce the amount of HP that Serperior can recover. Grassium Z can be used to turn a boosted Leaf Storm into a one-time nuke and deal massive damage to targets like Chansey and Magearna.

Checks and Counters
===================

**Ice-type Pokemon and Coverage**: Weavile is faster than Serperior and threatens an immediate OHKO with Icicle Crash or picks it off with Ice Shard. Ice-type coverage moves, such as Hidden Power Ice from Tapu Koko, Ice Punch from Mega Swampert under the rain, and Ice Beam from Mega Latias and Greninja, also threaten Serperior with major damage.

**Fire-type Pokemon**: Heatran, both Mega Charizard formes, and Volcarona do not take much from a boosted Leaf Storm and will fire back with their super effective attacks. Additionally, Volcarona can bypass Substitute and threaten Serperior with Bug Buzz. However, none of them enjoy taking Glare, while the former three must watch out for Leech Seed.

**Steel-type Pokemon**: Celesteela and Magearna can take Serperior's boosted Hidden Power Fire and retaliate back with heavy damage. If Serperior lacks Hidden Power Fire, Mega Scizor, Ferrothorn, and Skarmory can come in freely and threaten it with U-turn, status from Thunder Wave, and phazing with Whirlwind, respectively. However, the latter two don't appreciate being shut down by Taunt or having their items removed with Knock Off.

**Dragon-type Pokemon**: Kyurem-B, Mega Latias, and Dragonite can take Leaf Storm pretty well and force it out with their super effective attacks. Kommo-o can also use Serperior as setup fodder and bypass Substitute with Clangorous Soulblaze. None of them enjoy switching into Glare and Leech Seed, however. Mega Altaria is also worth mentioning because it can make use of Natural Cure before Mega Evolution to shrug off paralysis, and it can phaze Serperior with Roar; however, it despises being shut down by Taunt.

**Flying-type Pokemon**: Tornadus-T, Mega Pinsir, and Zapdos can switch into Serperior and threaten it back with major damage. However, the former two do not like switching into Glare. Hawlucha deserves a special mention because it can use Serperior as setup fodder, and it forces Serperior out with Acrobatics; however, it doesn't like switching into Glare or a boosted Leaf Storm.

**Faster Pokemon and Priority**: Mega Alakazam, Protean Greninja, Tornadus-T, and Choice Scarf users, such as Landorus-T, Tapu Lele, and Victini, all outpace Serperior and threaten it with heavy damage. Strong priority users like Mega Medicham, Mega Lopunny, Mega Mawile, and Mega Pinsir will pick off Serperior after prior chip damage, but the Taunt + Defog variant can punish them in return thanks to Rocky Helmet.

[CREDITS]
Written by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/favmon-garchomp.653095/
Quality checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/zinnias.569291/
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/skypenguin.462413/
Grammar checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/a-blue-banana.649096/
 
Last edited:
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[OVERVIEW]

Serperior has cemented itself as a significant force to be reckoned with in the OU tier thanks to its ability (rc) Contrary's perfect synergy with Leaf Storm turning it into a huge snowballing threat, backed up by its (rc) high Speed stat and amazing utility options such as Glare, Taunt, Defog, Knock Off, and Leech Seed. i'd much prefer something like this to just a flat list of attributes With its Contrary boosted Leaf Storm, Serperior acts as a fantastic cleaner for offensively oriented teams and that can threaten bulldoze past metagame staples such as Toxapex, Landorus-T, and Gliscor. these seem a little random. have fini in here The combination of Taunt and Defog lets it enable teammates weak to Stealth Rock, such as Dragonite, Gyarados, Mega Charizard X, and Volcarona. be more broad. it's an overview. you need to be cutting down on the amount of examples you give because they are just filler. you should describe briefly its capability as a ho support, it shouldnt be about one specific aspect It can also use Substitute to take advantage of switch-ins and punish them with Glare or wear them down with Leech Seed. move this above the HO variant. also, it makes more sense to say leech seed before glare because that's how you slash it With Choice Scarf, it is also an effective revenge killer against Its great Speed tier lets it get the jump on key Pokemon such as Kartana, Mega Latias, and Mega Medicham, and also makes it a great Choice Scarf user, able to outpace and revenge kill the likes of Ash-Greninja, Mega Swampert under the rain, and weakened targets like Mega Alakazam and Tapu Koko. Contrary is also useful for punishing Defog, letting it grab an evasion boost, and can potentially beat Pokemon it should have no business against, such as Mega Charizard Y and Heatran. Its Speed tier lets it get the jump on key Pokemon such as Kartana, Mega Latias, and Mega Medicham. However, Serperior is held back by its lack of coverage, meaning it has to rely on Hidden Power Fire to hit Pokemon like Mega Scizor, Ferrothorn, and Kartana. well i mean that literally does the job. i know the point you're trying to make but you aren't doing it in a way that makes sense. try to focus on what it can't hit / can't fit Its Special Attack stat is also below average at best without relying on boosting with Leaf Storm. Its Speed stat, while solid, leaves it outpaced by common Pokemon such as Tornadus-T, Greninja, and Tapu Koko. Finally, its typing leaves it vulnerable to U-turn and common attacking types such as Fire, Ice, and Flying.

[SET]
name: Substitute
move 1: Leaf Storm
move 2: Hidden Power Fire / Glare
move 3: Substitute
move 4: Leech Seed / Glare
item: Leftovers
ability: Contrary
nature: Timid
evs: 56 HP / 200 SpA / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
=========

Leaf Storm blows through neutral targets like Landorus-T, Garchomp, and Gliscor after a boost and smashes bulky Water-types like Rotom-W, Slowbro, and Tapu Fini, and Gastrodon. three is fine Hidden Power Fire complements Leaf Storm and threatens Steel-types like Ferrothorn, Mega Scizor, and Skarmory. Glare cripples switch-ins like Tornadus-T, Magearna, Heatran, and Mega Charizard X. creates opportunities to sub / stall with leech Substitute is this set's main attraction, taking advantage of forced switches and protecting Serperior from status moves like Toxic from Toxapex and Thunder Wave from Clefable. Finally, Leech Seed enables Serperior to wear down and potentially beat checks such as Heatran, Magearna, and Zapdos. you don't touch on its synergy with substitute

Set Details
========

The given HP investment ensures that Rotom-W’s Hydro Pump doesn’t break Serperior’s Substitute, while the rest of its EVs are dumped into Special Attack and Speed. Leftovers is necessary for slowly regaining health and to allow Serperior to use Substitute more frequently.

Usage Tips
========

Serperior fills the role of an early-game wallbreaker and late-game cleaner that can use its solid Speed stat and offensive presence to force switches against Pokemon it scares out, such as Gastrodon, Seismitoad, you should really only be using these mons as examples when necessary. replace one with fini. also, these are all slow pokemon, if you want to mention that it uses its solid speed stat then you should be mentioning a mid-tier speed pokemon not a bunch of slow mons. either you do this, or change it to serperior's defensive profile and how it can easily enter directly vs waters and Rotom-W, to make the most out of the free opportunities that Substitute provides. However, it must watch out for potential burns from Scald and Will-O-Wisp. Due to the nature of this set, which involves reducing its own HP, avoid switching Serperior into strong attacks, as this can heavily weaken it. So, it is best to bring it in via aggressive switches, pivot support from Volt Switch and U-turn, or after a teammate has fainted. If the opponent has a Pokemon that can take Leaf Storm like Tornadus-T, Kyurem-B, Heatran, and Chansey, Serperior can use the opportunity what opportunity is that? the opponent having them? to punish them with Glare or, in the case of Chansey, wear it down with Leech Seed. Serperior must manage its Leaf Storm PP carefully, as the opponent can play around it how might they? and drain Leaf Storm's low PP, eventually leaving it unable to attack. Serperior must be wary of status conditions at all times, especially paralysis and poison, as they will reduce its efficacy. Therefore, it is a good idea to use Substitute to scout for Pokemon that can potentially cripple it with status, such as Thunder Wave from Clefable and Toxic from Toxapex. The battlefield must also be clear of Toxic Spikes, as it will put Serperior on a ticking timer. you already mentioned status Serperior must also be wary of Knock Off, as this can reduce both its longevity and the number of times that it can use Substitute.

Team Options
========

This Serperior set is a solid fit on teams ranging from offense, bulky offense, and sand, which enjoy the Water resistance and utility options that Serperior brings. the water resistance and utility options are just added bonuses, we're talking about its most offensively inclined set here. also, sun teams like substitute serp too Strong wallbreakers like Mega Medicham, Mega Mawile, and Tapu Lele love the paralysis support from Glare, letting them threaten faster checks like Tornadus-T and making it easier to punch holes through opposing teams. glare is a second slash, this should not be the first thing you say after the opening sentence, move it down Pivots such as Tornadus-T, Tapu Koko, Zapdos, and Rotom-W are also solid partners, as they can safely bring Serperior in via U-turn and Volt Switch. Additionally, they can remove entry hazards with Defog, especially Toxic Spikes from Toxapex, which ruins Serperior's longevity. i don't want people to get the impression that koko is a good fogger from this. koko isnt a bad example at all but if you're going for a defog link maybe switch it for lando Zapdos and Rotom-W also have the benefit of taking on Flying-types like Tornadus-T and Hawlucha non-Dragonium Z Dragonite. Heatran sets up Stealth Rock and provides a solid answer to Steel-types that threaten Serperior like Celesteela and Magearna. Greninja is another solid partner for Serperior, as it can set up Spikes and snipe Magearna with Tectonic Rage. Bulky Water-types like Tapu Fini and Toxapex are also beneficial, checking Fire-types like Volcarona, Victini, and Heatran. Tapu Fini can also summon Misty Terrain to protect Serperior from status conditions and remove entry hazards with Defog, while Toxapex lays down Toxic Spikes, putting pressure on the likes of Chansey, Tapu Koko this seems like quite a random example, and Kyurem-B. Shed Shell variants of Toxapex can also switch into Heatran's Magma Storm and remove its Leftovers with Knock Off, making it harder for Heatran to take on Serperior, especially if it uses Leech Seed. combine the part i left in with the previous sentence, toxapex does not need three sentences If Serperior forgoes Hidden Power Fire, Magnezone can remove a lot of pressure for it by trapping and eliminating Steel-types like Mega Scizor, Ferrothorn, and Skarmory, giving it more freedom to drop Hidden Power Fire. Magearna is also a fantastic partner, as it can bring Serperior in safely via Volt Switch and solidly answers the likes of Weavile and Mega Alakazam. Serperior also appreciates Weavile punishing switch-ins with Knock Off, weakening the likes of Chansey, trapping and removing Tornadus-T with Pursuit, and revenge killing Dragon-types like Mega Latias, Kommo-o, and Dragonite. Serperior forms a splendid partnership with Mega Diancie, as Serperior checks bulky Water-types like Gastrodon and Seismitoad irrelevant, and in return, Mega Diancie handles Fire- and Flying-types like Volcarona, Mega Charizard Y, Zapdos, and Tornadus-T and blocks entry hazards thanks to Magic Bounce. Additionally, Serperior can bait in and eliminate Steel-types like Ferrothorn, Mega Scizor, and a weakened Celesteela, all of which are very troublesome for Mega Diancie and allow it to run Earth Power or Hidden Power Ice more easily. On sand teams, Mega Tyranitar and Sand Rush Excadrill greatly appreciate Serperior handling bulky Water-types like Gastrodon, Seismitoad, they dont need to be snuck in at every opportunity. this is the scenario where rotom-w is actually the most relevant, replace gastro and leave toad if you want to vary it and Tapu Fini, as well as the paralysis support that Serperior’s Serperior's Glare provides. In return, Mega Tyranitar solidly answers the likes of Heatran and Tornadus-T and can potentially eliminate the latter with Pursuit, while Excadrill is grateful for Serperior paralyzing Mega Alakazam and luring and eliminating the likes of Mega Scizor, Skarmory, and Ferrothorn with Hidden Power Fire, happens once in a blue moon. serp pressures exca's ground and water type checks to name a replacement enabling it to clean up later in the game. Swords Dance variants of Mega Garchomp also benefit from the paralysis support that Serperior’s Glare provides, potentially granting it extra setup opportunities due to the chance of full paralysis.

-sun teams

[SET CREDITS]

Written by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/favmon-garchomp.653095/
Quality checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/user3.102/
Grammar checked by:

https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/user5.104/
see the volcarona check

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============

Nature Power provides Serperior with an extra coverage option if it is paired with Tapu Koko or Tapu Fini, letting it lure in and eliminate Tornadus-T with Thunderbolt and Dragon-types like Kommo-o and Kyurem-B with Moonblast. However, this forces Serperior to give up Substitute, leaving it vulnerable to status attempts such as Toxic from Toxapex. Serperior can make use of other Hidden Power types, such as Hidden Power Rock to handle the likes of Zapdos, Mega Charizard Y, and Volcarona, Hidden Power Ground to take on Heatran, and Hidden Power Ice to blow through Dragonite. However, giving up Hidden Power Fire is not desirable as it leaves Mega Scizor, Ferrothorn, and Skarmory able to switch in more freely. magnezone deserves to be mentioned within this Synthesis enables Serperior to stay healthy to continue checking bulky Water-types like Tapu Fini and Slowbro. However, sand and rain can reduce the amount of HP that Serperior can recover. Giga Drain is a decent option if it is paired with Taunt to turn Serperior into a deadly stallbreaker after boosting with Leaf Storm, and makes it more difficult to revenge kill. However, this forces Serperior to ditch Glare, leaving it without an option to punish switch-ins like Tornadus-T with paralysis.
grassium z, maybe dragon pulse?


Checks and Counters
===================

**Ice-type Pokemon and Coverage**: Weavile is faster than Serperior and threatens an immediate OHKO with Icicle Crash or picks it off with Ice Shard. Ice-type coverage moves, such as Hidden Power Ice from Tapu Koko, Ice Punch from Mega Swampert under the rain, and Ice Beam from Mega Latias and Greninja, also threaten Serperior with major damage.

**Fire-type Pokemon**: Heatran, both Mega Charizard formes, and Volcarona do not take much from a boosted Leaf Storm and will fire back with their super effective attacks. Additionally, Volcarona can bypass Substitute and threaten Serperior with Bug Buzz. However, none of them enjoy taking Glare, while the former three must watch out for Leech Seed.

**Steel-type Pokemon**: Celesteela and Magearna can take Serperior's boosted Hidden Power Fire and retaliate back with heavy damage. If Serperior lacks Hidden Power Fire, Mega Scizor, Ferrothorn, and Skarmory can come in freely and threaten it with U-turn, status from Thunder Wave, and phazing with Whirlwind, respectively. However, the latter two don't appreciate being shut down by Taunt or having their items removed with Knock Off.

**Dragon-type Pokemon**: Kyurem-B, Mega Latias, and Dragonite can take Leaf Storm pretty well and force it out with their super effective attacks. Kommo-o can also use Serperior as setup fodder and bypass Substitute with Clangorous Soulblaze. None of them enjoy switching into Glare and Leech Seed, however. Mega Altaria is also worth mentioning because it can make use of Natural Cure before Mega Evolution to shrug off paralysis and roar, though it despises being shut down by Taunt.

**Flying-type Pokemon**: Tornadus-T, Mega Charizard Y, you alr mentioned it. maybe replace with mega pinsir Hawlucha doesn't "switch in" until its ready to go all in, include it in a separate sentence, and Zapdos can switch into Serperior and threaten it back with major damage. However, the former three do not like switching into Glare.

**Chansey**: Chansey can take boosted Leaf Storms thanks to its massive special bulk, heal with Soft-Boiled, and shrug off paralysis with Natural Cure. However, it must watch out for Leech Seed, Knock Off, and especially Taunt, which forces Chansey to rely on Seismic Toss to take on Serperior and can be worn down further if Serperior is holding a Rocky Helmet. there are some cases where chansey can be annoying but it loses to so many serp sets that this is just not a whole section on its own

**Faster Pokemon and Priority**: Mega Alakazam, Protean Greninja, Tornadus-T, and Choice Scarf users, such as Landorus-T, Tapu Lele, and Victini, all outpace Serperior and threaten it with heavy damage. Strong priority users like Mega Medicham, Mega Lopunny, Mega Mawile, and Mega Pinsir will pick off Serperior after prior chip damage, but the Taunt + Defog variant can punish them in return thanks to Rocky Helmet.

**Pressure**: Although it's rare, Kyurem resists and can stall out Serperior's Leaf Storm PP and recover with Roost, but it doesn't like taking Leech Seed. Weavile can only switch in once due to its frailty, and can force it out with its super effective attacks. Suicune also deserves a mention, as it can repeatedly use Substitute + Protect to PP stall Serperior.

[CREDITS]
Written by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/favmon-garchomp.653095/
Quality checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/zinnias.569291/
Grammar checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/user5.104/
 
  • Like
Reactions: Sna
[OVERVIEW]

Serperior has cemented itself as a significant force to be reckoned with in the OU tier thanks to its ability Contrary's perfect synergy with Leaf Storm turning it into a huge snowballing threat, backed up by its high Speed stat, and amazing utility options such as Glare, Taunt, Defog, Knock Off, and Leech Seed. With its Contrary-boosted Leaf Storm, Serperior acts as a fantastic cleaner for offensively oriented teams that can bulldoze past metagame staples such as Toxapex and Tapu Fini. It can also use Substitute to take advantage of switch-ins and either wear them down with Leech Seed or punish them with Glare. The combination of Taunt and Defog makes Serperior a great enabler for hyper offense teams, supporting teammates vulnerable to Stealth Rock, such as Dragonite, Mega Charizard X, and Volcarona. Its great Speed tier lets it get the jump on key Pokemon such as Kartana, Mega Latias, and Mega Medicham, and also makes it a great Choice Scarf user, able to outpace and revenge kill the likes of Ash-Greninja, Mega Swampert under the rain, and weakened targets like Mega Alakazam and Tapu Koko. However, Serperior is held back by its lack of coverage, and it has to rely on Hidden Power Fire to hit Pokemon like Mega Scizor, Ferrothorn, and Kartana. Serperior also struggles against common Pokemon like Magearna, Heatran, and Mega Charizard X, and it can't fit all of its utility options it wants in one set. Its Special Attack stat is also below average at best without relying on boosting with Leaf Storm, in which the low PP is exploited by a multitude of Grass-resistant Pokemon like Zapdos, Ferrothorn, and the aforementioned Magearna. Its Speed stat, while solid, leaves it outpaced by common Pokemon such as Tornadus-T, Greninja, and Tapu Koko. Finally, its typing leaves it vulnerable to U-turn and common attacking types such as Fire, Ice, and Flying.

[SET]
name: Substitute
move 1: Leaf Storm
move 2: Hidden Power Fire / Glare
move 3: Substitute
move 4: Leech Seed / Glare
item: Leftovers
ability: Contrary
nature: Timid
evs: 56 HP / 200 SpA / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
=========

Leaf Storm blows through neutral targets like Landorus-T, Garchomp, and Gliscor after a boost and smashes bulky Water-types like Rotom-W, Slowbro, and Tapu Fini. Hidden Power Fire complements Leaf Storm and threatens Steel-types like Ferrothorn, Mega Scizor, and Skarmory. Glare cripples switch-ins like Tornadus-T, Magearna, Heatran, and Mega Charizard X and allows Serperior to use Substitute to fish for a chance of full paralysis and stall with Leech Seed. Substitute is this set's main attraction, taking advantage of forced switches and protecting Serperior from status moves like Toxic from Toxapex and Thunder Wave from Clefable. Finally, Leech Seed enables Serperior to wear down and potentially beat checks such as Heatran, Magearna, and Zapdos Chansey. Leech Seed also synergizes well with Substitute, as the HP that Serperior gains back lets it use Substitute more frequently.

Set Details
========

The given HP investment ensures that Rotom-W’s Hydro Pump and Ferrothorn's power whip don't doesn’t break Serperior’s Substitute while the rest of its EVs are dumped into Special Attack and Speed. Leftovers is necessary for slowly regaining health and to allow Serperior to use Substitute more frequently.

Usage Tips
========

Serperior fills the role of an early-game wallbreaker and late-game cleaner that can use its solid Speed stat and offensive presence to force switches against Pokemon it scares out, such as Tapu Fini and Rotom-W, to make the most out of the free opportunities that Substitute provides. Due to the nature of this set, which involves reducing its own HP, avoid switching Serperior into strong attacks, as this can heavily weaken it. So, it is best to bring it in via aggressive switches, pivot support from Volt Switch and U-turn, or after a teammate has fainted. If the opponent switches in a Pokemon that can take Leaf Storm like Tornadus-T, Kyurem-B, Heatran, and Chansey, Serperior can capitalize on this opportunity to punish these checks with Glare or, in the case of Chansey, wear it down with Leech Seed, making it easier for Serperior's offensive teammates to break through them. Serperior must manage its Leaf Storm PP carefully, as the opponent can play around it with Grass-resistant Pokemon like Magearna and Zapdos and drain Leaf Storm's low PP, eventually leaving it unable to attack. Serperior must be wary of status conditions at all times, especially paralysis and poison, as they will reduce its efficacy. Therefore, it is a good idea to use Substitute to scout for Pokemon that can potentially cripple it with status, such as Thunder Wave from Clefable and Toxic from Toxapex. Serperior must also be wary of Knock Off, as this can reduce both its longevity and the number of times that it can use Substitute. It's often beneficial to use leech seed on a predicted switchin follwed by substitute on the next turn, as opposed to the other way around. This allows Serperior to more efficiently use its PP to force extra damage against slower answers like volt switch magearna, (roar) heatran, zap/celes

Team Options
========

This Serperior set is a solid fit on teams ranging from it famously fits on balance too
1748430596867.png

1748430609487.png

offense, bulky offense, sand, and sun, which value its capability as a wallbreaker and late-game cleaner. Pivots such as Tornadus-T, Landorus-T, and Tapu Koko Zapdos, and Rotom-W are also solid partners, as they can safely bring Serperior in via U-turn and Volt Switch. Additionally, they can remove entry hazards with Defog, especially Toxic Spikes from Toxapex, which ruins Serperior's longevity. Zapdos and Rotom-W also have the benefit of taking on Flying-types like Tornadus-T and Hawlucha these mons aren't really used together. Heatran sets up Stealth Rock and provides a solid answer to Steel-types that threaten Serperior like Celesteela and Magearna. Greninja is another solid partner for Serperior, as it can set up Spikes and snipe Magearna with Tectonic Rage not really used together; serp can just cheese through mag/pex/tran with leech anyway. Bulky Water-types like Tapu Fini and Toxapex are also beneficial, checking Fire-types like Volcarona, Victini, and Heatran. Tapu Fini can also summon Misty Terrain to protect Serperior from status conditions and remove entry hazards with Defog, while Toxapex lays down Toxic Spikes to put pressure on the likes of Chansey, Tapu Koko, and Kyurem-B, and Shed Shell variants of Toxapex can switch into Heatran's Magma Storm and remove its Leftovers with Knock Off. Magnezone can remove a lot of pressure for it by trapping and eliminating Steel-types like Mega Scizor, Ferrothorn, and Skarmory, giving it more freedom to drop Hidden Power Fire. Magearna is also a fantastic partner, as it can bring Serperior in safely via Volt Switch and solidly answers the likes of Weavile and Mega Alakazam torn/lati more relevant. Strong wallbreakers like Mega Medicham, Mega Mawile, and Tapu Lele soften checks like Magearna for Serperior to clean up later in the game and appreciate the paralysis support from Glare, letting them threaten faster checks like Tornadus-T. Serperior also appreciates Weavile punishing switch-ins with Knock Off, weakening the likes of Chansey, trapping and removing Tornadus-T + Latias with Pursuit, and revenge killing Dragon-types like Mega Latias, Kommo-o, and Dragonite. Serperior forms a splendid partnership with Mega Diancie, as Serperior checks bulky Water-types like Gastrodon, and in return, Mega Diancie handles Fire- and Flying-types like Volcarona, Mega Charizard Y, Zapdos, and Tornadus-T and blocks entry hazards thanks to Magic Bounce. On sand teams, Mega Tyranitar and Sand Rush Excadrill greatly appreciate Serperior handling bulky Water-types like Rotom-W, Seismitoad, and Tapu Fini, as well as the paralysis support that Serperior's Glare provides. In return, Mega Tyranitar solidly answers the likes of Heatran and Tornadus-T and can potentially eliminate the latter with Pursuit, while Excadrill is grateful for Serperior pressuring Ground- and Water-type checks like Landorus-T and Mega Swampert. Swords Dance variants of Mega Garchomp also benefit from the paralysis support that Serperior’s Glare provides, potentially granting it extra setup opportunities due to the chance of full paralysis - who specifically are we paralyzing to allow this? I haven't seen this combo so I'd probably just leave it off if there are no specific examples. On sun teams, Fire-type teammates like Mega Charizard Y and Victini greatly benefit from Serperior removing Mega Diancie, and in return, they threaten Steel-types like Mega Scizor, Ferrothorn, and Celesteela, especially if Serperior drops Hidden Power Fire. Additionally, both Fire-types benefit from the recovery provided by Serperior's Leech Seed and paralysis from Glare crippling faster targets like Mega Alakazam fire types feast on zam; you could say para vs pex/lati but that's more for preventing recovery via full para - hp fire is better on sun anyway. Also it's a bit strange to say they benefit from leech recovery since you're implying we have a leech seed up with serp and are switching into the fire type (one of which has roost)?.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============

Nature Power paired with Normalium Z provides Serperior with an extra coverage option if it is paired with Tapu Koko or Tapu Fini, letting it lure in and eliminate Tornadus-T with Thunderbolt and Dragon-types like Kommo-o and Kyurem-B with Moonblast. However, this forces Serperior to give up Substitute, leaving it vulnerable to status attempts such as Toxic from Toxapex. Serperior can make use of other Hidden Power types, such as Hidden Power Rock to handle the likes of Zapdos, Mega Charizard Y, and Volcarona, Hidden Power Ground to take on Heatran, and Hidden Power Ice to blow through Dragonite. However, giving up Hidden Power Fire is not desirable as it leaves Mega Scizor, Ferrothorn, Magnezone, and Skarmory able to switch in more freely. Synthesis enables Serperior to stay healthy to continue checking bulky Water-types like Tapu Fini and Slowbro. However, sand and rain can reduce the amount of HP that Serperior can recover. Grassium Z can be used to turn a boosted Leaf Storm into a one-time nuke and deal massive damage to targets like Chansey and Magearna. Dragon Pulse is an option that lets Serperior deal with Mega Charizard X, Kyurem-B, and Mega Latias. However, the use of this move is very specific and forces Serperior to drop a crucial move like Substitute or Glare to do so. This is a meme move we shouldn't mention. Instead talk about synthesis (especially on sun, and/or with grassium z leaf storm), and maybe knock/taunt on offensive sets

Checks and Counters
===================

**Ice-type Pokemon and Coverage**: Weavile is faster than Serperior and threatens an immediate OHKO with Icicle Crash or picks it off with Ice Shard. Ice-type coverage moves, such as Hidden Power Ice from Tapu Koko, Ice Punch from Mega Swampert under the rain, and Ice Beam from Mega Latias and Greninja, also threaten Serperior with major damage.

**Fire-type Pokemon**: Heatran, both Mega Charizard formes, and Volcarona do not take much from a boosted Leaf Storm and will fire back with their super effective attacks. Additionally, Volcarona can bypass Substitute and threaten Serperior with Bug Buzz. However, none of them enjoy taking Glare, while the former three must watch out for Leech Seed.

**Steel-type Pokemon**: Celesteela and Magearna can take Serperior's boosted Hidden Power Fire and retaliate back with heavy damage. If Serperior lacks Hidden Power Fire, Mega Scizor, Ferrothorn, and Skarmory can come in freely and threaten it with U-turn, status from Thunder Wave, and phazing with Whirlwind, respectively. However, the latter two don't appreciate being shut down by Taunt or having their items removed with Knock Off.

**Dragon-type Pokemon**: Kyurem-B, Mega Latias, and Dragonite can take Leaf Storm pretty well and force it out with their super effective attacks. Kommo-o can also use Serperior as setup fodder and bypass Substitute with Clangorous Soulblaze. None of them enjoy switching into Glare and Leech Seed, however. Mega Altaria is also worth mentioning because it can make use of Natural Cure before Mega Evolution to shrug off paralysis, and it can phaze Serperior out with Roar; however, it despises being shut down by Taunt.

**Flying-type Pokemon**: Tornadus-T, Mega Pinsir, and Zapdos can switch into Serperior and threaten it back with major damage. However, the former two do not like switching into Glare. Hawlucha deserves a special mention because it can use Serperior as setup fodder, and it forces Serperior out with Acrobatics; however, it doesn't like switching into Glare or a boosted Leaf Storm.

**Faster Pokemon and Priority**: Mega Alakazam, Protean Greninja, Tornadus-T, and Choice Scarf users, such as Landorus-T, Tapu Lele, and Victini, all outpace Serperior and threaten it with heavy damage. Strong priority users like Mega Medicham, Mega Lopunny, Mega Mawile, and Mega Pinsir will pick off Serperior after prior chip damage, but the Taunt + Defog variant can punish them in return thanks to Rocky Helmet.

[CREDITS]
Written by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/favmon-garchomp.653095/
Quality checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/zinnias.569291/
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/user3.102/
Grammar checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/user5.104/

QC 2/2
 
GP Team done

add remove comment

very few changes needed, this can be marked as done once implemented

[OVERVIEW]

Serperior has cemented itself as a significant force to be reckoned with in the OU tier thanks to its ability Contrary's perfect synergy with Leaf Storm turning it into a huge snowballing threat, backed up by its high Speed stat (RC) and amazing utility options such as Glare, Taunt, Defog, Knock Off, and Leech Seed. With its Contrary-boosted Leaf Storm, Serperior acts as a fantastic cleaner for offensively oriented teams that can bulldoze past metagame staples such as Toxapex and Tapu Fini. It can also use Substitute to take advantage of switch-ins and either wear them down with Leech Seed or punish them with Glare. The combination of Taunt and Defog makes Serperior a great enabler for hyper offense teams, supporting teammates vulnerable to Stealth Rock, such as Dragonite, Mega Charizard X, and Volcarona. Its great Speed tier lets it get the jump on key Pokemon such as Kartana, Mega Latias, and Mega Medicham, and it also makes it Serperior a great Choice Scarf user, able to outpace and revenge kill the likes of Ash-Greninja, Mega Swampert under the rain, and weakened targets like Mega Alakazam and Tapu Koko. However, Serperior is held back by its lack of coverage, and it has to rely on Hidden Power Fire to hit Pokemon like Mega Scizor, Ferrothorn, and Kartana. Serperior also struggles against common Pokemon like Magearna, Heatran, and Mega Charizard X, and it can't fit all of its utility options it wants in one set. Its Special Attack stat is also below average at best without relying on boosting with Leaf Storm, in which the low PP is exploited by a multitude of Grass-resistant Pokemon like Zapdos, Ferrothorn, and the aforementioned Magearna. Its Speed stat, while solid, leaves it outpaced by common Pokemon such as Tornadus-T, Greninja, and Tapu Koko. Finally, its typing leaves it vulnerable to U-turn and common attacking types such as Fire, Ice, and Flying.

[SET]
name: Substitute
move 1: Leaf Storm
move 2: Hidden Power Fire / Glare
move 3: Substitute
move 4: Leech Seed / Glare
item: Leftovers
ability: Contrary
nature: Timid
evs: 56 HP / 200 SpA / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
=========

Leaf Storm blows through neutral targets like Landorus-T, Garchomp, and Gliscor after a boost and smashes bulky Water-types like Rotom-W, Slowbro, and Tapu Fini. Hidden Power Fire complements Leaf Storm and threatens Steel-types like Ferrothorn, Mega Scizor, and Skarmory. Glare cripples switch-ins like Tornadus-T, Magearna, Heatran, and Mega Charizard X and allows Serperior to use Substitute to fish for a chance of full paralysis and stall with Leech Seed. Substitute is this set's main attraction, taking letting Serperior take advantage of forced switches and protecting Serperior it from status moves like Toxic from Toxapex and Thunder Wave from Clefable. Finally, Leech Seed enables Serperior to wear down and potentially beat checks such as Heatran, Magearna, and Chansey. Leech Seed also synergizes well with Substitute, as the HP that Serperior gains back lets it use Substitute more frequently.

Set Details
========

The given HP investment ensures that Rotom-W’s Rotom-W's (curly → ASCII apostrophe) Hydro Pump and Ferrothorn's Power Whip don't break Serperior’s Substitute, (AC) while the rest of its EVs are dumped into Special Attack and Speed. Leftovers is necessary for slowly regaining health and to allow Serperior to use Substitute more frequently.

Usage Tips
========

Serperior fills the role of an early-game wallbreaker and late-game cleaner that can use its solid Speed stat and offensive presence to force switches against Pokemon it scares out, such as Tapu Fini and Rotom-W, to make the most out of the free opportunities that Substitute provides. Due to the nature of this set, which involves reducing its own HP, avoid switching Serperior into strong attacks, as this can heavily weaken it. So Instead, it is best to bring it in via aggressive switches, with pivot support from Volt Switch and U-turn, or after a teammate has fainted. If the opponent switches in a Pokemon that can take Leaf Storm like Tornadus-T, Kyurem-B, Heatran, and or Chansey, Serperior can capitalize on this opportunity to punish these checks with Glare or, in the case of Chansey, wear it down with Leech Seed, making it easier for Serperior's offensive teammates to break through them. Serperior must manage its Leaf Storm PP carefully, as the opponent can play around it with Grass-resistant Pokemon like Magearna and Zapdos and drain Leaf Storm's low PP, eventually leaving it unable to attack. Serperior must be wary of status conditions at all times, especially paralysis and poison, as they will reduce its efficacy. Therefore, it is a good idea to use Substitute to scout for Pokemon that can potentially cripple it with status, such as Thunder Wave from Clefable and Toxic from Toxapex. Serperior must also be wary of Knock Off, as this can reduce both its longevity and the number of times that it can use Substitute. It is often beneficial to use Leech Seed on a predicted switch-in followed by Substitute on the next turn, as opposed to the other way around. This allows Serperior to more efficiently use its PP to force extra damage against slower answers like Heatran, Celesteela, Zapdos, and Volt Switch variants of Magearna.

Team Options
========

This Serperior set is a solid fit on teams ranging from offense, bulky offense, balance, sand, and sun, which value its capability as a wallbreaker and late-game cleaner. Pivots such as Tornadus-T, Landorus-T, and Tapu Koko are solid partners, as they can safely bring Serperior in via U-turn and Volt Switch. Additionally, they can remove entry hazards with Defog, especially Toxic Spikes from Toxapex, which ruins Serperior's longevity. Tapu Koko also has the benefit of taking on Flying-types like Tornadus-T and Hawlucha. Heatran sets up Stealth Rock and provides a solid answer to Steel-types that threaten Serperior like Celesteela and Magearna. Protean and Battle Bond Greninja are also solid partners, as they can provide crucial support with Spikes. Protean variants can also snipe Magearna with Tectonic Rage, which is especially helpful for variants that don't have Leech Seed, while the Battle Bond variant eliminates Heatran and places heavy pressure on Assault Vest Magearna in conjunction with Spikes. Bulky Water-types like Tapu Fini and Toxapex are also beneficial, checking Fire-types like Volcarona, Victini, and Heatran. Tapu Fini can also summon Misty Terrain to protect Serperior from status conditions and remove entry hazards with Defog, while Toxapex lays down Toxic Spikes to put pressure on the likes of Chansey, Tapu Koko, and Kyurem-B, and Shed Shell variants of Toxapex can switch into Heatran's Magma Storm and remove its Leftovers with Knock Off. Magnezone can remove a lot of pressure for it by trapping and eliminating Steel-types like Mega Scizor, Ferrothorn, and Skarmory, giving it more freedom to drop Hidden Power Fire. Magearna is also a fantastic partner, as it can bring Serperior in safely via Volt Switch and solidly answers the likes of Weavile, Tornadus-T, and Mega Latias. Strong wallbreakers like Mega Medicham, Mega Mawile, and Tapu Lele soften checks like Magearna for Serperior to clean up later in the game and appreciate the paralysis support from Glare, letting them threaten faster checks like Tornadus-T. Serperior also appreciates Weavile punishing switch-ins with Knock Off, weakening the likes of Chansey, trapping and removing Tornadus-T and Mega Latias with Pursuit, and revenge killing Dragon-types like Kommo-o and Dragonite. Serperior forms a splendid partnership with Mega Diancie, as Serperior checks bulky Water-types like Gastrodon, and in return, Mega Diancie handles Fire- and Flying-types like Volcarona, Mega Charizard Y, Zapdos, and Tornadus-T and blocks entry hazards thanks to Magic Bounce. On sand teams, Mega Tyranitar and Sand Rush Excadrill greatly appreciate Serperior handling bulky Water-types like Rotom-W, Seismitoad, and Tapu Fini, as well as the paralysis support that Serperior's Glare provides. In return, Mega Tyranitar solidly answers the likes of Heatran and Tornadus-T, and it can potentially eliminate the latter with Pursuit, while Excadrill is grateful for Serperior pressuring Ground- and Water-type checks like Landorus-T and Mega Swampert. Swords Dance variants of Mega Garchomp also benefit from the paralysis support that Serperior’s Glare provides, crippling faster targets like Mega Latias and Tornadus-T and potentially granting Mega Garchomp extra setup opportunities due to the chance of full paralysis. On sun teams, Fire-type teammates like Mega Charizard Y and Victini greatly benefit from Serperior removing Mega Diancie, and in return, they threaten Steel-types like Mega Scizor, Ferrothorn, and Celesteela. The sun provided by Mega Charizard Y also grants Serperior's Hidden Power Fire an extra power boost and allows Serperior to have a higher chance of 2HKOing Celesteela and defensive Magearna with a boosted Hidden Power Fire. Additionally, both Fire-types benefit from the paralysis from Serperior's Glare crippling targets like Toxapex and Mega Latias, and the chance of full paralysis prevents them from healing, allowing these Fire-types to break through these targets more easily.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============

Nature Power paired with Normalium Z provides Serperior with an extra coverage option if it is paired with Tapu Koko or Tapu Fini, letting it lure in and eliminate Tornadus-T with Thunderbolt and Dragon-types like Kommo-o and Kyurem-B with Moonblast. However, this forces Serperior to give up Substitute, leaving it vulnerable to status attempts such as Toxic from Toxapex. Serperior can make use of other Hidden Power types, such as Hidden Power Rock to handle the likes of Zapdos, Mega Charizard Y, and Volcarona, Hidden Power Ground to take on Heatran, and Hidden Power Ice to blow through Dragonite. However, giving up Hidden Power Fire is not desirable, (AC) as it leaves Mega Scizor, Ferrothorn, Magnezone, and Skarmory able to switch in more freely. Synthesis enables Serperior to stay healthy to continue checking bulky Water-types like Tapu Fini and Slowbro. The support from the sun provided by Mega Charizard Y also allows Serperior to regain more health with Synthesis. However, sand and rain can reduce the amount of HP that Serperior can recover. Grassium Z can be used to turn a boosted Leaf Storm into a one-time nuke and deal massive damage to targets like Chansey and Magearna.

Checks and Counters
===================

**Ice-type Pokemon and Coverage**: Weavile is faster than Serperior and threatens an immediate OHKO with Icicle Crash or picks it off with Ice Shard. Ice-type coverage moves, such as Hidden Power Ice from Tapu Koko, Ice Punch from Mega Swampert under the rain, and Ice Beam from Mega Latias and Greninja, also threaten Serperior with major damage.

**Fire-type Pokemon**: Heatran, both Mega Charizard formes, and Volcarona do not take much from a boosted Leaf Storm and will fire back with their super effective attacks. Additionally, Volcarona can bypass Substitute and threaten Serperior with Bug Buzz. However, none of them enjoy taking Glare, while the former three must watch out for Leech Seed.

**Steel-type Pokemon**: Celesteela and Magearna can take Serperior's boosted Hidden Power Fire and retaliate back with heavy damage. If Serperior lacks Hidden Power Fire, Mega Scizor, Ferrothorn, and Skarmory can come in freely and threaten it with U-turn, status from Thunder Wave, and phazing with Whirlwind, respectively. However, the latter two don't appreciate being shut down by Taunt or having their items removed with Knock Off.

**Dragon-type Pokemon**: Kyurem-B, Mega Latias, and Dragonite can take Leaf Storm pretty well and force it out with their super effective attacks. Kommo-o can also use Serperior as setup fodder and bypass Substitute with Clangorous Soulblaze. None of them enjoy switching into Glare and Leech Seed, however. Mega Altaria is also worth mentioning because it can make use of Natural Cure before Mega Evolution to shrug off paralysis, and it can phaze Serperior out with Roar; however, it despises being shut down by Taunt.

**Flying-type Pokemon**: Tornadus-T, Mega Pinsir, and Zapdos can switch into Serperior and threaten it back with major damage. However, the former two do not like switching into Glare. Hawlucha deserves a special mention because it can use Serperior as setup fodder, and it forces Serperior out with Acrobatics; however, it doesn't like switching into Glare or a boosted Leaf Storm.

**Faster Pokemon and Priority**: Mega Alakazam, Protean Greninja, Tornadus-T, and Choice Scarf users, such as Landorus-T, Tapu Lele, and Victini, all outpace Serperior and threaten it with heavy damage. Strong priority users like Mega Medicham, Mega Lopunny, Mega Mawile, and Mega Pinsir will pick off Serperior after prior chip damage, but the Taunt + Defog variant can punish them in return thanks to Rocky Helmet.

[CREDITS]
Written by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/favmon-garchomp.653095/
Quality checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/zinnias.569291/
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/skypenguin.462413/
Grammar checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/user5.104/

GP Check 1/1

a-blue-banana2-gif.645977
 
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