PU Bouffalant (QC 3/3) (GP 2/2)

[TJ]

uploading -mz

[OVERVIEW]

Bouffalant carves a small niche in PU thanks to its solid bulk, high base Attack, and access to Sap Sipper, giving it opportunities to set up on Pokemon like Clefairy, break down balance teams, and blanket check Grass-type Pokemon like Lilligant and Victreebel. However, Bouffalant faces heavy competition from other Normal-type wallbreakers such as Stoutland and Kangashan, which are stronger, are faster, and don't struggle as much against bulky walls like Quagsire. Dodrio and Alolan Raticate also serve as better offensive Swords Dance users, while Type: Null and Drampa have better bulk and access to reliable recovery. Additionally, Bouffalant tends to be complete setup bait for Ghost-types like Oricorio-G and Haunter and struggles against prevalent Ghost-types like Sabelye and Jellicent. Furthermore, Bouffalant lacks reliable recovery, meaning it can be worn down quickly between entry hazards and losing HP from setting up Substitute. Its low Speed also means that it will have to take a hit before firing off an attack or setting up a Substitute. Lastly, Bouffalant's Normal typing leaves it with almost no resistances other than an immunity to Grass thanks to Sap Sipper and leaves it weak to common Fighting-types and strong physical attackers that carry super effective coverage moves like Gurdurr, Primeape, Absol, and Aggron.

[SET]
name: Substitute + Swords Dance
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Swords Dance
move 3: Return
move 4: Earthquake
item: Leftovers
ability: Sap Sipper
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 156 SpD / 100 Spe

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

Substitute allows Bouffalant to set up Swords Dance on more passive Pokemon and avoid status moves that would cripple it such as Will-O-Wisp and Toxic. Earthquake hits Pokemon that are immune to or resist Bouffalant's Return, such as Jellicent, Regirock, and Aggron.

Set Details
========

252 HP and 156 Special Defense EVs prevent defensive Mesprit from breaking Bouffalant's Substitute with Psychic and allow it to take +1 Breakneck Blitz from Lilligant after Stealth Rock. The remaining 100 Speed EVs allow Bouffalant to outspeed uninvested Lanturn.

Usage Tips
========

Bouffalant should be kept healthy to check Pokemon like Lilligant and aim to set up early- to mid-game. Don't set up Swords Dance or Substitute if you need Bouffalant healthy to take on Lilligant. Bouffalant should be brought in safely if possible with a double switch or via VoltTurn because it often takes damage before it can set up or attack on its own due to its low Speed. Thanks to Sap Sipper, Bouffalant can switch in safely on Grass-type attacks from the likes of Lilligant and Victreebel to gain an Attack boost and force them out. Bouffalant can also use its good special bulk to pivot on weaker special attackers like Mesprit, Lanturn, and Oricorio-E, though it should be wary of switching into Scald from Lanturn, as it can be crippled with a burn. Bouffalant has an easier time at setting up on passive Pokemon such as Gastrodon, Clefairy, and Tangela and Choice-locked Pokemon such as Jellicent locked into Shadow Ball. On forced switches, Bouffalant can also set up either Swords Dance or Substitute. Without access to reliable recovery, Bouffalant can be chipped very easily and therefore should be wary of switching into too many attacks. Bouffalant should also avoid being statused, as it needs to be healthy in order to set up and pivot into special attackers.

Team Options
========

Bouffalant fits well on balanced and bulky offensive teams thanks to its ability to check Pokemon like Lilligant and break down defensive teams that rely on passive bulky foes like Regirock and Metang as Normal-type checks. Bouffalant appreciates entry hazard support to break through its checks more easily. Entry hazard setters such as Froslass, Qwilfish, and Mesprit pair well with Bouffalant, as they all serve as Fighting-type checks to Pokemon like Primeape, Gurdurr, and Hitmonchan. Mesprit also provides U-turn support, which is nice for getting Bouffalant onto the field safely, while Qwilfish can cripple foes with Thunder Wave for Bouffalant. In return, Bouffalant can check special attackers like Eelektross for the aforementioned Pokemon. Pokemon such as Mudsdale and Regirock are helpful, as they can handle powerful wallbreakers such as Aggron and Stoutland, while also setting up Stealth Rock and luring foes and crippling them with Toxic, chipping away at Pokemon such as Sableye and Oricorio-G that Bouffalant struggles against. Pokemon that can remove entry hazards such as Skuntank and Alolan Sandslash are good partners, since Bouffalant gets worn down quickly between entry hazards and Substitute damage. Skuntank can also absorb Toxic Spikes and Pursuit trap Ghost-type Pokemon such as Haunter and Oricorio-G for Bouffalant. Pokemon such as Lycanroc and Oricorio-E appreciate Bouffalant's ability to weaken bulky Pokemon like Regirock and have an easier time at sweeping and wallbreaking late-game. Lastly, U-turn and Volt Switch users such as Mesprit and Lanturn are also good partners for Bouffalant because they can bring it onto the field safely and allow it to set up more freely. Mesprit also provides Healing Wish support, giving a second life to Bouffalant and allowing it to get back up to full HP and threaten the opponent's team again. Lanturn can also remove status for Bouffalant if it gets crippled by Will-O-Wisp or Toxic in the match. Mesprit and Lanturn also lure in passive Pokemon like Clefairy for Bouffalant.

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

An Assault Vest set with Pursuit is an option for allowing Bouffalant to check and Pursuit trap special attackers like Oricorio-G, Lilligant, and Jynx, but this set comes with a notable lack of power and faces competition from Stoutland and Kangaskhan. An alternative EV spread of 252 HP / 156 Atk / 100 Spe can be run to give Bouffalant more immediate power, but it prefers 156 EVs in Special Defense to check Lilligant better. While unorthodox, Cotton Guard boosts Bouffalant's Defense, allowing it to set up more easily on physical attackers such as Kangaskhan and Kabutops and act as a bulky wincon, but it has trouble fitting this into its moveset. Toxic can be run to cripple Ghost-type switch-ins such as Sabelye and Oricorio-G, but it still misses out on Haunter, and Bouffalant has trouble dropping a move for it.

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

**Ghost-types**: Bouffalant is walled and forced out by Ghost-types such as Sableye, Haunter, and Oricorio-G due to its lack of strong coverage moves. Sableye can cripple it with Taunt and Will-O-Wisp, while Oricorio-G and Haunter can set up either Calm Mind or Substitute freely.

**Fighting-types**: Fighting-type Pokemon such as Primeape, Hitmonchan, and Gurdurr all threaten to OHKO Bouffalant. Primeape can gain momentum against it via U-turn, Hitmonchan can remove entry hazards via Rapid Spin on a forced switch, and Gurdurr can take advantage of it with Bulk Up, although the former two cannot switch into a Return.

**Strong Physical Attackers**: Physical attackers such as Aggron and Absol muscle through Bouffalant and force it out with their powerful STAB attacks with ease, though they risk heavy damage if Bouffalant is behind a Substitute.

**Residual Damage**: Without a reliable form of recovery, Bouffalant is prone to getting worn by Toxic from Pokemon like Alolan Sandslash. Bouffalant can also struggle to switch in and set up Substitute if entry hazards are on the field.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[TJ, 331538 ]]
- Quality checked by: [[Megazard, 202117], [tondas, 442732 ], [TONE, 213583]]
- Grammar checked by: [[The Dutch Plumberjack, 232216], [Fireflame479, 231476]]

 

[MZ]

[OVERVIEW]

• Bouffalant carves a small niche in the PU tier thanks to Sap Sipper, making it a great pivot and blanket check to Grass-type Pokemon like Lilligant and Victreebel.
• Thanks to Bouffalant's solid bulk, high base Attack, and access to Swords Dance, it can find opportunities to set up on Pokemon like Clefairy and break down balance teams that rely heavily on bulky titans like Regirock and Metang via Earthquake.
• Despite Bouffalant's offensive prowess, it faces heavy competition from other Normal-type wallbreakers like Stoutland and Kangashan who are stronger, faster, and don't struggle as much against bulky walls like Quagsire or prevalent Ghost-types like Sabelye and Jellicent. Bouffalant also tends to be complete setup bait for Ghost-types like Oricorio-G and Haunter this kinda seems like a completely separate (albeit also very important) point. walled by ghosts and outclassed by other normals are very different. Dodrio and Alolan Raticate also serve as better offensive Swords Dance users, while Type: Null and Drampa have better bulk and access to reliable recovery.
• Unfortunately, Bouffalant lacks reliable recovery meaning it can be worn down quickly between entry hazards and its Substitute recoil damage. Bouffalant's low Speed also means it will have to take a hit before firing off an attack or setting up a Substitute.
• Lastly, Bouffalant's Normal-typing leaves it with almost no resistances other than Grass and leaves it weak to common Fighting-types and strong physical attackers who carry supper effective coverage moves like Gurdurr, Primeape, Absol, and Aggron.

[SET]
name: Substitute + Swords Dance
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Swords Dance
move 3: Return
move 4: Earthquake
item: Leftovers
ability: Sap Sipper
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 156 SpD / 100 Spe

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

• Substitute allows Bouffalant to set up Swords Dance on more passive Pokemon and avoid status moves that would cripple it such as Will-O-Wisp and Toxic.
• Earthquake hits Pokemon that are either immune to or resist Bouffalant's Return, such as Jellicent, Regirock, and Aggron.

Set Details
========

• 252 HP and 156 SpD EVs prevents defensive Mesprit from breaking Bouffalant's Substitute with psychic and allows it to live +1 Breakneck Blitz from Lilligant after Stealth Rock. The remaining 100 Spe EVs allow Bouffalant to outspeed uninvested Lanturn.

Usage Tips
========

• Bouffalant should aim to set up mid- to late-game, as it has a better time against its checks when they are worn down or removed. hard disagree, unless ur specifically keeping it healthy for something like lilligant (which u should mention, dont set up and use sub if u need this healthy), this is an early game breaker set on abusing their defensive mons that cant threaten u or break ur sub while those defensive mons are still fairly healthy. late game makes no sense since you've probably worn down the mons bouff likes to abuse and break
• Due to Sap Sipper, Bouffalant can switch in on Grass-type attacks from the likes of Lilligant and Victreebel to gain an Attack boost and force them out.
• Similarly, Bouffalant can use its good special bulk to pivot on Special Attackers like Mesprit, Lanturn, and Oricorio-E, though it should be wary of switching into Scald from Lanturn as it can be crippled with a burn.
• Without access to reliable recovery, Bouffalant can be chipped very easily and therefore should be wary of switching into too many attacks.
• Bouffalant should be brought in safely if possible with a double switch or via VoltTurn because it often takes damage before it it can set up or attack on its own due to its low speed.
• Bouffalant has an easier time at setting up on passive and choiced-locked Pokemon such as Gastrodon, Clefairy, and Jellicent locked into shadow ball. On forced switches, Bouffalant can also set up either Swords Dance or Substitute.

Team Options
========

• Bouffalant fits well on balanced and bulky offensive team, thanks to its ability to check Pokemon like Lilligant and break down defensive teams who rely on passive bulky foes like Regirock and Metang as Normal-type checks.
• Bouffalant appreciates entry hazard support to break through its check more easily. Entry hazard setters such as Froslass, Qwilfish, and Mesprit pair well with Bouffalant as they all serve as Fighting-type checks to Pokemon like Primeape. Mesprit also provides U-turn support, which is nice for getting Bouffalant onto the field safely, while Qwilfish can cripple foes with Thunder Wave for Bouffalant. In return, Bouffalant can check special attackers like Eelektross and Houndoom for the aforementioned Pokemon.
• Pokemon such as Mudsdale and Regirock are helpful, as they can handle powerful wallbreakers such as Aggron and Stoutland, while also setting up Stealth Rock and luring foes with Toxic, chipping away at Pokemon such as Sableye and Oricorio-G that Bouffalant struggles against.
• Pokemon that can remove entry hazards such as Skuntank and Alolan Sandslash are good partners since Bouffalant gets worn down quickly between entry hazards and Substitute recoil damage. Skuntank can also absorb Toxic Spikes and Pursuit trap Ghost-type Pokemon such as Haunter and Oricrio-G for Bouffalant.
• Pokemon such as Lycanroc and Oricorio-E appreciate Bouffalant's ability to weaken bulky titans like Regirock and have an easier time at sweeping and wallbreaking late-game.
• Lastly, U-turn and Volt Switch users such as Mesprit and Lanturn are also good partners for Bouffalant because they can bring it onto the field safely and allow it to set up more freely. Mesprit also provides Healing Wish support which gives second life to Bouffalant, allowing it to get back up to full HP and threaten the opponent's team again. Lanturn can also remove status for Bouffalant if it gets crippled by Will-O-Wisp or Toxic in the match.

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

• An Assault Vest set is an option for allowing Bouffalant to check and Pursuit trap special attackers like Oricorio-G and Jynx, but this set comes with a notable lack of power.
• Cotton Guard boosts Bouffalant's Defense, allowing it to set up easier on physical attackers such as Kangaskan and Kabutops and act as a bulky wincon, but it has trouble fitting this into its moveset.
• An alternate EV spread of 252 HP / 156 Atk / 100 Spe can be run to give Bouffalant more immediate power, but it prefers 156 EVs in Spd to check Lilligant better.

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

**Ghost-types**: Bouffalant is walled by Ghost-types such as Sableye, Haunter, and Oricorio-G due to its lack of strong coverage moves, which forces it out. Sableye can cripple it with Taunt and Will-O-Wisp, while Oricorio-G and Haunter can set up either Calm Mind or Substitute freely.

**Fighting-types**: Fighting-type Pokemon such as Primeape, Hitmonchan, Gurdurr, all threaten to OHKO Bouffalant. Primeape can gain momentum against it via U-turn; Hitmonchan can remove entry hazard via Rapid Spin on a forced switch, and Gurdurr can take advantage of it with Bulk Up, albeit the former two can not switch into a Return.

**Strong Physical attackers**: Physical attackers such as Aggron and Absol muscle through Bouffalant and force it out with their powerful STAB attacks with ease.

**Residual Damage**: Without a reliable form of recovery, Bouffalant is prone to getting worn by Toxic from Pokemon like Alolan Sandslash. Bouffalant can also struggle to switch into the field and set up Substitute if entry hazards are on the field.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[TJ, 331538 ]]
- Quality checked by: [[, ], [, ], [, ]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]

1/3

 

[TJ]

Ready for 2/3

 

[tondas]

[OVERVIEW]

• Bouffalant carves a small niche in the PU tier thanks to Sap Sipper, making it a great pivot and blanket check to Grass-type Pokemon like Lilligant and Victreebel.
• Thanks to Bouffalant's solid bulk, high base Attack, and access to Swords Dance, it can find opportunities to set up on Pokemon like Clefairy and break down balance teams that rely heavily on bulky titans like Regirock and Metang via Earthquake.
• Despite Bouffalant's offensive prowess, it faces heavy competition from other Normal-type wallbreakers like Stoutland and Kangashan who are stronger, faster, and don't struggle as much against bulky walls like Quagsire. Dodrio and Alolan Raticate also serve as better offensive Swords Dance users, while Type: Null and Drampa have better bulk and access to reliable recovery.
• Bouffalant also tends to be complete setup bait for Ghost-types like Oricorio-G and Haunter and struggles against prevalent Ghost-types like Sabelye and Jellicent.
• Unfortunately, Bouffalant lacks reliable recovery meaning it can be worn down quickly between entry hazards and its Substitute recoil damage. Bouffalant's low Speed also means it will have to take a hit before firing off an attack or setting up a Substitute.
• Lastly, Bouffalant's Normal-typing leaves it with almost no resistances other than Grass and leaves it weak to common Fighting-types and strong physical attackers who carry supper effective coverage moves like Gurdurr, Primeape, Absol, and Aggron.

[SET]
name: Substitute + Swords Dance
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Swords Dance
move 3: Return
move 4: Earthquake
item: Leftovers
ability: Sap Sipper
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 156 SpD / 100 Spe

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

• Substitute allows Bouffalant to set up Swords Dance on more passive Pokemon and avoid status moves that would cripple it such as Will-O-Wisp and Toxic.
• Earthquake hits Pokemon that are either immune to or resist Bouffalant's Return, such as Jellicent, Regirock, and Aggron.

Set Details
========

• 252 HP and 156 SpD EVs prevents defensive Mesprit from breaking Bouffalant's Substitute with Psychic and allows it to live +1 Breakneck Blitz from Lilligant after Stealth Rock. The remaining 100 Spe EVs allow Bouffalant to outspeed uninvested Lanturn.

Usage Tips
========

• Bouffalant should aim to set up early-to mid-game and should stay healthy to check Pokemon like Lilligant. Don't set up Swords Dance or Substitute if you need Bouffalant healthy to take on Lilligant.
• Due to Sap Sipper, Bouffalant can switch in on Grass-type attacks from the likes of Lilligant and Victreebel to gain an Attack boost and force them out (I'd add tangela to this list since you can also sub on this and set up pretty much for free, tho this might fit better under setup targets, your call).
• Similarly, Bouffalant can use its good special bulk to pivot on Special Attackers like Mesprit, Lanturn, and Oricorio-E, though it should be wary of switching into Scald from Lanturn as it can be crippled with a burn.
• Without access to reliable recovery, Bouffalant can be chipped very easily and therefore should be wary of switching into too many attacks.
• Bouffalant should be brought in safely if possible with a double switch or via VoltTurn because it often takes damage before it it can set up or attack on its own due to its low speed.
• Bouffalant has an easier time at setting up on passive and choiced-locked Pokemon such as Gastrodon, Clefairy, and Jellicent locked into Shadow Ball. On forced switches, Bouffalant can also set up either Swords Dance or Substitute.
• (mention avoiding status moves since burns/toxic are detrimental to bouff since it functions on long-term setup and being healthy enough to pivot into stuff like lilligant. you can likely make this an extension of bullet 4)

Team Options
========

• Bouffalant fits well on balanced and bulky offensive team, thanks to its ability to check Pokemon like Lilligant and break down defensive teams who rely on passive bulky foes like Regirock and Metang as Normal-type checks.
• Bouffalant appreciates entry hazard support to break through its check more easily. Entry hazard setters such as Froslass, Qwilfish, and Mesprit pair well with Bouffalant as they all serve as Fighting-type checks to Pokemon like Primeape (mention hitmonchan/gurdurr too since ape can uturn out of these). Mesprit also provides U-turn support, which is nice for getting Bouffalant onto the field safely, while Qwilfish can cripple foes with Thunder Wave for Bouffalant. In return, Bouffalant can check special attackers like Eelektross and Houndoom (this is quite shaky to mention rn, and technically it's banned as of now so id def replace this) for the aforementioned Pokemon.
• Pokemon such as Mudsdale and Regirock are helpful, as they can handle powerful wallbreakers such as Aggron and Stoutland, while also setting up Stealth Rock and luring foes with Toxic, chipping away at Pokemon such as Sableye and Oricorio-G that Bouffalant struggles against.
• Pokemon that can remove entry hazards such as Skuntank and Alolan Sandslash are good partners since Bouffalant gets worn down quickly between entry hazards and Substitute recoil damage. Skuntank can also absorb Toxic Spikes and Pursuit trap Ghost-type Pokemon such as Haunter and Oricrio-G for Bouffalant.
• Pokemon such as Lycanroc and Oricorio-E appreciate Bouffalant's ability to weaken bulky titans like Regirock and have an easier time at sweeping and wallbreaking late-game.
• Lastly, U-turn and Volt Switch users such as Mesprit and Lanturn are also good partners for Bouffalant because they can bring it onto the field safely and allow it to set up more freely. Mesprit also provides Healing Wish support which gives second life to Bouffalant, allowing it to get back up to full HP and threaten the opponent's team again. Lanturn can also remove status for Bouffalant if it gets crippled by Will-O-Wisp or Toxic in the match (both of these also lure spdef walls like clefairy and grass-types respectively).

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

• An Assault Vest set is an option for allowing Bouffalant to check and Pursuit trap special attackers like Oricorio-G and Jynx (also better at checking lilligant), but this set comes with a notable lack of power (aoa sets also have massive competition with stoutland and kanga).
• Cotton Guard boosts Bouffalant's Defense, allowing it to set up easier on physical attackers such as Kangaskan and Kabutops and act as a bulky wincon, but it has trouble fitting this into its moveset.
• An alternate EV spread of 252 HP / 156 Atk / 100 Spe can be run to give Bouffalant more immediate power, but it prefers 156 EVs in Spd to check Lilligant better.

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

**Ghost-types**: Bouffalant is walled by Ghost-types such as Sableye, Haunter, and Oricorio-G due to its lack of strong coverage moves, which forces it out (haunter and ori-g force you out bc your coverage cant touch them, not their lack in power). Sableye can cripple it with Taunt and Will-O-Wisp, while Oricorio-G and Haunter can set up either Calm Mind or Substitute freely.

**Fighting-types**: Fighting-type Pokemon such as Primeape, Hitmonchan, Gurdurr, all threaten to OHKO Bouffalant. Primeape can gain momentum against it via U-turn; Hitmonchan can remove entry hazard via Rapid Spin on a forced switch, and Gurdurr can take advantage of it with Bulk Up, albeit the former two can not switch into a Return.

**Strong Physical attackers**: Physical attackers such as Aggron and Absol muscle through Bouffalant and force it out with their powerful STAB attacks with ease (though they risk taking heavy damage if bouff is already behind a sub).

**Residual Damage**: Without a reliable form of recovery, Bouffalant is prone to getting worn by Toxic from Pokemon like Alolan Sandslash. Bouffalant can also struggle to switch into the field and set up Substitute if entry hazards are on the field.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[TJ, 331538 ]]
- Quality checked by: [[Megazard, 202117], [, ], [, ]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]

2/3, couple minor typos scattered throughout the analysis so be sure to read over and fix those, good work tho

 

[TJ]

Ready for 3/3

 

[TONE]

[OVERVIEW]

Bouffalant carves a small niche in PU thanks to its solid bulk, high base Attack, and access to Sap Sipper, giving it opportunities to set up on Pokemon like Clefairy, break down balance teams, and blanket check Grass-type Pokemon like Lilligant and Victreebel. However, Bouffalant faces heavy competition from other Normal-type wallbreakers such as Stoutland and Kangashan who are stronger, faster, and don't struggle as much against bulky walls like Quagsire. Dodrio and Alolan Raticate also serve as better offensive Swords Dance users, while Type: Null and Drampa have better bulk and access to reliable recovery. Additionally, Bouffalant tends to be complete setup bait for Ghost-types like Oricorio-G and Haunter and struggles against prevalent Ghost-types like Sabelye and Jellicent. Furthermore, Bouffalant lacks reliable recovery meaning it can be worn down quickly between entry hazards and its Substitute recoil damage. Its low Speed also means that it will have to take a hit before firing off an attack or setting up a Substitute. Lastly, Bouffalant's Normal-typing leaves it with almost no resistances other than Grass and leaves it weak to common Fighting-types and strong physical attackers who carry super effective coverage moves like Gurdurr, Primeape, Absol, and Aggron.

[SET]
name: Substitute + Swords Dance
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Swords Dance
move 3: Return
move 4: Earthquake
item: Leftovers
ability: Sap Sipper
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 156 SpD / 100 Spe

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

Substitute allows Bouffalant to set up Swords Dance on more passive Pokemon and avoid status moves that would cripple it such as Will-O-Wisp and Toxic. Earthquake hits Pokemon that are either immune to or resist Bouffalant's Return, such as Jellicent, Regirock, and Aggron.

Set Details
========

252 HP and 156 SpD EVs prevents defensive Mesprit from breaking Bouffalant's Substitute with Psychic and allows it to live +1 Breakneck Blitz from Lilligant after Stealth Rock. The remaining 100 Spe EVs allow Bouffalant to outspeed uninvested Lanturn.

Usage Tips
========

Bouffalant should be kept healthy to check Pokemon like Lilligant and should aim to set up early-to mid-game. Don't set up Swords Dance or Substitute if you need Bouffalant healthy to take on Lilligant. Bouffalant should be brought in safely if possible with a double switch or via VoltTurn because it often takes damage before it can set up or attack on its own due to its low speed. Thanks to Sap Sipper, Bouffalant can switch in safely on Grass-type attacks from the likes of Lilligant and Victreebel to gain an Attack boost and force them out. Bouffalant can also use its good special bulk to pivot on weaker Special Attackers like Mesprit, Lanturn, and Oricorio-E, though it should be wary of switching into Scald from Lanturn as it can be crippled with a burn. Bouffalant has an easier time at setting up on passive and choiced-locked Pokemon such as Gastrodon, Clefairy, Tangela, and Jellicent locked into Shadow Ball. On forced switches, Bouffalant can also set up either Swords Dance or Substitute. Without access to reliable recovery, Bouffalant can be chipped very easily and therefore should be wary of switching into too many attacks. Bouffalant should also avoid being statused as it needs to be healthy in order to set up and pivot into Special attackers.

Team Options
========

Bouffalant fits well on balanced and bulky offensive team, thanks to its ability to check Pokemon like Lilligant and break down defensive teams who rely on passive bulky foes like Regirock and Metang as Normal-type checks. Bouffalant appreciates entry hazard support to break through its check more easily. Entry hazard setters such as Froslass, Qwilfish, and Mesprit pair well with Bouffalant as they all serve as Fighting-type checks to Pokemon like Primeape, Gurdurr, and Hitmonchan. Mesprit also provides U-turn support, which is nice for getting Bouffalant onto the field safely, while Qwilfish can cripple foes with Thunder Wave for Bouffalant. In return, Bouffalant can check special attackers like Eelektross for the aforementioned Pokemon. Pokemon such as Mudsdale and Regirock are helpful, as they can handle powerful wallbreakers such as Aggron and Stoutland, while also setting up Stealth Rock and luring foes with Toxic, chipping away at Pokemon such as Sableye and Oricorio-G that Bouffalant struggles against. Pokemon that can remove entry hazards such as Skuntank and Alolan Sandslash are good partners since Bouffalant gets worn down quickly between entry hazards and Substitute recoil damage. Skuntank can also absorb Toxic Spikes and Pursuit trap Ghost-type Pokemon such as Haunter and Oricrio-G for Bouffalant. Pokemon such as Lycanroc and Oricorio-E appreciate Bouffalant's ability to weaken bulky titans like Regirock and have an easier time at sweeping and wallbreaking late-game. Lastly, U-turn and Volt Switch users such as Mesprit and Lanturn are also good partners for Bouffalant because they can bring it onto the field safely and allow it to set up more freely. Mesprit also provides Healing Wish support, giving second life to Bouffalant and allowing it to get back up to full HP and threaten the opponent's team again. Lanturn can also remove status for Bouffalant if it gets crippled by Will-O-Wisp or Toxic in the match. Mesprit and Lanturn also lure passive Pokemon like Clefairy for Bouffalant.

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

An Assault Vest set is an option for allowing Bouffalant to check and Pursuit trap special attackers like Oricorio-G, Lilligant and Jynx, but this set comes with a notable lack of power and faces competiton with Stoutland and Kangaskhan. An alternate EV spread of 252 HP / 156 Atk / 100 Spe can be run to give Bouffalant more immediate power, but it prefers 156 EVs in Spd to check Lilligant better. (Idt it's worth mentioning this part as the added Attack EVs don't really do anything beneficial for Bouffalant.)While unorthodox, Cotton Guard boosts Bouffalant's Defense, allowing it to set up easier on physical attackers such as Kangaskan and Kabutops and act as a bulky wincon, but it has trouble fitting this into its moveset. (Toxic maybe to wear down Quagsire and cripple Ghosts on the switch?)

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

**Ghost-types**: Bouffalant is walled by Ghost-types such as Sableye, Haunter, and Oricorio-G due to its lack of strong coverage moves, which forces it out. Sableye can cripple it with Taunt and Will-O-Wisp, while Oricorio-G and Haunter can set up either Calm Mind or Substitute freely.

**Fighting-types**: Fighting-type Pokemon such as Primeape, Hitmonchan, Gurdurr, all threaten to OHKO Bouffalant. Primeape can gain momentum against it via U-turn; Hitmonchan can remove entry hazard via Rapid Spin on a forced switch, and Gurdurr can take advantage of it with Bulk Up, albeit the former two can not switch into a Return.

**Strong Physical attackers**: Physical attackers such as Aggron and Absol muscle through Bouffalant and force it out with their powerful STAB attacks with ease, though they risk heavy damage if Bouffalant is behind a Substittue.

**Residual Damage**: Without a reliable form of recovery, Bouffalant is prone to getting worn by Toxic from Pokemon like Alolan Sandslash. Bouffalant can also struggle to switch into the field and set up Substitute if entry hazards are on the field.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[TJ, 331538 ]]
- Quality checked by: [[Megazard, 202117], [, ], [, ]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]

QC 3/3.

 

[Astra]

amcheck
add remove (comments)

afro guy

[OVERVIEW]

Bouffalant carves a small niche in PU thanks to its solid bulk, high base Attack, and access to Sap Sipper, (fixed spacing)giving it opportunities to set up on Pokemon like Clefairy, break down balance teams, and blanket check (fixed spacing)Grass-type Pokemon like Lilligant and Victreebel. However, Bouffalant faces heavy competition from other Normal-type wallbreakers such as Stoutland and Kangashan, (AC) which who are stronger, faster, and don't struggle as much against bulky walls like Quagsire. Dodrio and Alolan Raticate also serve as better offensive Swords Dance users, while Type: Null and Drampa have better bulk and access to reliable recovery. Additionally, Bouffalant tends to be complete setup bait for Ghost-types like Oricorio-G and Haunter and struggles against prevalent Ghost-types like Sabelye and Jellicent. Furthermore, Bouffalant lacks reliable recovery, (AC) meaning it can be worn down quickly between entry hazards and its loosing HP from setting up Substitutes recoil damage. Its low Speed also means that it will have to take a hit before firing off an attack or setting up a Substitute. Lastly, Bouffalant's Normal-typing (RH) leaves it with almost no resistances other than an immunity to Grass thanks to Sap Sipper (these changes were for clarity; would have otherwise sounded like bouffalant was naturally resistant to grass plus clarity that it's actually an immunity) and leaves it weak to common Fighting-types and strong physical attackers who that carry super effective coverage moves like Gurdurr, Primeape, Absol, and Aggron.

[SET]
name: Substitute + Swords Dance
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Swords Dance
move 3: Return
move 4: Earthquake
item: Leftovers
ability: Sap Sipper
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 156 SpD / 100 Spe

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

Substitute allows Bouffalant to set up Swords Dance on more passive Pokemon and avoid status moves that would cripple it such as Will-O-Wisp and Toxic. Earthquake hits Pokemon that are either immune to or resist Bouffalant's Return, such as Jellicent, Regirock, and Aggron.

Set Details
========

252 HP and 156 SpD Special Defense EVs prevents defensive Mesprit from breaking Bouffalant's Substitute with Psychic and allows it to live +1 Breakneck Blitz from Lilligant after Stealth Rock. The remaining 100 Speed EVs allow Bouffalant to outspeed uninvested Lanturn.

Usage Tips
========

Bouffalant should be kept healthy to check Pokemon like Lilligant and should aim to set up early- (fixed spacing)to mid-game. Don't set up Swords Dance or Substitute if you need Bouffalant healthy to take on Lilligant. Bouffalant should be brought in safely if possible with a double switch or via VoltTurn because it often takes damage before it can set up or attack on its own due to its low speed Speed. Thanks to Sap Sipper, Bouffalant can switch in safely on Grass-type attacks from the likes of Lilligant and Victreebel to gain an Attack boost and force them out. Bouffalant can also use its good special bulk to pivot on weaker Special Attackers special attackers like Mesprit, Lanturn, and Oricorio-E, though it should be wary of switching into Scald from Lanturn, (AC) as it can be crippled with a burn. Bouffalant has an easier time at setting up on passive and choiced-locked Pokemon such as Gastrodon, Clefairy, and Tangela, (RC) and Choice-locked Pokemon such as Jellicent locked into Shadow Ball. (assuming that jellicent is the only one that runs a choice item) On forced switches, Bouffalant can also set up either Swords Dance or Substitute. Without access to reliable recovery, Bouffalant can be chipped very easily and therefore should be wary of switching into too many attacks. Bouffalant should also avoid being statused inflicted by status, (AC) as it needs to be healthy in order to set up and pivot into Special special attackers.

Team Options
========

Bouffalant fits well on balanced and bulky offensive team, teams thanks to its ability to check Pokemon like Lilligant and break down defensive teams who that rely on passive bulky foes like Regirock and Metang as Normal-type checks. Bouffalant appreciates entry hazard support to break through its checks more easily. Entry hazard setters such as Froslass, Qwilfish, and Mesprit pair well with Bouffalant, (AC) as they all serve as Fighting-type checks to Pokemon like Primeape, Gurdurr, and Hitmonchan. Mesprit also provides U-turn support, which is nice for getting Bouffalant onto the field safely, while Qwilfish can cripple foes with Thunder Wave for Bouffalant. In return, Bouffalant can check special attackers like Eelektross for the aforementioned Pokemon. Pokemon such as Mudsdale and Regirock are helpful, as they can handle powerful wallbreakers such as Aggron and Stoutland, (RC) while also setting up Stealth Rock and luring foes with Toxic, chipping away at Pokemon that Bouffalant struggle against such as Sableye and Oricorio-G that Bouffalant struggles against. Pokemon that can remove entry hazards such as Skuntank and Alolan Sandslash are good partners, (AC) since Bouffalant gets worn down quickly between entry hazards and Substitute recoil damage. Skuntank can also absorb Toxic Spikes and Pursuit trap Ghost-type Pokemon such as Haunter and Oricorio-G for Bouffalant. Pokemon such as Lycanroc and Oricorio-E appreciate Bouffalant's ability to weaken bulky titans Pokemon like Regirock and have an easier time at sweeping and wallbreaking late-game. Lastly, U-turn and Volt Switch users such as Mesprit and Lanturn are also good partners for Bouffalant because they can bring it onto the field safely and allow it to set up more freely. Mesprit also provides Healing Wish support, giving a second life to Bouffalant and allowing it to get back up to full HP and threaten the opponent's team again. Lanturn can also remove status for Bouffalant if it gets crippled by Will-O-Wisp or Toxic in the match. Mesprit and Lanturn also lure passive Pokemon like Clefairy for Bouffalant.

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

An Assault Vest set is an option for allowing Bouffalant to check and Pursuit trap special attackers like Oricorio-G, Lilligant, (AC) and Jynx, but this set comes with a notable lack of power and faces competiton competition with Stoutland and Kangaskhan. An alternate alternative EV spread of 252 HP / 156 Atk / 100 Spe can be run to give Bouffalant more immediate power, but it prefers 156 EVs in Spd Speed to check Lilligant better. While unorthodox, Cotton Guard boosts Bouffalant's Defense, allowing it to set up easier more easily (more easily is used as an adverb; easier is used as an adjective) on physical attackers such as Kangaskan and Kabutops and act as a bulky wincon, but it has trouble fitting this into its moveset. Toxic can be run to cripple Ghost-switchins Ghost-type switch-ins such as Sabelye and Oricorio-G, (AC) but this still misses out on Haunter, (AC) and Bouffalant has trouble dropping a move for it.

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

**Ghost-types**: Bouffalant is walled and forced out by Ghost-types such as Sableye, Haunter, and Oricorio-G due to its lack of strong coverage moves, which forces it out. Sableye can cripple it with Taunt and Will-O-Wisp, while Oricorio-G and Haunter can set up either Calm Mind or Substitute freely.

**Fighting-types**: Fighting-type Pokemon such as Primeape, Hitmonchan, and Gurdurr, (RC) all threaten to OHKO Bouffalant. Primeape can gain momentum against it via U-turn;, (semicolon -> comma) Hitmonchan can remove entry hazards via Rapid Spin on a forced switch, and Gurdurr can take advantage of it with Bulk Up, albeit the former two can not switch into a Return.

**Strong Physical attackers Attackers**: Physical attackers such as Aggron and Absol muscle through Bouffalant and force it out with their powerful STAB attacks with ease, though they risk heavy damage if Bouffalant is behind a Substittue Substitute.

**Residual Damage**: Without a reliable form of recovery, Bouffalant is prone to getting worn by Toxic from Pokemon like Alolan Sandslash. Bouffalant can also struggle to switch into onto the field and set up Substitute if entry hazards are on the field.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[TJ, 331538 ]]
- Quality checked by: [[Megazard, 202117], [tondas, 442732 ], [TONE, 213583]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]

 

[Lumari]

Estronic: add remove (comments)
tdp: add / fix remove (comments); (AC=add comma; RC=remove comma; SC=semicolon)
GP 1/2

afro guy

[OVERVIEW]

Bouffalant carves a small niche in PU thanks to its solid bulk, high base Attack, and access to Sap Sipper, (fixed spacing)giving it opportunities to set up on Pokemon like Clefairy, break down balance teams, and blanket check (fixed spacing)Grass-type Pokemon like Lilligant and Victreebel. However, Bouffalant faces heavy competition from other Normal-type wallbreakers such as Stoutland and Kangashan, (AC) which who are stronger, are (list parallelism) faster, and don't struggle as much against bulky walls like Quagsire. Dodrio and Alolan Raticate also serve as better offensive Swords Dance users, while Type: Null and Drampa have better bulk and access to reliable recovery. Additionally, Bouffalant tends to be complete setup bait for Ghost-types like Oricorio-G and Haunter and struggles against prevalent Ghost-types like Sabelye and Jellicent. Furthermore, Bouffalant lacks reliable recovery, (AC) meaning it can be worn down quickly between entry hazards and its losing HP from setting up (one o) Substitutes recoil damage. (or just "Substitute damage") Its low Speed also means that it will have to take a hit before firing off an attack or setting up a Substitute. Lastly, Bouffalant's Normal-typing (RH) leaves it with almost no resistances other than an immunity to Grass thanks to Sap Sipper (these changes were for clarity; would have otherwise sounded like bouffalant was naturally resistant to grass plus clarity that it's actually an immunity) and leaves it weak to common Fighting-types and strong physical attackers who that carry super effective coverage moves like Gurdurr, Primeape, Absol, and Aggron.

[SET]
name: Substitute + Swords Dance
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Swords Dance
move 3: Return
move 4: Earthquake
item: Leftovers
ability: Sap Sipper
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 156 SpD / 100 Spe

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

Substitute allows Bouffalant to set up Swords Dance on more passive Pokemon and avoid status moves that would cripple it such as Will-O-Wisp and Toxic. Earthquake hits Pokemon that are either (should've been moved before "are" if anything bc parallelism) immune to or resist Bouffalant's Return, such as Jellicent, Regirock, and Aggron.

Set Details
========

252 HP and 156 SpD Special Defense EVs prevents defensive Mesprit from breaking Bouffalant's Substitute with Psychic and allows it to live take +1 Breakneck Blitz from Lilligant after Stealth Rock. The remaining 100 Speed EVs allow Bouffalant to outspeed uninvested Lanturn.

Usage Tips
========

Bouffalant should be kept healthy to check Pokemon like Lilligant and should aim to set up early- (fixed spacing)to mid-game. Don't set up Swords Dance or Substitute if you need Bouffalant healthy to take on Lilligant. Bouffalant should be brought in safely if possible with a double switch or via VoltTurn because it often takes damage before it can set up or attack on its own due to its low speed Speed. Thanks to Sap Sipper, Bouffalant can switch in safely on Grass-type attacks from the likes of Lilligant and Victreebel to gain an Attack boost and force them out. Bouffalant can also use its good special bulk to pivot on weaker Special Attackers special attackers like Mesprit, Lanturn, and Oricorio-E, though it should be wary of switching into Scald from Lanturn, (AC) as it can be crippled with a burn. Bouffalant has an easier time at setting up on passive and choiced-locked Pokemon such as Gastrodon, Clefairy, and Tangela, (RC) and Choice-locked Pokemon such as Jellicent locked into Shadow Ball. (assuming that jellicent is the only one that runs a choice item) On forced switches, Bouffalant can also set up either Swords Dance or Substitute. Without access to reliable recovery, Bouffalant can be chipped very easily and therefore should be wary of switching into too many attacks. Bouffalant should also avoid being statused inflicted by status, (AC) (statused is fine) as it needs to be healthy in order to set up and pivot into Special special attackers.

Team Options
========

Bouffalant fits well on balanced and bulky offensive team, teams thanks to its ability to check Pokemon like Lilligant and break down defensive teams who that rely on passive bulky foes like Regirock and Metang as Normal-type checks. Bouffalant appreciates entry hazard support to break through its checks more easily. Entry hazard setters such as Froslass, Qwilfish, and Mesprit pair well with Bouffalant, (AC) as they all serve as Fighting-type checks to Pokemon like Primeape, Gurdurr, and Hitmonchan. Mesprit also provides U-turn support, which is nice for getting Bouffalant onto the field safely, while Qwilfish can cripple foes with Thunder Wave for Bouffalant. In return, Bouffalant can check special attackers like Eelektross for the aforementioned Pokemon. Pokemon such as Mudsdale and Regirock are helpful, as they can handle powerful wallbreakers such as Aggron and Stoutland, (RC) while also setting up Stealth Rock and luring foes and crippling them with Toxic, chipping away at Pokemon that Bouffalant struggle against such as Sableye and Oricorio-G that Bouffalant struggles against. Pokemon that can remove entry hazards such as Skuntank and Alolan Sandslash are good partners, (AC) since Bouffalant gets worn down quickly between entry hazards and Substitute recoil damage. Skuntank can also absorb Toxic Spikes and Pursuit trap Ghost-type Pokemon such as Haunter and Oricorio-G for Bouffalant. Pokemon such as Lycanroc and Oricorio-E appreciate Bouffalant's ability to weaken bulky titans Pokemon like Regirock and have an easier time at sweeping and wallbreaking late-game. Lastly, U-turn and Volt Switch users such as Mesprit and Lanturn are also good partners for Bouffalant because they can bring it onto the field safely and allow it to set up more freely. Mesprit also provides Healing Wish support, giving a second life to Bouffalant and allowing it to get back up to full HP and threaten the opponent's team again. Lanturn can also remove status for Bouffalant if it gets crippled by Will-O-Wisp or Toxic in the match. Mesprit and Lanturn also lure passive Pokemon like Clefairy for Bouffalant.

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

An Assault Vest set is an option for allowing Bouffalant to check and Pursuit trap special attackers like Oricorio-G, Lilligant, (AC) and Jynx, but this set comes with a notable lack of power and faces competiton competition with Stoutland and Kangaskhan. An alternate alternative EV spread of 252 HP / 156 Atk / 100 Spe can be run to give Bouffalant more immediate power, but it prefers 156 EVs in Spd Speed to check Lilligant better. While unorthodox, Cotton Guard boosts Bouffalant's Defense, allowing it to set up easier more easily (more easily is used as an adverb; easier is used as an adjective) on physical attackers such as Kangaskan Kangaskhan and Kabutops and act as a bulky wincon, but it has trouble fitting this into its moveset. Toxic can be run to cripple Ghost-switchins Ghost-type switch-ins such as Sabelye and Oricorio-G, (AC) but this still misses out on Haunter, (AC) and Bouffalant has trouble dropping a move for it.

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

**Ghost-types**: Bouffalant is walled and forced out by Ghost-types such as Sableye, Haunter, and Oricorio-G due to its lack of strong coverage moves, which forces it out. Sableye can cripple it with Taunt and Will-O-Wisp, while Oricorio-G and Haunter can set up either Calm Mind or Substitute freely.

**Fighting-types**: Fighting-type Pokemon such as Primeape, Hitmonchan, and Gurdurr, (RC) all threaten to OHKO Bouffalant. Primeape can gain momentum against it via U-turn;, (semicolon -> comma) Hitmonchan can remove entry hazards via Rapid Spin on a forced switch, and Gurdurr can take advantage of it with Bulk Up, albeit although (albeit is an adverb not a conjunction) the former two can not switch into a Return.

**Strong Physical attackers Attackers**: Physical attackers such as Aggron and Absol muscle through Bouffalant and force it out with their powerful STAB attacks with ease, though they risk heavy damage if Bouffalant is behind a Substittue Substitute.

**Residual Damage**: Without a reliable form of recovery, Bouffalant is prone to getting worn by Toxic from Pokemon like Alolan Sandslash. Bouffalant can also struggle to switch into onto the field and set up Substitute if entry hazards are on the field.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[TJ, 331538 ]]
- Quality checked by: [[Megazard, 202117], [tondas, 442732 ], [TONE, 213583]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]

 

[Fireflame]

Remove Add Comments (AC)= add comma (RC)= remove comma (AH)= add hyphen (RH)= remove hyphen

Hide

[OVERVIEW]

Bouffalant carves a small niche in PU thanks to its solid bulk, high base Attack, and access to Sap Sipper, giving it opportunities to set up on Pokemon like Clefairy, break down balance teams, and blanket check Grass-type Pokemon like Lilligant and Victreebel. However, Bouffalant faces heavy competition from other Normal-type wallbreakers such as Stoutland and Kangashan, which are stronger, are faster, and don't struggle as much against bulky walls like Quagsire. Dodrio and Alolan Raticate also serve as better offensive Swords Dance users, while Type: Null and Drampa have better bulk and access to reliable recovery. Additionally, Bouffalant tends to be complete setup bait for Ghost-types like Oricorio-G and Haunter and struggles against prevalent Ghost-types like Sabelye and Jellicent. Furthermore, Bouffalant lacks reliable recovery, meaning it can be worn down quickly between entry hazards and losing HP from setting up Substitutes Substitute. Its low Speed also means that it will have to take a hit before firing off an attack or setting up a Substitute. Lastly, Bouffalant's Normal typing leaves it with almost no resistances other than an immunity to Grass thanks to Sap Sipper and leaves it weak to common Fighting-types and strong physical attackers that carry super effective coverage moves like Gurdurr, Primeape, Absol, and Aggron.

[SET]
name: Substitute + Swords Dance
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Swords Dance
move 3: Return
move 4: Earthquake
item: Leftovers
ability: Sap Sipper
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 156 SpD / 100 Spe

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

Substitute allows Bouffalant to set up Swords Dance on more passive Pokemon and avoid status moves that would cripple it such as Will-O-Wisp and Toxic. Earthquake hits Pokemon that are immune to or resist Bouffalant's Return, such as Jellicent, Regirock, and Aggron.

Set Details
========

252 HP and 156 Special Defense EVs prevent defensive Mesprit from breaking Bouffalant's Substitute with Psychic and allow it to take +1 Breakneck Blitz from Lilligant after Stealth Rock. The remaining 100 Speed EVs allow Bouffalant to outspeed uninvested Lanturn.

Usage Tips
========

Bouffalant should be kept healthy to check Pokemon like Lilligant and should aim to set up early-to early- to mid-game. Don't set up Swords Dance or Substitute if you need Bouffalant healthy to take on Lilligant. Bouffalant should be brought in safely if possible with a double switch or via VoltTurn because it often takes damage before it can set up or attack on its own due to its low Speed. Thanks to Sap Sipper, Bouffalant can switch in safely on Grass-type attacks from the likes of Lilligant and Victreebel to gain an Attack boost and force them out. Bouffalant can also use its good special bulk to pivot on weaker special attackers like Mesprit, Lanturn, and Oricorio-E, though it should be wary of switching into Scald from Lanturn, (AC) (keep comma remove comment) as it can be crippled with a burn. Bouffalant has an easier time at setting up on passive Pokemon such as Gastrodon, Clefairy, and Tangela and Choice-locked Pokemon such as Jellicent locked into Shadow Ball. On forced switches, Bouffalant can also set up either Swords Dance or Substitute. Without access to reliable recovery, Bouffalant can be chipped very easily and therefore should be wary of switching into too many attacks. Bouffalant should also avoid being statused, as it needs to be healthy in order to set up and pivot into special attackers.

Team Options
========

Bouffalant fits well on balanced and bulky offensive teams thanks to its ability to check Pokemon like Lilligant and break down defensive teams that rely on passive bulky foes like Regirock and Metang as Normal-type checks. Bouffalant appreciates entry hazard support to break through its checks (unbold the "s") more easily. Entry hazard setters such as Froslass, Qwilfish, and Mesprit pair well with Bouffalant, as they all serve as Fighting-type checks to Pokemon like Primeape, Gurdurr, and Hitmonchan. Mesprit also provides U-turn support, which is nice for getting Bouffalant onto the field safely, while Qwilfish can cripple foes with Thunder Wave for Bouffalant. In return, Bouffalant can check special attackers like Eelektross for the aforementioned Pokemon. Pokemon such as Mudsdale and Regirock are helpful, as they can handle powerful wallbreakers such as Aggron and Stoutland,(RC) while also setting up Stealth Rock and luring foes and crippling them with Toxic, chipping away at Pokemon such as Sableye and Oricorio-G that Bouffalant struggles against. Pokemon that can remove entry hazards such as Skuntank and Alolan Sandslash are good partners, since Bouffalant gets worn down quickly between entry hazards and Substitute damage. Skuntank can also absorb Toxic Spikes and Pursuit trap Ghost-type Pokemon such as Haunter and Oricorio-G (unbold the "o") for Bouffalant. Pokemon such as Lycanroc and Oricorio-E appreciate Bouffalant's ability to weaken bulky Pokemon like Regirock and have an easier time at sweeping and wallbreaking late-game. Lastly, U-turn and Volt Switch users such as Mesprit and Lanturn are also good partners for Bouffalant because they can bring it onto the field safely and allow it to set up more freely. Mesprit also provides Healing Wish support, giving a second life to Bouffalant and allowing it to get back up to full HP and threaten the opponent's team again. Lanturn can also remove status for Bouffalant if it gets crippled by Will-O-Wisp or Toxic in the match. Mesprit and Lanturn also lure in passive Pokemon like Clefairy for Bouffalant.

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

An Assault Vest set with Pursuit is an option for allowing Bouffalant to check and Pursuit trap special attackers like Oricorio-G, Lilligant, and Jynx, but this set comes with a notable lack of power and faces competition with from Stoutland and Kangaskhan. An alternative EV spread of 252 HP / 156 Atk / 100 Spe can be run to give Bouffalant more immediate power, but it prefers 156 EVs in Special Defense to check Lilligant better. While unorthodox, Cotton Guard boosts Bouffalant's Defense, allowing it to set up more easily on physical attackers such as Kangaskhan and Kabutops and act as a bulky wincon, but it has trouble fitting this into its moveset. Toxic can be run to cripple Ghost-type switch-ins such as Sabelye and Oricorio-G, but this it still misses out on Haunter, and Bouffalant has trouble dropping a move for it.

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

**Ghost-types**: Bouffalant is walled and forced out by Ghost-types such as Sableye, Haunter, and Oricorio-G due to its lack of strong coverage moves. Sableye can cripple it with Taunt and Will-O-Wisp, while Oricorio-G and Haunter can set up either Calm Mind or Substitute freely.

**Fighting-types**: Fighting-type Pokemon such as Primeape, Hitmonchan, and Gurdurr all threaten to OHKO Bouffalant. Primeape can gain momentum against it via U-turn, Hitmonchan can remove entry hazards via Rapid Spin on a forced switch, and Gurdurr can take advantage of it with Bulk Up, although the former two can not cannot switch into a Return.

**Strong Physical Attackers**: Physical attackers such as Aggron and Absol muscle through Bouffalant and force it out with their powerful STAB attacks with ease, though they risk heavy damage if Bouffalant is behind a Substitute.

**Residual Damage**: Without a reliable form of recovery, Bouffalant is prone to getting worn by Toxic from Pokemon like Alolan Sandslash. Bouffalant can also struggle to switch onto the field in and set up Substitute if entry hazards are on the field.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[TJ, 331538 ]]
- Quality checked by: [[Megazard, 202117], [tondas, 442732 ], [TONE, 213583]]
- Grammar checked by: [[The Dutch Plumberjack, 232216], [, ]]

GP 2/2

 

[TJ]

Ready for upload