RU Archeops

[blinkie]

Overview
########

Archeops has a great Speed tier and access to Stealth Rock, Taunt, and Endeavor, all of which make it a great suicide lead for hyper offense teams. It outspeeds most relevant Taunt and Defog users, which can prevent entry hazards from being set up, and can even use Taunt and Endeavor to deal with stall teams. However, while Archeops seems able to run other sets, they are all unviable due to its bad defensive typing, which gives it a Stealth Rock weakness. Archeops's greatest downfall is its ability, Defeatist, which makes it unable to switch into even weak hits for fear of halving its offenses.

Suicide Lead
########
name: Suicide Lead
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Taunt
move 3: Endeavor
move 4: Head Smash
ability: Defeatist
item: Focus Sash
evs: 252 Atk / 252 Spe
ivs: 0 SpD
nature: Naive

Moves
========

Archeops's ability to outspeed most Taunt and Defog users makes it easy for it to set Stealth Rock up. Taunt prevents opposing leads such as Cobalion from setting up entry hazards or boosting, and it denies Defog and status moves. Endeavor can cripple a foe once Archeops is knocked down to its Focus Sash, making it easy for a teammate to finish the foe off. Head Smash is used to block Rapid Spin and Defog when Archeops is down to its Focus Sash, as they fail when Archeops faints due to Head Smash's recoil; this also grants a teammate a free switch in. Rock Slide can be used over Head Smash, as it hits hard but doesn't break Archeops' Focus Sash; however, it cannot block Rapid Spin. Rock Tomb is also usable over Head Smash, as it slows down the foe, which can be useful against Choice Scarf users and can benefit a teammate.

Set Details
========

252 Attack EVs maximize Archeops's damage output, while 252 Speed EVs and a Naive nature maximize Archeops's Speed to outspeed threats such as Cobalion. A Naive nature and a 0 Special Defense IV make it easier to get to 1 HP, though 0 Defense and HP IVs are not recommended, as Archeops would forfeit its chance to survive Rhyperior's Rock Blast. A Focus Sash is necessary to allow Archeops to take a hit while it sets up Stealth Rock.

Usage Tips
========

Archeops should almost always be used as a lead to set up Stealth Rock early-game. Always Taunt opposing leads to prevent them from setting entry hazards, and use Stealth Rock afterwards. It's a good idea to Taunt setup sweepers too, especially those that boost their Speed. Use Endeavor on Defog users if Archeops is at 1 HP to cripple them, and then set up Stealth Rock again. Against Rapid Spin users, Archeops should spinblock by knocking itself out with Head Smash instead of using Endeavor. Saving Archeops for later in the match is possible if you think Stealth Rock might be removed or you want to cripple bulky Pokemon with Endeavor. If the opponent has a Xatu and you predict it to switch in, use Head Smash instead of Stealth Rock, as Stealth Rock will be bounced back by Magic Bounce. Don't try to Taunt priority move users, as they can KO Archeops before it sets up Stealth Rock.

Team Options
========

Most offensive Pokemon such as Tyrantrum, Fletchinder, and Houndoom appreciate Stealth Rock, as it allows them to KO Pokemon they otherwise would not be able to. Archeops can also prevent opposing leads from getting up Stealth Rock, which is helpful for Pokemon weak to it such as Houndoom, Mega Glalie, and Braviary. Wallbreakers, such as Exploud and Mega Glalie, which can break through bulky teams also make for good partners. A Rapid Spin user such as Hitmonlee can remove entry hazards from your side of the field without removing the Stealth Rock set up by Archeops. Braviary also makes for a great partner, as it deters Defog from being used with its ability Defiant. Priority move users such as Fletchinder and Doublade can be used to pick off Pokemon weakened by Endeavor. Finally, a spinblocker such as Doublade or Spiritomb is recommended to block Rapid Spin to prevent Stealth Rock from being removed.


Other Options
########

Knock Off can be used to remove items such as Eviolite from foes, but Archeops is better off crippling them with Endeavor. Quick Attack combined with Endeavor can finish off weakened Pokemon, but this likely will not work more than once in a match. Tailwind can be used as a last resort, but it is hard to find room for. U-turn can be used to allow Archeops to pivot out and switch in later in the game, but it is shut down by opposing Stealth Rock. A set with 3 attacks and Stealth Rock could possibly be used thanks to Archeops's high Speed but is worn down quickly by Stealth Rock and is not a reliable lead. A Defog set is somewhat viable, as it can potentially surprise an opponent while not losing any offensive presence.


Checks & Counters
########

**Multi-hit Attack Users**: Multi-hit attacks break through Focus Sash, rendering Archeops useless; Cincinno can shut down Archeops with Rock Blast, while Rhyperior can force mind games with Stealth Rock and Rock Blast.

**Xatu**: Xatu can switch into Archeops and bounce Stealth Rock back, but it is heavily damaged by Head Smash.

**Entry Hazard Removal**: After Archeops has fainted, Rapid Spin and Defog users, such as Hitmonlee and Shiftry, respectively, can remove Stealth Rock without much difficulty.

**Encore**: Encore users such as Whimsicott and Accelgor can cause Archeops to lose momentum if it does not Taunt them first.

 

[blinkie]

qc ready

 

[atomicllamas]

Looks generally pretty good.

I'd add Rock Slide and Rock Tomb as a mention in moves (not a slash but just mentioned as other options for its attack). While Head Smash is nice for blocking spin (you should have a ghost anyways), Rock Slide allows you to hit hard off the bat w/o sacrificing your sash, ie if someone leads w/ Houndoom, you can just Rock Slide right away. Rock Tomb functions like Icy Wind did on Froslass, and if they try to switch in their scarfer or something in on Archeops you can rock tomb --> SR ---> endeavor. Also slowing down their Pokemon gives you a lot more options w/ what you want to switch out to next. In team options mention that it does a p good job of keeping rocks of your side of the field thanks to a base 110 Speed and Taunt, which also helps Pokemon like Houndoom and Mega Glalie that don't like that SR exists.

Do this and QC Approved 1/3.

 

[col49]

yeah, okie dokes.

give strong oo mention to an all-out attacker and fast defog set in oo; i used the former a reasonable amount during the moltres meta (acro / aqua tail / heat wave / [sr / roost / other cool moves] @ itemless) and it was it rather solid performer, having a good speed tier, few exceedingly strong switch-ins and pretty good utility. less proficient in this meta, but still ok. fast defog b.c hazard removal is sparse and it still hits rather hard via uninvested acro.

2/3

 

[aVocado]

I'd like you to explain how head smash blocks rapid spin/defog (in all of usage tips, moves, and overview); right now it's not clear and many people might possibly be confused.

The overview is kinda really weirdly written imo .-. It really doesn't explain Archeops's role in the meta well, and just states reasons to use it and a couple of its cons. Do consider re-writing it or something.

QC approved 3/3 otherwise blinkie

 

[fleurdyleurse]

hi
why is naive nature used over jolly when there are no special moves on the set ?_?

check

Overview
########

Archeops has a great Speed tier and access to Stealth Rock, Taunt, and Endeavor, all of which make it a great suicide lead for hyper offense teams. It outspeeds almost all relevant Taunt and Defog users, which can prevent entry hazards on its side of the field. Head Smash is another helpful move that lets Archeops block Rapid Spin for a turn and brfrom being in a teammate for free, as it makes Archeops fainset up; it if it is at 1 HP due to the recoil. Archeops can even put in somedeal work againsth stall teams withusing Taunt and Endeavor. WHowever, while on paper, Archeops seems ablike it could run other sets, they are all unot as viable due to its bad defensive typing, which givinges it a Stealth Rock weakness. However, t; Archeops' biggreatest downside of Archeopsfall is its ability, Defeatist, which makeans that it cannotunable to switch in onto even weak hits for fear of activating it.

Suicide Lead
########
name: Suicide Lead
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Taunt
move 3: Endeavor
move 4: Head Smash
ability: Defeatist
item: Focus Sash
evs: 252 Atk / 252 Spe
nature: Naive

Moves
========

Stealth Rock is whatused as the makein move as the set, as Archeops' a good lead,bility to outspeed most Taunt and it iDefog users mandatorkes it easy for Archeopsit to set Stealth Rock up. Taunt prevents opposing leads such as Cobalion from setting up entry hazards, or using status moves, or Defog. Endeavor can cripple opposing Pokemona foe once Archeops is at 1 HP, making it easy for a teammate to finish them foe off. Head Smash is used to block Rapid Spin and Defog when Archeops is at 1 HP, as they will fail ifwhen Archeops is fainted, whiles; it can bring inalso grants a teammate fora free when Arswitcheops faints. Rock Slide is can optionbe used over Head Smash, as it still hits hard andbut doesn't break Archeops's Focus Sash,; however, it cannot block Rapid Spin. Rock Tomb is also viusable over Head Smash, as it slows down the foe, which can be useful against Choice Scarf users and gives Archeops more options for whatcan benefit a teammates can switch in next.

Set Details
========

252 Attack EVs make Head Smash as powerful as possibleximize Archeops's damage output, while 252 Speed EVs and a Naive nature maximize Archeops's Speed to outspeed threats such as Cobalion. A Focus Sash is mandatory sonecessary to allow Archeops canto take a hit while it sets up Stealth Rock.

Usage Tips
========

Archeops should almost always be used as a lead to gset up Stealth Rock quickearly-game. Always Taunt opposing leads with entry hazards to prevent them from gsetting set up, andup entry hazards; then, uset up your own Stealth Rock. It is a good idea to Taunt setup sweepers too, especially onesthose that boost their Speed. Use Endeavor on Defog users if Archeops is at 1 HP to cripple them, and then set up Stealth Rock again to cripple them. Against Rapid Spin users, Archeops should spinblock by using Head Smash, fainting itself, instead of using Endeavor. Saving Archeops for later in the match is possible if you think Stealth Rock mayight be removed or you want to cripple bulky Pokemon with Endeavor. If the opponent has an Xatu and you predict it to switch in, use Head Smash instead of Stealth Rock, or elseas Stealth Rock will be bounced back by Magic Bounce. Do non't try andto Taunt priority move users, as they can pick offKO Archeops before it gsets up Stealth Rock.

Team Options
========

Most offensive Pokemon such as Tyrantrum, Fletchinder, and Houndoom appreciate Stealth Rock provided by Archeops, as it helpallows them neto KO Pokemon they KOsotherwise would not be able to. Archeops can also prevent opposing leads from getting up Stealth Rock, which is helpful for Pokemon weak to it such as Houndoom, Mega Glalie, and Braviary. Wallbreakers, such as Exploud and Mega Glalie to, which can break through bulkiery teams can be helpful teammates as wellalso make for good partners. A Rapid Spin user such as Hitmonlee can remove entry hazards from your own sideside of the field without gettremoving rid ofthe Stealth Rock set up by Archeops. Braviary is a alsoalso makes for a great partner, as it deters Defog from being used with its ability, Defiant. Priority move users such as Fletchinder and Doublade can be used to pick off Pokemon weakened by Endeavor. Finally, a spinblocker such as Doublade or Spiritomb is recommended to block Rapid Spin from removingto prevent Stealth Rock from being removed.


Other Options
########

Knock Off can be used to remove opposing items such as Eviolite from its foes, but Archeops is better off crippling foesthem with Endeavor. Quick Attack combined with Endeavor can finish off weakened Pokemon, but likely will not work more than once in a match. Tailwind can be used as a last ditch suppresorting move, but it is hard to find room for. U-turn is can option if you wantbe used to allow Archeops to be able to pivot out and come backswitch in later in the game, but it can beis shut down with opposing Stealth Rock. A Three Aset with 3 attacks +and Stealth Rock set iscould possibly be dused thanks to Archeops solid s' high Speed tier, but is worn down quickly by Stealth Rock and is not a reliable lead. A Defog set is somewhat viable, as it can act aspotentially surprise entry hazard removeran opponent while also not losing out on itsany offensive presence.


Checks & Counters
########

**Multi-hit Attack users**: Multi-hit attacks break through Focus Sash, rendering Archeops useless; Cinccinno can shut down Archeops with a faster Rock Blast, while Rhyperior can force a 50/50mind games with Stealth Rock and Rock Blast.

**Xatu**: Archeops needs to be careful of Xatu that can comeswitch into Archeops and bounce Stealth Rock back with Magic Bounce, but it can dealis heavily damage withd by Head Smash.

**Entry Hazard Removal**: After Archeops has fainted, Rapid Spin and Defog users, such as Hitmonlee and Defog users such as Shiftry, respectively, can remove Stealth Rock without much difficulty.

**Encore**: Encore fromusers such as Whimsicott and Accelgor can cause tArcheops to loss ofe momentum if Archeopsit does not Taunt them first.

GP 1/2

 

[blinkie]

hi
why is naive nature used over jolly when there are no special moves on the set ?_?

check

Overview
########

Archeops has a great Speed tier and access to Stealth Rock, Taunt, and Endeavor, all of which make it a great suicide lead for hyper offense teams. It outspeeds almost all relevant Taunt and Defog users, which can prevent entry hazards on its side of the field. Head Smash is another helpful move that lets Archeops block Rapid Spin for a turn and brfrom being in a teammate for free, as it makes Archeops fainset up; it if it is at 1 HP due to the recoil. Archeops can even put in somedeal work againsth stall teams withusing Taunt and Endeavor. WHowever, while on paper, Archeops seems ablike it could run other sets, they are all unot as viable due to its bad defensive typing, which givinges it a Stealth Rock weakness. However, t; Archeops' biggreatest downside of Archeopsfall is its ability, Defeatist, which makeans that it cannotunable to switch in onto even weak hits for fear of activating it.

Suicide Lead
########
name: Suicide Lead
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Taunt
move 3: Endeavor
move 4: Head Smash
ability: Defeatist
item: Focus Sash
evs: 252 Atk / 252 Spe
nature: Naive

Moves
========

Stealth Rock is whatused as the makein move as the set, as Archeops' a good lead,bility to outspeed most Taunt and it iDefog users mandatorkes it easy for Archeopsit to set Stealth Rock up. Taunt prevents opposing leads such as Cobalion from setting up entry hazards, or using status moves, or Defog. Endeavor can cripple opposing Pokemona foe once Archeops is at 1 HP, making it easy for a teammate to finish them foe off. Head Smash is used to block Rapid Spin and Defog when Archeops is at 1 HP, as they will fail ifwhen Archeops is fainted, whiles; it can bring inalso grants a teammate fora free when Arswitcheops faints. Rock Slide is can optionbe used over Head Smash, as it still hits hard andbut doesn't break Archeops's Focus Sash,; however, it cannot block Rapid Spin. Rock Tomb is also viusable over Head Smash, as it slows down the foe, which can be useful against Choice Scarf users and gives Archeops more options for whatcan benefit a teammates can switch in next.

Set Details
========

252 Attack EVs make Head Smash as powerful as possibleximize Archeops's damage output, while 252 Speed EVs and a Naive nature maximize Archeops's Speed to outspeed threats such as Cobalion. A Focus Sash is mandatory sonecessary to allow Archeops canto take a hit while it sets up Stealth Rock.

Usage Tips
========

Archeops should almost always be used as a lead to gset up Stealth Rock quickearly-game. Always Taunt opposing leads with entry hazards to prevent them from gsetting set up, andup entry hazards; then, uset up your own Stealth Rock. It is a good idea to Taunt setup sweepers too, especially onesthose that boost their Speed. Use Endeavor on Defog users if Archeops is at 1 HP to cripple them, and then set up Stealth Rock again to cripple them. Against Rapid Spin users, Archeops should spinblock by using Head Smash, fainting itself, instead of using Endeavor. Saving Archeops for later in the match is possible if you think Stealth Rock mayight be removed or you want to cripple bulky Pokemon with Endeavor. If the opponent has an Xatu and you predict it to switch in, use Head Smash instead of Stealth Rock, or elseas Stealth Rock will be bounced back by Magic Bounce. Do non't try andto Taunt priority move users, as they can pick offKO Archeops before it gsets up Stealth Rock.

Team Options
========

Most offensive Pokemon such as Tyrantrum, Fletchinder, and Houndoom appreciate Stealth Rock provided by Archeops, as it helpallows them neto KO Pokemon they KOsotherwise would not be able to. Archeops can also prevent opposing leads from getting up Stealth Rock, which is helpful for Pokemon weak to it such as Houndoom, Mega Glalie, and Braviary. Wallbreakers, such as Exploud and Mega Glalie to, which can break through bulkiery teams can be helpful teammates as wellalso make for good partners. A Rapid Spin user such as Hitmonlee can remove entry hazards from your own sideside of the field without gettremoving rid ofthe Stealth Rock set up by Archeops. Braviary is a alsoalso makes for a great partner, as it deters Defog from being used with its ability, Defiant. Priority move users such as Fletchinder and Doublade can be used to pick off Pokemon weakened by Endeavor. Finally, a spinblocker such as Doublade or Spiritomb is recommended to block Rapid Spin from removingto prevent Stealth Rock from being removed.


Other Options
########

Knock Off can be used to remove opposing items such as Eviolite from its foes, but Archeops is better off crippling foesthem with Endeavor. Quick Attack combined with Endeavor can finish off weakened Pokemon, but likely will not work more than once in a match. Tailwind can be used as a last ditch suppresorting move, but it is hard to find room for. U-turn is can option if you wantbe used to allow Archeops to be able to pivot out and come backswitch in later in the game, but it can beis shut down with opposing Stealth Rock. A Three Aset with 3 attacks +and Stealth Rock set iscould possibly be dused thanks to Archeops solid s' high Speed tier, but is worn down quickly by Stealth Rock and is not a reliable lead. A Defog set is somewhat viable, as it can act aspotentially surprise entry hazard removeran opponent while also not losing out on itsany offensive presence.


Checks & Counters
########

**Multi-hit Attack users**: Multi-hit attacks break through Focus Sash, rendering Archeops useless; Cinccinno can shut down Archeops with a faster Rock Blast, while Rhyperior can force a 50/50mind games with Stealth Rock and Rock Blast.

**Xatu**: Archeops needs to be careful of Xatu that can comeswitch into Archeops and bounce Stealth Rock back with Magic Bounce, but it can dealis heavily damage withd by Head Smash.

**Entry Hazard Removal**: After Archeops has fainted, Rapid Spin and Defog users, such as Hitmonlee and Defog users such as Shiftry, respectively, can remove Stealth Rock without much difficulty.

**Encore**: Encore fromusers such as Whimsicott and Accelgor can cause tArcheops to loss ofe momentum if Archeopsit does not Taunt them first.

GP 1/2

It makes it easier to go down to 1 HP, but yeah it doesn't matter that much tbh.

 

[fleurdyleurse]

then it's best to explain in the analysis why exactly naive is used to prevent confusion @_@

 

[g]

I am fine with you running Naive but at least mention that you should run 0 Special Defense IVs as well. However, you shouldn't run 0 Defense IVs as you have a decent shot at surviving 2 hit Rock Blast from Rhyperior so that you dont auto lose to it o.o

 

[blinkie]

Ok fixed

 

[g]

Ok fixed

The IV thing is to be mentioned on the set format too iirc like
IVs: 0 HP / 0 SpD
Or something

 

[blinkie]

The IV thing is to be mentioned on the set format too iirc like
IVs: 0 HP / 0 SpD
Or something

Ok fixed

 

[tehy]

Get chekt

Here's my main beef:what do you do about multi-hit Pokemon? Your Usage Tips doesn't mention them at all, and ideally you'd have teammates that can counterlead them. When you consider they all either outspeed Archeops or potentially carry Stealth Rock, you have a serious decision to make ; if they lead off against your Archeops, do you Taunt the Stealth Rock or Stealth Rock yourself to prevent getting Rock Blasted? Should you even lead with it at all??? This is stuff that UT should cover.

Also, crustle in checks and counters is super notable, multiple hazards stack mean you want to taunt, but strong rock blast means you don't too.

Edit:

At llamas: i recall calcing it earlier and you do

comments

I explained what defeatist actually does; it's not actually necessary, but it sounds a lot better than the vagueness of 'activating it'

I prefer 'knocked down to its focus sash' instead of 1 hp ; 1 HP is kinda weird in the sense of, what are you doing at 1 hp? I find that just saying 'down to focus sash' is a lot clearer of a way to explain what the value of Endeavor or Head Smash is, instead of making people make the connection themselves (which may not always happen)

same for head smash's recoil

amcheck

Overview
########

Archeops has a great Speed tier and access to Stealth Rock, Taunt, and Endeavor, all of which make it a great suicide lead for hyper offense teams. It outspeeds most relevant Taunt and Defog users, which can prevent entry hazards from being set up;,(semicolon to comma) it and can even use Taunt and Endeavor to deal with stall teams using Taunt and Endeavor. However, while Archeops seems able to run other sets, they are all unviable due to its bad defensive typing, which gives it a Stealth Rock weakness; Archeoeps' greatest downfall is its ability, Defeatist, which makes it unable to switch into even weak hits for fear of halving its offenses activating it.

Suicide Lead
########
name: Suicide Lead
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Taunt
move 3: Endeavor
move 4: Head Smash
ability: Defeatist
item: Focus Sash
evs: 252 Atk / 252 Spe
nature: Naive

Moves
========

Stealth Rock is used as the main move in the set,(rc) as Archeops' ability to outspeed most Taunt and Defog users makes it easy for it to set Stealth Rock up. Taunt prevents opposing leads such as Cobalion from setting up entry hazards or using boosting,(ac) and denies Defog and status moves or Defog. Endeavor can cripple a foe once Archeops is aknocked down to 1its HPFocus Sash, making it easy for a teammate to finish the foe off. Head Smash is used to block Rapid Spin and Defog when Archeops is at 1 HP down to its Focus Sash, as they fail when Archeops faints; due to Head Smash's recoil; this it also grants a teammate a free switch in. Rock Slide can be used over Head Smash, as it hits hard but doesn't break Archeops' Focus Sash; however, it cannot block Rapid Spin. Rock Tomb is also usable over Head Smash, as it slows down the foe, which can be useful against Choice Scarf users and can benefit a teammate.

Set Details
========

252 Attack EVs maximize Archeops's damage output, while 252 Speed EVs and a Naive nature maximize Archeops's Speed to outspeed threats such as Cobalion. The A Naive nature and a 0 HP and Special Defense IVs make it easier to get to 1 HP, though a however,(rc) 0 Defense IVs are is not recommended, as Archeops has a would forfeit its chance to survive Rhyperior's Rock Blast otherwise. A Focus Sash is necessary to allow Archeops to take a hit while it sets up Stealth Rock.

Usage Tips
========

Archeops should almost always be used as a lead to set up Stealth Rock early-game. Always Taunt opposing leads to prevent them from setting entry hazards;,(semicolon to period) then,(rc) and use Stealth Rock afterwards.It is It's a good idea to Taunt setup sweepers too, especially those that boost their Speed. Use Endeavor on Defog users if Archeops is at 1 HP to cripple them, and then set up Stealth Rock again. Against Rapid Spin users, Archeops should spinblock by using Head Smash,(rc) fainting itself,(rc) with Head Smash instead of using Endeavor. Saving Archeops for later in the match is possible if you think Stealth Rock might be removed or you want to cripple bulky Pokemon with Endeavor. If the opponent has a Xatu and you predict it to switch in, use Head Smash instead of Stealth Rock, as Stealth Rock will be bounced back by Magic Bounce. Don't try to Taunt priority move users, as they can KO Archeops before it sets up Stealth Rock.

Team Options
========

Most offensive Pokemon such as Tyrantrum, Fletchinder, and Houndoom appreciate Stealth Rock, as it allows them to KO Pokemon they otherwise would not be able to. Archeops can also prevent opposing leads from getting up Stealth Rock, which is helpful for Pokemon weak to it such as Houndoom, Mega Glalie, and Braviary. Wallbreakers, such as Exploud and Mega Glalie, which can break through bulky teams, also make for good partners. A Rapid Spin user such as Hitmonlee can remove entry hazards from your side of the field without removing the Stealth Rock set up by Archeops. Braviary also makes for a great partner, as it deters Defog from being used with its ability,(rc) Defiant. Priority move users such as Fletchinder and Doublade can be used to pick off Pokemon weakened by Endeavor. Finally, a spinblocker such as Doublade or Spiritomb is recommended to block Rapid Spin to prevent Stealth Rock from being removed.


Other Options
########

Knock Off can be used to remove items such as Eviolite from its foes, but Archeops is better off crippling them with Endeavor. Quick Attack combined with Endeavor can finish off weakened Pokemon, but likely will not work more than once in a match. Tailwind can be used as a last resort, but it is hard to find room for. U-turn can be used to allow Archeops to pivot out and switch in later in the game, but it is shut down with opposing Stealth Rock. A set with 3 attacks and Stealth Rock could possibly be used thanks to Archeops' high Speed, but is worn down quickly by Stealth Rock and is not a reliable lead. A Defog set is somewhat viable, as it can potentially surprise an opponent while not losing any offensive presence.


Checks & Counters
########

**Multi-hit Attack uUsers**: Multi-hit attacks break through Focus Sash, rendering Archeops useless; Cinccinno can shut down Archeops with Rock Blast, while Rhyperior can force mind games with Stealth Rock and Rock Blast.

**Xatu**: Xatu can switch into Archeops and bounce Stealth Rock back with Magic Bounce, but it is heavily damaged by Head Smash.

**Entry Hazard Removal**: After Archeops has fainted, Rapid Spin and Defog users, such as Hitmonlee and Shiftry, respectively, can remove Stealth Rock without much difficulty.

**Encore**: Encore users such as Whimsicott and Accelgor can cause Archeops to lose momentum if it does not Taunt them first.

 

[atomicllamas]

Don't run 0 hp ivs, you need 31 for the chance to avoid rock blast 2hko (not sure, can't check, on phone).

 

[blinkie]

Ok implemented tehy's check

 

[g]

Yeah exactly i am stupid

 

[P Squared]

GP 2/2
add remove comment

favorite rock-type

Overview
########

Archeops has a great Speed tier and access to Stealth Rock, Taunt, and Endeavor, all of which make it a great suicide lead for hyper offense teams. It outspeeds most relevant Taunt and Defog users, which can prevent entry hazards from being set up, and can even use Taunt and Endeavor to deal with stall teams. However, while Archeops seems able to run other sets, they are all unviable due to its bad defensive typing, which gives it a Stealth Rock weakness;. (period) Archeops's greatest downfall is its ability, Defeatist, which makes it unable to switch into even weak hits for fear of halving its offenses.

Suicide Lead
########
name: Suicide Lead
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Taunt
move 3: Endeavor
move 4: Head Smash
ability: Defeatist
item: Focus Sash
evs: 252 Atk / 252 Spe
ivs: 0 SpD
nature: Naive

Moves
========

Archeops's ability to outspeed most Taunt and Defog users makes it easy for it to set Stealth Rock up. Taunt prevents opposing leads such as Cobalion from setting up entry hazards or boosting, and it denies Defog and status moves. Endeavor can cripple a foe once Archeops is knocked down to its Focus Sash, making it easy for a teammate to finish the foe off. Head Smash is used to block Rapid Spin and Defog when Archeops is down to its Focus Sash, as they fail when Archeops faints due to Head Smash's recoil; this also grants a teammate a free switch in. Rock Slide can be used over Head Smash, as it hits hard but doesn't break Archeops' Focus Sash; however, it cannot block Rapid Spin. Rock Tomb is also usable over Head Smash, as it slows down the foe, which can be useful against Choice Scarf users and can benefit a teammate.

Set Details
========

252 Attack EVs maximize Archeops's damage output, while 252 Speed EVs and a Naive nature maximize Archeops's Speed to outspeed threats such as Cobalion. A Naive nature and a 0 Special Defense IV make it easier to get to 1 HP, though a 0 Defense and HP IVs are is not recommended, as Archeops would forfeit its chance to survive Rhyperior's Rock Blast. A Focus Sash is necessary to allow Archeops to take a hit while it sets up Stealth Rock.

Usage Tips
========

Archeops should almost always be used as a lead to set up Stealth Rock early-game. Always Taunt opposing leads to prevent them from setting entry hazards, and use Stealth Rock afterwards. It's a good idea to Taunt setup sweepers too, especially those that boost their Speed. Use Endeavor on Defog users if Archeops is at 1 HP to cripple them, and then set up Stealth Rock again. Against Rapid Spin users, Archeops should spinblock by fainting knocking itself out with Head Smash instead of using Endeavor. Saving Archeops for later in the match is possible if you think Stealth Rock might be removed or you want to cripple bulky Pokemon with Endeavor. If the opponent has a Xatu and you predict it to switch in, use Head Smash instead of Stealth Rock, as Stealth Rock will be bounced back by Magic Bounce. Don't try to Taunt priority move users, as they can KO Archeops before it sets up Stealth Rock.

Team Options
========

Most offensive Pokemon such as Tyrantrum, Fletchinder, and Houndoom appreciate Stealth Rock, as it allows them to KO Pokemon they otherwise would not be able to. Archeops can also prevent opposing leads from getting up Stealth Rock, which is helpful for Pokemon weak to it such as Houndoom, Mega Glalie, and Braviary. Wallbreakers, such as Exploud and Mega Glalie, which can break through bulky teams also make for good partners. A Rapid Spin user such as Hitmonlee can remove entry hazards from your side of the field without removing the Stealth Rock set up by Archeops. Braviary also makes for a great partner, as it deters Defog from being used with its ability Defiant. Priority move users such as Fletchinder and Doublade can be used to pick off Pokemon weakened by Endeavor. Finally, a spinblocker such as Doublade or Spiritomb is recommended to block Rapid Spin to prevent Stealth Rock from being removed.

Other Options
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Knock Off can be used to remove(space)items such as Eviolite from its foes, but Archeops is better off crippling them with Endeavor. Quick Attack combined with Endeavor can finish off weakened Pokemon, but this likely will not work more than once in a match. Tailwind can be used as a last resort, but it is hard to find room for. U-turn can be used to allow Archeops to pivot out and switch in later in the game, but it is shut down by with opposing Stealth Rock. A set with 3 attacks and Stealth Rock could possibly be used thanks to Archeops's high Speed but is worn down quickly by Stealth Rock and is not a reliable lead. A Defog set is somewhat viable, as it can potentially surprise an opponent while not losing any offensive presence.

Checks & Counters
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**Multi-hit Attack Users**: Multi-hit attacks break through Focus Sash, rendering Archeops useless; Cinccino can shut down Archeops with Rock Blast, while Rhyperior can force mind games with Stealth Rock and Rock Blast.

**Xatu**: Xatu can switch into Archeops and bounce Stealth Rock back with Magic Bounce (up to you, but "bounce x back with Magic Bounce" sounds kinda silly to me, and I figure most people know Xatu has Magic Bounce), but it is heavily damaged by Head Smash.

**Entry Hazard Removal**: After Archeops has fainted, Rapid Spin and Defog users, such as Hitmonlee and Shiftry, respectively, can remove Stealth Rock without much difficulty.

**Encore**: Encore users such as Whimsicott and Accelgor can cause Archeops to lose momentum if it does not Taunt them first.

 

[Molk]

alrighty, this has been uploaded!