UU Azelf [QC 3/3] [GP 2/2]


Overview
########

  • Has great physical and special movepool
  • High offenses and speed
  • One of the best suicide leads in the tier
  • Low defenses
  • Weak to common offensive types and Knock Off spam
Suicide Lead
########
name: Suicide Lead
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Taunt
move 3: Flamethrower / Knock Off
move 4: Explosion
ability: Levitate
item: Focus Sash
evs: 252 Atk / 252 Spe / 4 HP
nature: Naive / Jolly

Moves
========
  • Knock Off provides utility early-game
  • Flamethrower is for Steel types, particularly Forretress
  • Taunt prevents other mons from setting up
  • Stealth Rock is Stealth Rock
  • Explosion is to inflict heavy damage on the opposing side, and to prevent spinners from clearing hazards
Set Details
========
  • EVs are to maximize speed and damage, Naive nature is used if you're running Flamethrower
  • Focus Sash is so it can get off at least 2 of its moves before dying

Usage Tips
========
Azelf should almost always be coming out turn 1, unless it is being threatened by Fake Out leads or common scarfers, in which case it should still be in early-game. The plan is to either Knock Off or set up rocks, depending on what is on the opposing side. Taunt can be used turn 1 if other suicide leads, mainly Smeargle or Galvantula are being sent out. After it has taken a hit and got up either of these moves, Explosion should be used unless there is a ghost on the field, in which case you should be using Knock Off on the switch. This can remove at least one mon, possibly even two, and make it easier for things such as Hydreigon or Heracross to break through teams. An important note is that this set should not lead against fast taunters, such as Sableye, and Fake Out users, such as Ambipom.

Team Options
========
  • Common Scarfers such as Hydreigon, Flygon, and Mienshao, who appreciate Stealth Rock support
  • Mega Houndoom, who can set up on ghost types who try to switch into Azelf
  • Fighting-types, such as Heracross, who can punish dark-types, and are generally good at wallbreaking.


Nasty Plot
########
name: Nasty Plot
move 1: Nasty Plot
move 2: Psyshock
move 3: Fire Blast / Thunderbolt / Shadow Ball
move 4: Dazzling Gleam
ability: Levitate
item: Life Orb
evs: 252 SpA / 252 Spe / 4 SpD
nature: Timid

Moves
========
  • Nasty Plot is Azelf's set-up option
  • Psyshock is the STAB move of choice
  • Fire Blast or Flamethrower lets Azelf hit steel-types such as Bronzong and Forretress.
  • Thunderbolt is for muscling past bulky waters that aren't part ground.
  • Dazzling Gleam lets it get past dark-types such as Sableye and Hydreigon
  • Shadow Ball lets it hit Mew and Victini, who are common switch-ins for the set
Set Details
========
  • EVs are so that it can maximize overall damage and speed
  • Life Orb is to increase the damage output. The recoil doesn't matter, as Azelf folds at most strong attacks.
Usage Tips
========
This set makes for a great sweeper, due to Azelf's blazing fast speed and good offenses. Depending on your coverage move in the last slot, Azelf appreciates bulky waters from other team members removed if using Dazzling Gleam, and dark-types such as Hydrei and Honch removed if using Thunderbolt. As such, it shouldn't be attempting a sweep until these mons are removed.

Team Options
========
  • Mons such as Froslass and Forretress, who can set up hazards which make it easier for Azelf to sweep
  • Fighting-types such as Mienshao and Heracross who can take care of dark-types Krookodile and Umbreon
  • Thunder Wave support from mons such as Slowbro or Mew can be effective for its sweep
  • Pokemon that benefit from special walls broken, such as Roserade and Mega Manectric
  • Mons that can beat Mew with ease, such as Mega Houndoom and Hydreigon



Dual Screens
#########
name: Dual Screens
move 1: Light Screen
move 2: Reflect
move 3: Taunt / Stealth Rock / Knock Off
move 4: Explosion
ability: Levitate
item: Light Clay
evs: 252 Atk / 252 Spe / 4 HP
nature: Jolly

Moves
========
  • The first two moveslots are to set up screens, obviously.
  • The third moveslot can be either used to further support your team with rocks, cripple a good portion of the tier with Knock Off, or prevent other set up with Taunt
  • Explosion is so that it can safely get in an offensive mon while dealing some damage.

Set Details
========
  • The EVs are supposed to increase offenses and speed, letting it get off at least one of the screens and explode.
  • Light Clay is used to maximize the duration of screens, so that offensive mons can safely switch in after Explosion and rip through teams.
  • Jolly nature is used so that it outspeeds common mons while doing as much damage as possible with Explosion.

Usage Tips
=========
This set is best used on Hyper Offense, as it lets mons such as Porygon-Z and Mega Houndoom set up and begin their sweeps, and gives them a chance to set up without having to worry about being demolished by powerful hits. As soon as both screens are set up, Azelf should explode to deal a good chunk of damage to unresisted mons, and lets it get a safe switch into a wallbreaker or sweeper. If ghosts are on the field, however, it should use Knock Off instead of exploding, providing it has it, so it can set up screens later if needed.

Team Options
========
  • Offensive mons who enjoy screen support and can set up, mainly Mega Houndoom and Porygon-Z
  • Electric types, such as Raikou or Mega Manectric, who can take care of Crobat, which is a big threat to this set.



Other Options
########

  • Choiced sets, which aren't as viable since Azelf hates being locked into one move. However, Scarf can outspeed every other common scarfer in the tier, with access to trick, and makes a decent late-game cleaner. Specs and Band provide raw power.
  • Substitute, which is good for Nasty Plot since it forces a fair amount of switches, however, it has bad defenses and will break at any mildly powerful hit.
  • Grass Knot can be used to kill bulky waters who are immune to Thunderbolt, mainly Swampert.
  • A mixed set is viable, due to how Azelf has an expansive movepool and 125 in both offenses.
  • Expert Belt can be coupled with its large movepool to deal lots of damage while bluffing a choiced set, or sash.


Checks & Counters
########
  • Dark-types, such as Houndoom, Hydreigon, and Mega Absol can all revenge Azelf fairly easily while having a Psyshock immunity
  • Porygon2, who can take most hits with ease, however it must be wary of Knock Off
  • Speed Boosters, such as Yanmega and Sharpedo, can Protect to gain a speed boost and revenge with a STAB SE hit.
  • Sableye and Mega Aerodactyl stop the Suicide Lead and Dual Screen sets, as they have fast taunts, are immune/resistant to Explosion, and can easily kill Azelf

Overview
########

Azelf is regarded as one of the best suicide leads in the tier, due to its massive offensive and supportive options, great offensive stats. Azelf even has a good boosting move in Nasty Plot, letting it function as a powerful special sweeper. However, it is easy for Azelf to do its job, and it provides good results when used right. However, Azelf is not without its faults; its poor defenses and bad defensive typing make it fold to nearly any attack and also leave it vulnerable to the powerful Dark-types in the tier, such as Hydreigon and Mega Houndoom. It also faces competition from Aerodactyl as a suicide lead. Overall, Azelf is a threat that should not be overlooked in the metagame.

Suicide Lead
########
name: Suicide Lead
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Taunt
move 3: Flamethrower / Knock Off
move 4: Explosion
ability: Levitate
item: Focus Sash
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
nature: Naive / Jolly

Moves
========
Stealth Rock is the primary purpose of this set, letting Pokemon such as Roserade or Mega Manectric achieve the OHKOs or 2HKOs needed to clean and provide offensive pressure. Taunt prevents slower leads such as Donphan from setting up Stealth Rock, and deters Smeargle and Galvantula from using Spore or setting up Sticky Web, respectively. Knock Off provides utility early game and can cripple a good portion of the metagame. Flamethrower is used specifically for Forretress, who can otherwise cause problems for this set. Explosion is for after Azelf has done its job and allows a safe switch into an offensive Pokemon to put pressure on the opposing side, as well as stopping spinners or defoggers from removing entry hazards.

Set Details
========
The given EVs maximize Azelf's Speed while letting it do as much damage as possible with Knock Off and Explosion. Focus Sash is used to guarantee that Azelf can set up Stealth Rock, and then use Explosion. Azelf can also use Knock Off before it uses Explosion if it's necessary. A Naive nature can be used if running Flamethrower.

Usage Tips
========

Azelf should almost always used as a lead, unless it is threatened by Fake Out leads or common scarfers, but even then it should still be used early-game. The first move should be to either use Knock Off or set up Stealth Rock, depending on what is on the opponent is leading with. Taunt can be used if other suicide leads like Smeargle or Galvantula are sent out. After Azelf has taken a hit and used either of these moves, Explosion should be used unless a Ghost-type is on the field, in which case you should use Knock Off. This can remove at least one Pokemon, and make it easier for Pokemon like Hydreigon or Heracross to break through teams. It is important to note that this set should not lead against fast Taunters such as Sableye, or Fake Out users such as Ambipom.


Team Options
========

This set should be used on hyper offense teams with common Choice Scarf users like Hydreigon, who barely miss the OHKO on Pokemon with decent physical or special bulk such as Mega Houndoom without Stealth Rock, and with Pokemon that can provide offensive pressure. Mega Houndoom can KO or revenge kill Ghost-types who try to switch in on Azelf as it uses Explosion. Finally, offensive Fighting-types that have a high speed stat such as Heracross and Mienshao are good partners due to their great wallbreaking capabilities.

Dual Screens
#########
name: Dual Screens
move 1: Light Screen
move 2: Reflect
move 3: Taunt / Stealth Rock / Knock Off
move 4: Explosion
ability: Levitate
item: Light Clay
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
nature: Jolly

Moves
========
Light Screen and Reflect are obvious, as Azelf's blazing speed lets it set up both screens quickly. The third moveslot has many options: Taunt lets it cripple other set-up Pokemon, Stealth Rock lets it support the team, and Knock Off provides utility. Explosion deals lots of damage while ensuring a safe switch in and avoiding a potential Defog.

Set Details
========
The EVs are standard, maximizing Attack and Speed in order to get the job done. Light Clay maximizes the amount of turns the screens stay up.

Usage Tips
========
Depending on which Pokemon you're facing, you should set up the appropriate screen to take less damage from their attacks. As soon as both screens are up, Azelf should use Explosion to deal a good chunk of damage to most Pokemon, and allows a safe switch into a wallbreaker or sweeper. If Ghost-types are on the field, however, Azelf should use Knock Off instead of Explosion, so it can set up screens later if needed.

Team Options
========
Dual Screens support is best used with Pokemon who enjoy an easier time setting up, such as Mega Houndoom, Porygon-Z, and Mega Absol, since most setup sweepers don't need more than five turns to start preparing for a sweep. Electric types such as Mega Manectric and Raikou are good for taking care of Crobat and Mega Aerodactyl, who both check this set, with the Infiltrator ability and a higher Speed stat, respectively.

Nasty Plot
########
name: Nasty Plot
move 1: Nasty Plot
move 2: Psyshock
move 3: Fire Blast / Thunderbolt / Shadow Ball
move 4: Dazzling Gleam
ability: Levitate
item: Life Orb
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
nature: Timid

Moves
========
Nasty Plot boosts Azelf's Special Attack to towering levels, making it very dangerous when coupled with its high speed. Psyshock is the STAB move of choice, having decent coverage and hitting Florges for massive damage. Fire Blast hits Steel-types such as Mega Aggron and Forretress for massive damage. Thunderbolt lets it muscle through bulky Water-types that aren't part Ground-type. Shadow Ball is for Victini, a common switch-in to Azelf. Dazzling Gleam prevents it from getting completely walled by Dark-types like Mega Houndoom and Hydreigon.

Set Details
========
The EVs and Timid nature let it outspeed as many threats as it can while doing as much damage as possible. Life Orb maximizes the damage output.

Usage Tips
========
Depending on the coverage move in the last slot, Azelf appreciates having bulky Steel-types removed if using Thunderbolt, and Water-types such as Vaporeon and Slowbro removed if using Fire Blast. As such, it shouldn't attempt a sweep until these Pokemon are removed. Azelf should also be setting up when common Choice Scarf users are removed.

Team Options
========
Nasty Plot Azelf enjoys entry hazard support from hazard setters such as Froslass and Forretress, which help get it past Pokemon with Focus Sashes. Fighting-types such as Mienshao and Heracross also make good partners for Azelf as they take care of Dark-types such as Krookodile and Umbreon. Paralysis support is also beneficial for Azelf, letting it outspeed most scarfers trying to revenge kill, so Slowbro and Mew make for good partners. Azelf also appreciates Pokemon that can break through Mew, such as Nidoking with Megahorn. Azelf should also be paired with Pokemon that want special walls out of the way, like Mega Houndoom and Hydreigon.


Other Options
########
Choice sets are an option, although they aren't as viable since Azelf hates being locked into one move. For instance, a Choice Scarf lets it outspeed every other common user of Choice Scarf in the tier and makes a decent late-game cleaner, whereas Choice Specs and Choice Band provide raw power. Substitute can be used on the Nasty Plot set since Azelf forces a lot of switches; however, it is forced to give up a coverage move for this. Grass Knot can be used to KO bulky waters that are part Ground-type, such as Swampert. A mixed set is viable, thanks to Azelf's expansive movepool and equally strong mixed offenses. Expert Belt can be used with this to bluff a Focus Sash, Light Clay, or Choice item.

Checks and Counters
########
**Dark-types** The biggest stops to Azelf are Dark-types, such as Mega Houndoom, Hydreigon, and Mega Absol, who can put the hit it for super effective damage with their STAB moves.

**Porygon2** Porygon2 can take most hits with ease; however, it must be wary of getting its Eviolite knocked off.

**Fast Taunt users** Fast users of Taunt, in particular Sableye and Mega Aerodactyl, stop the suicide and dual screen sets in their tracks as Azelf can't reliably damage them, and both are immune or resistant to Explosion.
 
Last edited:

panamaxis

how many seconds in eternity?
is a Forum Moderator Alumnusis a Tiering Contributor Alumnusis a Contributor Alumnusis a Battle Simulator Moderator Alumnusis a Two-Time Past SPL Championis a Three-Time Past WCoP Champion
really minor but i'd probably slash shadow ball before tbolt on NP, since if you lack fireblast this is getting past bronzong / jirachi as well as the psychics ala mew/victini. Whereas tbolt probably has slightly less overall utility.

3/3
 
Last edited:
really minor but i'd probably slash shadow ball before tbolt on NP, since if you lack fireblast this is getting past bronzong / jirachi as well as the psychics ala mew/victini. Whereas tbolt probably has slightly less overall utility.

3/3
You have to wait until this analysis is written to give it the third QC check.
 
Do you guys think a choice band could be viable it can surprise the opponent and you could run like u-turn zen headbutt knock off and maybe explosion or one of the elemental punches for coverage
 
Does anyone have any experience with all-out attacking Special Azelf? I ask because last gen people that used it a lot thought that it was better than NP simply because it's too frail to set up, so it might be worth renaming the set and slashing a coverage move next to NP...
 

horyzhnz

[10:02:17 AM] flcl: its hory xD
is a Top Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Media Contributor Alumnus
Does anyone have any experience with all-out attacking Special Azelf? I ask because last gen people that used it a lot thought that it was better than NP simply because it's too frail to set up, so it might be worth renaming the set and slashing a coverage move next to NP...
Yeah, I reckon it's too frail to set up.
I used LO with Psyshock, Shadow Ball, Fire Blast, and Tbolt. Azelf's got a huge movepool, which means you can use moves like Dazzling Gleam or Energy Ball to nab a surprise KO on something.
 

TheManlyLadybug

Banned deucer.
I have used a mixed attacking Azelf with solid results, I think it deserves a set

Mixed Attacker
###########
name: Mixed Attacker
move 1: Psyshock / Psychic
move 2: Fire Blast
move 3: Knock Off
move 4: U-Turn / Dazzling Gleam
ability: Levitate
item: Life Orb
evs: 4 Atk / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
nature: Timid

Azelf acts as a great mixed wallbreaker, crippling defensive Pokemon with Knock Off
In fact, this was the main set for Azelf in OU (before Azelf was deemed unviable in OU)
 

Limitless

Success is the best revenge.
is a Top Tutor Alumnusis a Community Leader Alumnusis a Tiering Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Media Contributor Alumnus
I'd honestly put priority of Fire Blast over Knock Off on Azelf for the suicide lead. Forretress leads are just way too common for you to rely on Knock Off. And if you don't have Fire Blast against lead Forretress, you probably already lost the game. Fire Blast is usually a more universal option, compared to Knock Off which is probably best if you know your opponent won't use Forretress.
 
I'd honestly put priority of Fire Blast over Knock Off on Azelf for the suicide lead. Forretress leads are just way too common for you to rely on Knock Off. And if you don't have Fire Blast against lead Forretress, you probably already lost the game. Fire Blast is usually a more universal option, compared to Knock Off which is probably best if you know your opponent won't use Forretress.
dun

ok should be ready for 3/3 unless i fucked up some more
 

Limitless

Success is the best revenge.
is a Top Tutor Alumnusis a Community Leader Alumnusis a Tiering Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Media Contributor Alumnus
You should add that Explosion is used to block Rapid Spin. This is kind of a key concept.

You could also compare Azelf and Aerodactyl a little more.
 
This is an amateur check.

Removals
Additions
Comments

Overview
########

Azelf is regarded as one of the best suicide leads in the tier, due to it havings massive offensive and supportive options, great offensive stats, and a large movepool, both physically and special movepooly. It has a good boosting move in Nasty Plot, letting it function as a powerful special sweeper. However, Azelf is not without its faults. It ha; its poor defenses, fold and bad defensive typing make it fold to nearly any attack, and also has dangerous dvulnerable to the powerful Dark-types in the tier to threaten it such as, like Hydreigon and Mega Houndoom, due to its poor defensive typing. However, it is easy for Azelf to do its job, and canit provides good results when used right. The suicide lead set is like Aerodactyl's lead set, howeverexcept Aerodactyl has arguably better typing and can get past Crobat. Azelf, however, packs more punch, provides utility with Knock Off, and covers a wider varietyportion of the metagame. Azelf is also is better against spinners, particularly Mega Blastoise, while Aerodactyl is better at keeping hazards off the field in suicide lead versus suicide lead scenarios.

Suicide Lead
########
name: Suicide Lead
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Taunt
move 3: Flamethrower/ Knock Off
move 4: Explosion
ability: Levitate
item: Focus Sash
evs: 252 Atk / 252 Spe / 4 HP
nature: Naive / Jolly

Moves
========
Stealth Rock is the basis of this set, as it allowsletting Pokemon such as Roserade or Mega Manectric to achieve the OHKOes or 2HKOes needed to clean up and provide offensive pressure. Taunt prevents slower leads such as Donphan from setting up rocks, and deters Smeargle and Galvantula from setting up Spore or Sticky Web, respectively. Knock Off provides utility early game, and can cripple a good portion of Pokemon. Flamethrower is particularly for Forretress, who can cause problems for this set. Explosion is for after Azelf has done its job and allows a safe switch into an offensive Pokemon to start putting pressure on the opposing side. I; it also stops spinners or defoggers from cleaning hazards.

Set Details
========
The given EVs are simple: maximizinge Azelf's speed while doing as much damage as possible with Knock Off and Explosion. Focus Sash is used to guarantee that Azelf can get up rocks, hit hard with Knock Off, and then use Explodesion. A Naive nature can be used if running Fire Blast.

Usage Tips
========

Azelf should almost always be coming out turn 1one, unless it is being threatened by Fake Out leads or common scarfers, in which casebut even then it should still be in early-game. The plan is to either Knock Off or set up rocks, depending on what is on the opposing side. Taunt can be used turn 1one if other suicide leads, mainly like Smeargle or Galvantula are being sent out. After it has taken a hit and gotten up either of these moves, Explosion should be used unless there is a gGhost-type is on the field, in which case you should be usinge Knock Off on the switch. This can remove at least one Pokemon, possibly even two, and make it easier for things such as Hydreigon or Heracross to break through teams. An important thing to note is that this set should not lead against fast tTaunters, such as Sableye, andor Fake Out users, such as Ambipom.


Team Options
========

This set should be used on hyper offense teams with common sChoice Scarf users such aslike Hydreigon, who just barely miss the OHKO without Stealth Rock, and with Pokemon who can provide offensive pressure. Mega Houndoom can be used to kill /KO or revenge gGhost-types who try to switch in on Azelf as it uses Explodesion. Finally, fFighting-types such as Heracross are good partners as withey thaveir massive wallbreaking capabilities.

Dual Screens
#########
name: Dual Screens
move 1: Light Screen
move 2: Reflect
move 3: Taunt / Stealth Rock / Knock Off
move 4: Explosion
ability: Levitate
item: Light Clay
evs: 252 Atk / 252 Spe / 4 HP
nature: Jolly

Moves
========
The first two moveslotsLight Screen and Reflect are obvious, as Azelf ha's blazing fast speed which lets it set up both screens quickly. The third moveslot has many options: Taunt lets it cripple other set-up Pokemon, Stealth Rock lets it support the team further, and Knock Off is to provides utility. Explosion is to deals lots of damage while ensuring a safe switch in, and also avoiding a pothential andefog, which is very dangerous to this setDefog.

Set Details
========
The EVs are pretty much the same as the suicide lead, since they both increase amaximizing Attack and sSpeed in order to get itsthe job done. Light Clay is used to maximizes the amount of turns the screens stay up.

Usage Tips
========
This set is best used on Hhyper Ooffense, as it lets mons such as Porygon-Z and Mega Houndoom set up and begin their sweeps,kemon such and gives them a chance toPorygon-Z and Mega Houndoom set up and sweep without having to worry about being demolished by powerful hits. As soon as both screens are set up, Azelf should use Explodesion to deal a good chunk of damage to unresisted Pokemons, and lets it get a safe switch into a wallbreaker or sweeper. If gGhost-types are on the field, however, itAzelf should use Knock Off instead of eExploding, providing it has it,sion so it can set up screens later, if needed.

Team Options
========
Dual Screens support is best used with Pokemons who enjoy the turns to set up, such as Mega Houndoom, Porygon-Z, and Mega Absol, since most set up sweepers don't need more than 5five turns to start preparing for a sweep. Electric -types should also be used, such as Mega Manectric and Raikou toare good for takeing care of Crobat and Mega Aerodactyl, who both run through this set.

Nasty Plot
########
name: Nasty Plot
move 1: Nasty Plot
move 2: Psyshock
move 3: Fire Blast / Thunderbolt / Shadow Ball
move 4: Dazzling Gleam
ability: Levitate
item: Life Orb
evs: 252 SpA / 252 Spe / 4 SpD
ivs: 0 Atk
nature: Timid

Moves
========
Nasty Plot boosts Azelf's Special Attack to towering levels, which ismaking it very dangerous when coupled with its high speed. Psyshock is the STAB move of choice, having good coverage and hitting Florges for massive damage. Fire Blast hits Steel-types such as Mega Aggron and Forretress for massive damage, along with having good coverage. Thunderbolt lets it muscle through bulky wWater-types that aren't part gGround-type. Shadow Ball is for Victini, a common switch in to Azelf. Dazzling Gleam is necessary so thathelps it doesn'to not get walled by dDark-types such aslike Mega Houndoom and Hydreigon.

Set Details
========
The EVs and Timid nature are so thalet it outspeeds as muchany threats as it can while doing as much damage as possible, as well. Life Orb is used to maximize thes damage output.

Usage Tips
========
This set makes for a great sweeper, due thanks to Azelf's blazing fast speed and good offenses. Depending on yourthe coverage move in the last slot, Azelf appreciates having bulky wWaters from other team member-types removed if using Dazzling Gleam, and dDark-types such as Hydreigon and Honchkrow removed if using Thunderbolt. As such, it shouldn't be attempting a sweep until these Pokemons are removed.

Team Options
========
Nasty Plot Azelf enjoys hazard support from setters such as Froslass and Forretress, which help get it past Focus Sashes. Fighting-types such as Mienshao and Heracross also make good partners for Azelf as they take care of dDark-types such as Krookodile and Umbreon. Thunder WaveParalysis support is also beneficial tofor Azelf, as it letsting it outspeed most scarfers trying to revenge kill it. This usually comes from, so Slowbro and Mew make for good partners. Azelf also appreciates Pokemons that can break Mew, such as Megahorn Nidoking with Megahorn. ItAzelf should also be paired with Pokemon that want special walls out of the way, like Mega Houndoom and Hydreigon.


Other Options
########
Choiced sets, which aren't as viable since Azelf hates being locked into one move, are an option. However,For instance, a Choice Scarf canlets it outspeed every other common uscarfer in the tier, wiof Choice Scarf in th access to trickier, and makes a decent late-game cleaner., whereas Choice Specs and Choice Band provide raw power. Substitute can be used on the Nasty Plot set since Azelf forces a lot of switches. H; however, it is forced to give up a coverage move for this. Grass Knot can be used to killKO bulky wWater-types that are part gGround-type, as well as Rhyperior. A mixed set is viable, due to hanks tow Azelf has an's expansive movepool and 125 in bothequally strong mixed offenses. Expert Belt can be used with this, and can to bluff a Sash, Light Clay, or Choiced item.

Checks and Counters
########
The biggest stops to Azelf are dDark-types, such as Mega Houndoom, Hydreigon, and Mega Absol, as theywho can put the hurt on it with their STAB moves. Porygon2 can take most hits with ease,; however, it must be wary of getting its Eviolite knockremoved off. Fast tusers of Taunters,, in particular Sableye and Mega Aerodactyl in particular, stop the Ssuicide lead and Ddual Sscreens sets in their tracks, as Azelf can't reliably damage them, and both are immune or resistant to Explosion.
 
Last edited:
A Naive nature can be used if running Fire Blast.
Flamethrower now.

On all sets, remember to format the EVs in the order that the stats go. You've got your HP at the end right now.
After it has taken a hit and gotten up either of these moves, Explosion should be used unless a Ghost-type is on the field, in which case you should use Knock Off on the switch.
What switch? You mean when they have a Ghost-type on their team?
common Choice Scarf users like Hydreigon, who just barely miss the OHKO without Stealth Rock
Barely miss the OHKO on what?
Finally, Fighting-types such as Heracross are good partners with their massive wallbreaking capabilities.
Misleading. Is Scrafty a good partner? How about Chesnaught? Just make the Team Options more specific examples and less broad things like this.
The EVs are pretty much the same as the suicide lead
Stop that.
This set is best used on hyper offense, as it lets Pokemon such as Porygon-Z and Mega Houndoom set up and sweep without having to worry about being demolished by powerful hits.
This goes in Team Options, not Usage Tips. Usage Tips is for stuff like "Set up the proper screen to protect Azelf from the current attacker. If they have a physical attacker out, use Reflect, but use Light Screen for a special attacker."
ivs: 0 Atk
This is never stated in analyses; it's assumed the reader knows to do it.
This set makes for a great sweeper, thanks to Azelf's blazing fast speed and good offenses. Depending on the coverage move in the last slot, Azelf appreciates having bulky Water-types from other team members removed if using Dazzling Gleam, and Dark-types such as Hydreigon and Honchkrow removed if using Thunderbolt. As such, it shouldn't attempt a sweep until these Pokemon are removed.
Alright, the first sentence adds nothing. Make sure to explain when and under what circumstances Azelf can set up a Nasty Plot. Also the stuff about Thundebolt or Dazzling Gleam doesn't fit because those two moves aren't slashed with each other. Anyway, you give Honchkrow as a Pokemon that needs to be removed if you have Thunderbolt instead of Dazzling Gleam (it still needs to be removed, but because of Sucker Punch). And the stuff about removing certain things is more team options. Explain not to try to sweep until scarfers and the such are removed.

Finally, Checks and Counters are formatted incorrectly. Look at some of the done OU analyses to see how.
 
Flamethrower now.

On all sets, remember to format the EVs in the order that the stats go. You've got your HP at the end right now.

What switch? You mean when they have a Ghost-type on their team?

Barely miss the OHKO on what?

Misleading. Is Scrafty a good partner? How about Chesnaught? Just make the Team Options more specific examples and less broad things like this.

Stop that.

This goes in Team Options, not Usage Tips. Usage Tips is for stuff like "Set up the proper screen to protect Azelf from the current attacker. If they have a physical attacker out, use Reflect, but use Light Screen for a special attacker."

This is never stated in analyses; it's assumed the reader knows to do it.

Alright, the first sentence adds nothing. Make sure to explain when and under what circumstances Azelf can set up a Nasty Plot. Also the stuff about Thundebolt or Dazzling Gleam doesn't fit because those two moves aren't slashed with each other. Anyway, you give Honchkrow as a Pokemon that needs to be removed if you have Thunderbolt instead of Dazzling Gleam (it still needs to be removed, but because of Sucker Punch). And the stuff about removing certain things is more team options. Explain not to try to sweep until scarfers and the such are removed.

Finally, Checks and Counters are formatted incorrectly. Look at some of the done OU analyses to see how.

Alright, changes should be made. If i fucked up on anything else, tell me. ;-;
 

TheManlyLadybug

Banned deucer.
AM check! (WIP)
Add
Remove
(Comments)

Overview
########

  • Has great physical and special movepool
  • High offenses and speed
  • One of the best suicide leads in the tier
  • Low defenses
  • Weak to common offensive types and Knock Off spam
Suicide Lead
########
name: Suicide Lead
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Taunt
move 3: Flamethrower / Knock Off
move 4: Explosion
ability: Levitate
item: Focus Sash
evs: 252 Atk / 252 Spe / 4 HP
nature: Naive / Jolly

Moves
========
  • Knock Off provides utility early-game
  • Flamethrower is for Steel types, particularly Forretress
  • Taunt prevents other mons from setting up
  • Stealth Rock is Stealth Rock
  • Explosion is to inflict heavy damage on the opposing side, and to prevent spinners from clearing hazards
Set Details
========
  • EVs are to maximize speed and damage, Naive nature is used if you're running Flamethrower
  • Focus Sash is so it can get off at least 2 of its moves before dying

Usage Tips
========
Azelf should almost always be coming out turn 1, unless it is being threatened by Fake Out leads or common scarfers, in which case it should still be in early-game. The plan is to either Knock Off or set up rocks, depending on what is on the opposing side. Taunt can be used turn 1 if other suicide leads, mainly Smeargle or Galvantula are being sent out. After it has taken a hit and got up either of these moves, Explosion should be used unless there is a ghost on the field, in which case you should be using Knock Off on the switch. This can remove at least one mon, possibly even two, and make it easier for things such as Hydreigon or Heracross to break through teams. An important note is that this set should not lead against fast taunters, such as Sableye, and Fake Out users, such as Ambipom.

Team Options
========
  • Common Scarfers such as Hydreigon, Flygon, and Mienshao, who appreciate Stealth Rock support
  • Mega Houndoom, who can set up on ghost types who try to switch into Azelf
  • Fighting-types, such as Heracross, who can punish dark-types, and are generally good at wallbreaking.


Nasty Plot
########
name: Nasty Plot
move 1: Nasty Plot
move 2: Psyshock
move 3: Fire Blast / Thunderbolt / Shadow Ball
move 4: Dazzling Gleam
ability: Levitate
item: Life Orb
evs: 252 SpA / 252 Spe / 4 SpD
nature: Timid

Moves
========
  • Nasty Plot is Azelf's set-up option
  • Psyshock is the STAB move of choice
  • Fire Blast or Flamethrower lets Azelf hit steel-types such as Bronzong and Forretress.
  • Thunderbolt is for muscling past bulky waters that aren't part ground.
  • Dazzling Gleam lets it get past dark-types such as Sableye and Hydreigon
  • Shadow Ball lets it hit Mew and Victini, who are common switch-ins for the set
Set Details
========
  • EVs are so that it can maximize overall damage and speed
  • Life Orb is to increase the damage output. The recoil doesn't matter, as Azelf folds at most strong attacks.
Usage Tips
========
This set makes for a great sweeper, due to Azelf's blazing fast speed and good offenses. Depending on your coverage move in the last slot, Azelf appreciates bulky waters from other team members removed if using Dazzling Gleam, and dark-types such as Hydrei and Honch removed if using Thunderbolt. As such, it shouldn't be attempting a sweep until these mons are removed.

Team Options
========
  • Mons such as Froslass and Forretress, who can set up hazards which make it easier for Azelf to sweep
  • Fighting-types such as Mienshao and Heracross who can take care of dark-types Krookodile and Umbreon
  • Thunder Wave support from mons such as Slowbro or Mew can be effective for its sweep
  • Pokemon that benefit from special walls broken, such as Roserade and Mega Manectric
  • Mons that can beat Mew with ease, such as Mega Houndoom and Hydreigon



Dual Screens
#########
name: Dual Screens
move 1: Light Screen
move 2: Reflect
move 3: Taunt / Stealth Rock / Knock Off
move 4: Explosion
ability: Levitate
item: Light Clay
evs: 252 Atk / 252 Spe / 4 HP
nature: Jolly

Moves
========
  • The first two moveslots are to set up screens, obviously.
  • The third moveslot can be either used to further support your team with rocks, cripple a good portion of the tier with Knock Off, or prevent other set up with Taunt
  • Explosion is so that it can safely get in an offensive mon while dealing some damage.

Set Details
========
  • The EVs are supposed to increase offenses and speed, letting it get off at least one of the screens and explode.
  • Light Clay is used to maximize the duration of screens, so that offensive mons can safely switch in after Explosion and rip through teams.
  • Jolly nature is used so that it outspeeds common mons while doing as much damage as possible with Explosion.

Usage Tips
=========
This set is best used on Hyper Offense, as it lets mons such as Porygon-Z and Mega Houndoom set up and begin their sweeps, and gives them a chance to set up without having to worry about being demolished by powerful hits. As soon as both screens are set up, Azelf should explode to deal a good chunk of damage to unresisted mons, and lets it get a safe switch into a wallbreaker or sweeper. If ghosts are on the field, however, it should use Knock Off instead of exploding, providing it has it, so it can set up screens later if needed.

Team Options
========
  • Offensive mons who enjoy screen support and can set up, mainly Mega Houndoom and Porygon-Z
  • Electric types, such as Raikou or Mega Manectric, who can take care of Crobat, which is a big threat to this set.



Other Options
########

  • Choiced sets, which aren't as viable since Azelf hates being locked into one move. However, Scarf can outspeed every other common scarfer in the tier, with access to trick, and makes a decent late-game cleaner. Specs and Band provide raw power.
  • Substitute, which is good for Nasty Plot since it forces a fair amount of switches, however, it has bad defenses and will break at any mildly powerful hit.
  • Grass Knot can be used to kill bulky waters who are immune to Thunderbolt, mainly Swampert.
  • A mixed set is viable, due to how Azelf has an expansive movepool and 125 in both offenses.
  • Expert Belt can be coupled with its large movepool to deal lots of damage while bluffing a choiced set, or sash.


Checks & Counters
########
  • Dark-types, such as Houndoom, Hydreigon, and Mega Absol can all revenge Azelf fairly easily while having a Psyshock immunity
  • Porygon2, who can take most hits with ease, however it must be wary of Knock Off
  • Speed Boosters, such as Yanmega and Sharpedo, can Protect to gain a speed boost and revenge with a STAB SE hit.
  • Sableye and Mega Aerodactyl stop the Suicide Lead and Dual Screen sets, as they have fast taunts, are immune/resistant to Explosion, and can easily kill Azelf

Overview
########

Azelf is regarded as one of the best suicide leads in the tier, due to its massive offensive and supportive options, (RC) and great offensive stats, (RC) and large physical and special movepool. (Redundant, you mention massive offensive options and then you say it has a good physical and special move pool) It has a good boosting move in Nasty Plot, letting it function as a powerful special sweeper. However, Azelf is not without its faults; its poor defenses, (RC) and bad defensive typing make it fold to nearly any attack and vulnerable to the powerful Dark-types in the tier, like such as Hydreigon and Mega Houndoom. However, it is easy for Azelf to do its job, and it provides good results when used right. The suicide lead set is like similar to Aerodactyl's lead set, except Aerodactyl has arguably better typing and can get past Crobat. Azelf, however, packs more of a punch, provides utility with Knock Off, and covers a wider portion of the metagame. Azelf is also better against spinners, particularly Mega Blastoise, while Aerodactyl is better at keeping hazards off the field in suicide lead versus suicide lead scenarios.

Suicide Lead
########
name: Suicide Lead
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Taunt
move 3: Flamethrower/ Knock Off
move 4: Explosion
ability: Levitate
item: Focus Sash
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spd
nature: Naive / Jolly

Moves
========
Stealth Rock is the basis of this set, letting helping Pokemon such as Roserade (Idk about this, Roserade mostly acts as an Offensive Spiker, I would replace it with something else) or Mega Manectric achieve the OHKOes or 2HKOes (noun, 2HKOes is used if you're saying "Azelf 2HKOes [insert pokemon] after Stealth Rock." But if you're saying "helps achieve 2HKOs" then it's a noun in that case, so the "e" should be taken out) needed to clean and provide offensive pressure. Taunt prevents slower leads such as Donphan from setting up rocks, and deters Smeargle and Galvantula from setting up Spore and or Sticky Web, (AC) respectively. Knock Off provides utility early game and can cripple a good portion of Pokemon. Flamethrower is used particularly for Forretress, who can cause problems for this set. Explosion is used for after Azelf has done its job and allows a safe switch into an offensive Pokemon to put pressure on the opposing side; it also stops spinners or and Defog users defoggers from cleaning removing hazards.

Set Details
========
The given EVs maximize Azelf's sSpeed while doing as much damage as possible with Knock Off and Explosion. Focus Sash is used to guarantee that Azelf can get up rocks, hit hard with Knock Off, and then use Explosion. A Naive nature can be used if running Flamethrower.

Usage Tips
========

Azelf should almost always be used as a lead coming out turn one, (RC) unless it is being threatened by Fake Out leads or common scarfers, but even then it should still be used in early-game. The plan (idk about saying "The plan," I'd rephrase the sentence to something like "First, use either Knock Off or Stealth Rock") is to either Knock Off or set up rocks, depending on what your opponent leads with is on the opposing side. Taunt can be used turn one if other suicide leads, (RC) like such as Smeargle or Galvantula are sent out. After it has taken a hit and gotten up used either of these moves, Explosion should be used unless a Ghost-type is on the field, in which case you should use Knock Off on the switch to the Ghost-type to take advantage of their prediction Azelf using Explosion. This can remove at least one Pokemon, (RC) and make it easier for things Pokemon such as Hydreigon or Heracross to break through teams. An It is important to note is that this set should not lead against fast Taunters, (RC) such as Sableye, or Fake Out users, (RC) such as Ambipom.


Team Options
========

This set should be used on hyper offense teams with common Choice Scarf users such as like Hydreigon, (RC) who just barely miss the OHKO on Pokemon with decent physical or special bulk such as Mega Houndoom without Stealth Rock, and with Pokemon that who can provide offensive pressure. Mega Houndoom can KO or revenge kill Ghost-types who try to switch in on Azelf as it uses Explosion. Finally, offensive Fighting-types that are offensive and have with a high sSpeed stat such as Heracross and Mienshao are make good partners with their due to their massive wallbreaking capabilities.

Dual Screens
#########
name: Dual Screens
move 1: Light Screen
move 2: Reflect
move 3: Taunt / Stealth Rock / Knock Off
move 4: Explosion
ability: Levitate
item: Light Clay
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
nature: Jolly

Moves
========
Light Screen and Reflect are obvious, as Azelf's blazing fast speed lets it set up both screens quickly. The third moveslot has many options: Taunt lets it cripple other set-up Pokemon, Stealth Rock lets it support the team, and Knock Off provides utility. Explosion deals lots of damage while ensuring a safe switch in and avoiding a potential and dangerous Defog.

Set Details
========
The EVs are standard, maximizing Attack and Speed in order to get the job done. Light Clay maximizes the amount of turns the screens stay up.

Usage Tips
========
Depending on which Pokemon you're facing, you should set up the proper screen to take less damage from their attacks. As soon as both screens are up, Azelf should use Explosion to deal a good chunk of damage to unresisted Pokemon, and lets it get a safe switch into a wallbreaker or sweeper. If Ghost-types are on the field, however, Azelf should use Knock Off instead of Explosion, so it can set up screens later, if needed. If you're setting up screens late-game, and the opposing team has only Pokemon that use physical or special moves, then you should only use the screen that corresponds to it.

Team Options
========
Dual Screens support is best used with Pokemon who enjoy turns to set up, such as Mega Houndoom, Porygon-Z, and Mega Absol, since most set up sweepers don't need more than five turns to start preparing for a sweep. Electric types such as Mega Manectric and Raikou are good for taking care of Crobat and Mega Aerodactyl, who both run through this set.

Nasty Plot
########
name: Nasty Plot
move 1: Nasty Plot
move 2: Psyshock
move 3: Fire Blast / Thunderbolt / Shadow Ball
move 4: Dazzling Gleam
ability: Levitate
item: Life Orb
evs: 252 Spd / 252 SAtk / 4 SDef
nature: Timid

Moves
========
Nasty Plot boosts Azelf's Special Attack to towering levels, making it very dangerous when coupled with its high speed. Psyshock is the STAB move of choice, having good coverage and hitting Florges for massive damage. Fire Blast hits Steel-types such as Mega Aggron and Forretress for massive damage, along with having good coverage. Thunderbolt lets it muscle through bulky Water-types that aren't part Ground-type. Shadow Ball is for Victini, a common switch in to Azelf. Dazzling Gleam helps to not get walled by Dark-types like Mega Houndoom and Hydreigon.

Set Details
========
The EVs and Timid Nature let it outspeed as many threats as it can while doing as much damage as possible. Life Orb maximizes the damage output.

Usage Tips
========
Depending on the coverage move in the last slot, Azelf appreciates having bulky Steel-types from other team members removed if using Thunderbolt, and Water-types such as Vaporeon and Slowbro removed if using Fire Blast. As such, it shouldn't attempt a sweep until these Pokemon are removed. Azelf should also be setting up when common Choice Scarf users are removed

Team Options
========
Nasty Plot Azelf enjoys hazard support from setters such as Froslass and Forretress, which help get it past Focus Sashes. Fighting-types such as Mienshao and Heracross also make good partners for Azelf as they take care of Dark-types such as Krookodile and Umbreon. Paralysis support is also beneficial for Azelf, letting it outspeed most scarfers trying to revenge kill, so Slowbro and Mew make for good partners. Azelf also appreciates Pokemon that can break Mew, such as Nidoking with Megahorn. Azelf should also be paired with Pokemon that want special walls out of the way, like Mega Houndoom and Hydreigon.


Other Options
########
Choice sets, which aren't as viable since Azelf hates being locked into one move, are an option. For instance, a Choice Scarf lets it outspeed every other common user of Choice Scarf in the tier, and makes a decent late-game cleaner, whereas Choice Specs and Choice Band provide raw power. Substitute can be used on the Nasty Plot set since Azelf forces a lot of switches; however, it is forced to give up a coverage move for this. Grass Knot can be used to KO bulky waters that are part ground, as well as Rhyperior. A mixed set is viable, thanks to Azelf's expansive movepool and equally strong mixed offenses. Expert Belt can be used with this, to bluff a Sash, Light Clay, or Choice item.

Checks and Counters
########
**Dark-types** The biggest stops to Azelf are Dark-types, such as Mega Houndoom, Hydreigon, and Mega Absol, who can put the hurt on it with their STAB moves.

**Porygon2** Porygon2 can take most hits with ease; however, it must be wary of getting its Eviolite knocked off.

**Fast Taunt users** Fast users of Taunt, in particular Sableye and Mega Aerodactyl, stop the suicide and dual screen sets in their tracks, as Azelf can't reliably damage them, and both are immune or resistant to Explosion.
 
Last edited:

horyzhnz

[10:02:17 AM] flcl: its hory xD
is a Top Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Media Contributor Alumnus
Bouffalant, GP'd on request.
add or capitalize
remove
comments
Overview
########

Azelf is regarded as one of the best suicide leads in the tier, due to its massive offensive and supportive options,(RC) as well as its great offensive stats,(RC) and large physical and special movepool. It Azelf even has a good boosting move in Nasty Plot, letting it function as a powerful special sweeper. However, Azelf is not without its faults; its poor defenses,(RC) and bad defensive typing make it fold to nearly any attack and also leave it vulnerable to the powerful Dark-types in the tier, like such as Hydreigon and Mega Houndoom. However, it is easy for Azelf to do its job, and it provides good results when used right. The suicide lead set is like similar to Aerodactyl's lead set, except Aerodactyl has arguably better typing and can get past Crobat. Azelf, however, packs more of a punch, provides utility with Knock Off, and covers a wider portion of the metagame has a much wider movepool that gives it better coverage options. Azelf is also better against spinners, particularly Mega Blastoise, while Aerodactyl is better at keeping hazards off the field in suicide lead versus suicide lead scenarios. focusing too much on the comparison between aerodactyl and azelf, you should only be giving the pros and cons of azelf in the overview. rearrange the overview so that it shows the pros first (compare it to aero in maybe 1-2 lines), then the cons, then wrap it off with 'overall azelf yada yada yada'

Suicide Lead
########
name: Suicide Lead
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Taunt
move 3: Flamethrower / Knock Off (space between slashes)
move 4: Explosion
ability: Levitate
item: Focus Sash
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spd Spe
nature: Naive / Jolly

Moves
========
Setting up Stealth Rock is the basis primary purpose of this set, letting Pokemon such as Roserade or Mega Manectric achieve the OHKOes or 2HKOes needed to clean and provide offensive pressure. Taunt prevents slower leads such as Donphan from setting up rocks Stealth Rock, and deters Smeargle and Galvantula from setting up using Spore or setting up Sticky Web,(AC) respectively. Knock Off provides utility early-game and can cripple a good portion of Pokemon the metagame. Flamethrower is particularly used specifically for Forretress, who can otherwise cause problems for this set. Explosion is for after Azelf has done its job and allows a safe switch into an offensive Pokemon to put pressure on the opposing side,(AC) it also as well as stopping spinners or defoggers from cleaning hazards removing entry hazards.

Set Details
========
The given EVs maximize Azelf's Speed while doing letting it do as much damage as possible with Knock Off and Explosion. Focus Sash is used to guarantee that Azelf can get up rocks set up Stealth Rock, hit hard with Knock Off, and then use Explosion. (Doesn't Azelf set up SR, get knocked down to its sash, then use Explosion? I don't see how you can use Knock Off against a more offensive team) A Naive nature can be used if running Flamethrower.

Usage Tips
========

Azelf should almost always be coming out turn one used as a lead, unless it is being threatened by Fake Out leads or common scarfers, but even then it should still be in used early-game. The plan first move is should be to either use Knock Off or set up rocks Stealth Rock, depending on what is on the opposing side the opponent is leading with. Taunt can be used turn one if other suicide leads,(RC) like Smeargle or Galvantula are sent out. After it Azelf has taken a hit and gotten up used either of these moves, Explosion should be used unless a Ghost-type is on the field, in which case you should use Knock Off on the switch to the Ghost-type to take advantage of Azelf using Explosion (if it's already on the field, you don't need to switch to the ghost-type. also next part is redundant). This can remove at least one Pokemon, and make it easier for things Pokemon such as like Hydreigon or Heracross to break through teams. An It is important to note is that this set should not lead against fast Taunters,(RC) such as Sableye, or Fake Out users,(RC) such as Ambipom.


Team Options
========

This set should be used on hyper offense teams with common Choice Scarf users like Hydreigon, who just barely miss the OHKO on Pokemon with decent physical or special bulk such as Mega Houndoom without Stealth Rock, and with Pokemon who that can provide offensive pressure. Mega Houndoom can KO or revenge kill Ghost-types who try to switch in on Azelf as it uses Explosion. Finally, offensive Fighting-types that are offensive and have a with high Speed stat such as Heracross and Mienshao are good partners with due to their massive great wallbreaking capabilities.

Dual Screens
#########
name: Dual Screens
move 1: Light Screen
move 2: Reflect
move 3: Taunt / Stealth Rock / Knock Off
move 4: Explosion
ability: Levitate
item: Light Clay
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
nature: Jolly

Moves
========
Light Screen and Reflect are obvious, as Azelf's blazing fast speed lets it set up both screens quickly. The third moveslot has many options; Taunt lets it cripple other setup Pokemon, Stealth Rock lets it support the team, and Knock Off provides utility. Explosion deals lots of damage while ensuring a safe switch-in and avoiding a potential and dangerous Defog.

Set Details
========
The EVs are standard, maximizing Attack and Speed in order to get the job done. Light Clay maximizes the amount of turns the screens stay up.

Usage Tips
========
Depending on which Pokemon you're facing, you should set up the proper appropriate screen to take less damage from their attacks. As soon as both screens are up, Azelf should use Explosion to deal a good chunk of damage to unresisted Pokemon most Pokemon, and lets it get allow a safe switch into a wallbreaker or sweeper. If Ghost-types are on the field, however, Azelf should use Knock Off instead of Explosion, so it can set up screens later,(RC) if needed. If you're setting up screens late-game, and the opposing team has only Pokemon that use physical or special moves, then you should only use the screen that corresponds to it. redundant

Team Options
========
Dual Screens support is best used with Pokemon who enjoy turns to set up an easier time setting up, such as Mega Houndoom, Porygon-Z, and Mega Absol, since most setup sweepers don't need more than five turns to start preparing for a sweep. Electric types such as Mega Manectric and Raikou are good for taking care of Crobat and Mega Aerodactyl, who both run through check this set with access to the Infiltrator ability and a higher Speed stat, respectively.

Nasty Plot
########
name: Nasty Plot
move 1: Nasty Plot
move 2: Psyshock
move 3: Fire Blast / Thunderbolt / Shadow Ball
move 4: Dazzling Gleam
ability: Levitate
item: Life Orb
evs: 252 Spd / 252 SAtk / 4 SDef 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
nature: Timid

Moves
========
Nasty Plot boosts Azelf's Special Attack to towering levels, making it very dangerous when coupled with its high speed. Psyshock is the STAB move of choice, having good decent coverage (psychic is actually REALLY shitty coverage; it doesn't hit much for SE) and hitting Florges for massive damage. Fire Blast hits Steel-types such as Mega Aggron and Forretress for massive damage,(RC) along with having good coverage. Thunderbolt lets it muscle through bulky Water-types that aren't part Ground-type. Shadow Ball is for Victini, a common switch-in to Azelf. Dazzling Gleam helps to not get prevents it from getting completely walled by Dark-types like Mega Houndoom and Hydreigon.

Set Details
========
The EVs and Timid nature let it outspeed as many threats as it can while doing as much damage as possible. Life Orb maximizes the damage output.

Usage Tips
========
Depending on the coverage move in the last slot, Azelf appreciates having bulky Steel-types from other team members removed if using Thunderbolt, and Water-types such as Vaporeon and Slowbro removed if using Fire Blast. As such, it shouldn't attempt a sweep until these Pokemon are removed. Azelf should also be setting up when common Choice Scarf users are removed. <- full stop

Team Options
========
Nasty Plot Azelf enjoys entry hazard support from hazard setters such as Froslass and Forretress, which help get it past Pokemon with Focus Sashes. Fighting-types such as Mienshao and Heracross also make good partners for Azelf as they take care of Dark-types such as Krookodile and Umbreon. Paralysis support is also beneficial for Azelf, letting it outspeed most scarfers trying to revenge kill, so Slowbro and Mew make for good partners. Azelf also appreciates Pokemon that can break through Mew, such as Nidoking with Megahorn. Azelf should also be paired with Pokemon that want special walls out of the way, like Mega Houndoom and Hydreigon.


Other Options
########
Choice sets, which aren't as viable since Azelf hates being locked into one move, are an option Choice sets are an option, although they aren't as viable since Azelf hates being locked into one move. For instance, a Choice Scarf lets it outspeed every other common user of Choice Scarf in the tier,(RC) and makes a decent late-game cleaner, whereas Choice Specs and Choice Band provide raw power. Substitute can be used on the Nasty Plot set since Azelf forces a lot of switches; however, it is forced to give up a coverage move for this. Grass Knot can be used to KO bulky waters that are part Ground-type, as well as such as Rhyperior. A mixed set is viable, thanks to Azelf's expansive movepool and equally strong mixed offenses. Expert Belt can be used with this,(RC) to bluff a Focus Sash, Light Clay, or Choice item.

Checks and Counters
########
**Dark-types** The biggest stops to Azelf are Dark-types, such as Mega Houndoom, Hydreigon, and Mega Absol, who can put the hurt on hit it for super effective damage with their STAB moves.

**Porygon2** Porygon2 can take most hits with ease; however, it must be wary of getting its Eviolite knocked off.

**Fast Taunt users** Fast users of Taunt, in particular Sableye and Mega Aerodactyl, stop the suicide and dual screen sets in their tracks,(RC) as Azelf can't reliably damage them, and both are immune or resistant to Explosion.

Some sentence structure issues and some fluff, but otherwise nicely done. Anyway, tag me when you've fixed up the overview and changed the stuff, then i'll come back and stamp this.
 

Users Who Are Viewing This Thread (Users: 1, Guests: 0)

Top