Clefable [QC 2/3]

[Jho]

[OVERVIEW]

Clefable cements itself as one of the most common Pokemon in OU due to how many roles it compresses into one team slot, allowing it to easily fit on both offensive and bulkier teams. Thanks to its solid defensive typing and respectable bulk, it is one of the premier checks to common Pokemon such as Dragapult, Kommo-o, and opposing Clefable. On top of this, Clefable can also provide its teammates with valuable utility options such as Wish, Stealth Rock and Aromatherapy. Clefable's support movepool and ability to ignore status damage are what sets it apart from Sylveon, which is otherwise a much better check to Pokemon such as Hydreigon and Dragapult. On top of being an excellent defensive option, Clefable can also become a potent wallbreaker when used with a Life Orb and becomes very difficult to switch into due to its myriad of coverage options. Despite this, Clefable can be rather passive when not running an offensive set, making it vulnerable to powerful wallbreakers such as Rotom-H, Aegislash, and Excadrill. Its defenses are also lacklustre when uninvested, meaning it can often be beaten by strong Pokemon such as Hydreigon and Conkeldurr. Due to its mediocre speed tier, Clefable is also very susceptible to being revenge killed by Pokemon such as Excadrill and Gengar. On top of this, it is also easily trapped by Dugtrio, which is often run alongside Pokemon Clefable will look to switch in to, such as Dragapult and Hydreigon.

[SET]
name: Specially Defensive
move 1: Moonblast
move 2: Wish
move 3: Protect
move 4: Stealth Rock / Thunder Wave / Aromatherapy
item: Leftovers
ability: Magic Gaurd
nature: Calm
evs: 252 HP / 160 Def / 96 SpD

[SET COMMENTS]
Set Description
========
Moonblast is Clefable's strongest option for threatening Pokemon it looks to check, such as Hydreigon and Dragapult, and also a solid neutral attack versus Pokemon which may look to come in on Clefable, such as Sylveon. Wish gives Clefable a consistent recovery option that can also be used to heal its teammates. This is further supported by using Protect, which allows Clefable to safely receive its Wish, whilst also allowing it to scout common Choice item users, such as Aegislash and Dragapult. Clefable makes for an excellent Stealth Rock setter due to how often it can come into player, although it can often struggle to keep them on the field as it is forced to switch out by common removal options such as Corviknight and Excadrill. As a result of this, pairing Clefable with Stealth Rock setters such as Seismitoad allows Clefable to run additional utility options instead. Thunder Wave is one such utility option which allows Clefable to cripple Pokemon which look to switch into Clefable, such as Aegislash and Gengar. Aromatherapy is another option which allows Clefable to prevent its teammates from being worn down by status conditions. This option works particularly well with Pokemon such as Nasty Plot + 3 attacks Hydreigon, as it allows it to switch into Pokemon such as Rotom-H, Toxapex, and Seismitoad without fearing permanent status conditions reducing its longevity.

The given spread allows Clefable to take a +2 Flash Cannon from Substitute Hydreigon whilst preserving some physical bulk, which can help it better take on Pokemon such as Conkeldurr. However, if a sturdier check to Hydreigon is required, a spread with maximum special defence can be used instead. Alternatively, Clefable can also use a more physically defensive spread with 252 HP EVs, 240 Def EVs, and 16 SpD EVs with a Calm nature, which allows it to survive a +2 Brave Bird from Hawlucha.


Usage Tips
========

Clefable should typically be brought in on Pokemon it checks, such as Dragapult and opposing Clefable. It should look to use these as opportunities to set up Stealth Rock, or use Wish to keep itself or its teammates healthy. Clefable can also be brought in to absorb status effects from Pokemon such as Seismitoad, which struggles to deal with Clefable. When it has these opportunities, Clefable should look to wish whenever possible in order to keep itself completely healthy, as any prior chip damage will allow Hydreigon to beat it much more easily. Using wish also allows teammates such as Rotom-H and Hydreigon to switch into Aegislash much more easily. When switching into Dragapult, Clefable must be wary of allowing it to Disable Moonblast as this will allow Dragapult to beat it. Be sure to scout for Disable by protecting after using Moonblast if the Dragapult was behind a substitute. Clefable should also look to scout which move common Choice item users lock into, as knowing which attack Pokemon such as Aegislash, Dracovish, and Toxtricity are going for makes them much easier to check.

Team Options
========

Clefable makes an excellent support for Pokemon with no recovery of their own, thanks to its access to Wish. Pokemon such as Seismitoad, Rotom-H, Ferrothorn, and Hydreigon greatly appreciate Clefable's Wish as it increases their longevity and allows them to come in more often. These Pokemon also appreciate Aromatherapy support from Clefable, as it allows them to switch into possible status moves more freely. Since Corviknight and Excadrill are some of the most common removal options, Clefable can have a hard time keeping Stealth Rock on the field. As a result of this, it is best to pair it with Pokemon that can beat those, such as Rotom-H and Corviknight respectively. Corviknight, in particular, makes for a great Clefable partner due to its ability to PP stall opposing Corviknight's Defog. On top of these, other Steel-types such as Ferrothorn and Aegislash also look to switch into Clefable and force it out, meaning Pokemon such as Hydreiong and Rotom-H that can switch into these also make for excellent teammates. Since Clefable is rather passive, it can struggle to force out Pokemon like Calm Mind Hatterene, Rotom-H, and Reuniclus, which will often look to set-up on it. Teammates which can consistently check these Pokemon, such as Aegislash, Seismitoad, and Hydreigon are important to pair with Clefable because of this. Whilst Clefable can be a decent check to most Hydreigons, it can often be overwhelmed and therefore appreciates a secondary Hydreigon check as a teammate. Pokemon such as Dragapult and Conkeldurr which can revenge kill Hydreigon are ideal for this. Dugtrio is also a great teammate for Clefable, as it can trap and remove troublesome Pokemon such as Excadrill and Toxapex, which can freely come in on Clefable.

[SET]
name: Life Orb
move 1: Moonblast
move 2: Flamethrower
move 3: Thunderbolt / Psychic
move 4: Moonlight
item: Life Orb
ability: Magic Guard
nature: Modest
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Set Description
========

Moonblast is Clefables best option for a strong spammable attack, as it allows it to OHKO common Pokemon such as Hydreigon and Dragapult. Flamethrower gives Clefable a way to hit the Steel-types which may look to switch in on a resisted Moonblast, such as Corviknight, Excadrill, and Aegislash. Whilst Fire Blast is much stronger, Flamethrower is generally preferred due to the formers poor accuracy making it extremely inconsistent. Thunderbolt allows Clefable to break through Toxapex, whilst also giving it a better option to hit Pokemon such as Cinderace and Milotic. Alternatively, Psychic can be run over Thunderbolt as it is just as strong against Toxapex but also gives Clefable a better way to hit Rotom-H and Gengar. Despite this, Thunderbolt is still prefered over Psychic due to it being a much better middle-ground option versus common defensive cores which use Toxapex paired with an Electric weak Pokemon, such as Corviknight. This is because Corviknight can force Clefable out if it comes in on a Psychic. Moonlight provides Clefable with recovery, allowing it to stay healthy throughout a match and therefore come in as often as possible. Life Orb is the item of choice for most offensive Clefable, as the recoil is negated by its ability, Magic Guard. This allows Clefable to become an extremely strong wallbreaker with no drawback. The given set runs maximum Speed investment as this allows Clefable to force speed ties with both Aegislash and opposing Clefable, giving it a very important chance to beat both.

Usage Tips
========

Clefable is best used as an early-to-mid-game wallbreaker and should look to overwhelm teams with its strong Moonblasts and coverage options. In order to get the most out of Clefable, one should look to bring it in on weaker Pokemon such as Seismitoad and Toxapex, as they will often try to cripple switch-ins with status conditions, which Clefable can ignore thanks to Magic Guard. Using Moonlight often is important in order to keep Clefable healthy and therefore, able to switch-in more often, however, using Moonlight means Clefable is not breaking down teams and so considerate use is advised. Clefable must be wary of switching directly into Pokemon such as Mandibuzz, which commonly carry Knock Off. This is because losing its Life Orb greatly reduces its effectiveness as a wallbreaker.

Team Options
========

U-turn and Volt Switch support are very beneficial for Clefable, as they allow it to come in safely and more often. Pokemon such as Corviknight, Mandibuzz, and the viable Rotom Formes make great teammates because of this. Rotom-W and Rotom-H, in particular, are great partners for Clefable, as they lure in Pokemon such as Seismitoad, which Clefable can easily come in on and beat for them. Corviknight is also an exceptional partner for Clefable as it is able to check Excadrill, which is one of the biggest threats to Clefable, whilst also being able to bring it in more often thanks to U-turn. Clefable appreciates partners which can break through bulky Fire-types, such as Rotom-H and Flareon, as it can struggle to do so itself. Pokemon such as Seismitoad and Gastrodon make ideal partners because of this. Clefable's wallbreaking power is greatly appreciated by Pokemon such as Dragapult and Hydreigon, as they can often sweep through teams once Clefable has worn down Pokemon such as Toxapex, Corviknight, Seismitoad, and opposing Clefable.


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

Calm Mind can be run in order to make Clefable less susceptible to other Special attacks which commonly run set-up options, such as Rotom-H and Rotom-C, whilst it also allows Clefable to take on Dragapult and opposing Clefable much more comfortably. However, offensive variants of Clefable struggle to fit it over one of its coverage options, and defensive variants tend to prefer the added utility from moves such as Thunder Wave, Stealth Rock, and Aromatherapy. Encore is another option Clefable can use, as it allows it to beat checks such as Sylveon, Toxapex, Flareon and Clefable by locking them into moves which do not force Clefable out, such as their various recovery options. Another option is to run Trick, alongside a Choice Scarf or a Sticky barb. This allows Clefable to cripple common checks such as Rotom-H, Corviknight, and Excadrill, making them much easier to beat in the long term.

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

**Steel-types**: While offensive variants of Clefable can deter Steel-types from switching in, Pokemon such as Excadrill, Aegislash, and Corviknight can still threaten it out if they manage to get in safely. If Clefable is defensive, all three can switch into it freely, although Corvinknight and Aegislash must be wary of Thunder Wave.

*Bulky Fire-types**: Bulky Fire-types are some of the most consistent defensive answers to Clefable, as they fear very little of its coverage options and can often switch into it freely. Pokemon such as Rotom-H can threaten it out by setting up with Nasty Plot, Flareon can threaten decent damage from Flare Blitz, and Centiskorch can threaten it out with Defense drops from Fire Lash.

**Faster Pokemon**: Pokemon such as Dracozolt, Dracovish, and Gengar can easily threaten to OHKO Clefable with their strong attacks and force it out whenever they come in.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Jho, 208105]]
- Quality checked by: [[Jordy, 395754]], [curiosity, 443485 ], [, ]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]

 

[Jordy]

comments in purple things to remove in red

[OVERVIEW]

• Clefable is an excellent option for bulkier teams due to the sheer amount of roles it compresses into one team slot, making it one of the most common Pokemon in OU.
• Thanks to its solid defensive typing and decent bulk, it is able to act as an excellent check to common threats such as Dragapult, non-Calm Mind Hatterene Conkeldurr, and opposing Clefable. Hatterene isn't particularly good in this metagame and Conkeldurr's very important right now, so it's a better example here. It can also provide its teammates with valuable utility options such as Wish and Stealth Rock. You should definitely mention Aromatherapy here as well.
• Access to Magic Guard makes Clefable an excellent pivot as it isn't afraid of being statused by Pokemon such as Seismitoad and Toxapex and can also ignore damage from entry hazards, allowing it to come in often. You could probably make a comparison to Sylveon here and mention that Clefable isn't really punished by hazards or status thanks to Magic Guard. Establishing why Clefable is generally speaking better than Sylveon is important.
• Clefable also has access to a myriad of coverage options, making it extremely difficult to switch into when it is paired with a Life Orb. However, when not running an offensive set, Clefable is extremely a little passive which makes it vulnerable to Pokemon such as Excadrill, Rotom-H, and Aegislash. Saying that specially defensive Clefable is extremely passive is a severe overstatement.
• Whilst Clefable's bulk is decent, it does not take hits well when uninvested, and can often be beaten down by strong wallbreakers. Such as? Its mediocre speed tier also leaves it susceptible to being revenge killed easily. By Pokemon like?
• Clefable is also relatively easy to exploit as it often relies on Wish for recovery, which can give opposing teams free turns to set up or freely bring in Pokemon which threaten Clefable out. I don't think this is particularly notable because not much progress is often made during those free turns, as Clefable can switch into another Pokemon and sustain it with Wish. A good example of this would be switching Rotom-H into Aegislash after using Wish with Clefable. There aren't really any setup sweepers that can set up against Clefable comfortably either.

You should mention that Clefable's easily trapped by Dugtrio somewhere in this Overview, and that it's commonly run alongside Pokemon that Clefable is supposed to check, such as Dragapult and Hydreigon.

[SET]
name: Specially Defensive
move 1: Moonblast
move 2: Wish
move 3: Protect
move 4: Stealth Rock / Thunder Wave / Aromatherapy
item: Leftovers
ability: Magic Gaurd
nature: Calm
evs: 252 HP / 160 Def / 96 SpD

[SET COMMENTS]
Set Description
========

• Moonblast is necessary as it allows Clefable to hit important targets such as Drapault and Hydreigon, which it looks to check. What the fuck is a "Drapault".
• Wish, coupled with Protect, gives Clefable a consistent recovery option that can also be used to heal its teammates. I think it's worth noting that Protect allows Clefable to scout Pokemon like Aegislash and Dragapult.
• Clefable makes for an excellent Stealth Rock setter due to how often it can come into play, however, it can often struggle to keep them up as it is forced out by common removal options such as Corviknight and Excadrill.
• Thunder Wave can be used to cripple Pokemon which look to come in on Clefable such as Aeigislash and Gengar.
• Alternatively, Aromatherapy may be considered as it allows Clefable to prevent its teammates from being worn down by status conditions. Note that this option is particularly appealing alongside Pokemon like Nasty Plot + 3 Attacks Hydreigon.
• The given spread allows Clefable to take a +2 Flash Cannon from non-Life Orb Substitute Hydreigon whilst retaining some physical bulk, which can help with Pokemon such as Conkeldurr. Alternatively, a spread utilising maximum Special Defense can be used in order to better take on Hydreigon.
• 252 HP / 152 Def / 104 SpD with a Bold nature is another spread that's been used a bunch lately. It is specifically made to take a +2 Brave Bird from Hawlucha with Clefable.

Usage Tips
========

• You typically want to bring Clefable in on the Pokemon it checks, such as Dragapult and opposing Clefable, and use them as an opportunity to set up Stealth Rock, or use Wish to keep itself or its teammates healthy. It can also be bought in to absorb status effects from Pokemon such as Seismitoad and Toxapex who struggle to deal with Clefable.
• Clefable should look to use Wish as often as possible in order to keep itself completely healthy, as any prior chip damage will allow Hydreigon to beat it much more easily. Using Wish also allows teammates such as Rotom-H and Hydreigon to switch into Aegislash much more easily, provided its set has been scouted first. Aegislash is pretty predictable so scouting its set first doesn't really impact anything.
• Whilst Clefable is an excellent check to Dragapult, you must be wary of letting Moonblast get disabled. Be sure to scout with Protect after using Moonblast if the Dragapult was behind a Substitute.
• Clefable can look to scout which move Choice item users which could threaten it lock into. Knowing which attack they are going for makes checking Pokemon such as Aegislash, Dracovish, and Toxtricity much easier.

Team Options
========

• Wish allows Clefable to be an excellent support for Pokemon with no recovery of their own, such as Seismitoad, Rotom-H, Ferrothorn, and Hydreigon as it greatly increases their longevity and allows them to come in more often. Saying something about the fact that Aromatherapy gives Seismitoad, Ferrothorn, and Hydreigon much more sustainability would also be useful.
• Clefable struggles to keep Stealth Rock on the field versus common removal options such as Corviknight and Excadrill, so pairing it with Pokemon that can switch into those, such as Rotom-H and Corviknight respectively, is beneficial. You could specifically mention that a Corviknight of your own allows you to PP stall their Corviknight out of Defog PP.
• Other Steel-types such as Ferrothorn and Aegislash can also easily come in on Clefable and force it out. Because of this, it is best to carry teammates which can pressure these, such as Rotom-H and Mandibuzz. Mandibuzz doesn't have a particularly easy time switching into either. I think Toxapex would probably be a better example. Whether you keep Mandibuzz is up to you, but Toxapex should be mentioned either way.
• Clefable also struggles to force out Pokmon such as Hatterene, Rotom-H, and Reuniclus which will often look to use it as set-up fodder. Definitely specify Calm Mind Hatterene here, as Clefable's a very strong check to Trick Room Hatterene. Packing consistent checks to these such as Aegislash, Seismitoad, and Hydreigon is important.
• It is often beneficial to pair Clefable with a secondary Hydreigon check as it can be overwhelmed quite easily, so Pokemon such as Conkeldurr and Dragapult make for good teammates.
• Dugtrio's quite commonly run with Clefable, so I think it's worth pointing out here.

[SET]
name: Life Orb
move 1: Moonblast
move 2: Flamethrower
move 3: Thunderbolt / Psychic
move 4: Moonlight
item: Life Orb
ability: Magic Guard
nature: Modest
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Set Description
========

• Moonblast acts as a strong, spammable STAB option for Clefable that allows it to OHKO common Pokemon such as Hydreigon and Dragapult.
• Flamethrower gives Clefable a way to hit Steel-types such as Corvinknight, Excadrill, and Aegislash that may look to switch into it. Mention why it's prefered to Fire Blast.
• Thunderbolt allows Clefable to deal with Toxapex whilst also giving it a better matchup versus Pokemon such as Gyarados and Sigilyph. Milotic is probably a little more notable than Sigilyph. You don't 2HKO Milotic, but can fish for a paralysis against it.
• Alternatively, Psychic can be used as it still hits Toxapex, but also gives Clefable a way to hit Pokemon such as Gengar and Rotom-H that may look to switch in. Despite this, Thunderbolt is generally preferred over Psychic as it is a better mid-ground option versus common defensive cores which use Corviknight Toxapex and Electric weak Pokemon such as Toxapex Corviknight. Mentioning it in this order makes more sense. This is because Corvinknight can force Clefable out if it comes in on Psychic.
• Moonlight provides Clefable with recovery, which allows it to stay healthy throughout a match and therefore, come in more often.
• Life Orb is the item of choice for offensive Clefable sets as the recoil is negated by Clefable's Magic Guard, turning it into a strong wallbreaker with no drawback.
• You should explain why you should run 252 Speed EVs on Clefable. Tying with Aegislash and other Clefable is incredibly important.

Usage Tips
========

• Clefable is best used as an early-to-mid-game wallbreaker and should look to lure in checks with its strong coverage options so that it can fire off strong Moonblasts unimpeded late game. I don't think Clefable really "lures" checks. It's a completely expected set with very little to no surprise factor. Just say that it should look to overwhelm teams instead, as that is more accurate.
• Look to bring Clefable in on weaker Pokemon such as Seismitoad and Toxapex, as they often try to cripple switch-ins with status conditions, which Clefable can ignore thanks to Magic Guard.
• Clefable should look to utilise Moonlight often in order to keep itself as healthy as possible, as this will allow it to switch into play more often. Clefable shouldn't really use Moonlight often as much as it should use it smartly. Keeping Clefable healthy is important to bring it into play, but you can't break down walls and click Moonlight every other turn.
• Clefable must be wary of switching directly into Pokemon such as Mandibuzz, which commonly carry Knock Off, as losing its Life Orb greatly reduces its effectiveness as a wallbreaker.

Team Options
========

• Clefable greatly appreciates U-turn and Volt Switch support as they allow it to come in safely and more often. Pokemon such as Corviknight, Mandibuzz, and Rotom-H,-C, and -W make great teammates because of this. The way you listed every Rotom forme here bothers me. For Rotom-H and Rotom-W, you could mention that Clefable can take advantage of their common checks.
• Corviknight makes an excellent partner for Clefable as it is one of the best answers to both Aegislash and Excadrill, two of the biggest threats to Clefable. Corviknight's not a particularly good Aegislash check.
• Clefable struggles to break through bulky Fire-types such as Rotom-H and Flareon, so pairing it with Pokemon that can reliably deal with these, such as Seismitoad and Gastrodon, is ideal.
• Pokemon such as Dragapult, Hydreigon, and Choice Scarf Dracovish also greatly appreciate Clefable's ability to wear down walls, as they can often sweep through teams once Pokemon such as Toxapex, Corviknight, Seismitoad, and opposing Clefable have taken sufficient chip damage. Choice Scarf Dracovish only goes on rain teams. Clefable does not.

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

• Calm Mind can be run in order to make Clefable less susceptible to other special attackers which commonly run set-up options, such as Rotom-H, Rotom-C, Hatterene, and Reuniclus. You don't beat Hatterene and Reuniclus anyways. Calm Mind gives you a lot more flexibility around Pokemon like Dragapult and Clefable, which is definitely notable. However, offensive variants of Clefable struggle to fit it over one of its coverage options, and defensive variants greatly tend to prefer the added utility from moves like Stealth Rock and Thunder Wave.

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

**Steel-types**: While offensive variants of Clefable can deter Steel-types from switching in, Pokemon such as Excadrill, Aegislash, and Corviknight can still threaten it out if they manage to get in safely. If Clefable is revealed to be defensive, all three can switch into it freely. Aegislash and Corviknight need to worry about Thunder Wave, though.

*Bulky Fire-types**: Bulky Fire-types are some of the most consistent defensive answers to Clefable, as they fear very little of its coverage options and can often switch into it freely. Pokemon such as Rotom-H can threaten it out by setting up with Nasty Plot, whilst Flareon can threaten decent damage from Flare Blitz. If you're going to mention Flareon, it's worth mentioning Centiskorch as well. Cinderace is a decent check as well.

**Faster Pokemon**: Pokemon such as Hydreigon, Dracovish, and Gengar can easily threaten Clefable out. I would much rather see another Pokemon like Dracozolt instead of Hydreigon. Whilst Hydreigon requires some prior chip to outright kill Clefable with Flash Cannon, Life Orb and Choice Specs variants still do massive damage.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Jho, 208105]]
- Quality checked by: [[, ], [, ], [, ]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]

Good job, 1/3.

 

[curiosity]

Hide

[OVERVIEW]

• Clefable is an excellent option for bulkier teams due to the sheer amount of roles it compresses into one team slot, making it one of the most common Pokemon in OU.
  • Clef shouldn't be limited to bulkier teams; most offences really love running clef rn so it's def worth mentioning
• Thanks to its solid defensive typing and decent bulk, it is able to act as an excellent check to common threats such as Dragapult, Conkeldurr, and opposing Clefable. It can also provide its teammates with valuable utility options such as Wish, Stealth Rock, and Aromatherapy.
  • Not a conk check bro >:( probably worth mentioning something like kommo-o instead
• Access to Magic Guard makes Clefable an excellent pivot as it isn't afraid of being statused by Pokemon such as Seismitoad and Toxapex and can also ignore damage from entry hazards. This additional longevity sets it apart from Sylveon, which whilst it can take on threats such as Hydreigon and Dragapult more comfortably, is much easier to wear down.
  • Also worth mentioning the huge support movepool that clef has, particularly twave + rocks + aromatherapy which are all pretty huge atm.
• Clefable also has access to a myriad of coverage options, making it extremely difficult to switch into when it is paired with a Life Orb. However, when not running an offensive set, Clefable is a little passive which makes it vulnerable to Pokemon such as Excadrill, Rotom-H, and Aegislash.
• Whilst Clefable's bulk is decent, it does not take hits well when uninvested, and can often be beaten down by strong wallbreakers such as Hydreigon and Conkeldurr. Its mediocre speed tier also leaves it susceptible to being revenge killed easily by Pokemon such as Excadrill and Gengar.
• Clefable is also easily trapped by Dugtrio, as it is often run alongside Pokemon, such as Dragapult and Hydreigon, that Clefable will look to switch into.

[SET]
name: Specially Defensive
move 1: Moonblast
move 2: Wish
move 3: Protect
move 4: Stealth Rock / Thunder Wave / Aromatherapy
item: Leftovers
ability: Magic Gaurd
nature: Calm
evs: 252 HP / 160 Def / 96 SpD

[SET COMMENTS]
Set Description
========

• Moonblast is necessary as it allows Clefable to hit important targets such as Dragapult and Hydreigon, which it looks to check.
• Wish, coupled with Protect, gives Clefable a consistent recovery option that can also be used to heal its teammates. Protect also allows Clefable to scout common Choice item users, such as Dragapult and Aegislash.
  • I'd probably move aegislash first since it's a lot more important to scout for since it runs like so many different sets and has different checks for said sets so def do that
• Clefable makes for an excellent Stealth Rock setter due to how often it can come into play, however, it can often struggle to keep them up as it is forced out by common removal options such as Corviknight and Excadrill.
  • Mention that running seismi frees up rocks from clef to use whatever in the last slot
• Thunder Wave can be used to cripple Pokemon which look to come in on Clefable such as Aeigislash and Gengar.
• Alternatively, Aromatherapy may be considered as it allows Clefable to prevent its teammates from being worn down by status conditions. Aromatherapy works particularly well with Pokemon such as Nasty Plot + 3 attacks Hydreigon, as it allows it to switch into Pokemon such as Rotom-H, Toxapex, and Seismitoad without fearing permanent status conditions reducing its longevity.
• The given spread allows Clefable to take a +2 Flash Cannon from Substitute Hydreigon whilst retaining some physical bulk, which can help it deal with Pokemon such as Conkeldurr. Alternatively, a spread utilising maximum Special Defense can be used in order to better take on Hydreigon.
• A more physically defensive spread using a Bold nature alongside 152 Defense EVs, 104 Special Defense EVs, and maximum HP is also an option, as this allows Clefable to survive a +2 Brave Bird from Hawlucha.

Mention max spdef; it's basically the standard at this point (don't ask me why we're mixed) so it's definitely worth including. e:

Usage Tips
========

• You typically want to bring Clefable in on the Pokemon it checks, such as Dragapult and opposing Clefable, and use them as an opportunity to set up Stealth Rock, or use Wish to keep itself or its teammates healthy. It can also be bought in to absorb status effects from Pokemon such as Seismitoad who struggle to deal with Clefable.
• Clefable should look to use Wish as often as possible in order to keep itself completely healthy, as any prior chip damage will allow Hydreigon to beat it much more easily. Using Wish also allows teammates such as Rotom-H and Hydreigon to switch into Aegislash much more easily.
• Whilst Clefable is an excellent check to Dragapult, you must be wary of letting Moonblast get disabled. Be sure to scout with Protect after using Moonblast if the Dragapult was behind a Substitute.
• Clefable can look to scout which move Choice item users which could threaten it lock into. Knowing which attack they are going for makes checking Pokemon such as Aegislash, Dracovish, and Toxtricity much easier.

Team Options
========

• Wish allows Clefable to be an excellent support for Pokemon with no recovery of their own, such as Seismitoad, Rotom-H, Ferrothorn, and Hydreigon as it greatly increases their longevity and allows them to come in more often. Aromatherapy is also a great asset for these Pokemon as it increases their sustainability and allows them to switch into possible status moves more freely.
• Clefable struggles to keep Stealth Rock on the field versus common removal options such as Corviknight and Excadrill, so pairing it with Pokemon that can switch into those, such as Rotom-H and Corviknight respectively, is beneficial. Corviknight also makes for an exceptional partner due to its ability to PP stall opposing Corviknight's Defog, allowing Clefable to keep Stealth Rock on the field indefinitely.
• Other Steel-types such as Ferrothorn and Aegislash can also easily come in on Clefable and force it out. Because of this, it is best to carry teammates which can pressure these, such as Rotom-H and Toxapex.
  • Not particularly keen on the pex mention here since it doesn't really deal with either of them so maybe replace this with something like hydra or pult or whatever else.
• Clefable also struggles to force out Pokmon such as Calm Mind Hatterene, Rotom-H, and Reuniclus which will often look to use it as set-up fodder. Packing consistent checks to these such as Aegislash, Seismitoad, and Hydreigon is important.
• It is often beneficial to pair Clefable with a secondary Hydreigon check as it can be overwhelmed quite easily, so Pokemon such as Conkeldurr and Dragapult make for good teammates.
• Dugtrio is commonly run alongside Clefable due to its ability to trap and remove Pokemon such as Excadrill and Toxapex, which Clefable lets in.

[SET]
name: Life Orb
move 1: Moonblast
move 2: Flamethrower
move 3: Thunderbolt / Psychic
move 4: Moonlight
item: Life Orb
ability: Magic Guard
nature: Modest
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Set Description
========

• Moonblast acts as a strong, spammable STAB option for Clefable that allows it to OHKO common Pokemon such as Hydreigon and Dragapult.
• Flamethrower gives Clefable a way to hit Steel-types such as Corvinknight, Excadrill, and Aegislash that may look to switch into it. Flamethrower is heavily prefered over Fire Blast due to the latter's poor accuracy.
• Thunderbolt allows Clefable to deal with Toxapex whilst also giving it a better matchup versus Pokemon such as Gyarados and Milotic.
  • Probably worth mentioning something like Cinderace over Gyara since Gyara isn't something that particularly afford to switch into LO Clef whereas Cinderace can def afford to pivot a few times since it resists 2/3 moves and doesn't take too much from either move + is a lot more relevant than Gyara atm
• Alternatively, Psychic can be used as it still hits Toxapex, but also gives Clefable a way to hit Pokemon such as Gengar and Rotom-H that may look to switch in. Despite this, Thunderbolt is generally preferred over Psychic as it is a better mid-ground option versus common defensive cores which use Toxapex and Electric weak Pokemon such as Corviknight. This is because Corvinknight can force Clefable out if it comes in on Psychic.
• Moonlight provides Clefable with recovery, which allows it to stay healthy throughout a match and therefore, come in more often.
• Life Orb is the item of choice for offensive Clefable sets as the recoil is negated by Clefable's Magic Guard, turning it into a strong wallbreaker with no drawback.
• This set runs maximum Speed investment as it allows Clefable to speed tie with both Aegislash and opposing Clefable, giving it an extremely important chance to beat both.

Usage Tips
========

• Clefable is best used as an early-to-mid-game wallbreaker and should look to overwhelm teams with its strong Moonblasts and coverage options.
• Look to bring Clefable in on weaker Pokemon such as Seismitoad and Toxapex, as they often try to cripple switch-ins with status conditions, which Clefable can ignore thanks to Magic Guard.
• Be considerate when using Moonlight. Clefable must be healthy to switch into play consistently, but it cant afford to use Moonlight too often because it needs to break down teams.
• Clefable must be wary of switching directly into Pokemon such as Mandibuzz, which commonly carry Knock Off, as losing its Life Orb greatly reduces its effectiveness as a wallbreaker.

Team Options
========

• Clefable greatly appreciates U-turn and Volt Switch support as they allow it to come in safely and more often. Pokemon such as Corviknight, Mandibuzz, and the viable Rotom Formes make great teammates because of this. Rotom-W and Rotom-H, in particular, are great partners as they lure it Pokemon such as Seismitoad, which Clefable can easily come in on and beat for them.
  • Replace wash with Mower, lot more prevalent atm so its def worth mentioning here.
• Corviknight makes an excellent partner for Clefable as it is a great answer to Excadrill, one of the biggest threats to Clefable. Corvinknight can also support Clefable by bringing it in more often thanks to U-turn.
• Clefable struggles to break through bulky Fire-types such as Rotom-H and Flareon, so pairing it with Pokemon that can reliably deal with these, such as Seismitoad and Gastrodon, is ideal.
• Pokemon such as Dragapult and Hydreigon also greatly appreciate Clefable's ability to wear down walls, as they can often sweep through teams once Pokemon such as Toxapex, Corviknight, Seismitoad, and opposing Clefable have taken sufficient chip damage.

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

• Calm Mind can be run in order to make Clefable less susceptible to other special attackers which commonly run set-up options, such as Rotom-H and Rotom-C whilst also allowing Clefable to much more comfortably take on Dragapult and opposing Clefable. However, offensive variants of Clefable struggle to fit it over one of its coverage options, and defensive variants tend to prefer the added utility from moves like Stealth Rock and Thunder Wave.
• I'd like to see mentions of Encore here, kinda cool option on both defensive and offensive sets since you fuck with general clef answers in fairies / ferro / pex / fires / gastro and is applicable on both sets but is also kinda annoying to fit into a set

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

**Steel-types**: While offensive variants of Clefable can deter Steel-types from switching in, Pokemon such as Excadrill, Aegislash, and Corviknight can still threaten it out if they manage to get in safely. If Clefable is defensive, all three can switch into it freely, although Corvinknight and Aegislash must be wary of Thunder Wave.

*Bulky Fire-types**: Bulky Fire-types are some of the most consistent defensive answers to Clefable, as they fear very little of its coverage options and can often switch into it freely. Pokemon such as Rotom-H can threaten it out by setting up with Nasty Plot, Flareon can threaten decent damage from Flare Blitz, and Centiskorch can threaten it out with Defense drops from Fire Lash.

**Faster Pokemon**: Pokemon such as Dracozolt, Dracovish, and Gengar can easily threaten Clefable out.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Jho, 208105]]
- Quality checked by: [[Jordy, 395754] ], [curiosity, 443485 ], [, ]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]

I dig this. QC 2/3

 

[Jordy]

Jho do the above. Adding on, I'd also like for you to mention Trick with Choice Scarf or Sticky Barb in Other Options.

 

[TONE]

This is just a minor nitpick, but I noticed when you talk about the alternate EV spread to live +2 Hawlucha's Brave Bird, you don't need to run Bold nature as by running 252 HP / 240 Def / 16 SpD Calm, you hit the exact same benchmarks as your spread, so maybe just say you can say "Clefable can run more investment into Defense if it is required to take a +2 Brave Bird from Hawlucha" or something along those lines. Sorry again if it sounds as though I'm nitpicking at a minor thing.