Crawdaunt (Update) (QC: 4/4) (GP: 2/2)

Arkian

this is the state of grace
is a Contributor Alumnus
Skeleton from Vertex

QC Approved 4/4: Alexwolf, jc104, BKC, Pocket
GP Approved 2/2: Fuzznip, Oglemi
Amchecked by: GCSChris
Extremely helpful info given by: Fuzznip
Vertex's Skeleton
[Overview]

<p>Back in the day, Crawdaunt was severely outclassed by numerous offensive Water-types such as Azumarill and Gyarados; however, it has returned to BW OU with a blessing from the Dream World: Adaptability. With this new ability boosting the power of Crawdaunt's STAB moves, it can now practically 2HKO the entire tier. Unfortunately, Crawdaunt has to deal with its atrocious defensive typing, which is compounded by its bad bulk and terrible Speed. While not completely outclassed, Crawdaunt still faces stiff competition from Feraligatr and the aforementioned Gyarados as an offensive Water-type, as they have much higher bulk, Speed, and reliability, despite Adaptability making Crawdaunt stronger than both of them. Although Crawdaunt is outclassed by sturdier and faster physical Water-types, the raw power of Adapatability-boosted Crabhammer in the rain is the main appeal of Crawdaunt in OU.</p>

[SET]
name: Choice Band
move 1: Crabhammer / Waterfall
move 2: Crunch
move 3: Superpower
move 4: Double-Edge
item: Choice Band
ability: Adaptability
nature: Adamant
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>Crawdaunt is one of the most powerful Choice Band users in the tier, with its Crabhammer almost reaching the power of Kyurem-B's Outrage, even over-powering it under rain. Crawdaunt can even break past the most physically bulky walls in OU such as Skarmory and Forretress. However, keep in mind that Crawdaunt is meant to be a hit-and-run attacker due to its low Speed.</p>

<p>Crabhammer is the main move of the set and hits extremely hard (especially in the rain), as almost everything that's not immune to it gets at least 2HKOed. Waterfall can be used over Crabhammer for the improved accuracy, but the reduced power often makes it an inferior option given how Crawdaunt is meant to come in and do as much damage as possible in one hit. Furthermore, the 20% flinch chance&mdash;one of the main reasons to use Waterfall&mdash;will rarely be taken advantage of with Crawdaunt's horrendous Speed. Crunch has excellent neutral coverage alongside Crawdaunt's Water-type STAB, and lets it defeat Jellicent and Celebi, which are immune to or resist Water, respectively. The last two moves are meant to hit specific targets that resist Crawdaunt's STAB attacks. Superpower deals with Ferrothorn and Keldeo, while Double-Edge is for Toxicroak and Breloom.</p>

<p>Here are a few calculations to portray Crawdaunt's power:</p>

<ul="damage calculation">
<li>252+ Atk Choice Band Adaptability Crawdaunt Crabhammer vs. 224 HP / 252+ Def Skarmory in rain: 260-308 (79.51 - 94.18%) -- guaranteed 2HKO</li>
<li>252+ Atk Choice Band Adaptability Crawdaunt Crabhammer vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Forretress in rain: 260-308 (73.44 - 87%) -- guaranteed 2HKO</li>
<li>252+ Atk Choice Band Crawdaunt Superpower vs. 252 HP / 88+ Def Ferrothorn: 272-322 (77.27 - 91.47%) -- guaranteed 2HKO</li>
<li>252+ Atk Choice Band Adaptability Crawdaunt Crunch vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Politoed: 236-278 (61.45 - 72.39%) -- guaranteed 2HKO</li>
<li>252+ Atk Choice Band Adaptability Crawdaunt Crunch vs. 252 HP / 84 Def Gastrodon: 332-392 (77.93 - 92.01%) -- guaranteed 2HKO</li>
<li>252+ Atk Choice Band Adaptability Crawdaunt Crabhammer vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Jirachi in rain: 458-540 (113.36 - 133.66%) -- guaranteed OHKO</li>
</ul>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>The rain that Politoed summons is mandatory for Crawdaunt, as it enables Crawdaunt's Water-type STAB to reach powers at unimaginable levels. Tailwind Tornadus remedies Crawdaunt's Speed issues, and turns Crawdaunt into a terrifying sweeper. Stealth Rock and Spikes support from the likes of Skarmory and Ferrothorn deter Pokemon such as Gyarados and Celebi from switching in, and also helps Crawdaunt potentially score additional OHKOs. Paralysis support from Celebi or Jirachi is appreciated, as it also mitigates Crawdaunt's Speed issues. Furthermore, Celebi and Jirachi are defensive enough to respond to the majority of sweepers that switch into Crawdaunt. Because Crawdaunt is meant to be a wallbreaker, Pokemon who appreciate having walls removed or weakened make for good partners. Some good examples are Double Dance Landorus-T, Swords Dance Scizor, and Mamoswine.</p>

[Other Options]

<p>Dragon Dance looks great on paper, but Crawdaunt is too slow to sweep, even at +1, as Choice Scarf Keldeo and Terrakion still outspeed and OHKO; Gyarados also performs this role <em>much</em> better. Likewise, Swords Dance can be used to differentiate Crawdaunt from Gyarados and Azumarill, but again, its Speed greatly limits the chance Crawdaunt has at a successful sweep. Aerial Ace allows it to hit Breloom, Toxicroak, and Keldeo without having to resort to Double-Edge, although its uses end there and Double-Edge's enhanced power is more appreciated. Life Orb or Splash Plate can be considered, although Choice Band gives Crawdaunt the raw power it needs to maintain a niche in OU.</p>

[Checks and Counters]

<p>Switching into Crawdaunt is often hard given its extraordinary power. Toxicroak, specifically its Toxic stall set, is arguably Crawdaunt's best counter, as it outspeeds, walls Crawdaunt's STAB moves and Superpower, and OHKOes Crawdaunt with Drain Punch. Using relatively fast and strong attackers to OHKO it is usually a good answer as well; however, switching them in safely is the hard part. For example, Lucario can switch in on Crunch and Double-Edge, Keldeo and defensive Breloom switch into either STAB move, and Ferrothorn switches into everything except Superpower. Ninetales can summon the sun, which lowers the power of Crawdaunt's Water-type STAB, allowing Venusaur&mdash;a very popular Pokemon on sun teams&mdash;to set up on Crawdaunt Choice-locked into Crabhammer or Waterfall. Gastrodon, Ferrothorn, Kyurem-B, Kyurem, Jellicent, and Celebi can tank, or outright absorb, Crabhammer or Waterfall and OHKO back with the appropriate attack. Tangrowth, although rare, walls Crawdaunt to hell and back, and it can also OHKO with its Grass-type STAB. Just avoid giving Crawdaunt switch-in opportunities by not using set up baits, such as Blissey, specially defensive Heatran, and Scizor Choice-locked into Pursuit, as much as possible, as Crawdaunt only needs one turn to wreak havoc.</p>
 
Last edited:

Arkian

this is the state of grace
is a Contributor Alumnus
Alright, I have finished the write-up and this is ready for a final look from QC :)
Note: I have taken the parts that Vertex wrote (Overview and SC) and tweaked them to match my style of writing.
 
Great job Rohail17! I made an amcheck.

amcheck said:
Additions
Deletions
Comments

[Overview]

<p>Back in the days, Crawdaunt was severely outclassed by numerous offensive Water-types, such as Azumarill and Gyarados,; however, it has returned to BW OU with a blessing from the Dream World, Adaptability. With this new ability boosting the power of Crawdaunt's STABs, it is now capable of practically 2HKOing the entire tier. I would rephrase this to 'capable of 2HKOing the entire tier' or 'capable of 2HKOing almost the entire tier' , as practically doesn't make as much sense. Unfortunately, Crawdaunt has to deal with its atrocious typing, which is compounded by its bad bulk and terrible Speed. While not completely outclassed, Crawdaunt still faces stiff competition from Feraligatr and the aformentioned Gyarados, as they have much better bulk and Speed. Although Adaptability makes it stronger than both of them. Don't underestimate Crawdaunt, as one misplay from the opponent enables it to blow huge holes into their team.</p>

[SET]
name: Choice Band
move 1: Crabhammer / Waterfall
move 2: Crunch
move 3: Superpower
move 4: Double-Edge
item: Choice Band
ability: Adaptability
nature: Adamant
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>With the power boosts of Choice Band and Adaptability combined together, Crawdaunt turns into one of the strongest physical threats in the tier. Keep in mind that Crawdaunt is meant to be a hit-and-run attacker due to its low Speed. Because to the extreme power behind Crawdaunt's STABs, coverage moves will rarely be used, especially considering each one of Crawdaunt's coverage moves has have a nasty side effect</p>

<p>Crabhammer is the main move of the set and hits extremely hard (especially in the rain), as almost everything that's not immune to it gets at least 2HKOed. Waterfall can be used over Crabhammer for the improved accuracy, but it will miss out on 2HKOing Rotom-W and Dragonite. Besides, the 30% flinch chance&mdash;one of the main reason to use it&mdash;can never be taken advantage of with Crawdaunt's horrendous Speed. Crunch has excellent neutral coverage alongside Crawdaunt's Water-type STAB, as it defeats Jellicent and Celebi, who are immune to or resist said STAB, respectively. The last two moves are meant to hit specific targets which can take Crawdaunt's STABs. Superpower deals with Ferrothorn and Empoleon, while Double-Edge is for Keldeo and Toxicroak. Note that these moves have nasty side-effects that might cause Crawdaunt to switch; Tthe former lowers Crawdaunt's Attack and Defense, while the latter causes recoil damage upon use.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>Politoed is Crawdaunt's best friend, as it boosts its Water-type STAB's power up to unimaginable levels. Tailwind Tornadus really helps Crawdaunt's Speed issues, and makes it a terrifying sweeper. Spikes support from the likes of Skarmory and Ferrothorn deters Pokemon, such as Celebi, from switching in, so having it around is helpful. Swords Dance Scizor is an excellent partner for Crawdaunt, as it can lure and weaken Water-types for Scizor to sweep. Paralysis support from Rotom-W or Ferrothorn is appreciated, as it also mitigates Crawdaunt's Speed issues. Physically defensive Celebi, Latias, and Latios can switch in on Crawdaunt's Fighting- and Electric-type weaknesses, while also hitting the former hard with their Psychic STABs. Be wary though, as Crawdaunt and the aformentioned Pokemon share a Bug-type weakness. Toxicroak can cover that up, as it 4x resists Bug; it can also set up on Fighting- and Grass-types that threaten Crawdaunt.</p>

[Other Options]

<p>Dragon Dance looks great on paper, but Crawdaunt is too slow to sweep, even at +1. Life Orb or Splash Plate can be considered, although Choice Band gives Crawdaunt the raw power it needs to maintain a niche in OU. Crawdaunt has a few other options as far as moves go, although its STABs are all it really needs to sweep.</p>

[Checks and Counters]

<p>Toxicroak, specifically its Toxic stall set, outspeeds, walls its STABs and Superpower, and OHKOes it with Drain Punch.; Although it does need to watch out for Double-Edge. Lucario and Terrakion can come in on Crunch, nab an Attack boost thanks to Justified, and proceed to OHKO with Close Combat. Ninetales can summon the sun, which lowers the power of Crawdaunt's Water-type STAB, allowing Venusaur&mdash;a very popular Pokemon on sun teams&mdash;to set up on Crawdaunt Choice-locked into Crabhammer or Waterfall, and proceed to sweep its the opposing team. 'Its' refers to Venusaur here. Gastrodon, Ferrothorn, Kyurem-B, Kyurem, Jellicent, and Celebi can tank a Waterfall and OHKO back with the appropriate attack. Tangrowth, although rare, walls Crawdaunt to hell and back, and it can also OHKO with its Grass-type STAB. Crawdaunt is very slow, so any decently powerful threat can easily defeat it, just don't directly switch in on it.</p>
 

Arkian

this is the state of grace
is a Contributor Alumnus
I've implemented every change suggested in your amcheck except this: "Note that these moves have nasty side-effects that might cause Crawdaunt to switch; Tthe former lowers Crawdaunt's Attack and Defense, while the latter causes recoil damage upon use." Thanks though ^_^

I've also reworded a few other sections :o
 
Sorry it was supposed to be:
'Note that these moves have nasty side-effects that might cause Crawdaunt to switch; Tthe former lowers Crawdaunt's Attack and Defense, while the latter causes recoil damage upon use.'
you accidentally capitalized the second clause
 

tehy

Banned deucer.
Hey, just reading through this and a few things:

Firstly, you use nasty side effects twice, both times referring to the same things. It's a bit repetitive, and furthermore, you state that Double-edge's recoil will cause you to switch out. Theoretically, this could happen, but it's much more likely that you will be forced out by anything that can take a double-edge or outspeed and KO before this becomes a major issue, so while Superpower might cause you to switch out, I doubt Double-Edge will.

Considering it's a wallbreaker with max speed evs, it's a bit of a stretch to say Crawdaunt can NEVER make use of Waterfall flinches. It easily outspeeds many Skarmory, for example.

In the crunch section, you seem to say that being SE on Jellicent/Celebi means that Crunch has excellent neutral coverage, but those two things aren't too related. Instead, you could just say 'and it hits them SE'.

Physically defensive Celebi isn't even an analysis and is arguably not that good in this meta, so it seems a bit off to mention it as a partner. Specially Defensive celebi is still capable of sponging many fighting-type attacks in any case, especially when compared to Latios or even Latias, which you mention in the same vein

In the other options section, if Crawdaunt has a few other options, why not mention them? At least it'd be nice if you said straight-out they suck and aren't worth using.

Why is Toxic Stall Toxicroak being named specifically? I know it's bulkier physically, but it's also the last set in the analysis and practically nonexistent on the ladder. Maybe just say 'specifically Bulky Toxicroaks" instead?

Jellicent should really not be lumped in with Celebi and the rest of them;if it's got Water Absorb, it doesn't actually tank any hits, and it certainly can't KO back easily (Energy Ball Jellicent, perhaps?).

I would add in the last sentence that it's frail in addition to being slow, and say that any decently powerful and fast threat can defeat it
 

Arkian

this is the state of grace
is a Contributor Alumnus
Hey, just reading through this and a few things:

Firstly, you use nasty side effects twice, both times referring to the same things. It's a bit repetitive, and furthermore, you state that Double-edge's recoil will cause you to switch out. Theoretically, this could happen, but it's much more likely that you will be forced out by anything that can take a double-edge or outspeed and KO before this becomes a major issue, so while Superpower might cause you to switch out, I doubt Double-Edge will.

Reworded so it was a but more clear, and it's okay for me to mention "nasty side effects" twice, as they are very far apart.

Considering it's a wallbreaker with max speed evs, it's a bit of a stretch to say Crawdaunt can NEVER make use of Waterfall flinches. It easily outspeeds many Skarmory, for example.

Done

In the crunch section, you seem to say that being SE on Jellicent/Celebi means that Crunch has excellent neutral coverage, but those two things aren't too related. Instead, you could just say 'and it hits them SE'.

Reworded

Physically defensive Celebi isn't even an analysis and is arguably not that good in this meta, so it seems a bit off to mention it as a partner. Specially Defensive celebi is still capable of sponging many fighting-type attacks in any case, especially when compared to Latios or even Latias, which you mention in the same vein

I just said "Defensive Celebi"

In the other options section, if Crawdaunt has a few other options, why not mention them? At least it'd be nice if you said straight-out they suck and aren't worth using.

Actually, Crawdaunt has very few other options, and mentioning them would be pointless as competent players know to stay away from them. I reworded it though

Why is Toxic Stall Toxicroak being named specifically? I know it's bulkier physically, but it's also the last set in the analysis and practically nonexistent on the ladder. Maybe just say 'specifically Bulky Toxicroaks" instead?

This is because Toxic Stall Toxicroak does the best against it, and it is mentioned that other Toxicroak variants do good to

Jellicent should really not be lumped in with Celebi and the rest of them;if it's got Water Absorb, it doesn't actually tank any hits, and it certainly can't KO back easily (Energy Ball Jellicent, perhaps?).

Reworded, btw Gastro is in the same category

I would add in the last sentence that it's frail in addition to being slow, and say that any decently powerful and fast threat can defeat it

It was already there lol, I've just added the frail part
Thanks tehy, your tips were appreciated ^_^
 
[Overview]

<p>Back in the days, Crawdaunt was severely outclassed by numerous offensive Water-types, such as Azumarill and Gyarados; however, it has returned to BW OU with a blessing from the Dream World: [Colon works better here.] Adaptability. With this new ability boosting the power of Crawdaunt's STABs, it can now practically 2HKO the entire tier. Unfortunately, Crawdaunt has to deal with its atrocious defensive [Water/Dark is pretty good offensively.]typing, which is compounded by its bad bulk and terrible Speed. While not completely outclassed, Crawdaunt still faces stiff competition from Feraligatr Cloyster[Feraligatr's pretty rare in OU (#116), I wouldn't suggest mentioning him because both Feraligatr and Crawdaunt themselves face stiff competition from Gyarados. Perhaps Cloyster will be a better fit as an offensive Water-type?] and the aformentioned Gyarados as an offensive Water-type, as they have much better higher bulk, and Speed, and reliability, despite [I've included "reliability" because that's one of the major reasons why Crawdaunt is so rarely seen. It's an unreliable threat.]. Although Adaptability makes making it stronger than both of them [You need to make sure that even with Adaptability, Crawdaunt is outclassed.]. However, don't underestimate Crawdaunt, as one misplay from the opponent can enable it to blow huge holes into their team.</p>

[SET]
name: Choice Band
move 1: Crabhammer / Waterfall
move 2: Crunch
move 3: Superpower
move 4: Double-Edge
item: Choice Band
ability: Adaptability
nature: Adamant
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>With the power boosts of Choice Band and Adaptability combined together, Crawdaunt turns into one of the strongest physical threats in the tier. Keep in mind that Crawdaunt is meant to be a hit-and-run attacker due to its low Speed. Because to the extreme power behind Crawdaunt's STABs, coverage moves will rarely be used, especially considering the nasty side effects they have.</p>

[This whole paragraph that I've bolded is so awkward to read and I don't feel like it gets any notable messages across properly. I'd highly suggest you rewrite this. I'll give you some suggestions on what you can say here:

1) Include that Crawdaunt is one of the strongest Choice Band users in the tier, with its Crabhammer almost matching the power of Choice Band Kyurem-b's and Haxorus's Outrages, even outpowering both under rain. This is a pretty impressive feat that I think should be included.
2) Mention that it's strong enough to break through even the bulkiest of physical walls, such as Skarmory and Forretress.
3) Then you can mention that, because of Crawdaunt's poor Speed, it is often used with a hit-and-run type of playstyle like you've said.
4) If you want to beef it up more with something else, go for it.


That is all.]

<p>Crabhammer is the main move of the set and hits extremely hard (especially in the rain), as almost everything that's not immune to it gets at least 2HKOed. Waterfall can be used over Crabhammer for the improved accuracy, but the reduced power often makes it an inferior option given how Crawdaunt is meant to come in and do as much damage as possible in one hit. it will miss out on 2HKOing Rotom-W and Dragonite [They are both still 2HKOed with Stealth Rock and if Dragonite is at like 95% HP originally. >_> The sentence I suggested is just an example of what I think you should say. Feel free to alter this to your own writing style.]. Besides Furthermore, the 30% flinch chance&mdash;one of the main reasons to use it Waterfall&mdash;will rarely be taken advantage of with Crawdaunt's horrendous Speed. Crunch has excellent neutral coverage alongside Crawdaunt's Water-type STAB, and lets it defeat Jellicent and Celebi, who are immune to or and resist said STAB, respectively. The last two moves are meant to hit specific targets that resist which can take Crawdaunt's STAB attacks. Superpower deals with Ferrothorn and Empoleon Keldeo [Empoleon's pretty rare, I'd put Keldeo here.], while Double-Edge is for Keldeo and OHKOes Toxicroak and Breloom. Note that these moves have nasty side effects that might cause Crawdaunt to switch; the former lowers Crawdaunt's Attack and Defense, while the latter causes recoil damage upon use. [Honestly, I wouldn't even bring this up. It's clear that these two moves are highly situational, the reader knows that. Mentioning that the side effects might cause Crawdaunt to switch is pointless anyway because anything faster than Crawdaunt, regardless of what attack it is locked into, will force it out. I'd remove it if I were you.]</p>

[One more thing. I think it's a great idea to introduce some damage calculations portraying the sheer power Crawdaunt has against OU's top physical bulwarks. Crawdaunt is an RU Pokemon, and you're writing an OU analysis for it. This is a good idea because it will make Crawdaunt more convincing. Possible Pokemon include: Skarmory, Forretress, Ferrothorn, Reuniclus, Politoed, Gastrodon, and Jirachi.]

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>Politoed is Crawdaunt's best friend, as it boosts its Water-type STAB power up to unimaginable levels. Tailwind Tornadus really helps remedies Crawdaunt's Speed issues and makes turns it into a terrifying sweeper. Stealth Rock and Spikes support from the likes of Skarmory and Ferrothorn deter Pokemon such as Gyarados and Celebi from switching in, so having it around is helpful and also helps Crawdaunt potentially score additional OHKOes. Swords Dance Scizor is an excellent partner for Crawdaunt, as it can lure and weaken Water-types for Scizor to sweep [This is a very random partner. Crawdaunt doesn't need Scizor to lure in Water-types for Crawdaunt to sweep. It hits them hard with Crunch as it is. I would remove.] . Paralysis support from Rotom-W or Ferrothorn is appreciated, as it also mitigates Crawdaunt's Speed issues. Defensive Celebi, Latias, and Latios can switch in on Crawdaunt's Fighting- and Electric-type weaknesses, while also hitting the former hard with their Psychic STABs. Be wary though, as Crawdaunt and the aformentioned Pokemon share a Bug-type weakness. Toxicroak can cover that up, as it 4x resists Bug; it can also set up on Fighting- and Grass-types that threaten Crawdaunt.</p>

[Okay, your [ADDITIONAL COMMENTS] are really lacking here. I don't mean to offend you in any way, but it's a complete mess. You're mentioning the wrong things. Here is what I suggest:

1) Politoed is fine. Keep him there.
2) Stealth Rock and Spikes support is good, keep that.
3) Paralysis support is a decent mention, keep that there. Mention Celebi and Jirachi as specific partners as they are each defensive enough to respond to the majority of sweepers that will switch into Crawdaunt as well. Rotom-W never carries Thunder Wave and rarely Discharge, so remove it.
4) I don't really want you to mention Pokemon that deal with Crawdaunt's weaknesses. It's weaknesses don't even matter given how frail this thing is. Any attack will puncture it. Therefore, Latias, Latios, and Toxicroak are out of the picture.
5) Now, because Crawdaunt is basically like a wallbreaker, you can mention certain Pokemon that appreciate the weakened and/or killed physical walls. For example, you can list Rock Polish Landorus-t as a partner or something like Swords Dance Lucario.


That is all.]

[Other Options]

<p>Dragon Dance looks great on paper, but Crawdaunt is too slow to sweep with it, even at +1 and is heavily outclassed by Gyarados. Life Orb or Splash Plate can be considered, although Choice Band gives Crawdaunt the raw power it needs to maintain a niche in OU. Crawdaunt has very few other options as far as moves go, although its STABs are all it really needs to sweep.</p>

[You need to mention what these other options are, hence the overhead "[Other Options]." Mention these:

1) Aerial Ace for Breloom, Toxicroak, and Keldeo instead of Double-Edge, but being locked into it is generally a bad idea.
2) Swords Dance to differentiate itself from Gyarados, but awfully poor Speed and defenses make it very poor.
3) Brick Break instead of Superpower, but it's a weak move and Superpower has more merit.
4) Return rather than Double-Edge, but Crawdaunt needs the power to actually hurt things.


Don't mention that all it needs are its STABs btw. That isn't necessary here.]

[Checks and Counters]

<p>Toxicroak, specifically its Toxic stall set, outspeeds, walls its Crawdaunt's STABs and Superpower, and OHKOes it with Drain Punch. Although it does need to watch out for Double-Edge [Toxic stall is barely 2HKOed.]. Lucario and Terrakion can come in on Crunch, nab an Attack boost thanks to Justified, and proceed to OHKO with Close Combat. Ninetales can summon the sun, which lowers the power of Crawdaunt's Water-type STAB, allowing Venusaur&mdash;a very popular Pokemon on sun teams&mdash;to set up on Crawdaunt Choice-locked into Crabhammer or Waterfall, and proceed to sweep the opposing team. Gastrodon, Ferrothorn, Kyurem-B, Kyurem, Jellicent, and Celebi can tank, or outright absorb, a Waterfall and OHKO back with the appropriate attack. Tangrowth, although rare, walls Crawdaunt to hell and back, and it can also OHKO with its Grass-type STAB. Crawdaunt is very frail and slow, so any decently powerful threat can easily defeat it, just don't directly switch in on it.</p>

[Again, this is written in a lackluster manner. I want you to make some changes here.

1) Firstly, mention that because of Crawdaunt's extraordinary power, it's often hard to switch in something without taking a beating.
2) Say that one of the best ways to deal with Crawdaunt is by using faster and relatively strong Pokemon to outspeed and OHKO it, while ensuring that the Pokemon isn't switching into anything dangerous. This is where you can mention Lucario and Terrakion switching into Crunch or Double-Edge, Keldeo and Breloom switching into either STAB move, Ferrothorn switching into anything but Superpower, Forretress switching into Crunch or Double-Edge... etc etc etc. You get the idea. Mention bulky Toxicroak as the best Crawdaunt counter out there as well, as it can switch into literally any move, outspeed, and Drain Punch to go back to full.
3) Mentioning Ninetales is way, way out of line here. It's still destroyed by all of Crawdaunt's moves, regardless of sun. Get rid of Venusaur as well.
4) Remove Kyurem-B and Kyurem, they get hit very hard.
5) Remove Tangrowth, it's too rare to deserve a mention. It's also pretty much 2HKOed with some entry hazard support.
6) Overall, just say something like "if you prevent it from switching into something that it outspeeds, then you should be fine given its susceptibility to literally any remotely offensive attack."
Hopefully you understand where I'm coming from with all of this. This analysis needs a lot of work.
 

Arkian

this is the state of grace
is a Contributor Alumnus
Alright, thanks Fuzznip for all your tips and recommendations. Because there are a lot of them, I'm moving this back to the QC stage for a QC member to look at your recommendations (and tell me which ones I should implement and which I shouldn't). After getting another stamp, I'll give it back to GP. Btw, I am not offended by any of these, I would much rather take another week to have a top quality analysis go on-site instead of completing it in a day or two but having lackluster quality. Once again, thanks ^_^

Oh and I shudda just implemented the other moves as many people have been buggin me about them <_< but still, I'll wait for QC input cuz I'm a lazy bum.

Edit: this means I haven't implemented your changes because I'm waiting for QC input on them
 
In that case, you should probably edit the QC: 3/3 in the title so the members don't think it's actually done.
 

Pocket

be the upgraded version of me
is a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Team Rater Alumnusis a Community Leader Alumnusis a Community Contributor Alumnusis a Tiering Contributor Alumnusis a Top Contributor Alumnus
Politoed is Crawdaunt's best friend, as it boosts its Water-type STAB's power up to unimaginable levels.
Emphasize that Politoed's Drizzle support is mandatory for Crawdaunt's success. There's little reason to use Crawdaunt otherwise.

Swords Dance Scizor is an excellent partner for Crawdaunt, as it can lure and weaken Water-types for Scizor to sweep.
You might want to specify this further as SD Acrobatic Scizor, since the usual SD Scizor would have a hard time with Jellicent and Tentacruel.

Dragon Dance looks great on paper, but Crawdaunt is too slow to sweep, even at +1.
Elaborate by stating that Terrakion and Keldeo are faster than +1 Crawdaunt even without a Scarf.

QC APPROVED (4/4) OK, i'll have to check it later
 
Last edited:

Arkian

this is the state of grace
is a Contributor Alumnus
Emphasize that Politoed's Drizzle support is mandatory for Crawdaunt's success. There's little reason to use Crawdaunt otherwise.

You might want to specify this further as SD Acrobatic Scizor, since the usual SD Scizor would have a hard time with Jellicent and Tentacruel.

Elaborate by stating that Terrakion and Keldeo are faster than +1 Crawdaunt even without a Scarf.

QC APPROVED (4/4)
Implemented but, you still haven't answered my question: How many of Fuzznip's recommendations should I implement (and what are they obv.)?
 

Pocket

be the upgraded version of me
is a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Team Rater Alumnusis a Community Leader Alumnusis a Community Contributor Alumnusis a Tiering Contributor Alumnusis a Top Contributor Alumnus
Overview

Keep Feraligatr - people have seen it in action during OST and SPL finals; Gatr is relevant in OU

End the Overview, stating, "although Crawdaunt is outclassed by much sturdier and faster physical Water-types of OU, the raw power from Adapatability-boosted Waterfall in the rain is the main appeal of Crawdaunt in OU.

Choice Band Set Comments

I agree with Fuzznip's suggestions, including adding convincing damage calcs of Crawdaunt's raw power.

Waterfall is 20% flinch chance

Additional Comments

I agree with all of Fuzznip suggestions, especially #5. You can still keep SD Scizor (non-Acrobatic this time) by framing it as a sweeper that benefits from the removal of bulky Water-types. Double Dance Landorus-T / Mamoswine / Garchomp also appreciates Crawdaunt's wall-breaking capabilities as well. Same goes for offensive Water-types like Keldeo and Starmie (although, Crawdaunt doesn't lure special-sponges like Blissey / Chansey, it can use Starmie as a special sponge-lure for a free switch-in).

Other Options

I would add all but Brick Break. You can state how Swords Dance can come in handy when the opponent's Blissey / Heatran / etc uses Protect to scout Crawdaunt's moves, but it'll rarely have an opportunity to use it otherwise.

Checks and Counters

1) yes

2) okay, but I'd probably remove Terrakion from that list of example, cuz it sounds too ballsy

3) nah, leave Sun - Ninetales shouldn't be switching into Crawdaunt, but Sun definitely kills Crawdaunt's nuking capabilities - still need to watch out for Crunch, though

4) Keep Kyurem(-B) imo, it's still one of the better answers to Crawdaunt

5) Keep Tangrowth, too; it's still decent in OU to be a pertinent suggestion

6) Okay. Add that the best way to neutralize Crawdaunt is to not give it any free opportunities to switch in or attack by avoiding using set-up bait Pokemon, such as specially-defensive Heatran / Blissey / Celebi without STAB Grass / Scizor locked into Pursuit, as much as possible. This is common sense, but it's particularly devastating for a glasscannon like Crawdaunt.
 

Arkian

this is the state of grace
is a Contributor Alumnus
Finally implemented everything; thanks Pocket, and especially Fuzznip.

This is ready for GP again ^_^
 
Sweet!

Additions.
Deletions.
Comments.

[Overview]

<p>Back in the days, Crawdaunt was severely outclassed by numerous offensive Water-types, such as Azumarill and Gyarados; however, it has returned to BW OU with a blessing from the Dream World: Adaptability. With this new ability boosting the power of Crawdaunt's STAB moves [I personally hate the term 'STABs' because it doesn't really make sense if you think about it, but you can keep it if you want.], it can now practically 2HKO the entire tier. Unfortunately, Crawdaunt still has to deal with its atrocious defensive typing, which is compounded by its bad bulk and terrible Speed. While not completely outclassed, Crawdaunt still faces stiff competition from Feraligatr and the aforementioned Gyarados as an offensive Water-type, as they have much higher bulk, Speed, and reliability, despite Adaptability making it Crawdaunt stronger than both of them. Although Crawdaunt is outclassed by sturdier and faster physical Water-types, the raw power from of Adapatability-boosted Waterfall Crabhammer [I would go with Crabhammer because that separates it even further than other Water-types and hits mad hard under rain.] in the rain is the main appeal of Crawdaunt in OU.</p>

[SET]
name: Choice Band
move 1: Crabhammer / Waterfall
move 2: Crunch
move 3: Superpower
move 4: Double-Edge
item: Choice Band
ability: Adaptability
nature: Adamant
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>Crawdaunt is one of the most powerful Choice Band users in the tier, with its Crabhammer almost reaching the power of Kyurem-B's Choice Band Outrage, even out-powering it under rain [Crabhammer isn't as strong as Kyurem-B's CB Outrage, but close to it. However, it is under rain.]. It Crawdaunt can even break past the most bulky of physical walls in OU, such as Skarmory and Forretress. However, keep in mind that Crawdaunt is meant to be a hit-and-run attacker due to its low Speed and frailty. Here are a few calculations to portray Crawdaunt's power:</p>

<ul>
<li>252+ Atk Choice Band Adaptability Crawdaunt Crabhammer vs. 224 HP / 252+ Def Skarmory in rain: 260-308 (79.51 - 94.18%) -- guaranteed 2HKO</li>
<li>252+ Atk Choice Band Adaptability Crawdaunt Crabhammer vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Forretress in rain: 260-308 (73.44 - 87%) -- guaranteed 2HKO</li>
<li>252+ Atk Choice Band Crawdaunt Superpower vs. 252 HP / 88+ Def Ferrothorn: 272-322 (77.27 - 91.47%) -- guaranteed 2HKO</li>
<li>252+ Atk Choice Band Adaptability Crawdaunt Crunch vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Politoed: 236-278 (61.45 - 72.39%) -- guaranteed 2HKO</li>
<li>252+ Atk Choice Band Adaptability Crawdaunt Crunch vs. 252 HP / 84 Def Gastrodon: 332-392 (77.93 - 92.01%) -- guaranteed 2HKO</li>
<li>252+ Atk Choice Band Adaptability Crawdaunt Crabhammer vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Jirachi in rain: 458-540 (113.36 - 133.66%) -- guaranteed OHKO</li>
</ul>


[You should probably move the bolded parts beneath the paragraph where you talk about Crawdaunt's moves below. It doesn't make sense to look at the power of Crawdaunt's moves without talking about them first.]

<p>Crabhammer is the main move of the set and hits extremely hard (especially in the rain), as almost everything that's not immune to it gets at least 2HKOed. Waterfall can be used over Crabhammer for the improved accuracy, but the reduced power often makes it an inferior option given how Crawdaunt is meant to come in and do as much damage as possible in one hit. Futhermore, the 20% flinch chance&mdash;one of the main reasons to use it Waterfall&mdash;will rarely be taken advantage of with Crawdaunt's horrendous Speed. Crunch has excellent neutral coverage alongside Crawdaunt's Water-type STAB move, and lets it defeat Jellicent and Celebi, who which [You used "everything" previously rather than "everyone," so you're referring to Pokemon as objects in this analysis.] are immune to or resist said STAB Water, respectively. The last two moves are meant to hit specific targets that resist Crawdaunt's STAB attacks. Superpower deals with Ferrothorn and Keldeo, while Double-Edge is for Toxicroak and Breloom.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>The rain that Politoed summons is mandatory for Crawduant, as it enables Crawdaunt's Water-type STAB to reach powers at unimaginable levels. Tailwind Tornadus remedies Crawdaunt's Speed issues, and turns it Crawdaunt into a terrifying sweeper. Stealth Rock and Spikes support from the likes of Skarmory and Ferrothorn deter Pokemon such as Gyarados and Celebi from switching in, and also helps Crawdaunt potentially score additional OHKOs. Paralysis support from Celebi or Jirachi is appreciated, as it also mitigates Crawdaunt's Speed issues. Furthermore, Celebi and Jirachi are defensive enough to respond to the majority or sweepers that switch into Crawdaunt. Because Crawdaunt is meant to be a wallbreaker, Pokemon who appreciate having walls removed or weakened make for good partners. Some good examples are Double Dance Landorus-T, Swords Dance Scizor, and Mamoswine.</p>

[Other Options]

<p>Dragon Dance looks great on paper, but Crawdaunt is too slow to sweep, even at +1, as Choice Scarf Keldeo and Terrakion still outspeed and OHKO; and Gyarados also performs this role <em>much</em> better. Likewise, Swords Dance can be used to differentiate Crawdaunt from Gyarados and Azumarill, but again, its Speed greatly limits the chance Crawdaunt has at a successful sweep. Aerial Ace allows it to hit Breloom, Toxicroak, and Keldeo without having to resort to Double-Edge, although its uses end there and Double-Edge's enhanced power is more appreciated. Life Orb or Splash Plate can be considered, although Choice Band gives Crawdaunt the raw power it needs to maintain a niche in OU.</p>

[Checks and Counters]

<p>Switching into Crawdaunt is often hard given its extraordinary power. Toxicroak, specifically its Toxic stall set, is arguably Crawdaunt's best counter, as it outspeeds, walls its Crawdaunt's STAB moves and Superpower, and OHKOes Crawdaunt with Drain Punch. Using relatively fast and strong attackers to OHKO it is usually a good answer as well; however, switching them in safely is the hard part. For example, Lucario can switch in on Crunch and Double-Edge, Keldeo and Breloom can switch into either STAB attack, and Ferrothorn switches into everything except Superpower. Ninetales can summon the sun, which lowers the power of Crawdaunt's Water-type STAB, allowing Venusaur&mdash;a very popular Pokemon on sun teams&mdash;to set up on Crawdaunt Choice-locked into Crabhammer or Waterfall. Gastrodon, Ferrothorn, Kyurem-B, Kyurem, Jellicent, and Celebi can tank, or outright absorb, a Crabhammer or Waterfall and OHKO back with the appropriate attack. Tangrowth, although rare, walls Crawdaunt to hell and back, and it can also OHKO with its Grass-type STAB. Just avoid giving Crawdaunt switch-in opportunities by not using set up baits, such as Blissey, specially defensive Heatran, and Scizor Choice-locked into Pursuit, as much as possible, as Crawdaunt only needs one turn to wreak havoc.</p>
This is miles ahead of the last analysis. Great job, Rohail.

GP 1/2
 

Pocket

be the upgraded version of me
is a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Team Rater Alumnusis a Community Leader Alumnusis a Community Contributor Alumnusis a Tiering Contributor Alumnusis a Top Contributor Alumnus
Overview said:
Although Crawdaunt is outclassed by sturdier and faster physical Water-types, the raw power from Adapatability-boosted Waterfall in the rain is the main appeal of Crawdaunt in OU.
Change Waterfall to Crabhammer

Remove Breloom, or specify that Breloom must be physically-defensive @ Poison Heal to tank a Rain-boosted CB Crabhammer. The standard offensive Breloom wont survive that hit :[

Please make those changes

QC APPROVED (4/4)
 

Oglemi

Borf
is a Top Contributoris a Tournament Director Alumnusis a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Community Contributor Alumnusis a Researcher Alumnusis a Tiering Contributor Alumnusis a Top Smogon Media Contributor Alumnusis an Administrator Alumnusis a Top Dedicated Tournament Host Alumnus
add
remove
comments


[Overview]

<p>Back in the day, Crawdaunt was severely outclassed by numerous offensive Water-types such as Azumarill and Gyarados; however, it has returned to BW OU with a blessing from the Dream World: Adaptability. With this new ability boosting the power of Crawdaunt's STAB moves, it can now practically 2HKO the entire tier. Unfortunately, Crawdaunt has to deal with its atrocious defensive typing, which is compounded by its bad bulk and terrible Speed. While not completely outclassed, Crawdaunt still faces stiff competition from Feraligatr and the aforementioned Gyarados as an offensive Water-type, as they have much higher bulk, Speed, and reliability, despite Adaptability making Crawdaunt stronger than both of them. Although Crawdaunt is outclassed by sturdier and faster physical Water-types, the raw power of Adaptability-boosted Crabhammer in the rain is the main appeal of Crawdaunt in OU.</p>

[SET]
name: Choice Band
move 1: Crabhammer / Waterfall
move 2: Crunch
move 3: Superpower
move 4: Double-Edge
item: Choice Band
ability: Adaptability
nature: Adamant
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>Crawdaunt is one of the most powerful Choice Band users in the tier, with its Crabhammer almost reaching the power of Kyurem-B's Outrage, even over-powering it under rain. Crawdaunt can even break past the most physically bulky walls in OU such as Skarmory and Forretress. However, keep in mind that Crawdaunt is meant to be a hit-and-run attacker due to its low Speed.</p>

<p>Crabhammer is the main move of the set and hits extremely hard (especially in the rain), as almost everything that's not immune to it gets at least 2HKOed. Waterfall can be used over Crabhammer for the improved accuracy, but the reduced power often makes it an inferior option given how Crawdaunt is meant to come in and do as much damage as possible in one hit. Furthermore, the 20% flinch chance&mdash;one of the main reasons to use Waterfall&mdash;will rarely be taken advantage of with Crawdaunt's horrendous Speed. Crunch has excellent neutral coverage alongside Crawdaunt's Water-type STAB, and lets it defeat Jellicent and Celebi, which are immune to or resist Water, respectively. The last two moves are meant to hit specific targets that resist Crawdaunt's STAB attacks. Superpower deals with Ferrothorn and Keldeo, while Double-Edge is for Toxicroak and Breloom.</p>

<p>Here are a few calculations to portray Crawdaunt's power:</p>

<ul="damage_calculation">
<li>252+ Atk Choice Band Adaptability Crawdaunt Crabhammer vs. 224 HP / 252+ Def Skarmory in rain: 260-308 (79.51 - 94.18%) -- guaranteed 2HKO</li>
<li>252+ Atk Choice Band Adaptability Crawdaunt Crabhammer vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Forretress in rain: 260-308 (73.44 - 87%) -- guaranteed 2HKO</li>
<li>252+ Atk Choice Band Crawdaunt Superpower vs. 252 HP / 88+ Def Ferrothorn: 272-322 (77.27 - 91.47%) -- guaranteed 2HKO</li>
<li>252+ Atk Choice Band Adaptability Crawdaunt Crunch vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Politoed: 236-278 (61.45 - 72.39%) -- guaranteed 2HKO</li>
<li>252+ Atk Choice Band Adaptability Crawdaunt Crunch vs. 252 HP / 84 Def Gastrodon: 332-392 (77.93 - 92.01%) -- guaranteed 2HKO</li>
<li>252+ Atk Choice Band Adaptability Crawdaunt Crabhammer vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Jirachi in rain: 458-540 (113.36 - 133.66%) -- guaranteed OHKO</li>
</ul>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>The rain that Politoed summons is mandatory for Crawdaunt, as it enables Crawdaunt's Water-type STAB to reach powers at unimaginable levels. Tailwind Tornadus remedies Crawdaunt's Speed issues, and turns Crawdaunt into a terrifying sweeper. Stealth Rock and Spikes support from the likes of Skarmory and Ferrothorn deter Pokemon such as Gyarados and Celebi from switching in, and also helps Crawdaunt potentially score additional OHKOs. Paralysis support from Celebi or Jirachi is appreciated, as it also mitigates Crawdaunt's Speed issues. Furthermore, Celebi and Jirachi are defensive enough to respond to the majority of sweepers that switch into Crawdaunt. Because Crawdaunt is meant to be a wallbreaker, Pokemon who appreciate having walls removed or weakened make for good partners. Some good examples are Double Dance Landorus-T, Swords Dance Scizor, and Mamoswine.</p>

[Other Options]

<p>Dragon Dance looks great on paper, but Crawdaunt is too slow to sweep, even at +1, as Choice Scarf Keldeo and Terrakion still outspeed and OHKO; Gyarados also performs this role <em>much</em> better. Likewise, Swords Dance can be used to differentiate Crawdaunt from Gyarados and Azumarill, but again, its Speed greatly limits the chance Crawdaunt has at a successful sweep. Aerial Ace allows it to hit Breloom, Toxicroak, and Keldeo without having to resort to Double-Edge, although its uses end there and Double-Edge's enhanced power is more appreciated. Life Orb or Splash Plate can be considered, although Choice Band gives Crawdaunt the raw power it needs to maintain a niche in OU.</p>

[Checks and Counters]

<p>Switching into Crawdaunt is often hard given its extraordinary power. Toxicroak, specifically its Toxic stall set, is arguably Crawdaunt's best counter, as it outspeeds, walls Crawdaunt's STAB moves and Superpower, and OHKOes Crawdaunt with Drain Punch. Using relatively fast and strong attackers to OHKO it is usually a good answer as well; however, switching them in safely is the hard part. For example, Lucario can switch in on Crunch and Double-Edge, Keldeo and defensive Breloom switch into either STAB move, and Ferrothorn switches into everything except Superpower. Ninetales can summon the sun, which lowers the power of Crawdaunt's Water-type STAB, allowing Venusaur&mdash;a very popular Pokemon on sun teams&mdash;to set up on Crawdaunt Choice-locked into Crabhammer or Waterfall. Gastrodon, Ferrothorn, Kyurem-B, Kyurem, Jellicent, and Celebi can tank, or outright absorb, Crabhammer or Waterfall and OHKO back with the appropriate attack. Tangrowth, although rare, walls Crawdaunt to hell and back, and it can also OHKO with its Grass-type STAB. Just avoid giving Crawdaunt switch-in opportunities by not using set up baits, such as Blissey, specially defensive Heatran, and Scizor Choice-locked into Pursuit, as much as possible, as Crawdaunt only needs one turn to wreak havoc.</p>


GP Approved 2/2
 

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

Top