Originally, I was just going to update the analysis as per the new team comments project, but I realised that the existing analysis is still mostly stuck in early D/P, when everything was in the context of ADV. I decided to rewrite it with Earthworm's help both critically and in testing. ^_^
Major Changes
-Set comments, Opinion, Counters, and Other Options rewritten (not that there was anything to add there heh)
-Team comments added in
-Reflect is now in Other Options and the 'Pseudo-Pass' set was removed
-Ice Beam put as the primary option over Rest in non-stalk sets and Roar put as the primary option in stalk set
-Re-ordered sets
-Subcune entirely redone
xD;;
http://smogon.com/dp/pokemon/suicune/
[SET]
name: Crocune
move 1: Surf
move 2: Calm Mind
move 3: Rest
move 4: Sleep Talk
item: Leftovers
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Crocune combines the old Calm Mind Shuffle set with the Sleep Talker, fixing the former's problems with being useless when asleep and the latter's lack of a setup move, but at the cost of having only one move, Surf. Crocune can take out phazers (namely, Hippowdon and Skarmory) when asleep if Sleep Talk selects Surf and it has several CMs under its belt. This Suicune is not an immediate threat, but can be problematic for many Pokémon, and is a sturdy wall, with EVs placed in HP and Defense to allow it to take physical hits as well.</p>
<p>Crocune is useless against Vaporeon, which endlessly walls any Suicune lacking HP Electric with Water Absorb and special bulk; although Suicune can PP stall Vaporeon with Pressure, unless it is the last Pokémon, this is undesirable. Any team carrying Crocune will need a consistent and reliable Vaporeon counter. Jolteon and Rotom-A work particularly well in tandem with Suicune, each with their own distinct advantages. Jolteon can absorb any Electric attacks aimed at Suicune and easily take out Vaporeon and other bulky waters, as well as Dragon-types, such as Salamence, which are otherwise free to set up on this set. Rotom-A is similarly sturdy to Suicune and can cripple walls with Trick, eliminate Water-types with STAB Thunderbolt, and stop the sweep of threatening sweepers with Will-O-Wisp or Thunder Wave. It can also set up dual screens with ease, giving Suicune some security while it sets up its first CMs and is most vulnerable.</p>
<p>Grass-types, especially Celebi, also deal well with Crocune. Offensive Celebi has a high chance of OHKOing Suicune with Leaf Storm (assuming Stealth Rock) and will always 2HKO. Both defensive and offensive variants can set up their own CMs, Leech Seed Celebi beats it solidly, and Choiced Celebi nearly always carry Trick, allowing them to render Crocune effectively useless. Rotom-A can take out Celebi earlier in the match (although it can't come in on Leaf Storm) with Shadow Ball, and Scizor handles Celebi well with STAB CB U-turn and/or Pursuit, although it has to beware of HP Fire. Tyranitar, although it has to avoid heavily boosted Grass Knots and powerful Leaf Storms, and the occasional Scarf U-turn, also ruins Celebi. Even Reflect Celebi dislikes Crunch coming from Choice Band Tyranitar, with a good chance of a 2HKO with Stealth Rock up. The latter two Pokémon also cause problems for Blissey.</p>
<p>Heatran has little problem with Celebi (although it has to watch out for Earth Power), and works well with Celebi and Suicune together. Together, they form a strong defensive combination based on good defenses and complementary typing. Another good Grass-type to run with Suicune is Roserade, which resists both types Suicune is weak against and is a decent special wall. It is also immune to Leech Seed and can set up (and absorb) Toxic Spikes, which are highly useful and help Suicune stall.</p>
[SET]
name: Offensive Suicune
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Surf / Hydro Pump
move 3: Ice Beam
move 4: Hidden Power Electric
item: Life Orb
nature: Timid / Modest
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Suicune functions well as a tank, but an often overlooked role it can play is offensive; not only does it have the element of surprise, it can sweep easily enough with decent Speed, a high base 90 Special Attack, and almost impeccable coverage with Surf, Ice Beam, and Hidden Power Electric.</p>
<p>After a single Calm Mind, Suicune can become a powerful sweeper given its superb Special Attack and wide coverage of its move set. Surf is generic STAB. However, Hydro Pump can be used for the higher base power, although the low PP and reduced accuracy is disappointing. Finally, the combination of Ice Beam and Hidden Power Electric gives a pseudo-BoltBeam and with Surf hits everything in the game for at least neutral damage, bar Shedinja and Lanturn. Most Suicune carry either Surf and Ice Beam or Surf and Hidden Power Electric which leaves quite a few Pokemon able to wall Suicune and set themselves up. However, when all three of these moves are utilized, a solid counter, outside of Blissey, is hard to come by. For example, after a Calm Mind, Timid Suicune with Life Orb can do 41% - 49% to 188 HP / 0 SpD Bold Vaporeon and can 2HKO 100% of the time if Modest.</p>
<p>The given EVs are common for a special sweeper. However, if a bulkier Suicune is desired, Leftovers can be used over Life Orb with an EV spread of 172 HP / 120 SpA / 216 Spe with a Timid nature. Timid and 216 Speed EVs let Suicune outrun all Pokemon with base 80 Speed and below.</p>
<p>As with all Life Orbers, switching in on powerful attacks is not advisable, due to Suicune whittling away 10% of its HP every turn it attacks; with Sandstorm and entry hazards, this Suicune's main problem is that it dies too fast. Wishers such as Latias and Blissey are again useful here, and Scizor becomes even more useful, especially as the main counter to this set is Blissey. Most things which switch in on CB U-turn—Gyarados, defensive Zapdos, Heatran, and other Steel-types—will switch out of Suicune, giving it a free Calm Mind. If defensive Zapdos chooses not to switch, Suicune can take it out with Ice Beam. The only Zapdos both Suicune and Scizor have problems with is Timid Life Orb.</p>
<p>Although Suicune is by no means slow, it lacks the raw Speed most sweepers have, so it helps to take those out either with another sweeper or on a predicted switch. Knowledge of the opponent's team is essential, so scouting with U-turners (again, Scizor or Flygon help here) is a useful accompanying strategy.</p>
[SET]
name: Subcune
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Calm Mind
move 3: Surf
move 4: Ice Beam
item: Leftovers
nature: Timid
evs: 252 HP / 64 SpA / 192 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>There are two ways to play Subcune: defensively and offensively. Both have their own pros and cons, but both are equally useful. Offensive Subcune needs less Calm Minds to sweep, but wishes it had the bulk available to the defensive version and further struggles to beat Blissey, a huge advantage the defensive version has over offensive. Defensive runs the spread listed, while the offensive spread is 44 HP / 252 SpA / 216 Spe. The offensive spread utilizes max Special Attack for more immediate power, with 192 Speed for outpacing Jolly Mamoswine and the remainder invested in HP. Bring Suicune in on something it can force out and set up a Substitute. From there, you can deal with the opponent's Suicune answer accordingly, setting up or attacking based on the situation.</p>
<p>These situations should illustrate the differences between the two. With 252 HP, Subcune sets up 404 HP Substitutes, enabling it to beat Seismic Toss Blissey much more easily. Offensive, however, will have its Substitutes broken by Seismic Toss, and will get less CMs. Both sets require Toxic Spikes and Sandstorm to overcome Blissey, or they will lose out regardless. Gyarados sets up on the defensive Subcune with relative ease, with +1 Ice Beam only 3HKOing it, assuming Stealth Rock. Offensive, however, 2HKOs with the same amount of Calm Minds and SR in play, and so Gyarados cannot really do much against it. Offensive +1 Subcune is guaranteed a 2HKO on 252/220 Zapdos, and while defensive Subcune has a chance just over 80% of achieving that same 2HKO, it requires Stealth Rock to accomplish this as well.</p>
<p>Both Suicune will welcome Wish support, as Substitutes, residual damage, and damage taken while switching in on an attacking move all wear it quickly enough, and without Wish, it cannot come in and repeatedly attempt to seep. Defensive Subcune needs Stealth Rock even more than its offensive counterpart, and both require Toxic Spikes to be set up to enable them to beat Blissey. As always, Roserade makes a good partner for Suicune with its resistances, ability to remove the Toxic Spikes that bother Suicune itself, and capability to get two layers of Toxic Spikes. Scizor can take advantage of opportunities such as U-turning on Salamence and then frightening it out with the threat of Ice Beam, giving it the free turn it desperately wants.</p>
<p>Whether you pick offensive or defensive is dependent on your team. Offensive Suicune is essentially useless on a defensive team, and defensive Suicune slows down the momentum of an offensive team and takes too long to set up. Both are as devastating as each other if played right, however.</p>
<p>On an offensive team, Pokémon like Scizor and Salamence will appreciate having Gyarados and Dragon-types removed respectively, opening up a sweep for them, and can get rid of Pokémon like Tyranitar. Celebi and Heatran can utilize their typing synergy with Suicune on any kind of team, as they can come in on each other's weaknesses. On a defensive team, surround the enemy with entry hazards, as without them, Suicune cannot get the KOs it needs at first.</p>
<p>This set has problems with phazers, especially Roar Vaporeon and Perish Song Celebi. Having Pokémon that can beat them (physical hard-hitters for Vaporeon, Heatran and Scizor for Celebi provided it isn't carrying Earth Power/Hidden Power Fire respectively) is essential or Suicune will be repeatedly forced out and die from being worn down by residual damage.</p>
[SET]
name: Calm Mind Shuffle
move 1: Surf
move 2: Calm Mind
move 3: Roar
move 4: Ice Beam / Hidden Power Electric / Rest
item: Leftovers
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpA
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>With excellent defenses and the ability to clean up lategame when counters are eliminated, Suicune still walls decently and can still set up for a sweep, although its capacity to live forever has been greatly lessened since ADV. With entry hazard support, Suicune can take several hits and wear the opponent's team down with residual damage, making it easier for other teammates to come in and clean up, or facilitate its own sweep. Whenever a good opportunity occurs for Suicune to Calm Mind, it should take it; particularly when without Rest, Suicune should be brought in on something afraid of it after a teammate is knocked out, and CM or attack/Roar based on what is known of the opponent's team.</p>
<p>The EVs are placed fully in HP and Defense, as Suicune has no way of boosting its Defense and causing most people to hit it heavily with physical attackers, and HP allows it to survive longer in general.</p>
<p>The first three moves are necessary to this set, but the fourth is optional, and the choice of which to use is important. Ice Beam is the primary option for the ability to OHKO Dragons, although Hidden Power Electric gives it a way to hit other Water-types. More importantly, it hits Gyarados, which resists Water, is neutral to Ice, and has good Special Defense (and occasionally carries Taunt, which shuts this Suicune down). Rest can be used to prolong Suicune's survival, although leaving Suicune completely vulnerable for two turns is no longer safe at all, as many Pokémon are capable of eliminating it in two turns.</p>
<p>Although the choice of move changes how this set is played to a degree, universally it requires good support from its teammates. Suicune should be paired with Spikes, Toxic Spikes, and Stealth Rock to capitalize on the potential of Roar. As it lacks resists and is worn down quickly enough, Wish support—for example, from Blissey, Latias, or Jirachi—is extremely important, allowing Suicune to come in multiple times. If you choose to use Rest, Blissey is again a good option with Aromatherapy; leaving Suicune asleep all that time can be disastrous. A spinner helps with non-Rest to allow it to switch in over and over and get rid of Toxic Spikes, which are particularly detrimental.</p>
<p>Ice Beam is the best option, as mentioned, for its ability to OHKO most Dragon-types, which are the biggest physical (and special) threats to Suicune and its teammates. However, if you already have a check for them and need a way to deal with Gyarados, Hidden Power Electric is viable. If you use Hidden Power Electric, Latias becomes even more desirable, with its ability to Wish and deal with non-Dragon Danced Salamence (keep in mind that it cannot switch into any Dragon attacks). If you use Ice Beam, you should have some way of removing other bulky Waters which resist both attacks, although they will be worn down by entry hazards and Roaring anyway. Examples of good Grass-type partners for Suicune are Celebi and Roserade, especially combined with Heatran for complementary resistances. Physically bulky Steel-types are also useful to cover the powerful sweepers often employed to destroy Suicune. One of Suicune's main problems is that it has few resistances and takes damage switching in, so an accompanying Choice Band Scizor with U-turn not only softens up the opponent but provides a method of bringing in Suicune unscathed.</p>
[SET]
name: Sleep Talk
move 1: Rest
move 2: Sleep Talk
move 3: Surf
move 4: Roar / Ice Beam / Hidden Power Electric
item: Leftovers
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>The main problem with Calm Mind Shuffle is that it lacks recovery and the ability to rid itself of status. This set plays rather differently, fixing that issue at the expense of losing Calm Mind. The choice of attacks and EV allocation are the same, but it is now easier to bring Suicune in. The only other real difference other than more special vulnerability is that Roar is more useful than a second attack for forcing out Pokémon trying to set up, or that Suicune cannot take repeated assaults from.</p>
<p>Although some partners are still useful as ever, such as Celebi and Heatran, Wishers and spinners are no longer important, as Suicune can heal itself. Spikers are still very important, especially if you use Roar. Partnering this Suicune should be more based upon the ability to cover weaknesses and wall as a combination.</p>
[Team Options]
<p>Both offensive and defensive Suicune will appreciate having Stealth Rock and/or Spikes set up. Defensive Suicune particularly needs Toxic Spikes support. As mentioned several times in the analysis, Roserade makes a useful partner to Suicune, as it can remove Toxic Spikes, set them up, and hurt any bulky waters that would be in the way. Celebi and Heatran make a good trio with Suicune based on resistances and their ability to remove certain threats (such as other Celebi). Rotom-A can cripple strong physical attackers with Will-O-Wisp and Blissey with Trick, as well as switch in on incoming Explosions.</p>
<p>Offensively, Scizor works well, denting enemies with CB U-turn and bringing in Suicune unscathed, as well as luring in Heatran and Gyarados. Symbiotically, Suicune chases out Salamence and Gyarados, and can handle many types of Zapdos, opening up a sweep for Scizor and various Fighting-types (e.g. Infernape, Lucario, and Heracross). If you want to use Suicune as a sweeper, pair it with something fast that can scout your opponent's team, such as Scarf Flygon or Infernape with U-turn; early-game, its main use is to open holes for stronger and faster party members to sweep, and it accomplishes this most successfully with Blissey gone.</p>
[Other Options]
<p>Offensively, Suicune gets nothing else of note but Shadow Ball and Extrasensory, both of which are only ever worth using in extremely narrow circumstances. As far as support options go, Reflect and Mirror Coat are the most useful, although rarely seen, as Suicune generally has better things to do with its precious moveslots. It can run Toxic and Protect, although that is probably better left off to Vaporeon, which has Wish. The only other thing it can really make use of is Tailwind, although Tailwind does not last enough time to make it worthwhile.</p>
[EVs]
<p>Suicune is generally a defensive Pokémon, and the EV spreads reflect this. 252 HP is necessary on all defensive sets, usually accompanied by 252 Def, as Calm Mind boosts Suicune's plentiful SpD. More offensive sets will want an investment in Special Attack and Speed to beat Jolly Tyranitar, Zapdos, and other Pokémon who run 244 Speed.</p>
[Opinion]
<p>Suicune was once the most fearsome tank, but in the transition from ADV to D/P, more powerful attackers and more powerful boosting items were introduced, diminishing Suicune's usefulness. Although it can hit hard with a Calm Mind or two, it has been mostly left behind in the hard-hitting, fast-paced physical metagame of today. However, that is not to say that Suicune isn't still excellent both offensively and defensively, and it manages to stay consistently OU. While other Pokémon perform its main tasks differently, Suicune is still a good addition to a defensive team in particular.</p>
[Counters]
<p>In general, Suicune dislikes boosted physical attacks. Sets lacking HP Electric are walled effortlessly by Water Absorbers, especially Vaporeon, although one-on-one Suicune can PP stall it. Also, provided Suicune lacks Roar and Rest, Blissey often beats Suicune. If you are confident the Suicune doesn't have HP Electric, Gyarados can set up on it; if it doesn't have Ice Beam, Dragon-types can come in and get to work. Celebi can stop a sweep with Perish Song, cripple any efforts to wall with Leech Seed, and dent Suicune severely with its STAB Grass moves. Roserade can do the same, as well as set up Toxic Spikes, the bane of Suicune's existence. Rest sets without Sleep Talk can be eliminated easily enough by anything powerful, such as Choice Band Tyranitar; wear it down and then take it out when it is forced to Rest. Although Latias has to be careful of Roar and Ice Beam, it can CM up on Suicune as well, and Recover away damage incurred. Jolteon, faster Zapdos (Roost), and Raikou frighten Suicune away as well. Defensive Suicune can be shut down by Tricking it or Exploding on it; offensive Suicune is stopped by status or generally any faster sweeper.</p>
Major Changes
-Set comments, Opinion, Counters, and Other Options rewritten (not that there was anything to add there heh)
-Team comments added in
-Reflect is now in Other Options and the 'Pseudo-Pass' set was removed
-Ice Beam put as the primary option over Rest in non-stalk sets and Roar put as the primary option in stalk set
-Re-ordered sets
-Subcune entirely redone
http://smogon.com/dp/pokemon/suicune/
[SET]
name: Crocune
move 1: Surf
move 2: Calm Mind
move 3: Rest
move 4: Sleep Talk
item: Leftovers
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Crocune combines the old Calm Mind Shuffle set with the Sleep Talker, fixing the former's problems with being useless when asleep and the latter's lack of a setup move, but at the cost of having only one move, Surf. Crocune can take out phazers (namely, Hippowdon and Skarmory) when asleep if Sleep Talk selects Surf and it has several CMs under its belt. This Suicune is not an immediate threat, but can be problematic for many Pokémon, and is a sturdy wall, with EVs placed in HP and Defense to allow it to take physical hits as well.</p>
<p>Crocune is useless against Vaporeon, which endlessly walls any Suicune lacking HP Electric with Water Absorb and special bulk; although Suicune can PP stall Vaporeon with Pressure, unless it is the last Pokémon, this is undesirable. Any team carrying Crocune will need a consistent and reliable Vaporeon counter. Jolteon and Rotom-A work particularly well in tandem with Suicune, each with their own distinct advantages. Jolteon can absorb any Electric attacks aimed at Suicune and easily take out Vaporeon and other bulky waters, as well as Dragon-types, such as Salamence, which are otherwise free to set up on this set. Rotom-A is similarly sturdy to Suicune and can cripple walls with Trick, eliminate Water-types with STAB Thunderbolt, and stop the sweep of threatening sweepers with Will-O-Wisp or Thunder Wave. It can also set up dual screens with ease, giving Suicune some security while it sets up its first CMs and is most vulnerable.</p>
<p>Grass-types, especially Celebi, also deal well with Crocune. Offensive Celebi has a high chance of OHKOing Suicune with Leaf Storm (assuming Stealth Rock) and will always 2HKO. Both defensive and offensive variants can set up their own CMs, Leech Seed Celebi beats it solidly, and Choiced Celebi nearly always carry Trick, allowing them to render Crocune effectively useless. Rotom-A can take out Celebi earlier in the match (although it can't come in on Leaf Storm) with Shadow Ball, and Scizor handles Celebi well with STAB CB U-turn and/or Pursuit, although it has to beware of HP Fire. Tyranitar, although it has to avoid heavily boosted Grass Knots and powerful Leaf Storms, and the occasional Scarf U-turn, also ruins Celebi. Even Reflect Celebi dislikes Crunch coming from Choice Band Tyranitar, with a good chance of a 2HKO with Stealth Rock up. The latter two Pokémon also cause problems for Blissey.</p>
<p>Heatran has little problem with Celebi (although it has to watch out for Earth Power), and works well with Celebi and Suicune together. Together, they form a strong defensive combination based on good defenses and complementary typing. Another good Grass-type to run with Suicune is Roserade, which resists both types Suicune is weak against and is a decent special wall. It is also immune to Leech Seed and can set up (and absorb) Toxic Spikes, which are highly useful and help Suicune stall.</p>
[SET]
name: Offensive Suicune
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Surf / Hydro Pump
move 3: Ice Beam
move 4: Hidden Power Electric
item: Life Orb
nature: Timid / Modest
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Suicune functions well as a tank, but an often overlooked role it can play is offensive; not only does it have the element of surprise, it can sweep easily enough with decent Speed, a high base 90 Special Attack, and almost impeccable coverage with Surf, Ice Beam, and Hidden Power Electric.</p>
<p>After a single Calm Mind, Suicune can become a powerful sweeper given its superb Special Attack and wide coverage of its move set. Surf is generic STAB. However, Hydro Pump can be used for the higher base power, although the low PP and reduced accuracy is disappointing. Finally, the combination of Ice Beam and Hidden Power Electric gives a pseudo-BoltBeam and with Surf hits everything in the game for at least neutral damage, bar Shedinja and Lanturn. Most Suicune carry either Surf and Ice Beam or Surf and Hidden Power Electric which leaves quite a few Pokemon able to wall Suicune and set themselves up. However, when all three of these moves are utilized, a solid counter, outside of Blissey, is hard to come by. For example, after a Calm Mind, Timid Suicune with Life Orb can do 41% - 49% to 188 HP / 0 SpD Bold Vaporeon and can 2HKO 100% of the time if Modest.</p>
<p>The given EVs are common for a special sweeper. However, if a bulkier Suicune is desired, Leftovers can be used over Life Orb with an EV spread of 172 HP / 120 SpA / 216 Spe with a Timid nature. Timid and 216 Speed EVs let Suicune outrun all Pokemon with base 80 Speed and below.</p>
<p>As with all Life Orbers, switching in on powerful attacks is not advisable, due to Suicune whittling away 10% of its HP every turn it attacks; with Sandstorm and entry hazards, this Suicune's main problem is that it dies too fast. Wishers such as Latias and Blissey are again useful here, and Scizor becomes even more useful, especially as the main counter to this set is Blissey. Most things which switch in on CB U-turn—Gyarados, defensive Zapdos, Heatran, and other Steel-types—will switch out of Suicune, giving it a free Calm Mind. If defensive Zapdos chooses not to switch, Suicune can take it out with Ice Beam. The only Zapdos both Suicune and Scizor have problems with is Timid Life Orb.</p>
<p>Although Suicune is by no means slow, it lacks the raw Speed most sweepers have, so it helps to take those out either with another sweeper or on a predicted switch. Knowledge of the opponent's team is essential, so scouting with U-turners (again, Scizor or Flygon help here) is a useful accompanying strategy.</p>
[SET]
name: Subcune
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Calm Mind
move 3: Surf
move 4: Ice Beam
item: Leftovers
nature: Timid
evs: 252 HP / 64 SpA / 192 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>There are two ways to play Subcune: defensively and offensively. Both have their own pros and cons, but both are equally useful. Offensive Subcune needs less Calm Minds to sweep, but wishes it had the bulk available to the defensive version and further struggles to beat Blissey, a huge advantage the defensive version has over offensive. Defensive runs the spread listed, while the offensive spread is 44 HP / 252 SpA / 216 Spe. The offensive spread utilizes max Special Attack for more immediate power, with 192 Speed for outpacing Jolly Mamoswine and the remainder invested in HP. Bring Suicune in on something it can force out and set up a Substitute. From there, you can deal with the opponent's Suicune answer accordingly, setting up or attacking based on the situation.</p>
<p>These situations should illustrate the differences between the two. With 252 HP, Subcune sets up 404 HP Substitutes, enabling it to beat Seismic Toss Blissey much more easily. Offensive, however, will have its Substitutes broken by Seismic Toss, and will get less CMs. Both sets require Toxic Spikes and Sandstorm to overcome Blissey, or they will lose out regardless. Gyarados sets up on the defensive Subcune with relative ease, with +1 Ice Beam only 3HKOing it, assuming Stealth Rock. Offensive, however, 2HKOs with the same amount of Calm Minds and SR in play, and so Gyarados cannot really do much against it. Offensive +1 Subcune is guaranteed a 2HKO on 252/220 Zapdos, and while defensive Subcune has a chance just over 80% of achieving that same 2HKO, it requires Stealth Rock to accomplish this as well.</p>
<p>Both Suicune will welcome Wish support, as Substitutes, residual damage, and damage taken while switching in on an attacking move all wear it quickly enough, and without Wish, it cannot come in and repeatedly attempt to seep. Defensive Subcune needs Stealth Rock even more than its offensive counterpart, and both require Toxic Spikes to be set up to enable them to beat Blissey. As always, Roserade makes a good partner for Suicune with its resistances, ability to remove the Toxic Spikes that bother Suicune itself, and capability to get two layers of Toxic Spikes. Scizor can take advantage of opportunities such as U-turning on Salamence and then frightening it out with the threat of Ice Beam, giving it the free turn it desperately wants.</p>
<p>Whether you pick offensive or defensive is dependent on your team. Offensive Suicune is essentially useless on a defensive team, and defensive Suicune slows down the momentum of an offensive team and takes too long to set up. Both are as devastating as each other if played right, however.</p>
<p>On an offensive team, Pokémon like Scizor and Salamence will appreciate having Gyarados and Dragon-types removed respectively, opening up a sweep for them, and can get rid of Pokémon like Tyranitar. Celebi and Heatran can utilize their typing synergy with Suicune on any kind of team, as they can come in on each other's weaknesses. On a defensive team, surround the enemy with entry hazards, as without them, Suicune cannot get the KOs it needs at first.</p>
<p>This set has problems with phazers, especially Roar Vaporeon and Perish Song Celebi. Having Pokémon that can beat them (physical hard-hitters for Vaporeon, Heatran and Scizor for Celebi provided it isn't carrying Earth Power/Hidden Power Fire respectively) is essential or Suicune will be repeatedly forced out and die from being worn down by residual damage.</p>
[SET]
name: Calm Mind Shuffle
move 1: Surf
move 2: Calm Mind
move 3: Roar
move 4: Ice Beam / Hidden Power Electric / Rest
item: Leftovers
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpA
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>With excellent defenses and the ability to clean up lategame when counters are eliminated, Suicune still walls decently and can still set up for a sweep, although its capacity to live forever has been greatly lessened since ADV. With entry hazard support, Suicune can take several hits and wear the opponent's team down with residual damage, making it easier for other teammates to come in and clean up, or facilitate its own sweep. Whenever a good opportunity occurs for Suicune to Calm Mind, it should take it; particularly when without Rest, Suicune should be brought in on something afraid of it after a teammate is knocked out, and CM or attack/Roar based on what is known of the opponent's team.</p>
<p>The EVs are placed fully in HP and Defense, as Suicune has no way of boosting its Defense and causing most people to hit it heavily with physical attackers, and HP allows it to survive longer in general.</p>
<p>The first three moves are necessary to this set, but the fourth is optional, and the choice of which to use is important. Ice Beam is the primary option for the ability to OHKO Dragons, although Hidden Power Electric gives it a way to hit other Water-types. More importantly, it hits Gyarados, which resists Water, is neutral to Ice, and has good Special Defense (and occasionally carries Taunt, which shuts this Suicune down). Rest can be used to prolong Suicune's survival, although leaving Suicune completely vulnerable for two turns is no longer safe at all, as many Pokémon are capable of eliminating it in two turns.</p>
<p>Although the choice of move changes how this set is played to a degree, universally it requires good support from its teammates. Suicune should be paired with Spikes, Toxic Spikes, and Stealth Rock to capitalize on the potential of Roar. As it lacks resists and is worn down quickly enough, Wish support—for example, from Blissey, Latias, or Jirachi—is extremely important, allowing Suicune to come in multiple times. If you choose to use Rest, Blissey is again a good option with Aromatherapy; leaving Suicune asleep all that time can be disastrous. A spinner helps with non-Rest to allow it to switch in over and over and get rid of Toxic Spikes, which are particularly detrimental.</p>
<p>Ice Beam is the best option, as mentioned, for its ability to OHKO most Dragon-types, which are the biggest physical (and special) threats to Suicune and its teammates. However, if you already have a check for them and need a way to deal with Gyarados, Hidden Power Electric is viable. If you use Hidden Power Electric, Latias becomes even more desirable, with its ability to Wish and deal with non-Dragon Danced Salamence (keep in mind that it cannot switch into any Dragon attacks). If you use Ice Beam, you should have some way of removing other bulky Waters which resist both attacks, although they will be worn down by entry hazards and Roaring anyway. Examples of good Grass-type partners for Suicune are Celebi and Roserade, especially combined with Heatran for complementary resistances. Physically bulky Steel-types are also useful to cover the powerful sweepers often employed to destroy Suicune. One of Suicune's main problems is that it has few resistances and takes damage switching in, so an accompanying Choice Band Scizor with U-turn not only softens up the opponent but provides a method of bringing in Suicune unscathed.</p>
[SET]
name: Sleep Talk
move 1: Rest
move 2: Sleep Talk
move 3: Surf
move 4: Roar / Ice Beam / Hidden Power Electric
item: Leftovers
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>The main problem with Calm Mind Shuffle is that it lacks recovery and the ability to rid itself of status. This set plays rather differently, fixing that issue at the expense of losing Calm Mind. The choice of attacks and EV allocation are the same, but it is now easier to bring Suicune in. The only other real difference other than more special vulnerability is that Roar is more useful than a second attack for forcing out Pokémon trying to set up, or that Suicune cannot take repeated assaults from.</p>
<p>Although some partners are still useful as ever, such as Celebi and Heatran, Wishers and spinners are no longer important, as Suicune can heal itself. Spikers are still very important, especially if you use Roar. Partnering this Suicune should be more based upon the ability to cover weaknesses and wall as a combination.</p>
[Team Options]
<p>Both offensive and defensive Suicune will appreciate having Stealth Rock and/or Spikes set up. Defensive Suicune particularly needs Toxic Spikes support. As mentioned several times in the analysis, Roserade makes a useful partner to Suicune, as it can remove Toxic Spikes, set them up, and hurt any bulky waters that would be in the way. Celebi and Heatran make a good trio with Suicune based on resistances and their ability to remove certain threats (such as other Celebi). Rotom-A can cripple strong physical attackers with Will-O-Wisp and Blissey with Trick, as well as switch in on incoming Explosions.</p>
<p>Offensively, Scizor works well, denting enemies with CB U-turn and bringing in Suicune unscathed, as well as luring in Heatran and Gyarados. Symbiotically, Suicune chases out Salamence and Gyarados, and can handle many types of Zapdos, opening up a sweep for Scizor and various Fighting-types (e.g. Infernape, Lucario, and Heracross). If you want to use Suicune as a sweeper, pair it with something fast that can scout your opponent's team, such as Scarf Flygon or Infernape with U-turn; early-game, its main use is to open holes for stronger and faster party members to sweep, and it accomplishes this most successfully with Blissey gone.</p>
[Other Options]
<p>Offensively, Suicune gets nothing else of note but Shadow Ball and Extrasensory, both of which are only ever worth using in extremely narrow circumstances. As far as support options go, Reflect and Mirror Coat are the most useful, although rarely seen, as Suicune generally has better things to do with its precious moveslots. It can run Toxic and Protect, although that is probably better left off to Vaporeon, which has Wish. The only other thing it can really make use of is Tailwind, although Tailwind does not last enough time to make it worthwhile.</p>
[EVs]
<p>Suicune is generally a defensive Pokémon, and the EV spreads reflect this. 252 HP is necessary on all defensive sets, usually accompanied by 252 Def, as Calm Mind boosts Suicune's plentiful SpD. More offensive sets will want an investment in Special Attack and Speed to beat Jolly Tyranitar, Zapdos, and other Pokémon who run 244 Speed.</p>
[Opinion]
<p>Suicune was once the most fearsome tank, but in the transition from ADV to D/P, more powerful attackers and more powerful boosting items were introduced, diminishing Suicune's usefulness. Although it can hit hard with a Calm Mind or two, it has been mostly left behind in the hard-hitting, fast-paced physical metagame of today. However, that is not to say that Suicune isn't still excellent both offensively and defensively, and it manages to stay consistently OU. While other Pokémon perform its main tasks differently, Suicune is still a good addition to a defensive team in particular.</p>
[Counters]
<p>In general, Suicune dislikes boosted physical attacks. Sets lacking HP Electric are walled effortlessly by Water Absorbers, especially Vaporeon, although one-on-one Suicune can PP stall it. Also, provided Suicune lacks Roar and Rest, Blissey often beats Suicune. If you are confident the Suicune doesn't have HP Electric, Gyarados can set up on it; if it doesn't have Ice Beam, Dragon-types can come in and get to work. Celebi can stop a sweep with Perish Song, cripple any efforts to wall with Leech Seed, and dent Suicune severely with its STAB Grass moves. Roserade can do the same, as well as set up Toxic Spikes, the bane of Suicune's existence. Rest sets without Sleep Talk can be eliminated easily enough by anything powerful, such as Choice Band Tyranitar; wear it down and then take it out when it is forced to Rest. Although Latias has to be careful of Roar and Ice Beam, it can CM up on Suicune as well, and Recover away damage incurred. Jolteon, faster Zapdos (Roost), and Raikou frighten Suicune away as well. Defensive Suicune can be shut down by Tricking it or Exploding on it; offensive Suicune is stopped by status or generally any faster sweeper.</p>
