Gen 4 Empoleon (OU Revamp) [QC 2/2] [GP 2/2]

[OVERVIEW]

Empoleon's excellent Water / Steel typing, well-rounded stats, and decent movepool make it a great Pokemon in the DPP landscape. Its unique typing provides it with key resistances such as Dragon and Water, which makes Empoleon the only Pokemon in the metagame that resists both of Kingdra's STAB moves in addition to Choice Specs Latias's Draco Meteor + Surf combination. Its Dark and Rock resistances also enable it to take on both of Tyranitar's STAB moves while also providing it with a Stealth Rock resistance. Empoleon also has the distinction of being a fantastic answer to Jirachi, as it resists both Iron Head and Body Slam and is not weak to Fire Punch. Empoleon has access to the most powerful Hydro Pump of all OU Pokemon; when it's boosted by its ability Torrent, Empoleon can deliver unrivaled power on the field, making it even more threatening in a metagame where usual teams are suffering from a lack of a real Water-type resistance. Empoleon is usually seen as an offensive powerhouse thanks to its access to Agility, which, paired with its high Special Attack and good coverage, turns it into a fearsome sweeper. However, outside of its ability Torrent, Empoleon has no means to boost its Special Attack, which can prevent it from hitting some Pokemon hard enough. Finally, Empoleon also has access to utility moves like Stealth Rock, Roar, and even Knock Off, which is a big tool against defensive teams. Its low Speed stat is one of its main cons; Empoleon has to run a Timid nature to outspeed Choice Scarf Rotom-A and Adamant Choice Scarf Flygon, which is not always ideal because it usually wants all the power it can have. While it can take special hits effectively thanks to its good bulk, Empoleon is vulnerable to common coverage types in the metagame, such as Ground, Fighting, and Electric.

[SET]
name: Lead
move 1: Hydro Pump
move 2: Grass Knot
move 3: Stealth Rock / Ice Beam
move 4: Aqua Jet / Ice Beam / Knock Off
item: Focus Sash
ability: Torrent
nature: Modest / Rash
evs: 252 SpA / 4 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Empoleon is one of the best leads in the DPP OU metagame. Its ability to quickly put pressure against both offensive and defensive teams while being able to set up Stealth Rock makes it a tremendous lead.

Hydro Pump is Empoleon's primary STAB move, which deals significant damage to almost everything in the metagame, even some Pokemon that resist it like Breloom and Starmie. Thanks to its high Special Attack, Empoleon is able to 2HKO common leads like Metagross, Machamp, Jirachi, and Azelf or weaken a Pokemon that switches in. Grass Knot is a near-mandatory coverage move for Empoleon, as it enables it to hit Water-type Pokemon such as Starmie super effectively, which means Empoleon will consistently maintain Stealth Rock against the best spinner of OU. Swampert, Suicune, Milotic, Gyarados, and Kingdra are other targets Empoleon much appreciates being able to hit. Empoleon is a fantastic Stealth Rock setter; its favorable matchup against a lot of leads helps it get Stealth Rock up easily most of the time, and its coverage moves paired with its powerful Hydro Pump can be difficult to switch into for both offensive teams and defensive teams. None of the leads like Jirachi, Hippowdon, and Tyranitar want to take a Hydro Pump, so they're usually forced to switch out, leaving themselves subject to the opposing offensive pressure and giving up the chance to set up their own Stealth Rock early. On top of that, thanks to its Focus Sash, Empoleon will always avoid any KO while also getting in Torrent range, even against Clefable's Seismic Toss, which is a 4HKO. Aqua Jet serves as an all-purpose priority STAB move that is used to finish off Focus Sash leads like Azelf and Metagross or just getting overall chip damage that might come in handy later on, such as against Heatran and Gengar. Ice Beam is an additional coverage move mainly used to hit Dragonite, Latias, and Grass-types such as Breloom, Shaymin, and Celebi super effectively, which resist Empoleon's Water / Grass coverage. Lastly, Knock Off is another option that helps cripple potential early-game switch-ins like defensive Jirachi, Clefable, Blissey, Latias, and Grass-types like Celebi and Abomasnow.

Set Details
========
252 Special Attack EVs and a Modest nature enable Empoleon to hit as hard as possible, while the remaining 252 EVs go in Speed so Empoleon can outspeed major threats such as Machamp and Speed tie with fast Swampert. While Modest looks like the best nature, Rash is another option that doesn't compromise Aqua Jet's power, which can help get nice chip damage on Pokemon like Heatran and Gengar. Keep in mind that generally it's not worth minimizing Empoleon's Special Defense, though, since it is likely to take one or two hits from the likes of Latias and Suicune. Timid is not an option because Empoleon wants to deal as much damage as possible to Pokemon like Jirachi and Clefable, which wouldn't be nearly as pressured without a Special Attack-boosting nature. Focus Sash fits Empoleon perfectly, as it allows it to tank any hit from the likes of Zapdos, Rotom-A and Flygon and strike back with a Torrent-boosted Hydro Pump.

Usage Tips
========
If you're facing a lead that is very threatening to your whole team like Machamp or Zapdos that can be pain to deal with for offense, you might want to throw a Hydro Pump immediately to weaken or even KO them. However, know that this implies that you won't be able to set up Stealth Rock. In easier matchups, usually set up Stealth Rock turn 1 and throw out the appropriate attack to weaken the opposing lead. Keep in mind the synergy between Focus Sash and Torrent; once Empoleon activates its Focus Sash, it gets in Torrent range, which means it is able to fire off a powerful Hydro Pump that almost nothing can stand. Against offensive teams, if you manage to keep your Empoleon alive against the opposing lead, try to preserve it as fodder, which may turn out pretty useful to regain momentum. Empoleon's resistances also allow it to come into the field multiple times, and it may find opportunities to throw out attacks or set Stealth Rock back up if needed. Against more defensive teams, Empoleon tends to be chipped down much more slowly, so try to manage its health as much as you can in order to use Torrent to your advantage and put pressure on foes like Clefable and specially defensive Jirachi that should typically check Empoleon. If Empoleon is in Torrent range, try to bring it on the field on a predicted switch or once the enemy is forced to use a recovery move.

Team Options
========
Thanks to Empoleon's versatility, it pairs well with many different Pokemon. Teammates that benefit from the early offensive pressure and momentum set up by Empoleon are much appreciated. Dragon Dance sweepers such as Gyarados and Dragonite help in keeping up the offensive pressure, especially if Empoleon has weakened the opponent's Latias or Water-types. Jirachi is very useful to those typical offensive teams, since it can run various sets and support its team at its convenience. It's one of the few Pokemon on offense that keeps in check all of Lucario, Scizor, Starmie, and Tyranitar and also takes on Dragon-types and opposing Jirachi well. Tyranitar is very desirable because it traps both Latias and Rotom-A and supplies defensive utility in keeping up against Pokemon like Zapdos and Starmie, which otherwise would be too much to deal with. Latias provides wonderful support on offense, keeping up against Pokemon like Breloom and Infernape defensively without compromising offensive pressure with its Choice sets. Bronzong not only provides a great defensive backbone thanks to its typing and defensive stats but also can act as late-game cleaner with Trick Room, which goes well with Choice Band Tyranitar. Gengar brings immunities to Fighting and Ground to the table and is able to disrupt both offensive and defensive teams with Taunt, Will-O-Wisp, or even Explosion. Kingdra, Swampert, and Suicune are other great teammates more focused on stacking Water-types and overloading the opposing Water-type checks. Finally, because sometimes Empoleon may not be able to set up its Stealth Rock against very specific leads like Machamp and Zapdos, you may want a second Stealth Rock setter in your team like Jirachi or Tyranitar.

[SET]
name: Agility
move 1: Agility
move 2: Hydro Pump / Surf
move 3: Ice Beam
move 4: Grass Knot / Substitute
item: Shuca Berry / Wacan Berry / Petaya Berry
ability: Torrent
nature: Modest / Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
This set allows Empoleon to compensate for its low Speed and become a terrifying sweeper.

Hydro Pump is the best STAB option due to its high Base Power; Surf is a possibility if you prefer a 100% accurate move, but it might miss out on damage on key targets like Jirachi, Tyranitar, Rotom, Metagross, and Bronzong. Ice Beam covers Dragon- and Grass-types like Latias, Dragonite, Breloom, Celebi, and Shaymin, while Grass Knot deals with Water-types such as Swampert, Starmie, Suicune, and Milotic. Paired with Empoleon's Water-type STAB attack, this move combination provides unresisted coverage in the metagame. Finally, Substitute can be used over Grass Knot, but it should always be used with Petaya Berry. With this move, the idea is to set up Agility and keep using Substitute until both Petaya Berry and Torrent activate, which makes Empoleon more threatening than ever. However, keep in mind that this option is less reliable and will be less consistent overall, since it gives up Grass-type coverage, and if Empoleon is in Petaya Berry range, this means it's also in range of priority attacks. Hidden Power Electric is another option that should be used only if you're really weak to Gyarados and can't afford to let it set up; it's overall worse than Grass Knot, because Empoleon now can't hit Swampert as hard anymore and becomes weaker against Pokemon like Starmie, Suicune, and Milotic.

Set Details
========
252 EVs in Special Attack maximize Empoleon's damage output, and 252 EVs in Speed make it as fast as possible after one Agility. A Modest nature is the way to go most of the time because of the higher power it gives to Empoleon, ensuring it can 3HKO Pokemon like Clefable and Bronzong and do significant more damage to bulky Jirachi. That said, Timid is also a pretty decent choice because it allows Empoleon to outrun Choice Scarf Rotom-A and Adamant Choice Scarf Flygon after one Agility, which can end up sealing a game. Overall, a Modest nature looks better if you have Tyranitar's Pursuit support, while Timid doesn't necessarily require it. Shuca Berry is incredibly useful because it enables Empoleon to take an Earthquake from the likes of Choice Scarf Flygon, Dragonite, Gyarados, Swampert, Tyranitar, and Metagross. On the other hand, Wacan Berry ensures that Empoleon survives a Thunderbolt from Rotom-A, Zapdos, and Magnezone.

Usage Tips
========
Generally, because it rarely sweeps teams on its own, you want to scout and weaken the opposing team a bit if you're aiming for an Empoleon late-game sweep. Weakening Steel-types such as Jirachi, Magnezone, Bronzong, and Metagross and Pokemon like Clefable, Tyranitar, and Latias helps in that regard. Try to keep your Empoleon hidden and healthy for the most part of the game, and wait for the ideal moment to bring it out. The best way to take advantage of Empoleon is to bring it on a Choice-locked Pokemon like Outrage-locked Flygon, Crunch- or Pursuit-locked Tyranitar, or Choice-locked Latias. Since Empoleon has good bulk and good resistances, it can also afford to take a hit from anything, which is even more doable if it has a Berry that halves damage from a super effective move. Due to its low Speed, using Agility once will not make Empoleon faster than Choice Scarf users like Flygon, Rotom-A, Latias, and Jirachi, so sometimes it will have to find opportunities to set up a second Agility to outrun those.

Team Options
========
Pokemon that help in making Empoleon's sweep easier are more than valued. Tyranitar is a big one, as it is able to Pursuit trap both Choice Scarf Rotom-A and Choice Scarf Latias, which are thorns in Empoleon's side. Heatran and Gengar are both amazing at pressuring Pokemon like Jirachi, Clefable, and Blissey; the former can use Magma Storm and Taunt or Explosion to get rid of Clefable and Blissey, while the latter can use Will-O-Wisp to cripple specially defensive Jirachi or effectively lure Clefable and Blissey and take them out with Explosion. Gengar also can force Pokemon like Flygon to use Outrage, which opens the gates for Empoleon. Breloom, in the same vein, is excellent at taking advantage of special walls like Clefable and Blissey, especially if paired with Tyranitar, which has great synergy with it. Because Empoleon is usually susceptible to priority moves like Mach Punch from the likes of Breloom and Infernape, Chople Berry + Dragon Dance Tyranitar does a good job luring in and removing those for Empoleon. Pokemon like Kingdra and Suicune help as well in forcing Jirachi and Clefable to take serious damage. Lastly, Choice Specs Latias can drop powerful Draco Meteors on opposing special walls while also threatening to shut down a defensive Pokemon with Trick. In case Empoleon gets weakened early or gets afflicted with status, Healing Wish Latias can be used and bring Empoleon back to full health.

[SET]
name: Specially Defensive
move 1: Surf
move 2: Protect
move 3: Roar / Knock Off
move 4: Stealth Rock
item: Leftovers
ability: Torrent
nature: Calm
evs: 252 HP / 252 SpD / 4 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Despite being a powerful offensive Pokemon, Empoleon is also a fantastic special wall thanks to its great typing, very good Special Defense, and ability to check Pokemon such as Choice Specs Latias, Jirachi, Heatran, Suicune, and most notably Kingdra.

Surf is Empoleon's best move for offensive pressure on this set. Protect enables Empoleon to gain additional Leftovers recovery, which is valuable as its only form of recovery, as well as scouting Choiced Pokemon like Tyranitar, Latias, Flygon, and Rotom. Roar is very useful to phaze Pokemon like Calm Mind Jirachi, Calm Mind Suicune, and Dragon Dance Kingdra and overall allow Empoleon to be less passive. Knock Off is an alternative and like Roar gives Empoleon a less passive presence on the field. Knock Off is excellent in long and slow-paced games; Empoleon can cripple Jirachi, Suicune, Starmie, Clefable, and pretty much anything with Leftovers, preventing passive recovery and allowing its team to start making progress. Empoleon's ability to be a great Stealth Rock setter is improved here thanks to Leftovers recovery and bulk investment. Toxic can be used to chip Pokemon like Starmie, Milotic, Kingdra, and Suicune more effectively.

Set Details
========
Investing 252 EVs in HP and Special Defense as well as providing Empoleon with a Calm nature ensures that it can perform its defensive role perfectly, as it wants to combat Starmie, Heatran, Latias, and Kingdra as well as possible. You could put in some Defense EVs to take on Pokemon like Tyranitar and Bronzong better or even some Special Attack EVs to do more damage to the likes of Jirachi, Skarmory, and Tyranitar. Leftovers is the mandatory item here, being the best and only form of recovery for Empoleon.

Usage Tips
========
You can lead with this Empoleon, since it performs well for the most part against the common leads; just make sure that you have backup options for Metagross, Machamp, and Zapdos leads. Set up Stealth Rock turn 1 most of the time, since almost nothing really prevents Empoleon from doing that, and Pokemon like Azelf may be reluctant to use Taunt in fear of a Hydro Pump. Switch Empoleon into powerful special attackers like Choice Specs Latias, Kingdra, and Suicune, and use the opportunity to use Roar or Knock Off to cripple the opposing team. Protect should be used relatively often, as it's important to keep Empoleon as healthy as possible. However, try to not use it too much and become too predictable in this aspect, as Pokemon like Tyranitar, Metagross, and Dragonite may come in on a telegraphed Protect and scare Empoleon out. You can use Empoleon to pivot against Gengar's Shadow Ball and throw out a Surf if it's in its KO range; it's also worth knowing that this Empoleon is one of the best defensive answers to Jirachi.

Team Options
========
Specially defensive Empoleon does require some support, since it's too passive against setup sweepers and defensive teams. Empoleon's teammates should try to lessen the impact of its numerous weaknesses and the potential setup it would allow while also providing solid countermeasures against defensive cores to compensate for its mediocre matchup against Clefable and the free momentum it can give. That said, for a great defensive synergy, teammates should mainly try covering Fighting-, Ground-, and Electric-type moves, as Empoleon's slowness makes it prone to being exploited by the strongest powerhouses of the tiers, such as Dragonite and Gyarados. Skarmory, which is one of the greatest physical walls, is an excellent option, and setting up Spikes is big for compensating for Empoleon's passiveness. Nidoqueen brings an Electric immunity as well as a Fighting resistance and sets up Toxic Spikes, while bulky Latias provides a ton of resistances and can synergize well with Spikes support and Roar. Choice Scarf Rotom-A gets the jump on dangerous foes like Infernape and Dragon Dance sweepers like Gyarados and Dragonite that Empoleon fears. It also blocks Rapid Spin, while RestTalk variants can absorb Breloom's Spore and Superpower to compensate for Empoleon's slowness. On the other hand, Gengar brings similar defensive utility and threatens defensive teams especially with Taunt, Will-O-Wisp, and Spikes support. Wish users such as Latias, Jirachi, and Clefable are valuable, as they give Empoleon way more longevity. You also need some sort of pressure outside of entry hazards, or Clefable will just sit on your team all day. Gliscor is an amazing stallbreaker that also provides great defensive utility against Pokemon like Lucario, Dragonite, and Tyranitar. Gengar, as mentioned previously, gives defensive teams a hard time while providing a countermeasure to Infernape and Breloom. Breloom takes advantage of Clefable wonderfully, while Calm Mind Latias and Calm Mind Clefable are both great wincons against defensive teams. Furthermore, Clefable and Breloom can also absorb Will-O-Wisp from Rotom-A, which Empoleon should try to avoid. Lastly, Tyranitar is big because its sand synergizes really well with Empoleon's typing and helps making good progress in the game, while it also helps in the hazard game by trapping opposing Starmie.


[SET]
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Hydro Pump
move 2: Surf
move 3: Ice Beam
move 4: Grass Knot
item: Choice Specs
ability: Torrent
nature: Modest
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Empoleon's taking another approach with this set, maximizing its raw power with Choice Specs.

Hydro Pump is simply devastating; with Choice Specs, Empoleon has a chance of OHKOing maximum HP Metagross, always takes out Azelf leads, and turns the tables against bulky Jirachi and bulky Bronzong by turning a low chance of a 2HKO into a very guaranteed one. One of the main assets that Choice Specs Empoleon brings compared to regular sets shows against Clefable and specially defensive Jirachi; the former faces a guaranteed 2HKO, while the latter gets heavily damaged, which is huge because it can't come in freely on Hydro Pump anymore. Anything that does not resist Water will get swallowed up by a Choice Specs-boosted Hydro Pump, and even Pokemon that do resist it like Breloom, Starmie, uninvested Suicune, and Latias are still taking a ton of damage. Surf is the second best STAB option, which is less destructive but still very good in terms of power thanks to Choice Specs. It's also safer to spam than Hydro Pump thanks to its perfect accuracy and higher PP. Ice Beam covers Latias and Grass-types like Celebi and Shaymin, which resist Empoleon's Water-type STAB attacks, while Grass Knot destroys the Water-types that resist Ice- and Water-type coverage such as Milotic and Suicune. The extra power on Ice Beam and Grass Knot is key in securing the 2HKO on Pokemon like Kingdra and Gyarados.

Set Details
========
Maximize Empoleon's power with 252 EVs in Special Attack and a Modest nature in order to hit as hard as possible; it's absolutely crucial to maintain its benchmarks against Jirachi and Clefable and deal as much damage as possible against them. The remaining EVs go into its Speed in order to outrun as many Pokemon as possible. Note that a few EVs in HP may be useful to improve the odds of taking a Thunderbolt from Rotom-A or just to help against the likes of Jirachi and Tyranitar.

Usage Tips
========
Every time you have Empoleon on the field, fire off powerful attacks depending on what you are facing. Since this set should be used as a lead, you can use it to throw powered-up Water-type STAB attacks early-game and chip Empoleon's typical checks. If you're facing an offensive team, the first safe switch-in to a Choice Specs Hydro Pump is usually Latias. If you're facing a defensive team, odds are the first switch-in will be Clefable, which gets destroyed by Hydro Pump thanks to the surprise factor that Choice Specs Empoleon provides; the remaining possible best switch-ins are going to be Milotic, bulky Latias, and bulky Suicune. Depending on what foes have been revealed and the state of the game, you might want to click other moves and predict a bit, such as to take out Latias with Ice Beam or Suicune with Grass Knot. Use Empoleon's great typing to switch around resisted moves and find opportunities to throw as many attacks as you can in the middle of the game. Try to manage its health as much as possible to possibly enter Torrent range, which will make it devastating, especially against slow teams that might have a hard time forcing it out immediately.

Team Options
========
Tyranitar has very good synergy with Choice Specs Empoleon because it can trap both Latias and Blissey, two of the few Pokemon that are able to switch into a Choice Specs Hydro Pump, and its sand is huge for negating Leftovers from the likes of Milotic and Suicune. Jirachi can spread paralysis with Body Slam very nicely to support Empoleon and compensate for its low Speed, which prevents it from being fully threatening against fast teams. Since this Empoleon should lead, make sure that you have a good backup against Electric-types like Rotom-A and Zapdos; Pokemon like Blissey, Clefable, Swampert, and bulky Tyranitar are all great for that purpose. Empoleon appreciates having a teammate that can pivot at least once against Ground-, Electric-, and Fighting-type moves like Latias, Rotom-A, and Gengar, since this Empoleon has to lock itself into a move and will be easily forced out. Pokemon like Choice Specs Kingdra and Suicune help keep up Empoleon's offensive pressure with more strong Water-type attacks. Finally, Healing Wish Latias can give Empoleon a second life if it gets weakened badly.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
Chople Berry is an alternative on the Agility set; however, it remains very team dependent, inferior, and not as useful as other Berries like Shuca and Wacan, because even with Chople Berry, Empoleon is not taking Fighting-type moves from the likes of Infernape, Breloom, and Lucario that well. Alternatively, a mid-game Chople Berry set with Stealth Rock can stand against the likes of Infernape, Breloom, and Lucario and still keeps up against Jirachi and Latias. Yawn can be used as a filler move over Stealth Rock on a mid-game set, forcing switches and enabling Empoleon to try catching some KOs. RestTalk and Aqua Ring are options on the specially defensive set to improve Empoleon's longevity in providing it some sort of extra recovery; however, you will need to drop moves like Protect and Stealth Rock to make room for them. Icy Wind and Feather Dance find their use against setup sweepers like Gyarados that would like to set up on Empoleon for free. Feather Dance is also great in conjunction with entry hazards on the specially defensive set to force out physical attackers. The Choice Specs set can make room for Sleep Talk; however, it really wants all the four moves it has already.

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

**Choice Scarf Users**: Choice Scarf users like Rotom-A and Flygon can revenge kill Empoleon even after one Agility with their STAB moves. Choice Scarf Latias can use Thunderbolt, Thunder Wave, or even Trick to lock Empoleon into Ice Beam, which completely invalidates it.

**Special Walls**: Clefable and Blissey are both extremely annoying for Empoleon; the former can stall out Hydro Pump's PP with a combination of Soft-Boiled and potentially Protect, while the latter can cripple Empoleon with Thunder Wave and will never faint to Hydro Pump. Specially defensive Jirachi is at best 3HKOed by Empoleon's Hydro Pump, and it can chain Wishes and Protects and stall out Hydro Pump while crippling Empoleon with Body Slam.

**Pokemon that Resist Waters**: Among all the Pokemon resisting Water-type moves, Abomasnow is one of the most irritating. In addition to its good bulk and lack of a weakness to Ice Beam, its hail means Empoleon is consistently chipped down. Abomasnow can also use Leech Seed and Protect to easily stay healthy and make Empoleon completely worthless. Funnily enough, specially defensive Empoleon is a good check to its own Agility set, as it takes very little damage from Grass Knot and can eventually phaze it with Roar. Calm Mind Latias potentially walls Empoleon if it boosts up too much, meaning Empoleon has to rely on an Ice Beam freeze if Latias gets out of control. It is worth mentioning that Milotic, Suicune, and Starmie all wall SubPetaya Empoleon because it lacks Grass Knot. Lastly, despite the fact that Vaporeon is rarely seen, it remains obnoxious for Empoleon to deal with, as it takes almost nothing from Grass Knot due to its low weight.

**Trappers**: Magnezone is a situational check to Empoleon. Against the Agility set, it can come in at full health, tank a Hydro Pump, and revenge kill it with Thunderbolt, while it outspeeds the specially defensive set and does not take enough damage from Surf.

**Fighting-, Electric-, and Ground-type Coverage**: Empoleon's Ground-, Electric-, and Fighting-type weaknesses allow the most popular and strongest powerhouses of the tier to take advantage of it. Zapdos threatens all Empoleon sets with Thunderbolt and can check it pretty nicely if it's heavily invested in Special Defense. Thunder Jirachi 2HKOes most Empoleon sets without bulk investment and can significantly reduce its effectiveness with paralysis. Fighting-types like Infernape, Lucario, and Breloom can force Empoleon out with their STAB attacks, especially if they are running Mach Punch and Empoleon is at low health. Gengar nails Empoleon with Focus Blast, while offensive Starmie does enough damage with Thunderbolt to scare Empoleon out. Tyranitar is usually bulky enough to take one hit from Empoleon and damage it back with either Superpower or Earthquake. Finally, Pokemon like Gyarados, Dragonite, and even offensive Bronzong can deal tremendous damage to Empoleon with Earthquake.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Sakito, 433460]]
- Quality checked by: [[Excal, 456373], [Emeral, 72767]]
- Grammar checked by: [[The Dutch Plumberjack, 232216], [lotiasite, 302985]]
 
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mild is a nice idea for the lead and I've given it many honest tries but I have never once gotten legitimate use out of the extra power on aqua jet. I mean sure, I can think of a bunch of scenarios where it could be useful, especially with torrent, but then I remember how I like empoleon's physical bulk given the attacks it faces - rachi fire punch, cb waterfalls... hell, it's quite favored to live bulky pert and offensive gyara eq with after sr even with 0 investment (62.5% for both, and always lives without sr). I know it's a lead but that doesn't stop it from coming up against these scenarios and being able to do something about it potentially far more useful to me than the minuscule, irrelevant difference in aqua jet damage. genuinely the only thing mild lets you do is safely sac emp against offensive heatran without potentially giving it a sub...most of the time; you need a whopping 84 evs to guarantee you'll break, barring torrent. this scenario is not worth the loss in defense, especially since emp is not obligated to run max speed and can invest in a little bulk that can go a long way. if you really want that attack boost, I'd make it rash, which I don't think is bad at all - it won't die to anything it didn't already die to and I checked out the calcs, it effectively switches into latias pretty much the same. finally, knock off is also worth using on the lead, pressures clef/spdef rachi nicely which makes it excellent against stall while not compromising against offense since it can afford the moveslot and a lot of offense anchors on lefties rachi as well.

agi 3a should be merged with subpetaya
 
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Good work! I think you lost steam once it hit the Choice Specs section though. Let me know when this is all implemented and I'll give it the first QC check. Also, try to polish up some of the grammar/typos before this enters GP.
[OVERVIEW]

Empoleon's excellent Water / Steel-type, well-rounded stats and decent movepool makes it a great Pokemon on the DPP landscape. Its unique typing provides it key resistances such as Dragon, Water, Dark, Ghost, Steel and Rock, in addition to a Poison immunity. Thanks to that resistances panel, Empoleon can keep up against the likes of Choice Scarf-locked Flygon, Choice Band-locked Tyranitar and the powerful Choice Specs Latias. Above anything else, Empoleon can take on both of Kingdra's STAB moves, which is something no one else can do. Empoleon owns the most powerful Hydro Pump of OU. In addition to its ability Torrent which can increase significantly its strenght, Empoleon can deliver unrivaled power on the field, making it even more threatening in a metagame where usual teams are suffering from the lack of a real Water-type resistance. Empoleon has access to utility moves like Stealth Rock, Roar and Knock Off, but also got an offensive option in Agility which, paired with Empoleon's high Special Attack and good coverage turns it into a fearsome Sweeper. However, even after one Agility, its low Speed stat prevents it from being faster than Choice Scarf Rotom-A and Choice Scarf Flygon. While it can take Special hits effectively thanks to its good bulk, Empoleon's Ground / Fighting / Electric-type weaknesses makes it vulnerable to common coverages moves in the metagame, such as Earthquake, Superpower, and Thunderbolt.

- Make it very clear that Empoleon is the only Water / Steel type in the game and I'd put the Kingdra and Lati bit as one of the first things people read. You don't really need to elaborate on every single resistance Steel-type gives (poison immunity doesn't rly matter so much to mention it). Main ones are Dragon Water (Kingdra, Lati) and Ghost, Dark and Rock (Tyranitar).
- Just say briefly that its many resistances and unique typing enable it to take advantage of Choice item users.
- Actually, Omastar has the most powerful Hydro Pump. Empoleon's is only the most powerful when it is in Torrent range. Just change it to "OU Pokemon" because of this, I suppose.
- Definitely mention that it is a super good answer vs Jirachi overall as well, not weak to the standard moves of Body Slam, Iron Head, and Fire Punch, which should be highlighted early on in the overview.
- First introduce it as an offensive powerhouse, and then say "it also has utility moves in. . ." rather than the way you have it right now
- Outside of Torrent it has no means to boost its Special Attack, its strongest stat, so this may be another con worth highlighting when briefly mentioning Agility in the overview.
- Empoleon has generally good bulk overall, but its slow Speed is definitely the main con worth discussing.
- Would say coverage types (Ground, Fighting, Electric) rather than specific moves like Superpower
- Overall I think this overview is generally highlighting the right things and I like it a lot


[SET]
name: Lead
move 1: Hydro Pump
move 2: Grass Knot
move 3: Stealth Rock / Ice Beam
move 4: Aqua Jet / Ice Beam / Knock Off
item: Focus Sash
ability: Torrent
nature: Modest / Rash / Mild <-- Maybe just take off Mild. After BKC's comments a while back I think Mild's actually not a good choice overall.
evs: 252 SpA / 4 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Empoleon is one of the best leads in the DPP OU metagame. Its ability to quickly put pressure against both offensive and defensive teams while being able to set up Stealth Rock makes it a tremendous lead.

Hydro Pump is its primary STAB move, allowing Empoleon to hit hard everything that doesn't resist Water-type. Thanks to its high Special Attack Empoleon is able to 2HKO the common leads like Metagross, Machamp, Jirachi, and Azelf, or weaken a Pokemon that switches-in. Grass Knot is the near mandatory coverage move for Empoleon, as it enables it to hit super effectively Water-type Pokemons such as Swampert, Starmie, Suicune, and Milotic, while also doing a decent chunk to Gyarados, Kingdra, and opposing Empoleons. Empoleon is a fantastic Stealth Rock setter; its favorable match-up against a lot of leads helps it get Stealth Rock up easily most of the time, furthermore its coverage moves paired with its powerful Hydro Pump can be difficult to switch-in for both offensive teams and defensive teams. Its typing, Stealth Rock resistance aswell as Sandstorm Immunity also gives Empoleon plenty opportunities to come in on the field to set up Stealth Rock or throw an attack. Aqua Jet serves as an all purpose priority STAB move which can help at winning some Lead match-ups such as Azelf and Metagross or just getting overall chip that might come in handy later on, for example against the likes of Heatran and Gengar who take a significant ~20%. Ice Beam is an additional coverage move mainly used to hit super effectively Dragonite, Latias and Grass-types such as Breloom, Shaymin and Celebi, which otherwise resists Empoleon's Water-Grass Coverage. As for Knock Off, it's another option that helps crippling potential Empoleon's switch-ins that might want to come in early game like Jirachi, Clefable, Latias, Celebi, Shaymin, Blissey or Abomasnow. <-- Narrow this list down to Defensive Jirachi, Clefable, Blissey, Latias, and Grass types like Celebi and Abomasnow

- When discussing why it's one of the best leads in the metagame, give an example of how tremendously it can pressure some defensive leads like Hippowdon, Tyranitar, and Jirachi
- Mention how Empoleon will consistently be able to enter Torrent range as an offensive lead, which adds to the amount of damage it can deal early on
- When talking about Grass Knot, highlight Starmie as a priority, as it helps Empoleon to maintain its Stealth Rock versus the most consistent Rapid Spinner.
- "Hydro Pump is its primary STAB move, allowing Empoleon to hit hard everything that doesn't resist Water-type." Even some Water resists like Breloom and even Starmie still take a lot of damage. I'd reword this a little bit but I like the idea.


Set Details
========
Pump Empoleon's Special Attack with 252 EVs and a Modest nature in order to hit as hard as possible, the remaining 252 EVs goes in Speed so Empoleon can outspeed major threats such as Machamp and Swampert. While Modest looks like the best nature, Mild and Rash are two other options that doesn't compromise Aqua Jet's power in reducing Empoleon's attack, but generally it's not worth minimizing the defenses since Empoleon is likely to take one attack or two from the likes of Latias, Jirachi, Gyarados and Swampert. Focus Sash fits Empoleon perfectly as it allows it to live any hit from the opposing lead as long as it's fully healthy, and strike back with a Torrent boosted Hydro Pump.

- Would mention more specifically why a + Special Attack nature is so important by specifying that it maximizes damage versus opposing Jirachi and Clefable in particular, which would not be nearly as pressured with a nature like Timid.
- Mention why one may want to increase Aqua Jet's power at the expense of Special Defense (Heatran Substitutes, Torrent power later, etc)
- Specify some Pokemon that may OHKO it without a Focus Sash, like Zapdos, Rotom-A, Flygon, etc


Usage Tips
========
Most of the time, set up Stealth Rock turn 1 and throw a Hydro Pump to weaken the opposing lead. If you're facing a lead that is very threatening to your whole team, like Machamp and Zapdos that can be pain to deal with for offense, you might want to throw a Hydro Pump immediatly to weaken or even kill them. Keep in mind the synergy beetwen Focus Sash and Torrent, once Empoleon activates his Focus Sash it gets in Torrent range which means it is able to fire off powerful Hydro Pump that nothing can stand. Against offensive teams, If you managed to keep your Empoleon alive against the opposing lead, try to preserve it as a sack fodder which may turn out pretty useful later to regain momentum. Against more defensive teams, Empoleon tends to be chipped down much more slowly so try to manage its health as much as you can in order to use Torrent at your advantage and put pressure on foes like Clefable or Specially Defensive Jirachi that should typically check Empoleon.

- Use "KO" instead of "kill"
- Try highlighting that it is actually often worth preserving Empoleon if possible because its typing enables it to find many other opportunities to come in throughout a battle
- Make sure to make it clear with the Machamp and Zapdos bit that you'd be sacrificing Stealth Rock in order to hit them with Hydro Pump. That's currently implied but perhaps a reader may misinterpret it
- Otherwise, lead Empoleon is a simple Pokemon, this should be fine, but if you feel like going into a bit more detail on certain parts feel free to do so.


Team Options
========
Teammates that benefits from the early offensive pressure and momentum set up by Empoleon are much appreciated. Dragon Dancers such as Gyarados and Dragonite helps in keeping up the offensive pace, especially if Latias / Water-types have been weakened by Empoleon. Furthermore, Dragonite's and Gyarados typing helps dealing with lead Machamp which is super annoying for lead Empoleon. Mixed Wallbreakers such as Infernape, Dragonite and Flygon can go a long way in overwhelming opposing team's defensive cores. Kingdra, Swampert and Suicune are other great teammates more focused on the Water Spam and abusing the opposing Water Checks. Jirachi and Tyranitar usually helps patching holes and weaknesses in these typical offensive teams.

- Definitely go into more detail in this section.
- Elaborate more on Jirachi and Tyranitar
- Mention Pokemon like Latias, Bronzong (OTRZong + CBTar), Starmie, Rotom, Gengar, Zapdos, and Flygon
- Because Empoleon is so versatile, it combines well with many different Pokemon*


[SET]
name: Agility
move 1: Agility
move 2: Hydro Pump / Surf
move 3: Ice Beam
move 4: Grass Knot / Substitute
item: Shuca Berry / Wacan Berry / Petaya Berry
ability: Torrent
nature: Modest / Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
This set makes use of Agility to boost Empoleon's Speed and enables it to function as a Sweeper. <-- allows Empoleon to compensate for its low Speed and become a terrifying sweeper*

Hydro Pump is the best STAB option due to its high base power, Surf is a possibility if you prefer a 100% accurate move but you might miss out on key damages against foes like Jirachi, Tyranitar, Rotom, Metagross and Bronzong. Ice Beam covers Dragon and Grass types like Latias, Dragonite, Breloom, Celebi and Shaymin while Grass Knot deals with Water types such as Swampert, Starmie, Suicune, and Milotic. This coverage combination paired with Empoleon's Water STAB finds it unresisted in the metagame. Finally, Substitute can be used over Grass Knot but should always be used with Petaya Berry. The idea is to get an Agility up and Substitutes until you get to a low health point where both Petaya Berry and Torrent activates, which makes Empoleon more threatening than ever. However, keep in mind that the Substitute option is more fishy and will be less consistent overall because you drop the Grass coverage.

- Emphasize how Empoleon's amazing typing enables it to find several opportunities to set up throughout a match; briefly list some foes it can set up on (Jirachi?)
- Also mention that Petaya Berry Empoleon is in range to be revenge killed by priority; after Agility, it will not outspeed Choice Scarf Flygon, Rotom-A, Latias, etc. Go into the cons of this set
- Mention Hidden Power Electric as an alternative to hit Gyarados and still hit other Water-types super effectively, but also explain why it's generally worse than Grass Knot.


Set Details
========
The given spread is pretty straightforward; 252 EVs in Special Attack to maximize the damage output and 252 EVs in Speed to be as fast as possible after one Agility. Modest nature is the way to go most of the time because of the higher power it gives to Empoleon, that said Timid is also a pretty decent choice because it allows Empoleon to outrun Scarf Rotom-A after one Agility, which can end up being gamebreaker. Modest looks better if you have Tyranitar's Pursuit support, while Timid doesn't necessarily require it. Shuca Berry is incredibly useful because it enables Empoleon to smoothly take an Earthquake from the likes of Scarf Flygon, Dragonite, Gyarados, Swampert, Tyranitar and Metagross. On the other hand, Wacan Berry ensures that Empoleon survives a Thunderbolt from Rotom-A, Zapdos and Magnezone.

- Choice Scarf Rotom-A and Adamant Flygon as well (with Timid)
- Please elaborate why the power from Modest is more important than outspeeding Rotom-A and Flygon
- Even with Shuca, it does not take Earthquake so smoothly. It just gives it the ability to survive one.
- A bit more detail, maybe also talking about possible Torrent scenarios, would be great here


Usage Tips
========
Generally, because it rarely sweeps teams on its own, you want to scout and weaken the opposing team a bit if you aim for an Empoleon late game sweep. Weakening Steel types such as Jirachi, Magnezone, Bronzong, Metagross and Pokemons like Clefable, Tyranitar and Latias helps in that measure. Try to keep your Empoleon hidden and healthy for the most part of the game until you reveal it, and wait for the ideal moment to bring it out. Make sure to bring it on a Choice locked Pokemon like Outrage locked Flygon, Crunch or Pursuit locked Tyranitar or Choice locked Latias. You can also afford to take a hit from anything as long as its not hitting Empoleon super effectively. Due to its low speed, using Agility once will make Empoleon faster than everything except Choice Scarfers like Flygon, Rotom-A, Latias, and Jirachi, so sometimes if needed you will have to find opportunities to set up a second Agility to outrun those.

- This is perfect

Team Options
========
Pokemons that helps in making Empoleon's sweep easier are more than valued. Tyranitar is a big one, as it is able to Pursuit trap both Scarf Rotom-A and Scarf Latias which are thorns in Empoleon's side. Heatran and Gengar are both amazing at pressuring Pokemons like Jirachi, Clefable, and Blissey; the former can use Magma Storm and Taunt, or Explosion to get rid of Clefable and Blissey while the latter can use Will-O-Wisp to cripple Specially Defensive Jirachi, as well as Explosion which lures greatly Clefable and Blissey. Breloom in the same vein is excellent at taking advantage of Special walls like Clefable and Blissey, especially if paired with Tyranitar who has great synergy with it. Pokemons like Kingdra and Suicune helps aswell in forcing Jirachi and Clefable to take serious damages. Lastly, Choice Specs Latias can drop powerful Draco Meteors on the opposing Special walls while also being a threat in its ability to Trick its Choice item to a Defensive Pokemon.

- Healing Wish Latias! (In case it gets paralyzed by Jirachi or if it comes in earlier and takes a lot of damage in emergency scenarios)
- Gengar can also force Flygon to use Outrage, opening the gates for Empoleon. Gengar has incredible synergy with Empoleon all the time.
- I think Chople Berry Dragon Dance Tyranitar/Breloom and Infernape lures could be mentioned here because Mach Punch can stop an Empoleon sweep in some scenarios
- Maybe discuss Choice Specs Zapdos/Zapdos in general for wearing down bulky waters. Metagross can converge well onto those too.


[SET]
name: Specially Defensive
move 1: Surf
move 2: Protect / Knock Off <-- I feel like it really shouldn't drop Protect, honestly.
move 3: Roar / Knock Off
move 4: Stealth Rock
item: Leftovers
ability: Torrent
nature: Calm
evs: 252 HP / 252 SpD / 4 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Despite being a powerful offensive Pokemon, it appears that Empoleon is also a fantastic Special wall thanks to its great typing, pretty decent Special Defense and its ability to check Pokemons such as Specs Latias, Jirachi, and most notably Kingdra.

Surf is the STAB move of choice here thanks to its natural decent base power and its perfect accuracy. Protect enables Empoleon to passively recover more Leftovers which is precious because it's its only form of recovery, as well as check Choiced Pokemons like Tyranitar, Latias, Flygon and Rotom. Roar is very useful to phaze Pokemons like Calm Mind Jirachi, Calm Mind Suicune, Dragon Dance Kingdra, and overall to be less passive because Empoleon doesn't want to act like a sitting duck. Knock Off is an alternative and like Roar enables Empoleon to have a less passive presence on the field. Empoleon can Knock Off Jirachi, Suicune, Starmie, Clefable, and pretty much anything with Leftovers, preventing passive recovery and starting making progress. Like the lead set, Empoleon keeps its ability in being a great Stealth Rock setter, which is improved here thanks to Leftovers recovery and bulk investment.

- It's Special Defense is more than just "pretty decent", it's actually very good.
- Include Heatran and some other Special Attackers, maybe even Suicune
- Surf is Empoleon's best move for offensive pressure on this set
- Knock Off is excellent for long games versus more defensive teams; Roar finds use vs defensive teams but is more important to keep offensive setup sweepers in check like you mentioned already
- I would discuss Toxic even though it is not slashed as an alternative to Roar/Knock Off
- Discuss the Starmie interaction a bit here. Even though it does not have Grass Knot to hit Starmie, its enhanced Special Defense enables it to cripple Starmie via Toxic or Knock Off, or scout the opposing team early via Roar.
- Talk about why Empoleon is such a good phazer.


Set Details
========
Investing 252 EVs in HP, 252 EVs in Special Defense aswell as providing Empoleon a Calm nature ensures that it can perform its defensive role perfectly. Leftovers is the mandatory item here, being the best and only form of recovery for Empoleon.

- Explain a bit why the investment is the way it is. It really wants all it can get so that it can combat Starmie, Latias, and Kingdra as well as possible.
- Mention that perhaps some Defense EVs and Special Attack EVs can be used in a more specialized fashion to combat foes like Jirachi, Skarmory, and Tyranitar as an alternative. (Don't need to specify hard numbers)


Usage Tips
========
You can lead with this Empoleon since it performs well in the most part against the common leads, just make sure that you have backup options for Metagross and Machamp lead. Set up Stealth Rock turn 1 most of the time, since almost nothing really prevents Empoleon from doing that. Switch your Empoleon into powerful Special Attackers like Specs Latias, Kingdra, Suicune and use the opportunity to use Roar or Knock Off to cripple the opposing team. You can use Empoleon to pivot against Gengar's Shadow Ball and throw a Surf if it's in range, it's also worth knowing that this Empoleon walls most Jirachis for days.

- Zapdos as well as Metagross and Machamp
- Rephrase: "Try to get Stealth Rock up as soon as possible". You can even mention how Azelf may be reluctant to use Taunt in fear of a Hydro Pump.
- Encourage constant use of Protect to make sure it stays as healthy as possible, but also mention the cons of using Protect too much, as this Empoleon can be exploited harshly if it becomes predictable in that sense. Explain a scenario in which a threat may do this
- Try not to overexaggerate too much. "It is one of the best defensive answers to Jirachi" fits better.


Team Options
========
Specially defensive Empoleon does require some support to function nicely. Having a strong Physically defensive backbone with this Empoleon is crucial, because it can't handle Pokemons like Breloom, Tyranitar, Dragonite and Gyarados nicely. Spikes support is very much appreciated especially with Roar, Skarmory and Forretress both allows for it while providing some Physical insurance as well. You also need some sort of pressure outside of Hazards or Clefable is just sitting on you all day. Gliscor is an amazing stallbreaker, Breloom takes advantage of Clefable wonderfully while Calm Mind Latias and Calm Mind Clefable both are great win conditions against defensive teams.

- Wish users, Toxic Spikes users even, are worth mentioning here
- Mention why it needs support (too passive vs certain setup sweepers, can be set up on by defensive threats too). Stallbreakers/revenge killers are generally good here
- Go more into detail about Gliscor, Skarmory (backbone vs setup sweepers), Calm Mind Clefable, Calm Mind Latias. Discuss ScarfTar and Gengar too


[SET]
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Hydro Pump
move 2: Surf
move 3: Ice Beam
move 4: Grass Knot
item: Choice Specs
ability: Torrent
nature: Modest
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Empoleon's taking another approach with that set, maximizing its raw power with Choice Specs.

Hydro Pump is simply devastating, with Choice Specs Empoleon has a chance of OHKOing Metagross lead, while taking out bulky Azelf leads. Surf is the second best STAB option, relevant for its accuracy and its pretty strong base power. Ice beam covers Dragon and Grass types that resists Empoleon's Water STABs while Grass Knot destroys Water types that resists Ice and Water coverage.

Set Details
========
Maximize Empoleon's power with 252 EVs in Special Attack and a Modest nature. The rest goes into its Speed in order to outrun as many Pokemons as possible.

Usage Tips
========
Everytime you have Empoleon on the field, fire off powerful Hydro Pumps and see what's coming in. Depending on what got revealed and the state of the game you might want to click other moves and predict a bit, to take out a Latias with Ice Beam or a Suicune with Grass Knot for example. You can use Empoleon's great typing to switch around resisted moves and find opportunities to throw as much attacks as you can.

Team Options
========
Since this Empoleon leads, teammates that compensates its weaknesses as a lead are nice. Blissey can switch against Zapdos lead, while Gyarados can come in against Machamp. Tyranitar has good synergy with Specs Empoleon because it can trap both Latias and Blissey who are two of the few Pokemons that are able to switch into a Specs Hydro Pump. Paralysis support can be used with Empoleon, Jirachi and Thunder Wave Latias spreads paralysis quite nicely.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
Chople Berry is an alternative on the Agility set, however it's inferior to the other berries like Shuca and Wacan because even with Chople you are not taking Fighting moves well at all from the likes of Infernape, Breloom and Lucario. It remains gimmicky and is very team dependant. Hidden Power Electric has a niche on the Agility set over Grass Knot, but should only be used if you desperatly want to hit Gyarados. Lastly Yawn is an option on the Specially defensive set, but it's very unusual and usually not worth it.

- Overall, I feel that both Choice Specs and Other Options are barren and feel quite incomplete/rushed. I'd like to see you spend a bit more time on these two sections then I will properly check them.

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

**Scarf Rotom-A, Scarf Flygon, Scarf Latias**: Choice Scarfers like Scarf Rotom-A and Scarf Flygon can revenge kill Empoleon after one Agility with Thunderbolt and Earthquake respectively. Scarf Latias can Thunder Wave or Trick it and lock it into Ice Beam.

**Clefable, Blissey, Vaporeon**: Clefable and Blissey are both super annoying for Empoleon, the former can stall out Hydro Pumps with a combination of Soft-Boiled and Protect while the latter can cripple Empoleon with Thunder Wave and will never die to Hydro Pump. Despite the fact that Vaporeon is rarely seen nowadays it remains obnoxious for Empoleon to deal with, as it takes nothing from Grass Knot due to its weight.

**Specially Defensive Jirachi**: Specially Defensive Jirachi is at best 3OKHOed by Empoleon's Hydro Pump, it can chain Wishes and Protects and stall out Hydro Pumps while crippling Empoleon with Body Slam.

**Magnezone**: Magnezone is sort of a check to Empoleon. Against the Agility set it can come in full health, live a Hydro Pump and revenge kill with Thunderbolt, while against the Specially Defensive set Magnezone is faster and Surf does not enough damages.

- Change title of 1st to "Choice Scarf users"
- Second should be "Special Walls"; combine Jirachi there
- Water resists should be 3rd (Grass-types and Vaporeon)
- Trappers (Magnezone & Dugtrio)
- Offensive threats (Fighting-types, Ground-types, Electric-types). Separate into three categories by type. Zapdos can also check Empoleon defensive with Special bulk.
- Spend some more time here too, there's a lot more that was not covered.


[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Sakito, 433460]]
- Quality checked by: [[, ], [, ]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]
 

Emeral

toward new horizons
is a Forum Moderatoris a Community Contributoris a Tiering Contributoris a Contributor to Smogonis a Past SPL Champion
Great job :blobthumbsup:
Let me know if you have any question, I've tried to be as clear as possible. QC once implemented



[OVERVIEW]

Empoleon's excellent Water / Steel-type, well-rounded stats and decent movepool makes it a great Pokemon on the DPP landscape. Its unique typing provides it key resistances such as Dragon and Water, which makes Empoleon one of the greatest answers to Kingdra (Kingdra can set up on mono attacker empoleon and break through agility after boosts while not taking too much from ice beam in return, it's more adequate to highlight that its the only mon that resists to its both water and dragon STAB) and Choice Specs Latias (same, empoleon is not one of the best answer to latias unless its spedef which is not the main set, would say its pretty useful or unique cause it resists both surf and draco-meteor). It's Dark and Rock resistances makes it able to take on both of Tyranitar's STAB moves, while also providing Empoleon a Stealth Rock resistance. Empoleon also has the privilege of being a super good answer to Jirachi, as it resists Iron Head, Body Slam, and is not weak to Fire Punch. Empoleon owns the most powerful Hydro Pump of all OU Pokemon ; in addition to its ability Torrent which can increase significantly its strenght, Empoleon can deliver unrivaled power on the field, making it even more threatening in a metagame where usual teams are suffering from the lack of a real Water-type resistance. Empoleon is usually seen as an offensive powerhouse thanks to its access to Agility which, paired with its high Special Attack and good coverage turns it into a fearsome Sweeper. However, outside of its ability Torrent, Empoleon has no means to boost its Special Attack, which can be a drawback in hitting hard enough some Pokemons. Finally, Empoleon also has access to utility moves like Stealth Rock, Roar and even Knock Off which is a big tool against defensive teams. Its low Speed stat is one of it's major cons ; even after one Agility it prevents Empoleon from being faster than Choice Scarf Rotom-A (empoleon can run timid to outspeed choice scarf rotom-A) and Choice Scarf Flygon. While it can take Special hits effectively thanks to its good bulk, Empoleon is vulnerable to common coverages types in the metagame, such as Ground, Fighting and Electric.

[SET]
name: Lead
move 1: Hydro Pump
move 2: Grass Knot
move 3: Stealth Rock / Ice Beam
move 4: Aqua Jet / Ice Beam / Knock Off
item: Focus Sash
ability: Torrent
nature: Modest / Rash
evs: 252 SpA / 4 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Empoleon is one of the best leads in the DPP OU metagame. Its ability to quickly put pressure against both offensive and defensive teams while being able to set up Stealth Rock makes it a tremendous lead.

Hydro Pump is Empoleon's primary STAB move, which deals significant damage to almost everything in the metagame, even some Water resists like Breloom and Starmie. Thanks to its high Special Attack Empoleon is able to 2HKO the common leads like Metagross, Machamp, Jirachi, and Azelf, or weaken a Pokemon that switches-in. Grass Knot is the near mandatory coverage move for Empoleon, as it enables it to hit super effectively Water-type Pokemons such as Starmie, which means Empoleon will consistently maintain rocks up against the best Rapid Spinner of OU. Swampert, Suicune, Milotic, Gyarados, and Kingdra are other targets Empoleon appreciates much being able to hit. Empoleon is a fantastic Stealth Rock setter; its favorable match-up against a lot of leads helps it get Stealth Rock up easily most of the time, furthermore its coverage moves paired with its powerful Hydro Pump can be difficult to switch-in for both offensive teams and defensive teams; none of the leads like Jirachi, Hippowdon or Tyranitar wants to take a Hydro Pump so they're usually forced to switch-out, enduring the opposing offensive pressure and giving up the chance to set up their own Stealth Rock early. On top of that, thanks to its Focus Sash Empoleon will always be able to enter Torrent range against any attack (focus sash does not proc torrent on any attack, it makes it able to avoid any KO while also getting torrent's range), even Clefable's Seismic Toss which is a 4HKO. Empoleon's typing, Stealth Rock resistance aswell as Sandstorm Immunity also gives it plenty opportunities to come in on the field to set up Stealth Rock or throw an attack (this should probably move to usage tips or delete). Aqua Jet serves as an all purpose priority STAB move which can help at winning some Lead match-ups such as Azelf and Metagross is used to finish off sash leads like Azelf or Metagross or just getting overall chip that might come in handy later on, for example against the likes of Heatran and Gengar who take a significant ~20% (not necessary and depends their spread set items). Ice Beam is an additional coverage move mainly used to hit super effectively Dragonite, Latias and Grass-types such as Breloom, Shaymin and Celebi, which otherwise resists Empoleon's Water-Grass Coverage. As for Knock Off, it's another option that helps crippling potential Empoleon's switch-ins that might want to come in early game like Defensive Jirachi, Clefable, Blissey, Latias, and Grass types like Celebi and Abomasnow.

Set Details
========
Pump Empoleon's Special Attack with 252 EVs and a Modest nature in order to hit as hard as possible, the remaining 252 EVs goes in Speed so Empoleon can outspeed major threats such as Machamp and speed tie with fast Swampert. While Modest looks like the best nature, Rash is another option that doesn't compromise Aqua Jet's power in reducing Empoleon's attack, which can help getting nice chip on Pokemons like Heatran and Gengar. Keep in mind that generally it's not worth minimizing the Special Defense since Empoleon is likely to take one or two hits from the likes of Latias and Suicune. Timid is not an option because Empoleon wants to deal as much damage as possible to Pokemons like Jirachi and Clefable, which wouldn't be nearly as pressured without a +Special Attack nature. Focus Sash fits Empoleon perfectly as it allows it to live any hit from the likes of Zapdos, Rotom-A and Flygon and strike back with a Torrent boosted Hydro Pump.

Usage Tips
========
Most of the time, set up Stealth Rock turn 1 and throw a Hydro Pump to weaken the opposing lead. If you're facing a lead that is very threatening to your whole team, like Machamp and Zapdos that can be pain to deal with for offense, you might want to throw a Hydro Pump immediatly to weaken or even KO them. However, know that this scenario implies that you won't be able to set up Stealth Rock. In easier matchups, usually set up Stealth Rock turn 1 and throw the appropriate attack to weaken the opposing lead. Keep in mind the synergy beetwen Focus Sash and Torrent, once Empoleon activates his Focus Sash it gets in Torrent range which means it is able to fire off powerful Hydro Pump that almost nothing can stand. Against offensive teams, If you managed to keep your Empoleon alive against the opposing lead, you may want try to preserve it as a sack fodder which may turn out pretty useful later to regain momentum later. Its typing also allows it to come in multiple times on the field, and it may find opportunities to throw attacks or set Stealth Rock back up if needed. Against more defensive teams, Empoleon tends to be chipped down much more slowly so try to manage its health as much as you can in order to use Torrent at your advantage and put pressure on foes like Clefable or Specially Defensive Jirachi that should typically check Empoleon. If Empoleon is in torrent range, try to bring it on the field on a predicted switch or once the enemy is forced to use a recovery move.

Team Options
========
Thanks to Empoleon's versatility, it combines well with many different Pokemon. Teammates that benefits from the early offensive pressure and momentum set up by Empoleon are much appreciated. Dragon Dancers such as Gyarados and Dragonite helps in keeping up the offensive pace, especially if Latias / Water-types have been weakened by Empoleon. Jirachi is very useful to those typical offensive teams, since it can run various sets and support its team at its convenience. It's one of the few Pokemon on offense that keeps in check all of Lucario, Scizor, Starmie and Tyranitar, while taking well Dragon-types and other Jirachis. Tyranitar is very desirable because it traps both Latias and Rotom-A and supplies defensive utility in keeping up against Pokemon like Zapdos and Starmie, who otherwise would be too much to deal with. Latias provides wonderful support on offense, keeps up against Pokemon like Breloom and Infernape defensively whithout compromising offensive pressure with its Choice sets. Bronzong not only provides great defensive backbone thanks to its typing and defensive stats, but also can act as late game cleaner with Trick Room, which goes well with Choice Band Tyranitar. Gengar brings a Fighting / Ground immunity to the table and is able to disrupt both offensive and defensive teams with Taunt, Will-O-Wisp or even Explosion. Kingdra, Swampert, and Suicune are other great teammates more focused on the Water Spam and abusing the opposing Water Checks. Finally, because sometimes Empoleon may not be able to set up its Stealth Rock against very specific leads like Machamp and Zapdos, you may want a second Stealth Rock setter in your team like Jirachi or Tyranitar.

- could mention that it forms a great water overwhelming core with other water pokemons in general. its about the like of swampert kingdra gyarados suicune starmie.

great job here


[SET]
name: Agility
move 1: Agility
move 2: Hydro Pump / Surf
move 3: Ice Beam
move 4: Grass Knot / Substitute
item: Shuca Berry / Wacan Berry / Petaya Berry
ability: Torrent
nature: Modest / Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
This set allows Empoleon to compensate for its low Speed and become a terrifying sweeper.

Hydro Pump is the best STAB option due to its high base power, Surf is a possibility if you prefer a 100% accurate move but you might miss out on key damages against foes like Jirachi, Tyranitar, Rotom, Metagross and Bronzong. Ice Beam covers Dragon and Grass types like Latias, Dragonite, Breloom, Celebi and Shaymin while Grass Knot deals with Water types such as Swampert, Starmie, Suicune, and Milotic. This coverage combination paired with Empoleon's Water STAB finds it unresisted in the metagame. Finally, Substitute can be used over Grass Knot but should always be used with Petaya Berry. The idea is to get an Agility up and Substitutes until you get to a low health point where both Petaya Berry and Torrent activates, which makes Empoleon more threatening than ever. However, keep in mind that the Substitute option is more fishy and will be less consistent overall since you drop the Grass coverage, and if you're in Petaya range this means you're also in priority range. Hidden Power Electric is another option that should be used only if you're really weak to Gyarados and can't afford to let it setup, it's overall worse than Grass Knot because you now can't hit Swampert as nicely anymore plus you're weaker against Pokemon like Starmie, Suicune and Milotic.

Set Details
========
252 EVs in Special Attack to maximize the damage output and 252 EVs in Speed to be as fast as possible after one Agility. Modest nature is the way to go most of the time because of the higher power it gives to Empoleon, makes sure to 3HKO Pokemon like Clefable and Bronzong, and does significant more damage to bulky Jirachi. That said Timid is also a pretty decent choice because it allows Empoleon to outrun Choice Scarf Rotom-A and Adamant Choice Scarf Flygon after one Agility, which can end up being gamebreaker. Modest nature looks better if you have Tyranitar's Pursuit support, while Timid doesn't necessarily require it. Shuca Berry is incredibly useful because it enables Empoleon to take an Earthquake from the likes of Scarf Flygon, Dragonite, Gyarados, Swampert, Tyranitar and Metagross. On the other hand, Wacan Berry ensures that Empoleon survives a Thunderbolt from Rotom-A, Zapdos and Magnezone.

Usage Tips
========
Generally, because it rarely sweeps teams on its own, you want to scout and weaken the opposing team a bit if you aim for an Empoleon late game sweep. Weakening Steel types such as Jirachi, Magnezone, Bronzong, Metagross and Pokemons like Clefable, Tyranitar and Latias helps in that measure. Try to keep your Empoleon hidden and healthy for the most part of the game until you reveal it, and wait for the ideal moment to bring it out. Make sure The best way to take advantage of Empoleon is to bring it on a Choice locked Pokemon like Outrage locked Flygon, Crunch or Pursuit locked Tyranitar or Choice locked Latias (its usually better that way but you dont always have to 'cus empoleon has reasonable bulk and good resistances, also with resist berry its even more doable to set up on things like metagross dnite or gyarados). You can also afford to take a hit from anything as long as its not hitting Empoleon super effectively (according to the changes should probably be reworded). Due to its low speed, using Agility once will make Empoleon faster than everything except Choice Scarfers like Flygon, Rotom-A, Latias, and Jirachi, so sometimes if needed you will have to find opportunities to set up a second Agility to outrun those.

Team Options
========
Pokemons that helps in making Empoleon's sweep easier are more than valued. Tyranitar is a big one, as it is able to Pursuit trap both Scarf Rotom-A and Scarf Latias which are thorns in Empoleon's side. Heatran and Gengar are both amazing at pressuring Pokemons like Jirachi, Clefable, and Blissey; the former can use Magma Storm and Taunt, or Explosion to get rid of Clefable and Blissey while the latter can use Will-O-Wisp to cripple Specially Defensive Jirachi, as well as Explosion which lures greatly Clefable and Blissey. Gengar also can force Pokemon like Flygon to Outrage, which open the gates for Empoleon. Breloom in the same vein is excellent at taking advantage of Special walls like Clefable and Blissey, especially if paired with Tyranitar who has great synergy with it. Because Empoleon is usually prone to priority moves like Mach Punch from the likes of Breloom and Infernape, Chople Berry Dragon Dance Tyranitar does a good job in luring those for Empoleon. Pokemons like Kingdra and Suicune helps aswell in forcing Jirachi and Clefable to take serious damages (water overwhelming again in general). Lastly, Choice Specs Latias can drop powerful Draco Meteors on the opposing Special walls while also being a threat in its ability to Trick its Choice item to a Defensive Pokemon. In case Empoleon gets weakened early or has to take a status, Healing Wish Latias can be used and bring Empoleon back to full health.

[SET]
name: Specially Defensive
move 1: Surf
move 2: Protect
move 3: Roar / Knock Off
move 4: Stealth Rock
item: Leftovers
ability: Torrent
nature: Calm
evs: 252 HP / 252 SpD / 4 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Despite being a powerful offensive Pokemon, it appears that Empoleon is also a fantastic Special wall thanks to its great typing, very good Special Defense and its ability to check Pokemons such as Specs Latias, Jirachi, Heatran, Suicune and most notably Kingdra.

Surf is Empoleon's best move for offensive pressure on this set. Protect enables Empoleon to passively recover more Leftovers which is precious because it's its only form of recovery, as well as scout Choiced Pokemons like Tyranitar, Latias, Flygon and Rotom. Roar is very useful to phaze Pokemons like Calm Mind Jirachi, Calm Mind Suicune, Dragon Dance Kingdra, and overall to be less passive because Empoleon doesn't want to act like a sitting duck. Knock Off is an alternative and like Roar enables Empoleon to have a less passive presence on the field. Knock Off is excellent in long and slow paced games ; Empoleon can Knock Off Jirachi, Suicune, Starmie, Clefable, and pretty much anything with Leftovers, preventing passive recovery and starting making progress. Like the lead set, Empoleon keeps its ability in being a great Stealth Rock setter, which is improved here thanks to Leftovers recovery and bulk investment. Even if you don't have Grass Knot, you should be able to keep Stealth Rock up against Starmie and win the 1v1 because Starmie does very little damage to this Empoleon thanks to its enhanced Special Defense (in theory starmie can spam tbolt recover to wear it down and win long term so reword or delete, and should prolly belong to usage tips), you can also Knock its Leftovers off and chip it down quickly especially if Sand is up. Toxic can be used to chip more effectively Pokemon like Starmie, Milotic, Kingdra and Suicune.

Set Details
========
Investing 252 EVs in HP, 252 EVs in Special Defense aswell as providing Empoleon a Calm nature ensures that it can perform its defensive role perfectly, as it wants to combat Starmie, Heatran, Latias and Kingdra as well as possible. You could put in some Defense EVs to take better Pokemon like Tyranitar and Bronzong, or even some Special Attack EVs to do more damage to the likes of Jirachi, Skarmory and Tyranitar. Leftovers is the mandatory item here, being the best and only form of recovery for Empoleon.

Usage Tips
========
You can lead with this Empoleon since it performs well in the most part against the common leads, just make sure that you have backup options for Metagross, Machamp and Zapdos lead. Set up Stealth Rock turn 1 most of the time, since almost nothing really prevents Empoleon from doing that and Pokemon like Azelf may be reluctant to use Taunt in fear of a Hydro Pump. Switch your Empoleon into powerful Special Attackers like Specs Latias, Kingdra, Suicune and use the opportunity to use Roar or Knock Off to cripple the opposing team. Keep in mind to use Protect as much as you can, as it's important to keep Empoleon as healthy as possible. Try to not be too predictable ("use protect as much as you can" "try not to be to predictable" this is contradictory, protect should be used to benefit from passive leftovers recovery and scout moves but you should wary people to not use it too much in order not to be too predictable and allow free switch ins) in this aspect, as Pokemon like Tyranitar, Metagross or Dragonite may come in on a telegraphed Protect and scare Empoleon out. You can use Empoleon to pivot against Gengar's Shadow Ball and throw a Surf if it's in range, it's also worth knowing that this Empoleon is one of the best defensive answers to Jirachi.

Team Options
========
Specially defensive Empoleon does require some support, since it's too passive against setup sweepers and defensive teams. Having a strong Physically defensive backbone with this Empoleon is crucial, because it can't handle Pokemons like Breloom, Tyranitar, Dragonite and Gyarados nicely (it is not that clear for newer players, a clearer way would be: empoleon's teammates should try to lessen the impact of its numerous weaknesses and the potential set up it would allow while also providing solid countermeasures against defensive patterns to compensate for its mediocre matchup against clefable and free momentum it can give. That said, for a great defensive synergy, teammates should mainly try patch for Fighting-, Ground- and Electric-types moves as empoleon's slowness makes it prone to being abused by the strongest powerhouses of the tiers + examples if you want. In such a case, phys def skarmory,which is one of the greatest phys wall, is an excellent one + setting up spikes is a big thing to compensate for its passiveness, gliscor brings elec immun + fight ground resi and pressures stall, nidoqueen brings resistances and toxic spikes, bulky Latias bring resistances and can synergise with spikes + roar. Scarf variants of rotom-a get the jump on dangerous foes like infernape or +1 gyarados dnite that empoleon fears + prevent rapid spin while restalk variants can absorb Breloom's spore/superpower to compensate for its slowness. on the other hand, Gengar brings similar defensive utility and threatens defensive teams especially with taunt will o wisp set + spikes). Spikes and Toxic Spikes support is very much appreciated especially with Roar ; Skarmory, Forretress and Nidoqueen all allows for it while providing some Physical insurance as well (maybe should reword that according to changes to avoid repetition, but its up to you). Wish users such as Latias, Jirachi and Clefable are valuable, as it gives Empoleon way more longevity. You also need some sort of pressure outside of Hazards or Clefable is just sitting on you all day. Gliscor is an amazing stallbreaker, also provides strong Defensive utility against Pokemon like Lucario, Dragonite and Tyranitar. Gengar, as mentionned previously, gives defensive teams a hard time while providing Infernape and Breloom countermeasure. Breloom takes advantage of Clefable wonderfully while Calm Mind Latias and Calm Mind Clefable are both great win conditions against defensive teams. Not to forget that Clefable and Breloom can also sponge Will-o-wisp from Rotom-A that Empoleon should try to avoid.

- Ttar can get a deserved mention, although they accumulate some shared weaknesses, Ttar gets up sandstorm which synergies with empoleon typing / the use of protect to rack up additional dmg while healing. It can also pursuit trap Starmie to keep spikes and helps at sponging Electric-type moves / trick and ko rotom or even pursuit clefable

- scarf magnezone can function to eliminate lucario and limits the spikes factor that empoelon does not appreciate, however compensate for shared weaknesses again


[SET]
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Hydro Pump
move 2: Surf
move 3: Ice Beam
move 4: Grass Knot
item: Choice Specs
ability: Torrent
nature: Modest
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Empoleon's taking another approach with that set, maximizing its raw power with Choice Specs.

Hydro Pump is simply devastating ; with Choice Specs, Empoleon has a chance of OHKOing max HP Metagross, always takes out all Azelf leads, and flips the table against bulky Jirachi and bulky Bronzong in turning a low chance of 2HKO into a very guaranteed one. One of the main key asset that brings Choice Specs Empoleon compared to the regular one shows up against Clefable and Specially Defensive Jirachi ; two Pokemon that would typically barely check Empoleon are now 2HKOed guaranteed (252+ SpA Choice Specs Empoleon Hydro Pump vs. 252 HP / 224+ SpD Jirachi: 213-252 (52.7 - 62.3%) -- 99.6% chance to 2HKO after Leftovers recovery -> in theory, not really exact + rachi has protect so make it exact in the description), which is huge because they can't anymore come in freely on a Hydro Pump. Anything that does not resist Water-type will get swallowed up by a Specs boosted Hydro Pump, and even then Pokemon that resists it like Breloom, Starmie, bulk less Suicune and Latias are still taking a ton of damage. Surf is the second best STAB option, less destructive but still very good in terms of power thanks to Choice Specs. It's also a more safe spammable move than Hydro Pump thanks to its perfect accuracy and higher PPs. Ice beam covers Latias and Grass-types like Celebi and Shaymin that resists Empoleon's Water STABs, while Grass Knot destroys Water types that resists Ice and Water coverage such as Milotic and Suicune. The extra Ice Beam and Grass Knot damage are key in making the 2HKO on Pokemon like Kingdra and Gyarados.

Set Details
========
Maximize Empoleon's power with 252 EVs in Special Attack and a Modest nature in order to hit as hard as ever, it's absolutely crucial to maintain its benchmarks against Jirachi and Clefable and deal them as much damage as possible. The remaining EVs goes into its Speed in order to outrun as many Pokemons as possible. Note that a few EVs in HP may be useful to improve the odds of living a Thunderbolt from Rotom-A, or to just help against the likes of Jirachi and Tyranitar.

Usage Tips
========
Everytime you have Empoleon on the field, fire off powerful Hydro Pumps and see what's coming in (you would not throw hydro on lead roserade or gyarados). Since this set should lead you can use it to throw powered up Water STABs early game and chip Empoleon's typical checks. If you're facing an offensive team, the first safe switch-in to a Specs Hydro Pump is usually Latias. If you're facing a defensive team, odds are the best switch-ins are going to be Milotic, a bulky Latias or a bulky Suicune (support Clefable is the best answer and gets destroyed by the surprise factor which is a reason why you rly wanna scout with hydro early, otherwise those are ok switchins but not the the first that comes to my mind). Depending on what got revealed and the state of the game you might want to click other moves and predict a bit, to take out a Latias with Ice Beam or a Suicune with Grass Knot for example. Use Empoleon's great typing to switch around resisted moves and find opportunities to throw as much attacks as you can in the middle of the game. Like the Lead set, try to manage its health as much as possible to possibly enter Torrent which will end up being devastative, especially against slow paced teams that might have a hard time forcing it out immediatly.

Team Options
========
Tyranitar has very good synergy with Specs Empoleon because it can trap both Latias and Blissey who are two of the few Pokemons that are able to switch into a Specs Hydro Pump (sandstorm is big for water resistances like milotic cune tias mie etc..). Jirachi can spread paralysis with Body Slam very nicely to support and compensate Empoleon's low Speed that prevents it to be fully threatening against fast paced teams. Since this Empoleon should lead, make sure that you have a good backup against Electric-types like Rotom and Zapdos ; Pokemon like Blissey, Clefable, Swampert or a bulky Tyranitar are all great for that purpose. Pokemon like Specs Kingdra and Suicune helps keeping up the offensive pressure given by Empoleon with more Water spam. Finally, Healing Wish Latias can give Empoleon a second life if it got weakened badly.

-empoleon has to lock itself onto a move which means that after a KO it has a to good chance to be forced out. That said, it really appreciates having access to at least a one time pivoting against Ground- Fighting- and Electric-Type moves. rotom latias gengar main ones, could fit with flygon dragonite or even gliscor/nidoqueen but wouldnt mind skiping them

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
Chople Berry is an alternative on the Agility set, however it remains very team dependant, inferior and not as useful as the other berries like Shuca and Wacan because even with Chople you are not taking Fighting moves that well from the likes of Infernape, Breloom and Lucario (as another option, empoleon could fairly run a chopple + sr set if it is not on the lead slot as it can stand against ape/loom/ttar attacks and great rachi lati offensive check + great pressure). Yawn can be used as a filler over Stealth Rock on a midgame set, forces switches and benefits to Empoleon to try catching some kills. Rest plus Sleep Talk, or Aqua Ring are possible options on the Specially Defensive set to improve Empoleon's longevity in providing it some sort of extra recovery, however you will need to drop moves like Protect and/or Stealth Rock to make room for them. Icy Wind and Feather Dance find their use against Setup Sweepers like Gyarados and Metagross that would like to setup on Empoleon for free, the former reduces Speed while the latter makes sure to reduce Attack by 2 stages. Feather Dance on the Specially Defensive set is also great in conjunction with hazards, since you will force out physical attackers.

- choice specs sleep talker is in term of role compression + potential use of it is interesting, however other moves are rly wanted and empoleon has to risk the fighting move against breloom + does not rly switch momentum against roserade

- mention the leftovers modest one we discussed about if you wish to


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

**Choice Scarf Users**: Choice Scarfers like Scarf Rotom-A and Scarf Flygon can revenge kill Empoleon after one Agility with Thunderbolt and Earthquake respectively. Scarf Latias can use Thunderbolt, Thunder Wave or even Trick to lock it into Ice Beam, which completely invalidates Empoleon.

**Special Walls**: Clefable and Blissey are both extremely annoying for Empoleon, the former can stall out Hydro Pumps with a combination of Soft-Boiled and potentially Protect, while the latter can cripple Empoleon with Thunder Wave and will never die to Hydro Pump. Specially Defensive Jirachi is at best 3OKHOed by Empoleon's Hydro Pump, it can chain Wishes and Protects and stall out Hydro Pumps while crippling Empoleon with Body Slam.

**Water Resists**: Among all the Pokemon resisting Water-type, Abomasnow is one of the most irritating. In addition of its good bulk and the fact that it is not weak to Ice Beam, Abomasnow summons Hail, which means Empoleon is consistently chipped down. Abomasnow can also use Leech Seed and Protect to easily stay Healthy and makes Empoleon completely worthless. Funnily enough Specially Defensive Empoleon is a good check to the Agility one, as it takes very little damage from Grass Knot and can eventually phaze it out with Roar. Calm Mind Latias potentially walls Empoleon if it boosts up too much, then Empoleon has to rely on an Ice Beam freeze if Latias becomesout of control. It is worth mentionning that Milotic, Suicune and Starmie all walls SubPetaya Empoleon because it lacks Grass Knot. Lastly, despite the fact that Vaporeon is rarely seen nowadays it remains obnoxious for Empoleon to deal with, as it takes nothing from Grass Knot due to its weight.

**Trappers**: Magnezone is sort of a check to Empoleon. Against the Agility set it can come in full health, live a Hydro Pump and revenge kill it with Thunderbolt, while against the Specially Defensive set Magnezone is faster and Surf does not enough damages. Dugtrio can trap any Empoleon with Earthquake as long as it don't get an Agility up.

**Offensive Threats Fighting- Electric- and Ground-Type users**: Empoelon's Ground- Electric- and Fighting-Type weaknesses makes it abusable by the most popular and strongest powerhouses of the tier. Zapdos threatens all Empoleons with Thunderbolt, and can eventually check it pretty nicely if it's heavily invested in Special Defense. Thunder Jirachi 2HKOs most Empoleons without bulk, and if the latter gets paralyzed it reduces significantly its effectiveness. Fighting-types like Infernape, Lucario and Breloom can force Empoleon out with their STABs, especially if they got Mach Punch and Empoleon is at low health. Gengar nails it with Focus Blast, Starmie thunderbolt Tyranitar is usually bulky enough to take one hit from Empoleon, and damage it back with either Superpower or Earthquake. Earthquake users namely gyarados dd/scarf ttar and dnite or even otr zong deal tremendous dmg to Empoleon.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Sakito, 433460]]
- Quality checked by: [[Excal, 456373], [, ]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]
 
Last edited:

Lumari

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[OVERVIEW]

Empoleon's excellent Water / Steel-type typing, well-rounded stats, (AC) and decent movepool makes it a great Pokemon on in the DPP landscape. Its unique typing provides it with key resistances such as Dragon and Water, which makes Empoleon the only Pokemon in the metagame that resists both of Kingdra's STAB moves in addition to the Choice Specs Latias's Draco Meteor and + Surf combo of Specs Latias combination. It's Its Dark and Rock resistances makes it able also enable it to take on both of Tyranitar's STAB moves (RC) while also providing Empoleon it with a Stealth Rock resistance. Empoleon also has the privilege distinction of being a super good answer to Jirachi, as it resists both Iron Head (RC) and Body Slam (RC) and is not weak to Fire Punch. Empoleon owns has access to the most powerful Hydro Pump of all OU Pokemon; in addition to when it's boosted by its ability Torrent which can increase significantly its strenght, Empoleon can deliver unrivaled power on the field, making it even more threatening in a metagame where usual teams are suffering from the a lack of a real Water-type resistance. Empoleon is usually seen as an offensive powerhouse thanks to its access to Agility, (AC) which, paired with its high Special Attack and good coverage, (AC) turns it into a fearsome sweeper. However, outside of its ability Torrent, Empoleon has no means to boost its Special Attack, which can be a drawback in prevent it from hitting some Pokemon hard enough some Pokemons. Finally, Empoleon also has access to utility moves like Stealth Rock, Roar, (AC) and even Knock Off, (AC) which is a big tool against defensive teams. Its low Speed stat is one of it's its major main cons; Empoleon has to run a Timid nature to outspeed Choice Scarf Rotom-A and Adamant Choice Scarf Flygon, which is not always ideal because it usually wants all the power it can have. While it can take special hits effectively thanks to its good bulk, Empoleon is vulnerable to common coverages types in the metagame, such as Ground, Fighting, (AC) and Electric.

[SET]
name: Lead
move 1: Hydro Pump
move 2: Grass Knot
move 3: Stealth Rock / Ice Beam
move 4: Aqua Jet / Ice Beam / Knock Off
item: Focus Sash
ability: Torrent
nature: Modest / Rash
evs: 252 SpA / 4 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Empoleon is one of the best leads in the DPP OU metagame. Its ability to quickly put pressure against both offensive and defensive teams while being able to set up Stealth Rock makes it a tremendous lead.

Hydro Pump is Empoleon's primary STAB move, which deals significant damage to almost everything in the metagame, even some Water resists Pokemon that resist it like Breloom and Starmie. Thanks to its high Special Attack, (AC) Empoleon is able to 2HKO the common leads like Metagross, Machamp, Jirachi, and Azelf (RC) or weaken a Pokemon that switches in. (RH) Grass Knot is the near-mandatory (AH) coverage move for Empoleon, as it enables it to hit super effectively Water-type Pokemons Pokemon such as Starmie super effectively, which means Empoleon will consistently maintain rocks Stealth Rock up against the best Rapid spinner of OU. Swampert, Suicune, Milotic, Gyarados, and Kingdra are other targets Empoleon much appreciates much being able to hit. Empoleon is a fantastic Stealth Rock setter; its favorable match-up matchup against a lot of leads helps it get Stealth Rock up easily most of the time, furthermore and its coverage moves paired with its powerful Hydro Pump can be difficult to switch into (RH) for both offensive teams and defensive teams. (period) None of the common leads (or "none of their leads"? like Jirachi, Hippowdon, (AC) or and Tyranitar wants want to take a Hydro Pump, (AC) so they're usually forced to switch out, (RH) enduring leaving themselves subject to the opposing offensive pressure and giving up the chance to set up their own Stealth Rock early. On top of that, thanks to its Focus Sash, (AC) Empoleon will always avoid any KO while also getting in Torrent range, even against Clefable's Seismic Toss, (AC) which is a 4HKO. Aqua Jet serves as an all-purpose (AH) priority STAB move which that is used to finish off Focus Sash leads like Azelf or and Metagross or just getting overall chip damage that might come in handy later on, for example such as against the likes of Heatran and Gengar. Ice Beam is an additional coverage move mainly used to hit super effectively Dragonite, Latias, (AC) and Grass-types such as Breloom, Shaymin and Celebi super effectively, which otherwise resists resist Empoleon's Water / Grass (dash to slash) coverage. As for Lastly, Knock Off, it's is another option that helps crippling cripple potential early-game Empoleon's switch-ins that might want to come in early game like defensive Jirachi, Clefable, Blissey, Latias, and Grass-types (AH) like Celebi and Abomasnow.

Set Details
========
Pump Empoleon's Special Attack with 252 Special Attack EVs and a Modest nature in order enable Empoleon to hit as hard as possible, while the remaining 252 EVs goes go in Speed so Empoleon can outspeed major threats such as Machamp and Speed tie with fast Swampert. While Modest looks like the best nature, Rash is another option that doesn't compromise Aqua Jet's power in reducing Empoleon's attack, which can help getting get nice chip damage on Pokemons Pokemon like Heatran and Gengar. Keep in mind that generally it's not worth minimizing the Empoleon's Special Defense, though, since Empoleon it is likely to take one or two hits from the likes of Latias and Suicune. Timid is not an option because Empoleon wants to deal as much damage as possible to Pokemons Pokemon like Jirachi and Clefable, which wouldn't be nearly as pressured without a +Special Attack-boosting nature. Focus Sash fits Empoleon perfectly, (AC) as it allows it to live tank any hit from the likes of Zapdos, Rotom-A and Flygon and strike back with a Torrent-boosted (AH) Hydro Pump.

Usage Tips
========
If you're facing a lead that is very threatening to your whole team (RC) like Machamp and or Zapdos that can be pain to deal with for offense, you might want to throw a Hydro Pump immediatly immediately to weaken or even KO them. However, know that this scenario implies that you won't be able to set up Stealth Rock. In easier matchups, usually set up Stealth Rock turn 1 and throw out the appropriate attack to weaken the opposing lead. Keep in mind the synergy beetwen between Focus Sash and Torrent; (SC) once Empoleon activates his its Focus Sash, (AC) it gets in Torrent range, (AC) which means it is able to fire off a powerful Hydro Pump that almost nothing can stand. Against offensive teams, if you managed to keep your Empoleon alive against the opposing lead, try to preserve it as a sack fodder, (AC) which may turn out pretty useful to regain momentum. Its Empoleon's typing also allows it to come into multiple times on the field multiple times, and it may find opportunities to throw out attacks or set Stealth Rock back up if needed. Against more defensive teams, Empoleon tends to be chipped down much more slowly, (AC) so try to manage its health as much as you can in order to use Torrent at to your advantage and put pressure on foes like Clefable or and specially defensive Jirachi that should typically check Empoleon. If Empoleon is in Torrent range, try to bring it on the field on a predicted switch or once the enemy is forced to use a recovery move.

Team Options
========
Thanks to Empoleon's versatility, it combines pairs well with many different Pokemon. Teammates that benefits from the early offensive pressure and momentum set up by Empoleon are much appreciated. Dragon Dance sweepers such as Gyarados and Dragonite helps help in keeping up the offensive pace pressure, especially if Empoleon has weakened the opponent's Latias or Water-types have been weakened by Empoleon. Jirachi is very useful to those typical offensive teams, since it can run various sets and support its team at its convenience. It's one of the few Pokemon on offense that keeps in check all of Lucario, Scizor, Starmie, (AC) and Tyranitar, while taking well and also takes on Dragon-types and other Jirachis opposing Jirachi well. Tyranitar is very desirable because it traps both Latias and Rotom-A and supplies defensive utility in keeping up against Pokemon like Zapdos and Starmie, who which otherwise would be too much to deal with. Latias provides wonderful support on offense, keeps up against Pokemon like Breloom and Infernape defensively whithout without compromising offensive pressure with its Choice sets. Bronzong not only provides great a defensive backbone thanks to its typing and defensive stats (RC) but also can act as late-game (AH) cleaner with Trick Room, which goes well with Choice Band Tyranitar. Gengar brings a Fighting / Ground immunity immunities to Fighting and Ground to the table and is able to disrupt both offensive and defensive teams with Taunt, Will-O-Wisp, (AC) or even Explosion. Kingdra, Swampert, and Suicune are other great teammates more focused on the stacking Water-types Spam and abusing overloading the opposing Water-type checks. Finally, because sometimes Empoleon may not be able to set up its Stealth Rock against very specific leads like Machamp and Zapdos, you may want a second Stealth Rock setter in your team like Jirachi or Tyranitar.

[SET]
name: Agility
move 1: Agility
move 2: Hydro Pump / Surf
move 3: Ice Beam
move 4: Grass Knot / Substitute
item: Shuca Berry / Wacan Berry / Petaya Berry
ability: Torrent
nature: Modest / Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
This set allows Empoleon to compensate for its low Speed and become a terrifying sweeper.

Hydro Pump is the best STAB option due to its high Base Power; (SC) Surf is a possibility if you prefer a 100% accurate move, (AC) but you it might miss out on key damages against foes targets like Jirachi, Tyranitar, Rotom (-A?), Metagross, (AC) and Bronzong. Ice Beam covers Dragon- (AH) and Grass-types (AH) like Latias, Dragonite, Breloom, Celebi, (AC) and Shaymin, (AC) while Grass Knot deals with Water-types (AH) such as Swampert, Starmie, Suicune, and Milotic. This coverage combination Paired with Empoleon's Water STAB attack, finds it this move combination provides unresisted coverage in the metagame. Finally, Substitute can be used over Grass Knot, but should always be used with Petaya Berry. With this move, the idea is to get an set up Agility up and keep using Substitutes until you get to a low health point where both Petaya Berry and Torrent activates activate, which makes Empoleon more threatening than ever. However, keep in mind that the Substitute this option is more fishy less reliable (or more matchup dependent? idk but just use smth more descriptive) and will be less consistent overall, (AC) since you drop the gives up Grass coverage, and if you're Empoleon is in Petaya Berry range, (AC) this means you're it's also in priority range for priority attacks. Hidden Power Electric is another option that should be used only if you're really weak to Gyarados and can't afford to let it setup set up; (SC) it's overall worse than Grass Knot, (AC) because you Empoleon now can't hit Swampert as nicely hard anymore plus you're and becomes weaker against Pokemon like Starmie, Suicune, (AC) and Milotic.

Set Details
========
252 EVs in Special Attack to maximize the Empoleon's damage output, (AC) and 252 EVs in Speed to be make it as fast as possible after one Agility. A Modest nature is the way to go most of the time because of the higher power it gives to Empoleon, makes sure to ensuring it can 3HKO Pokemon like Clefable and Bronzong (RC) and does do significant more damage to bulky Jirachi. That said, (AC) Timid is also a pretty decent choice because it allows Empoleon to outrun Choice Scarf Rotom-A and Adamant Choice Scarf Flygon after one Agility, which can end up being gamebreaker sealing a game. Overall, a Modest nature looks better if you have Tyranitar's Pursuit support, while Timid doesn't necessarily require it. Shuca Berry is incredibly useful because it enables Empoleon to take an Earthquake from the likes of Choice Scarf Flygon, Dragonite, Gyarados, Swampert, Tyranitar, (AC) and Metagross. On the other hand, Wacan Berry ensures that Empoleon survives a Thunderbolt from Rotom-A, Zapdos, (AC) and Magnezone.

Usage Tips
========
Generally, because it rarely sweeps teams on its own, you want to scout and weaken the opposing team a bit if you aim for an Empoleon late-game (AH) sweep. Weakening Steel-types (AH) such as Jirachi, Magnezone, Bronzong, and Metagross and Pokemons Pokemon like Clefable, Tyranitar, (AC) and Latias helps in that measure regard. Try to keep your Empoleon hidden and healthy for the most part of the game until you reveal it, and wait for the ideal moment to bring it out. The best way to take advantage of Empoleon is to bring it on a Choice-locked (AH) Pokemon like Outrage-locked (AH) Flygon, Crunch- (AH) or Pursuit-locked (AH) Tyranitar, (AC) or Choice-locked (AH) Latias. Since Empoleon has a good bulk and good resistances, (AC) you it can also afford to take a hit from anything, it's which is even more doable if you it have has a Berry that halves damage from a super effective move. Due to its low Speed, using Agility once will not make Empoleon faster than everything except certain (optional) Choice Scarf users like Flygon, Rotom-A, Latias, and Jirachi, so sometimes if needed you it will have to find opportunities to set up a second Agility to outrun those.

Team Options
========
Pokemons Pokemon that helps help in making Empoleon's sweep easier are more than valued. Tyranitar is a big one, as it is able to Pursuit trap both Choice Scarf Rotom-A and Choice Scarf Latias, (AC) which are thorns in Empoleon's side. Heatran and Gengar are both amazing at pressuring Pokemons Pokemon like Jirachi, Clefable, and Blissey; the former can use Magma Storm and Taunt (RC) or Explosion to get rid of Clefable and Blissey, (AC) while the latter can use Will-O-Wisp to cripple specially defensive Jirachi (RC) as well as Explosion which lures greatly or effectively lure Clefable and Blissey and take them out with Explosion. Gengar also can force Pokemon like Flygon to use Outrage, which open the gates for Empoleon. Breloom, (AC) in the same vein, (AC) is excellent at taking advantage of special walls like Clefable and Blissey, especially if paired with Tyranitar, (AC) who which has great synergy with it. Because Empoleon is usually prone susceptible to priority moves like Mach Punch from the likes of Breloom and Infernape, Chople Berry + Dragon Dance Tyranitar does a good job in luring and removing those for Empoleon. Pokemons Pokemon like Kingdra and Suicune helps aswell help as well in forcing Jirachi and Clefable to take serious damages damage. Lastly, Choice Specs Latias can drop powerful Draco Meteors on the opposing special walls while also being a threat in its ability to Trick its Choice item threatening to shut down a defensive Pokemon with Trick. In case Empoleon gets weakened early or has to take a gets afflicted with status, Healing Wish Latias can be used and bring Empoleon back to full health.

[SET]
name: Specially Defensive
move 1: Surf
move 2: Protect
move 3: Roar / Knock Off
move 4: Stealth Rock
item: Leftovers
ability: Torrent
nature: Calm
evs: 252 HP / 252 SpD / 4 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Despite being a powerful offensive Pokemon, it appears that Empoleon is also a fantastic special wall thanks to its great typing, very good Special Defense, (AC) and its ability to check Pokemons Pokemon such as Choice Specs Latias, Jirachi, Heatran, Suicune, (AC) and most notably Kingdra.

Surf is Empoleon's best move for offensive pressure on this set. Protect enables Empoleon to passively recover more gain additional Leftovers recovery, (AC) which is precious valuable because it's its only form of recovery, as well as scout Choiced Pokemons Pokemon like Tyranitar, Latias, Flygon, (AC) and Rotom (-A?). Roar is very useful to phaze Pokemons Pokemon like Calm Mind Jirachi, Calm Mind Suicune, and Dragon Dance Kingdra (RC) and overall to be allow Empoleon to be less passive because Empoleon doesn't want to act like a sitting duck. Knock Off is an alternative and like Roar enables gives Empoleon to have a less passive presence on the field. Knock Off is excellent in long and slow low-paced (AH) games; (spacing) Empoleon can Knock Off cripple Jirachi, Suicune, Starmie, Clefable, and pretty much anything with Leftovers, preventing passive recovery and starting allowing its team to start making progress. Like the lead set, Empoleon's (cross-set reference) keeps its ability in being to be a great Stealth Rock setter, which is improved here thanks to Leftovers recovery and bulk investment. Toxic can be used to chip more effectively Pokemon like Starmie, Milotic, Kingdra, (AC) and Suicune more effectively.

Set Details
========
Investing 252 EVs in HP (RC) 252 EVs in and Special Defense as(space)well as providing Empoleon with a Calm nature ensures that it can perform its defensive role perfectly, as it wants to combat Starmie, Heatran, Latias, (AC) and Kingdra as well as possible. You could put in some Defense EVs to take better on Pokemon like Tyranitar and Bronzong better (RC) or even some Special Attack EVs to do more damage to the likes of Jirachi, Skarmory, (AC) and Tyranitar. Leftovers is the mandatory item here, being the best and only form of recovery for Empoleon.

Usage Tips
========
You can lead with this Empoleon, (AC) since it performs well in for the most part against the common leads; (SC) just make sure that you have backup options for Metagross, Machamp, (AC) and Zapdos leads. Set up Stealth Rock turn 1 most of the time, since almost nothing really prevents Empoleon from doing that, (AC) and Pokemon like Azelf may be reluctant to use Taunt in fear of a Hydro Pump. Switch your Empoleon into powerful special attackers like Choice Specs Latias, Kingdra, Suicune, (AC) and use the opportunity to use Roar or Knock Off to cripple the opposing team. Protect should be used relatively often, as it's important to keep Empoleon as healthy as possible. However, try to not use it too much and become too predictable in this aspect, as Pokemon like Tyranitar, Metagross, (AC) or and Dragonite may come in on a telegraphed Protect and scare Empoleon out. You can use Empoleon to pivot against Gengar's Shadow Ball and throw out a Surf if it's in its KO range; (SC) it's also worth knowing that this Empoleon is one of the best defensive answers to Jirachi.

Team Options
========
Specially defensive Empoleon does require some support, since it's too passive against setup sweepers and defensive teams. Empoleon's teammates should try to lessen the impact of its numerous weaknesses and the potential set up setup it would allow while also providing solid countermeasures against defensive patterns (backbones / cores?) to compensate for its mediocre matchup against Clefable and the free momentum it can give. That said, for a great defensive synergy, teammates should mainly try patching coverng Fighting-, Ground-, (AC) and Electric-types moves, (AC) as Empoleon's slowness makes it prone to being abused exploited by the strongest powerhouses of the tiers, such as Dragonite or and Gyarados. In such a case, Skarmory, which is one of the greatest physical walls, is an excellent one option, (AC) and setting up Spikes is a big thing to compensate for compensating for Empoleon's passiveness. Nidoqueen brings an Electric immunity as(space)well as a Fighting resistance (RC) and sets up Toxic Spikes, while bulky Latias provides a ton of resistances and can synergise synergize well with Spikes support and Roar. Choice Scarf Rotom-A gets the jump on dangerous foes like Infernape or and Dragon Dance sweepers like Gyarados and Dragonite that Empoleon fears. Rotom-A It also spinblocks opposing Rapid Spins Spin, (AC) while Rest Talk RestTalk variants can absorb Breloom's Spore and Superpower to compensate for its slowness. On the other hand, Gengar brings similar defensive utility and threatens defensive teams especially with Taunt, Will-O-Wisp, (AC) and Spikes support. Wish users such as Latias, Jirachi, (AC) and Clefable are valuable, as it gives they give Empoleon way more longevity. You also need some sort of pressure outside of entry hazards, (AC) or Clefable is will just sitting on your team all day. Gliscor is an amazing stallbreaker (RC) that also provides strong great defensive utility against Pokemon like Lucario, Dragonite, (AC) and Tyranitar. Gengar, as mentionned mentioned previously, gives defensive teams a hard time while providing a countermeasure to Infernape and Breloom countermeasure. Breloom takes advantage of Clefable wonderfully, (AC) while Calm Mind Latias and Calm Mind Clefable are both great win conditions wincons against defensive teams. Not to forget that Furthermore, (AC) Clefable and Breloom can also absorb Will-O-Wisp from Rotom-A, (AC) that which Empoleon should try to avoid. Lastly, Tyranitar is big because it summons Sandstorm which synergies its sand synergizes really well with Empoleon's typing and helps making good progress in the game, Tyranitar while it also helps in the hazard game by trapping opposing Starmie.

[SET]
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Hydro Pump
move 2: Surf
move 3: Ice Beam
move 4: Grass Knot
item: Choice Specs
ability: Torrent
nature: Modest
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Empoleon's taking another approach with that this set, maximizing its raw power with Choice Specs.

Hydro Pump is simply devastating; (spacing) with Choice Specs, Empoleon has a chance of OHKOing maximum HP Metagross, always takes out all Azelf leads, and flips turns the tables against bulky Jirachi and bulky Bronzong in by turning a low chance of a 2HKO into a very guaranteed one. One of the main key asset assets that brings Choice Specs Empoleon brings compared to the regular one sets shows up against Clefable and specially defensive Jirachi; (spacing) the former is 2HKO faces a guaranteed 2HKO, (AC) while the latter gets heavily damaged, which is huge because they it can't anymore come in freely on a Hydro Pump anymore. Anything that does not resist Water-type will get swallowed up by a Choice Specs-boosted (AH) Hydro Pump, and even then Pokemon that resists do resist it like Breloom, Starmie, bulk less uninvested Suicune, (AC) and Latias are still taking a ton of damage. Surf is the second best STAB option, which is less destructive but still very good in terms of power thanks to Choice Specs. It's also a more safe spammable move safer to spam than Hydro Pump thanks to its perfect accuracy and higher PPs PP. Ice Beam covers Latias and Grass-types like Celebi and Shaymin, (AC) that resists which resist Empoleon's Water STAB attacks, while Grass Knot destroys Water-types (AH) that resists Ice and Water coverage such as Milotic and Suicune. The extra power on Ice Beam and Grass Knot damage are is key in making securing the 2HKO on Pokemon like Kingdra and Gyarados.

Set Details
========
Maximize Empoleon's power with 252 EVs in Special Attack and a Modest nature in order to hit as hard as ever possible; (SC) it's absolutely crucial to maintain its benchmarks against Jirachi and Clefable and deal them as much damage as possible against them. The remaining EVs goes go into its Speed in order to outrun as many Pokemons Pokemon as possible. Note that a few EVs in HP may be useful to improve the odds of living taking a Thunderbolt from Rotom-A (RC) or just to just help against the likes of Jirachi and Tyranitar.

Usage Tips
========
Everytime you have Empoleon on the field, fire off powerful attacks depending on what you are facing. Since this set should be used as a lead, (AC) you can use it to throw powered-up (AH) Water STAB attacks early-game (AH) and chip Empoleon's typical checks. If you're facing an offensive team, the first safe switch-in to a Choice Specs Hydro Pump is usually Latias. If you're facing a defensive team, odds are the first switch-in would will be Clefable, which gets destroyed by Hydro Pump thanks to the surprise factor that Choice Specs Empoleon provides; (SC) the remaining possible best switch-ins are going to be Milotic, a bulky Latias, (AC) or a and bulky Suicune. Depending on what got foes have been revealed and the state of the game, (AC) you might want to click other moves and predict a bit, such as to take out a Latias with Ice Beam or a Suicune with Grass Knot for example. Use Empoleon's great typing to switch around resisted moves and find opportunities to throw as much many attacks as you can in the middle of the game. Like the Lead set, Try to manage its health as much as possible to possibly enter Torrent range, (AC) which will end up being devastative make it devastating, especially against slow paced teams that might have a hard time forcing it out immediatly immediately.

Team Options
========
Tyranitar has very good synergy with Choice Specs Empoleon because it can trap both Latias and Blissey, (AC) who are two of the few Pokemons Pokemon that are able to switch into a Choice Specs Hydro Pump, plus Sandstorm and its sand is huge since it cancels for negating Leftovers from the likes of Milotic and Suicune. Jirachi can spread paralysis with Body Slam very nicely to support Empoleon and compensate Empoleon's for its low Speed, (AC) that which prevents it to be from being fully threatening against fast paced teams. Since this Empoleon shoud lead, make sure that you have a good backup against Electric-types like Rotom (-A?) and Zapdos; (spacing) Pokemon like Blissey, Clefable, Swampert, (AC) or a and bulky Tyranitar are all great for that purpose. Empoleon appreciates having at least a one time pivoting Pokemon a teammate that can pivot at least once against Ground-, Electric-, and Fighting-type moves like Latias, Rotom, (AC, also same) or and Gengar, since this Empoleon has to lock itself on a move and will be easily forced out. Pokemon like Choice Specs Kingdra and Suicune helps keeping help keep up the Empoleon's offensive pressure given by Empoleon with more strong Water spam attacks. Finally, Healing Wish Latias can give Empoleon a second life if it got weakened badly.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
Chople Berry is an alternative on the Agility set; (SC) however, (AC) it remains very team dependant dependent, inferior, (AC) and not as useful as the other Berries like Shuca and Wacan, (AC) because even with Chople you are Berry, Empoleon is not taking Fighting-type moves that well from the likes of Infernape, Breloom, (AC) and Lucario that well. Alternatively, a mid-game Chople midgame Berry set with Stealth Rock can be used as it can stand again the likes of Infernape, Breloom, (AC) and Lucario and still keeps up against Jirachi and Latias. Yawn can be used as a filler move over Stealth Rock on a midgame mid-game set, forces forcing switches and benefits to enabling Empoleon to try catching some kills KOs. Rest plus Sleep Talk, or RestTalk and Aqua Ring are possible options on the specially defensive set to improve Empoleon's longevity in providing it some sort of extra recovery; (SC) however, (AC) you will need to drop moves like Protect and/or Stealth Rock to make room for them. Icy Wind and Feather Dance find their use against setup sweepers like Gyarados and Metagross (clear body) that would like to setup set up on Empoleon for free, the former reduces Speed while the latter makes sure to reduce Attack by 2 stages. Feather Dance on the Specially Defensive set is also great in conjunction with entry hazards on the specially defensive set, since you will to force out physical attackers. The Choice Specs set can make room for Sleep Talk; (SC) however, (AC) it really wants all the four moves it has already.

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

**Choice Scarf Users**: Choice Scarf users like Scarf Rotom-A and Scarf Flygon can revenge kill Empoleon even after one Agility with Thunderbolt and Earthquake respectively their STAB moves. Choice Scarf Latias can use Thunderbolt, Thunder Wave, (AC) or even Trick to lock it Empoleon into Ice Beam, which completely invalidates Empoleon it.

**Special Walls**: Clefable and Blissey are both extremely annoying for Empoleon; (SC) the former can stall out Hydro Pumps Pump's PP with a combination of Soft-Boiled and potentially Protect, while the latter can cripple Empoleon with Thunder Wave and will never die faint to Hydro Pump. Specially defensive Jirachi is at best 3OKHOed 3HKOed by Empoleon's Hydro Pump, and it can chain Wishes and Protects and stall out Hydro Pumps Pump while crippling Empoleon with Body Slam.

**Pokemon that Resist Water Resists**: Among all the Pokemon resisting Water-type moves, Abomasnow is one of the most irritating. In addition of its good bulk and the fact that it is not lack of a weakness to Ice Beam, Abomasnow summons Hail, which its hail means Empoleon is consistently chipped down. Abomasnow can also use Leech Seed and Protect to easily stay healthy and makes make Empoleon completely worthless. Funnily enough, (AC) specially defensive Empoleon is a good check to the Agility one its own Agility set, as it takes very little damage from Grass Knot and can eventually phaze it out with Roar. Calm Mind Latias potentially walls Empoleon if it boosts up too much, then meaning Empoleon has to rely on an Ice Beam freeze if Latias becomesout gets out of control. It is worth mentionning mentioning that Milotic, Suicune, (AC) and Starmie all walls wall SubPetaya Empoleon because it lacks Grass Knot. Lastly, despite the fact that Vaporeon is rarely seen, (AC) nowadays it remains obnoxious for Empoleon to deal with, as it takes almost nothing from Grass Knot due to its weight.

**Trappers**: Magnezone is sort of a situational check to Empoleon. Against the Agility set, (AC) it can come in at full health, live tank a Hydro Pump, (AC) and revenge kill it with Thunderbolt, while against it outspeeds the specially defensive set Magnezone is faster and Surf does not take enough damages damage from Surf. Dugtrio can trap any Empoleon and take it out with Earthquake as long as it don't doesn't get an Agility up.

**Fighting-, (AC) Electric-, (AC) and Ground-type Move users**: Empoleon's Ground-, (AC) Electric-, (AC) and Fighting-type weaknesses makes it abusable by allow the most popular and strongest powerhouses of the tier to take advantage of it. Zapdos threatens all Empoleons Empoleon with Thunderbolt (RC) and can eventually (not sure what this means in this context) check it pretty nicely if it's heavily invested in Special Defense. Thunder Jirachi 2HKOs 2HKOes most Empoleons Empoleon without bulk investment (RC) and if the latter gets paralyzed it reduces can significantly reduce its effectiveness with paralysis. Fighting-types like Infernape, Lucario, (AC) and Breloom can force Empoleon out with their STAB attacks, especially if they got are running Mach Punch and Empoleon is at low health. Gengar nails Empoleon with Focus Blast, while offensive Starmie does enough damage with Thunderbolt to scare Empoleon out. Tyranitar is usually bulky enough to take one hit from Empoleon (RC) and damage it back with either Superpower or Earthquake. Finally, Pokemon like Gyarados, Dragonite, (AC) or and even offensive Bronzong can deal tremendous damage to Empoleon with Earthquake.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Sakito, 433460]]
- Quality checked by: [[Excal, 456373], [Emeral, 72767]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]
 
remove add / fix (comments); (AC=add comma; RC=remove comma; SC=semicolon)
GP 1/2
using https://spo.ink/gpvideo to implement
[OVERVIEW]

Empoleon's excellent Water / Steel-type typing, well-rounded stats, (AC) and decent movepool makes it a great Pokemon on in the DPP landscape. Its unique typing provides it with key resistances such as Dragon and Water, which makes Empoleon the only Pokemon in the metagame that resists both of Kingdra's STAB moves in addition to the Choice Specs Latias's Draco Meteor and + Surf combo of Specs Latias combination. It's Its Dark and Rock resistances makes it able also enable it to take on both of Tyranitar's STAB moves (RC) while also providing Empoleon it with a Stealth Rock resistance. Empoleon also has the privilege distinction of being a super good answer to Jirachi, as it resists both Iron Head (RC) and Body Slam (RC) and is not weak to Fire Punch. Empoleon owns has access to the most powerful Hydro Pump of all OU Pokemon; in addition to when it's boosted by its ability Torrent which can increase significantly its strenght, Empoleon can deliver unrivaled power on the field, making it even more threatening in a metagame where usual teams are suffering from the a lack of a real Water-type resistance. Empoleon is usually seen as an offensive powerhouse thanks to its access to Agility, (AC) which, paired with its high Special Attack and good coverage, (AC) turns it into a fearsome sweeper. However, outside of its ability Torrent, Empoleon has no means to boost its Special Attack, which can be a drawback in prevent it from hitting some Pokemon hard enough some Pokemons. Finally, Empoleon also has access to utility moves like Stealth Rock, Roar, (AC) and even Knock Off, (AC) which is a big tool against defensive teams. Its low Speed stat is one of it's its major main cons; Empoleon has to run a Timid nature to outspeed Choice Scarf Rotom-A and Adamant Choice Scarf Flygon, which is not always ideal because it usually wants all the power it can have. While it can take special hits effectively thanks to its good bulk, Empoleon is vulnerable to common coverages types in the metagame, such as Ground, Fighting, (AC) and Electric.

[SET]
name: Lead
move 1: Hydro Pump
move 2: Grass Knot
move 3: Stealth Rock / Ice Beam
move 4: Aqua Jet / Ice Beam / Knock Off
item: Focus Sash
ability: Torrent
nature: Modest / Rash
evs: 252 SpA / 4 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Empoleon is one of the best leads in the DPP OU metagame. Its ability to quickly put pressure against both offensive and defensive teams while being able to set up Stealth Rock makes it a tremendous lead.

Hydro Pump is Empoleon's primary STAB move, which deals significant damage to almost everything in the metagame, even some Water resists Pokemon that resist it like Breloom and Starmie. Thanks to its high Special Attack, (AC) Empoleon is able to 2HKO the common leads like Metagross, Machamp, Jirachi, and Azelf (RC) or weaken a Pokemon that switches in. (RH) Grass Knot is the near-mandatory (AH) coverage move for Empoleon, as it enables it to hit super effectively Water-type Pokemons Pokemon such as Starmie super effectively, which means Empoleon will consistently maintain rocks Stealth Rock up against the best Rapid spinner of OU. Swampert, Suicune, Milotic, Gyarados, and Kingdra are other targets Empoleon much appreciates much being able to hit. Empoleon is a fantastic Stealth Rock setter; its favorable match-up matchup against a lot of leads helps it get Stealth Rock up easily most of the time, furthermore and its coverage moves paired with its powerful Hydro Pump can be difficult to switch into (RH) for both offensive teams and defensive teams. (period) None of the common leads (or "none of their leads"? like Jirachi, Hippowdon, (AC) or and Tyranitar wants want to take a Hydro Pump, (AC) so they're usually forced to switch out, (RH) enduring leaving themselves subject to the opposing offensive pressure and giving up the chance to set up their own Stealth Rock early. On top of that, thanks to its Focus Sash, (AC) Empoleon will always avoid any KO while also getting in Torrent range, even against Clefable's Seismic Toss, (AC) which is a 4HKO. Aqua Jet serves as an all-purpose (AH) priority STAB move which that is used to finish off Focus Sash leads like Azelf or and Metagross or just getting overall chip damage that might come in handy later on, for example such as against the likes of Heatran and Gengar. Ice Beam is an additional coverage move mainly used to hit super effectively Dragonite, Latias, (AC) and Grass-types such as Breloom, Shaymin and Celebi super effectively, which otherwise resists resist Empoleon's Water / Grass (dash to slash) coverage. As for Lastly, Knock Off, it's is another option that helps crippling cripple potential early-game Empoleon's switch-ins that might want to come in early game like defensive Jirachi, Clefable, Blissey, Latias, and Grass-types (AH) like Celebi and Abomasnow.

Set Details
========
Pump Empoleon's Special Attack with 252 Special Attack EVs and a Modest nature in order enable Empoleon to hit as hard as possible, while the remaining 252 EVs goes go in Speed so Empoleon can outspeed major threats such as Machamp and Speed tie with fast Swampert. While Modest looks like the best nature, Rash is another option that doesn't compromise Aqua Jet's power in reducing Empoleon's attack, which can help getting get nice chip damage on Pokemons Pokemon like Heatran and Gengar. Keep in mind that generally it's not worth minimizing the Empoleon's Special Defense, though, since Empoleon it is likely to take one or two hits from the likes of Latias and Suicune. Timid is not an option because Empoleon wants to deal as much damage as possible to Pokemons Pokemon like Jirachi and Clefable, which wouldn't be nearly as pressured without a +Special Attack-boosting nature. Focus Sash fits Empoleon perfectly, (AC) as it allows it to live tank any hit from the likes of Zapdos, Rotom-A and Flygon and strike back with a Torrent-boosted (AH) Hydro Pump.

Usage Tips
========
If you're facing a lead that is very threatening to your whole team (RC) like Machamp and or Zapdos that can be pain to deal with for offense, you might want to throw a Hydro Pump immediatly immediately to weaken or even KO them. However, know that this scenario implies that you won't be able to set up Stealth Rock. In easier matchups, usually set up Stealth Rock turn 1 and throw out the appropriate attack to weaken the opposing lead. Keep in mind the synergy beetwen between Focus Sash and Torrent; (SC) once Empoleon activates his its Focus Sash, (AC) it gets in Torrent range, (AC) which means it is able to fire off a powerful Hydro Pump that almost nothing can stand. Against offensive teams, if you managed to keep your Empoleon alive against the opposing lead, try to preserve it as a sack fodder, (AC) which may turn out pretty useful to regain momentum. Its Empoleon's typing also allows it to come into multiple times on the field multiple times, and it may find opportunities to throw out attacks or set Stealth Rock back up if needed. Against more defensive teams, Empoleon tends to be chipped down much more slowly, (AC) so try to manage its health as much as you can in order to use Torrent at to your advantage and put pressure on foes like Clefable or and specially defensive Jirachi that should typically check Empoleon. If Empoleon is in Torrent range, try to bring it on the field on a predicted switch or once the enemy is forced to use a recovery move.

Team Options
========
Thanks to Empoleon's versatility, it combines pairs well with many different Pokemon. Teammates that benefits from the early offensive pressure and momentum set up by Empoleon are much appreciated. Dragon Dance sweepers such as Gyarados and Dragonite helps help in keeping up the offensive pace pressure, especially if Empoleon has weakened the opponent's Latias or Water-types have been weakened by Empoleon. Jirachi is very useful to those typical offensive teams, since it can run various sets and support its team at its convenience. It's one of the few Pokemon on offense that keeps in check all of Lucario, Scizor, Starmie, (AC) and Tyranitar, while taking well and also takes on Dragon-types and other Jirachis opposing Jirachi well. Tyranitar is very desirable because it traps both Latias and Rotom-A and supplies defensive utility in keeping up against Pokemon like Zapdos and Starmie, who which otherwise would be too much to deal with. Latias provides wonderful support on offense, keeps up against Pokemon like Breloom and Infernape defensively whithout without compromising offensive pressure with its Choice sets. Bronzong not only provides great a defensive backbone thanks to its typing and defensive stats (RC) but also can act as late-game (AH) cleaner with Trick Room, which goes well with Choice Band Tyranitar. Gengar brings a Fighting / Ground immunity immunities to Fighting and Ground to the table and is able to disrupt both offensive and defensive teams with Taunt, Will-O-Wisp, (AC) or even Explosion. Kingdra, Swampert, and Suicune are other great teammates more focused on the stacking Water-types Spam and abusing overloading the opposing Water-type checks. Finally, because sometimes Empoleon may not be able to set up its Stealth Rock against very specific leads like Machamp and Zapdos, you may want a second Stealth Rock setter in your team like Jirachi or Tyranitar.

[SET]
name: Agility
move 1: Agility
move 2: Hydro Pump / Surf
move 3: Ice Beam
move 4: Grass Knot / Substitute
item: Shuca Berry / Wacan Berry / Petaya Berry
ability: Torrent
nature: Modest / Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
This set allows Empoleon to compensate for its low Speed and become a terrifying sweeper.

Hydro Pump is the best STAB option due to its high Base Power; (SC) Surf is a possibility if you prefer a 100% accurate move, (AC) but you it might miss out on key damages against foes targets like Jirachi, Tyranitar, Rotom (-A?), Metagross, (AC) and Bronzong. Ice Beam covers Dragon- (AH) and Grass-types (AH) like Latias, Dragonite, Breloom, Celebi, (AC) and Shaymin, (AC) while Grass Knot deals with Water-types (AH) such as Swampert, Starmie, Suicune, and Milotic. This coverage combination Paired with Empoleon's Water STAB attack, finds it this move combination provides unresisted coverage in the metagame. Finally, Substitute can be used over Grass Knot, but should always be used with Petaya Berry. With this move, the idea is to get an set up Agility up and keep using Substitutes until you get to a low health point where both Petaya Berry and Torrent activates activate, which makes Empoleon more threatening than ever. However, keep in mind that the Substitute this option is more fishy less reliable (or more matchup dependent? idk but just use smth more descriptive) and will be less consistent overall, (AC) since you drop the gives up Grass coverage, and if you're Empoleon is in Petaya Berry range, (AC) this means you're it's also in priority range for priority attacks. Hidden Power Electric is another option that should be used only if you're really weak to Gyarados and can't afford to let it setup set up; (SC) it's overall worse than Grass Knot, (AC) because you Empoleon now can't hit Swampert as nicely hard anymore plus you're and becomes weaker against Pokemon like Starmie, Suicune, (AC) and Milotic.

Set Details
========
252 EVs in Special Attack to maximize the Empoleon's damage output, (AC) and 252 EVs in Speed to be make it as fast as possible after one Agility. A Modest nature is the way to go most of the time because of the higher power it gives to Empoleon, makes sure to ensuring it can 3HKO Pokemon like Clefable and Bronzong (RC) and does do significant more damage to bulky Jirachi. That said, (AC) Timid is also a pretty decent choice because it allows Empoleon to outrun Choice Scarf Rotom-A and Adamant Choice Scarf Flygon after one Agility, which can end up being gamebreaker sealing a game. Overall, a Modest nature looks better if you have Tyranitar's Pursuit support, while Timid doesn't necessarily require it. Shuca Berry is incredibly useful because it enables Empoleon to take an Earthquake from the likes of Choice Scarf Flygon, Dragonite, Gyarados, Swampert, Tyranitar, (AC) and Metagross. On the other hand, Wacan Berry ensures that Empoleon survives a Thunderbolt from Rotom-A, Zapdos, (AC) and Magnezone.

Usage Tips
========
Generally, because it rarely sweeps teams on its own, you want to scout and weaken the opposing team a bit if you aim for an Empoleon late-game (AH) sweep. Weakening Steel-types (AH) such as Jirachi, Magnezone, Bronzong, and Metagross and Pokemons Pokemon like Clefable, Tyranitar, (AC) and Latias helps in that measure regard. Try to keep your Empoleon hidden and healthy for the most part of the game until you reveal it, and wait for the ideal moment to bring it out. The best way to take advantage of Empoleon is to bring it on a Choice-locked (AH) Pokemon like Outrage-locked (AH) Flygon, Crunch- (AH) or Pursuit-locked (AH) Tyranitar, (AC) or Choice-locked (AH) Latias. Since Empoleon has a good bulk and good resistances, (AC) you it can also afford to take a hit from anything, it's which is even more doable if you it have has a Berry that halves damage from a super effective move. Due to its low Speed, using Agility once will not make Empoleon faster than everything except certain (optional) Choice Scarf users like Flygon, Rotom-A, Latias, and Jirachi, so sometimes if needed you it will have to find opportunities to set up a second Agility to outrun those.

Team Options
========
Pokemons Pokemon that helps help in making Empoleon's sweep easier are more than valued. Tyranitar is a big one, as it is able to Pursuit trap both Choice Scarf Rotom-A and Choice Scarf Latias, (AC) which are thorns in Empoleon's side. Heatran and Gengar are both amazing at pressuring Pokemons Pokemon like Jirachi, Clefable, and Blissey; the former can use Magma Storm and Taunt (RC) or Explosion to get rid of Clefable and Blissey, (AC) while the latter can use Will-O-Wisp to cripple specially defensive Jirachi (RC) as well as Explosion which lures greatly or effectively lure Clefable and Blissey and take them out with Explosion. Gengar also can force Pokemon like Flygon to use Outrage, which open the gates for Empoleon. Breloom, (AC) in the same vein, (AC) is excellent at taking advantage of special walls like Clefable and Blissey, especially if paired with Tyranitar, (AC) who which has great synergy with it. Because Empoleon is usually prone susceptible to priority moves like Mach Punch from the likes of Breloom and Infernape, Chople Berry + Dragon Dance Tyranitar does a good job in luring and removing those for Empoleon. Pokemons Pokemon like Kingdra and Suicune helps aswell help as well in forcing Jirachi and Clefable to take serious damages damage. Lastly, Choice Specs Latias can drop powerful Draco Meteors on the opposing special walls while also being a threat in its ability to Trick its Choice item threatening to shut down a defensive Pokemon with Trick. In case Empoleon gets weakened early or has to take a gets afflicted with status, Healing Wish Latias can be used and bring Empoleon back to full health.

[SET]
name: Specially Defensive
move 1: Surf
move 2: Protect
move 3: Roar / Knock Off
move 4: Stealth Rock
item: Leftovers
ability: Torrent
nature: Calm
evs: 252 HP / 252 SpD / 4 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Despite being a powerful offensive Pokemon, it appears that Empoleon is also a fantastic special wall thanks to its great typing, very good Special Defense, (AC) and its ability to check Pokemons Pokemon such as Choice Specs Latias, Jirachi, Heatran, Suicune, (AC) and most notably Kingdra.

Surf is Empoleon's best move for offensive pressure on this set. Protect enables Empoleon to passively recover more gain additional Leftovers recovery, (AC) which is precious valuable because it's its only form of recovery, as well as scout Choiced Pokemons Pokemon like Tyranitar, Latias, Flygon, (AC) and Rotom (-A?). Roar is very useful to phaze Pokemons Pokemon like Calm Mind Jirachi, Calm Mind Suicune, and Dragon Dance Kingdra (RC) and overall to be allow Empoleon to be less passive because Empoleon doesn't want to act like a sitting duck. Knock Off is an alternative and like Roar enables gives Empoleon to have a less passive presence on the field. Knock Off is excellent in long and slow low-paced (AH) games; (spacing) Empoleon can Knock Off cripple Jirachi, Suicune, Starmie, Clefable, and pretty much anything with Leftovers, preventing passive recovery and starting allowing its team to start making progress. Like the lead set, Empoleon's (cross-set reference) keeps its ability in being to be a great Stealth Rock setter, which is improved here thanks to Leftovers recovery and bulk investment. Toxic can be used to chip more effectively Pokemon like Starmie, Milotic, Kingdra, (AC) and Suicune more effectively.

Set Details
========
Investing 252 EVs in HP (RC) 252 EVs in and Special Defense as(space)well as providing Empoleon with a Calm nature ensures that it can perform its defensive role perfectly, as it wants to combat Starmie, Heatran, Latias, (AC) and Kingdra as well as possible. You could put in some Defense EVs to take better on Pokemon like Tyranitar and Bronzong better (RC) or even some Special Attack EVs to do more damage to the likes of Jirachi, Skarmory, (AC) and Tyranitar. Leftovers is the mandatory item here, being the best and only form of recovery for Empoleon.

Usage Tips
========
You can lead with this Empoleon, (AC) since it performs well in for the most part against the common leads; (SC) just make sure that you have backup options for Metagross, Machamp, (AC) and Zapdos leads. Set up Stealth Rock turn 1 most of the time, since almost nothing really prevents Empoleon from doing that, (AC) and Pokemon like Azelf may be reluctant to use Taunt in fear of a Hydro Pump. Switch your Empoleon into powerful special attackers like Choice Specs Latias, Kingdra, Suicune, (AC) and use the opportunity to use Roar or Knock Off to cripple the opposing team. Protect should be used relatively often, as it's important to keep Empoleon as healthy as possible. However, try to not use it too much and become too predictable in this aspect, as Pokemon like Tyranitar, Metagross, (AC) or and Dragonite may come in on a telegraphed Protect and scare Empoleon out. You can use Empoleon to pivot against Gengar's Shadow Ball and throw out a Surf if it's in its KO range; (SC) it's also worth knowing that this Empoleon is one of the best defensive answers to Jirachi.

Team Options
========
Specially defensive Empoleon does require some support, since it's too passive against setup sweepers and defensive teams. Empoleon's teammates should try to lessen the impact of its numerous weaknesses and the potential set up setup it would allow while also providing solid countermeasures against defensive patterns (backbones / cores?) to compensate for its mediocre matchup against Clefable and the free momentum it can give. That said, for a great defensive synergy, teammates should mainly try patching coverng Fighting-, Ground-, (AC) and Electric-types moves, (AC) as Empoleon's slowness makes it prone to being abused exploited by the strongest powerhouses of the tiers, such as Dragonite or and Gyarados. In such a case, Skarmory, which is one of the greatest physical walls, is an excellent one option, (AC) and setting up Spikes is a big thing to compensate for compensating for Empoleon's passiveness. Nidoqueen brings an Electric immunity as(space)well as a Fighting resistance (RC) and sets up Toxic Spikes, while bulky Latias provides a ton of resistances and can synergise synergize well with Spikes support and Roar. Choice Scarf Rotom-A gets the jump on dangerous foes like Infernape or and Dragon Dance sweepers like Gyarados and Dragonite that Empoleon fears. Rotom-A It also spinblocks opposing Rapid Spins Spin, (AC) while Rest Talk RestTalk variants can absorb Breloom's Spore and Superpower to compensate for its slowness. On the other hand, Gengar brings similar defensive utility and threatens defensive teams especially with Taunt, Will-O-Wisp, (AC) and Spikes support. Wish users such as Latias, Jirachi, (AC) and Clefable are valuable, as it gives they give Empoleon way more longevity. You also need some sort of pressure outside of entry hazards, (AC) or Clefable is will just sitting on your team all day. Gliscor is an amazing stallbreaker (RC) that also provides strong great defensive utility against Pokemon like Lucario, Dragonite, (AC) and Tyranitar. Gengar, as mentionned mentioned previously, gives defensive teams a hard time while providing a countermeasure to Infernape and Breloom countermeasure. Breloom takes advantage of Clefable wonderfully, (AC) while Calm Mind Latias and Calm Mind Clefable are both great win conditions wincons against defensive teams. Not to forget that Furthermore, (AC) Clefable and Breloom can also absorb Will-O-Wisp from Rotom-A, (AC) that which Empoleon should try to avoid. Lastly, Tyranitar is big because it summons Sandstorm which synergies its sand synergizes really well with Empoleon's typing and helps making good progress in the game, Tyranitar while it also helps in the hazard game by trapping opposing Starmie.

[SET]
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Hydro Pump
move 2: Surf
move 3: Ice Beam
move 4: Grass Knot
item: Choice Specs
ability: Torrent
nature: Modest
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Empoleon's taking another approach with that this set, maximizing its raw power with Choice Specs.

Hydro Pump is simply devastating; (spacing) with Choice Specs, Empoleon has a chance of OHKOing maximum HP Metagross, always takes out all Azelf leads, and flips turns the tables against bulky Jirachi and bulky Bronzong in by turning a low chance of a 2HKO into a very guaranteed one. One of the main key asset assets that brings Choice Specs Empoleon brings compared to the regular one sets shows up against Clefable and specially defensive Jirachi; (spacing) the former is 2HKO faces a guaranteed 2HKO, (AC) while the latter gets heavily damaged, which is huge because they it can't anymore come in freely on a Hydro Pump anymore. Anything that does not resist Water-type will get swallowed up by a Choice Specs-boosted (AH) Hydro Pump, and even then Pokemon that resists do resist it like Breloom, Starmie, bulk less uninvested Suicune, (AC) and Latias are still taking a ton of damage. Surf is the second best STAB option, which is less destructive but still very good in terms of power thanks to Choice Specs. It's also a more safe spammable move safer to spam than Hydro Pump thanks to its perfect accuracy and higher PPs PP. Ice Beam covers Latias and Grass-types like Celebi and Shaymin, (AC) that resists which resist Empoleon's Water STAB attacks, while Grass Knot destroys Water-types (AH) that resists Ice and Water coverage such as Milotic and Suicune. The extra power on Ice Beam and Grass Knot damage are is key in making securing the 2HKO on Pokemon like Kingdra and Gyarados.

Set Details
========
Maximize Empoleon's power with 252 EVs in Special Attack and a Modest nature in order to hit as hard as ever possible; (SC) it's absolutely crucial to maintain its benchmarks against Jirachi and Clefable and deal them as much damage as possible against them. The remaining EVs goes go into its Speed in order to outrun as many Pokemons Pokemon as possible. Note that a few EVs in HP may be useful to improve the odds of living taking a Thunderbolt from Rotom-A (RC) or just to just help against the likes of Jirachi and Tyranitar.

Usage Tips
========
Everytime you have Empoleon on the field, fire off powerful attacks depending on what you are facing. Since this set should be used as a lead, (AC) you can use it to throw powered-up (AH) Water STAB attacks early-game (AH) and chip Empoleon's typical checks. If you're facing an offensive team, the first safe switch-in to a Choice Specs Hydro Pump is usually Latias. If you're facing a defensive team, odds are the first switch-in would will be Clefable, which gets destroyed by Hydro Pump thanks to the surprise factor that Choice Specs Empoleon provides; (SC) the remaining possible best switch-ins are going to be Milotic, a bulky Latias, (AC) or a and bulky Suicune. Depending on what got foes have been revealed and the state of the game, (AC) you might want to click other moves and predict a bit, such as to take out a Latias with Ice Beam or a Suicune with Grass Knot for example. Use Empoleon's great typing to switch around resisted moves and find opportunities to throw as much many attacks as you can in the middle of the game. Like the Lead set, Try to manage its health as much as possible to possibly enter Torrent range, (AC) which will end up being devastative make it devastating, especially against slow paced teams that might have a hard time forcing it out immediatly immediately.

Team Options
========
Tyranitar has very good synergy with Choice Specs Empoleon because it can trap both Latias and Blissey, (AC) who are two of the few Pokemons Pokemon that are able to switch into a Choice Specs Hydro Pump, plus Sandstorm and its sand is huge since it cancels for negating Leftovers from the likes of Milotic and Suicune. Jirachi can spread paralysis with Body Slam very nicely to support Empoleon and compensate Empoleon's for its low Speed, (AC) that which prevents it to be from being fully threatening against fast paced teams. Since this Empoleon shoud lead, make sure that you have a good backup against Electric-types like Rotom (-A?) and Zapdos; (spacing) Pokemon like Blissey, Clefable, Swampert, (AC) or a and bulky Tyranitar are all great for that purpose. Empoleon appreciates having at least a one time pivoting Pokemon a teammate that can pivot at least once against Ground-, Electric-, and Fighting-type moves like Latias, Rotom, (AC, also same) or and Gengar, since this Empoleon has to lock itself on a move and will be easily forced out. Pokemon like Choice Specs Kingdra and Suicune helps keeping help keep up the Empoleon's offensive pressure given by Empoleon with more strong Water spam attacks. Finally, Healing Wish Latias can give Empoleon a second life if it got weakened badly.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
Chople Berry is an alternative on the Agility set; (SC) however, (AC) it remains very team dependant dependent, inferior, (AC) and not as useful as the other Berries like Shuca and Wacan, (AC) because even with Chople you are Berry, Empoleon is not taking Fighting-type moves that well from the likes of Infernape, Breloom, (AC) and Lucario that well. Alternatively, a mid-game Chople midgame Berry set with Stealth Rock can be used as it can stand again the likes of Infernape, Breloom, (AC) and Lucario and still keeps up against Jirachi and Latias. Yawn can be used as a filler move over Stealth Rock on a midgame mid-game set, forces forcing switches and benefits to enabling Empoleon to try catching some kills KOs. Rest plus Sleep Talk, or RestTalk and Aqua Ring are possible options on the specially defensive set to improve Empoleon's longevity in providing it some sort of extra recovery; (SC) however, (AC) you will need to drop moves like Protect and/or Stealth Rock to make room for them. Icy Wind and Feather Dance find their use against setup sweepers like Gyarados and Metagross (clear body) that would like to setup set up on Empoleon for free, the former reduces Speed while the latter makes sure to reduce Attack by 2 stages. Feather Dance on the Specially Defensive set is also great in conjunction with entry hazards on the specially defensive set, since you will to force out physical attackers. The Choice Specs set can make room for Sleep Talk; (SC) however, (AC) it really wants all the four moves it has already.

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

**Choice Scarf Users**: Choice Scarf users like Scarf Rotom-A and Scarf Flygon can revenge kill Empoleon even after one Agility with Thunderbolt and Earthquake respectively their STAB moves. Choice Scarf Latias can use Thunderbolt, Thunder Wave, (AC) or even Trick to lock it Empoleon into Ice Beam, which completely invalidates Empoleon it.

**Special Walls**: Clefable and Blissey are both extremely annoying for Empoleon; (SC) the former can stall out Hydro Pumps Pump's PP with a combination of Soft-Boiled and potentially Protect, while the latter can cripple Empoleon with Thunder Wave and will never die faint to Hydro Pump. Specially defensive Jirachi is at best 3OKHOed 3HKOed by Empoleon's Hydro Pump, and it can chain Wishes and Protects and stall out Hydro Pumps Pump while crippling Empoleon with Body Slam.

**Pokemon that Resist Water Resists**: Among all the Pokemon resisting Water-type moves, Abomasnow is one of the most irritating. In addition of its good bulk and the fact that it is not lack of a weakness to Ice Beam, Abomasnow summons Hail, which its hail means Empoleon is consistently chipped down. Abomasnow can also use Leech Seed and Protect to easily stay healthy and makes make Empoleon completely worthless. Funnily enough, (AC) specially defensive Empoleon is a good check to the Agility one its own Agility set, as it takes very little damage from Grass Knot and can eventually phaze it out with Roar. Calm Mind Latias potentially walls Empoleon if it boosts up too much, then meaning Empoleon has to rely on an Ice Beam freeze if Latias becomesout gets out of control. It is worth mentionning mentioning that Milotic, Suicune, (AC) and Starmie all walls wall SubPetaya Empoleon because it lacks Grass Knot. Lastly, despite the fact that Vaporeon is rarely seen, (AC) nowadays it remains obnoxious for Empoleon to deal with, as it takes almost nothing from Grass Knot due to its weight.

**Trappers**: Magnezone is sort of a situational check to Empoleon. Against the Agility set, (AC) it can come in at full health, live tank a Hydro Pump, (AC) and revenge kill it with Thunderbolt, while against it outspeeds the specially defensive set Magnezone is faster and Surf does not take enough damages damage from Surf. Dugtrio can trap any Empoleon and take it out with Earthquake as long as it don't doesn't get an Agility up.

**Fighting-, (AC) Electric-, (AC) and Ground-type Move users**: Empoleon's Ground-, (AC) Electric-, (AC) and Fighting-type weaknesses makes it abusable by allow the most popular and strongest powerhouses of the tier to take advantage of it. Zapdos threatens all Empoleons Empoleon with Thunderbolt (RC) and can eventually (not sure what this means in this context) check it pretty nicely if it's heavily invested in Special Defense. Thunder Jirachi 2HKOs 2HKOes most Empoleons Empoleon without bulk investment (RC) and if the latter gets paralyzed it reduces can significantly reduce its effectiveness with paralysis. Fighting-types like Infernape, Lucario, (AC) and Breloom can force Empoleon out with their STAB attacks, especially if they got are running Mach Punch and Empoleon is at low health. Gengar nails Empoleon with Focus Blast, while offensive Starmie does enough damage with Thunderbolt to scare Empoleon out. Tyranitar is usually bulky enough to take one hit from Empoleon (RC) and damage it back with either Superpower or Earthquake. Finally, Pokemon like Gyarados, Dragonite, (AC) or and even offensive Bronzong can deal tremendous damage to Empoleon with Earthquake.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Sakito, 433460]]
- Quality checked by: [[Excal, 456373], [Emeral, 72767]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]
done, thank you!
 

lotiasite

undedgy
is a Forum Moderatoris a Top Contributoris a Smogon Media Contributoris a Social Media Contributor Alumnus
GP 2/2

[OVERVIEW]

Empoleon's excellent Water / Steel typing, well-rounded stats, and decent movepool makes (remove) it a great Pokemon in the DPP landscape. Its unique typing provides it with key resistances such as Dragon and Water, which makes Empoleon the only Pokemon in the metagame that resists both of Kingdra's STAB moves in addition to Choice Specs Latias's Draco Meteor + Surf combination. Its Dark and Rock resistances also enable it to take on both of Tyranitar's STAB moves while also providing it with a Stealth Rock resistance. Empoleon also has the distinction of being a super goodfantastic (kinda informal?) answer to Jirachi, as it resists both Iron Head and Body Slam and is not weak to Fire Punch. Empoleon has access to the most powerful Hydro Pump of all OU Pokemon; when it's boosted by its ability Torrent, Empoleon can deliver unrivaled power on the field, making it even more threatening in a metagame where usual teams are suffering from a lack of a real Water-type resistance. Empoleon is usually seen as an offensive powerhouse thanks to its access to Agility, which, paired with its high Special Attack and good coverage, turns it into a fearsome sweeper. However, outside of its ability Torrent, Empoleon has no means to boost its Special Attack, which can prevent it from hitting some Pokemon hard enough. Finally, Empoleon also has access to utility moves like Stealth Rock, Roar, and even Knock Off, which is a big tool against defensive teams. Its low Speed stat is one of its main cons; Empoleon has to run a Timid nature to outspeed Choice Scarf Rotom-A and Adamant Choice Scarf Flygon, which is not always ideal because it usually wants all the power it can have. While it can take special hits effectively thanks to its good bulk, Empoleon is vulnerable to common coverages (remove) types in the metagame, such as Ground, Fighting, and Electric.

[SET]
name: Lead
move 1: Hydro Pump
move 2: Grass Knot
move 3: Stealth Rock / Ice Beam
move 4: Aqua Jet / Ice Beam / Knock Off
item: Focus Sash
ability: Torrent
nature: Modest / Rash
evs: 252 SpA / 4 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Empoleon is one of the best leads in the DPP OU metagame. Its ability to quickly put pressure against both offensive and defensive teams while being able to set up Stealth Rock makes it a tremendous lead.

Hydro Pump is Empoleon's primary STAB move, which deals significant damage to almost everything in the metagame, even some Pokemon that resist it like Breloom and Starmie. Thanks to its high Special Attack, Empoleon is able to 2HKO common leads like Metagross, Machamp, Jirachi, and Azelf or weaken a Pokemon that switches in. Grass Knot is thea near-mandatory coverage move for Empoleon, as it enables it to hit Water-type Pokemon such as Starmie super effectively, which means Empoleon will consistently maintain Stealth Rock against the best spinner of OU. Swampert, Suicune, Milotic, Gyarados, and Kingdra are other targets Empoleon much appreciates being able to hit. Empoleon is a fantastic Stealth Rock setter; its favorable matchup against a lot of leads helps it get Stealth Rock up easily most of the time, and its coverage moves paired with its powerful Hydro Pump can be difficult to switch into for both offensive teams and defensive teams. None of the leads like Jirachi, Hippowdon, and Tyranitar want to take a Hydro Pump, so they're usually forced to switch out, leaving themselves subject to the opposing offensive pressure and giving up the chance to set up their own Stealth Rock early. On top of that, thanks to its Focus Sash, Empoleon will always avoid any KO while also getting in Torrent range, even against Clefable's Seismic Toss, which is a 4HKO. Aqua Jet serves as an all-purpose priority STAB move that is used to finish off Focus Sash leads like Azelf and Metagross or just getting overall chip damage that might come in handy later on, such as against Heatran and Gengar. Ice Beam is an additional coverage move mainly used to hit Dragonite, Latias, and Grass-types such as Breloom, Shaymin, (AC) and Celebi super effectively, which resist Empoleon's Water / Grass coverage. Lastly, Knock Off is another option that helps cripple potential early-game switch-ins like defensive Jirachi, Clefable, Blissey, Latias, and Grass-types like Celebi and Abomasnow.

Set Details
========
252 Special Attack EVs and a Modest nature enable Empoleon to hit as hard as possible, while the remaining 252 EVs go in Speed so Empoleon can outspeed major threats such as Machamp and Speed tie with fast Swampert. While Modest looks like the best nature, Rash is another option that doesn't compromise Aqua Jet's power, which can help get nice chip damage on Pokemon like Heatran and Gengar. Keep in mind that generally it's not worth minimizing Empoleon's Special Defense, though, since it is likely to take one or two hits from the likes of Latias and Suicune. Timid is not an option because Empoleon wants to deal as much damage as possible to(add space)Pokemon like Jirachi and Clefable, which wouldn't be nearly as pressured without a Special Attack-boosting nature. Focus Sash fits Empoleon perfectly, as it allows it to tank any hit from the likes of Zapdos, Rotom-A and Flygon and strike back with a Torrent-boosted Hydro Pump.

Usage Tips
========
If you're facing a lead that is very threatening to your whole team like Machamp or Zapdos that can be painful to deal with for offense, you might want to throw a Hydro Pump immediately to weaken or even KO them. However, know that this implies that you won't be able to set up Stealth Rock. In easier matchups, usually set up Stealth Rock turn 1 and throw out the appropriate attack to weaken the opposing lead. Keep in mind the synergy between Focus Sash and Torrent; once Empoleon activates its Focus Sash, it gets in Torrent range, which means it is able to fire off a powerful Hydro Pump that almost nothing can stand. Against offensive teams, if you managed (remove) to keep your Empoleon alive against the opposing lead, try to preserve it as fodder, which may turn out pretty useful to regain momentum. Empoleon's typingresistances (more clear) also allows (remove) it to come into the field multiple times, and it may find opportunities to throw out attacks or set Stealth Rock back up if needed. Against more defensive teams, Empoleon tends to be chipped down much more slowly, so try to manage its health as much as you can in order to use Torrent to your advantage and put pressure on foes like Clefable and specially defensive Jirachi that should typically check Empoleon. If Empoleon is in Torrent range, try to bring it on the field on a predicted switch or once the enemy is forced to use a recovery move.

Team Options
========
Thanks to Empoleon's versatility, it pairs well with many different Pokemon. Teammates that benefits (remove) from the early offensive pressure and momentum set up by Empoleon are much appreciated. Dragon Dance sweepers such as Gyarados and Dragonite help in keeping up the offensive pressure, especially if Empoleon has weakened the opponent's Latias or Water-types. Jirachi is very useful to those typical offensive teams, since it can run various sets and support its team at its convenience. It's one of the few Pokemon on offense that keeps in check all of Lucario, Scizor, Starmie, and Tyranitar and also takes on Dragon-types and opposing Jirachi well. Tyranitar is very desirable because it traps both Latias and Rotom-A and supplies defensive utility in keeping up against Pokemon like Zapdos and Starmie, which otherwise would be too much to deal with. Latias provides wonderful support on offense, keepsing up against Pokemon like Breloom and Infernape defensively without compromising offensive pressure with its Choice sets. Bronzong not only provides a great a defensive backbone thanks to its typing and defensive stats but also can act as late-game cleaner with Trick Room, which goes well with Choice Band Tyranitar. Gengar brings immunities to Fighting and Ground to the table and is able to disrupt both offensive and defensive teams with Taunt, Will-O-Wisp, or even Explosion. Kingdra, Swampert, and Suicune are other great teammates more focused on stacking Water-types and overloading the opposing Water-type checks. Finally, because sometimes Empoleon may not be able to set up its Stealth Rock against very specific leads like Machamp and Zapdos, you may want a second Stealth Rock setter in your team like Jirachi or Tyranitar.

[SET]
name: Agility
move 1: Agility
move 2: Hydro Pump / Surf
move 3: Ice Beam
move 4: Grass Knot / Substitute
item: Shuca Berry / Wacan Berry / Petaya Berry
ability: Torrent
nature: Modest / Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
This set allows Empoleon to compensate for its low Speed and become a terrifying sweeper.

Hydro Pump is the best STAB option due to its high Base Power; Surf is a possibility if you prefer a 100% accurate move, but it might miss out on damage on key targets like Jirachi, Tyranitar, Rotom, Metagross, and Bronzong. Ice Beam covers Dragon- and Grass-types like Latias, Dragonite, Breloom, Celebi, and Shaymin, while Grass Knot deals with Water-types such as Swampert, Starmie, Suicune, and Milotic. Paired with Empoleon's Water-type STAB attack, this move combination provides unresisted coverage in the metagame. Finally, Substitute can be used over Grass Knot, but it should always be used with Petaya Berry. With this move, the idea is to set up Agility and keep using Substitute until both Petaya Berry and Torrent activate, which makes Empoleon more threatening than ever. However, keep in mind that this option is less reliable and will be less consistent overall, since it gives up Grass-type coverage, and if Empoleon is in Petaya Berry range, this means it's also in range ofor priority attacks. Hidden Power Electric is another option that should be used only if you're really weak to Gyarados and can't afford to let it set up; it's overall worse than Grass Knot, because Empoleon now can't hit Swampert as hard anymore and becomes weaker against Pokemon like Starmie, Suicune, and Milotic.

Set Details
========
252 EVs in Special Attack maximize Empoleon's damage output, and 252 EVs in Speed make it as fast as possible after one Agility. A Modest nature is the way to go most of the time because of the higher power it gives to Empoleon, ensuring it can 3HKO Pokemon like Clefable and Bronzong and do significant more damage to bulky Jirachi. That said, Timid is also a pretty decent choice because it allows Empoleon to outrun Choice Scarf Rotom-A and Adamant Choice Scarf Flygon after one Agility, which can end up sealing a game. Overall, a Modest nature looks better if you have Tyranitar's Pursuit support, while Timid doesn't necessarily require it. Shuca Berry is incredibly useful because it enables Empoleon to take an Earthquake from the likes of Choice Scarf Flygon, Dragonite, Gyarados, Swampert, Tyranitar, and Metagross. On the other hand, Wacan Berry ensures that Empoleon survives a Thunderbolt from Rotom-A, Zapdos, and Magnezone.

Usage Tips
========
Generally, because it rarely sweeps teams on its own, you want to scout and weaken the opposing team a bit if you're aiming for an Empoleon late-game sweep. Weakening Steel-types such as Jirachi, Magnezone, Bronzong, and Metagross and Pokemon like Clefable, Tyranitar, and Latias helps in that regard. Try to keep your Empoleon hidden and healthy for the most part of the game, and wait for the ideal moment to bring it out. The best way to take advantage of Empoleon is to bring it on a Choice-locked Pokemon like Outrage-locked Flygon, Crunch- or Pursuit-locked Tyranitar, or Choice-locked Latias. Since Empoleon has good bulk and good resistances, it can also afford to take a hit from anything, which is even more doable if it has a Berry that halves damage from a super effective move. Due to its low Speed, using Agility once will not make Empoleon faster than Choice Scarf users like Flygon, Rotom-A, Latias, and Jirachi, so sometimes it will have to find opportunities to set up a second Agility to outrun those.

Team Options
========
Pokemon that help in making Empoleon's sweep easier are more than valued. Tyranitar is a big one, as it is able to Pursuit trap both Choice Scarf Rotom-A and Choice Scarf Latias, which are thorns in Empoleon's side. Heatran and Gengar are both amazing at pressuring Pokemon like Jirachi, Clefable, and Blissey; the former can use Magma Storm and Taunt or Explosion to get rid of Clefable and Blissey, while the latter can use Will-O-Wisp to cripple specially defensive Jirachi or effectively lure Clefable and Blissey and take them out with Explosion. Gengar also can force Pokemon like Flygon to use Outrage, which opens the gates for Empoleon. Breloom, in the same vein, is excellent at taking advantage of special walls like Clefable and Blissey, especially if paired with Tyranitar, which has great synergy with it. Because Empoleon is usually susceptible to priority moves like Mach Punch from the likes of Breloom and Infernape, Chople Berry + Dragon Dance Tyranitar does a good job luring in and removing those for Empoleon. Pokemon like Kingdra and Suicune help as well in forcing Jirachi and Clefable to take serious damage. Lastly, Choice Specs Latias can drop powerful Draco Meteors on opposing special walls while also threatening to shut down a defensive Pokemon with Trick. In case Empoleon gets weakened early or gets afflicted with status, Healing Wish Latias can be used and bring Empoleon back to full health.

[SET]
name: Specially Defensive
move 1: Surf
move 2: Protect
move 3: Roar / Knock Off
move 4: Stealth Rock
item: Leftovers
ability: Torrent
nature: Calm
evs: 252 HP / 252 SpD / 4 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Despite being a powerful offensive Pokemon, Empoleon is also a fantastic special wall thanks to its great typing, very good Special Defense, and ability to check Pokemon such as Choice Specs Latias, Jirachi, Heatran, Suicune, and most notably Kingdra.

Surf is Empoleon's best move for offensive pressure on this set. Protect enables Empoleon to gain additional Leftovers recovery, which is valuable because it's itsas its (clunky) only form of recovery, as well as scouting Choiced Pokemon like Tyranitar, Latias, Flygon, and Rotom. Roar is very useful to phaze Pokemon like Calm Mind Jirachi, Calm Mind Suicune, and Dragon Dance Kingdra and overall allow Empoleon to be less passive. Knock Off is an alternative and like Roar gives Empoleon a less passive presence on the field. Knock Off is excellent in long and slow-paced games; Empoleon can cripple Jirachi, Suicune, Starmie, Clefable, and pretty much anything with Leftovers, preventing passive recovery and allowing its team to start making progress. Empoleon's ability to be a great Stealth Rock setter is improved here thanks to Leftovers recovery and bulk investment. Toxic can be used to chip Pokemon like Starmie, Milotic, Kingdra, and Suicune more effectively.

Set Details
========
Investing 252 EVs in HP and Special Defense as well as providing Empoleon with a Calm nature ensures that it can perform its defensive role perfectly, as it wants to combat Starmie, Heatran, Latias, and Kingdra as well as possible. You could put in some Defense EVs to take on Pokemon like Tyranitar and Bronzong better or even some Special Attack EVs to do more damage to the likes of Jirachi, Skarmory, and Tyranitar. Leftovers is the mandatory item here, being the best and only form of recovery for Empoleon.

Usage Tips
========
You can lead with this Empoleon, since it performs well for the most part against the common leads; just make sure that you have backup options for Metagross, Machamp, and Zapdos leads. Set up Stealth Rock turn 1 most of the time, since almost nothing really prevents Empoleon from doing that, and Pokemon like Azelf may be reluctant to use Taunt in fear of a Hydro Pump. Switch Empoleon into powerful special attackers like Choice Specs Latias, Kingdra, and Suicune, and use the opportunity to use Roar or Knock Off to cripple the opposing team. Protect should be used relatively often, as it's important to keep Empoleon as healthy as possible. However, try to not use it too much and become too predictable in this aspect, as Pokemon like Tyranitar, Metagross, and Dragonite may come in on a telegraphed Protect and scare Empoleon out. You can use Empoleon to pivot against Gengar's Shadow Ball and throw out a Surf if it's in its KO range; it's also worth knowing that this Empoleon is one of the best defensive answers to Jirachi.

Team Options
========
Specially defensive Empoleon does require some support, since it's too passive against setup sweepers and defensive teams. Empoleon's teammates should try to lessen the impact of its numerous weaknesses and the potential setup it would allow while also providing solid countermeasures against defensive cores to compensate for its mediocre matchup against Clefable and the free momentum it can give. That said, for a great defensive synergy, teammates should mainly try covering (spelling) Fighting-, Ground-, and Electric-type moves, as Empoleon's slowness makes it prone to being exploited by the strongest powerhouses of the tiers, such as Dragonite and Gyarados. Skarmory, which is one of the greatest physical walls, is an excellent option, and setting up Spikes is big for compensating for Empoleon's passiveness. Nidoqueen brings an Electric immunity as(space) (keep the space, but remove the comment) well as a Fighting resistance and sets up Toxic Spikes, while bulky Latias provides a ton of resistances and can synergize well with Spikes support and Roar. Choice Scarf Rotom-A gets the jump on dangerous foes like Infernape and Dragon Dance sweepers like Gyarados and Dragonite that Empoleon fears. It also blocks Rapid Spin, while RestTalk variants can absorb Breloom's Spore and Superpower to compensate for itEmpoleon's slowness. On the other hand, Gengar brings similar defensive utility and threatens defensive teams especially with Taunt, Will-O-Wisp, and Spikes support. Wish users such as Latias, Jirachi, and Clefable are valuable, as they give Empoleon way more longevity. You also need some sort of pressure outside of entry hazards, or Clefable will just sit on your team all day. Gliscor is an amazing stallbreaker that also provides great defensive utility against Pokemon like Lucario, Dragonite, and Tyranitar. Gengar, as mentioned previously, gives defensive teams a hard time while providing a countermeasure to Infernape and Breloom. Breloom takes advantage of Clefable wonderfully, while Calm Mind Latias and Calm Mind Clefable are both great wincons against defensive teams. Furthermore, Clefable and Breloom can also absorb Will-O-Wisp from Rotom-A, which Empoleon should try to avoid. Lastly, Tyranitar is big because its sand synergizes really well with Empoleon's typing and helps making good progress in the game, while it also helps in the hazard game by trapping opposing Starmie.


[SET]
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Hydro Pump
move 2: Surf
move 3: Ice Beam
move 4: Grass Knot
item: Choice Specs
ability: Torrent
nature: Modest
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Empoleon's taking another approach with this set, maximizing its raw power with Choice Specs.

Hydro Pump is simply devastating; with Choice Specs, Empoleon has a chance of OHKOing maximum HP Metagross, always takes out Azelf leads, and turns the tables against bulky Jirachi and bulky Bronzong by turning a low chance of a 2HKO into a very guaranteed one. One of the main assets that Choice Specs Empoleon brings compared to regular sets shows against Clefable and specially defensive Jirachi; the former faces a guaranteed 2HKO, while the latter gets heavily damaged, which is huge because it can't come in freely on Hydro Pump anymore. Anything that does not resist Water will get swallowed up by a Choice Specs-boosted Hydro Pump, and even Pokemon that do resist it like Breloom, Starmie, uninvested Suicune, and Latias are still taking a ton of damage. Surf is the second best STAB option, which is less destructive but still very good in terms of power thanks to Choice Specs. It's also safer to spam than Hydro Pump thanks to its perfect accuracy and higher PP. Ice Beam covers Latias and Grass-types like Celebi and Shaymin, which resist Empoleon's Water-type STAB attacks, while Grass Knot destroys the Water-types that resists Ice-(AH) and Water-type coverage such as Milotic and Suicune. The extra power on Ice Beam and Grass Knot is key in securing the 2HKO on Pokemon like Kingdra and Gyarados.

Set Details
========
Maximize Empoleon's power with 252 EVs in Special Attack and a Modest nature in order to hit as hard as possible; it's absolutely crucial to maintain its benchmarks against Jirachi and Clefable and deal as much damage as possible against them. The remaining EVs go into its Speed in order to outrun as many Pokemon as possible. Note that a few EVs in HP may be useful to improve the odds of taking a Thunderbolt from Rotom-A or just to help against the likes of Jirachi and Tyranitar. (how many HP EVs exactly?)

Usage Tips
========
Every(add space)time you have Empoleon on the field, fire off powerful attacks depending on what you are facing. Since this set should be used as a lead, you can use it to throw powered-up Water-type STAB attacks early-game and chip Empoleon's typical checks. If you're facing an offensive team, the first safe switch-in to a Choice Specs Hydro Pump is usually Latias. If you're facing a defensive team, odds are the first switch-in will be Clefable, which gets destroyed by Hydro Pump thanks to the surprise factor that Choice Specs Empoleon provides; the remaining possible best switch-ins are going to be Milotic, bulky Latias, and bulky Suicune. Depending on what foes have been revealed and the state of the game, you might want to click other moves and predict a bit, such as to take out Latias with Ice Beam or Suicune with Grass Knot. Use Empoleon's great typing to switch around resisted moves and find opportunities to throw as many attacks as you can in the middle of the game. Try to manage its health as much as possible to possibly enter Torrent range, which will make it devastating, especially against slow teams that might have a hard time forcing it out immediately.

Team Options
========
Tyranitar has very good synergy with Choice Specs Empoleon because it can trap both Latias and Blissey, two of the few Pokemon that are able to switch into a Choice Specs Hydro Pump, and its sand is huge for negating Leftovers from the likes of Milotic and Suicune. Jirachi can spread paralysis with Body Slam very nicely to support Empoleon and compensate for its low Speed, which prevents it from being fully threatening against fast teams. Since this Empoleon should (spelling) lead, make sure that you have a good backup against Electric-types like Rotom-A and Zapdos; Pokemon like Blissey, Clefable, Swampert, and bulky Tyranitar are all great for that purpose. Empoleon appreciates having a teammate that can pivot at least once against Ground-, Electric-, and Fighting-type moves like Latias, Rotom-A, and Gengar, since this Empoleon has to lock itself oninto a move and will be easily forced out. Pokemon like Choice Specs Kingdra and Suicune help keep up Empoleon's offensive pressure with more strong Water-type attacks. Finally, Healing Wish Latias can give Empoleon a second life if it gotets weakened badly.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
Chople Berry is an alternative on the Agility set; however, it remains very team dependent, inferior, and not as useful as other Berries like Shuca and Wacan, because even with Chople Berry, Empoleon is not taking Fighting-type moves from the likes of Infernape, Breloom, and Lucario that well. Alternatively, a mid-game Chople Berry set with Stealth Rock can stand against the likes of Infernape, Breloom, and Lucario and still keeps up against Jirachi and Latias. Yawn can be used as a filler move over Stealth Rock on a mid-game set, forcing switches and enabling Empoleon to try catching some KOs. RestTalk and Aqua Ring are options on the specially defensive set to improve Empoleon's longevity in providing it some sort of extra recovery; however, you will need to drop moves like Protect and Stealth Rock to make room for them. Icy Wind and Feather Dance find their use against setup sweepers like Gyarados that would like to set up on Empoleon for free. Feather Dance is also great in conjunction with entry hazards on the specially defensive set to force out physical attackers. The Choice Specs set can make room for Sleep Talk; however, it really wants all the four moves it has already.

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

**Choice Scarf Users**: Choice Scarf users like Rotom-A and Flygon can revenge kill Empoleon even after one Agility with their STAB moves. Choice Scarf Latias can use Thunderbolt, Thunder Wave, or even Trick to lock Empoleon into Ice Beam, which completely invalidates it.

**Special Walls**: Clefable and Blissey are both extremely annoying for Empoleon; the former can stall out Hydro Pump's PP with a combination of Soft-Boiled and potentially Protect, while the latter can cripple Empoleon with Thunder Wave and will never faint to Hydro Pump. Specially defensive Jirachi is at best 3HKOed by Empoleon's Hydro Pump, and it can chain Wishes and Protects and stall out Hydro Pump while crippling Empoleon with Body Slam.

**Pokemon that Resist Waters**: Among all the Pokemon resisting Water-type moves, Abomasnow is one of the most irritating. In addition tof its good bulk and lack of a weakness to Ice Beam, its hail means Empoleon is consistently chipped down. Abomasnow can also use Leech Seed and Protect to easily stay healthy and make Empoleon completely worthless. Funnily enough, specially defensive Empoleon is a good check to its own Agility set, as it takes very little damage from Grass Knot and can eventually phaze it with Roar. Calm Mind Latias potentially walls Empoleon if it boosts up too much, meaning Empoleon has to rely on an Ice Beam freeze if Latias gets out of control. It is worth mentioning that Milotic, Suicune, and Starmie all wall SubPetaya Empoleon because it lacks Grass Knot. Lastly, despite the fact that Vaporeon is rarely seen, it remains obnoxious for Empoleon to deal with, as it takes almost nothing from Grass Knot due to its low weight.

**Trappers**: Magnezone is a situational check to Empoleon. Against the Agility set, it can come in at full health, tank a Hydro Pump, and revenge kill it with Thunderbolt, while it outspeeds the specially defensive set and does not take enough damage from Surf. Dugtrio can trap any Empoleon and take it out with Earthquake as long as it doesn't get an Agility up. (dugtrio's banned now right? Remove this line if it is)

**Fighting-, Electric-, and Ground-type Move usersCoverage**: Empoleon's Ground-, Electric-, and Fighting-type weaknesses allow the most popular and strongest powerhouses of the tier to take advantage of it. Zapdos threatens all Empoleon sets with Thunderbolt and can eventually (not sure what this means in this context) (remove this comment, but also it still applies. Can u add something here for clarity or just remove the "eventually") check it pretty nicely if it's heavily invested in Special Defense. Thunder Jirachi 2HKOes most Empoleon sets without bulk investment and can significantly reduce its effectiveness with paralysis. Fighting-types like Infernape, Lucario, and Breloom can force Empoleon out with their STAB attacks, especially if they are running Mach Punch and Empoleon is at low health. Gengar nails Empoleon with Focus Blast, while offensive Starmie does enough damage with Thunderbolt to scare Empoleon out. Tyranitar is usually bulky enough to take one hit from Empoleon and damage it back with either Superpower or Earthquake. Finally, Pokemon like Gyarados, Dragonite, and even offensive Bronzong can deal tremendous damage to Empoleon with Earthquake.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Sakito, 433460]]
- Quality checked by: [[Excal, 456373], [Emeral, 72767]]
- Grammar checked by: [[The Dutch Plumberjack, 232216], [lotiasite, 302985]]
 

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