OU Exploud

Overview
########
With the gift of just one move, Boomburst, Exploud became a powerful wallbreaker. Boomburst is responsible for any shred of viability Exploud could ever have in OU, simply because it hits like a wrecking ball when Exploud is equipped with Choice Specs. With Scrappy, Exploud can hit Ghost-types with Boomburst and Focus Blast. Exploud also has the perfect two coverage moves to deal with things that resist Boomburst; Overheat and Focus Blast cover virtually all Steel- and Rock-types. However, Exploud's relatively poor bulk—even with a good base 104 HP — limits its wallbreaking potential. It also has a low Speed stat, which makes Exploud incredibly easy to revenge kill with faster attackers. Nevertheless, it still hits tremendously hard with Boomburst, its one essential niche.

Choice Specs
########
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Boomburst
move 2: Overheat
move 3: Focus Blast
move 4: Flamethrower / Surf
ability: Scrappy
item: Choice Specs
nature: Modest
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

Moves
========
Boomburst is the move Exploud will be using the majority of the time, as it is incredibly powerful and can even hit Ghost-types thanks to Scrappy, as well as hit through Substitutes, which means Pokemon that would normally be safe from being revenge killed are no trouble for Exploud. Even some Steel-types are 2HKOed by Boomburst, including Excadrill, Mega Mawile, and Scizor, while Aegislash can only switch into Boomburst a limited number of times. However, for a more effective way of getting rid of these Pokemon, give Overheat a try. It covers Steel-types, with Aegislash being the most relevant target; with Overheat, Exploud is actually a fairly decent check to Aegislash, as it can switch in on a Shadow Ball and is immune to Aegislash's only priority attack, Shadow Sneak. Meanwhile, Focus Blast hits Rock-types, most notably Tyranitar, as well as Heatran, which is immune to Overheat. Exploud covers so much in just these three moves that the move in the fourth slot is basically just down to personal preference. Unlike Overheat, Flamethrower hits Steel-types without forcing Exploud out, while Surf is a more reliable method of dealing with Heatran and Tyranitar if the accuracy of Focus Blast is unreliable in any given situation.

Set Details
========
The item choice is rather obvious, as Choice Specs just makes Exploud so powerful. A Modest nature adds to this, and Exploud doesn't need to run a Speed boosting nature as it sits at an awkward Speed tier. However, this doesn't stop Speed investment from being useful to benefit from Sticky Web and outspeed defensive Pokemon that don't invest in their Speed stat, such as Rotom-W. The Special Attack investment is obviously in order to increase Exploud's power, while Scrappy is chosen for the ability over Soundproof as it enables Exploud to hit Ghost-types with both Boomburst and Focus Blast. Note that if you are using Exploud to receive Speed boosts from a Baton Pass user, Life Orb is a fine item choice as Exploud will have much better sweeping potential overall with the freedom to change moves.

Usage Tips
========
Exploud should not be used as a sweeper as it is simply too slow to sweep. Instead, Exploud is most comfortable in the role of a wallbreaker, which it pulls off effectively with the great power of Boomburst. In regard to Boomburst, even Pokemon that resist it take a hefty chunk from it, so it is a safe move to use in most situations and is definitely the move that should be used the most. Note that two consecutive Overheats are more powerful than two consecutive Flamethrowers, so it is generally better to use against Steel-types. Finally, it is incredibly important to understand that Exploud isn't that bulky, so it shouldn't try to frequently switch into attacks. Try using teammates with Volt Switch or U-turn to guarantee that it gets in safely.

Team Options
========
Partners that have some way of remedying Exploud's major flaw—its poor Speed—are really helpful. There are a variety of ways to do this; Sticky Web is one of the best as it easy to set up and affects the majority of Exploud's common switch-ins. Common users of the move are Smeargle and Galvantula. If the opponent has Sticky Web on their side of the field, then Exploud is able to outspeed Pokemon such as Jolly Terrakion and Timid Keldeo. If using Sticky Web, a teammate capable of defeating Bisharp, such as Keldeo or Conkeldurr, is recommended. If Sticky Web isn't your cup of tea, then another way to boost Exploud's Speed is by using it as the receiver of Speed boosts from a Pokemon with Baton Pass, Scolipede being the best example for this.

U-turn and Volt Switch users can get Exploud into battle safely while retaining momentum. Landorus-T can check the physical Fighting-types that trouble Exploud, but Rotom-W and Scizor are also good choices. A physical wallbreaker is a great partner to break through the special walls that trouble Exploud. Terrakion, Mega Pinsir, and Kyurem-B are all great in this regard. In general, any team with Exploud needs a way of beating Chansey and Blissey. Pursuit trappers such as Bisharp, Aegislash, and Tyranitar are pretty good choices for beating Chansey and Blissey. Strong Fighting-types such as Keldeo and Terrakion can do the trick, as can Landorus or Landorus-T with Knock Off, which cripples Chansey severely and does a hefty amount to Blissey. Another perk of using Landorus and Landorus-T is that they resist Fighting-type moves. Additionally, if Chansey has its Eviolite knocked off, this gives Exploud a chance to 2HKO it with either Boombust or Focus Blast, depending on Chansey's EVs and nature.

Other Options
########
A Silk Scarf is a good choice as an alternate item as it gives Exploud the freedom to switch moves. It is better used on sets that receive Speed boosts, as otherwise you give up a lot of wallbreaking potential.

Checks & Counters
########
**Chansey and Blissey**: Chansey and Blissey completely wall Exploud, and they can reliably stall it out with Toxic while recovering off the damage that they take with either Soft-Boiled or Wish + Protect. This makes these two Pokemon arguably the best switch-ins to Exploud in the game. However, Chansey has a fair chance of getting 2HKOed by Focus Blast or Boomburst if its Eviolite has been knocked off or stolen.

**Sylveon**: Specially defensive Sylveon only has a 0.4% chance to be 2HKOed by Exploud's Boomburst after Leftovers recovery, so it is safe to say that it is a decent check to it, as it can wear Exploud down with Hyper Voice while recovering off the damage it takes with Wish + Protect. However, for it to be a reliable switch-in, Stealth Rock must be off the field. Any other Sylveon variant, such as physically defensive or Choice Specs, is 2HKOed by Boomburst with no questions asked.

**Conkeldurr**: Assault Vest Conkeldurr differs from other, faster Fighting-types in its method of KOing Exploud. While it can't switch in on it without risking being 2HKOed, it can simply come on after Exploud has attained a KO, tank a Boomburst, and then OHKO Exploud with Drain Punch, recovering some of the HP lost in the process. If Exploud is at around 64% HP, Conkeldurr can safely KO it with Mach Punch.

**Faster, strong attackers**: Talonflame can safely OHKO Exploud after Stealth Rock with its own priority Brave Bird, even though it can not switch directly into Boomburst or Surf. Other priority users may suffice, although aside from Mach Punch users, none can OHKO Exploud like Talonflame can. Landorus can OHKO it after Stealth Rock with Earth Power or Focus Blast, while Thundurus-T can also use Focus Blast or Thunderbolt to end its reign of terror. Mega Charizard Y can destroy it with sun-boosted Fire Blasts, while Gengar's Focus Blast obliterates it as well. Most importantly of all, powerful and fast Fighting-types such as Terrakion, Keldeo, Lucario, and Mega Medicham can revenge kill Exploud with incredible ease, as they are all faster than it and possess a STAB Fighting-type move to swiftly OHKO Exploud. If Exploud is only slightly weakened, almost any faster Pokemon can revenge kill it.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Just a quick nitpick, but I honestly think Flamethrower and Overheat should be swapped. The few times I've used Exploud, I found myself using Overheat to nail Steels on the switch more often than Flamethrower simply because it nets a lot more OHKOs and still outdamages Flamethrower over 2 turns. I know being forced out afterward is an issue, but I often found that I'd be forced out anyway even if I used Flamethrower simply because so much stuff switches in and sets up on an unSTABed Flamethrower so easily. Flamethrower is mostly there as the safer alternative to Overheat just as Surf is the safer alternative to Focus Blast, so it makes since that they'd be slashed together.
 

Srn

Water (Spirytus - 96%)
is an official Team Rateris a Forum Moderatoris a Community Contributoris a Top Tiering Contributor
OUPL Champion
Maybe a scarf set could be mentioned in the other options to balance its speed a bit? It'll lose out on a lot of power, but with a modest nature and a choice scarf you still outpace base 110s, which is a really nice benchmark.
 
Maybe a scarf set could be mentioned in the other options to balance its speed a bit? It'll lose out on a lot of power, but with a modest nature and a choice scarf you still outpace base 110s, which is a really nice benchmark.
Nah, the lack of power really isn't worth it and it detracts from Exlpoud's natural wallbreaking potential. Besides, there are much better Choice Scarf users which means there isn't actually much reason to use Exploud.
 

Colonel M

I COULD BE BORED!
is a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Community Leader Alumnusis a Community Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Discord Contributor Alumnusis a Top Contributor Alumnus
Mention Life Orb if you're Baton Passing Speed.

A few other things to note:

- Aegislash is by far boned by more than just Overheat - it won't enjoy switching into almost any move Exploud is locked into.
- Focus Blast still hits Heatran. A big thing to note too.
- Mention what Pokemon Exploud can outspeed after Sticky Web support - I feel this is very important to note because the reader will not really know what Exploud is really outspeeding.
 
Mention Life Orb if you're Baton Passing Speed.

A few other things to note:

- Aegislash is by far boned by more than just Overheat - it won't enjoy switching into almost any move Exploud is locked into.
- Focus Blast still hits Heatran. A big thing to note too.
- Mention what Pokemon Exploud can outspeed after Sticky Web support - I feel this is very important to note because the reader will not really know what Exploud is really outspeeding.
Done.
 

Alter

lab report ᐛ
is a Contributor Alumnusis a Battle Simulator Moderator Alumnus
Overview
- I'm not sure how necessary it is to say that Exploud can check Aegislash (even though it is a very important threat) because it can only really switch in on free switches, on Shadow Ball or Sneak... or get mauled by Iron Head/Sacred Sword. I'd only really consider mentioning it if it were one of the best counters You can keep this mention if you think it's noteworthy enough, though.

Set Details
- Although you touched on it in the overview, it could be worth mentioning why Scrappy is such a superior option to Soundproof (and is one of the reasons Exploud is viable).

Team Options
- You mention that even though it is a powerful wallbreaker, its defenses are relatively poor. Because of this, it'd probably be a good idea to list some other Pokemon that can safely get Exploud in safely. Examples of this include U-turn and Volt Switch users such as Scizor and Rotom-W. You mentioned this idea in the Usage tips, but you don't specify any examples in the team options section specifically.

Checks & Counters
- This all looks good. Just remember to break it down into the proper sections when you're typing it up. I also don't really see Greninja as that notable, however -> (252 SpA Life Orb Greninja Hydro Pump vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Exploud: 257-304 (73.4 - 86.8%) --guaranteed 2HKO)



QC 2/3
 
Last edited:
  • Like
Reactions: trc
Thanks ash, this is GP ready.

Also please c/p, implementing a GP check on a phone is a horrible experience.
 

Legitimate Username

mad tales of a bloodthirsty corviknight
is a Top Artist Alumnusis a Tiering Contributor Alumnusis a Contributor Alumnusis a Top Smogon Media Contributor Alumnusis a Battle Simulator Moderator Alumnus
A copypaste, as requested.
Additions
Removals
(Comments)
Overview
########
With the gift of just one move, Boomburst, Exploud became a powerful wallbreaker. This one move is responsible for any shred of viability Exploud could ever have in OU, and that is simply because it hits like a wrecking ball when Exploud is equipped with Choice Specs. With Scrappy, Exploud can hit Ghost-types with its moves they'd normally be immune to, which eases prediction massively when using moves such as Focus Blast, and of course, Boomburst. Another quality of Exploud's which is particularly advantageous is that it Exploud also (too wordy) has the perfect two coverage moves to deal with things that resist Boomburst; Overheat and Focus Blast cover virtually all Steel- and Rock-types. However, one major factor that limits Exploud's wallbreaking capability is its bulk. Exploud has high HP, but its low defensive stats equate to poor bulk overall. It also has a low Speed stat, which makes Exploud incredibly easy to revenge kill by most with faster attackers. Nevertheless, it still hits tremendously hard with Boomburst, its one essential niche.

Choice Specs
########
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Boomburst
move 2: Overheat
move 3: Focus Blast
move 4: Flamethrower / Surf
ability: Scrappy
item: Choice Specs
nature: Modest
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

Moves
========
Boomburst is the move you'll be using the majority of the time, as it is incredibly powerful and can even hit Ghost-types thanks to Scrappy, as well as hit through Substitutes, which means Pokemon that would normally be safe from being revenge killed are no trouble for Exploud. Even some Steel-types are 2HKOed by Boomburst, including Excadrill, Mega Mawile, and Scizor. However, for a more effective way of of getting rid of these Pokemon, you can't go past Overheat. It covers half of the Pokemon that resist Boomburst, Steel-types, with Aegislash being the most relevant target. With Overheat, Exploud is actually a fairly decent check to Aegislash, as it can switch in on a Shadow Ball and is immune to Aegislash's only priority attack, Shadow Sneak. Meanwhile, Focus Blast hits Rock-types, the other half, most notably Tyranitar, as well as Heatran, which is immune to Overheat. Now, Exploud covers so much in just these three moves that the move in the fourth slot is basically just down to personal preference. Flamethrower hits Steel-types without forcing you out due to the Special Attack drop, while Surf is a more reliable method of dealing with Heatran.

Set Details
========
The item choice seems is rather obvious, as Choice Specs just makes Exploud just so powerful. A Modest nature adds to this, and Exploud doesn't need to run a Speed boosting nature as it sits at such an awkward Speed tier. However, this doesn't stop Speed investment from being useful to benefit from Sticky Web and or to outspeed Rotom-W, as well as other defensive Pokemon which that don't invest in their Speed stat, such as Rotom-W. The Special Attack investment is obvious in order to increase Exploud's power, while Scrappy is chosen for an the ability over Soundproof as it enables Exploud to hit Ghost-types with both Boomburst and Focus Blast. It is important to note that if you are using Exploud to receive Speed boosts from a Baton Pass user, Life Orb is a fine choice for an the item as you have overall much better overall sweeping potential with the freedom to change moves.

Usage Tips
========
Exploud should not be used as a sweeper as it is simply too slow to sweep. Instead, as you may have gathered, it is most comfortable in the role of a wallbreaker, which it pulls off effectively with the great power of Boomburst. In regards to Boomburst, even Pokemon that resist it take a hefty chunk from it;, so it is a safe move to use in most situations and is definitely the move that should be used the most. When targeting Steel-types, it must be remembered that two uses of Overheat consecutive Overheats (sounds better) is more powerful than two consecutive Flamethrowers, so it is generally the most preferable move to use against Steel-types in most cases (you already specify "generally"). Finally, it is incredibly important to understand that Exploud isn't that bulky, so it shouldn't try and to frequently switch in on into attacks. Try using teammates with Volt Switch or U-turn to guarantee that it gets in safely.

Team Options
========
Partners that have some way of remedying Exploud's major flaw—its poor Speed—are really helpful. There are a variety of ways to do this; Sticky Web is one of the best as it easy to set up and affects the majority of Pokemon that the opponent could send out. Common users of the move are Smeargle and Galvantula. If the opponent has Sticky Web on their side of the field, then Exploud is able to outspeed things such as Jolly Terrakion and Timid Keldeo, as well as obviously everything anything below this benchmark which that it couldn't outspeed before. If using Sticky Web, a way of beating Bisharp is recommended, such as Keldeo or Conkeldurr. If Sticky Web isn't your cup of tea, then another way to boost Exploud's Speed is by using it as the receiver of speed Speed boosts from a Pokemon with Baton Pass., Scolipede is great being the best example for this. U-turn and Volt Switch users can get Exploud into battle safely, while retaining momentum. Landorus-T checks can check the physical Fighting-types that trouble Exploud, but Rotom-W and Scizor are also good choices. A physical wallbreaker is a great partner to break through the special walls that trouble Exploud. Terrakion, Mega Pinsir, and Kyurem-B are all great in this regard. Pursuit trappers are pretty cool good choices for beating Chansey and Blissey, such as Bisharp, Aegislash, and Tyranitar. In general, any team with Exploud need a way of beating Chansey and Blissey. Strong Fighting-types such as Keldeo and Terrakion can do the trick, as does Landorus or Landorus-T and Landorus with Knock Off, which cripples Chansey severely, and does a hefty amount to Blissey. As much as Chansey hates Knock Off, the lack of Leftovers is also not ideal for Blissey. Another perk about of Landorus and Landorus-T is that they even both resist the Fighting-type moves.

Other Options
########
A Silk Scarf is a good choice as an alternate item as it gives Exploud the freedom to switch moves. It is better used on sets that receive speed Speed boosts though, as otherwise you give up a lot of wallbreaking potential.

Checks & Counters
########
**Chansey and Blissey**: Chansey and Blissey completely wall Exploud, and they can reliably stall Exploud it out with Toxic, while recovering off the damage that they take with either Soft-Boiled or Wish + Protect. This makes these two Pokemon arguably the best switch-in switch-ins to Exploud in the game.

**Sylveon**: Specially Defensive defensive Sylveon only has a 0.4% chance to be 2HKOed by Exploud's Boomburst after Leftovers recovery, so it is safe to say that it is a decent check to it, as it can wear it down with Hyper Voice while recovering off the damage it takes with Wish + Protect. However, for it to be a reliable switch-in, Stealth Rock must be off the field for it to be a reliable switch-in though.

**Fast Fighting-types**: Powerful, fast Fighting-types such as Terrakion, Keldeo, Lucario, and Mega Medicham can revenge kill Exploud with incredible ease, as they are all faster than it and possess a STAB Fighting-type move to swiftly OHKO Exploud.

**Conkeldurr**: Assault Vest Conkeldurr differs itself from other, faster Fighting-types in its method of KOing Exploud. While it can't switch in on it without risking being 2HKOed, it can simply come on after Exploud has attained a KO, tank a Boomburst, and then OHKO Exploud with Drain Punch, recovering some of the HP lost in the process. If Exploud is at around 64% HP, Conkeldurr can safely KO it with Mach Punch.

**Talonflame**: Talonflame can safely OHKO Exploud after Stealth Rock with its own priority Brave Bird, even though it can not switch in directly on into Boomburst or Surf.

**Thundurus-T**: Thundurus-T can switch in on a Surf or a Focus Blast, and OHKO Exploud back with its own a Focus Blast of its own. It can also use Focus Blast to safely revenge kill it by following the same, simple process: click the Focus Blast button. (That part is totally unecessary.)
Overview
########
With the gift of just one move, Boomburst, Exploud became a powerful wallbreaker. This one move is responsible for any shred of viability Exploud could ever have in OU, and that is simply because it hits like a wrecking ball when Exploud is equipped with Choice Specs. With Scrappy, Exploud can hit Ghost-types with moves they'd normally be immune to, which eases prediction massively when using moves such as Focus Blast, and of course, Boomburst. Exploud also has the perfect two coverage moves to deal with things that resist Boomburst; Overheat and Focus Blast cover virtually all Steel- and Rock-types. However, one major factor that limits Exploud's wallbreaking capability is its bulk. Exploud has high HP, but its low defensive stats equate to poor bulk overall. It also has a low Speed stat, which makes Exploud incredibly easy to revenge kill with faster attackers. Nevertheless, it still hits tremendously hard with Boomburst, its one essential niche.

Choice Specs
########
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Boomburst
move 2: Overheat
move 3: Focus Blast
move 4: Flamethrower / Surf
ability: Scrappy
item: Choice Specs
nature: Modest
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

Moves
========
Boomburst is the move you'll be using the majority of the time, as it is incredibly powerful and can even hit Ghost-types thanks to Scrappy, as well as hit through Substitutes, which means Pokemon that would normally be safe from being revenge killed are no trouble for Exploud. Even some Steel-types are 2HKOed by Boomburst, including Excadrill, Mega Mawile, and Scizor. However, for a more effective way of of getting rid of these Pokemon, you can't go past Overheat. It covers half of the Pokemon that resist Boomburst, Steel-types, with Aegislash being the most relevant target. With Overheat, Exploud is actually a fairly decent check to Aegislash, as it can switch in on a Shadow Ball and is immune to Aegislash's only priority attack, Shadow Sneak. Meanwhile, Focus Blast hits Rock-types, most notably Tyranitar, as well as Heatran, which is immune to Overheat. Exploud covers so much in just these three moves that the move in the fourth slot is basically just down to personal preference. Flamethrower hits Steel-types without forcing you out due to the Special Attack drop, while Surf is a more reliable method of dealing with Heatran.

Set Details
========
The item choice is rather obvious, as Choice Specs just makes Exploud so powerful. A Modest nature adds to this, and Exploud doesn't need to run a Speed boosting nature as it sits at an awkward Speed tier. However, this doesn't stop Speed investment from being useful to benefit from Sticky Web or to outspeed defensive Pokemon that don't invest in their Speed stat, such as Rotom-W. The Special Attack investment is obvious in order to increase Exploud's power, while Scrappy is chosen for the ability over Soundproof as it enables Exploud to hit Ghost-types with both Boomburst and Focus Blast. It is important to note that if you are using Exploud to receive Speed boosts from a Baton Pass user, Life Orb is a fine choice for the item as you have overall much better sweeping potential with the freedom to change moves.

Usage Tips
========
Exploud should not be used as a sweeper as it is simply too slow to sweep. Instead, as you may have gathered, it is most comfortable in the role of a wallbreaker, which it pulls off effectively with the great power of Boomburst. In regards to Boomburst, even Pokemon that resist it take a hefty chunk from it, so it is a safe move to use in most situations and is definitely the move that should be used the most. When targeting Steel-types, it must be remembered that two consecutive Overheats is more powerful than two consecutive Flamethrowers, so it is generally the preferable move to use against Steel-types. Finally, it is incredibly important to understand that Exploud isn't that bulky, so it shouldn't try to frequently switch into attacks. Try using teammates with Volt Switch or U-turn to guarantee that it gets in safely.

Team Options
========
Partners that have some way of remedying Exploud's major flaw—its poor Speed—are really helpful. There are a variety of ways to do this; Sticky Web is one of the best as it easy to set up and affects the majority of Pokemon that the opponent could send out. Common users of the move are Smeargle and Galvantula. If the opponent has Sticky Web on their side of the field, then Exploud is able to outspeed things such as Jolly Terrakion and Timid Keldeo, as well as anything below this benchmark that it couldn't outspeed before. If using Sticky Web, a way of beating Bisharp is recommended, such as Keldeo or Conkeldurr. If Sticky Web isn't your cup of tea, then another way to boost Exploud's Speed is by using it as the receiver of Speed boosts from a Pokemon with Baton Pass., Scolipede being the best example for this. U-turn and Volt Switch users can get Exploud into battle safely while retaining momentum. Landorus-T can check the physical Fighting-types that trouble Exploud, but Rotom-W and Scizor are also good choices. A physical wallbreaker is a great partner to break through the special walls that trouble Exploud. Terrakion, Mega Pinsir, and Kyurem-B are all great in this regard. Pursuit trappers are pretty good choices for beating Chansey and Blissey, such as Bisharp, Aegislash, and Tyranitar. In general, any team with Exploud need a way of beating Chansey and Blissey. Strong Fighting-types such as Keldeo and Terrakion can do the trick, as does Landorus or Landorus-T with Knock Off, which cripples Chansey severely, and does a hefty amount to Blissey. As much as Chansey hates Knock Off, the lack of Leftovers is also not ideal for Blissey. Another perk of Landorus and Landorus-T is that they both resist Fighting-type moves.

Other Options
########
A Silk Scarf is a good choice as an alternate item as it gives Exploud the freedom to switch moves. It is better used on sets that receive Speed boosts, as otherwise you give up a lot of wallbreaking potential.

Checks & Counters
########
**Chansey and Blissey**: Chansey and Blissey completely wall Exploud, and they can reliably stall it out with Toxic while recovering off the damage that they take with either Soft-Boiled or Wish + Protect. This makes these two Pokemon arguably the best switch-ins to Exploud in the game.

**Sylveon**: Specially defensive Sylveon only has a 0.4% chance to be 2HKOed by Exploud's Boomburst after Leftovers recovery, so it is safe to say that it is a decent check to it, as it can wear it down with Hyper Voice while recovering off the damage it takes with Wish + Protect. However, for it to be a reliable switch-in, Stealth Rock must be off the field.

**Fast Fighting-types**: Powerful, fast Fighting-types such as Terrakion, Keldeo, Lucario, and Mega Medicham can revenge kill Exploud with incredible ease, as they are all faster than it and possess a STAB Fighting-type move to swiftly OHKO Exploud.

**Conkeldurr**: Assault Vest Conkeldurr differs itself from other, faster Fighting-types in its method of KOing Exploud. While it can't switch in on it without risking being 2HKOed, it can simply come on after Exploud has attained a KO, tank a Boomburst, and then OHKO Exploud with Drain Punch, recovering some of the HP lost in the process. If Exploud is at around 64% HP, Conkeldurr can safely KO it with Mach Punch.

**Talonflame**: Talonflame can safely OHKO Exploud after Stealth Rock with its own priority Brave Bird, even though it can not switch directly into Boomburst or Surf.

**Thundurus-T**: Thundurus-T can switch in on a Surf or a Focus Blast, and OHKO Exploud back with a Focus Blast of its own. It can also use Focus Blast to safely revenge kill it.

GP approved 1/2
 
Last edited:
TRC. AMCHECK
ADD
REMOVE
COMMENTS

Overview
########
With the gift of just one move, Boomburst, Exploud becamehas become a powerful wallbreaker. This one moveBoomburst is responsible for any shred of viability Exploud could ever have in OU, and that is simply because it hits like a wrecking ball when Exploud is equipped with Choice Specs. With Scrappy, Exploud can hit Ghost-types with moves they'd normally be immune to, which eases prediction massively when using moves such as Focus Blast, and of course, Boomburst. Exploud also has the perfect two coverage moves to deal with thingsSteel- and Rock-types that resist Boomburst; Overheat and Focus Blast cover virtually all Steel- and Rock-types. However, one major factor that limits Exploud's wallbreaking capability is its bulk. Exploud has high HP, but its low defensive stats equate to poor bulk overall. It also has a low Speed stat, which makes Exploud incredibly easy to revenge kill with faster attackersPokemon. Nevertheless, it still hits tremendously hard with Boomburst, its one essential niche.

Choice Specs
########
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Boomburst
move 2: Overheat
move 3: Focus Blast
move 4: Flamethrower / Surf
ability: Scrappy
item: Choice Specs
nature: Modest
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

Moves
========
Boomburst is the move you'llExploud be using the majority of the time, as it is incredibly powerful and can even hit Ghost-types thanks to Scrappy, as well as hit through Substitutes, which means Pokemon that would normally be safe from being revenge killed are no trouble for Exploud. Even some Steel-types are 2HKOed by Boomburst, including Excadrill, Mega Mawile, and Scizor. However, for a more effective way of of getting rid of these Pokemon, you can't go past Overheat is used. It covers half of the Pokemon that resist Boomburst, Steel-types, with Aegislash being the most relevant target. With Overheat, Exploud is actually a fairly decent check to Aegislash, as it can switch in on a Shadow Ball and is immune to Aegislash's only priority attack, Shadow Sneak. Meanwhile, Focus Blast hits Rock-types, most notably Tyranitar, as well as Heatran, which is immune to Overheat(You might also want to mention that Focus Blast also hits Steel-types.). Exploud covers so much in justwith these three moves that the move in the fourth slot is basically just down to personal preference. Flamethrower hits Steel-types without forcing youExploud out due to the Special Attack drop, while Surf is a more reliable method of dealing withhitting Heatran.

Set Details
========
The item choice is rather obvious, as Choice Specs just makes Exploud sovery powerful. A Modest nature adds to this, andas Exploud doesn't need to runuse a Speed boosting nature as it sits at an awkward Speed tier. However, this doesn't stop Speed investment from beingis still useful to benefit from Sticky Web orand to outspeed defensive Pokemon that don't invest in their Speed stat, such as Rotom-W. The Special Attack investment is obvious in orderused to increase Exploud's power, while Scrappy is chosen for the ability over Soundproof as it enables Exploud to hit Ghost-types with both Boomburst and Focus Blast. It is important to note that if you are using Exploud to receive Speed boosts from a Baton Pass user, Life Orb is a fine choice for thean item as youExploud have overall much better sweeping potential with the freedom to change moves.

Usage Tips
========
Exploud should not be used as a sweeper as it is simply too slow to sweep. Instead, as you may have gathered, itExploud is most comfortable in the role of a wallbreaker, which it pulls off effectively with the great power of Boomburst. In regards to Boomburst, even Pokemon that resist it take a hefty chunklarge amount of damage from it, so it is a safe move to use in most situations and is definitely the move that should be used the most. When targeting Steel-types, it must be remembered that two consecutive Overheats is more powerful than two consecutive Flamethrowers, so it is generally the preferable move to use against Steel-types. Finally, it is incredibly important to understand that Exploud isn't that bulky, so it shouldn't try to frequently switch into attacks. Try using teammates with Volt Switch or U-turn to guarantee that itExploud gets in safely.

Team Options
========
Partners that have some way of remedying Exploud's major flaw—its poor Speed—are really helpful. There are a variety of ways to do this; Sticky Web is one of the best as it easy to set up and affects the majority of Pokemon that the opponent could send outExploud's common switch-ins. Common users of the move are Smeargle and Galvantula. If the opponent has Sticky Web on their side of the field, then Exploud is able to outspeed thingsPokemon such as Jolly Terrakion and Timid Keldeo, as well as anything below this benchmark that it couldn't outspeed before. If using Sticky Web, a way of beatinga teammate capable of defeating Bisharp, such as Keldeo or Conkeldurr, is recommended, such as Keldeo or Conkeldurr. If Sticky Web isn't your cup of tea, then another way to boost Exploud's Speed is by using it as the receiver of Speed boosts from a Pokemon with Baton Pass.(RP), Scolipede being the best example for this. U-turn and Volt Switch users can get Exploud into battle safely while retaining momentum. Landorus-T can check the physical Fighting-types that trouble Exploud, but Rotom-W and Scizor are also good choices. A physical wallbreaker is a great partner to break through the special walls that trouble Exploud. Terrakion, Mega Pinsir, and Kyurem-B are all great in this regard. Pursuit trappers, such as Bisharp, Aegislash, and Tyranitar, are pretty good choices for beatingteammates to defeat Chansey and Blissey, such as Bisharp, Aegislash, and Tyranitar. In general, any team with Exploud need a way of beatingdefeating Chansey and Blissey. Strong Fighting-types such as Keldeo and Terrakion can do the trick are able to accomplish this, as does Landorus orand Landorus-T with Knock Off, which cripples Chansey severely,(RC) and does a heftylarge amount of damage to Blissey. As much as Chansey hates Knock Off, the lack of Leftovers is also not ideal for Blissey.(This sentence feels unnecessary and rather awkard.) Another perk of Landorus and Landorus-T is that they bothalso resist Fighting-type moves.

Other Options
########
A Silk Scarf is a good choicecan be used as an alternative item,(AC) as it gives Exploud the freedom to switch moves. It is better used on sets that receive Speed boosts, as otherwise youExploud gives up a lot of wallbreaking potential.

Checks & Counters
########
**Chansey and Blissey**: Due to their excellent Special Defense, Chansey and Blissey completely wall Exploud,(RC) and they can reliably stall it out with Toxic while recovering off theany damage that they take with either Soft-Boiled or Wish + Protect. This makes these two Pokemon arguably the best switch-ins to Exploud in the game.

**Sylveon**: Specially defensive Sylveon only has a 0.4%low chance to be 2HKOed by Exploud's Boomburst after Leftovers recovery and can wear it down with Hyper Voice while recovering off any the damage it takes with Wish, so it is safe to say thatmaking it is a decent check to itExploud, as it can wear it down with Hyper Voice while recovering off the damage it takes with Wish + Protect. However, for itSylveon to be a reliable switch-in, Stealth Rock must be off the field.

**Fast Fighting-types**: Powerful, fast Fighting-types such as Terrakion, Keldeo, Lucario, and Mega Medicham can revenge kill Exploud with incredible ease, as they are all faster than itExploud and possess a STAB Fighting-type move to swiftly OHKO Exploudit.

**Conkeldurr**: Assault Vest Conkeldurr differs itself from other, faster Fighting-types in its method of KOingdefeating Exploud. While itConkeldurr can't switch into on itExploud without risking being 2HKOed, it can simply come on after Exploud has attained a KO, tank a Boomburst, and then OHKO Exploud with Drain Punch, recovering some of the HP lost in the process. If Exploud is at around 64% HP, Conkeldurr can safely KOrevenge kill it with Mach Punch.

**Talonflame**: Talonflame can safely OHKO Exploud after Stealth Rock with its own priority Brave Bird,(RC) even though it can(remove space)not switch directly into Boomburst or Surf.

**Thundurus-T**: Thundurus-T can switch into on a Surf or a Focus Blast,(RC) and OHKO Exploud back with a Focus Blast of its own. It can also use Focus Blast to safely revenge kill it.(This sentence seems fairly unnecessary.)
 
Last edited:

AccidentalGreed

Sweet and bitter as chocolate.
is a Forum Moderator Alumnusis a Top Contributor Alumnus
TRC.

I'd like to know your reasoning for mentioning / isolating Talonflame and Thundurus-T in the Checks and Counter section in particular. The section containing Thundurus-T also seems odd, since by that logic any faster Pokemon that can hit decently hard and outrun and KO Exploud (252 SpA Life Orb Sheer Force Landorus Earth Power vs. 4 HP / 4 SpD Exploud: 294-347 (84 - 99.1%) -- 75% chance to OHKO after Stealth Rock).
 

PISTOLERO

I come to bury Caesar, not to praise him.
I have only one question: why is the name of the Choice Specs set not Spexploud or Specsploud?

on a more serious note: I'm curious as to why Overheat and Flamethrower would be on the same set. would it not be better to run Fire Blast/something else, or just run Fire Blast>Overheat? or does Overheat, say, OHKO a certain Aegis where Fire Blast doesn't/another notable example where Overheat is better than Fire Blast? also, wouldn't Overheat outdamage Flamethrower over two turns? I'm not criticising, I'm just curious as to what Overheat accomplishes that Fire Blast doesn't...?
 
Last edited:

Aragorn the King

Literally a duck
is a Forum Moderator Alumnusis a Community Contributor Alumnus
I have only one question: why is the name of the Choice Specs set not Spexploud or Specsploud?

on a more serious note: I'm curious as to why Overheat and Flamethrower would be on the same set. would it not be better to run Fire Blast/something else, or just run Fire Blast>Overheat? or does Overheat, say, OHKO a certain Aegis where Fire Blast doesn't/another notable example where Overheat is better than Fire Blast? also, wouldn't Overheat outdamage Flamethrower over two turns? I'm not criticising, I'm just curious as to what Overheat accomplishes that Fire Blast doesn't...?
Overheat is for the sheer power, and the ability to beat Aegislash in one turn. Flamethrower is just for killing pokemon that will obviously collapse to any fire move, like Scizor. Also:

Two Overheats: 130 + 65 = 195
Two Flamethrowers: 90 + 90 = 180

If you need to break one thing, and one thing only, Overheat is better. But Flamethrower is still a safer option. Surf should only be used if your team is excessively weak to Heatran, and 70% accuracy scares you.
 

tehy

Banned deucer.
amcheck

a lot of fluff here, so i made some cuts in that regard.

Overview
########
With the gift of just one move, Boomburst, Exploud became a powerful wallbreaker. Boomburst is responsible for any shred of viability Exploud could ever have in OU, simply because it hits like a wrecking ball when Exploud is equipped with Choice Specs. With Scrappy, Exploud can hit Ghost-types with moves they'd normally be immune to, which eases prediction when using moves such asBoomburst and Focus Blast, and of course, Boomburst. Exploud also has the perfect two coverage moves to deal with things that resist Boomburst; Overheat and Focus Blast cover virtually all Steel- and Rock-types. However, one major factor that limits Exploud's wallbreaking capability is its bulk. Exploud has high HP, but its low defensive stats equate to poor bulk overall, which limits its wallbreaking potential. It also has a low Speed stat, which makes Exploud incredibly easy to revenge kill with faster attackers. Nevertheless, it still hits tremendously hard with Boomburst, its one essential niche.

Choice Specs
########
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Boomburst
move 2: Overheat
move 3: Focus Blast
move 4: Flamethrower / Surf
ability: Scrappy
item: Choice Specs
nature: Modest
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

Moves
========
Boomburst is the move you'll be using the majority of the time, as it is incredibly powerful and can even hit Ghost-types thanks to Scrappy, as well as hit through Substitutes, which means Pokemon that would normally be safe from being revenge killed are no trouble for Exploud. Even some Steel-types are 2HKOed by Boomburst, including Excadrill, Mega Mawile, and Scizor. However, for a more effective way of getting rid of these Pokemon, you can't go pastgive Overheat a try. It covers half of the Pokemon that resist Boomburst, Steel-types, with Aegislash being the most relevant target. With Overheat, Exploud is actually a fairly decent check to Aegislash, as it can switch in on a Shadow Ball and is immune to Aegislash's only priority attack, Shadow Sneak. Meanwhile, Focus Blast hits Rock-types, most notably Tyranitar, as well as Steel-types, most notably Heatran, whicho is immune to Overheat, and again, it hits Steel-types. Exploud covers so much in just these three moves that the move in the fourth slot is basically just down to personal preference. Flamethrower hits Steel-types without forcing you out due to the Special Attack drop, while Surf is a more reliable method of dealing with Heatran.

Set Details
========
The item choice is rather obvious, as Choice Specs just makes Exploud so powerful. A Modest nature adds to this, and Exploud doesn't need to run a Speed boosting nature as it sits at an awkward Speed tier. However, this doesn't stop Speed investment from being useful to benefit from Sticky Web and to outspeed defensive Pokemon that don't invest in their Speed stat, such as Rotom-W. The Special Attack investment is obviously in order to increase Exploud's power, while Scrappy is chosen for the ability over Soundproof as it enables Exploud to hit Ghost-types with both Boomburst and Focus Blast. It is important to note that if you are using Exploud to receive Speed boosts from a Baton Pass user, Life Orb is a fine item choice as you have much better sweeping potential overall with the freedom to change moves.

Usage Tips
========
Exploud should not be used as a sweeper as it is simply too slow to sweep. Instead, Exploud is most comfortable in the role of a wallbreaker, which it pulls off effectively with the great power of Boomburst. In regards to Boomburst, even Pokemon that resist it take a hefty chunk from it, so it is a safe move to use in most situations and is definitely the move that should be used the most. When targeting Steel-types, it must be rememberedNote that two consecutive Overheats isare more powerful than two consecutive Flamethrowers, so it is generally the preferable move to usebetter against Steel-types. Finally, it is incredibly important to understand that Exploud isn't that bulky, so it shouldn't try to frequently switch into attacks. Try using teammates with Volt Switch or U-turn to guarantee that it gets in safely.

Team Options
========
Partners that have some way of remedying Exploud's major flaw—its poor Speed—are really helpful. There are a variety of ways to do this; Sticky Web is one of the best as it easy to set up and affects the majority of Exploud's common switch-ins. Common users of the move are Smeargle and Galvantula. If the opponent has Sticky Web on their side of the field, then Exploud is able to outspeed Pokemon such as Jolly Terrakion and Timid Keldeo, as well as anything below this benchmark that it couldn't outspeed before. If using Sticky Web, a teammate capable of defeating Bisharp, such as Keldeo or Conkeldurr, is recommended. If Sticky Web isn't your cup of tea, then another way to boost Exploud's Speed is by using it as the receiver of Speed boosts from a Pokemon with Baton Pass, Scolipede being the best example for this. U-turn and Volt Switch users can get Exploud into battle safely while retaining momentum. Landorus-T can check the physical Fighting-types that trouble Exploud, but Rotom-W and Scizor are also good choices. A physical wallbreaker is a great partner to break through the special walls that trouble Exploud. Terrakion, Mega Pinsir, and Kyurem-B are all great in this regard. In general, any team with Exploud need a way of beating Chansey and Blissey. Pursuit trappers are pretty good choices for beating Chansey and Blissey, such as Bisharp, Aegislash, and Tyranitar. In general, any team with Exploud need a way of beating Chansey and Blissey. Strong Fighting-types such as Keldeo and Terrakion can do the trick, as doescan Landorus or Landorus-T with Knock Off, which cripples Chansey severely, and does a hefty amount to Blissey. As much as Chansey hates Knock Off, the lack of Leftovers is also not ideal for Blissey. Another perk of using Landorus and Landorus-T is that they both resist Fighting-type moves.

Other Options
########
A Silk Scarf is a good choice as an alternate item as it gives Exploud the freedom to switch moves. It is better used on sets that receive Speed boosts, as otherwise you give up a lot of wallbreaking potential.

Checks & Counters
########
**Chansey and Blissey**: Chansey and Blissey completely wall Exploud, and they can reliably stall it out with Toxic while recovering off the damage that they take with either Soft-Boiled or Wish + Protect. This makes these two Pokemon arguably the best switch-ins to Exploud in the game.

**Sylveon**: Specially defensive Sylveon only has a 0.4% chance to be 2HKOed by Exploud's Boomburst after Leftovers recovery, so it is safe to say that it is a decent check to it, as it can wear it down with Hyper Voice while recovering off the damage it takes with Wish + Protect. However, for it to be a reliable switch-in, Stealth Rock must be off the field.

**Fast Fighting-types**: Powerful, fast Fighting-types such as Terrakion, Keldeo, Lucario, and Mega Medicham can revenge kill Exploud with incredible ease, as they are all faster than it and possess a STAB Fighting-type move to swiftly OHKO Exploud.

**Conkeldurr**: Assault Vest Conkeldurr differs itself from other, faster Fighting-types in its method of KOing Exploud. While it can't switch in on it without risking being 2HKOed, it can simply come on after Exploud has attained a KO, tank a Boomburst, and then OHKO Exploud with Drain Punch, recovering some of the HP lost in the process. If Exploud is at around 64% HP, Conkeldurr can safely KO it with Mach Punch.

**Talonflame**: Talonflame can safely OHKO Exploud after Stealth Rock with its own priority Brave Bird, even though it can not switch directly into Boomburst or Surf.

**Thundurus-T**: Thundurus-T can switch in on a Surf or a Focus Blast, and OHKO Exploud back with a Focus Blast of its own. It can also use Focus Blast to safely revenge kill it.


Comments:

Why the hell do talonflame and thund-t get their own Checks and counters section? Talk about Priority and Faster Strong Attackers. Plus, Thund-t can come in on surf but not flamethrower?

Er...Go past overheat? What i wrote instead isn't exactly in spirit but having something in spirit and correct with the structure wasn't something i could do at the time.

Steel-types are more than half of the pokemon that resist boomburst, assuming you talk about relevant targets-i know you weren't, but you should be because...yeah.


Why not mention Tailwind as a way for Exploud to get speed?
Why is overheat stated to be preferable move to use against Steel-types in Usage Tips? That's only the case if Flamethrower doesn't already OHKO, which is what you should be saying. If both 2HKO, then that's also a time you might want to use flamethrower, although obviously you might want to use Overheat just to put a larger hole in said steel-type.

Rotom-w and scizor don't really check fighting-types, neither having a resistance or a really good way to damage them, even though rotom-w does have WoW it's not enough really.

Sylveon can just Protect if rocks are up and only have a 32.8% to die.

Why in the name of god are thund-t and talonflame given their own 'checks and counters' section? it should be at best 'strong priority' and then 'faster strong mons'. Read the comments by the way.
 
Although less frequently used, I'd suggest putting specially defensive Zapdos in the C&C section.

252+ SpA Choice Specs Exploud Boomburst vs. 252 HP / 168+ SpD Zapdos: 246-291 (64 - 75.7%) -- 12.5% chance to OHKO after Stealth Rock
68 SpA Zapdos Thunderbolt vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Exploud: 160-190 (45.7 - 54.2%) -- guaranteed 2HKO after Stealth Rock

Although Zapdos can't switch in, it can take one Boomburst, and being naturally faster, reliably kill Exploud with Thunderbolt. Even without SR you have over 50% chance to 2HKO Exploud. I think it's important to mention since there are few defensive 'mons who naturally outspeed Exploud, and can reliably take care of him.
 
Ehh, I don't really think so, the main point of a defensive Pokemon is to be able to switch in. Like, there are many Pokemon powerful enough to OHKO it to revenge kill it, and Zapdos just ends up being weakened for it to take it out.
 

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

Top