[OVERVIEW]
Flygon is one of the most versatile Pokemon in the RU tier. Its amazing Ground / Dragon typing is the key to its success on both offense and defense. It also has great moves in the form of Defog, U-turn, Outrage, Earthquake, and more that allow it to perform at a high level both offensively and defensively. This is further enhanced by Flygon's balanced stat distribution that leaves it with at least an average base in every stat. Levitate is perhaps the biggest boon for Flygon. This, in combination with its typing, makes Flygon the most entry hazard-resilient entry hazard remover in the entire game. Flygon's typing also allows it to check the likes of Rhyperior, Houndoom, Mega Camerupt, Delphox, and any Electric-type that doesn't carry Hidden Power Ice reliably.
While its stat distribution lets it perform many roles, Flygon doesn't really have a standout stat that lets it perform one role amazingly. With only average defenses, Flygon is very dependent on its typing and Levitate to perform well defensively. Four-moveslot syndrome is also an issue that generally plagues any Flygon set that isn't Choice Band. Finally, while not a direct flaw of Flygon, there are other, more powerful offensive Dragon-types in the tier, such as Tyrantrum and Druddigon, which give Flygon stiff competition offensively. Nonetheless, Flygon is one of the easiest Pokemon to fit onto any balanced or offensive team due to its versatility and many positive qualities. Just don't expect it to carry your team to victory often, as Flygon simply doesn't have the stats to do that consistently.
[SET]
name: Defensive Defog
move 1: Defog
move 2: Roost
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: U-turn / Toxic / Dragon Tail
item: Leftovers
ability: Levitate
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 116 Def / 116 SDef / 24 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
======
While Flygon's stats don't necessarily scream for a defensive set, its movepool, typing, and ability all make it possible and very effective. Thanks to its high resistance to entry hazards, Flygon can come in to use Defog to remove entry hazards reliably and multiple times throughout the match. Roost gives Flygon reliable recovery to ensure it isn't worn down too quickly by the likes of Houndoom and Mega Camerupt. Earthquake gives Flygon a reliable STAB option that wears down common hazard setters, such as Rhyperior, Mega Steelix, and Qwilfish. The last slot gives Flygon extra utility for certain situations. U-turn is generally preferred, as it allows Flygon to build or maintain momentum for its team. Toxic is an intriguing option, as Flygon is likely to lure out defensive Pokemon such as Jellicent and Alomomola the first time it switches in. Dragon Tail can be helpful in preventing a powerful setup sweeper, such as Calm Mind Meloetta, from sweeping your team. It also gives Flygon a method of punishing opposing Flygon for switching in. While not listed, Fire Punch can be helpful if Flygon's team is very weak to Escavalier or Durant, but it won't be doing much damage against any other Pokemon due to the lack of Attack investment.
Set Details
======
The EV spread, while odd, accomplishes quite a few things for Flygon. First and foremost, the Speed EVs Flygon to outspeed dangerous wallbreakers, such as Adamant Tyrantrum, Rash Samurott, Modest Exploud, and Adamant Emboar, thus allowing Flygon to either KO them with Earthquake or pivot out of them with U-turn. The defensive EVs allow Flygon to avoid the OHKO from +2 Houndoom's Dark Pulse and +2 Drapion's Knock Off and to avoid the 2HKO from Life Orb Delphox's Psyshock, among other things. Leftovers is the only worthwhile item for this set to allow Flygon to switch into resisted hits more reliably without having to use Roost as often.
Usage Tips
======
This Flygon is best used on balanced teams that don't rely on Spikes and need entry hazard control. Flygon is able to check quite a few dangerous threats, such as Rhyperior, Mega Camerupt, and Houndoom, so try to bring it in against such Pokemon to force them out or wall them. If Flygon falls to about 40-45% HP, try to Roost when you force out a Pokemon so Flygon can switch back in reliably later on. Defog is the main appeal of the set, but make sure to use it when a dangerous setup sweeper or Braviary isn't likely to switch in. Earthquake is Flygon's damaging move, but keep in mind that this set's main job is to provide support and stay healthy to keep checking and walling threats on the opposing team. Only use Earthquake if Flygon is in good health and Defog isn't necessary. U-turn builds momentum, so if the above situation presents itself and there's a Pokemon that resists or is immune to Ground on the opposing team, Flygon should use U-turn to chip away at whatever switches in. Toxic is useful in wearing down defensive Pokemon such as Jellicent, Uxie, and Alomomola. Of these, only Jellicent poses an immediate threat to Flygon via Will-O-Wisp, so it's often worth it to stay in to get off the Toxic on these threats. Finally, Dragon Tail is useful against opposing Flygon switching in or any sweeper Flygon can take a hit from but can't immediately KO with Earthquake, such as non-Dazzling Gleam Meloetta or Life Orb Durant.
Team Options
======
As Flygon is likely going to be removing its own team's entry hazards too, it appreciates having bulky Stealth Rock users that can use the move more than once when necessary. Bronzong, Mega Steelix, and Uxie are pretty reliable for this role and can either provide great defensive synergy with Flygon, in the case of Bronzong and Mega Steelix, or form a defensive U-turn core with it, in Uxie's case. Flygon can't really do much to Fairy-types outside of hitting them with Toxic, so it appreciates teammates that can take advantage of these Pokemon. Delphox is the most notable, as it also appreciates Defog support, but Escavalier and Mega Camerupt can also work effectively. If Flygon lacks Dragon Tail, it would be wise to have answers to Durant and Scrafty because they can tank Earthquake easily while setting up Hone Claws and Dragon Dance, respectively. Fletchinder revenge kills Scrafty easily while appreciating Defog support, but Aromatisse and Togetic can also work for more defensively inclined teams and can cure Flygon of annoying status ailments with Aromatherapy and Heal Bell, respectively. Durant is checked pretty well by Emboar and can be revenge killed quite easily by most faster special attackers. These include Jolteon, Choice Scarf Rotom-C, and Choice Scarf Delphox. Bulky Water-type Pokemon, such as Alomomola and Jellicent, don't fear anything from Flygon if it lacks Toxic, so Virizion, offensive Tangrowth, and Grass Knot Meloetta can prove to be useful partners. Steel-types such as Bronzong and Mega Steelix can handle most Ice-type attacks aimed at Flygon, but Sneasel can hit both with the appropriate move for heavy damage; Emboar is a suitable answer for Sneasel. Finally, any Pokemon that likes not having to deal with entry hazards will benefit from this Flygon. Fletchinder, Houndoom, Delphox, and most Choice item Pokemon can take advantage of Flygon's typing and Defog support.
[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Outrage
move 2: Earthquake
move 3: U-turn
move 4: Defog / Dragon Claw / Tailwind
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Levitate
nature: Adamant / Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
======
Flygon's typing, ability, and base 100 Attack and Speed stats combine to form a solid and reliable revenge killer when equipped with a Choice Scarf. Outrage and Earthquake provide amazing coverage and are capable of OHKOing most offensive Pokemon in the tier. However, be careful of using Outrage too early as it forces Flygon to stay in. U-turn provides chip damage to Flygon's checks and counters while maintaining momentum. Flygon's final moveslot is dedicated to a utility option depending on its team. Defog can remove entry hazards late-game once Flygon has removed faster threats from the opposing team but is unable to clean up. Dragon Claw is pretty weak, but it is useful for giving Flygon a safe Dragon-type STAB move to use early-game when it needs to. Finally, Tailwind can give a three-turn Speed boost to a teammate that can oftentimes be enough to let that teammate win the game.
Set Details
======
The EVs are pretty standard for a physical Choice Scarf user. The remaining four EVs are placed in Defense to act as a slight buffer to random priority moves not named Ice Shard. Adamant is the preferred nature on this set as, even with a neutral nature, Flygon outspeeds Timid Choice Scarf Rotom-C, the most common Choice Scarf user that sits below Flygon's Speed tier. However, a Jolly nature is useful if Flygon's team is weak to less common Choice Scarf users such as Hitmonlee, Meloetta, and Houndoom.
Usage Tips
======
Flygon is a pretty unique Choice Scarf user in RU. Unlike most other Choice Scarf users, Flygon has the ability to provide utility while revenge killing multiple threats as needed. Its high resilience to entry hazards also means that you can switch Flygon into battle more aggressively than other Choice Scarf users in RU. As Choice Scarf Flygon has the fastest U-turn in the tier, it can be a very effective scouting lead to possibly put some early pressure on the opponent. The late game is when Flygon is most flexible. It can either set up a teammate to win the game or simply clean up the opposing team with one of its powerful STAB moves. Speaking of its STAB moves, Earthquake is much safer to use in the early game. If you have a choice between Earthquake or Outrage to revenge kill a dangerous threat, always pick Earthquake. If Flygon uses Outrage too early, it could easily find itself KOed or giving up a free setup opportunity to Durant, which isn't a very easy Pokemon to switch into.
Team Options
======
Flygon isn't like most other Choice Scarf users. A lot of the support Flygon wants is optional and not mandatory to make it perform at optimal capacity. Instead, it supports the team it's on most of the time. However, there are ways to help make Flygon's life easier. Entry hazards can amplify the effects of U-turn, as Flygon loves nothing more than to chip down its checks and counters early. Accelgor, Seismitoad, and Qwilfish are all reliable entry hazard users for offensive teams. Perhaps the biggest thing Flygon needs would be teammates that can handle Fairy- and Steel-types reliably. Delphox, Emboar, Gallade, and Hitmonlee can all do this quite well. Alternatively, you can use Life Orb Druddigon or Choice Band Tyrantrum to form a Double Dragon core with Flygon that focuses on wearing down their similar checks and counters. Late-game sweepers that appreciate boosted Speed from Tailwind, removal of Stealth Rock from Defog, or both are worthy options to consider. Delphox, Fletchinder, Meloetta, and Hitmonlee can all benefit from at least one of these moves. Finally, Flygon can work quite nicely in VoltTurn cores. Jolteon and Rotom-C are the most noteworthy Volt Switch users, while Choice Band Braviary is a powerful U-turn user.
[SET]
name: Offensive Defog
move 1: Draco Meteor
move 2: Earth Power
move 3: Defog
move 4: Fire Blast / Roost
item: Life Orb
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid
evs: 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
======
Flygon's base 80 Special Attack stat isn't amazing, but Draco Meteor's Base Power makes up for that. Draco Meteor is the primary STAB move of this set and hits quite a few common switch-ins really hard. Rhyperior and Alomomola are common Outrage tanks, but both take a lot of damage from Draco Meteor. Earth Power is used over Earthquake on this set to hit common entry hazard users such as Qwilfish and Mega Steelix much harder. Defog allows Flygon to remove entry hazards from the field, which can greatly aid a teammate that's weak to them. The last slot gives Flygon either extra coverage or some longevity. Fire Blast is preferred due to the offensive nature of this set, allowing Flygon to hit Bronzong, a common Stealth Rock user, for heavy damage. Roost is a solid alternative that allows Flygon to heal off Life Orb recoil and resisted attacks it takes throughout the match. Iron Tail can be used to hit the likes of Togetic and Aromatisse for solid damage if Flygon's team has trouble with them, but it won't do a lot without significant Attack investment.
Set Details
======
The EV spread maximizes Speed and Special Attack so Flygon can hit as hard and as fast as possible. Timid is the necessary nature on this set so Flygon can outspeed the likes of Houndoom and Hitmonlee if they aren't Choice Scarf variants. If you're using Iron Tail, a Naive nature should be used to avoid gimping its power. Modest and Rash natures are tempting to use, but missing out on outspeeding Houndoom is too much of a price to pay. Life Orb is the only item that should be considered, as it gives a much-needed power boost to Flygon's attacks.
Usage Tips
======
This Flygon isn't a durable Defogger. It gets off Defog by imposing its offensive presence on the opponent. When attacking with Flygon, it's usually best to open up with Earth Power. It's a safe, reliable STAB move that has no drawbacks and solid neutral coverage. Draco Meteor is best used when something like Alomomola or Jellicent is likely to switch into Flygon. Try to catch them, as they'll likely switch back out if they get hit with Earth Power, in fear of Draco Meteor. Fire Blast is best used when the likes of Bronzong and Assault Vest Escavalier switch in. Bronzong doesn't fear Flygon's STAB moves at all while Assault Vest Escavalier can comfortably tank Earth Powers, which means both are likely to stay in unless Flygon switches into them. Without Roost, Flygon will likely only get one chance to Defog, so make sure that opposing entry hazard setters are weakened or outright KOed before using the move. When running Roost over Fire Blast, it's best to use when you expect a defensive Fairy-type to switch in, as Flygon won't be able to cause meaningful damage to them anyway.
Team Options
======
Offensive Pokemon that appreciate the removal of Stealth Rock and Steel- and Rock-type Pokemon appreciate this Flygon. Fletchinder is an ideal choice, as Flygon takes care of virtually everything it struggles with, even severely denting Alomomola with Draco Meteor. Others to consider are Substitute + Calm Mind Meloetta, Substitute + Calm Mind Uxie, and Rock Polish Tyrantrum. If Flygon lacks Fire Blast, it will need a teammate to deal with Bronzong. Scrafty, Delphox, and Houndoom can put serious pressure on Bronzong, but the Fire-types need to be careful of Earthquake. Togetic and, to a lesser extent, Aromatisse and Mega Audino fear next to nothing from Flygon if it lacks Iron Tail. Durant and Mega Steelix can pressure these Fairy-types quite easily, but they must be careful of Mega Audino's tank set catching them with Fire Blast. This can easily be scouted for by calculating the damage Mega Audino takes from switching into Flygon's Earth Power, though. Finally, late-game cleaners can pick apart what Flygon leaves behind. Jolteon and Accelgor are the two fastest non-Choice Scarf Pokemon that are relevant. Choice Scarf variants of Rotom-C, Hitmonlee, and Medicham are also wise options to consider. Choice Scarf Tyrantrum deserves special mention for forming a Double Dragon core with Flygon that can quickly wear down their checks and counters.
[SET]
name: Choice Band
move 1: Outrage
move 2: Earthquake
move 3: U-turn
move 4: Iron Tail
item: Choice Band
ability: Levitate
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
======
Flygon has just enough tools at its disposal to make a Choice Band set viable and effective. Outrage is Flygon's main STAB move and will do serious damage to most Pokemon that don't resist or are immune to it. However, it is very risky to use if Fairy-types are present. Earthquake provides Flygon with a reliable STAB move that still deals heavy damage to most targets. U-turn allows Flygon to scout for and chip away at its checks and counters while maintaining momentum for its team. Iron Tail fills the last slot, as it is Flygon's only means of handling Togetic, and it deals a stronger blow to Aromatisse and Mega Audino. Toxic, Dragon Claw, and Defog all have uses if Iron Tail doesn't fit your needs. Toxic can weaken the aforementioned Fairy-types over time as well as any defensive Pokemon that Flygon could potentially struggle to get past. Dragon Claw is a safer, yet weaker Dragon-type STAB move that is quite usable early-game. Finally, Defog can remove entry hazards from the field, but it is a very risky move to lock into.
Set Details
======
Flygon wants to hit as hard and as fast as possible, so maximum Speed and Attack EVs are used with a Jolly nature. It's tempting to run an Adamant nature, but there are multiple reasons this isn't advised; Choice Band already gives the power boost Flygon wants, and a Jolly nature puts Flygon ahead of key threats such as Meloetta and Houndoom.
Usage Tips
======
As this Flygon wants to break down walls, it can be played much more aggressively than its other sets. When you're in doubt, simply use U-turn. U-turn is generally a risk-free move considering Flygon doesn't really care about entry hazards, and Flygon's high Speed tier makes it all the better. Be careful when using Outrage. Using it too early could result in Flygon being revenge killed prematurely, so only use it if you need its power to remove a significant threat or primary obstacle for your team. Earthquake is fairly safe to throw out, as most common switch-ins with a Ground immunity are defensive in nature. It's a good move to lock Flygon into if you want to keep it in the battle. Granbull and Togetic are the primary targets of Iron Tail. Try to catch them switching in with the move whenever possible. While it's nice to also catch Aromatisse and Mega Audino, they take hefty damage from Earthquake as it is. Toxic is a great tool to catch Alomomola with, as well as Togetic and Granbull. Dragon Claw is generally like Earthquake. If Flygon has it and you want it to stay in the battle, it's a good move to use. If Defog is used, be extra careful when you select it. It's a very exploitable move to be locked into, so only use it when Flygon has served its purpose, the hazard removal is required for you to win the game, and Flygon will instantly be KOed by the opponent after using the move. If any setup sweeper is left on the opposing team, it's generally safer to throw out a STAB move.
Team Options
======
Most Pokemon that appreciate Steel- and Rock-type Pokemon being weakened or outright KOed work well with Flygon. Tyrantrum is the most notable, as it shares similar checks and counters with Flygon and can generally sweep or revenge kill threats unimpeded with Flygon around. Meloetta and Braviary are other notable options. Flygon has a very powerful U-turn, so VoltTurn cores are certainly worth considering. Jolteon and Rotom-C are good for this, and they can also sweep late-game after Flygon has broken down opposing defensive cores. Entry hazards, especially Spikes, are useful to amplify the effects of U-turn. Accelgor, Qwilfish, and Seismitoad work well for offensive teams. Bulky offensive teams can use Uxie, Mega Steelix, and Qwilfish effectively. Uxie can notably provide Thunder Wave support to make it easier for Flygon to clean up late-game on top of breaking down defensive cores. Mega Steelix and Qwilfish provide solid pivots for Flygon to fall back on when it's forced out due to the solid defensive synergy they share. The less Flygon has to predict with Iron Tail, the better. Delphox, Mega Camerupt, and Durant are useful for punishing Fairy-type switch-ins. Flygon loathes Ice-type Pokemon as well as opposing Choice Scarf Flygon and Tyrantrum. Mega Steelix is a solid response that can outright wall Tyrantrum if it's a Choice Scarf variant. Steel-types aren't as big of an issue, but they do deter Flygon from using its strongest move mid-game. Emboar, Scrafty, Gallade, and Medicham can work well, as can all of the aforementioned Fire-types, such as Delphox and Mega Camerupt. Finally, late-game sweepers are appreciated to clean up what Flygon leaves behind. Of the teammates already mentioned for other reasons, Tyrantrum, Rotom-C, Jolteon, Medicham, and Braviary are capable of doing this effectively due to a Choice Scarf or high natural Speed.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
===============
Outside of what has been mentioned in the above sets, Flygon has very limited options. Substitute can be used in conjunction with Dragon Tail for a defensive phazing set, but such a set faces stiff competition from Druddigon. Hone Claws is the only boosting move Flygon has access to, but while it does allow Flygon to use Dragon Rush and Iron Tail reliably, there are too many faster threats that can revenge kill Flygon. Choice Specs can be used, but Flygon prefers the ability to switch moves and reliably support its team with Defog when using special attacks. Flygon has a lot of colorful coverage options, such as Giga Drain, Thunder Punch, Signal Beam, and Superpower, but they are all either too weak or simply don't provide it with notable coverage that make them worth using over Flygon's primary options. Finally, Flygon can utilize a Sunny Day support set, as its typing and access to Defog are very useful for sun teams. However, sun is a rare playstyle in RU.
Checks and Counters
=============
**Togetic**: Togetic is the best Flygon counter. Outside of max Attack Iron Tail, Togetic fears nothing from Flygon and does as it pleases. It even has reliable recovery in Roost to stay healthy.
**Bronzong**: Fire Blast hurts Bronzong and it is easier to wear down than Togetic through U-turn, but it doesn't care about either STAB type. Toxic wears down defensive sets, and Gyro Ball punishes offensive sets.
**Ice Shard users**: Sneasel and Mega Glalie are the two most prominent Ice Shard users. Neither can switch in, but both can pick off Flygon with ease. Although rare, Piloswine is notable for being able to take any hit from Flygon and hit back with Ice Shard.
**Bulky Steel-types**: Most bulky Steel-types hate Earthquake or Fire Blast, but they can at least discourage Flygon from using Outrage or Draco Meteor early. Escavalier, Mega Steelix, Registeel, and Durant are all solid, but they're all prone to being worn down quickly.
**Bulky Fairy-types**: Bulky Fairy-types are excellent checks or counters to Flygon, as Iron Tail isn't common, they're neutral to Earthquake, and they're completely immune to Dragon-type moves. Aromatisse and Mega Audino are your best options outside of the aforementioned Togetic due to having reliable recovery. Granbull lacks reliable recovery, but it has Intimidate to soften up possible Earthquakes.
**Fletchinder**: Fletchinder can come in easily on the defensive set and set up a Swords Dance if Dragon Tail isn't present. Choiced sets that lock into Earthquake can also be set up on. If Flygon is weak enough, Fletchinder can just revenge kill it with Gale Wings Acrobatics.
**Alomomola**: As long as it avoids Draco Meteor from the offensive Defog set, Alomomola can beat Flygon. It can Toxic defensive variants and use Scald's burn chance to pressure offensive variants.
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