Hello everyone!
I'm here once again with another team I thought up that has a chance to dominate in the VGC 2020 format. Since I have a VGC 2020 team on Pokemon Shield, I figured why not have one in Pokemon Sword as well? It can make your brain tick when you test each and every Pokemon team you can think of. The team I thought up is mostly built around Coalossal, a fiery behemoth who stops at nothing when the Steam Engine's up and running. After thinking what Pokemon are best suited for the job, here's the result I present to you. Here they are!
Dragapult
Nature: Jolly
IVs: 31/31/31/0/31/31
EVs: 4 HP/252 Atk/252 Spe
Ability: Clear Body
Held Item: Life Orb/Focus Sash
Phantom Force
Dragon Darts
Surf
Dragon Dance
Dragapult proved to all us that it brings Dragonite to shame with its real immense Speed and does not falter when it comes to sonic booms! I mean hello, it's a stealth bomber Pokemon for crying out loud! Strong in both Single battles and Double battles, many few Pokemon would ever have a chance to outspeed it or not at all after a Dragon Dance. This Dragapult takes the role as a lead, physical sweeper with its limited choice of moves unfortunately. You may be asking why it knows Surf, correct? Well, read the paragraph down and I'll tell you why.
Phantom Force may take a turn to set up to deliver a strong hit, but it has great use when it comes to strategies. When it Dynamaxes, Max Phantasm lowers the opponent's guard, making Escavalier and Arcanine deal more damage. Power Herb could be an optional choice, but that involves a bit of rethinking. Dragon Darts was chosen for wide sweeps, increasing the chances of KO'ing weakened opponents and Dragon Dance is what makes it a powerhouse to begin with. Now Surf is an interesting choice after my experience in the previous competition I've joined. It may have petite power, but it has a big use not on my opponents but for Coalossal when paired up with it. On the first turn, the main thing to do is to set up Coalossal when it Gigantamaxes. Dragapult goes for the Surf, hits its partner, activating its dangerous Steam Engine ability which maximizes its Speed, then Weakness Policy comes into effect, sharply increasing its power. After the set up, Coalossal begins its demolition spree! It has 0 IVs in Special Attack because I want Coalossal to take as less damage as possible.
With its spectacular supersonic speed, it becomes EXTREMLY vulnerable to Trick Room Pokemon. Have you ever watched these moments on television where everything goes slow-mo for special effects? Well, it pretty much what would happen when Trick Room's up and the result wouldn't be favorable. It also has trouble against Fairy-types such as Sylveon, Togekiss and the worst out of them, Grimmsnarl with any set. I make it go for an emergency bailout if it faces any of these threats.
Coalossal
Nature: Modest
IVs: 31/0/31/31/31/31
EVs: 252 HP/4 Def/252 Sp. Atk
Ability: Steam Engine
Held Item: Weakness Policy
Heat Wave
Ancient Power
Solar Beam
Earth Power
Ah, Coalossal. The main star of the team and a good reason why. This Pokemon relies on all-out sweeps once its been set up thanks to Dragapult. With great type-variety and destructive power, it's gonna be real tough throwing this powerhouse off the rails. It'll be like that one scene form The Unstoppable when 777 smashed a truck to smithereens.
If by any chance Coalossal does not Gigantamax or returns to normal, Heat Wave is a handy move for hitting both opponents at once. Hitting both targets is the key to victory. Ancient Power unfortunately is its only special-attacking Rock move but it still comes in handy when it Gigantamaxes, especially when the secondary effect kicks in. Solar Beam for it to learn Max Overgrowth to counter what its weakness against such as opposing Gastrodon, Seismitoad and Quagsire and Earth Power to win against mirror-matches and more type coverage.
It's very strong ability comes with a cost, it has tons and TONS of type weaknesses but that's the purpose for Weakness Policy. But it also becomes susceptible to Fake Out users right on the first turn. Oh wait, Gigantamaxed Pokemon do not flinch. Hmm, if I know what Colossal will have trouble with...it's Rain Dance teams and Choice Scarf users such as Dracovish. The Fishous Rend doubles in power when the user moves after the opponent, which can OHKO Coalossal if my Gastrodon is not out on the field. Plus, Rain Dance can leave it rusting after a powerful Water-type move, even when it Gigantamaxes so if I ever see a team that would rely on Rain Dance, Gastrodon's the answer.
Escavalier
Nature: Brave
IVs: 31/31/31/x/31/0
EVs: 252 HP/84 Atk/44 Def/128 Sp. Def
Ability: Overcoat
Held Item: Occa Berry/Life Orb
Megahorn
Iron Head
Swords Dance/Knock Off
Substitute/Protect
I feel like this bug knight in shining armor definitely needs more attention due to how dangerous it is in Trick Room. Escavalier is what I thought would be awesome to counter other Trick Room teams and when paired with Dusclops. Not only is it strong, its bulky as well and it can successfully take on the likes of Hatterenes and Indeedees if I play my cards right. Back in the days of Pokemon Black 2, I've encountered a SubSword Escavalier so I thought the role would be effective in this meta game. So I chose a more defensive EV spread for this one to handle attacks more. Rhyperior did it so why can't Escavalier?
Both Megahorn and Iron Head are needed for this Pokemon to charge in and strike! No questions asked on those. The third option can be either Swords Dance for some extra oomph or Knock Off to get rid of Eviolites. Galarian Corsola is a concern that's been on my mind so I wondered if by getting rid of items, result would be in my favor. The fourth option is either Substitute to keep it safe from status-afflicting move or Protect for Speed priority. It all comes down to which moveset has the best synergy for this team.
Even though its a brave, insect warrior who fights for honor, a single, Fire-type attack turns it to a crisp. Not only that, it becomes very weak when burned as it cripples its Attack by half. Those two are the main drawbacks of this Pokemon. Basically, any Fire-type Pokemon or knows who know a Fire-type move wouldn't have any trouble going up against Escavalier. Sunny Day teams are its worst nightmare when the sun's out and the skies are clear, which is why I was in a bit of a pickle picking either Substitute or Protect as a fourth option. The Occa Berry can help it take just one Fire-type attack but even after that, it becomes more susceptible to being KO'd. Nevertheless, it's a great Pokemon if used correctly.
Dusclops
Nature: Relaxed
IVs: 31/0/31/x/31/0
EVs: 252 HP/96 Def/160 Sp.Def
Held Item: Eviolite
Night Shade
Will-o-Wisp
Trick Room
Imprison
This old-school Pokemon back in the Hoenn days is here again with its Eviolite bulk and Trick Room support. It provides great synergy with Gastrodon and Escavalier because let's face it, they're gonna need it when it comes to Speed advantages and disadvantages. This team member's role is to disrupt opposing plays whether they would be hyper physically offensive, relies on Trick Room or bringing fast opponents to a stand still. Dusclops is the mummy now!
It doesn't have to worry about how much Attack it has since Night Shade does a fixed amount of damage. The number 50 can be a big game-changer. Will-o-Wisp shuts down opposing physical sweepers such as Gyarados, Mimikyu and Tyranitar. It's own Trick Room can either bring support to Gastrodon and Escavalier or stop similar setups on the other side of the field. Lastly, Imprison. Imprison is to completely shut down Trick Room setters such as Hatterene and Clefable. Want to make YOUR slow Pokemon outspeed mine? Too bad!
As it is a bulky supporter, it becomes Trick and Taunt-bait against the likes of Grimmsnarl, Sableye and Whimsicott and weak to Knock Off users. In my opinion, the worst Pokemon it would face is Obstagoon. Obstagoon has a type advantage against Dusclops, learns Knock Off and if it has Guts, becomes stronger when burnt by the Will-o-Wisp. So I better watch out for it if I ever get to pick Dusclops.
Gastrodon
Nature: Quiet
IVs: 31/0/31/31/31/0
EVs: 168 HP/252 Sp.Atk/88 Sp.Def
Ability: Storm Drain
Held Item: Leftovers
Earth Power
Scald
Icy Wind
Recover
This Pokemon is the best answer for Rain Dance teams. The Storm Drain ability is SO good as it draws in Water-type moves and make them increases its Special Attack instead. A great partner for Coalossal and Dragapult when it comes to leading the team to victory. This Pokemon ain't no slug in the arena, it's a formidable Pokemon that goes all the way!
Earth Power and Scald are its main STAB moves which have good coverage combined. Any Fire-types such as Charizard, Centiskorch shall be washed up! Icy Wind is used to slow down opponents for its partner to gain the upper hand. A useful move to have in these circumstances. Lastly, we can't have a bulk sweeper with Recover now, can't it? It needs the move with the combination of Leftovers for it to play the long game and wear down enemies.
Since it's not holding a Rindo Berry, a Grass-type move marks doom for this Pokemon. Even Icy Wind cannot save it since it relies on Trick Room due to having no Speed IVs. It is also another team member that can be Trick and Taunt-bait due to the role it plays. If it's holding any kind of Choice item, its plays will be limited. A Trick or Taunt Grimmsnarl is the main threat to watch out for due to how it plays out.
Arcanine
Nature: Adamant
IVs: 31/31/31/x/31/31
EVs: 4 HP/252 Atk/252 Spe
Ability: Intimidate
Held Item: Muscle Band
Flare Blitz
Wild Charge
Extreme Speed
Morning Sun/Protect
For the last team member, I had to think carefully. I looked at my team and felt it's lacking in the physical-attacking department particularly weak to Corviknights when Coalossal's not around. So I wonder what other physical attacker would be good for this team and my answer...is Arcanine. This loyal companion provides Intimidate support while packing a heavy punch. I've found out that this Pokemon does work well with Coalossal so with its physical moveset along with Muscle Band, it can really heat up battles. Still need to wonder why it's called a "Legendary Pokemon" even though its not really classified as a legendary.
Flare Blitz is a must-have for this Pokemon. It hits hard against those who have a disadvantage against it. Wild Charge is need to take on the likes of Gyarados, Mantine, Pelipper and Barraskewda. Nothing like putting a shock to your opponents. Extreme Speed is to finish off opponents who are at low HP as long as Psychic Terrain's not up and the last slot is another crossroad. I could either go for Morning Sun to play the long-game just like Gastrodon or Protect to keep it safe from some fatal attacks. Protect always plays a big part in Double Battles so I want to make sure Arcanine is prepared for anything.
Since Arcanine's the most-recent last member I could think of, I believe there is still some work to be done. But I can say is it can have trouble going up against Dragapults, Coalossals, Hydreigons, Gastrodons, Rhyperiors, Dracovishs, Dracozolts and other physically-defensive Pokemon I haven't mentioned. So when it comes to using Arcanine, careful considerations must be made so that this team member can be the top dog in the team. Since it suffers recoil damage form Flare Blitz and Wild Charge, it can make it tired and become a sitting duck to others. When it comes to Pokemon battles, it doesn't like to play dead.
By looking by my team as a whole, I can say it could go all the way but I still feel it could need some improvements. I feel as though Arcanine may not be the best choice for this team but I needed another kind of Pokemon that can get through the likes of Corviknight and provide better synergy. So far, I don't know what other Pokemon would replace Arcanine but nevertheless, it's a team that has great potential.
If I were to think which Pokemon this team would have the most trouble with, I would say Chandelure and probably Galarian Darmanitan if I don't have Coalossal out and definitely Rain Dance teams if Gastrodon's not selected. Swords Dance and Will-O-Wisp Mimikyus could also be concerns as they can cause trouble by dealing great dents and disrupt my plays if I'm not careful.
And that's my VGC 2020 for my Pokemon Sword version. I hope you liked the strategies I've implemented into this. Are there any changes I need to make in order to improve this team to it's maximum efficiency. Please let me know if you have any suggestions. Your feedback will be greatly appreciated. Don't worry, I don't bite like I'm a Pokemon myself. Heh heh.
Hope you have a great day and enjoy what Pokemon battles are heading ya way! ;)
Pokepaste version: https://pokepast.es/46ff10353d82efed
I'm here once again with another team I thought up that has a chance to dominate in the VGC 2020 format. Since I have a VGC 2020 team on Pokemon Shield, I figured why not have one in Pokemon Sword as well? It can make your brain tick when you test each and every Pokemon team you can think of. The team I thought up is mostly built around Coalossal, a fiery behemoth who stops at nothing when the Steam Engine's up and running. After thinking what Pokemon are best suited for the job, here's the result I present to you. Here they are!
- THE TEAM -
Dragapult
Nature: Jolly
IVs: 31/31/31/0/31/31
EVs: 4 HP/252 Atk/252 Spe
Ability: Clear Body
Held Item: Life Orb/Focus Sash
Phantom Force
Dragon Darts
Surf
Dragon Dance
Dragapult proved to all us that it brings Dragonite to shame with its real immense Speed and does not falter when it comes to sonic booms! I mean hello, it's a stealth bomber Pokemon for crying out loud! Strong in both Single battles and Double battles, many few Pokemon would ever have a chance to outspeed it or not at all after a Dragon Dance. This Dragapult takes the role as a lead, physical sweeper with its limited choice of moves unfortunately. You may be asking why it knows Surf, correct? Well, read the paragraph down and I'll tell you why.
Phantom Force may take a turn to set up to deliver a strong hit, but it has great use when it comes to strategies. When it Dynamaxes, Max Phantasm lowers the opponent's guard, making Escavalier and Arcanine deal more damage. Power Herb could be an optional choice, but that involves a bit of rethinking. Dragon Darts was chosen for wide sweeps, increasing the chances of KO'ing weakened opponents and Dragon Dance is what makes it a powerhouse to begin with. Now Surf is an interesting choice after my experience in the previous competition I've joined. It may have petite power, but it has a big use not on my opponents but for Coalossal when paired up with it. On the first turn, the main thing to do is to set up Coalossal when it Gigantamaxes. Dragapult goes for the Surf, hits its partner, activating its dangerous Steam Engine ability which maximizes its Speed, then Weakness Policy comes into effect, sharply increasing its power. After the set up, Coalossal begins its demolition spree! It has 0 IVs in Special Attack because I want Coalossal to take as less damage as possible.
With its spectacular supersonic speed, it becomes EXTREMLY vulnerable to Trick Room Pokemon. Have you ever watched these moments on television where everything goes slow-mo for special effects? Well, it pretty much what would happen when Trick Room's up and the result wouldn't be favorable. It also has trouble against Fairy-types such as Sylveon, Togekiss and the worst out of them, Grimmsnarl with any set. I make it go for an emergency bailout if it faces any of these threats.
Coalossal
Nature: Modest
IVs: 31/0/31/31/31/31
EVs: 252 HP/4 Def/252 Sp. Atk
Ability: Steam Engine
Held Item: Weakness Policy
Heat Wave
Ancient Power
Solar Beam
Earth Power
Ah, Coalossal. The main star of the team and a good reason why. This Pokemon relies on all-out sweeps once its been set up thanks to Dragapult. With great type-variety and destructive power, it's gonna be real tough throwing this powerhouse off the rails. It'll be like that one scene form The Unstoppable when 777 smashed a truck to smithereens.
If by any chance Coalossal does not Gigantamax or returns to normal, Heat Wave is a handy move for hitting both opponents at once. Hitting both targets is the key to victory. Ancient Power unfortunately is its only special-attacking Rock move but it still comes in handy when it Gigantamaxes, especially when the secondary effect kicks in. Solar Beam for it to learn Max Overgrowth to counter what its weakness against such as opposing Gastrodon, Seismitoad and Quagsire and Earth Power to win against mirror-matches and more type coverage.
It's very strong ability comes with a cost, it has tons and TONS of type weaknesses but that's the purpose for Weakness Policy. But it also becomes susceptible to Fake Out users right on the first turn. Oh wait, Gigantamaxed Pokemon do not flinch. Hmm, if I know what Colossal will have trouble with...it's Rain Dance teams and Choice Scarf users such as Dracovish. The Fishous Rend doubles in power when the user moves after the opponent, which can OHKO Coalossal if my Gastrodon is not out on the field. Plus, Rain Dance can leave it rusting after a powerful Water-type move, even when it Gigantamaxes so if I ever see a team that would rely on Rain Dance, Gastrodon's the answer.
Escavalier
Nature: Brave
IVs: 31/31/31/x/31/0
EVs: 252 HP/84 Atk/44 Def/128 Sp. Def
Ability: Overcoat
Held Item: Occa Berry/Life Orb
Megahorn
Iron Head
Swords Dance/Knock Off
Substitute/Protect
I feel like this bug knight in shining armor definitely needs more attention due to how dangerous it is in Trick Room. Escavalier is what I thought would be awesome to counter other Trick Room teams and when paired with Dusclops. Not only is it strong, its bulky as well and it can successfully take on the likes of Hatterenes and Indeedees if I play my cards right. Back in the days of Pokemon Black 2, I've encountered a SubSword Escavalier so I thought the role would be effective in this meta game. So I chose a more defensive EV spread for this one to handle attacks more. Rhyperior did it so why can't Escavalier?
Both Megahorn and Iron Head are needed for this Pokemon to charge in and strike! No questions asked on those. The third option can be either Swords Dance for some extra oomph or Knock Off to get rid of Eviolites. Galarian Corsola is a concern that's been on my mind so I wondered if by getting rid of items, result would be in my favor. The fourth option is either Substitute to keep it safe from status-afflicting move or Protect for Speed priority. It all comes down to which moveset has the best synergy for this team.
Even though its a brave, insect warrior who fights for honor, a single, Fire-type attack turns it to a crisp. Not only that, it becomes very weak when burned as it cripples its Attack by half. Those two are the main drawbacks of this Pokemon. Basically, any Fire-type Pokemon or knows who know a Fire-type move wouldn't have any trouble going up against Escavalier. Sunny Day teams are its worst nightmare when the sun's out and the skies are clear, which is why I was in a bit of a pickle picking either Substitute or Protect as a fourth option. The Occa Berry can help it take just one Fire-type attack but even after that, it becomes more susceptible to being KO'd. Nevertheless, it's a great Pokemon if used correctly.
Dusclops
Nature: Relaxed
IVs: 31/0/31/x/31/0
EVs: 252 HP/96 Def/160 Sp.Def
Held Item: Eviolite
Night Shade
Will-o-Wisp
Trick Room
Imprison
This old-school Pokemon back in the Hoenn days is here again with its Eviolite bulk and Trick Room support. It provides great synergy with Gastrodon and Escavalier because let's face it, they're gonna need it when it comes to Speed advantages and disadvantages. This team member's role is to disrupt opposing plays whether they would be hyper physically offensive, relies on Trick Room or bringing fast opponents to a stand still. Dusclops is the mummy now!
It doesn't have to worry about how much Attack it has since Night Shade does a fixed amount of damage. The number 50 can be a big game-changer. Will-o-Wisp shuts down opposing physical sweepers such as Gyarados, Mimikyu and Tyranitar. It's own Trick Room can either bring support to Gastrodon and Escavalier or stop similar setups on the other side of the field. Lastly, Imprison. Imprison is to completely shut down Trick Room setters such as Hatterene and Clefable. Want to make YOUR slow Pokemon outspeed mine? Too bad!
As it is a bulky supporter, it becomes Trick and Taunt-bait against the likes of Grimmsnarl, Sableye and Whimsicott and weak to Knock Off users. In my opinion, the worst Pokemon it would face is Obstagoon. Obstagoon has a type advantage against Dusclops, learns Knock Off and if it has Guts, becomes stronger when burnt by the Will-o-Wisp. So I better watch out for it if I ever get to pick Dusclops.
Gastrodon
Nature: Quiet
IVs: 31/0/31/31/31/0
EVs: 168 HP/252 Sp.Atk/88 Sp.Def
Ability: Storm Drain
Held Item: Leftovers
Earth Power
Scald
Icy Wind
Recover
This Pokemon is the best answer for Rain Dance teams. The Storm Drain ability is SO good as it draws in Water-type moves and make them increases its Special Attack instead. A great partner for Coalossal and Dragapult when it comes to leading the team to victory. This Pokemon ain't no slug in the arena, it's a formidable Pokemon that goes all the way!
Earth Power and Scald are its main STAB moves which have good coverage combined. Any Fire-types such as Charizard, Centiskorch shall be washed up! Icy Wind is used to slow down opponents for its partner to gain the upper hand. A useful move to have in these circumstances. Lastly, we can't have a bulk sweeper with Recover now, can't it? It needs the move with the combination of Leftovers for it to play the long game and wear down enemies.
Since it's not holding a Rindo Berry, a Grass-type move marks doom for this Pokemon. Even Icy Wind cannot save it since it relies on Trick Room due to having no Speed IVs. It is also another team member that can be Trick and Taunt-bait due to the role it plays. If it's holding any kind of Choice item, its plays will be limited. A Trick or Taunt Grimmsnarl is the main threat to watch out for due to how it plays out.
Arcanine
Nature: Adamant
IVs: 31/31/31/x/31/31
EVs: 4 HP/252 Atk/252 Spe
Ability: Intimidate
Held Item: Muscle Band
Flare Blitz
Wild Charge
Extreme Speed
Morning Sun/Protect
For the last team member, I had to think carefully. I looked at my team and felt it's lacking in the physical-attacking department particularly weak to Corviknights when Coalossal's not around. So I wonder what other physical attacker would be good for this team and my answer...is Arcanine. This loyal companion provides Intimidate support while packing a heavy punch. I've found out that this Pokemon does work well with Coalossal so with its physical moveset along with Muscle Band, it can really heat up battles. Still need to wonder why it's called a "Legendary Pokemon" even though its not really classified as a legendary.
Flare Blitz is a must-have for this Pokemon. It hits hard against those who have a disadvantage against it. Wild Charge is need to take on the likes of Gyarados, Mantine, Pelipper and Barraskewda. Nothing like putting a shock to your opponents. Extreme Speed is to finish off opponents who are at low HP as long as Psychic Terrain's not up and the last slot is another crossroad. I could either go for Morning Sun to play the long-game just like Gastrodon or Protect to keep it safe from some fatal attacks. Protect always plays a big part in Double Battles so I want to make sure Arcanine is prepared for anything.
Since Arcanine's the most-recent last member I could think of, I believe there is still some work to be done. But I can say is it can have trouble going up against Dragapults, Coalossals, Hydreigons, Gastrodons, Rhyperiors, Dracovishs, Dracozolts and other physically-defensive Pokemon I haven't mentioned. So when it comes to using Arcanine, careful considerations must be made so that this team member can be the top dog in the team. Since it suffers recoil damage form Flare Blitz and Wild Charge, it can make it tired and become a sitting duck to others. When it comes to Pokemon battles, it doesn't like to play dead.
- TEAM OVERVIEW -
By looking by my team as a whole, I can say it could go all the way but I still feel it could need some improvements. I feel as though Arcanine may not be the best choice for this team but I needed another kind of Pokemon that can get through the likes of Corviknight and provide better synergy. So far, I don't know what other Pokemon would replace Arcanine but nevertheless, it's a team that has great potential.
If I were to think which Pokemon this team would have the most trouble with, I would say Chandelure and probably Galarian Darmanitan if I don't have Coalossal out and definitely Rain Dance teams if Gastrodon's not selected. Swords Dance and Will-O-Wisp Mimikyus could also be concerns as they can cause trouble by dealing great dents and disrupt my plays if I'm not careful.
- CONCLUSION -
And that's my VGC 2020 for my Pokemon Sword version. I hope you liked the strategies I've implemented into this. Are there any changes I need to make in order to improve this team to it's maximum efficiency. Please let me know if you have any suggestions. Your feedback will be greatly appreciated. Don't worry, I don't bite like I'm a Pokemon myself. Heh heh.
Hope you have a great day and enjoy what Pokemon battles are heading ya way! ;)
Pokepaste version: https://pokepast.es/46ff10353d82efed
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