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BH Groudon
- Thread starter SuperSkylake
- Start date
Also using Volk's method of putting [QC change] and [End QC change] at the start and end of my proposed changes to make it easier for your screen reader to read it.
Lots of stuff here so tag me after implemented so I can go over again.
[OVERVIEW]
Primal Groudon is a powerful bulky attacker in the metagame when equipped with Red Orb, which leaves it with only a Ground-type weakness and STAB V-Create that can tear through relatively bulky targets that take neutral damage, such as Mega Audino, Xerneas, and Mega Mewtwo Y, with ease [QC change] PDon actually deletes everything unless the mon resists and is very bulky, maybe change "tear through" to OHKO, also MMY doesn't have great physical bulk so at least replace with MMX [End QC change]. It is also offensively versatile, with a wide choice of viable moves such as Fleur Cannon and Bolt Strike that can lure otherwise reliable checks such as Giratina and Celesteela respectively. Its 180 attack and 150 special attack are excellent for mixed attacking sets as well, and Desolate Land allows it to viably use a wide array of Fire-type moves [QC change] It usually only uses V-create so I wouldn't say "wide array" of Fire moves [End QC change]. it has a high Defense stat which lets it avoid being OHKOed by powerful physical attackers such as Regigigas and Mega Mewtwo-X and strongly retaliate. [QC change] PDon's defensive utility is being undersold here, excellent typing and solid bulk with Desolate Land and strong damage output lets it check threats like Mega Diancie, Primal Kyogre, and Xerneas. Mention something along the lines of typing and ability. [End QC change] It is initially quite slow, so it struggles against Pokemon on offensive teams such as Mega Mewtwo-Y and Mega Gengar that outspeed it and threaten its weaker special bulk [QC change] Mega Gengar doesn't OHKO and "offensive teams" makes it sound like MMY and MGar aren't seen on Balance, which they are, rephrase and include something else like Kyurem-White over Mega Gengar [End QC change]. It is normally checked by some ubiquidous defensive Pokemon such as Zygarde-C and Giratina, but can bypass them with the appropriate moves on mixed sets [QC change] It isn't easy for PDon to properly lure and beat ZygTina especially when a lot of them are Pranksters, however they can be easily predicted and abused [End QC change]. Offensive Groudon sets must have reliable imposter-proofing support thanks to the sheer power behind their moves and inability to run viable Imposter lure sets. Otherwise Imposter can easily sweep through the rest of the user's team [QC change] Imposter being threatening to setup bulkier sweepers is a known fact, and most setup sweepers are very strong, is there something special about Offensive PDon sets? Otherwise delete [End QC change]. It is fairly one-dimensional, as its Item and Ability are restricted to the Red Orb and Desolate Land, though it still carries staggering power despite those limitations.
[SET] [QC change] Change the set to
name: Defensive
move 1: V-create
move 2: Shore Up
move 3: Stealth Rock / Bolt Strike
move 4: Anchor Shot / Will-o-Wisp
item: Red Orb
ability: Intimidate / Electric Surge / Download
and rearrange the move description section to match the order [End QC change]
name: Defensive Trapper
move 1: Anchor Shot
move 2: V-create
move 3: Bolt Strike
move 4: Shore Up
item: Red Orb
ability: Electric Surge
nature: Impish / Careful
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Anchor Shot traps some defensive switch-ins, such as Primordial Sea Celesteela, Mega Slowbro, and Ho-Oh, preventing them from escaping the follow-up move. It also threatens to trap Imposter users, preventing them from safely switching or staying in against Groudon. V-Create deals heavy damage to targets who take neutral damage such as Dialga, Mega Audino, and Xerneas, usually outright OHKOing them [QC change] Mention how it OHKOs offensive mons to check them well [End QC change]. Bolt Strike deals heavy damage to Mega Slowbro, Celesteela, Ho-Oh, and other Fire-immune Steel types. When boosted by Electric Terrain, Bolt Strike is a 2hKO against Mega Slowbro. Shore Up keeps Groudon's HP high, letting it continually check threatening Pokemon such as Regigigas and Mega Diancie for its team. It has double the PP of Morning Sun, making it preferable for longer games. Volt Switch lets Groudon retain momentum against standard defensive answers it cannot beat such as Giratina and Flash Fire Steel-types, to maintain offensive pressure [QC change] Delete, Volt Switch isn't common enough [End QC change]. [QC change] Add the descriptions for the other moves, mention other options that aren't on the movelist such as Fire Lash, Knock Off, and Ground STAB. [End QC change].
Set Details
========
Electric Surge is the pre-Primal ability of choice because it powers up Bolt Strike and Volt Switch, letting Groudon hit harder with those moves, and protects Groudon from being put to sleep. [QC change] Add ability descriptions to new abilities [End QC change]. Red Orb gives Groudon a far more useful defensive typing, higher physical bulk, and far more power behind its attacks. An Impish nature is preferred to bolster Groudon's Defense against boosted and super-effective hits such as Mega Diancie's Precipice Blades and Mega Mewtwo X's Low Kick [QC change] Low Kick isn't super effective and neither of these examples are boosted, rephrase [End QC change]. A Careful Nature allows it to handle mega Diancies Boomburst better, but results in Groudon having a chance to be 2HKOed by Precipice Blades on the switch.
Usage Tips
========
This Groudon set usually plays as a defensive pivot by forcing a switch that its teammates can then capitalize on. In the early game, Anchor Shot is a risk-free move to click, as the only common Pokemon that can safely avoid being trapped are Zygarde-C, Giratina, and Flash Fire Aegislash. Giratina is a fairly passive Pokemon and Aegislash cannot risk a possible Ground-Type attack. Most other switch-ins can easily be trapped and then removed next turn [QC change] Only with Bolt Strike, mention scouting for Bounce (Using Imposter or Will-o-Wisp) and then discuss how Rocks is a good move to click to punish good switch-ins that take V-create. [End QC change]. Be mindful of the low PP of V-Create and Bolt Strike, as after either are used up, Groudon becomes far easier to switch into for the opponent. Once you know Groudon's standard switchins, you can Volt Switch or double switch out to something that threatens the switch-in to keep unrelenting pressure [QC change] Remove Volt Switch Mention, change to setup rocks for free if possible [End QC change]. If you need Groudon to check threatening Pokemon such as Mega Diancie, Mega Mewtwo X [QC change] MMX is not checked by PDon [End QC change], Mega Beedrill, or Regigigas, play more carefully with it and ensure that its HP stays high enough to take them on.
Team Options
========
This set fits on many balance teams thanks to its ability to force predictable switches. Powerful special or mixed wallbreakers, such as Choice Specs Mega Diancie and Refrigerate Mega Mewtwo X can threaten Groudon's common checks such as Shedinja, Zygarde-C, Mega Garchomp, and Giratina, and appreciate Groudon trapping and KOing their standard defensive answers such as Soundproof Mega Slowbro and Celesteela. Setup Checks such as Unaware Yveltal, Prankster Haze Registeel, or Choice Scarf Imposter can give the team a safety net against unexpected setup, allowing Groudon to play more defensively against setup-heavy teams. Bulky Stealth Rock users such as Mega Audino and Giratina can help rack up residual damage as Groudon forces many switches and prevent Shedinja from switching in freely. RegenVest Pokemon, such as Dialga and Primal Kyogre, appreciate Groudon trapping Imposters, and in return help check special attackers. They can also pivot Groudon in safely with U-Turn. Poison Heal users such as Mega Tyranitar and Regigigas provide an additional layer of protection against status and can use Pokemon that Groudon has weakened to facilitate their setup.
[QC change] This section needs a pretty big revamp, the wallbreakers are good but mention specific wallbreakers that PDon can improof (like Mega Diancie and possibly Primal Kyogre/Ashninja), setup checks is important but use more relevant anti setup mons, you don't really need Rocks user since PDon has Rocks first slash, RegenVest help with special attacks but they aren't very good in the meta and Shell Imposter is a thing, PH users is ok but where is Xerneas (beats the Dragons, sets up spikes to chip them, likes Groudon weakening/checking its checks like Kyogre, Ho-Oh, Steels). Mention an Imposter-proof (Bouncer that takes V-creates). Mention Knock Off users to remove Shed Shell if PDon is Anchor. Mention something to punish FF users.[End QC change]
[SET] [QC change] I don't think this set is good at all in the meta, it's just inferior to the first set, loses to every ZygTina set, and is Imposter bait, delete [End QC change]
name: Tank
move 1: Shift Gear / Stealth Rock
move 2: V-Create / Sacred Fire
move 3: Morning Sun
move 4: Thousand Arrows / Precipice Blades
item: Red Orb
ability: Misty Surge / Grassy Surge / Download
nature: Adamant / Impish
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 Spd / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Shift gear boosts Groudon's speed, allowing it to outspeed all unboosted Pokemon including all Choice Scarf users with 120 Speed or less, while also boosting its offenses to a level where it can outspeed offensive Pokemon such as Mega Mewtwo-Y and Mega Gengar and OHKO bulkier foes without using V-Create. Stealth Rock punishes the many switchins Groudon forces and the threat of V-Create scares Magic Bounce Pokemon that do not resist fire, such as Mega Audino and Dialga. However, Giratina and Zygarde-C often run magic Bounce and can switch into this set easily, so Groudon will find it difficult to set up Stealth Rock against them. V-Create is a devastatingly strong Fire attack backed up by STAB and Desolate land, able to OHKO almost anything that takes Neutral damage from it. It is not 100% accurate and lowers Groudon's Speed and defenses, which can force Groudon to switch out, but the possible ohkos are worth it. Sacred Fire is an alternative to V-Create that does not force out Primal Groudon after a few uses. It is far less powerful, though it also can spread burns once Misty Surge is not up, which threatens Shedinja that would try to switch in. Morning sun heals two thirds of Groudon's HP and lets it stay in longer or consistently check Pokemon such as Mega Diancie. Thousand Arrows is a moderately strong STAB move, hitting Mega Diancie and many Flash Fire Steel-types for high damage. It can hit Pokemon with a Ground immunity, such as Flash Fire Celesteela. However, it limits Primal Groudon's Imposter-proofing options. Precipice Blades is another option that is considerably more powerful, guaranteeing the OHKO on full HP Registeel and having a chance to 2hKO Flash Fire Ferrothorn if Groudon runs an Adamant Nature. Its accuracy is shaky though, and it cannot hit Flying-types. Fire Lash is another option for Fire-type coverage on Misty Surge sets that has far more PP and can force switches, racking up entry hazard damage and softening up defensive answers throughout the game. It is extremely weak without hazard support, doing less damage over two turns than Sacred Fire to a target that does not switch out. It also makes Groudon far easier to switch into because of the absence of V-Create.
Set Details
========
An Adamant nature maximizes Primal Groudon's power, which lets it reach some damage benchmarks such as a guaranteed KO on Regigigas with V-Create at +0 and a guaranteed KO against Mega Diancie with +0 Thousand Arrows. You may also consider running an Impish nature instead, which gives Groudon a bit of extra physical bulk. This allows it to tank some physical hits better such as Regigigas's +1 Facade after Stealth Rock and Mega Diancie's Precipice Blades, which cannot 2HKO. Red Orb allows Groudon to primal revert, giving it a stat boost and the Desolate Land ability. It also has the side benefits of making Groudon immune to Trick and taking reduced damage from Knock Off. Misty Surge activates Misty Terrain when Groudon is first sent out, protecting it from status moves such as Spore and the Toxic poison from Poison Fang. It also halves the damage of Core Enforcer, which is often employed against it, and prevents Poison Heal users' Toxic Orbs from activating, forcing them out. If running Sacred Fire, Grassy Surge allows it to still spread burns and recover some hp for a few turns. On more offense-minded teams, Download is a possible option to give a +1 boost to an offensive stat, though if Groudon gets a special attack boost, Groudon cannot use it. A +1 V-Create is strong enough to have a chance to 2hKO Giratina with Stealth Rock damage, if they are not running Fur Coat or Prankster. Unfortunately most of Groudon's standard switch-ins run Spectral Thief or Haze, making Download boosts short-lived much of the time.
Usage Tips
========
This Groudon set can be played both defensively as a check to some dangerous attackers such as Mega Diancie, Pheromosa, and Kartana choice-locked into a move that is not Ground-type, and offensively as a bulky setup sweeper if one opts for Shift Gear. If running Stealth Rock, it is important to scout for Magic Bounce Pokemon such as Giratina before setting it up. It may be almost impossible to get Stealth Rock set up if the Magic Bounce Pokemon can counter your set, even with a Sacred Fire burn. Remember to keep Groudon healthy and status-free if you need it to check something, and do not rely on Groudon to check more than one threat to your team if possible. Morning Sun and V-Create have only 8 pp each, leaving Groudon vulnerable to PP stalling. If you can afford to play more offensively, send out Groudon against a Pokemon that it threatens out such as a Steel-type, so that it can get a free attack off or double switch into a wallbreaker that is effective against its check. For example, you might pivot into Groudon on the opponent's switch-in to Registeel, then hard switch to Mega Diancie predicting your opponent to switch to a bulky Dragon. Against defensive teams, wait to set up Shift Gear until checks are in KO range at +1, as most Defensive Pokemon run Spectral Thief or other setup control moves to frustrate Groudon's efforts. many offensive teams do not have a reliable switchin to Groudon's devastatingly powerful moves. Bringing Groudon in against a Pokemon it can OHKO will force the opponent to make a difficult decision on what to sacrifice. Wait to set up until you are reasonably sure that checks such as powerful Priority users and fast Scarfers are gone. scout for Ground-type coverage, which deals super-effective damage against Primal Groudon. Mega Garchomp, Mega Mewtwo-Y, and Kartana often carry it and can outspeed it if Groudon has no speed boosts. Special attackers are also dangerous and Groudon should avoid confronting them if possible.
Team Options
========
This set fits best on bulky offensive teams that want a check to some specific attackers like Mega Diancie and Pheromosa and a wallbreaker in a single teamslot, that also has potential to do some late-game sweeping with Shift Gear. Physically defensive Pokemon with a Fire Resistance such as Giratina, Zygarde-C, or mega Slowbro can imposterproof Groudon, set up entry hazards, and pivot Groudon in safely with a slow U-Turn. If running Stealth Rock, Magic Bounce is useful so that Stealth Rock stays off your side of the field. A less conventional option is Primordial Sea Celesteela, which completely walls Precipice Blades sets and forces the Imposter out with the thread of Scald, though an Imposter can set up Stealth Rock reliably as you switch into Celesteela if Groudon runs the move. Bulky Entry Hazard removers such as Assault Vest Dialga with Rapid Spin or Defog Mega Audino allow Groudon to tank the hits it is supposed to and preserve its recovery pp, as it is vulnerable to every Entry Hazard. Groudon is weak to special -ate users and Poison Heal users such as Regigigas and Xerneas, which can put it to sleep after Misty Surge has expired. A Flash Fire Steel-type such as Registeel, Ferrothorn, or Aegislash can switch into these threats and neutralize them. With Anchor Shot, Registeel and Ferrothorn can trap and PP stall Imposter users that switch into them, which aids Groudon by removing a very troublesome threat to it. Checks to Special Attackers such as bulky Assault Vest users, Sand Stream Rock-types, or Fur Coat Chansey are helpful because Groudon cannot survive strong Special Attacks. Sand Stream can also scare Shedinja from switching into Primal Groudon's attacks because a double switch could cause it to faint to Sand damage.
Offensive pokemon like the mega mewtwos or Mold Breaker Mega Gengar can Remove sturdy Shedinja and they can also help to break through physically bulky Pokemon. An -Ate user such as mega Diancie or kyurem-Black helps you break Giratina and Zygarde-c with Boomburst. It can also force out offensive Pokemon such as Mega Mewtwo X and Mega Sceptile by threatening a revenge KO from Extreme Speed, if the offensive Pokemon do not carry anti-priority abilities. In return, Groudon threatens Steel-types that would wall the -ate user. Groudon also can work as an Imposterproof to a Pixilate Mega Diancie set without Ground-type coverage. some physical wallbreakers such as Mega Beedrill and Pheromosa can lure and defeat physical walls that Primal Groudon finds troublesome, such as Giratina and Zygarde-c (with Ice Hammer), Shedinja (with Sunsteel Strike), and Mega Slowbro (with Bolt Strike). Primal Groudon can work as an able Imposterproof to these sets. Fast Pokemon such as Choice Band Pheramosa and Choice Scarf Adaptability Mega Gengar can also check Mega Mewtwo forms, Deoxys-Attack, and Mega Sceptile. All of these Pokemon can hit Groudon hard with Special attacks. [QC change] Delete up to here [End QC change]
[SET]
name: Shell Smash
move 1: Shell Smash
move 2: V-Create
move 3: Thousand Arrows / Precipice Blades / Bolt Strike [QC change] Remove Bolt Strike and Slash Power Trip (I think second slot is fine), Power Trip smacks Mega Slowbro, Giratina, FF Steels, etc. [End QC change]
move 4: Fleur Cannon / Ice Beam
item: Red Orb
ability: Download / Electric Surge
nature: Naughty
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Shell Smash sets Groudon up to sweep the opposing team and outspeed the entire unboosted metagame. +2 Precipice Blades is a guaranteed OHKO against Mega Mewtwo forms, sparing Groudon from having to use V-Create. +2 Fleur Cannon has a chance to OHKO non-Assault Vest Giratina after Stealth Rock, and guarantees the OHKO on any Zygarde-C set with Ice Beam [QC change] GP thing but second half of sentence isn't grammatically correct [End QC change]. V-Create deals enormous damage to targets neutral to it such as Mega Audino and Arceus, and at +2 can even land OHKOs on targets that resist it after minimal chip such as Primal Kyogre and Mega Gyarados [QC change] PDon doesn't need chip to OHKO them at +2 [End QC change]. However, The speed- and Defense-lowering effects leave Groudon slightly more vulnerable to revenge KOs from Choice Scarf and Priority users. Thousand Arrows allows Groudon to hit Flying-types with its STAB move and has respectable power at +2. Precipice Blades has a noticeably higher damage output against bulky neutral targets such as Flash Fire Ferrothorn, but cannot hit Flying-types, which may allow a daring opponent to more easily pivot with immunities. Its accuracy is also imperfect. Alternatively, Bolt Strike can be used to lure and OHKO Primal Kyogre, Ho-Oh, Mega Slowbro, and yveltal without lowering stats, but Groudon then loses a strong STAB move [QC change] Change to Power Trip [End QC change]. Fleur cannon is the best move to complement Fire-type coverage, severely damaging physically defensive Pokemon that can take Thousand Arrows and V-Create such as Giratina, Zygarde-C, and Mega Slowbro. Ice Beam is viable alongside Bolt Strike [QC change] Power Trip [End QC change], as it hits Dragon- and Ground-types supereffectively and gives Groudon pseudo bolt-beam coverage which hits almost all threats at least neutrally without dropping Special Attack, notably OHKOing Zygarde-C at +2 regardless of Zygarde's set. However, Groudon loses the ability to OHKO Fur Coat Giratina without significant chip damage at +2 [QC change] Huh, PDon never OHKOed FC Tina anyways and Fleur Cannon isn't affected by FC? and FC Tina isn't a viable option anyways [End QC change]. [QC change] Mention Core Enforcer as an option to beat Prankster Dragon [End QC change]. Bonemerang is another niche option that allows Groudon to break through Focus Sash and Substitute users, but it is only marginally more powerful than Thousand Arrows and has less accuracy. Moongeist Beam is an option to retain coverage against Giratina and hit Sturdy Shedinja, but the inability to KO common checks (especially Zygarde-C) is a very high opportunity cost [QC change] Moongeist is not viable [End QC change].
Set Details
========
It is best to use a Naughty nature so that Groudon's offenses are not degraded. Most priority moves are physical and Groudon can tank a few if it's healthy. Groudon is still able to outspeed Pokemon with a base speed of 140, such as Mega Mewtwo Y, after a speed drop from V-Create. Groudon is still able to survive Special priority moves. Red orb is mandatory to primal revert and increase Groudon's Attack, Defense, and subpar Special Attack. Download gives Groudon a boost to one of its offensive stats, in case the power from Shell Smash isn't enough. This is enough to OHKO all variants of Giratina after a Shell Smash at +3 Special Attack except Assault Vest ones with Fleur Cannon, which can still be KOed after Stealth Rock damage. +3 Attack allows Groudon to KO non Fur Coat Giratina with Precipice Blades. Electric Surge is the ability of choice when used alongside bolt strike to set up Electric Terrain which helps achieve KOs against Mega Slowbro, Flash Fire Steel-types, and ho-oh. It blocks sleep as well, giving Groudon more setup opportunities.
Usage Tips
========
This set operates mainly as a late-game sweeper, but against teams without reliable checks, it can be used as a wallbreaker or an emergency check to a physical attacker. It is a good idea to keep Groudon healthy enough to take priority moves Fake Out + Extreme Speed from Kyurem-B. Scout for Status moves such as Xerneas's Lovely Kiss or Dialga's Glare [QC change] Neither Lovely Kiss Xern nor Glare Dialga are sets, change to different status users that PDon normally beats [End QC change] so that Groudon does not recklessly switch into them and get crippled. Slow pivots are great scouts for such moves and can get Groudon in safely. Throughout the game, utilize entry hazard damage and make offensive double switches to chip down Groudon's checks, such as Giratina and Zygarde-C. Several other sorts of checks must be dealt with as well. Prankster users can remove Groudon's setup, Encore it, or force an unfavorable trade with Destiny Bond. Unaware users with spectral thief such as Zygarde-C can stop Groudon's sweep as well [QC change] Unaware isn't an ability in the current meta, also mention how PDon is naturally very strong with V-create having very limited checks so it can force tons of switches threatening OHKOs. [End QC change].
Once Groudon's checks have been dealt with, pivot Groudon in against something that it would force out, such as a Steel-type, to give a free setup turn. Be very wary of Imposter users, because they can easily countersweep, or at best force a two for one trade with your prankster Destiny Bond user. Try not to reveal Groudon's set to Imposter users before it is ready to set up, as your opponent will then be unsure of what they must preserve to check it. If you have a teammate to Imposter-proof the set, keep it alive to protect yourself from being counterswept by the Imposter. Be careful of faster attackers such as Priority and Choice Scarf users, which can accumulate significant chip damage on Groudon after its defenses have been lowered with Shell Smash and/or V-Create. Do not be afraid to switch Groudon out after it sets up and KOs something to save it for later, as its bulk, especially on the physical side, is surprisingly good and might allow it to set up again.
Team Options
========
This groudon set fits on heavy offensive teams as a late-game sweeper and cleaner [QC change] This set works on Balance too because PDon is naturally threatening unlike many other Smashers [End QC change], thus wallbreakers are the key to setting the stage for its sweep. Examples include mega Garchomp and Choice Band Mega Mewtwo X. These Pokemon can weaken Unaware users [QC change] Not viable, also mention in this sentence chipping Fat Dragons can drop the to Fleur/Beam range. [End QC change], force trades with Prankster users, defeat Sturdy Shedinja with Moongeist Beam or Photon Guiser, or chip down Imposter users that switch in to scout their sets. Imposter-proofing this set depends entirely on the coverage. Find a Pokemon that is not 2hKOed by any move on the set after a Shell Smash [QC change] Filler, remove [End QC change]. For example, Shedinja can imposter-proof variants without Moongeist Beam [QC change] Delete, MGB not a move [End QC change] and keep up pressure by U-Turning on the Imposter's forced switch, and Primordial Sea Celesteela can handle those without Thousand Arrows and bolt Strike [QC change] Change to "with Precipice Blades" [End QC change]. Hyper offensive teams may not want to lose momentum switching into an Imposterproof, so a Focus Sash user such as Magic Guard Mega Diancie can Spectral Thief the boosts from an Imposter who copies Groudon and continue sweeping with them [QC change] This seems very bad as you are implying throwing away PDon and your setup check for Imposter? [End QC change]. Offensive hazard setters like Stealth Rock Mega Diancie, Mold Breaker Spikes Mega Gengar, or Stealth Rock [QC change] Spikes is better on Kartana, also add Spikes Xern as thats really good with PDon [End QC change] kartana can get hazards up to weaken walls and break Focus Sashes. Kartana and Mold Breaker Gengar with Pursuit can threaten Shedinja, one of the most reliable checks to this set. Flash fire steel-types like Registeel can switch into -ate users, counter regigigas with Entrainment [QC change] Why is Regigigas threatening to this set? Is there something I'm missing here or delete [End QC change], and threaten to trap Imposters which switch in to them, all of who are otherwise threatening to Groudon. Another setup sweeper such as Shell Smash Mega Tyranitar, Shell Smash Mega Gengar, or Belly Drum Necrozma-DM can finish sweeping where Groudon left off if it is somehow KOed. Since many teams carry just a single Prankster user, trading with Groudon can allow the other sweeper to sweep unhindered. Mega Tyranitar and Necrozma-DM can also weaken walls like Giratina and Zygarde-C early game so Groudon can KO them later. Bulky hazard control such as Defog Giratina or Rapid Spin Assault Vest Dialga [QC change] RegenVest Dialga is bad, use a different example like -ate Spin [End QC change] are useful as partners to allow Groudon to survive priority moves. They can also pivot Groudon in with a slow U-Turn and absorb Status moves aimed at your offensive Pokemon. Giratina can also opt to run Z Parting Shot to give Groudon a second chance at sweeping. A way to offensively check Mega Mewtwo Y and Mega Gengar is useful [QC change] Why? Examples? [End QC change]. Dazzling + Shell Smash users such as Pheramosa or a Mega Mewtwo of your own do this well when equipped with a Focus Sash and can use the free turn from Groudon's KO to set up [QC change] Both of these examples are very bad and DQM Smash is really only viable on Mega Gar which you mentioned earlier, I would delete [End QC change]. [QC change] Mention Pursuit users that can chip/remove Giratina [End QC change]
Strategy Comments
Other Options
=============
Defensive sets can opt for Shore Up, which has double the PP of Morning Sun but heals for less per use [QC change] Reverse this since recovery rn is Shore Up, mention faster teams want Morning Sun [End QC change]. This can help prevent Groudon from being PP stalled. Another option for the defensive set is U-Turn with minimum speed IVs to take better advantage of forced switches, but Groudon would rather be supporting its team by directly attacking. [QC change] Add other possible moves to punish Dragon switch-ins such as Poison Fang and Toxic Spikes [End QC change] Primal Groudon can run a set consisting of Anchor Shot, Stealth Rock, V-Create and Shore Up to set Stealth Rock while trapping its own Imposter. The threat of V-Create keeps most Magic Bounce users from switching in, but Magic Bounce Zygarde-C and Giratina still shut down this set with no trouble [QC change] This is a slashed set on the first set and is solid so delete the previous two sentences [End QC change]. Groudon can forego Primal Reversion with a Leftovers Fur Coat set to become a physical wall with electric immunity that can trap its imposter with Thousand Waves. It does not have the 4x weakness to ice of Zygarde-C, but some common physical attackers like Adaptability Mega Mewtwo-X and any refrigerate user still beat it. Mega Swampert can take hits from Kyurem-B better due to its additional water typing, but has overall lower physical bulk. Mega Slowbro stands up far better to Mega Mewtwo X's Photon Guiser due to its secondary Psychic typing, but has additional weakness to Electric, Dark and Ghost that Groudon does not have [QC change] I'm not understanding how MegaBro compares with Regular Don as a Wall [End QC change].
Checks and Counters
===================
**Bulky Dragon-types**: Giratina and Zygarde-C wall the Shift Gear variants of Primal Groudon indefinitely due to their resistance to V-Create, but they must be afraid to switch in on a Shell Smash, especially with Entry Hazards. Assault Vest variants of both can take a Fleur Cannon or Ice Beam from full and Spectral Thief Groudon's boosts. Prankster variants can easily halt any attempted sweep. Giratina is also an unreliable counter to groudon because it may not survive +3 Precipice Blades. [QC change] Rephrase this section (Prank first, delete SG mentions, mention their high bulk since lower bulk resists like POgre and Ho-Oh get 2HKOed which is why they lose to PDon) [End QC change]
**Strong Special Attackers**: Mega Mewtwo Y outspeeds it and has a high chance to OHKO with Psycho Boost or Sheer Force-boosted Earth Power, but must be wary of V-Create. Normalize Mega Gengar threatens to render Groudon impotent with Entrainment. [QC change] Psycho Boost MMY is not a set, SF EP always OHKOs PDon, every mon in the meta is afraid of V-create unless they are ZygTina FC or Immune, mention Kyurem-W since that OHKOs PDon and outspeeds, move SF MMY mention to the Ground Coverage point. [End QC change]
**Imposter**: Shift Gear Groudon is unable to beat its Imposter one on one and must switch out. Shell Smash Groudon is even more vulnerable to Imposter, and finding something that can wall its most effective moveset is difficult. Imposter must, however, switch out after discovering Anchor Shot sets or be trapped and PP stalled. [QC change] Delete mentions of SG set, add Shed Shell Imposter mention as something that is very dangerous [End QC change]
**Ground-Types and coverage**: Defensive sets of Primal Groudon should be wary of Mega Garchomp. Mega Garchomp outspeeds Primal Groudon that has not set up and threatens defensive sets out with its Ground-type STAB. Its common movesets also prove troublesome to many common Teammates which Groudon works well alongside. Primal Groudon is 2hKOed by Mega Diancie's Precipice Blades, allowing it to easily PP stall Morning Sun [QC change] Mention that Mega Garchomp can take a V-create, the stalling out Morning Sun doesn't make sense because Morning Sun heals for a lot more than Blades deal so PDon can get to safety range and Blades misses sometimes so rephrase that, add SF MMY mention here. [End QC change]. Zygarde-C often runs Thousand Waves, which can trap and swiftly KO Groudon [QC change] Waves doesn't 2HKO so I wouldn't call it "swiftly KO", talk about how it can Z PDon or PP stall it and do whatever it wants [End QC change].
**Sturdy Shedinja**: Sturdy Shedinja walls most Primal Groudon sets unless they are lucky with Sacred Fire burns or carry the subpar Moongeist Beam. [QC change] There are 0 mentions of Sacred Fire and Moongeist Beam is terrible, mention how PDon can Wisp it or setup Hazards [End QC change]
**Other Prankster users**: Prankster users such as Registeel and Aegislash threaten to trade with Destiny Bond or Encore Groudon's setup move, which forces the Groudon user to switch out. However, they cannot safely switch in without risking a KO from V-Create. [QC change] I would never use Prank Steel to check PDon when V-create is so low risk to click [End QC change]
**Flash Fire Steel Types not weak to Ground**: Flash Fire Ferrothorn can be very annoying to defensive Groudon sets. Given a safe switch in, it can recover any damage done to it via Strength sap. However, it risks a 2hKO from Precipice Blades on the switch and loses to most Shell Smash variants. Primordial Sea Celesteela works similarly, but fears Thousand Arrows and Electric Surge-boosted Bolt Strike. [QC change] Most FF steels switch into the first set, Strength Sap Ferrothorn has never been a set so ?, mention how PDon can setup Hazards, single out Flash Fire/Primordial Sea Celesteela as it can wall non-Thousand Arrows PDon. [End QC change]
**Poison Heal users**: Poison Heal users that outspeed Groudon, such as Regigigas and Xerneas, threaten to put it to sleep once Misty or Electric Terrain is down. However, they are usually not bulky enough to survive V-Create and cannot reliably set up, but the free turns allow the Sleep user to switch other Pokemon in more safely. [QC change] Poison Heal doesn't really use sleep anymore and this is kinda contradicting what you said before regarding how PDon can check various PH users, Xerneas also really struggles vs PDon unless it has Substitute/Strength Sap. [End QC change]
credits
Written by: SuperSkylake (323219)
Quality checked by: [Electrolyte, 148072], [GL Volkner, 330455]
Primal Groudon is a powerful bulky attacker in the metagame when equipped with Red Orb, which leaves it with only a Ground-type weakness and STAB V-Create that can tear through relatively bulky targets that take neutral damage, such as Mega Audino, Xerneas, and Mega Mewtwo Y, with ease [QC change] PDon actually deletes everything unless the mon resists and is very bulky, maybe change "tear through" to OHKO, also MMY doesn't have great physical bulk so at least replace with MMX [End QC change]. It is also offensively versatile, with a wide choice of viable moves such as Fleur Cannon and Bolt Strike that can lure otherwise reliable checks such as Giratina and Celesteela respectively. Its 180 attack and 150 special attack are excellent for mixed attacking sets as well, and Desolate Land allows it to viably use a wide array of Fire-type moves [QC change] It usually only uses V-create so I wouldn't say "wide array" of Fire moves [End QC change]. it has a high Defense stat which lets it avoid being OHKOed by powerful physical attackers such as Regigigas and Mega Mewtwo-X and strongly retaliate. [QC change] PDon's defensive utility is being undersold here, excellent typing and solid bulk with Desolate Land and strong damage output lets it check threats like Mega Diancie, Primal Kyogre, and Xerneas. Mention something along the lines of typing and ability. [End QC change] It is initially quite slow, so it struggles against Pokemon on offensive teams such as Mega Mewtwo-Y and Mega Gengar that outspeed it and threaten its weaker special bulk [QC change] Mega Gengar doesn't OHKO and "offensive teams" makes it sound like MMY and MGar aren't seen on Balance, which they are, rephrase and include something else like Kyurem-White over Mega Gengar [End QC change]. It is normally checked by some ubiquidous defensive Pokemon such as Zygarde-C and Giratina, but can bypass them with the appropriate moves on mixed sets [QC change] It isn't easy for PDon to properly lure and beat ZygTina especially when a lot of them are Pranksters, however they can be easily predicted and abused [End QC change]. Offensive Groudon sets must have reliable imposter-proofing support thanks to the sheer power behind their moves and inability to run viable Imposter lure sets. Otherwise Imposter can easily sweep through the rest of the user's team [QC change] Imposter being threatening to setup bulkier sweepers is a known fact, and most setup sweepers are very strong, is there something special about Offensive PDon sets? Otherwise delete [End QC change]. It is fairly one-dimensional, as its Item and Ability are restricted to the Red Orb and Desolate Land, though it still carries staggering power despite those limitations.
[SET] [QC change] Change the set to
name: Defensive
move 1: V-create
move 2: Shore Up
move 3: Stealth Rock / Bolt Strike
move 4: Anchor Shot / Will-o-Wisp
item: Red Orb
ability: Intimidate / Electric Surge / Download
and rearrange the move description section to match the order [End QC change]
move 1: Anchor Shot
move 2: V-create
move 3: Bolt Strike
move 4: Shore Up
item: Red Orb
ability: Electric Surge
nature: Impish / Careful
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Anchor Shot traps some defensive switch-ins, such as Primordial Sea Celesteela, Mega Slowbro, and Ho-Oh, preventing them from escaping the follow-up move. It also threatens to trap Imposter users, preventing them from safely switching or staying in against Groudon. V-Create deals heavy damage to targets who take neutral damage such as Dialga, Mega Audino, and Xerneas, usually outright OHKOing them [QC change] Mention how it OHKOs offensive mons to check them well [End QC change]. Bolt Strike deals heavy damage to Mega Slowbro, Celesteela, Ho-Oh, and other Fire-immune Steel types. When boosted by Electric Terrain, Bolt Strike is a 2hKO against Mega Slowbro. Shore Up keeps Groudon's HP high, letting it continually check threatening Pokemon such as Regigigas and Mega Diancie for its team. It has double the PP of Morning Sun, making it preferable for longer games. Volt Switch lets Groudon retain momentum against standard defensive answers it cannot beat such as Giratina and Flash Fire Steel-types, to maintain offensive pressure [QC change] Delete, Volt Switch isn't common enough [End QC change]. [QC change] Add the descriptions for the other moves, mention other options that aren't on the movelist such as Fire Lash, Knock Off, and Ground STAB. [End QC change].
Set Details
========
Electric Surge is the pre-Primal ability of choice because it powers up Bolt Strike and Volt Switch, letting Groudon hit harder with those moves, and protects Groudon from being put to sleep. [QC change] Add ability descriptions to new abilities [End QC change]. Red Orb gives Groudon a far more useful defensive typing, higher physical bulk, and far more power behind its attacks. An Impish nature is preferred to bolster Groudon's Defense against boosted and super-effective hits such as Mega Diancie's Precipice Blades and Mega Mewtwo X's Low Kick [QC change] Low Kick isn't super effective and neither of these examples are boosted, rephrase [End QC change]. A Careful Nature allows it to handle mega Diancies Boomburst better, but results in Groudon having a chance to be 2HKOed by Precipice Blades on the switch.
Usage Tips
========
This Groudon set usually plays as a defensive pivot by forcing a switch that its teammates can then capitalize on. In the early game, Anchor Shot is a risk-free move to click, as the only common Pokemon that can safely avoid being trapped are Zygarde-C, Giratina, and Flash Fire Aegislash. Giratina is a fairly passive Pokemon and Aegislash cannot risk a possible Ground-Type attack. Most other switch-ins can easily be trapped and then removed next turn [QC change] Only with Bolt Strike, mention scouting for Bounce (Using Imposter or Will-o-Wisp) and then discuss how Rocks is a good move to click to punish good switch-ins that take V-create. [End QC change]. Be mindful of the low PP of V-Create and Bolt Strike, as after either are used up, Groudon becomes far easier to switch into for the opponent. Once you know Groudon's standard switchins, you can Volt Switch or double switch out to something that threatens the switch-in to keep unrelenting pressure [QC change] Remove Volt Switch Mention, change to setup rocks for free if possible [End QC change]. If you need Groudon to check threatening Pokemon such as Mega Diancie, Mega Mewtwo X [QC change] MMX is not checked by PDon [End QC change], Mega Beedrill, or Regigigas, play more carefully with it and ensure that its HP stays high enough to take them on.
Team Options
========
This set fits on many balance teams thanks to its ability to force predictable switches. Powerful special or mixed wallbreakers, such as Choice Specs Mega Diancie and Refrigerate Mega Mewtwo X can threaten Groudon's common checks such as Shedinja, Zygarde-C, Mega Garchomp, and Giratina, and appreciate Groudon trapping and KOing their standard defensive answers such as Soundproof Mega Slowbro and Celesteela. Setup Checks such as Unaware Yveltal, Prankster Haze Registeel, or Choice Scarf Imposter can give the team a safety net against unexpected setup, allowing Groudon to play more defensively against setup-heavy teams. Bulky Stealth Rock users such as Mega Audino and Giratina can help rack up residual damage as Groudon forces many switches and prevent Shedinja from switching in freely. RegenVest Pokemon, such as Dialga and Primal Kyogre, appreciate Groudon trapping Imposters, and in return help check special attackers. They can also pivot Groudon in safely with U-Turn. Poison Heal users such as Mega Tyranitar and Regigigas provide an additional layer of protection against status and can use Pokemon that Groudon has weakened to facilitate their setup.
[QC change] This section needs a pretty big revamp, the wallbreakers are good but mention specific wallbreakers that PDon can improof (like Mega Diancie and possibly Primal Kyogre/Ashninja), setup checks is important but use more relevant anti setup mons, you don't really need Rocks user since PDon has Rocks first slash, RegenVest help with special attacks but they aren't very good in the meta and Shell Imposter is a thing, PH users is ok but where is Xerneas (beats the Dragons, sets up spikes to chip them, likes Groudon weakening/checking its checks like Kyogre, Ho-Oh, Steels). Mention an Imposter-proof (Bouncer that takes V-creates). Mention Knock Off users to remove Shed Shell if PDon is Anchor. Mention something to punish FF users.[End QC change]
[SET] [QC change] I don't think this set is good at all in the meta, it's just inferior to the first set, loses to every ZygTina set, and is Imposter bait, delete [End QC change]
name: Tank
move 1: Shift Gear / Stealth Rock
move 2: V-Create / Sacred Fire
move 3: Morning Sun
move 4: Thousand Arrows / Precipice Blades
item: Red Orb
ability: Misty Surge / Grassy Surge / Download
nature: Adamant / Impish
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 Spd / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Shift gear boosts Groudon's speed, allowing it to outspeed all unboosted Pokemon including all Choice Scarf users with 120 Speed or less, while also boosting its offenses to a level where it can outspeed offensive Pokemon such as Mega Mewtwo-Y and Mega Gengar and OHKO bulkier foes without using V-Create. Stealth Rock punishes the many switchins Groudon forces and the threat of V-Create scares Magic Bounce Pokemon that do not resist fire, such as Mega Audino and Dialga. However, Giratina and Zygarde-C often run magic Bounce and can switch into this set easily, so Groudon will find it difficult to set up Stealth Rock against them. V-Create is a devastatingly strong Fire attack backed up by STAB and Desolate land, able to OHKO almost anything that takes Neutral damage from it. It is not 100% accurate and lowers Groudon's Speed and defenses, which can force Groudon to switch out, but the possible ohkos are worth it. Sacred Fire is an alternative to V-Create that does not force out Primal Groudon after a few uses. It is far less powerful, though it also can spread burns once Misty Surge is not up, which threatens Shedinja that would try to switch in. Morning sun heals two thirds of Groudon's HP and lets it stay in longer or consistently check Pokemon such as Mega Diancie. Thousand Arrows is a moderately strong STAB move, hitting Mega Diancie and many Flash Fire Steel-types for high damage. It can hit Pokemon with a Ground immunity, such as Flash Fire Celesteela. However, it limits Primal Groudon's Imposter-proofing options. Precipice Blades is another option that is considerably more powerful, guaranteeing the OHKO on full HP Registeel and having a chance to 2hKO Flash Fire Ferrothorn if Groudon runs an Adamant Nature. Its accuracy is shaky though, and it cannot hit Flying-types. Fire Lash is another option for Fire-type coverage on Misty Surge sets that has far more PP and can force switches, racking up entry hazard damage and softening up defensive answers throughout the game. It is extremely weak without hazard support, doing less damage over two turns than Sacred Fire to a target that does not switch out. It also makes Groudon far easier to switch into because of the absence of V-Create.
Set Details
========
An Adamant nature maximizes Primal Groudon's power, which lets it reach some damage benchmarks such as a guaranteed KO on Regigigas with V-Create at +0 and a guaranteed KO against Mega Diancie with +0 Thousand Arrows. You may also consider running an Impish nature instead, which gives Groudon a bit of extra physical bulk. This allows it to tank some physical hits better such as Regigigas's +1 Facade after Stealth Rock and Mega Diancie's Precipice Blades, which cannot 2HKO. Red Orb allows Groudon to primal revert, giving it a stat boost and the Desolate Land ability. It also has the side benefits of making Groudon immune to Trick and taking reduced damage from Knock Off. Misty Surge activates Misty Terrain when Groudon is first sent out, protecting it from status moves such as Spore and the Toxic poison from Poison Fang. It also halves the damage of Core Enforcer, which is often employed against it, and prevents Poison Heal users' Toxic Orbs from activating, forcing them out. If running Sacred Fire, Grassy Surge allows it to still spread burns and recover some hp for a few turns. On more offense-minded teams, Download is a possible option to give a +1 boost to an offensive stat, though if Groudon gets a special attack boost, Groudon cannot use it. A +1 V-Create is strong enough to have a chance to 2hKO Giratina with Stealth Rock damage, if they are not running Fur Coat or Prankster. Unfortunately most of Groudon's standard switch-ins run Spectral Thief or Haze, making Download boosts short-lived much of the time.
Usage Tips
========
This Groudon set can be played both defensively as a check to some dangerous attackers such as Mega Diancie, Pheromosa, and Kartana choice-locked into a move that is not Ground-type, and offensively as a bulky setup sweeper if one opts for Shift Gear. If running Stealth Rock, it is important to scout for Magic Bounce Pokemon such as Giratina before setting it up. It may be almost impossible to get Stealth Rock set up if the Magic Bounce Pokemon can counter your set, even with a Sacred Fire burn. Remember to keep Groudon healthy and status-free if you need it to check something, and do not rely on Groudon to check more than one threat to your team if possible. Morning Sun and V-Create have only 8 pp each, leaving Groudon vulnerable to PP stalling. If you can afford to play more offensively, send out Groudon against a Pokemon that it threatens out such as a Steel-type, so that it can get a free attack off or double switch into a wallbreaker that is effective against its check. For example, you might pivot into Groudon on the opponent's switch-in to Registeel, then hard switch to Mega Diancie predicting your opponent to switch to a bulky Dragon. Against defensive teams, wait to set up Shift Gear until checks are in KO range at +1, as most Defensive Pokemon run Spectral Thief or other setup control moves to frustrate Groudon's efforts. many offensive teams do not have a reliable switchin to Groudon's devastatingly powerful moves. Bringing Groudon in against a Pokemon it can OHKO will force the opponent to make a difficult decision on what to sacrifice. Wait to set up until you are reasonably sure that checks such as powerful Priority users and fast Scarfers are gone. scout for Ground-type coverage, which deals super-effective damage against Primal Groudon. Mega Garchomp, Mega Mewtwo-Y, and Kartana often carry it and can outspeed it if Groudon has no speed boosts. Special attackers are also dangerous and Groudon should avoid confronting them if possible.
Team Options
========
This set fits best on bulky offensive teams that want a check to some specific attackers like Mega Diancie and Pheromosa and a wallbreaker in a single teamslot, that also has potential to do some late-game sweeping with Shift Gear. Physically defensive Pokemon with a Fire Resistance such as Giratina, Zygarde-C, or mega Slowbro can imposterproof Groudon, set up entry hazards, and pivot Groudon in safely with a slow U-Turn. If running Stealth Rock, Magic Bounce is useful so that Stealth Rock stays off your side of the field. A less conventional option is Primordial Sea Celesteela, which completely walls Precipice Blades sets and forces the Imposter out with the thread of Scald, though an Imposter can set up Stealth Rock reliably as you switch into Celesteela if Groudon runs the move. Bulky Entry Hazard removers such as Assault Vest Dialga with Rapid Spin or Defog Mega Audino allow Groudon to tank the hits it is supposed to and preserve its recovery pp, as it is vulnerable to every Entry Hazard. Groudon is weak to special -ate users and Poison Heal users such as Regigigas and Xerneas, which can put it to sleep after Misty Surge has expired. A Flash Fire Steel-type such as Registeel, Ferrothorn, or Aegislash can switch into these threats and neutralize them. With Anchor Shot, Registeel and Ferrothorn can trap and PP stall Imposter users that switch into them, which aids Groudon by removing a very troublesome threat to it. Checks to Special Attackers such as bulky Assault Vest users, Sand Stream Rock-types, or Fur Coat Chansey are helpful because Groudon cannot survive strong Special Attacks. Sand Stream can also scare Shedinja from switching into Primal Groudon's attacks because a double switch could cause it to faint to Sand damage.
Offensive pokemon like the mega mewtwos or Mold Breaker Mega Gengar can Remove sturdy Shedinja and they can also help to break through physically bulky Pokemon. An -Ate user such as mega Diancie or kyurem-Black helps you break Giratina and Zygarde-c with Boomburst. It can also force out offensive Pokemon such as Mega Mewtwo X and Mega Sceptile by threatening a revenge KO from Extreme Speed, if the offensive Pokemon do not carry anti-priority abilities. In return, Groudon threatens Steel-types that would wall the -ate user. Groudon also can work as an Imposterproof to a Pixilate Mega Diancie set without Ground-type coverage. some physical wallbreakers such as Mega Beedrill and Pheromosa can lure and defeat physical walls that Primal Groudon finds troublesome, such as Giratina and Zygarde-c (with Ice Hammer), Shedinja (with Sunsteel Strike), and Mega Slowbro (with Bolt Strike). Primal Groudon can work as an able Imposterproof to these sets. Fast Pokemon such as Choice Band Pheramosa and Choice Scarf Adaptability Mega Gengar can also check Mega Mewtwo forms, Deoxys-Attack, and Mega Sceptile. All of these Pokemon can hit Groudon hard with Special attacks. [QC change] Delete up to here [End QC change]
[SET]
name: Shell Smash
move 1: Shell Smash
move 2: V-Create
move 3: Thousand Arrows / Precipice Blades / Bolt Strike [QC change] Remove Bolt Strike and Slash Power Trip (I think second slot is fine), Power Trip smacks Mega Slowbro, Giratina, FF Steels, etc. [End QC change]
move 4: Fleur Cannon / Ice Beam
item: Red Orb
ability: Download / Electric Surge
nature: Naughty
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Shell Smash sets Groudon up to sweep the opposing team and outspeed the entire unboosted metagame. +2 Precipice Blades is a guaranteed OHKO against Mega Mewtwo forms, sparing Groudon from having to use V-Create. +2 Fleur Cannon has a chance to OHKO non-Assault Vest Giratina after Stealth Rock, and guarantees the OHKO on any Zygarde-C set with Ice Beam [QC change] GP thing but second half of sentence isn't grammatically correct [End QC change]. V-Create deals enormous damage to targets neutral to it such as Mega Audino and Arceus, and at +2 can even land OHKOs on targets that resist it after minimal chip such as Primal Kyogre and Mega Gyarados [QC change] PDon doesn't need chip to OHKO them at +2 [End QC change]. However, The speed- and Defense-lowering effects leave Groudon slightly more vulnerable to revenge KOs from Choice Scarf and Priority users. Thousand Arrows allows Groudon to hit Flying-types with its STAB move and has respectable power at +2. Precipice Blades has a noticeably higher damage output against bulky neutral targets such as Flash Fire Ferrothorn, but cannot hit Flying-types, which may allow a daring opponent to more easily pivot with immunities. Its accuracy is also imperfect. Alternatively, Bolt Strike can be used to lure and OHKO Primal Kyogre, Ho-Oh, Mega Slowbro, and yveltal without lowering stats, but Groudon then loses a strong STAB move [QC change] Change to Power Trip [End QC change]. Fleur cannon is the best move to complement Fire-type coverage, severely damaging physically defensive Pokemon that can take Thousand Arrows and V-Create such as Giratina, Zygarde-C, and Mega Slowbro. Ice Beam is viable alongside Bolt Strike [QC change] Power Trip [End QC change], as it hits Dragon- and Ground-types supereffectively and gives Groudon pseudo bolt-beam coverage which hits almost all threats at least neutrally without dropping Special Attack, notably OHKOing Zygarde-C at +2 regardless of Zygarde's set. However, Groudon loses the ability to OHKO Fur Coat Giratina without significant chip damage at +2 [QC change] Huh, PDon never OHKOed FC Tina anyways and Fleur Cannon isn't affected by FC? and FC Tina isn't a viable option anyways [End QC change]. [QC change] Mention Core Enforcer as an option to beat Prankster Dragon [End QC change]. Bonemerang is another niche option that allows Groudon to break through Focus Sash and Substitute users, but it is only marginally more powerful than Thousand Arrows and has less accuracy. Moongeist Beam is an option to retain coverage against Giratina and hit Sturdy Shedinja, but the inability to KO common checks (especially Zygarde-C) is a very high opportunity cost [QC change] Moongeist is not viable [End QC change].
Set Details
========
It is best to use a Naughty nature so that Groudon's offenses are not degraded. Most priority moves are physical and Groudon can tank a few if it's healthy. Groudon is still able to outspeed Pokemon with a base speed of 140, such as Mega Mewtwo Y, after a speed drop from V-Create. Groudon is still able to survive Special priority moves. Red orb is mandatory to primal revert and increase Groudon's Attack, Defense, and subpar Special Attack. Download gives Groudon a boost to one of its offensive stats, in case the power from Shell Smash isn't enough. This is enough to OHKO all variants of Giratina after a Shell Smash at +3 Special Attack except Assault Vest ones with Fleur Cannon, which can still be KOed after Stealth Rock damage. +3 Attack allows Groudon to KO non Fur Coat Giratina with Precipice Blades. Electric Surge is the ability of choice when used alongside bolt strike to set up Electric Terrain which helps achieve KOs against Mega Slowbro, Flash Fire Steel-types, and ho-oh. It blocks sleep as well, giving Groudon more setup opportunities.
Usage Tips
========
This set operates mainly as a late-game sweeper, but against teams without reliable checks, it can be used as a wallbreaker or an emergency check to a physical attacker. It is a good idea to keep Groudon healthy enough to take priority moves Fake Out + Extreme Speed from Kyurem-B. Scout for Status moves such as Xerneas's Lovely Kiss or Dialga's Glare [QC change] Neither Lovely Kiss Xern nor Glare Dialga are sets, change to different status users that PDon normally beats [End QC change] so that Groudon does not recklessly switch into them and get crippled. Slow pivots are great scouts for such moves and can get Groudon in safely. Throughout the game, utilize entry hazard damage and make offensive double switches to chip down Groudon's checks, such as Giratina and Zygarde-C. Several other sorts of checks must be dealt with as well. Prankster users can remove Groudon's setup, Encore it, or force an unfavorable trade with Destiny Bond. Unaware users with spectral thief such as Zygarde-C can stop Groudon's sweep as well [QC change] Unaware isn't an ability in the current meta, also mention how PDon is naturally very strong with V-create having very limited checks so it can force tons of switches threatening OHKOs. [End QC change].
Once Groudon's checks have been dealt with, pivot Groudon in against something that it would force out, such as a Steel-type, to give a free setup turn. Be very wary of Imposter users, because they can easily countersweep, or at best force a two for one trade with your prankster Destiny Bond user. Try not to reveal Groudon's set to Imposter users before it is ready to set up, as your opponent will then be unsure of what they must preserve to check it. If you have a teammate to Imposter-proof the set, keep it alive to protect yourself from being counterswept by the Imposter. Be careful of faster attackers such as Priority and Choice Scarf users, which can accumulate significant chip damage on Groudon after its defenses have been lowered with Shell Smash and/or V-Create. Do not be afraid to switch Groudon out after it sets up and KOs something to save it for later, as its bulk, especially on the physical side, is surprisingly good and might allow it to set up again.
Team Options
========
This groudon set fits on heavy offensive teams as a late-game sweeper and cleaner [QC change] This set works on Balance too because PDon is naturally threatening unlike many other Smashers [End QC change], thus wallbreakers are the key to setting the stage for its sweep. Examples include mega Garchomp and Choice Band Mega Mewtwo X. These Pokemon can weaken Unaware users [QC change] Not viable, also mention in this sentence chipping Fat Dragons can drop the to Fleur/Beam range. [End QC change], force trades with Prankster users, defeat Sturdy Shedinja with Moongeist Beam or Photon Guiser, or chip down Imposter users that switch in to scout their sets. Imposter-proofing this set depends entirely on the coverage. Find a Pokemon that is not 2hKOed by any move on the set after a Shell Smash [QC change] Filler, remove [End QC change]. For example, Shedinja can imposter-proof variants without Moongeist Beam [QC change] Delete, MGB not a move [End QC change] and keep up pressure by U-Turning on the Imposter's forced switch, and Primordial Sea Celesteela can handle those without Thousand Arrows and bolt Strike [QC change] Change to "with Precipice Blades" [End QC change]. Hyper offensive teams may not want to lose momentum switching into an Imposterproof, so a Focus Sash user such as Magic Guard Mega Diancie can Spectral Thief the boosts from an Imposter who copies Groudon and continue sweeping with them [QC change] This seems very bad as you are implying throwing away PDon and your setup check for Imposter? [End QC change]. Offensive hazard setters like Stealth Rock Mega Diancie, Mold Breaker Spikes Mega Gengar, or Stealth Rock [QC change] Spikes is better on Kartana, also add Spikes Xern as thats really good with PDon [End QC change] kartana can get hazards up to weaken walls and break Focus Sashes. Kartana and Mold Breaker Gengar with Pursuit can threaten Shedinja, one of the most reliable checks to this set. Flash fire steel-types like Registeel can switch into -ate users, counter regigigas with Entrainment [QC change] Why is Regigigas threatening to this set? Is there something I'm missing here or delete [End QC change], and threaten to trap Imposters which switch in to them, all of who are otherwise threatening to Groudon. Another setup sweeper such as Shell Smash Mega Tyranitar, Shell Smash Mega Gengar, or Belly Drum Necrozma-DM can finish sweeping where Groudon left off if it is somehow KOed. Since many teams carry just a single Prankster user, trading with Groudon can allow the other sweeper to sweep unhindered. Mega Tyranitar and Necrozma-DM can also weaken walls like Giratina and Zygarde-C early game so Groudon can KO them later. Bulky hazard control such as Defog Giratina or Rapid Spin Assault Vest Dialga [QC change] RegenVest Dialga is bad, use a different example like -ate Spin [End QC change] are useful as partners to allow Groudon to survive priority moves. They can also pivot Groudon in with a slow U-Turn and absorb Status moves aimed at your offensive Pokemon. Giratina can also opt to run Z Parting Shot to give Groudon a second chance at sweeping. A way to offensively check Mega Mewtwo Y and Mega Gengar is useful [QC change] Why? Examples? [End QC change]. Dazzling + Shell Smash users such as Pheramosa or a Mega Mewtwo of your own do this well when equipped with a Focus Sash and can use the free turn from Groudon's KO to set up [QC change] Both of these examples are very bad and DQM Smash is really only viable on Mega Gar which you mentioned earlier, I would delete [End QC change]. [QC change] Mention Pursuit users that can chip/remove Giratina [End QC change]
Strategy Comments
Other Options
=============
Defensive sets can opt for Shore Up, which has double the PP of Morning Sun but heals for less per use [QC change] Reverse this since recovery rn is Shore Up, mention faster teams want Morning Sun [End QC change]. This can help prevent Groudon from being PP stalled. Another option for the defensive set is U-Turn with minimum speed IVs to take better advantage of forced switches, but Groudon would rather be supporting its team by directly attacking. [QC change] Add other possible moves to punish Dragon switch-ins such as Poison Fang and Toxic Spikes [End QC change] Primal Groudon can run a set consisting of Anchor Shot, Stealth Rock, V-Create and Shore Up to set Stealth Rock while trapping its own Imposter. The threat of V-Create keeps most Magic Bounce users from switching in, but Magic Bounce Zygarde-C and Giratina still shut down this set with no trouble [QC change] This is a slashed set on the first set and is solid so delete the previous two sentences [End QC change]. Groudon can forego Primal Reversion with a Leftovers Fur Coat set to become a physical wall with electric immunity that can trap its imposter with Thousand Waves. It does not have the 4x weakness to ice of Zygarde-C, but some common physical attackers like Adaptability Mega Mewtwo-X and any refrigerate user still beat it. Mega Swampert can take hits from Kyurem-B better due to its additional water typing, but has overall lower physical bulk. Mega Slowbro stands up far better to Mega Mewtwo X's Photon Guiser due to its secondary Psychic typing, but has additional weakness to Electric, Dark and Ghost that Groudon does not have [QC change] I'm not understanding how MegaBro compares with Regular Don as a Wall [End QC change].
Checks and Counters
===================
**Bulky Dragon-types**: Giratina and Zygarde-C wall the Shift Gear variants of Primal Groudon indefinitely due to their resistance to V-Create, but they must be afraid to switch in on a Shell Smash, especially with Entry Hazards. Assault Vest variants of both can take a Fleur Cannon or Ice Beam from full and Spectral Thief Groudon's boosts. Prankster variants can easily halt any attempted sweep. Giratina is also an unreliable counter to groudon because it may not survive +3 Precipice Blades. [QC change] Rephrase this section (Prank first, delete SG mentions, mention their high bulk since lower bulk resists like POgre and Ho-Oh get 2HKOed which is why they lose to PDon) [End QC change]
**Strong Special Attackers**: Mega Mewtwo Y outspeeds it and has a high chance to OHKO with Psycho Boost or Sheer Force-boosted Earth Power, but must be wary of V-Create. Normalize Mega Gengar threatens to render Groudon impotent with Entrainment. [QC change] Psycho Boost MMY is not a set, SF EP always OHKOs PDon, every mon in the meta is afraid of V-create unless they are ZygTina FC or Immune, mention Kyurem-W since that OHKOs PDon and outspeeds, move SF MMY mention to the Ground Coverage point. [End QC change]
**Imposter**: Shift Gear Groudon is unable to beat its Imposter one on one and must switch out. Shell Smash Groudon is even more vulnerable to Imposter, and finding something that can wall its most effective moveset is difficult. Imposter must, however, switch out after discovering Anchor Shot sets or be trapped and PP stalled. [QC change] Delete mentions of SG set, add Shed Shell Imposter mention as something that is very dangerous [End QC change]
**Ground-Types and coverage**: Defensive sets of Primal Groudon should be wary of Mega Garchomp. Mega Garchomp outspeeds Primal Groudon that has not set up and threatens defensive sets out with its Ground-type STAB. Its common movesets also prove troublesome to many common Teammates which Groudon works well alongside. Primal Groudon is 2hKOed by Mega Diancie's Precipice Blades, allowing it to easily PP stall Morning Sun [QC change] Mention that Mega Garchomp can take a V-create, the stalling out Morning Sun doesn't make sense because Morning Sun heals for a lot more than Blades deal so PDon can get to safety range and Blades misses sometimes so rephrase that, add SF MMY mention here. [End QC change]. Zygarde-C often runs Thousand Waves, which can trap and swiftly KO Groudon [QC change] Waves doesn't 2HKO so I wouldn't call it "swiftly KO", talk about how it can Z PDon or PP stall it and do whatever it wants [End QC change].
**Sturdy Shedinja**: Sturdy Shedinja walls most Primal Groudon sets unless they are lucky with Sacred Fire burns or carry the subpar Moongeist Beam. [QC change] There are 0 mentions of Sacred Fire and Moongeist Beam is terrible, mention how PDon can Wisp it or setup Hazards [End QC change]
**Other Prankster users**: Prankster users such as Registeel and Aegislash threaten to trade with Destiny Bond or Encore Groudon's setup move, which forces the Groudon user to switch out. However, they cannot safely switch in without risking a KO from V-Create. [QC change] I would never use Prank Steel to check PDon when V-create is so low risk to click [End QC change]
**Flash Fire Steel Types not weak to Ground**: Flash Fire Ferrothorn can be very annoying to defensive Groudon sets. Given a safe switch in, it can recover any damage done to it via Strength sap. However, it risks a 2hKO from Precipice Blades on the switch and loses to most Shell Smash variants. Primordial Sea Celesteela works similarly, but fears Thousand Arrows and Electric Surge-boosted Bolt Strike. [QC change] Most FF steels switch into the first set, Strength Sap Ferrothorn has never been a set so ?, mention how PDon can setup Hazards, single out Flash Fire/Primordial Sea Celesteela as it can wall non-Thousand Arrows PDon. [End QC change]
**Poison Heal users**: Poison Heal users that outspeed Groudon, such as Regigigas and Xerneas, threaten to put it to sleep once Misty or Electric Terrain is down. However, they are usually not bulky enough to survive V-Create and cannot reliably set up, but the free turns allow the Sleep user to switch other Pokemon in more safely. [QC change] Poison Heal doesn't really use sleep anymore and this is kinda contradicting what you said before regarding how PDon can check various PH users, Xerneas also really struggles vs PDon unless it has Substitute/Strength Sap. [End QC change]
credits
Written by: SuperSkylake (323219)
Quality checked by: [Electrolyte, 148072], [GL Volkner, 330455]
Lots of stuff here so tag me after implemented so I can go over again.
Chessking345 implemented
Same as before but for simplicity's sake I'm using [QC] for both before and after a QC change.
QC 3/3
[OVERVIEW]
Primal Groudon is a powerful bulky attacker in the metagame when equipped with Red Orb, which leaves it with only a Ground-type weakness and STAB V-Create that can OHKO even relatively bulky targets that take neutral damage, such as Mega Audino, Xerneas, and Mega Mewtwo X. It is also offensively versatile, with a wide choice of viable moves such as Fleur Cannon and Bolt Strike that can lure otherwise reliable checks such as Giratina and Celesteela respectively. Its 180 attack and 150 special attack are excellent for mixed attacking sets as well, and Desolate Land turns a 4x weakness to Water into an immunity, giving it more opportunities to switch in. It has a high Defense stat which lets it tank hits from powerful attackers, such as Primal Kyogre, Mega Diancie, and Regigigas, and ohko back [QC] Primal Kyogre and Mega Diancie are special attackers which don't target the 'Defense' stat, in this case its more of PDon's naturally good typing that allows it to check them [QC]. It is initially quite slow, so it struggles against faster Pokemon such as Mega Mewtwo-Y and Kyurem-White that can hit against its weaker special bulk. It is normally checked by some ubiquidous defensive Pokemon such as Zygarde-C and Giratina, but can bypass them with the appropriate moves on mixed sets, or force them to switch in, giving momentum to the Groudon user. Offensive Groudon sets must have reliable imposter-proofing support thanks to the sheer power behind their moves and inability to run viable Imposter lure sets. Otherwise Imposter can easily sweep through the rest of the user's team [QC] You didn't implement last time's check here? What makes offensive PDon special in requiring strong Improofs? Imposter threatens most setup sweepers so either point out why PDon is different or delete [QC]. It is fairly one-dimensional, as its Item and Ability are restricted to the Red Orb and Desolate Land, though it still carries staggering power despite those limitations.
[SET]
name: Defensive
move 1: V-create
move 2: Shore Up
move 3: Stealth Rock / Bolt Strike
move 4: Anchor Shot / Will-o-Wisp
item: Red Orb
ability: Electric Surge / Intimidate / Download [QC] Put Intimidate before Electric Surge, discussed with loser [QC]
nature: Impish / Careful
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
V-Create deals fatal damage to targets who do not resist it such as Dialga, Mega Audino, and Xerneas, letting Groudon check these threats. Shore Up keeps Groudon's HP high, letting it continually check threatening Pokemon such as Regigigas and Mega Diancie for its team. It has double the PP of Morning Sun, making it preferable for longer games. Bolt Strike deals heavy damage to Mega Slowbro, Celesteela, Ho-Oh, and other Fire-immune Steel types. When boosted by Electric Terrain, Bolt Strike is a 2hKO against Mega Slowbro. Stealth Rock is also viable, as Groudon forces many switches [QC] This allows PDon to punish Prank Tina and Zyg which should be mentioned as there isn't much PDon can do to them, also put this description before Bolt Strike's [QC]. Anchor Shot traps some defensive switch-ins, such as Primordial Sea Celesteela, Mega Slowbro, and Ho-Oh, preventing them from escaping the follow-up move. It also threatens to trap Imposter users who are not running Shed Shell, preventing them from safely switching or staying in against Groudon. Will-o-Wisp deals useful chip damage to common switch-ins such as Giratina, Zygarde-C, and Mega Slowbro; the chip damage also KOs Sturdy Shedinja. Thousand Arrows may be ran instead of Bolt Strike for another strong STAB move which can invalidate Ho-Oh and Celesteela. Groudon can set Other entry hazards, such as Spikes, if your team already has a Stealth Rock setter, but this mandates a Magic Bounce teammate to prevent Imposters from doing the same.
Set Details
========
Electric Surge is the pre-Primal ability of choice because it powers up Bolt Strike and protects Groudon from being put to sleep. Intimidate can soften a single physical blow the first time Groudon comes in, allowing it to be a better check against some physical attackers that might otherwise deal fatal damage to it, such as opposing Primal Groudon [QC] Put this ability desc first before Electric Surge [QC]. Download is useful if Groudon gets an Attack raise, but this boost is often removed or stolen by the Pokemon who come in to counter it via Haze or Spectral Thief. Red Orb gives Groudon a far more useful defensive typing, higher physical bulk, and far more power behind its attacks. An Impish nature is preferred to bolster Groudon's Defense against boosted and super-effective hits. Impish Groudon is guaranteed to survive Regigigas's +1 Facade after Stealth Rock and has a chance to avoid the 2hKO from Mega Diancie's Precipice Blades. A Careful Nature allows it to handle mega Diancies Boomburst better, but results in Groudon having a chance to be 2HKOed by Precipice Blades on the switch.
Usage Tips
========
This Groudon set usually plays as a defensive pivot by forcing a switch that its teammates can then capitalize on. In the early game, Anchor Shot is a risk-free move to click, as the only common Pokemon that can safely avoid being trapped are Zygarde-C, Giratina, Shed Shell Imposter, and Flash Fire Aegislash. Giratina is a fairly passive Pokemon and Aegislash cannot risk a possible Ground-Type attack, but Groudon should scout Imposter for a possible Shed Shell, which can cause the Imposter to deplete Groudon's PP if the Imposter successfully traps Groudon. Most other switch-ins can easily be trapped and then removed next turn with Bolt Strike, or have Stealth Rock set up on them as they pivot out. Most teams are forced to switch in the same Pokemon against Groudon as it comes in, making your opponent more predictable. You can use this tendency to dictate your opponent's play, maintain momentum, and wear his team down with hazard damage and double switches. Be mindful of the low PP of V-Create and Bolt Strike, as after either are used up, Groudon becomes far easier to switch into for the opponent. If you need Groudon to check threatening Pokemon such as Mega Diancie, Mega Beedrill, or Poison Heal users like Regigigas or Xerneas, play more carefully with it and ensure that its HP stays high enough to take them on. [QC] Where is scouting for bounce section with Imposter or Wisp [QC].
Team Options
========
This set fits on many balance teams thanks to its ability to force predictable switches. Powerful special or mixed wallbreakers, such as Choice Specs Mega Diancie, Ash Greninja, and Pixilate Mega Mewtwo X can threaten Groudon's common checks such as Shedinja, Zygarde-C, Flash Fire Steel-types, Mega Garchomp, and Giratina, and appreciate Groudon trapping and KOing their standard defensive answers such as Soundproof Mega Slowbro and Celesteela. Groudon can Imposter-proof Mega Diancie and Ash Greninja if they do not carry a Ground-type attack, and Pixilate Mega Mewtwo X as well. Setup Checks such as Unaware Yveltal [QC] Unaware Yveltal isn't really a set anymore so replace with Prank Dragon or even Triage Yveltal is better example as a relevant setup check [QC], Prankster Haze Registeel, or Choice Scarf Imposter can give the team a safety net against unexpected setup, allowing Groudon to play more defensively against setup-heavy teams. RegenVest Pokemon, such as Dialga and Primal Kyogre check special attackers and pivot Groudon in safely with U-Turn. Poison Heal users such as Xerneas, Mega Tyranitar, and Regigigas provide an additional layer of protection against status, can Knock Off items such as Shed Shell and Leftovers, and spread their own status to help Groudon, while Groudon can check powerful wallbreakers that might force them out. If Groudon is running Stealth Rock, a Magic Bounce teammate who resists V-Create such as Zygarde-C or Giratina can prevent Imposters from setting up Stealth Rock against your team.
[SET]
name: Shell Smash
move 1: Shell Smash
move 2: V-Create
move 3: Thousand Arrows / Power Trip / Precipice Blades
move 4: Fleur Cannon / Ice Beam
item: Red Orb
ability: Download / Electric Surge
nature: Naughty
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Shell Smash sets Groudon up to sweep the opposing team and outspeed the entire unboosted metagame. +2 Precipice Blades is a guaranteed OHKO against Mega Mewtwo forms, sparing Groudon from having to use V-Create. +2 Fleur Cannon has a chance to OHKO non-Assault Vest Giratina after Stealth Rock, and is a guaranteed OHKO on any Zygarde-C set with Ice Beam [QC] Still incorrect grammar (should be like "and +2 Ice Beam OHKOs Zyg-C" or smth but I'll leave this to GP [QC]. V-Create deals enormous damage to targets neutral to it such as Mega Audino and Arceus, and at +2 can even land OHKOs on targets that resist it such as Primal Kyogre and Mega Gyarados. However, The speed- and Defense-lowering effects leave Groudon slightly more vulnerable to revenge KOs from Choice Scarf and Priority users. Thousand Arrows allows Groudon to hit Flying-types with its STAB move and has respectable power at +2. Power Trip hits Mega Slowbro, Giratina, Ho-Oh, Flash Fire Celesteela, and Flash Fire Ferrothorn hard. Precipice Blades has a noticeably higher damage output against bulky neutral targets such as Flash Fire Ferrothorn, but cannot hit Flying-types, which may allow a daring opponent to more easily pivot with immunities. Its accuracy is also imperfect. Fleur cannon is the best move to complement Fire-type coverage, severely damaging physically defensive Pokemon that can take Thousand Arrows and V-Create such as Giratina, Zygarde-C, and Mega Slowbro. Ice Beam is viable alongside Power Trip, as it hits Dragon- and Ground-types supereffectively, notably OHKOing Zygarde-C at +2 regardless of Zygarde's set. However, Groudon loses the ability to OHKO Fur Coat Giratina without significant chip damage at +2 [QC] You missed the QC check from last time (PDon doesn't OHKO FC Tina anyways, Fleur isn't affected by FC, FC Tina is bad) [QC]. Core Enforcer can allow Primal Groudon to stay in against Prankster Dragon-types such as Zygarde-C, though it will take severe damage from Core Enforcer if it sets up a second time. Bonemerang is another niche option that allows Groudon to break through Focus Sash and Substitute users, but it is only marginally more powerful than Thousand Arrows and has less accuracy.
Set Details
========
It is best to use a Naughty nature so that Groudon's offenses are not degraded. Most priority moves are physical and Groudon can tank a few if it's healthy. Groudon is still able to outspeed Pokemon with a base speed of 140, such as Mega Mewtwo Y, after a speed drop from V-Create. Groudon is still able to survive Special priority moves. Red orb is mandatory to primal revert and increase Groudon's Attack, Defense, and subpar Special Attack. Download gives Groudon a boost to one of its offensive stats, in case the power from Shell Smash isn't enough. This is enough to OHKO all variants of Giratina after a Shell Smash at +3 Special Attack except Assault Vest ones with Fleur Cannon, which can still be KOed after Stealth Rock damage. +3 Attack allows Groudon to KO non Fur Coat Giratina with Precipice Blades [QC] Mention how Download further boosts Power Trip damage [QC]. Electric Surge is the ability of choice when used alongside bolt strike to set up Electric Terrain which helps achieve KOs against Mega Slowbro, Flash Fire Steel-types, and ho-oh. It blocks sleep as well, giving Groudon more setup opportunities.
Usage Tips
========
This set operates mainly as a late-game sweeper, but against teams without reliable checks, it can be used as a wallbreaker or an emergency check to a physical attacker. It is a good idea to keep Groudon healthy enough to take priority moves such as Fake Out + Extreme Speed from Kyurem-B. Scout for Status moves such as Mega Steelix's Glare or Assault Vest users' Poison Fang, so that Groudon does not recklessly switch into them and get crippled. Slow pivots are great scouts for such moves and can get Groudon in safely throughout the game, and Groudon's threatening presence and low list of switch-ins helps to maintain momentum. Utilize entry hazard damage and make offensive double switches to chip down Groudon's checks, such as Giratina and Zygarde-C. Several other sorts of checks must be dealt with as well. Prankster users can remove Groudon's setup, Encore it, or force an unfavorable trade with Destiny Bond. Focus Sash users with spectral thief such as Mega Mewtwo X can stop Groudon's sweep as well and must be chipped down before Groudon can sweep.
Once Groudon's checks have been dealt with, pivot Groudon in against something that it would force out, such as a Steel-type, to give a free setup turn. Be very wary of Imposter users, because they can easily countersweep, or at best force a two for one trade with your prankster Destiny Bond user. Try not to reveal Groudon's set to Imposter users before it is ready to set up, as your opponent will then be unsure of what they must preserve to check it. If you have a teammate to Imposter-proof the set, keep it alive to protect yourself from being counterswept by the Imposter. Be careful of faster attackers such as Priority and Choice Scarf users, which can accumulate significant chip damage on Groudon after its defenses have been lowered with Shell Smash and/or V-Create. Do not be afraid to switch Groudon out after it sets up and KOs something to save it for later, as its bulk, especially on the physical side, is surprisingly good and might allow it to set up again.
Team Options
========
This groudon set fits as a late-game sweeper and cleaner for both offensive and balance teams, as it can easily gain a free turn to set up. Wallbreakers are the key to setting the stage for its sweep. Examples include mega Garchomp and Choice Band Mega Mewtwo X. These Pokemon can chip Groudon's standard checks such as Giratina or Zygarde-C into Fleur Cannon or Ice Beam range, force trades with Prankster users, defeat Sturdy Shedinja with Moongeist Beam or Photon Guiser, or chip down Imposter users that switch in to scout their sets. Imposter-proofing this set depends entirely on the coverage. For example, Shedinja can imposter-proof all variants and keep up pressure by U-Turning on the Imposter's forced switch. Primordial Sea Celesteela can handle those with Precipice Blades. Hyper offensive teams may not want to lose momentum switching into an Imposterproof, so a Focus Sash user such as Magic Guard Mega Diancie can Spectral Thief the boosts from an Imposter who copies Groudon and continue sweeping with them. Offensive hazard setters like Stealth Rock Mega Diancie, Mold Breaker Spikes Mega Gengar, Spikes Kartana, or Spikes Xerneas can get hazards up to weaken walls and break Focus Sashes. Kartana and Mold Breaker Gengar with Pursuit can threaten Shedinja, one of the most reliable checks to this set. Flash fire steel-types like Registeel can switch into -ate users and threaten to trap Imposters which switch in to them, all of who are otherwise threatening to Groudon. Another setup sweeper such as Shell Smash Mega Tyranitar, Shell Smash Mega Gengar, or Belly Drum Necrozma-DM can finish sweeping where Groudon left off if it is somehow KOed. Since many teams carry just a single Prankster user, trading with Groudon can allow the other sweeper to sweep unhindered. Mega Tyranitar and Necrozma-DM can also weaken walls like Giratina and Zygarde-C early game so Groudon can KO them later. Bulky hazard control such as Defog Giratina or Pixilate Rapid Spin Mega Diancie are useful as partners to allow Groudon to survive priority moves. They can also pivot Groudon in with a slow U-Turn and absorb Status moves aimed at your offensive Pokemon. Giratina can also opt to run Z Parting Shot to give Groudon a second chance at sweeping. A way to offensively check Mega Mewtwo Y and Mega Gengar is useful, as they are difficult to switch into [QC] They outspeed unboosted PDon and can threaten PDon significantly [QC]. Choice Scarf Adaptability Mega Gengar or Tough Claws Mega Beedrill check these threats and can U-Turn on switches. Choice Band Adaptability Mega Tyranitar can pursuit trap Giratina, Mega Gengar, and Mega Mewtwo Y to help Groudon.
Strategy Comments
Other Options
=============
More offensive teams can opt for Morning Sun, which has half the PP of Shore Up but heals for more per use. Knock off or Poison Fang can be ran to cripple common switch-ins such as Giratina, Zygarde-C, and Mega Slowbro. A Shift Gear set with Thousand Arrows, V-Create, and a recovery move can sweep in the late game, but is forced out by too many threats such as Giratina, Zygarde-C, and Imposter to be reliable. Groudon can forego Primal Reversion with a Leftovers Fur Coat set to become a physical wall with electric immunity that can trap its imposter with Thousand Waves. It does not have the 4x weakness to ice of Zygarde-C, but some common physical attackers like Adaptability Mega Mewtwo-X and any refrigerate user still beat it. Mega Swampert can take hits from Kyurem-B better due to its additional water typing, but has overall lower physical bulk.
Checks and Counters
===================
**Bulky Dragon-types**: Prankster variants of Giratina and Zygarde-C have enough bulk to take V-Create and can Haze any Shell Smash or Download boosts Groudon has accumulated. Other variants are generally safe, but can lose to Shell Smash Groudon, especially with Entry Hazards up. Assault Vest variants of both Dragons can take a +2 Fleur Cannon or Ice Beam from full and Spectral Thief Groudon's boosts. Non-Prankster Giratina may not survive +3 Precipice Blades.
**Strong Special Attackers**: Strong Special attackers can check unboosted Primal Groudon after it gets a KO. Mega Mewtwo Y outspeeds it and OHKOs with Choice Specs Psycho Boost [QC] Discussed with SL on this and we don't believe Specs Psycho Boosted with Tinted or whatever ability is a viable enough set to be mentioned here (It is also only mentioned in Other Options on the MMY Analysis so yeah). Replace MMY here with Kyurem-White and move SF MMY to Ground Coverage [QC] or Sheer Force-boosted Earth Power. Normalize Mega Gengar threatens to render Groudon impotent with Entrainment. Primordial Sea Ash Greninja forces out Groudon with its Water-type STAB.
**Imposter**: Shell Smash Groudon is very vulnerable to Imposter, and finding something that can wall its most effective moveset is difficult. Imposter must, however, switch out after discovering Anchor Shot sets or be trapped and PP stalled, unless it runs Shed Shell, when it can easily PP stall Groudon or set up Stealth Rock.
**Ground-Types and coverage**: Defensive sets of Primal Groudon should be wary of Mega Garchomp. Mega Garchomp outspeeds Primal Groudon that has not set up and threatens defensive sets out with its Ground-type STAB. Its common movesets also prove troublesome to many common Teammates which Groudon works well alongside [QC] Missed this, mention Mega Chomp can live a V-create if needed [QC]. Primal Groudon is 2hKOed by Mega Diancie's Precipice Blades, allowing it to easily PP stall Morning Sun if Precipice Blades doesn't miss. Zygarde-C often runs Thousand Waves and can survive V-Create, letting it trap and KO Groudon. [QC] Add EP SF MMY here [QC]
**Sturdy Shedinja**: Sturdy Shedinja walls most of Primal Groudon's attacks, but Groudon can Will-o-Wisp them, and can often force Stealth Rock up against Shedinja's teammates, making it difficult to switch Shedinja in. Shell Smash sets are usually helpless against Sturdy Shedinja.
**Other Prankster users**: Prankster users such as Registeel and Aegislash can threaten to trade themselves for Groudon with Destiny Bond [QC] I would specify Offensive PDon as Defensive ones can just rock and wisp and basically these stuff cannot get a safe switch in as compared to on the Smash for offensive ones [QC].
**Flash Fire Steel Types**: Flash Fire Steel-Types such as Registeel and Ferrothorn can be very annoying to defensive Groudon sets. Given a safe switch in, they can recover any damage done to them and proceed to trap Primal Groudon. However, they risk losing to Precipice Blades and Shell Smash variants. Primordial Sea Celesteela works similarly, but fears Thousand Arrows and Electric Surge-boosted Bolt Strike.
credits
Written by: SuperSkylake (323219)
Quality checked by: [Electrolyte, 148072], [GL Volkner, 330455] [QC] Add [Chessking345, 355040] [QC]
Primal Groudon is a powerful bulky attacker in the metagame when equipped with Red Orb, which leaves it with only a Ground-type weakness and STAB V-Create that can OHKO even relatively bulky targets that take neutral damage, such as Mega Audino, Xerneas, and Mega Mewtwo X. It is also offensively versatile, with a wide choice of viable moves such as Fleur Cannon and Bolt Strike that can lure otherwise reliable checks such as Giratina and Celesteela respectively. Its 180 attack and 150 special attack are excellent for mixed attacking sets as well, and Desolate Land turns a 4x weakness to Water into an immunity, giving it more opportunities to switch in. It has a high Defense stat which lets it tank hits from powerful attackers, such as Primal Kyogre, Mega Diancie, and Regigigas, and ohko back [QC] Primal Kyogre and Mega Diancie are special attackers which don't target the 'Defense' stat, in this case its more of PDon's naturally good typing that allows it to check them [QC]. It is initially quite slow, so it struggles against faster Pokemon such as Mega Mewtwo-Y and Kyurem-White that can hit against its weaker special bulk. It is normally checked by some ubiquidous defensive Pokemon such as Zygarde-C and Giratina, but can bypass them with the appropriate moves on mixed sets, or force them to switch in, giving momentum to the Groudon user. Offensive Groudon sets must have reliable imposter-proofing support thanks to the sheer power behind their moves and inability to run viable Imposter lure sets. Otherwise Imposter can easily sweep through the rest of the user's team [QC] You didn't implement last time's check here? What makes offensive PDon special in requiring strong Improofs? Imposter threatens most setup sweepers so either point out why PDon is different or delete [QC]. It is fairly one-dimensional, as its Item and Ability are restricted to the Red Orb and Desolate Land, though it still carries staggering power despite those limitations.
[SET]
name: Defensive
move 1: V-create
move 2: Shore Up
move 3: Stealth Rock / Bolt Strike
move 4: Anchor Shot / Will-o-Wisp
item: Red Orb
ability: Electric Surge / Intimidate / Download [QC] Put Intimidate before Electric Surge, discussed with loser [QC]
nature: Impish / Careful
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
V-Create deals fatal damage to targets who do not resist it such as Dialga, Mega Audino, and Xerneas, letting Groudon check these threats. Shore Up keeps Groudon's HP high, letting it continually check threatening Pokemon such as Regigigas and Mega Diancie for its team. It has double the PP of Morning Sun, making it preferable for longer games. Bolt Strike deals heavy damage to Mega Slowbro, Celesteela, Ho-Oh, and other Fire-immune Steel types. When boosted by Electric Terrain, Bolt Strike is a 2hKO against Mega Slowbro. Stealth Rock is also viable, as Groudon forces many switches [QC] This allows PDon to punish Prank Tina and Zyg which should be mentioned as there isn't much PDon can do to them, also put this description before Bolt Strike's [QC]. Anchor Shot traps some defensive switch-ins, such as Primordial Sea Celesteela, Mega Slowbro, and Ho-Oh, preventing them from escaping the follow-up move. It also threatens to trap Imposter users who are not running Shed Shell, preventing them from safely switching or staying in against Groudon. Will-o-Wisp deals useful chip damage to common switch-ins such as Giratina, Zygarde-C, and Mega Slowbro; the chip damage also KOs Sturdy Shedinja. Thousand Arrows may be ran instead of Bolt Strike for another strong STAB move which can invalidate Ho-Oh and Celesteela. Groudon can set Other entry hazards, such as Spikes, if your team already has a Stealth Rock setter, but this mandates a Magic Bounce teammate to prevent Imposters from doing the same.
Set Details
========
Electric Surge is the pre-Primal ability of choice because it powers up Bolt Strike and protects Groudon from being put to sleep. Intimidate can soften a single physical blow the first time Groudon comes in, allowing it to be a better check against some physical attackers that might otherwise deal fatal damage to it, such as opposing Primal Groudon [QC] Put this ability desc first before Electric Surge [QC]. Download is useful if Groudon gets an Attack raise, but this boost is often removed or stolen by the Pokemon who come in to counter it via Haze or Spectral Thief. Red Orb gives Groudon a far more useful defensive typing, higher physical bulk, and far more power behind its attacks. An Impish nature is preferred to bolster Groudon's Defense against boosted and super-effective hits. Impish Groudon is guaranteed to survive Regigigas's +1 Facade after Stealth Rock and has a chance to avoid the 2hKO from Mega Diancie's Precipice Blades. A Careful Nature allows it to handle mega Diancies Boomburst better, but results in Groudon having a chance to be 2HKOed by Precipice Blades on the switch.
Usage Tips
========
This Groudon set usually plays as a defensive pivot by forcing a switch that its teammates can then capitalize on. In the early game, Anchor Shot is a risk-free move to click, as the only common Pokemon that can safely avoid being trapped are Zygarde-C, Giratina, Shed Shell Imposter, and Flash Fire Aegislash. Giratina is a fairly passive Pokemon and Aegislash cannot risk a possible Ground-Type attack, but Groudon should scout Imposter for a possible Shed Shell, which can cause the Imposter to deplete Groudon's PP if the Imposter successfully traps Groudon. Most other switch-ins can easily be trapped and then removed next turn with Bolt Strike, or have Stealth Rock set up on them as they pivot out. Most teams are forced to switch in the same Pokemon against Groudon as it comes in, making your opponent more predictable. You can use this tendency to dictate your opponent's play, maintain momentum, and wear his team down with hazard damage and double switches. Be mindful of the low PP of V-Create and Bolt Strike, as after either are used up, Groudon becomes far easier to switch into for the opponent. If you need Groudon to check threatening Pokemon such as Mega Diancie, Mega Beedrill, or Poison Heal users like Regigigas or Xerneas, play more carefully with it and ensure that its HP stays high enough to take them on. [QC] Where is scouting for bounce section with Imposter or Wisp [QC].
Team Options
========
This set fits on many balance teams thanks to its ability to force predictable switches. Powerful special or mixed wallbreakers, such as Choice Specs Mega Diancie, Ash Greninja, and Pixilate Mega Mewtwo X can threaten Groudon's common checks such as Shedinja, Zygarde-C, Flash Fire Steel-types, Mega Garchomp, and Giratina, and appreciate Groudon trapping and KOing their standard defensive answers such as Soundproof Mega Slowbro and Celesteela. Groudon can Imposter-proof Mega Diancie and Ash Greninja if they do not carry a Ground-type attack, and Pixilate Mega Mewtwo X as well. Setup Checks such as Unaware Yveltal [QC] Unaware Yveltal isn't really a set anymore so replace with Prank Dragon or even Triage Yveltal is better example as a relevant setup check [QC], Prankster Haze Registeel, or Choice Scarf Imposter can give the team a safety net against unexpected setup, allowing Groudon to play more defensively against setup-heavy teams. RegenVest Pokemon, such as Dialga and Primal Kyogre check special attackers and pivot Groudon in safely with U-Turn. Poison Heal users such as Xerneas, Mega Tyranitar, and Regigigas provide an additional layer of protection against status, can Knock Off items such as Shed Shell and Leftovers, and spread their own status to help Groudon, while Groudon can check powerful wallbreakers that might force them out. If Groudon is running Stealth Rock, a Magic Bounce teammate who resists V-Create such as Zygarde-C or Giratina can prevent Imposters from setting up Stealth Rock against your team.
[SET]
name: Shell Smash
move 1: Shell Smash
move 2: V-Create
move 3: Thousand Arrows / Power Trip / Precipice Blades
move 4: Fleur Cannon / Ice Beam
item: Red Orb
ability: Download / Electric Surge
nature: Naughty
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Shell Smash sets Groudon up to sweep the opposing team and outspeed the entire unboosted metagame. +2 Precipice Blades is a guaranteed OHKO against Mega Mewtwo forms, sparing Groudon from having to use V-Create. +2 Fleur Cannon has a chance to OHKO non-Assault Vest Giratina after Stealth Rock, and is a guaranteed OHKO on any Zygarde-C set with Ice Beam [QC] Still incorrect grammar (should be like "and +2 Ice Beam OHKOs Zyg-C" or smth but I'll leave this to GP [QC]. V-Create deals enormous damage to targets neutral to it such as Mega Audino and Arceus, and at +2 can even land OHKOs on targets that resist it such as Primal Kyogre and Mega Gyarados. However, The speed- and Defense-lowering effects leave Groudon slightly more vulnerable to revenge KOs from Choice Scarf and Priority users. Thousand Arrows allows Groudon to hit Flying-types with its STAB move and has respectable power at +2. Power Trip hits Mega Slowbro, Giratina, Ho-Oh, Flash Fire Celesteela, and Flash Fire Ferrothorn hard. Precipice Blades has a noticeably higher damage output against bulky neutral targets such as Flash Fire Ferrothorn, but cannot hit Flying-types, which may allow a daring opponent to more easily pivot with immunities. Its accuracy is also imperfect. Fleur cannon is the best move to complement Fire-type coverage, severely damaging physically defensive Pokemon that can take Thousand Arrows and V-Create such as Giratina, Zygarde-C, and Mega Slowbro. Ice Beam is viable alongside Power Trip, as it hits Dragon- and Ground-types supereffectively, notably OHKOing Zygarde-C at +2 regardless of Zygarde's set. However, Groudon loses the ability to OHKO Fur Coat Giratina without significant chip damage at +2 [QC] You missed the QC check from last time (PDon doesn't OHKO FC Tina anyways, Fleur isn't affected by FC, FC Tina is bad) [QC]. Core Enforcer can allow Primal Groudon to stay in against Prankster Dragon-types such as Zygarde-C, though it will take severe damage from Core Enforcer if it sets up a second time. Bonemerang is another niche option that allows Groudon to break through Focus Sash and Substitute users, but it is only marginally more powerful than Thousand Arrows and has less accuracy.
Set Details
========
It is best to use a Naughty nature so that Groudon's offenses are not degraded. Most priority moves are physical and Groudon can tank a few if it's healthy. Groudon is still able to outspeed Pokemon with a base speed of 140, such as Mega Mewtwo Y, after a speed drop from V-Create. Groudon is still able to survive Special priority moves. Red orb is mandatory to primal revert and increase Groudon's Attack, Defense, and subpar Special Attack. Download gives Groudon a boost to one of its offensive stats, in case the power from Shell Smash isn't enough. This is enough to OHKO all variants of Giratina after a Shell Smash at +3 Special Attack except Assault Vest ones with Fleur Cannon, which can still be KOed after Stealth Rock damage. +3 Attack allows Groudon to KO non Fur Coat Giratina with Precipice Blades [QC] Mention how Download further boosts Power Trip damage [QC]. Electric Surge is the ability of choice when used alongside bolt strike to set up Electric Terrain which helps achieve KOs against Mega Slowbro, Flash Fire Steel-types, and ho-oh. It blocks sleep as well, giving Groudon more setup opportunities.
Usage Tips
========
This set operates mainly as a late-game sweeper, but against teams without reliable checks, it can be used as a wallbreaker or an emergency check to a physical attacker. It is a good idea to keep Groudon healthy enough to take priority moves such as Fake Out + Extreme Speed from Kyurem-B. Scout for Status moves such as Mega Steelix's Glare or Assault Vest users' Poison Fang, so that Groudon does not recklessly switch into them and get crippled. Slow pivots are great scouts for such moves and can get Groudon in safely throughout the game, and Groudon's threatening presence and low list of switch-ins helps to maintain momentum. Utilize entry hazard damage and make offensive double switches to chip down Groudon's checks, such as Giratina and Zygarde-C. Several other sorts of checks must be dealt with as well. Prankster users can remove Groudon's setup, Encore it, or force an unfavorable trade with Destiny Bond. Focus Sash users with spectral thief such as Mega Mewtwo X can stop Groudon's sweep as well and must be chipped down before Groudon can sweep.
Once Groudon's checks have been dealt with, pivot Groudon in against something that it would force out, such as a Steel-type, to give a free setup turn. Be very wary of Imposter users, because they can easily countersweep, or at best force a two for one trade with your prankster Destiny Bond user. Try not to reveal Groudon's set to Imposter users before it is ready to set up, as your opponent will then be unsure of what they must preserve to check it. If you have a teammate to Imposter-proof the set, keep it alive to protect yourself from being counterswept by the Imposter. Be careful of faster attackers such as Priority and Choice Scarf users, which can accumulate significant chip damage on Groudon after its defenses have been lowered with Shell Smash and/or V-Create. Do not be afraid to switch Groudon out after it sets up and KOs something to save it for later, as its bulk, especially on the physical side, is surprisingly good and might allow it to set up again.
Team Options
========
This groudon set fits as a late-game sweeper and cleaner for both offensive and balance teams, as it can easily gain a free turn to set up. Wallbreakers are the key to setting the stage for its sweep. Examples include mega Garchomp and Choice Band Mega Mewtwo X. These Pokemon can chip Groudon's standard checks such as Giratina or Zygarde-C into Fleur Cannon or Ice Beam range, force trades with Prankster users, defeat Sturdy Shedinja with Moongeist Beam or Photon Guiser, or chip down Imposter users that switch in to scout their sets. Imposter-proofing this set depends entirely on the coverage. For example, Shedinja can imposter-proof all variants and keep up pressure by U-Turning on the Imposter's forced switch. Primordial Sea Celesteela can handle those with Precipice Blades. Hyper offensive teams may not want to lose momentum switching into an Imposterproof, so a Focus Sash user such as Magic Guard Mega Diancie can Spectral Thief the boosts from an Imposter who copies Groudon and continue sweeping with them. Offensive hazard setters like Stealth Rock Mega Diancie, Mold Breaker Spikes Mega Gengar, Spikes Kartana, or Spikes Xerneas can get hazards up to weaken walls and break Focus Sashes. Kartana and Mold Breaker Gengar with Pursuit can threaten Shedinja, one of the most reliable checks to this set. Flash fire steel-types like Registeel can switch into -ate users and threaten to trap Imposters which switch in to them, all of who are otherwise threatening to Groudon. Another setup sweeper such as Shell Smash Mega Tyranitar, Shell Smash Mega Gengar, or Belly Drum Necrozma-DM can finish sweeping where Groudon left off if it is somehow KOed. Since many teams carry just a single Prankster user, trading with Groudon can allow the other sweeper to sweep unhindered. Mega Tyranitar and Necrozma-DM can also weaken walls like Giratina and Zygarde-C early game so Groudon can KO them later. Bulky hazard control such as Defog Giratina or Pixilate Rapid Spin Mega Diancie are useful as partners to allow Groudon to survive priority moves. They can also pivot Groudon in with a slow U-Turn and absorb Status moves aimed at your offensive Pokemon. Giratina can also opt to run Z Parting Shot to give Groudon a second chance at sweeping. A way to offensively check Mega Mewtwo Y and Mega Gengar is useful, as they are difficult to switch into [QC] They outspeed unboosted PDon and can threaten PDon significantly [QC]. Choice Scarf Adaptability Mega Gengar or Tough Claws Mega Beedrill check these threats and can U-Turn on switches. Choice Band Adaptability Mega Tyranitar can pursuit trap Giratina, Mega Gengar, and Mega Mewtwo Y to help Groudon.
Strategy Comments
Other Options
=============
More offensive teams can opt for Morning Sun, which has half the PP of Shore Up but heals for more per use. Knock off or Poison Fang can be ran to cripple common switch-ins such as Giratina, Zygarde-C, and Mega Slowbro. A Shift Gear set with Thousand Arrows, V-Create, and a recovery move can sweep in the late game, but is forced out by too many threats such as Giratina, Zygarde-C, and Imposter to be reliable. Groudon can forego Primal Reversion with a Leftovers Fur Coat set to become a physical wall with electric immunity that can trap its imposter with Thousand Waves. It does not have the 4x weakness to ice of Zygarde-C, but some common physical attackers like Adaptability Mega Mewtwo-X and any refrigerate user still beat it. Mega Swampert can take hits from Kyurem-B better due to its additional water typing, but has overall lower physical bulk.
Checks and Counters
===================
**Bulky Dragon-types**: Prankster variants of Giratina and Zygarde-C have enough bulk to take V-Create and can Haze any Shell Smash or Download boosts Groudon has accumulated. Other variants are generally safe, but can lose to Shell Smash Groudon, especially with Entry Hazards up. Assault Vest variants of both Dragons can take a +2 Fleur Cannon or Ice Beam from full and Spectral Thief Groudon's boosts. Non-Prankster Giratina may not survive +3 Precipice Blades.
**Strong Special Attackers**: Strong Special attackers can check unboosted Primal Groudon after it gets a KO. Mega Mewtwo Y outspeeds it and OHKOs with Choice Specs Psycho Boost [QC] Discussed with SL on this and we don't believe Specs Psycho Boosted with Tinted or whatever ability is a viable enough set to be mentioned here (It is also only mentioned in Other Options on the MMY Analysis so yeah). Replace MMY here with Kyurem-White and move SF MMY to Ground Coverage [QC] or Sheer Force-boosted Earth Power. Normalize Mega Gengar threatens to render Groudon impotent with Entrainment. Primordial Sea Ash Greninja forces out Groudon with its Water-type STAB.
**Imposter**: Shell Smash Groudon is very vulnerable to Imposter, and finding something that can wall its most effective moveset is difficult. Imposter must, however, switch out after discovering Anchor Shot sets or be trapped and PP stalled, unless it runs Shed Shell, when it can easily PP stall Groudon or set up Stealth Rock.
**Ground-Types and coverage**: Defensive sets of Primal Groudon should be wary of Mega Garchomp. Mega Garchomp outspeeds Primal Groudon that has not set up and threatens defensive sets out with its Ground-type STAB. Its common movesets also prove troublesome to many common Teammates which Groudon works well alongside [QC] Missed this, mention Mega Chomp can live a V-create if needed [QC]. Primal Groudon is 2hKOed by Mega Diancie's Precipice Blades, allowing it to easily PP stall Morning Sun if Precipice Blades doesn't miss. Zygarde-C often runs Thousand Waves and can survive V-Create, letting it trap and KO Groudon. [QC] Add EP SF MMY here [QC]
**Sturdy Shedinja**: Sturdy Shedinja walls most of Primal Groudon's attacks, but Groudon can Will-o-Wisp them, and can often force Stealth Rock up against Shedinja's teammates, making it difficult to switch Shedinja in. Shell Smash sets are usually helpless against Sturdy Shedinja.
**Other Prankster users**: Prankster users such as Registeel and Aegislash can threaten to trade themselves for Groudon with Destiny Bond [QC] I would specify Offensive PDon as Defensive ones can just rock and wisp and basically these stuff cannot get a safe switch in as compared to on the Smash for offensive ones [QC].
**Flash Fire Steel Types**: Flash Fire Steel-Types such as Registeel and Ferrothorn can be very annoying to defensive Groudon sets. Given a safe switch in, they can recover any damage done to them and proceed to trap Primal Groudon. However, they risk losing to Precipice Blades and Shell Smash variants. Primordial Sea Celesteela works similarly, but fears Thousand Arrows and Electric Surge-boosted Bolt Strike.
credits
Written by: SuperSkylake (323219)
Quality checked by: [Electrolyte, 148072], [GL Volkner, 330455] [QC] Add [Chessking345, 355040] [QC]
Chessking345 implemented
bigtalk
Banned deucer.
AMGP check, implement what you want
addremove (comment)
(AC=add comma; RC=remove comma; AH=add hyphen; RH=remove hyphen)
add
(AC=add comma; RC=remove comma; AH=add hyphen; RH=remove hyphen)
[OVERVIEW]
(please use find and replace to change all of the "Groudon" mentions -> "Primal Groudon")
Primal Groudon is a powerful bulky attacker in the metagame when equipped with Red Orb, which leaves it with only a Ground-type weakness and a STAB V-create that can OHKO even relatively bulky targets that take neutral damage, such as Mega Audino, Xerneas, and Mega Mewtwo X. It is also offensively versatile, with a wide choice of viable coverage moves such as Fleur Cannon and Bolt Strike that can lure in and (weaken/KO) otherwise reliable checks such as Giratina and Celesteela, (AC) respectively. Its base 180 Attack and base 150 Special Attack are excellent for mixed attacking sets as well, and Desolate Land turns a 4x weakness to Water into an immunity, givingit Primal Groudon more opportunities to switch in. It has excellent statistical bulk and typing, (AC) which lets it tank hits from powerful attackers, such as Primal Kyogre, Mega Diancie, and Regigigas, and ohko OHKO them back. It is initially quite slow, so it struggles against faster Pokemon such as Mega Mewtwo (RH)Y and Kyurem-White that can hit against target its weaker special bulk. It is normally checked by some ubiquitous defensive Pokemon such as Zygarde-C and Giratina, but can bypass them with the appropriate coverage moves on mixed sets (RC) or force them to switch in (RC) giving and give momentum to the Groudon user. It is fairly one-dimensional, as its item and ability are restricted to the Red Orb and Desolate Land, though it still carries staggering power despite these limitations.
[SET]
name: Defensive
move 1: V-create
move 2: Shore Up
move 3: Stealth Rock / Bolt Strike
move 4: Anchor Shot / Will-O-Wisp
item: Red Orb
ability: Intimidate / Electric Surge / Download
nature: Impish / Careful
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
V-create deals fatal damage to targetswho that do not resist it such as Dialga, Mega Audino, and Xerneas, letting Groudon check these threats. Shore Up keeps Groudon's HP high, letting it continually check threatening Pokemon such as Regigigas and Mega Diancie for its team. It has double the PP of Morning Sun, making it preferable for longer games. Stealth Rock is also viable, as Groudon forces many switches, and the move lets it take advantage of gives it something to do while (before i read the last two words, the current phrasing sounds like "pdon takes advantage of tina/zyg" which gives off the wrong impression) Prankster Dragon-types such as Giratina and Zygarde-C switching in. Bolt Strike deals heavy damage to Mega Slowbro, Celesteela, Ho-Oh, and other Fire-immune Steel-(AH)types like Celesteela. When boosted by Electric Terrain, Bolt Strike is a 2HKO against Mega Slowbro. Anchor Shot traps some defensive switch-ins, such as Primordial Sea Celesteela, Mega Slowbro, and Ho-Oh, preventing them from escaping the follow-up move. It also threatens to trap Imposter users who that are not running Shed Shell, preventing them from safely switching or staying in against Groudon. Will-O-Wisp deals useful chip damage to common switch-ins such as Giratina, Zygarde-C, and Mega Slowbro; the chip damage also KOes Sturdy Shedinja. Thousand Arrows may be ran run instead of Bolt Strike for as another strong STAB move which that can invalidate Ho-Oh and Celesteela as checks. Groudon can set other entry hazards (RC) such as Spikes (RC) if your team already has a Stealth Rock setter, but this mandates a Magic Bounce teammate to prevent Imposters from doing the same.
Set Details
========
Intimidate can softena single (it does not soften a single attack) physical blows the first time when Groudon comes in, allowing it to be a better check against to some physical attackers that might otherwise deal fatal damage to it, such as opposing Primal Groudon. Electric Surge powers up Bolt Strike and protects prevents Groudon from being put to sleep. (fix spacing)Download is useful if Groudon gets an Attack raise, but this boost is often removed or stolen by the Pokemon who come in to counter it its counters via Haze or Spectral Thief. Red Orb gives Groudon a far more useful defensive typing, higher physical bulk, and far more greater (repetition) power behind its attacks. An Impish nature is preferred to bolster Groudon's Defense against so it can better take boosted and super (RH)effective hits. Impish Groudon is guaranteed to survive Regigigas's +1 Facade after Stealth Rock damage and has a chance to avoid the 2HKO from Mega Diancie's Precipice Blades. A Careful nature allows it Primal Groudon to handle Mega Diancie'(apostrophe)s Boomburst better, but results in Groudon having a chance to be 2HKOed by Precipice Blades on the switch. (pick one; does it have a chance to be 2hkoed with impish and have a greater chance to be 2hkoed with careful, or it is never 2hkoed with impish and have a chance to be 2hkoed with careful?)
Usage Tips
========
This Groudon set usually plays as a defensive pivot by forcinga switches that its teammates can then capitalize on. In the early-(AH)game, Anchor Shot is a risk-free move to click, as the only common Pokemon that can safely avoid being trapped are Zygarde-C, Giratina, Shed Shell Imposter users, and Flash Fire Aegislash. Giratina is a fairly passive Pokemon and Aegislash cannot risk taking a possible Ground-type attack, but Groudon should scout Imposter users for a possible Shed Shell, which can cause the Imposter them to deplete Groudon's PP if the Imposter they successfully traps Groudon. Most other switch-ins can easily be trapped and then removed next turn with Bolt Strike, or have Stealth Rock set up on them as they pivot out. If running Stealth Rock, it is important to scout for Magic Bounce Pokemon by using Will-O-Wisp if you have the move Primal Groudon has it (RC) or by analyzing how your opponent responds to Groudon. Most teams are forced to switch in the same Pokemon against into Groudon as it comes in, making your opponent more predictable. You can use this tendency to dictate your opponent's plays, maintain momentum, and wear his their team down with entry hazard damage and double switches. Be mindful of the low PP of V-create and Bolt Strike, as after either are move is used up, Groudon becomes far easier to switch into for the opponent. If you need Groudon to check threatening Pokemon such as Mega Diancie, Mega Beedrill, or a Poison Heal users like Regigigas or Xerneas, play more carefully with it and ensure that its HP stays high enough to take them on.
Team Options
========
This set fits on many balance teams thanks to its ability to force predictable switches. Powerful special or mixed wallbreakers, such as Choice Specs Mega Diancie, Ash-(AH)Greninja, and Pixilate Mega Mewtwo X can threaten Groudon's common checks such as Shedinja, Zygarde-C, Flash Fire Steel-types, Mega Garchomp, and Giratina, and they appreciate Groudon trapping and KOing their standard defensive answers such as Soundproof Mega Slowbro and Celesteela. Groudon can Imposter-proof Mega Diancie and Ash-(AH)Greninja if they do not carry a Ground-type attack,and as well as Pixilate Mega Mewtwo X as well. Setup checks such as Prankster Zygarde-C, Prankster Haze Registeel, or and Choice Scarf Imposter can give the team a safety net against unexpected setup, allowing Groudon to play more defensively against setup-heavy teams. RegenVest Pokemon (RC) such as Dialga and Primal Kyogre check special attackers and pivot Groudon in safely with U-turn. Poison Heal users such as Xerneas, Mega Tyranitar, and Regigigas provide an additional layer of protection against status, can Knock Off remove items such as Shed Shell and Leftovers with Knock Off, and spread their own status to help Groudon, while Groudon can check powerful wallbreakers that might force them out. If Groudon is running Stealth Rock, a Magic Bounce teammate who that resists V-create such as Zygarde-C or Giratina can prevent Imposters from setting up Stealth Rock against your team.
[SET]
name: Shell Smash
move 1: Shell Smash
move 2: V-create
move 3: Thousand Arrows / Power Trip / Precipice Blades
move 4: Fleur Cannon / Ice Beam
item: Red Orb
ability: Download / Electric Surge (why's this slashed when bolt strike isn't?)
nature: Naughty
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Shell Smash sets Groudon up to sweep the opposing team and outspeed the entire unboosted metagame. +2 Precipice Blades is a guaranteed OHKO against both Mega Mewtwo formes, sparing Groudon from having to use V-create on them.+2 Fleur Cannon has a chance to OHKO non-Assault Vest Giratina after Stealth Rock and +2 Ice Beam OHKOs all Zygarde-C sets. (repeated info later on) V-create deals enormous damage to targets neutral to it such as Mega Audino and Arceus, and, (AC) at +2, (AC) can even land OHKOs on targets that resist it such as Primal Kyogre and Mega Gyarados. However, the Speed- and Defense-lowering effects leave Groudon slightly more vulnerable to revenge KOs from Choice Scarf and priority users. Thousand Arrows allows Groudon to hit Flying-types with its STAB move and has respectable power at +2. Power Trip hits Mega Slowbro, Giratina, Ho-Oh, Flash Fire Celesteela, and Flash Fire Ferrothorn hard. Precipice Blades has a noticeably higher damage output against bulky neutral targets such as Flash Fire Ferrothorn, but cannot hit Flying-types, which may allow a daring opponent to more easily pivot around Primal Groudon with immunities. Its The move's accuracy is also imperfect. Fleur Cannon is the best move to complement Fire-type coverage, severely damaging physically defensive Pokemon that can take Thousand Arrows and V-create such as Giratina, Zygarde-C, and Mega Slowbro. +2 Fleur Cannon has a chance to OHKO non-Assault Vest Giratina after Stealth Rock damage. (moved) Ice Beam is viable alongside Power Trip, as it hits Dragon- and Ground-types super(add space)effectively, notably OHKOing Zygarde-C at +2 regardless of Zygarde's Zygarde-C's set. However, Groudon loses the ability to OHKO Giratina. Core Enforcer can allow Primal Groudon to stay in against Prankster Dragon-types such as Zygarde-C, though it Primal Groudon will take severe damage from Core Enforcer if it sets up a second time. Bonemerang is another niche option that allows Groudon to break through Focus Sash and Substitute users, but it is only marginally more powerful than Thousand Arrows and has less accuracy.
Set Details
========
It is best to use a Naughty nature so that Groudon's offenses are not degraded. Most priority moves are physical and Groudon can tank a few of them if it's healthy. Groudon is still able to outspeed base 140 Speed Pokemonwith a base speed of 140, such as Mega Mewtwo Y, after Shell Smash followed by a Speed drop from V-create. Even with a Naughty nature, Groudon is still able to survive special priority moves from full HP. Red Orb is mandatory to primal revert and for Primal Reversion, which increases Groudon's Attack, Defense, and subpar Special Attack. Download gives Groudon a boost to one of its offensive stats (RC) in case the power from Shell Smash isn't enough. This +3 Special Attack is enough to OHKO all variants of Giratina after a Shell Smash (redundant) at +3 Special Attack with Fleur Cannon except Assault Vest ones with Fleur Cannon, which can still be KOed after Stealth Rock damage. +3 Attack allows Groudon to KO non-(AH)Fur Coat Giratina with Precipice Blades. Electric Surge is the ability of choice when used alongside Bolt Strike to set up Electric Terrain, (AC) which helps achieve KOs against Mega Slowbro, Flash Fire Steel-types, and Ho-Oh. (again, bolt strike isn't slashed; did you forget to remove this?) It blocks sleep as well, giving Groudon more setup opportunities.
Usage Tips
========
This set operates mainly as a late-game sweeper, but against teams without reliable checks to it, it can be used as a wallbreaker or an emergency check to a physical attacker. It is a good idea to keep Groudon healthy enough to take priority moves such as Fake Out + Extreme Speed from Kyurem-B. Scout for status moves such as Mega Steelix's Glare or Assault Vest users' Poison Fang, so that Groudon does not recklessly switch into them and get crippled. Slow pivots are greatscouts for for scouting such moves and can get Groudon in safely throughout the game, and Groudon's threatening presence and low list of switch-ins helps to maintain momentum. Utilize entry hazard damage and make offensive double switches to chip wear down Groudon's checks, such as Giratina and Zygarde-C. Several other sorts of checks must be dealt with as well. Prankster users can remove Groudon's setup boosts, use Encore on it, or force an unfavorable trade with Destiny Bond. Focus Sash users with Spectral Thief such as Mega Mewtwo X can stop Groudon's sweep as well and must be chipped worn down before Groudon can sweep.
Once Groudon's checks have been dealt with, pivot Groudon in against something that itwould forces out, such as a Steel-type, to give for a free setup turn. Be very wary of Imposter users, because they can easily countersweep (RC) or, (AC) at best, (AC) force a two-(AH)for-(AH)one trade with your Prankster Destiny Bond user. Try not to reveal Groudon's set to Imposter users before it is ready to set up, as your opponent will then be unsure of what they must preserve to check it. If you have a teammate to Imposter-proof the set, keep it alive to protect yourself from being counterswept by the Imposters. Be careful of faster attackers such as priority and Choice Scarf users, which can accumulate significant chip damage on Groudon after its defenses have been lowered with Shell Smash and/or or V-create. Do not be afraid to switch Groudon out after it sets up and KOes something to save it for later, as its bulk, especially on the physical side, is surprisingly good and might allow it to set up again.
Team Options
========
This Groudon set fits as a late-game sweeper and cleaner for both offensive and balance teams, as it can easily gain a free turn to set up. Wallbreakers arethe key to setting the stage for its sweep. Examples include Mega Garchomp and Choice Band Mega Mewtwo X. These Pokemon can chip Groudon's standard checks such as Giratina or Zygarde-C into KO range of Fleur Cannon or Ice Beam range, force trades with Prankster users, defeat Sturdy Shedinja with Moongeist Beam or Photon Guiser Geyser, or chip and wear down Imposter users that switch in to scout their sets. Imposter-proofing this set depends entirely on the coverage. For example, Shedinja can Imposter-proof all variants and keep up pressure by U-Turning using U-turn on the Imposter's forced switch. Primordial Sea Celesteela can handle those variants with Precipice Blades. Hyper offensive teams may not want to lose momentum switching into an Imposter-(AH)proofer, so a Focus Sash user such as Magic Guard Mega Diancie can use Spectral Thief to steal the boosts from an Imposter who that copies Groudon and continue sweeping with them. Offensive entry hazard setters like Stealth Rock Mega Diancie, Mold Breaker Spikes Mega Gengar, Spikes Kartana, or and Spikes Xerneas can get hazards up to (redundant) weaken walls and break Focus Sashes. Kartana and Mold Breaker Gengar with Pursuit can threaten Shedinja, one of the most reliable checks to this set. Flash Fire Steel-types like Registeel can switch into -ate users and threaten to trap Imposters which that switch in to them, all both of who which are otherwise threatening to Groudon. Another setup sweeper such as Shell Smash Mega Tyranitar, Shell Smash Mega Gengar, or Belly Drum Necrozma-DM can finish sweeping wherever Groudon left leaves off if it is somehow KOed. Since many teams carry just a single Prankster user, trading with Groudon for it can allow the other sweeper to sweep unhindered. Mega Tyranitar and Necrozma-DM can also weaken walls like Giratina and Zygarde-C early-(AH)game so Groudon can KO them later. Bulky entry hazard control Pokemon such as Defog Giratina or and Pixilate Rapid Spin Mega Diancie are useful as partners to allow Groudon to survive priority moves. They can also pivot Groudon in with a slow U-turn and absorb status moves aimed at your offensive Pokemon. Giratina can also opt to run Z-(AH)Parting Shot to give Groudon a second chance at sweeping. A way to offensively check Mega Mewtwo Y and Mega Gengar is useful, as they heavily damage and outspeed Groudon before it sets up. Choice Scarf Adaptability Mega Gengar or and Tough Claws Mega Beedrill check these threats and can use U-turn on (forced?) switches. Choice Band Adaptability Mega Tyranitar can Pursuit trap Giratina, Mega Gengar, and Mega Mewtwo Y to help Groudon.
Strategy Comments
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
More offensive teams can opt for Morning Sun, which has half the PP of Shore Up but healsfor more HP per use. Knock Off or Poison Fang can be ran run to cripple common switch-ins such as Giratina, Zygarde-C, and Mega Slowbro. A Shift Gear set with Thousand Arrows, V-create, and a recovery move can sweep in the late-(AH)game, but is forced out by too many threats such as Giratina, Zygarde-C, and Imposter to be reliable. Groudon can forego Primal Reversion with a Leftovers + Fur Coat set to become a physical wall with an Electric immunity that can trap its Imposter with Thousand Waves. It does not have the 4x Ice weakness to ice of Zygarde-C, but some common physical attackers like Adaptability Mega Mewtwo (RH)X and any Refrigerate users still beat it. Mega Swampert can take hits from Kyurem-B better due to its additional Water typing, but has overall lower overall physical bulk.
Checks and Counters
===================
**Bulky Dragon-types**: Prankster variants of Giratina and Zygarde-C have enough bulk to take V-create and can use Haze to remove any Shell Smash or Download boosts Groudon has accumulated. Other variants are generally safe switch-ins, but can lose to Shell Smash Groudon, especially with entry hazards up. Assault Vest variants of bothDragons Dragon-types can take a +2 Fleur Cannon or Ice Beam from full HP and use Spectral Thief to steal Groudon's boosts. Non-Prankster Giratina may not survive +3 Precipice Blades, (AC) however.
**Strong Special Attackers**: Several faster special attackers can check unboosted Primal Groudon after it gets a KO. Kyurem-White ohkos OHKOes Primal Groudon with Refrigerate Boomburst, regardless of whether or not it the former runs a boosting item. Normalize Mega Gengar threatens to render Groudon impotent with Entrainment. Primordial Sea Ash-(AH)Greninja forces out Groudon with its Water-type STAB moves.
**Imposter**: Shell Smash Groudon is very vulnerable to Imposter, and findingsomething a Pokemon that can wall its most effective moveset is difficult. Imposter must, however, switch out after discovering Anchor Shot sets or be trapped and PP stalled, unless it runs Shed Shell, when in which case it can easily PP stall Groudon or set up Stealth Rock.
**Ground-types and Ground-type Coverage**: Defensive sets of Primal Groudon should be wary of Mega Garchomp. Mega Garchomp outspeeds Primal Groudon that has not set up and threatens defensive sets out with its Ground-type STAB moves. Its common movesets also prove troublesome to many common teammateswhich that Groudon works well alongside, and it can even live a single V-create. Primal Groudon is 2HKOed by Mega Diancie's Precipice Blades (you mentioned earlier that running impish would let you avoid this), allowing it Mega Diancie to easily PP stall Morning Sun if Precipice Blades doesn't miss. Zygarde-C often runs Thousand Waves and can survive V-create, letting it trap and KO Groudon. Sheer Force Mega Mewtwo Y OHKOes Groudon with Earth Power.
**Sturdy Shedinja**: Sturdy Shedinja walls most of Primal Groudon's attacks, but Groudon can use Will-O-Wisp on it, and can often force Stealth Rock up against Shedinja's teammates, making it difficult to switch Shedinja in. Shell Smash sets are usually helpless against Sturdy Shedinja.
**Other Prankster Users**: Prankster users such as Registeel and Aegislash can threaten to trade themselves for Shell Smash Groudon with Destiny Bond, but defensive sets can just use these passive walls as opportunities to set up Stealth Rock or use Will-O-Wisp.
**Flash Fire Fire-immune (celesteela isn't flash fire) Steel-(AH)types**: Flash Fire Steel-types such as Registeel and Ferrothorn can be very annoying to defensive Groudon sets. Given a safe switch in, they can recover any damage done to them and proceed to trap Primal Groudon. However, they risk losing to Precipice Blades and Shell Smash variants. Primordial Sea Celesteela works similarly, but fears Thousand Arrows and Electric Surge-boosted Bolt Strike.
credits
Written by: SuperSkylake (323219)
Quality checked by: [Electrolyte, 148072], [GL Volkner, 330455], [Chessking345, 355040]
[CREDITS]
- Written by: [SuperSkylake, 323219]
- Quality checked by: [[Electrolyte, 148072], [GL Volkner, 330455], [Chessking345, 355040]]
- Grammar checked by: [[username1, userid1], [username2, userid2]]
(please use find and replace to change all of the "Groudon" mentions -> "Primal Groudon")
Primal Groudon is a powerful bulky attacker in the metagame when equipped with Red Orb, which leaves it with only a Ground-type weakness and a STAB V-create that can OHKO even relatively bulky targets that take neutral damage, such as Mega Audino, Xerneas, and Mega Mewtwo X. It is also offensively versatile, with a wide choice of viable coverage moves such as Fleur Cannon and Bolt Strike that can lure in and (weaken/KO) otherwise reliable checks such as Giratina and Celesteela, (AC) respectively. Its base 180 Attack and base 150 Special Attack are excellent for mixed attacking sets as well, and Desolate Land turns a 4x weakness to Water into an immunity, giving
[SET]
name: Defensive
move 1: V-create
move 2: Shore Up
move 3: Stealth Rock / Bolt Strike
move 4: Anchor Shot / Will-O-Wisp
item: Red Orb
ability: Intimidate / Electric Surge / Download
nature: Impish / Careful
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
V-create deals fatal damage to targets
Set Details
========
Intimidate can soften
Usage Tips
========
This Groudon set usually plays as a defensive pivot by forcing
Team Options
========
This set fits on many balance teams thanks to its ability to force predictable switches. Powerful special or mixed wallbreakers, such as Choice Specs Mega Diancie, Ash-(AH)Greninja, and Pixilate Mega Mewtwo X can threaten Groudon's common checks such as Shedinja, Zygarde-C, Flash Fire Steel-types, Mega Garchomp, and Giratina, and they appreciate Groudon trapping and KOing their standard defensive answers such as Soundproof Mega Slowbro and Celesteela. Groudon can Imposter-proof Mega Diancie and Ash-(AH)Greninja if they do not carry a Ground-type attack,
[SET]
name: Shell Smash
move 1: Shell Smash
move 2: V-create
move 3: Thousand Arrows / Power Trip / Precipice Blades
move 4: Fleur Cannon / Ice Beam
item: Red Orb
ability: Download / Electric Surge (why's this slashed when bolt strike isn't?)
nature: Naughty
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Shell Smash sets Groudon up to sweep the opposing team and outspeed the entire unboosted metagame. +2 Precipice Blades is a guaranteed OHKO against both Mega Mewtwo formes, sparing Groudon from having to use V-create on them.
Set Details
========
It is best to use a Naughty nature so that Groudon's offenses are not degraded. Most priority moves are physical and Groudon can tank a few of them if it's healthy. Groudon is still able to outspeed base 140 Speed Pokemon
Usage Tips
========
This set operates mainly as a late-game sweeper, but against teams without reliable checks to it, it can be used as a wallbreaker or an emergency check to a physical attacker. It is a good idea to keep Groudon healthy enough to take priority moves such as Fake Out + Extreme Speed from Kyurem-B. Scout for status moves such as Mega Steelix's Glare or Assault Vest users' Poison Fang, so that Groudon does not recklessly switch into them and get crippled. Slow pivots are great
Once Groudon's checks have been dealt with, pivot Groudon in against something that it
Team Options
========
This Groudon set fits as a late-game sweeper and cleaner for both offensive and balance teams, as it can easily gain a free turn to set up. Wallbreakers are
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
More offensive teams can opt for Morning Sun, which has half the PP of Shore Up but heals
Checks and Counters
===================
**Bulky Dragon-types**: Prankster variants of Giratina and Zygarde-C have enough bulk to take V-create and can use Haze to remove any Shell Smash or Download boosts Groudon has accumulated. Other variants are generally safe switch-ins, but can lose to Shell Smash Groudon, especially with entry hazards up. Assault Vest variants of both
**Strong Special Attackers**: Several faster special attackers can check unboosted Primal Groudon after it gets a KO. Kyurem-W
**Imposter**: Shell Smash Groudon is very vulnerable to Imposter, and finding
**Ground-types and Ground-type Coverage**: Defensive sets of Primal Groudon should be wary of Mega Garchomp. Mega Garchomp outspeeds Primal Groudon that has not set up and threatens defensive sets out with its Ground-type STAB moves. Its common movesets also prove troublesome to many common teammates
**Sturdy Shedinja**: Sturdy Shedinja walls most of Primal Groudon's attacks, but Groudon can use Will-O-Wisp on it, and can often force Stealth Rock up against Shedinja's teammates, making it difficult to switch Shedinja in. Shell Smash sets are usually helpless against Sturdy Shedinja.
**Other Prankster Users**: Prankster users such as Registeel and Aegislash can threaten to trade themselves for Shell Smash Groudon with Destiny Bond, but defensive sets can just use these passive walls as opportunities to set up Stealth Rock or use Will-O-Wisp.
**
[CREDITS]
- Written by: [SuperSkylake, 323219]
- Quality checked by: [[Electrolyte, 148072], [GL Volkner, 330455], [Chessking345, 355040]]
- Grammar checked by: [[username1, userid1], [username2, userid2]]
bigtalk
Banned deucer.
Couple of things you missed, otherwise looks good
addremove (comment)
(AC=add comma; RC=remove comma; AH=add hyphen; RH=remove hyphen)
add
(AC=add comma; RC=remove comma; AH=add hyphen; RH=remove hyphen)
[OVERVIEW]
Primal Groudon is a powerful bulky attacker in the metagame when equipped with Red Orb, which leaves it with only a Ground-type weakness and a STAB V-create that can OHKO even relatively bulky targets that take neutral damage, such as Mega Audino, Xerneas, and Mega Mewtwo X. It is also offensively versatile, with a wide choice of viable coverage moves such as Fleur Cannon and Bolt Strike that can lure in and(weaken/KO) (add "weaken" or add "KO") otherwise reliable checks such as Giratina and Celesteela, respectively. Its base 180 Attack and base 150 Special Attack are excellent for mixed attacking sets as well, and Desolate Land turns a 4x weakness to Water into an immunity, giving Primal Groudon more opportunities to switch in. It has excellent bulk and typing, which lets it tank hits from powerful attackers, such as Primal Kyogre, Mega Diancie, and Regigigas, and OHKO them back. It is initially quite slow, so it struggles against faster Pokemon such as Mega Mewtwo Y and Kyurem-W that target its weaker special bulk. It is normally checked by some ubiquitous defensive Pokemon such as Zygarde-C and Giratina, but can bypass them with the appropriate coverage moves on mixed sets or force them to switch in and give momentum to the Primal Groudon user. It is fairly one-dimensional, as its item and ability are restricted to Red Orb and Desolate Land, though it still carries staggering power despite these limitations.
[SET]
name: Defensive
move 1: V-create
move 2: Shore Up
move 3: Stealth Rock / Bolt Strike
move 4: Anchor Shot / Will-O-Wisp
item: Red Orb
ability: Intimidate / Electric Surge / Download
nature: Impish / Careful
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
V-create deals fatal damage to targets that do not resist it such as Dialga, Mega Audino, and Xerneas, letting Primal Groudon check these threats. Shore Up keeps Primal Groudon's HP high, letting it continually check threatening Pokemon such as Regigigas and Mega Diancie. It has double the PP of Morning Sun, making it preferable for longer games. Stealth Rock is also viable, as Primal Groudon forces many switches, and the movelets it gives it something to do as Prankster Dragon-types such as Giratina and Zygarde-C switch in. Bolt Strike deals heavy damage to Mega Slowbro, Celesteela, Ho-Oh, and other Fire-immune Steel-types like Celesteela. When boosted by Electric Terrain, Bolt Strike is a 2HKO against Mega Slowbro. Anchor Shot traps some defensive switch-ins, such as Primordial Sea Celesteela, Mega Slowbro, and Ho-Oh, preventing them from escaping the follow-up move. It also threatens to trap Imposter users that are not running Shed Shell, preventing them from safely switching into or staying in against Primal Groudon. Will-O-Wisp deals useful chip damage to common switch-ins such as Giratina, Zygarde-C, and Mega Slowbro; the chip damage also KOes Sturdy Shedinja. Thousand Arrows may be run instead of Bolt Strike as another strong STAB move that can invalidate Ho-Oh and Celesteela as checks. Primal Groudon can set other entry hazards such as Spikes if your team already has a Stealth Rock setter, but this mandates a Magic Bounce teammate to prevent Imposters from doing the same.
Set Details
========
Intimidate can soften physical blows the first time Primal Groudon comes in, allowing it to be a better check to some physical attackers that might otherwise deal fatal damage to it, such as opposing Primal Groudon. Electric Surge powers up Bolt Strike and prevents Primal Groudon from being put to sleep. Download is useful if Primal Groudon gets an Attack raise, but this boost is often removed or stolen by its counters via Haze or Spectral Thief. Red Orb gives Primal Groudon a far more useful defensive typing, higher physical bulk, and greater power behind its attacks. An Impish nature is preferred to bolster Primal Groudon's Defense so it can better take boosted and super effective hits.Impish Primal Groudon is An Impish nature makes Primal Groudon guaranteed to survive Regigigas's +1 Facade after Stealth Rock damage and has gives it a good chance to avoid the 2HKO from Mega Diancie's Precipice Blades. A Careful nature allows Primal Groudon to handle Mega Diancie's Boomburst better, but results in Primal Groudon being 2HKOed by Precipice Blades on the switch, assuming both moves hit.
Usage Tips
========
This Primal Groudon set usually plays as a defensive pivot by forcing switches that its teammates can capitalize on. In the early-game, Anchor Shot is a risk-free move to click, as the only common Pokemon that can safely avoid being trapped are Zygarde-C, Giratina, Shed Shell Imposter users, and Flash Fire Aegislash. Giratina is a fairly passive Pokemon and Aegislash cannot risk taking a possible Ground-type attack, but Primal Groudon should scout Imposter users for a possible Shed Shell, which can cause them to deplete Primal Groudon's PP if they successfully trap Primal Groudon. Most other switch-ins can easily be trapped and then removed the next turn with Bolt Strike (RC) or have Stealth Rock set up on them as they pivot out. If running Stealth Rock, it is important to scout for Magic Bounce Pokemon by using Will-O-Wisp if Primal Groudon has it or by analyzing how your opponent responds to Primal Groudon. Most teams are forced to switch the same Pokemon into Primal Groudon as it comes in, making your opponent more predictable. You can use this tendency to dictate your opponent's plays, maintain momentum, and wear their team down with entry hazard damage and double switches. Be mindful of the low PP of V-create and Bolt Strike, as after either move is used up, Primal Groudon becomes far easier to switch into for the opponent. If you need Primal Groudon to check a threatening Pokemon such as Mega Diancie, Mega Beedrill, or a Poison Heal user like Regigigas or Xerneas, play more carefully with it and ensure that its HP stays high enough to take them on.
Team Options
========
This set fits on many balance teams thanks to its ability to force predictable switches. Powerful special or mixed wallbreakers, such as Choice Specs Mega Diancie, Ash-Greninja, and Pixilate Mega Mewtwo X can threaten Primal Groudon's common checks such as Shedinja, Zygarde-C, Flash Fire Steel-types, Mega Garchomp, and Giratina, and they appreciate Primal Groudon trapping and KOing their standard defensive answers such as Soundproof Mega Slowbro and Celesteela. Primal Groudon can Imposter-proof Mega Diancie and Ash-Greninja if they do not carry a Ground-type attack, as well as Pixilate Mega Mewtwo X. Setup checks such as Prankster Zygarde-C, Prankster Haze Registeel,or and Choice Scarf Imposter can give the team a safety net against unexpected setup Pokemon, allowing Primal Groudon to play more defensively against setup-heavy teams. RegenVest Pokemon such as Dialga and Primal Kyogre check special attackers and pivot Primal Groudon in safely with U-turn. Poison Heal users such as Xerneas, Mega Tyranitar, and Regigigas provide an additional layer of protection against status, can remove items such as Shed Shell and Leftovers with Knock Off, and spread their own status to help Primal Groudon, while Primal Groudon can check powerful wallbreakers that might force them out. If Primal Groudon is running Stealth Rock, a Magic Bounce teammate that resists V-create such as Zygarde-C or Giratina can prevent Imposters from setting up Stealth Rock against your team.
[SET]
name: Shell Smash
move 1: Shell Smash
move 2: V-create
move 3: Thousand Arrows / Power Trip / Precipice Blades
move 4: Fleur Cannon / Ice Beam
item: Red Orb
ability: Download
nature: Naughty
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Shell Smash sets Primal Groudon up to sweep the opposing team and outspeed the entire unboosted metagame. +2 Precipice Blades is a guaranteed OHKO against both Mega Mewtwo formes, sparing Primal Groudon from having to use V-create on them. V-create deals enormous damage to targets neutral to it such as Mega Audino and Arceus, and, at +2, can even land OHKOs on targets that resist it such as Primal Kyogre and Mega Gyarados. However, the Speed- and Defense-lowering effects leave Primal Groudon slightly more vulnerable to revengeKOs killing from Choice Scarf and priority users. Thousand Arrows allows Primal Groudon to hit Flying-types with its STAB Ground-type move and has respectable power at +2. Precipice Blades has a noticeably higher damage output against bulky neutral targets such as Flash Fire Ferrothorn, but cannot hit Flying-types, which may allow a daring opponent to more easily pivot around Primal Groudon with immunities. Power Trip hits Mega Slowbro, Giratina, Ho-Oh, Flash Fire Celesteela, and Flash Fire Ferrothorn hard. (pblades sentence should go here to match slash order) The move's accuracy is also imperfect. Fleur Cannon is the best move to complement Fire-type coverage, severely damaging physically defensive Pokemon that can take Thousand Arrows and V-create such as Giratina, Zygarde-C, and Mega Slowbro. +2 Fleur Cannon has a chance to OHKO non-Assault Vest Giratina after Stealth Rock damage. Ice Beam is viable alongside Power Trip, as it hits Dragon- and Ground-types super effectively, notably OHKOing Zygarde-C at +2 regardless of Zygarde-C's set. However, Primal Groudon loses the ability to OHKO Giratina. Core Enforcer can allow Primal Groudon to stay in against Prankster Dragon-types such as Zygarde-C, though Primal Groudon will take severe damage from Dragon-types' (?) Core Enforcer if it sets up a second time. Bonemerang is another niche option that allows Primal Groudon to break through Focus Sash and Substitute users, but it is only marginally more powerful than Thousand Arrows and has less accuracy.
Set Details
========
It is best to use a Naughty nature so that Primal Groudon's offenses are not degraded. Most priority moves are physical and Primal Groudon can tank a few of them if it's healthy. Primal Groudon is still able to outspeed base 140 Speed Pokemon, such as Mega Mewtwo Y, after Shell Smash followed by a Speed drop from V-create. Even with a Naughty nature, Primal Groudon is still able to survive special priority moves from full HP. Red Orb is mandatory for Primal Reversion, which increases Primal Groudon's Attack, Defense, and subpar Special Attack. Download gives Primal Groudon a boost to one of its offensive stats, which synergizes well with Shell Smash. +3 Special Attack is enough to OHKO all variants of Giratina with Fleur Cannon except Assault Vest ones, which can still be KOed after Stealth Rock damage. +3 Attack allows Primal Groudon to (OH?)KO non-Fur Coat Giratina with Precipice Blades.
Usage Tips
========
This set operates mainly as a late-game sweeper, but against teams without reliable checks to it, it can be used as a wallbreaker or an emergency check to a physical attacker. It is a good idea to keep Primal Groudon healthy enough to take priority moves such as Fake Out + Extreme Speed from Kyurem-B. Scout for status moves such as Mega Steelix's Glare or Assault Vest users' Poison Fang (RC) so that Primal Groudon does not recklessly switch into them and get crippled. Slow pivots are great for scouting for such moves and can get Primal Groudon in safely throughout the game, and Primal Groudon's threatening presence and low list of switch-ins helps to maintain momentum. Utilize entry hazard damage and make offensive double switches to wear down Primal Groudon's checks, such as Giratina and Zygarde-C. Several other sorts of checks must be dealt with as well. Prankster users can remove Primal Groudon's boosts, use Encore on it, or force an unfavorable trade with Destiny Bond. Focus Sash users with Spectral Thief such as Mega Mewtwo X can stop Primal Groudon's sweep as well and must be worn down before Primal Groudon can sweep.
Once Primal Groudon's checks have been dealt with, pivot Primal Groudon in against something that it forces out, such as a Steel-type, for a free setup turn. Be very wary of Imposter users, because they can easily countersweep or,(remove extra comma) at best,(remove extra comma) force a two-for-one trade with your Prankster Destiny Bond user. Try not to reveal Primal Groudon's set to Imposter users before it is ready to set up, as your opponent will then be unsure of what they must preserve to check it. If you have a teammate to Imposter-proofthe this set, keep it alive to protect yourself from being counterswept by Imposters. Be careful of faster attackers such as priority and Choice Scarf users, which can accumulate significant chip damage on Primal Groudon after its defenses have been lowered with Shell Smash and/or or V-create. Do not be afraid to switch Primal Groudon out after it sets up and KOes something a Pokemon to save it for later, as its bulk, especially on the physical side, is surprisingly good and might allow it to set up again.
Team Options
========
This Primal Groudon set fits as a late-game sweeper and cleaner for both offensive and balance teams, as it can easily gain a free turn to set up. Wallbreakers are key to setting the stage for its sweep. Examples include Mega Garchomp and Choice Band Mega Mewtwo X. These Pokemon can chip Primal Groudon's standard checks such as Giratinaor and Zygarde-C into KO range of Fleur Cannon or Ice Beam, force trades with Prankster users, defeat Sturdy Shedinja with Moongeist Beam or Photon Geyser, and wear down Imposter users that switch in to scout their sets. Imposter-proofing this set depends entirely on the coverage. For example, Shedinja can Imposter-proof all variants and keep up pressure by using U-turn on the Imposter's forced switch. Primordial Sea Celesteela can handle variants with Precipice Blades. Hyper offensive teams may not want to lose momentum switching into an Imposter-(AH)proofer (remove comment from earlier check), so a Focus Sash user such as Magic Guard Mega Diancie can use Spectral Thief to steal the boosts from an Imposter that copies Primal Groudon and continue sweeping with them. Offensive entry hazard setters like Stealth Rock Mega Diancie, Mold Breaker Spikes Mega Gengar, Spikes Kartana, and Spikes Xerneas can help weaken walls and break Focus Sashes with their hazards. Kartana and Mold Breaker Gengar with Pursuit can threaten Shedinja, one of the most reliable checks to this set. Flash Fire Steel-types like Registeel can switch into -ate users and threaten to trap Imposters that switch in to them, both of which are otherwise threatening to Primal Groudon. Another setup sweeper such as Shell Smash Mega Tyranitar, Shell Smash Mega Gengar, or Belly Drum Necrozma-DM can finish sweeping where Primal Groudon leaves off if it is somehow KOed. Since many teams carry just a single Prankster user, trading for it can allow the other sweeper to sweep unhindered. Mega Tyranitar and Necrozma-DM can also weaken walls like Giratina and Zygarde-C early-game so Primal Groudon can KO them later. Bulky entry hazard control Pokemon such as Defog Giratina and Pixilate Rapid Spin Mega Diancie are useful as partners to allow Primal Groudon to survive priority moves. They can also pivot Primal Groudon in with a slow U-turn and absorb status moves aimed at your offensive Pokemon. Giratina can also opt to run Z-Parting Shot to give Primal Groudon a second chance at sweeping. A way to offensively check Mega Mewtwo Y and Mega Gengar is useful, as they heavily damage and outspeed Primal Groudon before it sets up. Choice Scarf Adaptability Mega Gengar and Tough Claws Mega Beedrill check these threats and can use U-turn on (forced?) forced switches. Choice Band Adaptability Mega Tyranitar can Pursuit trap Giratina, Mega Gengar, and Mega Mewtwo Y to help Primal Groudon.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
More offensive teams can opt for Morning Sun, which has half the PP of Shore Up but heals more HP per use. Knock Off or Poison Fang can be run to cripple common switch-ins such as Giratina, Zygarde-C, and Mega Slowbro. A Shift Gear set with Thousand Arrows, V-create, and a recovery move can sweep in the late-game, but it is forced out by too many threats such as Giratina, Zygarde-C, and Imposter to be reliable. Primal Groudon can forego Primal Reversion with a Leftovers + Fur Coat set to become a physical wall with an Electric immunity that can trap its Imposter with Thousand Waves. It does not have the 4xIce Ice-type weakness of Zygarde-C, but some common physical attackers like Adaptability Mega Mewtwo X and Refrigerate users still beat it. Mega Swampert can take hits from Kyurem-B better due to its additional Water typing, but has lower overall physical bulk.
Checks and Counters
===================
**Bulky Dragon-types**: Prankster variants of Giratina and Zygarde-C have enough bulk to take V-create and can use Haze to remove any Shell Smash or Download boosts Primal Groudon has accumulated. Other variants are generally safe switch-ins, but can lose to Shell Smash Primal Groudon, especially with entry hazards up. Assault Vest variants of both Dragon-types can take a +2 Fleur Cannon or Ice Beam from full HP and use Spectral Thief to steal Primal Groudon's boosts. Non-Prankster Giratina may not survive +3 Precipice Blades, however.
**Strong Special Attackers**: Several faster special attackers can check unboosted Primal Groudon after it gets a KO. Kyurem-W (fix spacing)OHKOes Primal Groudon with Refrigerate Boomburst, regardless of whether or not the former runs a boosting item. Normalize Mega Gengar threatens to render Primal Groudon impotent with Entrainment. Primordial Sea Ash-Greninja forces out Primal Groudon with its Water-type STAB moves.
**Imposter**: Shell Smash Primal Groudon is very vulnerable to Imposter, and finding a Pokemon that can wall its most effective moveset is difficult. Imposter must, however, switch out after discovering Anchor Shot sets or be trapped and PP stalled, unless it runs Shed Shell, in which case it can easily PP stall Primal Groudon or set up Stealth Rock.
**Ground-types and Ground-type Coverage**: Defensive sets of Primal Groudon should be wary of Mega Garchomp. Mega Garchomp outspeeds Primal Groudon that has not set up and threatens defensive sets out with its Ground-type STAB moves. Its commonmovesets sets also prove troublesome to many common teammates that Primal Groudon works well alongside, and it can even live a single V-create. Primal Groudon is 2HKOed by Mega Diancie's Precipice Blades without an Impish nature, allowing Mega Diancie to easily PP stall Primal Groudon's recovery move if Precipice Blades doesn't miss. Zygarde-C often runs Thousand Waves and can survive V-create, letting it trap and KO Primal Groudon. Sheer Force Mega Mewtwo Y OHKOes Primal Groudon with Earth Power.
**Sturdy Shedinja**: Sturdy Shedinja walls most of Primal Groudon's attacks, but Primal Groudon can use Will-O-Wisp on it (RC) and can often force Stealth Rock up against Shedinja's teammates, making it difficult to switch Shedinja in. Shell Smash sets are usually helpless against Sturdy Shedinja, (AC) however.
**Other Prankster Users**: Prankster users such as Registeel and Aegislash can threaten to trade themselves for Shell Smash Primal Groudon with Destiny Bond, but defensive sets can just use these passive walls as opportunities to set up Stealth Rock or use Will-O-Wisp.
**Fire-immune Steel-types**: Flash Fire Steel-types such as Registeel and Ferrothorn can be very annoying to defensive Primal Groudon sets. Given a safe switch, they can recover any damage done to them and proceed to trap Primal Groudon. However, they risk losing to Precipice Blades and Shell Smash variants. Primordial Sea Celesteela works similarly, but fears Thousand Arrows and Shell Smash-boosted Power Trip.
[CREDITS]
- Written by: [SuperSkylake, 323219]
- Quality checked by: [[Electrolyte, 148072], [GL Volkner, 330455], [Chessking345, 355040]]
- Grammar checked by: [[username1, userid1], [username2, userid2]]
Primal Groudon is a powerful bulky attacker in the metagame when equipped with Red Orb, which leaves it with only a Ground-type weakness and a STAB V-create that can OHKO even relatively bulky targets that take neutral damage, such as Mega Audino, Xerneas, and Mega Mewtwo X. It is also offensively versatile, with a wide choice of viable coverage moves such as Fleur Cannon and Bolt Strike that can lure in and
[SET]
name: Defensive
move 1: V-create
move 2: Shore Up
move 3: Stealth Rock / Bolt Strike
move 4: Anchor Shot / Will-O-Wisp
item: Red Orb
ability: Intimidate / Electric Surge / Download
nature: Impish / Careful
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
V-create deals fatal damage to targets that do not resist it such as Dialga, Mega Audino, and Xerneas, letting Primal Groudon check these threats. Shore Up keeps Primal Groudon's HP high, letting it continually check threatening Pokemon such as Regigigas and Mega Diancie. It has double the PP of Morning Sun, making it preferable for longer games. Stealth Rock is also viable, as Primal Groudon forces many switches, and the move
Set Details
========
Intimidate can soften physical blows the first time Primal Groudon comes in, allowing it to be a better check to some physical attackers that might otherwise deal fatal damage to it, such as opposing Primal Groudon. Electric Surge powers up Bolt Strike and prevents Primal Groudon from being put to sleep. Download is useful if Primal Groudon gets an Attack raise, but this boost is often removed or stolen by its counters via Haze or Spectral Thief. Red Orb gives Primal Groudon a far more useful defensive typing, higher physical bulk, and greater power behind its attacks. An Impish nature is preferred to bolster Primal Groudon's Defense so it can better take boosted and super effective hits.
Usage Tips
========
This Primal Groudon set usually plays as a defensive pivot by forcing switches that its teammates can capitalize on. In the early-game, Anchor Shot is a risk-free move to click, as the only common Pokemon that can safely avoid being trapped are Zygarde-C, Giratina, Shed Shell Imposter users, and Flash Fire Aegislash. Giratina is a fairly passive Pokemon and Aegislash cannot risk taking a possible Ground-type attack, but Primal Groudon should scout Imposter users for a possible Shed Shell, which can cause them to deplete Primal Groudon's PP if they successfully trap Primal Groudon. Most other switch-ins can easily be trapped and then removed the next turn with Bolt Strike (RC) or have Stealth Rock set up on them as they pivot out. If running Stealth Rock, it is important to scout for Magic Bounce Pokemon by using Will-O-Wisp if Primal Groudon has it or by analyzing how your opponent responds to Primal Groudon. Most teams are forced to switch the same Pokemon into Primal Groudon as it comes in, making your opponent more predictable. You can use this tendency to dictate your opponent's plays, maintain momentum, and wear their team down with entry hazard damage and double switches. Be mindful of the low PP of V-create and Bolt Strike, as after either move is used up, Primal Groudon becomes far easier to switch into for the opponent. If you need Primal Groudon to check a threatening Pokemon such as Mega Diancie, Mega Beedrill, or a Poison Heal user like Regigigas or Xerneas, play more carefully with it and ensure that its HP stays high enough to take them on.
Team Options
========
This set fits on many balance teams thanks to its ability to force predictable switches. Powerful special or mixed wallbreakers, such as Choice Specs Mega Diancie, Ash-Greninja, and Pixilate Mega Mewtwo X can threaten Primal Groudon's common checks such as Shedinja, Zygarde-C, Flash Fire Steel-types, Mega Garchomp, and Giratina, and they appreciate Primal Groudon trapping and KOing their standard defensive answers such as Soundproof Mega Slowbro and Celesteela. Primal Groudon can Imposter-proof Mega Diancie and Ash-Greninja if they do not carry a Ground-type attack, as well as Pixilate Mega Mewtwo X. Setup checks such as Prankster Zygarde-C, Prankster Haze Registeel,
[SET]
name: Shell Smash
move 1: Shell Smash
move 2: V-create
move 3: Thousand Arrows / Power Trip / Precipice Blades
move 4: Fleur Cannon / Ice Beam
item: Red Orb
ability: Download
nature: Naughty
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Shell Smash sets Primal Groudon up to sweep the opposing team and outspeed the entire unboosted metagame. +2 Precipice Blades is a guaranteed OHKO against both Mega Mewtwo formes, sparing Primal Groudon from having to use V-create on them. V-create deals enormous damage to targets neutral to it such as Mega Audino and Arceus, and, at +2, can even land OHKOs on targets that resist it such as Primal Kyogre and Mega Gyarados. However, the Speed- and Defense-lowering effects leave Primal Groudon slightly more vulnerable to revenge
Set Details
========
It is best to use a Naughty nature so that Primal Groudon's offenses are not degraded. Most priority moves are physical and Primal Groudon can tank a few of them if it's healthy. Primal Groudon is still able to outspeed base 140 Speed Pokemon, such as Mega Mewtwo Y, after Shell Smash followed by a Speed drop from V-create. Even with a Naughty nature, Primal Groudon is still able to survive special priority moves from full HP. Red Orb is mandatory for Primal Reversion, which increases Primal Groudon's Attack, Defense, and subpar Special Attack. Download gives Primal Groudon a boost to one of its offensive stats, which synergizes well with Shell Smash. +3 Special Attack is enough to OHKO all variants of Giratina with Fleur Cannon except Assault Vest ones, which can still be KOed after Stealth Rock damage. +3 Attack allows Primal Groudon to (OH?)KO non-Fur Coat Giratina with Precipice Blades.
Usage Tips
========
This set operates mainly as a late-game sweeper, but against teams without reliable checks to it, it can be used as a wallbreaker or an emergency check to a physical attacker. It is a good idea to keep Primal Groudon healthy enough to take priority moves such as Fake Out + Extreme Speed from Kyurem-B. Scout for status moves such as Mega Steelix's Glare or Assault Vest users' Poison Fang (RC) so that Primal Groudon does not recklessly switch into them and get crippled. Slow pivots are great for scouting for such moves and can get Primal Groudon in safely throughout the game, and Primal Groudon's threatening presence and low list of switch-ins helps to maintain momentum. Utilize entry hazard damage and make offensive double switches to wear down Primal Groudon's checks, such as Giratina and Zygarde-C. Several other sorts of checks must be dealt with as well. Prankster users can remove Primal Groudon's boosts, use Encore on it, or force an unfavorable trade with Destiny Bond. Focus Sash users with Spectral Thief such as Mega Mewtwo X can stop Primal Groudon's sweep as well and must be worn down before Primal Groudon can sweep.
Once Primal Groudon's checks have been dealt with, pivot Primal Groudon in against something that it forces out, such as a Steel-type, for a free setup turn. Be very wary of Imposter users, because they can easily countersweep or,(remove extra comma) at best,(remove extra comma) force a two-for-one trade with your Prankster Destiny Bond user. Try not to reveal Primal Groudon's set to Imposter users before it is ready to set up, as your opponent will then be unsure of what they must preserve to check it. If you have a teammate to Imposter-proof
Team Options
========
This Primal Groudon set fits as a late-game sweeper and cleaner for both offensive and balance teams, as it can easily gain a free turn to set up. Wallbreakers are key to setting the stage for its sweep. Examples include Mega Garchomp and Choice Band Mega Mewtwo X. These Pokemon can chip Primal Groudon's standard checks such as Giratina
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
More offensive teams can opt for Morning Sun, which has half the PP of Shore Up but heals more HP per use. Knock Off or Poison Fang can be run to cripple common switch-ins such as Giratina, Zygarde-C, and Mega Slowbro. A Shift Gear set with Thousand Arrows, V-create, and a recovery move can sweep in the late-game, but it is forced out by too many threats such as Giratina, Zygarde-C, and Imposter to be reliable. Primal Groudon can forego Primal Reversion with a Leftovers + Fur Coat set to become a physical wall with an Electric immunity that can trap its Imposter with Thousand Waves. It does not have the 4x
Checks and Counters
===================
**Bulky Dragon-types**: Prankster variants of Giratina and Zygarde-C have enough bulk to take V-create and can use Haze to remove any Shell Smash or Download boosts Primal Groudon has accumulated. Other variants are generally safe switch-ins, but can lose to Shell Smash Primal Groudon, especially with entry hazards up. Assault Vest variants of both Dragon-types can take a +2 Fleur Cannon or Ice Beam from full HP and use Spectral Thief to steal Primal Groudon's boosts. Non-Prankster Giratina may not survive +3 Precipice Blades, however.
**Strong Special Attackers**: Several faster special attackers can check unboosted Primal Groudon after it gets a KO. Kyurem-W (fix spacing)OHKOes Primal Groudon with Refrigerate Boomburst, regardless of whether or not the former runs a boosting item. Normalize Mega Gengar threatens to render Primal Groudon impotent with Entrainment. Primordial Sea Ash-Greninja forces out Primal Groudon with its Water-type STAB moves.
**Imposter**: Shell Smash Primal Groudon is very vulnerable to Imposter, and finding a Pokemon that can wall its most effective moveset is difficult. Imposter must, however, switch out after discovering Anchor Shot sets or be trapped and PP stalled, unless it runs Shed Shell, in which case it can easily PP stall Primal Groudon or set up Stealth Rock.
**Ground-types and Ground-type Coverage**: Defensive sets of Primal Groudon should be wary of Mega Garchomp. Mega Garchomp outspeeds Primal Groudon that has not set up and threatens defensive sets out with its Ground-type STAB moves. Its common
**Sturdy Shedinja**: Sturdy Shedinja walls most of Primal Groudon's attacks, but Primal Groudon can use Will-O-Wisp on it (RC) and can often force Stealth Rock up against Shedinja's teammates, making it difficult to switch Shedinja in. Shell Smash sets are usually helpless against Sturdy Shedinja, (AC) however.
**Other Prankster Users**: Prankster users such as Registeel and Aegislash can threaten to trade themselves for Shell Smash Primal Groudon with Destiny Bond, but defensive sets can just use these passive walls as opportunities to set up Stealth Rock or use Will-O-Wisp.
**Fire-immune Steel-types**: Flash Fire Steel-types such as Registeel and Ferrothorn can be very annoying to defensive Primal Groudon sets. Given a safe switch, they can recover any damage done to them and proceed to trap Primal Groudon. However, they risk losing to Precipice Blades and Shell Smash variants. Primordial Sea Celesteela works similarly, but fears Thousand Arrows and Shell Smash-boosted Power Trip.
[CREDITS]
- Written by: [SuperSkylake, 323219]
- Quality checked by: [[Electrolyte, 148072], [GL Volkner, 330455], [Chessking345, 355040]]
- Grammar checked by: [[username1, userid1], [username2, userid2]]
SuperSkylake can you add the remainder of what bigtalk has
implemented
GP 2/2
[OVERVIEW]
Primal Groudon is a powerful bulky attackerin the metagame when equipped with Red Orb, which leaves it with only a Ground-type weakness and a STAB V-create that can OHKO even relatively bulky targets that take neutral damage, such as Mega Audino, Xerneas, and Mega Mewtwo X. It is also offensively versatile, with a wide choice of viable coverage moves such as Fleur Cannon and Bolt Strike that can enable it to lure in and weaken otherwise reliable checks such as Giratina and Celesteela, respectively. Its base 180 Attack and base 150 Special Attack are excellent for mixed attacking sets as well, and Desolate Land's turns a 4x weakness to Water into an immunity, giving gives Primal Groudon more opportunities to switch in. It has Excellent bulk and typing, which lets also let it tank hits from powerful attackers, such as Primal Kyogre, Mega Diancie, and Regigigas, and OHKO them back. However, it is initially quite slow, so it struggles against faster Pokemon such as Mega Mewtwo Y and Kyurem-W that target its weaker special bulk. It also is normally checked by some ubiquitous defensive Pokemon such as Zygarde-C and Giratina, but can though it bypass them with the appropriate coverage moves on mixed sets or force them to switch in and give momentum to the Primal Groudon user. Lastly, it is fairly one-dimensional, as its item and ability are restricted to Red Orb and Desolate Land, though it still carries staggering power despite these limitations.
[SET]
name: Defensive
move 1: V-create
move 2: Shore Up
move 3: Stealth Rock / Bolt Strike
move 4: Anchor Shot / Will-O-Wisp
item: Red Orb
ability: Intimidate / Electric Surge / Download
nature: Impish / Careful
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
V-create deals fatal damage to targets that do not resist it such as Dialga, Mega Audino, and Xerneas, letting Primal Groudon check these threats. Shore Up keeps Primal Groudon's HP high, letting it continually check threatening Pokemon such as Regigigas and Mega Diancie. It has double the PP of Morning Sun, making it preferable for longer games. Stealth Rock is also viable, as Primal Groudon forces many switches, and the move gives it something to do as Prankster Dragon-types such as Giratina and Zygarde-C switch in. Alternatively, Bolt Strike deals heavy damage to Mega Slowbro, Celesteela, Ho-Oh, and other Fire-immune Steel-types like Celesteela. When boosted by Electric Terrain, Bolt Strike is a 2HKO against Mega Slowbro. Anchor Shot traps some defensive switch-ins, such as Primordial Sea Celesteela, Mega Slowbro, and Ho-Oh, preventing them from escaping thefollow-up followup move. It also threatens to trap Imposter users that are not running Shed Shell, preventing them from safely switching into or staying in against Primal Groudon. Will-O-Wisp deals useful chip damage to common switch-ins such as Giratina, Zygarde-C, and Mega Slowbro; the chip damage also and KOes Sturdy Shedinja. Thousand Arrows may be run instead of Bolt Strike as another strong STAB move that can invalidate Ho-Oh and Celesteela as checks. Primal Groudon can set other entry hazards such as Spikes if your team already has a Stealth Rock setter, but this mandates a Magic Bounce teammate to prevent Imposters from doing the same.
Set Details
========
Intimidate can soften physical blows the first time Primal Groudon comes in, allowing it to be a better check to some physical attackers that might otherwise deal fatal damage to it, such as opposing Primal Groudon. Electric Surge powers up Bolt Strike and prevents Primal Groudon from being put to sleep. Lastly, Download is useful if Primal Groudon gets an Attack raise, but this boost is often removed or stolen by its counters via Haze or Spectral Thief. Red Orb gives Primal Groudon a far more useful defensive typing, higher physical bulk, and greater power behind its attacks. An Impish nature is preferred to bolster Primal Groudon's Defense so it can better take boosted and super effective hits, (comma)An Impish nature guarantees notably guaranteeing that Primal Groudon it survives Regigigas's +1 Facade after Stealth Rock damage and gives giving it a good chance to avoid the 2HKO from Mega Diancie's Precipice Blades. A Careful nature allows Primal Groudon to handle Mega Diancie's Boomburst better (RC) but results in Primal Groudon being 2HKOed by Precipice Blades on the switch.
Usage Tips
========
This Primal Groudon set usually plays as a defensive pivot by forcing switches that its teammates can capitalize on.In the Early-game, Anchor Shot is a risk-free move to click, as the only common Pokemon that can safely avoid being trapped are Zygarde-C, Giratina, Shed Shell Imposter users, and Flash Fire Aegislash. Giratina is a fairly passive Pokemon and Aegislash cannot risk taking a possible Ground-type attack, but Primal Groudon should scout Imposter users for a possible Shed Shell, which can cause them to deplete Primal Groudon's PP if they successfully trap Primal Groudon. Most other switch-ins can easily be trapped and then removed the next turn with Bolt Strike or have Stealth Rock set up on them as they pivot out. If running Stealth Rock, it is important to scout for Magic Bounce Pokemon by using Will-O-Wisp if Primal Groudon has it or by analyzing how your opponent responds to Primal Groudon. Most teams are forced to switch the same Pokemon into Primal Groudon as it comes in, making your opponent more predictable. You can use this tendency to dictate your opponent's plays, maintain momentum, and wear their team down with entry hazard damage and double switches. Be mindful of the low PP of V-create and Bolt Strike, as after either move is used up, Primal Groudon becomes far easier to switch into for the opponent. If you need Primal Groudon to check a threatening Pokemon such as Mega Diancie, Mega Beedrill, or a Poison Heal user like Regigigas or Xerneas, play more carefully with it and ensure that its HP stays high enough to take them on.
Team Options
========
This set fits on many balance teams thanks to its ability to force predictable switches. Powerful special or mixed wallbreakers, such as Choice Specs Mega Diancie, Ash-Greninja, and Pixilate Mega Mewtwo X can threaten Primal Groudon's common checks such as Shedinja, Zygarde-C, Flash Fire Steel-types, Mega Garchomp, and Giratina, and they appreciate Primal Groudon trapping and KOing their standard defensive answers such as Soundproof Mega Slowbro and Celesteela. Primal Groudon can Imposter-proof Mega Diancie and Ash-Greninja if they do not carry a Ground-type attack, as well as Pixilate Mega Mewtwo X. Setup checks such as Prankster Zygarde-C, Prankster + Haze Registeel, and Choice Scarf Imposter users can give the team a safety net against unexpected setup Pokemon, allowing Primal Groudon to play more defensively against setup-heavy teams. RegenVest Pokemon such as Dialga and Primal Kyogre check special attackers and pivot Primal Groudon in safely with U-turn. Poison Heal users such as Xerneas, Mega Tyranitar, and Regigigas provide an additional layer of protection against status, can remove items such as Shed Shell and Leftovers with Knock Off, and spread their own status to help Primal Groudon, while Primal Groudon can check powerful wallbreakers that might force them out. If Primal Groudon is running Stealth Rock, a Magic Bounce teammate that resists V-create such as Zygarde-C or Giratina can prevent Imposters from setting up Stealth Rock against your team.
[SET]
name: Shell Smash
move 1: Shell Smash
move 2: V-create
move 3: Thousand Arrows / Power Trip / Precipice Blades
move 4: Fleur Cannon / Ice Beam
item: Red Orb
ability: Download
nature: Naughty
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Shell Smash sets Primal Groudon up to sweep the opposing team and outspeed the entire unboosted metagame. V-create deals enormous damage to targets neutral to it such as Mega Audino and Arceus, and, at +2, it can even land OHKOs on targets that resist it such as Primal Kyogre and Mega Gyarados. However, the Speed- and Defense-lowering effects leave Primal Groudon slightly more vulnerable to revenge killing from Choice Scarf and priority users. Thousand Arrows allows Primal Groudon to hit Flying-types with its STAB Ground-type move and has respectable power at +2. Alternatively, Precipice Blades has a noticeably higher damage output against bulky neutral targets such as Flash Fire Ferrothorn (RC) but cannot hit Flying-types, which may allow a daring opponent to more easily pivot around Primal Groudon with immunities. +2 Precipice Blades also is a guaranteed OHKO against both Mega Mewtwo formes, sparing Primal Groudon from having to use V-create on them. Power Trip is another option that (slashed before blades though) hits Mega Slowbro, Giratina, Ho-Oh, Flash Fire Celesteela, and Flash Fire Ferrothorn hard. The move's accuracy is also imperfect. (no it isn't) Fleur Cannon is the best move to complement Fire-type coverage, severely damaging physically defensive Pokemon that can take Thousand Arrows and V-create such as Giratina, Zygarde-C, and Mega Slowbro. +2 Fleur Cannon has a chance to OHKO non-Assault Vest Giratina after Stealth Rock damage. Ice Beam is viable alongside Power Trip, as it hits Dragon- and Ground-types super effectively, notably OHKOing Zygarde-C at +2 regardless ofZygarde-C's its set. However, Primal Groudon loses the ability to OHKO Giratina. Core Enforcer can allow Primal Groudon to stay in against Prankster + Haze Dragon-types such as Zygarde-C, though Primal Groudon will take severe damage from the opponent's Core Enforcer if it sets up a second time, and its ability will be suppressed, degrading V-create's power. Bonemerang is another niche option that allows Primal Groudon to break through Focus Sash and Substitute users, but it is only marginally more powerful than Thousand Arrows and has less lower accuracy.
Set Details
========
It is best to use a Naughty nature so that Primal Groudon's offenses are not degraded. Most priority moves are physical, (AC) and Primal Groudon can tank a few of them if it's healthy. Primal Groudon is still able to outspeed base 140 Speed Pokemon, such as Mega Mewtwo Y, after Shell Smash followed by a Speed drop from V-create. Even with a Naughty nature, Primal Groudon is still able to survive special priority moves from full HP. Red Orb is mandatory for Primal Reversion, which increases Primal Groudon's Attack, Defense, and subpar Special Attack. Download gives Primal Groudon a boost to one of its offensive stats, which synergizes well with Shell Smash. +3 Special Attack is enough to OHKO all variants of Giratina with Fleur Cannon except Assault Vest ones, which can still be KOed after Stealth Rock damage. +3 Attack allows Primal Groudon to OHKO non-Fur Coat Giratina with Precipice Blades.
Usage Tips
========
This set operates mainly as a late-game sweeper, but against teams without reliable checks to it, it can be used as a wallbreaker or an emergency check to a physical attacker. It is a good idea to keep Primal Groudon healthy enough to take priority moves such as Fake Out + Extreme Speed from Kyurem-B. Scout for status moves such as Mega Steelix's Glareor and Assault Vest users' Poison Fang so that Primal Groudon does not recklessly switch into them and get crippled. Slow pivots are great for scouting for such moves and can get Primal Groudon in safely throughout the game, and Primal Groudon's threatening presence and low list of switch-ins helps help to maintain momentum. Utilize entry hazard damage and make offensive double switches to wear down Primal Groudon's checks, such as Giratina and Zygarde-C. Several other sorts of checks must be dealt with as well. Prankster users can remove Primal Groudon's boosts, use shut it down with Encore on it, or force an unfavorable trade with Destiny Bond. Focus Sash users with Spectral Thief such as Mega Mewtwo X can stop Primal Groudon's sweep as well and must be worn down before Primal Groudon can sweep.
Once Primal Groudon's checks have been dealt with, pivot Primal Groudon in against something that it forces out, such as a Steel-type, for a free setup turn. Be very wary of Imposter users, because they can easily countersweep (RC) or, (AC) at best, force a two-for-one trade with your Prankster Destiny Bond user. Try not to reveal Primal Groudon's set to Imposter users before it is ready to set up, as your opponent will then be unsure of what they must preserve to check it. If you have a teammate to Imposter-proof this set, keep it alive to protect yourself from being counterswept by Imposters. Be careful of faster attackers such as priority and Choice Scarf users, which can accumulate significant chip damage on Primal Groudon after its defenses have been lowered with Shell Smash or or V-create. Do not be afraid to switch Primal Groudon out after it sets up and KOes a Pokemon to save it for later, as its bulk, especiallyon the physical side physically, is surprisingly good and might allow it to set up again.
Team Options
========
This Primal Groudon setfits functions as a late-game sweeper and cleaner for both offensive and balance teams, as it can easily gain a free turn to set up. Wallbreakers are key to setting the stage for its sweep. Examples include Mega Garchomp and Choice Band Mega Mewtwo X. These Pokemon can chip Primal Groudon's standard checks such as Giratina and Zygarde-C into KO range of Fleur Cannon or Ice Beam, force trades with Prankster users, defeat Sturdy Shedinja with Moongeist Beam or Photon Geyser, and wear down Imposter users that switch in to scout their sets. Imposter-proofing this set depends entirely on the coverage. For example, Shedinja can Imposter-proof all variants and keep up pressure by using U-turn on the Imposter's forced switch. Primordial Sea Celesteela can handle variants with Precipice Blades. Hyper offensive teams may not want to lose momentum switching into an Imposter-proofer, so a Focus Sash user such as Magic Guard Mega Diancie can use Spectral Thief to steal the boosts from an Imposter that copies Primal Groudon and continue sweeping with them. Offensive entry hazard setters like Stealth Rock Mega Diancie, Mold Breaker Spikes Mega Gengar, Spikes Kartana, and Spikes Xerneas can help weaken walls and break Focus Sashes with their hazards. Kartana and Mold Breaker Gengar with Pursuit can threaten Shedinja, one of the most reliable checks to this set. Flash Fire Steel-types like Registeel can switch into -ate users and threaten to trap Imposters that switch in to into them, both of which are otherwise threatening to Primal Groudon. Another setup sweeper such as Shell Smash Mega Tyranitar, Shell Smash Mega Gengar, or Belly Drum Necrozma-DM can finish sweeping where Primal Groudon leaves off if it is somehow KOed. Since many teams carry just a single Prankster user, trading for it can allow the other sweeper to sweep unhindered. Mega Tyranitar and Necrozma-DM can also weaken walls like Giratina and Zygarde-C early-game so Primal Groudon can KO them later. Bulky entry hazard control Pokemon such as Defog Giratina and Pixilate Rapid Spin Mega Diancie are useful as partners to allow Primal Groudon to survive priority moves. They can also pivot Primal Groudon in with a slow U-turn and absorb status moves aimed at your offensive Pokemon. Giratina can also opt to run Z-Parting Shot to give Primal Groudon a second chance at sweeping. A way to offensively check Mega Mewtwo Y and Mega Gengar is useful, as they heavily damage and outspeed Primal Groudon before it sets up. Choice Scarf Adaptability Mega Gengar and Tough Claws Mega Beedrill check these threats and can use U-turn on predicted switches. Choice Band Adaptability Mega Tyranitar can Pursuit trap Giratina, Mega Gengar, and Mega Mewtwo Y to help Primal Groudon.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
More offensive teams can opt for Morning Sun, which has half the PP of Shore Up but heals more HP per use. Knock Off or Poison Fang can be run to cripple common switch-ins such as Giratina, Zygarde-C, and Mega Slowbro. A Shift Gear set with Thousand Arrows, V-create, and a recovery move can sweepin the late-game (RC) but is forced out by too many threats such as Giratina, Zygarde-C, and Imposter to be reliable. Primal Groudon can forego Primal Reversion with a Leftovers + Fur Coat set to become a physical wall with an Electric immunity that can trap its Imposter with Thousand Waves. However, while it does not have the 4x Ice-type weakness of Zygarde-C, but some common physical attackers like Adaptability Mega Mewtwo X and Refrigerate users still beat it. Mega Swampert can take hits from Kyurem-B better due to its additional Water typing (RC) but has lower overall physical bulk.
Checks and Counters
===================
**Bulky Dragon-types**: Prankster variants of Giratina and Zygarde-C have enough bulk to take V-create and can use Haze to remove any Shell Smash or Download boosts Primal Groudon has accumulated. Other variants are generally safe switch-ins (RC) but can lose to Shell Smash Primal Groudon, especially with entry hazards up. Assault Vest variants of both Dragon-types can take a +2 Fleur Cannon or Ice Beam from full HP and use Spectral Thief to steal Primal Groudon's boosts. Non-Prankster Giratina may not survive +3 Precipice Blades, however.
**Strong Special Attackers**: Several faster special attackers can check unboosted Primal Groudon after it gets a KO. Kyurem-W OHKOes Primal Groudon with Refrigerate Boomburst, regardless of whether or not the former runs a boosting item. Normalize Mega Gengar threatens to render Primal Groudon impotent with Entrainment. Primordial Sea Ash-Greninja forces out Primal Groudon with its Water-type STAB moves.
**Imposter**: Shell Smash Primal Groudon is very vulnerable to Imposter users, and finding a Pokemon that can wall its most effective moveset is difficult. While Imposter users must, however, switch out after discovering Anchor Shot sets or be trapped and PP stalled, unless it runs if they run Shed Shell, in which case it they can easily PP stall Primal Groudon or set up Stealth Rock.
**Ground-types and Ground-type Coverage**: Defensive sets of Primal Groudon should be wary of Mega Garchomp. Mega Garchomp outspeeds Primal Groudon that has not set up and threatens defensive sets out with its Ground-type STAB moves. Its common sets also prove troublesome to many common teammates that Primal Groudon works well alongside, and it can evenlive take a single V-create. Primal Groudon is 2HKOed by Mega Diancie's Precipice Blades without an Impish nature, allowing Mega Diancie to easily PP stall Primal Groudon's recovery move if Precipice Blades doesn't miss. Zygarde-C often runs Thousand Waves and can survive V-create, letting it trap and KO Primal Groudon. Sheer Force Mega Mewtwo Y OHKOes Primal Groudon with Earth Power.
**Sturdy Shedinja**: Sturdy Shedinja walls most of Primal Groudon's attacks, but Primal Groudon can use Will-O-Wisp on it and can often force Stealth Rock up against Shedinja's teammates, making it difficult to switch Shedinja in. Shell Smash sets are usually helpless against Sturdy Shedinja, however.
**Other Prankster Users**: Prankster users such as Registeel and Aegislash can threaten to trade themselves for Shell Smash Primal Groudon with Destiny Bond, but defensive sets can just use these passive walls as opportunities to set up Stealth Rock or use Will-O-Wisp.
**Fire-immune Steel-types**: Flash Fire Steel-types such as Registeel and Ferrothorn can be very annoying to defensive Primal Groudon sets. Given a safe switch, they can recover any damage done to them and proceed to trap Primal Groudon. However, they risk losing to Precipice Blades and Shell Smash variants. Primordial Sea Celesteela works similarly, but it fears Thousand Arrows and Shell Smash-boosted Power Trip.
[CREDITS]
- Written by: [SuperSkylake, 323219]
- Quality checked by: [[Electrolyte, 148072], [GL Volkner, 330455], [Chessking345, 355040]]
- Grammar checked by: [[bigtalk, 466663]]
Primal Groudon is a powerful bulky attacker
[SET]
name: Defensive
move 1: V-create
move 2: Shore Up
move 3: Stealth Rock / Bolt Strike
move 4: Anchor Shot / Will-O-Wisp
item: Red Orb
ability: Intimidate / Electric Surge / Download
nature: Impish / Careful
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
V-create deals fatal damage to targets that do not resist it such as Dialga, Mega Audino, and Xerneas, letting Primal Groudon check these threats. Shore Up keeps Primal Groudon's HP high, letting it continually check threatening Pokemon such as Regigigas and Mega Diancie. It has double the PP of Morning Sun, making it preferable for longer games. Stealth Rock is also viable, as Primal Groudon forces many switches, and the move gives it something to do as Prankster Dragon-types such as Giratina and Zygarde-C switch in. Alternatively, Bolt Strike deals heavy damage to Mega Slowbro, Celesteela, Ho-Oh, and other Fire-immune Steel-types like Celesteela. When boosted by Electric Terrain, Bolt Strike is a 2HKO against Mega Slowbro. Anchor Shot traps some defensive switch-ins, such as Primordial Sea Celesteela, Mega Slowbro, and Ho-Oh, preventing them from escaping the
Set Details
========
Intimidate can soften physical blows the first time Primal Groudon comes in, allowing it to be a better check to some physical attackers that might otherwise deal fatal damage to it, such as opposing Primal Groudon. Electric Surge powers up Bolt Strike and prevents Primal Groudon from being put to sleep. Lastly, Download is useful if Primal Groudon gets an Attack raise, but this boost is often removed or stolen by its counters via Haze or Spectral Thief. Red Orb gives Primal Groudon a far more useful defensive typing, higher physical bulk, and greater power behind its attacks. An Impish nature is preferred to bolster Primal Groudon's Defense so it can better take boosted and super effective hits, (comma)
Usage Tips
========
This Primal Groudon set usually plays as a defensive pivot by forcing switches that its teammates can capitalize on.
Team Options
========
This set fits on many balance teams thanks to its ability to force predictable switches. Powerful special or mixed wallbreakers, such as Choice Specs Mega Diancie, Ash-Greninja, and Pixilate Mega Mewtwo X can threaten Primal Groudon's common checks such as Shedinja, Zygarde-C, Flash Fire Steel-types, Mega Garchomp, and Giratina, and they appreciate Primal Groudon trapping and KOing their standard defensive answers such as Soundproof Mega Slowbro and Celesteela. Primal Groudon can Imposter-proof Mega Diancie and Ash-Greninja if they do not carry a Ground-type attack, as well as Pixilate Mega Mewtwo X. Setup checks such as Prankster Zygarde-C, Prankster + Haze Registeel, and Choice Scarf Imposter users can give the team a safety net against unexpected setup Pokemon, allowing Primal Groudon to play more defensively against setup-heavy teams. RegenVest Pokemon such as Dialga and Primal Kyogre check special attackers and pivot Primal Groudon in safely with U-turn. Poison Heal users such as Xerneas, Mega Tyranitar, and Regigigas provide an additional layer of protection against status, can remove items such as Shed Shell and Leftovers with Knock Off, and spread their own status to help Primal Groudon, while Primal Groudon can check powerful wallbreakers that might force them out. If Primal Groudon is running Stealth Rock, a Magic Bounce teammate that resists V-create such as Zygarde-C or Giratina can prevent Imposters from setting up Stealth Rock against your team.
[SET]
name: Shell Smash
move 1: Shell Smash
move 2: V-create
move 3: Thousand Arrows / Power Trip / Precipice Blades
move 4: Fleur Cannon / Ice Beam
item: Red Orb
ability: Download
nature: Naughty
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Shell Smash sets Primal Groudon up to sweep the opposing team and outspeed the entire unboosted metagame. V-create deals enormous damage to targets neutral to it such as Mega Audino and Arceus, and, at +2, it can even land OHKOs on targets that resist it such as Primal Kyogre and Mega Gyarados. However, the Speed- and Defense-lowering effects leave Primal Groudon slightly more vulnerable to revenge killing from Choice Scarf and priority users. Thousand Arrows allows Primal Groudon to hit Flying-types with its STAB Ground-type move and has respectable power at +2. Alternatively, Precipice Blades has a noticeably higher damage output against bulky neutral targets such as Flash Fire Ferrothorn (RC) but cannot hit Flying-types, which may allow a daring opponent to more easily pivot around Primal Groudon with immunities. +2 Precipice Blades also is a guaranteed OHKO against both Mega Mewtwo formes, sparing Primal Groudon from having to use V-create on them. Power Trip is another option that (slashed before blades though) hits Mega Slowbro, Giratina, Ho-Oh, Flash Fire Celesteela, and Flash Fire Ferrothorn hard. The move's accuracy is also imperfect. (no it isn't) Fleur Cannon is the best move to complement Fire-type coverage, severely damaging physically defensive Pokemon that can take Thousand Arrows and V-create such as Giratina, Zygarde-C, and Mega Slowbro. +2 Fleur Cannon has a chance to OHKO non-Assault Vest Giratina after Stealth Rock damage. Ice Beam is viable alongside Power Trip, as it hits Dragon- and Ground-types super effectively, notably OHKOing Zygarde-C at +2 regardless of
Set Details
========
It is best to use a Naughty nature so that Primal Groudon's offenses are not degraded. Most priority moves are physical, (AC) and Primal Groudon can tank a few of them if it's healthy. Primal Groudon is still able to outspeed base 140 Speed Pokemon, such as Mega Mewtwo Y, after Shell Smash followed by a Speed drop from V-create. Even with a Naughty nature, Primal Groudon is still able to survive special priority moves from full HP. Red Orb is mandatory for Primal Reversion, which increases Primal Groudon's Attack, Defense, and subpar Special Attack. Download gives Primal Groudon a boost to one of its offensive stats, which synergizes well with Shell Smash. +3 Special Attack is enough to OHKO all variants of Giratina with Fleur Cannon except Assault Vest ones, which can still be KOed after Stealth Rock damage. +3 Attack allows Primal Groudon to OHKO non-Fur Coat Giratina with Precipice Blades.
Usage Tips
========
This set operates mainly as a late-game sweeper, but against teams without reliable checks to it, it can be used as a wallbreaker or an emergency check to a physical attacker. It is a good idea to keep Primal Groudon healthy enough to take priority moves such as Fake Out + Extreme Speed from Kyurem-B. Scout for status moves such as Mega Steelix's Glare
Once Primal Groudon's checks have been dealt with, pivot Primal Groudon in against something that it forces out, such as a Steel-type, for a free setup turn. Be very wary of Imposter users, because they can easily countersweep (RC) or, (AC) at best, force a two-for-one trade with your Prankster Destiny Bond user. Try not to reveal Primal Groudon's set to Imposter users before it is ready to set up, as your opponent will then be unsure of what they must preserve to check it. If you have a teammate to Imposter-proof this set, keep it alive to protect yourself from being counterswept by Imposters. Be careful of faster attackers such as priority and Choice Scarf users, which can accumulate significant chip damage on Primal Groudon after its defenses have been lowered with Shell Smash or or V-create. Do not be afraid to switch Primal Groudon out after it sets up and KOes a Pokemon to save it for later, as its bulk, especially
Team Options
========
This Primal Groudon set
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
More offensive teams can opt for Morning Sun, which has half the PP of Shore Up but heals more HP per use. Knock Off or Poison Fang can be run to cripple common switch-ins such as Giratina, Zygarde-C, and Mega Slowbro. A Shift Gear set with Thousand Arrows, V-create, and a recovery move can sweep
Checks and Counters
===================
**Bulky Dragon-types**: Prankster variants of Giratina and Zygarde-C have enough bulk to take V-create and can use Haze to remove any Shell Smash or Download boosts Primal Groudon has accumulated. Other variants are generally safe switch-ins (RC) but can lose to Shell Smash Primal Groudon, especially with entry hazards up. Assault Vest variants of both Dragon-types can take a +2 Fleur Cannon or Ice Beam from full HP and use Spectral Thief to steal Primal Groudon's boosts. Non-Prankster Giratina may not survive +3 Precipice Blades, however.
**Strong Special Attackers**: Several faster special attackers can check unboosted Primal Groudon after it gets a KO. Kyurem-W OHKOes Primal Groudon with Refrigerate Boomburst, regardless of whether or not the former runs a boosting item. Normalize Mega Gengar threatens to render Primal Groudon impotent with Entrainment. Primordial Sea Ash-Greninja forces out Primal Groudon with its Water-type STAB moves.
**Imposter**: Shell Smash Primal Groudon is very vulnerable to Imposter users, and finding a Pokemon that can wall its most effective moveset is difficult. While Imposter users must
**Ground-types and Ground-type Coverage**: Defensive sets of Primal Groudon should be wary of Mega Garchomp. Mega Garchomp outspeeds Primal Groudon that has not set up and threatens defensive sets out with its Ground-type STAB moves. Its common sets also prove troublesome to many common teammates that Primal Groudon works well alongside, and it can even
**Sturdy Shedinja**: Sturdy Shedinja walls most of Primal Groudon's attacks, but Primal Groudon can use Will-O-Wisp on it and can often force Stealth Rock up against Shedinja's teammates, making it difficult to switch Shedinja in. Shell Smash sets are usually helpless against Sturdy Shedinja, however.
**Other Prankster Users**: Prankster users such as Registeel and Aegislash can threaten to trade themselves for Shell Smash Primal Groudon with Destiny Bond, but defensive sets can just use these passive walls as opportunities to set up Stealth Rock or use Will-O-Wisp.
**Fire-immune Steel-types**: Flash Fire Steel-types such as Registeel and Ferrothorn can be very annoying to defensive Primal Groudon sets. Given a safe switch, they can recover any damage done to them and proceed to trap Primal Groudon. However, they risk losing to Precipice Blades and Shell Smash variants. Primordial Sea Celesteela works similarly, but it fears Thousand Arrows and Shell Smash-boosted Power Trip.
[CREDITS]
- Written by: [SuperSkylake, 323219]
- Quality checked by: [[Electrolyte, 148072], [GL Volkner, 330455], [Chessking345, 355040]]
- Grammar checked by: [[bigtalk, 466663]]
SuperSkylake heyo pls implement this in the next 24 hours
Hey, really apologize for having to drop the ball on this, i am experiencing some life issues and I don't think I can finish this up in 24 h. The gp check looks pretty small this time around, but it's slower going with my screen reader since I can't see the bold text as easily for me.
I can handle this.