Hi guys.
Some notes:
[Overview]
<p>Kingdra has often been bashed in past generations due to his poor movepool; however, DPP has given an array of blessings to the seahorse, including incredible new options such as Outrage. While Kingdra's movepool still isn't anything to write home about, he can do a lot with what he has. Kingdra has changed from quite the mundane sweeper to a Pokemon that many teams will have significant problems with.</p>
[SET]
name: Substitute + Dragon Dance
move 1: Dragon Dance
move 2: Waterfall
move 3: Outrage
move 4: Substitute
item: Leftovers / Lum Berry
nature: Adamant
evs: 120 HP / 224 Atk / 164 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>With two physical STAB options to go with Dragon Dance, Kingdra is a fearsome foe with nearly perfect type coverage provided by Waterfall and Outrage (resisted only by Empoleon and Shedinja). Kingdra can use his unique typing to set up on opposing Pokemon that are unable to do significant damage to him, such as Starmie, Heatran, and Vaporeon. Substitute protects Kingdra from status moves that could otherwise ruin his sweep, and can help him set up on certain Pokémon such as Toxic Vaporeon. When using a Lum Berry, it is best to Dragon Dance the first time the foe uses a status move on Kingdra, and then use Substitute the next time to get another Dragon Dance as they hopelessly try to status Kingdra once more.</p>
<p>This Kingdra has trouble with bulky physical walls with a phazing move, such as Skarmory, Suicune, and Swampert. Magnezone can trap Skarmory who lack Shed Shell, and its powerful STAB Thunderbolt will scare off Suicune. If you pack Hidden Power Grass, it can even beat Swampert. Rotom-A also works well at warding off said Pokemon, although it cannot trap Skarmory. Celebi easily defeats Suicune with Leaf Storm or Perish Song, and it will also appreciate Kingdra's resistance to Fire-type attacks.</p>
[Additional Comments]
<p>The EVs provide enough bulk so that Choice Scarf Flygon's U-turn will fail to break Kingdra's Substitute and give enough Speed to beat said Choice Scarf Flygon after two Dragon Dances. Max Speed can also be used to guarantee you outspeed neutral natured base 80s and Gyarados. While both abilities are viable, Swift Swim is arguably the better option due to the ability to take advantage of opposing Rain Dance teams. Most Pokemon on Rain Dance teams are slower than Kingdra, so Outrage can rip through these teams once Steel-types are removed.</p>
<p>Celebi can do a decent job against Kingdra because of its bulk, but Substitute will block Thunder Wave, so it must be careful it doesn’t give Kingdra too many free Dragon Dances. Some good options for dealing with Celebi are Scizor and Tyranitar. Specially defensive versions are the best ways to defeat Celebi, as this almost always ensures Scizor will survive Hidden Power Fire, and will make it easier for Tyranitar to take Grass Knot. They both have super effective moves at their disposal to take out Celebi, and even switching out is not an option for Celebi, as it might take lethal damage from Pursuit.</p>
<p>Faster Choice Scarf users such as Flygon, and Naive Heatran can cause Kingdra problems since they are able to revenge kill him if he only has one Dragon Dance and isn't behind a Substitute. Scizor and Tyranitar can trap Starmie by using Pursuit totake it out. Having a Steel-type on your team can help in taking an Outrage from Flygon or a Dragon Pulse from Heatran. Heatran is probably your best bet for countering opposing Heatran since it only fears Earth Power, while you can revenge kill it with your own Earth Power. Heatran can also revenge kill Flygon locked into Outrage with Dragon Pulse. You must also be wary of Steel-types switching into Outrage to revenge kill Kingdra. It is therefore useful to have Magnezone on your team, ideally with a Choice Scarf, as it can trap and kill most Steel-types thanks to Magnet Pull. Toxic Spikes support from Roserade can be useful as it allows Kingdra to have an easier time with bulkier Pokemon such as Celebi, Suicune, Swampert, and Vaporeon. Roserade can also absorb your opponent's Toxic Spikes, since if Kingdra is afflicted then his sweeping time is severely limited.</p>
[SET]
name: Rain Dance (Mixed)
move 1: Rain Dance
move 2: Waterfall
move 3: Hydro Pump / Surf
move 4: Draco Meteor
item: Life Orb
ability: Swift Swim
nature: Rash / Mild
evs: 208 Atk / 136 SpA / 164 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This set is arguably Kingdra's most destructive set, capable of smashing through even the game's most defensive Pokémon. It can work very well outside of Rain Dance teams, but generally is best used with rain support from its teammates. Hydro Pump is the real selling point of the set, as it significantly out-damages Waterfall and demolishes the physically based OU metagame. Surf can be used, but it doesn't pack the power that Hydro Pump does. Draco Meteor rounds out the set by allowing Kingdra to deliver a powerful hit to Grass-types and opposing Water-type Pokémon that resist his Water-type STAB. On Rain Dance teams, though, you will have other Pokemon to set up Rain Dance so you do not need it on Kingdra. Signal Beam is therefore a great alternative to hit Celebi hard, KOing after it switches into Hydro Pump or Waterfall. Hidden Power Electric is an even lesser option, but it does get a 2HKO on offensive Empoleon as well as a guaranteed OHKO on Gyarados every time with Stealth Rock support.</p>
[Additional Comments]
<p>The EVs generate enough Speed to outrun Jolly Choice Scarf Jirachi and Flygon in the rain. The chosen natures are chosen in order to not drop Kingdra's Attack or Special Attack, but which defense stat to drop is up to you. Life Orb is the obvious item as without it, Kingdra wouldn't have the destructive power it is used for.</p>
<p>To illustrate the raw power of Mixed Kingdra, a few damage calculations have been listed below:</p>
<h3>Damage Calculations</h3>
<ul class="damage_calculation">
<li>Waterfall vs. Max Def Blissey: 61% - 73%</li>
<li>Waterfall vs. Max HP Bronzong: 54-64%</li>
<li>Hydro Pump vs. Max HP / 98 SpD Bronzong: 72-85%</li>
<li>Hydro Pump vs. Max HP Celebi: 38-45%</li>
<li>Draco Meteor vs. Max HP Celebi: 59-69%</li>
<li>Hydro Pump vs. Max HP / Max SpD+ Forretress: 85-100%</li>
<li>Draco Meteor vs. 216 HP Gyarados: 62-73%</li>
<li>Hydro Pump vs. Max HP Jirachi: 76-89%</li>
<li>Hydro Pump vs. Max HP Metagross: 91-100%</li>
<li>Hydro Pump vs. Max HP Skarmory: 100%</li>
<li>Waterfall vs. 160 HP / 136 Def Snorlax: 60-71%</li>
<li>Hydro Pump vs. Max HP Suicune: 34-39%</li>
<li>Draco Meteor vs. Max HP Suicune: 52-62%</li>
<li>Hydro Pump vs. 240 HP Swampert: 82-98%</li>
<li>Hydro Pump vs. Max HP Scizor: 100%</li>
</ul>
<p>Stealth Rock support is incredibly useful to this set as it provides it with a much better chance of attaining notable OHKOs. Azelf, Bronzong, Jirachi, and Swampert are the best options on Rain Dance teams as they all can all provide both Rain Dance and Stealth Rock. The same Pokemon can also do well outside of Rain Dance partners teams, though Swampert is not recommended in this case due to similar typing.</p>
<p>Toxic Spikes wreck this set, so having a Rapid Spinner such as Starmie can be useful to get rid of them. Qwilfish and Roserade can absorb Toxic Spikes, and Roserade can set up his own to help against the bulky Water-types and Celebi. Both can also set up Rain Dance. Qwilfish can make a deadly partner thanks to Swords Danced Waterfalls ripping through much of OU, and a well-timed Explosion on one of Kingdra's counters could prove useful.</p>
<p>Celebi, Empoleon, Gyarados, Tentacruel, and most bulky Water-types can make good counters, although Hydro Pump + Draco Meteor can 2HKO many of them. Celebi must watch out for Signal Beam as well; after a Hydro Pump or Waterfall, it will KO. Fast Choice Scarf users such as Flygon are good revenge killers. Scizor and Skarmory can make good partners, as they are are the best options to deal with Flygon. Other Steel-types can also take out Flygon locked into Outrage, and ones with Rain Dance will be especially helpful. Tyranitar and Abomasnow also do well against Kingdra by taking away its precious rain, and although Tyranitar is weak to Water-type moves, it won’t be OHKOed and can OHKO in return with a Choice Band Stone Edge. Abomasnow resists Water-type moves and can survive Draco Meteor thanks to its solid Special Defense. Blizzard will also badly hurt Kingdra, or Abomasnow could SubSeed stall him. Scizor therefore makes a great partner again to deal with them thanks to its STAB, Technician-boosted Bullet Punch. Choice Band Dugtrio can trap and OHKO Tyranitar with Earthquake, and finish off a weakened Abomasnow with Stone Edge.</p>
[SET]
name: Mixed Dragon Dance
move 1: Dragon Dance
move 2: Waterfall
move 3: Outrage
move 4: Ice Beam / Hydro Pump
item: Life Orb
nature: Naughty / Naive
evs: 252 Atk / 24 SpA / 232 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This set takes a more offensive approach than the former set. Kingdra retains its two physical STAB options, Waterfall and Outrage, but also carries a special attack to hit physical walls harder. The big difference is that with Life Orb, Kingdra can effectively utilize Hydro Pump to 2HKO Skarmory or Ice Beam to take out opposing Dragon-type Pokémon without needlessly locking itself into Outrage. Electric-types such as Jolteon, Rotom-A, and Magnezone work well alongside Kingdra, able to force out enemy bulky Water-types. Jolteon and Rotom-A make fairly good counters to Celebi, due to Grass Knot having a pathetic base power against the pair. If Jolteon can switch in safely, Shadow Ball will badly hurt Celebi. By trapping Steel-types with Magnezone, Kingdra doesn't have to worry as much about locking itself into Outrage. Said Pokemon also come in handy when using Ice Beam over Hydro Pump, as Skarmory once again becomes an issue.</p>
[Additional Comments]
<p>The given Speed EVs give Kingdra a stat of 264, enough to outrun base 130 Speed Pokémon after a Dragon Dance. After this, Attack is maximized and the remaining EVs put into Special Attack. Swift Swim is arguably the preferred ability since you can take advantage of opposing Rain Dance teams. This Kingdra can actually be a very good sweeper in a Rain Dance team; with doubled Speed and boosted Water-type attacks, it will be an absolute terror. Hydro Pump would be the best option in that case.</p>
<p>Similar to the Substitute Dragon Dance set, fast Choice Scarf users are an annoyance unless you pack Rain Dance support. Scizor and Tyranitar can trap and kill Choice Scarf Gengar and Starmie with Pursuit and Steel-types can switch into Choice Scarf Flygon's Outrage and take it out with an appropriate move. Toxic Spikes can drastically hinder Kingdra, and therefore a Rapid Spinner or Poison-type to remove them is a good option. Roserade can do well, since he can also incapacitate a Pokémon with Sleep Powder, and set up his own Toxic Spikes to give Kingdra an easier time with bulky Water-types and Celebi. Starmie can work here as well with Rapid Spin. A Life Orb Starmie may also lure in Celebi, Suicune, and Rotom-A to be severely weakened by the appropriate move.</p>
[SET]
name: Rain Dance (Special)
move 1: Rain Dance
move 2: Surf / Hydro Pump
move 3: Dragon Pulse
move 4: Signal Beam / Hidden Power Electric
item: Life Orb
ability: Swift Swim
nature: Modest
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This is a purely special rain sweeper. It can't hurt Blissey much, but this set has some advantages over the mixed version. You don't need Attack EVs, so you can max out Speed, making revenge killing Kingdra a much harder task. Hydro Pump can be used for some extra power (since it OHKOes Swampert and Metagross), but Surf's reliability makes it the better choice. Signal Beam may seem a bit specific, but scores some nice KOs against Celebi and Abomasnow after Stealth Rock. Hidden Power Electric is an alternative option if you don't particularly fear the aforementioned Grass-type Pokémon in order to hit Empoleon; it 2HKOes offensive versions, and does slightly more damage to other Water-types in comparison to STAB Dragon Pulse (140 vs. 135).</p>
[Additional Comments]
<p>Maximum Speed is used because winning the Speed tie with opposing Kingdra can be game-changing. Kingdra also outspeeds all common Choice Scarf users with support from the rain. Maximum Special Attack is obvious for hitting as hard as possible. If you prefer, an alternative bulkier EV spread of 92 HP / 252 SpA / 164 Spe can be used instead. These EVs generate 247 Speed, which allows Kingdra to outspeed Jolly Tyranitar before it uses Rain Dance, and positive natured Scarfed base 100s while it's raining. Life Orb is used for the power boost, which makes Surf a very deadly attack. You could use Damp Rock, but generally this Kingdra should be sweeping, not supporting.</p>
<p>Similar to the Mixed Rain Dance set, Stealth Rock support is recommended. Azelf, Bronzong, Jirachi, and Swampert are the best options for this Kingdra on Rain Dance teams. Toxic Spikes are problematic for this set, so a Rapid Spinner such as Starmie helps. Qwilfish and Roserade can absorb Toxic Spikes, and Roserade can set up his own to help against the bulky Water-types and Celebi. Qwilfish also makes a deadly Rain Dance sweeper, so it makes a nice partner.</p>
<p>This set is a lot harder to revenge kill, but there are still many Pokémon that cause it problems. Bulky Water-types (aside from Swampert) can counter this set well, as even Hidden Power Electric won’t 2HKO most of them. Ludicolo therefore makes an amazing partner to this Kingdra on Rain Dance teams because of its powerful STAB Grass-type attacks. Jolteon, Rotom-W, and Zapdos can also do well against the aforementioned Pokémon. This set also has trouble against special walls such as Blissey and Snorlax; Choice Band Dugtrio can therefore make a nice partner to trap and 2HKO Blissey, as well as finishing off weakened Snorlax. Scizor is also an option, as Superpower takes care of Blissey and Snorlax. It can also do well against Tyranitar and Abomasnow, whose abilities remove the rain.</p>
[SET]
name: Double Dance
move 1: Waterfall
move 2: Outrage
move 3: Rain Dance
move 4: Dragon Dance
item: Leftovers
ability: Swift Swim
nature: Adamant
evs: 180 HP / 252 Atk / 76 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>The strategy on this set is to use Rain Dance first. Since Waterfall is your main attack, this is the equivalent of the boost from Dragon Dance, but it immediately doubles Kingdra's Speed to outpace many Choice Scarf revenge killers. Rain Dance also clears other weather effects, thereby bringing Leftovers into play, and offers temporary protection from Fire-type attacks for the rest of your team. You can then attack or continue to set up with Dragon Dance. After a Dragon Dance in the rain you are playing with +3 Speed and a +2 Waterfall, able to crush offensive teams. Even Choice Scarf Flygon will fail to outspeed with rain falling from the sky if you have a Dragon Dance. Unlike the usual Dragon Dancer, Kingdra can also afford to invest in his Hit Points; thus improving Kingdra's survivability and increasing the chance of him getting the opportunity to set up Dragon Dance.</p>
[Additional Comments]
<p>224 Speed beats bulky Gyarados and Adamant Tyranitar outright. It also allows Kingdra to outrun base 100s after Dragon Dance, as well as neutral Choice Scarf base 100s after Rain Dance. The remaining EVs allow Kingdra to hit 336 HP (a Leftovers threshold). Four Attack EVs can be moved to HP to allow Kingdra an extra turn of survival when the only damage is residual. When using Damp Rock, this Leftovers threshold isn’t important so you can opt for more Speed to outrun more threats in the rain.</p>
<p>This set has the same counters as the first set, but is slightly harder to revenge kill thanks to Rain Dance doubling its Speed. Empoleon, Skarmory and Suicune are all good counters, and can phaze it out before Kingdra gets a chance to Dragon Dance. When using this on a Rain Dance team, Ludicolo can be a great partner to deal with most of these threats, thanks to STAB Grass-type attacks and a powerful Surf to hit Skarmory. Ludicolo will also outspeed and 2HKO offensive +2 Speed Empoleon with either Energy Ball or Grass Knot. Outside of Rain Dance, powerful Electric-types such as Jolteon and Rotom-A can scare the aforementioned Pokémon off. Jolteon needs Hidden Power Grass for Swampert, though, and is very fragile so it can't switch in directly. Rotom-A, however, can do very well. Rotom-C stands out as an exceptional choice, since Swampert is OHKOed by Leaf Storm. Celebi can make a nice partner for dealing with bulky Water-types thanks to STAB Grass-type attacks and solid defenses.</p>
<p>Scizor can do well on Rain Dance teams, as it can deal with many problem Pokémon such as Abomasnow and Tyranitar. Roserade and Starmie can make nice partners for getting rid of Toxic Spikes. Bulky Steel-type Pokemon such as Bronzong, Jirachi, and Magnezone all make good partners. They can set up Rain Dance should you use Kingdra on a Rain Dance team, take the Dragon-type moves aimed at Kingdra, and also set up Stealth Rock in Bronzong and Jirachi’s case.</p>
[SET]
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Draco Meteor
move 2: Hydro Pump
move 3: Surf
move 4: Dragon Pulse
item: Choice Specs
nature: Timid
evs: 32 HP / 252 SpA / 224 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Kingdra's Dragon-type and Water-type STAB core form a nearly perfect combination, so there are no reasons to use any other attacks for this set. The idea is to come in on predicted non-damaging support moves, or Fire- and Water-type attacks, and unleash pain on your opponent. Draco Meteor and Hydro Pump are good early game moves for tearing holes in the opposing team, while Surf and Dragon Pulse are better used for sweeping lategame since they have decent power and perfect accuracy.</p>
<p>With four STAB moves, it is important to know when it is appropriate to use each attack. The choice for which move to use depends mainly on what Kingdra switches into. For example, if Kingdra switches in on a Heatran's Fire Blast early in the game, Draco Meteor is the best option to use as it will beat Naive Choice Scarf Heatran whether they switch or not, and will maim an incoming Water-type resist. Later in the game, Surf and Hydro Pump are generally safer options because most Water-type resists are Water-type Pokémon and do not threaten Kingdra directly.</p>
[Additional Comments]
<p>The EVs on the set allow Kingdra to outspeed Adamant Lucario, Jolly Mamoswine, and Jolly Gyarados before a Dragon Dance, which gives Kingdra a chance to defeat them before they wreak havoc. It is important to note that the preferred ability on this set is Swift Swim, because a Timid Kingdra with 286 Speed outspeeds everything commonly seen on a Rain Dance team, and other Kingdra almost never run Speed boosting natures. A Modest nature can be used instead to achieve more power.</p>
<p>Like any offensive Pokemon, Kingdra will appreciate residual damage to secure more KOs. However, Specs Kingdra is more of a supporter for the team, as it offers a very sturdy resist to Fire- and Water-type attacks and the power to retaliate against many Pokemon that carry those moves. Therefore, pairing Kingdra with Pokémon that have weaknesses to these types will allow more opportunities for Kingdra to switch in and fire off attacks. One thing to note is that Kingdra is susceptible to Toxic Spikes and neutral to Stealth Rock, so a grounded Poison-type or a Rapid Spinner will increase thenumber of times Kingdra will enter the field to do damage.</p>
[SET]
name: Rest Talk + Dragon Dance
move 1: Outrage
move 2: Dragon Dance
move 3: Rest
move 4: Sleep Talk
Item: Leftovers
nature: Adamant
evs: 252 HP / 96 Atk / 160 SpD
[Set Comments]
<p>While Kingdra lacks any form of recovery outside of Rest, his excellent typing and respectable 75/95/95 defenses make him a great status absorber and offensive tank. Unlike other Kingdra sets, this one can actually switch in multiple times throughout the match without worrying too much about taking damage and status effects. People are often even thrown off-guard by Rest, since some just aim at weakening Kingdra to the point of revenge killing with a priority attacker - a strategy that will lead straight to their demise against this set.</p>
<p>Typically, this Kingdra will be able to Dragon Dance a few times then Rest off the damage before using Outrage. Sleep Talk remedies the issue of being locked into Outrage (assuming Outrage is selected while sleeping), and thus makes Outrage the superior choice over Waterfall as Kingdra's STAB attack. Outrage also has the advantage of not being walled completely by the likes of Vaporeon, or other Pokemon immune to Water-type attacks, and allows Kingdra to hit Dragon-types for super effective damage.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>This Kingdra's main purpose on a team is to act as a pseudo-counter to many common Pokemon while still maintaining an offensive momentum. It makes a great addition to any balanced team, particularly those that carry Pokémon to beat common phazers and stall (which are this set's downfall). This set is usually better suited as an early- to mid-game sweeper as it tends to outlive most of its counters in the long run and will have multiple opportunities to switch in. Unfortunately, being countered by common OU Pokemon like Scizor and Metagross tends to hinder Kingdra's effectiveness.</p>
<p>Using an EV spread of 252 HP / 96 Atk / 160 SpD will allow Kingdra to shrug off Special Attacks directed at him and easily set up on defensive Pokemon such as Celebi, Swampert, physical Jirachi, Vaporeon, Suicune, Hippowdon, Blissey, and Dusknoir. Life Orb Starmie can only 4HKO this set, turning a powerful sweeper into set up fodder. Despite these advantages, it may be worthwhile to use a more offensive spread; if you decide to go this route, using an EV spread of 244 HP / 112 Atk / 152 Spe with an Adamant nature is recommended. This grants Kingdra the ability to outrun Choice Scarf Tyranitar after one Dragon Dance and gives him a Leftovers number.</p>
<p>This set benefits from partners who can switch in on the Steel-type Pokemonwhom Kingdra has trouble against, particularly Metagross, Scizor, and Skarmory. Rotom-A makes a decent partner to this set for its ability to take on all three of the noted Pokemon. Unless they switch in on Superpower or Earthquake respectively, Heatran and Infernape can threaten all three Pokemon listed; Kingdra in turn can switch in on many Ground- and Water-type attacks that threaten these Pokemon. Thanks to Magnet Pull and a resistance to Dragon-type attacks, Magnezone is one of the best partners for Kingdra. However, care must be taken to make sure Magnezone doesn't switch in on a Scizor U-turn or Metagross Earthquake.</p>
<p>Having a Steel-type Pokemon of your own to switch in on Dragon-type attacks from Dragonite or Choice Scarf Flygon is also a good idea. Scizor can switch in on all of the aforementioned Dragons, take a Dragon-type attack, and hit them with Bullet Punch. Choice Band Scizor works best as it can Pursuit Starmie and Celebi on the switch and tends to attract Fire- and Water-type Pokemon who Kingdra can set up on.</p>
[Team Options]
<p>Stealth Rock support is very useful for all sets, especially the Rain Dance ones. Azelf, Bronzong, Jirachi, and Swampert are the best options to set it up on Rain Dance teams. As for non-Rain Dance ones, Azelf can still do well as it provides a nice quick Stealth Rock, and possibly also dual screens to help it Dragon Dance up. Heatran is a good choice because of its useful synergy with Kingdra, resisting its Dragon-type weakness, while Kingdra resists Heatran’s Water-type weakness. Toxic Spikes support is very useful for Dragon Dance sets in dealing with Celebi and bulky Water-types. Roserade is the best option for this, as it will appreciate the Fire-type resistance, and makes a nice lead to quickly set it up and possibly incapacitate an opponent's Pokemon. Tentacruel and Forretress can also set them up, but Tentacruel's similar typing to Kingdra makes it a lesser option, and Forretress is generally better on more defensive teams. Rain Dance support is almost a requirement for mixed and special Rain Dance sets, as they work best on Rain Dance teams, but can also be useful for the Double Dance and 3 Attack Dragon Dance sets. Bronzong, Jirachi, Magnezone, and Scizor are the best options for Rain Dance support Pokémon in this case, due to resisting Kingdra’s only weakness. Bronzong, Cresselia, and Magnezone are other good options. Magnezone can easily set Rain Dance up on a Choice-locked Scizor's Bullet Punch and other moves, while Bronzong and Cresselia are very bulky, so, barring Taunt, should be able to get up both. Cresselia can also provide Lunar Dance support to give a weakened Kingdra another chance to sweep.</p>
<p>For offensive support Pokémon, Ludicolo is the best option on Rain Dance teams, as it deals with the bulky Water-types that Kingdra hates. Kabutops and Qwilfish are other good partners on Rain Dance teams for ripping through your opponent’s team to create holes for Kingdra to abuse. Rotom formes make nice partners as they deal with bulky Water-types. Rotom-C can also scare off Swampert with Leaf Storm, while on Rain Dance teams, Rotom-W can abuse a powerful STAB 100% accurate Thunder and boosted Hydro Pump, making them effective offensive partners. Jolteon is another Electric-type who can scare off bulky Water-types and has Hidden Power Grass for Swampert. Scizor and Tyranitar are other good offensive partners, as Pursuit is a great tool to deal with many of Kingdra's counters and checks such as Celebi. Mixed Dragonite is a great partner for luring and taking out Skarmory, possibly Celebi, as well as Rotom-A.</p>
<p>For defensive support Pokémon, Steel-types are best, as they cover Kingdra's Dragon-type weakness. The best examples are Bronzong, Heatran, Jirachi, Magnezone, Metagross, and Scizor. Most of them can also provide Rain Dance support should you be using Kingdra on a Rain Dance team. Celebi makes a nice partner as it can also deal with bulky Water-types, and it will appreciate the Fire-type resistance. Add in Heatran and you can have a nice defensive combo; each of their weaknesses are covered by one another.</p>
[Optional Changes]
<p>Although only a minor option, Yawn can replace Substitute on the first set, as Yawning your opponent's first switch-in can result in forcing them to go to a Pokemon less equipped to deal with Kingdra (lest they allow their best Kingdra counter to be put to sleep). If they decide to save their Pokémon from sleep, Yawn has the added benefit of racking up residual damage on both opposing Pokemon. In addition, since their second switch-in to Kingdra will more than likely be unable to handle Kingdra to the same extent as their first, you might be able to pull off an extra Dragon Dance out of the deal.</p>
<p>Kingdra's movepool is fairly shallow and doesn't have much in the way of other options. Flail is decent if you can manage it, but good luck pulling it off with Tyranitar, priority-move users and Stealth Rock everywhere. Kingdra can run a Choice Band set, but the lack of a decent physical movepool hinders its viability.</p>
<p>Specific EVs are given for each set. Adamant, 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe is best for the Substitute Dragon Dance set, whereas Adamant, 252 Atk / 24 SpA / 232 Spe is the best option for the Dragon Dance + 3 Attacks set. Double Dance set is best with Adamant, 180 HP / 252 Atk / 76 Spe, but can use Adamant, 92 HP / 252 Atk / 164 Spe if you want to outspeed +1 positive base 100s in the rain. Mixed Rain Dance set should use Naughty, 252 Atk / 240 SpA / 16 Spe to outspeed Choice Scarf Heatran in the rain, but Naughty, 192 Atk / 240 SpA / 76 Spe is a good alternative to outspeed +1 neutral natured base 100s at the slight cost of Attack. Special Rain Dance set should use either Modest 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe or Modest, 92 HP / 252 SpA / 164 Spe for a bit more bulk. Timid, 32 HP / 252 SpA / 224 Spe can even be used for surprise factor outside of rain, as well as outspeed almost all opposing Kingdra and +2 Jolly Gyarados in the rain.</p>
[Counters]
<p>Empoleon easily walls most mixed and special Kingdra sets, fearing only the occasional Hidden Power Electric, but when it comes to the Dragon Dancer, Empoleon has to focus its EVs into Defense or it will be 2HKOed by boosted Outrages. Celebi and Tangrowth also do decently at stopping the Dragon Dancer, but still have to be wary of Life Orbed variants as Outrage can 2HKO both of them. Milotic, Ludicolo, Suicune, and Vaporeon are also effective at stopping the mixed and special sets as well due to their Water-type resistance and good Special Defense, although hits from Draco Meteor will still take their toll, while Blissey, Snorlax, and Regice will beat the special based Rain Dance set. Tyranitar and Abomasnow also can annoy the Rain Dance sets by taking away their rain and hitting back hard.</p>
Some notes:
- First two sets could use a better name
- Did not include Uber sets
- Plan to include a RestTalk + Dragon Dance set
- Is questioning the Double Dance set's effectiveness
[Overview]
<p>Kingdra has often been bashed in past generations due to his poor movepool; however, DPP has given an array of blessings to the seahorse, including incredible new options such as Outrage. While Kingdra's movepool still isn't anything to write home about, he can do a lot with what he has. Kingdra has changed from quite the mundane sweeper to a Pokemon that many teams will have significant problems with.</p>
[SET]
name: Substitute + Dragon Dance
move 1: Dragon Dance
move 2: Waterfall
move 3: Outrage
move 4: Substitute
item: Leftovers / Lum Berry
nature: Adamant
evs: 120 HP / 224 Atk / 164 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>With two physical STAB options to go with Dragon Dance, Kingdra is a fearsome foe with nearly perfect type coverage provided by Waterfall and Outrage (resisted only by Empoleon and Shedinja). Kingdra can use his unique typing to set up on opposing Pokemon that are unable to do significant damage to him, such as Starmie, Heatran, and Vaporeon. Substitute protects Kingdra from status moves that could otherwise ruin his sweep, and can help him set up on certain Pokémon such as Toxic Vaporeon. When using a Lum Berry, it is best to Dragon Dance the first time the foe uses a status move on Kingdra, and then use Substitute the next time to get another Dragon Dance as they hopelessly try to status Kingdra once more.</p>
<p>This Kingdra has trouble with bulky physical walls with a phazing move, such as Skarmory, Suicune, and Swampert. Magnezone can trap Skarmory who lack Shed Shell, and its powerful STAB Thunderbolt will scare off Suicune. If you pack Hidden Power Grass, it can even beat Swampert. Rotom-A also works well at warding off said Pokemon, although it cannot trap Skarmory. Celebi easily defeats Suicune with Leaf Storm or Perish Song, and it will also appreciate Kingdra's resistance to Fire-type attacks.</p>
[Additional Comments]
<p>The EVs provide enough bulk so that Choice Scarf Flygon's U-turn will fail to break Kingdra's Substitute and give enough Speed to beat said Choice Scarf Flygon after two Dragon Dances. Max Speed can also be used to guarantee you outspeed neutral natured base 80s and Gyarados. While both abilities are viable, Swift Swim is arguably the better option due to the ability to take advantage of opposing Rain Dance teams. Most Pokemon on Rain Dance teams are slower than Kingdra, so Outrage can rip through these teams once Steel-types are removed.</p>
<p>Celebi can do a decent job against Kingdra because of its bulk, but Substitute will block Thunder Wave, so it must be careful it doesn’t give Kingdra too many free Dragon Dances. Some good options for dealing with Celebi are Scizor and Tyranitar. Specially defensive versions are the best ways to defeat Celebi, as this almost always ensures Scizor will survive Hidden Power Fire, and will make it easier for Tyranitar to take Grass Knot. They both have super effective moves at their disposal to take out Celebi, and even switching out is not an option for Celebi, as it might take lethal damage from Pursuit.</p>
<p>Faster Choice Scarf users such as Flygon, and Naive Heatran can cause Kingdra problems since they are able to revenge kill him if he only has one Dragon Dance and isn't behind a Substitute. Scizor and Tyranitar can trap Starmie by using Pursuit totake it out. Having a Steel-type on your team can help in taking an Outrage from Flygon or a Dragon Pulse from Heatran. Heatran is probably your best bet for countering opposing Heatran since it only fears Earth Power, while you can revenge kill it with your own Earth Power. Heatran can also revenge kill Flygon locked into Outrage with Dragon Pulse. You must also be wary of Steel-types switching into Outrage to revenge kill Kingdra. It is therefore useful to have Magnezone on your team, ideally with a Choice Scarf, as it can trap and kill most Steel-types thanks to Magnet Pull. Toxic Spikes support from Roserade can be useful as it allows Kingdra to have an easier time with bulkier Pokemon such as Celebi, Suicune, Swampert, and Vaporeon. Roserade can also absorb your opponent's Toxic Spikes, since if Kingdra is afflicted then his sweeping time is severely limited.</p>
[SET]
name: Rain Dance (Mixed)
move 1: Rain Dance
move 2: Waterfall
move 3: Hydro Pump / Surf
move 4: Draco Meteor
item: Life Orb
ability: Swift Swim
nature: Rash / Mild
evs: 208 Atk / 136 SpA / 164 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This set is arguably Kingdra's most destructive set, capable of smashing through even the game's most defensive Pokémon. It can work very well outside of Rain Dance teams, but generally is best used with rain support from its teammates. Hydro Pump is the real selling point of the set, as it significantly out-damages Waterfall and demolishes the physically based OU metagame. Surf can be used, but it doesn't pack the power that Hydro Pump does. Draco Meteor rounds out the set by allowing Kingdra to deliver a powerful hit to Grass-types and opposing Water-type Pokémon that resist his Water-type STAB. On Rain Dance teams, though, you will have other Pokemon to set up Rain Dance so you do not need it on Kingdra. Signal Beam is therefore a great alternative to hit Celebi hard, KOing after it switches into Hydro Pump or Waterfall. Hidden Power Electric is an even lesser option, but it does get a 2HKO on offensive Empoleon as well as a guaranteed OHKO on Gyarados every time with Stealth Rock support.</p>
[Additional Comments]
<p>The EVs generate enough Speed to outrun Jolly Choice Scarf Jirachi and Flygon in the rain. The chosen natures are chosen in order to not drop Kingdra's Attack or Special Attack, but which defense stat to drop is up to you. Life Orb is the obvious item as without it, Kingdra wouldn't have the destructive power it is used for.</p>
<p>To illustrate the raw power of Mixed Kingdra, a few damage calculations have been listed below:</p>
<h3>Damage Calculations</h3>
<ul class="damage_calculation">
<li>Waterfall vs. Max Def Blissey: 61% - 73%</li>
<li>Waterfall vs. Max HP Bronzong: 54-64%</li>
<li>Hydro Pump vs. Max HP / 98 SpD Bronzong: 72-85%</li>
<li>Hydro Pump vs. Max HP Celebi: 38-45%</li>
<li>Draco Meteor vs. Max HP Celebi: 59-69%</li>
<li>Hydro Pump vs. Max HP / Max SpD+ Forretress: 85-100%</li>
<li>Draco Meteor vs. 216 HP Gyarados: 62-73%</li>
<li>Hydro Pump vs. Max HP Jirachi: 76-89%</li>
<li>Hydro Pump vs. Max HP Metagross: 91-100%</li>
<li>Hydro Pump vs. Max HP Skarmory: 100%</li>
<li>Waterfall vs. 160 HP / 136 Def Snorlax: 60-71%</li>
<li>Hydro Pump vs. Max HP Suicune: 34-39%</li>
<li>Draco Meteor vs. Max HP Suicune: 52-62%</li>
<li>Hydro Pump vs. 240 HP Swampert: 82-98%</li>
<li>Hydro Pump vs. Max HP Scizor: 100%</li>
</ul>
<p>Stealth Rock support is incredibly useful to this set as it provides it with a much better chance of attaining notable OHKOs. Azelf, Bronzong, Jirachi, and Swampert are the best options on Rain Dance teams as they all can all provide both Rain Dance and Stealth Rock. The same Pokemon can also do well outside of Rain Dance partners teams, though Swampert is not recommended in this case due to similar typing.</p>
<p>Toxic Spikes wreck this set, so having a Rapid Spinner such as Starmie can be useful to get rid of them. Qwilfish and Roserade can absorb Toxic Spikes, and Roserade can set up his own to help against the bulky Water-types and Celebi. Both can also set up Rain Dance. Qwilfish can make a deadly partner thanks to Swords Danced Waterfalls ripping through much of OU, and a well-timed Explosion on one of Kingdra's counters could prove useful.</p>
<p>Celebi, Empoleon, Gyarados, Tentacruel, and most bulky Water-types can make good counters, although Hydro Pump + Draco Meteor can 2HKO many of them. Celebi must watch out for Signal Beam as well; after a Hydro Pump or Waterfall, it will KO. Fast Choice Scarf users such as Flygon are good revenge killers. Scizor and Skarmory can make good partners, as they are are the best options to deal with Flygon. Other Steel-types can also take out Flygon locked into Outrage, and ones with Rain Dance will be especially helpful. Tyranitar and Abomasnow also do well against Kingdra by taking away its precious rain, and although Tyranitar is weak to Water-type moves, it won’t be OHKOed and can OHKO in return with a Choice Band Stone Edge. Abomasnow resists Water-type moves and can survive Draco Meteor thanks to its solid Special Defense. Blizzard will also badly hurt Kingdra, or Abomasnow could SubSeed stall him. Scizor therefore makes a great partner again to deal with them thanks to its STAB, Technician-boosted Bullet Punch. Choice Band Dugtrio can trap and OHKO Tyranitar with Earthquake, and finish off a weakened Abomasnow with Stone Edge.</p>
[SET]
name: Mixed Dragon Dance
move 1: Dragon Dance
move 2: Waterfall
move 3: Outrage
move 4: Ice Beam / Hydro Pump
item: Life Orb
nature: Naughty / Naive
evs: 252 Atk / 24 SpA / 232 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This set takes a more offensive approach than the former set. Kingdra retains its two physical STAB options, Waterfall and Outrage, but also carries a special attack to hit physical walls harder. The big difference is that with Life Orb, Kingdra can effectively utilize Hydro Pump to 2HKO Skarmory or Ice Beam to take out opposing Dragon-type Pokémon without needlessly locking itself into Outrage. Electric-types such as Jolteon, Rotom-A, and Magnezone work well alongside Kingdra, able to force out enemy bulky Water-types. Jolteon and Rotom-A make fairly good counters to Celebi, due to Grass Knot having a pathetic base power against the pair. If Jolteon can switch in safely, Shadow Ball will badly hurt Celebi. By trapping Steel-types with Magnezone, Kingdra doesn't have to worry as much about locking itself into Outrage. Said Pokemon also come in handy when using Ice Beam over Hydro Pump, as Skarmory once again becomes an issue.</p>
[Additional Comments]
<p>The given Speed EVs give Kingdra a stat of 264, enough to outrun base 130 Speed Pokémon after a Dragon Dance. After this, Attack is maximized and the remaining EVs put into Special Attack. Swift Swim is arguably the preferred ability since you can take advantage of opposing Rain Dance teams. This Kingdra can actually be a very good sweeper in a Rain Dance team; with doubled Speed and boosted Water-type attacks, it will be an absolute terror. Hydro Pump would be the best option in that case.</p>
<p>Similar to the Substitute Dragon Dance set, fast Choice Scarf users are an annoyance unless you pack Rain Dance support. Scizor and Tyranitar can trap and kill Choice Scarf Gengar and Starmie with Pursuit and Steel-types can switch into Choice Scarf Flygon's Outrage and take it out with an appropriate move. Toxic Spikes can drastically hinder Kingdra, and therefore a Rapid Spinner or Poison-type to remove them is a good option. Roserade can do well, since he can also incapacitate a Pokémon with Sleep Powder, and set up his own Toxic Spikes to give Kingdra an easier time with bulky Water-types and Celebi. Starmie can work here as well with Rapid Spin. A Life Orb Starmie may also lure in Celebi, Suicune, and Rotom-A to be severely weakened by the appropriate move.</p>
[SET]
name: Rain Dance (Special)
move 1: Rain Dance
move 2: Surf / Hydro Pump
move 3: Dragon Pulse
move 4: Signal Beam / Hidden Power Electric
item: Life Orb
ability: Swift Swim
nature: Modest
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This is a purely special rain sweeper. It can't hurt Blissey much, but this set has some advantages over the mixed version. You don't need Attack EVs, so you can max out Speed, making revenge killing Kingdra a much harder task. Hydro Pump can be used for some extra power (since it OHKOes Swampert and Metagross), but Surf's reliability makes it the better choice. Signal Beam may seem a bit specific, but scores some nice KOs against Celebi and Abomasnow after Stealth Rock. Hidden Power Electric is an alternative option if you don't particularly fear the aforementioned Grass-type Pokémon in order to hit Empoleon; it 2HKOes offensive versions, and does slightly more damage to other Water-types in comparison to STAB Dragon Pulse (140 vs. 135).</p>
[Additional Comments]
<p>Maximum Speed is used because winning the Speed tie with opposing Kingdra can be game-changing. Kingdra also outspeeds all common Choice Scarf users with support from the rain. Maximum Special Attack is obvious for hitting as hard as possible. If you prefer, an alternative bulkier EV spread of 92 HP / 252 SpA / 164 Spe can be used instead. These EVs generate 247 Speed, which allows Kingdra to outspeed Jolly Tyranitar before it uses Rain Dance, and positive natured Scarfed base 100s while it's raining. Life Orb is used for the power boost, which makes Surf a very deadly attack. You could use Damp Rock, but generally this Kingdra should be sweeping, not supporting.</p>
<p>Similar to the Mixed Rain Dance set, Stealth Rock support is recommended. Azelf, Bronzong, Jirachi, and Swampert are the best options for this Kingdra on Rain Dance teams. Toxic Spikes are problematic for this set, so a Rapid Spinner such as Starmie helps. Qwilfish and Roserade can absorb Toxic Spikes, and Roserade can set up his own to help against the bulky Water-types and Celebi. Qwilfish also makes a deadly Rain Dance sweeper, so it makes a nice partner.</p>
<p>This set is a lot harder to revenge kill, but there are still many Pokémon that cause it problems. Bulky Water-types (aside from Swampert) can counter this set well, as even Hidden Power Electric won’t 2HKO most of them. Ludicolo therefore makes an amazing partner to this Kingdra on Rain Dance teams because of its powerful STAB Grass-type attacks. Jolteon, Rotom-W, and Zapdos can also do well against the aforementioned Pokémon. This set also has trouble against special walls such as Blissey and Snorlax; Choice Band Dugtrio can therefore make a nice partner to trap and 2HKO Blissey, as well as finishing off weakened Snorlax. Scizor is also an option, as Superpower takes care of Blissey and Snorlax. It can also do well against Tyranitar and Abomasnow, whose abilities remove the rain.</p>
[SET]
name: Double Dance
move 1: Waterfall
move 2: Outrage
move 3: Rain Dance
move 4: Dragon Dance
item: Leftovers
ability: Swift Swim
nature: Adamant
evs: 180 HP / 252 Atk / 76 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>The strategy on this set is to use Rain Dance first. Since Waterfall is your main attack, this is the equivalent of the boost from Dragon Dance, but it immediately doubles Kingdra's Speed to outpace many Choice Scarf revenge killers. Rain Dance also clears other weather effects, thereby bringing Leftovers into play, and offers temporary protection from Fire-type attacks for the rest of your team. You can then attack or continue to set up with Dragon Dance. After a Dragon Dance in the rain you are playing with +3 Speed and a +2 Waterfall, able to crush offensive teams. Even Choice Scarf Flygon will fail to outspeed with rain falling from the sky if you have a Dragon Dance. Unlike the usual Dragon Dancer, Kingdra can also afford to invest in his Hit Points; thus improving Kingdra's survivability and increasing the chance of him getting the opportunity to set up Dragon Dance.</p>
[Additional Comments]
<p>224 Speed beats bulky Gyarados and Adamant Tyranitar outright. It also allows Kingdra to outrun base 100s after Dragon Dance, as well as neutral Choice Scarf base 100s after Rain Dance. The remaining EVs allow Kingdra to hit 336 HP (a Leftovers threshold). Four Attack EVs can be moved to HP to allow Kingdra an extra turn of survival when the only damage is residual. When using Damp Rock, this Leftovers threshold isn’t important so you can opt for more Speed to outrun more threats in the rain.</p>
<p>This set has the same counters as the first set, but is slightly harder to revenge kill thanks to Rain Dance doubling its Speed. Empoleon, Skarmory and Suicune are all good counters, and can phaze it out before Kingdra gets a chance to Dragon Dance. When using this on a Rain Dance team, Ludicolo can be a great partner to deal with most of these threats, thanks to STAB Grass-type attacks and a powerful Surf to hit Skarmory. Ludicolo will also outspeed and 2HKO offensive +2 Speed Empoleon with either Energy Ball or Grass Knot. Outside of Rain Dance, powerful Electric-types such as Jolteon and Rotom-A can scare the aforementioned Pokémon off. Jolteon needs Hidden Power Grass for Swampert, though, and is very fragile so it can't switch in directly. Rotom-A, however, can do very well. Rotom-C stands out as an exceptional choice, since Swampert is OHKOed by Leaf Storm. Celebi can make a nice partner for dealing with bulky Water-types thanks to STAB Grass-type attacks and solid defenses.</p>
<p>Scizor can do well on Rain Dance teams, as it can deal with many problem Pokémon such as Abomasnow and Tyranitar. Roserade and Starmie can make nice partners for getting rid of Toxic Spikes. Bulky Steel-type Pokemon such as Bronzong, Jirachi, and Magnezone all make good partners. They can set up Rain Dance should you use Kingdra on a Rain Dance team, take the Dragon-type moves aimed at Kingdra, and also set up Stealth Rock in Bronzong and Jirachi’s case.</p>
[SET]
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Draco Meteor
move 2: Hydro Pump
move 3: Surf
move 4: Dragon Pulse
item: Choice Specs
nature: Timid
evs: 32 HP / 252 SpA / 224 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Kingdra's Dragon-type and Water-type STAB core form a nearly perfect combination, so there are no reasons to use any other attacks for this set. The idea is to come in on predicted non-damaging support moves, or Fire- and Water-type attacks, and unleash pain on your opponent. Draco Meteor and Hydro Pump are good early game moves for tearing holes in the opposing team, while Surf and Dragon Pulse are better used for sweeping lategame since they have decent power and perfect accuracy.</p>
<p>With four STAB moves, it is important to know when it is appropriate to use each attack. The choice for which move to use depends mainly on what Kingdra switches into. For example, if Kingdra switches in on a Heatran's Fire Blast early in the game, Draco Meteor is the best option to use as it will beat Naive Choice Scarf Heatran whether they switch or not, and will maim an incoming Water-type resist. Later in the game, Surf and Hydro Pump are generally safer options because most Water-type resists are Water-type Pokémon and do not threaten Kingdra directly.</p>
[Additional Comments]
<p>The EVs on the set allow Kingdra to outspeed Adamant Lucario, Jolly Mamoswine, and Jolly Gyarados before a Dragon Dance, which gives Kingdra a chance to defeat them before they wreak havoc. It is important to note that the preferred ability on this set is Swift Swim, because a Timid Kingdra with 286 Speed outspeeds everything commonly seen on a Rain Dance team, and other Kingdra almost never run Speed boosting natures. A Modest nature can be used instead to achieve more power.</p>
<p>Like any offensive Pokemon, Kingdra will appreciate residual damage to secure more KOs. However, Specs Kingdra is more of a supporter for the team, as it offers a very sturdy resist to Fire- and Water-type attacks and the power to retaliate against many Pokemon that carry those moves. Therefore, pairing Kingdra with Pokémon that have weaknesses to these types will allow more opportunities for Kingdra to switch in and fire off attacks. One thing to note is that Kingdra is susceptible to Toxic Spikes and neutral to Stealth Rock, so a grounded Poison-type or a Rapid Spinner will increase thenumber of times Kingdra will enter the field to do damage.</p>
[SET]
name: Rest Talk + Dragon Dance
move 1: Outrage
move 2: Dragon Dance
move 3: Rest
move 4: Sleep Talk
Item: Leftovers
nature: Adamant
evs: 252 HP / 96 Atk / 160 SpD
[Set Comments]
<p>While Kingdra lacks any form of recovery outside of Rest, his excellent typing and respectable 75/95/95 defenses make him a great status absorber and offensive tank. Unlike other Kingdra sets, this one can actually switch in multiple times throughout the match without worrying too much about taking damage and status effects. People are often even thrown off-guard by Rest, since some just aim at weakening Kingdra to the point of revenge killing with a priority attacker - a strategy that will lead straight to their demise against this set.</p>
<p>Typically, this Kingdra will be able to Dragon Dance a few times then Rest off the damage before using Outrage. Sleep Talk remedies the issue of being locked into Outrage (assuming Outrage is selected while sleeping), and thus makes Outrage the superior choice over Waterfall as Kingdra's STAB attack. Outrage also has the advantage of not being walled completely by the likes of Vaporeon, or other Pokemon immune to Water-type attacks, and allows Kingdra to hit Dragon-types for super effective damage.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>This Kingdra's main purpose on a team is to act as a pseudo-counter to many common Pokemon while still maintaining an offensive momentum. It makes a great addition to any balanced team, particularly those that carry Pokémon to beat common phazers and stall (which are this set's downfall). This set is usually better suited as an early- to mid-game sweeper as it tends to outlive most of its counters in the long run and will have multiple opportunities to switch in. Unfortunately, being countered by common OU Pokemon like Scizor and Metagross tends to hinder Kingdra's effectiveness.</p>
<p>Using an EV spread of 252 HP / 96 Atk / 160 SpD will allow Kingdra to shrug off Special Attacks directed at him and easily set up on defensive Pokemon such as Celebi, Swampert, physical Jirachi, Vaporeon, Suicune, Hippowdon, Blissey, and Dusknoir. Life Orb Starmie can only 4HKO this set, turning a powerful sweeper into set up fodder. Despite these advantages, it may be worthwhile to use a more offensive spread; if you decide to go this route, using an EV spread of 244 HP / 112 Atk / 152 Spe with an Adamant nature is recommended. This grants Kingdra the ability to outrun Choice Scarf Tyranitar after one Dragon Dance and gives him a Leftovers number.</p>
<p>This set benefits from partners who can switch in on the Steel-type Pokemonwhom Kingdra has trouble against, particularly Metagross, Scizor, and Skarmory. Rotom-A makes a decent partner to this set for its ability to take on all three of the noted Pokemon. Unless they switch in on Superpower or Earthquake respectively, Heatran and Infernape can threaten all three Pokemon listed; Kingdra in turn can switch in on many Ground- and Water-type attacks that threaten these Pokemon. Thanks to Magnet Pull and a resistance to Dragon-type attacks, Magnezone is one of the best partners for Kingdra. However, care must be taken to make sure Magnezone doesn't switch in on a Scizor U-turn or Metagross Earthquake.</p>
<p>Having a Steel-type Pokemon of your own to switch in on Dragon-type attacks from Dragonite or Choice Scarf Flygon is also a good idea. Scizor can switch in on all of the aforementioned Dragons, take a Dragon-type attack, and hit them with Bullet Punch. Choice Band Scizor works best as it can Pursuit Starmie and Celebi on the switch and tends to attract Fire- and Water-type Pokemon who Kingdra can set up on.</p>
[Team Options]
<p>Stealth Rock support is very useful for all sets, especially the Rain Dance ones. Azelf, Bronzong, Jirachi, and Swampert are the best options to set it up on Rain Dance teams. As for non-Rain Dance ones, Azelf can still do well as it provides a nice quick Stealth Rock, and possibly also dual screens to help it Dragon Dance up. Heatran is a good choice because of its useful synergy with Kingdra, resisting its Dragon-type weakness, while Kingdra resists Heatran’s Water-type weakness. Toxic Spikes support is very useful for Dragon Dance sets in dealing with Celebi and bulky Water-types. Roserade is the best option for this, as it will appreciate the Fire-type resistance, and makes a nice lead to quickly set it up and possibly incapacitate an opponent's Pokemon. Tentacruel and Forretress can also set them up, but Tentacruel's similar typing to Kingdra makes it a lesser option, and Forretress is generally better on more defensive teams. Rain Dance support is almost a requirement for mixed and special Rain Dance sets, as they work best on Rain Dance teams, but can also be useful for the Double Dance and 3 Attack Dragon Dance sets. Bronzong, Jirachi, Magnezone, and Scizor are the best options for Rain Dance support Pokémon in this case, due to resisting Kingdra’s only weakness. Bronzong, Cresselia, and Magnezone are other good options. Magnezone can easily set Rain Dance up on a Choice-locked Scizor's Bullet Punch and other moves, while Bronzong and Cresselia are very bulky, so, barring Taunt, should be able to get up both. Cresselia can also provide Lunar Dance support to give a weakened Kingdra another chance to sweep.</p>
<p>For offensive support Pokémon, Ludicolo is the best option on Rain Dance teams, as it deals with the bulky Water-types that Kingdra hates. Kabutops and Qwilfish are other good partners on Rain Dance teams for ripping through your opponent’s team to create holes for Kingdra to abuse. Rotom formes make nice partners as they deal with bulky Water-types. Rotom-C can also scare off Swampert with Leaf Storm, while on Rain Dance teams, Rotom-W can abuse a powerful STAB 100% accurate Thunder and boosted Hydro Pump, making them effective offensive partners. Jolteon is another Electric-type who can scare off bulky Water-types and has Hidden Power Grass for Swampert. Scizor and Tyranitar are other good offensive partners, as Pursuit is a great tool to deal with many of Kingdra's counters and checks such as Celebi. Mixed Dragonite is a great partner for luring and taking out Skarmory, possibly Celebi, as well as Rotom-A.</p>
<p>For defensive support Pokémon, Steel-types are best, as they cover Kingdra's Dragon-type weakness. The best examples are Bronzong, Heatran, Jirachi, Magnezone, Metagross, and Scizor. Most of them can also provide Rain Dance support should you be using Kingdra on a Rain Dance team. Celebi makes a nice partner as it can also deal with bulky Water-types, and it will appreciate the Fire-type resistance. Add in Heatran and you can have a nice defensive combo; each of their weaknesses are covered by one another.</p>
[Optional Changes]
<p>Although only a minor option, Yawn can replace Substitute on the first set, as Yawning your opponent's first switch-in can result in forcing them to go to a Pokemon less equipped to deal with Kingdra (lest they allow their best Kingdra counter to be put to sleep). If they decide to save their Pokémon from sleep, Yawn has the added benefit of racking up residual damage on both opposing Pokemon. In addition, since their second switch-in to Kingdra will more than likely be unable to handle Kingdra to the same extent as their first, you might be able to pull off an extra Dragon Dance out of the deal.</p>
<p>Kingdra's movepool is fairly shallow and doesn't have much in the way of other options. Flail is decent if you can manage it, but good luck pulling it off with Tyranitar, priority-move users and Stealth Rock everywhere. Kingdra can run a Choice Band set, but the lack of a decent physical movepool hinders its viability.</p>
<p>Specific EVs are given for each set. Adamant, 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe is best for the Substitute Dragon Dance set, whereas Adamant, 252 Atk / 24 SpA / 232 Spe is the best option for the Dragon Dance + 3 Attacks set. Double Dance set is best with Adamant, 180 HP / 252 Atk / 76 Spe, but can use Adamant, 92 HP / 252 Atk / 164 Spe if you want to outspeed +1 positive base 100s in the rain. Mixed Rain Dance set should use Naughty, 252 Atk / 240 SpA / 16 Spe to outspeed Choice Scarf Heatran in the rain, but Naughty, 192 Atk / 240 SpA / 76 Spe is a good alternative to outspeed +1 neutral natured base 100s at the slight cost of Attack. Special Rain Dance set should use either Modest 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe or Modest, 92 HP / 252 SpA / 164 Spe for a bit more bulk. Timid, 32 HP / 252 SpA / 224 Spe can even be used for surprise factor outside of rain, as well as outspeed almost all opposing Kingdra and +2 Jolly Gyarados in the rain.</p>
[Counters]
<p>Empoleon easily walls most mixed and special Kingdra sets, fearing only the occasional Hidden Power Electric, but when it comes to the Dragon Dancer, Empoleon has to focus its EVs into Defense or it will be 2HKOed by boosted Outrages. Celebi and Tangrowth also do decently at stopping the Dragon Dancer, but still have to be wary of Life Orbed variants as Outrage can 2HKO both of them. Milotic, Ludicolo, Suicune, and Vaporeon are also effective at stopping the mixed and special sets as well due to their Water-type resistance and good Special Defense, although hits from Draco Meteor will still take their toll, while Blissey, Snorlax, and Regice will beat the special based Rain Dance set. Tyranitar and Abomasnow also can annoy the Rain Dance sets by taking away their rain and hitting back hard.</p>
