LC Koffing

ForgottenOnes

ForgottenOnes

[OVERVIEW]

Koffing is a naturally bulky defensive Pokemon that checks common Pokemon such as Timburr, Spritzee, and Mudbray. In fact, many physical attackers have a difficult time switching into Koffing, as opponents may be wary of a potential Will-O-Wisp. Levitate prevents Koffing from being trapped by Arena Trap users such as Diglett and Trapinch and also neutralizes one of Koffing's weaknesses in Ground-type attacks, making it an even better defensive Pokemon. On the offensive side, Koffing has useful coverage moves in Fire Blast, Thunderbolt, and Sludge Bomb that let it threaten common bulky cores like Spritzee, Mareanie, and Ferroseed.

However, Koffing's poor base Special Defense makes it very susceptible to special attackers and means it often gets OHKOed by a STAB Psychic-type attack from the likes of Galarian Ponyta. This weakness is exacerbated by its lackluster Speed tier. Koffing also doesn't have a consistent way to recover HP, which limits its role as a defensive check.

[SET]
name: Offensive
move 1: Sludge Bomb
move 2: Will-O-Wisp
move 3: Fire Blast
move 4: Thunderbolt
item: Eviolite
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid
evs: 36 HP/ 196 SpA / 236 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Sludge Bomb is Koffing's preferred STAB move, as it does good damage against neutral targets and threatens Pokemon like Spritzee and Corphish. Fire Blast complements Sludge Bomb, hitting targets that tank the latter such as Pawniard, Oddish, and Ferroseed. Will-O-Wisp neuters physical attackers such as Corphish and wears down Pokemon such as Mudbray and Onix that Koffing doesn't have coverage moves against. However, Koffing users should be careful of burning Guts Timburr, as it makes Timburr extremely powerful. Thunderbolt pressures Flying and Water-types such as Wingull and Mareanie and prevents Koffing from being setup fodder to the likes of Nasty Plot Vullaby.

Set Details
========
Maximum Speed EVs and a Timid nature allow Koffing to outspeed and apply greater pressure to Pokemon such as Adamant Corphish, Shellder, Timburr, and most Mudbray. Maximum Special Attack EVs are invested to get comfortable 2HKOs on Pokemon such as Pawniard, Mareanie, and Spritzee. Finally, the HP EVs enable Koffing to take advantage of its solid bulk and avoid being 2HKOed by a Flare Blitz from Ponyta. Eviolite allows Koffing to be even more tanky and helps absorbs Knock Offs from the likes of Timburr and Galarian Farfetch'd. Levitate is the preferred ability so Earthquake from Onix, Trapinch, and Diglett doesn't OHKO Koffing. It also saves Koffing from being trapped by Arena Trap, taking damage from Spikes, and losing Speed from Sticky Web.

Usage Tips
========
Koffing can easily switch in to many common unboosted attackers such as Pawniard, Oddish, and Timburr and can cripple them with Will-O-Wisp. Be wary of using Will-O-Wisp against Timburr and Ponyta, however, as both have abilities that counter Will-O-Wisp. Koffing should stay away from counters like Psychic-type Pokemon and Mold Breaker Drilbur, and they should be removed from the game as soon as possible. Koffing's amazing coverage moves allows it to deal serious damage to very common walls in the tier such as Ferroseed, Spritzee, and Mareanie.

Team Options
========
Koffing is best used as a soft answer to many Pokemon and is valuable on a team that needs to check many Pokemon with one slot. Its coverage also works a lot better with Knock Off support from teammates. Teammates such as Vullaby and Pawniard appreciates Koffing because it checks Fighting-type Pokemon, Spritzee, Mudbray, and Onix; Vullaby and Pawniard also deal with Psychic-type threats for Koffing. On the offensive side, Koffing's amazing coverage moves are able to put pressure on checks to common wallbreakers and setup sweepers such as Corphish and Shellder. Furthermore, Koffing appreciates an entry hazard setter as a single layer of Spikes will let Koffing OHKO Pawniard and Ferroseed. That being said, as opposing hazards also deal a ton of damage to Koffing especially with the constant switching that it has to do and its lack of a consistent form of recovery, having hazard removal is also appreciated.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
Koffing can run a plethora of other moves. Thief can be used to steal back an item, since Koffing is a common Knock Off target. This can be used in tandem with Berry Juice, which is a great way to heal but opens Koffing up to a stronger Knock Off. Koffing can also use Pain Split as a form of recovery, but it isn't very consistent. Clear Smog is a good way to check setup sweepers, while Toxic Spikes can wear down bulky walls such as Spritzee and Shellos. Koffing can also use the ability Neutralizing Gas to effectively get rid of Toxic Spikes, avoid Arena Trap, and nullify Chlorophyll, Skill Link, and Wynaut's Shadow Tag, but it'll be susceptible to super effective Ground-type attacks. Finally, Koffing can run a purely defensive set with a spread of 36 HP / 236 Def / 236 SpD so it can take even more hits from strong physical attackers such as Corphish, but the set completely takes out Koffing's offensive capabilities, making it a very passive Pokemon.

Checks and Counters
===================

**Psychic-types / Psychic-type coverage**: Psychic-types such as Galarian Ponyta and Natu have a really easy time KOing Koffing with their super effective STAB special attacks. Even non-STAB Psychic from the likes of Spritzee can deal more than 50% damage. However, even though neither Galarian Ponyta nor Natu is scared of being poisoned, they wouldn't like taking a Sludge Bomb.

**Wynaut**: Wynaut is easily able to trap Koffing and KO it with Mirror Coat, as Koffing is unable to OHKO Wynaut.

**Mold Breaker Drilbur**: Drilbur's ability Mold Breaker negates Koffing's ability, Levitate, which makes it susceptible to being 2HKOed by Earthquake or possibly OHKOed after Stealth Rock.

**Ponyta**: Even though Ponyta doesn't like switching into a Sludge Bomb, it can switch into a Fire Blast or a Will-O-Wisp and get a Flash Fire boost, which makes Flare Blitz even more powerful.

**Mudbray and Onix**: Even though these two Pokemon are checked by Koffing, Koffing doesn't have any coverage moves to deal significant damage to them. That being said, Onix can threaten Koffing with its powerful Rock-type STAB moves but wouldn't like to take a Will-O-Wisp.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[ForgottenOnes, 205691]]
- Quality checked by: [[jake, 110102 ], [KSG, 32350], [Berks, 255030]]
- Grammar checked by: [[The Dutch Plumberjack, 232216], [GatoDelFuego, 91628]]
 
Last edited by a moderator:
AM QC Check (Implement what you want!):

ForgottenOnes said:
Please ignore the countless grammar mistakes. Most of them are from the user I took the skeleton from. I promise the write-up will look better.

[OVERVIEW]

- Koffing is a naturally bulky defensive pokemon that checks types that are very common in LC's meta right now (fighting, fairy, rock, dark) (This is where I would discuss its physical bulk)
- It cannot be trapped by diglett and trapinch due to levitate. Levitate also neutralizes one of Koffing's weaknesses: Ground-type attacks making it an even better wall/defensive Pokemon. (Condense this down to a sentence like "Levitate provides an immunity to Ground-type attacks and prevents being trapped by Diglett and Trapinch")
- It also has useful offensive coverage in Fire Blast, Thunderbolt, and Sludge Bomb that lets it threaten common tanky cores like spritzee, mareanie, ferroseed.
- Koffing is extremely weak to Psychic-type Special Attackers and often gets OHKOed by a STAB Psychic (Discuss its lackluster Sp.Def and Speed in this sentence)
- Koffing doesn't have a consistent way to recover HP and has to rely on Pain Split.
- Koffing can't get worn down by Toxic like many other walls due to its typing. (Not relevant in LC)

[SET]
name: Defensive
move 1: Sludge Bomb
move 2: Will-O-Wisp
move 3: Fire Blast
move 4: Thunderbolt / Pain Split
item: Eviolite
ability: Levitate
nature: Bold
evs: 36 HP/ 236 Def/ 236 SpD - I believe that Koffing should be running Max Speed over Sp.Def (helping with outspeeding BU Ruff, Corphish, Mudbray, and Wynaut). I wouldn't change this until an official QC check tho.

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

- Sludge Bomb is the preferred STAB, hitting neutral targets for the most damage and letting it threaten pokemon like Spritzee and Cutiefly, which would normally ignore it.
- Will-O-Wisp neuters physical attackers like Corphish and Onix that normally might use their strong neutral options to break through Koffing. Burning tanky pokemon like Mareanie is also useful in wearing them down.
- Fire Blast compliments Sludge Bomb, hitting Pawniard and Ferroseed (Oddish too)
- Thunderbolt pressures bulky waters (like?) and prevents Koffing from being setup fodder for the likes of NP vullaby
- Pain split provides some form of recovery, and lets it survive alongside recovering pokemon like Mareanie


Set Details
========
- Max defenses and one HP point provide optimal bulk. The 236 SpD allows Koffing to take a blow from a +2 Vullaby for only about 40% HP.
- Bold nature lets it fill its role of a physical check the best
- Eviolite further allows Koffing to be tanky
- Levitate over any other ability so EQs from Onix, Trapinch, and Diglett don't OHKO (literally everything else sucks)

Usage Tips
========
- Koffing's amazing coverage moves allows it to deal serious damage to very common walls in the tier such as Ferroseed, Spritzee, and Mareanie
- Koffing can easily switch-in to many common non-set-up attackers such as Onix, Pawniard, Ponyta, and Timburr
- Access to Will-O-Wisp is huge especially to wear down walls and to cripple offensive physical attackers.
- At +0 there is pretty much no physical attacker that can OHKO Koffing which allows it to get a Will-O-Wisp off (except at 6.3% chance of CB Rufflet OHKOing--there's a higher chance of Rufflet missing #freethebird)
- Pokemon that counter Koffing--mainly Psychic types (and MB Drilbur), should be removed from the game ASAP

Team Options
========
- Koffing is a great defensive option for any team. - (This is a very misleading sentence. It is prone to being weakened by special attacks and lack reliable recovery which is why you dont see it on many meta teams.)
- It pairs well with Pokemon such as Vullaby and Pawniard that can deal with Psychic-type threats.
- Koffing isn't an attacker so it'd appreciate wallbreakers and set-up attackers such as Rufflet (#freethebird), Corphish, and Ponyta
- Having a hazard setter is definitely helpful as well. Having 1 layer of Spikes will let Koffing 2HKO a Mareanie, and OHKO a Ferroseed

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
- Koffing can take Knock Offs very well so having Thief to steal back an item might be useful (Mention Berry Juice with Thief since you would have to give up Pain Split)
- Life Orb Anti-meta set, sludge bomb fire blast tbolt to break spritzee ferroseed mareanie cores (Might need to have 36 SpA to OHKO Ferroseed with Fblast). (This would be the max Sp. Atk / Speed set)
- Having a purely Defensive Koffing (236 HP, 236 Def, 32 SpA or SpD) might be viable as Psychic-type Special Attackers such as Ponyta-Galagar and Natu OHKO anyways.
- Talk about Neutralizing Gas as an ability option (How it prevents you from getting trapped and allows you to absorb T-spikes but leaves you vulnerable to Ground-type attacks)

Checks and Counters
===================

**Psychic-types**: Psychic-types have a really easy time KOing Koffing. Special Attacks such as Psychic from Ponyta-G and Natu OHKO.
- Talk about Wynaut either in this section or in its own section as a threat that can get rid of Koffing

**Special Defense Walls**: Rest/Sleeptalk Munchlax is able to set up while eating up any of Koffing's attacks (RestTalk Munchlax is not currently relevant)

**Set-up sweepers**: Due to Koffing's low speed, Koffing is unable to deal with attackers such as Bulk Up Rufflet, SD Corphish, Growth Bulbasaur in Sun (Shell Smash Shellder has a slim chance to OHKO Koffing at +2). - not sure about this section. BU Ruff and SD Corphish can't really boost on Koffing because of Wisp and T-Bolt

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[ForgottenOnes, 205691]]
- Quality checked by: [[, ], [, ], [, ]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]
Click to expand...

Hope this helped!
 
Hi,

Set should be

name: Bulky Attacker
move 1: Sludge Bomb
move 2: Fire Blast
move 3: Thunderbolt
move 4: Will-o-Wisp
nature: Timid
evs: 36 HP / 196 SpA / 236 Spe

Please update the analysis accordingly and then tag me and I'll take a look
 
Last edited:
Stoward said:
Hi,

Set should be

name: Defensive
move 1: Sludge Bomb
move 2: Fire Blast
move 3: Thunderbolt
move 4: Will-o-Wisp
nature: Timid
evs: 36 HP / 196 SpA / 236 Spe

Please update the analysis accordingly and then tag me and I'll take a look
Click to expand...
You're short 40 EVs where do they go?
 
Another AM check, again implement whatever you want to

Overview:
I would lead by saying the Koffing has a nice place in the metagame, since psychic types aren't common and it is immune to ground type attacks
Considering you say it checks fairy types, you should follow by naming spritzee instead of Onix/Diglett (also check spelling of Diglett)
-General point for the whole analysis, Koffing does not check Onix because Head Smash 2HKOs and rock blast requires 7 hits to KO, also giving a good chance to 2HKO
Levitate gives it immunity from arena trap, not shadow tag. This sentence implies its immune to wynaut as well.

Set:
More aimed at Stoward, but a set with no def/spdef investment can't really be called a Defensive set. I think something like Bulky Wallbreaker would be more accurate

Moves:
Mention that thunderbolt also hits flying types hard, notably Vullaby (which you have mentioned already)

Set details:
I think the HP investment requires a justification by describing a damage roll that it wouldn't live without the HP investment (best example i could find was that it avoids the 2hko from ponyta's flare blitz)
Mention that levitate allows it to evade arena trap, spike damage and notably sticky web speed drop

Usage tips:
The first point should be say that Koffing should be used in the early-game to try to break through defensive cores and burn opposing physical attackers. (Koffing isn't a good wincon because of how easily it gets worn down)
Onix, Pawniard and Timburr can all run setup sets lmao. Delete Onix for reasons mentioned above. Add Oddish since it cant do much damage to Koffing. Keep Timburr but give a warning to be wary of statusing it in case it is running Guts.
The purpose of wisp is to cripple physical walls, not wear down walls. Just swap those two bits on that point.
Delete the 4th point here. It pretty says the same thing as the 1st point
Mold Breaker Drilbur shouldn't be in brackets - its a very big threat to koffing (I will also suggest adding this to checks and counters)

Team options:
First point is quite vague. I'd change it to say that teammates who appreciate koffing's ability to switch into fighting and fairy types synergise well with it
You can expand the second point to say that Pawniard has particularly good synergy because pawniard deals with the psychic types that threaten koffing while koffing switches into the fighting types that threaten pawniard
#BanTheBird
The point about wallbreakers should be rephrased to say that common wallbreakers appreciate the pressure that koffing exerts on their checks
I'd mention that Koffing appreciates the removal of hazards because it quickly gets worn down by stealth rock if it switches in repeatedly

Other options:
All fine, although I don't delete the "anti-meta" when talking about a life orb set - koffing's an anti-meta mon in general
Add toxic spikes, as they reduce the longevity of bulky walls such as shellos and spritzee
Destiny bond can be used remove a slower threat
Memento can give a teammate a good setup opportunity
Pain Split gives it a form of recovery
This would be a lot of other options, so pick and choose which options are most noteworthy

Checks and counters:
Add Drilbur here, but mention that it should avoid switching into a will-o-wisp burn
I see that you had spdef walls and mentioned munchlax. Bring this back but change it so that its resttalk users and name mudbray and munchlax as examples. Resting allows them to shake off burns and do significant damage while asleep, and koffing struggles to do significant damage to them
The setup sweepers should be special setup sweepers, such as calm mind Ponyta-G, nasty plot Salandit and nasty plot Croagunk. Keep sun growth bulbasaur

Quite a lot here to look at, I'd say the Usage tips and Team options sections need the most work done on them
 
EnzoLapras said:
Another AM check, again implement whatever you want to

Overview:
I would lead by saying the Koffing has a nice place in the metagame, since psychic types aren't common and it is immune to ground type attacks
Considering you say it checks fairy types, you should follow by naming spritzee instead of Onix/Diglett (also check spelling of Diglett)
-General point for the whole analysis, Koffing does not check Onix because Head Smash 2HKOs and rock blast requires 7 hits to KO, also giving a good chance to 2HKO
Levitate gives it immunity from arena trap, not shadow tag. This sentence implies its immune to wynaut as well.

Set:
More aimed at Stoward, but a set with no def/spdef investment can't really be called a Defensive set. I think something like Bulky Wallbreaker would be more accurate

Moves:
Mention that thunderbolt also hits flying types hard, notably Vullaby (which you have mentioned already)

Set details:
I think the HP investment requires a justification by describing a damage roll that it wouldn't live without the HP investment (best example i could find was that it avoids the 2hko from ponyta's flare blitz)
Mention that levitate allows it to evade arena trap, spike damage and notably sticky web speed drop

Usage tips:
The first point should be say that Koffing should be used in the early-game to try to break through defensive cores and burn opposing physical attackers. (Koffing isn't a good wincon because of how easily it gets worn down)
Onix, Pawniard and Timburr can all run setup sets lmao. Delete Onix for reasons mentioned above. Add Oddish since it cant do much damage to Koffing. Keep Timburr but give a warning to be wary of statusing it in case it is running Guts.
The purpose of wisp is to cripple physical walls, not wear down walls. Just swap those two bits on that point.
Delete the 4th point here. It pretty says the same thing as the 1st point
Mold Breaker Drilbur shouldn't be in brackets - its a very big threat to koffing (I will also suggest adding this to checks and counters)

Team options:
First point is quite vague. I'd change it to say that teammates who appreciate koffing's ability to switch into fighting and fairy types synergise well with it
You can expand the second point to say that Pawniard has particularly good synergy because pawniard deals with the psychic types that threaten koffing while koffing switches into the fighting types that threaten pawniard
#BanTheBird
The point about wallbreakers should be rephrased to say that common wallbreakers appreciate the pressure that koffing exerts on their checks
I'd mention that Koffing appreciates the removal of hazards because it quickly gets worn down by stealth rock if it switches in repeatedly

Other options:
All fine, although I don't delete the "anti-meta" when talking about a life orb set - koffing's an anti-meta mon in general
Add toxic spikes, as they reduce the longevity of bulky walls such as shellos and spritzee
Destiny bond can be used remove a slower threat
Memento can give a teammate a good setup opportunity
Pain Split gives it a form of recovery
This would be a lot of other options, so pick and choose which options are most noteworthy

Checks and counters:
Add Drilbur here, but mention that it should avoid switching into a will-o-wisp burn
I see that you had spdef walls and mentioned munchlax. Bring this back but change it so that its resttalk users and name mudbray and munchlax as examples. Resting allows them to shake off burns and do significant damage while asleep, and koffing struggles to do significant damage to them
The setup sweepers should be special setup sweepers, such as calm mind Ponyta-G, nasty plot Salandit and nasty plot Croagunk. Keep sun growth bulbasaur

Quite a lot here to look at, I'd say the Usage tips and Team options sections need the most work done on them
Click to expand...

Implemented! Thank you so much for all of this :)
 
Third AM check, implement what you want.
ForgottenOnes said:
Levitate not only prevents Arena Trappers such as Diglett and Trapinch, but also neutralizes one of Koffing's weaknesses: Ground-type attacks making it an even better wall/defensive Pokemon.
Click to expand...
Rephrase this. I’d rephrase this to:

“..., but also prevents Ground-types, such as (cite examples here), from touching it...”

ForgottenOnes said:
Koffing doesn't have a consistent way to recover HP.
Click to expand...
Rephrase this to:
“Koffing’s lack of recovery can be exploited, and it can be slowly worn down.”

ForgottenOnes said:
Koffing's amazing coverage moves is able to put pressure on checks to common wallbreakers and set-up sweepers such as Rufflet, Corphish, and Shellder
Click to expand...
Remove Rufflet from the list, since it recently got banned.

ForgottenOnes said:
Team Options
Click to expand...
Add Spritzee, since it functions as a cleric that can help Koffing recover, since Koffing lacks reliable recovery. Also add what team archetype Koffing fits best.
 
ImperialGamer517 said:
Third AM check, implement what you want.
Rephrase this. I’d rephrase this to:

“..., but also prevents Ground-types, such as (cite examples here), from touching it...”


Rephrase this to:
“Koffing’s lack of recovery can be exploited, and it can be slowly worn down.”


Remove Rufflet from the list, since it recently got banned.


Add Spritzee, since it functions as a cleric that can help Koffing recover, since Koffing lacks reliable recovery. Also add what team archetype Koffing fits best.
Click to expand...
Gotcha! Also, no need to mention grammar changes right now imo. Not in GP yet.
 
ImperialGamer517 said:
The grammar changes is so that GP team won’t need to change that much later on
Click to expand...
hi! i'm not lc qc, but you should definitely give the C&C Guide To Writing And QCing a read, as it covers exactly that matter as well as other stuff that you will find useful when amchecking. regarding doing gp changes in qc/amqc checks, this is what it has to say:
Basic things to consider when QCing an analysis:

6) Don't GP. Ever. This isn't your job to do, it's for the GP team to do. Analyses go through rough stages and changes during QC, so early GPing is both annoying and borderline pointless, especially during the first and second stages of QC. Many writers, including myself, will write more casually before QC 3/3 and/or GP. It is, however, acceptable to correct Pokemon, Items, and Abilities that are spelled incorrectly.
Click to expand...

gl on your future checks!
 
Don't worry about grammar until you're in the full write-up stage.

[OVERVIEW]

- Koffing is a naturally bulky defensive pokemon that checks types that are very common in LC's meta right now (fighting, fairy). It's a great physically defensive Pokemon that checks Pokemon such as Timburr, Sprtizee, Diglett, among others.
Click to expand...

I'd mention Mudbray here over Diglett. Diglett can't really be "checked".

- Levitate not only prevents Arena Trappers such as Diglett and Trapinch, but also neutralizes one of Koffing's weaknesses: Ground-type attacks making it an even better wall/defensive Pokemon.
Click to expand...

Good. Mention the new ability Neutralizing Gas here as well, as it also nullifies Arena Trap (and Shadow Tag, which Levitate does not). Importantly, it also blocks abilities like Chlorophyll and Skill Link, letting it be a serviceable answer to a number of Pokemon, at the expense of the Ground immunity.

The rest looks good.

Set and moves are great.

Set Details
========
- 236 Speed EVs allows Koffing to outspeed Pokemon at a speed tier of 13 such as Mareanie which it can 2HKO it before it can Recover.
Click to expand...

Mareanie often runs more Speed. I would mention Corphish here.

- Timid nature helps it outspeed certain Pokemon such as Mareanie, Pawniard, (non-sunny day) Bulbasaur
Click to expand...

Timid does not outrun Pawniard, ever. It also usually does not outrun Bulbasaur. 14 is a very common Speed tier in LC, and the competition around there is usually Corphish, Shellder, Mudbray, and Mareanie.

- Levitate over any other ability so EQs from Onix, Trapinch, and Diglett don't OHKO. It also saves Koffing from being Arena Trapped, saves it from Spikes damage and Sticky Web. (literally everything else sucks)
Click to expand...

Neutralizing Gas is... not good, but it's ok!!

Usage Tips
========
- Koffing's amazing coverage moves allows it to deal serious damage to very common walls in the tier such as Ferroseed, Spritzee, and Mareanie
- Koffing can easily switch-in to many common non-set-up attackers such as Pawniard, Oddish, and Timburr
- Access to Will-O-Wisp is huge especially to wear down walls and to cripple physical offensive attackers. Beware of Burning a Timburr as it may have the ability Guts which gives it an attack boost instead.
- Koffing isn't the strongest attacker, but it can be used to wear down opposing Pokemon especially with its strong coverage set.
- Pokemon that counter Koffing--mainly Psychic types and MB Drilbur, should be removed from the game ASAP
Click to expand...

Looks fine.

Team Options
========
- Koffing is a good physically defensive option for any team as it can check many common Pokemon in the current meta. Teammates who appreciate a check to Fighting- and Fairy-type Pokemon would appreciate Koffing.
- It pairs well with Pokemon such as Vullaby and Pawniard that can deal with Psychic-type threats while Koffing can switch into Fighting-types that threaten Pawniard.
- Koffing's amazing coverage moves is able to put pressure on checks to common wallbreakers and set-up sweepers such as Corphish, and Shellder
- Having a hazard setter is definitely helpful as well. Having 1 layer of Spikes will let Koffing OHKO Pawniard and Ferroseed.
- Koffing appreciates hazard removal as the constant switch ins will wear Koffing down especially since it doesn't have a consistent form of recovery.
Click to expand...

Koffing is best used as a soft answer to many things, so it is particularly valuable on a team that needs to cover many Pokemon with one slot instead of a full defensive core. Its coverage also works much better if it has Knock Off support from teammates.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
- Koffing can take Knock Offs very well so having Thief to steal back an item might be useful; Koffing can also run Berry Juice to go along with Thief.
- Life Orb with sludge bomb fire blast tbolt to break spritzee ferroseed mareanie cores (This would be a max SpA + Speed EV set with the rest in HP).
- Having a purely Defensive Koffing (36HP / 236 Def / 236 SpD) might be viable so it can take multiple hits from strong physical attackers such as Corphish.
- Neutralizing Gas ability can be used to effectively get rid of T Spikes while also avoiding Arena Trap, but you'll be susceptible to Ground-type super-effective attacks.
- Toxic Spikes can wear down bulky walls such Spritzee and Shellos
- Pain Split can used be a form of recovery for Koffing
Click to expand...

Might be nitpicky but "can take Knock Offs very well" should probably instead say that Koffing is a common Knock Off target. Also, mention Wynaut in the Neutralizing Gas section.

**Psychic-types**: Psychic-types have a really easy time KOing Koffing. Special Attacks such as Psychic from Ponyta-G and Natu OHKO.
Click to expand...

A number of Pokemon also run Psychic as a coverage move, most commonly Spritzee. Not sure where you might want to put that, but could be worth a mention.

Honestly, looks good. I'm not the most experienced Koffing user, but you have covered a lot of the right bases here. Good job.

1/3
 
jake said:
Don't worry about grammar until you're in the full write-up stage.



I'd mention Mudbray here over Diglett. Diglett can't really be "checked".



Good. Mention the new ability Neutralizing Gas here as well, as it also nullifies Arena Trap (and Shadow Tag, which Levitate does not). Importantly, it also blocks abilities like Chlorophyll and Skill Link, letting it be a serviceable answer to a number of Pokemon, at the expense of the Ground immunity.

The rest looks good.

Set and moves are great.



Mareanie often runs more Speed. I would mention Corphish here.



Timid does not outrun Pawniard, ever. It also usually does not outrun Bulbasaur. 14 is a very common Speed tier in LC, and the competition around there is usually Corphish, Shellder, Mudbray, and Mareanie.



Neutralizing Gas is... not good, but it's ok!!



Looks fine.



Koffing is best used as a soft answer to many things, so it is particularly valuable on a team that needs to cover many Pokemon with one slot instead of a full defensive core. Its coverage also works much better if it has Knock Off support from teammates.



Might be nitpicky but "can take Knock Offs very well" should probably instead say that Koffing is a common Knock Off target. Also, mention Wynaut in the Neutralizing Gas section.



A number of Pokemon also run Psychic as a coverage move, most commonly Spritzee. Not sure where you might want to put that, but could be worth a mention.

Honestly, looks good. I'm not the most experienced Koffing user, but you have covered a lot of the right bases here. Good job.

1/3
Click to expand...
Implemented. THANK YOU SO MUCH :)
 
[Overview]

  • Rather than saying that Koffing checks fighting and fairy types (especially since there is only one relevant fairy), list some specific Pokemon that it checks well - Timburr, Spritzee, Mudbray, etc
  • In addition to this sentence about how Koffing's coverage allows it to threaten bulky cores, mention how its coverage and the threat of wisp make it a deceptively difficult mon to switch into and give it decent offensive presence.
  • Instead of mentioning Psychic-type attackers specifically, say that Koffing's lesser special bulk leaves it threatened by the tier's stronger special attackers, especially Pony-G and its STAB Psychic.
  • Contextualize Koffing's lack of reliable healing - mention how this limits its role as a defensive check as it gets worn down during a game.

set looks fine

[moves]

  • Mention that Sludge Bomb is pretty strong with investment
  • I don't think Corphish is an especially relevant mention since it cannot switch into Koffing and is smacked by tbolt - keep the Onix mention and talk about how Wisp helps Koffing neutralize physical attackers more generally and weakens mons like Onix and Mudbray that otherwise are not threatened by Koffing's moves. I also don't know how relevant the Mareanie mention is since standard 23/12 Mareanie can't outheal tbolt damage anyway.
  • What flying types other than Vullaby is tbolt pressuring?

[set details]
  • Rephrase the speed EV sentence to say that with maximum investment and a Timid nature, Koffing outspeeds Adamant Corphish and Shellder and most Mudbray and Timburr, allowing it to apply greater offensive pressure. Say maximum special attack investment instead of the ev number too.
  • Mention that Eviolite helps Koffing better absorb knock offs from fighters like Timburr and Fetchd.

[team options]
  • Since other fairy types don't really exist at the moment, I would again replace "Fairy-types" with Spritzee.

[other options]
  • Is this Life Orb set really a thing? Soliciting opinions from other QCers on this. If it is, mention that this set forgoes much of Koffing's defensive utility and makes it less capable of soft-checking most threats.
  • Mention Berry Juice - not much OHKOs Koffing and it likes the recovery, but it makes you more vulnerable to Knock Off which is typically not worth it.
  • Mention Clear Smog as an option for Koffing to check set-up sweepers.
  • Explain how the full defensive spread sacrifices Koffing's offensive presence and makes it a much more passive mon.

[checks and counters]
  • I don't think Rest Talkers or Wynaut are prevalent enough to warrant a mention here. You can probably leave Wynaut in barring further comment, but I think the Mudbray comment can be repurposed, and Rest Talk Munch isn't common at all. Maybe incorporate Rest Talk Bray into a point about Onix? I think Onix is worth a mention down here because it isn't threatened by Koffing's coverage and threatens back with its Rock STAB, but fears wisp.
  • Mention that while Pony-G doesn't fear being poisoned, neither it nor Natu like switching into Sludge Bomb.
  • I don't think "set-up sweepers" are necessary here - especially since you should be hitting SD Corphish before it hits you, and it's not like many mons can eat neutral hits from it or boosted Shellder anyway.
  • Mention regular Ponyta - it doesn't like Sludge Bomb, but it can switch into Wisp or Fire Blast (often getting a flash fire boost) and threaten back with a powerful Flare Blitz.

Incorporate these changes and you should be good to go. QC 2/3
 
KSG said:
[Overview]

  • Rather than saying that Koffing checks fighting and fairy types (especially since there is only one relevant fairy), list some specific Pokemon that it checks well - Timburr, Spritzee, Mudbray, etc
  • In addition to this sentence about how Koffing's coverage allows it to threaten bulky cores, mention how its coverage and the threat of wisp make it a deceptively difficult mon to switch into and give it decent offensive presence.
  • Instead of mentioning Psychic-type attackers specifically, say that Koffing's lesser special bulk leaves it threatened by the tier's stronger special attackers, especially Pony-G and its STAB Psychic.
  • Contextualize Koffing's lack of reliable healing - mention how this limits its role as a defensive check as it gets worn down during a game.

set looks fine

[moves]

  • Mention that Sludge Bomb is pretty strong with investment
  • I don't think Corphish is an especially relevant mention since it cannot switch into Koffing and is smacked by tbolt - keep the Onix mention and talk about how Wisp helps Koffing neutralize physical attackers more generally and weakens mons like Onix and Mudbray that otherwise are not threatened by Koffing's moves. I also don't know how relevant the Mareanie mention is since standard 23/12 Mareanie can't outheal tbolt damage anyway.
  • What flying types other than Vullaby is tbolt pressuring?

[set details]
  • Rephrase the speed EV sentence to say that with maximum investment and a Timid nature, Koffing outspeeds Adamant Corphish and Shellder and most Mudbray and Timburr, allowing it to apply greater offensive pressure. Say maximum special attack investment instead of the ev number too.
  • Mention that Eviolite helps Koffing better absorb knock offs from fighters like Timburr and Fetchd.

[team options]
  • Since other fairy types don't really exist at the moment, I would again replace "Fairy-types" with Spritzee.

[other options]
  • Is this Life Orb set really a thing? Soliciting opinions from other QCers on this. If it is, mention that this set forgoes much of Koffing's defensive utility and makes it less capable of soft-checking most threats.
  • Mention Berry Juice - not much OHKOs Koffing and it likes the recovery, but it makes you more vulnerable to Knock Off which is typically not worth it.
  • Mention Clear Smog as an option for Koffing to check set-up sweepers.
  • Explain how the full defensive spread sacrifices Koffing's offensive presence and makes it a much more passive mon.

[checks and counters]
  • I don't think Rest Talkers or Wynaut are prevalent enough to warrant a mention here. You can probably leave Wynaut in barring further comment, but I think the Mudbray comment can be repurposed, and Rest Talk Munch isn't common at all. Maybe incorporate Rest Talk Bray into a point about Onix? I think Onix is worth a mention down here because it isn't threatened by Koffing's coverage and threatens back with its Rock STAB, but fears wisp.
  • Mention that while Pony-G doesn't fear being poisoned, neither it nor Natu like switching into Sludge Bomb.
  • I don't think "set-up sweepers" are necessary here - especially since you should be hitting SD Corphish before it hits you, and it's not like many mons can eat neutral hits from it or boosted Shellder anyway.
  • Mention regular Ponyta - it doesn't like Sludge Bomb, but it can switch into Wisp or Fire Blast (often getting a flash fire boost) and threaten back with a powerful Flare Blitz.

Incorporate these changes and you should be good to go. QC 2/3
Click to expand...
Thank you! There was a lot so do you mind checking over everything just to make sure I got everything?
 
you got everything from KSG (who is a baller)

here are the last things I'd fix up:

[moves]
Corphish is threatened by Sludge Bomb and wisp too. I'd change the sentence to say just "Thunderbolt pressures Water-types such as Wingull and Mareanie and prevents Koffing from being setup fodder to the likes of Nasty Plot Vullaby"

[other options]
that life orb set should go for sure, I'd take it out

great work! be sure to implement and then move this QC 3/3 analysis to GP!
 
Berks said:
you got everything from KSG (who is a baller)

here are the last things I'd fix up:

[moves]
Corphish is threatened by Sludge Bomb and wisp too. I'd change the sentence to say just "Thunderbolt pressures Water-types such as Wingull and Mareanie and prevents Koffing from being setup fodder to the likes of Nasty Plot Vullaby"

[other options]
that life orb set should go for sure, I'd take it out

great work! be sure to implement and then move this QC 3/3 analysis to GP!
Click to expand...
Will move it there after writing it up!

Edit: Done writing up. It has been thrown to GP.
 
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remove add / fix (comments); (AC=add comma; RC=remove comma; SC=semicolon)
GP 1/2
[OVERVIEW]

Koffing is a naturally bulky defensive Pokemon that checks common Pokemon that are very common in LC's meta right now such as Timburr, Sprtizee Spritzee, and Mudbray. In fact, many physical attackers have a difficult time switching into Koffing, (AC) as opponents' opponents may be wary of a potential Will-O-Wisp. Levitate prevents Koffing from being trapped by Arena Trappers Trap users such as Diglett and Trapinch (RC) but and also neutralizes one of Koffing's weaknesses in Ground-type attacks, making it an even better wall/defensive Pokemon. On the other hand, Koffing's other ability, Neutralizing Gas, also allows Koffing to avoid Arena Trappers and nullify shut down Chlorophyll and Skill Link users but trades away Ground-type immunity. On the offensive side, Koffing has useful coverage moves in Fire Blast, Thunderbolt, and Sludge Bomb that lets it threaten common bulky cores like Spritzee, Mareanie, and Ferroseed.

However, Koffing's has a weak poor base Special Defense, making makes it very susceptible to special attackers and means it often gets OHKOed by a STAB Psychic-type attack from the likes of Galarian Ponyta-G. This weakness is perpetuated exacerbated by its lackluster Speed tier. Koffing also doesn't have a consistent way to recover HP, (AC) which limits its role as a defensive check.

[SET]
name: Offensive
move 1: Sludge Bomb
move 2: Will-O-Wisp
move 3: Fire Blast
move 4: Thunderbolt
item: Eviolite
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid
evs: 36 HP/ 196 SpA / 236 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Sludge Bomb is Koffing's preferred STAB move, (AC) as it does good damage against neutral targets and threatens Pokemon like Spritzee and Corphish. Fire Blast compliments complements Sludge Bomb, hitting targets that tank it the latter such as Pawniard, Oddish, and Ferroseed. Will-O-Wisp neuters physical attackers such as Corphish and deals damage to wears down Pokemon such as Mudbray and Onix that Koffing doesn't have coverage moves against. However, Koffing users should be careful of burning Guts Timburr, (AC) as it makes Timburr extremely powerful. Thunderbolt pressures Flying and Water-types such as Wingull and Mareanie and prevents Koffing from being setup fodder to the likes of Nasty Plot Vullaby.

Set Details
========
Maximum Speed EVs and a Timid nature allows allow Koffing to outspeed and apply greater pressure to Pokemon such as Adamant Corphish, Shellder, Timburr, and most Mudbray. The Maximum Special Attack EVs are invested to get comfortable 2HKOs on Pokemon such as Pawniard, Mareanie, and Spritzee. Finally, (AC) the HP EVs invested into HP are so enable Koffing can to take advantage of its solid physical defense stats bulk and avoids avoid being 2HKOed by a Flare Blitz from Ponyta. Eviolite allows Koffing to be even more tanky and helps absorbs Knock Offs from the likes of Timburr and Galarian Farfetch'd-G. Levitate is the preferred ability so Earthquake from Onix, Trapinch, and Diglett don't doesn't OHKO Koffing. It also saves Koffing from being trapped by Arena Trapped, taking damage from Spikes, and losing Speed from Sticky Webs Web.

Usage Tips
========
Koffing can easily switch in (RH) to many common non-set-up unboosted attackers such as Pawniard, Oddish, and Timburr and can cripple them with Will-O-Wisp. Be wary of using Will-O-Wisp against Timburr and Ponyta, however, as both have abilities that counter Will-O-Wisp. Koffing should stay away from counters like Psychic-type Pokemon and Mold Breaker Drilbur, (AC) and they should be removed from the game as soon as possible. Koffing's amazing coverage moves allows it to deal serious damage to very common walls in the tier such as Ferroseed, Spritzee, and Mareanie.

Team Options
========
Koffing is best used as a soft answer to many Pokemon and is valuable on a team that needs to check many Pokemon with one slot. Its coverage also works a lot better with Knock Off support from teammates. Teammates such as Vullaby and Pawniard appreciates Koffing because it checks Fighting-type Pokemon, Spritzee, Mudbray, and Onix; Vullaby and Pawniard also deals deal with Psychic-type threats for Koffing. On the offensive side, Koffing's amazing coverage moves are able to put pressure on checks to common wallbreakers and set-up setup sweepers such as Corphish (RC) and Shellder. Furthermore, Koffing appreciates an entry hazard setter, (AC) as having 1 a single layer of Spikes will let Koffing OHKO Pawniard and Ferroseed. That being said, as opposing hazards also deal a ton of damage to Koffing and especially with the constant switch ins will wear it down especially since it doesn't have a switching that it has to do and its lack of a consistent form of recovery, (AC) so have having hazard removal is also appreciated.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
Koffing can run a plethora of other moves. Thief can be used to steal back an item, (AC) since Koffing is a common Knock Off target. This can be used in tandem with Berry Juice, which is a great way to heal (RC) but opens Koffing up to a harder hitting stronger Knock Off. Koffing can also use Pain Split as a form of recovery, but it isn't very consistent. Clear Smog is a good way to check set-up setup sweepers, (AC) while Toxic Spikes can wear down bulky walls such as Spritzee and Shellos. Koffing can also use the ability Neutralizing Gas which can be used to effectively get rid of Toxic Spikes, avoid Arena Trap, and nullify Chlorophyll, Skill Link, and Wynaut's Shadow Tag, but it'll be susceptible to super effective Ground-type super-effective attacks. Finally, Koffing can run a purely defensive set at ( with a spread of 36 HP / 236 Def / 236 SpD) so it can take even more hits from strong physical attackers such as Corphish, but the set completely takes out Koffing's offensive capabilities, (AC) making it a very passive Pokemon.

Checks and Counters
===================

**Psychic-types / Psychic-type coverage**: Psychic-types such as Galarian Ponyta and Natu have a really easy time KOing Koffing (RP) with their super effective STAB special attacks such as Psychic from Ponyta-G and Natu OHKOs. Even a Spritzee with non-STAB Psychic as a coverage move from the likes of Spritzee can deal more than 50% damage. However, even though neither Galarian Ponyta-G nor Natu are is scared of being poisoned, they wouldn't like taking a Sludge Bomb.

**Wynaut**: Wynaut is easily able to trap Koffing and KO Koffing it with Mirror Coat, (AC) as Koffing is unable to OHKO Wynaut.

**Mold Breaker Drilbur**: Drilbur's ability (RC) Mold Breaker (RC) negates Koffing's ability, Levitate, which makes it susceptible to being 2HKOed by Earthquake which 2HKOs Koffing (or possible OHKO possibly OHKOed after Stealth Rocks).

**Ponyta**: Even though Ponyta doesn't like switching into a Sludge Bomb, it can switch into a Fire Blast or a Will-O-Wisp and get a Flash Fire boost, (AC) which makes Flare Blitz even more powerful.

**Mudbray and Onix**: Even though these two Pokemon are checked by Koffing, Koffing doesn't have any coverage moves to deal significant damage to them. That being said, Onix can threaten Koffing with its powerful Rock-type STAB moves but wouldn't like to take a Will-O-Wisp.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[ForgottenOnes, 205691]]
- Quality checked by: [[jake, 110102 ], [KSG, 32350], [Berks, 255030]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]
 
[OVERVIEW]

Koffing is a naturally bulky defensive Pokemon that checks common Pokemon such as Timburr, Spritzee, and Mudbray. In fact, many physical attackers have a difficult time switching into Koffing, as opponents may be wary of a potential Will-O-Wisp. Levitate prevents Koffing from being trapped by Arena Trap users such as Diglett and Trapinch and also neutralizes one of Koffing's weaknesses in Ground-type attacks, making it an even better defensive Pokemon. On the other hand, Koffing's other ability, Neutralizing Gas, allows Koffing to avoid Arena Trap and shut down Chlorophyll and Skill Link users. On the offensive side, Koffing has useful coverage moves in Fire Blast, Thunderbolt, and Sludge Bomb that lets let it threaten common bulky cores like Spritzee, Mareanie, and Ferroseed.
2/2
 
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