Monotype Mega Heracross (Bug) [QC 3/3] [GP 2/2]

[ChrystalFalchion]

[OVERVIEW]

Bug
========

Mega Heracross's monstrous Attack stat and access to Swords Dance make it a formidable wallbreaker on Bug teams that can destroy many walls, such as Skarmory, Celesteela, Mantine, and Toxapex. It also has great bulk, giving it ample setup opportunities while simultaneously making it harder to revenge kill. However, its Speed is average at best, making it heavily reliant on Sticky Web support against more offensive teams. It also takes up the team's Mega slot, preventing the use of Mega Pinsir or Mega Scizor, both of which are arguably superior choices. The former boasts superior Speed, and the latter has a better defensive typing. Both also have STAB priority, which Bug otherwise lacks.

[SET]
name: Wallbreaker (Bug)
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Close Combat
move 3: Rock Blast
move 4: Earthquake
item: Heracronite
ability: Moxie
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

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

Swords Dance boosts Mega Heracross's already massive Attack stat by two stages, letting it break through almost any wall. Close Combat is Mega Heracross's STAB move, letting it break through Normal-, Steel-, and Ice-types like Porygon2, Skarmory, and Mamoswine. Rock Blast has fantastic coverage with Close Combat, hitting the Bug- and Flying-types that resist the latter for super effective damage. Thanks to Skill Link, Rock Blast will always hit five times. It OHKOes Zapdos unboosted and defensive Staraptor after a Swords Dance. Earthquake is used in the last slot to hit the Poison-types that resist Mega Heracross's STAB moves, OHKOing Toxapex after a Swords Dance. If you have teammates that can reliably deal with Toxapex, Pin Missile can be used instead of Earthquake as an alternate STAB move that will always hit 5 times thanks to Skill Link. It OHKOes defensive Mew, and after a Swords Dance, it OHKOes Mega Sableye, Mega Slowbro, and Mega Venusaur after Stealth Rock damage.

Set Details
========

Maximum Speed EVs and a Jolly nature are used to enable Mega Heracross to outrun Mega Lopunny with Sticky Web down, as well as to outrun and OHKO defensively inclined base 100 Speed Pokemon, such as defensive Staraptor and defensive Mew, before they have a chance to OHKO with Brave Bird or cripple Mega Heracross with a burn. Maximum Attack investment gives Mega Heracross as much raw power as possible. Moxie is the most useful ability before Mega Evolving, as Attack boosts Heracross might gain will transfer over. Skill Link is Mega Heracross's only ability post-Mega Evolution, which allows Rock Blast and Pin Missile to always hit 5 times.

Usage Tips
========

Mega Heracross is most effective early- or mid-game, weakening or outright removing defensive cores so that its teammates can clear up later in the match. Try to set up Swords Dance on Pokemon that don't stay in on Mega Heracross, such as Ferrothorn, Chansey, and Tyranitar, or Pokemon that can't do much back to it, such as Mandibuzz. As Mega Heracross's Attack is already so massive, setting up Swords Dance isn't always necessary against teams that are inherently weak to Fighting, such as Normal and Dark, as Mega Heracross can already 2HKO most walls those teams have without a boost. Do not Mega Evolve Heracross until you need the power, bulk, or Skill Link, as Moxie allows you to potentially pick up Attack boosts without having to use Swords Dance. If paired with Scizor, you could also bluff the Choice Scarf set, as your opponent might think you're running Mega Scizor instead. As Mega Heracross needs high health to reliably wallbreak, avoid switching it into attacks if possible. Don't be too hasty switching into walls either, as it hates being badly poisoned, paralyzed, or burned. Bringing it in via U-turn or Volt Switch or after a teammate has fainted is often the preferred method.

Team Options
========

Galvantula can set Sticky Web, which is essential for Mega Heracross to outrun everything slower than Zeraora. In addition to setting the entry hazard, it can use its STAB Thunder to check Flying-types for Mega Heracross and 2HKO Toxapex, which can give Mega Heracross problems if it chooses to forgo Earthquake. Armaldo is another very useful teammate, as the Stealth Rock it sets allows Mega Heracross to OHKO Skarmory with a +2 Close Combat, as well as guarantee the OHKO on Mega Venusaur with a +2 Pin Missile. It can also remove opposing entry hazards with Rapid Spin and help check the Fire- and Flying-types Mega Heracross fears, such as Mega Charizard Y and Tornadus-T. Scizor is a very useful teammate that can beat most of the Fairy-types that Mega Heracross is weak to and bring Mega Heracross in safely with U-turn while also Pursuit trapping Latios, Latias, and -1 Victini, which can all OHKO Mega Heracross. Scizor appreciates Mega Heracross's ability to weaken or remove physical walls, such as Skarmory, Toxapex, and Hippowdon. Volcarona is a potent setup sweeper that pairs well with Mega Heracross, as they can weaken and remove each other's checks. Mega Heracross can remove Chansey, Alolan Muk, Mantine, and Toxapex, all of which can stop Volcarona from sweeping. In return, Volcarona can set up on defensive Mew and Mega Sableye, both of which can cripple Mega Heracross with Will-O-Wisp if it hasn't boosted yet. Choice Scarf Buzzwole is a great partner for Mega Heracross, as the two can wear down each other's checks, such as Mega Sableye, Skarmory, Zapdos, and Toxapex. Araquanid can absorb Will-O-Wisps aimed at Mega Heracross courtesy of Water Bubble, set up Sticky Web to negate Mega Heracross's average Speed, and check Fire-types for Mega Heracross, such as Mega Charizard Y and Blacephalon. In return, Mega Heracross can check the bulky Grass-types, such as Mega Venusaur and Ferrothorn, that wall Araquanid. Lastly, Forretress can set up Stealth Rock and Spikes to give Mega Heracross an easier time wallbreaking, remove them with Rapid Spin, and bring Mega Heracross in safely with a slow Volt Switch.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
========

Bullet Seed always hits 5 times thanks to Skill Link and can be used instead of Earthquake to hit bulky Water- and Ground-types. It OHKOes Swampert and Gastrodon unboosted and OHKOes Hippowdon after Swords Dance. Substitute allows Mega Heracross to set up on more defensive Pokemon, such as Toxapex and Gastrodon. However, Mega Heracross dislikes losing out on coverage.

Checks and Counters
========

Bug
--------

**Bulky Poison-types**: Poison-types resist both of Heracross's STAB moves and take little damage from its coverage. Bulkier ones, such as Mega Venusaur and Toxapex, are generally able to recover off any damage that Heracross does while threatening it with status or powerful attacks. However, they do need to be wary of Mega Heracross's Earthquake, especially after a Swords Dance boost.

**Fairy-types**: Fairy-types resist both of Mega Heracros's STAB moves and hit it for super effective damage. Clefable can 2HKO Mega Heracross with Moonblast and is never OHKOed by a +2 Rock Blast. Other common Fairy-types like Mega Diancie and Mega Altaria outspeed and easily KO Mega Heracross.

[CREDITS]

- Written by: [[ChrystalFalchion]]
- Bug analysis by: [[Cam]]
- Quality checked by: [Moosical, 215618], [Maroon] [Vid, 239907]]
- Grammar checked by: [[The Dutch Plumberjack, 232216], [[Electroylte]]

 

[ChrystalFalchion]

OK, think I'm ready now.

 

[Moosical]

​

[OVERVIEW]

Bug
========

*Boasting an absolutely incredible base Attack stat, in conjunction with powerful STABs and access to Swords Dance, Mega Heracross is a fearsome wallbreaker on Bug teams.
* Skill Link transforms Pin Missile, Rock Blast and Bullet Seed into effective base 125 power attacks that also break through Substitutes, Focus Sashes, Multiscale, Disguise and Sturdy.
* Mega Heracross's Fighting STAB allows it to decimate Steel, Dark, and balanced Normal teams, as it can comfortably OHKO all Pokémon commonly found on those teams after a Swords Dance.
* ItMega Heracross also has great bulk, giving it ample set up opportunities and making it harder to revenge kill.
* However, Mega Heracross'sits Speed is average at best, and it lacks a good priority move, making it heavily reliant on Sticky Web against more offensive teams.
* While its secondary Fighting typing does remove its Stealth Rock weakness, it also gives Mega Heracross a nasty 4X weakness to Flying-type moves, a type Bug already struggles against.
* Lastly, it Mega Heracross takes up the team's mega slot, preventing you from using Mega Pinsir or Mega Scizor, both of which are arguably superior choices. The former boasts superior Speed and the latter has better defensive typing. Both also have STAB priority which Bug otherwise lacks.

This is being melded into the existing Heracross (Bug) analysis already on smogdex. I removed the sentences already covered by the smogdex, as we don't want to drag on with the statements since it'll get too long. Also changed some wording so that it'll fit in better with the existing Heracross overview.

[SET]
name: Wallbreaker
move 1: Close Combat
move 2: Pin Missile Earthquake
move 3: Swords Dance
move 4: Rock Blast
item: Heracronite
ability: Moxie
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

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

* Close Combat is Mega Heracross's main STAB, letting it break through bulky Normal-, Steel- and Ice-types such as Porygon2, Skarmory and Avalugg, respectively.
* Earthquake (can move up what you have in OO).
* Pin Missile is the alternate STAB; thanks to Skill Link it will always hit 5 times. It OHKOes defensive Mew unboosted, and after a Swords Dance it OHKOes Mega Sableye, Mega Slowbro and Mega Venusaur after Stealth Rock. Even though we're removing Pin Missile from the set, it's okay to keep it in moves. Make it the last bullet, however, and state you'd run it over Earthquake.
* Swords Dance boosts Mega Heracross's Attack stat by 2 stages, allowing it to OHKO Porygon2, Avalugg, Gastrodon and Skarmory after Stealth Rock with Close Combat, and 2HKO Hippowdon with either STAB.
* Rock Blast is boosted by Skill Link, and has excellent coverage with Heracross's STABs, hitting the Bug- and Flying-types that resist them for super effective damage. It OHKOes Zapdos unboosted and defensive Staraptor after Swords Dance.

Set Details
========

* Maximum Speed EVs and a Jolly nature enable Mega Heracross to outrun everything up to Mega Lopunny with Sticky Web down. It also allows it to outrun defensively inclined base 100 Speed Pokémon, such as defensive Staraptor, Zapdos, and defensive Mew, and then OHKO them with Rock Blast or Pin Missile. Given Mega Heracross's already insane Attack stat and access to Swords Dance, running an Adamant nature is often unnecessary.
* Maximum Attack investment gives Mega Heracross as much raw power as possible.
* Moxie is the chosen ability pre mega, as it allows Heracross to potentially KO a weakened Pokémon, pick up an Attack boost and then mega evolve. It can also help you bluff the Choice Scarf set.

Usage Tips
========

* Mega Heracross is primarily a wallbreaker, smashing holes into the opponent's team so that other Pokémon can clear up later. However, it can sweep with support from Sticky Web or against slower more defensively inclined teams, such as Grass and balanced Normal.
* Delay mega evolving until you need the power, bulk, or Skill Link, as it allows Heracross to potentially bluff its Choice Scarf set and possibly pick up an Attack boost with Moxie.
* You could also bluff the Choice Scarf set to attempt to force out faster Pokémon weak to Heracross's STABs, such as Mega Lopunny and Weavile, and use the forced switches to either set up or smash a teammate.
* It can also use its great bulk to set up on passive Pokémon that can't do much damage back it, such as Hippowdon, defensive Landorus-T and Shuckle, though it will need to watch out for Toxic from all of them or, in Shuckle's case, Encore. I would change the defensive Lando-T and Shuckle examples, as they're not super relevant.
* Against frailer, more offensively inclined teams, using Swords Dance is often unnecessary as Mega Heracross is already powerful enough to 2HKO most of the Pokémon found on such teams without boosting. Give some examples of matchups where you don't really need to SD.
* While Mega Heracross has good bulk, avoid switching it into attacks if at all possible, as it needs high health to reliably wallbreak.
* Against Flying teams, it might be best just to spam Rock Blast, as only Skarmory, Celesteela and Landorus-T can reliably tank it, and the latter two lack reliable recovery.
* Thanks to Skill Link, Mega Heracross can also be a good anti-lead as Pin Missile and Rock Blast are able to bypass Focus Sash. Mega Heracross can outrun and OHKO Focus Sash Breloom with an unboosted Pin Missile. Sash leads aren't common enough in Monotype to warrant this bullet, in my opinion.

Team Options
========

* Sticky Web is essential for Mega Heracross, as it allows it to outrun everything slower than Zeraora. Galvantula is the most helpful setter, as in addition to setting the hazard it can use its STAB Thunder to check the Flying-types Mega Heracross is 4X weak to. It can also 2HKO any Toxapex, which can give Mega Heracross problems. I think you should rephrase this and the next bullet to list the Pokemon before you list the niche it provides. The way it's written right now sounds like you're going to talk about all Pokemon that provide that benefit within the bullet, which would mean also talking about Araquanid in this first bullet and Forretress in the second bullet.
* Stealth Rock is also very helpful for Mega Heracross, allowing it to OHKO Skarmory and guaranteeing the OHKO on Mega Venusaur at +2. Armaldo can both set up the hazard and remove it with Rapid Spin, in addition to checking the Flying-types Mega Heracross is 4X weak to. Also helps with Fire-types.
* Scizor is a valuable teammate, as it resists the Fairy- and Psychic-type moves Mega Heracross is weak to. Notably, it can take out Mega Altaria which can use an unboosted Mega Heracross to set up, and Pursuit trap Latios and Latias, which can outrun and OHKO Mega Heracross with Psychic. In turn, Scizor appreciates having a teammate that can remove physical walls such as Hippowdon. Also Pursuit trapping Victini, and is a strong priority user
* Volcarona greatly appreciates Mega Heracross's ability to remove Chansey, Tyranitar and Muk-Alola, which could otherwise hamper its sweep. In turn, it can switch into Will-O-Wisps aimed at Mega Heracross from the likes of Sableye or defensive Mew. Also talk about it being a potent setup sweeper that pairs well with Mega Heracross as they handle eachothers checks (you somewhat elude to this, but could be more specific).
* Buzzwole offers an alternative revenge killer and late game cleaner with Beast Boost, and appreciates Mega Heracross's ability to remove the likes of Hippowdon and Celesteela. Alternate revenge killer? What's the first choice? Talk about using Scarf Buzzwole as it's the most reliable means of speed control outside of Scarf Heracross and is also very effective against Dragon.
* Araquanid can check faster Fire-types for Mega Heracross, such as Mega Charizard Y and Blacephalon. Mega Heracross can check the bulky Grass-types, such as Mega Venusaur and Ferrothorn, that wall Araquanid. Also uses Sticky Web

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
========

* Bullet Seed is boosted by Skill Link and OHKOes defensive Swampert and Gastrodon without a boost and Hippowdon at +2, which Pin Missile and Close Combat can't do. However, it has worse coverage with Mega Heracross's STABs, leaving it walled by Bug- and Flying-types.
* Earthquake can be used to OHKO Toxapex at +2, although it has little use besides that. Heatran is already OHKOed by an unboosted Close Combat and Nidoking is still OHKOed by a +2 Pin Missile or Close Combat. Since this is going to moves, focus on the benefits of Earthquake more. Hitting Toxapex is extremely important for Bug.
* Substitute allows Mega Heracross to set up on more defensive Pokémon such as Toxapex or Gastrodon. However, it dislikes losing out on coverage.

Checks and Counters
========

Bug
--------

**Flying-types**: While many have to watch out for Rock Blast, Flying-types are immune to Sticky Web and can OHKO Heracross with a super effective hit. Mega Charizard Y, Togekiss, Tornadus-T and Crobat are all able to force Mega Heracross out or just straight up OHKO it with their respective STABs. Skarmory can notably survive an unboosted Close Combat and OHKO with Brave Bird. Already covered in the existing analysis

**Toxapex**: Toxapex is able to stomach any attack from even a +2 Mega Heracross and either remove its boosts with Haze or fish for a burn with Scald. However, if Mega Heracross is already at +2 when it comes in, Rock Blast has a good chance to 2HKO even if Mega Heracross gets Burned or Hazed. Removed since we're making Earthquake a main move.

**Bulky Poison-types**: Poison-types resist both of Heracross's STAB moves and take little damage from its coverage. Bulkier ones such as Mega Venusaur and Toxapex are generally able to recover off any damage that Heracross does while threatening it with status or powerful attacks. However, they do need to be wary of Mega Heracross' Earthquake, especially after a Swords Dance Boost. This is an existing bullet in the current Heracross analysis. I added in the last sentence to include MHera. Probably specify in the analysis that this line already exists so that when it's uploaded, it's not duplicated.

**Fairy-types**: Fairy-types resist both of Mega Heracross's STABs and hit it for super effective damage. Clefable can 2HKO Mega Heracross with Moonblast and is never OHKOed by a +2 Rock Blast. While other common Fairy-types like Mega Diancie and Mega Altaria outspeed and easily KO Mega Heracross. Mega Diancie can outrun and OHKO Mega Heracross with Moonblast, and pre mega is immune to Sticky Web thanks to Clear Body. Mega Altaria is not OHKOed by any unboosted attack, and can use Mega Heracross to set up, or simply OHKO it with Return. Choice Scarf Gardevoir outrun Mega Heracross even with Sticky Web down, and OHKOes with either of its STABs, although it is OHKOed by an unboosted Pin Missile.

**Faster Pokémon Mega Heracross is weak to**: Given its average Speed tier, Mega Heracross can easily be forced out or OHKOed by Pokémon such as Blacephalon, Victini, offensive Mew, Latios and Latias with their respective super effective STABs. Special mention goes to Latios and Latias, as they are immune to Sticky Web thanks to Levitate. Already covered by the exists analysis.

QC 1/3 good job after the quoted changes are done. The biggest thing is just not repeating points / saying too much in the overview and the checks & counters as whatever is added here for those two sections will be melded into the existing text on the current heracross (bug) smogdex analysis.

 

[ChrystalFalchion]

Implemented.

 

[ChrystalFalchion]

Just a heads up I'm going to be away from the 20th to the 30th

 

[maroon]

[OVERVIEW]
Bug
========

*Boasting an absolutely incredible base Attack stat, in conjunction with powerful STABs and access to Swords Dance, Mega Heracross is a fearsome wallbreaker on Bug teams.
* Mega Heracross also has great bulk, giving it ample set up opportunities and making it harder to revenge kill.
* However, its Speed is average at best, making it heavily reliant on Sticky Web against more offensive teams.
* Mega Heracross takes up the team's mega slot, preventing you from using Mega Pinsir or Mega Scizor, both of which are arguably superior choices. The former boasts superior Speed and the latter has better defensive typing. Both also have STAB priority which Bug otherwise lacks.

[SET]
name: Wallbreaker
move 1: Close Combat
move 2: Earthquake
move 3: Swords Dance
move 4: Rock Blast
item: Heracronite
ability: Moxie
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

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

* Close Combat is Mega Heracross's main STAB, letting it break through bulky Normal-, Steel- and Ice-types such as Porygon2, Skarmory and Avalugg, respectively.
- give another example aside avalugg (havent actually seen much avalugg on ice monos), its the main stab isnt just used for hitting 'bulky pokemon'.

* Earthquake hits the Poison-types that resist Mega Heracross's STAB, OHKOing Toxapex after a Swords Dance and OHKOing Muk-Alola unboosted most of the time after Stealth Rock.
* Swords Dance boosts Mega Heracross's Attack stat by 2 stages, allowing it to OHKO Porygon2, Gastrodon and Skarmory after Stealth Rock with Close Combat, and 2HKO Hippowdon.
* Rock Blast is boosted by Skill Link, and has excellent coverage with Heracross's STABs, hitting the Bug- and Flying-types that resist them for super effective damage. It OHKOes Zapdos unboosted and defensive Staraptor after Swords Dance.
* If you have teammates that can cover Toxapex, Pin Missile can be used instead of Earthquake as an alternate STAB. Thanks to Skill Link it will always hit 5 times. It OHKOes defensive Mew unboosted, and after a Swords Dance it OHKOes Mega Sableye, Mega Slowbro and Mega Venusaur after Stealth Rock.

Set Details
========

* Maximum Speed EVs and a Jolly nature enable Mega Heracross to outrun everything up to Mega Lopunny with Sticky Web down. It also allows it to outrun defensively inclined base 100 Speed Pokémon, such as defensive Staraptor, Zapdos, and defensive Mew, and then OHKO them with Rock Blast or Pin Missile.
* Maximum Attack investment gives Mega Heracross as much raw power as possible.
* Moxie is the chosen ability pre mega, as it allows Heracross to potentially KO a weakened Pokémon, pick up an Attack boost and then mega evolve. It can also help you bluff the Choice Scarf set.
* Skill Link

Usage Tips
========

* Mega Heracross is primarily a wallbreaker, smashing holes into the opponent's team so that other Pokémon can clear up later. However, it can sweep with support from Sticky Web or against slower, more defensively inclined teams, such as Grass and balanced Normal.
- against defensive teams it beats them with sd, vs offense it appreciates webs support. i get what you mean with normal, but saying sticky web support against slower teams doesnt make sense

* Delay mega evolving until you need the power, bulk, or Skill Link, as it allows Heracross to potentially bluff its Choice Scarf set and possibly pick up an Attack boost with Moxie.
- give an example of when delaying mega evolution is useful like vs steel, after heatrans balloon is popped etc.

* You could also bluff the Choice Scarf set to attempt to force out faster Pokémon weak to Heracross's STABs, such as Mega Lopunny and Weavile, and use the forced switches to either set up or smash a teammate.
- err i would mention that it can bluff scarf for Mega Scizor, focus on things that mega scizor appreciates it bluffing scarf for.

* It can also use its great bulk to set up on passive Pokémon that can't do much damage back it, such as Hippowdon, Porygon2 and Muk-Alola, though it will need to watch out for Toxic from all of them or Fire Punch in Muk's case.
- would take out toxic from this bullet and make an avoiding status bullet. para/burn/poison as they all cripple it

* talk about setting up sd when it can just sweep

* Against frailer, more offensively inclined teams, such as Ice or offensive Dark, using Swords Dance is often unnecessary as Mega Heracross is already powerful enough to 2HKO most of the Pokémon found on such teams without boosting.
* While Mega Heracross has good bulk, avoid switching it into attacks if at all possible, as it needs high health to reliably wallbreak.
* Against Flying teams, it might be best just to spam Rock Blast, as only Skarmory, Celesteela and Landorus-T can reliably tank it, and the latter two lack reliable recovery.
- sounds like against celesteela you want to click rock blast, when sd into cc would be better for the former 2 anyway.

Team Options
========

* Galvantula can set Sticky Web, which is essential for Mega Heracross as it allows it to outrun everything slower than Zeraora. In addition to setting the hazard, it can use its STAB Thunder to check the Flying-types for Mega Heracross is 4X weak to. It can also 2HKO any Toxapex, which can give Mega Heracross problems if it chooses to forgo Earthquake.
* Armaldo is another very useful teammate, as the Stealth Rock it sets allows Mega Heracross to OHKO Skarmory with a +2 Close Combat, as well as guarantee the OHKO on Mega Venusaur with a +2 Pin Missile. It can also remove opposing entry hazards with Rapid Spin, and help check the Fire- and Flying-types Mega Heracross fears, such as Mega Charizard Y and Tornadus-T.
* Scizor is a strong priority user that resists the Psychic- and Fairy-type moves Mega Heracross is weak to, and can OHKO Mega Altaria with Bullet Punch, which could otherwise use an unboosted Mega Heracross to set up. It can also Pursuit trap Latios, Latias and -1 Victini, which can all OHKO Mega Heracross with their respective STABs. In turn, Scizor appreciates having a teammate that can weaken or remove physical walls such as Hippowdon and Skarmory.
- this is a bit wordy, also make it clear that scizor beats fairies for mega heracross

* Volcarona is a potent set up sweeper that pairs well with Mega Heracross. Mega Heracross can remove Chansey, Muk-Alola, Mantine and Toxapex, all of which can stop Volcarona from sweeping. In turn, Volcarona can set up on defensive Mew and Mega Sableye, which can cripple Mega Heracross with Will-O-Wisp if it hasn't boosted yet.
* Choice Scarf Buzzwole is a great revenge killer that can threaten Dragon teams with Ice Punch, and it can also sweep late-game thanks to Beast Boost. It appreciates Mega Heracross's ability to remove physical walls such as Skarmory.
- would mention how they both wear down the others checks

* Araquanid can check faster Fire-types for Mega Heracross, such as Mega Charizard Y and Blacephalon. In turn, Mega Heracross can check the bulky Grass-types, such as Mega Venusaur and Ferrothorn, that wall Araquanid. It can also set up Sticky Web for Mega Heracross, negating its average Speed.
- would also mention how araquanid can absorb will-o-wisp for mega heracross and why tht is useful

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
========

* Bullet Seed is boosted by Skill Link and OHKOes defensive Swampert and Gastrodon without a boost and Hippowdon at +2, which Pin Missile and Close Combat can't do. However, it has worse coverage with Mega Heracross's STABs, leaving it walled by Bug- and Flying-types.
* Substitute allows Mega Heracross to set up on more defensive Pokémon such as Toxapex or Gastrodon. However, it dislikes losing out on coverage.

Checks and Counters
========

Bug
--------

**Bulky Poison-types**: Poison-types resist both of Heracross's STAB moves and take little damage from its coverage. Bulkier ones such as Mega Venusaur and Toxapex are generally able to recover off any damage that Heracross does while threatening it with status or powerful attacks. However, they do need to be wary of Mega Heracross' Earthquake, especially after a Swords Dance Boost.

**Fairy-types**: Fairy-types resist both of Mega Heracross's STABs and hit it for super effective damage. Clefable can 2HKO Mega Heracross with Moonblast and is never OHKOed by a +2 Rock Blast. While other common Fairy-types like Mega Diancie and Mega Altaria outspeed and easily KO Mega Heracross.

QC 2/3

 

[ChrystalFalchion]

Implemented, will write in full later.

 

[ChrystalFalchion]

Alright, now written in full

 

[ChrystalFalchion]

Hi I'm ready for the next QC check now.

 

[ChrystalFalchion]

Hello. Would appreciate QC feedback please.

 

[Vid]

[OVERVIEW]

Bug
========

Mega Heracross's absolutely monstrous Attack stat and access to Swords Dance make it a formidable wallbreaker on Bug teams that has very few safe switchins. It also has great bulk, giving it ample set up opportunities while simultaneously making it harder to revenge kill. However, its Speed is average at best, making it heavily reliant on Sticky Web against more offensive teams. Give some sort of examples of what it breaks sure it helps against offensive teams with sticky webs the overview seems to be lacking in empathizing what mega heracross really is a wallbreaker It also takes up the team's mega slot, preventing you from using Mega Pinsir or Mega Scizor, both of which are arguably superior choices. The former boasts superior Speed and the latter has better defensive typing. Both also have STAB priority, which Bug otherwise lacks.

[SET]
name: Wallbreaker (Bug) please add this so I don't have to later
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Close Combat
move 3: Earthquake change the order please since the set is called wallbreaker
move 4: Rock Blast
item: Heracronite
ability: Moxie
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

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

Reorder the moves as I've put it up thereClose Combat is Mega Heracross's main STAB, letting it break through Normal-, Steel- and Ice-types such as Porygon2, Skarmory and Mamoswine. Earthquake is used in the second slot to hit the Poison-types that resist Mega Heracross's STAB, OHKOing Toxapex after a Swords Dance and OHKOing Muk-Alola most of the time after Stealth Rock. Swords Dance boosts Mega Heracross's Attack stat by 2 stages, allowing it to OHKO Porygon2, Gastrodon and Skarmory after Stealth Rock with Close Combat, and 2HKO Hippowdon Mention that SD makes it an effective wallbreaker. Rock Blast is used in the last slot to hit the Bug- and Flying-types that resist Close Combat and Earthquake. Thanks to Skill Link it will always hit 5 times. It OHKOes Zapdos unboosted and defensive Staraptor after Swords Dance. If you have teammates that reliably deal with Toxapex, Pin Missile can be used instead of Earthquake as an alternate STAB. Thanks to Skill Link it will always hit 5 times. It OHKOes defensive Mew, and after a Swords Dance, it OHKOes Mega Sableye, Mega Slowbro and Mega Venusaur after Stealth Rock. This part is very wordy and many ideas could be merged

Set Details
========

Maximum Speed EVs and a Jolly nature are used to enable Mega Heracross to outrun everything up to Mega Lopunny with Sticky Web down. It also allows it to outrun defensively inclined base 100 Speed Pokémon, such as defensive Staraptor, Zapdos, and defensive Mew, so it can outrun and OHKO them with Rock Blast or Pin Missile, respectively. Maximum Attack investment gives Mega Heracross as much raw power as possible. Moxie is the best ability pre mega evolution, as it allows Heracross to potentially KO a weakened Pokémon, pick up an Attack boost and then mega evolve. It can also help you bluff the Choice Scarf set That is not always true this seems better for usage tips. Skill Link is Mega Heracross's only ability post mega evolvution, which transforms Rock Blast and Pin Missile into effectively base 125 power attacks that bypass Substitutes, Multiscale, Disguise and Focus Sash. I don't think the last part is really necessary just saying something like it makes it 5 hit effectively giving it 125 base power is better

Usage Tips
========

Mega Heracross's main goal is that of a wallbreaker, smashing holes into the opponent's team so that other Pokémon can clear up later That's right but this is more of an overview thing or to be used before an actual tip such as setting up webs or sd. It is especially deadly against defensively inclined teams, such as balanced Normal and Grass, as it can easily find space to set up and wreck havoc Honestly not Grass team is going to beat Bug Meha Pinsir is a bigger threat. However, it will need support from Sticky Web to threaten faster, more offensive teams such as Electric This really isn't a usage tip more like an overview point just adding an example talking about how sticky web support is necessary due to its low speed talking about how one shouldn't send it without Sticky Web against offensive not offensive teams . It's important to delay mega evolving until you need the power, bulk, or Skill Link, as it allows Heracross to potentially bluff its Choice Scarf set and possibly pick up an Attack boost with Moxie. After Heatran's Air Balloon has been popped, base Heracross can outrun and OHKO it with Earthquake, which Mega Heracross couldn't do with its reduced Speed, picking up an Attack boost in the process with Moxie. How is this relevant I don't know if this an example or just something random. You could bluff the Choice Scarf set to lure in checks such as Mantine and Toxapex, and then weaken or outright KO them with Rock Blast and Earthquake, respectively. This doesn't sound like a usage tip more like an overview section like majority of this section most of this info could easily be applied to overview It can also use its great bulk to set up on passive Pokémon that can't do much damage back it, such as Hippowdon, Porygon2 and Muk-Alola, though it will need to watch out for status from all of them, however, as it dislikes bad Poison, burn and paralysis. As Mega Heracross is already so powerful, setting up Swords Dance is not always necessary. Against frailer, more offensively inclined teams, such as Ice or offensive Dark, or types that are inherently weak to Fighting such as Steel or Normal, Mega Heracross is already powerful enough to 2HKO most of the Pokémon found on such teams without boosting. It can even sweep such teams if there is nothing that can reliably OHKO it. While Mega Heracross has good bulk, avoid switching it into attacks if at all possible, as it needs high health to reliably wallbreak.
Setting Up SD on predicted switches since Mega Hera forces them

Unusually for a Bug-type, Mega Heracross can pose a threat to defensive Flying teams, as it can break through the core of Zapdos, Mantine, Celesteela or Skarmory after a Swords Dance with Rock Blast and a boosted Close Combat in the latter two's case. Even Gliscor is 2HKOed by a boosted Rock Blast. However, it should always be wary of switching into the former Pokemon, as it is 2HKOed by Zapdos's Heat Wave and OHKOed by Skarmory's Brave Bird. While uncommon, Celesteela and Maninte can both run Air Slash which also OHKOes Mega Heracross. This information seems out of place the whole usage tip section needs to reworked since it could be appilied into to when to set up SD and be shown in 2 sentences instead of a paragraph

Team Options
========

Galvantula can set Sticky Web, which is essential for Mega Heracross as it allows it to outrun everything slower than Zeraora. In addition to setting the hazard, it can use its STAB Thunder to check Flying-types for Mega Heracross, as well as 2HKO Toxapex, which can give Mega Heracross problems if it chooses to forgo Earthquake. Armaldo is another very useful teammate, as the Stealth Rock it sets allows Mega Heracross to OHKO Skarmory with a +2 Close Combat, as well as guarantee the OHKO on Mega Venusaur with a +2 Pin Missile. It can also remove opposing entry hazards with Rapid Spin, and help check the Fire- and Flying-types Mega Heracross fears, such as Mega Charizard Y and Tornadus-T. Scizor is a very useful teammate that can beat most the Fairy-types that Mega Heracross is weak to, while also Pursuit trapping Latios, Latias and -1 Victini, which can all OHKO Mega Heracross. Scizor appreciates Mega Heracross's ability to weaken or remove physical walls such as Skarmory, Toxapex and Hippowdon. Volcarona is a potent set up sweeper that pairs well with Mega Heracross, as they can weaken and remove each other's checks. Mega Heracross can remove Chansey, Muk-Alola, Mantine and Toxapex, all of which can stop Volcarona from sweeping. In turn, Volcarona can set up on defensive Mew and Mega Sableye, which can cripple Mega Heracross with Will-O-Wisp if it hasn't boosted yet. Choice Scarf Buzzwole is a great partner for Mega Heracross, as the two can wear down each other's checks, such as Mega Sableye, Skarmory, Zapdos and Toxapex. Lastly, Araquanid can absorb Will-O-Wisps aimed at Mega Heracross courtesy of Water Bubble, and in general check faster Fire-types for Mega Heracross, such as Mega Charizard Y and Blacephalon. In turn, Mega Heracross can check the bulky Grass-types, such as Mega Venusaur and Ferrothorn, that wall Araquanid. It can also set up Sticky Web for Mega Heracross, negating its average Speed.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
========

Bullet Seed always hits 5 times thanks to Skill Link, and can be used instead of Earthquake to hit bulky Water and Ground types. It OHKOes Swampert and Gastrodon unboosted, and OHKOes Hippowdon after Swords Dance. Substitute allows Mega Heracross to set up on more defensive Pokémon such as Toxapex or Gastrodon. However, it dislikes losing out on coverage.

Checks and Counters
========

Bug
--------

**Bulky Poison-types**: Poison-types resist both of Heracross's STAB moves and take little damage from its coverage. Bulkier ones such as Mega Venusaur and Toxapex are generally able to recover off any damage that Heracross does while threatening it with status or powerful attacks. However, they do need to be wary of Mega Heracross' Earthquake, especially after a Swords Dance Boost.

**Fairy-types**: Fairy-types resist both of Mega Heracross's STABs and hit it for super effective damage. Clefable can 2HKO Mega Heracross with Moonblast and is never OHKOed by a +2 Rock Blast. While other common Fairy-types like Mega Diancie and Mega Altaria outspeed and easily KO Mega Heracross.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[<ChrystalFalchion>]]
- <Type> analysis by: [[<ChrystalFalchion>]]
- Quality checked by: [[<Moosical>, <userid1>], [<moosical>, <userid2>], [<username3>, <userid3>]]
- Grammar checked by: [[<username1>, <userid1>], [<username2>, <username2>]]

Please rework the usage tips before putting it into GP
QC 3/3

 

[ChrystalFalchion]

OK made the suggested change and rewritten Usage Tips. I've also included Forretress at the end of Team Options, as it's now B Rank on the VR.

 

[ChrystalFalchion]

OK ready for GP now

 

[frostration]

amcheck! use what you'd like, and let me know if you have any questions.
add | remove | [comments] | [AC = add comma] | [RC = remove comma] | [AH = add hyphen] | [RH = remove hyphen]

amcheck

[OVERVIEW]

Bug
========

Mega Heracross's absolutely monstrous Attack stat and access to Swords Dance make it a formidable wallbreaker on Bug teams that can destroy many walls, [AC] such as Skarmory, Celesteela, Mantine, [AC] and Toxapex. It also has great bulk, giving it ample set up setup opportunities while simultaneously making it harder to revenge kill. However, its Speed is average at best, making it heavily reliant on Sticky Web support against more offensive teams. It also takes up the team's mega Mega slot, preventing you from using Mega Pinsir or Mega Scizor, both of which are arguably superior choices. The former boasts superior Speed, [AC] and the latter has a better defensive typing. Both also have STAB priority, which Bug otherwise lacks.

[SET]
name: Wallbreaker (Bug)
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Close Combat
move 3: Rock Blast
move 4: Earthquake
item: Heracronite
ability: Moxie
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

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

Swords Dance boosts Mega Heracross's already massive Attack stat by 2 stages, letting it break through almost any wall. Close Combat is Mega Heracross's STAB move, letting it break through Normal-, Steel-, [AC] and Ice-types such as like Porygon2, Skarmory, [AC] and Mamoswine. Rock Blast has fantastic coverage with Close Combat, hitting the Bug- and Flying-types that resist it for super effective damage. Thanks to Skill Link, [AC] it Rock Blast will always hit 5 times. It OHKOes Zapdos unboosted and defensive Staraptor after a Swords Dance. Earthquake is used in the last slot to hit the Poison-types that resist Mega Heracross's STAB moves, OHKOing Toxapex after a Swords Dance and OHKOing Muk-Alola Alolan Muk unboosted most of the time after Stealth Rock damage. If you have teammates that can reliably deal with Toxapex, Pin Missile can be used instead of Earthquake as an alternate STAB move that will always hit 5 times thanks to Skill Link. Thanks to Skill Link it will always hit 5 times. [combined the two sentences as they lead into each other]

Set Details
========

Maximum Speed EVs and a Jolly nature are used to enable Mega Heracross to outrun Mega Lopunny with Sticky Web down. It They also allows [you're referring to the EVs and nature] it Mega Heracross to outrun and OHKO defensively inclined base 100 Speed Pokémon Pokemon, such as defensive Staraptor [RC] and defensive Mew, so it can outrun and OHKO them before they have a chance to OHKO with Brave Bird and or cripple Mega Heracross with a burn, respectively. Maximum Attack investment gives Mega Heracross as much raw power as possible. Moxie is the most useful ability before mega evolving Mega Evolving, as Attack boosts it Heracross might gain will transfer over. Skill Link is Mega Heracross's only ability post mega evolvution post-Mega Evolution, which allows Rock Blast and Pin Missile to always hit 5 times. It OHKOes defensive Mew, and after a Swords Dance, it OHKOes Mega Sableye, Mega Slowbro, [AC] and Mega Venusaur after Stealth Rock.

Usage Tips
========

Mega Heracross is most effective in the early- to or mid-game stage of the match, weakening or outright removing defensive cores so that its teammates can clear up later in the match. Try to set up Swords Dance on Pokemon that don't stay in on Mega Heracross, such as Ferrothorn, Chansey, [AC] and Tyranitar, or Pokemon that can't do much back to it, such as Manibuzz Mandibuzz. As Mega Heracross's Attack is already so massive, setting up Swords Dance isn't always necessary [RH] against teams that are inherantly inherently weak to Fighting, such as Normal and Dark, it as Mega Heracross can already 2HKO most walls those teams have without a boost. Do not mega evolve Mega Evolve Heracross until you need the power, bulk, [AC] or Skill Link, as Moxie allows you to potentially pick up Attack boosts without having to use Swords Dance. If paired with Scizor, you could also bluff the Choice Scarf set, as your opponent might think you're running Mega Scizor instead. As Mega Heracross needs high health to reliably wallbreak, avoid switching it into attacks if possible. Don't be too hasty switching into walls either, as it hates being badly Poisoned or Paralysed, and of course a burn will utterly cripple it badly poisoned, paralyzed, or burned. Bringing it in via U-turn or Volt Switch [RC] or after a teammate has fainted [RC] is often the preferred method.

Team Options
========

Galvantula can set Sticky Web, which is essential for Mega Heracross as because it allows it Mega Heracross to outrun everything slower than Zeraora. In addition to setting the entry hazard, it can use its STAB Thunder to check Flying-types for Mega Heracross [RC] as well as and 2HKO Toxapex, which can give Mega Heracross problems if it chooses to forgo Earthquake. Armaldo is another very useful teammate, as the Stealth Rock it sets allows Mega Heracross to OHKO Skarmory with a +2 Close Combat, as well as guarantee the OHKO on Mega Venusaur with a +2 Pin Missile. It can also remove opposing entry hazards with Rapid Spin [RC] as well as and help check the Fire- and Flying-types Mega Heracross fears, such as Mega Charizard Y and Tornadus-T. Scizor is a very useful teammate that can beat most of the Fairy-types that Mega Heracross is weak to [RC] and bring it Mega Heracross in safely with U-turn [RC] while also Pursuit trapping Latios, Latias, [AC] and -1 Victini, which can all OHKO Mega Heracross. Scizor appreciates Mega Heracross's ability to weaken or remove physical walls, [AC] such as Skarmory, Toxapex and Hippowdon. Volcarona is a potent set up setup sweeper that pairs well with Mega Heracross, as they can weaken and remove each other's checks. Mega Heracross can remove Chansey, Muk-Alola Alolan Muk, Mantine, [AC] and Toxapex, all of which can stop Volcarona from sweeping. In turn, Volcarona can set up on defensive Mew and Mega Sableye, both of which can cripple Mega Heracross with Will-O-Wisp if it hasn't boosted yet. Choice Scarf Buzzwole is a great partner for Mega Heracross, as the two can wear down each other's checks, such as Mega Sableye, Skarmory, Zapdos, [AC] and Toxapex. Araquanid can absorb Will-O-Wisps aimed at Mega Heracross courtesy of Water Bubble, set up Sticky Web to negate Mega Heracross's average Speed, and in general check Fire-types for Mega Heracross, such as Mega Charizard Y and Blacephalon. In turn, Mega Heracross can check the bulky Grass-types, such as Mega Venusaur and Ferrothorn, that wall Araquanid. Lastly, Forretress can set up Stealth Rock and Spikes to give Mega Heracross an easier time wallbreaking, remove them with Rapid Spin, and bring it Mega Heracross in safely with a slow Volt Switch.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
========

Bullet Seed always hits 5 times thanks to Skill Link, and can be used instead of Earthquake to hit bulky Water- and Ground-types [AH]. It OHKOes Swampert and Gastrodon unboosted [RC] and OHKOes Hippowdon after Swords Dance. Substitute allows Mega Heracross to set up on more defensive Pokémon Pokemon, [AC] such as Toxapex or and Gastrodon. However, it Mega Heracross dislikes losing out on coverage.

Checks and Counters
========

Bug
--------

**Bulky Poison-types**: Poison-types resist both of Heracross's STAB moves and take little damage from its coverage. Bulkier ones, [AC] such as Mega Venusaur and Toxapex, [AC] are generally able to recover off any damage that Heracross does while threatening it with status or powerful attacks. However, they do need to be wary of Mega Heracross's Earthquake, especially after a Swords Dance Boost boost.

**Fairy-types**: Fairy-types resist both of Mega Heracross's STABs STAB moves and hit it for super effective damage. Clefable can 2HKO Mega Heracross with Moonblast and is never OHKOed by a +2 Rock Blast. While other Other common Fairy-types like Mega Diancie and Mega Altaria outspeed and easily KO Mega Heracross.

 

[Lumari]

you STOLE my backup comments colour for your punctuation changes

excellent stuff as always though

frostration: add | remove | [comments] | [AC = add comma] | [RC = remove comma] | [AH = add hyphen] | [RH = remove hyphen]
tdp: add / fix remove (comments)

amcheck with comments and additions

[OVERVIEW]

Bug
========

Mega Heracross's absolutely monstrous Attack stat and access to Swords Dance make it a formidable wallbreaker on Bug teams that can destroy many walls, [AC] such as Skarmory, Celesteela, Mantine, [AC] and Toxapex. It also has great bulk, giving it ample set up setup opportunities while simultaneously making it harder to revenge kill. However, its Speed is average at best, making it heavily reliant on Sticky Web support against more offensive teams. It also takes up the team's mega Mega slot, preventing you from using Mega Pinsir or Mega Scizor, both of which are arguably superior choices. The former boasts superior Speed, [AC] and the latter has a better defensive typing. Both also have STAB priority, which Bug otherwise lacks.

[SET]
name: Wallbreaker (Bug)
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Close Combat
move 3: Rock Blast
move 4: Earthquake
item: Heracronite
ability: Moxie
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

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

Swords Dance boosts Mega Heracross's already massive Attack stat by two stages, letting it break through almost any wall. Close Combat is Mega Heracross's STAB move, letting it break through Normal-, Steel-, [AC] and Ice-types such as like (not particularly needed) Porygon2, Skarmory, [AC] and Mamoswine. Rock Blast has fantastic coverage with Close Combat, hitting the Bug- and Flying-types that resist it the latter for super effective damage. Thanks to Skill Link, [AC] it Rock Blast will always hit five times. It OHKOes Zapdos unboosted and defensive Staraptor after a Swords Dance. Earthquake is used in the last slot to hit the Poison-types that resist Mega Heracross's STAB moves, OHKOing Toxapex after a Swords Dance and OHKOing Muk-Alola Alolan Muk unboosted most of the time after Stealth Rock damage. (not rly needed) If you have teammates that can reliably deal with Toxapex, Pin Missile can be used instead of Earthquake as an alternate STAB move that will always hit 5 times thanks to Skill Link. Thanks to Skill Link it will always hit 5 times. [combined the two sentences as they lead into each other] (ya)

Set Details
========

Maximum Speed EVs and a Jolly nature are used to enable Mega Heracross to outrun Mega Lopunny with Sticky Web down. It They also allows [you're referring to the EVs and nature] it Mega Heracross to outrun(combine the sentences and do "as well as to outrun" imo) and OHKO defensively inclined base 100 Speed Pokémon Pokemon, such as defensive Staraptor [RC] and defensive Mew, so it can outrun and OHKO them before they have a chance to OHKO with Brave Bird and or cripple Mega Heracross with a burn, respectively. Maximum Attack investment gives Mega Heracross as much raw power as possible. Moxie is the most useful ability before mega evolving Mega Evolving, as Attack boosts it Heracross might gain will transfer over. Skill Link is Mega Heracross's only ability post mega evolvution post-Mega Evolution, which allows Rock Blast and Pin Missile to always hit 5 times. It OHKOes defensive Mew, and after a Swords Dance, it OHKOes Mega Sableye, Mega Slowbro, [AC] and Mega Venusaur after Stealth Rock.

Usage Tips
========

Mega Heracross is most effective in the early- to or mid-game stage of the match, weakening or outright removing defensive cores so that its teammates can clear up later in the match. Try to set up Swords Dance on Pokemon that don't stay in on Mega Heracross, such as Ferrothorn, Chansey, [AC] and Tyranitar, or Pokemon that can't do much back to it, such as Manibuzz Mandibuzz. As Mega Heracross's Attack is already so massive, setting up Swords Dance isn't always necessary [RH] against teams that are inherantly inherently weak to Fighting, such as Normal and Dark, it as Mega Heracross can already 2HKO most walls those teams have without a boost. Do not mega evolve Mega Evolve Heracross until you need the power, bulk, [AC] or Skill Link, as Moxie allows you to potentially pick up Attack boosts without having to use Swords Dance. If paired with Scizor, you could also bluff the Choice Scarf set, as your opponent might think you're running Mega Scizor instead. As Mega Heracross needs high health to reliably wallbreak, avoid switching it into attacks if possible. Don't be too hasty switching into walls either, as it hates being badly Poisoned or Paralysed, and of course a burn will utterly cripple it badly poisoned, paralyzed, or burned. (simplifying the burn part isn't too necessary but don't care much either way) Bringing it in via U-turn or Volt Switch [RC] or after a teammate has fainted [RC] is often the preferred method.

Team Options
========

Galvantula can set Sticky Web, which is essential for Mega Heracross as because it allows it Mega Heracross to outrun everything slower than Zeraora. In addition to setting the entry hazard, it can use its STAB Thunder to check Flying-types for Mega Heracross [RC] as well as and 2HKO Toxapex, which can give Mega Heracross problems if it chooses to forgo Earthquake. Armaldo is another very useful teammate, as the Stealth Rock it sets allows Mega Heracross to OHKO Skarmory with a +2 Close Combat, as well as guarantee the OHKO on Mega Venusaur with a +2 Pin Missile. It can also remove opposing entry hazards with Rapid Spin [RC] as well as and help check the Fire- and Flying-types Mega Heracross fears, such as Mega Charizard Y and Tornadus-T. Scizor is a very useful teammate that can beat most of the Fairy-types that Mega Heracross is weak to [RC] and bring it Mega Heracross in safely with U-turn [RC] while also Pursuit trapping Latios, Latias, [AC] and -1 Victini, which can all OHKO Mega Heracross. Scizor appreciates Mega Heracross's ability to weaken or remove physical walls, [AC] such as Skarmory, Toxapex and Hippowdon. Volcarona is a potent set up setup sweeper that pairs well with Mega Heracross, as they can weaken and remove each other's checks. Mega Heracross can remove Chansey, Muk-Alola Alolan Muk, Mantine, [AC] and Toxapex, all of which can stop Volcarona from sweeping. In turn, Volcarona can set up on defensive Mew and Mega Sableye, both of which can cripple Mega Heracross with Will-O-Wisp if it hasn't boosted yet. Choice Scarf Buzzwole is a great partner for Mega Heracross, as the two can wear down each other's checks, such as Mega Sableye, Skarmory, Zapdos, [AC] and Toxapex. Araquanid can absorb Will-O-Wisps aimed at Mega Heracross courtesy of Water Bubble, set up Sticky Web to negate Mega Heracross's average Speed, and in general check Fire-types for Mega Heracross, such as Mega Charizard Y and Blacephalon. In turn, Mega Heracross can check the bulky Grass-types, such as Mega Venusaur and Ferrothorn, that wall Araquanid. Lastly, Forretress can set up Stealth Rock and Spikes to give Mega Heracross an easier time wallbreaking, remove them with Rapid Spin, and bring it Mega Heracross in safely with a slow Volt Switch.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
========

Bullet Seed always hits 5 times thanks to Skill Link (RC) and can be used instead of Earthquake to hit bulky Water- and Ground-types [AH]. It OHKOes Swampert and Gastrodon unboosted [RC] and OHKOes Hippowdon after Swords Dance. Substitute allows Mega Heracross to set up on more defensive Pokémon Pokemon, [AC] such as Toxapex or and Gastrodon. However, it Mega Heracross dislikes losing out on coverage.

Checks and Counters
========

Bug
--------

**Bulky Poison-types**: Poison-types resist both of Heracross's STAB moves and take little damage from its coverage. Bulkier ones, [AC] such as Mega Venusaur and Toxapex, [AC] are generally able to recover off any damage that Heracross does while threatening it with status or powerful attacks. However, they do need to be wary of Mega Heracross's Earthquake, especially after a Swords Dance Boost boost.

**Fairy-types**: Fairy-types resist both of Mega Heracross's STABs STAB moves and hit it for super effective damage. Clefable can 2HKO Mega Heracross with Moonblast and is never OHKOed by a +2 Rock Blast. While other Other common Fairy-types like Mega Diancie and Mega Altaria outspeed and easily KO Mega Heracross.

GP 1/2

 

[ChrystalFalchion]

Thanks for the work GP will make the changes this weekend.

 

[ChrystalFalchion]

Implemented

 

[ChrystalFalchion]

Ready for GP 2

 

[Electrolyte]

add remove (comments)

Hide

[OVERVIEW]

Bug
========

Mega Heracross's monstrous Attack stat and access to Swords Dance make it a formidable wallbreaker on Bug teams that can destroy many walls, such as Skarmory, Celesteela, Mantine, and Toxapex. It also has great bulk, giving it ample setup opportunities while simultaneously making it harder to revenge kill. However, its Speed is average at best, making it heavily reliant on Sticky Web support against more offensive teams. It also takes up the team's Mega slot, preventing you from using the use of Mega Pinsir or Mega Scizor, both of which are arguably superior choices. The former boasts superior Speed, and the latter has a better defensive typing. Both also have STAB priority, which Bug otherwise lacks.

[SET]
name: Wallbreaker (Bug)
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Close Combat
move 3: Rock Blast
move 4: Earthquake
item: Heracronite
ability: Moxie
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

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

Swords Dance boosts Mega Heracross's already massive Attack stat by two stages, letting it break through almost any wall. Close Combat is Mega Heracross's STAB move, letting it break through Normal-, Steel-, and Ice-types like Porygon2, Skarmory, and Mamoswine. Rock Blast has fantastic coverage with Close Combat, hitting the Bug- and Flying-types that resist the latter for super effective damage. Thanks to Skill Link, Rock Blast will always hit five times. It OHKOes Zapdos unboosted and defensive Staraptor after a Swords Dance. Earthquake is used in the last slot to hit the Poison-types that resist Mega Heracross's STAB moves, OHKOing Toxapex after a Swords Dance. If you have teammates that can reliably deal with Toxapex, Pin Missile can be used instead of Earthquake as an alternate STAB move that will always hit 5 times thanks to Skill Link. It OHKOes defensive Mew, and after a Swords Dance, it OHKOes Mega Sableye, Mega Slowbro, and Mega Venusaur after Stealth Rock damage.

Set Details
========

Maximum Speed EVs and a Jolly nature are used to enable Mega Heracross to outrun Mega Lopunny with Sticky Web down, as well as to outrun and OHKO defensively inclined base 100 Speed Pokemon, such as defensive Staraptor and defensive Mew, before they have a chance to OHKO with Brave Bird or cripple Mega Heracross with a burn. Maximum Attack investment gives Mega Heracross as much raw power as possible. Moxie is the most useful ability before Mega Evolving, as Attack boosts Heracross might gain will transfer over. Skill Link is Mega Heracross's only ability post-Mega Evolution, which allows Rock Blast and Pin Missile to always hit 5 times.

Usage Tips
========

Mega Heracross is most effective in the early- or mid-game stage of the match, weakening or outright removing defensive cores so that its teammates can clear up later in the match. Try to set up Swords Dance on Pokemon that don't stay in on Mega Heracross, such as Ferrothorn, Chansey, and Tyranitar, or Pokemon that can't do much back to it, such as Mandibuzz. As Mega Heracross's Attack is already so massive, setting up Swords Dance isn't always necessary against teams that are inherently weak to Fighting, such as Normal and Dark, as Mega Heracross can already 2HKO most walls those teams have without a boost. Do not Mega Evolve(space) Heracross until you need the power, bulk, or Skill Link, as Moxie allows you to potentially pick up Attack boosts without having to use Swords Dance. If paired with Scizor, you could also bluff the Choice Scarf set, as your opponent might think you're running Mega Scizor instead. As Mega Heracross needs high health to reliably wallbreak, avoid switching it into attacks if possible. Don't be too hasty switching into walls either, as it hates being badly poisoned, paralyzed, or burned. Bringing it in via U-turn or Volt Switch or after a teammate has fainted is often the preferred method.

Team Options
========

Galvantula can set Sticky Web, which is essential for Mega Heracross to outrun everything slower than Zeraora. In addition to setting the entry hazard, it can use its STAB Thunder to check Flying-types for Mega Heracross and 2HKO Toxapex, which can give Mega Heracross problems if it chooses to forgo Earthquake. Armaldo is another very useful teammate, as the Stealth Rock it sets allows Mega Heracross to OHKO Skarmory with a +2 Close Combat, as well as guarantee the OHKO on Mega Venusaur with a +2 Pin Missile. It can also remove opposing entry hazards with Rapid Spin and help check the Fire- and Flying-types Mega Heracross fears, such as Mega Charizard Y and Tornadus-T. Scizor is a very useful teammate that can beat most of(add space) the Fairy-types that Mega Heracross is weak to and bring Mega Heracross in safely with U-turn while also Pursuit trapping Latios, Latias, and -1 Victini, which can all OHKO Mega Heracross. Scizor appreciates Mega Heracross's ability to weaken or remove physical walls, such as Skarmory, Toxapex,(AC) and Hippowdon. Volcarona is a potent setup sweeper that pairs well with Mega Heracross, as they can weaken and remove each other's checks. Mega Heracross can remove Chansey, Alolan Muk, Mantine, and Toxapex, all of which can stop Volcarona from sweeping. In return, Volcarona can set up on defensive Mew and Mega Sableye, both of which can cripple Mega Heracross with Will-O-Wisp if it hasn't boosted yet. Choice Scarf Buzzwole is a great partner for Mega Heracross, as the two can wear down each other's checks, such as Mega Sableye, Skarmory, Zapdos, and Toxapex. Araquanid can absorb Will-O-Wisps aimed at Mega Heracross courtesy of Water Bubble, set up Sticky Web to negate Mega Heracross's average Speed, and check Fire-types for Mega Heracross, such as Mega Charizard Y and Blacephalon. In return, Mega Heracross can check the bulky Grass-types, such as Mega Venusaur and Ferrothorn, that wall Araquanid. Lastly, Forretress can set up Stealth Rock and Spikes to give Mega Heracross an easier time wallbreaking, remove them with Rapid Spin, and bring Mega Heracross in safely with a slow Volt Switch.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
========

Bullet Seed always hits 5 times thanks to Skill Link and can be used instead of Earthquake to hit bulky Water- and Ground-types. It OHKOes Swampert and Gastrodon unboosted and OHKOes Hippowdon after Swords Dance. Substitute allows Mega Heracross to set up on more defensive Pokemon, such as Toxapex and(add space) Gastrodon. However, Mega Heracross dislikes losing out on coverage.

Checks and Counters
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Bug
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**Bulky Poison-types**: Poison-types resist both of Heracross's STAB moves and take little damage from its coverage. Bulkier ones, such as Mega Venusaur and Toxapex, are generally able to recover off any damage that Heracross does while threatening it with status or powerful attacks. However, they do need to be wary of Mega Heracross's Earthquake, especially after a Swords Dance boost.

**Fairy-types**: Fairy-types resist both of Mega Heracros's STAB moves and hit it for super effective damage. Clefable can 2HKO Mega Heracross with Moonblast and is never OHKOed by a +2 Rock Blast. Other common Fairy-types like Mega Diancie and Mega Altaria outspeed and easily KO Mega Heracross.

GP 2/2

 

[ChrystalFalchion]

Implemented

 

[Eien]

Uploaded