[Monotype] Sylveon

Confluxx [Old]

Banned deucer.
QC: Eien / Zarif / SirSkit
GP: Rare Poison / GatoDelFuego

[OVERVIEW]

Sylveon has great Special Attack, impressive bulk, and a good movepool, all of which allow it to perform a number of roles effectively. It can be a great wallbreaker with Choice Specs thanks to its access to STAB Pixilate Hyper Voice. Its access to Heal Bell, Wish, Calm Mind, and Baton Pass allow it to function as a cleric, bulky setup sweeper, or Baton Pass user. It has decent coverage options in Shadow Ball and Psyshock, the latter of which can hit Poison-types that would try to switch in on a Fairy-type attack. However, Sylveon's low Defense limits its defensive capabilities. Its low Speed makes it easy to revenge kill and means that it will often need to take a hit first before it can attack. Its good Special Defense makes this less of a problem, but physical attackers can still take advantage of it.

[SET]
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Hyper Voice
move 2: Psyshock
move 3: Hidden Power Fire / Hidden Power Ground
move 4: Shadow Ball
item: Choice Specs
ability: Pixilate
nature: Modest
evs: 240 HP / 252 SpA / 16 Spe

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

Hyper Voice is Sylveon's strongest attack, as it is a STAB move, is boosted by Pixilate, and hits the Pokemon regardless of Substitute. Psyshock hits Poison-types that try to switch in on a Fairy-type attack such as Mega Venusaur and Tentacruel. Hidden Power Fire hits Steel-types such as Ferrothorn and Scizor, while Hidden Power Ground can be used to hit Heatran, which otherwise walls Sylveon. However, hitting Scizor is far more important than hitting Heatran because Diamond Storm 2HKOs offensive Heatran most of the time. Shadow Ball hits Pokemon such as Jirachi and Doublade, which are big threats to Sylveon. Alternatively, Baton Pass can be used over Shadow Ball to gain momentum because Choice Specs Sylveon often forces the foe to switch out. However, the coverage that Shadow Ball provides is preferred.

Set Details
========

Maximum investment in HP and Special Attack with a Modest nature allows Sylveon to hit as hard as possible and tank hits more effectively. 16 EVs in Speed are useful for outspeeding uninvested base 60 Speed Pokemon such as Clefable. This is especially helpful against Pokemon like Tyranitar, which Sylveon can take out with Hyper Voice without having to take a Stone Edge first. Pixilate increases the power of Hyper Voice and turns it into a Fairy-type STAB move. Choice Specs increases Sylveon's Special Attack, making it an amazing wallbreaker.

Usage Tips
========

There aren't many Pokemon that appreciate taking a Choice Specs-boosted Hyper Voice from Sylveon, so it can be used to wallbreak at any point of the game. It excels at breaking down most passive walls unless they're very bulky and resist Fairy. The boosts from Pixilate and STAB make Hyper Voice the superior attack most of the time because Sylveon's other coverage moves need to be super effective in order to deal more damage than it. If running Baton Pass, Sylveon should use it when predicting a check or counter to switch in. Even though it's going to get outsped most of the time, thanks to its great Special Defense, Sylveon can eat up special attacks and hit back very hard. Sylveon's good Special Defense also lets it be a decent pivot to neutral or resisted attacks. Due to its low Speed and Defense, it should watch out for physical attackers and only come in after a teammate faints unless it can deal really well with the Pokemon it's switching in on. Sylveon should avoid coming in on entry hazards and getting inflicted with status because it can be crippled and worn down easily.

Team Options
========

Klefki is a great partner for Sylveon because it can set up dual screens, allowing Sylveon to take hits even better, spread paralysis, which Sylveon greatly appreciates, and stack Spikes. Klefki also has an immunity to poison and takes neutral damage from Steel-type moves, which all Fairy-type teams appreciate. Clefable also has the ability to spread paralysis and set up Stealth Rock, which helps Sylveon wallbreak more easily. Clefable also functions as a status absorber thanks to its Magic Guard ability. Azumarill can deal with Pokemon that wall Sylveon such as Heatran and Empoleon thanks to its Water typing, high Attack, and access to Superpower. Gardevoir is a great Choice Scarf user that checks Poison-types that threaten Sylveon such as Gengar and Nidoking. It also checks Sand Rush Excadrill thanks to its Trace ability. Togekiss is immune to Ground, which helps Fairy's lack of Pokemon that resist Ground, and it has access to Fire Blast and Aura Sphere, which allows it to check Steel-types. Togekiss can also spread paralysis with Thunder Wave, cure Sylveon's status with Heal Bell if it's a support variant, and get rid of entry hazards with Defog, which helps Sylveon's longevity. Mega Diancie's Magic Bounce ability helps Sylveon dodge status moves and keeps hazards off the field. Mega Diancie also appreciates Choice Specs Sylveon's wallbreaking power, as it's unable to get past walls such as Mew and Gliscor on its own.

[SET]
name: Substitute + Calm Mind
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Hyper Voice
move 3: Substitute
move 4: Baton Pass / Wish
item: Leftovers
ability: Pixilate
evs: 252 HP / 240 Def / 16 Spe

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

Calm Mind boosts Sylveon's already decent Special Attack and Special Defense, making it bulkier and more powerful. Hyper Voice is Sylveon's powerful STAB attack, which is Pixilate boosted and hits Pokemon regardless of Substitute. Substitute allows Sylveon to dodge status moves from slower Pokemon or gain momentum when forcing a switch. Baton Pass can be used for pivoting as well as passing Calm Mind boosts or a Substitute to a teammate. Alternatively, Wish can be used for recovery or to pass to a teammate.

Set Details
========

16 EVs in Speed allow Sylveon to outspeed uninvested base 60 Pokemon such as Tyranitar, Clefable, and Swampert. The rest of the EVs are invested in HP and Defense to make Sylveon as bulky as possible so it can take both physical and special hits after it uses Calm Mind. Maximum investment in HP also helps it pass bigger Wishes and improves the bulk of its Substitute. Leftovers gives Sylveon some longevity and is its only form of recovery if not running Wish. Pixilate boosts the power of Hyper Voice and makes it a Fairy-type STAB attack.

Usage Tips
========

Sylveon should be used as a bulky setup sweeper once its checks have been removed or weakened or to pass its boosts to a teammate. Thanks to the Defense investment and its natural special bulk, it can be used as a bulky pivot. Its low Speed stat helps it get off a slow Baton Pass to safely bring in a teammate or take advantage of switches. Sylveon can get up a Substitute against slower and passive Pokemon such as Slowbro and Porygon2 or when it forces the foe to switch out, which can also be done by bluffing a Choice Specs set. If running Wish, Sylveon should be kept as healthy as possible, giving it more chances to use Substitute or pivot into attacks. It should be kept away from status moves because they can cripple its sweeping potential or longevity. While Sylveon can be an excellent bulky late-game sweeper, its primary role is to pass Calm Mind boosts or a Substitute to its teammates.

Team Options
========

Klefki is a great partner for Sylveon thanks to its immunity to Poison-type attacks and neutrality to Steel. Klefki is also able to spread paralysis, stack Spikes, and get up dual screens, which give Sylveon more opportunities to set up. Clefable works well with Sylveon because its Magic Guard ability allows it to absorb statuses. Clefable is able to spread paralysis like Klefki, but it can also set up Stealth Rock. Furthermore, Clefable is free to run a utility set due to Sylveon already acting as a wincon with Calm Mind. Azumarill is a great partner for Sylveon because it can get rid of bulky Steel-types that wall Sylveon such as Heatran and Empoleon. Azumarill also has more freedom throughout the match because it doesn't need to stay passive and preserve its health to set up late-game thanks to Sylveon's ability to pass Wishes. Gardevoir is a great Choice Scarf user on Fairy and works well with Sylveon because it can get rid of Poison-type threats such as Nidoking. Togekiss's access to Fire Blast and Aura Sphere makes it a decent partner for Sylveon because it can dent Steel-types that annoy Sylveon, as well as hit Mega Venusaur with Air Slash. Togekiss is also immune to Ground-type attacks, which Fairy-type teams appreciate, since they don't have another solid answer. Another thing that Sylveon appreciates from Togekiss is its access to Heal Bell, which helps Sylveon's issue with status. Mega Diancie is a solid partner for Sylveon because its Magic Bounce ability bounces back status and entry hazards, which annoy Sylveon. It's also an excellent receiver of Sylveon's Wish passes due to its high Speed, wallbreaking abilities, and lack of recovery.

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

A utility set with Wish, Protect, Hyper Voice, and Toxic or Heal Bell can be used, but it's heavily inferior to Sylveon's other sets because Clefable is much more effective at running that type of set.

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

**Chansey**: Chansey's massive special bulk allows it to switch in on any variant of Sylveon and check it effectively.

**Steel-types**: Bulky Steel-types such as Heatran and Empoleon can switch into all of Sylveon's moves and force it out, while offensive Steel-types such as Excadrill and Bisharp outspeed and OHKO it with Iron Head but don't want to switch into a Choice Specs-boosted attack. Heatran does need to be careful of Hidden Power Ground, however.

**Scizor**: Any variant of Scizor can check Sylveon with Bullet Punch, but it should be careful of switching in because Choice Specs-boosted Hyper Voice does a lot of damage, and Sylveon can possess Hidden Power Fire. If Sylveon isn't locked into Hidden Power Fire, Mega Scizor can use it as setup fodder.

**Poison-types**: Poison-types such as Mega Venusaur and Tentacruel can eat up Hyper Voice and check Sylveon. They have to watch out for Psyshock, however.

**Strong Physical Attackers**: Sylveon's Defense is not that impressive, so it should be used carefully around physical attackers and revenge killers such as Entei and Diggersby.

**Status**: Sylveon doesn't appreciate status conditions because they can cripple its longevity and its wallbreaking or sweeping potential.

**Residual Damage**: The Choice Specs set lacks recovery, so residual damage from entry hazards and status strongly cripples Sylveon's longevity.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Choice Specs:
Moves:
- Examples of what Psyshock hits are good. Poison-types such as Mega Venusaur, which is 2HKOed after Stealth Rock, and Tentacruel probably?
- Explain that Hidden Power Fire is generally better, since being able to hit Mega Scizor, the biggest threat to Fairy, is more important than being able to hit Heatran.
- Baton Pass might bounce Sylveon out of tricky positions, but

Usage Tips:
- Due to the lack of STAB on its coverage moves and the power of Pixilate, Sylveon will generally be spamming Hyper Voice where it's not resisted. In fact, even when it is resisted, its coverage moves must be super effective to outdamage it.
- If it has it, Sylveon should use Baton Pass when it predicts a check or counter to come in that it cannot handle.

Team Options:
- Mega Diancie greatly appreciates Sylveon's wallbreaking power, as it is incapable of itself breaking through walls such as Gliscor and Mew. In return, Mega Diancie's Magic Bounce helps it reflect status moves aimed at Sylveon and entry hazards off its side of the field.

Substitute + Calm Mind:
Set Details:
- Note that its HP is maximized to improve the bulk of the Substitute or Wish that it can pass to teammates.

Usage Tips:
- Adding to the line about setting up Substitute, try to bluff a Choice Specs set. This bluff is how Sylveon initially can threaten out a foe to get a free Substitute up as they switch into a wall. And if they switch to a wall, Sylveon gets even more free turns to safely Calm Mind or Baton Pass out.
- Adding to the bulky pivot line, say that its low Speed lets it use Baton Pass to safely bring in teammates or take advantage of switches.
- If Sylveon has access to Wish, it should try to keep itself as healthy as possible, allowing it to use Substitute often and pivot into attacks.
- While Sylveon can act as a sweeper late-game, the primary focus should be on passing either Calm Mind boosts or Substitutes to teammates.

Team Options:
- Clefable is a particularly good teammate because having Calm Mind Sylveon as a wincon lets Clefable run a utility set more easily.
- Add that Mega Diancie makes a very good receiver of Sylveon's passes. It appreciates the Calm Mind boosts, Wish recovery, Substitutes, and even the safe switches from dry Baton Pass.
- Azumarill is also very appreciative of Sylveon. Most of the time, it has to stay passive and save its health so it can Belly Drum late-game, but with Sylveon's Wish and Substitute + Baton Pass support, it has a lot more freedom to be used throughout the match.

Checks and Counters:
- Heatran does need to be careful of Hidden Power Ground.
- Add that Mega Scizor can potentially use Sylveon as Swords Dance setup fodder as well, if it's not locked into Hidden Power Fire.

Looks good! QC 1/3
psnqb7S.gif
 
Choice Specs:
Set:
- Although Baton Pass is good for pivoting, Shadow Ball is far better and should always be used to check Psychic-type Pokemon. Baton Pass is really not worth mentioning as a slash here. Just putting it in moves as an alternative to Shadow Ball is fine. The set should be:

name: Choice Specs
move 1: Hyper Voice
move 2: Psyshock
move 3: Hidden Power Fire / Hidden Power Ground
move 4: Shadow Ball
item: Choice Specs
ability: Pixilate
nature: Modest
evs: 240 HP / 252 SpA / 16 Spe

Moves:
- In Hyper Voice, I'm assuming you meant its boosted by Pixiliate here instead of Hyper Voice.
- Mention Baton Pass as an alternative to Shadow Ball since it has been removed from the initial set.

Usage Tips:
- Add entry hazards to staying away from status part.
- Mention how due to its low Speed and Defense, it should only come in when one of its teammates faint.

Team Options:
- Mention how Togekiss can spread paralysis and run Heal Bell support for Sylveon.


Substitute+Calm Mind:
Set Details:
- Magnezone isn't the best example of a base 60 Speed uninvested Pokemon as Sylveon can't really touch it. Swampert would be better.

Team Options:
- Mention Togekiss providing Heal Bell support.

Checks and Counters:
- Provide examples for Strong physical attackers. Good ones would be Entei, Jirachi, and Doublade.
- Again, examples for Revenge-killers. Bisharp and Excadrill is good.

Nicely done! QC 2/3

q_V8_Z4_Pw.gif
 
Overview:
- Add how, because of its low Speed, Sylveon will often need to take a hit first before it can attack; Sylveon's good bulk makes this less of a problem, but physical attackers can take advantage of this

Choice Specs
Moves
- With Shadow Ball, mention Doublade instead of Bronzong. Bronzong isn't really relevant, and, while Doublade is hit hard by HP Fire too, locking into Shadow Ball instead of HP Fire can be useful against Steel Monotypes, since Sylveon invites Heatran in.

Set Details:
- Instead of Magnezone, mention Clefable. Magnezone almost always has Speed investment, and preventing Clefable from having the chance to Thunder Wave or set up Stealth Rock is useful

Usage Tips:
- Mention how Sylveon excels at breaking down most passive walls and likes to utilize safe switches in order to fire off Hyper Voice as much as possible. Unless they have a bulky Fairy resist, Sylveon is dealing heavy damage to something.

Team Options:
- Add how Togekiss can also carry Defog, which allows Sylveon to keep its HP up

Substitute + Calm Mind
Moves:
- nothing to change

Set Details:
- Add Clefable alongside TTar and Swampert, being able to avoid Thunder Wave is pretty nice

Usage Tips:
- You mention that it can get a Substitute against slower and passive Pokemon, but mention some examples too. Slowbro, Clefable, and Porygon2 are what come to mind

[Strategy Comments]
Other Options:
- This section is a bit lacking. Mention why the utility set with Wish, Protect, Hyper Voice, and Toxic / Heal Bell is inferior to its other sets. It does make use of Sylveon's good bulk, but Clefable runs that type of set much more effectively.

Checks and Counters:
- Merge the "Revenge Killers" and "Strong Physical Attackers" sections together. "Strong Physical Attackers" is more specific, and the Revenge Killers section has Bisharp and Excadrill which are mentioned in the Steel-type section already anyways.
- For the Status section, add how Sylveon is easily worn down by hazards, and the Choice Specs lacks recovery. When factoring status recoil in as well, it really adds up.


Nice work, QC 3/3
sOg5InU.gif
 
AMCHECK
remove add (comment) [eg] AC = Add Comma RC = Remove Comma
[OVERVIEW]

Sylveon has great Special Attack, impressive bulk, and a good movepool, all of which allow it to perform a number of roles effectively. It can be a great wallbreaker with Choice Specs thanks to its access to STAB Pixilate boosted Hyper Voice. Its access to Heal Bell, Wish, Calm Mind, and Baton Pass allow it to function as a cleric, bulky setup sweeper, or baton pass Baton Pass user. It has decent coverage options in Shadow Ball and Psyshock, the latter which can hit Poison-types that would try to switch in on a Fairy-type attack. Sylveon's low Defense limits its defensive capabilities. Its low Speed makes it easy to revenge kill and means that Sylveon will often need to take a hit first before it can attack. Its good Special Defense makes this less of a problem, but physical attackers can take advantage of it.

[SET]
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Hyper Voice
move 2: Psyshock
move 3: Hidden Power Fire / Hidden Power Ground
move 4: Shadow Ball
item: Choice Specs
ability: Pixilate
nature: Modest
evs: 240 HP / 252 SpA / 16 Spe

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

Hyper Voice is Sylveon's strongest attack as it's STAB it is a STAB move, boosted by Pixilate, and goes through hits the Pokemon regardless of Substitute (better wording). Psyshock hits Poison-types that try to switch in on a Fairy-type attack such as Mega Venusaur and Tentacruel. Hidden Power Fire hits Steel-types such as Ferrothorn and Scizor, while Hidden Power Ground can be used to hit Heatran, which otherwise walls Sylveon, however hitting Scizor is far more important than hitting Heatran. Shadow Ball hits Pokemon such as Jirachi and Doublade which are big threats to Fairy Sylveon and resist Hyper Voice. Alternatively, Baton Pass can be used over Shadow Ball to gain momentum because Choice Specs Sylveon often forces the foe to switch out, however the coverage that Shadow Ball provides is the preferred option.

Set Details
========

Maximum investment in HP and Special Attack with a Modest Nature allows Sylveon to hit as hard as possible and tank hits more effectively. 16 EVs in Speed are useful for outspeeding uninvested base 60 Speed Pokemon such as Clefable and Pokemon like Tyranitar so Sylveon can take them out with Hyper Voice without having to take a Stone Edge. Pixilate increases the power of Hyper Voice and turns it into a Fairy-type STAB move. Choice Specs increases Sylveon's power Special Attack and makes it an amazing wallbreaker.

Usage Tips
========

There aren't many Pokemon who appreciate taking a Choice Specs Hyper Voice from Sylveon so it can be used to wallbreak at any point of the game. It excels at breaking down most passive walls unless they're very bulky and resist Fairy. The boosts from Pixilate and STAB make Hyper Voice the superior attack most of the time, because its other coverage moves need to be super effective in order to outdamage it deal more damage than it. If running Baton Pass, Sylveon should use it when predicting a check or a counter to switch in. Even though it's going to get outsped most of the time, thanks to its great Special Defense it can eat up special attacks and hit back very hard. Sylveon's good Special Defense also lets it be a decent pivot to neutral or resisted attacks. Due to its low Speed and Defense it should watch out for physical attackers and only come in after a teammate faints unless it can deal really well with the Pokemon it's switching in on. Sylveon should be kept away from coming in on hazards and getting inflicted with status because it can be crippled and worn down easily.(Add Full Stop)

Team Options
========

Klefki is a great partner for Sylveon because it can set up screens, allowing Sylveon to take hits even better, spread paralysis which Sylveon heavily appreciates, and stack Spikes. Klefki also has an immunity to Poison and takes neutral damage from Steel-type moves, which all Fairy-type teams appreciate. Clefable also has the ability to spread paralysis and set up Stealth Rock, which helps Sylveon wallbreak easier. Clefable also functions as a status absorber thanks to its Magic Guard ability. Azumarill can deal with Pokemon that wall Sylveon such as Heatran and Empoleon thanks to its Water typing, high Attack, and access to Superpower. Gardevoir is a great Choice Scarf user that checks Poison-types that threaten Sylveon such as Gengar and Nidoking. It also checks Sand Rush Excadrill thanks to its Trace ability. Togekiss is immune to Ground which helps Fairy's lack of Ground resists, and it has access to Fire Blast and Aura Sphere which allows to check Steel-types. Togekiss can also spread paralysis with Thunder Wave, cure Sylveon's status with Heal Bell if it's a support variant, and get rid of hazards with Defog which helps Sylveon's longevity. Mega Diancie's Magic Bounce ability helps Sylveon dodge status moves and keeps hazards off the field. Mega Diancie also appreciates Choice Specs Sylveon's wallbreaking power as it's unable to get past walls such as Mew and Gliscor on its own.

[SET]
name: Substitute + Calm Mind
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Hyper Voice
move 3: Substitute
move 4: Baton Pass / Wish
item: Leftovers
ability: Pixilate
evs: 252 HP / 240 Def / 16 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Calm Mind boosts Sylveon's already decent Special Attack and Special Defense and makes it bulkier and more powerful. Hyper Voice is Sylveon's powerful STAB attack which is Pixilate boosted and goes through hits Pokemon regardless of Substitute. Substitute allows Sylveon to dodge status moves from slower Pokemon or gain momentum when forcing a switch. Baton Pass can be used for pivoting as well as passing Calm Mind boosts or a Substitute to a team mate teammate. Alternatively Wish can be used for recovery or to pass it to a teammate.

Set Details
========

16 EVs in Speed allows Sylveon to outspeed uninvested base 60 Pokemon such as Tyranitar, Clefable, and Swampert. The rest of the EVs are invested in HP and Defense to make Sylveon as bulky as possible so it can take both physical and special hits after it uses Calm Mind. Maximum investment in HP also helps it pass bigger Wishes and improves the bulk of its Substitute. Leftovers gives Sylveon some longevity and it's its only form of recovery if not running Wish. Pixilate boosts the power of Hyper Voice and makes it a Fairy-type STAB attack.

Usage Tips
========

Sylveon should be used as a bulky setup sweeper once its checks have been removed or weakened, or pass its boosts to a teammate. Thanks to the Defense investment and natural special bulk, it can be used as a bulky pivot. Its low Speed stat helps it get off a slow Baton Pass to safely bring in a teammate or take advantage of switches. Sylveon can get up a Substitute against slower and passive Pokemon such as Slowbro and Porygon2, or when it forces the foe to switch out which can also be done by bluffing a Choice Specs set. If running Wish, Sylveon should be kept as healthy as possible, giving it more chances to use Substitute or pivot into attacks. It should be kept away from status moves because it can cripple its sweeping potential or longevity. While Sylveon can be an excellent bulky late-game sweeper, its primary role is to pass Calm Mind boosts or a Substitute to its teammates.

Team Options
========

Klefki is a great partner for Sylveon thanks to its immunity to Poison-type attacks and neutrality to Steel. Klefki is also able to spread paralysis, stack Spikes, and get up screens which give Sylveon more opportunities to set up. Clefable works well with Sylveon because its Magic Guard ability allows it to absorb statuses. Clefable is able to spread paralysis like Klefki, but it can also set up Stealth Rock. Clefable is also free to run a utility set due to Sylveon already acting as a wincon with Calm Mind. Azumarill is a great partner for Sylveon because it can get rid of bulky Steel-types that wall Sylveon such as Heatran and Empoleon. Azumarill also has more freedom throughout the match because it doesn't need to stay passive and preserve its health to set up late-game thanks to Sylveon's ability to pass Wishes. Gardevoir is a great Choice Scarf user on Fairy and works well with Sylveon because it can get rid of Poison-type threats such as Nidoking. Togekiss's access to Fire Blast and Aura Sphere makes it a decent partner for Sylveon because it can dent Steel-types that annoy Sylveon, as well as hit Mega Venusaur with Air Slash. Togekiss is also immune to Ground-type attacks, which Fairy Sylveon appreciates since it doesn't have a solid resist. Another thing that Sylveon appreciates from Togekiss is its access to Heal Bell which helps Sylveon's issue with statuses. Mega Diancie is a solid partner for Sylveon because its Magic Bounce ability bounces back status and hazards which annoy Sylveon. It's also an excellent receiver of Sylveon's passes due to its high Speed, wallbreaking abilities, and lack of recovery.

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

A utility set with Wish, Protect, Hyper Voice, and Toxic / Heal Bell can be used, but it's heavily inferior to its other sets because Clefable is much more effective at running that type of set.

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

**Chansey**: Chansey's massive special bulk allows it to switch in on any variant of Sylveon and check it effectively.

**Steel-types**: Bulky Steel-types such as Heatran and Empoleon can switch into all of Sylveon's moves and force it out, while offensive Steel-types such as Excadrill and Bisharp outspeed it and OHKO it with Iron Head, but don't want to switch into a Choice Specs boosted attack. Heatran does need to be careful of Hidden Power Ground, however.

**Scizor**: Any variant of Scizor can check Sylveon with Bullet Punch but it should be careful of switching in because Choice Specs Hyper Voice does a lot of damage, and Sylveon can carry possess Hidden Power Fire. If Sylveon isn't locked into Hidden Power Fire, Mega Scizor can use it as setup fodder.

**Poison-types**: Poison-types such as Mega Venusaur and Tentacruel can eat up Hyper Voice and check Sylveon. They have to watch out for Psyshock, however.

**Strong physical attackers**: Sylveon's Defense is not that impressive so it should be used carefully around physical attackers and revenge killers such as Entei and Diggersby.

**Status**: Sylveon doesn't appreciate statuses because it can cripple its longevity and its wallbreaking or sweeping potential.

**Residual damage**: The Choice Specs set lacks recovery so residual damage from hazards and status strongly cripples it's Sylveon's longevity.

This doesn't count as GP: 1/2 unless it is stamped by an official GP member
 
GP 1/2

add/change; remove; (comment); (AC) = add comma; (RC) = remove comma
[OVERVIEW]

Sylveon has great Special Attack, impressive bulk, and a good movepool, all of which allow it to perform a number of roles effectively. It can be a great wallbreaker with Choice Specs thanks to its access to STAB Pixilate boosted Hyper Voice. Its access to Heal Bell, Wish, Calm Mind, and Baton Pass allow it to function as a cleric, bulky setup sweeper, or Baton Pass user. It has decent coverage options in Shadow Ball and Psyshock, the latter of which can hit Poison-types that would try to switch in on a Fairy-type attack. However, Sylveon's low Defense limits its defensive capabilities. Its low Speed makes it easy to revenge kill and means that Sylveon it will often need to take a hit first before it can attack. Its good Special Defense makes this less of a problem, but physical attackers can still take advantage of it.

[SET]
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Hyper Voice
move 2: Psyshock
move 3: Hidden Power Fire / Hidden Power Ground
move 4: Shadow Ball
item: Choice Specs
ability: Pixilate
nature: Modest
evs: 240 HP / 252 SpA / 16 Spe

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

Hyper Voice is Sylveon's strongest attack, (AC) as it is a STAB move, is boosted by Pixilate, and hits the Pokemon regardless of Substitute. Psyshock hits Poison-types that try to switch in on a Fairy-type attack such as Mega Venusaur and Tentacruel. Hidden Power Fire hits Steel-types such as Ferrothorn and Scizor, while Hidden Power Ground can be used to hit Heatran, which otherwise walls Sylveon, (RC) . (period) However, (AC) hitting Scizor is far more important than hitting Heatran. Shadow Ball hits Pokemon such as Jirachi and Doublade, (AC) which are big threats to Sylveon and resist Hyper Voice. Alternatively, Baton Pass can be used over Shadow Ball to gain momentum because Choice Specs Sylveon often forces the foe to switch out, (RC) . (period) However, (AC) the coverage that Shadow Ball provides is the preferred option.

Set Details
========

Maximum investment in HP and Special Attack with a Modest nature allows Sylveon to hit as hard as possible and tank hits more effectively. 16 EVs in Speed are useful for outspeeding uninvested base 60 Speed Pokemon such as Clefable. (period) and This is especially helpful against Pokemon like Tyranitar, (AC) which so Sylveon can take them out with Hyper Voice without having to take a Stone Edge first. Pixilate increases the power of Hyper Voice and turns it into a Fairy-type STAB move. Choice Specs increases Sylveon's Special Attack, (AC) and makes making it an amazing wallbreaker.

Usage Tips
========

There aren't many Pokemon who that appreciate taking a Choice Specs-boosted Hyper Voice from Sylveon, (AC) so it can be used to wallbreak at any point of the game. It excels at breaking down most passive walls unless they're very bulky and resist Fairy. The boosts from Pixilate and STAB make Hyper Voice the superior attack most of the time, (RC) because its Sylveon's other coverage moves need to be super effective in order to deal more damage than it. If running Baton Pass, Sylveon should use it when predicting a check or a counter to switch in. Even though it's going to get outsped most of the time, thanks to its great Special Defense, (AC) it can eat up special attacks and hit back very hard. Sylveon's good Special Defense also lets it be a decent pivot to neutral or resisted attacks. Due to its low Speed and Defense, (AC) it should watch out for physical attackers and only come in after a teammate faints unless it can deal really well with the Pokemon it's switching in on. Sylveon should be kept away from avoid coming in on entry hazards and getting inflicted with status because it can be crippled and worn down easily.

Team Options
========

Klefki is a great partner for Sylveon because it can set up dual screens, allowing Sylveon to take hits even better, spread paralysis, (AC) which Sylveon heavily greatly appreciates, and stack Spikes. Klefki also has an immunity to Poison and takes neutral damage from Steel-type moves, which all Fairy-type teams appreciate. Clefable also has the ability to spread paralysis and set up Stealth Rock, which helps Sylveon wallbreak easier more easily. Clefable also functions as a status absorber thanks to its Magic Guard ability. Azumarill can deal with Pokemon that wall Sylveon such as Heatran and Empoleon thanks to its Water typing, high Attack, and access to Superpower. Gardevoir is a great Choice Scarf user that checks Poison-types that threaten Sylveon such as Gengar and Nidoking. It also checks Sand Rush Excadrill thanks to its Trace ability. Togekiss is immune to Ground, (AC) which helps Fairy's lack of Ground resists, and it has access to Fire Blast and Aura Sphere, (AC) which allows it to check Steel-types. Togekiss can also spread paralysis with Thunder Wave, cure Sylveon's status with Heal Bell if it's a support variant, and get rid of entry hazards with Defog, (AC) which helps Sylveon's longevity. Mega Diancie's Magic Bounce ability helps Sylveon dodge status moves and keeps hazards off the field. Mega Diancie also appreciates Choice Specs Sylveon's wallbreaking power, (AC) as it's unable to get past walls such as Mew and Gliscor on its own.

[SET]
name: Substitute + Calm Mind
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Hyper Voice
move 3: Substitute
move 4: Baton Pass / Wish
item: Leftovers
ability: Pixilate
evs: 252 HP / 240 Def / 16 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Calm Mind boosts Sylveon's already decent Special Attack and Special Defense, (AC) and makes making it bulkier and more powerful. Hyper Voice is Sylveon's powerful STAB attack, (AC) which is Pixilate boosted and hits Pokemon regardless of Substitute. Substitute allows Sylveon to dodge status moves from slower Pokemon or gain momentum when forcing a switch. Baton Pass can be used for pivoting as well as passing Calm Mind boosts or a Substitute to a teammate. Alternatively, (AC) Wish can be used for recovery or to pass it to a teammate.

Set Details
========

16 EVs in Speed allows Sylveon to outspeed uninvested base 60 Pokemon such as Tyranitar, Clefable, and Swampert. The rest of the EVs are invested in HP and Defense to make Sylveon as bulky as possible so it can take both physical and special hits after it uses Calm Mind. Maximum investment in HP also helps it pass bigger Wishes and improves the bulk of its Substitute. Leftovers gives Sylveon some longevity and it's its only form of recovery if not running Wish. Pixilate boosts the power of Hyper Voice and makes it a Fairy-type STAB attack.

Usage Tips
========

Sylveon should be used as a bulky setup sweeper once its checks have been removed or weakened, (RC) or to pass its boosts to a teammate. Thanks to the Defense investment and its natural special bulk, it can be used as a bulky pivot. Its low Speed stat helps it get off a slow Baton Pass to safely bring in a teammate or take advantage of switches. Sylveon can get up a Substitute against slower and passive Pokemon such as Slowbro and Porygon2, (RC) or when it forces the foe to switch out, (AC) which can also be done by bluffing a Choice Specs set. If running Wish, Sylveon should be kept as healthy as possible, giving it more chances to use Substitute or pivot into attacks. It should be kept away from status moves because it they can cripple its sweeping potential or longevity. While Sylveon can be an excellent bulky late-game sweeper, its primary role is to pass Calm Mind boosts or a Substitute to its teammates.

Team Options
========

Klefki is a great partner for Sylveon thanks to its immunity to Poison-type attacks and neutrality to Steel. Klefki is also able to spread paralysis, stack Spikes, and get up dual screens, (AC) which give Sylveon more opportunities to set up. Clefable works well with Sylveon because its Magic Guard ability allows it to absorb statuses. Clefable is able to spread paralysis like Klefki, but it can also set up Stealth Rock. Furthermore, Clefable is also free to run a utility set due to Sylveon already acting as a wincon with Calm Mind. Azumarill is a great partner for Sylveon because it can get rid of bulky Steel-types that wall Sylveon such as Heatran and Empoleon. Azumarill also has more freedom throughout the match because it doesn't need to stay passive and preserve its health to set up late-game thanks to Sylveon's ability to pass Wishes. Gardevoir is a great Choice Scarf user on Fairy and works well with Sylveon because it can get rid of Poison-type threats such as Nidoking. Togekiss's access to Fire Blast and Aura Sphere makes it a decent partner for Sylveon because it can dent Steel-types that annoy Sylveon, as well as hit Mega Venusaur with Air Slash. Togekiss is also immune to Ground-type attacks, which Sylveon (Fairy-type teams??) appreciates, (AC) since it doesn't have a solid resist. Another thing that Sylveon appreciates from Togekiss is its access to Heal Bell, (AC) which helps Sylveon's issue with statuses. Mega Diancie is a solid partner for Sylveon because its Magic Bounce ability bounces back status and entry hazards, (AC) which annoy Sylveon. It's also an excellent receiver of Sylveon's Wish passes due to its high Speed, wallbreaking abilities, and lack of recovery.

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

A utility set with Wish, Protect, Hyper Voice, and Toxic / or Heal Bell can be used, but it's heavily inferior to its Sylveon's other sets because Clefable is much more effective at running that type of set.

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

**Chansey**: Chansey's massive special bulk allows it to switch in on any variant of Sylveon and check it effectively.

**Steel-types**: Bulky Steel-types such as Heatran and Empoleon can switch into all of Sylveon's moves and force it out, while offensive Steel-types such as Excadrill and Bisharp outspeed it and OHKO it with Iron Head, (RC) but don't want to switch into a Choice Specs-boosted (hyphen) attack. Heatran does need to be careful of Hidden Power Ground, however.

**Scizor**: Any variant of Scizor can check Sylveon with Bullet Punch, (AC) but it should be careful of switching in because Choice Specs-boosted Hyper Voice does a lot of damage, and Sylveon can possess Hidden Power Fire. If Sylveon isn't locked into Hidden Power Fire, Mega Scizor can use it as setup fodder.

**Poison-types**: Poison-types such as Mega Venusaur and Tentacruel can eat up Hyper Voice and check Sylveon. They have to watch out for Psyshock, however.

**Strong Physical Attackers**: Sylveon's Defense is not that impressive, (AC) so it should be used carefully around physical attackers and revenge killers such as Entei and Diggersby.

**Status**: Sylveon doesn't appreciate statuses because it they can cripple its longevity and its wallbreaking or sweeping potential.

**Residual Damage**: The Choice Specs set lacks recovery so residual damage from entry hazards and status strongly cripples Sylveon's longevity.

nicely done
 
Balor

REMOVE CHANGE COMMENTS

[OVERVIEW]

Sylveon has great Special Attack, impressive bulk, and a good movepool, all of which allow it to perform a number of roles effectively. It can be a great wallbreaker with Choice Specs thanks to its access to STAB Pixilate Hyper Voice. Its access to Heal Bell, Wish, Calm Mind, and Baton Pass allow it to function as a cleric, bulky setup sweeper, or Baton Pass user. It has decent coverage options in Shadow Ball and Psyshock, the latter of which can hit Poison-types that would try to switch in on a Fairy-type attack. However, Sylveon's low Defense limits its defensive capabilities. Its low Speed makes it easy to revenge kill and means that it will often need to take a hit first before it can attack. Its good Special Defense makes this less of a problem, but physical attackers can still take advantage of it.

[SET]
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Hyper Voice
move 2: Psyshock
move 3: Hidden Power Fire / Hidden Power Ground
move 4: Shadow Ball
item: Choice Specs
ability: Pixilate
nature: Modest
evs: 240 HP / 252 SpA / 16 Spe

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

Hyper Voice is Sylveon's strongest attack, as it is a STAB move, is boosted by Pixilate, and hits the Pokemon regardless of Substitute. Psyshock hits Poison-types that try to switch in on a Fairy-type attack such as Mega Venusaur and Tentacruel. Hidden Power Fire hits Steel-types such as Ferrothorn and Scizor, while Hidden Power Ground can be used to hit Heatran, which otherwise walls Sylveon. However, hitting Scizor is far more important than hitting Heatran. why? Shadow Ball hits Pokemon such as Jirachi and Doublade, which are big threats to Sylveon. Alternatively, Baton Pass can be used over Shadow Ball to gain momentum because Choice Specs Sylveon often forces the foe to switch out. However, the coverage that Shadow Ball provides is preferred.

Set Details
========

Maximum investment in HP and Special Attack with a Modest nature allows Sylveon to hit as hard as possible and tank hits more effectively. 16 EVs in Speed are useful for outspeeding uninvested base 60 Speed Pokemon such as Clefable. This is especially helpful against Pokemon like Tyranitar, which Sylveon can take out with Hyper Voice without having to take a Stone Edge first. Pixilate increases the power of Hyper Voice and turns it into a Fairy-type STAB move. Choice Specs increases Sylveon's Special Attack, making it an amazing wallbreaker.

Usage Tips
========

There aren't many Pokemon that appreciate taking a Choice Specs-boosted Hyper Voice from Sylveon, so it can be used to wallbreak at any point of the game. It excels at breaking down most passive walls unless they're very bulky and resist Fairy. The boosts from Pixilate and STAB make Hyper Voice the superior attack most of the time because Sylveon's other coverage moves need to be super effective in order to deal more damage than it. If running Baton Pass, Sylveon should use it when predicting a check or counter to switch in. Even though it's going to get outsped most of the time, thanks to its great Special Defense, it Sylveon can eat up special attacks and hit back very hard. Sylveon's good Special Defense also lets it be a decent pivot to neutral or resisted attacks. Due to its low Speed and Defense, it should watch out for physical attackers and only come in after a teammate faints unless it can deal really well with the Pokemon it's switching in on. Sylveon should avoid coming in on entry hazards and getting inflicted with status because it can be crippled and worn down easily.

Team Options
========

Klefki is a great partner for Sylveon because it can set up dual screens, allowing Sylveon to take hits even better, spread paralysis, which Sylveon greatly appreciates, and stack Spikes. Klefki also has an immunity to poison and takes neutral damage from Steel-type moves, which all Fairy-type teams appreciate. Clefable also has the ability to spread paralysis and set up Stealth Rock, which helps Sylveon wallbreak more easily. Clefable also functions as a status absorber thanks to its Magic Guard ability. Azumarill can deal with Pokemon that wall Sylveon such as Heatran and Empoleon thanks to its Water typing, high Attack, and access to Superpower. Gardevoir is a great Choice Scarf user that checks Poison-types that threaten Sylveon such as Gengar and Nidoking. It also checks Sand Rush Excadrill thanks to its Trace ability. Togekiss is immune to Ground, which helps Fairy's lack of Pokemon that resist Ground resists, and it has access to Fire Blast and Aura Sphere, which allows it to check Steel-types. Togekiss can also spread paralysis with Thunder Wave, cure Sylveon's status with Heal Bell if it's a support variant, and get rid of entry hazards with Defog, which helps Sylveon's longevity. Mega Diancie's Magic Bounce ability helps Sylveon dodge status moves and keeps hazards off the field. Mega Diancie also appreciates Choice Specs Sylveon's wallbreaking power, as it's unable to get past walls such as Mew and Gliscor on its own.

[SET]
name: Substitute + Calm Mind
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Hyper Voice
move 3: Substitute
move 4: Baton Pass / Wish
item: Leftovers
ability: Pixilate
evs: 252 HP / 240 Def / 16 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Calm Mind boosts Sylveon's already decent Special Attack and Special Defense, making it bulkier and more powerful. Hyper Voice is Sylveon's powerful STAB attack, which is Pixilate boosted and hits Pokemon regardless of Substitute. Substitute allows Sylveon to dodge status moves from slower Pokemon or gain momentum when forcing a switch. Baton Pass can be used for pivoting as well as passing Calm Mind boosts or a Substitute to a teammate. Alternatively, Wish can be used for recovery or to pass it to a teammate.

Set Details
========

16 EVs in Speed allows Sylveon to outspeed uninvested base 60 Pokemon such as Tyranitar, Clefable, and Swampert. The rest of the EVs are invested in HP and Defense to make Sylveon as bulky as possible so it can take both physical and special hits after it uses Calm Mind. Maximum investment in HP also helps it pass bigger Wishes and improves the bulk of its Substitute. Leftovers gives Sylveon some longevity and is its only form of recovery if not running Wish. Pixilate boosts the power of Hyper Voice and makes it a Fairy-type STAB attack.

Usage Tips
========

Sylveon should be used as a bulky setup sweeper once its checks have been removed or weakened or to pass its boosts to a teammate. Thanks to the Defense investment and its natural special bulk, it can be used as a bulky pivot. Its low Speed stat helps it get off a slow Baton Pass to safely bring in a teammate or take advantage of switches. Sylveon can get up a Substitute against slower and passive Pokemon such as Slowbro and Porygon2 or when it forces the foe to switch out, which can also be done by bluffing a Choice Specs set. If running Wish, Sylveon should be kept as healthy as possible, giving it more chances to use Substitute or pivot into attacks. It should be kept away from status moves because they can cripple its sweeping potential or longevity. While Sylveon can be an excellent bulky late-game sweeper, its primary role is to pass Calm Mind boosts or a Substitute to its teammates.

Team Options
========

Klefki is a great partner for Sylveon thanks to its immunity to Poison-type attacks and neutrality to Steel. Klefki is also able to spread paralysis, stack Spikes, and get up dual screens, which give Sylveon more opportunities to set up. Clefable works well with Sylveon because its Magic Guard ability allows it to absorb statuses. Clefable is able to spread paralysis like Klefki, but it can also set up Stealth Rock. Furthermore, Clefable is free to run a utility set due to Sylveon already acting as a wincon with Calm Mind. Azumarill is a great partner for Sylveon because it can get rid of bulky Steel-types that wall Sylveon such as Heatran and Empoleon. Azumarill also has more freedom throughout the match because it doesn't need to stay passive and preserve its health to set up late-game thanks to Sylveon's ability to pass Wishes. Gardevoir is a great Choice Scarf user on Fairy and works well with Sylveon because it can get rid of Poison-type threats such as Nidoking. Togekiss's access to Fire Blast and Aura Sphere makes it a decent partner for Sylveon because it can dent Steel-types that annoy Sylveon, as well as hit Mega Venusaur with Air Slash. Togekiss is also immune to Ground-type attacks, which Fairy-type teams appreciate, since they don't have another solid answer resist. Another thing that Sylveon appreciates from Togekiss is its access to Heal Bell, which helps Sylveon's issue with statuses. Mega Diancie is a solid partner for Sylveon because its Magic Bounce ability bounces back status and entry hazards, which annoy Sylveon. It's also an excellent receiver of Sylveon's Wish passes due to its high Speed, wallbreaking abilities, and lack of recovery.

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

A utility set with Wish, Protect, Hyper Voice, and Toxic or Heal Bell can be used, but it's heavily inferior to Sylveon's other sets because Clefable is much more effective at running that type of set.

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

**Chansey**: Chansey's massive special bulk allows it to switch in on any variant of Sylveon and check it effectively.

**Steel-types**: Bulky Steel-types such as Heatran and Empoleon can switch into all of Sylveon's moves and force it out, while offensive Steel-types such as Excadrill and Bisharp outspeed and OHKO it with Iron Head but don't want to switch into a Choice Specs-boosted attack. Heatran does need to be careful of Hidden Power Ground, however.

**Scizor**: Any variant of Scizor can check Sylveon with Bullet Punch, but it should be careful of switching in because Choice Specs-boosted Hyper Voice does a lot of damage, and Sylveon can possess Hidden Power Fire. If Sylveon isn't locked into Hidden Power Fire, Mega Scizor can use it as setup fodder.

**Poison-types**: Poison-types such as Mega Venusaur and Tentacruel can eat up Hyper Voice and check Sylveon. They have to watch out for Psyshock, however.

**Strong Physical Attackers**: Sylveon's Defense is not that impressive, so it should be used carefully around physical attackers and revenge killers such as Entei and Diggersby.

**Status**: Sylveon doesn't appreciate statuses conditions because they can cripple its longevity and its wallbreaking or sweeping potential.

**Residual Damage**: The Choice Specs set lacks recovery, (AC) so residual damage from entry hazards and status strongly cripples Sylveon's longevity.
gato

2/2
 
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