PU Noctowl

[tondas]

[OVERVIEW]

Noctowl sports Tinted Lens, Work Up, and a powerful STAB move in Hurricane, making it capable of breaking past Pokemon that check other Flying-types such as Regirock and Lanturn. Access to Agility lets Noctowl double as a late-game sweeper by being able to outspeed prominent threats such as Alolan Raichu and Choice Scarf Primeape after a boost. The combination of these traits allows Noctowl to match up well versus offensive and defensive teams alike. Noctowl's respectable special bulk also grants it valuable setup opportunities versus weaker special attackers such as Weezing and defensive Mesprit. However, Noctowl's paltry base 50 Defense can prove troublesome, as common powerful attackers such as Togedemaru and Alolan Sandslash can outspeed Noctowl and OHKO it. By extension, +2 Modest Noctowl fails to outspeed particularly fast and threatening Choice Scarf users such as Togedemaru and Manectric. Even though Roost can somewhat remedy residual damage taken, a weakness to Stealth Rock means that Noctowl will often be forced to use Roost and miss out on chances to set up or fire off an attack. Furthermore, Noctowl is reliant on setting up and having a Z-Move to apply offensive pressure, as its middling Special Attack and mediocre Speed otherwise keep it from being a sizeable threat. Finally, Noctowl faces stiff competition from other Flying- and Normal-type wallbreakers and sweepers such as Oricorio-G and Drampa; the former can similarly break through balance and stall teams with its powerful STAB combination alongside access to a superior boosting move in Calm Mind, while the latter possesses far more raw power.

[SET]
name: Double Dance
move 1: Agility
move 2: Work Up
move 3: Hurricane
move 4: Roost
item: Flyinium Z
ability: Tinted Lens
nature: Modest
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Agility patches up Noctowl's below average Speed and lets it outpace an abundance of fast threats, including Froslass, Alolan Dugtrio, and every Choice Scarf user up to base 95 Speed, which include Primeape and Jynx. Work Up is Noctowl's only method of boosting its Special Attack, giving it the means to break through Pokemon like Eelektross and Regirock with Flyinium Z. Hurricane is Noctowl's STAB move of choice despite its low accuracy because of its high Base Power and ability to deal neutral damage to most targets courtesy of Tinted Lens while also OHKOing Alolan Exeggutor after Stealth Rock and Gourgeist-XL always. Roost keeps Noctowl healthy and provides additional chances to sweep or wallbreak. Roost also compensates for Noctowl's weakness to Stealth Rock and can be used to sponge Volt Switch from slow users such as Lanturn.

Set Details
========

Maximum EVs in Special Attack and Speed allow Noctowl to hit as hard and quickly as possible. A Modest nature is preferred so that Noctowl can function primarily as a wallbreaker and OHKO Assault Vest Hitmonchan and Skuntank unboosted; it's still faster than threats such as Choice Scarf Primeape after Agility. A Timid nature lets Noctowl naturally outspeed neutral-natured base 80 Speed Pokemon like Mesprit and Shiftry as well as Choice Scarf Togedemaru after Agility, but this forfeits a considerable amount of Noctowl's attacking power. Tinted Lens is a crucial ability, as it lets Hurricane hit the likes of Aurorus and Regirock neutrally. Flyinium Z gives Noctowl a one-time nuke that, alongside setup, is capable of demolishing specially bulky Pokemon like Lanturn and Eelektross. Its perfect accuracy is also helpful in dire situations where Noctowl needs to land an attack. Sky Plate is a viable alternative if another teammate is using a Z-Crystal, giving Noctowl more consistent damage output. However, Noctowl sorely misses out on the power brought by using Flyinium Z, which includes OHKOing Pokemon like Eviolite Scyther and Oricorio-E after Stealth Rock without a boost.

Usage Tips
========

Noctowl functions best utilizing Work Up, Tinted Lens, and Hurricane to break through balance and bulky offense teams that rely on Pokemon like Regirock, Oricorio-E, and Lanturn to take Flying-type attacks. Assess whether Agility or Work Up is more important to set up first. Against offensive teams, Agility gives Noctowl an edge over fast Pokemon that would otherwise threaten it like Alolan Sandslash and Jynx. Work Up functions well versus bulkier teams, allowing Noctowl to punch through walls after a sufficient number of uses. For instance, +1 Supersonic Skystrike can OHKO Aurorus and Regirock after Stealth Rock damage, whereas an unboosted Supersonic Skystrike or a boosted Hurricane can OHKO Alolan Sandslash and Kabutops. Supersonic Skystrike can also be used if Noctowl can't afford to miss Hurricane, such as against a Pokemon like Aggron, which threatens to decimate Noctowl in return. It's also useful for securing an OHKO on Pokemon like Carracosta and Omastar, where Noctowl can't afford to set up at all. In spite of great special bulk, Noctowl should not be used as a sponge to special attacks; instead, bring it in safely through pivoting moves like Volt Switch and Parting Shot. However, Noctowl can switch into weaker users of Knock Off such as Tangela and Sableye to preserve its teammates' items and threaten both examples with Supersonic Skystrike. A weakness to Stealth Rock and susceptibility to residual damage is often a liability for Noctowl, so keeping it healthy increases its chances of being able to successfully set up versus weaker special attackers such as Bellossom and defensive Mesprit. Use Roost to heal when against Pokemon that can't do much harm to Noctowl, such as Weezing and Audino, but be wary of the occasional Toxic. Status from users like Toxic Poliwrath and Thunder Wave Mesprit is something Noctowl should try to avoid in general. Use advantageous matchups as setup time, as this is the key to Noctowl's success. Choice item users such as Haunter and Alolan Exeggutor can be taken advantage of, depending on what they're locked into. Some Pokemon that can't do much to Noctowl include Weezing, defensive Mesprit lacking Thunder Wave, and Gourgeist-XL. Finally, Noctowl can engage in mind games with other Pokemon like Hitmonchan and Abomasnow, which are naturally threatened out by Supersonic Skystrike.

Team Options
========

Wallbreakers such as Alolan Exeggutor and Aggron can weaken defensive Pokemon like Audino and Clefairy, paving the way for Noctowl to sweep using Agility. Similarly, late-game cleaners such as Jynx, Carracosta, and Primeape appreciate Noctowl's ability to weaken bulky Pokemon such as Weezing, Poliwrath, and Gurdurr. Blanket checks to physical attackers such as Regirock, defensive Carracosta, and Gurdurr take powerful physical hits for Noctowl, while it can check Grass-types like Bellossom and Lurantis in return. Weezing in particular can also utilize Toxic Spikes to wear down Noctowl's checks such as Lanturn and Regirock. Noctowl thrives on getting free switches to start setting up, so slow pivots like Probopass and Eelektross can help. Conversely, Silvally-Dragon operates well as a fast pivot thanks to Parting Shot lowering the foe's offensive stats, giving Noctowl an easier shot at setting up. Silvally-Dragon's ability to unleash a powerful Draco Meteor and target Steel-types like Togedemaru with Flamethrower can help secure a potential sweep for Noctowl. Entry hazard removers such as Hitmonchan and Skuntank are essential, as Noctowl is weak to Stealth Rock. Hitmonchan also works as an offensive check to Pokemon like Togedemaru and Aggron while appreciating Noctowl's ability to break threats such as Weezing, whereas specially offensive Skuntank can soften special walls with Acid Spray. Skuntank also enjoys Noctowl being able to switch into Ground-type attacks. Noctowl appreciates entry hazards from Pokemon like Mesprit and Qwilfish weakening switch-ins. A notable feat that Noctowl can pull off with Stealth Rock is OHKOing Regirock with +1 Supersonic Skystrike. Qwilfish can weaken physical attackers with Intimidate and soften targets with Explosion, while Mesprit offers Healing Wish to provide emergency support for Noctowl. Clefairy also appreciates Noctowl being able to power through Steel-types like Aggron and Mawile with Supersonic Skystrike and absorb Knock Off from weaker users like Audino.

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

A Choice Specs set gives Noctowl more immediate power without the need to set up, turning it into a dedicated wallbreaker; this set is most notably capable of 2HKOing Regirock. However, this set faces heavy competition from other Choice Specs users such as Drampa, which offers better wallbreaking capabilities overall due to its sheer power. Air Slash is a more accurate STAB move, but the severe drop in power from Hurricane limits its wallbreaking power. For instance, Noctowl would require the use of Work Up three times to even guarantee that a Supersonic Skystrike can OHKO Regirock. Hidden Power Fighting can be used to hit Pokemon like Aggron and Probopass especially hard, even OHKOing the former without any boosts, but otherwise it serves little purpose and is generally hard to fit onto moveslots. Substitute grants Noctowl a shield from harmful status moves such as Thunder Wave and Toxic, but the usefulness of Noctowl's other moves makes it hard to fit. Using Psycho Shift with Psychium Z lets Noctowl perform well as a stallbreaker, granting it +2 in Special Attack and swapping whatever harmful status condition is inflicted onto it with the target. However, having to forfeit Work Up and a powerful nuke in Flyinium Z makes this set a one-trick pony, as Noctowl won't be able to set up a second time. On the other hand, sacrificing Agility worsens Noctowl's matchup considerably against offensive teams. Furthermore, as a dedicated stallbreaker, Noctowl faces competition from Pokemon such as Oricorio-G. Finally, while a defensive Defog set sounds appealing with access to Roost and good special bulk, Noctowl offers little as a Defogger over Pokemon like Swanna, Articuno, and Altaria, and its extremely passive nature makes it easy setup fodder.

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

**Specially Defensive Walls**: Type: Null and Munchlax take pathetic amounts of damage from even a boosted Noctowl and can use setup of their own to break through Noctowl. Clefairy can use Calm Mind to beat Noctowl in a one-on-one situation but does not appreciate taking boosted damage beforehand.

**Electric-types**: Togedemaru, Alolan Raichu, and Manectric hit Noctowl hard and can force it out to secure an opportunity to pivot with Volt Switch or U-turn. Togedemaru is the most notable example, as Choice Scarf variants can switch into Hurricane, outspeed Agility-boosted Noctowl, and OHKO it with Zing Zap. Certain Electric-types like Eelektross and Lanturn possess high special bulk and can pivot into unboosted attacks, and Lanturn can fish for paralysis with Discharge.

**Rock-types**: Rock-types such as Regirock and Aggron are sturdy enough to take on a Noctowl without a Z-Move or boosts and threaten it with their respective Rock-type moves. Faster Rock-types like Kabutops can outspeed Noctowl without any Agility boosts, and Lycanroc can always hit first with Accelerock, revenge killing Noctowl if it's sufficiently weakened. The likes of Regirock and Golem can take advantage of Noctowl switching out by setting up Stealth Rock.

**Ice-types**: Pokemon like Jynx and Rotom-F can outspeed an unboosted Noctowl and hit it hard with their STAB moves, while Abomasnow threatens to hit Noctowl first with Ice Shard. Choice Specs Aurorus can even OHKO Noctowl despite its high Special Defense, though it must be careful about taking a boosted Supersonic Skystrike.

**Physical Attackers**: Pokemon like Kangaskhan, Stoutland, and Choice Band Skuntank have little issue outspeeding an unboosted Noctowl and exploiting its low Defense, with the former two also having a solid chance of surviving an unboosted Supersonic Skystrike if at full health. Kangaskan also possesses two solid priority moves, threatening to hit Noctowl first.

**Faster Pokemon**: Noctowl depends on Agility to outspeed powerful threats like Primeape and Alolan Sandslash and can be revenge killed very easily otherwise. Particularly fast Choice Scarf users such as Togedemaru and Manectric outpace Noctowl even after an Agility boost, the former always OHKOing with Zing Zap.

**Stealth Rock**: While Noctowl can heal damage dealt by Stealth Rock, taking a turn to do so can invite Pokemon like Stoutland and Alolan Sandslash to come in and threaten it out. In situations where Noctowl can't heal, Stealth Rock damage will let faster attackers like Primeape and Jynx KO it.

**Status**: Users of Toxic like Oricorio-E and Alolan Persian can put Noctowl on a timer, severely reducing its time on the field. Being afflicted with paralysis from Pokemon like Mesprit and Volbeat nullifies any use Agility could have had.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[tondas, 442732]]
- Quality checked by: [[jklioe, 424692], [TONE, 213583], [yogi, 252106]]
- Grammar checked by: [[CryoGyro, 331519], [The Dutch Plumberjack, 232216]]

 

[K. Roolest Shark]

**Physical Attackers**: Noctowl has a pitful 50 defense stats and doesn't have good means on adding on to it, physically offensive pokemon such as Regirock or Pinsir can OHKO it with ease.

asa edit: it's still wip, please refrain from making comments. also, regirock is not a particularly good example, since it isn't really an offensive pokemon and the only reason you really KO noctowl is bc of the type advantage, which is touched on in the section named 'rock-types'.

 

[tondas]

a

 

[Aaronboyer]

This is an AM QC Check, so only Implement What You Want

AM QC Check

[OVERVIEW]

• Noctowl sports an excellent ability in Tinted Lens, making it capable of breaking past Pokemon that would normally resist its moves such as Regirock and Lanturn, in tandem with Work Up and a high Base Power STAB move in Hurricane.
• Access to Agility lets Noctowl double as a late-game sweeper, being able to outspeed prominent threats such as Choice Scarf Primeape and Alolan Raichu after a boost. (The way this is worded, it sounds like +2 Noctowl is able to outspeed Choice Scarf Alolan Raichu, which it cannot. Reword this please)
• Respectable 100/96 special bulk grants Noctowl valuable setup opportunities versus special attackers such as Lilligant and Weezing.(Weezing, while yes it does run Sludge Bomb, primarily functions as a physical wall. Perhaps you could find a better example)
• On the contrary, Noctowl's paltry base 50 physical defense can prove troublesome, as common powerful attackers such as Togedemaru and Kingler can outspeed Noctowl if it does not have sufficient speed boosts and OHKO it. A weakness to Stealth Rock also hampers Noctowl's ability to take hits and successfully set up.
• Noctowl lacks immediate offensive power, as even with Tinted Lens, its middling Special Attack and mediocre Speed(Speed has nothing to do with power. My suggestion would be to remove "mediocre Speed" and change the second sentence of this bullet point to a dependent clause (you can do this by deleting "This is" and adding a comma where the period is) and then add another sentence talking about its lackluster Speed.) mean that it needs to find opportunities to set up in order to become a sizeable threat. This is further hindered by Work Up being a rather questionable form of boosting Special Attack.(Why is it questionable? I mean it gives it a Sp Atk boost.)
• Noctowl faces stiff competition from other Flying- and Normal-type wallbreakers and sweepers such as Oricorio-G and Pyroar; the former can similarly break through Pokemon with its powerful dual STAB alongside access to a superior boosting move in Calm Mind.(Kinda leaving Pyroar out here to dry. Mention that it has a fantastic base 106 Speed stat)

name: Double Dance
move 1: Agility
move 2: Work Up
move 3: Hurricane
move 4: Roost
item: Flyinium Z
ability: Tinted Lens
nature: Modest
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

• Agility patches up Noctowl's below average speed(Speed) and lets it outpace an abundance of fast threats, including Jynx and Alolan Dugtrio.
• Work Up is Noctowl's only method of boosting its Special Attack, giving it the functionality of a wallbreaker.(What can it now wallbreak with this boost? ex Regirock and Eelektross)
• Hurricane is Noctowl's main STAB move, with high Base Power and ability to deal neutral damage to Pokemon that normally resist it, though its low accuracy should be accounted for when using.
• Roost provides Noctowl with a form of reliable recovery, and can keep it healthy in time for setup. This also compensates for Noctowl's weakness to Stealth Rock. (weird sentence structure. reword please)

Set Details
========

• Maximum EVs in Special Attack and Speed allow Noctowl to hit as hard and quickly as possible, letting it become an offensive threat.
• A Modest nature is preferred so that Noctowl can function primarily as a wallbreaker, while still possessing the ability to outspeed threats such as Choice Scarf Primeape after an Agility boost.
• Tinted Lens is a crucial ability, as it lets Noctowl's moves hit resistant targets like Lycanroc and Alolan Sandslash (Jolly Snowslash in hail outspeeds Noctowl at +2. Maybe find a better example) neutrally.
• Flyinium Z gives Noctowl a one-time nuke that's capable of demolishing specially bulky Pokemon that normally resist its attacks such as Lanturn and Eelektross.
• Leftovers is a viable alternative if another teammate is using a Z-Crystal, giving Noctowl passive recovery. (What about Life Orb or some other attack boosting item? Leftovers seems like a passive item to me. I mean, Noctowl seems like a Pokemon that kinda needs its Z Crystal to break through some of the Pokemon you mention throughout the rest of the analysis like Regirock. This will need approval to drop from QC team, but I think either Leftovers needs to drop to OO or replace Leftovers with a boosting item like Life Orb or maybe Sky Plate?)

Usage Tips
========

• Noctowl functions best versus defensive teams, utilizing Work Up, Tinted Lens and Hurricane to break through teams that rely on Pokemon like Regirock, Oricorio-E and Lanturn to resist Flying-type attacks.
• Assess whether Agility or Work Up is more important to set up first. Against offensive teams, Agility gives Noctowl an edge over fast Pokemon that would otherwise threaten it(such as?). Work Up bodes well versus bulkier teams, allowing Noctowl to punch through walls after a sufficient amount of uses.
• Use Supersonic Skystrike if Noctowl finds itself in a situation where it can't afford to miss Hurricane, such as versus a pokemon(Pokemon) like Aggron, which threatens to OHKO Noctowl in return.
• In spite of great special bulk, Noctowl should not be used as a sponge to special attacks; instead, bring it in safely through moves like Volt Switch and U-Turn. (Examples of Slow Pivots ex. Lanturn (also provides Electric immunity while Noctowl resists/immune to Grass and Ground))A weakness to Stealth Rock and common Ice- and Electric-type special attacks is often a liability for Noctowl, so keeping it healthy increases its chances of being able to successfully set up on weaker special attackers such as Weezing(Again, I might change this example) and Defensive Mesprit.
• Status is also something Noctowl should try to avoid, as being put on a timer or getting speed cut in half cripples it.
• Use advantageous matchups (MOVE TO HERE using "such as") as setup time(as an opportunity to set up), as finding setup opportunities for Noctowl is key to its success(successfully sweeping). Pokemon like Weezing, Defensive Mesprit, and Gourgeist can't do much to Noctowl. (Move this sentence there <--)

Team Options
========

• Noctowl thrives on getting free switch-ins in order to start setting up, so pivoting Pokemon like Primeape and Togedemaru(these are fast pivots though, if Noctowl can't take a hit, then are faster pivots helpful? I would change the examples to slow pivots OR mention a Silvally form such as Silvally-Dragon that is a fast pivot, but can soften the blow by lower the attacking stats of the target with Parting Shot) can get it in safely. These pokemon(Pokemon) can also check Ice- and Rock-types such as Jynx and Lycanroc with their STAB moves, or lure in Pokemon with relatively low special defense like Gurdurr.
• Entry hazard removers such as Hitmonchan and Skuntank are important, as Noctowl is weak to Stealth Rock. Hitmonchan in particular is a fantastic check to Pokemon like Togedemaru and Aggron, while appreciating Noctowl's ability to break threats such as Weezing. (Skuntank appreciates the Ground-type immunity Noctowl provides)
• Support from entry hazards from Pokemon like Ferroseed and Clefairy helps weaken switch-ins, making Noctowl a more threatening wallbreaker. Most notably, Noctowl is capable of OHKOing Regirock after Stealth Rock damage with a boosted Supersonic Skystrike.
• Late-game cleaners such as Kingler, Carracosta, and Primeape appreciate Noctowl's ability to weaken bulky Pokemon such as Weezing, Gurdurr, and Poliwrath. (I would change the order to Poliwrath Gurdurr Weezing to better reflect the order of checking the cleaners)
• Screens / Memento can help Noctowl set up

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

• A Choice Specs set gives Noctowl more immediate power without the need to set up, turning it into a dedicated wallbreaker. However, this set faces heavy competition from other users of Choice Specs such as Drampa and Pyroar, which have far better raw offensive stats and overall better wallbreaking capabilities due to coverage moves and high speed, respectively.
• A Timid nature lets Noctowl naturally outspeed neutral base 80's and traditonal(traditional) Choice Scarf checks such as Togedemaru and Manectric after an Agility boost, but this further restricts Noctowl's average attacking power. (Togedemaru and Manectric can both viably run a Choice Scarf themselves AND are both Electric-types. Find 2 better examples, perhaps with wholly separate typings)
• Air Slash and Hyper Voice are more accurate and reliable STAB moves, but the severe drop in power from Hurricane is noticable (noticeable), and it limits its wallbreaking power.
• Coverage moves like Hidden Power Fighting and Heat Wave hit specific Pokemon like Aggron and Ferroseed especially hard, but otherwise serve little purpose, and are generally hard to fit onto moveslots. Moreover, Hurricane usually offers sufficient coverage as it is thanks to Tinted Lens.
• Substitute grants Noctowl a shield from harmful status moves such as Thunder Wave and Toxic, but the usefulness of Noctowl's other moveslots makes this move hard to fit. (If Leftovers does get moved to OO, this would be a great place to mention it)
• Lastly, while a Defensive Defog set sounds appealing with access to reliable recovery in Roost and good special bulk, Noctowl offers little as a defogger over Pokemon like Swanna, Articuno, and Lurantis, and its extremely passive nature makes it susceptible to becoming setup fodder.

Checks and Counters
===================
**Electric-Types**: Todegemaru, Alolan Raichu and Manectric hit Noctowl hard with their super-effective moves, and can use Noctowl switching out as an opportunity to pivot with Volt Switch or U-Turn. Todegemaru is the most notable example, as Choice Scarf variants can outspeed an Agility-boosted Noctowl and OHKO it with Zing Zap.

**Rock-Types**: Pokemon like Regirock and Aggron are sturdy(lol good one) enough to take on a Noctowl with a used up Z-Crystal or a lack of boosts,(Remove this comma plz) and threaten it with their respective Rock-type moves. These Pokemon can also set up Stealth Rock beforehand.(I would change beforehand to as they force Noctowl to switch out)

**Ice-Types**: Pokemon such as Jynx and Rotom-F can outspeed an unboosted Noctowl and hit it hard with their STAB moves, while Abomasnow threatens to hit Noctowl first with a priority Ice Shard. Choice Specs Aurorus can even OHKO Noctowl through its high Special Defense, though it must be careful about taking a boosted Supersonic Skystrike.

**Physical Attackers**: Pokemon like Kangaskhan, Kingler, and Zangoose have little issue punching though Noctowl's low Defense. Kingler can also utilize Agility itself to outspeed Noctowl attempting to boost its Speed. (although Kingler takes a BUNCH from Hurricane and therefore can risk setting up an Agility alongside Noctowl)

**Residual Damage**: Being weak to Stealth Rock and vulnerable to common Electric-, Rock- and Ice- type attacks makes Noctowl easy to wear down and limits its chances to set up or attack. Users of Toxic like Alolan Dugtrio and Clefairy can put Noctowl on a timer, severely reducing its time on the field.(although this allows Noctowl to possibly accumulate boosts)

Great Job!

 

[jklioe]

[OVERVIEW]

• Noctowl sports an excellent ability in Tinted Lens, making it capable of breaking past Pokemon that would normally resist its moves such as Regirock and Lanturn, in tandem with Work Up and a high Base Power STAB move in Hurricane.
• Access to Agility lets Noctowl double as a late-game sweeper, being able to outspeed prominent threats such as Choice Scarf Primeape and Alolan Raichu after a boost. Talk about how in combination with Work Up (Dual Dance), gives it versatility in match-ups vs offensive and defensive teams in the way that few other offensive Pokemon have as that's the main reason why Noctowl's niche is effective
• Respectable 100/96 special bulk grants Noctowl valuable setup opportunities versus special attackers such as Lilligant and Swanna Swanna isn't necessarily the best example, at least not when factoring the Z-move and the possible Brave Bird on mixed or physical set. It can set up though, but its opportunities are situational. Most Grasses are good examples to add, but also be sure to blend that together with some other unique examples like Sableye, Weezing, Poliwrath, and physical Spiritomb (don't get too heavy with the examples though, you may want to save some of these for Usage Tips when talking about what it can be used to find opportunities to set up against).
• On the contrary, Noctowl's paltry base 50 physical defense can prove troublesome, as common powerful attackers such as Togedemaru and Kingler can outspeed Noctowl if it does not have sufficient speed boosts and OHKO it. A weakness to Stealth Rock also hampers Noctowl's ability to take hits and successfully set up.
• Noctowl lacks immediate offensive pressure Well tbh this particular flaw tends to be offset by its incredibly powerful Z move which few can take reliably. That having been said, I would try to frame this flaw more in the sense of how it's reliant on its Z-move for immediate presence rather than lacking said presence outright, as even with Tinted Lens, its middling Special Attack and mediocre Speed mean that it needs to find opportunities to set up in order to become a sizeable threat.
• Noctowl faces stiff competition from other Flying- and Normal-type wallbreakers and sweepers such as Oricorio-G and Pyroar; the former can similarly break through Pokemon with its powerful dual STAB alongside access to a superior boosting move in Calm Mind, while the latter possesses a more significant speed tier and raw power. I would also potentially talk how it has competition with Kingler since its Dual Dance set has very similar match-up attributes against the playstyles that they both do well against and aside from that, well, it's Kingler compared to Noctowl (although the owl can certainly fare better against a lot of the Grass-types and stuff like Poliwrath). Be sure to touch upon this thoroughly.

name: Double Dance
move 1: Agility
move 2: Work Up
move 3: Hurricane
move 4: Roost
item: Flyinium Z
ability: Tinted Lens
nature: Modest
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

• Agility patches up Noctowl's below average Speed and lets it outpace an abundance of fast threats, including Jynx and Alolan Dugtrio It also allows it to outspeed every Choice Scarf user up to Primeape.
• Work Up is Noctowl's only method of boosting its Special Attack, giving it the functionality of a wallbreaker, capable of breaking through Pokemon like Eelektross and Regirock after a boost.
• Hurricane is Noctowl's main STAB move, with high Base Power and ability to deal neutral damage to Pokemon that normally resist it courtesy of Tinted Lens, though its low accuracy should be accounted for when using You're kind of wording this as if there is any other choice when it has to attack, which is odd considering that's its only attack on the set (and at least it has the z move to circumvent the accuracy issues). Also I would try to put a greater emphasis on its offensive presence with Hurricane as there are few Pokemon that can switch into this move for free when factoring in Tinted Lens. Also, some calcs would help, it OHKOs Pokemon like Eggy-A and Gourgeist after Stealth Rock Damage
• Roost provides Noctowl with a form of reliable recovery, keeping it healthy. This also compensates for Noctowl's weakness to Stealth Rock. Talk about some situations in which the temporary of its Flying type when Roosting is useful, such as for sponging weak Volt Switches from the likes of slower Pokemon like Lanturn and Eelektross

Set Details
========

• Maximum EVs in Special Attack and Speed allow Noctowl to hit as hard and quickly as possible, letting it become an offensive threat.
• A Modest nature is preferred so that Noctowl can function primarily as a wallbreaker, while still possessing the ability to outspeed threats such as Choice Scarf Primeape after an Agility boost. Modest nature also secures the OHKO against AV Hitmonchan and Skuntank with Skystrike
• Tinted Lens is a crucial ability, as it lets Noctowl's moves hit resistant targets like Aurorus and Alolan Dugtrio neutrally.
• Flyinium Z gives Noctowl a one-time nuke that's capable of demolishing specially bulky Pokemon that normally resist its attacks such as Lanturn and Eelektross. The move also has perfect accuracy, which can be useful for mitigating Hurricane's accuracy issues in a pinch
• Sky Plate is a viable alternative if another teammate is using a Z-Crystal, giving Noctowl more consistent damage output.

Usage Tips
========

• Noctowl functions best versus defensive teams, utilizing Work Up, Tinted Lens and Hurricane to break through teams that rely on Pokemon like Regirock, Oricorio-E and Lanturn to resist Flying-type attacks.
• Assess whether Agility or Work Up is more important to set up first. Against offensive teams, Agility gives Noctowl an edge over fast Pokemon that would otherwise threaten it like Floatzel and Jynx. Work Up bodes well versus bulkier teams, allowing Noctowl to punch through walls after a sufficient amount of uses.
• Use Supersonic Skystrike if Noctowl finds itself in a situation where it can't afford to miss Hurricane, such as versus a Pokemon like Aggron, which threatens to OHKO Noctowl in return. Also for when it can secure a kill that regular Hurricane can't, such as Carracosta (not to mention even the defensive set will be KOed after Rocks, something that regular doesn't), Pyroar, etc
• In spite of great special bulk, Noctowl should not be used as a sponge to special attacks; instead, bring it in safely through moves like Volt Switch and Parting Shot by slow pivots like Lanturn and Silvally-W. A weakness to Stealth Rock and common Ice- and Electric-type special attacks is often a liability for Noctowl, so keeping it healthy increases its chances of being able to successfully set up on weaker special attackers such as Bellossom and Defensive Mesprit. I think the second sentence can be its own bullet point, with some reference to Roost as it's related. You can use that to talk about in what situations Roost would be useful for
• Status is also something Noctowl should try to avoid, as being put on a timer or getting Speed cut in half cripples it.
• Use advantageous matchups as setup time, as this is the key to Noctowl's success. Examples of Pokemon that can't do much to Noctowl include Weezing, Defensive Mesprit, and Gourgeist-XL.
• You could also talk about how Flyinium Z's reducing Knock Off power can allow it to take advantage of weak users like Sableye, Tangela and Shuckle as that's a form of support in the sense that the rest of the team's members would usually prefer preserving their item when they can. Noctowl can then take advantage of each of these users.

Team Options
========

• Noctowl thrives on getting free switch-ins in order to start setting up, so slow pivoting Pokemon like Mesprit and Eelektross can get it in safely. Inversely, Silvally-Dragon operates well as a fast pivot thanks to Parting Shot lowering the foe's offensive stats.
• Entry hazard removers such as Hitmonchan and Skuntank are important, as Noctowl is weak to Stealth Rock. Hitmonchan is a fantastic check to Pokemon like Togedemaru and Aggron I'd be careful with how positively you're wording this, as Hitmonchan does not appreciate switching into either of these. It is an offensive threat though due to its STAB and priority, while appreciating Noctowl's ability to break threats such as Weezing. Skuntank also enjoys Noctowl being able to switch into Ground-type moves Eh it depends, the only Ground-type that Noctowl does rather well in beating is Gastrodon (and even then toxic is annoying).
• Support from entry hazards from Pokemon like Ferroseed and Clefairy helps weaken switch-ins, making Noctowl a more threatening wallbreaker. Most notably, Noctowl is capable of OHKOing Regirock after Stealth Rock damage with a boosted Supersonic Skystrike. They also appreciate Noctowl being able to take on the Knock Off users that I mentioned in Usage Tips since they hate having their Eviolite removed and Ferro especially loses to both Sableye and Tangela
• Late-game cleaners such as Kingler, Carracosta, and Primeape appreciate Noctowl's ability to weaken bulky Pokemon such as Weezing, Poliwrath, and Gurdurr.
• Talk about some blanket checks to physical attackers, as a big problem with how Noctowl is dealt with comes from the number of faster physical attackers that end up easily forcing it out, such as Kangaskhan, Stoutland, Primeape, Lycanroc, Kingler and Togedemaru. Stuff like Regirock, Tangela, Defensive Carracosta are good examples respectively. Add on about how Noctowl helps them also (examples like these have poor match ups against Grass-types, etc)
• Weezing as an addendum is another great mention as it blanket checks variants physical attackers also due to its huge Defense and Toxic Spikes is hugely useful in allowing it to breaking down some of Noctowl's checks like Lanturn and Regirock.

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

• A Choice Specs set gives Noctowl more immediate power without the need to set up, turning it into a dedicated wallbreaker. However, this set faces heavy competition from other users of Choice Specs such as Drampa and Pyroar, which have far better raw offensive stats and overall better wallbreaking capabilities due to coverage moves and high speed, respectively.
• A Timid nature lets Noctowl naturally outspeed neutral base 80's and Choice Scarf Togedemaru after an Agility boost, but this further restricts Noctowl's average attacking power.
• Air Slash and Hyper Voice are more accurate and reliable STAB moves, but the severe drop in power from Hurricane is noticeable, and it limits its wallbreaking power.
• Coverage moves like Hidden Power Fighting and Heat Wave hit specific Pokemon like Aggron and Ferroseed especially hard, but otherwise serve little purpose, and are generally hard to fit onto moveslots. Moreover, Hurricane usually offers sufficient coverage as it is thanks to Tinted Lens.
• Substitute grants Noctowl a shield from harmful status moves such as Thunder Wave and Toxic, but the usefulness of Noctowl's other moveslots makes this move hard to fit.
• Lastly, while a Defensive Defog set sounds appealing with access to reliable recovery in Roost and good special bulk, Noctowl offers little as a defogger over Pokemon like Swanna, Articuno, and Lurantis, and its extremely passive nature makes it susceptible to becoming setup fodder.

- Psycho Shift: Simultaneously cures status ailments while deflecting it back (notably Toxic), which effectively allows it to function surprisingly effective in the role of a stallbreaker against standard staples. The problem is that it would have to be run over Agility, which eclipses this option concerning overall usefulness.

Checks and Counters
===================
**Electric-Types**: Todegemaru, Alolan Raichu and Manectric hit Noctowl hard with their super-effective moves, and can use Noctowl switching out as an opportunity to pivot with Volt Switch or U-Turn. Todegemaru is the most notable example, as Choice Scarf variants can outspeed an Agility-boosted Noctowl and OHKO it with Zing Zap. Manectric viability runs Scarf too which is an issue for similar reasons. On Togedemaru, it's worth noting that it's one of the few resists that can switch into Supersonic Skystrike, allow it to soft check it in the way that the others struggle to do

**Rock-Types**: Pokemon like Regirock and Aggron are sturdy enough to take on a Noctowl with a used up Z-Crystal or a lack of boosts and threaten it with their respective Rock-type moves. These Pokemon can also take advantage of forcing Noctowl out by setting up Stealth Rock. Faster Rock-types such as Kabutops and Lycanroc are also very threatening even if they can't switch in, so talk about them as well. Also, Lycanroc has Accelrock to revenge kill Noctowl even after it has set up an Agility.

**Ice-Types**: Pokemon such as Jynx and Rotom-F can outspeed an unboosted Noctowl and hit it hard with their STAB moves, while Abomasnow threatens to hit Noctowl first with a priority Ice Shard. Choice Specs Aurorus can even OHKO Noctowl through its high Special Defense, though it must be careful about taking a boosted Supersonic Skystrike.

**Physical Attackers**: Pokemon like Kangaskhan, Kingler, and Zangoose have little issue punching though Noctowl's low Defense. Kingler can also utilize Agility itself to diminish any chances of Noctowl attempting to boost Speed. Um... no. It's not going to click Agility against a Noctowl that has already set up, nor would it make much sense to go for that option in general against it unless it's hard predicting it to switch out and is sure to sweep

**Residual Damage**: Being weak to Stealth Rock and vulnerable to common Electric-, Rock- and Ice- type attacks makes Noctowl easy to wear down and limits its chances to set up or attack. Users of Toxic like Oricorio-E and Clefairy can put Noctowl on a timer, severely reducing its time on the field. I personally don't think this section is necessary. Yes Noctowl is weak to Rocks, but Roost mitigates this enough to where it can overcome it in the right match-up and it's not like it's an x4 weak mon. I would just remove this section and instead include a section related to Status, moving the mentions of Toxic there and talking about paralysis (as for users you can talk about stuff like Mesprit)

You've got quite a bit that I want you to implement, but once you done that, take my QC check 1/3. Good stuff on the draft so far Tonda Gossa!

 

[tondas]

done

 

[Darkinium]

amcheck

[OVERVIEW]

• Noctowl sports an excellent ability in Tinted Lens, making it capable of breaking past Pokemon that would normally resist its moves such as Regirock and Lanturn, in tandem with Work Up and a high Base Power STAB move in Hurricane.
• Access to Agility lets Noctowl double as a late-game sweeper, being able to outspeed prominent threats such as Choice Scarf Primeape and Alolan Raichu after a boost. (I would put Alolan Raichu first and Choice Scarf Primeape second, because currently the wording could be taken as boosted Noctowl outspeeding Choice Scarf Alolan Raichu, which it doesn't.) This, coupled with Work Up, allows Noctowl to match up well versus both offensive and defensive teams alike.
• Respectable 100/96 special bulk grants Noctowl valuable setup opportunities versus special attackers such as Lilligant and Poliwrath.
• On the contrary, Noctowl's paltry base 50 physical defense can prove troublesome, as common powerful attackers such as Togedemaru and Kingler can outspeed Noctowl if it does not have sufficient speed boosts and OHKO it. A weakness to Stealth Rock also hampers Noctowl's ability to take hits and successfully set up.
• Noctowl is reliant on the use of a Z-Move to apply offensive pressure, and even with Tinted Lens, its middling Special Attack and mediocre Speed mean that it needs to find opportunities to set up in order to become a sizeable threat. (This might be a good place to point out boosted Noctowl being outsped by Choice Scarf Togedemaru and Pyroar.)
• Noctowl faces stiff competition from other Flying- and Normal-type wallbreakers and sweepers such as Oricorio-G and Pyroar; the former can similarly break through Pokemon with its powerful dual STAB alongside access to a superior boosting move in Calm Mind, while the latter possesses a more significant speed tier and raw power. As a user of Double Dance, Noctowl also competes with Kingler, which similarly fares well versus offensive and defensive teams. While Kingler struggles versus the likes of Poliwrath and Tangela, it also boasts a far better Attack stat and Knock Off to weaken checks.

name: Double Dance
move 1: Agility
move 2: Work Up
move 3: Hurricane
move 4: Roost
item: Flyinium Z
ability: Tinted Lens
nature: Modest
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

• Agility patches up Noctowl's below average Speed and lets it outpace an abundance of fast threats, including Jynx, Alolan Dugtrio, and every user of Choice Scarf up to Primeape.
• Work Up is Noctowl's only method of boosting its Special Attack, giving it the functionality of a wallbreaker, capable of breaking through Pokemon like Eelektross and Regirock after a boost. (I'd mention it sorta needs its Z-Move to burst through them after Work Up.)
• Hurricane is Noctowl's STAB move of choice, with its high Base Power and ability to deal neutral damage to most targets courtesy of Tinted Lens, while also securing a OHKO on Pokemon like Alolan Exeggutor and Gourgeist-XL after Stealth Rock damage. However, its low accuracy should be accounted for when using.
• Roost provides Noctowl with a form of reliable recovery, keeping it healthy. This also compensates for Noctowl's weakness to Stealth Rock, and can be used to sponge slower users of Volt Switch like Lanturn and Probopass. (Maybe mention this allows to break/sweep again later in the game, not have its sweep cut short due to chip, or set up multiple times against passive foes. It also plays around Sucker Punch. I'm not really sold on the point about sponging Volt Switch, though.)

Set Details
========

• Maximum EVs in Special Attack and Speed allow Noctowl to hit as hard and quickly as possible, letting it become an offensive threat. (I'd instead say that the EVs patch up its otherwise mediocre Special Attack and Speed.)
• A Modest nature is preferred so that Noctowl can function primarily as a wallbreaker, while still possessing the ability to outspeed threats such as Choice Scarf Primeape after an Agility boost. This also ensures a guaranteed OHKO on Assault Vest Hitmonchan and Skuntank without the need of setup.
• Tinted Lens is a crucial ability, as it lets Noctowl's moves hit resistant targets like Aurorus and Alolan Dugtrio neutrally.
• Flyinium Z gives Noctowl a one-time nuke that's capable of demolishing specially bulky Pokemon that normally resist its attacks such as Lanturn and Eelektross. (Especially after a Work Up boost.) Its perfect accuracy is also helpful in dire situations where Noctowl needs to land an attack.
• Sky Plate is a viable alternative if another teammate is using a Z-Crystal, giving Noctowl more consistent damage output.

Usage Tips
========

• Noctowl functions best versus defensive teams, utilizing Work Up, Tinted Lens and Hurricane to break through teams that rely on Pokemon like Regirock, Oricorio-E and Lanturn to resist Flying-type attacks.
• Assess whether Agility or Work Up is more important to set up first. Against offensive teams, Agility gives Noctowl an edge over fast Pokemon that would otherwise threaten it like Floatzel and Jynx. Work Up bodes well versus bulkier teams, allowing Noctowl to punch through walls (such as?) after a sufficient amount of uses.
• Use Supersonic Skystrike if Noctowl finds itself in a situation where it can't afford to miss Hurricane, such as versus a Pokemon like Aggron, which threatens to OHKO Noctowl in return. It's also useful for securing an OHKO in the face of Pokemon like Carracosta and Pyroar, where Noctowl can't afford to set up.
• In spite of great special bulk, Noctowl should not be used as a sponge to special attacks; instead, bring it in safely through moves like Volt Switch and Parting Shot by slow pivots like Lanturn and Silvally-W. (I believe it should be Silvally-Water, not Silvally-W.)
• A weakness to Stealth Rock and common Ice- and Electric-type special attacks (I'd just mention chip from attacks in general, not just Ice- and Electric-.) is often a liability for Noctowl, so keeping it healthy increases its chances of being able to successfully set up on weaker special attackers such as Bellossom and Defensive Mesprit. Use Roost to heal off damage versus Pokemon that can't do much harm to Noctowl, such as Weezing and Audino, though it must be wary of the occasional Toxic.
• Status is also something Noctowl should try to avoid, as being put on a timer or getting Speed cut in half cripples it. (Name some Pokemon that can inflict said status onto Noctowl.)
• Use advantageous matchups as setup time, as this is the key to Noctowl's success. (Namely against passive foes, or Pokemon that are threatened out by Hurricane.) Examples of Pokemon that can't do much to Noctowl include Weezing, Defensive Mesprit, and Gourgeist-XL.
• Noctowl can take advantage of weaker Knock Off users such as Sableye and Tangela, as not only can they not do much in return (allowing Noctowl to set up), but Noctowl's teammates appreciate being able to preserve their items.

Team Options
========

• Noctowl thrives on getting free switch-ins in order to start setting up, so slow pivoting Pokemon like Mesprit and Eelektross can get it in safely. Inversely, Silvally-Dragon operates well as a fast pivot thanks to Parting Shot lowering the foe's offensive stats. (I'd name some other Silvally forms, too. The drops also make it easier for Noctowl to set up.)
• Entry hazard removers such as Hitmonchan and Skuntank are important, as Noctowl is weak to Stealth Rock. (Which means it's harder for it to set up when SR is on the field.) Hitmonchan works as an offensive check to Pokemon like Togedemaru and Aggron, while appreciating Noctowl's ability to break threats such as Weezing. Skuntank also enjoys Noctowl being able to switch into Ground-type attacks.
• Support from entry hazards from Pokemon like Mesprit and Carracosta helps weaken switch-ins, making Noctowl a more threatening wallbreaker. (Mesprit also offers HW, allowing Noctowl to play more recklessly early-game.) Most notably, Noctowl is capable of OHKOing Regirock after Stealth Rock damage with a boosted Supersonic Skystrike. Certain users of Stealth Rock like Ferroseed and Clefairy appreciate Noctowl being able to absorb Knock Off from weaker users of the move like Shuckle. (There are probably better examples than Shuckle here.)
• Late-game cleaners such as Kingler, Carracosta, and Primeape appreciate Noctowl's ability to weaken bulky Pokemon such as Weezing, Poliwrath, and Gurdurr.
• Blanket checks to physical attackers such as Regirock, Defensive Carracosta, and Gurdurr can all take powerful physical hits for Noctowl, while it can check Grass-types in return, like Alolan Exeggutor and Lurantis. Weezing in particular makes for an excellent partner, as it can also utilize Toxic Spikes to wear down Noctowl's checks such as Lanturn and Regirock.

(Wallbreakers to help Noctowl sweep late-game with Agility?)

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

• A Choice Specs set gives Noctowl more immediate power without the need to set up, turning it into a dedicated wallbreaker. However, this set faces heavy competition from other users of Choice Specs such as Drampa and Pyroar, which have far better raw offensive stats and overall better wallbreaking capabilities due to coverage moves and high speed, respectively.
• A Timid nature lets Noctowl naturally outspeed neutral base 80's (such as?) and Choice Scarf Togedemaru (and Pyroar) after an Agility boost, but this further restricts Noctowl's average attacking power.
• Air Slash and Hyper Voice are more accurate and reliable STAB moves, but the severe drop in power from Hurricane is noticeable, and it limits its wallbreaking power.
• Coverage moves like Hidden Power Fighting and Heat Wave hit specific Pokemon like Aggron and Ferroseed especially hard, but otherwise serve little purpose, and are generally hard to fit onto moveslots. Moreover, Hurricane usually offers sufficient coverage as it is thanks to Tinted Lens.
• Substitute grants Noctowl a shield from harmful status moves such as Thunder Wave and Toxic, but the usefulness of Noctowl's other moveslots makes this move hard to fit.
• Using Psycho Shift with Psychium Z lets Noctowl perform well as a stallbreaker, granting it +2 in Special Attack and swapping whatever status condition is inflicted onto it with the target. (Allowing it to bypass Toxic and Thunder Wave.) However, having to forfeit Agility greatly hinders its matchup versus fast offensive teams, and as a stallbreaker, it faces competition with Pokemon such as Oricorio-G. (You also don't have the reliable hit + nuke of SSSS.)
• Lastly, while a Defensive Defog set sounds appealing with access to reliable recovery in Roost and good special bulk, Noctowl offers little as a defogger over Pokemon like Swanna, Articuno, and Lurantis, and its extremely passive nature makes it susceptible to becoming setup fodder.

Checks and Counters
=================== (There should be a space between this line and the first check/counter)
**Specially Defensive Walls**: Type: Null and Munchlax take pathetic amounts of damage from even a boosted Noctowl and threaten to use setup of their own to break through Noctowl. Clefairy can use Calm Mind to boost its Special Defense and beat Noctowl in a one-on-one situation, but does not appreciate taking boosted damage beforehand.

**Electric-Types**: Togedemaru, Alolan Raichu, and Manectric hit Noctowl hard with their super-effective moves, and can use Noctowl switching out as an opportunity to pivot with Volt Switch or U-Turn. Togedemaru is the most notable example, as Choice Scarf variants can outspeed an Agility-boosted Noctowl and OHKO it with Zing Zap, and also quad resists Hurricane, meaning it can often switch in directly to Noctowl attacking.

(Lanturn and Eelektross should be mentioned in one of those two sections, alongside the fact that they dislike a +1 SSSS.)

**Rock-Types**: Rock-types such as Regirock and Aggron are sturdy enough to take on a Noctowl with a used up Z-Crystal or a lack of boosts and threaten it with their respective Rock-type moves. Faster Rock-types such as Lycanoc and Kabutops can outspeed Noctowl without any Agility boosts, and Lycanroc can always hit first with Accelerock. These Pokemon can also take advantage of forcing Noctowl out by setting up Stealth Rock.

**Ice-Types**: Pokemon like Jynx and Rotom-F can outspeed an unboosted Noctowl and hit it hard with their STAB moves (but have trouble if Noctowl has boosted with Agility), while Abomasnow threatens to hit Noctowl first with a priority Ice Shard. Choice Specs Aurorus can even OHKO Noctowl through its high Special Defense, though it must be careful about taking a boosted Supersonic Skystrike.

(The "T" in "type" shouldn't be capitalized.)

**Physical Attackers**: Pokemon like Kangaskhan, Kingler, and Zangoose have little issue punching though Noctowl's low Defense. As mentioned above, users of priority such as Lycanoc and Abomasnow can hit Noctowl super-effectively.

**Status**: Users of Toxic like Oricorio-E and Clefairy can put Noctowl on a timer, severely reducing its time on the field. Being inflicted with Paralysis from Pokemon like Mesprit and Volbeat slows Noctowl down to a crawl, nullifying any Agility boosts it could've possibly accumulated.

 

[tondas]

Implemented a good portion of this

 

[tondas]

Updated with recent rises/drops, kept stuff like Omastar and Aromatisse out because they seem risky at this point in time.

 

[TONE]

[OVERVIEW]

• Noctowl sports an excellent ability in Tinted Lens, making it capable of breaking past Pokemon that would normally resist its moves such as Regirock and Lanturn, in tandem with Work Up and a high Base Power STAB move in Hurricane.
• Access to Agility lets Noctowl double as a late-game sweeper, being able to outspeed prominent threats such as Alolan Raichu and Choice Scarf Primeape after a boost. This, coupled with Work Up, allows Noctowl to match up well versus both offensive and defensive teams alike.
• Respectable 100/96 special bulk grants Noctowl valuable setup opportunities versus special attackers such as Lilligant and Poliwrath.
• On the contrary, Noctowl's paltry base 50 physical defense can prove troublesome, as common powerful attackers such as Togedemaru and Kingler can outspeed Noctowl if it does not have sufficient speed boosts and OHKO it. A weakness to Stealth Rock also hampers Noctowl's ability to take hits and successfully set up.
• Noctowl is reliant on the use of a Z-Move to apply offensive pressure, and even with Tinted Lens, its middling Special Attack and mediocre Speed mean that it needs to find opportunities to set up in order to become a sizeable threat.
• Even after an Agility boost, Noctowl fails to outspeed faster users of Choice Scarf such as Togedemaru and Pyroar, both of which do serious damage to Noctowl.
• Noctowl faces stiff competition from other Flying- and Normal-type wallbreakers and sweepers such as Oricorio-G and Pyroar; the former can similarly break through Pokemon with its powerful dual STAB alongside access to a superior boosting move in Calm Mind, while the latter possesses a more significant speed tier and raw power. As a user of Double Dance, Noctowl also competes with Kingler, which similarly fares well versus offensive and defensive teams. While Kingler struggles versus the likes of Poliwrath and Tangela, it also boasts a far better Attack stat and Knock Off to weaken checks. (also not weak to Stealth Rock.)

name: Double Dance
move 1: Agility
move 2: Work Up
move 3: Hurricane
move 4: Roost
item: Flyinium Z
ability: Tinted Lens
nature: Modest
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

• Agility patches up Noctowl's below average Speed and lets it outpace an abundance of fast threats, including Jynx, Alolan Dugtrio, and every user of Choice Scarf up to Primeape.
• Work Up is Noctowl's only method of boosting its Special Attack, giving it the functionality of a wallbreaker, capable of breaking through Pokemon like Eelektross and Regirock after a boost coupled with Flyinium Z.
• Hurricane is Noctowl's STAB move of choice, with its high Base Power and ability to deal neutral damage to most targets courtesy of Tinted Lens, while also securing a OHKO on Pokemon like Alolan Exeggutor and Gourgeist-XL after Stealth Rock damage. However, its low accuracy should be accounted for when using.
• Roost provides Noctowl with a form of reliable recovery, keeping it healthy or providing it an additional chance to sweep or wallbreak. This also compensates for Noctowl's weakness to Stealth Rock, and can be used to sponge slower users of Volt Switch such as Lanturn and Probopass.

Set Details
========

• Maximum EVs in Special Attack and Speed allow Noctowl to hit as hard and quickly as possible, letting it become an offensive threat.
• A Modest nature is preferred so that Noctowl can function primarily as a wallbreaker, while still possessing the ability to outspeed threats such as Choice Scarf Primeape after an Agility boost. This also ensures a guaranteed OHKO on Assault Vest Hitmonchan and Skuntank without the need of setup.
• Tinted Lens is a crucial ability, as it lets Noctowl's moves hit resistant targets like Aurorus and Alolan Dugtrio neutrally.
• Flyinium Z gives Noctowl a one-time nuke that's capable of demolishing specially bulky Pokemon that normally resist its attacks such as Lanturn and Eelektross. Its perfect accuracy is also helpful in dire situations where Noctowl needs to land an attack.
• Sky Plate is a viable alternative if another teammate is using a Z-Crystal, giving Noctowl more consistent damage output.

Usage Tips
========

• Noctowl functions best versus defensive teams, utilizing Work Up, Tinted Lens and Hurricane to break through teams that rely on Pokemon like Regirock, Oricorio-E and Lanturn to resist Flying-type attacks.
• Assess whether Agility or Work Up is more important to set up first. Against offensive teams, Agility gives Noctowl an edge over fast Pokemon that would otherwise threaten it like Floatzel and Jynx. Work Up bodes well versus bulkier teams, allowing Noctowl to punch through walls after a sufficient amount of uses.
• Use Supersonic Skystrike if Noctowl finds itself in a situation where it can't afford to miss Hurricane, such as versus a Pokemon like Aggron, which threatens to OHKO Noctowl in return. It's also useful for securing an OHKO in the face of Pokemon like Carracosta and Pyroar, where Noctowl can't afford to set up.
• In spite of great special bulk, Noctowl should not be used as a sponge to special attacks; instead, bring it in safely through moves like Volt Switch and Parting Shot by slow pivots like Lanturn and Silvally-Water.
• A weakness to Stealth Rock and susceptibility to residual damage is often a liability for Noctowl, so keeping it healthy increases its chances of being able to successfully set up versus weaker special attackers such as Bellossom and Defensive Mesprit. Use Roost to heal off damage versus Pokemon that can't do much harm to Noctowl, such as Weezing and Audino, though it must be wary of the occasional Toxic.
• Status is also something Noctowl should try to avoid, as Pokemon like Clefairy and Mesprit can put on a timer with Toxic or cut its Speed in half with Thunder Wave and cripple it.
• Use advantageous matchups as setup time, as this is the key to Noctowl's success. Examples of Pokemon that can't do much to Noctowl include Weezing, Defensive Mesprit, and Gourgeist-XL. Other Pokemon like Gurdurr and Torterra (rip) are naturally threatened out by Hurricane.
• Noctowl can take advantage of weaker Knock Off users such as Sableye and Tangela, as they can't do much in return, and Noctowl can use this as setup time. Noctowl's teammates also appreciate being able to preserve their items.

Team Options
========

• Noctowl thrives on getting free switch-ins in order to start setting up, so slow pivoting Pokemon like Mesprit and Eelektross can get it in safely. Inversely, Silvally-Dragon operates well as a fast pivot thanks to Parting Shot lowering the foe's offensive stats (which makes it easier for Noctowl to set up.). (specify that Silvally can also Defog hazards away. Also why Silvally-Dragon specifically?)
• Entry hazard removers such as Hitmonchan and Skuntank are important, as Noctowl is weak to Stealth Rock and they greatly hinder its ability to safely set up. Hitmonchan works as an offensive check to Pokemon like Togedemaru and Aggron, while appreciating Noctowl's ability to break threats such as Weezing. Skuntank also enjoys Noctowl being able to switch into Ground-type attacks.
• Support from entry hazards from Pokemon like Mesprit and Qwilfish helps weaken switch-ins, making Noctowl a more threatening wallbreaker. Mesprit even offers Healing Wish to provide emergency support for Noctowl. Clefairy in particular appreciate Noctowl being able to absorb Knock Off from weaker users of the move like Shuckle (I'd specify more weaking Aggron and other Steel-types with SSSS as opposed to trying to sponge a weak Knock Off.). A notable feat that Noctowl is able to pull off with the aid of Stealth Rock is the capability of OHKOing Regirock with a boosted Supersonic Skystrike.
• Wallbreakers such as Alolan Exeggutor and Aggron weaken defensive Pokemon like Audino and Clefairy, paving the way for Noctowl to sweep using Agility.
• Similarly, late-game cleaners such as Kingler, Carracosta, and Primeape appreciate Noctowl's ability to weaken bulky Pokemon such as Weezing, Poliwrath, and Gurdurr.
• Blanket checks to physical attackers such as Regirock, Defensive Carracosta, and Gurdurr can all take powerful physical hits for Noctowl, while it can check Grass-types in return, like Alolan Exeggutor and Lurantis. Weezing in particular makes for an excellent partner, as it can also utilize Toxic Spikes to wear down Noctowl's checks such as Lanturn and Regirock.

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

• A Choice Specs set gives Noctowl more immediate power without the need to set up, turning it into a dedicated wallbreaker. However, this set faces heavy competition from other users of Choice Specs such as Drampa and Pyroar, which have far better raw offensive stats and overall better wallbreaking capabilities due to coverage moves and high speed, respectively.
• A Timid nature lets Noctowl naturally outspeed neutral base 80's like Mesprit and Shiftry, as well as Choice Scarf Togedemaru after an Agility boost, but this further restricts Noctowl's average attacking power.
• Air Slash and Hyper Voice are more accurate and reliable STAB moves, but the severe drop in power from Hurricane is noticeable, and it limits its wallbreaking power.
• Hidden Power Fighting can be used to hit Pokemon like Aggron and Probopass especially hard, but otherwise serve little purpose, and is generally hard to fit onto moveslots. Moreover, Hurricane usually offers sufficient coverage as it is thanks to Tinted Lens.
• Substitute grants Noctowl a shield from harmful status moves such as Thunder Wave and Toxic, but the usefulness of Noctowl's other moveslots makes this move hard to fit.
• Using Psycho Shift with Psychium Z lets Noctowl perform well as a stallbreaker, granting it +2 in Special Attack and swapping whatever harmful status condition is inflicted onto it with the target. However, having to forfeit Agility and a powerful nuke in Flyinium Z greatly hinders its matchup versus fast offensive teams, and as a stallbreaker, it faces competition with Pokemon such as Oricorio-G.
• Lastly, while a Defensive Defog set sounds appealing with access to reliable recovery in Roost and good special bulk, Noctowl offers little as a defogger over Pokemon like Swanna, Articuno, and Altaria, and its extremely passive nature makes it susceptible to becoming setup fodder.

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

**Specially Defensive Walls**: Type: Null and Munchlax take pathetic amounts of damage from even a boosted Noctowl and threaten to use setup of their own to break through Noctowl. Clefairy can use Calm Mind to boost its special stats and beat Noctowl in a one-on-one situation, but does not appreciate taking boosted damage beforehand.

**Electric-types**: Togedemaru, Alolan Raichu, and Manectric hit Noctowl hard with their super-effective moves, and can use Noctowl switching out as an opportunity to pivot with Volt Switch or U-Turn. Togedemaru is the most notable example, as Choice Scarf variants can outspeed an Agility-boosted Noctowl and OHKO it with Zing Zap, and also quad resists Hurricane, meaning it can often switch in directly to Noctowl attacking. Certain Electric-types like Eelektross and Lanturn possess high special bulk and can switch in on unboosted attacks.

**Rock-types**: Rock-types such as Regirock and Aggron are sturdy enough to take on a Noctowl with a used up Z-Crystal or a lack of boosts and threaten it with their respective Rock-type moves. Faster Rock-types like Kabutops can outspeed Noctowl without any Agility boosts, and Lycanroc can always hit first with Accelerock. These Pokemon can also take advantage of forcing Noctowl out by setting up Stealth Rock.

**Ice-types**: Pokemon like Jynx and Rotom-F can outspeed an unboosted Noctowl and hit it hard with their STAB moves, while Abomasnow threatens to hit Noctowl first with a priority Ice Shard. Choice Specs Aurorus can even OHKO Noctowl through its high Special Defense, though it must be careful about taking a boosted Supersonic Skystrike.

**Physical Attackers**: Pokemon like Kangaskhan, Kingler, and Zangoose have little issue punching though Noctowl's low Defense. As mentioned above, users of priority such as Lycanoc and Abomasnow can hit Noctowl super-effectively.

**Status**: Users of Toxic like Oricorio-E and Clefairy can put Noctowl on a timer, severely reducing its time on the field. Being inflicted with Paralysis from Pokemon like Mesprit and Volbeat slows Noctowl down to a crawl, nullifying any Agility boosts it could've possibly accumulated.

(Add in Faster Threats to C&C as mons like Kangaskhan, Skuntank, etc can all outspeed Noctowl and threaten it out if Noctowl isn't at +2 Speed. Stealth Rock can be added as well, but you can easily just expand Status to include rocks and rename it from Status to Residual Damage.)

QC 2/3.

 

[tondas]

ty tone my man, this is ready for the last check

 

[yogi]

[OVERVIEW]

Noctowl sports an excellent ability in Tinted Lens, making it capable of breaking past Pokemon that would normally resist its moves such as Regirock and Lanturn, in tandem with Work Up and a high Base Power STAB move in Hurricane. Access to Agility lets Noctowl double as a late-game sweeper, being able to outspeed prominent threats such as Alolan Raichu and Choice Scarf Primeape after a boost. This, coupled with Work Up, allows Noctowl to match up well versus both offensive and defensive teams alike. Noctowl's respectable 100/96 special bulk also grants it valuable setup opportunities versus special attackers such as Lilligant and Poliwrath (this is only if it forces the latter out and it doesn't toxic. lilligant is always a shaky option because it can just sleep powder and switch). On the contrary, Noctowl's paltry base 50 physical defense can prove troublesome, as common powerful attackers such as Togedemaru and Kingler can outspeed Noctowl if it does not have sufficient speed boosts and OHKO it (mention that togedemaru outspeeds modest even when it's at +2). A weakness to Stealth Rock also hampers Noctowl's ability to take hits and successfully set up (eh, this is less relevant because it has decent enough special bulk and roost to mitigate this). Furthermore, Noctowl is reliant on the use of a Z-Move to apply offensive pressure, and even with Tinted Lens, its middling Special Attack and mediocre Speed mean that it needs to find opportunities to set up in order to become a sizeable threat. Even after an Agility boost, Noctowl fails to outspeed faster users of Choice Scarf such as Togedemaru and Pyroar, both of which do serious damage to Noctowl (eh, pyroar only does a max of 57% with fire blast though). Finally, Noctowl faces stiff competition from other Flying- and Normal-type wallbreakers and sweepers such as Oricorio-G and Pyroar; the former can similarly break through Pokemon with its powerful dual STAB alongside access to a superior boosting move in Calm Mind (and can equally break stall and offensive teams alike), while the latter possesses a more significant speed tier and raw power. As a user of Double Dance, Noctowl also competes with Kingler, which similarly fares well versus offensive and defensive teams. While Kingler struggles versus the likes of Poliwrath and Tangela, it also boasts a far better Attack stat and Knock Off to weaken checks, in addition to not having Stealth Rock be a major hindrance to its sweeping capabilities.

name: Double Dance
move 1: Agility
move 2: Work Up
move 3: Hurricane
move 4: Roost
item: Flyinium Z
ability: Tinted Lens
nature: Modest
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Agility patches up Noctowl's below average Speed and lets it outpace an abundance of fast threats, including Jynx, Alolan Dugtrio, and every user of Choice Scarf up to Primeape (last bit is phrased weirdly, should probably just specify the speed tier). Work Up is Noctowl's only method of boosting its Special Attack, giving it the functionality of a wallbreaker, capable of breaking through Pokemon like Eelektross and Regirock after a boost coupled with Flyinium Z. Hurricane is Noctowl's STAB move of choice, with its high Base Power and ability to deal neutral damage to most targets courtesy of Tinted Lens, while also securing a OHKO on Pokemon like Alolan Exeggutor and Gourgeist-XL after Stealth Rock damage (i mean you always secure the ohko on the latter regardless so shuffle this bit around). However, its low accuracy should be accounted for when using. Roost provides Noctowl with a form of reliable recovery, keeping it healthy or providing it an additional chance to sweep or wallbreak. This also compensates for Noctowl's weakness to Stealth Rock, and can be used to sponge slower users of Volt Switch such as Lanturn and Probopass (probo is gonna be pretty irrelevant right now, since ferroseed left).

Set Details
========

Maximum EVs in Special Attack and Speed allow Noctowl to hit as hard and quickly as possible, letting it become an offensive threat. A Modest nature is preferred so that Noctowl can function primarily as a wallbreaker, while still possessing the ability to outspeed threats such as Choice Scarf Primeape after an Agility boost (100% mention timid. outspeeding almost every weather abuser at +2 while also outspeeding stuff like choice scarf togedemaru can be very useful). This also ensures a guaranteed OHKO on Assault Vest Hitmonchan and Skuntank without the need of setup. Tinted Lens is a crucial ability, as it lets Noctowl's moves hit resistant targets like Aurorus and Alolan Dugtrio neutrally (i don't think alolan dugtrio is a good shout, given how it's very, very frail. regirock would be a nicer one). Flyinium Z gives Noctowl a one-time nuke that's capable of demolishing specially bulky Pokemon that normally resist its attacks such as Lanturn and Eelektross. Its perfect accuracy is also helpful in dire situations where Noctowl needs to land an attack. Sky Plate is a viable alternative if another teammate is using a Z-Crystal, giving Noctowl more consistent damage output. (but misses out on "insert mons here", because you want to stress fly z is really the better option and if you're using noctowl you've already built to accommodate it on your team)

Usage Tips
========

Noctowl functions best versus defensive teams (specify balance or bulky offense, as defensive teams kinda also includes stall and semi-stall in it), utilizing Work Up, Tinted Lens and Hurricane to break through teams that rely on Pokemon like Regirock, Oricorio-E and Lanturn to resist Flying-type attacks. Assess whether Agility or Work Up is more important to set up first. Against offensive teams, Agility gives Noctowl an edge over fast Pokemon that would otherwise threaten it like Floatzel and Jynx (jynx is a good shout but technically 1v1 float will hard lose afaik, something like kabutops or alolan sandslash would work though, and also works into how they are not resists). Work Up bodes well versus bulkier teams, allowing Noctowl to punch through walls after a sufficient amount of uses (any calcs that help show what a plus one z move does, or even a +1 hurricane. i'd also briefly mention pokemon it can set up on too). Use Supersonic Skystrike if Noctowl finds itself in a situation where it can't afford to miss Hurricane, such as versus a Pokemon like Aggron, which threatens to OHKO Noctowl in return. It's also useful for securing an OHKO in the face of Pokemon like Carracosta and Pyroar, where Noctowl can't afford to set up (depends what kind of pyroar. against z move it can't, but in some situations it can set up versus both choice specs and choice scarf sets).

talk about abusing choice locked pokemon as an expansion to what i explained just above, this is one of the best ways it can set up.

In spite of great special bulk, Noctowl should not be used as a sponge to special attacks; instead, bring it in safely through moves like Volt Switch and Parting Shot by slow pivots like Lanturn and Silvally-Water. A weakness to Stealth Rock and susceptibility to residual damage is often a liability for Noctowl, so keeping it healthy increases its chances of being able to successfully set up versus weaker special attackers such as Bellossom and Defensive Mesprit. Use Roost to heal off damage versus Pokemon that can't do much harm to Noctowl, such as Weezing and Audino, though it must be wary of the occasional Toxic. Status is also something Noctowl should try to avoid, as Pokemon like Clefairy and Mesprit can put on a timer with Toxic or cut its Speed in half with Thunder Wave and cripple it (toxic clefairy isn't really a set, so use a different user of toxic). Use advantageous matchups as setup time, as this is the key to Noctowl's success. Examples of Pokemon that can't do much to Noctowl include Weezing, Defensive Mesprit, and Gourgeist-XL (this is basically a repeated point from earlier, so it's rather redundant). Other Pokemon like Gurdurr and Alolan Exeggutor are naturally threatened out by Hurricane (instead expand on this point, but mention 50/50s). Noctowl can take advantage of weaker Knock Off users such as Sableye and Tangela, as they can't do much in return, and Noctowl can use this as setup time (sableye can potentially taunt). Noctowl's teammates also appreciate being able to preserve their items. (it's really not a knock off sponge like some other z move users, so this may be misleading)

Team Options
========

Noctowl thrives on getting free switch-ins in order to start setting up, so slow pivoting Pokemon like Mesprit and Eelektross can get it in safely. (considering mesprit is mentioned in detail later on, i'd be more inclined to mention a different pokemon here) Inversely, Silvally-Dragon operates well as a fast pivot thanks to Parting Shot lowering the foe's offensive stats, giving Noctowl an easier shot at setting up, and its ability to unleash a powerful Draco Meteor and target Steel-types like Togedemaru with Flamethrower can secure a potential sweep for Noctowl. Entry hazard removers such as Hitmonchan and Skuntank are important, as Noctowl is weak to Stealth Rock and they greatly hinder its ability to safely set up. Hitmonchan works as an offensive check to Pokemon like Togedemaru and Aggron, while appreciating Noctowl's ability to break threats such as Weezing (something something mention skuntank's set: which would be better, physical or special? if physical then mention pursuit and if special then mention acid spray helping either itself or potentially noctowl to wallbreak). Skuntank also enjoys Noctowl being able to switch into Ground-type attacks. Support from entry hazards from Pokemon like Mesprit and Qwilfish helps weaken switch-ins, making Noctowl a more threatening wallbreaker (qwilfish can suicide with explosion, offers taunt support, etc. etc.). A notable feat that Noctowl is able to pull off with the aid of Stealth Rock is the capability of OHKOing Regirock with a boosted Supersonic Skystrike. Mesprit even offers Healing Wish to provide emergency support for Noctowl. Clefairy also appreciates Noctowl being able to power through Steel-types like Aggron and Mawile with Supersonic Skystrike, and absorb Knock Off from weaker users of the move like Audino. Wallbreakers such as Alolan Exeggutor and Aggron weaken defensive Pokemon like Audino and Clefairy, paving the way for Noctowl to sweep using Agility. Similarly, late-game cleaners such as Kingler, Carracosta, and Primeape appreciate Noctowl's ability to weaken bulky Pokemon such as Weezing, Poliwrath, and Gurdurr. Blanket checks to physical attackers such as Regirock, Defensive Carracosta, and Gurdurr can all take powerful physical hits for Noctowl, while it can check Grass-types in return, like Alolan Exeggutor and Lurantis (i err, don't want to take a z draco to the face personally). Weezing in particular makes for an excellent partner, as it can also utilize Toxic Spikes to wear down Noctowl's checks such as Lanturn and Regirock.

some of this seems rather spliced. i'd reread this and try to make it flow better before sending to gp as it does feels like it's still in bullets in several place, which is something we want to avoid

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

A Choice Specs set gives Noctowl more immediate power without the need to set up, turning it into a dedicated wallbreaker. However, this set faces heavy competition from other users of Choice Specs such as Drampa and Pyroar, which have far better raw offensive stats and overall better wallbreaking capabilities due to coverage moves and high speed, respectively (i mean, to be quite frank tinted lens pokemon do not require coverage moves because they're almost always "unresisted"). A Timid nature lets Noctowl naturally outspeed neutral base 80's like Mesprit and Shiftry, as well as Choice Scarf Togedemaru after an Agility boost, but this further restricts Noctowl's average attacking power (this can be moved to set details, i think it's a decent enough option that doesn't deserve sitting in oo). Air Slash and Hyper Voice are more accurate and reliable STAB moves, but the severe drop in power from Hurricane is noticeable, and it limits its wallbreaking power (like, air slash is super piss weak and fails to break "insert mons here"). Hidden Power Fighting can be used to hit Pokemon like Aggron and Probopass especially hard, but otherwise serve little purpose, and is generally hard to fit onto moveslots (aggron is already nuked to hell and back when at +1). Moreover, Hurricane usually offers sufficient coverage as it is thanks to Tinted Lens. Substitute grants Noctowl a shield from harmful status moves such as Thunder Wave and Toxic, but the usefulness of Noctowl's other moveslots makes this move hard to fit. Using Psycho Shift with Psychium Z lets Noctowl perform well as a stallbreaker, granting it +2 in Special Attack and swapping whatever harmful status condition is inflicted onto it with the target. However, having to forfeit Agility and a powerful nuke in Flyinium Z greatly hinders its matchup versus fast offensive teams, and as a stallbreaker, it faces competition with Pokemon such as Oricorio-G (wouldn't you err, forfeit work up? seems like the more logical option personally as you're not going to need another special attack boost. by doing this set however it basically only gets one chance to boost its special attack to break certain pokemon/teams). Lastly, while a Defensive Defog set sounds appealing with access to reliable recovery in Roost and good special bulk, Noctowl offers little as a defogger over Pokemon like Swanna, Articuno, and Altaria, and its extremely passive nature makes it susceptible to becoming setup fodder.

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

**Specially Defensive Walls**: Type: Null and Munchlax take pathetic amounts of damage from even a boosted Noctowl and threaten to use setup of their own to break through Noctowl. Clefairy can use Calm Mind to boost its special stats and beat Noctowl in a one-on-one situation, but does not appreciate taking boosted damage beforehand.

**Electric-types**: Togedemaru, Alolan Raichu, and Manectric hit Noctowl hard with their super-effective moves, and can use Noctowl switching out as an opportunity to pivot with Volt Switch or U-Turn. Togedemaru is the most notable example, as Choice Scarf variants can outspeed an Agility-boosted Noctowl and OHKO it with Zing Zap, and also quad resists Hurricane, meaning it can often switch in directly to Noctowl attacking (doesn't quad resist, you need to account for tinted lens. it does still resist though). Certain Electric-types like Eelektross and Lanturn possess high special bulk and can switch in on unboosted attacks. (choice scarf manectric can also outspeed when noctowl is at +2, something worth noting at least) (i'm unsure about mentioning eel right now. you're actually able to roost and easily take a hit. lanturn can stay however due to discharge almost certainly being used on the set over hidden power fire and hidden power grass)

**Rock-types**: Rock-types such as Regirock and Aggron are sturdy enough to take on a Noctowl with a used up Z-Crystal or a lack of boosts and threaten it with their respective Rock-type moves. Faster Rock-types like Kabutops can outspeed Noctowl without any Agility boosts, and Lycanroc can always hit first with Accelerock. These Pokemon can also take advantage of forcing Noctowl out by setting up Stealth Rock. (mention which pokemon set stealth rock. lycanroc has to have chip on noctowl before accelerock is able to revenge kill, and a significant amount at that (like not even stealth rock damage puts it in range of z lycan))

**Ice-types**: Pokemon like Jynx and Rotom-F can outspeed an unboosted Noctowl and hit it hard with their STAB moves, while Abomasnow threatens to hit Noctowl first with a priority Ice Shard. Choice Specs Aurorus can even OHKO Noctowl through its high Special Defense, though it must be careful about taking a boosted Supersonic Skystrike.

**Physical Attackers**: Pokemon like Kangaskhan, Kingler, and Zangoose have little issue punching though Noctowl's low Defense. (expand. kanga has double priority. all lose to it at +2 though, cept kanga if no z move)

**Faster Pokemon**: Noctowl depends on Agility to outspeed powerful threats like Kingler (remove kingler, mention alolan sandslash) and Primeape, and thus can be revenge killed very easily if it's unable to find time to boost its Speed. Particularly fast Choice Scarf users such as Togedemaru and Pyroar possess the ability to outpace Noctowl even after an Agility boost, the former always OHKOing with Zing Zap (the latter has to have significant chip on it or else roost can stall it out). Users of priority such as Lycanoc and Abomasnow can also hit Noctowl first, super effectively. (remove this last bit, both have already been mention in earlier sections)

**Stealth Rock**: While Noctowl can simply Roost off the damage taken from this entry hazard, requiring a turn to heal off damage can invite Pokemon like Togedemaru and Lycanroc to come in and threaten it out (mention other pokemon). In situations where it's difficult to heal in a pinch, Noctowl can't reliably use its good Special Defense to sponge attacks, as it's put into range for faster attackers like Manectric and Choice Scarf Abomasnow to OHKO it. (mention other pokemon)

**Status**: Users of Toxic like Oricorio-E and Clefairy (clefairy really doesn't use toxic, especially in this meta) can put Noctowl on a timer, severely reducing its time on the field. Being inflicted with Paralysis from Pokemon like Mesprit and Volbeat slows Noctowl down to a crawl, nullifying any Agility boosts it could've possibly accumulated.

Right. QC 3/3. Give it a solid look over before sending it to GP. Gjob.

 

[tondas]

in

 

[tondas]

removed kingler mentions

 

[Aaronboyer]

This is an Amateur GP Check, Only Implement What You Want
ADD REMOVE (COMMENTS)

AM GP Check

[OVERVIEW]

Noctowl sports an excellent ability in Tinted Lens, making it capable of breaking past Pokemon that would normally usually resist its moves such as Regirock and Lanturn, in tandem with Work Up and a high Base Power STAB move in Hurricane. Access to Agility lets Noctowl double as a late-game sweeper, being able to outspeed prominent threats such as Alolan Raichu and Choice Scarf Primeape after a boost. This, coupled with Work Up, allows Noctowl to match up well versus both offensive and defensive teams alike. Noctowl's respectable 100/96 special bulk also grants it valuable setup opportunities versus weaker special attackers such as Weezing and Defensive Mesprit. On the contrary, Noctowl's paltry base 50 physical defense can prove troublesome, as common powerful attackers such as Togedemaru and Alolan Sandslash can outspeed Noctowl if it does not have sufficient speed boosts and OHKO it. By extension, Modest Noctowl fails to outspeed faster Choice Scarf users of Choice Scarf such as Togedemaru and Manectric even after an Agility boost, both of which do serious severe damage to Noctowl. Even though Roost can somewhat remedy residual damage taken, a weakness to Stealth Rock means that Noctowl will often be forced to use Roost on a crucial turn, thus missing out on being able to set up or fire off an attack. Furthermore, Noctowl is reliant on the use of a Z-Move to apply offensive pressure, as even with Tinted Lens, its middling Special Attack and mediocre Speed mean that it needs to find opportunities to set up in order to become a sizeable threat. Even after an Agility boost, Finally, Noctowl faces stiff competition from other Flying- and Normal-type wallbreakers and sweepers such as Oricorio-G and Pyroar; the former can similarly break through balance and stall teams with its powerful dual STAB alongside access to a superior boosting move in Calm Mind, while the latter possesses a more significant speed tier and raw power.

name: Double Dance
move 1: Agility
move 2: Work Up
move 3: Hurricane
move 4: Roost
item: Flyinium Z
ability: Tinted Lens
nature: Modest
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Agility patches up Noctowl's below average Speed and lets it outpace an abundance of fast threats, including Jynx, Alolan Dugtrio, and every Choice Scarf user of Choice Scarf up to base 95's, which include Primeape and Jynx. Work Up is Noctowl's only method of boosting its Special Attack, giving it the functionality of a wallbreaker, capable of breaking through Pokemon like Eelektross and Regirock after a boost coupled with Flyinium Z. Hurricane is Noctowl's STAB move of choice, with its high Base Power and ability to deal neutral damage to most targets courtesy of Tinted Lens, while also securing a an OHKO on Pokemon like Gourgeist-XL, as well as Alolan Exeggutor after Stealth Rock damage. However, its low accuracy should be accounted for when using. Roost provides Noctowl with a form of reliable recovery, keeping it healthy or providing it an additional chance to sweep or wallbreak. This Roost also compensates for Noctowl's weakness to Stealth Rock,(RC) and can be used to sponge slower users of Volt Switch such as Lanturn.

Set Details
========

Maximum EVs in Special Attack and Speed allow Noctowl to hit as hard and quickly as possible, letting it become an offensive threat. A Modest nature is preferred so that Noctowl can function primarily as a wallbreaker, while still possessing the ability to outspeed threats such as Choice Scarf Primeape after an Agility boost. This also ensures a guaranteed OHKO on Assault Vest Hitmonchan and Skuntank without the need of setup. A Timid nature lets Noctowl naturally outspeed neutral base 80's like Mesprit and Shiftry, as well as Choice Scarf Togedemaru after an Agility boost, but this forfeits a considerable amount of Noctowl's attacking power. Tinted Lens is a crucial ability, as it lets Noctowl's moves hit resistant targets like Aurorus and Regirock neutrally. Flyinium Z gives Noctowl a one-time nuke that, alongside setup, is capable of demolishing specially bulky Pokemon such as Lanturn and Eelektross. Its perfect accuracy is also helpful in dire situations where Noctowl needs to land an attack. Sky Plate is a viable alternative if another teammate is using a Z-Crystal, giving Noctowl more consistent damage output. However, Noctowl sorely misses out on the power brought by using Flyinium Z, which includes OHKOing Pokemon like Eviolite Scyther and Oricorio-E after Stealth Rock damage, without the need of boosting Special Attack.

Usage Tips
========

Noctowl functions best versus balance and bulky offense teams, utilizing Work Up, Tinted Lens, and Hurricane to break through teams that rely on Pokemon like Regirock, Oricorio-E, and Lanturn to resist Flying-type attacks. Assess whether Agility or Work Up is more important to set up first. Against offensive teams, Agility gives Noctowl an edge over fast Pokemon that would otherwise threaten it like Alolan Sandslash and Jynx. Work Up bodes well versus bulkier teams, allowing Noctowl to punch through walls after a sufficient amount of uses. For instance, a Work Up boosted Supersonic Skystrike can OHKO Aurorus and Regirock after Stealth Rock damage, whereas an unboosted Supersonic Skystrike or a boosted Hurricane can OHKO Alolan Sandslash and Kabutops. Supersonic Skystrike can also be used if Noctowl finds itself in a situation where it can't afford to miss Hurricane, such as versus a Pokemon like Aggron, which threatens to decimate Noctowl in return. It's also useful for securing a an OHKO in the face of Pokemon like Carracosta and Omastar, where Noctowl can't afford to set up at all. In spite of great special bulk, Noctowl should not be used as a sponge to special attacks; instead, bring it in safely through moves like Volt Switch and Parting Shot by slow pivots like Lanturn and Silvally-Water. However, Noctowl can switch into weaker users of Knock Off such as Tangela and Sableye in order to preserve its teammate's items,(RC) and can threaten both examples with a Supersonic Skystrike. A weakness to Stealth Rock and susceptibility to residual damage is often a liability for Noctowl, so keeping it healthy increases its chances of being able to successfully set up versus weaker special attackers such as Bellossom and Defensive Mesprit. Use Roost to heal off damage versus Pokemon that can't do much harm to Noctowl, such as Weezing and Audino, though it must be wary of the occasional Toxic. Status,(AC) in general,(AC) is also something Noctowl should try to avoid, as Pokemon like Poliwrath and Mesprit can put it on a timer with Toxic or cut its Speed in half with Thunder Wave, respectively. Use advantageous matchups as setup time, as this is the key to Noctowl's success. Pokemon that are Choice-locked such as Haunter and Alolan Exeggutor can be taken advantage of, depending on what they're locked into. Some Pokemon that can't do much to Noctowl include Weezing, Defensive Mesprit lacking Thunder Wave, and Gourgeist-XL. Finally, Noctowl can 50/50 with other Pokemon like Hitmonchan and Abomasnow, which are naturally threatened out by Supersonic Skystrike.

Team Options
========

Wallbreakers such as Alolan Exeggutor and Aggron can weaken defensive Pokemon like Audino and Clefairy, paving the way for Noctowl to sweep using Agility. Similarly, late-game cleaners such as Jynx, Carracosta, and Primeape appreciate Noctowl's ability to weaken bulky Pokemon such as Weezing, Poliwrath, and Gurdurr. Blanket checks to physical attackers such as Regirock, Defensive Carracosta, and Gurdurr can all take powerful physical hits for Noctowl, while it can check Grass-types like Bellossom and Lurantis in return. Weezing,(AC) in particular,(AC) makes for an excellent partner, as it can also utilize Toxic Spikes to wear down Noctowl's checks such as Lanturn and Regirock. Noctowl thrives on getting free switch-ins in order to start setting up, so slow pivoting Pokemon pivots like Probopass and Eelektross can help get it Noctowl in safely. Inversely, Silvally-Dragon operates well as a fast pivot thanks to Parting Shot lowering the foe's offensive stats, giving Noctowl an easier shot at setting up, and its ability to unleash a powerful Draco Meteor and target Steel-types like Togedemaru with Flamethrower can secure a potential sweep for Noctowl. Entry hazard removers such as Hitmonchan and Skuntank are important essential, as Noctowl is weak to Stealth Rock and they greatly significantly hinder its ability to safely set up safely. Hitmonchan works as an offensive check to Pokemon like Togedemaru and Aggron,(RC) while appreciating Noctowl's ability to break threats such as Weezing, whereas Skuntank can soften Specially bulky walls with Acid Spray. Skuntank also enjoys Noctowl being able to switch into Ground-type attacks. Noctowl also appreciates support from entry hazards from Pokemon like Mesprit and Qwilfish in order to weaken switch-ins, making Noctowl a more threatening wallbreaker. A notable feat that Noctowl is able to can pull off with the aid of Stealth Rock is the capability of OHKOing Regirock with a boosted Supersonic Skystrike. Qwilfish can weaken physical attackers with Intimidate and soften targets with Explosion, while Mesprit offers Healing Wish to provide emergency support for Noctowl. Clefairy also appreciates Noctowl being able to power through Steel-types like Aggron and Mawile with Supersonic Skystrike, and absorb Knock Off from weaker users of the move like Audino.

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

A Choice Specs set gives Noctowl more immediate power without the need to set up, turning it into a dedicated wallbreaker; this set is most notably capable of 2HKOing Regirock without the need of setup. However, this set faces heavy competition from other Choice Specs users of Choice Specs such as Drampa and Pyroar, which offer better wallbreaking capabilities overall due to their sheer power and high speed, respectively. Air Slash is a more accurate STAB move, but the severe drop in power from Hurricane is noticeable, and thus limits its wallbreaking power. For instance, Noctowl would require the use of Work Up three times to even guarantee that a Supersonic Skystrike off of Air Slash can OHKO Regirock. Hidden Power Fighting can be used to hit Pokemon like Aggron and Probopass especially hard, and can even OHKO the former without any boosts, but otherwise serve little purpose, and is generally hard to fit onto moveslots. Moreover, Hurricane usually offers sufficient coverage as it is thanks to Tinted Lens. Substitute grants Noctowl a shield from harmful status moves such as Thunder Wave and Toxic, but the usefulness of Noctowl's other moveslots makes this move hard to fit. Using Psycho Shift with Psychium Z lets Noctowl perform well as a stallbreaker, granting it +2 in Special Attack and swapping whatever harmful status condition is inflicted onto it with the target. However, having to forfeit Work Up and a powerful nuke in Flyinium Z makes this set a one-trick pony, as Noctowl won't be able to set up a second time. On the other hand, sacrificing Agility greatly worsens Noctowl's matchup considerably against offensive teams. Furthermore, as a dedicated stallbreaker, Noctowl faces competition from Pokemon such as Oricorio-G. Finally, while a Defensive Defog set sounds appealing with access to reliable recovery in Roost and good special bulk, Noctowl offers little as a defogger over Pokemon like Swanna, Articuno, and Altaria, and its extremely passive nature makes it susceptible to becoming setup fodder.

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

**Specially Defensive Walls**: Type: Null and Munchlax take pathetic amounts of damage from even a boosted Noctowl and threaten to use setup of their own to break through Noctowl. Clefairy can use Calm Mind to boost increase its special stats and beat Noctowl in a one-on-one situation,(RC) but does not appreciate taking boosted damage beforehand.

**Electric-types**: Togedemaru, Alolan Raichu, and Manectric hit Noctowl hard with their super-effective moves, and can use Noctowl switching out as an opportunity to pivot with Volt Switch or U-Turn. Togedemaru is the most notable example, as Choice Scarf variants can outspeed an Agility-boosted Noctowl and OHKO it with Zing Zap, and also resists Hurricane, meaning it can often switch in directly to Noctowl attacking. Certain Electric-types like Eelektross and Lanturn possess high special bulk and can pivot into unboosted attacks, and Lanturn can fish for a Paralysis with Discharge.

**Rock-types**: Rock-types such as Regirock and Aggron are sturdy enough to take on a Noctowl with a used up Z-Crystal or a lack of boosts and threaten it with their respective Rock-type moves. Faster Rock-types like Kabutops can outspeed Noctowl without any Agility boosts, and Lycanroc can always hit first with Accelerock, revenge killing Noctowl if it's sufficiently weakened. The likes of Regirock and Golem can take advantage of Noctowl switching out by setting up Stealth Rock.

**Ice-types**: Pokemon like Jynx and Rotom-F can outspeed an unboosted Noctowl and hit it hard with their STAB moves, while Abomasnow threatens to hit Noctowl first with a priority Ice Shard. Choice Specs Aurorus can even OHKO Noctowl through its high Special Defense, though it must be careful about taking a boosted Supersonic Skystrike.

**Physical Attackers**: Pokemon like Kangaskhan, Stoutland, and Choice Band Skuntank have little issue outspeeding an unboosted Nocowl and punching though through its low Defense, with the former two having a solid chance of surviving an unboosted Supersonic Skystrike if at full health. Kangaskan also possesses two solid priority moves, threatening to hit Noctowl first.

**Faster Pokemon**: Noctowl depends on Agility to outspeed powerful threats like Primeape and Alolan Sandslash,(RC) and can be revenge-killed(AH) very easily if it's unable to find time to boost its Speed. Particularly fast Choice Scarf users such as Togedemaru and Manectric possess the ability to outpace Noctowl even after an Agility boost, the former always OHKOing with Zing Zap.

**Stealth Rock**: While Noctowl can simply Roost off the damage taken from this entry hazard, requiring a turn to heal off damage can invite Pokemon like Stoutland and Alolan Sandslash to come in and threaten it out. In situations where it's difficult to heal in a pinch, Noctowl can't reliably use its good above average Special Defense to sponge attacks, as Stealth Rock damage puts it into range for faster attackers like Primeape and Jynx to outspeed an unboosted Noctowl and KO it.

**Status**: Users of Toxic like Oricorio-E and Alolan Persian can put Noctowl on a timer, severely reducing its time on the field. Being afflicted with Paralysis from Pokemon like Mesprit and Volbeat slows Noctowl down to a crawl, nullifying any Agility boosts it could've possibly accumulated.

 

[tondas]

did this as well

 

[CryoGyro]

GP 1/2
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[OVERVIEW]

Noctowl sports an excellent ability in Tinted Lens, Work Up, and a powerful STAB move in Hurricane, making it capable of breaking past Pokemon that would usually resist its moves check other Flying-types such as Regirock and Lanturn, in tandem with Work Up and a high Base Power STAB move in Hurricane. Access to Agility lets Noctowl double as a late-game sweeper, (comma) by being able to outspeed prominent threats such as Alolan Raichu and Choice Scarf Primeape after a boost. This, coupled with Work Up, allows Noctowl to match up well versus both offensive and defensive teams alike. Noctowl's respectable 100/96 special bulk also grants it valuable setup opportunities versus weaker special attackers such as Weezing and defensive Mesprit. On the contrary However, Noctowl's paltry base 50 physical defense Defense can prove troublesome, as common powerful attackers such as Togedemaru and Alolan Sandslash can outspeed Noctowl if it does not have sufficient speed boosts and OHKO it. By extension, +2 Modest Noctowl fails to outspeed faster particularly fast and threatening Choice Scarf users such as Togedemaru and Manectric even after an Agility boost, both of which do serious damage to Noctowl. Even though Roost can somewhat remedy residual damage taken, a weakness to Stealth Rock means that Noctowl will often be forced to use Roost on a crucial turn, thus missing out on being able and miss out on chances to set up or fire off an attack. Furthermore, Noctowl is reliant on the use of setting up and having a Z-Move to apply offensive pressure, as even with Tinted Lens, its middling Special Attack and mediocre Speed mean that it needs to find opportunities to set up to become otherwise keep it from being a sizeable threat. Even after an Agility boost, Finally, Noctowl faces stiff competition from other Flying- and Normal-type wallbreakers and sweepers such as Oricorio-G and Drampa; the former can similarly break through balance and stall teams with its powerful dual STAB combination alongside access to a superior boosting move in Calm Mind, while the latter possesses far more raw power.

name: Double Dance
move 1: Agility
move 2: Work Up
move 3: Hurricane
move 4: Roost
item: Flyinium Z
ability: Tinted Lens
nature: Modest
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Agility patches up Noctowl's below average Speed and lets it outpace an abundance of fast threats, including Froslass, Alolan Dugtrio, and every Choice Scarf user of up to base 95's 95 Speed, which include Primeape and Jynx. Work Up is Noctowl's only method of boosting its Special Attack, giving it the functionality of a wallbreaker, capable of breaking means to break through Pokemon like Eelektross and Regirock after a boost coupled with Flyinium Z. Hurricane is Noctowl's STAB move of choice, (comma) with despite low accuracy because of its high Base Power and ability to deal neutral damage to most targets courtesy of Tinted Lens, (comma) while also securing an OHKO on Pokemon like Gourgeist-XL, as well as Alolan Exeggutor after Stealth Rock damage OHKOing Alolan Exeggutor after Stealth Rock and Gourgeist-XL always. However, its low accuracy should be accounted for when using. Roost provides Noctowl with a form of reliable recovery, keeping it healthy or providing it an keeps Noctowl healthy and provides additional chances to sweep or wallbreak. Roost also compensates for Noctowl's weakness to Stealth Rock and can be used to sponge slower users of Volt Switch from slow users such as Lanturn.

Set Details
========

Maximum EVs in Special Attack and Speed allow Noctowl to hit as hard and quickly as possible, letting it become an offensive threat. A Modest nature is preferred so that Noctowl can function primarily as a wallbreaker, (comma) and OHKO Assault Vest Hitmonchan and Skuntank unboosted; it's still faster than threats such as Choice Scarf Primeape after Agility. while still possessing the ability to outspeed threats such as Choice Scarf Primeape after an Agility boost. This also ensures a guaranteed OHKO on Assault Vest Hitmonchan and Skuntank without the need of setup. A Timid nature lets Noctowl naturally outspeed neutral base 80's neutral-natured base 80 Speed Pokemon like Mesprit and Shiftry, (comma) as well as Choice Scarf Togedemaru after an Agility boost, but this forfeits a considerable amount of Noctowl's attacking power. Tinted Lens is a crucial ability, as it lets Noctowl's moves hit resistant targets like Hurricane hit the likes of Aurorus and Regirock neutrally. Flyinium Z gives Noctowl a one-time nuke that, alongside setup, is capable of demolishing specially bulky Pokemon such as like Lanturn and Eelektross. Its perfect accuracy is also helpful in dire situations where Noctowl needs to land an attack. Sky Plate is a viable alternative if another teammate is using a Z-Crystal, giving Noctowl more consistent damage output. However, Noctowl sorely misses out on the power brought by using Flyinium Z, which includes OHKOing Pokemon like Eviolite Scyther and Oricorio-E after Stealth Rock damage, without the need of boosting Special Attack without a boost.

Usage Tips
========

Noctowl functions best versus balance and bulky offense teams, utilizing Work Up, Tinted Lens, and Hurricane to break through balance and bulky offense teams that rely on Pokemon like Regirock, Oricorio-E, and Lanturn to resist take Flying-type attacks. Assess whether Agility or Work Up is more important to set up first. Against offensive teams, Agility gives Noctowl an edge over fast Pokemon that would otherwise threaten it like Alolan Sandslash and Jynx. Work Up bodes well versus bulkier teams, allowing Noctowl to punch through walls after a sufficient amount of uses. For instance, a Work Up boosted +1 Supersonic Skystrike can OHKO Aurorus and Regirock after Stealth Rock damage, whereas an unboosted Supersonic Skystrike or a boosted Hurricane can OHKO Alolan Sandslash and Kabutops. Supersonic Skystrike can also be used if Noctowl finds itself in a situation where it can't afford to miss Hurricane, such as versus when against a Pokemon like Aggron, which threatens to decimate Noctowl in return. It's also useful for securing an OHKO in the face of on Pokemon like Carracosta and Omastar, where Noctowl can't afford to set up at all. In spite of great special bulk, Noctowl should not be used as a sponge to special attacks; instead, bring it in safely through pivot moves like Volt Switch and Parting Shot by slow pivots like Lanturn and Silvally-Water. However, Noctowl can switch into weaker users of Knock Off such as Tangela and Sableye to preserve its teammate's teammates' items and can threaten both examples with a Supersonic Skystrike. A weakness to Stealth Rock and susceptibility to residual damage is often a liability for Noctowl, so keeping it healthy increases its chances of being able to successfully set up versus weaker special attackers such as Bellossom and defensive Mesprit. Use Roost to heal off damage versus when against Pokemon that can't do much harm to Noctowl, such as Weezing and Audino, though it must but be wary of the occasional Toxic. Status in general from users like Toxic Poliwrath and Thunder Wave Mesprit is also something Noctowl should try to avoid in general, as Pokemon like Poliwrath and Mesprit can put it on a timer with Toxic or cut its Speed in half with Thunder Wave, respectively. Use advantageous matchups as setup time, as this is the key to Noctowl's success. Pokemon that are Choice-locked such as Haunter and Alolan Exeggutor can be taken advantage of, depending on what they're locked into. Some Pokemon that can't do much to Noctowl include Weezing, defensive Mesprit lacking Thunder Wave, and Gourgeist-XL. Finally, Noctowl can 50/50 with other Pokemon like Hitmonchan and Abomasnow, which are naturally threatened out by Supersonic Skystrike.

Team Options
========

Wallbreakers such as Alolan Exeggutor and Aggron can weaken defensive Pokemon like Audino and Clefairy, paving the way for Noctowl to sweep using Agility. Similarly, late-game cleaners such as Jynx, Carracosta, and Primeape appreciate Noctowl's ability to weaken bulky Pokemon such as Weezing, Poliwrath, and Gurdurr. Blanket checks to physical attackers such as Regirock, defensive Carracosta, and Gurdurr can all take powerful physical hits for Noctowl, while it can check Grass-types like Bellossom and Lurantis in return. Weezing in particular makes for an excellent partner, as it can also utilize Toxic Spikes to wear down Noctowl's checks such as Lanturn and Regirock. Noctowl thrives on getting free switch-ins switches to start setting up, so slow pivots like Probopass and Eelektross can help get Noctowl in safely. Conversely, Silvally-Dragon operates well as a fast pivot thanks to Parting Shot lowering the foe's offensive stats, giving Noctowl an easier shot at setting up. Silvally-Dragon's ability to unleash a powerful Draco Meteor and target Steel-types like Togedemaru with Flamethrower can help secure a potential sweep for Noctowl. Entry hazard removers such as Hitmonchan and Skuntank are essential, as Noctowl is weak to Stealth Rock and they significantly hinder its ability to set up safely. Hitmonchan also works as an offensive check to Pokemon like Togedemaru and Aggron while appreciating Noctowl's ability to break threats such as Weezing, whereas specially offensive Skuntank can soften special walls with Acid Spray. Skuntank also enjoys Noctowl being able to switch into Ground-type attacks. Noctowl also appreciates support from entry hazards from Pokemon like Mesprit and Qwilfish to weaken switch-ins, making Noctowl a more threatening wallbreaker weakening switch-ins. A notable feat that Noctowl can to pull off with the aid of Stealth Rock is the capability of OHKOing Regirock with a boosted +1 Supersonic Skystrike. Qwilfish can weaken physical attackers with Intimidate and soften targets with Explosion, while Mesprit offers Healing Wish to provide emergency support for Noctowl. Clefairy also appreciates Noctowl being able to power through Steel-types like Aggron and Mawile with Supersonic Skystrike, (comma) and absorb Knock Off from weaker users of the move like Audino.

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

A Choice Specs set gives Noctowl more immediate power without the need to set up, turning it into a dedicated wallbreaker; this set is most notably capable of 2HKOing Regirock without the need of setup. However, this set faces heavy competition from other Choice Specs users of such as Drampa, which offers better wallbreaking capabilities overall due to its sheer power. Air Slash is a more accurate STAB move, but the severe drop in power from Hurricane is noticeable, and thus limits its wallbreaking power. For instance, Noctowl would require the use of Work Up three times to even guarantee that a Supersonic Skystrike off of based on Air Slash can OHKO Regirock. Hidden Power Fighting can be used to hit Pokemon like Aggron and Probopass especially hard, and can even OHKO the former without any boosts, but otherwise serve little purpose, (comma) and is generally hard to fit onto moveslots. Moreover, Hurricane usually offers sufficient coverage as it is thanks to Tinted Lens. Substitute grants Noctowl a shield from harmful status moves such as Thunder Wave and Toxic, but the usefulness of Noctowl's other moveslots moves makes this move it hard to fit. Using Psycho Shift with Psychium Z lets Noctowl perform well as a stallbreaker, granting it +2 in Special Attack and swapping whatever harmful status condition is inflicted onto it with the target. However, having to forfeit Work Up and a powerful nuke in Flyinium Z makes this set a one-trick pony, as Noctowl won't be able to set up a second time. On the other hand, sacrificing Agility worsens Noctowl's matchup considerably against offensive teams. Furthermore, as a dedicated stallbreaker, Noctowl faces competition from Pokemon such as Oricorio-G. Finally, while a defensive Defog set sounds appealing with access to reliable recovery in Roost and good special bulk, Noctowl offers little as a Defogger over Pokemon like Swanna, Articuno, and Altaria, and its extremely passive nature makes it susceptible to becoming easy setup fodder.

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

**Specially Defensive Walls**: Type: Null and Munchlax take pathetic amounts of damage from even a boosted Noctowl and threaten to can use setup of their own to break through Noctowl. Clefairy can use Calm Mind to increase its special stats and beat Noctowl in a one-on-one situation but does not appreciate taking boosted damage beforehand.

**Electric-types**: Togedemaru, Alolan Raichu, and Manectric hit Noctowl hard with their super-effective moves, and can use Noctowl switching and can use forcing Noctowl out as an opportunity to pivot with Volt Switch or U-turn. Togedemaru is the most notable example, as Choice Scarf variants can switch into Hurricane, outspeed an Agility-boosted Noctowl, (comma) and OHKO it with Zing Zap, and also resists Hurricane, meaning it can often switch in directly to Noctowl attacking. Certain Electric-types like Eelektross and Lanturn possess high special bulk and can pivot into unboosted attacks, and Lanturn can fish for a paralysis with Discharge.

**Rock-types**: Rock-types such as Regirock and Aggron are sturdy enough to take on a Noctowl with a used up Z-Crystal or a lack of boosts without a Z-Move or boosts and threaten it with their respective Rock-type moves. Faster Rock-types like Kabutops can outspeed Noctowl without any Agility boosts, and Lycanroc can always hit first with Accelerock, revenge killing Noctowl if it's sufficiently weakened. The likes of Regirock and Golem can take advantage of Noctowl switching out by setting up Stealth Rock.

**Ice-types**: Pokemon like Jynx and Rotom-F can outspeed an unboosted Noctowl and hit it hard with their STAB moves, while Abomasnow threatens to hit Noctowl first with a priority Ice Shard. Choice Specs Aurorus can even OHKO Noctowl through despite its high Special Defense, though it must be careful about taking a boosted Supersonic Skystrike.

**Physical Attackers**: Pokemon like Kangaskhan, Stoutland, and Choice Band Skuntank have little issue outspeeding an unboosted Nocowl and punching through exploiting its low Defense, with the former two also having a solid chance of surviving an unboosted Supersonic Skystrike if at full health. Kangaskan also possesses two solid priority moves, threatening to hit Noctowl first.

**Faster Pokemon**: Noctowl depends on Agility to outspeed powerful threats like Primeape and Alolan Sandslash and can be revenge-(hyph)killed very easily if it's unable to find time to boost its Speed otherwise. Particularly fast Choice Scarf users such as Togedemaru and Manectric possess the ability to outpace Noctowl even after an Agility boost, the former always OHKOing with Zing Zap.

**Stealth Rock**: While Noctowl can Roost off the damage taken from this entry hazard, requiring heal damage dealt by Stealth Rock, taking a turn to heal off damage do so can invite Pokemon like Stoutland and Alolan Sandslash to come in and threaten it out. In situations where it's difficult to heal in a pinch, Noctowl can't reliably use its above average Special Defense to sponge attacks, as Stealth Rock damage puts it into range for faster attackers like Primeape and Jynx to outspeed an unboosted Noctowl and KO it Noctowl can't heal, Stealth Rock damage will let faster attackers like Primeape and Jynx KO it.

**Status**: Users of Toxic like Oricorio-E and Alolan Persian can put Noctowl on a timer, severely reducing its time on the field. Being afflicted with paralysis from Pokemon like Mesprit and Volbeat slows Noctowl down to a crawl, nullifying any Agility boosts it could've possibly accumulated nullifies any use Agility could have had.

 

[tondas]

implemented, ready for 2

 

[Lumari]

remove add / fix (comments); (AC=add comma; RC=remove comma; SC=semicolon)
GP 2/2

check

[OVERVIEW]

Noctowl sports Tinted Lens, Work Up, and a powerful STAB move in Hurricane, making it capable of breaking past Pokemon that check other Flying-types such as Regirock and Lanturn. Access to Agility lets Noctowl double as a late-game sweeper by being able to outspeed prominent threats such as Alolan Raichu and Choice Scarf Primeape after a boost. This, coupled with Work Up, The combination of these traits allows Noctowl to match up well versus offensive and defensive teams alike. Noctowl's respectable special bulk also grants it valuable setup opportunities versus weaker special attackers such as Weezing and defensive Mesprit. However, Noctowl's paltry base 50 Defense can prove troublesome, as common powerful attackers such as Togedemaru and Alolan Sandslash can outspeed Noctowl and OHKO it. By extension, +2 Modest Noctowl fails to outspeed particularly fast and threatening Choice Scarf users such as Togedemaru and Manectric. Even though Roost can somewhat remedy residual damage taken, a weakness to Stealth Rock means that Noctowl will often be forced to use Roost and miss out on chances to set up or fire off an attack. Furthermore, Noctowl is reliant on setting up and having a Z-Move to apply offensive pressure, as its middling Special Attack and mediocre Speed otherwise keep it from being a sizeable threat. Finally, Noctowl faces stiff competition from other Flying- and Normal-type wallbreakers and sweepers such as Oricorio-G and Drampa; the former can similarly break through balance and stall teams with its powerful STAB combination alongside access to a superior boosting move in Calm Mind, while the latter possesses far more raw power.

[SET]
name: Double Dance
move 1: Agility
move 2: Work Up
move 3: Hurricane
move 4: Roost
item: Flyinium Z
ability: Tinted Lens
nature: Modest
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Agility patches up Noctowl's below average Speed and lets it outpace an abundance of fast threats, including Froslass, Alolan Dugtrio, and every Choice Scarf user up to base 95 Speed, which include Primeape and Jynx. Work Up is Noctowl's only method of boosting its Special Attack, giving it the means to break through Pokemon like Eelektross and Regirock with Flyinium Z. Hurricane is Noctowl's STAB move of choice despite its low accuracy because of its high Base Power and ability to deal neutral damage to most targets courtesy of Tinted Lens while also OHKOing Alolan Exeggutor after Stealth Rock and Gourgeist-XL always. Roost keeps Noctowl healthy and provides additional chances to sweep or wallbreak. Roost also compensates for Noctowl's weakness to Stealth Rock and can be used to sponge Volt Switch from slow users such as Lanturn.

Set Details
========

Maximum EVs in Special Attack and Speed allow Noctowl to hit as hard and quickly as possible. A Modest nature is preferred so that Noctowl can function primarily as a wallbreaker and OHKO Assault Vest Hitmonchan and Skuntank unboosted; it's still faster than threats such as Choice Scarf Primeape after Agility. A Timid nature lets Noctowl naturally outspeed neutral-natured base 80 Speed Pokemon like Mesprit and Shiftry as well as Choice Scarf Togedemaru after Agility, but this forfeits a considerable amount of Noctowl's attacking power. Tinted Lens is a crucial ability, as it lets Hurricane hit the likes of Aurorus and Regirock neutrally. Flyinium Z gives Noctowl a one-time nuke that, alongside setup, is capable of demolishing specially bulky Pokemon like Lanturn and Eelektross. Its perfect accuracy is also helpful in dire situations where Noctowl needs to land an attack. Sky Plate is a viable alternative if another teammate is using a Z-Crystal, giving Noctowl more consistent damage output. However, Noctowl sorely misses out on the power brought by using Flyinium Z, which includes OHKOing Pokemon like Eviolite Scyther and Oricorio-E after Stealth Rock without a boost.

Usage Tips
========

Noctowl functions best utilizing Work Up, Tinted Lens, and Hurricane to break through balance and bulky offense teams that rely on Pokemon like Regirock, Oricorio-E, and Lanturn to take Flying-type attacks. Assess whether Agility or Work Up is more important to set up first. Against offensive teams, Agility gives Noctowl an edge over fast Pokemon that would otherwise threaten it like Alolan Sandslash and Jynx. Work Up bodes functions well versus bulkier teams, allowing Noctowl to punch through walls after a sufficient amount number of uses. For instance, +1 Supersonic Skystrike can OHKO Aurorus and Regirock after Stealth Rock damage, whereas an unboosted Supersonic Skystrike or a boosted Hurricane can OHKO Alolan Sandslash and Kabutops. Supersonic Skystrike can also be used if Noctowl can't afford to miss Hurricane, such as when against a Pokemon like Aggron, which threatens to decimate Noctowl in return. It's also useful for securing an OHKO on Pokemon like Carracosta and Omastar, where Noctowl can't afford to set up at all. In spite of great special bulk, Noctowl should not be used as a sponge to special attacks; instead, bring it in safely through pivoting moves like Volt Switch and Parting Shot. However, Noctowl can switch into weaker users of Knock Off such as Tangela and Sableye to preserve its teammates' items and threaten both examples with Supersonic Skystrike. A weakness to Stealth Rock and susceptibility to residual damage is often a liability for Noctowl, so keeping it healthy increases its chances of being able to successfully set up versus weaker special attackers such as Bellossom and defensive Mesprit. Use Roost to heal when against Pokemon that can't do much harm to Noctowl, such as Weezing and Audino, but be wary of the occasional Toxic. Status from users like Toxic Poliwrath and Thunder Wave Mesprit is something Noctowl should try to avoid in general. Use advantageous matchups as setup time, as this is the key to Noctowl's success. Pokemon that are Choice-locked Choice item users such as Haunter and Alolan Exeggutor can be taken advantage of, depending on what they're locked into. Some Pokemon that can't do much to Noctowl include Weezing, defensive Mesprit lacking Thunder Wave, and Gourgeist-XL. Finally, Noctowl can 50/50 engage in mind games with other Pokemon like Hitmonchan and Abomasnow, which are naturally threatened out by Supersonic Skystrike.

Team Options
========

Wallbreakers such as Alolan Exeggutor and Aggron can weaken defensive Pokemon like Audino and Clefairy, paving the way for Noctowl to sweep using Agility. Similarly, late-game cleaners such as Jynx, Carracosta, and Primeape appreciate Noctowl's ability to weaken bulky Pokemon such as Weezing, Poliwrath, and Gurdurr. Blanket checks to physical attackers such as Regirock, defensive Carracosta, and Gurdurr take powerful physical hits for Noctowl, while it can check Grass-types like Bellossom and Lurantis in return. Weezing in particular can also utilize Toxic Spikes to wear down Noctowl's checks such as Lanturn and Regirock. Noctowl thrives on getting free switches to start setting up, so slow pivots like Probopass and Eelektross can help. Conversely, Silvally-Dragon operates well as a fast pivot thanks to Parting Shot lowering the foe's offensive stats, giving Noctowl an easier shot at setting up. Silvally-Dragon's ability to unleash a powerful Draco Meteor and target Steel-types like Togedemaru with Flamethrower can help secure a potential sweep for Noctowl. Entry hazard removers such as Hitmonchan and Skuntank are essential, as Noctowl is weak to Stealth Rock. Hitmonchan also works as an offensive check to Pokemon like Togedemaru and Aggron while appreciating Noctowl's ability to break threats such as Weezing, whereas specially offensive Skuntank can soften special walls with Acid Spray. Skuntank also enjoys Noctowl being able to switch into Ground-type attacks. Noctowl appreciates entry hazards from Pokemon like Mesprit and Qwilfish weakening switch-ins. A notable feat that Noctowl can pull off with Stealth Rock is OHKOing Regirock with +1 Supersonic Skystrike. Qwilfish can weaken physical attackers with Intimidate and soften targets with Explosion, while Mesprit offers Healing Wish to provide emergency support for Noctowl. Clefairy also appreciates Noctowl being able to power through Steel-types like Aggron and Mawile with Supersonic Skystrike and absorb Knock Off from weaker users like Audino.

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

A Choice Specs set gives Noctowl more immediate power without the need to set up, turning it into a dedicated wallbreaker; this set is most notably capable of 2HKOing Regirock. However, this set faces heavy competition from other Choice Specs users such as Drampa, which offers better wallbreaking capabilities overall due to its sheer power. Air Slash is a more accurate STAB move, but the severe drop in power from Hurricane limits its wallbreaking power. For instance, Noctowl would require the use of Work Up three times to even guarantee that a Supersonic Skystrike based on Air Slash can OHKO Regirock. Hidden Power Fighting can be used to hit Pokemon like Aggron and Probopass especially hard, and can even OHKOing the former without any boosts, but otherwise serve it serves little purpose and is generally hard to fit onto moveslots. Substitute grants Noctowl a shield from harmful status moves such as Thunder Wave and Toxic, but the usefulness of Noctowl's other moves makes it hard to fit. Using Psycho Shift with Psychium Z lets Noctowl perform well as a stallbreaker, granting it +2 in Special Attack and swapping whatever harmful status condition is inflicted onto it with the target. However, having to forfeit Work Up and a powerful nuke in Flyinium Z makes this set a one-trick pony, as Noctowl won't be able to set up a second time. On the other hand, sacrificing Agility worsens Noctowl's matchup considerably against offensive teams. Furthermore, as a dedicated stallbreaker, Noctowl faces competition from Pokemon such as Oricorio-G. Finally, while a defensive Defog set sounds appealing with access to Roost and good special bulk, Noctowl offers little as a Defogger over Pokemon like Swanna, Articuno, and Altaria, and its extremely passive nature makes it easy setup fodder.

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

**Specially Defensive Walls**: Type: Null and Munchlax take pathetic amounts of damage from even a boosted Noctowl and can use setup of their own to break through Noctowl. Clefairy can use Calm Mind to beat Noctowl in a one-on-one situation but does not appreciate taking boosted damage beforehand.

**Electric-types**: Togedemaru, Alolan Raichu, and Manectric hit Noctowl hard and can use forcing Noctowl force it out as to secure an opportunity to pivot with Volt Switch or U-turn. Togedemaru is the most notable example, as Choice Scarf variants can switch into Hurricane, outspeed Agility-boosted Noctowl, (comma) and OHKO it with Zing Zap. Certain Electric-types like Eelektross and Lanturn possess high special bulk and can pivot into unboosted attacks, and Lanturn can fish for paralysis with Discharge.

**Rock-types**: Rock-types such as Regirock and Aggron are sturdy enough to take on a Noctowl without a Z-Move or boosts and threaten it with their respective Rock-type moves. Faster Rock-types like Kabutops can outspeed Noctowl without any Agility boosts, and Lycanroc can always hit first with Accelerock, revenge killing Noctowl if it's sufficiently weakened. The likes of Regirock and Golem can take advantage of Noctowl switching out by setting up Stealth Rock.

**Ice-types**: Pokemon like Jynx and Rotom-F can outspeed an unboosted Noctowl and hit it hard with their STAB moves, while Abomasnow threatens to hit Noctowl first with Ice Shard. Choice Specs Aurorus can even OHKO Noctowl despite its high Special Defense, though it must be careful about taking a boosted Supersonic Skystrike.

**Physical Attackers**: Pokemon like Kangaskhan, Stoutland, and Choice Band Skuntank have little issue outspeeding an unboosted Nocowl Noctowl and exploiting its low Defense, with the former two also having a solid chance of surviving an unboosted Supersonic Skystrike if at full health. Kangaskan also possesses two solid priority moves, threatening to hit Noctowl first.

**Faster Pokemon**: Noctowl depends on Agility to outspeed powerful threats like Primeape and Alolan Sandslash and can be revenge killed very easily otherwise. Particularly fast Choice Scarf users such as Togedemaru and Manectric outpace Noctowl even after an Agility boost, the former always OHKOing with Zing Zap.

**Stealth Rock**: While Noctowl can heal damage dealt by Stealth Rock, taking a turn to do so can invite Pokemon like Stoutland and Alolan Sandslash to come in and threaten it out. In situations where Noctowl can't heal, Stealth Rock damage will let faster attackers like Primeape and Jynx KO it.

**Status**: Users of Toxic like Oricorio-E and Alolan Persian can put Noctowl on a timer, severely reducing its time on the field. Being afflicted with paralysis from Pokemon like Mesprit and Volbeat nullifies any use Agility could have had.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[tondas, 442732]]
- Quality checked by: [[jklioe, 424692], [TONE, 213583], [yogi, 252106]]
- Grammar checked by: [[CryoGyro, 331519], [<username2>, <username2>]]

 

[tondas]

This is now finished, thank you folks.