Pikachu [4F]*

Erazor

✓ Just Doug It
is a Smogon Media Contributor Alumnus
Using Pikachu was quite a fun experience, as was writing this analysis. The rat needs more love.

---------------------------------------------------------

STATUS: Complete, ready to be uploaded I guess

http://www.smogon.com/dp/pokemon/pikachu

[SET]
name: Encore
move 1: Encore
move 2: Substitute
move 3: Thunderbolt
move 4: Hidden Power Ice / Grass Knot
item: Light Ball
ability: Static
nature: Timid
evs: 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>Pikachu may seem useless at first glance, with big brother Raichu outclassing it in every single stat. However, due to its unique hold item, Light Ball, both its offensive stats are doubled, making the Pokemon mascot a force to be reckoned with.</p>

<p>This set is one of Pikachu's best options to set up a sweep, either for itself or a teammate. The idea is to Encore a harmless move, such as a Clefable's Softboiled, and set up a Substitute. Then you can pound the opponent with either a STAB Thunderbolt or Hidden Power Ice. </p>

<p>Substitute is a must on all of Pikachu's sets. The protection it offers from revenge killing is often the difference between life and death for the little yellow rodent. Thunderbolt provides you with a strong STAB attack and can severely dent most Pokemon not resistant or immune to it. Hidden Power Ice provides the best neutral coverage alongside Thunderbolt and hits Grass- and Ground-types super-effectively. Alternatively, Grass Knot can be used to get the guaranteed 2HKO on max HP / 136 SpD Steelix and most Regirock (outside of a sandstorm), assuming Stealth Rock is in play.</p>

<p>Pikachu can be very annoying for your opponent, but getting it in is quite hard, given its pathetic defenses. It therefore takes some prediction to switch it in. A less risky way is to utilize the moves U-turn and Baton Pass to get Pikachu in. Once Pikachu is in, let the fun begin!</p>

<p>Pikachu appreciates entry hazards support, especially Spikes, since Encore causes switches and most of its counters are grounded. If you Encore a move like Earthquake or Earth Power(from behind the Substitute), you can give another teammate a free switch in. For example, Honchkrow gets a free switch-in on Encored Ground-typed attacks and can Pursuit the opponent as it switches out. Its Pursuit also easily weakens Chansey and Clefable to the point where they will be too weak to face Pikachu again. This strategy is even more effective in OU, since the common Earthquake users are faster than Pikachu, ensuring that Earthquake is encored. This works not only with Earthquake, but quite a few moves depending on your set-up sweeper.</p>

<p>Sweepers like Calm Mind Mismagius, SubCharge Rotom, or Swords Dance Scyther will love the free turns that Encore provides. In fact, any set-up sweeper loves free turns, so they make excellent teammates for Pikachu.</p>

<p>Steelix and specially defensive Regirock wall this set if you go with Hidden Power Ice in the fourth slot. If you go with Grass Knot, then Grass types like Roserade and Venusaur wall the set. A Pokemon to deal with these threats is required, such as Registeel (watch out for Sleep Powder), Regice, or any defensive Pokemon, such as Uxie. Uxie has the benefit of handling pokemon like Swords Dance Leafeon as well. Make sure you watch out for Sleep Powder.</p>

[SET]
name: Special Sweeper
move 1: Thunderbolt
move 2: Substitute
move 3: Hidden Power Ice
move 4: Grass Knot
item: Light Ball
ability: Static
nature: Timid
evs: 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>Pikachu's Special Attack reaches very high levels, so an all-out sweeper set is viable. This set focuses more on type coverage than causing switches, and gets good coverage on most threats in UU and NU alike. Thunderbolt will be your main sweeping move, with Hidden Power and Grass Knot used for coverage on Grass-, Rock-, and Ground-types. Substitute is vital to provide Pikachu with a safety blanket from priority attacks, attacks in general, and Dugtrio, and you should attempt to keep a Substitute up while sweeping.</p>

<p>Pikachu is still incredibly hard to switch in, so utilizing U-turn is a good strategy. Or, you could go the ballsy way and use your prediction skills to bring Pikachu in. One is safe, but the other is much more fun to pull off. </p>

<p>Chansey and Clefable can easily cut Pikachu's sweep short, so pairing Pikachu with a strong Pursuit user such as Honckrow or Absol is recommended. Using a Pokemon like Blaziken and the aforementioned Pursuit users can also ensure that Chansey thinks twice before switching into Pikachu, lest Blaziken double switch into it. Lanturn also causes problems for this set since it is immune to Thunderbolt, resists Hidden Power Ice, and is only hit by Grass Knot for 40 BP. Pursuiting it can work; however, Lanturn can simply stay in and KO your Pursuit user with STAB Thunderbolt. Dugtrio works well here, trapping and KOing Lanturn with STAB Earthquake. In fact, Dugtrio can even be used to take care of Chansey and Clefable, and is definitely worth considering for a team slot. Registeel, another counter to Pikachu, is also dispatched by all the mentioned teammates.</p>

[SET]
name: Mixed Mascot
move 1: Thunderbolt
move 2: Substitute
move 3: Focus Punch
move 4: Hidden Power Ice / Grass Knot
item: Light Ball
ability: Static
nature: Hasty
evs: 76 Atk / 180 SpA / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>Since Light Ball doubles both Pikachu's offensive stats, a mixed set is viable.</p>

<p>Thunderbolt is your main attacking move, however, you can choose to run Volt Tackle instead. However, it is generally an inferior option, as the recoil will shorten Pikachu's already meager life span. Substitute is vital on Pikachu, and coincidentally has great synergy with Focus Punch. Focus Punch is powerful enough to KO Chansey with Stealth Rock in play, and deals a hefty 58 - 69% to the standard Registeel. Since Registeel has no reliable recovery, it won't be in a position to wall anything after taking a Focus Punch to the face, especially if it has already taken prior damage.</p>

<p>If for some reason you don't want to take a chance with Focus Punch, then Brick Break is an alternative move. However, it's quite weak, and Focus Punch is generally the superior option, since you should have a Substitute up anyway. And hey - you're gutsy enough to be using Pikachu in the first place, so Focus Punch should be a piece of cake to pull off. Hidden Power Ice is for coverage against Grass-types. Alternatively, Grass Knot can be used to finish off Regirock after it is hit by Focus Punch and get a 2HKO on Steelix, who, due to his gigantic Defense, is not 2HKOed by Focus Punch.</p>

<p>The EVs on this set guarantee the OHKO on Chansey with Focus Punch if Stealth Rock is up, and a minimum of 74% to max HP/ 152 Def Bold Clefable. Speed is maxed out, and the rest is put into Special Attack for obvious reasons. If you decide to go with Brick Break, then a spread of 152 Atk / 104 SpA / 252 Spe with a Hasty Nature is recommended to get a guaranteed 2HKO on Chansey, taking into account Leftovers recovery.</p>

<p>As with every other set, Pikachu appreciates entry hazard support, especially Spikes. When combined with Focus Punch and STAB Thunderbolt, its switch-ins will be taking large amounts of damage each time they enter the field.</p>

<p>Since this Pikachu set does very well against Chansey, Clefable, and Lanturn due to Focus Punch, Pursuit support is not required. Pikachu's best teammates in this case are those that can take advantage of a weakened or eliminated Chansey and Registeel. Special sweepers like Moltres and Espeon come to mind. If you are not using Grass Knot, then a powerful wall breaker to remove Steelix is appreciated, such as Blaziken or Magmortar.</p>

[Other Options]

<p>Pikachu can use Nasty Plot, but the reason there is no Nasty Plot set is that Pikachu is just like Deoxys-A in Ubers - it doesn't have time to set up and attack. Any free turns are better used setting up a Substitute and attacking straight away.</p>

<p>Pikachu can use Surf, and with the 20th Anniversary Nintendo Power event that was held back on Sept. 13, 2008, we are no longer limited to legitimate crappy Hardy natured Surfing Pikachu from Pokémon Battle Revolution. However, its only real use is to hit Camerupt harder, since Steelix is 2HKOed by Grass Knot anyway. </p>

[EVs]

<p>Pikachu is really easy to EV - just go max Speed and max Special Attack on the special attacking sets, and use the EVs given if you're using the mixed set. There's no point investing in those garbage defenses.</p>

<p>Do not, under any circumstances, be tempted to use Modest for the extra power. It sounds nice in theory, but the fact is that Pikachu needs every bit of speed it can get, since it can't take a hit at all.</p>

<p>Be careful not to put the last 4 EVs in HP. This causes Pikachu to have 212 HP, which means that it can only use Substitute 3 times. Always ensure that Pikachu has an odd-numbered HP; this also rounds down Spikes and Stealth Rock damage (as if it makes a difference with those defenses).</p>

[Team Options]

<p>Pikachu absolutely loves entry hazards, since it causes quite a few switches. As such, Roserade and Omastar are good users of Spikes, while Stealth Rock is available on quite a few Pokemon such as Registeel, Steelix, or Regirock.</p>

<p>Set-up sweepers that can take advantage of Encored moves are good teammates for Pikachu. Such sweepers include, but are not limited to, Swords Dance Scyther, Calm Mind Mismagius, and Dragon Dance Altaria.</p>

<p>Pikachu is incredibly hard to switch in, so utilizing U-turn or Baton Pass is a good strategy. Good users of U-turn include Uxie, Scyther, and Moltres. Moltres is particularly effective, seeing as it lures in bulky Water-types. Lopunny is another good candidate as it can Encore an opponent's attack, and then Baton Pass a Substitute to Pikachu, along with an Agility.</p>

<p>Steelix is generally a pain for Pikachu if it does not carry Grass Knot. Thus, Pokemon like Houndoom, Blaziken, and Magmortar are good teammates for eliminating Steelix. And, oh happy coincidence, they also beat Chansey and Clefable as well. Pursuit users such as Honchkrow and Absol also work well to remove Chansey from the picture. Dugtrio is another option due to his ability to trap and eliminate Lanturn with Earthquake.</p>

<p>Pikachu also appreciates Paralysis support. Slowing down the opponent's team is extremely beneficial for Pikachu, since it can now outrun many foes that it would not otherwise be able to.</p>

[Opinion]

<p>Pikachu packs a serious punch. Beware, however, that using Pikachu is not for the faint of heart. But if you are a battler with serious balls, or if you're just plain stupid, then Pikachu is the rat for you. Yes, it's difficult to get in without some prediction. No, it can't take a hit. But a Pikachu sweep, should it happen, is truly satisfying - both for your ego and for imagining the look on the face of your opponent who laughed at you for using Pikachu.</p>

[Counters]

<p>Chansey, Clefable, Lanturn, and Registeel all solidly counter special versions of Pikachu. However, they all risk taking a Focus Punch to the face if they come up against the mixed variant. Chansey and Clefable also risk being hit by Volt Tackle, although Pikachu itself will be KOed by the recoil damage it takes from obliterating Chansey's 641+ HP.</p>

<p>Anything that has over 90 base Speed or priority is a counter to Pikachu, as it isn't taking any hit short of a Caterpie Tackle and Seismic Toss. One hit is all that it takes for the rat to go down.</p>

------------------------------------------------------------



Critique away!
 
lol pikachu

red = delete
blue = add or corrections
green = comments

at times I'm not sure what the tone of the analysis is. is it supposed to be a 100% serious analysis or a half-joking one that explains Pikachu's sets while still kind of saying "haha I can't believe you're using Pikachu"? I think you're trying to keep the tone casual (which it should be since it's PIKACHU) but at times the style seems... choppy, kind of like you're writing a serious analysis then remembering "oh it's pikachu" and switching to an informal tone too abruptly.

I agree with the switch from Brick Break to Focus Punch on the mixed attacker because splitting EVs makes Pikachu's primary attacks much weaker. despite how weird this sounds, 398 SpA is not very high considering Pikachu either has to OHKO everything or essentially die. It's not like you should be staying in too often without a sub anyways.

[SET]
name: Encore
move 1: Encore
move 2: Substitute
move 3: Thunderbolt
move 4: Hidden Power Ice (space) / Grass Knot
item: Light Ball
ability: Static
nature: Timid
evs: 4 Def (space) / 252 SpA (space) / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>Pikachu may seem useless at first glance, with big brother Raichu outclassing it in every single stat. However, due to it's unique hold item, Light Ball, both its offensive stats are doubled, making the Pokemon mascot a force to be reckoned with.</p>

<p>This set is one of Pikachu's best options to set up a sweep, either for itself or a teammate. The idea is to Encore a harmless move, such as a Clefable's Softboiled, and set up a Substitute. Then you can pound the opponent with either a STAB Thunderbolt or Hidden Power Ice. </p>

<p>Substitute is a must on all of Pikachu's sets. The protection it offers is often the difference between life and death for the little yellow rodent. Thunderbolt is for provides a strong STAB attack and can really hurt severely dent most thingsPokemon not resistant or immune to it. Hidden Power Ice provides the best neutral coverage alongside Thunderbolt, and hits Grass(-)types hard. Alternatively, Grass Knot can be used to get the guaranteed 2HKO on max HP (space) / 136 SpD Steelix(,) and most Regirock (space) (outside of a sandstorm), who otherwise wall the set, assuming Stealth Rock is in play.</p>

<p>Pikachu can be very annoying for your opponent, but getting him in is quite hard, given his pathetic excuses for defences. It therefore takes some prediction to switch it in. A less risky way is to utilize the moves U-turn and Baton Pass to get Pikachu in. Once Pikachu is in, let the fun begin.</p>

<p>Pikachu appreciates entry hazards support, since Encore causes switches. If you Encore a move like Earthquake (space) (from behind the substitute), you can give another teammate a free switch in. Honchkrow is a perfect example of this, being granted a free switch in on the Encored Earthquake, and then Pursuiting the opponent as it switches out. Honchkrow's Pursuit also means that it can quite easily eliminate Chansey and Clefable, who can wall Pikachu, or at least weaken them to the point where they will be too weak to face Pikachu again. </p>

<p>Sweepers like Calm Mind Mismagius, SubCharge Rotom, or Swords Dance Scyther will love the free turns that Encore provides. In fact, any set up sweeper loves free turns, so they make excellent teammates for Pikachu.</p>

<p>Steelix and max HP/ max SDef specially defensive Regirock wall this set if you go with Hidden Power Ice in the fourth slot(,)(;) however, you should have a Substitute up when they switch in. You can then Encore the obvious Earthquake, and switch to any of the above mentioned set-up sweepers. If you go with Grass Knot, then Grass types like Roserade and Venusaur wall the set. A Pokemon to deal with these threats is required, such as Registeel (space) (watch out for Sleep Powder). </p> Lanturn, Quagsire, Gastrodon, Registeel, etc, anything specially bulky... maybe emphasize Spikes support since lots of Pikachu's counters are grounded.

[SET]
name: Special Sweeper
move 1: Thunderbolt
move 2: Substitute
move 3: Hidden Power Ice
move 4: Grass Knot
item: Light Ball
ability: Static
nature: Timid
evs: 4 Def (space) / 252 SpA (space) / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>Pikachu's Special Attack reaches very high levels, so an all-out sweeper set is viable . This set focuses more on type coverage than causing switches, and gets good coverage on most threats in UU and NU alike. Thunderbolt will be your main sweeping move, with Hidden Power and Grass Knot used whenever necessary for coverage on Grass-, Rock-, and Ground-types. Substitute is as vital as ever, and, as far as possible, vital to provide Pikachu a safety blanket from priority attacks and Dugtrio, and you should attempt to keep a substitute up while sweeping.</p>

<p>Pikachu is still incredibly hard to bring switch in, so utilizing U-turn is still a viable good strategy. Good users of U-turn include Uxie and Scyther. Moltres, since it attracts Milotic? Or, you could go the ballsy way and use your prediction skills to bring Pikachu in, such as utilising Double Switches. One is safe, but the other is much more fun to pull off. If you pull it off, that is. </p> Lopunny can get a free sub 9/10 times with Encore then Baton Pass it to Pikachu or an appropriate teammate. Double switching is kind of obvious... don't think it needs to be mentioned.

<p>Chansey and Clefable can easily cut Pikachu's sweep short, so pairing Pikachu with a strong Pursuit user such as Honckrow or Absol is recommended. Using a Pokemon like Blaziken and the aforementioned Pursuit users can also ensure that Chansey thinks twice before switching into Pikachu, lest Blaziken double switch into it. Lanturn also causes problems for this set, so a way to deal with Lanturn is required. Pursuiting it can work, however, Lanturn can simply stay in and KO your Pursuit user with STAB Thunderbolt. Dugtrio works well here, trapping and KOing Lanturn with STAB Earthquake. In fact, Dugtrio can even be used to take care of Chansey and Clefable, and is definitely worth consideration. Registeel, another counter to Pikachu, is also dispatched by all the mentioned teammates.</p>

[SET]
name: Mixed Mascot
move 1: Volt Tackle (space) / (space) Thunderbolt
move 2: Substitute
move 3: Brick Break (space) / (space) Focus Punch
move 4: Hidden Power Ice (space) / Grass Knot
item: Light Ball
ability: Static
nature: Timid
evs: 152 Atk (space) / 104 SpA (space) / 252 Spe (this is being worked on)

[SET COMMENTS]

<p></p>

[Other Options]

<p>Pikachu can use Nasty Plot, but the reason there is no Nasty Plot set is that Pikachu is just like Deoxys-A in Ubers - it doesn't have time to set up and attack. Any free turns are better used setting up a Substitute and attacking straight away.</p>

<p>Pikachu can use Surf, and with the 20th Anniversary Nintendo Power event that was held back on Sept. 13, 2008 we are no longer limited to legitimate crappy Hardy natured Surfing Pikachu from Pokémon Battle Revolution. However, its only real use is to hit Camerupt harder, since Steelix is 2HKOed by Grass Knot anyway. </p>

[EVs]

<p>Pikachu is really easy to EV - just go max Speed and max Special Attack on the special attacking sets, and use the EVs given if you're using the mixed set. There's no point investing in those garbage defenses.</p>

<p> Do not, under any circumstances, be tempted to use Modest for the extra power. Sure, it sounds nice, but the fact is that Pikachu needs every bit of speed it can get, since it can't take a hit at all.</p>

<p>Be careful not to put the last 4 EVs in HP. This causes Pikachu to have 212 HP, which means that it can only use Substitute 3 times. Always ensure that Pikachu has an odd-numbered HP, this also rounds down Spikes and Stealth Rock damage (space) (as if it makes a difference with those defenses).</p>

[Team Options]

<p></p>

[Opinion]

<p>Pikachu packs a serious punch. Beware, however, that using Pikachu is not for the faint-hearted. But if you are a battler with serious balls, or if you're just plain stupid, then Pikachu is the rat for you. Yes, it's difficult to get in without some prediction. Yes, it can't take a hit. But a Pikachu sweep, should it happen, is truly satisfying - both for your ego and the opponent who laughed at you for using Pikachu.</p>

[Counters]

<p>Chansey, Clefable, Lanturn, and Registeel all solidly counter special versions of Pikachu. However, they all risk taking a Focus Punch to the face if they come up against the mixed variant.</p>

<p>Anything with over 90 base Speed is a counter to Pikachu, as it isn't taking any hit short of a Caterpie tackle, and Seismic Toss.</p>
 
Thanks whistle, I edited in most of the changes. I kept this line though -

Or, you could go the ballsy way and use your prediction skills to bring Pikachu in, such as utilising Double Switches. One is safe, but the other is much more fun to pull off. If you pull it off, that is.

It fits in with the whole theme of being gutsy enough to use Pikachu. However, if others object, I'll remove it.
 
Nasty Plot deserves a better mention that what it currently has. Whilst it is generally inferior to Subtitute, it probably deserves a mention in the set comments of the Special Sweeper set

Grass Knot 2HKOs Regirock unless it is overly specially defensive or Sandstorm is in play (and that's if your opponent decides to use the rare Hippotas). Instead of using Substitute after you force the opponent to switch, you use Nasty Plot. Now that Regirock is OHKOed. 252 HP / 0 SpD Clefable has a 74.36% to be OHKOed by +2 Nasty Plot. Or if Chansey switches into Pikachu as you use Nasty Plot, you can now swap out whilst retaining the HP that would have otherwise been used on Substitute. Scoring a free hit on Chansey is irrelevant, because it's Chansey.



Also,
<p>Pikachu is still incredibly hard to switch in, so utilizing U-turn is a good strategy. Good users of U-turn include Uxie, Scyther, and Moltres. Moltres is particularly effective, seeing as it lures in bulky water-types. Lopunny is another good candidate is it can Encore an opponent's attack, and can then Baton Pass a substitute to Pikachu, along with an Agility. Or, you could go the ballsy way and use your prediction skills to bring Pikachu in. One is safe, but the other is much more fun to pull off. If you pull it off, that is. </p>

I would mention this in team options, as it applies to all of the Pikachu sets.
 
I want to say that your writing style is really good in my opinion. It's more lighthearted while still being informative.
Just a quick opinion though - I reckon Brick Break should just be listed in set comments on the last set (when you do it). Focus Punch just has the power to take down tougher opponents like Registeel (I'll run some calcs tomorrow).
 
@Darknessmalice- I'll give Nasty Plot a try. However, most of the time you're going to find yourself wishing you had substitute, and the only time I encountered Regirock during testing, I managed to remove it early.

@Thorns- thanks! I was planning on making Focus Punch the main option anyway, since Substitute is vital to Pikachu's success. Also, to save you the trouble :

152 Atk Pikachu w/Light Ball using Focus Punch on Max HP/min def Registeel: 65 - 77%
 
Encore

<p>Pikachu may seem useless at first glance, with big brother Raichu outclassing it in every single stat. However, due to its unique hold item, Light Ball, both its offensive stats are doubled, making the Pokemon mascot a force to be reckoned with.</p>
<p>Substitute is a must on all of Pikachu's sets. The protection it offers is often the difference between life and death for the little yellow rodent. Thunderbolt provides you with a strong STAB attack and can severely dent most Pokemon not resistant or immune to it. Hidden Power Ice provides the best neutral coverage alongside Thunderbolt and hits Grass-types hard. Alternatively, Grass Knot can be used to get the guaranteed 2HKO on max HP / 136 SpD Steelix and most Regirock (outside of a sandstorm), assuming Stealth Rock is in play.</p>
<p>Pikachu can be very annoying for your opponent, but getting it in is quite hard, given its pathetic defenses. It therefore takes some prediction to switch it in. A less risky way is to utilize the moves U-turn and Baton Pass to get Pikachu in. Once Pikachu is in, let the fun begin.</p>
<p>Pikachu appreciates entry hazards support, since Encore causes switches. If you Encore a move like Earthquake (from behind the Substitute), you can give another teammate a free switch in. Honchkrow is a perfect example of this, granted a free switch-in on the Encored Earthquake. Honchkrow can then Pursuit the opponent as it switches out. Honchkrow's Pursuit also easily eliminates Chansey and Clefable, or at least, it weakens them to the point where they will be too weak to face Pikachu again.</p>
<p>Sweepers like Calm Mind Mismagius, SubCharge Rotom, or Swords Dance Scyther will love the free turns that Encore provides. In fact, any set-up sweeper loves free turns, so they make excellent teammates for Pikachu.</p>
<p>Steelix and specially defensive Regirock wall this set if you go with Hidden Power Ice in the fourth slot; however, you should have a Substitute up when they switch in. You can then Encore the obvious Earthquake, and switch to any of the above mentioned set-up sweepers. If you go with Grass Knot, then Grass types like Roserade and Venusaur wall the set. A Pokemon to deal with these threats is required, such as Registeel, Regice, or any defensive Pokemon, such as Uxie. Make sure you also watch out for Sleep Powder.</p>
Just because SD Venusaur and Leafeon fall under this as well. Mentioned Uxie as an example, although there are others.

<p>Spikes support works well, seeing as most counters to Pikachu are grounded. It also works with the theme of Encore.</p>

Special Sweeper


evs: 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
<p>Pikachu's Special Attack reaches very high levels, so an all-out sweeper set is viable. This set focuses more on type coverage than causing switches, and it gets good coverage on most threats in UU and NU alike. Thunderbolt will be your main sweeping move, with Hidden Power and Grass Knot used for coverage on Grass-, Rock-, and Ground-types. Substitute is vital to provide Pikachu with a safety blanket from priority attacks, attacks in general, and Dugtrio, and you should attempt to keep a Substitute up while sweeping.</p>
<p>Pikachu is still incredibly hard to switch in, so utilizing U-turn is a good strategy. Good users of U-turn include Uxie, Scyther, and Moltres. Moltres is particularly effective, seeing as it lures in bulky Water-types. Lopunny is another good candidate as it can Encore an opponent's attack and then Baton Pass a Substitute to Pikachu, along with an Agility. Or, you could go the ballsy way and use your prediction skills to bring Pikachu in. One is safe, but the other is much more fun to pull off. If you pull it off, that is. </p>
<p>Chansey and Clefable can easily cut Pikachu's sweep short, so pairing Pikachu with a strong Pursuit user such as Honckrow or Absol is recommended. Using a Pokemon like Blaziken and the aforementioned Pursuit users can also ensure that Chansey thinks twice before switching into Pikachu, lest Blaziken double switch into it. Lanturn also causes problems for this set, so a way to deal with Lanturn is required. Pursuiting it can work; however, Lanturn can simply stay in and KO your Pursuit user with STAB Thunderbolt. Dugtrio works well here, trapping and KOing Lanturn with STAB Earthquake. In fact, Dugtrio can even be used to take care of Chansey and Clefable and isdefinitely worth consideration. Registeel, another counter to Pikachu, is also dispatched by all the mentioned teammates.</p>
Other Options

<p>Pikachu can use Surf, and with the 20th Anniversary Nintendo Power event that was held back on Sept. 13, 2008, we are no longer limited to legitimate crappy Hardy natured Surfing Pikachu from Pokémon Battle Revolution. However, its only real use is to hit Camerupt harder, since Steelix is 2HKOed by Grass Knot anyway.</p>
EVs

<p>Do not, under any circumstances, be tempted to use Modest for the extra power. It sounds nice in theory, but the fact is that Pikachu needs every bit of speed it can get, since it can't take a hit at all.</p>
<p>Be careful not to put the last 4 EVs in HP. This causes Pikachu to have 212 HP, which means that it can only use Substitute 3 times. Always ensure that Pikachu has an odd-numbered HP; this also rounds down Spikes and Stealth Rock damage (as if it makes a difference with those defenses).</p>
Opinion

<p>Pikachu packs a serious punch. Beware, however, that using Pikachu is not for the faint of heart. But if you are a battler with serious balls, or if you're just plain stupid, then Pikachu is the rat for you. Yes, it's difficult to get in without some prediction. No, it can't take a hit. But a Pikachu sweep, should it happen, is truly satisfying - both for your ego and for imagining the look on the face of your opponent who laughed at you for using Pikachu.</p>
Counters

<p>Chansey, Clefable, Lanturn, and Registeel all solidly counter special versions of Pikachu. However, they all risk taking a Focus Punch to the face if they come up against the mixed variant. Chansey and Clefable also risk being hit by Volt Tackle, although Pikachu itself will be KOed by the recoil damage it takes from obliterating Chansey's 641+ HP.</p>
<p>Anything that has over 90 base Speed or priority is a counter to Pikachu, as it isn't taking any hit short of a Caterpie Tackle and Seismic Toss.</p>
 
If you are still working on an EV spread for Pikachu's Mixed Mascot set, I suggest you try using this one:

76 Atk / 182 SpA / 252 Spe / Naive nature

All your using Focus Punch against would probably be Blissey and Snorlax, so with 76 Attack EVs, you are guaranteed an OHKO with Stealth Rock in play. The rest are dumped into Special Attack for obvious reasons.

I'm not sure what that EV spread accomplishes, so I wouldn't know.
 
Some mention of Hidden Power Grass might be nice since Rotom, Gastrodon, Dugtrio and the like are all hit harder. Grass Knot is only hitting Steelix and Camerupt for 120 BP, anyway.
 
Some mention of Hidden Power Grass might be nice since Rotom, Gastrodon, Dugtrio and the like are all hit harder. Grass Knot is only hitting Steelix and Camerupt for 120 BP, anyway.

Dugtrio is dying to Hidden power Ice anyway. Gastrodon isn't taking a 398 SpAtk Grass Knot anyway. Rotom is hit the same by HP Ice and Grass.

Fuzznip, this spread is for UU, and the current EVs get the 2HKO on Chansey and Clefable with Brick Break, and the 2HKO on Registeel with Focus Punch. However, your EVs look good, since Focus punch is the main option now.
 
This isn't exactly an edit or suggestion or anything, but when exactly will Pikachu ever Encore Earthquake? Chances are it'll end up sacrificing itself if it tries, since there's no way a Sub is still going to be there after the attack, and since Pikachu is pretty fast it most likely will be going first and thus can't Sub again to try and Encore from behind one.

The only way this is possible is if something faster than Pikachu uses EQ while Pikachu is behind a Sub and Pikachu uses Encore that same turn. However, the only Pokemon in UU (where Pikachu is most likely to be used) that can outspeed and use Earthquake are Dugtrio (traps you anyways and dies from HP Ice), Sceptile (HP Ice), Charizard (Thunderbolt), Miltank (only 16% ran EQ in July, and only 9.2% ran more than 50 Speed EVs), and Drapion (Dark-type so the Honchkrow Pursuit strategy doesn't work).

Maybe there's something I'm missing here, or perhaps it's more likely to have a speedier EQ in OU that isn't raped by Thunderbolt or HP Ice (a.k.a. non-Yache Gliscor, Flygon, Gyarados, etc.), but it seems extraordinarily rare that you'll even have the chance to use that combo at all, let alone want to.
 
Magicmaster, you make a good point. Of course, Earthquake was just an example of an encored move. It can apply to any move really.

I'll make a change though, thanks!
 
Gastrodon isn't taking a 398 SpAtk Grass Knot anyway.
Grass Knot
Code:
398 Atk vs 200 Def & 416 HP (60 Base Power): 344 - 408 (82.69% - 98.08%)
Hidden Power Grass
Code:
398 Atk vs 200 Def & 416 HP (70 Base Power): 404 - 476 (97.12% - 114.42%)
...yeah

Dugtrio is dying to Hidden power Ice anyway.
Rotom is hit the same by HP Ice and Grass.
You're really missing the point. Hidden Power Grass either frees up an entire moveslot, or limits what can switch in on Pikachu safely.
 
Fuzznip, this spread is for UU, and the current EVs get the 2HKO on Chansey and Clefable with Brick Break, and the 2HKO on Registeel with Focus Punch. However, your EVs look good, since Focus punch is the main option now.

Err, my bad. I was thinking OU specifically, didn't even remember that Pikachu is being used in UU, wow. Anyways, you can still have a small mention in that Mixed set that Pikachu can be used in OU, as it's a pretty nasty stall breaker.
 
Grass Knot
Code:
398 Atk vs 200 Def & 416 HP (60 Base Power): 344 - 408 (82.69% - 98.08%)
Hidden Power Grass
Code:
398 Atk vs 200 Def & 416 HP (70 Base Power): 404 - 476 (97.12% - 114.42%)
...yeah

You're really missing the point. Hidden Power Grass either frees up an entire moveslot, or limits what can switch in on Pikachu safely.

This is for the encore set, I'm assuming, because Pikachu doesn't really have any other viable moves for that free moveslot. Surf, that's it.

Anything can switch into Pikachu safely - you're setting up a Sub on the switch. Hidden Power Grass is inferior to Grass Knot, since it leaves you walled by Grass types AND Steelix/Regirock, in exchange for the guaranteed OHKO on Gastrodon. But I'd rather hit the more common pokemon, and it's not Gastrodon. That 82- 98% is good enough with SR, and ideally it's taken a little bit of damage already. Heck, Spikes support is even listed in team options.
 
Bump. I finished the rest of the analysis, I would like a proofread. Thanks.

edit: Thanks BMB, edited the changes!
 
[SET]
name: Mixed Mascot
move 1: Thunderbolt
move 2: Substitute
move 3: Focus Punch
move 4: Hidden Power Ice / Grass Knot
item: Light Ball
ability: Static
nature: Hasty
evs: 76 Atk / 180 SpA / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>Thanks to Light Ball, Pikachu's Attack stat is quite usable, and so a mixed set is on offer.</p>

<p>Thunderbolt is your main attacking move. Substitute is vital on Pikachu, and coincidentally has great synergy with Focus Punch. Focus Punch is powerful enough to KO Chansey with Stealth Rock in play, and does a hefty 58 - 69% to the standard Registeel. Since Registeel has no reliable recovery, it won't be in a position to wall anything after taking a Focus Punch to the face, especially if it has already taken prior damage.</p>

<p>If for some reason you don't want to rely on Focus Punch, then Brick Break is an alternative move. However, it's quite weak, and Focus Punch is generally the superior option, since you should have a Substitute up anyway. And hey, you're gutsy enough to be using Pikachu in the first place, so Focus Punch should be a piece of cake to pull off. Hidden Power Ice is for coverage against Grass-types. Alternatively, Grass Knot can be used to finish off Regirock after it is hit by Focus Punch, and get a 2HKO on Steelix who, due to its gigantic Defense, is not 2HKOed by Focus Punch.</p>

<p>The EVs on this set guarantee the OHKO on Chansey with Focus Punch if Stealth Rock is up, and a minimum of 74% to max HP/ 152 Def Bold Clefable. Speed is maxed out, and the rest is put into Special Attack for obvious reasons. If you decide to go with Brick Break, then a spread of 152 Atk / 104 SpA / 252 Spe with a Hasty Nature is recommended to get a guaranteed 2HKO on Chansey.</p>

<p>As with every other set, Pikachu appreciates entry hazard support, especially Spikes. When combined with Focus Punch and STAB Thunderbolt, its switch-ins will be taking large amounts of damage each time they enter the field.</p>

<p>Since this Pikachu set does very well against Chansey, Clefable, and Lanturn due to Focus Punch, Pursuit support is not required. Pikachu's best teammates in this case are those that can take advantage of a weakened or eliminated Chansey and Registeel. Special sweepers like Moltres and Espeon come to mind. If you are not using Grass Knot, then a powerful wall breaker to remove Steelix is appreciated, such as Blaziken or Magmortar.</p>

[Team Options]

<p>Pikachu absolutely loves entry hazards, since it causes quite a few switches. As such, Roserade and Omastar are good users of Spikes, while Stealth Rock is available on quite a few Pokemon such as Registeel, Steelix, or Regirock.</p>

<p>Set-up sweepers that can take advantage of Encored moves are good teammates for Pikachu. Such sweepers include, but are not limited to, Swords Dance Scyther, Calm Mind Mismagius, and Dragon Dance Altaria.</p>

<p>Pikachu is incredibly hard to switch in, so utilizing U-turn or Baton Pass is a good strategy. Good users of U-turn include Uxie, Scyther, and Moltres. Moltres is particularly effective, seeing as it lures in bulky Water-types. Lopunny is another good candidate as it can Encore an opponent's attack, and then Baton Pass a Substitute to Pikachu, along with an Agility. Or, you could go the ballsy way and use your prediction skills to bring Pikachu in. One is safe, but the other is much more fun to pull off. If you pull it off, that is.</p>

<p>Steelix is generally a pain for Pikachu if it does not carry Grass Knot. Thus, Pokemon like Houndoom, Blaziken, and Magmortar are good teammates for eliminating Steelix. And, oh happy coincidence, they also beat Chansey and Clefable as well. Pursuit users such as Honchkrow and Absol also work well to remove Chansey from the picture. Dugtrio is another option for the ability to trap and eliminate Lanturn with Earthquake.</p>

<p>Pikachu also appreciates Paralysis support. Slowing down the opponent's team is extremely beneficial for Pikachu, since it can now outrun many foes that it would not otherwise be able to.</p>

Quick proofread of new bits. Looks good.
 
A minor update:

I changed the set order a little bit. Mixed Mascot was the most effective set in my experience, and it has been moved to the top. If anyone has an objection, feel free to tell me.

I also tried out Nasty Plot, both with and without Substitute. In the end, I decided against writing a set for it, simply because, on the set without Substitute, Nasty Plot is hardly ever able to be effectively used, and Substitute is a hundred times better. Sorry, Darknessmalice.
 
I've used Volt Tackle, Grass Knot, HP Ice, Focus Blast Raichu to nice effect and believe Pikachu could pull the same set, so I'm just throwing it here if you want to test. A shame Volt Tackle and Surf aren't legal together.
 
You mention Volt Tackle in the counters section, but it didn't make it in any analysis - hell, not even in Other Options. It seems quite odd to me
 
@Zarator: made a mention of it in set comments, thanks!

@Dekzeh: Sounds good, but it runs into 2 main problems. Lack of Substitute, and Focus Blast's shaky accuracy. Pikachu really can't afford to miss. Thanks for the suggestion though!

Oh, I changed the order of the sets back to what it was before. Mixed Mascot is probably just personal bias :)
 
@Zarator: made a mention of it in set comments, thanks!

@Dekzeh: Sounds good, but it runs into 2 main problems. Lack of Substitute, and Focus Blast's shaky accuracy. Pikachu really can't afford to miss. Thanks for the suggestion though!

Oh, I changed the order of the sets back to what it was before. Mixed Mascot is probably just personal bias :)

Focus Blast is there only for the OHKO on Steelix and the Steel/Rock types (who are never used anyway) and for the lack of a better move. Volt Tackle already 2HKO's Registeel. You might even slash Quick Attack there if you want :P
 
Back
Top