Plasmanta (Revamp)

snake

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[OVERVIEW]

Plasmanta can take advantage of Substitute to capitalize on its ability to force out Grass- and Fairy-types and use the appropriate coverage more easily. Additionally, its unique Electric / Poison typing allows it to break past Jumbao and Tangrowth, which most Electric-types cannot do easily. Despite these positives, Plasmanta is basically unviable and should not be considered for most serious teams. Plasmanta requires its STAB moves and Hidden Power coverage to hit the metagame effectively, and its STAB attacks are easy to play around due to the ubiquity of Ground- and Steel-types, while Hidden Power is easy to punish due to the low Base Power. Without Volt Switch, Plasmanta struggles to gain momentum as well as other Electric-types like Krilowatt and Tapu Koko. It's stuck in an awkward Speed tier of 100, falling short of one of its hardest counters, Pajantom. No recovery outside of Leftovers prevents even a well-played Plasmanta from consistently checking Grass- and Fairy-types like it's supposed to. Furthermore, offensive Pokemon that it would otherwise want to check such as Tapu Koko, Tornadus-T, and Magearna are special attackers, which prey on its pitiful special bulk. Finally, defensive Pokemon that Plasmanta can break open like Arghonaut, Jumbao, and Tangrowth commonly run Ground-type coverage, further limiting its opportunities to switch in.

[SET]
name: Substitute + 3 Attacks
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Thunderbolt
move 3: Sludge Bomb
move 4: Hidden Power Fire / Hidden Power Ice
item: Leftovers
ability: Storm Drain
nature: Timid
evs: 48 HP / 208 SpA / 252 Spe

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

Substitute not only eases prediction for the Plasmanta user but also allows Plasmanta to scout for Choice Scarf from Pokemon like Landorus-T and lets Plasmanta beat Ferrothorn cleanly if it opts to run Hidden Power Fire. Thunderbolt is used over Discharge to reliably 2HKO Arghonaut and OHKO Tornadus-T. Hidden Power Fire 2HKOes Ferrothorn, which would otherwise wall Plasmanta, and reliably OHKOes Kartana. Alternatively, Hidden Power Ice 2HKOes Gliscor and OHKOes most Landorus-T sets.

Set Details
========

48 HP EVs prevent Ferrothorn's Knock Off from breaking Plasmanta's Substitute. Running a Timid nature allows Plasmanta to outspeed non-Choice Scarf Tapu Lele, offensive Jumbao, and maximum Speed Landorus-T.

Usage Tips
========

Switching into Pokemon like Caribolt, Toxapex, and Kartana ensures Plasmanta will take as little damage as possible when switching in, though it should be wary of Knock Off from Toxapex and Kartana. Once in, it is generally best to use Substitute on the forced switch to gauge the opponent's best response to Plasmanta. Also, it eases prediction, which Plasmanta would be very reliant on. Then, use the appropriate coverage move to damage the switch-in or fish for a poison with Sludge Bomb. However, if the opponent has a hard counter to Plasmanta like Smokomodo or Chansey, it's usually best to double switch out. Opponents will likely be careful not to use Water-type moves with Choice Scarf Volkraken or Ash-Greninja when Plasmanta is alive. Use this to your advantage, limiting these powerful wallbreakers' actions.

Team Options
========

Despite the fact that Plasmanta can lure some Ground-types and take them out with Hidden Power Ice, Ground-type checks like Jumbao, Tangrowth, Tornadus-T, and Landorus-T are vital. Psychic-type checks like Celesteela, Magearna, and Ferrothorn are also necessary. Entry hazard setters like Greninja and Landorus-T help Plasmanta better punish switches, and hazard removers like Tornadus-T and Kitsunoh improve its ability to switch in. Pursuit trappers like Weavile, Mega Tyranitar, and Colossoil trap many of Plasmanta's checks like Mega Latios, Pajantom, and Tapu Lele Choice-locked into Psychic. Because Plasmanta draws in Ferrothorn, Pokemon that appreciate it worn down like Tapu Lele and Magearna are useful teammates. If Plasmanta is not running Hidden Power Fire, though, Pokemon like Heatran and Volkraken that like Ferrothorn to switch in make for good partners. Similarly, Necturna, Mega Pinsir, Gyarados, and Aurumoth appreciate Plasmanta's ability to lure out Ground-types.

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

Plasmanta can run Taunt or Encore over Substitute, but these are generally inferior because they don't ease prediction as Substitute does.

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

**Faster Attackers**: Pokemon that commonly appear on teams wear down Plasmanta quickly before it can set up a Substitute. Tornadus-T nearly KOes Plasmanta with Hurricane + Supersonic Skystrike and OHKOes with Hidden Power Ground. Syclant and Greninja demolish Plasmanta with Earthquake and Ice Beam. Ash-Greninja and Choice Scarf Volkraken can use their secondary STAB moves to bypass Plasmanta's Storm Drain and KO it. Pajantom can avoid being 2HKOed by Hidden Power Ice and OHKO back with Earthquake.

**Chansey**: Chansey easily walls Plasmanta, and while it fears odd options like Taunt and Encore, Plasmanta rarely runs these moves.

**Psychic-types**: With naturally high Special Defense, Mega Latios, Hoopa-U, and Mega Alakazam can generally take Plasmanta's hits well enough to retaliate, but they hate being crippled by poison. Mega Medicham Speed ties with Plasmanta and OHKOes it with Zen Headbutt but doesn't like to take repeated hits. Choice Scarf Tapu Lele cannot switch into Sludge Bomb but soundly OHKOes Plasmanta otherwise.

**Ground-types**: Gliscor and Landorus-T need to avoid Hidden Power Ice, but they can OHKO Plasmanta otherwise. Fidgit and Colossoil can take a couple of rounds of Hidden Power Ice and OHKO with Earth Power or Earthquake. However, if Plasmanta reveals to be Hidden Power Fire, these Pokemon are very safe switch-ins. Smokomodo and Gastrodon can switch into Plasmanta quite easily and force it out as well.

**Steel-types**: Though Ferrothorn cannot break Plasmanta's Substitute easily, it can use Plasmanta as fodder for setting up entry hazards and isn't forced out unless Plasmanta runs Hidden Power Fire. Magearna, while usually running resisted coverage, nearly OHKOes with +1 Twinkle Tackle and Hidden Power Ground and 2HKOes with +1 Ice Beam. Kitsunoh and Heatran don't appreciate repeated hits from Thunderbolt but can OHKO Plasmanta easily with Earthquake and Earth Power.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[snake_rattler, 227784]]
- Quality checked by: [[Jordy, 395754], [Mx, 298148], [Jho, 208105]]
- Grammar checked by: [[Rabia, 336073], [The Dutch Plumberjack, 232216]]
 
Last edited by a moderator:
comments/things to add in purple things to remove in red
[OVERVIEW]

- Plasmanta's unique Electric / Poison typing seems desirable, as most Electric-types cannot break past Jumbao and Tangrowth.
- However, even looking past its lack of Volt Switch You did not talk about this earlier, why is this relevant? , Plasmanta's shortcomings make it extremely hard to fit onto teams.
- It's stuck in an awkward speed tier of 100, falling short of one of its hardest counters, Pajantom, and giving it a dicey matchup against Mega Medicham.
- Offensive Pokemon that it wants to check such as Choice Scarf Volkraken, Greninja, Tornadus-T, and Magearna are special attackers, which prey on its pitiful special bulk. Plasmanta cannot even prevent Battle Bond Greninja from transforming because it takes too much damage from Dark Pulse. Add "despite its immunity to Water-type attacks", otherwise the Greninja point doesn't really make sense.
- Defensive Pokemon that Plasmanta can break open like Arghonaut, Jumbao, and Pyroak commonly run Ground-type coverage, further limiting its switch-in opportunities.
- No recovery outside of Leftovers prevents even a well-played Plasmanta from consistently checking the Pokemon it needs to like Caribolt and Kartana. Plasmanta is supposed to check Grass- and Fairy-types in general, so I'd rather see that than Caribolt and Kartana specifically.
- Furthermore, it requires its STAB moves and Hidden Power coverage against the metagame. Unfortunately, Electric- and Poison-type moves are hard to spam due to their immunities, and Hidden Power is easy to punish due to its low base power.
- Thus, the best set Plasmanta can muster is a Substitute set, which allows it to capitalize on the switches it forces This makes it sound like Plasmanta forces plenty of switches which really isn't true. and use the appropriate coverage without punishment.

[SET]
name: Substitute + 3 Attacks
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Thunderbolt
move 3: Sludge Bomb
move 4: Hidden Power Ice
item: Leftovers
ability: Storm Drain
nature: Timid
evs: 48 HP / 208 SpA / 252 Spe

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

- To Justify Thunderbolt over Discharge you should return the line with relevant calcs.
- Hidden Power Ice allows Plasmanta to 3HKO Pajantom You're not running Hidden Power Ice for Pajantom. It's purely to catch Zygarde, Landorus-T, and Gliscor. , 2HKO Zygarde, and OHKO most Landorus-T sets.
- Hidden Power Fire 2HKOs Ferrothorn, which would otherwise wall it, and reliably OHKOs Kartana.
- Explain Substitute (It can potentially scout out Landorus-T's set, which I think is actually really important.).

Set Details
========

- 48 HP EVs prevents Ferrothorn's Knock Off from breaking Plasmanta's Substitute.
- Running a Timid nature allows Plasmanta to outspeed non-Scarf Tapu Lele and offensive Jumbao.

Usage Tips
========

- Switching into Pokemon like Snaelstrom, Caribolt, Toxapex, Kartana, Revenankh, and Suicune ensures Plasmanta will take as little damage as possible when switching in.
- Once in, it is generally best to use Substitute on the forced switch to gauge the opponent's best response to Plasmanta. Also say that this eases prediction, which Plasmanta would be pretty reliant on otherwise.
- However, if the opponent has a hard counter to Plasmanta like Ferrothorn Plasmanta is a decent check to Ferrothorn, which gives it free Substitutes. Replace this mention with something like Smokomodo. or Chansey, it's usually best to double switch.
- Then, use the appropriate coverage move to pummel the switch in or cripple it with status. Do you do this after pulling a double switch? I think this should be moved up 1 bullet.
- Opponents will likely be careful not to use Water-type moves with Choice Scarf Volkraken or Ash-Greninja when Plasmanta is alive. Use this to your advantage, limiting these powerful wallbreakers' actions.

Team Options
========

- Ground-type checks like Jumbao, Tangrowth, Tornadus-T, and Landorus-T are vital for Plasmanta. In particular, Jumbao can provide Plasmanta Wish support, allowing Plasmanta to heal up throughout the match. Start this off with saying something like "Despite the fact that Plasmanta can lure Ground-types..."
- Psychic-type checks like Celesteela, Magearna, Ferrothorn, and Heatran allow Plasmanta are also necessary. What?
- Pokemon like Smokomodo, Heatarn, and Volcarona, appreciate Plasmanta's discouragement of Water-type moves and status spreading.
- Hazard setters like Greninja and Landorus-T and hazard removers like Tornadus-T and Kitsunoh help Plasmanta better punish switches and alleviate its own switch in opportunities.

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

- Dazzling Gleam can be used to 2HKO Pajantom and maintain coverage against Zygarde, but it weak against other targets. No.

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

**Faster Attackers**: Pokemon that commonly appear on teams wear down Plasmanta quickly before it can set up a Substitute. Tornadus-T nearly KOs Plasmanta with Hurricane + Supersonic Skystrike and OHKOs with Life Orb Hidden Power Ground. Life Orb is still quite niche and Hidden Power Ground has a good chance of KOing after Stealth Rock damage anyway. Syclant and Greninja demolish Plasmanta with Earthquake and Ice Beam. Choice Scarf Volkraken and Ash Greninja can use their secondary STAB moves to bypass Plasmanta's Storm Drain and KO it. Pajantom can avoid being 2HKOed by Hidden Power Ice and OHKO back with Earthquake.

**Psychic-types**: With naturally high Special Defense, Mega Latios, Hoopa-U, Mega Alakazam, and Mega Medicham, and Choice Scarf Tapu Lele can generally take Plasmanta's hits well enough to retaliate, but they hate being crippled by status. Just say Poison. Tapu Lele cannot switch into Sludge Bomb but soundly OHKOs it otherwise.

**Ground-types**: Zygarde and Landorus-T need to avoid Hidden Power Ice, but they can OHKO Plasmanta otherwise. Fidgit and Colossoil can take a couple of rounds of Hidden Power Ice and OHKO with Earthquake. However, if Plasmanta reveals to be Hidden Power Fire, these Pokemon are very safe switch-ins. Smokomodo can switch into any Plasmanta quite easily and force Plasmanta out as well. Was Gliscor forgotten?

**Steel-types**: Though Ferrothorn cannot break Plasmanta's Substitute easily, it can use Plasmanta as fodder for setting up hazards and isn't forced out unless Plasmanta runs Hidden Power Fire. Magearna, while usually running resisted coverage, nearly OHKOs with +1 Twinkle Tackle and 2HKOs with +1 Ice Beam. Magnezone can win a 1v1 situation against a Hidden Power Ice Plasmanta as well. Kitsunoh and Heatran doesn't appreciate repeated hits from Thunderbolt but can OHKO easily with Earthquake and Earth Power.

**Chansey**: Chansey easily walls Plasmanta and, while it fears odd options like Taunt, Encore, and Trick, Plasmanta rarely runs these moves.

This section should be rearranged as follows Faster Attackers > Chansey > Psychic-types > Ground-types > Steel-types

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[snake_rattler, 227784]]
- Quality checked by: [[, ], [, ], [, ]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]
Not 1/3, I want to go over this once more before stamping.
 
comments/things to add in purple things to remove in red
[OVERVIEW]

- Plasmanta's unique Electric / Poison typing seems desirable, as most Electric-types cannot break past Jumbao and Tangrowth.
- It aims to punish Grass- and Fairy-types from switching out with Substitute. (elaborate)
- However, Plasmanta's shortcomings make it extremely hard to fit onto teams.
- Without Volt Switch, Plasmanta struggles to gain momentum as well as other Electric-types like Krilowatt or Tapu Koko.
- It's stuck in an awkward speed tier of 100, falling short of one of its hardest counters, Pajantom, and giving it a dicey matchup against Mega Medicham.
- Offensive Pokemon that it wants to check such as Choice Scarf Volkraken, Greninja, Tornadus-T, and Magearna are special attackers, which prey on its pitiful special bulk. Despite its water immunity, Plasmanta cannot even prevent Battle Bond Greninja from transforming because it takes too much damage from Dark Pulse.
- Defensive Pokemon that Plasmanta can break open like Arghonaut, Jumbao, and Pyroak commonly run Ground-type coverage, further limiting its switch-in opportunities.
- No recovery outside of Leftovers prevents even a well-played Plasmanta from consistently checking Grass- and Fairy-types like it's supposed to.
- Furthermore, it requires its STAB moves and Hidden Power coverage against the metagame. Unfortunately, Electric- and Poison-type moves are hard to spam due to their immunities You shouldn't aim to spam them. Just say that they're kinda easy to dance around because of their immunities., and Hidden Power is easy to punish due to its low base power.
- Thus, the best set Plasmanta can muster is a Substitute set, which allows it to capitalize on the few switches it can force and use the appropriate coverage without punishment.

You should reorganize the bullet points to make more sense. Feel free to PM me about it on Discord.

[SET]
name: Substitute + 3 Attacks
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Thunderbolt
move 3: Sludge Bomb
move 4: Hidden Power Ice
item: Leftovers
ability: Storm Drain
nature: Timid
evs: 48 HP / 208 SpA / 252 Spe

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

- Substitute not only eases prediction for the Plasmanta user, but it also allows Plasmanta to scout for Choice Scarf from Pokemon like Landorus-T and Volkraken. It also allows Plasmanta to beat Ferrothorn cleanly if it opts to run Hidden Power Fire.
- Thunderbolt is used over Discharge to reliably 2HKO Snaelstorm and Arghonaut and OHKO Tornadus-T. Mention Arghonaut before Snaelstrom.
- Hidden Power Ice catches Zygarde and Gliscor on the switch for a 2HKO and OHKOs most Landorus-T sets.
- Hidden Power Fire 2HKOs Ferrothorn, which would otherwise wall it, and reliably OHKOs Kartana.

Set Details
========

- 48 HP EVs prevents Ferrothorn's Knock Off from breaking Plasmanta's Substitute.
- Running a Timid nature allows Plasmanta to outspeed non-Scarf Tapu Lele and offensive Jumbao. Maximum Speed Landorus-T is pretty important too.

Usage Tips
========

- Switching into Pokemon like Snaelstrom, Caribolt, Toxapex, Kartana, and Suicune ensures Plasmanta will take as little damage as possible when switching in.
- Once in, it is generally best to use Substitute on the forced switch to gauge the opponent's best response to Plasmanta. Also, it eases prediction, which Plasmanta would be very reliant on.
- Then, use the appropriate coverage move to pummel the switch in or cripple it with status.
- However, if the opponent has a hard counter to Plasmanta like Smokomodo or Chansey, it's usually best to double switch.
- Opponents will likely be careful not to use Water-type moves with Choice Scarf Volkraken or Ash-Greninja when Plasmanta is alive. Use this to your advantage, limiting these powerful wallbreakers' actions.

Team Options
========

- Despite the fact that Plasmanta can lure Ground-types, Ground-type checks like Jumbao, Tangrowth, Tornadus-T, and Landorus-T are vital. In particular, Jumbao can provide Plasmanta Wish support, allowing Plasmanta to heal up throughout the match.
- Psychic-type checks like Celesteela, Magearna, and Ferrthorn are also necessary.
- Hazard setters like Greninja and Landorus-T and hazard removers like Tornadus-T and Kitsunoh help Plasmanta better punish switches and alleviate its own switch in opportunities.
- Pursuit trappers like Weavile, Mega Tyranitar, and Colossoil trap many of Plasmanta's checks like Mega Latios, Pajantom, and Tapu Lele choice-locked into Psychic.
- Pokemon that like Ground-types or Ferrothorn lured.

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

- Plasmanta can run Taunt or Encore over Substitute, but these are generally inferior because they are harder to ease prediction with. They can't ease prediction at all to begin with.

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

**Faster Attackers**: Pokemon that commonly appear on teams wear down Plasmanta quickly before it can set up a Substitute. Tornadus-T nearly KOs Plasmanta with Hurricane + Supersonic Skystrike and OHKOs with Hidden Power Ground. Syclant and Greninja demolish Plasmanta with Earthquake and Ice Beam. Choice Scarf Volkraken and Ash Greninja can use their secondary STAB moves to bypass Plasmanta's Storm Drain and KO it. Pajantom can avoid being 2HKOed by Hidden Power Ice and OHKO back with Earthquake.

**Chansey**: Chansey easily walls Plasmanta and, while it fears odd options like Taunt, Encore, and Trick, Plasmanta rarely runs these moves.

**Psychic-types**: With naturally high Special Defense, Mega Latios, Hoopa-U, Mega Alakazam, and Mega Medicham can generally take Plasmanta's hits well enough to retaliate, but they hate being crippled by poison. Choice Scarf Tapu Lele cannot switch into Sludge Bomb but soundly OHKOs it otherwise.

**Ground-types**: Zygarde, Gliscor, and Landorus-T need to avoid Hidden Power Ice, but they can OHKO Plasmanta otherwise. Fidgit and Colossoil can take a couple of rounds of Hidden Power Ice and OHKO with Earthquake. Fidgit uses Earth Power. However, if Plasmanta reveals to be Hidden Power Fire, these Pokemon are very safe switch-ins. Smokomodo can switch into any Plasmanta quite easily and force Plasmanta out as well. Gastrodon can probably get a little mention here.

**Steel-types**: Though Ferrothorn cannot break Plasmanta's Substitute easily, it can use Plasmanta as fodder for setting up hazards and isn't forced out unless Plasmanta runs Hidden Power Fire. Magearna, while usually running resisted coverage, nearly OHKOs with +1 Twinkle Tackle and 2HKOs with +1 Ice Beam. Magnezone can win a 1v1 situation against a Hidden Power Ice Plasmanta as well. Kitsunoh and Heatran doesn't appreciate repeated hits from Thunderbolt but can OHKO easily with Earthquake and Earth Power.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[snake_rattler, 227784]]
- Quality checked by: [[, ], [, ], [, ]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]
 
[OVERVIEW]

- Plasmanta's unique Electric / Poison typing seems desirable, as most Electric-types cannot break past Jumbao and Tangrowth.
- However, it requires its STAB moves and Hidden Power coverage to hit the metagame effectively. Unfortunately, Electric- and Poison-type moves are easy to play around, and Hidden Power is easy to punish due to its low base power.
- Therefore, Plasmanta runs Substitute, which allows it to capitalize on its ability to force out Grass- and Fairy-types and use the appropriate coverage more easily.
- Despite these positives, Plasmanta's shortcomings make it extremely hard to fit onto teams. [I think this point should be harsher, making it clear that Plasmanta should not be used, as it is currently unranked in the viability rankings]
- Without Volt Switch, Plasmanta struggles to gain momentum as well as other Electric-types like Krilowatt or Tapu Koko.
- It's stuck in an awkward speed tier of 100, falling short of one of its hardest counters, Pajantom.
- No recovery outside of Leftovers prevents even a well-played Plasmanta from consistently checking Grass- and Fairy-types like it's supposed to.
- Futhermore, offensive Pokemon that it would otherwise want to check such as Choice Scarf Volkraken, Greninja, Tornadus-T, and Magearna are special attackers, which prey on its pitiful special bulk. Despite its water immunity, Plasmanta cannot even prevent Battle Bond Greninja from transforming because it takes too much damage from Dark Pulse. [I wouldn't consider Plasmanta as a check to Volkraken, Ash Greninja or Protean Greninja, even if it had great special bulk, as they all have enough firepower to decimate a neutral target. Add Tapu Koko instead, as Plasmanta resist its STAB Moves]
- Finally, defensive Pokemon that Plasmanta can break open like Arghonaut, Jumbao, and Pyroak [Not relevant enough, change it for Tangrowth] commonly run Ground-type coverage, further limiting its switch-in opportunities.

[SET]
name: Substitute + 3 Attacks
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Thunderbolt
move 3: Sludge Bomb
move 4: Hidden Power Fire / Hidden Power Ice
item: Leftovers
ability: Storm Drain
nature: Timid
evs: 48 HP / 208 SpA / 252 Spe

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

- Substitute not only eases prediction for the Plasmanta user, but it also allows Plasmanta to scout for Choice Scarf from Pokemon like Landorus-T and Volkraken. It also allows Plasmanta to beat Ferrothorn cleanly if it opts to run Hidden Power Fire.
- Thunderbolt is used over Discharge to reliably 2HKO Arghonaut and Snaelstrom [Unmon] and OHKO Tornadus-T.
- Hidden Power Fire 2HKOs Ferrothorn, which would otherwise wall it, and reliably OHKOs Kartana.
- Hidden Power Ice catches Gliscor on the switch for a 2HKO and OHKOs most Landorus-T sets. [With Substitute, you don't need to catch Gliscor on the switch, so just say that it's a 2HKO]

Set Details
========

- 48 HP EVs prevents Ferrothorn's Knock Off from breaking Plasmanta's Substitute.
- Running a Timid nature allows Plasmanta to outspeed non-Scarf Tapu Lele, offensive Jumbao, and maximum speed Landorus-T.

Usage Tips
========

- Switching into Pokemon like Snaelstrom, [Not relevant] Caribolt, Toxapex, Kartana, and Suicune ensures Plasmanta will take as little damage as possible when switching in. [Also note that you should be careful about Knock Off from Kartana and Toxapex]
- Once in, it is generally best to use Substitute on the forced switch to gauge the opponent's best response to Plasmanta. Also, it eases prediction, which Plasmanta would be very reliant on.
- Then, use the appropriate coverage move to pummel the switch in or cripple it with status. [This was probably a leftover from when Discharge was slashed. Maybe you could mention in the next point fishing for Poison with Sludge Bomb against counters like Smokomodo, but even that seems too situational to be worth mentioning in my opinion]
- However, if the opponent has a hard counter to Plasmanta like Smokomodo or Chansey, it's usually best to double switch.
- Opponents will likely be careful not to use Water-type moves with Choice Scarf Volkraken or Ash-Greninja when Plasmanta is alive. Use this to your advantage, limiting these powerful wallbreakers' actions.

Team Options
========

- Despite the fact that Plasmanta can lure Ground-types, [Specify that you are talking about Landorus-T and Gliscor in particular and that this only applies to sets running HP Ice] Ground-type checks like Jumbao, Tangrowth, Tornadus-T, and Landorus-T are vital. In particular, Jumbao can provide Plasmanta Wish support, allowing Plasmanta to heal up throughout the match.
- Psychic-type checks like Celesteela, Magearna, and Ferrthorn Ferrothorn are also necessary.
- Hazard setters like Greninja and Landorus-T and hazard removers like Tornadus-T and Kitsunoh help Plasmanta better punish switches and alleviate its own switch in opportunities.
- Pursuit trappers like Weavile, Mega Tyranitar, and Colossoil trap many of Plasmanta's checks like Mega Latios, Pajantom, and Tapu Lele choice-locked into Psychic.
- Pokemon like Subsitute Zygarde, [banned] Heatran, and Volkraken [Mention that this is only if not running HP Fire] that like Ferrothorn lured make for good partners. Similarly, Necturna, Mega Pinsir, Gyarados, and Aurumoth appreciate Plasmanta's ability to lure out Ground-types.

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

- Plasmanta can run Taunt or Encore over Substitute, but these are generally inferior because they don't ease prediction as Substitute does.

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

**Faster Attackers**: Pokemon that commonly appear on teams wear down Plasmanta quickly before it can set up a Substitute. Tornadus-T nearly KOs Plasmanta with Hurricane + Supersonic Skystrike and OHKOs with Hidden Power Ground. Syclant and Greninja demolish Plasmanta with Earthquake and Ice Beam. Choice Scarf Volkraken and Ash Greninja can use their secondary STAB moves to bypass Plasmanta's Storm Drain and KO it. Pajantom can avoid being 2HKOed by Hidden Power Ice and OHKO back with Earthquake.

**Chansey**: Chansey easily walls Plasmanta and, while it fears odd options like Taunt, Encore, and Trick, [Plasmanta doesn't learn neither Trick nor Switcheroo.] Plasmanta rarely runs these moves.

**Psychic-types**: With naturally high Special Defense, Mega Latios, Hoopa-U, Mega Alakazam, and Mega Medicham can generally take Plasmanta's hits well enough to retaliate, but they hate being crippled by poison. [Put Mega Medicham on a separate sentence, as its SpD is mediocre at best and has to rely on a speed tie] Choice Scarf Tapu Lele cannot switch into Sludge Bomb but soundly OHKOs it otherwise.

**Ground-types**: Zygarde, [banned] Gliscor, and Landorus-T need to avoid Hidden Power Ice, but they can OHKO Plasmanta otherwise. Fidgit and Colossoil can take a couple of rounds of Hidden Power Ice and OHKO with Earth Power or Earthquake. However, if Plasmanta reveals to be Hidden Power Fire, these Pokemon are very safe switch-ins. Smokomodo and Gastrodon can switch into Plasmanta quite easily and force Plasmanta out as well.

**Steel-types**: Though Ferrothorn cannot break Plasmanta's Substitute easily, it can use Plasmanta as fodder for setting up hazards and isn't forced out unless Plasmanta runs Hidden Power Fire. Magearna, while usually running resisted coverage, nearly OHKOs with +1 Twinkle Tackle and 2HKOs with +1 Ice Beam. [Mention that HP Ground OHKOes too, which is run by Pain Split sets] Kitsunoh and Heatran doesn't appreciate repeated hits from Thunderbolt but can OHKO easily with Earthquake and Earth Power.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[snake_rattler, 227784]]
- Quality checked by: [[, ], [, ], [, ]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]
2/3, good job.
 
Add,Remove,Comment
[OVERVIEW]

Plasmanta's unique Electric / Poison typing seems desirable, as most Electric-types cannot easily break past Jumbao and Tangrowth. However, it requires its STAB moves and Hidden Power coverage to hit the metagame effectively. Unfortunately, Electric- and Poison-type moves are easy to play around, and Hidden Power is easy to punish due to its low base power.(Specifically mention that its STAB combination has very common immunitys, as you dont say how or why its so detreminental that its STABs are so easy to play around) Therefore, Plasmanta runs Substitute, which allows it to capitalize on its ability to force out Grass- and Fairy-types and use the appropriate coverage more easily. Despite these positives, Plasmanta is basically unviable and should not be considered for most serious teams. Without Volt Switch, Plasmanta struggles to gain momentum as well as other Electric-types like Krilowatt or Tapu Koko. It's stuck in an awkward speed tier of 100, falling short of one of its hardest counters, Pajantom. No recovery outside of Leftovers prevents even a well-played Plasmanta from consistently checking Grass- and Fairy-types like it's supposed to. Futhermore, offensive Pokemon that it would otherwise want to check such as Tapu Koko, Tornadus-T, and Magearna are special attackers, which prey on its pitiful special bulk. Finally, defensive Pokemon that Plasmanta can break open like Arghonaut, Jumbao, and Tangrowth commonly run Ground-type coverage, further limiting its switch-in opportunities.

[SET]
name: Substitute + 3 Attacks
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Thunderbolt
move 3: Sludge Bomb
move 4: Hidden Power Fire / Hidden Power Ice
item: Leftovers
ability: Storm Drain
nature: Timid
evs: 48 HP / 208 SpA / 252 Spe

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

Substitute not only eases prediction for the Plasmanta user, but it also allows Plasmanta to scout for Choice Scarf from Pokemon like Landorus-T and Volkraken. (Not sure about Volkraken here as your never clicking Sub in its face unless its confirmed choice locked into Hydro and its never gonna come in whilst you have a sub up)It also allows Plasmanta to beat Ferrothorn cleanly if it opts to run Hidden Power Fire. Thunderbolt is used over Discharge to reliably 2HKO Arghonaut and OHKO Tornadus-T. Hidden Power Fire 2HKOs Ferrothorn, which would otherwise wall it, and reliably OHKOs Kartana. Alternatively, Hidden Power Ice 2HKOs Gliscor and OHKOs most Landorus-T sets.

Set Details
========

48 HP EVs prevents Ferrothorn's Knock Off from breaking Plasmanta's Substitute. Running a Timid nature allows Plasmanta to outspeed non-Scarf Tapu Lele, offensive Jumbao, and maximum speed Landorus-T.

Usage Tips
========

Switching into Pokemon like Caribolt, Toxapex and Kartana, and Suicune (Not relevant enough sadly) ensures Plasmanta will take as little damage as possible when switching in, though it should be wary of Knock Off from Toxapex and Kartana. Once in, it is generally best to use Substitute on the forced switch to gauge the opponent's best response to Plasmanta. Also, it eases prediction, which Plasmanta would be very reliant on. Then, use the appropriate coverage move to damage the switch in or fish for poison with Sludge Bomb. However, if the opponent has a hard counter to Plasmanta like Smokomodo or Chansey, it's usually best to double switch. Opponents will likely be careful not to use Water-type moves with Choice Scarf Volkraken or Ash-Greninja when Plasmanta is alive. Use this to your advantage, limiting these powerful wallbreakers' actions.

Team Options
========

Despite the fact that Plasmanta can lure some Ground-types with Hidden Power Ice, Ground-type checks like Jumbao, Tangrowth, Tornadus-T, and Landorus-T are vital. In particular, Jumbao can provide Plasmanta Wish support, allowing Plasmanta to heal up throughout the match. (Very rarely will Plasmanta get to receive a Wish from Jumbao due to Jumbao's passivity, and its poor bulk means if it's taken a hit that requires Wish healing its likely just sack fodder) Psychic-type checks like Celesteela, Magearna, and Ferrothorn are also necessary. Hazard setters like Greninja and Landorus-T and hazard removers like Tornadus-T and Kitsunoh help Plasmanta better punish switches and alleviate its own switch in opportunities.(Separate the above into 2 separate sentences for clarity's sake) Pursuit trappers like Weavile, Mega Tyranitar, and Colossoil trap many of Plasmanta's checks like Mega Latios, Pajantom, and Tapu Lele choice-locked into Psychic. Because Plasmanta draws in Ferrothorn, Pokemon that appreciate it worn down like Tapu Lele and Magearna are useful teammates. If not running Hidden Power Ice, though, Pokemon like Heatran and Volkraken that like Ferrothorn to switch in make for good partners. Similarly, Necturna, Mega Pinsir, Gyarados, and Aurumoth appreciate Plasmanta's ability to lure out Ground-types.

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

Plasmanta can run Taunt or Encore over Substitute, but these are generally inferior because they don't ease prediction as Substitute does.

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

**Faster Attackers**: Pokemon that commonly appear on teams wear down Plasmanta quickly before it can set up a Substitute. Tornadus-T nearly KOs Plasmanta with Hurricane + Supersonic Skystrike and OHKOs with Hidden Power Ground. Syclant and Greninja demolish Plasmanta with Earthquake and Ice Beam. Choice Scarf Volkraken and Ash Greninja can use their secondary STAB moves to bypass Plasmanta's Storm Drain and KO it. Pajantom can avoid being 2HKOed by Hidden Power Ice and OHKO back with Earthquake.

**Chansey**: Chansey easily walls Plasmanta and, while it fears odd options like Taunt and Encore, Plasmanta rarely runs these moves.

**Psychic-types**: With naturally high Special Defense, Mega Latios, Hoopa-U, and Mega Alakazam can generally take Plasmanta's hits well enough to retaliate, but they hate being crippled by poison. Mega Medicham speed ties and OHKOs with Zen Headbutt but doesn't like to take repeated hits. Choice Scarf Tapu Lele cannot switch into Sludge Bomb but soundly OHKOs it otherwise.

**Ground-types**: Gliscor and Landorus-T need to avoid Hidden Power Ice, but they can OHKO Plasmanta otherwise. Fidgit and Colossoil can take a couple of rounds of Hidden Power Ice and OHKO with Earth Power or Earthquake. However, if Plasmanta reveals to be Hidden Power Fire, these Pokemon are very safe switch-ins. Smokomodo and Gastrodon can switch into Plasmanta quite easily and force Plasmanta out as well.

**Steel-types**: Though Ferrothorn cannot break Plasmanta's Substitute easily, it can use Plasmanta as fodder for setting up hazards and isn't forced out unless Plasmanta runs Hidden Power Fire. Magearna, while usually running resisted coverage, nearly OHKOs with +1 Twinkle Tackle and Hidden Power Ground and 2HKOs with +1 Ice Beam. Kitsunoh and Heatran doesn't appreciate repeated hits from Thunderbolt but can OHKO easily with Earthquake and Earth Power.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[snake_rattler, 227784]]
- Quality checked by: [[Jordy, 395754], [Mx, 298148], [, ]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]
Good stuff, 3/3 not much to change for our unviable friend
 

Astra

talk to me nice
is a Site Content Manageris a Top Social Media Contributoris a Forum Moderatoris a Community Contributoris a Top Contributoris a Top Smogon Media Contributoris a Community Leader Alumnus
amcheck :blobthumbsup:
add remove (comments)
[OVERVIEW]

Plasmanta's unique Electric / Poison typing seems desirable, as most Electric-types cannot easily break past Jumbao and Tangrowth. However, it requires its STAB moves and Hidden Power coverage to hit the metagame effectively. Unfortunately, Electric- and Poison-type moves are easy to play around due to the ubiquity of Ground- and Steel-types, and Hidden Power is easy to punish due to its low base power Base Power. Therefore, Plasmanta runs Substitute, which allows it to capitalize on its ability to force out Grass- and Fairy-types and use the appropriate coverage more easily. Despite these positives, Plasmanta is basically unviable and should not be considered for most serious teams. Without Volt Switch, Plasmanta struggles to gain momentum as well as other Electric-types like Krilowatt or Tapu Koko. It's stuck in an awkward speed Speed tier of 100, falling short of one of its hardest counters, Pajantom. No recovery outside of Leftovers prevents even a well-played Plasmanta from consistently checking Grass- and Fairy-types like it's supposed to. Furthermore, offensive Pokemon that it would otherwise want to check such as Tapu Koko, Tornadus-T, and Magearna are special attackers, which prey on its pitiful special bulk. Finally, defensive Pokemon that Plasmanta can break open like Arghonaut, Jumbao, and Tangrowth commonly run Ground-type coverage, further limiting its switch-in opportunities.

[SET]
name: Substitute + 3 Attacks
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Thunderbolt
move 3: Sludge Bomb
move 4: Hidden Power Fire / Hidden Power Ice
item: Leftovers
ability: Storm Drain
nature: Timid
evs: 48 HP / 208 SpA / 252 Spe

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

Substitute not only eases prediction for the Plasmanta user, but it also allows Plasmanta to scout for Choice Scarf from Pokemon like Landorus-T. It also allows Plasmanta to beat Ferrothorn cleanly if it opts to run Hidden Power Fire. Thunderbolt is used over Discharge to reliably 2HKO Arghonaut and OHKO Tornadus-T. Hidden Power Fire 2HKOes Ferrothorn, which would otherwise wall it, and reliably OHKOes Kartana. Alternatively, Hidden Power Ice 2HKOes Gliscor and OHKOes most Landorus-T sets.

Set Details
========

48 HP EVs prevents Ferrothorn's Knock Off from breaking Plasmanta's Substitute. Running a Timid nature allows Plasmanta to outspeed non-Choice Scarf Tapu Lele, offensive Jumbao, and maximum speed Speed Landorus-T.

Usage Tips
========

Switching into Pokemon like Caribolt, Toxapex, and Kartana ensures Plasmanta will take as little damage as possible when switching in, though it should be wary of Knock Off from Toxapex and Kartana. Once in, it is generally best to use Substitute on the forced switch to gauge the opponent's best response to Plasmanta. Also, it eases prediction, which Plasmanta would be very reliant on. Then, use the appropriate coverage move to damage the switch-in (AH) or fish for poison with Sludge Bomb. However, if the opponent has a hard counter to Plasmanta like Smokomodo or Chansey, it's usually best to double switch. Opponents will likely be careful not to use Water-type moves with Choice Scarf Volkraken or Ash-Greninja when Plasmanta is alive. Use this to your advantage, limiting these powerful wallbreakers' actions.

Team Options
========

Despite the fact that Plasmanta can lure some Ground-types with Hidden Power Ice, Ground-type checks like Jumbao, Tangrowth, Tornadus-T, and Landorus-T are vital. Psychic-type checks like Celesteela, Magearna, and Ferrothorn are also necessary. Hazard setters like Greninja and Landorus-T help Plasmanta better punish switches, and hazard removers like Tornadus-T and Kitsunoh improve its own switch in opportunities. Pursuit trappers like Weavile, Mega Tyranitar, and Colossoil trap many of Plasmanta's checks like Mega Latios, Pajantom, and Tapu Lele choice Choice-locked into Psychic. Because Plasmanta draws in Ferrothorn, Pokemon that appreciate it worn down like Tapu Lele and Magearna are useful teammates. If not running Hidden Power Ice, though, Pokemon like Heatran and Volkraken that like Ferrothorn to switch in make for good partners. Similarly, Necturna, Mega Pinsir, Gyarados, and Aurumoth appreciate Plasmanta's ability to lure out Ground-types.

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

Plasmanta can run Taunt or Encore over Substitute, but these are generally inferior because they don't ease prediction as Substitute does.

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

**Faster Attackers**: Pokemon that commonly appear on teams wear down Plasmanta quickly before it can set up a Substitute. Tornadus-T nearly KOes Plasmanta with Hurricane + Supersonic Skystrike and OHKOes with Hidden Power Ground. Syclant and Greninja demolish Plasmanta with Earthquake and Ice Beam. Choice Scarf Volkraken and Ash Greninja can use their secondary STAB moves to bypass Plasmanta's Storm Drain and KO it. Pajantom can avoid being 2HKOed by Hidden Power Ice and OHKO back with Earthquake.

**Chansey**: Chansey easily walls Plasmanta, (AC) and, (RC) while it fears odd options like Taunt and Encore, Plasmanta rarely runs these moves.

**Psychic-types**: With naturally high Special Defense, Mega Latios, Hoopa-U, and Mega Alakazam can generally take Plasmanta's hits well enough to retaliate, but they hate being crippled by poison. Mega Medicham speed Speed ties and OHKOes with Zen Headbutt but doesn't like to take repeated hits. Choice Scarf Tapu Lele cannot switch into Sludge Bomb but soundly OHKOes it Plasmanta (clarification, sounded like it can ohko sludge bomb instead of plasmanta) otherwise.

**Ground-types**: Gliscor and Landorus-T need to avoid Hidden Power Ice, but they can OHKO Plasmanta otherwise. Fidgit and Colossoil can take a couple of rounds of Hidden Power Ice and OHKO with Earth Power or Earthquake. However, if Plasmanta reveals to be Hidden Power Fire, these Pokemon are very safe switch-ins. Smokomodo and Gastrodon can switch into Plasmanta quite easily and force Plasmanta it out as well.

**Steel-types**: Though Ferrothorn cannot break Plasmanta's Substitute easily, it can use Plasmanta as fodder for setting up hazards and isn't forced out unless Plasmanta runs Hidden Power Fire. Magearna, while usually running resisted coverage, nearly OHKOes with +1 Twinkle Tackle and Hidden Power Ground and 2HKOes with +1 Ice Beam. Kitsunoh and Heatran doesn't appreciate repeated hits from Thunderbolt but can OHKO Plasmanta easily with Earthquake and Earth Power.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[snake_rattler, 227784]]
- Quality checked by: [[Jordy, 395754], [Mx, 298148], [Jho, 208105]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]
 

Rabia

is a Site Content Manageris a Top Social Media Contributoris a Community Leaderis a Community Contributoris a Smogon Discord Contributoris a CAP Contributoris a Top Tiering Contributoris a Top Contributoris a Top Smogon Media Contributoris a Battle Simulator Moderator
GP & NU Leader
add
remove
comments

[OVERVIEW]

Plasmanta can take advantage of Substitute to capitalize on its ability to force out Grass- and Fairy-types and use the appropriate coverage more easily. Additionally,(AC) Plasmanta's unique Electric / Poison typing seems desirable, as most Electric-types cannot easily break past Jumbao and Tangrowth. However, it requires its STAB moves and Hidden Power coverage to hit the metagame effectively. Unfortunately, Electric- and Poison-type moves are easy to play around due to the ubiquity of Ground- and Steel-types, and Hidden Power is easy to punish due to its low Base Power. Therefore, Plasmanta runs Substitute, which allows it to capitalize on its ability to force out Grass- and Fairy-types and use the appropriate coverage more easily.(you listed a whole lot of negatives before the following sentence, so this reordering makes the line of thought clearer) Despite these positives, Plasmanta is basically unviable and should not be considered for most serious teams. Plasmanta requires its STAB moves and Hidden Power coverage to hit the metagame effectively, and its STAB attacks are easy to play around due to the ubiquity of Ground- and Steel-types, while Hidden Power is easy to punish due to the low Base Power. Without Volt Switch, Plasmanta struggles to gain momentum as well as other Electric-types like Krilowatt or and Tapu Koko. It's stuck in an awkward Speed tier of 100, falling short of one of its hardest counters, Pajantom. No recovery outside of Leftovers prevents even a well-played Plasmanta from consistently checking Grass- and Fairy-types like it's supposed to. Furthermore, offensive Pokemon that it would otherwise want to check such as Tapu Koko, Tornadus-T, and Magearna are special attackers, which prey on its pitiful special bulk. Finally, defensive Pokemon that Plasmanta can break open like Arghonaut, Jumbao, and Tangrowth commonly run Ground-type coverage, further limiting its switch-in opportunities.

[SET]
name: Substitute + 3 Attacks
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Thunderbolt
move 3: Sludge Bomb
move 4: Hidden Power Fire / Hidden Power Ice
item: Leftovers
ability: Storm Drain
nature: Timid
evs: 48 HP / 208 SpA / 252 Spe

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

Substitute not only eases prediction for the Plasmanta user, but it also allows Plasmanta to scout for Choice Scarf from Pokemon like Landorus-T. It Substitute also allows Plasmanta to beat Ferrothorn cleanly if it opts to run Hidden Power Fire. Thunderbolt is used over Discharge to reliably 2HKO Arghonaut and OHKO Tornadus-T. Hidden Power Fire 2HKOes Ferrothorn, which would otherwise wall it, and reliably OHKOes Kartana. Alternatively, Hidden Power Ice 2HKOes Gliscor and OHKOes most Landorus-T sets.

Set Details
========

48 HP EVs prevent Ferrothorn's Knock Off from breaking Plasmanta's Substitute. Running a Timid nature allows Plasmanta to outspeed non-Choice Scarf Tapu Lele, offensive Jumbao, and maximum Speed Landorus-T.

Usage Tips
========

Switching into Pokemon like Caribolt, Toxapex, and Kartana ensures Plasmanta will take as little damage as possible when switching in, though it should be wary of Knock Off from Toxapex and Kartana. Once in, it is generally best to use Substitute on the forced switch to gauge the opponent's best response to Plasmanta. Also, it eases prediction, which Plasmanta would be very reliant on. Then, use the appropriate coverage move to damage the switch-in or fish for a poison with Sludge Bomb. However, if the opponent has a hard counter to Plasmanta like Smokomodo or Chansey, it's usually best to double switch. Opponents will likely be careful not to use Water-type moves with Choice Scarf Volkraken or Ash-Greninja when Plasmanta is alive. Use this to your advantage, limiting these powerful wallbreakers' actions.

Team Options
========

Despite the fact that Plasmanta can lure some Ground-types with Hidden Power Ice, Ground-type checks like Jumbao, Tangrowth, Tornadus-T, and Landorus-T are vital. Psychic-type checks like Celesteela, Magearna, and Ferrothorn are also necessary. Hazard Entry hazard setters like Greninja and Landorus-T help Plasmanta better punish switches, and hazard removers like Tornadus-T and Kitsunoh improve its own ability to switch in opportunities. Pursuit trappers like Weavile, Mega Tyranitar, and Colossoil trap many of Plasmanta's checks like Mega Latios, Pajantom, and Tapu Lele Choice-locked into Psychic. Because Plasmanta draws in Ferrothorn, Pokemon that appreciate it worn down like Tapu Lele and Magearna are useful teammates. If not running Hidden Power Ice Fire (Jordy approved), though, Pokemon like Heatran and Volkraken that like Ferrothorn to switch in make for good partners. Similarly, Necturna, Mega Pinsir, Gyarados, and Aurumoth appreciate Plasmanta's ability to lure out Ground-types.

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

Plasmanta can run Taunt or Encore over Substitute, but these are generally inferior because they don't ease prediction as Substitute does.

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

**Faster Attackers**: Pokemon that commonly appear on teams wear down Plasmanta quickly before it can set up a Substitute. Tornadus-T nearly KOes Plasmanta with Hurricane + Supersonic Skystrike and OHKOes with Hidden Power Ground. Syclant and Greninja demolish Plasmanta with Earthquake and Ice Beam. Choice Scarf Volkraken and Ash-Greninja(AH) and Choice Scarf Volkraken can use their secondary STAB moves to bypass Plasmanta's Storm Drain and KO it. Pajantom can avoid being 2HKOed by Hidden Power Ice and OHKO back with Earthquake.

**Chansey**: Chansey easily walls Plasmanta, and while it fears odd options like Taunt and Encore, Plasmanta rarely runs these moves.

**Psychic-types**: With naturally high Special Defense, Mega Latios, Hoopa-U, and Mega Alakazam can generally take Plasmanta's hits well enough to retaliate, but they hate being crippled by poison. Mega Medicham Speed ties and OHKOes with Zen Headbutt but doesn't like to take repeated hits. Choice Scarf Tapu Lele cannot switch into Sludge Bomb but soundly OHKOes Plasmanta otherwise.

**Ground-types**: Gliscor and Landorus-T need to avoid Hidden Power Ice, but they can OHKO Plasmanta otherwise. Fidgit and Colossoil can take a couple of rounds of Hidden Power Ice and OHKO with Earth Power or Earthquake. However, if Plasmanta reveals to be Hidden Power Fire, these Pokemon are very safe switch-ins. Smokomodo and Gastrodon can switch into Plasmanta quite easily and force it out as well.

**Steel-types**: Though Ferrothorn cannot break Plasmanta's Substitute easily, it can use Plasmanta as fodder for setting up entry hazards and isn't forced out unless Plasmanta runs Hidden Power Fire. Magearna, while usually running resisted coverage, nearly OHKOes with +1 Twinkle Tackle and Hidden Power Ground and 2HKOes with +1 Ice Beam. Kitsunoh and Heatran doesn't don't appreciate repeated hits from Thunderbolt but can OHKO Plasmanta easily with Earthquake and Earth Power.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[snake_rattler, 227784]]
- Quality checked by: [[Jordy, 395754], [Mx, 298148], [Jho, 208105]]
- Grammar checked by: [[Rabia, 336073], [, ]]

gp 1/2 once implemented
 

Lumari

empty spaces
is a Site Content Manageris a Top Social Media Contributoris a Member of Senior Staffis a Community Contributoris a Top Contributoris a Top Smogon Media Contributoris an Administrator Alumnus
TFP Leader
remove add / fix (comments); (AC=add comma; RC=remove comma; SC=semicolon)
GP 2/2
[OVERVIEW]

Plasmanta can take advantage of Substitute to capitalize on its ability to force out Grass- and Fairy-types and use the appropriate coverage more easily. Additionally, Plasmanta its unique Electric / Poison typing is unique, as most Electric-types cannot easily allows it to break past Jumbao and Tangrowth, which most Electric-types cannot do easily. Despite these positives, Plasmanta is basically unviable and should not be considered for most serious teams. Plasmanta requires its STAB moves and Hidden Power coverage to hit the metagame effectively, and its STAB attacks are easy to play around due to the ubiquity of Ground- and Steel-types, while Hidden Power is easy to punish due to the low Base Power. Without Volt Switch, Plasmanta struggles to gain momentum as well as other Electric-types like Krilowatt and Tapu Koko. It's stuck in an awkward Speed tier of 100, falling short of one of its hardest counters, Pajantom. No recovery outside of Leftovers prevents even a well-played Plasmanta from consistently checking Grass- and Fairy-types like it's supposed to. Furthermore, offensive Pokemon that it would otherwise want to check such as Tapu Koko, Tornadus-T, and Magearna are special attackers, which prey on its pitiful special bulk. Finally, defensive Pokemon that Plasmanta can break open like Arghonaut, Jumbao, and Tangrowth commonly run Ground-type coverage, further limiting its switch-in opportunities to switch in.

[SET]
name: Substitute + 3 Attacks
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Thunderbolt
move 3: Sludge Bomb
move 4: Hidden Power Fire / Hidden Power Ice
item: Leftovers
ability: Storm Drain
nature: Timid
evs: 48 HP / 208 SpA / 252 Spe

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

Substitute not only eases prediction for the Plasmanta user (RC) but it also allows Plasmanta to scout for Choice Scarf from Pokemon like Landorus-T. Substitute also allows and lets Plasmanta to beat Ferrothorn cleanly if it opts to run Hidden Power Fire. Thunderbolt is used over Discharge to reliably 2HKO Arghonaut and OHKO Tornadus-T. Hidden Power Fire 2HKOes Ferrothorn, which would otherwise wall it Plasmanta, and reliably OHKOes Kartana. Alternatively, Hidden Power Ice 2HKOes Gliscor and OHKOes most Landorus-T sets.

Set Details
========

48 HP EVs prevent Ferrothorn's Knock Off from breaking Plasmanta's Substitute. Running a Timid nature allows Plasmanta to outspeed non-Choice Scarf Tapu Lele, offensive Jumbao, and maximum Speed Landorus-T.

Usage Tips
========

Switching into Pokemon like Caribolt, Toxapex, and Kartana ensures Plasmanta will take as little damage as possible when switching in, though it should be wary of Knock Off from Toxapex and Kartana. Once in, it is generally best to use Substitute on the forced switch to gauge the opponent's best response to Plasmanta. Also, it eases prediction, which Plasmanta would be very reliant on. Then, use the appropriate coverage move to damage the switch-in or fish for a poison with Sludge Bomb. However, if the opponent has a hard counter to Plasmanta like Smokomodo or Chansey, it's usually best to double switch out. Opponents will likely be careful not to use Water-type moves with Choice Scarf Volkraken or Ash-Greninja when Plasmanta is alive. Use this to your advantage, limiting these powerful wallbreakers' actions.

Team Options
========

Despite the fact that Plasmanta can lure some Ground-types and take them out with Hidden Power Ice, Ground-type checks like Jumbao, Tangrowth, Tornadus-T, and Landorus-T are vital. Psychic-type checks like Celesteela, Magearna, and Ferrothorn are also necessary. Entry hazard setters like Greninja and Landorus-T help Plasmanta better punish switches, and hazard removers like Tornadus-T and Kitsunoh improve its ability to switch in. Pursuit trappers like Weavile, Mega Tyranitar, and Colossoil trap many of Plasmanta's checks like Mega Latios, Pajantom, and Tapu Lele Choice-locked into Psychic. Because Plasmanta draws in Ferrothorn, Pokemon that appreciate it worn down like Tapu Lele and Magearna are useful teammates. If Plasmanta is not running Hidden Power Fire, though, Pokemon like Heatran and Volkraken that like Ferrothorn to switch in make for good partners. Similarly, Necturna, Mega Pinsir, Gyarados, and Aurumoth appreciate Plasmanta's ability to lure out Ground-types.

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

Plasmanta can run Taunt or Encore over Substitute, but these are generally inferior because they don't ease prediction as Substitute does.

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

**Faster Attackers**: Pokemon that commonly appear on teams wear down Plasmanta quickly before it can set up a Substitute. Tornadus-T nearly KOes Plasmanta with Hurricane + Supersonic Skystrike and OHKOes with Hidden Power Ground. Syclant and Greninja demolish Plasmanta with Earthquake and Ice Beam. Ash-Greninja and Choice Scarf Volkraken can use their secondary STAB moves to bypass Plasmanta's Storm Drain and KO it. Pajantom can avoid being 2HKOed by Hidden Power Ice and OHKO back with Earthquake.

**Chansey**: Chansey easily walls Plasmanta, and while it fears odd options like Taunt and Encore, Plasmanta rarely runs these moves.

**Psychic-types**: With naturally high Special Defense, Mega Latios, Hoopa-U, and Mega Alakazam can generally take Plasmanta's hits well enough to retaliate, but they hate being crippled by poison. Mega Medicham Speed ties with Plasmanta and OHKOes it with Zen Headbutt but doesn't like to take repeated hits. Choice Scarf Tapu Lele cannot switch into Sludge Bomb but soundly OHKOes Plasmanta otherwise.

**Ground-types**: Gliscor and Landorus-T need to avoid Hidden Power Ice, but they can OHKO Plasmanta otherwise. Fidgit and Colossoil can take a couple of rounds of Hidden Power Ice and OHKO with Earth Power or Earthquake. However, if Plasmanta reveals to be Hidden Power Fire, these Pokemon are very safe switch-ins. Smokomodo and Gastrodon can switch into Plasmanta quite easily and force it out as well.

**Steel-types**: Though Ferrothorn cannot break Plasmanta's Substitute easily, it can use Plasmanta as fodder for setting up entry hazards and isn't forced out unless Plasmanta runs Hidden Power Fire. Magearna, while usually running resisted coverage, nearly OHKOes with +1 Twinkle Tackle and Hidden Power Ground and 2HKOes with +1 Ice Beam. Kitsunoh and Heatran don't appreciate repeated hits from Thunderbolt but can OHKO Plasmanta easily with Earthquake and Earth Power.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[snake_rattler, 227784]]
- Quality checked by: [[Jordy, 395754], [Mx, 298148], [Jho, 208105]]
- Grammar checked by: [[Rabia, 336073], [, ]]
 

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