Gen 1 Raticate (UU) [QC 2/2] [GP 2/2] [DONE]

[Plague von Karma]

This is from a draft that was kept prior to the launch of the RBY UU Analysis Project.

[OVERVIEW]
Raticate is a bit of a mixed bag. Its unique access to Super Fang allows it to weaken a Pokemon for threats like Dodrio to clean up later or outright KO foes itself with Hyper Beam. Not only that, Raticate also has an interesting special movepool that it can tap into akin to Persian, making it possible to fine-tune for a team. Raticate is also in a very unique Speed tier, being just above Haunter, and is immune to Body Slam paralysis thanks to being a Normal-type. Raticate's 18.97% critical hit rate adds significant volatility to many matchups as well, making it difficult to switch into when also considering Super Fang. These factors often let Raticate score at least one Super Fang before it goes down, which is more than enough for its teammates to break through and wreak havoc. All of these factors enable Raticate to fulfil a supportive role for its team while remaining a decent sweeper in its own right.

However, Raticate faces some stiff competition from Kangaskhan and Persian, which possess much better stats, coverage, and general offensive potential. In addition, Raticate has poor special bulk, with attacks like Tentacruel's Surf being a guaranteed 2HKO. This makes it a nightmare to bring in without heavy support or one-for-one trades. Furthermore, Raticate relies heavily on its Speed to make progress, making paralysis a death sentence due to its fragility. Overall, this makes Raticate a high-risk, high-reward Pokemon.

[SET]
name: Super Fang
move 1: Super Fang
move 2: Hyper Beam
move 3: Body Slam
move 4: Blizzard

[SET COMMENTS]
Set Description
=========
Super Fang is the main reason you would use Raticate, as halving a foe's HP is extremely useful for supporting a team, and without it, Raticate is outclassed by Persian. Hyper Beam is used alongside Super Fang to KO Hypno most of the time as well as take out threats like Tentacruel, (RC) and Dodrio. It also allows Raticate to bring down a paralyzed team late-game. Body Slam reliably dents threats and spreads paralysis. Blizzard is used to 2HKO Dragonite or KO it after a Super Fang on the switch in.

Raticate can be used early-game thanks to the sheer utility of Super Fang, dealing significant damage to a foe and likely putting it into KO range for Raticate's teammates. Raticate is best used mid- or late-game, though, where Super Fang is most likely to help its teammates. Raticate is best switched in on passive foes that won't damage it, such as those immobilized by Wrap or about to use Recover or Rest. Smart double switching is also a good way to bring it in. However, bringing in Raticate to revenge kill a threat isn't out of the question either, especially if that threat is a faster Pokemon that has been bogged down with paralysis. Raticate should be playing hit-and-run first and foremost, as not only is it frail, but landing a Super Fang is more than enough to leave foes open to exploitation by Raticate's teammates anyway.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
Bubble Beam can replace Blizzard to 2HKO Golem or KO after a Super Fang on the switch. In addition, Bubble Beam's chance to lower Speed can let Raticate beat normally faster Pokemon that switch in expecting a Blizzard, such as Tentacruel. Without Blizzard, though, Raticate doesn't have a good way of stopping Dragonite from setting up, so consider running Toxic over Body Slam if you use Bubble Beam. Thunder can be used for a better matchup against Gyarados, possessing a guaranteed KO after Super Fang. It has little use outside of this, however, as Omastar and Vaporeon are only 2HKOed after Super Fang and will always win prolonged interactions. In addition, replacing Blizzard with Thunder comes at the cost of losing against Dragonite unless Toxic is used. However, it is possible for Raticate to run two special moves at once—usually Blizzard and either Thunder or Bubble Beam—though this comes at the cost of Body Slam's consistency and potentially game-changing paralysis chance.

Checks and Counters
===================
**Haunter**: Raticate can still halve Haunter's HP with Super Fang, but Blizzard does extremely poor damage. On the other hand, Haunter can 3HKO Raticate with Thunderbolt or put it to sleep with Hypnosis. Raticate will sometimes win one-on-one thanks to its Speed and Super Fang, but this is not consistent enough to recommend.

**Omastar**: Omastar resists Raticate's STAB moves, doesn't get OHKOed after a Super Fang, and easily 2HKOes Raticate with Hydro Pump. Omastar can switch in on a Hyper Beam, forcing Raticate out after it recharges and inflicting significant damage in the process. Raticate can use Thunder to try and get a better matchup, but Omastar takes no more than 36.1%, thus still winning one-on-one unless paralysis or critical hits are involved.

**Paralysis**: Raticate's best qualities are its Speed and access to Super Fang, which forces slower threats to take significant damage before they can land a hit. Ergo, paralysis is a massive threat to its success, and Raticate should avoid chipping threats that can paralyze it. Paralysis's Speed drop exposes Raticate's extreme fragility while further reducing the consistency of Super Fang, making it effectively dead weight in many situations. Threats like Hypno, Tangela, Dragonite, and Electabuzz that can paralyze Raticate force it out unless they're chipped already. Once Raticate has scored a KO, opponents often bring these Pokemon in, causing the Raticate user to lose a significant amount of momentum. It should be noted that Hypno and paralyzed Electabuzz can't switch into Raticate, as Super Fang + Hyper Beam has a favorable chance to KO them outright. Dragonite also can't switch into Raticate, as Blizzard will KO it after Super Fang.

**Bulky Water-types**: Bulky Water-types like Tentacruel and Vaporeon possess very effective ways to force out Raticate. Tentacruel can switch in on Super Fang if it isn't paralyzed and subsequently scare Raticate out with a 2HKO from Surf. However, Tentacruel is threatened with an outright KO from Super Fang + Hyper Beam. Vaporeon, on the other hand, survives Hyper Beam after a Super Fang and can still 2HKO Raticate with Surf.

**Golem**: Golem's Rock typing lets it easily switch in on Raticate's Hyper Beam and 2HKO it with Earthquake. Should Raticate lack a super effective move against Golem, it is very likely to lose the matchup. However, after a Super Fang, Raticate has a 41% chance to KO Golem with Blizzard and KOes it outright with Bubble Beam.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Plague von Karma, 236353]]
- Quality checked by: [[phoopes, 96315], [Sevi 7, 505149]]
- Grammar checked by: [[Rabia, 336073], [A Cake Wearing A Hat, 388157]]

 

[phoopes]

Just checked this and looks really good overall. Only little things that I can think of:

Under Other Options, I think mentioning Gyarados as a reason to run Thunderbolt might be better than Omastar. As you say in Checks and Counters, Omastar wins the 1 vs 1 from full because Hydro Pump 2HKOs whereas Super Fang -> Thunderbolt does not. Meanwhile, Super Fang -> Thunderbolt gives you a 59% chance to 2HKO Gyarados whereas you miss out on that 2HKO with Super Fang -> Hyper Beam.

Also I believe your Electabuzz calc is off. When I ran it I got a 28.7% chance to 2HKO instead of the ~23% that you mention:

Electabuzz Thunderbolt vs. Raticate: 141-166 (45 - 53%) -- 28.7% chance to 2HKO

---

Overall, only those minor changes are needed IMO. QC 1/2

 

[Plague von Karma]

Just checked this and looks really good overall. Only little things that I can think of:

Under Other Options, I think mentioning Gyarados as a reason to run Thunderbolt might be better than Omastar. As you say in Checks and Counters, Omastar wins the 1 vs 1 from full because Hydro Pump 2HKOs whereas Super Fang -> Thunderbolt does not. Meanwhile, Super Fang -> Thunderbolt gives you a 59% chance to 2HKO Gyarados whereas you miss out on that 2HKO with Super Fang -> Hyper Beam.

Also I believe your Electabuzz calc is off. When I ran it I got a 28.7% chance to 2HKO instead of the ~23% that you mention:

Electabuzz Thunderbolt vs. Raticate: 141-166 (45 - 53%) -- 28.7% chance to 2HKO

---

Overall, only those minor changes are needed IMO. QC 1/2

Implemented this, thank you so much!

 

[Volk]

Time for Pre-QC assessment:

Grammar Comments:

allowing threats like Dodrio to clean them up later

I'd replace threats with "sweepers" or maybe "breakers." I would probably recommend adding Dugtrio alongside Dodrio as well, because Dugtrio is the tier's biggest sweeper.

which possess much higher stats, coverage and general offensive potential.

"which possess much higher stats, wider coverage, a greater offensive potential."

with attacks

"with common attacks"

This makes it a nightmare to bring in without heavy support or one-for-one trades.

This is a confusing sentence. Maybe something simpler like "It is very difficult to switch in without support from Wrap or by sacrificing another Pokemon." I'm not too sure what you meant by this sentence, so if that's not what you meant, consider clarifying.

due to it being fragile enough in the first place.

Cut "enough."

Super Fang is the main reason you would use Raticate,

According to GP checks I've seen, they don't seem to like using "you." Maybe replace "you would" with "to" or something. Not sure, because the sentence doesn't bother me personally.

spreading paralysis and denting threats.

"...denting threats outside of Hyper Beam range."

However, revenge-killing isn’t out of the question either, especially if a faster Pokemon have been bogged down with paralysis.

I don't know what this sentence means after the word "especially."


Meta Comments:

Raticate is best used in the mid to late-game, where it’s most likely to get mileage out of Super Fang for its teammates.

Raticate is a lot like Explosion in OU. You get by far the most value from the Pokemon/move if you use it very early in the game, as the move is hardest to predict and deals the most damage. However, if you go too early, you lose out on any utility the Pokemon would have otherwise had. Ultimately, the takeaway here is Raticate is definitely useable in the early game. Super Fang is most useful when the opposing team has high HP. If you plan on sweeping with Raticate, like sure it can do that, but it tends to make way for things like Kangaskhan or Dugtrio rather than making way for itself. You acknowledge this in the opening.

Thunderbolt can be used for a better matchup against Gyarados, with it having a 59% chance to OHKO after Super Fang. It has little use outside of this, however, with even Pokemon like Omastar being able to win prolonged interactions. BubbleBeam can be used to 2HKO Golem or KO after a Super Fang on switch-in, but in a similar fashion to Thunderbolt, this is the only time it excels over Blizzard.

Toxic should be mentioned in Other Options. Otherwise Dragonite can switch in nearly for free after a KO, set up Agility, and... blah blah blah, you know the drill.

**Golem**: If Raticate doesn’t have Bubble Beam, it has a lot of trouble winning against Golem, even after a Super Fang. It takes below half HP from Blizzard, which gives it ample opportunity to ruin Raticate with Earthquake or even trade with Explosion. Generally, Raticate is forced out by Golem.

Not really sure if Golem is really a check or counter. Blizzard can 2HKO and it is nearly guaranteed to do so if Golem has taken any damage or switches into Raticate. The last sentence in particular seems a little weird to me. I'm not sure if Golem has to be cut from the list, as it can wall out some sets, technically can come in after a KO, and can catch Hyper Beam, but it definitely shouldn't be the first check listed. Either Haunter or Omastar should have that honor.

Checks and Counters

Maybe include Dragonite? It can stomach Super Fang + Hyper Beam and threaten to use either Thunder Wave or Agility.

I think that's it for now. I'll read it over again soon and probably suggest a few more edits. After that, that'll be a QC from me.

 

[Sevi 7]

Since Volk thought I should try to QC this I took a look, and I have to say that this is really good. A couple of things I think need to be mentioned.

• Raticate is immune to Body Slam paralysis and this does help it switch in
• Super Fang's less than stellar accuracy which sometimes means Rat isn't doing anything.
• Like Volk talked about, Raticate can work in the early game to carve the way for other mons. I think not mentioning anything it helps is better, since rat generally doesn't have any designated teammates and can help normals like dodrio or persian, but also other mons like nite, depending on what you're breaking.
• For other options, mention Thunder if youre running it for Gyara since Fang + Thunder has a better chance to kill Gyara than Bolt.
• Bubblebeam's speed drop is a huge selling point for it, and makes it a legitimate option for Rat.
• Double special Rat can work and I think that should be mentioned.
• Also put down toxic, like Volk said.
• I agree with Volk and I don't think that Golem is really that solid of a check. It switches into normal attacks but a crit Blizzard or Bubblebeam can OHKO. Haunter and Omastar are much better checks.
• Bulky waters in general make good checks to rat. Tent can switch into Super Fang, scare it out and rest up later. Vaproeon can't be 2HKO without a crit, while Vap 2HKOs Rat
• I think replacing Buzz and Raichu with paralyzers is better since T Wave Nite, Hypno and Tangela all do pretty much the same thing. Take a hit, in exchange for paralysis and either switch out or sac themselves

 

[Plague von Karma]

good opinions

Very good points, implemented them to the best of my ability. Mind checking again?

 

[Sevi 7]

Don't mention Sandslash when talking about Blizzard in the set, it hasn't been used in a serious game all year.

For other options, i'd change the order.
Bubblebeam should be the first option. You're really underselling Bubblebeam still. That speed drop is huge. Hitting something faster, like Tent, and getting that speed drop means that Rat is now in a position to KO, instead of being KOed. If it weren't for DNite, I'd probably even consider it the better option.
Next should be toxic, because it's the second best alternative choice, but also because if you're dropping Blizz for Bubblebeam you should absolutely consider running toxic over B Slam (and that's good to mention too, now that I think about it.)
- Also you mentioned Thunderbolt when talking about it, but I think you meant thunder.
Finally have Thunder. Also Thunder is either going to be replacing Blizzard or Body Slam. You mentioned Hyper Beam for double Special but that will never happen, Hyper Beam is too important. Also maybe note that if you're dropping Blizz for Thunder, then you can't do anything to stop Nite, unless you also run Toxic. Overall thunder isn't that recommended.

In the paralysis checks and counters, I think making it clear that Blizzard can kill after a Super Fang would be good.

 

[Plague von Karma]

snippety snip snip

Implemented this, and took the opportunity to note its special movepool in the overview.

 

[Volk]

Quick comments:

However, revenge-killing isn’t out of the question either, especially if a faster Pokemon have been bogged down with paralysis.

I think it's the word "a" that's confusing me here. I think you can just cut it. I'm still not certain what this sentence means. Please explain or fix.

Once Raticate has scored a KO, it isn't uncommon to see these Pokemon bought in thereafter, causing the player to lose a significant amount of momentum.

Replace "bought" with "brought."

**Golem**: Golem's Normal typing gives it a fair opportunity to switch in on Raticate's Hyper Beam and 2HKO it with Earthquake.

Happens to the best of us. (Replace "Normal" with "Rock.")

Honestly though, I think this is pretty much ready for a QC. Not sure if it'll be me or Sevi, but I think this is nearly done. Just want to see these changes implemented, I'll read it one more time, and probably QC right there.

 

[Plague von Karma]

snip

Ah, crap, of course I did that with Golem...

Implemented!

 

[Sevi 7]

BubbleBeam can replace Blizzard to 2HKO Golem or KO after a Super Fang on switch-in, and in addition, BubbleBeam's Speed drop lets Raticate beat normally faster mons who are switching-in expecting a Blizzard, such as , Tentacruel. Without Blizzard though, Raticate doesn't have a good way of stopping Dragonite from setting up, making Toxic over Body Slam a considerable option.

How about something like this for it instead?

Bubblebeam is the last thing. We clear that up and I'll QC.

 

[Plague von Karma]

snip

Put the quote over the previous BubbleBeam explanation with a few grammar changes. Seem good?

 

[Sevi 7]

QC approved

 

[Adeleine]

AM GP :)
Add/Fix Remove Comment
(AC)/(RC): Add/Remove Comma
(RA): Replace ’ apostrophe with '

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[OVERVIEW]

Raticate is a bit of a mixed bag. Its unique access to Super Fang allows it to bring a Pokemon down to half HP, allowing weaken a Pokemon for threats like Dodrio to clean them up later, or alternatively, outright KO them foes itself with Hyper Beam itself. Not only that, Raticate has an interesting special movepool that it can tap into akin to Persian, making it possible to fine-tune for a team. Raticate is also in a very unique Speed tier, (capitalization) being just above Haunter while being Haunter, and is immune to Body Slam paralysis thanks to being Normal-type. Raticate's 18.97% critical hit rate adds significant volatility to many matchups as well, making it difficult to switch into when also considering Super Fang as well. These factors often let Raticate score a Super Fang at least once at least one Super Fang before it goes down, which is more than enough for its teammates to break through and wreak havoc. This enables Raticate to fulfil a supportive role for its team while remaining a decent sweeper in its own right.

However, Raticate faces some stiff competition with from other Normal-types, like Kangaskhan and Persian, which possess much higher better stats, coverage(AC), and general offensive potential. In addition, Raticate is very frail on the special (Ofc I know why you capitalized, but "on the special side" is a phrase fine as is to reference taking special attacks. Contrast with "Raticate is very frail as concerns its Special" which would need the capitalization) side, with attacks like Tentacruel’s Surf being a guaranteed 2HKO. This makes it a nightmare to bring in without heavy support or one-for-one trades. It should be noted that Super Fang is a bit inconsistent as well, possessing 89.5% accuracy, which can leave Raticate open to attacks. Furthermore, Raticate relies heavily on its Speed to make progress, making paralysis a death sentence due to it being fragile enough in the first place. its fragility. Overall, this makes Raticate a high-risk, high-reward Pokemon that can definitely shine if given the right opportunity.

[SET]
name: Super Fang
move 1: Super Fang
move 2: Hyper Beam
move 3: Body Slam
move 4: Blizzard

[SET COMMENTS]
Set Description
=========

Super Fang is the main reason you would use Raticate, as halving an opponent’s a foe's HP is extremely useful for supporting a team. Thus, using it is mandatory, as it’s otherwise team, and without it Raticate is outclassed by Persian. Hyper Beam is used alongside Super Fang to KO threats like Tentacruel, Dodrio and even Hypno 71.8% of the time. This It also allows Raticate to bring down a paralyzed team in the late-game. Body Slam gives Raticate a reliable STAB to make use of, spreading paralysis and denting threats. reliably dents threats and spreads paralysis. Blizzard rounds out the set to 2HKO Dragonite or otherwise KO it after a Super Fang on switch-in. the switch in.

Raticate can be used early-game thanks to the sheer utility of Super Fang, dealing significant chip damage to a foe and likely putting it into KO range for Raticate's teammates. Raticate It is best used in the mid to mid- or late-game, though(AC), where it’s most likely to get mileage out of Super Fang for Super Fang is most likely to help its teammates. Raticate is best switched in on passive foes that won't damage it, such as those immobilized by Wrap or Pokemon that are about to use Recover or Rest. Smart double-switching is also a good way to bring it in. However, bringing in Raticate to revenge kill a threat isn’t out of the question either, especially it's if that threat is a faster Pokemon that has been bogged down with paralysis. Raticate should be playing hit-and-run first and foremost, as not only is it frail, but Super Fang’s ability to halve a foe’s current HP landing a Super Fang is more than enough to leave them foes open to exploitation by Raticate(RA)'s teammates anyway. Playing to this is crucial to making good use of Raticate's strengths.

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

BubbleBeam can replace Blizzard to 2HKO Golem or KO after a Super Fang on switch-in. on the switch in. In addition, BubbleBeam's Speed drop lets chance to lower Speed can let (I assume this makes sense content-wise?) Raticate beat normally faster Pokemon that switch-in switch in expecting a Blizzard, such as Tentacruel. Without Blizzard(AC), though, Raticate doesn't have a good way of stopping Dragonite from setting up, making so consider running Toxic over Body Slam a considerable option. Thunder can be used for a better matchup against Gyarados, possessing a guaranteed OHKO after Super Fang. It has little use outside of this, however, as Omastar and Vaporeon are only 2HKOed after Super Fang (RC) and will always win prolonged interactions. In addition, replacing Blizzard with Thunder comes at the cost of losing against Dragonite unless Toxic is used. However, it is possible for Raticate to run two special moves at once - usually once—usually Blizzard and either Thunder or BubbleBeam - though BubbleBeam—though this comes at the cost of Body Slam's consistency and potentially game-changing paralysis chance.

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

**Haunter**: Raticate can still halve Haunter(RA)'s HP with Super Fang, but Blizzard does a paltry ~19.4% on average. On the other hand, Haunter can 3HKO with Thunderbolt or put Raticate to sleep with Hypnosis. It can certainly win the interaction Raticate will sometimes win one-on-one thanks to its Speed and Super Fang, but it’s this is not consistent enough to recommend.

**Omastar**: Omastar resists Raticate's STABs, STAB moves, doesn't get OHKOed (clarity) after a Super Fang, and possesses a guaranteed 2HKO with in Hydro Pump. Should it switch in on a Hyper Beam, Raticate will be forced out once it can move again while likely taking It can switch in on a Hyper Beam, forcing Raticate out after it recharges and inflicting significant damage in the process. Raticate can use Thunder to try and get a better matchup, but Omastar takes no more than 36.1%, thus still winning the interaction one-on-one unless paralysis is involved. It should be noted that Raticate's critical hit rate can situationally allow it to muscle past, though.

**Paralysis**: Raticate's best qualities are its Speed and access to Super Fang, which forces slower threats to take significant damage before they can land a hit. Ergo, paralysis is a massive threat to its success, and Raticate should avoid chipping threats that can induce paralyze it. A drop in Speed Paralysis's Speed drop exposes Raticate's extreme fragility while further reducing the consistency of Super Fang, making it effectively dead weight in many situations. Threats like Hypno, Tangela, Dragonite(AC), and Electabuzz are all fairly efficient at utilizing this tactic, forcing that can paralyze Raticate force it out unless they're chipped already. Once Raticate has scored a KO, it isn't uncommon to see these Pokemon brought in thereafter, causing the player opponents often bring these Pokemon in, causing the Raticate user to lose a significant amount of momentum. It should be noted that Hypno and paralyzed Electabuzz can't switch in to do this, as Raticate can follow up a Super Fang with Hyper Beam, which has a favourable chance switch into Raticate, as Super Fang + Hyper Beam has a favorable chance (I assumed you meant "they can't be brought into Raticate as it uses a move", and that you didn't mean "they can't be brought in after Raticate KOs something to paralyze it". Let me know if I'm wrong though.) to KO them outright. Dragonite will also lose the interaction switching also can't switch into Raticate, as Blizzard will KO it after Super Fang.

**Bulky Water-types**: Bulky Water-types like Tentacruel and Vaporeon possess very effective ways to force out Raticate. Tentacruel can switch in on Super Fang if it isn't paralyzed (RC) and subsequently scare Raticate out with a potential (I assume it's guaranteed if crit can OHKO?) 2HKO from Surf, which can OHKO with a critical hit. However, Tentacruel is threatened with an outright KO from Hyper Beam if Super Fang hits prior, which can be game-changing. Super Fang + Hyper Beam. Vaporeon, on the other hand, survives Hyper Beam after a Super Fang and can still 2HKO Raticate with Surf.

**Golem**: Golem's Rock typing gives it a fair opportunity to lets it easily (I assume this makes sense content-wise) switch in on Raticate's Hyper Beam and 2HKO it with Earthquake. Should Raticate lack a super-effective move against it, it's super effective move against Golem, it is very likely to lose the matchup. However, after a Super Fang, Raticate has a 41% chance to KO Golem with Blizzard, or lose outright to BubbleBeam. Blizzard and KOes it outright with BubbleBeam.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Plague von Karma, 236353]]
- Quality checked by: [[phoopes, 96315], [Sevi 7, 505149]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]

Small note:

According to GP checks I've seen, they don't seem to like using "you."

The deal with "you" is it needs to refer specifically to the player, not to the analysis Pokemon. E.g. "With Hyper Beam, you can OHKO Pikachu." is not right. No player is shooting a Hyper Beam from their body, so "you" should be replaced. But like "the reason you (implied: the teambuilding player) should use Raticate" should be fine.

 

[Plague von Karma]

cool beans things

Implemented! Thank you so much!

 

[Rabia]

add remove comments

gp

[OVERVIEW]

Raticate is a bit of a mixed bag. Its unique access to Super Fang allows it to weaken a Pokemon for threats like Dodrio to clean up later (RC) or alternatively (RC) outright KO foes itself with Hyper Beam. Not only that, Raticate also has an interesting special movepool that it can tap into akin to Persian, making it possible to fine-tune for a team. Raticate is also in a very unique Speed tier, being just above Haunter, and is immune to Body Slam paralysis thanks to being a Normal-type. Raticate's 18.97% critical hit rate adds significant volatility to many matchups as well, making it difficult to switch into when also considering Super Fang. These factors often let Raticate score at least one Super Fang before it goes down, which is more than enough for its teammates to break through and wreak havoc,(period -> comma) This enables and enable Raticate to fulfil a supportive role for its team while remaining a decent sweeper in its own right.

However, Raticate faces some stiff competition from other Normal-types (RC) like Kangaskhan and Persian, which possess much better stats, coverage, and general offensive potential. In addition, Raticate is very frail on the special side has poor special bulk, with attacks like Tentacruel’s Tentacruel's Surf being a guaranteed 2HKO. This makes it a nightmare to bring in without heavy support or one-for-one trades. It should be noted that Super Fang is a bit inconsistent as well, possessing 89.5% accuracy (RC) which can leave Raticate open to attacks (maybe I'm just missing something here, but I don't see the correlation between an attack being able to miss and Raticate being vulnerable to being hit. Even if you land a Super Fang, you're still getting hit; it's not like landing gives Raticate 100% dodge chance for a turn. Feel free to explain to me the reasoning behind this statement.). Furthermore, Raticate relies heavily on its Speed to make progress, making paralysis a death sentence due to its fragility. Overall, this makes Raticate a high-risk, high-reward Pokemon.

[SET]
name: Super Fang
move 1: Super Fang
move 2: Hyper Beam
move 3: Body Slam
move 4: Blizzard

[SET COMMENTS]
Set Description
=========

Super Fang is the main reason you would use Raticate, as halving a foe's HP is extremely useful for supporting a team, and without it, Raticate is outclassed by Persian. Hyper Beam is used alongside Super Fang to KO threats like Tentacruel, Dodrio,(AC) and even Hypno 71.8% of the time. It also allows Raticate to bring down a paralyzed team in the late-game. Body Slam reliably dents threats and spreads paralysis. Blizzard rounds out the set to 2HKO Dragonite or KO it after a Super Fang on the switch in.

Raticate can be used early-game thanks to the sheer utility of Super Fang, dealing significant chip damage to a foe and likely putting it into KO range for Raticate's teammates. It is best used in the mid- or late-game, though, where Super Fang is most likely to help its teammates. Raticate is best switched in on passive foes that won't damage it, such as those immobilized by Wrap or about to use Recover or Rest. Smart double switching(RH) is also a good way to bring it in. However, bringing in Raticate to revenge kill a threat isn’t isn't out of the question either, especially if that threat is a faster Pokemon that has been bogged down with paralysis. Raticate should be playing hit-and-run first and foremost, as not only is it frail, but landing a Super Fang is more than enough to leave foes open to exploitation by Raticate's teammates anyway.

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

Bubble Beam(I THINK we use modern spelling even for old generations; if you've been told otherwise before then obviously ignore this, but I'm not gonna comment on all the instances of me adding the space.) can replace Blizzard to 2HKO Golem or KO after a Super Fang on the switch in. In addition, Bubble Beam's chance to lower Speed can let Raticate beat normally faster Pokemon that switch in expecting a Blizzard, such as Tentacruel. Without Blizzard, though, Raticate doesn't have a good way of stopping Dragonite from setting up, so consider running Toxic over Body Slam if you use Bubble Beam. Thunder can be used for a better matchup against Gyarados, possessing a guaranteed OHKO after Super Fang. It has little use outside of this, however, as Omastar and Vaporeon are only 2HKOed after Super Fang and will always win prolonged interactions. In addition, replacing Blizzard with Thunder comes at the cost of losing against Dragonite unless Toxic is used. However, it is possible for Raticate to run two special moves at once—usually Blizzard and either Thunder or Bubble Beam—though this comes at the cost of Body Slam's consistency and potentially game-changing paralysis chance.

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

**Haunter**: Raticate can still halve Haunter's HP with Super Fang, but Blizzard does a paltry ~(tilde isn't useful) 19.4% on average. On the other hand, Haunter can 3HKO with Thunderbolt or put Raticate to sleep with Hypnosis. Raticate will sometimes win one-on-one thanks to its Speed and Super Fang, but this is not consistent enough to recommend.

**Omastar**: Omastar resists Raticate's STAB moves, doesn't get OHKOed after a Super Fang, and possesses a guaranteed 2HKO in Hydro Pump. It can switch in on a Hyper Beam, forcing Raticate out after it recharges and inflicting significant damage in the process. Raticate can use Thunder to try and get a better matchup, but Omastar takes no more than 36.1%, thus still winning one-on-one unless paralysis is involved. It should be noted that Raticate's critical hit rate can situationally allow it to muscle past, though.

**Paralysis**: Raticate's best qualities are its Speed and access to Super Fang, which forces slower threats to take significant damage before they can land a hit. Ergo, paralysis is a massive threat to its success, and Raticate should avoid chipping threats that can paralyze it. Paralysis's Speed drop exposes Raticate's extreme fragility while further reducing the consistency of Super Fang, making it effectively dead weight in many situations. Threats like Hypno, Tangela, Dragonite(AC), and Electabuzz that can paralyze Raticate force it out unless they're chipped already. Once Raticate has scored a KO, opponents often bring these Pokemon in, causing the Raticate user to lose a significant amount of momentum. It should be noted that Hypno and paralyzed Electabuzz can't switch into Raticate, as Super Fang + Hyper Beam has a favorable chance to KO them outright. Dragonite also can't switch into Raticate, as Blizzard will KO it after Super Fang.

**Bulky Water-types**: Bulky Water-types like Tentacruel and Vaporeon possess very effective ways to force out Raticate. Tentacruel can switch in on Super Fang if it isn't paralyzed and subsequently scare Raticate out with a 2HKO from Surf, which can OHKO with a critical hit. However, Tentacruel is threatened with an outright KO from Super Fang + Hyper Beam. Vaporeon, on the other hand, survives Hyper Beam after a Super Fang and can still 2HKO Raticate with Surf.

**Golem**: Golem's Rock typing lets it easily switch in on Raticate's Hyper Beam and 2HKO it with Earthquake. Should Raticate lack a super effective move against Golem, it is very likely to lose the matchup. However, after a Super Fang, Raticate has a 41% chance to KO Golem with Blizzard and KOes it outright with Bubble Beam.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Plague von Karma, 236353]]
- Quality checked by: [[phoopes, 96315], [Sevi 7, 505149]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]

"on the special side" is bad phrasing akin to people saying things like "Chansey has good bulk on both the physical and special sides thanks to Eviolite"

also remember when using — or any variant thereof that the surrounding text should connect on each side, i.e. blah—blah

gp 1/whatever when done

 

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[OVERVIEW]
Raticate is a bit of a mixed bag. Its unique access to Super Fang allows it to weaken a Pokemon for threats like Dodrio to clean up later or outright KO foes itself with Hyper Beam. Not only that, Raticate also has an interesting special movepool that it can tap into akin to Persian, making it possible to fine-tune for a team. Raticate is also in a very unique Speed tier, being just above Haunter, and is immune to Body Slam paralysis thanks to being a Normal-type. Raticate's 18.97% critical hit rate adds significant volatility to many matchups as well, making it difficult to switch into when also considering Super Fang. These factors often let Raticate score at least one Super Fang before it goes down, which is more than enough for its teammates to break through and wreak havoc, (RC) and. (AP) All of these factors enable Raticate to fulfil a supportive role for its team while remaining a decent sweeper in its own right.

However, Raticate faces some stiff competition from other Normal-types like Kangaskhan and Persian, which possess much better stats, coverage, and general offensive potential. In addition, Raticate has poor special bulk, with attacks like Tentacruel's Surf being a guaranteed 2HKO. This makes it a nightmare to bring in without heavy support or one-for-one trades. It should be noted that Super Fang is a bit inconsistent as well, possessing 89.5% accuracy. Furthermore, Raticate relies heavily on its Speed to make progress, making paralysis a death sentence due to its fragility. Overall, this makes Raticate a high-risk, high-reward Pokemon.

[SET]
name: Super Fang
move 1: Super Fang
move 2: Hyper Beam
move 3: Body Slam
move 4: Blizzard

[SET COMMENTS]
Set Description
=========
Super Fang is the main reason you would use Raticate, as halving a foe's HP is extremely useful for supporting a team, and without it, Raticate is outclassed by Persian. Hyper Beam is used alongside Super Fang to KO Hypno most of the time as well as take out threats like Tentacruel, (RC) and Dodrio, (RC) and even Hypno 71.8% of the time. It also allows Raticate to bring down a paralyzed team late-game. Body Slam reliably dents threats and spreads paralysis. Blizzard rounds out the set is used to 2HKO Dragonite or KO it after a Super Fang on the switch in.

Raticate can be used early-game thanks to the sheer utility of Super Fang, dealing significant chip damage to a foe and likely putting it into KO range for Raticate's teammates. It Raticate is best used mid- or late-game, though, where Super Fang is most likely to help its teammates. Raticate is best switched in on passive foes that won't damage it, such as those immobilized by Wrap or about to use Recover or Rest. Smart double switching is also a good way to bring it in. However, bringing in Raticate to revenge kill a threat isn't out of the question either, especially if that threat is a faster Pokemon that has been bogged down with paralysis. Raticate should be playing hit-and-run first and foremost, as not only is it frail, but landing a Super Fang is more than enough to leave foes open to exploitation by Raticate's teammates anyway.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
Bubble Beam can replace Blizzard to 2HKO Golem or KO after a Super Fang on the switch in. In addition, Bubble Beam's chance to lower Speed can let Raticate beat normally faster Pokemon that switch in expecting a Blizzard, such as Tentacruel. Without Blizzard, though, Raticate doesn't have a good way of stopping Dragonite from setting up, so consider running Toxic over Body Slam if you use Bubble Beam. Thunder can be used for a better matchup against Gyarados, possessing a guaranteed OHKO after Super Fang. It has little use outside of this, however, as Omastar and Vaporeon are only 2HKOed after Super Fang and will always win prolonged interactions. In addition, replacing Blizzard with Thunder comes at the cost of losing against Dragonite unless Toxic is used. However, it is possible for Raticate to run two special moves at once—usually Blizzard and either Thunder or Bubble Beam—though this comes at the cost of Body Slam's consistency and potentially game-changing paralysis chance.

Checks and Counters
===================
**Haunter**: Raticate can still halve Haunter's HP with Super Fang, but Blizzard does a paltry 19.4% on average extremely poor damage. On the other hand, Haunter can 3HKO Raticate with Thunderbolt or put Raticate it to sleep with Hypnosis. Raticate will sometimes win one-on-one thanks to its Speed and Super Fang, but this is not consistent enough to recommend.

**Omastar**: Omastar resists Raticate's STAB moves, doesn't get OHKOed after a Super Fang, and possesses a guaranteed 2HKO in easily 2HKOes Raticate with Hydro Pump. It Omastar can switch in on a Hyper Beam, forcing Raticate out after it recharges and inflicting significant damage in the process. Raticate can use Thunder to try and get a better matchup, but Omastar takes no more than 36.1%, thus still winning one-on-one unless paralysis is or critical hits are involved. It should be noted that Raticate's critical hit rate can situationally allow it to muscle past, though.

**Paralysis**: Raticate's best qualities are its Speed and access to Super Fang, which forces slower threats to take significant damage before they can land a hit. Ergo, paralysis is a massive threat to its success, and Raticate should avoid chipping threats that can paralyze it. Paralysis's Speed drop exposes Raticate's extreme fragility while further reducing the consistency of Super Fang, making it effectively dead weight in many situations. Threats like Hypno, Tangela, Dragonite, and Electabuzz that can paralyze Raticate force it out unless they're chipped already. Once Raticate has scored a KO, opponents often bring these Pokemon in, causing the Raticate user to lose a significant amount of momentum. It should be noted that Hypno and paralyzed Electabuzz can't switch into Raticate, as Super Fang + Hyper Beam has a favorable chance to KO them outright. Dragonite also can't switch into Raticate, as Blizzard will KO it after Super Fang.

**Bulky Water-types**: Bulky Water-types like Tentacruel and Vaporeon possess very effective ways to force out Raticate. Tentacruel can switch in on Super Fang if it isn't paralyzed and subsequently scare Raticate out with a 2HKO from Surf, (RC) which can OHKO with a critical hit. However, Tentacruel is threatened with an outright KO from Super Fang + Hyper Beam. Vaporeon, on the other hand, survives Hyper Beam after a Super Fang and can still 2HKO Raticate with Surf.

**Golem**: Golem's Rock typing lets it easily switch in on Raticate's Hyper Beam and 2HKO it with Earthquake. Should Raticate lack a super effective move against Golem, it is very likely to lose the matchup. However, after a Super Fang, Raticate has a 41% chance to KO Golem with Blizzard and KOes it outright with Bubble Beam.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Plague von Karma, 236353]]
- Quality checked by: [[phoopes, 96315], [Sevi 7, 505149]]
- Grammar checked by: [[Rabia, 336073], [, ]]

I am on phone and therefore do not have my ID thing. GP 2/2

 

[Plague von Karma]

many many words

Implemented, should be ready for upload now!

 

[xJoelituh]

https://www.smogon.com/dex/rb/pokemon/raticate/