Gen 2 Sandslash (UU) [DONE]

[dawnbuster]

[OVERVIEW]
With Swords Dance, high Attack, and STAB Earthquake, Sandslash is one of the most simple yet dangerous sweepers in GSC UU. Its +2 Earthquake is capable of 2HKOing almost everything in the tier, even bulky Pokemon such as Blastoise and Slowbro. Its Ground typing and great Defense also allow it to come into common Pokemon such as Ampharos and Scyther. Unfortunately, it is on the slow side, lacks reliable recovery, and doesn't have very good Special Defense, meaning it requires careful play or support from teammates.

[SET]
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Earthquake
move 2: Rock Slide
move 3: Swords Dance
move 4: Substitute / Hidden Power Bug
item: Leftovers

[SET COMMENTS]
Set Description
=========
Earthquake is Sandslash's best STAB move and can hit Pokemon such as Nidoqueen, Ampharos, and Haunter for super effective damage. Rock Slide is mandatory for hitting Flying-types, such as Scyther, Dodrio, Gyarados, and Jumpluff, while also hitting Pinsir. Swords Dance lets Sandslash 2HKO almost the entire metagame after a single boost, notably including Slowbro and Granbull. Lastly, Substitute works especially well with paralysis support, letting Sandslash fish for full paralysis. It also works well against foes that might try to pivot around Sandslash's attacks, as well as Counter Gligar and Toxic Crobat. Substitute also improves Sandslash's odds of breaking through Water-types using Sleep Talk. Alternatively, Hidden Power Bug hits Bellossom, which otherwise is a great answer to Sandslash, but it is limited beyond that.

Team Options
========
Paralysis support is incredibly useful due to Sandslash's low Speed and benefit from a potential free setup turn, meaning Pokemon such as Jumpluff, Mr. Mime, and Hypno pair well with Sandslash. Jumpluff and Mr. Mime can both use Encore to let Sandslash switch in for free, and Hypno can support it with Light Screen and Reflect. Other setup sweepers such as Scyther, Pinsir, and Kabutops can be paired alongside Sandslash for an offensive assault that can be tough to wall for defensive teams, especially when supported by screens. Slowking, Chansey, and Hypno are useful teammates due to their good special bulk and ability to take Water-type attacks aimed at Sandslash. They also reinforce its strengths; Hypno and Slowking provide more consistency against Nidoqueen, and Chansey does the same against Electric-types. Scyther can support Sandslash by passing Swords Dance or Agility to it with Baton Pass. Electrode supports Sandslash well, as it can spread paralysis, set up screens, and use Explosion to provide Sandslash a free switch in. Bellossom can spread paralysis for Sandslash, sponge Water-type attacks, and notably lure in and paralyze Qwilfish. Ampharos can support Sandslash with screens or Thunder Wave and also switch into Water-types. Ampharos also lures in Nidoqueen, which can give Sandslash a setup opportunity if Nidoqueen lacks Lovely Kiss. Finally, Spikes support from Qwilfish maximizes the pressure that Sandslash exerts. Curse Qwilfish can also make progress against Blastoise if it tries to spin away Spikes.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
If Sandslash wishes to spread its own paralysis, Body Slam is an option over Substitute, although generally teammates should provide paralysis support due to Body Slam's unreliability. Protect is an option over Substitute for maintaining health and avoiding certain KOs. Counter is an odd option that can be useful against Scyther and its Swords Dance + Baton Pass recipients, as well as Granbull. It should be noted that Sandslash has access to Rapid Spin, but its illegality with Swords Dance, combined with Sandslash generally being outclassed in this role by Blastoise and Graveler, makes it a mediocre option.

Checks and Counters
===================
**Bellossom and Jumpluff**: Bellossom resists Earthquake and is bulky enough to avoid the 2HKO from Rock Slide while 2HKOing Sandslash with its STAB moves. However, it should watch out for Hidden Power Bug. Jumpluff can switch into Earthquake, Substitute, and Swords Dance and lock Sandslash into those undesirable moves with Encore or status it. A healthy Jumpluff especially is one of the best Sandslash answers.

**Water-types**: RestTalk Bulky Water-types, especially Blastoise and Slowbro, match up well against Sandslash due to their ability to threaten 2HKOs against it. Blastoise can also remove its boosts with Haze. However, Sandslash can break through them if they are paralyzed. Feraligatr and Gyarados also work as more offensive Sandslash checks, as Gyarados is immune to Earthquake and both threaten a 2HKO with Hydro Pump, but both have less longevity and have trouble fitting Rest.

**Gligar**: Gligar is one of the best Sandslash answers due to its Earthquake immunity and neutrality to Rock Slide, as well as good physical bulk and Counter to fend off boosted Rock Slides. Gligar also outspeeds Sandslash and almost always breaks its Substitute with Earthquake.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Reeece, 508601]]
- Quality checked by: [[Century Express, 234737], [Earthworm, 15210]]
- Grammar checked by: [[Finland, 517429], [Muk, 33374]]

 

[Earthworm]

[SET]
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Earthquake
move 2: Rock Slide
move 3: Swords Dance
move 4: Substitute
item: Leftovers

I think HP Bug should be slashed with Substitute. Getting walled by Bellossom sucks too much.

[SET COMMENTS]
Set Description
=========
Lastly, Substitute works especially well with paralysis support, letting Sandslash use Substitute on a paralysed foe until they get fully paralysed, and also works well against opponents that might try to pivot around Sandslash's attacks.

It's also useful for fighting Counter Gligar and Toxic Crobat.

Team Options
========
Paralysis support is incredibly useful due to Sandslash's low Speed, meaning Pokemon such as Jumpluff, Mr. Mime, and Hypno pair well with it. Jumpluff and Mr. Mime can both use Encore to let Sandslash switch in for free, and Hypno can support with Light Screen and Reflect. Other setup sweepers such as Scyther, Pinsir, and Kabutops can be paired alongside Sandslash for an offensive assault that can be tough to wall for defensive teams, especially when supported by screens. Scyther is also a useful teamate since it appreciates a Pokemon able to check Electric-types while also being able to Baton Pass Swords Dance to Sandslash. Ampharos is able to support Sandslash with Screens or Thunder Wave and appreciates a Pokemon that can switch into Nidoqueen's Earthquake. Spikes support from Qwilfish is useful for maximising pressure that Sandslash exerts.

I would decrease the mentions of Sandslash being able to take on certain kinds of attacks. Sandslash really appreciates being at full health or near full health, and even Electric-type attacks are usually paired with attacks that can inflict heavy damage to Sandslash. I would also particularly emphasise Hypno and Slowking as ideal partners due to their special bulk. Bellossom is another Pokemon worth mentioning for its ability to cripple Qwilfish.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
Thief can annoy a bulky Water-type such as Slowbro and Blastoise but is again hard to justify.

I think it's mostly because Sandslash is quite hard to switch in safely and get a free turn that Thief is unviable.

It should be noted that Sandslash has access to Rapid Spin, but its illegality with Swords Dance combined with Sandslash's iffy matchup against the tiers main Spiker in Qwilfish make it a mediocre option.

Graveler also does this better because it has Explosion alongside Rapid Spin.

Checks and Counters
===================
**Keeping Pokemon healthy**: Not letting Pokemon such as Slowbro or a faster Pokemon able to threaten Sandslash such as Gyarados be weakened or paralyzed is a good way to ward off Sandslash.

I don't think this is a great way to organise the checks and counters section since this applies to almost any sweeper.

**Bellossom and Jumpluff**: Bellossom resists Earthquake and is bulky enough to avoid the 2HKO from Rock Slide while 2HKOing Sandslash with its STAB moves. Jumpluff can switch into Earthquake, Substitute, and Swords Dance and Encore Sandslash into those undesirable moves or status Sandslash. It doesn’t like taking Rock Slide without Synthesis, though.

Jumpluff very rarely drops Synthesis and I think Hidden Power Bug should be mentioned in relation to Bellossom. Healthy Jumpluff is one of the most reliable answers to Sandslash, so I would explain the matchup a bit better.

**Water-types**: Blastoise and Feraligatr outspeed Sandslash and can 2HKO it with Surf and Blastoise can remove its boosts with Haze. However, Sandslash can break through them if they are paralysed. Gyarados is immune to Earthquake and threatens a 2HKO with Hydro Pump, but it should watch out for Rock Slide, and can lose if paralysed. Slowbro is a good check to Sandslash if it has not setup Swords Dance, being 4HKOed by unboosted Earthquake, but is 2HKOed by +2 Earthquake and is slower then Sandslash.

RestTalk bulky Water-types should be emphasised here. They can potentially take a hit and deal heavy damage in return then pivot out, only to come in later and use Rest. Which is very bad for the Sandslash player because Sandslash can very rarely recover or be impactful after taking a STAB Water-type attack.

 

[Diophantine]

Agreeing with everything Earthworm said so I'll be addressing things he hasn't.

Unfortunately, it is on the slow side and doesn’t have very good Special Defense

Mention a lack of reliable recovery too.

Earthquake is Sandslash's best STAB move, and can hit Pokemon such as Nidoqueen, Ampharos, and Haunter.

This reads a little odd. Say something like "for super effective damage" or "doesn't need a boost to 2HKO or OHKO".

Paralysis support is incredibly useful due to Sandslash's low Speed,

Also because a free turn may give it the chance to set up, but I guess you mentioned it before, so optional change but at least allude to it.

Baton Pass Swords Dance to Sandslash.

Maybe Agility is worth mentioning.

General note but when you make a point you have to back it up with reasoning.

If Sandslash wishes to spread its own paralysis, Body Slam is an option over Substitute, although generally it is preferred to have teamates support with paralysis.

Here, you say it's better to have its teammates support it instead of self-spreading, but you don't mention why. In case you don't know, it's because Body Slam paralysis is a lot more unreliable due to paralysis probabilities and Sandslash not being in as much as the more supportive Pokemon. Sandslash's immediate checks/counters are usually defensive sleep talkers who don't mind taking a body slam para and you're probably better off just attacking with EQ. Also, 4 moveslot syndrome means there's an opportunity cost of not running Sub (which applies to a lot of the other options)

It should be noted that Sandslash has access to Rapid Spin, but its illegality with Swords Dance combined with Sandslash's iffy matchup against the tiers main Spiker in Qwilfish make it a mediocre option.

Well Qwilfish can't exactly switch into Sandslash. The reason no-one uses Sandslash as a Spinner is because it doesn't have the defensive capabilities that Blastoise and Graveler provide.

 

[Century Express]

Hide

[OVERVIEW]

With Swords Dance, high Attack, and STAB Earthquake, Sandslash is one of the most simple yet dangerous sweepers in GSC UU. When paired with paralysis support from Pokemon such as Jumpluff and Mr. Mime (broader examples such as "when it finds a set-up opportunity" fit better in the Overview, because you already mentioned paralysis as a form of support under Team Options), it can be a major pain to deal with, as it’s +2 Earthquake is capable of 2HKOing almost everything in the tier, even bulky Pokemon such as Blastoise and Slowbro. It’s Ground-typing and great Defense are also useful for allowing it to come into common Pokemon such as Ampharos, Scyther, or a Fire Blast from Nidoqueen. Unfortunately, it is on the slow side, lacks reliable recovery, and doesn’t have very good Special Defense, meaning it is tough to switch in and as such requires careful play or support from teammates to get the most use out of it.

[SET]
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Earthquake
move 2: Rock Slide
move 3: Swords Dance
move 4: Substitute / Hidden Power Bug
item: Leftovers

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

This set takes advantage of paralysis support and Sandslash's high Attack to act as a dangerous sweeper (re: Overview). Earthquake is Sandslash's best STAB move, and can hit Pokemon such as Nidoqueen, Ampharos, and Haunter for super effective damage. Rock Slide is mandatory for hitting Flying-types, such as Scyther, Dodrio, and Jumpluff, while also hitting Pinsir. Swords Dance boosts Sandslash's attack, and lets Sandslash 2HKO almost the entire metagame after a single boost. Lastly, Substitute works especially well with paralysis support, letting Sandslash use Substitute on a paralysed foe until they get fully paralysed, and also works well against opponents that might try to pivot around Sandslash's attacks, while also being useful against Counter Gligar and Toxic Crobat. Alternatively, Hidden Power Bug hits Bellossom, who otherwise is a great answer to Sandslash, but it is limited beyond that.

Team Options
========

Paralysis support is incredibly useful due to Sandslash's low Speed and potential to give it a free setup turn, meaning Pokemon such as Jumpluff, Mr. Mime, and Hypno pair well with it. Jumpluff and Mr. Mime can both use Encore to let Sandslash switch in for free, and Hypno can support with Light Screen and Reflect. Other setup sweepers such as Scyther, Pinsir, and Kabutops can be paired alongside Sandslash for an offensive assault that can be tough to wall for defensive teams, especially when supported by screens. Slowking and Hypno are useful teammates due to their good Special Bulk and ability to spread paralysis (These Pokémon should mentioned primarily for sinergy purposes, such as covering Sandslash's weakness against Water-types such as Slowbro, Blastoise, and Qwilfish, so don't forget to mention that!). Scyther is also a useful teamate since it appreciates a Pokemon able to Baton Pass Swords Dance or Agility Sandslash, which can make it a bigger threat. Bellossom is a good partner, as it is able to spread paralysis for Sandslash, and can notably lure in and paralyse Qwilfish. Ampharos is able to support Sandslash with Screens or Thunder Wave (alongside these traits, Ampharos' ability of dissuating Water-types and inviting Nidoqueen switch-ins should be mentioned here, allowing Sandslash to find more set-up opportunities). Finally, Spikes support from Qwilfish is useful for maximising pressure that Sandslash exerts (not too much relevant to be honest, but Qwilfish also makes direct progress against Blastoise as it tries to Spin away Qwilfish's Spikes)

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

If Sandslash wishes to spread its own paralysis, Body Slam is an option over Substitute, although generally it is preferred to have teamates support with paralysis due to Body Slam being less reliable and Sandslash not being great at supporting. It should be noted that Sandslash has access to Rapid Spin, but its illegality with Swords Dance combined with Sandslash generally being outclassed in this role by Blastoise and Graveler make it a mediocre option.

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

**Bellossom and Jumpluff**: Bellossom resists Earthquake and is bulky enough to avoid the 2HKO from Rock Slide while 2HKOing Sandslash with its STAB moves. However, it should watch out for Hidden Power Bug. Jumpluff can switch into Earthquake, Substitute, and Swords Dance and Encore Sandslash into those undesirable moves or status Sandslash. A healthy Jumpluff especially is one of the best Sandslash answers.

**Water-types**: RestTalk Bulky Waters especially are good against Sandslash due to their ability to 2HKO Sandslash, switch out, and then Rest later to ward off Sandslash, so Blastoise, Slowbro and Feraligatr (nitpicking here, but i'd merge Feraligatr later, along with Gyarados - both are more proactive, but less sturdier answer against Sandslash) have an especially good matchup against it. Blastoise can remove its boosts with Haze. However, Sandslash can break through them if they are paralysed. Gyarados is immune to Earthquake and threatens a 2HKO with Hydro Pump, but it should watch out for Rock Slide, and can lose if paralysed.

**Gligar**: Gligar is one of the best Sandslash answers due to its Earthquake immunity and neutrality to Rock Slide, while also having good physical bulk and Counter to fend off boosted Rock Slides.
[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[ReeceHughes, 508601 ]]
- Quality checked by: [[, ], [, ]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]

Let me know when you're done, and i'll check if there's anything else left to nitpick

 

[dawnbuster]

Let me know when you're done, and i'll check if there's anything else left to nitpick

I implemented this sry for taking so long.

Also, I was thinking of adding Counter to OO, but I’m not sure of it. Ig it could work with Sandslash's good Phys Def?

 

[Gen1UUFan]

If you add Counter, mention how it also works against all Hidden Powers, though to be honest there's very little Sandslash would actually be better off using Counter against as opposed to just attacking straight up or switching out.

 

[Century Express]

By the way Reece, I think Counter is alright, although I can't think about too many important scenarios in my head (the only situation where I thought of Counter as a legimate option, is when you use it as a tech / surprise move against Scyther and its Baton Pass targets), but feel free to add more scenarios where Counter is a valid pick in the OO. Overall I think this analysis is reaching a good pace, i'll QC it after you implement the remaining nitpicks.

Hide

[OVERVIEW]

With Swords Dance, high Attack, and STAB Earthquake, Sandslash is one of the most simple yet dangerous sweepers in GSC UU. When paired with support from its teammates and given opportunities to set up, it can be a major pain to deal with, as it’s +2 Earthquake is capable of 2HKOing almost everything in the tier, even bulky Pokemon such as Blastoise and Slowbro. It’s Ground-typing and great Defense are also useful for allowing it to come into common Pokemon such as Ampharos and Scyther. Unfortunately, it is on the slow side, lacks reliable recovery, and doesn’t have very good Special Defense, meaning it is tough to switch in and as such requires careful play or support from teammates to get the most use out of it.

[SET]
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Earthquake
move 2: Rock Slide
move 3: Swords Dance
move 4: Substitute / Hidden Power Bug
item: Leftovers

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

Earthquake is Sandslash's best STAB move, and can hit Pokemon such as Nidoqueen, Ampharos, and Haunter for super effective damage. Rock Slide is mandatory for hitting Flying-types, such as Scyther, Dodrio, Gyarados, and Jumpluff, while also hitting Pinsir. Swords Dance boosts Sandslash's attack, and lets Sandslash 2HKO almost the entire metagame after a single boost I forgot to nitpick this before, but I think it's good idea to showcase some important benchmarks here (ex: near-guaranteed 2HKO against Slowbro after a Swords Dance, since it's a quite common scenario. Lastly, Substitute works especially well with paralysis support, letting Sandslash use Substitute on a paralysed foe until they get fully paralysed, and also works well against opponents that might try to pivot around Sandslash's attacks, while also being useful against Counter Gligar and Toxic Crobat Alongside these traits, Substitute can be used as a tool to slightly increase your odds of getting past Blastoise, Slowking and Slowking's Sleep Talk rolls. Alternatively, Hidden Power Bug hits Bellossom, who otherwise is a great answer to Sandslash, but it is limited beyond that.

Team Options
========

Paralysis support is incredibly useful due to Sandslash's low Speed and potential to give it a free setup turn, meaning Pokemon such as Jumpluff, Mr. Mime, and Hypno pair well with it. Jumpluff and Mr. Mime can both use Encore to let Sandslash switch in for free, and Hypno can support with Light Screen and Reflect. Other setup sweepers such as Scyther, Pinsir, and Kabutops can be paired alongside Sandslash for an offensive assault that can be tough to wall for defensive teams, especially when supported by screens. Slowking, Chansey, and Hypno are useful teammates due to their good Special Bulk and ability to take Water-type attacks aimed at Sandslash just make a brief mention to some examples of overlapping sinergy (e: Sandslash + Hypno or Slowking giving you more consistency against Nidoqueen; and Sandslash + Chansey's sinergy against Electric-types). Scyther is also a good teamate, as it can support Sandslash by passing Swords Dance or Agility to it. Bellossom is a good partner, as it is able to spread paralysis for Sandslash, sponge Water-type attacks and can notably lure in and paralyse Qwilfish. Ampharos is able to support Sandslash with Screens or Thunder Wave and also switch into Water-types. Ampharos also lets in Nidoqueen, which can be used to give Sandslash a setup support. Finally, Spikes support from Qwilfish is useful for maximising pressure that Sandslash exerts. Qwilfish can also make progress against Blastoise if it tries to Spin away Spikes.

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

If Sandslash wishes to spread its own paralysis, Body Slam is an option over Substitute, although generally it is preferred to have teamates support with paralysis due to Body Slam being less reliable and Sandslash not being great at supporting. It should be noted that Sandslash has access to Rapid Spin, but its illegality with Swords Dance combined with Sandslash generally being outclassed in this role by Blastoise and Graveler make it a mediocre option.
Checks and Counters
===================

**Bellossom and Jumpluff**: Bellossom resists Earthquake and is bulky enough to avoid the 2HKO from Rock Slide while 2HKOing Sandslash with its STAB moves. However, it should watch out for Hidden Power Bug. Jumpluff can switch into Earthquake, Substitute, and Swords Dance and Encore Sandslash into those undesirable moves or status Sandslash. A healthy Jumpluff especially is one of the best Sandslash answers.

**Water-types**: RestTalk Bulky Waters especially are good against Sandslash due to their ability to 2HKO Sandslash, switch out, and then Rest later to ward off Sandslash, so Blastoise and Slowbro have an especially good matchup against it. Blastoise can remove its boosts with Haze. However, Sandslash can break through them if they are paralysed. Feraligatr and Gyarados also work as Sandslash checks, as Gyarados immune to Earthquake and both threaten a 2HKO with Hydro Pump. Looking good! In this part, don't forget to mention that Gyarados and Feraligatr don't have the same longevity of the defensively-oriented Bulky Waters; i'd highlight Gyarados' weakness against Rock Slide, and Feraligatr's difficult at fitting a consistent recovery move as their main flaws, respectively.

**Gligar**: Gligar is one of the best Sandslash answers due to its Earthquake immunity and neutrality to Rock Slide, while also having good physical bulk and Counter to fend off boosted Rock Slides. Oh yeah, you should absolutely mention that Gligar outspeeds Sandslash, and its STAB Earthquake has a near-guaranteed chance of breaking Sandslash's Substitute.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Reeece, 508601]]
- Quality checked by: [[, ], [, ]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]

 

[dawnbuster]

By the way Reece, I think Counter is alright, although I can't think about too many important scenarios in my head (the only situation where I thought of Counter as a legimate option, is when you use it as a tech / surprise move against Scyther and its Baton Pass targets), but feel free to add more scenarios where Counter is a valid pick in the OO. Overall I think this analysis is reaching a good pace, i'll QC it after you implement the remaining nitpicks.

Did this. QC 1/2

 

[Century Express]

Hide

On "and also have overlapping synergy like with Hypno and Sandslash giving you more consistency against Nidoqueen and Chansey against Electric-types.", just make sure to replace Sandslash with Blastoise - you can also specify that Hypno and Slowking provide a defensive backbone against Nidoqueen, and both prevent Sandslash from taking unnecessary hits vs. Nidoqueen, despite Sandslash having a threathening presence against it. This change is more reader-friendly than c/p'ing my first description.

Don't have too much to add, nice stuff, confirming the QC 1/2

 

[Earthworm]

Ampharos also lets in Nidoqueen, which can be used to give Sandslash a setup support.

I find this sentence confusing and ambiguous, please rewrite it so that it is easier to understand.

Electrode can be added to team options as another good paralysis spreader + screens user. Explosion also provides one free entry for Sandslash (probably behind a screen too).

I think Protect is worth mentioning in OO as an alternative to Substitute. I could see it helping to maintain slightly higher HP levels and potentially avoiding some XHKOs, since Sandslash can really struggle with staying healthy.

QC 2/2 once done.

 

[Adeleine]

Add/Fix Remove Comment
(AC)/(RC): Add/Remove Comma

Hide

[OVERVIEW]

With Swords Dance, high Attack, and STAB Earthquake, Sandslash is one of the most simple yet dangerous sweepers in GSC UU. When paired with support from its teammates and given opportunities to set up, it can be a major pain to deal with, as it’s Its +2 Earthquake is capable of 2HKOing almost everything in the tier, even bulky Pokemon such as Blastoise and Slowbro. It’s Ground-typing Its Ground typing and great Defense are also useful for allowing it to come into common Pokemon such as Ampharos and Scyther. Unfortunately, it is on the slow side, lacks reliable recovery, and doesn’t have very good Special Defense, meaning it is tough to switch in and as such therefore requires careful play or support from teammates to get the most use out of it. (I imagine this still checks out?)

[SET]
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Earthquake
move 2: Rock Slide
move 3: Swords Dance
move 4: Substitute / Hidden Power Bug
item: Leftovers

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

Earthquake is Sandslash's best STAB move (RC) and can hit Pokemon such as Nidoqueen, Ampharos, and Haunter for super effective damage. Rock Slide is mandatory for hitting Flying-types, such as Scyther, Dodrio, Gyarados, and Jumpluff, while also hitting Pinsir. Swords Dance boosts Sandslash's attack, and lets Sandslash 2HKO almost the entire metagame after a single boost, notably being able to 2HKO including Slowbro and Granbull. Lastly, Substitute works especially well with paralysis support, letting Sandslash use Substitute on a paralyzed foe until they get fully paralyzed. (comma -> period) and It also works well against opponents foes that might try to pivot around Sandslash's attacks, while also being useful against as well as Counter Gligar and Toxic Crobat. Substitute is also useful for increasing your odds of breaking through Water-type Sleep Talk rolls. Water-types using Sleep Talk. (I imagine this is what you meant?) Alternatively, Hidden Power Bug hits Bellossom, who which otherwise is a great answer to Sandslash, but it is limited beyond that.

Team Options
========

Paralysis support is incredibly useful due to Sandslash's low Speed and potential to give it a benefit from a potential free setup turn, meaning Pokemon such as Jumpluff, Mr. Mime, and Hypno pair well with it. Jumpluff and Mr. Mime can both use Encore to let Sandslash switch in for free, and Hypno can support it with Light Screen and Reflect. Other setup sweepers such as Scyther, Pinsir, and Kabutops can be paired alongside Sandslash for an offensive assault that can be tough to wall for defensive teams, especially when supported by screens. ("dual screens" when you mean intentionally setting both at the same time, "screens" when you just mean some smattering of reflect/lightscreen/both in general. pick whichever is appropriate) Slowking, Chansey, and Hypno are useful teammates due to their good special bulk and ability to take Water-type attacks aimed at Sandslash. (comma -> period) and also have overlapping synergy They also reinforce its strengths, (I imagine this makes sense?) like with Hypno and Blastoise giving you more consistency against Nidoqueen and Chansey doing the same against Electric-types. Scyther is also a good teamate, as it can support Sandslash by passing Swords Dance or Agility to it with Baton Pass. Electrode supports Sandslash well, as it can spread paralysis and set up (was "setup") screens (same "dual screens vs screens" thing as above) as well maps use as using Explosion to provide Sandslash a free switch in. Bellossom is a good partner, as it is able to spread paralysis for Sandslash, sponge Water-type attacks, (AC) and can notably lure in and paralyze Qwilfish. Ampharos is able to support Sandslash with Screens (same "screens or dual screens" thing, just make sure it's lowercase) or Thunder Wave and also switch into Water-types. Ampharos also lets in Nidoqueen, which can be used to give Sandslash a setup opportunity if it Nidoqueen doesn’t have Lovely Kiss. Finally, Spikes support from Qwilfish is useful for maximizing the pressure that Sandslash exerts. Qwilfish can also make progress against Blastoise if it tries to spin away Spikes.

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

If Sandslash wishes to spread its own paralysis, Body Slam is an option over Substitute, although generally it is preferred to have teamates support with teammates should provide paralysis due to Body Slam being less reliable and Sandslash not being great at supporting. Protect is an option over Substitute for maintaining health and avoiding certain KOs. Counter is an odd option that may be useful against Scyther and its Swords Dance Baton Pass recipients, (AC) as well as Granbull. It should be noted that Sandslash has access to Rapid Spin, but its illegality with Swords Dance, (AC) combined with Sandslash generally being outclassed in this role by Blastoise and Graveler, (AC) makes it a mediocre option.

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

**Bellossom and Jumpluff**: Bellossom resists Earthquake and is bulky enough to avoid the 2HKO from Rock Slide while 2HKOing Sandslash with its STAB moves. However, it should watch out for Hidden Power Bug. Jumpluff can switch into Earthquake, Substitute, and Swords Dance and Encore lock Sandslash into those undesirable moves with Encore or status Sandslash. it. A healthy Jumpluff especially is one of the best Sandslash answers.

**Water-types**: RestTalk Bulky Water-types especially are good against Sandslash due to their ability to threaten 2HKOs on Sandslash, switch out, and then use Rest later to ward off Sandslash, so it off. Blastoise and Slowbro have an especially good matchup against it, (AC) and Blastoise can remove its boosts with Haze. However, Sandslash can break through them if they are paralyzed. Feraligatr and Gyarados also work as Sandslash checks, as Gyarados is immune to Earthquake and both threaten a 2HKO with Hydro Pump. However, they both have less longevity and have trouble fitting Rest, (AC) and Gyarados is also weak to Rock Slide.

**Gligar**: Gligar is one of the best Sandslash answers due to its Earthquake immunity and neutrality to Rock Slide, while also as well as it having good physical bulk and Counter to fend off boosted Rock Slides. In return, Gligar outspeeds Sandslash and almost always breaks Sandslash's its Substitute.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Reeece, 508601]]
- Quality checked by: [[], [, ]]
- Grammar checked by: [[Finland, 517429], [, ]]

1/2

 

[dawnbuster]

Add/Fix Remove Comment
(AC)/(RC): Add/Remove Comma

Hide

[OVERVIEW]

With Swords Dance, high Attack, and STAB Earthquake, Sandslash is one of the most simple yet dangerous sweepers in GSC UU. When paired with support from its teammates and given opportunities to set up, it can be a major pain to deal with, as it’s Its +2 Earthquake is capable of 2HKOing almost everything in the tier, even bulky Pokemon such as Blastoise and Slowbro. It’s Ground-typing Its Ground typing and great Defense are also useful for allowing it to come into common Pokemon such as Ampharos and Scyther. Unfortunately, it is on the slow side, lacks reliable recovery, and doesn’t have very good Special Defense, meaning it is tough to switch in and as such therefore requires careful play or support from teammates to get the most use out of it. (I imagine this still checks out?)

[SET]
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Earthquake
move 2: Rock Slide
move 3: Swords Dance
move 4: Substitute / Hidden Power Bug
item: Leftovers

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

Earthquake is Sandslash's best STAB move (RC) and can hit Pokemon such as Nidoqueen, Ampharos, and Haunter for super effective damage. Rock Slide is mandatory for hitting Flying-types, such as Scyther, Dodrio, Gyarados, and Jumpluff, while also hitting Pinsir. Swords Dance boosts Sandslash's attack, and lets Sandslash 2HKO almost the entire metagame after a single boost, notably being able to 2HKO including Slowbro and Granbull. Lastly, Substitute works especially well with paralysis support, letting Sandslash use Substitute on a paralyzed foe until they get fully paralyzed. (comma -> period) and It also works well against opponents foes that might try to pivot around Sandslash's attacks, while also being useful against as well as Counter Gligar and Toxic Crobat. Substitute is also useful for increasing your odds of breaking through Water-type Sleep Talk rolls. Water-types using Sleep Talk. (I imagine this is what you meant?) Alternatively, Hidden Power Bug hits Bellossom, who which otherwise is a great answer to Sandslash, but it is limited beyond that.

Team Options
========

Paralysis support is incredibly useful due to Sandslash's low Speed and potential to give it a benefit from a potential free setup turn, meaning Pokemon such as Jumpluff, Mr. Mime, and Hypno pair well with it. Jumpluff and Mr. Mime can both use Encore to let Sandslash switch in for free, and Hypno can support it with Light Screen and Reflect. Other setup sweepers such as Scyther, Pinsir, and Kabutops can be paired alongside Sandslash for an offensive assault that can be tough to wall for defensive teams, especially when supported by screens. ("dual screens" when you mean intentionally setting both at the same time, "screens" when you just mean some smattering of reflect/lightscreen/both in general. pick whichever is appropriate) Slowking, Chansey, and Hypno are useful teammates due to their good special bulk and ability to take Water-type attacks aimed at Sandslash. (comma -> period) and also have overlapping synergy They also reinforce its strengths, (I imagine this makes sense?) like with Hypno and Blastoise giving you more consistency against Nidoqueen and Chansey doing the same against Electric-types. Scyther is also a good teamate, as it can support Sandslash by passing Swords Dance or Agility to it with Baton Pass. Electrode supports Sandslash well, as it can spread paralysis and set up (was "setup") screens (same "dual screens vs screens" thing as above) as well maps use as using Explosion to provide Sandslash a free switch in. Bellossom is a good partner, as it is able to spread paralysis for Sandslash, sponge Water-type attacks, (AC) and can notably lure in and paralyze Qwilfish. Ampharos is able to support Sandslash with Screens (same "screens or dual screens" thing, just make sure it's lowercase) or Thunder Wave and also switch into Water-types. Ampharos also lets in Nidoqueen, which can be used to give Sandslash a setup opportunity if it Nidoqueen doesn’t have Lovely Kiss. Finally, Spikes support from Qwilfish is useful for maximizing the pressure that Sandslash exerts. Qwilfish can also make progress against Blastoise if it tries to spin away Spikes.

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

If Sandslash wishes to spread its own paralysis, Body Slam is an option over Substitute, although generally it is preferred to have teamates support with teammates should provide paralysis due to Body Slam being less reliable and Sandslash not being great at supporting. Protect is an option over Substitute for maintaining health and avoiding certain KOs. Counter is an odd option that may be useful against Scyther and its Swords Dance Baton Pass recipients, (AC) as well as Granbull. It should be noted that Sandslash has access to Rapid Spin, but its illegality with Swords Dance, (AC) combined with Sandslash generally being outclassed in this role by Blastoise and Graveler, (AC) makes it a mediocre option.

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

**Bellossom and Jumpluff**: Bellossom resists Earthquake and is bulky enough to avoid the 2HKO from Rock Slide while 2HKOing Sandslash with its STAB moves. However, it should watch out for Hidden Power Bug. Jumpluff can switch into Earthquake, Substitute, and Swords Dance and Encore lock Sandslash into those undesirable moves with Encore or status Sandslash. it. A healthy Jumpluff especially is one of the best Sandslash answers.

**Water-types**: RestTalk Bulky Water-types especially are good against Sandslash due to their ability to threaten 2HKOs on Sandslash, switch out, and then use Rest later to ward off Sandslash, so it off. Blastoise and Slowbro have an especially good matchup against it, (AC) and Blastoise can remove its boosts with Haze. However, Sandslash can break through them if they are paralyzed. Feraligatr and Gyarados also work as Sandslash checks, as Gyarados is immune to Earthquake and both threaten a 2HKO with Hydro Pump. However, they both have less longevity and have trouble fitting Rest, (AC) and Gyarados is also weak to Rock Slide.

**Gligar**: Gligar is one of the best Sandslash answers due to its Earthquake immunity and neutrality to Rock Slide, while also as well as it having good physical bulk and Counter to fend off boosted Rock Slides. In return, Gligar outspeeds Sandslash and almost always breaks Sandslash's its Substitute.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Reeece, 508601]]
- Quality checked by: [[], [, ]]
- Grammar checked by: [[Finland, 517429], [, ]]

View attachment 3630101/2

Implemented, ready for GP 1/2!

 

[Muk]

GP 2/2

Hide

[OVERVIEW]

With Swords Dance, high Attack, and STAB Earthquake, Sandslash is one of the most simple yet dangerous sweepers in GSC UU. Its +2 Earthquake is capable of 2HKOing almost everything in the tier, even bulky Pokemon such as Blastoise and Slowbro. Its Ground typing and great Defense are also useful for allowing it to come into common Pokemon such as Ampharos and Scyther. Unfortunately, it is on the slow side, lacks reliable recovery, and doesn’t have very good Special Defense, meaning it is tough to switch in and therefore requires careful play or support from teammates.

[SET]
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Earthquake
move 2: Rock Slide
move 3: Swords Dance
move 4: Substitute / Hidden Power Bug
item: Leftovers

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

Earthquake is Sandslash's best STAB move and can hit Pokemon such as Nidoqueen, Ampharos, and Haunter for super effective damage. Rock Slide is mandatory for hitting Flying-types, such as Scyther, Dodrio, Gyarados, and Jumpluff, while also hitting Pinsir. Swords Dance lets Sandslash 2HKO almost the entire metagame after a single boost, notably including Slowbro and Granbull. Lastly, Substitute works especially well with paralysis support, letting Sandslash use Substitute on a paralyzedfish for foe until they get fully paralyzedsis. It also works well against foes that might try to pivot around Sandslash's attacks, as well as Counter Gligar and Toxic Crobat. Substitute is also useful for increasing yourimproves Sandslash's odds of breaking through Water-types using Sleep Talk. Alternatively, Hidden Power Bug hits Bellossom, which otherwise is a great answer to Sandslash, but it is limited beyond that.

Team Options
========

Paralysis support is incredibly useful due to Sandslash's low Speed and benefit from a potential free setup turn, meaning Pokemon such as Jumpluff, Mr. Mime, and Hypno pair well with itSandslash. Jumpluff and Mr. Mime can both use Encore to let Sandslash switch in for free, and Hypno can support it with Light Screen and Reflect. Other setup sweepers such as Scyther, Pinsir, and Kabutops can be paired alongside Sandslash for an offensive assault that can be tough to wall for defensive teams, especially when supported by screens. Slowking, Chansey, and Hypno are useful teammates due to their good special bulk and ability to take Water-type attacks aimed at Sandslash. They also reinforce its strengths, like with; Hypno and Blastoise givSlowking youprovide more consistency against Nidoqueen, and Chansey doinges the same against Electric-types. Scyther can support Sandslash by passing Swords Dance or Agility to it with Baton Pass. Electrode supports Sandslash well, as it can spread paralysis and, set up screens, as well asnd usinge Explosion to provide Sandslash a free switch in. Bellossom is able tocan spread paralysis for Sandslash, sponge Water-type attacks, and notably lure in and paralyze Qwilfish. Ampharos is able tocan support Sandslash with screens or Thunder Wave and also switch into Water-types. Ampharos also lurets in Nidoqueen, which can be used to give Sandslash a setup opportunity if Nidoqueen doesn’t havelacks Lovely Kiss. Finally, Spikes support from Qwilfish is useful for maximizinges the pressure that Sandslash exerts. Curse Qwilfish can also make progress against Blastoise if it tries to spin away Spikes.

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

If Sandslash wishes to spread its own paralysis, Body Slam is an option over Substitute, although generally teammates should provide paralysis support due to Body Slam being less 's unreliable and Sandslash not being great at supportingility. Protect is an option over Substitute for maintaining health and avoiding certain KOs. Counter is an odd option that maycan be useful against Scyther and its Swords Dance + Baton Pass recipients, as well as Granbull. It should be noted that Sandslash has access to Rapid Spin, but its illegality with Swords Dance, combined with Sandslash generally being outclassed in this role by Blastoise and Graveler, makes it a mediocre option.

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

**Bellossom and Jumpluff**: Bellossom resists Earthquake and is bulky enough to avoid the 2HKO from Rock Slide while 2HKOing Sandslash with its STAB moves. However, it should watch out for Hidden Power Bug. Jumpluff can switch into Earthquake, Substitute, and Swords Dance and lock Sandslash into those undesirable moves with Encore or status it. A healthy Jumpluff especially is one of the best Sandslash answers.

**Water-types**: RestTalk Bbulky Water-types, especially are good against Sandslash due to their ability to threaten 2HKOs on Sandslash, switch out, and then use Rest later to ward it off. Blastoise and Slowbro have an especially good, match up well against it, Sandslash. Blastoise can also remove its boosts with Haze. However, Sandslash can break through them if they are paralyzed. Feraligatr and Gyarados also work as more offensive Sandslash checks, as Gyarados is immune to Earthquake and both threaten a 2HKO with Hydro Pump. However, they both have less longevity and have trouble fitting Rest, and Gyarados is also weak to Rock Slide.

**Gligar**: Gligar is one of the best Sandslash answers due to its Earthquake immunity and neutrality to Rock Slide, as well as it having good physical bulk and Counter to fend off boosted Rock Slides. In return, Gligar also outspeeds Sandslash and almost always breaks its Substitute.

 

[dawnbuster]

This was implemented, all ready for upload now!

 

[Earthworm]

Uploaded.