PU Scyther Revamp

[TTK]

(taken over by Megazard)
uploading

[OVERVIEW]

Scyther is a mediocre choice in PU and primarily functions as a pivot capable of checking fairly common Fighting- and Grass-type Pokemon such as Gurdurr and Victreebel. With a bulky Swords Dance set, it is capable of using its bulk to check the aforementioned Pokemon while simultaneously pressuring defensive cores reliant on Pokemon such as Sableye and Lanturn with its ability to pivot out while going for boosted attacks. It can also run a passable Choice Scarf set, being an extremely fast pivot capable of revenge killing and gaining momentum quickly, or manage a Choice Band set that can hit decently hard and be more difficult to handle defensively. Unfortunately, a crippling 4x weakness to Stealth Rock severely limits Scyther's capabilities and mandates good entry hazard removal to make it usable. This also leads to Scyther being easily pressured by Rock-type move users like Lycanroc, Aggron, and Choice Scarf Primeape and by common Ice-, Flying- and Electric-types such as Alolan Sandslash, Dodrio, and Eelektross. Even with a Swords Dance set, Scyther cannot break through common defensive options in the tier such as Regirock and Mudsdale, which leads to Scyther really struggling in a lot of matchups.

[SET]
name: Bulky Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: U-turn
move 3: Aerial Ace
move 4: Roost
item: Eviolite
ability: Technician
nature: Jolly
evs: 248 HP / 8 Atk / 252 Spe

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

U-turn is Scyther's Bug-type STAB attack and lets it pivot out of poor matchups and keep momentum going. Aerial Ace rounds out Scyther's STAB coverage and allows it to hit Gurdurr super effectively.

Set Details
========

248 HP EVs ensure Scyther is as bulky as possible in conjunction with Eviolite, letting it better switch into foes like Hitmonchan. This amount of HP investment also allows Scyther to survive switching into Stealth Rock twice.

Usage Tips
========

Scyther utilizes its bulk and typing to act as a decent check to a number of weaker attackers or Pokemon with a type disadvantage. It is at its best switching into foes such as Lurantis, Claydol, and Clefairy, setting up a Swords Dance, and getting off a boosted hit for free. However, it is not recommended to switch in Scyther when Stealth Rock is present on the field, as losing half of its HP stops it from performing its role effectively. It also places Scyther in situations where it must use Roost to recover its health, which potentially allows opposing Pokemon to gain momentum against Scyther if it cannot safely use U-turn. Scyther will also want to immediately pivot out with U-turn rather than bothering to set up with Swords Dance when facing certain foes such as Regirock and defensive Alolan Sandslash that it won't be doing much damage to regardless. It is not optimal to bring in Scyther against status users like Sableye and Jellicent, whose Will-O-Wisp cripples Scyther and reduces its damage output.

Team Options
========

Scyther is best found on offensive teams that require a fast pivot to gain momentum and appreciate its typing to check Grass- and Fighting-types in the tier. Entry hazard removal is key when using Scyther, and teammates such as Skuntank and Choice Scarf Alolan Sandslash massively help Scyther to improve its longevity while still fitting well on the more offensive teams Scyther tends to find itself on. Fast pivots such as Silvally-Water form a VoltTurn core with Scyther, which also appreciates the Fire resistance Silvally-Water offers. Silvally-Water also pressures common Stealth Rock users like Mudsdale and Regirock and removes their entry hazards. Similarly, Eelektross and Lanturn form solid VoltTurn cores with Scyther and help check Electric- and Flying-types. Scyther also works well with wallbreakers such as Stoutland. Scyther is able to check Fighting-types like Hitmonchan that give Stoutland trouble, and, in return, Stoutland can break through the Steel-types that completely wall Scyther, such as Aggron and Alolan Sandslash. Omastar is another notable offensive partner, as it pressures bulky Rock-, Ground-, and Steel-types quite well and can make good use of Scyther's pivoting abilities to find setup opportunities. On the defensive side, Regirock is a nice partner because it can check Flying- and Rock-types such as Dodrio and Lycanroc, two Pokemon that heavily pressure this Scyther set.

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: U-turn
move 2: Aerial Ace
move 3: Brick Break
move 4: Knock Off / Toxic
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Technician
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

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

Brick Break enables Scyther to hit Steel-types such as Alolan Sandslash, OHKO Aurorus, and pressure Aggron. Knock Off is a useful move to cripple defensive Pokemon such as Clefairy and Audino. Toxic is another nice utility option that can cripple Scyther's standard checks like Regirock. However, it can be extremely risky to lock Scyther into.

Set Details
========

Maximum Speed investment with a Jolly nature and Choice Scarf maximizes Scyther's Speed, beating out Modest Ludicolo under rain, Alolan Sandslash under hail, and Choice Scarf Primeape.

Usage Tips
========

Choice Scarf Scyther should be primarily used to revenge kill weakened Pokemon or force out Bug-weak threats such as Alolan Raichu and gain momentum for its teammates with U-turn. Be mindful before locking Scyther into any other move. Toxic can easily be played around; Brick Break and Knock Off are fairly weak, with the latter being exploitable by setup sweepers using Z-Moves; and even Aerial Ace provides Rock-types such as Lycanroc and Omastar with a free setup opportunity. Scyther will need good prediction to switch into most attacks safely. For example, while it can pivot into Gurdurr's Drain Punch and Victreebel's Leaf Storm, it will not want to be hit by a Knock Off from the former or Sludge Bomb from the latter. Choice Scarf Scyther is a risky set to utilize on teams due to the fact that all it really does is pivot in and out with a little chip damage and provide setup opportunities for certain sweepers; thus, it needs to be used extremely carefully so as not to give the opponent the upper hand.

Team Options
========

This Scyther set fits on VoltTurn offense teams that appreciate a fast pivot to bring in slower wallbreakers. Pairing it with other pivots such as Rotom-F is a must. Entry hazard removal is vital when utilizing Scyther. Lurantis provides Defog support and is a good check against Mudsdale and Regirock, which heavily pressure Scyther. Hitmonchan is also a good hazard remover to pair with Scyther, as it can take the brunt of attacks from special attackers like Simisear and Aurorus and threaten them out. Conversely, Scyther also appreciates entry hazard support from Pokemon such as Torterra, as the chip damage makes its pivoting noticeably more effective. Special wallbreakers like Drampa are good teammates, as they heavily pressure physical walls like Tangela and Sableye, which Scyther has trouble breaking through. Additionally, Scyther offers a Fighting-type resistance to Drampa, while Drampa resists both Fire- and Electric-type attacks for Scyther.

[SET]
name: Choice Band
move 1: U-turn
move 2: Aerial Ace
move 3: Brick Break
move 4: Knock Off / Pursuit
item: Choice Band
ability: Technician
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

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

Brick Break provides coverage against Steel-types like Aggron, which wall Scyther otherwise. Knock Off cripples defensive answers to Scyther like Tangela and Mudsdale, removing vital items from each of them. Pursuit can also be used to trap and KO weakened or Dark-weak Pokemon, allowing Scyther to support its teammates at the cost of not being able to cripple its checks as well.

Set Details
========

Technician is the ability of choice to boost the damage output of Aerial Ace as well as of Pursuit if the opponent does not switch.

Usage Tips
========

Scyther should be used early- to mid-game to chip away at opposing defensive Pokemon like Qwilfish and ease the job of its teammates. However, since Scyther lacks Roost on this set, it is prone to getting worn down quite easily, so it is ideal to avoid switching Scyther into direct attacks whenever possible and never bring it in when Stealth Rock is up. Scyther should mostly be brought in versus physically frail or Bug-weak Pokemon and pivot out with powerful U-turns to rack up as much chip damage as possible early on. Knock Off can be extremely rewarding to surprise opponents with, as it can destroy the passive recovery of Pokemon like Regirock and Mudsdale and make them significantly easier to wear down. Choice Band Scyther relies on good prediction and surprise factor. Predicting a Steel-type like Alolan Sandslash to come in on an expected U-turn or Aerial Ace and KOing it with Brick Break is the best way to get maximum mileage out of its power. However, despite its boosted power, Choice Band Scyther is still very easy to exploit if it locks itself into the wrong attack.

Team Options
========

Scyther pairs well with other pivots like Lanturn and Silvally-Dragon, which are able to pressure its defensive checks like Regirock and Sableye. Entry hazard removal is a necessity on any team with Scyther; Claydol can be a decent partner due to its ability to check most Rock-types and use Rapid Spin versus Regirock and Mudsdale. Thanks to Scyther's good damage output with a Choice Band, it supports physical setup sweepers quite nicely; Lycanroc is a good example, with Scyther punching holes into Gurdurr and chipping down Tangela with U-turn. Scyther also welcomes Fighting-type Pokemon like Gurdurr and Hitmonchan as teammates, since they are able to break past Steel- and Rock-types like Alolan Sandslash and Carracosta without having Scyther locking itself into Brick Break. Gurdurr can also act as a bulky setup sweeper and become a wincon thanks to Scyther chipping down defensive Pokemon like Mudsdale. Furthermore, Hitmonchan can use Rapid Spin to help out with Scyther's Stealth Rock weakness. Victreebel is a notable offensive partner for its ability to pressure nearly all of Scyther's offensive and defensive checks such as Choice Scarf Primeape and Jellicent.

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

Bug Bite is another option as a last move on both the Choice Band and Choice Scarf sets as a secondary Bug-type STAB attack that doesn't force Scyther out, but it is rarely worthwhile. Scyther can afford to go a fully offensive Swords Dance set with an EV spread of 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe with a Jolly nature and either Buginium Z or Fightinium Z to lure in traditional checks like Carracosta and Regirock and remove them with a boosted Z-Move. However, since Scyther loses much of its bulk when not running Eviolite or HP investment and becomes more vulnerable to the Pokemon it's supposed to be checking like Hitmonchan, a bulky Swords Dance set is preferred. Utilizing Technician Quick Attack as a fourth move gives Scyther a revenge killing tool to dispatch weakened faster threats such as Dodrio. However, it is still very weak and exploitable. Tailwind can give the Choice Scarf set more utility in order for Scyther's teammates to sweep, and it should be used on the same turn Scyther is KOed. However, locking Scyther into a status move makes it very exploitable, and it automatically leaves the player one Pokemon down.

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

**Stealth Rock**: Scyther loses half its health upon switching into Stealth Rock. This is a huge detriment for Scyther, as it cannot perform its roles consistently and makes it a liability on teams.

**Rock-type Pokemon**: Bulky Rock-type Pokemon such as Regirock and Carracosta easily switch into Scyther's attacks and threaten it out with super effective STAB attacks. Lycanroc and Choice Scarf Kabutops can outspeed non-Choice Scarf Scyther and threaten it with Stone Edge, and Lycanroc can pressure Choice Scarf variants with Accelerock.

**Steel-types**: Steel-types like Alolan Sandslash and Aggron resist Scyther's STAB combination, and the latter scares Scyther with its strong 4x super effective Head Smash. However, both of the aforementioned Pokemon can be caught off guard by Brick Break. While rare, Mawile completely walls everything Scyther has to offer.

**Physically Bulky Pokemon**: Mudsdale, Jellicent, and Sableye are all capable of eating at least one attack from any Scyther set and crippling it with status.

**Faster Pokemon**: Alolan Raichu and Choice Scarf Abomasnow, among others, are capable of outspeeding and OHKOing non-Choice Scarf Scyther. Choice Scarf Dodrio can outspeed and KO all Scyther sets.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Toy Time King, 307004], [Megazard, 202117]]
- Quality checked by: [[Megazard, 202117], [yogi, 252106], [tondas, 442732]]
- Grammar checked by: [[The Dutch Plumberjack, 232216], [Rabia, 336073]]

 

[TTK]

This is ready for QC checks.

 

[MZ]

[OVERVIEW]

• Scyther's role in the PU metagame is designated to being a fast pivot with a good typing that is able to check the most dangerous pokemon in the metagame problematically vague since it's not a check to our only S rank such as Victreebel and Fighting-types such as Hitmonchan and Primeape.
• Scyther is able to run Eviolite successfully to increase its decent bulk to better help it check the aforementioned pokemon and enable it to be a bulky pivot which can carry out its role throughout the course of a game. why is eviolite a noteworthy selling point at all? You could talk about its bulky SD set and how that's nice, but framing it around eviolite is just confusing cuz u don't go "oh eviolite that means this is good"
• Scyther is also a potent Choice Scarf and Choice Band user, enabling it to be a decent revenge killer thanks to its already good speed tier and become a dangerous wallbreaker that pressures offensive pokemon in the tier such as Aurorus and Hitmonchan. super random example choice in aurorus, can't really tell why it's mentioned at all cuz it's not like scyther really checks it much
• Unfortunately, Scyther has a crippling x4 weakness to Stealth Rock and loses half its health upon switching in, severely limiting its capabilities and requires good hazard support to make it usable. i would really emphasize this with something really getting into that this is an absolutely massive hindrance because scyther just isnt reliable
• This leads Scyther to be easily pressured by the likes of Lycanroc, Aggron and Choice Scarf Primeape, which utilise Rock-type attacks. yes but this can basically be folded in to the lower bullet too, doesnt need to be its own thing
• Scyther's typing also leaves it vulnerable to common Ice-, Flying- and Electric- types such as Aurorus, Dodrio and Eelektross respectively, with the latter being extremely common and letting it get free momentum.
• Even with a Swords Dance set, Scyther cannot break the likes of Regirock and Mudsdale, the two most common Stealth Rock users and both easily force Scyther out.
• Overall, Scyther is quite a high risk high reward pokemon in the meta that often finds itself struggling to find a slot on teams due to its huge setbacks. this conclusion does nothing

[SET]
name: Bulky Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: U-turn
move 3: Aerial Ace
move 4: Roost
item: Eviolite
ability: Technician
nature: Jolly
evs: 248 HP / 8 Atk / 252 Spe

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

• Swords Dance boosts Scyther's Attack stat and enables it to wallbreak through physically defensively pokemon in the tier such as Gurdurr. so obvious that SD just doesnt need a mention here
• U-turn is Scyther's main Bug STAB and lets it pivot out of poor matchups and keeps momentum going while also chipping pokemon such as Eelektross, which threatens you out.
• Aerial Ace rounds up Scyther's dual-STAB and is boosted by Technician and is super-effective against opposing Fighting-type pokemon such Hitmonchan and hits opposing Scyther.
• Roost helps Scyther stay healthy and increases its longevity. Furthermore, Roost helps alleviate Scyther's Rock Weakness when switching in roost is also one of those well known things that dont need explaining

Set Details
========

• Maximum Speed investment with a Jolly nature make Scyther as fast as possible and enables Scyther to outspeed pokemon like Haunter and Simisear. same with the concept of max speed where it clearly makes sense. like you explain hp because that might be surprising but you no longer need the speed bullet
• 248 HP EVs ensure Scyther is as bulky as possible in conjunction with Eviolite, letting it better switch into opposing foes like Hitmonchan which carry coverage to hit Scyther so it can heal the next turn. This amount of HP investment also allows Scyther to switch into Stealth Rock at least twice.
• Eviolite increases Scyther's natural bulk. you already mentioned eviolite in the bullet above so this isnt needed
• Technician is the preferred ability over Swarm in order to boost Aerial Ace's base power to 90. dont specify the BP, just say it makes ace stronger. just not a useful detail

Usage Tips
========

• Scyther utilises its bulk and typing to act as a decent Fighting-type check and should be used to pivot into these pokemon or other weak pokemon it checks/can set up on? and maybe give better examples since it only really does amazing against the one fighting type? to grant momentum opportunities for its teammates or use them as setup opportunity using Swords Dance.
• It is not recommended to switch in Scyther when Stealth Rock are present on the field, as losing half of its HP is quite detrimental and reduces its longevity and stops it performing its role. It also places Scyther in situations where it must Roost to recover its health and that potentially allows opposing pokemon to gain momentum against it.
• In the early- to mid- game, Scyther should be chipping opposing pokemon with U-turn so its teammates have a easier time to sweep or wallbreak. rather than explain what u-turn does, explain why it's actually better to chip things with u-turn early game over trying to SD, that's something people might not immediately get, and explaining how this functions as a kind of mix between potential wincon and weak pivot breaker is probably the most important thing that could go in UT here
• It is not best to bring in Scyther against status ailment users like Sableye and Jellicent, whose Will-O-Wisp cripple Scyther and reduce its damage.

Team Options
========

• Scyther is best found on offensive teams who require a fast pivot to gain momentum and also appreciate its typing in order to check Grass- and Fighting-types in the tier. Fast pivots such as Silvally-Dragon form a Volt-turn core with Scyther and Scyther appreciates the Fire and Electric resistances Silvally-Dragon offers. Silvally-Dragon also pressures common Stealth Rock users like Mudsdale and Regirock and removes their hazards, helping Scyther improve its longevity.
• Eelektross is also a notable pokemon that forms a solid Volt-turn core with Scyther which is also able to pressure pokemon Scyther hates like Tangela.
• Scyther also works well with wallbreakers such as Stoutland. Scyther is able to check Fighting-types like Hitmonchan which give Stoutland and in return, Stoutland can break through the Steel-types that completely wall Scyther such as Aggron and Alolan Sandslash.

give at least 2 examples of removers and breakers it pairs well with, talk about the defensive support it might need too

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: U-turn
move 2: Aerial Ace
move 3: Brick Break
move 4: Knock Off / Toxic
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Technician
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

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

• U-turn is a potent revenge killing move that allows Scyther to get in its teammates once it has finished off an opposing pokemon. this is massively overselling a move that you dont even need to mention here at all.
• Aerial Ace is Scyther's strongest Flying-STAB attack which does good damage to opposing Scyther and Grass- and Fighting-types such as Lurantis and Primeape respectively. this also doesnt have to be here
• Brick Break enables Scyther to hit Steel-types such as Alolan Sandslash, ohkos Aurorus and deals with Aggron.
• Knock Off is a good move to cripple more defensive pokemon such as Clefairy and Audino.
• Toxic is a good option in order to cripple Scyther's standard checks like Regirock, which shrugs off all of Scyther's attacks.

Set Details
========

• Maximum Attack and Speed investment with a Jolly nature in conjunction with Choice Scarf allow Scyther to be as fast as possible and have a maximum damage output. Thanks to Choice Scarf, Scyther is able to outspeed +2 Modest nature Ludicolo under rain and +2 positive speed nature Alolan Sandslash as well as other speed boosting pokemon like +1 Jynx, +2 Victreebel and Choice Scarf Primeape. the attack stuff can be dropped, the good bit here is the speed benchmarks
• Technician helps boost Aerial Ace's average base power for it to become a strong STAB attack. once technician was already mentioned, this onset feel necessary

Usage Tips
========

• Choice Scarf Scyther should be primarily used to revenge kill weakned pokemon and pivot out with U-turn in order to get in its teammates.
• It can be brought in against weakned pokemon that usually outspeed it like Alolan Raichu and threaten them out and then proceed to U-turn. this bullet can probably just be deleted? I dont entirely get why it exists tbh, the above one says the same thing
• The Scyther user should be aware of what it is locked into as Toxic can easily be played around with opposing Steel- and Poison-types like Aggron and Haunter and it drains momentum.
• Because Scyther is not running Eviolite, it is not as bulky as it could be so it is advised to only bring in Scyther on resisted moves like Lurantis' Leaf Storm and Gurdurr's Drain Punch.

probably wanna emphasize how this is not strong and very reliant on SE moves or pivoting away from things that would kill it after they tanked anything

Team Options
========

• Hazard removal is vital when utilising Scyther. Defog support from the likes of Lurantis is beneficial for Scyther in many ways. Lurantis is a good check against Mudsdale and Regirock, which heavily pressure Scyther. Hitmonchan is also a good hazard remover to pair with Scyther as it can take the brunt of attacks from special attackers like Simisear and Aurorus and threaten them out.
• Scyther also appreciates hazard support from pokemon like Regirock, which chip opposing pokemon which makes it easier for Scyther to perform its role as a revenge killer.
• Special wallbreakers like Drampa are good teammates for Scyther as they heavily pressure physical walls like Tangela and Sableye, which Scyther has trouble breaking through. In return, Scyther offers a Fighting-type resistance to Drampa and Drampa resists both Fire- and Electric-type attacks for Scyther.

needs a better explanation of on what team you'd run this set, specifically these weird volt turns that really want the high speed control since otherwise it's a super weak poorly typed rocks weak thing that seems really unattractive. or maybe that's hjad rubbing off

[SET]
name: Choice Band
move 1: U-turn
move 2: Aerial Ace
move 3: Brick Break
move 4: Knock Off / Pursuit
item: Choice Band
ability: Technician
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

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

• U-turn is Scyther's strong pivoting option with being augmented by Choice Band, inflicts good damage on less bulky pokemon. same as before
• Aerial Ace is Scyther's other STAB which pressures Fighting- and Grass-types without forcing it off the field. same as before
• Brick Break is coverage against Steel-types like Aggron which wall Scyther otherwise.
• Knock Off cripples defensive answers to Scyther like Tangela and Mudsdale, removing vital items from each of them.
• Pursuit is a nice option to punish Ghost-types like Silvally-Ghost and Haunter who would want to swap out against Scyther when weakened.

Set Details
========

• Maximum Attack alongside a Choice Band enable Scyther to become a dangerous wallbreaker. this doesnt need to be here
• Maximum Speed investment with a Jolly nature allow Scyther to outspeed a good proportion of the meta and also allow it to speed tie with Manectric and opposing Scyther.
• Technician is the ability of choice to boost Aerial Ace's damage output and also boosts Pursuit's power when the opposing pokemon does not opt to switch out.

Usage Tips
========

• Scyther should be used early- to mid-game to punch holes into opposing defensive pokemon like Qwilfish to easen the the job of its teammates.
• Scyther lacks recovery on this set so it is wise not to switch it in too much into neutral attacks and switch it in often to resisted hits from Gurdurr used him as an example last time and Roselia.
• Pursuit should be used when predicting a switch from the opposing pokemon when Scyther has the advantage over it for example when facing Haunter or weakened pokemon like Simisear, who cannot take one Aerial Ace. this is obvious, people know what pursuit does, to be worth having a bullet you need to say more about it. and there is definitely more that could be said than just explaining what it does
• Choice Band Scyther relies on good prediction and can destroy teams that are unaware of its set. Predicting a Steel-type like Alolan Sandslash to come in on an expected U-turn or Aerial Ace is beneficial.

Team Options
========

• Once again, Defog support from pokemon such as Silvally-Ghost and Lurantis is essential for maintaining Scyther's longevity and reliability as a wallbreaker and pivot. Silvally-Ghost is a more reliable Fighting-type check that can cover Scyther for the coverage they like to run, for example Primeape's Stone Edge or Hitmonchan's Thunder Punch and can retaliate back for good damage.
• Fighting-types are good partners for Scyther. Crabominable can break past Steel- and Rock- types like Probopass and Lycanroc. Gurdurr absorbs status and sets up and Primeape is a fast revenge killer that pairs well with Scyther's U-tun.

defensive partners? sweepers? other volt turners? better hazard removal options than ghostvally and lurantis because why are those the only 2 mentions and they dont even pair well with this at all? this does not need to be this short at all

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

• Bug Bite is another option as a last move on both the Choice Band and Scarf set but it is out of favor for Knock Off or Pursuit, which provide much greater utility than having another STAB that doesn't force Scyther out.
• Scyther can afford to go a fully offensive Swords Dance set with a 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe with a Jolly nature in addition with either Bugnium-Z or Fightinium-Z in order to lure in traditional checks like Carracosta and Regirock and kill them with a +2 Attack boosted Z-move. However, Scyther loses much of its bulk when not running Eviolite and it becomes more vulnerable to the pokemon it's supposed to be checking like Hitmonchan so a bulky Swords Dance set is preferred.

QA on band, tailwind on scarf

Checks and Counters
===================
where are the asterisks around the categories? It should be like "**Stealth Rock:**
Stealth Rock: Scyther loses half its health upon switching into Stealth Rock and this hinders it greatly. please say anything more about this, especially when you've used the same exact phrase in "hinders it greatly" too many times in this analysis already

Rock-type Pokemon: Bulky Rock-type pokemon such as Regirock and Carracosta easily switch into Scyther's attacks and threaten it out with super-effective STAB attacks. Offensive Rock-types like Lycanroc are able to outspeed non-Choice Scarf Scyther and threaten it with Stone Edge or Accelerock.

Steel-types: Steel-types like Alolan Sandslash and Aggron resist Scyther's dual-STAB and the latter scares Scyther with its strong x4 super-effective Head Smash i think this is missing a period here? however both of the aforementioned pokemon fear Brick Break from Scyther so they must switch into a choice-locked Scyther when it uses its STAB.

Physically Bulky Pokemon: Mudsdale, Jellicent and Sableye are all capable of eating at least one attack from any Scyther set and cripple it with coverage in Mudsdale's case or status that weakens Scyther's damage output.

Faster Pokemon: Scyther may have a good speed tier but it is still outsped by Dodrio and Alolan Raichu, which threaten it out with super-effective STAB attacks. Choice Scarf pokemon like Primeape and Aurorus have the ability to outspeed non-Choice Scarf Scyther and deal fatal damage to it with Stone Edge and Blizzard respectively.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Toy Time King, 307004]]
- Quality checked by: [[<username1>, <userid1>], [<username2>, <userid2>], [<username3>, <userid3>]]
- Grammar checked by: [[<username1>, <userid1>], [<username2>, <userid2>]]

would like to check up on this again before stamping, let me know when you've implemented the check

 

[TTK]

bumping this Megazard

 

[MZ]

[OVERVIEW]

• Scyther's role in the PU metagame is designated to being a fast pivot with a good typing that is able to check pokemon in the metagame such as Victreebel and Fighting-types such as Hitmonchan and Primeape. the grammar doesnt make sense here, you fixed the issue i pointed out by just replacing words and not improving the bullet. it's not written up yet but still make sure ur on top of this
• Scyther is able to run a bulky Swords Dance set in conjunction with Eviolite to increase its decent bulk to better help it check the aforementioned pokemon and enable it to be a bulky pivot and break defensive cores which can carry out its role throughout the course of a game.
• Scyther is also a potent Choice Scarf and Choice Band user, enabling it to be a decent revenge killer thanks to its already good speed tier and become a dangerous wallbreaker that pressures offensive pokemon in the tier such as Hitmonchan.
• Unfortunately, Scyther has a crippling x4 weakness to Stealth Rock and loses half its health upon switching in, severely limiting its capabilities and requires good hazard support to make it usable. This leads Scyther to be easily pressured by the likes of Lycanroc, Aggron and Choice Scarf Primeape, which utilise Rock-type attacks.
• Scyther's typing also leaves it vulnerable to common Ice-, Flying- and Electric- types such as Aurorus, Dodrio and Eelektross respectively, with the latter being extremely common and letting it get free momentum.
• Even with a Swords Dance set, Scyther cannot break the likes of Regirock and Mudsdale, the two most common Stealth Rock users and both easily force Scyther out. yeah just be sure to emphasize how this gets walled and hit super effectively by a really large portion of the tier so it just struggles a lot at matchup

[SET]
name: Bulky Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: U-turn
move 3: Aerial Ace
move 4: Roost
item: Eviolite
ability: Technician
nature: Jolly
evs: 248 HP / 8 Atk / 252 Spe

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

• U-turn is Scyther's main Bug STAB and lets it pivot out of poor matchups and keeps momentum going while also chipping pokemon such as Eelektross, which threatens you out.
• Aerial Ace rounds up Scyther's dual-STAB and is boosted by Technician and is super-effective against opposing Fighting-type pokemon such Hitmonchan and hits opposing Scyther.

Set Details
========

• 248 HP EVs ensure Scyther is as bulky as possible in conjunction with Eviolite, letting it better switch into opposing foes like Hitmonchan which carry coverage to hit Scyther so it can heal the next turn. This amount of HP investment also allows Scyther to switch into Stealth Rock at least twice.
• Eviolite increases Scyther's natural bulk.
• Technician is the preferred ability over Swarm in order to boost Aerial Ace's damage.

Usage Tips
========

• Scyther utilises its bulk and typing to act as a decent Fighting-type check and pivots into these pokemon in addition to pokemon such as Lurantis and Claydol in order to grant momentum opportunities for its teammates or use them as setup opportunity using Swords Dance.
• It is not recommended to switch in Scyther when Stealth Rock are present on the field, as losing half of its HP is quite detrimental and reduces its longevity and stops it performing its role. It also places Scyther in situations where it must Roost to recover its health and that potentially allows opposing pokemon to gain momentum against it.
• In the early game, Scyther using U-turn is ideal in contrast into setting up with Swords Dance. Firstly, Scyther's teammates have an easier time beating opposing pokemon and also it benefits Scyther so it can set up Swords Dance and become a potential wincon in the mid- and late-game.
• It is not best to bring in Scyther against status ailment users like Sableye and Jellicent, whose Will-O-Wisp cripple Scyther and reduce its damage.

Team Options
========

• Scyther is best found on offensive teams who require a fast pivot to gain momentum and also appreciate its typing in order to check Grass- and Fighting-types in the tier. Fast pivots such as Silvally-Dragon form a Volt-turn core with Scyther and Scyther appreciates the Fire and Electric resistances Silvally-Dragon offers. Silvally-Dragon also pressures common Stealth Rock users like Mudsdale and Regirock and removes their hazards, helping Scyther improve its longevity.
• Eelektross is also a notable pokemon that forms a solid Volt-turn core with Scyther which is also able to pressure pokemon Scyther hates like Tangela.
• Hazard removal is key when using Scyther and teammates such as Skuntank and the aforementioned Silvally-Dragon help Scyther to improve its longevity.
• Scyther also works well with wallbreakers such as Stoutland. Scyther is able to check Fighting-types like Hitmonchan which give Stoutland and in return, Stoutland can break through the Steel-types that completely wall Scyther such as Aggron and Alolan Sandslash.
• Furthermore, Omastar pairs well with Scyther. Omastar appreciates getting in for free and Omastar is a Flying and Fire resist for Scyther while Scyther checks the Grass-types that harass Omastar like Victreebel and Abomasnow.
• On the defensive side, Regirock is a nice partner for Scyther because it can check pokemon like Dodrio and Lycanroc, two pokemon that heavily pressure this Scyther set. Regirock, in addition to checking these dangerous threats, sets up hazards for Scyther and helps chip opposing pokemon for Scyther.

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: U-turn
move 2: Aerial Ace
move 3: Brick Break
move 4: Knock Off / Toxic
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Technician
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

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

• Brick Break enables Scyther to hit Steel-types such as Alolan Sandslash, ohkos Aurorus and deals with Aggron.
• Knock Off is a good move to cripple more defensive pokemon such as Clefairy and Audino.
• Toxic is a good option in order to cripple Scyther's standard checks like Regirock, which shrugs off all of Scyther's attacks.

Set Details
========

• Maximum Speed investment with a Jolly nature in conjunction with Choice Scarf allow Scyther to be as fast as possible. Thanks to Choice Scarf, Scyther is able to outspeed +2 Modest nature Ludicolo under rain and +2 positive speed nature Alolan Sandslash as well as other speed boosting pokemon like +1 Jynx, +2 Victreebel and Choice Scarf Primeape.

Usage Tips
========

• Choice Scarf Scyther should be primarily used to revenge kill weakened pokemon and pivot out with U-turn in order to get in its teammates.
• The Scyther user should be aware of what it is locked into as Toxic can easily be played around with opposing Steel- and Poison-types like Aggron and Haunter and it drains momentum.
• Because Scyther is not running Eviolite, it is not as bulky as it could be so it is advised to only bring in Scyther on resisted moves like Lurantis' Leaf Storm and Gurdurr's Drain Punch.
• Choice Scarf Scyther is a risky set to utilise on teams and this set has to rely on super-effective moves and pivoting out with U-turn against pokemon that will handle it without much trouble. emphasize more how u really need to be pivoting constantly save for specific revenge killing or cleaning situations cuz otherwise it's just super super weak and abusable

Team Options
========

• This Scyther set fits on Volturn bulky unsure why bulky is specified offense teams that appreciate a fast pivot to bring in slower wallbreakers.
• Hazard removal is vital when utilising Scyther. Defog support from the likes of Lurantis is beneficial for Scyther in many ways. Lurantis is a good check against Mudsdale and Regirock, which heavily pressure Scyther. Hitmonchan is also a good hazard remover to pair with Scyther as it can take the brunt of attacks from special attackers like Simisear and Aurorus and threaten them out.
• Scyther also appreciates hazard support from pokemon like Regirock, which chip opposing pokemon which makes it easier for Scyther to perform its role as a revenge killer.
• Special wallbreakers like Drampa are good teammates for Scyther as they heavily pressure physical walls like Tangela and Sableye, which Scyther has trouble breaking through. In return, Scyther offers a Fighting-type resistance to Drampa and Drampa resists both Fire- and Electric-type attacks for Scyther.

[SET]
name: Choice Band
move 1: U-turn
move 2: Aerial Ace
move 3: Brick Break
move 4: Knock Off / Pursuit
item: Choice Band
ability: Technician
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

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

• Brick Break is coverage against Steel-types like Aggron which wall Scyther otherwise.
• Knock Off cripples defensive answers to Scyther like Tangela and Mudsdale, removing vital items from each of them.
• Pursuit is a nice option to punish Ghost-types like Silvally-Ghost and Haunter who would want to swap out against Scyther when weakened.

Set Details
========

• Maximum Speed investment with a Jolly nature allow Scyther to outspeed a good proportion of the meta and also allow it to speed tie with Manectric and opposing Scyther.
• Technician is the ability of choice to boost Aerial Ace's damage output and also boosts Pursuit's power when the opposing pokemon does not opt to switch out.

Usage Tips
========

• Scyther should be used early- to mid-game to punch holes into opposing defensive pokemon like Qwilfish to easen the the job of its teammates.
• Choice Band Scyther relies on good prediction and can destroy teams that are unaware of its set. Predicting a Steel-type like Alolan Sandslash to come in on an expected U-turn or Aerial Ace is beneficial.

this is too short because you just nuked the bullets i had improvements for instead of improving them. put more here pls

Team Options
========

• Scyther pairs well with Volt Switch users like Lanturn and Eelektross, who are able to pressure Scyther's defensive checks like Regirock and Sableye.
• Hazard removal is a necessity in order to utilise Scyther to the fullest. Lurantis is a good example of removal that Scyther appreciates. Lurantis helps out against Rock-types like Regirock and Carracosta and also pressures Jellicent, who can cripple Scyther with status and indefinitely wall it.
• Thanks to Scyther's good damage output with a Choice Band, it allows sweepers to have an easier job. Lycanroc is a good sweeper that pairs with Scyther thanks to Scyther punching holes into Gurdurr and chipping down Tangela with U-turn.
• Scyther welcomes Fighting-type pokemon like Gurdurr and Hitmonchan as teammates since they are able to break past Steel- and Rock-types like Alolan Sandslash and Carracosta without having Scyther locking itself into Brick Break. Gurdurr can also act as a bulky setup sweeper and become a wincon thanks to Scyther chipping down defensive pokemon like Mudsdale. Furthermore, Hitmonchan can use Rapid Spin to help out Scyther's Stealth Rock weakness.

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

• Bug Bite is another option as a last move on both the Choice Band and Scarf set but it is out of favor for Knock Off or Pursuit, which provide much greater utility than having another STAB that doesn't force Scyther out.
• Scyther can afford to go a fully offensive Swords Dance set with a 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe with a Jolly nature in addition with either Bugnium-Z or Fightinium-Z in order to lure in traditional checks like Carracosta and Regirock and kill them with a +2 Attack boosted Z-move. However, Scyther loses much of its bulk when not running Eviolite and it becomes more vulnerable to the pokemon it's supposed to be checking like Hitmonchan so a bulky Swords Dance set is preferred.
• Utilising Quick Attack as a fourth move lets Scyther have a revenge-killing tool to dispatch weakened threats which are faster such as Dodrio. Quick Attack is useful because it is boosted by Technician, dealing more damage.
• Tailwind on the Choice Scarf set gives the set more utility in order for Scyther's teammates to sweep. However, the problems with Scyther still remain and Scyther is forced to switch out, giving the opponent momentum. nah i would specify it's specifically as a suicide option, you use it on the turn they KO you

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

**Stealth Rock**: Scyther loses half its health upon switching into Stealth Rock. again, you just deleted the problem part but never actually fixed this so it's still too short. that's not implementing the suggestion

**Rock-type Pokemon**: Bulky Rock-type pokemon such as Regirock and Carracosta easily switch into Scyther's attacks and threaten it out with super-effective STAB attacks. Offensive Rock-types like Lycanroc are able to outspeed non-Choice Scarf Scyther and threaten it with Stone Edge or Accelerock.

**Steel-types**: Steel-types like Alolan Sandslash and Aggron resist Scyther's dual-STAB and the latter scares Scyther with its strong x4 super-effective Head Smash. However both of the aforementioned pokemon fear Brick Break from Scyther so they must switch into a choice-locked Scyther when it uses its STAB.

**Physically Bulky Pokemon**: Mudsdale, Jellicent and Sableye are all capable of eating at least one attack from any Scyther set and cripple it with coverage in Mudsdale's case or status that weakens Scyther's damage output.

**Faster Pokemon**: Scyther may have a good speed tier but it is still outsped by Dodrio and Alolan Raichu, which threaten it out with super-effective STAB attacks. Choice Scarf pokemon like Primeape and Aurorus have the ability to outspeed non-Choice Scarf Scyther and deal fatal damage to it with Stone Edge and Blizzard respectively.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Toy Time King, 307004]]
- Quality checked by: [[<username1>, <userid1>], [<username2>, <userid2>], [<username3>, <userid3>]] me in here
- Grammar checked by: [[<username1>, <userid1>], [<username2>, <userid2>]]

do the above and it's 1/3

 

[yogi]

[OVERVIEW]

• Scyther is a mediocre choice in the PU metagame and primarily functions as a decent pivot and checks good pokemon in the tier such as Gurdurr, Hitmonchan and Victreebel. (the first bit makes it seem like it heavily contradicts the second. i'd lean towards calling it a niche pick instead) (now i know it technically does check gurdurr but scyther HATES knock off so maybe change it)
• Scyther is able to run a bulky Swords Dance set in conjunction with Eviolite to increase its decent bulk to better help it check the aforementioned pokemon and enable it to be a bulky pivot and break defensive cores which can carry out its role throughout the course of a game. (list some pls)
• Scyther is also a potent Choice Scarf and Choice Band user, enabling it to be a decent revenge killer thanks to its already good speed tier and become a dangerous wallbreaker that pressures offensive pokemon in the tier such as Hitmonchan. (i'd split these up and ever so slightly expand please)
• Unfortunately, Scyther has a crippling x4 weakness to Stealth Rock and loses half its health upon switching in, severely limiting its capabilities and requires good hazard support to make it usable. This leads Scyther to be easily pressured by the likes of Lycanroc, Aggron and Choice Scarf Primeape, which utilise Rock-type attacks. (tho scarf ape loses to scarf scyther)
• Scyther's typing also leaves it vulnerable to common Ice-, Flying- and Electric- types such as Aurorus, Dodrio and Eelektross respectively, with the latter being extremely common and letting it get free momentum, making Scyther quite vulnerable to the meta at large. (i mean i'd rather slash be mentioned over aurorus as u can just turn on it most of the time, yh ik the scarf aurorus vs non scarf scyther scenario but still)
• Even with a Swords Dance set, Scyther cannot break through common defensive options in the tier such as Regirock, Mudsdale and Sableye, which leads to Scyther really struggling in a lot of matchups.

[SET]
name: Bulky Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: U-turn
move 3: Aerial Ace
move 4: Roost
item: Eviolite
ability: Technician
nature: Jolly
evs: 248 HP / 8 Atk / 252 Spe

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

• U-turn is Scyther's main Bug STAB and lets it pivot out of poor matchups and keeps momentum going while also chipping pokemon such as Eelektross, which threatens you out.
• Aerial Ace rounds up Scyther's dual-STAB and is boosted by Technician and is super-effective against opposing Fighting-type pokemon such Hitmonchan and hits opposing Scyther.

Set Details
========

• 248 HP EVs ensure Scyther is as bulky as possible in conjunction with Eviolite, letting it better switch into opposing foes like Hitmonchan which carry coverage to hit Scyther so it can heal the next turn. This amount of HP investment also allows Scyther to switch into Stealth Rock at least twice.
• Eviolite increases Scyther's natural bulk. (fluff)
• Technician is the preferred ability over Swarm in order to boost Aerial Ace's damage.

Usage Tips
========

• Scyther utilises its bulk and typing to act as a decent Fighting-type check and pivots into these pokemon in addition to pokemon such as Lurantis and Claydol in order to grant momentum opportunities for its teammates or use them as setup opportunity using Swords Dance.
• It is not recommended to switch in Scyther when Stealth Rock are present on the field, as losing half of its HP is quite detrimental and reduces its longevity and stops it performing its role. It also places Scyther in situations where it must Roost to recover its health and that potentially allows opposing pokemon to gain momentum against it.
• In the early game, Scyther using U-turn is ideal in contrast into setting up with Swords Dance. Firstly, Scyther's teammates have an easier time beating opposing pokemon and also it benefits Scyther so it can set up Swords Dance and become a potential wincon in the mid- and late-game.
• It is not best to bring in Scyther against status ailment users like Sableye and Jellicent, whose Will-O-Wisp cripple Scyther and reduce its damage.

the main thing about sd scyther is how it's often able to abuse a load of weaker and resisted pokemon. clef, skunk, vic, rocks tort. its suprising bulk lets it sponge a ton of shit and help soft check a lot too

Team Options
========

• Scyther is best found on offensive teams who require a fast pivot to gain momentum and also appreciate its typing in order to check Grass- and Fighting-types in the tier. Fast pivots such as Silvally-Dragon form a Volt-turn core with Scyther and Scyther appreciates the Fire and Electric resistances Silvally-Dragon offers. Silvally-Dragon also pressures common Stealth Rock users like Mudsdale and Regirock and removes their hazards, helping Scyther improve its longevity. (idt silv dragon pressures them as much as you're making it out to. i'd rather mention water here if you're going down this route)
• Eelektross is also a notable pokemon that forms a solid Volt-turn core with Scyther which is also able to pressure pokemon Scyther hates like Tangela. (does... does scyther really hate tangela that much to warrant a stand-alone mention? not rlly imho)
• Hazard removal is key when using Scyther and teammates such as Skuntank and the aforementioned Silvally-Dragon help Scyther to improve its longevity. (put any form of removal at the top please) (i'd also be inclined to mention scarf slash, p good partner overall and checks a lot of the things that wreck scyther)
• Scyther also works well with wallbreakers such as Stoutland. Scyther is able to check Fighting-types like Hitmonchan which give Stoutland and in return, Stoutland can break through the Steel-types that completely wall Scyther such as Aggron and Alolan Sandslash.
• Furthermore, Omastar pairs well with Scyther. Omastar appreciates getting in for free and Omastar is a Flying and Fire resist for Scyther while Scyther checks the Grass-types that harass Omastar like Victreebel and Abomasnow. (expand this. oma absolutely smacks a load of standard checks to scyther) (oma isn't a flying or fire resist realllllly tho. the flying types fuck the offensive sets (defensive oma is trash) and all the decent fire types are either running focus blast or grass knot so yh. it's mainly just a good offensive partner)
• On the defensive side, Regirock is a nice partner for Scyther because it can check pokemon like Dodrio and Lycanroc, two pokemon that heavily pressure this Scyther set. Regirock, in addition to checking these dangerous threats, sets up hazards for Scyther and helps chip opposing pokemon for Scyther.

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: U-turn
move 2: Aerial Ace
move 3: Brick Break
move 4: Knock Off / Toxic
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Technician
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

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

• Brick Break enables Scyther to hit Steel-types such as Alolan Sandslash, ohkos Aurorus and deals with Aggron.
• Knock Off is a good move to cripple more defensive pokemon such as Clefairy and Audino.
• Toxic is a good option in order to cripple Scyther's standard checks like Regirock, which shrugs off all of Scyther's attacks. (say that being locked into this is ASS tho)

Set Details
========

• Maximum Speed investment with a Jolly nature in conjunction with Choice Scarf allow Scyther to be as fast as possible. Thanks to Choice Scarf, Scyther is able to outspeed +2 Modest nature Ludicolo under rain and +2 positive speed nature Alolan Sandslash as well as other speed boosting pokemon like +1 Jynx, +2 Victreebel (remove sun sucks) and Choice Scarf Primeape.

Usage Tips
========

• Choice Scarf Scyther should be primarily used to revenge kill weakened pokemon and pivot out with U-turn in order to get in its teammates. (i'd probably take a few from the last point and put them here, as it's p useless without examples)
• The Scyther user should be aware of what it is locked into as Toxic can easily be played around with opposing Steel- and Poison-types like Aggron and Haunter and it drains momentum.
• Because Scyther is not running Eviolite, it is not as bulky as it could be so it is advised to only bring in Scyther on resisted moves like Lurantis' Leaf Storm and Gurdurr's Drain Punch. (again, f bringing it in on gurdurr losing ur scarfer to a knock off sucks so much and i know everybody if they see a scyther would click knock)
• Choice Scarf Scyther is a risky set to utilise on teams due to the fact that all it really does is pivot in and out thanks to how abusable it is depending on what move it is locked into; and really only does something when it revenge kills certain pokemon like Victreebel or Aurorus.

Team Options
========

• This Scyther set fits on Volturn offense teams that appreciate a fast pivot to bring in slower wallbreakers. (this is so weird. you say this then don't mention ANY volt switch or u-turn users o_o) (tbh it can also fit on a few balance teams too)
• Hazard removal is vital when utilising Scyther. Defog support from the likes of Lurantis is beneficial for Scyther in many ways. Lurantis is a good check against Mudsdale and Regirock, which heavily pressure Scyther. Hitmonchan is also a good hazard remover to pair with Scyther as it can take the brunt of attacks from special attackers like Simisear and Aurorus and threaten them out.
• Scyther also appreciates hazard support from pokemon like Regirock, which chip opposing pokemon which makes it easier for Scyther to perform its role as a revenge killer.
• Special wallbreakers like Drampa are good teammates for Scyther as they heavily pressure physical walls like Tangela and Sableye, which Scyther has trouble breaking through. In return, Scyther offers a Fighting-type resistance to Drampa and Drampa resists both Fire- and Electric-type attacks for Scyther.

i'd probs expand this a little. scyther is often used on teams to help beat weather abusers while also smashing the most common scarf p hard, eel can honestly get another mention here it's just a fantastic partner overall.

[SET]
name: Choice Band
move 1: U-turn
move 2: Aerial Ace
move 3: Brick Break
move 4: Knock Off / Pursuit
item: Choice Band
ability: Technician
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

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

• Brick Break is coverage against Steel-types like Aggron which wall Scyther otherwise.
• Knock Off cripples defensive answers to Scyther like Tangela and Mudsdale, removing vital items from each of them.
• Pursuit is a nice option to punish Ghost-types like Silvally-Ghost and Haunter who would want to swap out against Scyther when weakened. (ok i'd honestly put suit down to only moves it just isn't nearly as good as knock)

Set Details
========

• Maximum Speed investment with a Jolly nature allow Scyther to outspeed a good proportion of the meta and also allow it to speed tie with Manectric and opposing Scyther. (fluff)
• Technician is the ability of choice to boost Aerial Ace's damage output and also boosts Pursuit's power when the opposing pokemon does not opt to switch out.

Usage Tips
========

• Scyther should be used early- to mid-game to punch holes into opposing defensive pokemon like Qwilfish to easen the the job of its teammates.
• Scyther lacks Roost on this set and is prone to getting worn down quite easily so it is ideal not to bring in Scyther on neutral attacks and let it come in on a passive pokemon that doesn't particularly threaten it, like Roselia or Lurantis.
• Pursuit is good to use in order to pressure weakened Psychic- or Ghost-types like Jynx and Haunter who do not want to stay in against a Scyther and Scyther is able to dispose of these dangerous wallbreakers, granting chances for its teammates who were pressured by these pokemon to do their roles (i know that jynx and haunter are ofc mons it hits super effective n all but like, they're pretty irrelevant aint they? i'd talk about other scenarios of suit trapping)
• knock off muds berry regi lefties makes it harder to continuosly check blah blah
• Choice Band Scyther relies on good prediction and can destroy teams that are unaware of its set. Predicting a Steel-type like Alolan Sandslash to come in on an expected U-turn or Aerial Ace is beneficial. (i mean, so is the momentum off of u-turn too?)

i honestly think u needa talk a little bit more about how easy it is still to abuse.

Team Options
========

• Scyther pairs well with Volt Switch users like Lanturn and Eelektross, who are able to pressure Scyther's defensive checks like Regirock and Sableye. (scyther in turn helps...)
• Hazard removal is a necessity in order to utilise Scyther to the fullest. Lurantis is a good example of removal that Scyther appreciates. Lurantis helps out against Rock-types like Regirock and Carracosta and also pressures Jellicent, who can cripple Scyther with status and indefinitely wall it. (move to the top, please also mention at least one other remover)
• Thanks to Scyther's good damage output with a Choice Band, it allows sweepers to have an easier job. Lycanroc is a good sweeper that pairs with Scyther thanks to Scyther punching holes into Gurdurr and chipping down Tangela with U-turn.
• Scyther welcomes Fighting-type pokemon like Gurdurr and Hitmonchan as teammates since they are able to break past Steel- and Rock-types like Alolan Sandslash and Carracosta without having Scyther locking itself into Brick Break. Gurdurr can also act as a bulky setup sweeper and become a wincon thanks to Scyther chipping down defensive pokemon like Mudsdale. Furthermore, Hitmonchan can use Rapid Spin to help out Scyther's Stealth Rock weakness. (i'd personally move chan to the hazard control section and talk about it soft checking both fire- and ice-types, mention scarf ape instead imo they work p well together)
• i'd be half tempted to mention victreebel as it fucks and absolute load of its checks and beats out shit like scarf ape.

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

• Bug Bite is another option as a last move on both the Choice Band and Scarf set but it is out of favor for Knock Off or Pursuit, which provide much greater utility than having another STAB that doesn't force Scyther out.
• Scyther can afford to go a fully offensive Swords Dance set with a 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe with a Jolly nature in addition with either Bugnium-Z or Fightinium-Z in order to lure in traditional checks like Carracosta and Regirock and kill them with a +2 Attack boosted Z-move. However, Scyther loses much of its bulk when not running Eviolite (and no hp lol) and it becomes more vulnerable to the pokemon it's supposed to be checking like Hitmonchan so a bulky Swords Dance set is preferred.
• Utilising Quick Attack as a fourth move lets Scyther have a revenge-killing tool to dispatch weakened threats which are faster such as Dodrio. Quick Attack is useful because it is boosted by Technician, dealing more damage. (but it's piss weak and SUPER SUPER SUPER abusable)
• Tailwind on the Choice Scarf set gives the set more utility in order for Scyther's teammates to sweep and it is really meant for use when Scyther is fainted on that same turn it uses it. However, Scyther is abused by the fact it locks itself into a status move and it automatically puts the player in a situation where you are one pokemon less.

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

**Stealth Rock**: Scyther loses half its health upon switching into Stealth Rock. This is a huge detriment for Scyther, as it cannot perform its roles consistently and makes it a liability on teams. (most sr pokemon are also able to directly abuse scyther and set up on its face)

**Rock-type Pokemon**: Bulky Rock-type pokemon such as Regirock and Carracosta easily switch into Scyther's attacks and threaten it out with super-effective STAB attacks. Offensive Rock-types like Lycanroc are able to outspeed non-Choice Scarf Scyther and threaten it with Stone Edge or Accelerock. (doesn't accelerock threaten it regardless?)

**Steel-types**: Steel-types like Alolan Sandslash and Aggron resist Scyther's dual-STAB and the latter scares Scyther with its strong x4 super-effective Head Smash. However both of the aforementioned pokemon fear Brick Break from Scyther so they must switch into a choice-locked Scyther when it uses its STAB. (last bit dont make total sense imo, i'd reword it because if you're staying in for something to then switch to ur resist after it's used its stab against whatever was in before ur like what?)

**Physically Bulky Pokemon**: Mudsdale, Jellicent and Sableye are all capable of eating at least one attack from any Scyther set and cripple it with coverage in Mudsdale's case or status that weakens Scyther's damage output. (sab also has prankster wisp)

**Faster Pokemon**: Scyther may have a good speed tier but it is still outsped by Dodrio and Alolan Raichu, which threaten it out with super-effective STAB attacks. Choice Scarf pokemon like Primeape and Aurorus have the ability to outspeed non-Choice Scarf Scyther and deal fatal damage to it with Stone Edge and Blizzard respectively. (scarf dodrio outspeeds all sets too)

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Toy Time King, 307004]]
- Quality checked by: [[Megazard, <userid1>], [<username2>, <userid2>], [<username3>, <userid3>]]
- Grammar checked by: [[<username1>, <userid1>], [<username2>, <userid2>]]

ok, qc 2/3

 

[tondas]

3/3

(taken over by Megazard)

[OVERVIEW]

Scyther is a mediocre choice in the PU metagame and primarily functions as a pivot capable of checking fairly common Fighting- and Grass-type Pokemon in the tier such as Gurdurr and Victreebel. Scyther is able to run a bulky Swords Dance set capable of using its bulk to check the aforementioned pokemon while simultaneously pressuring defensive cores reliant on Pokemon such as Sableye and Lanturn with its ability to pivot out while going for boosted attacks. It is also a potent Choice user (combine this with the next sentence? "potent" also seems to oversell it considering the overview calls it mediocre). Choice Scarf is an extremely fast pivot capable of revenge killing and gaining momentum quickly, while Choice Band allows Scyther to hit decently hard and can be difficult to handle defensively. Unfortunately, Scyther has a crippling x4 weakness to Stealth Rock and loses half its health upon switching in, severely limiting its capabilities and requiring good hazard support to make it usable. This also leads Scyther to be easily pressured by the likes of Lycanroc, Aggron and Choice Scarf Primeape, which utilize Rock-type attacks. Scyther's typing also leaves it vulnerable to common Ice-, Flying- and Electric- types such as Alolan Sandslash, Dodrio and Eelektross respectively, with the latter being extremely common and letting it get free momentum, making Scyther quite a generally poor choice in the metagame. Even with a Swords Dance set, Scyther cannot break through common defensive options in the tier such as Regirock and Mudsdale, which leads to Scyther really struggling in a lot of matchups.

[SET]
name: Bulky Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: U-turn
move 3: Aerial Ace
move 4: Roost
item: Eviolite
ability: Technician
nature: Jolly
evs: 248 HP / 8 Atk / 252 Spe

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

U-turn is Scyther's main Bug STAB and lets it pivot out of poor matchup and keeps momentum going. Aerial Ace rounds up Scyther's dual-STAB and allows it to hit Gurdurr super effectively.

Set Details
========

248 HP EVs ensure Scyther is as bulky as possible in conjunction with Eviolite, letting it better switch into opposing foes like Hitmonchan. This amount of HP investment also allows Scyther to survive switching into Stealth Rock twice.

Usage Tips
========

Scyther utilizes its bulk and typing to act as a decent check to a number of weaker attackers or type disadvantaged Pokemon. It is at its best switching into foes such as Lurantis, Claydol, or Clefairy, setting up a Swords Dance, and getting a boosted hit for free. However, it is not recommended to switch in Scyther when Stealth Rock are present on the field, as losing half of its HP is quite detrimental and reduces its longevity and stops it performing its role. It also places Scyther in situations where it must Roost to recover its health and that potentially allows opposing pokemon to gain momentum against Scyther if it cannot safely U-Turn. Scyther will also want to immediately pivot out with U-Turn rather than bothering to set up with Swords Dance when facing certain foes such as Regirock or defensive Alolan Sandslash that Scyther won't be doing much damage to regardless. It is not best to bring in Scyther against status ailment users like Sableye and Jellicent, whose Will-O-Wisp cripple Scyther and reduce its damage.

Team Options
========

Scyther is best found on offensive teams who require a fast pivot to gain momentum and also appreciate its typing in order to check Grass- and Fighting-types in the tier. Hazard removal is key when using Scyther and teammates such as Skuntank and Choice Scarf Alolan Sandslash massively help Scyther to improve its longevity while still fitting well on the more offensive teams Scyther tends to find itself on. Fast pivots such as Silvally-Water form a Volt-turn core with Scyther and Scyther appreciates the Fire resistance Silvally-Water offers. Silvally-Water also pressures common Stealth Rock users like Mudsdale and Regirock and removes their entry hazards. Eelektross and Lanturn form solid Volt-Turn cores with Scyther and help check Electric- and Flying-types for it. Scyther also works well with wallbreakers such as Stoutland. Scyther is able to check Fighting-types like Hitmonchan which give Stoutland and in return, Stoutland can break through the Steel-types that completely wall Scyther such as Aggron and Alolan Sandslash. Omastar is another notable offensive partner for Scyther, as it pressures bulky Rock-, Ground-, and Steel-types quite well and can make good use of Scyther's pivoting abilities to find setup opportunities. On the defensive side, Regirock is a nice partner for Scyther because it can check Flying- and Rock-types such as Dodrio and Lycanroc, two pokemon that heavily pressure this Scyther set.

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: U-turn
move 2: Aerial Ace
move 3: Brick Break
move 4: Knock Off / Toxic
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Technician
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

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

Brick Break enables Scyther to hit Steel-types such as Alolan Sandslash, ohkos Aurorus, and pressures Aggron. Knock Off is a useful move to cripple defensive pokemon such as Clefairy and Audino. Toxic is another nice utility option that can cripple Scyther's standard checks like Regirock. However, it can be extremely risky to lock Scyther into.

Set Details
========

Maximum Speed investment with a Jolly nature and Choice Scarf maximize Scyther's Speed, beating out Modest Ludicolo under rain, Z-Lovely Kiss Jynx after the boost, and Choice Scarf Primeape (note alolaslash in hail too).

Usage Tips
========

Choice Scarf Scyther should be primarily used to revenge kill weakened Pokemon or force out Bug-weak threats such as Alolan Raichu and gain momentum for its teammates. Be mindful before locking Scyther into any of its moves. Toxic can easily be played around, Brick Break and Knock Off are fairly weak and the latter is abusable by Z-move using setup sweepers, and even Aerial Ace provides Rock-types such as Lycanroc and Omastar a free setup opportunity. Scyther will need good prediction to switch into most attacks safely. It can pivot into Gurdurr's Drain Punch and Victreebel's Leaf Storm, but will not want to be hit by a Knock Off or Sludge Bomb, respectively. Choice Scarf Scyther is a risky set to utilize on teams due to the fact that all it really does is pivot in and out with somewhat weak chip damage and can provide setup opportunities for certain sweepers, it needs to be used extremely carefully so as not to give the opponent an upper hand.

Team Options
========

This Scyther set fits on Volturn offense teams that appreciate a fast pivot to bring in slower wallbreakers. Pairing it with other pivots such as Rotom-F is a must. Hazard removal is vital when utilising Scyther. Defog support from the likes of Lurantis is beneficial for Scyther in many ways. Lurantis is a good check against Mudsdale and Regirock, which heavily pressure Scyther. Hitmonchan is also a good hazard remover to pair with Scyther as it can take the brunt of attacks from special attackers like Simisear and Aurorus and threaten them out. Scyther also appreciates entry hazard support from pokemon such as Torterra, as the chip damage makes its pivoting noticeably more effective. Special wallbreakers like Drampa are good teammates for Scyther as they heavily pressure physical walls like Tangela and Sableye, which Scyther has trouble breaking through. Additionally, Scyther offers a Fighting-type resistance to Drampa and Drampa resists both Fire- and Electric-type attacks for Scyther.

[SET]
name: Choice Band
move 1: U-turn
move 2: Aerial Ace
move 3: Brick Break
move 4: Knock Off / Pursuit
item: Choice Band
ability: Technician
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

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

Brick Break is coverage against Steel-types like Aggron which wall Scyther otherwise. Knock Off cripples defensive answers to Scyther like Tangela and Mudsdale, removing vital items from each of them. Pursuit can also be used to trap and KO weakened or Dark-weak Pokemon, although Scyther is a mediocre user of the move (how come? note its lower power compared to other pursuit trappers if you must).

Set Details
========

Technician is the ability of choice to boost the damage output of Aerial Ace, as well as Pursuit if the opponent does not switch.

Usage Tips
========

Scyther should be used early- to mid-game to chip away at opposing defensive pokemon like Qwilfish and ease the the job of its teammates. Scyther lacks Roost on this set and is prone to getting worn down quite easily so it is ideal avoid switching Scyther into direct attacks whenever possible and never bring it in when Stealth Rock is up. Knock Off can be extremely rewarding to surprise opponents with, as it can destroy the passive recovery of Pokemon like Regirock and Mudsdale and make them significantly easier to wear down. Choice Band Scyther relies on good prediction and surprise factor. Predicting a Steel-type like Alolan Sandslash to come in on an expected U-turn or Aerial Ace and KOing it with Brick Break is the best way to maximize its power. However, despite its boosted power, Choice Band Scyther is still very easy to abuse if it locks itself into the wrong attack.

(uturn is also a good move to spam early on as it requires little prediction and even coverage cant break common switch-ins like mudsdale and regirock, and its just a powerful pivoting move that chips stuff for teammates that appreciate the momentum)

Team Options
========

Scyther pairs well with other pivots like Lanturn and Silvally-Dragon, which are able to pressure Scyther's defensive checks like Regirock and Sableye. Hazard removal is a necessity on any team with Scyther. Claydol can be a decent partner due to its ability to check most Rock-types and Rapid Spin versus Regirock and Mudsdale. Thanks to Scyther's good damage output with a Choice Band, it supports physical setup sweepers quite nicely. Lycanroc is a good sweeper that pairs with Scyther thanks to Scyther punching holes into Gurdurr and chipping down Tangela with U-turn. Scyther welcomes Fighting-type pokemon like Gurdurr and Hitmonchan as teammates since they are able to break past Steel- and Rock-types like Alolan Sandslash and Carracosta without having Scyther locking itself into Brick Break. Gurdurr can also act as a bulky setup sweeper and become a wincon thanks to Scyther chipping down defensive pokemon like Mudsdale. Furthermore, Hitmonchan can use Rapid Spin to help out Scyther's Stealth Rock weakness. Victreebel is a notable offensive partner for being able to pressure nearly all of Scyther's offensive and defensive checks such as Choice Scarf Primeape and Jellicent.

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

Bug Bite is another option as a last move on both the Choice Band and Scarf set as a secondary Bug-type STAB attack that that doesn't force Scyther out but provides utility than Knock Off or Pursuit (did you mean to say it doesnt provide utility?). Scyther can afford to go a fully offensive Swords Dance set with a 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe with a Jolly nature in addition with either Bugnium-Z or Fightinium-Z in order to lure in traditional checks like Carracosta and Regirock and kill them with a +2 Attack boosted Z-move. However, Scyther loses much of its bulk when not running Eviolite or HP investment and it becomes more vulnerable to the pokemon it's supposed to be checking like Hitmonchan so a bulky Swords Dance set is preferred. Utilising Quick Attack as a fourth move lets Scyther have a revenge-killing tool to dispatch weakened threats which are faster such as Dodrio. Quick Attack is useful because it is boosted by Technician, dealing more damage. However it is still very weak and abusable. Tailwind on the Choice Scarf set gives the set more utility in order for Scyther's teammates to sweep and it is really meant for use when Scyther is fainted on that same turn it uses it. However, Scyther is abused by the fact it locks itself into a status move and it automatically puts the player in a situation where you are one pokemon less.

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

**Stealth Rock**: Scyther loses half its health upon switching into Stealth Rock. This is a huge detriment for Scyther, as it cannot perform its roles consistently and makes it a liability on teams.

**Rock-type Pokemon**: Bulky Rock-type pokemon such as Regirock and Carracosta easily switch into Scyther's attacks and threaten it out with super-effective STAB attacks. Offensive Rock-types like Lycanroc are able to outspeed non-Choice Scarf Scyther and threaten it with Stone Edge or Accelerock.

**Steel-types**: Steel-types like Alolan Sandslash and Aggron resist Scyther's dual-STAB and the latter scares Scyther with its strong x4 super-effective Head Smash. However both of the aforementioned pokemon can be caught off guard by Brick Break. While rare, Mawile completely walls everything Scyther has to offer.

**Physically Bulky Pokemon**: Mudsdale, Jellicent and Sableye are all capable of eating at least one attack from any Scyther set and crippling it with status.

**Faster Pokemon**: Alolan Raichu and Choice Scarf Abomasnow are capable of outspeeding and OHKOing non-Choice Scarf Scyther, among others. Choice Scarf Dodrio can outspeed and KO all Scyther sets.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Toy Time King, 307004], [Megazard, 202117]]
- Quality checked by: [[Megazard, 202117], [yogi, 252106], [<username3>, <userid3>]]
- Grammar checked by: [[<username1>, <userid1>], [<username2>, <userid2>]]

 

[Cantius]

Amateur GP Check. Implement what you like, and feel free to express disagreement or give me advice.
add remove (comment) (AC) add comma (RC) remove comma (AH) add hyphen (RH) remove hyphen (SC) semicolon

Hide

[OVERVIEW]

Scyther is a mediocre choice in the PU metagame and primarily functions as a pivot capable of checking fairly common Fighting- and Grass-type Pokemon in the tier such as Gurdurr and Victreebel. Scyther is able to run a bulky Swords Dance set capable of using its bulk to check the aforementioned pokemon while simultaneously pressuring defensive cores reliant on Pokemon such as Sableye and Lanturn with its ability to pivot out while going for boosted attacks. It can also run a passable Choice Scarf set, being an extremely fast pivot capable of revenge killing and gaining momentum quickly, or manage a Choice Band set which can hit decently hard and be more difficult to handle defensively. Unfortunately, Scyther has a crippling x4 4x weakness to Stealth Rock and loses half its health upon switching in, severely limiting its capabilities and requiring good hazard removal support to make it usable. This also leads Scyther to be easily pressured by the likes of Lycanroc, Aggron (AC; Smogon analyses use the serial comma) and Choice Scarf Primeape, which utilize Rock-type attacks. Scyther's typing also leaves it vulnerable to common Ice-, Flying- and Electric- types such as Alolan Sandslash, Dodrio (AC) and Eelektross respectively, (doesn't remove ambiguity) with the latter being extremely common and letting it get getting free momentum from Scyther, (this seems to say that Eelektross lets Scyther get free momentum) making Scyther quite a generally poor choice in the metagame. Even with a Swords Dance set, Scyther cannot break through common defensive options in the tier such as Regirock and Mudsdale, which leads to Scyther really struggling in a lot of matchups.

[SET]
name: Bulky Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: U-turn
move 3: Aerial Ace
move 4: Roost
item: Eviolite
ability: Technician
nature: Jolly
evs: 248 HP / 8 Atk / 252 Spe

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

U-turn is Scyther's main Bug-type STAB move and lets it pivot out of poor matchups and keeps momentum going. Aerial Ace rounds up Scyther's dual-STAB (RH) moves and allows it to hit Gurdurr super effectively.

Set Details
========

248 HP EVs ensure Scyther is as bulky as possible in conjunction with Eviolite, letting it better switch into opposing foes like Hitmonchan. This amount of HP investment also allows Scyther to survive switching into Stealth Rock twice.

Usage Tips
========

Scyther utilizes its bulk and typing to act as a decent check to a number of weaker attackers or type disadvantaged (AH) Pokemon. It is at its best switching into foes such as Lurantis, Claydol, or Clefairy, setting up a Swords Dance, and getting a boosted hit for free. However, it is not recommended to switch in Scyther when Stealth Rock are is present on the field, as losing half of its HP is quite detrimental and reduces its longevity and stops it from performing its role. It also places Scyther in situations where it must Roost to recover its health (AC) and that potentially allows opposing Pokemon to gain momentum against Scyther if it cannot safely U-turn. Scyther will also want to immediately pivot out with U-turn rather than bothering to set up with Swords Dance when facing certain foes such as Regirock or defensive Alolan Sandslash that Scyther won't be doing much damage to regardless. It is not best to bring in Scyther against status ailment users like Sableye and Jellicent, whose Will-O-Wisp cripples Scyther and reduces its damage.

Team Options
========

Scyther is best found on offensive teams who that require a fast pivot to gain momentum and also appreciate its typing in order to check Grass- and Fighting-types in the tier. Hazard removal is key when using Scyther (AC) and teammates such as Skuntank and Choice Scarf Alolan Sandslash massively help Scyther to improve its longevity while still fitting well on the more offensive teams Scyther tends to find itself on. Fast pivots such as Silvally-Water form a Volt-Turn (RH) core with Scyther (AC) and Scyther appreciates the Fire resistance Silvally-Water offers. Silvally-Water also pressures common Stealth Rock users like Mudsdale and Regirock and removes their entry hazards. Eelektross and Lanturn form solid Volt-Turn (RH) cores with Scyther and help check Electric- and Flying-types for it. Scyther also works well with wallbreakers such as Stoutland. Scyther is able to check Fighting-types like Hitmonchan which give Stoutland (incomplete sentence) (AC) and in return, Stoutland can break through the Steel-types that completely wall Scyther such as Aggron and Alolan Sandslash. Omastar is another notable offensive partner for Scyther, as it pressures bulky Rock-, Ground-, and Steel-types quite well and can make good use of Scyther's pivoting abilities to find setup opportunities. On the defensive side, Regirock is a nice partner for Scyther because it can check Flying- and Rock-types such as Dodrio and Lycanroc, two pokemon that heavily pressure this Scyther set.

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: U-turn
move 2: Aerial Ace
move 3: Brick Break
move 4: Knock Off / Toxic
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Technician
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

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

Brick Break enables Scyther to hit Steel-types such as Alolan Sandslash, OHKO Aurorus, and pressure Aggron. Knock Off is a useful move to cripple defensive pokemon such as Clefairy and Audino. Toxic is another nice utility option that can cripple Scyther's standard checks like Regirock. However, it can be extremely risky to lock Scyther into.

Set Details
========

Maximum Speed investment with a Jolly nature and Choice Scarf maximize Scyther's Speed, beating out Modest Ludicolo under rain, Alolan Sandslash under hail, and Choice Scarf Primeape.

Usage Tips
========

Choice Scarf Scyther should be primarily used to revenge kill weakened Pokemon or force out Bug-weak threats such as Alolan Raichu and gain momentum for its teammates. Be mindful before locking Scyther into any of its moves. Toxic can easily be played around, Brick Break and Knock Off are fairly weak (AC) and the latter is abusable by Z-Move using (AH) setup sweepers, and even Aerial Ace provides Rock-types such as Lycanroc and Omastar a free setup opportunity. Scyther will need good prediction to switch into most attacks safely. It can pivot into Gurdurr's Drain Punch and Victreebel's Leaf Storm, but will not want to be hit by a Knock Off or Sludge Bomb, respectively. Choice Scarf Scyther is a risky set to utilize on teams due to the fact that all it really does is pivot in and out with somewhat weak chip damage and can provide setup opportunities for certain sweepers, (SC) it needs to be used extremely carefully so as not to give the opponent an upper hand.

Team Options
========

This Scyther set fits on Volturn VoltTurn offense teams that appreciate a fast pivot to bring in slower wallbreakers. Pairing it with other pivots such as Rotom-F is a must. Hazard removal is vital when utilising utilizing (Smogon analyses use American English spelling) Scyther. Defog support from the likes of Lurantis is beneficial for Scyther in many ways. Lurantis is a good check against Mudsdale and Regirock, which heavily pressure Scyther. Hitmonchan is also a good hazard remover to pair with Scyther as it can take the brunt of attacks from special attackers like Simisear and Aurorus and threaten them out. Scyther also appreciates entry hazard support from Pokemon such as Torterra, as the chip damage makes its pivoting noticeably more effective. Special wallbreakers like Drampa are good teammates for Scyther as they heavily pressure physical walls like Tangela and Sableye, which Scyther has trouble breaking through. Additionally, Scyther offers a Fighting-type resistance to Drampa (AC) and Drampa resists both Fire- and Electric-type attacks for Scyther.

[SET]
name: Choice Band
move 1: U-turn
move 2: Aerial Ace
move 3: Brick Break
move 4: Knock Off / Pursuit
item: Choice Band
ability: Technician
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

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

Brick Break is coverage against Steel-types like Aggron which wall Scyther otherwise. Knock Off cripples defensive answers to Scyther like Tangela and Mudsdale, removing vital items from each of them. Pursuit can also be used to trap and KO weakened or Dark-weak Pokemon, allowing Scyther to support its teammates at the cost of not being able to cripple its checks as well.

Set Details
========

Technician is the ability of choice to boost the damage output of Aerial Ace, as well as Pursuit if the opponent does not switch.

Usage Tips
========

Scyther should be used early- (RH; "early game", but "mid-game") to mid-game to chip away at opposing defensive pokemon like Qwilfish and ease the the job of its teammates. Scyther lacks Roost on this set and is prone to getting worn down quite easily (AC) so it is ideal avoid switching Scyther into direct attacks whenever possible and never bring it in when Stealth Rock is up. Scyther should mostly look to be brought in versus physically frail or Bug-weak Pokemon and pivot out with powerful U-turns to rack up as much chip damage as possible early on. Knock Off can be extremely rewarding to surprise opponents with, as it can destroy the passive recovery of Pokemon like Regirock and Mudsdale and make them significantly easier to wear down. Choice Band Scyther relies on good prediction and the surprise factor. Predicting a Steel-type like Alolan Sandslash to come in on an expected U-turn or Aerial Ace and KOing it with Brick Break is the best way to maximize its power. However, despite its boosted power, Choice Band Scyther is still very easy to be abused (this seems to say that even if you lock it into the wrong attack, you can still use it well) if it locks itself into the wrong attack.

Team Options
========

Scyther pairs well with other pivots like Lanturn and Silvally-Dragon, which are able to pressure Scyther's defensive checks like Regirock and Sableye. Hazard removal is a necessity on any team with Scyther. Claydol can be a decent partner due to its ability to check most Rock-types and Rapid Spin versus Regirock and Mudsdale. Thanks to Scyther's good damage output with a Choice Band, it supports physical setup sweepers quite nicely. Lycanroc is a good sweeper that pairs with Scyther thanks to Scyther punching holes into Gurdurr and chipping down Tangela with U-turn. Scyther welcomes Fighting-type pokemon like Gurdurr and Hitmonchan as teammates since they are able to break past Steel- and Rock-types like Alolan Sandslash and Carracosta without having Scyther locking itself into Brick Break. Gurdurr can also act as a bulky setup sweeper and become a wincon thanks to Scyther chipping down defensive pokemon like Mudsdale. Furthermore, Hitmonchan can use Rapid Spin to help out Scyther's Stealth Rock weakness. Victreebel is a notable offensive partner for being able to pressure nearly all of Scyther's offensive and defensive checks such as Choice Scarf Primeape and Jellicent.

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

Bug Bite is another option as a last move on both the Choice Band and Scarf sets as a secondary Bug-type STAB attack that that doesn't force Scyther out but is rarely worthwhile. Scyther can afford to go for a fully offensive Swords Dance set with a 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe EV spread with a Jolly nature in addition with to either Buginium-Z (RH) or Fightinium-Z (RH) in order to lure in traditional checks like Carracosta and Regirock and kill KO them with a +2 Attack boosted (AH) Z-Move. However, Scyther loses much of its bulk when not running Eviolite or HP investment (AC) and it becomes more vulnerable to the pokemon it's supposed to be checking like Hitmonchan (AC) so a bulky Swords Dance set is preferred. Utilising Utilizing Quick Attack as a fourth move lets Scyther have a revenge-killing (RH) tool to dispatch weakened threats which are faster such as Dodrio. Quick Attack is useful because it is boosted by Technician, dealing more damage. However (AC) it is still very weak and abusable. Tailwind on the Choice Scarf set gives the set more utility in order for Scyther's teammates to sweep (AC) and it is really meant for use when Scyther is fainted will faint on that the same turn it uses it. However, Scyther is abused by the fact that it locks itself into a status move (AC) and it automatically puts the player you (consistent with later use of you) in a situation where you are have one less Pokemon less.

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

**Stealth Rock**: Scyther loses half its health upon switching into Stealth Rock. This is a huge detriment for Scyther, as it cannot perform its roles consistently and makes it a liability on teams.

**Rock-type Pokemon**: Bulky Rock-type pokemon such as Regirock and Carracosta easily switch into Scyther's attacks and threaten it out with super-effective (RH) STAB attacks. Offensive Rock-types like Lycanroc are able to outspeed non-Choice Scarf Scyther and threaten it with Stone Edge or Accelerock.

**Steel-types**: Steel-types like Alolan Sandslash and Aggron resist Scyther's dual-STAB (RH) moves (AC) and the latter scares Scyther with its strong x4 4x super-effective (RH) Head Smash. However (AC) both of the aforementioned pokemon can be caught off guard by Brick Break. While rare, Mawile completely walls everything Scyther has to offer.

**Physically Bulky Pokemon**: Mudsdale, Jellicent (AC) and Sableye are all capable of eating at least one attack from any Scyther set and crippling it with status.

**Faster Pokemon**: Alolan Raichu and Choice Scarf Abomasnow (AC) among others (AC) are capable of outspeeding and OHKOing non-Choice Scarf Scyther, (RC) among others. (to make it clear that it's referring to faster Pokemon, not slower Pokemon that are outsped) Choice Scarf Dodrio can outspeed and KO all Scyther sets.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Toy Time King, 307004], [Megazard, 202117]]
- Quality checked by: [[Megazard, 202117], [yogi, 252106], [tondas, 442732]]
- Grammar checked by: [[<username1>, <userid1>], [<username2>, <userid2>]]

 

[Lumari]

hm apparently i can still get sniped by an amcheck even on an analysis that's sat for this long, grabbed some good changes that i saw

remove add / fix (comments); (AC=add comma; RC=remove comma; SC=semicolon)
GP 1/2

check

[OVERVIEW]

Scyther is a mediocre choice in the PU metagame and primarily functions as a pivot capable of checking fairly common Fighting- and Grass-type Pokemon in the tier such as Gurdurr and Victreebel. Scyther is able to run With a bulky Swords Dance set, it is capable of using its bulk to check the aforementioned Pokemon while simultaneously pressuring defensive cores reliant on Pokemon such as Sableye and Lanturn with its ability to pivot out while going for boosted attacks. It can also run a passable Choice Scarf set, being an extremely fast pivot capable of revenge killing and gaining momentum quickly, or manage a Choice Band set which that can hit decently hard and be more difficult to handle defensively. Unfortunately, Scyther has a crippling x4 4x weakness to Stealth Rock and loses half its health upon switching in, severely limiting its limits Scyther's capabilities and requiring mandates good hazard support removal to make it usable. This also leads Scyther to be easily pressured by the likes of Rock-type move users like Lycanroc, Aggron and Choice Scarf Primeape, which utilize Rock-type attacks. Scyther's typing also leaves it vulnerable to and by common Ice-, Flying- and Electric-types (spacing) such as Alolan Sandslash, Dodrio, (AC) and Eelektross respectively, with the latter being extremely common and letting it get able to gain free momentum off Scyther, making Scyther quite a generally poor choice in the metagame. Even with a Swords Dance set, Scyther cannot break through common defensive options in the tier such as Regirock and Mudsdale, which leads to Scyther really struggling in a lot of matchups.

[SET]
name: Bulky Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: U-turn
move 3: Aerial Ace
move 4: Roost
item: Eviolite
ability: Technician
nature: Jolly
evs: 248 HP / 8 Atk / 252 Spe

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

U-turn is Scyther's main Bug STAB attack and lets it pivot out of poor matchup matchups and keeps keep momentum going. Aerial Ace rounds up out Scyther's dual-STAB coverage and allows it to hit Gurdurr super effectively.

Set Details
========

248 HP EVs ensure Scyther is as bulky as possible in conjunction with Eviolite, letting it better switch into opposing foes like Hitmonchan. This amount of HP investment also allows Scyther to survive switching into Stealth Rock twice.

Usage Tips
========

Scyther utilizes its bulk and typing to act as a decent check to a number of weaker attackers or type disadvantaged Pokemon with a type disadvantage. It is at its best switching into foes such as Lurantis, Claydol, or and Clefairy, setting up a Swords Dance, and getting off a boosted hit for free. However, it is not recommended to switch in Scyther when Stealth Rock are is present on the field, as losing half of its HP is quite detrimental and reduces its longevity and (repeated + obvious in that order) stops it from performing its role effectively. It also places Scyther in situations where it must use Roost to recover its health, (AC) and that which potentially allows opposing Pokemon to gain momentum against Scyther if it cannot safely use U-turn. Scyther will also want to immediately pivot out with U-turn rather than bothering to set up with Swords Dance when facing certain foes such as Regirock or and defensive Alolan Sandslash that Scyther it won't be doing much damage to regardless. It is not best optimal to bring in Scyther against status ailment users like Sableye and Jellicent, whose Will-O-Wisp cripple cripples Scyther and reduce reduces its damage output.

Team Options
========

Scyther is best found on offensive teams who that require a fast pivot to gain momentum and also appreciate its typing in order to check Grass- and Fighting-types in the tier. Entry hazard removal is key when using Scyther, (AC) and teammates such as Skuntank and Choice Scarf Alolan Sandslash massively help Scyther to improve its longevity while still fitting well on the more offensive teams Scyther tends to find itself on. Fast pivots such as Silvally-Water form a Volt-turn VoltTurn core with Scyther, (AC) and Scyther which also appreciates the Fire resistance Silvally-Water offers. Silvally-Water also pressures common Stealth Rock users like Mudsdale and Regirock and removes their entry hazards. Similarly, Eelektross and Lanturn form solid Volt-Turn VoltTurn cores with Scyther and help check Electric- and Flying-types for it. Scyther also works well with wallbreakers such as Stoutland. Scyther is able to check Fighting-types like Hitmonchan which that give Stoutland trouble, (AC) and in return, Stoutland can break through the Steel-types that completely wall Scyther, (AC) such as Aggron and Alolan Sandslash. Omastar is another notable offensive partner for Scyther, as it pressures bulky Rock-, Ground-, and Steel-types quite well and can make good use of Scyther's pivoting abilities to find setup opportunities. On the defensive side, Regirock is a nice partner for Scyther because it can check Flying- and Rock-types such as Dodrio and Lycanroc, two Pokemon that heavily pressure this Scyther set.

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: U-turn
move 2: Aerial Ace
move 3: Brick Break
move 4: Knock Off / Toxic
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Technician
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

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

Brick Break enables Scyther to hit Steel-types such as Alolan Sandslash, OHKO Aurorus, and pressure Aggron. Knock Off is a useful move to cripple defensive Pokemon such as Clefairy and Audino. Toxic is another nice utility option that can cripple Scyther's standard checks like Regirock. However, it can be extremely risky to lock Scyther into.

Set Details
========

Maximum Speed investment with a Jolly nature and Choice Scarf maximize Scyther's Speed, beating out Modest Ludicolo under rain, Alolan Sandslash under hail, and Choice Scarf Primeape.

Usage Tips
========

Choice Scarf Scyther should be primarily used to revenge kill weakened Pokemon or force out Bug-weak threats such as Alolan Raichu and gain momentum for its teammates with U-turn. Be mindful before locking Scyther into any of its moves other move. Toxic can easily be played around; (SC) Brick Break and Knock Off are fairly weak, (AC) and the latter is abusable exploitable by Z-move using setup sweepers using Z-Moves; (SC) and even Aerial Ace provides Rock-types such as Lycanroc and Omastar with a free setup opportunity. Scyther will need good prediction to switch into most attacks safely. For example, while it can pivot into Gurdurr's Drain Punch and Victreebel's Leaf Storm, but it will not want to be hit by a Knock Off from the former or Sludge Bomb, respectively from the latter. Choice Scarf Scyther is a risky set to utilize on teams due to the fact that all it really does is pivot in and out with somewhat weak a little chip damage and can provide setup opportunities for certain sweepers; (SC) thus, it needs to be used extremely carefully so as not to give the opponent an the upper hand.

Team Options
========

This Scyther set fits on VoltTurn offense teams that appreciate a fast pivot to bring in slower wallbreakers. Pairing it with other pivots such as Rotom-F is a must. Entry hazard removal is vital when utilising utilizing Scyther. Defog support from the likes of Lurantis is beneficial for Scyther in many ways. Lurantis provides Defog support and is a good check against Mudsdale and Regirock, which heavily pressure Scyther. Hitmonchan is also a good hazard remover to pair with Scyther, (AC) as it can take the brunt of attacks from special attackers like Simisear and Aurorus and threaten them out. Conversely, Scyther also appreciates entry hazard support from Pokemon such as Torterra, as the chip damage makes its pivoting noticeably more effective. Special wallbreakers like Drampa are good teammates for Scyther, (AC) as they heavily pressure physical walls like Tangela and Sableye, which Scyther has trouble breaking through. Additionally, Scyther offers a Fighting-type resistance to Drampa, (AC) and while Drampa resists both Fire- and Electric-type attacks for Scyther.

[SET]
name: Choice Band
move 1: U-turn
move 2: Aerial Ace
move 3: Brick Break
move 4: Knock Off / Pursuit
item: Choice Band
ability: Technician
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

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

Brick Break is provides coverage against Steel-types like Aggron, (AC) which wall Scyther otherwise. Knock Off cripples defensive answers to Scyther like Tangela and Mudsdale, removing vital items from each of them. Pursuit can also be used to trap and KO weakened or Dark-weak Pokemon, allowing Scyther to support its teammates at the cost of not being able to cripple its checks as well.

Set Details
========

Technician is the ability of choice to boost the damage output of Aerial Ace, as well as of Pursuit if the opponent does not switch.

Usage Tips
========

Scyther should be used early- to mid-game to chip away at opposing defensive Pokemon like Qwilfish and ease the the job of its teammates. However, since Scyther lacks Roost on this set, (AC) and it is prone to getting worn down quite easily, (AC) so it is ideal to avoid switching Scyther into direct attacks whenever possible and never bring it in when Stealth Rock is up. Scyther should mostly look be brought in versus physically frail or Bug-weak Pokemon and pivot out with powerful U-turns to rack up as much chip damage as possible early on. Knock Off can be extremely rewarding to surprise opponents with, as it can destroy the passive recovery of Pokemon like Regirock and Mudsdale and make them significantly easier to wear down. Choice Band Scyther relies on good prediction and surprise factor. Predicting a Steel-type like Alolan Sandslash to come in on an expected U-turn or Aerial Ace and KOing it with Brick Break is the best way to maximize get maximum mileage out of its power. However, despite its boosted power, Choice Band Scyther is still very easy to abuse exploit if it locks itself into the wrong attack.

Team Options
========

Scyther pairs well with other pivots like Lanturn and Silvally-Dragon, which are able to pressure Scyther's its defensive checks like Regirock and Sableye. Entry hazard removal is a necessity on any team with Scyther; (SC) Claydol can be a decent partner due to its ability to check most Rock-types and use Rapid Spin versus Regirock and Mudsdale. Thanks to Scyther's good damage output with a Choice Band, it supports physical setup sweepers quite nicely; (SC) Lycanroc is a good sweeper that pairs with Scyther thanks to example, with Scyther punching holes into Gurdurr and chipping down Tangela with U-turn. Scyther also welcomes Fighting-type Pokemon like Gurdurr and Hitmonchan as teammates, (AC) since they are able to break past Steel- and Rock-types like Alolan Sandslash and Carracosta without having Scyther locking itself into Brick Break. Gurdurr can also act as a bulky setup sweeper and become a wincon thanks to Scyther chipping down defensive Pokemon like Mudsdale. Furthermore, Hitmonchan can use Rapid Spin to help out with Scyther's Stealth Rock weakness. Victreebel is a notable offensive partner for being able its ability to pressure nearly all of Scyther's offensive and defensive checks such as Choice Scarf Primeape and Jellicent.

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

Bug Bite is another option as a last move on both the Choice Band and Choice Scarf sets as a secondary Bug-type STAB attack that that doesn't force Scyther out, (AC) but it is rarely worthwhile. Scyther can afford to go a fully offensive Swords Dance set with a 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe with a Jolly nature in addition with either Bugnium-Z Buginium Z or Fightinium Z (RH) in order to lure in traditional checks like Carracosta and Regirock and kill remove them with a +2 Attack boosted Z-Move. However, since Scyther loses much of its bulk when not running Eviolite or HP investment and it becomes more vulnerable to the Pokemon it's supposed to be checking like Hitmonchan, (AC) so a bulky Swords Dance set is preferred. Utilising Utilizing Technician Quick Attack as a fourth move lets gives Scyther have a revenge killing (RH) tool to dispatch weakened faster threats which are faster such as Dodrio. Quick Attack is useful because it is boosted by Technician, dealing more damage. However, (AC) it is still very weak and abusable exploitable. Tailwind on can give the Choice Scarf set gives the set more utility in order for Scyther's teammates to sweep, (AC) and it is really meant for use should be used when Scyther is fainted on that the same turn it uses it Scyther is KOed. However, locking Scyther is abused by the fact it locks itself into a status move makes it very exploitable, and it automatically puts leaves the player in a situation where you are one Pokemon less down.

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

**Stealth Rock**: Scyther loses half its health upon switching into Stealth Rock. This is a huge detriment for Scyther, as it cannot perform its roles consistently and makes it a liability on teams.

**Rock-type Pokemon**: Bulky Rock-type Pokemon such as Regirock and Carracosta easily switch into Scyther's attacks and threaten it out with super effective (RH) STAB attacks. Offensive Rock-types like Lycanroc are able to outspeed non-Choice Scarf Scyther and threaten it with Stone Edge or Accelerock.

**Steel-types**: Steel-types like Alolan Sandslash and Aggron resist Scyther's dual-STAB combination, (AC) and the latter scares Scyther with its strong x4 4x super effective (RH) Head Smash. However, (AC) both of the aforementioned Pokemon can be caught off guard by Brick Break. While rare, Mawile completely walls everything Scyther has to offer.

**Physically Bulky Pokemon**: Mudsdale, Jellicent, (AC) and Sableye are all capable of eating at least one attack from any Scyther set and crippling it with status.

**Faster Pokemon**: Alolan Raichu and Choice Scarf Abomasnow, among others, are capable of outspeeding and OHKOing non-Choice Scarf Scyther, among others. Choice Scarf Dodrio can outspeed and KO all Scyther sets.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Toy Time King, 307004], [Megazard, 202117]]
- Quality checked by: [[Megazard, 202117], [yogi, 252106], [tondas, 442732]]
- Grammar checked by: [[<username1>, <userid1>], [<username2>, <userid2>]]

 

[Rabia]

add remove comments

gp

(taken over by Megazard)

[OVERVIEW]

Scyther is a mediocre choice in the PU metagame and primarily functions as a pivot capable of checking fairly common Fighting- and Grass-type Pokemon such as Gurdurr and Victreebel. With a bulky Swords Dance set, it is capable of using its bulk to check the aforementioned Pokemon while simultaneously pressuring defensive cores reliant on Pokemon such as Sableye and Lanturn with its ability to pivot out while going for boosted attacks. It can also run a passable Choice Scarf set, being an extremely fast pivot capable of revenge killing and gaining momentum quickly, or manage a Choice Band set that can hit decently hard and be more difficult to handle defensively. Unfortunately, A a crippling 4x weakness to Stealth Rock severely limits Scyther's capabilities and mandates good entry hazard removal to make it usable. This also leads Scyther to be to Scyther being easily pressured by Rock-type move users like Lycanroc, Aggron,(AC) and Choice Scarf Primeape,(RC) and by common Ice-, Flying- and Electric-types such as Alolan Sandslash, Dodrio, and Eelektross. Even with a Swords Dance set, Scyther cannot break through common defensive options in the tier such as Regirock and Mudsdale, which leads to Scyther really struggling in a lot of matchups.

[SET]
name: Bulky Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: U-turn
move 3: Aerial Ace
move 4: Roost
item: Eviolite
ability: Technician
nature: Jolly
evs: 248 HP / 8 Atk / 252 Spe

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

U-turn is Scyther's main Bug-type STAB attack and lets it pivot out of poor matchups and keep momentum going. Aerial Ace rounds out Scyther's STAB coverage and allows it to hit Gurdurr super effectively.

Set Details
========

248 HP EVs ensure Scyther is as bulky as possible in conjunction with Eviolite, letting it better switch into foes like Hitmonchan. This amount of HP investment also allows Scyther to survive switching into Stealth Rock twice.

Usage Tips
========

Scyther utilizes its bulk and typing to act as a decent check to a number of weaker attackers or Pokemon with a type disadvantage. It is at its best switching into foes such as Lurantis, Claydol, and Clefairy, setting up a Swords Dance, and getting off a boosted hit for free. However, it is not recommended to switch in Scyther when Stealth Rock is present on the field, as losing half of its HP stops it from performing its role effectively. It also places Scyther in situations where it must use Roost to recover its health, which potentially allows opposing Pokemon to gain momentum against Scyther if it cannot safely use U-turn. Scyther will also want to immediately pivot out with U-turn rather than bothering to set up with Swords Dance when facing certain foes such as Regirock and defensive Alolan Sandslash that it won't be doing much damage to regardless. It is not optimal to bring in Scyther against status users like Sableye and Jellicent, whose Will-O-Wisp cripples Scyther and reduces its damage output.

Team Options
========

Scyther is best found on offensive teams that require a fast pivot to gain momentum and appreciate its typing in order to check Grass- and Fighting-types in the tier. Entry hazard removal is key when using Scyther, and teammates such as Skuntank and Choice Scarf Alolan Sandslash massively help Scyther to improve its longevity while still fitting well on the more offensive teams Scyther tends to find itself on. Fast pivots such as Silvally-Water form a VoltTurn core with Scyther, which also appreciates the Fire resistance Silvally-Water offers. Silvally-Water also pressures common Stealth Rock users like Mudsdale and Regirock and removes their entry hazards. Similarly, Eelektross and Lanturn form solid VoltTurn cores with Scyther and help check Electric- and Flying-types for it. Scyther also works well with wallbreakers such as Stoutland. Scyther is able to check Fighting-types like Hitmonchan that give Stoutland trouble, and,(AC) in return, Stoutland can break through the Steel-types that completely wall Scyther, such as Aggron and Alolan Sandslash. Omastar is another notable offensive partner for Scyther, as it pressures bulky Rock-, Ground-, and Steel-types quite well and can make good use of Scyther's pivoting abilities to find setup opportunities. On the defensive side, Regirock is a nice partner for Scyther because it can check Flying- and Rock-types such as Dodrio and Lycanroc, two Pokemon that heavily pressure this Scyther set.

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: U-turn
move 2: Aerial Ace
move 3: Brick Break
move 4: Knock Off / Toxic
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Technician
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

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

Brick Break enables Scyther to hit Steel-types such as Alolan Sandslash, OHKO Aurorus, and pressure Aggron. Knock Off is a useful move to cripple defensive Pokemon such as Clefairy and Audino. Toxic is another nice utility option that can cripple Scyther's standard checks like Regirock. However, it can be extremely risky to lock Scyther into.

Set Details
========

Maximum Speed investment with a Jolly nature and Choice Scarf maximize maximizes (subject is singular (investment)) Scyther's Speed, beating out Modest Ludicolo under rain, Alolan Sandslash under hail, and Choice Scarf Primeape.

Usage Tips
========

Choice Scarf Scyther should be primarily used to revenge kill weakened Pokemon or force out Bug-weak threats such as Alolan Raichu and gain momentum for its teammates with U-turn. Be mindful before locking Scyther into any other move. Toxic can easily be played around; Brick Break and Knock Off are fairly weak, and with the latter is being exploitable by setup sweepers using Z-Moves;(semicolon) and even Aerial Ace provides Rock-types such as Lycanroc and Omastar with a free setup opportunity. Scyther will need good prediction to switch into most attacks safely. For example, while it can pivot into Gurdurr's Drain Punch and Victreebel's Leaf Storm, it will not want to be hit by a Knock Off from the former or Sludge Bomb from the latter. Choice Scarf Scyther is a risky set to utilize on teams due to the fact that all it really does is pivot in and out with a little chip damage and provide setup opportunities for certain sweepers; thus, it needs to be used extremely carefully so as not to give the opponent the upper hand.

Team Options
========

This Scyther set fits on VoltTurn offense teams that appreciate a fast pivot to bring in slower wallbreakers. Pairing it with other pivots such as Rotom-F is a must. Entry hazard removal is vital when utilizing Scyther. Lurantis provides Defog support and is a good check against Mudsdale and Regirock, which heavily pressure Scyther. Hitmonchan is also a good hazard remover to pair with Scyther, as it can take the brunt of attacks from special attackers like Simisear and Aurorus and threaten them out. Conversely, Scyther also appreciates entry hazard support from Pokemon such as Torterra, as the chip damage makes its pivoting noticeably more effective. Special wallbreakers like Drampa are good teammates for Scyther, as they heavily pressure physical walls like Tangela and Sableye, which Scyther has trouble breaking through. Additionally, Scyther offers a Fighting-type resistance to Drampa, while Drampa resists both Fire- and Electric-type attacks for Scyther.

[SET]
name: Choice Band
move 1: U-turn
move 2: Aerial Ace
move 3: Brick Break
move 4: Knock Off / Pursuit
item: Choice Band
ability: Technician
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

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

Brick Break provides coverage against Steel-types like Aggron, which wall Scyther otherwise. Knock Off cripples defensive answers to Scyther like Tangela and Mudsdale, removing vital items from each of them. Pursuit can also be used to trap and KO weakened or Dark-weak Pokemon, allowing Scyther to support its teammates at the cost of not being able to cripple its checks as well.

Set Details
========

Technician is the ability of choice to boost the damage output of Aerial Ace (RC) as well as of Pursuit if the opponent does not switch.

Usage Tips
========

Scyther should be used early- to mid-game to chip away at opposing defensive Pokemon like Qwilfish and ease the the job of its teammates. However, since Scyther lacks Roost on this set, it is prone to getting worn down quite easily, so it is ideal to avoid switching Scyther into direct attacks whenever possible and never bring it in when Stealth Rock is up. Scyther should mostly look be brought in versus physically frail or Bug-weak Pokemon and pivot out with powerful U-turns to rack up as much chip damage as possible early on. Knock Off can be extremely rewarding to surprise opponents with, as it can destroy the passive recovery of Pokemon like Regirock and Mudsdale and make them significantly easier to wear down. Choice Band Scyther relies on good prediction and surprise factor. Predicting a Steel-type like Alolan Sandslash to come in on an expected U-turn or Aerial Ace and KOing it with Brick Break is the best way to get maximum mileage out of its power. However, despite its boosted power, Choice Band Scyther is still very easy to exploit if it locks itself into the wrong attack.

Team Options
========

Scyther pairs well with other pivots like Lanturn and Silvally-Dragon, which are able to pressure its defensive checks like Regirock and Sableye. Entry hazard removal is a necessity on any team with Scyther; Claydol can be a decent partner due to its ability to check most Rock-types and use Rapid Spin versus Regirock and Mudsdale. Thanks to Scyther's good damage output with a Choice Band, it supports physical setup sweepers quite nicely; Lycanroc is a good example, with Scyther punching holes into Gurdurr and chipping down Tangela with U-turn. Scyther also welcomes Fighting-type Pokemon like Gurdurr and Hitmonchan as teammates, since they are able to break past Steel- and Rock-types like Alolan Sandslash and Carracosta without having Scyther locking itself into Brick Break. Gurdurr can also act as a bulky setup sweeper and become a wincon thanks to Scyther chipping down defensive Pokemon like Mudsdale. Furthermore, Hitmonchan can use Rapid Spin to help out with Scyther's Stealth Rock weakness. Victreebel is a notable offensive partner for its ability to pressure nearly all of Scyther's offensive and defensive checks such as Choice Scarf Primeape and Jellicent.

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

Bug Bite is another option as a last move on both the Choice Band and Choice Scarf sets as a secondary Bug-type STAB attack that doesn't force Scyther out, but it is rarely worthwhile. Scyther can afford to go a fully offensive Swords Dance set with an EV spread of 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe with a Jolly nature in addition with and either Buginium Z or Fightinium Z in order to lure in traditional checks like Carracosta and Regirock and remove them with a boosted Z-Move. However, since Scyther loses much of its bulk when not running Eviolite or HP investment and becomes more vulnerable to the Pokemon it's supposed to be checking like Hitmonchan, a bulky Swords Dance set is preferred. Utilizing Technician Quick Attack as a fourth move gives Scyther a revenge killing tool to dispatch weakened faster threats such as Dodrio. However, it is still very weak and exploitable. Tailwind can give the Choice Scarf set more utility in order for Scyther's teammates to sweep, and it should be used on the same turn Scyther is KOed. However, locking Scyther into a status move makes it very exploitable, and it automatically leaves the player one Pokemon down.

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

**Stealth Rock**: Scyther loses half its health upon switching into Stealth Rock. This is a huge detriment for Scyther, as it cannot perform its roles consistently and makes it a liability on teams.

**Rock-type Pokemon**: Bulky Rock-type Pokemon such as Regirock and Carracosta easily switch into Scyther's attacks and threaten it out with super effective STAB attacks. Offensive Rock-types like Lycanroc are able to can outspeed non-Choice Scarf Scyther and threaten it with Stone Edge or Accelerock. (listing Accelerock makes this only apply to Lycanroc; if there are other examples then rephrase the sentence to accommodate for their inclusion ie Offensive Rock-types like Lycanroc and Choice Scarf Kabutops outspeed non-Choice Scarf Scyther and threaten it with Stone Edge, and Lycanroc can pressure Choice Scarf variants with Accelerock.)

**Steel-types**: Steel-types like Alolan Sandslash and Aggron resist Scyther's STAB combination, and the latter scares Scyther with its strong 4x super effective Head Smash. However, both of the aforementioned Pokemon can be caught off guard by Brick Break. While rare, Mawile completely walls everything Scyther has to offer.

**Physically Bulky Pokemon**: Mudsdale, Jellicent, and Sableye are all capable of eating at least one attack from any Scyther set and crippling it with status.

**Faster Pokemon**: Alolan Raichu and Choice Scarf Abomasnow, among others, are capable of outspeeding and OHKOing non-Choice Scarf Scyther. Choice Scarf Dodrio can outspeed and KO all Scyther sets.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Toy Time King, 307004], [Megazard, 202117]]
- Quality checked by: [[Megazard, 202117], [yogi, 252106], [tondas, 442732]]
- Grammar checked by: [[The Dutch Plumberjack, 232216], [<username2>, <userid2>]]

gp 2/2 once done