PH SHELL SMASH DIALGA [Done]

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aerobee

Pure Hackmons
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[SET]
name: Shell Smash Sweeper
move 1: Spore / King's Shield / Recover
move 2: Shell Smash
move 3: Judgment / Spacial Rend
move 4: Searing Shot / Flash Cannon / Judgment
item: Draco Plate / Iron Plate
ability: Mold Breaker
nature: Modest
evs: 232 HP / 8 Def / 252 SpA / 16 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Mold Breaker Dialga is a powerful sweeper due to its great STAB moves, great defensive typing, and good bulk. Spore creates setup opportunities for Dialga and allows for convenient Imposter-proofing with a Safety Goggles teammate. Alternatively, King's Shield takes advantage of Dialga's good bulk to more easily sweep teams reliant on Huge Power Slaking and Regigigas and -ate Speed users like Kyurem-B, Mega Abomasnow, and Mega Rayquaza to revenge kill boosted threats. King's Shield also grants healthy Dialga a slightly favorable chance to win the one-on-one against Choice Band Shadow Tag Mega Mewtwo X. Alternatively, Dialga can forgo Spore or King’s Shield for a set with Iron Plate, Judgment, Spacial Rend, and Searing Shot. Such a set hits much of the metagame super effectively and can be Imposter-proofed by Whirlwind Wonder Guard Blissey or fringe sets like specially defensive Mega Audino. Additionally, forgoing Draco Plate means Dialga can't lose access to its Dragon-type STAB move; thus, its offensive prowess is less easily hampered by Knock Off and Trick. Recover is an option to greatly increase Dialga's longevity, allowing it to set up on passive foes that can still chip it, like Wonder Guard Primal Kyogre running Scald, much more easily; however, forgoing King's Shield leaves boosted Dialga more vulnerable to Refrigerate and Pixilate users as well as Huge Power Slaking and Regigigas. Shell Smash bolsters Dialga's offensive prowess, allowing it to sweep a large portion of weakened teams after a boost. Dragon-type Judgment allows for easy Imposter-proofing with Giratina if forgoing Flash Cannon and hits slightly harder than Spacial Rend, notably OHKOing Aerilate Mega Rayquaza when unboosted and OHKOing offensive Arceus and Mega Mewtwo Y after Shell Smash. Spacial Rend is usable alongside Iron Plate Judgment, but this comes at the cost of Dialga becoming more difficult to Imposter-proof; it is worth noting, however, that Spacial Rend makes Dialga less vulnerable to Knock Off and Trick. Searing Shot complements Dialga's Dragon-type STAB moves well and threatens Steel-types like Registeel and Wonder Guard Mega Scizor and Escavalier. Alternatively, Flash Cannon threatens Fairy-type foes like Wonder Guard Xerneas, Mega Audino, and Mega Gardevoir much more effectively than Searing Shot. The given EV spread maximizes Dialga's overall bulk and damage output while outspeeding base 150 Speed Pokemon, like Mega Aerodactyl and Deoxys-A, after Shell Smash.

Dialga works well alongside the metagame's most dominant core of Mold Breaker Primal Groudon, Prankster Giratina, and Substitute + Baton Pass Wonder Guard Xerneas. Dialga complements Primal Groudon by beating the revenge killers that it struggles with, such as Aerilate Mega Rayquaza and Huge Power Mega Gyarados if lacking Sucker Punch. Additionally, Dialga can threaten the most common switch-in to Primal Groudon in Prankster Giratina. In return, Primal Groudon can switch into most Wonder Guard Xerneas sets as well as checks to Dialga, such as Wonder Guard Blissey and Ho-Oh. Prankster Giratina can switch into opposing Primal Groudon for Dialga. Wonder Guard Xerneas can provide Substitute + Baton Pass support for Dialga and potentially set entry hazards, paralyze or Dark Void switch-ins, and function with high efficacy due to forcing opposing Giratina and Yveltal out. Other physical Mold Breaker users, such as Choice Band Mega Rayquaza and Mega Tyranitar, are also good teammates thanks to their ability to pressure Dialga's checks. Bulky variants of Choice Band + Shadow Tag Mega Mewtwo X can OHKO Wonder Guard Xerneas while having the bulk to revenge kill bulky Lum Berry Huge Power Mega Gyarados if healthy, making it a great partner. Additionally, Choice Band + Shadow Tag Mega Mewtwo can switch into, trap, and remove Wonder Guard users like Arceus, Mega Beedrill, and Mega Manetric if they lack Shed Shell or don't use Gastro Acid. Huge Power Dark-types like Mega Gyarados can ease Dialga's setup by Pursuit trapping Prankster Giratina. Substitute and Shell Smash + Baton Pass Wonder Guard users aside from Xerneas, like Mega Swampert and Primal Groudon, can lure in Prankster Giratina and take advantage of mindgame scenarios to retain momentum by passing either a Substitute or Shell Smash boost to Dialga. Finally, defensive Wonder Guard users are great partners, as they can remove and set entry hazards, act as clerics, use Whirlwind to prevent Substitutes and boosts from being passed, and provide slow pivoting support for Dialga.

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

Dark Void is an alternative over Spore that ignores opposing Safety Goggles but is usually not worth it, as switch-ins to Spore Dialga, such as Safety Goggles Wonder Guard Primal Kyogre and Blissey, are relatively rare. Glare and Taunt give more opportunities to set up with Shell Smash; Taunt more effectively deals with passive switch-ins, such as Primal Kyogre and Blissey variants forgoing Knock Off. Alternatively, Stealth Rock and other entry hazards can support Dialga's team, capitalizing on its good bulk and ability to force out much of the metagame when healthy, though Dialga often struggles to sweep without running a disruption move. Secret Sword could be used over Searing Shot to still threaten most Steel-types while also threatening Wonder Guard Blissey, but running the move means Dialga will not be able to OHKO Registeel, Mega Steelix, and Wonder Guard Mega Scizor. Recover is an option to greatly increase Dialga's longevity but sacrifices momentum and other generally more useful options. Dialga can opt to run Flame Plate + Judgment or Burn Drive + Techno Blast instead of Searing Shot, but its bulky Steel-type Imposter-proof will need to be replaced. On the other hand, the easy Imposter-proofing provided by Judgment and a Draco Plate or Iron Plate is usually more worthwhile. Leftovers gives Dialga more longevity, and Lum Berry allows Dialga to sweep more easily by curing status once; Leftovers also synergizes well with King's Shield. However, both items mean Dialga cannot make use of Plate + Judgment, making Imposter-proofing more difficult. If Leftovers is used, a spread of 240 HP / 252 SpA / 16 Spe with a Modest nature is preferred due to reaching a jump point in Leftovers recovery. Alternative spreads of 200 HP / 252 SpA / 56 Spe, 104 HP / 4 Def / 252 SpA / 148 Spe, and 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe, all with Modest natures, can be run on Dialga to outspeed Choice Scarf Shadow Tag Primal Groudon after a Shell Smash, Deoxys-S lacking a Choice Scarf after a Shell Smash, and Mega Mewtwo Y after Sticky Web when unboosted, respectively. However, these spreads sacrifice bulk and power, so they're almost never worth it.

A Choice Specs set with Draco Meteor or Spacial Rend, Flash Cannon, Searing Shot, and Volt Switch is a viable option, as Dialga’s superior defensive typing gives it a niche over Mega Latios. Both Draco Meteor and Spacial Rend OHKO opposing Giratina, but the former is usually preferred, as it also OHKOes all Primal Groudon variants. Secret Sword could be run over Searing Shot, as it nails a would-be check in Wonder Guard Blissey, but running it gives Dialga a harder time breaking through opposing Mega Steelix and Mega Scizor. Alternatively, Trick hinders common switch-ins, like Wonder Guard Blissey and Registeel. Choice Specs Mold Breaker Dialga is often too slow to pose an effective threat against offensive teams and is much more vulnerable to offensive Shadow Tag users, namely Shadow Tag + Perish Song users like Lugia. Additionally, Dialga can run a fringe offensive Wonder Guard set with Shell Smash, Judgment with Earth Plate or Fist Plate, and two coverage moves to hit opposing Wonder Guard users and Prankster Giratina. Viable coverage options include Freeze-Dry, Grass Knot, Searing Shot, Moonblast, Bug Buzz, Night Daze, and Knock Off; coverage moves that can damage Dialga super effectively, such as Secret Sword, Aura Sphere, Thousand Arrows, and Earth Power, are to be avoided, as they prevent Dialga from Imposter-proofing itself. Gastro Acid could also be used over one of the coverage moveslots to threaten opposing Wonder Guard users in a wider range of matchups. Wonder Guard Shell Smash Dialga is an option, but it is mostly outclassed by Mega Lucario as a Steel-type Shell Smash Wonder Guard sweeper due to the latter's ability to OHKO Primal Groudon after Shell Smash with a STAB move.

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

**Offensive Shadow Tag Users**: Offensive Shadow Tag users like Earth Power Mega Latios can threaten the vast majority of unboosted Dialga; certain Choice Scarf Shadow Tag users, such as Primal Groudon, Mega Rayquaza, and Mega Mewtwo X and Y, can threaten Dialga even after it boosts its stats. However, offensive Shadow Tag users usually cannot switch in to Dialga safely and require pivoting support to reliably switch in.

**Faster Offensive Pokemon**: Most faster offensive Pokemon can threaten Dialga in a one-on-one situation, even if Dialga is healthy. In particular, Mold Breaker users that outspeed Dialga, such as Primal Groudon running more Speed investment, Mega Rayquaza, and Mega Latios, are threatening due to having relatively few switch-ins, so momentum is often lost to the opposing team. However, Dialga sets running King's Shield can mostly circumvent this issue against Choice item Mold Breaker users, as the opposing Pokemon's move is scouted. Huge Power, Protean, and rare Parental Bond users are also issues for Dialga, as they often force it out by threatening an OHKO; however, these Pokemon don't pose an immediate threat if Dialga is paired with Wonder Guard users. Choice Scarf No Guard users, such as Mega Mewtwo Y and Mega Aerodactyl, can outspeed Dialga even after a Shell Smash and force it out; however, being Choice-locked is easily exploitable, and these Pokemon cannot outspeed boosted Dialga if they use Trick.

**Specially Defensive Pokemon**: Specially defensive Pokemon, like Wonder Guard Blissey and Primal Kyogre, can switch into unboosted Dialga. In particular, Wonder Guard Blissey is difficult for Dialga to break through, especially if it is running Whirlwind or Knock Off. However, most specially defensive Pokemon can be broken through if Dialga gets enough free turns from disruption to accumulate sufficient boosts from Shell Smash. Magic Guard Ho-Oh can somewhat circumvent this by running Toxic Orb, though it is prone to getting removed by Shadow Tag users and cannot meaningfully pressure a healthy Dialga.

**Revenge Killers**: Power users like Slaking and Regigigas and -ate Speed users like Kyurem-B, Mega Diancie, and Mega Abomasnowcan pick off weakened Dialga lacking King's Shield, especially after a Shell Smash. Huge Power Dark-types with Knock Off also annoy healthy Dialga, forcing it to play mindgames between Knock Off and Pursuit. Additionally, Huge Power Dark-types with Sucker Punch can force coinflip scenarios against boosted Dialga, with Mega Gyarados and Mega Tyranitar always OHKOing Dialga if a successful prediction is made. Imposter users can also usually dissuade Dialga sets not running Draco Plate from setting up by threatening a countersweep. However, no revenge killers bar Imposter Chansey can safely switch in on boosted Dialga without first sacking a teammate or being pivoted in.

**Prankster Users**: Prankster users besides Giratina, such as Yveltal and the occasional Registeel or Chansey, can switch into most Dialga sets and force it out with Encore or Haze, especially if they are running Safety Goggles. While it is generally discouraged from doing so, Prankster Giratina can also switch into Dialga after a prediction if need be and force it out with Encore. However, Prankster users aside from Giratina are relatively rare, and Prankster Giratina is threatened by Dragon-type STAB from Dialga.

**Item Removal**: Removing Dialga's Plate can severely hinder its sweeping ability, particularly if Dialga is running Draco Plate. Knock Off users, like Wonder Guard Blissey, can remove Dialga's item with relative ease; Prankster Trick users, while niche, can also annoy Dialga, especially when Dialga's Plate is removed by a Pokemon it ordinarily forces out, like Giratina. However, the opportunity cost of running item removal often dissuades switch-ins to Dialga from running Knock Off or Trick, and Prankster Trick users are quite rare.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Mbouchon, 515077]]
- Quality checked by: [[Daylight, 562267], [username2, userid2]]
- Grammar checked by: [[Isaiah, 375662]]
 
Last edited by a moderator:

Daylight

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[SET]
name: Shell Smash Sweeper
move 1: Spore / King's Shield / Judgment
move 2: Shell Smash
move 3: Judgment / Spacial Rend
move 4: Searing Shot / Flash Cannon / Judgment
I really dislike how Judgment is slashed in three moveslots here. I think it’s fine to leave them unslashed but to still talk about the 3 attacks set and the Spacial Rend + Iron Judgment set below.
item: Draco Plate / Iron Plate
ability: Mold Breaker
nature: Modest
evs: 232 HP / 8 Def / 252 SpA / 16 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Mold Breaker Dialga is a powerful sweeper due to its great STAB moves, and defensive utility stemming from its great defensive typing, and good bulk. Spore is the most effective ways for Dialga to gain turns to set up; Spore also has the benefit of being blocked by Safety Goggles, which is rather uncommon on switch-ins to Dialga, allowing for nearly perfect Imposter-proofing with Draco Plate on most sets. Spore creates setup opportunities for Dialga and allows for convenient Imposter-proofing with a Safety Goggles teammate. Alternatively, King's Shield is another option, taking takes advantage of Dialga's good bulk to more effectively easily sweep teams reliant on revenge killers like Huge Power Slaking or and Regigigas, as well as -ate Speed users, in particular like Kyurem-B, Mega Abomasnow, and Mega Rayquaza, to revenge kill boosted threats. King's Shield also grants healthy Dialga a slightly favored favorable chance to win a 1v1 against Adamant (Choice Band, I’m assuming) Shadow Tag Mega Mewtwo X. Alternatively, Dialga can forgo Spore or King’s Shield for Steel-type Judgment is also an option, as a 3-attack set running with Iron Plate Judgment, Spacial Rend, and Searing Shot. Such a set hits much of the metagame super effectively, and Dialga can be Imposter-proofed by Whirlwind Wonder Guard Blissey running Whirlwind or fringe sets like specially defensive Mega Audino. Additionally, forgoing Draco Plate leaves Dialga less vulnerable to having its offensive prowess hampered by Knock Off or Trick. Shell Smash significantly bolsters Dialga's offensive prowess, more than remedying Dialga's lackluster Speed stat and allowing it to sweep a large portion of weakened teams after a boost. Dragon-type Judgment allows Dialga to for easy Imposter-proofing effectively, while also hitting slightly harder than Spacial Rend, notably achieving the OHKO against -ate standard Aerilate Mega Rayquaza running maximum HP investment, as well as offensive Arceus and Mega Mewtwo Y after Shell Smash. Judgment doesn’t allow Dialga to Imposter-proof. It makes Dialga self Imposter-proof if only running Judgment and a Steel move and easy to Imposter-proof with teammates like Giratina. If you like that wording though, you could potentially say something like… Draco Plate and Judgment allow Dialga to Imposter-proof itself… Spacial Rend is usable if running alongside Iron Plate Judgment, though this comes at the cost of Dialga being more difficult to Imposter-proof. It is worth noting, however, that Spacial Rend does make Dialga less vulnerable to Knock Off and Trick. Searing Shot is a great coverage option, complementing complements Dialga’s Dragon-type STAB well and threatens threatening opposing Steel-types like Registeel and Wonder Guard Mega Scizor and Escavalier as well as Registeel. Flash Cannon, alternatively, threatens Fairy-type foes like and Steel-type Judgment are also workable options due to threatening Wonder Guard Xerneas, Mega Audino, and Mega Gardevoir much more effectively than Searing Shot would; Flash Cannon is superior on sets running Draco Plate, and Judgment should be on Iron Plate sets. Iron Plate Judgment on Spacial Rend sets was already mentioned. The given EV spread maximizes Dialga’s overall bulk and damage output allows Dialga to hit as hard as possible while outspeeding base 150 Speed Pokemon with 150 base Speed, such as like Mega Aerodactyl and Deoxys-A, after a Shell Smash; a Modest nature further bolsters Dialga's offensive power.

Dialga works best on teams that appreciate a bulky special sweeper that takes advantage of its defensive utility on top of its amazing coverage options.
This sentence is just fluff—it only reiterates stuff you said in the first sentence. In particular Dialga works well alongside in the metagame's most dominant core of Mold Breaker Primal Groudon, Prankster Giratina, and Substitute + Baton Pass Wonder Guard Xerneas. Dialga can offer defensive utility against offensive revenge killers that effectively deal with Primal Groudon in Aerilate or Gale Wings Mega Rayquaza as well as Huge Power Mega Gyarados lacking Sucker Punch, Dialga complements Primal Groudon by way of its defensive utility, beating the revenge killers that Primal Groudon struggles with, such as Aerilate Mega Rayquaza and Huge Power Mega Gyarados. on top of being a special sweeper that usually threatens common switch-ins to physical attackers like Primal Groudon and Mega Mewtwo X, especially Giratina and Wonder Guard users that Mega Mewtwo X cannot threaten. This previous sentence was very confusing. I slimmed it down to what I could understand clearly. In return, Primal Groudon is a good can switch-in to switch into most Wonder Guard Xerneas sets as well as checks to Dialga, such as Wonder Guard Blissey and Ho-Oh., and is a terrifying sweeper in its own right, Prankster Giratina provides a switch-in to can switch into opposing Primal Groudon in a one-on-one situation against for Dialga., and Wonder Guard Xerneas can provide Substitute + Baton Pass support for Dialga as well as use its filler moveslot to optimize its role of Substitute + Baton Passer by setting and potentially set entry hazards, paralyzing or putting switch-ins to sleep or paralyze or Dark Void switch-ins, and preventing itself from getting phazed by Whirlwind, opposing Taunt, or Perish Song with Taunt. Really confused why this last bit is relevant. Other physical Mold Breaker users, such as Choice Band Mega Rayquaza and Mega Tyranitar, are also good teammates due to pressuring thanks to their ability to pressure Dialga's checks, having next to no reliable switch-ins themselves, and synergizing well with Substitute + Baton Pass Wonder Guard users. Dialga itself is not providing SubPass support so this last clause feels superfluous. Offensive Shadow Tag users, like Mega Mewtwo X, Mega Mewtwo Y, Primal Groudon, and Mega Rayquaza, can remove opposing Wonder Guard users lacking a Shed Shell, like most Xerneas, Genesect, and Mega Beedrill. Why is this specifically helpful for Dialga, who already matches decently well into those three Wonder Guards? In particular Bulky variants of Choice Band + Shadow Tag Mega Mewtwo X make good partners for Dialga, as they can OHKO Wonder Guard Xerneas while having the bulk to and revenge kill Lum Huge Power Mega Gyarados with bulk investment if healthy, making it a great partner. Huge Power Dark-types, most notable among them like Mega Gyarados, can ease Dialga’s setup by Pursuit trapping opposing Prankster Giratina with slight chip and can OHKO it from full with Knock Off, easing Dialga’s setup mind games against Prankster variants. Substitute or Shell Smash + Baton Pass Wonder Guard users aside from Xerneas, like Mega Swampert and Primal Groudon, are also fairly good partners, as they can lure opposing Prankster Giratina in, creating mind games that, if won, allow them to retain momentum or pass either a Substitute or a Shell Smash boosts to Dialga. Finally, defensive Wonder Guard users are great partners, as they can remove hazards, set their own, act as a cleric, prevent opposing passing of Substitutes or boosts with Whirlwind, and provide slow pivoting support for Dialga.

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

Dark Void is an alternative option over Spore that ignores opposing Safety Goggles users, but is usually not worth it, as switch-ins to Spore Dialga, such as Safety Goggles variants of Wonder Guard Primal Kyogre and Blissey running Safety Goggles, are relatively rare and face the inherent risk of getting removed by opposing Shadow Tag users. Glare and Taunt are other options to gain turns to set up with Shell Smash, and have niches over Spore and Dark Void in that; Glare doesn't wear off after a set amount of turns and Taunt is less matchup dependent doesn't fish for matchup as much as sets running Spore do, but Spore's benefits almost always outweigh the move's negative aspects. Is it true that Taunt is less matchup-fishy? I feel as though its just a different matchup you’re fishing for. Your call, though. Alternatively, Stealth Rock and other entry hazards could be used to can support Dialga's team, capitalizing on its good bulk and ability to force out much of the metagame when healthy, though. However, Dialga often struggles to sweep without running a disruption move. Similarly, Spikes and Toxic Spikes could be used, though Stealth Rock is often more worthwhile due to Spikes being difficult to stack and Toxic Spikes blocking sleep. Blue Flare could be run is an option over Searing Shot to OHKO opposing Registeel, but is generally not worth it, as Registeel often cannot do much back to Dialga even if it survives a hit from full and opposing checks can be chipped down with hazards fairly easily. Recover is an option to greatly increase Dialga's longevity, though using the move can come at the cost of momentum and not dedicating a moveslot to either disruption or team support is a large opportunity cost. Spiky Shield is an alternative over King's Shield which that still allows boosted Dialga to beat opposing -ate Fake Out + Extreme Speed users as well as Huge Power Slaking and Regigigas in a 1v1 situation if healthy, and also blocks Gastro Acid and status like Glare and Spore, which can matter in mind games;. However, King's Shield is more useful in a variety of instances, having more utility against such as versus Choice Band Mold Breaker Mega Rayquaza and Shadow Tag Mega Mewtwo X. Dialga can opt to run Flame Plate, with Fire-type Judgment replacing Searing Shot and a bulky Steel teammate for Imposter-proofing, to more effectively Imposter-proof with a bulky Steel-type, like Registeel or to an extent Wonder Guard Mega Scizor, or a bulky Fairy-type like Mega Audino with Whirlwind if forgoing Flash Cannon. However, the easy Imposter-proofing that Draco Plate and Iron Plate provide, as well as Iron Plate Judgment's power difference over Flash Cannon and Spacial Rend Draco Plate's slight boost to Dialga's Dragon-type STAB, usually make running Draco Plate and Iron Plate more worthwhile. Leftovers and Lum Berry can be used to increase Dialga's longevity and allow Dialga to sweep more easily through blocking by curing status once, respectively; Leftovers also synergizes well with King's Shield. However, both items mean Dialga cannot make use of Plate + Judgment, making Imposter-proofing more difficult also face the opportunity cost of not offering the perks that Draco Plate or Iron Plate would provide. If Leftovers is used, an alternative spread of 240 HP / 252 SpA / 16 Spe with a Modest nature is preferred. Why is it preferred? Add a clause explaining why move this sentence to right before the previous one. Shed Shell allows Dialga to escape opposing Shadow Tag users, though most Shadow Tag users are unable to switch in on unboosted Dialga anyway. Mental Herb can work as it gives Dialga a better matchup against teams reliant on Prankster + Encore to prevent it from sweeping, but is usually not worth it as Prankster Giratina cannot switch in on unboosted Dialga anyway and Prankster + Encore users that can take on an unboosted Dialga are relatively rare. Alternative spreads of 200 HP / 252 SpA / 56 Spe, 104 HP / 4 Def / 252 SpA / 148 Spe, and 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe, all with Modest natures, can be run on Dialga to outspeed Choice Scarf Shadow Tag Primal Groudon after a Shell Smash, Deoxys-S lacking a Choice Scarf after a Shell Smash, and Mega Mewtwo Y after Sticky Web when unboosted, respectively. Additionally, a Timid nature could be run to more safely stay in against offensive Pokemon with base 90 Speed, notably namely Primal Groudon. However, these spreads lose out on bulk as well as and power both if running a Timid nature, and so are almost always not never worth it.

Dialga can also choose to run a Choice Specs Mold Breaker set, as it has a niche over Mold Breaker Mega Latios in that Dialga's typing allows it to come in much more easily. It prefers running Draco Meteor or Spacial Rend as Dragon-type STAB, Flash Cannon for opposing Fairy-types, Searing Shot for opposing Steel-types, like Registeel and to an extent Mega Steelix and Wonder Guard Mega Scizor, and Volt Switch to retain momentum through pivoting. A Choice Specs set with Draco Meteor or Spacial Rend, Flash Cannon; Searing Shot, and Volt Switch is a viable options, as Dialga’s superior defensive typing gives it a niche over Mega Latios. Both Draco Meteor and Spacial Rend OHKO opposing Giratina but the former is usually preferred as it OHKOes all but the bulkiest Primal Groudon sets the vast majority of Primal Groudon variants. Secret Sword could be run over Searing Shot as it nails a would-be check in Wonder Guard Blissey, though running it gives Dialga a harder time breaking through opposing Mega Steelix and Mega Scizor. Alternatively Trick cripples opposing hinders common switch-ins, like Wonder Guard Blissey and Registeel, as their defensive utility is greatly diminished once their ability to switch moves while on the field is removed. That goes without saying. However, Choice Specs Mold Breaker Dialga is often too slow to pose an effective threat against more offensive teams, and is much more vulnerable to getting trapped by offensive Shadow Tag users, as well as bulky Shadow Tag + Perish Song users like Lugia. Additionally, Dialga can run a fringe offensive Wonder Guard set with Shell Smash, Earth Plate or Fist Plate Judgment, and two coverage moves to hit opposing Wonder Guard users as well as and Prankster Giratina that don't threaten Wonder Guard Dialga itself. Coverage moves that could be used Viable options include Freeze-Dry, Grass Knot, Searing Shot, Moonblast, Bug Buzz, Night Daze, and Knock Off, and Gastro Acid. Gastro Acid could also be used over one of the coverage moveslots to threaten opposing Wonder Guard users in a wider range of matchups, although in that case Dialga's remaining coverage move is mostly restricted to something that can threaten Giratina, such as Moonblast. However, Wonder Guard Shell Smash Dialga is mostly outclassed by Mega Lucario as a Steel-type Shell Smash Wonder Guard sweeper due to the latter's ability to OHKO Primal Groudon after Shell Smash with a STAB move that also has its uses against opposing Wonder Guard users.

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

**Offensive Shadow Tag Users**: Offensive Shadow Tag users, such as Choice Scarf Primal Groudon, Mega Mewtwo X, and Mega Latios running Earth Power, can threaten the vast majority of Dialga sets in a one-on-one situation if Dialga is unboosted. Some Choice Scarf Shadow Tag users, such as Primal Groudon and Mega Rayquaza, can threaten boosted Dialga running the standard spread; some others, like Choice Scarf Mega Mewtwo Y and the rare Choice Scarf Mega Mewtwo X, can threaten virtually all Dialga spreads worth running. However, offensive Shadow Tag users usually cannot switch in to Dialga safely, and require pivoting support to reliably switch in come in on it without a teammate being sacked.

**Faster Offensive Pokemon**: Most faster offensive Pokemon can threaten Dialga in a one-on-one situation, even if Dialga is healthy. In particular, (AC) Mold Breaker users that could potentially outspeed Dialga, such as Primal Groudon, Mega Rayquaza, and Mega Latios, are threatening due to having relatively few switch-ins, so momentum is often lost to the opposing team. However, Dialga sets running King's Shield can mostly circumvent this issue against Choice item Mold Breaker users, as the opposing Pokemon's move is scouted. Huge Power, Protean, and rare Parental Bond users are also issues for Dialga, as much of the time they force it out by threatening an OHKO; however, these Pokemon are inherently matchup-dependent, and they don't pose an immediate threat against opposing Wonder Guard users in an unfavorable matchup. Choice Scarf No Guard users, such as Mega Mewtwo Y and Mega Aerodactyl, can outspeed Dialga even after a Shell Smash and force it out; however, being locked into a single move is easily exploitable and using Trick means in most cases these Pokemon cannot outspeed Dialga after Shell Smash for the rest of the battle.

**Specially Defensive Pokemon**: Specially defensive Pokemon, like Wonder Guard Blissey and specially defensive Primal Kyogre, can switch in on unboosted Dialga. In particular Wonder Guard Blissey is difficult for Dialga to break through, especially when running Whirlwind or Knock Off, due to its phenomenal special bulk. However, most specially defensive Pokemon can be broken through if Dialga gets enough turns from disruption to accumulate sufficient boosts from Shell Smash. Magic Guard Ho-Oh can somewhat circumvent this by running Toxic Orb, though it is prone to getting removed by opposing Shadow Tag users and cannot meaningfully pressure a healthy Dialga.

**Revenge Killers**: Revenge killers, in particular -ate Speed users like Kyurem-B, Mega Diancie, and Mega Abomasnow, as well as Huge Power Slaking and Regigigas, can pick off weakened Dialga lacking King's Shield, especially after a Shell Smash when boosted. Huge Power Dark-types, in particular Mega Gyarados, with Knock Off also annoy Dialga, forcing it to play mind games into a 50 / 50 between Knock Off and Pursuit. Imposter users can also usually dissuade Dialga sets not running Draco Plate from setting up by threatening a countersweep. However, no revenge killers bar Imposter Chansey can safely switch in on boosted Dialga, requiring a teammate to be sacked or heavy pivoting support to consistently threaten Dialga throughout the game.

**Prankster Users**: Prankster users besides Giratina, such as Yveltal and the occasional Prankster Registeel or Chansey, can switch in on most Dialga sets and force it out with Encore or Haze, especially if running Safety Goggles. While it is generally discouraged from doing so, Prankster Giratina can also come in on Dialga on a predict in an emergency and force it out with Encore. However, Prankster users aside from Giratina are relatively rare, and Prankster Giratina is threatened by Dragon-type STAB from Dialga.

**Item Removal**: Removing Dialga's Plate can severely hinder its sweeping ability, particularly if Dialga is running Draco Plate. Knock Off users, among them switch-ins like Wonder Guard Blissey, can remove Dialga's item with relative ease; Prankster Trick users, while niche, can also annoy Dialga, especially when Dialga's Plate is removed by a Pokemon it ordinarily forces out, like Giratina. However, the opportunity cost of running item removal often dissuades switch-ins to Dialga from running Knock Off or Trick, and Prankster Trick users are quite rare.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Mbouchon, 515077]]
- Quality checked by: [[Daylight, 562267], [username2, userid2]]
- Grammar checked by: [[username1, userid1]]

Very comprehensive content-wise. QC 1/2 ❤
 
Last edited:

berry

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[SET]
name: Shell Smash Sweeper
move 1: Spore / King's Shield
move 2: Shell Smash
move 3: Judgment / Spacial Rend
move 4: Searing Shot / Flash Cannon / Judgment
item: Draco Plate / Iron Plate
ability: Mold Breaker
nature: Modest
evs: 232 HP / 8 Def / 252 SpA / 16 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Mold Breaker Dialga is a powerful sweeper due to its great STAB moves, great defensive typing, and good bulk. Spore creates setup opportunities for Dialga and allows for convenient Imposter-proofing with a Safety Goggles teammate. Alternatively, King's Shield takes advantage of Dialga's good bulk to more easily sweep teams reliant on Huge Power Slaking and Regigigas as well as -ate Speed users like Kyurem-B, Mega Abomasnow, and Mega Rayquaza to revenge kill boosted threats. King's Shield also grants healthy Dialga a slightly favorable chance to win a 1v1 against Choice Band Shadow Tag Mega Mewtwo X. Alternatively, Dialga can forgo Spore or King’s Shield for a 3-attack set with Iron Plate Judgment, Spacial Rend, and Searing Shot. Such a set hits much of the metagame super effectively, and can be Imposter-proofed by Whirlwind Wonder Guard Blissey or fringe sets like specially defensive Mega Audino. Additionally, forgoing Draco Plate leaves Dialga less vulnerable to having its offensive prowess hampered by Knock Off or Trick, due to Dragon-type STAB being the most important attack in its arsenal. Shell Smash bolsters Dialga's offensive prowess, allowing it to sweep a large portion of weakened teams after a boost. Dragon-type Judgment allows for easy Imposter-proofing with Giratina if forgoing Flash Cannon, while also hitting slightly harder than Spacial Rend, notably achieving the OHKO against all Aerilate Mega Rayquaza variants when unboosted, as well as offensive Arceus and Mega Mewtwo Y after Shell Smash. Spacial Rend is usable alongside Iron Plate Judgment, though this comes at the cost of Dialga being more difficult to Imposter-proof; it is worth noting, however, that Spacial Rend does make Dialga less vulnerable to Knock Off and Trick. Searing Shot complements Dialga's Dragon-type STAB well and threatens Steel-types like Registeel and Wonder Guard Mega Scizor and Escavalier. Flash Cannon, alternatively, threatens Fairy-type foes like Wonder Guard Xerneas, Mega Audino, and Mega Gardevoir much more effectively than Searing Shot would. The given EV spread maximizes Dialga's overall bulk and damage output while outspeeding base 150 Speed Pokemon, like Mega Aerodactyl and Deoxys-A, after a Shell Smash; a Modest nature further bolsters Dialga's offensive power.

Dialga works well alongside the metagame's most dominant core of Mold Breaker Primal Groudon, Prankster Giratina, and Substitute + Baton Pass Wonder Guard Xerneas. Dialga complements Primal Groudon by way of its defensive utility, beating the revenge killers that Primal Groudon struggles with, such as Aerilate Mega Rayquaza and Huge Power Mega Gyarados if lacking Sucker Punch. Additionally, Dialga can threaten the most common switch-in to Primal Groudon in Prankster Giratina. In return, Primal Groudon can switch into most Wonder Guard Xerneas sets as well as checks to Dialga, such as Wonder Guard Blissey and Ho-Oh. Prankster Giratina can switch into opposing Primal Groudon for Dialga. Wonder Guard Xerneas can provide Substitute + Baton Pass support for Dialga and potentially set entry hazards, or paralyze or Dark Void switch-ins, and can function with high efficacy due to forcing opposing Giratina and Yveltal out. Other physical Mold Breaker users, such as Choice Band Mega Rayquaza and Mega Tyranitar, are also good teammates thanks to their ability to pressure Dialga's checks. Bulky variants of Choice Band + Shadow Tag Mega Mewtwo X can OHKO Wonder Guard Xerneas while having the bulk to revenge kill Lum Huge Power Mega Gyarados with bulk investment if healthy, making it a great partner. Additionally, it can come in on a double against Wonder Guard users running Gastro Acid that often forgo Shed Shell, such as Arceus, Mega Beedrill, and Mega Manectric, and remove them. Huge Power Dark-types like Mega Gyarados can ease Dialga's setup by Pursuit trapping Prankster Giratina. Substitute or Shell Smash + Baton Pass Wonder Guard users aside from Xerneas, like Mega Swampert and Primal Groudon, are also good partners, as they can lure opposing Prankster Giratina in, creating mind games that, if won, allow them to retain momentum or pass either a Substitute or a Shell Smash boost to Dialga. Finally, defensive Wonder Guard users are great partners, as they can remove hazards, set their own, act as a cleric, prevent opposing passing of Substitutes or boosts with Whirlwind, and provide slow pivoting support for Dialga.

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

Dark Void is an alternative over Spore that ignores opposing Safety Goggles, but is usually not worth it, as switch-ins to Spore Dialga, such as Safety Goggles variants Wonder Guard Primal Kyogre and Blissey, are relatively rare and face the inherent risk of getting removed by Shadow Tag users. Glare and Taunt are other options to gain turns to set up with Shell Smash; Glare doesn't wear off after a set amount of turns and Taunt more effectively deals with passive switch-ins, such as Primal Kyogre and Blissey variants forgoing Knock Off. Alternatively, Stealth Rock and other hazards can support Dialga's team, capitalizing on its good bulk and ability to force out much of the metagame when healthy. However, Dialga often struggles to sweep without running a disruption move. Blue Flare is an option over Searing Shot to OHKO opposing Registeel, but is generally not worth it, as Registeel often cannot do much back to Dialga even if it survives a hit. Recover is an option to greatly increase Dialga's longevity, though using the move can come at the cost of momentum and other options are generally more useful for Dialga's function. Spiky Shield is an alternative over King's Shield that still allows boosted Dialga to beat opposing Fake Out + Extreme Speed users if healthy and also blocks Gastro Acid and status like Glare and Spore. However, King's Shield is more useful in a variety of instances, such as versus Choice Band Mold Breaker Mega Rayquaza and Shadow Tag Mega Mewtwo X. Dialga can opt to run Flame Plate or Burn Drive, with Fire-type Judgment and Techno Blast respectively replacing Searing Shot and bulky Steel-type teammate for Imposter-proofing. However, the easy Imposter-proofing that Draco Plate and Iron Plate provide, as well as Plate Judgment's power difference over Flash Cannon and Spacial Rend, usually make running Draco Plate and Iron Plate more worthwhile. Leftovers and Lum Berry can be used to increase Dialga's longevity and allow Dialga to sweep more easily by curing status once, respectively; Leftovers also synergizes well with King's Shield. However, both items by curing status once, respectively; Leftovers also synergizes well with King's Shield. However, both items mean Dialga cannot make use of Plate + Judgment, making Imposter-proofing more difficult. If Leftovers is used, an alternative spread of 240 HP / 252 SpA / 16 Spe with a Modest nature is preferred due to reaching a jump point in Leftovers recovery. Shed Shell allows Dialga to escape opposing Shadow Tag users, though most Shadow Tag users are unable to switch in on unboosted Dialga anyway. Mental Herb can work as it gives Dialga a better matchup against teams reliant on Prankster + Encore to prevent it from sweeping, but is usually not worth it as Prankster Giratina cannot switch in on unboosted Dialga anyway. Alternative spreads of 200 HP / 252 SpA / 56 Spe, 104 HP / 4 Def / 252 SpA / 148 Spe, and 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe, all with Modest natures, can be run on Dialga to outspeed Choice Scarf Shadow Tag Primal Groudon after a Shell Smash, Deoxys-S lacking a Choice Scarf after a Shell Smash, and Mega Mewtwo Y after Sticky Web when unboosted, respectively. Additionally, a Timid nature could be run to more safely stay in against offensive Pokemon with base 90 Speed, namely Primal Groudon. However, these spreads lose out on bulk and power both, so are almost never worth it.

A Choice Specs set with Draco Meteor or Spacial Rend, Flash Cannon; Searing Shot, and Volt Switch is a viable option, as Dialga’s superior defensive typing gives it a niche over Mega Latios. Both Draco Meteor and Spacial Rend OHKO opposing Giratina but the former is usually preferred as it also OHKOes all Primal Groudon variants. Secret Sword could be run over Searing Shot as it nails a would-be check in Wonder Guard Blissey, though running it gives Dialga a harder time breaking through opposing Mega Steelix and Mega Scizor. Alternatively Trick hinders common switch-ins, like Wonder Guard Blissey and Registeel. However, Choice Specs Mold Breaker Dialga is often too slow to pose an effective threat against offensive teams, and is much more vulnerable to offensive Shadow Tag users, as well as Shadow Tag + Perish Song users like Lugia. Additionally, Dialga can run a fringe offensive Wonder Guard set with Shell Smash, Earth Plate or Fist Plate Judgment, and two coverage moves to hit opposing Wonder Guard users and Prankster Giratina. Viable options include Freeze-Dry, Grass Knot, Searing Shot, Moonblast, Bug Buzz, Night Daze, and Knock Off, though coverage moves that can damage Dialga itself, such as Secret Sword, Aura Sphere, Thousand Arrows, and Earth Power, are to be avoided as they prevent Dialga from Imposter-proofing itself. Gastro Acid could also be used over one of the coverage moveslots to threaten opposing Wonder Guard users in a wider range of matchups, although it takes a turn to use and requires good prediction against Whirlwind Wonder Guard users Dialga's coverage does not allow it to threaten. However, Wonder Guard Shell Smash Dialga is mostly outclassed by Mega Lucario as a Steel-type Shell Smash Wonder Guard sweeper due to the latter's ability to OHKO Primal Groudon after Shell Smash with a STAB move that also has its uses against opposing Wonder Guard users.

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

**Offensive Shadow Tag Users**: Offensive Shadow Tag users, such as Choice Scarf Primal Groudon, Mega Mewtwo X, and Mega Latios running Earth Power, can threaten the vast majority of Dialga sets in a one-on-one situation if Dialga is unboosted. Some Choice Scarf Shadow Tag users, such as Primal Groudon and Mega Rayquaza, can threaten boosted Dialga running the standard spread; some others, like Choice Scarf Mega Mewtwo Y and the rare Choice Scarf Mega Mewtwo X, can threaten virtually all Dialga spreads worth running. However, offensive Shadow Tag users usually cannot switch in to Dialga safely, and require pivoting support to reliably switch in.

**Faster Offensive Pokemon**: Most faster offensive Pokemon can threaten Dialga in a one-on-one situation, even if Dialga is healthy. In particular, Mold Breaker users that outspeed Dialga, such as Primal Groudon running more Speed investment, Mega Rayquaza, and Mega Latios, are threatening due to having relatively few switch-ins, so momentum is often lost to the opposing team. However, Dialga sets running King's Shield can mostly circumvent this issue against Choice item Mold Breaker users, as the opposing Pokemon's move is scouted. Huge Power, Protean, and rare Parental Bond users are also issues for Dialga, as much of the time they force it out by threatening an OHKO; however, these Pokemon are inherently matchup-dependent, and they don't pose an immediate threat against opposing Wonder Guard users in an unfavorable matchup. Choice Scarf No Guard users, such as Mega Mewtwo Y and Mega Aerodactyl, can outspeed Dialga even after a Shell Smash and force it out; however, being locked into a single move is easily exploitable and using Trick means in most cases these Pokemon cannot outspeed Dialga after Shell Smash for the rest of the battle.

**Specially Defensive Pokemon**: Specially defensive Pokemon, like Wonder Guard Blissey and specially defensive Primal Kyogre, can switch in on unboosted Dialga. In particular Wonder Guard Blissey is difficult for Dialga to break through, especially when running Whirlwind or Knock Off, due to its phenomenal special bulk. However, most specially defensive Pokemon can be broken through if Dialga gets enough turns from disruption to accumulate sufficient boosts from Shell Smash. Magic Guard Ho-Oh can somewhat circumvent this by running Toxic Orb, though it is prone to getting removed by Shadow Tag users and cannot meaningfully pressure a healthy Dialga.

**Revenge Killers**: Revenge killers, in particular -ate Speed users like Kyurem-B, Mega Diancie, and Mega Abomasnow, as well as Huge Power Slaking and Regigigas, can pick off weakened Dialga lacking King's Shield, especially after a Shell Smash. Huge Power Dark-types, with Knock Off also annoy Dialga when healthy, forcing it to play mind games between Knock Off and Pursuit. Additionally, Huge Power Dark-types can force 50-50s against boosted Dialga if running Sucker Punch, with Mega Gyarados and Mega Tyranitar always OHKOing Dialga if a successful prediction is made regardless of the latter's health. Imposter users can also usually dissuade Dialga sets not running Draco Plate from setting up by threatening a countersweep. However, no revenge killers bar Imposter Chansey can safely switch in on boosted Dialga, requiring a teammate to be sacked or heavy pivoting support to consistently threaten Dialga throughout the game.

**Prankster Users**: Prankster users besides Giratina, such as Yveltal and the occasional Prankster Registeel or Chansey, can switch in on most Dialga sets and force it out with Encore or Haze, especially if running Safety Goggles. While it is generally discouraged from doing so, Prankster Giratina can also come in on Dialga on a predict in an emergency and force it out with Encore. However, Prankster users aside from Giratina are relatively rare, and Prankster Giratina is threatened by Dragon-type STAB from Dialga.

**Item Removal**: Removing Dialga's Plate can severely hinder its sweeping ability, particularly if Dialga is running Draco Plate. Knock Off users, like Wonder Guard Blissey, can remove Dialga's item with relative ease; Prankster Trick users, while niche, can also annoy Dialga, especially when Dialga's Plate is removed by a Pokemon it ordinarily forces out, like Giratina. However, the opportunity cost of running item removal often dissuades switch-ins to Dialga from running Knock Off or Trick, and Prankster Trick users are quite rare.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Mbouchon, 515077]]
- Quality checked by: [[Daylight, 562267], [berry, 226455]]
- Grammar checked by: [[username1, userid1]]

I have absolutely no changes to make from this because it's incredibly in depth. great job
We discussed this on discord, but in the future it may be worth paring long analyses like this down in order to avoid overloading readers (or breaking long in-depth analyses like these into two more focused sets.)

will re-read after mbouchon trims some stuff down and stamp 100% officially
e: qc 2/2 i have 0 changes.
 
Last edited:

Isaiah

Here today, gone tomorrow
is a Site Content Manageris an official Team Rateris a Battle Simulator Administratoris a Top Social Media Contributoris a Member of Senior Staffis a Community Contributoris a Top Tiering Contributoris a Top Contributor
UM/OM Leader
[SET]
name: Shell Smash Sweeper
move 1: Spore / King's Shield / Recover
move 2: Shell Smash
move 3: Judgment / Spacial Rend
move 4: Searing Shot / Flash Cannon / Judgment
item: Draco Plate / Iron Plate
ability: Mold Breaker
nature: Modest
evs: 232 HP / 8 Def / 252 SpA / 16 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Mold Breaker Dialga is a powerful sweeper due to its great STAB moves, great defensive typing, and good bulk. Spore creates setup opportunities for Dialga and allows for convenient Imposter-proofing with a Safety Goggles teammate. Alternatively, King's Shield takes advantage of Dialga's good bulk to more easily sweep teams reliant on Huge Power Slaking and Regigigas ands well as -ate Speed users like Kyurem-B, Mega Abomasnow, and Mega Rayquaza to revenge kill boosted threats. King's Shield also grants healthy Dialga a slightly favorable chance to win a 1v1the one-on-one against Choice Band Shadow Tag Mega Mewtwo X. Alternatively, Dialga can forgo Spore or King’s Shield for a 3-attack set with Iron Plate,(comma) Judgment, Spacial Rend, and Searing Shot. Such a set hits much of the metagame super effectively,(comma) and can be Imposter-proofed by Whirlwind Wonder Guard Blissey or fringe sets like specially defensive Mega Audino. Additionally, forgoing Draco Plate means Dialga can't lose access to its Dragon-type STAB move; thus, its offensive prowess is less easily hampered by Knock Off and Trick. leaves Dialga less vulnerable to having its offensive prowess hampered by Knock Off or Trick, due to Dragon-type STAB being the most central to its offensive presence. Recover is an option to greatly increase Dialga's longevity, allowing Dialgait to set up on passive foes that can still chip it, like Wonder Guard Primal Kyogre running Scald, much more easily; however, though forgoing King's Shield leaves boosted Dialga more vulnerable to Refrigerate and Pixilate users as well as Huge Power Slaking and Regigigas. Shell Smash bolsters Dialga's offensive prowess, allowing it to sweep a large portion of weakened teams after a boost. Dragon-type Judgment allows for easy Imposter-proofing with Giratina if forgoing Flash Cannon,(comma) and hits while also hitting slightly harder than Spacial Rend, notably OHKOing Aerilate Mega Rayquaza when unboosted and OHKOing offensive Arceus and Mega Mewtwo Y after Shell Smash. achieving the OHKO against all Aerilate Mega Rayquaza variants when unboosted, as well as offensive Arceus and Mega Mewtwo Y after Shell Smash. Spacial Rend is usable alongside Iron Plate Judgment, thoughbut this comes at the cost of Dialga becoming more difficult to Imposter-proof; it is worth noting, however, that Spacial Rend does makes(add) Dialga less vulnerable to Knock Off and Trick. Searing Shot complements Dialga's Dragon-type STAB moves well and threatens Steel-types like Registeel and Wonder Guard Mega Scizor and Escavalier. Alternatively, Flash Cannon, alternatively, threatens Fairy-type foes like Wonder Guard Xerneas, Mega Audino, and Mega Gardevoir much more effectively than Searing Shot would. The given EV spread maximizes Dialga's overall bulk and damage output while outspeeding base 150 Speed Pokemon, like Mega Aerodactyl and Deoxys-A, after a Shell Smash.(period); a Modest nature further bolsters Dialga's offensive power.

Dialga works well alongside the metagame's most dominant core of Mold Breaker Primal Groudon, Prankster Giratina, and Substitute + Baton Pass Wonder Guard Xerneas. Dialga complements Primal Groudon by way of its defensive utility, (considering that the "defensive utility" wasn't explained, this seems redundant) beating the revenge killers that Primal Groudonit struggles with, such as Aerilate Mega Rayquaza and Huge Power Mega Gyarados if lacking Sucker Punch. Additionally, Dialga can threaten the most common switch-in to Primal Groudon in Prankster Giratina. In return, Primal Groudon can switch into most Wonder Guard Xerneas sets as well as checks to Dialga, such as Wonder Guard Blissey and Ho-Oh. Prankster Giratina can switch into opposing Primal Groudon for Dialga. Wonder Guard Xerneas can provide Substitute + Baton Pass support for Dialga and potentially set entry hazards, or paralyze or Dark Void switch-ins, and can function with high efficacy due to forcing opposing Giratina and Yveltal out. Other physical Mold Breaker users, such as Choice Band Mega Rayquaza and Mega Tyranitar, are also good teammates thanks to their ability to pressure Dialga's checks. Bulky variants of Choice Band + Shadow Tag Mega Mewtwo X can OHKO Wonder Guard Xerneas while having the bulk to revenge kill bulky Lum Berry Huge Power Mega Gyarados with bulk investment if healthy, making it a great partner. Additionally, itChoice Band + Shadow Tag Mega Mewtwo can switch into, trap, and remove Wonder Guard users like Arceus, Mega Beedrill, and Mega Manetric if they lack Shed Shell or don't use Gastro Acid. can come in on a double against Wonder Guard users running Gastro Acid that often forgo Shed Shell, such as Arceus, Mega Beedrill, and Mega Manectric, and remove them. Huge Power Dark-types like Mega Gyarados can ease Dialga's setup by Pursuit trapping Prankster Giratina. Substitute orand Shell Smash + Baton Pass Wonder Guard users aside from Xerneas, like Mega Swampert and Primal Groudon, can lure in Prankster Giratina and take advantage of mindgame scenarios to retain momentum by passing either a Substitute or Shell Smash boost to Dialga. are also good partners, as they can lure opposing Prankster Giratina in, creating mind games that, if won, allow them to retain momentum or pass either a Substitute or a Shell Smash boost to Dialga. Finally, defensive Wonder Guard users are great partners, as they can remove and set entry hazards, set their own, act as a clerics(add), use Whirlwind to prevent Substitutes and boosts from being passed, opposing passing of Substitutes or boosts with Whirlwind, and provide slow pivoting support for Dialga.

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

Dark Void is an alternative over Spore that ignores opposing Safety Goggles,(comma) but is usually not worth it, as switch-ins to Spore Dialga, such as Safety Goggles variants Wonder Guard Primal Kyogre and Blissey, are relatively rare. Glare and Taunt give more opportunities to set up with Shell Smash;are other options to gain turns to set up with Shell Smash; Glare doesn't wear off after a set amount of turns and (this is just dex info) Taunt more effectively deals with passive switch-ins, such as Primal Kyogre and Blissey variants forgoing Knock Off. Alternatively, Stealth Rock and other entry hazards can support Dialga's team, capitalizing on its good bulk and ability to force out much of the metagame when healthy, though Dialga often struggles to sweep without running a disruption move. Secret Sword could be used over Searing Shot to still threaten most Steel-types while also threatening Wonder Guard Blissey, but running the move means Dialga will not be able to OHKO Registeel, Mega Steelix, and Wonder Guard Mega Scizor.(period) from full. Recover is an option to greatly increase Dialga's longevity,(comma) but sacrifices momentum and other generally more useful options.though using the move can come at the cost of momentum and other options are generally more useful for Dialga's function. Dialga can opt to run Flame Plate + Judgment or Burn Drive + Techno Blast instead of Searing Shot, but its bulky Steel-type Imposter-proof will need to be replaced.,(comma) with Fire-type Judgment and Techno Blast respectively replacing Searing Shot and bulky Steel-type teammate for Imposter-proofing. HoweverOn the other hand, the easy Imposter-proofing provided by Judgment and athat Draco Plate andor Iron Plate is usually more worthwhile. provide, as well as Plate Judgment's power difference over Flash Cannon and Spacial Rend, (removed dex info) usually make running Draco Plate and Iron Plate more worthwhile. Leftovers gives Dialga more longevity, and Lum Berry can be used to increase Dialga's longevity and allows(add) Dialga to sweep more easily by curing status once (This whole thing is dex info, but might be unavoidable), respectively; Leftovers also synergizes well with King's Shield. However, both items by curing status once, respectively; Leftovers also synergizes well with King's Shield. However, both items mean Dialga cannot make use of Plate + Judgment, making Imposter-proofing more difficult. If Leftovers is used, a spread of 240 HP / 252 SpA / 16 Spe with a Modest nature is preferred due to reaching a jump point in Leftovers recovery. Alternative spreads of 200 HP / 252 SpA / 56 Spe, 104 HP / 4 Def / 252 SpA / 148 Spe, and 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe, all with Modest natures, can be run on Dialga to outspeed Choice Scarf Shadow Tag Primal Groudon after a Shell Smash, Deoxys-S lacking a Choice Scarf after a Shell Smash, and Mega Mewtwo Y after Sticky Web when unboosted, respectively. However, these spreads sacrifice bulk and power, so they're lose out on bulk and power both, so are almost never worth it. (If they're almost never worth it, are they even worth mentioning to such an elaborate xtent?)

A Choice Specs set with Draco Meteor or Spacial Rend, Flash Cannon, Searing Shot, and Volt Switch is a viable option, as Dialga’s superior defensive typing gives it a niche over Mega Latios. Both Draco Meteor and Spacial Rend OHKO opposing Giratina,(comma) but the former is usually preferred,(comma) as it also OHKOes all Primal Groudon variants. Secret Sword could be run over Searing Shot,(comma) as it nails a would-be check in Wonder Guard Blissey, thoughbut running it gives Dialga a harder time breaking through opposing Mega Steelix and Mega Scizor. Alternatively,(comma) Trick hinders common switch-ins, like Wonder Guard Blissey and Registeel. However, Choice Specs Mold Breaker Dialga is often too slow to pose an effective threat against offensive teams,(comma) and is much more vulnerable to offensive Shadow Tag users, as well asnamely Shadow Tag + Perish Song users like Lugia. Additionally, Dialga can run a fringe offensive Wonder Guard set with Shell Smash, Judgment with Earth Plate or Fist Plate Judgment, and two coverage moves to hit opposing Wonder Guard users and Prankster Giratina. Viable coverage options include Freeze-Dry, Grass Knot, Searing Shot, Moonblast, Bug Buzz, Night Daze, and Knock Off;(semicolon), though coverage moves that can damage Dialga super effectivelyitself, such as Secret Sword, Aura Sphere, Thousand Arrows, and Earth Power, are to be avoided,(comma) as they prevent Dialga from Imposter-proofing itself. Gastro Acid could also be used over one of the coverage moveslots to threaten opposing Wonder Guard users in a wider range of matchups. However, (It's extremely unclear what this however is contradicting, so I'm just gonna remove it)Wonder Guard Shell Smash Dialga is an option, but it (maybe...?) is mostly outclassed by Mega Lucario as a Steel-type Shell Smash Wonder Guard sweeper due to the latter's ability to OHKO Primal Groudon after Shell Smash with a STAB move.

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

**Offensive Shadow Tag Users**: Offensive Shadow Tag users like Earth Power Mega Latios can threaten the vast majority of unboosted Dialga; certain Choice Scarf Shadow Tag users, such as Primal Groudon, Mega Rayquaza, and Mega Mewtwo X and Y, can threaten Dialga even after it boosts its stats. , such as Choice Scarf Primal Groudon, Mega Mewtwo X, and Mega Latios running Earth Power, can threaten the vast majority of Dialga sets in a one-on-one situation if Dialga is unboosted. Some Choice Scarf Shadow Tag users, such as Primal Groudon and Mega Rayquaza, can threaten boosted Dialga running the standard spread; some others, like Choice Scarf Mega Mewtwo Y and the rare Choice Scarf Mega Mewtwo X, can threaten virtually all Dialga spreads worth running. However, offensive Shadow Tag users usually cannot switch in to Dialga safely,(comma) and require pivoting support to reliably switch in.

**Faster Offensive Pokemon**: Most faster offensive Pokemon can threaten Dialga in a one-on-one situation, even if Dialga is healthy. In particular, Mold Breaker users that outspeed Dialga, such as Primal Groudon running more Speed investment, Mega Rayquaza, and Mega Latios, are threatening due to having relatively few switch-ins, so momentum is often lost to the opposing team. However, Dialga sets running King's Shield can mostly circumvent this issue against Choice item Mold Breaker users, as the opposing Pokemon's move is scouted. Huge Power, Protean, and rare Parental Bond users are also issues for Dialga, as they often much of the time they force it out by threatening an OHKO; however, these Pokemon don't pose an immediate threat if Dialga is paired with Wonder Guard users. are inherently matchup-dependent, and they don't pose an immediate threat against opposing Wonder Guard users in an unfavorable matchup. Choice Scarf No Guard users, such as Mega Mewtwo Y and Mega Aerodactyl, can outspeed Dialga even after a Shell Smash and force it out; however, being Choice-locked into a single move is easily exploitable,(comma) and these Pokemon cannot outspeed boosted Dialga if they use Trick. using Trick means in most cases these Pokemon cannot outspeed Dialga after Shell Smash for the rest of the battle.

**Specially Defensive Pokemon**: Specially defensive Pokemon, like Wonder Guard Blissey and specially defensive Primal Kyogre, can switch into on unboosted Dialga. In particular,(comma) Wonder Guard Blissey is difficult for Dialga to break through, especially if it iswhen running Whirlwind or Knock Off.(period), due to its phenomenal special bulk. However, most specially defensive Pokemon can be broken through if Dialga gets enough free turns from disruption to accumulate sufficient boosts from Shell Smash. Magic Guard Ho-Oh can somewhat circumvent this by running Toxic Orb, though it is prone to getting removed by Shadow Tag users and cannot meaningfully pressure a healthy Dialga.

**Revenge Killers**: Revenge killers, in particularHuge Power users like Slaking and Regigigas and (subjective, but starting with hyphen is kinda awkward) -ate Speed users like Kyurem-B, Mega Diancie, and Mega Abomasnow, as well as Huge Power Slaking and Regigigas, can pick off weakened Dialga lacking King's Shield, especially after a Shell Smash. Huge Power Dark-types,(comma) with Knock Off also annoy healthy Dialga,(comma) when healthy, forcing it to play mind(space)games between Knock Off and Pursuit. Additionally, Huge Power Dark-types with Sucker Punch can force 50-50scoinflip scenarios against boosted Dialga,(comma) if running Sucker Punch, with Mega Gyarados and Mega Tyranitar always OHKOing Dialga if a successful prediction is made.(period) regardless of the latter's health. Imposter users can also usually dissuade Dialga sets not running Draco Plate from setting up by threatening a countersweep. However, no revenge killers bar Imposter Chansey can safely switch in on boosted Dialga without first sacking a teammate or being pivoted in., requiring a teammate to be sacked or heavy pivoting support to consistently threaten Dialga throughout the game.

**Prankster Users**: Prankster users besides Giratina, such as Yveltal and the occasional Prankster Registeel or Chansey, can switch into on most Dialga sets and force it out with Encore or Haze, especially if they are running Safety Goggles. While it is generally discouraged from doing so, Prankster Giratina can also switch into Dialga after a prediction if need be and force it out with Encore.come in on Dialga on a predict in an emergency and force it out with Encore. However, Prankster users aside from Giratina are relatively rare, and Prankster Giratina is threatened by Dragon-type STAB from Dialga.

**Item Removal**: Removing Dialga's Plate can severely hinder its sweeping ability, particularly if Dialga is running Draco Plate. Knock Off users, like Wonder Guard Blissey, can remove Dialga's item with relative ease; Prankster Trick users, while niche, can also annoy Dialga, especially when Dialga's Plate is removed by a Pokemon it ordinarily forces out, like Giratina. However, the opportunity cost of running item removal often dissuades switch-ins to Dialga from running Knock Off or Trick, and Prankster Trick users are quite rare.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Mbouchon, 515077]]
- Quality checked by: [[Daylight, 562267], [username2, userid2]]
- Grammar checked by: [[Isaiah, 375662]]

GP 1/1!
GP Team done
 
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