ZU Shuckle

Aaronboyer

Aaronboyer

Something Worth Fighting For
is a Contributor to Smogonis a Metagame Resource Contributor Alumnus
[OVERVIEW]
Shuckle is ZU's most reliable Sticky Web setter, nearly guaranteeing its setup due to the combination of Sturdy + Mental Herb. It also differentiates itself from other Sticky Web setters such as Smeargle, Leavanny, and Masquerain with its fantastic bulk and longevity, potentially allowing it to set up Sticky Web more than once per game, as well as access to Stealth Rock and Encore. Shuckle has several additional utility moves such as Infestation and Knock Off that can circumvent its passivity to some degree and provide extra team support. However, Shuckle's passivity is still its primary issue due to its pathetic attacking stats, allowing it to easily be overwhelmed and worn down by super effective attacks. Shuckle's passiveness also invites entry hazard removers, whereas Leavanny and Masquerain can actually scare off Pokemon such as Silvally-Water and Altaria, respectively, due to their offensive presence and higher Speed. Smeargle also has access to Spore, which can incapacitate the aforementioned Defog users without needing to predict like Shuckle does with Encore. Shuckle is also very one-dimensional, only really fitting on Sticky Web hyper offense teams. Lastly, Shuckle is reliant on passive damage such as Infestation and Toxic to hurt foes, which further invites Pokemon such as Altaria and Komala to come in and remove entry hazards.

[SET]
name: Sticky Web
move 1: Sticky Web
move 2: Stealth Rock
move 3: Encore
move 4: Infestation / Toxic / Knock Off
item: Mental Herb
ability: Sturdy
nature: Calm / Careful
evs: 248 HP / 8 Def / 252 SpD
ivs: 0 Atk

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Encore can lock Shuckle's foes into setup moves and weak attacks, generating free turns for Shuckle's teammates to switch in and take advantage of them or at the very least force switches. Infestation prevents the foe from switching, and nothing is immune to it, working well in tandem with Encore by guaranteeing free turns for Shuckle's teammates. Toxic is another option and nails Pokemon such as Gourgeist-XL and Silvally-Water. This option in particular makes Shuckle susceptible to Taunt after its Mental Herb has been used up, however. Knock Off is a third option for Shuckle's last moveslot that prevents it from being Taunt bait and has the added benefit of removing items such as Electivire's Choice Scarf and Altaria's Leftovers.

Set Details
========
A Calm nature should be utilized with Infestation or Toxic along with 0 Attack IVs. A Careful nature should be utilized with Knock Off along with 31 Attack IVs. Mental Herb nullifies the effects of Taunt and Encore from users such as Floatzel and Volbeat once, guaranteeing Sticky Web's setup. Sturdy is Shuckle's only worthwhile ability, allowing it to survive hits such as Sheer Force Rampardos's Rock Slide, ensuring Sticky Web will be set up.

Usage Tips
========
Sticky Web is the primary reason for running Shuckle, so setting it up should be its priority against most standard balance and offensive teams. In particular, in niche team matchups such as against Trick Room and stall, moves such as Encore and Knock Off should take precedence, as Sticky Web doesn't really come into effect in these matchups and Shuckle's utility moves have even greater importance through locking foes into ineffective moves or removing items. Despite Shuckle being a dedicated Sticky Web lead, its bulk typically allows it to set up entry hazards again later in the game. If Shuckle is at low health, where it cannot be preserved, letting it faint allows an offensive teammate to switch in freely without fear of taking a massive hit. Early- to mid-game after Sticky Web has been set, Shuckle can act as a Normal-type answer and blanket check for special attackers so that its frail teammates don't have to take unnecessary hits. If a Defog user switches in and you predict them to try removing Shuckle's Sticky Web and Stealth Rock, switch Shuckle out to a Defiant or Competitive user such as Pawniard, Purugly, or Meowstic-F. Similarly, if a Rapid Spin user such as Komala comes into remove entry hazards, switch directly to your Ghost-type.

Team Options
========
Wallbreakers such as Simipour, Raticate, Rampardos, and Pinsir are mandatory to utilize alongside Shuckle, as they can outspeed most unboosted foes and punch holes in the opposing team. Notably, they are able to outspeed foes such as Choice Scarf Electivire and Floatzel they weren't able to outspeed before. Defog deterrents such as Pawniard and Purugly can help keep Sticky Web on the field. Pokemon such as Silvally-Fighting, Abomasnow, and Electivire can check and apply offensive pressure to common entry hazard removers such as Komala, Altaria, and Silvally-Water to help keep entry hazards on the field. Offensive Flying-types and Levitate users such as Swanna, Ninjask, and Misdreavus are not affected by Sticky Web and therefore are harder to revenge kill. Checks to some of these Pokemon such as Choice Scarf Electivire for Swanna and Ninjask and Swords Dance Silvally-Dark for Misdreavus make great teammates.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
A physically defensive EV spread could be utilized over a specially defensive one to take advantage of Shuckle's notable resistances to Normal- and Poison-types such as Komala, Bouffalant, and Muk. However, Shuckle is better off utilizing a specially defensive spread, as Shuckle will still lose to Pokemon such as Swords Dance + Stone Edge Pinsir and Rampardos. Leftovers could be utilized over Mental Herb to give Shuckle access to passive recovery. However, Shuckle's susceptibility to Taunt and Encore wouldn't make it worthwhile, as setting Sticky Web should be its focus, not longevity necessarily. A set of Shell Smash, Rest, Infestation, and Toxic alongside Contrary allows Shuckle to more easily stall out foes, but it is extremely passive, is even more vulnerable to Taunt and Encore, and forgoes hazard setting options.

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

**Wallbreakers**: Wallbreakers such as Choice Specs Floatzel, Nasty Plot Simipour, Golem, and Rampardos can 2HKO Shuckle with their super effective STAB attacks.

**Taunt, Encore, and Substitute Users**: Although Shuckle's Mental Herb can nullify Taunt and Encore once, users such as Vigoroth, Floatzel, and Volbeat can Taunt or Encore Shuckle again to prevent it from utilizing its other support moves. Additionally, Substitute users such as Regigigas and Bouffalant can shield themselves from status but must be wary of being locked into Substitute, as Encore can generate free turns for Shuckle to switch out and let an offensive teammate set up.

**Entry Hazard Removal**: Defog and Rapid Spin users such as Silvally-Water, Silvally-Fighting, Altaria, and Komala can all easily switch into Shuckle and remove Sticky Web and, to a lesser extent, Stealth Rock. Furthermore, the former two don't mind Knock Off, as their specific Memories cannot be removed, while the latter two don't mind Toxic due to their abilities.

**Residual Damage**: Shuckle is extremely prone to being worn down over time due to its lack of reliable and passive recovery options, susceptibility to Stealth Rock among other entry hazards, and common weaknesses such as Water and Rock.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Aaronboyer, 239454]]
- Quality checked by: [[5gen, 296755], [Xayah, 167012], [BloodAce0107, 435539]]
- Grammar checked by: [[The Dutch Plumberjack, 232216], [lotiasite, 302985]
 
Last edited:
am check. comments in bold. feel free accept or decline anything you want.
Aaronboyer said:
[OVERVIEW]
  • Shuckle is ZU’s most reliable Sticky Web setter, nearly guaranteeing its setup due to the combination of Sturdy + Mental Herb.
  • Shuckle's outstanding bulk also differentiates it from other Sticky Web setters such as Smeargle, Leavanny, and Masquerain as its the only one that can set up Sticky Web more than once per game. I understand what you mean, but saying it in this manner sounds awkward because that's not an exclusive trait. Instead, you should say something like "Differentiates itself through its bulk and longevity, as well as having access to Stealth Rock and Encore."
  • Shuckle has several additional utility moves such as Encore, Stealth Rock, and Knock Off that can circumvent Shuckle's passivity to some degree and provide extra team support. Adjust with changes made above (no need to mention SR and Encore again, can add Infestation instead)
  • However, Shuckle's passivity is still its primary issue due to its pathetic attacking stats, allowing it to easily be overwhelmed and worn down by super effective attacks . Would also add that its passiveness invites in hazard removers, whereas Leavanny and Masquerain can actually touch things like Altaria, Silv-Water, Komala, etc respectively.
  • Shuckle is also very one-dimensional, only really fitting on Sticky Web hyper offense teams.
  • Lastly, Shuckle is reliant on passive damage such as Infestation and Toxic recoil to hurt foes, which further invites Pokemon such as Altaria and Komala to come in and remove Sticky Web and Stealth Rock. Nevertheless, Shuckle's defensive attributes distinguish itself from its Sticky Web brethren and allow itself to shape the archetype. Adjust with suggested changes above. Can be slimmed down.

[SET]
name: Sticky Web
move 1: Sticky Web
move 2: Stealth Rock
move 3: Encore
move 4: Infestation / Toxic / Knock Off
item: Mental Herb
ability: Sturdy
nature: Calm / Careful
evs: 248 HP / 8 Def / 252 SpD
ivs: 0 Atk

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
  • Shuckle's most important move, Sticky Web, lowers the Speed of a grounded foe by one stage as they switch in. This allows Shuckle's teammates to have a greater likelihood of outspeeding the opposing team. No need to describe Sticky Web as it comes off as fluff. Should just say something like "Access to Sticky Web and Stealth Rock enables Shuckle to act as an effective lead."
  • Encore can lock Shuckle's foes into setup and weak-attacking moves, generating free turns for Shuckle's teammates to switch in, take advantage of, or at the very least force switches. Too much fluff here as well; can be made more concise. Can say something like "Encore punishes opposing hazard setters, as well as deterring setup Pokemon such as [examples] who seek to take advantage of Shuckle's passiveness." Encore providing free turns for partners is more of a usage tips kind of thing imo, up to you.
  • Infestation prevents the foe from trapping switching and has no type-immunities, working well in tandem with Encore by guaranteeing free turns for Shuckle's teammates. Adjust the info here if you change anything above.
  • Toxic is another option that inflicts recoil, gradually taking more and more health away from Pokemon such as Gourgeist-XL and Silvally-Water. This option in particular makes Shuckle susceptible to Taunt after its Mental Herb has been used up. Remove the fluff here. Can also combine the points into one sentence to make things more concise.
  • Knock Off is yet a third option for Shuckle's last moveslot that isn't able to be Taunted and has the added benefit of removing items such as Electivire's Choice Scarf. Kind of fluffy here; would just focus on the specific utility Knock Off has (i.e removing lefties from Altaria and Komala, p much Pokemon that want to freely come in).
Set Details
========
  • A Calm nature should be utilized with Infestation or Toxic along with 0 Attack IVs. A Careful nature should be utilized with Knock Off along with 31 Attack IVs.
  • Mental Herb alleviates the effects of Taunt and Encore once, ensuring that Shuckle will be able to set up Sticky Web at least once per game. Would remove the fluff and instead list examples of which mons Mental Herb helps against.
  • Sturdy is Shuckle's only worthwhile ability, allowing it to survive hits such as Sheer Force Rampardos's Head Smash Rock Slide and Choice Band Floatzel's Liquidation on a critical hit, ensuring Sticky Web will be set up. Can be made more concise. Floatzel example is not likely enough so I'd remove that mention tbh.
Usage Tips
========

  • Sticky Web is the primary reason for running Shuckle, so setting Sticky Web should be its priority against seems like an incomplete thought. In certain, niche team matchups such as playing against Trick Room and Stall, moves such as Encore and Knock Off should take precedence. Think that's too niche to focus on in the first point, and you should state why they "take precedence" as well (from a reader's perspective this comes off as sort of a random point).
  • Despite Shuckle being a dedicated Sticky Web lead, its bulk typically allows it to be able to set up entry hazards again later in the game. If Shuckle is at low health where it cannot be preserved, letting it faint allows for an offensive teammate to switch in freely without fear of taking a massive hit.
  • If a Defog user switches in and you predict them to try and remove Shuckle's Sticky Web and Stealth Rock, switch Shuckle out into a Defiant- or Competitive-user such as Purugly, Pawniard, and Meowstic-F. Similarly, if a Rapid Spin user such as Komala comes into remove entry hazards, switch directly into your Ghost-type. Doing so either prevents the opponent from successfully removing entry hazards or puts a lot of offensive pressure on the opponent with either +2 Attack or Special Attack. Fluff
Would also add a point about how Shuckle's bulk enables to check certain threats, since that's one of its main differentiators with other Web users. Lastly, you need to talk about how Shuckle uses Encore and Infestation to help its teammates and take advantage of certain mons/situations.

Team Options
========
  • Despite Shuckle's defensive nature, Sticky Web teams are hyper offensive and nature, so capitalizing upon the defensive utility brought forth by Shuckle's offensive teammates keeps up momentum. Wording here is slightly confusing. Would be more appropriate to say that Shuckle should be used to switch into attacks that offensive Pokemon typically avoid.
  • Wallbreakers such as Simipour, Raticate, Rampardos, and Pinsir are mandatory to utilize alongside Shuckle, as they provide the offensive pressure that can punish and force opposing teams into a corner after Sticky Web is set up. Latter half can be said more smoothly. Something like "as they can outspeed most unboosted foes and punch holes in the opposing team."
  • Offensive Ghost-types such as Choice Band Dusknoir and Nasty Plot Misdreavus, as well as Defog deterrents such as Purugly and Pawniard can dissuade the opposition from using Rapid Spin or Defog.
  • Preventing the removal of Sticky Web isn't just retroactive I get what you mean, but this is worded in a sort of awkward way. Pokemon such as Silvally-Fighting, Abomasnow, and Electivire can check and apply offensive pressure to common entry hazard removers such as Komala, Altaria, and Silvally-Water to dissuade them from losing even more momentum help keep hazards on the field.
  • Offensive Flying-types and Levitate users such as Swanna, Ninjask, and Misdreavus are not affected by Sticky Web and therefore are harder to take down due to the frailty of Shuckle's offensive teammates revenge kill. Blanket Checks to some of these Pokemon such as Choice Scarf Electivire and Swords Dance Silvally-Dark respectively (b/c Silv-Dark doesn't check Ninjask and is outsped by Swanna) make great teammates.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
  • A Defensive EV spread could be utilized over a Specially Defensive one, as it takes advantage of Shuckle's notable resistances to Normal- and Poison-types such as Komala, Bouffalant, and Muk. However, Shuckle is better off utilizing a specially defensive spread, as Shuckle will already still lose to Pokemon such as Swords Dance + Stone Edge Pinsir and Rampardos.
  • Contrary can give Shuckle an Evasion boost whenever Defog is used directly against it. However, Sturdy nearly guarantees Shuckle that it will lay Sticky Web down against extremely threatening wallbreakers such as Sheer Force Rampardos.
  • Contrary can also be utilized alongside Shell Smash to make Shuckle a defensive behemoth. However, Shuckle's bulk is already sufficient, it isn't very usable alongside Sticky Web due to restricted moveslots, it's extremely susceptible to critical hits, it's even more susceptible to Taunt and Encore, and it additionally cannot defeat most defensive cores due to its greater reliance on Toxic. Can be slimmed down. Can say something like "A set of Shell Smash, Rest, Infestation, and Toxic alongside Contrary allows Shuckle to more easily stall out foes, but is extremely passive, is even more vulnerable to Taunt and Encore, and forgoes hazard setting options."
  • In the same vein, Acupressure boosts not only its defensive stats but also its Attack and Evasion. However, Shuckle getting the actual boosts it wants is even less reliable than Contrary + Shell Smash, as Shuckle doesn't necessarily care if it gets an unnecessary boost in Special Attack, Speed, or Accuracy. Acupressure Shuckle also takes longer to initially get the ball rolling compared to Contrary + Shell Smash.
Would remove the last point completely and mention Leftovers as like a second point.

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

**Super Effective Wallbreakers**: Wallbreakers such as Choice Specs Floatzel, Nasty Plot Simipour, and Rampardos can 2HKO Shuckle with their super effective STAB attacks.

**Taunt, Encore, and Substitute users**: Although Shuckle's Mental Herb can nullify Taunt and Encore once, users such as Vigoroth, Grumpig, and Volbeat can Taunt or Encore Shuckle again to prevent it from utilizing its other support moves, and if running Toxic, any of its moves in general. Additionally, Substitute users such as Regigigas, Bouffalant, and Alolan Dugtrio can shield themselves from status and take nearly zero from either Infestation or Knock Off; however, they but must be wary of being locked into Substitute, as Encore can generate free turns for Shuckle to switch out and let an offensive teammate set up.

**Hazard Removal**: Defog and Rapid Spin users such as Silvally-Water, Silvally-Fighting, Altaria, and Komala can all easily switch into Shuckle and remove Sticky Web, and to a lesser extent Stealth Rock, from play. Furthermore, it should be noted the former two don't mind Knock Off as their specific Memories cannot be removed, while the latter two don't mind Toxic due to Natural Cure and Comatose, respectively. Latter half can be slimmed down

**Being Worn Down Residual Damage**: Shuckle is extremely prone to being worn down over time due to its lack of reliable and passive recovery options, susceptibility to Stealth Rock among other entry hazards, and having common type weaknesses such as Water and Rock.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Aaronboyer, 239454]]
- Quality checked by: [[, ], [, ], [, ]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]
Click to expand...
 
First line of moves isn't needed since it's basically stated in the overview. Would also mention how shuckle can act as a normal resist/check things for HO in usage tips. First line of team options seems out of place; more suited to usage tips. Personally would remove the part of Ghost-types in team options since the most common spinners pack knock off and don't really care for them off the switch.

Looks good otherwise. QC 1/3 when implemented
 
Overview
  • Mention that Shuckle's main competition, Smeargle, can threaten Defoggers with Spore. You can do this in the same line where you talk about Leavanny and Masquerain's offensive pressure.
  • Shuckle's ability to set up Webs multiple times due to its insane bulk needs to be highlighted. I know 5gen sort of removed this, but you need to explain that its bulk and longevity allow it to get multiple chances to set Webs.
  • Mention that as opposed to all the other Webs setters, Shuckle can afford to run Mental Herb instead of Focus Sash due to Sturdy. You kind of say this but it's not really clear.
Team Options
  • Specifically mention how much those wallbreakers appreciate Webs and why (they now outspeed Scarfers/things like Floatzel/EVire)
  • Not sure how I feel about the Missy mention but fine ig
Other Options
  • Remove Contrary on non-Smash sets. It's really not worth using for just Defog lol
Checks and Counters
  • Mention Floatzel as a Taunt user instead of Grumpig. As sad as it is, no one has used Pig in 3 months.
Well done, QC 2/3
hzEBduU.gif
 
Aaronboyer said:
[OVERVIEW]
Shuckle is ZU’s most reliable Sticky Web setter, nearly guaranteeing its setup due to the combination of Sturdy + Mental Herb. Shuckle's outstanding bulk also differentiates it from other Sticky Web setters such as Smeargle, Leavanny, and Masquerain with its fantastic bulk and longevity, as well as having access to Stealth Rock and Encore, potentially allowing Shuckle to set up Sticky Web more than once per game. Shuckle has several additional utility moves such as Infestation and Knock Off that can circumvent Shuckle's passivity to some degree and provide extra team support. Sturdy also gives Shuckle a built-in Focus Sash, allowing it to viably running a different item such as Mental Herb instead. However, Shuckle's passivity is still its primary issue due to its pathetic attacking stats and, allowing it to easily be overwhelmed and worn down by super effective attacks. Shuckle's passiveness also invites entry hazard removers, whereas Leavanny and Masquerain can actually scare off Pokemon such as Silvally-Water and Altaria, respectively due to their offensive presence. Smeargle also has access to Spore, which can incapacitate the aforementioned Defog users without needing to predict like Shuckle does with Encore. Shuckle is also very one-dimensional, only really fitting on Sticky Web hyper offense teams. Lastly, Shuckle is reliant on passive damage such as Infestation and Toxic to hurt foes, which further invites Pokemon such as Altaria and Komala to come in and remove entry hazards. Nevertheless, Shuckle's defensive attributes distinguish itself from its Sticky Web brethren and allow itself to shape the archetype.

Mention how other sticky web setters are much faster than Shuckle.

[SET]
name: Sticky Web
move 1: Sticky Web
move 2: Stealth Rock
move 3: Encore
move 4: Infestation / Toxic / Knock Off
item: Mental Herb
ability: Sturdy
nature: Calm / Careful
evs: 248 HP / 8 Def / 252 SpD
ivs: 0 Atk

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Encore can lock Shuckle's foes into setup and weak-attacking moves, generating free turns for Shuckle's teammates to switch in, take advantage of, or at the very least force switches. Infestation prevents the foe from switching and has no type-immunities, working well in tandem with Encore by guaranteeing free turns for Shuckle's teammates. Toxic is another option and nails Pokemon such as Gourgeist-XL and Silvally-Water. This option in particular makes Shuckle susceptible to Taunt after its Mental Herb has been used up. Knock Off is yet a third option for Shuckle's last moveslot that isn't able to be Taunted and has the added benefit of removing items such as Electivire's Choice Scarf and Altaria's Leftovers.

Set Details
========
A Calm nature should be utilized with Infestation or Toxic along with 0 Attack IVs. A Careful nature should be utilized with Knock Off along with 31 Attack IVs. Mental Herb nullifies the effects of Taunt and Encore from users such as Floatzel and Volbeat once, guaranteeing Sticky Web's setup. Sturdy is Shuckle's only worthwhile ability, allowing it to survive hits such as Sheer Force Rampardos's Rock Slide, ensuring Sticky Web will be set up.

Usage Tips
========
Sticky Web is the primary reason for running Shuckle, so setting Sticky Web should be its priority against most standard balance and offensive teams. In certain, niche team matchups such as playing against Trick Room and Stall, moves such as Encore and Knock Off should take precedence, as Sticky Web doesn't really come into effect in these matchups and Shuckle's utility moves have even greater importance locking foes into ineffective moves or removing items. Despite Shuckle being a dedicated Sticky Web lead, its bulk typically allows it to be able to set up entry hazards again later in the game. If Shuckle is at low health where it cannot be preserved, letting it faint allows for an offensive teammate to switch in freely without fear of taking a massive hit. Early- to mid-game after Sticky Web has been set, Shuckle can act as a Normal-resist and blanket check for special attackers so that its frail teammates don't have to take unnecessary hits. If a Defog user switches in and you predict them to try and remove Shuckle's Sticky Web and Stealth Rock, switch Shuckle out into a Defiant- or Competitive-user such as Purugly, Pawniard, and Meowstic-F. Similarly, if a Rapid Spin user such as Komala comes into remove entry hazards, switch directly into your Ghost-type.

Pawniard is the better defog detterent in the current meta so mention that first. This applies to the other times you mention Pawniard and Purugly throughout the analysis.

Team Options
========
Wallbreakers such as Simipour, Raticate, Rampardos, and Pinsir are mandatory to utilize alongside Shuckle, as they can outspeed most unboosted foes and punch holes in the opposing team. Notably, they are able to outspeed foes such as Choice Scarf Electivire and Floatzel they weren't able to outspeed before. Defog deterrents such as Purugly and Pawniard can dissuade the opposition from using Defog, keeping Sticky Web on the field. Pokemon such as Silvally-Fighting, Abomasnow, and Electivire can check and apply offensive pressure to common entry hazard removers such as Komala, Altaria, and Silvally-Water to help keep entry hazards on the field. Offensive Flying-types and Levitate users such as Swanna, Ninjask, and Misdreavus are not affected by Sticky Web and therefore are harder to revenge kill. Checks to some of these Pokemon such as Choice Scarf Electivire and Swords Dance Silvally-Dark respectively make great teammates.


[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
A Defensive EV spread could be utilized over a Specially Defensive one, as it takes advantage of Shuckle's notable resistances to Normal- and Poison-types such as Komala, Bouffalant, and Muk. However, Shuckle is better off utilizing a specially defensive spread, as Shuckle will still lose to Pokemon such as Swords Dance + Stone Edge Pinsir and Rampardos. Leftovers could be utilized over Mental Herb to give Shuckle access to passive recovery. However, Shuckle's susceptibility to Taunt and Encore wouldn't make it worthwhile, as setting Sticky Web should be its focus, not longevity necessarily. A set of Shell Smash, Rest, Infestation, and Toxic alongside Contrary allows Shuckle to more easily stall out foes, but is extremely passive, is even more vulnerable to Taunt and Encore, and forgoes hazard setting options.

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

**Wallbreakers**: Wallbreakers such as Choice Specs Floatzel, Nasty Plot Simipour, and Rampardos can 2HKO Shuckle with their super effective STAB attacks.

**Taunt, Encore, and Substitute users**: Although Shuckle's Mental Herb can nullify Taunt and Encore once, users such as Vigoroth, Floatzel, and Volbeat can Taunt or Encore Shuckle again to prevent it from utilizing its other support moves. Additionally, Substitute users such as Regigigas and Bouffalant can shield themselves from status but must be wary of being locked into Substitute, as Encore can generate free turns for Shuckle to switch out and let an offensive teammate set up.

**Hazard Removal**: Defog and Rapid Spin users such as Silvally-Water, Silvally-Fighting, Altaria, and Komala can all easily switch into Shuckle and remove Sticky Web and to a lesser extent Stealth Rock. Furthermore, the former two don't mind Knock Off as their specific Memories cannot be removed, while the latter two don't mind Toxic due to Natural Cure and Comatose, respectively.

**Residual Damage**: Shuckle is extremely prone to being worn down over time due to its lack of reliable and passive recovery options, susceptibility to Stealth Rock among other entry hazards, and having common weaknesses such as Water and Rock.

I'll leave this up to you but I feel like Golem should be mentioned here somewhere since it is one of the most common leads and threatens to 2HKO Shuckle.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Aaronboyer, 239454]]
- Quality checked by: [[5gen, 296755], [Xayah, 167012], [, ]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]
Click to expand...

QC 3/3

bloodace0107-qc-gif.150187
 
remove add / fix (comments); (AC=add comma; RC=remove comma; SC=semicolon)
GP 1/2
[OVERVIEW]
Shuckle is ZU’s Zu's most reliable Sticky Web setter, nearly guaranteeing its setup due to the combination of Sturdy + Mental Herb. Shuckle's outstanding bulk It (repeated) also differentiates itself from other Sticky Web setters such as Smeargle, Leavanny, and Masquerain with its fantastic bulk and longevity, as well as having access to Stealth Rock and Encore, potentially allowing Shuckle it to set up Sticky Web more than once per game. as well as access to Stealth Rock and Encore. Shuckle has several additional utility moves such as Infestation and Knock Off that can circumvent Shuckle's it passivity to some degree and provide extra team support. Sturdy also gives Shuckle a built-in Focus Sash, allowing it to viably running a different item such as Mental Herb instead. (repeated from first sentence) However, Shuckle's passivity is still its primary issue due to its pathetic attacking stats, allowing it to easily be overwhelmed and worn down by super effective attacks. Shuckle's passiveness also invites entry hazard removers, whereas Leavanny and Masquerain can actually scare off Pokemon such as Silvally-Water and Altaria, respectively, (AC) due to their offensive presence and higher Speed. Smeargle also has access to Spore, which can incapacitate the aforementioned Defog users without needing to predict like Shuckle does with Encore. Shuckle is also very one-dimensional, only really fitting on Sticky Web hyper offense teams. Lastly, Shuckle is reliant on passive damage such as Infestation and Toxic to hurt foes, which further invites Pokemon such as Altaria and Komala to come in and remove entry hazards. Nevertheless, Shuckle's defensive attributes distinguish itself from its Sticky Web brethren and allow itself to shape the archetype.

[SET]
name: Sticky Web
move 1: Sticky Web
move 2: Stealth Rock
move 3: Encore
move 4: Infestation / Toxic / Knock Off
item: Mental Herb
ability: Sturdy
nature: Calm / Careful
evs: 248 HP / 8 Def / 252 SpD
ivs: 0 Atk

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Encore can lock Shuckle's foes into setup moves and weak-attacking moves weak attacks, generating free turns for Shuckle's teammates to switch in (RC) and take advantage of (RC) them or at the very least force switches. Infestation prevents the foe from switching, (AC) and has no type-immunities nothing is immune to it, working well in tandem with Encore by guaranteeing free turns for Shuckle's teammates. Toxic is another option and nails Pokemon such as Gourgeist-XL and Silvally-Water. This option in particular makes Shuckle susceptible to Taunt after its Mental Herb has been used up, however. Knock Off is yet a third option for Shuckle's last moveslot that isn't able to be Taunted prevents it from being Taunt bait and has the added benefit of removing items such as Electivire's Choice Scarf and Altaria's Leftovers.

Set Details
========
A Calm nature should be utilized with Infestation or Toxic along with 0 Attack IVs. A Careful nature should be utilized with Knock Off along with 31 Attack IVs. Mental Herb nullifies the effects of Taunt and Encore from users such as Floatzel and Volbeat once, guaranteeing Sticky Web's setup. Sturdy is Shuckle's only worthwhile ability, allowing it to survive hits such as Sheer Force Rampardos's Rock Slide, ensuring Sticky Web will be set up.

Usage Tips
========
Sticky Web is the primary reason for running Shuckle, so setting Sticky Web it up should be its priority against most standard balance and offensive teams. In certain, niche team matchups such as playing against Trick Room and stall, moves such as Encore and Knock Off should take precedence, as Sticky Web doesn't really come into effect in these matchups and Shuckle's utility moves have even greater importance locking foes into ineffective moves or removing items. Despite Shuckle being a dedicated Sticky Web lead, its bulk typically allows it to be able to set up entry hazards again later in the game. If Shuckle is at low health where it cannot be preserved, letting it faint allows for an offensive teammate to switch in freely without fear of taking a massive hit. Early- to mid-game after Sticky Web has been set, Shuckle can act as a Normal-resist Normal-type answer and blanket check for special attackers so that its frail teammates don't have to take unnecessary hits. If a Defog user switches in and you predict them to try and remove removing Shuckle's Sticky Web and Stealth Rock, switch Shuckle out into to a Defiant (RH) or Competitive user (RH) such as Pawniard, Purugly, and Meowstic-F. Similarly, if a Rapid Spin user such as Komala comes into remove entry hazards, switch directly into to your Ghost-type.

Team Options
========
Wallbreakers such as Simipour, Raticate, Rampardos, and Pinsir are mandatory to utilize alongside Shuckle, as they can outspeed most unboosted foes and punch holes in the opposing team. Notably, they are able to outspeed foes such as Choice Scarf Electivire and Floatzel they weren't able to outspeed before. Defog deterrents such as Pawniard and Purugly can dissuade the opposition from using Defog, keeping help keep Sticky Web on the field. Pokemon such as Silvally-Fighting, Abomasnow, and Electivire can check and apply offensive pressure to common entry hazard removers such as Komala, Altaria, and Silvally-Water to help keep entry hazards on the field. Offensive Flying-types and Levitate users such as Swanna, Ninjask, and Misdreavus are not affected by Sticky Web and therefore are harder to revenge kill. Checks to some of these Pokemon such as Choice Scarf Electivire for Swanna and Ninjask and Swords Dance Silvally-Dark respectively for Misdreavus make great teammates.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
A defensive EV spread could be utilized over a specially defensive one, as it takes advantage of Shuckle's notable resistances to Normal- and Poison-types such as Komala, Bouffalant, and Muk. However, Shuckle is better off utilizing a specially defensive spread, as Shuckle will still lose to Pokemon such as Swords Dance + Stone Edge Pinsir and Rampardos. Leftovers could be utilized over Mental Herb to give Shuckle access to passive recovery. However, Shuckle's susceptibility to Taunt and Encore wouldn't make it worthwhile, as setting Sticky Web should be its focus, not longevity necessarily. A set of Shell Smash, Rest, Infestation, and Toxic alongside Contrary allows Shuckle to more easily stall out foes, but it is extremely passive, is even more vulnerable to Taunt and Encore, and forgoes hazard setting options.

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

**Wallbreakers**: Wallbreakers such as Choice Specs Floatzel, Nasty Plot Simipour, Golem, and Rampardos can 2HKO Shuckle with their super effective STAB attacks.

**Taunt, Encore, and Substitute Users**: Although Shuckle's Mental Herb can nullify Taunt and Encore once, users such as Vigoroth, Floatzel, and Volbeat can Taunt or Encore Shuckle again to prevent it from utilizing its other support moves. Additionally, Substitute users such as Regigigas and Bouffalant can shield themselves from status but must be wary of being locked into Substitute, as Encore can generate free turns for Shuckle to switch out and let an offensive teammate set up.

**Entry Hazard Removal**: Defog and Rapid Spin users such as Silvally-Water, Silvally-Fighting, Altaria, and Komala can all easily switch into Shuckle and remove Sticky Web and to a lesser extent Stealth Rock. Furthermore, the former two don't mind Knock Off as their specific Memories cannot be removed, while the latter two don't mind Toxic due to Natural Cure and Comatose, respectively their abilities.

**Residual Damage**: Shuckle is extremely prone to being worn down over time due to its lack of reliable and passive recovery options, susceptibility to Stealth Rock among other entry hazards, and having common weaknesses such as Water and Rock.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Aaronboyer, 239454]]
- Quality checked by: [[5gen, 296755], [Xayah, 167012], [BloodAce0107, 435539]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]
 
GP 2/2
[OVERVIEW]
Shuckle is ZU's most reliable Sticky Web setter, nearly guaranteeing its setup due to the combination of Sturdy + Mental Herb. It also differentiates itself from other Sticky Web setters such as Smeargle, Leavanny, and Masquerain with its fantastic bulk and longevity, potentially allowing it to set up Sticky Web more than once per game, as well as access to Stealth Rock and Encore. Shuckle has several additional utility moves such as Infestation and Knock Off that can circumvent its passivity to some degree and provide extra team support. However, Shuckle's passivity is still its primary issue due to its pathetic attacking stats, allowing it to easily be overwhelmed and worn down by super effective attacks. Shuckle's passiveness also invites entry hazard removers, whereas Leavanny and Masquerain can actually scare off Pokemon such as Silvally-Water and Altaria, respectively, due to their offensive presence and higher Speed. Smeargle also has access to Spore, which can incapacitate the aforementioned Defog users without needing to predict like Shuckle does with Encore. Shuckle is also very one-dimensional, only really fitting on Sticky Web hyper offense teams. Lastly, Shuckle is reliant on passive damage such as Infestation and Toxic to hurt foes, which further invites Pokemon such as Altaria and Komala to come in and remove entry hazards. Nevertheless, Shuckle's defensive attributes distinguish itself from its Sticky Web brethren and allow itself to shape the archetype. (conclusion-esque sentences are still not good and you've already said everything in that sentence earlier)

[SET]
name: Sticky Web
move 1: Sticky Web
move 2: Stealth Rock
move 3: Encore
move 4: Infestation / Toxic / Knock Off
item: Mental Herb
ability: Sturdy
nature: Calm / Careful
evs: 248 HP / 8 Def / 252 SpD
ivs: 0 Atk

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Encore can lock Shuckle's foes into setup moves and weak attacks, generating free turns for Shuckle's teammates to switch in and take advantage of them or at the very least force switches. Infestation prevents the foe from switching, and nothing is immune to it, working well in tandem with Encore by guaranteeing free turns for Shuckle's teammates. Toxic is another option and nails Pokemon such as Gourgeist-XL and Silvally-Water. This option in particular makes Shuckle susceptible to Taunt after its Mental Herb has been used up, however. Knock Off is yet a third option for Shuckle's last moveslot that prevents it from being Taunt bait and has the added benefit of removing items such as Electivire's Choice Scarf and Altaria's Leftovers.

Set Details
========
A Calm nature should be utilized with Infestation or Toxic along with 0 Attack IVs. A Careful nature should be utilized with Knock Off along with 31 Attack IVs. Mental Herb nullifies the effects of Taunt and Encore from users such as Floatzel and Volbeat once, guaranteeing Sticky Web's setup. Sturdy is Shuckle's only worthwhile ability, allowing it to survive hits such as Sheer Force Rampardos's Rock Slide, ensuring Sticky Web will be set up.

Usage Tips
========
Sticky Web is the primary reason for running Shuckle, so setting it up should be its priority against most standard balance and offensive teams. In certain,particular, in niche team matchups such as against Trick Room and stall, moves such as Encore and Knock Off should take precedence, as Sticky Web doesn't really come into effect in these matchups and Shuckle's utility moves have even greater importance through locking foes into ineffective moves or removing items. Despite Shuckle being a dedicated Sticky Web lead, its bulk typically allows it to set up entry hazards again later in the game. If Shuckle is at low health, (AC) where it cannot be preserved, letting it faint allows an offensive teammate to switch in freely without fear of taking a massive hit. Early- to mid-game after Sticky Web has been set, Shuckle can act as a Normal-type answer and blanket check for special attackers so that its frail teammates don't have to take unnecessary hits. If a Defog user switches in and you predict them to try removing Shuckle's Sticky Web and Stealth Rock, switch Shuckle out to a Defiant or Competitive user such as Pawniard, Purugly, andor Meowstic-F. Similarly, if a Rapid Spin user such as Komala comes into remove entry hazards, switch directly to your Ghost-type.

Team Options
========
Wallbreakers such as Simipour, Raticate, Rampardos, and Pinsir are mandatory to utilize alongside Shuckle, as they can outspeed most unboosted foes and punch holes in the opposing team. Notably, they are able to outspeed foes such as Choice Scarf Electivire and Floatzel they weren't able to outspeed before. Defog deterrents such as Pawniard and Purugly can help keep Sticky Web on the field. Pokemon such as Silvally-Fighting, Abomasnow, and Electivire can check and apply offensive pressure to common entry hazard removers such as Komala, Altaria, and Silvally-Water to help keep entry hazards on the field. Offensive Flying-types and Levitate users such as Swanna, Ninjask, and Misdreavus are not affected by Sticky Web and therefore are harder to revenge kill. Checks to some of these Pokemon such as Choice Scarf Electivire for Swanna and Ninjask and Swords Dance Silvally-Dark for Misdreavus make great teammates.
(Spinblockers? You said "switch out to your ghost-type" in UT, implying you definitely have one)

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
A physically defensive EV spread could be utilized over a specially defensive one, as ito takes advantage of Shuckle's notable resistances to Normal- and Poison-types such as Komala, Bouffalant, and Muk. However, Shuckle is better off utilizing a specially defensive spread, as Shuckle will still lose to Pokemon such as Swords Dance + Stone Edge Pinsir and Rampardos. Leftovers could be utilized over Mental Herb to give Shuckle access to passive recovery. However, Shuckle's susceptibility to Taunt and Encore wouldn't make it worthwhile, as setting Sticky Web should be its focus, not longevity necessarily. A set of Shell Smash, Rest, Infestation, and Toxic alongside Contrary allows Shuckle to more easily stall out foes, but it is extremely passive, is even more vulnerable to Taunt and Encore, and forgoes hazard setting options.

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

**Wallbreakers**: Wallbreakers such as Choice Specs Floatzel, Nasty Plot Simipour, Golem, and Rampardos can 2HKO Shuckle with their super effective STAB attacks.

**Taunt, Encore, and Substitute Users**: Although Shuckle's Mental Herb can nullify Taunt and Encore once, users such as Vigoroth, Floatzel, and Volbeat can Taunt or Encore Shuckle again to prevent it from utilizing its other support moves. Additionally, Substitute users such as Regigigas and Bouffalant can shield themselves from status but must be wary of being locked into Substitute, as Encore can generate free turns for Shuckle to switch out and let an offensive teammate set up.

**Entry Hazard Removal**: Defog and Rapid Spin users such as Silvally-Water, Silvally-Fighting, Altaria, and Komala can all easily switch into Shuckle and remove Sticky Web and, (AC) to a lesser extent, (AC) Stealth Rock. Furthermore, the former two don't mind Knock Off, (AC) as their specific Memories cannot be removed, while the latter two don't mind Toxic due to their abilities.

**Residual Damage**: Shuckle is extremely prone to being worn down over time due to its lack of reliable and passive recovery options, susceptibility to Stealth Rock among other entry hazards, and having common weaknesses such as Water and Rock.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Aaronboyer, 239454]]
- Quality checked by: [[5gen, 296755], [Xayah, 167012], [BloodAce0107, 435539]]
- Grammar checked by: [[The Dutch Plumberjack, 232216], [lotiasite, 302985]
 
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