OU Skarmory (revamp) (qc 3/3) (gp 2/2)

[DKM]

[OVERVIEW]

Thanks to a high Defense stat and great defensive typing, Skarmory is a good check to several physical attackers including Garchomp, Kartana, Tapu Bulu, Landorus-T, and Mega Scizor due to its access to Whirlwind and Toxic. Skarmory also has access to Spikes, which it can set up mutiple times throughout a battle. For these reasons, Skarmory is a decent pick on stall and balance teams. However, Skarmory's low HP and Special Defense stats mean it struggles to take even resisted hits from special attackers like Tapu Lele and Mega Alakazam, leaving it outclassed by Celesteela in this regard. Skarmory is also very passive, relying on Toxic to deal damage unless it is running Counter or Brave Bird. This leaves it completely useless against Taunt users like Tornadus-T and Tapu Fini. Despite its high Defense stat, physical attackers such as Swords Dance Kartana and Garchomp can potentially overwhelm Skarmory with Z-Moves if they have already set up.

[SET]
name: Physically Defensive
move 1: Roost
move 2: Spikes
move 3: Whirlwind
move 4: Toxic
item: Rocky Helmet
ability: Sturdy
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD

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

Spikes is used to wear down the opposing team, especially in combination with Whirlwind. This is useful on the stall and balance teams that Skarmory is found on. Whirlwind allows Skarmory to phaze setup sweepers like Garchomp, Tapu Bulu, and Mega Scizor. Similarly, this move can prevent Substitute users like Serperior and Kyurem or bulky Calm Mind users like Mega Latias and Reuniclus from using Skarmory as setup fodder. Toxic is used to cripple Pokemon, especially setup sweepers like Tapu Bulu and Garchomp, wearing them down and easing Skarmory's matchup against them. It also punishes Defog users such as Tornadus-T, Rotom-W, and Zapdos that switch in to remove Skarmory's Spikes. Counter can be used to handle physical attackers that Skarmory checks such as Kartana and Mega Tyranitar. However, it's somewhat unreliable, especially against Pokemon with setup moves, so it struggles to fit onto Skarmory's moveset. Brave Bird deals immediate damage to foes without having to rely on Toxic or Counter, although it's hard to justify over Skarmory's other moves. It hits Grass-types like Tapu Bulu and Tangrowth for decent damage, and OHKOes Fighting-types like Mega Medicham and Mega Heracross that are usually troublesome for defensive teams.

Set Details
========

Skarmory's HP and Defense stats are maximized, as it has little hope of dealing with special attackers regardless. The investment is needed to take boosted Z-Moves like Continental Crush from Garchomp and All-Out Pummeling from Kartana. Rocky Helmet punishes contact moves from Pokemon such as Kartana, Tapu Bulu, and Mega Scizor, as well as U-turn from the likes of Landorus-T and Jirachi. Shed Shell can be used to prevent Magnezone from trapping Skarmory. Sturdy allows Skarmory to take one hit from full HP in order to use Whirlwind or Counter against a foe in a pinch. An Impish nature should be used alongside Brave Bird to avoid weakening it.

Usage Tips
========

Skarmory can be switched into physical attackers that it checks, and its health should be maintained by using Roost often so that it can take attacks like Sacred Sword from Choice Band Kartana and +2 Continental Crush from Garchomp. However, Skarmory must be wary of very powerful attacks, as well as super effective coverage moves. A +2 All-Out Pummeling from Kartana and Fire Punch from Mega Tyranitar will OHKO and 2HKO Skarmory, respectively, unless Skarmory is kept near full health. Skarmory must also be careful when switching into Garchomp before its set is revealed, as it could turn out to be a Mega Garchomp with Fire Blast. Avoid switching Skarmory into special attackers, as even resisted attacks like Psychic from Tapu Lele as well as neutral attacks like Ice Beam from Mega Latias will overwhelm it. Spikes is best used against Pokemon that can't deal much damage to Skarmory such as Mega Scizor and Gliscor, as well as Choice-locked Kartana and Landorus-T. If Skarmory is lacking a Shed Shell, it should be wary of using Spikes or Toxic if the opponent has a Magnezone and should instead double switch or use Whirlwind. If Stealth Rock is off the field and Skarmory is at full HP, it can utilize Sturdy along with Whirlwind or Counter to act as an emergency check to Pokemon such as +2 Mega Mawile or Mega Heracross, which could otherwise OHKO it with Thunder Punch and Close Combat, respectively.

Team Options
========

Skarmory fits best on stall and balance teams that appreciate a blanket check to physical attackers and Spikes support. Chansey is one of the best partners that fits on stall; it acts as a blanket check to special attackers that Skarmory can't deal with such as Ash-Greninja and Mega Alakazam. It can also set up Stealth Rock, forming an entry hazard stacking core with Skarmory to wear down the opposing team. Pokemon with Unaware like Clefable and Quagsire help against setup sweepers that Skarmory can't deal with. The former takes on Mega Heracross and Serperior, while the latter can deal with Mega Charizard X and stop Electric-types. Gliscor and Hippowdon are Stealth Rock setters that pair well with Skarmory. The former checks Heatran, while the later deals with physical attackers such as Mega Mawile and Mega Charizard X that Skarmory fails to check. Both of these also prevent Electric-types from spamming Volt Switch. Pokemon that can deal with Fire-types, such as Mega Latias, Gliscor, and Toxapex, help against Heatran and Volcarona, which switch into Skarmory for free. Bulky Grass-types like Tangrowth and Amoonguss can reliably check Electric-types like Tapu Koko and Rotom-W. Gastrodon is an interesting partner that completely stops these Electric-types while also dealing with other special attackers like Heatran and Ash-Greninja.

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

Defog can be used if Skarmory's team needs a form of hazard removal. Although Skarmory has a favorable matchup against entry hazard setters like Garchomp and Ferrothorn, it fails to force them out and keep hazards off reliably. Poor matchups against other hazard setters like Heatran and Greninja also make it an unreliable Defogger. Iron Defense can be used alongside 96 Speed EVs in order to outspeed and beat Swords Dance Mega Mawile one-on-one while also easing prediction against the likes of Swords Dance Garchomp. However, it has no other use and is hard to fit onto Skarmory's set. Stealth Rock is an alternative if Skarmory's team is lacking it. However, one of the main reasons for using Skarmory is for its access to Spikes, and there are also better Stealth Rock setters that can fit on stall and balance teams.

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

**Electric-types**: Tapu Koko, Rotom-W, and Zapdos all force out Skarmory with their super effective STAB attacks. They can also use Defog to remove Spikes that Skarmory sets. Magnezone is especially problematic, as it can trap Skarmory if it isn't holding a Shed Shell.

**Fire-types**: Heatran, Volcarona, and Mega Charizard X can all take advantage of Skarmory. The former can set up Stealth Rock or throw out a powerful Magma Storm, while the latter two can use it as setup fodder. However, Volcarona must be wary when setting up against variants with Brave Bird.

**Special Attackers**: Special attackers such as Greninja, Magearna, Kyurem, and Hydreigon have little trouble getting past Skarmory due to its low special bulk. Pokemon like Mega Alakazam and Tapu Lele also overwhelm Skarmory with very strong STAB attacks or neutral coverage moves like Focus Blast.

**Taunt**: Tornadus-T and Tapu Fini can shut down Skarmory with Taunt, leaving it unable to set up Spikes. The former can use Roost to stay healthy, or use Whirlwind to phaze them.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[DKM, 402001]]
- Quality checked by: [[GMars, 273636], [Leo, 328915], [Jordy, 395754]]
- Grammar checked by: [[martha, 384270], [NixHex, 40064]]

 

[DKM]

Ready for qc

 

[GMars]

check

[OVERVIEW]

• Thanks to a high Defense stat and decent typing, Skarmory is a good check to a bunch of physical attackers including Garchomp, Kartana, Tapu Bulu, and Mega Scizor. Between Whirlwind and Toxic, it can deal with these Pokemon as they try to set up or attack.
• Skarmory also has access to Spikes, which it can set up mutiple times throughout a battle. For these reasons, Skarmory is a decent pick on Stall and balance teams.
• However, Skarmory’s low HP and Special Defense stats mean it struggles to take even resisted hits from special attackers like Tapu Lele and Mega Alakazam, leaving it outclassed by Celesteela in this regard.
• Skarmory is also very passive, relying on Toxic to deal damage unless it is running Counter or Brave Bird. This leaves it completely useless against Taunt users like Tornadus-T and Tapu Fini.
• Add in that Skarmory can sometimes fail to handle Pokemon it's meant to check - i.e. Swords Dance Kartana can cripple or overcome skarm with an All-Out Pummeling

[SET]
name: Physically Defensive
move 1: Roost
move 2: Spikes
move 3: Whirlwind
move 4: Toxic
item: Rocky Helmet
ability: Sturdy
nature: Bold
evs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD

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

• Spikes is used to wear down the opposing team, especially in combination with Whirlwind. This is useful on the stall and balance teams Skarmory is found on.
• Whirlwind allows Skarmory to phaze Pokemon like Garchomp, Tapu Bulu, and Mega Scizor that could otherwise keep setting up and overwhelm it. Similary, this move can prevent Substitute users like Serperior and Kyurem, or bulky Calm Mind users like Mega Latias and Reuniclus from using Skarmory as setup fodder.
• Toxic is used to cripple Pokemon, especially set up sweepers like Tapu Bulu and Garchomp, wearing them down and easing Skarmory's time against them. It also punishes Defog users such as Tornadus-T and Zapdos that switch in to remove Skarmory's Spikes.
• Counter can be used to handle the physical attackers that Skarmory checks, although it has to be used correctly in tandem with Whirlwind to take on Pokemon with set up moves. Focus more on what specific threats your team would have to be weak to in order to justify running Counter, like you do with Brave Bird.
• Brave Bird deals immediate damage without having to rely on Counter. It hits Grass-types like Tapu Bulu and Tangrowth for decent damage, and OHKOes Fighting-types like Mega Medicham and Mega Heracross that are usually troublesome for defensive teams.

Set Details
========

• HP and Defense stats are maximized as Skarmory has little hope of dealing with special attackers regardless. The investment is needed to take boosted Z-moves like Continental Crush from Garchomp and All Out Pummelling from Kartana.
• Rocky Helmet punishes contact moves from Pokemon such as Kartana, Tapu Bulu, and Mega Scizor, as well as U-turn from the likes of Landorus-T and Jirachi.
• Shed Shell can be used to prevent Magnezone from trapping Skarmory, improving the matchup against teams with Magnezone + Tapu Bulu or Kartana.
• Sturdy allows Skarmory to live one hit from full HP in order to use Whirlwind or Counter against a foe in a pinch.
• An Impish nature should be used alongside Brave Bird to avoid weakening it.

Usage Tips
========

• Skarmory can be switched into a bunch of physical attackers, its health should be maintained by using Roost often so that it can take attacks like Sacred Sword from Choice Band Kartana and +2 Continential Crush from Garchomp.
• However, Skarmory must be wary of very powerful attacks, as well as super effective coverage moves. +2 All Out Pummelling from Kartana and Fire Punch from Mega Tyranitar will OHKO and 2HKO respectively unless Skarmory is kept near full health.
• Avoid switching Skarmory into special attackers, as even resisted attacks like Psychic from Tapu Lele as well as neutral attacks like Ice Beam from Mega Latias will overwhelm it.
• Spikes is best used against Pokemon that can't deal much damage to Skarmory, such as Ferrothorn, Mega Scizor, and Gliscor, as well as choice-locked Kartana and Landorus-T.
• If Skarmory is lacking a Shed Shell and the opponent has Magnezone, it should be wary of using Spikes or Toxic and should instead double switch or use Whirlwind.
• If Stealth Rock is off the field and Skarmory is at full HP, it can utilize Sturdy along with Whirlwind or Counter to act as an emergency check to Pokemon such as +2 Mega Mawile or Mega Heracross which could otherwise OHKO it with Thunder Punch and Close Combat respectively.

Team Options
========

• Skarmory fits best on stall and balance teams that appreciate a blanket check to physical attackers, as well as Spikes. Chansey is one of the best partners that fits on stall, it acts as a blanket check to special attackers that Skarmory can’t deal with. It can also set up Stealth Rock, forming a hazard stacking core with it to wear down the opposing team.
• Pokemon with Unaware like Clefable and Quagsire help against setup sweepers that Skarmory can’t deal with. The former takes on Mega Heracross and Serperior, while the latter can deal with Mega Charizard X and can also stop Electric-types.
• Stealth Rock setters such as Gliscor and Hippowdown form hazard stacking cores with Skarmory. The former also checks Heatran, while the later deals with physical attackers such as Mega Mawile and Mega Charizard X that Skarmory fails to check. Both of these also prevent Electric-types from spamming Volt Switch. Change the early focus here - every team should have Stealth Rock to pair with Skarmory, so pretty much every team will ultimately have a hazard-stacking core if it's using Skarm (since the main draw of Skarm on a team right now over anything else is getting Spikes imo). Focus on how Gliscor and Hippowdon close the gaps in Skarm's defenses, like letting in Tran for free etc
• Pokemon that can deal with Fire-types, such as Mega Latias, Gliscor, and Toxapex help against Heatran and Volcarona which switch into Skarmory for free.
• Bulky Grass-types like Tangrowth and Amoonguss can reliably check Electric-types including Tapu Koko and Rotom-W. Gastrodon is an interesting partner that completely stops these Electric-types, while also dealing with other special attackers like Heatran and Ash-Greninja.

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

• Defog can be used if Skarmory’s team needs a form of hazard removal. Although it has a favourable matchup against hazard setters like Garchomp and Ferrothorn, it fails to force them out and keep hazards off reliably. A poor matchup against other hazard setters like Heatran and Greninja also make it an unreliable defogger.
• Iron Defense can be used alongside 96 Speed EVs in order to outspeed and beat Swords Dance Mega Mawile one-on-one, while also easing prediction against the likes of Swords Dance Garchomp. However, it has no other use and is hard to fit onto Skarmory’s set.
• Stealth Rock is an alternative if Skarmory’s team is lacking it. However, there are better Stealth Rock setters that can fit on stall and balance teams. Add that a main draw to using Skarm in the first place over its competition is Spikes outside of just being a blanket check
• Consider adding Taunt to OO? Pretty specialized and Skarm's already constrained for moveslots, up to you

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

**Electric-types**: Tapu Koko, Rotom-W and Zapdos all force out Skarmory with their super effective STAB attacks, they can also use Defog to remove Spikes that Skarmory sets. Magnezone is especially problematic, as it can trap Skarmory if it isn't holding a Shed Shell.

**Fire-types**: Heatran, Volcarona, and Mega Charizard X can all take advantage of Skarmory. The former can set up Stealth Rock or throw out a powerful Magma Storm, while the latter two can use it as setup fodder. However, Volcarona must be wary when setting up against variants with Brave Bird.

**Special attackers**: Greninja, Magearna, Kyurem, and Hydreigon, as well as other special attackers have little trouble getting past Skarmory due to its low special bulk. Pokemon like Mega Alakazam and Tapu Lele also overwhelm Skarmory with very strong STAB attacks or neutral coverage moves like Focus Blast

**Taunt**: Tornadus-T and Tapu Fini can shut down Skarmory with Taunt, leaving it unable to set up Spikes, use Roost to stay healthy, or Whirlwind to phaze them.

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

Thanks for waiting, nice work. qc 1/3

 

[DKM]

check

[OVERVIEW]

• Thanks to a high Defense stat and decent typing, Skarmory is a good check to a bunch of physical attackers including Garchomp, Kartana, Tapu Bulu, and Mega Scizor. Between Whirlwind and Toxic, it can deal with these Pokemon as they try to set up or attack.
• Skarmory also has access to Spikes, which it can set up mutiple times throughout a battle. For these reasons, Skarmory is a decent pick on Stall and balance teams.
• However, Skarmory’s low HP and Special Defense stats mean it struggles to take even resisted hits from special attackers like Tapu Lele and Mega Alakazam, leaving it outclassed by Celesteela in this regard.
• Skarmory is also very passive, relying on Toxic to deal damage unless it is running Counter or Brave Bird. This leaves it completely useless against Taunt users like Tornadus-T and Tapu Fini.
• Add in that Skarmory can sometimes fail to handle Pokemon it's meant to check - i.e. Swords Dance Kartana can cripple or overcome skarm with an All-Out Pummeling

[SET]
name: Physically Defensive
move 1: Roost
move 2: Spikes
move 3: Whirlwind
move 4: Toxic
item: Rocky Helmet
ability: Sturdy
nature: Bold
evs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD

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

• Spikes is used to wear down the opposing team, especially in combination with Whirlwind. This is useful on the stall and balance teams Skarmory is found on.
• Whirlwind allows Skarmory to phaze Pokemon like Garchomp, Tapu Bulu, and Mega Scizor that could otherwise keep setting up and overwhelm it. Similary, this move can prevent Substitute users like Serperior and Kyurem, or bulky Calm Mind users like Mega Latias and Reuniclus from using Skarmory as setup fodder.
• Toxic is used to cripple Pokemon, especially set up sweepers like Tapu Bulu and Garchomp, wearing them down and easing Skarmory's time against them. It also punishes Defog users such as Tornadus-T and Zapdos that switch in to remove Skarmory's Spikes.
• Counter can be used to handle the physical attackers that Skarmory checks, although it has to be used correctly in tandem with Whirlwind to take on Pokemon with set up moves. Focus more on what specific threats your team would have to be weak to in order to justify running Counter, like you do with Brave Bird.
• Brave Bird deals immediate damage without having to rely on Counter. It hits Grass-types like Tapu Bulu and Tangrowth for decent damage, and OHKOes Fighting-types like Mega Medicham and Mega Heracross that are usually troublesome for defensive teams.

Set Details
========

• HP and Defense stats are maximized as Skarmory has little hope of dealing with special attackers regardless. The investment is needed to take boosted Z-moves like Continental Crush from Garchomp and All Out Pummelling from Kartana.
• Rocky Helmet punishes contact moves from Pokemon such as Kartana, Tapu Bulu, and Mega Scizor, as well as U-turn from the likes of Landorus-T and Jirachi.
• Shed Shell can be used to prevent Magnezone from trapping Skarmory, improving the matchup against teams with Magnezone + Tapu Bulu or Kartana.
• Sturdy allows Skarmory to live one hit from full HP in order to use Whirlwind or Counter against a foe in a pinch.
• An Impish nature should be used alongside Brave Bird to avoid weakening it.

Usage Tips
========

• Skarmory can be switched into a bunch of physical attackers, its health should be maintained by using Roost often so that it can take attacks like Sacred Sword from Choice Band Kartana and +2 Continential Crush from Garchomp.
• However, Skarmory must be wary of very powerful attacks, as well as super effective coverage moves. +2 All Out Pummelling from Kartana and Fire Punch from Mega Tyranitar will OHKO and 2HKO respectively unless Skarmory is kept near full health.
• Avoid switching Skarmory into special attackers, as even resisted attacks like Psychic from Tapu Lele as well as neutral attacks like Ice Beam from Mega Latias will overwhelm it.
• Spikes is best used against Pokemon that can't deal much damage to Skarmory, such as Ferrothorn, Mega Scizor, and Gliscor, as well as choice-locked Kartana and Landorus-T.
• If Skarmory is lacking a Shed Shell and the opponent has Magnezone, it should be wary of using Spikes or Toxic and should instead double switch or use Whirlwind.
• If Stealth Rock is off the field and Skarmory is at full HP, it can utilize Sturdy along with Whirlwind or Counter to act as an emergency check to Pokemon such as +2 Mega Mawile or Mega Heracross which could otherwise OHKO it with Thunder Punch and Close Combat respectively.

Team Options
========

• Skarmory fits best on stall and balance teams that appreciate a blanket check to physical attackers, as well as Spikes. Chansey is one of the best partners that fits on stall, it acts as a blanket check to special attackers that Skarmory can’t deal with. It can also set up Stealth Rock, forming a hazard stacking core with it to wear down the opposing team.
• Pokemon with Unaware like Clefable and Quagsire help against setup sweepers that Skarmory can’t deal with. The former takes on Mega Heracross and Serperior, while the latter can deal with Mega Charizard X and can also stop Electric-types.
• Stealth Rock setters such as Gliscor and Hippowdown form hazard stacking cores with Skarmory. The former also checks Heatran, while the later deals with physical attackers such as Mega Mawile and Mega Charizard X that Skarmory fails to check. Both of these also prevent Electric-types from spamming Volt Switch. Change the early focus here - every team should have Stealth Rock to pair with Skarmory, so pretty much every team will ultimately have a hazard-stacking core if it's using Skarm (since the main draw of Skarm on a team right now over anything else is getting Spikes imo). Focus on how Gliscor and Hippowdon close the gaps in Skarm's defenses, like letting in Tran for free etc
• Pokemon that can deal with Fire-types, such as Mega Latias, Gliscor, and Toxapex help against Heatran and Volcarona which switch into Skarmory for free.
• Bulky Grass-types like Tangrowth and Amoonguss can reliably check Electric-types including Tapu Koko and Rotom-W. Gastrodon is an interesting partner that completely stops these Electric-types, while also dealing with other special attackers like Heatran and Ash-Greninja.

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

• Defog can be used if Skarmory’s team needs a form of hazard removal. Although it has a favourable matchup against hazard setters like Garchomp and Ferrothorn, it fails to force them out and keep hazards off reliably. A poor matchup against other hazard setters like Heatran and Greninja also make it an unreliable defogger.
• Iron Defense can be used alongside 96 Speed EVs in order to outspeed and beat Swords Dance Mega Mawile one-on-one, while also easing prediction against the likes of Swords Dance Garchomp. However, it has no other use and is hard to fit onto Skarmory’s set.
• Stealth Rock is an alternative if Skarmory’s team is lacking it. However, there are better Stealth Rock setters that can fit on stall and balance teams. Add that a main draw to using Skarm in the first place over its competition is Spikes outside of just being a blanket check
• Consider adding Taunt to OO? Pretty specialized and Skarm's already constrained for moveslots, up to you

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

**Electric-types**: Tapu Koko, Rotom-W and Zapdos all force out Skarmory with their super effective STAB attacks, they can also use Defog to remove Spikes that Skarmory sets. Magnezone is especially problematic, as it can trap Skarmory if it isn't holding a Shed Shell.

**Fire-types**: Heatran, Volcarona, and Mega Charizard X can all take advantage of Skarmory. The former can set up Stealth Rock or throw out a powerful Magma Storm, while the latter two can use it as setup fodder. However, Volcarona must be wary when setting up against variants with Brave Bird.

**Special attackers**: Greninja, Magearna, Kyurem, and Hydreigon, as well as other special attackers have little trouble getting past Skarmory due to its low special bulk. Pokemon like Mega Alakazam and Tapu Lele also overwhelm Skarmory with very strong STAB attacks or neutral coverage moves like Focus Blast

**Taunt**: Tornadus-T and Tapu Fini can shut down Skarmory with Taunt, leaving it unable to set up Spikes, use Roost to stay healthy, or Whirlwind to phaze them.

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

Thanks for waiting, nice work. qc 1/3

3000 years later

Ready for 2nd check

 

[Leo]

Thanks to a high Defense stat and decent typing, Skarmory is a good check to a bunch of physical attackers including Garchomp, Kartana, Tapu Bulu, and Mega Scizor.

I know this list is fairly long already but SD Lando is definitely worth adding here seeing as Skarm is one of the few mons that can stop it from getting a guaranteed kill

However, Skarmory must be wary of very powerful attacks, as well as super effective coverage moves. +2 All Out Pummelling from Kartana and Fire Punch from Mega Tyranitar will OHKO and 2HKO respectively unless Skarmory is kept near full health.

I'd add here that it should be cautious when switching into a Garchomp early in the game since it could turn out to be a mixed Mega set that would blow it back with fire blast

2/3

 

[DKM]

I know this list is fairly long already but SD Lando is definitely worth adding here seeing as Skarm is one of the few mons that can stop it from getting a guaranteed kill

I'd add here that it should be cautious when switching into a Garchomp early in the game since it could turn out to be a mixed Mega set that would blow it back with fire blast

2/3

 

[Jordy]

comments in purple things to remove in red

[OVERVIEW]

Thanks to a high Defense stat and decent typing, Skarmory is a good check to a bunch of physical attackers including Garchomp, Kartana, Tapu Bulu, Landorus-T, and Mega Scizor. I think that you can definitely sell Skarmory's typing a bit more; it's a great defensive typing, but Skarmory doesn't use it that well. What I mean by that is that it can't act as a true check to Psychic-types. Between Whirlwind and Toxic, it can deal with these Pokemon as they try to set up or attack. Skarmory also has access to Spikes, which it can set up mutiple times throughout a battle. For these reasons, Skarmory is a decent pick on Stall and balance teams. However, Skarmory’s low HP and Special Defense stats mean it struggles to take even resisted hits from special attackers like Tapu Lele and Mega Alakazam, leaving it outclassed by Celesteela in this regard. Skarmory is also very passive, relying on Toxic to deal damage unless it is running Counter or Brave Bird. This leaves it completely useless against Taunt users like Tornadus-T and Tapu Fini. Despite its high Defense stat, physical attackers such as Swords Dance Kartana and Garchomp can potentially overwhelm Skarmory with Z-moves if they've already set up.

[SET]
name: Physically Defensive
move 1: Roost
move 2: Spikes
move 3: Whirlwind
move 4: Toxic
item: Rocky Helmet
ability: Sturdy
nature: Bold
evs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD

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

Spikes is used to wear down the opposing team, especially in combination with Whirlwind. This is useful on the stall and balance teams Skarmory is found on. Whirlwind allows Skarmory to phaze Pokemon like Garchomp, Tapu Bulu, and Mega Scizor that could otherwise keep setting up and overwhelm it. You could probably simplify this by saying "setup sweepers" instead of "Pokemon", but that's up to you. Similary, this move can prevent Substitute users like Serperior and Kyurem, or bulky Calm Mind users like Mega Latias and Reuniclus from using Skarmory as setup fodder. Toxic is used to cripple Pokemon, especially set up sweepers like Tapu Bulu and Garchomp, wearing them down and easing Skarmory's time against them. It also punishes Defog users such as Tornadus-T, Rotom-W, and Zapdos that switch in to remove Skarmory's Spikes. Counter can be used to handle physical attackers that Skarmory checks such as Kartana and Mega Tyranitar. Although it has to be used correctly in tandem with Whirlwind to reliably handle Pokemon with set up moves. Instead of saying that it has to be used correctly you should probably focus the wording more on how unreliable it is. Brave Bird deals immediate damage without having to rely on Toxic or Counter. It hits Grass-types like Tapu Bulu and Tangrowth for decent damage, and OHKOes Fighting-types like Mega Medicham and Mega Heracross that are usually troublesome for defensive teams. Usually, Counter and Brave Bird don't fit anyway so maybe explain that so that the reader knows.

Set Details
========

HP and Defense stats are maximized as Skarmory has little hope of dealing with special attackers regardless. The investment is needed to take boosted Z-moves like Continental Crush from Garchomp and All Out Pummelling from Kartana. Rocky Helmet punishes contact moves from Pokemon such as Kartana, Tapu Bulu, and Mega Scizor, as well as U-turn from the likes of Landorus-T and Jirachi. Shed Shell can be used to prevent Magnezone from trapping Skarmory, improving the matchup against teams with Magnezone + Tapu Bulu or Kartana. Not sure if you should specify Tapu Bulu or Kartana here considering that Mega Scizor and Garchomp are also plausible on teams with Magnezone. Sturdy allows Skarmory to live one hit from full HP in order to use Whirlwind or Counter against a foe in a pinch..An Impish nature should be used alongside Brave Bird to avoid weakening it.

Usage Tips
========

Skarmory can be switched into a bunch of physical attackers, its health should be maintained by using Roost often so that it can take attacks like Sacred Sword from Choice Band Kartana and +2 Continential Crush from Garchomp. However, Skarmory must be wary of very powerful attacks, as well as super effective coverage moves. +2 All Out Pummelling from Kartana and Fire Punch from Mega Tyranitar will OHKO and 2HKO respectively unless Skarmory is kept near full health. Skarmory must also be careful when switching into Garchomp before its set is revealed, as it could turn out to be a Mega Garchomp with Fire Blast. Avoid switching Skarmory into special attackers, as even resisted attacks like Psychic from Tapu Lele as well as neutral attacks like Ice Beam from Mega Latias will overwhelm it. Spikes is best used against Pokemon that can't deal much damage to Skarmory, such as Ferrothorn, Mega Scizor, and Gliscor, as well as choice-locked Kartana and Landorus-T. I don't think that Ferrothorn is the best example here, considering that you're just trading Spikes. If Skarmory is lacking a Shed Shell and the opponent has Magnezone, it should be wary of using Spikes or Toxic and should instead double switch or use Whirlwind. If Stealth Rock is off the field and Skarmory is at full HP, it can utilize Sturdy along with Whirlwind or Counter to act as an emergency check to Pokemon such as +2 Mega Mawile or Mega Heracross which could otherwise OHKO it with Thunder Punch and Close Combat respectively.

Team Options
========

Skarmory fits best on stall and balance teams that appreciate a blanket check to physical attackers, as well as Spikes. Chansey is one of the best partners that fits on stall, it acts as a blanket check to special attackers that Skarmory can’t deal with. It can also set up Stealth Rock, forming a hazard stacking core with it to wear down the opposing team. Pokemon with Unaware like Clefable and Quagsire help against setup sweepers that Skarmory can’t deal with. The former takes on Mega Heracross and Serperior, while the latter can deal with Mega Charizard X and can also stop Electric-types. Gliscor and Hippowdown are Stealth Rock setters that pair well with Skarmory, the former checks Heatran, while the later deals with physical attackers such as Mega Mawile and Mega Charizard X that Skarmory fails to check. Both of these also prevent Electric-types from spamming Volt Switch. Pokemon that can deal with Fire-types, such as Mega Latias, Gliscor, and Toxapex help against Heatran and Volcarona which switch into Skarmory for free. Bulky Grass-types like Tangrowth and Amoonguss can reliably check Electric-types including Tapu Koko and Rotom-W. Gastrodon is an interesting partner that completely stops these Electric-types, while also dealing with other special attackers like Heatran and Ash-Greninja.

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

Defog can be used if Skarmory’s team needs a form of hazard removal. Although it has a favourable matchup against hazard setters like Garchomp and Ferrothorn, it fails to force them out and keep hazards off reliably. A poor matchup against other hazard setters like Heatran and Greninja also make it an unreliable defogger. Iron Defense can be used alongside 96 Speed EVs in order to outspeed and beat Swords Dance Mega Mawile one-on-one, while also easing prediction against the likes of Swords Dance Garchomp. However, it has no other use and is hard to fit onto Skarmory’s set. Stealth Rock is an alternative if Skarmory's team is lacking it. However, one of the main reasons for using Skarmory is for its access to Spikes, there are also better Stealth Rock setters that can fit on stall and balance teams.

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

**Electric-types**: Tapu Koko, Rotom-W and Zapdos all force out Skarmory with their super effective STAB attacks, they can also use Defog to remove Spikes that Skarmory sets. Magnezone is especially problematic, as it can trap Skarmory if it isn't holding a Shed Shell.

**Fire-types**: Heatran, Volcarona, and Mega Charizard X can all take advantage of Skarmory. The former can set up Stealth Rock or throw out a powerful Magma Storm, while the latter two can use it as setup fodder. However, Volcarona must be wary when setting up against variants with Brave Bird.

**Special attackers**: Greninja, Magearna, Kyurem, and Hydreigon, as well as other special attackers have little trouble getting past Skarmory due to its low special bulk. Pokemon like Mega Alakazam and Tapu Lele also overwhelm Skarmory with very strong STAB attacks or neutral coverage moves like Focus Blast

**Taunt**: Tornadus-T and Tapu Fini can shut down Skarmory with Taunt, leaving it unable to set up Spikes, use Roost to stay healthy, or Whirlwind to phaze them.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[DKM, 402001]]
- Quality checked by: [[GMars, 273636], [Leo, 328915], [, ]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]

I was mostly nitpicking, this is good. 3/3

 

[autumn]

GP 1/2

Hide

[OVERVIEW]

Thanks to a high Defense stat and great defensive typing, Skarmory is a good check to a bunch of several (optional just removes casual writing) physical attackers including Garchomp, Kartana, Tapu Bulu, Landorus-T, and Mega Scizor due to its access to Whirlwind and Toxic. Between Whirlwind and Toxic, it can deal with these Pokemon as they try to set up or attack. (feel free to expand on this; overvie had several points with similar structure and this helps flow) Skarmory also has access to Spikes, which it can set up mutiple times throughout a battle. For these reasons, Skarmory is a decent pick on stall and balance teams. However, Skarmory's low HP and Special Defense stats mean it struggles to take even resisted hits from special attackers like Tapu Lele and Mega Alakazam, leaving it outclassed by Celesteela in this regard. Skarmory is also very passive, relying on Toxic to deal damage unless it is running Counter or Brave Bird. This leaves it completely useless against Taunt users like Tornadus-T and Tapu Fini. Despite its high Defense stat, physical attackers such as Swords Dance Kartana and Garchomp can potentially overwhelm Skarmory with Z-Moves if they've already setup they have already set up.

[SET]
name: Physically Defensive
move 1: Roost
move 2: Spikes
move 3: Whirlwind
move 4: Toxic
item: Rocky Helmet
ability: Sturdy
nature: Bold
evs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD (248 hp is not a stealth rock number so address this w qc nless there's another reason for it)

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

Spikes is used to wear down the opposing team, especially in combination with Whirlwind. This is useful on the stall and balance teams Skarmory is found on. Whirlwind allows Skarmory to phaze setup sweepers like Garchomp, Tapu Bulu, and Mega Scizor. Similary Similarly, this move can prevent Substitute users like Serperior and Kyurem (RC) or bulky Calm Mind users like Mega Latias and Reuniclus from using Skarmory as setup fodder. Toxic is used to cripple Pokemon, especially set up setup sweepers like Tapu Bulu and Garchomp, wearing them down and easing Skarmory's time matchup against them. It also punishes Defog users such as Tornadus-T, Rotom-W, and Zapdos that switch in to remove Skarmory's Spikes. Counter can be used to handle physical attackers that Skarmory checks such as Kartana and Mega Tyranitar, although it's somewhat unreliable, especially against Pokemon with setup moves, so it struggles to fit onto Skarmory's moveset. Brave Bird deals immediate damage to foes without having to rely on Toxic or Counter, although it's hard to justify over Skarmory's other moves. It hits Grass-types like Tapu Bulu and Tangrowth for decent damage, and OHKOes Fighting-types like Mega Medicham and Mega Heracross that are usually troublesome for defensive teams.

Set Details
========

Skarmory's HP and Defense stats are maximized, (AC) as Skarmory it has little hope of dealing with special attackers regardless. The investment is needed to take boosted Z-Moves like Continental Crush from Garchomp and All-Out Pummeling from Kartana. Rocky Helmet punishes contact moves from Pokemon such as Kartana, Tapu Bulu, and Mega Scizor, as well as U-turn from the likes of Landorus-T and Jirachi. Shed Shell can be used to prevent Magnezone from trapping Skarmory. Sturdy allows Skarmory to live take one hit from full HP in order to use Whirlwind or Counter against a foe in a pinch. An Impish nature should be used alongside Brave Bird to avoid weakening it.

Usage Tips
========

Skarmory can be switched into a bunch of physical attackers that it checks, and its health should be maintained by using Roost often so that it can take attacks like Sacred Sword from Choice Band Kartana and +2 Continential Crush from Garchomp. However, Skarmory must be wary of very powerful attacks, as well as super effective coverage moves. +2 All-Out Pummeling from Kartana and Fire Punch from Mega Tyranitar will OHKO and 2HKO Skarmory, (AC) respectively, (AC) unless Skarmory is kept near full health. Skarmory must also be careful when switching into Garchomp before its set is revealed, as it could turn out to be a Mega Garchomp with Fire Blast. Avoid switching Skarmory into special attackers, as even resisted attacks like Psychic from Tapu Lele as well as neutral attacks like Ice Beam from Mega Latias will overwhelm it. Spikes is best used against Pokemon that can't deal much damage to Skarmory such as Mega Scizor and Gliscor, as well as Choice-locked Kartana and Landorus-T. If Skarmory is lacking a Shed Shell, (AC) it should be wary of using Spikes or Toxic if the opponent has a Magnezone and should instead double switch or use Whirlwind. If Stealth Rock is off the field and Skarmory is at full HP, it can utilize Sturdy along with Whirlwind or Counter to act as an emergency check to Pokemon such as +2 Mega Mawile or Mega Heracross, (AC) which could otherwise OHKO it with Thunder Punch and Close Combat, (AC) respectively.

Team Options
========

Skarmory fits best on stall and balance teams that appreciate a blanket check to physical attackers, as well as and Spikes support. Chansey is one of the best partners that fits on stall; (semicolon) it acts as a blanket check to special attackers that Skarmory can't deal with. (such as?) It can also set up Stealth Rock, forming an entry hazard stacking core with Skarmory to wear down the opposing team. Pokemon with Unaware like Clefable and Quagsire help against setup sweepers that Skarmory can't deal with. The former takes on Mega Heracross and Serperior, while the latter can deal with Mega Charizard X and can also stop Electric-types. Gliscor and Hippowdown Hippowdon are Stealth Rock setters that pair well with Skarmory. (period) The former checks Heatran, while the later deals with physical attackers such as Mega Mawile and Mega Charizard X that Skarmory fails to check. Both of these also prevent Electric-types from spamming Volt Switch. Pokemon that can deal with Fire-types, such as Mega Latias, Gliscor, and Toxapex, (AC) help against Heatran and Volcarona, (AC) which switch into Skarmory for free. Bulky Grass-types like Tangrowth and Amoonguss can reliably check Electric-types including Tapu Koko and Rotom-W. Gastrodon is an interesting partner that completely stops these Electric-types (RC) while also dealing with other special attackers like Heatran and Ash-Greninja.

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

Defog can be used if Skarmory's team needs a form of hazard removal. Although it Skarmory has a favourable matchup against entry hazard setters like Garchomp and Ferrothorn, it fails to force them out and keep hazards off reliably. A poor matchup against other hazard setters like Heatran and Greninja also makes it an unreliable Defogger. Iron Defense can be used alongside 96 Speed EVs in order to outspeed and beat Swords Dance Mega Mawile one-on-one (RC) while also easing prediction against the likes of Swords Dance Garchomp. However, it has no other use and is hard to fit onto Skarmory's set. Stealth Rock is an alternative if Skarmory's team is lacking it. However, one of the main reasons for using Skarmory is for its access to Spikes, and there are also better Stealth Rock setters that can fit on stall and balance teams.

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

**Electric-types**: Tapu Koko, Rotom-W and Zapdos all force out Skarmory with their super effective STAB attacks. (period) They can also use Defog to remove Spikes that Skarmory sets. Magnezone is especially problematic, as it can trap Skarmory if it isn't holding a Shed Shell.

**Fire-types**: Heatran, Volcarona, and Mega Charizard X can all take advantage of Skarmory. The former can set up Stealth Rock or throw out a powerful Magma Storm, while the latter two can use it as setup fodder. However, Volcarona must be wary when setting up against variants with Brave Bird.

**Special Attackers**: Special attackers such as Greninja, Magearna, Kyurem, and Hydreigon as well as other special attackers have little trouble getting past Skarmory due to its low special bulk. Pokemon like Mega Alakazam and Tapu Lele also overwhelm Skarmory with very strong STAB attacks or neutral coverage moves like Focus Blast.

**Taunt**: Tornadus-T and Tapu Fini can shut down Skarmory with Taunt, leaving it unable to set up Spikes, use Roost to stay healthy, or use Whirlwind to phaze them.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[DKM, 402001]]
- Quality checked by: [[GMars, 273636], [Leo, 328915], [Jordy, 395754]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]

 

[DKM]

GP 1/2

Hide

[OVERVIEW]

Thanks to a high Defense stat and great defensive typing, Skarmory is a good check to a bunch of several (optional just removes casual writing) physical attackers including Garchomp, Kartana, Tapu Bulu, Landorus-T, and Mega Scizor due to its access to Whirlwind and Toxic. Between Whirlwind and Toxic, it can deal with these Pokemon as they try to set up or attack. (feel free to expand on this; overvie had several points with similar structure and this helps flow) Skarmory also has access to Spikes, which it can set up mutiple times throughout a battle. For these reasons, Skarmory is a decent pick on stall and balance teams. However, Skarmory's low HP and Special Defense stats mean it struggles to take even resisted hits from special attackers like Tapu Lele and Mega Alakazam, leaving it outclassed by Celesteela in this regard. Skarmory is also very passive, relying on Toxic to deal damage unless it is running Counter or Brave Bird. This leaves it completely useless against Taunt users like Tornadus-T and Tapu Fini. Despite its high Defense stat, physical attackers such as Swords Dance Kartana and Garchomp can potentially overwhelm Skarmory with Z-Moves if they've already setup they have already set up.

[SET]
name: Physically Defensive
move 1: Roost
move 2: Spikes
move 3: Whirlwind
move 4: Toxic
item: Rocky Helmet
ability: Sturdy
nature: Bold
evs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD (248 hp is not a stealth rock number so address this w qc nless there's another reason for it)

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

Spikes is used to wear down the opposing team, especially in combination with Whirlwind. This is useful on the stall and balance teams Skarmory is found on. Whirlwind allows Skarmory to phaze setup sweepers like Garchomp, Tapu Bulu, and Mega Scizor. Similary Similarly, this move can prevent Substitute users like Serperior and Kyurem (RC) or bulky Calm Mind users like Mega Latias and Reuniclus from using Skarmory as setup fodder. Toxic is used to cripple Pokemon, especially set up setup sweepers like Tapu Bulu and Garchomp, wearing them down and easing Skarmory's time matchup against them. It also punishes Defog users such as Tornadus-T, Rotom-W, and Zapdos that switch in to remove Skarmory's Spikes. Counter can be used to handle physical attackers that Skarmory checks such as Kartana and Mega Tyranitar, although it's somewhat unreliable, especially against Pokemon with setup moves, so it struggles to fit onto Skarmory's moveset. Brave Bird deals immediate damage to foes without having to rely on Toxic or Counter, although it's hard to justify over Skarmory's other moves. It hits Grass-types like Tapu Bulu and Tangrowth for decent damage, and OHKOes Fighting-types like Mega Medicham and Mega Heracross that are usually troublesome for defensive teams.

Set Details
========

Skarmory's HP and Defense stats are maximized, (AC) as Skarmory it has little hope of dealing with special attackers regardless. The investment is needed to take boosted Z-Moves like Continental Crush from Garchomp and All-Out Pummeling from Kartana. Rocky Helmet punishes contact moves from Pokemon such as Kartana, Tapu Bulu, and Mega Scizor, as well as U-turn from the likes of Landorus-T and Jirachi. Shed Shell can be used to prevent Magnezone from trapping Skarmory. Sturdy allows Skarmory to live take one hit from full HP in order to use Whirlwind or Counter against a foe in a pinch. An Impish nature should be used alongside Brave Bird to avoid weakening it.

Usage Tips
========

Skarmory can be switched into a bunch of physical attackers that it checks, and its health should be maintained by using Roost often so that it can take attacks like Sacred Sword from Choice Band Kartana and +2 Continential Crush from Garchomp. However, Skarmory must be wary of very powerful attacks, as well as super effective coverage moves. +2 All-Out Pummeling from Kartana and Fire Punch from Mega Tyranitar will OHKO and 2HKO Skarmory, (AC) respectively, (AC) unless Skarmory is kept near full health. Skarmory must also be careful when switching into Garchomp before its set is revealed, as it could turn out to be a Mega Garchomp with Fire Blast. Avoid switching Skarmory into special attackers, as even resisted attacks like Psychic from Tapu Lele as well as neutral attacks like Ice Beam from Mega Latias will overwhelm it. Spikes is best used against Pokemon that can't deal much damage to Skarmory such as Mega Scizor and Gliscor, as well as Choice-locked Kartana and Landorus-T. If Skarmory is lacking a Shed Shell, (AC) it should be wary of using Spikes or Toxic if the opponent has a Magnezone and should instead double switch or use Whirlwind. If Stealth Rock is off the field and Skarmory is at full HP, it can utilize Sturdy along with Whirlwind or Counter to act as an emergency check to Pokemon such as +2 Mega Mawile or Mega Heracross, (AC) which could otherwise OHKO it with Thunder Punch and Close Combat, (AC) respectively.

Team Options
========

Skarmory fits best on stall and balance teams that appreciate a blanket check to physical attackers, as well as and Spikes support. Chansey is one of the best partners that fits on stall; (semicolon) it acts as a blanket check to special attackers that Skarmory can't deal with. (such as?) It can also set up Stealth Rock, forming an entry hazard stacking core with Skarmory to wear down the opposing team. Pokemon with Unaware like Clefable and Quagsire help against setup sweepers that Skarmory can't deal with. The former takes on Mega Heracross and Serperior, while the latter can deal with Mega Charizard X and can also stop Electric-types. Gliscor and Hippowdown Hippowdon are Stealth Rock setters that pair well with Skarmory. (period) The former checks Heatran, while the later deals with physical attackers such as Mega Mawile and Mega Charizard X that Skarmory fails to check. Both of these also prevent Electric-types from spamming Volt Switch. Pokemon that can deal with Fire-types, such as Mega Latias, Gliscor, and Toxapex, (AC) help against Heatran and Volcarona, (AC) which switch into Skarmory for free. Bulky Grass-types like Tangrowth and Amoonguss can reliably check Electric-types including Tapu Koko and Rotom-W. Gastrodon is an interesting partner that completely stops these Electric-types (RC) while also dealing with other special attackers like Heatran and Ash-Greninja.

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

Defog can be used if Skarmory's team needs a form of hazard removal. Although it Skarmory has a favourable matchup against entry hazard setters like Garchomp and Ferrothorn, it fails to force them out and keep hazards off reliably. A poor matchup against other hazard setters like Heatran and Greninja also makes it an unreliable Defogger. Iron Defense can be used alongside 96 Speed EVs in order to outspeed and beat Swords Dance Mega Mawile one-on-one (RC) while also easing prediction against the likes of Swords Dance Garchomp. However, it has no other use and is hard to fit onto Skarmory's set. Stealth Rock is an alternative if Skarmory's team is lacking it. However, one of the main reasons for using Skarmory is for its access to Spikes, and there are also better Stealth Rock setters that can fit on stall and balance teams.

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

**Electric-types**: Tapu Koko, Rotom-W and Zapdos all force out Skarmory with their super effective STAB attacks. (period) They can also use Defog to remove Spikes that Skarmory sets. Magnezone is especially problematic, as it can trap Skarmory if it isn't holding a Shed Shell.

**Fire-types**: Heatran, Volcarona, and Mega Charizard X can all take advantage of Skarmory. The former can set up Stealth Rock or throw out a powerful Magma Storm, while the latter two can use it as setup fodder. However, Volcarona must be wary when setting up against variants with Brave Bird.

**Special Attackers**: Special attackers such as Greninja, Magearna, Kyurem, and Hydreigon as well as other special attackers have little trouble getting past Skarmory due to its low special bulk. Pokemon like Mega Alakazam and Tapu Lele also overwhelm Skarmory with very strong STAB attacks or neutral coverage moves like Focus Blast.

**Taunt**: Tornadus-T and Tapu Fini can shut down Skarmory with Taunt, leaving it unable to set up Spikes, use Roost to stay healthy, or use Whirlwind to phaze them.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[DKM, 402001]]
- Quality checked by: [[GMars, 273636], [Leo, 328915], [Jordy, 395754]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]

Done. Ready for the last check

 

[Nix_Hex]

Hide

[OVERVIEW]

Thanks to a high Defense stat and great defensive typing, Skarmory is a good check to several physical attackers including Garchomp, Kartana, Tapu Bulu, Landorus-T, and Mega Scizor due to its access to Whirlwind and Toxic. Skarmory also has access to Spikes, which it can set up mutiple times throughout a battle. For these reasons, Skarmory is a decent pick on stall and balance teams. However, Skarmory's low HP and Special Defense stats mean it struggles to take even resisted hits from special attackers like Tapu Lele and Mega Alakazam, leaving it outclassed by Celesteela in this regard. Skarmory is also very passive, relying on Toxic to deal damage unless it is running Counter or Brave Bird. This leaves it completely useless against Taunt users like Tornadus-T and Tapu Fini. Despite its high Defense stat, physical attackers such as Swords Dance Kartana and Garchomp can potentially overwhelm Skarmory with Z-Moves if they have already set up.

[SET]
name: Physically Defensive
move 1: Roost
move 2: Spikes
move 3: Whirlwind
move 4: Toxic
item: Rocky Helmet
ability: Sturdy
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD

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

Spikes is used to wear down the opposing team, especially in combination with Whirlwind. This is useful on the stall and balance teams that Skarmory is found on. Whirlwind allows Skarmory to phaze setup sweepers like Garchomp, Tapu Bulu, and Mega Scizor. Similarly, this move can prevent Substitute users like Serperior and Kyurem or bulky Calm Mind users like Mega Latias and Reuniclus from using Skarmory as setup fodder. Toxic is used to cripple Pokemon, especially setup sweepers like Tapu Bulu and Garchomp, wearing them down and easing Skarmory's matchup against them. It also punishes Defog users such as Tornadus-T, Rotom-W, and Zapdos that switch in to remove Skarmory's Spikes. Counter can be used to handle physical attackers that Skarmory checks such as Kartana and Mega Tyranitar,[RC].[AP] although However, it's somewhat unreliable, especially against Pokemon with setup moves, so it struggles to fit onto Skarmory's moveset. Brave Bird deals immediate damage to foes without having to rely on Toxic or Counter, although it's hard to justify over Skarmory's other moves. It hits Grass-types like Tapu Bulu and Tangrowth for decent damage, and OHKOes Fighting-types like Mega Medicham and Mega Heracross that are usually troublesome for defensive teams.

Set Details
========

Skarmory's HP and Defense stats are maximized, as it has little hope of dealing with special attackers regardless. The investment is needed to take boosted Z-Moves like Continental Crush from Garchomp and All-Out Pummeling from Kartana. Rocky Helmet punishes contact moves from Pokemon such as Kartana, Tapu Bulu, and Mega Scizor, as well as U-turn from the likes of Landorus-T and Jirachi. Shed Shell can be used to prevent Magnezone from trapping Skarmory. Sturdy allows Skarmory to take one hit from full HP in order to use Whirlwind or Counter against a foe in a pinch. An Impish nature should be used alongside Brave Bird to avoid weakening it.

Usage Tips
========

Skarmory can be switched into physical attackers that it checks, and its health should be maintained by using Roost often so that it can take attacks like Sacred Sword from Choice Band Kartana and +2 Continential Continental Crush from Garchomp. However, Skarmory must be wary of very powerful attacks, as well as super effective coverage moves. A +2 All-Out Pummeling from Kartana and Fire Punch from Mega Tyranitar will OHKO and 2HKO Skarmory, respectively, unless Skarmory is kept near full health. Skarmory must also be careful when switching into Garchomp before its set is revealed, as it could turn out to be a Mega Garchomp with Fire Blast. Avoid switching Skarmory into special attackers, as even resisted attacks like Psychic from Tapu Lele as well as neutral attacks like Ice Beam from Mega Latias will overwhelm it. Spikes is best used against Pokemon that can't deal much damage to Skarmory such as Mega Scizor and Gliscor, as well as Choice-locked Kartana and Landorus-T. If Skarmory is lacking a Shed Shell, it should be wary of using Spikes or Toxic if the opponent has a Magnezone and should instead double switch or use Whirlwind. If Stealth Rock is off the field and Skarmory is at full HP, it can utilize Sturdy along with Whirlwind or Counter to act as an emergency check to Pokemon such as +2 Mega Mawile or Mega Heracross, which could otherwise OHKO it with Thunder Punch and Close Combat, respectively.

Team Options
========

Skarmory fits best on stall and balance teams that appreciate a blanket check to physical attackers and Spikes support. Chansey is one of the best partners that fits on stall; it acts as a blanket check to special attackers that Skarmory can't deal with such as Ash-Greninja and Mega Alakazam. It can also set up Stealth Rock, forming an entry hazard stacking core with Skarmory to wear down the opposing team. Pokemon with Unaware like Clefable and Quagsire help against setup sweepers that Skarmory can't deal with. The former takes on Mega Heracross and Serperior, while the latter can deal with Mega Charizard X and stop Electric-types. Gliscor and Hippowdon are Stealth Rock setters that pair well with Skarmory. The former checks Heatran, while the later deals with physical attackers such as Mega Mawile and Mega Charizard X that Skarmory fails to check. Both of these also prevent Electric-types from spamming Volt Switch. Pokemon that can deal with Fire-types, such as Mega Latias, Gliscor, and Toxapex, help against Heatran and Volcarona, which switch into Skarmory for free. Bulky Grass-types like Tangrowth and Amoonguss can reliably check Electric-types including like Tapu Koko and Rotom-W. Gastrodon is an interesting partner that completely stops these Electric-types while also dealing with other special attackers like Heatran and Ash-Greninja.

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

Defog can be used if Skarmory's team needs a form of hazard removal. Although Skarmory has a favourable favorable matchup against entry hazard setters like Garchomp and Ferrothorn, it fails to force them out and keep hazards off reliably. A Poor matchups against other hazard setters like Heatran and Greninja also makes it an unreliable Defogger. Iron Defense can be used alongside 96 Speed EVs in order to outspeed and beat Swords Dance Mega Mawile one-on-one while also easing prediction against the likes of Swords Dance Garchomp. However, it has no other use and is hard to fit onto Skarmory's set. Stealth Rock is an alternative if Skarmory's team is lacking it. However, one of the main reasons for using Skarmory is for its access to Spikes, and there are also better Stealth Rock setters that can fit on stall and balance teams.

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

**Electric-types**: Tapu Koko, Rotom-W,[AC] and Zapdos all force out Skarmory with their super effective STAB attacks. They can also use Defog to remove Spikes that Skarmory sets. Magnezone is especially problematic, as it can trap Skarmory if it isn't holding a Shed Shell.

**Fire-types**: Heatran, Volcarona, and Mega Charizard X can all take advantage of Skarmory. The former can set up Stealth Rock or throw out a powerful Magma Storm, while the latter two can use it as setup fodder. However, Volcarona must be wary when setting up against variants with Brave Bird.

**Special Attackers**: Special attackers such as Greninja, Magearna, Kyurem, and Hydreigon have little trouble getting past Skarmory due to its low special bulk. Pokemon like Mega Alakazam and Tapu Lele also overwhelm Skarmory with very strong STAB attacks or neutral coverage moves like Focus Blast.

**Taunt**: Tornadus-T and Tapu Fini can shut down Skarmory with Taunt, leaving it unable to set up Spikes,[RC].[AP] The former can use Roost to stay healthy, or use Whirlwind to phaze them.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[DKM, 402001]]
- Quality checked by: [[GMars, 273636], [Leo, 328915], [Jordy, 395754]]
- Grammar checked by: [[martha, 384270], [, ]]

GP 2/2 good job.

 

[DKM]

Hide

[OVERVIEW]

Thanks to a high Defense stat and great defensive typing, Skarmory is a good check to several physical attackers including Garchomp, Kartana, Tapu Bulu, Landorus-T, and Mega Scizor due to its access to Whirlwind and Toxic. Skarmory also has access to Spikes, which it can set up mutiple times throughout a battle. For these reasons, Skarmory is a decent pick on stall and balance teams. However, Skarmory's low HP and Special Defense stats mean it struggles to take even resisted hits from special attackers like Tapu Lele and Mega Alakazam, leaving it outclassed by Celesteela in this regard. Skarmory is also very passive, relying on Toxic to deal damage unless it is running Counter or Brave Bird. This leaves it completely useless against Taunt users like Tornadus-T and Tapu Fini. Despite its high Defense stat, physical attackers such as Swords Dance Kartana and Garchomp can potentially overwhelm Skarmory with Z-Moves if they have already set up.

[SET]
name: Physically Defensive
move 1: Roost
move 2: Spikes
move 3: Whirlwind
move 4: Toxic
item: Rocky Helmet
ability: Sturdy
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD

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

Spikes is used to wear down the opposing team, especially in combination with Whirlwind. This is useful on the stall and balance teams that Skarmory is found on. Whirlwind allows Skarmory to phaze setup sweepers like Garchomp, Tapu Bulu, and Mega Scizor. Similarly, this move can prevent Substitute users like Serperior and Kyurem or bulky Calm Mind users like Mega Latias and Reuniclus from using Skarmory as setup fodder. Toxic is used to cripple Pokemon, especially setup sweepers like Tapu Bulu and Garchomp, wearing them down and easing Skarmory's matchup against them. It also punishes Defog users such as Tornadus-T, Rotom-W, and Zapdos that switch in to remove Skarmory's Spikes. Counter can be used to handle physical attackers that Skarmory checks such as Kartana and Mega Tyranitar,[RC].[AP] although However, it's somewhat unreliable, especially against Pokemon with setup moves, so it struggles to fit onto Skarmory's moveset. Brave Bird deals immediate damage to foes without having to rely on Toxic or Counter, although it's hard to justify over Skarmory's other moves. It hits Grass-types like Tapu Bulu and Tangrowth for decent damage, and OHKOes Fighting-types like Mega Medicham and Mega Heracross that are usually troublesome for defensive teams.

Set Details
========

Skarmory's HP and Defense stats are maximized, as it has little hope of dealing with special attackers regardless. The investment is needed to take boosted Z-Moves like Continental Crush from Garchomp and All-Out Pummeling from Kartana. Rocky Helmet punishes contact moves from Pokemon such as Kartana, Tapu Bulu, and Mega Scizor, as well as U-turn from the likes of Landorus-T and Jirachi. Shed Shell can be used to prevent Magnezone from trapping Skarmory. Sturdy allows Skarmory to take one hit from full HP in order to use Whirlwind or Counter against a foe in a pinch. An Impish nature should be used alongside Brave Bird to avoid weakening it.

Usage Tips
========

Skarmory can be switched into physical attackers that it checks, and its health should be maintained by using Roost often so that it can take attacks like Sacred Sword from Choice Band Kartana and +2 Continential Continental Crush from Garchomp. However, Skarmory must be wary of very powerful attacks, as well as super effective coverage moves. A +2 All-Out Pummeling from Kartana and Fire Punch from Mega Tyranitar will OHKO and 2HKO Skarmory, respectively, unless Skarmory is kept near full health. Skarmory must also be careful when switching into Garchomp before its set is revealed, as it could turn out to be a Mega Garchomp with Fire Blast. Avoid switching Skarmory into special attackers, as even resisted attacks like Psychic from Tapu Lele as well as neutral attacks like Ice Beam from Mega Latias will overwhelm it. Spikes is best used against Pokemon that can't deal much damage to Skarmory such as Mega Scizor and Gliscor, as well as Choice-locked Kartana and Landorus-T. If Skarmory is lacking a Shed Shell, it should be wary of using Spikes or Toxic if the opponent has a Magnezone and should instead double switch or use Whirlwind. If Stealth Rock is off the field and Skarmory is at full HP, it can utilize Sturdy along with Whirlwind or Counter to act as an emergency check to Pokemon such as +2 Mega Mawile or Mega Heracross, which could otherwise OHKO it with Thunder Punch and Close Combat, respectively.

Team Options
========

Skarmory fits best on stall and balance teams that appreciate a blanket check to physical attackers and Spikes support. Chansey is one of the best partners that fits on stall; it acts as a blanket check to special attackers that Skarmory can't deal with such as Ash-Greninja and Mega Alakazam. It can also set up Stealth Rock, forming an entry hazard stacking core with Skarmory to wear down the opposing team. Pokemon with Unaware like Clefable and Quagsire help against setup sweepers that Skarmory can't deal with. The former takes on Mega Heracross and Serperior, while the latter can deal with Mega Charizard X and stop Electric-types. Gliscor and Hippowdon are Stealth Rock setters that pair well with Skarmory. The former checks Heatran, while the later deals with physical attackers such as Mega Mawile and Mega Charizard X that Skarmory fails to check. Both of these also prevent Electric-types from spamming Volt Switch. Pokemon that can deal with Fire-types, such as Mega Latias, Gliscor, and Toxapex, help against Heatran and Volcarona, which switch into Skarmory for free. Bulky Grass-types like Tangrowth and Amoonguss can reliably check Electric-types including like Tapu Koko and Rotom-W. Gastrodon is an interesting partner that completely stops these Electric-types while also dealing with other special attackers like Heatran and Ash-Greninja.

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

Defog can be used if Skarmory's team needs a form of hazard removal. Although Skarmory has a favourable favorable matchup against entry hazard setters like Garchomp and Ferrothorn, it fails to force them out and keep hazards off reliably. A Poor matchups against other hazard setters like Heatran and Greninja also makes it an unreliable Defogger. Iron Defense can be used alongside 96 Speed EVs in order to outspeed and beat Swords Dance Mega Mawile one-on-one while also easing prediction against the likes of Swords Dance Garchomp. However, it has no other use and is hard to fit onto Skarmory's set. Stealth Rock is an alternative if Skarmory's team is lacking it. However, one of the main reasons for using Skarmory is for its access to Spikes, and there are also better Stealth Rock setters that can fit on stall and balance teams.

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

**Electric-types**: Tapu Koko, Rotom-W,[AC] and Zapdos all force out Skarmory with their super effective STAB attacks. They can also use Defog to remove Spikes that Skarmory sets. Magnezone is especially problematic, as it can trap Skarmory if it isn't holding a Shed Shell.

**Fire-types**: Heatran, Volcarona, and Mega Charizard X can all take advantage of Skarmory. The former can set up Stealth Rock or throw out a powerful Magma Storm, while the latter two can use it as setup fodder. However, Volcarona must be wary when setting up against variants with Brave Bird.

**Special Attackers**: Special attackers such as Greninja, Magearna, Kyurem, and Hydreigon have little trouble getting past Skarmory due to its low special bulk. Pokemon like Mega Alakazam and Tapu Lele also overwhelm Skarmory with very strong STAB attacks or neutral coverage moves like Focus Blast.

**Taunt**: Tornadus-T and Tapu Fini can shut down Skarmory with Taunt, leaving it unable to set up Spikes,[RC].[AP] The former can use Roost to stay healthy, or use Whirlwind to phaze them.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[DKM, 402001]]
- Quality checked by: [[GMars, 273636], [Leo, 328915], [Jordy, 395754]]
- Grammar checked by: [[martha, 384270], [, ]]

GP 2/2 good job.

This is done

 

[GMars]

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