Tapu Koko (Revamp) [1:3]

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[OVERVIEW]

  • Thanks to its powerful Thunderbolt and Volt Switches, Tapu Koko is capable of pressuring pretty much any Pokémon that doesn't resist Electric-type moves and Volt Switch out on Grass- and Dragon-types.
  • Due to the fact that most prominent Ground-types are quad weak to Hidden Power Ice, Tapu Koko can get rid of Electric-type immunities by itself most of the time with correct prediction and pose a threat to unprepared teams.
  • Tapu Koko also offers a plethora of unique and viable supportive options, such as Electric Terrain itself, Reflect, Light Screen, and Defog, all of which can be very helpful to teammates. To boot, it has useful resistances such as Flying and Fighting, that makes it help on the team building department.
  • Tapu Koko can also surprise and lure its usual checks with a Z-Wild Charge set.
  • A lightning fast speed tier is also a strong positive as Tapu Koko, as it can pivot into and outspeed several threatening Pokémon such as Mega Medicham and Kartana.
  • However, Tapu Koko can be pretty much dead-weight in certain matchups. Grass-types with Regenerator such as Tangrowth and Amoonguss don't mind anything Tapu Koko can throw at them and Ground-types that aren't quad weak to Hidden Power Ice, such as Excadrill and Hippowdon can also be extreme annoyances.
  • On the other hand, Tapu Koko's more supportive sets are quite weak and pose even less of a threat to prepared teams.
  • On a similar manner Z-Wild Charge sets are also vulnerable to the ever common Grass- and Dragon-types.
[SET]
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Volt Switch
move 2: Thunderbolt
move 3: Hidden Power Ice / Roost
move 4: Dazzling Gleam / Roost
item: Choice Specs
ability: Electric Surge
nature: Timid
evs: 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

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

  • Volt Switch allows Tapu Koko to pivot out against Grass- and Dragon-types, weakening them provided they lack Regenerator.
  • Hidden Power Ice is very important as it OHKOes the likes of Gliscor, Landorus-T, and Garchomp, knocking out most Electric Immunities in one hit, which makes Volt Switch extremely spammable.
  • Dazzling Gleam, hits Dragon-types such as Mega Latias and Latios, both Kyurem formes, and Hydreigon, while still hitting the aforementioned Ground-types hard enough, Garchomp is OHKOed and Gliscor (after Stealth Rock) and Landorus-T are 2HKOed.
  • Roost keeps Tapu Koko healthy and lets it continuously be able to pivot into Pokémon it's supposed to, such as Toxapex and Tapu Fini, otherwise, Tapu Koko would eventually not be able to switch into these if it gets too low, strongly hindering its ability to wallbreak. But it's necessary to give up either Hidden Power Ice or Dazzling Gleam.
  • Hidden Power Fire is an option alongside Dazzling Geam as it heavily damages Ferrothorn and Excadrill and Dazzling Gleam already covers most of the Ground-types, however, missing out OHKOing Gliscor and Landorus-T is very undesirable.
  • Defog also works on the last slot as an emergency net on teams very weak to hazards. This set shouldn't be your sole Defogger though.
Set Details
========

  • Choice Specs amps Tapu Koko's power to respectable levels, letting it be much more of a threat to specially defensive Pokémon that don't resist Electric, such as Mega Tyranitar and Heatran, who would otherwise be capable of stomaching hits much better.
Usage Tips
========

  • Prediction is quite important as long as there's an alive Ground-type on your opponent's team.
  • If possible try to get rid of Ground-types with Hidden Power Ice to make Volt Switch freer and try to Volt Switch into Grass- and Dragon-types.
  • If your opponent packs a sturdier Ground-type try to use Tapu Koko as more of a defensive pivot instead, switching into the likes of Tornadus-T and Toxapex, as its virtually impossible for Tapu Koko to break past the likes of Gastrodon, Excadrill, and Hippowdon without the ideal coverage move.
  • Even if Tapu Koko has a better matchup, it's still fine to pivot into threats it soft checks, just don't be too reckless, as getting it worn down could be quite detrimental, especially if it lacks Roost.
  • Be careful of Protect users such as Celesteela and Mega Dancie as they can scout Tapu Koko making it a lot easier to play around.
Team Options
========

  • Strong wallbreakers that can take advantage of Grass- and Dragon-types, such as Mega Mawile, Kyurem-B, Mega Medicham, Z-Fly Landorus-T, and Calm Mind Magearna greatly appreciate the opportunity Tapu Koko gives them with Volt Switch. All four also appreciate getting their Electric-type coverage boosted by Tapu Koko's terrain.
  • While Tapu Koko often gets opportunities to switch in on a match, teammates that provide it VoltTurn support are always welcomed too, allowing it to consistently pressure Grass- and Dragon-types without Regenerator. Assault Vest Magearna and Defensive Flynium Z Landorus-T are notable examples.
  • Teammates that can lure Tapu Koko's typical checks are always welcomed. Bloom Doom Heatran and Energy Ball Assault Vest Magearna take on Gastrodon and Hippowdon.
  • In a similar manner, Ash-Greninja, Protean Greninja, and Ferrothorn make wonderful allies as their Spikes helps mitigate Tangrowth and Amoonguss's Regenerator recovery. Ash-Greninja is also a really notable partner in another regard as together they can overwhelm defensive Grass-types.
[SET]
name: Dual Screens
move 1: Reflect
move 2: Light Screen
move 3: Taunt
move 4: U-turn
item: Light Clay
ability: Electric Surge
nature: Jolly
evs: 248 HP / 8 Def / 252 Spe

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

  • Taunt prevents Defoggers from removing Tapu Koko's screens and teammates' hazards as well. Can also be useful to deter setup.
  • U-turn helps Tapu Koko bring teammates in.
Set Details
========
  • Full investment in HP makes Tapu Koko sturdier and allows it to set up screens more often.
Usage Tips
========

  • Tapu Koko should be sent out early in the game, preferably after your lead sets up their hazards, but if your opponent has a Fake Out user such as Mega Lopunny or Mega Medicham leading with Tapu Koko is surely reasonable.
  • Another situation in which leading with Tapu Koko is clever is to block hazards with Taunt if your team lacks hazard removal.
  • Try to not let Tapu Koko get too low as you'll find yourself wanting to set up screens multiple times throughout a match.
Team Options
========

  • Set up sweepers greatly appreciate Tapu Koko's support with Dual Screens to get more opportunities to set up and all.
  • Magearna, Kommo-o, Hawlucha, Thundurus, Mega Gyarados, and Manaphy are all notable picks.
  • The former three also greatly appreciate Electric Terrain.
  • Lead Pokémon such as Excadrill and Landorus-T also pair well with Tapu Koko, getting stealth rock up in a majority of matchups and letting teammates wreak havoc from there.
[SET]
name: Z-Wild Charge
move 1: Wild Charge
move 2: Hidden Power Ice
move 3: Taunt
move 4: U-turn
item: Electrium Z
ability: Electric Surge
nature: Naive
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

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

  • Wild Charge can be upgraded to a devastatingly strong Gigavolt Havoc that hits would-be-Tapu Koko-switch-ins such as Chansey and Assault Vest Magearna for massive damage.
  • Hidden Power makes it so Tapu Koko isn't completely walled by Ground-types such as Landorus-T, Garchomp, and Gliscor.
  • Taunt enables Tapu Koko to shut down passive walls such as Zapdos and Clefable while preventing the likes of Mega Latias and Reuniclus from setting up.
  • U-turn lets Tapu Koko pivot out as Grass-types that wall it switch in. It's preferred over Volt Switch because this Tapu Koko is more physically inclined and U-turn also helps against Ground-types that aren't weak to Hidden Power Ice, such as Excadrill and Hippowdon.
Set Details
========

  • A Naive nature is preferred over Hasty so Tapu Koko can pivot into moves such as Mega Medicham's High Jump Kick and better take the likes of Mega Scizor's Bullet Punch and Hawlucha's High Jump Kick. A Jolly nature is undesirable as it makes it so Hidden Power Ice misses out the 2HKO on HP invested Landorus-T.
Usage Tips
========

  • Be careful not to reveal your set. U-turn and Hidden Power Ice damage indicate your Tapu Koko is invested into physical attack, and that gives away you're Z-Wild Charge, so pulling double switches might be ideal.
  • Revealing your set is especially bad here because this set's main gimmick is to lure Tapu Koko's typical checks.
  • Watch out for any Ground-types before using up your Z-move, even though risky, your opponent may still pivot them into Tapu Koko.
  • If Tapu Koko has a rough matchup against the opposing team, Taunt can be used on targets such as Ferrothorn to prevent it from getting up hazards and Garchomp or Magearna to prevent them from setting up, however these plays are quite risky so make sure to weight in the risk and reward.
Team Options
========

  • Special Attackers that appreciate Tapu Koko luring Chansey and Assault Vest Magearna in general are great allies.
  • This is even more notable on rain teams as Tapu Koko would be expected to run Thunder on these teams, but luring Assault Vest Magearna and Chansey opens up plety of opportunities for the likes of Ash-Greninja and Kingdra.
  • Other notable Pokémon that appreciate the absense of Assault Vest Magearna and Chansey are Tapu Lele, Magearna, and Mega Alakazam.
  • Flying-types such as Tornadus-T and Hawlucha can punish and take advantage of the Grass-types that annoy this Tapu Koko set.
  • Same goes with Fire-types like Heatran and Mega Charizard X.
  • Teammates like the aforementioned Magearna, as well as the likes of Mega Mawile, Mega Medicham, and Kyurem-B greatly appreciate their Electric-type coverage getting boosted too.
[SET]
name: Defog
move 1: Defog
move 2: Thunderbolt
move 3: Hidden Power Ice
move 4: Roost
item: Shuca Berry / Leftovers
ability: Electric Surge
nature: Timid
EVs: 32 HP / 88 Def / 172 SpA / 216 Spe

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

  • Tapu Koko is an average user of the move Defog thanks to its high Speed and ability to force switches.
  • Hidden Power Ice handles the likes of Landorus-T, Gliscor, and Garchomp.
  • Roost keeps Tapu Koko healthy and makes it a consistent Defogger, notably against Toxapex.
  • U-turn can be used over Hidden Power Ice on Leftovers variants, but not being able to touch Stealth Rock users such as Landorus-T, Gliscor, and Garchomp is a huge downside.
Set Details
========

  • Shuca Berry lets Tapu Koko stomach a hit from Ground-types it aims to remove hazards from.
  • Leftovers gives Tapu Koko some added longevity, on the other hand.
  • The EV spread makes it so Tapu Koko outspeeds Weavile, and can avoid the OHKO from Gliscor's +2 Earthquake after Stealth Rock through Shuca Berry (or unboosted Earthquake for Leftovers variants) as well as never get OHKO'd by Ash-Greninja's Water Shuriken after Stealth Rock.
  • An alternative spread of 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe is an option if you want more firepower out of Tapu Koko, as well as speed tying with opposing Tapu Koko.
Usage Tips
========

  • Try to often keep hazards off with Tapu Koko because it isn't the type of Pokémon that gets too many opportunities to switch in, at least compared to other Defoggers, in certain matches, "Defogging later" may not be a possible idea.
  • So that means going Tapu Koko into the likes of Stealth Rock Landorus-T, Gliscor, and Garchomp can pay off if they're in range of Hidden Power Ice as you'll likely force them out that way and Defog, and even if you dont't there's always Shuca Berry that can act as a safety net.
  • Don't always make aggressive plays like this though, they may become predictable.
  • When facing Toxic Spikes variants of Toxapex, it's recommended to go into Tapu Koko everytime to promptly Defog the Toxic Spikes as these hazards can be very troublesome for most types of teams Tapu Koko finds itself into, that is if Tapu Koko is your sole method of removing Toxic Spikes, of course. Be weary of Toxic + Toxic Spikes variants though, and try to get Tapu Koko regularly poisoned (not Toxic) if this is your opponent's set.
  • Ferrothorn is one of the main hazard setters Tapu Koko struggles with, so trapping it with Magnezone as soon as possible is preferred, especially on somewhat hazard weak teams.
  • Try to often keep Tapu Koko healthy if possible too, as its bulk is fairly underwheliming.
Team Options
========

  • Magnezone is a mandatory teammate as it can eliminate Ferrothorn, which would otherwise be an extremely problematic hazard setter for Tapu Koko. Magnezone also enjoys the Electric Terrain boost.
  • Grounded Poison-types such as Toxapex and Amoonguss are also helpful teammates as they make it so Tapu Koko isn't forced to switch into Toxapex every time to Defog it's Toxic Spikes, especially against Toxic + Toxic Spikes variants of Toxapex.
  • Teammates that appreciate Electric Terrain also make for great allies, examples include Mega Medicham, Mega Mawile, and Kyurem-B as their Electric-type coverage is boosted.
  • Allies like Heatran and Assault Vest Magearna greatly appreciate Gliscor, Garchomp, and Landorus-T being lured by Tapu Koko.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============

  • Choice Scarf Tapu Koko can fit on certain teams that appreciate the role compression, it checks several threatening sweepers such as Volcarona and even weakened Magearna and can surprise the likes of Mega Alakazam and other Choice Scarf users. However it doesn't do much outside of that.
  • A set with Fairium Z, Calm Mind, Thunderbolt, Dazzling Gleam, and Hidden Power Fire can be a nice fit on a handful of teams allowing Tapu Koko to get past some of its would-be-checks, but usually the immediate and raw power of Choice Specs is far preferred, especially as Tapu Koko is moreso an offensive pivot as opposed to a wallbreaker.
  • Thunder is an option for rain teams willing to use Tapu Koko, especially on the Choice Specs set.
  • Grass Knot can be run if luring Gastrodon and Hippowdon is needed, but Tapu Koko has plenty of better options and only four moveslots.
Checks and Counters
===================

**Bulky Grass-types**: Grass-types are Tapu Koko's biggest enemies. The likes of Tapu Bulu, Ferrothorn, and Amoonguss don't take much from most Tapu Koko sets and can do a quite a number of damage in return. Special mention to Tangrowth and Amoonguss as their Regenerator ability makes it so they regain back all the health from that Choice Specs Volt Switch.

**Bulky Dragon-types**: Mega Latias, Mega Latios, Mega Charizard X, Kyurem-B and Kyurem don't really mind any Tapu Koko set lacking Dazzling Gleam. Though they can get somewhat worn down by multiple Volt Switches, especially from Choice Specs variants.

**Ground-types**: The likes of Gastrodon, Hippowdon, and Excadrill put a hard stop to nearly all Tapu Koko sets, only akward coverage lets it get past them. Landorus-T, Gliscor, Garchomp, and Mega Garchomp can also switch into an Electric move with the correct prediction and take advantage of Tapu Koko from there, be it because Tapu Koko is choice locked or Landorus-T is Choice Scarf, but they despite Hidden Power Ice and can even be OHKOed depending on Tapu Koko's set.

**Faster Revenge Killers**: Tapu Koko is quite fast, but the likes of Ash-Greninja, Mega Lopunny, Mega Alakazam, and every relevant Choice Scarf user outspends it. Most can't KO in one hit, but Tapu Koko is still prone to getting weakened so they often force Tapu Koko out.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[<username1>, <userid1>]]
- Quality checked by: [[<username1>, <userid1>], [<username2>, <userid2>], [<username3>, <userid3>]]
- Grammar checked by: [[<username1>, <userid1>], [<username2>, <userid2>]]
 
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DKM

Are you feeling nervous? Are you having fun?
is a Social Media Contributoris a Contributor to Smogon
Hey, just wanted to leave some feedback :]

Specs:

Dazzling Gleam, on the other hand hits Dragon-types such as the Mega Eon Duo, Hydreigon, and Kommo-o.
I think Kyurem (and maybe Kyurem-B) are noteworthy targets, they're arguably better than Kommo-o and aren't weak to HP Ice.

Hidden Power Fire is an option alongside Dazzling Geam as it roasts Ferrothorn and Excadrill and Dazzling Gleam already covers most of the Ground-types, however, missing out on Gliscor is undesirable, same goes for not being able to OHKO Landorus-T from full.
It also does a fair bit more to M-Sciz even in terrain.


Dual screens:

U-turn makes Tapu Koko an excellent pivot and gives teammates momentum and setup opportunities.
It doesnt usually give momentum since this set doesnt threaten anything out, being fast also means u never get a slow uturn. I'd just say it allows koko to bring teammates in.

Magearna, Kommo-o, Manaphy, Thundurus, Mega Gyarados, and Hawlucha are all notable picks.
Magearna, Kommo-o (assuming its bdrum) and Lucha also appreciate terrain :D


Z-Wild charge:

Taunt enables Tapu Koko to shut down passive walls such as Zapdos and Clefable.
It also stops defensive setup sweepers like Mlati and Reuni.


Other Options:

Choice Scarf Tapu Koko can fit on certain teams that appreciate the role compression, it checks several threatening sweepers such as Volcarona and even weakened Magearna. However it doesn't do much outside of that.
It also outspeeds and suprises Zam and opposing scarfers, which I find more useful than checking Volc and Magearna.

A set with Calm Mind, Thunderbolt, Dazzling Gleam, and Hidden Power Fire can be a nice fit on a handful of teams allowing Tapu Koko to get past some of its would-be-checks, but usually the immediate and raw power of Choice Specs is far preferred, especially as Tapu Koko is moreso an offensive pivot as opposed to a wallbreaker.
I'd specify with Fairium Z, that's the best item from my experience.


Feel free to implement anything you agree with n_n
 
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It also outspeeds and suprises Zam and opposing scarfers, which I find more useful than checking Volc and Magearna.
While this is true and you should mention it, it definitely should not be worded like the main appeal to the set is to outspeed Mega Alakazam and other Choice Scarf users.

As usual, comments in purple things to remove in red
[OVERVIEW]

  • Thanks to its powerful Thunderbolt and Volt Switches, Tapu Koko is capable of pressuring pretty much any Pokémon that doesn't resist Electric-type moves and Volt Switch out on Grass- and Dragon-types. The way this sentence flows currently is extremely weird, and as a result, it doesn't really get the point across immediately.
  • Due to the fact that most prominent Ground-types are quad weak to Hidden Power Ice, Tapu Koko can get rid of Electric-type immunities by itself most of the time with correct prediction and pose a threat to unprepared teams.
  • Tapu Koko also offers a plethora of unique and viable supportive options, such as Electric Terrain itself, Reflect, Light Screen, and Defog, all of which can be very helpful to teammates. Mention its resistance to Flying.
  • Tapu Koko can also surprise and lure its usual checks with a Z-Wild Charge set. What usual checks specifically? Also usual checks to what set?
  • A lightning fast speed tier is also a strong positive as Tapu Koko, as it can pivot into and outspeed several threatening Pokémon such as Mega Medicham and Kartana.
  • However, Tapu Koko can be pretty much dead-weight in certain matchups. Grass-types with Regenerator such as Tangrowth and Amoonguss don't mind anything Tapu Koko can throw at them and Ground-types that aren't quad weak to Hidden Power Ice, such as Excadrill and Hippowdon can also be extreme annoyances.
  • On the other hand, Tapu Koko's more supportive sets are quite weak and pose even less of a threat to prepared teams. That's not how you use on the other hand.
  • On a similar manner Z-Wild Charge sets are also vulnerable to the ever common Grass- and Dragon-types.
[SET]
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Volt Switch
move 2: Thunderbolt
move 3: Hidden Power Ice
move 4: Roost / Dazzling Gleam
item: Choice Specs
ability: Electric Surge
nature: Timid
evs: 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

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

  • Volt Switch allows Tapu Koko to pivot out against Grass- and Dragon-types, weakening them provided they lack Regenerator.
  • Hidden Power Ice is very important to target the likes of Gliscor and Landorus-T. Mention Garchomp.
  • Roost keeps Tapu Koko healthy and lets it continuously be able to pivot into Pokémon it's supposed to. This definitely needs a lot more content than what it currently contains, because it's not obvious why you'd run Roost on a Choice item user at all.
  • Dazzling Gleam, on the other hand hits Dragon-types such as the Mega Eon Duo, Hydreigon, and Kommo-o.:pikuh:
  • Hidden Power Fire is an option alongside Dazzling Geam as it roasts Ferrothorn and Excadrill and Dazzling Gleam already covers most of the Ground-types, however, missing out on Gliscor is undesirable, same goes for not being able to OHKO Landorus-T from full. :pikuh:
  • Defog also works on the last slot as an emergency net on teams very weak to hazards. This set should probably not be your sole Defogger though. It shouldn't. Period.
Set Details
========

  • Choice Specs amps Tapu Koko's power to respectable levels, letting it be much more of a threat to specially defensive Pokémon that don't resist Electric, such as Mega Tyranitar and Heatran, who would otherwise be capable of stomaching hits much better.
Usage Tips
========

  • Prediction is quite important, especially for variants without Roost. I disagree, you really want to use Volt Switch ~80% of the time, which doesn't requires prediction. All you have to do to achieve that is click Hidden Power Ice once.
  • If possible try to get rid of Ground-types with Hidden Power Ice to make Volt Switch freer.
  • If your opponent packs a sturdier Ground-type try to use Tapu Koko as more of a defensive pivot instead, switching into the likes of Tornadus-T and Mega Medicham Toxapex, as its virtually impossible for Tapu Koko to break past the likes of Gastrodon, Excadrill, and Hippowdon without the ideal coverage move.
  • Even if Tapu Koko has a better matchup, it's still fine to pivot into threats it soft checks, just don't be too reckless, as getting it worn down could be quite detrimental.
  • I'd add something about being wary of attacking Protect users like Celesteela and Mega Sableye.
Team Options
========

  • Strong wallbreakers that can take advantage of Grass- and Dragon-types, such as Mega Mawile, Kyurem-B, Mega Medicham, and Calm Mind Magearna greatly appreciate the opportunity Tapu Koko gives them with Volt Switch. All four also appreciate getting their Electric-type coverage boosted by Tapu Koko's terrain.
  • While Tapu Koko often gets opportunities to switch in on a match, teammates that provide it VoltTurn support are always welcomed too, allowing it to consistently pressure Grass- and Dragon-types without Regenerator. Assault Vest Magearna and Defensive Flynium Z Landorus-T are notable examples. You could also mention that Flyinium Z Landorus-T takes care of Grass-types pretty well.
  • Teammates that can lure Tapu Koko's typical checks are always welcomed. Bloom Doom Heatran and Energy Ball Assault Vest Magearna take on Gastrodon and Hippowdon.
  • In a similar manner, Ash-Greninja ands well as Ferrothorn make wonderful allies as their Spikes helps mitigate Tangrowth and Amoonguss's Regenerator recovery. Ash-Greninja is also a really notable partner in another regard as together they can overwhelm defensive Grass-types. I'd add Protean Greninja as well.
[SET]
name: Dual Screens
move 1: Reflect
move 2: Light Screen
move 3: Taunt
move 4: U-turn
item: Light Clay
ability: Electric Surge
nature: Jolly
evs: 248 HP / 8 Def / 252 Spe

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

  • Taunt prevents Defoggers from removing Tapu Koko's screens and teammates' hazards as well. Can also be useful to deter setup.
  • U-turn makes Tapu Koko an excellent pivot and gives teammates momentum and setup opportunities.
I know there's not a lot to say, but there definitely needs to be a Set Details section. Just say why max HP or Light Clay or something.

Usage Tips
========

  • Tapu Koko should be sent out early in the game, preferably after your lead sets up their hazards, but if your opponent has a Fake Out user such as Mega Lopunny or Mega Medicham leading with Tapu Koko is surely reasonable.
  • Another situation in which leading with Tapu Koko is clever is to block hazards with Taunt if your team lacks hazard removal.
  • Mention that you shouldn't let Tapu Koko get worn down easily, because you'll probably find situations where you want to set up screens multiple times throughout the match.
Team Options
========

  • Set up sweepers greatly appreciate Tapu Koko's support with Dual Screens to get more opportunities to set up and all.
  • Magearna, Kommo-o, Manaphy, Thundurus, Mega Gyarados, and Hawlucha are all notable picks.
  • Lead Pokémon such as Excadrill and Landorus-T also pair well with Tapu Koko, getting stealth rock up in a majority of matchups and letting teammates wreak havoc from there.
[SET]
name: Z-Wild Charge
move 1: Wild Charge
move 2: Hidden Power Ice
move 3: Taunt
move 4: U-turn
item: Electrium Z
ability: Electric Surge
nature: Naive
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

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

  • Wild Charge can be upgraded to a devastatingly strong Gigavolt Havoc that hits would-be-Tapu Koko-switch-ins such as Chansey and Assault Vest Magearna for massive damage.
  • Hidden Power makes it so Tapu Koko isn't completely walled by Ground-types such as Landorus-T, Garchomp, and Gliscor.
  • Taunt enables Tapu Koko to shut down passive walls such as Zapdos and Clefable.
  • U-turn lets Tapu Koko pivot out as Grass-types that wall it switch in. It's preferred over Volt Switch because this Tapu Koko is more physically inclined and U-turn also helps against Ground-types that aren't weak to Hidden Power Ice, such as Excadrill and Hippowdon.
Set Details
========

  • A Naive nature is preferred over Hasty so Tapu Koko can pivot into moves such as Mega Medicham's High Jump Kick and better take the likes of Mega Scizor's Bullet Punch and Hawlucha's High Jump Kick. A Jolly nature is undesirable as it makes it so Hidden Power Ice misses out the 2HKO on HP invested Landorus-T.
Usage Tips
========

  • Be careful not to reveal your set. U-turn and Hidden Power Ice damage indicate your Tapu Koko is invested into physical attack, and that gives away you're Z-Wild Charge. So then what do I do?
  • Revealing your set is especially bad here because this set's main gimmick is to lure Tapu Koko's typical checks.
  • Watch out for any Ground-types before using up your Z-move, even though risky, your opponent may still pivot them into Tapu Koko.
  • If Tapu Koko has a rough matchup against the opposing team, Taunt can be used on targets such as Ferrothorn to prevent it from getting up hazards and Garchomp or Magearna to prevent them from setting up, however these plays are quite risky so make sure to weight in the risk and reward.
Team Options
========

  • Special Attackers that appreciate Tapu Koko luring Chansey and Assault Vest Magearna in general are great allies.
  • This is even more notable on rain teams as Tapu Koko would be expected to run Thunder on these teams, but luring Assault Vest Magearna and Chansey opens up plety of opportunities for the likes of Ash-Greninja and Kingdra.
  • Other notable Pokémon that appreciate the absense of Assault Vest Magearna, Chansey, and even Specially Defensive Jirachi are Tapu Lele, Magearna, and Mega Alakazam. I'm not particularly sold on the Jirachi mention, Thunderbolt is doing a lot so it's not really ideal anyway.
  • Flying-types such as Tornadus-T and Hawlucha can punish and take advantage of the Grass-types that annoy this Tapu Koko set.
  • Same goes with Fire-types like Heatran and Mega Charizard X.
  • Teammates like the aforementioned Magearna, as well as the likes of Mega Mawile, Mega Medicham, and Kyurem-B greatly appreciate their Electric-type coverage getting boosted too.
[SET]
name: Defog
move 1: Defog
move 2: Thunderbolt
move 3: Hidden Power Ice
move 4: Roost
item: Shuca Berry / Leftovers
ability: Electric Surge
nature: Timid
EVs: 32 HP / 88 Def / 172 SpA / 216 Spe

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

  • Why would I use Defog on Tapu Koko? Mention why Tapu Koko is an ok Defogger.
  • Hidden Power Ice handles the likes of Landorus-T, Gliscor, and Garchomp.
  • Roost keeps Tapu Koko healthy and makes it a consistent Defogger. Against?
  • U-turn is a potential option over Hidden Power Ice, but not being able to touch Stealth Rock users such as Landorus-T, Gliscor, and Garchomp is a huge downside. Say that this also defeats Shuca Berry's purpose here or in Set Details.
Set Details
========

  • Shuca Berry lets Tapu Koko stomach a hit from Ground-types it aims to remove hazards from.
  • Leftovers gives Tapu Koko some added longevity, on the other hand.
  • The EV spread makes it so Tapu Koko outspeeds Weavile, and can avoid the OHKO from Gliscor's +2 Earthquake after Stealth Rock through Shuca Berry (or unboosted Earthquake for Leftovers variants) as well as never get OHKO'd by Ash-Greninja's Water Shuriken after Stealth Rock.
  • An alternative spread of 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe is an option if you want more firepower out of Tapu Koko, as well as speed tying with opposing Tapu Koko.
Usage Tips
========

  • Try to often keep hazards off with Tapu Koko because it isn't the type of Pokémon that gets too many opportunities to switch in, at least compared to other Defoggers, in certain matches, "Defogging later" may not be a possible idea.
  • So that means going Tapu Koko into the likes of Stealth Rock Landorus-T, Gliscor, and Garchomp can pay off if they're in range of Hidden Power Ice as you'll likely force them out that way and Defog, and even if you dont't there's always Shuca Berry that can act as a safety net.
  • Don't always make aggressive plays like this though, they may become predictable.
  • When facing Toxic Spikes variants of Toxapex, it's recommended to go into Tapu Koko everytime to promptly Defog the Toxic Spikes as these hazards can be very troublesome for most types of teams Tapu Koko finds itself into, that is if Tapu Koko is your sole method of removing Toxic Spikes, of course. I'd add something about being wary of Toxic + Toxic Spikes variants.
  • Ferrothorn is one of the main hazard setters Tapu Koko struggles with, so trapping it with Magnezone as soon as possible is preferred, especially on somewhat hazard weak teams.
  • Try to often keep Tapu Koko healthy if possible too, as its bulk is fairly underwheliming.
Team Options
========

  • Magnezone is a mandatory teammate as it can eliminate Ferrothorn, which would otherwise be an extremely problematic hazard setter for Tapu Koko. Magnezone also enjoys the Electric Terrain boost.
  • Grounded Poison-types such as Toxapex and Amoonguss are also helpful teammates as they make it so Tapu Koko isn't forced to switch into Toxapex every time to Defog it's Toxic Spikes, especially against Toxic + Toxic Spikes variants of Toxapex.
  • Teammates that appreciate Electric Terrain also make for great allies, examples include Mega Medicham, Mega Mawile, and Kyurem-B as their Electric-type coverage is boosted.
  • Mention some Pokemon that appreciate Tapu Koko's ability to lure Ground-types.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============

  • Choice Scarf Tapu Koko can fit on certain teams that appreciate the role compression, it checks several threatening sweepers such as Volcarona and even weakened Magearna. However it doesn't do much outside of that.
  • A set with Calm Mind, Thunderbolt, Dazzling Gleam, and Hidden Power Fire can be a nice fit on a handful of teams allowing Tapu Koko to get past some of its would-be-checks, but usually the immediate and raw power of Choice Specs is far preferred, especially as Tapu Koko is moreso an offensive pivot as opposed to a wallbreaker.
  • Thunder is an option for rain teams willing to use Tapu Koko, especially on the Choice Specs set.
  • Grass Knot can be run if luring Gastrodon and Hippowdon is needed, but Tapu Koko has plenty of better options and only four moveslots.
Checks and Counters
===================

**Bulky Grass-types**: Grass-types are Tapu Koko's biggest enemies. The likes of Tapu Bulu, Ferrothorn, and Amoonguss don't take much from most Tapu Koko sets and can do a quite a number of damage in return. Special mention to Tangrowth and Amoonguss as their Regenerator ability makes it so they regain back all the health from that Choice Specs Volt Switch.

**Bulky Dragon-types**: Mega Latias, Mega Latios, Mega Charizard X, Kyurem-B and Kyurem don't really mind any Tapu Koko set lacking Dazzling Gleam. Though they can get somewhat worn down by multiple Volt Switches, especially from Choice Specs variants.

**Ground-types**: The likes of Gastrodon, Hippowdon, and Excadrill put a hard stop to nearly all Tapu Koko sets, only akward coverage lets it get past them. Landorus-T, Gliscor, Garchomp, and Mega Garchomp can also switch into an Electric move with the correct prediction and take advantage of Tapu Koko from there, be it because Tapu Koko is choice locked or Landorus-T is Choice Scarf. Do explicitly mention that they're extremely prone to Hidden Power Ice.

**Faster Reenge Killers**: Tapu Koko is quite fast, but the likes of Ash-Greninja, Mega Lopunny, Mega Alakazam, and every relevant Choice Scarf user outspeed Melemele's guardian. Most can't KO in one hit, but Tapu Koko is still prone to getting weakened so they often force Tapu Koko out. :pikuh:

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[<username1>, <userid1>]]
- Quality checked by: [[<username1>, <userid1>], [<username2>, <userid2>], [<username3>, <userid3>]]
- Grammar checked by: [[<username1>, <userid1>], [<username2>, <userid2>]]
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p2

Banned deucer.
no mention of fairium z? good neutral dmg vs most of the meta, ruins things that might be trying to stomach a non boosted hp ice/gleam and gives you freedom to switch moves. for example vs rotom+landt, you are provided with a strong midground that will always leave a dent unless you get outplayed. other example of mons it hits pretty hard are mega tar, serp, bulu, both chomp forms, sand drill, zard x, bulky grounds. all of which can be very big problems to koko
 
Is it really a wise idea to run Roost on a Choiced Pokemon? I mean, it sounds like a whole momentum screw up. You switch in, Roost, and then you're forced to switch again?
 
Is it really a wise idea to run Roost on a Choiced Pokemon? I mean, it sounds like a whole momentum screw up. You switch in, Roost, and then you're forced to switch again?
If you had actually read the analysis you would know why it is run and preferred over other options. Anyway, Roost provides a lot defensively, continually allowing Tapu Koko to check Pokemon like Tornadus-T and Toxapex. It doesn't really struggle to use Roost, like you acknowledged, because it can force many switches. Furthermore, Dazzling Gleam doesn't provide a lot. Although it hits Dragon-types, most of them are pretty easy to take advantage of with Volt Switch in practice anyway. These are all reasons why Roost is often preferred, even though you are forced to switch.
 
If you had actually read the analysis you would know why it is run and preferred over other options. Anyway, Roost provides a lot defensively, continually allowing Tapu Koko to check Pokemon like Tornadus-T and Toxapex. It doesn't really struggle to use Roost, like you acknowledged, because it can force many switches. Furthermore, Dazzling Gleam doesn't provide a lot. Although it hits Dragon-types, most of them are pretty easy to take advantage of with Volt Switch in practice anyway. These are all reasons why Roost is often preferred, even though you are forced to switch.
I did read it, I just didn't completely understand because like you said, you're forced to switch.

I see. Thanks!
 
Just some thing I''d thought about for you to consider/refute
-Since Specs force switches, could defog bee considered on it?
-Assuming the reason for shuca to always have defog is because it otherwise generally outclassed by specs. If this is not the case, then I think explaining why shuca always run defog would be relevant, as past variants sometimes did not and shuca can still 1v1 4x weak ice weak mons without defog.
-Is there a reason the 20 HP / 252 SpA / 20 SpD / 216 Spe EVS are not mentioned or used anymore?
- the evs for Z-wild charge could be changed to EVs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 36 SpA / 216 Spe to maximize reliability on a gliscor 2HKO, perhaps
-I don't think clefable is the best example for a taunt target as moonblast has high chance to 2HKO naive koko and after a bit of chip koko can use gigavolt havoc to ko clefable.
-Brave bird I feel should either be listed in OO as an option to hit grass types or, if its is not considered to be a legitimate option, to be advised against, as timid kart was(as players not as familiar with koko may be interested in brave bird as an option for the aforementioned reason.)
-Is there a reason that roost and defog are not options on Z Wild charge? It can still force switches to defog and can avoid being worn down and put into range by attacks like hawlucha's HJK or Scizor's Bullet punch
-In the Checks and Counters sections regarding wearing down dragons, I think its worth a mention that u-turn wears down the latis quicker than volt switch.
 
Since Specs force switches, could defog bee considered on it?
Defog also works on the last slot as an emergency net on teams very weak to hazards. This set shouldn't be your sole Defogger though.
it's here already, just not slashed on the main set.
Assuming the reason for shuca to always have defog is because it otherwise generally outclassed by specs. If this is not the case, then I think explaining why shuca always run defog would be relevant, as past variants sometimes did not and shuca can still 1v1 4x weak ice weak mons without defog.
yeah that's mostly the point
Is there a reason the 20 HP / 252 SpA / 20 SpD / 216 Spe EVS are not mentioned or used anymore?
it's kind of "in between" the current spread and 252/252 so i don't see much point in mentioning it.
the evs for Z-wild charge could be changed to EVs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 36 SpA / 216 Spe to maximize reliability on a gliscor 2HKO, perhaps
not sure about this because tying with other tapu koko is very important and gliscor is 2hkoed after stealth rock already, but i'll bring it up, ty
I don't think clefable is the best example for a taunt target as moonblast has high chance to 2HKO naive koko and after a bit of chip koko can use gigavolt havoc to ko clefable.
nice catch, i'll edit it promptly!
Brave bird I feel should either be listed in OO as an option to hit grass types or, if its is not considered to be a legitimate option, to be advised against, as timid kart was(as players not as familiar with koko may be interested in brave bird as an option for the aforementioned reason.)
not sure about this, brave bird is really bad on it.
Is there a reason that roost and defog are not options on Z Wild charge? It can still force switches to defog and can avoid being worn down and put into range by attacks like hawlucha's HJK or Scizor's Bullet punch
never seen any of these i think, but i will bring it up yeah.
In the Checks and Counters sections regarding wearing down dragons, I think its worth a mention that u-turn wears down the latis quicker than volt switch.
specs volt switch does roughly the same but fair point, i will edit this too!

ty for your suggestions
 
it's here already, just not slashed on the main set.
My bad.
it's kind of "in between" the current spread and 252/252 so i don't see much point in mentioning it.
The purpose of the set was to always avoid getting ko'd by mega latios after 1 round of rocks, but I understand if speed tying other kokos is more important.
not sure about this, brave bird is really bad on it.
Hence why i suggested you perhaps advise against it if not consdiering it a good move choice.


Also something I had forgotten to ask about was the lack of mention of electrium z or magnet on defog koko. I undertand why shuca/lefovers are the main items, allowing koko to defog more consistently, but the latter is still common on ladder kokos and the former still sees a bit of usage on on non-Z-Wild charge sets. Both these item let koko pick up kos more easily, and I think they may be worth a mention in set details.
 
I feel Brave Bird should be considered on the Wild Charge set over HP Ice especially if you already have an answer to ground types. It gets as much usage as dual screens on most of the move set usage statistics (just pointing out that fact and not that it should be mentioned in the analysis) and it allows it to take out grass types such as Venusaur and Amoongus who it would otherwise be unable to touch.

It should also be noted that running a full physical set would allow it to run a Jolly nature
 
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I feel Brave Bird should be considered on the Wild Charge set over HP Ice especially if you already have an answer to ground types. It gets as much usage as dual screens on most of the move set usage statistics (just pointing out that fact and not that it should be mentioned in the analysis) and it allows it to take out grass types such as Venusaur and Amoongus who it would otherwise be unable to touch.

It should also be noted that running a full physical set would allow it to run a Jolly nature
yikes
 
Is Z Thunderbolt worth mentioning as another option for the Specs set?
No, because Tapu Koko's Choice Specs set plays vastly different from any other set. This includes Electrium Z. If anything, it should be mentioned in the Defog sets' Set Details, but in all honesty, I don't think it's really worth mentioning at all - Tapu Koko gets much more out of other items, and its team does too if it doesn't elect to use a Z-Move.
 
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No, because Tapu Koko's Choice Specs set plays vastly different from any other set. This includes Electrium Z. If anything, it should be mentioned in the Defog sets' Set Details, but in all honesty, I don't think it's really worth mentioning at all - Tapu Koko gets much more out of other items, and its team does too if it doesn't elect to use a Z-Move.
The Special Z set is pretty popular. Electrium Z is Koko's second most used item in the OU metagame according to the usage statistics
 

Leo

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MPL Champion
that doesn't resist Electric-type moves
doesn't resist or is immune to*
  • Taunt prevents Defoggers from removing Tapu Koko's screens and teammates' hazards as well. Can also be useful to deter setup.
  • U-turn helps Tapu Koko bring teammates in.
add Tbolt here, having an attacking move can come in clutch in some scenarios and it's used enough to warrant at least a moves mention imo
but if your opponent has a Fake Out user such as Mega Lopunny or Mega Medicham leading with Tapu Koko is surely reasonable.
In this scenario you wouldn't lead Koko either because you take damage for no reason and you haven't upped yet so your screens are gonna go to waste
Thundurus
not him
Revealing your set is especially bad here because this set's main gimmick is to lure Tapu Koko's typical checks.
I would cut this entirely, getting a surprise Z off is nice but its not really a lure and even if you dont get the surprise hit off its still a very good and durable pivot
Tapu Koko is an average user of the move Defog
awkward word choice
  • Teammates that appreciate Electric Terrain also make for great allies, examples include Mega Medicham, Mega Mawile, and Kyurem-B as their Electric-type coverage is boosted.
  • Allies like Heatran and Assault Vest Magearna greatly appreciate Gliscor, Garchomp, and Landorus-T being lured by Tapu Koko.
Allies x2

2/3
 
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