Tentacruel (BW2 Revamp) [QC: 3/3] [GP: 2/2]

Dark Fallen Angel

Dark Fallen Angel

FIDDLESTICKS IS ALSO GOOD ON MID!
I had to create a new thread because I can't edit DarkBlazeR's post. The overview was unchanged. Do you like the C&Cs section? When I was writing it, I thought it was too high.

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Tentacruel

[Overview]

<p>Despite what the ubiquity of its pre-evolution in the wild may suggest, Tentacruel is a highly valued Pokémon in the OU metagame, being a stellar defensive Rapid Spin user. Unlike other defensive spinners, Tentacruel is particularly resistant to being worn down, as it can take advantage of rain support to get 12.5% healing per turn with Rain Dish and Leftovers combined. One of the major selling points of Tentacruel is that it can beat any spinner under rain with a combination of Substitute and Toxic; this includes Sableye, and due to this, Tentacruel is an extremely good spinner to use on rain teams. Alternatively, Tentacruel can use Toxic Spikes, or it can tank hits with its good Special Defense and semi-unique Water/Poison typing. However, its gelatinous exterior is vulnerable to physical assaults due to an unfortunately low Defense stat for a support Pokemon. It is also encumbered by a few weaknesses to common attacks such as Earthquake, Thunderbolt, and Psyshock, which somewhat limit its defensive potential. Nonetheless, Tentacruel remains the Rapid Spin user of choice for many teams, whether they are utilizing rain or not.</p>

[SET]
name: Support
move 1: Rapid Spin
move 2: Toxic / Toxic Spikes
move 3: Scald
move 4: Protect / Substitute
item: Black Sludge
ability: Rain Dish
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 236 Def / 20 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>This set excels at spinning away hazards for both balanced and stall teams alike. Unlike other users of Rapid Spin, Tentacruel is able to absorb Toxic Spikes, facilitating its work as a spinner. Tentacruel isn't limited to spinning either&mdash;it can spread status and stall out many threats.</p>

<p>Although Tentacruel has access to Toxic Spikes, Toxic is still the preferable move. This is because many teams benefit more from the immediate poison, and there are also many Flying-types and Levitate Pokémon that can only be poisoned by Toxic. Toxic also has other advantages, such as allowing Tentacruel to consistently defeat most relevant spinblockers in rain. Nevertheless, Toxic Spikes is still a viable option, and Tentacruel has a niche as one of the few viable users of this move. Toxic Spikes is preferred on stall teams, or when using a sweeper that benefits from certain walls being crippled, particularly those with Natural Cure.</p>

<p>The third slot goes to Scald, the best STAB move that Tentacruel can run. It has the same power under rain as a Hydro Pump outside of rain and has a 30% chance to burn the target, discouraging Pokemon such as Gyarados and Dragonite from switching in, even though they resist the move. The move in the fourth slot depends on your preference. Protect is the main choice, as it allows Tentacruel to stall for more Leftovers + Rain Dish recovery. Protect also has the ability to scout Choice users and stopSubDisable Gengar from ruining your day. Another good option is Substitute, which blocks status and Leech Seed, and most stall teams typically have trouble breaking Tentacruel's Substitutes. When using Substitute, remember to only use it with Toxic, and not Toxic Spikes.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>The EV spread balances Tentacruel's defenses while maintaining enough Speed to outrun max Speed Adamant Breloom and max Speed Timid Magnezone. You may also run another spread of 252 HP / 240 Def / 16 Spe with a Timid nature, especially if Tentacruel is using Substitute and Toxic. This spread allows Tentacruel to outspeed Adamant Dragonite and Gyarados and Toxic them before they can attack or set up with Dragon Dance. It is wise to remember that many Dragonite run Lum Berry, however.</p>

<p>Instead of Substitute or Protect, Tentacruel can run a secondary attack. Keep in mind that this will have an negative impact on its defensive potential. Ice Beam severely dents Dragon-types on the switch-in, while also hitting Breloom. Sludge Bomb still hits Breloom and Celebi hard&mdash;actually, harder than Ice Beam. However, it has poor coverage and its chance to poison clashes with Scald's chance to burn. On sun teams, Scald can be replaced by Hidden Power Fire, as it 2HKOes Ferrothorn and OHKOes Scizor (if sun-boosted, of course). However, it is required to run Ice Beam in tandem with it, as otherwise Tentacruel will be complete fodder for Dragon-types. Remember to adjust the EVs to 252 HP / 232 Def / 24 Spe if using Hidden Power Fire, due to the reduction in Speed IVs. Blizzard is another option if Tentacruel is used in hail, but passive damage compromises Tentacruel's longevity. Hydro Pump seems like a viable option over Scald for more power, but low PP and accuracy make it an unappealing option for such a set.</p>

<p>As you may have guessed, Tentacruel is best used on rain teams. Tentacruel has no other form of recovery outside of Leftovers, so it greatly appreciates rain activating its ability. For this reason, Politoed is Tentacruel's best partner. Politoed also benefits from the fact that Tentacruel can absorb Toxic Spikes. If you run Toxic Spikes, you want to pair Tentacruel with Pokemon that take advantage of it, such as SubCM Latias, Volcarona, and Taunt Tornadus-T. Gothitelle is a nice partner for Tentacruel that use Toxic Spikes, since it can trap and KO grounded Poison-types that can absorb them. As for partners that offer defensive synergy, Ferrothorn stands out, as it can complete the trio of hazards with Stealth Rock and Spikes, can use Leech Seed, and has complimentary resistances. On sun teams, Volcarona is a decent partner, as it greatly appreciates the removal of hazards from the field and can take advantage of Toxic Spikes when it comes to breaking through special walls such as Chansey and Jellicent.</p>

<p>Teammates that can deal with the things that Tentacruel lures in the most are greatly appreciated. Mamoswine can deal with Lum Berry Dragonite, SubCM Latias, and Thundurus-T, all of which might try to set up on Tentacruel. Mamoswine also packs an Electric-type immunity, which it can use to get a free switch-in on Pokemon such as Jolteon and Zapdos.</p>

[Other Options]

<p>Tentacruel can also run an offensive Rapid Spin set holding a Life Orb with a Timid nature, an EV spread of 252 SpA / 4 Spd / 252 Spe, and a moveset ofHydro Pump, Rapid Spin, Ice Beam, and Giga Drain. The main reason why this set is not listed above is because it is mostly outclassed by Starmie, which has higher Speed and Special Attack, access to reliable recovery, and a superior offensive movepool. The surprise value gives it a small degree of viability, though.</p>

<p>Liquid Ooze may come in handy when confronting Pokemon such as Conkeldurr and Ferrothorn, which can use Drain Punch and Leech Seed, respectively. It also seems like an appealing option to use outside rain teams, since there is no rain to activate Rain Dish. The latter is still, however, the superior option. Even if you are not using a rain team, you are able to take advantage of your opponent's rain.</p>

<p>Knock Off is an interesting utility move, especially considering that it can make Leftovers users succumb quickly to poison. However, Tentacruel has trouble finding room to accommodate this move. Confuse Ray deals even more damage to the opponent if you are lucky, but Tentacruel has more consistent options to run. Magic Coat can block Taunt and status moves, but on Tentacruel, this move is rather gimmicky. Acid Spray could be used to force out opponents in fear of taking attacks at -2 Special Defense, but Tentacruel still isn't very threatening offensively.</p>

<p>Tentacruel can actually go to the sweeping route by using a SubSD set with Substitute, Swords Dance, Waterfall, and Poison Jab. Despite a paltry base 70 Attack stat, Tentacruel will still hit hard after a Swords Dance or two, and Water- and Poison-type attacks have surprisingly good coverage together. That said, despite Tentacruel's good speed and longevity under rain, it tends to be outclassed by other physical sweepers due to its shallow physical movepool and the fact that this set is often inferior to Tentacruel's other sets.</p>

[Checks and Counters]

<p>If Tentacruel is running Toxic Spikes, anything that is immune to them and doesn't take much damage from Scald can be considered a counter. Reuniclus, the Lati twins, and Hydreigon are prime examples. The former two even have super effective STAB moves to use against Tentacruel. Dragonite and Gyarados actually fit the above description, but they will hate being burned, unless they run Substitute or Lum Berry.</p>

<p>Poison Heal Breloom is one of the best counters to Tentacruel, as it benefits from poisonand can use Tentacruel as setup fodder. However, be wary that Breloom is vulnerable to Scald burns if it doesn't have its Toxic Orb activated and Toxic Spikes aren't on the field. Celebi is probably the best counter to Tentacruel, as it can simply cure itself ofstatus when switching out, takes little damage from most of Tentacruel's attacks, and can easily dispose of it with Psychic. Amoonguss absorbs Toxic Spikes and takes almost no damage from Scald, but it cannot retaliate aside from using Spore. Venusaur can also remove Toxic Spikes, set up Growth, and mitigate potential damage from Ice Beam or Scald burns with Giga Drain. Toxicroak is completely immune to everything in Tentacruel's arsenal and can remove Toxic Spikes. Even though Tentacruel resists both of Toxicroak's STABs, itmay be overpoweredafter a few boosts.</p>

<p>SubCM Latias and SubCM Keldeo aren't bothered by anything that Tentacruel can throw at them and can set up on it easily if they haven't been poisoned by Toxic Spikes or by Toxic on the switch-in. Both Alakazam and Reuniclus do not have to worry about status at all, and can easily dispose of Tentacruel with their STAB moves, although Alakazam takes decent damage from Scald due to its natural frailty. Starmie can spin away Toxic Spikes and can force Tentacruel out with the threat of STAB Psyshock or Thunder/Thunderbolt. Natural Cure means that Starmie does not have to worry about status. If Tentacruel lacks Toxic, Jellicent has no problem coming in to block Rapid Spin and can beat it 1v1 with Will-O-Wisp and Recover.</p>

<p>If the weather is sunny, Heatran takes little damage from Scald and can defeat Tentacruel with a super effective Earth Power. Speaking of Earth Power, any Pokemon with that move or Earthquake will easily force Tentacruel out. Examples of this are Ground-types such as Landorus (both Therian and Incarnate), Mamoswine, and Garchomp. However, they all loathe burns, and the first two are weak to Scald. Gastrodon can switch in on any of Tentacruel's moves (barring Toxic) and demolish it with Earthquake or Earth Power. Electric-types, like Ground-types, also have super effective STABs and can easily force Tentacruel out. Zapdos and Magnezone can withstand a Scald and retaliate with powerful Thunderbolts/Thunders. Thundurus-T will easily force Tentacruel out, which may give it the perfect opportunity to set up a Nasty Plot or Agility. However, Thundurus-T has difficulty switching in on Scald or Toxic; the former does heavy damage, and the latter shortens its lifespan even further. SubDisable Gengar is immune to everything Tentacruel has bar Scald and can spinblock. Once it has a Substitute under its belt, it can disable Scald and Shadow Ball Tentacruel to death. A smart player can get around this by using Protect, though. Gothitelle can switch in on Tentacruel with minimal risk, trap it with Shadow Tag, and OHKO with Psyshock or Psychic. Dugtrio can also do the same with Arena Trap and Earthquake, but it needs Tentacruel to be slightly weakened, and even with Focus Sash, it cannot really switch in on Tentacruel's Scald, because if it is burned, Dugtrio loses.</p>
 
And for my next trick, I'm going to make a bunch of grammatical errors...Disappear!!

But I couldn't manage the same for the random underlining. Just ignore it all, please-it's no big deal.

[Overview]¶

<p>Despite what the ubiquity of its pre-evolution in the wild may suggest, Tentacruel is a highly valuabled Pokémon in the OU metagame as a defensive Rapid Spin user. Unlike oIn ther defensive sp rainners, Tentacruel is particularly stubborn to being worn down as it can take advantage of rain support to getrecovers 12.5% healingof its HP per turn with Rain Dish and Leftovers combined. When Tentacruel isn't required, giving it a resistance to being worn down that other defensive spin away hazards, itners sorely lack. Tentacruel can also effectively spread status throughout the opponent's team by means ofwith Toxic/Toxic Spikes and Scald, and tank hits thanks to solid HP and Special Defense stats, and a unique typing that grants it a plethora of resistances.However, due to its gelatinous exteriorexceptionally low Defense, Tentacruel is vulnerable to Pphysical assaults due to, an exceptionally low Defense stat d its unfor a support Pokemon. It is also hounded by a fewate weaknesses to common attackmoves such as Earthquake, Thunderbolt and Psyshock, which somewhaand Thunderbolt limit its defensive potentialy. Nonetheless, Tentacruel remains the Rapid Spin user of choice for many teams, whether they are utilising rain or notherwise.</p>¶

[SET COMMENTS]¶

<p>This set excels in being capable of spinning away hazards for both balanced and stall teams alike. Unlike other users of Rapid Spin, Tentacruel is able to absorb Toxic Spikes, facilitating its work as a spinner. Tentacruel isn't limited to spinning either -, as it can spread status and stall out many threats.</p>¶

<p>Although Tentacruel has access to Toxic Spikes, Toxic is still the preferable move. This is because many teams benefit more from the immediate P, since it allows Tentacruel to poison, plus, there are many Flying-tTypes and Levitate users that need, while allowing Tentacruel to be poisoned. Toxic also has other vantages, suchat spinblockers and provide immediate poison, while not being as allowing Tentacruelvulnerable to consistently defeat most relevant sabsorption as Toxic Spinblockers in rain. Nevertheless, Toxic Spikes is still a viable option, and Tentacruel has a niche as one of the few viable users of this move. Toxic Spikes is preferred on stall teams, or when using a sweeper that benefiteds certain walls being crippled, particularly those with Natural Cure.</p>¶

<p>The third slot goes to Scald, theTentacruel's best STAB move, withat Tentacruel can run. a 30% burn chance that discourages physical attackers from switching inIt has the same p, and a Base Power as a STAB Hydro Pump outside ofthat, in rain, and his as a 30% chance to burn the target, discouraging thistrongs like Gyarados and Dragonite from switching-in, even though neutral-weathey resist the mover Hydro Pump.
As for tThe fourth slot, it iss wide open for choices.Protect is the main onepreferred, as it allow Tentacruel to stall for more Leftovscouts Choice users + Rain , blocks SubDish recovery, essentialy giving it 25% recovery for free when healingable Gengar, and stalls forom the previous turn is also taken into account. Plus it has the advantsidual damage of scouting Choice users, Rand stopping SubDisable Gengar from ruining your day. Another good option ish+Leftovers recovery. Substitute, which can be used to blocks status and Leech Seed, and most stall teams typically have trouble breaking Tentacruel's Substitutes. When using Substitute, remember to only use it with Toxic, and not Toxic Spikes.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]¶

<p>The EV spread balances Tentacruel's defenses, while mantaining enough Speed to outrun max Speed Adamant Breloom, and max Speed Timid Magnezone. You may also run anotherA spread of 252 HP / 240 Def / 16 Spe with a Timid nature is viable, especially if Tentacruel is using Substitute and Toxic. This spread allows Tentacruel to outspeed Adamant Dragonite/Gyarados and Toxic them before they can attack or set up Dragon Dance. It is wise to remember thatalthough many Dragonite runs hold a Lum Berry; take care of this fact.</p>¶


<p>Instead of Substitute or Protect, Tentacruel can run a secondary attack. Keep in mind that this will have an negative impact on its, swapping defensive potentialfor offense. Ice Beam severely damagents Dragon-types on the switch-in, while hitting Breloom and Celebi. Sludge Bomb still hits Breloom and Celebi hard - actually, harder than Ice Beam. Howe, but giver, it has poor coverage and its chance to Poison conflicts with Scald's chance to burn with its chance to poison.Tentacruel can also use Blizzard on a Hail team. On sun teams, Scald can be replaced bywith Hiden Power Fire, as it 2HKOes Ferrothorn and OHKOes Scizor (if sun boosted, of course). However, it is required to rthe sun. Ice Beam in tas highly recommendem wid if you go th is route, as otherwise Tentacruel will beis complete foddersetup bait for dragons. Tentacruel can also use Blizzard on a Hail team. On sun teams, Scald can be replaced bywith Hidden Power Fire, as it 2HKOes Ferrothorn and OHKOes Scizor (if sun boosted, of course). However, it is required to rthe sun. Ice Beam in tas highly recommendem wid if you go this route, as otherwise Tentacruel will beis complete foddersetup bait for dragons. RemembIf running Hidden Power to adjust theFire, an EVspread tof 252 HP / 232 Def / 24 Spe if using Hidden Power Fire,s recommended due to the reduction in Speed IVs. Blizzard is another option if Tentacruel is used on Hail, but passive damage compomises Tentacruel's lreductiongevity. Hydro Pump seems likeis an option over Scald for more power; however, but its low PP and accuracy make it an unappealing choption for such a set.</p>¶
<p>As you may see, Tentacruel is best used on rain teams., with rain activating Rain Dish to give Tentacruel has no recovery outside of Leftovers, so it greatly appreciates rain actvatmaking its Rain Dish ability. For this reason, Politoed its the best partner. Politoed also benefits from the fact that Tentacruel can absorb Toxic Spikes. If you run Toxic Spikes, you want toshould pair Tentacruel with Pokémon that take advantage of ithem, such as SubCM Latias, QD Volcarona, Taunt Tornadus-T, etc. Gothitelle is a nice partner for Tentacruel that use Toxic Spikes Tentacruel, since it can trap and KO grounded Poison-typToxic Spikes that can absorb them. As for partners that offerers. Ferrothorn is a great defensive sypartnergy, Ferrothorn stands out, as it can complete the trifecta of hazards withsupplying Stealth Rock and, Spikes, can use Leech Seed, and has complimentary resistances. On sun teams, Volcarona is a decent partner, as it greatly appreciates the removal of hazards from the field, and can take advantage of Toxic Spikes when it comes to breaking through special walls like Chansey/Jellicent.</p>¶

<p>Teammates that can deal . Mamoswith the things that Tentacruel lures in the most are greatly appreciood teammated. Mamoswine, as it can deal with Lum Berry Dragonite, SubCM Latias, and Thundurus-T, all of whom may try to set up on Tentacruel. Mamoswine also packhas an Electric-type immunity, which it can use to get a free switch-in o in Pokémon such as Jolteon and ZapdoElectric-Types.</p>¶

[Other Options]¶

<p>Tentacruel can also run an offensive Rapid Spin set holdingthat consists of a Life Orb with a Timid Nature, and an EV spread of 252 SpA / 4 Spd / 252 Spe with a Timid Nature, and the moves Hydro Pump, Rapid Spin, Ice Beam, and Giga Drain. The main reason why this set is not listmostly outclassed above is because it is mostly outclby Starmie, which hassed by Starmie, which has higher Speed and Special Attack, acess towell as reliable recovery, and a superior offensive movepool. Thebut surprise value gives it a small degree of viability, thoughniche.</p>¶

<p>Liquid Ooze comes in handy again regards of confronting Pokémon like Conkeldurr and Ferrothorn, which may use's Drain Punch and Ferrothorn's Leech Seed, respectively. It alsoand seems like an appealing option to use outside rain teamssans Politoed, since there is no rain to activate Rain Dish. The latter is still, however, the superior option. Even if you are not u, sing a rain team,ce you are able tocan still take advantage of your opponent's rain.</p>¶

<p>Knock Off is an interesting utility move, especially considering that it can make Leftovers users succumb quickly to Poison. Howes residual damage stack up on Leftover, Tentacruel has trouble finding room to acommodate this moves users. Confuse Ray deal evenstalls more damage to the opponent if you are luckyand forces switches, but Tentacruel has more consistent options to runis unreliable. Magic Coat can block Taunt and status moves, but on Tentacruel, this move is raSubstitute is generally a superior option for the latter and the former is gimmickenerally unnecessary. Acid Spray couldan be used to force out opponents in fear of taking attacksswitches, but even against a foe with -2 Special Defense, but Tentacruel still isn't very threathening offensively.</p>¶
Checks and Counters]¶

<p>If Tentacruel is running Toxic Spikes, anything that is immune to them and doesn't take much damage from Scald can be considered a counter. Reuniclus, Lati@s, and Hydreigon are examples. T, the former two even haveing super-effective STABs to use againstfor Tentacruel. Dragonite and Gyarados actually fit on the above descriptionlso qualify, but they will hate being burned, unlesseven if they run Substitute or Lum Berry.</p>¶

<p>Poison Heal Breloom is one of the best counters to Tentacruel, as it benefits from Poison and, can use Tentacruel as setup fodder. It, and can even Spore the switch-in. However, be wary that Breloom is vulnerable to Scald burns if it doesn't have its Toxic Orb activated and Toxic Spikes aren't until it is poison the field. Celebi is probably the best counter to Tentacruel, as it can simply cures itself ofrom status when switching out, takes little damage from most of Tentacruel's attacks, and can easily dispatch of him with Psychic. Amoongus absorbs Toxic Spikes and takes almost no damage froM Scald, but it cannot do much back, aside from using Spore. Venusaur can also remove Toxic Spikes, set up Growth, and mitigate potential damage from Ice Beam or Scald burns with Giga Drain. Toxicroak is completely immune to everything in Tentacruel's arsenal, and can even remove the Toxic Spikes that Tentacruel may have set up. However, Tentacruel resists both of Toxicroak's STABs,
although with a bit of boosting, Tentacruel may be overpowered.</p>¶

<p>SubCM Latias and SubCM Keldeo aren't bothered by anything that Tentacruel can throw at them, andif they can setup on it easily, ifavoid Toxic on they haven't been poisoned by switch-in, or Toxic Spikes or by Toxic on the switch-inbeing down already. Both Alakazam and Reuniclus do not have to worry aboutignore status at all, and can easily dispatch of Tentacruel with their STAB moves, although Alakazam takes decent damage from Scald due to its natural frailness. Starmie can spin away the Toxic Spikes that Tentacruel worked so hard to get up, and can force it out with the threat of STAB Psyshock, or Thunder/Thunderbolt. Natural Cure means that Starmie does not have to worry about beingn't mind statused. If Tentacruel lacks Toxic, Jellicent has no problem coming in to block Tentacruel's Rapid Spin, and can beat it 1v1 with Will-O-Wisp and Recover.</p>¶

<p>If the current weather is sunlight, Heatran ta Any pokes little damage from Scald, and can defeat it with a super effective Earth Power or a double STAB Fire Blast. SpeEarthquaking of Earth Power, any Pokémon with that move or Earthquake will easily force Tentacruel out. Examples of this are Ground-types likesuch as Mamoswine, Landorus (both Therian-T and -Incarnate), Mamoswine, and Garchomp, can force out Tentacruel. However, they all loathe burns, and the former two are weak to Scald. If sun is up, Heatran takes little from Scald and strikes back with Earth Power. Gastrodon can take anything but Toxic and retaliate with Earth Power or Earthquake, and Dugtrio can trap and end a slightly weakened Dugtrio as long as it avoids Scald.Gastrodon can switch on any of Tentacruel's moves, barring Toxic, and demolish it with Earthquake or Earth Power. Electric-types, like Ground-types, also have super-effective STABs and can easily force Tentacruel out. Zapdos and Magnezone can withstand a Scald and paycounter back with powerful Thunderbolts/Thunders. Thundurus-T will easily force Tentacruel out, whichand may give himuse the perfect opportunity to setup a Nasty Plot or Agility.SubDisable Gengar is immune to everything Tentacruel has bar Scald, and can spinblock. Once it, has a Substitute under its belt, it can d Disable Scald, and Shadow Ball Tentacruel to death. A smart playerlthough Protect can get around this by using Protect, throughGothitelle can switch in on Tentacruel with minimal risk, trap it with Shadow Tag, and OHKO with Psyshock or Psychic. Dugtrio can also do the same with Arena Trap and Earthquake, but it needsFinally, Gothitelle can switch in on Tentacruel to be slighty weakened, and cannot really swith minimal risk, trap it witch on Tentacruel's Scald, because if it is burned, Dugtrio losesShadow Tag, and OHKO with Psyshock or Psychic.</p> ¶
Comments:

Is the first sentence really necessary? I get the message, but question if it really needs to be there. Is "its gelatinous exterior" necessary either?
If I'm not using rain, i'm not using Tentacruel either. I may be in the minority here, but i'm pretty sure Forretress or Starmie are better without consistent Rain Dish healing. (And even Donphan is a nice check to Terrakion/Weakened dragons.
I don't think teams benefit that much from immediate poison>Toxic Spikes;Toxic can't be absorbed later, and it beats spinblockers, which is why it's better.
If you're going to go deep into each moveslot, at least say why Rapid Spin's there, even though we know already
How is the fourth slot "open for choices"? It's got two. Maybe throw in the later mentioned attacks in here?
Does HP fire 2hitko ferro outside of the sun?
Tentacruel is already heavy setup bait for dragons. Lumnite needs to be burned twice, as does Lum Haxorus. CM Latis hate Toxic more, and Chomp carries a Yache Berry anyhow. So it's non-Lum haxorus, and SubSD Garchomp, which you can live with.
Blizzard's now after Sludge Bomb, since you just mentioned what Ice Beam does. It's not necessary to say Tenta's worn down by hail either, whether or not he's good on hail is its own discussion.
Is surf really going to go unmentioned? Hydro pump's already there and all.
You mention ferro as a defensive partner;expand on complimentary resistances and pokemon it handles. And list more than one defensive partner, please.
"Teammates that can deal with the things that Tentacruel lures in the most are greatly appreciated". True of any pokemon that isn't broken ever.
Mamo doesn't really deal that well with SubCM latias-Icicle Spear's used 1/8th of the time, and otherwise it just gets a free pulse, then either finishes him while taking a shard or takes him down the next time.
Mamo is neutral to heat wave and resists HP ice. Nice for electric-types.
Celebi can hit tenta with earth power too, and heal bell status.
Toxicroak also sets up on tentacruel something fierce. So he's beating tenta easily, regardless of the STAB resists. (more importantly, he resist ice punch).
Reuniclus mentioned twice in the counters section.
For EQ users, gliscor, anyone? Immune to burns too. Dnite and mence say hey also.
If Dugtrio takes any kind of an SE attack, it probably dies.
I'm not entirely sure how much Toxic shortens Thundurus-T's sweep. Maybe a different description of how much?
 
Amateur check :) Additions and spelling/grammatical changes are in blue, omissions are in red and comments are in green.

[Overview]

<p>Despite what the ubiquity of its pre-evolution in the wild may suggest, Tentacruel is a highly valued Pokémon in the OU metagame,(add comma) as a being a stellar defensive Rapid Spin user. Unlike other defensive spinners, Tentacruel is particularly stubborn resistant to being worn down as it can take advantage of rain support to get 12.5% healing per turn with Rain Dish and Leftovers combined. When Tentacruel isn't required to spin away hazards, it can effectively spread status throughout the opponent's team by means of Toxic/Toxic Spikes and Scald, and tank hits thanks to solid HP,(add comma) and Special Defense stats, and a unique typing that grants it a plethora of resistances. However, its gelatinous exterior is vulnerable to Physical assaults due to an exceptionally low Defense stat for a support Pokemon. It is also hounded encumbered by a few weaknesses to common attacks such as Earthquake, Thunderbolt and Psyshock, which somewhat limit its defensive potential. Nonetheless, Tentacruel remains the Rapid Spin user of choice for many teams, whether they are utilising rain or not.</p>

[SET]
name: Support
move 1: Rapid Spin
move 2: Toxic / Toxic Spikes
move 3: Scald
move 4: Protect / Substitute
item: Leftovers
ability: Rain Dish
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 236 Def / 20 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>This set excels in being capable of at spinning away hazards for both balanced and stall teams alike. Unlike other users of Rapid Spin, Tentacruel is able to absorb Toxic Spikes, facilitating its work as a spinner. Tentacruel isn't limited to spinning either (remove hyphen)&mdash; it can spread status and stall out many threats.</p>

<p>Although Tentacruel has access to Toxic Spikes, Toxic is still the preferable move. This is because many teams benefit more from the immediate Poison, plus(remove comma) there are many Flying-types and Levitate users that need to can only be poisoned by Toxic. Toxic also has other vantages, such as allowing Tentacruel to consistently defeat most relevant spinblockers in rain. Nevertheless, Toxic Spikes is still a viable option, and Tentacruel has a niche as one of the few viable users of this move. Toxic Spikes is preferred on stall teams, or when using a sweeper that benefits from certain walls being crippled, particularly those walls with Natural Cure.</p>

<p>The third slot goes to Scald, the best STAB move that Tentacruel can run. It has the same power under rain as a STAB Hydro Pump outside of rain, and has a 30% chance to burn the target, discouraging things like Gyarados and Dragonite from switching(remove hypen_ in, even though they resist the move. As for The move in the fourth slot depends on your preference , it is open for choices. Protect is the main one choice, as it allows Tentacruel to stall for more Leftovers + Rain Dish recovery, essentially giving it 25% recovery for free when healing from the previous turn is also taken into account. Plus it Protect also has the advantage of ability to scout Choice users, and stops SubDisable Gengar from ruining your day. Another good option is Substitute, which blocks status and Leech Seed, and most stall teams typically have trouble breaking Tentacruel's Substitutes. When using Substitute, remember to only use it with Toxic, and not Toxic Spikes.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>The EV spread balances Tentacruel's defenses(remove comma) while maintaining enough Speed to outrun max Speed Adamant Breloom(remove comma) and max Speed Timid Magnezone. You may also run another spread of 252 HP / 240 Def / 16 Spe with a Timid nature, especially if Tentacruel is using Substitute and Toxic. This spread allows Tentacruel to outspeed Adamant Dragonite/Gyarados and Toxic them before they can attack or set up Dragon Dance. It is wise to remember that many Dragonite run Lum Berry; take care heed of this fact.</p>

<p>Instead of Substitute or Protect, Tentacruel can run a secondary attack. Keep in mind that this will have an negative impact on its defensive potential. Ice Beam severely dents Dragon-types on the switch-in, while hitting Breloom. Sludge Bomb still hits Breloom and Celebi hard (remove hyphen)&mdash; actually, harder than Ice Beam. However, it has poor coverage and its chance to Poison conflicts clashes with Scald's chance to burn. On sun teams, Scald can be replaced by Hidden Power Fire, as it 2HKOes Ferrothorn and OHKOes Scizor (if sun-(add hyphen)boosted, of course). However, it is required to run Ice Beam in tandem with it, as otherwise Tentacruel will be complete fodder for dragons. Remember to adjust the EVs to 252 HP / 232 Def / 24 Spe if using Hidden Power Fire, due to the reduction in Speed IVs. Blizzard is another option if Tentacruel is used in Hail, but passive damage compromises Tentacruel's longevity. Hydro Pump seems like a viable option over Scald for more power; however, low PP and accuracy make it an unappealing option for such a set.</p>

<p>As you may have guessed, Tentacruel is best used on rain teams. Tentacruel has no form of recovery outside of Leftovers, so it greatly appreciates rain actvating its Rain Dish ability. For this reason, Politoed is the Tentacruel's best partner. Politoed also benefits from the fact that Tentacruel can absorb Toxic Spikes. If you run Toxic Spikes, you want to pair Tentacruel with Pokémon that take advantage of it, such as SubCM Latias, QD Volcarona, Taunt Tornadus-T, etc. Gothitelle is a nice partner for Tentacruel that use Toxic Spikes, since it can trap and KO grounded Poison-types that can absorb them. As for partners that offer defensive synergy, Ferrothorn stands out, as it can complete the trifecta trio of hazards with Stealth Rock and Spikes, can use Leech Seed, and has complimentary resistances. On sun teams, Volcarona is a decent partner, as it greatly appreciates the removal of hazards from the field, and can take advantage of Toxic Spikes when it comes to breaking through special walls like Chansey/Jellicent.</p>

<p>Teammates that can deal with the things that Tentacruel lures in the most are greatly appreciated. Mamoswine can deal with Lum Berry Dragonite, SubCM Latias, and Thundurus-T, all of whom may try to set up on Tentacruel. Mamoswine also packs an Electric-type immunity, which it can use to get a free switch-in on Pokémon such as Jolteon and Zapdos.</p>

[Other Options]

<p>Tentacruel can also run an offensive Rapid Spin set holding a Life Orb with a Timid Nature, and an EV spread of 252 SpA / 4 Spd / 252 Spe and the moves Hydro Pump, Rapid Spin, Ice Beam, and Giga Drain. The main reason why this set is not listed above is because it is mostly outclassed by Starmie, which has higher Speed and Special Attack, access to reliable recovery, and a superior offensive movepool. The surprise value gives it a small degree of viability, though.</p>

<p>Liquid Ooze may come in handy in regards of when confronting Pokémon like Conkeldurr and Ferrothorn, which may use Drain Punch and Leech Seed, respectively. It also seems like an appealing option to use outside rain teams, since there is no rain to activate Rain Dish. The latter is still(remove comma) however, the superior option. Even if you are not using a rain team, you are able to take advantage of your opponent's rain.</p>

<p>Knock Off is an interesting utility move, especially considering that it can make Leftovers users succumb quickly to Poison. However, Tentacruel has trouble finding room to accommodate this move. Confuse Ray deals even more damage to the opponent if you are lucky, but Tentacruel has more consistent options to run. Magic Coat can block Taunt and status moves, but on Tentacruel, this move is rather gimmicky. Acid Spray could be used to force out opponents in fear of taking attacks at -2 Special Defense, but Tentacruel still isn't very threatening offensively.</p>

[Checks and Counters]

<p>If Tentacruel is running Toxic Spikes, anything that is immune to them and doesn't take much damage from Scald can be considered a counter. Reuniclus, the Lati twins, and Hydreigon are prime examples. The former two even have super-effective STABs to use against Tentacruel. Dragonite and Gyarados actually fit on the above description, but they will hate being burned, unless they run Substitute or Lum Berry.</p>

<p>Poison Heal Breloom is one of the best counters to Tentacruel, as it benefits from Poison and can use Tentacruel as setup fodder. It can even Spore the switch-in. However, be wary that Breloom is vulnerable to Scald burns if it doesn't have its Toxic Orb activated and Toxic Spikes aren't on the field. Celebi is probably the best counter to Tentacruel, as it can simply cure itself from status when switching out, takes little damage from most of Tentacruel's attacks, and can easily dispatch dispose of him with Psychic. Amoonguss absorbs Toxic Spikes and takes almost no damage from Scald, but it cannot do much back, retaliate aside from using Spore. Venusaur can also remove Toxic Spikes, setup Growth, and mitigate potential damage from Ice Beam or Scald burns with Giga Drain. Toxicroak is completely immune to everything in Tentacruel's arsenal, and can even remove the Toxic Spikes that Tentacruel may have set up. However, Tentacruel resists both of Toxicroak's STABs, although with a bit of boosting, Tentacruel may be overpowered.</p>

<p>SubCM Latias and SubCM Keldeo aren't bothered by anything that Tentacruel can throw at them, and can set up on it easily(remove comma) if they haven't been poisoned by Toxic Spikes or by Toxic on the switch-in. Both Alakazam and Reuniclus do not have to worry about status at all, and can easily dispatch dispose of Tentacruel with their STAB moves, although Alakazam takes decent damage from Scald due to its natural frailty. Starmie can spin away the Toxic Spikes that Tentacruel worked so hard to get up, and can force it Tentacruel out with the threat of STAB Psyshock(remove comma) or Thunder/Thunderbolt. Natural Cure means that Starmie does not have to worry about being statused. If Tentacruel lacks Toxic, Jellicent has no problem coming in to block Tentacruel's Rapid Spin, and can beat it 1v1 with Will-O-Wisp and Recover.</p>

<p>If the current weather is sunlight sunny, Heatran takes little damage from Scald, and can defeat it Tentacruel with a super effective Earth Power or a double STAB Fire Blast. Speaking of Earth Power, any Pokémon with that move or Earthquake will easily force Tentacruel out. Examples of this are Ground-types like Landorus (both Therian and Incarnate), Mamoswine, and Garchomp. However, they all loathe burns, and the former first two are weak to Scald. Gastrodon can switch in on any of Tentacruel's moves(remove comma, add parentheses) (barring Toxic)(remove comma) and demolish it with Earthquake or Earth Power. Electric-types, like Ground-types, also have super-effective STABs and can easily force Tentacruel out. Zapdos and Magnezone can withstand a Scald and pay back retaliate with powerful Thunderbolts/Thunders. Thundurus-T will easily force Tentacruel out, which may give him the perfect opportunity to set up a Nasty Plot or Agility. However, Thundurus-T has difficulty switching in on Scald or Toxic; the former does heavy damage to the thunder genie, and the latter shortens its sweeping lifespan even further. SubDisable Gengar is immune to everything Tentacruel has bar Scald, and can spinblock. Once it has a Substitute under its belt, it can disable Scald and Shadow Ball Tentacruel to death. A smart player can get around this by using Protect, through. Gothitelle can switch in on Tentacruel with minimal risk, trap it with Shadow Tag, and OHKO with Psyshock or Psychic. Dugtrio can also do the same with Arena Trap and Earthquake, but it needs Tentacruel to be slightly weakened, and cannot really switch in on Tentacruel's Scald, because if it is burned, Dugtrio loses.</p>

KEEP GELATINOUS EXTERIOR :D
 
Texas Cloverleaf said:
Sub SD Cruel in OO?
Click to expand...

I think that this doesn't even deserve a mention. It is totally outclassed by any other Swords Dance user, such as Terrakion, Lucario, and even Landorus. They all have higher speed or acess to priority, and all offer better STABs or actual coverage moves, in adittion to being naturally stronger.

That said, I am going to do the changes now.
 
Sorry, but that kind of set is exactly what OO is for. Tentacruel has his Water-type STAB moves boosted in Rain, not to mention the fact that it has far more survivability than those other Pokemon. It's STAB moves have good coverage together, and it can check powerful offensive threats such as Keldeo. I feel like it deserves a mention.
 
Why would you use SubSD Tentacruel when you have Gyarados and even Keldeo to perform this role better? Tentacruel's greatest selling point is its ability to spin, if I wanted a boosting physical sweeper I wouldn't be using it.
 
Survivability is a particular point, the set I recall being used most effectively was Substitute / Swords Dance / Waterfall / Protect, so even if it couldn't immediately threaten its opposition it could easily stall a move either out of PP or until it missed and continue setting up. Tentacruel's good base 100 Speed is often underestimated, and its unique typing let's it set up on Pokemon that would otherwise expect Tentacruel to be harmless. As I said I'm not arguing for a main set here, just that Tentacruel is capable of running a SubSD set that can be effective given the surprise factor behind it and its exceptional survivability.


@papai noel, explain to me where Gyarados and Keldeo have less vulnerability to hazards, better inherent recovery and, you know, the move Swords Dance.
 
Texas Cloverleaf said:
@papai noel, explain to me where Gyarados and Keldeo have less vulnerability to hazards, better inherent recovery and, you know, the move Swords Dance.
Click to expand...

Yes, but these mean nothing when Gyarados has Dragon Dance, a better Attack, and better coverage. Keldeo shouldn't be really using a Swords Dance set, as its main selling point is using special attacks, plus, it already has Secret Sword, which hits on the physical side. It even has Calm Mind to augment its power (and its special defense). Both don't have the same survivability that Tentacruel has, but Tentacruel has much less advantages compared to the two. Also, surprise =/= good.
 
Texas Cloverleaf said:
@papai noel, explain to me where Gyarados and Keldeo have less vulnerability to hazards, better inherent recovery and, you know, the move Swords Dance.
Click to expand...
All I'm saying is that Tentacruel has much better options to run and there are many other stuff better than it as a physical sweeper. SubSD Tentacruel might work for the suprise factor, but this is taking out a lot of its supporting potencial. I just don't feel this set can work, but since I haven't tested it and I can't make points just with theorymon, it may deserve a mention in OO. This doesn't change the fact that I still believe that there are better stuff to do this, though.
 
Yes, Tentacruel has much better options to run, so you might as well mention that in Other Options by stating that SubSD, while interesting, is inferior to the other sets most of the time!

This seems like a good compromise and it doesn't hurt to supply a little more information to readers as opposed to not mentioning it at all.
 
Yep, SubSD for OO LGI - pretty sure it was in the original skelly so you did not need to remove it
 
Alright, guys, I've made a little mention of a SubSD set on Other Options, though I still think that his set is pretty much outclassed by everything. I admit that I've not tested it, though.
 
REMOVE CHANGE COMMENTS

[Overview]

<p>Despite what the ubiquity of its pre-evolution in the wild may suggest, Tentacruel is a highly valued Pokémon in the OU metagame, being a stellar defensive Rapid Spin user. Unlike other defensive spinners, Tentacruel is particularly resistant to being worn down as it can take advantage of rain support to get 12.5% healing per turn with Rain Dish and Leftovers combined. When Tentacruel isn't required to spin away hazards, it can effectively spread status throughout the opponent's team by means of Toxic/Toxic Spikes and Scald, (RC) and tank hits thanks to solid HP, Special Defense, and a unique typing that grants it a plethora of resistances. However, its gelatinous exterior is vulnerable to physical assaults due to an unfortunately exceptionally low Defense stat for a support Pokemon. It is also encumbered by a few weaknesses to common attacks such as Earthquake, Thunderbolt, (AC) and Psyshock, which somewhat limit its defensive potential. Nonetheless, Tentacruel remains the Rapid Spin user of choice for many teams, whether they are utilizing rain or not.</p>

[SET]
name: Support
move 1: Rapid Spin
move 2: Toxic / Toxic Spikes
move 3: Scald
move 4: Protect / Substitute
item: Leftovers
ability: Rain Dish
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 236 Def / 20 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>This set excels at spinning away hazards for both balanced and stall teams alike. Unlike other users of Rapid Spin, Tentacruel is able to absorb Toxic Spikes, facilitating its work as a spinner. Tentacruel isn't limited to spinning either&mdash;it can spread status and stall out many threats.</p>

<p>Although Tentacruel has access to Toxic Spikes, Toxic is still the preferable move. This is because many teams benefit more from the immediate Poison, plus there are many Flying-types and Levitate Pokemon users that can only be poisoned by Toxic. Toxic also has other advantages, such as allowing Tentacruel to consistently defeat most relevant spinblockers in rain. Nevertheless, Toxic Spikes is still a viable option, and Tentacruel has a niche as one of the few viable users of this move. Toxic Spikes is preferred on stall teams, or when using a sweeper that benefits from certain walls being crippled, particularly walls with Natural Cure.</p>

<p>The third slot goes to Scald, the best STAB move that Tentacruel can run. It has the same power under rain as a STAB Hydro Pump outside of rain, and has a 30% chance to burn the target, discouraging Pokemon such as things like Gyarados and Dragonite from switching in, even though they resist the move. The move in the fourth slot depends on your preference. Protect is the main choice, as it allows Tentacruel to stall for more Leftovers + Rain Dish recovery. Protect also has the ability to scout Choice users, (RC) and stops SubDisable Gengar from ruining your day. Another good option is Substitute, which blocks status and Leech Seed, and most stall teams typically have trouble breaking Tentacruel's Substitutes. When using Substitute, remember to only use it with Toxic, and not Toxic Spikes.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>The EV spread balances Tentacruel's defenses while maintaining enough Speed to outrun max Speed Adamant Breloom and max Speed Timid Magnezone. You may also run another spread of 252 HP / 240 Def / 16 Spe with a Timid nature, especially if Tentacruel is using Substitute and Toxic. This spread allows Tentacruel to outspeed Adamant Dragonite and Gyarados and Toxic them before they can attack or set up with Dragon Dance. It is wise to remember that many Dragonite run Lum Berry, however; take heed of this fact.</p>

<p>Instead of Substitute or Protect, Tentacruel can run a secondary attack. Keep in mind that this will have an negative impact on its defensive potential. Ice Beam severely dents Dragon-types on the switch-in, while hitting Breloom. Sludge Bomb still hits Breloom and Celebi hard&mdash;actually, harder than Ice Beam. However, it has poor coverage and its chance to Poison clashes with Scald's chance to burn. On sun teams, Scald can be replaced by Hidden Power Fire, as it 2HKOes Ferrothorn and OHKOes Scizor (if sun-boosted, of course). However, it is required to run Ice Beam in tandem with it, as otherwise Tentacruel will be complete fodder for dragons. Remember to adjust the EVs to 252 HP / 232 Def / 24 Spe if using Hidden Power Fire, due to the reduction in Speed IVs. Blizzard is another option if Tentacruel is used in Hail, but passive damage compromises Tentacruel's longevity. Hydro Pump seems like a viable option over Scald for more power; however, but low PP and accuracy make it an unappealing option for such a set.</p>

<p>As you may have guessed, Tentacruel is best used on rain teams. Tentacruel has no other form of recovery outside of Leftovers, so it greatly appreciates rain actvating its Rain Dish ability. For this reason, Politoed is Tentacruel's best partner. Politoed also benefits from the fact that Tentacruel can absorb Toxic Spikes. If you run Toxic Spikes, you want to pair Tentacruel with Pokemon that take advantage of it, such as SubCM Latias, QD Volcarona, Taunt Tornadus-T, etc. Gothitelle is a nice partner for Tentacruel that use Toxic Spikes, since it can trap and KO grounded Poison-types that can absorb them. As for partners that offer defensive synergy, Ferrothorn stands out, as it can complete the trio of hazards with Stealth Rock and Spikes, can use Leech Seed, and has complimentary resistances. On sun teams, Volcarona is a decent partner, as it greatly appreciates the removal of hazards from the field, (RC) and can take advantage of Toxic Spikes when it comes to breaking through special walls such as like Chansey or Jellicent.</p>

<p>Teammates that can deal with the things that Tentacruel lures in the most are greatly appreciated. Mamoswine can deal with Lum Berry Dragonite, SubCM Latias, and Thundurus-T, all of which might whom may try to set up on Tentacruel. Mamoswine also packs an Electric-type immunity, which it can use to get a free switch-in on Pokemon such as Jolteon and Zapdos.</p>

[Other Options]

<p>Tentacruel can also run an offensive Rapid Spin set holding a Life Orb with a Timid Nature, (RC) and an EV spread of 252 SpA / 4 Spd / 252 Sp with and the moves Hydro Pump, Rapid Spin, Ice Beam, and Giga Drain. The main reason why this set is not listed above is because it is mostly outclassed by Starmie, which has higher Speed and Special Attack, access to reliable recovery, and a superior offensive movepool. The surprise value gives it a small degree of viability, though.</p>

<p>Liquid Ooze may come in handy when confronting Pokemon like such as Conkeldurr and Ferrothorn, which may can use Drain Punch and Leech Seed, respectively. It also seems like an appealing option to use outside rain teams, since there is no rain to activate Rain Dish. The latter is still, (AC) however, the superior option. Even if you are not using a rain team, you are able to take advantage of your opponent's rain.</p>

<p>Knock Off is an interesting utility move, especially considering that it can make Leftovers users succumb quickly to Poison. However, Tentacruel has trouble finding room to accommodate this move. Confuse Ray deals even more damage to the opponent if you are lucky, but Tentacruel has more consistent options to run. Magic Coat can block Taunt and status moves, but on Tentacruel, this move is rather gimmicky. Acid Spray could be used to force out opponents in fear of taking attacks at -2 Special Defense, but Tentacruel still isn't very threatening offensively.</p>

<p>Tentacruel can actually go to the sweeping route by using a SubSD set with Substitute, Swords Dance, Waterfall, and Poison Jab. Despite a paltry base 70 Attack stat, Tentacruel will still hit hard after a Swords Dance or two, and Water- and Poison-type attacks have surprisingly good coverage together. That said, despite Tentacruel's good speed and survivability under rain, it tends to be outclassed by other physical sweepers due to its shallow physical movepool, and because this set is often inferior to the other defensive or offensive sets.</p>

[Checks and Counters]

<p>If Tentacruel is running Toxic Spikes, anything that is immune to them and doesn't take much damage from Scald can be considered a counter. Reuniclus, the Lati twins, and Hydreigon are prime examples. The former two even have super effective STABs to use against Tentacruel. Dragonite and Gyarados actually fit the above description, but they will hate being burned, unless they run Substitute or Lum Berry.</p>

<p>Poison Heal Breloom is one of the best counters to Tentacruel, as it benefits from Poison and can use Tentacruel as setup fodder. It can even Spore Tentacruel on the switch-in. However, be wary that Breloom is vulnerable to Scald burns if it doesn't have its Toxic Orb activated and Toxic Spikes aren't on the field. Celebi is probably the best counter to Tentacruel, as it can simply cure itself from status when switching out, takes little damage from most of Tentacruel's attacks, and can easily dispose of it him with Psychic. Amoonguss absorbs Toxic Spikes and takes almost no damage from Scald, but it cannot retaliate aside from using Spore. Venusaur can also remove Toxic Spikes, set up Growth, and mitigate potential damage from Ice Beam or Scald burns with Giga Drain. Toxicroak is completely immune to everything in Tentacruel's arsenal, (RC) and can even remove Toxic Spikes. Tentacruel resists both of Toxicroak's STABs, though with a bit of boosting, Tentacruel may be overpowered.</p>

<p>SubCM Latias and SubCM Keldeo aren't bothered by anything that Tentacruel can throw at them, (RC) and can set up on it easily if they haven't been poisoned by Toxic Spikes or by Toxic on the switch-in. Both Alakazam and Reuniclus do not have to worry about status at all, and can easily dispose of Tentacruel with their STAB moves, although Alakazam takes decent damage from Scald due to its natural frailty. Starmie can spin away Toxic Spikes, (RC) and can force it Tentacruel out with the threat of STAB Psyshock or Thunder/Thunderbolt. Natural Cure means that Starmie does not have to worry about status. If Tentacruel lacks Toxic, Jellicent has no problem coming in to block Rapid Spin, (RC) and can beat it 1v1 with Will-O-Wisp and Recover.</p>

<p>If the weather is sunny, Heatran takes little damage from Scald, (RC) and can defeat Tentacruel with a super effective Earth Power or STAB Fire Blast. Speaking of Earth Power, any Pokemon with that move or Earthquake will easily force Tentacruel out. Examples of this are Ground-types such as like Landorus (both Therian and Incarnate), Mamoswine, and Garchomp. However, they all loathe burns, and the first two are weak to Scald. Gastrodon can switch in on any of Tentacruel's moves (barring Toxic) and demolish it with Earthquake or Earth Power. Electric-types, like Ground-types, also have super effective STABs and can easily force Tentacruel out. Zapdos and Magnezone can withstand a Scald and retaliate with powerful Thunderbolts/Thunders. Thundurus-T will easily force Tentacruel out, which may give it him the perfect opportunity to set up a Nasty Plot or Agility. However, Thundurus-T has difficulty switching in on Scald or Toxic; the former does heavy damage to the thunder genie, and the latter shortens its lifespan even further. SubDisable Gengar is immune to everything Tentacruel has bar Scald, (RC) and can spinblock. Once it has a Substitute under its belt, it can disable Scald and Shadow Ball Tentacruel to death. A smart player can get around this by using Protect, through. Gothitelle can switch in on Tentacruel with minimal risk, trap it with Shadow Tag, and OHKO with Psyshock or Psychic. Dugtrio can also do the same with Arena Trap and Earthquake, but it needs Tentacruel to be slightly weakened, and cannot really switch in on Tentacruel's Scald, because if it is burned, Dugtrio loses.</p>

You use a lot of commas mid-sentence, which is sometimes incorrect. Commas in the middle of sentences should only be used if the thought coming after the comma doesn't relate to the thought beforehand. Otherwise this was good, although you'll want to type Pokemon with no accent.

[gp]1/2[/gp]
 
made the changes GatoDelFuego, I had very few time to post on Smogon these days, sorry for not being able to implement these changes at the time.
 
Deletions
Additions / Corrections
Comments

[Overview]

<p>Despite what the ubiquity of its pre-evolution in the wild may suggest, Tentacruel is a highly valued Pokémon in the OU metagame, being a stellar defensive Rapid Spin user. Unlike other defensive spinners, Tentacruel is particularly resistant to being worn down, as it can take advantage of rain support to get 12.5% healing per turn with Rain Dish and Leftovers combined. When Tentacruel isn't required to spin away hazards, it can effectively spread status throughout the opponent's team (this phrase is redundant) by means of Toxic/Toxic Spikes and Scald and tank hits thanks to solid HP, Special Defense, and a unique typing that grants it a plethora of resistances. However, its gelatinous exterior is vulnerable to physical assaults due to an unfortunately low Defense stat for a support Pokemon. It is also encumbered by a few weaknesses to common attacks such as Earthquake, Thunderbolt, and Psyshock, which somewhat limit its defensive potential. Nonetheless, Tentacruel remains the Rapid Spin user of choice for many teams, whether they are utilizing rain or not.</p>

[SET]
name: Support
move 1: Rapid Spin
move 2: Toxic / Toxic Spikes
move 3: Scald
move 4: Protect / Substitute
item: Leftovers
ability: Rain Dish
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 236 Def / 20 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

<p>This set excels at spinning away hazards for both balanced and stall teams alike. Unlike other users of Rapid Spin, Tentacruel is able to absorb Toxic Spikes, facilitating its work as a spinner. Tentacruel isn't limited to spinning either&mdash;it can spread status and stall out many threats.</p>

<p>Although Tentacruel has access to Toxic Spikes, Toxic is still the preferable move. This is because many teams benefit more from the immediate poison, plus and there are also many Flying-types and Levitate Pokémon that can only be poisoned by Toxic. Toxic also has other advantages, such as allowing Tentacruel to consistently defeat most relevant spinblockers in rain. Nevertheless, Toxic Spikes is still a viable option, and Tentacruel has a niche as one of the few viable users of this move. Toxic Spikes is preferred on stall teams, or when using a sweeper that benefits from certain walls being crippled, particularly walls those with Natural Cure.</p>

<p>The third slot goes to Scald, the best STAB move that Tentacruel can run. It has the same power under rain as a Hydro Pump outside of rain, and has a 30% chance to burn the target, discouraging Pokemon such as Gyarados and Dragonite from switching in, even though they resist the move. The move in the fourth slot depends on your preference. Protect is the main choice, as it allows Tentacruel to stall for more Leftovers + Rain Dish recovery. Protect also has the ability to scout Choice users and stop SubDisable Gengar from ruining your day. Another good option is Substitute, which blocks status and Leech Seed, and most stall teams typically have trouble breaking Tentacruel's Substitutes. When using Substitute, remember to only use it with Toxic, and not Toxic Spikes.</p>

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

<p>The EV spread balances Tentacruel's defenses while maintaining enough Speed to outrun max Speed Adamant Breloom and max Speed Timid Magnezone. You may also run another spread of 252 HP / 240 Def / 16 Spe with a Timid nature, especially if Tentacruel is using Substitute and Toxic. This spread allows Tentacruel to outspeed Adamant Dragonite and Gyarados and Toxic them before they can attack or set up with Dragon Dance. It is wise to remember that many Dragonite run Lum Berry, however.</p>

<p>Instead of Substitute or Protect, Tentacruel can run a secondary attack. Keep in mind that this will have an negative impact on its defensive potential. Ice Beam severely dents Dragon-types on the switch-in, while also hitting Breloom. Sludge Bomb still hits Breloom and Celebi hard&mdash;actually, harder than Ice Beam. However, it has poor coverage and its chance to poison clashes with Scald's chance to burn. On sun teams, Scald can be replaced by Hidden Power Fire, as it 2HKOes Ferrothorn and OHKOes Scizor (if sun-boosted, of course). However, it is required to run Ice Beam in tandem with it, as otherwise Tentacruel will be complete fodder for Dragon-types. Remember to adjust the EVs to 252 HP / 232 Def / 24 Spe if using Hidden Power Fire, due to the reduction in Speed IVs. Blizzard is another option if Tentacruel is used in hail, but passive damage compromises Tentacruel's longevity. Hydro Pump seems like a viable option over Scald for more power, but low PP and accuracy make it an unappealing option for such a set.</p>

<p>As you may have guessed, Tentacruel is best used on rain teams. Tentacruel has no other form of recovery outside of Leftovers, so it greatly appreciates rain activating its ability. For this reason, Politoed is Tentacruel's best partner. Politoed also benefits from the fact that Tentacruel can absorb Toxic Spikes. If you run Toxic Spikes, you want to pair Tentacruel with Pokemon that take advantage of it, such as SubCM Latias, Volcarona, and Taunt Tornadus-T, etc. Gothitelle is a nice partner for Tentacruel that use Toxic Spikes, since it can trap and KO grounded Poison-types that can absorb them. As for partners that offer defensive synergy, Ferrothorn stands out, as it can complete the trio of hazards with Stealth Rock and Spikes, can use Leech Seed, and has complimentary resistances. On sun teams, Volcarona is a decent partner, as it greatly appreciates the removal of hazards from the field and can take advantage of Toxic Spikes when it comes to breaking through special walls such as Chansey and Jellicent.</p>

<p>Teammates that can deal with the things that Tentacruel lures in the most are greatly appreciated. Mamoswine can deal with Lum Berry Dragonite, SubCM Latias, and Thundurus-T, all of which might try to set up on Tentacruel. Mamoswine also packs an Electric-type immunity, which it can use to get a free switch-in on Pokemon such as Jolteon and Zapdos.</p>

[Other Options]

<p>Tentacruel can also run an offensive Rapid Spin set holding a Life Orb with a Timid nature, and an EV spread of 252 SpA / 4 Spd / 252 Spe, and a moveset of with Hydro Pump, Rapid Spin, Ice Beam, and Giga Drain. The main reason why this set is not listed above is because it is mostly outclassed by Starmie, which has higher Speed and Special Attack, access to reliable recovery, and a superior offensive movepool. The surprise value gives it a small degree of viability, though.</p>

<p>Liquid Ooze may come in handy when confronting Pokemon such as Conkeldurr and Ferrothorn, which can use Drain Punch and Leech Seed, respectively. It also seems like an appealing option to use outside rain teams, since there is no rain to activate Rain Dish. The latter is still, however, the superior option. Even if you are not using a rain team, you are able to take advantage of your opponent's rain.</p>

<p>Knock Off is an interesting utility move, especially considering that it can make Leftovers users succumb quickly to poison. However, Tentacruel has trouble finding room to accommodate this move. Confuse Ray deals even more damage to the opponent if you are lucky, but Tentacruel has more consistent options to run. Magic Coat can block Taunt and status moves, but on Tentacruel, this move is rather gimmicky. Acid Spray could be used to force out opponents in fear of taking attacks at -2 Special Defense, but Tentacruel still isn't very threatening offensively.</p>

<p>Tentacruel can actually go to the sweeping route by using a SubSD set with Substitute, Swords Dance, Waterfall, and Poison Jab. Despite a paltry base 70 Attack stat, Tentacruel will still hit hard after a Swords Dance or two, and Water- and Poison-type attacks have surprisingly good coverage together. That said, despite Tentacruel's good speed and survivability longevity under rain, it tends to be outclassed by other physical sweepers due to its shallow physical movepool, and because the fact that this set is often inferior to the Tentacruel's other defensive or offensive sets.</p>

[Checks and Counters]

<p>If Tentacruel is running Toxic Spikes, anything that is immune to them and doesn't take much damage from Scald can be considered a counter. Reuniclus, the Lati twins, and Hydreigon are prime examples. The former two even have super effective STAB moves to use against Tentacruel. Dragonite and Gyarados actually fit the above description, but they will hate being burned, unless they run Substitute or Lum Berry.</p>

<p>Poison Heal Breloom is one of the best counters to Tentacruel, as it benefits from poison and can use Tentacruel as setup fodder. However, be wary that Breloom is vulnerable to Scald burns if it doesn't have its Toxic Orb activated and Toxic Spikes aren't on the field. Celebi is probably the best counter to Tentacruel, as it can simply cure itself from of status when switching out, takes little damage from most of Tentacruel's attacks, and can easily dispose of it with Psychic. Amoonguss absorbs Toxic Spikes and takes almost no damage from Scald, but it cannot retaliate aside from using Spore. Venusaur can also remove Toxic Spikes, set up Growth, and mitigate potential damage from Ice Beam or Scald burns with Giga Drain. Toxicroak is completely immune to everything in Tentacruel's arsenal and can remove Toxic Spikes. Even though Tentacruel resists both of Toxicroak's STABs, though with a bit of boosting, Tentacruel it may be overpowered after a few boosts.</p>

<p>SubCM Latias and SubCM Keldeo aren't bothered by anything that Tentacruel can throw at them and can set up on it easily if they haven't been poisoned by Toxic Spikes or by Toxic on the switch-in. Both Alakazam and Reuniclus do not have to worry about status at all, and can easily dispose of Tentacruel with their STAB moves, although Alakazam takes decent damage from Scald due to its natural frailty. Starmie can spin away Toxic Spikes and can force Tentacruel out with the threat of STAB Psyshock or Thunder/Thunderbolt. Natural Cure means that Starmie does not have to worry about status. If Tentacruel lacks Toxic, Jellicent has no problem coming in to block Rapid Spin and can beat it 1v1 with Will-O-Wisp and Recover.</p>

<p>If the weather is sunny, Heatran takes little damage from Scald and can defeat Tentacruel with a super effective Earth Power. Speaking of Earth Power, any Pokemon with that move or Earthquake will easily force Tentacruel out. Examples of this are Ground-types such as Landorus (both Therian and Incarnate), Mamoswine, and Garchomp. However, they all loathe burns, and the first two are weak to Scald. Gastrodon can switch in on any of Tentacruel's moves (barring Toxic) and demolish it with Earthquake or Earth Power. Electric-types, like Ground-types, also have super effective STABs and can easily force Tentacruel out. Zapdos and Magnezone can withstand a Scald and retaliate with powerful Thunderbolts/Thunders. Thundurus-T will easily force Tentacruel out, which may give it the perfect opportunity to set up a Nasty Plot or Agility. However, Thundurus-T has difficulty switching in on Scald or Toxic; the former does heavy damage, and the latter shortens its lifespan even further. SubDisable Gengar is immune to everything Tentacruel has bar Scald and can spinblock. Once it has a Substitute under its belt, it can disable Scald and Shadow Ball Tentacruel to death. A smart player can get around this by using Protect, though. Gothitelle can switch in on Tentacruel with minimal risk, trap it with Shadow Tag, and OHKO with Psyshock or Psychic. Dugtrio can also do the same with Arena Trap and Earthquake, but it needs Tentacruel to be slightly weakened, and even with Focus Sash, it cannot really switch in on Tentacruel's Scald, because if it is burned, Dugtrio loses.</p>

Remember, status effects such as poison are not capitalized. Good job otherwise, so

contrib_gp.png


GP 2 / 2
 
DFA please mention in the overview that Tentacruel's SubToxic set can beat any spinner in rain, including Sableye. That's a pretty big selling point of Tentacruel.

Also are the 3 paragraphs in the set comments really needed? I feel that either all of them could be merged, or at least the last two paragraphs can be merged.

When talking about Substitute on Tentacruel, mention how it allows it to get past Jellicent unscathed and get a Rapid Spin off, which is one of its selling points.

Finally, i think you have many unecessary paragraphs in general, for example in OO and c&c, and i think you could merge some or all of those really small paragrpaphs, except when you focus on only one thing and go in a lot of details. For example i think that the sets in OO, SD and offensive special, can be described in one paragrpah, as they are both alternative sets.

Really minor complaints though, and i don't even know if i am right, and your paragraphs might as well be totally fine, but it doesn't hurt to tell you what i think.

EDIT: I also want to see more partners that take care of Pokemon that trouble Tentacruel in the last paragraph of the AC. Perish Song Celebi is a percfect partner, as it covers all of Tenta's weaknesses, and deals with SubCM Latias, SubDD Dragonite, most Thundurus-T, Specs Jolteon (just scout its move with Protect), and most Ground-types as well. It's up to you to mention a few more...
 
Minor Nitpick. Why not Black sludge?

At least that will at least make Choice Trolls think twice before tricking it.
 
I'm sorry, but no.
This was an old topic, and I thought it was generally accepted that 'tricking Black Sludge to another member of your team' wasn't a good excuse, seeing as how you could switch the Poison-type Pokemon back in. Why bring up that topic again? On every Poison-type getting an update/revamp, you'll see Black Sludge as the item of choice over Leftovers. I have no idea why Tentacruel would be different, so I'm guessing it's just something that QC members looked over.

I don't have the post with the discussion on me now, but I can find it if you need further evidence.

EDIT: I apologize if I came off a bit strong.
 
I made all the suggested changes. About Black Sludge, I think that it is not inferior or superior to Leftovers. While what was said above is true, it's a matter of prediction if you can switch the Poison-type back, plus, many Trick users have super-effective attacks to use against Tentacruel. If it has decided that Black Sludge was superior, then I am going to put Black Sludge, but on my opinion neither is superior to the other and it's mostly a matter of if you are good with prediction (unfortunately I am not)
 
I disagree with it being strictly a matter of prediction, since you're supposedly getting Tricked on the switch, which would mean that said Poke is a good switch into the Choice user. There's also the fact that, even if you do need to be somewhat good at predictions, that doesn't make it any worse than Leftovers, where you're simply losing your recovery and possibly being locked into a move, which doesn't help. At least in that situation, Black Sludge has the added effect of doing 1/8 damage to the opponent! Even if it's just one turn.

That said, the ability of the user shouldn't really matter much when we consider that all the other Poison-types getting revamps (Roserade is the first that comes to mind) still have it as the only option for recovery... It would be better if we could do the same for all, and not have different choices between one and the next, imo.

EDIT: Yes Bri, you're right on that, however, shouldn't we try to be consistent with the rest of the analyses? And I know this might be considered silly thinking since there's a lot of analyses that differ in the pronouns used for male/female-only Pokes, or in the 'like' v. 'such as' discussion for GP'ers, but I don't know, I'd prefer that analyses didn't differ in this particular matter.
 
the lefties vs sludge argument is never ending. the op should just pick one and be consistent with mentioning it
 
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