PU Type: Null [QC: 3/3] [GP: 2/2]

uploaded -mz

Taken from yogi and 2xTheTap by lethal force

QC: ? / ? / ?
GP: ? / ?


[OVERVIEW]

Type: Null is one of the bulkiest Pokemon in PU, blanket checking special attackers such as Lilligant, Mesprit, Swanna, and Jynx. It also has usable physical bulk that not only can be boosted further by Iron Defense but also allows it to check weaker physical attackers like Skuntank, Togedemaru, and Alolan Dugtrio. Although Type: Null's base Speed sits on the lower end of the spectrum, its access to U-turn lets it use said Speed to act as a slow and bulky pivot that creates many opportunities for teammates to be safely brought into the field. Alternatively, Swords Dance makes Type: Null a potent late-game sweeper that uses its defenses to set up with ease, with Battle Armor also coming into play by preventing critical hits, enhancing its sweeping opportunities. Type: Null's nature as a sturdy RestTalk user also makes it very reliable as a status absorber for its team. Unfortunately, Type: Null's reliance on its STAB attacks makes it dependent on Pursuit support to remove Ghost-types, and its Fighting weakness leaves it checked by powerful Pokemon like Gurdurr and Primeape. Furthermore, Eviolite is integral for checking stronger special attackers like Choice Specs Alolan Exeggutor and Aurorus, making Type: Null susceptible to Knock Off and Trick. Type: Null is often on the defensive when it needs to heal, allowing users of Taunt to easily stop it when it tries to use Rest. While it can beat certain Rock- and Steel-types due to them eventually being overpowered by boosted Return and outlasted by Type: Null's recovery, notable exceptions include Lycanroc, Omastar, Carracosta, and Aggron, which can all either use it as setup fodder or break through it firsthand. It can also face competition with other late-game sweepers like Calm Mind Spiritomb and Curse Munchlax, both of which have different typing or abilities that give them resistances or immunities that Type: Null lacks. Regardless, Type: Null is a nice bulky team player with decent role compression for a wide range of playstyles.

[SET]
name: Bulky Pivot
move 1: U-turn
move 2: Return
move 3: Rest
move 4: Sleep Talk
item: Eviolite
ability: Battle Armor
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 8 Def / 248 SpD

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

U-turn is strong tool for gaining momentum, pivoting out against faster Pokemon or unfavorable switch-ins like Froslass, Regirock, and Aggron. Return is a strong, reliable STAB move that deals respectable damage to most non-resistant targets. Rest is Type: Null's main form of recovery and can also cure all status ailments at the cost of falling asleep for a few turns. Sleep Talk lets Type: Null act while it is asleep, potentially letting it pivot out of Pokemon that try to take advantage of its status, allowing it to not be as passive.

Set Details
========

Full investment in HP and Special Defense with a Careful nature maximizes Type: Null's bulk to carry out its role as a strong catch-all sponge to special attackers. Eviolite further increases Type: Null's defenses, allowing it to do its job defensively. 8 Defense EVs make for an even number that gives it two extra points thanks to the Eviolite boost. Battle Armor is great for making Type: Null more reliable as a wall, preventing critical hits from attackers.

Usage Tips
========

Type: Null should pivot into strong special attackers and users of status-inducing moves like Lilligant, Lanturn, Swanna, and Altaria. Beyond that, generating momentum is Type: Null's other key role; U-turn is safe to use on predicted switches to avoid unfavorable matchups against either bulky Pokemon like Regirock and Qwilfish or Fighting-types that comfortably take Return like Gurdurr. From there, it should use that opportunity to get in wallbreakers or Pokemon that can threaten them out. In other cases, Return can be nice for consistent damage when not a lot of Pokemon that resist it are left. Using Rest when Type: Null is weakened is important to keep it healthy to check special attackers, force switches, and pivot around as much as it can. When asleep, finding opportunities to burn sleep turns is recommended, which can be done against the large number of Pokemon that Type: Null is not significantly damaged by. It is often able to safely use Sleep Talk without being too passive, as it can sometimes pivot out with U-turn. Lastly, Type: Null should be wary of foes like Mesprit with Knock Off or Trick and should play around users Taunt sparingly, as they can punish attempts to use Rest.

Team Options
========

Type: Null's ability to blanket check special attackers and reliably pivot around allows it to support offensive and defensive teams alike. Wallbreakers such as Aggron, Omastar, and Aurorus that appreciate safe switches are solid options, as they can take advantage of Ghost-types like Oricorio-G and Gourgeist-XL and physical walls like Weezing. Fighting-type checks are top priority, which include Pokemon like Qwilfish, Mesprit, Froslass, and Scyther; Qwilfish and Froslass can set up Spikes to chip down said Fighting-types, Mesprit can support Type: Null with Stealth Rock and use Healing Wish in situations where Type: Null is weakened and hasn't burned enough sleep turns, and Scyther appreciates Type: Null's ability to absorb status and can form a strong pivoting core alongside it. Pursuit trappers such as Skuntank and Spiritomb can help remove problematic Ghost-types especially the likes of Haunter and Oricorio-G. Other strong checks to Oricorio-G include Togedemaru, Oricorio-E, and Lycanroc, which all appreciate Type: Null bringing them in safely with U-turn to apply offensive pressure on their own. Type: Null pairs well with other pivoting cores that can include Primeape, Lanturn, and Eelektross, all of which can use their own offensive typing, utility, and strong attacking moves to force switches. Physically defensive Pokemon like Tangela, Regirock, and Gurdurr form good defensive cores with Type: Null, as they can cushion hits from physical breakers like Aggron and Stoutland better. Entry hazard removers like Skuntank, Swanna, Rotom-F are solid, since Type: Null is a pivot that is vulnerable to Spikes and every other hazard. They can also threaten the likes of Qwilfish and Froslass, two Spikes setters that Type: Null often invites in for free, as well as support Type: Null in other ways, including Skuntank's Pursuit support, Swanna's STAB combination and special attacking prowess that lets it pressure Rock- and Fighting-types like Regirock, Aggron, and Hitmonchan, and Rotom-F's pivoting with its own Volt Switch. Pokemon that switch into Knock Off easily alleviate pressure for Type: Null; options include Rocky Helmet Weezing, Silvally-Fairy, and Sableye, which all pressure common Knock Off users like Gurdurr and Zangoose. Silvally-Fairy is also immune to Trick and Switcheroo, which can be useful for pivoting in certain instances.

[SET]
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Return
move 3: Rest
move 4: Sleep Talk / Iron Defense
item: Eviolite
ability: Battle Armor
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 8 Def / 248 SpD

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

Swords Dance boosts Type: Null's Attack by two stages and lets it break through bulky Pokemon like Mudsdale and Clefairy more efficiently, making it a deadly breaker and setup sweeper. Type: Null finds many opportunities to set up versus those Pokemon and more thanks to its great bulk. Return is a Type: Null's most powerful STAB option and main cleaning tool, dealing respectable damage to most targets neutral to it. Rest gives Type: Null a recovery option at the cost of making it asleep for a few turns, restoring all health and curing status. Sleep Talk lets Type: Null use its moves while it's asleep to make it less passive, which can be great for accumulating Swords Dance boosts or firing off powerful Returns. Iron Defense increases Type: Null's Defense, allowing it to outlast physical attackers such as Hitmonchan and Aggron that can otherwise break through it. Using Iron Defense does, however, come with the drawback of being more passive and enabling Pokemon to take advantage of Type: Null due to forgoing Sleep Talk.

Set Details
========

Full investment in HP and Special Defense makes Type: Null as specially bulky as possible, letting it blanket check special attackers well. 8 Defense EVs make Type: Null's Defense an even number, which gives it additional Defense thanks to Eviolite. Eviolite helps to maximize Type: Null's bulk, giving it more durability and making its defensive role easier. Battle Armor complements Type: Null's defensive presence by preventing critical hits from attackers. This is especially good for this set, as Type: Null will be able to take advantage of its Iron Defense boosts much more safely.

Usage Tips
========

Type: Null should prioritize on its defensive role of blanket checking special attackers like Jynx, Alolan Exeggutor, and Silvally-Dragon. Given Type: Null's ability to absorb status, pivoting into potential status-inducing moves from Pokemon like Lilligant and Alolan Dugtrio early-game can alleviate pressure for teammates. Swords Dance can be used in many situations, whether it's to beat passive Pokemon like Clefairy and Altaria, take advantage of forced switches from special attackers, or attempt a late-game sweep. One must avoid attempting to sweep if Ghost-types are present, however. Luring in Ghost types via double switching and then Pursuit trapping them with partners like Skuntank can net a key advantage that can pave the way for a sweep. Capitalize on Fighting-type switch-ins by gradually weakening them down with repeated use of Return. Using Rest when Type: Null is low on health is always important to maintain opportunities to sweep and to check special attackers. It helps whenever possible to scout for Knock Off on Pokemon Type: Null is supposed to check, like Clefairy and Mesprit, as having its item removed drastically reduces its durability. Iron Defense can be great for outlasting checks like Hitmonchan and Aggron as well taking on the likes of Stoutland better, but be wary about giving up free turns, as sets without Sleep Talk are more prone to having their helplessness taken advantage of.

Team Options
========

Checks to Fighting-types are important to have, especially checks to Gurdurr and Throh, since unlike most others they can overcome Iron Defense variants of Type: Null with their attacks and boosting moves. Bulky Oricorio-G and defensive Mesprit are among the most reliable Fighting-type answers in general, and they can also also pressure other Pokemon like Weezing and, in Mesprit's case, set up Stealth Rock and support Type: Null with Healing Wish. Pursuit trappers, most notably Spiritomb and Skuntank, are extremely useful in removing Ghost-type Pokemon that would otherwise impede Type: Null's sweep. Flying checks that can account for Oricorio-G, such as Togedemaru and Oricorio-E, are great to have for checking this high-profile threat to Type: Null. Pokemon that can deal with Type: Null's Normal-resistant checks include Mudsdale, Poliwrath, and Regirock, which can check Pokemon like Aggron, Lycanroc, and Omastar to varying degrees. Entry hazard control is ideal to alleviate the issue with chip damage that comes from Type: Null's lack of reliable recovery, with options like Lurantis, Skuntank, and Silvally-Water all sharing good synergy; Skuntank absorbs Toxic Spikes and traps Ghost-types, Lurantis beats Gurdurr and threatens Rock- and Steel-type Pokemon, and Silvally-Water also threatens Rock- and Steel-types, beats Qwilfish, and can pivot with Parting Shot. Physically defensive Pokemon like Tangela and Sableye are good Pokemon to fall back on when in need of cushions or checks to strong physical attackers. Knock Off sponges to preserve Type: Null's Eviolite such as Absol, Silvally-Fairy, and Poliwrath are good partners; Absol heavily punishes bulky Ghost-types like Sableye and Calm Mind Spiritomb, Silvally-Fairy is adept at checking Fighting-types and is immune to Trick and Switcheroo, and Poliwrath is potent at checking Aggron and threatening other Rock- and Steel-types. Swords Dance Type: Null can also really appreciate Toxic Spikes, since it helps wear down grounded Ghost types like Sableye and non-Rest Spiritomb throughout the match. Weezing and Qwilfish are prime setters and serve as great catch-all Fighting-type checks.

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

Toxic is a solid catch-all tool for punishing bulky Pokemon and can pressure many Ghost- and Rock-type switch-ins. This does let Gurdurr activate Guts as it switches in, unfortunately, and Toxic also invites in Pokemon like Aggron and Qwilfish, which can handle both Toxic and Return. Punishment can pressure Ghost-type setup sweepers like bulky Calm Mind Oricorio-G and Calm Mind Spiritomb after some Calm Mind boosts but is a very inconsistent option otherwise. Hidden Power Ground with a Sassy nature has a chance to OHKO Aggron after Stealth Rock, hits Alolan Sandslash and Probopass hard, and punishes Omastar that tries to use Type: Null as setup fodder but forgoes pivoting or the ability to set up. Pursuit can be reliable for trapping frail Psychic- and Ghost-types like Haunter and Jynx, but it pales in comparison to U-turn with utility otherwise, and Type: Null still loses to Oricorio-G and Spiritomb.

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

**Ghost-types**: Type: Null is walled by Ghost-types such as Sableye, Oricorio-G, Misdreavus due to its lack of a strong attack against them, rendering it completely forced out. Furthermore, many of them can disable Type: Null's form of recovery with Taunt, while other options like Haunter can cripple Type: Null entirely with Trick, although Life Orb variants will eventually KO themselves in a one-on-one scenario without Pain Split. Spiritomb and Oricorio-G can also use Type: Null as setup fodder with Calm Mind.

**Fighting-types**: Fighting-types such as Primeape, Hitmonchan, and Crabominable heavily punish Type: Null with their damage output thanks to their super effective STAB moves, although they won't appreciate constantly switching in on Return, nor will they have the adequate means of breaking past Iron Defense boosts. Pokemon like Gurdurr and Throh are much bulkier and can also pressure Type: Null by removing its Eviolite with Knock Off, using it as setup fodder with Bulk Up, or removing boosts with Circle Throw in Throh's case.

**Rock- and Steel-types**: While Rock- and Steel-types that resist Return can still be beaten given most lack the recovery needed to combat Swords Dance variants, the ones with offensive presence can usually overpower Type: Null in its setup process, whether it be breakers like Aggron and Choice Specs Aurorus or setup sweepers like Lycanroc, Alolan Sandslash, and Omastar. Barring Omastar and Aurorus, these Pokemon may experience problems breaking past Iron Defense variants, however. Regirock is notable for actively walling pivot variants all game and safely setting up Stealth Rock against them, but it loses to Swords Dance sets.

**Loss of Eviolite**: Without its Eviolite, Type: Null cannot use its bulk to reliably check stronger special attackers and is particularly vulnerable to being pressured by Pokemon it tries to check like Clefairy, Eelektross, and Mesprit with Knock Off. Trick and Switcheroo Choice users such as Manectric, Dusknoir, and the aforementioned Mesprit are problematic for that same reason while also locking Type: Null into a move it uses.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[jklioe, 424692]]
- Quality checked by: [[Taskr, 257882], [Darkinium, 448296], [allstarapology, 400292]]
- Grammar checked by: [[The Dutch Plumberjack, 232216], [A Cake Wearing A Hat, 388157]]
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Catch this am

Taken from yogi and 2xTheTap by lethal force

QC: ? / ? / ?
GP: ? / ?


[OVERVIEW]
  • One of the bulkiest Pokemon in PU, being a blanket check to special attackers such as Lilligant, Mesprit, Swanna, Jynx, and more. Usable physical bulk which not only can be augmented even further by Iron Defense but allows it to check weaker physical attackers like Skuntank, Togedemaru, and Alolan Dugtrio.
  • Can act as a slow, bulky pivot with U-Turn to create switch in opportunities for teammates.
  • Can also be a potent late-game wincon that uses its defenses and ability to set up with ease
  • Reliable status absorber
  • Dependence on Pursuit support to remove Ghost-types, and is often checked by powerful Fighting-types
  • Reliant on Eviolite, leaving it vulnerable to Knock Off and Trick
  • Easily stopped by users of Taunt when it tries to use Rest or Sleep Talk
  • Can also be set up on by Pokemon resistant to Normal-type moves, such as Lycanroc, Omastar, and Carracosta
  • Rock- and Steel-types that resist Type: Null can still be beaten given most lack the recovery needed to combat it
  • Faces competition in other late-game wincons like Calm Mind Spiritomb or Curse Munchlax could go a little in-depth, crotomb has better pp stalling capabilities and useful immunities which aids in setup and also has solid neutral coverage in dark, lax has thick fat which lets it set up more easily on auro
  • Regardless, can be a nice bulky team player that can offer great pivot support or a strong presence as a bulky setup sweeper.
  • Normal isn't too solid of a defensive typing due to Fighting-types being relatively common, while no other weaknesses is nice it definitely pales in comparison to the other wincons you mentioned.
[SET]
name: Bulky Pivot
move 1: U-Turn
move 2: Return
move 3: Rest
move 4: Sleep Talk
item: Eviolite
ability: Battle Armor
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 8 Def / 248 SpD

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
  • U-Turn is safe for pivoting out against faster Pokemon or unfavorable switch-ins examples of unfavorable matchups?
  • Return is a strong, reliable STAB move that does respectable damage off of Type: Null's base 95 Attack.
  • Rest is its main form of recovery that can also cure all status ailments
  • Sleep Talk lets Type: Null act while it is asleep, and can potentially use it to pivot out of Pokemon that try to take advantage of its status

Set Details
========

  • Full investment in HP and Special Defense maximizes Type: Null's bulk to accomplish its role as a strong catch-all check to special attackers
  • 8 Defense is an even number that gives it two extra points thanks to the Eviolite boost
  • Eviolite bolsters Type: Null's defenses, allowing it to do its job defensively
  • Battle Armor is great for making Type: Null's job more reliable, preventing critical hits from attackers

Usage Tips
========
  • Pivot into strong special attackers and users of status inducing moves
  • U-Turn is safe to click on predicted switches to avoid unfavorable match ups and to also get in wallbreakers or Pokemon that punish those switch ins
  • Return for consistent damage is nice when resists are lacking
  • Rest when weakened is important to keep it healthy to check special attackers, force switches, and pivot as much as it can
  • Finding opportunities to burn sleep turn is advised, and can be possible given the large amount of Pokemon that Type: Null isn't significantly damaged by
  • Can afford to safely use Sleep Talk due to the possibility of pivoting out thanks to U-Turn
Team Options
========
  • Fighting-type checks are top-priority, including Qwilfish, Mesprit, Froslass, Scyther, Oricorios, etc. Mention how stuff like qwil/lass can set spikes to chip said fighting types, lass can burn chan/ape, and mesprit can healing wish null in scenarios where it's low health and hasn't burnt off 2 sleep turns
  • Pursuit trappers include Skuntank, Spiritomb
  • Strong checks to Oricorio-G include Togedemaru, Oricorio-E, Lycanroc
  • Solid pivot cores include Primeape, Lanturn, Eelektross
  • Wallbreakers that appreciate safe switch-ins include Aggron, Omastar, and Aurorus
  • Physically defensive Pokemon like Tangela, Regirock, or Gurdurr can cushion hits from breakers like Aggron and Stoutland better
  • Hazard control from Pokemon like Skuntank, Swanna, Rotom-F are solid
  • Mention Knock Off switch-ins. Helmet Weezing can punish most users of said move for example

[SET]
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Return
move 3: Rest
move 4: Sleep Talk / Iron Defense
item: Eviolite
ability: Battle Armor
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 8 Def / 248 SpD

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
  • Swords Dance boosts Type: Null's Attack by two stages and lets it break through bulky Pokemon like Mudsdale, Clefairy, and Weezing more efficiently, making it a deadly breaker and set-up sweeper. Weezing may taunt you though, any other example?
  • Return is a powerful STAB option that is decently powerful while having no drawbacksh. Also has high PP count which is good for a wincon
  • Rest gives Type: Null a recovery option at the cost of making it asleep for a few turns, restoring all health and curing status.
  • Sleep Talk lets Type: Null use its moves while it's asleep, which can be great for accumulating Swords Dance boosts or firing off powerful Returns.
  • Iron Defense increases Type: Null's Defense, allowing it to outlast physical attackers such as Hitmonchan or Aggron that can otherwise break through it. "Outlast" wouldn't really describe aggron in this situation because it absolutely demolishes you unless you were able to set up prior or it misses a bunch. Either change the word or the mon

Set Details
========
  • Full investment in HP and Special Defense gives Type: Null the role of blanket checking special attackers and using them as set up fodder examples?
  • Eviolite helps to maximize Type: Null's bulk, giving it more durability and making its defensive role easier.
  • Battle Armor compliments Type: Null's defensive presence by preventing critical hits from attackers. Makes Iron Defense much more reliable as well

Usage Tips
========
  • Type: Null should prioritize on its defensive role of blanket checking special attackers like Mesprit, Jynx, and Lilligant Lilli is an odd one if you're not running sleep talk or uturn like the previous set. Grass Z has a solid chance of beating stalk-less null if it's lucky with sleep powder (edited this part to make my point flow better.)
  • Given Type: Null's ability to absorb status, pivoting into potential status moves early-game can alleviate pressure for teammates
  • Swords Dance can be used in many situations, whether it's to break through Pokemon like Clefairy and Altaria or attempt a late-game sweep. One must avoid attempting a sweep if Ghost-types are present, however.
  • Fighting-type checks can gradually be worn down by repeated use of Return
  • Using Rest when low is always important to maintain opportunities to sweep and to check special attackers
  • It helps to scout for Knock Off on Pokemon Type: Null is supposed to check, like Clefairy or Mesprit examples of Pokemon that can scout well?
  • Iron Defense can be great for outlasting Hitmonchan and Aggron as well as take on the likes of Stoutland better, but be wary about giving up free turns, as sets without Sleep Talk are more prone to its helplessness being taken advantage of
  • Talk about how you want rocks/steels weakened and ghosts removed prior to setting up.
  • Taunt is much more of an issue with this set since it can't pivot out with U-turn on the taunt.

Team Options
========
  • Pursuit trappers, most notably Spiritomb and Skuntank
  • Flying resists that can account for Oricorio-G, such as Togedemaru and Oricorio-E
  • Knock Off sponges to preserve its Eviolite so it maintains its setup potential, Absol, Silvally, and Poliwrath
  • Checks to Fighting-types like Oricorio-G and Mesprit.
  • Pokemon that can check Normal-resistant Pokemon that can pressure Type: Null include Pokemon like Mudsdale, Poliwrath, Regirock which can check Pokemon like Aggron, Lycanroc, and Omastar to varying degrees you could mention smth like Weezing here since it also sets tspikes which is amazing for null given the turns it needs for setup
  • Hazard control is ideal to alleviate the issue with chip damage due to Type: Null's lack of reliable recovery, with options like Lurantis, Skuntank, and Silvally-Water all sharing good synergy.
  • Physically defensive Pokemon like Tangela, Qwilfish, and Sableye are good Pokemon to fall back on when in need of cushions or checks to strong physical attackers

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
  • Toxic is a solid catch-all tool for punishing bulky Pokemon, and can pressure many Ghost- and Rock-type switch-ins. This does enable Gurdurr switch-ins by activating Guts, unfortunately.
  • Punishment can punish Ghost-type set up sweepers like bulky Calm Mind Oricorio-G and Calm Mind Spiritomb, but is less consistent otherwise
  • Hidden Power Ground with a Sassy nature has a chance to OHKO Aggron after Stealth Rock, hits Alolan Sandslash and Probopass hard, and punishes Omastar that tries to use Type: Null as set up fodder but forgoes pivoting or the ability to set up. Also makes null way weaker against neutral targets without return
  • Tri Attack + Work Up downsides to this? not being able to break through cm clef could be an issue for instance, as with doing less to av chan/eel and needing more uses to become offensively threatening
  • Pursuit can be reliable for trapping frail Psychic- and Ghost-types like Haunter and Jynx, but pales in comparison to U-Turn with utility otherwise

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

**Ghost-types**: Type: Null is walled by Ghost-types such as Sableye, Oricorio-G, Misdeavus due to its lack of options for strong damage output against them, rendering it completely forced out. Furthermore, many of them can disable Type: Null's form of recovery with Taunt, while other options like Haunter can cripple Type: Null entirely with Trick. Spiritomb can also use Type: Null as setup fodder with Calm Mind. Ori-G can too alongside taunt.

**Fighting-types**: Fighting-types such as Primeape, Hitmonchan, and Crabominale heavily punish Type: Null with their damage output thanks to their super effective STAB moves, although they won't appreciate constantly switching in on Return nor will have the adequate means of breaking past Iron Defense boosts. Pokemon like Gurdurr and Throh are much bulkier and can also pressure it by removing Type: Null's Eviolite with Knock Off or using it as setup fodder with Bulk Up.

**Rock- and Steel-types**: While Rock- and Steel-types that resist Return can still be beaten given most lack the recovery needed to combat Swords Dance variants, the ones with offensive presence can usually overpower Type: Null in its setup process, whether its breakers like Aggron and Choice Specs Aurorus or set up sweepers like Lycanroc, Alolan Sandslash, and Omastar. Barring Omastar and Aurorus, these Pokemon may experience problems breaking past Iron Defense variants, however. Regirock is notable for actively walling pivot variants all game, and thus can safely set up Stealth Rock.

**Knock Off users**: Without its Eviolite, Type: Null cannot use its bulk to reliably check stronger special attackers, and is particularly vulnerable to being lured or pressured by Pokemon it tries to check like Clefairy, Eelektross, or Mesprit.
Not much to be honest, pretty solid work here!
 
Last edited:
Taken from yogi and 2xTheTap by lethal force

QC: ? / ? / ?
GP: ? / ?


[OVERVIEW]
  • One of the bulkiest Pokemon in PU, being a blanket check to special attackers such as Lilligant, Mesprit, Swanna, Jynx, and more. Usable physical bulk which not only can be augmented even further by Iron Defense but allows it to check weaker physical attackers like Skuntank, Togedemaru, and Alolan Dugtrio.
  • Can act as a slow, bulky pivot with U-Turn to create switch in opportunities for teammates. Emphasise that you're most likely going to be bringing in wallbreakers and mention some.
  • Can also be a potent late-game wincon that uses its defenses and ability to set up with ease the inability to crit it too could be a nice mention here
  • Reliable status absorber
  • Dependence on Pursuit support to remove Ghost-types, and is often checked by powerful Fighting-types such as?
  • Reliant on Eviolite, leaving it vulnerable to Knock Off and Trick
  • Easily stopped by users of Taunt when it tries to use Rest or Sleep Talk which taunt users?
  • Can also be set up on by Pokemon resistant to Normal-type moves, such as Lycanroc, Omastar, and Carracosta
  • Rock- and Steel-types that resist Type: Null can still be beaten given most lack the recovery needed to combat it
  • Faces competition in other late-game wincons like Calm Mind Spiritomb or Curse Munchlax how does it differ? (e.g. what does it to better, what does it do worse?)
  • Regardless, can be a nice bulky team player that can offer great pivot support or a strong presence as a bulky setup sweeper. this line has already been mentioned, idt u need it
[SET]
name: Bulky Pivot
move 1: U-Turn
move 2: Return
move 3: Rest
move 4: Sleep Talk
item: Eviolite
ability: Battle Armor
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 8 Def / 248 SpD

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
  • U-Turn is safe for pivoting out against faster Pokemon or unfavorable switch-ins
  • Return is a strong, reliable STAB move that does respectable damage off of Type: Null's base 95 Attack.
  • Rest is its main form of recovery that can also cure all status ailments
  • Sleep Talk lets Type: Null act while it is asleep, and can potentially use it to pivot out of Pokemon that try to take advantage of its status allows it to not be as passive

Set Details
========

  • Full investment in HP and Special Defense with a Careful nature maximizes Type: Null's bulk to accomplish its role as a strong catch-all check to special attackers
  • 8 Defense is an even number that gives it two extra points thanks to the Eviolite boost
  • Eviolite bolsters Type: Null's defenses, allowing it to do its job defensively
  • Battle Armor is great for making Type: Null's job more reliable, preventing critical hits from attackers

Usage Tips
========
  • Pivot into strong special attackers and users of status inducing moves like?
  • U-Turn is safe to click on predicted switches to avoid unfavorable match ups and to also get in wallbreakers or Pokemon that punish those switch ins
  • Return for consistent damage is nice when resists are lacking
  • Rest when weakened is important to keep it healthy to check special attackers, force switches, and pivot as much as it can
  • Finding opportunities to burn sleep turn is advised, and can be possible given the large amount of Pokemon that Type: Null isn't significantly damaged by
  • Can afford to safely use Sleep Talk due to the possibility of pivoting out thanks to U-Turn
Team Options
========
  • Fighting-type checks are top-priority, including Qwilfish, Mesprit, Froslass, Scyther, Oricorios, etc.
  • Pursuit trappers include Skuntank, Spiritomb what do they trap?
  • Strong checks to Oricorio-G include Togedemaru, Oricorio-E, Lycanroc
  • Solid pivot cores include Primeape, Lanturn, Eelektross
  • Wallbreakers that appreciate safe switch-ins include Aggron, Omastar, and Aurorus
  • Physically defensive Pokemon like Tangela, Regirock, or Gurdurr can cushion hits from breakers like Aggron and Stoutland better
  • Hazard control from Pokemon like Skuntank, Swanna, Rotom-F are solid especially since it is a pivot that is vulnerable to Spikes and all other types of entry hazard.

[SET]
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Return
move 3: Rest
move 4: Sleep Talk / Iron Defense
item: Eviolite
ability: Battle Armor
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 8 Def / 248 SpD

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
  • Swords Dance boosts Type: Null's Attack by two stages and lets it break through bulky Pokemon like Mudsdale, Clefairy, and Weezing more efficiently, making it a deadly breaker and set-up sweeper.
  • Return is a powerful STAB option that is decently powerful while having no drawbacksh. drawback is being walled by ghosts
  • Rest gives Type: Null a recovery option at the cost of making it asleep for a few turns, restoring all health and curing status.
  • Sleep Talk lets Type: Null use its moves while it's asleep, which can be great for accumulating Swords Dance boosts or firing off powerful Returns.
  • Iron Defense increases Type: Null's Defense, allowing it to outlast physical attackers such as Hitmonchan or Aggron that can otherwise break through it. maybe mention the drawbacks of not having Sleep Talk (e.g. being more passive and letting mons set-up for free)

Set Details
========
  • Full investment in HP and Special Defense gives Type: Null the role of blanket checking special attackers and using them as set up fodder
  • Eviolite helps to maximize Type: Null's bulk, giving it more durability and making its defensive role easier.
  • Battle Armor compliments Type: Null's defensive presence by preventing critical hits from attackers. stress that this is especially good for this set as they can't crit through the Iron Defense boosts

Usage Tips
========
  • Type: Null should prioritize on its defensive role of blanket checking special attackers like Mesprit, Jynx, and Lilligant I think Mesprit is a bit of a weird mention since Defensive isn't usually a threat, CM often runs Psyshock which Null doesn't appreciate and Scarf/Specs can Trick why Null doesn't appreciate either.
  • Given Type: Null's ability to absorb status, pivoting into potential status moves early-game can alleviate pressure for teammates
  • Swords Dance can be used in many situations, whether it's to break through Pokemon like Clefairy and Altaria or attempt a late-game sweep. One must avoid attempting a sweep if Ghost-types are present, however.
  • Luring in Ghost types then pursuiting them is prob worth a mention here
  • Fighting-type checks can gradually be worn down by repeated use of Return
  • Using Rest when low is always important to maintain opportunities to sweep and to check special attackers
  • It helps to scout for Knock Off on Pokemon Type: Null is supposed to check, like Clefairy or Mesprit
  • Iron Defense can be great for outlasting Hitmonchan and Aggron as well as take on the likes of Stoutland better, but be wary about giving up free turns, as sets without Sleep Talk are more prone to its helplessness being taken advantage of

Team Options
========
  • Pursuit trappers, most notably Spiritomb and Skuntank why?
  • Flying resists that can account for Oricorio-G, such as Togedemaru and Oricorio-E
  • Knock Off sponges to preserve its Eviolite so it maintains its setup potential, Absol, Silvally, and Poliwrath
  • Checks to Fighting-types like Oricorio-G and Mesprit. namely Gurdurr and Throh since Null can beat most others with Iron Defense
  • Pokemon that can check Normal-resistant Pokemon that can pressure Type: Null include Pokemon like Mudsdale, Poliwrath, Regirock which can check Pokemon like Aggron, Lycanroc, and Omastar to varying degrees maybe reword this bit a little, doesn't roll off the tongue too well
  • Hazard control is ideal to alleviate the issue with chip damage due to Type: Null's lack of reliable recovery, with options like Lurantis, Skuntank, and Silvally-Water all sharing good synergy.
  • Physically defensive Pokemon like Tangela, Qwilfish, and Sableye are good Pokemon to fall back on when in need of cushions or checks to strong physical attackers
  • This Null can also really appreciate Toxic Spikes since you can poison grounded Ghost types like non-CM Spiritomb and Sableye and beat them 1v1.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
  • Toxic is a solid catch-all tool for punishing bulky Pokemon, and can pressure many Ghost- and Rock-type switch-ins. This does enable Gurdurr switch-ins by activating Guts, unfortunately.
  • Punishment can punish Ghost-type set up sweepers like bulky Calm Mind Oricorio-G and Calm Mind Spiritomb, but is less consistent otherwise
  • Hidden Power Ground with a Sassy nature has a chance to OHKO Aggron after Stealth Rock, hits Alolan Sandslash and Probopass hard, and punishes Omastar that tries to use Type: Null as set up fodder but forgoes pivoting or the ability to set up.
  • Tri Attack + Work Up
  • Pursuit can be reliable for trapping frail Psychic- and Ghost-types like Haunter and Jynx, but pales in comparison to U-Turn with utility otherwise
  • SD Flame Charge could possibly be an option?
  • Twave could work too maybe

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

**Ghost-types**: Type: Null is walled by Ghost-types such as Sableye, Oricorio-G, Misdeavus due to its lack of strong damage output against them, rendering it completely forced out. Furthermore, many of them can disable Type: Null's form of recovery with Taunt, while other options like Haunter can cripple Type: Null entirely with Trick. Spiritomb can also use Type: Null as setup fodder with Calm Mind.

**Fighting-types**: Fighting-types such as Primeape, Hitmonchan, and Crabominale heavily punish Type: Null with their damage output thanks to their super effective STAB moves, although they won't appreciate constantly switching in on Return nor will have the adequate means of breaking past Iron Defense boosts. Pokemon like Gurdurr and Throh are much bulkier and can also pressure it by removing Type: Null's Eviolite with Knock Off or using it as setup fodder with Bulk Up.

**Rock- and Steel-types**: While Rock- and Steel-types that resist Return can still be beaten given most lack the recovery needed to combat Swords Dance variants, the ones with offensive presence can usually overpower Type: Null in its setup process, whether its breakers like Aggron and Choice Specs Aurorus or set up sweepers like Lycanroc, Alolan Sandslash, and Omastar. Barring Omastar and Aurorus, these Pokemon may experience problems breaking past Iron Defense variants, however. Regirock is notable for actively walling pivot variants all game, and thus can safely set up Stealth Rock. mention that Regirock loses to the SD set tho

**Knock Off users**: Without its Eviolite, Type: Null cannot use its bulk to reliably check stronger special attackers, and is particularly vulnerable to being lured or pressured by Pokemon it tries to check like Clefairy, Eelektross, or Mesprit.
gj 1/3
 

Darkinium

the mighty nuaguunibi
Taken from yogi and 2xTheTap by lethal force

QC: ? / ? / ?
GP: ? / ?


[OVERVIEW]
  • One of the bulkiest Pokemon in PU, being a blanket check to special attackers such as Lilligant, Mesprit, Swanna, Jynx, and more. Usable physical bulk which not only can be augmented even further by Iron Defense but allows it to check weaker physical attackers like Skuntank, Togedemaru, and Alolan Dugtrio.
  • Although its base Speed sits on the lower end of the spectrum, its access to U-Turn allows it to act as a slow and bulky pivot that can create many opportunities for teammates to be safely brought in the field.
  • Type: Null’s access to Swords Dance lets it also be a potent late-game wincon that uses its defenses and ability to set up with ease, with Battle Armor’s utility also coming into play to enhance its sweeping opportunities. Does so by preventing crits which is the bane of slow, bulky setup mons.
  • Reliable status absorber Why?
  • Dependence on Pursuit support to remove Ghost-types and is often checked by powerful Fighting-types such as Gurdurr and Primeape. These two points aren't really related, I feel.
  • Reliant on Eviolite, leaving it vulnerable to Knock Off and Trick Expand on this point. What Pokemon use those moves? Does it hamper its ability to check threats?
  • Easily stopped by users of Taunt examples when it tries to use Rest or Sleep Talk
  • Can also be set up on by Pokemon resistant to Normal-type moves, such as Lycanroc, Omastar, and Carracosta
  • Rock- and Steel-types such as? that resist Type: Null can still be beaten given most lack the recovery needed to combat it because they'll eventually drop to +6 Returns. Kinda obvious but worth pointing out for new guys who might not know why Null wins the 1v1.
  • Faces competition in other late-game wincons like Calm Mind Spiritomb or Curse Munchlax, both of which have different typing or abilities that grant it a set of resistances or immunities that Type: Null lacks
  • Regardless, is overall a nice bulky team player with decent role compression for a wide range of playstyles.
[SET]
name: Bulky Pivot
move 1: U-Turn
move 2: Return
move 3: Rest
move 4: Sleep Talk
item: Eviolite
ability: Battle Armor
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 8 Def / 248 SpD

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
  • U-Turn is safe for pivoting out against faster Pokemon or unfavorable switch-ins like? while also gaining momentum.
  • Return is a strong, reliable STAB move that does respectable damage off Type: Null's base 95 Attack. Don't name the base stats' quantities, they're already at the top of the dex page
  • Rest is its main form of recovery that can also cure all status ailments
  • Sleep Talk lets Type: Null act while it is asleep, and can potentially use it to pivot out of Pokemon that try to take advantage of its status, allowing it to not be as passive
Set Details
========

  • Full investment in HP and Special Defense with a Careful nature maximizes Type: Null's bulk to carry out its role as a strong catch-all check to special attackers Examples of Pokemon it wants to check?
  • 8 Defense is an even number that gives it two extra points thanks to the Eviolite boost
  • Eviolite bolsters Type: Null's defenses, allowing it to do its job defensively
  • Battle Armor is great for making Type: Null's job as a wall more reliable, preventing critical hits from attackers

Usage Tips
========
  • Pivot into strong special attackers and users of status inducing moves like Lilligant, Lanturn, Swanna, and Altaria.
  • Generating momentum is Type: Null's other main role, where U-Turn is safe to use on predicted switches to avoid unfavorable match ups and to also get in wallbreakers or Pokemon that punish those switch ins
  • Return for consistent damage is nice when resists are lacking
  • Rest when weakened is important to keep it healthy to check special attackers, force switches, and pivot as much as it can
  • Finding opportunities to burn sleep turn is advised, and can be possible given the large amount of Pokemon that Type: Null isn't significantly damaged by
  • Is often in a position to safely use Sleep Talk due to the possibility of pivoting out thanks to U-Turn
  • Being wary of Knock Off, Trick, and Taunt
Team Options
========
  • Fighting-type checks are top-priority, including Qwilfish, Mesprit, Froslass, Scyther, Oricorios, etc. Do they complement each other outside of checking Fighting-types?
  • Pursuit trappers include Skuntank, Spiritomb can help to remove problematic Ghost-types immune to Return, especially from the likes of Haunter and Oricorio-G.
  • Strong checks to Oricorio-G include Togedemaru, Oricorio-E, Lycanroc same as the first bullet
  • Solid pivot cores include Primeape, Lanturn, Eelektross
  • Wallbreakers that appreciate safe switch-ins include Aggron, Omastar, and Aurorus
  • Physically defensive Pokemon like Tangela, Regirock, or Gurdurr can cushion hits from breakers like Aggron and Stoutland better
  • Hazard control from Pokemon like Skuntank, Swanna, Rotom-F are solid especially since Type: Null is a pivot that is vulnerable to Spikes and all other types of entry hazard. Often invites Qwilfish and Froslass in for free. They also support Type: Null in other ways, including Skuntank's aforementioned Pursuit support, Swanna's dual STAB and special attacking prowess that can pressure Rock- and Fighting-types like Regirock, Aggron, and Hitmonchan, and Rotom-F's pivoting core with it own Volt Switch.
  • Pokemon that switch into Knock Off easily alleviate pressure for Type: Null, with options that include Rocky Helmet Weezing, Silvally-Fairy, and Sableye, pressuring users like Gurdurr and Zangoose.
Some of the points are pretty bare. Would like to see more stuff like the bullet about hazard control; that is, if and how the suggested partners synergize with Null outside of the one listed purpose.

[SET]
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Return
move 3: Rest
move 4: Sleep Talk / Iron Defense
item: Eviolite
ability: Battle Armor
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 8 Def / 248 SpD

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
  • Swords Dance boosts Type: Null's Attack by two stages and lets it break through bulky Pokemon like Mudsdale and Clefairy more efficiently, making it a deadly breaker and set-up sweeper. Finds many opportunities to set up versus certain Pokemon thanks to good bulk
  • Return is a Type: Null’s most powerful STAB option, dealing respectable damage to most targets off its base 95 attack. Same thing as the other description, don't list off numbers. Return's also Null's sweeping tool
  • Rest gives Type: Null a recovery option at the cost of making it asleep for a few turns, restoring all health and curing status.
  • Sleep Talk lets Type: Null use its moves while it's asleep, which can be great for accumulating Swords Dance boosts or firing off powerful Returns. Makes it less passive
  • Iron Defense increases Type: Null's Defense, allowing it to outlast physical attackers such as Hitmonchan or Aggron that can otherwise break through it. It does, however, come with the drawback of being more passive and enabling Pokemon to take advantage of it due to forgoing Sleep Talk.

Set Details
========
  • Full investment in HP and Special Defense gives Type: Null the role of blanket checking special attackers and using them as set up fodder
  • Mention the Defense because it actually has a specific purpose
  • Eviolite helps to maximize Type: Null's bulk, giving it more durability and making its defensive role easier.
  • Battle Armor compliments Type: Null's defensive presence by preventing critical hits from attackers. This is especially good for this set as Type: Null will be able to take advantage of its Iron Defense boosts without fear of crits.
Usage Tips
========
  • Type: Null should prioritize on its defensive role of blanket checking special attackers like Jynx, Lilligant, and Silvally-Dragon.
  • Given Type: Null's ability to absorb status, pivoting into potential status moves early-game can alleviate pressure for teammates
  • Swords Dance can be used in many situations, whether it's to break through Pokemon like Clefairy and Altaria or attempt a late-game sweep. One must avoid attempting a sweep if Ghost-types are present, however. Sets up on passive mons
  • Luring in Ghost types via double switching and then Pursuit-trapping them with partners like Skuntank can net a key advantage that can pave for a sweep.
  • Fighting-type checks remove the word checks can gradually be worn down by repeated use of Return
  • Using Rest when low is always important to maintain opportunities to sweep and to check special attackers
  • It helps to scout for Knock Off on Pokemon Type: Null is supposed to check, like Clefairy or Mesprit
  • Iron Defense can be great for outlasting Hitmonchan and Aggron as well as take on the likes of Stoutland better, but be wary about giving up free turns, as sets without Sleep Talk are more prone to its helplessness being taken advantage of

Team Options
========
  • Pursuit trappers, most notably Spiritomb and Skuntank, are extremely useful in removing Ghost-type Pokemon examples that would otherwise impede Type: Null's sweep.
  • Flying resists that can account for Oricorio-G, such as Togedemaru and Oricorio-E, are great to have for checking this high-profile threat to Type: Null.
  • Knock Off sponges to preserve its Eviolite include Absol, Silvally-Fairy, and Poliwrath
  • Checks to Fighting-types are important to have, especially Gurdurr and Throh since unlike most others they can overcome Iron Defense variants of Type: Null with BU, Knock, and Circle Throw. Bulky Oricorio-G and Defensive Mesprit are bread-and-butter Pokemon that are among the most reliable Fighting-type answers in general, while also pressuring other Pokemon like Weezing and in Mesprit’s case, setting up Stealth Rock and supporting with Healing Wish.
  • Pokemon that can deal with Type: Null's Normal-resistant checks include Mudsdale, Poliwrath, and Regirock which can check Pokemon like Aggron, Lycanroc, and Omastar to varying degrees.
  • Hazard control is ideal to alleviate the issue with chip damage due to Type: Null's lack of reliable recovery also invites setters in for free, with options like Lurantis, Skuntank, and Silvally-Water all sharing good synergy.
  • Physically defensive Pokemon like Tangela, Qwilfish, and Sableye are good Pokemon to fall back on when in need of cushions or checks to strong physical attackers
  • Swords Dance Null can also really appreciate Toxic Spikes since it helps wear down poison grounded Ghost types like non-CM Spiritomb and Sableye throughout the match. Weezing and Qwilfish are prime setters, while serving as great catch-all Fighting-type checks.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
  • Toxic is a solid catch-all tool for punishing bulky Pokemon, and can pressure many Ghost- and Rock-type switch-ins. This does enable Gurdurr switch-ins by activating Guts, unfortunately. As well as Pokemon who don't care for Toxic + Return, like Aggron and Qwil
  • Punishment can punish Ghost-type set up sweepers like bulky Calm Mind Oricorio-G and Calm Mind Spiritomb, but is less consistent otherwise
  • Hidden Power Ground with a Sassy nature has a chance to OHKO Aggron after Stealth Rock, hits Alolan Sandslash and Probopass hard, and punishes Omastar that tries to use Type: Null as set up fodder but forgoes pivoting or the ability to set up.
  • Tri Attack + Work Up no description
  • Pursuit can be reliable for trapping frail Psychic- and Ghost-types like Haunter and Jynx, but pales in comparison to U-Turn with utility otherwise and still flops vs Sensu and Tomb
  • Thunder Wave cripples the Speed of opposing Pokemon but is less effective at dealing with defensive switch-ins than other options and much like Toxic, is easily capitalized by Gurdurr.
Checks and Counters
===================

**Ghost-types**: Type: Null is walled by Ghost-types such as Sableye, Oricorio-G, Misdeavus due to its lack of strong damage output against them, rendering it completely forced out. Furthermore, many of them can disable Type: Null's form of recovery with Taunt, while other options like Haunter can cripple Type: Null entirely with Trick, although LO variants kill themselves 1v1 unless Pain Split. Spiritomb and Sensu can also use Type: Null as setup fodder with Calm Mind. Most Ghosts don't appreciate the occasional Toxic

**Fighting-types**: Fighting-types such as Primeape, Hitmonchan, and Crabominale heavily punish Type: Null with their damage output thanks to their super effective STAB moves, although they won't appreciate constantly switching in on Return nor will have the adequate means of breaking past Iron Defense boosts. Pokemon like Gurdurr and Throh are much bulkier and can also pressure it by removing Type: Null's Eviolite with Knock Off or using it as setup fodder with Bulk Up. or removing boosts with Circle Throw in Throh's case

**Rock- and Steel-types**: While Rock- and Steel-types that resist Return can still be beaten given most lack the recovery needed to combat Swords Dance variants, the ones with offensive presence can usually overpower Type: Null in its setup process, whether its breakers like Aggron and Choice Specs Aurorus or set up sweepers like Lycanroc, Alolan Sandslash, and Omastar. Barring Omastar and Aurorus, these Pokemon may experience problems breaking past Iron Defense variants, however. Regirock is notable for actively walling pivot variants all game, and thus can safely set up Stealth Rock. but gets 1v1ed by setup sets, or Toxic

**Knock Off users**: Without its Eviolite, Type: Null cannot use its bulk to reliably check stronger special attackers, and is particularly vulnerable to being lured or pressured by Pokemon it tries to check like Clefairy, Eelektross, or Mesprit.
Darkinium-QC-small.gif

2/3
 

asa

is a Site Content Manageris a Community Leaderis a Community Contributoris a Tiering Contributoris a Top Contributoris a Social Media Contributor Alumnus
PU Leader

[OVERVIEW]

Type: Null is one of the bulkiest Pokemon in PU, blanket checking to special attackers such as Lilligant, Mesprit, Swanna, Jynx, and more. It also has usable physical bulk which not only can be further augmented by Iron Defense but allows it to check weaker physical attackers like Skuntank, Togedemaru, and Alolan Dugtrio. Although Type: Null’s base Speed sits on the lower end of the spectrum, its access to U-Turn lets it use said Speed to act as a slow and bulky pivot that creates many opportunities for teammates to be safely brought in the field. Alternatively, Swords Dance makes Type: Null a potent late-game wincon that uses its defenses to set up with ease, with Battle Armor’s utility also coming into play by preventing critical hits, enhancing its sweeping opportunities. In addition, Type: Null’s nature of a sturdy RestTalk user makes it very reliable as a status absorber for its team. Unfortunately, Type: Null’s reliance on its STAB makes it highly dependent on Pursuit support to remove Ghost-types, with that same typing giving it a weakness that leaves it checked by powerful Fighting-types like Gurdurr and Primeape. Furthermore, Eviolite is integral for consistently checking stronger special attackers such as..., making it susceptible to Knock Off and Trick. Type: Null is often on the defensive when it needs to heal, in which users of Taunt easily stop it when it tries to use Rest or Sleep Talk. While Type: Null can beat certain Rock- and Steel-types due to eventually being overpowered by boosted Returns and outlasted by Type: Null’s recovery, notable exceptions include Lycanroc, Omastar, Carracosta and Aggron, which can all either use it as setup fodder or break through it first. It can face competition with other late-game wincons like Calm Mind Spiritomb or Curse Munchlax, both of which have different typing or abilities that grant it a set of resistances or immunities that Type: Null lacks. Regardless, Type: Null is a nice bulky team player with decent role compression for a wide range of playstyles.

Certain points here as well as throughout the analysis (example: blanket checking to special attackers) still sort of feel like bullet points rather than 100% thought out setences. Be sure to go back and look for them before sending this to GP.

[SET]
name: Bulky Pivot
move 1: U-Turn (U-turn. Seems minor, but U-Turn actually fucks with the dex. Be sure to fix that every time it happens, too.)
move 2: Return
move 3: Rest
move 4: Sleep Talk
item: Eviolite
ability: Battle Armor
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 8 Def / 248 SpD

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

U-Turn is strong tool for applying momentum, pivoting out against faster Pokemon or switch ins from unfavorable match ups like Froslass, Regirock, and Aggron. Return is a strong, reliable STAB move that deals respectable damage to most non-resistant targets. Rest is Type: Null’s main form of recovery that can also cure all status ailments at the cast of falling asleep for a few turns. Sleep Talk lets Type: Null act while it is asleep, and its use could potentially let it to pivot out of Pokemon that try to take advantage of its status, allowing it to not be as passive.

Set Details
========

Full investment in HP and Special Defense with a Careful nature maximizes Type: Null's bulk to carry out its role as a strong catch-all sponge to special attackers. Eviolite further increases Type: Null's defenses, allowing it to do its job defensively. 8 Defense is an even number that gives it two extra points thanks to the Eviolite boost. Battle Armor is great for making Type: Null's job as a wall more reliable, preventing critical hits from attackers.

Usage Tips
========

Type: Null should pivot into strong special attackers and users of status inducing moves like Lilligant, Lanturn, Swanna, and Altaria. Beyond that, generating momentum is Type: Null's other key role, where U-Turn is safe to use on predicted switches to avoid unfavorable match ups, whether it is bulky Pokemon like Regirock and Qwilfish or Fighting-types that comfortably take Return like Gurdurr. From there, it should use that opportunity to get in wallbreakers or Pokemon that can threaten them out. In other cases, Return can be nice for consistent damage is nice when resists are lacking. Using Rest when weakened is important to keep it healthy to check special attackers, force switches, and pivot around. as much as it can. When asleep, finding opportunities to burn sleep turns is recommended, and can be possible given the large amount of Pokemon that Type: Null is not significantly damaged by. It is often able to safely use Sleep Talk due to being able of pivoting out thanks to U-Turn, making it less passive. Lastly, Type: Null should be wary of foes like Mesprit with Knock Off or Trick, and should play around users Taunt sparingly, as it can punish attempts of resting.

Team Options
========

Fighting-type checks are top-priority, which include Pokemon like Qwilfish, Mesprit, Froslass, and Scyther; Qwilfish and Froslass can set up Spikes to chip down said Fighting-types, Mesprit can support with Stealth Rock and use Healing Wish in situations where Type: Null is weakened and hasn’t burned enough sleep turns, and Scyther appreciates Type: Null’s status absorbing and can form a strong pivoting core alongside it. Pursuit trappers include Skuntank, Spiritomb can help to remove problematic Ghost-types immune to Return, especially from the likes of Haunter and Oricorio-G. Other strong checks to Oricorio-G include Togedemaru, Oricorio-E, Lycanroc, which all appreciate Type: Null bringing them in safely with U-Turn to apply safe offensive pressure on their own. Type: Null pairs well with other pivoting cores which can include Primeape, Lanturn, and Eelektross, all of which they can use their own offensive typing, utility, and strong attacking moves to force out switches. Wallbreakers that appreciate safe switch-ins include Aggron, Omastar, and Aurorus. (kinda what i meant by certain points not being fully expanded on after writing it up.) Physically defensive Pokemon like Tangela, Regirock, or Gurdurr form a good defensive core with Type: Null, as they can cushion hits from physical breakers like Aggron and Stoutland better. Hazard control from Pokemon like Skuntank, Swanna, Rotom-F are solid since Type: Null is a pivot that is vulnerable to Spikes and all other types of entry hazard. They can also threaten the likes of Qwilfish and Froslass, two Spikes setters that Type: Null often invites in for free. They also support Type: Null in other ways, including Skuntank's Pursuit support, Swanna's dual STAB and special attacking prowess that can pressure Rock- and Fighting-types like Regirock, Aggron, and Hitmonchan, and Rotom-F's pivoting core with its own Volt Switch. Pokemon that switch into Knock Off easily alleviate pressure for Type: Null, with options that include Rocky Helmet Weezing, Silvally-Fairy, (also immune to trick, which can be useful in certain instances.) and Sableye, pressuring users like Gurdurr and Zangoose. (nitpicky, but some clarity regarding what kind of teams type: null tends to fit on would be nice imo, as there's recommendations ranging from offensive mons to defensive mons.)

[SET]
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Return
move 3: Rest
move 4: Sleep Talk / Iron Defense
item: Eviolite
ability: Battle Armor
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 8 Def / 248 SpD

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

Swords Dance boosts Type: Null's Attack by two stages and lets it break through bulky Pokemon like Mudsdale and Clefairy more efficiently, making it a deadly breaker and set-up sweeper. Type: Null finds many opportunities to set up versus those Pokemon and more thanks to its great bulk. Return is a Type: Null’s most powerful STAB option and main cleaning tool, dealing respectable damage to most targets neutral to it. Rest gives Type: Null a recovery option at the cost of making it asleep for a few turns, restoring all health and curing status. Sleep Talk lets Type: Null use its moves while it's asleep to make it less passive, which can be great for accumulating Swords Dance boosts or firing off powerful Returns. Iron Defense increases Type: Null's Defense, allowing it to outlast physical attackers such as Hitmonchan or Aggron that can otherwise break through it. It does, however, come with the drawback of being more passive and enabling Pokemon to take advantage of it due to forgoing Sleep Talk.

Set Details
========

Full investment in HP and Special Defense makes Type: Null as specially bulky as possible, giving Type: Null the role of blanket checking special attackers as well as it does. 8 Defense is an even number that gives it two extra points thanks to the Eviolite boost. Eviolite helps to maximize Type: Null's bulk, giving it more durability and making its defensive role easier. Battle Armor compliments Type: Null's defensive presence by preventing critical hits from attackers. This is especially good for this set as Type: Null will be able to take advantage of its Iron Defense boosts much more safely.

Usage Tips
========

Type: Null should prioritize on its defensive role of blanket checking special attackers like Jynx, Alolan Exeggutor, and Silvally-Dragon. Given Type: Null's ability to absorb status, pivoting into potential status moves from Pokemon like Lilligant and Alolan Dugtrio early-game can alleviate pressure for teammates. Swords Dance can be used in many situations, whether it's to beat passive Pokemon like Clefairy and Altaria, taking advantage of forced switches from special attackers, or attempting a late-game sweep. One must avoid attempting a sweep if Ghost-types are present, however. Luring in Ghost types via double switching and then Pursuit-trapping them with partners like Skuntank can net a key advantage that can pave for a sweep. Capitalize on switch-ins from Fighting-types by gradually weakening them down with repeated use of Return. Using Rest when Type: Null is low is always important to maintain opportunities to sweep and to check special attackers. It helps whenever possible to scout for Knock Off on Pokemon Type: Null is supposed to check, like Clefairy or Mesprit, as having its item removed drastically reduces its durability. Iron Defense can be great for outlasting checks like Hitmonchan and Aggron as well taking on the likes of Stoutland better, but be wary about giving up free turns, as sets without Sleep Talk are more prone to its helplessness being taken advantage of.

Team Options
========

Checks to Fighting-types are important to have, especially Gurdurr and Throh since unlike most others they can overcome Iron Defense variants of Type: Null with Bulk Up, Knock Off, and Circle Throw. (gurdurr doesn't use circle throw, be sure to specify that you mean throh here.) (also, gurdurr's drain punch should be mentioned too, as type: null takes a considerable amount of damage prior to setting up and struggles to beat gurdurr if it sets up alongside it.) Bulky Oricorio-G and Defensive Mesprit are bread-and-butter Pokemon that are among the most reliable Fighting-type answers in general, while also pressuring other Pokemon like Weezing and in Mesprit’s case, setting up Stealth Rock and supporting with Healing Wish. Pursuit trappers, most notably Spiritomb and Skuntank, are extremely useful in removing Ghost-type Pokemon that would otherwise impede Type: Null's sweep. Flying resists that can account for Oricorio-G, such as Togedemaru and Oricorio-E, are great to have for checking this high-profile threat to Type: Null. Pokemon that can deal with Type: Null's Normal-resistant checks include Mudsdale, Poliwrath, and Regirock which can check Pokemon like Aggron, Lycanroc, and Omastar to varying degrees. Hazard control is ideal to alleviate the issue with chip damage due to Type: Null's lack of reliable recovery, with options like Lurantis, Skuntank, and Silvally-Water all sharing good synergy; Skuntank absorbs Toxic Spikes and traps Ghost-types, Lurantis beats Gurdurr and threatens Rock- and Steel-type Pokemon, and Silvally-Water also threatens Rock- and Steel-types, beats Qwilfish, and can pivot with Parting Shot. Physically defensive Pokemon like Tangela and Sableye are good Pokemon to fall back on when in need of cushions or checks to strong physical attackers. Knock Off sponges to preserve Type: Null's Eviolite include Absol, Silvally-Fairy, and Poliwrath are good partners; Absol heavily punishes bulky Ghost-types like Sableye and Calm Mind Spiritomb, Silvally-Fairy is fairy adept at checking Fighting-types, and Poliwrath is potent at checking Aggron and threatening other Rock- and Steel-types. Swords Dance Type: Null can also really appreciate Toxic Spikes since it helps wear down poison grounded Ghost types like non-CM Spiritomb and Sableye throughout the match. Weezing and Qwilfish are prime setters, while serving as great catch-all Fighting-type checks.

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

Toxic is a solid catch-all tool for punishing bulky Pokemon, and can pressure many Ghost- and Rock-type switch-ins. This does enable Gurdurr switch-ins by activating Guts, unfortunately, as well as Pokemon like Aggron and Qwilfish who can handle both Toxic and Return. Punishment can pressure Ghost-type set up sweepers like bulky Calm Mind Oricorio-G and Calm Mind Spiritomb after some Calm Mind boosts but is a very inconsistent option otherwise. Hidden Power Ground with a Sassy nature has a chance to OHKO Aggron after Stealth Rock, hits Alolan Sandslash and Probopass hard, and punishes Omastar that tries to use Type: Null as set up fodder but forgoes pivoting or the ability to set up. Pursuit can be reliable for trapping frail Psychic- and Ghost-types like Haunter and Jynx, but pales in comparison to U-Turn with utility otherwise while still losing to Oricorio-G and Spiritomb. Thunder Wave cripples the Speed of opposing Pokemon but is less effective at dealing with defensive switch-ins than other options and much like Toxic, is easily capitalized by Gurdurr. Tri Attack + Work Up takes advantage of its special movepool similarly with the option to set up and a decent STAB move that can spread status, but is unable to threaten Calm Mind Clefairy, fares worse at breaking through checks such as Assault Vest Hitmonchan and Crabominale, and requires more turns of boosting to become threatening. Flame Charge is an option for being able to boost Speed on Swords Dance sets, but require a ton of boosts to outspeed Choice Scarf Pokemon and forgoes important moveslots otherwise.

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

**Ghost-types**: Type: Null is walled by Ghost-types such as Sableye, Oricorio-G, Misdreavus due to its lack of strong damage output against them, rendering it completely forced out. Furthermore, many of them can disable Type: Null's form of recovery with Taunt, while other options like Haunter can cripple Type: Null entirely with Trick, although Life Orb variants will eventually KO itself in a 1v1 scenario without Pain Split. Spiritomb and Oricorio-G can also use Type: Null as setup fodder with Calm Mind. Most Ghosts don't appreciate the occasional Toxic, however. (don't mention that they need to watch out for toxic, it's only in oo.)

**Fighting-types**: Fighting-types such as Primeape, Hitmonchan, and Crabominable heavily punish Type: Null with their damage output thanks to their super effective STAB moves, although they won't appreciate constantly switching in on Return nor will have the adequate means of breaking past Iron Defense boosts. Pokemon like Gurdurr and Throh are much bulkier and can also pressure it by removing Type: Null's Eviolite with Knock Off or using it as setup fodder with Bulk Up or removing boosts with Circle Throw in Throh's case.

**Rock- and Steel-types**: While Rock- and Steel-types that resist Return can still be beaten given most lack the recovery needed to combat Swords Dance variants, the ones with offensive presence can usually overpower Type: Null in its setup process, whether its breakers like Aggron and Choice Specs Aurorus or set up sweepers like Lycanroc, Alolan Sandslash, and Omastar. Barring Omastar and Aurorus, these Pokemon may experience problems breaking past Iron Defense variants, however. Regirock is notable for actively walling pivot variants all game, and thus can safely set up Stealth Rock but loses to Toxic or Swords Dance sets. (same thing about toxic applies here.)

**Knock Off users**: Without its Eviolite, Type: Null cannot use its bulk to reliably check stronger special attackers and is particularly vulnerable to being lured or pressured by Pokemon it tries to check like Clefairy, Eelektross, or Mesprit. (makes this more about eviolite loss as a whole and mention trick / switcheroo users too.)
remember to add the credits section in, 3/3.
 
Last edited:

Lumari

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TFP Leader
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GP 1/2
[OVERVIEW]

Type: Null is one of the bulkiest Pokemon in PU, blanket checking special attackers such as Lilligant, Mesprit, Swanna, and Jynx, and more. It also has usable physical bulk which that not only can be boosted further by Iron Defense but also allows it to check weaker physical attackers like Skuntank, Togedemaru, and Alolan Dugtrio. Although Type: Null’s base Speed sits on the lower end of the spectrum, its access to U-turn lets it use said Speed to act as a slow and bulky pivot that creates many opportunities for teammates to be safely brought into the field. Alternatively, Swords Dance makes Type: Null a potent late-game wincon sweeper that uses its defenses to set up with ease, with Battle Armor also coming into play by preventing critical hits, enhancing its sweeping opportunities. Type: Null’s nature of a sturdy RestTalk user also makes it very reliable as a status absorber for its team. Unfortunately, Type: Null’s reliance on its STAB attacks makes it dependent on Pursuit support to remove Ghost-types, with that same typing also giving it a weakness that leaves it checked by powerful Fighting-types like Gurdurr and Primeape. Furthermore, Eviolite is integral for checking stronger special attackers like Choice Specs Exeggutor and Aurorus, making it Type: Null susceptible to Knock Off and Trick. Type: Null is often on the defensive when it needs to heal, in which allowing users of Taunt to easily stop it when it tries to use Rest. While it can beat certain Rock- and Steel-types due to them eventually being overpowered by boosted Returns and outlasted by Type: Null’s recovery, notable exceptions include Lycanroc, Omastar, Carracosta, (AC) and Aggron, which can all either use it as setup fodder or break through it firsthand. It can also face competition with other late-game wincons sweepers like Calm Mind Spiritomb or and Curse Munchlax, both of which have different typing or abilities that give them resistances or immunities that Type: Null lacks. Regardless, Type: Null is a nice bulky team player with decent role compression for a wide range of playstyles.

[SET]
name: Bulky Pivot
move 1: U-turn
move 2: Return
move 3: Rest
move 4: Sleep Talk
item: Eviolite
ability: Battle Armor
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 8 Def / 248 SpD

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

U-turn is strong tool for applying gaining momentum, pivoting out against faster Pokemon or unfavorable switch-ins (AH) from unfavorable match ups like Froslass, Regirock, and Aggron. Return is a strong, reliable STAB move that deals respectable damage to most non-resistant targets. Rest is Type: Null’s main form of recovery that can also cure all status ailments at the cast cost of falling asleep for a few turns. Sleep Talk lets Type: Null act while it is asleep, and its use could potentially letting it to pivot out of Pokemon that try to take advantage of its status, allowing it to not be as passive.

Set Details
========

Full investment in HP and Special Defense with a Careful nature maximizes Type: Null's bulk to carry out its role as a strong catch-all sponge to special attackers. Eviolite further increases Type: Null's defenses, allowing it to do its job defensively. 8 Defense is EVs make for an even number that gives it two extra points thanks to the Eviolite boost. Battle Armor is great for making Type: Null's job as a wall more reliable as a wall, preventing critical hits from attackers.

Usage Tips
========

Type: Null should pivot into strong special attackers and users of status-inducing (AH) moves like Lilligant, Lanturn, Swanna, and Altaria. Beyond that, generating momentum is Type: Null's other key role, where U-turn is safe to use on predicted switches to avoid unfavorable match ups, matchups, whether it is either bulky Pokemon like Regirock and Qwilfish or Fighting-types that comfortably take Return like Gurdurr. From there, it should use that opportunity to get in wallbreakers or Pokemon that can threaten them out. In other cases, Return can be nice for consistent damage is nice when resists are lacking not a lot of Pokemon that resist it are left. Using Rest when Type: Null is weakened is important to keep it healthy to check special attackers, force switches, and pivot around (RP) as much as it can. When asleep, finding opportunities to burn sleep turns is recommended, and can be possible given which can be done against the large amount number of Pokemon that Type: Null is not significantly damaged by. It is often able to safely use Sleep Talk due to being able of pivoting out thanks to U-turn, making it less passive. Lastly, Type: Null should be wary of foes like Mesprit with Knock Off or Trick (RC) and should play around users Taunt sparingly, as it they can punish attempts of resting to use Rest.

Team Options
========

Type: Null's ability to blanket check special attackers and reliably pivot around allows it to support offensive and defensive teams alike. Wallbreakers that appreciate safe switch-ins include switches including Aggron, Omastar, and Aurorus are solid options, (AC) as they can take advantage of Ghost-types like Oricorio-G and Gourgeist-XL and physical walls like Weezing. Fighting-type checks are top priority, (RH) which include Pokemon like Qwilfish, Mesprit, Froslass, and Scyther; Qwilfish and Froslass can set up Spikes to chip down said Fighting-types, Mesprit can support Type: Null with Stealth Rock and use Healing Wish in situations where Type: Null is weakened and hasn’t burned enough sleep turns, and Scyther appreciates Type: Null’s status absorbing and can form a strong pivoting core alongside it. Pursuit trappers include such as Skuntank, Spiritomb can help to remove problematic Ghost-types immune to Return, especially from the likes of Haunter and Oricorio-G. Other strong checks to Oricorio-G include Togedemaru, Oricorio-E, and Lycanroc, which all appreciate Type: Null bringing them in safely with U-turn to apply offensive pressure on their own. Type: Null pairs well with other pivoting cores which that can include Primeape, Lanturn, and Eelektross, all of which they can use their own offensive typing, utility, and strong attacking moves to force out switches. Physically defensive Pokemon like Tangela, Regirock, or and Gurdurr form a good defensive core with Type: Null, as they can cushion hits from physical breakers like Aggron and Stoutland better. Entry hazard control from Pokemon removers like Skuntank, Swanna, Rotom-F are solid, (AC) since Type: Null is a pivot that is vulnerable to Spikes and all other types of entry hazard. They can also threaten the likes of Qwilfish and Froslass, two Spikes setters that Type: Null often invites in for free, (comma) They also as well as support Type: Null in other ways, including Skuntank's Pursuit support, Swanna's dual STAB and special attacking prowess that can pressure Rock- and Fighting-types like Regirock, Aggron, and Hitmonchan, and Rotom-F's pivoting core with its own Volt Switch. Pokemon that switch into Knock Off easily alleviate pressure for Type: Null; (SC) with options that include Rocky Helmet Weezing, Silvally-Fairy, and Sableye, pressuring users like Gurdurr and Zangoose. Silvally-Fairy is also immune to Trick and Switcheroo, which can be useful to pivot into in certain instances.

[SET]
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Return
move 3: Rest
move 4: Sleep Talk / Iron Defense
item: Eviolite
ability: Battle Armor
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 8 Def / 248 SpD

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

Swords Dance boosts Type: Null's Attack by two stages and lets it break through bulky Pokemon like Mudsdale and Clefairy more efficiently, making it a deadly breaker and set-up setup sweeper. Type: Null finds many opportunities to set up versus those Pokemon and more thanks to its great bulk. Return is a Type: Null’s most powerful STAB option and main cleaning tool, dealing respectable damage to most targets neutral to it. Rest gives Type: Null a recovery option at the cost of making it asleep for a few turns, restoring all health and curing status. Sleep Talk lets Type: Null use its moves while it's asleep to make it less passive, which can be great for accumulating Swords Dance boosts or firing off powerful Returns. Iron Defense increases Type: Null's Defense, allowing it to outlast physical attackers such as Hitmonchan or Aggron that can otherwise break through it. It does, however, come with the drawback of being more passive and enabling Pokemon to take advantage of it due to forgoing Sleep Talk.

Set Details
========

Full investment in HP and Special Defense makes Type: Null as specially bulky as possible, giving Type: Null the role of blanket checking special attackers as well as it does. 8 Defense is EVs make for an even number that gives it two extra points thanks to the Eviolite boost. Eviolite helps to maximize Type: Null's bulk, giving it more durability and making its defensive role easier. Battle Armor compliments complements Type: Null's defensive presence by preventing critical hits from attackers. This is especially good for this set, (AC) as Type: Null will be able to take advantage of its Iron Defense boosts much more safely.

Usage Tips
========

Type: Null should prioritize on its defensive role of blanket checking special attackers like Jynx, Alolan Exeggutor, and Silvally-Dragon. Given Type: Null's ability to absorb status, pivoting into potential status moves from Pokemon like Lilligant and Alolan Dugtrio early-game can alleviate pressure for teammates. Swords Dance can be used in many situations, whether it's to beat passive Pokemon like Clefairy and Altaria, takingtake advantage of forced switches from special attackers, or attempting attempt a late-game sweep. One must avoid attempting a sweep if Ghost-types are present, however. Luring in Ghost types via double switching and then Pursuit trapping (RH) them with partners like Skuntank can net a key advantage that can pave for a sweep. Capitalize on switch-ins from Fighting-types switch-ins by gradually weakening them down with repeated use of Return. Using Rest when Type: Null is low is always important to maintain opportunities to sweep and to check special attackers. It helps whenever possible to scout for Knock Off on Pokemon Type: Null is supposed to check, like Clefairy or and Mesprit, as having its item removed drastically reduces its durability. Iron Defense can be great for outlasting checks like Hitmonchan and Aggron as well taking on the likes of Stoutland better, but be wary about giving up free turns, as sets without Sleep Talk are more prone to its having their helplessness being taken advantage of.

Team Options
========

Checks to Fighting-types are important to have, especially Gurdurr and Throh, (AC) since unlike most others they can overcome Iron Defense variants of Type: Null with their boosting moves and attacks. Bulky Oricorio-G and defensive Mesprit are bread-and-butter Pokemon that are among the most reliable Fighting-type answers in general, while and they can also also pressuring pressure other Pokemon like Weezing and, (AC) in Mesprit’s case, setting up Stealth Rock and supporting Type: Null with Healing Wish. Pursuit trappers, most notably Spiritomb and Skuntank, are extremely useful in removing Ghost-type Pokemon that would otherwise impede Type: Null's sweep. Flying resists checks that can account for Oricorio-G, such as Togedemaru and Oricorio-E, are great to have for checking this high-profile threat to Type: Null. Pokemon that can deal with Type: Null's Normal-resistant checks include Mudsdale, Poliwrath, and Regirock, (AC) which can check Pokemon like Aggron, Lycanroc, and Omastar to varying degrees. Entry hazard control is ideal to alleviate the issue with chip damage due to that comes from Type: Null's lack of reliable recovery, with options like Lurantis, Skuntank, and Silvally-Water all sharing good synergy; Skuntank absorbs Toxic Spikes and traps Ghost-types, Lurantis beats Gurdurr and threatens Rock- and Steel-type Pokemon, and Silvally-Water also threatens Rock- and Steel-types, beats Qwilfish, and can pivot with Parting Shot. Physically defensive Pokemon like Tangela and Sableye are good Pokemon to fall back on when in need of cushions or checks to strong physical attackers. Knock Off sponges to preserve Type: Null's Eviolite include including Absol, Silvally-Fairy, and Poliwrath are good partners; Absol heavily punishes bulky Ghost-types like Sableye and Calm Mind Spiritomb, Silvally-Fairy is adept at checking Fighting-types and is immune to Trick / Switcheroo, and Poliwrath is potent at checking Aggron and threatening other Rock- and Steel-types. Swords Dance Type: Null can also really appreciate Toxic Spikes, (AC) since it helps wear down poison grounded Ghost types like non-CM non-Calm Mind Spiritomb and Sableye throughout the match. Weezing and Qwilfish are prime setters, while serving as great catch-all Fighting-type checks.

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

Toxic is a solid catch-all tool for punishing bulky Pokemon (RC) and can pressure many Ghost- and Rock-type switch-ins. This does enable Gurdurr switch-ins by activating Guts, unfortunately, as well as Pokemon like Aggron and Qwilfish, (AC) who which can handle both Toxic and Return. Punishment can pressure Ghost-type set up setup sweepers like bulky Calm Mind Oricorio-G and Calm Mind Spiritomb after some Calm Mind boosts but is a very inconsistent option otherwise. Hidden Power Ground with a Sassy nature has a chance to OHKO Aggron after Stealth Rock, hits Alolan Sandslash and Probopass hard, and punishes Omastar that tries to use Type: Null as set up setup fodder but forgoes pivoting or the ability to set up. Pursuit can be reliable for trapping frail Psychic- and Ghost-types like Haunter and Jynx, but it pales in comparison to U-turn with utility otherwise, (AC) while still losing and Type: Null still loses to Oricorio-G and Spiritomb. Thunder Wave cripples the Speed of opposing Pokemon but is less effective at dealing with defensive switch-ins than other options and, (AC) much like Toxic, is easily capitalized by Gurdurr. Tri Attack + Work Up takes advantage of its Type: Null special movepool similarly with the option to set up and a decent STAB move that can spread status, but is such a set is unable to threaten Calm Mind Clefairy, fares worse at breaking through checks such as Assault Vest Hitmonchan and Crabominale, and requires more turns of boosting to become threatening. Flame Charge is an option for being able to boost Speed on Swords Dance sets, but Type: Null require a ton of boosts to outspeed Choice Scarf Pokemon and forgoes important moveslots otherwise.

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

**Ghost-types**: Type: Null is walled by Ghost-types such as Sableye, Oricorio-G, Misdreavus due to its lack of a strong damage output attack against them, rendering it completely forced out. Furthermore, many of them can disable Type: Null's form of recovery with Taunt, while other options like Haunter can cripple Type: Null entirely with Trick, although Life Orb variants will eventually KO itself themselves in a 1v1 one-on-one scenario without Pain Split. Spiritomb and Oricorio-G can also use Type: Null as setup fodder with Calm Mind.

**Fighting-types**: Fighting-types such as Primeape, Hitmonchan, and Crabominable heavily punish Type: Null with their damage output thanks to their super effective STAB moves, although they won't appreciate constantly switching in on Return, (AC) nor will they have the adequate means of breaking past Iron Defense boosts. Pokemon like Gurdurr and Throh are much bulkier and can also pressure it Type: Null by removing Type: Null's its Eviolite with Knock Off or using it as setup fodder with Bulk Up or removing boosts with Circle Throw in Throh's case.

**Rock- and Steel-types**: While Rock- and Steel-types that resist Return can still be beaten given most lack the recovery needed to combat Swords Dance variants, the ones with offensive presence can usually overpower Type: Null in its setup process, whether its it be breakers like Aggron and Choice Specs Aurorus or set up setup sweepers like Lycanroc, Alolan Sandslash, and Omastar. Barring Omastar and Aurorus, these Pokemon may experience problems breaking past Iron Defense variants, however. Regirock is notable for actively walling pivot variants all game (RC) and thus can safely setting up Stealth Rock against them, (AC) but it loses to Swords Dance sets.

**Loss of Eviolite**: Without its Eviolite, Type: Null cannot use its bulk to reliably check stronger special attackers and is particularly vulnerable to being pressured by Pokemon it tries to check like Clefairy, Eelektross, or Mesprit with Knock Off. Trick and Switcheroo Choice users such as Manectric, Dusknoir, and the aforementioned Mesprit are problematic for that same reason while also locking Type: Null into a move it uses.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[jklioe, 424692]]
- Quality checked by: [[Taskr, 257882], [Darkinium, 448296], [allstarapology, 400292]]
- Grammar checked by: [[<username1>, <userid1>], [<username2>, <username2>]]
 

A Cake Wearing A Hat

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Community Leader
add remove comments
[OVERVIEW]
Type: Null is one of the bulkiest Pokemon in PU, blanket checking special attackers such as Lilligant, Mesprit, Swanna, and Jynx. It also has usable physical bulk that not only can be boosted further by Iron Defense but also allows it to check weaker physical attackers like Skuntank, Togedemaru, and Alolan Dugtrio. Although Type: Null’s Null's base Speed sits on the lower end of the spectrum, its access to U-turn lets it use said Speed to act as a slow and bulky pivot that creates many opportunities for teammates to be safely brought into the field. Alternatively, Swords Dance makes Type: Null a potent late-game sweeper that uses its defenses to set up with ease, with Battle Armor also coming into play by preventing critical hits, enhancing its sweeping opportunities. Type: Null’s Null's nature of as a sturdy RestTalk user also makes it very reliable as a status absorber for its team. Unfortunately, Type: Null’s Null's reliance on its STAB attacks makes it dependent on Pursuit support to remove Ghost-types, with that same typing also giving it a weakness that leaves it checked by powerful Fighting-types and its Fighting weakness leaves it checked by powerful Pokemon (old ver. made it sound like ghost caused this) like Gurdurr and Primeape. Furthermore, Eviolite is integral for checking stronger special attackers like Choice Specs Exeggutor and Aurorus, making Type: Null susceptible to Knock Off and Trick. Type: Null is often on the defensive when it needs to heal, allowing users of Taunt to easily stop it when it tries to use Rest. While it can beat certain Rock- and Steel-types due to them eventually being overpowered by boosted Returns Return and outlasted by Type: Null’s Null's recovery, notable exceptions include Lycanroc, Omastar, Carracosta, and Aggron, which can all either use it as setup fodder or break through it firsthand. It can also face competition with other late-game sweepers like Calm Mind Spiritomb and Curse Munchlax, both of which have different typing or abilities that give them resistances or immunities that Type: Null lacks. Regardless, Type: Null is a nice bulky team player with decent role compression for a wide range of playstyles.

[SET]
name: Bulky Pivot
move 1: U-turn
move 2: Return
move 3: Rest
move 4: Sleep Talk
item: Eviolite
ability: Battle Armor
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 8 Def / 248 SpD

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

U-turn is strong tool for gaining momentum, pivoting out against faster Pokemon or unfavorable switch-ins like Froslass, Regirock, and Aggron. Return is a strong, reliable STAB move that deals respectable damage to most non-resistant targets. Rest is Type: Null’s Null's main form of recovery that and can also cure all status ailments at the cost of falling asleep for a few turns. Sleep Talk lets Type: Null act while it is asleep, potentially letting it pivot out of Pokemon that try to take advantage of its status, allowing it to not be as passive.

Set Details
========

Full investment in HP and Special Defense with a Careful nature maximizes Type: Null's bulk to carry out its role as a strong catch-all sponge to special attackers. Eviolite further increases Type: Null's defenses, allowing it to do its job defensively. 8 Defense EVs make for an even number that gives it two extra points thanks to the Eviolite boost. Battle Armor is great for making Type: Null more reliable as a wall, preventing critical hits from attackers.

Usage Tips
========

Type: Null should pivot into strong special attackers and users of status-inducing moves like Lilligant, Lanturn, Swanna, and Altaria. Beyond that, generating momentum is Type: Null's other key role, (RC) where; (ASC) U-turn is safe to use on predicted switches to avoid unfavorable matchups, (RC) against either bulky Pokemon like Regirock and Qwilfish or Fighting-types that comfortably take Return like Gurdurr. From there, it should use that opportunity to get in wallbreakers or Pokemon that can threaten them out. In other cases, Return can be nice for consistent damage when not a lot of Pokemon that resist it are left. Using Rest when Type: Null is weakened is important to keep it healthy to check special attackers, force switches, and pivot around as much as it can. When asleep, finding opportunities to burn sleep turns is recommended, which can be done against the large number of Pokemon that Type: Null is not significantly damaged by. It is often able to safely use Sleep Talk due to being able of pivoting out thanks to U-turn, making it less passive without being too passive, as it can sometimes pivot out with U-turn. Lastly, Type: Null should be wary of foes like Mesprit with Knock Off or Trick and should play around users Taunt sparingly, as they can punish attempts to use Rest.

Team Options
========

Type: Null's ability to blanket check special attackers and reliably pivot around allows it to support offensive and defensive teams alike. Wallbreakers such as Aggron, Omastar, and Aurorus that appreciate safe switches including Aggron, Omastar, and Aurorus are solid options, as they can take advantage of Ghost-types like Oricorio-G and Gourgeist-XL and physical walls like Weezing. Fighting-type checks are top priority, which include Pokemon like Qwilfish, Mesprit, Froslass, and Scyther; Qwilfish and Froslass can set up Spikes to chip down said Fighting-types, Mesprit can support Type: Null with Stealth Rock and use Healing Wish in situations where Type: Null is weakened and hasn’t hasn't burned enough sleep turns, and Scyther appreciates Type: Null’s Null's ability to absorb status absorbing and can form a strong pivoting core alongside it. Pursuit trappers such as Skuntank, (RC) and Spiritomb can help to remove problematic Ghost-types immune to Return, (Idt you need to hammer in here that Ghost is immune to Normal) especially the likes of Haunter and Oricorio-G. Other strong checks to Oricorio-G include Togedemaru, Oricorio-E, and Lycanroc, which all appreciate Type: Null bringing them in safely with U-turn to apply offensive pressure on their own. Type: Null pairs well with other pivoting cores that can include Primeape, Lanturn, and Eelektross, all of which can use their own offensive typing, utility, and strong attacking moves to force switches. Physically defensive Pokemon like Tangela, Regirock, and Gurdurr form a good defensive core cores with Type: Null, as they can cushion hits from physical breakers like Aggron and Stoutland better. Entry hazard removers like Skuntank, Swanna, Rotom-F are solid, since Type: Null is a pivot that is vulnerable to Spikes and all other types of entry every other hazard. They can also threaten the likes of Qwilfish and Froslass, two Spikes setters that Type: Null often invites in for free, as well as support Type: Null in other ways, including Skuntank's Pursuit support, Swanna's dual STAB combination and special attacking prowess that can lets it pressure Rock- and Fighting-types like Regirock, Aggron, and Hitmonchan, and Rotom-F's pivoting with its own Volt Switch. Pokemon that switch into Knock Off easily alleviate pressure for Type: Null; options include Rocky Helmet Weezing, Silvally-Fairy, and Sableye, pressuring which all pressure common Knock Off users like Gurdurr and Zangoose. Silvally-Fairy is also immune to Trick and Switcheroo, which can be useful to pivot into for pivoting in certain instances.

[SET]
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Return
move 3: Rest
move 4: Sleep Talk / Iron Defense
item: Eviolite
ability: Battle Armor
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 8 Def / 248 SpD

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

Swords Dance boosts Type: Null's Attack by two stages and lets it break through bulky Pokemon like Mudsdale and Clefairy more efficiently, making it a deadly breaker and setup sweeper. Type: Null finds many opportunities to set up versus those Pokemon and more thanks to its great bulk. Return is a Type: Null’s Null's most powerful STAB option and main cleaning tool, dealing respectable damage to most targets neutral to it. Rest gives Type: Null a recovery option at the cost of making it asleep for a few turns, restoring all health and curing status. Sleep Talk lets Type: Null use its moves while it's asleep to make it less passive, which can be great for accumulating Swords Dance boosts or firing off powerful Returns. Iron Defense increases Type: Null's Defense, allowing it to outlast physical attackers such as Hitmonchan or and Aggron that can otherwise break through it. It Using Iron Defense does, however, come with the drawback of being more passive and enabling Pokemon to take advantage of it Type: Null due to forgoing Sleep Talk.

Set Details
========

Full investment in HP and Special Defense makes Type: Null as specially bulky as possible, giving Type: Null the role of blanket checking special attackers as well as it does letting it blanket check special attackers well. 8 Defense EVs make for an even number that gives it two extra points thanks to the Eviolite boost make Type: Null's Defense an even number, which gives it additional Defense thanks to Eviolite. Eviolite helps to maximize Type: Null's bulk, giving it more durability and making its defensive role easier. Battle Armor complements Type: Null's defensive presence by preventing critical hits from attackers. This is especially good for this set, as Type: Null will be able to take advantage of its Iron Defense boosts much more safely.

Usage Tips
========

Type: Null should prioritize on its defensive role of blanket checking special attackers like Jynx, Alolan Exeggutor, and Silvally-Dragon. Given Type: Null's ability to absorb status, pivoting into potential status status-inducing moves from Pokemon like Lilligant and Alolan Dugtrio early-game can alleviate pressure for teammates. Swords Dance can be used in many situations, whether it's to beat passive Pokemon like Clefairy and Altaria, take advantage of forced switches from special attackers, or attempt a late-game sweep. One must avoid attempting a to sweep if Ghost-types are present, however. Luring in Ghost types via double switching and then Pursuit trapping them with partners like Skuntank can net a key advantage that can pave the way for a sweep. Capitalize on Fighting-type switch-ins by gradually weakening them down with repeated use of Return. Using Rest when Type: Null is low on health is always important to maintain opportunities to sweep and to check special attackers. It helps whenever possible to scout for Knock Off on Pokemon Type: Null is supposed to check, like Clefairy and Mesprit, as having its item removed drastically reduces its durability. Iron Defense can be great for outlasting checks like Hitmonchan and Aggron as well taking on the likes of Stoutland better, but be wary about giving up free turns, as sets without Sleep Talk are more prone to having their helplessness taken advantage of.

Team Options
========

Checks to Fighting-types are important to have, especially checks to Gurdurr and Throh, since unlike most others they can overcome Iron Defense variants of Type: Null with their attacks and boosting moves and attacks. Bulky Oricorio-G and defensive Mesprit are among the most reliable Fighting-type answers in general, and they can also also pressure other Pokemon like Weezing and, in Mesprit’s Mesprit's case, set up Stealth Rock and support Type: Null with Healing Wish. Pursuit trappers, most notably Spiritomb and Skuntank, are extremely useful in removing Ghost-type Pokemon that would otherwise impede Type: Null's sweep. Flying checks that can account for Oricorio-G, such as Togedemaru and Oricorio-E, are great to have for checking this high-profile threat to Type: Null. Pokemon that can deal with Type: Null's Normal-resistant checks include Mudsdale, Poliwrath, and Regirock, which can check Pokemon like Aggron, Lycanroc, and Omastar to varying degrees. Entry hazard control is ideal to alleviate the issue with chip damage that comes from Type: Null's lack of reliable recovery, with options like Lurantis, Skuntank, and Silvally-Water all sharing good synergy; Skuntank absorbs Toxic Spikes and traps Ghost-types, Lurantis beats Gurdurr and threatens Rock- and Steel-type Pokemon, and Silvally-Water also threatens Rock- and Steel-types, beats Qwilfish, and can pivot with Parting Shot. Physically defensive Pokemon like Tangela and Sableye are good Pokemon to fall back on when in need of cushions or checks to strong physical attackers. Knock Off sponges to preserve Type: Null's Eviolite including such as Absol, Silvally-Fairy, and Poliwrath are good partners; Absol heavily punishes bulky Ghost-types like Sableye and Calm Mind Spiritomb, Silvally-Fairy is adept at checking Fighting-types and is immune to Trick / and Switcheroo, and Poliwrath is potent at checking Aggron and threatening other Rock- and Steel-types. Swords Dance Type: Null can also really appreciate Toxic Spikes, (AC) since it helps wear down grounded Ghost types like non-Calm Mind Sableye and non-Rest Spiritomb and Sableye throughout the match. Weezing and Qwilfish are prime setters, (RC) while serving and serve as great catch-all Fighting-type checks.

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

Toxic is a solid catch-all tool for punishing bulky Pokemon and can pressure many Ghost- and Rock-type switch-ins. This does enable Gurdurr switch-ins by activating let Gurdurr activate Guts as it switches in, unfortunately, as well as and Toxic also invites in Pokemon like Aggron and Qwilfish, which can handle both Toxic and Return. Punishment can pressure Ghost-type setup sweepers like bulky Calm Mind Oricorio-G and Calm Mind Spiritomb after some Calm Mind boosts but is a very inconsistent option otherwise. Hidden Power Ground with a Sassy nature has a chance to OHKO Aggron after Stealth Rock, hits Alolan Sandslash and Probopass hard, and punishes Omastar that tries to use Type: Null as setup fodder but forgoes pivoting or the ability to set up. Pursuit can be reliable for trapping frail Psychic- and Ghost-types like Haunter and Jynx, but it pales in comparison to U-turn with utility otherwise, and Type: Null still loses to Oricorio-G and Spiritomb. Thunder Wave cripples the Speed of opposing Pokemon but is less effective at dealing with defensive switch-ins than other options and, much like Toxic, is easily capitalized by Gurdurr. Tri Attack + Work Up takes advantage of Type: Null special movepool similarly with the option to set up and a decent STAB move that can spread status, but such a set is unable to threaten Calm Mind Clefairy, fares worse at breaking through checks such as Assault Vest Hitmonchan and Crabominale, and requires more turns of boosting to become threatening. Flame Charge is an option for being able to boost Speed on Swords Dance sets, but Type: Null require a ton of boosts to outspeed Choice Scarf Pokemon and forgoes important moveslots otherwise. (worked with asa to remove other options that lack a niche)

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

**Ghost-types**: Type: Null is walled by Ghost-types such as Sableye, Oricorio-G, Misdreavus due to its lack of a strong attack against them, rendering it completely forced out. Furthermore, many of them can disable Type: Null's form of recovery with Taunt, while other options like Haunter can cripple Type: Null entirely with Trick, although Life Orb variants will eventually KO themselves in a one-on-one scenario without Pain Split. Spiritomb and Oricorio-G can also use Type: Null as setup fodder with Calm Mind.

**Fighting-types**: Fighting-types such as Primeape, Hitmonchan, and Crabominable heavily punish Type: Null with their damage output thanks to their super effective STAB moves, although they won't appreciate constantly switching in on Return, nor will they have the adequate means of breaking past Iron Defense boosts. Pokemon like Gurdurr and Throh are much bulkier and can also pressure Type: Null by removing its Eviolite with Knock Off or, (AC) using it as setup fodder with Bulk Up, (AC) or removing boosts with Circle Throw in Throh's case.

**Rock- and Steel-types**: While Rock- and Steel-types that resist Return can still be beaten given most lack the recovery needed to combat Swords Dance variants, the ones with offensive presence can usually overpower Type: Null in its setup process, whether it be breakers like Aggron and Choice Specs Aurorus or setup sweepers like Lycanroc, Alolan Sandslash, and Omastar. Barring Omastar and Aurorus, these Pokemon may experience problems breaking past Iron Defense variants, however. Regirock is notable for actively walling pivot variants all game and safely setting up Stealth Rock against them, but it loses to Swords Dance sets.

**Loss of Eviolite**: Without its Eviolite, Type: Null cannot use its bulk to reliably check stronger special attackers and is particularly vulnerable to being pressured by Pokemon it tries to check like Clefairy, Eelektross, or and Mesprit with Knock Off. Trick and Switcheroo Choice users such as Manectric, Dusknoir, and the aforementioned Mesprit are problematic for that same reason while also locking Type: Null into a move it uses.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[jklioe, 424692]]
- Quality checked by: [[Taskr, 257882], [Darkinium, 448296], [allstarapology, 400292]]
- Grammar checked by: [[The Dutch Plumberjack, 232216], [A Cake Wearing A Hat, 388157]]

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