[qc]2/3[/qc]
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Tyranitar【BW2 Revamp】【QC: 3/3】【GP: 2/2】
- Thread starter Trinitrotoluene
- Start date
Alright.
This analysis has been in the works for a long time, but before I do finish writing this up, should I mention Garchomp as both a teammate and a counter? (Reason being that I have everything written, but I just want that question cleared up so I can modify it before uploading)
I don't see why not.
Alright. Thank you.
I think that chople berry deserves a slash on the stealth rock set because otherwise ttar struggles to be useful other than tanking hits. Also, chople can be used to bluff choice sets.
And, this set order is kind of weird. I would think that the stealth rock set is a lot more common in this metagame than cb.
And, this set order is kind of weird. I would think that the stealth rock set is a lot more common in this metagame than cb.
When this analysis was QC approved, the set order established was CB, Stealth Rocker, and Scarf. I'll change it up when the QC team demands that I do so. Also, regarding Chople Berry, it's listed in the AC of the Stealth Rock set.
Ook. You're right. I'll fix that up.
Done writing the tyrant's poem. Requesting GP checks.
Uhhh before you do that, you might want to rename the "Stealth Rocker" set to something a little more Smogon-ly (for lack of better term) sophisticated, since it might rub us wrong. The first thing that comes to mind is "Specially Defensive," since "Standard" is out of the question.
How does "Support" sound? If it doesn't seem Smogon-ly (fun term, by the way) sophisticated enough, I'll go with "Specially Defensive."
Meh. It's not as much literally "support" as it is literally "specially defensive," but go ahead!
Going through the important analyses one by one. Very slowly.
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COMMENT
[HIDE='nother checky][Overview]
<p>With the advent of Pokémon Black and White 2 came the Therian formes and Keldeo, all of whom have bolstered bolstering the power of rain teams, all while cutting into Tyranitar's usage like rain that cuts into bedrock and as such have worn down Tyranitar's metagame dominance like waves against a cliff [not entirely sure what the point of this analogy is but rain doesn't "cut" into bedrock in any case]. Some older threats, such as Breloom and Mamoswine, also had new life breathed into them with the release of their Dream World abilities. A few new Pokemon made their debut on have also been added to Tyranitar's list of headaches due to their new-found access to Superpower, courtesy of the move tutors, who have decided to not give Tyranitar much to improve its admittedly already impressive movepool. The same Fighting-types that troubled Tyranitar before still remain in OU, ready to pounce on it at any moment. The general pace of the metagame has increased, making Tyranitar's life in OU more difficult to maintain than ever before.</p>
<p>However, Tyranitar maintains a powerful and respectable niche as one of two automatic sandstorm inducers, which is important due to the the ubiquity of weather in OU. While Hippowdon may give Tyranitar a substantial amount of competition for a team slot, the tyrant has many advantages up its proverbial sleeve, such as increased special bulk under the sand, a better movepool, and the ability to smite many of its would-be counters on the switch with its raw power and impressive movepool. Tyranitar's ability to support potent sweepers, such as Landorus, Stoutland, Garchomp, and Sandslash, while fending off powerful specially-based threats, such as Latios, Latias, Gengar, and Starmie, further expand its niche in OU. Overall, while many new threats have conspired to dethrone the tyrant, they have yet to succeed, for Tyranitar has retained an iron grasp on its throne as a king one of the many kings of OU.</p>
[SET]
name: Choice Band
move 1: Stone Edge
move 2: Crunch
move 3: Pursuit
move 4: Superpower
item: Choice Band
nature: Adamant
ability: Sand Stream
evs: 180 HP / 252 Atk / 76 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>When equipped with a Choice Band, Tyranitar is quick to show why it it is easy to see why Tyranitar is one of the most feared Pokemon in OU. Boasting an absolutely massive 604 attack Attack after the boost with the item equipped, not many Pokemon will have business switching in on it. Opposing weather inducers not named Hippowdon will fear switching into its powerful attacks, making this set ideal for those that want to win the weather war decisively. Stall teams will be hard-pressed to keep up with its onslaught, due to the sheer power it possesses, and offensive teams won't like having to sacrifice one of their team members so another one can receive a free switch-in.</p>
<p>Stone Edge, despite the odium hurled upon its accuracy, is Tyranitar's main STAB move due to the sheer force behind it, and is capable of OHKOing or 2HKOing those that lack a resistance to it, and even some that do. Crunch is a more accurate move that lets Tyranitar make short work of Jellicent, Reuniclus, and Celebi. Pursuit gives Tyranitar the ability to trap and kill the frail Psychics and Ghosts that would rather not stay in on any of Tyranitar's attacks. Superpower is the best move to use in the last slot, due to its ability to brutalize Steel-types and other resists to Pokemon that resist its STAB moves. Superpower also gives Tyranitar the ability to land a crippling blow on Keldeo and Breloom, two of its biggest counters threats, on the switch.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The given EV spread maximizes Tyranitar's power while giving it the ability to outpace uninvested base 70s. The remaining EVs are placed into HP to give Tyranitar a respectable amount of bulk. Aqua Tail can be used over Superpower to smack Pokemon like Hippowdon, Gliscor, and Donphan around, but that usually is better left to teammates. Ice Punch can be used to get a surprise blow on powerful Dragons, but most are alredy hit hard enough by Stone Edge, and the main dragons Tyranitar should be facing, Latios and Latias, are scared witless by Crunch and Pursuit. Fire Punch is a great move for those that want to nab a surprise KO on Scizor, one of Tyranitar's most common counters. Earthquake provides mostly redundant coverage, but it still can see some use if your team is vulnerable to Jirachi, Tentacruel, or Metagross.(full stop) ,(remove) but more More often than not, however, Superpower is the better option.</p>
<p>This set has no guaranteed counters due to its sheer power, but unfortunately for the tyrant, it does have plenty of checks. While Breloom, Terrakion, and Keldeo won't enjoy taking a Superpower, they can switch in on Tyranitar's STAB moves and force it out with the threat of powerful moves that hit against Tyranitar's massive Fighting-type moves weakness. Teammates such as Latios, Latias, and Reuniclus make great checks and counters to the Fighting-types. This also works in reverse: Keldeo and other fighters Fighting-types appreciate Tyranitar's ability to annihilate Latios and Latias, and in turn, Tyranitar appreciates their ability to lure in Psychic-types, most of which are easy prey for it. While Garchomp will not enjoy eating a STAB Crunch, it can easily switch into Tyranitar's other moves and threaten with a STAB Earthquake. Offensive monsters such as Landorus, Terrakion, Garchomp, and Stoutland appreciate the sand and wall-breaking power that Tyranitar brings along. Tyranitar has trouble with physical walls that resist its STABs STAB moves; therefore, Pokemon such as Heatran form great partnerships with it. If special bulk is prioritized over power, then an EV spread of 252 HP / 36 Atk / 220 SpD can be used at the expense of quite a bit of power.</p>
[SET]
name: Support
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Pursuit
move 3: Crunch
move 4: Fire Blast / Superpower / Stone Edge
item: Leftovers
nature: Sassy / Careful
ability: Sand Stream
evs: 252 HP / 4 Atk / 252 SpD
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>With appropriate investment and the Special Defense boost in a sandstorm, Tyranitar gains the ability to combat several notable specially-based threats, such as Latios, Venusaur, and Jolteon. Tyranitar can also gets the distinction of being able to set up Stealth Rock very reliably because of its ability to threaten the only Pokemon that possess Magic Bounce with its powerful Dark-type STAB attacks. Stealth Rock is the main only hazard Tyranitar sets, easily crippling but it is enough to easily cripple several important OU Pokemon, such as Ninetales, Volcarona, and Thundurus-T. Crunch is Tyranitar's most reliable STAB move, due to its ability to OHKO targets such as Latios, Gengar, and Starmie, and 2HKO several other Pokemon. Pursuit is Tyranitar's other STAB move, and is great for trapping frail Pokemon that switch out in fear of Tyranitar a powerful attack. Fire Blast is the preferred move in the last slot because it allows Tyranitar to defeat Forretress and Ferrothorn, while retaining the ability to hurt Breloom, Genesect, and Scizor.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>Sassy is the preferred nature, since it lowers Tyranitar's dismal speed Speed while maximizing its respectable Special Defense. If more power is desired, a more offensive spread and an Adamant nature can be used, at the cost of a noticeable decrease in special bulk. Superpower can be used to get a more solid hit on several Pokemon, such as Terrakion (which must be hit on the switch), opposing Tyranitar, and Mamoswine. Stone Edge is an option if you want to use Tyranitar's other STAB type. Keep in mind though that doing so the lack of Fire Blast or Superpower gives the fighters Fighting-types in OU a free switch-in ,(comma) allowing them to set up and wreak havoc. If your team already has Stealth Rock on another Pokemon, then an extra coverage move can be used in that slot.</p>
<p>While Leftovers may be the preferred item, Chople Berry or Lum Berry can also be used. Chople Berry, while seemingly useless, is actually useful primarily for taking Focus Blasts and Superpowers from the Therians, Reuniclus, and Hydreigon. Lum Berry sees some use in granting Tyranitar a temporary immunity to status, granting it the ability to best defensive Ninetales and Politoed, and other Pokemon that rely on status. At the cost of a small amount of recovery each turn, Shed Shell can also be used to avoid being trapped by Dugtrio or Wobbuffet, helping Tyranitar win the weather war for the rest of its team.</p>
<p>Fighting-types have always been Tyranitar's bane, and this generation only added to the myriad of fighters that counter Tyranitar reliably. In particular, Tyranitar fears facing Terrakion, Keldeo, Conkeldurr, and Lucario, all of which carry powerful STAB moves that hits on Tyranitar's hit Tyranitar on its weaker Defense stat and either a higher Speed stat or enough bulk to stomach at least two of Tyranitar's attacks. While it may be weak to Fire Blast, Breloom is a great Tyranitar counter due to its access to Spore and powerful STAB moves. Many of these fighters can be properly handled by Latios, Latias, and Reuniclus, all of which present their own unique advantages and disadvantages. If you want to take a more defensive spin, Amoonguss can be used to check Breloom, Virizion, and Keldeo, and Poison Heal Gliscor can be used to keep tabs on Terrakion, Lucario, and Conkeldurr, provided the latter two do not run Ice Punch. Scizor,(comma) with and its powerful Bullet Punch and U-turn,(comma) are all is also a massive problems problem for Tyranitar. Magnezone and Heatran can establish themselves as are thus great partners due to their ability to reliably take Scizor down. Garchomp, Terrakion, Landorus, and Stoutland are great offensive partners due to the benefits they gain from the sand that the tyrant brings.</p>
[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Pursuit
move 2: Crunch
move 3: Stone Edge
move 4: Superpower
item: Choice Scarf
nature: Jolly
ability: Sand Stream
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This is similar to the quintessential Choice Scarf set that can be seen on many offensively inclined Pokemon, but Tyranitar's Scarf set is special because it can outpace and trap many common, threatening Pokemon, ranging from offensive Psychic behemoths such as the Lati twins to frail weather sweepers, such as Sawsbuck and Starmie. However, it fails to outpace Therian Tornadus, which is this set's largest shortcoming. Pursuit is listed first because this set's primary purpose is to trap and kill off weakened Pokemon. Crunch lets Tyranitar get a harder hit on Jellicent and Reuniclus, Pokemon that can usually tank a Pursuit when they don't switch. Stone Edge is Tyranitar's most powerful STAB move, and gives it the power to revenge kill Flying-type Pokemon and unboosted Volcarona.(full stop) Superpower is useful for catching opposing Lucario and non-Choice Scarf Scarfed Terrakion off-guard.</p>
[may want to mention that Alakazam outruns Scarftar and OHKOes with Focus Blast, so you can't Pursuit-trap it]
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>If revenge killing opposing Gliscor and Landorus is something your team desperately needs, then Ice Beam and a Hasty nature can be used. Fire Punch can be used to throw Scizor and non-Choice Scarf Genesect off their hinges, but it doesn't exactly get the best neutral coverage, and leaves Tyranitar open to Heatran. Fire Blast can be used with a Hasty nature to hit the aforementioned Pokemon with a stronger attack on the special side, but it has little utility outside of that. Earthquake can be used to get a stronger hit on Jirachi and Metagross, but is a lackluster option otherwise.</p>
<p>Since this Tyranitar is weaker than its Banded Choice Band counterpart, it's more prone to being walled and forced out. As of such, powerful partners, such as Choice Band Terrakion or Choice Specs Latios, are something that should be sought out. Hazards Entry hazards are always appreciated due to the reduced power of this set. This lets Tyranitar gain exceptional mileage when utilized on stall teams, who already utilize plenty of hazards and typically employ walls that can defeat the Fighting-types that plague it. Alternatively, if a more offensive team style is desired, then Deoxys-D, Terrakion, or Scolipede can be used to guarantee the presence of hazards. Since this Tyranitar is adept at eliminating powerful,(remove) but frail Ghosts, Stoutland and Landorus make exceptional partners for it.</p>
[OTHER OPTIONS]
<p>As mentioned in the Overview, Tyranitar's movepool is especially impressive, offering multiple options for boosting, from Hone Claws to Dragon Dance to Curse, as well as a multitude of attacks, ranging from Aqua Tail to Dragon Claw, and a few support options. While Dragon Dance used to be granted a set of its own, the ubiquity of Technician Breloom, as well as Tornadus-T, who outspeeds even after a boost in Speed, has made it somewhat irrelevant. A mixed Dragon Dance set can be used to break stall, but it too faces the same problems a purely physical Dragon Dance set faces. TyraniBoah, a relic from the days of RSE OU, still holds some merit for stall-breaking, thanks to its power and unpredictability behind a Substitute, but ultimately is a lesser option, thanks to the sheer force of offense reducing the usage of stall teams. Curse is still out there, but it faces the same problems the Dragon Dance sets face, and is more vulnerable to Trick, due to Curse's speed-reducing effects. If you desire recovery outside of Leftovers on Tyranitar, then a ResTalk Rest + Sleep Talk set can be used, but it is thwarted by faster Taunters. Roar can be used to pHaze out certain targets, but Tyranitar is an inferior pHazer, especially when compared to its colleagues, Hippowdon and Skarmory. Among the support moves offered by Tyranitar, Thunder Wave stands out as a fantastic option, since many Pokemon used to check it are fast Pokemon that do not appreciate paralysis, and can be used to support itself and some of its slower teammates.</p>
[Checks and Counters]
<p>Naturally, Fighting-types, which possess resistances to Tyranitar's STAB moves and STAB on moves that affect Tyranitar's largest weakness, are its best counters. Among them, Terrakion and Breloom are best suited for to dealing with it, thanks to the former's access to Justified, which grants it an Attack Boost for switching into Crunch, and the latter's powerful Technician-boosted Mach Punch. However, Terrakion must beware of a stray Superpower, and Breloom a Fire Blast or Ice Beam. Keldeo stands as a respectable counter, threatening Tyranitar with a powerful Secret Sword. Conkeldurr can exploit its immense bulk and use Tyranitar as set-up fodder or force a KO on it with its powerful moves. Lucario, while it must watch out for the same moves as Terrakion, is endowed with a 4x resistance to Tyranitar's STABs and access to Close Combat.</p>
<p>However, Fighting-types are not the only way to halt a Tyranitar's rampage. Steel-types also possess a resistance to its STAB moves and the ability to smack one of its weaknesses. Among them, Jirachi and Scizor stand as the best to combat Tyranitar, with the latter only fearing an unexpected Fire Blast. Skarmory, Ferrothorn, and Forretress work, but they all must watch out for a Fire Blast, and in the case of Ferrothorn, a Superpower. Ground-types also work well as checks and counters. Gliscor is the best among all of them thanks to its massive Defense and powerful Earthquake. While Landorus-T may not have Poison Heal, it does get Intimidate, which allows it to sponge even the strongest of hits from Tyranitar, and a massive base 145 Attack stat, which lets it put the hurt on with Earthquake. Hippowdon has even more bulk than Gliscor and Landorus-T, and also gets Slack Off, allowing it to stall Tyranitar out <i>ad infinitum</i> ["ad infinitum" doesn't require italicising].</p>
<p>It's much easier to check Tyranitar than it is to counter it, thanks to its rather low speed Speed and horrendous defensive typing defensively. Thanks to its access to Arena Trap, STAB Earthquake, and Reversal, Dugtrio can serve as one of the best Tyranitar checks in existence, unless Tyranitar chooses to run a Shed Shell. While it won't enjoy a powerful Crunch or Superpower, Garchomp can come in and threaten to KO with Earthquake or use it as set-up fodder. Users of Will-O-Wisp, such as Mew and Sableye, can easily render its gigantic Attack stat to nought. Ninetales, despite being weak to Stone Edge, can also send Tyranitar's Attack stat crashing down, with the extra bonus of shifting the weather with Drought. On the topic of opposing weather inducers, Politoed and Abomasnow are massive pains for Tyranitar to deal with, since they carry super-effective STABs STAB attacks and rob Tyranitar of its Special Defense boost. Thanks to the Superpower tutor in BW2, Stoutland and Hydreigon make their debut in this extensive list of checks and counters. The former can exploit the sand that Tyranitar brings about, and the latter resists Tyranitar's Dark-type STAB and Fire Blast. Mamoswine, while not a newcomer to this list, was buffed with a new-found neutrality to Fire Blast, giving it a greater ability to switch in on Tyranitar. This extensive list exists only because Tyranitar is such an anti-metagame force, and is one that almost every team must prepare for prepares for by exploiting its lack of Speed and horrible typing.</p>
[/HIDE]
[gp]1/2[/gp]
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COMMENT
[HIDE='nother checky][Overview]
<p>With the advent of Pokémon Black and White 2 came the Therian formes and Keldeo, all of whom have bolstered bolstering the power of rain teams, all while cutting into Tyranitar's usage like rain that cuts into bedrock and as such have worn down Tyranitar's metagame dominance like waves against a cliff [not entirely sure what the point of this analogy is but rain doesn't "cut" into bedrock in any case]. Some older threats, such as Breloom and Mamoswine, also had new life breathed into them with the release of their Dream World abilities. A few new Pokemon made their debut on have also been added to Tyranitar's list of headaches due to their new-found access to Superpower, courtesy of the move tutors, who have decided to not give Tyranitar much to improve its admittedly already impressive movepool. The same Fighting-types that troubled Tyranitar before still remain in OU, ready to pounce on it at any moment. The general pace of the metagame has increased, making Tyranitar's life in OU more difficult to maintain than ever before.</p>
<p>However, Tyranitar maintains a powerful and respectable niche as one of two automatic sandstorm inducers, which is important due to the the ubiquity of weather in OU. While Hippowdon may give Tyranitar a substantial amount of competition for a team slot, the tyrant has many advantages up its proverbial sleeve, such as increased special bulk under the sand, a better movepool, and the ability to smite many of its would-be counters on the switch with its raw power and impressive movepool. Tyranitar's ability to support potent sweepers, such as Landorus, Stoutland, Garchomp, and Sandslash, while fending off powerful specially-based threats, such as Latios, Latias, Gengar, and Starmie, further expand its niche in OU. Overall, while many new threats have conspired to dethrone the tyrant, they have yet to succeed, for Tyranitar has retained an iron grasp on its throne as a king one of the many kings of OU.</p>
[SET]
name: Choice Band
move 1: Stone Edge
move 2: Crunch
move 3: Pursuit
move 4: Superpower
item: Choice Band
nature: Adamant
ability: Sand Stream
evs: 180 HP / 252 Atk / 76 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>When equipped with a Choice Band, Tyranitar is quick to show why it it is easy to see why Tyranitar is one of the most feared Pokemon in OU. Boasting an absolutely massive 604 attack Attack after the boost with the item equipped, not many Pokemon will have business switching in on it. Opposing weather inducers not named Hippowdon will fear switching into its powerful attacks, making this set ideal for those that want to win the weather war decisively. Stall teams will be hard-pressed to keep up with its onslaught, due to the sheer power it possesses, and offensive teams won't like having to sacrifice one of their team members so another one can receive a free switch-in.</p>
<p>Stone Edge, despite the odium hurled upon its accuracy, is Tyranitar's main STAB move due to the sheer force behind it, and is capable of OHKOing or 2HKOing those that lack a resistance to it, and even some that do. Crunch is a more accurate move that lets Tyranitar make short work of Jellicent, Reuniclus, and Celebi. Pursuit gives Tyranitar the ability to trap and kill the frail Psychics and Ghosts that would rather not stay in on any of Tyranitar's attacks. Superpower is the best move to use in the last slot, due to its ability to brutalize Steel-types and other resists to Pokemon that resist its STAB moves. Superpower also gives Tyranitar the ability to land a crippling blow on Keldeo and Breloom, two of its biggest counters threats, on the switch.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The given EV spread maximizes Tyranitar's power while giving it the ability to outpace uninvested base 70s. The remaining EVs are placed into HP to give Tyranitar a respectable amount of bulk. Aqua Tail can be used over Superpower to smack Pokemon like Hippowdon, Gliscor, and Donphan around, but that usually is better left to teammates. Ice Punch can be used to get a surprise blow on powerful Dragons, but most are alredy hit hard enough by Stone Edge, and the main dragons Tyranitar should be facing, Latios and Latias, are scared witless by Crunch and Pursuit. Fire Punch is a great move for those that want to nab a surprise KO on Scizor, one of Tyranitar's most common counters. Earthquake provides mostly redundant coverage, but it still can see some use if your team is vulnerable to Jirachi, Tentacruel, or Metagross.(full stop) ,(remove) but more More often than not, however, Superpower is the better option.</p>
<p>This set has no guaranteed counters due to its sheer power, but unfortunately for the tyrant, it does have plenty of checks. While Breloom, Terrakion, and Keldeo won't enjoy taking a Superpower, they can switch in on Tyranitar's STAB moves and force it out with the threat of powerful moves that hit against Tyranitar's massive Fighting-type moves weakness. Teammates such as Latios, Latias, and Reuniclus make great checks and counters to the Fighting-types. This also works in reverse: Keldeo and other fighters Fighting-types appreciate Tyranitar's ability to annihilate Latios and Latias, and in turn, Tyranitar appreciates their ability to lure in Psychic-types, most of which are easy prey for it. While Garchomp will not enjoy eating a STAB Crunch, it can easily switch into Tyranitar's other moves and threaten with a STAB Earthquake. Offensive monsters such as Landorus, Terrakion, Garchomp, and Stoutland appreciate the sand and wall-breaking power that Tyranitar brings along. Tyranitar has trouble with physical walls that resist its STABs STAB moves; therefore, Pokemon such as Heatran form great partnerships with it. If special bulk is prioritized over power, then an EV spread of 252 HP / 36 Atk / 220 SpD can be used at the expense of quite a bit of power.</p>
[SET]
name: Support
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Pursuit
move 3: Crunch
move 4: Fire Blast / Superpower / Stone Edge
item: Leftovers
nature: Sassy / Careful
ability: Sand Stream
evs: 252 HP / 4 Atk / 252 SpD
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>With appropriate investment and the Special Defense boost in a sandstorm, Tyranitar gains the ability to combat several notable specially-based threats, such as Latios, Venusaur, and Jolteon. Tyranitar can also gets the distinction of being able to set up Stealth Rock very reliably because of its ability to threaten the only Pokemon that possess Magic Bounce with its powerful Dark-type STAB attacks. Stealth Rock is the main only hazard Tyranitar sets, easily crippling but it is enough to easily cripple several important OU Pokemon, such as Ninetales, Volcarona, and Thundurus-T. Crunch is Tyranitar's most reliable STAB move, due to its ability to OHKO targets such as Latios, Gengar, and Starmie, and 2HKO several other Pokemon. Pursuit is Tyranitar's other STAB move, and is great for trapping frail Pokemon that switch out in fear of Tyranitar a powerful attack. Fire Blast is the preferred move in the last slot because it allows Tyranitar to defeat Forretress and Ferrothorn, while retaining the ability to hurt Breloom, Genesect, and Scizor.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>Sassy is the preferred nature, since it lowers Tyranitar's dismal speed Speed while maximizing its respectable Special Defense. If more power is desired, a more offensive spread and an Adamant nature can be used, at the cost of a noticeable decrease in special bulk. Superpower can be used to get a more solid hit on several Pokemon, such as Terrakion (which must be hit on the switch), opposing Tyranitar, and Mamoswine. Stone Edge is an option if you want to use Tyranitar's other STAB type. Keep in mind though that doing so the lack of Fire Blast or Superpower gives the fighters Fighting-types in OU a free switch-in ,(comma) allowing them to set up and wreak havoc. If your team already has Stealth Rock on another Pokemon, then an extra coverage move can be used in that slot.</p>
<p>While Leftovers may be the preferred item, Chople Berry or Lum Berry can also be used. Chople Berry, while seemingly useless, is actually useful primarily for taking Focus Blasts and Superpowers from the Therians, Reuniclus, and Hydreigon. Lum Berry sees some use in granting Tyranitar a temporary immunity to status, granting it the ability to best defensive Ninetales and Politoed, and other Pokemon that rely on status. At the cost of a small amount of recovery each turn, Shed Shell can also be used to avoid being trapped by Dugtrio or Wobbuffet, helping Tyranitar win the weather war for the rest of its team.</p>
<p>Fighting-types have always been Tyranitar's bane, and this generation only added to the myriad of fighters that counter Tyranitar reliably. In particular, Tyranitar fears facing Terrakion, Keldeo, Conkeldurr, and Lucario, all of which carry powerful STAB moves that hits on Tyranitar's hit Tyranitar on its weaker Defense stat and either a higher Speed stat or enough bulk to stomach at least two of Tyranitar's attacks. While it may be weak to Fire Blast, Breloom is a great Tyranitar counter due to its access to Spore and powerful STAB moves. Many of these fighters can be properly handled by Latios, Latias, and Reuniclus, all of which present their own unique advantages and disadvantages. If you want to take a more defensive spin, Amoonguss can be used to check Breloom, Virizion, and Keldeo, and Poison Heal Gliscor can be used to keep tabs on Terrakion, Lucario, and Conkeldurr, provided the latter two do not run Ice Punch. Scizor,(comma) with and its powerful Bullet Punch and U-turn,(comma) are all is also a massive problems problem for Tyranitar. Magnezone and Heatran can establish themselves as are thus great partners due to their ability to reliably take Scizor down. Garchomp, Terrakion, Landorus, and Stoutland are great offensive partners due to the benefits they gain from the sand that the tyrant brings.</p>
[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Pursuit
move 2: Crunch
move 3: Stone Edge
move 4: Superpower
item: Choice Scarf
nature: Jolly
ability: Sand Stream
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This is similar to the quintessential Choice Scarf set that can be seen on many offensively inclined Pokemon, but Tyranitar's Scarf set is special because it can outpace and trap many common, threatening Pokemon, ranging from offensive Psychic behemoths such as the Lati twins to frail weather sweepers, such as Sawsbuck and Starmie. However, it fails to outpace Therian Tornadus, which is this set's largest shortcoming. Pursuit is listed first because this set's primary purpose is to trap and kill off weakened Pokemon. Crunch lets Tyranitar get a harder hit on Jellicent and Reuniclus, Pokemon that can usually tank a Pursuit when they don't switch. Stone Edge is Tyranitar's most powerful STAB move, and gives it the power to revenge kill Flying-type Pokemon and unboosted Volcarona.(full stop) Superpower is useful for catching opposing Lucario and non-Choice Scarf Scarfed Terrakion off-guard.</p>
[may want to mention that Alakazam outruns Scarftar and OHKOes with Focus Blast, so you can't Pursuit-trap it]
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>If revenge killing opposing Gliscor and Landorus is something your team desperately needs, then Ice Beam and a Hasty nature can be used. Fire Punch can be used to throw Scizor and non-Choice Scarf Genesect off their hinges, but it doesn't exactly get the best neutral coverage, and leaves Tyranitar open to Heatran. Fire Blast can be used with a Hasty nature to hit the aforementioned Pokemon with a stronger attack on the special side, but it has little utility outside of that. Earthquake can be used to get a stronger hit on Jirachi and Metagross, but is a lackluster option otherwise.</p>
<p>Since this Tyranitar is weaker than its Banded Choice Band counterpart, it's more prone to being walled and forced out. As of such, powerful partners, such as Choice Band Terrakion or Choice Specs Latios, are something that should be sought out. Hazards Entry hazards are always appreciated due to the reduced power of this set. This lets Tyranitar gain exceptional mileage when utilized on stall teams, who already utilize plenty of hazards and typically employ walls that can defeat the Fighting-types that plague it. Alternatively, if a more offensive team style is desired, then Deoxys-D, Terrakion, or Scolipede can be used to guarantee the presence of hazards. Since this Tyranitar is adept at eliminating powerful,(remove) but frail Ghosts, Stoutland and Landorus make exceptional partners for it.</p>
[OTHER OPTIONS]
<p>As mentioned in the Overview, Tyranitar's movepool is especially impressive, offering multiple options for boosting, from Hone Claws to Dragon Dance to Curse, as well as a multitude of attacks, ranging from Aqua Tail to Dragon Claw, and a few support options. While Dragon Dance used to be granted a set of its own, the ubiquity of Technician Breloom, as well as Tornadus-T, who outspeeds even after a boost in Speed, has made it somewhat irrelevant. A mixed Dragon Dance set can be used to break stall, but it too faces the same problems a purely physical Dragon Dance set faces. TyraniBoah, a relic from the days of RSE OU, still holds some merit for stall-breaking, thanks to its power and unpredictability behind a Substitute, but ultimately is a lesser option, thanks to the sheer force of offense reducing the usage of stall teams. Curse is still out there, but it faces the same problems the Dragon Dance sets face, and is more vulnerable to Trick, due to Curse's speed-reducing effects. If you desire recovery outside of Leftovers on Tyranitar, then a ResTalk Rest + Sleep Talk set can be used, but it is thwarted by faster Taunters. Roar can be used to pHaze out certain targets, but Tyranitar is an inferior pHazer, especially when compared to its colleagues, Hippowdon and Skarmory. Among the support moves offered by Tyranitar, Thunder Wave stands out as a fantastic option, since many Pokemon used to check it are fast Pokemon that do not appreciate paralysis, and can be used to support itself and some of its slower teammates.</p>
[Checks and Counters]
<p>Naturally, Fighting-types, which possess resistances to Tyranitar's STAB moves and STAB on moves that affect Tyranitar's largest weakness, are its best counters. Among them, Terrakion and Breloom are best suited for to dealing with it, thanks to the former's access to Justified, which grants it an Attack Boost for switching into Crunch, and the latter's powerful Technician-boosted Mach Punch. However, Terrakion must beware of a stray Superpower, and Breloom a Fire Blast or Ice Beam. Keldeo stands as a respectable counter, threatening Tyranitar with a powerful Secret Sword. Conkeldurr can exploit its immense bulk and use Tyranitar as set-up fodder or force a KO on it with its powerful moves. Lucario, while it must watch out for the same moves as Terrakion, is endowed with a 4x resistance to Tyranitar's STABs and access to Close Combat.</p>
<p>However, Fighting-types are not the only way to halt a Tyranitar's rampage. Steel-types also possess a resistance to its STAB moves and the ability to smack one of its weaknesses. Among them, Jirachi and Scizor stand as the best to combat Tyranitar, with the latter only fearing an unexpected Fire Blast. Skarmory, Ferrothorn, and Forretress work, but they all must watch out for a Fire Blast, and in the case of Ferrothorn, a Superpower. Ground-types also work well as checks and counters. Gliscor is the best among all of them thanks to its massive Defense and powerful Earthquake. While Landorus-T may not have Poison Heal, it does get Intimidate, which allows it to sponge even the strongest of hits from Tyranitar, and a massive base 145 Attack stat, which lets it put the hurt on with Earthquake. Hippowdon has even more bulk than Gliscor and Landorus-T, and also gets Slack Off, allowing it to stall Tyranitar out <i>ad infinitum</i> ["ad infinitum" doesn't require italicising].</p>
<p>It's much easier to check Tyranitar than it is to counter it, thanks to its rather low speed Speed and horrendous defensive typing defensively. Thanks to its access to Arena Trap, STAB Earthquake, and Reversal, Dugtrio can serve as one of the best Tyranitar checks in existence, unless Tyranitar chooses to run a Shed Shell. While it won't enjoy a powerful Crunch or Superpower, Garchomp can come in and threaten to KO with Earthquake or use it as set-up fodder. Users of Will-O-Wisp, such as Mew and Sableye, can easily render its gigantic Attack stat to nought. Ninetales, despite being weak to Stone Edge, can also send Tyranitar's Attack stat crashing down, with the extra bonus of shifting the weather with Drought. On the topic of opposing weather inducers, Politoed and Abomasnow are massive pains for Tyranitar to deal with, since they carry super-effective STABs STAB attacks and rob Tyranitar of its Special Defense boost. Thanks to the Superpower tutor in BW2, Stoutland and Hydreigon make their debut in this extensive list of checks and counters. The former can exploit the sand that Tyranitar brings about, and the latter resists Tyranitar's Dark-type STAB and Fire Blast. Mamoswine, while not a newcomer to this list, was buffed with a new-found neutrality to Fire Blast, giving it a greater ability to switch in on Tyranitar. This extensive list exists only because Tyranitar is such an anti-metagame force, and is one that almost every team must prepare for prepares for by exploiting its lack of Speed and horrible typing.</p>
[/HIDE]
[gp]1/2[/gp]
You may want to replace Venusaur with another threat like Gothitelle or Ninetales, since Tyranitar can't really combat Venusuar given the Grass-type STAB and ability to shrug off most of its attacks.Sentence from the Support set said:
Waiting for one more GP check.
let's get down to business
GP APPROVED [2/2]
A few sentences seemed kind of unnecessary, and I think the Overview could do with a little less of the flowery prose, especially when compared to the rest of the analysis. You might want to reorganize the AC sections for all of the sets if you have extra time; some of the sentences there seem to be put in a haphazard order and rearranging it so that the related sections (EV and Item choices, teammates, then counters or something like that instead of switching from one to the other) will make it more lucid.
[Overview]
<p>With Pokemon Black and White 2 came the Therian formes and Keldeo, all of whom have bolstered the power of rain teams and worn down Tyranitar's prominence like waves against a cliff. Some older threats, such as Breloom and Mamoswine, have had new life breathed into them with their Dream World abilities. A few new Pokemon have also been added to Tyranitar's list of headaches due to their new access to Superpower, courtesy of the move tutors, who have decided not to give Tyranitar much to improve its admittedly already impressive movepool. The same Fighting-types that troubled Tyranitar before still remain in OU, ready to pounce on it at any moment. The general pace of the metagame has increased, making Tyranitar's life in OU more difficult to maintain than ever before.</p>
<p>However, Tyranitar maintains a powerful and respectable niche as one of two automatic sandstorm inducers, which is important due to the the ubiquity of weather in OU. While Hippowdon may give Tyranitar a substantial amount of competition for a team slot, the tyrant has many advantages up its sleeve: increased special bulk under sandstorm, a better movepool, and the ability to smite many of its would-be counters on the switch with its raw power and impressive movepool. Tyranitar's ability to support potent sweepers, such as Landorus, Stoutland, Garchomp, and Sandslash, while fending off powerful specially-based threats, such as Latios, Latias, Gengar, and Starmie, further expand its niche in OU. Overall, while many new threats have conspired to dethrone the tyrant, they have yet to succeed, for Tyranitar has retained an iron grasp on its throne as one of the many kings of OU.</p>
[SET]
name: Choice Band
move 1: Stone Edge
move 2: Crunch
move 3: Pursuit
move 4: Superpower
item: Choice Band
nature: Adamant
ability: Sand Stream
evs: 180 HP / 252 Atk / 76 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>When equipped with a Choice Band, it is easy to see why Tyranitar is one of the most-feared Pokemon in OU. Boasting an absolutely massive 604 Attack, not many Pokemon will have business switching in on it. Opposing weather inducers not named Hippowdon will fear switching into its powerful attacks, making this set ideal for those that want to win the weather war decisively. Stall teams will be hard-pressed to keep up with its onslaught due to the sheer power it possesses, and offensive teams won't like having to sacrifice one of their team members so another one can receive a free switch-in.</p>
<p>Despite its accuracy, Stone Edge is Tyranitar's main STAB move solely for its power and is capable of OHKOing or 2HKOing those that lack a resistance to it and even some that do. Crunch is a more accurate move that lets Tyranitar make short work of Jellicent, Reuniclus, and Celebi. Pursuit gives Tyranitar the ability to trap and kill the frail Psychic- and Ghost-types that would rather not stay in on any of Tyranitar's attacks. Superpower is the best move to use in the last slot, due to its ability to brutalize Steel-types and other Pokemon that resist its STAB moves. Superpower also gives Tyranitar the ability to land a crippling blow on Keldeo and Breloom, two of its biggest threats, on the switch.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The given EV spread maximizes Tyranitar's power while giving it the ability to outpace uninvested base 70s. The remaining EVs are placed into HP to give Tyranitar more bulk. Aqua Tail can be used over Superpower to smack Pokemon like Hippowdon, Gliscor, and Donphan around, but that is usually better left to teammates. Ice Punch can be used to get a surprise blow on powerful Dragons, but most are already hit hard enough by Stone Edge and the main Dragon-types Tyranitar should be facing, Latios and Latias, are scared witless by Crunch and Pursuit. Fire Punch is a great move for those that want to nab a surprise KO on Scizor, one of Tyranitar's most common counters. Earthquake provides mostly redundant coverage, but it still can see some use if your team is vulnerable to Jirachi, Tentacruel, or Metagross. More often than not, however, Superpower is the better option.</p>
<p>This set has no guaranteed counters due to its sheer power, but unfortunately it does have plenty of checks. While Breloom, Terrakion, and Keldeo won't enjoy taking a Superpower, they can switch in on Tyranitar's STAB moves and force it out with the threat of powerful Fighting-type moves. Teammates such as Latios, Latias, and Reuniclus make great checks and counters to those Fighting-types. This also works in reverse; Keldeo and other Fighting-types appreciate Tyranitar's ability to annihilate Latios and Latias, and in turn, Tyranitar appreciates their ability to lure in Psychic-types, most of which are easy prey for it. While Garchomp will not enjoy eating a STAB Crunch, it can easily switch into Tyranitar's other moves and threaten it with its STAB Earthquake. Other offensive monsters such as Landorus, Terrakion, Garchomp, and Stoutland enjoy the sandstorm and wall-breaking power that Tyranitar brings along. As Tyranitar has trouble with physical walls that resist its STAB moves, Pokemon such as Heatran form great partnerships with it. If special bulk is prioritized over power, then an EV spread of 252 HP / 36 Atk / 220 SpD can be used at the expense of quite a bit of power.</p>
[SET]
name: Support
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Pursuit
move 3: Crunch
move 4: Fire Blast / Superpower / Stone Edge
item: Leftovers
nature: Sassy / Careful
ability: Sand Stream
evs: 252 HP / 4 Atk / 252 SpD
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>With appropriate investment and the Special Defense boost in a sandstorm, Tyranitar gains the ability to combat several notable specially-based threats, such as Latios, Ninetales, and Jolteon. Tyranitar can also reliably set up Stealth Rock because of its ability to threaten the Pokemon that possess Magic Bounce with its powerful Dark-type STAB attacks. Stealth Rock is the only hazard Tyranitar sets up, but it is enough to easily cripple several important OU Pokemon, such as Ninetales, Volcarona, and Thundurus-T. Crunch is Tyranitar's most reliable STAB move, due to its ability to OHKO targets such as Latios, Gengar, and Starmie, and 2HKO several other Pokemon. Pursuit is Tyranitar's other STAB move, and is great for trapping frail Pokemon that switch out in fear of a powerful attack. Fire Blast is the preferred move in the last slot because it allows Tyranitar to defeat Forretress and Ferrothorn, while retaining the ability to hurt Breloom, Genesect, and Scizor.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>Sassy is the preferred nature, since it lowers Tyranitar's already dismal Speed while maximizing its Special Defense. If more power is desired, a more offensive spread and an Adamant nature can be used, but this comes at the cost of a noticeable decrease in special bulk. Superpower can be used to get a more solid hit on several Pokemon, such as Terrakion (who must be hit on the switch), opposing Tyranitar, and Mamoswine. Stone Edge is an option if you want to use Tyranitar's other STAB type. Keep in mind, though, that the lack of Fire Blast or Superpower gives the Fighting-types in OU a free switch, allowing them to set up and wreak havoc. If your team already has Stealth Rock on another Pokemon, then an extra coverage move can be used in that slot.</p>
<p>While Leftovers may be the preferred item, a Chople or Lum Berry can be used instead. A Chople Berry, while seemingly useless, is actually useful for taking Focus Blasts and Superpowers from the Therian formes, Reuniclus, and Hydreigon. Lum Berry sees some use in granting Tyranitar a temporary immunity to status, granting it the ability to best defensive Ninetales and Politoed, and other Pokemon that rely on status. At the cost of a small amount of recovery each turn, Shed Shell can also be used to avoid being trapped by Dugtrio or Wobbuffet, helping Tyranitar win the weather war for the rest of its team.</p>
<p>Fighting-types have always been Tyranitar's bane, and this generation has only added to the myriad of Pokemon that counter Tyranitar reliably. In particular, Tyranitar fears facing Terrakion, Keldeo, Conkeldurr, and Lucario, all of whom carry powerful STAB moves that hit Tyranitar on its weaker Defense stat and possess either a higher Speed stat or enough bulk to stomach at least two of Tyranitar's attacks. While it may be weak to Fire Blast, Breloom is a great Tyranitar counter due to its access to Spore and powerful STAB moves. Many of these Fighting-type Pokemon can be properly handled by Latios, Latias, and Reuniclus, all of which present their own unique advantages and disadvantages. If you want to take a more defensive approach, Amoonguss can be used to check Breloom, Virizion, and Keldeo, and Poison Heal Gliscor can be used to keep tabs on Terrakion, Lucario, and Conkeldurr, provided the latter two do not run Ice Punch. Scizor, with its powerful Bullet Punch and U-turn, is also a massive problem for Tyranitar; Magnezone and Heatran are thus great partners due to their ability to reliably take Scizor down. Garchomp, Terrakion, Landorus, and Stoutland are great offensive partners, as all of them benefit greatly from sandstorm.</p>
[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Pursuit
move 2: Crunch
move 3: Stone Edge
move 4: Superpower
item: Choice Scarf
nature: Jolly
ability: Sand Stream
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This is similar to the quintessential Choice Scarf set that can be seen on many offensively inclined Pokemon, but Tyranitar's Choice Scarf set is special because it can outpace and trap many common, threatening Pokemon, ranging from offensive Psychic-type behemoths such as the Latios to frail weather sweepers such as Sawsbuck and Starmie. However, it fails to outpace Tornadus-T and Alakazam, both of which are capable of OHKOing with Superpower and Focus Blast, respectively, which is this set's largest shortcoming. Pursuit is listed first because this set's primary purpose is to trap and kill off weakened Pokemon. Crunch lets Tyranitar get a harder hit on Jellicent and Reuniclus, Pokemon that can usually tank a Pursuit when they don't switch. Stone Edge is Tyranitar's most powerful STAB move, and gives it the power to revenge kill Flying-type Pokemon and unboosted Volcarona. Superpower is useful for catching opposing Lucario and Terrakion off-guard, providing they don't have a Choice Scarf as well.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>If revenge killing opposing Gliscor and Landorus is something your team desperately needs, then Ice Beam and a Hasty nature can be used. Fire Punch can be used to throw Scizor and non-Choice Scarf Genesect off their hinges, but it doesn't exactly get the best neutral coverage and leaves Tyranitar open to Heatran. Fire Blast can be used with a Hasty nature to hit the aforementioned Pokemon with a stronger attack on the special side, but it has little utility outside of that. Earthquake can be used to get a stronger hit on Jirachi and Metagross, but is a lackluster option otherwise.</p>
<p>Since this Tyranitar is weaker than its Choice Band counterpart, it is more prone to being walled and forced out. As such, powerful partners, such as Choice Band Terrakion or Choice Specs Latios, should be used alongside it. Entry hazards are always appreciated due to the reduced power of this set; in particular, they allow Tyranitar to gain exceptional mileage when utilized on stall teams, who already utilize plenty of hazards and typically employ walls that can defeat the Fighting-types that plague Tyranitar. Alternatively, if a more offensive team style is desired, then Deoxys-D, Terrakion, or Scolipede can be used to guarantee the presence of hazards. Since this Tyranitar is adept at eliminating powerful but frail Ghost-types, Stoutland and Landorus make exceptional partners for it.</p>
[Other Options]
<p>Tyranitar's movepool is especially impressive, offering multiple options for boosting, from Hone Claws to Dragon Dance to Curse, a multitude of attacks, and a few support options. While Dragon Dance used to have a set of its own, the ubiquity of Technician Breloom as well as Tornadus-T, who outspeeds even after a Dragon Dance boost, has made it somewhat irrelevant. A mixed Dragon Dance set can be used to break stall, but it too faces the same problems a purely physical Dragon Dance set faces. TyraniBoah, a relic from the days of RSE OU, still holds some merit for stall-breaking thanks to its power and unpredictability behind a Substitute, but it is ultimately a lesser option due to the sheer force of offense reducing the usage of stall teams. Curse is still out there, but it faces the same problems the Dragon Dance sets face and is more vulnerable to Trick, due to Curse's speed-reducing effects. If you desire recovery outside of Leftovers on Tyranitar, then a Rest + Sleep Talk set can be used, but it is thwarted by faster Taunt users. Roar can be used to phaze out certain targets, but Tyranitar is an inferior phazer when compared to other choices, such as Hippowdon and Skarmory. Among the support moves offered by Tyranitar, Thunder Wave stands out as a fantastic option, since many Pokemon used to check it are fast Pokemon that do not appreciate paralysis, and can be used to support itself and some of its slower teammates.</p>
[Checks and Counters]
<p>Naturally, Fighting-types, which possess resistances to Tyranitar's STAB moves and STAB on moves that affect Tyranitar's largest weakness, are its best counters. Among them, Terrakion and Breloom are best suited to dealing with it, thanks to the former's access to Justified and the latter's powerful Technician-boosted Mach Punch. However, Terrakion must beware of a stray Superpower, and Breloom a Fire Blast or Ice Beam. Keldeo stands as a respectable counter, threatening Tyranitar with a powerful Secret Sword. Conkeldurr can use its own immense bulk and use Tyranitar as set-up fodder or force a KO on it with its powerful moves. While it must watch out for the same moves as Terrakion, Lucario is endowed with a 4x resistance to Tyranitar's STABs and access to Close Combat.</p>
<p>However, Fighting-types are not the only way to halt a Tyranitar's rampage. Steel-types also possess a resistance to its STAB moves and the ability to smack one of its weaknesses. Among them, Jirachi and Scizor stand out, with the latter only fearing an unexpected Fire Blast. Skarmory, Ferrothorn, and Forretress work as well, but they all must watch out for Fire Blast, and in the case of Ferrothorn, Superpower. Ground-types also work well; Gliscor is the best among all of them thanks to its massive Defense and powerful Earthquake. While Landorus-T may not have Poison Heal, it does get Intimidate, which allows it to sponge even the strongest of hits from Tyranitar, and a massive base 145 Attack stat, making its Earthquake absurdly powerful. Hippowdon has even more bulk than Gliscor and Landorus-T, and gets Slack Off as well, allowing it to stall Tyranitar out ad infinitum.
<p>It's much easier to check Tyranitar than it is to counter it, thanks to its rather low Speed and horrendous defensive typing. Thanks to its access to Arena Trap, STAB Earthquake, and Reversal, Dugtrio can serve as one of the best Tyranitar checks in existence, unless Tyranitar chooses to run a Shed Shell. While it won't enjoy a powerful Crunch or Superpower, Garchomp can come in and threaten to KO with Earthquake or use it as set-up fodder. Users of Will-O-Wisp, such as Mew and Sableye, can easily render its gigantic Attack stat to naught. Ninetales, despite being weak to Stone Edge, can also send Tyranitar's Attack stat crashing down, with the extra bonus of shifting the weather with Drought. Other opposing weather inducers, Politoed and Abomasnow, are massive pains for Tyranitar to deal with, since they carry super-effective STAB attacks and rob Tyranitar of its Special Defense boost. Thanks to the Superpower tutor, Stoutland and Hydreigon are also good checks; the former can use sandstorm against Tyranitar, while the latter resists Tyranitar's Dark-type STAB and Fire Blast. Mamoswine, while not a newcomer to this list, is now an even better check thanks to Thick Fat, giving it a greater ability to switch in on Tyranitar.</p>
<p>With Pokemon Black and White 2 came the Therian formes and Keldeo, all of whom have bolstered the power of rain teams and worn down Tyranitar's prominence like waves against a cliff. Some older threats, such as Breloom and Mamoswine, have had new life breathed into them with their Dream World abilities. A few new Pokemon have also been added to Tyranitar's list of headaches due to their new access to Superpower, courtesy of the move tutors, who have decided not to give Tyranitar much to improve its admittedly already impressive movepool. The same Fighting-types that troubled Tyranitar before still remain in OU, ready to pounce on it at any moment. The general pace of the metagame has increased, making Tyranitar's life in OU more difficult to maintain than ever before.</p>
<p>However, Tyranitar maintains a powerful and respectable niche as one of two automatic sandstorm inducers, which is important due to the the ubiquity of weather in OU. While Hippowdon may give Tyranitar a substantial amount of competition for a team slot, the tyrant has many advantages up its sleeve: increased special bulk under sandstorm, a better movepool, and the ability to smite many of its would-be counters on the switch with its raw power and impressive movepool. Tyranitar's ability to support potent sweepers, such as Landorus, Stoutland, Garchomp, and Sandslash, while fending off powerful specially-based threats, such as Latios, Latias, Gengar, and Starmie, further expand its niche in OU. Overall, while many new threats have conspired to dethrone the tyrant, they have yet to succeed, for Tyranitar has retained an iron grasp on its throne as one of the many kings of OU.</p>
[SET]
name: Choice Band
move 1: Stone Edge
move 2: Crunch
move 3: Pursuit
move 4: Superpower
item: Choice Band
nature: Adamant
ability: Sand Stream
evs: 180 HP / 252 Atk / 76 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>When equipped with a Choice Band, it is easy to see why Tyranitar is one of the most-feared Pokemon in OU. Boasting an absolutely massive 604 Attack, not many Pokemon will have business switching in on it. Opposing weather inducers not named Hippowdon will fear switching into its powerful attacks, making this set ideal for those that want to win the weather war decisively. Stall teams will be hard-pressed to keep up with its onslaught due to the sheer power it possesses, and offensive teams won't like having to sacrifice one of their team members so another one can receive a free switch-in.</p>
<p>Despite its accuracy, Stone Edge is Tyranitar's main STAB move solely for its power and is capable of OHKOing or 2HKOing those that lack a resistance to it and even some that do. Crunch is a more accurate move that lets Tyranitar make short work of Jellicent, Reuniclus, and Celebi. Pursuit gives Tyranitar the ability to trap and kill the frail Psychic- and Ghost-types that would rather not stay in on any of Tyranitar's attacks. Superpower is the best move to use in the last slot, due to its ability to brutalize Steel-types and other Pokemon that resist its STAB moves. Superpower also gives Tyranitar the ability to land a crippling blow on Keldeo and Breloom, two of its biggest threats, on the switch.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The given EV spread maximizes Tyranitar's power while giving it the ability to outpace uninvested base 70s. The remaining EVs are placed into HP to give Tyranitar more bulk. Aqua Tail can be used over Superpower to smack Pokemon like Hippowdon, Gliscor, and Donphan around, but that is usually better left to teammates. Ice Punch can be used to get a surprise blow on powerful Dragons, but most are already hit hard enough by Stone Edge and the main Dragon-types Tyranitar should be facing, Latios and Latias, are scared witless by Crunch and Pursuit. Fire Punch is a great move for those that want to nab a surprise KO on Scizor, one of Tyranitar's most common counters. Earthquake provides mostly redundant coverage, but it still can see some use if your team is vulnerable to Jirachi, Tentacruel, or Metagross. More often than not, however, Superpower is the better option.</p>
<p>This set has no guaranteed counters due to its sheer power, but unfortunately it does have plenty of checks. While Breloom, Terrakion, and Keldeo won't enjoy taking a Superpower, they can switch in on Tyranitar's STAB moves and force it out with the threat of powerful Fighting-type moves. Teammates such as Latios, Latias, and Reuniclus make great checks and counters to those Fighting-types. This also works in reverse; Keldeo and other Fighting-types appreciate Tyranitar's ability to annihilate Latios and Latias, and in turn, Tyranitar appreciates their ability to lure in Psychic-types, most of which are easy prey for it. While Garchomp will not enjoy eating a STAB Crunch, it can easily switch into Tyranitar's other moves and threaten it with its STAB Earthquake. Other offensive monsters such as Landorus, Terrakion, Garchomp, and Stoutland enjoy the sandstorm and wall-breaking power that Tyranitar brings along. As Tyranitar has trouble with physical walls that resist its STAB moves, Pokemon such as Heatran form great partnerships with it. If special bulk is prioritized over power, then an EV spread of 252 HP / 36 Atk / 220 SpD can be used at the expense of quite a bit of power.</p>
[SET]
name: Support
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Pursuit
move 3: Crunch
move 4: Fire Blast / Superpower / Stone Edge
item: Leftovers
nature: Sassy / Careful
ability: Sand Stream
evs: 252 HP / 4 Atk / 252 SpD
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>With appropriate investment and the Special Defense boost in a sandstorm, Tyranitar gains the ability to combat several notable specially-based threats, such as Latios, Ninetales, and Jolteon. Tyranitar can also reliably set up Stealth Rock because of its ability to threaten the Pokemon that possess Magic Bounce with its powerful Dark-type STAB attacks. Stealth Rock is the only hazard Tyranitar sets up, but it is enough to easily cripple several important OU Pokemon, such as Ninetales, Volcarona, and Thundurus-T. Crunch is Tyranitar's most reliable STAB move, due to its ability to OHKO targets such as Latios, Gengar, and Starmie, and 2HKO several other Pokemon. Pursuit is Tyranitar's other STAB move, and is great for trapping frail Pokemon that switch out in fear of a powerful attack. Fire Blast is the preferred move in the last slot because it allows Tyranitar to defeat Forretress and Ferrothorn, while retaining the ability to hurt Breloom, Genesect, and Scizor.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>Sassy is the preferred nature, since it lowers Tyranitar's already dismal Speed while maximizing its Special Defense. If more power is desired, a more offensive spread and an Adamant nature can be used, but this comes at the cost of a noticeable decrease in special bulk. Superpower can be used to get a more solid hit on several Pokemon, such as Terrakion (who must be hit on the switch), opposing Tyranitar, and Mamoswine. Stone Edge is an option if you want to use Tyranitar's other STAB type. Keep in mind, though, that the lack of Fire Blast or Superpower gives the Fighting-types in OU a free switch, allowing them to set up and wreak havoc. If your team already has Stealth Rock on another Pokemon, then an extra coverage move can be used in that slot.</p>
<p>While Leftovers may be the preferred item, a Chople or Lum Berry can be used instead. A Chople Berry, while seemingly useless, is actually useful for taking Focus Blasts and Superpowers from the Therian formes, Reuniclus, and Hydreigon. Lum Berry sees some use in granting Tyranitar a temporary immunity to status, granting it the ability to best defensive Ninetales and Politoed, and other Pokemon that rely on status. At the cost of a small amount of recovery each turn, Shed Shell can also be used to avoid being trapped by Dugtrio or Wobbuffet, helping Tyranitar win the weather war for the rest of its team.</p>
<p>Fighting-types have always been Tyranitar's bane, and this generation has only added to the myriad of Pokemon that counter Tyranitar reliably. In particular, Tyranitar fears facing Terrakion, Keldeo, Conkeldurr, and Lucario, all of whom carry powerful STAB moves that hit Tyranitar on its weaker Defense stat and possess either a higher Speed stat or enough bulk to stomach at least two of Tyranitar's attacks. While it may be weak to Fire Blast, Breloom is a great Tyranitar counter due to its access to Spore and powerful STAB moves. Many of these Fighting-type Pokemon can be properly handled by Latios, Latias, and Reuniclus, all of which present their own unique advantages and disadvantages. If you want to take a more defensive approach, Amoonguss can be used to check Breloom, Virizion, and Keldeo, and Poison Heal Gliscor can be used to keep tabs on Terrakion, Lucario, and Conkeldurr, provided the latter two do not run Ice Punch. Scizor, with its powerful Bullet Punch and U-turn, is also a massive problem for Tyranitar; Magnezone and Heatran are thus great partners due to their ability to reliably take Scizor down. Garchomp, Terrakion, Landorus, and Stoutland are great offensive partners, as all of them benefit greatly from sandstorm.</p>
[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Pursuit
move 2: Crunch
move 3: Stone Edge
move 4: Superpower
item: Choice Scarf
nature: Jolly
ability: Sand Stream
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This is similar to the quintessential Choice Scarf set that can be seen on many offensively inclined Pokemon, but Tyranitar's Choice Scarf set is special because it can outpace and trap many common, threatening Pokemon, ranging from offensive Psychic-type behemoths such as the Latios to frail weather sweepers such as Sawsbuck and Starmie. However, it fails to outpace Tornadus-T and Alakazam, both of which are capable of OHKOing with Superpower and Focus Blast, respectively, which is this set's largest shortcoming. Pursuit is listed first because this set's primary purpose is to trap and kill off weakened Pokemon. Crunch lets Tyranitar get a harder hit on Jellicent and Reuniclus, Pokemon that can usually tank a Pursuit when they don't switch. Stone Edge is Tyranitar's most powerful STAB move, and gives it the power to revenge kill Flying-type Pokemon and unboosted Volcarona. Superpower is useful for catching opposing Lucario and Terrakion off-guard, providing they don't have a Choice Scarf as well.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>If revenge killing opposing Gliscor and Landorus is something your team desperately needs, then Ice Beam and a Hasty nature can be used. Fire Punch can be used to throw Scizor and non-Choice Scarf Genesect off their hinges, but it doesn't exactly get the best neutral coverage and leaves Tyranitar open to Heatran. Fire Blast can be used with a Hasty nature to hit the aforementioned Pokemon with a stronger attack on the special side, but it has little utility outside of that. Earthquake can be used to get a stronger hit on Jirachi and Metagross, but is a lackluster option otherwise.</p>
<p>Since this Tyranitar is weaker than its Choice Band counterpart, it is more prone to being walled and forced out. As such, powerful partners, such as Choice Band Terrakion or Choice Specs Latios, should be used alongside it. Entry hazards are always appreciated due to the reduced power of this set; in particular, they allow Tyranitar to gain exceptional mileage when utilized on stall teams, who already utilize plenty of hazards and typically employ walls that can defeat the Fighting-types that plague Tyranitar. Alternatively, if a more offensive team style is desired, then Deoxys-D, Terrakion, or Scolipede can be used to guarantee the presence of hazards. Since this Tyranitar is adept at eliminating powerful but frail Ghost-types, Stoutland and Landorus make exceptional partners for it.</p>
[Other Options]
<p>Tyranitar's movepool is especially impressive, offering multiple options for boosting, from Hone Claws to Dragon Dance to Curse, a multitude of attacks, and a few support options. While Dragon Dance used to have a set of its own, the ubiquity of Technician Breloom as well as Tornadus-T, who outspeeds even after a Dragon Dance boost, has made it somewhat irrelevant. A mixed Dragon Dance set can be used to break stall, but it too faces the same problems a purely physical Dragon Dance set faces. TyraniBoah, a relic from the days of RSE OU, still holds some merit for stall-breaking thanks to its power and unpredictability behind a Substitute, but it is ultimately a lesser option due to the sheer force of offense reducing the usage of stall teams. Curse is still out there, but it faces the same problems the Dragon Dance sets face and is more vulnerable to Trick, due to Curse's speed-reducing effects. If you desire recovery outside of Leftovers on Tyranitar, then a Rest + Sleep Talk set can be used, but it is thwarted by faster Taunt users. Roar can be used to phaze out certain targets, but Tyranitar is an inferior phazer when compared to other choices, such as Hippowdon and Skarmory. Among the support moves offered by Tyranitar, Thunder Wave stands out as a fantastic option, since many Pokemon used to check it are fast Pokemon that do not appreciate paralysis, and can be used to support itself and some of its slower teammates.</p>
[Checks and Counters]
<p>Naturally, Fighting-types, which possess resistances to Tyranitar's STAB moves and STAB on moves that affect Tyranitar's largest weakness, are its best counters. Among them, Terrakion and Breloom are best suited to dealing with it, thanks to the former's access to Justified and the latter's powerful Technician-boosted Mach Punch. However, Terrakion must beware of a stray Superpower, and Breloom a Fire Blast or Ice Beam. Keldeo stands as a respectable counter, threatening Tyranitar with a powerful Secret Sword. Conkeldurr can use its own immense bulk and use Tyranitar as set-up fodder or force a KO on it with its powerful moves. While it must watch out for the same moves as Terrakion, Lucario is endowed with a 4x resistance to Tyranitar's STABs and access to Close Combat.</p>
<p>However, Fighting-types are not the only way to halt a Tyranitar's rampage. Steel-types also possess a resistance to its STAB moves and the ability to smack one of its weaknesses. Among them, Jirachi and Scizor stand out, with the latter only fearing an unexpected Fire Blast. Skarmory, Ferrothorn, and Forretress work as well, but they all must watch out for Fire Blast, and in the case of Ferrothorn, Superpower. Ground-types also work well; Gliscor is the best among all of them thanks to its massive Defense and powerful Earthquake. While Landorus-T may not have Poison Heal, it does get Intimidate, which allows it to sponge even the strongest of hits from Tyranitar, and a massive base 145 Attack stat, making its Earthquake absurdly powerful. Hippowdon has even more bulk than Gliscor and Landorus-T, and gets Slack Off as well, allowing it to stall Tyranitar out ad infinitum.
<p>It's much easier to check Tyranitar than it is to counter it, thanks to its rather low Speed and horrendous defensive typing. Thanks to its access to Arena Trap, STAB Earthquake, and Reversal, Dugtrio can serve as one of the best Tyranitar checks in existence, unless Tyranitar chooses to run a Shed Shell. While it won't enjoy a powerful Crunch or Superpower, Garchomp can come in and threaten to KO with Earthquake or use it as set-up fodder. Users of Will-O-Wisp, such as Mew and Sableye, can easily render its gigantic Attack stat to naught. Ninetales, despite being weak to Stone Edge, can also send Tyranitar's Attack stat crashing down, with the extra bonus of shifting the weather with Drought. Other opposing weather inducers, Politoed and Abomasnow, are massive pains for Tyranitar to deal with, since they carry super-effective STAB attacks and rob Tyranitar of its Special Defense boost. Thanks to the Superpower tutor, Stoutland and Hydreigon are also good checks; the former can use sandstorm against Tyranitar, while the latter resists Tyranitar's Dark-type STAB and Fire Blast. Mamoswine, while not a newcomer to this list, is now an even better check thanks to Thick Fat, giving it a greater ability to switch in on Tyranitar.</p>
GP APPROVED [2/2]
A few sentences seemed kind of unnecessary, and I think the Overview could do with a little less of the flowery prose, especially when compared to the rest of the analysis. You might want to reorganize the AC sections for all of the sets if you have extra time; some of the sentences there seem to be put in a haphazard order and rearranging it so that the related sections (EV and Item choices, teammates, then counters or something like that instead of switching from one to the other) will make it more lucid.
Alright. Tyranitar is done.
Before uploading this i want to say two things...
First, Hippowdon should really be emphasized as a counter. It is the single best all around Tyranitar counter in OU. PhD Hippo walls every main set Ttar has, and Ttar can win against it only if running moves that are in AC. So please emphasize Hippowdon as a counter in the AC of the CB set, and also in the checks and counters section, where you mention that Fighting-types are the best counters to Ttar, which is false, for the reasons i mentioned.
Second, although i am not a GP member, i found something that is either incorrect or just sounds bad. In the last sentence of the set comments of CBTar you say:
First, Hippowdon should really be emphasized as a counter. It is the single best all around Tyranitar counter in OU. PhD Hippo walls every main set Ttar has, and Ttar can win against it only if running moves that are in AC. So please emphasize Hippowdon as a counter in the AC of the CB set, and also in the checks and counters section, where you mention that Fighting-types are the best counters to Ttar, which is false, for the reasons i mentioned.
Second, although i am not a GP member, i found something that is either incorrect or just sounds bad. In the last sentence of the set comments of CBTar you say:
Two if its biggest enemies, or two if its biggest problems wouldn't fit much better?
Yes please emphasize Hippowdon as a Tyranitar counter. The only thing it fear is an Aqua Tail from CB Tar, which not many people run anymore. I guess DP-style MixTar may give physically-defensive Hippo problems, but that's another rarity, too. Do this, and TTar may be uploaded.
