Venusaur

[Muk]

Overview
########

The introduction of a Mega Evolution has turned Venusaur into the premier tank in XY OU, and for good reason. Impressive 80 / 123 / 120 defenses and the addition of the Thick Fat ability upon Mega Evolving allow it to switch in comfortably against practically any Water-, Electric-, or Fighting-type without fearing most of their coverage moves, and a convenient immunity to Toxic lets it take on even defensive threats. Moreover, as a Grass-type, Venusaur has several methods of restoring its HP that more than make up for the inability to hold Leftovers. It is no slouch offensively either, with a solid base 122 Special Attack and a good base 100 Attack after Mega Evolving as well as a wide movepool that grants it the ability to threaten many of its common switch-ins. Unfortunately, Venusaur is not always able to take advantage of this; it often finds itself wishing for additional moveslots, as it will invariably find itself walled by something. Additionally, while Venusaur's weaknesses are few, they are exploitable—Flying-type moves and Psyshock are not uncommon. Ultimately, however, Venusaur is able to check an absurd number of Pokemon, which makes it an appropriate fit on nearly any team.


Defensive
########
name: Defensive
move 1: Giga Drain
move 2: Sludge Bomb
move 3: Synthesis
move 4: Sleep Powder / Leech Seed / Hidden Power Fire
ability: Chlorophyll
item: Venusaurite
evs: 252 HP / 240 Def / 16 Spe
nature: Bold

Moves
========

Giga Drain is Venusaur's main STAB move and helps in keeping it healthy, as well as allowing it to outlast powerful attackers such as Landorus-T one-on-one. Sludge Bomb is a good secondary STAB move that is mainly used to hit Flying- and Dragon-types, and it also hits most Fairy-types super effectively. Sadly, Synthesis is Venusaur's only reliable recovery move other than Rest—its low PP and ineffectiveness in most weather conditions may present an issue, but it is necessary for healing alongside Giga Drain.

Several moves are viable options in the last slot. Sleep Powder can incapacitate a counter, though unfortunately it will not work against Ferrothorn, Mandibuzz, or Escavalier. Leech Seed offers yet another method of recovery in addition to a decent phazing tool, and it also gives Venusaur the ability to defeat Chansey and Blissey. Hidden Power Fire hits Steel-types such as Scizor, Ferrothorn, and Mawile super effectively. Unlike Sludge Bomb, it's also capable of damaging Chesnaught. Knock Off is particularly useful against Latios and Gengar, but it cripples almost anything else due to its added effect of removing items. Earthquake smashes the Steel-types that don't mind Hidden Power Fire, namely Heatran. Lastly, Roar is a much more reliable phazing tool than Leech Seed against setup sweepers and Substitute users.

Set Details
========

16 Speed EVs are used in order to outrun Adamant Azumarill and Mawile, though 20 Speed EVs should be used with Hidden Power Fire to compensate for the imperfect Speed IV it forces Venusaur to use. However, these EVs should be moved into Venusaur's defenses and a Relaxed nature should be used if Knock Off or Earthquake is chosen in the final slot. The rest of the EVs focus on making Venusaur as physically bulky as possible, but a specially defensive spread is also a viable option in order to let it deal with Pokemon such as Manaphy and Raikou more effectively. Chlorophyll is more useful than Overgrow prior to Mega Evolving, as it occasionally allows Venusaur to pick up a temporary Speed boost against teams that use Mega Charizard Y.

Usage Tips
========

It is imperative to get Venusaur in and let it Mega Evolve early, as it appreciates the added bulk and Thick Fat when switching in later. Also, try to make sure Venusaur's HP is high whenever it switches back out, since it needs to be healthy in order to switch in and check powerful threats such as Choice Specs Keldeo. Synthesis can be used to scout the movesets of faster Pokemon, but be wary of those with access to setup moves. Finally, keep in mind that although Venusaur will end up being walled by something depending on what it runs in the last slot, your opponent won't initially know what can actually wall Venusaur. For example, if you're using Earthquake, try not to reveal it until you're sure you can hit your opponent's Heatran.

Team Options
========

Venusaur makes itself at home on teams utilizing any of several different playstyles, such as balance, stall, and bulky offense. Therefore, it can be used with essentially any Pokemon that synergizes well with it defensively. Heatran forms an outstanding defensive core with Venusaur, as it is capable of taking Flying- and Psychic-type attacks with ease. Rotom-W works similarly, serving as a hard check to almost any user of Flying-type attacks. Aegislash is also a great switch-in to many Flying- and Psychic-types, such as Latios. Excadrill and Slowbro are good partners for Venusaur by virtue of their typing and abilities, as well as the former's immediate offensive presence. Skarmory and Bisharp pair decently with Venusaur as well, as Venusaur can cover their major weaknesses. Finally, Clefable and Quagsire are particularly effective alongside Venusaur on stall teams for their ability to deal with the setup sweepers that Venusaur struggles against.


Offensive
########
name: Offensive
move 1: Giga Drain
move 2: Sludge Bomb
move 3: Hidden Power Fire
move 4: Synthesis / Sleep Powder
ability: Chlorophyll
item: Venusaurite
evs: 232 HP / 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 20 Spe
nature: Modest

Moves
========

With maximum Special Attack investment, Giga Drain deals a solid amount of damage while simultaneously restoring a good chunk of Venusaur's health. Sludge Bomb hits the Flying- and Dragon-types that often try to switch in on Giga Drain for a surprisingly large amount of damage, easily 2HKOing Mega Pinsir and even 2HKOing Latios and Kyurem-B after Stealth Rock. Hidden Power Fire provides coverage against Steel-types and Chesnaught and will 2HKO most of them, including Ferrothorn and Bisharp. Synthesis provides valuable healing and is generally reliable on an offensive set, as Venusaur is capable of threatening every auto-inducer of rain, sand, or hail with the appropriate move. However, Sleep Powder is equally useful for its ability to disable a counter.

Three other moves are usable on this set. Earthquake is an option solely for Heatran, which is cleanly 2HKOed even if Venusaur uses a Modest nature. Knock Off is a decent option in the last slot against Gengar, Latias, and Chansey, and it allows Venusaur to pose a massive annoyance to stall teams. Leaf Storm is usable over Giga Drain for its significantly greater power, but it should only be used alongside Synthesis.

Set Details
========

Maximum Special Attack investment coupled with a Modest nature allows Venusaur's attacks to hit as hard as possible, while 20 Speed EVs allow Venusaur to outpace Adamant Azumarill and Mawile, factoring in the required IVs for Hidden Power Fire. The remaining EVs are placed in HP to increase Venusaur's overall bulk, though 4 EVs are moved into Special Defense in order to minimize residual damage. An alternative EV spread of 160 HP / 252 SpA / 96 Spe is also an option if Venusaur needs to outspeed Jolly Azumarill and Mawile.

If Knock Off is chosen in the final slot, a Quiet nature should be used and the Speed and Special Defense EVs should be moved into Attack. This grants Venusaur a 50% chance to OHKO 28 HP Gengar after Stealth Rock. Chlorophyll is the superior ability prior to Mega Evolving, as it can occasionally give Venusaur the ability to outspeed and KO a weakened Mega Charizard Y or take advantage of the sun it brings in general.

Usage Tips
========

As with the previous set, getting Venusaur in early so it can Mega Evolve is extremely valuable when attempting to switch it in later thanks to the addition of Thick Fat and the increase in its defensive stats. Again, if you opt for Earthquake in the last slot, try to hide the move until you're sure you can hit your opponent's Heatran with it. In addition, capitalize on the power of Sludge Bomb in particular; Venusaur can actually take out its common checks such as Latios if it hits them on the switch, and most of these Pokemon cannot OHKO Venusaur in return.

Team Options
========

This variant of Venusaur is particularly useful on bulky offensive teams. Heatran, Rotom-W, and Aegislash all have excellent synergy with Venusaur and perform well under this playstyle, making them ideal teammates. Excadrill is another good example of this, capable of taking Flying- and Psychic-type attacks while Venusaur easily defeats the Water- and Fighting-types it struggles against. Lastly, Bisharp and Tyranitar are great teammates for Venusaur, though Venusaur should not run Synthesis if used alongside the latter.


Other Options
########

Venusaur has no shortage of other options. First off, a Chlorophyll set without Venusaurite is usable with sun support from Mega Charizard Y. Power Whip is a physical Grass-type STAB option, but it leaves Venusaur prone to burns, and Venusaur appreciates the recovery that Giga Drain affords. Growth, Swords Dance, and Curse are all viable boosting moves that Venusaur can use. Stun Spore cripples the many fast Pokemon that like to switch in against Venusaur, but Sleep Powder is generally better, and Venusaur will rarely find room for both. Protect can be used alongside Leech Seed, but it often gives the opponent a free turn to switch out or set up. Finally, Grass Whistle is capable of putting Grass-types and Pokemon with Overcoat to sleep, but its low accuracy means that is generally inferior to Sleep Powder.

Checks & Counters
########

**Flying-types**: These include Talonflame, Mega Pinsir, Staraptor, Skarmory, Crobat, and Tornadus, all of which can switch in on Giga Drain and inflict massive damage on Venusaur with a super effective STAB move. However, most of them need to watch out for Sleep Powder and Sludge Bomb.

**Psychic-types**: Psychic-types such as Latios, Latias, Alakazam, Deoxys-S, Gothitelle, and Reuniclus easily take care of Venusaur with their STAB moves, only fearing Sleep Powder and the odd Knock Off. However, a Sludge Bomb from the offensive set will deal significant damage to all of them.

**Steel-types**: If Venusaur lacks the appropriate coverage move, Steel-types such as Ferrothorn, Scizor, Heatran, Aegislash, Mega Aggron, and Escavalier can switch in with impunity and either set up or attack. However, none of them bar Ferrothorn handle Leech Seed particularly well, and only Ferrothorn and Escavalier can switch in on Sleep Powder.

**Kyurem-B**: Teravolt allows Kyurem-B to bypass Thick Fat and KO Venusaur with Ice Beam. It can switch in on Giga Drain easily, and it often carries Substitute to block status and Leech Seed.

**Gengar**: Gengar resists both of Venusaur's STAB moves and is immune to Earthquake. It can also run Taunt or Substitute to deal with status and Leech Seed, meaning that it only fears Knock Off.

**Chesnaught**: Thanks to Bulletproof and its Grass typing, Chesnaught can switch in on any of Venusaur's attacks other than Hidden Power Fire and proceed to set up Spikes.

**Chansey and Blissey**: Venusaur is walled by Chansey and Blissey if it lacks Leech Seed. However, Knock Off will cripple them both, particularly Chansey.

**Setup Sweepers**: Bulky setup sweepers such as Volcarona and Dragonite don't mind Venusaur's attacks, especially if they have ways of dealing with Sleep Powder.

**Weather**: Weather conditions other than sun will reduce the amount of HP restored by Synthesis to a mere 25% of Venusaur's maximum HP.

Skeleton

Overview
########

• Fantastic tank thanks to its Mega Evolution, which increases its stats significantly and leaves it with only two weaknesses yet five useful resistances
  
• Good answer to nearly any Water-, Fighting-, or Electric-type
• Has multiple methods of recovery, which partially makes up for the lack of Leftovers
• Can also function as a Chlorophyll sweeper
• Though its weaknesses are few, they are exploitable; Flying-type STAB moves and Psyshock are not uncommon
• Severe 4MSS leaves it walled by many threats

Physically Defensive
########
name: Physically Defensive
move 1: Giga Drain
move 2: Sludge Bomb
move 3: Synthesis
move 4: Leech Seed
ability: Chlorophyll
item: Venusaurite
evs: 252 HP / 240 Def / 16 Spe
nature: Bold

Moves
========

• Giga Drain helps in keeping Venusaur healthy and allows it to outlast many powerful attackers one-on-one, such as Landorus-T
  
• Sludge Bomb is a good secondary STAB move that mainly hits what Giga Drain doesn't, particularly Flying-types. It also allows Venusaur to deal with Fairy-types such as Clefable
  
• Synthesis is sadly Venusaur's only reliable recovery move other than Rest -- it's necessary for healing Venusaur alongside Giga Drain (even more so with the lack of Leftovers), but keep in mind that it only heals Venusaur for 1/4 of its max HP in any weather condition other than sun. Its low PP may also be an issue. Still, it does restore 2/3 of Venusaur's max HP in sunlight and 1/2 of its max HP if no weather is present
• Leech Seed provides Venusaur (and potentially a teammate) with even more recovery, and opposing Grass-types other than Ferrothorn don't switch in on Venusaur due to Sludge Bomb. It's also a useful phazing tool, and it lets Venusaur defeat Chansey and Blissey
  
• Hidden Power Fire hits Steel-types (which would otherwise wall this set) such as Scizor, Ferrothorn, and Bisharp super effectively. It also hits Chesnaught, which can otherwise switch in and set up Spikes freely
  
• Sleep Powder can incapacitate a counter, but unfortunately it does not work against Ferrothorn, Mandibuzz, and Escavalier
  
• Knock Off is useful against Latios and Latias, as well as practically anything else due to its secondary effect
  
• Earthquake takes care of Heatran and other Steel-types
• Roar is another useful phazing tool, especially if Venusaur's team is weak to setup sweepers

Set Details
========

• 16 Speed EVs let Venusaur outspeed Adamant Azumarill and Mawile (92 Speed is also usable to outrun +Speed base 50s), the rest of the EVs make Venusaur as physically bulky as possible
• Use 20 Speed EVs with HP Fire to compensate for the forced 30 Speed IV
  
• Use a -Speed nature and move the 16 Speed EVs if using Knock Off or Earthquake
  
• A specially defensive spread can be used instead to more adequately deal with threats such as Keldeo and Manaphy
• Chlorophyll is preferred over Overgrow prior to Mega Evolving and can be useful against sun teams. Venusaur will be Mega Evolving before it has 1/3 of its HP left, meaning Overgrow will generally not be useful

Usage Tips
========

• Get Venusaur in early and Mega Evolve, it appreciates the added bulk and Thick Fat when switching in later
• Try to make sure Venusaur's HP is high when it switches out, as it needs to be healthy in order to switch in and check certain threats. The lack of Leftovers makes this even more important
  
• Synthesis can be used to scout the movesets of faster Pokemon that lack setup moves
• Venusaur will always be walled by something depending on what it runs in the fourth moveslot, but keep in mind that your opponent won't initially know what this is -- for example, try not to give away the fact that you have Hidden Power Fire or Earthquake until you're sure you can hit a Scizor or Heatran

Team Options
========

• Use it on stall, balance, bulky offense
• Heatran + Mega Venusaur makes a great defensive core
• Rotom-W deals with Flying-types nicely
• Aegislash is a good switch-in to Psychic-types such as Latios
• Quagsire is an excellent partner on stall teams

Chlorophyll
########
name: Chlorophyll
move 1: Leaf Storm / Solar Beam
move 2: Sludge Bomb
move 3: Hidden Power Fire / Earthquake
move 4: Sleep Powder
ability: Chlorophyll
item: Life Orb
evs: 24 HP / 252 SpA / 232 Spe
nature: Modest / Rash

Moves
========

• Leaf Storm is Venusaur's most powerful move and does not rely on weather, but it comes with an unfortunate Special Attack drop
  
• Solar Beam is only marginally weaker but allows rain/sand/hail inducers to switch in freely
• Sludge Bomb is a nice secondary STAB option for hitting Flying- and Dragon-types
  
• Hidden Power Fire hits Steel-types and is boosted to an acceptable 90 power in sunlight
  
• Earthquake is mainly for Heatran (which is also a huge threat to sun teams in general), but it hits many other Steel-types super effectively as well
• Sleep Powder incapacitates a counter but cannot hit Grass-types or Pokemon with Overcoat
  
• Growth gives Venusaur a +2 boost to both offensive stats if used in sunlight, but Venusaur will often be forced out after a KO by Flying-type priority, a Pokemon that walls it, or the sunlight expiring

Set Details
========

• The EVs allow Venusaur to hit as hard as possible on the special side and outrun Deoxys-S in sunlight
• The power boost from Life Orb is necessary due to Venusaur's average base 100 Special Attack

Usage Tips
========

• If you run Solar Beam, be wary of using it if the opponent has a Tyranitar, Politoed, Hippowdon, or Abomasnow
• Again, Flying-type priority is the bane of this set -- Venusaur will be forced out by Talonflame and Mega Pinsir
• Chlorophyll Venusaur is best used as a revenge killer and late-game cleaner due to the above as well as the fact that it does not hit particularly hard

Team Options
========

• Sun support (Ninetales, Mega Charizard Y) is mandatory
• Dugtrio is great on sun teams for its ability to trap and KO Heatran. Using Dugtrio can also eliminate the need for Venusaur to run Earthquake
• Choice Scarf Heatran is a good sun abuser and deals with Talonflame and Mega Pinsir

Other Options
########

• Offensive Mega set
  
• Power Whip/Petal Blizzard
• Stun Spore
• Protect
  
• Curse
• Swords Dance
• Petal Dance
  
• Grass Whistle

Checks & Counters
########

• Flying-types (e.g. Talonflame, Mega Pinsir, Staraptor, Skarmory, Crobat, Tornadus)
• Psychic-types (e.g. Latios, Alakazam, Deoxys-S, Gothitelle, Mew, Reuniclus)
• Steel-types (e.g. Ferrothorn, Scizor, Heatran, Aegislash, Mega Aggron, Escavalier)
• Kyurem-B
• Gengar
• Chansey and Blissey (if Venusaur lacks Leech Seed. Knock Off will also cripple both)
• Chesnaught with Spikes
  
• Certain setup sweepers (Volcarona, Dragonite)
  
• Weather conditions other than sun

 

[TheManlyLadybug]

To get you started on Checks & Counters:

• Alakazam
• Latios
• Talonflame + Mega Pinsir (Flying-type priority)
• Mega Gardevoir
• Changing the weather (for the Chlorophyll set)
• Staraptor
• Kyurem-B
• Ferrothorn
• Espeon

 

[LightningLuxray]

To get you started on Checks & Counters:

• Alakazam
• Latios
• Talonflame + Mega Pinsir (Flying-type priority)
• Mega Gardevoir
• Changing the weather (for the Chlorophyll set)
• Staraptor
• Kyurem-B
• Ferrothorn
• Espeon

I wouldn't say Ferrothorn... It loses to HP Fire variants and can't really do much except Stealth Rock/Spike. Also it should be Latios/Latias, though I guess that could probably be assumed.
Also I know this is WIP, but make sure Specially Defensive and Offensive Mega (Debatable, but IMO definitely deserving of a set) are getting sets!

 

[Muk]

I wouldn't say Ferrothorn... It loses to HP Fire variants and can't really do much except Stealth Rock/Spike. Also it should be Latios/Latias, though I guess that could probably be assumed.
Also I know this is WIP, but make sure Specially Defensive and Offensive Mega (Debatable, but IMO definitely deserving of a set) are getting sets!

Don't worry, I'll expand on everything in the Checks & Counters section when I write this up (for example, by pointing out that Ferrothorn can only switch in if Venusaur lacks HP Fire.)

A specially defensive set is mentioned in Set Details under the physically defensive one, but the offensive Mega set is staying in OO.

 

[Ash Borer]

change the header to "quality control" n_n

this is good regardless QC 1/4

 

[CyclicCompound]

We talked on IRC and made some minor changes (namely making Leech Seed the main slash in defensive, moving Roar into Moves for Defensive set). Nice job with the skeleton.

QC 2/4

 

[Alter]

We spoke on irc as well - only a small change or two on the defensive set which was otherwise great. The viability of chlorosaur was also brought up, but after discussing it with ash, y4 and valentine we've decided that it is good enough to deserve an analysis. You might also want to consider putting Sunny Day in the Moves section of the 2nd set so that it can support itself without relying on a sun setter. Nice work man, you can now write this up in paragraph form (and don't forget to use the 6th gen Checks and Counters format!).

QC APPROVED 3/4

edit: re: sunny day on the 2nd set... ash wasn't too much of a fan and argued against this sufficiently so you don't have to include that one if you don't think it's appropriate.

 

[Hootie]

I'd mention running 20 Speed EVs if you are running HP Fire

 

[Muk]

Going to write this today -- bumping this to point out that since the Ninetales analysis was rejected, I'll be removing the Chlorophyll set (if there are no objections).

 

[Colonel M]

No objections. Carry on soldier.

 

[Colonel M]

Looks good.

QC Approved 4/4

 

[PurpleCordial]

The whole point of ChloroSaur being removed from a main set was Ninetales got rejected so shouldn't Tales be not mentioned when you talk about the set in OO?

Also you misspelt Growth in OO but that'll probably be easier to change with other errors in a GP check

 

[Jukain]

idk why this was passed but we had agreed on a set...

move 1: Synthesis
move 2: Giga Drain
move 3: Sludge Bomb
move 4: Hidden Power Fire / Sleep Powder

hp fire coverage hits mawile, aegis, and steels in general, the coverage is ridiculously useful. sleep powder for...sleep is also obviously good. seeds is sorta a niche option that doesn't really help vs a lot of things that threaten you, unlike the coverage or threat of sleep.

offensive set should be added back. talked with cbb about it and tested it out myself, it just hits so hard (for example sludge does 80% to talon), forcing numerous typical switch-ins to take a lot of damage. it's very good if you don't particularly need the physical bulk, especially on bulky offense. synth + 3 atks is good.

 

[Muk]

@ the above post, we talked on IRC and I changed around the slashing for the last slot. Also, I'll be adding an offensive set, but I'd like other QC members to weigh in if possible since everyone seemed to have conflicting opinions on whether or not to add it in the first place.

 

[Enguarde]

Not QC so can take it with a grain of salt if you want.

Definitely add an offensive set, I've been using one for a long time on a hyper offensive team and fits quite nicely, both as a natural pivot and being able to take on particularly Azumarill, Keldeo, Mawile, Terrakion, Landorus-T, Clefable. The first 3 being huge pains for a lot of deoHazard teams, and of course it work on standard offensive and balanced too. For offensive i'd say the set Jukain posted above with enough speed creep for Rotom-W and sleep powder/synthesis slashed. At least 3 moves is needed for it to have prominent coverage.

Oh and sleep powder is great for sleeping Lati@s that switch in and want to defog aside from Mandibuzz of course, but thundurus can deal with that.

 

[Muk]

Not QC so can take it with a grain of salt if you want.

Definitely add an offensive set, I've been using one for a long time on a hyper offensive team and fits quite nicely, both as a natural pivot and being able to take on particularly Azumarill, Keldeo, Mawile, Terrakion, Landorus-T, Clefable. The first 3 being huge pains for a lot of deoHazard teams, and of course it work on standard offensive and balanced too. For offensive i'd say the set Jukain posted above with enough speed creep for Rotom-W and sleep powder/synthesis slashed. At least 3 moves is needed for it to have prominent coverage.

Oh and sleep powder is great for sleeping Lati@s that switch in and want to defog aside from Mandibuzz of course, but thundurus can deal with that.

Yeah, the set will look something like Synthesis + 3 attacks with Sleep Powder slashed in somewhere. I doubt I'll list enough speed to creep Rotom-W, though, since neither of the sets on the analysis list 0 speed.

 

[Unowninator]

Is Petal Dance really a good idea in Other Options? IMO, too many things have quadruple resistance, like Charizard (both X & Y), Talonflame, Heatran, Ferrothorn, Scizor, Crobat, Scolipede, Dragonite* (x8 resistance)... (I'll stop now).

 

[Muk]

Added the offensive set. I would appreciate any input on the slashing or EV spread, if necessary.

edit: never mind, talked to Jukain on IRC again and slightly changed the slashing, going to move this into GP now

 

[Aragorn the King]

Additionally, while Venusaur's weaknesses are few, they are exploitable—Flying-type moves and Psyshock are not uncommon.

Rest—

Random code, I think. Just the semicolon is needed

Other than that, this was very good Muk !

 

[Muk]

Random code, I think. Just the semicolon is needed

Other than that, this was very good Muk !

"—" is just " — ", I'm not exactly familiar with the coding or anything for analyses lol but from what I understand it's required to be like that

 

[Aragorn the King]

"—" is just " — ", I'm not exactly familiar with coding or anything for analyses lol but from what I understand it's required to be like that

Oh. That shows how much I know.
Other than that I'd give you the green light. This had no errors that I saw.

 

[Legitimate Username]

Ask and ye shall receive.
Additions
Removals
(Comments)

Changes

Overview
########

The introduction of a Mega Evolution has turned Venusaur into the a premier tank in XY OU, and for good reason. Impressive 80 / 123 / 120 defenses and the addition of the Thick Fat ability upon Mega Evolving allow it to switch in comfortably against practically any Water-, Electric-, or Fighting-type without fearing most of their coverage moves, and a convenient immunity to Toxic lets it take on even defensive threats. Moreover, as a Grass-type, Venusaur has several methods of restoring its HP that more than make up for the inability to hold Leftovers. It is no slouch offensively either, with a solid base 122 Special Attack and a good base 100 Attack after Mega Evolving as well as a wide movepool that grants it the capacity to threaten many of its common switch-ins. Unfortunately, Venusaur is not always able to take advantage of this; it often finds itself wishing for additional moveslots, as it will invariably find itself walled by something. Additionally, while Venusaur's weaknesses are few, they are exploitable—Flying-type moves and Psyshock are not uncommon. Ultimately, however, Venusaur's positive traits far outweigh its negative ones, and it is an appropriate fit on any team in need of what it has to offer.


Defensive
########
name: Defensive
move 1: Giga Drain
move 2: Sludge Bomb
move 3: Synthesis
move 4: Sleep Powder / Leech Seed / Hidden Power Fire
ability: Chlorophyll
item: Venusaurite
evs: 252 HP / 240 Def / 16 Spe
nature: Bold

Moves
========

Giga Drain is Venusaur's main STAB move and helps in keeping it healthy, as well as allowing it to outlast powerful attackers such as Landorus-T one-on-one. Sludge Bomb is a good secondary STAB move that is mainly used to hit Flying- and Dragon-types, and it also hits most Fairy-types super effectively. Sadly, Synthesis is sadly Venusaur's only reliable recovery move other than Rest—its low PP and ineffectiveness in most weather conditions may present an issue, but it is necessary for healing alongside Giga Drain.

Several moves are viable options in the last slot. Sleep Powder can incapacitate a counter, though unfortunately it will not work against Ferrothorn, Mandibuzz, or Escavalier. Leech Seed offers yet another method of recovery in addition to a decent phazing tool, and it also gives Venusaur the ability to defeat Chansey and Blissey. Hidden Power Fire hits Steel-types such as Scizor, Ferrothorn, and Mawile super effectively. It's Unlike Sludge Bomb, it's also capable of damaging Chesnaught, unlike Sludge Bomb. Knock Off is particularly useful against Latios and Gengar, but it cripples almost anything else due to its added effect of removing items. Earthquake smashes the Steel-types that don't mind Hidden Power Fire, namely Heatran. Lastly, Roar is a much more reliable phazing tool than Leech Seed against setup sweepers and Substitute users.

Set Details
========

16 Speed EVs are used in order to outrun Adamant Azumarill and Mawile, though 20 Speed EVs should be used with Hidden Power Fire to compensate for the imperfect Speed IV it forces. However, these EVs should be moved into Venusaur's defenses and a Relaxed nature should be used if Knock Off or Earthquake is chosen in the final slot. The rest of the EVs focus on making Venusaur as physically bulky as possible, but a specially defensive spread is also a viable option in order to let Venusaur deal with Pokemon such as Manaphy and Raikou more effectively. Chlorophyll is more useful than Overgrow prior to Mega Evolving, as it occasionally allows Venusaur to pick up a temporary Speed boost against teams using that use Mega Charizard Y.

Usage Tips
========

It is imperative to get Venusaur in and let it Mega Evolve early, as it appreciates the added bulk and Thick Fat when switching in later. Also, try to make sure Venusaur's HP is high whenever it switches back out, since it needs to be healthy in order to switch in and check powerful threats such as Choice Specs Keldeo. Synthesis can be used to scout the movesets of faster Pokemon, but be wary of those with access to setup moves. Finally, keep in mind that although Venusaur will end up being walled by something depending on what it runs in the last slot, your opponent won't initially know what can actually wall Venusaur. For example, if you're using Earthquake, try not to reveal it until you're sure you can hit your opponent's Heatran.

Team Options
========

Venusaur makes itself at home on teams utilizing any of several different playstyles, such as balance, stall, and bulky offense. Therefore, it can be used with essentially any Pokemon that synergizes well with it defensively. Heatran forms an outstanding defensive core with Venusaur, and as it is capable of taking Flying- and Psychic-type attacks with ease. Rotom-W works similarly, serving as a hard check to almost any user of Flying-type attacks. Aegislash is also a great switch-in to many Flying- and Psychic-types, such as Latios. Excadrill and Slowbro are good partners for Venusaur by virtue of their typing and abilities, as well as the former's immediate offensive presence. Skarmory and Bisharp pair decently with Venusaur as well, and as Venusaur can cover their major weaknesses. Finally, Clefable and Quagsire are particularly effective alongside Venusaur on stall teams for their ability to deal with the setup sweepers that Venusaur struggles against.


Offensive
########
name: Offensive
move 1: Giga Drain
move 2: Sludge Bomb
move 3: Hidden Power Fire
move 4: Synthesis / Sleep Powder
ability: Chlorophyll
item: Venusaurite
evs: 232 HP / 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 20 Spe
nature: Modest

Moves
========

With maximum Special Attack investment, Giga Drain deals a solid amount of damage while simultaneously restoring a good chunk of Venusaur's health. Sludge Bomb hits the Flying- and Dragon-types that like often try ("switch me in, I like to take damage") to switch in on Giga Drain for a surprisingly large amount of damage, easily 2HKOing Mega Pinsir and even 2HKOing Latios and Kyurem-B after Stealth Rock. Hidden Power Fire provides coverage against Steel-types and Chesnaught and will 2HKO most of them, including Ferrothorn and Bisharp. Synthesis provides valuable healing and is generally reliable on an offensive set, as Venusaur is capable of threatening every auto-inducer of rain, sand, or hail with the appropriate move. However, Sleep Powder is equally useful for its ability to disable a counter.

Three other moves are usable on this set. Earthquake is an option solely for Heatran, which is cleanly 2HKOed even if Venusaur uses a Modest nature. Knock Off is a decent option in the last slot against Gengar, Latias, and Chansey, and it allows Venusaur to pose a massive annoyance to stall teams. Leaf Storm is usable over Giga Drain for its significantly greater power, but it should only be used with alongside Synthesis.

Set Details
========

A Modest nature and maximum Special Attack investment causes allow Venusaur's attacks to hit as hard as possible while 20 Speed EVs allow it to outpace Adamant Azumarill and Mawile, factoring in the required IVs for Hidden Power Fire. The remaining EVs are placed in into HP to increase Venusaur's overall bulk, though 4 EVs are moved into Special Defense in order to minimize residual damage. An alternate EV spread of 160 HP / 252 SpA / 96 Spe is also an option if Venusaur needs to outspeed Jolly Azumarill and Mawile.

If Knock Off is chosen in the final slot, a Quiet nature should be used and the Speed and Special Defense EVs should be moved into Attack. This grants Venusaur a 50% chance to OHKO 28 HP Gengar after Stealth Rock. Chlorophyll is the superior ability prior to Mega Evolving, as it can occasionally give Venusaur the ability to outspeed and KO a weakened Mega Charizard Y or take advantage of the sun it brings in general.

Usage Tips
========

As with the previous set, getting Venusaur in early so it can Mega Evolve is extremely valuable when attempting to switch it in later thanks to the addition of Thick Fat and the increase in its defensive stats. Again, if you opt for Earthquake in the last slot, try to hide the move until you're sure you can hit your opponent's Heatran with it. Additionally In addition, capitalize on the power of Sludge Bomb in particular; Venusaur can actually take out its common checks such as Latios if it hits them on the switch, and most of these Pokemon cannot OHKO Venusaur in return.

Team Options
========

This variant of Venusaur is particularly useful on bulky offensive teams. Heatran, Rotom-W, and Aegislash all have excellent synergy with Venusaur and perform well under this playstyle, making them ideal teammates. Excadrill is another good example of this, capable of taking Flying- and Psychic-type attacks while Venusaur easily defeats the Water- and Fighting-types it struggles against. Lastly, Bisharp and Tyranitar are great teammates for Venusaur, though Venusaur should not run Synthesis if used alongside the latter.


Other Options
########

Venusaur has no shortage of other options. First off, a Chlorophyll set without Venusaurite is usable with sun support. Power Whip is a physical Grass-type STAB option, but it leaves Venusaur prone to burns, and Venusaur appreciates the recovery that Giga Drain affords. Growth, Swords Dance, and Curse are all viable boosting moves that Venusaur can use. Stun Spore cripples the many fast Pokemon that like to switch in against Venusaur, but Sleep Powder is generally better and Venusaur will rarely find room for both. Protect can be used alongside Leech Seed, though but it often gives the opponent a free turn to switch out or set up. Finally, Grass Whistle is capable of putting Grass-types and Pokemon with Overcoat to sleep, but its low accuracy means that it is generally inferior to Sleep Powder.

Checks & Counters
########

**Flying-types**: These include Talonflame, Mega Pinsir, Staraptor, Skarmory, Crobat, and Tornadus, all of which can switch in on Giga Drain and inflict massive damage on Venusaur with a super effective STAB move. Most However, most of them need to watch out for Sleep Powder and Sludge Bomb, however.

**Psychic-types**: Psychic-types such as Latios, Latias, Alakazam, Deoxys-S, Gothitelle, and Reuniclus can easily take care of Venusaur with their STAB moves, only fearing Sleep Powder and the odd Knock Off. A However, a Sludge Bomb from the offensive set will deal significant damage to all of them, however.

**Steel-types**: If Venusaur lacks the appropriate coverage move, Steel-types such as Ferrothorn, Scizor, Heatran, Aegislash, Mega Aggron, and Escavalier can switch in with impunity and either set up or attack. However, none of them bar Ferrothorn handle Leech Seed particularly well, and only Ferrothorn and Escavalier can switch in on Sleep Powder.

**Kyurem-B**: Teravolt allows Kyurem-B to bypass Thick Fat and KO Venusaur with Ice Beam. It can switch in on Giga Drain easily, and it often carries Substitute to block status and Leech Seed.

**Gengar**: Gengar resists both of Venusaur's STAB moves and is immune to Earthquake. It can also run Taunt or Substitute to deal with status and Leech Seed, meaning that it only fears Knock Off.

**Chesnaught**: Thanks to Bulletproof and its Grass typing, Chesnaught can switch in on any of Venusaur's attacks other than Hidden Power Fire and proceed to set up Spikes.

**Chansey and Blissey**: Venusaur is walled by Chansey and Blissey if it lacks Leech Seed. However, Knock Off will cripple them both, particularly Chansey.

**Setup Sweepers**: Bulky setup sweepers such as Volcarona and Dragonite don't mind Venusaur's attacks, especially if they have ways to deal of dealing with with Sleep Powder.

**Weather**: Weather conditions other than sun will reduce the amount of HP restored by Synthesis to a mere 25% of Venusaur's maximum HP.

Copypaste

Overview
########

The introduction of a Mega Evolution has turned Venusaur into a premier tank in XY OU, and for good reason. Impressive 80 / 123 / 120 defenses and the addition of the Thick Fat ability upon Mega Evolving allow it to switch in comfortably against practically any Water-, Electric-, or Fighting-type without fearing most of their coverage moves, and a convenient immunity to Toxic lets it take on even defensive threats. Moreover, as a Grass-type, Venusaur has several methods of restoring its HP that more than make up for the inability to hold Leftovers. It is no slouch offensively either, with a solid base 122 Special Attack and a good base 100 Attack after Mega Evolving as well as a wide movepool that grants it the capacity to threaten many of its common switch-ins. Unfortunately, Venusaur is not always able to take advantage of this; it often finds itself wishing for additional moveslots, as it will invariably find itself walled by something. Additionally, while Venusaur's weaknesses are few, they are exploitable—Flying-type moves and Psyshock are not uncommon. Ultimately, however, Venusaur's positive traits far outweigh its negative ones, and it is an appropriate fit on any team in need of what it has to offer.


Defensive
########
name: Defensive
move 1: Giga Drain
move 2: Sludge Bomb
move 3: Synthesis
move 4: Sleep Powder / Leech Seed / Hidden Power Fire
ability: Chlorophyll
item: Venusaurite
evs: 252 HP / 240 Def / 16 Spe
nature: Bold

Moves
========

Giga Drain is Venusaur's main STAB move and helps in keeping it healthy, as well as allowing it to outlast powerful attackers such as Landorus-T one-on-one. Sludge Bomb is a good secondary STAB move that is mainly used to hit Flying- and Dragon-types, and it also hits most Fairy-types super effectively. Sadly, Synthesis is Venusaur's only reliable recovery move other than Rest—its low PP and ineffectiveness in most weather conditions may present an issue, but it is necessary for healing alongside Giga Drain.

Several moves are viable options in the last slot. Sleep Powder can incapacitate a counter, though unfortunately it will not work against Ferrothorn, Mandibuzz, or Escavalier. Leech Seed offers yet another method of recovery in addition to a decent phazing tool, and it also gives Venusaur the ability to defeat Chansey and Blissey. Hidden Power Fire hits Steel-types such as Scizor, Ferrothorn, and Mawile super effectively. Unlike Sludge Bomb, it's also capable of damaging Chesnaught. Knock Off is particularly useful against Latios and Gengar, but it cripples almost anything else due to its added effect of removing items. Earthquake smashes the Steel-types that don't mind Hidden Power Fire, namely Heatran. Lastly, Roar is a much more reliable phazing tool than Leech Seed against setup sweepers and Substitute users.

Set Details
========

16 Speed EVs are used in order to outrun Adamant Azumarill and Mawile, though 20 Speed EVs should be used with Hidden Power Fire to compensate for the imperfect Speed IV it forces. However, these EVs should be moved into Venusaur's defenses and a Relaxed nature should be used if Knock Off or Earthquake is chosen in the final slot. The rest of the EVs focus on making Venusaur as physically bulky as possible, but a specially defensive spread is also a viable option in order to let Venusaur deal with Pokemon such as Manaphy and Raikou more effectively. Chlorophyll is more useful than Overgrow prior to Mega Evolving, as it occasionally allows Venusaur to pick up a temporary Speed boost against teams that use Mega Charizard Y.

Usage Tips
========

It is imperative to get Venusaur in and let it Mega Evolve early, as it appreciates the added bulk and Thick Fat when switching in later. Also, try to make sure Venusaur's HP is high whenever it switches back out, since it needs to be healthy in order to switch in and check powerful threats such as Choice Specs Keldeo. Synthesis can be used to scout the movesets of faster Pokemon, but be wary of those with access to setup moves. Finally, keep in mind that although Venusaur will end up being walled by something depending on what it runs in the last slot, your opponent won't initially know what can actually wall Venusaur. For example, if you're using Earthquake, try not to reveal it until you're sure you can hit your opponent's Heatran.

Team Options
========

Venusaur makes itself at home on teams utilizing any of several different playstyles, such as balance, stall, and bulky offense. Therefore, it can be used with essentially any Pokemon that synergizes well with it defensively. Heatran forms an outstanding defensive core with Venusaur, as it is capable of taking Flying- and Psychic-type attacks with ease. Rotom-W works similarly, serving as a hard check to almost any user of Flying-type attacks. Aegislash is also a great switch-in to many Flying- and Psychic-types, such as Latios. Excadrill and Slowbro are good partners for Venusaur by virtue of their typing and abilities, as well as the former's immediate offensive presence. Skarmory and Bisharp pair decently with Venusaur as well, as Venusaur can cover their major weaknesses. Finally, Clefable and Quagsire are particularly effective alongside Venusaur on stall teams for their ability to deal with the setup sweepers that Venusaur struggles against.


Offensive
########
name: Offensive
move 1: Giga Drain
move 2: Sludge Bomb
move 3: Hidden Power Fire
move 4: Synthesis / Sleep Powder
ability: Chlorophyll
item: Venusaurite
evs: 232 HP / 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 20 Spe
nature: Modest

Moves
========

With maximum Special Attack investment, Giga Drain deals a solid amount of damage while simultaneously restoring a good chunk of Venusaur's health. Sludge Bomb hits the Flying- and Dragon-types that often try to switch in on Giga Drain for a surprisingly large amount of damage, easily 2HKOing Mega Pinsir and even 2HKOing Latios and Kyurem-B after Stealth Rock. Hidden Power Fire provides coverage against Steel-types and Chesnaught and will 2HKO most of them, including Ferrothorn and Bisharp. Synthesis provides valuable healing and is generally reliable on an offensive set, as Venusaur is capable of threatening every auto-inducer of rain, sand, or hail with the appropriate move. However, Sleep Powder is equally useful for its ability to disable a counter.

Three other moves are usable on this set. Earthquake is an option solely for Heatran, which is cleanly 2HKOed even if Venusaur uses a Modest nature. Knock Off is a decent option in the last slot against Gengar, Latias, and Chansey, and it allows Venusaur to pose a massive annoyance to stall teams. Leaf Storm is usable over Giga Drain for its significantly greater power, but it should only be used alongside Synthesis.

Set Details
========

A Modest nature and maximum Special Attack investment allow Venusaur's attacks to hit as hard as possible while 20 Speed EVs allow it to outpace Adamant Azumarill and Mawile, factoring in the required IVs for Hidden Power Fire. The remaining EVs are placed into HP to increase Venusaur's overall bulk, though 4 EVs are moved into Special Defense in order to minimize residual damage. An alternate EV spread of 160 HP / 252 SpA / 96 Spe is also an option if Venusaur needs to outspeed Jolly Azumarill and Mawile.

If Knock Off is chosen in the final slot, a Quiet nature should be used and the Speed and Special Defense EVs should be moved into Attack. This grants Venusaur a 50% chance to OHKO 28 HP Gengar after Stealth Rock. Chlorophyll is the superior ability prior to Mega Evolving, as it can occasionally give Venusaur the ability to outspeed and KO a weakened Mega Charizard Y or take advantage of the sun it brings in general.

Usage Tips
========

As with the previous set, getting Venusaur in early so it can Mega Evolve is extremely valuable when attempting to switch it in later thanks to the addition of Thick Fat and the increase in its defensive stats. Again, if you opt for Earthquake in the last slot, try to hide the move until you're sure you can hit your opponent's Heatran with it. In addition, capitalize on the power of Sludge Bomb in particular; Venusaur can actually take out its common checks such as Latios if it hits them on the switch, and most of these Pokemon cannot OHKO Venusaur in return.

Team Options
========

This variant of Venusaur is particularly useful on bulky offensive teams. Heatran, Rotom-W, and Aegislash all have excellent synergy with Venusaur and perform well under this playstyle, making them ideal teammates. Excadrill is another good example of this, capable of taking Flying- and Psychic-type attacks while Venusaur easily defeats the Water- and Fighting-types it struggles against. Lastly, Bisharp and Tyranitar are great teammates for Venusaur, though Venusaur should not run Synthesis if used alongside the latter.


Other Options
########

Venusaur has no shortage of other options. First off, a Chlorophyll set without Venusaurite is usable with sun support. Power Whip is a physical Grass-type STAB option, but it leaves Venusaur prone to burns, and Venusaur appreciates the recovery that Giga Drain affords. Growth, Swords Dance, and Curse are all viable boosting moves that Venusaur can use. Stun Spore cripples the many fast Pokemon that like to switch in against Venusaur, but Sleep Powder is generally better and Venusaur will rarely find room for both. Protect can be used alongside Leech Seed, but it often gives the opponent a free turn to switch out or set up. Finally, Grass Whistle is capable of putting Grass-types and Pokemon with Overcoat to sleep, but its low accuracy means that it is generally inferior to Sleep Powder.

Checks & Counters
########

**Flying-types**: These include Talonflame, Mega Pinsir, Staraptor, Skarmory, Crobat, and Tornadus, all of which can switch in on Giga Drain and inflict massive damage on Venusaur with a super effective STAB move. However, most of them need to watch out for Sleep Powder and Sludge Bomb.

**Psychic-types**: Psychic-types such as Latios, Latias, Alakazam, Deoxys-S, Gothitelle, and Reuniclus can easily take care of Venusaur with their STAB moves, only fearing Sleep Powder and the odd Knock Off. However, a Sludge Bomb from the offensive set will deal significant damage to all of them.

**Steel-types**: If Venusaur lacks the appropriate coverage move, Steel-types such as Ferrothorn, Scizor, Heatran, Aegislash, Mega Aggron, and Escavalier can switch in with impunity and either set up or attack. However, none of them bar Ferrothorn handle Leech Seed particularly well, and only Ferrothorn and Escavalier can switch in on Sleep Powder.

**Kyurem-B**: Teravolt allows Kyurem-B to bypass Thick Fat and KO Venusaur with Ice Beam. It can switch in on Giga Drain easily, and it often carries Substitute to block status and Leech Seed.

**Gengar**: Gengar resists both of Venusaur's STAB moves and is immune to Earthquake. It can also run Taunt or Substitute to deal with status and Leech Seed, meaning that it only fears Knock Off.

**Chesnaught**: Thanks to Bulletproof and its Grass typing, Chesnaught can switch in on any of Venusaur's attacks other than Hidden Power Fire and proceed to set up Spikes.

**Chansey and Blissey**: Venusaur is walled by Chansey and Blissey if it lacks Leech Seed. However, Knock Off will cripple them both, particularly Chansey.

**Setup Sweepers**: Bulky setup sweepers such as Volcarona and Dragonite don't mind Venusaur's attacks, especially if they have ways of dealing with with Sleep Powder.

**Weather**: Weather conditions other than sun will reduce the amount of HP restored by Synthesis to a mere 25% of Venusaur's maximum HP.

GP approved 1/2

 

[Muk]

Thanks Legitimate Username, implemented (except for the very first line which I mentioned to you lol)

 

[Calm Pokemaster]

Deletions
Additions / Corrections
Comments

Hide

Overview
########

The introduction of a Mega Evolution has turned Venusaur into the premier tank in XY OU, and for good reason. Impressive 80 / 123 / 120 defenses and the addition of the Thick Fat ability upon Mega Evolving allow it to switch in comfortably against practically any Water-, Electric-, or Fighting-type without fearing most of their coverage moves, and a convenient immunity to Toxic lets it take on even defensive threats. Moreover, as a Grass-type, Venusaur has several methods of restoring its HP that more than make up for the inability to hold Leftovers. It is no slouch offensively either, with a solid base 122 Special Attack and a good base 100 Attack after Mega Evolving as well as a wide movepool that grants it the capacity ability (unless I'm mistaken, we rarely use 'capacity' in this context in analyses, so I went for the more direct 'ability') to threaten many of its common switch-ins. Unfortunately, Venusaur is not always able to take advantage of this; it often finds itself wishing for additional moveslots, as it will invariably find itself walled by something. Additionally, while Venusaur's weaknesses are few, they are exploitable—Flying-type moves and Psyshock are not uncommon. Ultimately, however, Venusaur's positive traits far outweigh its negative ones, and it is an appropriate fit on any team in need of what it has to offer.


Defensive
########
name: Defensive
move 1: Giga Drain
move 2: Sludge Bomb
move 3: Synthesis
move 4: Sleep Powder / Leech Seed / Hidden Power Fire
ability: Chlorophyll
item: Venusaurite
evs: 252 HP / 240 Def / 16 Spe
nature: Bold

Moves
========

Giga Drain is Venusaur's main STAB move and helps in keeping it healthy, as well as allowing it to outlast powerful attackers such as Landorus-T one-on-one. Sludge Bomb is a good secondary STAB move that is mainly used to hit Flying- and Dragon-types, and it also hits most Fairy-types super effectively. Sadly, Synthesis is Venusaur's only reliable recovery move other than Rest—its low PP and ineffectiveness in most weather conditions may present an issue, but it is necessary for healing alongside Giga Drain.

Several moves are viable options in the last slot. Sleep Powder can incapacitate a counter, though unfortunately it will not work against Ferrothorn, Mandibuzz, or Escavalier. Leech Seed offers yet another method of recovery in addition to a decent phazing tool, and it also gives Venusaur the ability to defeat Chansey and Blissey. Hidden Power Fire hits Steel-types such as Scizor, Ferrothorn, and Mawile super effectively. Unlike Sludge Bomb, it's also capable of damaging Chesnaught. Knock Off is particularly useful against Latios and Gengar, but it cripples almost anything else due to its added effect of removing items. Earthquake smashes the Steel-types that don't mind Hidden Power Fire, namely Heatran. Lastly, Roar is a much more reliable phazing tool than Leech Seed against setup sweepers and Substitute users.

Set Details
========

16 Speed EVs are used in order to outrun Adamant Azumarill and Mawile, though 20 Speed EVs should be used with Hidden Power Fire to compensate for the imperfect Speed IV it forces Venusaur to use. However, these EVs should be moved into Venusaur's defenses and a Relaxed nature should be used if Knock Off or Earthquake is chosen in the final slot. The rest of the EVs focus on making Venusaur as physically bulky as possible, but a specially defensive spread is also a viable option in order to let Venusaur it deal with Pokemon such as Manaphy and Raikou more effectively. Chlorophyll is more useful than Overgrow prior to Mega Evolving, as it occasionally allows Venusaur to pick up a temporary Speed boost against teams that use Mega Charizard Y.

Usage Tips
========

It is imperative to get Venusaur in and let it Mega Evolve early, as it appreciates the added bulk and Thick Fat when switching in later. Also, try to make sure Venusaur's HP is high whenever it switches back out, since it needs to be healthy in order to switch in and check powerful threats such as Choice Specs Keldeo. Synthesis can be used to scout the movesets of faster Pokemon, but be wary of those with access to setup moves. Finally, keep in mind that although Venusaur will end up being walled by something depending on what it runs in the last slot, your opponent won't initially know what can actually wall Venusaur. For example, if you're using Earthquake, try not to reveal it until you're sure you can hit your opponent's Heatran.

Team Options
========

Venusaur makes itself at home on teams utilizing any of several different playstyles, such as balance, stall, and bulky offense. Therefore, it can be used with essentially any Pokemon that synergizes well with it defensively. Heatran forms an outstanding defensive core with Venusaur, as it is capable of taking Flying- and Psychic-type attacks with ease. Rotom-W works similarly, serving as a hard check to almost any user of Flying-type attacks. Aegislash is also a great switch-in to many Flying- and Psychic-types, such as Latios. Excadrill and Slowbro are good partners for Venusaur by virtue of their typing and abilities, as well as the former's immediate offensive presence. Skarmory and Bisharp pair decently with Venusaur as well, as Venusaur can cover their major weaknesses. Finally, Clefable and Quagsire are particularly effective alongside Venusaur on stall teams for their ability to deal with the setup sweepers that Venusaur struggles against.


Offensive
########
name: Offensive
move 1: Giga Drain
move 2: Sludge Bomb
move 3: Hidden Power Fire
move 4: Synthesis / Sleep Powder
ability: Chlorophyll
item: Venusaurite
evs: 232 HP / 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 20 Spe
nature: Modest

Moves
========

With maximum Special Attack investment, Giga Drain deals a solid amount of damage while simultaneously restoring a good chunk of Venusaur's health. Sludge Bomb hits the Flying- and Dragon-types that often try to switch in on Giga Drain for a surprisingly large amount of damage, easily 2HKOing Mega Pinsir and even 2HKOing Latios and Kyurem-B after Stealth Rock. Hidden Power Fire provides coverage against Steel-types and Chesnaught and will 2HKO most of them, including Ferrothorn and Bisharp. Synthesis provides valuable healing and is generally reliable on an offensive set, as Venusaur is capable of threatening every auto-inducer of rain, sand, or hail with the appropriate move. However, Sleep Powder is equally useful for its ability to disable a counter.

Three other moves are usable on this set. Earthquake is an option solely for Heatran, which is cleanly 2HKOed even if Venusaur uses a Modest nature. Knock Off is a decent option in the last slot against Gengar, Latias, and Chansey, and it allows Venusaur to pose a massive annoyance to stall teams. Leaf Storm is usable over Giga Drain for its significantly greater power, but it should only be used alongside Synthesis.

Set Details
========

A Modest nature and maximum Special Attack investment allow Venusaur's attacks to hit as hard as possible, (add comma) while 20 Speed EVs allow it to outpace Adamant Azumarill and Mawile, factoring in the required IVs for Hidden Power Fire. The remaining EVs are placed in HP to increase Venusaur's overall bulk, though 4 EVs are moved into Special Defense in order to minimize residual damage. An alternative EV spread of 160 HP / 252 SpA / 96 Spe is also an option if Venusaur needs to outspeed Jolly Azumarill and Mawile.

If Knock Off is chosen in the final slot, a Quiet nature should be used and the Speed and Special Defense EVs should be moved into Attack. This grants Venusaur a 50% chance to OHKO 28 HP Gengar after Stealth Rock. Chlorophyll is the superior ability prior to Mega Evolving, as it can occasionally give Venusaur the ability to outspeed and KO a weakened Mega Charizard Y or take advantage of the sun it brings in general.

Usage Tips
========

As with the previous set, getting Venusaur in early so it can Mega Evolve is extremely valuable when attempting to switch it in later thanks to the addition of Thick Fat and the increase in its defensive stats. Again, if you opt for Earthquake in the last slot, try to hide the move until you're sure you can hit your opponent's Heatran with it. In addition, capitalize on the power of Sludge Bomb in particular; Venusaur can actually take out its common checks such as Latios if it hits them on the switch, and most of these Pokemon cannot OHKO Venusaur in return.

Team Options
========

This variant of Venusaur is particularly useful on bulky offensive teams. Heatran, Rotom-W, and Aegislash all have excellent synergy with Venusaur and perform well under this playstyle, making them ideal teammates. Excadrill is another good example of this, capable of taking Flying- and Psychic-type attacks while Venusaur easily defeats the Water- and Fighting-types it struggles against. Lastly, Bisharp and Tyranitar are great teammates for Venusaur, though Venusaur should not run Synthesis if used alongside the latter.


Other Options
########

Venusaur has no shortage of other options. First off, a Chlorophyll set without Venusaurite is usable with sun support. Power Whip is a physical Grass-type STAB option, but it leaves Venusaur prone to burns, and Venusaur appreciates the recovery that Giga Drain affords. Growth, Swords Dance, and Curse are all viable boosting moves that Venusaur can use. Stun Spore cripples the many fast Pokemon that like to switch in against Venusaur, but Sleep Powder is generally better, (add comma) and Venusaur will rarely find room for both. Protect can be used alongside Leech Seed, but it often gives the opponent a free turn to switch out or set up. Finally, Grass Whistle is capable of putting Grass-types and Pokemon with Overcoat to sleep, but its low accuracy means that is generally inferior to Sleep Powder.

Checks & Counters
########

**Flying-types**: These include Talonflame, Mega Pinsir, Staraptor, Skarmory, Crobat, and Tornadus, all of which can switch in on Giga Drain and inflict massive damage on Venusaur with a super effective STAB move. However, most of them need to watch out for Sleep Powder and Sludge Bomb.

**Psychic-types**: Psychic-types such as Latios, Latias, Alakazam, Deoxys-S, Gothitelle, and Reuniclus easily take care of Venusaur with their STAB moves, only fearing Sleep Powder and the odd Knock Off. However, a Sludge Bomb from the offensive set will deal significant damage to all of them.

**Steel-types**: If Venusaur lacks the appropriate coverage move, Steel-types such as Ferrothorn, Scizor, Heatran, Aegislash, Mega Aggron, and Escavalier can switch in with impunity and either set up or attack. However, none of them bar Ferrothorn handle Leech Seed particularly well, and only Ferrothorn and Escavalier can switch in on Sleep Powder.

**Kyurem-B**: Teravolt allows Kyurem-B to bypass Thick Fat and KO Venusaur with Ice Beam. It can switch in on Giga Drain easily, and it often carries Substitute to block status and Leech Seed.

**Gengar**: Gengar resists both of Venusaur's STAB moves and is immune to Earthquake. It can also run Taunt or Substitute to deal with status and Leech Seed, meaning that it only fears Knock Off.

**Chesnaught**: Thanks to Bulletproof and its Grass typing, Chesnaught can switch in on any of Venusaur's attacks other than Hidden Power Fire and proceed to set up Spikes.

**Chansey and Blissey**: Venusaur is walled by Chansey and Blissey if it lacks Leech Seed. However, Knock Off will cripple them both, particularly Chansey.

**Setup Sweepers**: Bulky setup sweepers such as Volcarona and Dragonite don't mind Venusaur's attacks, especially if they have ways of dealing with Sleep Powder.

**Weather**: Weather conditions other than sun will reduce the amount of HP restored by Synthesis to a mere 25% of Venusaur's maximum HP.

GP 2 / 2