Virizion (GP 2/2)

Solace · Jan 30, 2012

[Overview]

Virizion is an excellent Pokemon in the VGC 2012 metagame. It has great STAB coverage against many common Pokemon, such as Tyranitar and Politoed. With base 108 Speed, Virizion outspeeds a large portion of the metagame, which makes it an excellent choice to attack quickly with great power. High Special Defense and decent HP stats, coupled with key resistance to Water-, Rock-, Ground-, and Electric-type moves—which are often seen in the form of spread moves—in addition to resistances to Grass- and Dark-type moves, enable Virizion to be both an effective wall and a supporting Pokemon as well. However, Virizion is limited by average offensive stats, a shallow movepool, low physical bulk, and weaknesses to Fire- and Ice-type moves. Overall, Virizion is an incredibly versatile Pokemon that can fit many roles on your team effectively if used wisely.

[SET]
name: Physical Attacker
move 1: Leaf Blade
move 2: Sacred Sword / Close Combat
move 3: Stone Edge / X-Scissor
move 4: Protect
item: Life Orb
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

Leaf Blade is Virizion's only physical Grass-type attack, and allows it to take down many common members of rain teams, such as Politoed, Jellicent, and Gastrodon, as well as other Water-types, such as Slowbro, Suicune, and Starmie. Leaf Blade also hits many Pokemon commonly found on sand teams, such as Hippowdon, Krookodile, Tyranitar, and Rhyperior, very hard. Sacred Sword and Close Combat provide Virizion with a strong Fighting-type STAB. Close Combat hits much harder and can gain KOs that Sacred Sword would miss out on, but the Defense and Special Defense drops leave Virizion extremely vulnerable to most attacks. Thanks to its Fighting-type coverage, Virizion is able to hit Excadrill and Heatran for super effective damage, and also dent other common Pokemon, such as Metagross. Although its accuracy is shaky at best, Stone Edge provides coverage against Flying-type Pokemon, such as Togekiss, Tornadus, Thundurus, and Zapdos. If Stone Edge doesn't cut it for you, X-Scissor is another option that allows Virizion to hit Grass- and Psychic-types, such as Ludicolo, Latios, Latias, and Cresselia, for super effective damage. Protect is a vital move in VGC that enables Virizion to avoid a turn of damage while its partner takes out an imminent threat.

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

Life Orb is the preferred item for this set thanks to the 30% boost it gives to all of Virizion's attacks; however, if you find the 10% recoil unappealing, Grass Gem or Fighting Gem are both viable options to boost one of Virizion's STAB moves for a one-time hit. Expert Belt is another option that boosts Virizion's super effective hits without any drawbacks. Maximum Speed investment and a Jolly nature enable Virizion to Speed tie with other base 108 Speed Pokemon, such as Infernape and Terrakion. Virizion can also run Safeguard or Helping Hand in place of X-Scissor, Stone Edge, or Protect; however, losing the coverage or protection granted by those moves can be dangerous and might not be worth your while. Virizion can also run Hidden Power Ice with a Naive nature to hit Landorus, Garchomp, and other Dragon- and Flying-types super effectively.

Fire-types are good partners thanks to their ability to take down Ice-type Pokemon that threaten Virizion. Heatran and Chandelure make for exceptional partners to Virizion due to their Flash Fire ability, which gives them immunity to Fire-type moves, as well as their resistance to Ice-type moves. Virizion also appreciates Fake Out support, as it allows Virizion to take out threats while they are incapable of attacking; Hitmontop therefore makes for an excellent partner thanks to its access to both Fake Out and Wide Guard. Wide Guard can block the Heat Waves and Blizzards that plague Virizion, and Fake Out can give it a free turn in which to attack. Hitmontop also has Intimidate, which makes up for Virizion's lack of physical bulk. Furthermore, Hitmontop's access to Sucker Punch allows it to take out Chandelure and Latios, who pose major threats to Virizion. Follow Me and Rage Powder users can make for good partners to Virizion as well; however, Rage Powder users tend to be Bug-type Pokemon, who might be weak to the Flying-type moves that they are redirecting.

[SET]
name: Special Attacker
move 1: Giga Drain
move 2: Focus Blast
move 3: Hidden Power Ice
move 4: Protect
item: Life Orb
nature: Timid
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

With a Special Attack stat equal to its decent Attack stat, Virizion can also run a set that capitalizes on its specially based movepool. Giga Drain provides Virizion with a strong Grass-type STAB in addition to recovery, which is something the physical set lacks. Focus Blast is Virizion's only special Fighting-type move, and its low accuracy is a major detriment to the set. However, thanks to its 120 Base Power, Focus Blast hits very hard and makes up for Virizion's merely decent offensive stat. Hidden Power Ice provides coverage against Salamence, Garchomp, and Landorus, all of which Virizion outspeeds. Protect allows Virizion to scout for moves and protect itself from damage for a turn.

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

Once again, Life Orb is the recommended item for Virizion. The attack boost is appreciated because Virizion's Speed stat requires it to use a Speed-boosting nature in order to keep up with common metagame threats such as Infernape, Terrakion, Garchomp, and Landorus. If the 10% recoil is unappealing, Expert Belt is once again a viable item to boost Virizion's super effective attacks by 20% at no cost. Grass Gem and Fighting Gem are also options, but their one-time-use might make them unappealing. The EVs maximize Virizion's Special Attack and Speed, which allows it to hit hard while keeping pace with speedy metagame threats. If you want Virizion to be slightly bulkier, a spread of 28 HP / 252 SpA / 228 Spe is viable; however, the reduced Speed only allows Virizion to outspeed base 105 Speed Pokemon, such as 

Virizion will appreciate partners that can break through special walls, such as Cresselia and Blissey, whom it fares poorly against; the likes of Tyranitar and Hitmontop fill this role excellently. Tyranitar resists Flying-, Fire-, and Psychic-type moves, and can hit those three types for super effective damage with its STAB moves, while Hitmontop has access to Fake Out, Sucker Punch, Wide Guard, and Close Combat, which either dent special walls or prevent spread moves and normal attacks from harming Virizion. Virizion is very susceptible to weather when running this particular set, and particularly dislikes the Special Defense boost Tyranitar gains from sandstorm. Therefore, physical attackers who can OHKO Tyranitar, such as Hitmontop and other Fighting-types, make for very useful teammates.

[SET]
name: Dedicated Support
move 1: Reflect
move 2: Light Screen
move 3: Giga Drain
move 4: Helping Hand / Protect
item: Sitrus Berry
nature: Timid
evs: 252 HP / 28 Def / 228 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

This set takes advantage of Virizion's vast support movepool. Reflect and Light Screen help lessen the damage that Virizion and its teammate might take. Virizion's Speed enables it to get these screens up before many strong slower attackers get a chance to move. Giga Drain stops Virizion from becoming Taunt bait, and also enables it to recover HP as it attacks, while Helping Hand can aid its partner in getting OHKOs it might not have been able to score without the boost, which makes Virizion a powerful ally. However, if Helping Hand isn't needed, Protect is a valuable tool to help keep Virizion safe from harm.

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

The EVs and nature enable Virizion to outspeed Pokemon with base 105 Speed or less, and provide ample bulk to cushion hits. Other support options include Taunt, Quick Guard, and Safeguard, all of which might be worth considering over a screen if your team isn't particularly weak to either physical or special hits. Virizion can also run Sacred Sword instead of Giga Drain to hit a little harder, but without Giga Drain's HP recovery, Virizion will be forced to run Leftovers, which is usually an inferior option to Sitrus Berry. Leftovers can replace Sitrus Berry if it is being used by another Pokemon, but seeing as VGC matches don't run for very many turns, Sitrus Berry is preferred.

As Virizion is a supporting Pokemon, its teammates will have to make up for its lack of offensive presence. Strong attackers, such as Dragonite, Latios, Terrakion, Volcarona, and Metagross, all appreciate screen support and Helping Hand's boosts to pick up a few extra KOs. Without a strong offensive partner, Virizion's support efforts will generally be wasted.

[Other Options]

Virizion could make use of any Choice item, but the lack of versatility of these sets can be crippling, especially in fast-paced VGC matches. Virizion's shallow movepool further limits the viability of a Choice item; it will usually have to rely on Hidden Power for coverage. Virizion has access to Calm Mind, Work Up, and Swords Dance, but these moves aren't very viable in VGC and often reveal your set, which makes them mediocre options at best. In conclusion, a fairly shallow movepool leaves Virizion with little to work with outside the listed sets.

[Checks and Counters]

Bulky walls tend to cause trouble for Virizion, especially if they only take neutral damage from Virizion's STAB attacks. Intimidate can cripple the physical set, and special walls will be able to take Virizion's hits with relative ease. Users of Drain Punch, such as Conkeldurr, can hit Virizion hard and regain HP at the same time, and they only take neutral damage from Virizion's STAB attacks. Virizion also has trouble with Dragon-type Pokemon. Even with Hidden Power Ice, Virizion will usually be unable to OHKO common Dragon-types; Latios, Dragonite, and Salamence can thus make quick work of Virizion. Flying-type Pokemon such as Tornadus and Fire-type Pokemon such as Infernape can take down Virizion with their STAB attacks as well.

Solace · Jan 30, 2012

in the overview a con is its weakness to blizzard and heat wave, two common moves

gems should go in AC in both offensive sets

good teammates are fire-types because of their resistance to fire/ice - flash fire users like heatran and chandelure are cool

pokemon with follow me or rage powder can be good to move flying-type moves away although a lot are weak to flying moves

support set should feature sitrus berry only since light clay is really only necessary if youre expecting an incredibly long match since vgc matches arent going to be that many turns generally
leftovers in AC as well although its not as good an option because of the lack of turns to gain back hp

also its acrobatics not acrobat

looks p good so far az make those changes and ill look over it again!!! :)

az · Jan 30, 2012

ty, all done!

Solace · Jan 30, 2012

QC 1/2

Alaka · Jan 31, 2012

I think you should even go past just AC and slash in a gem, or atleast something else, on both LO sets. With item clause the LO is often spoken for and giving it as the only item on the set isn't the greatest.

az · Jan 31, 2012

they were slashed originally, so i'll hold of putting them back until another qc weighs in...?

Biosci · Mar 11, 2012

Yeah I've been trying Virizion out and on the physical attacker set(didn't try out either of the other sets) loved abusing Grass Gem Leaf Blade against Rain(Fighting Gem Close Combat seems it would get some cool overall coverage as well) Also Quick Guard came in handy a lot to block Fake Outs from nearly any Pokemon not under weather(Only one it doesn't block all the time is Infernape, which is a speed tie) I also really liked Heatran as a partner for some good synergy the two actually have and each one can counter specific threats for the other one(Heatran sponges heat wave spam and Virizion gets rid of Gastrodon, etc)

Good analysis(and sorry for any necro bump .-.)

Solace · Mar 31, 2012

in the AC of the physical set you can mention running a naive nature and hidden power ice so you can run a bit of a mixed set for hitting some pesky dragons! also x-scissor could probably do with a slash with stone edge for hitting lati@s and cresselia

gec · Apr 1, 2012

I've used both the Physical and Special versions very extensively, Virizion is definitely a great Pokemon (the Physical set is better but that's a story for another day). Anyway, I definitely think Expert Belt should get a mention in AC. Virizion nets absolutely fantastic super effective coverage, especially against every weather setter in the game. The extra power is also appreciated when you're hitting something super effective but not with a STAB attack, such as Zapdos, Latios, Psychic-types when you're using X-Scissor etc.

Edit - Looked over this once more, it's good to go once all the above changes are done.

QC 2/2

Solace · Jun 2, 2012

okay so i took this over for az and it is now ready for gp checks!

Sprocket · Jun 2, 2012

Pokemon with Hammer Arm or Drain Punch like Conkeldurr can hit Virizion hard and cripple it by lowering Speed or absorbing HP, respectively.

Hammer Arm lowers the user's speed, not the one receiving the attack.

Solace · Jun 2, 2012

nice catch, fixed

Sprocket · Jun 3, 2012

Also, no mention of Fire-types? Volcarona, Rotom-H and Chandelure shut down the Special sets completely, and only fear Stone Edge on the Physical set.

SkullCandy · Jun 3, 2012

[Overview]

Virizion is an excellent Pokemon in the VGC 2012 metagame. It has great STAB coverage against many common Pokemon, like such as Tyranitar and Politoed, among others. With 108 Base Speed, Virizion outspeeds a large portion of the tier metagame, making it an excellent choice to hit quickly and with great power. High Special Defense and decent HP coupled with key resistance to Water-, Rock-, Ground-, and Electric-type spread moves—many of which are spread moves—, along with resistances to Grass- and Dark-type moves, give enable Virizion a role as a defensive threat to be an effective wall and supporting Pokemon as well. Virizion is an excellent Pokemon, However, Virizion's its average offensive stats, shallow movepool, low physical bulk, and weakness to Fire- and Ice-type moves can be detrimental drawbacks limit its usefulness. All in all, Virizion is an incredibly versatile Pokemon that can fit many roles on your team effectively if you choose to use it wisely.

[SET]
name: Physical Attacker
move 1: Leaf Blade
move 2: Sacred Sword / Close Combat
move 3: Stone Edge / X-Scissor
move 4: Protect
item: Life Orb
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

Leaf Blade is Virizion's only physical Grass-type attack, and allows Virizion it to take down many common members of rain teams threats, like such as Politoed, Jellicent, and Gastrodon, as well as other Water-types, like such as Slowbro, Suicune, and Starmie. Leaf Blade also hits many Pokemon commonly found on sand teams threats, like such as Hippowdon, Krookodile, Tyranitar, and Rhyperior, very hard. Sacred Sword and Close Combat provide Virizion with its a strong Fighting-type STAB. Close Combat hits much harder and can gain KOs that Sacred Sword would miss out on(maybe mention some KOs you get imo), but the Defense and Special Defense drops may be too steep a price for your preferences leave Virizion extremely vulnerable to most attacks. With Thanks to its Fighting-type coverage, Virizion is able to hit Excadrill and Heatran for super effective damage, and also is also able to dent Metagross, among other common Pokemon. Stone Edge provides coverage against Flying-type Pokemon, like such as Togekiss, Tornadus, Thundurus, and Zapdos, although its low accuracy is shaky can be incredibly off-putting at best. If Stone Edge doesn't cut it for you, X-Scissor is another option, allowing Virizion to hit Ludicolo, Latios, Latias, Cresselia, and other Psychic- and Grass-types for super effective damage. Protect is a vital move in VGC, allowing and it allows Virizion to avoid a turn of damage while allowing its partner can to take out an imminent threat.

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

Life Orb is the preferred item on Virizion because of thanks to the its 30% attack boost it gives to all of Virizion's attacks,; however, if you find the 10% recoil to be unappealing, Grass Gem or Fighting Gem are both viable options to boost one of Virizion's STAB moves for a one time hit. Expert Belt is another option, allowing as it gives Virizion to get a 20% boost on all its moves super effective hits without any drawbacks. Max Speed EVs and a Jolly nature allow enable Virizion to Speed tie with other base 108 Speed Pokemon, like such as Infernape and Terrakion. Virizion can also run Safeguard or Helping Hand in place of X-Scissor, Stone Edge, or Protect,; however, losing that the coverage or protection granted by those moves can be dangerous and may not be worth your while. Virizion can also run Hidden Power Ice and with a Naive nature to gain coverage on hit Landorus, Garchomp, and other Dragon- and Flying-types, super effectively.

Virizion can pair well with a variety of teammates. Fire-types are good partners because of thanks to their ability to take down Ice-type Pokemon that threaten Virizion. Heatran and Chandelure make for exceptionally good partners because of thanks to their Flash Fire ability, giving which gives them an immunity resistances to Fire-type moves which, alongside their resistance to and Ice-type moves, which are the bane to Virizion's existence make them very good partners to Virizion. Virizion also appreciates Fake Out support, allowing as it allows it to take out threats while they are incapable of attacking. Hitmontop makes for an excellent partner because of thanks to its access to both Fake Out and Wide Guard. Wide Guard can block the Heat Waves and Blizzards that plague Virizion, and Fake Out can give it a free turn in which to attack. Hitmontop also has Intimidate, which Virizion appreciates in order to make up for its lack of physical bulk. Hitmontop's access to Sucker Punch also allows it to take out Chandelure and Latios, who can pose major threats to Virizion. Follow Me and Rage Powder users can also make for good partners for to Virizion,; however, Rage Powder users tend to be Bug-type Pokemon who are may be weak to the Flying-type moves that they may be are redirecting.

[SET]
name: Special Attacker
move 1: Giga Drain
move 2: Focus Blast
move 3: Hidden Power Ice
move 4: Protect
item: Life Orb
nature: Timid
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

With a Special Attack stat equal to its decent Attack stat, Virizion can also run a set that capitalizes on its specially based movepool. Giga Drain provides Virizion with a strong Grass-type STAB as well as recovery, which is something the physical set lacks. Focus Blast is Virizion's only special Fighting-type move, and its low accuracy is a major detriment to the set. However, with 120 base power, Focus Blast really makes an impact hits very hard and makes up for Virizion's only decent offenses. Hidden Power Ice provides coverage against Dragon-types like Salamence, Garchomp, and Landorus, all of which Virizion outspeeds. Protect allows Virizion to scout for moves and protect from damage for a turn.

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

Once again, Life Orb is the recommended item for Virizion. The attack boost is appreciated because Virizion's Speed requires it to use a +Speed nature in order to keep up with common metagame threats (such as?). If the 10% recoil is unappealing, Expert Belt is once again a viable item, boosting Virizion's super effective attacks by 20% at no cost. Grass Gem and Fight Gem are also options, but their one time use may be unappealing.

The EVs maximize Virizion's Special Attack and Speed, allowing it to hit hard while keeping pace with speedy metagame threats. If you want Virizion to run a be slightly bulkier spread, a spread of 28 HP / 252 SpA / 228 Spe is completely viable, however the reduced Speed only allows Virizion to outspeed base 105 Speed Pokemon (such as?).

Virizion will appreciate partners that can break through special walls, like such as Cresselia and Blissey, who it will be is ineffective against. Pokemon like Tyranitar or Hitmontop can make for excellent partners. Tyranitar resists Flying-, Fire-, and Psychic-type moves, and can hit those three types for super effective damage with its STAB moves. Hitmontop makes for a good partner because it has access to Fake Out, Sucker Punch, Wide Guard, and Close Combat, all of which can either dent special walls and also or prevent spread moves, as well as normal attacks, from harming Virizion. Virizion's special side is also more prone to being affected by weather, especially on sand teams where Tyranitar will become a massive wall. Physically based Pokemon will be appreciated even more as teammates under these weather conditions is very susceptible to weather when running this particular set, and it will especially not appreciate the Special Defense boost Tyranitar gains from sandstorm. Therefore, physical attackers who can OHKO Tyranitar make for very useful teammates.

[SET]
name: Dedicated Support
move 1: Reflect
move 2: Light Screen
move 3: Giga Drain
move 4: Helping Hand / Protect
item: Sitrus Berry
nature: Timid
evs: 252 HP / 28 Def / 228 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

This set takes advantage of Virizion's vast support movepool(to do what?). Reflect and Light Screen will help to lessen damage that Virizion and its teammate may might take. Virizion's Speed allows enables it to be able to get these screens up before many strong but slower attackers get a chance to hit move. Giga Drain stops Virizion from becoming Taunt bait, and also allows enables for Virizion it to recover HP as it attacks. Helping Hand can aid your partner in getting OHKOs it may not have been able to score without the boost, making Virizion a powerful ally. However, if Helping Hand isn't needed, Protect can be is a valuable tool for keeping to keep Virizion safe from harm for another turn.

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

The EVs and nature allow enable Virizion to outspeed Pokemon with base 105 Speed or less Pokemon, while also providing ample bulk to cushion hits. Other support options are include Taunt, Quick Guard, and Safeguard, all of which may be worth considering over a screen if your team has enough isn't particularly weak to either physical or special coverage hits. Virizion can also run Sacred Sword instead of Giga Drain to hit a little harder, but without gaining HP back from Giga Drain's HP recovery, Virizion will be forced to run Leftovers, which is usually an inferior option to Sitrus Berry. Leftovers can also replace Sitrus Berry if it is being used by another Pokemon, but since VGC matches don't run for too very many turns, Sitrus Berry is preferred.

Since Virizion is a supporting Pokemon, its teammates will have to make up for the its lack of offensive presence Virizion will have. Strong attackers, like such as Dragonite, Latios, Terrakion, Volcarona, and Metagross, would all appreciate screen support and Helping Hand's boosts in order to gain any some KOs that they'd would ordinarily miss out on. Without a strong offensive partner, Virizion's support efforts will generally be in vain wasted.

[Other Options]

Virizion could make use of any Choice item, but the lack of versatility that they offer can be crippling, especially in fast paced VGC matches. Virizion's shallow movepool also limits the viability of a Choice item, giving very few options on move selection and it will usually have to rely on Hidden Power for coverage. Virizion has access to set up moves like Calm Mind, Work Up, and Swords Dance, but these moves aren't very viable in VGC and give away your set fairly easily, making which makes them mediocre options at best. A generally shallow movepool leaves Virizion with very little to work with other than the listed sets.

[Checks and Counters]

Bulky walls tend to cause trouble for Virizion, especially if they only take neutral damage from Virizion's STAB attacks. Intimidate can cripple the physical set, and special walls will be able to take Virizion's hits with relative ease. Pokemon with Drain Punch, like such as Conkeldurr, can hit Virizion hard and cripple it by absorbing regain HP at the same time, while taking only neutral damage from Virizion's most powerful STAB attacks. Virizion also has trouble with Dragon-type Pokemon also provide trouble for Virizion. Even with Hidden Power Ice, Virizion will often come short of OHKOs usually be unable to OHKO common Dragon-types, resulting in Latios, Dragonite, and Salamence being able to make quick work of Virizion. Tornadus and other Flying-type Pokemon will also be able to take down Virizion with STAB Acrobatics or other Flying-type moves.

[Overview]

Virizion is an excellent Pokemon in the VGC 2012 metagame. It has great STAB coverage against many common Pokemon, such as Tyranitar and Politoed, among others. With 108 Base Speed, Virizion outspeeds a large portion of the metagame, making it an excellent choice to hit quickly and with great power. High Special Defense and decent HP coupled with key resistance to Water-, Rock-, Ground-, and Electric-type moves— which are spread moves—, along with resistances to Grass- and Dark-type moves, enable Virizion to be an effective wall and supporting Pokemon as well. However, Virizion's average offensive stats, shallow movepool, low physical bulk, and weakness to Fire- and Ice-type moves limit its usefulness. All in all, Virizion is an incredibly versatile Pokemon that can fit many roles on your team effectively if you use it wisely.

[SET]
name: Physical Attacker
move 1: Leaf Blade
move 2: Sacred Sword / Close Combat
move 3: Stone Edge / X-Scissor
move 4: Protect
item: Life Orb
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

Leaf Blade is Virizion's only physical Grass-type attack, and allows it to take down many common members of rain teams, such as Politoed, Jellicent, and Gastrodon, as well as other Water-types, such as Slowbro, Suicune, and Starmie. Leaf Blade also hits many Pokemon commonly found on sand teams, such as Hippowdon, Krookodile, Tyranitar, and Rhyperior, very hard. Sacred Sword and Close Combat provide Virizion with a strong Fighting-type STAB. Close Combat hits much harder and can gain KOs that Sacred Sword would miss out on, but the Defense and Special Defense drops leave Virizion extremely vulnerable to most attacks. Thanks to its Fighting-type coverage, Virizion is able to hit Excadrill and Heatran for super effective damage, and is also able to dent Metagross, among other common Pokemon. Stone Edge provides coverage against Flying-type Pokemon, such as Togekiss, Tornadus, Thundurus, and Zapdos, although its accuracy is shaky at best. If Stone Edge doesn't cut it for you, X-Scissor is another option, allowing Virizion to hit Ludicolo, Latios, Latias, Cresselia, and other Psychic- and Grass-types for super effective damage. Protect is a vital move in VGC, and it allows Virizion to avoid a turn of damage while allowing its partner to take out an imminent threat.

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

Life Orb is the preferred item thanks to the 30% boost it gives to all of Virizion's attacks; however, if you find the 10% recoil unappealing, Grass Gem or Fighting Gem are both viable options to boost one of Virizion's STAB moves for a one time hit. Expert Belt is another option, as it gives Virizion a 20% boost on all its super effective hits without any drawbacks. Max Speed EVs and a Jolly nature enable Virizion to Speed tie with other base 108 Speed Pokemon, such as Infernape and Terrakion. Virizion can also run Safeguard or Helping Hand in place of X-Scissor, Stone Edge, or Protect,; however, losing the coverage or protection granted by those moves can be dangerous and may not be worth your while. Virizion can also run Hidden Power Ice with a Naive nature to hit Landorus, Garchomp, and other Dragon- and Flying-types, super effectively.

Fire-types are good partners thanks to their ability to take down Ice-type Pokemon that threaten Virizion. Heatran and Chandelure make for exceptional partners thanks to their Flash Fire ability, which gives them an immunity to Fire-type moves which, alongside their resistance to Ice-type moves, make them very good partners to Virizion. Virizion also appreciates Fake Out support, as it allows it to take out threats while they are incapable of attacking. Hitmontop makes for an excellent partner thanks to its access to both Fake Out and Wide Guard. Wide Guard can block the Heat Waves and Blizzards that plague Virizion, and Fake Out can give it a free turn in which to attack. Hitmontop also has Intimidate, which Virizion appreciates in order to make up for its lack of physical bulk. Hitmontop's access to Sucker Punch also allows it to take out Chandelure and Latios, who pose major threats to Virizion. Follow Me and Rage Powder users can also make for good partners to Virizion,; however, Rage Powder users tend to be Bug-type Pokemon who may be weak to the Flying-type moves that they are redirecting.

[SET]
name: Special Attacker
move 1: Giga Drain
move 2: Focus Blast
move 3: Hidden Power Ice
move 4: Protect
item: Life Orb
nature: Timid
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

With a Special Attack stat equal to its decent Attack stat, Virizion can also run a set that capitalizes on its specially based movepool. Giga Drain provides Virizion with a strong Grass-type STAB as well as recovery, which is something the physical set lacks. Focus Blast is Virizion's only special Fighting-type move, and its low accuracy is a major detriment to the set. However, with 120 base power, Focus Blast hits very hard and makes up for Virizion's only decent offenses. Hidden Power Ice provides coverage against Salamence, Garchomp, and Landorus, all of which Virizion outspeeds. Protect allows Virizion to scout for moves and protect from damage for a turn.

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

Once again, Life Orb is the recommended item for Virizion. The attack boost is appreciated because Virizion's Speed requires it to use a +Speed nature in order to keep up with common metagame threats. If the 10% recoil is unappealing, Expert Belt is once again a viable item, boosting Virizion's super effective attacks by 20% at no cost. Grass Gem and Fight Gem are also options, but their one time use may be unappealing. The EVs maximize Virizion's Special Attack and Speed, allowing it to hit hard while keeping pace with speedy metagame threats. If you want Virizion to be slightly bulkier , a spread of 28 HP / 252 SpA / 228 Spe is completely viable, however the reduced Speed only allows Virizion to outspeed base 105 Speed Pokemon.

Virizion will appreciate partners that can break through special walls, such as Cresselia and Blissey, who it is ineffective against. Pokemon like Tyranitar or Hitmontop make for excellent partners. Tyranitar resists Flying-, Fire-, and Psychic-type moves, and can hit those three types for super effective damage with its STAB moves. Hitmontop makes for a good partner because it has access to Fake Out, Sucker Punch, Wide Guard, and Close Combat, all of which can either dent special walls or prevent spread moves, as well as normal attacks, from harming Virizion. Virizion is very susceptible to weather when running this particular set, and it will especially not appreciate the Special Defense boost Tyranitar gains from sandstorm. Therefore, physical attackers who can OHKO Tyranitar make for very useful teammates.

[SET]
name: Dedicated Support
move 1: Reflect
move 2: Light Screen
move 3: Giga Drain
move 4: Helping Hand / Protect
item: Sitrus Berry
nature: Timid
evs: 252 HP / 28 Def / 228 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

This set takes advantage of Virizion's vast support movepool. Reflect and Light Screen help to lessen damage that Virizion and its teammate might take. Virizion's Speed enables it to get these screens up before many strong but slower attackers get a chance to move. Giga Drain stops Virizion from becoming Taunt bait, and also enables it to recover HP as it attacks. Helping Hand can aid your partner in getting OHKOs it may not have been able to score without the boost, making Virizion a powerful ally. However, if Helping Hand isn't needed, Protect is a valuable tool to keep Virizion safe from harm for another turn.

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

The EVs and nature enable Virizion to outspeed Pokemon with base 105 Speed or less, while also providing ample bulk to cushion hits. Other support options include Taunt, Quick Guard, and Safeguard, all of which may be worth considering over a screen if your team isn't particularly weak to either physical or special hits. Virizion can also run Sacred Sword instead of Giga Drain to hit a little harder, but without Giga Drain's HP recovery, Virizion will be forced to run Leftovers, which is usually an inferior option to Sitrus Berry. Leftovers can replace Sitrus Berry if it is being used by another Pokemon, but since VGC matches don't run for very many turns, Sitrus Berry is preferred.

Since Virizion is a supporting Pokemon, its teammates will have to make up for its lack of offensive presence. Strong attackers, such as Dragonite, Latios, Terrakion, Volcarona, and Metagross, all appreciate screen support and Helping Hand's boosts in order to gain some KOs that they would ordinarily miss out on. Without a strong offensive partner, Virizion's support efforts will generally be wasted.

[Other Options]

Virizion could make use of any Choice item, but the lack of versatility that they offer can be crippling, especially in fast paced VGC matches. Virizion's shallow movepool also limits the viability of a Choice item, and it will usually have to rely on Hidden Power for coverage. Virizion has access to Calm Mind, Work Up, and Swords Dance, but these moves aren't very viable in VGC and give away your set fairly easily, which makes them mediocre options at best. A generally shallow movepool leaves Virizion with very little to work with other than the listed sets.

[Checks and Counters]

Bulky walls tend to cause trouble for Virizion, especially if they only take neutral damage from Virizion's STAB attacks. Intimidate can cripple the physical set, and special walls will be able to take Virizion's hits with relative ease. Pokemon with Drain Punch, such as Conkeldurr, can hit Virizion hard and regain HP at the same time, while taking only neutral damage from Virizion's STAB attacks. Virizion also has trouble with Dragon-type Pokemon. Even with Hidden Power Ice, Virizion will usually be unable to OHKO common Dragon-types, resulting in Latios, Dragonite, and Salamence being able to make quick work of Virizion. Tornadus and other Flying-type Pokemon will also be able to take down Virizion with STAB Acrobatics or other Flying-type moves.

GP approved 1/2

Perfexionist · Jun 8, 2012

Nice write-up! I made an amateur check of the article. Some of the changes I made are not technically necessary, but I felt
they would improve the article.

[Overview]

Virizion is an excellent Pokemon in the VGC 2012 metagame. It has great STAB coverage against many common Pokemon, such as Tyranitar and Politoed~~, among others~~. With 108 Base Speed, Virizion outspeeds a large portion of the metagame, making it an excellent choice to ~~hit~~attack quickly ~~and~~ with great power. High Special Defense and decent HP, coupled with key resistance to Water-, Rock-, Ground-, and Electric-type moves— which are spread moves—, ~~along with~~in addition to resistances to Grass- and Dark-type moves, enable Virizion to be both an effective wall and a supporting Pokemon as well. However, Virizion's is limited by average offensive stats, a shallow movepool, low physical bulk, and weaknesses to Fire- and Ice-type moves ~~limit its usefulness. All in~~ . Overall, Virizion is an incredibly versatile Pokemon that can fit many roles on your team effectively if you use it wisely.

[SET]
name: Physical Attacker
move 1: Leaf Blade
move 2: Sacred Sword / Close Combat
move 3: Stone Edge / X-Scissor
move 4: Protect
item: Life Orb
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

Leaf Blade is Virizion's only physical Grass-type attack, and allows it to take down many common members of rain teams, such as Politoed, Jellicent, and Gastrodon, as well as other Water-types, such as Slowbro, Suicune, and Starmie. Leaf Blade also hits many Pokemon commonly found on sand teams, such as Hippowdon, Krookodile, Tyranitar, and Rhyperior, very hard. Sacred Sword and Close Combat provide Virizion with a strong Fighting-type STAB. Close Combat hits much harder and can gain KOs that Sacred Sword would miss out on, but the Defense and Special Defense drops leave Virizion extremely vulnerable to most attacks. Thanks to its Fighting-type coverage, Virizion is able to hit Excadrill and Heatran for super effective damage, and is ~~also~~ able to dent ~~Metagross, among~~ other common Pokemon., such as Metagross. Although its accuracy is shaky at best, Stone Edge provides coverage against Flying-type Pokemon, such as Togekiss, Tornadus, Thundurus, and Zapdos~~, although its accuracy is shaky at best~~. If Stone Edge doesn't cut it for you, X-Scissor is another option, allowing Virizion to hit Ludicolo, Latios, Latias, Cresselia, and other Psychic- and Grass-types for super effective damage. Protect is a vital move in VGC, a~~nd it allows~~llowing Virizion to avoid a turn of damage while ~~allowing~~ its partner to takes out an imminent threat.

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

Life Orb is the preferred item for this set thanks to the 30% boost it gives to all of Virizion's attacks; however, if you find the 10% recoil unappealing, Grass Gem or Fighting Gem are both viable options to boost one of Virizion's STAB moves for a one -time hit. Expert Belt is another option, as it gives Virizion a 20% boost on all its super effective hits without any drawbacks. Max Speed EVs and a Jolly nature enable Virizion to Speed tie with other base 108 Speed Pokemon, such as Infernape and Terrakion. Virizion can also run Safeguard or Helping Hand in place of X-Scissor, Stone Edge, or Protect,; however, losing the coverage or protection granted by those moves can be dangerous and may not be worth your while. Virizion can also run Hidden Power Ice with a Naive nature to hit Landorus, Garchomp, and other Dragon- and Flying-types, super effectively.

Fire-types are good partners thanks to their ability to take down Ice-type Pokemon that threaten Virizion. Heatran and Chandelure make for exceptional partners t~~hanks~~o Virizion due to their Flash Fire ability, which gives them an immunity to Fire-type moves ~~which, alongside~~, and their resistance to Ice-type moves~~, make them very good partners to Virizion~~. Virizion also appreciates Fake Out support, as it allows itVirizion to take out threats while they are incapable of attacking. Hitmontop makes for an excellent partner, thanks to its access to both Fake Out and Wide Guard. Wide Guard can block the Heat Waves and Blizzards that plague Virizion, and Fake Out can give it a free turn in which to attack. Hitmontop also has Intimidate, which Virizion appreciates in order to make up for its lack of physical bulk. Hitmontop's access to Sucker Punch also allows it to take out Chandelure and Latios, who pose major threats to Virizion. Follow Me and Rage Powder users can also make for good partners to Virizion,; however, Rage Powder users tend to be Bug-type Pokemon who may be weak to the Flying-type moves that they are redirecting.

[SET]
name: Special Attacker
move 1: Giga Drain
move 2: Focus Blast
move 3: Hidden Power Ice
move 4: Protect
item: Life Orb
nature: Timid
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

With a Special Attack stat equal to its decent Attack stat, Virizion can also run a set that capitalizes on its specially -based movepool. Giga Drain provides Virizion with a strong Grass-type STAB ~~as well as~~in addition to recovery, which is something the physical set lacks. Focus Blast is Virizion's only special Fighting-type move, and its low accuracy is a major detriment to the set. However, with 120 base power, Focus Blast hits very hard and makes up for Virizion's onmerely decent offenses. Hidden Power Ice provides coverage against Salamence, Garchomp, and Landorus, all of which Virizion outspeeds. Protect allows Virizion to scout for moves and protect from damage for a turn.

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

Once again, Life Orb is the recommended item for Virizion. The attack boost is appreciated because Virizion's Speed requires it to use a +Speed nature in order to keep up with common metagame threats. If the 10% recoil is unappealing, Expert Belt is, once again a viable item, boosting Virizion's super effective attacks by 20% at no cost. Grass Gem and Fight Gem are also options, but their one time use may bemake them unappealing. The EVs maximize Virizion's Special Attack and Speed, allowing it to hit hard while keeping pace with speedy metagame threats. If you want Virizion to be slightly bulkier , a spread of 28 HP / 252 SpA / 228 Spe is ~~completely viable,~~viable; however, the reduced Speed only allows Virizion to outspeed base 105 Speed Pokemon.

Virizion will appreciate partners that can break through special walls, such as Cresselia and Blissey, who it is ineffective against. Pokemon like Tyranitar or Hitmontop ~~make for excellent partners~~fit this role excellently. Tyranitar resists Flying-, Fire-, and Psychic-type moves, and can hit those three types for super effective damage with its STAB moves. Hitmontop makes for a good partner because it has access to Fake Out, Sucker Punch, Wide Guard, and Close Combat~~, all of which can~~. All of these either dent special walls or prevent spread moves~~, as well as~~ and normal attacks, from harming Virizion. Virizion is very susceptible to weather when running this particular set, and ~~it will especially not appreciate~~particularly dislikes the Special Defense boost Tyranitar gains from sandstorm. Therefore, physical attackers who can OHKO Tyranitar make for very useful teammates.

[SET]
name: Dedicated Support
move 1: Reflect
move 2: Light Screen
move 3: Giga Drain
move 4: Helping Hand / Protect
item: Sitrus Berry
nature: Timid
evs: 252 HP / 28 Def / 228 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

This set takes advantage of Virizion's vast support movepool. Reflect and Light Screen help to lessen the damage that Virizion and its teammate might take. Virizion's Speed enables it to get these screens up before many strong, but slower, attackers get a chance to move. Giga Drain stops Virizion from becoming Taunt bait, and also enables it to recover HP as it attacks. Helping Hand can aid your partner in getting OHKOs i. It may not have been able to score without the boost, ~~making~~which makes Virizion a powerful ally. However, if Helping Hand isn't needed, Protect is a valuable tool to help keep Virizion safe from harm ~~for another turn~~.

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

The EVs and nature enable Virizion to outspeed Pokemon with base 105 Speed or less, ~~while also~~and provid~~ing~~e ample bulk to cushion hits. Other support options include Taunt, Quick Guard, and Safeguard, all of which may be worth considering over a screen if your team isn't particularly weak to either physical or special hits. Virizion can also run Sacred Sword instead of Giga Drain to hit a little harder, but without Giga Drain's HP recovery, Virizion will be forced to run Leftovers, which is usually an inferior option to Sitrus Berry. Leftovers can replace Sitrus Berry if it is being used by another Pokemon, but s~~ince~~eeing as VGC matches don't run for very many turns, Sitrus Berry is preferred.

~~Sinc~~Because Virizion is a supporting Pokemon, its teammates will have to make up for its lack of offensive presence. Strong attackers, such as Dragonite, Latios, Terrakion, Volcarona, and Metagross, all appreciate screen support and Helping Hand's boosts in ~~order to gain some KOs that they would ordinarily miss out on~~to pick up a few extra KOs. Without a strong offensive partner, Virizion's support efforts will generally be wasted.

[Other Options]

Virizion could make use of any Choice item, but the lack of versatility that they ~~offer~~cause can be crippling, especially in fast paced VGC matches. Virizion's shallow movepool ~~also limits~~is another limitation to the viability of a Choice item, and it will usually have to rely on Hidden Power for coverage. Virizion has access to Calm Mind, Work Up, and Swords Dance, but these moves aren't very viable in VGC and ~~give away your set fairly easily, which makes~~often reveal your set, making them mediocre options at best. A ~~general~~fairly shallow movepool leaves Virizion with very little to work with o~~ther than~~utside the listed sets.

[Checks and Counters]

Bulky walls tend to cause trouble for Virizion, especially if they only take neutral damage from Virizion's STAB attacks. Intimidate can cripple the physical set, and special walls will be able to take Virizion's hits with relative ease. Pokemon with Drain Punch, such as Conkeldurr, can hit Virizion hard and regain HP at the same time, ~~while taking only~~and they only take neutral damage from Virizion's STAB attacks. Virizion also has trouble with Dragon-type Pokemon. Even with Hidden Power Ice, Virizion will usually be unable to OHKO common Dragon-types, ~~resulting in~~enabling Latios, Dragonite, and Salamence ~~being able~~ to make quick work of Virizion. Tornadus and other Flying-type Pokemon ~~will also be able t~~can also take down Virizion with STAB Acrobatics or other Flying-type moves.

[Overview]

Virizion is an excellent Pokemon in the VGC 2012 metagame. It has great STAB coverage against many common Pokemon, such as Tyranitar and Politoed. With 108 Base Speed, Virizion outspeeds a large portion of the metagame, making it an excellent choice to attack quickly with great power. High Special Defense and decent HP, coupled with key resistance to Water-, Rock-, Ground-, and Electric-type moves— which are spread moves—, in addition to resistances to Grass- and Dark-type moves, enable Virizion to be both an effective wall and a supporting Pokemon as well. However, Virizion is limited by average offensive stats, a shallow movepool, low physical bulk, and weaknesses to Fire- and Ice-type moves. Overall, Virizion is an incredibly versatile Pokemon that can fit many roles on your team effectively if you use it wisely.

[SET]
name: Physical Attacker
move 1: Leaf Blade
move 2: Sacred Sword / Close Combat
move 3: Stone Edge / X-Scissor
move 4: Protect
item: Life Orb
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

Leaf Blade is Virizion's only physical Grass-type attack, and allows it to take down many common members of rain teams, such as Politoed, Jellicent, and Gastrodon, as well as other Water-types, such as Slowbro, Suicune, and Starmie. Leaf Blade also hits many Pokemon commonly found on sand teams, such as Hippowdon, Krookodile, Tyranitar, and Rhyperior, very hard. Sacred Sword and Close Combat provide Virizion with a strong Fighting-type STAB. Close Combat hits much harder and can gain KOs that Sacred Sword would miss out on, but the Defense and Special Defense drops leave Virizion extremely vulnerable to most attacks. Thanks to its Fighting-type coverage, Virizion is able to hit Excadrill and Heatran for super effective damage, and is able to dent other common Pokemon, such as Metagross. Although its accuracy is shaky at best, Stone Edge provides coverage against Flying-type Pokemon, such as Togekiss, Tornadus, Thundurus, and Zapdos. If Stone Edge doesn't cut it for you, X-Scissor is another option, allowing Virizion to hit Ludicolo, Latios, Latias, Cresselia, and other Psychic- and Grass-types for super effective damage. Protect is a vital move in VGC, allowing Virizion to avoid a turn of damage while its partner takes out an imminent threat.

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

Life Orb is the preferred item for this set thanks to the 30% boost it gives to all of Virizion's attacks; however, if you find the 10% recoil unappealing, Grass Gem or Fighting Gem are both viable options to boost one of Virizion's STAB moves for a one-time hit. Expert Belt is another option, as it gives Virizion a 20% boost on all its super effective hits without any drawbacks. Max Speed EVs and a Jolly nature enable Virizion to Speed tie with other base 108 Speed Pokemon, such as Infernape and Terrakion. Virizion can also run Safeguard or Helping Hand in place of X-Scissor, Stone Edge, or Protect; however, losing the coverage or protection granted by those moves can be dangerous and may not be worth your while. Virizion can also run Hidden Power Ice with a Naive nature to hit Landorus, Garchomp, and other Dragon- and Flying-types super effectively.

Fire-types are good partners thanks to their ability to take down Ice-type Pokemon that threaten Virizion. Heatran and Chandelure make for exceptional partners to Virizion due to their Flash Fire ability, which gives them immunity to Fire-type moves, and their resistance to Ice-type moves. Virizion also appreciates Fake Out support, as it allows Virizion to take out threats while they are incapable of attacking. Hitmontop makes for an excellent partner, thanks to its access to both Fake Out and Wide Guard. Wide Guard can block the Heat Waves and Blizzards that plague Virizion, and Fake Out can give it a free turn in which to attack. Hitmontop also has Intimidate, which Virizion appreciates in order to make up for its lack of physical bulk. Hitmontop's access to Sucker Punch also allows it to take out Chandelure and Latios, who pose major threats to Virizion. Follow Me and Rage Powder users can also make for good partners to Virizion; however, Rage Powder users tend to be Bug-type Pokemon who may be weak to the Flying-type moves that they are redirecting.

[SET]
name: Special Attacker
move 1: Giga Drain
move 2: Focus Blast
move 3: Hidden Power Ice
move 4: Protect
item: Life Orb
nature: Timid
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

With a Special Attack stat equal to its decent Attack stat, Virizion can also run a set that capitalizes on its specially-based movepool. Giga Drain provides Virizion with a strong Grass-type STAB in addition to recovery, which is something the physical set lacks. Focus Blast is Virizion's only special Fighting-type move, and its low accuracy is a major detriment to the set. However, with 120 base power, Focus Blast hits very hard and makes up for Virizion's merely decent offense. Hidden Power Ice provides coverage against Salamence, Garchomp, and Landorus, all of which Virizion outspeeds. Protect allows Virizion to scout for moves and protect from damage for a turn.

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

Once again, Life Orb is the recommended item for Virizion. The attack boost is appreciated because Virizion's Speed requires it to use a +Speed nature in order to keep up with common metagame threats. If the 10% recoil is unappealing, Expert Belt is, once again a viable item, boosting Virizion's super effective attacks by 20% at no cost. Grass Gem and Fight Gem are also options, but their one time use may make them unappealing. The EVs maximize Virizion's Special Attack and Speed, allowing it to hit hard while keeping pace with speedy metagame threats. If you want Virizion to be slightly bulkier , a spread of 28 HP / 252 SpA / 228 Spe is viable; however, the reduced Speed only allows Virizion to outspeed base 105 Speed Pokemon.

Virizion will appreciate partners that can break through special walls, such as Cresselia and Blissey, who it is ineffective against. Pokemon like Tyranitar or Hitmontop fit this role excellently. Tyranitar resists Flying-, Fire-, and Psychic-type moves, and can hit those three types for super effective damage with its STAB moves. Hitmontop makes for a good partner because it has access to Fake Out, Sucker Punch, Wide Guard, and Close Combat. All of these either dent special walls or prevent spread moves and normal attacks from harming Virizion. Virizion is very susceptible to weather when running this particular set, and particularly dislikes the Special Defense boost Tyranitar gains from sandstorm. Therefore, physical attackers who can OHKO Tyranitar make for very useful teammates.

[SET]
name: Dedicated Support
move 1: Reflect
move 2: Light Screen
move 3: Giga Drain
move 4: Helping Hand / Protect
item: Sitrus Berry
nature: Timid
evs: 252 HP / 28 Def / 228 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

This set takes advantage of Virizion's vast support movepool. Reflect and Light Screen help lessen the damage that Virizion and its teammate might take. Virizion's Speed enables it to get these screens up before many strong, but slower, attackers get a chance to move. Giga Drain stops Virizion from becoming Taunt bait, and also enables it to recover HP as it attacks. Helping Hand can aid your partner in getting OHKOs. It may not have been able to score without the boost, which makes Virizion a powerful ally. However, if Helping Hand isn't needed, Protect is a valuable tool to help keep Virizion safe from harm.

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

The EVs and nature enable Virizion to outspeed Pokemon with base 105 Speed or less, and provide ample bulk to cushion hits. Other support options include Taunt, Quick Guard, and Safeguard, all of which may be worth considering over a screen if your team isn't particularly weak to either physical or special hits. Virizion can also run Sacred Sword instead of Giga Drain to hit a little harder, but without Giga Drain's HP recovery, Virizion will be forced to run Leftovers, which is usually an inferior option to Sitrus Berry. Leftovers can replace Sitrus Berry if it is being used by another Pokemon, but seeing as VGC matches don't run for very many turns, Sitrus Berry is preferred.

Because Virizion is a supporting Pokemon, its teammates will have to make up for its lack of offensive presence. Strong attackers, such as Dragonite, Latios, Terrakion, Volcarona, and Metagross, all appreciate screen support and Helping Hand's boosts in to pick up a few extra KOs. Without a strong offensive partner, Virizion's support efforts will generally be wasted.

[Other Options]

Virizion could make use of any Choice item, but the lack of versatility that they cause can be crippling, especially in fast paced VGC matches. Virizion's shallow movepool is another limitation to the viability of a Choice item, and it will usually have to rely on Hidden Power for coverage. Virizion has access to Calm Mind, Work Up, and Swords Dance, but these moves aren't very viable in VGC and often reveal your set, making them mediocre options at best. A fairly shallow movepool leaves Virizion with very little to work with outside the listed sets.

[Checks and Counters]

Bulky walls tend to cause trouble for Virizion, especially if they only take neutral damage from Virizion's STAB attacks. Intimidate can cripple the physical set, and special walls will be able to take Virizion's hits with relative ease. Pokemon with Drain Punch, such as Conkeldurr, can hit Virizion hard and regain HP at the same time, and they only take neutral damage from Virizion's STAB attacks. Virizion also has trouble with Dragon-type Pokemon. Even with Hidden Power Ice, Virizion will usually be unable to OHKO common Dragon-types, enabling Latios, Dragonite, and Salamence to make quick work of Virizion. Tornadus and other Flying-type Pokemon can also take down Virizion with STAB Acrobatics or other Flying-type moves.

Hope I could help.

sirndpt · Jun 8, 2012

[Overview]

Virizion is an excellent Pokemon in the VGC 2012 metagame. It has great STAB coverage against many common Pokemon, such as Tyranitar and Politoed. With ~~108 Base Speed~~ base 108 Speed, Virizion outspeeds a large portion of the metagame, ~~making~~ which makes it an excellent choice to attack quickly with great power. High Special Defense and decent HP stats, coupled with key resistance to Water-, Rock-, Ground-, and Electric-type moves— which are often seen in the form of spread moves—, in addition to resistances to Grass- and Dark-type moves, enable Virizion to be both an effective wall and a supporting Pokemon as well. However, Virizion is limited by average offensive stats, a shallow movepool, low physical bulk, and weaknesses to Fire- and Ice-type moves. Overall, Virizion is an incredibly versatile Pokemon that can fit many roles on your team effectively if ~~you use it~~ used wisely.

[SET]
name: Physical Attacker
move 1: Leaf Blade
move 2: Sacred Sword / Close Combat
move 3: Stone Edge / X-Scissor
move 4: Protect
item: Life Orb
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

Leaf Blade is Virizion's only physical Grass-type attack, and allows it to take down many common members of rain teams, such as Politoed, Jellicent, and Gastrodon, as well as other Water-types, such as Slowbro, Suicune, and Starmie. Leaf Blade also hits many Pokemon commonly found on sand teams, such as Hippowdon, Krookodile, Tyranitar, and Rhyperior, very hard. Sacred Sword and Close Combat provide Virizion with a strong Fighting-type STAB. Close Combat hits much harder and can gain KOs that Sacred Sword would miss out on, but the Defense and Special Defense drops leave Virizion extremely vulnerable to most attacks. Thanks to its Fighting-type coverage, Virizion is able to hit Excadrill and Heatran for super effective damage, and ~~is able to~~ also dent other common Pokemon, such as Metagross. Although its accuracy is shaky at best, Stone Edge provides coverage against Flying-type Pokemon, such as Togekiss, Tornadus, Thundurus, and Zapdos. If Stone Edge doesn't cut it for you, X-Scissor is another option~~, allowing~~ that allows Virizion to hit Grass- and Psychic-types, such as Ludicolo, Latios, Latias, and Cresselia, ~~and other Psychic- and Grass-types~~ for super effective damage. Protect is a vital move in VGC~~, allowing~~ that enables Virizion to avoid a turn of damage while its partner takes out an imminent threat.

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

Life Orb is the preferred item for this set thanks to the 30% boost it gives to all of Virizion's attacks; however, if you find the 10% recoil unappealing, Grass Gem or Fighting Gem are both viable options to boost one of Virizion's STAB moves for a one-time hit. Expert Belt is another option~~, as it gives Virizion a 20% boost on all its~~ that boosts Virizion's super effective hits without any drawbacks. ~~Max Speed EVs~~ Maximum Speed investment and a Jolly nature enable Virizion to Speed tie with other base 108 Speed Pokemon, such as Infernape and Terrakion. Virizion can also run Safeguard or Helping Hand in place of X-Scissor, Stone Edge, or Protect; however, losing the coverage or protection granted by those moves can be dangerous and ~~may~~ might not be worth your while. Virizion can also run Hidden Power Ice with a Naive nature to hit Landorus, Garchomp, and other Dragon- and Flying-types super effectively.

Fire-types are good partners thanks to their ability to take down Ice-type Pokemon that threaten Virizion. Heatran and Chandelure make for exceptional partners to Virizion due to their Flash Fire ability, which gives them immunity to Fire-type moves, ~~and~~ as well as their resistance to Ice-type moves. Virizion also appreciates Fake Out support, as it allows Virizion to take out threats while they are incapable of attacking. ; Hitmontop therefore makes for an excellent partner, thanks to its access to both Fake Out and Wide Guard. Wide Guard can block the Heat Waves and Blizzards that plague Virizion, and Fake Out can give it a free turn in which to attack. Hitmontop also has Intimidate, which ~~Virizion appreciates in order to~~ makes up for ~~its~~ Virizion's lack of physical bulk. Furthermore, Hitmontop's access to Sucker Punch ~~also~~ allows it to take out Chandelure and Latios, who pose major threats to Virizion. Follow Me and Rage Powder users can ~~also~~ make for good partners to Virizion as well; however, Rage Powder users tend to be Bug-type Pokemon, who ~~may~~ might be weak to the Flying-type moves that they are redirecting.

[SET]
name: Special Attacker
move 1: Giga Drain
move 2: Focus Blast
move 3: Hidden Power Ice
move 4: Protect
item: Life Orb
nature: Timid
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

With a Special Attack stat equal to its decent Attack stat, Virizion can also run a set that capitalizes on its specially- based movepool. Giga Drain provides Virizion with a strong Grass-type STAB in addition to recovery, which is something the physical set lacks. Focus Blast is Virizion's only special Fighting-type move, and its low accuracy is a major detriment to the set. However, ~~with~~ thanks to its 120 Base Power, Focus Blast hits very hard and makes up for Virizion's merely decent ~~offense~~ offensive stat. Hidden Power Ice provides coverage against Salamence, Garchomp, and Landorus, all of which Virizion outspeeds. Protect allows Virizion to scout for moves and protect itself from damage for a turn.

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

Once again, Life Orb is the recommended item for Virizion. The attack boost is appreciated because Virizion's Speed stat requires it to use a ~~+Speed~~ Speed-boosting nature in order to keep up with common metagame threats (such as?). If the 10% recoil is unappealing, Expert Belt is, once again a viable item~~, boosting~~ to boost Virizion's super effective attacks by 20% at no cost. Grass Gem and Fighting Gem are also options, but their one-time-use ~~may~~ might make them unappealing. The EVs maximize Virizion's Special Attack and Speed, ~~allowing~~ which allows it to hit hard while keeping pace with speedy metagame threats. If you want Virizion to be slightly bulkier , a spread of 28 HP / 252 SpA / 228 Spe is viable; however, the reduced Speed only allows Virizion to outspeed base 105 Speed Pokemon.

Virizion will appreciate partners that can break through special walls, such as Cresselia and Blissey, whom it ~~is ineffective against~~ fares poorly against; ~~Pokemon like~~ the likes of Tyranitar or and Hitmontop ~~fit~~ fill this role excellently. Tyranitar resists Flying-, Fire-, and Psychic-type moves, and can hit those three types for super effective damage with its STAB moves, while Hitmontop ~~makes for a good partner because it~~ has access to Fake Out, Sucker Punch, Wide Guard, and Close Combat, ~~all of these~~ which either dent special walls or prevent spread moves and normal attacks from harming Virizion. Virizion is very susceptible to weather when running this particular set, and particularly dislikes the Special Defense boost Tyranitar gains from sandstorm. Therefore, physical attackers who can OHKO Tyranitar, (such as?), make for very useful teammates.

[SET]
name: Dedicated Support
move 1: Reflect
move 2: Light Screen
move 3: Giga Drain
move 4: Helping Hand / Protect
item: Sitrus Berry
nature: Timid
evs: 252 HP / 28 Def / 228 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

This set takes advantage of Virizion's vast support movepool. Reflect and Light Screen help lessen the damage that Virizion and its teammate might take. Virizion's Speed enables it to get these screens up before many strong~~, but~~ slower, attackers get a chance to move. Giga Drain stops Virizion from becoming Taunt bait, and also enables it to recover HP as it attacks, while Helping Hand can aid ~~your~~ its partner in getting OHKOs it ~~may~~ might not have been able to score without the boost, which makes Virizion a powerful ally. However, if Helping Hand isn't needed, Protect is a valuable tool to help keep Virizion safe from harm.

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

The EVs and nature enable Virizion to outspeed Pokemon with base 105 Speed or less, and provide ample bulk to cushion hits. Other support options include Taunt, Quick Guard, and Safeguard, all of which ~~may~~ might be worth considering over a screen if your team isn't particularly weak to either physical or special hits. Virizion can also run Sacred Sword instead of Giga Drain to hit a little harder, but without Giga Drain's HP recovery, Virizion will be forced to run Leftovers, which is usually an inferior option to Sitrus Berry. Leftovers can replace Sitrus Berry if it is being used by another Pokemon, but seeing as VGC matches don't run for very many turns, Sitrus Berry is preferred.

~~Because~~ As Virizion is a supporting Pokemon, its teammates will have to make up for its lack of offensive presence. Strong attackers, such as Dragonite, Latios, Terrakion, Volcarona, and Metagross, all appreciate screen support and Helping Hand's boosts in to pick up a few extra KOs. Without a strong offensive partner, Virizion's support efforts will generally be wasted.

[Other Options]

Virizion could make use of any Choice item, but the lack of versatility ~~that they cause~~ of these sets can be crippling, especially in fast-paced VGC matches. Virizion's shallow movepool ~~is another limitation to~~ further limits the viability of a Choice item; ~~and~~ it will usually have to rely on Hidden Power for coverage. Virizion has access to Calm Mind, Work Up, and Swords Dance, but these moves aren't very viable in VGC and often reveal your set, ~~making~~ which makes them mediocre options at best. In conclusion, a fairly shallow movepool leaves Virizion with ~~very~~ little to work with outside the listed sets.

[Checks and Counters]

Bulky walls tend to cause trouble for Virizion, especially if they only take neutral damage from Virizion's STAB attacks. Intimidate can cripple the physical set, and special walls will be able to take Virizion's hits with relative ease. ~~Pokemon with~~ Users of Drain Punch, such as Conkeldurr, can hit Virizion hard and regain HP at the same time, and they only take neutral damage from Virizion's STAB attacks. Virizion also has trouble with Dragon-type Pokemon. Even with Hidden Power Ice, Virizion will usually be unable to OHKO common Dragon-types; ~~enabling~~ Latios, Dragonite, and Salamence to can thus make quick work of Virizion. ~~Tornadus and other Flying-type Pokemon can also take down Virizion with STAB Acrobatics or other Flying-type moves~~ Flying-type Pokemon such as Tornadus can take down Virizion with their STAB attacks as well.

[Overview]

Virizion is an excellent Pokemon in the VGC 2012 metagame. It has great STAB coverage against many common Pokemon, such as Tyranitar and Politoed. With base 108 Speed, Virizion outspeeds a large portion of the metagame, which makes it an excellent choice to attack quickly with great power. High Special Defense and decent HP stats, coupled with key resistance to Water-, Rock-, Ground-, and Electric-type moves—which are often seen in the form of spread moves—in addition to resistances to Grass- and Dark-type moves, enable Virizion to be both an effective wall and a supporting Pokemon as well. However, Virizion is limited by average offensive stats, a shallow movepool, low physical bulk, and weaknesses to Fire- and Ice-type moves. Overall, Virizion is an incredibly versatile Pokemon that can fit many roles on your team effectively if used wisely.

[SET]
name: Physical Attacker
move 1: Leaf Blade
move 2: Sacred Sword / Close Combat
move 3: Stone Edge / X-Scissor
move 4: Protect
item: Life Orb
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

Leaf Blade is Virizion's only physical Grass-type attack, and allows it to take down many common members of rain teams, such as Politoed, Jellicent, and Gastrodon, as well as other Water-types, such as Slowbro, Suicune, and Starmie. Leaf Blade also hits many Pokemon commonly found on sand teams, such as Hippowdon, Krookodile, Tyranitar, and Rhyperior, very hard. Sacred Sword and Close Combat provide Virizion with a strong Fighting-type STAB. Close Combat hits much harder and can gain KOs that Sacred Sword would miss out on, but the Defense and Special Defense drops leave Virizion extremely vulnerable to most attacks. Thanks to its Fighting-type coverage, Virizion is able to hit Excadrill and Heatran for super effective damage, and also dent other common Pokemon, such as Metagross. Although its accuracy is shaky at best, Stone Edge provides coverage against Flying-type Pokemon, such as Togekiss, Tornadus, Thundurus, and Zapdos. If Stone Edge doesn't cut it for you, X-Scissor is another option that allows Virizion to hit Grass- and Psychic-types, such as Ludicolo, Latios, Latias, and Cresselia, for super effective damage. Protect is a vital move in VGC that enables Virizion to avoid a turn of damage while its partner takes out an imminent threat.

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

Life Orb is the preferred item for this set thanks to the 30% boost it gives to all of Virizion's attacks; however, if you find the 10% recoil unappealing, Grass Gem or Fighting Gem are both viable options to boost one of Virizion's STAB moves for a one-time hit. Expert Belt is another option that boosts Virizion's super effective hits without any drawbacks. Maximum Speed investment and a Jolly nature enable Virizion to Speed tie with other base 108 Speed Pokemon, such as Infernape and Terrakion. Virizion can also run Safeguard or Helping Hand in place of X-Scissor, Stone Edge, or Protect; however, losing the coverage or protection granted by those moves can be dangerous and might not be worth your while. Virizion can also run Hidden Power Ice with a Naive nature to hit Landorus, Garchomp, and other Dragon- and Flying-types super effectively.

Fire-types are good partners thanks to their ability to take down Ice-type Pokemon that threaten Virizion. Heatran and Chandelure make for exceptional partners to Virizion due to their Flash Fire ability, which gives them immunity to Fire-type moves, as well as their resistance to Ice-type moves. Virizion also appreciates Fake Out support, as it allows Virizion to take out threats while they are incapable of attacking; Hitmontop therefore makes for an excellent partner thanks to its access to both Fake Out and Wide Guard. Wide Guard can block the Heat Waves and Blizzards that plague Virizion, and Fake Out can give it a free turn in which to attack. Hitmontop also has Intimidate, which makes up for Virizion's lack of physical bulk. Furthermore, Hitmontop's access to Sucker Punch allows it to take out Chandelure and Latios, who pose major threats to Virizion. Follow Me and Rage Powder users can make for good partners to Virizion as well; however, Rage Powder users tend to be Bug-type Pokemon, who might be weak to the Flying-type moves that they are redirecting.

[SET]
name: Special Attacker
move 1: Giga Drain
move 2: Focus Blast
move 3: Hidden Power Ice
move 4: Protect
item: Life Orb
nature: Timid
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

With a Special Attack stat equal to its decent Attack stat, Virizion can also run a set that capitalizes on its specially based movepool. Giga Drain provides Virizion with a strong Grass-type STAB in addition to recovery, which is something the physical set lacks. Focus Blast is Virizion's only special Fighting-type move, and its low accuracy is a major detriment to the set. However, thanks to its 120 Base Power, Focus Blast hits very hard and makes up for Virizion's merely decent offensive stat. Hidden Power Ice provides coverage against Salamence, Garchomp, and Landorus, all of which Virizion outspeeds. Protect allows Virizion to scout for moves and protect itself from damage for a turn.

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

Once again, Life Orb is the recommended item for Virizion. The attack boost is appreciated because Virizion's Speed stat requires it to use a Speed-boosting nature in order to keep up with common metagame threats (such as?). If the 10% recoil is unappealing, Expert Belt is once again a viable item to boost Virizion's super effective attacks by 20% at no cost. Grass Gem and Fighting Gem are also options, but their one-time-use might make them unappealing. The EVs maximize Virizion's Special Attack and Speed, which allows it to hit hard while keeping pace with speedy metagame threats. If you want Virizion to be slightly bulkier, a spread of 28 HP / 252 SpA / 228 Spe is viable; however, the reduced Speed only allows Virizion to outspeed base 105 Speed Pokemon.

Virizion will appreciate partners that can break through special walls, such as Cresselia and Blissey, whom it fares poorly against; the likes of Tyranitar and Hitmontop fill this role excellently. Tyranitar resists Flying-, Fire-, and Psychic-type moves, and can hit those three types for super effective damage with its STAB moves, while Hitmontop has access to Fake Out, Sucker Punch, Wide Guard, and Close Combat, which either dent special walls or prevent spread moves and normal attacks from harming Virizion. Virizion is very susceptible to weather when running this particular set, and particularly dislikes the Special Defense boost Tyranitar gains from sandstorm. Therefore, physical attackers who can OHKO Tyranitar, (such as?), make for very useful teammates.

[SET]
name: Dedicated Support
move 1: Reflect
move 2: Light Screen
move 3: Giga Drain
move 4: Helping Hand / Protect
item: Sitrus Berry
nature: Timid
evs: 252 HP / 28 Def / 228 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

This set takes advantage of Virizion's vast support movepool. Reflect and Light Screen help lessen the damage that Virizion and its teammate might take. Virizion's Speed enables it to get these screens up before many strong slower attackers get a chance to move. Giga Drain stops Virizion from becoming Taunt bait, and also enables it to recover HP as it attacks, while Helping Hand can aid its partner in getting OHKOs it might not have been able to score without the boost, which makes Virizion a powerful ally. However, if Helping Hand isn't needed, Protect is a valuable tool to help keep Virizion safe from harm.

[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]

The EVs and nature enable Virizion to outspeed Pokemon with base 105 Speed or less, and provide ample bulk to cushion hits. Other support options include Taunt, Quick Guard, and Safeguard, all of which might be worth considering over a screen if your team isn't particularly weak to either physical or special hits. Virizion can also run Sacred Sword instead of Giga Drain to hit a little harder, but without Giga Drain's HP recovery, Virizion will be forced to run Leftovers, which is usually an inferior option to Sitrus Berry. Leftovers can replace Sitrus Berry if it is being used by another Pokemon, but seeing as VGC matches don't run for very many turns, Sitrus Berry is preferred.

As Virizion is a supporting Pokemon, its teammates will have to make up for its lack of offensive presence. Strong attackers, such as Dragonite, Latios, Terrakion, Volcarona, and Metagross, all appreciate screen support and Helping Hand's boosts to pick up a few extra KOs. Without a strong offensive partner, Virizion's support efforts will generally be wasted.

[Other Options]

Virizion could make use of any Choice item, but the lack of versatility of these sets can be crippling, especially in fast-paced VGC matches. Virizion's shallow movepool further limits the viability of a Choice item; it will usually have to rely on Hidden Power for coverage. Virizion has access to Calm Mind, Work Up, and Swords Dance, but these moves aren't very viable in VGC and often reveal your set, which makes them mediocre options at best. In conclusion, a fairly shallow movepool leaves Virizion with little to work with outside the listed sets.

[Checks and Counters]

Bulky walls tend to cause trouble for Virizion, especially if they only take neutral damage from Virizion's STAB attacks. Intimidate can cripple the physical set, and special walls will be able to take Virizion's hits with relative ease. Users of Drain Punch, such as Conkeldurr, can hit Virizion hard and regain HP at the same time, and they only take neutral damage from Virizion's STAB attacks. Virizion also has trouble with Dragon-type Pokemon. Even with Hidden Power Ice, Virizion will usually be unable to OHKO common Dragon-types; Latios, Dragonite, and Salamence can thus make quick work of Virizion. Flying-type Pokemon such as Tornadus can take down Virizion with their STAB attacks as well.

remember, base 108 Speed, but 120 Base Power

also, "may" denotes permission, so use "might" where you mean possibility

otherwise, great work guys!

Virizion (GP 2/2)

Solace

royal flush

Solace

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az

toddmoding

Solace

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Alaka

formerly Alakapimp

az

toddmoding

Biosci

Danger!?

Solace

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gec

pharos

Solace

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Sprocket

P(n) = 1 - (1 - P(1))^n

Solace

royal flush

Sprocket

P(n) = 1 - (1 - P(1))^n

SkullCandy

She Bangs The Drums

Perfexionist

sirndpt