Virizion [QC 3/3] [GP 2/2]

EonX

Battle Soul
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[OVERVIEW]

Virizion is one of the best offensive Pokemon in the RU tier. With a fantastic Special Defense stat and a solid set of resistances to common Grass-, Electric-, Water-, and Rock-type moves, Virizion is able to come in on a multitude of threats and begin setting up with Swords Dance or Calm Mind. While many setup sweepers struggle with a less-than-stellar Speed stat, Virizion doesn't have this issue, as its great base 108 Speed stat puts it in front of dangerous offensive Pokemon, including Flygon, Manectric, and Houndoom. While Virizion doesn't have the greatest attacking stats, its access to Swords Dance and Calm Mind makes up for this. These unique traits give Virizion a strong matchup against most teams that lack threats faster than it. However, while Virizion has high-Base Power STAB moves to utilize, it has an otherwise shallow offensive movepool. Its STAB combination is resisted by common Poison- and Flying-types, such as Amoonguss, Venusaur, and Togetic, which will almost always reliably check Virizion. While Virizion's typing is very good overall, it does leave it weak to common Fire-, Flying-, and Ice-type moves in a tier where plenty of dangerous Pokemon have access to them. If you can overcome these very few shortcomings, Virizion will be sure to do very well for you and it is a fantastic option for virtually any offensive team.

[SET]
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Close Combat
move 3: Leaf Blade
move 4: Stone Edge / Zen Headbutt
item: Lum Berry / Life Orb
ability: Justified
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

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

Virizion's flagship set in RU is a simple Swords Dance set. The goal is to come in on a resisted attack, threaten out the foe with a super effective STAB move, and begin setting up with Swords Dance. Close Combat is Virizion's strongest STAB option, and it hammers the likes of Tyrantrum, Mega Steelix, and Aggron very hard. Leaf Blade is a safer STAB move without any drawbacks that is used to deal with the common Water- and Ground-types Virizion can switch into, such as Alomomola, Blastoise, and Rhyperior. The last slot gives Virizion much-needed coverage against Pokemon that resist its STAB combination. Stone Edge is usually the preferred option because Fire- and Flying-types are typically harder to handle defensively, and hitting Pokemon, like Delphox, Sigilyph, and Togetic is generally the better way to go, as the former two are quite difficult to switch into, while the latter can't immediately KO Virizion while it gets 2HKOed by a +2 Stone Edge. Zen Headbutt is an option to beat Poison-types such as Amoonguss, Venusaur, Garbodor, and Weezing more reliably. However, keep in mind that these are generally defensive in nature, making them easier to switch into.

Set Details
========

The EVs couldn't be any simpler for a physical sweeper. A Jolly nature is required to allow Virizion to outspeed the likes of Manectric, Delphox, and Flygon. Lum Berry gives Virizion more flexibility in setting up against more defensive Pokemon, especially bulky Water-types that Virizion loves to switch into. Life Orb is an option that makes Virizion less dependent on setting up with Swords Dance, and it notably allows Virizion to score a 2HKO on Granbull, but it will have a harder time switching into bulky Water-types due to the threat of Scald burns. Justified is Virizion's only ability, but the Attack boost from being hit by stray Dark-type moves is definitely useful.

Usage Tips
========

Virizion is best saved for mid- or late-game situations in which it can set up on a defensive Pokemon and sweep once its checks and counters are weakened or outright removed. If you have to use it early-game to remove a dangerous threat, it's generally best to just use the appropriate move rather than setting up when the opponent likely still has a way of dealing with Virizion. Virizion can switch into bulky Water-types and set up Swords Dance reliably when it's wielding a Lum Berry. If Virizion is using Life Orb, you will likely need to wait until late-game to try to sweep with Virizion due to the recoil damage and lack of protection against status moves. However, due to the item's power boost, Virizion won't always need to use Swords Dance to facilitate a sweep. If possible, keep Virizion's coverage move hidden until the opponent sends in a Pokemon against which it is effective. The lone exception would be Fletchinder, as Gale Wings will force Virizion to catch it on the switch with Stone Edge due to the priority given to Acrobatics.

Team Options
========

When it comes to teammates, preferred ones will largely depend on the coverage move Virizion decides to use. Without Zen Headbutt, Virizion appreciates teammates that can remove Poison-types such as Amoonguss, Venusaur, and Garbodor. Fire- and Psychic-type Pokemon, such as Sigilyph, Emboar, Meloetta, Hoopa, and Delphox, generally fare well against these foes. Fire-types are especially useful, as they tend to attract bulky Water-types that Virizion can use to set up on. If Virizion lacks Stone Edge, it will need partners to remove Sigilyph, Delphox, and Togetic. Houndoom can reliably beat Sigilyph and Delphox, while Steel-types, such as Mega Steelix and Aggron, have little to fear from Togetic. Fletchinder poses a major problem, as Virizion will be unable to sweep as long as it is around due to its access to Gale Wings and Acrobatics. Eelektross, Aggron, Diancie, and Tyrantrum can all beat Fletchinder reliably; however, the latter three need to be wary of Will-O-Wisp. Granbull can be troublesome thanks to Intimidate, a resistance to Fighting, and access to a super effective physical STAB move in Play Rough. Steel-types, such as Escavalier, Mega Steelix, and Aggron can tank Play Roughs comfortably and KO back with their powerful STAB moves.

[SET]
name: Calm Mind
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Giga Drain
move 3: Focus Blast
move 4: Hidden Power Ice
item: Life Orb
ability: Justified
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Calm Mind boosts Virizion's Special Attack to very threatening levels while also making it extremely difficult to revenge kill with special attacks, and Virizion is able to utilize it quite effectively due to its good set of resistances, high Speed, and good STAB coverage. Giga Drain is Virizion's primary STAB option, as it deals solid damage and keeps Virizion in good health from Life Orb recoil and possible resisted attacks it takes while setting up. Focus Blast is a powerful STAB move that is extremely useful considering most Pokemon resistant to Fighting-type moves in RU focus on Defense; although it is inaccurate, it's the only special Fighting-type STAB Virizion has access to. Hidden Power Ice rounds out the set by hitting the many Grass- and Flying-type Pokemon that attempt to stop Virizion from sweeping.

Set Details
========

Virizion needs all of the Special Attack and Speed investment it can get. 252 Speed EVs keep it ahead of Manectric, Delphox, and Flygon, while the Special Attack investment is necessary to maximize damage output. Life Orb is the item of choice, as Virizion needs all the power it can get, and it has a self-healing move in Giga Drain to help offset the recoil. It's tempting to use Leftovers with this set, but the drop in power is pretty significant and Giga Drain is usually enough to keep Virizion healthy enough to sweep late-game.

Usage Tips
========

As Virizion carries Giga Drain on this set, it can come in more freely early-game to check threats. This will also help when Virizion attempts to sweep, as the continuous recovery will keep Virizion out of revenge killing range from the likes of Choice Scarf Tyrantrum and Choice Scarf Flygon. While Focus Blast is the strongest move on this set, Virizion should only use it when absolutely necessary; its accuracy is shaky at best, and a miss against the wrong target could result in a premature end to Virizion's sweep. Keep Hidden Power Ice unrevealed until the opponent sends out a Grass- or Flying-type. You should seek out setup opportunities late-game against bulky Water- and Ground-types to send Virizion in to sweep the rest of the opposing team.

Team Options
========

Fire-types can cause this set problems; Delphox, in particular, is the biggest issue, as Virizion is lacks Rock-type coverage and is outpaced by Choice Scarf variants. Houndoom is a notable teammate, being immune to both of Delphox's STAB options. Slowking, Alomomola, Diancie, and Tyrantrum are capable of handling most other Fire-types reliably. Meloetta, Manectric, and Aggron generally fare well against many common defensive cores in RU, thus weakening opposing teams for Virizion. Entry hazard support is useful to wear down Fire-types quicker. Rhyperior and Stone Edge Mega Steelix can set up Stealth Rock and reliably beat Fletchinder; they also tend to lure in Water-types that Virizion can use as setup fodder late-game. Qwilfish and Garbodor can set up Spikes and tend to draw attention from Ground-types; the former also lures in Electric-types quite often. Virizion has no chance of sweeping if Fletchinder is left on the opposing team, so make sure you have Pokemon that can remove it reliably. Aggron, Tyrantrum, and Diancie fit the bill well, as do Rhyperior and Stone Edge Mega Steelix.

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

Virizion's movepool is fairly shallow, but it does have a couple of other options to consider. It has access to Taunt and Synthesis to create a bit of a stallbreaker set, but this tends to waste Virizion's amazing offensive potential. Sacred Sword could be used over Close Combat if the defense drops are really bothersome for you, but the power drop is very significant and thus the move is generally not worth it. Substitute and Hidden Power Fire are options on the Calm Mind set; however, Substitute means Virizion is walled by virtually any Pokemon that resists its STAB combination, while Hidden Power Fire really only hits Escavalier and requires an imperfect Speed IV.

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

**Amoonguss**: With Regenerator, a 4x Grass resistance, a Fighting resistance, and super effective STAB Sludge Bomb, Virizion loses to Amoonguss unless it packs Zen Headbutt on the Swords Dance set. Beware of boosted Hidden Power Ices from the Calm Mind set, though.

**Revenge Killers**: Faster Pokemon, especially physically offensive ones, can usually keep Virizion's damage to a minimum. Aerial Ace Aerodactyl and Aerial Ace Dugtrio easily beat it, while Durant needs little prior damage. Choice Scarf variants of Emboar and Medicham can also work well due to their super effective STAB moves. Mega Abomasnow, Sneasal, Mega Glalie, and Abomasnow all have Ice Shard to pick off Virizion after some chip damage or Close Combat defense drops.

**Poison-types**: Besides Amoonguss, Venusaur, Weezing, and Garbodor are notable Poison-types that can deal with Virizion. They resist both of its STAB types and only fear Zen Headbutt from the Swords Dance variant. Venusaur needs to be careful of boosted Hidden Power Ice from the Calm Mind set, however.

**Psychic-types**: Sigilyph, Delphox, and Xatu resist both of Virizion's STAB types, but they need to be careful of Stone Edge. Delphox cleanly beats Calm Mind variants. Sigilph and Xatu have a 4x resistance to Fighting, but they can be beaten by Hidden Power Ice from the Calm Mind set.

**Fletchinder**: Fletchinder has a 4x resistance to Grass and resists Fighting as well. Gale Wings Acrobatics ensures a Virizion sweep ends on the spot. A stray Stone Edge will instantly KO Fletchinder, though.

**Togetic**: Stone Edge and Hidden Power Ice hurt, but Togetic can switch into any of Virizion's STAB moves. It can cripple Calm Mind sets with paralysis and wear down Swords Dance variants with Dazzling Gleam or Flamethrower.

**Granbull**: Granbull has Intimidate to soften hits from Swords Dance sets and can use STAB Play Rough to OHKO Virizion. If it's at maximum HP, Granbull can take a +1 Giga Drain from Calm Mind sets and KO Virizion back in emergency situations.
 
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EonX

Battle Soul
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tone down the mentions of vileplume, i've said this before and i'll say it again: it's a niche pokemon and shouldn't be given huge mentions across the majority of our analyses

weezing is better to mention over it, not a super important pokemon either, but it's not nearly outclassed defensively and niche like vileplume is
Reduced Vileplume to 2 small mentions (once in SD and once in C&C)
 

atomicllamas

but then what's left of me?
is a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Senior Staff Member Alumnusis a Community Contributor Alumnusis a Top Tiering Contributor Alumnusis a Contributor Alumnus
look over your Checks and counters, I'm not sure on some of the wording (plus I edited the format to be correct)

qc 2/3
 

EonX

Battle Soul
is a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Social Media Contributor Alumnusis a Forum Moderator Alumnusis a Community Contributor Alumnusis a Tiering Contributor Alumnusis a Top Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Media Contributor Alumnus
Ok, finally got around to writing this up. Few things I want to point out for the 3rd QCer to focus on as it wasn't in the skeleton:
  • Replaced Vileplume mentions with Venusaur
  • Added Manectric and Diancie mentions as I felt were necessary
  • Reworded C&C some. Not sure if I need to do more with this or not
 

Ping_Pong_Along

Bitches love underscores
This looks great. The only thing I'd add are inclusions of Granbull, which is a really major threat for the SD set. Virizion is OHKOed by Play Rough after SR with a bit of investment on the defensive set. Even after a boost, SD Lum Berry Virizion's Leaf Blade is only a 3HKO after SR against defensive Granbull. In fact, I'd probably add the fact that LO 2HKOes as a bonus to that option. It can also tank a +1 Giga Drain at full health, so it can potentially revenge kill the CM set.

QC: 3/3
 
amcheck add remove coms

[OVERVIEW]

Virizion is one of the best offensive Pokemon in the RU tier. With a fantastic Special Defense stat, a solid set of resistances that includes resistances to (common) Grass-, Electric-, Water-, and Rock-type moves, Virizion is able to come in on a multitude of threats and begin setting up with Swords Dance or Calm Mind. While many setup sweepers struggle with a less than stellar Speed stat, Virizion doesn't have this issue, (AC) as its great base 108 Speed stat puts it in front of dangerous offensive Pokemon, like Flygon, Manectric, and Houndoom. This great Speed stat combined with the aforementioned Special Defense and set of resistances gives Virizion a strong matchup against most teams that lack many faster threats than Virizion. While Virizion doesn't have the greatest attacking stats, its access to Swords Dance and Calm Mind more than makes up for this. These unique traits give Virizion a strong matchup against most teams that lack threats faster than it; however, no Pokemon is without its flaws, and as great as Virizion is, it does have a few that you'll need to negotiate with. Virizion has high Base Power STAB moves to utilize, but it has an otherwise shallow offensive movepool. Its STAB combination is resisted by common Poison- and Flying-types, such as Amoonguss, Venusaur, and Togetic, which that will almost always leave wall Virizion walled by something. While Virizion's typing is very good overall, it does leave it weak to common Fire-, Flying-, and Ice-type moves in a tier where plenty of dangerous Pokemon have access to them these moves. If you can overcome these very few shortcomings, Virizion will be sure to do very well for you and it is a fantastic option for virtually any offensive-minded team. (Apparently concluding sentences are allowed and not allowed at the same time so idk)

[SET]
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Close Combat
move 3: Leaf Blade
move 4: Stone Edge / Zen Headbutt
ability: Justified
item: Lum Berry / Life Orb
ability: Justified
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

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

Virizion's flagship set in RU is a simple Swords Dance set. The goal of this set is to come in on a resisted attack one of Virizion's many useful resistances, threaten out the foe with a super effective STAB move, and begin setting up with Swords Dance. Close Combat is Virizion's strongest STAB option, and it hammers the likes of Tyrantrum, Mega Steelix, and Aggron very hard. Leaf Blade is a safer STAB move without any drawbacks that is used to deal with the common Water- and Ground-types Virizion can switch into, as it deals with Pokemon, such as Seismitoad, Alomomola, and Blastoise. The last slot gives Virizion much needed coverage against Pokemon that resist its STAB combination. Stone Edge is usually the preferred option as because Fire- and Flying-types are typically harder to handle defensively. (remove period) and hitting Pokemon, (RC) like Delphox, Sigilyph, and Togetic is generally the better way to go, (AC) as the former two are quite difficult to switch into while Togetic the latter can't immediately KO Virizion while a +2 Stone Edge 2HKOes Togetic. Zen Headbutt is an option if you're more concerned with the Poison-types that can beat Virizion. With Zen Headbutt, Virizion is able to that can beat Poison-types such as Amoonguss, Venusaur, Garbodor, and Weezing more reliably. However, keep in mind that these Poison-types are generally defensive in nature, thus making it easier to switch into them.

Set Details
========

The EVs couldn't be any more simple for a physical sweeper. A Jolly nature is required to allow Virizion to outspeed the likes of Manectric, Delphox, and Flygon. Lum Berry is the preferred hold item for Virizion, as it gives it more flexibility in setting up against more defensive Pokemon, especially bulky Water-types that Virizion loves to switch into. Life Orb is an option that makes Virizion less dependent on setting up with Swords Dance to sweep the opposing team and it notably allows Virizion to score a 2HKO on Granbull, but it will have a harder time switching into bulky Water-types due to the threat of Scald burns. Justified is Virizion's only ability, but the Attack boost from being hit by stray Dark-type moves is definitely useful.

Usage Tips
========

Virizion is best saved for mid- or late-game situations where in which it can set up (add space) on a defensive Pokemon and sweep once its checks and counters are weakened or outright removed. If you have to use Virizion it early-game to remove a dangerous threat, it's generally best to just use the appropriate move rather than setting up when the opponent likely still has a way of removing dealing with Virizion. Virizion can switch into bulky Water-types and set up (remove hyphen) Swords Dance reliably when it's wielding a Lum Berry. If you choose to use Life Orb, you will likely need to wait until late-game to try to sweep with Virizion due to the recoil damage and the lack of protection against status moves. However, due to thanks to the power boost, you won't always need to use Swords Dance to facilitate a sweep. If at all possible, keep Virizion's coverage move hidden until the opponent sends in a Pokemon against which it is effective you can easily target with it. The lone exception would be with Fletchinder, as Gale Wings will force you to catch it on the switch-in with Stone Edge due to the priority given to Acrobatics.

Team Options
========

When it comes to teammates, preferred ones will largely depend on the coverage move Virizion decides to use. Without Zen Headbutt, Virizion appreciates teammates that can remove Poison-types, (RC) such as Amoonguss, Venusaur, and Garbodor. Fire- and Psychic-type Pokemon, such as Sigilyph, Emboar, Meloetta, and Delphox, (AC) generally fare well against these Pokemon. Fire-types are especially useful, (AC) as they tend to attract bulky Water-types, (RC) which that Virizion can use to set up (add space) on. If Virizion lacks Stone Edge, it will need partners to remove Sigilyph, Delphox, and Togetic. Houndoom can reliably beat Sigilyph and Delphox while Steel-types, such as Mega Steelix and Aggron, (AC) have little to fear from Togetic. Fletchinder poses a major problem, as Virizion will be unable to sweep as long as it is around due to Gale Wings and Acrobatics. Eelektross, Aggron, Diancie, and Tyrantrum can all beat Fletchinder reliably; (sc) however, the latter (I'm pretty sure I've seen former/latter used with 2+ things as well, although i'm not 100% sure it's correct) three need to be wary of Will-O-Wisp. Granbull can be troublesome thanks to Intimidate, a Fighting-type resistance, and access to a super effective physical STAB move in Play Rough. Steel-types, such as Escavalier, Mega Steelix, and Aggron, (AC) can tank Play Roughs comfortably and KO back with their powerful STAB moves.

[SET]
name: Calm Mind
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Giga Drain
move 3: Focus Blast
move 4: Hidden Power Ice
item: Life Orb
ability: Justified
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Virizion is able to utilize Calm Mind quite effectively due to its good set of resistances, high Speed, and good STAB coverage. Calm Mind boosts Virizion's Special Attack to very threatening levels while also making it extremely difficult to revenge kill with special attacks. Giga Drain is Virizion's primary STAB option, (AC) as it deals solid damage and keeps Virizion in good health from Life Orb recoil and possible resisted attacks it takes while setting up. Focus Blast is a powerful STAB move that is extremely useful considering many (or most?) Pokemon resistant to Fighting-type resists in RU focus on physical Defense; (SC) While although it is inaccurate, it's the only special Fighting-type STAB Virizion has access to. Hidden Power Ice rounds out the set by hitting the many Grass- and Flying-type Pokemon that attempt to stop Virizion from sweeping.

Set Details
========

Virizion needs all of the Special Attack and Speed investment it can get. The 252 Speed keeps it ahead of Manectric, Delphox, and Flygon, while the Special Attack investment is necessary for to maximize the damage output and the fact that because Calm Mind doesn't let Virizion boost as quickly as Swords Dance does (the sd set has 252 atk evs as well so it's not really a valid point..?). Life Orb is the item of choice, (AC) as Virizion needs all the power it can get with this set and it has a self-healing move in Giga Drain to help offset the recoil. It's tempting to use Leftovers with this set, but the drop off in power is pretty significant and Giga Drain is usually enough to keep Virizion healthy enough to sweep late-game.

Usage Tips
========

As Virizion carries Giga Drain on this set, it can come in more freely early-game to check threats. This will also help when Virizion attempts to sweep, (AC) as the continuous recovery thanks to keeping in good health and will keep Virizion out of revenge killing range of from the likes of Choice Scarf Tyrantrum, (RC) and Choice Scarf Flygon, and others. While Focus Blast is the strongest move on this set, you should only use it when absolutely necessary; (SC) The its accuracy is shaky at best, and a miss against the wrong target could result in a premature end to Virizion's sweep. Keep Hidden Power Ice hidden unrevealed until the opponent sends out a Grass- or Flying-type to try and revenge kill Virizion or take a hit from it and KO back. You should seek out setup opportunities late-game against bulky Water- and Ground-types with Virizion late-game to sweep the rest of the opposing team.

Team Options
========

Fire-types, especially Delphox, can cause this set problems issues; (SC) Delphox, in particular, is the biggest issue, as Virizion is slower than it and lacks Rock-type coverage as due to it boosting slower and lacking Rock-type coverage. As Delphox is the biggest issue, (I wouldn't even mention this in the TO paragraph; I'd just add in the following sentence that Delphox is a common counter to this set, without expanding much. It's more of a personal thing though) Houndoom is a very notable teammate, (AC) due to being immune to both of Delphox's STAB options. Slowking, Alomomola, Diancie, and Tyrantrum are capable of handling most other Fire-types reliably. As Virizion doesn't boost as quickly with Calm Mind as it can does with Swords Dance, wallbreakers are very nice partners to make up for this. Meloetta, Manectric, and Aggron generally fare well against many common defensive cores in RU. Entry hazard support is another way to make up for the lower damage output of this set. Rhyperior and Stone Edge Mega Steelix can set up Stealth Rock and reliably beat Fletchinder; (SC) they also tend to lure in Water-types, which that Virizion can use as setup bait fodder late-game. Qwilfish and Garbodor can set up Spikes and tend to draw attention from Ground-types; (SC) Qwilfish the former also lures in Electric-types quite often. Virizion has no chance of sweeping if a Fletchinder is left on the opposing team, so make sure you have Pokemon that can remove it reliably. Aggron, Tyrantrum, and Diancie fit the bill well, as do the aforementioned Rhyperior and Stone Edge Mega Steelix.

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

As previously stated, Virizion's movepool is fairly shallow, but it does have a couple of other options to consider. It has access to Taunt and Synthesis to create a bit of a stallbreaker set, but this tends to waste Virizion's amazing offensive potential. Sacred Sword could be used over Close Combat if the Defense drops are really bothersome for you, but the power drop is very significant and generally not worth it. Substitute and Hidden Power Fire are possible options on the Calm Mind set; (SC) however, Substitute means Virizion is walled by virtually any Pokemon that resists its STAB combination while Hidden Power Fire really only hits Escavalier and requires an imperfect Speed IV.

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

**Amoonguss**: With Regenerator, a 4x Grass resistance, Fighting resistance, and super effective STAB Sludge Bomb, Virizion loses to Amoonguss unless it packs Zen Headbutt on the Swords Dance set. Beware of boosted Hidden Power Ices from the Calm Mind set, (AC) though.

**Revenge Killers**: Faster Pokemon, especially physically offensive ones, can usually keep Virizion's damage to a minimum. Aerial Ace Aerodactyl and Aerial Ace Dugtrio easily win, while and Durant needs little passive prior damage. Choice Scarf variants of Emboar and Medicham can also work well here due to their super effective STAB moves. Mega Abomasnow, Sneasal, Mega Glalie, and Abomasnow each all have Ice Shard to pick off Virizion after some chip damage or Close Combat defense drops.

**Poison-types**: Besides Amoonguss, Venusaur, Weezing, and Garbodor are notable Poison-types that can deal with Virizion the main ones here aside from the aforementioned Amoonguss. They resist both STABs moves and only fear Zen Headbutt on from the Swords Dance variant. Venusaur needs to be careful of boosted Hidden Power Ices from the Calm Mind set, however.

**Psychic-types**: Sigilyph, Delphox, and Xatu are the key ones here. They resist both of Virizion's STABs moves, but they need to be careful of Stone Edge. Delphox cleanly beats Calm Mind variants. Sigilph and Xatu have a 4x resistance to Fighting, but they can be beaten by Hidden Power Ice from the Calm Mind set.

**Fletchinder**: It Fletchinder has a 4x resists resistance to Grass and resists Fighting as well. Gale Wings Acrobatics ensures a Virizion sweep ends on the spot. A stray Stone Edge will instantly KO Fletchinder, (AC) though.

**Togetic**: Stone Edge and Hidden Power Ice hurt, but Togetic can switch into either both of Virizion's STAB attacks. It can cripple Calm Mind sets with paralysis and wear down Swords Dance variants with Dazzling Gleam or Flamethrower.

**Granbull**: Granbull has Intimidate to soften hits from Swords Dance sets and it can use STAB Play Rough to OHKO Virizion. If it's at max HP, Granbull can take a +1 Giga Drain from Calm Mind sets and KO back in emergency situations.
 

Empress

We invited the strippers, JFK and Stalin.
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Haund: add remove coms
Me: add remove comments
[OVERVIEW]

Virizion is one of the best offensive Pokemon in the RU tier. With a fantastic Special Defense stat, (RC) and a solid set of resistances that includes resistances to (common) Grass-, Electric-, Water-, and Rock-type moves, Virizion is able to come in on a multitude of threats and begin setting up with Swords Dance or Calm Mind. While many setup sweepers struggle with a less-(AH)than-(AH)stellar Speed stat, Virizion doesn't have this issue, (AC) as its great base 108 Speed stat puts it in front of dangerous offensive Pokemon, like including Flygon, Manectric, and Houndoom. This great Speed stat combined with the aforementioned Special Defense and set of resistances gives Virizion a strong matchup against most teams that lack many faster threats than Virizion. While Virizion doesn't have the greatest attacking stats, its access to Swords Dance and Calm Mind more than makes up for this. These unique traits give Virizion a strong matchup against most teams that lack threats faster than it. However, while no Pokemon is without its flaws, and as great as Virizion is, it does have a few that you'll need to negotiate with. Virizion has high Base Power STAB moves to utilize, but it has an otherwise shallow offensive movepool. Its STAB combination is resisted by common Poison- and Flying-types, such as Amoonguss, Venusaur, and Togetic, which that (no, "which" is correct) will almost always leave wall Virizion walled by something. While Virizion's typing is very good overall, it does leave it weak to common Fire-, Flying-, and Ice-type moves in a tier where plenty of dangerous Pokemon have access to them these moves. If you can overcome these very few shortcomings, Virizion will be sure to do very well for you and it is a fantastic option for virtually any offensive-minded team. (Apparently concluding sentences are allowed and not allowed at the same time so idk) (Sometimes this rule confuses me too. I'll get a second opinion this time.)

[SET]
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Close Combat
move 3: Leaf Blade
move 4: Stone Edge / Zen Headbutt
ability: Justified
item: Lum Berry / Life Orb
ability: Justified
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

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

Virizion's flagship set in RU is a simple Swords Dance set. The goal of this set is to come in on a resisted attack one of Virizion's many useful resistances, threaten out the foe with a super effective STAB move, and begin setting up with Swords Dance. Close Combat is Virizion's strongest STAB option, and it hammers the likes of Tyrantrum, Mega Steelix, and Aggron very hard. Leaf Blade is a safer STAB move without any drawbacks that is used to deal with the common Water- and Ground-types Virizion can switch into, as it deals with Pokemon, such as Seismitoad, Alomomola, and Blastoise. The last slot gives Virizion much-(AH)needed coverage against Pokemon that resist its STAB combination. Stone Edge is usually the preferred option as because Fire- and Flying-types are typically harder to handle defensively, (AC). (remove period) and hitting Pokemon, (RC) like Delphox, Sigilyph, and Togetic is generally the better way to go, (AC) as the former two are quite difficult to switch into, (AC) while Togetic the latter can't immediately KO Virizion while and gets 2HKOed by a +2 Stone Edge 2HKOes Togetic. (Had to go to passive voice to avoid redundancy) Zen Headbutt is an option if you're more concerned with the Poison-types that can beat Virizion. With Zen Headbutt, Virizion is able to that can beat Poison-types such as Amoonguss, Venusaur, Garbodor, and Weezing more reliably. However, keep in mind that these Poison-types are generally defensive in nature, thus making it easier to switch into them.

Set Details
========

The EVs couldn't be any more simple for a physical sweeper. A Jolly nature is required to allow Virizion (nah, keep this to clarify) to outspeed the likes of Manectric, Delphox, and Flygon. Lum Berry is the preferred hold item for Virizion, as it gives it Virizion more flexibility in setting up against more defensive Pokemon, especially bulky Water-types that Virizion loves to switch into. Life Orb is an option that makes Virizion less dependent on setting up with Swords Dance, (AC) to sweep the opposing team and it notably allows Virizion to score a 2HKO on Granbull, but it will have a harder time switching into bulky Water-types due to the threat of Scald burns. Justified is Virizion's only ability, but the Attack boost from being hit by stray (nah, keep this to clarify) Dark-type moves is definitely useful.

Usage Tips
========

Virizion is best saved for mid- or late-game situations where in which it can set up (add space) on a defensive Pokemon and sweep once its checks and counters are weakened or outright removed. If you have to use Virizion it early-game to remove a dangerous threat, it's generally best to just use the appropriate move rather than setting up when the opponent likely still has a way of removing dealing with Virizion. Virizion can switch into bulky Water-types and set up (remove hyphen) Swords Dance reliably when it's wielding a Lum Berry. If you choose to use Virizion is not running Life Orb, you will likely need to wait until late-game to try to sweep with Virizion due to the recoil damage and the lack of protection against status moves. However, due to thanks to the power boost, you Virizion won't always need to use Swords Dance to facilitate a sweep. If at all possible, keep Virizion's coverage move hidden until the opponent sends in a Pokemon against which it is effective you can easily target with it. The lone exception would be with Fletchinder, as Gale Wings will force you Virizion to catch it on the switch-in with Stone Edge due to the priority given to Acrobatics.

Team Options
========

When it comes to teammates, preferred ones will largely depend on the coverage move Virizion decides to use. Without Zen Headbutt, Virizion appreciates teammates that can remove Poison-types, (RC) such as Amoonguss, Venusaur, and Garbodor. Fire- and Psychic-type Pokemon, such as Sigilyph, Emboar, Meloetta, and Delphox, (AC) generally fare well against these Pokemon. Fire-types are especially useful, (AC) as they tend to attract bulky Water-types, (RC) which that Virizion can use to set up (add space) on. If Virizion lacks Stone Edge, it will need partners to remove Sigilyph, Delphox, and Togetic. Houndoom can reliably beat Sigilyph and Delphox, (AC) while Steel-types, such as Mega Steelix and Aggron, (AC) have little to fear from Togetic. Fletchinder poses a major problem, as Virizion will be unable to sweep as long as it is around due to its access to Gale Wings and Acrobatics. Eelektross, Aggron, Diancie, and Tyrantrum can all beat Fletchinder reliably; (sc) however, the latter (I'm pretty sure I've seen former/latter used with 2+ things as well, although i'm not 100% sure it's correct) three need to be wary of Will-O-Wisp. Granbull can be troublesome thanks to Intimidate, a Fighting-type resistance to Fighting, and access to a super effective physical STAB move in Play Rough. Steel-types, such as Escavalier, Mega Steelix, and Aggron, (AC) can tank Play Roughs comfortably and KO back with their powerful STAB moves.

[SET]
name: Calm Mind
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Giga Drain
move 3: Focus Blast
move 4: Hidden Power Ice
item: Life Orb
ability: Justified
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Virizion is able to utilize Calm Mind quite effectively due to its good set of resistances, high Speed, and good STAB coverage. Calm Mind boosts Virizion's Special Attack to very threatening levels while also making it extremely difficult to revenge kill with special attacks. Giga Drain is Virizion's primary STAB option, (AC) as it deals solid damage and keeps Virizion in good health from Life Orb recoil and possible resisted attacks it takes while setting up. Focus Blast is a powerful STAB move that is extremely useful considering many (or most?) Pokemon resistant to Fighting-type resists in RU focus on physical Defense; (SC) While although it is inaccurate, it's the only special Fighting-type STAB Virizion has access to. Hidden Power Ice rounds out the set by hitting the many Grass- and Flying-type Pokemon that attempt to stop Virizion from sweeping.

Set Details
========

Virizion needs all of the Special Attack and Speed investment it can get. The 252 Speed EVs keeps it ahead of Manectric, Delphox, and Flygon, while the Special Attack investment is necessary for to maximize the damage output and the fact that Calm Mind doesn't let Virizion boost as quickly as Swords Dance does (the sd set has 252 atk evs as well so it's not really a valid point..?). (I think he's referring to the fact that CM's +1 SpA boost isn't as much as SD's +2 Atk boost. Not that this should be here anyway.) Life Orb is the item of choice, (AC) as Virizion needs all the power it can get, (AC) with this set and it has a self-healing move in Giga Drain to help offset the recoil. It's tempting to use Leftovers with this set, but the drop off in power is pretty significant and Giga Drain is usually enough to keep Virizion healthy enough to sweep late-game.

Usage Tips
========

As Virizion carries Giga Drain on this set, it can come in more freely early-game to check threats. This will also help when Virizion attempts to sweep, (AC) as the continuous recovery thanks to keeping in good health and will keep Virizion out of revenge killing range of from the likes of Choice Scarf Tyrantrum, (RC) and Choice Scarf Flygon, and others. While Focus Blast is the strongest move on this set, you Virizion should only use it when absolutely necessary; (SC) The its accuracy is shaky at best, and a miss against the wrong target could result in a premature end to Virizion's sweep. Keep Hidden Power Ice hidden unrevealed until the opponent sends out a Grass- or Flying-type to try and revenge kill Virizion or take a hit from it and KO back. You should seek out setup opportunities late-game against bulky Water- and Ground-types with Virizion late-game to send in Virizion to sweep the rest of the opposing team.

Team Options
========

Fire-types, especially Delphox, can cause this set problems issues; (SC) Delphox, in particular, is the biggest issue, as Virizion is slower than it and lacks Rock-type coverage as due to it boosting slower and lacking Rock-type coverage. As Delphox is the biggest issue, (I wouldn't even mention this in the TO paragraph; I'd just add in the following sentence that Delphox is a common counter to this set, without expanding much. It's more of a personal thing though) Houndoom is a very notable teammate, (AC) due to being immune to both of Delphox's STAB options. Slowking, Alomomola, Diancie, and Tyrantrum are capable of handling most other Fire-types reliably. As Virizion doesn't boost as quickly with Calm Mind as it can with Swords Dance, wallbreakers are very nice partners to make up for this. (Don't cross-reference until you get to Other Options) Meloetta, Manectric, and Aggron generally fare well against many common defensive cores in RU. Entry hazard support is another way to make up for the lower damage output of this set. (Again, don't cross-reference, but instead try to fit this in somewhere else) Rhyperior and Stone Edge Mega Steelix can set up Stealth Rock and reliably beat Fletchinder; (SC) they also tend to lure in Water-types, which that Virizion can use as setup bait fodder late-game. Qwilfish and Garbodor can set up Spikes and tend to draw attention from Ground-types; (SC) Qwilfish the former also lures in Electric-types quite often. Virizion has no chance of sweeping if a Fletchinder is left on the opposing team, so make sure you have Pokemon that can remove it reliably. Aggron, Tyrantrum, and Diancie fit the bill well, as do the aforementioned Rhyperior and Stone Edge Mega Steelix.

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

As previously stated, Virizion's movepool is fairly shallow, but it does have a couple of other options to consider. It has access to Taunt and Synthesis to create a bit of a stallbreaker set, but this tends to waste Virizion's amazing offensive potential. Sacred Sword could be used over Close Combat if the Defense drops are really bothersome for you, but the power drop is very significant and thus the move is generally not worth it. Substitute and Hidden Power Fire are possible options on the Calm Mind set; (SC) however, Substitute means Virizion is walled by virtually any Pokemon that resists its STAB combination, (AC) while Hidden Power Fire really only hits Escavalier and requires an imperfect Speed IV.

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

**Amoonguss**: With Regenerator, a 4x Grass resistance, a Fighting resistance, and a super effective STAB Sludge Bomb, Virizion loses to Amoonguss unless it packs Zen Headbutt on the Swords Dance set. Beware of boosted Hidden Power Ices from the Calm Mind set, (AC) though.

**Revenge Killers**: Faster Pokemon, especially physically offensive ones, can usually keep Virizion's damage to a minimum. Aerial Ace Aerodactyl and Aerial Ace Dugtrio easily win beat it, while and Durant needs little passive prior damage. Choice Scarf variants of Emboar and Medicham can also work well here due to their super effective STAB moves. Mega Abomasnow, Sneasal, Mega Glalie, and Abomasnow each all have Ice Shard to pick off Virizion after some chip damage or Close Combat defense drops.

**Poison-types**: Besides Amoonguss, Venusaur, Weezing, and Garbodor are notable Poison-types that can deal with Virizion the main ones here aside from the aforementioned Amoonguss. They resist both of its STABs types and only fear Zen Headbutt on from the Swords Dance variant. Venusaur needs to be careful of a boosted Hidden Power Ices from the Calm Mind set, however.

**Psychic-types**: Sigilyph, Delphox, and Xatu are the key ones here. They resist both of Virizion's STABs types, but they need to be careful of Stone Edge. Delphox cleanly beats Calm Mind variants. Sigilph and Xatu have a 4x resistance to Fighting, but they can be beaten by Hidden Power Ice from the Calm Mind set.

**Fletchinder**: It Fletchinder has a 4x resists resistance to Grass and resists Fighting as well. Gale Wings Acrobatics ensures a Virizion sweep ends on the spot. A stray Stone Edge will instantly KO Fletchinder, (AC) though.

**Togetic**: Stone Edge and Hidden Power Ice hurt, but Togetic can switch into either any of Virizion's STAB moves. It can cripple Calm Mind sets with paralysis and wear down Swords Dance variants with Dazzling Gleam or Flamethrower.

**Granbull**: Granbull has Intimidate to soften hits from Swords Dance sets and it can use STAB Play Rough to OHKO Virizion. If it's at maximum HP, Granbull can take a +1 Giga Drain from Calm Mind sets and KO Virizion back in emergency situations.
Excellent work Haund. Stamping.
GP 1/2
 

Lumari

thinking of a place
is a Site Content Manageris a Top Social Media Contributoris a Member of Senior Staffis a Community Contributoris a Top Contributoris a Top Smogon Media Contributoris an Administrator Alumnus
TFP Leader
remove add / fix (comments); (AC=add comma; RC=remove comma; SC=semicolon)
GP 2/2
[OVERVIEW]

Virizion is one of the best offensive Pokemon in the RU tier. With a fantastic Special Defense stat (RC) and a solid set of resistances to common Grass-, Electric-, Water-, and Rock-type moves, Virizion is able to come in on a multitude of threats and begin setting up with Swords Dance or Calm Mind. While many setup sweepers struggle with a less-than-stellar Speed stat, Virizion doesn't have this issue, as its great base 108 Speed stat puts it in front of dangerous offensive Pokemon, including Flygon, Manectric, and Houndoom. While Virizion doesn't have the greatest attacking stats, its access to Swords Dance and Calm Mind makes up for this. These unique traits give Virizion a strong matchup against most teams that lack threats faster than it. However, while Virizion has high-Base (add hyphen) Power STAB moves to utilize, it has an otherwise shallow offensive movepool. Its STAB combination is resisted by common Poison- and Flying-types, such as Amoonguss, Venusaur, and Togetic, which will almost always reliably check Virizion. While Virizion's typing is very good overall, it does leave it weak to common Fire-, Flying-, and Ice-type moves in a tier where plenty of dangerous Pokemon have access to them. If you can overcome these very few shortcomings, Virizion will be sure to do very well for you and it is a fantastic option for virtually any offensive team.

[SET]
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Close Combat
move 3: Leaf Blade
move 4: Stone Edge / Zen Headbutt
item: Lum Berry / Life Orb
ability: Justified
nature: Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe

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

Virizion's flagship set in RU is a simple Swords Dance set. The goal of this set is to come in on a resisted attack, threaten out the foe with a super effective STAB move, and begin setting up with Swords Dance. Close Combat is Virizion's strongest STAB option, and it hammers the likes of Tyrantrum, Mega Steelix, and Aggron very hard. Leaf Blade is a safer STAB move without any drawbacks that is used to deal with the common Water- and Ground-types Virizion can switch into, such as Seismitoad, Alomomola, and Blastoise, (AC) and Seismitoad. (a pure Ground-type would make a more suitable example) The last slot gives Virizion much-needed coverage against Pokemon that resist its STAB combination. Stone Edge is usually the preferred option because Fire- and Flying-types are typically harder to handle defensively, and hitting Pokemon, like Delphox, Sigilyph, and Togetic is generally the better way to go, as the former two are quite difficult to switch into, while the latter can't immediately KO Virizion while and it gets 2HKOed by a +2 Stone Edge. Zen Headbutt is an option that can to beat Poison-types (RC) such as Amoonguss, Venusaur, Garbodor, and Weezing more reliably. However, keep in mind that these Poison-types are generally defensive in nature, thus making it them easier to switch into them.

Set Details
========

The EVs couldn't be any more simple simpler for a physical sweeper. A Jolly nature is required to allow Virizion to outspeed the likes of Manectric, Delphox, and Flygon. Lum Berry gives Virizion more flexibility in setting up against more defensive Pokemon, especially bulky Water-types that Virizion loves to switch into. Life Orb is an option that makes Virizion less dependent on setting up with Swords Dance, and it notably allows Virizion to score a 2HKO on Granbull, but it will have a harder time switching into bulky Water-types due to the threat of Scald burns. Justified is Virizion's only ability, but the Attack boost from being hit by stray Dark-type moves is definitely useful.

Usage Tips
========

Virizion is best saved for mid- or late-game situations in which it can set up on a defensive Pokemon and sweep once its checks and counters are weakened or outright removed. If you have to use it early-game to remove a dangerous threat, it's generally best to just use the appropriate move rather than setting up when the opponent likely still has a way of dealing with Virizion. Virizion can switch into bulky Water-types and set up Swords Dance reliably when it's wielding a Lum Berry. If Virizion is using Life Orb, you will likely need to wait until late-game to try to sweep with Virizion due to the recoil damage and lack of protection against status moves. However, due to the item's (clarity) power boost, Virizion won't always need to use Swords Dance to facilitate a sweep. If possible, keep Virizion's coverage move hidden until the opponent sends in a Pokemon against which it is effective. The lone exception would be Fletchinder, as Gale Wings will force Virizion to catch it on the switch with Stone Edge due to the priority given to Acrobatics.

Team Options
========

When it comes to teammates, preferred ones will largely depend on the coverage move Virizion decides to use. Without Zen Headbutt, Virizion appreciates teammates that can remove Poison-types such as Amoonguss, Venusaur, and Garbodor. Fire- and Psychic-type Pokemon, such as Sigilyph, Emboar, Meloetta, Hoopa, and Delphox, generally fare well against these Pokemon foes. (repetition) Fire-types are especially useful, as they tend to attract bulky Water-types that Virizion can use to set up on. If Virizion lacks Stone Edge, it will need partners to remove Sigilyph, Delphox, and Togetic. Houndoom can reliably beat Sigilyph and Delphox, while Steel-types, such as Mega Steelix and Aggron, have little to fear from Togetic. Fletchinder poses a major problem, as Virizion will be unable to sweep as long as it is around due to its access to Gale Wings and Acrobatics. Eelektross, Aggron, Diancie, and Tyrantrum can all beat Fletchinder reliably; however, the latter three need to be wary of Will-O-Wisp. Granbull can be troublesome thanks to Intimidate, a resistance to Fighting, and access to a super effective physical STAB move in Play Rough. Steel-types, such as Escavalier, Mega Steelix, and Aggron can tank Play Roughs comfortably and KO back with their powerful STAB moves.

[SET]
name: Calm Mind
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Giga Drain
move 3: Focus Blast
move 4: Hidden Power Ice
item: Life Orb
ability: Justified
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Virizion is able to utilize Calm Mind quite effectively due to its good set of resistances, high Speed, and good STAB coverage. Calm Mind boosts Virizion's Special Attack to very threatening levels while also making it extremely difficult to revenge kill with special attacks, (AC) and Virizion is able to utilize is quite effectively due to its good set of resistances, high Speed, and good STAB coverage. Giga Drain is Virizion's primary STAB option, as it deals solid damage and keeps Virizion in good health from Life Orb recoil and possible resisted attacks it takes while setting up. Focus Blast is a powerful STAB move that is extremely useful considering most Pokemon resistant to Fighting-type moves in RU focus on Defense; although it is inaccurate, it's the only special Fighting-type STAB Virizion has access to. Hidden Power Ice rounds out the set by hitting the many Grass- and Flying-type Pokemon that attempt to stop Virizion from sweeping.

Set Details
========

Virizion needs all of the Special Attack and Speed investment it can get. 252 Speed EVs keep it ahead of Manectric, Delphox, and Flygon, while the Special Attack investment is necessary to maximize damage output. Life Orb is the item of choice, as Virizion needs all the power it can get, and it has a self-healing move in Giga Drain to help offset the recoil. It's tempting to use Leftovers with this set, but the drop in power is pretty significant and Giga Drain is usually enough to keep Virizion healthy enough to sweep late-game.

Usage Tips
========

As Virizion carries Giga Drain on this set, it can come in more freely early-game to check threats. This will also help when Virizion attempts to sweep, as the continuous recovery will keep Virizion out of revenge killing range from the likes of Choice Scarf Tyrantrum and Choice Scarf Flygon. While Focus Blast is the strongest move on this set, Virizion should only use it when absolutely necessary; its accuracy is shaky at best, and a miss against the wrong target could result in a premature end to Virizion's sweep. Keep Hidden Power Ice unrevealed until the opponent sends out a Grass- or Flying-type. You should seek out setup opportunities late-game against bulky Water- and Ground-types to send Virizion in to sweep the rest of the opposing team.

Team Options
========

Fire-types can cause this set problems; Delphox, in particular, is the biggest issue, as Virizion is slower and lacks Rock-type coverage. Houndoom is a notable teammate, being immune to both of Delphox's STAB options. Slowking, Alomomola, Diancie, and Tyrantrum are capable of handling most other Fire-types reliably. Meloetta, Manectric, and Aggron generally fare well against many common defensive cores in RU, thus weakening opposing teams for Virizion. Entry hazard support is useful to wear down Fire-types quicker. Rhyperior and Stone Edge Mega Steelix can set up Stealth Rock and reliably beat Fletchinder; they also tend to lure in Water-types that Virizion can use as setup fodder late-game. Qwilfish and Garbodor can set up Spikes and tend to draw attention from Ground-types; the former also lures in Electric-types quite often. Virizion has no chance of sweeping if Fletchinder is left on the opposing team, so make sure you have Pokemon that can remove it reliably. Aggron, Tyrantrum, and Diancie fit the bill well, as do Rhyperior and Stone Edge Mega Steelix.

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

Virizion's movepool is fairly shallow, but it does have a couple of other options to consider. It has access to Taunt and Synthesis to create a bit of a stallbreaker set, but this tends to waste Virizion's amazing offensive potential. Sacred Sword could be used over Close Combat if the defense drops are really bothersome for you, but the power drop is very significant and thus the move is generally not worth it. Substitute and Hidden Power Fire are possible options on the Calm Mind set; however, Substitute means Virizion is walled by virtually any Pokemon that resists its STAB combination, while Hidden Power Fire really only hits Escavalier and requires an imperfect Speed IV.

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

**Amoonguss**: With Regenerator, a 4x Grass resistance, a Fighting resistance, and a super effective STAB Sludge Bomb, Virizion loses to Amoonguss unless it packs Zen Headbutt on the Swords Dance set. Beware of boosted Hidden Power Ices from the Calm Mind set, (AC) though.

**Revenge Killers**: Faster Pokemon, especially physically offensive ones, can usually keep Virizion's damage to a minimum. Aerial Ace Aerodactyl and Aerial Ace Dugtrio easily beat it, while Durant needs little prior damage. Choice Scarf variants of Emboar and Medicham can also work well due to their super effective STAB moves. Mega Abomasnow, Sneasal, Mega Glalie, and Abomasnow all have Ice Shard to pick off Virizion after some chip damage or Close Combat defense drops.

**Poison-types**: Besides Amoonguss, Venusaur, Weezing, and Garbodor are notable Poison-types that can deal with Virizion. They resist both of its STAB types and only fear Zen Headbutt from the Swords Dance variant. Venusaur needs to be careful of boosted Hidden Power Ice from the Calm Mind set, however.

**Psychic-types**: Sigilyph, Delphox, and Xatu resist both of Virizion's STAB types, but they need to be careful of Stone Edge. Delphox cleanly beats Calm Mind variants. Sigilph and Xatu have a 4x resistance to Fighting, but they can be beaten by Hidden Power Ice from the Calm Mind set.

**Fletchinder**: Fletchinder has a 4x resistance to Grass and resists Fighting as well. Gale Wings Acrobatics ensures a Virizion sweep ends on the spot. A stray Stone Edge will instantly KO Fletchinder, though.

**Togetic**: Stone Edge and Hidden Power Ice hurt, but Togetic can switch into any of Virizion's STAB moves. It can cripple Calm Mind sets with paralysis and wear down Swords Dance variants with Dazzling Gleam or Flamethrower.

**Granbull**: Granbull has Intimidate to soften hits from Swords Dance sets and can use STAB Play Rough to OHKO Virizion. If it's at maximum HP, Granbull can take a +1 Giga Drain from Calm Mind sets and KO Virizion back in emergency situations.
 
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This isn't an official GP check, but Delphox only has 104 base Speed while Virizion has base 108 speed IIRC, therefore only Scarf variants of Delphox can outspeed it. In the Team Options section of the Calm Mind set, I'd change the phrasing of the first sentence to something among these lines:

Add
Remove

"Fire-types can cause this set problems; Delphox, in particular, is the biggest issue, as Virizion is slower and lacks Rock-type coverage and gets outpaced by Choice Scarf variants."
 
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