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Doubles Zapdos
- Thread starter SpaceBass
- Start date
Some suggestions:
Overview:
- Its offensive movepool is not necessarily "limited"; its three attacks give it pretty decent coverage, and Thunderbolt alone is enough for a tanky set like Tailwind.
- I know Lolk said not to boast its Speed tier, but I would at least mention that its Speed is definitely a boon for any Pokemon trying to perform Zapdos's role, as it allows Zapdos to naturally outspeed a whole bunch of threats, granting it automatic speed over the important base 70s.
Set:
grammar touch, spaces between words and / please ;-; (move 3)
Read this:
I think 252 HP / 144 SpA / 112 Spe Modest would be a better spread than the one listed. This is an extremely minor nitpick, however, so whether you should bother or not is up to the QC members. Here are the differences:
- Extra SpA gives you a significant leg up on a lot of OHKOs; for instance, you can actually OHKO Zard Y now. Generally, Zapdos's average OHKO chance rises by about 15-20%. Examples are against Breloom, Azumarill, Garchomp, Keldeo, and more that I don't find necessary to search for.
- At the cost of minor SpD that, tbh, doesn't even make a difference. Who even uses Mega Abomasnow?? And if you do face one, any amount of prior hail damage while easily make that extra SpD useless. But again, who even uses Mega Abomasnow??
- Kyu-B is the more significant opponent, but I don't think 252+ as popular enough (at least right now) to warrant the extra SpD. PS usage sucks but it's never totally off, and it shows that: 252 Modest: is only used 4.773% of the time. That's probably going to rise now that Mence is gone and sub set can be more popular but even still, Zappy doesn't really have any business staying in against Kyu-B anyway. If you stay in to set up the Tailwind and it subs up instead, you've put yourself in a terrible position, with a near useless Zapdos to face a Kyu-B behind a sub.
Tagging Lolk and BLOOD TOTEM
Usage Tips:
- Remove Light Screen mention since it's no longer on the set
- Heat Wave OHKOs Breloom sometimes so you shouldn't be hitting it with HP Ice anyway
- Not sure if good vs Rain is applicable now that Mega Swamp can be used
Team Options:
- Don't put Mega Mawile; it really doesn't belong under Tailwind. It needs significant Speed investment even under Tailwind to become close to being fast; 252 Spe barely even outpaces 252+ base 100s. Mawile is better off in TR. Also, Mawile is not as great of an offensive threat anyway now that Mence is gone.
- Team Options should really focus more on pairing Zapdos with something that can immediately benefit it as opposed to finding teammates that can patch up holes it will leave within a team. Therefore, when you mention Fire / Ground-types, talk instead about how they can immediately be useful to Zapdos in the field. For instance, Fire-types beat Ice and Ground beats Rock while Zappy beats Water for both of them. The vs Steels mention is kind of awkward and irrelevant.
Checks & Counters:
- Add Mega Diancie to Offensive type advantage, 252+ easily OHKOs with Diamond Storm
- Leave Swamp in Defensive type advantage; offensive type advantage is for Pokemon that don't necessarily have to take a hit but instead can KO Zapdos first because their STABs are super effective
Overview:
- Its offensive movepool is not necessarily "limited"; its three attacks give it pretty decent coverage, and Thunderbolt alone is enough for a tanky set like Tailwind.
- I know Lolk said not to boast its Speed tier, but I would at least mention that its Speed is definitely a boon for any Pokemon trying to perform Zapdos's role, as it allows Zapdos to naturally outspeed a whole bunch of threats, granting it automatic speed over the important base 70s.
Set:
grammar touch, spaces between words and / please ;-; (move 3)
Read this:
I think 252 HP / 144 SpA / 112 Spe Modest would be a better spread than the one listed. This is an extremely minor nitpick, however, so whether you should bother or not is up to the QC members. Here are the differences:
- Extra SpA gives you a significant leg up on a lot of OHKOs; for instance, you can actually OHKO Zard Y now. Generally, Zapdos's average OHKO chance rises by about 15-20%. Examples are against Breloom, Azumarill, Garchomp, Keldeo, and more that I don't find necessary to search for.
- At the cost of minor SpD that, tbh, doesn't even make a difference. Who even uses Mega Abomasnow?? And if you do face one, any amount of prior hail damage while easily make that extra SpD useless. But again, who even uses Mega Abomasnow??
- Kyu-B is the more significant opponent, but I don't think 252+ as popular enough (at least right now) to warrant the extra SpD. PS usage sucks but it's never totally off, and it shows that: 252 Modest: is only used 4.773% of the time. That's probably going to rise now that Mence is gone and sub set can be more popular but even still, Zappy doesn't really have any business staying in against Kyu-B anyway. If you stay in to set up the Tailwind and it subs up instead, you've put yourself in a terrible position, with a near useless Zapdos to face a Kyu-B behind a sub.
Tagging Lolk and BLOOD TOTEM
Usage Tips:
- Remove Light Screen mention since it's no longer on the set
- Heat Wave OHKOs Breloom sometimes so you shouldn't be hitting it with HP Ice anyway
- Not sure if good vs Rain is applicable now that Mega Swamp can be used
Team Options:
- Don't put Mega Mawile; it really doesn't belong under Tailwind. It needs significant Speed investment even under Tailwind to become close to being fast; 252 Spe barely even outpaces 252+ base 100s. Mawile is better off in TR. Also, Mawile is not as great of an offensive threat anyway now that Mence is gone.
- Team Options should really focus more on pairing Zapdos with something that can immediately benefit it as opposed to finding teammates that can patch up holes it will leave within a team. Therefore, when you mention Fire / Ground-types, talk instead about how they can immediately be useful to Zapdos in the field. For instance, Fire-types beat Ice and Ground beats Rock while Zappy beats Water for both of them. The vs Steels mention is kind of awkward and irrelevant.
Checks & Counters:
- Add Mega Diancie to Offensive type advantage, 252+ easily OHKOs with Diamond Storm
- Leave Swamp in Defensive type advantage; offensive type advantage is for Pokemon that don't necessarily have to take a hit but instead can KO Zapdos first because their STABs are super effective
Lolk am I making the changes to the set that Electrolyte suggested? They make sense but I wanted to make sure first.
Made the changes mentioned in Elyte's post, tagging Lolk and Darkmalice
I don't think either of these actually say much of anything.
It's bulkier than you are selling it here. Reword it somehow.
The second one is kinda duh... It's partially invested, Modest, and has 125 SpA. And you say it's hitting Water types...
Just say that it hits harder (and is faster) than Suicune or Togekiss, the other common "bulky" Tailwind users of Dubs. It's a middle ground between those bulky TW users and the offensive ones like Hydreigon or Talonflame. It's kinda team-specific as a result.
in OO add Choice Scarf, which I actually have seen used, next to Choice Specs, which I haven't but DM vouched for. Choiced Electric attacks in general are kinda bad, but it's a passable set and I guess qualifies for OO. Reasons why they can be worth it: Scarf is neat for surprise fast HP Ices on Landoge, who will often try to U-turn Out, and (either scarf or specs) Zapdos can do its own pivoting with Volt Switch.
in Checks and Counters, "Mega Diancie can easily OHKO with Diamond Storm." is false. 208 Atk Mega Diancie Diamond Storm vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Zapdos: 320-378 (83.3 - 98.4%), but the spirit of it is right. Just add in "with a small amount of chip damage." Also add Rhyperior next to Manectric in Lightningrod mons.
Change this stuff (it's a lot more minor than it looks like from the pile of words I wrote here) and
2/3
- Doesn't work well as a switch in unless you can predict a Ground move or not very effective attack, as it needs its bulk intact against faster threats to achieve its goal
- Despite being bulky, it hits surprisingly hard against bulky water types
It's bulkier than you are selling it here. Reword it somehow.
The second one is kinda duh... It's partially invested, Modest, and has 125 SpA. And you say it's hitting Water types...
Just say that it hits harder (and is faster) than Suicune or Togekiss, the other common "bulky" Tailwind users of Dubs. It's a middle ground between those bulky TW users and the offensive ones like Hydreigon or Talonflame. It's kinda team-specific as a result.
in OO add Choice Scarf, which I actually have seen used, next to Choice Specs, which I haven't but DM vouched for. Choiced Electric attacks in general are kinda bad, but it's a passable set and I guess qualifies for OO. Reasons why they can be worth it: Scarf is neat for surprise fast HP Ices on Landoge, who will often try to U-turn Out, and (either scarf or specs) Zapdos can do its own pivoting with Volt Switch.
in Checks and Counters, "Mega Diancie can easily OHKO with Diamond Storm." is false. 208 Atk Mega Diancie Diamond Storm vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Zapdos: 320-378 (83.3 - 98.4%), but the spirit of it is right. Just add in "with a small amount of chip damage." Also add Rhyperior next to Manectric in Lightningrod mons.
Change this stuff (it's a lot more minor than it looks like from the pile of words I wrote here) and
2/3
Overview
This area is a bit messy atm, it should just read ''252 HP EVs make sure Zapdos will always live a Mega Kangaskhan Double Edge, and allows Zapdos to always live 3 Adamant Landorus T Rock Slides thanks to its Sitrus Berry. The 112 Speed EVs lets Zapdos always outspeed Jolly Breloom so it can Tailwind before it gets put to sleep by Spore, and out speeds even Timid Mega Sceptile once Tailwind is up. The remaining EVs are put into Special Attack with a Modest nature to allow Zapdos to hit hard once it sets up Tailwind. Sitrus Berry allows Zapdos more freedom to switch into things to take advantage of its bulk.'' - There's no need to talk about items not listed on the set until the Other Options section
Speaking of the Other Options section, you appear to have put it in the wrong place it should be the last section before Checks and Counters but you have it bellow Set Details untagged :>
I took safety goggles out because it's kinda bad on zapdos imo, just copy paste this one in the right place and remove yours (I also added swagger because it's rly good on Zapdos as VGC showed)
Other Options
========
Thunder Wave is available if you want a more permanent solution to a fast threat, although Tailwind allows your team to benefit immediately. The Life orb / Choice Scarf / Choice Specs variants can use Hidden Power Flying as a way to hit Fighting Types, as well as still hitting Amoonguss and Mega Venusaur, although this will mean forgoing Hidden Power Ice. Discharge is an option when paired with Ground Types / Lightning Rod users. Volt Switch allows Zapdos to switch out and bring in something to better take advantage of Tailwind, and should be carried on the choice locked variants. Swagger gives Zapdos an option to potentially avoid taking hits against threats that it's coverage doesn't extend to.
Checks and Counters is fine.
A few notes to end, it's your first analysis so obv it wont be flawless, mine were just as bad. There are a few basic Smogon grammar rules that you haven't applied which is to be expected for a first piece of work. Rules such as adding a hyphen between Grass and type for example are things you'll pick up as you do more work, pay attention to what you've done wrong when GP do their check so you can do it better next time and make sure it speeds up the process.
not stamping just yet as I'd like to see it looking as fly as possible before it goes through
- as under Tailwind it out speeds almost the entire un-boosted metagame. <-- it outspeeds all the unboosted meta o,o faster than even deo-s
- Remove the line break, keep it all as one paragraph
- remove the mention of non AV escav and just have Breloom + MSciz since AV is standard on escav
- With TWind say something about making slower teammates more threatening
This area is a bit messy atm, it should just read ''252 HP EVs make sure Zapdos will always live a Mega Kangaskhan Double Edge, and allows Zapdos to always live 3 Adamant Landorus T Rock Slides thanks to its Sitrus Berry. The 112 Speed EVs lets Zapdos always outspeed Jolly Breloom so it can Tailwind before it gets put to sleep by Spore, and out speeds even Timid Mega Sceptile once Tailwind is up. The remaining EVs are put into Special Attack with a Modest nature to allow Zapdos to hit hard once it sets up Tailwind. Sitrus Berry allows Zapdos more freedom to switch into things to take advantage of its bulk.'' - There's no need to talk about items not listed on the set until the Other Options section
Speaking of the Other Options section, you appear to have put it in the wrong place it should be the last section before Checks and Counters but you have it bellow Set Details untagged :>
I took safety goggles out because it's kinda bad on zapdos imo, just copy paste this one in the right place and remove yours (I also added swagger because it's rly good on Zapdos as VGC showed)
Other Options
========
Thunder Wave is available if you want a more permanent solution to a fast threat, although Tailwind allows your team to benefit immediately. The Life orb / Choice Scarf / Choice Specs variants can use Hidden Power Flying as a way to hit Fighting Types, as well as still hitting Amoonguss and Mega Venusaur, although this will mean forgoing Hidden Power Ice. Discharge is an option when paired with Ground Types / Lightning Rod users. Volt Switch allows Zapdos to switch out and bring in something to better take advantage of Tailwind, and should be carried on the choice locked variants. Swagger gives Zapdos an option to potentially avoid taking hits against threats that it's coverage doesn't extend to.
Checks and Counters is fine.
A few notes to end, it's your first analysis so obv it wont be flawless, mine were just as bad. There are a few basic Smogon grammar rules that you haven't applied which is to be expected for a first piece of work. Rules such as adding a hyphen between Grass and type for example are things you'll pick up as you do more work, pay attention to what you've done wrong when GP do their check so you can do it better next time and make sure it speeds up the process.
not stamping just yet as I'd like to see it looking as fly as possible before it goes through
Added everything in BLOOD TOTEM's post
Just noticed this, but living Double Edge from Mega Kangaskhan actually is less impressive than it looks, since Sitrus Berry activates between hits. Tons of things can live even an Adamant Double Edge this way (albeit barely).
There may be a better benchmark for its bulk to use here. Jolly Fake Out + Return perhaps?
Also the 3HKO from rock slide doesn't mean you can switch in on scarf landoge because the second one will invariably flinch hue hue
There may be a better benchmark for its bulk to use here. Jolly Fake Out + Return perhaps?
Also the 3HKO from rock slide doesn't mean you can switch in on scarf landoge because the second one will invariably flinch hue hue
It's not that important, but yes it lives lol. Given sitrus berry, yes Zapdos will live. It needs to do 125% combined.
252 Atk Parental Bond Mega Kangaskhan Fake Out vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Zapdos: 109-130 (28.3 - 33.8%)
252 Atk Parental Bond Mega Kangaskhan Return vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Zapdos: 279-330 (72.6 - 85.9%)
Anyway I see that you wrote it up. I actually could give the 3/3 under our new rules but I don't feel like it :p
BLOOD TOTEM or Lolk, one of y'all do it.
252 Atk Parental Bond Mega Kangaskhan Fake Out vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Zapdos: 109-130 (28.3 - 33.8%)
252 Atk Parental Bond Mega Kangaskhan Return vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Zapdos: 279-330 (72.6 - 85.9%)
Anyway I see that you wrote it up. I actually could give the 3/3 under our new rules but I don't feel like it :p
BLOOD TOTEM or Lolk, one of y'all do it.
^ matching Sayaka av n_n
Add or Corrections / Remove / Comments
1/2
Add or Corrections / Remove / Comments
Overview
########
Zapdos has an excellent typing for the Doubles metagame, with only 2 weaknesses complimented by great defensive stats. It also has a respectable 125 base 125 Special Attack. Its main competition in Doubles comes from both Thundurus, Incarnate forme for support and Therian forme for attacking. However, (AC) The advantage Zapdos has over these two, (RC) is greater bulk and access to the move Tailwind. Its movepool is enough for it fulfill its role effectively, (RC) as well as allowing and allow for several different viable sets. Its great Speed tier is especially useful as a Tailwind user, as under Tailwind it Zapdos outspeeds the entire unboosted metagame.
Bulky Tailwind
########
name: Bulky Tailwind
move 1: Thunderbolt
move 2: Hidden Power Ice
move 3: Heat Wave / Protect
move 4: Tailwind
ability: Pressure
item: Sitrus Berry
evs: 252 HP / 144 SpA / 112 Spe
nature: Modest
Moves
========
Thunderbolt is Zapdos's (change curly quotes to normal ones ') main STAB move, hitting Water-types such as like Politoed, Suicune, (AC) and Jellicent, and Flying-types such as like Talonflame, Togekiss, (AC) and Mega Charizard Y super effectively. Hidden Power Ice hits Ground and Grass-types that are immune to or / resist Thunderbolt, such as Landorus T and Shaymin-S. Protect is for preventing damage for a turn, which will allow a partner to remove a threat to Zapdos, (RC) or weaken it to within a KO range. An option to use over Protect is Heat Wave, as it allows Zapdos a chance to OHKO Pokemon such as things like Breloom and Mega Scizor. Tailwind is used to provide your team with doubled Speed for four 4 turns, allowing you to go on the offensive and gain some momentum by making your slower Pokemon more threatening.
Set Details
========
252 HP EVs make sure Zapdos will always live three Rock Slides from Adamant Landorus-T thanks to Sitrus Berry and a Double Edge from a Mega Kangaskhan Double Edge, (RC) and allows Zapdos to always live 3 Adamant Landorus T Rock Slides thanks to its Sitrus Berry. The 112 Speed EVs let Zapdos always outspeed Jolly Breloom so it can Tailwind before it gets put to sleep by Spore, and out speeds even Timid Mega Sceptile once Tailwind is up. The remaining EVs are put into Special Attack with a Modest nature to allow Zapdos to hit hard once it sets up Tailwind. Sitrus Berry allows Zapdos more freedom to switch in on Pokemon and to things to take advantage of its bulk.
Usage Tips
========
This set makes for a great lead, as having a Tailwind set up by turn two can dramatically swing the game in your favor. Its bulk paired with a great typing allows Zapdos to switch in on a majority of Pokemon things, (RC) and scare them out, buying turns for a chance to set up multiple Tailwinds throughout a game. The bulk also means Zapdos can be switched out and brought back out later. The Special Attack investment gives Zapdos great offensive presence, making sure that it and can continue being useful after Tailwind is set.
Team Options
========
Pokemon with already-present bulk or middling Speed tiers such as like Mega Kangaskhan and Mega Heracross make for great partners, as Tailwind allows them to become much harder to deal with. Pokemon Things that can provide Fake Out support pair well as it gives Zapdos more freedom when setting up Tailwind. Mega Kangaskhan fits this role well, whereas Scrafty and Hitmontop bring Intimidate alongside Fake Out to aid Zapdos's bulk. Fire- and Ground-types are a good choice, as they handle Ice- and Rock-types respectively, while Zapdos beats the Water-types that would give them issues. Ground-types such as Garchomp and Excadrill appreciate being able to use Earthquake freely while Zapdos is on the field. Breloom with a Focus Sash makes for an awesome partner, as it can protect while Zapdos sets up Tailwind and provide fast Spore support.
Other Options
========
Other options include using a Life Orb to increase damage output, as it guarantees and KOs on Pokemon such as Breloom, Ferrothorn, (AC) and Mega Scizor. Choice Specs has a similar effect, but limits the option of Tailwind. A Choice Scarf variant with an EV spread of 252 HP / 72 SpA / 184 Spe and a Modest nature can be used to counter Pokemon such as Choice things like Scarf Landorus-T; (comma -> semi) the given spread ensures that you outspeed an EV spread of 252 HP / 72 SpA / 184 Spe with a Modest nature should be used to ensure you out speed the most common variant. The Life Orb, (AC) / Choice Scarf, (AC) and / Choice Specs variants can use Hidden Power Flying as a way to hit Fighting-types, as well as still hitting Amoonguss and Mega Venusaur, although this will mean forgoing Hidden Power Ice. Roost is an option to give Zapdos some more longevity throughout the game. Thunder Wave is available if you want a more permanent solution to a fast threat, although Tailwind allows your team to benefit immediately. Discharge is an option when paired with Ground-types or / Lightning Rod users. Volt Switch should be carried on the Choice item variants and allows Zapdos to switch out and bring in a Pokemon that can something to better take better advantage of Tailwind, (RC) and should be carried on the choice locked variants. Swagger gives Zapdos an option to potentially avoid taking hits against threats that its coverage doesn't extend to.
Checks & Counters
########
**Offensive Type Advantage**: Kyurem-B resists Thunderbolt, (RC) and takes little from both Hidden Power Ice and Heat Wave. Mamoswine and Tyranitar take little damage from Zapdos's attacks and can cause considerable damage with their stabs STAB moves. Terrakion can outspeed and cause massive damage to Zapdos with its STAB Rock Slide. Mega Diancie comes very close to a OHKO with Diamond Storm, (RC) and is able to KO knock Zapdos out if it has received a small amount of chip damage.
**Defensive Type Advantage**: Rotom-H is a large problem for Zapdos, as it resists Electric, Fire and Ice, leaving Zapdos waiting for a Thunderbolt or an Overheat. Mega Venusaur is a problem as well because it resists to damage, resisting Thunderbolt and thanks to Thick Fat, takes taking neutral damage from Hidden Power Ice and Heat Wave, and is being able to use Leech Seed and heal back any damage Zapdos inflicts what damage you may do. Latios can tank a Hidden Power Ice and hit back hard with Draco Meteor. Mega Swampert is immune to Thunderbolt, neutral to HP Hidden Power Ice, and resists Heat Wave. It is also bulky enough to survive over three Hidden Power 3+ HP Ices and can hit back hard with an Ice Punch or a rain-boosted Waterfall. Mega Camerupt is also immune to Thunderbolt, neutral to HP Hidden Power Ice, (AC) and resists Heat Wave. Sheer Force Heat Waves hit Zapdos hard, (AC) and Camerupt usually carries Hidden Power HP Ice. Mega Swampert is immune to Thunderbolt, neutral to HP Ice, and resists Heat Wave. It can hit back hard with an Ice Punch or a rain boosted Waterfall.
**Speed Control**: Trick Room is an issue for Zapdos and teams based on Tailwind. Cresselia can easily stand up to any of Zapdos's attacks and set up Trick Room. Other bulky Trick Room setters such as Aromatisse, Eviolite Porygon 2, Reuniclus, (AC) and Dusclops can take a Thunderbolt with ease and use Trick Room. (period)
**Bulky Attackers**: Zapdos is threatened by Pokemon that can take hits well and still hit back hard, (AC) such as include; Mega Kangaskhan, Hydreigon, Mega Gardevoir, Ludicolo, Sylveon, Scrafty, (AC) Mega Latias, (AC) and Conkeldurr. (comma -> period) All of these Pokemon which have access to either super effective coverage, (RC) or incredibly hard-hitting neutral stabs STAB moves. Mega Latias can also stand up to Zapdos' attacks and hit back very hard.
**Utility**: Taunt will prevent Zapdos from getting its setting up Tailwind up, wasting a turn. Most Taunt users are faster than Zapdos too, (AC) so be careful. Prankster Taunt from Thundurus or Whimsicott is also something to look out for. Thundurus I is an example of this, Whimsicott being another. Lightning Rod users such as like Manetric and Rhyperior can redirect Zapdos's Thunderbolt and get use it for a Special Attack boost.
########
Zapdos has an excellent typing for the Doubles metagame, with only 2 weaknesses complimented by great defensive stats. It also has a respectable 125 base 125 Special Attack. Its main competition in Doubles comes from both Thundurus, Incarnate forme for support and Therian forme for attacking. However, (AC) The advantage Zapdos has over these two, (RC) is greater bulk and access to the move Tailwind. Its movepool is enough for it fulfill its role effectively, (RC) as well as allowing and allow for several different viable sets. Its great Speed tier is especially useful as a Tailwind user, as under Tailwind it Zapdos outspeeds the entire unboosted metagame.
Bulky Tailwind
########
name: Bulky Tailwind
move 1: Thunderbolt
move 2: Hidden Power Ice
move 3: Heat Wave / Protect
move 4: Tailwind
ability: Pressure
item: Sitrus Berry
evs: 252 HP / 144 SpA / 112 Spe
nature: Modest
Moves
========
Thunderbolt is Zapdos's (change curly quotes to normal ones ') main STAB move, hitting Water-types such as like Politoed, Suicune, (AC) and Jellicent, and Flying-types such as like Talonflame, Togekiss, (AC) and Mega Charizard Y super effectively. Hidden Power Ice hits Ground and Grass-types that are immune to or / resist Thunderbolt, such as Landorus T and Shaymin-S. Protect is for preventing damage for a turn, which will allow a partner to remove a threat to Zapdos, (RC) or weaken it to within a KO range. An option to use over Protect is Heat Wave, as it allows Zapdos a chance to OHKO Pokemon such as things like Breloom and Mega Scizor. Tailwind is used to provide your team with doubled Speed for four 4 turns, allowing you to go on the offensive and gain some momentum by making your slower Pokemon more threatening.
Set Details
========
252 HP EVs make sure Zapdos will always live three Rock Slides from Adamant Landorus-T thanks to Sitrus Berry and a Double Edge from a Mega Kangaskhan Double Edge, (RC) and allows Zapdos to always live 3 Adamant Landorus T Rock Slides thanks to its Sitrus Berry. The 112 Speed EVs let Zapdos always outspeed Jolly Breloom so it can Tailwind before it gets put to sleep by Spore, and out speeds even Timid Mega Sceptile once Tailwind is up. The remaining EVs are put into Special Attack with a Modest nature to allow Zapdos to hit hard once it sets up Tailwind. Sitrus Berry allows Zapdos more freedom to switch in on Pokemon and to things to take advantage of its bulk.
Usage Tips
========
This set makes for a great lead, as having a Tailwind set up by turn two can dramatically swing the game in your favor. Its bulk paired with a great typing allows Zapdos to switch in on a majority of Pokemon things, (RC) and scare them out, buying turns for a chance to set up multiple Tailwinds throughout a game. The bulk also means Zapdos can be switched out and brought back out later. The Special Attack investment gives Zapdos great offensive presence, making sure that it and can continue being useful after Tailwind is set.
Team Options
========
Pokemon with already-present bulk or middling Speed tiers such as like Mega Kangaskhan and Mega Heracross make for great partners, as Tailwind allows them to become much harder to deal with. Pokemon Things that can provide Fake Out support pair well as it gives Zapdos more freedom when setting up Tailwind. Mega Kangaskhan fits this role well, whereas Scrafty and Hitmontop bring Intimidate alongside Fake Out to aid Zapdos's bulk. Fire- and Ground-types are a good choice, as they handle Ice- and Rock-types respectively, while Zapdos beats the Water-types that would give them issues. Ground-types such as Garchomp and Excadrill appreciate being able to use Earthquake freely while Zapdos is on the field. Breloom with a Focus Sash makes for an awesome partner, as it can protect while Zapdos sets up Tailwind and provide fast Spore support.
Other Options
========
Other options include using a Life Orb to increase damage output, as it guarantees and KOs on Pokemon such as Breloom, Ferrothorn, (AC) and Mega Scizor. Choice Specs has a similar effect, but limits the option of Tailwind. A Choice Scarf variant with an EV spread of 252 HP / 72 SpA / 184 Spe and a Modest nature can be used to counter Pokemon such as Choice things like Scarf Landorus-T; (comma -> semi) the given spread ensures that you outspeed an EV spread of 252 HP / 72 SpA / 184 Spe with a Modest nature should be used to ensure you out speed the most common variant. The Life Orb, (AC) / Choice Scarf, (AC) and / Choice Specs variants can use Hidden Power Flying as a way to hit Fighting-types, as well as still hitting Amoonguss and Mega Venusaur, although this will mean forgoing Hidden Power Ice. Roost is an option to give Zapdos some more longevity throughout the game. Thunder Wave is available if you want a more permanent solution to a fast threat, although Tailwind allows your team to benefit immediately. Discharge is an option when paired with Ground-types or / Lightning Rod users. Volt Switch should be carried on the Choice item variants and allows Zapdos to switch out and bring in a Pokemon that can something to better take better advantage of Tailwind, (RC) and should be carried on the choice locked variants. Swagger gives Zapdos an option to potentially avoid taking hits against threats that its coverage doesn't extend to.
Checks & Counters
########
**Offensive Type Advantage**: Kyurem-B resists Thunderbolt, (RC) and takes little from both Hidden Power Ice and Heat Wave. Mamoswine and Tyranitar take little damage from Zapdos's attacks and can cause considerable damage with their stabs STAB moves. Terrakion can outspeed and cause massive damage to Zapdos with its STAB Rock Slide. Mega Diancie comes very close to a OHKO with Diamond Storm, (RC) and is able to KO knock Zapdos out if it has received a small amount of chip damage.
**Defensive Type Advantage**: Rotom-H is a large problem for Zapdos, as it resists Electric, Fire and Ice, leaving Zapdos waiting for a Thunderbolt or an Overheat. Mega Venusaur is a problem as well because it resists to damage, resisting Thunderbolt and thanks to Thick Fat, takes taking neutral damage from Hidden Power Ice and Heat Wave, and is being able to use Leech Seed and heal back any damage Zapdos inflicts what damage you may do. Latios can tank a Hidden Power Ice and hit back hard with Draco Meteor. Mega Swampert is immune to Thunderbolt, neutral to HP Hidden Power Ice, and resists Heat Wave. It is also bulky enough to survive over three Hidden Power 3+ HP Ices and can hit back hard with an Ice Punch or a rain-boosted Waterfall. Mega Camerupt is also immune to Thunderbolt, neutral to HP Hidden Power Ice, (AC) and resists Heat Wave. Sheer Force Heat Waves hit Zapdos hard, (AC) and Camerupt usually carries Hidden Power HP Ice. Mega Swampert is immune to Thunderbolt, neutral to HP Ice, and resists Heat Wave. It can hit back hard with an Ice Punch or a rain boosted Waterfall.
**Speed Control**: Trick Room is an issue for Zapdos and teams based on Tailwind. Cresselia can easily stand up to any of Zapdos's attacks and set up Trick Room. Other bulky Trick Room setters such as Aromatisse, Eviolite Porygon 2, Reuniclus, (AC) and Dusclops can take a Thunderbolt with ease and use Trick Room. (period)
**Bulky Attackers**: Zapdos is threatened by Pokemon that can take hits well and still hit back hard, (AC) such as include; Mega Kangaskhan, Hydreigon, Mega Gardevoir, Ludicolo, Sylveon, Scrafty, (AC) Mega Latias, (AC) and Conkeldurr. (comma -> period) All of these Pokemon which have access to either super effective coverage, (RC) or incredibly hard-hitting neutral stabs STAB moves. Mega Latias can also stand up to Zapdos' attacks and hit back very hard.
**Utility**: Taunt will prevent Zapdos from getting its setting up Tailwind up, wasting a turn. Most Taunt users are faster than Zapdos too, (AC) so be careful. Prankster Taunt from Thundurus or Whimsicott is also something to look out for. Thundurus I is an example of this, Whimsicott being another. Lightning Rod users such as like Manetric and Rhyperior can redirect Zapdos's Thunderbolt and get use it for a Special Attack boost.
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yay 2/2
Overview
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Zapdos has an excellent typing for the Doubles metagame, with only2 two weaknesses, (comma) complimented by great defensive stats. It also has a respectable base 125 Special Attack. Its main competition in Doubles comes from both Thundurus formes:, Incarnate forme for support and Therian forme for attacking. (space) However, Zapdos has greater bulk and access to the move Tailwind. Its movepool is enough for it to fulfill its role effectively, (remove comma) and allows for several different viable sets. Its great Speed tier is especially useful for its role as a Tailwind user, as under Tailwind Zapdos outspeeds the entire unboosted metagame.
Bulky Tailwind
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name: Bulky Tailwind
move 1: Thunderbolt
move 2: Hidden Power Ice
move 3: Heat Wave / Protect
move 4: Tailwind
ability: Pressure
item: Sitrus Berry
evs: 252 HP / 144 SpA / 112 Spe
nature: Modest
Moves
========
Thunderbolt is Zapdos's main STAB move, hitting Water-types such aslike Politoed, Suicune, and Jellicent, (remove comma) and Flying-types such as Talonflame, Togekiss, and Mega Charizard Y super effectively. Hidden Power Ice hits Ground- (add dash) and Grass-types that which are immune to or resist Thunderbolt, such as Landorus-T and Shaymin-S. Protect is for preventing damage for a turn, which will allow a partner to remove a threat to Zapdos or weaken it to within a KO range. An option to use over Protect is Heat Wave, as it allows Zapdos a chance to OHKO Pokemon such as Breloom and Mega Scizor. Tailwind is used to provide your team with doubled Speed for four turns, allowing you to go on the offensive and gain some momentum by making your slower Pokemon more threatening.
Set Details
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252 HP EVs and a Sitrus Berry make sure Zapdos will alwayslive survive three Rock Slides from Adamant Landorus-T thanks to Sitrus Berry and a Double-Edge from Mega Kangaskhan. The 112 Speed EVs let (space) Zapdos always outspeed Jolly Breloom so it can Tailwind before it gets put to sleep by Spore, and even Timid Mega Sceptile once Tailwind is up. The remaining EVs are put into Special Attack with a Modest nature to allow Zapdos to hit hard once it sets up Tailwind. Sitrus Berry allows Zapdos more freedom to switch in on Pokemon and take advantage of its bulk.
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Usage Tips
========
This set makes for a great lead, as having a Tailwind set up by turn two can dramatically swing the game in your favor. Its bulk paired with a great typing allows Zapdos to switch in on a majority of Pokemon and scare them out, buying turns for a chance to set up multiple Tailwinds throughouta the game. The bulk also means Zapdos can be switched out and brought back out in later. The Special Attack investment gives Zapdos great offensive presence, making sure that it can continue being useful after Tailwind is set.
Team Options
========
Pokemon with already-present bulk or middling Speed tiers, (comma) such as Mega Kangaskhan and Mega Heracross, (comma) make for great partners, as Tailwind allows them to become much harder to deal with. Pokemon that can provide Fake Out support pair well with Zapdos, as Fake Out gives itas it gives Zapdos more freedom when setting up Tailwind. Mega Kangaskhan fits this role well, whereas Scrafty and Hitmontop bring Intimidate (space) alongside Fake Out to aid Zapdos's bulk. Fire- and Ground-types are a good choice, as they handle Ice- (space) and Rock-types, (comma) respectively, while Zapdos beats the Water-types that would give them issues. Ground-types such as Garchomp and Excadrill appreciate being able to use Earthquake freely while Zapdos is on the field. Breloom with a Focus Sash makes for an awesome partner, as it can Protect while Zapdos sets up Tailwind and provide fast Spore support.
Other Options
========
Other options include using a Life Orb to increase damage output, as it guarantees KOs on Pokemon such as Breloom, Ferrothorn, and Mega Scizor. Choice Specs has a similar effect, (remove comma) but limits removes the option of Tailwind. A Choice Scarf variant with an EV spread of 252 HP / 72 SpA / 184 Spe and a Modest nature can be used to counter Pokemon such as Choice Scarf Landorus-T; the given spread ensures that Zapdos outspeeds you outspeed the most common variant. The Life Orb, Choice Scarf, and Choice Specs variants can use Hidden Power Flying as a way to hit Fighting-types, as well as still hitting Amoonguss and Mega Venusaur, although this will mean forgoing Hidden Power Ice. Roost is an option to give Zapdos some more longevity throughout the game. Thunder Wave is available if you want a more permanent solution to a fast threat, although Tailwind allows your team to benefit immediately. Discharge is an option when paired with Ground-types or Lightning Rod users. Volt Switch should be carried on the Choice item variants and allows Zapdos to switch out and bring in a Pokemon that can take better advantage of Tailwind (just making sure, the Tailwind was set up by another teammate right? since Zapdos is Choiced and using Volt Switch? or is something else going on). Swagger gives Zapdos an option to potentially avoid taking hits from against threats that its coverage doesn't extend to.
Checks & Counters
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**Offensive Type Advantage**: Kyurem-B resists Thunderbolt and takes little from both Hidden Power Ice and Heat Wave. Mamoswine and Tyranitar take little damage from Zapdos's attacks and can cause considerable damage with their STAB moves. Terrakion can outspeed and cause massive damage to Zapdos with its STAB Rock Slide. Mega Diancie comes very close to a OHKO with Diamond Storm, (remove comma) and is able to KO Zapdos if it has received a small amount of chip damage.
**Defensive Type Advantage**: Rotom-H is a large problem for Zapdos, as it resists Electric, Fire, (comma) and Ice. Mega Venusaur is a problem as well because it resists Thunderbolt, (comma)and thanks to Thick Fat, takes neutral damage from Hidden Power Ice and Heat Wave thanks to Thick Fat, and is able to use Leech Seed and to heal back any damage Zapdos inflicts. Latios can tank a Hidden Power Ice and hit back hard with Draco Meteor. Mega Swampert and Mega Camerupt are is immune to Thunderbolt, neutral to HP Hidden Power Ice, and resist Heat Wave. It The former is also bulky enough to survive over three Hidden Power Ices and can hit back hard with an Ice Punch or a rain-boosted Waterfall. Mega Camerupt is also immune to Thunderbolt, neutral to Hidden Power Ice, and resists Heat Wave. Sheer Force Heat Waves The latter can hit Zapdos hard with Sheer Force-boosted Heat Waves, and Camerupt usually carries Hidden Power Ice as well.
**Speed Control**: Trick Room is an issue for Zapdos and teams based on Tailwind. Cresselia can easily stand up to any of Zapdos's attacks and set up Trick Room. Other bulky Trick Room setters such as Aromatisse, Eviolite Porygon2, Reuniclus, and Dusclops can take a Thunderbolt with ease and use Trick Room.
**Bulky Attackers**: Zapdos is threatened by Pokemon that can take hits well and still hit back hard, such as Mega Kangaskhan, Hydreigon, Mega Gardevoir, Ludicolo, Sylveon, Scrafty, Mega Latias, and Conkeldurr. All of these Pokemon have access to either super effective coverage or incredibly hard-hitting neutral STAB moves.
**Utility**: Taunt will prevent Zapdos from setting up Tailwind, wasting a turn. Most Taunt users are faster than Zapdos too, so be careful. Prankster Taunt from Thundurus or Whimsicott is also something to look out for. Lightning Rod users such as Manectric and Rhyperior can redirect Zapdos's Thunderbolt and get a Special Attack boost.
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Zapdos has an excellent typing for the Doubles metagame, with only
Bulky Tailwind
########
name: Bulky Tailwind
move 1: Thunderbolt
move 2: Hidden Power Ice
move 3: Heat Wave / Protect
move 4: Tailwind
ability: Pressure
item: Sitrus Berry
evs: 252 HP / 144 SpA / 112 Spe
nature: Modest
Moves
========
Thunderbolt is Zapdos's main STAB move, hitting Water-types such as
Set Details
========
252 HP EVs and a Sitrus Berry make sure Zapdos will always
(just one blank line)
Usage Tips
========
This set makes for a great lead, as having a Tailwind set up by turn two can dramatically swing the game in your favor. Its bulk paired with a great typing allows Zapdos to switch in on a majority of Pokemon and scare them out, buying turns for a chance to set up multiple Tailwinds throughout
Team Options
========
Pokemon with already-present bulk or middling Speed tiers, (comma) such as Mega Kangaskhan and Mega Heracross, (comma) make for great partners, as Tailwind allows them to become much harder to deal with. Pokemon that can provide Fake Out support pair well with Zapdos, as Fake Out gives it
Other Options
========
Other options include using a Life Orb to increase damage output, as it guarantees KOs on Pokemon such as Breloom, Ferrothorn, and Mega Scizor. Choice Specs has a similar effect
Checks & Counters
########
**Offensive Type Advantage**: Kyurem-B resists Thunderbolt and takes little from both Hidden Power Ice and Heat Wave. Mamoswine and Tyranitar take little damage from Zapdos's attacks and can cause considerable damage with their STAB moves. Terrakion can outspeed and cause massive damage to Zapdos with its STAB Rock Slide. Mega Diancie comes very close to a OHKO with Diamond Storm
**Defensive Type Advantage**: Rotom-H is a large problem for Zapdos, as it resists Electric, Fire, (comma) and Ice. Mega Venusaur is a problem as well because it resists Thunderbolt, (comma)
**Speed Control**: Trick Room is an issue for Zapdos and teams based on Tailwind. Cresselia can easily stand up to any of Zapdos's attacks and set up Trick Room. Other bulky Trick Room setters such as Aromatisse, Eviolite Porygon2, Reuniclus, and Dusclops can take a Thunderbolt with ease and use Trick Room.
**Bulky Attackers**: Zapdos is threatened by Pokemon that can take hits well and still hit back hard, such as Mega Kangaskhan, Hydreigon, Mega Gardevoir, Ludicolo, Sylveon, Scrafty, Mega Latias, and Conkeldurr. All of these Pokemon have access to either super effective coverage or incredibly hard-hitting neutral STAB moves.
**Utility**: Taunt will prevent Zapdos from setting up Tailwind, wasting a turn. Most Taunt users are faster than Zapdos too, so be careful. Prankster Taunt from Thundurus or Whimsicott is also something to look out for. Lightning Rod users such as Manectric and Rhyperior can redirect Zapdos's Thunderbolt and get a Special Attack boost.
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