Month: December 2020

Raichu Analysis for VGC 2021

“If it stores too much electricity, its behavior turns aggressive. To avoid this, it occasionally discharges excess energy and calms itself down.”

OVERVIEW

There are multiple Pokemon ahead of Raichu in the pecking order of Electric Type Pokemon, like Regieleki, Zapdos, Heat Rotom, and Thundurus Incarnate. However, the Mouse Pokemon is still highly valuable in VGC 2021, thanks to Lightningrod. The instant nullification of any (single target) Electric Type move is a great asset to have. Raichu is the fastest candidate in VGC 2021, granting important outspeeds against the likes of Charizard, Zapdos, and Rotom. Its kit might not be the most impressive, but can still work wonders on the right team.

SAMPLE SETS

Raichu @ Focus Sash
Ability: Lightning Rod
Level: 50
Timid Nature
– Charm / Eerie Impulse / Encore / Tickle
– Fake Out
– Nuzzle / Brutal Swing / Electroweb
– Volt Switch

Speed Benchmarks:

180+ Spe EVs -> Outspeed Charizard and Zapdos by 1
252+ Spe EVs -> Outspeed Alolan Ninetales and Kartana by 1

Defensive Benchmarks:

-2 252 Atk Kartana Max Overgrowth vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Raichu: 114-135 (83.8 – 99.2%) — guaranteed 2HKO
-2 252 Atk Landorus-Therian Earthquake vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Raichu: 110-132 (80.8 – 97%) — guaranteed 2HKO
-2 252+ Atk Glastrier High Horsepower vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Raichu: 104-124 (76.4 – 91.1%) — guaranteed 2HKO

#

-2 252+ SpA Heatran Earth Power vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Raichu: 68-82 (50 – 60.2%) — guaranteed 2HKO
-2 252 SpA Moltres-Galar Max Darkness vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Raichu: 57-67 (41.9 – 49.2%) — guaranteed 3HKO

A Raichu set that is as standard as it gets. Fake Out and Volt Switch are the staples, offering invaluable disruption and pivot support. Eerie Impulse has quickly risen in popularity as a replacement to Protect, though players can always opt to run Charm, Encore, or even Tickle in its stead. Likewise, Nuzzle can be dropped for Brutal Swing (to trigger Weakness Policy on an allied Metagross), or Electroweb for another measure of Speed control.

TEAMMATES

Gyarados

Gyarados comes in with Intimidate, which works wonders at helping Raichu survive certain Physical hits, and STAB Waterfall to deal with opposing Ground Type Pokemon. Besides the very obviously instrumental Lightningrod support, Raichu’s Fake out is also pivotal in granting Gyarados the breathing space to set up Dragon Dance. Gyarados’ immunity to Ground Type moves sees it serve as a fantastic switch in on an incoming Earthquake and/or Max Quake.

Galarian Moltres

Galarian Moltres’ synergy with Raichu is nearly identical to that of Gyarados’, but with an additional element. The Malevolent Pokemon isn’t as weak to Electric Type moves, meaning that players can actually use Volt Switch to trigger its held Weakness Policy. Fake Out buys Galarian Moltres the turn needed to set up Nasty Plot, in the event that players expect the opponent to play defensively, or if players are not running the Weakness Policy.

Celesteela

Celesteela appreciates Raichu helping to eliminate one of its only two Type Weaknesses, which allows it to function much better as a defensive stalwart. This is then supported by either Charm or Eerie Impulse, further reducing the likelihood of the foe brute forcing through the Ultra Beast.

CHECKS & COUNTERS

Entei / Raikou

The Legendary Beasts’ Inner Focus sees them shrug off Fake Out, which usually leads to them successfully setting up their partnered Metagross that will then flatten the Mouse Pokemon. Entei is the more troublesome of the two, thanks to STAB Sacred Fire. Raikou does rely on its coverage options to hit Raichu, though in actual play it usually has a partner to alleviate this concern.

Ferrothorn

Ferrothorn punishes Raichu’s Fake Out with Iron Barbs, if players ever have the need to do so to the Thorn Pod Pokemon. It also doesn’t mind being afflicted by Paralysis or a Speed drop, since it is already very slow and Gyro Ball gets to deal more damage to more Pokemon. Since Raichu is often paired with a Water Type Pokemon, Ferrothorn can become very scary to the Mouse Pokemon’s partner as Lightningrod is unable to redirect Grass Type moves, which leads to either a Protect or switch out that the opponent can predict into.

Landorus Therian

Landorus Therian doesn’t really mind Fake Out or Encore, and is immune to Raichu’s STAB. STAB Earthquake is usually enough to OHKO Raichu unless it has been hindered by Intimidate, but it is still a solid 2HKO and will deal sizeable damage to any Pokemon on the switch that does not resist or is outright immune to Ground Type moves.

Sceptile Analysis for VGC 2021

“In the jungle, its power is without equal. This Pokémon carefully grows trees and plants. It regulates its body temperature by basking in sunlight.”

OVERVIEW

Out of all the fully evolved Hoenn starters, Sceptile is probably the worst hit by the shift to Generation VIII. Losing its Mega Evolution really hurts, considering the sheer viability of Regieleki, as well as the loss of one STAB option.

Its move pool is also rather awkward. Despite being largely classified as a Special striker, Sceptile’s Special move selection is rather lacklustre, with only the likes of Dragon Pulse and Focus Blast as notable coverage options. It does have much more options on the Physical side, but it honestly ain’t going to be that impressive off Sceptile’s mediocre Base Attack of 85.

Considering the wealth of better Grass Type alternatives out there, like Venusaur, Kartana, and Rillaboom, Sceptile is firmly relegated to niche category. Its niches are rather interesting though, even if it requires careful play to pull off consistently.

SAMPLE SETS

Sceptile @ Weakness Policy
Ability: Unburden
Level: 50
Modest Nature / Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
– Dragon Pulse
– Focus Blast / Round
– Frenzy Plant / Grass Pledge / Leaf Storm
– Protect

Speed Benchmarks:

156 Spe EVs -> Outspeed Choice Scarf Dragapult by 1 after Unburden

Damage Benchmarks:

+2 108 SpA Sceptile Focus Blast vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Heatran: 198-234 (100 – 118.1%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 132 SpA Sceptile Frenzy Plant vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Tornadus in Grassy Terrain: 156-183 (100.6 – 118%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 164 SpA Sceptile Frenzy Plant vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Assault Vest Landorus-Therian: 165-195 (100 – 118.1%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 172 SpA Sceptile Frenzy Plant vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Torkoal in Grassy Terrain: 177-209 (100 – 118%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 204 SpA Sceptile Focus Blast vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Glastrier: 208-246 (100.4 – 118.8%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 228 SpA Sceptile Frenzy Plant vs. 164 HP / 228+ SpD Grimmsnarl-Gmax: 192-226 (100.5 – 118.3%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 252 SpA Sceptile Focus Blast vs. 244 HP / 148+ SpD Incineroar: 202-238 (100.4 – 118.4%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 252 SpA Sceptile Frenzy Plant vs. 236 HP / 12 SpD Dynamax Tapu Fini: 350-414 (100 – 118.2%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 252 SpA Sceptile Focus Blast vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Dynamax Urshifu-Gmax: 350-412 (100 – 117.7%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 252 SpA Sceptile Focus Blast vs. 4 HP / 164 SpD Assault Vest Dynamax Kartana: 262-310 (97 – 114.8%) — 81.3% chance to OHKO
+2 252 SpA Sceptile Frenzy Plant vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Nihilego: 177-208 (95.6 – 112.4%) — 68.8% chance to OHKO
+2 252 SpA Sceptile Frenzy Plant vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Zapdos in Grassy Terrain: 156-184 (93.9 – 110.8%) — 62.5% chance to OHKO
+2 252 SpA Sceptile Frenzy Plant vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Rillaboom-Gmax in Grassy Terrain: 189-223 (91.3 – 107.7%) — 50% chance to OHKO
+2 164 SpA Sceptile Max Knuckle vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Assault Vest Dynamax Kartana: 268-316 (100 – 117.9%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 252 SpA Sceptile Max Wyrmwind vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Dynamax Dragapult: 324-382 (98.7 – 116.4%) — 93.8% chance to OHKO
+2 252 SpA Sceptile Max Knuckle vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Heatran: 178-210 (89.8 – 106%) — 37.5% chance to OHKO

#

+2 156+ SpA Sceptile Max Wyrmwind vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Tornadus: 155-183 (100 – 118%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 156+ SpA Sceptile Max Wyrmwind vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Dynamax Dragapult: 328-386 (100 – 117.6%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 172+ SpA Sceptile Focus Blast vs. 4 HP / 164 SpD Assault Vest Dynamax Kartana: 270-318 (100 – 117.7%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 212+ SpA Sceptile Frenzy Plant vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Zapdos in Grassy Terrain: 166-196 (100 – 118%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 252+ SpA Sceptile Frenzy Plant vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Rillaboom-Gmax in Grassy Terrain: 207-244 (100 – 117.8%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 252+ SpA Sceptile Max Wyrmwind vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Zapdos: 153-180 (92.1 – 108.4%) — 50% chance to OHKO

Weakness Policy grants Sceptile the boost it needs to match the high levels of firepower on display in VGC 2021. This set takes the Special route to make full use of Dynamax, therefore Frenzy Plant earns its spot as Sceptile’s main STAB option.

Running Special Sceptile also opens up the avenue for move order support. This would usually manifest in the form of Grass Pledge or Round. Grass Pledge can be used in tandem with either Fire Pledge or Water Pledge to achieve different effects. The first option combines to become a 150 Base Power Fire Type move that sets up G Max Wildfire’s passive damage effect. The latter, on the other hand, combines to become a 150 Base Power Grass Type move that quarters the foes’ Speed for 4 turns.

There is also Round, whose main beneficiaries are Pixilate Sylveon and Liquid Voice Primarina. These middling Speed Pokemon not only benefit from the elevated move order, but also the power doubling of Round. Sylveon’s Pixilate gives the team a better answer to Dark Type and/or Dragon Type foes. Primarina, on the other hand, appreciates having a reliable counterpart to Hydro Pump.

Sceptile @ Salac Berry / Grassy Seed / Electric Seed
Ability: Unburden
Level: 50
Adamant Nature / Jolly Nature
– Acrobatics / Screech
– Detect / Screech
– Fling / Screech / Drain Punch / Breaking Swipe
– Leaf Blade / Grassy Glide

Defensive Benchmarks:

252+ Atk Landorus-Therian Max Airstream vs. +1 28 HP / 0 Def Dynamax Sceptile: 252-296 (84.5 – 99.3%) — guaranteed 2HKO

A Physically oriented Sceptile, though this variant leans more heavily to being a supportive presence than a destructive one. The main selling point here is Fling, which is capable of starting a powerful chain reaction. For example, Sceptile can fling a Salac Berry onto Swoobat and give it a +2 boost to its Speed thanks to Simple. Since Fling is a Dark Type move, it also triggers Weakness Policy on the Courting Pokemon. It can also be used as a makeshift trigger for Justified, granting a Speed and Attack boost simultaneously.

Salac Berry isn’t the only way to run Fling. There is also Light Ball to inflict Paralysis, Flame Orb to inflict Burn, and King’s Rock to inflict flinch. The latter is particularly useful at delaying unwanted setup for one turn, like Trick Room. Light Ball’s Paralysis is also useful in the era of dynamic move ordering, which would benefit Sceptile’s ally. Thanks to Unburden, Sceptile can then outspeed even Choice Scarf holding foes to land a Screech.

Players who aren’t particularly interested in Fling can opt to run a Terrain Seed instead. Rillaboom’s Grassy Surge enables Grassy Glide on Sceptile, while giving it a boost to the Forest Pokemon’s sole STAB. Tapu Koko is probably a slightly better fit for overall coverage, since it can handle the Flying Type threats like Galarian Moltres and Celesteela. Sceptile can then return the favor through Screech.

Sceptile @ Focus Sash / Weakness Policy
Ability: Unburden
Level: 50
Adamant Nature / Jolly Nature
– Detect
– Drain Punch
– Leaf Blade / Solar Blade / Grassy Glide
– Rock Slide / Earthquake / Acrobatics / Thunder Punch

Damage Benchmarks:

+2 92 Atk Sceptile Leaf Blade vs. 236 HP / 4 Def Tapu Fini: 176-210 (100.5 – 120%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 172 Atk Sceptile Acrobatics (110 BP) vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Urshifu-Gmax: 176-208 (100.5 – 118.8%) — guaranteed OHKO
+1 180 Atk Sceptile Acrobatics (110 BP) vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Venusaur-Gmax: 156-184 (100.6 – 118.7%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 252 Atk Sceptile Acrobatics (110 BP) vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Rillaboom-Gmax: 206-244 (99.5 – 117.8%) — 93.8% chance to OHKO
+1 252 Atk Sceptile Leaf Blade vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Regieleki: 148-175 (94.8 – 112.1%) — 75% chance to OHKO
+2 52 Atk Sceptile Max Overgrowth (130 BP) vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Regieleki through Reflect: 157-185 (100.6 – 118.5%) — guaranteed OHKO
+1 108 Atk Sceptile Max Knuckle vs. 244 HP / 84 Def Incineroar: 102-120 (50.7 – 59.7%) — guaranteed 2HKO
+1 148 Atk Sceptile Max Rockfall vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Moltres-Galar: 166-196 (100 – 118%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 132 Atk Sceptile Max Overgrowth (130 BP) vs. 236 HP / 4 Def Tapu Fini through Reflect: 176-208 (100.5 – 118.8%) — guaranteed OHKO
+1 172 Atk Sceptile Max Overgrowth (130 BP) vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Landorus-Therian in Grassy Terrain: 165-195 (100 – 118.1%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 172 Atk Sceptile Max Quake vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Shuca Berry Heatran: 198-234 (100 – 118.1%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 172 Atk Sceptile Max Overgrowth (130 BP) vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Nihilego through Reflect: 185-218 (100 – 117.8%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 236 Atk Sceptile Max Rockfall vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Zapdos through Reflect: 168-199 (101.2 – 119.8%) — guaranteed OHKO
+1 244 Atk Sceptile Max Rockfall vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Rotom-Heat: 158-186 (100.6 – 118.4%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 252 Atk Sceptile Max Lightning vs. 244 HP / 92 Def Celesteela: 200-236 (98.5 – 116.2%) — 87.5% chance to OHKO
+2 252 Atk Sceptile Max Quake vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Metagross: 180-212 (96.2 – 113.3%) — 75% chance to OHKO
+2 252 Atk Sceptile Max Rockfall vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Dynamax Thundurus: 298-352 (96.1 – 113.5%) — 75% chance to OHKO
+2 252 Atk Sceptile Max Knuckle vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Kartana: 124-146 (92.5 – 108.9%) — 56.3% chance to OHKO

#

+2 164+ Atk Sceptile Grassy Glide vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Regieleki: 156-184 (100 – 117.9%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 164+ Atk Sceptile Acrobatics (110 BP) vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Rillaboom-Gmax: 208-246 (100.4 – 118.8%) — guaranteed OHKO
+1 196+ Atk Sceptile Leaf Blade vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Regieleki: 156-184 (100 – 117.9%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 180+ Atk Sceptile Max Lightning vs. 244 HP / 92 Def Celesteela: 204-240 (100.4 – 118.2%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 196+ Atk Sceptile Max Quake vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Metagross: 188-222 (100.5 – 118.7%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 196+ Atk Sceptile Max Rockfall vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Dynamax Thundurus: 310-366 (100 – 118%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 204 Atk Sceptile Max Overgrowth (130 BP) vs. 164 HP / 116 Def Grimmsnarl-Gmax: 192-226 (100.5 – 118.3%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 228+ Atk Sceptile Max Knuckle vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Kartana: 134-158 (100 – 117.9%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 252+ Atk Sceptile Max Overgrowth (140 BP) vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Glastrier in Grassy Terrain: 205-243 (99 – 117.3%) — 93.8% chance to OHKO
+1 252+ Atk Sceptile Max Overgrowth (140 BP) vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Landorus-Therian: 162-192 (98.1 – 116.3%) — 93.8% chance to OHKO
+2 252+ Atk Sceptile Max Knuckle vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Urshifu-Gmax: 170-202 (97.1 – 115.4%) — 81.3% chance to OHKO
+2 252+ Atk Sceptile Max Darkness vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Dynamax Dragapult: 308-364 (93.9 – 110.9%) — 62.5% chance to OHKO
+1 252+ Atk Sceptile Max Overgrowth (130 BP) vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Landorus-Therian: 151-178 (91.5 – 107.8%) — 50% chance to OHKO

The Physical version of the Weakness Policy set, though it can be altered to fit a Focus Sash setup through Swords Dance. Regardless of the means, the premise of the set is the same. Get to a +2 in Attack and have Unburden triggered to start sweeping.

The wide plethora of moves that Sceptile gets on the Physical spectrum means that it is actually spoilt for choice in terms of coverage picks. However, the main option recommended here is Rock Slide. This is simply because it deals super effective damage to Fire, Flying, Ice, and Bug Type Pokemon, which is almost all of the Type threats to Sceptile (only exception is Poison Type Pokemon). Rock Slide can be used to fish for flinch RNG, while also serving as a decent damage outlet as Max Rockfall.

The next best coverage options are Drain Punch and Earthquake, mainly for their Max Move benefits. Drain Punch is also a decent way to provide some recovery. Lastly, players can consider Acrobatics or Thunder Punch to deal with specific matchups. This would largely refer to Rillaboom and Celesteela respectively.

TEAMMATES

Heatran

Heatran is either immune to or resists whatever Sceptile is weak to, making it a great switch in for the Forest Pokemon. Its STAB combination is extremely crucial at managing resistant threats like Metagross, Celesteela, and Glastrier. In return, Sceptile helps to eliminate bulky Water Type foes like Tapu Fini, or support with plays like Fling, Endeavor, and Breaking Swipe.

Talonflame

In VGC 2021, Talonflame’s main utility to Sceptile lies in Will O Wisp and Taunt. Since it is not a Prankster Pokemon, Talonflame can “safely” Will O Wisp into troublesome Physical threats like Metagross, Landorus Therian, Single Strike Urshifu, and Glastrier, to cripple them. Taunt, on the other hand, is fantastic at denying Trick Room. Talonflame’s STAB combination works wonders against Grass Type adversaries like Venusaur and Rillaboom, or troublesome Steel Type walls like Metagross, Ferrothorn, and Celesteela. Through Gale Wings, Talonflame can alo be used as a makeshift trigger of Weakness Policy on Sceptile.

Dragapult

Dragapult is naturally faster than Sceptile and can utilize U Turn to trigger the Forest Pokemon’s Weakness Policy. It does so with aplomb, since it is immune to Fake Out. The play also allows players to bring in a better positioned ally to aid Sceptile in sweping the board. On the flip side, Sceptile can also be played in the supportive role. Screech is fantastic at improving the damage output of Physical Dragapult, while Sceptile’s STAB is useful at eliminating threats like Tapu Fini.

CHECKS & COUNTERS

Metagross

Dynamax allows Metagross to survive a +2 Max Quake from Sceptile, trigger its Weakness Policy, then OHKO in return with a +2 Max Hailstorm. There isn’t much else Sceptile can do to stop the Iron Leg Pokemon.

Celesteela

If Sceptile isn’t carrying the uncommon Thunder Punch, it will struggle against Celesteela, who can easily soak up the rest of Sceptile’s arsenal. While Sceptile is immune to Leech Seed, it does not like taking a lick from Celesteela, especially if it is an incoming Flying Type move.

Glastrier

Like Metagross, Glastrier is bulky enough to take a +2 attack from Sceptile thanks to Dynamax, then retaliate with +2 Max Hailstorm. What sets Glastrier apart from Metagross is its association with Trick Room. As an Unburden Pokemon, Trick Room spells doom for Sceptile, since the Speed advantage offered, its biggest selling point in VGC 2021, is now flipped.

Blaziken Analysis for VGC 2021

“It learns martial arts that use punches and kicks. Every several years, its old feathers burn off, and new, supple feathers grow back in their place.”

OVERVIEW

On paper, Blaziken is chock full of highly valuable features in VGC 2021. Fire Type STAB puts it in good stead against the likes of Metagross and Glastrier, as well as Grass Type behemoths like Venusaur, Kartana, and Rillaboom. As a Fire Type Pokemon, it is naturally immune to Burns, which is great at reducing the number of ways that foes can limit Blaziken’s Physical damage output.

The combination of Max Knuckle and Speed Boost is another extremely enviable asset, something that can only be emulated conditionally through Max Airstream plus Moxie or Speed Boost. Both of Blaziken’s offensive Base Stats are above 100, which means that players can actually run it as a Special striker if they intend to avoid Intimidate. However, it does come at the cost of a weaker Fighting Type output, and Blaziken no longer directly benefits from Max Knuckle.

As such, it is not uncommon to see Blaziken piloted in an offensive role. Players would do well to support it and let it sweep with its amazing firepower.

SAMPLE SETS

Blaziken @ Life Orb
Ability: Speed Boost
Level: 50
Adamant Nature / Jolly Nature
– Close Combat / Brick Break
– Detect
– Flare Blitz
– Thunder Punch / Stone Edge

Speed Benchmarks:

220 Spe EVs -> Outspeed Naganadel by 2 after 1x Speed Boost
172+ Spe EVs -> Outspeed Tapu Koko by 1 after 1x Speed Boost
236+ Spe EVs -> Outspeed Dragapult by 1 after 1x Speed Boost

Damage Benchmarks:

-1 0 Atk Life Orb Blaziken Flare Blitz vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Whimsicott: 156-187 (114.7 – 137.5%) — guaranteed OHKO
0 Atk Life Orb Blaziken Close Combat vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Heatran: 198-234 (100 – 118.1%) — guaranteed OHKO
132 Atk Life Orb Blaziken Max Rockfall vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Rotom-Heat: 159-187 (101.2 – 119.1%) — guaranteed OHKO
132 Atk Life Orb Blaziken Flare Blitz vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Metagross: 187-221 (100 – 118.1%) — guaranteed OHKO
148 Atk Life Orb Blaziken Flare Blitz vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Tornadus: 156-185 (100.6 – 119.3%) — guaranteed OHKO
+1 228 Atk Life Orb Blaziken Close Combat vs. 244 HP / 252+ Def Eviolite Porygon2: 195-229 (102 – 119.8%) — guaranteed OHKO
228 Atk Life Orb Blaziken Max Flare vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Celesteela: 205-244 (100.4 – 119.6%) — guaranteed OHKO
-1 252 Atk Life Orb Blaziken Flare Blitz vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Dynamax Kartana: 265-317 (98.8 – 118.2%) — 93.8% chance to OHKO
252 Atk Life Orb Blaziken Flare Blitz vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Glastrier: 203-242 (98 – 116.9%) — 81.3% chance to OHKO
252 Atk Life Orb Blaziken Close Combat vs. 244 HP / 0 Def Eviolite Porygon2: 187-221 (97.9 – 115.7%) — 81.3% chance to OHKO
-1 252 Atk Life Orb Blaziken Flare Blitz vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Rillaboom-Gmax: 182-218 (87.9 – 105.3%) — 25% chance to OHKO
-1 68 Atk Life Orb Blaziken Max Flare vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Dynamax Kartana: 270-328 (100.7 – 122.3%) — guaranteed OHKO
84 Atk Life Orb Blaziken Max Flare vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Glastrier: 211-250 (101.9 – 120.7%) — guaranteed OHKO
100 Atk Life Orb Blaziken Max Knuckle vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Urshifu-Gmax: 179-213 (102.2 – 121.7%) — guaranteed OHKO
124 Atk Life Orb Blaziken Max Flare vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Dynamax Venusaur-Gmax: 312-369 (100.6 – 119%) — guaranteed OHKO
-1 212 Atk Life Orb Blaziken Max Flare vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Rillaboom-Gmax: 211-250 (101.9 – 120.7%) — guaranteed OHKO
212 Atk Life Orb Blaziken Max Flare vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Rillaboom-Gmax through Reflect: 208-246 (100.4 – 118.8%) — guaranteed OHKO
212 Atk Life Orb Blaziken Max Lightning vs. 212 HP / 4 Def Moltres-Galar: 192-229 (100 – 119.2%) — guaranteed OHKO
244 Atk Life Orb Blaziken Max Flare vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Zapdos: 168-199 (101.2 – 119.8%) — guaranteed OHKO
252 Atk Life Orb Blaziken Max Knuckle vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Heatran: 195-229 (98.4 – 115.6%) — 87.5% chance to OHKO
252 Atk Life Orb Blaziken Max Lightning vs. 236 HP / 4 Def Tapu Fini: 161-192 (92 – 109.7%) — 56.3% chance to OHKO
252 Atk Life Orb Blaziken Max Flare vs. 164 HP / 116 Def Grimmsnarl-Gmax: 175-208 (91.6 – 108.9%) — 56.3% chance to OHKO

#

-1 140+ Atk Life Orb Blaziken Flare Blitz vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Dynamax Kartana: 270-328 (100.7 – 122.3%) — guaranteed OHKO
164+ Atk Life Orb Blaziken Flare Blitz vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Glastrier: 211-250 (101.9 – 120.7%) — guaranteed OHKO
-1 252+ Atk Life Orb Blaziken Flare Blitz vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Rillaboom-Gmax: 203-242 (98 – 116.9%) — 81.3% chance to OHKO
252+ Atk Life Orb Blaziken Flare Blitz vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Celesteela: 198-234 (97 – 114.7%) — 75% chance to OHKO
156+ Atk Life Orb Blaziken Max Knuckle vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Heatran: 198-234 (100 – 118.1%) — guaranteed OHKO
196+ Atk Life Orb Blaziken Max Flare vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Dynamax Metagross in Sun: 374-445 (100 – 118.9%) — guaranteed OHKO
236+ Atk Life Orb Blaziken Max Lightning vs. 236 HP / 4 Def Tapu Fini: 177-208 (101.1 – 118.8%) — guaranteed OHKO
236+ Atk Life Orb Blaziken Max Flare vs. 164 HP / 116 Def Grimmsnarl-Gmax: 192-227 (100.5 – 118.8%) — guaranteed OHKO
252+ Atk Life Orb Blaziken Max Flare vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Dynamax Glastrier in Sun: 390-460 (94.2 – 111.1%) — 62.5% chance to OHKO

Defensive Benchmarks:

252 Atk Urshifu-Gmax Close Combat vs. 60 HP / 0 Def Blaziken: 136-162 (83.4 – 99.3%) — guaranteed 2HKO
252+ Atk Glastrier Max Quake vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Dynamax Blaziken: 236-278 (75.6 – 89.1%) — guaranteed 2HKO
252+ Atk Metagross Max Quake vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Dynamax Blaziken: 224-264 (71.7 – 84.6%) — guaranteed 2HKO

#

252+ SpA Life Orb Venusaur-Gmax Max Quake vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Dynamax Blaziken: 237-281 (75.9 – 90%) — guaranteed 2HKO

Bog standard Blaziken set. Life Orb is the default pick for Hold Item, as it gives Blaziken the power boost needed to start securing KOs. The recoil can become rather hefty when used in tandem with Flare Blitz. Fortunately, Generation VIII sees Blaziken able to use Max Flare and not incur the move recoil.

Close Combat, while having slightly less Base Power than Hi Jump Kick, takes the slot reserved for Blaziken’s Fighting Type STAB. A comparatively more reliable Fighting Type option that allows Blaziken to repeatedly use is something the Blaze Pokemon has been crying out for over a decade. Now that it finally got its wish, Blaziken is arguably better off not risking the miss and crash damage.

In terms of coverage, Thunder Punch is by far the more popular option. Using it as Max Lightning allows Blaziken to take on Tapu Fini, while denying Sleep shenanigans. However, players who want to have better overall coverage might want to consider Stone Edge. This gives Blaziken a much better matchup against Alolan Marowak and Heat Rotom, while ensuring at least neutral damage against the available metagame.

Blaziken @ Adrenaline Orb / Life Orb
Ability: Speed Boost
Level: 50
Modest Nature / Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
– Aura Sphere / Scorching Sands
– Blast Burn
– Detect
– Solar Beam

Damage Benchmarks:

0 SpA Blaziken Blast Burn vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Assault Vest Dynamax Kartana in Rain: 280-336 (104.4 – 125.3%) — guaranteed OHKO

0 SpA Blaziken Blast Burn vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Whimsicott through Light Screen: 156-184 (114.7 – 135.2%) — guaranteed OHKO

0 SpA Blaziken Blast Burn vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Regieleki: 157-186 (100.6 – 119.2%) — guaranteed OHKO

108 SpA Blaziken Blast Burn vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Zapdos in Sun: 168-198 (101.2 – 119.2%) — guaranteed OHKO

124 SpA Blaziken Blast Burn vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Assault Vest Landorus-Therian: 84-99 (50.9 – 60%) — guaranteed 2HKO

132 SpA Blaziken Blast Burn vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Dynamax Venusaur-Gmax in Sun: 312-368 (100.6 – 118.7%) — guaranteed OHKO

180 SpA Blaziken Aura Sphere vs. 244 HP / 148+ SpD Incineroar: 102-120 (50.7 – 59.7%) — guaranteed 2HKO

180 SpA Blaziken Blast Burn vs. 164 HP / 228+ SpD Grimmsnarl-Gmax: 96-114 (50.2 – 59.6%) — guaranteed 2HKO

212 SpA Blaziken Aura Sphere vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Urshifu-Gmax: 176-210 (100.5 – 120%) — guaranteed OHKO

244 SpA Blaziken Blast Burn vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Glastrier: 210-248 (101.4 – 119.8%) — guaranteed OHKO

252 SpA Blaziken Blast Burn vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Assault Vest Rillaboom-Gmax: 204-240 (98.5 – 115.9%) — 81.3% chance to OHKO

252 SpA Blaziken Blast Burn vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Dynamax Metagross in Sun: 372-440 (99.4 – 117.6%) — 93.8% chance to OHKO

#

172+ SpA Blaziken Blast Burn vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Assault Vest Rillaboom-Gmax: 210-248 (101.4 – 119.8%) — guaranteed OHKO

252+ SpA Blaziken Blast Burn vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Tornadus: 151-178 (97.4 – 114.8%) — 81.3% chance to OHKO

252+ SpA Blaziken Blast Burn vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Moltres-Galar in Sun: 157-186 (94.5 – 112%) — 68.8% chance to OHKO

#

84 SpA Life Orb Blaziken Blast Burn vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Tornadus: 156-185 (100.6 – 119.3%) — guaranteed OHKO

156 SpA Life Orb Blaziken Blast Burn vs. 244 HP / 228+ SpD Celesteela: 203-242 (100 – 119.2%) — guaranteed OHKO

212 SpA Life Orb Blaziken Blast Burn vs. 164 HP / 228+ SpD Grimmsnarl-Gmax in Sun: 192-227 (100.5 – 118.8%) — guaranteed OHKO

244 SpA Life Orb Blaziken Focus Blast vs. 244 HP / 148+ SpD Incineroar: 203-242 (100.9 – 120.3%) — guaranteed OHKO

252 SpA Life Orb Blaziken Blast Burn vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Dynamax Glastrier in Sun: 408-484 (98.5 – 116.9%) — 87.5% chance to OHKO

#

132+ SpA Life Orb Blaziken Focus Blast vs. 244 HP / 148+ SpD Incineroar: 203-242 (100.9 – 120.3%) — guaranteed OHKO

148+ SpA Life Orb Blaziken Blast Burn vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Dynamax Glastrier in Sun: 416-491 (100.4 – 118.5%) — guaranteed OHKO

252+ SpA Life Orb Blaziken Blast Burn vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Dynamax Tornadus in Sun: 294-347 (94.8 – 111.9%) — 68.8% chance to OHKO

252+ SpA Life Orb Blaziken Max Knuckle vs. 252 HP / 4 SpD Heatran: 187-221 (94.4 – 111.6%) — 68.8% chance to OHKO

252+ SpA Life Orb Blaziken Max Overgrowth vs. 236 HP / 12 SpD Tapu Fini: 161-192 (92 – 109.7%) — 56.3% chance to OHKO

This set trades firepower for better performances against Intimidate. As a result, more investment is necessary to retain the KOs on most opposition. Players could run the default Life Orb, or go unorthodox and slap on the Adrenaline Orb instead. This would allow Blaziken to net the immediate outspeed against Landorus Therian to nuke its partner.

Despite requiring a recharge turn after use, Blast Burn is the preferred Fire Type STAB pick. This is to maximize the Base Power of Max Flare, since Blaziken is most likely going to Dynamax. Players could also use Blast Burn as a last hurrah, nuking a foe before parting in grace for its replacement.

Aura Sphere is the base option for Special Blaziken’s Fighting Type STAB. While it does modest damage, it is accurate, as compared to Focus Blast. The filler slot goes to Solar Beam, which becomes Blaziken’s main way of dealing with Water Type foes. The Sun that Blaziken sets up with Max Flare also helps enable Solar Beam, which increases its viability.

Blaziken @ Focus Sash
Ability: Speed Boost
Level: 50
Jolly Nature / Adamant Nature
– Close Combat
– Detect
– Flare Blitz / Blaze Kick
– Swords Dance

Damage Benchmarks:

+2 0 Atk Blaziken Flare Blitz vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Zapdos: 180-213 (108.4 – 128.3%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 60 Atk Blaziken Close Combat vs. 252 HP / 4 Def Rotom-Heat: 157-186 (100 – 118.4%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 92 Atk Blaziken Flare Blitz vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Dynamax Glastrier in Sun: 414-488 (100 – 117.8%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 116 Atk Blaziken Close Combat vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Dynamax Urshifu-Gmax: 350-414 (100 – 118.2%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 172 Atk Blaziken Flare Blitz vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Dynamax Regieleki: 313-369 (100.3 – 118.2%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 188 Atk Blaziken Close Combat vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Eviolite Porygon2: 192-228 (100 – 118.7%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 220 Atk Blaziken Flare Blitz vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Dynamax Rillaboom-Gmax: 414-488 (100 – 117.8%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 252 Atk Blaziken Flare Blitz vs. 252 HP / 252 Def Grimmsnarl-Gmax: 199-235 (98.5 – 116.3%) — 93.8% chance to OHKO
+1 252 Atk Blaziken Flare Blitz vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Landorus-Therian: 159-187 (96.3 – 113.3%) — 81.3% chance to OHKO
+2 252 Atk Blaziken Close Combat vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Dynamax Heatran: 372-438 (93.9 – 110.6%) — 62.5% chance to OHKO
+2 36 Atk Blaziken Max Flare vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Dynamax Celesteela in Sun: 408-480 (100 – 117.6%) — guaranteed OHKO
+1 84 Atk Blaziken Max Knuckle vs. 244 HP / 84 Def Incineroar: 204-240 (101.4 – 119.4%) — guaranteed OHKO
+1 100 Atk Blaziken Max Flare vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Landorus-Therian: 165-195 (100 – 118.1%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 188 Atk Blaziken Max Flare vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Grimmsnarl-Gmax: 202-238 (100 – 117.8%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 252 Atk Blaziken Max Knuckle vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Nihilego through Reflect: 183-216 (98.9 – 116.7%) — 93.8% chance to OHKO
+2 252 Atk Blaziken Max Flare vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Dynamax Tornadus: 301-355 (97 – 114.5%) — 81.3% chance to OHKO
+2 252 Atk Blaziken Max Flare vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Dynamax Metagross: 362-428 (96.7 – 114.4%) — 81.3% chance to OHKO
+2 252 Atk Blaziken Max Flare vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Dynamax Glastrier: 362-428 (87.4 – 103.3%) — 25% chance to OHKO

#

+1 172+ Atk Blaziken Flare Blitz vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Landorus-Therian: 165-195 (100 – 118.1%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 220+ Atk Blaziken Close Combat vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Dynamax Heatran: 396-468 (100 – 118.1%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 252+ Atk Blaziken Flare Blitz vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Dynamax Metagross: 342-404 (91.4 – 108%) — 50% chance to OHKO
+2 148+ Atk Blaziken Max Knuckle vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Nihilego through Reflect: 186-219 (100.5 – 118.3%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 164+ Atk Blaziken Max Flare vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Dynamax Tornadus: 310-366 (100 – 118%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 172+ Atk Blaziken Max Flare vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Dynamax Metagross: 374-444 (100 – 118.7%) — guaranteed OHKO
+2 252+ Atk Blaziken Max Flare vs. 252 HP / 0 Def Dynamax Glastrier: 398-470 (96.1 – 113.5%) — 81.3% chance to OHKO
+2 252+ Atk Blaziken Max Flare vs. 236 HP / 4 Def Tapu Fini in Sun: 165-194 (94.2 – 110.8%) — 62.5% chance to OHKO
+1 252+ Atk Blaziken Max Flare vs. 4 HP / 0 Def Dynamax Landorus-Therian in Sun: 306-360 (92.7 – 109%) — 56.3% chance to OHKO

A slight blast to the past. Swords Dance helps give Blaziken a sizable power boost without costing HP recoil. This is enabled by Focus Sash, so Blaziken will be able to get that Swords Dance in against a double target. While past generations would have seen Blaze Kick and Reversal as Blaziken’s STAB options, the advent of Dynamax restores synergy with Flare Blitz and now Close Combat. However, running Swords Dance does come at the cost of a precious coverage slot. As a result, Blaziken will have to rely solely on Swords Dance to brute force its way through Water Type opposition.

TEAMMATES

Regieleki

Regieleki helps Blaziken eliminate Water Type and Flying Type threats, though it does come at the cost of increasing the team’s Weakness to Ground Type moves. The Electron Pokemon extends its support through moves like Electroweb, Reflect, and Light Screen. Electroweb is a nice way to not only bring targets into KO range, but also slow vulnerable targets before Blaziken has accumulated a Speed Boost turn. Reflect and Light Screen, on the other hand, helps to filter the damage that the Blaze Pokemon takes.

Bisharp / Thundurus Incarnate

Defiant Pokemon help to deter Intimidate, which Blaziken doesn’t like facing as a Physical striker. Bisharp and Thundurus Incarnate are two popular candidates for this role.

The former offers coverage against Psychic Type threats with its STAB combination, as well as Assurance, which synergizes well with Blaziken’s Max Knuckle to quickly secure the KO.

Thundurus Incarnate, on the other hand, is immune to Ground Type moves while offering the same coverage as Regieleki. Blaziken’s STAB also work well against the Rock Type and Ice Type Pokemon that threaten the Bolt Strike Pokemon. Thundurus Incarnate can also take over Dynamax duties and give the team more flexibility.

Tapu Fini

Blaziken’s horrible matchup against Landorus Therian necessitates a partner that can reliably handle the Abundance Pokemon. Tapu Fini is definitely a top pick in this category. Misty Surge helps block unwanted Paralysis and Sleep shenanigans, while its Water Type STAB is great against opposing Fire Type Pokemon, like Charizard and Heat Rotom. Additionally, STAB Moonblast is also crucial at managing the threat that is Dragapult. In return, Blaziken helps destroy Grass Type threats to the Alolan Guardian.

CHECKS & COUNTERS

Dusclops

Dusclops represents Trick Room, which flips the advantage offered by Speed boost. Through its immunity to Blaziken’s Fighting Type STAB, the Beckon Pokemon can cause mind games through Ally Switch, as Max Knuckle is no longer a safe call.

Landorus Therian

Both of Landorus Therian’s STAB options hit Blaziken for super effective damage, while it is generally bulky enough to take a hit from +1 Blaziken (while in Dynamax). Its Intimidate is also a huge limiter on Blaziken’s damage output.

Dragapult

Dragapult is extremely fast and often comes equipped with Max Airstream to match Blaziken’s Speed Boost. Its Type combination grants it a useful immunity to Max Knuckle, as well as resistances to Max Flare and Max Lightning.