OU Azelf

JTD783

JTD783

Why do I keep coming back to this game
[OVERVIEW]

Azelf is one of SM OU's few options for suicide leads. Its access to Stealth Rock, Taunt, Skill Swap, and Explosion, as well as its respectable base 115 Speed, makes it stand out among lead options. This Speed tier unfortunately causes Azelf to be outran by Tapu Koko and Greninja, which can attempt to shut it down. Taunt from Tapu Koko, Greninja, and other users renders Azelf incapable of setting hazards. Like with other suicide leads, Azelf does little for the team outside of setting Stealth Rock and preventing the opponent from doing so, meaning Azelf's team must compensate for its lack of offensive capabilities.

[SET]
name: Suicide Rocker
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Taunt
move 3: Skill Swap
move 4: Explosion
item: Focus Sash
ability: Levitate
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

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

Azelf's primary objective is to set Stealth Rock reliably. Taunt is used in the next moveslot to prevent other leads from accomplishing the same task as well as preventing foes from setting up. It works well in tandem with Azelf's respectable base Speed. Most importantly, it prevents Defog from being used. Skill Swap is another mandatory move on the set, as it enables Azelf to remove Mega Sableye's Magic Bounce and get Stealth Rock up against stall teams afterwards. The last slot goes to Explosion, which provides a one-time nuke to leave a dent in the foe and enables a teammate to come in safely afterwards. In addition, a slower foe cannot use Defog to remove Stealth Rock, since Azelf is KOed first.

Set Details
========

Azelf primarily uses Focus Sash to ensure that it will always be able to set Stealth Rock before being KOed. 252 Attack EVs maximize Explosion's power, while 252 Speed EVs capitalize on Azelf's ability to outrun and use Taunt on other leads. A Jolly nature is used to maximize Azelf's Speed. Levitate has little use in Azelf's role as a suicide lead but can be given to Magic Bounce users so Stealth Rock can be set.

Usage Tips
========

Azelf must always serve as the lead and use Stealth Rock on the first turn, although Taunt should be used first if the opponent leads with a slower hazard setter, such as defensive Garchomp, Skarmory, or bulky Excadrill. Against a Landorus-T lead, Azelf should always use Stealth Rock on the first turn as opposed to Taunt so it does not waste a turn by using Taunt only to have Landorus-T use U-Turn to switch out immediately. When playing against stall, Azelf should use Skill Swap against Mega Sableye so Stealth Rock can be used on the following turn. Explosion should then be used to prevent Skarmory and Zapdos from using Defog. If Azelf does not need to use Explosion immediately after leading and using Stealth Rock, then the player should keep it around so later in the game it can set up Stealth Rock again, use Explosion, or serve as death fodder.

Team Options
========

Azelf fits best on hyper offense teams, which appreciate its reliability in setting Stealth Rock and keeping momentum in their favor. Greninja, Ash-Greninja, Mimikyu, and Mega Medicham are hyper offense staples that Azelf can support. Bisharp can take advantage of opposing Defog users by receiving a +2 Attack boost from Defiant when a foe uses Defog against it. From there, Bisharp can use Iron Head, Knock Off, and Sucker Punch to punch holes or sweep. Mega Pinsir always appreciates the damage Stealth Rock deals to its checks, such as Rotom-W and Landorus-T, making them fall to boosted attacks more easily. Azelf's Taunt can also stop foes from laying Stealth Rock, which cripples Mega Pinsir immensely. Simply put, Azelf is a good partner for any Pokemon that needs Stealth Rock support in order to secure KOs.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]

Other Options
=============

Azelf's access to Nasty Plot, good Special Attack stat, and solid coverage may make it appear to be a capable sweeper. However, Azelf struggles to sweep because of its poor bulk and defensive typing, which leave it vulnerable to priority and faster revenge killers. Calm Mind Mega Alakazam outclasses this set. Magic Coat can be used to beat opposing hazard setters and Taunt users, but the standard moves are more reliable. A Colbur Berry set with maximum HP can be used to lay Stealth Rock on Fake Out + Foul Play Mega Sableye whilst taking a Thunderbolt from Magnet Tapu Koko, but Fake Out + Foul Play Mega Sableye is uncommon and it loses more than it gains in general. Flamethrower or Fire Blast can be used over Explosion to cripple Steel-types that switch in to tank a predicted Explosion. Azelf should use an EV spread of 4 HP / 252 SpA/ 252 Spe with a Timid nature if either move is used.

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

**Dark-Types**: Dark-types such as Bisharp, Tyranitar, and Hoopa-U can easily KO Azelf or set up in front of it, whereas Azelf can only damage them with Explosion.

**Fast Taunt Users**: Ash-Greninja, Tapu Koko, Tornadus-T, and Prankster Taunt users can use Taunt on Azelf before it uses Taunt on them, rendering it near-useless.

**Magic Bounce Users**: Mega Sableye, as well as the rare Espeon, Mega Absol, and Xatu, will bounce Azelf's Taunt and Stealth Rock against it if they have not had their ability removed with Skill Swap first.

**Pokemon That Can Take Advantage of Flinches**: Greninja outspeeds Azelf and can flinch it with Dark Pulse, making Azelf incapable of laying hazards. Similarly, Choice Scarf Jirachi can outspeed Azelf and flinch it to death with Iron Head.
 
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I would mention more Taunt users than just Tapu Koko. Ash Greninja and Tornadus-T can run Taunt sets.

I always use Fire Blast over Flamethrower, maybe it's just me.

In OO you could mention Magic Coat to dunk opposing Azelfs, Taunters and leads in general. you could also mention that Azelf has a capable offensive movepool and nasty plot, but it's outclassed as an attacker.

Edit: in usage tips you could mention Taunt 50/50s versus Landorus-T, as if you taunt on their uturn you're fucked. There's also the possibility of Scarf. Tbh I almost always Stealth Rock on turn one if I see a Landorus-T, as bad as that sounds. It depends on how well yours and the opponent's team handle SR.
 
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Azelf without Explosion and Skill Swap together is utter dogshit. De-slash Flamethrower and move it to OO but list it as Fire Blast instead 'cause the power drop isn't worth it on a suicide lead anyway. Remove Flamethrower/Fire Blast's mentions from the overview and moves sections.

Remove mentions of Colbur from set details and instead add it to OO as this:
  • A Colbur Berry set with max HP can be used to lay Stealth Rock on Fake Out+Foul Play Sableye whilst taking a Thunderbolt from Magnet Tapu Koko, but Fake Out+Foul Play Sableye is uncommon and it loses more than it gains in general.
In the current meta Max Atk is better 'cause you can fall back on Sash anyway and don't have to deal w/ Mega Lop, making the ability to maximise nuking power better.

Remove the mention of the Taunt 50:50 vs. Lando-T from usage tips and instead say to never click Taunt vs. it; it is always the wrong play to click Taunt against it 'cause if it U-turns it breaks ur sash and leaves Azelf at the mercy of whatever comes out against it--leaving it unable to set SR.

It really isn't that hard to lay on Sab; you don't need to not lead w/ Azelf as u just Skill Swap vs. ladder players anyway and 99% of the time suffer no repercussions. I guess u could say it's a 50:50, but either way the strategy you have listed in your bullet is pointlessly complex.

Add a mention of how Taunt allows Azelf to stop setup attempts too
Azelf's access to Nasty Plot, good Special Attack stat, and solid coverage may make it appear to be a capable sweeper. However, Azelf struggles to sweep because of its poor bulk and defensive typing, which leave it vulnerable to priority and faster revenge killers. Its power is still not incredible even after a Nasty Plot boost. While Nasty Plot can be successful in lower tiers, Azelf's niche in OU is its role as a suicide lead.
Click to expand...
The text in red is pointless fluff; remove it. Also I disagree w/ the sentence in blue because +2 Azelf's strength isn't incredible considering it hits 698, which is more than enough to nuke stuff with its excellent coverage. Remove this sentence and mention more along the lines of Azelf being mostly outclassed by CM Mega Alakazam.

Dual Screens Azelf doesn't run Stealth Rock; when you mention it say Reflect / Light Screen / Taunt / Boom as the set instead.
 
I disagree with Martin.

I find that using Skill Swap + Stealth Rock often opens up mind games with mega vs non mega sableye as if you skill swap a non mega'd sableye you basically won't get rocks up vs stall. I've found myself using DGleam over Swap with enough spatk evs to 2hko Mega Sableye so that I can always get up rocks vs Sab stall teams. I understand that this isn't as optimal (you weaken EXplosion damage a lot, but this helps Azelf do its job well: get up rocks always, as DGleam is more consistent vs sableye) and would probably be OO material, but I wouldn't use the words "utter dogshit" to describe it.

Additionally, I don't think using "dogshit" or "trash" or "garbage" in QC analysis threads is very professional or proper smogon etiquette, and yet it has been a reoccurring thing in both the OU Forums and OU QC forums as of late and it needs to stop. (especially from users who are badged! and moderators!)

People called Z Hurricane/Psychic Volcarona trash in the original QC thread yet look where we are in the current metagame. VR said Maro-Alola shouldn't run Rock Head in non-TR calling it trash but the metagame has shifted now. Not trying to get on or rant too much, but I just am a long-time smogon contributor who hates to see this kind of negativity and lingo tossed around when it would not have been tolerated years ago.
 
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If people agree that the Skill Swap/Rocks dilemma against Mega Sableye should be mentioned then I will add it back in. As for Dazzling Gleam, Azelf needs heavy investment to 2HKO 252 HP/252 Def/4 SpD Impish Mega Sab. Even 252 SpA Timid has a chance of missing the KO (it's a 98.8% chance to 2HKO however). Azelf can't 2HKO 252/144/112 Careful Mega Sab even if Azelf is max Special Attack; Gleam does 47% max.

I'm open to hearing both sides' arguments, so just let me know.
 
[OVERVIEW]

  • One of SM OU's best suicide leads
  • Has access to SR, Taunt, Skill Swap to differentiate itself from other suicide leads
  • Good speed tier, but outran by threats such as Tapu Koko and Greninja
  • Explosion dents opponents after Azelf has set Stealth Rock (not really worth mentioning tbh)
  • Azelf can be rendered useless with Taunt
  • Does little for team aside from getting hazards up, so the rest of the team must compensate for its lack of offensive capability
[SET]
name: Suicide Rocker
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Taunt
move 3: Skill Swap
move 4: Explosion/Flamethrower
item: Focus Sash
ability: Pressure Levitate
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP/252 Atk/252 Spe

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

  • Azelf's primary objective is to set Stealth Rock reliably.
  • Taunt is used in the next moveslot to prevent other leads from accomplishing the same task as well as preventing opponents from setting up. It works well in tandem with Azelf's respectable base speed. (also prevents Defog)
  • Skill Swap is another mandatory move on the set as it enables Azelf to remove Mega Sableye's Magic Bounce and get Stealth Rock up against stall teams afterwards.
  • The last slot goes to either Explosion, which provides a one-time nuke to leave a dent in the opponent and enables a teammate to come in safely afterwards. In addition, a slower opponent cannot Defog away Stealth Rock since Azelf is KO'd first.
(Explosion is a lot better overall for momentum purposes and blocking Spin. Just mention Flamethrower/Fire Blast in OO)

Set Details
========

  • Azelf primarily uses Focus Sash to ensure that it will always be able to set Stealth Rock before being KO'd.
  • 252 Attack EVs maximize Explosion's power, while 252 Speed EVs capitalize on Azelf's ability to outrun and Taunt other leads. The 4 remaining EVs are placed in HP to give Azelf slightly more bulk.
  • A Jolly Nature is used to maximize Azelf's speed.
  • Levitate has little use in Azelf's role as a suicide lead but can be Skill Swapped to Magic Bouncers so Stealth Rock can be used.

Usage Tips
========

  • Azelf must always serve as the lead and use Stealth Rock on the first turn, although Taunt should be used first if the opponent leads with a slower hazard setter, such as defensive Landorus-Therian, Garchomp, Skarmory, and bulky Excadrill.
  • Against a Landorus-Therian lead, Azelf should always use Stealth Rock on the first turn as opposed to Taunt so it does not waste a turn by using Taunt only to have Landorus U-Turn out immediately.
  • When playing against stall, Azelf should use Skill Swap against Mega Sableye so Stealth Rock can be used on the following turn. Explosion is then used to prevent Skarmory and Zapdos from using Defog.
(Mention how a player should use their judgement on whether or not to Explode right after getting up SR, or to preserve Azelf as death fodder or to potentially get SR up again later in the match if need be. If you don't need to Explode right away, there's no reason to do so.)

Team Options
========

  • Azelf fits best on Hyper Offense-oriented teams, which appreciate its reliability in setting Stealth Rock and keeping momentum in their favor.
  • Bisharp takes advantage of opposing Defog users by receiving a +2 Attack boost from Defiant when an opponent uses Defog against it. From there, Bisharp uses Iron Head, Knock Off, and Sucker Punch to punch holes or sweep.
  • Mega Pinsir always appreciates the damage Stealth Rock deals to its checks, such as Rotom-Wash and Landorus-Therian, making them fall to boosted attacks more easily. Azelf's Taunt can also stop opponents from laying Stealth Rock, which cripple Mega Pinsir immensely.
  • Simply put, Azelf is a good partner for any pokemon that needs Stealth Rock support in order to secure KO's.
Other Options
=============

  • Azelf is able to run a Dual Screens moveset consisting of Taunt, Reflect, Light Screen, and Explosion while holding Light Clay; however, it is unable to get hazards up against Mega Sableye and is more prone to being OHKO'd by faster threats, such as Greninja and Mega Alakazam. In addition, Tapu Koko is faster, has a better defensive typing, and has access to the aforementioned moves, with the exception of Explosion.
  • Azelf's access to Nasty Plot, good Special Attack stat, and solid coverage may make it appear to be a capable sweeper. However, Azelf struggles to sweep because of its poor bulk and defensive typing, which leave it vulnerable to priority and faster revenge killers. Calm Mind Mega Alakazam outclasses this set.
  • Magic Coat can be used to beat opposing hazard setters and Taunt users, but the standard moves are more reliable.
  • A Colbur Berry set with max HP can be used to lay Stealth Rock on Fake Out+Foul Play Sableye whilst taking a Thunderbolt from Magnet Tapu Koko, but Fake Out+Foul Play Sableye is uncommon and it loses more than it gains in general.
  • Fire Blast or Flamethrower can be used over Explosion to cripple Steel-types that switch in to tank a predicted Explosion. Azelf should use an EV spread of 4 HP/252 SpA/252 Spe with a Timid Nature if Fire Blast is either of them are used.
(TBH, Azelf is completely outclassed as a Dual Screener by Tapu Koko, which is faster and has a much better typing defensively. Defensively, Uxie is probably a better Dual Screener as well, so there's just no reason to use Azelf in that regard.)

Checks and Counters
===================
  • Flinch Abusers: Greninja outspeeds Azelf and can flinch it with Dark Pulse, making Azelf incapable of laying hazards. Similarly, Choice Scarf Jirachi can outspeed Azelf and flinch it to death with Iron Head.
  • Fast Taunt Users: Ash-Greninja, Tapu Koko, Tornadus-Therian, Tapu Koko and Prankster Taunt users can Taunt Azelf before it Taunts them, rendering it near-useless.
  • Magic Bounce Users: Mega Sableye, as well as the rare Espeon and Xatu, will bounce Azelf's Taunt and Stealth Rock against it if they are not Skill Swapped first.
QC 1/3
 
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JTD783 said:
[OVERVIEW]

  • One of SM OU's best suicide leads idk if i agree with this, just say its one of the few viable options for suicide leads
  • Has access to SR, Taunt, Skill Swap to differentiate itself from other suicide leads explosion too
  • Good speed tier, but outran by threats such as Tapu Koko and Greninja
  • Azelf can be rendered useless with Taunt
  • Does little for team aside from getting hazards up, so the rest of the team must compensate for its lack of offensive capability

[SET]
name: Suicide Rocker
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Taunt
move 3: Skill Swap
move 4: Explosion
item: Focus Sash
ability: Levitate
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP/252 Atk/252 Spe

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

  • Azelf's primary objective is to set Stealth Rock reliably.
  • Taunt is used in the next moveslot to prevent other leads from accomplishing the same task as well as preventing opponents from setting up. It works well in tandem with Azelf's respectable base speed. Most importantly, it prevents Defog from being used.
  • Skill Swap is another mandatory move on the set as it enables Azelf to remove Mega Sableye's Magic Bounce and get Stealth Rock up against stall teams afterwards.
  • The last slot goes to Explosion, which provides a one-time nuke to leave a dent in the opponent and enables a teammate to come in safely afterwards. In addition, a slower opponent cannot Defog away Stealth Rock since Azelf is KO'd first.

Set Details
========

  • Azelf primarily uses Focus Sash to ensure that it will always be able to set Stealth Rock before being KO'd.
  • 252 Attack EVs maximize Explosion's power, while 252 Speed EVs capitalize on Azelf's ability to outrun and Taunt other leads. The 4 remaining EVs are placed in HP to give Azelf slightly more bulk.
  • A Jolly Nature is used to maximize Azelf's speed.
  • Levitate has little use in Azelf's role as a suicide lead but can be Skill Swapped to Magic Bouncers so Stealth Rock can be used.

Usage Tips
========

  • Azelf must always serve as the lead and use Stealth Rock on the first turn, although Taunt should be used first if the opponent leads with a slower hazard setter, such as defensive Landorus-Therian, Garchomp, Skarmory, and bulky Excadrill.
  • Against a Landorus-Therian lead, Azelf should always use Stealth Rock on the first turn as opposed to Taunt so it does not waste a turn by using Taunt only to have Landorus U-Turn out immediately. this contradicts the part about lando in the above line, fix that
  • When playing against stall, Azelf should use Skill Swap against Mega Sableye so Stealth Rock can be used on the following turn. Explosion is then used to prevent Skarmory and Zapdos from using Defog.
  • If Azelf does not need to explode immediately after leading and using Stealth Rock, then the player should keep it around so later in the game it can set up Stealth Rock again, use Explosion, or serve as death fodder.
Team Options
========

  • Azelf fits best on Hyper Offense-oriented teams, which appreciate its reliability in setting Stealth Rock and keeping momentum in their favor.
  • Bisharp takes advantage of opposing Defog users by receiving a +2 Attack boost from Defiant when an opponent uses Defog against it. From there, Bisharp uses Iron Head, Knock Off, and Sucker Punch to punch holes or sweep.
  • Mega Pinsir always appreciates the damage Stealth Rock deals to its checks, such as Rotom-Wash and Landorus-Therian, making them fall to boosted attacks more easily. Azelf's Taunt can also stop opponents from laying Stealth Rock, which cripple Mega Pinsir immensely.
  • Simply put, Azelf is a good partner for any pokemon that needs Stealth Rock support in order to secure KO's.
i would just list some generic offensive options like mega medi, mimikyu, ashgren, reg gren etc

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
  • Azelf's access to Nasty Plot, good Special Attack stat, and solid coverage may make it appear to be a capable sweeper. However, Azelf struggles to sweep because of its poor bulk and defensive typing, which leave it vulnerable to priority and faster revenge killers. Calm Mind Mega Alakazam outclasses this set.
  • Magic Coat can be used to beat opposing hazard setters and Taunt users, but the standard moves are more reliable.
  • A Colbur Berry set with max HP can be used to lay Stealth Rock on Fake Out+Foul Play Sableye whilst taking a Thunderbolt from Magnet Tapu Koko, but Fake Out+Foul Play Sableye is uncommon and it loses more than it gains in general.
  • Flamethrower or Fire Blast can be used over Explosion to cripple Steel-types that switch in to tank a predicted Explosion. Azelf should use an EV spread of 4 HP/252 SpA/252 Spe with a Timid Nature if either move is used.
Checks and Counters
===================
  • Flinch Abusers: Greninja outspeeds Azelf and can flinch it with Dark Pulse, making Azelf incapable of laying hazards. Similarly, Choice Scarf Jirachi can outspeed Azelf and flinch it to death with Iron Head. dont really agree with this, i would honestly put this at the last slot because its pretty niche
  • Fast Taunt Users: Ash-Greninja, Tapu Koko, Tornadus-Therian, and Prankster Taunt users can Taunt Azelf before it Taunts them, rendering it near-useless.
  • Magic Bounce Users: Mega Sableye, as well as the rare Espeon and Xatu, will bounce Azelf's Taunt and Stealth Rock against it if they are not Skill Swapped first.
add a section for dark types
Click to expand...
2/3
 
add remove comments
[OVERVIEW]

Azelf is one of SM OU's few options for suicide leads. Its access to Stealth Rock, Taunt, Skill Swap, and Explosion, as well as its respectable base 115 Speed, makes it stand out among the other (it can't stand out in a group it's not included in, if that makes sense) lead options. This speed Speed tier unfortunately causes Azelf to be outran by Tapu Koko and Greninja, which can attempt to shut it down. Taunt from Tapu Koko, Greninja, and other users renders Azelf incapable of setting hazards. Like with other suicide leads, Azelf does little for the team outside of setting Stealth Rock and preventing the opponent from doing so, meaning Azelf's team must compensate for its lack of offensive capability capabilities.
(remove break)
[SET]
name: Suicide Rocker
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Taunt
move 3: Skill Swap
move 4: Explosion
item: Focus Sash
ability: Levitate
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS] (remove break)
Moves
========

Azelf's primary objective is to set Stealth Rock reliably. Taunt is used in the next moveslot to prevent other leads from accomplishing the same task as well as preventing opponents foes (opponent = opposing player) from setting up. It works well in tandem with Azelf's respectable base speed Speed. Most importantly, it prevents Defog from being used. Skill Swap is another mandatory move on the set, (AC) as it enables Azelf to remove Mega Sableye's Magic Bounce and get Stealth Rock up against stall teams afterwards. The last slot goes to Explosion, which provides a one-time nuke to leave a dent in the opponent foe and enables a teammate to come in safely afterwards. In addition, a slower opponent foe cannot use Defog away to remove Stealth Rock, (AC) since Azelf is KO'd KOed first.

Set Details
========

Azelf primarily uses Focus Sash to ensure that it will always be able to set Stealth Rock before being KO'd KOed. 252 Attack EVs maximize Explosion's power, while 252 Speed EVs capitalize on Azelf's ability to outrun and use Taunt on other leads. A Jolly Nature nature is used to maximize Azelf's speed Speed. Levitate has little use in Azelf's role as a suicide lead but can be Skill Swapped to Magic Bouncers given to Magic Bounce users with Skill Swap so Stealth Rock can be used set (can be used either way, it just wont work).

Usage Tips
========

Azelf must always serve as the lead and use Stealth Rock on the first turn, although Taunt should be used first if the opponent leads with a slower hazard setter, such as defensive Garchomp, Skarmory, and or bulky Excadrill. Against a Landorus-Therian Landorus-T lead, Azelf should always use Stealth Rock on the first turn as opposed to Taunt so it does not waste a turn by using Taunt only to have Landorus U-Turn Landorus-T use U-turn to switch out immediately. When playing against stall, Azelf should use Skill Swap against Mega Sableye so Stealth Rock can be used on the following turn. Explosion is then should then be used to prevent Skarmory and Zapdos from using Defog. If Azelf does not need to explode use Explosion immediately after leading and using Stealth Rock, then the player should keep it around so later in the game it can set up Stealth Rock again, use Explosion, or serve as death fodder.

Team Options
========

Azelf fits best on Hyper Offense-oriented hyper offense teams, which appreciate its reliability in setting Stealth Rock and keeping momentum in their favor. Greninja, Ash-Greninja, Mimikyu, and Mega Medicham are Hyper-Offense hyper offense staples that Azelf can support. Bisharp takes can take advantage of opposing Defog users by receiving a +2 Attack boost from Defiant when an opponent a foe uses Defog against it. From there, Bisharp uses can use Iron Head, Knock Off, and Sucker Punch to punch holes or sweep. Mega Pinsir always appreciates the damage Stealth Rock deals to its checks, such as Rotom-Wash and Landorus-Therian Rotom-W and Landorus-T, making them fall to boosted attacks more easily. Azelf's Taunt can also stop opponents foes from laying Stealth Rock, which cripple cripples Mega Pinsir immensely. Simply put, Azelf is a good partner for any pokemon Pokemon that needs Stealth Rock support in order to secure KO's KOs.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]

Other Options
=============

Azelf's access to Nasty Plot, good Special Attack stat, and solid coverage may make it appear to be a capable sweeper. However, Azelf struggles to sweep because of its poor bulk and defensive typing, which leave it vulnerable to priority and faster revenge killers. Calm Mind Mega Alakazam outclasses this set. Magic Coat can be used to beat opposing hazard setters and Taunt users, but the standard moves are more reliable. A Colbur Berry set with max maximum HP can be used to lay Stealth Rock on Fake Out+Foul Play Fake Out + Foul Play Sableye (Mega Sableye?) whilst taking a Thunderbolt from Magnet Tapu Koko, but Fake Out+Foul Play Fake Out + Foul Play Sableye is uncommon and it loses more than it gains in general. Flamethrower or Fire Blast can be used over Explosion to cripple Steel-types that switch in to tank a predicted Explosion. Azelf should use an EV spread of 4 HP/252 SpA/252 Spe 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe with a Timid Nature nature if either move is used.

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

*Dark-Types **Dark-types**: Dark-types such as Bisharp, Tyranitar, and Hoopa-Unbound Hoopa-U can easily KO Azelf or set up in front of it, whereas Azelf can only damage them with Explosion.

*Fast Taunt Users **Fast Taunt Users**: Ash-Greninja, Tapu Koko, Tornadus-Therian Tornadus-T, and Prankster Taunt users can Taunt use Taunt on Azelf before it Taunts uses Taunt on them, rendering it near-useless.

*Magic Bounce Users **Magic Bounce Users**: Mega Sableye, as well as the rare Espeon, Mega Absol, and Xatu, will bounce Azelf's Taunt and Stealth Rock against it if they are not Skill Swapped have not had their ability removed with Skill Swap first.

*Flinch Abusers **Pokemon That Can Take Advantage of Flinches**: Greninja outspeeds Azelf and can flinch it with Dark Pulse, making Azelf incapable of laying hazards. Similarly, Choice Scarf Jirachi can outspeed Azelf and flinch it to death with Iron Head.
GP 1/2
Z7pp4k0.gif
 
Implemented GP 1/2. I apologize for my mistake of thinking the first GP had not occurred. PSA: dont play mons when you're tired
 
single spaces after periods please!!
GP 2/2
p4pcPhv.gif

[OVERVIEW]

Azelf is one of SM OU's few options for suicide leads. Its access to Stealth Rock, Taunt, Skill Swap, and Explosion, as well as its respectable base 115 Speed, makes it stand out among lead options. This Speed tier unfortunately causes Azelf to be outrun outran by Tapu Koko and Greninja, which can attempt to shut it down. Taunt from Tapu Koko, Greninja, and other users renders Azelf incapable of setting hazards. Like with other suicide leads, Azelf does little for the team outside of setting Stealth Rock and preventing the opponent from doing so, meaning Azelf's team must compensate for its lack of offensive capabilities.

[SET]
name: Suicide Rocker
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Taunt
move 3: Skill Swap
move 4: Explosion
item: Focus Sash
ability: Levitate
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

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

Azelf's primary objective is to set Stealth Rock reliably. Taunt is used in the next moveslot to prevents other leads from accomplishing the same task as well as preventing foes from setting up. It works well in tandem with Azelf's respectable base Speed. Most importantly, it prevents Defog from being used. Skill Swap is another mandatory move on the set, as it enables Azelf to remove Mega Sableye's Magic Bounce and get Stealth Rock up against stall teams afterwards. The last slot goes to Explosion, which provides a one-time nuke to leave a dent in the foe and enables a teammate to come in safely afterwards. In addition, a slower foe cannot use Defog to remove Stealth Rock, since Azelf is KOed first.

Set Details
========

Azelf primarily uses Focus Sash to ensures that Azelf it will always be able to set Stealth Rock before being KOed. 252 Attack EVs maximize Explosion's power, while 252 Speed EVs capitalize on Azelf's ability to outrun and use Taunt on other leads. A Jolly nature is used to maximize Azelf's Speed. Levitate has little use in Azelf's role as a suicide lead but can be given to Magic Bounce users with Skill Swap so Stealth Rock can be set.

Usage Tips
========

Azelf must always serve as the lead and use Stealth Rock on the first turn, although Taunt should be used first if the opponent leads with a slower hazard setter, such as defensive Garchomp, Skarmory, or bulky Excadrill. Against a Landorus-T lead, Azelf should always use Stealth Rock on the first turn as opposed to Taunt so it does not waste a turn by using Taunt only to have Landorus-T use U-turn to switch out immediately. When playing against stall, Azelf should use Skill Swap against Mega Sableye so Stealth Rock can be used on the following turn. Explosion should then be used to prevent Skarmory and Zapdos from using Defog. If Azelf does not need to use Explosion immediately after leading and using Stealth Rock, then the player should keep it around so later in the game it can set up Stealth Rock again, use Explosion, or serve as death fodder.

Team Options
========

Azelf fits best on hyper offense teams, which appreciate its reliability in setting Stealth Rock and keeping momentum in their favor. Greninja, Ash-Greninja, Mimikyu, and Mega Medicham are hyper offense staples that Azelf can support. Bisharp can take advantage of opposing Defog users by receiving a +2 Attack boost from Defiant when a foe uses Defog against it. From there, Bisharp can use Iron Head, Knock Off, and Sucker Punch to punch holes or sweep. Mega Pinsir always appreciates the damage Stealth Rock deals to its checks, such as Rotom-W and Landorus-T, making them fall to boosted attacks more easily. Azelf's Taunt can also stop foes from laying Stealth Rock, which cripples Mega Pinsir immensely. Simply put, Azelf is a good partner for any Pokemon that needs Stealth Rock support in order to secure KOs.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]

Other Options
=============

Azelf's access to Nasty Plot, good Special Attack stat, and solid coverage may make it appear to be a capable sweeper. However, Azelf struggles to sweep because of its poor bulk and defensive typing, which leave it vulnerable to priority and faster revenge killers. Furthermore, Calm Mind Mega Alakazam outclasses this set. Magic Coat can be used to beat opposing hazard setters and Taunt users, but the standard moves are more reliable. A Colbur Berry set with maximum HP can be used to lay Stealth Rock on Fake Out + Foul Play Mega Sableye while whilst taking a Thunderbolt from Magnet Tapu Koko, but Fake Out + Foul Play Mega Sableye is uncommon and it loses more than it gains in general. Flamethrower or Fire Blast can be used over Explosion to cripple Steel-types that switch in to tank a predicted Explosion. Azelf should use an EV spread of 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe with a Timid nature if either move is used.

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

**Dark-types**: Dark-types such as Bisharp, Tyranitar, and Hoopa-U can easily KO Azelf or set up in front of it, whereas Azelf can only damage them with Explosion.

**Fast Taunt Users**: Ash-Greninja, Tapu Koko, Tornadus-T, and Prankster Taunt users can use Taunt on Azelf before it uses Taunt on them, rendering it near useless.

**Magic Bounce Users**: Mega Sableye, as well as the rare Espeon, Mega Absol, and Xatu, will bounce Azelf's Taunt and Stealth Rock against it if they have not had their ability removed with Skill Swap first.

**Pokemon That Can Take Advantage of Flinches**: Greninja outspeeds Azelf and can induce a flinch it with Dark Pulse, making Azelf incapable of laying hazards. Similarly, Choice Scarf Jirachi can outspeed Azelf and use flinch it to death with Iron Head to induce flinches until Azelf faints.
 
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