I won't slash it due to availability and the discountenance of Wifi, but I'll give it a mention in the Other Options.
Rishidafishi said:
Due to the new Team Preview, leads technically don't exist, so this set isn't necessary.
Almost done~
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Jirachi (Analysis)
- Thread starter AccidentalGreed
- Start date
I won't slash it due to availability and the discountenance of Wifi, but I'll give it a mention in the Other Options.
Due to the new Team Preview, leads technically don't exist, so this set isn't necessary.
Almost done~
OVERVIEW
Jirachi is one of the most useful of the 600 BST sprites. Its great typing and movepool allow it to run a variety of sets that no other pokemon can replicate with the right stats to perform any role with aplomb. Not to mention the fantastic ability Serene Grace is still as abusable as ever with moves like Iron Head, Body Slam, Thunder, etc. Its signature move Doom Desire also got a great buff this generation leading to some very interesting new moveset possibilities. Finally, specially defensive Jirachi is also one of the best Draco Meteor sponges in the game, being one of the few pokemon that resists the attack with good enough stats and the ability to heal with Wish. Jirachi can fit on to nigh any team with little issue.
Jirachi is one of the most useful of the 600 BST sprites. Its great typing and movepool allow it to run a variety of sets that no other pokemon can replicate with the right stats to perform any role with aplomb. Not to mention the fantastic ability Serene Grace is still as abusable as ever with moves like Iron Head, Body Slam, Thunder, etc. Its signature move Doom Desire also got a great buff this generation leading to some very interesting new moveset possibilities. Finally, specially defensive Jirachi is also one of the best Draco Meteor sponges in the game, being one of the few pokemon that resists the attack with good enough stats and the ability to heal with Wish. Jirachi can fit on to nigh any team with little issue.
- 600 even BST makes for great flexibility.
- Serene Grace is easy to abuse.
- 8 resistences, 1 immunity and 2 weaknesses, albeit to Fire and Ground, make for good defensive typing.
- A reliable Wish passer.
- Able to run a multitude of sets including Trick, Wish, dual screens, paraflinch, Calm Mind, Stealth Rock, and Doom Desire + U-Turn.
- Immunity to Toxic makes it a good Calm Mind abuser.
- Can make 101 HP Substitutes.
- Able to soak up physical or special Dragon attacks like no other.
All the RNG legal Jirachis come from 4th Gen. I'm just saying that the WiFi forum is really big and the one that usually show up at VGC. It's just a slash plus, like it's already mentioned, you don't use Body Slam for the damage but for the ability of paralyzing ground types. So, the -negligible- loss in power won't be missed.
Thanks, Jaroda! I did as you said and changed it a little...well actually, a lot due to generality. I also followed most of your bullet points accordingly, so thank you!
locoghoul said:
I talked to a QC member about it, and since Body Slam is superior to Secret power in notable ways, I'm still going to give it an AC mention. Secret Power is absolutely viable if one finds it hard to obtain a Body Slam Jirachi, so that would solve it.
On a significant note, almost ready for GP checks!
Yes I saw your revision. Definitely more specific and better than mine, well done! As far as the resistences section though I think it's more important to acknowledge the Ice resistence more than the Psychic one. Immunity to sand and poison makes it a great sandstorm team partner able to take the Ice attacks aimed at Gliscor, Garchomp and Landorus. Two of which can switch into Jirachi's EQ qeakness no problem. Small nitpick.
Alright, I made Jaroda's edit. I mean, Jirachi already takes so little from Psychic-type attacks for obvious reasons, so yeah, thanks Jaroda!
In other news, Jirachi has now been added to the queue, and is now ready for GP checks! Let's get this done.
In other news, Jirachi has now been added to the queue, and is now ready for GP checks! Let's get this done.
If I may so suggest, I've found Magic Coat a very effective option. Not many people expect it (much less from Jirachi), and just as many don't even know what Magic Coat does. It's especially amusing using Magic Coat against a Skarmory who sets up and tries to whirlwind you out only to be sent back to the Pokeball itself.
I believe it deserves a mention in AC (fourth slot for the Specially Defensive set, perhaps), or maybe Other Options.
I believe it deserves a mention in AC (fourth slot for the Specially Defensive set, perhaps), or maybe Other Options.
Alright, I gave it a go on the Other Options to avoid clutter.
And, this is ready for GP checks, of course.
Updated with the disappearance of Blaziken. I also made a few areas concise, so let's get this done, people!
I was just looking this over and I noticed that in a few sets you talk about other sets like this: "In the above set...". You shouldn't do that, because it's very possible that sets will get reorganized after upload, rendering these sentences nonsensical. You can say something like "Compared to more offensive sets..." or whatever, but don't relatively reference other sets.
Okay, thank you! I removed most, if not all, the direct references to other sets in all of the movesets.
Incoming Amateur GP Check
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Good job on the whole. Just a few errors here and there.
Well done, great analysis!
EDIT: I don't think it will let me fit all of this in one hide tag, sorry for the incovenince.
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[OVERVIEW]
<p> If one were to choose a phrase that best describes Jirachi, this phrase would most likely be <i>Noblesse Oblige</i>, meaning that with great power and influence comes great responsibilities. Evidenced byWith evidence from the last two generations, Jirachi remains one of the most useful of the base 600 “Base Stat Total Sprites” best Pokemon that has a base stat total of 600, and for good reasons. Its phenomenal typing and enormous movepool allow it to run a variety of sets that no other competitors can replicate fully. Jirachi’s stats also allow it to perform nearly any role with good insurance, and unlike most other rivals such as Shaymin and Latias, all of its stats benefit it. Not to mentionAlso, Jirachi’s uniquenot unique... ability, Serene Grace, is still as abusable as ever, paired with moves including but not limited to Iron Head, Body Slam, and Thunder. Jirachi’s list of options is certainly expandable,it can take many roles ranging from the classic Calm Mind set to standard physical sets to helpful support sets.</p>
<p>Jirachi’s plethora of options and possibilities are not the only things that benefit Jirachi this generation. With the presence of classic and new threats in the land of the Overused, such as Latios, Latias, Reuniclus, Ferrothorn, and Outrage users, Jirachi bravely stand up against many of them. Its Steel- / Psychic- typing grants Jirachi nigh eight resistances and a mere two weaknesses, allowing Jirachi to sponge many of the omnipresent Dragon-, Rock-, and Ice-type attacks of OU. On top of this, Jirachi’s typing also grants it good access to the battlefield means that it is hard to stall out, being immune to both Sandstorm and Toxic Spikes and allowing it many opportunities to switch in and wreck the opposing team. To put salt in the wounds, the Wish Pokemon, of course, has access to Wish, granting consistent, reliable healing amongstfor itself and its teammates. With all these traits in consideration, Jirachi can easily fit on and support any team with little issue.</p>
[SET]
name: Specially Defensive
move 1: Iron Head
move 2: Body Slam / Thunder Wave
move 3: Wish
move 4: Fire Punch / Protect
nature: Careful
item: Leftovers
evs: 252 HP / 224 SpD / 32 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This set utilizes Jirachi’s access to multiple support moves and good defensive typing, grantinggiving Jirachi just two weaknesses and a goodhuge number of resistances, especiallymost importantly against Dragon-type moves. With investment in Hit Points and Special Defense, Jirachi can cushion various Special attacks with ease and providewhile providing eloquent support with paralysis and a 200 Hit Point Wish. For example, Jirachi makes a perfectly viable switch-in to Timid Choice Specs Latios' Draco Meteor, losing only 31.4% - 37.1% of its health when hit. This means that Specially Defensive Jirachi can sponge nearly any neutral or resisted hit below this specific attack, one of the most powerful (if not the most dangerous!) attacks in OU. For a less mathematical example of Jirachi's Wish, a Pokemon with around an uninvested base 80 HP (such as Latios, Thundurus, and Volcarona) will recover about two-thirds of its health, which is a considerable improvement in comparison to last generation.</p>
<p>Jirachi is unique when compared to other paralysis-inducers,withthanks to its ability, Serene Grace, Body Slam, and Iron Head. Body Slam is primary over Thunder Wave because, whereas a multitude of support Pokémon can abuse Thunder Wave, Jirachi can utilize Body Slam to paralyze threats that Thunder Wave cannot, most commonlymainly Ground-type Pokémon and faster Taunt users. Notably, Serene Grace doubles Body Slam’s chance to paralyze to a consistent 60%, giving ample time to paralyze a threat, courtesy of Jirachi’s bulk allowing Jirachi to paralyze a threat most of the time, thanks to its great bulk. In any case, Thunder Wave is always an option over Body Slam for a guaranteed paralysis move. Keep in mind that most support Pokémon hashave access to Thunder Wave, and Body Slam differentiates Jirachi from its competition. Another trait that Jirachi has over other support Pokemon is Iron Head; this move is complimentary with paralysis and Serene Grace to attempt to flinch and weaken and opponent in KO range for another Pokemon as Jirachi can slowly chip away at an opponent, weakening it for another Pokemon to KO. Iron Head may also allow Jirachi a “free turn” for Wish healing, provided the opponent is flinched. However, this Jirachi should be used defensively at first, so Iron Head usage should be kept to a minimum because of zero investment in Attack the zero attack investment.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The last slot is entirely up to the user. Fire Punch provides a pivot againstscares away Scizor and Ferrothorn, both of which are significant defensive threats. Protect provides Jirachi with a way to scout for incoming attacks and grants healing allows Jirachi to be safely healed after Wish has been used. With Protect, Jirachi will not have to rely on Iron Head as much, but it cannot check Scizor or Ferrothorn. U-Turn is also an option to pass Jirachi’s Wishes safely to another teammate; with Jirachi’s relatively slow Speed without investment and good bulk, it is nearly guaranteed to heal another teammate successfully without the recipient taking damage.</p>
<p>The given EVs allow maximum special bulk while outrunning Jolly Tyranitar. Significant Speed investment is not necessary due to Body Slam or Thunder Wave. Alternatively, one may opt for a more Physically Defensive spread of 240 HP / 160 Def / 76 SpD / 32 Spe with an Impish nature. This spread allows Jirachi to better take physical attacks while maintaining a a reasonable amount of special bulk. It is a perfectly viable alternative over the main spread, depending on the team's needs.</p>
<p>Jirachi provides support in the forms of Wish and a paralysis-inducing move, allowing slower, but powerful, teammates to thrive. Defensively-speaking, a levitating Dragon-type is a perfect team member to receive Jirachi's support; Latios, Latias, Dragonite, Salamence, and Hydreigon are all immune or resistant to Jirachi's weaknesses. Being the powerhouses they are, they can put a dent in the opposing team while being kept alive by Wish. Gyarados, while not a Dragon-type, operates similarly to them and can provide an offensive and/or defensive approach to the team with Dragon Dance, Dragon Tail, and Intimidate. Jirachi in return can easily take the Dragon-, Ice-, and Rock-type moves aimed at all of them and repeat the support process.</p>
[SET]
name: SubCM
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Calm Mind
move 3: Thunderbolt
move 4: Flash Cannon / Psychic / Psyshock
nature: Timid
item: Leftovers
evs: 252 HP / 4 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Being Jirachi’s flagship set in the previous generations, Substitute paired with Calm Mind is still an ably a viable strategy on Jirachi due to the ability to break apart bulky and stall-oriented teams. With good defensive typing and maximum Hit Point investment, Jirachi can set up on multiple Pokemon in OU and proceed to sweep after a few boosts. Unlike other Calm Mind boosters, Jirachi has convenient immunities to passive damage, namely Toxic Spikes and Sandstorm. The magic of this set is that it easily forces defensive Pokemon, like Celebi, Blissey, Chansey, Jellicent, opposing Jirachi, and Porygon2, to struggle while it sets up, making a sweep all the more easier. The strategy is fairly simple; Jirachi should come in on a resisted attack or support move, and then use Substitute to identify the opponent’s response to it. From there, Jirachi has a few options: set up Calm Mind as the opponent switches to an attacker or initial check, or immediately hit-and-run if the counter is a significant threat.</p>
<p>Substitute and Calm Mind are obviously the integral parts of the set. Whereas Substitute blocks status and scouts for counters and checks, Calm Mind allows Jirachi to be more of a threat, offensively and defensively. For its attacking moves, Thunderbolt is necessary to achieve general coverage. Flash Cannon is the primary STAB option to ensure overall coverage. Flash Cannon notably allows Jirachi to 2HKO Tyranitar, who would otherwise wall it if Jirachi has not conjured many boosts. Psychic can better handle some other significant OU threats, such as Conkeldurr, Venusaur, and some Fire-type Pokemon. Finally, Psyshock gives Jirachi more momentum against physically-weak Pokemon and opposing Calm Mind users, especially Reuniclus and Latias. However, with Substitute and Flash Cannon or Psychic, Jirachi already defeats Chansey and Blissey, the two premier special walls. Choose which STAB move acts in the team's favor most.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>Maximum EV investment in HP is very necessary on this set to boost Jirachi's already stellar great bulk and give it time to Calm Mind. With maximum HP, Jirachi can utilize 101 HP Substitutes, which Seismic Toss users, such as Dusclops and Blissey, cannot break with one Seismic Toss. In addition, maximum speed investment with a Timid nature allows Jirachi to tie with positive base 100 Pokemon, ensuring it will not be revenge killed easily. The speed investment, however, is not necessary; Jirachi can be modified to outrun a certain Speed tier, putting the leftover EVs into Defense or Special Attack. Investing in Defense means that Jirachi can prepare for its sweep in front of weaker physical attacks.</p>
<p>Because Jirachi has to rely on multiple boosts and two attacks to be significantly threatening, it will run into several notable obstacles. Against offensive teams in general, faster Pokemon with a Fire- or Ground-type move prevent multiple Calm Minds from being executed Jirachi from obtaining multiple Calm Minds. Celebi, Execcutor, Latias, Latios, and Crookodile completely wall Jirachi if it chooses for to forgo Flash Cannon for Psychic. If Jirachi chooses Flash Cannon, Lanturn, Rotom-W, Swampert, Quagsire, and Magnezone wall Jirachi as well, though with enough Calm Minds, Jirachi can casually overcome these threats until its Substitute is unbreakable. Unaware Quagsire is a rather interesting counter, as it nullifies any boosts Jirachi has executed in the battle and handles Jirachi's unboosted Psychic and Flash Cannon with sick ease. Excadrill walls just about any combination of moves Jirachi chooses. Phazing is also a very serious problem when trying to set up; while Latias and Nidoqueen can force Jirachi out with Roar, Skarmory can survive one Thunderbolt at full health, thanks to Sturdy, and successfully use Whirlwind. Without enough Calm Mind boosts, Jirachi cannot deal enough damage to Scizor with Thunderbolt before Scizor can break its Substitute with U-Turn and switch to a counter, putting Jirachi in an awkward position. Finally, faster Encore and Taunt users pose an annoyance to Jirachi if it is caught using Substitute or Calm Mind. Jirachi especially must look out for Whimsicott, as Whimsicott can easily use Prankster Encore, Taunt, and Substitute to put Jirachi in a state of uselessness completely nullify Jirachi.</p>
<p>In order for Jirachi to function effectively, it must have adequate support. Unlike Jirachi’s other sets, it certainly can be paired with more defensive, stall-based teammates. Stealth Rock is essential to negate Skarmory’s Sturdy effect and prevent it from phazing Jirachi and its boosts away. Entry hazard support in general is beneficial so Jirachi can force special attackers out and shuffle the opposing team to score random KOes. Ironically, Skarmory is one of the best hazard layers to pair with Jirachi, as it counters many significant Ground-types and can heal off damage easily with Roost while laying down both Spikes and Stealth Rock. As an added benefit, Skarmory can abuse its Sturdy ability and Whirlwind to phaze out troublesome threats. Keep in mind that both Jirachi and Skarmory must play around their Fire-type weakness. Deoxys-D can also set up both aforementioned entry hazards with ease, and while it does not particularly compliment Jirachi defensively, it brushes off numerous attacks heartily and heals off damage. Toxic Spikes, while a tad unnecessary in comparison to Spikes and Stealth Rock, support allows Jirachi to stall out many threats as it sets up and sweeps, chipping the enemy’s health to KO range. </p>
<p>Jirachi also requires some offensive teammates to bring down its counters. Any levitating Dragon-type can easily absorb Jirachi’s two weaknesses and start a scuffle with powerful attacks. Dragonite, Salamence, Hydreigon, and Latios are all but just a few of many capable wallbreaking Dragon-types that can pave the way for Jirachi’s sweep and their own. With at least one Fire-type move and a Dragon-type STAB, these Dragon-types easily eliminate Jirachi’s counters. Bulky Dragon Dance Gyarados, with at least one boost, can defeat most of Jirachi’s problem opponents as well. If Jirachi finds that dealing with weather teams is a problem, Drizzle Politoed is most certainly an instant solution. With a Choice Scarf attached, Politoed is able to revenge kill many weather-reliant threats while changing the weather to stormy skies. With weather in mind, eliminating Excadrill is an extreme priority, since it walls Jirachi no matter which two moves it chooses. The problem of Whimsicott can unfortunately only be solved dealt with by battering it until it faints. Other than some specific counters such as Magic Guard and Magic Bounce users, you must assault and outsmart Whimsicott to kill.</p>
[SET]
name: Superachi! (Offensive Calm Mind)
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Psychic / Psyshock
move 3: Grass Knot / Thunderbolt You suggest in the analysis itself that Grass Knot is the primary option. It should be listed so
move 4: Hidden Power Fire
nature: Timid
item: Leftovers
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p> Although Jirachi is mostly designed to set up in front of defensively-oriented Pokemon, Superachi is quite the contrary. With an acute emphasis on the offensive side of the spectrum, Jirachi can now serve as both a sizeable sweeper and a lure to most its usual checks and counters. Tyranitar, Scizor, Ferrothorn, Quagsire, and Swampert become insulted are destroyed with a super effective move, exterminating them all after just one Calm Mind, giving Jirachi more opportunities to wreak havoc upon the rest of the opposing team. A transition from defense to offense is also safe due to Jirachi’s still-reliable bulk, despite the different investment and strategy.</p>
<p>The set is nothing complicated; Calm Mind is the main move on this set and is complimented by three coverage moves. Jirachi can choose between Psychic and Psyshock as its main STAB. Again, while the Psychic-type attacks does not have outstanding coverage by itself alone, with the other moves, it isespecially powerful these attacks can be very effective. While Psychic takes immediate advantage of specially-weak threats such as Gliscor, Psyshock is importantly secondary is a great alternative due to the ability to eliminate threats that are weaker on the physical side. Jirachi cannot set up on Blissey and other walls as easily, so Psyshock provides a way to dispose of them as soon as possible. Grass Knot accommodates Psychic and Psyshock by immediately disposing of the multiple Water- and Ground-types found in OU; especially Quagsire who would otherwise ignore Jirachi’s Calm Mind boosts with Unaware. Thunderbolt is an acceptable alternative to more reliably counter Skarmory and Vaporeon, though Tyranitar becomes more of a threat without Grass Knot. Finally, Hidden Power Fire completes the set’s coverage by removing Scizor, Ferrothorn, Forretress, and some Grass-types from play promptly. Hidden Power Fire also provides an alternate way of scratching Skarmory without the need for Thunderbolt.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>Like the moveset itself, the EVs are also pretty much straightforward. Here, Jirachi fully invests in Special Attack in order to attack assault with more zest. With a Timid nature, a Speed IV of 30, and maximum investment in Speed, Jirachi outruns Hydreigon and lower, while managing a Speed tie with positive base 100’s also using an imperfect Speed IV. Hidden Power Ice is worthy of mention to take out most Dragon-types and Gliscor in one hit, andkeep while keeping Jirachi’s Speed perfect (Hidden Power Fire forces Jirachi to use a 30 Speed IV). However, with its main options, Jirachi can already scratch hurt Gliscor and the Dragons with preceding damage, and some targets of Hidden Power Ice, such as Garchomp and Landuros, already outrun and defeat Jirachi.</p>
<p>Like similar offensive sets, Superachi has problems of its own, though it can easily lure in and eliminate its original checks and counters. Heatran makes a pessimistic counter to Jirachi due to a neutrality to Thunderbolt and an immunity or resistance to the rest of Jirachi’s moves. With powerful STAB Fire-type moves, Heatran puts Jirachi in a corner. If Jirachi chooses to forgo Psyshock for Psychic, Blissey and Chansey wall it eternally. In vice-versa, Gliscor and some physical walls make decent pivots against Psyshock, though a boosted Grass Knot or Hidden Power should easily take care of them with prior damage. As usual, Latias and Latios still make creditable counters to Calm Mind Jirachi due to Jirachi's lack of coverage against the both of them. With Calm Mind (and sometimes Roar), they can still set up alongside Jirachi, though it can usually win Calm Mind wars with Psyshock and its resistances to Dragon- and Psychic-type moves.</p>
<p>With any offensive Jirachi, entry hazards are at least helpful in obtaining some OHKOs Jirachi would not otherwise get. For example, with Stealth Rock on the field, Jirachi handily defeats Zapdos, Gyarados, and Chandelure with a boosted Psychic or Psyshock. A bulky Water-type, such as Suicune and Gyarados, ensures that Jirachi’s counters in Fire- and Ground-type foes are kept at bay with amaintained high health. As usual, levitating Dragon-types block resist Jirachi’s two weaknesses as well as upholding a good offensive presence against the opposing team. These Dragon-types also beat most bulky or fast Fire- and Ground-type Pokemon with their resistances and a powerful assault attacks. Powerful Strong Pursuit users, such as Scizor, Tyranitar, and Bisharp, handle Blissey, Chansey, Latias, and Latios fairly well. Since Superachi handily lures in and defeats many of its counters, teammates who originally had problems with these Pokemon make fine teammates as well. Kingdra, Tyranitar, Gyarados, Reuniclus, Dragonite, and many others appreciate the removal of their respective counters while givingfine offering their own offensive support.</p>
[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Iron Head
move 2: Ice Punch
move 3: Fire Punch
move 4: Trick / U-Turn / Thunderpunch
nature: Jolly
item: Choice Scarf
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>The last generation provided Jirachi two brand-new dangerous weapons that significantly broke its label as only a special attacker: Choice Scarf and Iron Head. With a Choice Scarf equipped, Jirachi gains the ability to revenge kill the majority of faster threats in OU, including but not limited to Latios, Latias, Tornadus, Thundurus, Weavile, most +1 Dragon Dancers, and Shell Breakers. Jirachi's resistances also help utilize this set to its fullest, as it can brush off many priority moves and come in on numerous attacks. However, one would be misguided as to treat this Jirachi as a sweeper or a significant offensive threat. Rather, consider Choice Scarf Jirachi more of a “supporting attacker". It does not have the immediate power to pose as a noteworthy physical sweeper or such.</p>
<p>Unlike other users of Choice Scarf, Jirachi makes great use of his unique ability, Serene Grace, with STAB Iron Head and its increased chance to continually flinch foes, sometimes even to the point of fainting. Fortunately, this alone makes up for Jirachi's just decent Attack stat. Along with Iron Head, Jirachi also has complimentary coverage options in Ice Punch and Fire Punch, accompanied by the user’s choice in the fourth slot. Fire Punch dents most foes that attempt to sponge Iron Head, such as Scizor and Ferrothorn, while Ice Punch eliminates most Dragon- and Flying-types, most notably Landuros, Dragonite, and Garchomp.</p>
<p>Trick allows Jirachi to cripple a would-be counter or defensive wall, while U-Turn allows Jirachi to switch out of its counters, which is helpful with some entry hazards on the field. Finally, ThunderPunch is optional to smack Gyarados and Jellicent, but has little uses outside of that this generation. Alternatively, Thunderbolt can be used over ThunderPunch to more reliably check Gyarados and Skarmory, provided Jirachi uses a Hasty or Naive Nature. However, like ThunderPunch, Thunderbolt is rather specific, and will be rather weak with zero Special Attack investment. Use Trick with consideration, as Jirachi will turn into a less effective attacker without Choice Scarf or an attack-boosting item.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>As far as counters go, the number of Pokemon that can set up on a single move is unfortunately numerous. Since Choice Scarf Jirachi operates as a supporting attacker rather than a major offensive force, not much support will actually be necessary. Teammates who can reliably counter Heatran, Ferrothorn, Scizor, Skarmory, Excadrill, and some Rotom Appliances are big helps. A strategy is to switch Jirachi out of something that forces it out, and switch in again to revenge kill the foe. Jirachi also appreciates a teammate who can pivot KO physical walls in general without difficulty. Entry hazards are fairly efficient with this Jirachi since it will be switching out often. For a quick way to set up hazards, Deoxys-S is usually the best to lay at least one layer of Spikes or Stealth Rock, while an attacking Infernape or Azelf provides both offensive and Stealth Rock support.</p>
[SET]
name: Substitute + Paralysis
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Thunder Wave / Body Slam
move 3: Iron Head
move 4: Fire Punch
nature: Jolly
item: Leftovers
evs: 80 HP / 252 Atk / 176 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This set is a quite different, albeit expected, approach to Jirachi. While the defensive sets are used for pure support in Wish and a paralysis-inducing move, Jirachi can also spread paralysis at a more offensive angle. With Substitute, Jirachi can ease prediction against a would-be threat and successfully paralyze it, proceeding to flinch it to death with Iron Head or forcing it to switch to another vulnerable Pokemon. The primary strategy is simple; Jirachi simply has to paralyze its switch-in, and either Substitute for prediction or switch to a counter. It can then come in again to proceed paralyzing to paralyze more foes and set up behind a Substitute. One may modify this strategy depending on the battle conditions. Another strategy is to keep using Substitute until the opponent is fully paralyzed, though Jirachi is better off switching to another teammate for the purpose of safety and conservation.</p>
<p>As mentioned before, Jirachi is very unique in comparison to other support Pokemon due to its access to Serene Grace, increasing Body Slam's chance to paralyze to 60%. Serene Grace also boosts Iron Head's chance to flinch to 60%. With Iron Head, the opposing Pokemon is forced to attack only 30% of the time with a 100% accurate move. This leaves Jirachi plenty of time to recover with Leftovers, and then switch to counters or set up Substitutes. With this in mind, Jirachi can be used in the long run and possibly sweep once its resistances checks and counters have been eliminated. Jirachi is given Fire Punch in the last slot to dent any Steel-types attempting to wall Iron Head, especially Ferrothorn who cannot break your Substitute.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The main EV spread allows Jirachi to outpace positive base 90 Pokemon so it isn't too reliant on paralysis. The Attack investment maximizes Jirachi's offensive power, and the rest is distributed to put into Hit Points for a steady amount of bulk. Since this set is dedicated towards paralyzing as many Pokemon as it can, Jirachi can opt for alternative spreads. Maximum Speed is generally not necessary, and Jirachi can invest in bulk as well, so a spread of 252 HP / 224 Atk / 32 Spe with an Adamant nature works fairly well. With 252 HP EVs, Seismic Toss users, like Dusclops and Blissey, cannot break your Jirachi’s Substitute and will be forced to retreat or take multiple Iron Heads. 224 Attack EVs give Jirachi a fair amount of offense, while 32 Speed EVs allow Jirachi to outspeed Jolly Tyranitar.</p>
<p>Also up to the user's preference is the decision between Body Slam and Thunder Wave. As explained before, Body Slam is what sets Jirachi apart from other support Pokemon, most of whom have access to Thunder Wave. However, if one finds the 60% chance of paralysis life-gambling, Thunder Wave is a perfectly acceptable alternative for reliability in general. Obviously, Thunder Wave cannot hit Ground-types like Garchomp and Excadrill for paralysis, so choose which whatever fits the team's needs. Drain Punch can be put in place of Fire Punch for a few reasons; it can still super effectively hit Steel-types while being similar to Fire Punch in terms of damage output. It can also hit Heatran, one of Jirachi's usual counters, for super effective damage. Drain Punch's side effect also allows gives Jirachi the pleasure of healing faster from its Substitutes ability to restore health. With Drain Punch, however, Jirachi loses coverage against Scizor and Ferrothorn, two of which are normally hindrances to offensive teams. As a special note, Secret Power can be a viable alternative to Body Slam if one finds it difficult to obtain Body Slam on a cartridge.</p>
<p>While this set is extremely difficult for other players to work around, it definitely has some hard counters. For this Jirachi to be effective, Skarmory, Hippowdon, Toxic Heal Gliscor, Heatran, Empoleon, Tentacruel, Chandelure, and Rotom-W all must be eliminated. In fact, physical walls, Water-, and Fire-type Pokemon in general make good pivots checks to take Iron Head and Fire Punch, though most of them can be all are crippled by paralysis. Again, a levitating Dragon-type works perfectly well with this Jirachi. Latias and Latios setting can set up Calm Minds in front of most of its Jirachi’s counters, while Dragonite and Salamence can break walls more easily with the extra paralysis support Jirachi provides. As a special mention, Togekiss absolutely also appreciates paralysis support and can use a strategy of "paraflinching" alongside Jirachi. Defensively, it compliments helps with Jirachi's Ground-type weakness while Jirachi resists the Rock-type weakness of Togekiss, and Togekiss can sweep more easily with any of its more offensive sets. On a dedicated paralysis team, Thundurus and Whimsicott are generally the best secondary paralysis-inducers because of their Prankster ability. Whimsicott in particular saves Jirachi from being decimated by Excadrill while being able to paralyze all types with Stun Spore.</p>
[Other Options]
<p>Jirachi has a surplus of interesting options to play with, though its more effective strategies have been listed. Drain Punch is an odd option to heal off damage and super effectively hit Steel-types. It should be noted that Drain Punch has been increased to 75 Base Power in the generation shift, so it can be actually usable is now competitively viable in Jirachi’s physically-based sets. Energy Ball is an option for special sets; though Grass Knot usually hits heavier opponents for greater damage is more useful as it hits Jirachi’s counters for more damage, and Energy Ball damage output can be easily compensated with Jirachi's Psychic-type move.</p>
<p>With Drizzle support from Politoed, Jirachi can opt to run Thunder instead of Thunderbolt for the higher base power and higher chance to paralyze opponents. With Serene Grace factored in, most opponents switching in to Jirachi must be cautioned be aware of a 60% chance to be paralyzed high chance of paralysis. Also with Drizzle support, Jirachi has its Fire-type weakness halved, and can also run Water Pulse. Factoring in rain, Water Pulse technically has a 90 base power, and with Serene Grace, it has a high chance of inducing confusion, making it an option worth considering for coverage. If you are opting to run Politoed on a team, keep in mind that Jirachi very much benefits from it a lot.</p>
<p>Last generation, Jirachi could lure counters and checks and eliminate them by using a mixed set. This mixed set in particular used Iron Head, two elemental punches, and a special move, along with a Naive nature, an Expert Belt, and maximum Speed and Attack. This set could be used to lure and defeat specific threats in the metagame, but is generally weak against the opponent once the special move has been revealed. On this note, Jirachi may choose to utilize a mixed Superachi set as well. With a Naive nature, 120 Attack EVs, Life Orb and Iron Head, Jirachi 2HKOs knocks many counters into the KO range for its special moves. It does not have as much longevity as the original Calm Mind sets due to Life Orb, but it is still an option for surprise value.</p>
<p>Jirachi is also abundant in the support department. With Cosmic Power, Jirachi can run a purely defensive set with Wish and Toxic as compliments. Keep in mind that Jirachi is in danger of Steel-types and Taunt users if Cosmic Power is considered. Jirachi also has access to dual screens, which is perfectly acceptable with U-Turn and Jirachi's good defensive typing. Safeguard prevents status, but it is better off left to a dedicated user of stall or defense. Magic Coat is an odd support option that allows Jirachi to bypass attempts to set up hazards or cripple Jirachi with status moves. For field moves, Jirachi also has Gravity and Trick Room. Whereas Trick Room is decent with Jirachi's Wish and U-Turn, Gravity is generally considered a negligible gimmick. Stealth Rock may be used on any of Jirachi's support sets, but Jirachi generally cannot risk moveslot syndrome.</p>
[Checks and Counters]
<p>By virtue of its near-limitless diversity, it is extremely hard difficult to find a "hard counter" to Jirachi. Due to the unpredictable nature of Jirachi and the potency of all its sets, prediction is normally the first step to defeating it. Arguably, Jirachi's specially-based sets are the most difficult to challenge. While Substitute + Calm Mind makes many weak attackers and Seismic Toss-reliant Pokemon struggle, its more offensive special sets can put a large dent in any team immediately. Counters to these kind ofsets extensively liesin sets differ depending on the combination of moves Jirachi chooses. If Jirachi isn't using Psyshock or the Substitute + Calm Mind set, Blissey and Chansey sponge its Special Attacks all day. If Skarmory is at full health, it can phaze out Jirachi and survive a Thunderbolt thanks to Sturdy. If Whimsicott catches Jirachi using a support move, Grass Knot, or Thunderbolt, it can use Prankster Encore to lock Jirachi into that move and drain its health with Leech Seed. Additionally, Krookodile is immune to the combination of Psychic + Thunderbolt. Speaking of fellow Ground-types, Excadrill and Landuros, two common sweepers on a Sandstorm team, can switch into a predicted Thunderbolt, Psychic, or Thunder Wave and easily OHKO with Earthquake. Finally, Latias and Latios both resist Jirachi's most common special attacking moves and and set up Calm Minds alongside it, using Roar to remove its boosts if possible.</p>
<p>Physically based sets are a bit more comfortable slightly easier to check. Due to Serene Grace and Iron Head's high chance to flinch, however, any Pokemon that is paralyzed or is slower than Jirachi risks being flinched to death. Rotom-W, Rotom-H, Heatran, and Empoleon are all x4 resistant to Iron Head, and can take most of Jirachi's other attacks comfortably as well. Bulky Water-types also take minimal damage from Iron Head, and most of them can take a ThunderPunch and heal it off. Most physically defensive Steel-types (such as Skarmory) and Ground-types (Hippowdon) also do a good job of sponging physical Jirachi's attacks, though they risk a burn from Fire Punch should Jirachi run it. Ferrothorn can wall any set that lacks Fire Punch and can either sets up Spikes or uses Leech Seed. Ferrothorn also has the benefit of chipping Jirachi's health away with Iron Thorns. Faster Pokemon risk being paralyzed; however, opponents such as Garchomp, Landuros, and Excadrill can all come in comfortably on Thunder Wave and OHKO with a super-effective move.</p>
<p>Despite its versatility, Jirachi does has have some very general checks and counters. Heatran can come in on practically any set lacking Hidden Power Ground and immediately threaten with a STAB Fire Blast. Heatran also doesn't mind paralysis too much. Volcarona can also threaten any Jirachi set, take little damage, and threaten with a STAB or a burn from Flame Body; it should be noted that Volcarona minds paralysis and Stealth Rock damage much more than Heatran as it takes little damage from Jirachi’s common attacks, and it can threaten Jirachi with a STAB Fire-type attack. Volcarona does hate paralysis however, so be sure to scout the set. Magnezone, particularly, is a very special counter; as it can trap Jirachi in the battlefield using its Magnet Pull ability and swiftly eliminate it with its choice of Thunderbolt or the correct Hidden Power. Most Jirachi sets (except for those running a good Hidden Power and Fire Punch) are rather unprepared for Magnezone. Like Heatran, Magnezone doesn't mind Thunder Wave drastically too much. Therefore, unless Jirachi has conjured built up enough Calm Minds or has a super effective move, Magnezone is forever a thorn in Jirachi's eye.</p>
<p>Jirachi’s plethora of options and possibilities are not the only things that benefit Jirachi this generation. With the presence of classic and new threats in the land of the Overused, such as Latios, Latias, Reuniclus, Ferrothorn, and Outrage users, Jirachi bravely stand up against many of them. Its Steel- / Psychic- typing grants Jirachi nigh eight resistances and a mere two weaknesses, allowing Jirachi to sponge many of the omnipresent Dragon-, Rock-, and Ice-type attacks of OU. On top of this, Jirachi’s typing also grants it good access to the battlefield means that it is hard to stall out, being immune to both Sandstorm and Toxic Spikes and allowing it many opportunities to switch in and wreck the opposing team. To put salt in the wounds, the Wish Pokemon, of course, has access to Wish, granting consistent, reliable healing amongstfor itself and its teammates. With all these traits in consideration, Jirachi can easily fit on and support any team with little issue.</p>
[SET]
name: Specially Defensive
move 1: Iron Head
move 2: Body Slam / Thunder Wave
move 3: Wish
move 4: Fire Punch / Protect
nature: Careful
item: Leftovers
evs: 252 HP / 224 SpD / 32 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This set utilizes Jirachi’s access to multiple support moves and good defensive typing, grantinggiving Jirachi just two weaknesses and a goodhuge number of resistances, especiallymost importantly against Dragon-type moves. With investment in Hit Points and Special Defense, Jirachi can cushion various Special attacks with ease and providewhile providing eloquent support with paralysis and a 200 Hit Point Wish. For example, Jirachi makes a perfectly viable switch-in to Timid Choice Specs Latios' Draco Meteor, losing only 31.4% - 37.1% of its health when hit. This means that Specially Defensive Jirachi can sponge nearly any neutral or resisted hit below this specific attack, one of the most powerful (if not the most dangerous!) attacks in OU. For a less mathematical example of Jirachi's Wish, a Pokemon with around an uninvested base 80 HP (such as Latios, Thundurus, and Volcarona) will recover about two-thirds of its health, which is a considerable improvement in comparison to last generation.</p>
<p>Jirachi is unique when compared to other paralysis-inducers,withthanks to its ability, Serene Grace, Body Slam, and Iron Head. Body Slam is primary over Thunder Wave because, whereas a multitude of support Pokémon can abuse Thunder Wave, Jirachi can utilize Body Slam to paralyze threats that Thunder Wave cannot, most commonlymainly Ground-type Pokémon and faster Taunt users. Notably, Serene Grace doubles Body Slam’s chance to paralyze to a consistent 60%, giving ample time to paralyze a threat, courtesy of Jirachi’s bulk allowing Jirachi to paralyze a threat most of the time, thanks to its great bulk. In any case, Thunder Wave is always an option over Body Slam for a guaranteed paralysis move. Keep in mind that most support Pokémon hashave access to Thunder Wave, and Body Slam differentiates Jirachi from its competition. Another trait that Jirachi has over other support Pokemon is Iron Head; this move is complimentary with paralysis and Serene Grace to attempt to flinch and weaken and opponent in KO range for another Pokemon as Jirachi can slowly chip away at an opponent, weakening it for another Pokemon to KO. Iron Head may also allow Jirachi a “free turn” for Wish healing, provided the opponent is flinched. However, this Jirachi should be used defensively at first, so Iron Head usage should be kept to a minimum because of zero investment in Attack the zero attack investment.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The last slot is entirely up to the user. Fire Punch provides a pivot againstscares away Scizor and Ferrothorn, both of which are significant defensive threats. Protect provides Jirachi with a way to scout for incoming attacks and grants healing allows Jirachi to be safely healed after Wish has been used. With Protect, Jirachi will not have to rely on Iron Head as much, but it cannot check Scizor or Ferrothorn. U-Turn is also an option to pass Jirachi’s Wishes safely to another teammate; with Jirachi’s relatively slow Speed without investment and good bulk, it is nearly guaranteed to heal another teammate successfully without the recipient taking damage.</p>
<p>The given EVs allow maximum special bulk while outrunning Jolly Tyranitar. Significant Speed investment is not necessary due to Body Slam or Thunder Wave. Alternatively, one may opt for a more Physically Defensive spread of 240 HP / 160 Def / 76 SpD / 32 Spe with an Impish nature. This spread allows Jirachi to better take physical attacks while maintaining a a reasonable amount of special bulk. It is a perfectly viable alternative over the main spread, depending on the team's needs.</p>
<p>Jirachi provides support in the forms of Wish and a paralysis-inducing move, allowing slower, but powerful, teammates to thrive. Defensively-speaking, a levitating Dragon-type is a perfect team member to receive Jirachi's support; Latios, Latias, Dragonite, Salamence, and Hydreigon are all immune or resistant to Jirachi's weaknesses. Being the powerhouses they are, they can put a dent in the opposing team while being kept alive by Wish. Gyarados, while not a Dragon-type, operates similarly to them and can provide an offensive and/or defensive approach to the team with Dragon Dance, Dragon Tail, and Intimidate. Jirachi in return can easily take the Dragon-, Ice-, and Rock-type moves aimed at all of them and repeat the support process.</p>
[SET]
name: SubCM
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Calm Mind
move 3: Thunderbolt
move 4: Flash Cannon / Psychic / Psyshock
nature: Timid
item: Leftovers
evs: 252 HP / 4 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Being Jirachi’s flagship set in the previous generations, Substitute paired with Calm Mind is still an ably a viable strategy on Jirachi due to the ability to break apart bulky and stall-oriented teams. With good defensive typing and maximum Hit Point investment, Jirachi can set up on multiple Pokemon in OU and proceed to sweep after a few boosts. Unlike other Calm Mind boosters, Jirachi has convenient immunities to passive damage, namely Toxic Spikes and Sandstorm. The magic of this set is that it easily forces defensive Pokemon, like Celebi, Blissey, Chansey, Jellicent, opposing Jirachi, and Porygon2, to struggle while it sets up, making a sweep all the more easier. The strategy is fairly simple; Jirachi should come in on a resisted attack or support move, and then use Substitute to identify the opponent’s response to it. From there, Jirachi has a few options: set up Calm Mind as the opponent switches to an attacker or initial check, or immediately hit-and-run if the counter is a significant threat.</p>
<p>Substitute and Calm Mind are obviously the integral parts of the set. Whereas Substitute blocks status and scouts for counters and checks, Calm Mind allows Jirachi to be more of a threat, offensively and defensively. For its attacking moves, Thunderbolt is necessary to achieve general coverage. Flash Cannon is the primary STAB option to ensure overall coverage. Flash Cannon notably allows Jirachi to 2HKO Tyranitar, who would otherwise wall it if Jirachi has not conjured many boosts. Psychic can better handle some other significant OU threats, such as Conkeldurr, Venusaur, and some Fire-type Pokemon. Finally, Psyshock gives Jirachi more momentum against physically-weak Pokemon and opposing Calm Mind users, especially Reuniclus and Latias. However, with Substitute and Flash Cannon or Psychic, Jirachi already defeats Chansey and Blissey, the two premier special walls. Choose which STAB move acts in the team's favor most.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>Maximum EV investment in HP is very necessary on this set to boost Jirachi's already stellar great bulk and give it time to Calm Mind. With maximum HP, Jirachi can utilize 101 HP Substitutes, which Seismic Toss users, such as Dusclops and Blissey, cannot break with one Seismic Toss. In addition, maximum speed investment with a Timid nature allows Jirachi to tie with positive base 100 Pokemon, ensuring it will not be revenge killed easily. The speed investment, however, is not necessary; Jirachi can be modified to outrun a certain Speed tier, putting the leftover EVs into Defense or Special Attack. Investing in Defense means that Jirachi can prepare for its sweep in front of weaker physical attacks.</p>
<p>Because Jirachi has to rely on multiple boosts and two attacks to be significantly threatening, it will run into several notable obstacles. Against offensive teams in general, faster Pokemon with a Fire- or Ground-type move prevent multiple Calm Minds from being executed Jirachi from obtaining multiple Calm Minds. Celebi, Execcutor, Latias, Latios, and Crookodile completely wall Jirachi if it chooses for to forgo Flash Cannon for Psychic. If Jirachi chooses Flash Cannon, Lanturn, Rotom-W, Swampert, Quagsire, and Magnezone wall Jirachi as well, though with enough Calm Minds, Jirachi can casually overcome these threats until its Substitute is unbreakable. Unaware Quagsire is a rather interesting counter, as it nullifies any boosts Jirachi has executed in the battle and handles Jirachi's unboosted Psychic and Flash Cannon with sick ease. Excadrill walls just about any combination of moves Jirachi chooses. Phazing is also a very serious problem when trying to set up; while Latias and Nidoqueen can force Jirachi out with Roar, Skarmory can survive one Thunderbolt at full health, thanks to Sturdy, and successfully use Whirlwind. Without enough Calm Mind boosts, Jirachi cannot deal enough damage to Scizor with Thunderbolt before Scizor can break its Substitute with U-Turn and switch to a counter, putting Jirachi in an awkward position. Finally, faster Encore and Taunt users pose an annoyance to Jirachi if it is caught using Substitute or Calm Mind. Jirachi especially must look out for Whimsicott, as Whimsicott can easily use Prankster Encore, Taunt, and Substitute to put Jirachi in a state of uselessness completely nullify Jirachi.</p>
<p>In order for Jirachi to function effectively, it must have adequate support. Unlike Jirachi’s other sets, it certainly can be paired with more defensive, stall-based teammates. Stealth Rock is essential to negate Skarmory’s Sturdy effect and prevent it from phazing Jirachi and its boosts away. Entry hazard support in general is beneficial so Jirachi can force special attackers out and shuffle the opposing team to score random KOes. Ironically, Skarmory is one of the best hazard layers to pair with Jirachi, as it counters many significant Ground-types and can heal off damage easily with Roost while laying down both Spikes and Stealth Rock. As an added benefit, Skarmory can abuse its Sturdy ability and Whirlwind to phaze out troublesome threats. Keep in mind that both Jirachi and Skarmory must play around their Fire-type weakness. Deoxys-D can also set up both aforementioned entry hazards with ease, and while it does not particularly compliment Jirachi defensively, it brushes off numerous attacks heartily and heals off damage. Toxic Spikes, while a tad unnecessary in comparison to Spikes and Stealth Rock, support allows Jirachi to stall out many threats as it sets up and sweeps, chipping the enemy’s health to KO range. </p>
<p>Jirachi also requires some offensive teammates to bring down its counters. Any levitating Dragon-type can easily absorb Jirachi’s two weaknesses and start a scuffle with powerful attacks. Dragonite, Salamence, Hydreigon, and Latios are all but just a few of many capable wallbreaking Dragon-types that can pave the way for Jirachi’s sweep and their own. With at least one Fire-type move and a Dragon-type STAB, these Dragon-types easily eliminate Jirachi’s counters. Bulky Dragon Dance Gyarados, with at least one boost, can defeat most of Jirachi’s problem opponents as well. If Jirachi finds that dealing with weather teams is a problem, Drizzle Politoed is most certainly an instant solution. With a Choice Scarf attached, Politoed is able to revenge kill many weather-reliant threats while changing the weather to stormy skies. With weather in mind, eliminating Excadrill is an extreme priority, since it walls Jirachi no matter which two moves it chooses. The problem of Whimsicott can unfortunately only be solved dealt with by battering it until it faints. Other than some specific counters such as Magic Guard and Magic Bounce users, you must assault and outsmart Whimsicott to kill.</p>
[SET]
name: Superachi! (Offensive Calm Mind)
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Psychic / Psyshock
move 3: Grass Knot / Thunderbolt You suggest in the analysis itself that Grass Knot is the primary option. It should be listed so
move 4: Hidden Power Fire
nature: Timid
item: Leftovers
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p> Although Jirachi is mostly designed to set up in front of defensively-oriented Pokemon, Superachi is quite the contrary. With an acute emphasis on the offensive side of the spectrum, Jirachi can now serve as both a sizeable sweeper and a lure to most its usual checks and counters. Tyranitar, Scizor, Ferrothorn, Quagsire, and Swampert become insulted are destroyed with a super effective move, exterminating them all after just one Calm Mind, giving Jirachi more opportunities to wreak havoc upon the rest of the opposing team. A transition from defense to offense is also safe due to Jirachi’s still-reliable bulk, despite the different investment and strategy.</p>
<p>The set is nothing complicated; Calm Mind is the main move on this set and is complimented by three coverage moves. Jirachi can choose between Psychic and Psyshock as its main STAB. Again, while the Psychic-type attacks does not have outstanding coverage by itself alone, with the other moves, it isespecially powerful these attacks can be very effective. While Psychic takes immediate advantage of specially-weak threats such as Gliscor, Psyshock is importantly secondary is a great alternative due to the ability to eliminate threats that are weaker on the physical side. Jirachi cannot set up on Blissey and other walls as easily, so Psyshock provides a way to dispose of them as soon as possible. Grass Knot accommodates Psychic and Psyshock by immediately disposing of the multiple Water- and Ground-types found in OU; especially Quagsire who would otherwise ignore Jirachi’s Calm Mind boosts with Unaware. Thunderbolt is an acceptable alternative to more reliably counter Skarmory and Vaporeon, though Tyranitar becomes more of a threat without Grass Knot. Finally, Hidden Power Fire completes the set’s coverage by removing Scizor, Ferrothorn, Forretress, and some Grass-types from play promptly. Hidden Power Fire also provides an alternate way of scratching Skarmory without the need for Thunderbolt.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>Like the moveset itself, the EVs are also pretty much straightforward. Here, Jirachi fully invests in Special Attack in order to attack assault with more zest. With a Timid nature, a Speed IV of 30, and maximum investment in Speed, Jirachi outruns Hydreigon and lower, while managing a Speed tie with positive base 100’s also using an imperfect Speed IV. Hidden Power Ice is worthy of mention to take out most Dragon-types and Gliscor in one hit, andkeep while keeping Jirachi’s Speed perfect (Hidden Power Fire forces Jirachi to use a 30 Speed IV). However, with its main options, Jirachi can already scratch hurt Gliscor and the Dragons with preceding damage, and some targets of Hidden Power Ice, such as Garchomp and Landuros, already outrun and defeat Jirachi.</p>
<p>Like similar offensive sets, Superachi has problems of its own, though it can easily lure in and eliminate its original checks and counters. Heatran makes a pessimistic counter to Jirachi due to a neutrality to Thunderbolt and an immunity or resistance to the rest of Jirachi’s moves. With powerful STAB Fire-type moves, Heatran puts Jirachi in a corner. If Jirachi chooses to forgo Psyshock for Psychic, Blissey and Chansey wall it eternally. In vice-versa, Gliscor and some physical walls make decent pivots against Psyshock, though a boosted Grass Knot or Hidden Power should easily take care of them with prior damage. As usual, Latias and Latios still make creditable counters to Calm Mind Jirachi due to Jirachi's lack of coverage against the both of them. With Calm Mind (and sometimes Roar), they can still set up alongside Jirachi, though it can usually win Calm Mind wars with Psyshock and its resistances to Dragon- and Psychic-type moves.</p>
<p>With any offensive Jirachi, entry hazards are at least helpful in obtaining some OHKOs Jirachi would not otherwise get. For example, with Stealth Rock on the field, Jirachi handily defeats Zapdos, Gyarados, and Chandelure with a boosted Psychic or Psyshock. A bulky Water-type, such as Suicune and Gyarados, ensures that Jirachi’s counters in Fire- and Ground-type foes are kept at bay with amaintained high health. As usual, levitating Dragon-types block resist Jirachi’s two weaknesses as well as upholding a good offensive presence against the opposing team. These Dragon-types also beat most bulky or fast Fire- and Ground-type Pokemon with their resistances and a powerful assault attacks. Powerful Strong Pursuit users, such as Scizor, Tyranitar, and Bisharp, handle Blissey, Chansey, Latias, and Latios fairly well. Since Superachi handily lures in and defeats many of its counters, teammates who originally had problems with these Pokemon make fine teammates as well. Kingdra, Tyranitar, Gyarados, Reuniclus, Dragonite, and many others appreciate the removal of their respective counters while givingfine offering their own offensive support.</p>
[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Iron Head
move 2: Ice Punch
move 3: Fire Punch
move 4: Trick / U-Turn / Thunderpunch
nature: Jolly
item: Choice Scarf
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>The last generation provided Jirachi two brand-new dangerous weapons that significantly broke its label as only a special attacker: Choice Scarf and Iron Head. With a Choice Scarf equipped, Jirachi gains the ability to revenge kill the majority of faster threats in OU, including but not limited to Latios, Latias, Tornadus, Thundurus, Weavile, most +1 Dragon Dancers, and Shell Breakers. Jirachi's resistances also help utilize this set to its fullest, as it can brush off many priority moves and come in on numerous attacks. However, one would be misguided as to treat this Jirachi as a sweeper or a significant offensive threat. Rather, consider Choice Scarf Jirachi more of a “supporting attacker". It does not have the immediate power to pose as a noteworthy physical sweeper or such.</p>
<p>Unlike other users of Choice Scarf, Jirachi makes great use of his unique ability, Serene Grace, with STAB Iron Head and its increased chance to continually flinch foes, sometimes even to the point of fainting. Fortunately, this alone makes up for Jirachi's just decent Attack stat. Along with Iron Head, Jirachi also has complimentary coverage options in Ice Punch and Fire Punch, accompanied by the user’s choice in the fourth slot. Fire Punch dents most foes that attempt to sponge Iron Head, such as Scizor and Ferrothorn, while Ice Punch eliminates most Dragon- and Flying-types, most notably Landuros, Dragonite, and Garchomp.</p>
<p>Trick allows Jirachi to cripple a would-be counter or defensive wall, while U-Turn allows Jirachi to switch out of its counters, which is helpful with some entry hazards on the field. Finally, ThunderPunch is optional to smack Gyarados and Jellicent, but has little uses outside of that this generation. Alternatively, Thunderbolt can be used over ThunderPunch to more reliably check Gyarados and Skarmory, provided Jirachi uses a Hasty or Naive Nature. However, like ThunderPunch, Thunderbolt is rather specific, and will be rather weak with zero Special Attack investment. Use Trick with consideration, as Jirachi will turn into a less effective attacker without Choice Scarf or an attack-boosting item.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>As far as counters go, the number of Pokemon that can set up on a single move is unfortunately numerous. Since Choice Scarf Jirachi operates as a supporting attacker rather than a major offensive force, not much support will actually be necessary. Teammates who can reliably counter Heatran, Ferrothorn, Scizor, Skarmory, Excadrill, and some Rotom Appliances are big helps. A strategy is to switch Jirachi out of something that forces it out, and switch in again to revenge kill the foe. Jirachi also appreciates a teammate who can pivot KO physical walls in general without difficulty. Entry hazards are fairly efficient with this Jirachi since it will be switching out often. For a quick way to set up hazards, Deoxys-S is usually the best to lay at least one layer of Spikes or Stealth Rock, while an attacking Infernape or Azelf provides both offensive and Stealth Rock support.</p>
[SET]
name: Substitute + Paralysis
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Thunder Wave / Body Slam
move 3: Iron Head
move 4: Fire Punch
nature: Jolly
item: Leftovers
evs: 80 HP / 252 Atk / 176 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This set is a quite different, albeit expected, approach to Jirachi. While the defensive sets are used for pure support in Wish and a paralysis-inducing move, Jirachi can also spread paralysis at a more offensive angle. With Substitute, Jirachi can ease prediction against a would-be threat and successfully paralyze it, proceeding to flinch it to death with Iron Head or forcing it to switch to another vulnerable Pokemon. The primary strategy is simple; Jirachi simply has to paralyze its switch-in, and either Substitute for prediction or switch to a counter. It can then come in again to proceed paralyzing to paralyze more foes and set up behind a Substitute. One may modify this strategy depending on the battle conditions. Another strategy is to keep using Substitute until the opponent is fully paralyzed, though Jirachi is better off switching to another teammate for the purpose of safety and conservation.</p>
<p>As mentioned before, Jirachi is very unique in comparison to other support Pokemon due to its access to Serene Grace, increasing Body Slam's chance to paralyze to 60%. Serene Grace also boosts Iron Head's chance to flinch to 60%. With Iron Head, the opposing Pokemon is forced to attack only 30% of the time with a 100% accurate move. This leaves Jirachi plenty of time to recover with Leftovers, and then switch to counters or set up Substitutes. With this in mind, Jirachi can be used in the long run and possibly sweep once its resistances checks and counters have been eliminated. Jirachi is given Fire Punch in the last slot to dent any Steel-types attempting to wall Iron Head, especially Ferrothorn who cannot break your Substitute.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The main EV spread allows Jirachi to outpace positive base 90 Pokemon so it isn't too reliant on paralysis. The Attack investment maximizes Jirachi's offensive power, and the rest is distributed to put into Hit Points for a steady amount of bulk. Since this set is dedicated towards paralyzing as many Pokemon as it can, Jirachi can opt for alternative spreads. Maximum Speed is generally not necessary, and Jirachi can invest in bulk as well, so a spread of 252 HP / 224 Atk / 32 Spe with an Adamant nature works fairly well. With 252 HP EVs, Seismic Toss users, like Dusclops and Blissey, cannot break your Jirachi’s Substitute and will be forced to retreat or take multiple Iron Heads. 224 Attack EVs give Jirachi a fair amount of offense, while 32 Speed EVs allow Jirachi to outspeed Jolly Tyranitar.</p>
<p>Also up to the user's preference is the decision between Body Slam and Thunder Wave. As explained before, Body Slam is what sets Jirachi apart from other support Pokemon, most of whom have access to Thunder Wave. However, if one finds the 60% chance of paralysis life-gambling, Thunder Wave is a perfectly acceptable alternative for reliability in general. Obviously, Thunder Wave cannot hit Ground-types like Garchomp and Excadrill for paralysis, so choose which whatever fits the team's needs. Drain Punch can be put in place of Fire Punch for a few reasons; it can still super effectively hit Steel-types while being similar to Fire Punch in terms of damage output. It can also hit Heatran, one of Jirachi's usual counters, for super effective damage. Drain Punch's side effect also allows gives Jirachi the pleasure of healing faster from its Substitutes ability to restore health. With Drain Punch, however, Jirachi loses coverage against Scizor and Ferrothorn, two of which are normally hindrances to offensive teams. As a special note, Secret Power can be a viable alternative to Body Slam if one finds it difficult to obtain Body Slam on a cartridge.</p>
<p>While this set is extremely difficult for other players to work around, it definitely has some hard counters. For this Jirachi to be effective, Skarmory, Hippowdon, Toxic Heal Gliscor, Heatran, Empoleon, Tentacruel, Chandelure, and Rotom-W all must be eliminated. In fact, physical walls, Water-, and Fire-type Pokemon in general make good pivots checks to take Iron Head and Fire Punch, though most of them can be all are crippled by paralysis. Again, a levitating Dragon-type works perfectly well with this Jirachi. Latias and Latios setting can set up Calm Minds in front of most of its Jirachi’s counters, while Dragonite and Salamence can break walls more easily with the extra paralysis support Jirachi provides. As a special mention, Togekiss absolutely also appreciates paralysis support and can use a strategy of "paraflinching" alongside Jirachi. Defensively, it compliments helps with Jirachi's Ground-type weakness while Jirachi resists the Rock-type weakness of Togekiss, and Togekiss can sweep more easily with any of its more offensive sets. On a dedicated paralysis team, Thundurus and Whimsicott are generally the best secondary paralysis-inducers because of their Prankster ability. Whimsicott in particular saves Jirachi from being decimated by Excadrill while being able to paralyze all types with Stun Spore.</p>
[Other Options]
<p>Jirachi has a surplus of interesting options to play with, though its more effective strategies have been listed. Drain Punch is an odd option to heal off damage and super effectively hit Steel-types. It should be noted that Drain Punch has been increased to 75 Base Power in the generation shift, so it can be actually usable is now competitively viable in Jirachi’s physically-based sets. Energy Ball is an option for special sets; though Grass Knot usually hits heavier opponents for greater damage is more useful as it hits Jirachi’s counters for more damage, and Energy Ball damage output can be easily compensated with Jirachi's Psychic-type move.</p>
<p>With Drizzle support from Politoed, Jirachi can opt to run Thunder instead of Thunderbolt for the higher base power and higher chance to paralyze opponents. With Serene Grace factored in, most opponents switching in to Jirachi must be cautioned be aware of a 60% chance to be paralyzed high chance of paralysis. Also with Drizzle support, Jirachi has its Fire-type weakness halved, and can also run Water Pulse. Factoring in rain, Water Pulse technically has a 90 base power, and with Serene Grace, it has a high chance of inducing confusion, making it an option worth considering for coverage. If you are opting to run Politoed on a team, keep in mind that Jirachi very much benefits from it a lot.</p>
<p>Last generation, Jirachi could lure counters and checks and eliminate them by using a mixed set. This mixed set in particular used Iron Head, two elemental punches, and a special move, along with a Naive nature, an Expert Belt, and maximum Speed and Attack. This set could be used to lure and defeat specific threats in the metagame, but is generally weak against the opponent once the special move has been revealed. On this note, Jirachi may choose to utilize a mixed Superachi set as well. With a Naive nature, 120 Attack EVs, Life Orb and Iron Head, Jirachi 2HKOs knocks many counters into the KO range for its special moves. It does not have as much longevity as the original Calm Mind sets due to Life Orb, but it is still an option for surprise value.</p>
<p>Jirachi is also abundant in the support department. With Cosmic Power, Jirachi can run a purely defensive set with Wish and Toxic as compliments. Keep in mind that Jirachi is in danger of Steel-types and Taunt users if Cosmic Power is considered. Jirachi also has access to dual screens, which is perfectly acceptable with U-Turn and Jirachi's good defensive typing. Safeguard prevents status, but it is better off left to a dedicated user of stall or defense. Magic Coat is an odd support option that allows Jirachi to bypass attempts to set up hazards or cripple Jirachi with status moves. For field moves, Jirachi also has Gravity and Trick Room. Whereas Trick Room is decent with Jirachi's Wish and U-Turn, Gravity is generally considered a negligible gimmick. Stealth Rock may be used on any of Jirachi's support sets, but Jirachi generally cannot risk moveslot syndrome.</p>
[Checks and Counters]
<p>By virtue of its near-limitless diversity, it is extremely hard difficult to find a "hard counter" to Jirachi. Due to the unpredictable nature of Jirachi and the potency of all its sets, prediction is normally the first step to defeating it. Arguably, Jirachi's specially-based sets are the most difficult to challenge. While Substitute + Calm Mind makes many weak attackers and Seismic Toss-reliant Pokemon struggle, its more offensive special sets can put a large dent in any team immediately. Counters to these kind ofsets extensively liesin sets differ depending on the combination of moves Jirachi chooses. If Jirachi isn't using Psyshock or the Substitute + Calm Mind set, Blissey and Chansey sponge its Special Attacks all day. If Skarmory is at full health, it can phaze out Jirachi and survive a Thunderbolt thanks to Sturdy. If Whimsicott catches Jirachi using a support move, Grass Knot, or Thunderbolt, it can use Prankster Encore to lock Jirachi into that move and drain its health with Leech Seed. Additionally, Krookodile is immune to the combination of Psychic + Thunderbolt. Speaking of fellow Ground-types, Excadrill and Landuros, two common sweepers on a Sandstorm team, can switch into a predicted Thunderbolt, Psychic, or Thunder Wave and easily OHKO with Earthquake. Finally, Latias and Latios both resist Jirachi's most common special attacking moves and and set up Calm Minds alongside it, using Roar to remove its boosts if possible.</p>
<p>Physically based sets are a bit more comfortable slightly easier to check. Due to Serene Grace and Iron Head's high chance to flinch, however, any Pokemon that is paralyzed or is slower than Jirachi risks being flinched to death. Rotom-W, Rotom-H, Heatran, and Empoleon are all x4 resistant to Iron Head, and can take most of Jirachi's other attacks comfortably as well. Bulky Water-types also take minimal damage from Iron Head, and most of them can take a ThunderPunch and heal it off. Most physically defensive Steel-types (such as Skarmory) and Ground-types (Hippowdon) also do a good job of sponging physical Jirachi's attacks, though they risk a burn from Fire Punch should Jirachi run it. Ferrothorn can wall any set that lacks Fire Punch and can either sets up Spikes or uses Leech Seed. Ferrothorn also has the benefit of chipping Jirachi's health away with Iron Thorns. Faster Pokemon risk being paralyzed; however, opponents such as Garchomp, Landuros, and Excadrill can all come in comfortably on Thunder Wave and OHKO with a super-effective move.</p>
<p>Despite its versatility, Jirachi does has have some very general checks and counters. Heatran can come in on practically any set lacking Hidden Power Ground and immediately threaten with a STAB Fire Blast. Heatran also doesn't mind paralysis too much. Volcarona can also threaten any Jirachi set, take little damage, and threaten with a STAB or a burn from Flame Body; it should be noted that Volcarona minds paralysis and Stealth Rock damage much more than Heatran as it takes little damage from Jirachi’s common attacks, and it can threaten Jirachi with a STAB Fire-type attack. Volcarona does hate paralysis however, so be sure to scout the set. Magnezone, particularly, is a very special counter; as it can trap Jirachi in the battlefield using its Magnet Pull ability and swiftly eliminate it with its choice of Thunderbolt or the correct Hidden Power. Most Jirachi sets (except for those running a good Hidden Power and Fire Punch) are rather unprepared for Magnezone. Like Heatran, Magnezone doesn't mind Thunder Wave drastically too much. Therefore, unless Jirachi has conjured built up enough Calm Minds or has a super effective move, Magnezone is forever a thorn in Jirachi's eye.</p>
Good job on the whole. Just a few errors here and there.
Well done, great analysis!
EDIT: I don't think it will let me fit all of this in one hide tag, sorry for the incovenince.
Thanks, elDino! I implemented most of your checks, and tried to mend my preferences and the checks in one piece.
Now for GP stamps.
Now for GP stamps.
not official
add
remove
partial
overall good. comma stuff, mostly
add
remove
partial
[OVERVIEW]
<p> If one were to choose a phrase that best describes Jirachi, this phrase would most likely be <i>Noblesse Oblige</i>, meaning that with great power and influence comes plural subject great responsibilities. With evidence from the last two generations, Jirachi remains one of the best Pokemon with a base stat total of 600, and for good reasons. Its phenomenal typing and enormous movepool allow it to run a variety of sets that no other competitors can replicate fully. Jirachi’s stats also allow it to perform nearly any role with good insurance, and unlike other rivals such as Shaymin and Latias, all of its stats benefit it. Jirachi’s extremely useful ability, Serene Grace, is still as abusable as ever, paired with moves including but not limited to Iron Head, Body Slam, and Thunder. Jirachi’s list of options is certainly expandable, as it can perform many roles ranging from the classic Calm Mind set to standard physical sets to helpful support sets.</p>
<p>Jirachi’s plethora of options and possibilities are not the only things that benefit Jirachi this generation. With the presence of classic and new threats in the land of the Overused, comma such as Latios, Latias, Reuniclus, Ferrothorn, and Outrage users, Jirachi bravely stand up against many of them. Its Steel- / Psychic- typing grants Jirachi nigh eight resistances and mere two weaknesses, allowing Jirachi to sponge many of the omnipresent Dragon-, Rock-, and Ice-type attacks of OU. On top of this, Jirachi’s typing also grants it good access to the battlefield, being immune to both Sandstorm and Toxic Spikes and making it hard to stall out. To put salt in the wounds, the Wish Pokemon, of course, has access to Wish, granting consistent, reliable healing for itself and its teammates. With all these traits in consideration, Jirachi can easily fit on and support any team with little issue.</p>
[SET]
name: Specially Defensive
move 1: Iron Head
move 2: Body Slam / Thunder Wave
move 3: Wish
move 4: Fire Punch / Protect
nature: Careful
item: Leftovers
evs: 252 HP / 224 SpD / 32 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This set utilizes Jirachi’s access to multiple support moves and good defensive typing, giving Jirachi just two weaknesses and a huge number of resistances, most importantly against Dragon-type moves. With investment in Hit Points and Special Defense, Jirachi can cushion various Special attacks with ease and while providing eloquent support with paralysis and a 200 Hit Point Wish. For example, Jirachi makes a perfectly viable switch-in to Timid Choice Specs Latios' Draco Meteor, losing only 31.4% - 37.1% of its health when hit. This means that Specially Defensive Jirachi can sponge nearly neutral or resisted hit below this specific attack, one of the most powerful attacks in OU. For a less mathematical example of Jirachi's Wish, a Pokemon with an uninvested base 80-90 HP stat (such as Latios, Thundurus, and Volcarona) will recover about two-thirds of its health, which is a considerable improvement in comparison to last generation.</p>
<p>Jirachi is unique when compared to other paralysis-inducers, comma thanks to its ability, Serene Grace, Body Slam, and Iron Head. Body Slam is primary over Thunder Wave because, whereas a multitude of support Pokémon can abuse Thunder Wave, Jirachi can utilize Body Slam to paralyze threats that Thunder Wave cannot, mainly Ground-type Pokémon and faster Taunt users. Notably, Serene Grace doubles Body Slam’s chance to paralyze to a consistent 60%, allowing Jirachi to paralyze a threat most of the time, thanks to its great bulk. In any case, Thunder Wave is always an option over Body Slam for a guaranteed paralysis move. Keep in mind that most support Pokémon have access to Thunder Wave, and Body Slam differentiates Jirachi from its competition. Another trait that Jirachi has over other support Pokemon is Iron Head; this move is complimentary with paralysis and Serene Grace as Jirachi can slowly chip away at an opponent, weakening it for another Pokemon to KO. Iron Head may also allow Jirachi a “free turn” for Wish healing, provided the opponent is flinched. However, this Jirachi should be used defensively at first, so Iron Head usage should be kept to a minimum because of the zero Attack investment.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The last slot is entirely up to the user. Fire Punch provides an efficient buffer against Scizor and Ferrothorn, both of which are significant defensive threats. Protect provides Jirachi with a way to scout for incoming attacks and allows Jirachi to be safely healed after Wish has been used heal safely after using Wish passive voice is wordy. With Protect, Jirachi will not have to rely on Iron Head as much, but it cannot check Scizor or Ferrothorn. U-Turn is also an option to pass Jirachi’s Wishes safely to another teammate; with Jirachi’s relatively slow Speed without investment and good bulk, it is nearly guaranteed to heal another teammate successfully without the recipient taking damage.</p>
<p>The given EVs allow maximum special bulk while outrunning Jolly Tyranitar. Significant Speed investment is not necessary due to Body Slam or Thunder Wave. Alternatively, one may opt for a more physically defensive spread of 240 HP / 160 Def / 76 SpD / 32 Spe with an Impish nature. This spread allows Jirachi to better take physical attacks while maintaining a reasonable amount of special bulk. It is a perfectly viable alternative over the main spread, depending on the team's needs.</p>
<p>Jirachi provides support in the form of Wish and a paralysis-inducing move, allowing slower, but powerful, teammates to thrive. Defensively-speaking, a levitating Dragon-type is a perfect team member to receive Jirachi's support; Latios, Latias, Dragonite, Salamence, and Hydreigon are all immune or resistant to Jirachi's weaknesses. Being the powerhouses they are, they can put a dent in the opposing team while being kept alive by Wish. Gyarados, while not a Dragon-type, operates similarly to them and can provide an offensive and/or defensive approach to the team with Dragon Dance, Dragon Tail, and Intimidate. Jirachi in return can easily take the Dragon-, Ice-, and Rock-type moves aimed at all of them and repeat the support process.</p>
[SET]
name: SubCM
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Calm Mind
move 3: Thunderbolt
move 4: Flash Cannon / Psychic / Psyshock
nature: Timid
item: Leftovers
evs: 252 HP / 4 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Being Jirachi’s flagship set in the previous generations, Substitute paired with Calm Mind is still a viable strategy on Jirachi due to the ability to break apart bulky and stall-oriented teams. With good defensive typing and maximum Hit Point investment, Jirachi can set up on multiple Pokemon in OU and proceed to sweep after a few boosts. Unlike other Calm Mind boosters, Jirachi has convenient immunities to passive damage, namely Toxic Spikes and Sandstorm. The magic of this set is that it easily forces defensive Pokemon, like Celebi, Blissey, Chansey, Jellicent, opposing Jirachi, and Porygon2, to struggle while it sets up, making a sweep all the more easier. The strategy is fairly simple; Jirachi should come in on a resisted attack or support move, and then use Substitute to identify the opponent’s response to it. From there, Jirachi has a few options: set up Calm Mind as the opponent switches to an attacker or initial check, or immediately hit-and-run if the counter is a significant threat.</p>
<p>Substitute and Calm Mind are obviously the integral parts of the set. Whereas Substitute blocks status and scouts for counters and checks, Calm Mind allows Jirachi to be more of a threat, offensively and defensively. For its attacking moves, Thunderbolt is necessary to achieve general coverage. Flash Cannon is the primary STAB option to ensure overall coverage. Flash Cannon notably allows Jirachi to 2HKO Tyranitar, who would otherwise wall it if Jirachi has not conjured many boosts. Psychic can better handle some other significant OU threats, such as Conkeldurr, Venusaur, and some Fire-type Pokemon. Finally Alternatively, flows better than finally Psyshock gives Jirachi more momentum against physically-weak Pokemon and opposing Calm Mind users, especially Reuniclus and Latias. However, with Substitute and Flash Cannon or Psychic, Jirachi already defeats Chansey and Blissey, the two premier special walls. Choose which STAB move acts in the team's favor most.</p>
<p> If one were to choose a phrase that best describes Jirachi, this phrase would most likely be <i>Noblesse Oblige</i>, meaning that with great power and influence comes plural subject great responsibilities. With evidence from the last two generations, Jirachi remains one of the best Pokemon with a base stat total of 600, and for good reasons. Its phenomenal typing and enormous movepool allow it to run a variety of sets that no other competitors can replicate fully. Jirachi’s stats also allow it to perform nearly any role with good insurance, and unlike other rivals such as Shaymin and Latias, all of its stats benefit it. Jirachi’s extremely useful ability, Serene Grace, is still as abusable as ever, paired with moves including but not limited to Iron Head, Body Slam, and Thunder. Jirachi’s list of options is certainly expandable, as it can perform many roles ranging from the classic Calm Mind set to standard physical sets to helpful support sets.</p>
<p>Jirachi’s plethora of options and possibilities are not the only things that benefit Jirachi this generation. With the presence of classic and new threats in the land of the Overused, comma such as Latios, Latias, Reuniclus, Ferrothorn, and Outrage users, Jirachi bravely stand up against many of them. Its Steel- / Psychic- typing grants Jirachi nigh eight resistances and mere two weaknesses, allowing Jirachi to sponge many of the omnipresent Dragon-, Rock-, and Ice-type attacks of OU. On top of this, Jirachi’s typing also grants it good access to the battlefield, being immune to both Sandstorm and Toxic Spikes and making it hard to stall out. To put salt in the wounds, the Wish Pokemon, of course, has access to Wish, granting consistent, reliable healing for itself and its teammates. With all these traits in consideration, Jirachi can easily fit on and support any team with little issue.</p>
[SET]
name: Specially Defensive
move 1: Iron Head
move 2: Body Slam / Thunder Wave
move 3: Wish
move 4: Fire Punch / Protect
nature: Careful
item: Leftovers
evs: 252 HP / 224 SpD / 32 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This set utilizes Jirachi’s access to multiple support moves and good defensive typing, giving Jirachi just two weaknesses and a huge number of resistances, most importantly against Dragon-type moves. With investment in Hit Points and Special Defense, Jirachi can cushion various Special attacks with ease and while providing eloquent support with paralysis and a 200 Hit Point Wish. For example, Jirachi makes a perfectly viable switch-in to Timid Choice Specs Latios' Draco Meteor, losing only 31.4% - 37.1% of its health when hit. This means that Specially Defensive Jirachi can sponge nearly neutral or resisted hit below this specific attack, one of the most powerful attacks in OU. For a less mathematical example of Jirachi's Wish, a Pokemon with an uninvested base 80-90 HP stat (such as Latios, Thundurus, and Volcarona) will recover about two-thirds of its health, which is a considerable improvement in comparison to last generation.</p>
<p>Jirachi is unique when compared to other paralysis-inducers, comma thanks to its ability, Serene Grace, Body Slam, and Iron Head. Body Slam is primary over Thunder Wave because, whereas a multitude of support Pokémon can abuse Thunder Wave, Jirachi can utilize Body Slam to paralyze threats that Thunder Wave cannot, mainly Ground-type Pokémon and faster Taunt users. Notably, Serene Grace doubles Body Slam’s chance to paralyze to a consistent 60%, allowing Jirachi to paralyze a threat most of the time, thanks to its great bulk. In any case, Thunder Wave is always an option over Body Slam for a guaranteed paralysis move. Keep in mind that most support Pokémon have access to Thunder Wave, and Body Slam differentiates Jirachi from its competition. Another trait that Jirachi has over other support Pokemon is Iron Head; this move is complimentary with paralysis and Serene Grace as Jirachi can slowly chip away at an opponent, weakening it for another Pokemon to KO. Iron Head may also allow Jirachi a “free turn” for Wish healing, provided the opponent is flinched. However, this Jirachi should be used defensively at first, so Iron Head usage should be kept to a minimum because of the zero Attack investment.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The last slot is entirely up to the user. Fire Punch provides an efficient buffer against Scizor and Ferrothorn, both of which are significant defensive threats. Protect provides Jirachi with a way to scout for incoming attacks and allows Jirachi to be safely healed after Wish has been used heal safely after using Wish passive voice is wordy. With Protect, Jirachi will not have to rely on Iron Head as much, but it cannot check Scizor or Ferrothorn. U-Turn is also an option to pass Jirachi’s Wishes safely to another teammate; with Jirachi’s relatively slow Speed without investment and good bulk, it is nearly guaranteed to heal another teammate successfully without the recipient taking damage.</p>
<p>The given EVs allow maximum special bulk while outrunning Jolly Tyranitar. Significant Speed investment is not necessary due to Body Slam or Thunder Wave. Alternatively, one may opt for a more physically defensive spread of 240 HP / 160 Def / 76 SpD / 32 Spe with an Impish nature. This spread allows Jirachi to better take physical attacks while maintaining a reasonable amount of special bulk. It is a perfectly viable alternative over the main spread, depending on the team's needs.</p>
<p>Jirachi provides support in the form of Wish and a paralysis-inducing move, allowing slower, but powerful, teammates to thrive. Defensively-speaking, a levitating Dragon-type is a perfect team member to receive Jirachi's support; Latios, Latias, Dragonite, Salamence, and Hydreigon are all immune or resistant to Jirachi's weaknesses. Being the powerhouses they are, they can put a dent in the opposing team while being kept alive by Wish. Gyarados, while not a Dragon-type, operates similarly to them and can provide an offensive and/or defensive approach to the team with Dragon Dance, Dragon Tail, and Intimidate. Jirachi in return can easily take the Dragon-, Ice-, and Rock-type moves aimed at all of them and repeat the support process.</p>
[SET]
name: SubCM
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Calm Mind
move 3: Thunderbolt
move 4: Flash Cannon / Psychic / Psyshock
nature: Timid
item: Leftovers
evs: 252 HP / 4 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Being Jirachi’s flagship set in the previous generations, Substitute paired with Calm Mind is still a viable strategy on Jirachi due to the ability to break apart bulky and stall-oriented teams. With good defensive typing and maximum Hit Point investment, Jirachi can set up on multiple Pokemon in OU and proceed to sweep after a few boosts. Unlike other Calm Mind boosters, Jirachi has convenient immunities to passive damage, namely Toxic Spikes and Sandstorm. The magic of this set is that it easily forces defensive Pokemon, like Celebi, Blissey, Chansey, Jellicent, opposing Jirachi, and Porygon2, to struggle while it sets up, making a sweep all the more easier. The strategy is fairly simple; Jirachi should come in on a resisted attack or support move, and then use Substitute to identify the opponent’s response to it. From there, Jirachi has a few options: set up Calm Mind as the opponent switches to an attacker or initial check, or immediately hit-and-run if the counter is a significant threat.</p>
<p>Substitute and Calm Mind are obviously the integral parts of the set. Whereas Substitute blocks status and scouts for counters and checks, Calm Mind allows Jirachi to be more of a threat, offensively and defensively. For its attacking moves, Thunderbolt is necessary to achieve general coverage. Flash Cannon is the primary STAB option to ensure overall coverage. Flash Cannon notably allows Jirachi to 2HKO Tyranitar, who would otherwise wall it if Jirachi has not conjured many boosts. Psychic can better handle some other significant OU threats, such as Conkeldurr, Venusaur, and some Fire-type Pokemon. Finally Alternatively, flows better than finally Psyshock gives Jirachi more momentum against physically-weak Pokemon and opposing Calm Mind users, especially Reuniclus and Latias. However, with Substitute and Flash Cannon or Psychic, Jirachi already defeats Chansey and Blissey, the two premier special walls. Choose which STAB move acts in the team's favor most.</p>
overall good. comma stuff, mostly
Thanks, V0x, changes made!
I'd like to mention a secondary EV spread for the Special Defensive Jirachi which is 252 HP/192 Sp.Def/64 speed. The extra speed brings you to 252 which outspeeds max Speed Jolly Scizor by one point. I've seen people use Jolly SD Scizor before, most likely to outpace Magnezone and some variants of Rotom-W.
That aside, a +2 LO Bugbite does upwards of 94% to Jirachi; and if you rely on Fire Punch as a last ditch effort/your main check to SD Scizor I recommend the extra speed. However, if you don't use Fire Punch, the extra speed is irrlevent so I think a mention in AC is acceptable.
That aside, a +2 LO Bugbite does upwards of 94% to Jirachi; and if you rely on Fire Punch as a last ditch effort/your main check to SD Scizor I recommend the extra speed. However, if you don't use Fire Punch, the extra speed is irrlevent so I think a mention in AC is acceptable.
A few content things:
-Bloo and I agreed that Stealth Rock should receive more than just an OO mention. Jirachi is one of the best users of Stealth Rock, and it can function fine without either of its current fourth moves. Thus, Stealth Rock should be slashed in the fourth slot of the first set.
-QC consensus was that 64 Spe EVs is fine as a mention in set comments for the first set.
-Calm Mind / Wish should be included as a set. There was no consensus as to whether Wish should just be slashed with Substitute or whether Calm Mind / Wish should be made its own set, though. I would personally slash Wish with Substitute and change the set to "Calm Mind." Open to input here.
-There should be a mention of Jirachi as a Baton Pass recipient (Shell Smash Gorebyss -> Iron Head / Fire Punch / Ice Punch / Thunderbolt). I don't know how large of a mention, as iconic brought it up and has more experience with it, but I would say OO at the very least.
-Bloo and I agreed that Stealth Rock should receive more than just an OO mention. Jirachi is one of the best users of Stealth Rock, and it can function fine without either of its current fourth moves. Thus, Stealth Rock should be slashed in the fourth slot of the first set.
-QC consensus was that 64 Spe EVs is fine as a mention in set comments for the first set.
-Calm Mind / Wish should be included as a set. There was no consensus as to whether Wish should just be slashed with Substitute or whether Calm Mind / Wish should be made its own set, though. I would personally slash Wish with Substitute and change the set to "Calm Mind." Open to input here.
-There should be a mention of Jirachi as a Baton Pass recipient (Shell Smash Gorebyss -> Iron Head / Fire Punch / Ice Punch / Thunderbolt). I don't know how large of a mention, as iconic brought it up and has more experience with it, but I would say OO at the very least.
Alright, I did everything that was agreed to above me, except for the case of Calm Mind since it's still in debate. Once QC has made an official decision on Wish + Calm Mind Jirachi, I will change the analysis accordingly.
Personally, with the popularity of threats such as Leech Seed / Thunder Wave Ferrothorn, Excadrill, Landuros, Whimsicott, Trick Specs Latios, and just a few above others, I fear the worst for Wish + CM.
Personally, with the popularity of threats such as Leech Seed / Thunder Wave Ferrothorn, Excadrill, Landuros, Whimsicott, Trick Specs Latios, and just a few above others, I fear the worst for Wish + CM.
GP 1/2
Additions in Bold
Deletions in Red
Great writing as always greed!
Additions in Bold
Deletions in Red
Great writing as always greed!
[OVERVIEW]
<p> If one were to choose a phrase that best describes Jirachi, this phrase would most likely be <i>Noblesse Oblige</i>, meaning that with great power and influence come great responsibilities. After repeatedly high usage during With evidence from the last two generations, Jirachi remains one of the best Pokemon with a base stat total of 600, and for good reason reasons. Its phenomenal typing and enormous movepool allow it to run a variety of sets that no other competitors can replicate fully. Jirachi’s stats also allow it to perform nearly any role with good insurance, and unlike other rivals such as Shaymin and Latias, all of its stats benefit it. Jirachi’s extremely useful ability, Serene Grace, is still as abusable as ever, paired with moves including but not limited to Iron Head, Body Slam, and Thunder. Jirachi’s list of options is certainly expandable, as it can perform many roles ranging from the classic Calm Mind set to standard physical sets to helpful support sets.</p>
<p>Jirachi’s plethora of options and possibilities are not the only things that benefit Jirachi this generation. With the presence of classic and new threats in the land of the Overused such as Latios, Latias, Reuniclus, Ferrothorn, and Outrage users, Jirachi bravely stand up against many of them. Its Steel- / Psychic-[backspace]typing grants Jirachi nigh eight resistances and a mere two weaknesses, allowing Jirachi to sponge many of the omnipresent Dragon-, Rock-, and Ice-type attacks of OU. On top of this, Jirachi’s typing also grants it easy good access to the battlefield, being immune to both Sandstorm and Toxic Spikes, and making it hard to stall out. To put salt in the wounds, the Wish Pokemon, of course, has access to Wish, granting consistent, reliable healing for itself and its teammates. With all these traits in consideration, Jirachi can easily fit on and support any team with little issue.</p>
[SET]
name: Specially Defensive
move 1: Iron Head
move 2: Body Slam / Thunder Wave
move 3: Wish
move 4: Fire Punch / Protect / Stealth Rock
nature: Careful
item: Leftovers
evs: 252 HP / 224 SpD / 32 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This set utilizes Jirachi’s access to multiple support moves and good defensive typing, given giving Jirachi just two weaknesses and a huge number of resistances, most importantly against Dragon-type moves. With investment in Hit Points and Special Defense, Jirachi can cushion various Special attacks with ease and while providing all-around eloquent support with paralysis and a 200 Hit Point Wish. For example, Jirachi makes a perfectly viable switch-in to Timid Choice Specs Latios' Draco Meteor, losing only 31.4% - 37.1% of its health when hit. This means that Specially Defensive Jirachi can sponge nearly all neutral or resisted hits below this specific attack, one of the most threatening blows powerful attacks in OU. For a less mathematical example of Jirachi's Wish, a Pokemon with an uninvested base 80-90 HP stat (such as Latios, Thundurus, and Volcarona) will recover about two-thirds of its health, which is a considerable improvement in comparison to last generation.</p>
<p>Jirachi is unique when compared to other paralysis-inducers thanks to its ability, Serene Grace, Body Slam, and Iron Head. Body Slam is primary over Thunder Wave because, whereas a multitude of support Pokémon can abuse Thunder Wave, Jirachi can utilize Body Slam to paralyze threats that Thunder Wave cannot, mainly Ground-type Pokémon and faster Taunt users. Notably, Serene Grace doubles Body Slam’s chance to paralyze to a consistent 60%, allowing Jirachi to paralyze a threat most of the time, thanks to its great bulk. In any case, Thunder Wave is always an option over Body Slam for a guaranteed paralysis move. Keep in mind, however, that most support Pokémon have access to Thunder Wave, and Body Slam differentiates Jirachi from its competition. Another trait that Jirachi has over other support Pokemon is Iron Head; this move is complimentary with paralysis and Serene Grace as Jirachi can slowly chip away at an opponent, weakening it for another Pokemon to KO. Iron Head may also allow Jirachi a “free turn” for Wish healing, provided the opponent is flinched. However, this Jirachi should be used defensively at first, so Iron Head usage should be kept to a minimum because of the zero Attack investment.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The last slot is entirely up to the user. Fire Punch provides an efficient buffer against Scizor and Ferrothorn, both of which are significant defensive threats. Protect provides Jirachi with a way to scout for incoming attacks and allows Jirachi heal safely after using Wish. With Protect, Jirachi will not have to rely on Iron Head as much, but it cannot check Scizor or Ferrothorn. Jirachi can further support the team by utilizing Stealth Rock; if the team does not have other entry hazard users available, Jirachi can easily set up Stealth Rocks and still easily function without its other fourth moves. U-Turn is also an option to pass Jirachi’s Wishes safely to another teammate; with Jirachi’s relatively slow Speed without investment and good bulk, it is nearly guaranteed to heal another teammate successfully without the recipient taking damage.</p>
<p>The given EVs allow maximum special bulk while outrunning Jolly Tyranitar. Significant Speed investment is not necessary due to Body Slam or Thunder Wave. Alternatively, one may opt for a more physically defensive spread of 240 HP / 160 Def / 76 SpD / 32 Spe with an Impish nature. This spread allows Jirachi to better take physical attacks while maintaining a reasonable amount of special bulk. It is a perfectly viable alternative over the main spread, depending on the team's needs. Furthermore, Jirachi may opt to invest in 64 Speed EVs in order to outrun maximum Speed Jolly Scizor, a rising occurrence in the metagame.</p>
<p>Jirachi provides support in the form of Wish and a paralysis-inducing move, allowing slower, but powerful, teammates to thrive. Defensively-speaking, a levitating Dragon-type is a perfect team member to receive Jirachi's support; Latios, Latias, Dragonite, Salamence, and Hydreigon are all immune or resistant to Jirachi's weaknesses. Being the powerhouses they are, they can put a dent in the opposing team while being kept alive by Wish. Gyarados, while not a Dragon-type, operates similarly to them and can provide an offensive and/or defensive approach to the team with Dragon Dance, Dragon Tail, and Intimidate. Jirachi in return can easily take the Dragon-, Ice-, and Rock-type moves aimed at all of them and repeat the support process.</p>
[SET]
name: SubCM
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Calm Mind
move 3: Thunderbolt
move 4: Flash Cannon / Psychic / Psyshock
nature: Timid
item: Leftovers
evs: 252 HP / 4 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Being Jirachi’s flagship set in the previous generations, Substitute paired with Calm Mind is still a viable strategy on Jirachi due to the ability to break apart bulky and stall-oriented teams. With good defensive typing and maximum Hit Point investment, Jirachi can set up on multiple Pokemon in OU and proceed to sweep after a few boosts. Unlike other Calm Mind boosters, Jirachi has convenient immunities to passive damage, namely Toxic Spikes and Sandstorm. The magic of this set is that it easily forces defensive Pokemon, like Celebi, Blissey, Chansey, Jellicent, opposing Jirachi, and Porygon2, to struggle while it sets up, making a sweep even all the more easier. The strategy is fairly simple; Jirachi should come in on a resisted attack or support move, and then use Substitute to identify the opponent’s response to it. From there, Jirachi has a few options: set up Calm Mind as the opponent switches to an attacker or initial check, or immediately hit-and-run if the counter is a significant threat.</p>
<p>Substitute and Calm Mind are obviously the integral parts of the set. Whereas Substitute blocks status and scouts for counters and checks, Calm Mind allows Jirachi to be more of a threat, offensively and defensively. For its attacking moves, Thunderbolt is necessary to achieve general coverage. Flash Cannon is the primary STAB option to ensure overall coverage. Flash Cannon notably allows Jirachi to 2HKO Tyranitar, who can would otherwise wall it if Jirachi has not conjured many boosts. Psychic can be a better answer to better handle some other significant OU threats, such as Conkeldurr, Venusaur, and some Fire-type Pokemon. Alternatively, Psyshock gives Jirachi more momentum against physically-weak Pokemon and opposing Calm Mind users, especially Reuniclus and Latias. However, with Substitute and Flash Cannon or Psychic, Jirachi already defeats Chansey and Blissey, the two premier special walls. Choose which STAB move acts in the team's favor most.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>Maximum EV investment in HP is very necessary on this set to boost Jirachi's already great bulk and give it time to Calm Mind. With maximum HP, Jirachi can utilize 101 HP Substitutes, which Seismic Toss users, such as Dusclops and Blissey, cannot break with one Seismic Toss. In addition, maximum Speed speed investment with a Timid nature allows Jirachi to tie with positive base 100 Pokemon, ensuring it will not be revenge killed easily. The Speed speed investment, however, is not necessary; Jirachi can be modified to outrun a certain Speed tier, putting the leftover EVs into Defense or Special Attack. Investing in Defense means that Jirachi can prepare for its sweep in front of weaker physical attacks.</p>
<p>Because Jirachi has to rely on multiple boosts and two attacks to be significantly threatening, it will run into several notable obstacles. Against offensive teams in general, faster Pokemon with a Fire- or Ground-type move prevent Jirachi from obtaining too many Calm Mind boosts. Celebi, Execcutor, Latias, Latios, and Krookodile Crookodile completely wall Jirachi if it chooses to forgo Flash Cannon for Psychic. If Jirachi chooses Flash Cannon, Lanturn, Rotom-W, Swampert, Quagsire, and Magnezone wall Jirachi as well, though with enough Calm Minds, Jirachi can casually overcome these threats until its Substitute is unbreakable. Unaware Quagsire is a rather interesting counter, as it nullifies any boosts Jirachi has executed in the battle and handles Jirachi's unboosted Psychic and Flash Cannon with sick ease. Excadrill walls just about any combination of moves Jirachi chooses. Phazing is also a very serious problem when trying to set up; while Latias and Nidoqueen can force Jirachi out with Roar, Skarmory can survive one Thunderbolt at full health, thanks to Sturdy, and successfully use Whirlwind. Without enough Calm Mind boosts, Jirachi cannot deal enough damage to Scizor with Thunderbolt before Scizor can break its Substitute with U-Turn and switch to a counter, putting Jirachi in an awkward position. Finally, faster Encore and Taunt users pose an annoyance to Jirachi if it is caught using Substitute or Calm Mind. Jirachi especially must look out for Whimsicott, as Whimsicott can easily use Prankster Encore, Taunt, and Substitute to completely nullify Jirachi's efforts.</p>
<p>In order for Jirachi to function effectively, it must have adequate support. Unlike Jirachi’s other sets, it certainly can be paired with more defensive, stall-based teammates. Stealth Rock is essential to negate Skarmory’s Sturdy effect and prevent it from phasing Jirachi and its boosts away. Entry hazard support in general is beneficial so Jirachi can force special attackers out and shuffle the opposing team to score random KOes. Ironically, Skarmory is one of the best hazard layers to pair with Jirachi, as it counters many significant Ground-types and can heal off damage easily with Roost while laying down both Spikes and Stealth Rock. As an added benefit, Skarmory can abuse its Sturdy ability and Whirlwind to phaze out troublesome threats. Keep in mind that both Jirachi and Skarmory must play around their Fire-type weakness. Deoxys-D can also set up both aforementioned entry hazards with ease, and while it does not particularly compliment Jirachi defensively, it brushes off numerous attacks heartily and heals off damage. Toxic Spikes, while a tad unnecessary in comparison to Spikes and Stealth Rock, support allows Jirachi to stall out many threats as it sets up and sweeps, chipping the enemy’s health to KO range. [backspace]</p>
<p>Jirachi also requires some offensive teammates to bring down its counters. Any levitating Dragon-type can easily absorb Jirachi’s two weaknesses and start a scuffle with powerful attacks. Dragonite, Salamence, Hydreigon, and Latios are all but just a few of many capable wallbreaking Dragon-types that can pave the way for Jirachi’s sweep and their own. With at least one Fire-type move and a Dragon-type STAB, these Dragon-types easily eliminate Jirachi’s counters. Bulky Dragon Dance Gyarados, with at least one boost, can defeat most of Jirachi’s problem opponents as well. If Jirachi finds that dealing with weather teams is a problem, Drizzle Politoed is most certainly an instant solution. With a Choice Scarf attached, Politoed is able to revenge kill many weather-reliant threats while changing the weather to stormy skies. With weather in mind, eliminating Excadrill is an extreme priority, since it walls Jirachi no matter which two moves it chooses. Whimsicott can unfortunately only be dealt with by battering it until it faints. Other than some specific counters such as Magic Guard and Magic Bounce users, you must assault and outsmart Whimsicott to kill.</p>
[SET]
name: Superachi! (Offensive Calm Mind)
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Psychic / Psyshock
move 3: Grass Knot / Thunderbolt
move 4: Hidden Power Fire
nature: Timid
item: Leftovers
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Although Jirachi is mostly designed to set up in front of defensively-oriented Pokemon, Superachi is quite the contrary. With an acute emphasis on the offensive side of the spectrum, Jirachi can now serve as both a sizeable sweeper and a lure to most its usual checks and counters. Tyranitar, Scizor, Ferrothorn, Quagsire, and Swampert are destroyed with a super effective move, exterminating them all after just one Calm Mind, giving Jirachi more opportunities to wreak havoc upon the rest of the opposing team. A transition from defense to offense is also safe due to Jirachi’s still-reliable bulk, despite the different investment and strategy.</p>
<p>The set is nothing complicated; Calm Mind is the main move on this set and is complimented by three coverage moves. Jirachi can choose between Psychic and Psyshock as its main STAB. Again, while Psychic-type attacks does not have outstanding coverage alone, with the other moves, these attacks can be especially effective. While Psychic takes immediate advantage of specially-weak threats such as Gliscor, Psyshock is a great alternative due to the ability to eliminate threats that are weaker on the physical side. Jirachi cannot set up on Blissey and other walls as easily, so Psyshock provides a way to dispose of them as soon as possible. Grass Knot accommodates Psychic and Psyshock by immediately disposing of the multiple Water- and Ground-types found in OU; especially Quagsire who would otherwise ignore Jirachi’s Calm Mind boosts with Unaware. Thunderbolt is an acceptable alternative to more reliably counter Skarmory and Vaporeon, though Tyranitar becomes more of a threat without Grass Knot. Finally, Hidden Power Fire completes the set’s coverage by removing Scizor, Ferrothorn, Forretress, and some Grass-types from play promptly. Hidden Power Fire also provides an alternate way of scratching Skarmory without the need for Thunderbolt.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>Like the moveset itself, the EVs are also pretty much straightforward. Here, Jirachi fully invests in Special Attack in order to assault with more zest. With a Timid nature, a Speed IV of 30, and maximum investment in Speed, Jirachi outruns Hydreigon and lower, while managing a Speed tie with positive base 100’s also using an imperfect Speed IV. Hidden Power Ice is worthy of mention to take out most Dragon-types and Gliscor in one hit, while keeping Jirachi’s Speed perfect (Hidden Power Fire forces Jirachi to use a 30 Speed IV). However, with its main options, Jirachi can already hurt Gliscor and the Dragons with preceding damage, and some targets of Hidden Power Ice, such as Garchomp and Landorus Landuros, already outrun and defeat Jirachi.</p>
<p>Like similar offensive sets, Superachi has problems of its own, though it can easily lure in and eliminate its original checks and counters. Heatran makes a pessimistic counter to Jirachi due to a neutrality to Thunderbolt and an immunity or resistance to the rest of Jirachi’s moves. With powerful STAB Fire-type moves, Heatran puts Jirachi in a corner. If Jirachi chooses to forgo Psyshock for Psychic, Blissey and Chansey wall it eternally. Vice-versa, In vice-versa, Gliscor and some physical walls make decent pivots against Psyshock, though a boosted Grass Knot or Hidden Power should easily take care of them with prior damage. As usual, Latias and Latios still make creditable counters to Calm Mind Jirachi due to Jirachi's lack of coverage against the both of them. With Calm Mind (and sometimes Roar), they can still set up alongside Jirachi, though it can usually win Calm Mind wars with Psyshock and its resistances to Dragon- and Psychic-type moves.</p>
<p>With any offensive Jirachi, entry hazards are at least helpful in obtaining some OHKOs Jirachi would not otherwise get. For example, with Stealth Rock on the field, Jirachi handily defeats Zapdos, Gyarados, and Chandelure with a boosted Psychic or Psyshock. A bulky Water-type, such as Suicune or and Gyarados, ensures that Jirachi’s counters in Fire- and Ground-type foes are kept at bay with high health. As usual, levitating Dragon-types resist Jirachi’s two weaknesses as well as upholding a good offensive presence against the opposing team. These Dragon-types also beat most bulky or fast Fire- and Ground- type Pokemon with resistances and a powerful attack. Strong Pursuit users, such as Scizor, Tyranitar, and Bisharp handle Blissey, Chansey, Latias, and Latios fairly well. Since Superachi handily lures in and defeats of its counters, teammates who originally had problems with these Pokemon make fine teammates as well. Kingdra, Tyranitar, Gyarados, Reuniclus, Dragonite, and many others appreciate the removal of their respective counters while offering their own offensive support.</p>
[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Iron Head
move 2: Ice Punch
move 3: Fire Punch
move 4: Trick / U-Turn / Thunderpunch
nature: Jolly
item: Choice Scarf
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>The last generation provided Jirachi two brand-new dangerous weapons that significantly broke its label as only a special attacker: Choice Scarf and Iron Head. With a Choice Scarf equipped, Jirachi gains the ability to revenge kill the majority of faster threats in OU, including but not limited to Latios, Latias, Tornadus, Thundurus, Weavile, most Dragon Dancers, and Shell Breakers. Jirachi's resistances also help utilize this set to its fullest, as it can brush off many priority moves and come in on numerous attacks. However, one would be misguided as to treat this Jirachi as a sweeper or a significant offensive threat. Rather, consider Choice Scarf Jirachi more of a “supporting attacker"; it does not have the immediate power to pose as a noteworthy physical sweeper.</p>
<p>Unlike other users of Choice Scarf, Jirachi makes great use of its his unique ability, Serene Grace, with STAB Iron Head and its increased chance to continually flinch foes, sometimes even to the point of fainting. Fortunately, this alone makes up for Jirachi's just decent Attack stat. Along with Iron Head, Jirachi also has complimentary coverage options in Ice Punch and Fire Punch, accompanied by the user’s choice in the fourth slot. Fire Punch dents most foes that attempt to sponge Iron Head, such as Scizor and Ferrothorn, while Ice Punch eliminates most Dragon- and Flying-types, most notably Landuros, Dragonite, and Garchomp.</p>
<p>Trick allows Jirachi to cripple a would-be counter or defensive wall, while U-Turn allows Jirachi to switch out of its counters, which is helpful with some entry hazards on the field. Finally, ThunderPunch is optional to smack Gyarados and Jellicent, but has little uses outside of that this generation. Alternatively, Thunderbolt can be used over ThunderPunch to more reliably check Gyarados and Skarmory, provided Jirachi uses a Hasty or Naive Nature. However, like ThunderPunch, Thunderbolt is rather specific, and will be rather weak with zero Special Attack investment. Use Trick with consideration, as Jirachi will turn into a less effective attacker without Choice Scarf or an attack-boosting item.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>As far as counters go, the number of Pokemon that can set up on a single move is unfortunately numerous. Since Choice Scarf Jirachi operates as a supporting attacker rather than a major offensive force, not much support will actually be necessary. Teammates who can reliably counter Heatran, Ferrothorn, Scizor, Skarmory, Excadrill, and some Rotom Appliances are appreciated big helps. A strategy is to switch Jirachi out of something that forces it out, and switch in again to revenge kill the foe. Jirachi also appreciates a teammate who can fight against physical walls without difficulty. Entry hazards are fairly efficient with this Jirachi since it will be switching out often. For a quick way to set up hazards, Deoxys-S is usually the best to lay at least one layer of Spikes or Stealth Rock, while an attacking Infernape or Azelf provides both offensive and Stealth Rock support.</p>
[SET]
name: Substitute + Paralysis
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Body Slam / Thunder Wave
move 3: Iron Head
move 4: Fire Punch
nature: Jolly
item: Leftovers
evs: 80 HP / 252 Atk / 176 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This set is a quite different, albeit expected, approach to Jirachi. While the defensive sets are used for pure support in Wish and a paralysis-inducing move, Jirachi can also spread paralysis at a more offensive angle. With Substitute, Jirachi can ease prediction against a would-be threat and successfully paralyze it, proceeding to flinch it to death with Iron Head or forcing it to switch to another vulnerable Pokemon. The primary strategy is simple; Jirachi simply has to paralyze its switch-in, and either Substitute for prediction or switch to a counter. It can then come in again to paralyze more foes and set up behind a Substitute. One may modify this strategy depending on the battle conditions. Another strategy is to keep using Substitute until the opponent is fully paralyzed, though Jirachi is better off switching to another teammate for the purpose of safety and conservation.</p>
<p>As mentioned before, Jirachi is very unique in comparison to other support Pokemon due to its access to Serene Grace, increasing Body Slam's chance to paralyze to 60%. Serene Grace also boosts Iron Head's chance to flinch to 60%. With Iron Head, the opposing Pokemon is forced to attack only 30% of the time with a 100% accurate move. This leaves Jirachi plenty of time to recover with Leftovers, switch to counters or set up Substitutes. With this in mind, Jirachi can be used in the long run and possibly sweep once its checks and counters have been eliminated. Jirachi is given Fire Punch in the last slot to dent any Steel-types attempting to wall Iron Head, especially Ferrothorn, who cannot break your Substitute.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The main EV spread allows Jirachi to outpace positive base 90 Pokemon so it isn't too reliant on paralysis. The Attack investment maximizes Jirachi's offensive power, and the rest is put into Hit Points for a steady amount of bulk. Since this set is dedicated towards paralyzing as many Pokemon as it can, Jirachi can opt for alternative spreads. Maximum Speed is generally not necessary, and Jirachi can invest in bulk as well, so a spread of 252 HP / 224 Atk / 32 Spe with an Adamant nature works fairly well. With 252 HP EVs, Seismic Toss users, like Dusclops and Blissey, cannot break Jirachi's Substitute and will be forced to retreat or take multiple Iron Heads. 224 Attack EVs give Jirachi a fair amount of offense, while 32 Speed EVs allow Jirachi to outspeed Jolly Tyranitar.</p>
<p>Also up to the user's preference is the decision between Body Slam and Thunder Wave. As explained before, Body Slam is what sets Jirachi apart from other support Pokemon, most of whom have access to Thunder Wave. However, if one finds the 60% chance of paralysis life-gambling, Thunder Wave is a perfectly acceptable alternative for reliability in general. Obviously, Thunder Wave cannot hit Ground-types like Garchomp and Excadrill for paralysis, so choose whatever fits the team's needs. Drain Punch can be put in place of Fire Punch for a few reasons; it can still super effectively hit Steel-types while being similar to Fire Punch in terms of damage output. It can also hit Heatran, one of Jirachi's usual counters, for super effective damage. Drain Punch's side effect also gives Jirachi the ability to restore health. With Drain Punch, however, Jirachi loses coverage specifically against Scizor. As a special note, Secret Power can be a viable alternative to Body Slam if one finds it difficult to obtain Body Slam on a cartridge.</p>
<p>While this set is extremely difficult for other players to work around, it definitely has some hard counters. For this Jirachi to be effective, Skarmory, Hippowdon, Toxic Poison Heal Gliscor, Heatran, Empoleon, Tentacruel, Chandelure, and Rotom-W all must be eliminated. In fact, physical walls, Water-, and Fire-type Pokemon in general make good checks to take Iron Head and Fire Punch, though most of them are crippled by paralysis. Again, a levitating Dragon-type works perfectly well with this Jirachi. Latias and Latios can set up Calm Minds in front of most of Jirachi's counters, while Dragonite and Salamence can break walls more easily with the paralysis support Jirachi provides. As a special mention, Togekiss also appreciates paralysis support and can use a strategy of "paraflinching" alongside Jirachi. Defensively, it is immune to Jirachi's Ground-type weakness while Jirachi resists the Rock and Ice -type weakness of Togekiss, and Togekiss can sweep more easily with any of its more offensive sets. On a dedicated paralysis team, Thundurus and Whimsicott are generally the best secondary paralysis-inducers because of their Prankster ability. Whimsicott in particular saves Jirachi from being decimated by Excadrill while being able to paralyze all types with Stun Spore.</p>
[Other Options]
<p>Jirachi has a surplus of interesting options to play with, though its more effective strategies have been listed. Drain Punch is an odd option to heal off damage and super effectively hit Steel-types. It should be noted that Drain Punch has been increased to 75 Base Power in the generation shift, so it is now competitively viable in Jirachi's physically-based sets. Energy Ball is an option for special sets; though Grass Knot is more useful as it hits Jirachi’s counters for more damage, as most of them are heavy, most of them heavy, for more damage.</p>
<p>With Drizzle support from Politoed, Jirachi can opt to run Thunder instead of Thunderbolt for the higher base power and higher chance to paralyze opponents. With Serene Grace factored in, most opponents switching in to Jirachi must be aware of a high chance of paralysis. Also with Drizzle support, Jirachi has its Fire-type weakness halved, and can also run Water Pulse. Factoring in rain, Water Pulse technically has a 90 base power, and with Serene Grace, it has a high chance of inducing confusion, making it an option worth considering for coverage. If you are opting to run Politoed on a team, keep in mind that Jirachi benefits from it marvelously.</p>
<p>Last generation, Jirachi could lure counters and checks and eliminate them by using a mixed set. This mixed set in particular used Iron Head, two elemental punches, and a special move, along with a Naive nature, an Expert Belt, and maximum Speed and Attack. This set could be used to lure and defeat specific threats in the metagame, but is generally weak against the opponent once the special move has been revealed. On this note, Jirachi may choose to utilize a mixed Superachi set as well. With a Naive nature, 120 Attack EVs, Life Orb and Iron Head, Jirachi knocks many counters into[space]the KO range for its special moves. It does not have as much longevity as the original Calm Mind sets due to Life Orb, but it is still an option for surprise. These sets can be used to great value if used with Shell Break Baton Pass Gorebyss, which instantly boosts all of Jirachi's offensive stats and making the always-annoyingever vexing Iron Head even stronger.</p>
<p>Jirachi is also abundant in the support department. With Cosmic Power, Jirachi can run a purely defensive set with Wish and Toxic as compliments. Keep in mind that Jirachi is in danger of Steel-types and Taunt users if Cosmic Power is considered. Jirachi also has access to dual screens, which is perfectly acceptable with U-Turn and Jirachi's good defensive typing. Safeguard prevents status, but it is better off left to a dedicated user of stall or defense. Magic Coat is an odd support option that allows Jirachi to bypass attempts to set up hazards or cripple Jirachi with status moves. For field moves, Jirachi also has Gravity and Trick Room. Whereas Trick Room is decent with Jirachi's Wish and U-Turn, Gravity is generally considered a negligible gimmick. Stealth Rock may be used on any of Jirachi's support sets, but Jirachi generally cannot risk moveslot syndrome.</p>
[Checks and Counters]
<p>By virtue of its near-limitless diversity, it is extremely difficult to find a "hard counter" to Jirachi. Due to the unpredictable nature of Jirachi and the potency of all its sets, prediction is normally the first step to defeating it. Arguably, Jirachi's specially-based sets are the most difficult to challenge. While Substitute + Calm Mind makes many weak attackers and Seismic Toss-reliant Pokemon struggle, its more offensive special sets can put a large dent in any team immediately. Counters to these sets differ depending on the combination of moves Jirachi chooses. If Jirachi isn't using Psyshock or the Substitute + Calm Mind set, Blissey and Chansey sponge its Special Attacks all day. If Skarmory is at full health, it can phaze out Jirachi and survive a Thunderbolt thanks to Sturdy. If Whimsicott catches Jirachi using a support move, Grass Knot, or Thunderbolt, it can use Prankster Encore to lock Jirachi into that move and drain its health with Leech Seed. Additionally, Krookodile is immune to the combination of Psychic + Thunderbolt. Speaking of Ground-types, Excadrill and Landuros, two common sweepers on a Sandstorm team, can switch into a predicted Thunderbolt, Psychic, or Thunder Wave and easily OHKO with Earthquake. Finally, Latias and Latios both resist Jirachi's most common special attacking moves and set up Calm Minds alongside it, using Roar to remove its boosts if possible.</p>
<p>Physically based sets are slightly easier to check. Due to Serene Grace and Iron Head's high chance to flinch, however, any Pokemon that is paralyzed or is slower than Jirachi risks being flinched to death. Rotom-W, Rotom-H, Heatran, and Empoleon are all x4 resistant to Iron Head, and can take most of Jirachi's other attacks comfortably as well. Bulky Water-types also take minimal damage from Iron Head, and most of them can take a ThunderPunch and heal it off. Most physically defensive Steel-types (such as Skarmory) and Ground-types (Hippowdon) also do a good job of sponging physical Jirachi's attacks, though they risk a burn from Fire Punch should Jirachi run it. Ferrothorn can wall any set that lacks Fire Punch and can either set up Spikes or use Leech Seed. Ferrothorn also has the benefit of chipping Jirachi's health away with Iron Barbs Thorns. Faster Pokemon risk being paralyzed; however, opponents such as Garchomp, Landuros, and Excadrill can all come in comfortably on Thunder Wave and OHKO with a super-effective move.</p>
<p>Despite its versatility, Jirachi does have some very general checks and counters. Heatran can come in on practically any set lacking Hidden Power Ground and immediately threaten with a STAB Fire Blast. Heatran also doesn't mind paralysis too much. Volcarona can also threaten any Jirachi set, as it takes little damage from Jirachi’s common attacks, and it can threaten Jirachi with a STAB Fire-type attack. Volcarona does dislike paralysis however, so be sure to scout the set before attempting to check Jirachi. Magnezone, particularly, is a very special counter as it can trap Jirachi in the battlefield using its Magnet Pull ability and swiftly eliminate it with its choice of Thunderbolt or the correct Hidden Power. Most Jirachi sets (except for those running a good Hidden Power and Fire Punch) are rather unprepared for Magnezone. Like Heatran, Magnezone doesn't mind Thunder Wave too much. Therefore, unless Jirachi has built up enough Calm Minds or has a super effective move, Magnezone is forever a thorn in Jirachi's side eye.</p>
<p> If one were to choose a phrase that best describes Jirachi, this phrase would most likely be <i>Noblesse Oblige</i>, meaning that with great power and influence come great responsibilities. After repeatedly high usage during With evidence from the last two generations, Jirachi remains one of the best Pokemon with a base stat total of 600, and for good reason reasons. Its phenomenal typing and enormous movepool allow it to run a variety of sets that no other competitors can replicate fully. Jirachi’s stats also allow it to perform nearly any role with good insurance, and unlike other rivals such as Shaymin and Latias, all of its stats benefit it. Jirachi’s extremely useful ability, Serene Grace, is still as abusable as ever, paired with moves including but not limited to Iron Head, Body Slam, and Thunder. Jirachi’s list of options is certainly expandable, as it can perform many roles ranging from the classic Calm Mind set to standard physical sets to helpful support sets.</p>
<p>Jirachi’s plethora of options and possibilities are not the only things that benefit Jirachi this generation. With the presence of classic and new threats in the land of the Overused such as Latios, Latias, Reuniclus, Ferrothorn, and Outrage users, Jirachi bravely stand up against many of them. Its Steel- / Psychic-[backspace]typing grants Jirachi nigh eight resistances and a mere two weaknesses, allowing Jirachi to sponge many of the omnipresent Dragon-, Rock-, and Ice-type attacks of OU. On top of this, Jirachi’s typing also grants it easy good access to the battlefield, being immune to both Sandstorm and Toxic Spikes, and making it hard to stall out. To put salt in the wounds, the Wish Pokemon, of course, has access to Wish, granting consistent, reliable healing for itself and its teammates. With all these traits in consideration, Jirachi can easily fit on and support any team with little issue.</p>
[SET]
name: Specially Defensive
move 1: Iron Head
move 2: Body Slam / Thunder Wave
move 3: Wish
move 4: Fire Punch / Protect / Stealth Rock
nature: Careful
item: Leftovers
evs: 252 HP / 224 SpD / 32 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This set utilizes Jirachi’s access to multiple support moves and good defensive typing, given giving Jirachi just two weaknesses and a huge number of resistances, most importantly against Dragon-type moves. With investment in Hit Points and Special Defense, Jirachi can cushion various Special attacks with ease and while providing all-around eloquent support with paralysis and a 200 Hit Point Wish. For example, Jirachi makes a perfectly viable switch-in to Timid Choice Specs Latios' Draco Meteor, losing only 31.4% - 37.1% of its health when hit. This means that Specially Defensive Jirachi can sponge nearly all neutral or resisted hits below this specific attack, one of the most threatening blows powerful attacks in OU. For a less mathematical example of Jirachi's Wish, a Pokemon with an uninvested base 80-90 HP stat (such as Latios, Thundurus, and Volcarona) will recover about two-thirds of its health, which is a considerable improvement in comparison to last generation.</p>
<p>Jirachi is unique when compared to other paralysis-inducers thanks to its ability, Serene Grace, Body Slam, and Iron Head. Body Slam is primary over Thunder Wave because, whereas a multitude of support Pokémon can abuse Thunder Wave, Jirachi can utilize Body Slam to paralyze threats that Thunder Wave cannot, mainly Ground-type Pokémon and faster Taunt users. Notably, Serene Grace doubles Body Slam’s chance to paralyze to a consistent 60%, allowing Jirachi to paralyze a threat most of the time, thanks to its great bulk. In any case, Thunder Wave is always an option over Body Slam for a guaranteed paralysis move. Keep in mind, however, that most support Pokémon have access to Thunder Wave, and Body Slam differentiates Jirachi from its competition. Another trait that Jirachi has over other support Pokemon is Iron Head; this move is complimentary with paralysis and Serene Grace as Jirachi can slowly chip away at an opponent, weakening it for another Pokemon to KO. Iron Head may also allow Jirachi a “free turn” for Wish healing, provided the opponent is flinched. However, this Jirachi should be used defensively at first, so Iron Head usage should be kept to a minimum because of the zero Attack investment.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The last slot is entirely up to the user. Fire Punch provides an efficient buffer against Scizor and Ferrothorn, both of which are significant defensive threats. Protect provides Jirachi with a way to scout for incoming attacks and allows Jirachi heal safely after using Wish. With Protect, Jirachi will not have to rely on Iron Head as much, but it cannot check Scizor or Ferrothorn. Jirachi can further support the team by utilizing Stealth Rock; if the team does not have other entry hazard users available, Jirachi can easily set up Stealth Rocks and still easily function without its other fourth moves. U-Turn is also an option to pass Jirachi’s Wishes safely to another teammate; with Jirachi’s relatively slow Speed without investment and good bulk, it is nearly guaranteed to heal another teammate successfully without the recipient taking damage.</p>
<p>The given EVs allow maximum special bulk while outrunning Jolly Tyranitar. Significant Speed investment is not necessary due to Body Slam or Thunder Wave. Alternatively, one may opt for a more physically defensive spread of 240 HP / 160 Def / 76 SpD / 32 Spe with an Impish nature. This spread allows Jirachi to better take physical attacks while maintaining a reasonable amount of special bulk. It is a perfectly viable alternative over the main spread, depending on the team's needs. Furthermore, Jirachi may opt to invest in 64 Speed EVs in order to outrun maximum Speed Jolly Scizor, a rising occurrence in the metagame.</p>
<p>Jirachi provides support in the form of Wish and a paralysis-inducing move, allowing slower, but powerful, teammates to thrive. Defensively-speaking, a levitating Dragon-type is a perfect team member to receive Jirachi's support; Latios, Latias, Dragonite, Salamence, and Hydreigon are all immune or resistant to Jirachi's weaknesses. Being the powerhouses they are, they can put a dent in the opposing team while being kept alive by Wish. Gyarados, while not a Dragon-type, operates similarly to them and can provide an offensive and/or defensive approach to the team with Dragon Dance, Dragon Tail, and Intimidate. Jirachi in return can easily take the Dragon-, Ice-, and Rock-type moves aimed at all of them and repeat the support process.</p>
[SET]
name: SubCM
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Calm Mind
move 3: Thunderbolt
move 4: Flash Cannon / Psychic / Psyshock
nature: Timid
item: Leftovers
evs: 252 HP / 4 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Being Jirachi’s flagship set in the previous generations, Substitute paired with Calm Mind is still a viable strategy on Jirachi due to the ability to break apart bulky and stall-oriented teams. With good defensive typing and maximum Hit Point investment, Jirachi can set up on multiple Pokemon in OU and proceed to sweep after a few boosts. Unlike other Calm Mind boosters, Jirachi has convenient immunities to passive damage, namely Toxic Spikes and Sandstorm. The magic of this set is that it easily forces defensive Pokemon, like Celebi, Blissey, Chansey, Jellicent, opposing Jirachi, and Porygon2, to struggle while it sets up, making a sweep even all the more easier. The strategy is fairly simple; Jirachi should come in on a resisted attack or support move, and then use Substitute to identify the opponent’s response to it. From there, Jirachi has a few options: set up Calm Mind as the opponent switches to an attacker or initial check, or immediately hit-and-run if the counter is a significant threat.</p>
<p>Substitute and Calm Mind are obviously the integral parts of the set. Whereas Substitute blocks status and scouts for counters and checks, Calm Mind allows Jirachi to be more of a threat, offensively and defensively. For its attacking moves, Thunderbolt is necessary to achieve general coverage. Flash Cannon is the primary STAB option to ensure overall coverage. Flash Cannon notably allows Jirachi to 2HKO Tyranitar, who can would otherwise wall it if Jirachi has not conjured many boosts. Psychic can be a better answer to better handle some other significant OU threats, such as Conkeldurr, Venusaur, and some Fire-type Pokemon. Alternatively, Psyshock gives Jirachi more momentum against physically-weak Pokemon and opposing Calm Mind users, especially Reuniclus and Latias. However, with Substitute and Flash Cannon or Psychic, Jirachi already defeats Chansey and Blissey, the two premier special walls. Choose which STAB move acts in the team's favor most.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>Maximum EV investment in HP is very necessary on this set to boost Jirachi's already great bulk and give it time to Calm Mind. With maximum HP, Jirachi can utilize 101 HP Substitutes, which Seismic Toss users, such as Dusclops and Blissey, cannot break with one Seismic Toss. In addition, maximum Speed speed investment with a Timid nature allows Jirachi to tie with positive base 100 Pokemon, ensuring it will not be revenge killed easily. The Speed speed investment, however, is not necessary; Jirachi can be modified to outrun a certain Speed tier, putting the leftover EVs into Defense or Special Attack. Investing in Defense means that Jirachi can prepare for its sweep in front of weaker physical attacks.</p>
<p>Because Jirachi has to rely on multiple boosts and two attacks to be significantly threatening, it will run into several notable obstacles. Against offensive teams in general, faster Pokemon with a Fire- or Ground-type move prevent Jirachi from obtaining too many Calm Mind boosts. Celebi, Execcutor, Latias, Latios, and Krookodile Crookodile completely wall Jirachi if it chooses to forgo Flash Cannon for Psychic. If Jirachi chooses Flash Cannon, Lanturn, Rotom-W, Swampert, Quagsire, and Magnezone wall Jirachi as well, though with enough Calm Minds, Jirachi can casually overcome these threats until its Substitute is unbreakable. Unaware Quagsire is a rather interesting counter, as it nullifies any boosts Jirachi has executed in the battle and handles Jirachi's unboosted Psychic and Flash Cannon with sick ease. Excadrill walls just about any combination of moves Jirachi chooses. Phazing is also a very serious problem when trying to set up; while Latias and Nidoqueen can force Jirachi out with Roar, Skarmory can survive one Thunderbolt at full health, thanks to Sturdy, and successfully use Whirlwind. Without enough Calm Mind boosts, Jirachi cannot deal enough damage to Scizor with Thunderbolt before Scizor can break its Substitute with U-Turn and switch to a counter, putting Jirachi in an awkward position. Finally, faster Encore and Taunt users pose an annoyance to Jirachi if it is caught using Substitute or Calm Mind. Jirachi especially must look out for Whimsicott, as Whimsicott can easily use Prankster Encore, Taunt, and Substitute to completely nullify Jirachi's efforts.</p>
<p>In order for Jirachi to function effectively, it must have adequate support. Unlike Jirachi’s other sets, it certainly can be paired with more defensive, stall-based teammates. Stealth Rock is essential to negate Skarmory’s Sturdy effect and prevent it from phasing Jirachi and its boosts away. Entry hazard support in general is beneficial so Jirachi can force special attackers out and shuffle the opposing team to score random KOes. Ironically, Skarmory is one of the best hazard layers to pair with Jirachi, as it counters many significant Ground-types and can heal off damage easily with Roost while laying down both Spikes and Stealth Rock. As an added benefit, Skarmory can abuse its Sturdy ability and Whirlwind to phaze out troublesome threats. Keep in mind that both Jirachi and Skarmory must play around their Fire-type weakness. Deoxys-D can also set up both aforementioned entry hazards with ease, and while it does not particularly compliment Jirachi defensively, it brushes off numerous attacks heartily and heals off damage. Toxic Spikes, while a tad unnecessary in comparison to Spikes and Stealth Rock, support allows Jirachi to stall out many threats as it sets up and sweeps, chipping the enemy’s health to KO range. [backspace]</p>
<p>Jirachi also requires some offensive teammates to bring down its counters. Any levitating Dragon-type can easily absorb Jirachi’s two weaknesses and start a scuffle with powerful attacks. Dragonite, Salamence, Hydreigon, and Latios are all but just a few of many capable wallbreaking Dragon-types that can pave the way for Jirachi’s sweep and their own. With at least one Fire-type move and a Dragon-type STAB, these Dragon-types easily eliminate Jirachi’s counters. Bulky Dragon Dance Gyarados, with at least one boost, can defeat most of Jirachi’s problem opponents as well. If Jirachi finds that dealing with weather teams is a problem, Drizzle Politoed is most certainly an instant solution. With a Choice Scarf attached, Politoed is able to revenge kill many weather-reliant threats while changing the weather to stormy skies. With weather in mind, eliminating Excadrill is an extreme priority, since it walls Jirachi no matter which two moves it chooses. Whimsicott can unfortunately only be dealt with by battering it until it faints. Other than some specific counters such as Magic Guard and Magic Bounce users, you must assault and outsmart Whimsicott to kill.</p>
[SET]
name: Superachi! (Offensive Calm Mind)
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Psychic / Psyshock
move 3: Grass Knot / Thunderbolt
move 4: Hidden Power Fire
nature: Timid
item: Leftovers
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Although Jirachi is mostly designed to set up in front of defensively-oriented Pokemon, Superachi is quite the contrary. With an acute emphasis on the offensive side of the spectrum, Jirachi can now serve as both a sizeable sweeper and a lure to most its usual checks and counters. Tyranitar, Scizor, Ferrothorn, Quagsire, and Swampert are destroyed with a super effective move, exterminating them all after just one Calm Mind, giving Jirachi more opportunities to wreak havoc upon the rest of the opposing team. A transition from defense to offense is also safe due to Jirachi’s still-reliable bulk, despite the different investment and strategy.</p>
<p>The set is nothing complicated; Calm Mind is the main move on this set and is complimented by three coverage moves. Jirachi can choose between Psychic and Psyshock as its main STAB. Again, while Psychic-type attacks does not have outstanding coverage alone, with the other moves, these attacks can be especially effective. While Psychic takes immediate advantage of specially-weak threats such as Gliscor, Psyshock is a great alternative due to the ability to eliminate threats that are weaker on the physical side. Jirachi cannot set up on Blissey and other walls as easily, so Psyshock provides a way to dispose of them as soon as possible. Grass Knot accommodates Psychic and Psyshock by immediately disposing of the multiple Water- and Ground-types found in OU; especially Quagsire who would otherwise ignore Jirachi’s Calm Mind boosts with Unaware. Thunderbolt is an acceptable alternative to more reliably counter Skarmory and Vaporeon, though Tyranitar becomes more of a threat without Grass Knot. Finally, Hidden Power Fire completes the set’s coverage by removing Scizor, Ferrothorn, Forretress, and some Grass-types from play promptly. Hidden Power Fire also provides an alternate way of scratching Skarmory without the need for Thunderbolt.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>Like the moveset itself, the EVs are also pretty much straightforward. Here, Jirachi fully invests in Special Attack in order to assault with more zest. With a Timid nature, a Speed IV of 30, and maximum investment in Speed, Jirachi outruns Hydreigon and lower, while managing a Speed tie with positive base 100’s also using an imperfect Speed IV. Hidden Power Ice is worthy of mention to take out most Dragon-types and Gliscor in one hit, while keeping Jirachi’s Speed perfect (Hidden Power Fire forces Jirachi to use a 30 Speed IV). However, with its main options, Jirachi can already hurt Gliscor and the Dragons with preceding damage, and some targets of Hidden Power Ice, such as Garchomp and Landorus Landuros, already outrun and defeat Jirachi.</p>
<p>Like similar offensive sets, Superachi has problems of its own, though it can easily lure in and eliminate its original checks and counters. Heatran makes a pessimistic counter to Jirachi due to a neutrality to Thunderbolt and an immunity or resistance to the rest of Jirachi’s moves. With powerful STAB Fire-type moves, Heatran puts Jirachi in a corner. If Jirachi chooses to forgo Psyshock for Psychic, Blissey and Chansey wall it eternally. Vice-versa, In vice-versa, Gliscor and some physical walls make decent pivots against Psyshock, though a boosted Grass Knot or Hidden Power should easily take care of them with prior damage. As usual, Latias and Latios still make creditable counters to Calm Mind Jirachi due to Jirachi's lack of coverage against the both of them. With Calm Mind (and sometimes Roar), they can still set up alongside Jirachi, though it can usually win Calm Mind wars with Psyshock and its resistances to Dragon- and Psychic-type moves.</p>
<p>With any offensive Jirachi, entry hazards are at least helpful in obtaining some OHKOs Jirachi would not otherwise get. For example, with Stealth Rock on the field, Jirachi handily defeats Zapdos, Gyarados, and Chandelure with a boosted Psychic or Psyshock. A bulky Water-type, such as Suicune or and Gyarados, ensures that Jirachi’s counters in Fire- and Ground-type foes are kept at bay with high health. As usual, levitating Dragon-types resist Jirachi’s two weaknesses as well as upholding a good offensive presence against the opposing team. These Dragon-types also beat most bulky or fast Fire- and Ground- type Pokemon with resistances and a powerful attack. Strong Pursuit users, such as Scizor, Tyranitar, and Bisharp handle Blissey, Chansey, Latias, and Latios fairly well. Since Superachi handily lures in and defeats of its counters, teammates who originally had problems with these Pokemon make fine teammates as well. Kingdra, Tyranitar, Gyarados, Reuniclus, Dragonite, and many others appreciate the removal of their respective counters while offering their own offensive support.</p>
[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Iron Head
move 2: Ice Punch
move 3: Fire Punch
move 4: Trick / U-Turn / Thunderpunch
nature: Jolly
item: Choice Scarf
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>The last generation provided Jirachi two brand-new dangerous weapons that significantly broke its label as only a special attacker: Choice Scarf and Iron Head. With a Choice Scarf equipped, Jirachi gains the ability to revenge kill the majority of faster threats in OU, including but not limited to Latios, Latias, Tornadus, Thundurus, Weavile, most Dragon Dancers, and Shell Breakers. Jirachi's resistances also help utilize this set to its fullest, as it can brush off many priority moves and come in on numerous attacks. However, one would be misguided as to treat this Jirachi as a sweeper or a significant offensive threat. Rather, consider Choice Scarf Jirachi more of a “supporting attacker"; it does not have the immediate power to pose as a noteworthy physical sweeper.</p>
<p>Unlike other users of Choice Scarf, Jirachi makes great use of its his unique ability, Serene Grace, with STAB Iron Head and its increased chance to continually flinch foes, sometimes even to the point of fainting. Fortunately, this alone makes up for Jirachi's just decent Attack stat. Along with Iron Head, Jirachi also has complimentary coverage options in Ice Punch and Fire Punch, accompanied by the user’s choice in the fourth slot. Fire Punch dents most foes that attempt to sponge Iron Head, such as Scizor and Ferrothorn, while Ice Punch eliminates most Dragon- and Flying-types, most notably Landuros, Dragonite, and Garchomp.</p>
<p>Trick allows Jirachi to cripple a would-be counter or defensive wall, while U-Turn allows Jirachi to switch out of its counters, which is helpful with some entry hazards on the field. Finally, ThunderPunch is optional to smack Gyarados and Jellicent, but has little uses outside of that this generation. Alternatively, Thunderbolt can be used over ThunderPunch to more reliably check Gyarados and Skarmory, provided Jirachi uses a Hasty or Naive Nature. However, like ThunderPunch, Thunderbolt is rather specific, and will be rather weak with zero Special Attack investment. Use Trick with consideration, as Jirachi will turn into a less effective attacker without Choice Scarf or an attack-boosting item.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>As far as counters go, the number of Pokemon that can set up on a single move is unfortunately numerous. Since Choice Scarf Jirachi operates as a supporting attacker rather than a major offensive force, not much support will actually be necessary. Teammates who can reliably counter Heatran, Ferrothorn, Scizor, Skarmory, Excadrill, and some Rotom Appliances are appreciated big helps. A strategy is to switch Jirachi out of something that forces it out, and switch in again to revenge kill the foe. Jirachi also appreciates a teammate who can fight against physical walls without difficulty. Entry hazards are fairly efficient with this Jirachi since it will be switching out often. For a quick way to set up hazards, Deoxys-S is usually the best to lay at least one layer of Spikes or Stealth Rock, while an attacking Infernape or Azelf provides both offensive and Stealth Rock support.</p>
[SET]
name: Substitute + Paralysis
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Body Slam / Thunder Wave
move 3: Iron Head
move 4: Fire Punch
nature: Jolly
item: Leftovers
evs: 80 HP / 252 Atk / 176 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This set is a quite different, albeit expected, approach to Jirachi. While the defensive sets are used for pure support in Wish and a paralysis-inducing move, Jirachi can also spread paralysis at a more offensive angle. With Substitute, Jirachi can ease prediction against a would-be threat and successfully paralyze it, proceeding to flinch it to death with Iron Head or forcing it to switch to another vulnerable Pokemon. The primary strategy is simple; Jirachi simply has to paralyze its switch-in, and either Substitute for prediction or switch to a counter. It can then come in again to paralyze more foes and set up behind a Substitute. One may modify this strategy depending on the battle conditions. Another strategy is to keep using Substitute until the opponent is fully paralyzed, though Jirachi is better off switching to another teammate for the purpose of safety and conservation.</p>
<p>As mentioned before, Jirachi is very unique in comparison to other support Pokemon due to its access to Serene Grace, increasing Body Slam's chance to paralyze to 60%. Serene Grace also boosts Iron Head's chance to flinch to 60%. With Iron Head, the opposing Pokemon is forced to attack only 30% of the time with a 100% accurate move. This leaves Jirachi plenty of time to recover with Leftovers, switch to counters or set up Substitutes. With this in mind, Jirachi can be used in the long run and possibly sweep once its checks and counters have been eliminated. Jirachi is given Fire Punch in the last slot to dent any Steel-types attempting to wall Iron Head, especially Ferrothorn, who cannot break your Substitute.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The main EV spread allows Jirachi to outpace positive base 90 Pokemon so it isn't too reliant on paralysis. The Attack investment maximizes Jirachi's offensive power, and the rest is put into Hit Points for a steady amount of bulk. Since this set is dedicated towards paralyzing as many Pokemon as it can, Jirachi can opt for alternative spreads. Maximum Speed is generally not necessary, and Jirachi can invest in bulk as well, so a spread of 252 HP / 224 Atk / 32 Spe with an Adamant nature works fairly well. With 252 HP EVs, Seismic Toss users, like Dusclops and Blissey, cannot break Jirachi's Substitute and will be forced to retreat or take multiple Iron Heads. 224 Attack EVs give Jirachi a fair amount of offense, while 32 Speed EVs allow Jirachi to outspeed Jolly Tyranitar.</p>
<p>Also up to the user's preference is the decision between Body Slam and Thunder Wave. As explained before, Body Slam is what sets Jirachi apart from other support Pokemon, most of whom have access to Thunder Wave. However, if one finds the 60% chance of paralysis life-gambling, Thunder Wave is a perfectly acceptable alternative for reliability in general. Obviously, Thunder Wave cannot hit Ground-types like Garchomp and Excadrill for paralysis, so choose whatever fits the team's needs. Drain Punch can be put in place of Fire Punch for a few reasons; it can still super effectively hit Steel-types while being similar to Fire Punch in terms of damage output. It can also hit Heatran, one of Jirachi's usual counters, for super effective damage. Drain Punch's side effect also gives Jirachi the ability to restore health. With Drain Punch, however, Jirachi loses coverage specifically against Scizor. As a special note, Secret Power can be a viable alternative to Body Slam if one finds it difficult to obtain Body Slam on a cartridge.</p>
<p>While this set is extremely difficult for other players to work around, it definitely has some hard counters. For this Jirachi to be effective, Skarmory, Hippowdon, Toxic Poison Heal Gliscor, Heatran, Empoleon, Tentacruel, Chandelure, and Rotom-W all must be eliminated. In fact, physical walls, Water-, and Fire-type Pokemon in general make good checks to take Iron Head and Fire Punch, though most of them are crippled by paralysis. Again, a levitating Dragon-type works perfectly well with this Jirachi. Latias and Latios can set up Calm Minds in front of most of Jirachi's counters, while Dragonite and Salamence can break walls more easily with the paralysis support Jirachi provides. As a special mention, Togekiss also appreciates paralysis support and can use a strategy of "paraflinching" alongside Jirachi. Defensively, it is immune to Jirachi's Ground-type weakness while Jirachi resists the Rock and Ice -type weakness of Togekiss, and Togekiss can sweep more easily with any of its more offensive sets. On a dedicated paralysis team, Thundurus and Whimsicott are generally the best secondary paralysis-inducers because of their Prankster ability. Whimsicott in particular saves Jirachi from being decimated by Excadrill while being able to paralyze all types with Stun Spore.</p>
[Other Options]
<p>Jirachi has a surplus of interesting options to play with, though its more effective strategies have been listed. Drain Punch is an odd option to heal off damage and super effectively hit Steel-types. It should be noted that Drain Punch has been increased to 75 Base Power in the generation shift, so it is now competitively viable in Jirachi's physically-based sets. Energy Ball is an option for special sets; though Grass Knot is more useful as it hits Jirachi’s counters for more damage, as most of them are heavy, most of them heavy, for more damage.</p>
<p>With Drizzle support from Politoed, Jirachi can opt to run Thunder instead of Thunderbolt for the higher base power and higher chance to paralyze opponents. With Serene Grace factored in, most opponents switching in to Jirachi must be aware of a high chance of paralysis. Also with Drizzle support, Jirachi has its Fire-type weakness halved, and can also run Water Pulse. Factoring in rain, Water Pulse technically has a 90 base power, and with Serene Grace, it has a high chance of inducing confusion, making it an option worth considering for coverage. If you are opting to run Politoed on a team, keep in mind that Jirachi benefits from it marvelously.</p>
<p>Last generation, Jirachi could lure counters and checks and eliminate them by using a mixed set. This mixed set in particular used Iron Head, two elemental punches, and a special move, along with a Naive nature, an Expert Belt, and maximum Speed and Attack. This set could be used to lure and defeat specific threats in the metagame, but is generally weak against the opponent once the special move has been revealed. On this note, Jirachi may choose to utilize a mixed Superachi set as well. With a Naive nature, 120 Attack EVs, Life Orb and Iron Head, Jirachi knocks many counters into[space]the KO range for its special moves. It does not have as much longevity as the original Calm Mind sets due to Life Orb, but it is still an option for surprise. These sets can be used to great value if used with Shell Break Baton Pass Gorebyss, which instantly boosts all of Jirachi's offensive stats and making the always-annoyingever vexing Iron Head even stronger.</p>
<p>Jirachi is also abundant in the support department. With Cosmic Power, Jirachi can run a purely defensive set with Wish and Toxic as compliments. Keep in mind that Jirachi is in danger of Steel-types and Taunt users if Cosmic Power is considered. Jirachi also has access to dual screens, which is perfectly acceptable with U-Turn and Jirachi's good defensive typing. Safeguard prevents status, but it is better off left to a dedicated user of stall or defense. Magic Coat is an odd support option that allows Jirachi to bypass attempts to set up hazards or cripple Jirachi with status moves. For field moves, Jirachi also has Gravity and Trick Room. Whereas Trick Room is decent with Jirachi's Wish and U-Turn, Gravity is generally considered a negligible gimmick. Stealth Rock may be used on any of Jirachi's support sets, but Jirachi generally cannot risk moveslot syndrome.</p>
[Checks and Counters]
<p>By virtue of its near-limitless diversity, it is extremely difficult to find a "hard counter" to Jirachi. Due to the unpredictable nature of Jirachi and the potency of all its sets, prediction is normally the first step to defeating it. Arguably, Jirachi's specially-based sets are the most difficult to challenge. While Substitute + Calm Mind makes many weak attackers and Seismic Toss-reliant Pokemon struggle, its more offensive special sets can put a large dent in any team immediately. Counters to these sets differ depending on the combination of moves Jirachi chooses. If Jirachi isn't using Psyshock or the Substitute + Calm Mind set, Blissey and Chansey sponge its Special Attacks all day. If Skarmory is at full health, it can phaze out Jirachi and survive a Thunderbolt thanks to Sturdy. If Whimsicott catches Jirachi using a support move, Grass Knot, or Thunderbolt, it can use Prankster Encore to lock Jirachi into that move and drain its health with Leech Seed. Additionally, Krookodile is immune to the combination of Psychic + Thunderbolt. Speaking of Ground-types, Excadrill and Landuros, two common sweepers on a Sandstorm team, can switch into a predicted Thunderbolt, Psychic, or Thunder Wave and easily OHKO with Earthquake. Finally, Latias and Latios both resist Jirachi's most common special attacking moves and set up Calm Minds alongside it, using Roar to remove its boosts if possible.</p>
<p>Physically based sets are slightly easier to check. Due to Serene Grace and Iron Head's high chance to flinch, however, any Pokemon that is paralyzed or is slower than Jirachi risks being flinched to death. Rotom-W, Rotom-H, Heatran, and Empoleon are all x4 resistant to Iron Head, and can take most of Jirachi's other attacks comfortably as well. Bulky Water-types also take minimal damage from Iron Head, and most of them can take a ThunderPunch and heal it off. Most physically defensive Steel-types (such as Skarmory) and Ground-types (Hippowdon) also do a good job of sponging physical Jirachi's attacks, though they risk a burn from Fire Punch should Jirachi run it. Ferrothorn can wall any set that lacks Fire Punch and can either set up Spikes or use Leech Seed. Ferrothorn also has the benefit of chipping Jirachi's health away with Iron Barbs Thorns. Faster Pokemon risk being paralyzed; however, opponents such as Garchomp, Landuros, and Excadrill can all come in comfortably on Thunder Wave and OHKO with a super-effective move.</p>
<p>Despite its versatility, Jirachi does have some very general checks and counters. Heatran can come in on practically any set lacking Hidden Power Ground and immediately threaten with a STAB Fire Blast. Heatran also doesn't mind paralysis too much. Volcarona can also threaten any Jirachi set, as it takes little damage from Jirachi’s common attacks, and it can threaten Jirachi with a STAB Fire-type attack. Volcarona does dislike paralysis however, so be sure to scout the set before attempting to check Jirachi. Magnezone, particularly, is a very special counter as it can trap Jirachi in the battlefield using its Magnet Pull ability and swiftly eliminate it with its choice of Thunderbolt or the correct Hidden Power. Most Jirachi sets (except for those running a good Hidden Power and Fire Punch) are rather unprepared for Magnezone. Like Heatran, Magnezone doesn't mind Thunder Wave too much. Therefore, unless Jirachi has built up enough Calm Minds or has a super effective move, Magnezone is forever a thorn in Jirachi's side eye.</p>
Thanks, Ray Jay! (Respect for checking a mammoth like Jirachi)
Alright one more check, and we're done with Jirachi. Let's get this out quickly!
Alright one more check, and we're done with Jirachi. Let's get this out quickly!
Deletions
Additions / Corrections
Comments
Excellent work.
GP 2 / 2
Additions / Corrections
Comments
[OVERVIEW]
<p>If one were to choose a phrase that best describes Jirachi, this phrase would most likely be <i>Noblesse Oblige</i>, meaning that with great power and influence come great responsibilities. After repeatedly high usage during the last two generations, Jirachi remains one of the best Pokemon with a base stat total of 600, and for good reason. Its phenomenal typing and enormous movepool allow it to run a variety of sets that no other competitors can replicate fully. Jirachi’s stats also allow it to perform nearly any role with good insurance, and unlike other rivals such as Shaymin and Latias, all of its stats benefit it. Jirachi’s extremely useful ability, Serene Grace, is still as abusable as ever, paired with moves including but not limited to Iron Head, Body Slam, and Thunder. Jirachi’s list of options is certainly expandable, as it can perform many roles ranging from the classic Calm Mind set to standard physical sets to helpful support sets.</p>
<p>Jirachi’s plethora of options and possibilities are not the only things that benefit Jirachi it this generation. With the presence of classic and new threats in the land of the Overused such as Latios, Latias, Reuniclus, Ferrothorn, and Outrage users, Jirachi bravely stand up against many of them. Its Steel / Psychic typing grants Jirachi nigh eight resistances and a mere two weaknesses, allowing Jirachi to sponge many of the omnipresent Dragon-, Rock-, and Ice-type attacks of OU. On top of this, Jirachi’s typing also grants it easy access to the battlefield, being immune to both sandstorm and Toxic Spikes, making it hard to stall out. To put salt in the wounds, the Wish Pokemon, of course, has access to Wish, granting consistent, reliable healing for itself and its teammates. With all these traits in consideration, Jirachi can easily fit on and support any team with little issue.</p>
[SET]
name: Specially Defensive
move 1: Iron Head
move 2: Body Slam / Thunder Wave
move 3: Wish
move 4: Fire Punch / Protect / Stealth Rock
nature: Careful
item: Leftovers
evs: 252 HP / 224 SpD / 32 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This set utilizes Jirachi’s access to multiple support moves and good defensive typing, given Jirachi has just two weaknesses and a huge number of resistances, most importantly against Dragon-type moves. With investment in HP and Special Defense, Jirachi can cushion various special attacks with ease and while providing all-round support with paralysis and a 200 HP Wish. For example, Jirachi makes a perfectly viable switch-in to Timid Choice Specs Latios' Draco Meteor, losing only 31.4% - 37.1% of its health when hit. This means that Specially Defensive Jirachi can sponge nearly all neutral or resisted hit below this specific attack, one of the most threatening in OU. For a less mathematical example of Jirachi's Wish, a Pokemon with an uninvested base 80-90 HP stat (such as Latios, Thundurus, and Volcarona) will recover about two-thirds of its health, which is a considerable improvement in comparison to last generation.</p>
<p>Jirachi is unique when compared to other paralysis-inducers thanks to its ability, Serene Grace, Body Slam, and Iron Head. Body Slam is primary over Thunder Wave because, whereas a multitude of support Pokémon can abuse Thunder Wave, Jirachi can utilize Body Slam to paralyze threats that Thunder Wave cannot, mainly Ground-type Pokémon and faster Taunt users. Notably, Serene Grace doubles Body Slam’s chance to paralyze to a consistent 60%, allowing Jirachi to paralyze a threat most of the time, thanks to its great bulk. In any case, Thunder Wave is always an option over Body Slam for a guaranteed paralysis move. Keep in mind, however, that most support Pokémon have access to Thunder Wave, and Body Slam differentiates Jirachi from its competition. Another trait that Jirachi has over other support Pokemon is Iron Head; this move is complimentary with paralysis and Serene Grace as Jirachi can slowly chip away at an opponent, weakening it for another Pokemon to KO. Iron Head may also allow Jirachi a “free turn” for Wish healing, provided the opponent is flinched. However, this Jirachi should be used defensively at first, so Iron Head usage should be kept to a minimum because of the zero Attack investment.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The last slot is entirely up to the user. Fire Punch provides an efficient buffer against Scizor and Ferrothorn, both of which are significant defensive threats. Protect provides Jirachi with a way to scout for incoming attacks and allows Jirachi it to heal safely after using Wish. With Protect, Jirachi will not have to rely on Iron Head as much, but it cannot check Scizor or Ferrothorn. Jirachi can further support the team by utilizing Stealth Rock; if the team does not have other entry hazard users available, Jirachi can easily set up Stealth Rocks and still function without its other fourth moves. U-turn is also an option to pass Jirachi’s Wishes safely to another teammate; with Jirachi’s relatively slow Speed without investment and good bulk, it is nearly guaranteed to heal another teammate successfully without the recipient taking damage.</p>
<p>The given EVs allow maximum special bulk while outrunning Jolly Tyranitar. Significant Speed investment is not necessary due to Body Slam or Thunder Wave. Alternatively, one may opt for a more physically defensive spread of 240 HP / 160 Def / 76 SpD / 32 Spe with an Impish nature. This spread allows Jirachi to better take physical attacks while maintaining a reasonable amount of special bulk. It is a perfectly viable alternative over the main spread, depending on the team's needs. Furthermore, Jirachi may opt to invest in 64 Speed EVs in order to outrun maximum Speed Jolly Scizor, a rising occurrence in the metagame.</p>
<p>Jirachi provides support in the form of Wish and a paralysis-inducing move, allowing slower, but powerful, teammates to thrive. Defensively-speaking (remove hyphen), a levitating Dragon-type is a perfect team member to receive Jirachi's support; Latios, Latias, Dragonite, Salamence, and Hydreigon are all immune or resistant to Jirachi's weaknesses. Being the powerhouses they are, they can put a dent in the opposing team while being kept alive by Wish. Gyarados, while not a Dragon-type, operates similarly to them and can provide an offensive and / or defensive approach to the team with Dragon Dance, Dragon Tail, and Intimidate. Jirachi, in return, can easily take the Dragon-, Ice-, and Rock-type moves aimed at all of them and repeat the support process.</p>
[SET]
name: SubCM
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Calm Mind
move 3: Thunderbolt
move 4: Flash Cannon / Psychic / Psyshock
nature: Timid
item: Leftovers
evs: 252 HP / 4 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Being Jirachi’s flagship set in the previous generations, Substitute paired with Calm Mind is still a viable strategy on Jirachi due to the ability to break apart bulky and stall-oriented teams. With good defensive typing and maximum HP investment, Jirachi can set up on multiple Pokemon in OU and proceed to sweep after a few boosts. Unlike other Calm Mind boosters, Jirachi has convenient immunities to passive damage, namely Toxic Spikes and sandstorm. The magic of this set is that it easily forces defensive Pokemon, like such as Celebi, Blissey, Chansey, Jellicent, opposing Jirachi, and Porygon2, to struggle while it sets up, making a sweep even easier. The strategy is fairly simple; Jirachi should come in on a resisted attack or support move, and then use Substitute to identify the opponent’s response to it. From there, Jirachi has a few options: set up Calm Mind as the opponent switches to an attacker or initial check, or immediately hit-and-run if the counter is a significant threat.</p>
<p>Substitute and Calm Mind are obviously the integral parts of the set. Whereas Substitute blocks status and scouts for counters and checks, Calm Mind allows Jirachi to be more of a threat, offensively and defensively. For its attacking moves, Thunderbolt is necessary to achieve general coverage. Flash Cannon is the primary STAB option to ensure overall coverage. Flash Cannon notably allows Jirachi to 2HKO Tyranitar, who can otherwise wall it if Jirachi has not conjured many boosts. Psychic can be a better answer to some other significant OU threats, such as Conkeldurr, Venusaur, and some Fire-type Pokemon. Alternatively, Psyshock gives Jirachi more momentum against physically-weak Pokemon and opposing Calm Mind users, especially Reuniclus and Latias. However, with Substitute and Flash Cannon or Psychic, Jirachi already defeats Chansey and Blissey, the two premier special walls. Choose which STAB move acts in the team's favor most.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>Maximum EV investment in HP is very necessary on this set to boost Jirachi's already great bulk and give it time to Calm Mind. With maximum HP, Jirachi can utilize 101 HP Substitutes, which Seismic Toss users, such as Dusclops and Blissey, cannot break with one Seismic Toss. In addition, maximum Speed investment with a Timid nature allows Jirachi to tie with positive-natured base 100 Pokemon with base 100 Speed, ensuring it will not be revenge killed easily. The Speed investment, however, is not necessary; Jirachi can be modified to outrun a certain Speed tier, putting the leftover EVs into Defense or Special Attack. Investing in Defense means that Jirachi can prepare for its sweep in front of weaker physical attacks.</p>
<p>Because Jirachi has to rely on multiple boosts and two attacks to be significantly threatening, it will run into several notable obstacles. Against offensive teams in general, faster Pokemon with a Fire- or Ground-type move prevent Jirachi from obtaining too many Calm Mind boosts. Celebi, Execcutor, Latias, Latios, and Krookodile completely wall Jirachi if it chooses to forgo Flash Cannon for Psychic. If Jirachi chooses Flash Cannon, Lanturn, Rotom-W, Swampert, Quagsire, and Magnezone wall Jirachi as well, though with enough Calm Minds, Jirachi can casually overcome these threats until its Substitute is unbreakable. Unaware Quagsire is a rather interesting counter, as it nullifies any boosts Jirachi has executed in the battle and handles Jirachi's unboosted Psychic and Flash Cannon with sick ease. Excadrill walls just about any combination of moves Jirachi chooses. Phazing is also a very serious problem when trying to set up; while Latias and Nidoqueen can force Jirachi out with Roar, Skarmory can survive one Thunderbolt at full health, thanks to Sturdy, and successfully use Whirlwind. Without enough Calm Mind boosts, Jirachi cannot deal enough damage to Scizor with Thunderbolt before Scizor can break its Substitute with U-turn and switch to a counter, putting Jirachi in an awkward position. Finally, faster Encore and Taunt users pose an annoyance to Jirachi if it is caught using Substitute or Calm Mind. Jirachi especially must look out for Whimsicott, as Whimsicott can easily use Prankster Encore, Taunt, and Substitute to completely nullify Jirachi's efforts.</p>
<p>In order for Jirachi to function effectively, it must have adequate support. Unlike Jirachi’s other sets, it certainly can be paired with more defensive, stall-based teammates. Stealth Rock is essential to negate Skarmory’s Sturdy effect and prevent it from phasing Jirachi and its boosts away. Entry hazard support in general is beneficial so Jirachi can force special attackers out and shuffle the opposing team to score random KOes. Ironically, Skarmory is one of the best hazard layers to pair with Jirachi, as it counters many significant Ground-types and can heal off damage easily with Roost while laying down both Spikes and Stealth Rock. As an added benefit, Skarmory can abuse its Sturdy ability and use Whirlwind to phaze out troublesome threats. Keep in mind that both Jirachi and Skarmory must play around their Fire-type weakness. Deoxys-D can also set up both aforementioned entry hazards with ease, and while it does not particularly compliment Jirachi defensively, it brushes off numerous attacks heartily and heals off damage. Toxic Spikes support, while a tad unnecessary in comparison to Spikes and Stealth Rock, support allows Jirachi to stall out many threats as it sets up and sweeps, chipping the enemy’s health to KO range.</p>
<p>Jirachi also requires some offensive teammates to bring down its counters. Any levitating Dragon-type can easily absorb Jirachi’s two weaknesses and start a scuffle with powerful attacks. Dragonite, Salamence, Hydreigon, and Latios are all but just a few of many capable wallbreaking Dragon-types that can pave the way for Jirachi’s sweep and their own. With at least one Fire-type move and a Dragon-type STAB, these Dragon-types easily eliminate Jirachi’s counters. Bulky Dragon Dance Gyarados with at least one boost can defeat most of Jirachi’s problem opponents as well. If Jirachi finds that dealing with weather teams is a problem, Drizzle Politoed is most certainly an instant solution. With a Choice Scarf attached, Politoed is able to revenge kill many weather-reliant threats while changing the weather to stormy skies. With weather in mind, eliminating Excadrill is an extreme priority, since it walls Jirachi no matter which two moves it chooses. Whimsicott can unfortunately only be dealt with by battering it until it faints. Other than some specific counters such as Magic Guard and Magic Bounce users, you must assault and outsmart Whimsicott to kill it.</p>
[SET]
name: Superachi! (Offensive Calm Mind)
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Psychic / Psyshock
move 3: Grass Knot / Thunderbolt
move 4: Hidden Power Fire
nature: Timid
item: Leftovers
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Although Jirachi is mostly designed to set up in front of defensively-oriented Pokemon, Superachi is quite the contrary. With an acute emphasis on the offensive side of the spectrum, Jirachi can now serve as both a sizeable sweeper and a lure to most its usual checks and counters. Tyranitar, Scizor, Ferrothorn, Quagsire, and Swampert are destroyed with a super effective move, exterminating them all after just one Calm Mind. This gives Jirachi more opportunities to wreak havoc upon the rest of the opposing team. A transition from defense to offense is also safe due to Jirachi’s still-reliable bulk, despite the different investment and strategy.</p>
<p>The set is nothing complicated; Calm Mind is the main move on this set and is complimented by three coverage moves. Jirachi can choose between Psychic and Psyshock as its main STAB. Again, while Psychic-type attacks does not have outstanding coverage alone, with the other moves, these attacks can be especially effective. While Psychic takes immediate advantage of specially-weak threats such as Gliscor, Psyshock is a great alternative due to the ability to eliminate threats that are weaker on the physical side. Jirachi cannot set up on Blissey and other walls as easily, so Psyshock provides a way to dispose of them as soon as possible. Grass Knot accommodates Psychic and Psyshock by immediately disposing of the multiple Water- and Ground-types found in OU; especially Quagsire who would otherwise ignore Jirachi’s Calm Mind boosts with Unaware. Thunderbolt is an acceptable alternative to more reliably counter Skarmory and Vaporeon, though Tyranitar becomes more of a threat without Grass Knot. Finally, Hidden Power Fire completes the set’s coverage by removing Scizor, Ferrothorn, Forretress, and some Grass-types from play promptly. Hidden Power Fire also provides an alternate way of scratching Skarmory without the need for Thunderbolt.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>Like the moveset itself, the EVs are also pretty much straightforward. Here, Jirachi fully invests in Special Attack in order to assault with more zest. With a Timid nature, a Speed IV of 30, and maximum investment in Speed, Jirachi outruns Hydreigon and lower, while managing a Speed tie with positive-natured base 100s also using an imperfect Speed IV. Hidden Power Ice is worthy of mention to take out most Dragon-types and Gliscor in one hit, while keeping Jirachi’s Speed perfect (Hidden Power Fire forces Jirachi to use a 30 Speed IV). However, with its main options, Jirachi can already hurt Gliscor and the Dragon-types with preceding damage, and some targets of Hidden Power Ice, such as Garchomp and Landorus, already outrun and defeat Jirachi.</p>
<p>Like similar offensive sets, Superachi has problems of its own, though it can easily lure in and eliminate its original checks and counters. Heatran makes a pessimistic counter to Jirachi due to a neutrality to Thunderbolt and an immunity or resistance to the rest of Jirachi’s moves. With powerful STAB Fire-type moves, Heatran puts Jirachi in a corner. If Jirachi chooses to forgo Psyshock for Psychic, Blissey and Chansey wall it eternally. Vice-versa, Gliscor and some physical walls make decent pivots against Psyshock, though a boosted Grass Knot or Hidden Power should easily take care of them with prior damage. As usual, Latias and Latios still make creditable counters to Calm Mind Jirachi due to Jirachi's lack of coverage against the both of them. With Calm Mind (and sometimes Roar), they can still set up alongside Jirachi, though it can usually win Calm Mind wars with Psyshock and its resistances to Dragon- and Psychic-type moves.</p>
<p>With any offensive Jirachi, entry hazards are at least helpful in obtaining some OHKOs Jirachi would not otherwise get. For example, with Stealth Rock on the field, Jirachi handily defeats Zapdos, Gyarados, and Chandelure with a boosted Psychic or Psyshock. A bulky Water-type, such as Suicune or Gyarados, ensures that Jirachi’s counters in Fire- and Ground-type foes are kept at bay with high health. As usual, levitating Dragon-types resist Jirachi’s two weaknesses as well as upholding a good offensive presence against the opposing team. These Dragon-types also beat most bulky or fast Fire- and Ground- type Pokemon with resistances and a powerful attack. Strong Pursuit users, such as Scizor, Tyranitar, and Bisharp handle Blissey, Chansey, Latias, and Latios fairly well. Since Superachi handily lures in and defeats most of its counters, teammates who originally had problems with these Pokemon make fine teammates as well. Kingdra, Tyranitar, Gyarados, Reuniclus, Dragonite, and many others appreciate the removal of their respective counters while offering their own offensive support.</p>
[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Iron Head
move 2: Ice Punch
move 3: Fire Punch
move 4: Trick / U-Turn / Thunderpunch
nature: Jolly
item: Choice Scarf
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>The last generation provided Jirachi two brand-new dangerous weapons that significantly broke its label as only a special attacker: Choice Scarf and Iron Head. With a Choice Scarf equipped, Jirachi gains the ability to revenge kill the majority of faster threats in OU, including but not limited to Latios, Latias, Tornadus, Thundurus, Weavile, most Dragon Dance users, and Shell Break users. Jirachi's resistances also help utilize this set to its fullest, as it can brush off many priority moves and come in on numerous attacks. However, one would be misguided as to treat this Jirachi as a sweeper or a significant offensive threat. Rather, consider Choice Scarf Jirachi more of a “supporting attacker"; it does not have the immediate power to pose as a noteworthy physical sweeper.</p>
<p>Unlike other users of Choice Scarf, Jirachi makes great use of its unique ability, Serene Grace, with STAB Iron Head and its increased chance to continually flinch foes, sometimes even to the point of fainting. Fortunately, this alone makes up for Jirachi's just decent Attack stat. Along with Iron Head, Jirachi also has complimentary coverage options in Ice Punch and Fire Punch, accompanied by the user’s choice in the fourth slot. Fire Punch dents most foes that attempt to sponge Iron Head, such as Scizor and Ferrothorn, while Ice Punch eliminates most Dragon- and Flying-types, most notably Landuros, Dragonite, and Garchomp.</p>
<p>Trick allows Jirachi to cripple a would-be counter or defensive wall, while U-turn allows Jirachi to switch out of its counters, which is helpful with some entry hazards on the field. Finally, ThunderPunch is optional to smack Gyarados and Jellicent, but has little uses outside of that this generation. Alternatively, Thunderbolt can be used over ThunderPunch to more reliably check Gyarados and Skarmory, provided Jirachi uses a Hasty or Naive nature. However, like ThunderPunch, Thunderbolt is rather specific, and will be rather weak with zero Special Attack investment. Use Trick with consideration, as Jirachi will turn into a less effective attacker without Choice Scarf or an attack-boosting item.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>As far as counters go, the number of Pokemon that can set up on a single move is unfortunately numerous. Since Choice Scarf Jirachi operates as a supporting attacker rather than a major offensive force, not much support will actually be necessary. Teammates who can reliably counter Heatran, Ferrothorn, Scizor, Skarmory, Excadrill, and some Rotom Appliances formes are appreciated. A strategy is to switch Jirachi out of something that forces it out, and switch in again to revenge kill the foe. Jirachi also appreciates a teammate who can fight against physical walls without difficulty. Entry hazards are fairly efficient with this Jirachi, since it will be switching out often. For a quick way to set up hazards, Deoxys-S is usually the best to lay at least one layer of Spikes or Stealth Rock, while an attacking Infernape or Azelf provides both offensive and Stealth Rock support.</p>
[SET]
name: Substitute + Paralysis
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Body Slam / Thunder Wave
move 3: Iron Head
move 4: Fire Punch
nature: Jolly
item: Leftovers
evs: 80 HP / 252 Atk / 176 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This set is a quite different, albeit expected, approach to Jirachi. While the defensive sets are used for pure support in Wish and a paralysis-inducing move, Jirachi can also spread paralysis at from a more offensive angle. With Substitute, Jirachi can ease prediction against a would-be threat and successfully paralyze it, proceeding to flinch it to death with Iron Head or forcing it to switch to another vulnerable Pokemon. The primary strategy is simple; Jirachi simply has to paralyze its switch-in, and either Substitute for prediction or switch to a counter. It can then come in again to paralyze more foes and set up behind a Substitute. One may modify this strategy depending on the battle conditions. Another strategy is to keep using Substitute until the opponent is fully paralyzed, though Jirachi is better off switching to another teammate for the purpose of safety and conservation.</p>
<p>As mentioned before, Jirachi is very unique in comparison to other support Pokemon due to its access to Serene Grace, increasing Body Slam's chance to paralyze to 60%. Serene Grace also boosts Iron Head's chance to flinch to 60%. With Iron Head, the opposing Pokemon is forced to attack only 30% of the time with a 100% accurate move. This leaves Jirachi with plenty of time to recover with Leftovers, switch to a counter or set up Substitutes. With this in mind, Jirachi can be used in the long run and possibly sweep once its checks and counters have been eliminated. Jirachi is given Fire Punch in the last slot to dent any Steel-types attempting to wall Iron Head, especially Ferrothorn who cannot break your Substitute.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The main EV spread allows Jirachi to outpace positive-natured base 90 Pokemon with base 100 Speed, so it isn't too reliant on paralysis. The Attack investment maximizes Jirachi's offensive power, and the rest is put into HP for a steady amount of bulk. Since this set is dedicated towards paralyzing as many Pokemon as it can, Jirachi can opt for alternative EV spreads. Maximum Speed is generally not necessary, and Jirachi can invest in bulk as well, so a spread of 252 HP / 224 Atk / 32 Spe with an Adamant nature works fairly well. With 252 HP EVs, Seismic Toss users, like such as Dusclops and Blissey, cannot break Jirachi's Substitute and will be forced to retreat or take multiple Iron Heads. 224 Attack EVs give Jirachi a fair amount of offense, while 32 Speed EVs allow Jirachi to outspeed Jolly Tyranitar.</p>
<p>Also up to the user's preference is the decision between Body Slam and Thunder Wave. As explained before, Body Slam is what sets Jirachi apart from other support Pokemon, most of whom have access to Thunder Wave. However, if one finds the 60% chance of paralysis life-gambling, Thunder Wave is a perfectly acceptable alternative for reliability in general. Obviously, Thunder Wave cannot hit Ground-types like such as Garchomp and Excadrill for paralysis, so choose whatever fits the team's needs. Drain Punch can be put in place of Fire Punch for a few reasons; it can still super effectively hit Steel-types while being similar to Fire Punch in terms of damage output. It can also hit Heatran, one of Jirachi's usual counters, for super effective damage. Drain Punch's side effect also gives Jirachi the ability to restore health. With Drain Punch, however, Jirachi loses coverage specifically against Scizor. As a special note, Secret Power can be a viable alternative to Body Slam if one finds it difficult to obtain Body Slam on a cartridge.</p>
<p>While this set is extremely difficult for other players to work around, it definitely has some hard counters. For this Jirachi to be effective, Skarmory, Hippowdon, Poison Heal Gliscor, Heatran, Empoleon, Tentacruel, Chandelure, and Rotom-W all must be eliminated. In fact, physical walls, Water-, and Fire-type Pokemon in general make good checks to take Iron Head and Fire Punch, though most of them are crippled by paralysis. Again, a levitating Dragon-type works perfectly well with this Jirachi. Latias and Latios can set up Calm Minds in front of most of Jirachi's counters, while Dragonite and Salamence can break walls more easily with the paralysis support Jirachi provides. As a special mention, Togekiss also appreciates paralysis support, and can use a strategy of "paraflinching" alongside Jirachi. Defensively, it is immune to Jirachi's Ground-type weakness, while Jirachi resists the Rock- and Ice-type weaknesses of Togekiss, and Togekiss can sweep more easily with any of its more offensive sets. On a dedicated paralysis team, Thundurus and Whimsicott are generally the best secondary paralysis-inducers because of their Prankster ability. Whimsicott in particular saves Jirachi from being decimated by Excadrill while being able to paralyze all types with Stun Spore.</p>
[Other Options]
<p>Jirachi has a surplus of interesting options to play with, though its more effective strategies have been listed. Drain Punch is an odd option to heal off damage and super effectively hit Steel-types. It should be noted that Drain Punch has been increased to 75 Base Power in the generation shift, so it is now competitively viable in Jirachi's physically-based sets. Energy Ball is an option for special sets; though Grass Knot is more useful as it hits Jirachi’s counters for more damage, as most of them are heavy.</p>
<p>With Drizzle support from Politoed, Jirachi can opt to run Thunder instead of Thunderbolt for the higher Base Power and higher chance to paralyze opponents. With Serene Grace factored in, most opponents switching into Jirachi must be aware of a high chance of paralysis. Also with Drizzle support, Jirachi has its Fire-type weakness halved, and can also run Water Pulse. Factoring in rain, Water Pulse technically has a 90 base power, and with Serene Grace, it has a high chance of inducing confusion, making it an option worth considering for coverage. If you are opting to run Politoed on a team, keep in mind that Jirachi benefits from it marvelously.</p>
<p>Last generation, Jirachi could lure counters and checks and eliminate them by using a mixed set. This mixed set in particular used Iron Head, two elemental punches, and a special move, along with a Naive nature, an Expert Belt, and maximum Speed and Attack. This set could be used to lure and defeat specific threats in the metagame, but is generally weak against the opponent once the special move has been revealed. On this note, Jirachi may choose to utilize a mixed Superachi set as well. With a Naive nature, 120 Attack EVs, Life Orb, and Iron Head, Jirachi knocks many counters into the KO range for its special moves. It does not have as much longevity as the original Calm Mind sets due to Life Orb, but it is still an option for surprise. These sets can be used to great value if used with Shell Break Baton Pass Gorebyss, which instantly boosts all of Jirachi's offensive stats, and makes the always-annoying Iron Head even stronger.</p>
<p>Jirachi is also abundant in the support department. With Cosmic Power, Jirachi can run a purely defensive set with Wish and Toxic as compliments. Keep in mind that Jirachi is in danger of vulnerable to Steel-types and Taunt users if Cosmic Power is considered. Jirachi also has access to dual screens, which is perfectly acceptable with U-turn and Jirachi's good defensive typing. Safeguard prevents status, but it is better off left to a dedicated user of stall or defense. Magic Coat is an odd support option that allows Jirachi to bypass attempts to set up hazards or cripple Jirachi with status moves. For field moves, Jirachi also has Gravity and Trick Room. Whereas Trick Room is decent with Jirachi's Wish and U-turn, Gravity is generally considered a negligible gimmick. Stealth Rock may be used on any of Jirachi's support sets, but Jirachi generally cannot risk moveslot syndrome.</p>
[Checks and Counters]
<p>By virtue of its near-limitless diversity, it is extremely difficult to find a "hard counter" to Jirachi. Due to the unpredictable nature of Jirachi and the potency of all its sets, prediction is normally the first step to defeating it. Arguably, Jirachi's specially-based sets are the most difficult to challenge. While Substitute + Calm Mind makes many weak attackers and Seismic Toss-reliant Pokemon struggle, its more offensive special sets can put a large dent in any team immediately. Counters to these sets differ depending on the combination of moves Jirachi chooses. If Jirachi isn't using Psyshock or the Substitute + Calm Mind set, Blissey and Chansey sponge its special attacks all day. If Skarmory is at full health, it can phaze out Jirachi and survive a Thunderbolt thanks to Sturdy. If Whimsicott catches Jirachi using a support move, Grass Knot, or Thunderbolt, it can use Prankster Encore to lock Jirachi into that move and drain its health with Leech Seed. Additionally, Krookodile, though pretty rare in OU, is immune to the combination of Psychic + Thunderbolt. Speaking of Ground-types, Excadrill and Landorus, two common sweepers on a sandstorm team, can switch into a predicted Thunderbolt, Psychic, or Thunder Wave, and easily OHKO with Earthquake. Finally, Latias and Latios both resist Jirachi's most common special attacking moves and set up Calm Minds alongside it, using Roar to remove its boosts if possible.</p>
<p>Physically based sets are slightly easier to check. Due to Serene Grace and Iron Head's high chance to flinch, however, any Pokemon that is paralyzed or is slower than Jirachi risks being flinched to death. Rotom-W, Rotom-H, Heatran, and Empoleon are all 4x resistant to Iron Head, and can take most of Jirachi's other attacks comfortably as well. Bulky Water-types also take minimal damage from Iron Head, and most of them can take a ThunderPunch and heal it off. Most physically defensive Steel-types (such as Skarmory) and Ground-types (Hippowdon) also do a good job of sponging physical Jirachi's attacks, though they risk a burn from Fire Punch should Jirachi run it. Ferrothorn can wall any set that lacks Fire Punch, and can either set up Spikes or use Leech Seed. Ferrothorn also has the benefit of chipping Jirachi's health away with Iron Barbs. Faster Pokemon risk being paralyzed; however, opponents such as Garchomp, Landorus, and Excadrill can all come in comfortably on Thunder Wave and OHKO with a super-effective (remove hyphen) move.</p>
<p>Despite its versatility, Jirachi does have some very general checks and counters. Heatran can come in on practically any set lacking Hidden Power Ground, and immediately threaten Jirachi with a STAB Fire Blast. Heatran also doesn't mind paralysis too much. Volcarona can also threaten any Jirachi set, as it takes little damage from Jirachi’s common attacks, and it can threaten Jirachi with a STAB Fire-type attack. Volcarona does dislike paralysis however, so be sure to scout the set before attempting to check Jirachi. Magnezone, particularly, is a very special counter as it can trap Jirachi in the battlefield using its Magnet Pull ability and swiftly eliminate it with its choice of Thunderbolt or the correct Hidden Power. Most Jirachi sets (except for those running a good Hidden Power and Fire Punch) are rather unprepared for Magnezone. Like Heatran, Magnezone doesn't mind Thunder Wave too much. Therefore, unless Jirachi has built up enough Calm Minds or has a super effective move, Magnezone is forever a thorn in Jirachi's side.</p>
<p>If one were to choose a phrase that best describes Jirachi, this phrase would most likely be <i>Noblesse Oblige</i>, meaning that with great power and influence come great responsibilities. After repeatedly high usage during the last two generations, Jirachi remains one of the best Pokemon with a base stat total of 600, and for good reason. Its phenomenal typing and enormous movepool allow it to run a variety of sets that no other competitors can replicate fully. Jirachi’s stats also allow it to perform nearly any role with good insurance, and unlike other rivals such as Shaymin and Latias, all of its stats benefit it. Jirachi’s extremely useful ability, Serene Grace, is still as abusable as ever, paired with moves including but not limited to Iron Head, Body Slam, and Thunder. Jirachi’s list of options is certainly expandable, as it can perform many roles ranging from the classic Calm Mind set to standard physical sets to helpful support sets.</p>
<p>Jirachi’s plethora of options and possibilities are not the only things that benefit Jirachi it this generation. With the presence of classic and new threats in the land of the Overused such as Latios, Latias, Reuniclus, Ferrothorn, and Outrage users, Jirachi bravely stand up against many of them. Its Steel / Psychic typing grants Jirachi nigh eight resistances and a mere two weaknesses, allowing Jirachi to sponge many of the omnipresent Dragon-, Rock-, and Ice-type attacks of OU. On top of this, Jirachi’s typing also grants it easy access to the battlefield, being immune to both sandstorm and Toxic Spikes, making it hard to stall out. To put salt in the wounds, the Wish Pokemon, of course, has access to Wish, granting consistent, reliable healing for itself and its teammates. With all these traits in consideration, Jirachi can easily fit on and support any team with little issue.</p>
[SET]
name: Specially Defensive
move 1: Iron Head
move 2: Body Slam / Thunder Wave
move 3: Wish
move 4: Fire Punch / Protect / Stealth Rock
nature: Careful
item: Leftovers
evs: 252 HP / 224 SpD / 32 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This set utilizes Jirachi’s access to multiple support moves and good defensive typing, given Jirachi has just two weaknesses and a huge number of resistances, most importantly against Dragon-type moves. With investment in HP and Special Defense, Jirachi can cushion various special attacks with ease and while providing all-round support with paralysis and a 200 HP Wish. For example, Jirachi makes a perfectly viable switch-in to Timid Choice Specs Latios' Draco Meteor, losing only 31.4% - 37.1% of its health when hit. This means that Specially Defensive Jirachi can sponge nearly all neutral or resisted hit below this specific attack, one of the most threatening in OU. For a less mathematical example of Jirachi's Wish, a Pokemon with an uninvested base 80-90 HP stat (such as Latios, Thundurus, and Volcarona) will recover about two-thirds of its health, which is a considerable improvement in comparison to last generation.</p>
<p>Jirachi is unique when compared to other paralysis-inducers thanks to its ability, Serene Grace, Body Slam, and Iron Head. Body Slam is primary over Thunder Wave because, whereas a multitude of support Pokémon can abuse Thunder Wave, Jirachi can utilize Body Slam to paralyze threats that Thunder Wave cannot, mainly Ground-type Pokémon and faster Taunt users. Notably, Serene Grace doubles Body Slam’s chance to paralyze to a consistent 60%, allowing Jirachi to paralyze a threat most of the time, thanks to its great bulk. In any case, Thunder Wave is always an option over Body Slam for a guaranteed paralysis move. Keep in mind, however, that most support Pokémon have access to Thunder Wave, and Body Slam differentiates Jirachi from its competition. Another trait that Jirachi has over other support Pokemon is Iron Head; this move is complimentary with paralysis and Serene Grace as Jirachi can slowly chip away at an opponent, weakening it for another Pokemon to KO. Iron Head may also allow Jirachi a “free turn” for Wish healing, provided the opponent is flinched. However, this Jirachi should be used defensively at first, so Iron Head usage should be kept to a minimum because of the zero Attack investment.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The last slot is entirely up to the user. Fire Punch provides an efficient buffer against Scizor and Ferrothorn, both of which are significant defensive threats. Protect provides Jirachi with a way to scout for incoming attacks and allows Jirachi it to heal safely after using Wish. With Protect, Jirachi will not have to rely on Iron Head as much, but it cannot check Scizor or Ferrothorn. Jirachi can further support the team by utilizing Stealth Rock; if the team does not have other entry hazard users available, Jirachi can easily set up Stealth Rocks and still function without its other fourth moves. U-turn is also an option to pass Jirachi’s Wishes safely to another teammate; with Jirachi’s relatively slow Speed without investment and good bulk, it is nearly guaranteed to heal another teammate successfully without the recipient taking damage.</p>
<p>The given EVs allow maximum special bulk while outrunning Jolly Tyranitar. Significant Speed investment is not necessary due to Body Slam or Thunder Wave. Alternatively, one may opt for a more physically defensive spread of 240 HP / 160 Def / 76 SpD / 32 Spe with an Impish nature. This spread allows Jirachi to better take physical attacks while maintaining a reasonable amount of special bulk. It is a perfectly viable alternative over the main spread, depending on the team's needs. Furthermore, Jirachi may opt to invest in 64 Speed EVs in order to outrun maximum Speed Jolly Scizor, a rising occurrence in the metagame.</p>
<p>Jirachi provides support in the form of Wish and a paralysis-inducing move, allowing slower, but powerful, teammates to thrive. Defensively-speaking (remove hyphen), a levitating Dragon-type is a perfect team member to receive Jirachi's support; Latios, Latias, Dragonite, Salamence, and Hydreigon are all immune or resistant to Jirachi's weaknesses. Being the powerhouses they are, they can put a dent in the opposing team while being kept alive by Wish. Gyarados, while not a Dragon-type, operates similarly to them and can provide an offensive and / or defensive approach to the team with Dragon Dance, Dragon Tail, and Intimidate. Jirachi, in return, can easily take the Dragon-, Ice-, and Rock-type moves aimed at all of them and repeat the support process.</p>
[SET]
name: SubCM
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Calm Mind
move 3: Thunderbolt
move 4: Flash Cannon / Psychic / Psyshock
nature: Timid
item: Leftovers
evs: 252 HP / 4 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Being Jirachi’s flagship set in the previous generations, Substitute paired with Calm Mind is still a viable strategy on Jirachi due to the ability to break apart bulky and stall-oriented teams. With good defensive typing and maximum HP investment, Jirachi can set up on multiple Pokemon in OU and proceed to sweep after a few boosts. Unlike other Calm Mind boosters, Jirachi has convenient immunities to passive damage, namely Toxic Spikes and sandstorm. The magic of this set is that it easily forces defensive Pokemon, like such as Celebi, Blissey, Chansey, Jellicent, opposing Jirachi, and Porygon2, to struggle while it sets up, making a sweep even easier. The strategy is fairly simple; Jirachi should come in on a resisted attack or support move, and then use Substitute to identify the opponent’s response to it. From there, Jirachi has a few options: set up Calm Mind as the opponent switches to an attacker or initial check, or immediately hit-and-run if the counter is a significant threat.</p>
<p>Substitute and Calm Mind are obviously the integral parts of the set. Whereas Substitute blocks status and scouts for counters and checks, Calm Mind allows Jirachi to be more of a threat, offensively and defensively. For its attacking moves, Thunderbolt is necessary to achieve general coverage. Flash Cannon is the primary STAB option to ensure overall coverage. Flash Cannon notably allows Jirachi to 2HKO Tyranitar, who can otherwise wall it if Jirachi has not conjured many boosts. Psychic can be a better answer to some other significant OU threats, such as Conkeldurr, Venusaur, and some Fire-type Pokemon. Alternatively, Psyshock gives Jirachi more momentum against physically-weak Pokemon and opposing Calm Mind users, especially Reuniclus and Latias. However, with Substitute and Flash Cannon or Psychic, Jirachi already defeats Chansey and Blissey, the two premier special walls. Choose which STAB move acts in the team's favor most.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>Maximum EV investment in HP is very necessary on this set to boost Jirachi's already great bulk and give it time to Calm Mind. With maximum HP, Jirachi can utilize 101 HP Substitutes, which Seismic Toss users, such as Dusclops and Blissey, cannot break with one Seismic Toss. In addition, maximum Speed investment with a Timid nature allows Jirachi to tie with positive-natured base 100 Pokemon with base 100 Speed, ensuring it will not be revenge killed easily. The Speed investment, however, is not necessary; Jirachi can be modified to outrun a certain Speed tier, putting the leftover EVs into Defense or Special Attack. Investing in Defense means that Jirachi can prepare for its sweep in front of weaker physical attacks.</p>
<p>Because Jirachi has to rely on multiple boosts and two attacks to be significantly threatening, it will run into several notable obstacles. Against offensive teams in general, faster Pokemon with a Fire- or Ground-type move prevent Jirachi from obtaining too many Calm Mind boosts. Celebi, Execcutor, Latias, Latios, and Krookodile completely wall Jirachi if it chooses to forgo Flash Cannon for Psychic. If Jirachi chooses Flash Cannon, Lanturn, Rotom-W, Swampert, Quagsire, and Magnezone wall Jirachi as well, though with enough Calm Minds, Jirachi can casually overcome these threats until its Substitute is unbreakable. Unaware Quagsire is a rather interesting counter, as it nullifies any boosts Jirachi has executed in the battle and handles Jirachi's unboosted Psychic and Flash Cannon with sick ease. Excadrill walls just about any combination of moves Jirachi chooses. Phazing is also a very serious problem when trying to set up; while Latias and Nidoqueen can force Jirachi out with Roar, Skarmory can survive one Thunderbolt at full health, thanks to Sturdy, and successfully use Whirlwind. Without enough Calm Mind boosts, Jirachi cannot deal enough damage to Scizor with Thunderbolt before Scizor can break its Substitute with U-turn and switch to a counter, putting Jirachi in an awkward position. Finally, faster Encore and Taunt users pose an annoyance to Jirachi if it is caught using Substitute or Calm Mind. Jirachi especially must look out for Whimsicott, as Whimsicott can easily use Prankster Encore, Taunt, and Substitute to completely nullify Jirachi's efforts.</p>
<p>In order for Jirachi to function effectively, it must have adequate support. Unlike Jirachi’s other sets, it certainly can be paired with more defensive, stall-based teammates. Stealth Rock is essential to negate Skarmory’s Sturdy effect and prevent it from phasing Jirachi and its boosts away. Entry hazard support in general is beneficial so Jirachi can force special attackers out and shuffle the opposing team to score random KOes. Ironically, Skarmory is one of the best hazard layers to pair with Jirachi, as it counters many significant Ground-types and can heal off damage easily with Roost while laying down both Spikes and Stealth Rock. As an added benefit, Skarmory can abuse its Sturdy ability and use Whirlwind to phaze out troublesome threats. Keep in mind that both Jirachi and Skarmory must play around their Fire-type weakness. Deoxys-D can also set up both aforementioned entry hazards with ease, and while it does not particularly compliment Jirachi defensively, it brushes off numerous attacks heartily and heals off damage. Toxic Spikes support, while a tad unnecessary in comparison to Spikes and Stealth Rock, support allows Jirachi to stall out many threats as it sets up and sweeps, chipping the enemy’s health to KO range.</p>
<p>Jirachi also requires some offensive teammates to bring down its counters. Any levitating Dragon-type can easily absorb Jirachi’s two weaknesses and start a scuffle with powerful attacks. Dragonite, Salamence, Hydreigon, and Latios are all but just a few of many capable wallbreaking Dragon-types that can pave the way for Jirachi’s sweep and their own. With at least one Fire-type move and a Dragon-type STAB, these Dragon-types easily eliminate Jirachi’s counters. Bulky Dragon Dance Gyarados with at least one boost can defeat most of Jirachi’s problem opponents as well. If Jirachi finds that dealing with weather teams is a problem, Drizzle Politoed is most certainly an instant solution. With a Choice Scarf attached, Politoed is able to revenge kill many weather-reliant threats while changing the weather to stormy skies. With weather in mind, eliminating Excadrill is an extreme priority, since it walls Jirachi no matter which two moves it chooses. Whimsicott can unfortunately only be dealt with by battering it until it faints. Other than some specific counters such as Magic Guard and Magic Bounce users, you must assault and outsmart Whimsicott to kill it.</p>
[SET]
name: Superachi! (Offensive Calm Mind)
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Psychic / Psyshock
move 3: Grass Knot / Thunderbolt
move 4: Hidden Power Fire
nature: Timid
item: Leftovers
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Although Jirachi is mostly designed to set up in front of defensively-oriented Pokemon, Superachi is quite the contrary. With an acute emphasis on the offensive side of the spectrum, Jirachi can now serve as both a sizeable sweeper and a lure to most its usual checks and counters. Tyranitar, Scizor, Ferrothorn, Quagsire, and Swampert are destroyed with a super effective move, exterminating them all after just one Calm Mind. This gives Jirachi more opportunities to wreak havoc upon the rest of the opposing team. A transition from defense to offense is also safe due to Jirachi’s still-reliable bulk, despite the different investment and strategy.</p>
<p>The set is nothing complicated; Calm Mind is the main move on this set and is complimented by three coverage moves. Jirachi can choose between Psychic and Psyshock as its main STAB. Again, while Psychic-type attacks does not have outstanding coverage alone, with the other moves, these attacks can be especially effective. While Psychic takes immediate advantage of specially-weak threats such as Gliscor, Psyshock is a great alternative due to the ability to eliminate threats that are weaker on the physical side. Jirachi cannot set up on Blissey and other walls as easily, so Psyshock provides a way to dispose of them as soon as possible. Grass Knot accommodates Psychic and Psyshock by immediately disposing of the multiple Water- and Ground-types found in OU; especially Quagsire who would otherwise ignore Jirachi’s Calm Mind boosts with Unaware. Thunderbolt is an acceptable alternative to more reliably counter Skarmory and Vaporeon, though Tyranitar becomes more of a threat without Grass Knot. Finally, Hidden Power Fire completes the set’s coverage by removing Scizor, Ferrothorn, Forretress, and some Grass-types from play promptly. Hidden Power Fire also provides an alternate way of scratching Skarmory without the need for Thunderbolt.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>Like the moveset itself, the EVs are also pretty much straightforward. Here, Jirachi fully invests in Special Attack in order to assault with more zest. With a Timid nature, a Speed IV of 30, and maximum investment in Speed, Jirachi outruns Hydreigon and lower, while managing a Speed tie with positive-natured base 100s also using an imperfect Speed IV. Hidden Power Ice is worthy of mention to take out most Dragon-types and Gliscor in one hit, while keeping Jirachi’s Speed perfect (Hidden Power Fire forces Jirachi to use a 30 Speed IV). However, with its main options, Jirachi can already hurt Gliscor and the Dragon-types with preceding damage, and some targets of Hidden Power Ice, such as Garchomp and Landorus, already outrun and defeat Jirachi.</p>
<p>Like similar offensive sets, Superachi has problems of its own, though it can easily lure in and eliminate its original checks and counters. Heatran makes a pessimistic counter to Jirachi due to a neutrality to Thunderbolt and an immunity or resistance to the rest of Jirachi’s moves. With powerful STAB Fire-type moves, Heatran puts Jirachi in a corner. If Jirachi chooses to forgo Psyshock for Psychic, Blissey and Chansey wall it eternally. Vice-versa, Gliscor and some physical walls make decent pivots against Psyshock, though a boosted Grass Knot or Hidden Power should easily take care of them with prior damage. As usual, Latias and Latios still make creditable counters to Calm Mind Jirachi due to Jirachi's lack of coverage against the both of them. With Calm Mind (and sometimes Roar), they can still set up alongside Jirachi, though it can usually win Calm Mind wars with Psyshock and its resistances to Dragon- and Psychic-type moves.</p>
<p>With any offensive Jirachi, entry hazards are at least helpful in obtaining some OHKOs Jirachi would not otherwise get. For example, with Stealth Rock on the field, Jirachi handily defeats Zapdos, Gyarados, and Chandelure with a boosted Psychic or Psyshock. A bulky Water-type, such as Suicune or Gyarados, ensures that Jirachi’s counters in Fire- and Ground-type foes are kept at bay with high health. As usual, levitating Dragon-types resist Jirachi’s two weaknesses as well as upholding a good offensive presence against the opposing team. These Dragon-types also beat most bulky or fast Fire- and Ground- type Pokemon with resistances and a powerful attack. Strong Pursuit users, such as Scizor, Tyranitar, and Bisharp handle Blissey, Chansey, Latias, and Latios fairly well. Since Superachi handily lures in and defeats most of its counters, teammates who originally had problems with these Pokemon make fine teammates as well. Kingdra, Tyranitar, Gyarados, Reuniclus, Dragonite, and many others appreciate the removal of their respective counters while offering their own offensive support.</p>
[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Iron Head
move 2: Ice Punch
move 3: Fire Punch
move 4: Trick / U-Turn / Thunderpunch
nature: Jolly
item: Choice Scarf
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>The last generation provided Jirachi two brand-new dangerous weapons that significantly broke its label as only a special attacker: Choice Scarf and Iron Head. With a Choice Scarf equipped, Jirachi gains the ability to revenge kill the majority of faster threats in OU, including but not limited to Latios, Latias, Tornadus, Thundurus, Weavile, most Dragon Dance users, and Shell Break users. Jirachi's resistances also help utilize this set to its fullest, as it can brush off many priority moves and come in on numerous attacks. However, one would be misguided as to treat this Jirachi as a sweeper or a significant offensive threat. Rather, consider Choice Scarf Jirachi more of a “supporting attacker"; it does not have the immediate power to pose as a noteworthy physical sweeper.</p>
<p>Unlike other users of Choice Scarf, Jirachi makes great use of its unique ability, Serene Grace, with STAB Iron Head and its increased chance to continually flinch foes, sometimes even to the point of fainting. Fortunately, this alone makes up for Jirachi's just decent Attack stat. Along with Iron Head, Jirachi also has complimentary coverage options in Ice Punch and Fire Punch, accompanied by the user’s choice in the fourth slot. Fire Punch dents most foes that attempt to sponge Iron Head, such as Scizor and Ferrothorn, while Ice Punch eliminates most Dragon- and Flying-types, most notably Landuros, Dragonite, and Garchomp.</p>
<p>Trick allows Jirachi to cripple a would-be counter or defensive wall, while U-turn allows Jirachi to switch out of its counters, which is helpful with some entry hazards on the field. Finally, ThunderPunch is optional to smack Gyarados and Jellicent, but has little uses outside of that this generation. Alternatively, Thunderbolt can be used over ThunderPunch to more reliably check Gyarados and Skarmory, provided Jirachi uses a Hasty or Naive nature. However, like ThunderPunch, Thunderbolt is rather specific, and will be rather weak with zero Special Attack investment. Use Trick with consideration, as Jirachi will turn into a less effective attacker without Choice Scarf or an attack-boosting item.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>As far as counters go, the number of Pokemon that can set up on a single move is unfortunately numerous. Since Choice Scarf Jirachi operates as a supporting attacker rather than a major offensive force, not much support will actually be necessary. Teammates who can reliably counter Heatran, Ferrothorn, Scizor, Skarmory, Excadrill, and some Rotom Appliances formes are appreciated. A strategy is to switch Jirachi out of something that forces it out, and switch in again to revenge kill the foe. Jirachi also appreciates a teammate who can fight against physical walls without difficulty. Entry hazards are fairly efficient with this Jirachi, since it will be switching out often. For a quick way to set up hazards, Deoxys-S is usually the best to lay at least one layer of Spikes or Stealth Rock, while an attacking Infernape or Azelf provides both offensive and Stealth Rock support.</p>
[SET]
name: Substitute + Paralysis
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Body Slam / Thunder Wave
move 3: Iron Head
move 4: Fire Punch
nature: Jolly
item: Leftovers
evs: 80 HP / 252 Atk / 176 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This set is a quite different, albeit expected, approach to Jirachi. While the defensive sets are used for pure support in Wish and a paralysis-inducing move, Jirachi can also spread paralysis at from a more offensive angle. With Substitute, Jirachi can ease prediction against a would-be threat and successfully paralyze it, proceeding to flinch it to death with Iron Head or forcing it to switch to another vulnerable Pokemon. The primary strategy is simple; Jirachi simply has to paralyze its switch-in, and either Substitute for prediction or switch to a counter. It can then come in again to paralyze more foes and set up behind a Substitute. One may modify this strategy depending on the battle conditions. Another strategy is to keep using Substitute until the opponent is fully paralyzed, though Jirachi is better off switching to another teammate for the purpose of safety and conservation.</p>
<p>As mentioned before, Jirachi is very unique in comparison to other support Pokemon due to its access to Serene Grace, increasing Body Slam's chance to paralyze to 60%. Serene Grace also boosts Iron Head's chance to flinch to 60%. With Iron Head, the opposing Pokemon is forced to attack only 30% of the time with a 100% accurate move. This leaves Jirachi with plenty of time to recover with Leftovers, switch to a counter or set up Substitutes. With this in mind, Jirachi can be used in the long run and possibly sweep once its checks and counters have been eliminated. Jirachi is given Fire Punch in the last slot to dent any Steel-types attempting to wall Iron Head, especially Ferrothorn who cannot break your Substitute.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The main EV spread allows Jirachi to outpace positive-natured base 90 Pokemon with base 100 Speed, so it isn't too reliant on paralysis. The Attack investment maximizes Jirachi's offensive power, and the rest is put into HP for a steady amount of bulk. Since this set is dedicated towards paralyzing as many Pokemon as it can, Jirachi can opt for alternative EV spreads. Maximum Speed is generally not necessary, and Jirachi can invest in bulk as well, so a spread of 252 HP / 224 Atk / 32 Spe with an Adamant nature works fairly well. With 252 HP EVs, Seismic Toss users, like such as Dusclops and Blissey, cannot break Jirachi's Substitute and will be forced to retreat or take multiple Iron Heads. 224 Attack EVs give Jirachi a fair amount of offense, while 32 Speed EVs allow Jirachi to outspeed Jolly Tyranitar.</p>
<p>Also up to the user's preference is the decision between Body Slam and Thunder Wave. As explained before, Body Slam is what sets Jirachi apart from other support Pokemon, most of whom have access to Thunder Wave. However, if one finds the 60% chance of paralysis life-gambling, Thunder Wave is a perfectly acceptable alternative for reliability in general. Obviously, Thunder Wave cannot hit Ground-types like such as Garchomp and Excadrill for paralysis, so choose whatever fits the team's needs. Drain Punch can be put in place of Fire Punch for a few reasons; it can still super effectively hit Steel-types while being similar to Fire Punch in terms of damage output. It can also hit Heatran, one of Jirachi's usual counters, for super effective damage. Drain Punch's side effect also gives Jirachi the ability to restore health. With Drain Punch, however, Jirachi loses coverage specifically against Scizor. As a special note, Secret Power can be a viable alternative to Body Slam if one finds it difficult to obtain Body Slam on a cartridge.</p>
<p>While this set is extremely difficult for other players to work around, it definitely has some hard counters. For this Jirachi to be effective, Skarmory, Hippowdon, Poison Heal Gliscor, Heatran, Empoleon, Tentacruel, Chandelure, and Rotom-W all must be eliminated. In fact, physical walls, Water-, and Fire-type Pokemon in general make good checks to take Iron Head and Fire Punch, though most of them are crippled by paralysis. Again, a levitating Dragon-type works perfectly well with this Jirachi. Latias and Latios can set up Calm Minds in front of most of Jirachi's counters, while Dragonite and Salamence can break walls more easily with the paralysis support Jirachi provides. As a special mention, Togekiss also appreciates paralysis support, and can use a strategy of "paraflinching" alongside Jirachi. Defensively, it is immune to Jirachi's Ground-type weakness, while Jirachi resists the Rock- and Ice-type weaknesses of Togekiss, and Togekiss can sweep more easily with any of its more offensive sets. On a dedicated paralysis team, Thundurus and Whimsicott are generally the best secondary paralysis-inducers because of their Prankster ability. Whimsicott in particular saves Jirachi from being decimated by Excadrill while being able to paralyze all types with Stun Spore.</p>
[Other Options]
<p>Jirachi has a surplus of interesting options to play with, though its more effective strategies have been listed. Drain Punch is an odd option to heal off damage and super effectively hit Steel-types. It should be noted that Drain Punch has been increased to 75 Base Power in the generation shift, so it is now competitively viable in Jirachi's physically-based sets. Energy Ball is an option for special sets; though Grass Knot is more useful as it hits Jirachi’s counters for more damage, as most of them are heavy.</p>
<p>With Drizzle support from Politoed, Jirachi can opt to run Thunder instead of Thunderbolt for the higher Base Power and higher chance to paralyze opponents. With Serene Grace factored in, most opponents switching into Jirachi must be aware of a high chance of paralysis. Also with Drizzle support, Jirachi has its Fire-type weakness halved, and can also run Water Pulse. Factoring in rain, Water Pulse technically has a 90 base power, and with Serene Grace, it has a high chance of inducing confusion, making it an option worth considering for coverage. If you are opting to run Politoed on a team, keep in mind that Jirachi benefits from it marvelously.</p>
<p>Last generation, Jirachi could lure counters and checks and eliminate them by using a mixed set. This mixed set in particular used Iron Head, two elemental punches, and a special move, along with a Naive nature, an Expert Belt, and maximum Speed and Attack. This set could be used to lure and defeat specific threats in the metagame, but is generally weak against the opponent once the special move has been revealed. On this note, Jirachi may choose to utilize a mixed Superachi set as well. With a Naive nature, 120 Attack EVs, Life Orb, and Iron Head, Jirachi knocks many counters into the KO range for its special moves. It does not have as much longevity as the original Calm Mind sets due to Life Orb, but it is still an option for surprise. These sets can be used to great value if used with Shell Break Baton Pass Gorebyss, which instantly boosts all of Jirachi's offensive stats, and makes the always-annoying Iron Head even stronger.</p>
<p>Jirachi is also abundant in the support department. With Cosmic Power, Jirachi can run a purely defensive set with Wish and Toxic as compliments. Keep in mind that Jirachi is in danger of vulnerable to Steel-types and Taunt users if Cosmic Power is considered. Jirachi also has access to dual screens, which is perfectly acceptable with U-turn and Jirachi's good defensive typing. Safeguard prevents status, but it is better off left to a dedicated user of stall or defense. Magic Coat is an odd support option that allows Jirachi to bypass attempts to set up hazards or cripple Jirachi with status moves. For field moves, Jirachi also has Gravity and Trick Room. Whereas Trick Room is decent with Jirachi's Wish and U-turn, Gravity is generally considered a negligible gimmick. Stealth Rock may be used on any of Jirachi's support sets, but Jirachi generally cannot risk moveslot syndrome.</p>
[Checks and Counters]
<p>By virtue of its near-limitless diversity, it is extremely difficult to find a "hard counter" to Jirachi. Due to the unpredictable nature of Jirachi and the potency of all its sets, prediction is normally the first step to defeating it. Arguably, Jirachi's specially-based sets are the most difficult to challenge. While Substitute + Calm Mind makes many weak attackers and Seismic Toss-reliant Pokemon struggle, its more offensive special sets can put a large dent in any team immediately. Counters to these sets differ depending on the combination of moves Jirachi chooses. If Jirachi isn't using Psyshock or the Substitute + Calm Mind set, Blissey and Chansey sponge its special attacks all day. If Skarmory is at full health, it can phaze out Jirachi and survive a Thunderbolt thanks to Sturdy. If Whimsicott catches Jirachi using a support move, Grass Knot, or Thunderbolt, it can use Prankster Encore to lock Jirachi into that move and drain its health with Leech Seed. Additionally, Krookodile, though pretty rare in OU, is immune to the combination of Psychic + Thunderbolt. Speaking of Ground-types, Excadrill and Landorus, two common sweepers on a sandstorm team, can switch into a predicted Thunderbolt, Psychic, or Thunder Wave, and easily OHKO with Earthquake. Finally, Latias and Latios both resist Jirachi's most common special attacking moves and set up Calm Minds alongside it, using Roar to remove its boosts if possible.</p>
<p>Physically based sets are slightly easier to check. Due to Serene Grace and Iron Head's high chance to flinch, however, any Pokemon that is paralyzed or is slower than Jirachi risks being flinched to death. Rotom-W, Rotom-H, Heatran, and Empoleon are all 4x resistant to Iron Head, and can take most of Jirachi's other attacks comfortably as well. Bulky Water-types also take minimal damage from Iron Head, and most of them can take a ThunderPunch and heal it off. Most physically defensive Steel-types (such as Skarmory) and Ground-types (Hippowdon) also do a good job of sponging physical Jirachi's attacks, though they risk a burn from Fire Punch should Jirachi run it. Ferrothorn can wall any set that lacks Fire Punch, and can either set up Spikes or use Leech Seed. Ferrothorn also has the benefit of chipping Jirachi's health away with Iron Barbs. Faster Pokemon risk being paralyzed; however, opponents such as Garchomp, Landorus, and Excadrill can all come in comfortably on Thunder Wave and OHKO with a super-effective (remove hyphen) move.</p>
<p>Despite its versatility, Jirachi does have some very general checks and counters. Heatran can come in on practically any set lacking Hidden Power Ground, and immediately threaten Jirachi with a STAB Fire Blast. Heatran also doesn't mind paralysis too much. Volcarona can also threaten any Jirachi set, as it takes little damage from Jirachi’s common attacks, and it can threaten Jirachi with a STAB Fire-type attack. Volcarona does dislike paralysis however, so be sure to scout the set before attempting to check Jirachi. Magnezone, particularly, is a very special counter as it can trap Jirachi in the battlefield using its Magnet Pull ability and swiftly eliminate it with its choice of Thunderbolt or the correct Hidden Power. Most Jirachi sets (except for those running a good Hidden Power and Fire Punch) are rather unprepared for Magnezone. Like Heatran, Magnezone doesn't mind Thunder Wave too much. Therefore, unless Jirachi has built up enough Calm Minds or has a super effective move, Magnezone is forever a thorn in Jirachi's side.</p>
Excellent work.
GP 2 / 2
Deletions
Additions / Corrections
Comments
[OVERVIEW]
<p>If one were to choose a phrase that best describes Jirachi, this phrase would most likely be <i>Noblesse Oblige</i>, meaning that with great power and influence come great responsibilities. After repeatedly high usage during the last two generations, Jirachi remains one of the best Pokemon with a base stat total of 600, and for good reason. Its phenomenal typing and enormous movepool allow it to run a variety of sets that no other competitors can replicate fully. Jirachi’s stats also allow it to perform nearly any role with good insurance, and unlike other rivals such as Shaymin and Latias, all of its stats benefit it. Jirachi’s extremely useful ability, Serene Grace, is still as abusable as ever, paired with moves including but not limited to Iron Head, Body Slam, and Thunder. Jirachi’s list of options is certainly expandable, as it can perform many roles ranging from the classic Calm Mind set to standard physical sets to helpful support sets.</p>
<p>Jirachi’s plethora of options and possibilities are not the only things that benefit Jirachi it this generation. With the presence of classic and new threats in the land of the Overused such as Latios, Latias, Reuniclus, Ferrothorn, and Outrage users, Jirachi bravely stand up against many of them. Its Steel / Psychic typing grants Jirachi nigh eight resistances and a mere two weaknesses, allowing Jirachi to sponge many of the omnipresent Dragon-, Rock-, and Ice-type attacks of OU. On top of this, Jirachi’s typing also grants it easy access to the battlefield, being immune to both sandstorm and Toxic Spikes, making it hard to stall out. To put salt in the wounds, the Wish Pokemon, of course, has access to Wish, granting consistent, reliable healing for itself and its teammates. With all these traits in consideration, Jirachi can easily fit on and support any team with little issue.</p>
[SET]
name: Specially Defensive
move 1: Iron Head
move 2: Body Slam / Thunder Wave
move 3: Wish
move 4: Fire Punch / Protect / Stealth Rock
nature: Careful
item: Leftovers
evs: 252 HP / 224 SpD / 32 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This set utilizes Jirachi’s access to multiple support moves and good defensive typing, given Jirachi has just two weaknesses and a huge number of resistances, most importantly against Dragon-type moves. With investment in HP and Special Defense, Jirachi can cushion various special attacks with ease and while providing all-round support with paralysis and a 200 HP Wish. For example, Jirachi makes a perfectly viable switch-in to Timid Choice Specs Latios' Draco Meteor, losing only 31.4% - 37.1% of its health when hit. This means that Specially Defensive Jirachi can sponge nearly all neutral or resisted hit below this specific attack, one of the most threatening in OU. For a less mathematical example of Jirachi's Wish, a Pokemon with an uninvested base 80-90 HP stat (such as Latios, Thundurus, and Volcarona) will recover about two-thirds of its health, which is a considerable improvement in comparison to last generation.</p>
<p>Jirachi is unique when compared to other paralysis-inducers thanks to its ability, Serene Grace, Body Slam, and Iron Head. Body Slam is primary over Thunder Wave because, whereas a multitude of support Pokémon can abuse Thunder Wave, Jirachi can utilize Body Slam to paralyze threats that Thunder Wave cannot, mainly Ground-type Pokémon and faster Taunt users. Notably, Serene Grace doubles Body Slam’s chance to paralyze to a consistent 60%, allowing Jirachi to paralyze a threat most of the time, thanks to its great bulk. In any case, Thunder Wave is always an option over Body Slam for a guaranteed paralysis move. Keep in mind, however, that most support Pokémon have access to Thunder Wave, and Body Slam differentiates Jirachi from its competition. Another trait that Jirachi has over other support Pokemon is Iron Head; this move is complimentary with paralysis and Serene Grace as Jirachi can slowly chip away at an opponent, weakening it for another Pokemon to KO. Iron Head may also allow Jirachi a “free turn” for Wish healing, provided the opponent is flinched. However, this Jirachi should be used defensively at first, so Iron Head usage should be kept to a minimum because of the zero Attack investment.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The last slot is entirely up to the user. Fire Punch provides an efficient buffer against Scizor and Ferrothorn, both of which are significant defensive threats. Protect provides Jirachi with a way to scout for incoming attacks and allows Jirachi it to heal safely after using Wish. With Protect, Jirachi will not have to rely on Iron Head as much, but it cannot check Scizor or Ferrothorn. Jirachi can further support the team by utilizing Stealth Rock; if the team does not have other entry hazard users available, Jirachi can easily set up Stealth Rocks and still function without its other fourth moves. U-turn is also an option to pass Jirachi’s Wishes safely to another teammate; with Jirachi’s relatively slow Speed without investment and good bulk, it is nearly guaranteed to heal another teammate successfully without the recipient taking damage.</p>
<p>The given EVs allow maximum special bulk while outrunning Jolly Tyranitar. Significant Speed investment is not necessary due to Body Slam or Thunder Wave. Alternatively, one may opt for a more physically defensive spread of 240 HP / 160 Def / 76 SpD / 32 Spe with an Impish nature. This spread allows Jirachi to better take physical attacks while maintaining a reasonable amount of special bulk. It is a perfectly viable alternative over the main spread, depending on the team's needs. Furthermore, Jirachi may opt to invest in 64 Speed EVs in order to outrun maximum Speed Jolly Scizor, a rising occurrence in the metagame.</p>
<p>Jirachi provides support in the form of Wish and a paralysis-inducing move, allowing slower, but powerful, teammates to thrive. Defensively-speaking (remove hyphen), a levitating Dragon-type is a perfect team member to receive Jirachi's support; Latios, Latias, Dragonite, Salamence, and Hydreigon are all immune or resistant to Jirachi's weaknesses. Being the powerhouses they are, they can put a dent in the opposing team while being kept alive by Wish. Gyarados, while not a Dragon-type, operates similarly to them and can provide an offensive and / or defensive approach to the team with Dragon Dance, Dragon Tail, and Intimidate. Jirachi, in return, can easily take the Dragon-, Ice-, and Rock-type moves aimed at all of them and repeat the support process.</p>
[SET]
name: SubCM
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Calm Mind
move 3: Thunderbolt
move 4: Flash Cannon / Psychic / Psyshock
nature: Timid
item: Leftovers
evs: 252 HP / 4 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Being Jirachi’s flagship set in the previous generations, Substitute paired with Calm Mind is still a viable strategy on Jirachi due to the ability to break apart bulky and stall-oriented teams. With good defensive typing and maximum HP investment, Jirachi can set up on multiple Pokemon in OU and proceed to sweep after a few boosts. Unlike other Calm Mind boosters, Jirachi has convenient immunities to passive damage, namely Toxic Spikes and sandstorm. The magic of this set is that it easily forces defensive Pokemon, like such as Celebi, Blissey, Chansey, Jellicent, opposing Jirachi, and Porygon2, to struggle while it sets up, making a sweep even easier. The strategy is fairly simple; Jirachi should come in on a resisted attack or support move, and then use Substitute to identify the opponent’s response to it. From there, Jirachi has a few options: set up Calm Mind as the opponent switches to an attacker or initial check, or immediately hit-and-run if the counter is a significant threat.</p>
<p>Substitute and Calm Mind are obviously the integral parts of the set. Whereas Substitute blocks status and scouts for counters and checks, Calm Mind allows Jirachi to be more of a threat, offensively and defensively. For its attacking moves, Thunderbolt is necessary to achieve general coverage. Flash Cannon is the primary STAB option to ensure overall coverage. Flash Cannon notably allows Jirachi to 2HKO Tyranitar, who can otherwise wall it if Jirachi has not conjured many boosts. Psychic can be a better answer to some other significant OU threats, such as Conkeldurr, Venusaur, and some Fire-type Pokemon. Alternatively, Psyshock gives Jirachi more momentum against physically-weak Pokemon and opposing Calm Mind users, especially Reuniclus and Latias. However, with Substitute and Flash Cannon or Psychic, Jirachi already defeats Chansey and Blissey, the two premier special walls. Choose which STAB move acts in the team's favor most.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>Maximum EV investment in HP is very necessary on this set to boost Jirachi's already great bulk and give it time to Calm Mind. With maximum HP, Jirachi can utilize 101 HP Substitutes, which Seismic Toss users, such as Dusclops and Blissey, cannot break with one Seismic Toss. In addition, maximum Speed investment with a Timid nature allows Jirachi to tie with positive-natured base 100 Pokemon with base 100 Speed, ensuring it will not be revenge killed easily. The Speed investment, however, is not necessary; Jirachi can be modified to outrun a certain Speed tier, putting the leftover EVs into Defense or Special Attack. Investing in Defense means that Jirachi can prepare for its sweep in front of weaker physical attacks.</p>
<p>Because Jirachi has to rely on multiple boosts and two attacks to be significantly threatening, it will run into several notable obstacles. Against offensive teams in general, faster Pokemon with a Fire- or Ground-type move prevent Jirachi from obtaining too many Calm Mind boosts. Celebi, Execcutor, Latias, Latios, and Krookodile completely wall Jirachi if it chooses to forgo Flash Cannon for Psychic. If Jirachi chooses Flash Cannon, Lanturn, Rotom-W, Swampert, Quagsire, and Magnezone wall Jirachi as well, though with enough Calm Minds, Jirachi can casually overcome these threats until its Substitute is unbreakable. Unaware Quagsire is a rather interesting counter, as it nullifies any boosts Jirachi has executed in the battle and handles Jirachi's unboosted Psychic and Flash Cannon with sick ease. Excadrill walls just about any combination of moves Jirachi chooses. Phazing is also a very serious problem when trying to set up; while Latias and Nidoqueen can force Jirachi out with Roar, Skarmory can survive one Thunderbolt at full health, thanks to Sturdy, and successfully use Whirlwind. Without enough Calm Mind boosts, Jirachi cannot deal enough damage to Scizor with Thunderbolt before Scizor can break its Substitute with U-turn and switch to a counter, putting Jirachi in an awkward position. Finally, faster Encore and Taunt users pose an annoyance to Jirachi if it is caught using Substitute or Calm Mind. Jirachi especially must look out for Whimsicott, as Whimsicott can easily use Prankster Encore, Taunt, and Substitute to completely nullify Jirachi's efforts.</p>
<p>In order for Jirachi to function effectively, it must have adequate support. Unlike Jirachi’s other sets, it certainly can be paired with more defensive, stall-based teammates. Stealth Rock is essential to negate Skarmory’s Sturdy effect and prevent it from phasing Jirachi and its boosts away. Entry hazard support in general is beneficial so Jirachi can force special attackers out and shuffle the opposing team to score random KOes. Ironically, Skarmory is one of the best hazard layers to pair with Jirachi, as it counters many significant Ground-types and can heal off damage easily with Roost while laying down both Spikes and Stealth Rock. As an added benefit, Skarmory can abuse its Sturdy ability and use Whirlwind to phaze out troublesome threats. Keep in mind that both Jirachi and Skarmory must play around their Fire-type weakness. Deoxys-D can also set up both aforementioned entry hazards with ease, and while it does not particularly compliment Jirachi defensively, it brushes off numerous attacks heartily and heals off damage. Toxic Spikes support, while a tad unnecessary in comparison to Spikes and Stealth Rock, support allows Jirachi to stall out many threats as it sets up and sweeps, chipping the enemy’s health to KO range.</p>
<p>Jirachi also requires some offensive teammates to bring down its counters. Any levitating Dragon-type can easily absorb Jirachi’s two weaknesses and start a scuffle with powerful attacks. Dragonite, Salamence, Hydreigon, and Latios are all but just a few of many capable wallbreaking Dragon-types that can pave the way for Jirachi’s sweep and their own. With at least one Fire-type move and a Dragon-type STAB, these Dragon-types easily eliminate Jirachi’s counters. Bulky Dragon Dance Gyarados with at least one boost can defeat most of Jirachi’s problem opponents as well. If Jirachi finds that dealing with weather teams is a problem, Drizzle Politoed is most certainly an instant solution. With a Choice Scarf attached, Politoed is able to revenge kill many weather-reliant threats while changing the weather to stormy skies. With weather in mind, eliminating Excadrill is an extreme priority, since it walls Jirachi no matter which two moves it chooses. Whimsicott can unfortunately only be dealt with by battering it until it faints. Other than some specific counters such as Magic Guard and Magic Bounce users, you must assault and outsmart Whimsicott to kill it.</p>
[SET]
name: Superachi! (Offensive Calm Mind)
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Psychic / Psyshock
move 3: Grass Knot / Thunderbolt
move 4: Hidden Power Fire
nature: Timid
item: Leftovers
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Although Jirachi is mostly designed to set up in front of defensively-oriented Pokemon, Superachi is quite the contrary. With an acute emphasis on the offensive side of the spectrum, Jirachi can now serve as both a sizeable sweeper and a lure to most its usual checks and counters. Tyranitar, Scizor, Ferrothorn, Quagsire, and Swampert are destroyed with a super effective move, exterminating them all after just one Calm Mind. This gives Jirachi more opportunities to wreak havoc upon the rest of the opposing team. A transition from defense to offense is also safe due to Jirachi’s still-reliable bulk, despite the different investment and strategy.</p>
<p>The set is nothing complicated; Calm Mind is the main move on this set and is complimented by three coverage moves. Jirachi can choose between Psychic and Psyshock as its main STAB. Again, while Psychic-type attacks does not have outstanding coverage alone, with the other moves, these attacks can be especially effective. While Psychic takes immediate advantage of specially-weak threats such as Gliscor, Psyshock is a great alternative due to the ability to eliminate threats that are weaker on the physical side. Jirachi cannot set up on Blissey and other walls as easily, so Psyshock provides a way to dispose of them as soon as possible. Grass Knot accommodates Psychic and Psyshock by immediately disposing of the multiple Water- and Ground-types found in OU; especially Quagsire who would otherwise ignore Jirachi’s Calm Mind boosts with Unaware. Thunderbolt is an acceptable alternative to more reliably counter Skarmory and Vaporeon, though Tyranitar becomes more of a threat without Grass Knot. Finally, Hidden Power Fire completes the set’s coverage by removing Scizor, Ferrothorn, Forretress, and some Grass-types from play promptly. Hidden Power Fire also provides an alternate way of scratching Skarmory without the need for Thunderbolt.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>Like the moveset itself, the EVs are also pretty much straightforward. Here, Jirachi fully invests in Special Attack in order to assault with more zest. With a Timid nature, a Speed IV of 30, and maximum investment in Speed, Jirachi outruns Hydreigon and lower, while managing a Speed tie with positive-natured base 100s also using an imperfect Speed IV. Hidden Power Ice is worthy of mention to take out most Dragon-types and Gliscor in one hit, while keeping Jirachi’s Speed perfect (Hidden Power Fire forces Jirachi to use a 30 Speed IV). However, with its main options, Jirachi can already hurt Gliscor and the Dragon-types with preceding damage, and some targets of Hidden Power Ice, such as Garchomp and Landorus, already outrun and defeat Jirachi.</p>
<p>Like similar offensive sets, Superachi has problems of its own, though it can easily lure in and eliminate its original checks and counters. Heatran makes a pessimistic counter to Jirachi due to a neutrality to Thunderbolt and an immunity or resistance to the rest of Jirachi’s moves. With powerful STAB Fire-type moves, Heatran puts Jirachi in a corner. If Jirachi chooses to forgo Psyshock for Psychic, Blissey and Chansey wall it eternally. Vice-versa, Gliscor and some physical walls make decent pivots against Psyshock, though a boosted Grass Knot or Hidden Power should easily take care of them with prior damage. As usual, Latias and Latios still make creditable counters to Calm Mind Jirachi due to Jirachi's lack of coverage against the both of them. With Calm Mind (and sometimes Roar), they can still set up alongside Jirachi, though it can usually win Calm Mind wars with Psyshock and its resistances to Dragon- and Psychic-type moves.</p>
<p>With any offensive Jirachi, entry hazards are at least helpful in obtaining some OHKOs Jirachi would not otherwise get. For example, with Stealth Rock on the field, Jirachi handily defeats Zapdos, Gyarados, and Chandelure with a boosted Psychic or Psyshock. A bulky Water-type, such as Suicune or Gyarados, ensures that Jirachi’s counters in Fire- and Ground-type foes are kept at bay with high health. As usual, levitating Dragon-types resist Jirachi’s two weaknesses as well as upholding a good offensive presence against the opposing team. These Dragon-types also beat most bulky or fast Fire- and Ground- type Pokemon with resistances and a powerful attack. Strong Pursuit users, such as Scizor, Tyranitar, and Bisharp handle Blissey, Chansey, Latias, and Latios fairly well. Since Superachi handily lures in and defeats most of its counters, teammates who originally had problems with these Pokemon make fine teammates as well. Kingdra, Tyranitar, Gyarados, Reuniclus, Dragonite, and many others appreciate the removal of their respective counters while offering their own offensive support.</p>
[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Iron Head
move 2: Ice Punch
move 3: Fire Punch
move 4: Trick / U-Turn / Thunderpunch
nature: Jolly
item: Choice Scarf
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>The last generation provided Jirachi two brand-new dangerous weapons that significantly broke its label as only a special attacker: Choice Scarf and Iron Head. With a Choice Scarf equipped, Jirachi gains the ability to revenge kill the majority of faster threats in OU, including but not limited to Latios, Latias, Tornadus, Thundurus, Weavile, most Dragon Dance users, and Shell Break users. Jirachi's resistances also help utilize this set to its fullest, as it can brush off many priority moves and come in on numerous attacks. However, one would be misguided as to treat this Jirachi as a sweeper or a significant offensive threat. Rather, consider Choice Scarf Jirachi more of a “supporting attacker"; it does not have the immediate power to pose as a noteworthy physical sweeper.</p>
<p>Unlike other users of Choice Scarf, Jirachi makes great use of its unique ability, Serene Grace, with STAB Iron Head and its increased chance to continually flinch foes, sometimes even to the point of fainting. Fortunately, this alone makes up for Jirachi's just decent Attack stat. Along with Iron Head, Jirachi also has complimentary coverage options in Ice Punch and Fire Punch, accompanied by the user’s choice in the fourth slot. Fire Punch dents most foes that attempt to sponge Iron Head, such as Scizor and Ferrothorn, while Ice Punch eliminates most Dragon- and Flying-types, most notably Landuros, Dragonite, and Garchomp.</p>
<p>Trick allows Jirachi to cripple a would-be counter or defensive wall, while U-turn allows Jirachi to switch out of its counters, which is helpful with some entry hazards on the field. Finally, ThunderPunch is optional to smack Gyarados and Jellicent, but has little uses outside of that this generation. Alternatively, Thunderbolt can be used over ThunderPunch to more reliably check Gyarados and Skarmory, provided Jirachi uses a Hasty or Naive nature. However, like ThunderPunch, Thunderbolt is rather specific, and will be rather weak with zero Special Attack investment. Use Trick with consideration, as Jirachi will turn into a less effective attacker without Choice Scarf or an attack-boosting item.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>As far as counters go, the number of Pokemon that can set up on a single move is unfortunately numerous. Since Choice Scarf Jirachi operates as a supporting attacker rather than a major offensive force, not much support will actually be necessary. Teammates who can reliably counter Heatran, Ferrothorn, Scizor, Skarmory, Excadrill, and some Rotom Appliances formes are appreciated. A strategy is to switch Jirachi out of something that forces it out, and switch in again to revenge kill the foe. Jirachi also appreciates a teammate who can fight against physical walls without difficulty. Entry hazards are fairly efficient with this Jirachi, since it will be switching out often. For a quick way to set up hazards, Deoxys-S is usually the best to lay at least one layer of Spikes or Stealth Rock, while an attacking Infernape or Azelf provides both offensive and Stealth Rock support.</p>
[SET]
name: Substitute + Paralysis
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Body Slam / Thunder Wave
move 3: Iron Head
move 4: Fire Punch
nature: Jolly
item: Leftovers
evs: 80 HP / 252 Atk / 176 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This set is a quite different, albeit expected, approach to Jirachi. While the defensive sets are used for pure support in Wish and a paralysis-inducing move, Jirachi can also spread paralysis at from a more offensive angle. With Substitute, Jirachi can ease prediction against a would-be threat and successfully paralyze it, proceeding to flinch it to death with Iron Head or forcing it to switch to another vulnerable Pokemon. The primary strategy is simple; Jirachi simply has to paralyze its switch-in, and either Substitute for prediction or switch to a counter. It can then come in again to paralyze more foes and set up behind a Substitute. One may modify this strategy depending on the battle conditions. Another strategy is to keep using Substitute until the opponent is fully paralyzed, though Jirachi is better off switching to another teammate for the purpose of safety and conservation.</p>
<p>As mentioned before, Jirachi is very unique in comparison to other support Pokemon due to its access to Serene Grace, increasing Body Slam's chance to paralyze to 60%. Serene Grace also boosts Iron Head's chance to flinch to 60%. With Iron Head, the opposing Pokemon is forced to attack only 30% of the time with a 100% accurate move. This leaves Jirachi with plenty of time to recover with Leftovers, switch to a counter or set up Substitutes. With this in mind, Jirachi can be used in the long run and possibly sweep once its checks and counters have been eliminated. Jirachi is given Fire Punch in the last slot to dent any Steel-types attempting to wall Iron Head, especially Ferrothorn who cannot break your Substitute.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The main EV spread allows Jirachi to outpace positive-natured base 90 Pokemon with base 100 Speed, so it isn't too reliant on paralysis. The Attack investment maximizes Jirachi's offensive power, and the rest is put into HP for a steady amount of bulk. Since this set is dedicated towards paralyzing as many Pokemon as it can, Jirachi can opt for alternative EV spreads. Maximum Speed is generally not necessary, and Jirachi can invest in bulk as well, so a spread of 252 HP / 224 Atk / 32 Spe with an Adamant nature works fairly well. With 252 HP EVs, Seismic Toss users, like such as Dusclops and Blissey, cannot break Jirachi's Substitute and will be forced to retreat or take multiple Iron Heads. 224 Attack EVs give Jirachi a fair amount of offense, while 32 Speed EVs allow Jirachi to outspeed Jolly Tyranitar.</p>
<p>Also up to the user's preference is the decision between Body Slam and Thunder Wave. As explained before, Body Slam is what sets Jirachi apart from other support Pokemon, most of whom have access to Thunder Wave. However, if one finds the 60% chance of paralysis life-gambling, Thunder Wave is a perfectly acceptable alternative for reliability in general. Obviously, Thunder Wave cannot hit Ground-types like such as Garchomp and Excadrill for paralysis, so choose whatever fits the team's needs. Drain Punch can be put in place of Fire Punch for a few reasons; it can still super effectively hit Steel-types while being similar to Fire Punch in terms of damage output. It can also hit Heatran, one of Jirachi's usual counters, for super effective damage. Drain Punch's side effect also gives Jirachi the ability to restore health. With Drain Punch, however, Jirachi loses coverage specifically against Scizor. As a special note, Secret Power can be a viable alternative to Body Slam if one finds it difficult to obtain Body Slam on a cartridge.</p>
<p>While this set is extremely difficult for other players to work around, it definitely has some hard counters. For this Jirachi to be effective, Skarmory, Hippowdon, Poison Heal Gliscor, Heatran, Empoleon, Tentacruel, Chandelure, and Rotom-W all must be eliminated. In fact, physical walls, Water-, and Fire-type Pokemon in general make good checks to take Iron Head and Fire Punch, though most of them are crippled by paralysis. Again, a levitating Dragon-type works perfectly well with this Jirachi. Latias and Latios can set up Calm Minds in front of most of Jirachi's counters, while Dragonite and Salamence can break walls more easily with the paralysis support Jirachi provides. As a special mention, Togekiss also appreciates paralysis support, and can use a strategy of "paraflinching" alongside Jirachi. Defensively, it is immune to Jirachi's Ground-type weakness, while Jirachi resists the Rock- and Ice-type weaknesses of Togekiss, and Togekiss can sweep more easily with any of its more offensive sets. On a dedicated paralysis team, Thundurus and Whimsicott are generally the best secondary paralysis-inducers because of their Prankster ability. Whimsicott in particular saves Jirachi from being decimated by Excadrill while being able to paralyze all types with Stun Spore.</p>
[Other Options]
<p>Jirachi has a surplus of interesting options to play with, though its more effective strategies have been listed. Drain Punch is an odd option to heal off damage and super effectively hit Steel-types. It should be noted that Drain Punch has been increased to 75 Base Power in the generation shift, so it is now competitively viable in Jirachi's physically-based sets. Energy Ball is an option for special sets; though Grass Knot is more useful as it hits Jirachi’s counters for more damage, as most of them are heavy.</p>
<p>With Drizzle support from Politoed, Jirachi can opt to run Thunder instead of Thunderbolt for the higher Base Power and higher chance to paralyze opponents. With Serene Grace factored in, most opponents switching into Jirachi must be aware of a high chance of paralysis. Also with Drizzle support, Jirachi has its Fire-type weakness halved, and can also run Water Pulse. Factoring in rain, Water Pulse technically has a 90 base power, and with Serene Grace, it has a high chance of inducing confusion, making it an option worth considering for coverage. If you are opting to run Politoed on a team, keep in mind that Jirachi benefits from it marvelously.</p>
<p>Last generation, Jirachi could lure counters and checks and eliminate them by using a mixed set. This mixed set in particular used Iron Head, two elemental punches, and a special move, along with a Naive nature, an Expert Belt, and maximum Speed and Attack. This set could be used to lure and defeat specific threats in the metagame, but is generally weak against the opponent once the special move has been revealed. On this note, Jirachi may choose to utilize a mixed Superachi set as well. With a Naive nature, 120 Attack EVs, Life Orb, and Iron Head, Jirachi knocks many counters into the KO range for its special moves. It does not have as much longevity as the original Calm Mind sets due to Life Orb, but it is still an option for surprise. These sets can be used to great value if used with Shell Break Baton Pass Gorebyss, which instantly boosts all of Jirachi's offensive stats, and makes the always-annoying Iron Head even stronger.</p>
<p>Jirachi is also abundant in the support department. With Cosmic Power, Jirachi can run a purely defensive set with Wish and Toxic as compliments. Keep in mind that Jirachi is in danger of vulnerable to Steel-types and Taunt users if Cosmic Power is considered. Jirachi also has access to dual screens, which is perfectly acceptable with U-turn and Jirachi's good defensive typing. Safeguard prevents status, but it is better off left to a dedicated user of stall or defense. Magic Coat is an odd support option that allows Jirachi to bypass attempts to set up hazards or cripple Jirachi with status moves. For field moves, Jirachi also has Gravity and Trick Room. Whereas Trick Room is decent with Jirachi's Wish and U-turn, Gravity is generally considered a negligible gimmick. Stealth Rock may be used on any of Jirachi's support sets, but Jirachi generally cannot risk moveslot syndrome.</p>
[Checks and Counters]
<p>By virtue of its near-limitless diversity, it is extremely difficult to find a "hard counter" to Jirachi. Due to the unpredictable nature of Jirachi and the potency of all its sets, prediction is normally the first step to defeating it. Arguably, Jirachi's specially-based sets are the most difficult to challenge. While Substitute + Calm Mind makes many weak attackers and Seismic Toss-reliant Pokemon struggle, its more offensive special sets can put a large dent in any team immediately. Counters to these sets differ depending on the combination of moves Jirachi chooses. If Jirachi isn't using Psyshock or the Substitute + Calm Mind set, Blissey and Chansey sponge its special attacks all day. If Skarmory is at full health, it can phaze out Jirachi and survive a Thunderbolt thanks to Sturdy. If Whimsicott catches Jirachi using a support move, Grass Knot, or Thunderbolt, it can use Prankster Encore to lock Jirachi into that move and drain its health with Leech Seed. Additionally, Krookodile, though pretty rare in OU, is immune to the combination of Psychic + Thunderbolt. Speaking of Ground-types, Excadrill and Landorus, two common sweepers on a sandstorm team, can switch into a predicted Thunderbolt, Psychic, or Thunder Wave, and easily OHKO with Earthquake. Finally, Latias and Latios both resist Jirachi's most common special attacking moves and set up Calm Minds alongside it, using Roar to remove its boosts if possible.</p>
<p>Physically based sets are slightly easier to check. Due to Serene Grace and Iron Head's high chance to flinch, however, any Pokemon that is paralyzed or is slower than Jirachi risks being flinched to death. Rotom-W, Rotom-H, Heatran, and Empoleon are all 4x resistant to Iron Head, and can take most of Jirachi's other attacks comfortably as well. Bulky Water-types also take minimal damage from Iron Head, and most of them can take a ThunderPunch and heal it off. Most physically defensive Steel-types (such as Skarmory) and Ground-types (Hippowdon) also do a good job of sponging physical Jirachi's attacks, though they risk a burn from Fire Punch should Jirachi run it. Ferrothorn can wall any set that lacks Fire Punch, and can either set up Spikes or use Leech Seed. Ferrothorn also has the benefit of chipping Jirachi's health away with Iron Barbs. Faster Pokemon risk being paralyzed; however, opponents such as Garchomp, Landorus, and Excadrill can all come in comfortably on Thunder Wave and OHKO with a super-effective (remove hyphen) move.</p>
<p>Despite its versatility, Jirachi does have some very general checks and counters. Heatran can come in on practically any set lacking Hidden Power Ground, and immediately threaten Jirachi with a STAB Fire Blast. Heatran also doesn't mind paralysis too much. Volcarona can also threaten any Jirachi set, as it takes little damage from Jirachi’s common attacks, and it can threaten Jirachi with a STAB Fire-type attack. Volcarona does dislike paralysis however, so be sure to scout the set before attempting to check Jirachi. Magnezone, particularly, is a very special counter as it can trap Jirachi in the battlefield using its Magnet Pull ability and swiftly eliminate it with its choice of Thunderbolt or the correct Hidden Power. Most Jirachi sets (except for those running a good Hidden Power and Fire Punch) are rather unprepared for Magnezone. Like Heatran, Magnezone doesn't mind Thunder Wave too much. Therefore, unless Jirachi has built up enough Calm Minds or has a super effective move, Magnezone is forever a thorn in Jirachi's side.</p>
Excellent work.
GP 2 / 2
Thank you for the check, stamp, and compliments! One thing though: the part where Jirachi outspeeds positive base 100 Pokemon with its normal SubParalysis EVs isn't true, so I left that.
Anyways, we can consider this officially (Done), minus minor changes.
All right, I went over this analysis and I found that there were still several errors. Doing this in a new post instead of my previous one for clarity's sake.
Deletions
Additions / Corrections
Fixed some strange prose and grammatical errors I missed out on the first time around. Ensure that you make all the changes; there are many.
Deletions
Additions / Corrections
[OVERVIEW]
<p>If one were to choose a phrase that best describes Jirachi, this phrase would most likely be <i>Noblesse Oblige</i>, meaning that with great power and influence come great responsibilities. After repeatedly high usage during the last two generations, Jirachi remains one of the best Pokemon with a base stat total of 600, and for good reason. Its phenomenal typing and enormous movepool allow it to run a variety of sets that no other competitors can replicate fully. Jirachi’s stats also allow it to perform nearly any role with good insurance with ease, and unlike other rivals such as Shaymin and Latias, all of its stats benefit it. Jirachi’s extremely useful ability, Serene Grace, is still as abusable as ever, paired with moves including but not limited to Iron Head, Body Slam, and Thunder. Jirachi’s list of options is certainly expandable, as it can perform many roles ranging from the classic Calm Mind set to standard physical sets to helpful support sets.</p>
<p>Jirachi’s plethora of options and possibilities are not the only things that benefit it this generation. With the presence of classic and new threats in the land of the Overused, such as Latios, Latias, Reuniclus, Ferrothorn, and Outrage users, Jirachi bravely stand up against many of them. Its Steel / Psychic typing grants Jirachi nigh eight resistances and a mere two weaknesses, allowing Jirachi to sponge many of the omnipresent Dragon-, Rock-, and Ice-type attacks of OU. On top of this, Jirachi’s typing also grants it easy access to the battlefield, being immune to both sandstorm and Toxic Spikes, making it hard to stall out. To put salt in the opponent's wounds, The Wish Pokemon, of course, also has access to Wish, granting consistent, reliable healing for itself and its teammates. With all these traits in consideration, Jirachi can easily fit on and support any team with little issue.</p>
[SET]
name: Specially Defensive
move 1: Iron Head
move 2: Body Slam / Thunder Wave
move 3: Wish
move 4: Fire Punch / Protect / Stealth Rock
nature: Careful
item: Leftovers
evs: 252 HP / 224 SpD / 32 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This set utilizes Jirachi’s access to multiple support moves and good defensive typing, given Jirachi has just two weaknesses and a huge number of resistances, most importantly against Dragon-type moves. With investment in HP and Special Defense, Jirachi can cushion various special attacks with ease and while providing all-round support with paralysis and a 200 HP Wish. For example, Jirachi makes a perfectly viable switch-in to Timid Choice Specs Latios' Draco Meteor, losing only 31.4% - 37.1% of its health when hit. This means that Specially Defensive Jirachi can sponge nearly all neutral or resisted hits below this specific attack, one of the most threatening in OU. For a less mathematical example of Jirachi's Wish, a Pokemon with an uninvested base 80-90 HP stat (such as Latios, Thundurus, and Volcarona) will recover about two-thirds of its health, which is a considerable improvement in comparison to last generation.</p>
<p>Jirachi is unique when compared to other paralysis-inducers thanks to its ability, Serene Grace, Body Slam, and Iron Head. Body Slam is primary over Thunder Wave When it comes to the paralysis-inducing move, Body Slam is the primary option, because, whereas a multitude of support Pokémon can abuse Thunder Wave, Jirachi can utilize Body Slam to paralyze threats that Thunder Wave cannot, mainly Ground-type Pokémon and faster Taunt users. Notably, Serene Grace doubles Body Slam’s chance to paralyze to a consistent 60%, allowing Jirachi to paralyze a threat most of the time thanks to its great bulk. In any case, Thunder Wave is always an option over Body Slam for a guaranteed paralysis move. Keep in mind, however, that most support Pokémon have access to Thunder Wave, and Body Slam differentiates Jirachi from its competition the numerous support Pokemon which use Thunder Wave. Another trait that Jirachi has over other support Pokemon is Iron Head; this move is complimentary with paralysis and Serene Grace, as Jirachi can slowly chip away at an opponent, weakening it for another Pokemon to KO. Iron Head may also allow Jirachi a “free turn” for Wish healing, provided the opponent is flinched. However, this Jirachi should be used defensively at first, so Iron Head usage should be kept to a minimum because of the zero Attack investment.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The last slot is entirely up to the user. Fire Punch provides an efficient buffer against allows Jirachi to significantly damage Scizor and Ferrothorn, both of which are significant defensive threats. Protect provides Jirachi with a way to scout for incoming attacks, and allows it to heal safely after using Wish. With Protect, Jirachi will not have to rely on Iron Head as much, but it cannot check Scizor or Ferrothorn. Jirachi can further support the team by utilizing Stealth Rock; if the team does not have other entry hazard users available, Jirachi can easily set up Stealth Rock and still function without its other fourth moves. U-turn is also an option to pass Jirachi’s Wish safely to another teammate; with Jirachi’s relatively slow Speed without investment and good bulk, it is nearly guaranteed to heal another teammate successfully without the recipient taking damage.</p>
<p>The given EVs allow give Jirachi maximum special bulk while outrunning Jolly Tyranitar. Significant Speed investment is not necessary due to Body Slam or Thunder Wave. Alternatively, one may opt for a more physically defensive spread of 240 HP / 160 Def / 76 SpD / 32 Spe with an Impish nature. This spread allows Jirachi to better take physical attacks while maintaining a reasonable amount of special bulk. It is a perfectly viable alternative over the main spread, depending on the team's needs. Furthermore, Jirachi may opt to invest in 64 Speed EVs in order to outrun maximum Speed Jolly Scizor, a rising occurrence in the metagame.</p>
<p>Jirachi provides support in the form of Wish and a paralysis-inducing move, allowing slower, but powerful, teammates to thrive. Defensively speaking, a levitating Dragon-type is a perfect team member to receive Jirachi's support; Latios, Latias, Dragonite, Salamence, and Hydreigon are all immune or resistant to Jirachi's weaknesses. Being the powerhouses they are, they can put a dent in the opposing team while being kept alive by Wish. Gyarados, while not a Dragon-type, operates similarly to them and can provide an offensive and / or defensive approach to the team with Dragon Dance, Dragon Tail, and Intimidate. Jirachi, in return, can easily take the Dragon-, Ice-, and Rock-type moves aimed at all of them and repeat the support process.</p>
[SET]
name: SubCM
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Calm Mind
move 3: Thunderbolt
move 4: Flash Cannon / Psychic / Psyshock
nature: Timid
item: Leftovers
evs: 252 HP / 4 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Being Jirachi’s flagship set in the previous generations, Substitute paired with Calm Mind is still a viable strategy on Jirachi due to the ability to break apart bulky and stall-oriented teams. With good defensive typing and maximum HP investment, Jirachi can set up on multiple Pokemon in OU and proceed to sweep after a few boosts. Unlike other Calm Mind boosters, Jirachi has convenient immunities to passive damage, namely Toxic Spikes and sandstorm. The magic of this set is that it easily forces defensive Pokemon, such as Politoed, Blissey, Chansey, Jellicent, opposing Jirachi, and Porygon2, to struggle while it sets up, making a sweep even easier. The strategy is fairly simple; Jirachi should come in on a resisted attack or support move, and then use Substitute to identify the opponent’s response to it. From there, Jirachi has a few options: set up Calm Mind as the opponent switches to an attacker or initial check, or immediately hit-and-run if the counter is a significant threat.</p>
<p>Substitute and Calm Mind are obviously the integral parts of the set. Whereas Substitute blocks status and scouts for counters and checks, Calm Mind allows Jirachi to be more of a threat, offensively and defensively. For its attacking moves, Thunderbolt is necessary to achieve general coverage. Flash Cannon is the primary STAB option to ensure overall coverage. Flash Cannon notably allows Jirachi to 2HKO Tyranitar, who can otherwise wall it if Jirachi has not conjured gained many boosts. Psychic can be a better answer to some other significant OU threats, such as Conkeldurr, Venusaur, and some Fire-type Pokemon. Alternatively, Psyshock gives Jirachi more momentum against physically-weak Pokemon and opposing Calm Mind users, especially Reuniclus and Latias. However, with Substitute and Flash Cannon or Psychic, Jirachi already defeats Chansey and Blissey, the two premier special walls. Choose which STAB move acts in the team's favor most.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>Maximum EV investment in HP is very necessary on this set to boost Jirachi's already great bulk and give it time to set up Calm Mind. With maximum HP, Jirachi can utilize 101 HP Substitutes, which Seismic Toss users, such as Dusclops and Blissey, cannot break with one Seismic Toss. In addition, maximum Speed investment with a Timid nature allows Jirachi to tie with positive-natured Pokemon with base 100 Speed, ensuring it will not be revenge killed easily. The Speed investment, however, is not necessary; Jirachi can be modified to outrun a certain Speed tier, putting the leftover EVs into Defense or Special Attack. Investing in Defense means that Jirachi can prepare for its sweep set up in front of weaker physical attacks.</p>
<p>Because Jirachi has to rely on multiple boosts and two attacks to be significantly threatening, it will run into several notable obstacles. Against offensive teams in general, faster Pokemon with a Fire- or Ground-type move prevent Jirachi from obtaining too many Calm Mind boosts. Celebi, Exeggutor, Latias, Latios, and Krookodile completely wall Jirachi if it chooses to forgo Flash Cannon for Psychic. If Jirachi chooses Flash Cannon, Lanturn, Rotom-W, (Thunderbolt hits Rotom-W for neutral damage) Swampert, Quagsire, and Magnezone wall Jirachi as well, though with enough Calm Mind boosts, Jirachi can casually overcome these threats until its Substitute is unbreakable these threats will be unable to break Jirachi's Substitute, making it easy for Jirachi to get past them. Unaware Quagsire is a rather interesting counter, as it nullifies any boosts Jirachi has executed in the battle and handles Jirachi's unboosted Psychic and Flash Cannon with sick ease. Excadrill walls just about any combination of moves Jirachi chooses. Phazing is also a very serious problem when trying to set up; while Latias and Nidoqueen can force Jirachi out with Roar, Skarmory can survive one Thunderbolt at full health, thanks to Sturdy, and successfully use Whirlwind. Without enough Calm Mind boosts, Jirachi cannot deal enough damage to Scizor with Thunderbolt before Scizor can break its Substitute with U-turn and switch to a counter, putting Jirachi in an awkward position. Finally, faster Encore and Taunt users of Encore and Taunt pose an annoyance to Jirachi if it is caught using Substitute or Calm Mind. Jirachi especially must look out for Whimsicott, as Whimsicott can easily use Prankster Encore, Taunt, and Substitute to completely nullify Jirachi's efforts.</p>
<p>In order for Jirachi to function effectively, it must have adequate support. Unlike Jirachi’s other sets, it certainly this set can be paired with more defensive, stall-based teammates. Stealth Rock is essential to negate Skarmory’s Sturdy effect and prevent it from phazing Jirachi and its boosts away. Entry hazard support in general is beneficial so Jirachi can force special attackers out and shuffle the opposing team to score random KOs. Ironically, Skarmory is one of the best hazard layers entry hazard users to pair with Jirachi, as it counters many significant Ground-types and can heal off damage easily with Roost while laying down both Spikes and Stealth Rock. As an added benefit, Skarmory can abuse its Sturdy ability and use Whirlwind to phaze out troublesome threats. Keep in mind that both Jirachi and Skarmory must play around their Fire-type weakness. Deoxys-D can also set up both aforementioned entry hazards with ease, and while it does not particularly compliment Jirachi defensively, it brushes off numerous attacks heartily easily and heals off damage. Toxic Spikes support, while a tad unnecessary in comparison to Spikes and Stealth Rock, allows Jirachi to stall out many threats as it sets up and sweeps, chipping the enemy’s health to KO range.</p>
<p>Jirachi also requires some offensive teammates to bring down its counters. Any levitating Dragon-type can easily absorb Jirachi’s two weaknesses and start a scuffle with powerful attacks. Dragonite, Salamence, Hydreigon, and Latios are all but just a few of many capable wallbreaking Dragon-types that can pave the way for Jirachi’s sweep and their own. With at least one Fire-type move and a Dragon-type STAB, these Dragon-types easily eliminate Jirachi’s counters. Bulky Dragon Dance Gyarados with at least one boost can defeat most of Jirachi’s problem opponents as well. If Jirachi finds that dealing with weather teams is a problem, Drizzle Politoed is most certainly an instant solution. With a Choice Scarf attached, Politoed is able to revenge kill many weather-reliant threats while changing the weather to stormy skies. With weather in mind, eliminating Excadrill is an extreme priority, since it walls Jirachi no matter which two moves it chooses. Whimsicott can unfortunately only be dealt with by battering it until it faints. Other than some specific counters such as Magic Guard and Magic Bounce users, you must assault and outsmart Whimsicott to eliminate it.</p>
[SET]
name: Superachi! (Offensive Calm Mind)
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Psychic / Psyshock
move 3: Grass Knot / Thunderbolt
move 4: Hidden Power Fire
nature: Timid
item: Leftovers
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Although Jirachi is mostly designed to set up in front of defensively-oriented Pokemon, Superachi is quite the contrary. With an acute emphasis on the offensive, Jirachi can now serve as both a sizeable sweeper and a lure to most its usual checks and counters. Tyranitar, Scizor, Ferrothorn, Quagsire, and Swampert are destroyed with by a super effective move, exterminating since Jirachi exterminates them all after just one Calm Mind. This gives Jirachi more ample opportunities to wreak havoc upon the rest of the opposing team. A transition from defense to offense is also safe due to Jirachi’s still-reliable bulk, despite the different investment and strategy.</p>
<p>The set is nothing complicated; Calm Mind is the main move on this set and is complimented by three coverage moves. Jirachi can choose between Psychic and Psyshock as for its main STAB attack. Again, while Psychic-type attacks do not have outstanding coverage alone, with the other moves, these attacks can be especially effective. While Psychic takes immediate advantage of specially-weak threats such as Gliscor, Psyshock is a great alternative due to the ability to eliminate threats that are weaker on the physical side. Jirachi cannot set up on Blissey and other walls as easily, so Psyshock provides a way to dispose of them as soon as possible. Grass Knot accommodates Psychic and Psyshock by immediately disposing helps Jirachi to dispose of the multiple Water- and Ground-types found in OU; especially Quagsire who would otherwise ignore Jirachi’s Calm Mind boosts with Unaware. Thunderbolt is an acceptable alternative to more reliably counter Skarmory and Vaporeon, though Tyranitar becomes more of a threat without Grass Knot. Finally, Hidden Power Fire completes the set’s coverage by removing Scizor, Ferrothorn, Forretress, and some Grass-types from play promptly. Hidden Power Fire also provides an alternate way of scratching Skarmory without the need for Thunderbolt.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>Like the moveset itself, the EVs are also pretty much straightforward. Here, Jirachi fully invests in Special Attack in order to assault with more zest. With a Timid nature, a Speed IV of 30, and maximum investment in Speed, Jirachi outruns Hydreigon and lower, while managing a Speed tie with positive-natured base 100s also using an imperfect Speed IV. Hidden Power Ice is worthy of mention to take out most Dragon-types and Gliscor in one hit, while keeping Jirachi’s Speed perfect (Hidden Power Fire forces Jirachi to use a 30 Speed IV). However, with its main options, Jirachi can already hurt Gliscor and the Dragon-types with preceding damage, and some targets of Hidden Power Ice, such as Garchomp and Landorus, already outrun and defeat Jirachi.</p>
<p>Like similar offensive sets, Superachi has problems of its own, though it can easily lure in and eliminate its original checks and counters. Heatran makes a pessimistic good counter to Jirachi due to a neutrality to Thunderbolt and an immunity or resistance to the rest of Jirachi’s moves, putting Jirachi in a corner with its powerful STAB Fire-type attacks. With powerful STAB Fire-type moves, Heatran puts Jirachi in a corner. If Jirachi chooses to forgo Psyshock for Psychic, Blissey and Chansey wall it eternally. Vice-versa, Similarly, Gliscor and some physical walls make decent pivots against can switch into Psyshock, though a boosted Grass Knot or Hidden Power should easily take care of them with prior damage. As usual, Latias and Latios still make creditable counters to Calm Mind Jirachi due to Jirachi's lack of coverage against the both of them. With Calm Mind (and sometimes Roar), they can still set up alongside Jirachi, though it can usually win Calm Mind wars with Psyshock and its resistances to Dragon- and Psychic-type moves.</p>
<p>With any offensive Jirachi, entry hazards are at least helpful in obtaining some OHKOs Jirachi would not otherwise get. For example, with Stealth Rock on the field, Jirachi handily defeats Zapdos, Gyarados, and Chandelure with a boosted Psychic or Psyshock. A bulky Water-type, such as Suicune or Gyarados, ensures that Jirachi’s counters in Fire- and Ground-type foes are kept at bay with high health. As usual, levitating Dragon-types resist Jirachi’s two weaknesses as well as upholding a good offensive presence against the opposing team. These Dragon-types also beat most bulky or fast Fire- and Ground- type Pokemon with resistances and a powerful attack. Strong Pursuit users, such as Scizor, Tyranitar, and Bisharp handle Blissey, Chansey, Latias, and Latios fairly well. Since Superachi handily lures in and defeats most of its counters, teammates Pokemon who originally had problems with these Pokemon make fine teammates as well. Kingdra, Tyranitar, Gyarados, Reuniclus, Dragonite, and many others appreciate the removal of their respective counters while offering their own offensive support.</p>
[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Iron Head
move 2: Ice Punch
move 3: Fire Punch
move 4: Trick / U-turn / ThunderPunch
nature: Jolly
item: Choice Scarf
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>The last generation provided Jirachi two brand-new dangerous weapons that significantly broke its label as only a special attacker: Choice Scarf and Iron Head. With a Choice Scarf equipped, Jirachi gains the ability to revenge kill the majority of faster threats in OU, including but not limited to Latios, Latias, Tornadus, Thundurus, Weavile, most Dragon Dance users, and Shell Break users. Jirachi's resistances also help utilize this set to its fullest, as it can brush off many priority moves and come in on numerous attacks. However, one would be misguided as to treat this Jirachi as a sweeper or a significant offensive threat. Rather, consider Choice Scarf Jirachi more of a “supporting attacker"; it does not have the immediate power to pose as a noteworthy physical sweeper.</p>
<p>Unlike other users of Choice Scarf, Jirachi makes great use of its unique ability, Serene Grace, with STAB Iron Head and its increased chance to continually flinch foes, sometimes even to the point of fainting. Fortunately, this alone makes up for Jirachi's just decent Attack stat. Along with Iron Head, Jirachi also has complimentary coverage options in Ice Punch and Fire Punch, accompanied by the user’s choice in the fourth slot. Fire Punch dents most foes that attempt to sponge Iron Head, such as Scizor and Ferrothorn, while Ice Punch eliminates most Dragon- and Flying-types, most notably Landorus, Dragonite, and Garchomp.</p>
<p>Trick allows Jirachi to cripple a would-be counter or defensive wall, while U-turn allows Jirachi to switch out of its counters, which is helpful with some entry hazards on the field. Finally, ThunderPunch is optional to smack Gyarados and Jellicent, but has little uses outside of that this generation. Alternatively, Thunderbolt can be used over ThunderPunch to more reliably check Gyarados and Skarmory, provided Jirachi uses a Hasty or Naive nature. However, like ThunderPunch, Thunderbolt is rather specific, and will be rather weak with zero Special Attack investment. Use Trick with consideration, as Jirachi will turn into a less effective attacker without Choice Scarf or an attack-boosting item.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>As far as counters go, the number of Pokemon that can set up on a single move is unfortunately numerous. Since Choice Scarf Jirachi operates as a supporting attacker rather than a major offensive force, not much support will actually be necessary. Teammates who can reliably counter Heatran, Ferrothorn, Scizor, Skarmory, Excadrill, and some Rotom formes are appreciated. A strategy is to switch Jirachi out of something that forces it out, and switch in again to revenge kill the foe. Jirachi also appreciates a teammate who can fight against physical walls without difficulty. Entry hazards are fairly efficient with this Jirachi appreciates entry hazard support, since it will be switching out often forces a lot of switches. For a quick way to set up hazards, Deoxys-S is usually the best to lay at least one layer of Spikes or Stealth Rock, while an attacking Infernape or Azelf provides both offensive and Stealth Rock support.</p>
[SET]
name: Substitute + Paralysis
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Body Slam / Thunder Wave
move 3: Iron Head
move 4: Fire Punch
nature: Jolly
item: Leftovers
evs: 80 HP / 252 Atk / 176 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This set is a quite different, albeit expected, approach to Jirachi. While the defensive sets are used for pure support in Wish and a paralysis-inducing move, Jirachi can also spread paralysis from a more offensive angle. With Substitute, Jirachi can ease prediction against a would-be threat and successfully paralyze it, proceeding to flinch it to death with Iron Head or forcing it to switch to another vulnerable Pokemon. The primary strategy is simple; Jirachi simply has to paralyze its switch-in, and either use Substitute for prediction or switch to a counter. It can then come in again to paralyze more foes and set up behind a Substitute. One may modify this strategy depending on the battle conditions. Another strategy is to keep using Substitute until the opponent is fully paralyzed, though Jirachi is better off switching to another teammate for the purposes of safety and conservation.</p>
<p>As mentioned before, Jirachi is very unique in comparison to other support Pokemon due to its access to Serene Grace, increasing Body Slam's chance to paralyze to 60%. Serene Grace also boosts Iron Head's chance to flinch to 60%. With Iron Head, the opposing Pokemon is forced to can attack only 30% of the time with a 100% accurate move. This leaves Jirachi with plenty of time to recover with Leftovers, switch to a counter or set up Substitutes. With this in mind, Jirachi can be used in the long run and possibly sweep once its checks and counters have been eliminated. Jirachi is given Fire Punch in the last slot to dent any Steel-types attempting to wall Iron Head, especially Ferrothorn who cannot break your Substitute.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The main EV spread allows Jirachi to outpace positive-natured Pokemon with base 90 Speed so that it isn't too reliant on paralysis. The Attack investment maximizes Jirachi's offensive power, and the rest is put into HP for a steady amount of some additional bulk. Since this set is dedicated towards paralyzing as many Pokemon as it can, Jirachi can opt for alternative EV spreads. Maximum Speed is generally not necessary, and Jirachi can invest in bulk as well, so a spread of 252 HP / 224 Atk / 32 Spe with an Adamant nature works fairly well. With 252 HP EVs, Seismic Toss users, such as Dusclops and Blissey, cannot break Jirachi's Substitute and will be forced to retreat or take multiple Iron Heads. 224 Attack EVs give Jirachi a fair amount of offense, while 32 Speed EVs allow Jirachi to outspeed Jolly Tyranitar. Additionally, 64 Speed EVs may be invested to outspeed Jolly Scizor with maximum Speed.</p>
<p>Also up to the user's preference is the decision between Body Slam and Thunder Wave. As explained before, Body Slam is what sets Jirachi apart from other support Pokemon, most of whom have access to Thunder Wave. However, if one finds the 60% chance of paralysis life-gambling, Thunder Wave is a perfectly acceptable alternative for general reliability. Obviously, Thunder Wave cannot hit important Ground-types like such as Garchomp and Excadrill for paralysis, so choose whatever fits the team's needs. Drain Punch can be put in place of Fire Punch for a few reasons; it can still super effectively hit Steel-types while being similar to Fire Punch in terms of damage output. It can also hit Heatran, one of Jirachi's usual counters, for super effective damage. Drain Punch's side effect also gives Jirachi the ability to restore health. With Drain Punch, however, Jirachi loses coverage specifically against Scizor. As a special note, Secret Power can be a viable alternative to Body Slam if one finds it difficult to obtain Body Slam on a cartridge.</p>
<p>While this set is extremely difficult for other players to work around, it definitely has some hard counters. For this Jirachi to be effective, Skarmory, Hippowdon, Poison Heal Gliscor, Heatran, Empoleon, Tentacruel, Chandelure, and Rotom-W all must be eliminated. In fact, physical walls, Water-, and Fire-type Pokemon in general make good checks to take Iron Head and Fire Punch, though most of them are crippled by paralysis. Again, a levitating Dragon-type works perfectly well with this Jirachi. Latias and Latios can set up Calm Mind in front of most of Jirachi's counters, while Dragonite and Salamence can break walls more easily with the paralysis support Jirachi provides. As a special mention, Togekiss also appreciates paralysis support, and can use a strategy of "paraflinching" alongside Jirachi. Defensively, it is immune to Jirachi's Ground-type weakness, while Jirachi resists the Rock- and Ice-type weaknesses of Togekiss. With paralysis provided, Togekiss can more easily sweep with its deceptively dangerous Nasty Plot sets. On a dedicated paralysis team, Thundurus and Whimsicott are generally the best secondary paralysis-inducers because of their Prankster ability. Whimsicott, in particular, saves Jirachi from being decimated by Excadrill while being able to paralyze all types with priority Stun Spore.</p>
[Other Options]
<p>Jirachi has a surplus large number of interesting options to play with, though its more effective strategies have been listed. Drain Punch is an odd option to heal off damage and super effectively hit Steel-types. It should be noted that Drain Punch has been increased to 75 Base Power in the generation shift, so it is now competitively viable in Jirachi's physically-based sets. Energy Ball is an option for special sets; though Grass Knot is more useful as it hits Jirachi’s counters for more damage, as most of them are heavy.</p>
<p>With Drizzle support from Politoed, Jirachi can opt to run Thunder instead of Thunderbolt for the higher Base Power and higher chance to paralyze opponents. With Serene Grace factored in, most opponents switching into Jirachi must be aware of that high chance of paralysis. Also with Drizzle support, Jirachi has its Fire-type weakness halved, and can also run Water Pulse. Factoring in rain, Water Pulse technically has a 90 base power, and with Serene Grace, it has a high chance of inducing confusion, making it an option worth considering for coverage. If you are opting to run Politoed on a team, keep in mind that Jirachi benefits from it marvelously.</p>
<p>Last generation, Jirachi could lure counters and checks and eliminate them by using a mixed set. This mixed set in particular used Iron Head, two elemental punches, and a special move, along with a Naive nature, an Expert Belt, and maximum Speed and Attack. This set could be used to lure and defeat specific threats in the metagame, but is generally weak against the opponent once the special move has been revealed. On this note, Jirachi may choose to utilize a mixed Superachi set as well. With a Naive nature, 120 Attack EVs, Life Orb and Iron Head, Jirachi knocks many counters into the KO range for its special moves. It does not have as much longevity as the original Calm Mind sets due to Life Orb, but it is still an option for surprise. These sets can be used to great value if used with Shell Break Baton Pass Gorebyss, which instantly boosts all of Jirachi's offensive stats, and makes the always-annoying Iron Head even stronger.</p>
<p>Jirachi is also abundant also has many options in the support department. With Cosmic Power, Jirachi can run a purely defensive set with Wish and Toxic as compliments. Keep in mind that Jirachi is vulnerable to Steel-types and Taunt users if Cosmic Power is considered. Jirachi also has access to dual screens, which is perfectly acceptable with U-turn and Jirachi's good defensive typing. Safeguard prevents status, but it is better off left to a dedicated user of stall or defense. Magic Coat is an odd support option that allows Jirachi to bypass attempts to set up hazards or cripple Jirachi with status moves. For field moves, Jirachi also has Gravity and Trick Room. Whereas Trick Room is decent with Jirachi's Wish and U-turn, Gravity is generally considered a negligible gimmick. Stealth Rock may be used on any of Jirachi's other support sets, but Jirachi generally cannot risk moveslot syndrome.</p>
[Checks and Counters]
<p>By virtue of its near-limitless diversity, it is extremely difficult to find a "hard counter" to Jirachi. Due to the unpredictable nature of Jirachi and the potency of all its sets, prediction is normally the first step to defeating it. Arguably, Jirachi's specially-based sets are the most difficult to challenge. While Substitute + Calm Mind makes many weak attackers and Seismic Toss-reliant Pokemon struggle, its more offensive special sets can put a large dent in any team immediately. Counters to these sets differ depending on the combination of moves Jirachi chooses. If Jirachi isn't using Psyshock or the Substitute + Calm Mind set, Blissey and Chansey sponge its special attacks all day. When Skarmory is at full health, it can phaze out Jirachi and survive a Thunderbolt thanks to Sturdy. If Whimsicott catches Jirachi using a support move, Grass Knot, or Thunderbolt, it can use Prankster use priority Encore to lock Jirachi into that move and drain its health with Leech Seed. Additionally, Krookodile, though pretty rare in OU, is immune to the combination of Psychic + Thunderbolt. Speaking of Ground-types, Excadrill and Landorus, two common sweepers on a sandstorm team, can switch into a predicted Thunderbolt, Psychic, or Thunder Wave, and easily OHKO with Earthquake. Finally, Latias and Latios both resist Jirachi's most common special attacks and set up Calm Minds alongside it, using Roar to remove its boosts if possible.</p>
<p>Physically based sets are slightly easier to check. Due to Serene Grace and Iron Head's high chance to flinch, however, any Pokemon that is paralyzed or is slower than Jirachi risks being flinched to death. Rotom-W, Rotom-H, Heatran, and Empoleon are all 4x resistant to Iron Head, and can take most of Jirachi's other attacks comfortably as well. Bulky Water-types also take minimal damage from Iron Head, and most of them can take a ThunderPunch and heal it off. Most physically defensive Steel-types (such as Skarmory) and Ground-types (Hippowdon) also do a good job of sponging physical Jirachi's attacks, though they risk a burn from Fire Punch should Jirachi run it. Ferrothorn can wall any set that lacks Fire Punch and can either set up Spikes or use Leech Seed. Ferrothorn also has the benefit of chipping Jirachi's health away with Iron Barbs. Faster Pokemon risk being paralyzed; however, opponents such as Garchomp, Landorus, and Excadrill can all come in comfortably on Thunder Wave and OHKO with a super effective move.</p>
<p>Despite its versatility, Jirachi does have some very general checks and counters. Heatran can come in on practically any set lacking Hidden Power Ground, and immediately threaten Jirachi with a STAB Fire Blast. Heatran also doesn't mind paralysis too much. Volcarona can also threaten any Jirachi set, as it takes little damage from Jirachi’s common attacks, and can threaten Jirachi with a STAB Fire-type attack. Volcarona does dislike paralysis however, so be sure to scout the set before attempting to check Jirachi. Magnezone, particularly, is a very special counter as it can trap Jirachi in the battlefield using its Magnet Pull ability and swiftly eliminate it with its choice of Thunderbolt or the correct Hidden Power. Most Jirachi sets (except for those running a good super effective Hidden Power and Fire Punch) are rather unprepared for Magnezone. Like Heatran, Magnezone doesn't mind Thunder Wave too much. Therefore, unless Jirachi has built up enough Calm Minds or has a super effective move, Magnezone is forever a thorn in Jirachi's side.</p>
<p>If one were to choose a phrase that best describes Jirachi, this phrase would most likely be <i>Noblesse Oblige</i>, meaning that with great power and influence come great responsibilities. After repeatedly high usage during the last two generations, Jirachi remains one of the best Pokemon with a base stat total of 600, and for good reason. Its phenomenal typing and enormous movepool allow it to run a variety of sets that no other competitors can replicate fully. Jirachi’s stats also allow it to perform nearly any role with good insurance with ease, and unlike other rivals such as Shaymin and Latias, all of its stats benefit it. Jirachi’s extremely useful ability, Serene Grace, is still as abusable as ever, paired with moves including but not limited to Iron Head, Body Slam, and Thunder. Jirachi’s list of options is certainly expandable, as it can perform many roles ranging from the classic Calm Mind set to standard physical sets to helpful support sets.</p>
<p>Jirachi’s plethora of options and possibilities are not the only things that benefit it this generation. With the presence of classic and new threats in the land of the Overused, such as Latios, Latias, Reuniclus, Ferrothorn, and Outrage users, Jirachi bravely stand up against many of them. Its Steel / Psychic typing grants Jirachi nigh eight resistances and a mere two weaknesses, allowing Jirachi to sponge many of the omnipresent Dragon-, Rock-, and Ice-type attacks of OU. On top of this, Jirachi’s typing also grants it easy access to the battlefield, being immune to both sandstorm and Toxic Spikes, making it hard to stall out. To put salt in the opponent's wounds, The Wish Pokemon, of course, also has access to Wish, granting consistent, reliable healing for itself and its teammates. With all these traits in consideration, Jirachi can easily fit on and support any team with little issue.</p>
[SET]
name: Specially Defensive
move 1: Iron Head
move 2: Body Slam / Thunder Wave
move 3: Wish
move 4: Fire Punch / Protect / Stealth Rock
nature: Careful
item: Leftovers
evs: 252 HP / 224 SpD / 32 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This set utilizes Jirachi’s access to multiple support moves and good defensive typing, given Jirachi has just two weaknesses and a huge number of resistances, most importantly against Dragon-type moves. With investment in HP and Special Defense, Jirachi can cushion various special attacks with ease and while providing all-round support with paralysis and a 200 HP Wish. For example, Jirachi makes a perfectly viable switch-in to Timid Choice Specs Latios' Draco Meteor, losing only 31.4% - 37.1% of its health when hit. This means that Specially Defensive Jirachi can sponge nearly all neutral or resisted hits below this specific attack, one of the most threatening in OU. For a less mathematical example of Jirachi's Wish, a Pokemon with an uninvested base 80-90 HP stat (such as Latios, Thundurus, and Volcarona) will recover about two-thirds of its health, which is a considerable improvement in comparison to last generation.</p>
<p>Jirachi is unique when compared to other paralysis-inducers thanks to its ability, Serene Grace, Body Slam, and Iron Head. Body Slam is primary over Thunder Wave When it comes to the paralysis-inducing move, Body Slam is the primary option, because, whereas a multitude of support Pokémon can abuse Thunder Wave, Jirachi can utilize Body Slam to paralyze threats that Thunder Wave cannot, mainly Ground-type Pokémon and faster Taunt users. Notably, Serene Grace doubles Body Slam’s chance to paralyze to a consistent 60%, allowing Jirachi to paralyze a threat most of the time thanks to its great bulk. In any case, Thunder Wave is always an option over Body Slam for a guaranteed paralysis move. Keep in mind, however, that most support Pokémon have access to Thunder Wave, and Body Slam differentiates Jirachi from its competition the numerous support Pokemon which use Thunder Wave. Another trait that Jirachi has over other support Pokemon is Iron Head; this move is complimentary with paralysis and Serene Grace, as Jirachi can slowly chip away at an opponent, weakening it for another Pokemon to KO. Iron Head may also allow Jirachi a “free turn” for Wish healing, provided the opponent is flinched. However, this Jirachi should be used defensively at first, so Iron Head usage should be kept to a minimum because of the zero Attack investment.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The last slot is entirely up to the user. Fire Punch provides an efficient buffer against allows Jirachi to significantly damage Scizor and Ferrothorn, both of which are significant defensive threats. Protect provides Jirachi with a way to scout for incoming attacks, and allows it to heal safely after using Wish. With Protect, Jirachi will not have to rely on Iron Head as much, but it cannot check Scizor or Ferrothorn. Jirachi can further support the team by utilizing Stealth Rock; if the team does not have other entry hazard users available, Jirachi can easily set up Stealth Rock and still function without its other fourth moves. U-turn is also an option to pass Jirachi’s Wish safely to another teammate; with Jirachi’s relatively slow Speed without investment and good bulk, it is nearly guaranteed to heal another teammate successfully without the recipient taking damage.</p>
<p>The given EVs allow give Jirachi maximum special bulk while outrunning Jolly Tyranitar. Significant Speed investment is not necessary due to Body Slam or Thunder Wave. Alternatively, one may opt for a more physically defensive spread of 240 HP / 160 Def / 76 SpD / 32 Spe with an Impish nature. This spread allows Jirachi to better take physical attacks while maintaining a reasonable amount of special bulk. It is a perfectly viable alternative over the main spread, depending on the team's needs. Furthermore, Jirachi may opt to invest in 64 Speed EVs in order to outrun maximum Speed Jolly Scizor, a rising occurrence in the metagame.</p>
<p>Jirachi provides support in the form of Wish and a paralysis-inducing move, allowing slower, but powerful, teammates to thrive. Defensively speaking, a levitating Dragon-type is a perfect team member to receive Jirachi's support; Latios, Latias, Dragonite, Salamence, and Hydreigon are all immune or resistant to Jirachi's weaknesses. Being the powerhouses they are, they can put a dent in the opposing team while being kept alive by Wish. Gyarados, while not a Dragon-type, operates similarly to them and can provide an offensive and / or defensive approach to the team with Dragon Dance, Dragon Tail, and Intimidate. Jirachi, in return, can easily take the Dragon-, Ice-, and Rock-type moves aimed at all of them and repeat the support process.</p>
[SET]
name: SubCM
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Calm Mind
move 3: Thunderbolt
move 4: Flash Cannon / Psychic / Psyshock
nature: Timid
item: Leftovers
evs: 252 HP / 4 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Being Jirachi’s flagship set in the previous generations, Substitute paired with Calm Mind is still a viable strategy on Jirachi due to the ability to break apart bulky and stall-oriented teams. With good defensive typing and maximum HP investment, Jirachi can set up on multiple Pokemon in OU and proceed to sweep after a few boosts. Unlike other Calm Mind boosters, Jirachi has convenient immunities to passive damage, namely Toxic Spikes and sandstorm. The magic of this set is that it easily forces defensive Pokemon, such as Politoed, Blissey, Chansey, Jellicent, opposing Jirachi, and Porygon2, to struggle while it sets up, making a sweep even easier. The strategy is fairly simple; Jirachi should come in on a resisted attack or support move, and then use Substitute to identify the opponent’s response to it. From there, Jirachi has a few options: set up Calm Mind as the opponent switches to an attacker or initial check, or immediately hit-and-run if the counter is a significant threat.</p>
<p>Substitute and Calm Mind are obviously the integral parts of the set. Whereas Substitute blocks status and scouts for counters and checks, Calm Mind allows Jirachi to be more of a threat, offensively and defensively. For its attacking moves, Thunderbolt is necessary to achieve general coverage. Flash Cannon is the primary STAB option to ensure overall coverage. Flash Cannon notably allows Jirachi to 2HKO Tyranitar, who can otherwise wall it if Jirachi has not conjured gained many boosts. Psychic can be a better answer to some other significant OU threats, such as Conkeldurr, Venusaur, and some Fire-type Pokemon. Alternatively, Psyshock gives Jirachi more momentum against physically-weak Pokemon and opposing Calm Mind users, especially Reuniclus and Latias. However, with Substitute and Flash Cannon or Psychic, Jirachi already defeats Chansey and Blissey, the two premier special walls. Choose which STAB move acts in the team's favor most.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>Maximum EV investment in HP is very necessary on this set to boost Jirachi's already great bulk and give it time to set up Calm Mind. With maximum HP, Jirachi can utilize 101 HP Substitutes, which Seismic Toss users, such as Dusclops and Blissey, cannot break with one Seismic Toss. In addition, maximum Speed investment with a Timid nature allows Jirachi to tie with positive-natured Pokemon with base 100 Speed, ensuring it will not be revenge killed easily. The Speed investment, however, is not necessary; Jirachi can be modified to outrun a certain Speed tier, putting the leftover EVs into Defense or Special Attack. Investing in Defense means that Jirachi can prepare for its sweep set up in front of weaker physical attacks.</p>
<p>Because Jirachi has to rely on multiple boosts and two attacks to be significantly threatening, it will run into several notable obstacles. Against offensive teams in general, faster Pokemon with a Fire- or Ground-type move prevent Jirachi from obtaining too many Calm Mind boosts. Celebi, Exeggutor, Latias, Latios, and Krookodile completely wall Jirachi if it chooses to forgo Flash Cannon for Psychic. If Jirachi chooses Flash Cannon, Lanturn, Rotom-W, (Thunderbolt hits Rotom-W for neutral damage) Swampert, Quagsire, and Magnezone wall Jirachi as well, though with enough Calm Mind boosts, Jirachi can casually overcome these threats until its Substitute is unbreakable these threats will be unable to break Jirachi's Substitute, making it easy for Jirachi to get past them. Unaware Quagsire is a rather interesting counter, as it nullifies any boosts Jirachi has executed in the battle and handles Jirachi's unboosted Psychic and Flash Cannon with sick ease. Excadrill walls just about any combination of moves Jirachi chooses. Phazing is also a very serious problem when trying to set up; while Latias and Nidoqueen can force Jirachi out with Roar, Skarmory can survive one Thunderbolt at full health, thanks to Sturdy, and successfully use Whirlwind. Without enough Calm Mind boosts, Jirachi cannot deal enough damage to Scizor with Thunderbolt before Scizor can break its Substitute with U-turn and switch to a counter, putting Jirachi in an awkward position. Finally, faster Encore and Taunt users of Encore and Taunt pose an annoyance to Jirachi if it is caught using Substitute or Calm Mind. Jirachi especially must look out for Whimsicott, as Whimsicott can easily use Prankster Encore, Taunt, and Substitute to completely nullify Jirachi's efforts.</p>
<p>In order for Jirachi to function effectively, it must have adequate support. Unlike Jirachi’s other sets, it certainly this set can be paired with more defensive, stall-based teammates. Stealth Rock is essential to negate Skarmory’s Sturdy effect and prevent it from phazing Jirachi and its boosts away. Entry hazard support in general is beneficial so Jirachi can force special attackers out and shuffle the opposing team to score random KOs. Ironically, Skarmory is one of the best hazard layers entry hazard users to pair with Jirachi, as it counters many significant Ground-types and can heal off damage easily with Roost while laying down both Spikes and Stealth Rock. As an added benefit, Skarmory can abuse its Sturdy ability and use Whirlwind to phaze out troublesome threats. Keep in mind that both Jirachi and Skarmory must play around their Fire-type weakness. Deoxys-D can also set up both aforementioned entry hazards with ease, and while it does not particularly compliment Jirachi defensively, it brushes off numerous attacks heartily easily and heals off damage. Toxic Spikes support, while a tad unnecessary in comparison to Spikes and Stealth Rock, allows Jirachi to stall out many threats as it sets up and sweeps, chipping the enemy’s health to KO range.</p>
<p>Jirachi also requires some offensive teammates to bring down its counters. Any levitating Dragon-type can easily absorb Jirachi’s two weaknesses and start a scuffle with powerful attacks. Dragonite, Salamence, Hydreigon, and Latios are all but just a few of many capable wallbreaking Dragon-types that can pave the way for Jirachi’s sweep and their own. With at least one Fire-type move and a Dragon-type STAB, these Dragon-types easily eliminate Jirachi’s counters. Bulky Dragon Dance Gyarados with at least one boost can defeat most of Jirachi’s problem opponents as well. If Jirachi finds that dealing with weather teams is a problem, Drizzle Politoed is most certainly an instant solution. With a Choice Scarf attached, Politoed is able to revenge kill many weather-reliant threats while changing the weather to stormy skies. With weather in mind, eliminating Excadrill is an extreme priority, since it walls Jirachi no matter which two moves it chooses. Whimsicott can unfortunately only be dealt with by battering it until it faints. Other than some specific counters such as Magic Guard and Magic Bounce users, you must assault and outsmart Whimsicott to eliminate it.</p>
[SET]
name: Superachi! (Offensive Calm Mind)
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Psychic / Psyshock
move 3: Grass Knot / Thunderbolt
move 4: Hidden Power Fire
nature: Timid
item: Leftovers
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Although Jirachi is mostly designed to set up in front of defensively-oriented Pokemon, Superachi is quite the contrary. With an acute emphasis on the offensive, Jirachi can now serve as both a sizeable sweeper and a lure to most its usual checks and counters. Tyranitar, Scizor, Ferrothorn, Quagsire, and Swampert are destroyed with by a super effective move, exterminating since Jirachi exterminates them all after just one Calm Mind. This gives Jirachi more ample opportunities to wreak havoc upon the rest of the opposing team. A transition from defense to offense is also safe due to Jirachi’s still-reliable bulk, despite the different investment and strategy.</p>
<p>The set is nothing complicated; Calm Mind is the main move on this set and is complimented by three coverage moves. Jirachi can choose between Psychic and Psyshock as for its main STAB attack. Again, while Psychic-type attacks do not have outstanding coverage alone, with the other moves, these attacks can be especially effective. While Psychic takes immediate advantage of specially-weak threats such as Gliscor, Psyshock is a great alternative due to the ability to eliminate threats that are weaker on the physical side. Jirachi cannot set up on Blissey and other walls as easily, so Psyshock provides a way to dispose of them as soon as possible. Grass Knot accommodates Psychic and Psyshock by immediately disposing helps Jirachi to dispose of the multiple Water- and Ground-types found in OU; especially Quagsire who would otherwise ignore Jirachi’s Calm Mind boosts with Unaware. Thunderbolt is an acceptable alternative to more reliably counter Skarmory and Vaporeon, though Tyranitar becomes more of a threat without Grass Knot. Finally, Hidden Power Fire completes the set’s coverage by removing Scizor, Ferrothorn, Forretress, and some Grass-types from play promptly. Hidden Power Fire also provides an alternate way of scratching Skarmory without the need for Thunderbolt.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>Like the moveset itself, the EVs are also pretty much straightforward. Here, Jirachi fully invests in Special Attack in order to assault with more zest. With a Timid nature, a Speed IV of 30, and maximum investment in Speed, Jirachi outruns Hydreigon and lower, while managing a Speed tie with positive-natured base 100s also using an imperfect Speed IV. Hidden Power Ice is worthy of mention to take out most Dragon-types and Gliscor in one hit, while keeping Jirachi’s Speed perfect (Hidden Power Fire forces Jirachi to use a 30 Speed IV). However, with its main options, Jirachi can already hurt Gliscor and the Dragon-types with preceding damage, and some targets of Hidden Power Ice, such as Garchomp and Landorus, already outrun and defeat Jirachi.</p>
<p>Like similar offensive sets, Superachi has problems of its own, though it can easily lure in and eliminate its original checks and counters. Heatran makes a pessimistic good counter to Jirachi due to a neutrality to Thunderbolt and an immunity or resistance to the rest of Jirachi’s moves, putting Jirachi in a corner with its powerful STAB Fire-type attacks. With powerful STAB Fire-type moves, Heatran puts Jirachi in a corner. If Jirachi chooses to forgo Psyshock for Psychic, Blissey and Chansey wall it eternally. Vice-versa, Similarly, Gliscor and some physical walls make decent pivots against can switch into Psyshock, though a boosted Grass Knot or Hidden Power should easily take care of them with prior damage. As usual, Latias and Latios still make creditable counters to Calm Mind Jirachi due to Jirachi's lack of coverage against the both of them. With Calm Mind (and sometimes Roar), they can still set up alongside Jirachi, though it can usually win Calm Mind wars with Psyshock and its resistances to Dragon- and Psychic-type moves.</p>
<p>With any offensive Jirachi, entry hazards are at least helpful in obtaining some OHKOs Jirachi would not otherwise get. For example, with Stealth Rock on the field, Jirachi handily defeats Zapdos, Gyarados, and Chandelure with a boosted Psychic or Psyshock. A bulky Water-type, such as Suicune or Gyarados, ensures that Jirachi’s counters in Fire- and Ground-type foes are kept at bay with high health. As usual, levitating Dragon-types resist Jirachi’s two weaknesses as well as upholding a good offensive presence against the opposing team. These Dragon-types also beat most bulky or fast Fire- and Ground- type Pokemon with resistances and a powerful attack. Strong Pursuit users, such as Scizor, Tyranitar, and Bisharp handle Blissey, Chansey, Latias, and Latios fairly well. Since Superachi handily lures in and defeats most of its counters, teammates Pokemon who originally had problems with these Pokemon make fine teammates as well. Kingdra, Tyranitar, Gyarados, Reuniclus, Dragonite, and many others appreciate the removal of their respective counters while offering their own offensive support.</p>
[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Iron Head
move 2: Ice Punch
move 3: Fire Punch
move 4: Trick / U-turn / ThunderPunch
nature: Jolly
item: Choice Scarf
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>The last generation provided Jirachi two brand-new dangerous weapons that significantly broke its label as only a special attacker: Choice Scarf and Iron Head. With a Choice Scarf equipped, Jirachi gains the ability to revenge kill the majority of faster threats in OU, including but not limited to Latios, Latias, Tornadus, Thundurus, Weavile, most Dragon Dance users, and Shell Break users. Jirachi's resistances also help utilize this set to its fullest, as it can brush off many priority moves and come in on numerous attacks. However, one would be misguided as to treat this Jirachi as a sweeper or a significant offensive threat. Rather, consider Choice Scarf Jirachi more of a “supporting attacker"; it does not have the immediate power to pose as a noteworthy physical sweeper.</p>
<p>Unlike other users of Choice Scarf, Jirachi makes great use of its unique ability, Serene Grace, with STAB Iron Head and its increased chance to continually flinch foes, sometimes even to the point of fainting. Fortunately, this alone makes up for Jirachi's just decent Attack stat. Along with Iron Head, Jirachi also has complimentary coverage options in Ice Punch and Fire Punch, accompanied by the user’s choice in the fourth slot. Fire Punch dents most foes that attempt to sponge Iron Head, such as Scizor and Ferrothorn, while Ice Punch eliminates most Dragon- and Flying-types, most notably Landorus, Dragonite, and Garchomp.</p>
<p>Trick allows Jirachi to cripple a would-be counter or defensive wall, while U-turn allows Jirachi to switch out of its counters, which is helpful with some entry hazards on the field. Finally, ThunderPunch is optional to smack Gyarados and Jellicent, but has little uses outside of that this generation. Alternatively, Thunderbolt can be used over ThunderPunch to more reliably check Gyarados and Skarmory, provided Jirachi uses a Hasty or Naive nature. However, like ThunderPunch, Thunderbolt is rather specific, and will be rather weak with zero Special Attack investment. Use Trick with consideration, as Jirachi will turn into a less effective attacker without Choice Scarf or an attack-boosting item.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>As far as counters go, the number of Pokemon that can set up on a single move is unfortunately numerous. Since Choice Scarf Jirachi operates as a supporting attacker rather than a major offensive force, not much support will actually be necessary. Teammates who can reliably counter Heatran, Ferrothorn, Scizor, Skarmory, Excadrill, and some Rotom formes are appreciated. A strategy is to switch Jirachi out of something that forces it out, and switch in again to revenge kill the foe. Jirachi also appreciates a teammate who can fight against physical walls without difficulty. Entry hazards are fairly efficient with this Jirachi appreciates entry hazard support, since it will be switching out often forces a lot of switches. For a quick way to set up hazards, Deoxys-S is usually the best to lay at least one layer of Spikes or Stealth Rock, while an attacking Infernape or Azelf provides both offensive and Stealth Rock support.</p>
[SET]
name: Substitute + Paralysis
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Body Slam / Thunder Wave
move 3: Iron Head
move 4: Fire Punch
nature: Jolly
item: Leftovers
evs: 80 HP / 252 Atk / 176 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This set is a quite different, albeit expected, approach to Jirachi. While the defensive sets are used for pure support in Wish and a paralysis-inducing move, Jirachi can also spread paralysis from a more offensive angle. With Substitute, Jirachi can ease prediction against a would-be threat and successfully paralyze it, proceeding to flinch it to death with Iron Head or forcing it to switch to another vulnerable Pokemon. The primary strategy is simple; Jirachi simply has to paralyze its switch-in, and either use Substitute for prediction or switch to a counter. It can then come in again to paralyze more foes and set up behind a Substitute. One may modify this strategy depending on the battle conditions. Another strategy is to keep using Substitute until the opponent is fully paralyzed, though Jirachi is better off switching to another teammate for the purposes of safety and conservation.</p>
<p>As mentioned before, Jirachi is very unique in comparison to other support Pokemon due to its access to Serene Grace, increasing Body Slam's chance to paralyze to 60%. Serene Grace also boosts Iron Head's chance to flinch to 60%. With Iron Head, the opposing Pokemon is forced to can attack only 30% of the time with a 100% accurate move. This leaves Jirachi with plenty of time to recover with Leftovers, switch to a counter or set up Substitutes. With this in mind, Jirachi can be used in the long run and possibly sweep once its checks and counters have been eliminated. Jirachi is given Fire Punch in the last slot to dent any Steel-types attempting to wall Iron Head, especially Ferrothorn who cannot break your Substitute.</p>
[ADDITIONAL COMMENTS]
<p>The main EV spread allows Jirachi to outpace positive-natured Pokemon with base 90 Speed so that it isn't too reliant on paralysis. The Attack investment maximizes Jirachi's offensive power, and the rest is put into HP for a steady amount of some additional bulk. Since this set is dedicated towards paralyzing as many Pokemon as it can, Jirachi can opt for alternative EV spreads. Maximum Speed is generally not necessary, and Jirachi can invest in bulk as well, so a spread of 252 HP / 224 Atk / 32 Spe with an Adamant nature works fairly well. With 252 HP EVs, Seismic Toss users, such as Dusclops and Blissey, cannot break Jirachi's Substitute and will be forced to retreat or take multiple Iron Heads. 224 Attack EVs give Jirachi a fair amount of offense, while 32 Speed EVs allow Jirachi to outspeed Jolly Tyranitar. Additionally, 64 Speed EVs may be invested to outspeed Jolly Scizor with maximum Speed.</p>
<p>Also up to the user's preference is the decision between Body Slam and Thunder Wave. As explained before, Body Slam is what sets Jirachi apart from other support Pokemon, most of whom have access to Thunder Wave. However, if one finds the 60% chance of paralysis life-gambling, Thunder Wave is a perfectly acceptable alternative for general reliability. Obviously, Thunder Wave cannot hit important Ground-types like such as Garchomp and Excadrill for paralysis, so choose whatever fits the team's needs. Drain Punch can be put in place of Fire Punch for a few reasons; it can still super effectively hit Steel-types while being similar to Fire Punch in terms of damage output. It can also hit Heatran, one of Jirachi's usual counters, for super effective damage. Drain Punch's side effect also gives Jirachi the ability to restore health. With Drain Punch, however, Jirachi loses coverage specifically against Scizor. As a special note, Secret Power can be a viable alternative to Body Slam if one finds it difficult to obtain Body Slam on a cartridge.</p>
<p>While this set is extremely difficult for other players to work around, it definitely has some hard counters. For this Jirachi to be effective, Skarmory, Hippowdon, Poison Heal Gliscor, Heatran, Empoleon, Tentacruel, Chandelure, and Rotom-W all must be eliminated. In fact, physical walls, Water-, and Fire-type Pokemon in general make good checks to take Iron Head and Fire Punch, though most of them are crippled by paralysis. Again, a levitating Dragon-type works perfectly well with this Jirachi. Latias and Latios can set up Calm Mind in front of most of Jirachi's counters, while Dragonite and Salamence can break walls more easily with the paralysis support Jirachi provides. As a special mention, Togekiss also appreciates paralysis support, and can use a strategy of "paraflinching" alongside Jirachi. Defensively, it is immune to Jirachi's Ground-type weakness, while Jirachi resists the Rock- and Ice-type weaknesses of Togekiss. With paralysis provided, Togekiss can more easily sweep with its deceptively dangerous Nasty Plot sets. On a dedicated paralysis team, Thundurus and Whimsicott are generally the best secondary paralysis-inducers because of their Prankster ability. Whimsicott, in particular, saves Jirachi from being decimated by Excadrill while being able to paralyze all types with priority Stun Spore.</p>
[Other Options]
<p>Jirachi has a surplus large number of interesting options to play with, though its more effective strategies have been listed. Drain Punch is an odd option to heal off damage and super effectively hit Steel-types. It should be noted that Drain Punch has been increased to 75 Base Power in the generation shift, so it is now competitively viable in Jirachi's physically-based sets. Energy Ball is an option for special sets; though Grass Knot is more useful as it hits Jirachi’s counters for more damage, as most of them are heavy.</p>
<p>With Drizzle support from Politoed, Jirachi can opt to run Thunder instead of Thunderbolt for the higher Base Power and higher chance to paralyze opponents. With Serene Grace factored in, most opponents switching into Jirachi must be aware of that high chance of paralysis. Also with Drizzle support, Jirachi has its Fire-type weakness halved, and can also run Water Pulse. Factoring in rain, Water Pulse technically has a 90 base power, and with Serene Grace, it has a high chance of inducing confusion, making it an option worth considering for coverage. If you are opting to run Politoed on a team, keep in mind that Jirachi benefits from it marvelously.</p>
<p>Last generation, Jirachi could lure counters and checks and eliminate them by using a mixed set. This mixed set in particular used Iron Head, two elemental punches, and a special move, along with a Naive nature, an Expert Belt, and maximum Speed and Attack. This set could be used to lure and defeat specific threats in the metagame, but is generally weak against the opponent once the special move has been revealed. On this note, Jirachi may choose to utilize a mixed Superachi set as well. With a Naive nature, 120 Attack EVs, Life Orb and Iron Head, Jirachi knocks many counters into the KO range for its special moves. It does not have as much longevity as the original Calm Mind sets due to Life Orb, but it is still an option for surprise. These sets can be used to great value if used with Shell Break Baton Pass Gorebyss, which instantly boosts all of Jirachi's offensive stats, and makes the always-annoying Iron Head even stronger.</p>
<p>Jirachi is also abundant also has many options in the support department. With Cosmic Power, Jirachi can run a purely defensive set with Wish and Toxic as compliments. Keep in mind that Jirachi is vulnerable to Steel-types and Taunt users if Cosmic Power is considered. Jirachi also has access to dual screens, which is perfectly acceptable with U-turn and Jirachi's good defensive typing. Safeguard prevents status, but it is better off left to a dedicated user of stall or defense. Magic Coat is an odd support option that allows Jirachi to bypass attempts to set up hazards or cripple Jirachi with status moves. For field moves, Jirachi also has Gravity and Trick Room. Whereas Trick Room is decent with Jirachi's Wish and U-turn, Gravity is generally considered a negligible gimmick. Stealth Rock may be used on any of Jirachi's other support sets, but Jirachi generally cannot risk moveslot syndrome.</p>
[Checks and Counters]
<p>By virtue of its near-limitless diversity, it is extremely difficult to find a "hard counter" to Jirachi. Due to the unpredictable nature of Jirachi and the potency of all its sets, prediction is normally the first step to defeating it. Arguably, Jirachi's specially-based sets are the most difficult to challenge. While Substitute + Calm Mind makes many weak attackers and Seismic Toss-reliant Pokemon struggle, its more offensive special sets can put a large dent in any team immediately. Counters to these sets differ depending on the combination of moves Jirachi chooses. If Jirachi isn't using Psyshock or the Substitute + Calm Mind set, Blissey and Chansey sponge its special attacks all day. When Skarmory is at full health, it can phaze out Jirachi and survive a Thunderbolt thanks to Sturdy. If Whimsicott catches Jirachi using a support move, Grass Knot, or Thunderbolt, it can use Prankster use priority Encore to lock Jirachi into that move and drain its health with Leech Seed. Additionally, Krookodile, though pretty rare in OU, is immune to the combination of Psychic + Thunderbolt. Speaking of Ground-types, Excadrill and Landorus, two common sweepers on a sandstorm team, can switch into a predicted Thunderbolt, Psychic, or Thunder Wave, and easily OHKO with Earthquake. Finally, Latias and Latios both resist Jirachi's most common special attacks and set up Calm Minds alongside it, using Roar to remove its boosts if possible.</p>
<p>Physically based sets are slightly easier to check. Due to Serene Grace and Iron Head's high chance to flinch, however, any Pokemon that is paralyzed or is slower than Jirachi risks being flinched to death. Rotom-W, Rotom-H, Heatran, and Empoleon are all 4x resistant to Iron Head, and can take most of Jirachi's other attacks comfortably as well. Bulky Water-types also take minimal damage from Iron Head, and most of them can take a ThunderPunch and heal it off. Most physically defensive Steel-types (such as Skarmory) and Ground-types (Hippowdon) also do a good job of sponging physical Jirachi's attacks, though they risk a burn from Fire Punch should Jirachi run it. Ferrothorn can wall any set that lacks Fire Punch and can either set up Spikes or use Leech Seed. Ferrothorn also has the benefit of chipping Jirachi's health away with Iron Barbs. Faster Pokemon risk being paralyzed; however, opponents such as Garchomp, Landorus, and Excadrill can all come in comfortably on Thunder Wave and OHKO with a super effective move.</p>
<p>Despite its versatility, Jirachi does have some very general checks and counters. Heatran can come in on practically any set lacking Hidden Power Ground, and immediately threaten Jirachi with a STAB Fire Blast. Heatran also doesn't mind paralysis too much. Volcarona can also threaten any Jirachi set, as it takes little damage from Jirachi’s common attacks, and can threaten Jirachi with a STAB Fire-type attack. Volcarona does dislike paralysis however, so be sure to scout the set before attempting to check Jirachi. Magnezone, particularly, is a very special counter as it can trap Jirachi in the battlefield using its Magnet Pull ability and swiftly eliminate it with its choice of Thunderbolt or the correct Hidden Power. Most Jirachi sets (except for those running a good super effective Hidden Power and Fire Punch) are rather unprepared for Magnezone. Like Heatran, Magnezone doesn't mind Thunder Wave too much. Therefore, unless Jirachi has built up enough Calm Minds or has a super effective move, Magnezone is forever a thorn in Jirachi's side.</p>
Fixed some strange prose and grammatical errors I missed out on the first time around. Ensure that you make all the changes; there are many.
Changes made, and hopefully minus minor changes, this is (Done).
For Specially Defensive, Thunder and a Sassy nature deserve AC mentions. In the rain, its a good choice for hitting Skarmory, Jellicent, and Slowbro and has more overall power than Body Slam. Yes, you lose the possible paralysis on Garchomp.. but thats ok!