Necrozma-DM [QC 1/3]

[Storm Eagle]

Bullet points are meant to be initial talking points; the paragraphs themselves are built with the bullet points in mind.

[OVERVIEW]

• Necrozma-DM is a highly versatile Pokemon with a slow Speed stat, a great Attack stat, and decent defenses to boot, allowing it to run a myriad of offensive and defensive sets viably. It can serve as a late game setup sweeper, a defensive pivot, an offensive pivot, and a support Pokemon in it's different sets.
• Necrozma-DM shares striking similarities to Solgaleo, as both are Steel and Psychic-types with nearly identical stats. Necrozma-DM is very slightly less bulky than Solgaleo overall as Necrozma-DM has a much lower base HP, but it has higher defenses than Solgaleo. Necrozma-DM is a much better pivot as it can underspeed base 90 Speed Pokemon as well as Zygarde-C, which is something Solgaleo cannot do.
• Necrozma-DM has a considerably higher Attack stat compared to Solgaleo and can force out a much greater number of Pokemon depending on the set. A +6 Attack Necrozma-DM can force out just about anything with it's Belly Drum set, RegenVest Necrozma-DM forces out anything that it walls such as passive Pokemon, and Flash Fire can take on anything that relies on Fire-type moves like V-create from -ates.
• Decent HP and great Defense and Special Defense stats allow it to be on par or greater than most other Steel-types defensively while not having a weakness to Fighting-type moves.
• Extremely weak to Dark-types as they force out Necrozma-DM and can even Pursuit trap it. Despite its added bulk, it has more weaknesses than other Steel-types which is its main downside with its defensive sets. Weaknesses to Ghost and Dark hinder its defensive capabilities against moves like Moongeist Beam and Knock Off. Neutrality to Bug-type moves can be an annoyance at times too. Other Steel-types which can usually perform the same job without as much hassle.
• Low Speed can be a hindrance as Necrozma-DM is more easily revenge killed. It's also prone to Pursuit trapping as a result. The Unburden set don't have much of an issue with this, but the other three sets do.

[SET]
name: BellyBurden
move 1: Belly Drum
move 2: Sunsteel Strike
move 3: Icicle Crash
move 4: Power Trip / Precipice Blades
item: Sitrus Berry
ability: Unburden
nature: Adamant
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 220 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe

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

• Belly Drum on top of its regular effect automatically consumes the Sitrus Berry the same turn which activates Unburden.
• Sunsteel Strike is a powerful Steel-type STAB move that can break even neutral targets at +6. Sunsteel Strike also ignores abilities so Fur Coat and Unaware users cannot wall and Sturdy Shedinja is not a switch-in.
• Icicle Crash and Precipice Blades can be used as an alternative which provides better overall coverage at the cost of handling Imposter worse. Icicle Crash hits bulky Dragon-types extremely hard while Precipice Blades hits opposing Steel-types.
• Earthquake is a reliable Ground-type move but it loses out on a lot of power that Precipice Blades offers, especially against Imposter Chansey and Unaware Steel-types.

Note to QC: Earthquake is intentionally not slashed. I think it's worth a mention, but not enough to slash.

Set Details
========

• Unburden doubles the Speed stat which lets Adamant Necrozma-DM allowing it to reach 506 Speed which lets it outspeed every unboosted Pokemon in the metagame as well as Scarf Imposter.
• Using Belly Drum will raise the Attack stat by 12 and reduce Necrozma-DM's health just enough to eat the Sitrus Berry and activate Unburden.
• Dusk Mane outspeeds every unboosted Pokemon after Unburden including max Speed Deoxys-S by 2 points.
• Necrozma-DM can self-Imposter-proof as running 220 Defense EVs allows for Dusk Mane to OHKO Imposter Chansey with Power Trip at +6 Attack.
• Adamant boosts Attack; Jolly is redundant as Adamant already outspeeds every unboosted Pokemon.
• Sitrus Berry activates at 50% or lower health. Necrozma-DM with 252 HP EVs has an even HP stat which allows it to be exactly 50% after using Belly Drum to immediately eat the Sitrus Berry which then activates Unburden.
• 20 Defense EVs can be used when using Precipice Blades to get a guaranteed OHKO, but hazard damage is sufficient to score the OHKO with Precipice Blades.

Usage Tips
========

• Dusk Mane should only two to sweep in late game to minimize the chances of being checked.
• Scouting for Prankster users such as bulky Dragon-types, bulky Steel-types, and Cresselia is mandatory as Prankster can stop a sweep hard and Necrozma-DM only gets two opportunities to set up at best.
• Also scout for setup control like Spectral Thief or Haze as setting up on passive Pokemon may not be a safe idea unless you explicitly know it doesn't have said moves.
• Avoid setting up if your opponent has any priority which can threaten you. Galvanize Zekrom is especially threatening to this set. Even other -ates may threaten you if you've taken enough chip damage.
• Don't set up with Dark-types active as the risk of Sucker Punch is very real. Don't set up Belly Drum unless you know they don't have Sucker Punch.
• Chip damage from hazards is greatly appreciated especially if Necrozma-DM is running Precipice Blades as Imposter will be less of an issue. After Stealth Rock damage, Precipice Blades is a guaranteed OHKO on Imposter.
• Avoid switching in Necrozma-DM unless you intend on setting up or at the very least forcing something out. Using this Pokemon recklessly can make you lose your setup opportunity.

Team Options
========

• In the rare chance Belly Drum gets stolen by Spectral Thief, Prankster user, or a fast wallbreaker is appreciated. Registeel and Giratina use Prankster, and Mega Mewtwo X and Mega Rayquaza are fast wallbreakers.
• Offensive Dragon-types like Mega Rayquaza and Kyurem-B are appreciated for the main set to cover Dusk Mane's weakness to Giratina and Zygarde-C. They also cover Prankster versions of said Pokemon.
• Additional Steel-types are advised as Dusk Mane has issues with things like Poison Heal Regigigas and -ates. Registeel in specific has higher overall defenses than Necrozma-DM.
• Dusk Mane appreciates having teammates like Mega Mewtwo X or Mega Garchomp that can deal with Steel-type Prankster users.
• Contrary Pokemon like Mega Mewtwo X, Mega Mewtwo Y, or Mega Rayquaza can bait out Prankster users and pressure them so that Necrozma-DM can eventually sweep.
• If you intend on using Imposter, have a wallbreaker like a Contrary Pokemon or another highly offensive Pokemon as your team risks being extremely passive due to a lack of offensive pressure.

[SET]
set: RegenVest
move 1: U-turn
move 2: Sunsteel Strike
move 3: Spectral Thief / Nuzzle
move 4: Rapid Spin / Nuzzle / Core Enforcer
item: Assault Vest
ability: Regenerator
nature: Sassy / Relaxed
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD
ivs: 0 Spe

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

• U-turn is an essential move on any Regenerator set as it provides momentum on an already slow Pokemon.
• Sunsteel Strike is a solid Steel-type STAB move that offers good Base Power with the capability of threatening Sturdy Shedinja. It hits most Pokemon for good base damage which helps prevent it from being passive.
• Spectral Thief can steal boosted stats from the opponent. This move lets Dusk Mane be significantly less passive. Boosts can be stolen from Pokemon that use Belly Drum, Quiver Dance, Shell Smash, and more. This move is very versatile and can be used against many setup Pokemon and as such is a great option for this set.
• Nuzzle can cripple more offensive Pokemon and it goes well with Necrozma-DM's good bulk with the Assault Vest. Necrozma-DM can take hits from plenty of Pokemon and paralyze them in return. Imposter can Nuzzle you back which further lowers your Speed, but you risk being unable to move a third of the time.
• Rapid Spin removes hazards from only your side of the field unlike Defog which removes hazards from both sides of the field. Rapid Spin has significantly higher PP as well. Both of these come at the cost of being spinblocked rather easily, which is an issue for RegenVest Necrozma-DM.
• Core Enforcer is great as Necrozma-DM is very slow letting it underspeed a ton of stuff. Core Enforcer is mainly used for its secondary effect which disables the opponent's ability should Necrozma-DM move after the opponent which lets it threaten Pokemon who rely on their abilities such as Poison Heal Pokemon like Zygarde-C, Mega Mewtwo X, and Giratina.

Set Details
========

• Regenerator restores 33% of Necrozma-DM's health should it switch out. Useful for passively healing without wasting turns using moves like Shore Up and it's the only viable way Assault Vest users can restore HP.
• Assault Vest boosts Special Defense by 1.5x but restricts the use of status moves. Very useful when combined with Regenerator, as all Regenerator needs is U-turn and Necrozma-DM can not only pivot but restore health while doing so.
• Minimum Speed and Sassy Nature let it get the slowest pivot while having the highest Special Defense. This lets it wall most attacks from specially offensive Pokemon provided they don't have super-effective coverage for it.

Usage Tips
========

• Pivot very frequently, Necrozma-DM's slow Speed is its greatest strength. Don't underestimate its ability to provide momentum for the team.
• Because of Necrozma-DM's mediocre defensive typing, it must be wary on what it switches into as it can't take many super-effective hits even with the Assault Vest factored in. Pick your targets carefully.
• Don't try to steal boosts from Contrary or Poison Heal users as the former usually carries V-create while the latter carries Spore, both of which threaten Necrozma-DM.
• Use Nuzzle frequently if you have it equipped. If your opponent tries switching into an already paralyzed Pokemon to tank the Nuzzle, you can instead U-turn into a breaker and put your opponent at a disadvantage.

Team Options
========

• Both formes of Mega Mewtwo as well as Mega Tyranitar are enemies of Necrozma-DM and should have checks or counters prepared. Mega Diancie can check all three reasonably well provided they don't have Dazzling, Imposter is a Pokemon they all have difficulty with, and strong Bug-types like Mega Beedrill can beat Mega Mewtwo Y and Mega Tyranitar while at the very least annoying Mega Mewtwo X.
• Dark-types in general really bother Dusk Mane, PH Xerneas is one example of a Pokemon that can help. Prankster users beat Power Trip sweepers.
• -Ates are an annoyance as they often carry coverage which threatens Necrozma-DM. Be very cautious of V-create from Mega Diancie and Mega Rayquaza in specific. Soundproof Pokemon like Mega Slowbro, Mega Swampert, or Zygarde-C can usually counter these -ates and they can serve as an Imposter-proof to another offensive Pokemon you may have.
• Having a teammate with Anchor Shot can make Imposter less of a nuisance as your opponent may try to capitalize off your Necrozma-DM's Regenerator with their Imposter by switching in then pivoting or immediately switching out. Having self-Imposter-proof teammates also helps as you will be less worried about Imposter abusing Regenerator.
• Bring a solid Imposter-proof for Necrozma-DM if you use Nuzzle. Red Orb Groudon and Mega Garchomp can both serve as suitable Ground-types to tank Nuzzle and hit back hard with Ground-type STAB or you can use a Poison Heal Pokemon other than Xerneas to Imposter-proof Necrozma-DM with Nuzzle.
• Dusk Mane is best partnered with glass cannons as Dusk Mane's low base 77 Speed allows it to underspeed base 90s as well as Zygarde-C.
• Primal Kyogre serves to be a Fire-type resist and takes little damage from Moongeist Beam from most Pokemon.

[SET]
name: Flash Fire
move 1: Stealth Rock / Spikes / Will-o-Wisp / Topsy-Turvy
move 2: Anchor Shot / Sunsteel Strike
move 3: Core Enforcer / Entrainment / U-turn / Topsy-Turvy
move 4: Shore Up
item: Safety Goggles
ability: Flash Fire
nature: Sassy
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD
ivs: 0 Spe

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

• This set is great for setting up hazards and as such it can set up Stealth Rock on quite a few targets. This is great when faced with targets such as Shedinja who tend to dislike hazards. Stealth Rock hits all Pokemon and factors in weaknesses and resists.
• Spikes is another alternative, and although it takes three turns to set up a full stack of Spikes, it can do more damage than Stealth Rock at 3 stacks and it doesn't factor in resists. However, due to it taking more turns to set up fully, it can also be frequently cleared before getting a full stack.
• Will-o-Wisp can be used instead of hazards as it can burn targets while still threatening a lot of targets. Necrozma-DM itself is immune to Will-o-Wisp because of Flash Fire so it doesn't need to worry about Magic Bounce or Imposter.
• Anchor Shot is a Steel-type move with decent Base Power with good PP but most importantly it can trap the opponent. Imposter only has 5 PP in each move so trapping it can let Necrozma-DM outstall Imposter.
• Sunsteel Strike is more powerful and lets Necrozma-DM be less passive during the battle, but this comes at the cost of being unable to check Imposter, especially as Imposter gets free turns to set up hazards.
• Core Enforcer is one of it's only saving graces in that Solgaleo is too fast to use it for many targets. It disables the target's ability should Necrozma-DM move last, which is helpful against targets such as Poison Heal users like Giratina, Zygarde-C, and Diancie.
• Entrainment can be used instead for targets with negative priority moves, but Core Enforcer is usually better as it makes Necrozma-DM less passive. Entrainment is a Status move which unlike Core Enforcer this move hits Fairy-types which allows Necrozma-DM to have an easier time beating Poison Heal Xerneas.
• U-turn can be used to pivot, but it should only be used with Sunsteel Strike as Necrozma-DM cannot trap Imposter with U-turn and Anchor Shot.
• Topsy-Turvy can invert stat boosts which gives it a better time against sweepers such as Dazzling users, Fairy-type sweepers, and Contrary users lacking coverage, but it has a worse time checking PH Regigigas.
• Shore Up is used to restore health.

Set Details
========

• Flash Fire is only used for the Fire-type immunity as it patches up a weakness Necrozma-DM has.
• Safety Goggles blocks the use of powder moves and weather damage. Its main use is in blocking Spore which is a powder move.
• Sassy to boost Special Defense while reducing Speed for minimum Speed. It works well when Necrozma-DM is often facing special attackers like Contrary Dragon-types that lack coverage for Flash Fire Necrozma-DM. Many 2HKOes from these Contrary users can turn into 3HKOes.

Usage Tips
========

• Use the element of surprise to try and beat Imposter. If your opponent tries to switch in Imposter to scout you frequently, you can punish them with Anchor Shot and stall them out.
• Try and wait a little while before immediately setting up Stealth Rocks to scout for Magic Bouncers. You can also trap a Pokemon without Magic Bounce then set up Stealth Rock.
• If using Will-o-Wisp, use it frequently as offensive Pokemon are crippled and defensive Pokemon get constant chip damage.
• This set checks Poison Heal Xerneas and can force out Poison Heal Regigigas once.
• With Topsy-Turvy, it can force out Triage users, but be cautious of coverage such as Earth Power and Moongeist Beam.
• Scout most special attackers for Moongeist Beam by double switching. Moongeist Beam is a prominent threat to this set.

Team Options
========

• Don't use Necrozma-DM as your main and only Regigigas check. It can only switch in once to Regigigas.
• Necrozma-DM can easily imposter-proof Mega Diancie and other Fairy-types so they can increase the value of Necrozma-DM on the team. Dragon-types like Mega Rayquaza can also work.
• Dusk Mane should not be the only PH Regigigas check. Giratina, Zygarde-C, and Magic Bounce Mega Tyranitar can all very easily switch into PH Regigigas.
• Dark-type answers are even more important now. Mega Diancie also helps for this purpose, beating most Mega Tyranitar sets barring DazzleSmash. Mega Beedrill has extremely strong Bug-type STAB that nails most Dark-types and can be a good pivot for Necrozma-DM. Mega Mewtwo X has one of the strongest Attack stats and good enough bulk to fend off most Dark-types fairly easily.
• Still doesn't beat Mega Mewtwo X. Dusk Mane needs checks to it. Mega Mewtwo Y outspeeds and can very easily threaten with the right moves. Mega Aerodactyl also outspeeds and has a type advantage against Mega Mewtwo X and Necrozma-DM can also imposter-proof it. Bulky Psychic-types like Cresselia or Soundproof Mega Slowbro can wall Mega Mewtwo X.
• Ghost-type resists like Mega Tyranitar, Poison Heal Regigigas, and Mega Gyarados for Moongeist Beam users can help. Special walls such as Primal Kyogre or Yveltal also help ease the pain of Moongeist Beam.
• Imposter Chansey can help scout for moves, most notably Moongeist Beam from the setup sweepers that Necrozma-DM would normally try to check. Imposter can also serve as a fallback for setup sweepers that Necrozma-DM fails to check if it has a Choice Scarf.

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

• An offensive set with Ultranecrozium Z can be used with the idea of Ultra Bursting to self-Imposter-proof after setting up a Shell Smash, but Ultra Necrozma is particularly easy to revenge kill with most priority moves especially when utilizing Simple and Prankster users can stop a sweep outright and do a sizeable chunk of damage with U-turn especially if Ultra Necrozma sets up again in the same turn. Belly Drum usually performs this set better because it's significantly stronger and allows for better coverage. Ultranecrozium-Z sets usually opt for Power Trip for coverage against Imposter, Sunsteel Strike for pre-Ultra Burst coverage or Close Combat for general coverage, and Photon Geyser for Light That Burns The Sky.
• Necrozma-DM has access to Searing Sunraze Smash with the Solganium Z item, but Necrozma-DM generally prefers the items it currently has on it's offensive sets and it's defensive sets don't have much room for different items.
• A variation of the RegenVest set called RegenBand exists that utilizes the Choice Band to get a balance between recovery and power. RegenBand can serve as a strong pivot that can easily whittle down the opponent over time. The moveset of RegenBand prioritizes coverage like V-create and Ice Hammer over support moves like Nuzzle and Spectral Thief.
• The Belly Drum and RegenBand sets can opt to run Photon Geyser but the move provides little coverage for the moveslot it takes up.
• Prankster is an option for a set, but Necrozma-DM is outperformed by many other Steel-types as a Prankster user. Registeel doesn't have the Ghost- and Dark-type weaknesses that Necrozma-DM does with far more bulk in general. Aegislash has the same weaknesses as Necrozma-DM but comes with a Fighting-type move immunity. Celesteela's secondary typing actually brings something to the table with the Ground-type move immunity.
• Fur Coat is an option that allows Necrozma-DM to beat Mega Mewtwo X, Mega Diancie, and Mega Rayquaza, but it's quite easy to wear down over the course of the battle. Fur Coat runs recovery, Anchor Shot, Spectral Thief, and another support move such as Will-o-Wisp.

Checks and Counters
========

• Dark-types: These can come in freely on most of Necrozma-DM's sets and threaten Necrozma-DM. Choice Band Dark-types such as Mega Gyarados and Mega Tyranitar frequently have Pursuit to Pursuit trap Necrozma-DM's defense sets and they also frequently have Sucker Punch to beat the offensive sets, namely BellyBurden. Yveltal can also wall most attacks fairly easily from Necrozma-DM except for the BellyBurden set.
• Ghost-type coverage: Ghost-type coverage is extremely common in the form of Moongeist Beam and Spectral Thief. Specially offensive Pokemon carry Moongeist Beam to deal with Sturdy Shedinja and Unaware users in particular while most defensive Pokemon carry Spectral Thief to hinder setup sweepers.
• Ground-types: Mega Garchomp and especially Red Orb Groudon can both massively threaten Necrozma-DM. Mega Garchomp can easily OHKO Necrozma-DM with just Thousand Arrows while Red Orb Groudon can very easily tank attacks with its truly amazing 160 physical Defense and OHKO with both of its STABs. Both of them can get the opportunity to set up Stealth Rock on Necrozma-DM as they both force it out.
• Mega Mewtwo X: Mega Mewtwo X's Fighting-type moves make Necrozma-DM crumble regardless of the set Mega Mewtwo X runs as Close Combat has an impressive 120 Base Power, Low Kick has the full 120 Base Power against Necrozma-DM, and Technician Storm Throw has a higher Base Power than both of the former moves.
• Mega Gengar: Even though Mega Gengar cannot switch in to Necrozma-DM, it can easily OHKO Necrozma-DM with its Ghost-type coverage and Focus Sash sets can even afford to set up on Necrozma-DM.
• Defensive Walls: While Necrozma-DM walls a lot of things, it can also be walled back fairly easily, and its weakness to Ghost-type moves leaves it at a disadvantage against walls carrying Spectral Thief. While it has some leeway against walls that rely on their abilities with Sunsteel Strike, there are plenty of walls like Water-types such as Mega Slowbro and Mega Swampert can afford to switch into Necrozma-DM regardless of Sunsteel Strike.

[CREDITS]
Written by: [[Storm Eagle, 211002]]
Quality checked by: [[Gurpreet Patel (Sent you a Friend Request), 233142], [GL Volkner, 330455], []]
Grammar checked by: [[], []]

 

[Storm Eagle]

Ready to be QCed. I'd appreciate if QC would consider letting the RegenBand set stay despite not being in the SetPedia as I wouldn't have added it if I didn't genuinely believe it was equally viable as the other sets. Also, it's a Motherlove set, not something that was theorymonned by me. I've used it more than the other sets and have had just as much success if not more.

 

[SuperSkylake]

You should probably move your notes into a section with a hide tag, because I"m not sure which part of the analysis you want to actually be qced and it doesn't follow the bullet point analysis format.

 

[Storm Eagle]

You should probably move your notes into a section with a hide tag, because I"m not sure which part of the analysis you want to actually be qced and it doesn't follow the bullet point analysis format.

Bullet points are the talking points I intended to make while the paragraphs themselves are written with the intent of being QCd.

 

[xapx]

Bullet points are the talking points I intended to make while the paragraphs themselves are written with the intent of being QCd.

But we start the first two QCs with bullet point?

Analysis Thread Tags:

• [Quality Control] --- This is the most important stage of the analysis. Your analysis must be in bullet points, following the analysis format linked at the beginning of a post, and must not be written out completely. Please put the tag [QC: 0/3] in your thread title. For example, Lopunny [QC: 1/3] will indicate to the QC team that you have received one QC check. As indicated in this thread, you must have 3 QC checks. Unlike other tiers, this is how OM C&C will be run. You do not begin writing the analysis (from bullet points) until receiving the second check on your analysis. You do not receive GP before the third check. You will not receive the third check unless your analysis is written.

 

[Storm Eagle]

But we start the first two QCs with bullet point?

While I appreciate your comment, I don't need reminded of the rules. I frequently check the stickied threads and GP standards to try and make things easier for QC and GP. I do agree in that I've been poor in showing that the work I have done so far is currently an example and is subject to change. I've made that edit in response to your post, so thank you for that. I'm not removing anything unless a moderator, QC member, or GP member explicitly asks so, though.

I've made some additional minor tweaks to my post before it gets the first QC.

 

[Ren]

Bullet points are meant to be initial talking points; the paragraphs themselves are built with the bullet points in mind.

[OVERVIEW]

• Describe the Pokemon and it's role as a versatile Steel-type with a unique typing.
• Obligatory comparison to Solgaleo. It should be clearly explained why someone would want to use Necrozma Dusk Mane over Solgaleo, considering their striking similarities. The last thing I want is for readers to be confused as to which Pokemon they should use.
• Talk about the downsides, namely it's many weaknesses to common Pokemon.

example paragraph

Necrozma-DM is a highly versatile Pokemon with a slow Speed stat, a great Attack stat, and decent defenses to boot, allowing it to run a myriad of offensive and defensive sets viably. It can serve as a late game setup sweeper, a defensive pivot, an offensive pivot, and a support Pokemon in it's different sets. Necrozma-DM shares striking similarities to Solgaleo, as both are Steel and Psychic-types with nearly identical stats. Necrozma-DM is very slightly less bulky than Solgaleo overall as Necrozma-DM has a much lower base HP, but it has higher defenses than Solgaleo. Necrozma-DM's appeal is it's very slow base Speed, allowing it to underspeed base 90 Speed Pokemon and even Zygarde-C, which Solgaleo is incapable of doing. Necrozma-DM also has a moderately higher Attack stat than Solgaleo. These two factors can make Necrozma-DM a more desirable choice for players looking to have a slow pivot as well as an offensive Steel-type. Due to its unique typing, it can wall Psychic-type attacks very well, but it also has a weakness to Ghost- and Dark-type attacks which other Steel-types lack, which is an issue for it due to moves like Moongeist Beam and Spectral Thief being common coverage. Dark-types like Yveltal and Mega Tyranitar give it a troublesome time and Necrozma-DM often finds itself being forced out by these Pokemon. It's slow Speed is both a positive and a negative, as it's often outsped by more threats such as Mega Garchomp, Mega Gyarados, and Hoopa-Unbound than other offensive Steel-types. Finally, as useful of a pivot as it can be, it finds itself being weak to Pursuit trapping, which means it needs teammates that can deal with the Dark-types that threaten it. Despite all of this, it can be an effective Pokemon that is somewhat unpredictable in the right hands.

[SET]

• I'll add slashes for moves later. I'm using the most basic set for the time being.
• An offensive set should be first. Dusk Mane stands out from Solgaleo due to it's higher Attack stat.
• BellyBurden is the most practical offensive set.
• 220 Defense EVs is intentional.

name: BellyBurden
move 1: Belly Drum
move 2: Sunsteel Strike
move 3: Photon Geyser / Icicle Crash
move 4: Power Trip / Precipice Blades
item: Sitrus Berry
ability: Unburden
nature: Adamant
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 220 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe

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

• Explain how Belly Drum lowers health just enough to eat the Sitrus Berry for double Speed and quadruple Attack in a single turn.
• Note that Dusk Mane is less susceptible to Spectral Thief due to it's low Speed.
• Mention that 220 Defense EVs allow for Dusk Mane to OHKO Imposter Chansey with Power Trip at +6. Note it is a self-imposterproof Pokemon.
• Provide alternative set for better overall coverage at the cost of handling Imposter worse.

example paragraph

This set is a late-game sweeper which utilizes Belly Drum and the combo of Sitrus Berry and Unburden to become massively threatening in just one turn. Belly Drum halves the user's HP and grants +12 Attack in one turn, which on this set eats the Sitrus Berry and activates Unburden. Sunsteel Strike is the premier Steel-type STAB move as it has a solid 100 Base Power and can ignore abilities, allowing it to beat Pokemon such as Sturdy Shedinja, Fur Coat Chansey, Unaware Yveltal, and more. Photon Geyser is nearly identical to Sunsteel Strike, being a 100 Base Power Psychic-type move that ignores abilities as well. It can hit more Pokemon that wall Sunsteel Strike, especially with their abilities, such as Primal Kyogre or Mega Blaziken. Power Trip is 140 Base Power at +6 Attack and is one of the only moves that can OHKO Imposter Chansey, but it's only 20 Base Power otherwise, leaving it vulnerable to Prankster users. An alternative set can be used with Icicle Crash and Precipice Blades to offer better overall coverage against the meta at the trade of handling Imposter Chansey worse. Icicle Crash hits various Dragon-types and doesn't come with the drawback of reducing Speed like Ice Hammer does. Precipice Blades does good damage against Imposter Chansey and can OHKO other Imposter users such as Blissey, but is inaccurate and requires Stealth Rock damage to OHKO Imposter Chansey. Earthquake can be used instead, but even Stealth Rock damage leaves a minimal chance of knocking out Imposter Chansey which means it must have some chip damage beforehand.

Set Details
========

• No variation in the ability or item. Just describe the effects of Sitrus Berry and Unburden.
• Explain why there's no variation.

example paragraph

Belly Drum halves the user's HP, leaving it exactly 50% if the user has an even HP stat. Necrozma-DM does not need special investment as 252 HP already allows it to have an even HP stat. Sitrus Berry is an item which activates when the user has 50% or lower HP, which means Belly Drum causes the Sitrus Berry to activate immediately upon use. Unburden doubles the user's Speed stat upon consuming its held item. Unburden allows Necrozma-DM to outspeed everything that's unboosted in the tier including max Speed Deoxys-S. If Unburden is already activated, Imposter will not copy its effect upon switching in and must instead consume its own item in order to activate Unburden, making the ability very desirable for this set. The combination of Belly Drum, Sitrus Berry, and Unburden allow for Necrozma-DM to get +6 Attack and doubled Speed in one turn. There isn't any variation in the items or abilities of this set as pinch berries like the Mago Berry are unreliable due to not activating at 50% HP while Unburden is required for a Belly Drum sweep. 220 Defense EVs is used to guarantee the OHKO for Power Trip on Imposter Chansey at +6 Attack. 252 Defense EVs can be used instead if not using Power Trip. 20 Defense EVs allow for Necrozma-DM to OHKO Imposter Chansey with Precipice Blades, but it's highly recommended to use Stealth Rock to guarantee the OHKO instead.

Usage Tips
========

• Explain how Dusk Mane should only be used late game.
• Scouting for Prankster is obligatory.
• Chip damage from hazards is greatly appreciated.

example paragraph

BellyBurden users in general should not be used until late-game and Necrozma-DM is not an exception. Opposing Pokemon with Prankster are a hard stop to this set and should be scouted for before getting the opportunity to check Necrozma-DM. Wait until late-game to scout the abilities of your opponent's Pokemon so that you can make sure they don't have a Prankster user and that if they do, you can knock it out before trying to sweep with Dusk Mane. Make sure you also scout for Spectral Thief users, so that you can avoid setting up Belly Drum only to have the boosts immediately stolen. Setting up hazards is very helpful for Necrozma-DM in general as it weakens targets just enough that it has an easier time breaking past would-be checks such as Focus Sash DazzleSmash users like Mega Tyranitar or Mega Mewtwo X. Teammates such as RegenVest Primal Kyogre who can pivot into Necrozma-DM with U-turn are appreciated, especially as Necrozma-DM wants to consistently be at or near full health for the Belly Drum. Should an attempted sweep fail, even if Necrozma-DM gets another opportunity to Belly Drum due to Sitrus Berry it would be unable to activate Unburden again, so keep this in mind when setting up the first time.

Team Options
========

• In the rare chance Belly Drum gets stolen by Spectral Thief, an Imposter, Prankster user, or a fast wallbreaker is appreciated.
• Offensive Dragon-types are appreciated for the main set to cover Dusk Mane's weakness to Giratina and Zygarde-C. They also cover Prankster versions of said Pokemon.
• Additional Steel-types advised as Dusk Mane is not a defensive Steel-type.
• Dusk Mane appreciates having teammates like Mega Mewtwo X or Mega Garchomp that can deal with Steel-type Prankster users.

example paragraph

Spectral Thief is an ever present threat in Balanced Hackmons, and Necrozma-DM needs to be constantly wary. Should Necrozma-DM get its Belly Drum boost stolen, you should have teammates that can handle the situation especially if the Pokemon Necrozma-DM is facing isn't passive. Fast wallbreakers can force out passive Pokemon that stole the boost. Usually offensive Pokemon won't live attacks from Necrozma-DM at +6 unless they are using a Focus Sash, so -ates can pick them off with priority or you can also use a fast wallbreaker like Mega Mewtwo Y. Contrary users can bait out Prankster users which are commonly Steel- or Dark-type and Contrary users can hit them super-effectively with Superpower, Overheat, or Fleur Cannon respectively. Mega Mewtwo X and Mega Garchomp can deal with most Steel-types that may wall BellyBurden, especially if Necrozma-DM doesn't run Precipice Blades. Since this Necrozma-DM set is not defensive nor is it used until late-game, another Steel-type is advised as Necrozma-DM can't check most -ates with this set. Imposter isn't a very good teammate to use with this set as your team will have very little offensive pressure due to BellyBurden being a late-game sweeper.

[SET]

• Note that this set performs similarly to Solgaleo, with slower Speed in trade for marginally less bulk.
• Slower speed allows it to get U-turns off before base 90s do, which is a huge plus.
• Unlike Solgaleo, the extra 20 base Attack allows it to hit targets somewhat harder.

set: RegenVest
move 1: U-turn
move 2: Sunsteel Strike
move 3: Spectral Thief
move 4: Rapid Spin / Nuzzle / Core Enforcer
item: Assault Vest
ability: Regenerator
nature: Sassy
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD
ivs: 0 Spe

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

• Explain how U-turn lets Dusk Mane be an excellent slow pivot.
• Note how RegenVest due to being a predominantly defensive set, has a ton of options to choose from.
• Mention how RegenVests are fantastic at hazard removal.

example paragraph

RegenVest helps wall attacks better while being a solid pivot. Solgaleo has an identical RegenVest set, but Necrozma-DM is much slower allowing it to gain momentum on more things by pivoting. U-turn strikes the target and switches out, allowing for Necrozma-DM to gain momentum by switching to a check of the opponent's Pokemon. Sunsteel Strike is a decently powerful Steel-type STAB move for this set, but it isn't spammable due to 8 PP. Photon Geyser can be used instead but Dark-types have a much easier time checking you. Spectral Thief can be used to steal boosts from Pokemon trying to set up with moves like Quiver Dance. Rapid Spin allows for Necrozma-DM to be effective at hazard removal and is standard on RegenVest sets. Nuzzle can be used to spread paralysis to make opposing Pokemon easier to check. Core Enforcer is useful with Necrozma-DM's naturally low Base Speed as it can disable the opponent's ability if Necrozma-DM underspeeds the target.

Set Details
========

• No real variation in the item or ability. Much of the variation comes from the moves.

example paragraph

Regenerator restores 1/3 of Necrozma-DM's health every time it switches out. Assault Vest helps it wall special attacks better which goes well with Regenerator and U-turn. Minimum Speed IVs and a Sassy nature let Necrozma-DM be as slow as possible to underspeed the most Pokemon with U-turn and Core Enforcer.

Usage Tips
========

• Abuse Dusk Mane's slow speed as much as humanely possible. Pivoting is it's strongsuit compared to Solgaleo.
• Dusk Mane should pick it's targets and switchins carefully as it's defensive typing is particularly mediocre.

example paragraph

Use U-turn liberally as one of the main appeals of RegenVest Necrozma-DM is it's ability to be a slow pivot. Gaining momentum is one of the primary reasons to use RegenVests in general. However, Necrozma-DM should pick its targets wisely as despite its added bulk with the Assault Vest, it still carries a weakness to Ghost- and Dark-type attacks and Pursuit trapping can still threaten it. Necrozma-DM can try to steal boosts with Spectral Thief when possible, but it must be wary of V-create from Contrary users and Spore from Poison Healers, as it cannot take strong attacks or status well. When using Nuzzle, make sure to use it frequently whenever you are not threatened in the current scenario as even passive Pokemon like Giratina dislike being paralyzed and offensive Pokemon will think twice about switching into Necrozma-DM. Avoid using Core Enforcer on Poison Heal Pokemon as they threaten you with Spore and Knock Off.

Team Options
========

• Both formes of Mega Mewtwo as well as Mega Tyranitar enemies of Dusk Mane. Checks or counters to these are obligatory.
• Dark-types in general really bother Dusk Mane, PH Xerneas is one example of a Pokemon that can help. Prankster users beat Power Trip sweepers.
• Dusk Mane is best partnered with glass cannons as Dusk Mane's low base 77 Speed allows it to underspeed base 90s as well as Zygarde-C.
• Primal Kyogre serves to be a Fire-type resist and takes little damage from Moongeist Beam from most Pokemon.

example paragraph

Anything that can beat Dark-types such as Mega Mewtwo X, Mega Diancie, and Poison Heal Xerneas are friends of Necrozma-DM. Necrozma-DM is particularly threatened by the likes of both of Mewtwo's Mega Evolutions, so checks to those are mandatory. Mega Mewtwo X is checked by Mega Slowbro, Zygarde-C, and Giratina. Giratina can Imposter-proof Mega Mewtwo X as a teammate while Mega Slowbro can Imposter-proof both Mega Mewtwo X and Mega Diancie allowing for team cohesion. Mega Mewtwo Y is more difficult to check due to its insanely high Speed stat, but it's checked by -ates, Choice Band Dark-types with Sucker Punch, and faster Pokemon like Mega Beedrill, Pheromosa, and Mega Aerodactyl. If using Nuzzle, slower wallbreakers like Mega Garchomp, Mega Tyranitar, and Xurkitree work better as they don't have to worry as much about being outsped. A Poison Heal teammate should Necrozma-DM run Nuzzle as it's the most practical way to Imposter-proof Necrozma-DM. Poison Heal Primal Kyogre can serve as a particularly good teammate for Necrozma-DM as it not only resists Fire-type moves, but it's naturally high Special Defense allows it to take minimal damage from Moongeist Beam from most Pokemon. As Necrozma-DM cannot check opposing Poison Heal Pokemon even with Core Enforcer because of Spore, so a teammate with Magic Bounce or Safety Goggles is recommended.

[SET]

• Explain how this set has higher durability than the BellyBurden set without sacrificing it's offensive potential.
• Not comparable to RegenVest in any way! RegenVest always runs a different item, nature, and moves. Only the ability itself is similar. Do mention how it hits harder than RegenVest, though.
• Note that this set can be more active in battle since it doesn't have to be used in late-game.
• QC: I'd like to ask you to consider letting this set stay here rather than being an OO or removed from this analysis. I've extensively used this set and it's just as good as the other sets. I've asked it to be added to the SetPedia and it may be added soon. This set is originally from Motherlove, so it's not a theorymon. It actually works well in the meta as of currently so please reconsider your thoughts on this.

name: RegenBand
move 1: U-turn
move 2: Sunsteel Strike / Photon Geyser
move 3: V-create / Precipice Blades / Close Combat
move 4: Ice Hammer
item: Choice Band
ability: Regenerator
nature: Brave
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD
ivs: 0 Spe

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

• Explain each move choice and what targets it can hit.
• Note the importance of U-turn on a choiced set.
• Mention minimum Speed with a Brave Nature being a niche option.

example paragraph

As an offensive Regenerator variant, Necrozma-DM can be aggressive at any point in the match unlike the BellyBurden set while also having the recovery of the RegenVest set. Despite having Regenerator as well, this set performs very differently than the RegenVest set. U-turn is an obligatory move on choice users, and is even more important on a Regenerator Pokemon. Sunsteel Strike is a great 100 Base Power STAB move that ignores abilities allowing it to beat Sturdy Shedinja and deal big damage to Pokemon with Fur Coat. Photon Geyser is the same as Sunsteel Strike except it's Psychic-type, so it hits different targets. V-Create hits for absurd damage against opposing Steel-types and Imposter, but it's drawback keeps it from being spammable. Precipice Blades doesn't reduce your stats and can hit Flash Fire Steel-types, but is far weaker and is inaccurate. Close Combat hits not only Steel-types super-effectively but also Dark-types which is useful when running Photon Geyser. Ice Hammer is capable of 2HKOing every Dragon-type in the tier at worst and can pin down Flying-types such as Mega Rayquaza and Mega Aerodactyl.

Set Details
========

• No real variation on this set either. Just explain the basics.

example paragraph

Regenerator restores 1/3 of Necrozma-DM's health every time it switches out. Choice Band significantly increases Necrozma-DM's attack power and allows it to put offensive pressure on the opponent throughout the match with the aid of Regenerator. Brave and minimum Speed investment allow it to be a very slow pivot, but if that's not appealing for this set, you can opt to run Adamant with max Speed instead.

Usage Tips
========

• Recommend frequent pivoting.
• Insist on not wasting Sunsteel Strike PP due to it being the only STAB move.
• Do not use V-Create on Imposter switch-ins.

example paragraph

Pivot frequently to make good use out of Necrozma-DM as even it's U-turns are very strong due to its Choice Band. As RegenBand Necrozma-DM only runs one STAB move at a time, both of which have 8 PP, it's best not to waste PP for these moves unless you are certain you can deal significant damage. If you predict an Imposter user is about to switch in, use U-turn to pivot to an Imposter-proof instead of using V-create as V-create will fail to OHKO Imposter Chansey or Imposter Blissey. Bring Necrozma-DM into anything that doesn't have U-turn and won't do any significant damage to it, as RegenBand can take a decent amount of damage and deal much more back.

Team Options
========

• Recommend Primal Kyogre. RegenVest variants can imposter-proof it.
• Prankster users can get momentum with Parting Shot against Imposters who use U-turn against you.
• Insist on bringing a check or counter to both Mega Mewtwos.
• Use fast wallbreakers with it to gain momentum with the strong U-turns.
• Pursuit trapper.

example paragraph

Dual Regenerator cores are very effective, so RegenVest Primal Kyogre can be a good teammate that can also Imposter-proof it if it's not running Photon Geyser. Pursuit trappers can also help Imposter-proof this set and can prevent Imposter users from abusing your Regenerator to stay alive, but you need to be wary about having multiple choice item users. Prankster Pokemon can get momentum with increased priority Parting Shot should Imposter users pivot themselves, and they can also utilize Strength Sap in an effort to Imposter-proof Necrozma-DM defensively. Both Mega Evolutions of Mewtwo are a problem and RegenBand Necrozma-DM can't handle them, so teammates such as strong Dark-types, -ates, and fast Pokemon like Mega Beedrill, Pheromosa, and Mega Aerodactyl can check Mega Mewtwo Y, while Giratina, Zygarde-C, and Mega Slowbro can check Mega Mewtwo X. Fast Pokemon in general appreciate RegenBand Necrozma-DM as U-turn is often strong enough to provide just enough damage to put many Pokemon into knockout range for them while also safely switching in.

[SET]

• Less viable than the other sets. Considering making this an OO. Solgaleo completely outclasses it in every way.
• Hard to justify using without U-turn and minimum Speed.
• Serves to be an exclusively supporting Pokemon. Uses weak Attacks and status moves, further giving the incentive to use Solgaleo over it.
• Can beat Imposter easily and is good at setting up Stealth Rock.
• If it's not obvious, this should probably be an OO and you should use Solgaleo instead.

name: Flash Fire
move 1: Stealth Rock / Spikes
move 2: Anchor Shot / Sunsteel Strike
move 3: Core Enforcer / Entrainment / U-turn
move 4: Shore Up
item: Safety Goggles
ability: Flash Fire
nature: Sassy
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD
ivs: 0 Spe

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

• Note how Anchor Shot can trap Imposter which in turn ends up Struggling.
• Also note how SR lets Dusk Mane make Shedinja much less threatening.
• Core Enforcer is one of it's only saving graces in that Solgaleo is too fast to use it for many targets.

example paragraph

This set is slightly harder to justify using over Flash Fire Solgaleo as Necrozma-DM's great Attack stat is underutilized for this set, but Necrozma-DM still has a lower base Speed stat which assists it when using Core Enforcer or U-turn. Flash Fire Necrozma-DM supports the team by setting up Stealth Rock or Spikes. Stealth Rock can hit Flying-types and factors in weaknesses to Rock, while Spikes can be used more than one time. Anchor Shot is an alternative Steel-type STAB that deals damage and traps opponents and can also let Necrozma-DM self-Imposter-proof. Sunsteel Strike is a solid Steel-type STAB move with a good Base Power to boot. Core Enforcer disables the opponent's ability should Necrozma-DM move last, which is useful for disabling Magic Bounce on Giratina and Zygarde-C so that it can set up Stealth Rock or (more) Spikes and it also hits them super-effectively. Entrainment is a status move and doesn't do any damage unlike Core Enforcer, but Entrainment can hit Fairy-types. U-turn is a move which allows for Necrozma-DM to pivot out and gain momentum, but U-turn should not be used with Anchor Shot under any circumstances as Necrozma-DM will no longer self-Imposter-proof. Topsy-Turvy can be used in the third slot to discourage opponents from setting up on Necrozma-DM. Shore Up restores health and keeps Necrozma-DM active throughout the match.

Set Details
========

• While the ability doesn't change, Safety Goggles can probably be substituted for something else like Leftovers.

example paragraph

Flash Fire gives immunity to Fire-type moves and boosts the power of Fire-type moves if hit by one, but in Balanced Hackmons Steel-types are strictly used for the former. Safety Goggles gives immunity to powder moves and residual weather damage, but as Necrozma-DM is already immune to Sandstorm damage, the only weather damage Necrozma-DM is against Hail, but most importantly Necrozma-DM is immune to Spore with Safety Goggles which allows it to check Pokemon like Poison Heal Xerneas. Minimum Speed Sassy is used for slow pivoting or for Core Enforcer's secondary effect, but you can go for Relaxed if you want extra Defense instead.

Usage Tips
========

• Use the element of surprise to try and beat Imposter. If your opponent tries to switch in Imposter to scout you frequently, you can punish them with Anchor Shot and stall them out.
• Try and wait a little while before immediately setting up Stealth Rocks to avoid Magic Bouncers.
• This set counters Poison Heal Xerneas and can force out Poison Heal Regigigas once.
• With Topsy-Turvy, it can force out Triage users.
• Scout most special attackers for Moongeist Beam by double switching.

example paragraph

Don't immediately set up hazards as usually the opponent will choose to hard switch a wall into Necrozma-DM and you risk your hazards being bounced back if the wall has Magic Bounce. Scout for Magic Bounce users before setting up hazards. If you're running Anchor Shot and your opponent likes to scout with Imposter, use Anchor Shot if you predict your opponent will switch in Imposter. Always use Anchor Shot the moment Imposter switches in to try and trap them. You can check Poison Healers with Core Enforcer while Fairy-type Poison Healers are threatened by your Steel-type STAB move of choice, but you must be extremely wary of Knock Off as if your Safety Goggles are removed, they can put you to sleep with Spore. If you choose to run Topsy-Turvy, you can also check Triage users and various other setup sweepers that don't utilize Tail Glow, but you must be wary of Moongeist Beam as that can threaten Necrozma-DM.

Team Options
========

• Using a Pokemon such as Mega Diancie with it to imposter-proof both another Pokemon (in this case, Mega Diancie) and itself can increase the value of Flash Fire Dusk Mane for the team.
• Dusk Mane should not be the only PH Regigigas check. Griseous Orb Giratina with either Magic Bounce or Misty Terrain can help.
• Dark-type answers are even more important now. Flash Fire Dusk Mane absolutely requires answers to Dark-types like Mega Tyranitar. Mega Diancie also helps for this purpose, beating most Mega Tyranitar sets barring DazzleSmash.
• Still doesn't beat Mega Mewtwo X. Dusk Mane needs checks to it.
• Ghost-type resists for Moongeist Beam users can help. RegenVests also help ease the pain of Moongeist Beam.

example paragraph

It's a good idea to use Necrozma-DM as an Imposter-proof for another Pokemon such as Mega Diancie, Sheer Force Kyurem-W, or Mega Aerodactyl as that can help make Necrozma-DM more valuable for the team. Even though Flash Fire Necrozma-DM is a great check to many Poison Heal users, PH Regigigas is a problematic user in general as it can Knock Off the Safety Goggles of Necrozma-DM and put it to sleep the following turn, so it's best to have an additional check to PH Regigigas in general like Griseous Orb Giratina, Unaware/Fur Coat users, or offensive Safety Goggles users. Due to Flash Fire Necrozma-DM's passiveness, Dark-types are an even bigger threat to it now than on its other sets, so answers to them are required such as Mega Diancie, Mega Mewtwo X, or Xerneas. Mega Mewtwo X serves to be a problem as Flash Fire Necrozma-DM does not threaten it in the slightest while it can 2HKO Necrozma-DM with its Fighting-type STAB moves, so Mega Mewtwo X checks like Giratina and other bulky Ghost-types help as well as Imposter Chansey. Teammates that can wall Ghost-type moves like Moongeist Beam such as Kyogre-Primal, Mega Gyarados, or Poison Heal Mega Audino help.

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

• Mention Ultranecrozium Z. Ultra Necrozma is becoming increasingly more gimmicky on an already borderline unviable set.
• Note Solganium Z in one of the sets.
• Mention Tinted Lens on the Band set.
• Minor move variations on some sets.

example paragraph

An offensive set with Ultranecrozium Z can be used with the idea of Ultra Bursting to self-Imposter-proof after setting up a Shell Smash, but Ultra Necrozma is particularly easy to revenge kill with most priority moves especially when utilizing Simple and Prankster users can stop a sweep outright and do a sizeable chunk of damage with U-turn especially if Ultra Necrozma sets up again in the same turn. Solganium Z can be used on the RegenBand set, but Necrozma-DM greatly appreciates the power provided by the Choice Band rather than access to Searing Sunraze Smash. If you're looking for raw power, Tinted Lens can be used over Choice Band on the RegenBand set, however Necrozma-DM needs significantly more support and it may not be worth it. Icicle Crash can be used on RegenBand, but Necrozma-DM loses out on multiple 2HKOes on various Dragon-types like Giratina. Defog can be used on the Flash Fire set as Defog can't be spinblocked unlike RegenVests with Rapid Spin, but Flash Fire Necrozma-DM is primarily used for setting up hazards rather than removing them as it can gain multiple free turns with Anchor Shot. Primordial Sea can be used over Flash Fire as that also grants a Fire-type move immunity, but Flash Fire Necrozma-DM doesn't usually run Water-type moves like Scald to go with it and Primordial Sea removes the unpredictability that Flash Fire grants. Prankster is an option for a set, but other Steel-types usually perform that role better especially with Necrozma-DM's glaring weakness to Dark- and Ghost-type moves.

Checks and Counters
========

• Initial list will probably be: Ground-types, Dark-types, Ghost-type Coverage, Mega Mewtwo X, and Prankster Users. Still deciding on this.

example paragraphs

**Dark-types**: These can come in freely on most of Necrozma-DM's sets and threaten Necrozma-DM. They are immune to Photon Geyser as well. Choice Band Dark-types such as Mega Gyarados and Mega Tyranitar frequently have Pursuit to Pursuit trap Necrozma-DM's defense sets and they also frequently have Sucker Punch to beat the offensive sets, namely BellyBurden. Defensive Dark-types like Yveltal and Mega Sableye can use Knock Off or Revelation Dance to deal big damage to Necrozma-DM.

**Ghost-type Coverage**: Ghost-type coverage is extremely common in the form of Moongeist Beam and Spectral Thief. Most specially offensive Pokemon carry Moongeist Beam to deal with Sturdy Shedinja in particular while most defensive Pokemon carry Spectral Thief to hinder setup sweepers. RegenVest Pokemon commonly carry Spectral Thief, and RegenVest Kyogre-Primal resists Steel-type moves and can hit Necrozma-DM very hard using Spectral Thief with its great base 150 Attack. Many offensive Dragon-types like Kyurem-White, Mega Rayquaza, and Mega Sceptile run Moongeist Beam which can in turn 2HKO or even OHKO Necrozma-DM in the right circumstances.

**Ground-types**: Mega Garchomp and especially Red Orb Groudon can both massively threaten Necrozma-DM. Mega Garchomp can easily OHKO Necrozma-DM with just Thousand Arrows while Red Orb Groudon can very easily tank attacks with its truly amazing 160 physical Defense. Both of them can get the opportunity to set up Stealth Rock on Necrozma-DM as they both force it out

**Mega Mewtwo X**: Mega Mewtwo X is a massive threat to many Pokemon in the tier with its incredible Psychic / Fighting typing, and Necrozma-DM is one of the Pokemon that's explicitly threatened by Mega Mewtwo X. Mega Mewtwo X has unrivaled Attack in this metagame and Fighting-type moves make Necrozma-DM crumble regardless of the set Mega Mewtwo X runs as Close Combat has an impressive 120 Base Power, Low Kick has the full 120 Base Power against Necrozma-DM, and Technician Storm Throw has a higher Base Power than both of the former moves.

This is a really weird format which I'm not gonna QC and I asked BH QC they won't qc it either until it's changed. Please standardize your analysis to how it's supposed to be.

 

[yogi]

Please do the above bud

 

[Storm Eagle]

I already have. I just didn't respond to this thread. I talked to QC directly. QC said they were in the process of working on it.

 

[cityscapes]

overview

• Necrozma-DM shares striking similarities to Solgaleo, as both are Steel and Psychic-types with nearly identical stats. Necrozma-DM is very slightly less bulky than Solgaleo overall as Necrozma-DM has a much lower base HP, but it has higher defenses than Solgaleo.
• Necrozma-DM can underspeed base 90 Speed Pokemon as well as Zygarde-C, which is something Solgaleo cannot do. Its role as a slow pivot should not be underestimated.
• Necrozma-DM has a moderately higher Attack stat than Solgaleo, and because of this its offensive sets are more viable than Solgaleo's offensive sets.

this focuses too much on comparing dusk mane to solgaleo. spend more time talking about the strengths and weaknesses of dusk mane as a standalone mon; competition with solgaleo for a team slot should be mentioned but kept to one bullet point probably.

Extremely weak to Dark-types as they force out Necrozma-DM and can even Pursuit trap it.

instead mention how it has more weaknesses than other steels like registeel and celesteela, and how a notable spectral weakness can rly hold it back at times, u turn neutrality can be kinda lame too

add points like dusk mane's good bulk, which puts it ahead of steels like gear steela ferro, and no fighting weakness which can come in handy.

belly drum

moves

• Dusk Mane is less susceptible to Spectral Thief due to its naturally low Speed but it can outspeed max Speed Deoxys-S by 2 points after Unburden.
• Necrozma-DM can self-Imposter-proof as running 220 Defense EVs allows for Dusk Mane to OHKO Imposter Chansey with Power Trip at +6 Attack.

these should go in usage tips/set details respectively, not moves

Sunsteel Strike also ignores abilities so Fur Coat users cannot wall and Sturdy Shedinja is not a switch-in.

also mention unaware

move 3: Photon Geyser / Icicle Crash

move photon to other options. it literally only hits unaware ogre (which takes 85 from boosted sunsteel) and nothing else, so its usually not worth it

set details

• Unburden doubles the Speed stat which lets Adamant Necrozma-DM reach 506 Speed, which is 2 points higher than max Speed Deoxys-S.
• Imposter does not copy Unburden and must consume its own item in order to get the Speed boost.
• Due to the interactions of Belly Drum, Sitrus Berry, and Unburden, there is no variation in the ability or item.

i dont think you need to explain how it specifically works, just say like "unburden doubles necrozma's speed after it clicks drum, letting it outspeed scarf imposter and every unboosted mon", also say that sitrus is used specifically for activating unburden

usage tips

the ones you already have are ok but this section is super barren. say what necrozma can set up on and what it can't, and how much you need to watch your hp if the opponent has a priority user

team options

give examples for each bullet point, like what contrary users work best and which offensive dragons threaten gira/zyg effectively

Additional Steel-types are advised as Dusk Mane is not a defensive Steel-type.

this feels kinda weird to me because it implies that defensive steels are mandatory on every team, which they really aren't, and if anything they wouldn't go well with necro because then you just stack more weaknesses. change the justification to like "they can blanket check stuff like ph regi and ates which the offensive teams you use this set on can struggle with" or something

In the rare chance Belly Drum gets stolen by Spectral Thief, an Imposter, Prankster user, or a fast wallbreaker is appreciated.

Avoid running Imposter with BellyBurden Dusk Mane as your team will lack offensive pressure due to Imposter mainly being used to revenge kill while BellyBurden Dusk Mane is a late game sweeper.

you say use imposter and then say dont use imposter ??????? make up ur mind man

regenvest

slash relaxed on set, it helps vs random spectrals and vs mmx

moves

RegenVest Pokemon are fantastic at removing hazards and the use of Rapid Spin should not be understated.

i wouldnt really call them fantastic, i mean you get spinblocked by every ghost except shed and weakened aegi (if spectral). detail the strengths of spin compared to defog, those being higher pp and only removing hazards from your side

Sunsteel Strike is a solid Steel-type STAB move that offers good Base Power with the capability of threatening Sturdy Shedinja.

you dont really say what this does outside of threatening shed, expand on how it makes dusk mane less passive because he can deal pretty nice damage to stuff

Spectral Thief is a good Ghost-type move that can steal boosted stats from the opponent. This move lets Dusk Mane be significantly less passive.

what are you spectraling? specify drummers, smash mons that think they can set up on you, contrary maybe

Core Enforcer is mainly used for its secondary effect which disables the opponent's ability should Necrozma-DM move after the opponent which lets it threaten Pokemon who rely on their abilities.

specify ph users like regi mmx gira

set details

Minimum Speed and Sassy Nature let it get the slowest pivot while having the highest Special Defense.

why do you need the highest special defense???

Both formes of Mega Mewtwo as well as Mega Tyranitar are enemies of Dusk Mane. Bring checks or counters to both of them.

specify checks/counters, mega diancie is ok as is imposter, outside of that its super hard to find something that can reasonably handle all three of these. a lot of offensive stuff beats dusk mane and you could even expand the list to stuff like vcreate ate, ph regi, magma storm xern with some luck, and ofc gengar too. maybe even remove this point altogether

usage tips/team options look fine

regenband

moves

Sunsteel Strike is an incredibly powerful Steel-type move that ignores abilities like Fur Coat.

incredibly powerful is rly pushing it here, yeah u can ohko less bulky mons weak to it like xern but

252+ Atk Choice Band Necrozma-Dusk-Mane Sunsteel Strike vs. 248 HP / 252+ Def Giratina: 196-232 (38.9 - 46.1%) -- guaranteed 3HKO

this is pretty lame compared to other breakers like mmx kart etc. just say its dusk mane's strongest stab

QC: I'm so-so on slashing Photon Geyser. I'd like your explicit opinions on this.

photon geyser shouldnt be slashed with sunsteel at all because sunsteel is like your best move. like before, it's only really valuable vs ogre, and although that's cooler on this set because u beat all ogre sets (not just unaware) easier, at that point why not run bolt strike? also you really need all the moveslots. other qc might disagree but i dont think photon has a place on this set.

Choice Band multiplies Attack by 1.5x but restricts the use to only one move.

say what this does for dusk mane: "cb increases dusk mane's power significantly, making it into a threatening wallbreaker" or something. same goes for regen.

usage tips

Do not use V-Create on Imposter switch-ins if Imposter is at full health as you fail to OHKO Imposter and you will put yourself at a disadvantage.

what am i supposed to do then????? man i dont wanna be walled by this thing forever. i get that you later say uturn is the play, but i dont think you should discourage this so heavily because weakening imposter is always nice

team options

Mega Mewtwo X and Y are both problems as they both individually threaten Necrozma-DM. It's highly recommended that you bring a check or counter to them. Mega Slowbro, Giratina, and Mega Sableye can check Mega Mewtwo X while -ates, Triage, other forms of strong priority, and fast Bug-types like Mega Beedrill and Pheromosa can all check Mega Mewtwo Y.

this is actually super wack, all these mons lose to gengar which dusk mane also loses to. add gar checks in another bullet

you said uturning on imposter was the play, get some guys that can take on imposter (as in threaten, not just wall). sleep users, knock users, pdon, hazard setters, cb blaziken or somethin, normalize gar are all options

flash fire

im really not sure about having only hazards slot 1, dusk mane isnt a very good hazard setter because audino is the only common bouncer he actually threatens, ig you can run like solganium z to beat other bouncers but even then its still unreliable. slash wisp slot 1, necro can use the move without fearing bounce thanks to ff and burning spectral users is super nice for it.

moves

Core Enforcer is one of it's only saving graces in that Solgaleo is too fast to use it for many targets.

WHAT DOES IT DO

Entrainment can be used instead for targets with negative priority moves, but Core Enforcer is usually better.

WHY IS CORE USUALLY BETTER

U-turn can be used to pivot, but it should only be used with Sunsteel Strike.

i know i told you before not to specify how stuff worked before but in this case i think it should be more specific. a concise way of putting it is "it leaves dusk mane unable to trap imposter even if you have anchor shot" or something.

Topsy-Turvy can invert stat boosts which gives it a better time against physical attackers, but it has a worse time checking PH Regigigas.

say "physical sweepers" instead of "physical attackers", this move is not helping you against cb users

usage tips

Try and wait a little while before immediately setting up Stealth Rocks to avoid Magic Bouncers.

how is waiting gonna help you? another way of getting hazards is by trapping one of their non magic bounce mons with anchor, then getting rocks because they cant switch.

This set counters Poison Heal Xerneas and can force out Poison Heal Regigigas once. Don't use it as your main and only Regigigas check.

earth power xern beats this

team options

Ghost-type resists for Moongeist Beam users can help. RegenVests also help ease the pain of Moongeist Beam.

like what?

Dark-type answers are even more important now. Flash Fire Dusk Mane absolutely requires answers to Dark-types like Mega Tyranitar. Mega Diancie also helps for this purpose, beating most Mega Tyranitar sets barring DazzleSmash.

dusk mane can also imposter proof diancie which is some nice heat

other options

An offensive set with Ultranecrozium Z can be used with the idea of Ultra Bursting to self-Imposter-proof after setting up a Shell Smash, but Ultra Necrozma is particularly easy to revenge kill with most priority moves especially when utilizing Simple and Prankster users can stop a sweep outright and do a sizeable chunk of damage with U-turn especially if Ultra Necrozma sets up again in the same turn.

mention how the drum set in particular often outclasses this

Defog can be used on the Flash Fire set, but Necrozma-DM is better at setting hazards than removing them.

this doesnt make any sense. why is it better at setting hazards than removing them

add fc here, its a nice blanket check for guys like mmx (you finally beat him!!), cb kart kinda, diancie, and ray although its easy to wear down so it isnt a very consistent check

theres a lot to cover here so no stamp yet, but you're on the right track. keep it up

 

[Storm Eagle]

theres a lot to cover here so no stamp yet, but you're on the right track. keep it up

I've voiced some concerns about the QC check privately on Discord, but other than that I have implemented most of them.

 

[cityscapes]

not bad

qc 1/3

 

[Storm Eagle]

Okay. Thanks.

 

[Ren]

Bullet points are meant to be initial talking points; the paragraphs themselves are built with the bullet points in mind.

[OVERVIEW]

• Necrozma-DM is a highly versatile Pokemon with a slow Speed stat, a great Attack stat, and decent defenses to boot, allowing it to run a myriad of offensive and defensive sets viably. It can serve as a late game setup sweeper, a defensive pivot, an offensive pivot, and a support Pokemon in it's different sets.
• Necrozma-DM shares striking similarities to Solgaleo, as both are Steel and Psychic-types with nearly identical stats. Necrozma-DM is very slightly less bulky than Solgaleo overall as Necrozma-DM has a much lower base HP, but it has higher defenses than Solgaleo. Necrozma-DM is also slower with higher Attack than Solgaleo, both of which can make it more desirable in the right circumstances. just say that despite its marginally lower bulk, its higher attack and lower speed make it a generally better pivot than solgaleo
• Necrozma-DM can underspeed base 90 Speed Pokemon as well as Zygarde-C, which is something Solgaleo cannot do. Its role as a slow pivot should not be underestimated. last sentence is filler, first sentence should go with above bullet
• Necrozma-DM has a great base Attack stat which allows it to do considerably well at offensive sets. Its Attack is second only to Kartana in regards to Steel-types, which makes it an incredibly powerful Steel-type. just talk about how much it forces out (assuming it forces much out) bc people dont wanna have to go to kart, then to the third most powerful steel type in order to figure out just how powerful it is and it's not too relevant that it's the second most physically strong steel
• Decent HP and great Defense and Special Defense stats allow it to be on par or greater than most other Steel-types defensively while not having a weakness to Fighting-type moves.
• Extremely weak to Dark-types as they force out Necrozma-DM and can even Pursuit trap it. Despite its added bulk, it has more weaknesses than other Steel-types which is its main downside with its defensive sets. Weaknesses to Ghost and Dark with a neutrality to Bug hinder its defensive capabilities against moves like Moongeist Beam, Knock Off, and U-turn respectively i wouldnt mention u turn as it isnt taking too too too much anyway. Other Steel-types which can usually perform the same job without as much hassle.
• talk about how its lower speed means it can very easily be revenge killed by pokemon, also bring up pursuit weakness as it is huge.

[SET]
name: BellyBurden
move 1: Belly Drum
move 2: Sunsteel Strike
move 3: Icicle Crash
move 4: Power Trip / Precipice Blades
item: Sitrus Berry
ability: Unburden
nature: Adamant
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 220 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe

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

• Belly Drum reduces Dusk Mane's HP by 50% this is /ds info which isn't needed and automatically consumes the Sitrus Berry the same turn which activates Unburden, which has the overall result of raising your Attack by 12 wat and doubling your Speed this belongs on unburden set details. instead of this sentence, i'd just say "Belly Drum maximizes Necrozma's Attack stat while always consuming Necrozma's Sitrus Berry, in turn activating Unburden." or smth, i just came up w it on the fly.
• Sunsteel Strike is a powerful Steel-type STAB move that can break even neutral targets at +6. Sunsteel Strike also ignores abilities so Fur Coat and Unaware users cannot wall and Sturdy Shedinja is not a switch-in. Photon Geyser is identical to Sunsteel Strike except it's Psychic-type. im confused why this sentence is here - are you trying to say that geyser can be used over sunsteel? mention why, state that it hits primal kyogre but loses out on hitting steel types, as well as making necrozma dm worse at forcing fairies out unboosted.
• Icicle Crash and Precipice Blades can be used in an alternative which provides better overall coverage at the cost of handling Imposter worse. split icicle crash and precipice, and be more verbose with what these moves do and what they hit.
• Earthquake is a reliable Ground-type move but it loses out on a lot of power that Precipice Blades offers, especially against Imposter. prob not worth mentioning, also make this more verbose. state what mons specifically it loses power against

Note to QC: Earthquake is intentionally not slashed. I think it's worth a mention, but not enough to slash.

Set Details
========

• Unburden doubles the Speed stat which lets Adamant Necrozma-DM allowing it to reach 506 Speed which lets it outspeed every unboosted Pokemon in the metagame as well as Scarf Imposter.
• Dusk Mane is less susceptible to Spectral Thief due to its naturally low Speed but it can outspeed max Speed Deoxys-S by 2 points after Unburden. im unsure why this bullet is here, if anything this is an overview point minus the ability to outspeed max speed deo-s.
• Necrozma-DM can self-Imposter-proof as running 220 Defense EVs allows for Dusk Mane to OHKO Imposter Chansey with Power Trip at +6 Attack.
• Adamant boosts Attack; Jolly is redundant as Adamant already outspeeds every unboosted Pokemon.
• Sitrus Berry activates at 50% or lower health. Necrozma-DM with 252 HP EVs has an even HP stat which allows it to be exactly 50% after using Belly Drum to immediately eat the Sitrus Berry which then activates Unburden.
• Due to the interactions of Belly Drum, Sitrus Berry, and Unburden, there is no variation in the ability or item. there's not much point in this line, i'd remove it.
• 220 Defense EVs lets Necrozma-DM get a guaranteed OHKO on Imposter with Power Trip at +6 Attack. you mentioned this already
• 20 Defense EVs can be used when using Precipice Blades to get a guaranteed OHKO, but hazard damage is sufficient to score the OHKO with Precipice Blades at 252 EVs. remove "at 252 EVs" as it's redundant

Usage Tips
========

• Dusk Mane should only be used in late game to minimize the chances of being checked. change this to "should only try to sweep late game" as it can still come in w slow momentum and force things out
• Scouting for Prankster users such as (examples here) is mandatory as Prankster can stop a sweep hard and Necrozma-DM only gets two opportunities to set up at best.
• Also scout for Spectral Thief as setting up on passive Pokemon may not be a safe idea unless you explicitly know it doesn't have Spectral Thief. scout for setup control in general and core as well
• Avoid setting up if your opponent has any priority which can threaten you. Galvanize Zekrom is especially threatening to this set. Even other -ates may threaten you if you've taken enough chip damage.
• Don't set up with Dark-types active as the risk of Sucker Punch is very real. Don't set up Belly Drum unless you know they don't have Sucker Punch.
• Chip damage from hazards is greatly appreciated especially if Necrozma-DM is running Precipice Blades as Imposter will be less of an issue. After Stealth Rock damage, Precipice Blades is a guaranteed OHKO on Imposter.
• tell the reader to avoid switching necrozma dm recklessly as this mon is not intended to be switching in on anything

Team Options
========

• In the rare chance Belly Drum gets stolen by Spectral Thief, a Prankster user, or a fast wallbreaker is appreciated. Registeel and Giratina use Prankster, and Mega Mewtwo X and Mega Rayquaza are fast wallbreakers.
• Offensive Dragon-types like Mega Rayquaza and Kyurem-B are appreciated for the main set to cover Dusk Mane's weakness to Giratina and Zygarde-C. They also cover Prankster versions of said Pokemon.
• Additional Steel-types are advised as Dusk Mane has issues with things like Poison Heal Regigigas and -ates. Registeel in specific has higher overall defenses than Necrozma-DM.
• Dusk Mane appreciates having teammates like Mega Mewtwo X or Mega Garchomp that can deal with Steel-type Prankster users.
• Contrary Pokemon like Mega Mewtwo X, Mega Mewtwo Y, or Mega Rayquaza can bait out Prankster users. and pressure them in order to make it easier for necrozma-dm to sweep
• Avoid running Imposter with BellyBurden Dusk Mane as your team will lack offensive pressure due to Imposter mainly being used to revenge kill while BellyBurden Dusk Mane is a late game sweeper. not too true, imposter can make use of slow momentum and stuff and also offensive pressure isn't a requirement for bellyburden, as long as you have a contra or smt youll be fine.

[SET]
set: RegenVest
move 1: U-turn
move 2: Sunsteel Strike
move 3: Spectral Thief / Nuzzle
move 4: Rapid Spin / Nuzzle / Core Enforcer
item: Assault Vest
ability: Regenerator
nature: Sassy / Relaxed
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD
ivs: 0 Spe

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

• U-turn is an essential move on any Regenerator set as it provides momentum on an already slow Pokemon.
• Sunsteel Strike is a solid Steel-type STAB move that offers good Base Power with the capability of threatening Sturdy Shedinja. It hits most Pokemon for good base damage which helps prevent it from being passive.
• Spectral Thief is a good Ghost-type move that can just cut the "is a... that can" part steal boosted stats from the opponent. This move lets Dusk Mane be significantly less passive. Boosts can be stolen from Pokemon that use Belly Drum, Quiver Dance, Shell Smash, and more. This move is very versatile and can be used against many setup Pokemon and as such is a great option for this set.
• Nuzzle can cripple more offensive Pokemon and it goes well with Necrozma-DM's good bulk with the Assault Vest. why, exactly? also mention how imposter nuzzling you can make you slower, allowing more opportunities for momentum, but also risks paras
• RegenVest Pokemon are fantastic at removing hazards and the use of Rapid Spin should not be understated filler sentence, remove it. Rapid Spin removes hazards from only your side of the field unlike Defog which removes hazards from both sides of the field. Rapid Spin has significantly higher PP as well. Both of these come at the cost of being spinblocked rather easily, which is an issue for RegenVest Necrozma-DM.
• Core Enforcer is great as Necrozma-DM is very slow letting it underspeed a ton of stuff. Core Enforcer is mainly used for its secondary effect which disables the opponent's ability should Necrozma-DM move after the opponent which lets it threaten Pokemon who rely on their abilities such as Poison Heal Pokemon like Regigigas not a great example bc koff + spore scares ndm a lot, id remove this and replace it w smth else if possible., Mega Mewtwo X, and Giratina.

Set Details
========

• Regenerator restores 33% of Necrozma-DM's health should it switch out. Useful for passively healing without wasting turns using moves like Shore Up. mention how it's also the only viable way assault vest users can recover hp
• Assault Vest boosts Special Defense by 1.5x but restricts the use of status moves. Very useful when combined with Regenerator, as all Regenerator needs is U-turn and Necrozma-DM can not only pivot but restore health while doing so.
• Minimum Speed and Sassy Nature let it get the slowest pivot while having the highest Special Defense. This lets it wall most attacks from specially offensive Pokemon provided they don't have super-effective coverage for it.

Usage Tips
========

• Pivot very frequently, Necrozma-DM's slow Speed is its greatest strength. Don't underestimate its ability to provide momentum for the team.
• Because of Necrozma-DM's mediocre defensive typing, it must be wary on what it switches into as it can't take many super-effective hits even with the Assault Vest factored in. Pick your targets carefully.
• Don't try to steal boosts from Contrary or Poison Heal users as the former usually carries V-create while the latter carries Spore, both of which threaten Necrozma-DM.
• Use Nuzzle frequently if you have it equipped. If your opponent tries switching into an already paralyzed Pokemon to tank the Nuzzle, you can instead U-turn into a breaker and put your opponent at a disadvantage.

Team Options
========

• Both formes of Mega Mewtwo as well as Mega Tyranitar are enemies of Dusk Mane. Bring checks or counters to both of them. merge this into one sentence: bring checks to mmx mmy mtar. Mega Diancie can check all three reasonably well provided they don't have Dazzling, Imposter is a Pokemon they all have difficulty with, and strong Bug-types like Mega Beedrill can beat Mega Mewtwo Y and Mega Tyranitar while at the very least annoying Mega Mewtwo X.
• Dark-types in general really bother Dusk Mane, PH Xerneas is one example of a Pokemon that can help. Prankster users beat Power Trip sweepers.
• -Ates are an annoyance as they often carry coverage which threatens Necrozma-DM. Be very cautious of V-create from Mega Diancie and Mega Rayquaza in specific. Soundproof Pokemon like Mega Slowbro, Mega Swampert, or Cresselia cresselia is a really bad soundproof user can usually counter these -ates and they can serve as an Imposter-proof to another offensive Pokemon you may have.
• Having a teammate with Anchor Shot can make Imposter less of a nuisance as your opponent may try to capitalize off your Necrozma-DM's Regenerator with their Imposter by switching in then pivoting or immediately switching out. Having self-Imposter-proof teammates also helps as you will be less worried about Imposter abusing Regenerator.
• Bring a solid Imposter-proof for Necrozma-DM if you use Nuzzle. Red Orb Groudon and Mega Garchomp can both serve as suitable Ground-types to tank Nuzzle mention how they can retaliate back w their strong stab or you can use a Poison Heal Pokemon other than Xerneas to Imposter-proof Necrozma-DM with Nuzzle.
• Dusk Mane is best partnered with glass cannons as Dusk Mane's low base 77 Speed allows it to underspeed base 90s as well as Zygarde-C.
• Primal Kyogre serves to be a Fire-type resist and takes little damage from Moongeist Beam from most Pokemon.

[SET]
QC: I'd like to ask you to consider letting this set stay here rather than being an OO or removed from this analysis. I've extensively used this set and it's just as good as the other sets. I've asked it to be added to the SetPedia and it may be added soon. This set is originally from Motherlove, so it's not a theorymon. It actually works well in the meta as of currently so please reconsider your thoughts on this.

qc talked and this set is oo. as such, im skipping this part of the analysis.

name: RegenBand
move 1: U-turn
move 2: Sunsteel Strike
move 3: V-create / Precipice Blades / Close Combat
move 4: Ice Hammer
item: Choice Band
ability: Regenerator
nature: Brave
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD
ivs: 0 Spe

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

• U-turn is a mandatory move for any Choice Band user as it helps gain momentum and gets decent chip damage on the opponent.
• Sunsteel Strike is a powerful Steel-type move that ignores abilities like Fur Coat.
• V-create is a powerful Fire-type move which can nuke the Steel-types it normally has trouble with but has issues with Flash Fire. Precipice Blades is a strong alternative, but is inaccurate. Close Combat is another alternative but you don't hit Aegislash and you deal less damage to Imposter.
• Ice Hammer does massive damage to the dominant Dragon-type walls in this metagame--Zygarde-C and Giratina.

QC: I'm so-so on slashing Photon Geyser. I'd like your explicit opinions on this.

Set Details
========

• Choice Band multiplies Attack by 1.5x but restricts the use to only one move which makes Necrozma-DM significantly more threatening as it can break a large number of Pokemon.
• Brave and minimum Speed ensure the slowest pivot with U-turn.
• Regenerator restores 33% of Necrozma-DM's max HP upon switching out which is useful as Necrozma-DM is not only a wallbreaker but a long lasting one at that.

Usage Tips
========

• If you aren't sure what to do then you should always pivot if you know your opponent can't hit you super-effectively.
• Sunsteel Strike and Photon Geyser only have 8 PP. Don't waste their PP as you will be reliant on them to do the most damage.
• Keep in mind that while Imposter will lose a significant amount of health from V-create, it won't be OHKOed by it and will gain momentum on you in subsequent turns as Necrozma-DM will be forced out.
• Hard switch out if Imposter switches in, and if you predict Imposter will switch in then use U-turn.
• Avoid hard switching in Necrozma-DM unless you're sure it can get a safe switch-in.

Team Options
========

• Primal Kyogre is a great teammate, particularly RegenVest variants. RegenVest Primal Kyogre can gain you even more momentum and can provide cover for Necrozma-DM as well as pivot into it safely.
• Prankster users can get momentum with Parting Shot against Imposters who use U-turn against you.
• Mega Mewtwo X and Y are both problems as they both individually threaten Necrozma-DM. It's highly recommended that you bring a check or counter to them. Mega Slowbro, Giratina, and Mega Sableye can check Mega Mewtwo X while -ates, Triage, other forms of strong priority, and fast Bug-types like Mega Beedrill and Pheromosa can all check Mega Mewtwo Y.
• A Mega Gengar check in specific is nigh mandatory; a RegenVest Pokemon with Revelation Dance like Primal Kyogre or Yveltal can counter Mega Gengar.
• Have a Imposter-proof Pokemon ready in the case you U-turn on the same turn Imposter comes in so that you can immediately threaten it. Red Orb Groudon, Dark-types that can Knock Off or Pursuit trap, and Pokemon with sleep inducing moves can help here.
• Use wallbreakers with it like Mega Mewtwo X or Y, Mega Beedrill, and Mega Rayquaza as they appreciate momentum with the strong U-turns.
• Teammates that can trap Imposter can help as Necrozma-DM has a more difficult time dealing with Imposter due to the nature of Regenerator letting Imposter passively heal. Ho-Oh, Zygarde-C, and Ferrothorn can all utilize trapping to stall out Imposter. Mega Gengar, Poison Heal Regigigas and Xerneas, and Pokemon that utilize Plates can all self-Imposter-proof.

[SET]
name: Flash Fire
move 1: Stealth Rock / Spikes / Will-o-Wisp
move 2: Anchor Shot / Sunsteel Strike
move 3: Core Enforcer / U-turn / Topsy-Turvy entrainment also works in core enforcer's stead well enough to be a slash, you can slash it 1st or 4th move.
move 4: Shore Up
item: Safety Goggles
ability: Flash Fire
nature: Sassy
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD
ivs: 0 Spe

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

• This set is great for setting up hazards and as such it can set up either Stealth Rock or Spikes on quite a few targets. This is great when faced with targets such as Shedinja who tend to dislike hazards. two separate bullets for sr and spikes, go over the benefits and consequences of using both
• Will-o-Wisp can be used instead of hazards as it can burn targets while still threatening a lot of targets. Necrozma-DM itself is immune to Will-o-Wisp because of Flash Fire so it doesn't need to worry about Magic Bounce or Imposter.
• Anchor Shot is a Steel-type move with decent Base Power with good PP but most importantly it can trap the opponent which is especially important against Imposter as Imposter only has 5 PP for each move, so it ends up Struggling in the right scenario. there's a better way to phrase this - "Imposter only has 5 PP for each move so it can get outstalled when trapped" or smth, Struggling isn't a term idt
• Sunsteel Strike is more powerful and lets Necrozma-DM be less passive during the battle, but this comes at the cost of being unable to check Imposter, especially as Imposter gets free turns to set up hazards.
• Core Enforcer is one of it's only saving graces in that Solgaleo is too fast to use it for many targets. It disables the target's ability should Necrozma-DM move last, which is helpful against targets like Poison Heal users. what ph users? specify.
• Entrainment can be used instead for targets with negative priority moves, but Core Enforcer is usually better why?. Entrainment is a Status move which makes your opponent's ability identical to your own this is /dt info, not required., and unlike Core Enforcer this move hits Fairy-types which allows Necrozma-DM to have an easier time beating Poison Heal Xerneas. one of it's better niches so i'd even slash this before core enforcer potentially, seeing as it can also allow you to hide anchor for imposter
• U-turn can be used to pivot, but it should only be used with Sunsteel Strike as Necrozma-DM cannot trap Imposter with U-turn and Anchor Shot.
• Topsy-Turvy can invert stat boosts which gives it a better time against physical sweepers such as, btw you can slash topsy on move 1 as well, hazards/status aren't obligatory on this set, but it has a worse time checking PH Regigigas.
• Shore Up is used to restore health.

Set Details
========

• Flash Fire grants an immunity to Fire-type attacks and boosts the power of Fire-type attacks when hit unnecessary /dt filler, cut to the chase, but Flash Fire is only used for the former as it patches up a weakness Necrozma-DM has. reword this to "Flash Fire is used to block Fire-type coverage from Pokemon Necrozma would like to check such as...
  
  • "
  • Safety Goggles blocks the use of powder moves and weather damage. Seeing as Necrozma-DM is naturally immune to Sandstorm residual damage while Hail is uncommon filler stuff, just say "Safety Goggles is primarily used to block Spore because...", its main use is in blocking Spore which is a powder move.
  • Sassy to boost Special Defense while reducing Speed for minimum Speed. It works well when Necrozma-DM is often facing special attackers what calcs does it help with? give examples..
• 
  Usage Tips
  ========
  • Use the element of surprise to try and beat Imposter. If your opponent tries to switch in Imposter to scout you frequently, you can punish them with Anchor Shot and stall them out.
  • Try and wait a little while before immediately setting up Stealth Rocks to scout for Magic Bouncers. You can also trap a Pokemon without Magic Bounce then set up Stealth Rock.
  • If using Will-o-Wisp, use it frequently as offensive Pokemon are crippled and defensive Pokemon get constant chip damage.
  • This set checks Poison Heal Xerneas and can force out Poison Heal Regigigas once. Don't use it as your main and only Regigigas check. this later sentence? team options
  • With Topsy-Turvy, it can force out Triage users, but be cautious of coverage such as Earth Power and Moongeist Beam.
  • Scout most special attackers for Moongeist Beam by double switching. Moongeist Beam is a prominent threat to this set.
• 
  Team Options
  ========
  • Using a Pokemon such as Mega Diancie with it to imposter-proof both another Pokemon and itself can increase the value of Flash Fire Dusk Mane for the team. mention what these offensive pokemon can do for it, also your sentence reads weirdly and i can't really understand what you mean. also provide more examples.
  • Dusk Mane should not be the only PH Regigigas check. Griseous Orb Giratina with either Magic Bounce or Misty Terrain can help. most giratina can, just say pokemon such as giratina zygarde and ferrothorn (or a better check than thorn if you can come up w/ one bc double steel can be iffy, but this ndm does take neutral dmg from fighting and is immune to fire while thorn is neutral to ground. if you do include thorn then mention that
  • Dark-type answers are even more important now. Flash Fire Dusk Mane absolutely requires answers to Dark-types like Mega Tyranitar. this is redundant. Mega Diancie also helps for this purpose, beating most Mega Tyranitar sets barring DazzleSmash. Flash Fire Necrozma-DM can Imposter-proof Pixilate Mega Diancie provided it runs V-create. merge this with your first bullet, mdiancie shouldnt have two bullets.
  • Still doesn't beat Mega Mewtwo X. Dusk Mane needs checks to it. you can't just say this and expect them to know what you're talking about, give examples.
  • Ghost-type resists like Mega Tyranitar, Poison Heal Regigigas, and Mega Gyarados for Moongeist Beam users can help. RegenVests such as Primal Kyogre or Yveltal also help ease the pain of Moongeist Beam. just say special walls
  • talk about imposter
• 
  [STRATEGY COMMENTS]
  Other Options
  ========
  • regenband bullet
  • An offensive set with Ultranecrozium Z can be used with the idea of Ultra Bursting to self-Imposter-proof after setting up a Shell Smash, but Ultra Necrozma is particularly easy to revenge kill with most priority moves especially when utilizing Simple and Prankster users can stop a sweep outright and do a sizeable chunk of damage with U-turn especially if Ultra Necrozma sets up again in the same turn. BellyBurden just say belly drum usually performs this set better because it's more consistent id actually say it's less consistent since it can only set up twice, and the second time is pretty situational. change this to less vulnerable to being rked, significantly stronger, and allows for better coverage. also be sure to mention what moves this uses.
  • The Belly Drum and RegenBand sets can opt to run Photon Geyser but the move provides little coverage for the moveslot it takes up. if photon geyser belly drum is oo then dont include it in the main set at all
  • Necrozma-DM has access to Searing Sunraze Smash with the Solganium Z item, but Necrozma-DM generally prefers the items it currently has on it's offensive sets and it's defensive sets don't have much room for different items.
  • RegenBand can run Tinted Lens to go full-on offensive, but Necrozma-DM appreciates the recovery from Regenerator especially as it is a rather slow Pokemon susceptible to chip damage from faster Pokemon.
  • RegenBand can run Icicle Crash to avoid the Speed drop, but Necrozma-DM needs all the power it can get from Ice Hammer.
  • Primordial Sea is an option over Flash Fire, but Necrozma-DM doesn't usually make use of the Rain over other Primordial Sea users like Celesteela do with Scald. so then why use it?
  • Prankster is an option for a set, but Necrozma-DM is outperformed by many other Steel-types as a Prankster user. give examples. if they wanna use a prank steel then tell them what's better
  • Fur Coat is an option that allows Necrozma-DM to beat Mega Mewtwo X, Mega Diancie, and Mega Rayquaza, but it's quite easy to wear down over the course of the battle. what's the full set
• 
  Checks and Counters
  ========
  • Dark-types: These can come in freely on most of Necrozma-DM's sets and threaten Necrozma-DM. They are immune to Photon Geyser as well not too relevant since geyser is oo on all fronts. Choice Band Dark-types such as Mega Gyarados and Mega Tyranitar frequently have Pursuit to Pursuit trap Necrozma-DM's defense sets and they also frequently have Sucker Punch to beat the offensive sets, namely BellyBurden. where is yveltal.
  • Ghost-type coverage: Ghost-type coverage is extremely common in the form of Moongeist Beam and Spectral Thief. Most specially offensive Pokemon carry Moongeist Beam to deal with Sturdy Shedinja in particular and unawares, also instead of saying most just say "Specially offensive Pokemon carry... ...in particular" while most defensive Pokemon carry Spectral Thief to hinder setup sweepers.
  • Ground-types: Mega Garchomp and especially Red Orb Groudon can both massively threaten Necrozma-DM. Mega Garchomp can easily OHKO Necrozma-DM with just Thousand Arrows while Red Orb Groudon can very easily tank attacks with its truly amazing 160 physical Defense. mention how it can threaten back too Both of them can get the opportunity to set up Stealth Rock on Necrozma-DM as they both force it out.
  • Mega Mewtwo X: Mega Mewtwo X has unrivaled Attack in this metagame irrelevant and Fighting-type moves make Necrozma-DM crumble regardless of the set Mega Mewtwo X runs as Close Combat has an impressive 120 Base Power, Low Kick has the full 120 Base Power against Necrozma-DM, and Technician Storm Throw has a higher Base Power than both of the former moves.
  • where's the mega gengar mention? the steel types mention? the defensive walls mention? prankster mention? water types mention (mega slowbro in particular, see if you can merge it anywhere)
• [CREDITS]
  Written by: [[Storm Eagle, 211002]]
  Quality checked by: [[], [], []]
  Grammar checked by: [[], []]

there's quite a bit to get through here so i'm going to hold off on giving you the stamp, but nice work regardless. questions/concerns vm me on my profile.

 

[Funbot28]

Storm Eagle any updates on this?

 

[Storm Eagle]

Yeah. Give me a few days. I went to check if Smogon was up a few days ago, but the forums were lagging. I hadn't gotten back to my Analysis because my PC broke down, which is why I also haven't been around even in the Discord server. I'm currently setting up a new computer as I type this.

I'll get to this as soon as I can. I apologize for the delay.

 

[Storm Eagle]

The QC implementation is done now. I apologize for such a long wait.

 

[Ren]

Bullet points are meant to be initial talking points; the paragraphs themselves are built with the bullet points in mind.

[OVERVIEW]

• Necrozma-DM is a highly versatile Pokemon with a slow Speed stat, a great Attack stat, and decent defenses to boot, allowing it to run a myriad of offensive and defensive sets viably this line barely tells us anything, just be like "Necrozma-DM's traits allow it to serve as.... It can serve as a late game setup sweeper, a defensive pivot, an offensive pivot, and a support Pokemon in it's different sets.
• Necrozma-DM shares striking similarities to Solgaleo, as both are Steel and Psychic-types with nearly identical stats. Necrozma-DM is very slightly less bulky than Solgaleo overall as Necrozma-DM has a much lower base HP, but it has higher defenses than Solgaleo. Necrozma-DM is a much better pivot as it can underspeed base 90 Speed Pokemon as well as Zygarde-C, which is something Solgaleo cannot do.
• Necrozma-DM has a considerably higher Attack stat compared to Solgaleo and can force out a much greater number of Pokemon depending on the set. A +6 Attack Necrozma-DM can force out just about anything with it's Belly Drum set, RegenVest Necrozma-DM forces out anything that it walls such as passive Pokemon what passive pokemon? instead of "passive pokemon" give examples, and Flash Fire can take on anything that relies on Fire-type moves like V-create from -ates mray, mdiancie, kyub. not -ates.
• Decent HP and great Defense and Special Defense stats allow it to be on par or greater than most other Steel-types defensively while not having a weakness to Fighting-type moves.
• Extremely weak to Dark-types as they force out Necrozma-DM and can even Pursuit trap it. Despite its added bulk, it has more weaknesses than most other Steel-types which is its main downside with its defensive sets. Weaknesses to Ghost and Dark hinder its defensive capabilities against moves like Moongeist Beam and Knock Off. Neutrality to Bug-type moves can be an annoyance at times too. Other Steel-types which can usually perform the same job without as much hassle.
• Low Speed can be a hindrance as Necrozma-DM is more easily revenge killed. It's also prone to Pursuit trapping as a result what do you mean here? wouldnt a lower speed be less bad so it can slowturn out w/ mindgames?. The Unburden set don't have much of an issue with this, but the other three sets do.

[SET]
name: BellyBurden
move 1: Belly Drum
move 2: Sunsteel Strike
move 3: Icicle Crash
move 4: Power Trip / Precipice Blades
item: Sitrus Berry
ability: Unburden
nature: Adamant
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 220 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe

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

• Belly Drum on top of its regular effect automatically consumes the Sitrus Berry the same turn which activates Unburden.
• Sunsteel Strike is a powerful Steel-type STAB move that can break even neutral targets at +6. Sunsteel Strike also ignores abilities so Fur Coat and Unaware users cannot wall and Sturdy Shedinja is not a switch-in. you say nothing about specific pokemon it ohkos after a drum. give examples
• where is the power trip bullet?
• Icicle Crash and Precipice Blades can be used as an alternative which provides better overall coverage at the cost of handling Imposter worse. Icicle Crash hits bulky Dragon-types such as?? also these should be separately discussed extremely hard while Precipice Blades hits opposing Steel-types. like...? also make a note abt how it hits some waters neutrally, again give examples
• Earthquake is a reliable Ground-type move but it loses out on a lot of power that Precipice Blades offers, especially against Imposter Chansey and Unaware Steel-types these like barely exist.

Note to QC: Earthquake is intentionally not slashed. I think it's worth a mention, but not enough to slash.

Set Details
========

• Unburden doubles the Speed stat after Belly Drum which lets Adamant Necrozma-DM allowing it to reach 506 Speed just filler which lets it outspeed every unboosted Pokemon in the metagame as well as Scarf Imposter.
• Using Belly Drum will raise the Attack stat by 12 just say maximize or cut this out entirely bc raising by 12 is fucky wording lol, also make this about sitrus berry instead of belly drum and reduce Necrozma-DM's health just enough to eat the Sitrus Berry and activate Unburden.
• Dusk Mane outspeeds every unboosted Pokemon after Unburden including max Speed Deoxys-S by 2 points nobody cares by how much, id cut this.
• Necrozma-DM can self-Imposter-proof as running 220 Defense EVs allows for Dusk Mane to OHKO Imposter Chansey with Power Trip at +6 Attack. instead of "at +6" say "after a belly drum"
• Adamant boosts Attack; Jolly is redundant as Adamant already outspeeds every unboosted Pokemon.
• Sitrus Berry activates at 50% or lower health. Necrozma-DM with 252 HP EVs has an even HP stat which allows it to be exactly 50% after using Belly Drum to immediately eat the Sitrus Berry which then activates Unburden.
• 20 Defense EVs can be used when using Precipice Blades to get a guaranteed OHKO, but hazard damage is sufficient to score the OHKO with Precipice Blades.

Usage Tips
========

• Dusk Mane should only two is this meant to say try to sweep in late game to minimize the chances of being checked.
• Scouting for Prankster users such as bulky Dragon-types, bulky Steel-types, and Cresselia is mandatory as Prankster can stop a sweep hard and Necrozma-DM only gets two opportunities to set up at best.
• Also scout for setup control like Spectral Thief or Haze topsy as well as setting up on passive Pokemon may not be a safe idea unless you explicitly know it doesn't have said moves.
• Avoid setting up if your opponent has any priority which can threaten you. Galvanize Zekrom is especially threatening to this set. Even other -ates may threaten you if you've taken enough chip damage. you say this but only mention one uncommon mon w/ priority that actually threatens it. more examples
• Don't set up with Dark-types active as the risk of Sucker Punch is very real. Don't set up Belly Drum unless you know they don't have Sucker Punch. or like.. just dont set up on dark types at all
• Chip damage from hazards is greatly appreciated especially if Necrozma-DM is running Precipice Blades as Imposter will be less of an issue. After Stealth Rock damage, Precipice Blades is a guaranteed OHKO on Imposter.
• Avoid switching in Necrozma-DM unless you intend on setting up or at the very least forcing something out. Using this Pokemon recklessly can make you lose your setup opportunity.

Team Options
========

• In the rare chance Belly Drum gets stolen by Spectral Thief, Prankster user, or a fast wallbreaker is appreciated this reads very weirdly. i think you meant something like "In the rare chance Belly Drum gets stolen by Spectral Thief, a teammate that uses Prankster or is a fast wallbreaker...". Registeel and Giratina use Prankster, and Mega Mewtwo X and Mega Rayquaza are fast wallbreakers. you dont say once why it's appreciated, so elucidate that
• Offensive Dragon-types like Mega Rayquaza and Kyurem-B these arent really used bc of being dragon types, just say mons that can force dragons out like kyub mray and diancie are appreciated for the main set to cover Dusk Mane's weakness to Giratina and Zygarde-C. They also cover Prankster versions of said Pokemon.
• Additional Steel-types are advised as Dusk Mane has issues with things like Poison Heal Regigigas and -ates. Registeel in specific has higher overall defenses than Necrozma-DM.
• Dusk Mane appreciates having teammates like Mega Mewtwo X or Mega Garchomp that can deal with Steel-type Prankster users. what can ndm do in return?
• Contrary Pokemon like Mega Mewtwo X, Mega Mewtwo Y, or Mega Rayquaza can bait out Prankster users and pressure them so that Necrozma-DM can eventually sweep.
• If you intend on using Imposter, have a wallbreaker like a Contrary Pokemon or another highly offensive Pokemon people dont know what runs contra or what's highly offensive. give examples. as your team risks being extremely passive due to a lack of offensive pressure.

[SET]
set: RegenVest
move 1: U-turn
move 2: Sunsteel Strike
move 3: Spectral Thief / Nuzzle
move 4: Rapid Spin / Nuzzle / Core Enforcer
item: Assault Vest
ability: Regenerator
nature: Sassy / Relaxed
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD
ivs: 0 Spe

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

• U-turn is an essential move on any Regenerator set as it provides momentum on an already slow Pokemon.
• Sunsteel Strike is a solid Steel-type STAB move that offers good Base Power with the capability of threatening Sturdy Shedinja. It hits most Pokemon such as mega audino, xerneas, and mdiancie for good base damage which helps prevent it from being passive.
• Spectral Thief can steal boosted stats from the opponent. This move lets Dusk Mane be significantly less passive. Boosts can be stolen from Pokemon that use Belly Drum, Quiver Dance, Shell Smash, and more. this is kinda irrelevant, just say which pokemon. ppl will know what setup is This move is very versatile and can be used against many setup Pokemon redundant both before and after and as such is a great option for this set.
• Nuzzle can cripple more offensive Pokemon like what? mray, kart, etc and it goes well with Necrozma-DM's good bulk with the Assault Vest why? i dont understand. Necrozma-DM can take hits from plenty of Pokemon and paralyze them in return. Imposter can Nuzzle you back which further lowers your Speed, but you risk being unable to move a third 25% not 33% afaik of the time.
• Rapid Spin removes hazards from only your side of the field unlike Defog which removes hazards from both sides of the field. Rapid Spin has significantly higher PP as well. Both of these come at the cost of being spinblocked rather easily by giratina, which is an issue for RegenVest Necrozma-DM.
• Core Enforcer is great as Necrozma-DM is very slow letting it underspeed a ton of stuff. Core Enforcer is mainly used for its secondary effect which disables the opponent's ability should Necrozma-DM move after the opponent which lets it threaten Pokemon who rely on their abilities such as Poison Heal Pokemon like Zygarde-C, Mega Mewtwo X, and Giratina. reads p weirdly, id just do "...abilities such as ZygC mmx gira"

Set Details
========

• Regenerator restores 33% of Necrozma-DM's health should it switch out. Useful for passively healing without wasting turns using moves like Shore Up and it's the only viable way Assault Vest users can restore HP.
• Assault Vest boosts Special Defense by 1.5x but restricts the use of status moves. Very useful when combined with Regenerator, as all Regenerator needs is U-turn and Necrozma-DM can not only pivot but restore health while doing so.
• Minimum Speed and Sassy Nature let it get the slowest pivot while having the highest Special Defense. This lets it wall most attacks from specially offensive Pokemon provided they don't have super-effective coverage for it.

Usage Tips
========

• Pivot very frequently, Necrozma-DM's slow Speed is its greatest strength. Don't underestimate its ability to provide momentum for the team.
• Because of Necrozma-DM's mediocre defensive typing, it must be wary on what it switches into as it can't take many super-effective hits even with the Assault Vest factored in. Pick your targets carefully.
• Don't try to steal boosts from Contrary or Poison Heal users as the former usually carries V-create while the latter carries Spore, both of which threaten Necrozma-DM.
• Use Nuzzle frequently if you have it equipped. If your opponent tries switching into an already paralyzed Pokemon to tank the Nuzzle, you can instead U-turn into a breaker and put your opponent at a disadvantage.

Team Options
========

• Both formes of Mega Mewtwo as well as Mega Tyranitar are enemies of Necrozma-DM and should have checks or counters prepared. Mega Diancie can check all three reasonably well provided they don't have Dazzling, Imposter is a Pokemon they all have difficulty with, and strong Bug-types like Mega Beedrill can beat Mega Mewtwo Y and Mega Tyranitar while at the very least annoying Mega Mewtwo X.
• Dark-types in general really bother Dusk Mane, PH Xerneas is one example of a Pokemon that can help. Prankster users beat Power Trip sweepers. what prankster mons? readers wont know. give examples.
• -Ates are an annoyance as they often carry coverage which threatens Necrozma-DM. Be very cautious of V-create from Mega Diancie and Mega Rayquaza in specific. Soundproof Pokemon like Mega Slowbro, Mega Swampert, or Zygarde-C can usually counter these -ates and they can serve as an Imposter-proof to another offensive Pokemon you may have.
• Having a teammate with Anchor Shot can make Imposter less of a nuisance as your opponent may try to capitalize off your Necrozma-DM's Regenerator with their Imposter by switching in then pivoting or immediately switching out. Having self-Imposter-proof teammates also helps as you will be less worried about Imposter abusing Regenerator.
• Bring a solid Imposter-proof for Necrozma-DM if you use Nuzzle. Red Orb Groudon and Mega Garchomp can both serve as suitable Ground-types to tank Nuzzle and hit back hard with Ground-type STAB or you can use a Poison Heal Pokemon examples.. other than Xerneas to Imposter-proof Necrozma-DM with Nuzzle.
• Dusk Mane is best partnered with glass cannons dont ever run glass cannons bc they're glass cannons. run them for a different niche. dm might be a good partner for glass cannons, but that doesnt mean glass cannons are a good partner for it. as Dusk Mane's low base 77 Speed allows it to underspeed base 90s as well as Zygarde-C.
• Primal Kyogre serves to be a Fire-type resist and takes little damage from Moongeist Beam from most Pokemon.
• imposter is a very solid teammate for this mon, worth more than a mention in bullet 1

[SET]
name: Flash Fire
move 1: Stealth Rock / Spikes / Will-o-Wisp / Topsy-Turvy
move 2: Anchor Shot / Sunsteel Strike
move 3: Core Enforcer / Entrainment / U-turn / Topsy-Turvy
move 4: Shore Up
item: Safety Goggles
ability: Flash Fire
nature: Sassy
evs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD
ivs: 0 Spe

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

• This set is great for setting up hazards and as such it can set up Stealth Rock on quite a few targets. This is great when faced with targets "threats" since shed has no business coming in on dm most of the time such as Shedinja who tend to dislike hazards. Stealth Rock hits all Pokemon and factors in weaknesses and resists.
• Spikes is another alternative, and although it takes three turns to set up a full stack of Spikes, it can do more damage than Stealth Rock at 3 stacks and it doesn't factor in resists. However, due to it taking more turns to set up fully, it can also be frequently cleared before getting a full stack.
• Will-o-Wisp can be used instead of hazards as it can burn targets while still threatening a lot of targets. Necrozma-DM itself is immune to Will-o-Wisp because of Flash Fire so it doesn't need to worry about Magic Bounce or Imposter.
• Anchor Shot is a Steel-type move with decent Base Power with good PP but most importantly it can trap the opponent. Imposter only has 5 PP in each move so trapping it can let Necrozma-DM outstall Imposter.
• Sunsteel Strike is more powerful and lets Necrozma-DM be less passive during the battle, but this comes at the cost of being unable to check Imposter, especially as Imposter gets free turns to set up hazards.
• Core Enforcer is one of it's only saving graces in that Solgaleo is too fast to use it for many targets. It disables the target's ability should Necrozma-DM move last, which is helpful against targets such as Poison Heal users like Giratina, Zygarde-C, and Diancie.
• Entrainment can be used instead for targets with negative priority moves, but Core Enforcer is usually better as it makes Necrozma-DM less passive. Entrainment is a Status move which unlike Core Enforcer this move hits Fairy-types which allows Necrozma-DM to have an easier time beating Poison Heal Xerneas.
• U-turn can be used to pivot, but it should only be used with Sunsteel Strike as Necrozma-DM cannot trap Imposter with U-turn and Anchor Shot.
• Topsy-Turvy can invert stat boosts which gives it a better time against sweepers such as Dazzling users, Fairy-type sweepers, and Contrary users lacking coverage, but it has a worse time checking PH Regigigas.
• Shore Up is used to restore health.

Set Details
========

• Flash Fire is only used for the Fire-type immunity as it patches up a weakness Necrozma-DM has.
• Safety Goggles blocks the use of powder moves and weather damage. Its main use is in blocking Spore which is a powder move.
• Sassy to boost Special Defense while reducing Speed for minimum Speed. It works well when Necrozma-DM is often facing special attackers like Contrary Dragon-types that lack coverage for Flash Fire Necrozma-DM. Many 2HKOes from these Contrary users can turn into 3HKOes.

Usage Tips
========

• Use the element of surprise to try and beat Imposter. If your opponent tries to switch in Imposter to scout you frequently, you can punish them with Anchor Shot and stall them out.
• Try and wait a little while before immediately setting up Stealth Rocks to scout for Magic Bouncers. You can also trap a Pokemon without Magic Bounce then set up Stealth Rock.
• If using Will-o-Wisp, use it frequently as offensive Pokemon are crippled and defensive Pokemon get constant chip damage.
• This set checks Poison Heal Xerneas and can force out Poison Heal Regigigas once.
• With Topsy-Turvy, it can force out Triage users, but be cautious of coverage such as Earth Power and Moongeist Beam.
• Scout most special attackers for Moongeist Beam by double switching. Moongeist Beam is a prominent threat to this set.

Team Options
========

• Don't use Necrozma-DM as your main and only Regigigas check. It can only switch in once to Regigigas.
• Necrozma-DM can easily imposter-proof Mega Diancie and other Fairy-types so they can increase the value of Necrozma-DM on the team. Dragon-types like Mega Rayquaza can also work.
• Dusk Mane should not be the only PH Regigigas check. Giratina, Zygarde-C, and Magic Bounce Mega Tyranitar can all very easily switch into PH Regigigas.
• Dark-type answers are even more important now. Mega Diancie also helps for this purpose, beating most Mega Tyranitar sets barring DazzleSmash. Mega Beedrill has extremely strong Bug-type STAB that nails most Dark-types and can be a good pivot for Necrozma-DM. Mega Mewtwo X has one of the strongest Attack stats and good enough bulk to fend off most Dark-types fairly easily.
• Still doesn't beat Mega Mewtwo X. Dusk Mane needs checks to it. Mega Mewtwo Y outspeeds and can very easily threaten with the right moves. Mega Aerodactyl also outspeeds and has a type advantage against Mega Mewtwo X and Necrozma-DM can also imposter-proof it. Bulky Psychic-types like Cresselia or Soundproof Mega Slowbro can wall Mega Mewtwo X.
• Ghost-type resists like Mega Tyranitar, Poison Heal Regigigas, and Mega Gyarados for Moongeist Beam users can help. Special walls such as Primal Kyogre or Yveltal also help ease the pain of Moongeist Beam.
• Imposter Chansey can help scout for moves, most notably Moongeist Beam from the setup sweepers that Necrozma-DM would normally try to check. Imposter can also serve as a fallback for setup sweepers that Necrozma-DM fails to check if it has a Choice Scarf.

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

• An offensive set with Ultranecrozium Z can be used with the idea of Ultra Bursting to self-Imposter-proof after setting up a Shell Smash, but Ultra Necrozma is particularly easy to revenge kill with most priority moves especially when utilizing Simple and Prankster users can stop a sweep outright and do a sizeable chunk of damage with U-turn especially if Ultra Necrozma sets up again in the same turn. Belly Drum usually performs this set better because it's significantly stronger and allows for better coverage. Ultranecrozium-Z sets usually opt for Power Trip for coverage against Imposter, Sunsteel Strike for pre-Ultra Burst coverage or Close Combat for general coverage, and Photon Geyser for Light That Burns The Sky.
• Necrozma-DM has access to Searing Sunraze Smash with the Solganium Z item, but Necrozma-DM generally prefers the items it currently has on it's offensive sets and it's defensive sets don't have much room for different items.
• A variation of the RegenVest set called RegenBand exists that utilizes the Choice Band to get a balance between recovery and power. RegenBand can serve as a strong pivot that can easily whittle down the opponent over time. The moveset of RegenBand prioritizes coverage like V-create and Ice Hammer over support moves like Nuzzle and Spectral Thief.
• The Belly Drum and RegenBand sets can opt to run Photon Geyser but the move provides little coverage for the moveslot it takes up.
• Prankster is an option for a set, but Necrozma-DM is outperformed by many other Steel-types as a Prankster user. Registeel doesn't have the Ghost- and Dark-type weaknesses that Necrozma-DM does with far more bulk in general. Aegislash has the same weaknesses as Necrozma-DM but comes with a Fighting-type move immunity. Celesteela's secondary typing actually brings something to the table with the Ground-type move immunity.
• Fur Coat is an option that allows Necrozma-DM to beat Mega Mewtwo X, Mega Diancie, and Mega Rayquaza, but it's quite easy to wear down over the course of the battle. Fur Coat runs recovery, Anchor Shot, Spectral Thief, and another support move such as Will-o-Wisp.

Checks and Counters
========

• Dark-types: These can come in freely on most of Necrozma-DM's sets and threaten Necrozma-DM. Choice Band Dark-types such as Mega Gyarados and Mega Tyranitar frequently have Pursuit to Pursuit trap Necrozma-DM's defense sets and they also frequently have Sucker Punch to beat the offensive sets, namely BellyBurden. Yveltal can also wall most attacks fairly easily from Necrozma-DM except for the BellyBurden set.
• Ghost-type coverage: Ghost-type coverage is extremely common in the form of Moongeist Beam and Spectral Thief. Specially offensive Pokemon carry Moongeist Beam to deal with Sturdy Shedinja and Unaware users in particular while most defensive Pokemon carry Spectral Thief to hinder setup sweepers.
• Ground-types: Mega Garchomp and especially Red Orb Groudon can both massively threaten Necrozma-DM. Mega Garchomp can easily OHKO Necrozma-DM with just Thousand Arrows while Red Orb Groudon can very easily tank attacks with its truly amazing 160 physical Defense and OHKO with both of its STABs. Both of them can get the opportunity to set up Stealth Rock on Necrozma-DM as they both force it out.
• Mega Mewtwo X: Mega Mewtwo X's Fighting-type moves make Necrozma-DM crumble regardless of the set Mega Mewtwo X runs as Close Combat has an impressive 120 Base Power, Low Kick has the full 120 Base Power against Necrozma-DM, and Technician Storm Throw has a higher Base Power than both of the former moves.
• Mega Gengar: Even though Mega Gengar cannot switch in to Necrozma-DM, it can easily OHKO Necrozma-DM with its Ghost-type coverage and Focus Sash sets can even afford to set up on Necrozma-DM.
• Defensive Walls: While Necrozma-DM walls a lot of things, it can also be walled back fairly easily, and its weakness to Ghost-type moves leaves it at a disadvantage against walls carrying Spectral Thief. While it has some leeway against walls that rely on their abilities with Sunsteel Strike, there are plenty of walls like Water-types such as Mega Slowbro and Mega Swampert can afford to switch into Necrozma-DM regardless of Sunsteel Strike.

[CREDITS]
Written by: [[Storm Eagle, 211002]]
Quality checked by: [[Gurpreet Patel (Sent you a Friend Request), 233142], [GL Volkner, 330455], []]
Grammar checked by: [[], []]

alright so to be blunt, this analysis is bad. idk how to put it nicer without getting the point across. the belly drum set is really bad, a lot of your points are nonsensical, inaccurate or false, and right now i feel like im having to ghostwrite this analysis instead of fine tuning it (or even heavy tuning it.) i've been at this for half an hour and only covered half or so, and im not even sure i've covered all of what's to be covered in that half.

for reference, if you're going to add something that wasn't included in the qc (the glass cannon bullet, possibly more), mention it here.

going to reject this. sorry, but i just can't fix this up atm without rewriting a significant portion of the analysis.

QC Reject 1/3

 

[Ginger Princess]

Archiving for lack of update since the QC Reject.