Hey guys, so I think one of the most exciting and interesting things in RU is the fact that a ton of NFE Pokemon are available for our use but a ton of them are still to be discovered, and some are even extremely good in the metagame.
This thread will contain a compilation of usable and good NFE Pokemon that are available to us in RU. Not all have to carry Eviolite (for example Haunter) but most will probably require it.
Some of the NFE Pokemon are hugely known, for example Munchlax and Ferroseed, so I won't spend much time on it. Instead, this thread should be trying to discover some lesser used Pokemon and see if we can find any possible "game changers."
This thread will work a little bit like a threatlist, which will don't have yet so someone is still able to do that as well.
If somebody at some point wants to convert this to an actual article to put onsite that'd be awesome. For now the goal is just to give a more broad overview on what's out there.
On with the show eh?
I actually don't know most of the best movesets for some of the Pokemon, nor the best description for them, but I'll get us started:
Cottonee
40 HP / 27 Atk / 60 Def / 37 SpA / 50 SpD / 66 Spe
Cottonee @ Eviolite
Ability: Prankster
Nature: Bold (+Def, -Atk)
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD
- Encore
- Leech Seed
- Taunt
- Substitute / Toxic
While somewhat outclassed by Jumpluff who can carry Leftovers, Cottonee has one major trick up its sleeve the other cotton ball lacks: Taunt. Priority Taunt can be extremely aggravating for opposing stall teams to face, and combined with priority Encore and Leech Seed, Cottonee can be quite the menacing little beast. Unfortunately, that's where the good news stops. The RU metagame is utterly hostile towards Cottonee, as the top Pokemon, including Yanmega, Venomoth, Moltres, and hail teams in general, just basically curbstomp the poor puffball.
Dragonair
61 HP / 84 Atk / 65 Def / 70 SpA / 70 SpD / 70 Spe
Dragonair @ Eviolite
Ability: Shed Skin
Nature: Adamant (+Atk, -SpA) or Jolly (+Spe, -SpA)
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
-ExtremeSpeed
-Outrage
-Dragon Dance
-Waterfall
Being a Dragon-type already gives Dragonair a huge niche in the metagame, but combine that with the fact that Dragonair is one of the fastest available and comes with a great ability and huge movepool makes it that much better. ExtremeSpeed is godly in this tier thanks to its ability to beat most other priority users in the tier, such as Sharpedo (though Dragonair doesn't really fear it in the first place). While a DD-boosted Outrage is scary, there are unfortunately plenty of Pokemon that can tank it, especially since Dragonair lacks a Life Orb and Choice Band. Though, Dragonair oftens finds time to set up multiple DDs, so this is remedied somewhat by that. Dragonair also can beat weakened Aggrons (the biggest obstacle to most of the other Dragons) thanks to Waterfall.
Duosion
65 HP / 40 Atk / 50 Def / 125 SpA / 60 SpD / 30 Spe
Duosion @ Eviolite
Ability: Magic Guard
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD
Nature: Bold (+Def, -Atk)
- Calm Mind
- Recover
- Psychic
- Hidden Power Fighting / Shadow Ball
A page taken directly from Reuniclus's book, Duosion's goal is to come in, set up Calm Mind, and tank the opponent to oblivion. The biggest thing Duosion holds over Cresselia is its ability Magic Guard. Thanks to that, it doesn't have to worry about Toxic Spikes or Toxic in general ending its sweep. Duosion's biggest downside is its lack of physical bulk, even with max investment. It'll take a huge chunck of health from Pursuit from Honchkrow and company, and won't like Megahorn from Rhyperior (or even Earthquake for that matter). Keep Duosion protected until the big brutes are out of the picture, and then bring it in to wreak havoc. Interesting side note: with Shadow Ball, this Duosion beats any SubCM Cresselia one-on-one.
Ferroseed
44 HP / 50 Atk / 91 Def / 24 SpA / 86 SpD / 10 Spe
(yes this is c/p'd from my Smog article, stfu)
Ferroseed @ Eviolite
Ability: Iron Barbs
EVs: 252 HP / 4 Def / 252 SpD
Nature: Sassy (+SpD, -Spe)
IVs: 0 Spe
- Stealth Rock / Spikes
- Leech Seed
- Toxic / Protect
- Gyro Ball
With overall defenses only slightly less than that of Ferrothorn, Ferroseed is very durable and its typing is as godly as ever. While using Ferroseed doesn't seem like the best of ideas considering Bug-type attacks score a neutral hit and Entei is rising as a top threat, it does have its uses. Setting up Stealth Rock is needed on every team as long as Yanmega and Venomoth are in the tier. As an added bonus, Ferroseed counters the two most common Rapid Spin users in RU, Blastoise and Claydol. The other moves are for general utility. Leech Seed and Toxic allow Ferroseed to out-stall any Cresselia, and they provide Ferroseed a way to deal Entei a nasty blow as it tries to switch in. Finally, Gyro Ball is there to ensure that Ferroseed isn't complete Taunt bait, and actually scores a nice hit on any Pokemon above a base 48 Speed stat, even with Ferroseed's abysmal Attack stat.
Fraxure
66 HP / 117 Atk / 70 Def / 40 SpA / 50 SpD / 67 Spe
Fraxure @ Eviolite
Ability: Mold Breaker
EVs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
Nature: Jolly (+Spe, -SpA)
- Dragon Dance
- Outrage
- Dragon Claw
- Taunt / Swords Dance
(this is the UU overview)
While most Steel-types are stuck in OU to help check the overpowering Dragon-types there, Dragon-types in RU can often run through teams with their virtually unresisted Dragon-type STAB. Fraxure is a great offensive Dragon Dance user with base 117 Attack, just enough Speed to outspeed key threats such as Yanmega, Dugtrio, and Sceptile, after a boost, and decent bulk with an Eviolite. Despite the greater versatility and coverage of other Dragon-types, such as Kingdra and Altaria, the sheer power of Fraxure's Outrage makes up for its lesser movepool.
Frillish
55 HP / 40 Atk / 50 Def / 65 SpA / 85 SpD / 40 Spe
Frillish @ Eviolite
Ability: Water Absorb
EVs: 252 HP / 4 Def / 252 SpD
Nature: Calm (+SpD, -Atk)
- Will-O-Wisp
- Taunt
- Recover
- Scald / Night Shade
Frillish's success comes not from its stats, but from its typing and movepool. Its typing is pretty godly in this tier and is one of the few Ghost-types available. It works pretty decently as a spinblocker since it threatens and/or walls a good majority of Rapid Spinners, particularly Blastoise and Claydol. But the real thing that Frillish has over most of the other spinblockers in the tier is the combination of Recover and Taunt. Suddenly Venomoth isn't so threatening if you can Taunt it on the switch, and Munchlax becomes utter set up fodder. Just be wary of Frillish's meager Defense stat. Even if you burn a physical attacker with Will-O-Wisp on the switch, attacks from the likes of Medicham are going to hurt like hell.
Gligar
65 HP / 75 Atk / 105 Def / 35 SpA / 65 SpD / 85 Spe
Gligar @ Eviolite
Ability: Hyper Cutter
Nature: Impish (+Def, -SAtk)
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD
- Earthquake
- Toxic
- Roost
- Stealth Rock
Gligar has ridiculous defenses after an Eviolite boost. Its physical defense surpasses 500 and its special defense isn't too shabby with the Eviolite boost, allowing it to take weaker non-stab Ice attacks from the likes of Cresselia. Such massive physical defense allows it to wall a majority of the tier's most threatening physical attackers such as Entei, Medicham, and Rhyperior. Even if your opponent isn't packing one of those, Gligar still finds time to setup the ever-useful Stealth Rock, and can even Toxic stall whole teams with its tremendous bulk and access to Roost.
Golbat
75 HP / 80 Atk / 70 Def / 65 SpA / 75 SpD / 90 Spe
Golbat @ Eviolite
Ability: Inner Focus
EVs: 252 HP / 4 Def / 252 SpD
Nature: Calm (+SpD, -SpA)
- Roost
- Toxic
- Super Fang
- Taunt / Whirlwind
Golbat brings a few unique characteristics to a team. It resists Yanmega's and Venomoth's Bug Buzz even after Tinted Lens, which is a huge boon to any team. It also is pretty fast, making it an ideal stallbreaker for most teams. Golbat can go physically defensive as well to capitalize on its 4x resistance to Fighting-type attacks and immunity to Ground.
Gurdurr
85 HP / 105 Atk / 85 Def / 40 SpA / 50 SpD / 40 Spe
Gurdurr @ Eviolite
Ability: Guts
Nature: Careful (+SpD, -SpA)
EVs: 252 HP / 4 Def / 252 SpD
- Bulk Up
- Mach Punch
- Drain Punch
- Payback
(yes this is the UU analysis Overview)
Gurdurr has good physical bulk, with base stats of 85 in Defense and HP. It also resists Stealth Rock, allowing it to easily enter the field. Although Gurdurr's Special Defense is lacking, with the new Eviolite item its Special Defense can actually reach a maximum of 327. However, with the many offensive special attacking Pokemon in the tier such as Yanmega and Moltres, Gurdurr still has a hard time. It also has a low Speed stat, like most bulky Pokemon, but this is somewhat remedied by Mach Punch, and the lack of Leftovers is covered by Drain Punch. Bulk Up also makes sure that Gurdurr will hit hard with its great base Attack stat of 105, while boosting its already high Defense stat. At the same time, Gurdurr has the ability Guts, making it even more impressive defensively and offensively, as the opponent will be wary of inflicting it with status. Overall, Gurdurr is a dangerous offensive and defensive threat.
Haunter
45 HP / 50 Atk / 45 Def / 115 SpA / 55 SpD / 95 Spe
Haunter @ Life Orb
Ability: Levitate
Nature: Timid (+Spe, -Atk)
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
- Shadow Ball
- Sludge Bomb
- Thunderbolt
- Substitute / Thunder Wave / Taunt
The success of Haunter comes from its awesome speed stat. While it loses out to Entei, it does beat Moltres and unboosted Venomoth, as well as ties with Yanmega. Haunter hits extremely hard with its STAB moves and Thunderbolt alone, and the last slot is almost completely filler. Substitute is the best choice since it protects it from priority moves and from Entei (though Haunter has the neat ability of being able to switch into CB ExtremeSpeeds and set up a Sub). Not only is Haunter a terrifying sweeper, it also make a fantastic offensive spinblocker, since it OHKOs almost every Rapid Spin user in the tier. Aside from a LO set, Haunter can also run a Specs or Scarf set to great success with Trick in the last slot to cripple Munchlax and other would-be counters.
Lampent
60 HP / 40 Atk / 60 Def / 95 SpA / 60 SpD / 55 Spe
Lampent @ Eviolite
Ability: Flash Fire
EVs: 252 HP / 4 Def / 252 SpD
Nature: Calm (+SpD, -Atk)
- Fire Blast / Flamethrower
- Will-O-Wisp / Toxic
- Pain Split
- Night Shade / Protect
Lampent is an interesting choice for a spinblocker and Fire-type in general. Firstly, it devastates both Yanmega and Venomoth with Fire Blast (though it needs to watch out for Sleep Powder), and can tank any hit from Entei bar Stone Edge and retaliate with Night Shade. Lampent also makes a good last ditch switch-in to Moltres thanks to Flash Fire. The only downsides to Lampent are, ironically, its typing and Speed. Its typing leaves it exposed to the multitude of Water-types in the tier, and it actually loses to almost every other Ghost-type one-on-one. A lack of immunity to Ground-type moves also hurts it, as it is then unable to beat Claydol as well.
Machoke
80 HP / 100 Atk / 70 Def / 50 SpA / 60 SpD / 45 Spe
Machoke @ Eviolite
Ability: No Guard
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 4 Def
Nature: Adamant (+Atk, -SpA)
- DynamicPunch
- Payback
- Rest
- Sleep Talk
(yes this is the UU Overview)
Though Machoke's stats are very decent for an NFE Pokemon, giving it great bulk with an Eviolite and good power, No Guard + DynamicPunch is really what sets Machoke apart. DynamicPunch hits quite hard, and is guaranteed to confuse the target. This causes switches, builds up residual damage, and endlessly frustrates the opponent. When you add Payback, Machoke gets perfect neutral coverage. However, the RU metagame is highly hostile to Machoke; there are Ghost-, Bug-, Flying-, and Psychic-types around every corner, and a metagame often centered on Spikes and Rapid Spin does not suit Machoke at all. The combination of Rest and Sleep Talk allows Machoke to circumvent many of its usual problems: its lack of recovery, its vulnerability to status moves, and DynamicPunch's meager 8 PP.
Magmar
65 HP / 95 Atk / 57 Def / 100 SpA / 85 SpD / 93 Spe
Magmar @ Eviolite
Ability: Flame Body
EVs: 252 HP / 4 Def / 252 SpD
Nature: Calm (+SpD, -Atk)
- Lava Plume
- Toxic
- Rest
- Sleep Talk
A Fire-type special wall actually isn't that bad of an idea in RU, considering that the main Water- and Ground-type special attackers, Blastoise and Claydol, have pretty puny offense. Blastoise only manages 25.1% - 29.3% with Scald, for instance, so you can easy Toxic and Rest stall it. It takes 32.6% - 38.6% from a Timid Tinted Lens Choice Specs Yanmega Bug Buzz, meaning even with Stealth Rock down you can switch in and threaten it out. Obviously then, Speed Boost Yanmega is a breeze for Magmar to deal with. While 334 HP and 225 Defense isn't particularly sturdy on the physical side, the burn chance from Flame Body can be handy in a pinch. Don't take Magmar on the offensive though, leave that to its evolution Magmortar.
Magneton
50 HP / 60 Atk / 95 Def / 120 SpA / 70 SpD / 70 Spe
Magneton @ Eviolite
Ability: Magnet Pull
EVs: 252 HP / 80 SpD / 176 Spe
Nature: Calm (+SpD, -Atk)
- Substitute
- Charge Beam
- Hidden Power Fire / Hidden Power Ice
- Magnet Rise / Thunderbolt / Flash Cannon
Steel-types are few and far between in RU, so functioning as a Steel trapper isn't really Magneton's main role. Instead, its goal is to abuse its own awesome Steel/Electric typing and set up on a good portion of the metagame. The best Pokemon to trap is probably Ferroseed, since it can't break your Substitutes with any of its attacks in about 4 hits, and then proceed to raise your Special Attack with Charge Beam. Once Ferroseed is KOed you should still be behind a Sub and can blast your opponent with whatever attack your heart desires. Magneton also makes a good switch into Aggron before a Rock Polish, since it can set up Magnet Rise followed by a Sub, and then blast it with HP Fire or Charge Beam. Against teams that don't have a Steel-type, Magneton's typing still allows it to set up a Sub against multiple Pokemon, and from there it works as a tank. Leftovers can replace the Eviolite here to give Magneton some survivability against hail teams, especially since Magneton's defenses are still decent even without Eviolite.
Misdreavus
60 / 60 / 60 / 85 / 85 / 85
Misdreavus @ Eviolite
Ability: Levitate
EVs: 252 HP / 252 SpD / 4 Spe
Nature: Calm (+SpD, -Atk)
- Shadow Ball / Perish Song
- Will-O-Wisp
- Taunt
- Pain Split
(from the spinning in RU thread)
Missy-D's big selling points are that she has great Special Defense with Eviolite and can utilize Taunt to block Foresight (provided it isn't used when she switches in). With these strengths, she can not only be a great spin blocker but also serve as a stallbreaker, preventing recovery with Taunt and slowly doing damage with Will-O-Wisp and Shadow Ball. Like most Ghost-types, her primary method of recovery is Pain Split, which unfortunately is not the most effective on a pokemon who can only whittle its opponents down slowly. Misdreavus is most useful on defensive teams that need a Taunting spinblocker and don't mind if she has to switch out of strong physical attackers frequently. She also works well with the many Fighting-type weak Wish passers of the tier.
Munchlax
135 HP / 85 Atk / 40 Def / 40 SpA / 85 SpD / 5 Spe
Munchlax @ Eviolite
Ability: Thick Fat
EVs: 252 HP / 4 Def / 252 SpD
Nature: Sassy (+SpD, -Spe)
- Whirlwind
- Sleep Talk
- Rock Slide / Rest
- Body Slam / Return / Toxic
One of the more prominent NFE Pokemon when combined with the Eviolite. The reason behind its popularity can be pretty much summed up to its ability to wall two of the biggest threats in the tier: Yanmega and Venomoth. It also came to popularity thanks to another fantastic trait, its ability Thick Fat, which it allows it to become a last ditch stop to Entei and Moltres. Most Munchlax sets run Sleep Talk so that it can absorb Sleep Powders from Venomoth and Tangela, along with either Whirlwind and Rock Slide. The last slot can go to Body Slam or Return for a good STAB move, or Toxic to spread status.
Murkrow
60 HP / 85 Atk / 42 Def / 85 SpA / 42 SpD / 91 Spe
Murkrow @ Eviolite
Ability: Prankster
Nature: Bold (+Def, -Atk)
EVs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD
- Perish Song
- Mean Look
- Roost
- Taunt / Substitute
(yes this is the first paragraph of the UU analysis)
Murkrow not only has access to Perish Song and Mean Look, but also gets Prankster as an ability. Thus, it can employ the Perish Trap strategy better than many other Pokemon. The general course of action is to use Mean Look to trap a wall that has little offensive prowess, such as Uxie or Claydol. While the opponent is unable to escape, Murkrow can sing its Perish Song and doom the opponent (provided it is not undead). The remaining two turns can be spent Roosting off attacks, in preparation for switching out on the third. Since the wall cannot flee while Murkrow is still in, Perish Song takes effect and KOes it. However, not all plans proceed smoothly, and in some cases it may be wiser to Perish Song first. For example, if your opponent switches to a strong attacker that can threaten to KO Murkrow or set up, using Perish Song first will alleviate the otherwise disadvantageous aftereffects of a fainted Murkrow and a boosted opponent.
Pupitar
70 HP / 84 Atk / 70 Def / 65 SpA / 70 SpD / 51 Spe
Pupitar @ Eviolite
Ability: Shed Skin
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 4 Def
Nature: Adamant (+Atk, -SpA)
- Dragon Dance
- Earthquake
- Stone Edge / Rock Slide
- Rest
Until Hippopotas drops into RU to provide permanent sandstorm and Rhyperior leaves RU, don't expect to see Pupitar very much. But, when that time comes that Hippopotas drops and Rhyperior leaves, Pupitar is going to be one annoying Pokemon to face. Being extremely bulky both physically and specially, having access to a great boosting move and awesome STABs, and being basically immune to status makes Pupitar one tough cookie to crack. Rest provides Pupitar with reliable recovery, and it has a chance of not even lasting a turn thanks to Shed Skin.
Rhydon
105 HP / 130 Atk / 120 Def / 45 SpA / 45 SpD / 40 Spe
Rhydon @ Eviolite
Ability: Rock Head
Nature: Adamant (+Atk, -SpA)
EVs: 216 HP / 252 Atk / 36 Def
- Substitute
- Earthquake
- Stone Edge
- Megahorn / Dragon Tail
While there isn't much reason to use Rhydon now while Rhyperior is still in the tier, there will come a day when he will have to fill his big brother's shoes. Unfortunately, Rhydon lacks Solid Rock to help take super effective hits, but makes up for it by taking neutral and resisted hits a little better. The set is a pretty standard SubPerior set, i.e. come in, set up a Sub, blast the switch in with the appropriate move, rinse and repeat. The EVs are designed to create 101 HP Subs, and max Attack to put the most hurt on the opponent. A more defensive set with an EV spread of 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD and Stealth Rock in place of Substitute can be run as well.
Roselia
50 HP / 60 Atk / 45 Def / 100 SpA / 80 SpD / 65 Spe
Roselia @ Eviolite
Ability: Natural Cure
EVs: 252 HP / 4 SpA / 252 SpD
Nature: Calm (+SpD, -Atk)
- Spikes / Toxic Spikes
- Synthesis / Rest
- Giga Drain
- Sleep Powder / Aromatherapy / Hidden Power Fire
A fantastic choice for a Grass-type and a good alternative to Ferroseed if you're looking for a Spikes user. While Roselia is unfortunately weak to Air Slash from Yanmega, it is able to take on most of the other Pokemon that Ferroseed has trouble against much better. It also has two huge things over Ferroseed: Sleep Powder and somewhat reliable recovery in Synthesis (somewhat due to the presence of rain and hail in the tier) or Natural Cure Rest. Roselia is also able to absorb enemy Toxic Spikes, a huge boon to most teams. The main downside to using Roselia is its extremely disappointing physical defense.
Scyther
70 HP / 110 Atk / 80 Def / 55 SpA / 80 SpD / 105 Spe
Scyther @ Eviolite
Ability: Technician
Nature: Jolly (+Spe, -SpA)
EVs: 216 HP / 40 Atk / 252 Spe
- Swords Dance
- Roost
- Aerial Ace
- Baton Pass / Brick Break
This set's been around for an extremely long time, but Eviolite makes this set viable and RU gives it a new lease on life. Short of status, it can nearly 2HKO anything in the tier after a Swords Dance. It also has a niche of being able to beat Specs Yanmega in a 1v1 situation and it can switch in on Bug Buzz with its awesome SpD, taking about 60% from it. It even has the advantage of Baton Passing out when the going gets rough, particularly when matched up against an Aggron. If that situation comes up, being able to Baton Pass a Swords Dance to a Rock Polish Rhyperior can be "gg" against the opponent.
Shelgon
65 HP / 95 Atk / 100 Def / 60 SpA / 50 SpD / 50 Spe
Shelgon @ Eviolite
Ability: Rock Head
EVs: 252 HP / 4 Atk / 252 SpD
Nature: Impish (+Def, -SpA)
- Dragon Dance
- Outrage / Dragon Claw
- Rest
- Sleep Talk
Tank, tank, tank. Come in, abuse Shelgon's awesome defenses to set up Dragon Dance, blast whatever with Outrage, use Rest when low on health, and use Sleep Talk when asleep. Shelgon hates hail teams and those that abuse Yanmega, but get Shelgon in late in the game, and just watch him plow through the opponent.
Snover
60 HP / 62 Atk / 50 Def / 62 SpA / 60 SpD / 40 Spe
Snover @ Eviolite
Ability: Snow Warning
EVs: 248 HP / 8 Def / 252 SpD
Nature: Calm (+SpD, -Atk)
- Leech Seed
- Toxic / Giga Drain
- Protect
- Blizzard / Wood Hammer
Snover is pretty unique in RU atm thanks to one reason: it provides the only permanent weather in RU. Combine that with a quite a few hail abusers available in the tier, particularly Walrein, Cryogonal, and Glaceon, and you can be sure to see a lot of Snover. Snover loves loves loves Eviolite, because it now enjoys the ability to switch in on basically any specially based Water-type in RU and throw around either Leech Seed or Toxic. Protect is fantastic for prediction with Snover, and Blizzard or Wood Hammer make sure that Snover isn't complete Taunt bait.
Tangela
65 HP / 55 Atk / 115 Def / 100 SpA / 40 SpD / 60 Spe
Tangela @ Eviolite
Ability: Regenerator
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD
Nature: Bold (+Def, -Atk)
- Sleep Powder
- Giga Drain
- Hidden Power Fire
- Leech Seed / Toxic
Tangela gained a lot of popularity as being one of the most physically defensive Pokemon available in the tier with Eviolite attached. While it may not seem like a good idea to run it like for the same reasons as Ferroseed, it's actually a solid choice to block Rhyperior and Aggron from sweeping you, as well as stomp any Water-type not packing Ice Beam.
Tentacool
40 HP / 40 Atk / 35 Def / 50 SpA / 100 SpD / 70 Spe
Tentacool @ Eviolite
Ability: Liquid Ooze
Nature: Calm (+SpD, -Atk)
EVs: 252 HP / 252 SpD / 4 Spe
- Toxic Spikes
- Rapid Spin
- Surf / Scald
- Knock Off / Ice Beam
Tentacool is a pretty cool Poke. While it has almost no offensive presence, it performs three unique roles in one Pokemon: Rapid Spinner, Toxic Spikes absorber, and Toxic Spikes supporter. It's also really bulky on the special side and walls nearly any Grass- or Water-type in the tier. Unfortunately, Tetacool lacks any form of recovery, so it must be used extra cautiously. Don't under any circumstances throw Tentacool into a match up where the opponent might use a physical move or it's game over for the poor jellyfish. Knock Off is a nice filler move to rid the enemy of their precious Eviolite or Leftovers, or maybe even LO/Specs/Scarf/CB.
Togetic
55 HP / 40 Atk / 85 Def / 80 SpA / 105 SpD / 40 Spe
Togetic @ Eviolite
Ability: Serene Grace
EVs: 252 HP / 4 Def / 252 SpD
Nature: Calm (+SpD, -Atk)
- Nasty Plot
- Roost
- Heal Bell / Baton Pass
- Hidden Power Flying
The beauty of Togetic stems from its ability to completely tank any hit from Yanmega and Venomoth, even after Stealth Rock damage. From there Togetic can perform as a cleric with Heal Bell, heal off the damage with Roost, or set up a Nasty Plot to either put a good dent in the opponent or Baton Pass the boost to a partner. The main downsides to using Togetic is its truly abysmal Speed, and its slight frailness on the physical side unless it's heavily invested in.
Vigoroth
80 HP / 80 Atk / 80 Def / 55 SpA / 55 SpD / 90 Spe
Vigoroth @ Eviolite
Ability: Vital Spirit
EVs: 252 HP / 4 Atk / 252 Def
Nature: Impish (+Def, -SpA)
- Bulk Up
- Slack Off
- Body Slam / Return
- Shadow Claw / Encore
Vigoroth is extremely bulky on the physical side, and can find time to set up Bulk Up on even the strongest physical attackers in the tier. Unfortunately, Vigoroth is very lacking in Special Defense, which in a tier filled to the brim with special threats like Yanmega and Moltres, isn't a great trait to have. Though, Vigoroth makes a very good last stand Pokemon and late-game cleaner. Encore and Slack Off and an immunity to sleep are what really separate Vigoroth from the pack.
Wynaut
95 HP / 23 Atk / 48 Def / 23 SpA / 48 SpD / 23 Spe
Wynaut @ Eviolite
Ability: Shadow Tag
EVs: 152 HP / 200 Def / 156 SpD
Nature: Calm (+SpD, -Atk)
- Counter
- Mirror Coat
- Encore
- Tickle / Safeguard
A pretty straightforward set that lets Wynaut trap and kill certain threats to your team, such as Gallade or Magmortar. However, the RU metagame is extremely unkind to the poor blue blob. Yanmega and the other Bugs completely destroy it, even if Wynaut runs max Speed Cresselia still outruns it, and there are a ton of Dark-type Pursuiters in the tier that can OHKO Wynaut. Not to mention that Hitmonlee can devastate it with Double-Edge, and Rhyperior OHKOes with Megahorn. It can still be useful to turn more defensive Pokemon such as Ferroseed into set up fodder, but for now Wynaut has a pretty tough time.
Zweilous
72 HP / 85 Atk / 70 Def / 65 SpA / 70 SpD / 58 Spe
Zweilous @ Eviolite
Ability: Hustle
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 4 Def
Nature: Adamant (+Atk, -SpA)
- Outrage
- Crunch
- Fire Fang
- Thunder Wave / Toxic / Dragon Tail
(yes this is the Overview from the UU analysis stfu)
When asked which Pokemon has the most powerful Outrage in the game, very few people would answer correctly. No, it's not Haxorus, and neither is it Zekrom or Rayquaza. As you may by now have guessed, the answer is indeed Zweilous; thanks to a decent base 85 Attack and Hustle, it has the equivalent of over 150 base Attack with full investment. With few viable Steel-types in the metagame, it is clear what sort of damage this Outrage can do. Let's not forget that Zweilous also has the game's most powerful Crunch, letting it destroy many of UU's Ghost- and Psychic-type behemoths. Unfortunately, the good news pretty much ends there. Zweilous is quite slow, with base 58 Speed, and is not especially bulky naturally. This means that it will die very fast by locking itself into Outrage. Even worse is Zweilous's movepool. Oh come on, surely it gets Dragon Claw? How about Dragon Dance? Hone Claws, Pursuit, Sucker Punch, Earthquake, or Fire Punch? The extent of Zweilous's useful movepool outside of Outrage and Crunch is Fire Fang, Dragon Tail, and Thunder Wave. This is not to mention Hustle's nasty side-effect either: all of its physical moves are reduced to 80% of their normal accuracy, which is truly infuriating; at best, its attacks are as reliable as the infamous Stone Edge. Bearing all of this in mind, it is very difficult to use Zweilous in a truly offensive role. Much more effective is an Eviolite tank set, as Zweilous's defensive stats become more than passable; Zweilous can then afford the occasional miss, and can afford not to outrun the opponent. This combination of power and bulk, along with a unique and useful typing, makes Zweilous a truly viable Pokemon in RU.
This thread will contain a compilation of usable and good NFE Pokemon that are available to us in RU. Not all have to carry Eviolite (for example Haunter) but most will probably require it.
Some of the NFE Pokemon are hugely known, for example Munchlax and Ferroseed, so I won't spend much time on it. Instead, this thread should be trying to discover some lesser used Pokemon and see if we can find any possible "game changers."
This thread will work a little bit like a threatlist, which will don't have yet so someone is still able to do that as well.
If somebody at some point wants to convert this to an actual article to put onsite that'd be awesome. For now the goal is just to give a more broad overview on what's out there.
On with the show eh?
I actually don't know most of the best movesets for some of the Pokemon, nor the best description for them, but I'll get us started:
Cottonee
40 HP / 27 Atk / 60 Def / 37 SpA / 50 SpD / 66 Spe
Cottonee @ Eviolite
Ability: Prankster
Nature: Bold (+Def, -Atk)
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD
- Encore
- Leech Seed
- Taunt
- Substitute / Toxic
While somewhat outclassed by Jumpluff who can carry Leftovers, Cottonee has one major trick up its sleeve the other cotton ball lacks: Taunt. Priority Taunt can be extremely aggravating for opposing stall teams to face, and combined with priority Encore and Leech Seed, Cottonee can be quite the menacing little beast. Unfortunately, that's where the good news stops. The RU metagame is utterly hostile towards Cottonee, as the top Pokemon, including Yanmega, Venomoth, Moltres, and hail teams in general, just basically curbstomp the poor puffball.
Dragonair
61 HP / 84 Atk / 65 Def / 70 SpA / 70 SpD / 70 Spe
Dragonair @ Eviolite
Ability: Shed Skin
Nature: Adamant (+Atk, -SpA) or Jolly (+Spe, -SpA)
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
-ExtremeSpeed
-Outrage
-Dragon Dance
-Waterfall
Being a Dragon-type already gives Dragonair a huge niche in the metagame, but combine that with the fact that Dragonair is one of the fastest available and comes with a great ability and huge movepool makes it that much better. ExtremeSpeed is godly in this tier thanks to its ability to beat most other priority users in the tier, such as Sharpedo (though Dragonair doesn't really fear it in the first place). While a DD-boosted Outrage is scary, there are unfortunately plenty of Pokemon that can tank it, especially since Dragonair lacks a Life Orb and Choice Band. Though, Dragonair oftens finds time to set up multiple DDs, so this is remedied somewhat by that. Dragonair also can beat weakened Aggrons (the biggest obstacle to most of the other Dragons) thanks to Waterfall.
Duosion
65 HP / 40 Atk / 50 Def / 125 SpA / 60 SpD / 30 Spe
Duosion @ Eviolite
Ability: Magic Guard
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD
Nature: Bold (+Def, -Atk)
- Calm Mind
- Recover
- Psychic
- Hidden Power Fighting / Shadow Ball
A page taken directly from Reuniclus's book, Duosion's goal is to come in, set up Calm Mind, and tank the opponent to oblivion. The biggest thing Duosion holds over Cresselia is its ability Magic Guard. Thanks to that, it doesn't have to worry about Toxic Spikes or Toxic in general ending its sweep. Duosion's biggest downside is its lack of physical bulk, even with max investment. It'll take a huge chunck of health from Pursuit from Honchkrow and company, and won't like Megahorn from Rhyperior (or even Earthquake for that matter). Keep Duosion protected until the big brutes are out of the picture, and then bring it in to wreak havoc. Interesting side note: with Shadow Ball, this Duosion beats any SubCM Cresselia one-on-one.
Ferroseed
44 HP / 50 Atk / 91 Def / 24 SpA / 86 SpD / 10 Spe
(yes this is c/p'd from my Smog article, stfu)
Ferroseed @ Eviolite
Ability: Iron Barbs
EVs: 252 HP / 4 Def / 252 SpD
Nature: Sassy (+SpD, -Spe)
IVs: 0 Spe
- Stealth Rock / Spikes
- Leech Seed
- Toxic / Protect
- Gyro Ball
With overall defenses only slightly less than that of Ferrothorn, Ferroseed is very durable and its typing is as godly as ever. While using Ferroseed doesn't seem like the best of ideas considering Bug-type attacks score a neutral hit and Entei is rising as a top threat, it does have its uses. Setting up Stealth Rock is needed on every team as long as Yanmega and Venomoth are in the tier. As an added bonus, Ferroseed counters the two most common Rapid Spin users in RU, Blastoise and Claydol. The other moves are for general utility. Leech Seed and Toxic allow Ferroseed to out-stall any Cresselia, and they provide Ferroseed a way to deal Entei a nasty blow as it tries to switch in. Finally, Gyro Ball is there to ensure that Ferroseed isn't complete Taunt bait, and actually scores a nice hit on any Pokemon above a base 48 Speed stat, even with Ferroseed's abysmal Attack stat.
Fraxure
66 HP / 117 Atk / 70 Def / 40 SpA / 50 SpD / 67 Spe
Fraxure @ Eviolite
Ability: Mold Breaker
EVs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
Nature: Jolly (+Spe, -SpA)
- Dragon Dance
- Outrage
- Dragon Claw
- Taunt / Swords Dance
(this is the UU overview)
While most Steel-types are stuck in OU to help check the overpowering Dragon-types there, Dragon-types in RU can often run through teams with their virtually unresisted Dragon-type STAB. Fraxure is a great offensive Dragon Dance user with base 117 Attack, just enough Speed to outspeed key threats such as Yanmega, Dugtrio, and Sceptile, after a boost, and decent bulk with an Eviolite. Despite the greater versatility and coverage of other Dragon-types, such as Kingdra and Altaria, the sheer power of Fraxure's Outrage makes up for its lesser movepool.
Frillish
55 HP / 40 Atk / 50 Def / 65 SpA / 85 SpD / 40 Spe
Frillish @ Eviolite
Ability: Water Absorb
EVs: 252 HP / 4 Def / 252 SpD
Nature: Calm (+SpD, -Atk)
- Will-O-Wisp
- Taunt
- Recover
- Scald / Night Shade
Frillish's success comes not from its stats, but from its typing and movepool. Its typing is pretty godly in this tier and is one of the few Ghost-types available. It works pretty decently as a spinblocker since it threatens and/or walls a good majority of Rapid Spinners, particularly Blastoise and Claydol. But the real thing that Frillish has over most of the other spinblockers in the tier is the combination of Recover and Taunt. Suddenly Venomoth isn't so threatening if you can Taunt it on the switch, and Munchlax becomes utter set up fodder. Just be wary of Frillish's meager Defense stat. Even if you burn a physical attacker with Will-O-Wisp on the switch, attacks from the likes of Medicham are going to hurt like hell.
Gligar
65 HP / 75 Atk / 105 Def / 35 SpA / 65 SpD / 85 Spe
Gligar @ Eviolite
Ability: Hyper Cutter
Nature: Impish (+Def, -SAtk)
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD
- Earthquake
- Toxic
- Roost
- Stealth Rock
Gligar has ridiculous defenses after an Eviolite boost. Its physical defense surpasses 500 and its special defense isn't too shabby with the Eviolite boost, allowing it to take weaker non-stab Ice attacks from the likes of Cresselia. Such massive physical defense allows it to wall a majority of the tier's most threatening physical attackers such as Entei, Medicham, and Rhyperior. Even if your opponent isn't packing one of those, Gligar still finds time to setup the ever-useful Stealth Rock, and can even Toxic stall whole teams with its tremendous bulk and access to Roost.
Golbat
75 HP / 80 Atk / 70 Def / 65 SpA / 75 SpD / 90 Spe
Golbat @ Eviolite
Ability: Inner Focus
EVs: 252 HP / 4 Def / 252 SpD
Nature: Calm (+SpD, -SpA)
- Roost
- Toxic
- Super Fang
- Taunt / Whirlwind
Golbat brings a few unique characteristics to a team. It resists Yanmega's and Venomoth's Bug Buzz even after Tinted Lens, which is a huge boon to any team. It also is pretty fast, making it an ideal stallbreaker for most teams. Golbat can go physically defensive as well to capitalize on its 4x resistance to Fighting-type attacks and immunity to Ground.
Gurdurr
85 HP / 105 Atk / 85 Def / 40 SpA / 50 SpD / 40 Spe
Gurdurr @ Eviolite
Ability: Guts
Nature: Careful (+SpD, -SpA)
EVs: 252 HP / 4 Def / 252 SpD
- Bulk Up
- Mach Punch
- Drain Punch
- Payback
(yes this is the UU analysis Overview)
Gurdurr has good physical bulk, with base stats of 85 in Defense and HP. It also resists Stealth Rock, allowing it to easily enter the field. Although Gurdurr's Special Defense is lacking, with the new Eviolite item its Special Defense can actually reach a maximum of 327. However, with the many offensive special attacking Pokemon in the tier such as Yanmega and Moltres, Gurdurr still has a hard time. It also has a low Speed stat, like most bulky Pokemon, but this is somewhat remedied by Mach Punch, and the lack of Leftovers is covered by Drain Punch. Bulk Up also makes sure that Gurdurr will hit hard with its great base Attack stat of 105, while boosting its already high Defense stat. At the same time, Gurdurr has the ability Guts, making it even more impressive defensively and offensively, as the opponent will be wary of inflicting it with status. Overall, Gurdurr is a dangerous offensive and defensive threat.
Haunter
45 HP / 50 Atk / 45 Def / 115 SpA / 55 SpD / 95 Spe
Haunter @ Life Orb
Ability: Levitate
Nature: Timid (+Spe, -Atk)
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
- Shadow Ball
- Sludge Bomb
- Thunderbolt
- Substitute / Thunder Wave / Taunt
The success of Haunter comes from its awesome speed stat. While it loses out to Entei, it does beat Moltres and unboosted Venomoth, as well as ties with Yanmega. Haunter hits extremely hard with its STAB moves and Thunderbolt alone, and the last slot is almost completely filler. Substitute is the best choice since it protects it from priority moves and from Entei (though Haunter has the neat ability of being able to switch into CB ExtremeSpeeds and set up a Sub). Not only is Haunter a terrifying sweeper, it also make a fantastic offensive spinblocker, since it OHKOs almost every Rapid Spin user in the tier. Aside from a LO set, Haunter can also run a Specs or Scarf set to great success with Trick in the last slot to cripple Munchlax and other would-be counters.
Lampent
60 HP / 40 Atk / 60 Def / 95 SpA / 60 SpD / 55 Spe
Lampent @ Eviolite
Ability: Flash Fire
EVs: 252 HP / 4 Def / 252 SpD
Nature: Calm (+SpD, -Atk)
- Fire Blast / Flamethrower
- Will-O-Wisp / Toxic
- Pain Split
- Night Shade / Protect
Lampent is an interesting choice for a spinblocker and Fire-type in general. Firstly, it devastates both Yanmega and Venomoth with Fire Blast (though it needs to watch out for Sleep Powder), and can tank any hit from Entei bar Stone Edge and retaliate with Night Shade. Lampent also makes a good last ditch switch-in to Moltres thanks to Flash Fire. The only downsides to Lampent are, ironically, its typing and Speed. Its typing leaves it exposed to the multitude of Water-types in the tier, and it actually loses to almost every other Ghost-type one-on-one. A lack of immunity to Ground-type moves also hurts it, as it is then unable to beat Claydol as well.
Machoke
80 HP / 100 Atk / 70 Def / 50 SpA / 60 SpD / 45 Spe
Machoke @ Eviolite
Ability: No Guard
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 4 Def
Nature: Adamant (+Atk, -SpA)
- DynamicPunch
- Payback
- Rest
- Sleep Talk
(yes this is the UU Overview)
Though Machoke's stats are very decent for an NFE Pokemon, giving it great bulk with an Eviolite and good power, No Guard + DynamicPunch is really what sets Machoke apart. DynamicPunch hits quite hard, and is guaranteed to confuse the target. This causes switches, builds up residual damage, and endlessly frustrates the opponent. When you add Payback, Machoke gets perfect neutral coverage. However, the RU metagame is highly hostile to Machoke; there are Ghost-, Bug-, Flying-, and Psychic-types around every corner, and a metagame often centered on Spikes and Rapid Spin does not suit Machoke at all. The combination of Rest and Sleep Talk allows Machoke to circumvent many of its usual problems: its lack of recovery, its vulnerability to status moves, and DynamicPunch's meager 8 PP.
Magmar
65 HP / 95 Atk / 57 Def / 100 SpA / 85 SpD / 93 Spe
Magmar @ Eviolite
Ability: Flame Body
EVs: 252 HP / 4 Def / 252 SpD
Nature: Calm (+SpD, -Atk)
- Lava Plume
- Toxic
- Rest
- Sleep Talk
A Fire-type special wall actually isn't that bad of an idea in RU, considering that the main Water- and Ground-type special attackers, Blastoise and Claydol, have pretty puny offense. Blastoise only manages 25.1% - 29.3% with Scald, for instance, so you can easy Toxic and Rest stall it. It takes 32.6% - 38.6% from a Timid Tinted Lens Choice Specs Yanmega Bug Buzz, meaning even with Stealth Rock down you can switch in and threaten it out. Obviously then, Speed Boost Yanmega is a breeze for Magmar to deal with. While 334 HP and 225 Defense isn't particularly sturdy on the physical side, the burn chance from Flame Body can be handy in a pinch. Don't take Magmar on the offensive though, leave that to its evolution Magmortar.
Magneton
50 HP / 60 Atk / 95 Def / 120 SpA / 70 SpD / 70 Spe
Magneton @ Eviolite
Ability: Magnet Pull
EVs: 252 HP / 80 SpD / 176 Spe
Nature: Calm (+SpD, -Atk)
- Substitute
- Charge Beam
- Hidden Power Fire / Hidden Power Ice
- Magnet Rise / Thunderbolt / Flash Cannon
Steel-types are few and far between in RU, so functioning as a Steel trapper isn't really Magneton's main role. Instead, its goal is to abuse its own awesome Steel/Electric typing and set up on a good portion of the metagame. The best Pokemon to trap is probably Ferroseed, since it can't break your Substitutes with any of its attacks in about 4 hits, and then proceed to raise your Special Attack with Charge Beam. Once Ferroseed is KOed you should still be behind a Sub and can blast your opponent with whatever attack your heart desires. Magneton also makes a good switch into Aggron before a Rock Polish, since it can set up Magnet Rise followed by a Sub, and then blast it with HP Fire or Charge Beam. Against teams that don't have a Steel-type, Magneton's typing still allows it to set up a Sub against multiple Pokemon, and from there it works as a tank. Leftovers can replace the Eviolite here to give Magneton some survivability against hail teams, especially since Magneton's defenses are still decent even without Eviolite.
Misdreavus
60 / 60 / 60 / 85 / 85 / 85
Misdreavus @ Eviolite
Ability: Levitate
EVs: 252 HP / 252 SpD / 4 Spe
Nature: Calm (+SpD, -Atk)
- Shadow Ball / Perish Song
- Will-O-Wisp
- Taunt
- Pain Split
(from the spinning in RU thread)
Missy-D's big selling points are that she has great Special Defense with Eviolite and can utilize Taunt to block Foresight (provided it isn't used when she switches in). With these strengths, she can not only be a great spin blocker but also serve as a stallbreaker, preventing recovery with Taunt and slowly doing damage with Will-O-Wisp and Shadow Ball. Like most Ghost-types, her primary method of recovery is Pain Split, which unfortunately is not the most effective on a pokemon who can only whittle its opponents down slowly. Misdreavus is most useful on defensive teams that need a Taunting spinblocker and don't mind if she has to switch out of strong physical attackers frequently. She also works well with the many Fighting-type weak Wish passers of the tier.
Munchlax
135 HP / 85 Atk / 40 Def / 40 SpA / 85 SpD / 5 Spe
Munchlax @ Eviolite
Ability: Thick Fat
EVs: 252 HP / 4 Def / 252 SpD
Nature: Sassy (+SpD, -Spe)
- Whirlwind
- Sleep Talk
- Rock Slide / Rest
- Body Slam / Return / Toxic
One of the more prominent NFE Pokemon when combined with the Eviolite. The reason behind its popularity can be pretty much summed up to its ability to wall two of the biggest threats in the tier: Yanmega and Venomoth. It also came to popularity thanks to another fantastic trait, its ability Thick Fat, which it allows it to become a last ditch stop to Entei and Moltres. Most Munchlax sets run Sleep Talk so that it can absorb Sleep Powders from Venomoth and Tangela, along with either Whirlwind and Rock Slide. The last slot can go to Body Slam or Return for a good STAB move, or Toxic to spread status.
Murkrow
60 HP / 85 Atk / 42 Def / 85 SpA / 42 SpD / 91 Spe
Murkrow @ Eviolite
Ability: Prankster
Nature: Bold (+Def, -Atk)
EVs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD
- Perish Song
- Mean Look
- Roost
- Taunt / Substitute
(yes this is the first paragraph of the UU analysis)
Murkrow not only has access to Perish Song and Mean Look, but also gets Prankster as an ability. Thus, it can employ the Perish Trap strategy better than many other Pokemon. The general course of action is to use Mean Look to trap a wall that has little offensive prowess, such as Uxie or Claydol. While the opponent is unable to escape, Murkrow can sing its Perish Song and doom the opponent (provided it is not undead). The remaining two turns can be spent Roosting off attacks, in preparation for switching out on the third. Since the wall cannot flee while Murkrow is still in, Perish Song takes effect and KOes it. However, not all plans proceed smoothly, and in some cases it may be wiser to Perish Song first. For example, if your opponent switches to a strong attacker that can threaten to KO Murkrow or set up, using Perish Song first will alleviate the otherwise disadvantageous aftereffects of a fainted Murkrow and a boosted opponent.
Pupitar
70 HP / 84 Atk / 70 Def / 65 SpA / 70 SpD / 51 Spe
Pupitar @ Eviolite
Ability: Shed Skin
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 4 Def
Nature: Adamant (+Atk, -SpA)
- Dragon Dance
- Earthquake
- Stone Edge / Rock Slide
- Rest
Until Hippopotas drops into RU to provide permanent sandstorm and Rhyperior leaves RU, don't expect to see Pupitar very much. But, when that time comes that Hippopotas drops and Rhyperior leaves, Pupitar is going to be one annoying Pokemon to face. Being extremely bulky both physically and specially, having access to a great boosting move and awesome STABs, and being basically immune to status makes Pupitar one tough cookie to crack. Rest provides Pupitar with reliable recovery, and it has a chance of not even lasting a turn thanks to Shed Skin.
Rhydon
105 HP / 130 Atk / 120 Def / 45 SpA / 45 SpD / 40 Spe
Rhydon @ Eviolite
Ability: Rock Head
Nature: Adamant (+Atk, -SpA)
EVs: 216 HP / 252 Atk / 36 Def
- Substitute
- Earthquake
- Stone Edge
- Megahorn / Dragon Tail
While there isn't much reason to use Rhydon now while Rhyperior is still in the tier, there will come a day when he will have to fill his big brother's shoes. Unfortunately, Rhydon lacks Solid Rock to help take super effective hits, but makes up for it by taking neutral and resisted hits a little better. The set is a pretty standard SubPerior set, i.e. come in, set up a Sub, blast the switch in with the appropriate move, rinse and repeat. The EVs are designed to create 101 HP Subs, and max Attack to put the most hurt on the opponent. A more defensive set with an EV spread of 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD and Stealth Rock in place of Substitute can be run as well.
Roselia
50 HP / 60 Atk / 45 Def / 100 SpA / 80 SpD / 65 Spe
Roselia @ Eviolite
Ability: Natural Cure
EVs: 252 HP / 4 SpA / 252 SpD
Nature: Calm (+SpD, -Atk)
- Spikes / Toxic Spikes
- Synthesis / Rest
- Giga Drain
- Sleep Powder / Aromatherapy / Hidden Power Fire
A fantastic choice for a Grass-type and a good alternative to Ferroseed if you're looking for a Spikes user. While Roselia is unfortunately weak to Air Slash from Yanmega, it is able to take on most of the other Pokemon that Ferroseed has trouble against much better. It also has two huge things over Ferroseed: Sleep Powder and somewhat reliable recovery in Synthesis (somewhat due to the presence of rain and hail in the tier) or Natural Cure Rest. Roselia is also able to absorb enemy Toxic Spikes, a huge boon to most teams. The main downside to using Roselia is its extremely disappointing physical defense.
Scyther
70 HP / 110 Atk / 80 Def / 55 SpA / 80 SpD / 105 Spe
Scyther @ Eviolite
Ability: Technician
Nature: Jolly (+Spe, -SpA)
EVs: 216 HP / 40 Atk / 252 Spe
- Swords Dance
- Roost
- Aerial Ace
- Baton Pass / Brick Break
This set's been around for an extremely long time, but Eviolite makes this set viable and RU gives it a new lease on life. Short of status, it can nearly 2HKO anything in the tier after a Swords Dance. It also has a niche of being able to beat Specs Yanmega in a 1v1 situation and it can switch in on Bug Buzz with its awesome SpD, taking about 60% from it. It even has the advantage of Baton Passing out when the going gets rough, particularly when matched up against an Aggron. If that situation comes up, being able to Baton Pass a Swords Dance to a Rock Polish Rhyperior can be "gg" against the opponent.
Shelgon
65 HP / 95 Atk / 100 Def / 60 SpA / 50 SpD / 50 Spe
Shelgon @ Eviolite
Ability: Rock Head
EVs: 252 HP / 4 Atk / 252 SpD
Nature: Impish (+Def, -SpA)
- Dragon Dance
- Outrage / Dragon Claw
- Rest
- Sleep Talk
Tank, tank, tank. Come in, abuse Shelgon's awesome defenses to set up Dragon Dance, blast whatever with Outrage, use Rest when low on health, and use Sleep Talk when asleep. Shelgon hates hail teams and those that abuse Yanmega, but get Shelgon in late in the game, and just watch him plow through the opponent.
Snover
60 HP / 62 Atk / 50 Def / 62 SpA / 60 SpD / 40 Spe
Snover @ Eviolite
Ability: Snow Warning
EVs: 248 HP / 8 Def / 252 SpD
Nature: Calm (+SpD, -Atk)
- Leech Seed
- Toxic / Giga Drain
- Protect
- Blizzard / Wood Hammer
Snover is pretty unique in RU atm thanks to one reason: it provides the only permanent weather in RU. Combine that with a quite a few hail abusers available in the tier, particularly Walrein, Cryogonal, and Glaceon, and you can be sure to see a lot of Snover. Snover loves loves loves Eviolite, because it now enjoys the ability to switch in on basically any specially based Water-type in RU and throw around either Leech Seed or Toxic. Protect is fantastic for prediction with Snover, and Blizzard or Wood Hammer make sure that Snover isn't complete Taunt bait.
Tangela
65 HP / 55 Atk / 115 Def / 100 SpA / 40 SpD / 60 Spe
Tangela @ Eviolite
Ability: Regenerator
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD
Nature: Bold (+Def, -Atk)
- Sleep Powder
- Giga Drain
- Hidden Power Fire
- Leech Seed / Toxic
Tangela gained a lot of popularity as being one of the most physically defensive Pokemon available in the tier with Eviolite attached. While it may not seem like a good idea to run it like for the same reasons as Ferroseed, it's actually a solid choice to block Rhyperior and Aggron from sweeping you, as well as stomp any Water-type not packing Ice Beam.
Tentacool
40 HP / 40 Atk / 35 Def / 50 SpA / 100 SpD / 70 Spe
Tentacool @ Eviolite
Ability: Liquid Ooze
Nature: Calm (+SpD, -Atk)
EVs: 252 HP / 252 SpD / 4 Spe
- Toxic Spikes
- Rapid Spin
- Surf / Scald
- Knock Off / Ice Beam
Tentacool is a pretty cool Poke. While it has almost no offensive presence, it performs three unique roles in one Pokemon: Rapid Spinner, Toxic Spikes absorber, and Toxic Spikes supporter. It's also really bulky on the special side and walls nearly any Grass- or Water-type in the tier. Unfortunately, Tetacool lacks any form of recovery, so it must be used extra cautiously. Don't under any circumstances throw Tentacool into a match up where the opponent might use a physical move or it's game over for the poor jellyfish. Knock Off is a nice filler move to rid the enemy of their precious Eviolite or Leftovers, or maybe even LO/Specs/Scarf/CB.
Togetic
55 HP / 40 Atk / 85 Def / 80 SpA / 105 SpD / 40 Spe
Togetic @ Eviolite
Ability: Serene Grace
EVs: 252 HP / 4 Def / 252 SpD
Nature: Calm (+SpD, -Atk)
- Nasty Plot
- Roost
- Heal Bell / Baton Pass
- Hidden Power Flying
The beauty of Togetic stems from its ability to completely tank any hit from Yanmega and Venomoth, even after Stealth Rock damage. From there Togetic can perform as a cleric with Heal Bell, heal off the damage with Roost, or set up a Nasty Plot to either put a good dent in the opponent or Baton Pass the boost to a partner. The main downsides to using Togetic is its truly abysmal Speed, and its slight frailness on the physical side unless it's heavily invested in.
Vigoroth
80 HP / 80 Atk / 80 Def / 55 SpA / 55 SpD / 90 Spe
Vigoroth @ Eviolite
Ability: Vital Spirit
EVs: 252 HP / 4 Atk / 252 Def
Nature: Impish (+Def, -SpA)
- Bulk Up
- Slack Off
- Body Slam / Return
- Shadow Claw / Encore
Vigoroth is extremely bulky on the physical side, and can find time to set up Bulk Up on even the strongest physical attackers in the tier. Unfortunately, Vigoroth is very lacking in Special Defense, which in a tier filled to the brim with special threats like Yanmega and Moltres, isn't a great trait to have. Though, Vigoroth makes a very good last stand Pokemon and late-game cleaner. Encore and Slack Off and an immunity to sleep are what really separate Vigoroth from the pack.
Wynaut
95 HP / 23 Atk / 48 Def / 23 SpA / 48 SpD / 23 Spe
Wynaut @ Eviolite
Ability: Shadow Tag
EVs: 152 HP / 200 Def / 156 SpD
Nature: Calm (+SpD, -Atk)
- Counter
- Mirror Coat
- Encore
- Tickle / Safeguard
A pretty straightforward set that lets Wynaut trap and kill certain threats to your team, such as Gallade or Magmortar. However, the RU metagame is extremely unkind to the poor blue blob. Yanmega and the other Bugs completely destroy it, even if Wynaut runs max Speed Cresselia still outruns it, and there are a ton of Dark-type Pursuiters in the tier that can OHKO Wynaut. Not to mention that Hitmonlee can devastate it with Double-Edge, and Rhyperior OHKOes with Megahorn. It can still be useful to turn more defensive Pokemon such as Ferroseed into set up fodder, but for now Wynaut has a pretty tough time.
Zweilous
72 HP / 85 Atk / 70 Def / 65 SpA / 70 SpD / 58 Spe
Zweilous @ Eviolite
Ability: Hustle
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 4 Def
Nature: Adamant (+Atk, -SpA)
- Outrage
- Crunch
- Fire Fang
- Thunder Wave / Toxic / Dragon Tail
(yes this is the Overview from the UU analysis stfu)
When asked which Pokemon has the most powerful Outrage in the game, very few people would answer correctly. No, it's not Haxorus, and neither is it Zekrom or Rayquaza. As you may by now have guessed, the answer is indeed Zweilous; thanks to a decent base 85 Attack and Hustle, it has the equivalent of over 150 base Attack with full investment. With few viable Steel-types in the metagame, it is clear what sort of damage this Outrage can do. Let's not forget that Zweilous also has the game's most powerful Crunch, letting it destroy many of UU's Ghost- and Psychic-type behemoths. Unfortunately, the good news pretty much ends there. Zweilous is quite slow, with base 58 Speed, and is not especially bulky naturally. This means that it will die very fast by locking itself into Outrage. Even worse is Zweilous's movepool. Oh come on, surely it gets Dragon Claw? How about Dragon Dance? Hone Claws, Pursuit, Sucker Punch, Earthquake, or Fire Punch? The extent of Zweilous's useful movepool outside of Outrage and Crunch is Fire Fang, Dragon Tail, and Thunder Wave. This is not to mention Hustle's nasty side-effect either: all of its physical moves are reduced to 80% of their normal accuracy, which is truly infuriating; at best, its attacks are as reliable as the infamous Stone Edge. Bearing all of this in mind, it is very difficult to use Zweilous in a truly offensive role. Much more effective is an Eviolite tank set, as Zweilous's defensive stats become more than passable; Zweilous can then afford the occasional miss, and can afford not to outrun the opponent. This combination of power and bulk, along with a unique and useful typing, makes Zweilous a truly viable Pokemon in RU.
