[Overview]
Yveltal is the most used Pokemon in SS Ubers and an essential part of the metagame. It is by far the most reliable check to Calyrex-S, with Calyrex-S having to rely on Trick, status, and passive damage to defeat it. It is the most common Defogger in a metagame sorely lacking them, and Yveltal's Knock Off limits switch-ins to the point that most teams have a dedicated Knock Off switch-in just for it. Utility options such as U-turn and Taunt give fantastic momentum, and Yveltal has useful revenge killing options in Choice Scarf sets, Sucker Punch, and Foul Play. Additionally, the right team support frees Yveltal up to use one of its devastating offensive sets; boosted by Hone Claws or Choice Band in addition to Dark Aura, Knock Off becomes a terrifying move to switch into. Overall, nearly every serious team should strongly consider having Yveltal.
[SET]
name: Fast Utility
move 1: Knock Off / Foul Play
move 2: Taunt / Toxic / Knock Off
move 3: Defog / Toxic
move 4: Roost
item: Heavy-Duty Boots
ability: Dark Aura
nature: Jolly / Timid
evs: 16 HP / 240 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
This set puts a great focus on Speed while still switching into Calyrex-S relatively well thanks to its Special Defense investment. The Speed investment allows Yveltal to check certain threats it wouldn't be able to otherwise, as well as more viably run some useful utility options. Knock Off is a strong attack and provides nice team support. Foul Play allows Yveltal to revenge kill Pokemon such as Groudon and Rayquaza, and it will do massive damage even to uninvested Necrozma-DM sets. Taunt prevents Pokemon like Ferrothorn and Eternatus from gaining momentum against Yveltal, and it is generally useful against stall and bulky teams. Taunt is also good against SubSeed Calyrex-S sets, provided they don't get the chance to boost too much with Nasty Plot. Toxic is a great move to catch an opposing Yveltal or Buzzwole off guard, making Yveltal a good check to opposing offensive Yveltal. This set is a fantastic user of Defog, and it's especially useful against Sticky Webs teams, outspeeding Pokemon such as Kyogre and Xerneas. Roost provides reliable recovery, and it removing Yveltal's Flying typing can come in handy against Groudon. Heavy-Duty Boots is mandatory to make Yveltal a reliable user of Defog. Jolly is the preferred nature if you are running Knock Off; otherwise, run Timid. An alternative EV spread for either nature is 72 HP / 252 SpD / 184 Spe to have more bulk and still outspeed fully invested base 90 Speed Pokemon. If you desire even more bulk, use a Careful nature instead, and Yveltal will still outspeed neutral nature base 90 Speed Pokemon. With these EVs, U-turn becomes a viable option in the second moveslot.
Compared to a more defensive set, the Speed investment is great for using Defog against Sticky Web teams, as Yveltal is immune to Sticky Web, but the lost bulk means it is unable to check Focus Sash Nasty Plot Calyrex-S. In general, Foul Play, Taunt, and Toxic all function much better when Yveltal has Speed investment. Foul Play allows you to have more security against Groudon and Necrozma-DM, which is especially appreciated for teammates such as Zygarde, which may get pressured by Swords Dance sets of both. Ho-Oh makes a good teammate, as it provides a backup check to Calyrex-S while also bringing Defog support. This allows Yveltal to run Taunt and Toxic together, making for a very effective stallbreaker. Necrozma-DM can switch into the Eternatus this set will attract. Groudon, Zygarde, and Zekrom are good teammates that can pivot into opposing Necrozma-DM without fear of paralysis. Blissey functions a solid secondary check to Calyrex-S, including SubSeed sets, and it can also provide much-appreciated cleric and status support.
[SET]
name: Specially Defensive
move 1: Knock Off
move 2: U-turn / Snarl / Sucker Punch
move 3: Defog / Sucker Punch
move 4: Roost
item: Heavy-Duty Boots
ability: Dark Aura
nature: Careful
evs: 248 HP / 72 Def / 184 SpD
[SET COMMENTS]
This is Yveltal's bulkiest set, giving it the most flexibility to deal with Choice Specs and Nasty Plot Calyrex-S. Knock Off is Yveltal's most reliable STAB attack, and it provides fantastic team support. U-turn is a great option to gain momentum against Pokemon like Eternatus, Buzzwole, Zarude, and Tangrowth, which are commonly used to take Knock Off and wall Yveltal. U-turn works well with this set's nonexistent Speed investment, giving you advantageous switches more often. Snarl guarantees that Yveltal will beat all SubSeed Calyrex-S sets. It also is useful against Calm Mind Kyogre when paired with Mystical Fire Eternatus. Sucker Punch can be run to make Yveltal a decent revenge killer, which is greatly appreciated on teams that would otherwise lack a Choice Scarf or priority user. Defog provides invaluable team support, and on many teams, Yveltal is the only viable user of it. If you happen to be running another Defog user such as Ho-Oh, Sucker Punch could be run instead. Heavy-Duty Boots ensures that Yveltal will take no damage from Stealth Rock. The HP and Special Defense investment prevents Nasty Plot Calyrex-S from 2HKOing Yveltal with Draining Kiss or Choice Specs Calyrex-S from 3HKOing it with Astral Barrage. 72 Defense EVs are useful for pivoting on Marshadow, preventing Life Orb-boosted Poltergeist followed by Rock Tomb from KOing Yveltal. If you are running U-turn, 248 HP / 72 Atk / 184 SpD can be run for a chance to break SubSeed Calyrex-S's Substitute with one U-turn. Even more Attack investment could be used: invested U-turn, in combination with a revenge killer such as Choice Scarf Calyrex-S or Shadow Sneak Marshadow, can form an adequate defense against SubSeed Calyrex-S. If Marshadow and SubSeed Calyrex-S are not of concern, Yveltal can use maximum Special Defense investment.
This Yveltal will fit on any team archetype outside of hyper offense. While this set counters Calyrex-S, you must be careful about keeping Yveltal healthy. Status effects and Stealth Rock damage, if Yveltal loses its item, can potentially whittle it down enough for Calyrex-S to power through. Additionally, Yveltal receiving a Choice item through Trick can easily force you into dangerous situations. For example, if Yveltal faces Calyrex-S and needs to use Roost to check it the next time it comes in, the opponent can predict that, stay in, and use Nasty Plot. For teammates, Eternatus and Necrozma-DM form the classic core of SS Ubers with Yveltal. Eternatus checks Kyogre, absorbs Knock Off and Toxic, and can even be a backup check to Calyrex-S thanks to its special bulk and Pressure. Necrozma-DM checks the Ice-types, Eternatus, and Xerneas that will force Yveltal out, and it provides status and entry hazard support. Checks to Ground-types, such as Buzzwole, Tangrowth, and Zarude, synergize very well with the aforementioned Pokemon, giving your team checks to the vast majority of threats in the metagame. Ho-Oh can provide its own Defog support to free up Yveltal's third moveslot; Ho-Oh also has an excellent matchup against Necrozma-DM, which is the most common Stealth Rock setter in the metagame and can often cripple Yveltal for using Defog on it thanks to Thunder Wave and Iron Head. Other helpful Necrozma-DM switch-ins are Groudon, Zygarde, Zekrom, and Kyogre. Marshadow and Calyrex-S are good revenge killers, and they pair particularly well with U-turn Yveltal as insurance against SubSeed Calyrex-S; Calyrex-S may also provide Aromatherapy support, as can Blissey, which can be critical to keeping opposing Calyrex-S at bay if Yveltal gets poisoned or paralyzed.
[SET]
name: Hone Claws
move 1: Hone Claws
move 2: Knock Off
move 3: Sucker Punch / Roost
move 4: Acrobatics / Roost
item: Life Orb / Black Glasses
ability: Dark Aura
nature: Adamant
evs: 252 Atk / 72 SpD / 184 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
With Hone Claws raising its Attack, Yveltal becomes a devastating wallbreaker. At +1, a Dark Aura-boosted Knock Off is something that almost no Pokemon will like switching into. The most common Knock Off switch-in in the metagame, Eternatus, has a 93.8% chance to be OHKOed by a +1 Life Orb-boosted Knock Off. Sucker Punch provides an invaluable priority option, letting Yveltal still check Calyrex-S in a pinch. Acrobatics hits Dark-resistant Pokemon such as Buzzwole and Zarude super effectively. In addition, it becomes very strong if Yveltal takes a Knock Off. An alternative option is Roost, which will greatly boost this set's longevity at the cost of coverage. The given Speed EVs beat fully-invested neutral nature base 90 Pokemon such as Kyogre, with the rest of the EVs dumped into Special Defense to better take hits from Calyrex-S. Life Orb will give Yveltal the most power, making +1 Knock Off on Eternatus a much more favorable roll to OHKO. Black Glasses is an alternative option that still makes Yveltal's Dark-type attacks hit incredibly hard while maintaining much more bulk over time.
This set can fit on much fewer teams than most defensive sets due to it not reliably checking Calyrex-S. Therefore, alternative checks to Calyrex-S are a must as teammates. Zarude checks not only Calyrex-S but also Groudon and Zygarde, both of which can check this Yveltal set. Ho-Oh is useful for providing Defog support, which this set lacks, and also for pivoting Calyrex-S and Xerneas. Both aforementioned teammates appreciate Yveltal being able to lure and KO Eternatus. Blissey provides another Calyrex-S check as well as its valuable Aromatherapy and Wish support. For Black Glasses sets, Tyranitar has nice synergy, as the damage from sand can put Eternatus into OHKO range of a +1 Knock Off. Additionally, sand hindering Yveltal's ability to check Calyrex-S is not a problem because Tyranitar checks it much more safely. Xatu can be used to prevent Stealth Rock from being laid on the field.
[SET]
name: Special Attacker
move 1: Dark Pulse
move 2: Oblivion Wing
move 3: Taunt / Sucker Punch
move 4: Sucker Punch / Rock Slide
item: Life Orb
ability: Dark Aura
nature: Hasty
evs: 4 Atk / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
This Yveltal set is seen most commonly on hyper offense builds, as these teams otherwise have trouble dealing with Calyrex-S. Therefore, it's designed to keep up offensive momentum. By focusing mostly on Special Attack, Yveltal can use its powerful Oblivion Wing to heal and attack at the same time, minimizing the effect of Life Orb recoil. Taunt prevents opposing Yveltal and Ho-Oh from using Defog, keeping up Sticky Web or other entry hazards up. Sucker Punch provides Yveltal with a strong physical attack, and its priority is very useful for keeping Calyrex-S at bay. Rock Slide is an alternative option for Yveltal to lure Ho-Oh into taking a Dark Pulse before KOing it. Rock Slide is also useful against opposing Yveltal. The given EV spread and nature let Yveltal outspeed and use Taunt against most opposing Yveltal.
This Yveltal is a mainstay of hyper offense teams, so it will work great with suicide leads such as Slurpuff, Froslass, Galvantula, Shuckle, and Aerodactyl. Necrozma-DM makes a fantastic partner, as it switches into Eternatus and Xerneas, which wall Yveltal. Offensive Eternatus and Naganadel can absorb Toxic Spikes, which can be very threatening to hyper offense teams, and they also appreciate Yveltal KOing Ho-Oh with Rock Slide. Strong wallbreakers such as Groudon, Zekrom, and Marshadow are great teammates for putting the pressure on bulky teams. Additional Calyrex-S checks are appreciated, especially if you drop Sucker Punch. Marshadow, Urshifu-S, Grimmsnarl, and Hydreigon work well for this role.
[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Foul Play
move 2: Roost / Oblivion Wing
move 3: U-turn / Knock Off
move 4: Defog
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Dark Aura
nature: Jolly / Hasty
evs: 252 HP / 72 SpD / 184 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Choice Scarf Yveltal makes for a decent revenge killer while also providing some powerful and unique utility. For one, it provides quite possibly the most airtight defense against Sticky Web teams, as it is immune to the entry hazard and can use Defog without fear of being hit by Taunt. Secondly, Yveltal doesn't fear Trick from Choice Scarf Calyrex-S. Foul Play is a strong STAB option, letting Yveltal revenge kill Zekrom, Groudon, Marshadow, offensive Necrozma-DM, and Calyrex-S with ease. Thanks to Foul Play, Yveltal has the luxury of investing into its bulk instead of its attacking stats. While Roost syncs poorly with Choice Scarf, Yveltal often forces out Calyrex-S, giving it ample opportunities to heal off residual damage. Oblivion Wing is a less passive healing option that has the bonus of letting Yveltal lure in and KO common switch-ins such as Buzzwole and Tangrowth. However, its healing will be much less consistent. U-turn is a great option to gain momentum from obvious switches to Pokemon such as Eternatus and Xerneas, while Knock Off provides utility in removing items and is a secondary STAB option against Pokemon that take minimal damage from Foul Play such as Blissey. Finally, Defog ruins Sticky Web and other hyper offense teams that rely on entry hazards. The given EVs let Yveltal outspeed +1 positive nature base 90 Pokemon, such as Dragon Dance Zekrom. The rest of the EVs are dumped into HP and Special Defense to better handle Calyrex-S. Hasty should be chosen if you are running Oblivion Wing; otherwise, use Jolly.
This Yveltal fits best on teams that lack a revenge killer, like Choice Scarf Calyrex-S or Shadow Sneak Marshadow, or want to win the Sticky Web matchup. Ho-Oh is a near-mandatory partner, as this Yveltal lacks Heavy-Duty Boots and thus cannot consistently use Defog against Stealth Rock users. Necrozma-DM and Blissey can both switch into Eternatus and Xerneas while providing Stealth Rock and paralysis support. Blissey can also function as a cleric and Wish passer. A Knock Off switch-in such as Eternatus, Buzzwole, Tangrowth, or Zarude is needed, as this set loses all revenge killing capability without Choice Scarf.
[SET]
name: Choice Band
move 1: Knock Off
move 2: Dual Wingbeat / U-turn
move 3: U-turn / Roost
move 4: Sucker Punch / U-turn
item: Choice Band
ability: Dark Aura
nature: Adamant / Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 72 SpD / 184 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Choice Band Yveltal makes for a surprise wallbreaking set thanks its powerful Knock Off. It 2HKOes all Eternatus except physically defensive sets on the switch, preventing it from absorbing Knock Off, which means Yveltal can very effectively get rid of items on the opposing team. Dual Wingbeat is a strong secondary STAB option that will demolish typical walls to Yveltal such as Zarude, Buzzwole, and Tangrowth. Notably, it makes this Yveltal able to check SubSeed Calyrex-S. U-turn becomes a quite strong momentum option should this set be successful in KOing Eternatus. An alternative is Roost, which lets this set check Calyrex-S much more reliably. Sucker Punch becomes an incredibly powerful revenge killing option when boosted by both Choice Band and Dark Aura. As a bonus, Choice Band gives Calyrex-S one of its worst possible items should it decide to use Trick. The given Speed investment is used to beat either neutral or positive nature base 90 Speed Pokemon with full Speed investment, depending on Yveltal’s nature. Should specially defensive Eternatus successfully heal after losing its item, Adamant Yveltal will still always 2HKO with Knock Off despite the power drop, while Jolly only gives a 53% chance to. However, Jolly is useful for Yveltal to outspeed positive nature base 90 Pokemon such as Zekrom and Choice Specs Kyogre.
This Yveltal needs quite a bit of team support to function properly. Ho-Oh is greatly appreciated for providing Defog and checking Calyrex-S and Xerneas. Blissey is another Calyrex-S check that can provide entry hazard, paralysis, cleric, and Wish support. Pokemon that love Eternatus being gone or heavily damaged, such as Marshadow, Buzzwole, and Zarude, are synergistic teammates. Marshadow and Zarude can act as secondary checks to Calyrex-S, and Zarude and Buzzwole can deal with defensive Ground-types like Groudon, Zygarde, and Landorus-T. Xatu is another possible teammate that can help prevent Stealth Rock from being laid down.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
====
Oblivion Wing can be used on either the Specially Defensive or the Fast Utility set to let Yveltal lure in and KO Buzzwole or Tangrowth. An offensive set consisting of Knock Off, Sucker Punch, and U-turn with Black Glasses is an option in between the Specially Defensive and Hone Claws sets, but generally you are better off just using one of those two sets. Block can be used to trap opposing Pokemon to Toxic stall, such as opposing Yveltal. However, this is unreliable due to many Yveltal running U-turn or Taunt. Items such as Iron Ball can turn the tables on Calyrex-S using Trick, but these are gimmick options that are inferior to Heavy-Duty Boots.
Checks and Counters
====
**Eternatus**: Eternatus is the most common Knock Off switch-in in the metagame, and it usually has little to fear from Yveltal. Offensive sets can KO many Eternatus, but physically defensive Eternatus has little issue walling even these sets.
**Xerneas**: Defensive Xerneas has little to fear from nearly all of Yveltal's options. Geomancy Xerneas cannot switch in recklessly, lest it lose its Power Herb, but it can otherwise easily force Yveltal out.
**Knock Off Absorbers**: Buzzwole, Zamazenta-C, and Tangrowth can take Knock Off very well and wall any Yveltal set lacking Flying-type coverage. Zarude can wall sets that lack U-turn or a Flying-type move. Toxapex can typically wall most Yveltal and stay healthy with Regenerator.
**Status and Residual Damage**: Paralysis, poison, burn, and Stealth Rock all significantly limit Yveltal's ability to check Calyrex-S and other threats.
**Opposing Yveltal**: The more defensive Yveltal sets can beat the offensive Yveltal sets with the right moves, such as Toxic and Foul Play.
**Defensive Tanks**: While none of them love switching into Knock Off, Pokemon such as Zygarde, Groudon, Necrozma-DM, and Zekrom can threaten Yveltal significantly with their strong physical attacks or status moves. Sets such as Bulk Up Groudon and Dragon Dance Necrozma-DM can take advantage of teams that rely on Foul Play Yveltal to check them.
[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Manaphy, 50695]]
- Quality checked by: [[SiTuM, 274590], [Minority, 222996]]
- Grammar checked by: [[Finland, 517429], [Astra, 240732]]
Yveltal is the most used Pokemon in SS Ubers and an essential part of the metagame. It is by far the most reliable check to Calyrex-S, with Calyrex-S having to rely on Trick, status, and passive damage to defeat it. It is the most common Defogger in a metagame sorely lacking them, and Yveltal's Knock Off limits switch-ins to the point that most teams have a dedicated Knock Off switch-in just for it. Utility options such as U-turn and Taunt give fantastic momentum, and Yveltal has useful revenge killing options in Choice Scarf sets, Sucker Punch, and Foul Play. Additionally, the right team support frees Yveltal up to use one of its devastating offensive sets; boosted by Hone Claws or Choice Band in addition to Dark Aura, Knock Off becomes a terrifying move to switch into. Overall, nearly every serious team should strongly consider having Yveltal.
[SET]
name: Fast Utility
move 1: Knock Off / Foul Play
move 2: Taunt / Toxic / Knock Off
move 3: Defog / Toxic
move 4: Roost
item: Heavy-Duty Boots
ability: Dark Aura
nature: Jolly / Timid
evs: 16 HP / 240 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
This set puts a great focus on Speed while still switching into Calyrex-S relatively well thanks to its Special Defense investment. The Speed investment allows Yveltal to check certain threats it wouldn't be able to otherwise, as well as more viably run some useful utility options. Knock Off is a strong attack and provides nice team support. Foul Play allows Yveltal to revenge kill Pokemon such as Groudon and Rayquaza, and it will do massive damage even to uninvested Necrozma-DM sets. Taunt prevents Pokemon like Ferrothorn and Eternatus from gaining momentum against Yveltal, and it is generally useful against stall and bulky teams. Taunt is also good against SubSeed Calyrex-S sets, provided they don't get the chance to boost too much with Nasty Plot. Toxic is a great move to catch an opposing Yveltal or Buzzwole off guard, making Yveltal a good check to opposing offensive Yveltal. This set is a fantastic user of Defog, and it's especially useful against Sticky Webs teams, outspeeding Pokemon such as Kyogre and Xerneas. Roost provides reliable recovery, and it removing Yveltal's Flying typing can come in handy against Groudon. Heavy-Duty Boots is mandatory to make Yveltal a reliable user of Defog. Jolly is the preferred nature if you are running Knock Off; otherwise, run Timid. An alternative EV spread for either nature is 72 HP / 252 SpD / 184 Spe to have more bulk and still outspeed fully invested base 90 Speed Pokemon. If you desire even more bulk, use a Careful nature instead, and Yveltal will still outspeed neutral nature base 90 Speed Pokemon. With these EVs, U-turn becomes a viable option in the second moveslot.
Compared to a more defensive set, the Speed investment is great for using Defog against Sticky Web teams, as Yveltal is immune to Sticky Web, but the lost bulk means it is unable to check Focus Sash Nasty Plot Calyrex-S. In general, Foul Play, Taunt, and Toxic all function much better when Yveltal has Speed investment. Foul Play allows you to have more security against Groudon and Necrozma-DM, which is especially appreciated for teammates such as Zygarde, which may get pressured by Swords Dance sets of both. Ho-Oh makes a good teammate, as it provides a backup check to Calyrex-S while also bringing Defog support. This allows Yveltal to run Taunt and Toxic together, making for a very effective stallbreaker. Necrozma-DM can switch into the Eternatus this set will attract. Groudon, Zygarde, and Zekrom are good teammates that can pivot into opposing Necrozma-DM without fear of paralysis. Blissey functions a solid secondary check to Calyrex-S, including SubSeed sets, and it can also provide much-appreciated cleric and status support.
[SET]
name: Specially Defensive
move 1: Knock Off
move 2: U-turn / Snarl / Sucker Punch
move 3: Defog / Sucker Punch
move 4: Roost
item: Heavy-Duty Boots
ability: Dark Aura
nature: Careful
evs: 248 HP / 72 Def / 184 SpD
[SET COMMENTS]
This is Yveltal's bulkiest set, giving it the most flexibility to deal with Choice Specs and Nasty Plot Calyrex-S. Knock Off is Yveltal's most reliable STAB attack, and it provides fantastic team support. U-turn is a great option to gain momentum against Pokemon like Eternatus, Buzzwole, Zarude, and Tangrowth, which are commonly used to take Knock Off and wall Yveltal. U-turn works well with this set's nonexistent Speed investment, giving you advantageous switches more often. Snarl guarantees that Yveltal will beat all SubSeed Calyrex-S sets. It also is useful against Calm Mind Kyogre when paired with Mystical Fire Eternatus. Sucker Punch can be run to make Yveltal a decent revenge killer, which is greatly appreciated on teams that would otherwise lack a Choice Scarf or priority user. Defog provides invaluable team support, and on many teams, Yveltal is the only viable user of it. If you happen to be running another Defog user such as Ho-Oh, Sucker Punch could be run instead. Heavy-Duty Boots ensures that Yveltal will take no damage from Stealth Rock. The HP and Special Defense investment prevents Nasty Plot Calyrex-S from 2HKOing Yveltal with Draining Kiss or Choice Specs Calyrex-S from 3HKOing it with Astral Barrage. 72 Defense EVs are useful for pivoting on Marshadow, preventing Life Orb-boosted Poltergeist followed by Rock Tomb from KOing Yveltal. If you are running U-turn, 248 HP / 72 Atk / 184 SpD can be run for a chance to break SubSeed Calyrex-S's Substitute with one U-turn. Even more Attack investment could be used: invested U-turn, in combination with a revenge killer such as Choice Scarf Calyrex-S or Shadow Sneak Marshadow, can form an adequate defense against SubSeed Calyrex-S. If Marshadow and SubSeed Calyrex-S are not of concern, Yveltal can use maximum Special Defense investment.
This Yveltal will fit on any team archetype outside of hyper offense. While this set counters Calyrex-S, you must be careful about keeping Yveltal healthy. Status effects and Stealth Rock damage, if Yveltal loses its item, can potentially whittle it down enough for Calyrex-S to power through. Additionally, Yveltal receiving a Choice item through Trick can easily force you into dangerous situations. For example, if Yveltal faces Calyrex-S and needs to use Roost to check it the next time it comes in, the opponent can predict that, stay in, and use Nasty Plot. For teammates, Eternatus and Necrozma-DM form the classic core of SS Ubers with Yveltal. Eternatus checks Kyogre, absorbs Knock Off and Toxic, and can even be a backup check to Calyrex-S thanks to its special bulk and Pressure. Necrozma-DM checks the Ice-types, Eternatus, and Xerneas that will force Yveltal out, and it provides status and entry hazard support. Checks to Ground-types, such as Buzzwole, Tangrowth, and Zarude, synergize very well with the aforementioned Pokemon, giving your team checks to the vast majority of threats in the metagame. Ho-Oh can provide its own Defog support to free up Yveltal's third moveslot; Ho-Oh also has an excellent matchup against Necrozma-DM, which is the most common Stealth Rock setter in the metagame and can often cripple Yveltal for using Defog on it thanks to Thunder Wave and Iron Head. Other helpful Necrozma-DM switch-ins are Groudon, Zygarde, Zekrom, and Kyogre. Marshadow and Calyrex-S are good revenge killers, and they pair particularly well with U-turn Yveltal as insurance against SubSeed Calyrex-S; Calyrex-S may also provide Aromatherapy support, as can Blissey, which can be critical to keeping opposing Calyrex-S at bay if Yveltal gets poisoned or paralyzed.
[SET]
name: Hone Claws
move 1: Hone Claws
move 2: Knock Off
move 3: Sucker Punch / Roost
move 4: Acrobatics / Roost
item: Life Orb / Black Glasses
ability: Dark Aura
nature: Adamant
evs: 252 Atk / 72 SpD / 184 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
With Hone Claws raising its Attack, Yveltal becomes a devastating wallbreaker. At +1, a Dark Aura-boosted Knock Off is something that almost no Pokemon will like switching into. The most common Knock Off switch-in in the metagame, Eternatus, has a 93.8% chance to be OHKOed by a +1 Life Orb-boosted Knock Off. Sucker Punch provides an invaluable priority option, letting Yveltal still check Calyrex-S in a pinch. Acrobatics hits Dark-resistant Pokemon such as Buzzwole and Zarude super effectively. In addition, it becomes very strong if Yveltal takes a Knock Off. An alternative option is Roost, which will greatly boost this set's longevity at the cost of coverage. The given Speed EVs beat fully-invested neutral nature base 90 Pokemon such as Kyogre, with the rest of the EVs dumped into Special Defense to better take hits from Calyrex-S. Life Orb will give Yveltal the most power, making +1 Knock Off on Eternatus a much more favorable roll to OHKO. Black Glasses is an alternative option that still makes Yveltal's Dark-type attacks hit incredibly hard while maintaining much more bulk over time.
This set can fit on much fewer teams than most defensive sets due to it not reliably checking Calyrex-S. Therefore, alternative checks to Calyrex-S are a must as teammates. Zarude checks not only Calyrex-S but also Groudon and Zygarde, both of which can check this Yveltal set. Ho-Oh is useful for providing Defog support, which this set lacks, and also for pivoting Calyrex-S and Xerneas. Both aforementioned teammates appreciate Yveltal being able to lure and KO Eternatus. Blissey provides another Calyrex-S check as well as its valuable Aromatherapy and Wish support. For Black Glasses sets, Tyranitar has nice synergy, as the damage from sand can put Eternatus into OHKO range of a +1 Knock Off. Additionally, sand hindering Yveltal's ability to check Calyrex-S is not a problem because Tyranitar checks it much more safely. Xatu can be used to prevent Stealth Rock from being laid on the field.
[SET]
name: Special Attacker
move 1: Dark Pulse
move 2: Oblivion Wing
move 3: Taunt / Sucker Punch
move 4: Sucker Punch / Rock Slide
item: Life Orb
ability: Dark Aura
nature: Hasty
evs: 4 Atk / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
This Yveltal set is seen most commonly on hyper offense builds, as these teams otherwise have trouble dealing with Calyrex-S. Therefore, it's designed to keep up offensive momentum. By focusing mostly on Special Attack, Yveltal can use its powerful Oblivion Wing to heal and attack at the same time, minimizing the effect of Life Orb recoil. Taunt prevents opposing Yveltal and Ho-Oh from using Defog, keeping up Sticky Web or other entry hazards up. Sucker Punch provides Yveltal with a strong physical attack, and its priority is very useful for keeping Calyrex-S at bay. Rock Slide is an alternative option for Yveltal to lure Ho-Oh into taking a Dark Pulse before KOing it. Rock Slide is also useful against opposing Yveltal. The given EV spread and nature let Yveltal outspeed and use Taunt against most opposing Yveltal.
This Yveltal is a mainstay of hyper offense teams, so it will work great with suicide leads such as Slurpuff, Froslass, Galvantula, Shuckle, and Aerodactyl. Necrozma-DM makes a fantastic partner, as it switches into Eternatus and Xerneas, which wall Yveltal. Offensive Eternatus and Naganadel can absorb Toxic Spikes, which can be very threatening to hyper offense teams, and they also appreciate Yveltal KOing Ho-Oh with Rock Slide. Strong wallbreakers such as Groudon, Zekrom, and Marshadow are great teammates for putting the pressure on bulky teams. Additional Calyrex-S checks are appreciated, especially if you drop Sucker Punch. Marshadow, Urshifu-S, Grimmsnarl, and Hydreigon work well for this role.
[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Foul Play
move 2: Roost / Oblivion Wing
move 3: U-turn / Knock Off
move 4: Defog
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Dark Aura
nature: Jolly / Hasty
evs: 252 HP / 72 SpD / 184 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Choice Scarf Yveltal makes for a decent revenge killer while also providing some powerful and unique utility. For one, it provides quite possibly the most airtight defense against Sticky Web teams, as it is immune to the entry hazard and can use Defog without fear of being hit by Taunt. Secondly, Yveltal doesn't fear Trick from Choice Scarf Calyrex-S. Foul Play is a strong STAB option, letting Yveltal revenge kill Zekrom, Groudon, Marshadow, offensive Necrozma-DM, and Calyrex-S with ease. Thanks to Foul Play, Yveltal has the luxury of investing into its bulk instead of its attacking stats. While Roost syncs poorly with Choice Scarf, Yveltal often forces out Calyrex-S, giving it ample opportunities to heal off residual damage. Oblivion Wing is a less passive healing option that has the bonus of letting Yveltal lure in and KO common switch-ins such as Buzzwole and Tangrowth. However, its healing will be much less consistent. U-turn is a great option to gain momentum from obvious switches to Pokemon such as Eternatus and Xerneas, while Knock Off provides utility in removing items and is a secondary STAB option against Pokemon that take minimal damage from Foul Play such as Blissey. Finally, Defog ruins Sticky Web and other hyper offense teams that rely on entry hazards. The given EVs let Yveltal outspeed +1 positive nature base 90 Pokemon, such as Dragon Dance Zekrom. The rest of the EVs are dumped into HP and Special Defense to better handle Calyrex-S. Hasty should be chosen if you are running Oblivion Wing; otherwise, use Jolly.
This Yveltal fits best on teams that lack a revenge killer, like Choice Scarf Calyrex-S or Shadow Sneak Marshadow, or want to win the Sticky Web matchup. Ho-Oh is a near-mandatory partner, as this Yveltal lacks Heavy-Duty Boots and thus cannot consistently use Defog against Stealth Rock users. Necrozma-DM and Blissey can both switch into Eternatus and Xerneas while providing Stealth Rock and paralysis support. Blissey can also function as a cleric and Wish passer. A Knock Off switch-in such as Eternatus, Buzzwole, Tangrowth, or Zarude is needed, as this set loses all revenge killing capability without Choice Scarf.
[SET]
name: Choice Band
move 1: Knock Off
move 2: Dual Wingbeat / U-turn
move 3: U-turn / Roost
move 4: Sucker Punch / U-turn
item: Choice Band
ability: Dark Aura
nature: Adamant / Jolly
evs: 252 Atk / 72 SpD / 184 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Choice Band Yveltal makes for a surprise wallbreaking set thanks its powerful Knock Off. It 2HKOes all Eternatus except physically defensive sets on the switch, preventing it from absorbing Knock Off, which means Yveltal can very effectively get rid of items on the opposing team. Dual Wingbeat is a strong secondary STAB option that will demolish typical walls to Yveltal such as Zarude, Buzzwole, and Tangrowth. Notably, it makes this Yveltal able to check SubSeed Calyrex-S. U-turn becomes a quite strong momentum option should this set be successful in KOing Eternatus. An alternative is Roost, which lets this set check Calyrex-S much more reliably. Sucker Punch becomes an incredibly powerful revenge killing option when boosted by both Choice Band and Dark Aura. As a bonus, Choice Band gives Calyrex-S one of its worst possible items should it decide to use Trick. The given Speed investment is used to beat either neutral or positive nature base 90 Speed Pokemon with full Speed investment, depending on Yveltal’s nature. Should specially defensive Eternatus successfully heal after losing its item, Adamant Yveltal will still always 2HKO with Knock Off despite the power drop, while Jolly only gives a 53% chance to. However, Jolly is useful for Yveltal to outspeed positive nature base 90 Pokemon such as Zekrom and Choice Specs Kyogre.
This Yveltal needs quite a bit of team support to function properly. Ho-Oh is greatly appreciated for providing Defog and checking Calyrex-S and Xerneas. Blissey is another Calyrex-S check that can provide entry hazard, paralysis, cleric, and Wish support. Pokemon that love Eternatus being gone or heavily damaged, such as Marshadow, Buzzwole, and Zarude, are synergistic teammates. Marshadow and Zarude can act as secondary checks to Calyrex-S, and Zarude and Buzzwole can deal with defensive Ground-types like Groudon, Zygarde, and Landorus-T. Xatu is another possible teammate that can help prevent Stealth Rock from being laid down.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
====
Oblivion Wing can be used on either the Specially Defensive or the Fast Utility set to let Yveltal lure in and KO Buzzwole or Tangrowth. An offensive set consisting of Knock Off, Sucker Punch, and U-turn with Black Glasses is an option in between the Specially Defensive and Hone Claws sets, but generally you are better off just using one of those two sets. Block can be used to trap opposing Pokemon to Toxic stall, such as opposing Yveltal. However, this is unreliable due to many Yveltal running U-turn or Taunt. Items such as Iron Ball can turn the tables on Calyrex-S using Trick, but these are gimmick options that are inferior to Heavy-Duty Boots.
Checks and Counters
====
**Eternatus**: Eternatus is the most common Knock Off switch-in in the metagame, and it usually has little to fear from Yveltal. Offensive sets can KO many Eternatus, but physically defensive Eternatus has little issue walling even these sets.
**Xerneas**: Defensive Xerneas has little to fear from nearly all of Yveltal's options. Geomancy Xerneas cannot switch in recklessly, lest it lose its Power Herb, but it can otherwise easily force Yveltal out.
**Knock Off Absorbers**: Buzzwole, Zamazenta-C, and Tangrowth can take Knock Off very well and wall any Yveltal set lacking Flying-type coverage. Zarude can wall sets that lack U-turn or a Flying-type move. Toxapex can typically wall most Yveltal and stay healthy with Regenerator.
**Status and Residual Damage**: Paralysis, poison, burn, and Stealth Rock all significantly limit Yveltal's ability to check Calyrex-S and other threats.
**Opposing Yveltal**: The more defensive Yveltal sets can beat the offensive Yveltal sets with the right moves, such as Toxic and Foul Play.
**Defensive Tanks**: While none of them love switching into Knock Off, Pokemon such as Zygarde, Groudon, Necrozma-DM, and Zekrom can threaten Yveltal significantly with their strong physical attacks or status moves. Sets such as Bulk Up Groudon and Dragon Dance Necrozma-DM can take advantage of teams that rely on Foul Play Yveltal to check them.
[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Manaphy, 50695]]
- Quality checked by: [[SiTuM, 274590], [Minority, 222996]]
- Grammar checked by: [[Finland, 517429], [Astra, 240732]]
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