ZU Altaria

[5gen]

[OVERVIEW]

Altaria is one of the premier Defog users in the tier. It differentiates itself from other entry hazard removers such as Silvally-Water, Komala, Silvally-Fighting, and Swanna through its combination of resistances, ability in Natural Cure, outstanding overall bulk, and access to reliable recovery. Furthermore, Altaria is able to blanket check many common attackers such as Rapidash, Pawniard, and Leafeon. However, while Altaria is a reliable Defog user, it fails to comfortably switch into entry hazard setters such as Golem and Crustle and also loses to Bronzor. This typically makes it an inferior choice to the aforementioned entry hazard removers. Moreover, while its Dragon / Flying typing gives it many useful resistances, it leaves Altaria susceptible to Stealth Rock and Ice-type coverage, which are extremely common in the metagame from Pokemon such as Floatzel and Electivire. Lastly, Altaria is somewhat passive and does little to punish switch-ins, which allows setup Pokemon such as Bulk Up Komala and Curse Muk to take advantage of it.

[SET]
name: Defensive Defog
move 1: Defog
move 2: Roost
move 3: Toxic
move 4: Flamethrower
item: Leftovers
ability: Natural Cure
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 160 Def / 96 Spe

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

Roost allows Altaria to repeatedly check attackers and continuously switch into Stealth Rock. Moreover, Roost causes Altaria to lose its Flying typing, enabling it to play around Golem one-on-one. Toxic is used to wear down foes that Flamethrower does not hit for super effective damage, such as Electivire and Swanna. Conversely, Flamethrower enables Altaria to check Pokemon such as Pawniard, Pinsir, and Shiftry, which would otherwise set up on it.

Set Details
========

The given EVs allow Altaria to outpace Adamant Pawniard and maximize its physical bulk in order to check Pokemon such as Pinsir and Rapidash. Moreover, Altaria forgoes special bulk investment, since most special attackers tend to run Ice Beam or Hidden Power Ice specifically for it anyway.

Usage Tips
========

Altaria walls much of the metagame, and as a result it can Defog on many Pokemon such as Choice-locked Floatzel, Gourgeist-XL, and Combusken. However, Altaria often fails to switch into most Stealth Rock setters, so it should instead pivot into resisted attacks and use Defog on Pokemon it forces out. While Altaria can be used to blanket check threats due to its typing, it should be wary of Ice-type coverage from the likes of Rapidash, Kecleon, and Silvally-Fighting. Altaria should also be used to check more passive Pokemon such as Gourgeist-XL due to its ability to absorb status and spread Toxic. In the same vein, Altaria should look to Toxic stall foes and continually use Roost to keep itself healthy. For example, Altaria is able to Toxic stall defensive Golem through Roost. However, it is fairly passive and invites in wallbreakers such as Choice Band Komala and Floatzel. As a result, Altaria can be used to bait in Pokemon it cannot beat and provide an opportunity to double switch, although it has to be wary of Stealth Rock. Lastly, Altaria should make use of Flamethrower and its Speed tier to prevent Steel-types such as Pawniard, Mawile, and Abomasnow from switching in freely or setting up.

Team Options
========

Altaria can form fantastic defensive backbones with Pokemon such as Bronzor, Lickilicky, Gourgeist-XL, and Silvally-Water thanks to its plethora of useful resistances. Moreover, these partners help check Pokemon that Altaria struggles with such as Golem, Abomasnow, Swords Dance Pinsir, and Choice Specs Floatzel, respectively. It is important to note that defensive cores involving Altaria mainly fit on bulkier or more defensive builds due to their passive nature. Altaria highly appreciates Water-type Pokemon such as Mareanie, Floatzel, and Silvally-Water, which can pivot into Ice-type attacks or check Rock-type Pokemon. Pokemon that appreciate entry hazard removal such as Rapidash, Pinsir, and Raichu are also good partners. In turn, they help check Pokemon such as Abomasnow, Bronzor, and Simipour, which Altaria struggles with. In the same token, strong breakers such as Life Orb Electivire and Choice Band Komala appreciate Altaria's ability to bait in Pokemon so they can come in through aggressive double switches. Lastly, on more defensive teams, entry hazard removers such as Avalugg and Komala can be used alongside Altaria, since it is pressured by entry hazard setters such as Golem and Bronzor.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
Heal Bell or Haze may be used over Toxic if Altaria is paired with Toxic users such as Lickilicky and Golem. Heal Bell allows Altaria to provide cleric support for balance and defensive teams alike, whereas Haze enables Altaria to more easily check Pokemon such as Swords Dance Pinsir and Z-Mirror Move Swanna. Earthquake may be used over Flamethrower to catch Pokemon such as Probopass, Electivire, and Taunt Monferno. However, it leaves Altaria unable to punish Grass-types outside of Toxic and is weaker against Pawniard. Dragon Pulse may also be used over Flamethrower as a STAB option to play around Pokemon such as Taunt Floatzel, defensive Golem, and Swanna more easily. A spread of 252 HP / 160 SpD / 96 Spe with a Calm nature may be used to help Altaria to better check special attackers such as Combusken, Swanna, and Kadabra. This spread is particularly effective alongside physical walls such as Gourgeist-XL and defensive Golem. A defensive Flyinium Z Dragon Dance set with Fly, Defog or Substitute, and Roost and a spread of 252 HP / 120 Def / 136 Spe with a Jolly nature gives Altaria the ability to creep Choice Band Komala and potentially sweep through teams. However, Altaria is very easy to wall and requires a great deal of support to be effective.

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

**Ice-type Coverage**: Ice-types such as Abomasnow and Lapras threaten to OHKO Altaria, whereas Altaria only has Flamethrower to combat the former. Moreover, Ice-type coverage moves such as Hidden Power Ice on Life Orb Rapidash, Nasty Plot Shiftry, and Combusken, as well as Ice Beam Floatzel and Kecleon, and Ice Punch Electivire threaten to 2HKO or OHKO Altaria.

**Wallbreakers**: Pokemon such as Choice Band Granbull, Choice Band Komala, Beheeyem, and Choice Specs Floatzel threaten to 2HKO Altaria, while it fails to threaten them. Moreover, setup Pokemon such as Nasty Plot Mr. Mime, Swords Dance Pinsir, and Shell Smash Crustle threaten to OHKO Altaria after a boost.

**Taunt**: Altaria is easily shut down by Taunt due to its passive nature, so Pokemon such as Floatzel, Simisear, and Simipour can prevent Altaria from doing its job and force it out.

**Stealth Rock**: While Altaria is a bulky Defogger, its Flying typing restricts it from repeatedly switching into Stealth Rock to remove entry hazards. Moreover, Altaria is 2HKOed by offensive Golem and Crustle, and loses to Bronzor. This means that Altaria typically cannot remove Stealth Rock easily.

**Toxic Absorbers**: Pokemon that can switch into Toxic such as Komala, Bronzor, Muk, and Silvally-Poison typically can switch into Altaria freely, while Altaria is forced to switch out.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[5gen, 296755 ]]
- Quality checked by: [[Xayah, 167012], [BloodAce0107, 435539], [Aaronboyer, 239454]]
- Grammar checked by: [[The Dutch Plumberjack, 232216], [JockeMS, 53214]]

 

[5gen]

Ready for QC

 

[Xayah]

Overview

• Remove 'respectively' in the second line, as it suggests 'combination of resistances' corresponds to Silvally-Water, 'Natural Cure' corresponds with Komala, etc.
• Remove the sentence on Heal Bell and Haze, the main set doesn't use it.
• Altaria can definitely switch into Bronzor. It may not win 1v1, but it can definitely switch in, remove rocks, and switch out to heal the Toxic. As such, I'd remove it as an example.

Moves

• Your line on Defog fits better in Usage Tips, you can remove it here.
• Mention Roost removing its Flying-type, which can come into play when attempting to beat Pokemon like Golem and Crustle.

Set Details

• I understand there's not much to say, but I recommend expanding on the EVs a bit. You can definitely explain why we go for phys bulk instead of special (special attackers tend to have Ice Beam or HP Ice).

Usage Tips

• Your line about Defog from Moves should be here, probably as the first line.
• Ice Beam Silvally-Fighting and Ice Beam Swanna exist, I guess, but neither run it all that much. Reword the second part of the first line accordingly.
• Bellossom runs Safeguard and Boufflant runs Sub, meaning both of them can set up on Altaria (although Bellossom is never gonna kill it w/o Moonblast). Honestly most setup mons have some form of Toxic counterplay so I'd remove that part entirely.
• Remove Alolan Dugtrio from the last line, it's not super relevant and it doesn't fit with the Speed tier comment.

Other Options

• Add Dragon Pulse, been seeing it more recently and it's viable.

Checks and Counters

• Wallbreakers are strong by definitions, so you don't need that extra qualifier.
• Stealth Rock implies it has a setter, so you don't need 'and Setters' either. If you want to add it, should make a different section called Rock-types, but I wouldn't do so. Just renaming the current one is best. Also, add a line at the end like 'meaning it can't easily remove their Stealth Rock'.
• Servine's not the best example, I think Simipour is better, as Servine can at least get pressured by Flamethrower.

Well done, QC 1/3

 

[5gen]

Implemented, thank you for the check. QC 1/3

 

[BloodAce]

[OVERVIEW]

• Altaria is one of the premier Defog users in the tier due to its defensive utility.
• Altaria differentiates itself from hazard removers such as Silvally-Water, Komala, Silvally-Fighting, and Swanna through its combination of resistances, ability on Natural Cure, outstanding overall bulk, and access to reliable recovery
• Furthermore, Altaria is able to blanket check many common attackers such as Rapidash, Pawniard, and Shiftry in one slot.
• However, while Altaria is a reliable Defog user, it fails to comfortably switch into hazard removers setters such as Golem and Crustle
• Moreover, while its Flying/Dragon typing gives it many useful resistances, it leaves Altaria susceptible to Stealth Rock and Ice-type coverage, which are extremely common in the metagame
• Lastly, Altaria is somewhat passive and does little to punish switch-ins. Mention that this passivity allows Pokemon such as Komala to easily switch-in and take advantage of it.

Bronzor is another important pokemon to mention since its another hazard setter that can beat Altaria and limit its effectiveness as a Defogger.

[SET]
name: Defensive Defog
move 1: Defog
move 2: Roost
move 3: Toxic
move 4: Flamethrower
item: Leftovers
ability: Natural Cure
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 160 Def / 96 Spe

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

• Roost allows Altaria to repeatedly check attackers, switch into hazards, and continuously pivot into attacks. Moreover, Roost causes Altaria to lose its Flying typing, enabling it to play around Golem and Crustle one on one. repeatedly check attackers and continuously pivot into attacks kind of means the same thing.
• Toxic is used to wear down foes that Flamethrower does not hit for super effective damage, such as Electivire and Swanna.
• Conversely, Flamethrower enables Altaria to check Pokemon such as Pawniard, Pinsir, Abomasnow, and Shiftry, who would otherwise setup on it. Flamethrower doesnt really enable Altaria to check Abomasnow as much as it just prevents it from safely switching in and using it as set-up fodder.

Set Details
========

• The given EVs outpace Adamant Pawniard and maximize Altaria's physical bulk in order to check Pokemon such as Pinsir and Rapidash
• Moreover, Altaria forgoes special bulk investment since most special attackers tend to run Ice Beam or Hidden Power Ice specifically for it

Usage Tips
========

• Altaria walls much of the metagame, and as a result can Defog on many Pokemon such as Choice-locked Floatzel, Gourgeist-XL, and Combusken.
• Moreover, Altaria often fails to switch into most Stealth Rock setters, so it should instead pivot into resisted attacks and use Defog on Pokemon it can force out.
• While Altaria can be used to blanket check threats due to its typing, it should be wary of Ice-type coverage from the likes of Rapidash, Kecleon, and Silvally-Fighting.
• Altaria should also be used to check more passive Pokemon such as Gourgeist-XL due to its ability to absorb status and spread Toxic
• In the same vein, Altaria should look to Toxic stall foes and continually use Roost to keep itself healthy. For example, Altaria is able to Toxic stall defensive Golem through Roost.
• However, Altaria is fairly passive and invites in breakers such as Choice Band Komala and Floatzel. As a result, Altaria can be used to bait in Pokemon it cannot beat and provide an opportunity to double switches
• Lastly, Altaria should make use of Flamethrower and its Speed tier respective to prevent Steel-types such as Pawniard and Mawile from switching in freely or setting up. Abomasnow is another Pokemon Altaria runs Flamethrower for to prevent it from freely switching in.

Team Options
========

• Altaria can form fantastic defensive backbones with Pokemon such as Bronzor, Lickilicky, Gourgeist-XL, and Silvally-Water thanks to its plethora of useful resistances. Moreover, these partners help check Pokemon that Altaria struggles with such as Golem, Abomasnow, Swords Dance Pinsir, and Choice Specs Floatzel respectively
• Moreover, it is important to note that defensive cores involving Altaria mainly fit on bulkier or more defensive builds due to their passive nature.
• Altaria highly appreciates Water-type Pokemon such as Mareanie, Floatzel, and Silvally-Water who can pivot into Ice-type attacks and check Rock-type Pokemon respectively.
• Pokemon that appreciate hazard removal such as Rapidash, Pinsir, and Raichu are also good partners. In turn, they help check Pokemon such as Abomasnow, Bronzor, and Simipour which Altaria struggles with
• In the same token, strong breakers such as Life Orb Electivire and Choice Band Komala appreciate Altaria's ability to bait in Pokemon so they can come in through aggressive double switches.

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

• Heal Bell or Haze may be used over Toxic if Altaria is paired with Toxic users such as Lickilicky and Golem. Heal Bell allows Altaria to provide cleric support for balance and defensive teams alike, whereas Haze enables Altaria to more easily check Pokemon such as Swords Dance Pinsir and Z-Mirror Move Swanna.
• Earthquake may be used over Flamethrower to catch Pokemon such as Probopass, Electivire, and Taunt Monferno. However, it leaves Altaria unable to punish Grass-types outside of Toxic, and is weaker against Pawniard.
• Dragon Pulse may also be used over Flamethrower as a STAB option to play around Pokemon such as Taunt Floatzel, defensive Golem, and Swanna more easily.
• A spread of 252 HP / 160 SpD / 96 Spe and a Calm nature may be used to help Altaria to better check special attackers such as Combusken, Swanna, and Kadabra. This spread is particularly effective alongside physical walls such as Gourgeist-XL and defensive Golem
• A defensive Flyinium Z Dragon Dance set with Fly, Defog or Substitute, and Roost, and a spread of 252 HP / 120 Def / 136 Spe with a Jolly nature gives Altaria the ability to creep Choice Band Komala and potentially sweep through teams. However, Altaria is very easy to wall and requires a great deal of support to be effective.

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

**Ice-type Coverage**: Ice-types such as Abomasnow and Lapras threaten to OHKO Altaria, whereas Altaria only has Flamethrower to combat the former. Moreover, Ice-type coverage from Hidden Power Ice on Life Orb Rapidash, Nasty Plot Shiftry, and Combusken, as well as Ice Beam Floatzel and Kecleon, and Ice Punch Electivire threaten to 2HKO or OHKO Altaria.

**Wallbreakers**: Pokemon such as Choice Band Granbull, Choice Band Komala, Beheeyem, and Choice Specs Floatzel threaten to 2HKO Altaria, while it fails to threaten them. Moreover, setup Pokemon such as Nasty Plot Mr. Mime, Swords Dance Pinsir, and Shell Smash Crustle threaten to OHKO Altaria after a boost.

**Toxic Absorbers**: Pokemon that can switch into Toxic such as Komala, Bronzor, Muk, and Silvally-Poison typically can switch into Altaria freely while Altaria is forced to switch out.

**Stealth Rock**: While Altaria is a bulky Defogger, its Flying typing restricts it from repeatedly switching into Stealth Rock to remove hazards. Moreover, Altaria is 2HKOed by offensive Golem and Crustle respectively, and loses to Bronzor. This means that Altaria typically cannot remove Stealth Rock easily.

**Taunt**: Altaria is easily shut down by Taunt due to its passive nature, so Pokemon such as Floatzel, Simisear, and Simipour can prevent Altaria from doing its job and force it out.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[5gen, 296755 ]]
- Quality checked by: [[Xayah, 167012], [, ], [, ]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]

QC 2/3, nice job

 

[5gen]

implemented qc 2/3. will write up soon

 

[Aaronboyer]

[OVERVIEW]

Altaria is one of the premier Defog users in the tier. It differentiates itself from hazard removers such as Silvally-Water, Komala, Silvally-Fighting, and Swanna through its combination of resistances, ability in Natural Cure, outstanding overall bulk, and access to reliable recovery. Furthermore, Altaria is able to blanket check many common attackers such as Rapidash, Pawniard, and Shiftry in one slot. Does it really blanket check Shiftry? +2 Knock or HP Ice does loads. I would personally remove this example. However, while Altaria is a reliable Defog user, it fails to comfortably switch into hazard setters such as Golem and Crustle, and also loses to Bronzor. This typically makes it an inferior choice to the aforementioned hazard removers. Moreover, while its Flying/Dragon typing

Other way around. gives it many useful resistances, it leaves Altaria susceptible to Stealth Rock and Ice-type coverage, which are extremely common in the metagame. Examples? Lastly, Altaria is somewhat passive and does little to punish switch-ins, which allows setup Pokemon such as Bulk Up Komala and Curse Muk to take advantage of it.

[SET]
name: Defensive Defog
move 1: Defog
move 2: Roost
move 3: Toxic
move 4: Flamethrower
item: Leftovers
ability: Natural Cure
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 160 Def / 96 Spe

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

Roost allows Altaria to repeatedly check attackers and continuously switch into Stealth Rock. Moreover, Roost causes Altaria to lose its Flying typing, enabling it to play around Golem and Crustle one on one. Crustle always smashes if it has it and outspeeds Altaria before it can Roost and give up its Rock weakness. Change or Remove example. Toxic is used to wear down foes that Flamethrower does not hit for super effective damage, such as Electivire and Swanna. Conversely, Flamethrower enables Altaria to check Pokemon such as Pawniard, Pinsir, and Shiftry, who would otherwise setup on it.

Set Details
========

The given EVs outpace Adamant Pawniard and maximize Altaria's physical bulk in order to check Pokemon such as Pinsir and Rapidash. Moreover, Altaria forgoes special bulk investment since most special attackers tend to run Ice Beam or Hidden Power Ice specifically for it.

Usage Tips
========

Altaria walls much of the metagame, and as a result can Defog on many Pokemon such as Choice-locked Floatzel, Gourgeist-XL, and Combusken. Moreover, Altaria often fails to switch into most Stealth Rock setters, so it should instead pivot into resisted attacks and use Defog on Pokemon it forces out. However, while Altaria can be used to blanket check threats due to its typing, it should be wary of Ice-type coverage from the likes of Rapidash, Kecleon, and Silvally-Fighting. Altaria should also be used to check more passive Pokemon such as Gourgeist-XL due to its ability to absorb status and spread Toxic. In the same vein, Altaria should look to Toxic stall foes and continually use Roost to keep itself healthy. For example, Altaria is able to Toxic stall defensive Golem through Roost. However, it is fairly passive and invites in breakers such as Choice Band Komala and Floatzel. As a result, Altaria can be used to bait in Pokemon it cannot beat and provide an opportunity to double switch although it has to take into account Stealth Rock. Lastly, Altaria should make use of Flamethrower and its Speed tier respective to prevent Steel-types such as Pawniard, Mawile, and Abomasnow from switching in freely or setting up.

Team Options
========

Altaria can form fantastic defensive backbones with Pokemon such as Bronzor, Lickilicky, Gourgeist-XL, and Silvally-Water thanks to its plethora of useful resistances. Moreover, these partners help check Pokemon that Altaria struggles with such as Golem, Abomasnow, Swords Dance Pinsir, and Choice Specs Floatzel respectively. Moreover, it is important to note that defensive cores involving Altaria mainly fit on bulkier or more defensive builds due to their passive nature. Altaria highly appreciates Water-type Pokemon such as Mareanie, Floatzel, and Silvally-Water who can pivot into Ice-type attacks and check Rock-type Pokemon respectively. Pokemon that appreciate hazard removal such as Rapidash, Pinsir, and Raichu are also good partners. In turn, they help check Pokemon such as Abomasnow, Bronzor, and Simipour which Altaria struggles with. In the same token, strong breakers such as Life Orb Electivire and Choice Band Komala appreciate Altaria's ability to bait in Pokemon so they can come in through aggressive double switches.
Mention other hazard control Pokemon since Altaria usually isn't the sole means of hazard control on defensive/stall teams.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
Heal Bell or Haze may be used over Toxic if Altaria is paired with Toxic users such as Lickilicky and Golem. Heal Bell allows Altaria to provide cleric support for balance and defensive teams alike, whereas Haze enables Altaria to more easily check Pokemon such as Swords Dance Pinsir and Z-Mirror Move Swanna. Earthquake may be used over Flamethrower to catch Pokemon such as Probopass, Electivire, and Taunt Monferno. However, it leaves Altaria unable to punish Grass-types outside of Toxic, and is weaker against Pawniard. Dragon Pulse may also be used over Flamethrower as a STAB option to play around Pokemon such as Taunt Floatzel, defensive Golem, and Swanna more easily. A spread of 252 HP / 160 SpD / 96 Spe and a Calm nature may be used to help Altaria to better check special attackers such as Combusken, Swanna, and Kadabra. This spread is particularly effective alongside physical walls such as Gourgeist-XL and defensive Golem. A defensive Flyinium Z Dragon Dance set with Fly, Defog or Substitute, and Roost, and a spread of 252 HP / 120 Def / 136 Spe with a Jolly nature gives Altaria the ability to creep Choice Band Komala and potentially sweep through teams. However, Altaria is very easy to wall and requires a great deal of support to be effective.

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

**Ice-type Coverage**: Ice-types such as Abomasnow and Lapras threaten to OHKO Altaria, whereas Altaria only has Flamethrower to combat the former. Moreover, Ice-type coverage from Hidden Power Ice on Life Orb Rapidash, Nasty Plot Shiftry, and Combusken, as well as Ice Beam Floatzel and Kecleon, and Ice Punch Electivire threaten to 2HKO or OHKO Altaria.

**Wallbreakers**: Pokemon such as Choice Band Granbull, Choice Band Komala, Beheeyem, and Choice Specs Floatzel threaten to 2HKO Altaria, while it fails to threaten them. Moreover, setup Pokemon such as Nasty Plot Mr. Mime, Swords Dance Pinsir, and Shell Smash Crustle threaten to OHKO Altaria after a boost.

**Toxic Absorbers**: Pokemon that can switch into Toxic such as Komala, Bronzor, Muk, and Silvally-Poison typically can switch into Altaria freely while Altaria is forced to switch out.

**Stealth Rock**: While Altaria is a bulky Defogger, its Flying typing restricts it from repeatedly switching into Stealth Rock to remove hazards. Moreover, Altaria is 2HKOed by offensive Golem and Crustle respectively, and loses to Bronzor. This means that Altaria typically cannot remove Stealth Rock easily

**Taunt**: Altaria is easily shut down by Taunt due to its passive nature, so Pokemon such as Floatzel, Simisear, and Simipour can prevent Altaria from doing its job and force it out.

Taunt should go where Toxic Absorbers are and vice versa. Taunt shuts down Altaria and forces it to switch out. Natural Cure also forces Altaria to switch out but at least isn't immediately forced out and it cures its own Toxic status.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[5gen, 296755 ]]
- Quality checked by: [[Xayah, 167012], [BloodAce0107, 435539], [, ]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]

QC 3/3

 

[5gen]

Implemented and ready for GP

 

[Lumari]

remove add / fix (comments); (AC=add comma; RC=remove comma; SC=semicolon)
GP 1/2

check

[OVERVIEW]

Altaria is one of the premier Defog users in the tier. It differentiates itself from other entry hazard removers such as Silvally-Water, Komala, Silvally-Fighting, and Swanna through its combination of resistances, ability in Natural Cure, outstanding overall bulk, and access to reliable recovery. Furthermore, Altaria is able to blanket check many common attackers such as Rapidash, Pawniard, and Leafeon in one slot. However, while Altaria is a reliable Defog user, it fails to comfortably switch into entry hazard setters such as Golem and Crustle (RC) and also loses to Bronzor. This typically makes it an inferior choice to the aforementioned entry hazard removers. Moreover, while its Dragon / Flying typing gives it many useful resistances, it leaves Altaria susceptible to Stealth Rock and Ice-type coverage, which are extremely common in the metagame from Pokemon such as Floatzel and Electivire. Lastly, Altaria is somewhat passive and does little to punish switch-ins, which allows setup Pokemon such as Bulk Up Komala and Curse Muk to take advantage of it.

[SET]
name: Defensive Defog
move 1: Defog
move 2: Roost
move 3: Toxic
move 4: Flamethrower
item: Leftovers
ability: Natural Cure
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 160 Def / 96 Spe

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

Roost allows Altaria to repeatedly check attackers and continuously switch into Stealth Rock. Moreover, Roost causes Altaria to lose its Flying typing, enabling it to play around Golem one-on-one. (AH) Toxic is used to wear down foes that Flamethrower does not hit for super effective damage, such as Electivire and Swanna. Conversely, Flamethrower enables Altaria to check Pokemon such as Pawniard, Pinsir, and Shiftry, who which would otherwise setup set up on it.

Set Details
========

The given EVs allow Altaria to outpace Adamant Pawniard and maximize Altaria's its physical bulk in order to check Pokemon such as Pinsir and Rapidash. Moreover, Altaria forgoes special bulk investment, (AC) since most special attackers tend to run Ice Beam or Hidden Power Ice specifically for it anyway.

Usage Tips
========

Altaria walls much of the metagame, and as a result it can Defog on many Pokemon such as Choice-locked Floatzel, Gourgeist-XL, and Combusken. Moreover, However, Altaria often fails to switch into most Stealth Rock setters, so it should instead pivot into resisted attacks and use Defog on Pokemon it forces out. However, While Altaria can be used to blanket check threats due to its typing, it should be wary of Ice-type coverage from the likes of Rapidash, Kecleon, and Silvally-Fighting. Altaria should also be used to check more passive Pokemon such as Gourgeist-XL due to its ability to absorb status and spread Toxic. In the same vein, Altaria should look to Toxic stall foes and continually use Roost to keep itself healthy. For example, Altaria is able to Toxic stall defensive Golem through Roost. However, it is fairly passive and invites in wallbreakers such as Choice Band Komala and Floatzel. As a result, Altaria can be used to bait in Pokemon it cannot beat and provide an opportunity to double switch, although it has to be wary of Stealth Rock. Lastly, Altaria should make use of Flamethrower and its Speed tier respective to prevent Steel-types such as Pawniard, Mawile, and Abomasnow from switching in freely or setting up.

Team Options
========

Altaria can form fantastic defensive backbones with Pokemon such as Bronzor, Lickilicky, Gourgeist-XL, and Silvally-Water thanks to its plethora of useful resistances. Moreover, these partners help check Pokemon that Altaria struggles with such as Golem, Abomasnow, Swords Dance Pinsir, and Choice Specs Floatzel, (AC) respectively. Moreover, It is important to note that defensive cores involving Altaria mainly fit on bulkier or more defensive builds due to their passive nature. Altaria highly appreciates Water-type Pokemon such as Mareanie, Floatzel, and Silvally-Water, (AC) who which can pivot into Ice-type attacks and or check Rock-type Pokemon respectively. Pokemon that appreciate entry hazard removal such as Rapidash, Pinsir, and Raichu are also good partners. In turn, they help check Pokemon such as Abomasnow, Bronzor, and Simipour, (AC) which Altaria struggles with. In the same token, strong breakers such as Life Orb Electivire and Choice Band Komala appreciate Altaria's ability to bait in Pokemon so they can come in through aggressive double switches. Lastly, on more defensive teams, entry hazard removers such as Avalugg and Komala can be used alongside Altaria, (AC) since it is pressured by entry hazard setters such as Golem and Bronzor.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
Heal Bell or Haze may be used over Toxic if Altaria is paired with Toxic users such as Lickilicky and Golem. Heal Bell allows Altaria to provide cleric support for balance and defensive teams alike, whereas Haze enables Altaria to more easily check Pokemon such as Swords Dance Pinsir and Z-Mirror Move Swanna. Earthquake may be used over Flamethrower to catch Pokemon such as Probopass, Electivire, and Taunt Monferno. However, it leaves Altaria unable to punish Grass-types outside of Toxic (RC) and is weaker against Pawniard. Dragon Pulse may also be used over Flamethrower as a STAB option to play around Pokemon such as Taunt Floatzel, defensive Golem, and Swanna more easily. A spread of 252 HP / 160 SpD / 96 Spe and with a Calm nature may be used to help Altaria to better check special attackers such as Combusken, Swanna, and Kadabra. This spread is particularly effective alongside physical walls such as Gourgeist-XL and defensive Golem. A defensive Flyinium Z Dragon Dance set with Fly, Defog or Substitute, and Roost (RC) and a spread of 252 HP / 120 Def / 136 Spe with a Jolly nature gives Altaria the ability to creep Choice Band Komala and potentially sweep through teams. However, Altaria is very easy to wall and requires a great deal of support to be effective.

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

**Ice-type Coverage**: Ice-types such as Abomasnow and Lapras threaten to OHKO Altaria, whereas Altaria only has Flamethrower to combat the former. Moreover, Ice-type coverage moves from such as Hidden Power Ice on from Life Orb Rapidash, Nasty Plot Shiftry, and Combusken (RC) as well as Ice Beam Floatzel and Kecleon, and Ice Punch Electivire threaten to 2HKO or OHKO Altaria.

**Wallbreakers**: Pokemon such as Choice Band Granbull, Choice Band Komala, Beheeyem, and Choice Specs Floatzel threaten to 2HKO Altaria, while it fails to threaten them. Moreover, setup Pokemon such as Nasty Plot Mr. Mime, Swords Dance Pinsir, and Shell Smash Crustle threaten to OHKO Altaria after a boost.

**Taunt**: Altaria is easily shut down by Taunt due to its passive nature, so Pokemon such as Floatzel, Simisear, and Simipour can prevent Altaria from doing its job and force it out.

**Stealth Rock**: While Altaria is a bulky Defogger, its Flying typing restricts it from repeatedly switching into Stealth Rock to remove entry hazards. Moreover, Altaria is 2HKOed by offensive Golem and Crustle respectively, and loses to Bronzor. This means that Altaria typically cannot remove Stealth Rock easily. (AP)

**Toxic Absorbers**: Pokemon that can switch into Toxic such as Komala, Bronzor, Muk, and Silvally-Poison typically can switch into Altaria freely while Altaria is forced to switch out.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[5gen, 296755 ]]
- Quality checked by: [[Xayah, 167012], [BloodAce0107, 435539], [Aaronboyer, 239454]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]

 

[5gen]

Implemented and ready for second GP check

 

[JockeMS]

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[OVERVIEW]

Altaria is one of the premier Defog users in the tier. It differentiates itself from other entry hazard removers such as Silvally-Water, Komala, Silvally-Fighting, and Swanna through its combination of resistances, ability in Natural Cure, outstanding overall bulk, and access to reliable recovery. Furthermore, Altaria is able to blanket check many common attackers such as Rapidash, Pawniard, and Leafeon. However, while Altaria is a reliable Defog user, it fails to comfortably switch into entry hazard setters such as Golem and Crustle and also loses to Bronzor. This typically makes it an inferior choice to the aforementioned entry hazard removers. Moreover, while its Dragon / Flying typing gives it many useful resistances, it leaves Altaria susceptible to Stealth Rock and Ice-type coverage, which are extremely common in the metagame from Pokemon such as Floatzel and Electivire. Lastly, Altaria is somewhat passive and does little to punish switch-ins, which allows setup Pokemon such as Bulk Up Komala and Curse Muk to take advantage of it.

[SET]
name: Defensive Defog
move 1: Defog
move 2: Roost
move 3: Toxic
move 4: Flamethrower
item: Leftovers
ability: Natural Cure
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 160 Def / 96 Spe

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

Roost allows Altaria to repeatedly check attackers and continuously switch into Stealth Rock. Moreover, Roost causes Altaria to lose its Flying typing, enabling it to play around Golem one-on-one. Toxic is used to wear down foes that Flamethrower does not hit for super effective damage, such as Electivire and Swanna. Conversely, Flamethrower enables Altaria to check Pokemon such as Pawniard, Pinsir, and Shiftry, which would otherwise set up on it.

Set Details
========

The given EVs allow Altaria to outpace Adamant Pawniard and maximize its physical bulk in order to check Pokemon such as Pinsir and Rapidash. Moreover, Altaria forgoes special bulk investment, since most special attackers tend to run Ice Beam or Hidden Power Ice specifically for it anyway.

Usage Tips
========

Altaria walls much of the metagame, and as a result it can Defog on many Pokemon such as Choice-locked Floatzel, Gourgeist-XL, and Combusken. However, Altaria often fails to switch into most Stealth Rock setters, so it should instead pivot into resisted attacks and use Defog on Pokemon it forces out. While Altaria can be used to blanket check threats due to its typing, it should be wary of Ice-type coverage from the likes of Rapidash, Kecleon, and Silvally-Fighting. Altaria should also be used to check more passive Pokemon such as Gourgeist-XL due to its ability to absorb status and spread Toxic. In the same vein, Altaria should look to Toxic stall foes and continually use Roost to keep itself healthy. For example, Altaria is able to Toxic stall defensive Golem through Roost. However, it is fairly passive and invites in wallbreakers such as Choice Band Komala and Floatzel. As a result, Altaria can be used to bait in Pokemon it cannot beat and provide an opportunity to double switch, although it has to be wary of Stealth Rock. Lastly, Altaria should make use of Flamethrower and its Speed tier to prevent Steel-types such as Pawniard, Mawile, and Abomasnow from switching in freely or setting up.

Team Options
========

Altaria can form fantastic defensive backbones with Pokemon such as Bronzor, Lickilicky, Gourgeist-XL, and Silvally-Water thanks to its plethora of useful resistances. Moreover, these partners help check Pokemon that Altaria struggles with such as Golem, Abomasnow, Swords Dance Pinsir, and Choice Specs Floatzel, respectively. It is important to note that defensive cores involving Altaria mainly fit on bulkier or more defensive builds due to their passive nature. Altaria highly appreciates Water-type Pokemon such as Mareanie, Floatzel, and Silvally-Water, which can pivot into Ice-type attacks or check Rock-type Pokemon. Pokemon that appreciate entry hazard removal such as Rapidash, Pinsir, and Raichu are also good partners. In turn, they help check Pokemon such as Abomasnow, Bronzor, and Simipour, which Altaria struggles with. In the same token, strong breakers such as Life Orb Electivire and Choice Band Komala appreciate Altaria's ability to bait in Pokemon so they can come in through aggressive double switches. Lastly, on more defensive teams, entry hazard removers such as Avalugg and Komala can be used alongside Altaria, since it is pressured by entry hazard setters such as Golem and Bronzor.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
Heal Bell or Haze may be used over Toxic if Altaria is paired with Toxic users such as Lickilicky and Golem. Heal Bell allows Altaria to provide cleric support for balance and defensive teams alike, whereas Haze enables Altaria to more easily check Pokemon such as Swords Dance Pinsir and Z-Mirror Move Swanna. Earthquake may be used over Flamethrower to catch Pokemon such as Probopass, Electivire, and Taunt Monferno. However, it leaves Altaria unable to punish Grass-types outside of Toxic and is weaker against Pawniard. Dragon Pulse may also be used over Flamethrower as a STAB option to play around Pokemon such as Taunt Floatzel, defensive Golem, and Swanna more easily. A spread of 252 HP / 160 SpD / 96 Spe with a Calm nature may be used to help Altaria to better check special attackers such as Combusken, Swanna, and Kadabra. This spread is particularly effective alongside physical walls such as Gourgeist-XL and defensive Golem. A defensive Flyinium Z Dragon Dance set with Fly, Defog or Substitute, and Roost and a spread of 252 HP / 120 Def / 136 Spe with a Jolly nature gives Altaria the ability to creep Choice Band Komala and potentially sweep through teams. However, Altaria is very easy to wall and requires a great deal of support to be effective.

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

**Ice-type Coverage**: Ice-types such as Abomasnow and Lapras threaten to OHKO Altaria, whereas Altaria only has Flamethrower to combat the former. Moreover, Ice-type coverage moves such as Hidden Power Ice on Life Orb Rapidash, Nasty Plot Shiftry, and Combusken,[add] as well as Ice Beam Floatzel and Kecleon, and Ice Punch Electivire threaten to 2HKO or OHKO Altaria.

**Wallbreakers**: Pokemon such as Choice Band Granbull, Choice Band Komala, Beheeyem, and Choice Specs Floatzel threaten to 2HKO Altaria, while it fails to threaten them. Moreover, setup Pokemon such as Nasty Plot Mr. Mime, Swords Dance Pinsir, and Shell Smash Crustle threaten to OHKO Altaria after a boost.

**Taunt**: Altaria is easily shut down by Taunt due to its passive nature, so Pokemon such as Floatzel, Simisear, and Simipour can prevent Altaria from doing its job and force it out.

**Stealth Rock**: While Altaria is a bulky Defogger, its Flying typing restricts it from repeatedly switching into Stealth Rock to remove entry hazards. Moreover, Altaria is 2HKOed by offensive Golem and Crustle, and loses to Bronzor. This means that Altaria typically cannot remove Stealth Rock easily.

**Toxic Absorbers**: Pokemon that can switch into Toxic such as Komala, Bronzor, Muk, and Silvally-Poison typically can switch into Altaria freely,[add] while Altaria is forced to switch out.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[5gen, 296755 ]]
- Quality checked by: [[Xayah, 167012], [BloodAce0107, 435539], [Aaronboyer, 239454]]
- Grammar checked by: [[The Dutch Plumberjack, 232216], [, ]]

GP 2/2

 

[5gen]

thanks for the help, done.

 

[E4 Flint]

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