Ubers Arceus-Dark

Loloartsi

Banned deucer.

[OVERVIEW]

* Great all-around stats combined with a pure Dark typing make Arceus-Dark a very capable Pokemon in balanced and defensive teams.
* While Arceus-Dark is somewhat outclassed by other support Arceus formes, it has an unique niche over them in the fact that it threatens trappers like Gothitelle and Mega Gengar, making Arceus-Dark a good user of Defog.
* Resistances to Ghost and Dark with an additional Psychic immunity let Arceus-Dark check a plethora of common threats, such as Yveltal, Ultra Necrozma, Mega Gengar, and Psychic Terrain-based teams.
* Dark has good neutral coverage, hitting notable threats in the tier such as Necrozma-DM and Giratina-O, giving Arceus-Dark good offensive presence and making it one of the better Calm Mind Arceus formes.
* Arceus-Dark suffers from the prevalence of Fairy-types, since it's unable to do anything to them aside from using Toxic and is beaten down easily.
* Fighting-types such as Mega Lucario, while not as common as Fairy-types, are a struggle for Arceus-Dark to overcome.

[SET]
name: Support
move 1: Judgment
move 2: Recover
move 3: Toxic / Will-O-Wisp
move 4: Defog
item: Dread Plate
ability: Multitype
nature: Timid
evs: 252 HP / 160 Def / 96 Spe

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

* Judgment is Arceus-Dark's most consistent attack, hitting all types and letting it check Ultra Necrozma, Lugia, and Giratina-O.
* Recover keeps Arceus-Dark alive throughout the game and allows it to check the Pokemon it is supposed to.
* Toxic cripples common switch-ins to Arceus-Dark, such as Ho-Oh, Primal Groudon, and Arceus-Fairy, and enables it to defeat Yveltal one-on-one.
* Defog provides entry hazard removal, and Arceus-Dark's sheer bulk and Dark-type Judgment make it an acceptable user of the move.
* Will-O-Wisp can be used over Toxic to cripple Necrozma-DM, Marshadow, and Mega Lucario, but lacking Toxic makes Arceus-Dark unable to punish other switch-ins properly, such as Primal Groudon and Fairy-types.
* Ice Beam can be used to allow Arceus-Dark to consistently check Rayquaza, Mega Salamence, and Zygarde.

Set Details
========

* Dread Plate is required for a Dark-type Judgment and to use Arceus-Dark.
* A Timid nature with 96 Speed EVs enables Arceus-Dark to outspeed everything up to maximum base 100 Speed Pokemon, including notable threats such as Timid Yveltal and Palkia.
* The HP EVs, in tandem with the Defense EVs, maximize Arceus-Dark's physical bulk, notably letting it avoid the OHKO from +1 Adamant Mega Salamence Double-Edge after Stealth Rock and the 2HKO from Life Orb Yveltal's Oblivion Wing.
* An EV spread of 252 HP / 64 Def / 192 Spe with a Timid nature should be used if running Fire Blast or Will-O-Wisp, as it lets Arceus-Dark outspeed Jolly Mega Lucario.
* A bulkier EV spread of 252 HP / 240 Def / 16 Spe with a Bold nature can be used to outspeed neutral-natured base 90 Speed Pokemon and significantly increase Arceus-Dark's physical bulk, allowing it to take a +2 Precipice Blades from Primal Groudon and avoid the 2HKO from a Life Orb Ho-Oh Brave Bird.

Usage Tips
========

* Arceus-Dark should be used as the primary switch-in to Yveltal, Ghost-types such as Giratina-O and Lunala, and finally, Necrozma-DM.
* If using Will-O-Wisp, it is best used as early as possible to cripple its main targets, namely physical attackers and Steel-types such as Marshadow and Necrozma-DM.
* As Arceus-Dark cannot check offensive Primal Groudon sets, it shouldn't be left as the primary Primal Groudon check.
* Use Toxic to pressure possible switch-ins like Fairy- and Fighting-types to prevent them from using Arceus-Dark as setup fodder.
* Sometimes, it is worth to trade Toxic with Pokemon like Primal Groudon and Yveltal, if the opposing team doesn't pack a cleric, but in general, it is best to avoid being hit by Toxic, as this will severely hinder Arceus-Dark's walling capabilities.

Team Options
========

* Arceus-Dark works best on defensive teams that either have strong Primal Groudon checks and need a Pokemon that resists Dark or a Ultra Necrozma switch-in or are severely weak to Shadow Tag users.
* Primal Groudon provides a switch-in to Fairy-types and Primal Kyogre and Stealth Rock support, and if Arceus-Dark is using Stealth Rock, Primal Groudon is free to run a offensive set.
* Necrozma-DM is another great partner, as it heavily pressures Fairy-types, checks most Toxic users in the tier, and can provide Stealth Rock support or, if running an offensive set, pressure most offensive teams in general.
* Ho-Oh immensely benefits from Defog support and handles Fairy- and Fighting-types and Primal Groudon to an extent for Arceus-Dark.
* Marshadow likes Arceus-Dark taking on Yveltal, and in return, Marshadow takes on threats such as Mega Lucario and Tyranitar while also giving an additional Necrozma-DM check.
* Mega Gengar traps and eliminates Fairy-types and provides a Fighting-type immunity.
* Checks to offensive Primal Groudon sets such as Giratina-O, Lugia, and Zygarde to an extent are recommended.
* Bulky Pokemon that appreciate Arceus-Dark's ability to threaten Gothitelle and Mega Gengar and have a good defensive synergy with Arceus-Dark, such as Toxapex, Chansey, and Lugia, make for good partners.
* Other bulky Steel-types such as Ferrothorn, Bronzong, Magearna, and Mega Scizor are helpful for Arceus-Dark to deal with Fairy-types.

[SET]
name: Calm Mind
move 1: Judgment
move 2: Calm Mind
move 3: Recover
move 4: Refresh
item: Dread Plate
ability: Multitype
nature: Timid
evs: 252 HP / 4 SpA / 252 Spe

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

* Judgment is Arceus-Dark's strongest STAB option with unmatched power and accuracy.
* Calm Mind boosts Arceus-Dark's offensive and defensive capabilities against Pokemon that are unable to do much damage to it, such as Yveltal and any support Arceus forme that isn't Fairy.
* Recover helps Arceus-Dark maintain its HP and accumulate Calm Mind boosts against weaker threats.
* Refresh removes status conditions and allows Arceus-Dark to set up on most walls in the tier, such as Necrozma-DM, Lugia, and Giratina.

Set Details
========

* Dread Plate is required to use Arceus-Dark and boosts the power of Judgment.
* Maximum Speed EVs in tandem with a Timid nature enable Arceus-Dark to Speed tie with Swords Dance Arceus-Ground and Arceus-Ghost and outspeed most support Arceus formes.
* Maximum HP EVs maximize Arceus-Dark's bulk.
* The remainder of the EVs are put in Special Attack to give Arceus-Dark a bit more power.

Usage Tips
========

* As this set is completely walled by common Fairy-types such as Xerneas and Magearna, it is appropriate to weaken them before attempting a Calm Mind sweep.
* Arceus-Dark can set up Calm Mind on Yveltal and most walls that don't carry super effective coverage for it, such as support Arceus formes, Zygarde, and Necrozma-DM, so pivot it on these Pokemon for setup opportunities.
* It's best to not reveal Calm Mind on Arceus-Dark, as if its checks are removed or weakened this set can be a devastating late-game sweeper.
* Because this Arceus-Dark has Refresh and enough longevity and bulk, it can be used as a status absorber and an emergency check for sweepers such as mixed Rock Polish Primal Groudon and Double Dance Necrozma-DM.

Team Options
========

* Necrozma-DM checks Fairy-types and can provide Stealth Rock support for Arceus-Dark. Other Steel-types such as Magearna, Ferrothorn and Mega Scizor are useful to keep Fairy-types at bay.
* Primal Groudon is another Pokemon that can function well with Arceus-Dark, as it can also set up Stealth Rock and threaten Fairy-types while being a great pick for most teams.
* Giratina-O provides Defog support and a Fighting-type immunity and appreciates Arceus-Dark's ability to check Yveltal.
* Zygarde can take on Ho-Oh and Marshadow for Arceus-Dark.
* Other Pokemon that can take on Ho-Oh such as Mega Salamence and Lugia make for good partners, with specifically Mega Salamence appreciating Arceus-Dark's ability to threaten some of its checks.

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

* A Perish Trap set centered around Whirlpool + Perish Song allows Arceus-Dark to function as a good stallbreaker capable of trapping most defensive Pokemon; however, it is quite ineffective against more offensive teams.
* Stealth Rock can be used alternatively for entry hazard support if the team already has entry hazard removal.
* Fire Blast with an EV spread of 252 HP / 64 Def / 192 Spe and a Timid nature to outspeed Jolly Mega Lucario can be used to net surprise OHKOs on certain Steel-types such as Mega Lucario, Mega Scizor, and Ferrothorn while also heavily damaging other Steel-types such as Magearna and Celesteela on the switch.

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

**Fairy-types**: Most Fairy-types, such as Xerneas, Arceus-Fairy, and Magearna, wall Arceus-Dark and KO it with their STAB moves. Xerneas and Arceus-Fairy have to be wary of Toxic, though, while Magearna completely shuts down Arceus-Dark and is only 3HKOed by Fire Blast.

**Fighting-types**: Mega Lucario, Marshadow, Blaziken, and Pheromosa can easily take down Arceus-Dark with their STAB Fighting-type attacks. However, due to their frailty, they should avoid switching in on Judgment multiple times and watch out for variants carrying Will-O-Wisp.

**Certain Steel-types**: Bulky Steel-types that aren't weak to Judgment, such as Ferrothorn, Celesteela, and Mega Scizor, are immune to Toxic and can punish Arceus-Dark. However, they have to watch out for certain sets carrying Fire Blast.

**Blissey and Chansey**: Blissey and Chansey can shrug off any attack from Arceus-Dark with ease, remove status with Heal Bell or Natural Cure, and cripple Arceus-Dark with Toxic.

**Primal Kyogre**: Offensive Primal Kyogre sets dislike being hit by Toxic but threaten to OHKO Arceus-Dark with +1 Origin Pulse, while defensive variants can wear down Arceus-Dark with the combination of Scald and Toxic and remove status with Rest.

**Ho-Oh**: Ho-Oh, with its massive special bulk, easily takes a Judgment from Arceus-Dark and can retaliate with a powerful Sacred Fire or Brave Bird or simply poison it with Toxic. However, Ho-Oh heavily dislikes being hit by Toxic and is threatened to be 2HKOed by Judgment if it switches into Stealth Rock.
 
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Not sure if it's worth running 192+ speed for lucario if the main given spread can't punish luc anyway, maybe better to mention it in other options if running fire blast. The speed tie with most support arceus forms probably falls under the no speed creeping other analysis thing. Imo a spread that lets it outspeed Yveltal, the fastest threat that it's supposed to check that it can outspeed (96+ speed 160 def eg) should be the main
 

Loloartsi

Banned deucer.
used to have that spread originally so yeah good point, though its important to speedtie with opposing support arceus and since waterceus (without judgment or fire blast that are rare anyway) cant beat lucario either yet it still runs 192+ i think this spread is the optimal one
 
Last edited:
Make a point in the overview on how it is outclassed by its other formes, and whats darkceus niche over them (hint: checks psyspam and necrozma, doesnt lose to trappers).

Unslash SR and put it in OO, slash WoW with Toxic, makes it a good check to Necrozma DM. mention Ice Beam in set moves, make Fire Blast OO.

* A spread of 252 HP / 56 Def / 192 Spe with a Timid nature should be used if running Fire Blast or Will-O-Wisp, as it lets Arceus-Dark outspeed Jolly Mega Lucario.
mention that with Fire Blast point in OO, i wouldn't waste too much bulk for mluke even with WoW, since balance has enough checks to it.

* A bulkier spread of 252 HP / 240 Def / 16 Spe with a Bold nature can be used to outspeed neutral-natured base 90 Speed Pokemon and significantly increase Arceus-Dark's physical bulk, allowing it to take a Close Combat from Mega Lucario and Marshadow and a +2 Precipice Blades from Primal Groudon.
remove the marshadow and mluke part, mention something else like necrozma dm or ho-oh

* If using Stealth Rock, Arceus-Dark is a solid lead for most matchups, especially to the likes of Yveltal and Necrozma-DM.
remove. Add a point about Will-o-Wisp, what are its targets and when u use it.

* Try to avoid being hit by Toxic, since Arceus-Dark will be hindered down significantly, making walling much more difficult.
Add in this point that its still worth trading Toxic with mons such as Primal Groudon or Defensive Yveltal if the opposing team doesnt pack a cleric.

Add a point where you talk about how to pressure Fighting- and Fairy-types that would switch and use Darkceus as a setup fodder, doubles or status on the switchins for example.

* Primal Groudon provides a switch-in to Fairy-types and Primal Kyogre and Stealth Rock support, or if Arceus-Dark is using Stealth Rock, Primal Groudon is freed to run a offensive set.
reword this since SR isnt an option anymore. Add a necrozma dm point below this one where you mention that defensive checks most Toxic users, pressures fairy types and set SR, and offensive pressures well opposing offensive builds.

mention more stall staples such as Blissey, Toxapex, Mega Sableye, Lugia ect.

**Fighting-types**: Mega Lucario, Marshadow, Blaziken, and Pheromosa can easily take down Arceus-Dark with their STAB Fighting-type attacks. However, due to their frailty they should avoid switching in on Judgment multiple, and have to watch out for variants carrying Will-O-Wisp or Thunder Wave.
remove twave

**Primal Kyogre**: Defensive sets of Primal Kyogre can wear down Arceus-Dark with the combination of Scald and Toxic, and remove status with Rest. Offensive variants with Calm Mind dislike being hit by Toxic, but threaten to OHKO Arceus-Dark with an +1 Origin Pulse.
mention the offensive set before the defensive.

QC 1/3 after u implement this. good job lolo
 

Minority

Numquam Vincar
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The Calm Mind set needs to be added after support. With the addition of several new Defog users it's become less taxing to integrate on team structures. Not only does CM improve breaking capabilities when compared to the support set, it gains some defensive attributes - several SpA attackers + status sponge. In short I think the set is notable enough to be written up.
 
* Giratina-O provides Defog support and a Fighting-type immunity, and checks a huge threat to Arceus-Dark in Primal Groudon.
Primal Groudon isn't that big of a threat to Arceus-Dark... reword this a bit.

The rest of it is fine by me, Arceus-Dark isn't very complicated.

QC 2/3
 

Loloartsi

Banned deucer.
implemented and done a proper proofread, so this is now ready for GP! also apologies for being lazy as shit and not implementing team options x
 

Fireflame

Silksong when
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Remove Add Comments (AC)= add comma (RC)= remove comma (AH)= add hyphen (RH)= remove hyphen
[OVERVIEW]

* Great all-around stats combined with a pure Dark-(RH)typing make Arceus-Dark a very capable Pokemon in on balanced and defensive teams.
* While Arceus-Dark is otherwise somewhat outclassed by other support Arceus formes, it has an unique niche over them;(SC) in the fact that it threatens trappers like Gothitelle and Mega Gengar, making Arceus-Dark a good user of Defog.
* Resistances to Ghost and Dark with the an additional Psychic immunity lets let Arceus-Dark check a plethora of common threats, such as Yveltal, Ultra Necrozma, Mega Gengar, and Psychic Terrain-based teams.
* Dark has good neutral coverage, hitting notable threats in the tier such as Necrozma-DM and Giratina-O, gives giving Arceus-Dark good offensive presence,(AC) and makes making it one of the better Calm Mind Arceus formes.
* Arceus-Dark suffers from the Fairy-type prevalence of Fairy-types, since it's unable to do anything to them aside from using Toxic to them and is beaten down easily.
* Fighting-types such as Mega Lucario, while not as common as Fairy-types, are a struggle for Arceus-Dark to overcome.

[SET]
name: Support
move 1: Judgment
move 2: Recover
move 3: Toxic / Will-O-Wisp
move 4: Defog
item: Dread Plate
ability: Multitype
nature: Timid
evs: 252 HP / 160 Def / 96 Spe

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

* Judgment is Arceus-Dark's most consistent attack, hitting all types and letting it check Ultra Necrozma, Lugia, and Giratina-O.
* Recover keeps Arceus-Dark alive throughout the game and allows it to check the Pokemon it is supposed to.
* Toxic cripples common switch-ins to Arceus-Dark, such as Ho-Oh, Primal Groudon, and Arceus-Fairy, and enables it to defeat Yveltal one-on-one.
* Defog provides entry hazard removal, and Arceus-Dark's sheer bulk and Dark-type Judgment make it an acceptable user of the move.
* Will-O-Wisp can be used over Toxic to cripple Necrozma-DM, Marshadow, and Mega Lucario, but lacking Toxic makes Arceus-Dark unable to punish other switch-ins properly, such as Primal Groudon,(RC) and Fairy-types.
* Ice Beam can be used to allow Arceus-Dark to consistently check Rayquaza, Mega Salamence,(AC) and Zygarde.

Set Details
========

* Dread Plate is required for a Dark-type Judgment and to use Arceus-Dark.
* A Timid nature with 96 Speed EVs enables Arceus-Dark to outspeed everything up to maximum base 100 Speed Pokemon, including notable threats such as Timid Yveltal,(RC) and Palkia.
* The HP EVs, in tandem with the Defense EVs, maximize Arceus-Dark's physical bulk, notably letting it avoid the OHKO from +1 Adamant Mega Salamence Double-Edge after Stealth Rock and the 2HKO from a Life Orb Yveltal's Oblivion Wing.
* An EV spread of 252 HP / 56 Def / 192 Spe with a Timid nature should be used if running Fire Blast or Will-O-Wisp, as it lets Arceus-Dark outspeed Jolly Mega Lucario.
* A bulkier EV spread of 252 HP / 240 Def / 16 Spe with a Bold nature can be used to outspeed neutral-natured base 90 Speed Pokemon and significantly increase Arceus-Dark's physical bulk, allowing it to take a +2 Precipice Blades from Primal Groudon and avoid the 2HKO from a Life Orb Ho-Oh's Brave Bird.

Usage Tips
========

* Arceus-Dark works best on defensive teams that have strong Primal Groudon checks and need a resist to Dark or a Ultra Necrozma switch-in, or are severely weak to Shadow Tag users. (This would be first sentence in team options)
* Arceus-Dark should be used as the primary switch-in to Yveltal, Ghost-types such as Giratina-O and Lunala, and finally, Necrozma-DM.
* If using Will-O-Wisp, it is best used as early as possible to cripple its main targets, being physical attackers and Steel-types such as Marshadow and Necrozma-DM.
* As Arceus-Dark cannot check offensive Primal Groudon sets, it shouldn't be left as the primary Primal Groudon check.
* Use Toxic to pressure possible switch-ins like Fairy- and Fighting-types to prevent them from using Arceus-Dark as setup fodder. (better ordering)
* Sometimes,(AC) it is worth to trade Toxics Toxic with Pokemon like Primal Groudon and Yveltal,(RC) if the opposing team doesn't pack a cleric, but in general, it is best to avoid being hit by Toxic, as this will severely hinder Arceus-Dark's walling capabilities.
* Use Toxic to pressure possible switch-ins like Fairy- and Fighting-types to prevent them from using Arceus-Dark as setup fodder.

Team Options
========

* Arceus-Dark works best on defensive teams that have strong Primal Groudon checks and need a Pokemon that resists Dark or a Ultra Necrozma switch-in or are severely weak to Shadow Tag users.
* Primal Groudon provides a switch-in to Fairy-types and Primal Kyogre and Stealth Rock support, or and if Arceus-Dark is using Stealth Rock, Primal Groudon is freed free to run a offensive set.
* Necrozma-DM is another great partner, as it heavily pressures Fairy-types, checks most Toxic users in the tier,(AC) and can provide Stealth Rock support or, if running an offensive set, pressure most offensive teams in general.
* Ho-Oh immensely benefits from Defog support,(RC) and handles Fairy- and Fighting-types for Arceus-Dark and Primal Groudon to an extent for Arceus-Dark.
* Marshadow likes Arceus-Dark taking on Yveltal, and in return,(AC) Marshadow takes on threats such as Mega Lucario and Tyranitar,(RC) while also giving an additional Necrozma-(AH)DM check.
* Mega Gengar traps and eliminates Fairy-types and provides a Fighting-type immunity.
* Checks to offensive Primal Groudon sets such as Giratina-O, Lugia, and Zygarde to an extent are recommended.
* Bulky Pokemon that appreciate Arceus-Dark's ability to threaten Gothitelle and Mega Gengar and have a good defensive synergy with Arceus-Dark, such as Toxapex, Chansey, and Lugia, make for good partners.
* Other bulky Steel-types such as Ferrothorn, Bronzong, Magearna, and Mega Scizor are helpful for Arceus-Dark to deal with Fairy-types.

[SET]
name: Calm Mind
move 1: Judgment
move 2: Calm Mind
move 3: Recover
move 4: Refresh
item: Dread Plate
ability: Multitype
nature: Timid
evs: 248 HP / 8 SpA / 252 Spe

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

* Judgment is Arceus-Dark's strongest STAB option,(RC) with unmatched power and accuracy.
* Calm Mind boosts Arceus-Dark's offensive and defensive capabilities against Pokemon that are unable to do much damage to it, such as Yveltal and any support Arceus forme that isn't Fairy.
* Recover helps Arceus-Dark to maintain its HP and accumulate Calm Mind boosts against weaker threats.
* Refresh removes status conditions and allows Arceus-Dark to setup set up on most walls in the tier, such as Necrozma-DM, Lugia, and Giratina.

Set Details
========

* Dread Plate is required to use Arceus-Dark and boosts the power of Judgment.
* Maximum Speed EVs in tandem with a Timid Nature enable Arceus-Dark to speedtie Speed tie with Swords Dance Arceus-Ground and Arceus-Ghost,(RC) and outspeed most support Arceus formes.
* 248 HP EVs maximize Arceus-Dark's bulk and grant it an extra switch into Stealth Rock.
* The remainder of the EVs are put in Special Attack to give Arceus-Dark a tad bit more power.

Usage Tips
========

* As this set is completely walled by common Fairy-types such as Xerneas and Magearna, it is appropriate to weaken them before attempting a Calm Mind sweep.
* Arceus-Dark can setup set up Calm Mind on Yveltal and most walls that don't carry super-(RH)effective coverage for it, such as support Arceus formes, Zygarde,(AC) and Necrozma-DM, so pivot it on these Pokemon for setup opportunities.
* It's best to not reveal Calm Mind on Arceus-Dark, as if its checks are removed or weakened this set can be a devastating late-game sweeper.
* Because this Arceus-Dark has Refresh,(RC) and enough longevity and bulk, it can be used as a status absorber and an emergency check for sweepers such as mixed Rock Polish Primal Groudon and Double Dance Necrozma-DM.

Team Options
========

* Necrozma-DM checks Fairy-types and can provide Stealth Rock support for Arceus-Dark. Other Steel-types such as Magearna, Ferrothorn,(AC) and Mega Scizor are useful to keep Fairy-types at bay.
* Primal Groudon is another Pokemon that can function well with Arceus-Dark,(AC) as it can,(RC) too,(RC) setup also set up Stealth Rock and threaten Fairy-types while being a great pick for most teams.
* Giratina-O provides Defog support and a Fighting-type immunity,(RC) and appreciates Arceus-Dark's ability to check Yveltal.
* Zygarde can take on Ho-Oh and Marshadow for Arceus-Dark.
* Other Pokemon that can take on Ho-Oh such as Mega Salamence and Lugia make for good partners, with specifically Mega Salamence appreciating Arceus-Dark's ability to threaten some of its checks.

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

* A Perish Trap set consisting of Whirlpool + Perish Song allows Arceus-Dark to function as a good stallbreaker capable of trapping most defensive Pokemon,(RC);(SC) however, it is quite ineffective against more offensive teams.
* Stealth Rock can be used alternatively for entry hazard support if the team already has entry hazard removal.
* Fire Blast with an EV spread of 252 HP / 64 Def / 192 Spe with and a Timid nature to outspeed Jolly Mega Lucario can be used to net surprise OHKOs on certain Steel-types such as Mega Lucario, Mega Scizor,(AC) and Ferrothorn while also heavily damaging other Steel-types such as Magearna and Celesteela on the switch-inswitch.

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

**Fairy-types**: Most Fairy-types, such as Xerneas, Arceus-Fairy, and Magearna,(AC) wall Arceus-Dark and KO it with their Fairy-type STABs STAB moves. Xerneas and Arceus-Fairy have to be wary of Toxic, while Magearna completely shuts down Arceus-Dark completely down and is only 3HKOed by Fire Blast.

**Fighting-types**: Mega Lucario, Marshadow, Blaziken, and Pheromosa can easily take down Arceus-Dark with their STAB Fighting-type attacks. However, due to their frailty,(AC) they should avoid switching in on Judgment multiple times,(RC) and watch out for variants carrying Will-O-Wisp.

**Certain Steel-types**: Bulky Steel-types that aren't weak to Judgment, such as Ferrothorn, Celesteela, and Mega Scizor, are immune to Toxic and can punish Arceus-Dark. However, they have to watch out for certain sets carrying Fire Blast.

**Blissey and Chansey**: Blissey and Chansey can shrug off any attack from Arceus-Dark with ease, remove status with Heal Bell or Natural Cure, and cripple Arceus-Dark with Toxic.

**Primal Kyogre**: Offensive Primal Kyogre sets of Primal Kyogre dislike being hit by Toxic,(RC) but threaten to OHKO Arceus-Dark with an +1 Origin Pulse, while defensive variants can wear down Arceus-Dark with the combination of Scald and Toxic,(RC) and remove status with Rest.

**Ho-Oh**: Ho-Oh, with its massive special bulk, easily takes a Judgment from Arceus-Dark and can retaliate with a powerful Sacred Fire or Brave Bird,(RC) or simply poison it with Toxic it. However, Ho-Oh heavily dislikes being hit by Toxic,(RC) and is threatened to be 2HKOed by Judgment if it switches on into Stealth Rock.
GP 1/2
 

Lumari

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

* Great all-around stats combined with a pure Dark typing make Arceus-Dark a very capable Pokemon in balanced and defensive teams.
* While Arceus-Dark is otherwise somewhat outclassed by other support Arceus formes, it has an unique niche over them in the fact that it threatens trappers like Gothitelle and Mega Gengar, making Arceus-Dark a good user of Defog.
* Resistances to Ghost and Dark with an additional Psychic immunity let Arceus-Dark check a plethora of common threats, such as Yveltal, Ultra Necrozma, Mega Gengar, and Psychic Terrain-based teams.
* Dark has good neutral coverage, hitting notable threats in the tier such as Necrozma-DM and Giratina-O, giving Arceus-Dark good offensive presence (RC) and making it one of the better Calm Mind Arceus formes.
* Arceus-Dark suffers from the prevalence of Fairy-types, since it's unable to do anything to them aside from using Toxic and is beaten down easily.
* Fighting-types such as Mega Lucario, while not as common as Fairy-types, are a struggle for Arceus-Dark to overcome.

[SET]
name: Support
move 1: Judgment
move 2: Recover
move 3: Toxic / Will-O-Wisp
move 4: Defog
item: Dread Plate
ability: Multitype
nature: Timid
evs: 252 HP / 160 Def / 96 Spe

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

* Judgment is Arceus-Dark's most consistent attack, hitting all types and letting it check Ultra Necrozma, Lugia, and Giratina-O.
* Recover keeps Arceus-Dark alive throughout the game and allows it to check the Pokemon it is supposed to.
* Toxic cripples common switch-ins to Arceus-Dark, such as Ho-Oh, Primal Groudon, and Arceus-Fairy, and enables it to defeat Yveltal one-on-one.
* Defog provides entry hazard removal, and Arceus-Dark's sheer bulk and Dark-type Judgment make it an acceptable user of the move.
* Will-O-Wisp can be used over Toxic to cripple Necrozma-DM, Marshadow, and Mega Lucario, but lacking Toxic makes Arceus-Dark unable to punish other switch-ins properly, such as Primal Groudon and Fairy-types.
* Ice Beam can be used to allow Arceus-Dark to consistently check Rayquaza, Mega Salamence, and Zygarde.

Set Details
========

* Dread Plate is required for a Dark-type Judgment and to use Arceus-Dark.
* A Timid nature with 96 Speed EVs enables Arceus-Dark to outspeed everything up to maximum base 100 Speed Pokemon, including notable threats such as Timid Yveltal and Palkia.
* The HP EVs, in tandem with the Defense EVs, maximize Arceus-Dark's physical bulk, notably letting it avoid the OHKO from +1 Adamant Mega Salamence Double-Edge after Stealth Rock and the 2HKO from a Life Orb Yveltal's Oblivion Wing.
* An EV spread of 252 HP / 64 Def / 192 Spe with a Timid nature should be used if running Fire Blast or Will-O-Wisp, as it lets Arceus-Dark outspeed Jolly Mega Lucario.
* A bulkier EV spread of 252 HP / 240 Def / 16 Spe with a Bold nature can be used to outspeed neutral-natured base 90 Speed Pokemon and significantly increase Arceus-Dark's physical bulk, allowing it to take a +2 Precipice Blades from Primal Groudon and avoid the 2HKO from a Life Orb Ho-Oh Brave Bird.

Usage Tips
========

* Arceus-Dark should be used as the primary switch-in to Yveltal, Ghost-types such as Giratina-O and Lunala, and finally, Necrozma-DM.
* If using Will-O-Wisp, it is best used as early as possible to cripple its main targets, being namely physical attackers and Steel-types such as Marshadow and Necrozma-DM.
* As Arceus-Dark cannot check offensive Primal Groudon sets, it shouldn't be left as the primary Primal Groudon check.
* Use Toxic to pressure possible switch-ins like Fairy- and Fighting-types to prevent them from using Arceus-Dark as setup fodder.
* Sometimes, it is worth to trade Toxic with Pokemon like Primal Groudon and Yveltal, if the opposing team doesn't pack a cleric, but in general, it is best to avoid being hit by Toxic, as this will severely hinder Arceus-Dark's walling capabilities.

Team Options
========

* Arceus-Dark works best on defensive teams that either have strong Primal Groudon checks and need a resist to Pokemon that resists Dark or a Ultra Necrozma switch-in (RC) or are severely weak to Shadow Tag users.
* Primal Groudon provides a switch-in to Fairy-types and Primal Kyogre and Stealth Rock support, and if Arceus-Dark is using Stealth Rock, Primal Groudon is free to run a offensive set.
* Necrozma-DM is another great partner, as it heavily pressures Fairy-types, checks most Toxic users in the tier, and can provide Stealth Rock support or, if running an offensive set, pressure most offensive teams in general.
* Ho-Oh immensely benefits from Defog support and handles Fairy- and Fighting-types and Primal Groudon to an extent for Arceus-Dark.
* Marshadow likes Arceus-Dark taking on Yveltal, and in return, Marshadow takes on threats such as Mega Lucario and Tyranitar while also giving an additional Necrozma-DM check.
* Mega Gengar traps and eliminates Fairy-types and provides a Fighting-type immunity.
* Checks to offensive Primal Groudon sets such as Giratina-O, Lugia, and Zygarde to an extent are recommended.
* Bulky Pokemon that appreciate Arceus-Dark's ability to threaten Gothitelle and Mega Gengar and have a good defensive synergy with Arceus-Dark, such as Toxapex, Chansey, and Lugia, make for good partners.
* Other bulky Steel-types such as Ferrothorn, Bronzong, Magearna, and Mega Scizor are helpful for Arceus-Dark to deal with Fairy-types.

[SET]
name: Calm Mind
move 1: Judgment
move 2: Calm Mind
move 3: Recover
move 4: Refresh
item: Dread Plate
ability: Multitype
nature: Timid
evs: 248 HP / 8 SpA / 252 Spe

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

* Judgment is Arceus-Dark's strongest STAB option with unmatched power and accuracy.
* Calm Mind boosts Arceus-Dark's offensive and defensive capabilities against Pokemon that are unable to do much damage to it, such as Yveltal and any support Arceus forme that isn't Fairy.
* Recover helps Arceus-Dark maintain its HP and accumulate Calm Mind boosts against weaker threats.
* Refresh removes status conditions and allows Arceus-Dark to set up on most walls in the tier, such as Necrozma-DM, Lugia, and Giratina.

Set Details
========

* Dread Plate is required to use Arceus-Dark and boosts the power of Judgment.
* Maximum Speed EVs in tandem with a Timid nature enable Arceus-Dark to Speed tie with Swords Dance Arceus-Ground and Arceus-Ghost and outspeed most support Arceus formes.
* 248 HP EVs maximize Arceus-Dark's bulk and grant it an extra switch into Stealth Rock. (max HP isn't divisible by 8 so no, just do max)
* The remainder of the EVs are put in Special Attack to give Arceus-Dark a tad bit more power.

Usage Tips
========

* As this set is completely walled by common Fairy-types such as Xerneas and Magearna, it is appropriate to weaken them before attempting a Calm Mind sweep.
* Arceus-Dark can set up Calm Mind on Yveltal and most walls that don't carry super effective coverage for it, such as support Arceus formes, Zygarde, and Necrozma-DM, so pivot it on these Pokemon for setup opportunities.
* It's best to not reveal Calm Mind on Arceus-Dark, as if its checks are removed or weakened this set can be a devastating late-game sweeper.
* Because this Arceus-Dark has Refresh and enough longevity and bulk, it can be used as a status absorber and an emergency check for sweepers such as mixed Rock Polish Primal Groudon and Double Dance Necrozma-DM.

Team Options
========

* Necrozma-DM checks Fairy-types and can provide Stealth Rock support for Arceus-Dark. Other Steel-types such as Magearna, Ferrothorn and Mega Scizor are useful to keep Fairy-types at bay.
* Primal Groudon is another Pokemon that can function well with Arceus-Dark, (AC) as it can also set up Stealth Rock and threaten Fairy-types while being a great pick for most teams.
* Giratina-O provides Defog support and a Fighting-type immunity and appreciates Arceus-Dark's ability to check Yveltal.
* Zygarde can take on Ho-Oh and Marshadow for Arceus-Dark.
* Other Pokemon that can take on Ho-Oh such as Mega Salamence and Lugia make for good partners, with specifically Mega Salamence appreciating Arceus-Dark's ability to threaten some of its checks.

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

* A Perish Trap set consisting of centered around Whirlpool + Perish Song allows Arceus-Dark to function as a good stallbreaker capable of trapping most defensive Pokemon; however, it is quite ineffective against more offensive teams.
* Stealth Rock can be used alternatively for entry hazard support if the team already has entry hazard removal.
* Fire Blast with an EV spread of 252 HP / 64 Def / 192 Spe and a Timid nature to outspeed Jolly Mega Lucario can be used to net surprise OHKOs on certain Steel-types such as Mega Lucario, Mega Scizor, and Ferrothorn while also heavily damaging other Steel-types such as Magearna and Celesteela on the switch.

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

**Fairy-types**: Most Fairy-types, such as Xerneas, Arceus-Fairy, and Magearna, wall Arceus-Dark and KO it with their Fairy-type STAB moves. Xerneas and Arceus-Fairy have to be wary of Toxic, though, while Magearna completely shuts down Arceus-Dark and is only 3HKOed by Fire Blast.

**Fighting-types**: Mega Lucario, Marshadow, Blaziken, and Pheromosa can easily take down Arceus-Dark with their STAB Fighting-type attacks. However, due to their frailty, they should avoid switching in on Judgment multiple times and watch out for variants carrying Will-O-Wisp.

**Certain Steel-types**: Bulky Steel-types that aren't weak to Judgment, such as Ferrothorn, Celesteela, and Mega Scizor, are immune to Toxic and can punish Arceus-Dark. However, they have to watch out for certain sets carrying Fire Blast.

**Blissey and Chansey**: Blissey and Chansey can shrug off any attack from Arceus-Dark with ease, remove status with Heal Bell or Natural Cure, and cripple Arceus-Dark with Toxic.

**Primal Kyogre**: Offensive Primal Kyogre sets dislike being hit by Toxic but threaten to OHKO Arceus-Dark with +1 Origin Pulse, while defensive variants can wear down Arceus-Dark with the combination of Scald and Toxic and remove status with Rest.

**Ho-Oh**: Ho-Oh, with its massive special bulk, easily takes a Judgment from Arceus-Dark and can retaliate with a powerful Sacred Fire or Brave Bird or simply poison it with Toxic. However, Ho-Oh heavily dislikes being hit by Toxic and is threatened to be 2HKOed by Judgment if it switches into Stealth Rock.
 
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