BH Mega Sceptile qc: 0/3 GP: 0/1

QC:
GP:

overview
*Mega Sceptile has a unique niche as a speedy special attacking Pokemon that can outspeed Mega Mewtwo Y, backed up with a strong base 145 Special Attack.
*These strong offenses allow it to deal significant damage to many bulky Pokemon, including Primal Kyogre, Mega Tyranitar, and bulky Steel- and Dragon-types. The threat of serious damage tends to induce switches that can work in Mega Sceptile's favor.
*Grass/Dragon is a mixed bag defensively. It has useful 4x resistances to grass, Electric and Water, as well as a 2x resistance to Ground. That same typing leaves it 4x weak to Ice and 2x weak to Flying, Dragon, Bug and Fairy, which means that many common priority moves and U-turns from defensive pivots can severely damage or OHKO it.
*Mega Sceptile's bad defensive stats mean that it should be kept away from any unnecessary damage such as entry hazards and status, as this chip damage can bring it in range of KOs from moves that it might have survived otherwise.

Contrary
Sceptile-mega @ Focus Sash / Earth Plate / Life Orb
Ability: Contrary
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Leaf Storm
- Draco Meteor
- Overheat/Judgment
- Spore / Moongeist beam

Set Comments

Moves
*Leaf Storm and Draco meteor are powerful stab moves that help Mega Sceptile set up and sweep. Leaf Storm 2hKOs Primal Kyogre; Mega Gyarados; and most variants of Primal Groudon, while Draco meteor hits Giratina; Zygarde-C; and Imposter switch-ins very hard.
*Overheat nets solid coverage against Steel types, with a guaranteed 2HKO against non-Flash Fire Registeel and Aegislash unboosted. It also 2hKOs Assault Vest Solgaleo on the switch.
* Earth Plate Judgment hits Flash Fire Steel-types, with the exception of Celesteela, harder than Sceptile's other moves and allows you to imposterproof it with your own Flash Fire Steel-type.
*Spore cripples a predicted switch-in and cannot be bounced back thanks to Sceptile's Grass typing.
* Moongeist Beam KOs Sturdy Shedinja and hits some unaware users harder at +2.

Set Details
* A speed-boosting nature is required in order to take advantage of Mega Sceptile's great speed tier, allowing it to easily outspeed Mega Mewtwo forms and Mega Gengar.
* Contrary allows Sceptile to use its high-power moves to set up and sweep the foe at the same time.
*Focus Sash is generally the best item as it guarantees that an Imposter will take massive damage if the Sash is intact.
* Earth Plate allows Mega Sceptile to have coverage that an Imposter cannot copy. Life Orb is also viable to increase the power of all its moves, allowing it to break through walls more easily. For example, a Life Orb boosted Leaf Storm has a 30% chance to 2hKO Unaware Mega Audino from full. Without the Life Orb, it can only hope to deal about 75%.

Usage Tips
* Mega Sceptile is best saved for the late game once checks to it such as Unaware walls have been weakened or removed. Early game, use Mega Sceptile to force switches and wear down your opponent's walls.
* Due to its frailty, Mega Sceptile must be brought in via a slow pivot or on a predicted switch. Try to scout strong attacks such as Kyogre-p's or MMY's Ice Beam, Status moves such as Nuzzle or Toxic, Core Enforcer from Steel-type walls, or random Fairy-type coverage moves to gauge how much work needs to be done before Mega Sceptile can sweep safely.
* Once in, good prediction can go a really long way in breaking through the opponent's team. If you are unsure of what move to use, Leaf Storm is a safe STAB move since it has no immunities besides the rare Sap Sipper.
*If Imposter switches in, such as after a fainted teammate, Mega Sceptile can stay in if its Focus Sash is intact and it has gained a Special Attack boost from using a Contrary move. +2 Draco meteor does massive damage to an Imposter, who will have to risk taking at least one and perhaps two of them depending on the result of the speed tie. This should not be relied upon, of course, as it is not easy to maintain the Focus Sash.
*Spore can be useful if the opponent's Mega Sceptile answer is a Pokemon that is not Steel-type, as many of them do not use Safety Goggles.

Team Options
* Entry Hazard support from Deoxys-s, Zygarde-C, or a bulky Steel-type can help pave the way for Sceptile's sweep, while also preventing Shedinja from switching in to wall it. They also allow Sceptile to get 2hKOs on otherwise reliable walls, such as unaware Mega Audino.
*Slower, bulky attackers such as Kartana, Mega Garchomp, and mega Metagross appreciate the chip damage Mega Sceptile can accrue against walls. In turn they can weaken Unaware walls such as Mega Audino and Yveltal to facilitate Mega Sceptile's late-game sweep.
*A check to -ate users, such as a bulky Steel type or a physically defensive Soundproof user, can save Mega Sceptile from being revenge KOed, while bringing it in via a slow pivot. Z-parting Shot users are especially nice, since they can save Mega Sceptile from losing its item via Knock Off or Trick, and heal Mega Sceptile back up to full if it has sustained damage.
* Imposter Chansey is a very useful teammate to scout for lure moves that might KO Mega Sceptile.
* Opposing Imposter Chansey is also extremely dangerous if it copies mega Sceptile. Flash Fire Registeel can take two hits from any move and recover off the damage. Unaware walls such as Mega Audino or Xerneas can keep an Imposter in check, though all of them have to run Safety Goggles if Mega Sceptile runs Spore.
*Psychic Terrain support from Mega Mewtwo Y is useful to stop priority attackers, and works especially well if Sceptile opts to run Psycho Boost. Alternatively, Mega Mewtwo Y's Sheer Force set can effectively lure in many of Mega Sceptile's checks.
*Mega Gengar is also a solid wallbreaker and can lure in Mega Audino and other Fairy-types with a STAB Sludge Wave, making it a great help to Mega Sceptile.

Sheer Force
Sceptile-mega @ Life Orb
Ability: Sheer Force
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
- Seed Flare
- Tail Glow / Earth Power
- Blue Flare
- Ice Beam / Spore

Set Comments
moves
* Seed Flare is Sceptile's best STAB move, 2hKOing most offensive threats. It also at worst 2hKOs primal Kyogre, even with an Assault Vest.
* Tail Glow can be used to turn Mega Sceptile into a deadly late-game sweeper, increasing its special attack by 3 stages and allowing it to brute force its way past walls.
* Earth Power OHKOs Mega Gengar and hits non-Flash Fire Steel-types harder than Mega Sceptile's other moves.
* Blue Flare 2hKOs Steel-type switchins, whether or not they are using an Assault Vest.
* Ice Beam OHKOs Mega Rayquaza and Mega Garchomp and deals at least 80% to non-Assault Vest Zygarde-C.
* Spore can cripple a predicted switch-in and cannot be bounced back due to Sceptile's Grass typing.

Set Details
* A positive nature is required to outspeed base 130 and 140 Speed Pokemon including Mega Gengar and Mega Mewtwo forms. It also allows Mega Sceptile to outspeed neutral-natured base 90 speed Choice Scarf users such as Primal Groudon.
* Sheer Force along with a Life Orb gives Sceptile's moves a 69% power increase and removes Life Orb's recoil.

Usage tips
* Pivot Mega Sceptile against a weakened threat that it can outspeed and OHKO to force the opponent to switch or sacrifice his current Pokemon. Most offensive threats do not need to be damaged too much for mega Sceptile to faint them (Primal Groudon takes at least 60% from Earth Power, Mega Mewtwo Y at least 75% from Seed Flare, etc.) Predicting a switch can put the Mega Sceptile user in an excellent position, especially if a Steel-type switch is is hit super effectively.
* Remember that Seed Flare's 80% accuracy is as bad as Stone Edge's. A missed Seed Flare can result in the loss of Mega Sceptile.
* Avoid letting Mega Sceptile take unneeded damage. It cannot take any more than weak resisted moves such as a Volt Switch from a defensive Pokemon. Keep entry hazards off the field to maximize Mega Sceptile's chances of survivability.
* Do not allow Mega Sceptile to lose its Life Orb, as this will significantly weaken the power of all its moves and turn potential 2hKOs into 3hKOs.
* If running Tail Glow, do not reveal the move until the late game, when all Priority and Unaware users have been removed. Use Tail Glow on a predicted switch, then start rampaging through the opponent's weakened team with it.

Team Options
* Bulky Steel-types can take priority attacks for Mega Sceptile and pivot it in safely. Registeel, Solgaleo, and Aegislash can all provide a slow pivot as well as great team support. Assault Vest Primal Kyogre can serve the same purpose and maintains a strong offensive presence.
* Knock Off support from Yveltal, Assault Vest Solgaleo, or Mega Audino can remove Assault Vests, Safety Goggles, and leftovers from defensive Pokemon, weakening them for Mega Sceptile.
* Zygarde-C can Imposter-proof non-Ice Beam variants. If running Ice beam, Chansey or Primordial Sea Celesteela are other useable options. If running Tail Glow, these Pokemon must run Unaware so that one can boost safely against an Imposter. Sturdy Shedinja is also a competent Imposter counter without entry hazards on the field, but Mega Sceptile can never risk switching in if hazards are up, neutering much of its threat value. Ho-Oh can also Imposterproof this set, though it needs Unaware and a field clear of Stealth Rockif Mega Sceptile is running Tail Glow.
* Entry hazard support from Deoxys-s, Giratina, or Mega Audino can weaken the opposing team for a sweep and prevent opposing Sturdy Shedinja from walling mega Sceptile.
* Bulky setup sweepers such as Poison Heal Primal Kyogre and Poison Heal Regigigas appreciate Mega Sceptile's wallbreaking power. Poison Heal Pokemon can also safely spread status against the opposing team.
*Aerilate, Pixilate and Refrigerate users such as Mega Rayquaza, Mega Diancie, and Kyurem-b appreciate the removal of Steel types that would otherwise easily take their hits.

Strategy Comments

Other Options
*Choice Specs with Grassy Surge gives Mega Sceptile much more power behind its Grass-type STAB, but makes it much more difficult to sweep when locked into a single move. Alternatively, a teammate can provide Grassy Surge support, freeing Mega Sceptile's ability slot for something else to boost its damage to ludicrous levels. The amount of team support required to pull this off makes it hard to justify however.
* Substitute is useful to shield Mega Sceptile from status, Imposter transformation, and priority moves, but it does not have enough moveslots for it, and it cannot really afford to lose hp.
*On the Sheer Force set, Sludge wave guarantees a 2hKO against mega Audino but is otherwise inferior to the listed moves due to its lack of coverage.
*A Dragonium-z Soundproof set running Clanging Scales, Spore, Tail Glow and a filler move, such as substitute, can gain momentum against Imposter users since they cannot hit Mega Sceptile, which gives the Mega Sceptile user a free turn to set up Tail Glow. If the Imposter stays in, it is OHKOed by a +3 Devastating Drake. It is walled by bulky Unaware Fairy types and Steel types, making it generally inferior to the Contrary set.
*Fleur Cannon can be ran on the Contrary set to hit obscure targets such as Unaware Yveltal harder, but the loss of coverage is not worth it.

Checks and Counters
*Priority Users: Aerilate, Pixilate and Refrigerate users all land easy KOs on Mega Sceptile with their priority moves. Triage Oblivion wing deals hefty chunks of damage to Mega Sceptile as well.
*Super-effective Coverage: If the opponent's Pokemon survives Mega Sceptile's attack or if the attack misses, which is an inevitability given its non-100% accuracy, the defender can retaliate back with Ice-type moves such as Ice Beam or its physical counterpart, Ice hammer. Ice beam is often run on Sheer Force sets while Ice Hammer is mostly seen on Contrary attackers. Core Enforcer, if it does not KO, removes Mega Sceptile's ability, forcing it to switch out. Most Fairy-type attackers can 2hKO Mega Sceptile with their STAB moves.
*Entry hazards: Stealth rock and Spikes easily wear Mega Sceptile down in combination with its bad bulk and possible Life Orb recoil. Toxic Spikes puts it on a timer, while Sticky Web neuters its great speed tier, preventing it from sweeping.
*Unaware: Unaware walls that are not hit super effectively such as Mega Audino, Xerneas, or Yveltal (if not running Fleur Cannon), can easily counter Contrary Mega Sceptile, but can be beaten by the Sheer Force set.
*special Walls: Non-imposter Chansey can switch in against any of Mega Sceptile's attacks. Assault Vest Dialga has enough bulk to survive two Earth plate Judgments from Mega Sceptile one time, which is usually enough to OHKO Mega Sceptile with Core Enforcer. Assault Vest Steel types such as Dialga and Registeel have to be wary of Earth Power and Blue Flare on the Sheer Force set, which can still 2hKO them. Ho-oh can check Sceptile if it is unboosted as well, and deal massive damage back with a Flying-type STAB.
*Sturdy Shedinja: Sturdy Shedinja can force out Mega Sceptile if Sceptile foregoes Moongeist Beam.
*Ability removal: Core Enforcer, Skill Swap, Entrainment, and Gastro Acid can force out mega Sceptile since it will either be weakened after every attack if it loses Contrary, or take Life Orb recoil if it loses Sheer Force.
*Residual Damage and Status: Paralysis is perhaps the worst fate to befall a Mega Sceptile, as its frailty means that any faster Pokemon will deal hefty damage to it once it's paralyzed. Toxic makes sweeping much more difficult, while Life Orb recoil constantly wears Mega Sceptile down if it's not running Sheer Force.
 
Last edited:

RNGIsFatal

Banned deucer.
Before I begin
QCTEAMISDEADBUTITISOKAYBECAUSEILOVETOAMQCANDPEEKINTOOTHERPEOPLESBUSINESSANDIREALLYHOPETHEQCTEAMFORBALANCEDHACKMONSCOMEALIVESOMEDAY
ALSOILIKEHOWKRISLETYOUDOSECONDANALYSISWHILEIAMSTILLWAITINGFORRESPONSEFORMYSECONDANALYSIS


AM QC, comments will be bolded
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Overview
*Mega Sceptile is an underrated offensive threat due to its strong base 145 special attack and Speed stats mention what that Speed stat is, and mention what does it outspeed, and its unique Grass/Dragon typing, giving it two potent STAB types to work with.
*These strong offenses allow it to check many powerful threats including Primal Groudon, Primal Kyogr, Mega Rayquaza, Zygarde-Complete, and defensive Steel types I understand most Steel-types are passive, but they resist both STAB moves from Sceptile and this forces it to rely on coverage moves to defeat them. Won't say they are best examples.
*Grass/Dragon is a mixed bag defensively. It has useful 4x resistances to grass, Electric and Water, as well as a 2x resistance to Ground, allowing it to switch into a resisted hit from strong, bulky attackers such as Primal Groudon, Primal Kyogre, Zekrom or Kartana, and retaliate hard.
* Separated: That same typing leaves it 4x weak to Ice and 2x weak to Flying, Dragon, Bug and Fairy, which means that many common priority moves and U-turns from defensive pivots can severely damage or OHKO it. Okay in perspective of experienced BH players they know what is 'priority' but you have to specify them regardless for new players. Priority moves you mean, are most likely -ate users and Triage Mega Rayquaza so why don't you mention them?
*Mega Sceptile is difficult to counter due to the unpredictability of its sets. Balanced Hackmons lets everyone to get whatever moveset they want. I won't really say this is good statement but I would not leave it with strikeout due to Sceptile itself being rare and consequently leaving it unpredictable. I will leave this to QC. A well-played Mega Sceptile can probably land at least 1 KO per game This refers to every single relevant BH 'mons so I wouldn't mention this if I were you.

Contrary
Sceptile-mega @ Earth Plate / Spooky Plate / Life Orb
Ability: Contrary
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe
IVs: 0 Atk
Timid Nature
- Leaf Storm
- Draco Meteor I would re-order by Draco Meteor / Leaf Storm
- Overheat
- Judgment / Spore / Substitute / Moongeist Beam / Fleur Cannon / Psycho Boost I am not sure if the last two moves are really needed

Set Comments

Moves
*Leaf Storm and Draco meteor are powerful stab moves that help Mega Sceptile set up and sweep.
You should explain what each move does.
* Leaf Storm: hits Primal Kyogre and Mega Gyarados
* Draco Meteor: hits Zygarde-C, Mega Rayquaza, and Giratina

* Overheat nets solid coverage against Steel types, with a guaranteed 2HKO against non-Flash Fire Registeel and Aegislash unboosted. It also 2hKOs Assault Vest Solgaleo if you predict the switch.
* Earth Plate Judgment hits Primal Groudon and Flash Fire Steel-types, with the exception of Celesteela, harder than Sceptile's other moves and lands an easy OHKO on Mega Gengar, which it outspeeds, while making it much easier to Imposterproof. A spooky Plate allows it to OHKO Mewtwo-Mega y after Stealth Rock at +2, which none of its other moves can do in exchange of giving Sceptile harder time breaking through Steel-types.
* Spore cripples a predicted switch-in and cannot be bounced back has no consequence of being bounced back thanks to Sceptile's Grass typing.
* Substitute can be used for Sceptile to safely acquire a chance to keep itself safe from one attack which is crucial in terms of facing -ate users and keeps it from being Impostered if the opponent is too passive. This makes Leftovers a possible option, just think about it.
* Moongeist Beam is another option to bypass Unaware walls after sufficient boosts from Contrary and it also lets Sceptile reliably check Sturdy Shedinja.

* Psycho Boost can also be used to hit Mega Gengar while gaining more Special Attack, but does not otherwise give useful coverage.
* Fleur Cannon hits Unaware Yveltal, which otherwise walls this set, for a 2hKO.

I won't say these are really good moves but they are not completely useless either. I will leave this to QC as well.

Set Details
* A speed-boosting nature just say Timid is required in order to take advantage of Mega Sceptile's great speed tier, allowing it to easily outspeed Mega Mewtwo Y, Mega Gengar, and Ash Greninja.
* Contrary allows Sceptile to use its high-power moves to set up and sweep the foe at the same time.
* Earth Plate and Spooky Plate allow Mega Sceptile to have coverage that an Imposter cannot copy. Life Orb is also viable to increase the power of all its moves, allowing it to break through walls more easily.
* You didn't talk about Life Orb and I don't think Life Orb is the best option either

Usage Tips
* Mega Sceptile is best saved for the late game once checks to it such as Unaware walls have been weakened or removed. Early game, use Mega Sceptile to force switches and wear down your opponent's walls.
* Due to its frailty, Mega Sceptile must be brought in via a slow pivot or on a predicted switch. This frailty also leaves it open to lures such as Kyogre-p's or MMY's Ice Beam, Status moves such as Nuzzle or Toxic, Core Enforcer from Steel-type walls, or Fleur Cannon from Fairy-type walls. Pllay conservatively early game to scout for such moves.
* Once in, good prediction can go a really long way in breaking through the opponent's team. If you are unsure of what move to use, Leaf Storm is a safe STAB move since it has no immunities besides the rare Sap Sipper Swampert.
* If running Spore, use it liberally since Safety Goggles users are often walls that can be hit super effectively by Mega Sceptile's coverage.
* If running Judgment with a plate, Do not switch in Mega Sceptile against a Mega Gengar until you have scouted its set to see whether it is a Shell Smash or an Entrainment set. If it is the latter, you can safely switch on it the next time it comes in and surprise it.
* I can't believe you didn't mention that you should keep Sceptile safe from -ate users... just bring this guy under Psychic Terrain or just save it until -ate users are gone

Team Options
* Entry Hazard support from Deoxys-S, Primal Groudon, or Prankster Destiny bond Registeel I don't think Prankster Dbond Registeel is relevant; if you think otherwise, explain how can help pave the way for Sceptile's sweep.
*Slower, bulky attackers such as Primal Groudon, Kartana, and mega Metagross appreciate the chip damage Mega Sceptile can accrue against walls. In turn they can weaken Unaware walls to facilitate Mega Sceptile's late-game sweep.
*A check to -ate users such as Registeel or soundproof Mega Slowbro can save Mega Sceptile from being revenge KOed, while bringing it in via a slow pivot. Z-parting Shot users such as Giratina and the afformentioned Slowbro are especially nice since they can absorb Knock Off and heal Mega Sceptile back up to full if it has sustained taken damage.
* Imposter Chansey is a very useful teammate to scout for lure moves that might KO Mega Sceptile The real importance of Imposter here is scouting moves that migth potentially threaten Sceptile and help you prepare against it.
* Opposing Imposter Chansey is also extremely dangerous if it copies mega Sceptile. Flash Fire Registeel or Assault Vest Regenerator Dialga can take two hits from any stab move and recover off the damage. Unaware walls such as Mega Audino or Xerneas can keep an Imposter in check, though all of them have to run Safety Goggles if Mega Sceptile runs Spore.
*Psychic Terrain support from Mega Mewtwo Y is useful to stop priority attackers, and works especially well if Sceptile opts to run Psycho Boost. Mewtwo Mega Y and Mega Sceptile have similar checks and counters, which they can work together to weaken.
* Imposterproofing: just get Unaware Fairy-types, or run something like Sap Slipper Audino while having your Sceptile with Draco Meteor / Leaf Storm / Moongeist Beam / Substitute or others.


Sheer Force
Sceptile-mega @ Life Orb
Ability: Sheer Force
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
- Seed Flare
- Earth Power
- Blue Flare
- Spore / Ice Beam / Quiver Dance / Tail Glow

Set Comments
moves
* Seed Flare is Sceptile's best STAB move, 2hKOing most offensive threats. It also at worst 2hKOs primal Kyogre, even with an Assault Vest.
* Earth Power OHKOs Mega Gengar and hits non-Flash Fire Steel-types harder than Mega Sceptile's other moves. It is also a better move to use against Primal Groudon because it has the same amount of power, more PP, and higher accuracy.
* Blue Flare 2hKOs Steel-type switchins, whether or not they are using an Assault Vest Just mention how it threatens common stuff like AV Regen Solgaleo which is very common switch-in for Sceptile.
* Spore can cripple a predicted switch-in and cannot be bounced back due to Sceptile's Grass typing.
* Ice Beam OHKOs Mega Rayquaza and Mega Garchomp and deals at least 80% to non-Assault Vest Zygarde-C.
* Quiver Dance can be used to turn Mega Sceptile into a deadly late-game sweeper, as it outspeeds the entire unboosted Metagame after a single boost.
* Tail Glow is just better, Sceptile is shut down by -ate users with boosts from Speed and 145 Sp Atk is not enough to sweep.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Set Details
* A positive nature So what is that 'positive nature'? is required to outspeed base 130 and 140 Speed Pokemon including Mega Gengar and Mega Mewtwo forms. It also allows Mega Sceptile to outspeed neutral-natured base 90 speed Choice Scarf users such as Primal Groudon.
* Sheer Force along with a Life Orb gives Sceptile's moves a 69% power increase and removes Life Orb's recoil.

Usage tips
* Pivot Mega Sceptile against a weakened threat that it can outspeed and OHKO to force the opponent to switch or sacrifice his current Pokemon.
* Avoid letting Mega Sceptile take unneeded damage. It cannot take any more than weak resisted moves such as a Volt Switch from a defensive Pokemon. Keep entry hazards off the field to maximize Mega Sceptile's chances of survivability.
* Do not allow Mega Sceptile to lose its Life Orb, as this will significantly weaken the power of all its moves and turn potential 2hKOs into 3hKOs.
* If running Quiver Dance, do not reveal the move until all Priority users have been removed.

Team Options
* Bulky Steel-types can take priority attacks for Mega Sceptile and pivot it in safely
* Knock Off support from Yveltal, Assault Vest Solgaleo, or Mega Audino can remove Assault Vests, Safety Goggles, and leftovers from defensive Pokemon, weakening them for Mega Sceptile.
* Zygarde-C can Imposter-proof non-Ice Beam variants. If running Ice beam, Fur Coat Chansey is another useable wall.
* Entry hazard support from Deoxys-s or Primal Groudon can weaken the opposing team for a sweep.
* Bulky setup sweepers such as Poison Heal Primal Kyogre and Belly Drum Kartana appreciate Mega Sceptile's wallbreaking power.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Most of the stuff to fix here is repeated in previous set. And the example 'mons you mentioned is kinda irrelevant or very obscure, I am leaving this to QC.

Strategy Comments

Other Options
*Choice Specs gives Mega Sceptile much more power, but makes it much more difficult to sweep when locked into a single move.
*Serene Grace can be used as an alternative ability to the Sheer Force set but trades a noticeable amount of power for an 80% chance to drop Special Defense with Seed Flare.


Checks and Counters
*Priority Users: Aerilate, Pixilate and Refrigerate users all land easy KOs on Mega Sceptile with their priority moves. Triage Oblivion wing, Leech Life, and Draining Kiss deal hefty chunks of damage to Mega Sceptile as well.
*Super-effective Coverage: Mega Sceptile can be easily KOed by Ice-type moves such as Primal Kyogre's Ice Beam or Choice Scarf Primal Groudon's Ice Hammer. Core Enforcer, if it does not KO, removes Mega Sceptile's ability, forcing it to switch out. Most Fairy-type attackers can 2hKO Mega Sceptile with their STAB moves.
*Unaware: Unaware walls that are not hit super effectively such as Mega Audino, Xerneas, or Yveltal (if not running Fleur Cannon), can easily counter Contrary Mega Sceptile, but can be beaten by the Sheer Force set.
*special Walls: Non-imposter Chansey can switch in against any of Mega Sceptile's attacks. Assault Vest Dialga has enough bulk to survive two Earth plate Judgments from Mega Sceptile one time, which is usually enough to OHKO Mega Sceptile with Core Enforcer. Assault Vest Steel types such as Dialga and Registeel have to be wary of Earth Power and Blue Flare on the Sheer Force set, which can still 2hKO them. Assault Vest Ho-oh can counter Sceptile if it is unboosted and check it at +2, only fearing the rare Thunder.
*Ability removal: Core Enforcer mention how Sceptile has to watch out for even stuff like Giratina and Zygarde-C which it can win against, because Core Enforcer does massive damage to Sceptile and nullify its ability; this is devastating especially if Sceptile has Contrary, Skill Swap, Entrainment, and Simple Beam can force out mega Sceptile since it will either be weakened after every attack if it loses Contrary, or take Life Orb recoil if it loses Sheer Force.
*Residual Damage and Status: Paralysis is perhaps the worst fate to befall a Mega Sceptile, as its frailty means that any faster Pokemon will deal hefty damage to it once it's paralyzed. Toxic makes sweeping much more difficult, while Life Orb recoil constantly wears Mega Sceptile down if it's not running Sheer Force.
 

cityscapes

Take care of yourself.
is a Tiering Contributoris a Community Contributor Alumnus
am qc #2: dead qc team boogaloo
QC:
GP:

overview
*Mega Sceptile is an underrated offensive threat due to its strong base 145 special attack and Speed stats, and its unique Grass/Dragon typing, giving it two potent STAB types to work with.
*These strong offenses allow it to check many powerful threats including Primal Groudon, Primal Kyogr, Mega Rayquaza, Zygarde-Complete, and defensive Steel types.
*Grass/Dragon is a mixed bag defensively. It has useful 4x resistances to grass, Electric and Water, as well as a 2x resistance to Ground, allowing it to switch into a resisted hit from strong, bulky attackers such as Primal Groudon, Primal Kyogre, Zekrom or Kartana, and retaliate hard. you're not switching into these guys let's face it. instead say that you can come in and set up on a choice locked resisted attack or something. That same typing leaves it 4x weak to Ice and 2x weak to Flying, Dragon, Bug and Fairy, which means that many common priority moves and U-turns from defensive pivots can severely damage or OHKO it. also mention core enforcer weakness which is really really bad for both sets because sheer force loses its power and gets worn down by lo, while contrary is just flat-out forced out.
*Mega Sceptile's bad defensive stats mean that it should be kept away from any unnecessary damage such as entry hazards and status.

Contrary
Sceptile-mega @ Earth Plate / Spooky Plate / Life Orb
Ability: Contrary
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
- Leaf Storm
- Draco Meteor
- Overheat
- Judgment / Spore
why do you have both overheat and judgment? if anything they should be slashed because judgment with earth plate allows you to imposter-proof with an unaware (or prankster haze if you're brave) steel. why would you use spooky plate judgment over moongeist beam?

Set Comments

Moves
*Leaf Storm and Draco meteor are powerful stab moves that help Mega Sceptile set up and sweep. Leaf Storm 2hKOs Primal Kyogre; Mega Gyarados; and most variants of Primal Groudon, while Draco meteor hits Giratina; Zygarde-C; and Imposter switch-ins very hard.
*Overheat nets solid coverage against Steel types, with a guaranteed 2HKO against non-Flash Fire Registeel and Aegislash unboosted. It also 2hKOs Assault Vest Solgaleo if you predict the switch.
* Earth Plate Judgment hits Primal Groudon and Flash Fire Steel-types, with the exception of Celesteela, harder than Sceptile's other moves and lands an easy OHKO on Mega Gengar, which it outspeeds, while making it much easier to Imposterproof. A spooky Plate allows it to OHKO Mewtwo-Mega y after Stealth Rock at +2, which none of its other moves can do.
*Spore cripples a predicted switch-in and cannot be bounced back thanks to Sceptile's Grass typing.
* Psycho Boost can also be used to hit Mega Gengar while gaining more Special Attack, but does not otherwise give useful coverage.
* Fleur Cannon hits Unaware Yveltal, which otherwise walls this set, for a 2hKO. where do these go on the set? slash them in or don't mention them at all.
v-create is kinda nice for more speed but the power kinda sucks and it means steels are a 2hko.


Set Details
* A speed-boosting nature is required in order to take advantage of Mega Sceptile's great speed tier, allowing it to easily outspeed Mega Mewtwo Y, Mega Gengar, and Ash Greninja.
* Contrary allows Sceptile to use its high-power moves to set up and sweep the foe at the same time.
* Earth Plate and Spooky Plate allow Mega Sceptile to have coverage that an Imposter cannot copy. Life Orb is also viable to increase the power of all its moves, allowing it to break through walls more easily. mention focus sash here or i'm going to punch a wall. sash is 100% the best item on contrary sceptile, it allows it to get going even when it's up against stuff like pdon v-create and actually force it out. also without sash imposter can just kinda come in, pretty sure it takes an other attack into +2 draco and threatens you back. none of that with sash

Usage Tips
* Mega Sceptile is best saved for the late game once checks to it such as Unaware walls have been weakened or removed. Early game, use Mega Sceptile to force switches and wear down your opponent's walls.
* Due to its frailty, Mega Sceptile must be brought in via a slow pivot or on a predicted switch. This frailty also leaves it open to lures such as Kyogre-p's or MMY's Ice Beam, Status moves such as Nuzzle or Toxic, Core Enforcer from Steel-type walls, or Fleur Cannon from Fairy-type walls. fairy type walls don't run fleur cannon and all walls run core enforcer. Pllay conservatively early game to scout for such moves.
* Once in, good prediction can go a really long way in breaking through the opponent's team. If you are unsure of what move to use, Leaf Storm is a safe STAB move since it has no immunities besides the rare Sap Sipper Swampert. just say sap sipper users in general.
* If running Spore, use it liberally since Safety Goggles users are often walls that can be hit super effectively by Mega Sceptile's coverage. mention that offensive stuff like pdon usually carries no goggles, so you can click spore most of the time. also say that scept's typing means that it doesn't care about magic bounce allowing it to spam spore more.
* If running Judgment with a plate, Do not switch in Mega Sceptile against a Mega Gengar until you have scouted its set to see whether it is a Shell Smash or an Entrainment set. If it is the latter, you can safely switch on it the next time it comes in and surprise it. "safely" isn't a very good choice of words here, it can still smack you on the switch with judgment. i'm pretty sure your judgment doesn't ko from full either. scept should not be your mega gengar switchin.
also mention that prankster destiny bond is some teams' only answer to scept so be cautious around prankster users.


Team Options
* Entry Hazard support from Deoxys-s, Primal Groudon, Zygarde-C or Aegislash can help pave the way for Sceptile's sweep. mention that they preserve your sash, beat shed if no moongeist, and break opposing sashes.
*Slower, bulky attackers such as Primal Groudon, Kartana, and mega Metagross appreciate the chip damage Mega Sceptile can accrue against walls. In turn they can weaken Unaware walls such as Mega Audino and Xerneas to facilitate Mega Sceptile's late-game sweep. no one leaves mega audino in on a steel type or pdon. mention that you can double switch these guys in by threatening stuff out with sceptile, or give them opportunities to come in/break by using spore. also these mons have nice offensive synergy with scept
*A check to -ate users such as Registeel or soundproof Mega Slowbro can save Mega Sceptile from being revenge KOed, while bringing it in via a slow pivot. Z-parting Shot users such as Giratina and the afformentioned Slowbro are especially nice since they can absorb Knock Off and heal Mega Sceptile back up to full if it has sustained damage.
* Imposter Chansey is a very useful teammate to scout for lure moves that might KO Mega Sceptile.
* Opposing Imposter Chansey is also extremely dangerous if it copies mega Sceptile. Flash Fire Registeel or Assault Vest Regenerator Dialga can take two hits from any stab move and recover off the damage. Unaware walls such as Mega Audino or Xerneas can keep an Imposter in check, though all of them have to run Safety Goggles if Mega Sceptile runs Spore. av regen dialga is the shakiest imposter answer i've ever seen. ff regi isn't much better. both need to be at really high hp to switch in consistently on stuff like draco (which imposter will use ofc because it's super effective on scept). i get how they can recover but how are they gonna beat imposter or force it out when it just keeps boosting? topsy-turvy? i would say core enforcer stops it but that's not really true when imposter gets two opportunities to boost before you even have the chance to use it. unaware users are much more reliable
*Psychic Terrain support from Mega Mewtwo Y is useful to stop priority attackers, and works especially well if Sceptile opts to run Psycho Boost. Mewtwo Mega Y and Mega Sceptile have similar checks and counters, which they can work together to weaken.


Sheer Force
Sceptile-mega @ Life Orb
Ability: Sheer Force
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
- Seed Flare
- Earth Power
- Blue Flare
- Ice Beam / Spore / Tail Glow

Set Comments
moves
* Seed Flare is Sceptile's best STAB move, 2hKOing most offensive threats. It also at worst 2hKOs primal Kyogre, even with an Assault Vest.
* Earth Power OHKOs Mega Gengar and hits non-Flash Fire Steel-types harder than Mega Sceptile's other moves. It is also a better move to use against Primal Groudon because it has the same amount of power, more PP, and perfect accuracy.
* Blue Flare 2hKOs Steel-type switchins, whether or not they are using an Assault Vest.
* Ice Beam OHKOs Mega Rayquaza and Mega Garchomp and deals at least 80% to non-Assault Vest Zygarde-C.
* Spore can cripple a predicted switch-in and cannot be bounced back due to Sceptile's Grass typing.
* Tail Glow can be used to turn Mega Sceptile into a deadly late-game sweeper, increasing its special attack by 3 stages and allowing it to brute force its way past walls.
honestly i'd say that tail glow should not be slashed with ice beam because you need that extra power to threaten imposter at +3. slash with earth power instead.

Set Details
* A positive nature is required to outspeed base 130 and 140 Speed Pokemon including Mega Gengar and Mega Mewtwo forms. It also allows Mega Sceptile to outspeed neutral-natured base 90 speed Choice Scarf users such as Primal Groudon.
* Sheer Force along with a Life Orb gives Sceptile's moves a 69% power increase and removes Life Orb's recoil.

Usage tips
* Pivot Mega Sceptile against a weakened threat that it can outspeed and OHKO to force the opponent to switch or sacrifice his current Pokemon. Most offensive threats do not need to be damaged too much for mega Sceptile to faint them (Primal Groudon takes at least 60% from Earth Power, Mega Mewtwo Y at least 75% from Seed Flare, etc.) Predicting a switch can put the Mega Sceptile user in an excellent position, especially if a Steel-type switch is is hit super effectively.
* Remember that Seed Flare's 80% accuracy is as bad as Stone Edge's. A missed Seed Flare can result in the loss of Mega Sceptile.
* Avoid letting Mega Sceptile take unneeded damage. It cannot take any more than weak resisted moves such as a Volt Switch from a defensive Pokemon. Keep entry hazards off the field to maximize Mega Sceptile's chances of survivability.
* Do not allow Mega Sceptile to lose its Life Orb, as this will significantly weaken the power of all its moves and turn potential 2hKOs into 3hKOs.
* If running Tail Glow, do not reveal the move until all Priority users have been removed.
say that you want to set up tail glow on something easily forced out like fc ogre, also scout for prankster haze users like regi and try to remove/weaken them with your other moves first.

Team Options
* Bulky Steel-types can take priority attacks for Mega Sceptile and pivot it in safely. Registeel, Solgaleo, and Aegislash can all provide a slow pivot as well as great team support.
* Knock Off support from Yveltal, Assault Vest Solgaleo, or Mega Audino can remove Assault Vests, Safety Goggles, and leftovers from defensive Pokemon, weakening them for Mega Sceptile.
* Zygarde-C can Imposter-proof non-Ice Beam variants. If running Ice beam, Chansey or Primordial Sea Celesteela are other useable options. mention that if you're tail glow, they need unaware.
* Entry hazard support from Deoxys-s, Giratina, or Primal Groudon can weaken the opposing team for a sweep.
* Bulky setup sweepers such as Poison Heal Primal Kyogre, Poison Heal Regigigas, and Belly Drum Kartana appreciate Mega Sceptile's wallbreaking power. Poison Heal Pokemon can also safely spread status against the opposing team.

Strategy Comments

Other Options
*Choice Specs gives Mega Sceptile much more power, but makes it much more difficult to sweep when locked into a single move.
*Serene Grace can be used as an alternative ability to the Sheer Force set but trades a noticeable amount of power for an 80% chance to drop Special Defense with Seed Flare.
* Substitute is useful to shield Mega Sceptile from status and priority moves, but it does not have enough moveslots for it, and it cannot really afford to lose hp.
*Grassium-Z on the Contrary set allows Mega Sceptile to surprise Unaware walls, but the loss of power or coverage is generally not worth the moveslot.
soundproof scept also definitely deserves a mention, it uses clanging scales/tail glow/sub/filler with dragonium z to imposter-proof itself. even if you use dragonium on the wrong mon you still pp stall imposter, and you also prevent it from transforming if you have a sub. pretty good set.

Checks and Counters
*Priority Users: Aerilate, Pixilate and Refrigerate users all land easy KOs on Mega Sceptile with their priority moves. Triage Oblivion wing, Leech Life, and Draining Kiss deal hefty chunks of damage to Mega Sceptile as well.
*Super-effective Coverage: Mega Sceptile can be easily KOed by Ice-type moves such as Primal Kyogre's Ice Beam or Choice Scarf Primal Groudon's Ice Hammer. Core Enforcer, if it does not KO, removes Mega Sceptile's ability, forcing it to switch out. Most Fairy-type attackers can 2hKO Mega Sceptile with their STAB moves.
*Entry hazards: Stealth rock and Spikes easily wear Mega Sceptile down in combination with its bad bulk and possible Life Orb recoil. Toxic Spikes puts it on a timer, while Sticky Web neuters its great speed tier, preventing it from sweeping.
*Unaware: Unaware walls that are not hit super effectively such as Mega Audino, Xerneas, or Yveltal (if not running Fleur Cannon), can easily counter Contrary Mega Sceptile, but can be beaten by the Sheer Force set.
*special Walls: Non-imposter Chansey can switch in against any of Mega Sceptile's attacks. Assault Vest Dialga has enough bulk to survive two Earth plate Judgments from Mega Sceptile one time, which is usually enough to OHKO Mega Sceptile with Core Enforcer. Assault Vest Steel types such as Dialga and Registeel have to be wary of Earth Power and Blue Flare on the Sheer Force set, which can still 2hKO them. Assault Vest Ho-oh can counter Sceptile if it is unboosted and check it at +2, only fearing the rare Thunder.
*Ability removal: Core Enforcer, Skill Swap, Entrainment, and Gastro Acid can force out mega Sceptile since it will either be weakened after every attack if it loses Contrary, or take Life Orb recoil if it loses Sheer Force.
*Residual Damage and Status: Paralysis is perhaps the worst fate to befall a Mega Sceptile, as its frailty means that any faster Pokemon will deal hefty damage to it once it's paralyzed. Toxic makes sweeping much more difficult, while Life Orb recoil constantly wears Mega Sceptile down if it's not running Sheer Force.
mention imposter too, it forces you out unless you're using contrary with an intact sash.
L
 

SuperSkylake
Overview
*Mega Sceptile is an underrated offensive threat due to its strong base 145 special attack and Speed stats, and its unique Grass/Dragon typing, giving it two potent STAB types to work with. (Underrated is subjective, say it has a solid offensive niche)
*These strong offenses allow it to check many powerful threats including Primal Groudon, Primal Kyogr, Mega Rayquaza, Zygarde-Complete, and defensive Steel types. (Leaf Storm does 48.2 - 57.1% to PDon and where do you get off saying it checks Steels when it's the other way around. Remove those two from the list)
(Mention its ability to force switches thanks to its high Speed, enabling it to begin boosting with Leaf Storm / Draco Meteor and potentially sweep.)

*Grass/Dragon is a mixed bag defensively. It has useful 4x resistances to grass, Electric and Water, as well as a 2x resistance to Ground, allowing it to switch into a resisted hit from strong, bulky attackers such as Primal Groudon, Primal Kyogre, Zekrom or Kartana, and retaliate hard. That same typing leaves it 4x weak to Ice and 2x weak to Flying, Dragon, Bug and Fairy, which means that many common priority moves and U-turns from defensive pivots can severely damage or OHKO it. (Quad resisting Grass is almost worthless, the only instance I'd imagine it could come in handy is vs a CB Kartana locked into Power Whip. Get rid of that. Also these resistances don't enable it to switch into any of the threats you've mentioned. Also no defensive mon's U-turn is OHKOing Mega Sceptile. Revise this bullet point.)
*Mega Sceptile's bad defensive stats mean that it should be kept away from any unnecessary damage such as entry hazards and status. (What's the connection between poor defensive statistics and entry hazards / status? I'd imagine I'd want to keep it away from damaging moves that would take advantage of its poor defensive stats.

Contrary
Sceptile-mega @ Focus Sash / Earth Plate / Life Orb (Focus Sash > Life Orb > Earth Plate)
Ability: Contrary
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
(0 Attack IVs)
- Leaf Storm
- Draco Meteor
- Overheat / Judgment
- Spore / Moongeist beam / Fleur Cannon
(Fleur Cannon is redundant)
Set Comments

Moves
*Leaf Storm and Draco Meteor are powerful stab moves that help Mega Sceptile set up and sweep. Leaf Storm 2hKOs Primal Kyogre; Mega Gyarados; and most variants of Primal Groudon, while Draco meteor hits Giratina; Zygarde-C; and Imposter switch-ins very hard.
*Overheat nets solid coverage against Steel types, with a guaranteed 2HKO against non-Flash Fire Registeel and Aegislash unboosted. It also 2hKOs Assault Vest Solgaleo if you predict the switch. ("if you predict the switch" implies predicting is necessary for it to get 2HKO'd which is false.)
* Earth Plate Judgment hits Primal Groudon and Flash Fire Steel-types, with the exception of Celesteela (Most Flash Fire Steel-types), harder than Sceptile's other moves and lands an easy OHKO on Mega Gengar (252 SpA Earth Plate Sceptile-Mega Judgment vs. 252 HP / 252 SpD Gengar-Mega: 232-274 (71.6 - 84.5%) -- guaranteed 2HKO) [There's no point in using Judgment vs Mega Gengar when you can just Draco and gain stats], which it outspeeds, while making it much easier to Imposterproof.
*Spore cripples a predicted switch-in and cannot be bounced back thanks to Sceptile's Grass typing. (Why is it necessary that the switch-in be predicted? Mega Sceptile is fast enough to just outright Spore its most likely slower opponent. Also it can be bounced back, but Mega Sceptile's Grass-type renders it immune to Spore. Change the wording to reflect this.)
* Moongeist Beam severely damages Mega Gengar and mega Mewtwo Y, and KOs Sturdy Shedinja. (Again, no point in using Moongeist Beam against a Mega Gengar or Mega Mewtwo Y since it's only a tiny bit stronger than Draco Meteor is, with no +2 boost. Realistically it is only useful for ignoring Unaware or hitting Shedinja. Change this.)
* Fleur Cannon hits Unaware Yveltal, which otherwise walls this set, for a 2HKO. (Too specific of a reason to justify recommending, remove this)

Set Details
* A speed-boosting nature is required in order to take advantage of Mega Sceptile's great speed tier, allowing it to easily outspeed Mega Mewtwo Y, Mega Gengar, and Ash Greninja. (Mega Mewtwo X is an infinitely better example than Ash-Greninja)
* Contrary allows Sceptile to use its high-power moves to set up and sweep the foe at the same time.
* Focus Sash is generally the best item as it guarantees that an Imposter will take massive damage if the Sash is intact.
* Earth Plate and Spooky Plate allow Mega Sceptile to have coverage that an Imposter cannot copy. Life Orb is also viable to increase the power of all its moves, allowing it to break through walls more easily. (Spooky Plate ?????????????? Also give an example of how Life Orb allows it to break through something that it otherwise wouldn't)

Usage Tips
* Mega Sceptile is best saved for the late game once checks to it such as Unaware walls have been weakened or removed. Early game, use Mega Sceptile to force switches and wear down your opponent's walls.
* Due to its frailty, Mega Sceptile must be brought in via a slow pivot or on a predicted switch. This frailty also leaves it open to lures such as Kyogre-p's or MMY's Ice Beam (No human being switches Sceptile in on a Mewtwo, so 'lure' is the wrong term. Remove mentions of Kyogre & Mewtwo's Ice Beam luring in Mega Sceptile), Status moves such as Nuzzle or Toxic, Core Enforcer from Steel-type walls, or Moonblast from Fairy-type walls (Fairy-type walls don't commonly run Moonblast). Pllay conservatively early game to scout for such moves.
* Once in, good prediction can go a really long way in breaking through the opponent's team. If you are unsure of what move to use, Leaf Storm is a safe STAB move since it has no immunities besides the rare Sap Sipper.
*If Imposter switches in, such as after a fainted teammate, Mega Sceptile can stay in if its Focus Sash is intact and it has gained a Special Attack boost from using a Contrary move. +2 Draco meteor does massive damage to an Imposter, who will have to risk taking at least one and perhaps two of them depending on the result of the speed tie. (This isn't recommended. Suggest the user have an improof in the back as this is obviously not reliable at all)
* If running Spore, use it liberally since Safety Goggles users are often walls that can be hit super effectively by Mega Sceptile's coverage. (This makes 0 sense)
* If running Judgment with a plate, you can use Sceptile to soft check Mega Gengar and Mega Mewtwo Y after prior damage, forcing them out. (Mega Sceptile checks them anyway. This is redundant. Remove this bullet point)

Team Options
* Entry Hazard support from Deoxys-s, Primal Groudon, Zygarde-C or Aegislash can help pave the way for Sceptile's sweep, while also preventing Shedinja frm switching in. (You don't need to mention specific entry hazard users since anything can use them. Readers will just think there's some specific reason why the four Pokemon mentioned have to be used when in reality there isn't one. Also explain how hazards "pave the way for Sceptile's sweep".
*Slower, bulky attackers such as Primal Groudon, Kartana, and mega Metagross appreciate the chip damage Mega Sceptile can accrue against walls. In turn they can weaken Unaware walls such as Mega Audino and Xerneas to facilitate Mega Sceptile's late-game sweep. (Pick a better example than Xerneas)
*A check to -ate users such as Registeel or soundproof Mega Slowbro (What Generation am I in again? No one uses this set, pick a better example) can save Mega Sceptile from being revenge KOed, while bringing it in via a slow pivot. Z-parting Shot users such as Giratina and the afformentioned Slowbro (Anything can use Z-Parting Shot, no need to name specific examples in this instance) are especially nice since they can absorb Knock Off (How is this relevant) and heal Mega Sceptile back up to full if it has sustained damage.
* Imposter Chansey is a very useful teammate to scout for lure moves that might KO Mega Sceptile. (This applies to literally any Pokemon in the game)
* Opposing Imposter Chansey is also extremely dangerous if it copies mega Sceptile. Flash Fire Registeel or Assault Vest Regenerator Dialga can take two hits from any stab move and recover off the damage (Assault Vest Dialga gets 2HKO'd at +2). Unaware walls such as Mega Audino or Xerneas (Pick a better example than Xerneas) can keep an Imposter in check, though all of them have to run Safety Goggles if Mega Sceptile runs Spore.
*Psychic Terrain support from Mega Mewtwo Y is useful to stop priority attackers, and works especially well if Sceptile opts to run Psycho Boost (Don't recommend this move). Mewtwo Mega Y and Mega Sceptile have similar checks and counters, which they can work together to weaken. Mewtwo-Mega-Y can take care of Sturdy Shedinja using Moongeist Beam, preventing it from walling mega Sceptile. (Getting rid of Shedinja isn't the example I'd use, especially considering you slashed Moongeist Beam in this set. Luring checks like Steel-types and Unaware Yveltal or something with Sheer Force Mewtwo is what I'd say.)

Sheer Force
Sceptile-mega @ Life Orb
Ability: Sheer Force
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 252 SpA / 252 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
- Seed Flare
- Earth Power / Tail Glow
- Blue Flare
- Ice Beam / Spore

Set Comments
moves
* Seed Flare is Sceptile's best STAB move, 2hKOing most offensive threats. It also at worst 2hKOs primal Kyogre, even with an Assault Vest.
* Earth Power OHKOs Mega Gengar and hits non-Flash Fire Steel-types harder than Mega Sceptile's other moves. It is also a better move to use against Primal Groudon because it has the same amount of power, more PP, and perfect accuracy.
* Blue Flare 2hKOs Steel-type switchins, whether or not they are using an Assault Vest.
* Ice Beam OHKOs Mega Rayquaza and Mega Garchomp and deals at least 80% to non-Assault Vest Zygarde-C.
* Spore can cripple a predicted switch-in and cannot be bounced back due to Sceptile's Grass typing.
* Tail Glow can be used to turn Mega Sceptile into a deadly late-game sweeper, increasing its special attack by 3 stages and allowing it to brute force its way past walls.

Set Details
* A positive nature is required to outspeed base 130 and 140 Speed Pokemon including Mega Gengar and Mega Mewtwo forms. It also allows Mega Sceptile to outspeed neutral-natured base 90 speed Choice Scarf users such as Primal Groudon.
* Sheer Force along with a Life Orb gives Sceptile's moves a 69% power increase and removes Life Orb's recoil.

Usage tips
* Pivot Mega Sceptile against a weakened threat that it can outspeed and OHKO to force the opponent to switch or sacrifice his current Pokemon. Most offensive threats do not need to be damaged too much for mega Sceptile to faint them (Primal Groudon takes at least 60% from Earth Power, Mega Mewtwo Y at least 75% from Seed Flare, etc.) Predicting a switch can put the Mega Sceptile user in an excellent position, especially if a Steel-type switch is is hit super effectively.
* Remember that Seed Flare's 80% accuracy is as bad as Stone Edge's. A missed Seed Flare can result in the loss of Mega Sceptile.
* Avoid letting Mega Sceptile take unneeded damage. It cannot take any more than weak resisted moves such as a Volt Switch from a defensive Pokemon. Keep entry hazards off the field to maximize Mega Sceptile's chances of survivability.
* Do not allow Mega Sceptile to lose its Life Orb, as this will significantly weaken the power of all its moves and turn potential 2hKOs into 3hKOs.
* If running Tail Glow, do not reveal the move until the late game, when all Priority and Unaware users have been removed. Use Tail Glow on a predicted switch, then start rampaging through the opponent's weakened team with it.

Team Options
* Bulky Steel-types can take priority attacks for Mega Sceptile and pivot it in safely. Registeel, Solgaleo, and Aegislash can all provide a slow pivot as well as great team support. Assault Vest Primal Kyogre can serve the same purpose and maintains a strong offensive presence.
* Knock Off support from Yveltal, Assault Vest Solgaleo, or Mega Audino can remove Assault Vests, Safety Goggles, and leftovers from defensive Pokemon, weakening them for Mega Sceptile.
* Zygarde-C can Imposter-proof non-Ice Beam variants. If running Ice beam, Chansey or Primordial Sea Celesteela are other useable options. If running Tail Glow, these Pokemon must run Unaware so that one can boost safely against an Imposter. Sturdy Shedinja is also a competent Imposter counter without entry hazards on the field, but Mega Sceptile can never risk switching in if hazards are up, neutering much of its threat value.
* Entry hazard support from Deoxys-s, Giratina, or Mega Audino can weaken the opposing team for a sweep and prevent opposing Sturdy Shedinja from walling mega Sceptile.
* Bulky setup sweepers such as Poison Heal Primal Kyogre and Poison Heal Regigigas appreciate Mega Sceptile's wallbreaking power. Poison Heal Pokemon can also safely spread status against the opposing team.
*Aerilate, Pixilate and Refrigerate users such as Mega Rayquaza, Mega Diancie, and Kyurem-b appreciate the removal of Steel types that would otherwise easily take their hits.

(Unset)

Strategy Comments

Other Options
*Choice Specs gives Mega Sceptile much more power, but makes it much more difficult to sweep when locked into a single move.
* Substitute is useful to shield Mega Sceptile from status, Imposter transformation, and priority moves, but it does not have enough moveslots for it, and it cannot really afford to lose hp.
*On the Sheer Force set, Sludge wave guarantees a 2hKO against mega Audino but is otherwise inferior to the listed moves due to its lack of coverage.
*A Soundproof set running Clanging Scales, Spore, Tail Glow and a filler move, such as substitute, with Dragonium-Z can gain momentum against Imposter users since they cannot hit Mega Sceptile, which gives the Mega Sceptile user a free turn to set up Tail Glow. If the Imposter stays in, it is OHKOed by a +3 Devastating Drake. The set only works well against more defenesive teams, wasting Sceptile's qualities as an anti-offense Pokemon. (Says who? Can you provide reasoning why you think only defensive teams are troubled by this Mega Sceptile set?)
*Serene Grace can be used as an gimmicky alternative ability to the Sheer Force set but trades a noticeable amount of power for an 80% chance to drop Special Defense with Seed Flare, which can force switches. (No thanks)
(Mention how Mega Sceptile can be ran as an AOA Pokemon with an ability like Tinted Lens only alongside Grassy Surge support to crush supposed counters like Registeel or whatever on the switch-in.)


Checks and Counters
*Priority Users: Aerilate, Pixilate and Refrigerate users (like????) all land easy KOs on Mega Sceptile with their priority moves. Triage Oblivion wing (from...), Leech Life, and Draining Kiss deal hefty chunks of damage to Mega Sceptile as well. (Please never mention Draining Kiss or Leech Life in a BH analysis again. Unless you're talking Mega Heracross or something)
*Super-effective Coverage: Mega Sceptile can be easily KOed by Ice-type moves such as Ice Beam (run on Primal Kyogre and Sheer Force Mega Mewtwo Y) or its physical counterpart, Ice hammer (run on Contrary users such as Mega Mewtwo X. Core Enforcer, if it does not KO, removes Mega Sceptile's ability, forcing it to switch out. Most Fairy-type attackers can 2hKO Mega Sceptile with their STAB moves. (There's a lot wrong with this. For one, the grammar is appalling. How is anyone supposed to understand this? Here, talk about how Mega Sceptile is threatened by Pokemon that are able to tank one of its hits at +0 and retaliate back (Mewtwo Y, Mega Gengar, something with Core Enforcer, pretty much anything).
*Entry hazards: Stealth rock and Spikes easily wear Mega Sceptile down in combination with its bad bulk (Mega Sceptile's bad bulk isn't responsible for wearing itself down) and possible Life Orb recoil. Toxic Spikes puts it on a timer, while Sticky Web neuters its great speed tier, preventing it from sweeping.
*Unaware: Unaware walls that are not hit super effectively such as Mega Audino, Xerneas, or Yveltal (if not running Fleur Cannon), can easily counter Contrary Mega Sceptile, but can be beaten by the Sheer Force set.
*special Walls: Non-imposter Chansey can switch in against any of Mega Sceptile's attacks. Assault Vest Dialga has enough bulk to survive two Earth plate Judgments from Mega Sceptile one time, which is usually enough to OHKO Mega Sceptile with Core Enforcer. Assault Vest Steel types such as Dialga and Registeel have to be wary of Earth Power and Blue Flare on the Sheer Force set, which can still 2hKO them. Assault Vest Ho-oh can counter Sceptile if it is unboosted and check it at +2, only fearing the rare Thunder. (AV Ho-Oh doesn't exist, Thunder Mega Sceptile doesn't exist. Use better examples)
*Sturdy Shedinja: Sturdy Shedinja can force out Mega Sceptile if Sceptile forgoes Moongeist Beam.
*Ability removal: Core Enforcer, Skill Swap, Entrainment, and Gastro Acid can force out mega Sceptile since it will either be weakened after every attack if it loses Contrary, or take Life Orb recoil if it loses Sheer Force.
*Residual Damage and Status: Paralysis is perhaps the worst fate to befall a Mega Sceptile, as its frailty means that any faster Pokemon will deal hefty damage to it once it's paralyzed. Toxic makes sweeping much more difficult, while Life Orb recoil constantly wears Mega Sceptile down if it's not running Sheer Force.
There's a ton of spelling and grammar errors you can just fix right now to save yourself and whoever has to grammar check this later the trouble. It's so bad in some parts that I couldn't even understand what you were saying. You really should put effort into that, this isn't just some odd forum post after all.
 
Implemented. I did not not remove the sheer force set, but will wait to see what the other c&c members have to say about it. I still believe in that set, even if it is' objectively better than MMY.
 
Would you rather have me reject this completely? Ignoring my post in favor of waiting for the other's opinions is not a luxury you have. Stop being so uncooperative. I don't like to have to spend chunks of my time reviewing analyses like this only to have it ignored.

Having said that you've failed to address a fair number of my points AGAIN, so please look over my post thoroughly and make the necessary changes.
 
Last edited:

Users Who Are Viewing This Thread (Users: 1, Guests: 1)

Top