Contents
I. Introduction
II. Team Building
III. In-Depth Analysis
IV. Threat List & Match-ups
V. Importable for Pokemon Showdown
VI. Conclusion
VII. Acknowledgements
I. Introduction
Greetings, I am Lycon from Athens, Greece, holder of both Geology and Civil Engineering degrees. I welcome you to my first RMT. My love and passion for my fields of study is many times reflected subconsciously in various activities and hobbies I do even in the case of Pokemon, hence the team I am showcasing here, ''Sandstorm Equilibrium''. I have been playing Pokemon since Generation 1, was drawn into the competitive scene during Generation 4 and been active on the Pokemon Showdown Ladder mainly since Generation 6 on ward. Unlike a typical RMT, this team embodies my entire experience in the Overused Tier. Being silent in the forums for years, I now at the end of Pokemon Sun/Moon feel the journey and success story of this team is finally complete. It is something I am happy and proud to share as my contribution to Smogon and the Pokemon Community.
Lycon: 28/02/2017 Team Version 1.0
LT41G Lycon: OLT Cycle 1: 6/08/2017 Team Version 2.0
Lycon: 16/10/2017 Team Version 2.5
LT41G Lycon: OLT Cycle 1: 6/08/2017 Team Version 2.0
Lycon: 16/10/2017 Team Version 2.5
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II. Team Building
From the team preview above, one can quickly comprehend the name "Sandstorm Equilibrium''. A sandstorm type team representing my love for Geology coupled with a Balance play-style reflecting my Engineering mindset. What I do find true success is not only the team's consistent peaks on the ladder throughout the entire Sun/Moon meta-game but it simultaneously having a representative nature of my fields of expertise whilst containing my favourite Pokemon, it's a reflection of myself. In the below Team Building History/Analysis I dissect each step of the team's evolution up to its current state throughout the different Generations.
The Journey's Beginning
Generation 4 D/P/PT
As a Tyranitar lover since its first appearance in Pokemon Gold/Silver most of my competitive teams would involve or even be built around this Pokemon. Its base stats, move-pool and Sand Stream Ability make Tyranitar a considerable threat in every OU meta-game. As a Balance oriented player, I wished to create a team that can take on anything, including competing in weather wars if necessary. Thus, Tyranitar was and is my go to Pokemon.
+
Heatran paired with Celebi makes a very solid core. I discovered it on the Smogon Forums and quickly saw its capabilities after online battles on Marriland and Serebii Forums. Here, Celebi works as a status checker and the surprise factor of the team carrying HP Fire while Heatran serves as a Mixed Sweeper.
+
Scizor directly came to mind when deciding for a priority move user as it makes a very solid partner with Heatran who covers its weakness. Zapdos was selected as the physically defensive tank and the ground immunity of the team. In the specific Generation, it carried HP Grass to surprise incoming Swamperts.
Finally, the team was balanced out with a Ground/Water type, Swampert, a solid Stealth Rock user and phaser, something the team lacked. The combination of Swampert's typing and move-set complimented and rounded out the team.
Into The Competitive Scene
Generation 6 X/Y and OR/AS
The initial core from Generation 4 and Tyranitar remained. Heatran became the Stealth Rocker of the team due to the absence of Swampert. Once the team members were finalized Tyranitar took the role of a Special Defensive tank with the primary objectives of absorbing hits and pursuit trapping while Celebi's role remained unchanged.
----->
The first roster change was Swampert for Quagsire. It became apparent that Quagsire was a more reliable tank/wall with its access to Recover. Furthermore, the team would not require phasing (Roar) opposing set-up Pokemon in most cases due to Quagsire’s Unaware Ability. Quagsire also served as the ''hidden card'' of the team packing Stockpile which would on many occasions straight up beat entire teams not carrying toxic or if their toxic user was taken out in battle previously.
----->
Playing Pokemon competitively I quickly became aware that the previous version of the team struggled with the stall match-up. Introducing Gengar gave the team a stall breaker it needed and filled Zapdos's spot as the ground immunity of the team.
----->
With the introduction to Megas', Mega-Pinsir was added to the roster by replacing Scizor, taking the role of revenge killer and sweeper of the team. The team appreciated having a second ground immunity and Mega-Pinsir's Ability which allowed it to take care of certain threats reliably that the team could not do as well before.
The team was successful in the X&Y Metagame with a peak at the top 10 of the OU ladder. It shied from the first ranks due to its inability to remove hazards.
Piercing The Heavens
Generation 7 S/M
Although only two Pokemon remained in the roster from the previous version of the team, the roles/types of the Pokemon that were added were chosen with a similar philosophy in mind. The initial Generation 4 and final version of the team has a very similar, almost identical roster.
+
----->
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Quagsire's typing was spread out between Tapu Fini and Zygarde. For the balance team to encompass and ‘’deal with everything’’, a terrain setter was thought to be essential. The Misty Terrain allows not only to check for status (role previously assigned to Celebi) but entirely prevent them. Furthermore, it’s a tool for disrupting the opposing trainer’s terrain and/or game strategy. Tapu-Fini’s Misty terrain proved to be a key component for the success of the team. The access to Defog rid the team’s previous weakness to hazards. Due to the popular U-Turn cores in the metagame, in the forms of Landorous-T, Greninja, Pheromosa etc. and the common Knock Off, Celebi could not fulfil its role effectively. On the other hand, Zygarde could fill the ground typing and the set-up sweeper role. Initially, Garchomp and Zygarde 10% were experimented with but it was concluded that Zygarde 50% with its bulk and access to Thousand Arrows was the optimal option for the Balance team.
----->
Gengar's loss of the Levitate Ability made me immediately switch back to Zapdos as the Ground Immunity of the team. Having a more offensive team in the presence of Zygarde as opposed to Celebi, the team appreciated a new Pokemon that could tank hits and Roost. Zapdos could serve that role while balancing the team out in terms of typing and the offense vs defence scale.
----->
Scizor made its return by taking on Mega-Pinsir's role in the form of Mega-Scizor. Mega-Scizor can serve as an off-tank due to its shear base stats and access to Roost which prolongs its survive-ability and cover the role Mega-Pinsir previously had. Having the option to absorb hits or sweep depending on the situation fits the Balance philosophy. Concluding, Mega-Scizor gives more flexibility to adapt to the opponent. The nerf to Mega-Pinsir's ability and the limited amount of times it can switch in due to the presence of Stealth Rock was something I took into account when deciding on this change.
Generation 4 D/P/PT
As a Tyranitar lover since its first appearance in Pokemon Gold/Silver most of my competitive teams would involve or even be built around this Pokemon. Its base stats, move-pool and Sand Stream Ability make Tyranitar a considerable threat in every OU meta-game. As a Balance oriented player, I wished to create a team that can take on anything, including competing in weather wars if necessary. Thus, Tyranitar was and is my go to Pokemon.
Heatran paired with Celebi makes a very solid core. I discovered it on the Smogon Forums and quickly saw its capabilities after online battles on Marriland and Serebii Forums. Here, Celebi works as a status checker and the surprise factor of the team carrying HP Fire while Heatran serves as a Mixed Sweeper.
Scizor directly came to mind when deciding for a priority move user as it makes a very solid partner with Heatran who covers its weakness. Zapdos was selected as the physically defensive tank and the ground immunity of the team. In the specific Generation, it carried HP Grass to surprise incoming Swamperts.
Finally, the team was balanced out with a Ground/Water type, Swampert, a solid Stealth Rock user and phaser, something the team lacked. The combination of Swampert's typing and move-set complimented and rounded out the team.
Into The Competitive Scene
Generation 6 X/Y and OR/AS
The initial core from Generation 4 and Tyranitar remained. Heatran became the Stealth Rocker of the team due to the absence of Swampert. Once the team members were finalized Tyranitar took the role of a Special Defensive tank with the primary objectives of absorbing hits and pursuit trapping while Celebi's role remained unchanged.
The first roster change was Swampert for Quagsire. It became apparent that Quagsire was a more reliable tank/wall with its access to Recover. Furthermore, the team would not require phasing (Roar) opposing set-up Pokemon in most cases due to Quagsire’s Unaware Ability. Quagsire also served as the ''hidden card'' of the team packing Stockpile which would on many occasions straight up beat entire teams not carrying toxic or if their toxic user was taken out in battle previously.
Playing Pokemon competitively I quickly became aware that the previous version of the team struggled with the stall match-up. Introducing Gengar gave the team a stall breaker it needed and filled Zapdos's spot as the ground immunity of the team.
With the introduction to Megas', Mega-Pinsir was added to the roster by replacing Scizor, taking the role of revenge killer and sweeper of the team. The team appreciated having a second ground immunity and Mega-Pinsir's Ability which allowed it to take care of certain threats reliably that the team could not do as well before.
The team was successful in the X&Y Metagame with a peak at the top 10 of the OU ladder. It shied from the first ranks due to its inability to remove hazards.
Piercing The Heavens
Generation 7 S/M
Although only two Pokemon remained in the roster from the previous version of the team, the roles/types of the Pokemon that were added were chosen with a similar philosophy in mind. The initial Generation 4 and final version of the team has a very similar, almost identical roster.
Quagsire's typing was spread out between Tapu Fini and Zygarde. For the balance team to encompass and ‘’deal with everything’’, a terrain setter was thought to be essential. The Misty Terrain allows not only to check for status (role previously assigned to Celebi) but entirely prevent them. Furthermore, it’s a tool for disrupting the opposing trainer’s terrain and/or game strategy. Tapu-Fini’s Misty terrain proved to be a key component for the success of the team. The access to Defog rid the team’s previous weakness to hazards. Due to the popular U-Turn cores in the metagame, in the forms of Landorous-T, Greninja, Pheromosa etc. and the common Knock Off, Celebi could not fulfil its role effectively. On the other hand, Zygarde could fill the ground typing and the set-up sweeper role. Initially, Garchomp and Zygarde 10% were experimented with but it was concluded that Zygarde 50% with its bulk and access to Thousand Arrows was the optimal option for the Balance team.
Gengar's loss of the Levitate Ability made me immediately switch back to Zapdos as the Ground Immunity of the team. Having a more offensive team in the presence of Zygarde as opposed to Celebi, the team appreciated a new Pokemon that could tank hits and Roost. Zapdos could serve that role while balancing the team out in terms of typing and the offense vs defence scale.
Scizor made its return by taking on Mega-Pinsir's role in the form of Mega-Scizor. Mega-Scizor can serve as an off-tank due to its shear base stats and access to Roost which prolongs its survive-ability and cover the role Mega-Pinsir previously had. Having the option to absorb hits or sweep depending on the situation fits the Balance philosophy. Concluding, Mega-Scizor gives more flexibility to adapt to the opponent. The nerf to Mega-Pinsir's ability and the limited amount of times it can switch in due to the presence of Stealth Rock was something I took into account when deciding on this change.
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III. In-Depth Analysis
In this section of the RMT each member of ''Sandstorm Equilibrium'' is examined. Included are the reasons for why the certain Pokemon was selected along with an in-depth analysis on its EV spreads and Move-sets. The accomplishments of the team throughout the year lies not only in the team's flexibility but also in each Pokemon separately. The team roster never had a need to change and with just a few key tweaks depending on the current state of the meta-game would rise to the top consistently. ''Sandstorm Equilibrium'' is a team that strongly represents the Balance Archetype of Sun/Moon OU and with an in-depth look in the team's tweaks/changes one can follow the meta-game’s evolution from a Balance player’s perspective. Without further ado I present to you THE TEAM.
In this section of the RMT each member of ''Sandstorm Equilibrium'' is examined. Included are the reasons for why the certain Pokemon was selected along with an in-depth analysis on its EV spreads and Move-sets. The accomplishments of the team throughout the year lies not only in the team's flexibility but also in each Pokemon separately. The team roster never had a need to change and with just a few key tweaks depending on the current state of the meta-game would rise to the top consistently. ''Sandstorm Equilibrium'' is a team that strongly represents the Balance Archetype of Sun/Moon OU and with an in-depth look in the team's tweaks/changes one can follow the meta-game’s evolution from a Balance player’s perspective. Without further ado I present to you THE TEAM.
- Red-07 / Shinta
Roles: Knock Off, Off-tank, Revenge Killer, Set-up Sweeper
Mega-Scizor is the main win condition in most scenarios. If the opponent’s Pokemon are chipped enough and Mega-Scizor can set-up a Swords Dance he can clean the game. Mega-Scizor's role for this team is perhaps quite different than what he is commonly used for. Instead of packing the very common U-turn, here, momentum is sacrificed to maximize sweeping potential. With 252EV investment in Attack it achieves the maximum damage output possible. It's Base bulk, coupled with HP EV’s allows Mega-Scizor to absorb well resisted hits, Roost them off and even set-up.
Mega-Scizor equipped with the move Knock Off is ‘’Sandstorm Equilibrium’s’’ Signature. Although Knock Off on Scizor has been heard of before, no other team revolved around this set to such a degree or utilized it to its maximum potential. The move permits Scizor to maintain its set-up, rid items, check for Z-move holders and helps Scizor deal with or chip many of its counters, allowing for late game sweeps. 16 Speed EV's are invested to out-speed neutral natured Marowak-Alola. Below are a few crucial calculations that signify the importance of Knock Off for this team.
+4 252+ Atk Scizor-Mega Knock Off (97.5 BP) vs.
248 HP / 252+ Def Mantine: 348-410 (93.2 - 109.9%) -- 62.5% chance to OHKO
+2 252+ Atk Scizor-Mega Knock Off (97.5 BP) vs.
252 HP / 0 Def Pelipper: 258-304 (79.6 - 93.8%) -- guaranteed OHKO after Stealth Rock
0 HP / 0 Def Tapu Lele: 327-385 (116.3 - 137%)
248 HP / 252+ Def Mew: 372-438 (92.3 - 108.6%)
252+ Atk Scizor-Mega Knock Off (97.5 BP) vs.
248 HP / 0 Def Heatran: 123-145 (31.9 - 37.6%)
252 HP / 132+ Def Celesteela: 102-120 (25.6 - 30.1%)
0 HP / 0 Def Marowak-Alola: 238-282 (91.1 - 108%)
0 HP / 0 Def Tapu Lele: 164-193 (58.3 - 68.6%)
248 HP / 252+ Def Mantine: 348-410 (93.2 - 109.9%) -- 62.5% chance to OHKO
+2 252+ Atk Scizor-Mega Knock Off (97.5 BP) vs.
252 HP / 0 Def Pelipper: 258-304 (79.6 - 93.8%) -- guaranteed OHKO after Stealth Rock
0 HP / 0 Def Tapu Lele: 327-385 (116.3 - 137%)
248 HP / 252+ Def Mew: 372-438 (92.3 - 108.6%)
252+ Atk Scizor-Mega Knock Off (97.5 BP) vs.
248 HP / 0 Def Heatran: 123-145 (31.9 - 37.6%)
252 HP / 132+ Def Celesteela: 102-120 (25.6 - 30.1%)
0 HP / 0 Def Marowak-Alola: 238-282 (91.1 - 108%)
0 HP / 0 Def Tapu Lele: 164-193 (58.3 - 68.6%)
- Godzilla / One4All
Roles: Burst Damage, Pursuit Trapper, Stall-Breaker, Weather Control
Tyranitar's primary objective is to generate holes/dents in the opposing team every time it attacks. Sand Stream Ability damage can be crucial in picking up kills in the later stages of the game. Pursuit trapping pins down threats that need to be immediately dealt with. Ice punch threatens incoming Landorous-T, Garchomp, Zygarde. Crunch is the most spammable Stall-breaking move as it has chances of lowering the opposing Pokemon's Physical Defence. Stone Edge is great in situations where the risk of missing is low and the reward high, tearing down Pokemon like Clefable, Mantine, Zapdos. The specific spread has 252EV's on both HP and ATT, maximizing damage and bulk. Most Choice Band Tyranitar sets run partial or maximum investment in Speed to outrun some common defensive Pokemon like Skarmory. However, even if Tyranitar is out-sped, it usually breaks through as the opposing tank cannot withstand Crunch Spam. In the case of being locked into Stone Edge, however, out-speeding Pokemon like Mantine, Skarmory is important. The team has been successful and with no notable issues rising from the above spread. Moreover, Tyranitar on many occasions has survived hits with a sliver of health due to its investment in HP and revenge killed, securing victory. In a Stall oriented meta-game some Speed investment is beneficial.
252+ Atk Choice Band Tyranitar Ice Punch vs.
4 HP / 0 Def Zygarde: 468-552 (130.7 - 154.1%)
4 HP / 0 Def Garchomp-Mega: 492-580 (137.4 - 162%)
-1 Atk Ice Punch vs. 0 HP / 4 Def Landorus-Therian: 400-472 (125.3 - 147.9%)
252+ Atk Choice Band Tyranitar Crunch vs.
240 HP / 156 Def Mew: 378-446 (94.2 - 111.2%)
0 HP / 4 Def Celesteela: 214-253 (63.8 - 75.5%)
248 HP / 252+ Def Skarmory: 126-148 (37.8 - 44.4%)
252 HP / 192+ Def Toxapex: 123-145 (40.4 - 47.6%)
248 HP / 252+ Def Eviolite Chansey: 292-345 (41.5 - 49%)
252+ Atk Choice Band Tyranitar Stone Edge vs.
252 HP / 252+ Def Clefable: 241-285 (61.1 - 72.3%)
252 HP / 132+ Def Celesteela: 216-255 (54.2 - 64%)
248 HP / 252+ Def Skarmory: 156-184 (46.8 - 55.2%)
252 HP / 192+ Def Toxapex: 153-181 (50.3 - 59.5%)
248 HP / 252+ Def Eviolite Chansey: 364-430 (51.7 - 61.1%)
252+ Atk Choice Band Tyranitar Pursuit vs.
0 HP / 0 Def Tapu Lele: 141-166 (50.1 - 59%)
0 HP / 0 Def Tapu Koko: 63-75 (22.4 - 26.6%)
0 HP / 0 Def Latios-Mega: 218-260 (72.4 - 86.3%)
4 HP / 0 Def Zygarde: 468-552 (130.7 - 154.1%)
4 HP / 0 Def Garchomp-Mega: 492-580 (137.4 - 162%)
-1 Atk Ice Punch vs. 0 HP / 4 Def Landorus-Therian: 400-472 (125.3 - 147.9%)
252+ Atk Choice Band Tyranitar Crunch vs.
240 HP / 156 Def Mew: 378-446 (94.2 - 111.2%)
0 HP / 4 Def Celesteela: 214-253 (63.8 - 75.5%)
248 HP / 252+ Def Skarmory: 126-148 (37.8 - 44.4%)
252 HP / 192+ Def Toxapex: 123-145 (40.4 - 47.6%)
248 HP / 252+ Def Eviolite Chansey: 292-345 (41.5 - 49%)
252+ Atk Choice Band Tyranitar Stone Edge vs.
252 HP / 252+ Def Clefable: 241-285 (61.1 - 72.3%)
252 HP / 132+ Def Celesteela: 216-255 (54.2 - 64%)
248 HP / 252+ Def Skarmory: 156-184 (46.8 - 55.2%)
252 HP / 192+ Def Toxapex: 153-181 (50.3 - 59.5%)
248 HP / 252+ Def Eviolite Chansey: 364-430 (51.7 - 61.1%)
252+ Atk Choice Band Tyranitar Pursuit vs.
0 HP / 0 Def Tapu Lele: 141-166 (50.1 - 59%)
0 HP / 0 Def Tapu Koko: 63-75 (22.4 - 26.6%)
0 HP / 0 Def Latios-Mega: 218-260 (72.4 - 86.3%)
- Zeus / Naegi
Roles: Tank, Pivot, Chip, Status Spreader
Zapdos's great typing and natural bulk make it a great addition to the team for mid-ground plays and pivots. HP Ice makes Zapdos very threatening to some of the most common Pokemon in the meta-game like Landorous-T and Zygarde 50%.
Version 1 - Zeus: Zeus takes a more Special Defensive role allowing for a more offensive Heatran set (Alchemist). The Pressure Ability assists in predicting the opponent's spreads and speed tiers while also being very valuable vs the stall match-up.
Version 2 - Naegi: In Version 2 and 2.5 of the team Zapdos takes a Physical Defensive role while Heatran (Edward/Alphonse) balances out the team with some investment in Special Defence. Static Ability is chosen over Pressure giving Zapdos a greater chance to cripple HO teams. Pressure Ability is not required here as the changes in Heatran and Tapu-Fini equip them with stall-breaking capabilities.
Zapdos's great typing and natural bulk make it a great addition to the team for mid-ground plays and pivots. HP Ice makes Zapdos very threatening to some of the most common Pokemon in the meta-game like Landorous-T and Zygarde 50%.
Version 1 - Zeus: Zeus takes a more Special Defensive role allowing for a more offensive Heatran set (Alchemist). The Pressure Ability assists in predicting the opponent's spreads and speed tiers while also being very valuable vs the stall match-up.
Version 2 - Naegi: In Version 2 and 2.5 of the team Zapdos takes a Physical Defensive role while Heatran (Edward/Alphonse) balances out the team with some investment in Special Defence. Static Ability is chosen over Pressure giving Zapdos a greater chance to cripple HO teams. Pressure Ability is not required here as the changes in Heatran and Tapu-Fini equip them with stall-breaking capabilities.
Version 1 - Zeus:
252 SpA Life Orb Greninja Hydro Pump: 179-212 (46.7 - 55.3%) -- 16% chance to 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
252 SpA Keldeo Hydro Pump: 162-192 (42.2 - 50.1%)
252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Koko Volt Switch in Electric Terrain: 165-195 (43 - 50.9%)
+2 252+ Atk Aerilate Pinsir-Mega Return: 266-313 (69.4 - 81.7%)
Version 2 - Naegi:
252 Atk Lopunny-Mega Ice Punch: 146-174 (38.1 - 45.4%)
+2 252 Atk Kartana Leaf Blade: 163-192 (42.5 - 50.1%)
+2 252+ Atk Landorus-Therian Supersonic Skystrike (175 BP): 293-345 (76.5 - 90%)
252 Atk Pure Power Medicham-Mega High Jump Kick: 153-180 (39.9 - 46.9%)
252+ Atk Tapu Bulu Wood Hammer in Grassy Terrain: 140-165 (36.5 - 43%)
252 SpA Life Orb Greninja Hydro Pump: 179-212 (46.7 - 55.3%) -- 16% chance to 2HKO after Leftovers recovery
252 SpA Keldeo Hydro Pump: 162-192 (42.2 - 50.1%)
252 SpA Life Orb Tapu Koko Volt Switch in Electric Terrain: 165-195 (43 - 50.9%)
+2 252+ Atk Aerilate Pinsir-Mega Return: 266-313 (69.4 - 81.7%)
Version 2 - Naegi:
252 Atk Lopunny-Mega Ice Punch: 146-174 (38.1 - 45.4%)
+2 252 Atk Kartana Leaf Blade: 163-192 (42.5 - 50.1%)
+2 252+ Atk Landorus-Therian Supersonic Skystrike (175 BP): 293-345 (76.5 - 90%)
252 Atk Pure Power Medicham-Mega High Jump Kick: 153-180 (39.9 - 46.9%)
252+ Atk Tapu Bulu Wood Hammer in Grassy Terrain: 140-165 (36.5 - 43%)
- Alchemist / Edward / Alphonse
Roles: Stealth Rock Setter, Off-tank, Magma Storm Trapper, Semi Stall-Breaker
Heatran went through the most variations in ''Sandstorm Equilibrium's'' evolution throughout the meta-game. Its reliability, however, in setting up Stealth Rock was never hindered, one of the main reasons that the team roster never had the need to change. Initially used as an offensive sweeper and trapper and later given a more defensive role, Heatran's versatility allowed ‘’Sandstorm Equilibrium’’ to fine-tune itself each time with the changes in the meta-game.
Version 1 - Alchemist: In the early stages of S/M OU the Magma Storm + Bloom Doom Heatran set packed the ultimate surprise factor. Bloom Doom could trap and severely damage/kill the common Tapu-Fini. Furthermore, Bloom Doom could instead be fired off immediately without Magma Storm trapping in an attempt to catch a water type switch-in like Greninja,Keldeo and Manaphy. This set became very popular and soon lost the magnitude of its surprise factor. Nevertheless, Bloom Doom Heatran is a force to be reckoned with.
Version 2- Edward: While Arena Trap Dugtrio was roaming in the OU meta-game, Edward was the best Heatran set answer to weaken Dugtrio or place Stealth Rock. Toxic was particularly useful in chipping Mega-Charizard X and stalling out Clefable. Lava Plume was preferred over Magma Storm for its accuracy, securing chip damage and threatening burn status on the likes of Zygarde 50%. Finally, Lava Plume's pp would help in pp wars against stall archetypes.
Version 3 - Alphonse: After the Arena Trap Ban a more optimal set became available for Heatran. Alphonse carries Earth Power and Taunt which with the combination of Magma Storm can defeat Pokemon like Toxapex. The new set can generally create more dents which the rest of the team appreciates. Alphonse can be considered as an ''in-between'' version of Alchemist and Edward, having a defensive and offensive presence.
Heatran went through the most variations in ''Sandstorm Equilibrium's'' evolution throughout the meta-game. Its reliability, however, in setting up Stealth Rock was never hindered, one of the main reasons that the team roster never had the need to change. Initially used as an offensive sweeper and trapper and later given a more defensive role, Heatran's versatility allowed ‘’Sandstorm Equilibrium’’ to fine-tune itself each time with the changes in the meta-game.
Version 1 - Alchemist: In the early stages of S/M OU the Magma Storm + Bloom Doom Heatran set packed the ultimate surprise factor. Bloom Doom could trap and severely damage/kill the common Tapu-Fini. Furthermore, Bloom Doom could instead be fired off immediately without Magma Storm trapping in an attempt to catch a water type switch-in like Greninja,Keldeo and Manaphy. This set became very popular and soon lost the magnitude of its surprise factor. Nevertheless, Bloom Doom Heatran is a force to be reckoned with.
Version 2- Edward: While Arena Trap Dugtrio was roaming in the OU meta-game, Edward was the best Heatran set answer to weaken Dugtrio or place Stealth Rock. Toxic was particularly useful in chipping Mega-Charizard X and stalling out Clefable. Lava Plume was preferred over Magma Storm for its accuracy, securing chip damage and threatening burn status on the likes of Zygarde 50%. Finally, Lava Plume's pp would help in pp wars against stall archetypes.
Version 3 - Alphonse: After the Arena Trap Ban a more optimal set became available for Heatran. Alphonse carries Earth Power and Taunt which with the combination of Magma Storm can defeat Pokemon like Toxapex. The new set can generally create more dents which the rest of the team appreciates. Alphonse can be considered as an ''in-between'' version of Alchemist and Edward, having a defensive and offensive presence.
Version 1- Alchemist
Bloom Doom(190 BP) vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Tapu Fini: 330-390 (95.9 - 113.3%)
Bloom Doom (190 BP) vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Manaphy: 414-488 (121 - 142.6%)
Bloom Doom (190 BP) vs. 248 HP / 228 SpD Pelipper: 209-247 (64.7 - 76.4%)
Version 2 - Edward
Lava Plume vs. 0 HP / 0 SpD Dugtrio: 145-172 (72.1 - 85.5%)
Lava Plume vs. 0 HP / 0 SpD Tapu Bulu: 228-270 (81.1 - 96%)
252 SpA Magearna Focus Blast: 186-220 (48.3 - 57.1%)
252+ SpA Choice Specs Tapu Lele Psychic in Psychic Terrain: 129-153 (33.5 - 39.7%)
Version 3 - Alphonse
Earth Power vs. 252 HP / 64 SpD Toxapex: 144-170 (47.3 - 55.9%)
Magma Storm vs. 200 HP / 252+ SpD Assault Vest Magearna: 150-176 (42.7 - 50.1%)
+2 252+ Atk Huge Power Mawile-Mega Sucker Punch: 274-323 (79.4 - 93.6%)
Bloom Doom(190 BP) vs. 252 HP / 0 SpD Tapu Fini: 330-390 (95.9 - 113.3%)
Bloom Doom (190 BP) vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Manaphy: 414-488 (121 - 142.6%)
Bloom Doom (190 BP) vs. 248 HP / 228 SpD Pelipper: 209-247 (64.7 - 76.4%)
Version 2 - Edward
Lava Plume vs. 0 HP / 0 SpD Dugtrio: 145-172 (72.1 - 85.5%)
Lava Plume vs. 0 HP / 0 SpD Tapu Bulu: 228-270 (81.1 - 96%)
252 SpA Magearna Focus Blast: 186-220 (48.3 - 57.1%)
252+ SpA Choice Specs Tapu Lele Psychic in Psychic Terrain: 129-153 (33.5 - 39.7%)
Version 3 - Alphonse
Earth Power vs. 252 HP / 64 SpD Toxapex: 144-170 (47.3 - 55.9%)
Magma Storm vs. 200 HP / 252+ SpD Assault Vest Magearna: 150-176 (42.7 - 50.1%)
+2 252+ Atk Huge Power Mawile-Mega Sucker Punch: 274-323 (79.4 - 93.6%)
- Ariel / Nami
Roles: Utility, Pivot, Chip, Stall-Breaker
Tapu-Fini brings the Utility with access to moves such as Haze, Defog and assists in unleashing the full potential of the team with its Misty Terrain. When active, the terrain makes Scizor, Tyranitar and Zygarde an unstoppable force allowing them to switch in without the fear of being crippled by status moves. Even though Tapu-Fini has occasionally sat in the middle of the SM OU Ranking Tiers, it has always shined and dominated through ''Sandstorm Equilibrium''.
Version 1 - Ariel: Due to the highly offensive nature of the early Gen7OU with threats like Pheromosa and Mega-Metagross Tapu-Fini needed as much bulk as possible. Ariel served as the tank of the team to slow down or check the Hyper Offense archetype. The bulky Tapu-Fini set was what I considered the ''safest'' option for the unexplored meta-game at the time.
Version 2 - Nami: After a brief hiatus due to my studies, I came back to the competitive scene and quickly observed that Ariel was not performing as well as before. By changing Tapu-Fini from Ariel to Nami the team skyrocketed to the top of the ladder rankings again. Since then, Nami has become the staple Tapu-Fini version of the team. Throughout Sun/Moon only on rare occasions would Version 1 be preferable to Version 2. By sacrificing bulk, dropping Haze and Surf Tapu-Fini now out speeds threats like Zygarde 50% and breaks defensive cores with the combination of Nature's Madness and Taunt. 252EV’s in HP give Tapu-Fini maximum leftover recovery. The loss in Tapu-Fini's bulk is balanced out with the changes to Heatran and Zadpos.
Tapu-Fini brings the Utility with access to moves such as Haze, Defog and assists in unleashing the full potential of the team with its Misty Terrain. When active, the terrain makes Scizor, Tyranitar and Zygarde an unstoppable force allowing them to switch in without the fear of being crippled by status moves. Even though Tapu-Fini has occasionally sat in the middle of the SM OU Ranking Tiers, it has always shined and dominated through ''Sandstorm Equilibrium''.
Version 1 - Ariel: Due to the highly offensive nature of the early Gen7OU with threats like Pheromosa and Mega-Metagross Tapu-Fini needed as much bulk as possible. Ariel served as the tank of the team to slow down or check the Hyper Offense archetype. The bulky Tapu-Fini set was what I considered the ''safest'' option for the unexplored meta-game at the time.
Version 2 - Nami: After a brief hiatus due to my studies, I came back to the competitive scene and quickly observed that Ariel was not performing as well as before. By changing Tapu-Fini from Ariel to Nami the team skyrocketed to the top of the ladder rankings again. Since then, Nami has become the staple Tapu-Fini version of the team. Throughout Sun/Moon only on rare occasions would Version 1 be preferable to Version 2. By sacrificing bulk, dropping Haze and Surf Tapu-Fini now out speeds threats like Zygarde 50% and breaks defensive cores with the combination of Nature's Madness and Taunt. 252EV’s in HP give Tapu-Fini maximum leftover recovery. The loss in Tapu-Fini's bulk is balanced out with the changes to Heatran and Zadpos.
Version 1 - Ariel
252 Atk Tough Claws Metagross-Mega Meteor Mash: 156-184 (45.4 - 53.6%)
252 Atk Pheromosa Poison Jab: 136-162 (39.6 - 47.2%)
252+ Atk Choice Band Zygarde Thousand Arrows: 153-180 (44.6 - 52.4%)
252 SpA Volcarona Giga Drain: 124-146 (36.1 - 42.5%)
Version 2 – Nami
Moonblast vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Zygarde: 204-242 (56.9 - 67.5%)
Moonblast vs. 252 HP / 24 SpD Landorus-Therian: 115-136 (30.1 - 35.6%)
Moonblast vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Heracross-Mega: 188-224 (62.2 - 74.1%)
252 Atk Tough Claws Metagross-Mega Meteor Mash: 156-184 (45.4 - 53.6%)
252 Atk Pheromosa Poison Jab: 136-162 (39.6 - 47.2%)
252+ Atk Choice Band Zygarde Thousand Arrows: 153-180 (44.6 - 52.4%)
252 SpA Volcarona Giga Drain: 124-146 (36.1 - 42.5%)
Version 2 – Nami
Moonblast vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Zygarde: 204-242 (56.9 - 67.5%)
Moonblast vs. 252 HP / 24 SpD Landorus-Therian: 115-136 (30.1 - 35.6%)
Moonblast vs. 4 HP / 0 SpD Heracross-Mega: 188-224 (62.2 - 74.1%)
- God / Lagann
Roles: Revenge Killer, Set-up Sweeper
Zygarde’s immunity to Electric Moves and access to Thousand Arrows gives the team the final tools to ‘’Pierce the Heavens’’.
Version 1 – God: The set includes Adamant Nature 252EV Attack for maximum damage output, enough HP to prevent Seismic Toss from breaking Substitute and minimizing hazard/status damage. The Sub/Coil set is typically used to set up on bulky tanks or walls carrying status moves and for gathering information.
‘’Sandstorm Equilibrium’’ abused the Sub/Coil Zygarde set from the very beginning of gen7pokebankou and witnessed its huge rise in popularity just a few months in Gen7OU. The set proved to be game changing for the meta-game. Trainers quickly adjusted by recruiting Clefable to their roster or equipping their Landorus-T and Tangrowth with Hidden Power [Ice]. As the meta-game shifted Choice Band Zygarde became the new favoured set. For ‘’Sandstorm Equilibrium’’ however, having a second Choice item on the team was inefficient and dropping the Choice Band on Tyranitar was out of question. Zygarde needed to be tweaked in a different manner. After experimenting with Earth Plate, Steelium Z and Dragonium Z and adjusting the roster analogously each time I finalized Version 2 of the team.
Version 2 – Lagann: Lagann gives the team speed with its 252EV investment and access to Dragon Dance. It serves as the second primary sweeper alongside Mega-Scizor. Heatran taking a more Defensive role in Version 2 permits Zygarde to become the Z crystal holder. In the current meta-game Dragonium Z is chosen over Steelium Z as it gives the team better overall coverage hitting Tangrowth, Quagsire, Mantine and Zapdos among others.
There are many common meta-game Pokemon that pose as threats to the team. Above are sprites of the ones I believe to be most significant. With a proper team preview analysis and a development of the analogous play-style for the specific match-up, no game is an auto-loss and there are routes one can take to come out victorious. Sometimes the team may have to play the aggressive game, trading a specific member to take out an immediate threat. The choice for the optimal member to be traded each time is crucial. There are match-ups where one must use only specific members of the roster up to a certain point of the battle solely to prevent the potential set-up of a threat that can sweep the entire team. One can opt instead to fight fire with fire, setting up with Scizor or Zygarde before the opponent does. It all comes down to experience with the team, learning match-ups and being able to dissect the opposing team's strategy from team preview.
Match-up strategies and replays against the most common archetypes seen throughout the Sun/Moon OU meta-game are presented in this section. There are numerous teams that cannot be categorized directly under a specific archetype but may behave similarly or incorporate the same philosophy to a certain extent.
Hyper Offense:
Very threatening match-up for all balance teams. It is important that trades are made optimally to maintain a relevant control of the game and not allow the opposing team to snowball. ‘’Sandstorm Equilibrium’’ can sweep or reverse-sweep if it manages to get a set-up. Furthermore, Version 2 - Naegi can turn the game to an instant win if it inflicts paralysis status even once.
Balance:
The team has had success against most Balance vs Balance match-ups. It comes down to player skill, experience and predictions. In these battles, a good strategy is to gauge the opponent’s team and find an ‘’in balance’’ which ‘’Sandstorm Equilibrium’’ can exploit. Balance teams can be slightly more defensively or offensively oriented. Realizing this ‘’in balance’’ can shed light to the path that leads to victory.
Stall:
Version 1 of the team would often lead to prolonged games with approximately a 50/50 match-up against stall. Version 2 and 2.5 has a favourable match-up against stall and semi-stall variants. This is where Tapu-Fini's Misty Terrain Ability shines the most. The timing on Misty Terrain Turns and switches is of outmost importance.
Trick Room:
The team has a favourable match-up against Trick Room. Being a naturally bulky team, ''Sandstorm Equilibrium'' in many circumstances can out-trade even when Trick Room is active. Tapu-Fini puts in work by Taunting Trick Room users and Tyranitar’s Sand Stream Ability limits Cresselia’s survive-ability.
Veil:
Initially, Veil seemed like an unfavourable match-up due to the presence of Manaphy and/or Tyranitar in the archetype. However, with experience, routes were found to reverse sweep veil teams by utilizing Tyranitar's Ability, Scizor and Zygarde. It is all about taking initiative and showing dominance in the early game.
Rain:
This match-up is similar with the Hyper Offense one. Often a win condition is an early Scizor set-up. If Kingdra is chipped enough Mega Scizor can KO almost anything with either Knock Off or Bullet Punch. Tyranitar is available to battle for weather control and disrupt the archetype’s strategy.
Webs:
Tapu-Fini's Utility takes care of the opposing hazards or can straight up prevent them with Taunt. Defog should be used with caution as Serperior and Bisharp can become huge threats. Occasionally, where seen fit, a viable strategy is to ignore the hazards completely and focus on inflicting damage. Sticky Webs do not hinder ‘’Sandstorm Equilibrium’’ much anyway.
V. Importable for Pokemon Showdown
Version 1.0: Peaked Feb/March 2017
Version 2.0: Peaked June/July 2017
Version 2.5: Peaked September/October 2017
Zygarde’s immunity to Electric Moves and access to Thousand Arrows gives the team the final tools to ‘’Pierce the Heavens’’.
Version 1 – God: The set includes Adamant Nature 252EV Attack for maximum damage output, enough HP to prevent Seismic Toss from breaking Substitute and minimizing hazard/status damage. The Sub/Coil set is typically used to set up on bulky tanks or walls carrying status moves and for gathering information.
‘’Sandstorm Equilibrium’’ abused the Sub/Coil Zygarde set from the very beginning of gen7pokebankou and witnessed its huge rise in popularity just a few months in Gen7OU. The set proved to be game changing for the meta-game. Trainers quickly adjusted by recruiting Clefable to their roster or equipping their Landorus-T and Tangrowth with Hidden Power [Ice]. As the meta-game shifted Choice Band Zygarde became the new favoured set. For ‘’Sandstorm Equilibrium’’ however, having a second Choice item on the team was inefficient and dropping the Choice Band on Tyranitar was out of question. Zygarde needed to be tweaked in a different manner. After experimenting with Earth Plate, Steelium Z and Dragonium Z and adjusting the roster analogously each time I finalized Version 2 of the team.
Version 2 – Lagann: Lagann gives the team speed with its 252EV investment and access to Dragon Dance. It serves as the second primary sweeper alongside Mega-Scizor. Heatran taking a more Defensive role in Version 2 permits Zygarde to become the Z crystal holder. In the current meta-game Dragonium Z is chosen over Steelium Z as it gives the team better overall coverage hitting Tangrowth, Quagsire, Mantine and Zapdos among others.
Version 1 - God
252 Atk Tapu Bulu Wood Hammer in Grassy Terrain vs +3 coil: 102-121 (25.1 - 29.8%)
252 Atk Tough Claws Metagross-Mega Meteor Mash: 177-208 (43.7 - 51.3%)
252 SpA Choice Specs Tapu Koko Hidden Power Ice: 332-392 (81.9 - 96.7%)
Version 2 – Lagann
-1 Devastating Drake (190 BP) vs. 252 HP / 216+ Def Landorus-Therian: 151-178 (39.5 - 46.5%)
Devastating Drake (190 BP) vs. 248 HP / 136 Def Mantine: 319-376 (85.5 - 100.8%)
Devastating Drake (190 BP) vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Quagsire: 228-268 (57.8 - 68%)
+1 Devastating Drake (190 BP) vs. 248 HP / 212+ Def Tangrowth: 271-319 (67.2 - 79.1%)
+1 Devastating Drake (190 BP) vs. 252 HP / 28 Def Tangrowth: 342-403 (84.6 - 99.7%)
252 Atk Tapu Bulu Wood Hammer in Grassy Terrain vs +3 coil: 102-121 (25.1 - 29.8%)
252 Atk Tough Claws Metagross-Mega Meteor Mash: 177-208 (43.7 - 51.3%)
252 SpA Choice Specs Tapu Koko Hidden Power Ice: 332-392 (81.9 - 96.7%)
Version 2 – Lagann
-1 Devastating Drake (190 BP) vs. 252 HP / 216+ Def Landorus-Therian: 151-178 (39.5 - 46.5%)
Devastating Drake (190 BP) vs. 248 HP / 136 Def Mantine: 319-376 (85.5 - 100.8%)
Devastating Drake (190 BP) vs. 252 HP / 252+ Def Quagsire: 228-268 (57.8 - 68%)
+1 Devastating Drake (190 BP) vs. 248 HP / 212+ Def Tangrowth: 271-319 (67.2 - 79.1%)
+1 Devastating Drake (190 BP) vs. 252 HP / 28 Def Tangrowth: 342-403 (84.6 - 99.7%)
========================= + =========================
IV. Threat List & Match-ups
There are many common meta-game Pokemon that pose as threats to the team. Above are sprites of the ones I believe to be most significant. With a proper team preview analysis and a development of the analogous play-style for the specific match-up, no game is an auto-loss and there are routes one can take to come out victorious. Sometimes the team may have to play the aggressive game, trading a specific member to take out an immediate threat. The choice for the optimal member to be traded each time is crucial. There are match-ups where one must use only specific members of the roster up to a certain point of the battle solely to prevent the potential set-up of a threat that can sweep the entire team. One can opt instead to fight fire with fire, setting up with Scizor or Zygarde before the opponent does. It all comes down to experience with the team, learning match-ups and being able to dissect the opposing team's strategy from team preview.
Archetype Match-ups
Match-up strategies and replays against the most common archetypes seen throughout the Sun/Moon OU meta-game are presented in this section. There are numerous teams that cannot be categorized directly under a specific archetype but may behave similarly or incorporate the same philosophy to a certain extent.
Hyper Offense:
Very threatening match-up for all balance teams. It is important that trades are made optimally to maintain a relevant control of the game and not allow the opposing team to snowball. ‘’Sandstorm Equilibrium’’ can sweep or reverse-sweep if it manages to get a set-up. Furthermore, Version 2 - Naegi can turn the game to an instant win if it inflicts paralysis status even once.
1 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-539319290 : vs Jihadijynx
2 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-541706149 : vs SC Empo
3 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-607284554 : vs Wheitron
4 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-610329930 : vs gayhua
5 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-613570929 : vs LT41X kickasser
2 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-541706149 : vs SC Empo
3 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-607284554 : vs Wheitron
4 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-610329930 : vs gayhua
5 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-613570929 : vs LT41X kickasser
Balance:
The team has had success against most Balance vs Balance match-ups. It comes down to player skill, experience and predictions. In these battles, a good strategy is to gauge the opponent’s team and find an ‘’in balance’’ which ‘’Sandstorm Equilibrium’’ can exploit. Balance teams can be slightly more defensively or offensively oriented. Realizing this ‘’in balance’’ can shed light to the path that leads to victory.
1 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-541703784 : vs Craing
2 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-561320848 : vs Superphone
3 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-614202060 : vs LT41A CaronSmith
4 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-614075230 : vs LT41A Curry
5 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-639308673 : vs Mandingod
6 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-644007547 : vs baboboy
2 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-561320848 : vs Superphone
3 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-614202060 : vs LT41A CaronSmith
4 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-614075230 : vs LT41A Curry
5 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-639308673 : vs Mandingod
6 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-644007547 : vs baboboy
Stall:
Version 1 of the team would often lead to prolonged games with approximately a 50/50 match-up against stall. Version 2 and 2.5 has a favourable match-up against stall and semi-stall variants. This is where Tapu-Fini's Misty Terrain Ability shines the most. The timing on Misty Terrain Turns and switches is of outmost importance.
1 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7pokebankou-501673329 : vs Pokefreak77
2 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-562044250 : vs Reyscarface
3 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-563451104 : vs ekanen
4 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-613915677 : vs Stall is coming
5 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-637602274 : vs Fantastic_fuego
2 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-562044250 : vs Reyscarface
3 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-563451104 : vs ekanen
4 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-613915677 : vs Stall is coming
5 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-637602274 : vs Fantastic_fuego
Trick Room:
The team has a favourable match-up against Trick Room. Being a naturally bulky team, ''Sandstorm Equilibrium'' in many circumstances can out-trade even when Trick Room is active. Tapu-Fini puts in work by Taunting Trick Room users and Tyranitar’s Sand Stream Ability limits Cresselia’s survive-ability.
1 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-608980994 : vs Shallowduan
2 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-609583326 : vs JeoffreyH
3 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-612600684 : vs Metanite1
4 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-614059940 : vs lt41a Nihilego
5 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-613917483 : vs lt41a tricking
2 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-609583326 : vs JeoffreyH
3 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-612600684 : vs Metanite1
4 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-614059940 : vs lt41a Nihilego
5 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-613917483 : vs lt41a tricking
Veil:
Initially, Veil seemed like an unfavourable match-up due to the presence of Manaphy and/or Tyranitar in the archetype. However, with experience, routes were found to reverse sweep veil teams by utilizing Tyranitar's Ability, Scizor and Zygarde. It is all about taking initiative and showing dominance in the early game.
1 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-609430847 : vs Seal and Sorry
2 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-609631192 : vs German111
3 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-612559640 : vs NinNoah
4 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-613435394 : vs lt41c sorry
5 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-614323017 : vs LT41B Hayburner
2 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-609631192 : vs German111
3 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-612559640 : vs NinNoah
4 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-613435394 : vs lt41c sorry
5 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-614323017 : vs LT41B Hayburner
Rain:
This match-up is similar with the Hyper Offense one. Often a win condition is an early Scizor set-up. If Kingdra is chipped enough Mega Scizor can KO almost anything with either Knock Off or Bullet Punch. Tyranitar is available to battle for weather control and disrupt the archetype’s strategy.
1 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-608976236 : vs Let's Bulu
2 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-636746561 : vs Dragni08
3 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-636746561 : vs DLT COCK
4 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-637515380 : vs Charles Steelixens
5 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-645592333 : vs Michy47
2 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-636746561 : vs Dragni08
3 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-636746561 : vs DLT COCK
4 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-637515380 : vs Charles Steelixens
5 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-645592333 : vs Michy47
Webs:
Tapu-Fini's Utility takes care of the opposing hazards or can straight up prevent them with Taunt. Defog should be used with caution as Serperior and Bisharp can become huge threats. Occasionally, where seen fit, a viable strategy is to ignore the hazards completely and focus on inflicting damage. Sticky Webs do not hinder ‘’Sandstorm Equilibrium’’ much anyway.
1 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-564016900 : vs Ox the Fox
2 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-561301202 : vs Updated Kanto
3 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-614489233 : vs LT41I Thunder631
4 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-621221020 : vs LT43B Hy
5 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-638296066 : vs Ciel est le futur
2 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-561301202 : vs Updated Kanto
3 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-614489233 : vs LT41I Thunder631
4 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-621221020 : vs LT43B Hy
5 - http://replay.pokemonshowdown.com/gen7ou-638296066 : vs Ciel est le futur
========================= + =========================
V. Importable for Pokemon Showdown
Version 1.0: Peaked Feb/March 2017
Red-07 (Scizor) (M) @ Scizorite
Ability: Technician
EVs: 242 HP / 252 Atk / 16 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Bullet Punch
- Knock Off
- Roost
- Swords Dance
God (Zygarde) @ Leftovers
Ability: Aura Break
EVs: 192 HP / 252 Atk / 8 SpD / 56 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Substitute
- Coil
- Thousand Arrows
- Extreme Speed
Godzilla (Tyranitar) (M) @ Choice Band
Ability: Sand Stream
Shiny: Yes
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 4 SpD
Adamant Nature
- Pursuit
- Stone Edge
- Ice Punch
- Crunch
Ariel (Tapu Fini) @ Leftovers
Ability: Misty Surge
EVs: 28 HP / 192 Def / 4 SpA / 12 SpD / 52 Spe
Calm Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Defog
- Haze
- Moonblast
- Surf
Zeus (Zapdos) @ Leftovers
Ability: Pressure
EVs: 248 HP / 60 Def / 4 SpA / 180 SpD / 16 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Hidden Power [Ice]
- Discharge
- Roost
- Heat Wave
Alchemist (Heatran) @ Grassium Z
Ability: Flash Fire
Shiny: Yes
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Magma Storm
- Solar Beam
- Stealth Rock
- Earth Power
Ability: Technician
EVs: 242 HP / 252 Atk / 16 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Bullet Punch
- Knock Off
- Roost
- Swords Dance
God (Zygarde) @ Leftovers
Ability: Aura Break
EVs: 192 HP / 252 Atk / 8 SpD / 56 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Substitute
- Coil
- Thousand Arrows
- Extreme Speed
Godzilla (Tyranitar) (M) @ Choice Band
Ability: Sand Stream
Shiny: Yes
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 4 SpD
Adamant Nature
- Pursuit
- Stone Edge
- Ice Punch
- Crunch
Ariel (Tapu Fini) @ Leftovers
Ability: Misty Surge
EVs: 28 HP / 192 Def / 4 SpA / 12 SpD / 52 Spe
Calm Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Defog
- Haze
- Moonblast
- Surf
Zeus (Zapdos) @ Leftovers
Ability: Pressure
EVs: 248 HP / 60 Def / 4 SpA / 180 SpD / 16 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Hidden Power [Ice]
- Discharge
- Roost
- Heat Wave
Alchemist (Heatran) @ Grassium Z
Ability: Flash Fire
Shiny: Yes
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Magma Storm
- Solar Beam
- Stealth Rock
- Earth Power
Version 2.0: Peaked June/July 2017
Lagann (Zygarde) @ Dragonium Z
Ability: Aura Break
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Dragon Dance
- Extreme Speed
- Thousand Arrows
- Outrage
Edward (Heatran) @ Leftovers
Ability: Flash Fire
EVs: 248 HP / 220 SpD / 40 Spe
Shiny: Yes
Calm Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Substitute
- Lava Plume
- Stealth Rock
- Toxic
Shinta (Scizor) @ Scizorite
Ability: Technician
EVs: 240 HP / 252 Atk / 16 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Bullet Punch
- Knock Off
- Swords Dance
- Roost
One4All (Tyranitar) @ Choice Band
Ability: Sand Stream
Shiny: Yes
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 4 SpD
Adamant Nature
- Stone Edge
- Pursuit
- Ice Punch
- Crunch
Nami (Tapu Fini) @ Leftovers
Ability: Misty Surge
EVs: 252 HP / 24 Def / 232 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Nature's Madness
- Taunt
- Defog
- Moonblast
Naegi (Zapdos) @ Leftovers
Ability: Static
EVs: 248 HP / 172 Def / 64 SpA / 24 Spe
Bold Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Discharge
- Hidden Power [Ice]
- Heat Wave
- Roost
Ability: Aura Break
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Dragon Dance
- Extreme Speed
- Thousand Arrows
- Outrage
Edward (Heatran) @ Leftovers
Ability: Flash Fire
EVs: 248 HP / 220 SpD / 40 Spe
Shiny: Yes
Calm Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Substitute
- Lava Plume
- Stealth Rock
- Toxic
Shinta (Scizor) @ Scizorite
Ability: Technician
EVs: 240 HP / 252 Atk / 16 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Bullet Punch
- Knock Off
- Swords Dance
- Roost
One4All (Tyranitar) @ Choice Band
Ability: Sand Stream
Shiny: Yes
EVs: 252 HP / 252 Atk / 4 SpD
Adamant Nature
- Stone Edge
- Pursuit
- Ice Punch
- Crunch
Nami (Tapu Fini) @ Leftovers
Ability: Misty Surge
EVs: 252 HP / 24 Def / 232 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Nature's Madness
- Taunt
- Defog
- Moonblast
Naegi (Zapdos) @ Leftovers
Ability: Static
EVs: 248 HP / 172 Def / 64 SpA / 24 Spe
Bold Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Discharge
- Hidden Power [Ice]
- Heat Wave
- Roost
Version 2.5: Peaked September/October 2017
Lagann (Zygarde) @ Dragonium Z
Ability: Aura Break
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Dragon Dance
- Extreme Speed
- Thousand Arrows
- Outrage
Alphonse (Heatran) (M) @ Leftovers
Ability: Flash Fire
Shiny: Yes
EVs: 88 HP / 164 SpA / 216 SpD / 40 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Taunt
- Magma Storm
- Stealth Rock
- Earth Power
Shinta (Scizor) (M) @ Scizorite
Ability: Technician
EVs: 240 HP / 252 Atk / 16 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Bullet Punch
- Knock Off
- Swords Dance
- Roost
One4All (Tyranitar) (M) @ Choice Band
Ability: Sand Stream
Shiny: Yes
EVs: 176 HP / 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 76 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Stone Edge
- Pursuit
- Ice Punch
- Crunch
Nami (Tapu Fini) @ Leftovers
Ability: Misty Surge
EVs: 252 HP / 24 Def / 232 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Nature's Madness
- Taunt
- Defog
- Moonblast
Naegi (Zapdos) @ Leftovers
Ability: Static
Shiny: Yes
EVs: 248 HP / 172 Def / 64 SpA / 24 Spe
Bold Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Discharge
- Hidden Power [Ice]
- Heat Wave
- Roost
Ability: Aura Break
EVs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Dragon Dance
- Extreme Speed
- Thousand Arrows
- Outrage
Alphonse (Heatran) (M) @ Leftovers
Ability: Flash Fire
Shiny: Yes
EVs: 88 HP / 164 SpA / 216 SpD / 40 Spe
Modest Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Taunt
- Magma Storm
- Stealth Rock
- Earth Power
Shinta (Scizor) (M) @ Scizorite
Ability: Technician
EVs: 240 HP / 252 Atk / 16 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Bullet Punch
- Knock Off
- Swords Dance
- Roost
One4All (Tyranitar) (M) @ Choice Band
Ability: Sand Stream
Shiny: Yes
EVs: 176 HP / 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 76 Spe
Adamant Nature
- Stone Edge
- Pursuit
- Ice Punch
- Crunch
Nami (Tapu Fini) @ Leftovers
Ability: Misty Surge
EVs: 252 HP / 24 Def / 232 Spe
Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Nature's Madness
- Taunt
- Defog
- Moonblast
Naegi (Zapdos) @ Leftovers
Ability: Static
Shiny: Yes
EVs: 248 HP / 172 Def / 64 SpA / 24 Spe
Bold Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Discharge
- Hidden Power [Ice]
- Heat Wave
- Roost
========================= + =========================
VI. Conclusion
Building and playing competitively with ‘’Sandstorm Equilibrium’’ has been a great overall experience. It has been, in my opinion, one of the very successful teams in its category, pioneering in the likes of Tapu Fini Misty Terrain and Mega-Scizor Knock Off utilization. The team displayed unfathomable adaptability to the meta-game changes. In finishing the write up of this RMT, I feel a sense of fulfilment in my OU journey. The only thing that may perhaps be missing is an official tournament appearance of the team which I could not personally find the time to invest in. For he who wishes to take a step into the Sandstorm, I tell him to be persistent, patient and he shall too pierce the heavens!
VII. Acknowledgements
Finally, I would like to thank and acknowledge the following:
1. First and foremost my younger brother Alexander for putting this team at the very pinnacle of competitive play, for constantly peaking the ladder and helping me with tweaks throughout the meta-game. The level of success of the team would not be possible if it was not for his input and dedication.
''who the hell do you think we are!?''.
2. PABSANS2 for recognizing the team and posting it on pokemonshowdownteams.com even with several mistakes on move-sets/natures/items/EV spreads:
http://pokemonshowdownteams.com/gen7ou-team-16-lycon-mega-scizor/
3. Opacity 10 who uploaded the replay of the final match of the first peak to rank 1 without me even knowing who he is. I found the video randomly on YouTube a couple of months later. Below is the link:
4. mark331 for commissioning the artwork of the team. The magnificent work can be found in the following link:
https://mark331.deviantart.com/art/Commission-In-The-Desert-674470776
I also incorporated some of his other artwork in section III of this RMT along with artwork from deviant artist endless-whispers, SonnieJaye and All0412.
5. The anime ''Full Metal Alchemist'', ''Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann'', ''Samurai X'', ''Boku no Hero Academia'', ''One Piece'' and ''Danganronpa'' for giving me inspiration for the team theme and Pokemon nicknames.
6. Lastly, Smogon and Pokemon Showdown for making my Pokemon experience an even greater one.
Building and playing competitively with ‘’Sandstorm Equilibrium’’ has been a great overall experience. It has been, in my opinion, one of the very successful teams in its category, pioneering in the likes of Tapu Fini Misty Terrain and Mega-Scizor Knock Off utilization. The team displayed unfathomable adaptability to the meta-game changes. In finishing the write up of this RMT, I feel a sense of fulfilment in my OU journey. The only thing that may perhaps be missing is an official tournament appearance of the team which I could not personally find the time to invest in. For he who wishes to take a step into the Sandstorm, I tell him to be persistent, patient and he shall too pierce the heavens!
Lycon’s the name, they tremble from the mons I tame
The god squad they call, it’s inevitable that the enemies will fall
The heavens with a thousand arrows I pierce, Lagann will devastate you’ve never seen anything as fierce
Alchemist is sent in the bout, you’re hit with a magma storm and there's no way out.
Trapped in the vortex you witness a hidden power above, it's Zeus, whose static you’ll never love
You see victory but it’s just Nami’s misty illusion for your journey has reached its conclusion
Now in Godzilla’s pursuit, best you can do is bow down and salute.
Blacked out; Shinta has knocked off your game, now run back to Nurse Joy and let the world know my name.
The god squad they call, it’s inevitable that the enemies will fall
The heavens with a thousand arrows I pierce, Lagann will devastate you’ve never seen anything as fierce
Alchemist is sent in the bout, you’re hit with a magma storm and there's no way out.
Trapped in the vortex you witness a hidden power above, it's Zeus, whose static you’ll never love
You see victory but it’s just Nami’s misty illusion for your journey has reached its conclusion
Now in Godzilla’s pursuit, best you can do is bow down and salute.
Blacked out; Shinta has knocked off your game, now run back to Nurse Joy and let the world know my name.
========================= + =========================
VII. Acknowledgements
Finally, I would like to thank and acknowledge the following:
1. First and foremost my younger brother Alexander for putting this team at the very pinnacle of competitive play, for constantly peaking the ladder and helping me with tweaks throughout the meta-game. The level of success of the team would not be possible if it was not for his input and dedication.
''who the hell do you think we are!?''.
2. PABSANS2 for recognizing the team and posting it on pokemonshowdownteams.com even with several mistakes on move-sets/natures/items/EV spreads:
http://pokemonshowdownteams.com/gen7ou-team-16-lycon-mega-scizor/
3. Opacity 10 who uploaded the replay of the final match of the first peak to rank 1 without me even knowing who he is. I found the video randomly on YouTube a couple of months later. Below is the link:
https://mark331.deviantart.com/art/Commission-In-The-Desert-674470776
I also incorporated some of his other artwork in section III of this RMT along with artwork from deviant artist endless-whispers, SonnieJaye and All0412.
5. The anime ''Full Metal Alchemist'', ''Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann'', ''Samurai X'', ''Boku no Hero Academia'', ''One Piece'' and ''Danganronpa'' for giving me inspiration for the team theme and Pokemon nicknames.
6. Lastly, Smogon and Pokemon Showdown for making my Pokemon experience an even greater one.
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