Doubles Swampert

GenOne

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[OVERVIEW]

Mega Swampert is a physical rain sweeper with high Attack, a well-rounded movepool, respectable bulk, and only one weakness. Whereas other rain sweepers like Kingdra and Ludicolo offer fast but frail stat spreads that are suitable for highly offensive teams, Mega Swampert has enough bulk and power to function well on bulkier, more balance-oriented teams that still want the speed advantages offered by a Swift Swim user. Unlike other popular rain sweepers, Mega Swampert isn't able to make use of an item to augment its power, but its base Attack stat is significantly higher to compensate. That said, as a physical attacker, Mega Swampert can quickly be shut down by Intimidate users like Mega Salamence and Scrafty. Thanks to Mega Evolution mechanics, Swampert is always guaranteed a Swift Swim Speed boost on the turn it Mega Evolves if a rain setter is switched in on that turn, making it a much more flexible and forgiving lead than other Swift Swim users. However, Mega Swampert also takes up a team's Mega slot, whereas its alternatives do not. Furthermore, while Mega Swampert's movepool offers more well-rounded coverage than Kingdra's and Ludicolo's, it still has a slight case of four move-moveslot syndrome; it really wants to run Waterfall, Earthquake, Ice Punch and Superpower on the same set but needs to give one of those moves up for Protect.

[SET]
name: Rain Attacker
move 1: Waterfall
move 2: Earthquake
move 3: Ice Punch / Superpower
move 4: Protect
item: Swampertite
ability: Damp
nature: Adamant
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Waterfall is Mega Swampert's most reliable Water-type attack as well as its hardest-hitting STAB attack overall in rain. Earthquake is a secondary STAB move that provides spread coverage, allows Mega Swampert to hit hard against bulky Water-types like Volcanion and Tapu Fini, and works well as an attack for cleaning up against weakened targets late-game. Ice Punch is used to score OHKOs on Landorus-T, Mega Salamence, and Zygarde while also providing coverage against Grass-types like Amoonguss and Tapu Bulu. Superpower offers super effective coverage against bulky targets like Ferrothorn, Snorlax, and Tyranitar. Low Kick is an option over Superpower for Fighting-type coverage that doesn't drop Mega Swampert's stats, but it is a bit weaker against Ferrothorn and other targets weighing less than 200 kg. While Earthquake is usually too good to give up, if you don't feel your team needs the Ground-type spread coverage, it is acceptable to run both Ice Punch and Superpower for better matchups against both Mega Salamence and Ferrothorn. Protect keeps Mega Swampert safe while its partners deal with any possible threats.

Set Details
========

Maximum investment in Attack and Speed allows Mega Swampert to hit as hard and fast as possible. Adamant is generally the preferred nature for maximum power. However, a Jolly nature is necessary for Mega Swampert to outspeed Choice Scarf Genesect, Choice Scarf Victini, +1 Speed Volcarona, and Tailwind-boosted Zapdos. The power drop inherent to running Jolly is noticeable, though. Neither of Swampert's pre-Mega abilities have much competitive value, but Damp has a small niche in preventing Explosion, while there is never a good reason to attack before Swampert Mega Evolves to utilize Torrent.

Usage Tips
========

Mega Swampert and its respective rain setter make for excellent leads that apply immediate offensive pressure when the opponent isn't carrying their own weather setter. When faced with weather teams, consider playing Mega Swampert more conservatively, opting to take out the opponent's weather setter first if possible; Mega Swampert becomes dead weight once Swift Swim deactivates. When leading with Mega Swampert, don't feel obligated to lead with the rain setter as well. Swampert is always guaranteed a Swift Swim Speed boost on the turn it Mega Evolves if a rain setter is switched in on that turn, so you can lead with a second offensive option and switch it out for your rain setter if you deem the Swift Swim boost desirable on that turn. While Mega Swampert is often a great lead, it is sometimes better to keep it in the back it as a late-game cleaner if you're able to clear out Mega Swampert's checks and counters beforehand. When in play, Swampert's main goal is to spam Waterfall and Earthquake to break down the opposing team. Thanks to its good bulk and great defensive typing, Mega Swampert isn't really threatened by most attackers under rain, so it can leverage its bulk and power to consistently apply offensive pressure while wearing down opposing targets. Just stay clear of any potential Grass-type attacks! The opponent will be tempted to switch in an Intimidate user like Mega Salamence or Landorus-T to drop Mega Swampert's power, so factor that into your expectations about Swampert's damage output, and try to catch Mega Salamence and Landorus-T with an Ice Punch on their switch in. If using Superpower, keep in mind that it is going to drop Swampert's Attack and Defense, potentially making it dead weight.

Team Options
========

A rain setter is a mandatory partner for teams with Mega Swampert. Pelipper has phenomenal synergy with Mega Swampert, allowing Mega Swampert to freely spam Earthquake, KOing Electric-types that threaten Pelipper like Tapu Koko. Politoed is an option over Pelipper that can provide Helping Hand support to cancel out potential Intimidate drops. It is really important to bring strong checks to Grass-types like Tapu Bulu, Amoonguss, and Ferrothorn, since bulky rain teams with Mega Swampert struggle to check these threats. Pelipper can help check Tapu Bulu and Amoonguss, but consider incorporating additional checks like Ferrothorn and Genesect to beat Tapu Bulu and having Tapu Lele and Kyurem-B to beat Amoonguss. Terrakion and Kartana are decent partners that provide strong Fighting-type coverage to beat Ferrothorn, potentially allowing Mega Swampert to justify running Ice Punch over Superpower. Checks to opposing weather, especially sun, are important. Landorus-T is a great option for checking both Mega Charizard Y and Tyranitar. Tapu Koko is a good check to Mega Charizard Y, and it is also a fast attacker that functions outside of rain. Stealth Rock setters like Ferrothorn and Landorus-T can punish opponents that repeatedly switch in Intimidate users like Mega Salamence, weather setters like Mega Charizard Y, and speed control users like Zapdos and Kyurem-B. Ferrothorn enjoys working with rain teams, as they naturally pressure the Fire-types it hates. In return, Ferrothorn is a decent bulky pivot, checks Tapu Fini (a Pokemon typically used on teams as a rain check), helps check opposing rain teams, and serves as a reliable late-game win condition.

Other Options
=============

Stomping Tantrum can be used over Earthquake to allow Mega Swampert to freely use its Ground-type attack without regard for its ally. However, the loss of spread coverage is noticeable at times. Rock Slide and Stone Edge are options that allow Mega Swampert to ensure a KO against Mega Charizard Y on a predicted switch in. Aqua Tail and Liquidation are options over Waterfall for more power. However, using Aqua Tail means sacrificing accuracy, and while Liquidation offers marginally higher Base Power, it is rarely worth missing out on a 20% flinch chance.

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

**Grass-types**: Tapu Bulu lowers the damage dealt by Earthquake, easily takes a Waterfall, and OHKOes Swampert with Wood Hammer or Horn Leech. Amoonguss tanks hits from Swampert and potentially hits hard with Giga Drain. Solar Beam from Mega Charizard Y and Bloom Doom from Volcanion and Heatran are also things to watch out for.

**Water-types**: Bulky Water-types like Tapu Fini and Milotic can comfortably retaliate with STAB Water-type attacks that are boosted by the same rain that Mega Swampert relies on.

**Intimidate**: Intimidate users like Mega Salamence and Landorus-T reduce Swampert's ability to break through an opposing team, but they do risk taking a Waterfall or Ice Punch in retaliation.

**Opposing Weather**: Mega Swampert becomes dead weight outside of rain, since it relies on its Swift Swim Speed boost to maintain its offensive pressure. Therefore, opposing weather setters like Mega Charizard Y, Tyranitar, and Alolan Ninetales can be problematic.

**Tailwind, Trick Room, and Icy Wind**: Mega Swampert relies on its high Speed to maintain momentum, so opposing speed control is disruptive. Tailwind setters like Zapdos and Mega Salamence negate Mega Swampert's Swift Swim Speed boost, while Trick Room setters like Bronzong and Hoopa-U can reverse it. Kyurem-B can wall a non-Superpower Mega Swampert and whittle down its Speed with Icy Wind.
 
Last edited:

talkingtree

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  • [Set] Move 4 HP EVs somewhere else, best to take less residual damage when possible
  • [Moves] Waterfall can also flinch, which is useful with Mega Swampert's high speed under rain
  • [SD] Jolly lets Mega Swampert outrun CS Genesect and +1 Volcarona, but Adamant is usually preferred for the boosted power
  • [TO] Marshadow also makes it easier for Swampert to drop Superpower
  • [OO] (optional) non-Mega WG Swampert might have a place here
Looks solid, QC 1/2 from me
 
amcheck
  • [OVERVIEW] iirc mechanics changes from previous generations aren't supposed to be mentioned in analyses. if that's so, then you should revise the second sentence.
  • [OVERVIEW] the overview would benefit from adding a couple sentences elaborating on when/why you should use mega swampert over other rain sweepers.
  • [USAGE TIPS] swampert also makes a great late game cleaner due to its high speed.
  • [TEAM OPTIONS] checks to grass-types are essential. good examples include kyurem-b and pelipper for amoonguss and tapu bulu, and marshadow for ferrothorn. (you may want to revise the order in this section cause ik you mention marshadow earlier)
  • [OTHER OPTIONS] stomping tantrum is worth a mention since it bypasses wide guard and fits well on teams that lack ground immunities. i could even see this as a moves mention but that's up to you.
  • [CHECKS AND COUNTERS] i'd add a tag for bulky water-types such as tapu fini and milotic, since they can easily eat up swampert's attacks and dish out significant damage in return under rain.
solid stuff :toast:
 

Idyll

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OV
  • Compared to the other Swift Swim sweepers, Mega Swampert is actually pretty bulky as hell, and it should be noted that it fits better on those rain squads that are more bulk-oriented. It's not really only "decent", as for a fast attacker with its power level in the rain, 100 / 110 / 110 is outstanding and commands respect since it's hard to trade against, and this point is pretty much its biggest selling point.
  • Waterfall is p notable as, in a vacuum, it's just as strong as Kingdra Hydro (non-LO, they're usually Z) w/ none of the drawbacks.
Moves
  • EQ also lets it hit Volcanion and is p neat in cleaning weakened stuff.
UT
  • You should say something about leveraging the fact that Mega Pert isn't really threatened by most attackers so it can leverage its great bulk p easily, letting it go on the offensive and check down a slot on the opponent's field p easily and often.
TO
  • Add something about Ferro also being great against opposing rain and fini
  • Specific measures for Bulu / Amoong / Ferro? Peli alone wont cut it as that gets pressured way too easily
qc dos / dos
 

A Cake Wearing A Hat

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Hey, this is an unofficial check, implement what you want.
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[OVERVIEW]

Mega Swampert is a physical rain sweeper with a high Attack, a well-rounded movepool, respectable bulk, and only one weakness. Whereas other rain sweepers like Kingdra and Ludicolo offer fast but frail offenses suitable for highly offensive teams, Mega Swampert has enough bulk and power to function well on bulkier, more balance-oriented teambuilds teams that still want the Speed advantages offered by a Swift Swim user. Unlike other popular rain sweepers such as Kingdra and Ludicolo, Mega Swampert isn't able to make use of an item to augment its power, but its base Attack stat is significantly higher to compensate for this. That said, as a physical attacker, Mega Swampert can quickly be tamed down by opposing Intimidate users like Mega Salamence and Scrafty. By exploiting Mega Evolution mechanics, Swampert is always guaranteed a Swift Swim Speed boost on the turn it Mega Evolves if a rain setter is switched in on that turn, making it a much more flexible and forgiving lead than other Swift Swim users. Howver However, Mega Swampert also takes up a team's Mega slot, whereas its alternatives do not. Mega Swampert's movepool offerd offers more well-rounded coverage than Kingdra's or and Ludicolo's, but Mega Swampert still has a slight case of four-(RH)move-moveslot-(RH) syndrome; it really wants to run Waterfall, Earthquake, Ice Punch and Superpower on the same set but needs to give one of those moves up for Protect.

[SET]

name: Rain Attacker
move 1: Waterfall
move 2: Earthquake
move 3: Ice Punch / Superpower
move 4: Protect
Item: Swampertite
Ability: Damp
Nature: Adamant
Evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

Moves
========

Waterfall is Mega Swampert's most reliable Water-type attack, and its hardest hitting STAB attack overall when rain is set. Earthquake is a secondary STAB move that provides spread coverage, allows it to hit hard against bulky Water-types like Volcanion and Tapu Fini, and works well as an attack for cleaning up against weakened targets in the late-game. Ice Punch is used to score OHKOs on Landorus-T, Mega Salamence and Zygarde while also, to an extent, providing coverage against Grass-types like Amoonguss and Tapu Bulu. Superpower offers super-(RH) effective coverage against bulky targets like Ferrothorn, Snorlax and Tyranitar. Low Kick is an option over Superpower for Fighting-type coverage that doesn't drop Mega Swampert's stats, but is a bit weaker against Ferrothorn and other targets weighing less than 200 kg. While Earthquake is usually too good to give up, if you don't feel your team needs the Ground spread coverage, it is acceptable to run both Ice Punch and Superpower for better matchups against both Mega Salamence and Ferrothorn. Protect keeps Mega Swampert safe while its partners deal with any possible threats.

Set Details
========

Maximum investments in Attack and Speed EVs allows Mega Swampert to hit as hard and fast as possible. Adamant is generally the preferred nature for maximum power. However, a Jolly nature is necessary for Mega Swampert to outspeed Choice Scarf Genesect, Choice Scarf Victini, and +1 Speed Volcorona. Additionally, a Jolly nature allows Mega Swampert to outspeed Zapdos against an opposing Tailwind. The power drop inherent to running Jolly is noticable noticeable, though. Neither of Swampert's pre-Mega abilities have much competitive value, but Damp has a small niche in preventing Explosion, (AC) while there is never a good reason to keep Swampert unevolved while attacking attack before Swampert Mega Evolves.

Usage Tips
========

Mega Swampert and its respective rain setter make for excellent leads that apply immediate offensive pressure when the opponent isn't carrying an opposing weather setter. When faced against opposing weather teams, consider playing Mega Swampert more conservatively, opting to take out the opponent's weather setter first if possible; Mega Swampert quickly becomes dead weight once Swift Swim deactivates. When leading with Mega Swampert, don't feel obligated to lead with the rain setter as well. Swampert is always guaranteed a Swift Swim Speed boost on the turn it Mega Evolves if a rain setter is switched in on that turn, so you can lead with a second offensive option and sub switch it out for your rain setter if you deem the Swift Swim boost desirable on that turn. While Mega Swampert is often a great lead, it is sometimes better to keep it in the back it as a late-game cleaner if you're able to clear out Mega Swampert's checks and counters beforehand. When in play, Swampert's main goal is to spam Waterfall and Earthquake to break down the opposing team. Thanks to its good bulk and great defensive typing with only one weakness, Mega Swampert isn't really threatened by most attackers under rain, so it can leverage its bulk and power to consistently apply offensive pressure while wearing down opposing targets. Just stay well clear of any potential Grass-type attacks! The opponent will be tempted to switch in an Intimidate user like Mega Salamence or Landorus-T to drop Mega Swampert's power, so factor that in to into your expectations around about Swampert's damage output, and try to make these reads so you can catch Mence/Lando Mega Salamence and Landorus-T with an Ice Punch on their switch in. If using Superpower, keep in mind it is going to drop Swampert's Attack and Defense, potentially making it dead weight on the battlefield.

Team Options
========

A rain setter is a mandatory partner for teams with Mega Swampert. Pelipper has phenomenal synergy with Mega Swampert, as it allows allowing Mega Swampert to freely spam Earthquakes that, in turn,which KOes Electric-types like Tapu Koko that threaten Pelipper. Politoed is an option over Pelipper that can provide Helping Hand support to cancel out potential Intimidate drops Mega Swampert may incur. It is really important to bring strong checks to Grass-types like Tapu Bulu, Amoonguss, and Ferrothorn, since bulky rain teams with Mega Swampert struggle to check these threats. Pelipper can help check Tapu Bulu and Amoonguss, but consider incorporating additional checks like Ferrothorn or and Genesect to beat Tapu Bulu, and Tapu Lele or and Kyurem-B to beat Amoonguss. Terrakion and Kartana are decent partners that provides strong Fighting-type coverage to beat Ferrothorn, potentially allowing Mega Swampert to justify running Ice Punch over Superpower. Checks to opposing weather (especially sun), (AC) especially sun, (AC) are important. Landorus-T is a great option for checking both Mega Charizard Y and Tyranitar. Tapu Koko is a good check to Charizard (Specify which charizard mega if talking about mega charizard), and it is also a fast attacker that functions outside of rain. Stealth Rock setters like Ferrothorn and Landorus-T can punish opponents that repeatedly switch in Intimidate users like Mega Salamence, weather setters like Mega Charizard Y, and speed control setters like Zapdos and Kyurem-B. Ferrothorn enjoys working with rain teams, as they naturally pressure the Fire-types it hates. In return, Ferrothorn makes is a decent bulky pivot, checks Tapu Fini (a Pokemon typically used on opposing teams as a rain check), helps check opposing rain mirrors teams, and can serve serves as a reliable late-game win condition.

Other Options
=============

Stomping Tantrum can be used over Earthquake to allow Mega Swampert to freely use its Ground-type STAB without regard for its ally. However, the loss of spread coverage is noticable noticeable at times. Rock Slide and Stone Edge are options that allow Mega Swampert to ensure a KO against Mega Charizard Y on a predicted switch-in. Aqua Tail and Liquidation are options over Waterfall for more power. However, using Aqua Tail means sacrificing accuracy, and while Liquidation offers marginally higher Base Power it is rarely worth missing out on a 30% 20% chance to flinch the target.

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

**Grass-types**: Tapu Bulu nerfs lowers the damage dealt by Earthquake, easily takes a Waterfall, and OHKOes Swampert with Wood Hammer/ or Horn Leech. Amoonguss tanks hits from Swampert and potentially hits hard with Giga Drain. Solar Beam from Charizard Y and Bloom Doom from Volcanion and Heatran are also things to watch out for.

**Water-types**: Bulky Water-types like Tapu Fini and Milotic can comfortably retaliate with STAB Water-type attacks that are boosted from the same rain conditions that Mega Swampert relies on.

**Intimidate**: Intimidate users like Mega Salamence and Landorus-T reduce Swampert's ability to break through an opposing team, but they do risk taking a Waterfall or Ice Punch in retaliation.

**Opposing Weather**: Mega Swampert quickly becomes dead weight outside of rain, since it relies on its Swift Swim Speed boost to maintain its offensive pressure. Therefore, opposing weather setters like Mega Charizard Y, Tyranitar, and Alolan Ninetales can be problematic for Mega Swampert.

**Tailwind, Trick Room, (AC) and Icy Wind**: Mega Swampert relies on its high Speed to maintain momentum, so opposing speed control is disruptive. Tailwind setters like Zapdos and Mega Salamence negate Mega Swampert's Swift Swim Speed boost, while Trick Room setters like Bronzong and Hoopa-U can reverse it. Kyurem-B can wall a non-Superpower Mega Swampert and whittle down its Speed with Icy Wind.


edit: had to go really quickly after finishing this, came back and noticed a couple uncapitalized speed's and fixed that
 
Last edited:

Lumari

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GP 1/2
[OVERVIEW]

Mega Swampert is a physical rain sweeper with a high Attack, a well-rounded movepool, respectable bulk, and only one weakness. Whereas other rain sweepers like Kingdra and Ludicolo offer fast but frail offenses suitable for highly offensive teams, Mega Swampert has enough bulk and power to function well on bulkier, more balance-oriented teambuilds teams that still want the Speed (keep this one lowercase) advantages offered by a Swift Swim user. Unlike other popular rain sweepers such as Kingdra and Ludicolo, Mega Swampert isn't able to make use of an item to augment its power, but its base Attack stat is significantly higher to compensate for this. That said, as a physical attacker, Mega Swampert can quickly be tamed down by opposing Intimidate users like Mega Salamence and Scrafty. By exploiting Mega Evolution mechanics, Swampert is always guaranteed a Swift Swim Speed boost on the turn it Mega Evolves if a rain setter is switched in on that turn, making it a much more flexible and forgiving lead than other Swift Swim users. Howver However, Mega Swampert also takes up a team's Mega slot, whereas its alternatives do not. Furthermore, while Mega Swampert's movepool offerd offers more well-rounded coverage than Kingdra's or and Ludicolo's, but Mega Swampert it still has a slight case of four-(RH)move-moveslot-(RH) syndrome; it really wants to run Waterfall, Earthquake, Ice Punch and Superpower on the same set but needs to give one of those moves up for Protect.

[SET]
name: Rain Attacker
move 1: Waterfall
move 2: Earthquake
move 3: Ice Punch / Superpower
move 4: Protect
item: (lowercase the rest too) Swampertite
ability: Damp
nature: Adamant
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Waterfall is Mega Swampert's most reliable Water-type attack, and as well as its hardest-hitting (AH) STAB attack overall when rain is set. Earthquake is a secondary STAB move that provides spread coverage, allows it Mega Swampert to hit hard against bulky Water-types like Volcanion and Tapu Fini, and works well as an attack for cleaning up against weakened targets in the late-game. Ice Punch is used to score OHKOs on Landorus-T, Mega Salamence and Zygarde while also, to an extent, providing coverage against Grass-types like Amoonguss and Tapu Bulu. Superpower offers super-(RH) effective coverage against bulky targets like Ferrothorn, Snorlax, (AC) and Tyranitar. Low Kick is an option over Superpower for Fighting-type coverage that doesn't drop Mega Swampert's stats, but it is a bit weaker against Ferrothorn and other targets weighing less than 200 kg. While Earthquake is usually too good to give up, if you don't feel your team needs the Ground spread coverage, it is acceptable to run both Ice Punch and Superpower for better matchups against both Mega Salamence and Ferrothorn. Protect keeps Mega Swampert safe while its partners deal with any possible threats.

Set Details
========

Maximum investments in Attack and Speed EVs allows Mega Swampert to hit as hard and fast as possible. Adamant is generally the preferred nature for maximum power. However, a Jolly nature is necessary for Mega Swampert to outspeed Choice Scarf Genesect, Choice Scarf Victini, and +1 Speed Volcorona Volcarona. Additionally, a Jolly nature allows Mega Swampert to outspeed Zapdos against an opposing Tailwind. The power drop inherent to running Jolly is noticable noticeable, though. Neither of Swampert's pre-Mega abilities have much competitive value, but Damp has a small niche in preventing Explosion, (AC) while there is never a good reason to keep Swampert unevolved while attacking attack before Swampert Mega Evolves.

Usage Tips
========

Mega Swampert and its respective rain setter make for excellent leads that apply immediate offensive pressure when the opponent isn't carrying an opposing weather setter. When faced against opposing weather teams, consider playing Mega Swampert more conservatively, opting to take out the opponent's weather setter first if possible; Mega Swampert quickly becomes dead weight once Swift Swim deactivates. When leading with Mega Swampert, don't feel obligated to lead with the rain setter as well. Swampert is always guaranteed a Swift Swim Speed boost on the turn it Mega Evolves if a rain setter is switched in on that turn, so you can lead with a second offensive option and sub switch it out for your rain setter if you deem the Swift Swim boost desirable on that turn. While Mega Swampert is often a great lead, it is sometimes better to keep it in the back it as a late-game cleaner if you're able to clear out Mega Swampert's checks and counters beforehand. When in play, Swampert's main goal is to spam Waterfall and Earthquake to break down the opposing team. Thanks to its good bulk and great defensive typing with only one weakness, Mega Swampert isn't really threatened by most attackers under rain, so it can leverage its bulk and power to consistently apply offensive pressure while wearing down opposing targets. Just stay well clear of any potential Grass-type attacks! The opponent will be tempted to switch in an Intimidate user like Mega Salamence or Landorus-T to drop Mega Swampert's power, so factor that in to into your expectations around about Swampert's damage output, and try to make these reads so you can catch Mence/Lando Mega Salamence and Landorus-T with an Ice Punch on their switch in. If using Superpower, keep in mind it is going to drop Swampert's Attack and Defense, potentially making it dead weight on the battlefield.

Team Options
========

A rain setter is a mandatory partner for teams with Mega Swampert. Pelipper has phenomenal synergy with Mega Swampert, as it allows allowing Mega Swampert to freely spam Earthquakes that, in turn,which KOes ("to KO" imo) Electric-types like Tapu Koko that threaten Pelipper. Politoed is an option over Pelipper that can provide Helping Hand support to cancel out potential Intimidate drops Mega Swampert may incur. It is really important to bring strong checks to Grass-types like Tapu Bulu, Amoonguss, and Ferrothorn, since bulky rain teams with Mega Swampert struggle to check these threats. Pelipper can help check Tapu Bulu and Amoonguss, but consider incorporating additional checks like Ferrothorn or and Genesect to beat Tapu Bulu (RC) and Tapu Lele or and Kyurem-B to beat Amoonguss. Terrakion and Kartana are decent partners that provides strong Fighting-type coverage to beat Ferrothorn, potentially allowing Mega Swampert to justify running Ice Punch over Superpower. Checks to opposing weather (especially sun), (AC) especially sun, (AC) are important. Landorus-T is a great option for checking both Mega Charizard Y and Tyranitar. Tapu Koko is a good check to Charizard (Specify which charizard mega if talking about mega charizard), and it is also a fast attacker that functions outside of rain. Stealth Rock setters like Ferrothorn and Landorus-T can punish opponents that repeatedly switch in Intimidate users like Mega Salamence, weather setters like Mega Charizard Y, and speed control setters move users like Zapdos and Kyurem-B. Ferrothorn enjoys working with rain teams, as they naturally pressure the Fire-types it hates. In return, Ferrothorn makes is (makes is fine) a decent bulky pivot, checks Tapu Fini (a Pokemon typically used on opposing teams as a rain check), helps check opposing rain mirrors teams, and can serve serves as a reliable late-game win condition.

Other Options
=============

Stomping Tantrum can be used over Earthquake to allow Mega Swampert to freely use its Ground-type STAB without regard for its ally. However, the loss of spread coverage is noticable noticeable at times. Rock Slide and Stone Edge are options that allow Mega Swampert to ensure a KO against Mega Charizard Y on a predicted switch-in. Aqua Tail and Liquidation are options over Waterfall for more power. However, using Aqua Tail means sacrificing accuracy, and while Liquidation offers marginally higher Base Power it is rarely worth missing out on a 30% 20% flinch chance to flinch the target.

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

**Grass-types**: Tapu Bulu nerfs lowers the damage dealt by Earthquake, easily takes a Waterfall, and OHKOes Swampert with Wood Hammer/ or Horn Leech. Amoonguss tanks hits from Swampert and potentially hits hard with Giga Drain. Solar Beam from Mega Charizard Y and Bloom Doom from Volcanion and Heatran are also things to watch out for.

**Water-types**: Bulky Water-types like Tapu Fini and Milotic can comfortably retaliate with STAB Water-type attacks that are boosted from the same rain conditions that Mega Swampert relies on.

**Intimidate**: Intimidate users like Mega Salamence and Landorus-T reduce Swampert's ability to break through an opposing team, but they do risk taking a Waterfall or Ice Punch in retaliation.

**Opposing Weather**: Mega Swampert quickly becomes dead weight outside of rain, since it relies on its Swift Swim Speed boost to maintain its offensive pressure. Therefore, opposing weather setters like Mega Charizard Y, Tyranitar, and Alolan Ninetales can be problematic for Mega Swampert.

**Tailwind, Trick Room, (AC) and Icy Wind**: Mega Swampert relies on its high Speed to maintain momentum, so opposing speed control is disruptive. Tailwind setters like Zapdos and Mega Salamence negate Mega Swampert's Swift Swim Speed boost, while Trick Room setters like Bronzong and Hoopa-U can reverse it. Kyurem-B can wall a non-Superpower Mega Swampert and whittle down its Speed with Icy Wind.
 
Last edited:

GenOne

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Implemented, below and in the OP!

[OVERVIEW]

Mega Swampert is a physical rain sweeper with a high Attack, a well-rounded movepool, respectable bulk, and only one weakness. Whereas other rain sweepers like Kingdra and Ludicolo offer fast but frail offenses suitable for highly offensive teams, Mega Swampert has enough bulk and power to function well on bulkier, more balance-oriented teams that still want the speed advantages offered by a Swift Swim user. Unlike other popular rain sweepers such as Kingdra and Ludicolo, Mega Swampert isn't able to make use of an item to augment its power, but its base Attack stat is significantly higher to compensate for this. That said, as a physical attacker, Mega Swampert can quickly be tamed down by opposing Intimidate users like Mega Salamence and Scrafty. By exploiting Mega Evolution mechanics, Swampert is always guaranteed a Swift Swim Speed boost on the turn it Mega Evolves if a rain setter is switched in on that turn, making it a much more flexible and forgiving lead than other Swift Swim users. However, Mega Swampert also takes up a team's Mega slot, whereas its alternatives do not. Furthermore, while Mega Swampert's movepool offers more well-rounded coverage than Kingdra's and Ludicolo's, it still has a slight case of four move-moveslot syndrome; it really wants to run Waterfall, Earthquake, Ice Punch and Superpower on the same set but needs to give one of those moves up for Protect.

[SET]
name: Rain Attacker
move 1: Waterfall
move 2: Earthquake
move 3: Ice Punch / Superpower
move 4: Protect
item: Swampertite
ability: Damp
nature: Adamant
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Waterfall is Mega Swampert's most reliable Water-type attack, as well as its hardest-hitting STAB attack overall when rain is set. Earthquake is a secondary STAB move that provides spread coverage, allows Mega Swampert to hit hard against bulky Water-types like Volcanion and Tapu Fini, and works well as an attack for cleaning up against weakened targets late-game. Ice Punch is used to score OHKOs on Landorus-T, Mega Salamence and Zygarde while also, to an extent, providing coverage against Grass-types like Amoonguss and Tapu Bulu. Superpower offers super-(RH) effective coverage against bulky targets like Ferrothorn, Snorlax, and Tyranitar. Low Kick is an option over Superpower for Fighting-type coverage that doesn't drop Mega Swampert's stats, but it is a bit weaker against Ferrothorn and other targets weighing less than 200 kg. While Earthquake is usually too good to give up, if you don't feel your team needs the Ground spread coverage, it is acceptable to run both Ice Punch and Superpower for better matchups against both Mega Salamence and Ferrothorn. Protect keeps Mega Swampert safe while its partners deal with any possible threats.

Set Details
========

Maximum investment in Attack and Speed allows Mega Swampert to hit as hard and fast as possible. Adamant is generally the preferred nature for maximum power. However, a Jolly nature is necessary for Mega Swampert to outspeed Choice Scarf Genesect, Choice Scarf Victini, and +1 Speed Volcarona. Additionally, a Jolly nature allows Mega Swampert to outspeed Zapdos against an opposing Tailwind. The power drop inherent to running Jolly is noticeable, though. Neither of Swampert's pre-Mega abilities have much competitive value, but Damp has a small niche in preventing Explosion, while there is never a good reason to attack before Swampert Mega Evolves.

Usage Tips
========

Mega Swampert and its respective rain setter make for excellent leads that apply immediate offensive pressure when the opponent isn't carrying an opposing weather setter. When faced against opposing weather teams, consider playing Mega Swampert more conservatively, opting to take out the opponent's weather setter first if possible; Mega Swampert quickly becomes dead weight once Swift Swim deactivates. When leading with Mega Swampert, don't feel obligated to lead with the rain setter as well. Swampert is always guaranteed a Swift Swim Speed boost on the turn it Mega Evolves if a rain setter is switched in on that turn, so you can lead with a second offensive option and switch it out for your rain setter if you deem the Swift Swim boost desirable on that turn. While Mega Swampert is often a great lead, it is sometimes better to keep it in the back it as a late-game cleaner if you're able to clear out Mega Swampert's checks and counters beforehand. When in play, Swampert's main goal is to spam Waterfall and Earthquake to break down the opposing team. Thanks to its good bulk and great defensive typing with only one weakness, Mega Swampert isn't really threatened by most attackers under rain, so it can leverage its bulk and power to consistently apply offensive pressure while wearing down opposing targets. Just stay clear of any potential Grass-type attacks! The opponent will be tempted to switch in an Intimidate user like Mega Salamence or Landorus-T to drop Mega Swampert's power, so factor that into your expectations about Swampert's damage output, and try to make these reads so you can catch Mega Salamence and Landorus-T with an Ice Punch on their switch in. If using Superpower, keep in mind it is going to drop Swampert's Attack and Defense, potentially making it dead weight on the battlefield.

Team Options
========

A rain setter is a mandatory partner for teams with Mega Swampert. Pelipper has phenomenal synergy with Mega Swampert, allowing Mega Swampert to freely spam Earthquake, to KO Electric-types like Tapu Koko that threaten Pelipper. Politoed is an option over Pelipper that can provide Helping Hand support to cancel out potential Intimidate drops Mega Swampert may incur. It is really important to bring strong checks to Grass-types like Tapu Bulu, Amoonguss, and Ferrothorn, since bulky rain teams with Mega Swampert struggle to check these threats. Pelipper can help check Tapu Bulu and Amoonguss, but consider incorporating additional checks like Ferrothorn and Genesect to beat Tapu Bulu and Tapu Lele and Kyurem-B to beat Amoonguss. Terrakion and Kartana are decent partners that provide strong Fighting-type coverage to beat Ferrothorn, potentially allowing Mega Swampert to justify running Ice Punch over Superpower. Checks to opposing weather, especially sun, are important. Landorus-T is a great option for checking both Mega Charizard Y and Tyranitar. Tapu Koko is a good check to Mega Charizard Y, and it is also a fast attacker that functions outside of rain. Stealth Rock setters like Ferrothorn and Landorus-T can punish opponents that repeatedly switch in Intimidate users like Mega Salamence, weather setters like Mega Charizard Y, and speed control move users like Zapdos and Kyurem-B. Ferrothorn enjoys working with rain teams, as they naturally pressure the Fire-types it hates. In return, Ferrothorn is a decent bulky pivot, checks Tapu Fini (a Pokemon typically used on opposing teams as a rain check), helps check opposing rain teams, and serves as a reliable late-game win condition.

Other Options
=============

Stomping Tantrum can be used over Earthquake to allow Mega Swampert to freely use its Ground-type STAB without regard for its ally. However, the loss of spread coverage is noticeable at times. Rock Slide and Stone Edge are options that allow Mega Swampert to ensure a KO against Mega Charizard Y on a predicted switch-in. Aqua Tail and Liquidation are options over Waterfall for more power. However, using Aqua Tail means sacrificing accuracy, and while Liquidation offers marginally higher Base Power it is rarely worth missing out on a 20% flinch chance.

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

**Grass-types**: Tapu Bulu lowers the damage dealt by Earthquake, easily takes a Waterfall, and OHKOes Swampert with Wood Hammer or Horn Leech. Amoonguss tanks hits from Swampert and potentially hits hard with Giga Drain. Solar Beam from Mega Charizard Y and Bloom Doom from Volcanion and Heatran are also things to watch out for.

**Water-types**: Bulky Water-types like Tapu Fini and Milotic can comfortably retaliate with STAB Water-type attacks that are boosted from the same rain conditions that Mega Swampert relies on.

**Intimidate**: Intimidate users like Mega Salamence and Landorus-T reduce Swampert's ability to break through an opposing team, but they do risk taking a Waterfall or Ice Punch in retaliation.

**Opposing Weather**: Mega Swampert quickly becomes dead weight outside of rain, since it relies on its Swift Swim Speed boost to maintain its offensive pressure. Therefore, opposing weather setters like Mega Charizard Y, Tyranitar, and Alolan Ninetales can be problematic for Mega Swampert.

**Tailwind, Trick Room, and Icy Wind**: Mega Swampert relies on its high Speed to maintain momentum, so opposing speed control is disruptive. Tailwind setters like Zapdos and Mega Salamence negate Mega Swampert's Swift Swim Speed boost, while Trick Room setters like Bronzong and Hoopa-U can reverse it. Kyurem-B can wall a non-Superpower Mega Swampert and whittle down its Speed with Icy Wind.
 

GP 2/2
remove add comments

[OVERVIEW]

Mega Swampert is a physical rain sweeper with a high Attack, a well-rounded movepool, respectable bulk, and only one weakness. Whereas other rain sweepers like Kingdra and Ludicolo offer fast but frail offenses stat spreads that are suitable for highly offensive teams, Mega Swampert has enough bulk and power to function well on bulkier, more balance-oriented teams that still want the speed advantages offered by a Swift Swim user. Unlike other popular rain sweepers such as Kingdra and Ludicolo, (already mentioned) Mega Swampert isn't able to make use of an item to augment its power, but its base Attack stat is significantly higher to compensate for this. That said, as a physical attacker, Mega Swampert can quickly be tamed shut down by opposing Intimidate users like Mega Salamence and Scrafty. By exploiting Thanks to Mega Evolution mechanics, Swampert is always guaranteed a Swift Swim Speed boost on the turn it Mega Evolves if a rain setter is switched in on that turn, making it a much more flexible and forgiving lead than other Swift Swim users. However, Mega Swampert also takes up a team's Mega slot, whereas its alternatives do not. Furthermore, while Mega Swampert's movepool offers more well-rounded coverage than Kingdra's and Ludicolo's, it still has a slight case of four move-moveslot syndrome; it really wants to run Waterfall, Earthquake, Ice Punch and Superpower on the same set but needs to give one of those moves up for Protect.

[SET]
name: Rain Attacker
move 1: Waterfall
move 2: Earthquake
move 3: Ice Punch / Superpower
move 4: Protect
item: Swampertite
ability: Damp
nature: Adamant
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Waterfall is Mega Swampert's most reliable Water-type attack, (comma) as well as its hardest-hitting STAB attack overall when in rain is set. Earthquake is a secondary STAB move that provides spread coverage, allows Mega Swampert to hit hard against bulky Water-types like Volcanion and Tapu Fini, and works well as an attack for cleaning up against weakened targets late-game. Ice Punch is used to score OHKOs on Landorus-T, Mega Salamence, (comma) and Zygarde while also, to an extent, (elaborate) providing coverage against Grass-types like Amoonguss and Tapu Bulu. Superpower offers super-(RH) (from previous check) effective coverage against bulky targets like Ferrothorn, Snorlax, and Tyranitar. Low Kick is an option over Superpower for Fighting-type coverage that doesn't drop Mega Swampert's stats, but it is a bit weaker against Ferrothorn and other targets weighing less than 200 kg. While Earthquake is usually too good to give up, if you don't feel your team needs the Ground-type spread coverage, it is acceptable to run both Ice Punch and Superpower for better matchups against both Mega Salamence and Ferrothorn. Protect keeps Mega Swampert safe while its partners deal with any possible threats.

Set Details
========

Maximum investment in Attack and Speed allows Mega Swampert to hit as hard and fast as possible. Adamant is generally the preferred nature for maximum power. However, a Jolly nature is necessary for Mega Swampert to outspeed Choice Scarf Genesect, Choice Scarf Victini, and +1 Speed Volcarona, (comma) and Tailwind-boosted Zapdos. Additionally, a Jolly nature allows Mega Swampert to outspeed Zapdos against an opposing Tailwind. The power drop inherent to running Jolly is noticeable, though. Neither of Swampert's pre-Mega abilities have much competitive value, but Damp has a small niche in preventing Explosion, while there is never a good reason to attack before Swampert Mega Evolves to utilize Torrent.

Usage Tips
========

Mega Swampert and its respective rain setter make for excellent leads that apply immediate offensive pressure when the opponent isn't carrying an opposing their own weather setter. When faced against opposing with weather teams, consider playing Mega Swampert more conservatively, opting to take out the opponent's weather setter first if possible; Mega Swampert quickly becomes dead weight once Swift Swim deactivates. When leading with Mega Swampert, don't feel obligated to lead with the rain setter as well. Swampert is always guaranteed a Swift Swim Speed boost on the turn it Mega Evolves if a rain setter is switched in on that turn, so you can lead with a second offensive option and switch it out for your rain setter if you deem the Swift Swim boost desirable on that turn. While Mega Swampert is often a great lead, it is sometimes better to keep it in the back it as a late-game cleaner if you're able to clear out Mega Swampert's checks and counters beforehand. When in play, Swampert's main goal is to spam Waterfall and Earthquake to break down the opposing team. Thanks to its good bulk and great defensive typing with only one weakness, Mega Swampert isn't really threatened by most attackers under rain, so it can leverage its bulk and power to consistently apply offensive pressure while wearing down opposing targets. Just stay clear of any potential Grass-type attacks! The opponent will be tempted to switch in an Intimidate user like Mega Salamence or Landorus-T to drop Mega Swampert's power, so factor that into your expectations about Swampert's damage output, and try to make these reads so you can catch Mega Salamence and Landorus-T with an Ice Punch on their switch in. If using Superpower, keep in mind that it is going to drop Swampert's Attack and Defense, potentially making it dead weight on the battlefield.

Team Options
========

A rain setter is a mandatory partner for teams with Mega Swampert. Pelipper has phenomenal synergy with Mega Swampert, allowing Mega Swampert to freely spam Earthquake, to KOing Electric-types like Tapu Koko that threaten Pelipper like Tapu Koko. Politoed is an option over Pelipper that can provide Helping Hand support to cancel out potential Intimidate drops Mega Swampert may incur. It is really important to bring strong checks to Grass-types like Tapu Bulu, Amoonguss, and Ferrothorn, since bulky rain teams with Mega Swampert struggle to check these threats. Pelipper can help check Tapu Bulu and Amoonguss, but consider incorporating additional checks like Ferrothorn and Genesect to beat Tapu Bulu and having Tapu Lele and Kyurem-B to beat Amoonguss. Terrakion and Kartana are decent partners that provide strong Fighting-type coverage to beat Ferrothorn, potentially allowing Mega Swampert to justify running Ice Punch over Superpower. Checks to opposing weather, especially sun, are important. Landorus-T is a great option for checking both Mega Charizard Y and Tyranitar. Tapu Koko is a good check to Mega Charizard Y, and it is also a fast attacker that functions outside of rain. Stealth Rock setters like Ferrothorn and Landorus-T can punish opponents that repeatedly switch in Intimidate users like Mega Salamence, weather setters like Mega Charizard Y, and speed control move users like Zapdos and Kyurem-B. Ferrothorn enjoys working with rain teams, as they naturally pressure the Fire-types it hates. In return, Ferrothorn is a decent bulky pivot, checks Tapu Fini (a Pokemon typically used on opposing teams as a rain check), helps check opposing rain teams, and serves as a reliable late-game win condition.

Other Options
=============

Stomping Tantrum can be used over Earthquake to allow Mega Swampert to freely use its Ground-type STAB attack without regard for its ally. However, the loss of spread coverage is noticeable at times. Rock Slide and Stone Edge are options that allow Mega Swampert to ensure a KO against Mega Charizard Y on a predicted switch-(hyphen)in. Aqua Tail and Liquidation are options over Waterfall for more power. However, using Aqua Tail means sacrificing accuracy, and while Liquidation offers marginally higher Base Power, (comma) it is rarely worth missing out on a 20% flinch chance.

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

**Grass-types**: Tapu Bulu lowers the damage dealt by Earthquake, easily takes a Waterfall, and OHKOes Swampert with Wood Hammer or Horn Leech. Amoonguss tanks hits from Swampert and potentially hits hard with Giga Drain. Solar Beam from Mega Charizard Y and Bloom Doom from Volcanion and Heatran are also things to watch out for.

**Water-types**: Bulky Water-types like Tapu Fini and Milotic can comfortably retaliate with STAB Water-type attacks that are boosted from by the same rain conditions that Mega Swampert relies on.

**Intimidate**: Intimidate users like Mega Salamence and Landorus-T reduce Swampert's ability to break through an opposing team, but they do risk taking a Waterfall or Ice Punch in retaliation.

**Opposing Weather**: Mega Swampert quickly becomes dead weight outside of rain, since it relies on its Swift Swim Speed boost to maintain its offensive pressure. Therefore, opposing weather setters like Mega Charizard Y, Tyranitar, and Alolan Ninetales can be problematic for Mega Swampert.

**Tailwind, Trick Room, and Icy Wind**: Mega Swampert relies on its high Speed to maintain momentum, so opposing speed control is disruptive. Tailwind setters like Zapdos and Mega Salamence negate Mega Swampert's Swift Swim Speed boost, while Trick Room setters like Bronzong and Hoopa-U can reverse it. Kyurem-B can wall a non-Superpower Mega Swampert and whittle down its Speed with Icy Wind.
 
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Implemented! Moving this thread and uploading to the dex.

[OVERVIEW]

Mega Swampert is a physical rain sweeper with high Attack, a well-rounded movepool, respectable bulk, and only one weakness. Whereas other rain sweepers like Kingdra and Ludicolo offer fast but frail stat spreads that are suitable for highly offensive teams, Mega Swampert has enough bulk and power to function well on bulkier, more balance-oriented teams that still want the speed advantages offered by a Swift Swim user. Unlike other popular rain sweepers, Mega Swampert isn't able to make use of an item to augment its power, but its base Attack stat is significantly higher to compensate. That said, as a physical attacker, Mega Swampert can quickly be shut down by Intimidate users like Mega Salamence and Scrafty. Thanks to Mega Evolution mechanics, Swampert is always guaranteed a Swift Swim Speed boost on the turn it Mega Evolves if a rain setter is switched in on that turn, making it a much more flexible and forgiving lead than other Swift Swim users. However, Mega Swampert also takes up a team's Mega slot, whereas its alternatives do not. Furthermore, while Mega Swampert's movepool offers more well-rounded coverage than Kingdra's and Ludicolo's, it still has a slight case of four move-moveslot syndrome; it really wants to run Waterfall, Earthquake, Ice Punch and Superpower on the same set but needs to give one of those moves up for Protect.

[SET]
name: Rain Attacker
move 1: Waterfall
move 2: Earthquake
move 3: Ice Punch / Superpower
move 4: Protect
item: Swampertite
ability: Damp
nature: Adamant
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Waterfall is Mega Swampert's most reliable Water-type attack as well as its hardest-hitting STAB attack overall in rain. Earthquake is a secondary STAB move that provides spread coverage, allows Mega Swampert to hit hard against bulky Water-types like Volcanion and Tapu Fini, and works well as an attack for cleaning up against weakened targets late-game. Ice Punch is used to score OHKOs on Landorus-T, Mega Salamence, and Zygarde while also providing coverage against Grass-types like Amoonguss and Tapu Bulu. Superpower offers super effective coverage against bulky targets like Ferrothorn, Snorlax, and Tyranitar. Low Kick is an option over Superpower for Fighting-type coverage that doesn't drop Mega Swampert's stats, but it is a bit weaker against Ferrothorn and other targets weighing less than 200 kg. While Earthquake is usually too good to give up, if you don't feel your team needs the Ground-type spread coverage, it is acceptable to run both Ice Punch and Superpower for better matchups against both Mega Salamence and Ferrothorn. Protect keeps Mega Swampert safe while its partners deal with any possible threats.

Set Details
========

Maximum investment in Attack and Speed allows Mega Swampert to hit as hard and fast as possible. Adamant is generally the preferred nature for maximum power. However, a Jolly nature is necessary for Mega Swampert to outspeed Choice Scarf Genesect, Choice Scarf Victini, +1 Speed Volcarona, and Tailwind-boosted Zapdos. The power drop inherent to running Jolly is noticeable, though. Neither of Swampert's pre-Mega abilities have much competitive value, but Damp has a small niche in preventing Explosion, while there is never a good reason to attack before Swampert Mega Evolves to utilize Torrent.

Usage Tips
========

Mega Swampert and its respective rain setter make for excellent leads that apply immediate offensive pressure when the opponent isn't carrying their own weather setter. When faced with weather teams, consider playing Mega Swampert more conservatively, opting to take out the opponent's weather setter first if possible; Mega Swampert becomes dead weight once Swift Swim deactivates. When leading with Mega Swampert, don't feel obligated to lead with the rain setter as well. Swampert is always guaranteed a Swift Swim Speed boost on the turn it Mega Evolves if a rain setter is switched in on that turn, so you can lead with a second offensive option and switch it out for your rain setter if you deem the Swift Swim boost desirable on that turn. While Mega Swampert is often a great lead, it is sometimes better to keep it in the back it as a late-game cleaner if you're able to clear out Mega Swampert's checks and counters beforehand. When in play, Swampert's main goal is to spam Waterfall and Earthquake to break down the opposing team. Thanks to its good bulk and great defensive typing, Mega Swampert isn't really threatened by most attackers under rain, so it can leverage its bulk and power to consistently apply offensive pressure while wearing down opposing targets. Just stay clear of any potential Grass-type attacks! The opponent will be tempted to switch in an Intimidate user like Mega Salamence or Landorus-T to drop Mega Swampert's power, so factor that into your expectations about Swampert's damage output, and try to catch Mega Salamence and Landorus-T with an Ice Punch on their switch in. If using Superpower, keep in mind that it is going to drop Swampert's Attack and Defense, potentially making it dead weight.

Team Options
========

A rain setter is a mandatory partner for teams with Mega Swampert. Pelipper has phenomenal synergy with Mega Swampert, allowing Mega Swampert to freely spam Earthquake, KOing Electric-types that threaten Pelipper like Tapu Koko. Politoed is an option over Pelipper that can provide Helping Hand support to cancel out potential Intimidate drops. It is really important to bring strong checks to Grass-types like Tapu Bulu, Amoonguss, and Ferrothorn, since bulky rain teams with Mega Swampert struggle to check these threats. Pelipper can help check Tapu Bulu and Amoonguss, but consider incorporating additional checks like Ferrothorn and Genesect to beat Tapu Bulu and having Tapu Lele and Kyurem-B to beat Amoonguss. Terrakion and Kartana are decent partners that provide strong Fighting-type coverage to beat Ferrothorn, potentially allowing Mega Swampert to justify running Ice Punch over Superpower. Checks to opposing weather, especially sun, are important. Landorus-T is a great option for checking both Mega Charizard Y and Tyranitar. Tapu Koko is a good check to Mega Charizard Y, and it is also a fast attacker that functions outside of rain. Stealth Rock setters like Ferrothorn and Landorus-T can punish opponents that repeatedly switch in Intimidate users like Mega Salamence, weather setters like Mega Charizard Y, and speed control users like Zapdos and Kyurem-B. Ferrothorn enjoys working with rain teams, as they naturally pressure the Fire-types it hates. In return, Ferrothorn is a decent bulky pivot, checks Tapu Fini (a Pokemon typically used on teams as a rain check), helps check opposing rain teams, and serves as a reliable late-game win condition.

Other Options
=============

Stomping Tantrum can be used over Earthquake to allow Mega Swampert to freely use its Ground-type attack without regard for its ally. However, the loss of spread coverage is noticeable at times. Rock Slide and Stone Edge are options that allow Mega Swampert to ensure a KO against Mega Charizard Y on a predicted switch in. Aqua Tail and Liquidation are options over Waterfall for more power. However, using Aqua Tail means sacrificing accuracy, and while Liquidation offers marginally higher Base Power, it is rarely worth missing out on a 20% flinch chance.

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

**Grass-types**: Tapu Bulu lowers the damage dealt by Earthquake, easily takes a Waterfall, and OHKOes Swampert with Wood Hammer or Horn Leech. Amoonguss tanks hits from Swampert and potentially hits hard with Giga Drain. Solar Beam from Mega Charizard Y and Bloom Doom from Volcanion and Heatran are also things to watch out for.

**Water-types**: Bulky Water-types like Tapu Fini and Milotic can comfortably retaliate with STAB Water-type attacks that are boosted by the same rain that Mega Swampert relies on.

**Intimidate**: Intimidate users like Mega Salamence and Landorus-T reduce Swampert's ability to break through an opposing team, but they do risk taking a Waterfall or Ice Punch in retaliation.

**Opposing Weather**: Mega Swampert becomes dead weight outside of rain, since it relies on its Swift Swim Speed boost to maintain its offensive pressure. Therefore, opposing weather setters like Mega Charizard Y, Tyranitar, and Alolan Ninetales can be problematic.

**Tailwind, Trick Room, and Icy Wind**: Mega Swampert relies on its high Speed to maintain momentum, so opposing speed control is disruptive. Tailwind setters like Zapdos and Mega Salamence negate Mega Swampert's Swift Swim Speed boost, while Trick Room setters like Bronzong and Hoopa-U can reverse it. Kyurem-B can wall a non-Superpower Mega Swampert and whittle down its Speed with Icy Wind.
 

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