Inconsistent Pokémon

Definition

• Inconsistent Pokémon: Pokémon that frequently struggle to perform their intended role in battle.
  • Difference between unable vs. unable to perform:
    • Example: Choice Spec Curum vs. Dragon Dance Roaring Moon.
    • Example: Facing a stall team with Blissey.
    • Pokémon may have matchups that hinder their performance.

Focus on Offensive Inconsistency

• Defensive inconsistency is usually unacceptable and lacks workarounds.
• Offensive inconsistency can be managed and is more workable.

Examples of Breakers

• Consistent Breakers:
  • Ogerpon Wellspring
  • Choice Band Hoopa Unbound
  • Flame Orb Salazzle
• Inconsistent Breakers:
  • Choice Specs Enamorus
  • Choice Specs Curum
  • Choice Band Weavile
    • Struggle against specific matchups like Blissey or Alomola.

Examples of Sweepers

• Consistent Sweepers: None exist (thanks to game mechanics).
• Inconsistent Sweepers:
  • Iron Moth
  • Dragon Dance Roaring Moon
  • Double Dance Iron Valiant
  • Gouging Fire
    • Can be consistent in one aspect (e.g., getting chip damage) but not in sweeping.

Strategies to Manage Inconsistent Pokémon

1. Hyper Offense:

   • Use multiple inconsistent sweepers to increase overall odds.
   • Early sweepers can chip damage for later ones to capitalize on.

2. Force Chip Damage:

   • Create conditions to break limiting Pokémon.
   • Example strategies:
     • Hazard support to remove items (e.g., Heavy-Duty Boots) from Pokémon like Alomola.
     • Pairing with Pokémon that can apply pressure (e.g., Future Sight Galarian Slowking).

3. Good Switch-ins:

   • Ensure your team has Pokémon that can switch in against limiting threats.
   • Example: Using Protect Heatran against Galarian Sloking.

4. Countering Play Styles:

   • Build a team that counters the common play styles that limit your Pokémon's performance.
   • Example: If using Choice Specs Curum against stall, incorporate other anti-stall measures.

Important Considerations

• The strategies to minimize inconsistency should be used together for best results.

• Beware of Lures:

  • Avoid trying to bait limiting Pokémon with specific sets that only address one threat.
  • Examples of bad lures:
    • Choice Specs Darkrai with Focus Punch against Blissey.
    • Slapping on Terra Blast without wider applicability.

• Evaluate Pokémon Viability:

  • Some Pokémon are too inconsistent to justify their use despite support.
  • Example: Choice Specs CIO struggles against common threats.

Conclusion

• Inconsistent Pokémon can be viable with the right strategies.
• Careful consideration of team composition and matchups is crucial for effective gameplay.