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Managing Inconsistent Pokémon in Battles

Aug 21, 2024

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.