Inconsistent Pokémon Lecture Notes

Definition of Inconsistent Pokémon

• Inconsistent Pokémon: Pokémon that frequently struggle to perform their designated role in a match.
• Difference between unable vs. not performing:
  • Example: Choice Specs Curum can be considered not able to break if facing Dragon Dance Roaring Moon, but not technically unable.
  • Against a stall team with Blissey, a Pokémon is generally unable to break.

Types of Inconsistency

• Focus on offensive inconsistency:
  • Defensive inconsistency is problematic and usually unacceptable.

Examples of Consistent vs. Inconsistent Pokémon

Consistent Breakers:

• Ochre Pon Wellspring
• Choice Band Hoopa Unbound
• Flame Orb Salazzle

Inconsistent Breakers:

• Choice Specs Enamorus
• Choice Specs Curum
• Choice Band Weavile
• Issues with matchups against Blissey, Galarian Sloking, and other Pokémon that resist their attacks.

Consistent Sweepers:

• No true consistent sweepers; many are inherently inconsistent.
• Example of inconsistent Pokémon: Iron Moth, Roaring Moon, Iron Valiant.

Strategies to Minimize Inconsistency

1. Use Hyper Offense:

   • Incorporate multiple inconsistent sweepers to increase chances of success.
   • Early sweepers can soften up the opposing team for later ones.

2. Force Chip Damage:

   • Use hazards or moves like Knock Off to chip away at counters (e.g., removing Heavy-Duty Boots from Corviknight).
   • Example: Pair a Choice Band Weavile with hazard support and Future Sight from Galarian Slowking to break through tough matchups.

3. Good Switch-ins to Limiting Pokémon:

   • Examples: Using Protect Heatran with Choice Specs Enamorus to safely handle threats.

4. Counter the Play Style:

   • Build a team that counters the overall play style of your opponent’s threats, especially consistent threats like Blissey against stall teams.

Warnings and Common Pitfalls

• Avoid using Lures:

  • Example: Using Choice Specs Darkrai with Focus Punch against Blissey is unreliable and generally ineffective.
  • Focused sets should be versatile and effective in multiple situations, not just tailored for specific threats.

• Inconsistency might be too great:

  • Sometimes, a Pokémon may be too inconsistent to justify its use even with support.
  • Example: Choice Specs Ciou is generally ineffective due to its common resistance.

Conclusion

• Building around inconsistent Pokémon can be strategic and rewarding.
• Acknowledge their limitations while maximizing team synergy.