What defines bulk? Is it the mere combination of both the Defense and HP stats of a Pokemon? Or is it something much more?
When one plays the game of Pokemon, bulk is often a key topic. Many players have a general sense of how bulky a Pokemon is; you know that Blissey has very impressive special bulk for example.
But when one begins to dive into the specifics of bulk comparison or definition, the issues begin to surmount. How much greater is the special bulk of specially defensive Giratina when compared to tank Tyranitar under sandstorm? What is the difference between the physical bulk of Evolite Chansey and support Ferrothorn? When does a lack of numerical bulk become unacceptable for a defensive Pokemon?
When such questions are asked, it comes as no surprise that many players often fall short. It is not common knowledge; very few players memorize this information from the top of their head. Still, there must be some way to objectively compare and define the bulk of such Pokemon.
It is through a glance within the world of numbers that we may find our answer, a way to objectively rank the physical, special, and mixed bulk of the Pokemon used in the Uber tier. More specifically, Defense Tiers will prove our means to the end.
The Numbers
What is a Defense Tier? Simply put:
To provide the most accurate reflection of the defensive capabilities of the Uber metagame, only the official sets currently on site or in C&C will be used. For instance, you wouldn't expect to find a physically defensive Reshiram despite the theoretical possibility.
The following charts were derived from a spreadsheet detailing all the defensive stats and tiers of all the Pokemon used in the Uber tier. The link is as follows:
All the charts below are arranged from highest to lowest, not taking into account any special modifications such as weaknesses, stat boosts, and resistances - these are calculated separately. However, the nature, possible item boost, possible sandstorm, and ability are taken into account.
The average of each chart has been set to 118 based on previous experience and that the average for all the defense tiers was coincidentally calculated to be around 118. I hope these charts prove convenient for your purposes.
NOTE: If there is no set name in front of the Pokemon's name, assume that tier score is true for all cases unless otherwise noted.
Physical Bulk Tier Chart:
With just a mere glance, these charts provide a quick and easy method for comparing the numerical bulk of one Pokemon to another. Just take two relevant Defense Tiers and note their values; whichever has the greater value has the stronger defensive capability in general. However, a little more effort may be required to gleam other information.
For those who wish to find an accurate adjective to describe the numerical bulk of a Pokemon in accordance with the Defense Tiers, the following chart will allow easy comparison.
Ranking Chart:
Because the Defense Tiers were calculated using the logarithmic scale base 1.1, a difference of 1 Defense Tier corresponds to a general 10% difference in the ability to take damage.
For instance, a Pokemon in Defense Tier 127 would generally take around 10% more damage than Defense Tier 127+1 = 128, yet would generally take around 10% less damage than Defense Tier 127-1 = 126. Around the same amount of damage would be taken when compared to another Pokemon in Defense Tier 127.
For those who desire a more specific comparison, a little arithmetic may be required. An equation for a quick estimation of percent difference is as follows:
An example of a possible calculation is below:
Here is the same example using this equation instead:
The Beginnings of a New Analysis - Your Turn
Through the interpretation of the raw data obtained through the Defense Tiers, we are now in a position to dive into the heart of the matter. What really defines "bulk" in Ubers?
This question may prove more difficult than it might seem. Conceivably, a look into the Defense Tiers themselves to see which Pokemon outright are notable for their numerical bulk might work. Yet if such an approach were made, we might fail to recognize the Pokemon which use other strengths to overcome their otherwise inadequate numerical bulk.
Take for example Skarmory. Skarmory is clearly inferior when compared to an Uber titan such as Lugia in essentially all regards numerically. Yet Skarmory has an extraordinary useful defensive typing, and carries valuable utility in Taunt, Spikes, and much more. Clearly, the bulk score isn't everything by itself.
There are so many factors to be taken into account for bulk. Entry hazard susceptibility, resistances, weaknesses; all of these factors are incredibly important in the Uber metagame. Luckily, there is a method for taking these modifications into account.
The special modification chart using Dragontamer's efforts as a base is as follows:
NOTE: Leftovers is meaningless for taking actual hits, so is not included. Spikes / Stealth Rock only applies on the switch-in if applicable.
When using this modification list, take the relevant Defense Tier in question and then add/subtract the desired bonus. For instance:
If you are interested, please take a look at the Uber Threat List. More specifically, the Defensive Threats. Are they any connections between that list and the Defense Tiers? What kind of Pokemon are on these lists? Utility? Niche? Overwhelming bulk?
Please take a look at the Offensive Threats after. Do you notice any patterns between the list and the Defense Tiers? Is there a certain "balance" between bulk and offense that distinguishes one Pokemon from the next? External factors? Movepool?
For example, you might notice that some Pokemon such as Deoxys-A who are typically associated with offense are not in Tier 1. Why is this the case? Is there a certain "threshold" in bulk that must be achieved in order to truly distinguish the great Pokemon from the rest?
Likewise, what defines an acceptable bulk for a defensive Pokemon? What is the bare minimum Defense Tier that a bulky Pokemon may lower itself before it becomes useless? How much of a "balance" is required?
Of course, analyzing the Defense Tiers themselves might bear some fruit. What misconceptions do we currently have about the numerical bulk of certain Pokemon? Conversely, when were we correct?
For instance, Chansey with her Evolite has always been associated with an increased Physical Defense when compared to Blissey. But have you tried comparing her physical bulk with the rest of the Uber tier? A quick glance into the charts reveal that standard Chansey is quite similar in physical bulk to Pokemon that we typically associate with good Physical Defense, such as standard Gliscor and support Ferrothorn. This isn't even the end of it though, as a full Physically Defensive Chansey actually has a Defense Tier of 123.16. To put this into perspective, Chansey actually has more physical bulk than physically defensive Kyogre and 252 HP Arceus! Clearly, there are many surprises to be found within the data.
Final Thoughts
When one really stops to reflect about the data provided from this resource, you might realize that there are many ways to interpret this information. Maybe you will try identifying key trends and connections between this resource and the others. Maybe you will use this data to supplement your own posts when you start to describe bulk. And of course, maybe you will focus on finding information that you personally find interesting. It matters not though; it's really up to you to determine how best you will use it. But no matter the path you eventually embark on, I hope this resource proves useful as we all strive together to better understand the Uber metagame as we know it today.
A Defense to Reach the Stars
A Numerical Glance at the Bulk in the Uber Tier
An Uber Extension of the Efforts from both Ulevo and Dragontamer
IntroductionA Numerical Glance at the Bulk in the Uber Tier
An Uber Extension of the Efforts from both Ulevo and Dragontamer
When one plays the game of Pokemon, bulk is often a key topic. Many players have a general sense of how bulky a Pokemon is; you know that Blissey has very impressive special bulk for example.
But when one begins to dive into the specifics of bulk comparison or definition, the issues begin to surmount. How much greater is the special bulk of specially defensive Giratina when compared to tank Tyranitar under sandstorm? What is the difference between the physical bulk of Evolite Chansey and support Ferrothorn? When does a lack of numerical bulk become unacceptable for a defensive Pokemon?
When such questions are asked, it comes as no surprise that many players often fall short. It is not common knowledge; very few players memorize this information from the top of their head. Still, there must be some way to objectively compare and define the bulk of such Pokemon.
It is through a glance within the world of numbers that we may find our answer, a way to objectively rank the physical, special, and mixed bulk of the Pokemon used in the Uber tier. More specifically, Defense Tiers will prove our means to the end.
The Numbers
What is a Defense Tier? Simply put:
Although this calculation might be a bit crude, its accuracy should be adequate for our purposes.Defense Tiers are a scale that measure a Pokemon's overall defensive capabilities from highest to lowest. This is accomplished by multiplying the HP stat with the Defense or Special Defense stat, and using that product with the base logarithm of 1.1.
SUPERIMP NOTE: Overall Defense Tier is the average between Physical Defense Tier and Special Defense Tier.
To provide the most accurate reflection of the defensive capabilities of the Uber metagame, only the official sets currently on site or in C&C will be used. For instance, you wouldn't expect to find a physically defensive Reshiram despite the theoretical possibility.
The following charts were derived from a spreadsheet detailing all the defensive stats and tiers of all the Pokemon used in the Uber tier. The link is as follows:
All the charts below are arranged from highest to lowest, not taking into account any special modifications such as weaknesses, stat boosts, and resistances - these are calculated separately. However, the nature, possible item boost, possible sandstorm, and ability are taken into account.
The average of each chart has been set to 118 based on previous experience and that the average for all the defense tiers was coincidentally calculated to be around 118. I hope these charts prove convenient for your purposes.
NOTE: If there is no set name in front of the Pokemon's name, assume that tier score is true for all cases unless otherwise noted.
Physical Bulk Tier Chart:
Special Bulk Tier Chart:Above 128 in Defense Tier
127 in Defense Tier
- The Great Wall Lugia with Multiscale active (132.70)
- Calm Mind Lugia with Multiscale active (130.29)
126 in Defense Tier
- The Great Wall & Mono-Attacker Giratina (127.37)
125 in Defense Tier
- Support Groudon (126.24)
- Support Arceus-Poison (126.06)
- Wall Cresselia (126.06)
- Defensive Landorus-T with Intimidate (126.01)
124 in Defense Tier
- Wallceus (125.66)
- Gyarados with Intimidate (125.43)
- The Great Wall Lugia (125.43)
- Hippowdon (125.36)
123 in Defense Tier
- Utility Counter Arceus-Fighting (124.67)
- Dual Screens + Lunar Dance Cresselia (124.35)
- Specially Defensive Giratina (124.31)
- ChestoRest Giratina (124.24)
122 in Defense Tier
- Paradancer Groudon (123.87)
- Support Arceus-Ground (123.80)
- SubSD Landorus-T with Intimidate (123.75)
- Defensive Heatran (123.52)
- Choice Band Groudon (123.39)
- Physically Defensive Ho-Oh (123.30)
- Support Arceus-Dark (123.30)
- Choice Band Landorus-T with Intimidate (123.22)
- SubCM Giratina-O (123.18)
- Calm Mind Lugia (123.01)
121 in Defense Tier
- 252 HP Arceus (122.93)
- RestTalk Giratina-O (122.68)
- Extreme Killer & Bandceus (122.62)
- Rock Polish Groudon (122.47)
- Agility + Taunt Deoxys-D (122.39)
- Support Skarmory (122.37)
- Support Giratina-O (122.23)
- Support Forretress (122.00)
120 in Defense Tier
- Bulk Up + RestTalk Dialga (121.97)
- Arceus-Flying (121.96)
- Defensive & Special Attacker Dialga (121.94)
- Choice Band & Substitute + Hone Claws Zekrom (121.94)
- Double Dance Landorus-T with Intimidate (121.88)
- Wobbuffet (121.83)
- Defensive Landorus-T (121.76)
- Utility Wall Deoxys-D (121.65)
- Offensive Pivot Groudon (121.61)
- Choice Band Metagross (121.58)
- Custap Lead Skarmory (121.39)
- 4 HP Arceus (121.35)
- Ferrothorn (121.30)
- Gliscor (121.28)
- Chansey with Evolite (121.27)
- Mixed Attacker Giratina-O (121.21)
- Gyarados (121.18)
- Tyranitar (121.15)
119 in Defense Tier
- Choice Scarf Dialga (120.55)
- Baton Pass Mew (120.51)
- Salamence with Intimidate (120.51)
- Trickroom Victini (120.36)
- Offensive Support Cloyster (120.35)
- Specially Defensive Jirachi (120.34)
- Lead Mew (120.34)
- Stallbreaker Heatran (120.34)
- Shell Smash Cloyster (120.30)
- Quagsire (120.29)
- Calm Mind Manaphy (120.29)
- Choice Band Kyurem-B (120.22)
- Choice Scarf Zekrom (120.19)
- Tailwind Zekrom (120.16)
118 in Defense Tier -> Average
- Choice Scarf Kyurem-B (119.95)
- Dual Screens Magnezone (119.86)
- Mixed Zekrom (119.81)
- Trickroom Palkia (119.81)
- Tank Bronzong (119.80)
- Trickroom Bronzong (119.76)
- Bulky Booster Mewtwo (119.72)
- Support (StallTwo) Mewtwo (119.67)
- Tank & Choice Band Ho-Oh (119.65)
- SubCharge Magnezone (119.55)
- Choice Specs Magnezone (119.52)
- SubSD Landorus-T (119.49)
- Choice Specs & Water Gem Lure Kyogre (119.44)
- RestTalk Kyogre (119.41)
- Xatu (119.39)
- Offensive & Bulky Booster Kyogre (119.36)
- Mixed Dialga (119.04)
- Kyurem-W (119.02)
117 in Defense Tier
- Choice Band Landorus-T (118.96)
- Sableye (118.84)
- Mixed & Hone Claws Kyurem-B (118.83)
- Garchomp (118.57)
- Most variants of Reshiram (118.56)
- Choice Band Victini (118.56)
- Choice Scarf Jirachi (118.55)
- Tail Glow Manaphy (118.55)
- Omastar (118.54)
- Choice Scarf Victini (118.52)
- Choice Scarf Heatran (118.51)
- CALCULATED AVERAGE (118.47)
- Choice Scarf Ho-Oh (118.33)
- Defensive Calm Mind Latias (118.32)
- Specially Defensive Latias (118.27)
- Scizor (118.20)
- Blissey (118.13)
- TrickScarf Deoxys-S (118.04)
- Physical Sweeper Ho-Oh (118.00)
- Psycho Killer Mewtwo (118.00)
116 in Defense Tier
- Choice Scarf Mewtwo (117.98)
- Most variants of Palkia (117.91)
- Most variants of Rayquaza (117.89)
- Custap Lead Forretress (117.65)
- Choice Scarf Kyogre (117.63)
- Double Dance Landorus-T (117.62)
- All-Out Attacker Latias (117.62)
- Gastrodon (117.53)
- Flame Charge Reshiram (117.39)
- Dual Screens Latios (117.25)
- Abomasnow (117.24)
- Mamoswine (117.19)
- Hydreigon (117.11)
- Terrakion (117.05)
- Keldeo (117.02)
115 in Defense Tier
- Landorus (116.89)
- Calm Mind Draco Meteor Latias (116.85)
- Mixed Attacker & Mixed Dancer & Choice Scarf Rayquaza (116.76)
- SubSeed Ludicolo (116.70)
- Offensive Pivot Latias (116.69)
- Whimsicott (116.60)
- Dual Screens Deoxys-S (116.43)
- SubSeed Jumpluff (116.26)
- Salamence (116.25)
- Beartic (116.25)
- Kabutops (116.19)
- Bisharp (116.14)
- Special Growth Venusaur (116.12)
- Most variants of Shaymin-S (116.02)
- Tentacruel (116.00)
114 in Defense Tier
- Bulky Excadrill (115.98)
- Special Sweeper Shaymin-S (115.96)
- Support Jumpluff (115.83)
- Mixed Growth Venusaur (115.78)
- Gorebyss (115.78)
- Darkrai (115.59)
- Most variants of Latios (115.29)
- Kingdra (115.27)
- Tornadus-T (115.22)
113 in Defense Tier
- Genesect (114.98)
- Offensive Excadrill (114.80)
- Heracross (114.74)
- Blaziken (114.16)
- Rain Sweeper Ludicolo (114.16)
- Thundurus (114.12)
- Thundurus-T (114.12)
- Tornadus (114.12)
111 in Defense Tier
- Suicide Lead Deoxys-S (113.99)
- Qwilfish (113.65)
- Shiftry (113.57)
- Victreebel (113.55)
- Froslass (113.44)
- Lucario (113.44)
- Deoxys (113.38)
109 in Defense Tier
- Smash Pass Smeargle (111.84)
- Espeon (111.83)
107 in Defense Tier
- Jynx (109.58)
102 in Defense Tier
- Dugtrio (107.77)
Less than 49 in Defense Tier
- Deoxys-A (102.99)
- Shedinja (46.61)
- Lv1 FEAR Smeargle (42.96)
Overall/Mixed Bulk Tier Chart:Above 128 in Defense Tier
127 in Defense Tier
- Chansey with Eviolite (133.20)
- The Great Wall Lugia with Multiscale active (132.42)
- Calm Mind Lugia with Multiscale active (131.83)
- Blissey (130.98)
126 in Defense Tier
- Specially Defensive Latias with Soul Dew (127.83)
- Specially Defensive Giratina (127.37)
- Tank Tyranitar in Sandstorm(127.36)
- 252 HP Arceus-Rock in Sandstorm (127.18)
125 in Defense Tier
- Choice Band Tyranitar in Sandstorm (126.49)
- RestTalk Kyogre (126.24)
124 in Defense Tier
- Defensive Calm Mind Latias with Soul Dew (125.83)
- Support Arceus-Dark (125.80)
- Sun Support Arceus-Water (125.69)
- 4 HP Arceus-Rock in Sandstorm (125.60)
- Dual Screens + Lunar Dance Cresselia (125.48)
- All-Out Attacker Latias with Soul Dew (125.18)
- Tank Ho-Oh (125.15)
- The Great Wall Lugia (125.15)
123 in Defense Tier
- Calm Mind Lugia (124.55)
- Choice Band & Physically Defensive Ho-Oh (124.53)
- Calm Mind Draco Meteor Latias with Soul Dew (124.41)
- Utility Wall Deoxys-D (124.31)
- The Great Wall & Mono-Attacker Giratina (124.31)
- Offensive Pivot Latias with Soul Dew (124.25)
- ChestoRest Giratina (124.24)
- Support Arceus-Grass (124.21)
- Utility Counter Arceus-Psychic (124.04)
122 in Defense Tier
- Tentacruel (123.78)
- Bulk Up + RestTalk Dialga (123.75)
- Specially Defensive Jirachi (123.75)
- Wall Cresselia (123.70)
- Offensive & Bulky Booster Kyogre (123.36)
- Choice Specs & Water Gem Lure Kyogre (123.33)
- Choice Scarf Ho-Oh (123.21)
- Tank Tyranitar (123.12)
- Wobbuffet (123.10)
- Support Ferrothorn (123.04)
121 in Defense Tier
- Baton Pass Mew (122.99)
- Tank Bronzong (122.97)
- Gastrodon (122.94)
- 252 HP Arceus (122.93)
- Physical Sweeper Ho-Oh (122.83)
- Stallbreaker Heatran (122.78)
- Extreme Killer & Bandceus (122.62)
- Agility + Taunt Deoxys-D (122.61)
- RestTalk Giratina-O (122.59)
- SubCM Giratina-O (122.40)
- SubSeed Ludicolo (122.36)
- Most variants of Latios with Soul Dew (122.35)
- Defensive Dialga (122.31)
- Choice Band Tyranitar (122.24)
- Support Giratina-O (122.15)
- Abomasnow (122.08)
120 in Defense Tier
- Arceus-Flying (121.96)
- Choice Scarf Kyogre (121.58)
- Trickroom Palkia (121.40)
- 4 HP Arceus (121.35)
- Terrakion in Sandstorm (121.30)
119 in Defense Tier
- Choice Scarf Kyurem-B (120.89)
- Defensive Heatran (120.59)
- Support (StallTwo) Mewtwo (120.51)
- Special Attacker Dialga (120.29)
- Calm Mind Manaphy (120.29)
- Lead Mew (120.29)
- Choice Band & Substitute + Hone Claws Zekrom (120.29)
- Trickroom Victini (120.27)
- Choice Band Ferrothorn (120.22)
- Reshiram (120.16)
- Swords Dance & Specially Defensive Scizor (120.15)
- Dual Screens Latios (120.09)
- Mixed Attacker Giratina-O (120.09)
- Gyarados (120.00)
- Bulky Excadrill (120.00)
- Choice Specs & Choice-less Kyurem-W (120.00)
AVERAGE 118 in Defense Tier
- Choice Scarf Kyurem-W (119.95)
- Trickroom Bronzong (119.80)
- Bulky Booster Mewtwo (119.67)
- Most variants of Palkia (119.56)
- Whimiscott (119.51)
- Support & Choice Band Groudon (119.36)
- Choice Band Kyurem-B (119.29)
- Mixed Zekrom (119.29)
- Choice Band Scizor (119.18)
- Quagsire (119.10)
- Support Forretress (119.08)
- Paradancer Groudon (119.02)
- Mixed & Hone Claws Kyurem-B (119.02)
117 in Defense Tier
- Choice Scarf Dialga (118.91)
- CALCULATED AVERAGE (118.68)
- Choice Scarf Jirachi (118.55)
- Tail Glow Manaphy (118.55)
- Choice Scarf Zekrom (118.55)
- Mixed Dialga (118.52)
- Choice Band Victini (118.52)
- Choice Scarf Heatran (118.47)
- Support Skarmory (118.43)
- Rock Polish Groudon (118.41)
- Jynx (118.40)
- Choice Band Metagross (118.32)
116 in Defense Tier
- Choice Scarf Mewtwo (117.98)
- Psycho Killer Mewtwo (117.95)
- Hippowdon (117.92)
- Rayquaza (117.89)
- Defensive Landorus-T (117.76)
- Dual Screens Magnezone (117.68)
- Offensive Stealth Rock Groudon (117.62)
- Garchomp (117.60)
- Choice Band Landorus-T (117.56)
- Special Growth Venusaur (117.55)
- TrickScarf Deoxys-S (117.53)
- Support Jumpluff (117.48)
- Choice Scarf Victini (117.39)
- Tailwind Zekrom (117.39)
- SubSD Landorus-T (117.37)
- SubCharge Magnezone (117.37)
- Choice Specs Magnezone (117.34)
- Rain Sweeper Ludicolo (117.24)
- Hydreigon (117.11)
- Keldeo (117.07)
- Terrakion (117.05)
115 in Defense Tier
- Heracross (116.79)
- Double Dance Landorus-T (116.51)
- Gliscor (116.41)
- Kingdra (116.40)
- Dual Screens Deoxys-S (116.38)
- Beartic (116.31)
- SubSeed Jumpluff (116.26)
- Tornadus-T (116.24)
- Genesect (116.10)
- Mixed Growth Venusaur (116.08)
- Most variants of Shaymin-S (116.07)
- Special Sweeper Shaymin-S (116.01)
114 in Defense Tier
- Landorus (115.87)
- Espeon (115.65)
- Darkrai (115.59)
- Offensive Excadrill (115.45)
- Custap Lead Skarmory (115.22)
- Xatu (115.22)
- Thundurus (115.19)
- Thundurus-T (115.19)
- Tornadus (115.19)
- Salamence (115.13)
113 in Defense Tier
- Mamoswine (114.80)
- Blaziken (114.16)
112 in Defense Tier
- Suicide Lead Deoxys-S (113.94)
- Sableye (113.68)
- Shiftry (113.57)
- Froslass (113.44)
- Lucario (113.44)
- Omastar (113.44)
- Bisharp (113.07)
111 in Defense Tier
- Victreebel (112.90)
- Gorebyss (112.84)
- Kabutops (112.63)
110 in Defense Tier
- Qwilfish (111.10)
109 in Defense Tier
- Dugtrio (110.40)
108 in Defense Tier
- Custap Lead Forretress (109.00)
107 in Defense Tier
- Smash Pass Smeargle (108.76)
- Offensive Support Cloyster (108.33)
- Deoxys (108.25)
101 in Defense Tier
- Shell Smash Cloyster (107.15)
Less than 49 in Defense Tiers
- Deoxys-A (101.82)
- Shedinja (48.00)
- Lv 1 FEAR Smeargle (42.96)
The InterpretationAbove 128 in Defense Tier
127 in Defense Tier
- Great Wall Lugia with Multiscale (132.56)
- Calm Mind Lugia with Multiscale (131.06)
125 in Defense Tier
- Chansey with Evolite (127.23)
124 in Defense Tier
- The Great Wall & Mono-Attacker & Specially Defensive Giratina (125.84)
- Great Wall Lugia (125.29)
- Mono Attacker Arceus-Rock in Sandstorm (125.05)
123 in Defense Tier
- Dual Screens + Lunar Dance Cresselia (124.91)
- Wall Cresselia (124.88)
- Blissey (124.56)
- Support Arceus-Dark (124.55)
- Support Arceus-Poison (124.51)
- Sun Support Arceus-Water (124.31)
- Wallceus (124.29)
- Tank Tyranitar in Sandstorm (124.26)
- ChestoRest Giratina (124.24)
122 in Defense Tier
- Physically Defensive Ho-Oh (123.92)
- Choice Band Tyranitar in Sandstorm (123.82)
- Utility Counter Arceus-Fighting (123.80)
- Calm Mind Lugia (123.78)
- Support Arceus-Grass (123.57)
- Utility Counter Arceus-Psychic (123.49)
- Offensive Calm Mind & Swords Dance Arceus-Rock in Sandstorm (123.48)
- Support Arceus-Ground (123.36)
- Specially Defensive Latias with Soul Dew (123.05)
121 in Defense Tier
- Utility Wall Deoxys-D (122.98)
- 252 HP Arceus (122.93)
- Bulk Up + RestTalk Dialga (122.86)
- RestTalk Kyogre (122.83)
- Support Groudon (122.80)
- SubCM Giratina-O (122.79)
- Gyarados with Intimidate (122.72)
- RestTalk Giratina-O (122.64)
- Extreme Killer & Bandceus (122.62)
- Agility + Taunt Deoxys-D (122.50)
- Wobbuffet (122.47)
- Tank Ho-Oh (122.40)
- Support Giratina-O (122.19)
- Support Ferrothorn (122.17)
- Tank Tyranitar (122.13)
- Defensive Dialga (122.12)
- Choice Band Ho-Oh (122.09)
- Defensive Calm Mind Latias (122.08)
- Defensive Heatran (122.05)
- Specially Defensive Jirachi (122.04)
120 in Defense Tier
- Arceus-Flying (121.96)
- Defensive Landorus-T with Intimidate (121.89)
- Baton Pass Mew (121.75)
- Choice Band Tyranitar (121.69)
- Hippowdon (121.64)
- Stallbreaker Heatran (121.56)
- Paradancer Groudon (121.45)
- All-Out Attacker Latias (121.40)
- Choice Specs & Water Gem Lure Kyogre (121.38)
- Specially Defensive Tank Bronzong (121.38)
- Choice Band Groudon (121.38)
- Offensive & Bulky Booster Kyogre (121.36)
- 4 HP Arceus (121.35)
- Special Attacker Dialga (121.12)
- Choice Band & Sub Hone-Claws Zekrom (121.12)
119 in Defense Tier
- Choice Scarf Ho-Oh (120.77)
- Choice Band Ferrothorn (120.76)
- Mixed Attacker Giratina-O (120.65)
- Calm Mind Draco Meteor Latias (120.63)
- Trickroom Palkia (120.60)
- Gyarados (120.59)
- SubSD Landorus-T with Intimidate (120.56)
- Support Forretress (120.54)
- Offensive Pivot Latias (120.47)
- Rock Polish Groudon (120.44)
- Choice Scarf Kyurem-B (120.42)
- Physical Sweeper Ho-Oh (120.41)
- Support Skarmory (120.40)
- Choice Band Landorus-T with intimidate (120.39)
- Lead Mew (120.32)
- Trickroom Victini (120.31)
- Calm Mind Manaphy (120.29)
- Gastrodon (120.24)
- Support (StallTwo) Mewtwo (120.09)
118 Defense Tier
- Metagross (119.89)
- Tentacruel (119.89)
- Trickroom Bronzong (119.78)
- Choice Band Kyurem-B (119.75)
- Defensive Landorus-T (119.76)
- Choice Scarf Dialga (119.73)
- Quagsire (119.70)
- Bulky Booster Mewtwo (119.70)
- Abomasnow (119.66)
- Offensive SR Groudon (119.61)
- Choice Scarf Kyogre (119.61)
- Mixed Zekrom (119.55)
- SubSeed Ludicolo (119.53)
- Choice Specs & Choice-less Kyurem-W (119.51)
- Choice Scarf Kyurem-W (119.49)
- Choice Scarf Zekrom (119.37)
- Most variants of Reshiram (119.36)
- Double Dance Landorus-T with Intimidate (119.19)
- Terrakion in Sandstorm (119.18)
- Swords Dance & Specially Defensive Scizor (119.17)
117 Defense Tier
- Mixed & Hone Claws Kyurem-B (118.92)
- Gliscor (118.85)
- Most variants of Latios with Soul Dew (118.82)
- Mixed Dialga (118.78)
- Flame Charge Reshiram (118.77)
- Tailwind Zekrom (118.77)
- Dual Screens Magnezone (118.77)
- Most variants of Palkia (118.74)
- Choice Band Scizor (118.69)
- Dual Screens Latios (118.67)
- CALCULATED AVERAGE (118.58)
- Choice Scarf Jirachi (118.55)
- Tail Glow Manaphy (118.55)
- Choice Band Victini (118.54)
- Choice Scarf Heatran (118.49)
- SubCharge Magnezone (118.46)
- SubSD Landorus-T (118.43)
- Choice Specs Magnezone (118.43)
- Custap Lead Skarmory (118.31)
- Choice Band Landorus-T (118.26)
- Garchomp (118.09)
- Whimiscott (118.05)
116 Defense Tier
- Bulky Excadrill (117.99)
- Choice Scarf Mewtwo (117.98)
- Psycho Killer Mewtwo (117.97)
- Choice Scarf Victini (117.95)
- Most variants of Rayquaza (117.89)
- Salamence with Intimidate (117.82)
- TrickScarf Deoxys-S (117.79)
- Mixed Attacker & Mixed Dancer & Choice Scarf Rayquaza (117.33)
- Xatu (117.31)
- Hydreigon (117.11)
- Double Dance Landorus-T (117.06)
- Terrakion (117.05)
- Keldeo (117.04)
115 Defense Tier
- Special Growth Venusaur (116.84)
- Support Jumpluff (116.66)
- Dual Screens Deoxys-S (116.41)
- Landorus (116.38)
- Beartic (116.28)
- Sableye (116.26)
- SubSeed Jumpluff (116.26)
- Most variants of Shaymin-S (116.05)
- Mamoswine (116.00)
114 Defense Tier
- Omastar (115.99)
- Special Sweeper Shaymin-S (115.98)
- Mixed Growth Venusaur (115.93)
- Kingdra (115.83)
- Heracross (115.76)
- Tornadus-T (115.73)
- Rain Sweeper Ludicolo (115.70)
- Salamence (115.69)
- Darkrai (115.59)
- Genesect (115.54)
- Offensive Excadrill (115.12)
113 Defense Tier
- Thundurus (114.65)
- Thundurus-T (114.65)
- Tornadus (114.65)
- Bisharp (114.60)
- Kabutops (114.41)
- Offensive Support Cloyster (114.34)
- Gorebyss (114.31)
- Blaziken (114.16)
112 Defense Tier
- Jynx (113.99)
- Suicide Lead Deoxys-S (113.97)
- Espeon (113.74)
- Shell Smash Cloyster (113.73)
- Shiftry (113.57
- Froslass (113.44)
- Lucario (113.44)
- Custap Lead Forretress (113.33)
- Victreebel (113.22)
110 Defense Tier
- Qwilfish (112.37)
109 Defense Tier
- Deoxys (110.82)
- Smash Pass Smeargle (110.30)
102 Defense Tier
- Dugtrio (109.09)
Less than 49 Defense Tier
- Deoxys-A (102.40)
- Shedinja (47.31)
- Lv. 1 FEAR Smeargle (42.96)
With just a mere glance, these charts provide a quick and easy method for comparing the numerical bulk of one Pokemon to another. Just take two relevant Defense Tiers and note their values; whichever has the greater value has the stronger defensive capability in general. However, a little more effort may be required to gleam other information.
For those who wish to find an accurate adjective to describe the numerical bulk of a Pokemon in accordance with the Defense Tiers, the following chart will allow easy comparison.
Ranking Chart:
Simply take the relevant Defense Tier of the Pokemon in question and then match it up with the relevant number in the chart to obtain the desired adjective. More accurate sentences which detail the numerical bulk of Pokemon used in the Uber tier can possibly be created as follows:Until the scroll tags are fixed said:Defense Tier ------------------ Descriptive Adjective
>128 -------------------- Ridiculous, Ludicrous, Insane, etc.
127 ---------------------- Titanic, Outstanding, Exceptional, etc.
126 ---------------------- Incredible, Massive, Very High, etc.
125 ---------------------- Fantastic, Terrific, High, etc.
124 ---------------------- Excellent, Admirable, etc.
123 ---------------------- Great, Wonderful, etc.
122 ---------------------- Sound, Very Good, Nice etc.
121 ---------------------- Good, Respectable, etc.
120 ---------------------- Reasonable, Fair, Okay, etc.
119 ---------------------- Decent, Passable, Modest, etc.
118 -------------------- Average
117 ---------------------- Mediocre, Lacking, etc.
116 ---------------------- Low, etc.
115 ---------------------- Poor, Subpar, etc.
114 ---------------------- Bad, Very Poor, etc.
113 ---------------------- Paltry, etc.
112 ---------------------- Lousy, etc.
111 ---------------------- Very Bad, etc.
110 ---------------------- Awful, etc.
109 ---------------------- Dreadful, etc.
108 ---------------------- Terrible, Horrible, etc.
107 ---------------------- Laughable, Horrendous etc.
101-102 ----------------- Pathetic, Practically Non-Existent, Garbage, etc.
<49 ---------------------- Troll, Not Applicable, etc.
For those who prefer a numerical analysis between the numerical bulk of two Pokemon, the Defense Tiers themselves will prove crucial.Random Member said:The boost Chansey gets from Evolite is so helpful. I mean, standard Chansey has around the same amount of physical bulk numerically as Support Ferrothorn; they are both quite good. This means an attack such as Ho-Oh's Brave Bird hits them for very similar damage.
REASON: The Defense Tiers for both Pokemon match up to "good" in the Ranking Chart. 121.27 is for Chansey; 121.30 is for Ferrothorn.
Because the Defense Tiers were calculated using the logarithmic scale base 1.1, a difference of 1 Defense Tier corresponds to a general 10% difference in the ability to take damage.
For instance, a Pokemon in Defense Tier 127 would generally take around 10% more damage than Defense Tier 127+1 = 128, yet would generally take around 10% less damage than Defense Tier 127-1 = 126. Around the same amount of damage would be taken when compared to another Pokemon in Defense Tier 127.
For those who desire a more specific comparison, a little arithmetic may be required. An equation for a quick estimation of percent difference is as follows:
If you wish for a more accurate percent difference value, the following equation might prove useful:Random Member said:In fact, Wallceus has a Physical Defense Tier score of 125.66. Great Wall Lugia has a Physical Defense Tier score of 125.43.
The tier difference is 125.66-125.43 = 0.23. 1.1^0.23 = 1.0222. 1.0222-1 = 0.0222. 0.0222*100 = 2.22%.
Therefore, Wallceus generally takes physical hits around 2.22% better than Great Wall Lugia.
It is to be noted though that looking at the big picture is quite important when calculating these percent difference values. Many player would probably be content with just an approximate value. There is also a bit of already existing uncertainty with the entire Defense Tier system due to their crude method of obtainment. Still, it doesn't hurt to provide a more accurate percent difference value every once in a while.Random Member said:In fact, Wallceus has a Physical Defense Tier score of 125.66 (Defense Tier A). Great Wall Lugia has a Physical Defense Tier score of 125.43 (Defense Tier B).
Absolute value of 1.1^125.66-1.1^125.43 is around 3447.63. (1.1^125.66+1.1^125.43)/2 is around 157279.00. Based on these values, percent difference = 3447.63/157279.00*100 = 2.19%.
Therefore, Wallceus generally takes physical hits around 2.19% better than Great Wall Lugia.
The Beginnings of a New Analysis - Your Turn
Through the interpretation of the raw data obtained through the Defense Tiers, we are now in a position to dive into the heart of the matter. What really defines "bulk" in Ubers?
This question may prove more difficult than it might seem. Conceivably, a look into the Defense Tiers themselves to see which Pokemon outright are notable for their numerical bulk might work. Yet if such an approach were made, we might fail to recognize the Pokemon which use other strengths to overcome their otherwise inadequate numerical bulk.
Take for example Skarmory. Skarmory is clearly inferior when compared to an Uber titan such as Lugia in essentially all regards numerically. Yet Skarmory has an extraordinary useful defensive typing, and carries valuable utility in Taunt, Spikes, and much more. Clearly, the bulk score isn't everything by itself.
There are so many factors to be taken into account for bulk. Entry hazard susceptibility, resistances, weaknesses; all of these factors are incredibly important in the Uber metagame. Luckily, there is a method for taking these modifications into account.
The special modification chart using Dragontamer's efforts as a base is as follows:
Code:
4x weak : -14.27 (EX: Ice Attacks Dragon/Flying)
2x weak : -7.27 (EX: Fire Attacks Grass, 4x Stealth Rock weak)
-25% : -3.02 (3x Spikes, 2x Stealth Rock weak)
-18.75% : -2.18 (2x Spikes)
-12.5% : -1.40 (1x Spikes, neutral Stealth Rock)
-6.25% : -0.68 (2x resist Stealth Rock)
-3.125% : -0.33 (4x resist Stealth Rock)
+50% : 4.25 (Calm Mind, Bulk Up, etc.)
+100% : 7.27 (Amnesia, Barrier, Reflect, Not Very Effective, etc.)
+150% : 9.61 (3x Calm Mind / etc. etc.)
+200% : 11.53 (2x Amnesia, etc.)
+250% : 13.14 (5x Calm Mind / etc. etc.)
+300% : 14.55 (Max Amnesia/Barrier, 4x Resists, etc.)
When using this modification list, take the relevant Defense Tier in question and then add/subtract the desired bonus. For instance:
Still, a focus on just the Defensive typing and Defense Tiers might prove too limiting for our answer. Movepool, offense, Speed, utility - many intrinsic factors come together to define the use of bulk for a Pokemon. It is in this sense that perhaps only an interdisciplinary approach can truly bring about a solution for our problem.Random Member said:Skarmory takes an ExtremeSpeed from Bandceus so much better than Wallceus. I mean, look at the Defense Tiers!
Wallceus = 125.66
Skarmory = 122.37
Wallceus might have greater physical bulk numerically, but Skarmory has a resistance to ExtremeSpeed. This must be taken into account.
122.37 + 7.27 = 129.64
Skarmory = 129.64
Wallceus = 125.66
...Skarmory > Wallceus?
If you are interested, please take a look at the Uber Threat List. More specifically, the Defensive Threats. Are they any connections between that list and the Defense Tiers? What kind of Pokemon are on these lists? Utility? Niche? Overwhelming bulk?
Please take a look at the Offensive Threats after. Do you notice any patterns between the list and the Defense Tiers? Is there a certain "balance" between bulk and offense that distinguishes one Pokemon from the next? External factors? Movepool?
For example, you might notice that some Pokemon such as Deoxys-A who are typically associated with offense are not in Tier 1. Why is this the case? Is there a certain "threshold" in bulk that must be achieved in order to truly distinguish the great Pokemon from the rest?
Likewise, what defines an acceptable bulk for a defensive Pokemon? What is the bare minimum Defense Tier that a bulky Pokemon may lower itself before it becomes useless? How much of a "balance" is required?
Of course, analyzing the Defense Tiers themselves might bear some fruit. What misconceptions do we currently have about the numerical bulk of certain Pokemon? Conversely, when were we correct?
For instance, Chansey with her Evolite has always been associated with an increased Physical Defense when compared to Blissey. But have you tried comparing her physical bulk with the rest of the Uber tier? A quick glance into the charts reveal that standard Chansey is quite similar in physical bulk to Pokemon that we typically associate with good Physical Defense, such as standard Gliscor and support Ferrothorn. This isn't even the end of it though, as a full Physically Defensive Chansey actually has a Defense Tier of 123.16. To put this into perspective, Chansey actually has more physical bulk than physically defensive Kyogre and 252 HP Arceus! Clearly, there are many surprises to be found within the data.
Final Thoughts
When one really stops to reflect about the data provided from this resource, you might realize that there are many ways to interpret this information. Maybe you will try identifying key trends and connections between this resource and the others. Maybe you will use this data to supplement your own posts when you start to describe bulk. And of course, maybe you will focus on finding information that you personally find interesting. It matters not though; it's really up to you to determine how best you will use it. But no matter the path you eventually embark on, I hope this resource proves useful as we all strive together to better understand the Uber metagame as we know it today.
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