[MnM] Zapdos

nv

The Lost Age
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QC: 2/2
GP 1/2


Overview

Zapdos is one of the best defensive Pokemon in Mix and Mega due to its semi-unique typing and a great set of resistances. It is also the premier defensive -ate check in the metagame thanks to Venusaurite giving it a Ice neutrality as well as its Electric typing giving it a Flying resistance. Furthermore, Zapdos gains a Fire resistance, which allows it to take on threats such as Primal Groudon and Pinsirite Entei. Zapdos also only has one weakness once it Mega Evolves, giving it a great amount of staying power on any balance- or defensive-minded team. While Zapdos does have a lot going for it, it is also very prepared for the Pokemon it checks such as Primal Groudon carrying Rock-type coverage to bypass it. Zapdos also has a somewhat paltry base 100 Speed that allows it to outspeed walls, but it is slower than offensive threats that can overwhelm Zapdos and its team.

Defensive
Zapdos @ Venusaurite / Sablenite
Ability: Pressure
EVs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD
Bold Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Roost
- Defog
- Volt Switch / Thunderbolt
- Toxic

Set Comments

Moves

Roost allows Zapdos to keep itself healthy throughout the game while also getting rid of its one weakness, in exchange for another, for one turn. Defog allows Zapdos to support the team by getting rid of entry hazards on its side of the field. The STAB move of choice depends on what team Zapdos is on. If you want to be able to gain momentum, Volt Switch is a really solid option that allows Zapdos to pivot throughout the game, whereas Thunderbolt hits harder and allows Zapdos to stay in if necessary. Toxic is the best option Zapdos has for its last moveslot, as it allows it to cripple Ground-types such as Zygarde and Primal Groudon while also nailing non-Sablenite walls. Hidden Power Ice can be a good option as well, since it can force out Pokemon that try to set up on it such as Zygarde-C.

Set Details

Venusaurite gives Zapdos a Fire resistance while also neutralizing its Ice weakness, leaving it with only a Rock-type weakness, making it very hard to take down especially with its access to reliable recovery in Roost. Sablenite is also a very viable option, as it gives a better bulk increase, grants an immunity to status moves such as Toxic and Taunt from non-Gyaradosite users, and allows for a slower Volt Switch to bring in frailer threats such as Weavile and Pheromosa. 248 HP EVs give Zapdos an uneven HP number, allowing it to switch into Stealth Rock four times rather than three. Maximum Defense EVs allow Zapdos to take on common -ate Pokemon such as Genesect a lot easier as well as being able to make better use of its resistances. The rest is dumped into Special Defense to give Zapdos a bit of a boost to its special bulk. A Bold nature further bolsters Zapdos's Defense stat.

Usage Tips

Zapdos should be used as a bulky pivot that can utilize its somewhat unique resistances to cripple or pivot out on Primal Groudon, Pheromosa, and Genesect. Zapdos needs to watch out for random, albeit uncommon, coverage from these Pokemon, as some of them tend to carry Rock-type moves. Zapdos should be wary of which moves it uses, as Sablenite users can cripple it by bouncing back Toxic, while Ground-types can block its STAB move, allowing them to drain all the momentum Zapdos has gained. Switching into Stealth Rock users is best, as Zapdos can't check as many Pokemon with it up, and with Sablenite, it can even bounce it back. Try and switch out whenever a Pokemon tries to status Zapdos, as it can be worn down a lot easier.

Team Options

U-turn and Volt Switch users such as Pheromosa and Magearna provide a very solid VoltTurn core to allow the team to gain momentum with ease and wear down the foe. Pheromosa is good in particular, since it can hit special walls while Zapdos can cripple Pheromosa's checks such as Arceus-Ghost and Toxapex. Special walls such as Sablenite Blissey complement Zapdos's weaker defensive stat. Blissey's only weakness is also resisted by Zapdos, making them a really solid defensive core in the metagame. Furthermore, Blissey can help Zapdos with entry hazard control thanks to Magic Bounce and get rid of status via Heal Bell. Steel-types such as Jirachi and Arceus-Steel are wonderful partners for Zapdos as well due to it offering up a Fighting- and Fire-type resistance while also having a Ground immunity. Steel-types can also absorb Toxic aimed at Zapdos while tanking Rock-type moves, helping to keep status at bay. Other -ate checks such as Magearna, Skarmory, and Celesteela can ease pressure off of Zapdos, allowing it to be more effective as a pivot and as a wall. Heal Bell users such as Blissey can help Zapdos steer clear of status. Primal Groudon checks such as Zygarde-C and Arceus-Ground can be very good partners for Zapdos, as they not only help relieve pressure off of Zapdos (which has to worry about Stone Edge unlike them two), but also appreciate Zapdos's ability to wear down the opponent's bulkier Pokemon with Toxic or by pivoting into them. Lastly, setup sweepers such as Manaphy and Terrakion appreciate Zapdos's ability to wall threats such as Kartana, paving the way for them to sweep.

Strategy Comments

Other Options


Heat Wave is a nice option for the guaranteed OHKO on Kartana, but Zapdos can still wall Kartana without it, as it has pitiful Special Defense and is 2HKOed by Thunderbolt after Stealth Rock. Roar is a neat option that allows Zapdos to phaze potential threats trying to take advantage of it such as Swords Dance Primal Groudon and Dragon Dance Zygarde. Blue Orb is a neat option to completely shut down Primal Groudon, but it still has access to Rock-type coverage to overpower Zapdos. Discharge is a viable option that allows Zapdos to further support the team with paralysis support, but Volt Switch and Thunderbolt provide more reliability via their momentum grabbing or power.

Checks and Counters

**Magic Bounce Users**: Blissey and Cresselia can tank Zapdos's STAB moves and, in the case of Cresselia, can even set up as they bounce back Toxic thanks to Sablenite.

**Rock-types**: Terrakion and Arceus-Rock have access to very powerful STAB moves to plow through Zapdos and can even set up Stealth Rock or Swords Dance as they force Zapdos out.

**Ground-types**: Primal Groudon and Zygarde are immune to Zapdos's main STAB move; the former carries Stone Edge to nail it and the latter has access to Thousand Arrows, which can hit Zapdos despite its Flying typing. They both can also threaten Zapdos whenever it uses Roost due to its primary Electric typing.

**Toxic**: Toxic can cripple Zapdos, as it has no passive recovery and can only use Roost so much before poison damage does more than it recovers.

**Stealth Rock**: With Zapdos being part Flying-type, Stealth Rock cuts into Zapdos's above-average bulk and makes it have a harder time checking the threats it needs to.
 
Last edited:

QC: 0/2

Overview

  • Zapdos is one of the best defensive Pokemon in Mix and Mega due to its semi-unique typing and a great set of resistances.
  • It is also the premier defensive -Ate check in the metagame thanks to Venusaurite giving it a Ice neutrality as well as its Electric typing giving it a Flying resistance.
  • Furthermore, it gains a Fire resistance, which allows it to take on threats such as Primal Groudon and Pinsirite Entei. Zapdos also only has one weakness once it Mega Evolves, bolstered? by reliable recovery in Roost, giving it a great amount of staying power on any balance or defensively-minded team. The weakness isn't bolstered by recovery? Unsure what you mean here.
  • While Zapdos does have a lot going for it, Zapdos is also very prepared for with the Pokemon it checks such as Primal Groudon and Aerilate users such as Dragonite and Cobalion carrying Rock-type coverage to bypass it. Cobalion doesn't carry rock type coverage, and doesn't win if it does, as a better example
  • Zapdos also has a somewhat paltry base 100 Speed that allows it to outspeed walls, but is slower than offensive threats that can overwhelm Zapds and its team.

Defensive
Zapdos @ Venusaurite / Sablenite
Ability: Pressure
EVs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD
Bold Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Roost
- Defog

- Volt Switch / Thunderbolt
- Toxic

Set Comments

Moves Swap these to match new set order
  • The STAB move of choice depends on what team Zapdos is on. If you wanna be able to gain momentum, Volt Switch is a really solid option that allows Zapdos to pivot throughout the game whereas Thunderbolt can hit harder and allows Zapdos to stay in if necessary.
  • Roost allows Zapdos to keep itself healthy throughout the game while also getting rid of its one weakness, in exchange for another, for one turn.
  • Defog allows Zapdos to support the team by getting rid of entry hazards on its side of the field.
  • Toxic is the best option Zapdos has for its last moveslot as it allows it to cripple Ground-types such as Zygarde and Primal Groudon while also nailing non-Sablenite walls.
  • Roar can be a good option as well since it can force out Pokemon that try to set up on it such as Zygarde-Complete or Primal Groudon. Hidden Power Ice

Set Details
  • Venusaurite gives Zapdos a Fire resistance while also neutralizing its Ice weakness, leaving it with only a Rock-type weakness, making it very hard to take down especially with its access to reliable recovery in Roost. Sablenite is also a very viable option as it gives a better bulk increase, immunity to status moves such as Toxic and Taunt from non-Gyaradosite users, and allows for a slower Volt Switch to bring in frailer threats such as Weavile and Pheromosa. mention the increased defense
  • 248 HP EVs givs Zapdos an uneven HP number, allowing it to switch in 4 times with Stealth Rock on the field rather than 3 times. Maximum Defense EVs allows Zapdos to take on common -ate Pokemon such as Dragonite and Genesect a lot easier as well as being able to make better use of its resistances. The rest is dumped into Special Defense to give Zapdos a bit of a boost to its special bulk. it's 8, dont mention it
  • A Bold nature further bolsters Zapdos's Defense stat.

Usage Tips
  • Zapdos should be used as a bulky pivot that can abuse its somewhat unique resistances to cripple or pivot out on Primal Groudon, Dragonite, and Genesect. Pheromosa here please, major benefit to zapdos
  • Zapdos needs to watch out for random coverage from these Pokemon as they tend to carry Rock-type coverage. Genesect never does, and mention its somewhat uncommon
  • Zapdos should be wary of which move it wants to use as Sablenite users can cripple it by bouncing back Toxic while Ground-types can block its STAB move, allowing them to drain all the momentum Zapdos has gained.
  • Mention switching it into rocks setters because it finds it har to check things with them up
  • Give some mention of switching out of toxic/etc

Team Options
  • U-turn and Volt Switch users such as Pheromosa and Magearna provide a very solid VoltTurn core to allow the team to gain momentum with ease and wear down the opponent. Pheromosa is good in particular since it can hit special walls for Zapdos while Zapdos can cripple Pheromosa's checks such as Arceus-Ghost and Toxapex.
  • Special walls such as Sablenite Blissey complement Zapdos's weaker defensive stat. Blissey's only weakness is also resisted by Zapdos, making them a really solid defensive core in the metagame. Furthermore, Blissey can help Zapdos with entry hazard control thanks to Magic Bounce and get rid of status via Heal Bell.
  • Steel-types such as Jirachi and Arceus-Steel are wonderful partners for Zapdos as well due to it offering up a Fighting- and Fire-type resistance while also having a Ground immunity. Steel-types can also absorb Toxic aimed at Zapdos and take rock-type attacks, helping to keep status at bay.
  • Other -ate checks
  • Status curers
  • Reliable PDon checks

Strategy Comments

Other Options

  • Roar here
  • Sablenite
  • Blue Orb for Pdon (thunder)
  • Heat Wave for kartana? Up to you.

Checks and Counters

**Ground-types**: Primal Groudon and Zygarde are immune to Zapdos's main STAB move while the former carries Stone Edge to nail it and Zygarde has access to Thousand Arrows which can hit Zapdos despite it being Flying-type. also while it roosts

**Magic Bounce Users**: Blissey and Cresselia can tank Zapdos's STAB moves and, in the case of Cresselia, can even set up as they bounce back Toxic thanks to Sablenite. put this above ground types

**Rock-types**: Terrakion and Arceus-Rock have access to very powerful STAB moves to plow through Zapdos and can even set up as it forces it out. or set rocks and prevent it from defogging, put this in the second slot

**Status**: Toxic and Will-o-Wisp can cripple Zapdos as it has no passive recovery and it can only use Roost so much before Toxic damage does more than it recovers. wisp is honestly not that big of an issue because it blocks toxic, focus on the first

**Stealth Rock**: With Zapdos being part Flying-type, Stealth Rock cuts into Zapdos's above-average bulk and makes it have a harder time checking the threats it needs to.
Nice work, 1/2
 
Last edited:
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Implemented everything except for Sablenite in OO since it is slashed on the set (and mentioned in Set Details as well). Unless you meant another stone :x
Yes, I mean blue orb sorry, fixed. Being able to switch into support don for free means you don't need to read with roost vs blades and helps with coming in on SR. It's definitely just OO, but it has a solid niche.
 
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QC: 1/2

Overview

  • Zapdos is one of the best defensive Pokemon in Mix and Mega due to its semi-unique typing and a great set of resistances.
  • It is also the premier defensive -Ate check in the metagame thanks to Venusaurite giving it a Ice neutrality as well as its Electric typing giving it a Flying resistance.
  • Furthermore, it gains a Fire resistance, which allows it to take on threats such as Primal Groudon and Pinsirite Entei. Zapdos also only has one weakness once it Mega Evolves, giving it a great amount of staying power on any balance or defensively-minded team.
  • While Zapdos does have a lot going for it, Zapdos is also very prepared for with the Pokemon it checks such as Primal Groudon and Aerilate users such as Dragonite carrying Rock-type coverage to bypass it.
  • Zapdos also has a somewhat paltry base 100 Speed that allows it to outspeed walls, but is slower than offensive threats that can overwhelm Zapds and its team.

Defensive
Zapdos @ Venusaurite / Sablenite
Ability: Pressure
EVs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD
Bold Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Roost
- Defog
- Volt Switch / Thunderbolt
- Toxic

Set Comments

Moves
  • Roost allows Zapdos to keep itself healthy throughout the game while also getting rid of its one weakness, in exchange for another, for one turn.
  • Defog allows Zapdos to support the team by getting rid of entry hazards on its side of the field.
  • The STAB move of choice depends on what team Zapdos is on. If you wanna be able to gain momentum, Volt Switch is a really solid option that allows Zapdos to pivot throughout the game whereas Thunderbolt can hit harder and allows Zapdos to stay in if necessary.
  • Toxic is the best option Zapdos has for its last moveslot as it allows it to cripple Ground-types such as Zygarde and Primal Groudon while also nailing non-Sablenite walls.
  • Hidden Power Ice can be a good option as well since it can force out Pokemon that try to set up on it such as Zygarde-Complete.

Set Details
  • Venusaurite gives Zapdos a Fire resistance while also neutralizing its Ice weakness, leaving it with only a Rock-type weakness, making it very hard to take down especially with its access to reliable recovery in Roost. Sablenite is also a very viable option as it gives a better bulk increase, immunity to status moves such as Toxic and Taunt from non-Gyaradosite users, and allows for a slower Volt Switch to bring in frailer threats such as Weavile and Pheromosa.
  • 248 HP EVs givs Zapdos an uneven HP number, allowing it to switch in 4 times with Stealth Rock on the field rather than 3 times. Maximum Defense EVs allows Zapdos to take on common -ate Pokemon such as Dragonite and Genesect a lot easier as well as being able to make better use of its resistances. The rest is dumped into Special Defense to give Zapdos a bit of a boost to its special bulk.
  • A Bold nature further bolsters Zapdos's Defense stat.

Usage Tips
  • Zapdos should be used as a bulky pivot that can abuse its somewhat unique resistances to cripple or pivot out on Primal Groudon, Dragonite, Pheromosa, and Genesect.
  • Zapdos needs to watch out for random coverage from these Pokemon as some of them tend to carry Rock-type moves albeit uncommon.
  • Zapdos should be wary of which move it wants to use as Sablenite users can cripple it by bouncing back Toxic while Ground-types can block its STAB move, allowing them to drain all the momentum Zapdos has gained.
  • Switching into Pokemon who set up SR is best as it can't check as many things with them up and with Sablenite it can even bounce them back. Try and switch out whenever a Pokemon tries to status Zapdos as it really hates being statused as it can be worn down a lot easier.

Team Options
  • U-turn and Volt Switch users such as Pheromosa and Magearna provide a very solid VoltTurn core to allow the team to gain momentum with ease and wear down the opponent. Pheromosa is good in particular since it can hit special walls for Zapdos while Zapdos can cripple Pheromosa's checks such as Arceus-Ghost and Toxapex.
  • Special walls such as Sablenite Blissey complement Zapdos's weaker defensive stat. Blissey's only weakness is also resisted by Zapdos, making them a really solid defensive core in the metagame. Furthermore, Blissey can help Zapdos with entry hazard control thanks to Magic Bounce and get rid of status via Heal Bell.
  • Steel-types such as Jirachi and Arceus-Steel are wonderful partners for Zapdos as well due to it offering up a Fighting- and Fire-type resistance while also having a Ground immunity. Steel-types can also absorb Toxic aimed at Zapdos, while tanking Rock-type moves, helping to keep status at bay.
  • Other -ate checks such as Magearna, Skarmory, and Celesteela can ease pressure off of Zapdos, allowing it to be more effective as a pivot and as a wall.
  • Heal Bell users such as Blissey can help Zapdos steer clear of being status.
  • Primal Groudon checks such as Zygarde-Complete and Arceus-Ground can be very good partners for Zapdos as they not only help relieve pressure off of Zapdos (who has to worry about Stone Edge unlike them two), but both appreciate Zapdos's ability to wear down the opponent's bulkier Pokemon with Toxic or pivoting into them.

Strategy Comments

Other Options

  • Roar
  • Blue Orb
  • Discharge
  • Heat Wave for Kartana

Checks and Counters

**Magic Bounce Users**: Blissey and Cresselia can tank Zapdos's STAB moves and, in the case of Cresselia, can even set up as they bounce back Toxic thanks to Sablenite.

**Rock-types**: Terrakion and Arceus-Rock have access to very powerful STAB moves to plow through Zapdos and can even set up Stealth Rock or Swords Dance as they force Zapdos out.

**Ground-types**: Primal Groudon and Zygarde are immune to Zapdos's main STAB move while the former carries Stone Edge to nail it and Zygarde has access to Thousand Arrows which can hit Zapdos despite it being Flying-type. They both can also threatenZapdos whenever it uses Roost due to its primary Electric-typing.

**Status**: Toxic can cripple Zapdos as it has no passive recovery and it can only use Roost so much before poison damage does more than it recovers.

**Stealth Rock**: With Zapdos being part Flying-type, Stealth Rock cuts into Zapdos's above-average bulk and makes it have a harder time checking the threats it needs to.
Not QC or anything, but as of recently, Zapdos can be brought over from the VC versions of RBY with its hidden ability, Static. Is it still worth having Pressure?

Edit: nvm, it loses Defog if it's transferred. Disregard what I said
 
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Sobi

Banned deucer.
Now I'm very confused. The previous policy (and judging by this post the current policy was to only write up after 2 QC checks.
i could be wrong so don't quote me on this, but (i thought) analyses need to be written up before the last check; so for analyses that require three checks, that's after the second check, and for analyses that require two checks, that's after the first check.
 

InfernapeTropius11

get on my level
General: remove all mentions of dnite and i'd also remove all mentions of phero, although you can wait for the suspect to end (not sure what the protocol is for this type of situation)

Team Options
Mention mons such as Manaphy and Terrakion that appreciate Zapdos' ability to check Kartana.

Other Options
Mention Heat Wave first, as it is the best due to being able to OHKO Kartana, which it needs if Kartana set up on the switch and is running Return (which many do).

Other than that this looks really good,
QC 2/2
 
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nv

The Lost Age
is a Community Contributor Alumnusis a Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Media Contributor Alumnusis a Battle Simulator Staff Alumnus
General: remove all mentions of dnite and i'd also remove all mentions of phero, although you can wait for the suspect to end (not sure what the protocol is for this type of situation)

Team Options
Mention mons such as Manaphy and Terrakion that appreciate Zapdos' ability to check Kartana.

Other Options
Mention Heat Wave first, as it is the best due to being able to OHKO Kartana, which it needs if Kartana set up on the switch and is running Return (which many do).

Other than that this looks really good,
QC 2/2
Implemented everything barring the Pheromosa mentions as while it may be obvious it is getting the boot, it hasn't been officially announced and hence it seems "premature" to remove them. They can be removed later if this ends up still being worked on whenever the Phero suspect ends.

Anyways, this is ready for GP :)
 

Sobi

Banned deucer.
Additions
Removals
Comments
Overview

Zapdos is one of the best defensive Pokemon in Mix and Mega due to its semi-unique typing and a great set of resistances. It is also the premier defensive -Ate -ate check in the metagame thanks to Venusaurite giving it a Ice neutrality as well as its Electric typing giving it a Flying resistance. Furthermore, it gains a Fire resistance, which allows it to take on threats such as Primal Groudon and Pinsirite Entei. Zapdos also only has one weakness once it Mega Evolves, giving it a great amount of staying power on any balance balance- or defensively-minded defensive-minded team. While Zapdos does have a lot going for it, Zapdos it is also very prepared for with the Pokemon it checks such as Primal Groudon carrying Rock-type coverage to bypass it. Zapdos also has a somewhat paltry base 100 Speed that allows it to outspeed walls, but it is slower than offensive threats that can overwhelm Zapdos and its team.

Defensive
Zapdos @ Venusaurite / Sablenite
Ability: Pressure
EVs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD
Bold Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Roost
- Defog
- Volt Switch / Thunderbolt
- Toxic

Set Comments

Moves

Roost allows Zapdos to keep itself healthy throughout the game while also getting rid of its one weakness, in exchange for another, for one turn. Defog allows Zapdos to support the team by getting rid of entry hazards on its side of the field. The STAB move of choice depends on what team Zapdos is on. If you wanna want to be able to gain momentum, Volt Switch is a really solid option that allows Zapdos to pivot throughout the game game, whereas Thunderbolt can hit hits harder and allows Zapdos to stay in if necessary. Toxic is the best option Zapdos has for its last moveslot moveslot, as it allows it to cripple Ground-types such as Zygarde and Primal Groudon while also nailing non-Sablenite walls. Hidden Power Ice can be a good option as well well, since it can force out Pokemon that try to set up on it such as Zygarde-Complete. Zygarde-C.

Set Details

Venusaurite gives Zapdos a Fire resistance while also neutralizing its Ice weakness, leaving it with only a Rock-type weakness, making it very hard to take down especially with its access to reliable recovery in Roost. Sablenite is also a very viable option option, as it gives a better bulk increase, gives an immunity to status moves such as Toxic and Taunt from non-Gyaradosite users, and allows for a slower Volt Switch to bring in frailer threats such as Weavile and Pheromosa. 248 HP EVs givs give Zapdos an uneven HP number, allowing it to switch in 4 four times with Stealth Rock on the field rather than 3 three times. Maximum Defense EVs allows allow Zapdos to take on common -ate Pokemon such as Genesect a lot easier as well as being able to make better use of its resistances. The rest is dumped into Special Defense to give Zapdos a bit of a boost to its special bulk. A Bold nature further bolsters Zapdos's Defense stat.

Usage Tips

Zapdos should be used as a bulky pivot that can abuse utilize its somewhat unique resistances to cripple or pivot out on Primal Groudon, Pheromosa, and Genesect. Zapdos needs to watch out for random random, albeit uncommon, coverage from these Pokemon Pokemon, as some of them tend to carry Rock-type moves moves. albeit uncommon. Zapdos should be wary of which move it wants to use use, as Sablenite users can cripple it by bouncing back Toxic while Ground-types can block its STAB move, allowing them to drain all the momentum Zapdos has gained. Switching into Stealth Rock users Pokemon who set up Stealth Rock is best best, as it Zapdos can't check as many things Pokemon with them up and with Sablenite it can even bounce them back. Try and switch out whenever a Pokemon tries to status Zapdos Zapdos, as it really hates being statused as it can be worn down a lot easier.

Team Options

U-turn and Volt Switch users such as Pheromosa and Magearna provide a very solid VoltTurn core to allow the team to gain momentum with ease and wear down the opponent. foe. Pheromosa is good in particular particular, since it can hit special walls for Zapdos while Zapdos can cripple Pheromosa's checks such as Arceus-Ghost and Toxapex. Special walls such as Sablenite Blissey complement Zapdos's weaker defensive stat. Blissey's only weakness is also resisted by Zapdos, making them a really solid defensive core in the metagame. Furthermore, Blissey can help Zapdos with entry hazard control thanks to Magic Bounce and get rid of status via Heal Bell. Steel-types such as Jirachi and Arceus-Steel are wonderful partners for Zapdos as well due to it offering up a Fighting- and Fire-type resistance while also having a Ground immunity. Steel-types can also absorb Toxic aimed at Zapdos, Zapdos while tanking Rock-type moves, helping to keep status at bay. Other -ate checks such as Magearna, Skarmory, and Celesteela can ease pressure off of Zapdos, allowing it to be more effective as a pivot and as a wall. Heal Bell users such as Blissey can help Zapdos steer clear of being status. Primal Groudon checks such as Zygarde-Complete Zygarde-C and Arceus-Ground can be very good partners for Zapdos Zapdos, as they not only help relieve pressure off of Zapdos (who (which has to worry about Stone Edge unlike them two), but both also appreciate Zapdos's ability to wear down the opponent's bulkier Pokemon with Toxic or by pivoting into them. Lastly, setup sweepers such as Manaphy and Terrakion appreciate Zapdos' Zapdos's ability to wall threats such as Kartana, paving the way for them to sweep.

Strategy Comments

Other Options

Heat Wave is a nice option for the guaranteed OHKO on Kartana, but Zapdos can still wall Kartana w/o without it it, as it has pitiful Special Defense and is 2HKOed by Thunderbolt after Stealth Rock. Roar is a neat option that allows Zapdos to phaze out potential threats trying to take advantage of it such as Swords Dance Primal Groudon or and Dragon Dance Zygarde. Blue Orb is a neat option to completely shut down Primal Groudon, but it still has access to Rock-type coverage to overpower Zapdos. Discharge is a viable option that allows Zapdos to further support the team with paralysis support, but Volt Switch and Thunderbolt provide more reliability via their momentum grabbing or power.

Checks and Counters

**Magic Bounce Users**: Blissey and Cresselia can tank Zapdos's STAB moves and, in the case of Cresselia, can even set up as they bounce back Toxic thanks to Sablenite.

**Rock-types**: Terrakion and Arceus-Rock have access to very powerful STAB moves to plow through Zapdos and can even set up Stealth Rock or Swords Dance as they force Zapdos out.

**Ground-types**: Primal Groudon and Zygarde are immune to Zapdos's main STAB move while the former carries Stone Edge to nail it and Zygarde the latter has access to Thousand Arrows Arrows, which can hit Zapdos despite it being Flying-type. its Flying typing. They both can also threatenZapdos threaten Zapdos whenever it uses Roost due to its primary Electric-typing. Electric typing.

**Status**: Toxic can cripple Zapdos Zapdos, as it has no passive recovery and it can only use Roost so much before poison damage does more than it recovers.

**Stealth Rock**: With Zapdos being part Flying-type, Stealth Rock cuts into Zapdos's above-average bulk and makes it have a harder time checking the threats it needs to.

 
Last edited:
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nv

The Lost Age
is a Community Contributor Alumnusis a Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Media Contributor Alumnusis a Battle Simulator Staff Alumnus
Additions
Removals
Comments
Overview

Zapdos is one of the best defensive Pokemon in Mix and Mega due to its semi-unique typing and a great set of resistances. It is also the premier defensive -Ate -ate check in the metagame thanks to Venusaurite giving it a Ice neutrality as well as its Electric typing giving it a Flying resistance. Furthermore, it gains a Fire resistance, which allows it to take on threats such as Primal Groudon and Pinsirite Entei. Zapdos also only has one weakness once it Mega Evolves, giving it a great amount of staying power on any balance balance- or defensively-minded defensive-minded team. While Zapdos does have a lot going for it, Zapdos it is also very prepared for with the Pokemon it checks such as Primal Groudon carrying Rock-type coverage to bypass it. Zapdos also has a somewhat paltry base 100 Speed that allows it to outspeed walls, but it is slower than offensive threats that can overwhelm Zapdos and its team.

Defensive
Zapdos @ Venusaurite / Sablenite
Ability: Pressure
EVs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD
Bold Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Roost
- Defog
- Volt Switch / Thunderbolt
- Toxic

Set Comments

Moves

Roost allows Zapdos to keep itself healthy throughout the game while also getting rid of its one weakness, in exchange for another, for one turn. Defog allows Zapdos to support the team by getting rid of entry hazards on its side of the field. The STAB move of choice depends on what team Zapdos is on. If you wanna want to be able to gain momentum, Volt Switch is a really solid option that allows Zapdos to pivot throughout the game game, whereas Thunderbolt can hit hits harder and allows Zapdos to stay in if necessary. Toxic is the best option Zapdos has for its last moveslot moveslot, as it allows it to cripple Ground-types such as Zygarde and Primal Groudon while also nailing non-Sablenite walls. Hidden Power Ice can be a good option as well well, since it can force out Pokemon that try to set up on it such as Zygarde-Complete. Zygarde-C.

Set Details

Venusaurite gives Zapdos a Fire resistance while also neutralizing its Ice weakness, leaving it with only a Rock-type weakness, making it very hard to take down especially with its access to reliable recovery in Roost. Sablenite is also a very viable option option, as it gives a better bulk increase, gives an immunity to status moves such as Toxic and Taunt from non-Gyaradosite users, and allows for a slower Volt Switch to bring in frailer threats such as Weavile and Pheromosa. 248 HP EVs givs give Zapdos an uneven HP number, allowing it to switch in 4 four times with Stealth Rock on the field rather than 3 three times. Maximum Defense EVs allows allow Zapdos to take on common -ate Pokemon such as Genesect a lot easier as well as being able to make better use of its resistances. The rest is dumped into Special Defense to give Zapdos a bit of a boost to its special bulk. A Bold nature further bolsters Zapdos's Defense stat.

Usage Tips

Zapdos should be used as a bulky pivot that can abuse utilize its somewhat unique resistances to cripple or pivot out on Primal Groudon, Pheromosa, and Genesect. Zapdos needs to watch out for random random, albeit uncommon, coverage from these Pokemon Pokemon, as some of them tend to carry Rock-type moves moves. albeit uncommon. Zapdos should be wary of which move it wants to use use, as Sablenite users can cripple it by bouncing back Toxic while Ground-types can block its STAB move, allowing them to drain all the momentum Zapdos has gained. Switching into Stealth Rock users Pokemon who set up Stealth Rock is best best, as it Zapdos can't check as many things Pokemon with them up and with Sablenite it can even bounce them back. Try and switch out whenever a Pokemon tries to status Zapdos Zapdos, as it really hates being statused as it can be worn down a lot easier.

Team Options

U-turn and Volt Switch users such as Pheromosa and Magearna provide a very solid VoltTurn core to allow the team to gain momentum with ease and wear down the opponent. foe. Pheromosa is good in particular particular, since it can hit special walls for Zapdos while Zapdos can cripple Pheromosa's checks such as Arceus-Ghost and Toxapex. Special walls such as Sablenite Blissey complement Zapdos's weaker defensive stat. Blissey's only weakness is also resisted by Zapdos, making them a really solid defensive core in the metagame. Furthermore, Blissey can help Zapdos with entry hazard control thanks to Magic Bounce and get rid of status via Heal Bell. Steel-types such as Jirachi and Arceus-Steel are wonderful partners for Zapdos as well due to it offering up a Fighting- and Fire-type resistance while also having a Ground immunity. Steel-types can also absorb Toxic aimed at Zapdos, Zapdos while tanking Rock-type moves, helping to keep status at bay. Other -ate checks such as Magearna, Skarmory, and Celesteela can ease pressure off of Zapdos, allowing it to be more effective as a pivot and as a wall. Heal Bell users such as Blissey can help Zapdos steer clear of being status. Primal Groudon checks such as Zygarde-Complete Zygarde-C and Arceus-Ground can be very good partners for Zapdos Zapdos, as they not only help relieve pressure off of Zapdos (who (which has to worry about Stone Edge unlike them two), but both also appreciate Zapdos's ability to wear down the opponent's bulkier Pokemon with Toxic or by pivoting into them. Lastly, setup sweepers such as Manaphy and Terrakion appreciate Zapdos' Zapdos's ability to wall threats such as Kartana, paving the way for them to sweep.

Strategy Comments

Other Options

Heat Wave is a nice option for the guaranteed OHKO on Kartana, but Zapdos can still wall Kartana w/o without it it, as it has pitiful Special Defense and is 2HKOed by Thunderbolt after Stealth Rock. Roar is a neat option that allows Zapdos to phaze out potential threats trying to take advantage of it such as Swords Dance Primal Groudon or and Dragon Dance Zygarde. Blue Orb is a neat option to completely shut down Primal Groudon, but it still has access to Rock-type coverage to overpower Zapdos. Discharge is a viable option that allows Zapdos to further support the team with paralysis support, but Volt Switch and Thunderbolt provide more reliability via their momentum grabbing or power.

Checks and Counters

**Magic Bounce Users**: Blissey and Cresselia can tank Zapdos's STAB moves and, in the case of Cresselia, can even set up as they bounce back Toxic thanks to Sablenite.

**Rock-types**: Terrakion and Arceus-Rock have access to very powerful STAB moves to plow through Zapdos and can even set up Stealth Rock or Swords Dance as they force Zapdos out.

**Ground-types**: Primal Groudon and Zygarde are immune to Zapdos's main STAB move while the former carries Stone Edge to nail it and Zygarde the latter has access to Thousand Arrows Arrows, which can hit Zapdos despite it being Flying-type. its Flying typing. They both can also threatenZapdos threaten Zapdos whenever it uses Roost due to its primary Electric-typing. Electric typing.

**Status**: Toxic can cripple Zapdos Zapdos, as it has no passive recovery and it can only use Roost so much before poison damage does more than it recovers.

**Stealth Rock**: With Zapdos being part Flying-type, Stealth Rock cuts into Zapdos's above-average bulk and makes it have a harder time checking the threats it needs to.

Implemented and ready for the second GP check.
 
Overview

Zapdos is one of the best defensive Pokemon in Mix and Mega due to its semi-unique typing and a great set of resistances. It is also the premier defensive -ate check in the metagame thanks to Venusaurite giving it a Ice neutrality as well as its Electric typing giving it a Flying resistance. Furthermore, it Zapdos gains a Fire resistance, which allows it to take on threats such as Primal Groudon and Pinsirite Entei. Zapdos also only has one weakness once it Mega Evolves, giving it a great amount of staying power on any balance- or defensive-minded team. While Zapdos does have a lot going for it, it is also very prepared for the Pokemon it checks such as Primal Groudon carrying Rock-type coverage to bypass it. Zapdos also has a somewhat paltry base 100 Speed that allows it to outspeed walls, but it is slower than offensive threats that can overwhelm Zapdos and its team.

Defensive
Zapdos @ Venusaurite / Sablenite
Ability: Pressure
EVs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD
Bold Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Roost
- Defog
- Volt Switch / Thunderbolt
- Toxic

Set Comments

Moves

Roost allows Zapdos to keep itself healthy throughout the game while also getting rid of its one weakness, in exchange for another, for one turn. Defog allows Zapdos to support the team by getting rid of entry hazards on its side of the field. The STAB move of choice depends on what team Zapdos is on. If you want to be able to gain momentum, Volt Switch is a really solid option that allows Zapdos to pivot throughout the game, whereas Thunderbolt hits harder and allows Zapdos to stay in if necessary. Toxic is the best option Zapdos has for its last moveslot, as it allows it to cripple Ground-types such as Zygarde and Primal Groudon while also nailing non-Sablenite walls. Hidden Power Ice can be a good option as well, since it can force out Pokemon that try to set up on it such as Zygarde-C.

Set Details

Venusaurite gives Zapdos a Fire resistance while also neutralizing its Ice weakness, leaving it with only a Rock-type weakness, making it very hard to take down especially with its access to reliable recovery in Roost. Sablenite is also a very viable option, as it gives a better bulk increase, gives an immunity to status moves such as Toxic and Taunt from non-Gyaradosite users, and allows for a slower Volt Switch to bring in frailer threats such as Weavile and Pheromosa. 248 HP EVs give Zapdos an uneven HP number, allowing it to switch in four times with Stealth Rock on the field rather than three times. Maximum Defense EVs allow Zapdos to take on common -ate Pokemon such as Genesect a lot easier as well as being able to make better use of its resistances. The rest is dumped into Special Defense to give Zapdos a bit of a boost to its special bulk. A Bold nature further bolsters Zapdos's Defense stat.

Usage Tips

Zapdos should be used as a bulky pivot that can utilize its somewhat unique resistances to cripple or pivot out on Primal Groudon, Pheromosa, and Genesect. Zapdos needs to watch out for random, albeit uncommon, coverage from these Pokemon, as some of them tend to carry Rock-type moves. Zapdos should be wary of which moves it wants to uses, as Sablenite users can cripple it by bouncing back Toxic while Ground-types can block its STAB move, allowing them to drain all the momentum Zapdos has gained. Switching into Stealth Rock users is best, as Zapdos can't check as many Pokemon with them it ('Stealth Rock' is singular') up and with Sablenite it can even bounce them it back. Try and switch out whenever a Pokemon tries to status Zapdos, as it can be worn down a lot easier.

Team Options

U-turn and Volt Switch users such as Pheromosa and Magearna provide a very solid VoltTurn core to allow the team to gain momentum with ease and wear down the foe. Pheromosa is good in particular, since it can hit special walls while Zapdos can cripple Pheromosa's checks such as Arceus-Ghost and Toxapex. Special walls such as Sablenite Blissey complement Zapdos's weaker defensive stat. Blissey's only weakness is also resisted by Zapdos, making them a really solid defensive core in the metagame. Furthermore, Blissey can help Zapdos with entry hazard control thanks to Magic Bounce and get rid of status via Heal Bell. Steel-types such as Jirachi and Arceus-Steel are wonderful partners for Zapdos as well due to it offering up a Fighting- and Fire-type resistance while also having a Ground immunity. Steel-types can also absorb Toxic aimed at Zapdos while tanking Rock-type moves, helping to keep status at bay. Other -ate checks such as Magearna, Skarmory, and Celesteela can ease pressure off of Zapdos, allowing it to be more effective as a pivot and as a wall. Heal Bell users such as Blissey can help Zapdos steer clear of status. Primal Groudon checks such as Zygarde-C and Arceus-Ground can be very good partners for Zapdos, as they not only help relieve pressure off of Zapdos (which has to worry about Stone Edge unlike them two), but also appreciate Zapdos's ability to wear down the opponent's bulkier Pokemon with Toxic or by pivoting into them. Lastly, setup sweepers such as Manaphy and Terrakion appreciate Zapdos's ability to wall threats such as Kartana, paving the way for them to sweep.

Strategy Comments

Other Options


Heat Wave is a nice option for the guaranteed OHKO on Kartana, but Zapdos can still wall Kartana without it, as it has pitiful Special Defense and is 2HKOed by Thunderbolt after Stealth Rock. Roar is a neat option that allows Zapdos to phaze potential threats trying to take advantage of it such as Swords Dance Primal Groudon and Dragon Dance Zygarde. Blue Orb is a neat option to completely shut down Primal Groudon, but it still has access to Rock-type coverage to overpower Zapdos. Discharge is a viable option that allows Zapdos to further support the team with paralysis support, but Volt Switch and Thunderbolt provide more reliability via their momentum grabbing or power.

Checks and Counters

**Magic Bounce Users**: Blissey and Cresselia can tank Zapdos's STAB moves and, in the case of Cresselia, can even set up as they bounce back Toxic thanks to Sablenite.

**Rock-types**: Terrakion and Arceus-Rock have access to very powerful STAB moves to plow through Zapdos and can even set up Stealth Rock or Swords Dance as they force Zapdos out.

**Ground-types**: Primal Groudon and Zygarde are immune to Zapdos's main STAB move while the former carries Stone Edge to nail it and the latter has access to Thousand Arrows, which can hit Zapdos despite its Flying typing. They both can also threaten Zapdos whenever it uses Roost due to its primary Electric typing.

**Status Toxic (this section only talks about Toxic anyway)**: Toxic can cripple Zapdos, as it has no passive recovery and it can only use Roost so much before poison damage does more than it recovers.

**Stealth Rock**: With Zapdos being part Flying-type, Stealth Rock cuts into Zapdos's above-average bulk and makes it have a harder time checking the threats it needs to.
 
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Sobi

Banned deucer.
me: add remove
Overview

Zapdos is one of the best defensive Pokemon in Mix and Mega due to its semi-unique typing and a great set of resistances. It is also the premier defensive -ate check in the metagame thanks to Venusaurite giving it a Ice neutrality as well as its Electric typing giving it a Flying resistance. Furthermore, it Zapdos gains a Fire resistance, which allows it to take on threats such as Primal Groudon and Pinsirite Entei. Zapdos also only has one weakness once it Mega Evolves, giving it a great amount of staying power on any balance- or defensive-minded team. While Zapdos does have a lot going for it, it is also very prepared for the Pokemon it checks such as Primal Groudon carrying Rock-type coverage to bypass it. Zapdos also has a somewhat paltry base 100 Speed that allows it to outspeed walls, but it is slower than offensive threats that can overwhelm Zapdos and its team.

Defensive
Zapdos @ Venusaurite / Sablenite
Ability: Pressure
EVs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD
Bold Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Roost
- Defog
- Volt Switch / Thunderbolt
- Toxic

Set Comments

Moves

Roost allows Zapdos to keep itself healthy throughout the game while also getting rid of its one weakness, in exchange for another, for one turn. Defog allows Zapdos to support the team by getting rid of entry hazards on its side of the field. The STAB move of choice depends on what team Zapdos is on. If you want to be able to gain momentum, Volt Switch is a really solid option that allows Zapdos to pivot throughout the game, whereas Thunderbolt hits harder and allows Zapdos to stay in if necessary. Toxic is the best option Zapdos has for its last moveslot, as it allows it to cripple Ground-types such as Zygarde and Primal Groudon while also nailing non-Sablenite walls. Hidden Power Ice can be a good option as well, since it can force out Pokemon that try to set up on it such as Zygarde-C.

Set Details

Venusaurite gives Zapdos a Fire resistance while also neutralizing its Ice weakness, leaving it with only a Rock-type weakness, making it very hard to take down especially with its access to reliable recovery in Roost. Sablenite is also a very viable option, as it gives a better bulk increase, gives grants (idk you just used gives) an immunity to status moves such as Toxic and Taunt from non-Gyaradosite users, and allows for a slower Volt Switch to bring in frailer threats such as Weavile and Pheromosa. 248 HP EVs give Zapdos an uneven HP number, allowing it to switch into four times with Stealth Rock on the field four times rather than three times. Maximum Defense EVs allow Zapdos to take on common -ate Pokemon such as Genesect a lot easier as well as being able to make better use of its resistances. The rest is dumped into Special Defense to give Zapdos a bit of a boost to its special bulk. A Bold nature further bolsters Zapdos's Defense stat.

Usage Tips

Zapdos should be used as a bulky pivot that can utilize its somewhat unique resistances to cripple or pivot out on Primal Groudon, Pheromosa, and Genesect. Zapdos needs to watch out for random, albeit uncommon, coverage from these Pokemon, as some of them tend to carry Rock-type moves. Zapdos should be wary of which moves it wants to uses, as Sablenite users can cripple it by bouncing back Toxic, (AC) while Ground-types can block its STAB move, allowing them to drain all the momentum Zapdos has gained. Switching into Stealth Rock users is best, as Zapdos can't check as many Pokemon with them it ('Stealth Rock' is singular') up, (AC) and with Sablenite, (AC) it can even bounce them it back. Try and switch out whenever a Pokemon tries to status Zapdos, as it can be worn down a lot easier. (good changes here)

Team Options

U-turn and Volt Switch users such as Pheromosa and Magearna provide a very solid VoltTurn core to allow the team to gain momentum with ease and wear down the foe. Pheromosa is good in particular, since it can hit special walls while Zapdos can cripple Pheromosa's checks such as Arceus-Ghost and Toxapex. Special walls such as Sablenite Blissey complement Zapdos's weaker defensive stat. Blissey's only weakness is also resisted by Zapdos, making them a really solid defensive core in the metagame. Furthermore, Blissey can help Zapdos with entry hazard control thanks to Magic Bounce and get rid of status via Heal Bell. Steel-types such as Jirachi and Arceus-Steel are wonderful partners for Zapdos as well due to it offering up a Fighting- and Fire-type resistance while also having a Ground immunity. Steel-types can also absorb Toxic aimed at Zapdos while tanking Rock-type moves, helping to keep status at bay. Other -ate checks such as Magearna, Skarmory, and Celesteela can ease pressure off of Zapdos, allowing it to be more effective as a pivot and as a wall. Heal Bell users such as Blissey can help Zapdos steer clear of status. Primal Groudon checks such as Zygarde-C and Arceus-Ground can be very good partners for Zapdos, as they not only help relieve pressure off of Zapdos (which has to worry about Stone Edge unlike them two), but also appreciate Zapdos's ability to wear down the opponent's bulkier Pokemon with Toxic or by pivoting into them. Lastly, setup sweepers such as Manaphy and Terrakion appreciate Zapdos's ability to wall threats such as Kartana, paving the way for them to sweep.

Strategy Comments

Other Options


Heat Wave is a nice option for the guaranteed OHKO on Kartana, but Zapdos can still wall Kartana without it, as it has pitiful Special Defense and is 2HKOed by Thunderbolt after Stealth Rock. Roar is a neat option that allows Zapdos to phaze potential threats trying to take advantage of it such as Swords Dance Primal Groudon and Dragon Dance Zygarde. Blue Orb is a neat option to completely shut down Primal Groudon, but it still has access to Rock-type coverage to overpower Zapdos. Discharge is a viable option that allows Zapdos to further support the team with paralysis support, but Volt Switch and Thunderbolt provide more reliability via their momentum grabbing or power.

Checks and Counters

**Magic Bounce Users**: Blissey and Cresselia can tank Zapdos's STAB moves and, in the case of Cresselia, can even set up as they bounce back Toxic thanks to Sablenite.

**Rock-types**: Terrakion and Arceus-Rock have access to very powerful STAB moves to plow through Zapdos and can even set up Stealth Rock or Swords Dance as they force Zapdos out.

**Ground-types**: Primal Groudon and Zygarde are immune to Zapdos's main STAB move; (ASC) while the former carries Stone Edge to nail it and the latter has access to Thousand Arrows, which can hit Zapdos despite its Flying typing. They both can also threaten Zapdos whenever it uses Roost due to its primary Electric typing.

**Status Toxic (this section only talks about Toxic anyway)**: Toxic can cripple Zapdos, as it has no passive recovery and it can only use Roost so much before poison damage does more than it recovers.

**Stealth Rock**: With Zapdos being part Flying-type, Stealth Rock cuts into Zapdos's above-average bulk and makes it have a harder time checking the threats it needs to.
meh checking this again but found some stuff when checking the amcheck and kris said it's ok so GP 2/2
 
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