Gen 4 Tentacruel (OU) [QC 2/2, GP 1/1]

[Cubic Skunk]

[OVERVIEW]
Tentacruel's great Special Defense, Speed, and Water typing give it a niche as a solid check to special Water- and Fire-types. Tentacruel critically has access to Rapid Spin, and it's a grounded Poison type, letting it absorb Toxic Spikes upon switch-in, which separates it from the other prominent Water-type spinner of the tier, Starmie. In addition, Tentacruel's unique mix of utility moves, such as its own Toxic Spikes and Knock Off, make it a very appealing choice for stall teams and further differentiates it from Starmie. Knock Off is especially valuable, as it reduces Tentacruel's passivity by crippling bulkier Pokemon and Choice item users; it also complements Toxic Spikes, as bulkier Pokemon tend to run Leftovers, which would otherwise mitigate the poison damage. Tentacruel's Poison typing gives it an important resistance to Fighting, letting it check Fighting-types with Grass-type coverage such as Breloom and Infernape, as they typically lack the options to hit it super effectively.

However, Tentacruel is still a rare sight in OU with fairly fringe viability. Despite having Knock Off, Tentacruel is fairly passive due to its mediocre Special Attack stat and struggles to damage the main spinblocker of the tier: Rotom-A. It's also weak to the omnipresent Earthquake, meaning it can't check powerful physical attackers such as Flygon, Swampert, Dragon Dance Tyranitar, Dragon Dance Gyarados, and Dragon Dance Dragonite, unlike most other defensive Water-types. In addition, many common defensive Pokemon Tentacruel would want to spin or set up Toxic Spikes on can potentially 2HKO it, such as Gliscor, Hippowdon, Quagsire, and Rotom-A. Above all, Tentacruel's low physical bulk, lack of recovery, and crucial vulnerability to Spikes and sand mean it struggles to safely get in and actually utilize its support movepool. Even resisted attacks such as Breloom's Focus Punch and Gyarados's boosted Waterfall can 2HKO it after entry hazard damage. Tentacruel has high base Speed, but it needs all the bulk investment it can get, so it is commonly outsped and then KOed by strong attackers. While the other viable Rapid Spin users, Starmie, Forretress, and Donphan, don't clear Toxic Spikes upon switching in, their longevity is significantly better; the former has reliable recovery and Natural Cure to stave off status, while Forretress and Donphan are immune to sand and much more physically bulky. Additionally, the ability to absorb and set up Toxic Spikes isn't hugely valuable, as stall teams commonly respond to that threat by running multiple Pokemon immune to them, such as Clefable, Jirachi, and Skarmory.

[SET]
name: Defensive Rapid Spin
move 1: Rapid Spin
move 2: Surf
move 3: Toxic Spikes
move 4: Sludge Bomb / Knock Off
item: Black Sludge
ability: Liquid Ooze
nature: Calm
evs: 244 HP / 100 Def / 164 SpD

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Surf provides Tentacruel with a reliable attack to check threats weak to Water, such as Gliscor, Heatran, Infernape, Nidoqueen, and Hippowdon. Despite Tentacruel's mediocre Special Attack, Surf 2HKOes Infernape and offensive Heatran, and it can even OHKO Naive Infernape. It 3HKOes most variants of Hippowdon, 2HKOes the physically defensive versions, and 2HKOes most variants of Nidoqueen. Toxic Spikes is the most common third move, as Tentacruel is one of the few Pokemon with access to it. It helps to cripple grounded offensive and defensive Pokemon alike such as Tyranitar, Swampert, Quagsire, and Hippowdon. Sludge Bomb helps overcome Tentacruel's passivity against Breloom, OHKOing it, and can spread status to Toxic Spikes-immune Pokemon like Latias, Gyarados, and Dragonite. Knock Off is another fantastic choice to make up for Tentacruel's general passivity; it can be critical to wearing down defensive Pokemon by removing Leftovers, as well as crippling Choice item attackers trying to exploit Tentacruel such as Flygon, Gyarados, Swampert, and Tyranitar. Knock Off also has excellent synergy with Toxic Spikes, preventing Leftovers from reducing poison damage.

Set Details
========
Black Sludge gives Tentacruel passive recovery and offsets sand chip damage. Unlike Leftovers, it also dissuades Trick users such as Rotom-A, Metagross, and Latias. The given EV spread and nature let Tentacruel avoid the 2HKO from offensive Timid Heatran's Earth Power after Stealth Rock. The remaining EVs are dumped into Defense to make up for Tentacruel's low Defense stat, letting it better take physical Fighting-type attacks. Alternatively, a Bold nature with a spread of 252 HP / 224 Def / 32 Spe could be used to improve Tentacruel's ability to switch in on physical attacks, as its Special Defense is already quite good. Here, 32 Speed EVs allow Tentacruel to outrun maximum Speed Tyranitar.

Usage Tips
========
Tentacruel's unique palette of resistances allows it to switch into common Water-, Fire-, Ice-, and Fighting-type attacks effectively, especially from Choice item attackers such as Choice Specs Latias locked into Surf, Choice Scarf Tyranitar using Pursuit or Superpower, and Choice Specs Zapdos using Heat Wave or Hidden Power Ice. Tentacruel preys on bulky Water-types bar Swampert, Fire-types such as Heatran and Infernape, and bulky walls that can't status it, such as Skarmory, some Blissey, and some defensive Jirachi. It uses these Pokemon to remove entry hazards, set up Toxic Spikes, and hit more foes with Knock Off. However, Tentacruel is vulnerable to all entry hazards and sand; therefore, it can't be switching around too cavalierly to remove entry hazards, lest it be too weakened and overwhelmed. This weakness is exacerbated by its lack of recovery. Tentacruel typically enjoys switching in early to establish Toxic Spikes and spread Knock Off, as well as checking threats while it is healthy, and then coming in conservatively afterwards to maintain health for an emergency Rapid Spin. This emergency Rapid Spin is especially effective against defensive teams that lack Rotom-A, as many of their members are passive and don't damage Tentacruel outside of entry hazards. It can even use Toxic Spikes or Rapid Spin against Clefable in a pinch. However, keeping it in against Clefable means Tentacruel risks getting hit by Knock Off or Thunder Wave, the former of which is particularly debilitating. Generally, with its physical frailty and tendency to get worn down, using other Pokemon to get Tentacruel in is advised.

Team Options
========
Tentacruel fits best on specific teams that benefit from the specific set of roles that it compresses. Though it is an equally rare sight in the tier, Abomasnow absolutely loves having Tentacruel as a partner. It appreciates Tentacruel resisting Fighting and Fire alongside clearing Toxic Spikes and Stealth Rock. In turn, Abomasnow can switch in on Ground-type attacks, and it easily scares out Ground-types like Gliscor and Flygon that threaten Tentacruel. The duo of Tentacruel and Abomasnow is great against most Water-types, with the exception of Gyarados. Hippowdon is another great partner, as it loves having Toxic Spikes cleared, and it appreciates Toxic Spikes being laid down to give it an easier time stalling out the opposition. Magnezone can remove Skarmory and Forretress early on to limit the number of times Tentacruel needs to remove Spikes. Latias and Zapdos can switch in on Ground-type attacks and force out the likes of Gliscor and Flygon, and their best checks being vulnerable to poison, combined with their own instant recovery, lets them take great advantage of Toxic Spikes. Substitute + Roost Zapdos particularly has synergy with Toxic Spikes, potentially stalling out Pokemon like Tyranitar, Swampert, and Hippowdon that would otherwise check Zapdos. Both Pokemon's reliable recovery also makes them reliable answers to Fighting-type and, in Latias's case, Fire-type attacks, making sure Tentacruel isn't overburdened and letting it focus on managing entry hazards. Specially defensive Jirachi ensures Tentacruel won't be overwhelmed by special attackers while being effective with Toxic Spikes due to Iron Head flinching and Wish stalling. Clefable greatly appreciates Toxic Spikes wearing down would-be checks and making it easier to stall out said Pokemon. Tentacruel can also lure in opposing Clefable and cripple it with Knock Off, meaning that Clefable can potentially drop Knock Off itself and use another support move, such as Encore, Thunder Wave, Stealth Rock, or even Heal Bell. The reverse also can be done, with Clefable running Knock Off so Tentacruel can run Sludge Bomb or Ice Beam instead. Calm Mind Clefable, as well as other special attackers, especially likes Toxic Spikes, as it cripples special tanks and walls like Tyranitar, Blissey, and Swampert.

Tentacruel also can be useful for many grounded walls that enjoy Toxic Spikes support. Blissey appreciates Tentacruel's Rapid Spin, as one of Blissey's primary faults as a wall is its vulnerability to all entry hazards, especially Spikes. Blissey can in turn use Wish to heal up Tentacruel, thus mitigating Tentacruel's proclivity to getting worn down. Similarly, Celebi appreciates entry hazard removal alongside Tentacruel switching into special Fire- and Ice-type attacks; Celebi and Tentacruel work well together against almost all Water-types as well. As a fellow Grass-type, Breloom also appreciates Tentacruel's resistance palette and enjoys Rapid Spin support, and in turn, Breloom can break through Pokemon like Blissey, Clefable, Hippowdon, Tyranitar, and Swampert that can wear down or flat out KO Tentacruel. Swords Dance Breloom is especially good at wallbreaking for Tentacruel, as passive Pokemon and Ground-types give it easy setup chances. Though an uncommon sight, Lunar Dance Cresselia also makes for a good partner to Tentacruel, as it can heal Tentacruel of status and bring it back to full health in a pinch; it can also switch in on Ground-type attacks and paralyze Pokemon like Jirachi, Latias, Heatran, Lucario, and Infernape to make it easier for Tentacruel to stay in on said Pokemon.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============

Ice Beam is a decent option to OHKO Flygon, Gliscor, and Dragonite while chipping Latias and Breloom. However, it is hard to fit due to the value of Tentacruel's other moves. Hidden Power Electric may seem appealing to let Tentacruel 2HKO Gyarados, but due to its weakness to Earthquake and many Gyarados using Wacan Berry, it can struggle to pull that off. Hydro Pump can help Tentacruel push past spinblockers like Rotom and Gengar more easily, 2HKOing the latter and offensive versions of the former. With 68 Special Attack EVs, it can even 2HKO defensive versions of Rotom-A in sand after Stealth Rock. However, the extra PP of Surf is generally more beneficial. Mirror Coat could be used to take advantage of Tentacruel's massive Special Defense stat, taking powerful special attacks and then seriously denting the opposing Pokemon back, if not outright KOing them.

Checks and Counters
===================

**Ground-types**: Tentacruel's low physical bulk and Poison typing make it a Water-type that can't switch into physical Ground-types. Many Earthquake-using Ground-types such as Flygon, Swampert, Gliscor, Quagsire, Nidoqueen, and Hippowdon can severely damage if not outright KO Tentacruel with Earthquake. However, with Surf and potentially Ice Beam, Tentacruel can deal heavy damage to Ground-types.

**Clefable**: Clefable is the hardest counter to Tentacruel available, as it is immune to passive damage with Magic Guard, shrugs off Surf with ease thanks to its high HP and Special Defense, and can use Knock Off itself to remove Tentacruel's Black Sludge. Calm Mind sets can also set up on Tentacruel with impunity, but Tentacruel can only threaten a Knock Off itself.

**Passive Damage**: Tentacruel is vulnerable to all of Spikes, Stealth Rock, and sand while lacking reliable recovery, and it must switch in through said entry hazards to spin, and thus it gets worn down very easily.

**Electric-types**: Rotom-A and Zapdos easily 2HKO Tentacruel and are immune to Toxic Spikes while shrugging off Surf. Rotom-A is especially difficult to deal with, as it is immune to Rapid Spin. Both do not enjoy taking Knock Off, however.

**Strong Physical Attacks**: Tentacruel's low physical bulk means it struggles with most physical attackers of the tier, especially if it can't hit them super effectively. All of Tyranitar, Swampert, Flygon, Metagross, Dragonite, Gyarados, Lucario, and Gliscor won't have many issues overwhelming Tentacruel.

**Setup Sweepers**: Tentacruel's passivity means that sweepers can often switch in on it and set up, such as Calm Mind Jirachi, Dragon Dance Gyarados, and Calm Mind Clefable. Dragonite can also set up on it should Dragonite have a Yache Berry or Tentacruel lacks Ice Beam, and it can KO Tentacruel with Earthquake and Outrage.

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Cubic Skunk, 527292]]
- Quality checked by: [[DeepBlueC, 307789], [johnnyg2, 57904]]
- Grammar checked by: [[Finland, 517429]]

 

[DeepBlueC]

Hi,

Overall, good work on this write-up. Please see below for the changes I have suggested.

This color reflects the changes that I have made
This color reflects the reasoning for the change in parenthesis.

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[OVERVIEW]

Tentacruel has one of the highest Special Defense stats in the tier at base 120, and its high Speed stat means it will outrun most bulkier Pokemon and even some more offensive ones. Its great Special Defense and Water-typing makes it a solid switch-in to Water-type and Fire-type attacks. It also has access to a very coveted move in Rapid Spin, and unlike it's fellow Water-type Rapid Spinner, Starmie, it doesn't get poisoned by Toxic Spikes as it switches in, but instead absorbs them due to it's secondary Poison-typing. It also can set Toxic Spikes of it's its (grammar) own. This combination of being able to set Toxic Spikes and absorb them makes it a very appealing choice to stall teams, particularly ones with Pokemon like Hippowdon that appreciate Toxic Spikes being cleared (grammar) and appreciate them being set up to wear down checks. Its secondary Poison-typing makes it a Water-type that isn't checked by Grass-types, and it also gives enables (better phrasing) Tentacruel to resist (better phrasing) a resistance to Fighting-type attacks, allowing it to survive (changed the phrasing to make it seem that Tentacruel can survive, but not easily switch into physical fighting attacks) letting it switch into such attacks from Pokemon like Gengar, Breloom and the uncommon Infernape. It also has access to Knock Off to get rid of Leftovers items of (there are scenarios where Tentacruel may be able to knock off Choice Scarf from Rotom or Choice Specs from Lati, so the usage of "items" is broader) from bulkier Pokemon or choice users, which can potentially make Toxic Spikes even scarier for those the former Pokemon as they tend to run Leftovers which would otherwise alleviate the poison damage (just adding more reasoning as to why it would be more scarier to pokemon susceptible to toxic spikes).

However, despite the myriad of support options it can bring to a team, Tentacruel is a very rare sight in OU. This is because, although it has some very nice traits, it also has some major problems that hold it back. Tentacruel is fairly passive, as it's its Special Attack stat is mediocre, and it won't hurt much with it's its STABs or coverage unless it is super effective and/or the Pokemon is frail, meaning it will struggle to pressure the main spinblocker in the tier, Rotom-A. While its Poison-typing gets rid of it's its Grass Weakness, it also adds a weakness to Ground-type moves, making Tentacruel a Water-type that can't check Ground-types. Its Ground weakness in conjunction with its low Physical Defense and average HP stats means that it won't survive most Physical (this is slightly more accurate since Tentacruel tends to live special-based ground type attacks like Earth Power from Swampert or Heatran) Ground-type attacks from powerful attackers such as Flygon, Tyranitar, Dragonite and Gyarados. Even when coming from more defensive pokemon, like Quagsire or Hippowdon, Physical Ground-type attacks still chunk it hard. Even some resisted Pphysical makes moves can sting if they are strong enough, such as Focus Punch from Adamant Breloom and a Dragon Dance-boosted Waterfall from Gyarados. Its low Physical Defense in conjunction with its vulnerability to all entry hazards and sand means that, in practice, Tentacruel often struggles to safely get on the field. Because it generally doesn't run much speed investment, it isn't hard to chase it off the field with attackers having speed investment that enable said attackers to outspeed it (just providing additional explanation). This in turn limits its opportunity to clear Stealth Rock and Spikes, and to set up Toxic Spikes of its own. While the other viable Rapid Spin users, Starmie, Forretress, and Donphan don't clear Toxic Spikes upon switching in, their longevity is otherwise significantly better; the latter two are immune to sand, and the former of which has reliable recovery and Natural Cure to stave off Status. Many stall teams also are made built in ways that Toxic Spikes aren't a massive issue, such as having multiple Pokemon that are immune to them. This makes Tentacruel's ability to clear Toxic Spikes and provide set them less valuable than it seems on paper. All of this suggests to players that, outside of specific teams, Tentacruel may not be an optimal choice.

[SET]
name: Defensive Rapid Spin
move 1: Rapid Spin
move 2: Surf
move 3: Toxic Spikes/Knock Off/Ice Beam
move 4: Sludge Bomb/Knock Off/Ice Beam
item: Black Sludge/Leftovers
ability: Liquid Ooze
nature: Calm
evs: 244 HP / 100 Def / 164 SpD

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
This set makes use of Tentacruel's unique traits and the role compression it brings to teams, and its ability to check Fire-types and some Water-types. Rapid Spin allows Tentacruel to clear the field of hazards so it's its teammates won't get worn down as fast. Surf provides Tentacruel with a reliable, yet-reasonably strong STAB move. Despite Tentacruel's mediocre Special Attack, Surf will still deal reasonable damage to most Pokemon it hits super effectively; it 2HKOes Infernape and offensive Heatran, and can even OHKO the former if it is running a Special Defense-reducing nature, which is not uncommon for mixed Infernape sets. It 3HKOes most variants of Hippowdon, and can 2HKO the physically defensive versions, and it will 2HKO most variants of Nidoqueen. After Surf and Rapid Spin, the next two moveslots will generally depend on what your team wants. Toxic Spikes is the most common move in the third slot, as Tentacruel is one of the few Pokemon with access to them, and they can help cripple threats to stall like Tyranitar, Swampert and Infernape. They can also help out against opposing stall teams by crippling the likes of Quagsire, Hippowdon, Milotic and Blissey (though the former's Natural Cure ability means that it will be cured of poisoning once it switches out). However, stall teams often stack Pokemon that are immune to Toxic Spikes, and they may even carry an absorber of them, like Nidoqueen. If your team has sufficient answers to the aforementioned Pokemon that are vulnerable to Toxic Spikes, Knock Off is a fantastic alternative that allows Tentacruel to rob Pokemon of their item. Knock Off and Toxic Spikes could be run together on the same set if so desired, making for a deadly combination; Knock Off robbing Pokemon like HIppowdon, Swampert and Quagsire of their Leftovers means that Toxic Spikes will put them on an even shorter timer before they either have to switch out or, in the case of Hippowdon and Quagsire, heal off damage. It also can get rid of power-boosting items from Pokemon like Flygon (though it has to hit Flygon on the switch) and Tyranitar, thereby making it and make it harder for these Pokemon to break through the Tentacruel user's team. Ice Beam is a decent option to hit the likes of Flygon, Gliscor, Dragonite and Latias for super effective damage, and it can even OHKO the former three. It also can push damage on Breloom, and KO it with some prior chip. If Breloom is especially worrying to your team, Sludge Bomb can be used to OHKO it, though Ice Beam is generally better.

Set Details
========
Black Sludge is used to give Tentacruel passive recovery, and to offset sand chipping it. Leftovers is a fine option as well, as it does the same thing, but Black Sludge is generally better for it's its ability to dissuade Trick-users like Rotom, Latias and Uxie from trying to take away Tentacruel's recovery, as it will damage them by 6% each turn instead of healing 6%. The given EV spread and nature let Tentacruel avoid the 2HKO from offensive Heatran's Earth Power after Stealth Rock if it is running a Timid Nature. The remaining EVs are dumped into physical Defense to make up for Tentacruel's low Defense Stat, and to better take physical Fighting-type attacks.
Usage Tips
========

Team Options
========
Tentacruel fits best on specific teams that benefit from its specific set of roles that it compresses into one Pokemon. Though it is an equally rare sight in the tier, Abomasnow absolutely loves having Tentacruel as a partner. It appreciates Tentacruel resisting Fighting-type and Fire-type attacks, it's its ability to clear Toxic Spikes, and it clearing the field of Stealth Rock. In turn, Abomasnow can switch in on Ground-type attacks, and easily scares out Ground-types like Gliscor and Flygon that threaten Tentacruel. The duo of Tentacruel and Abomasnow also are great against most Water-types, with the exception of Gyarados. Hippowdon is another great partner, as it loves having Toxic Spikes cleared, and appreciates them being laid down so that it can have an easier time stalling out the opposition. Magnezone is a nice partner to remove Skarmory and Forretress early on and not let them get up too many layers of Spikes, making it so Tentacruel won't get chipped as fast. Latias and Zapdos are good partners as well for their ability to switch in on Ground-type attacks and force out the likes of Gliscor and Flygon, and can be great abusers of Toxic Spikes. Substitute Roost Zapdos is particularly devilish with Toxic Spikes, crippling Pokemon like Tyranitar, Swampert and co. that would otherwise check it. Their access to reliable recovery in Recover and Roost respectively means that they can be more reliable Fighting and, in Latias's case, Fire resists, ensuring Tentacruel isn't over-relied on and can focus on it's its job of clearing Toxic Spikes and setting them, and using Rapid Spin. Specially defensive Jirachi also makes for a good partner so that Tentacruel isn't over-relied on to check special attacking threats, and it is a nasty abuser of Toxic Spikes with Iron Head, Protect and Wish helping Jirachi to stall out Pokemon quicker and to make Toxic Spikes even scarier to come in on.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============

Hydro Pump could be used to help Tentacruel push past spinblockers like Rotom and Gengar easier, 2HKOing the latter and 3HKOing offensive versions of the former. However, the extra PP of Surf is generally more beneficial. Mirror Coat could be used to take advantage of Tentacruel's massive Special Defense Stat, taking powerful special attacks and than seriously denting the opposing Pokemon back, if not outright KOing them. Giga Drain might seem appealing to let it hit Swampert and Quagsire super effectively, but it does not KO them, and Tentacruel will be smacked hard if not KOed back in return, so it is not that good in practice. Hidden Power Electric may also seem appealing to let Tentacruel hit Gyarados, but due to it being a Poison-type and the fact that most Gyarados run Earthquake, as a bulky Water-type Tentacruel isn’t really suited to checking it at all.

Checks and Counters
===================

Ground-types:
Tentacruel's Poison-typing and low Defense stat make it a Water-type that can't check Ground-types. It will get severely damaged by most Ground-type moves if it even survives them at all. However, with it's STAB water moves and access to Ice Beam, it can still threaten some of them back, like Flygon and Gliscor. It also can have one of it's its teammates act as the team's resistance to Water-type attacks, like Latias or Abomasnow.

Clefable:
Clefable is perhaps the hardest counter to Tentacruel available, as it is completely immune to passive damage, is bulky on the special side, and can use Knock Off itself to remove Tentacruel's Black Sludge. Calm Mind sets can also set up on Tentacruel with immense ease. While it is far from a death sentence for it, removing Clefable's Leftovers with Knock Off can be annoying for Clefable, and it is Tentacruel's only real way of harming Clefable that doesn't involved switching out and letting a teammate handle it.

Passive Damage:
Tentacruel is vulnerable to all of Spikes, Stealth Rock, and Sand, which makes wearing it down not a hard task. This combined with it's its low Physical Defense and average HP means it often has trouble getting onto the field to do it's its job.

Strong Physical Attacks:
Tentacruel's meager Physical Defense stat means that most physical attackers can overwhelm it easily with Stealth Rock and Sand up. All of Tyranitar, Swampert, Flygon, Metagross, Dragonite, Gyarados, Lucario and Gliscor won't have many issues overwhelming Tentacruel.

Set Up Sweepers:
Though Tentacruel may be able to threaten some of them due to its decent coverage options, its relative passivity means that many set up sweepers like Calm Mind Jirachi, Dragon Dance Gyarados, and Calm Mind Clefable can set up on it freely. Dragonite can also set up on it without much issue if Tentacruel is not running Ice Beam, though Knock Off can be annoying for it by removing its Berry or Life Orb, and it will wear down quickly.
[CREDITS]
- Written by: [Cubic Skunk 527292]
- Quality checked by: [[, ], [, ]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]

 

[Cubic Skunk]

Just implemented your suggested changes, thx for the QC DBC :D

Ready for QC number 2.

 

[johnnyg2]

Hi Cubic! Thanks for taking this on! Once implemented, please run the usage, teammate section, and oo by me again and I'll QC it.

strikethrough=remove this
bold=my comments
italics=my changes

Some of your formatting is a bit off, so I'll fix the formatting as I go through for GP.

Hide

[OVERVIEW]

Tentacruel's has one of the highest Special Defense stats in the tier at base 120, and its high Speed stat means it will outrun most bulkier Pokemon and even some more offensive ones great Special Defense, Speed, and Water-typing gives it a niche as a solid check to special Water- and Fire-types. makes it a solid switch-in to Water-type and Fire-type attacks (this isn't really true, tenta is a pretty bad physical water/fire (it still takes a ton from infernape even w bold) switch in due to most of them having eq and it lacks recovery. Special waters eventually breakthrough due to tenta's weak coverage although give up an easy rapid spin/knock/tspikes and heatran will eventually breakthrough w earth power). Tentacruel's critical access to Rapid Spin and grounded Poison-typing separate it from the other prominent Water-type spinner of the tier Starmie, as it absorbs Toxic Spikes upon switch-in. It also has access to a very coveted move in Rapid Spin, and unlike its fellow Water-type Rapid Spinner, Starmie, it doesn't get poisoned by Toxic Spikes as it switches in, but instead absorbs them due to its secondary Poison-typing. It also can set Toxic Spikes of its own. In addition, Tentacruel's unique mix of utility moves, such as its own Toxic Spikes and Knock Off This combination of being able to set Toxic Spikes and absorb them makes it a very appealing choice to stall teams. Knock Off is especially valuable, as it compensates for Tentacruel's passivity by removing items from bulkier Pokemon and choiced users while further separating it from Starmie. particularly ones with Pokemon like Hippowdon that appreciate Toxic Spikes being cleared and appreciate them being set up to wear down checks (I wouldn't mention Hippo here, that's for later in the teammate section). Tentacruel's secondary Poison-typing give it an important check to Fighting-types with Grass-type coverage such as Breloom and Infernape, as they typically lack the options to hit it super-effectively. Its secondary Poison-typing makes it a Water-type that isn't checked by Grass-types, and it also enables Tentacruel to resist Fighting-type attacks, allowing it to survive attacks from Pokemon like Gengar, Breloom and the uncommon Infernape (I wouldn't mention that infernape is uncommon. I also think Tenta is a pretty poor Gengar switch in even w the Focus Blast resist, so I wouldnt mention it here (also very rarely if at all carries grass moves). It also has access to Knock Off to get rid of items of bulkier Pokemon and choice users, which can potentially make Toxic Spikes even scarier for the former Pokemon as they tend to run Leftovers, which would otherwise alleviate the poison damage. (I'm gonna move this to the section where we mention Knock)

However, despite the its myriad of support options it can bring to a team, Tentacruel is a very rare sight in OU. This is because, although it has some very nice traits, it also has some major problems that hold it back. Tentacruel is fairly passive due to its mediocre Special Attack stat and struggles to damage the main spinblock of the tier: Rotom-A. , as its Special Attack stat is mediocre, and it won't hurt much with its STABs or coverage unless it is super effective and/or the Pokemon is frail, meaning it will struggle to pressure the main spinblocker in the tier, Rotom-A. Compounding this, Tentacruel's typing gives it a weakness to the omnipresent Earthquake, meaning it can't check powerful physical attackers such as Flygon, Swampert, Dragon Dance Tyranitar, Dragon Dance Gyarados, and Dragon Dance Dragonite. In addition, many common defensive Pokemon Tentacruel wants to Rapid Spin or set up Toxic Spikes on can potentially 2HKO it, such as Gliscor, Hippowdon, Quagsire, and Rotom-A. While its Poison-typing gets rid of its Grass Weakness, it also adds a weakness to Ground-type moves, making Tentacruel a Water-type that can't check Ground-types. Its Ground weakness in conjunction with its low Physical Defense and average HP stats means that it won't survive most Physical Ground-type attacks from powerful attackers such as Flygon, Tyranitar, Swampert, Dragonite and Gyarados. Even when coming from more defensive pokemon, such as Quagsire, bulky Swampert and Hippowdon, Physical Ground-type attacks still chunk it hard. Even some resisted Physical moves can sting if they are strong enough, such as Focus Punch from Adamant Breloom and a Dragon Dance-boosted Waterfall from Gyarados. Its low Physical Defense in conjunction with its vulnerability to all entry hazards and sand means that, in practice, Tentacruel often struggles to safely get on the field.(some of this is fluffy and can be summed up better, let me know if i missed anything) Above all, Tentacruel's low physical bulk, lack of recovery, and crucial vulnerability to Spikes means it struggles to safely get in on the field and take advantage of its support movepool, as even resisted attacks such as Breloom's Focus Punch and Gyarados's boosted Waterfall can 2HKO it after entry hazards. Despite its Speed, Tentacruel typically needs all the physical bulk it can get, and as such, is commonly outsped and KOed by strong attackers. Because it generally doesn't run much speed investment, it isn't hard to chase it off the field with attackers having speed investment to enable said attackers to outspeed it. This in turn limits its opportunity to clear Stealth Rock and Spikes, and to set up Toxic Spikes of its own. While the other viable Rapid Spin users -- Starmie, Forretress, and Donphan -- don't clear Toxic Spikes upon switching in, their longevity is otherwise significantly better; the latter two are immune to sand and the former has reliable recovery and Natural Cure to stave off Status the former has reliable recovery and Natural Cure to stave off status, while Forretress and Donphan are sand immune and much more physically bulky. Additionally, the ability to absorb and set up Toxic Spikes isn't hugely valuable, as the metagame has largely adapted to Toxic Spikes due many common Pokemon on stall teams being immune to them, such as Clefable, Jirachi, and Skarmory. Many stall teams also are built in ways that Toxic Spikes aren't a massive issue, such as having multiple Pokemon that are immune to them. This makes Tentacruel's ability to clear Toxic Spikes and set them less valuable than it seems on paper. All of this suggests to players that, outside of specific teams, Tentacruel may not be an optimal choice. These factors suggest that Tentacruel only has fringe viability in DPP OU.

[SET]
name: Defensive Rapid Spin (Is this the most common spread? I feel Tentacruel really can't afford a lot of spdef and should run Bold and just enough speed creep for jolly ttar? DeepBlueC could you comment?
move 1: Rapid Spin
move 2: Surf
move 3: Toxic Spikes/Knock Off/Ice Beam (I personally believe Tenta should always run Knock Off and Ice Beam is really fringe, but I'll leave that up to you) (even sludge is pretty fringe, but I could see it)
move 4: Sludge Bomb/Knock Off/Ice Beam
item: Black Sludge/Leftovers (Tentacruel should never run leftovers)
ability: Liquid Ooze
nature: Calm
evs: 244 HP / 100 Def / 164 SpD

[SET COMMENTS] I feel like there's too much fluff here: you want to describe the moves in pretty barebones detail and then write more exposition in the teammates section
Moves
This set makes use of Tentacruel's unique traits and the role compression it brings to teams, and its ability to check Fire-types and some Water-types. Rapid Spin is Tentacruel's most important move -- it allows Tentacruel to clears the field of entry hazards so its teammates won't get worn down as fast. Surf provides Tentacruel with a reliable attack to check Water-weak threats, such as Gliscor, Heatran, Infernape, Nidoqueen, and Hippowdon. , yet-reasonably strong STAB move(GP does not allow you to use the abbreviation STAB). Despite Tentacruel's mediocre Special Attack, Surf will still deal reasonable damage to most Pokemon it hits super effectively; it 2HKOes Infernape and offensive Heatran, and can even OHKO the former if it is running a Special Defense-reducing nature, which is not uncommon for mixed Infernape sets. It 3HKOes most variants of Hippowdon, and can 2HKO the physically defensive versions, and it will 2HKO most variants of Nidoqueen. After Surf and Rapid Spin, the next two moveslots will generally depend on what your team wants. Toxic Spikes is the most common move in the third slot, as Tentacruel is one of the few Pokemon with access to them, and they can help cripple threats to stall like and helps to cripple grounded offensive threats such as Tyranitar, Swampert, and Infernape while also helping against defensive Pokemon like Quagsire, Hippowdon, Milotic, and Blissey. They can also help out against opposing stall teams by crippling the likes of Quagsire, Hippowdon, Milotic and Blissey (though the former's Natural Cure ability means that it will be cured of poisoning once it switches out). However, stall teams often stack Pokemon that are immune to Toxic Spikes, and they may even carry an absorber of them, like Nidoqueen. If your team has sufficient answers to the aforementioned Pokemon that are vulnerable to Toxic Spikes, Knock Off is a fantastic alternative choice that allows Tentacruel to rob Pokemon of their item to make up for its passivity by removing items; critical to help wear down defensive Pokemon by removing Leftovers while also crippling attackers trying to take advantage of Tentacruel such as Flygon, Gyarados, Swampert, and Tyranitar. (the following sentences are incorrect, please remove them) Knock Off and Toxic Spikes could be run together on the same set if so desired, making for a deadly combination; Knock Off robbing Pokemon like HIppowdon, Swampert and Quagsire of their Leftovers means that Toxic Spikes will put them on an even shorter timer before they either have to switch out or, in the case of Hippowdon and Quagsire, heal off damage. It also can get rid of power-boosting items from Pokemon like Flygon (though it has to hit Flygon on the switch) and Tyranitar, thereby making it harder for these Pokemon to break through the Tentacruel's user team. Ice Beam is a decent option to OHKO Flygon, Gliscor, and Dragonite while chipping Latias and Breloom. for super effective damage, and it can even OHKO the former three. It also can push damage on Breloom, and KO it with some prior chip. If Breloom is especially worrying to your team, Sludge Bomb can be used to OHKO it, though Ice Beam is generally better.

Set Details
========
Black Sludge is used to give Tentacruel passive recovery and to offset sand chipping it. Black Sludge also dissuades Trick users such as Rotom-A, Metagross, and Latias due to damaging them. Leftovers is a fine option as well, as it does the same thing, but Black Sludge is generally better for its ability to dissuade Trick-users like Rotom, Latias and Uxie from trying to take away Tentacruel's recovery, as it will damage them by 6% each turn instead of healing 6%. The given EV spread and nature let Tentacruel avoid the 2HKO from offensive Heatran's Earth Power after Stealth Rock if it is running a Timid Nature. The remaining EVs are dumped into physical Defense to make up for Tentacruel's low Defense Stat, and to better take physical Fighting-type attacks.(consider bold 252 hp 224 def 32 speed to maximize physical defense. We can talk about that in comments)

Usage Tips
========

Please fill this out, DPP QC uses a usage section

Team Options (Please expand on this section, as this is the most important section of the analysis. There is more than the aboma tenta zone hippo lati rachi stall, and I think you need to go in more detail about what tenta does for those particular pokemon (opens up set flexibility etc). I also would add in a few more pokemon: Breloom is a big one, esp sd versions, so if clef (potentially freeing up knock from clef as tenta does a good job knocking opposing clef). Mention things that take advantage of tspikes beyond zapdos.)
========
Tentacruel fits best on specific teams that benefit from its specific set of roles that it compresses into one Pokemon. Though it is an equally rare sight in the tier, Abomasnow absolutely loves having Tentacruel as a partner. It appreciates Tentacruel resisting Fighting-type and Fire-type attacks, its ability to clear Toxic Spikes and Stealth Rock. In turn, Abomasnow can switch in on Ground-type attacks, and easily scares out Ground-types like Gliscor and Flygon that threaten Tentacruel. The duo of Tentacruel and Abomasnow also are great against most Water-types, with the exception of Gyarados. Hippowdon is another great partner, as it loves having Toxic Spikes cleared, and appreciates them being laid down so that it can have an easier time stalling out the opposition. Magnezone is a nice partner to remove Skarmory and Forretress early on and not let them get up too many layers of Spikes, making it so Tentacruel won't get chipped as fast. Latias and Zapdos are good partners as well for their ability to switch in on Ground-type attacks and force out the likes of Gliscor and Flygon, and can be great abusers of Toxic Spikes. Substitute Roost Zapdos is particularly devilish with Toxic Spikes crippling Pokemon like Tyranitar, Swampert and co. that would otherwise check it. Their access to reliable recovery in Recover and Roost respectively means that they can be more reliable Fighting and, in Latias's case, Fire resists, ensuring Tentacruel isn't over-relied on and can focus on its job of clearing Toxic Spikes and setting them, and using Rapid Spin. Specially defensive Jirachi also makes for a good partner so that Tentacruel isn't over-relied on to check special attacking threats, and it is a nasty abuser of Toxic Spikes with Iron Head, Protect and Wish helping Jirachi to stall out Pokemon quicker and to make Toxic Spikes even scarier to come in on.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
============= (imo ice beam should be the first OO option, then hp elec. Has there been any high level replays w hydro/mirror coat/esp giga drain?

Hydro Pump could be used to help Tentacruel push past spinblockers like Rotom and Gengar easier, 2HKOing the latter and 3HKOing offensive versions of the former. However, the extra PP of Surf is generally more beneficial. Mirror Coat could be used to take advantage of Tentacruel's massive Special Defense Stat, taking powerful special attacks and than seriously denting the opposing Pokemon back, if not outright KOing them. Giga Drain might seem appealing to let it hit Swampert and Quagsire super effectively, but it does not KO them, and Tentacruel will be smacked hard if not KOed back in return, so it is not that good in practice. Hidden Power Electric may also seem appealing to let Tentacruel hit Gyarados, but due to it being a Poison-type and the fact that most Gyarados run Earthquake, as a bulky Water-type Tentacruel isn’t really suited to checking it at all.

Checks and Counters
===================

**Ground-types**: Tentacruel's low bulk and Poison-typing make it a Water-type that can't switch into Ground-types. Many physical Ground-types such as Flygon, Swampert, Gliscor, Quagsire, Nidoqueen, and Hippowdon can severely damage if not KO Tentacruel with Earthquake. However, with Surf and access to Ice Beam and Giga Drain, it can deal heavy damage in return.

**Clefable**: Clefable is the hardest counter to Tentacruel, as it is immune to passive damage with Magic Guard, shrugs off Surf, and can use Knock Off itself to remove Tentacruel's Black Sludge. Calm Mind sets can also set up on Tentacruel with impunity. Tentacruel only can threaten a Knock Off itself.

**Passive Damage**: Tentacruel is vulnerable to all of Spikes, Stealth Rock, and Sand while lacking reliable recovery and as such gets worn down very easily.

**Electric-types**: Rotom-A and Zapdos easily 2HKO Tentacruel and are immune to Toxic Spikes while shrugging off Surf. Rotom-A is especially difficult to deal with, as it is immune to Rapid Spin. Both do not enjoy taking Knock Off, however.

**Strong Physical Attacks**: Tentacruel's low physical bulk means it struggles with most physical attackers of the tier, especially if it can't hit them super effectively. All of Tyranitar, Swampert, Flygon, Metagross, Dragonite, Gyarados, Lucario and Gliscor won't have many issues overwhelming Tentacruel.

**Set Up Sweepers**: Tentacruel's passivity means that sweepers can often switch in on it and set up, such as Calm Mind Jirachi, Dragon Dance Gyarados, and Calm Mind Clefable. Dragonite can also set up on it should it have a Yache Berry or Tentacruel lacks Ice Beam and KO it back with Earthquake and Outrage.


Ground-types:
Tentacruel's Poison-typing and low Physical Defense stat make it a Water-type that can't check Ground-types. It will get severely damaged by most Physical Ground-type moves if it even survives them at all. However, with it's STAB water moves and access to Ice Beam, it can still threaten some of them back, like Flygon and Gliscor. It also can have one of its teammates act as the team's resistance to Water-type attacks, like Latias or Abomasnow.

Clefable:
Clefable is perhaps the hardest counter to Tentacruel available, as it is completely immune to passive damage, is bulky on the special side, and can use Knock Off itself to remove Tentacruel's Black Sludge. Calm Mind sets can also set up on Tentacruel with immense ease. While it is far from a death sentence for it, removing Clefable's Leftovers with Knock Off can be annoying for Clefable, and it is Tentacruel's only real way of harming Clefable that doesn't involve switching out and letting a teammate handle it.

Passive Damage:
Tentacruel is vulnerable to all of Spikes, Stealth Rock, and Sand, which makes wearing it down not a hard task. This combined with its low Physical Defense and average HP means it often has trouble getting onto the field to do its job.

Strong Physical Attacks:
Tentacruel's meager Physical Defense stat means that most physical attackers can overwhelm it easily with Stealth Rock and Sand up. All of Tyranitar, Swampert, Flygon, Metagross, Dragonite, Gyarados, Lucario and Gliscor won't have many issues overwhelming Tentacruel.

Set Up Sweepers:
Though Tentacruel may be able to threaten some of them due to its decent coverage options, its relative passivity means that many set up sweepers like Calm Mind Jirachi, Dragon Dance Gyarados, and Calm Mind Clefable can set up on it freely. Dragonite can also set up on it without much issue if Tentacruel is not running Ice Beam, though Knock Off can be annoying for it by removing its Berry or Life Orb, and it will wear down quickly.
[CREDITS]
- Written by: [Cubic Skunk 527292]
- Quality checked by: [[DeepBlueC 307789, ], [, ]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]

 

[Cubic Skunk]

Hi Johnnyg2, I'll implement those changes for sure. Thanks for the feedback!

As for the usage section, It completely slipped my mind to fill that out. I'm so sorry about that! I'll go back and fill that out.

 

[Cubic Skunk]

Out of curiosity, when you said the sentences about Toxic Spikes + Knock Off were incorrect, what exactly did you mean? Did you mean that Tentacruel can't afford to run both moves on the same set?

 

[johnnyg2]

Out of curiosity, when you said the sentences about Toxic Spikes + Knock Off were incorrect, what exactly did you mean? Did you mean that Tentacruel can't afford to run both moves on the same set?

I can go over on discord (johnnyg2#1100) to go over in more detail about everything, but to answer your question, I felt it was too strong of a statement. You don’t have to run knock in conjunction w tspikes, and since you had all three slashed, it shouldn’t be so absolute. I apologize if it seemed too harsh

 

[Cubic Skunk]

No worries. I didn't mean that they had to be run together. I just meant that they could be run together, and that there were a couple of different options that could work in those slots depending on what your team needed. Thinking about it now though I might have made it a bit confusing with all the slashing I did with the moves.

I'll dm u on discord with a couple other questions so I don't clog up the analysis thread too much.

 

[xapx]

hi amgp
add/fix remove
AC add comma; RC remove comma; AH add hyphen; RH remove hyphen

tentacles

[OVERVIEW]

Tentacruel's great Special Defense, Speed, and Water-typing gives it a niche as a solid check to special Water-types and Fire-types. Tentacruel's critical access to Rapid Spin and grounded Poison-typing separate it from the other prominent Water-type spinner of the tier, Starmie, as it absorbs Toxic Spikes upon switch-in. In addition, Tentacruel's unique mix of utility moves, such as its own Toxic Spikes and Knock Off,(AC) makes it a very appealing choice to for stall teams, further differentiating itself from Starmie. Knock Off is especially valuable, as it compensates for Tentacruel's passivity by removing items from bulkier Pokemon and Choiced users while further separating it from Starmie. Knock Off can also potentially make Toxic Spikes even scarier for these bulkier Pokemon as they; it also complements Toxic Spikes, as bulkier Pokemon tend to run Leftovers, which would otherwise mitigates the poison damage. Tentacruel's secondary Poison-typing gives it an important resistence resistance to Fighting-type moves, letting it check Fighting-types with Grass-type coverage such as Breloom and Infernape, as they typically lack the options to hit it super (RH)effectively.

However, despite its the myriad of support options it can bring to a team, Tentacruel is a rare sight in OU. Tentacruel is fairly passive due to its mediocre Special Attack stat and struggles to damage the main spinblocker of the tier: Rotom-A. Compounding this, Tentacruel's typing gives it a weakness to the omnipresent Earthquake, meaning it can't check powerful physical attackers such as Flygon, Swampert, Dragon Dance Tyranitar, Dragon Dance Gyarados, and Dragon Dance Dragonite, unlike most other defensive Water-types. In addition, many common defensive Pokemon Tentacruel wants to Rapid Spin or set up Toxic Spikes on can potentially 2HKO it, such as Gliscor, Hippowdon, Quagsire, and Rotom-A. Above all, Tentacruel's low physical bulk, lack of recovery, and crucial vulnerability to Spikes and sand means it struggles to safely get in on the field and take advantage of utilize its support movepool, as even resisted attacks such as Breloom's Focus Punch and Gyarados's boosted Waterfall can 2HKO it after entry hazards damage. Despite its Speed, Tentacruel typically needs all the bulk it can get, and as such, is commonly outsped and KOed by strong attackers. While the other viable Rapid Spin users,(AC,RH) Starmie, Forretress, and Donphan,(AC,RH) don't clear Toxic Spikes upon switching in, their longevity is otherwise significantly better; the former has reliable recovery and Natural Cure to stave off status, while Forretress and Donphan are immune to sand immune and much more physically bulky. Additionally, the ability to absorb and set up Toxic Spikes isn't hugely valuable, as the metagame has largely adapted to Toxic Spikes due many common Pokemon on stall teams being immune to them, such as Clefable, Jirachi, and Skarmory. All of these factors suggest that Tentacruel may only have fringe viability in DPP OU.

[SET]
name: Defensive Rapid Spin
move 1: Rapid Spin
move 2: Surf
move 3: Toxic Spikes
move 4: Sludge Bomb/Knock Off
item: Black Sludge
ability: Liquid Ooze
nature: Calm
evs: 244 HP / 100 Def / 164 SpD

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
Rapid Spin is Tentacruel's most important move -- it clears the field of entry hazards. Surf provides Tentacruel with a reliable attack to check threats weak to Water-weak threats, such as Gliscor, Heatran, Infernape, Nidoqueen, and Hippowdon. Despite Tentacruel's mediocre Special Attack, Surf 2HKOes Infernape and offensive Heatran, and can even OHKO the former if it is running a Special Defense-reducing nature. It 3HKOes most variants of Hippowdon, can 2HKOes the physically defensive versions, and it will 2HKOes most variants of Nidoqueen. Toxic Spikes is the most common move in the third slot, as Tentacruel is one of the few Pokemon with access to them. It helps to cripple grounded offensive threats such as Tyranitar, Swampert, and Infernape while also helping against defensive Pokemon like Quagsire, Hippowdon, Milotic, and Blissey. Sludge Bomb helps overcome Tentacruel's passivity against Breloom by OHKOing it and can help spread status to Toxic Spikes-(AH)immune Pokemon like Latias, Gyarados, and Dragonite. Knock Off is another fantastic choice to make up for its passivity by removing items; this can be critical to help wear down defensive Pokemon by removing Leftovers while also crippling Choiced attackers trying to take advantage of Tentacruel such as Flygon, Gyarados, Swampert, and Tyranitar. Knock Off also has excellent synergy with Toxic Spikes.

Set Details
========
Black Sludge is used to give Tentacruel passive recovery, and to offset sand chipping it. Black Sludge also dissuades Trick users such as Rotom-A, Metagross, and Latias due to damaging as it damages them. The given EV spread and nature let Tentacruel avoid the 2HKO from offensive Heatran's Earth Power after Stealth Rock if it Heatran is running a Timid Nature. The remaining EVs are dumped into physical Defense to make up for Tentacruel's low Defense Stat, and to letting it better take physical Fighting-type attacks. Alternatively, a Bold nature with a spread of 252 HP / 224 Def / 32 Spe could be used to improve Tentacruel's ability to switch in on physical attacks, as it's its Special Defense is already quite good. On the spread with the Bold Nature, 32 Speed EVs allow Tentacruel to outrun max Speed Tyranitar.

Usage Tips
========
Tentacruel's unique palette of resistances allows it to switch into common Water-, Fire-, Ice-, and Fighting-type attacks effectively, especially if they are Choiced such as Choice Specs Latias locked into Surf, Choice Scarf Tyranitar locked into Pursuit or Superpower, and Choice Specs Zapdos locked into Heat Wave or Hidden Power Ice. Tentacruel preys on Pokemon such as bulky Water-types bar Swampert, Fire-types such as Heatran,(AC) and Infernape, as well as and bulky walls that can't status, such as Skarmory, some Blissey, and some defensive Jirachi. In return, Tentacruel threatens to remove entry hazards, set up Toxic Spikes, and spread Knock Off. However, Tentacruel is vulnerable to all entry hazards and sand, and as such, needs to be carefully switching around too cavalierly to remove entry hazards lest it be too weakened and overwhelmed. This weakness is exacerbated by its lack of recovery. Tentacruel typically enjoys switching in early to establish Toxic Spikes(RC) and spread Knock Off, as well as checking threats while it is healthy and then conservatively afterwards to maintain health for an emergency Rapid Spin. This emergency Rapid Spin is especially effective against defensive teams that lack Rotom-A, as many of their members are passive and don't damage it outside of entry hazards. Tentacruel can even use Toxic Spikes or Rapid Spin against Clefable in a pinch. However, keeping it in against Clefable means Tentacruel risks getting hit by Knock Off and losing its Black Sludge, and or getting paralyzed by Thunder Wave, so using other Pokemon as points of entry is generally more advised.

Team Options
========
Tentacruel fits best on specific teams that benefit from its specific set of roles that it compresses into one Pokemon. Though it is an equally rare sight in the tier, Abomasnow absolutely loves having Tentacruel as a partner. It appreciates Tentacruel resisting Fighting-type and Fire-type attacks, its ability to and clearing Toxic Spikes and Stealth Rock. In turn, Abomasnow can switch in on Ground-type attacks, and easily scares out Ground-types like Gliscor and Flygon that threaten Tentacruel. The duo of Tentacruel and Abomasnow also are is great against most Water-types, with the exception of Gyarados. Hippowdon is another great partner, as it loves having Toxic Spikes cleared, and appreciates them being laid down so that it can have an easier time stalling out the opposition. Magnezone is a nice partner to remove Skarmory and Forretress early on to limit the amount of times it Tentacruel needs to remove Spikes. Latias and Zapdos are good partners as well for their ability to switch in on Ground-type attacks and force out the likes of Gliscor and Flygon, and can be great abusers of Toxic Spikes themselves. Substitute+Roost Zapdos is particularly synergetic with Toxic Spikes,(AC) potentially stalling out crippling Pokemon like Tyranitar, Swampert and Hippowdon that would otherwise check it. Their access to reliable recovery in Recover and Roost respectively means that they can be more reliable Fighting-type and, in Latias's case, Fire-type,(AC) resists, ensuring Tentacruel isn't over-relied on and can focus on its job of clearing Toxic Spikes,(RC) entry hazards and setting Toxic Spikes, and using Rapid Spin. Specially Defensive Jirachi also makes for a good partner so that Tentacruel isn't over-relied on to check won't be overwhelmed by special attacking threats while being effective with Toxic Spikes due to Iron Head flinching(RC) and Wish stalling. Clefable is also is an excellent partner, as it appreciates Toxic Spikes wearing down would-be (RH)checks and making it easier to stall out said Pokemon. Tentacruel having access to Knock Off and being good at hitting opposing Clefable with it means can also lure in and Knock Off opposing Clefable, meaning that Clefable can potentially drop Knock Off in it's its own moveset and use another support move, such as Encore, Thunder Wave, Stealth Rock,(AC) or even Heal Bell. The reverse also can be done, with Clefable freeing up Tentacruel from having to running Knock Off so it Tentacruel can run Sludge Bomb or Ice Beam instead. Calm Mind sets for Clefable, as well as other special attackers, especially like Toxic Spikes, as they hit most Pokemon that Calm Mind Clefable, and other Special attackers, want crippled, it cripples checks like Tyranitar, Blissey, and Swampert.

Tentacruel is an excellent support for many grounded walls that enjoy Toxic Spikes support. Blissey appreciates Tentacruel's ability to clear Toxic Spikes and Rapid Spin remove entry hazards, as one of Blissey's primary faults as a wall is its vulnerability to all entry hazards, especially Spikes, that makes it more difficult to function. Blissey can in turn can use Wish to heal up Tentacruel, thus mitigating Tentacruel's proclivity to getting worn down. In a similar way, Celebi appreciates entry hazard removal and enjoys Tentacruel's ability to switch into special Fire-type and Ice-type attacks;(add semicolon;RC) as the duo of Celebi and Tentacruel works well together against almost all Water-types as well. As a fellow Grass-type, Breloom also appreciates Tentacruel's resistance palette and enjoys Rapid Spin support, while in turn, Breloom can break through Pokemon like Blissey, Clefable, Hippowdon, Tyranitar,(AC) and Swampert that can wear down or flat out KO Tentacruel. Swords Dance Breloom is especially good at breaking for Tentacruel, as passive Pokemon and Ground-types gives it easy set up. Though an uncommon sight, Lunar Dance Cresselia also makes for a good partner to Tentacruel, as it can heal Tentacruel of status and bring it back to full health in a pinch;(remove period,add semicolon) it can also switch in on Ground-type attacks(RC) and it paralyze Pokemon like Jirachi, Latias, Heatran, Lucario,(AC) and Infernape to make staying in on said Pokemon easier for Tentacruel.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============

Ice Beam is a decent option to OHKO Flygon, Gliscor, and Dragonite while chipping Latias and Breloom. However, it is hard to fit due to the value of Tentacruel's other moves such as Toxic Spikes, Sludge Bomb,(AC) and Knock Off. Hidden Power Electric may seem appealing to let Tentacruel hit Gyarados, but due to it being weak to Gyarados's common its weakness to Earthquake and many Gyarados using Wacan Berry, it can struggle to pull it off. Hydro Pump could be used to help Tentacruel push past spinblockers like Rotom and Gengar easier, 2HKOing the latter and offensive versions of the former. With 68 Special Attack EVs, it can even 2HKO defensive versions of Rotom-A in sand after Stealth Rock. However, the extra PP of Surf is generally more beneficial. Mirror Coat could be used to take advantage of Tentacruel's massive Special Defense stat, taking powerful special attacks and then seriously denting the opposing Pokemon back, if not outright KOing them.

Checks and Counters
===================

**Ground-types**: Tentacruel's low physical bulk and Poison (RH)typing make it a Water-type that can't switch into physical Ground-types. Many physical Ground-types such as Flygon, Swampert, Gliscor, Quagsire, Nidoqueen, and Hippowdon can severely damage if not outright KO Tentacruel with Earthquake. However, with Surf and potentially Ice Beam, it Tentacruel can deal heavy damage in return to Ground-types.

**Clefable**: Clefable is the hardest counter to Tentacruel available, as it is immune to passive damage with Magic Guard, shrugs off Surf with ease thanks to it's its high HP and Special Defense, and can use Knock Off itself to remove Tentacruel's Black Sludge. Calm Mind sets can also set up on Tentacruel with impunity,(AC,remove period) but Tentacruel can only can threaten a Knock Off itself.

**Passive Damage**: Tentacruel is vulnerable to all of Spikes, Stealth Rock, and sand while lacking reliable recovery and as such gets worn down very easily.

**Electric-types**: Rotom-A and Zapdos easily 2HKO Tentacruel and are immune to Toxic Spikes while shrugging off Surf. Rotom-A is especially difficult to deal with, as it is immune to Rapid Spin. Both do not enjoy taking Knock Off, however.

**Strong Physical Attacks**: Tentacruel's low physical bulk means it struggles with most physical attackers of the tier, especially if it can't hit them super effectively. All of Tyranitar, Swampert, Flygon, Metagross, Dragonite, Gyarados, Lucario and Gliscor won't have many issues overwhelming Tentacruel.

**Setup Sweepers**: Tentacruel's passivity means that sweepers can often switch in on it and set up, such as Calm Mind Jirachi, Dragon Dance Gyarados, and Calm Mind Clefable. Dragonite can also set up on it should it Dragonite have a Yache Berry or Tentacruel lacks Ice Beam,(AC) and KO it back with Earthquake and Outrage.
[CREDITS]
- Written by: [Cubic Skunk 527292]
- Quality checked by: [[DeepBlueC 307789, ], [johnnyg2, 57904 ]]
- Grammar checked by: [[, ], [, ]]

 

[Cubic Skunk]

just implemented the suggested changes. thanks for the GP!


(edit: didnt realize that amgp's were different than reg gps. still needs a gp or a stamp approving it)

 

[Adeleine]

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[OVERVIEW]
Tentacruel's great Special Defense, Speed, and Water typing (removed hyphen) give it a niche as a solid check to special Water- (added hyphen) and Fire-types. Tentacruel's critical access to Rapid Spin and grounded Poison-typing separate Tentacruel critically has access to Rapid Spin, and it's a grounded Poison type, letting it absorb Toxic Spikes upon switch-in, which separates it from the other prominent Water-type spinner of the tier, Starmie, as it absorbs Toxic Spikes upon switch-in. Starmie. In addition, Tentacruel's unique mix of utility moves, such as its own Toxic Spikes and Knock Off, make it a very appealing choice for stall teams, further differentiating itself teams and further differentiates it from Starmie. Knock Off is especially valuable, as it compensates for reduces Tentacruel's passivity by removing items from crippling bulkier Pokemon and Choiced Choice item users; it also complements Toxic Spikes, as bulkier Pokemon tend to run Leftovers, which would otherwise mitigates the poison damage. Tentacruel's secondary Poison-typing Poison typing gives it an important resistance to Fighting, letting it check Fighting-types with Grass-type coverage such as Breloom and Infernape, as they typically lack the options to hit it super effectively. (removed hyphen)

However, despite the myriad of support options it can bring to a team, Tentacruel is still a rare sight in OU with fairly fringe viability. Despite having Knock Off, Tentacruel is fairly passive due to its mediocre Special Attack stat and struggles to damage the main spinblocker of the tier: Rotom-A. Compounding this, Tentacruel's typing gives it a weakness It's also weak to the omnipresent Earthquake, meaning it can't check powerful physical attackers such as Flygon, Swampert, Dragon Dance Tyranitar, Dragon Dance Gyarados, and Dragon Dance Dragonite, unlike most other defensive Water-types. In addition, many common defensive Pokemon Tentacruel wants to Rapid Spin would want to spin or set up Toxic Spikes on can potentially 2HKO it, such as Gliscor, Hippowdon, Quagsire, and Rotom-A. Above all, Tentacruel's low physical bulk, lack of recovery, and crucial vulnerability to Spikes and sand means it struggles to safely get in on the field and actually utilize its support movepool, as even movepool. Even resisted attacks such as Breloom's Focus Punch and Gyarados's boosted Waterfall can 2HKO it after entry hazard damage. Despite its Speed, Tentacruel typically needs all the bulk it can get, and as such, Tentacruel has high base Speed, but it needs all the bulk investment it can get, so it is commonly outsped and then KOed by (optional: "...and then KOed—still—by...") strong attackers. While the other viable Rapid Spin users, Starmie, Forretress, and Donphan, don't clear Toxic Spikes upon switching in, their longevity is significantly better; the former has reliable recovery and Natural Cure to stave off status, while Forretress and Donphan are immune to sand and much more physically bulky. Additionally, the ability to absorb and set up Toxic Spikes isn't hugely valuable, as the metagame has largely adapted to Toxic Spikes due many common Pokemon on stall teams being stall teams commonly respond to that threat by running multiple Pokemon immune to them, (I imagine this make sense?) such as Clefable, Jirachi, and Skarmory. All of these factors suggest that Tentacruel may only have fringe viability in DPP OU.

[SET]
name: Defensive Rapid Spin
move 1: Rapid Spin
move 2: Surf
move 3: Toxic Spikes
move 4: Sludge Bomb / (added spaces before/after slash) Knock Off
item: Black Sludge
ability: Liquid Ooze
nature: Calm
evs: 244 HP / 100 Def / 164 SpD

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Rapid Spin is Tentacruel's most important move -- it clears the field of entry hazards. Surf provides Tentacruel with a reliable attack to check threats weak to Water, such as Gliscor, Heatran, Infernape, Nidoqueen, and Hippowdon. Despite Tentacruel's mediocre Special Attack, Surf 2HKOes Infernape and offensive Heatran, and it can even OHKO the former if it is running a Special Defense-reducing nature. Naive Infernape. It 3HKOes most variants of Hippowdon, 2HKOes the physically defensive versions, and 2HKOes most variants of Nidoqueen. Toxic Spikes is the most common move in the third slot, third move, as Tentacruel is one of the few Pokemon with access to them. it. It helps to cripple grounded offensive threats such as Tyranitar, Swampert, and Infernape while also helping against defensive Pokemon like Quagsire, Hippowdon, Milotic, and Blissey. and defensive Pokemon alike such as Tyranitar, Swampert, Quagsire, and Hippowdon. Sludge Bomb helps overcome Tentacruel's passivity against Breloom by OHKOing it and can help Breloom, OHKOing it, and can spread status to Toxic Spikes-immune Pokemon like Latias, Gyarados, and Dragonite. Knock Off is another fantastic choice to make up for its Tentacruel's general passivity; this it can be critical to help wear wearing down defensive Pokemon by removing Leftovers while also crippling Choiced Leftovers, as well as crippling Choice item attackers trying to take advantage of exploit Tentacruel such as Flygon, Gyarados, Swampert, and Tyranitar. Knock Off also has excellent synergy with Toxic Spikes, preventing Leftovers from reducing poison damage.

Set Details
========
Black Sludge is used to give Tentacruel passive recovery, and to offset sand chip. Black Sludge gives Tentacruel passive recovery and offsets sand chip damage. Unlike Leftovers, it also dissuades Trick users such as Rotom-A, Metagross, and Latias as it damages them. The given EV spread and nature let Tentacruel avoid the 2HKO from offensive Timid Heatran's Earth Power after Stealth Rock if Heatran is running a Timid Nature. The remaining EVs are dumped into Defense to make up for Tentacruel's low Defense stat, letting it better take physical Fighting-type attacks. Alternatively, a Bold nature with a spread of 252 HP / 224 Def / 32 Spe could be used to improve Tentacruel's ability to switch in on physical attacks, as its Special Defense is already quite good. On the spread with the Bold Nature, Here, 32 Speed EVs allow Tentacruel to outrun maximum Speed Tyranitar.

Usage Tips
========
Tentacruel's unique palette of resistances allows it to switch into common Water-, Fire-, Ice-, and Fighting-type attacks effectively, especially if they are Choiced from Choice item attackers such as Choice Specs Latias locked into Surf, Choice Scarf Tyranitar locked into using Pursuit or Superpower, and Choice Specs Zapdos locked into using Heat Wave or Hidden Power Ice. Tentacruel preys on Pokemon such as bulky Water-types bar Swampert, Fire-types such as Heatran, Infernape, Heatran and Infernape, and bulky walls that can't status it, such as Skarmory, some Blissey, and some defensive Jirachi. In return, Tentacruel threatens It uses these Pokemon to remove entry hazards, set up Toxic Spikes, and spread hit more foes with Knock Off. However, Tentacruel is vulnerable to all entry hazards and sand, and as such, needs to be carefully switching around sand; therefore, it can't be switching around too cavalierly to remove entry hazards, (AC) lest it be too weakened and overwhelmed. This weakness is exacerbated by its lack of recovery. Tentacruel typically enjoys switching in early to establish Toxic Spikes and spread Knock Off, as well as checking threats while it is healthy, (AC) and then coming in conservatively afterwards to maintain health for an emergency Rapid Spin. This emergency Rapid Spin is especially effective against defensive teams that lack Rotom-A, as many of their members are passive and don't damage it Tentacruel outside of entry hazards. Tentacruel It can even use Toxic Spikes or Rapid Spin against Clefable in a pinch. However, keeping it in against Clefable means Tentacruel risks getting hit by Knock Off and losing its Black Sludge, or getting paralyzed by or Thunder Wave, so Wave. Generally, with its physical frailty and tendency to get worn down, (I imagine this checks out? if not, pls clarify) using other Pokemon as points of entry to get Tentacruel in is generally advised.

Team Options
========
Tentacruel fits best on specific teams that benefit from its the specific set of roles that it compresses. Though it is an equally rare sight in the tier, Abomasnow absolutely loves having Tentacruel as a partner. It appreciates Tentacruel resisting Fighting and Fire-type attacks, and Fire alongside clearing Toxic Spikes and Stealth Rock. In turn, Abomasnow can switch in on Ground-type attacks, and it easily scares out Ground-types like Gliscor and Flygon that threaten Tentacruel. The duo of Tentacruel and Abomasnow is great against most Water-types, with the exception of Gyarados. Hippowdon is another great partner, as it loves having Toxic Spikes cleared, and it appreciates them Toxic Spikes being laid down so that it can have to give it an easier time stalling out the opposition. Magnezone is a nice partner to can remove Skarmory and Forretress early on to limit the amount number of times Tentacruel needs to remove Spikes. Latias and Zapdos are good partners for their ability to can switch in on Ground-type attacks and force out the likes of Gliscor and Flygon, and can be great abusers of Toxic Spikes themselves. their instant recovery lets them take great advantage of Toxic Spikes. (if i'm missing the point, pls clarify) Substitute + (added spaces around +) Roost Zapdos is particularly synergetic particularly has synergy with Toxic Spikes, potentially stalling out Pokemon like Tyranitar, Swampert, (AC) and Hippowdon that would otherwise check it. Their access to reliable recovery in Recover and Roost respectively means that they can be more reliable Fighting-type and, in Latias's case, Fire-type, resists, ensuring Tentacruel isn't over-relied on and can focus on its job of clearing entry hazards and setting Toxic Spikes Zapdos. Both Pokemon's reliable recovery also makes them reliable answers to Fighting-type and, in Latias's case, Fire-type attacks, making sure Tentacruel isn't overburdened and letting it focus on managing entry hazards. Specially Defensive Jirachi also makes for a good partner so that defensive Jirachi ensures Tentacruel won't be overwhelmed by special attacking threats attackers while being effective with Toxic Spikes due to Iron Head flinching and Wish stalling. Clefable is also an excellent partner, as it greatly appreciates Toxic Spikes wearing down would-be checks and making it easier to stall out said Pokemon. Tentacruel can also lure in and Knock Off opposing Clefable and cripple it with Knock Off, meaning that Clefable can potentially drop Knock Off in its own moveset itself and use another support move, such as Encore, Thunder Wave, Stealth Rock, or even Heal Bell. The reverse also can be done, with Clefable running Knock Off so Tentacruel can run Sludge Bomb or Ice Beam instead. Calm Mind Clefable, as well as other special attackers, especially likes Toxic Spikes, as it cripples checks special tanks and walls (I imagine this works?) like Tyranitar, Blissey, and Swampert.

Tentacruel is an excellent support choice (are you sure you want "excellent choice" for a pokemon that "may only have fringe viability"? consider rewording) for many grounded walls that enjoy Toxic Spikes support. Blissey appreciates Tentacruel's ability to remove entry hazards, Rapid Spin, as one of Blissey's primary faults as a wall is its vulnerability to all entry hazards, especially Spikes, that makes it more difficult to function. Blissey can in turn use Wish to heal up Tentacruel, thus mitigating Tentacruel's proclivity to getting worn down. In a similar way, Similarly, Celebi appreciates entry hazard removal and Tentacruel's ability to switch into special Fire alongside Tentacruel switching into special Fire- and Ice-type attacks; Celebi and Tentacruel work well together against almost all Water-types as well. As a fellow Grass-type, Breloom also appreciates Tentacruel's resistance palette and enjoys Rapid Spin support, while and in turn, Breloom can break through Pokemon like Blissey, Clefable, Hippowdon, Tyranitar, and Swampert that can wear down or flat out KO Tentacruel. Swords Dance Breloom is especially good at wallbreaking for Tentacruel, as passive Pokemon and Ground-types gives give it easy set up. setup chances. Though an uncommon sight, Lunar Dance Cresselia also makes for a good partner to Tentacruel, as it can heal Tentacruel of status and bring it back to full health in a pinch; it can also switch in on Ground-type attacks and paralyze Pokemon like Jirachi, Latias, Heatran, Lucario, and Infernape to make staying in on said Pokemon easier for Tentacruel. it easier for Tentacruel to stay in on said Pokemon.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============

Ice Beam is a decent option to OHKO Flygon, Gliscor, and Dragonite while chipping Latias and Breloom. However, it is hard to fit due to the value of Tentacruel's other moves such as Toxic Spikes, Sludge Bomb, and Knock Off. Hidden Power Electric may seem appealing to let Tentacruel hit __KO (whichever of "OHKO" or "2HKO" is appropriate) Gyarados, but due to its weakness to Earthquake and many Gyarados using Wacan Berry, it can struggle to pull it that off. Hydro Pump could be used to can help Tentacruel push past spinblockers like Rotom and Gengar easier, more easily, 2HKOing the latter and offensive versions of the former. With 68 Special Attack EVs, it can even 2HKO defensive versions of Rotom-A in sand after Stealth Rock. However, the extra PP of Surf is generally more beneficial. Mirror Coat could be used to take advantage of Tentacruel's massive Special Defense stat, taking powerful special attacks and then seriously denting the opposing Pokemon back, if not outright KOing them.

Checks and Counters
===================

**Ground-types**: Tentacruel's low physical bulk and Poison typing make it a Water-type that can't switch into physical Ground-types. Many physical Earthquake-using (idk if id call nidoqueen a "physical ground-type", even if it does run eq) Ground-types such as Flygon, Swampert, Gliscor, Quagsire, Nidoqueen, and Hippowdon can severely damage if not outright KO Tentacruel with Earthquake. However, with Surf and potentially Ice Beam, Tentacruel can deal heavy damage to Ground-types.

**Clefable**: Clefable is the hardest counter to Tentacruel available, as it is immune to passive damage with Magic Guard, shrugs off Surf with ease thanks to its high HP and Special Defense, and can use Knock Off itself to remove Tentacruel's Black Sludge. Calm Mind sets can also set up on Tentacruel with impunity, but Tentacruel can only threaten a Knock Off itself.

**Passive Damage**: Tentacruel is vulnerable to all of Spikes, Stealth Rock, and sand while lacking reliable recovery and as such recovery, and it must switch in through said entry hazards to spin, and thus it (I imagine this makes sense?) gets worn down very easily.

**Electric-types**: Rotom-A and Zapdos easily 2HKO Tentacruel and are immune to Toxic Spikes while shrugging off Surf. Rotom-A is especially difficult to deal with, as it is immune to Rapid Spin. Both do not enjoy taking Knock Off, however.

**Strong Physical Attacks**: Tentacruel's low physical bulk means it struggles with most physical attackers of the tier, especially if it can't hit them super effectively. All of Tyranitar, Swampert, Flygon, Metagross, Dragonite, Gyarados, Lucario, (AC) and Gliscor won't have many issues overwhelming Tentacruel.

**Setup Sweepers**: Tentacruel's passivity means that sweepers can often switch in on it and set up, such as Calm Mind Jirachi, Dragon Dance Gyarados, and Calm Mind Clefable. Dragonite can also set up on it should Dragonite have a Yache Berry or Tentacruel lacks Ice Beam, and KO it back it can KO Tentacruel with Earthquake and Outrage. (added linebreak under)

[CREDITS]
- Written by: [[Cubic Skunk, 527292]]
- Quality checked by: [[DeepBlueC, 307789], [johnnyg2, 57904]]
- Grammar checked by: [[Finland, 517429]]

1/1

 

[Cubic Skunk]

Just implemented your changes. I reworded "their instant recovery lets them take great advantage of Toxic Spikes." to " their best checks being vulnerable to poisoning combined with their instant recovery let them take great advantage of Toxic Spikes." to expand a bit on why they are good toxic spikes abusers. The main reason they like toxic spikes support is because toxic spikes hit and cripple the pokemon they struggle most against, most notably tyranitar, but also swampert and hippowdon. Instant recovery definitely makes stalling out those pokemon much easier for latias and zapdos though, and it is a great thing for them in general. Thanks a lot for the GP!

Ready for Upload

 

[Adeleine]

Just implemented your changes. I reworded "their instant recovery lets them take great advantage of Toxic Spikes." to " their best checks being vulnerable to poisoning combined with their instant recovery let them take great advantage of Toxic Spikes." to expand a bit on why they are good toxic spikes abusers. The main reason they like toxic spikes support is because toxic spikes hit and cripple the pokemon they struggle most against, most notably tyranitar, but also swampert and hippowdon. Instant recovery definitely makes stalling out those pokemon much easier for latias and zapdos though, and it is a great thing for them in general. Thanks a lot for the GP!

Ready for Upload

and their best checks being vulnerable to Poisoning lets them take great advantage of Toxic Spikes poison, (AC) combined with their own instant recovery, (AC) lets them take great advantage of Toxic Spikes.

pls be careful when adding changes and saying it's ready for upload before having GP review the changes; minor mistakes can be fixed and all post-upload, but this almost got uploaded to public with "lets them take great advantage of Toxic Spikes" being twice in the same sentence lol

(edit: if it wasn't clear, you're good now. you can do minor changes without our review before marking ready to upload, just be real careful when you do them to avoid mistakes)

 

[Cubic Skunk]

sorry about that lol. i must have not caught it when I was looking it over. I just implemented the change. I'll wait to mark it as ready for upload until its been looked over again