Monotype Mega Sableye (Dark)

roman

Banned deucer.


qc: torkool / misaka mikoto / illama
gp: the dutch plumberjack / cryogyro

[OVERVIEW]

Dark
========

Mega Sableye's ability, Magic Bounce, allows it to shut down entry hazard setters such as Chansey and Ferrothorn and support teammates by switching in to prevent status such as Toxic. This is especially useful against bulkier teams, as Mega Sableye's teammates get worn down extremely easily without it. Access to Will-O-Wisp in conjunction with Prankster before it Mega Evolves also allows it to cripple physical attackers such as Mega Gallade and Landorus-T. Mega Sableye's Ghost typing gives it an important immunity to Fighting, which allows it to come in on Fighting-types such as Hawlucha and Terrakion and other Pokemon locked into Fighting-type attacks. Furthermore, Mega Sableye has solid defensive stats along with reliable recovery, allowing it to wall offensive threats such as Nidoking. It can also stall out bulky Pokemon such as Porygon2 and Mantine by running Toxic over Foul Play. Any entry hazards, though, especially Toxic Spikes, seriously compromise Mega Sableye's ability to wall Pokemon and provide utility. Mega Sableye's passive nature also allows Pokemon such as Calm Mind Suicune to set up on it and prevents it from doing much work against offensive teams. Mega Sableye is a huge momentum drain and can even have competition with other Mega Evolutions such as Mega Sharpedo for players hoping to keep up momentum. Mega Sharpedo can also wallbreak and can beat Fighting-types that Mega Sableye can't deal with such as Keldeo, and Mega Tyranitar can give you favorable matchups against Flying and Fairy. Pokemon immune to burn such as Volcarona and wallbreakers such as Mega Charizard Y can blow right past Mega Sableye.

[SET]
name: Utility
move 1: Knock Off
move 2: Will-O-Wisp
move 3: Recover
move 4: Foul Play
item: Sablenite
ability: Prankster
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 112 Def / 144 SpD

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

Knock Off allows Mega Sableye to cripple Pokemon that rely on their item such as Chansey. Will-O-Wisp allow Mega Sableye to cripple physical attackers. Foul Play discourages all physical setup from Pokemon such as Mega Scizor. Recover gives Mega Sableye reliable recovery, allowing it to switch into entry hazards and weaker attacks without being worn down as easily.

Set Details
========

Maximum HP allow Mega Sableye to maximize its bulk. 144 Special Defense EVs with a Careful nature allow Mega Sableye to soak up attacks from Pokemon such as Sheer Force Nidoking. 112 Defense EVs let Mega Sableye switch into threatening Pokemon such as Choice Scarf Terrakion. Prankster allows Sableye to hit offensive Pokemon with a priority Will-O-Wisp before it Mega Evolves. Sableye needs Sablenite to Mega Evolve.

Usage Tips
========

In some matchups, it can be very beneficial to lead with Sableye and Mega Evolve right away so you can later freely switch it in to prevent entry hazards from Pokemon such as Chansey and Skarmory. It also outright beats other common leads such as Cobalion and Shuckle. Switch Mega Sableye into common hazard setters such as Ferrothorn and Toxapex to bounce back hazards, and switch it into status users such as Gastrodon and Zapdos to cripple them. Preserve Mega Sableye's health and play carefully against types such as Fighting and Normal, where it is extremely important to check threatening Pokemon or prevent hazards. Use Will-O-Wisp liberally against teams with multiple strong physical attackers, as the opponent might try doubling into one. However, keep in mind that the opponent might switch in a wall that appreciates being burned instead of badly poisoned or into a Fire-type such as Volcarona. Other Pokemon, such as Heatran, can switch in freely to take advantage of Flash Fire if Mega Sableye uses Will-O-Wisp. Make sure to prioritize Knock Off over other moves against Pokemon that rely on their item such as Porygon2 and offensive threats like Choice Band Tapu Bulu. Use Recover liberally, as a worn-down Mega Sableye loses its ability to check threats. Use Foul Play against setup Pokemon such as Hawlucha and Mega Pinsir. However, be careful against teams carrying Pokemon with the ability Justified, as they might try to switch in for the free Attack boost.

Team Options
========

Mandibuzz can use Defog to remove hazards that lower Mega Sableye's defensive potential and can switch into threats such as Mega Lopunny and Choice-locked Pokemon such as Choice Scarf Tapu Bulu and Choice Band Diggersby. Tyranitar has access to Stealth Rock to wear down sweepers and beats extremely threatening setup sweepers such as Volcarona, which fearlessly sets up against Mega Sableye. Greninja is a great offensive check to Pokemon such as Keldeo and Tapu Koko. Alolan Muk supports Mega Sableye by pressuring Fairy-types such as Clefable and Tapu Koko. Bisharp takes out problematic Fairy-types such as Clefable, while Mega Sableye blocks status moves such as Will-O-Wisp and Thunder Wave aimed at Bisharp. Bisharp can also pressure Defoggers that can freely pivot and use Defog against Mega Sableye with its ability Defiant. Krookodile can set up Stealth Rock to pressure the opposition, and Mega Sableye can spinblock for it. Krookodile can also beat defensive Pokemon such as Toxapex, which trouble Mega Sableye. Choice Specs Hydreigon can take out Pokemon that threaten Mega Sableye such as Mega Venusaur and Heatran. Choice Scarf Flash Cannon Hydreigon can take out other threats such as Mega Diancie.

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

Dark
--------
Fake Out allows Mega Sableye to safely Mega Evolve at any point in the battle. However, Mega Sableye's low Attack stat prevents it from doing anything else, whereas Foul Play lets it pressure physical setup sweepers. Toxic can enable Mega Sableye to wear down defensive threats such as Porygon2, but Foul Play will generally be more useful and other teammates like Mandibuzz and Alolan Muk can easily provide this status move instead. A set of Calm Mind / Will-O-Wisp / Recover and Shadow Ball or Dark Pulse with a physically defensive spread of 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD with a Bold nature turns Mega Sableye into a potent setup sweeper. However, Calm Mind only worsens Mega Sableye's inability to counter wallbreakers and completely falls on its face against types such as Water and Poison, where Foul Play would be preferred.

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

Dark
--------
**Mold Breaker Pokemon**: Mold Breaker users such as Excadrill can set up entry hazards against Mega Sableye and even cripple it with Toxic. Setup sweepers with access to Mold Breaker Taunt such as Mega Gyarados threaten it as well.

**Fairy-types**: Fairy-types such as Mega Diancie and Tapu Koko can easily beat Mega Sableye one-on-one or outright KO it after some prior chip damage.

**Special Setup Sweepers**: Setup sweepers such as Quiver Dance Volcarona and Calm Mind Suicune can freely set up on Mega Sableye.

**Wallbreakers**: Wallbreakers such as Choice Specs Keldeo, Choice Band Diggersby, and Mega Charizard Y tear through Mega Sableye with a bit of prior chip damage.

**Toxic Spikes**: Toxic Spikes from Pokemon such as Toxapex and Nidoqueen greatly threaten Mega Sableye, as poison wears it down very easily, especially in conjunction with other entry hazards.
 
Last edited:

Moosical

big yikes
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Overview
* Access to Will-O-Wisp in conjunction with Prankster before it mega evolves allows Sableye to cripple physical attackers such as Heracross and Landorus-T with priority Will-O-Wisp.
- Heracross can run guts, pick a different physical attacker
* Mega Sableye's Dark / Ghost typing gives it an important immunity to Fighting that allows it to come in on Fighting-types such as Cobalion and Terrakion and other Pokemon locked into Fighting-type attacks.
- Cobalion doesn't run fighting attacks (except on steel which is very uncommon), msab counters it because of magic bounce, not necessarily its typing; pick a different example.
* Mega Sableye's passive nature allows set up Pokemon such as Calm Mind Clefable and Suicune to set up on it.
- I don't think calm mind clefable is relevant enough, just use volcarona as the example
* Mega Sableye is a huge momentum drain and can even have competition with other mega Pokemon such as Mega Sharpedo for players hoping to keep up momentum.
- You need to explain more in detail why losing mega sharpedo is a downside besides momentum.

Set
Reorder so that recover is 3rd and foul play is last - adjust in moves section as well.

Set Details
* 144 SpD EVs allows Mega Sableye to soak up attacks from Pokemon such as Sheer Force Nidoking.
- "144 SpD EVs with a Careful nature"
* An alternate EV spread of 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD can be used on Calm Mind Mega Sableye.
- This shouldn't be here, only in the OO section

Usage Tips
- First off, make sure you have the tips in a good order for readability. For example, talking about protect shouldn't go until the end considering it's not even on the main set.
* Switch Mega Sableye into common hazard setters such as Ferrothorn and Toxapex to prevent hazards.
- Talk about switching into status within this statement as well and say bounce back instead of prevent.
* Preserve Mega Sableye's and play carefully against types such as Fighting and Normal where it is extremely important to check threatening Pokemon or prevent hazards.
- Preserve its what? health?
* Use Will-O-Wisp freely, as the opponent may try to double into a strong physical wallbreaker on a predicted Recover. However, try not to burn bulky Pokemon such as Porygon2 that you would rather Toxic with Mega Sableye or a teammate such as Mandibuzz. However, be careful when using Will-O-Wisp, as if the opponent has a threatening Fire-type such as Volcarona it could potentially end up getting a free turn of set up.
- This statement is really wordy, you can shorten it a ton and still get the same point across.
- Talk about when to use foul play in general

Rest looks ok for now. QC 1/3
 
Last edited:
qc: torkool / x / x
gp: x / x

[OVERVIEW]

Dark
========

* Mega Sableye's ability, Magic Bounce, allows it to deny hazard setters such as Chansey and Ferrothorn and can support teammates by switching in to prevent status such as Toxic. Try briefly describing how this is a big deal for Dark.
* Access to Will-O-Wisp in conjunction with Prankster before it mega evolves allows Sableye to cripple physical attackers such as Mega Gallade and Landorus-T with priority Will-O-Wisp.
* Mega Sableye's Dark / Ghost typing gives it an important immunity to Fighting that allows it to come in on Fighting-types such as Hawlucha and Terrakion and other Pokemon locked into Fighting-type attacks. I personally don’t like the Hawlucha example. It’s not a very relevant mon in the meta and it can simply sub on a willo or knock off.
* Furthermore, Mega Sableye has access to great 50 / 125 / 115 defensive stats along with reliable recovery, allowing it to wall offensive threats such as Nidoking. It can also stall out bulky Pokemon such as Porygon2 and Mantine by running Toxic over Foul Play. A bit picky, but I’d say good instead of great. 50 HP just leaves a lot to be desired.
* Any hazards, especially Toxic Spikes, seriously compromise Mega Sableye's ability to wall Pokemon and provide utility. Re-iterate how it can come in on Pokemon setting these hazards, though.
* Mega Sableye's passive nature allows set up Pokemon such as Calm Mind Suicune to set up on it. I’d reword this and just mention how it can give certain mons setup opportunities.
* Mega Sableye is a huge momentum drain and can even have competition with other mega Pokemon such as Mega Sharpedo for players hoping to keep up momentum. Mega Sharpedo can also wallbreak opposing teams for Pokemon such as Choice Scarf Greninja to clean and can beat Fighting-types such as Keldeo that Mega Sableye can't deal with. Also briefly mention opportunity cost of Mega Tyranitar as well.
* Pokemon immune to burn such as Volcarona and wallbreakers such as Mega Charizard Y can blow right past Mega Sableye.

[SET]
name: utility
move 1: Knock Off
move 2: Will-O-Wisp
move 3: Recover
move 4: Foul Play
item: Sablenite
ability: Prankster
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 112 Def / 144 SpD

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

* Knock Off allows Mega Sableye to cripple Pokemon who rely on their item, such as Chansey.
* Will-O-Wisp allow Mega Sableye to cripple physical attackers. You’ve used the word cripple a lot. Try changing it up.
* Foul Play discourages all physical set up from Pokemon such as Mega Scizor.
* Recover gives Mega Sableye reliable recovery, allowing it to switch in to hazards and weaker attacks without having to be worn down as easily. Recover allows it to last throughout the entire game, keeping the pressure with Magic Bounce.

Set Details
========

* Maximum HP allows Mega Sableye to maximize its bulk.
* 144 SpD EVs with a Careful nature allows Mega Sableye to soak up attacks from Pokemon such as Sheer Force Nidoking.
* 112 Def EVs lets Mega Sableye switch in to threatening Pokemon such as Choice Scarf Terrakion.
* Mention Prankster being useful in certain situations before Mega Evolving.
* Explain why a careful nature is preferred.
* Sableye needs Sablenite to Mega Evolve.


Usage Tips
========

* In some matchups, it can be very beneficial to lead Sableye and mega evolve so later in the game you can freely switch in to prevent hazards from Pokemon such as Chansey and Skarmory. It also outright beats other common leads such as Cobalion and Shuckle.
* Switch Mega Sableye into common hazard setters such as Ferrothorn and Toxapex to bounce back hazards. Also switch into status users such as Gastrodon and Zapdos to cripple them. I would make the last sentence a separate usage tip entirely, and then merge the rest together since Chansey, Skarmory, Shuckle, and Cobalion are all hazard setters that Sableye stops.
* Preserve Mega Sableye's health and play carefully against types such as Fighting and Normal where it is extremely important to check threatening Pokemon or prevent hazards.
* Use Will-O-Wisp liberally against teams with multiple strong physical attackers as the opponent might try doubling into one. However, keep in mind that the opponent might switch in a wall that appreciates being burned instead of Toxic’d or a Pokemon immune to burn, such as Volcarona.
* Make sure to prioritize Knock Off over other moves against Pokemon such as Porygon2 which rely on their item.
* Recover liberally throughout a match, as a worn down Mega Sableye compromises its ability to check threats. Same word again.
* Use Foul Play against set up Pokemon such as Hawlucha and Mega Pinsir. However, be careful against teams carrying Pokemon with the ability Justified, as they might try to switch in for the free attack boost.
* In some matchups, it can be very beneficial to lead Sableye and mega evolve so later in the game you can freely switch in to prevent hazards from Pokemon such as Chansey and Skarmory. It also outright beats other common leads such as Cobalion and Shuckle. Probs a mistake on your part but you mentioned this exact point in the first line.
* Mega Sableye can scout opposing Pokemon with Protect as well as mega evolve against threats such as Tapu Koko so you can utilize magic bounce instantly later on in the game. It can deal with dangerous choiced pokemon such as Diggersby by switching to a Pokemon immune to the attack Diggersby uses. Mention Fake Out as well.

Team Options
========

* Mandibuzz can Defog hazards that lower Mega Sableye's defensive potential and can switch in to threats such as Mega Lopunny and Choice locked Pokemon such as Choice Scarf Tapu Bulu and Choice Band Diggersby.
* Tyranitar has access to Stealth Rock to wear down sweepers and beats extremely threatening set up sweepers such as Volcarona which sets up all over Mega Sableye.
* Greninja is a great offensive check to Pokemon such as Keldeo and Tapu Koko which threaten Mega Sableye.
* Alolan Muk supports Mega Sableye by pressuring Fairy-types such as Clefable and Tapu Koko which threaten Mega Sableye.
* Bisharp takes out problematic Fairies such as Clefable for Mega Sableye while the latter blocks status such as Burn and Paralysis aimed at Bisharp. Mention how it can pressure defoggers that can come in on Mega Sab thanks to Defiant.
* Krookodile can set up Stealth Rock to pressure the opposition and Mega Sableye can spin block for it. It can also KO defensive Pokemon such as Toxapex which trouble Mega Sableye. Earthquake does not KO. Use the word “beat” instead.
* Choice Specs Hydreigon can take out Pokemon that threaten Mega Sableye such as Mega Venusaur and Heatran. Other sets such as Choice Scarf Flash Cannon Hydreigon can take out threats such as Mega Diancie.

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

Dark
--------
* Protect allows Mega Sableye to safely lead every game and lets the team properly play around choice locked Pokemon such as Choice Band Diggersby without being forced to rely on prediction.
* Similar to Protect, Fake Out also allows Mega Sableye to safely Mega Evolve at any point in the battle. However, it can't scout other move sets at all. But it can Mega Evolve safely on mons like Volcarona without fearing setup.
* Toxic Mega Sableye wears down defensive threats such as Porygon2.
* A set of Calm Mind / Will-O-Wisp / Recover / Dark Pulse Shadow Ball and a physically defensive spread of 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD with a Bold Nature turns Mega Sableye into a potent set up sweeper.

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

Dark
--------
**Mold Breaker Pokemon**: Mold Breaker Pokemon such as Excadrill can set up hazards such as Stealth Rock against it and even cripple it with Toxic. Briefly mention Mega Gyarados as well and how it can taunt it.

**Fairy-types**: Fairy types such as Mega Diancie and Tapu Koko can easily 1v1 Mega Sableye or outright KO it after some prior chip damage.

**Setup Sweepers**: Set up sweepers such as Quiver Dance Volcarona and Calm Mind Suicune can set up all over Mega Sableye.

**Wallbreakers**: Wallbreakers such as Choice Specs Keldeo, Choice Band Diggersby, and Mega Charizard Y tear through Mega Sableye with a bit of prior chip damage.

**Toxic Spikes**: Toxic Spikes set from Pokemon such as Toxapex and Nidoqueen greatly threaten Mega Sableye as they wear it down very easily, especially in conjunction with other hazards.
AM check here. You don’t have to implement these, but I suggest you do if you agree with them. ^^
 
Overview:
- Mention specifically that Mega Sableye is geared toward balanced teams and not offense due to those passive offensive stats it has.
- Talk about how Mega Sableye is unable to take any advantage whatsoever with Prankster on the turn it Mega Evolves.

Usage Tips:
- Remove the entire comment on Protect and Fake Out. The Usage Tips should mainly focus more towards the above set, nothing on OO's.
- Mega Sableye should be cautious with Will-O-Wisp when there is a presence of a Fire-type because Mega Sableye will certainly give them a free switch (not to mention strengthening Heatran's Fire-type moves thanks to Flash Fire).
- Be more specific with Recover, it's really needed for Mega Sableye to switch into attacks it's able in tanking. Also, talk about Mega Sableye recovering on a predicted switch as well. Something that Mega Sableye can easily threaten out.
- Mega Sableye should be using Knock Off as much as possible to just remove items off threats period. Just beneficial for its team and it has enough bulk (despite its HP being pretty bad) to do it.

Other Options:
- Talk about why Protect isn't used much anymore, literally, it's barely used at all (remove it actually).

QC 2/3
 
Last edited:

iLlama

Nothing personal, I protect my people


qc: torkool / misaka mikoto / x
gp: x / x

[OVERVIEW]

Dark
========

Mega Sableye's ability, Magic Bounce, allows it to deny hazard setters such as Chansey and Ferrothorn and can support teammates by switching in to prevent status such as Toxic. This is especially useful against bulkier teams as Mega Sableye's teammates get worn down extremely easily without it. Access to Will-O-Wisp in conjunction with Prankster before it mega evolves allows Sableye to cripple physical attackers such as Mega Gallade and Landorus-T with priority Will-O-Wisp. Mega Sableye's Dark / Ghost typing gives it an important immunity to Fighting that allows it to come in on Fighting-types such as Hawlucha and Terrakion and other Pokemon locked into Fighting-type attacks. Furthermore, Mega Sableye has access to solid 50 / 125 / 115 defensive stats along with reliable recovery, allowing it to wall offensive threats such as Nidoking. It can also stall out bulky Pokemon such as Porygon2 and Mantine by running Toxic over Foul Play. Any hazards, especially Toxic Spikes, seriously compromise Mega Sableye's ability to wall Pokemon and provide utility. Mega Sableye's passive nature allows set up Pokemon such as Calm Mind Suicune to set up on it. Mega Sableye is a huge momentum drain and can even have competition with other mega Pokemon such as Mega Sharpedo for players hoping to keep up momentum. Mega Sharpedo can also wallbreak opposing teams for Pokemon such as Choice Scarf Greninja to clean and can beat Fighting-types such as Keldeo that Mega Sableye can't deal with. Mega Tyranitar can also flip matchups against types such as Flying and Fairy that Mega Sableye struggles in. Pokemon immune to burn such as Volcarona and wallbreakers such as Mega Charizard Y can blow right past Mega Sableye. Mega Sableye's passive nature also prevents it from doing much work against offensive teams. It doesn't have access to priority Will-O-Wisp on the turn it Mega Evolves either.

Make the points about Mega Sharpedo and Mega Tyranitar much more concise. This is an analysis about Mega Sableye, not the former two.

[SET]
name: Utility
move 1: Knock Off
move 2: Will-O-Wisp
move 3: Recover
move 4: Foul Play
item: Sablenite
ability: Prankster
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 112 Def / 144 SpD

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

Knock Off allows Mega Sableye to cripple Pokemon that rely on their item, such as Chansey. Will-O-Wisp allow Mega Sableye to cripple physical attackers. Foul Play discourages all physical set up from Pokemon such as Mega Scizor. Recover gives Mega Sableye reliable recovery, allowing it to switch in to hazards and weaker attacks without having to be worn down as easily.

Set Details
========

Maximum HP allows Mega Sableye to maximize its bulk. 144 SpD EVs with a Careful nature allows Mega Sableye to soak up attacks from Pokemon such as Sheer Force Nidoking. 112 Def EVs lets Mega Sableye switch in to threatening Pokemon such as Choice Scarf Terrakion. Prankster allows Sableye to hit offensive attackers with a priority Will-O-Wisp before it Mega Evolves. Sableye needs Sablenite to Mega Evolve.

Usage Tips
========

In some matchups, it can be very beneficial to lead Sableye and mega evolve so later in the game you can freely switch in to prevent hazards from Pokemon such as Chansey and Skarmory. It also outright beats other common leads such as Cobalion and Shuckle. Switch Mega Sableye into common hazard setters such as Ferrothorn and Toxapex to bounce back hazards. Also switch into status users such as Gastrodon and Zapdos to cripple them. Preserve Mega Sableye's health and play carefully against types such as Fighting and Normal where it is extremely important to check threatening Pokemon or prevent hazards. Use Will-O-Wisp liberally against teams with multiple strong physical attackers as the opponent might try doubling into one. However, keep in mind that the opponent might switch in a wall that appreciates being burned instead of Toxic’d or a Fire-types immune to burn, such as Volcarona. Other Pokemon, such as Heatran, can switch in freely and take advantage of Flash Fire if Mega Sableye Will-O-Wisps. Make sure to prioritize Knock Off over other moves against Pokemon such as Porygon2 which rely on their item. Also use Knock Off as often as possible, as many Pokemon such as the aforementioned Porygon2 and offensive threats such as Choice Band Tapu Bulu hate having their item removed. Recover liberally throughout a match, as a worn down Mega Sableye compromises its ability to check threats. Use Foul Play against set up Pokemon such as Hawlucha and Mega Pinsir. However, be careful against teams carrying Pokemon with the ability Justified, as they might try to switch in for the free attack boost.

Team Options
========

Mandibuzz can Defog hazards that lower Mega Sableye's defensive potential and can switch in to threats such as Mega Lopunny and Choice locked Pokemon such as Choice Scarf Tapu Bulu and Choice Band Diggersby. Tyranitar has access to Stealth Rock to wear down sweepers and beats extremely threatening set up sweepers such as Volcarona which sets up all over Mega Sableye. Greninja is a great offensive check to Pokemon such as Keldeo and Tapu Koko which threaten Mega Sableye. Alolan Muk supports Mega Sableye by pressuring Fairy-types such as Clefable and Tapu Koko which threaten Mega Sableye. Bisharp takes out problematic Fairies such as Clefable for Mega Sableye while the latter blocks status such as Burn and Paralysis aimed at Bisharp. It can also pressure defoggers that can freely pivot and defog around Mega Sableye with its ability, Defiant. Krookodile can set up Stealth Rock to pressure the opposition and Mega Sableye can spin block for it. It can also beat defensive Pokemon such as Toxapex which trouble Mega Sableye. Choice Specs Hydreigon can take out Pokemon that threaten Mega Sableye such as Mega Venusaur and Heatran. Other sets such as Choice Scarf Flash Cannon Hydreigon can take out threats such as Mega Diancie.

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

Dark
--------
Fake Out allows Mega Sableye to safely Mega Evolve at any point in the battle. Toxic Mega Sableye wears down defensive threats such as Porygon2. A set of Calm Mind / Will-O-Wisp / Recover / Shadow Ball and a physically defensive spread of 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD with a Bold Nature turns Mega Sableye into a potent set up sweeper. The Calm Mind set would utilize either Shadow Ball or Dark Pulse, comes down to preference on what types the player wants to hit. Please explain why these options are not as good as the main set ones, otherwise they look like they could appear there.

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

Dark
--------
**Mold Breaker Pokemon**: Mold Breaker Pokemon such as Excadrill can set up hazards such as Stealth Rock against it and even cripple it with Toxic. Set up sweepers with access to Mold Breaker such as Taunt Mega Gyarados threaten it as well.

**Fairy-types**: Fairy types such as Mega Diancie and Tapu Koko can easily 1v1 Mega Sableye or outright KO it after some prior chip damage.

**Setup Sweepers**: Set up sweepers such as Quiver Dance Volcarona and Calm Mind Suicune can set up all over Mega Sableye.

**Wallbreakers**: Wallbreakers such as Choice Specs Keldeo, Choice Band Diggersby, and Mega Charizard Y tear through Mega Sableye with a bit of prior chip damage.

**Toxic Spikes**: Toxic Spikes set from Pokemon such as Toxapex and Nidoqueen greatly threaten Mega Sableye as they wear it down very easily, especially in conjunction with other hazards.
QC 3/3
oie_rounded_corners (1).gif
 

Lumari

empty spaces
is a Site Content Manageris a Top Social Media Contributoris a Member of Senior Staffis a Community Contributoris a Top Contributoris a Top Smogon Media Contributoris an Administrator Alumnus
TFP Leader
jk dbw can do 2/2

(placeholder)




remove
add / fix (comments); (AC=add comma; RC=remove comma; SC=semicolon)
GP 1/2
[OVERVIEW]

Dark
========

Mega Sableye's ability, Magic Bounce, allows it to deny shut down entry hazard setters such as Chansey and Ferrothorn and can support teammates by switching in to prevent status such as Toxic. This is especially useful against bulkier teams, (AC) as Mega Sableye's teammates get worn down extremely easily without it. Access to Will-O-Wisp in conjunction with Prankster before it Mega Evolves also allows Sableye to cripple physical attackers such as Mega Gallade and Landorus-T with priority Will-O-Wisp. Mega Sableye's Dark / Ghost typing gives it an important immunity to Fighting that allows it to come in on Fighting-types such as Hawlucha and Terrakion and other Pokemon locked into Fighting-type attacks. Furthermore, Mega Sableye has access to solid 50 / 125 / 115 defensive stats along with reliable recovery, allowing it to wall offensive threats such as Nidoking. It can also stall out bulky Pokemon such as Porygon2 and Mantine by running Toxic over Foul Play. Any hazards, though, especially Toxic Spikes, seriously compromise Mega Sableye's ability to wall Pokemon and provide utility. Mega Sableye's passive nature also allows set up Pokemon such as Calm Mind Suicune to set up on it and prevents it from doing much work against offensive teams. Mega Sableye is a huge momentum drain and can even have competition with other Mega Pokemon Evolutions such as Mega Sharpedo for players hoping to keep up momentum. Mega Sharpedo can also wallbreak opposing teams and can beat Fighting-types such as Keldeo that Mega Sableye can't deal with, (AC) and Mega Tyranitar can flip matchups such as Flying and Fairy. Pokemon immune to burn such as Volcarona and wallbreakers such as Mega Charizard Y can blow right past Mega Sableye. Mega Sableye's passive nature also prevents it from doing much work against offensive teams. It doesn't have access to priority Will-O-Wisp on the turn it Mega Evolves either.

[SET]
name: Utility
move 1: Knock Off
move 2: Will-O-Wisp
move 3: Recover
move 4: Foul Play
item: Sablenite
ability: Prankster
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 112 Def / 144 SpD

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

Knock Off allows Mega Sableye to cripple Pokemon that rely on their item, such as Chansey. Will-O-Wisp allow Mega Sableye to cripple physical attackers. Foul Play discourages all physical set up setup from Pokemon such as Mega Scizor. Recover gives Mega Sableye reliable recovery, allowing it to switch in to into entry hazards and weaker attacks without having to be worn down as easily.

Set Details
========

Maximum HP allows allow Mega Sableye to maximize its bulk. 144 SpD Special Defense EVs with a Careful nature allows allow Mega Sableye to soak up attacks from Pokemon such as Sheer Force Nidoking. 112 Defense EVs lets Mega Sableye switch in to into threatening Pokemon such as Choice Scarf Terrakion. Prankster allows Sableye to hit offensive attackers Pokemon with a priority Will-O-Wisp before it Mega Evolves. Sableye needs Sablenite to Mega Evolve.

Usage Tips
========

In some matchups, it can be very beneficial to lead with Sableye and Mega Evolve right away so later in the game you can freely switch it in to prevent entry hazards from Pokemon such as Chansey and Skarmory. It also outright beats other common leads such as Cobalion and Shuckle. Switch Mega Sableye into common hazard setters such as Ferrothorn and Toxapex to bounce back hazards, (AC) Also and switch it into status users such as Gastrodon and Zapdos to cripple them. Preserve Mega Sableye's health and play carefully against types such as Fighting and Normal, (AC) where it is extremely important to check threatening Pokemon or prevent hazards. Use Will-O-Wisp liberally against teams with multiple strong physical attackers, (AC) as the opponent might try doubling into one. However, keep in mind that the opponent might switch in a wall that appreciates being burned instead of Toxic’d badly poisoned or into a Fire-types immune to burn, such as Volcarona. Other Pokemon, such as Heatran, can switch in freely and take advantage of Flash Fire if Mega Sableye uses Will-O-Wisps. Make sure to prioritize Knock Off over other moves against Pokemon such as Porygon2 which that rely on their item. Also use Knock Off as often as possible, as many Pokemon such as the aforementioned Porygon2 and offensive threats such as Choice Band Tapu Bulu hate having their item removed. Use Recover liberally throughout a match, as a worn-down (AH) Mega Sableye compromises loses its ability to check threats. Use Foul Play against set up setup Pokemon such as Hawlucha and Mega Pinsir. However, be careful against teams carrying Pokemon with the ability Justified, as they might try to switch in for the free Attack boost.

Team Options
========

Mandibuzz can use Defog to remove hazards that lower Mega Sableye's defensive potential and can switch in to into threats such as Mega Lopunny and Choice-locked (AH) Pokemon such as Choice Scarf Tapu Bulu and Choice Band Diggersby. Tyranitar has access to Stealth Rock to wear down sweepers and beats extremely threatening set up setup sweepers such as Volcarona, (AC) which sets up all over Mega Sableye. Greninja is a great offensive check to Pokemon such as Keldeo and Tapu Koko which threaten Mega Sableye. Alolan Muk supports Mega Sableye by pressuring Fairy-types such as Clefable and Tapu Koko which threaten Mega Sableye. Bisharp takes out problematic Fairies such as Clefable for Mega Sableye, (AC) while the latter Mega Sableye blocks status moves such as Burn Will-O-Wisp and Paralysis Thunder Wave (or w/e, should be moves though) aimed at Bisharp. It Bisharp can also pressure Defoggers that can freely pivot and Defog around Mega Sableye with its ability (RC) Defiant. Krookodile can set up Stealth Rock to pressure the opposition, (AC) and Mega Sableye can spin block spinblock for it. It Krookodile can also beat defensive Pokemon such as Toxapex, (AC) which trouble Mega Sableye. Choice Specs Hydreigon can take out Pokemon that threaten Mega Sableye such as Mega Venusaur and Heatran. Other sets such as Choice Scarf Flash Cannon Hydreigon can take out threats such as Mega Diancie.

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

Dark
--------
Fake Out allows Mega Sableye to safely Mega Evolve at any point in the battle. However, Mega Sableye's low Attack stat prevents it from doing anything but freely Mega Evolving else, whereas Foul Play lets it pressure physical set up setup sweepers. Toxic can enable Mega Sableye to wear down defensive threats such as Porygon2, but again Foul Play will generally be more useful, (AC) while other teammates can easily make up for provide this status option move instead, such as Mandibuzz and Alolan Muk. A set of Calm Mind / Will-O-Wisp / Recover and Shadow Ball or Dark Pulse with a physically defensive spread of 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD with a Bold nature turns Mega Sableye into a potent set up setup sweeper. However, Calm Mind only worsens Mega Sableye's inability to counter wallbreakers and completely falls on its face against types such as Water and Poison, (AC) where Foul Play would be preferred.

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

Dark
--------
**Mold Breaker Pokemon**: Mold Breaker Pokemon such as Excadrill can set up entry hazards such as Stealth Rock against it Mega Sableye and even cripple it with Toxic. Set up Setup sweepers with access to Mold Breaker such as Taunt such as (makes more sense I think?) Mega Gyarados threaten it as well.

**Fairy-types**: Fairy-types (AH) such as Mega Diancie and Tapu Koko can easily 1v1 beat Mega Sableye one-on-one or outright KO it after some prior chip damage.

**Setup Sweepers**: Set up Setup sweepers such as Quiver Dance Volcarona and Calm Mind Suicune can set up all over Mega Sableye.

**Wallbreakers**: Wallbreakers such as Choice Specs Keldeo, Choice Band Diggersby, and Mega Charizard Y tear through Mega Sableye with a bit of prior chip damage.

**Toxic Spikes**: Toxic Spikes set from Pokemon such as Toxapex and Nidoqueen greatly threaten Mega Sableye, (AC) as they wear it down very easily, especially in conjunction with other entry hazards.
 
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GP 2/2
remove add

[OVERVIEW]

Dark
========

Mega Sableye's ability, Magic Bounce, allows it to shut down entry hazard setters such as Chansey and Ferrothorn and can support teammates by switching in to prevent status such as Toxic. This is especially useful against bulkier teams, as Mega Sableye's teammates get worn down extremely easily without it. Access to Will-O-Wisp in conjunction with Prankster before it Mega Evolves also allows Sableye it to cripple physical attackers such as Mega Gallade and Landorus-T. Mega Sableye's Dark / Ghost typing gives it an important immunity to Fighting, (comma) which that allows it to come in on Fighting-types such as Hawlucha and Terrakion and other Pokemon locked into Fighting-type attacks. Furthermore, Mega Sableye has solid 50 / 125 / 115 defensive stats along with reliable recovery, allowing it to wall offensive threats such as Nidoking. It can also stall out bulky Pokemon such as Porygon2 and Mantine by running Toxic over Foul Play. Any entry hazards, though, especially Toxic Spikes, seriously compromise Mega Sableye's ability to wall Pokemon and provide utility. Mega Sableye's passive nature also allows Pokemon such as Calm Mind Suicune to set up on it and prevents it from doing much work against offensive teams. Mega Sableye is a huge momentum drain and can even have competition with other Mega Evolutions such as Mega Sharpedo for players hoping to keep up momentum. Mega Sharpedo can also wallbreak opposing teams and can beat Fighting-types such as Keldeo that Mega Sableye can't deal with such as Keldeo, and Mega Tyranitar can flip matchups such as give you favorable matchups against Flying and Fairy. Pokemon immune to burn such as Volcarona and wallbreakers such as Mega Charizard Y can blow right past Mega Sableye.

[SET]
name: Utility
move 1: Knock Off
move 2: Will-O-Wisp
move 3: Recover
move 4: Foul Play
item: Sablenite
ability: Prankster
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 112 Def / 144 SpD

[SET COMMENTS]

Moves
========

Knock Off allows Mega Sableye to cripple Pokemon that rely on their item, (comma) such as Chansey. Will-O-Wisp allow Mega Sableye to cripple physical attackers. Foul Play discourages all physical setup from Pokemon such as Mega Scizor. Recover gives Mega Sableye reliable recovery, allowing it to switch into entry hazards and weaker attacks without having to be being worn down as easily.

Set Details
========

Maximum HP allow Mega Sableye to maximize its bulk. 144 Special Defense EVs with a Careful nature allow Mega Sableye to soak up attacks from Pokemon such as Sheer Force Nidoking. 112 Defense EVs lets Mega Sableye switch into threatening Pokemon such as Choice Scarf Terrakion. Prankster allows Sableye to hit offensive Pokemon with a priority Will-O-Wisp before it Mega Evolves. Sableye needs Sablenite to Mega Evolve.

Usage Tips
========

In some matchups, it can be very beneficial to lead with Sableye and Mega Evolve right away so later in the game you can later freely switch it in to prevent entry hazards from Pokemon such as Chansey and Skarmory. It also outright beats other common leads such as Cobalion and Shuckle. Switch Mega Sableye into common hazard setters such as Ferrothorn and Toxapex to bounce back hazards, and switch it into status users such as Gastrodon and Zapdos to cripple them. Preserve Mega Sableye's health and play carefully against types such as Fighting and Normal, where it is extremely important to check threatening Pokemon or prevent hazards. Use Will-O-Wisp liberally against teams with multiple strong physical attackers, as the opponent might try doubling into one. However, keep in mind that the opponent might switch in a wall that appreciates being burned instead of badly poisoned or into a Fire-type, (comma) such as Volcarona. Other Pokemon, such as Heatran, can switch in freely and to take advantage of Flash Fire if Mega Sableye uses Will-O-Wisp. Make sure to prioritize Knock Off over other moves against Pokemon such as Porygon2 that rely on their item such as Porygon2 and offensive threats like Choice Band Tapu Bulu. Also use Knock Off as often as possible, as many Pokemon such as Porygon2 and offensive threats such as Choice Band Tapu Bulu hate having their item removed. Use Recover liberally throughout a match, as a worn-down Mega Sableye loses its ability to check threats. Use Foul Play against setup Pokemon such as Hawlucha and Mega Pinsir. However, be careful against teams carrying Pokemon with the ability Justified, as they might try to switch in for the free Attack boost.

Team Options
========

Mandibuzz can use Defog to remove hazards that lower Mega Sableye's defensive potential and can switch into threats such as Mega Lopunny and Choice-locked Pokemon such as Choice Scarf Tapu Bulu and Choice Band Diggersby. Tyranitar has access to Stealth Rock to wear down sweepers and beats extremely threatening setup sweepers such as Volcarona, which fearlessly sets up all over against Mega Sableye. Greninja is a great offensive check to Pokemon such as Keldeo and Tapu Koko. Alolan Muk supports Mega Sableye by pressuring Fairy-types such as Clefable and Tapu Koko. Bisharp takes out problematic Fairies Fairy-types such as Clefable for Mega Sableye, while Mega Sableye blocks status moves such as Will-O-Wisp and Thunder Wave aimed at Bisharp. Bisharp can also pressure Defoggers that can freely pivot and use Defog around against Mega Sableye with its ability Defiant. Krookodile can set up Stealth Rock to pressure the opposition, and Mega Sableye can spinblock for it. Krookodile can also beat defensive Pokemon such as Toxapex, which trouble Mega Sableye. Choice Specs Hydreigon can take out Pokemon that threaten Mega Sableye such as Mega Venusaur and Heatran. Other sets such as Choice Scarf Flash Cannon Hydreigon can take out other threats such as Mega Diancie.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]

Other Options
=============

Dark
--------
Fake Out allows Mega Sableye to safely Mega Evolve at any point in the battle. However, Mega Sableye's low Attack stat prevents it from doing anything else, whereas Foul Play lets it pressure physical setup sweepers. Toxic can enable Mega Sableye to wear down defensive threats such as Porygon2, but again Foul Play will generally be more useful, (comma) while and other teammates like Mandibuzz and Alolan Muk can easily provide this status move instead, such as Mandibuzz and Alolan Muk. A set of Calm Mind / Will-O-Wisp / Recover and Shadow Ball or Dark Pulse with a physically defensive spread of 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD with a Bold nature turns Mega Sableye into a potent setup sweeper. However, Calm Mind only worsens Mega Sableye's inability to counter wallbreakers and completely falls on its face against types such as Water and Poison, where Foul Play would be preferred.

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

Dark
--------

**Mold Breaker Pokemon**: Mold Breaker Pokemon users such as Excadrill can set up entry hazards such as Stealth Rock against Mega Sableye and even cripple it with Toxic. Setup sweepers with access to Mold Breaker Taunt such as Mega Gyarados threaten it as well.

**Fairy-types**: Fairy-types such as Mega Diancie and Tapu Koko can easily beat Mega Sableye one-on-one or outright KO it after some prior chip damage.

**Special Setup Sweepers**: Setup sweepers such as Quiver Dance Volcarona and Calm Mind Suicune can freely set up all over on Mega Sableye.

**Wallbreakers**: Wallbreakers such as Choice Specs Keldeo, Choice Band Diggersby, and Mega Charizard Y tear through Mega Sableye with a bit of prior chip damage.

**Toxic Spikes**: Toxic Spikes from Pokemon such as Toxapex and Nidoqueen greatly threaten Mega Sableye, as they poison wears it down very easily, especially in conjunction with other entry hazards.
 
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