QC: Eien / SirSkit / Balor
GP: CryoGyro / Snobalt
Approved by scpinion
[OVERVIEW]
**Psychic**:
Slowbro is easily the best option for a physical wall on Psychic-type teams. Its excellent physical bulk allows it to switch into physical attackers, such as Terrakion and Landorus-T, and threaten them with Scald or Thunder Wave. Slowbro's bulk also allows it to tank U-turn, which Psychic-type teams are especially weak to. Because it acts as a blanket check to physical attackers, Slowbro supports offensive Psychic-types really well, as they tend to have a low Defense stat. Slowbro has access to Regenerator, making it a great defensive pivot. It also has access to reliable recovery in Slack Off, making it a great defensive wall in general and maximizing its setup sweeping potential. It has a decent base 100 Special Attack stat for a bulky Water-type; this paired with Slowbro's good coverage moves such as Fire Blast, Grass Knot, and Ice Beam makes it a potent setup sweeper with Calm Mind. However, Slowbro's lackluster Special Defense makes it vulnerable to common special attackers such as Mega Gardevoir, Mega Charizard Y, and Mega Pidgeot. Its useful Water typing allows it to act as a great check to Water-types such as Kingdra and Keldeo, which would otherwise break through Psychic-type teams with their powerful STAB Hydro Pump; however, it adds a weakness to Electric- and Grass-type moves, allowing Pokemon like Thundurus and Breloom to check it effectively. It has a terrible Speed stat, which leaves it outsped by almost the entire metagame and makes it vulnerable to Taunt. Slowbro is also very weak to status ailments such as burn and poison, as they hinder its ability to act as a defensive pivot.
[SET]
name: Colbur Berry
move 1: Scald
move 2: Grass Knot
move 3: Thunder Wave / Fire Blast / Ice Beam
move 4: Slack Off
item: Colbur Berry
ability: Regenerator
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 244 Def / 12 SpD
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Scald is an extremely spammable STAB move due to its chance to burn the foe. Grass Knot is Slowbro's preferred coverage move, which in conjunction with Colbur Berry allows it to handle several threats to Psychic-type teams such as Mega Sharpedo and Mega Gyarados, as well as Pokemon such as Gastrodon and Seismitoad that would otherwise wall Slowbro. Thunder Wave gives Slowbro utility in paralyzing faster Pokemon and Scald switch-ins such as Choice Scarf Victini and Latios, respectively, as well as certain threats such as Mega Sharpedo and Hydreigon. Alternatively, other coverage options can be run; Fire Blast hits Bisharp, Ferrothorn, and Mega Scizor, whereas Ice Beam hits Dragon-types in general. It's fine to drop Thunder Wave, as Slowbro has the coverage to check the Pokemon Thunder Wave targets, primarily Mega Sharpedo. Slack Off is Slowbro's most reliable form of recovery, allowing it to stay healthy enough to check Dark-types.
Set Details
========
The investment in HP and Defense along with a Bold nature allows Slowbro to switch into and check many physical attackers such as Choice Band Terrakion and Mega Gallade. 12 EVs in Special Defense let Slowbro avoid the OHKO from a Choice Specs-boosted Draco Meteor from Kingdra. Colbur Berry allows Slowbro to deal with a plethora of threats to Psychic-type teams; with Colbur Berry, it can revenge kill Mega Gyarados and Mega Sharpedo with Grass Knot, revenge kill Bisharp with Fire Blast, and paralyze Hoopa-U with Thunder Wave without fear of taking significant damage from a Dark-type move. Regenerator heals Slowbro every time it switches out, allowing it to act as a great defensive pivot.
Usage Tips
========
Slowbro should be used as a defensive pivot, switching into physical attackers that it threatens such as Mega Lopunny. With Regenerator, Slowbro can be used to switch into and scout Choice-locked foes with reduced negative repercussions, and then switch back out to the appropriate partner. The Colbur Berry should be preserved in matchups against threats such as Mega Gyarados, Mega Sharpedo, and Hoopa-U. Slowbro should be careful when switching into Mega Sharpedo or Mega Gyarados on a prediction, as losing the Berry early can be a death sentence. Thunder Wave should be used on threats such as Hoopa-U and healthy Mega Sharpedo. It also lets Slowbro neutralize sweepers in an emergency and allow its teammates to deal with them more easily. Grass Knot should be used to deal with Mega Gyarados, as it generally runs Substitute or Taunt, rendering Thunder Wave useless. Slowbro should be wary of weak Dark-type moves from Pokemon like Mandibuzz, as it wastes the Colbur Berry.
In other matchups, it is recommended that Slowbro switch into Knock Off and U-turn users that threaten Psychic-types, such as Choice Scarf Landorus-T and Choice Band Mamoswine, as it can check them exceptionally well with Colbur Berry. Residual damage from entry hazards, status, or previous attacks can prevent Slowbro from checking threats such as Choice Specs Hoopa-U, whose Dark Pulse already almost OHKOs Slowbro even at full HP. Therefore, Slowbro should avoid taking too much damage and use Slack Off liberally to stay healthy. Slowbro shouldn't be left in against setup sweepers that it can't touch, such as Lum Berry Bisharp, which it cannot effectively check without Fire Blast, and Calm Mind Clefable.
Team Options
========
Many frail wallbreakers that are weak to priority moves, particularly Sucker Punch, appreciate Slowbro as a defensive partner. Mega Medicham can break through defensive Pokemon that normally wall or threaten Slowbro such as Chansey and Ferrothorn. Mega Gardevoir, in conjunction with Slowbro, can easily dismantle Dark-type teams. It can also help preserve Slowbro's Colbur Berry by removing weaker Dark-types such as Mandibuzz. Mega Gardevoir also beats many Dragon-types that threaten Slowbro, such as Latios and Dragalge. Choice Scarf Gardevoir can check the same Pokemon in addition to weather sweepers that Slowbro cannot switch into, such as Choice Band Excadrill and Choice Specs Kingdra. Hoopa-U is another wallbreaker that pairs well with Slowbro; the latter can switch in on the priority users that easily revenge kill Hoopa-U, such as Dragonite and Bisharp, and threaten them out with burns or paralysis, while Hoopa-U checks the Ghost-types and defensive walls that threaten Slowbro in return. Victini, especially a Choice Scarf variant, is also a great partner to Slowbro by checking the Grass- and Bug-type Pokemon that threaten Slowbro such as Rotom-C, Heracross, and Volcarona. Choice Scarf Victini can also finish off a weakened Mega Gyarados with Bolt Strike if Slowbro goes down prematurely. Latios and Latias are great partners, as they can Defog away entry hazards, letting Slowbro switch into attacks more easily. This is particularly relevant due to this Slowbro set's lack of passive recovery from Leftovers. Latias can also support Slowbro with Healing Wish. Both Latias and Latios can reliably check Keldeo, which this Slowbro set is worse at due to the lack of Leftovers. Jirachi is a good defensive complement, as it can easily switch into strong special moves that threaten Slowbro out, such as Draco Meteor and Hyper Voice from Latios and Mega Gardevoir, respectively, due to its great defensive typing. As it tends to be setup bait for Mega Scizor and Bisharp, Jirachi appreciates having Fire Blast Slowbro as a partner. Mew is another great defensive Pokemon with access to a variety of utility moves such as Will-O-Wisp, Knock Off, and Taunt. Its stallbreaker set allows it to break through defensive Pokemon that Slowbro cannot touch, such as Chansey and Porygon2. With significant Speed investment, Mew can cripple Bisharp and Mega Gyarados with Will-O-Wisp, lessening the pressure on Slowbro.
[SET]
name: Defensive
move 1: Scald
move 2: Slack Off
move 3: Fire Blast
move 4: Thunder Wave
item: Leftovers / Rocky Helmet
ability: Regenerator
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 232 Def / 24 SpD
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Scald is an extremely spammable Water-type STAB move with a good chance to cripple physical attackers with a burn. Slack Off is Slowbro's most reliable way to recover health, which, when combined with Regenerator, makes Slowbro extremely hard to wear down. Fire Blast gives Slowbro coverage for Steel-type threats such as Mega Scizor, Bisharp, and Ferrothorn. Flamethrower can be used to provide a more accurate option, but it deals significantly less damage to Bisharp. Thunder Wave is a general utility option that is used to cripple common Scald switch-ins such as Hydreigon and Mega Latias, setup sweepers such as Dragonite, and Choice Scarf Pokemon such as Victini and Kyurem-B.
Set Details
========
The investment in HP and Defense with a Bold nature maximizes Slowbro's physical bulk, allowing it to switch into many physical attackers such as Choice Scarf Victini, Terrakion, and Choice Scarf Kyurem-B. 24 EVs in Special Defense are used to avoid the 2HKO from Choice Specs-boosted Hydro Pump from Keldeo after Stealth Rock damage and to survive a Choice Specs-boosted Draco Meteor from Kingdra if at full HP. Leftovers gives Slowbro a form of passive recovery, letting it switch into physical attackers more easily. Rocky Helmet is an option to punish physical attackers and break potential Focus Sashes as well as Dragonite's Multiscale. However, if Rocky Helmet is being used, a spread of 252 HP / 244 Def / 12 SpD should be run, as Slowbro cannot check Keldeo with the listed spread. Rocky Helmet is especially useful in whittling down U-turn users such as Victini and Jirachi. Regenerator continually heals Slowbro whenever it switches out, letting it act as a great defensive pivot.
Usage Tips
========
Slowbro should be used to pivot into physical attackers such as Mega Lopunny and Landorus-T. Regenerator should be taken advantage of to let Slowbro scout Choice-locked foes and switch out to an appropriate partner. Slowbro should spread status through Scald or Thunder Wave, using Thunder Wave on faster threats such as Hydreigon and Latios and Scald on defensive switch-ins such as Porygon2 and Zapdos. By spreading status, these threats become a lot easier for Slowbro's teammates to handle. Slack Off should be used to keep Slowbro as healthy as possible so that it can switch into strong physical attackers such as Choice Band Mamoswine. Using Slack Off when Regenerator would've been sufficient can result in a loss of momentum, however. Slowbro should be kept away from status ailments such as Toxic poison and burns, as they severely hinder its ability to switch into attacks. Therefore, Slowbro shouldn't be used to combat most walls, as they can cripple it with such status. If Rocky Helmet is being used, use its presence to deter opposing users of Fake Out and other priority moves, such as Dragonite and Mega Medicham, from revenge killing teammates, or to prevent U-turn users, such as Victini and Jirachi, from freely gaining momentum. Slowbro shouldn't be left in against Pokemon like Clefable and Mega Gyarados, as it tends to become setup bait.
Team Options
========
Slowbro can fit well on all balanced teams, as it's a great blanket check to most physical attackers. Specially defensive Jirachi forms a great defensive core with Slowbro. Slowbro appreciates Jirachi's great typing and support moves, as it can switch into Fairy-type Pokemon such as Mega Gardevoir, Mega Diancie, and Clefable, can act as a one-time Choice Scarf Heracross switch-in, threatening it with Thunder Wave, and can also support Slowbro with Healing Wish. Jirachi appreciates having Slowbro to switch into certain Fire-type Pokemon such as Darmanitan, Victini, and Entei, as well as Ground-type attacks from Pokemon like Choice Scarf Landorus-T and Choice Band Mamoswine. Mew is a great defensive complement to Slowbro, being able to switch into many special attacks from Pokemon such as Landorus and Mega Gardevoir, which Slowbro doesn't like to do. The stallbreaker variant is particularly helpful in being able to beat defensive Pokemon that Slowbro cannot touch, such as Chansey and Porygon2. Mew can also Defog away entry hazards, allowing Slowbro to switch into attacks more easily. Colbur Berry Celebi can check threats such as Mega Sharpedo and Mega Gyarados. Celebi in general also acts as a great status absorber due to its ability Natural Cure.
Victini is a great partner to Slowbro. The Choice Scarf variant can run through Bug- and Grass-type teams, notably checking threats like Volcarona and Heracross, which threaten Slowbro. It can also revenge kill a weakened +1 Mega Gyarados, which would otherwise use Slowbro as setup fodder. In return, Slowbro can switch into Pokemon that threaten Victini like Choice Scarf Terrakion, Choice Scarf Landorus-T, and specially defensive Tyranitar. Hoopa-U appreciates having Slowbro to absorb the U-turns and Knock Offs that threaten it. In return, variants of Hoopa-U can beat Ghost-type Pokemon like Gengar that threaten Slowbro. The mixed variant with Substitute and Drain Punch in particular can also check Bisharp by playing mind games with Sucker Punch. Hoopa-U can also check stallbreakers such as Gliscor and Mew, along with walls such as Chansey and Porygon2. Mega Medicham appreciates having Slowbro to pivot into physical attackers like Mega Lopunny, which threatens it due to its bad defenses. Conversely, Mega Medicham can easily break through common defensive Pokemon that give Slowbro a hard time, such as Lanturn, Porygon2, and Chansey. Mega Gardevoir is a very strong special wallbreaker that checks Dragon- and Dark-type Pokemon that threaten Slowbro, such as Latios and Hydreigon. Mega Gardevoir can switch into Gyarados prior to Mega Evolution, weakening it by copying Intimidate and threatening it with Hyper Voice. Choice Scarf Gardevoir can also check Dark- and Dragon-types along with weather sweepers that Slowbro cannot switch into, such as Choice Band Excadrill and Choice Specs Kingdra. In return, Slowbro can switch into common Gardevoir checks such as Terrakion and Jirachi. Latios, Latias, and Mega Latias are good partners to Slowbro, as they can Defog away entry hazards, allowing Slowbro to switch into attacks more easily. They also can switch into Electric- and Grass-type attacks with incredible ease, while Slowbro can switch into Ice-type attackers such as Mamoswine and Cloyster. Latias can also support Slowbro with Healing Wish.
[SET]
name: Calm Mind
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Slack Off
move 3: Scald
move 4: Psyshock / Fire Blast
item: Leftovers
ability: Regenerator
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 232 Def / 24 SpD
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Calm Mind boosts Slowbro's Special Defense and Special Attack stats, which helps patch up its low Special Defense and turns it into a potent setup sweeper. Slack Off is Slowbro's most reliable form of recovery and gives it an easier time setting up. Scald is its most spammable STAB move due to its chance to burn the foe. Psyshock allows Slowbro to win Calm Mind wars against other setup sweepers such as Clefable, hits special walls such as Chansey, and gives Slowbro coverage for Fighting- and Poison-types, particularly Mega Venusaur. Fire Blast is an alternative that lets Slowbro break Steel-type teams. It can still be used to somewhat check Mega Venusaur, but it must rely on many more boosts to do so. Flamethrower can also be run due to its higher PP and better accuracy, but the drop in power is significant. Thunder Wave is a utility option that can be run over Psyshock or Fire Blast to cripple Pokemon that Slowbro pivots into, such as Choice Scarf Kyurem-B and Choice Band Terrakion.
Set Details
========
The given EV spread maximizes Slowbro's physical bulk, with enough Special Defense to take two Choice Specs-boosted Hydro Pumps from Keldeo and one Choice Specs-boosted Draco Meteor from Kingdra at full HP. Regenerator is the ability of choice, allowing Slowbro to act as a great defensive pivot by recovering health every time it switches out. Leftovers gives Slowbro a form of passive recovery that lets it switch into attacks more easily.
Usage Tips
========
Slowbro should be used as a defensive pivot early- and mid-game. It should switch into Pokemon such as Mega Lopunny and Choice Scarf Terrakion that it can threaten with Scald or Psyshock. Slowbro should generally set up late-game when its checks, such as Mega Venusaur, are at least weakened so that it can clean up more easily. However, in some situations, Slowbro can set up at other points during the game and weaken some of the checks that generally switch into it such as Zapdos and Mega Venusaur. Slowbro should setup on physical attackers that it walls, such as Mega Lopunny and Terrakion, and Choice-locked Pokemon like Keldeo. Slowbro can bluff a defensive set and threaten Pokemon out with a possible Thunder Wave to create an opportunity to start setting up. Getting Scald burns on Slowbro's checks early-game can be especially effective and makes it easier for it to find setup opportunities. Slowbro utilizes double switches really well with this set, gaining the Regenerator recovery and putting pressure on its checks. Slowbro should always be kept away from status, especially Toxic poison, as it continually whittles Slowbro down, making it harder to sweep successfully.
Team Options
========
Celebi is a great teammate to Slowbro. With a Colbur Berry, Celebi can check several threats that completely wall this set, such as Mega Sharpedo and Mega Gyarados. It can also switch into Electric-type attacks, completely heal Slowbro with Healing Wish, absorb status thanks to Natural Cure, and cleanse Slowbro of status with Heal Bell. Jirachi is another good defensive partner to Slowbro, as it can support it with Healing Wish as well as switch into and check strong Fairy-types that beat Slowbro such as Sylveon, Mega Gardevoir, and Mega Diancie. Victini can take out Slowbro's checks such as Ferrothorn, Heracross, and Volcarona. It can also create more opportunities for Slowbro to set up by bringing it in safely with U-turn. Mew, particularly the stallbreaker variant, can switch into several special attackers that threaten Slowbro and deal with walls that don't allow Slowbro to set up such as Zapdos. Mega Medicham pairs well with Slowbro, as it can get rid of Pokemon that wall Slowbro, such as Ferrothorn, with its strong STAB High Jump Kick. Mega Gardevoir can break through walls and Dark-types that threaten Slowbro, such as Mega Venusaur and Hydreigon, respectively, with its strong STAB moves, allowing Slowbro to set up more easily. Choice Scarf Gardevoir can get rid of weather sweepers such as Excadrill and Kingdra along with Dark- and Dragon-types. Hoopa-U is an extremely strong wallbreaker that can deal with a plethora of threats to Slowbro, such as Mega Venusaur, Zapdos, Ferrothorn, Doublade, and Ghost-types in general with its strong STAB and coverage moves. Latios can help weaken Slowbro's checks and can easily switch into Grass- and Electric-type moves that threaten it. It can also Defog away entry hazards, letting Slowbro take less residual damage before setting up. Gothitelle deserves a mention due to its ability to trap and remove many threats such as Zapdos and walls running Toxic, such as Chansey.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
**Psychic**:
Trick Room is an option over Thunder Wave on slower teams. It can make use of Slowbro's great bulk in order to almost always guarantee it gets set up, and Slowbro can be paired with strong wallbreakers such as Mega Gardevoir, Hoopa-U, and Victini in order to best take advantage of it. Ice Beam is a coverage option that can be used on the defensive set to lure and KO Pokemon like Dragonite and Landorus. Toxic can be considered over Thunder Wave, as it allows Slowbro to whittle down walls such as Chansey that defensive Slowbro cannot touch; however, Psychic-type teams prefer Slowbro crippling faster threats such as Kyurem-B with paralysis, allowing wallbreakers such as Mega Medicham and Latios to clean up more easily.
Checks and Counters
===================
**Psychic**:
**Super Effective Coverage**: Common coverage moves, such as Fusion Bolt from Life Orb Kyurem-B, Solar Beam from Mega Charizard Y, and Thunderbolt from Mega Latias, all deal massive damage to Slowbro, with some even OHKOing it such as Thunderbolt from Thundurus.
**Special Wallbreakers**: Most special wallbreakers, such as Latios, Dragalge, and Mega Gardevoir, can take advantage of Slowbro's mediocre Special Defense and put a dent in it with their strong STAB attacks; however, they hate being paralyzed by Thunder Wave.
**Status**: Status conditions such as burns and Toxic poison limit Slowbro's ability to switch into physical attackers. Toxic in particular puts Slowbro on a timer and prevents it from stalling out Pokemon with Slack Off.
**Stallbreakers**: Stallbreakers like Gliscor and Mew can cripple Slowbro with Taunt, which prevents it from recovering health, inflict status on it, and continually recover health with Roost.
**Grass-types**: Grass-type Pokemon, such as Serperior, Mega Venusaur, and Rotom-C, can switch into Slowbro and OHKO it with their Grass-type STAB moves.
**Electric -types**: Electric-types like Mega Manectric, Magnezone, and Raikou can easily KO Slowbro with their strong Electric-type STAB moves and are immune to Thunder Wave. Volt Switch also allows Electric-types to take advantage of Slowbro and gain momentum.
**Bug-types**: Bug-type Pokemon, such as Volcarona, Scolipede, and Heracross, can deal a huge chunk of damage with their STAB moves; however, most of them do not like switching into Scald.
**Dragon-types**: Dragon-type Pokemon, such as Latios and Hydreigon, aren't bothered by Slowbro's STAB or coverage moves and can retaliate with their own strong STAB moves; however, they need to be wary of Thunder Wave.
**Ghost-types**: Offensive Ghost-types such as Chandelure and Gengar can easily KO Slowbro with their strong STAB Shadow Ball but need to be wary of Thunder Wave. Defensive Ghost-types such as Gourgeist-XL and Jellicent can easily switch into Slowbro and slowly whittle it down with Will-O-Wisp and Toxic, respectively.
**Dark-types**: Dark-type Pokemon such as Hydreigon, Sharpedo, and Hoopa-U can KO Slowbro with their strong Dark-type STAB moves; however, they need to play around the Colbur Berry set.
GP: CryoGyro / Snobalt
Approved by scpinion
[OVERVIEW]
**Psychic**:
Slowbro is easily the best option for a physical wall on Psychic-type teams. Its excellent physical bulk allows it to switch into physical attackers, such as Terrakion and Landorus-T, and threaten them with Scald or Thunder Wave. Slowbro's bulk also allows it to tank U-turn, which Psychic-type teams are especially weak to. Because it acts as a blanket check to physical attackers, Slowbro supports offensive Psychic-types really well, as they tend to have a low Defense stat. Slowbro has access to Regenerator, making it a great defensive pivot. It also has access to reliable recovery in Slack Off, making it a great defensive wall in general and maximizing its setup sweeping potential. It has a decent base 100 Special Attack stat for a bulky Water-type; this paired with Slowbro's good coverage moves such as Fire Blast, Grass Knot, and Ice Beam makes it a potent setup sweeper with Calm Mind. However, Slowbro's lackluster Special Defense makes it vulnerable to common special attackers such as Mega Gardevoir, Mega Charizard Y, and Mega Pidgeot. Its useful Water typing allows it to act as a great check to Water-types such as Kingdra and Keldeo, which would otherwise break through Psychic-type teams with their powerful STAB Hydro Pump; however, it adds a weakness to Electric- and Grass-type moves, allowing Pokemon like Thundurus and Breloom to check it effectively. It has a terrible Speed stat, which leaves it outsped by almost the entire metagame and makes it vulnerable to Taunt. Slowbro is also very weak to status ailments such as burn and poison, as they hinder its ability to act as a defensive pivot.
[SET]
name: Colbur Berry
move 1: Scald
move 2: Grass Knot
move 3: Thunder Wave / Fire Blast / Ice Beam
move 4: Slack Off
item: Colbur Berry
ability: Regenerator
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 244 Def / 12 SpD
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Scald is an extremely spammable STAB move due to its chance to burn the foe. Grass Knot is Slowbro's preferred coverage move, which in conjunction with Colbur Berry allows it to handle several threats to Psychic-type teams such as Mega Sharpedo and Mega Gyarados, as well as Pokemon such as Gastrodon and Seismitoad that would otherwise wall Slowbro. Thunder Wave gives Slowbro utility in paralyzing faster Pokemon and Scald switch-ins such as Choice Scarf Victini and Latios, respectively, as well as certain threats such as Mega Sharpedo and Hydreigon. Alternatively, other coverage options can be run; Fire Blast hits Bisharp, Ferrothorn, and Mega Scizor, whereas Ice Beam hits Dragon-types in general. It's fine to drop Thunder Wave, as Slowbro has the coverage to check the Pokemon Thunder Wave targets, primarily Mega Sharpedo. Slack Off is Slowbro's most reliable form of recovery, allowing it to stay healthy enough to check Dark-types.
Set Details
========
The investment in HP and Defense along with a Bold nature allows Slowbro to switch into and check many physical attackers such as Choice Band Terrakion and Mega Gallade. 12 EVs in Special Defense let Slowbro avoid the OHKO from a Choice Specs-boosted Draco Meteor from Kingdra. Colbur Berry allows Slowbro to deal with a plethora of threats to Psychic-type teams; with Colbur Berry, it can revenge kill Mega Gyarados and Mega Sharpedo with Grass Knot, revenge kill Bisharp with Fire Blast, and paralyze Hoopa-U with Thunder Wave without fear of taking significant damage from a Dark-type move. Regenerator heals Slowbro every time it switches out, allowing it to act as a great defensive pivot.
Usage Tips
========
Slowbro should be used as a defensive pivot, switching into physical attackers that it threatens such as Mega Lopunny. With Regenerator, Slowbro can be used to switch into and scout Choice-locked foes with reduced negative repercussions, and then switch back out to the appropriate partner. The Colbur Berry should be preserved in matchups against threats such as Mega Gyarados, Mega Sharpedo, and Hoopa-U. Slowbro should be careful when switching into Mega Sharpedo or Mega Gyarados on a prediction, as losing the Berry early can be a death sentence. Thunder Wave should be used on threats such as Hoopa-U and healthy Mega Sharpedo. It also lets Slowbro neutralize sweepers in an emergency and allow its teammates to deal with them more easily. Grass Knot should be used to deal with Mega Gyarados, as it generally runs Substitute or Taunt, rendering Thunder Wave useless. Slowbro should be wary of weak Dark-type moves from Pokemon like Mandibuzz, as it wastes the Colbur Berry.
In other matchups, it is recommended that Slowbro switch into Knock Off and U-turn users that threaten Psychic-types, such as Choice Scarf Landorus-T and Choice Band Mamoswine, as it can check them exceptionally well with Colbur Berry. Residual damage from entry hazards, status, or previous attacks can prevent Slowbro from checking threats such as Choice Specs Hoopa-U, whose Dark Pulse already almost OHKOs Slowbro even at full HP. Therefore, Slowbro should avoid taking too much damage and use Slack Off liberally to stay healthy. Slowbro shouldn't be left in against setup sweepers that it can't touch, such as Lum Berry Bisharp, which it cannot effectively check without Fire Blast, and Calm Mind Clefable.
Team Options
========
Many frail wallbreakers that are weak to priority moves, particularly Sucker Punch, appreciate Slowbro as a defensive partner. Mega Medicham can break through defensive Pokemon that normally wall or threaten Slowbro such as Chansey and Ferrothorn. Mega Gardevoir, in conjunction with Slowbro, can easily dismantle Dark-type teams. It can also help preserve Slowbro's Colbur Berry by removing weaker Dark-types such as Mandibuzz. Mega Gardevoir also beats many Dragon-types that threaten Slowbro, such as Latios and Dragalge. Choice Scarf Gardevoir can check the same Pokemon in addition to weather sweepers that Slowbro cannot switch into, such as Choice Band Excadrill and Choice Specs Kingdra. Hoopa-U is another wallbreaker that pairs well with Slowbro; the latter can switch in on the priority users that easily revenge kill Hoopa-U, such as Dragonite and Bisharp, and threaten them out with burns or paralysis, while Hoopa-U checks the Ghost-types and defensive walls that threaten Slowbro in return. Victini, especially a Choice Scarf variant, is also a great partner to Slowbro by checking the Grass- and Bug-type Pokemon that threaten Slowbro such as Rotom-C, Heracross, and Volcarona. Choice Scarf Victini can also finish off a weakened Mega Gyarados with Bolt Strike if Slowbro goes down prematurely. Latios and Latias are great partners, as they can Defog away entry hazards, letting Slowbro switch into attacks more easily. This is particularly relevant due to this Slowbro set's lack of passive recovery from Leftovers. Latias can also support Slowbro with Healing Wish. Both Latias and Latios can reliably check Keldeo, which this Slowbro set is worse at due to the lack of Leftovers. Jirachi is a good defensive complement, as it can easily switch into strong special moves that threaten Slowbro out, such as Draco Meteor and Hyper Voice from Latios and Mega Gardevoir, respectively, due to its great defensive typing. As it tends to be setup bait for Mega Scizor and Bisharp, Jirachi appreciates having Fire Blast Slowbro as a partner. Mew is another great defensive Pokemon with access to a variety of utility moves such as Will-O-Wisp, Knock Off, and Taunt. Its stallbreaker set allows it to break through defensive Pokemon that Slowbro cannot touch, such as Chansey and Porygon2. With significant Speed investment, Mew can cripple Bisharp and Mega Gyarados with Will-O-Wisp, lessening the pressure on Slowbro.
[SET]
name: Defensive
move 1: Scald
move 2: Slack Off
move 3: Fire Blast
move 4: Thunder Wave
item: Leftovers / Rocky Helmet
ability: Regenerator
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 232 Def / 24 SpD
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Scald is an extremely spammable Water-type STAB move with a good chance to cripple physical attackers with a burn. Slack Off is Slowbro's most reliable way to recover health, which, when combined with Regenerator, makes Slowbro extremely hard to wear down. Fire Blast gives Slowbro coverage for Steel-type threats such as Mega Scizor, Bisharp, and Ferrothorn. Flamethrower can be used to provide a more accurate option, but it deals significantly less damage to Bisharp. Thunder Wave is a general utility option that is used to cripple common Scald switch-ins such as Hydreigon and Mega Latias, setup sweepers such as Dragonite, and Choice Scarf Pokemon such as Victini and Kyurem-B.
Set Details
========
The investment in HP and Defense with a Bold nature maximizes Slowbro's physical bulk, allowing it to switch into many physical attackers such as Choice Scarf Victini, Terrakion, and Choice Scarf Kyurem-B. 24 EVs in Special Defense are used to avoid the 2HKO from Choice Specs-boosted Hydro Pump from Keldeo after Stealth Rock damage and to survive a Choice Specs-boosted Draco Meteor from Kingdra if at full HP. Leftovers gives Slowbro a form of passive recovery, letting it switch into physical attackers more easily. Rocky Helmet is an option to punish physical attackers and break potential Focus Sashes as well as Dragonite's Multiscale. However, if Rocky Helmet is being used, a spread of 252 HP / 244 Def / 12 SpD should be run, as Slowbro cannot check Keldeo with the listed spread. Rocky Helmet is especially useful in whittling down U-turn users such as Victini and Jirachi. Regenerator continually heals Slowbro whenever it switches out, letting it act as a great defensive pivot.
Usage Tips
========
Slowbro should be used to pivot into physical attackers such as Mega Lopunny and Landorus-T. Regenerator should be taken advantage of to let Slowbro scout Choice-locked foes and switch out to an appropriate partner. Slowbro should spread status through Scald or Thunder Wave, using Thunder Wave on faster threats such as Hydreigon and Latios and Scald on defensive switch-ins such as Porygon2 and Zapdos. By spreading status, these threats become a lot easier for Slowbro's teammates to handle. Slack Off should be used to keep Slowbro as healthy as possible so that it can switch into strong physical attackers such as Choice Band Mamoswine. Using Slack Off when Regenerator would've been sufficient can result in a loss of momentum, however. Slowbro should be kept away from status ailments such as Toxic poison and burns, as they severely hinder its ability to switch into attacks. Therefore, Slowbro shouldn't be used to combat most walls, as they can cripple it with such status. If Rocky Helmet is being used, use its presence to deter opposing users of Fake Out and other priority moves, such as Dragonite and Mega Medicham, from revenge killing teammates, or to prevent U-turn users, such as Victini and Jirachi, from freely gaining momentum. Slowbro shouldn't be left in against Pokemon like Clefable and Mega Gyarados, as it tends to become setup bait.
Team Options
========
Slowbro can fit well on all balanced teams, as it's a great blanket check to most physical attackers. Specially defensive Jirachi forms a great defensive core with Slowbro. Slowbro appreciates Jirachi's great typing and support moves, as it can switch into Fairy-type Pokemon such as Mega Gardevoir, Mega Diancie, and Clefable, can act as a one-time Choice Scarf Heracross switch-in, threatening it with Thunder Wave, and can also support Slowbro with Healing Wish. Jirachi appreciates having Slowbro to switch into certain Fire-type Pokemon such as Darmanitan, Victini, and Entei, as well as Ground-type attacks from Pokemon like Choice Scarf Landorus-T and Choice Band Mamoswine. Mew is a great defensive complement to Slowbro, being able to switch into many special attacks from Pokemon such as Landorus and Mega Gardevoir, which Slowbro doesn't like to do. The stallbreaker variant is particularly helpful in being able to beat defensive Pokemon that Slowbro cannot touch, such as Chansey and Porygon2. Mew can also Defog away entry hazards, allowing Slowbro to switch into attacks more easily. Colbur Berry Celebi can check threats such as Mega Sharpedo and Mega Gyarados. Celebi in general also acts as a great status absorber due to its ability Natural Cure.
Victini is a great partner to Slowbro. The Choice Scarf variant can run through Bug- and Grass-type teams, notably checking threats like Volcarona and Heracross, which threaten Slowbro. It can also revenge kill a weakened +1 Mega Gyarados, which would otherwise use Slowbro as setup fodder. In return, Slowbro can switch into Pokemon that threaten Victini like Choice Scarf Terrakion, Choice Scarf Landorus-T, and specially defensive Tyranitar. Hoopa-U appreciates having Slowbro to absorb the U-turns and Knock Offs that threaten it. In return, variants of Hoopa-U can beat Ghost-type Pokemon like Gengar that threaten Slowbro. The mixed variant with Substitute and Drain Punch in particular can also check Bisharp by playing mind games with Sucker Punch. Hoopa-U can also check stallbreakers such as Gliscor and Mew, along with walls such as Chansey and Porygon2. Mega Medicham appreciates having Slowbro to pivot into physical attackers like Mega Lopunny, which threatens it due to its bad defenses. Conversely, Mega Medicham can easily break through common defensive Pokemon that give Slowbro a hard time, such as Lanturn, Porygon2, and Chansey. Mega Gardevoir is a very strong special wallbreaker that checks Dragon- and Dark-type Pokemon that threaten Slowbro, such as Latios and Hydreigon. Mega Gardevoir can switch into Gyarados prior to Mega Evolution, weakening it by copying Intimidate and threatening it with Hyper Voice. Choice Scarf Gardevoir can also check Dark- and Dragon-types along with weather sweepers that Slowbro cannot switch into, such as Choice Band Excadrill and Choice Specs Kingdra. In return, Slowbro can switch into common Gardevoir checks such as Terrakion and Jirachi. Latios, Latias, and Mega Latias are good partners to Slowbro, as they can Defog away entry hazards, allowing Slowbro to switch into attacks more easily. They also can switch into Electric- and Grass-type attacks with incredible ease, while Slowbro can switch into Ice-type attackers such as Mamoswine and Cloyster. Latias can also support Slowbro with Healing Wish.
[SET]
name: Calm Mind
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Slack Off
move 3: Scald
move 4: Psyshock / Fire Blast
item: Leftovers
ability: Regenerator
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 232 Def / 24 SpD
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Calm Mind boosts Slowbro's Special Defense and Special Attack stats, which helps patch up its low Special Defense and turns it into a potent setup sweeper. Slack Off is Slowbro's most reliable form of recovery and gives it an easier time setting up. Scald is its most spammable STAB move due to its chance to burn the foe. Psyshock allows Slowbro to win Calm Mind wars against other setup sweepers such as Clefable, hits special walls such as Chansey, and gives Slowbro coverage for Fighting- and Poison-types, particularly Mega Venusaur. Fire Blast is an alternative that lets Slowbro break Steel-type teams. It can still be used to somewhat check Mega Venusaur, but it must rely on many more boosts to do so. Flamethrower can also be run due to its higher PP and better accuracy, but the drop in power is significant. Thunder Wave is a utility option that can be run over Psyshock or Fire Blast to cripple Pokemon that Slowbro pivots into, such as Choice Scarf Kyurem-B and Choice Band Terrakion.
Set Details
========
The given EV spread maximizes Slowbro's physical bulk, with enough Special Defense to take two Choice Specs-boosted Hydro Pumps from Keldeo and one Choice Specs-boosted Draco Meteor from Kingdra at full HP. Regenerator is the ability of choice, allowing Slowbro to act as a great defensive pivot by recovering health every time it switches out. Leftovers gives Slowbro a form of passive recovery that lets it switch into attacks more easily.
Usage Tips
========
Slowbro should be used as a defensive pivot early- and mid-game. It should switch into Pokemon such as Mega Lopunny and Choice Scarf Terrakion that it can threaten with Scald or Psyshock. Slowbro should generally set up late-game when its checks, such as Mega Venusaur, are at least weakened so that it can clean up more easily. However, in some situations, Slowbro can set up at other points during the game and weaken some of the checks that generally switch into it such as Zapdos and Mega Venusaur. Slowbro should setup on physical attackers that it walls, such as Mega Lopunny and Terrakion, and Choice-locked Pokemon like Keldeo. Slowbro can bluff a defensive set and threaten Pokemon out with a possible Thunder Wave to create an opportunity to start setting up. Getting Scald burns on Slowbro's checks early-game can be especially effective and makes it easier for it to find setup opportunities. Slowbro utilizes double switches really well with this set, gaining the Regenerator recovery and putting pressure on its checks. Slowbro should always be kept away from status, especially Toxic poison, as it continually whittles Slowbro down, making it harder to sweep successfully.
Team Options
========
Celebi is a great teammate to Slowbro. With a Colbur Berry, Celebi can check several threats that completely wall this set, such as Mega Sharpedo and Mega Gyarados. It can also switch into Electric-type attacks, completely heal Slowbro with Healing Wish, absorb status thanks to Natural Cure, and cleanse Slowbro of status with Heal Bell. Jirachi is another good defensive partner to Slowbro, as it can support it with Healing Wish as well as switch into and check strong Fairy-types that beat Slowbro such as Sylveon, Mega Gardevoir, and Mega Diancie. Victini can take out Slowbro's checks such as Ferrothorn, Heracross, and Volcarona. It can also create more opportunities for Slowbro to set up by bringing it in safely with U-turn. Mew, particularly the stallbreaker variant, can switch into several special attackers that threaten Slowbro and deal with walls that don't allow Slowbro to set up such as Zapdos. Mega Medicham pairs well with Slowbro, as it can get rid of Pokemon that wall Slowbro, such as Ferrothorn, with its strong STAB High Jump Kick. Mega Gardevoir can break through walls and Dark-types that threaten Slowbro, such as Mega Venusaur and Hydreigon, respectively, with its strong STAB moves, allowing Slowbro to set up more easily. Choice Scarf Gardevoir can get rid of weather sweepers such as Excadrill and Kingdra along with Dark- and Dragon-types. Hoopa-U is an extremely strong wallbreaker that can deal with a plethora of threats to Slowbro, such as Mega Venusaur, Zapdos, Ferrothorn, Doublade, and Ghost-types in general with its strong STAB and coverage moves. Latios can help weaken Slowbro's checks and can easily switch into Grass- and Electric-type moves that threaten it. It can also Defog away entry hazards, letting Slowbro take less residual damage before setting up. Gothitelle deserves a mention due to its ability to trap and remove many threats such as Zapdos and walls running Toxic, such as Chansey.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
**Psychic**:
Trick Room is an option over Thunder Wave on slower teams. It can make use of Slowbro's great bulk in order to almost always guarantee it gets set up, and Slowbro can be paired with strong wallbreakers such as Mega Gardevoir, Hoopa-U, and Victini in order to best take advantage of it. Ice Beam is a coverage option that can be used on the defensive set to lure and KO Pokemon like Dragonite and Landorus. Toxic can be considered over Thunder Wave, as it allows Slowbro to whittle down walls such as Chansey that defensive Slowbro cannot touch; however, Psychic-type teams prefer Slowbro crippling faster threats such as Kyurem-B with paralysis, allowing wallbreakers such as Mega Medicham and Latios to clean up more easily.
Checks and Counters
===================
**Psychic**:
**Super Effective Coverage**: Common coverage moves, such as Fusion Bolt from Life Orb Kyurem-B, Solar Beam from Mega Charizard Y, and Thunderbolt from Mega Latias, all deal massive damage to Slowbro, with some even OHKOing it such as Thunderbolt from Thundurus.
**Special Wallbreakers**: Most special wallbreakers, such as Latios, Dragalge, and Mega Gardevoir, can take advantage of Slowbro's mediocre Special Defense and put a dent in it with their strong STAB attacks; however, they hate being paralyzed by Thunder Wave.
**Status**: Status conditions such as burns and Toxic poison limit Slowbro's ability to switch into physical attackers. Toxic in particular puts Slowbro on a timer and prevents it from stalling out Pokemon with Slack Off.
**Stallbreakers**: Stallbreakers like Gliscor and Mew can cripple Slowbro with Taunt, which prevents it from recovering health, inflict status on it, and continually recover health with Roost.
**Grass-types**: Grass-type Pokemon, such as Serperior, Mega Venusaur, and Rotom-C, can switch into Slowbro and OHKO it with their Grass-type STAB moves.
**Electric -types**: Electric-types like Mega Manectric, Magnezone, and Raikou can easily KO Slowbro with their strong Electric-type STAB moves and are immune to Thunder Wave. Volt Switch also allows Electric-types to take advantage of Slowbro and gain momentum.
**Bug-types**: Bug-type Pokemon, such as Volcarona, Scolipede, and Heracross, can deal a huge chunk of damage with their STAB moves; however, most of them do not like switching into Scald.
**Dragon-types**: Dragon-type Pokemon, such as Latios and Hydreigon, aren't bothered by Slowbro's STAB or coverage moves and can retaliate with their own strong STAB moves; however, they need to be wary of Thunder Wave.
**Ghost-types**: Offensive Ghost-types such as Chandelure and Gengar can easily KO Slowbro with their strong STAB Shadow Ball but need to be wary of Thunder Wave. Defensive Ghost-types such as Gourgeist-XL and Jellicent can easily switch into Slowbro and slowly whittle it down with Will-O-Wisp and Toxic, respectively.
**Dark-types**: Dark-type Pokemon such as Hydreigon, Sharpedo, and Hoopa-U can KO Slowbro with their strong Dark-type STAB moves; however, they need to play around the Colbur Berry set.
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