Monotype Armaldo (Bug)

[OVERVIEW]

Bug
========
Armaldo is the best entry hazard remover for Bug-type teams because of Rapid Spin and its ability to threaten common opposing hazard removers such as Crobat, Mantine, and Zapdos. Armaldo can also set up Stealth Rock for the team, along with being able to take on Flying-type Pokemon thanks to STAB Stone Edge. Armaldo is comparable to Forretress as a reliable hazard remover for Bug-type teams, but it is not weak to Fire-type attacks and isn't as passive. Its Rock typing notably allows it to take a V-create from Victini and hit it back with either Knock Off or Stone Edge. However, Armaldo is weak to Stealth Rock due to its Bug typing, it cannot remove hazards against Ghost-type Pokemon, and is weak to common offensive coverage such as Rock-type and Water-type attacks, forcing Armaldo to switch out often. In addition, Armaldo is not the strongest Pokemon and can be set up on very easily, by the likes of Swords Dance Mega Scizor and Calm Mind Mega Latias. Furthermore, since Armaldo has poor bulk and only base 75 HP, it is difficult for it to take on Pokemon that threaten most Bug-type Pokemon and still fulfill its role as a hazard remover for the team.

[SET]
name: Defensive Spinner
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Rapid Spin
move 3: Knock Off
move 4: Stone Edge
item: Leftovers
ability: Battle Armor
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 252 SpD / 4 Spe

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

Stealth Rock is used to cripple incoming Pokemon on any type and help put foes into range for Bug's powerful offensive backbone to come in and sweep. Rapid Spin is crucial for Armaldo because most of its partners are weak to Stealth Rock. It is Armaldo's job to keep Stealth Rock off its side of the field, but it struggles against Ghost-type Pokemon. Knock Off is a utility move for removing items like Eviolite from Chansey and Porygon2 and even Choice Scarf from Victini. Stone Edge is Armaldo's Rock-type STAB attack, allowing it to threaten Flying-type Pokemon better, such as Zapdos and Mega Charizard Y. Armaldo can also use it to threaten Bug-type Pokemon like Mega Pinsir and Volcarona.

Set Details
========

An investment of 252 HP EVs allows Armaldo to minimize the damage taken from Stealth Rock and increases Armaldo's longevity. Maximum investment in Special Defense allows Armaldo to take on Mega Charizard Y and other specially offensive Pokemon. An alternative spread for Armaldo would be 248 HP / 92 Def / 168 SpD with a Careful nature, which allows it to take a V-create from Victini, even after Stealth Rock damage. Leftovers is a good item for Armaldo because it increases itArmaldo’s longevity. Battle Armor is Armaldo's best ability to block critical hits.

Usage Tips
========
Armaldo's role on the team is to keep entry hazards off the field with Rapid Spin and to support its teammates. Also, Armaldo can set up Stealth Rock to weaken opposing Pokemon to help the team. Stealth Rock is important for weakening Pokemon so Bug-type teams' offensive sweepers can come in and pick off the weakened Pokemon. Set up the hazard early on in matches and if Armaldo doesn't need to clear hazards with Rapid Spin right away. Knock Off allows Armaldo to help its teammates knock out Eviolite Pokemon like Chansey and Porygon2 more easily. Also, Knock Off allows Armaldo to hit the Ghost-type Pokemon that spinblock it, such as Gengar. Armaldo's STAB Stone Edge is used to weaken Flying-type Pokemon such as Zapdos and Crobat that threaten Armaldo's partners. Armaldo can also act as a check to Victini if Armaldo has not been damaged much, but after one switch into Stealth Rock Armaldo can no longer check it. In some matchups, know when it's more important to set up Stealth Rock for clutch chip damage or to clear hazards to secure a sweep from teammates. For Example Stealth Rock is important against Normal-type teams because hazards pressure the team and allows Armaldo's partners a chance to break through. Also, since Armaldo only has base 75 Special Defense, it should not be staying in on strong special attackers if it doesn't have to. Meanwhile Rapid Spin can become crucial against Rock-type teams because Bug-type teams cannot afford to have Stick Web and Stealth Rock on their side of the field.

Team Options
============
Galvantula uses Sticky Web to slow down Pokemon and support the rest of the team, just like Armaldo. Together, they pressure Flying-type teams, and Armaldo can remove entry hazards while keeping Galvantula's Sticky Web up. Galvantula also pressures Dark-types, Psychic-types, and Water-types with its coverage, which is very helpful for Armaldo. Also, Scizor is a great partner for Armaldo because it resists Steel-type attacks that Armaldo cannot handle and is neutral against Rock-type attacks. In return, Armaldo is neutral against Scizor's Fire-type weakness and can beat Fire-types with Stone Edge. When using the alternative spread for Armaldo, Scizor can remove Victini with Choice Band-boosted Pursuit after Victini uses V-create twice on Armaldo. Armaldo supports Volcarona well because Volcarona is 4x weak to Stealth Rock. With hazards off the field and Volcarona healthy, it becomes a lot easier for it to set up Quiver Dance. Mega Pinsir also appreciates Armaldo because it is 4x weak to Stealth Rock and needs Armaldo to clear hazards. If Stealth Rock isn't up, Mega Pinsir can set up a Swords Dance a lot more easily. Also, Armaldo can remove Eviolites from Pokemon that can usually check Mega Pinsir like Chansey and Porygon2. Heracross helps Armaldo because Heracross has the ability Guts, boosting its Attack stat if statused. This allows Heracross to break through Mega Sableye, which counters Armaldo. Araquanid is a very solid partner for Armaldo because of its immunity to burn thanks to its ability Water Bubble and its resistance to Water-type attacks. Armaldo supports Araquanid by taking Flying-type attacks for it and keeping hazards off the field. Araquanid replaces Armaldo as the Fire-type check, alleviating some pressure from Armaldo. Yanmega is another very strong special attacker that benefits from Armaldo's hazard removal. Yanmega also pressures Dark-types and Psychic-types and benefits from Armaldo setting up Stealth Rock, allowing it to KO weakened Pokemon.

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

Bug
--------

Rock Blast can be run over Stone Edge to beat Substitute Zapdos, but it is inconsistent and lacks the power that Stone Edge provides.

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

Bug
--------
**Mega Scizor**: Mega Scizor can switch-(RH) in on Armaldo and set up a Swords Dance on it very easily, along with the fact that Scizor has Steel-type STAB Bullet Punch to threaten Armaldo.

**Water-types**: Armaldo does not take Water-type attacks very well, especially an attack like Scald, which can burn and weaken it. Pokemon like Keldeo and Mega Swampert resist Armaldo's attacks and beat Armaldo with their Water-type attacks.

**Magic Bounce**: Magic Bounce prevents Armaldo from setting up Stealth Rock on the opponent's side of the field. Mega Sableye not only is a spinblocker but also prevents Armaldo from putting Stealth Rock on its side of the field. Mega Sableye can also remove Armaldo's Leftovers with Knock Off and burn it with Will-O-Wisp. Mega Diancie punishes Armaldo if it tries to set Stealth Rock on the field and beats Armaldo with its Rock-type STAB attacks.

**Setup Sweepers**: There are many Pokemon that take advantage of Armaldo and set up on it without being pressured. Pokemon like Calm Mind Mega Latias, Swords Dance Mega Scizor, and Z-Belly Drum Azumarill set up on Armaldo and threaten the rest of its team.

**Stealth Rock**: Armaldo loses 25% every time it switches in on Stealth Rock, limiting the number of times it can switch in on entry hazards.

**Steel-type Pokemon**: Steel-type Pokemon resist both of Armaldo's STAB attacks and can hit it super effectively with their own STAB attacks. Pokemon like Ferrothorn, Celesteela, and Stakataka force out or take advantage of Armaldo. Ferrothorn also punishes Armaldo for using Rapid Spin because of its ability Iron Barbs.

**Rock-types**: Armaldo is weak against Rock-type attacks and is easily pressured by them. Pokemon like Tyranitar, Terrakion, and Nihilego all beat Armaldo with their respective STAB attacks.

**Ghost-types**: Since Armaldo is weak to Stealth Rock and can only remove hazards with Rapid Spin, Ghost-type Pokemon can switch in on Armaldo and prevent it from removing Stealth Rock.

**Status**: Armaldo does not appreciate being statused because if it's burned it cannot beat Pokemon it is meant to check, such as Mantine and Zapdos, making it more difficult for Armaldo to support its team
 
Last edited:

iLlama

Nothing personal, I protect my people
Overview

Bug
========
*Armaldo is a reliable hazard remover for Bug-type teams because of Rapid Spin, allowing Armaldo to remove hazards on its side. Armaldo is the best hazard remover for Bug because of its ability to threaten common opposing hazard removers such as Crobat, Mantine, and Zapdos.
*Armaldo can also set up Stealth Rock for the team, along with having its Rock-type STAB Stone edge to take on Flying-type Pokemon. You could probably work this and the first point together, explaining that Armaldo is the "best Stealth Rock setter and hazard removal mon on Bug."
*Armaldo being Rock-type allows it to take neutral damage from Fire-type attacks, which makes it possible for Armaldo to beat Mega Charizard Y. This should be reworked. It's really difficult for Armaldo to get a favorable situation against Mega Charizard Y, since it can be answered fairly easily by Skarmory and Celesteela on Flying and Fire is Fire. There's only minimal situations where Armaldo would actually have an advantage, especially more so than with Victini, where Armaldo can pretty much force tini out guaranteed.
*Armaldo is weak to hazards due to its' Bug-typing, and can fail to remove hazards against Ghost-type Pokemon. Armaldo is weak to Stealth Rock specifically because of its Bug typing.
*Since Armaldo is a physical attacker and Rock-type, Scald can potentially burn Armaldo and weaken it. A stronger point would be to note that Armaldo can be threatened and forced out by common offensive coverage options, namely Water, as well as status moves.

* A point about Armaldo being setup bait to common threats such as Swords Dance Mega Scizor, Stakataka, and Calm Mind Mega Latias.
* A point about Armaldo having rather poor bulk making it difficult to manage a multitude of Bug's biggest threats while fulfilling its other roles.


[SET]
name: Defensive Spinner
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Rapid Spin
move 3: Knock Off
move 4: Stone Edge
item: Leftovers
ability: Battle Armor
nature: Careful
evs: 248 HP / 92 Def / 168 SpD

This EV spread prevents Armaldo from being OHKOed by Choice Scarf Victini V-create after damage from Stealth Rock.

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

* Stealth Rock is important for Armaldo because Stealth Rock wears down Flying-type teams and gives Bug-type teams a chance to win. This is not why Stealth Rock is used. Stealth Rock is used as an entry hazard to cripple incoming Pokemon on any type and help put things into range for Bug's powerful offensive backbone to come in and clean up.
* Rapid Spin is crucial for Armaldo because most of it's partners are weak to Stealth Rock, just like Armaldo. Removing Stealth Rock from the field is important for Bug-type teams, but Ghost-type Pokemon can block Rapid Spin. You already mentioned the Ghost-types thing in the Overview, which is enough. Just say Rapid Spin is mandatory for managing hazards, especially Stealth Rock since Bug is inherently weak to them.
* Knock Off is an utility move for removing items like Eviolite from Chansey and Porygon2, or even Choice Scarf from Victini.
* Stone Edge is Armaldo's Rock-type STAB, allowing it to handle Flying-type Pokemon better, such as Zapdos and Mega Charizard Y. Threaten, not handle. Mention it also threatens opposing Bug-types such as Volcarona.

Set Details
========

* Investment of 248 HP allows Armaldo to minimize the damage taken from Stealth Rock and to maximize the damage it can take.
* Maximum investment in Special Defense allows Armaldo to take on Mega Charizard Y and many other specially offensive Pokemon. Only use the new EV spread.
*An alternative spread for Armaldo would be 248 HP / 84 Def / 176 SpD with a Careful Nature. This allows it to take a V-create from Victini, even after Stealth Rock damage. 92 Def is the actual cutoff for when Victini's V-create can't OHKO after Stealth Rock damage.
* Leftovers is a good item for Armaldo because, it increases its longevity and allows Armaldo to switch-in on hazards more times than Armaldo would without it. Leftovers is simply for passive recovery and increasing longevity, that's it. It's also the only item that Armaldo runs so make note of that.
* Battle Armor means that Armaldo no Pokemon can get a Critical Hit on it. Reword.

Usage Tips
========
*Armaldo's role on the team is to keep hazards off the field with Rapid Spin and to support its teammates.
*Also, Armaldo can set up Stealth Rock weakening opposing Pokemon to help the team. Elaborate on this point. Explain why it's important for Bug and how it sets up the type's sweepers.
* Knock Off is ran on Armaldo so that Eviolite Pokemon like Chansey and Porygon2 can be Knocked Out by Armaldo's teammates.
* Armaldo's STAB Stone Edge is used to weaken Flying-type Pokemon that threaten Armaldo's partners. Examples and elaborate.
* Armaldo can act as a check to Victini and other Fire-types if it's at full health and it won't take damage from entry hazards.
* When is it smart to Rapid Spin? When is it smart to set Stealth Rock? Which is more important and in what situations?
* When is it smart to switch?


This section is way too small. We're talking about an 'S Rank' Pokemon for Bug, there has to be more things explaining how to use it.

Team Options
============
*Galvantula uses Sticky Web to slow down Pokemon and support the rest of the team, just like Armaldo. Together, they pressure Flying-type teams and Armaldo can remove hazards while keeping Sticky Web on the opponents side. The first sentence makes it seem like Armaldo can set Sticky Web. Galvantula pressures Dark-, Flying-, Psychic-, and Water-types with its coverage, which is very helpful for Armaldo.
*Scizor is a great partner for Armaldo because it resists Steel-type attacks that Armaldo cannot handle and is neutral against Rock-type attacks. While Armaldo is neutral against Scizor's Fire-type weakness and can beat them with Stone Edge.
* Volcarona is supported by Armaldo because Volcarona is 4x weak to Stealth Rock and Armaldo removes them with Rapid Spin. With hazards off the field and Volcarona healthy, it makes it a lot easier for it to set up Quiver Dance.
* Mega Pinsir also appreciates Armaldo because it is 4x weak to Stealth Rock and needs Armaldo to Rapid Spin. If Stealth Rock aren't up, Mega Pinsir can set up a Swords Dance a lot easier. Also, Armaldo can Knock Off Eviolite Pokemon that can usually check Mega Pinsir like Chansey and Porygon2.
*Heracross helps Armaldo because Heracross has the ability Guts, boosting its' Attack stat if status'd. This allows Heracross to break through Mega Sableye, which counters Armaldo.
* Araquinid is a very solid partner for Armaldo because of its ability, Water Bubble, making it immune to burn and resisting Water-type attacks. Armaldo supports Araquinid by taking Flying-type attacks for it and keeping hazards off the field. You don't mention the most important part of Araquanid which is the fact that it replaces Armaldo as the Fire-type check, alleviating some pressure from Armaldo.
* Yanmega


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

Bug
--------

* Rock Blast can be ran over Stone Edge to beat Substitute Zapdos, but it is inconsistent and lacks the power that Stone Edge provides.
* Assault Vest can be ran over Leftovers to help Armaldo deal with Mega Charizard Y and other special attackers better, but with the lack of recovery from Leftovers, Stealth Rock becomes even more difficult for Armaldo to handle. Also it would not be able to set up Stealth Rock because of the Assault Vest. You should never run AV.

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

Bug
--------

5) **Stealth Rock**- Armaldo loses 25% every time it switches in on Stealth Rock, limiting the amount of times it can switch in on hazards.

6) **Steel-type Pokemon**- Steel-type Pokemon resist both of Armaldo STAB attacks and is also super effective against Armaldo. Examples?

**Mega Sableye**- Mega Sableye is not only a spin blocker, but has the ability Magic Bounce which prevents Armaldo from putting Stealth Rock on the Mega Sableye's side of the field. Mega Sableye can Knock Off Armaldo's Leftovers and burn it with Will-O-Wisp. Put this in the Ghost-types section.

7) **Spin Blockers**- Since Armaldo is weak to Stealth Rock and can only remove hazards with Rapid Spin, Ghost-type Pokemon can switch-in on Armaldo and prevent it from removing the Stealth Rock. Change this section to **Ghost-types**:

2) **Water-types** - Armaldo does not take Water-type attacks very well, especially an attack like Scald which can burn and weaken Armaldo Examples?

1) **Mega Scizor**:

8) **Status**:

4) **Mega Diancie**:

3) **Setup Sweepers**:

Reorder 1-8
There are a lot of changes so if you have questions about anything let me know. Widely missing examples and quite a few sections, namely the Overview and Usage Tips, are severely lacking in information for a 'S Rank' Pokemon. Be sure to look over your grammar because some of this was a bit tough to read and confusing in areas. When you implement everything tag me and I'll check this over again.
 
Overview:
- Definitely discuss the competition Armaldo has from Forretress. Armaldo is better, but you should still at least mention it.

Moves:
- This line is two sentences that say the exact same thing.
* Rapid Spin is crucial for Armaldo because most of it's partners are weak to Stealth Rock, just like Armaldo. Removing Stealth Rock from the field is important for Bug-type teams since they're weak to Stealth Rock.

Usage Tips:
One comment I have about most of this section is it reads like other sections. For example, you explain why you run moves in the Moves section, but you explain how to use them here. So I think you should take another look at these tips and rework them.

Team Options:
- Actually, about the Victini thing for Scizor, the strat is forcing Victini to V-create twice, allowing Choice Band Scizor to outspeed and OHKO with Pursuit, which is a guarantee.

Other Options:
- Definitely have Assault Vest here in case someone uses Shuckle + Armaldo. Instead of specifically mentioning Shuckle (because that's what you would do in Team Options if the pairing is suggested), just say that's an option if a teammate carries Stealth Rock instead of Armaldo.

Checks and Counters:
- In Setup Sweepers, it's Calm Mind Mega Latias.
- Ferrothorn's a good example for Steel-types, but it's not for the reason you have there. I would keep Ferrothorn in this section but move it into its own sentence where you discuss Iron Barbs punishing Rapid Spin!

Good work QC 2/3
 

Moosical

big yikes
is a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Social Media Contributor Alumnusis a Forum Moderator Alumnusis a Community Contributor Alumnusis a Top Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Media Contributor Alumnus
Overview:
Mention its lack of recovery.

Set Details:
"This allows it to take a V-create from Choice Scarf Victini, even after Stealth Rock damage."

Checks and Counters:
I think you can consolidate Mega Sableye and Mega Diancie into the title "Magic bouncers" while keeping what you wrote for both. Then add a section for Rock-type Pokemon.

Looks good otherwise. QC 3/3 n_n
 

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


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

Bug
========
Armaldo is a reliable the best entry hazard remover for Bug-type teams because of Rapid Spin, allowing Armaldo to remove hazards on its side. Armaldo is the best hazard remover for Bug because of and its ability to threaten common opposing hazard removers such as Crobat, Mantine, and Zapdos. Armaldo can also set up Stealth Rock for the team, along with having its Rock-type STAB Stone edge being able to take on Flying-type Pokemon thanks to STAB Stone Edge. Armaldo is comparable to Forretress as a reliable hazard remover for Bug-type teams, however, Armaldo is better than Forretress because Armaldo but it is not weak to Fire-type attacks like Forretress and isn't as passive. Armaldo being Rock-type Its Rock typing notably allows it to take neutral damage from Fire-type attacks, which makes it possible for Armaldo to take a V-create from Victini and hit it back with either Knock Off or Stone Edge. Also, However, Armaldo is weak to Stealthh Stealth Rock due to its' its Bug typing, (RH) and cannot remove hazards against Ghost-type Pokemon, (comma) Unfortunately, Armaldo and is weak to common offensive coverage such as Rock-type and Water-type attacks, forcing Armaldo to switch out often. In addition, Armaldo is not the strongest Pokemon and can be setup set up on very easily, a Pokemon like by the likes of Swords Dance Mega Scizor can Swords Dance up on it very easily, while a Pokemon like and Calm Mind Mega Latias can Calm Mind on Armaldo as well. Furthermore, since Armaldo does have has poor bulk (RC) and with only base 75 HP, it is difficult for Armaldo it to take on Pokemon that threaten most Bug-type Pokemon and still fulfill its' its role as a hazard remover for the team.

[SET]
name: Defensive Spinner
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Rapid Spin
move 3: Knock Off
move 4: Stone Edge
item: Leftovers
ability: Battle Armor
nature: Careful
evs: 248 HP / 252 SpD / 8 Spe


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

Stealth Rock is used as an entry hazard to cripple incoming Pokemon on any type and help put things into range for Bug's powerful offensive backbone to come in and sweep. Rapid Spin is crucial for Armaldo because most of it's its partners are weak to Stealth Rock, just like Armaldo. It is Armaldo's job to keep Stealth Rock off it's its side of the field, but it struggles against Ghost-type Pokemon. Knock Off is an a utility move for removing items like Eviolite from Chansey and Porygon2 (RC) or and even Choice Scarf from Victini. Stone Edge is Armaldo's Rock-type STAB attack, allowing it to threaten Flying-type Pokemon better, such as Zapdos and Mega Charizard Y. Armaldo can also use it to threaten Bug-type Pokemon like Mega Pinsir and Volcarona.

Set Details
========

Investment of 248 HP (Armaldo's max HP is not divisible by 4 so you can just make this max) allows Armaldo to minimize the damage taken from Stealth Rock and to maximize the damage it can take. Maximum investment in Special Defense allows Armaldo to take on Mega Charizard Y and other specially offensive Pokemon. An alternative spread for Armaldo would be 248 HP / 92 Def / 168 SpD with a Careful Nature. This allows it to take a V-create from Victini, even after Stealth Rock damage. Leftovers is a good item for Armaldo because (RC) it increases its longevity and it is the only item used on it. Also, Armaldo benefits most from its' ability Battle Armor because this means that it can't get Critcal Hit is Armaldo's best ability to block critical hits.

Usage Tips
========
Armaldo's role on the team is to keep entry hazards off the field with Rapid Spin and to support its teammates. Also, Armaldo can set up Stealth Rock weakening to weaken opposing Pokemon to help the team. Stealth Rock is important for weakening Pokemon so then Bug-type teams' (apo) can use its' offensive sweepers to can come in and pick off the weakened Pokemon. Stealth Rock is good to Set up the hazard early on in matches and if Armaldo doesn't need to Rapid Spin hazards right away. Knock Off is ran on allows Armaldo so that to help its teammates knock out Eviolite Pokemon like Chansey and Porygon2 can be Knocked Out by Armaldo's teammates more easily. Also, Knock Off allows Armaldo to hit Ghost-type Pokemon that spin block spinblock it, such as Gengar. Armaldo's STAB Stone Edge is used to weaken Flying-type Pokemon such as Zapdos and Crobat that threaten Armaldo's partners. Pokemon like Zapdos and Crobat that threaten Bug-type Pokemon are threatened out by Stone Edge, Armaldo is a great check to both of them. Armaldo can also act as a check to Victini if Armaldo has not been damaged much, but after one switch into Stealth Rock switch-in Armaldo cannot check Victini can no longer check it. In some matchups, (remove space) know when it's more important to set up Stealth Rock for clutch chip damage or when clearing to clear hazards can to secure a sweep from teammates. For example, against Steel-type teams, Armaldo will need to keep Stealth Rock off the field for Volcarona to stay healthy and allow it to Quiver Dance. In contrast to Stealth Rock On the other hand, Rapid Spin can become more important for Bug-type teams because if hazards stay up on their side of the field then Bug-type teams cannot handle the hazard pressure. For example, against Rock-type teams, Armaldo cannot allow Stealth Rock or Sticky Web to be on their your side of the field, (AC) or Bug-type teams just lose to Terrakion. Also, since Armaldo only has base 75 Special Defense, it should not be staying in on strong special attackers if it doesn't have to. (period)


Team Options
============
Galvantula uses Sticky Web to slow down Pokemon and support the rest of the team, just like Armaldo. Together, they pressure Flying-type teams, (AC) and Armaldo can remove entry hazards while keeping Galvantula's Sticky Web on the opponents side up. Galvantula also pressures Dark- types, Psychic- types, and Water-types with its coverage, which is very helpful for Armaldo. Also, Scizor is a great partner for Armaldo because it resists Steel-type attacks that Armaldo cannot handle and is neutral against Rock-type attacks. While In return, Armaldo is neutral against Scizor's Fire-type weakness and can beat them with Stone Edge. When using the alternative spread for Armaldo, it allows Scizor to kill can remove Victini with Choice Band-boosted Pursuit after Victini uses V-create twice on Armaldo. Volcarona is supported by Armaldo supports Volcarona well because Volcarona is 4x weak to Stealth Rock and Armaldo removes them with Rapid Spin. With hazards off the field and Volcarona healthy, it makes it becomes a lot easier for it to set up Quiver Dance. Mega Pinsir also appreciates Armaldo because it is 4x weak to Stealth Rock and needs Armaldo to Rapid Spin. If Stealth Rock aren't isn't up, Mega Pinsir can set up a Swords Dance a lot easier more easily. Also, Armaldo can Knock Off remove Eviolites from Pokemon that can usually check Mega Pinsir like Chansey and Porygon2. Heracross helps Armaldo because Heracross has the ability Guts, boosting its' its Attack stat if status'd statused. This allows Heracross to break through Mega Sableye, which counters Armaldo. Araquinid Araquanid is a very solid partner for Armaldo because of its immunity to burn thanks to its ability Water Bubble making it immune to burn and resisting its resistance to Water-type attacks. Armaldo supports Araquinid Araquanid by taking Flying-type attacks for it and keeping hazards off the field. Araquanid replaces Armaldo as the Fire-type check, alleviating some pressure from Armaldo. Yanmega is 4x weak to Stealth Rock and a another very strong special attacker that benefits from Armaldo's hazard removal. Yanmega also pressures Dark-types and Psychic-types and benefits from Armaldo setting up Stealth Rock, allowing it to KO weakened Pokemon.

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

Bug
--------

Rock Blast can be ran run over Stone Edge to beat Substitute Zapdos, but it is inconsistent and lacks the power that Stone Edge provides.


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

Bug
--------
**Mega Scizor**: (change all hyphens to colons) Mega Scizor can switch in (RH) on Armaldo and set up a Swords Dance on it very easily, along with the fact that Scizor has Steel-type STAB Bullet Punch to threaten Armaldo.

**Water-types**: Armaldo does not take Water-type attacks very well, especially an attack like Scald, (AC) which can burn and weaken Armaldo it. Pokemon like Keldeo and Mega Swampert resist Armaldo's attacks and beat Armaldo with their Water-type attacks. (AP)

**Magic Bounce**; Magic Bounce prevents Armaldo from setting up Stealth Rock on the opponents opponent's side of the field and forces Armaldo to Rapid Spin. (how? not seeing the link here) Mega Sableye is not only is a spin blocker, spinblocker but it also prevents Armaldo from putting Stealth Rock on the Mega Sableye's its side of the field because of Magic Bounce. Mega Sableye can Knock Off also remove Armaldo's Leftovers with Knock Off and burn it with Will-O-Wisp. Mega Diancie punishes Armaldo if it tries to set Stealth Rock on the field and Mega Diancie beats Armaldo with its' its Rock-type STAB attacks.

**Setup Sweepers**: There are many Pokemon that take advantage of Armaldo and set up on it without being pressured. Pokemon like Calm Mind Mega Latias, Swords Dance Mega Scizor, and Z-Belly (AH) Drum Azumarill set up on Armaldo and threaten the rest of its' its team.


**Stealth Rock**: Armaldo loses 25% every time it switches in on Stealth Rock, limiting the amount number of times it can switch in on entry hazards.

**Steel-type Pokemon**: Steel-type Pokemon resist both of Armaldo's STAB attacks and is also can hit it super effectively against Armaldo with their own STAB attacks. Pokemon like Ferrothorn, Celesteela, and Stakataka force it out or take advantage of Armaldo. Ferrothorn also punishes Armaldo for using Rapid Spin because of its' its ability Iron Barbs damaging Armaldo everytime it touches Ferrothorn.

**Rock-types**: Armaldo is weak against Rock-type attacks and is easily pressured by them. Pokemon like Tyranitar, Terrakion and Nihilego all beat Armaldo with their perspective respective Rock-type coverage STAB attacks.

**Ghost-types**: Since Armaldo is weak to Stealth Rock and can only remove hazards with Rapid Spin, Ghost-type Pokemon can switch in (RH) on Armaldo and prevent it from removing the Stealth Rock.

**Status**: Armaldo does not appreciate being status'd statused because if its' it's burnt burned it cannot beat Pokemon it is meant to check, such as Mantine and Zapdos, and making it more difficult for Armaldo to support its' its team.
 
Last edited:

lotiasite

undedgy
is a Forum Moderatoris a Top Contributoris a Smogon Media Contributoris a Social Media Contributor Alumnus
GP 2/2
[OVERVIEW]

Bug
========
Armaldo is the best entry hazard remover for Bug-type teams because of Rapid Spin and its ability to threaten common opposing hazard removers such as Crobat, Mantine, and Zapdos. Armaldo can also set up Stealth Rock for the team, along with being able to take on Flying-type Pokemon thanks to STAB Stone Edge. Armaldo is comparable to Forretress as a reliable hazard remover for Bug-type teams, but it is not weak to Fire-type attacks like Forretress(not sure what that was, it was struck through but not removed. Im assuming this is bc u are manually deformatting stuff, which is very inefficient! Instead, highlight everything and press the rubber in the top left of the options) and isn't as passive. Its Rock typing notably allows it to take a V-create from Victini and hit it back with either Knock Off or Stone Edge. However, Armaldo is weak to Stealth Rock due to its Bug typing, it cannot remove hazards against Ghost-type Pokemon, and is weak to common offensive coverage such as Rock-type and Water-type attacks, forcing Armaldo to switch out often. In addition, Armaldo is not the strongest Pokemon and can be set up on very easily, by the likes of Swords Dance Mega Scizor and Calm Mind Mega Latias. Furthermore, since Armaldo has poor bulk and only base 75 HP, it is difficult for it to take on Pokemon that threaten most Bug-type Pokemon and still fulfill its role as a hazard remover for the team.

[SET]
name: Defensive Spinner
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Rapid Spin
move 3: Knock Off
move 4: Stone Edge
item: Leftovers
ability: Battle Armor
nature: Careful
evs: 252 HP / 252 SpD / 4 Spe

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

Stealth Rock is used to cripple incoming Pokemon on any type and help put thingfoes into range for Bug's powerful offensive backbone to come in and sweep. Rapid Spin is crucial for Armaldo because most of its partners are weak to Stealth Rock, just like Armaldo. It is Armaldo's job to keep Stealth Rock off s its side of the field, but it struggles against Ghost-type Pokemon. Knock Off is a utility move for removing items like Eviolite from Chansey and Porygon2 and even Choice Scarf from Victini. Stone Edge is Armaldo's Rock-type STAB attack, allowing it to threaten Flying-type Pokemon better, such as Zapdos and Mega Charizard Y. Armaldo can also use it to threaten Bug-type Pokemon like Mega Pinsir and Volcarona.

Set Details
========

IAn investment of 252 HP EVs allows Armaldo to minimize the damage taken from Stealth Rock and to maximize the damage it can take.he damage it can take. (not sure what you mean by this) Maximum investment in Special Defense allows Armaldo to take on Mega Charizard Y and other specially offensive Pokemon. An alternative spread for Armaldo would be 248 HP / 92 Def / 168 SpD with a Careful Nature. Thisnature, which allows it to take a V-create from Victini, even after Stealth Rock damage. Leftovers is a good item for Armaldo because it increases itArmaldo’s longevity. Battle Armor is Armaldo's best ability to block critical hits.

Usage Tips
========
Armaldo's role on the team is to keep entry hazards off the field with Rapid Spin and to support its teammates. Also, Armaldo can set up Stealth Rock to weaken opposing Pokemon to help the team. Stealth Rock is important for weakening Pokemon so Bug-type teams' offensive sweepers can come in and pick off the weakened Pokemon. Set up the hazard early on in matches and if Armaldo doesn't need to clear hazards with Rapid Spin hazards right away. Knock Off allows Armaldo to help its teammates knock out Eviolite Pokemon like Chansey and Porygon2 more easily. Also, Knock Off allows Armaldo to hit the Ghost-type Pokemon that spinblock it, such as Gengar. Armaldo's STAB Stone Edge is used to weaken Flying-type Pokemon such as Zapdos and Crobat that threaten Armaldo's partners. Armaldo can also act as a check to Victini if Armaldo has not been damaged much, but after one switch into Stealth Rock switch-in Armaldo can no longer check it. In some matchups, know when it's more important to set up Stealth Rock for clutch chip damage or to clear hazards to secure a sweep from teammates. For example, against Steel-type teams, Armaldo will need to keep Stealth Rock off the field for Volcarona to stay healthy and allow it to Quiver Dance. On the other hand, Rapid Spin can become more important for Bug-type teams because if hazards stay up on their side of the field then Bug-type teams cannot handle the hazard pressure. (not sure how this works. Both these examples want hazards off the field; neither are about setting up rocks, so on the other hand isn’t really accurate. Use a diff example that wants sr up)For example, against Rock-type teams, Armaldo cannot allow Stealth Rock or Sticky Web to be on your side of the field, or Bug-type teams just lose to Terrakion. Also, since Armaldo only has base 75 Special Defense, it should not be staying in on strong special attackers if it doesn't have to.

Team Options
============
Galvantula uses Sticky Web to slow down Pokemon and support the rest of the team, just like Armaldo. Together, they pressure Flying-type teams, and Armaldo can remove entry hazards while keeping Galvantula's Sticky Web up. Galvantula also pressures Dark-(removespace)types, Psychic-(removespace)types, and Water-types with its coverage, which is very helpful for Armaldo. Also, Scizor is a great partner for Armaldo because it resists Steel-type attacks that Armaldo cannot handle and is neutral against Rock-type attacks. In return, Armaldo is neutral against Scizor's Fire-type weakness and can beat themFire-types with Stone Edge. When using the alternative spread for Armaldo, it allows Scizor can remove Victini with Choice Band-boosted Pursuit after Victini uses V-create twice on Armaldo. Armaldo supports Volcarona well because Volcarona is 4x weak to Stealth Rock. With hazards off the field and Volcarona healthy, it becomes a lot easier for it to set up Quiver Dance. Mega Pinsir also appreciates Armaldo because it is 4x weak to Stealth Rock and needs Armaldo to Rapid Spinclear hazards. If Stealth Rock aren't isn't up, Mega Pinsir can set up a Swords Dance a lot more easily. Also, Armaldo can remove Eviolites from Pokemon that can usually check Mega Pinsir like Chansey and Porygon2. Heracross helps Armaldo because Heracross has the ability Guts, boosting its' its Attack stat if statused. This allows Heracross to break through Mega Sableye, which counters Armaldo. Araquanid is a very solid partner for Armaldo because of its immunity to burn thanks to its ability Water Bubble and its resistance to Water-type attacks. Armaldo supports.(RP) Araquanid by taking Flying-type attacks for it and keeping hazards off the field. Araquanid replaces Armaldo as the Fire-type check, alleviating some pressure from Armaldo. Yanmega is another very strong special attacker that benefits from Armaldo's hazard removal. Yanmega also pressures Dark-types and Psychic-types and benefits from Armaldo setting up Stealth Rock, allowing it to KO weakened Pokemon.

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

Bug
--------

Rock Blast can be run over Stone Edge to beat Substitute Zapdos, but it is inconsistent and lacks the power that Stone Edge provides.

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

Bug
--------
**Mega Scizor**: Mega Scizor can switch-(RH) in on Armaldo and set up a Swords Dance on it very easily, along with the fact that Scizor has Steel-type STAB Bullet Punch to threaten Armaldo.

**Water-types**: Armaldo does not take Water-type attacks very well, especially an attack like Scald, which can burn and weaken it. Pokemon like Keldeo and Mega Swampert resist Armaldo's attacks and beat Armaldo with their Water-type attacks.

**Magic Bounce**: Magic Bounce prevents Armaldo from setting up Stealth Rock on the opponent's side of the field. Mega Sableye not only is a spinblocker but also prevents Armaldo from putting Stealth Rock on its side of the field. Mega Sableye can also remove Armaldo's Leftovers with Knock Off and burn it with Will-O-Wisp. Mega Diancie punishes Armaldo if it tries to set Stealth Rock on the field and beats Armaldo with its Rock-type STAB attacks.

**Setup Sweepers**: There are many Pokemon that take advantage of Armaldo and set up on it without being pressured. Pokemon like Calm Mind Mega Latias, Swords Dance Mega Scizor, and Z-Belly Drum Azumarill set up on Armaldo and threaten the rest of its team.

**Stealth Rock**: Armaldo loses 25% every time it switches in on Stealth Rock, limiting the number of times it can switch in on entry hazards.

**Steel-type Pokemon**: Steel-type Pokemon resist both of Armaldo's STAB attacks and can hit it super effectively with their own STAB attacks. Pokemon like Ferrothorn, Celesteela, and Stakataka force out or take advantage of Armaldo. Ferrothorn also punishes Armaldo for using Rapid Spin because of its ability Iron Barbs. (AP)

**Rock-types**: Armaldo is weak against Rock-type attacks and is easily pressured by them. Pokemon like Tyranitar, Terrakion, (AC) and Nihilego all beat Armaldo with their respective STAB attacks.

**Ghost-types**: Since Armaldo is weak to Stealth Rock and can only remove hazards with Rapid Spin, Ghost-type Pokemon can switch-(RH) in on Armaldo and prevent it from removing Stealth Rock.

**Status**: Armaldo does not appreciate being statused because if it's burned it cannot beat Pokemon it is meant to check, such as Mantine and Zapdos, making it more difficult for Armaldo to support its team. (AP)

you didnt implement tdp's check exactly, so use the method of implementation in this video spo.ink/gpvideo
 

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