Combusken

false

maybe this is heaven
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[OVERVIEW]

One of only two viable Fighting-type Pokemon in the PU tier, Combusken sets itself apart from its running mate Monferno and finds two different niches through its ability Speed Boost. Combusken's access to high-powered STAB moves and its decent offensive stats allow it to run a dangerous offensive set, while its decent defensive typing allows it to run an effective Baton Pass set. Despite having an effective and defined niche, Combusken still suffers some competition from Monferno, which boasts a higher base Speed stat as well as access to Close Combat and Mach Punch. Additionally, Combusken's access to Speed Boost isn't always enough to remedy its low Speed stat, as Combusken is still outsped by a number of offensive Pokemon at +1 and even some Choice Scarf users at +2.

[SET]
name: Life Orb Attacker
move 1: Fire Blast
move 2: Focus Blast
move 3: Hidden Power Ice / Hidden Power Electric / Baton Pass
move 4: Protect
item: Life Orb
ability: Speed Boost
nature: Timid
evs: 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

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

Protect allows Combusken to stall out a turn and gain a Speed boost while also scouting for potential Choice items. Fire Blast and Focus Blast are Combusken's powerful STAB moves; their high Base Power and decent coverage somewhat make up for Combusken's average Special Attack stat, with Focus Blast being strong enough to OHKO most offensive Pokemon, such as Rapidash and Floatzel, after Stealth Rock. Hidden Power Ice hits Altaria and OHKOes Vibrava and Gabite, while Hidden Power Electric is an option to OHKO Pokemon such as Pelipper and Swanna. Baton Pass can be run over Hidden Power to maintain offensive pressure by passing Speed boosts to wallbreakers that can threaten Combusken's checks.

Set Details
========

Speed Boost enables Combusken to act as an effective late-game cleaner. Maximum Speed and Special Attack investment is required to ensure that Combusken is as fast and as strong as possible. A Timid nature is necessary to outspeed the likes of Leafeon, Dodrio, and Rapidash at +1. Life Orb is a requirement on offensive Combusken, as it somewhat remedies its otherwise mediocre base 85 Special Attack stat.

Usage Tips
========

Baton Pass + 2 attacks is generally better used in the early-game to break and pass Speed boosts into other wallbreakers, while 3 attacks is better used as a dedicated cleaner in the late-game. It is best not to switch Combusken directly into attacks, even resisted ones, as it is very frail and quickly worn down by hazards. This is especially true for 3 attacks Combusken, which should avoid switching in as much as possible in the hopes of keeping itself out of range of being revenge killed by priority attacks. If it can do this then it will be much more threatening as a late-game cleaner. Bringing Combusken in on double switches or after a teammate has fainted is the preferred way to go. Use Protect wisely, as it is somewhat obvious that Combusken is going to use the move when facing a faster Pokemon, which can be taken advantage of.

Team Options
========

Powerful wallbreakers such as Stoutland and Chatot provide good support for Combusken, as they are able to bust through some of the sturdier walls that it may be unable to break through, paving the way for Combusken to clean up in the late-game. Baton Pass variants of Combusken are also occasionally able to pass wallbreakers Speed boosts that can allow them to wallbreak more effectively. Leafeon is a good partner due to its ability to check a multitude of Water- and Ground-types that may threaten Combusken and access to Knock Off to remove Eviolites of defensive Pokemon such as Vullaby and Clefairy. Pursuit support from the likes of Stoutland and Krokorok is appreciated to weaken defensive Pokemon such as Grumpig and Muk. Since many Combusken checks are Flying-types, Stealth Rock support from the likes of Golem and Metang can be useful to weaken them. Lastly, Electric-types such as Zebstrika and Rotom-F can be used to pressure the Water-types that threaten Combusken while also weakening Pokemon such as Grumpig.

[SET]
name: Speed Pass
move 1: Will-O-Wisp
move 2: Substitute
move 3: Baton Pass
move 4: Protect
item: Eviolite
ability: Speed Boost
nature: Timid
evs: 248 HP / 8 SpD / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

Moves
========

Protect enables Combusken to stall out turns to gain Speed boosts. Substitute enables Combusken to set up on weaker or resisted attacks or simply just bide a turn to gain an additional Speed boost. Will-O-Wisp is used to wear down common switch-ins such as Pelipper and Grumpig, while also burning physical attackers such as Metang so that their attacks cannot break its Substitute. Baton Pass allows Combusken to pass any Speed boosts or Substitutes that it has attained to a teammate. Attacking moves such as Focus Blast and Fire Blast can be run over Will-O-Wisp to allow Combusken to deal damage to Pokemon such as Ninetales, which may otherwise use Combusken as setup fodder; however, without investment or a boosting item, these attacks are relatively weak and the utility of Will-O-Wisp is preferred.

Set Details
========

Maximum Speed investment alongside a Timid nature is necessary to enable Combusken to outspeed Pokemon such as Simipour at +1 so that it can use Substitute before being hit by Hydro Pump, biding another turn and gaining another Speed boost. Maximum HP investment in combination with Eviolite allows Combusken to create a Substitute that isn't broken by common attacks such as Clefairy's Moonblast or Leafeon's Leaf Blade. Attack investment isn't needed, since Combusken often doesn't run an attacking move.

Usage Tips
========

Combusken is best used in the early-game to pass Speed to powerful wallbreakers that will then attempt to break down the opposing team. Use Protect and Substitute to stall turns and gain Speed boosts; it is usually best to try to attain enough Speed boosts that the recipient will be able to outspeed every Pokemon that would be able to threaten it in return. Combusken's investment in HP combined with Eviolite usually gives it the bulk to pass multiple times throughout a game, so use this to your advantage and don't be afraid to be aggressive with your wallbreakers.

Team Options
========

Teams based on Speed Boost + Baton Pass are usually formulaic and don't necessarily follow normal team structures. Such a team will usually be comprised of Combusken, three recipients, and two support Pokemon. Powerful, slower wallbreakers such as Cacturne, Marowak, and Beheeyem are some of the best recipients, as the Speed boost makes up for their mediocre Speed stat and enables them to more effectively wallbreak. Setup sweepers such as Bouffalant and Servine are also good recipients for a similar reason. Dual screens or Memento support can also be useful to ease Combusken's time setting up Substitute; however, there aren't a great deal of viable Pokemon that can provide this support. Healing Wish support from Mr. Mime can be useful to heal Combusken so that it can Baton Pass more Speed boosts or a threatening wallbreaker that has been weakened or statused.

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

Focus Energy is a gimmicky option that can be used over Will-O-Wisp on the dedicated Baton Pass set to grant the recipient a heightened chance to land a critical hit. Pokemon such as Sniper + Scope Lens Octillery or multi-hit move users such as Bonemerang Marowak are some of the best users for this strategy. A Swords Dance or all-out-attacking physical set can be run, but these are generally outclassed by Monferno due to the fact that Combusken lacks a powerful Fighting STAB move or a priority move.

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

**Specially Bulky Pokemon**: Muk, Grumpig, and specially defensive Clefairy are just a few examples of Pokemon that boast enough special bulk to reliably switch in on and deal with Combusken. Muk and Clefairy boast reliable recovery, while Grumpig threatens Combusken with its Psychic STAB move, and it can also negate the potential for Speed pass with Whirlwind, if it so chooses. Also, since Combusken can only run one Hidden Power, sets lacking Hidden Power Ice will be walled by Altaria, while sets lacking Hidden Power Electric will be walled by Pelipper.

**Faster Pokemon**: Combusken's unimpressive base 55 Speed means that even after a boost it is still outsped by naturally fast Pokemon such as Floatzel, Jumpluff, and Dodrio as well as all Choice Scarf users. Faster Choice Scarf users such as Chatot and Mr. Mime can even outspeed Combusken at +2. Jumpluff and Chatot can also hit Combusken through its Substitute thanks to Infiltrator and Boomburst, respectively.

**Ground-types**: Vibrava, Gabite, Marowak, and Golem can usually take a hit and retaliate with a super effective Ground-type STAB move. Marowak is particularly threatening to the Speed Pass set due to the fact that Bonemerang hits multiple times, which breaks Substitutes.

**Water-types**: Pokemon such as Politoed and Lumineon are able to take any hit from Combusken and threaten it in return with their Water-type STAB attacks. Defensive Politoed can also run Perish Song to neutralize Baton Pass sets.
 
Last edited:

MZ

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all of the info is good here, it's just kinda short and could use a lot more stuff. this was a problem before u switched to bullets though iirc so dont be mad. I try to give some examples of things to add for each section but for every one theres definitely more stuff. I trust you to implement it, but I'm still gonna hold off on stamping until I see it just because of how incredibly short some sections are, I dont want them to be basically unchecked. Too many of the sections look like there's been pretty much zero effort put into slapping this together (especially other options which literally had no effort since it's not there like hello)
[OVERVIEW]

  • 1 of 2 viable Fighting types in the whole tier
  • Calling card is Speed Boost not sure what this means, ik you have a plan on how to write it up which is why I won't criticize other bullets like the above one but if you use the actual phrase "calling card" it'll look silly
  • High powered STABs, and decent offensive stats
  • Used mainly as a late game cleaner, or dedicated Baton Passer
  • Suffers competition from Monferno which has higher base speed, Close Combat, Mach Punch
  • Low Speed stat leaves it still outsped by faster Pokemon even at +1 and +2 (loses to scarf mime, leaf, chatot, simis, dodrio)
this just misses some relevant points. as a cleaner it's really strong with high BP stabs boosting mediocre power and very few mons that resist both. baton pass is great on an offensive set to be able to pass speed into a counter to their counter, making it hard to handle. couple of other things maybe like it's a useful grass/dark check, but u get the idea of just putting a little more into this

[SET]
name: Life Orb Attacker
move 1: Fire Blast
move 2: Focus Blast
move 3: Hidden Power [Electric] / Hidden Power [Ice] i think baton pass is easily better than these two but gonna get more opinions before saying slash it before / at all. it's in moves for now anyway
move 4: Protect
item: Life Orb
ability: Speed Boost
nature: Timid
evs: 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

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

  • Protect lets Combusken gets boosts, scout potential choice items too
  • Fire Blast and Focus Blast as high base power STABs which somewhat make up for Combusken's mediocre SpA stat. Has decent coverage
  • HP Ice hits Altaria and OHKOs Vibrava
  • HP Electric OHKOs Pelipper and Swanna
  • Baton Pass can be run over Hidden Power yeah but why can it be run over them

Set Details
========

  • Speed Boost is Combusken's calling card again with this phrase x_x u can just say it lets u clean
  • Maximum Speed and Special Attack EVs are needed to ensure that Combusken is as fast and as strong as possible
  • A Timid nature is necessary to outspeed the likes of Leafeon, Dodrio, and Rapidash at +1 and the above scarfers at +2
  • Life Orb is needed to somewhat remedy Combusken's otherwise mediocre 85 Special Attack stat

Usage Tips
========

  • Best used as a lategame cleaner
  • Attempt not to switch Combusken into attacks because it's frail (bringing it in on doubles or sacks is best)
  • Click Protect to gain Speed Boosts, and then throw out attacks
super short altho the mon is pretty basic, you could say something about using combusken earlier in the game to abuse speedpass if running BP and try to think of a few other things

Team Options
========

  • Strong wallbreakers like Stoutland, Chatot are good to bust through the walls that Combusken is too weak to break, paving the way for it to clean up in the late game also like receiving speed. ik I'm saying that a lot but ur heavily avoiding mentioning it when it's still a part of how sweeper is played, not just dedicated speedpass
  • Leafeon checks Waters and Grounds, and Knocks Off defensive Pokemon like Vullaby and Clefairy
could definitely use more examples of water and ground checks, combusken likes pursuit to weaken grumpig and occasionally alt depending on the user, rocks are p crucial for handling peli/swanna/alt a lot better depending on what hidden power u dont have, more things i haven't listed

[SET]
name: Speed Pass
move 1: Will-O-Wisp
move 2: Substitute
move 3: Baton Pass
move 4: Protect
item: Eviolite
ability: Speed Boost
nature: Timid
evs: 248 HP / 8 SpD / 252 Spe

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

  • Protect lets you sit for a turn and get Speed Boosts
  • Sub sets on on weak/resisted attacks like Clef's Moonblast or Leafeon's Leaf Blade
  • Wisp wears down Peli, Grumpig etc whilst also giving more Sub opportunities vs stuff like EQ Metang
  • Focus Energy is a somewhat gimmicky option if you want to use critpass i would move this to OO seeing as it's a p diff strategy and not one that's seen much usage at all outside of ur 1 ltpl team, this seems too positive for it. if anything needs a mention, it's the ability to run an attack over wisp if u want to have slight offensive presence, just mention the downsides of being weak and not as crippling
you also dont mention BP at all, ik it's obvious but do it

Set Details
========

  • Max Speed for the Speed tier, gives the best chance of Sub+Protect earning multiple boosts
  • Max HP makes it easier to set up subs, and attack isn't needed because dedicated pass doesn't run any attacks
no mention of BP or eviolite

Usage Tips
========

  • Best used early game
  • Powerful, slower wallbreakers are usually the main recipients, using the speed boosts to make up for their lack of natural speed
  • Use Protect + Sub to gain multiple boosts before passing
can pass multiple times per game if still healthy and have more recipients, ideas of what to set up on, when to wisp, the fact that it can eb used as death fodder after passing

Team Options
========

  • Powerful, slower wallbreakers such as Marowak, Octillery, Cacturne
  • Screens/Memento support can ease Combusken's time passing multiple boosts, or subs
slightly more things can go into this like water checks or hazard setters for ur breakers or whatever, it's naturally going to be short but again with the minimum effort thing

completely missing other options???????? put critpass from above, swords dance which probably isn't shit just outclassed by monf, HP rock hits pelipper and alt but weaker so u have to chip them first


Checks and Counters this is formatted incorrectly, look at other in progress analyses. it's directly written up in complete sentences, not put into bullets. also look at how to give them more detail, or any meaningful information really
===================

  • SpD mons like Clef, Muk, Grumpig can stomach any hits from LO Combusken with ease can turn this into "specially defensive pokemon"
  • Combusken is walled by Altaria if it doesn't run HP Ice, and walled by Pelipper if it doesn't run HP Electric "flying types"
  • Fast Pokemon like Jumpluff, Floatzel, Dodrio will still outspeed Combusken even at +1, as well as all Scarfers "faster pokemon"
another section for ground types too since marowak bones thru speedpass, brava can check offensive, so can sturdy golem and gabite
 

MZ

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Give examples of things that use rocks, don't write up the analysis with the same description of sub in both moves and UT for the second set, and that's good 1/3 sorry no stamp on mobile
 
[OVERVIEW]

[SET]


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

  • Would add a mention of the fact that focus blast is strong enough to kill offensive Pokemon such as Floatzel and Rapidash after Stealth Rock, and that Combusken hits quite hard in general
Set Details
========

Usage Tips
========

  • I would also say this can have wallbreaking utility too but not necessary
  • Be careful with protect note since it is a free turn for the opponent since it is so predictable
Team Options
========

  • would add electric types too since combusken is nice on momentum based teams and they force out water-types and wear down specially bulky pokemon like grumpig

[SET]
name: Speed Pass
move 1: Will-O-Wisp
move 2: Substitute
move 3: Baton Pass
move 4: Protect
item: Eviolite
ability: Speed Boost
nature: Timid
evs: 248 HP / 8 SpD / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

Usage Tips
========


Team Options
========

  • idk add servine and cacturne since it comes in sort of easily against stuff that combusken rules
  • also bouffalant is cool
  • maybe healing wish mr mime?

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

  • Toxic
  • physically based all out attacker still has the niche in speed boost?
  • Offensive subpass maybe?

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

**Specially Bulky Pokemon**: Add that Grumpig sometimes carries Whirlwind too

**Fast Pokemon**: you could mention that a few of these can hit combusken behind a substitute too via sound moves or infiltrator!

Politoed and Lumineon probably should be added too especially since the latter can get momentum with uturn and the first can potentially perish song and in general walls
Prinplup too i guess but more fodder than the rest



2/3
 
Last edited:
amcheck
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[OVERVIEW]

One of only two viable Fighting-type Pokemon in the PU tier, Combusken's access to the Speed Boost ability allows it to set itself apart from its running mate Monferno, and grants it two different niches. Combusken's access to high powered STAB moves and decent offensive stats allow it to run a dangerous offensive set, while its decent defensive typing allow it to run an effective Baton Pass set. Despite having an effective and defined niche, Combusken still suffers some competition from Monferno, which boasts a higher base Speed stat, as well as access to Close Combat and Mach Punch. Combusken's access to Speed Boost isn't always enough to remedy its low Speed stat, as Combusken is still outsped by a number of offensive Pokemon at +1, and even some Choice Scarf users at +2.

[SET]
name: Life Orb Attacker
move 1: Fire Blast
move 2: Focus Blast
move 3: Hidden Power [Ice] / Hidden Power [Electric] / Baton Pass
move 4: Protect
item: Life Orb
ability: Speed Boost
nature: Timid
evs: 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

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

Protect allows Combusken to stall out a turn and gain a speed boost Speed boost, while also scouting potential choice items. Fire Blast and Focus Blast are Combusken's powerful STAB moves, their high base power and decent coverage somewhat making up for Combusken's average Special Attack stat, with Focus Blast being strong enough to KO OHKO most offensive Pokemon, (AC) such as Rapidash and Floatzel after Stealth Rock. Hidden Power Electric is used to OHKO Pokemon such as Pelipper and Swanna, while Hidden Power Ice hits Altaria and OHKOs OHKOes (OHKOs is the plural form, OHKOes is the verb) Vibrava and Gabite. Baton Pass can be run over Hidden Power to maintain offensive pressure by passing Speed boosts into to wallbreakers that can threaten Combusken's checks.

Set Details
========

Speed Boost enables Combusken to act as an effective late-game cleaner. Maximum Speed and Special Attack investment is required to ensure that Combusken is as fast and as strnog strong as possible. A Timid nature is necessary to outspeed the likes of Leafeon, Dodrio, (AC) and Rapidash at +1. Life Orb is a requirement on offensive Combusken, as it somewhat remedies its otherwise mediocre base 85 Special Attack stat.

Usage Tips
========

Baton Pass + 2 attacks is generally better used in the early game early-game to break and pass speed boosts Speed boosts into other wallbreakers, while 3 attacks is better used as a dedicated cleaner in the late-game. It is best not to switch Combusken directly into attacks, even resisted ones, as it is very frail, (RC) and quickly worn down by hazards. This is especially true for 3 attacks Combusken, which should avoid switching in as much as possible in the hopes of keeping itself out of range of being revenge killed by priority attacks. If it can do this then it will be much more threatening as a late-game cleaner. Bringing Combusken in on double switches or after a sack is the preferred way to go. Use Protect wisely, as is can be somewhat obvious when Combusken is going to use Protect when facing a faster Pokemon, you can use this which to your advantage if you play aggressively which can be taken advantage of.

Team Options
========

Powerful wallbreakers such as Stoutland and Chatot provide good support for Combusken as they are able to bust through some of the sturdier walls that Combusken may be unable to break through, paving the way for Combusken to clean up in the late game late-game. Baton Pass variants of Combusken are also occasionally able to pass wallbreakers speed boosts Speed boosts which can allow them to wallbreak more effectively. Leafeon is a good partner due to its ability to check a multitude of Water- and Ground-types that may threaten Combusken, while also Knocking Off being able to use Knock Off on defensive Pokemon such as Vullaby and Clefairy to remove their Eviolite (Is this correct?). Pursuit support from the likes of Stoutland and Krokorok is appreciated to weaken defensive Pokemon such as Grumpig and Muk. Since many Combusken checks are Flying-types, Stealth Rock support from the likes of Golem and Metang can be useful to weaken them. Lastly, Electric-types such as Zebstrika and Rotom-F can be used to pressure the Water-types that threaten Combusken, while also weakening Pokemon such as Grumpig.

[SET]
name: Speed Pass
move 1: Will-O-Wisp
move 2: Substitute
move 3: Baton Pass
move 4: Protect
item: Eviolite
ability: Speed Boost
nature: Timid
evs: 248 HP / 8 SpD / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

Moves
========

Protect enables Combusken to stall out turns to gain Speed Boosts Speed boosts. Substitute enables Combusken to set up on weaker or resisted attacks, or simply just bide a turn to gain an additional speed boost Speed boost. Will-O-Wisp is used to wear down common switchins switch-ins such as Pelipper and Grumpig, while also burning physical attackers such as Metang so that their attacks cannot break its Substitute. Baton Pass allows Combusken to pass any Speed boosts or Substitutes that it has attained to a teammate. Attacking moves such as Focus Blast and Fire Blast can potentially be run over Will-O-Wisp allowing to allow Combusken to deal damage to Pokemon such as Ninetales which may otherwise use Combusken as setup fodder, however without investment or a boosting item these attacks are relatively weak and the utility of Will-O-Wisp is preferred.

Set Details
========

Maximum Speed investment alongside a Timid nature is neccesary to enable Combusken to outspeed Pokemon such as Simipour at +1 so that it can use Substitute before being hit with Hydro Pump, biding another turn and gaining another Speed Boost. Maximum HP investment in combination with Eviolite allows Combusken to create a Substitute that isn't broken by common attacks such as Clefable's Moonblast or Leafeon's Moonblast Leaf Blade (Leafeon can't learn Moonblast? I'm assuming this is what you mean). Attack investment isn't needed since Combusken often doesn't run an attacking move.

Usage Tips
========

Combusken is best used in the early game to pass Speed to powerful wallbreakers that will then attempt to break down the opposing team. Use Protect and Substitute to bide turns and gain Speed boosts, it is usually best to try to attain enough speed boosts Speed boosts that the recipient of the Speed will be able to outspeed every Pokemon that would be able to threaten it in return. Combusken's investment in HP combined with Eviolite usually gives it the bulk to pass multiple times throughout a game, use this to your advantage and don't be afraid to be aggressive with your wallbreakers.

Team Options
========

SpeedPass teams are usually formulaic and don't necessarily follow normal team structures. A SpeedPass team will usually be comprised of Combusken, three recipients, and two support Pokemon. Powerful, slower wallbreakers such as Cacturne, Marowak, and Beheeyem are some of the best recipients, as the speed boost Speed boost makes up for their mediocre Speed stat and enables them to more effectively wallbreak. Set-up Pokemon sweepers such as Bouffalant and Servine are also good recipients for a similar reason. Dual Screens or Memento support can also be useful to ease Combusken's time setting up Substitute, however there aren't a great deal of viable Pokemon that can provide this support. Healing Wish support from Mr. Mime can be useful to heal Combusken so that it can Baton Pass more Speed boosts, or a threatening wallbreaker that has been weakened or statused.

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

Focus Energy is a gimmicky option that can be used over Will-O-Wisp on the dedicated Baton Pass set granting the recipient a heightened chance to land a critical hit. Pokemon such as Sniper + Scope Lens Octillery or multi-hit move users such as Bonemerang Marowak are some of the more common recipients of CritPass. Swords Dance, or All-out-attacking all-out attacking physical sets can both be run, but are generally outclassed by Monferno due to the fact that Combusken lacks a powerful Fighting STAB move or a priority move.

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

**Specially Bulky Pokemon**: Muk, Grumpig, and Specially Defensive Clefairy are just a few examples of Pokemon that boast enough special bulk to reliably switch in and deal with Combusken. Muk and Clefairy boast reliable recovery, whilst Grumpig threatens Combusken with its Psychic STAB, but can also negate the potential for Speed pass with Whirlwind if it so chooses. Also, since Combusken can only run one Hidden Power, sets lacking Hidden Power Ice will be walled by Altaria, whilst sets lacking Hidden Power Electric will be walled by Pelipper.

**Fast Faster Pokemon**: Combusken Combusken's unimpressive base 55 Speed means that even after a boost it is still outsped by naturally fast Pokemon such as Floatzel, Jumpluff, and Dodrio as well as all Choice Scarf users. Faster Choice Scarf users such as Chatot and Mr. Mime can even outspeed Combusken at +2. Jumpluff and Chatot can also hit Combusken through its Substitute thanks to Infiltrator and Boomburst respectively.

**Ground-types**: Vibrava, Gabite, Marowak, and Golem can usually live a hit and retaliate with Super Effective Ground STAB its super effective Ground-type STAB. Marowak is particularly threatening to the Speed Pass set due to the fact that Bonemerang hits multiple times, which breaks Substitutes.

**Water-types**: Pokemon such as Politoed and Lumineon are able to take any hit from Combusken, and threaten it in return with their Water STAB Water-type STAB. Defensive Politoed can also run Perish Song to neutralise Baton Pass sets.
 
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[OVERVIEW]

One of only two viable Fighting-type Pokemon in the PU tier, Combusken's access to the Speed Boost ability allows it to set itself apart from its running mate Monferno, Monferno and grants it two different niches. Combusken's access to high powered high-powered STAB moves and its decent offensive stats allow it to run a dangerous offensive set, while its decent defensive typing allow allows it to run an effective Baton Pass set. Despite having an effective and defined niche, Combusken still suffers some competition from Monferno, which boasts a higher base Speed stat, stat as well as access to Close Combat and Mach Punch. Combusken's access to Speed Boost isn't always enough to remedy its low Speed stat, as Combusken is still outsped by a number of offensive Pokemon at +1, +1 and even some Choice Scarf users at +2.

[SET]
name: Life Orb Attacker
move 1: Fire Blast
move 2: Focus Blast
move 3: Hidden Power [Ice] / Hidden Power [Electric] / Baton Pass
move 4: Protect
item: Life Orb
ability: Speed Boost
nature: Timid
evs: 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

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

Protect allows Combusken to stall out a turn and gain a Speed boost, boost while while also scouting for potential choice items. Fire Blast and Focus Blast are Combusken's powerful STAB moves, moves; their high base power Base Power and decent coverage somewhat making make up for Combusken's average Special Attack stat, with Focus Blast being strong enough to OHKO most offensive Pokemon, such as Rapidash and Floatzel Floatzel, after Stealth Rock. Hidden Power Electric is used to OHKO Pokemon such as Pelipper and Swanna, while Hidden Power Ice hits Altaria and OHKOes Vibrava and Gabite. (ice is mentioned first in the se so either change order here in the description or change it in the set above) Baton Pass can be run over Hidden Power to maintain offensive pressure by passing Speed boosts to wallbreakers that can threaten Combusken's checks.

Set Details
========

Speed Boost enables Combusken to act as an effective late-game cleaner. Maximum Speed and Special Attack investment is required to ensure that Combusken is as fast and as strong as possible. A Timid nature is necessary to outspeed the likes of Leafeon, Dodrio, and Rapidash at +1. Life Orb is a requirement on offensive Combusken, as it somewhat remedies its otherwise mediocre base 85 Special Attack stat.

Usage Tips
========

Baton Pass + 2 attacks is generally better used in the early-game to break and pass Speed boosts into other wallbreakers, while 3 attacks is better used as a dedicated cleaner in the late-game. It is best not to switch Combusken directly into attacks, even resisted ones, as it is very frail and quickly worn down by hazards. This is especially true for 3 attacks Combusken, which should avoid switching in as much as possible in the hopes of keeping itself out of range of being revenge killed by priority attacks. If it can do this then it will be much more threatening as a late-game cleaner. Bringing Combusken in on double switches or after a sack teammate has fainted is the preferred way to go. Use Protect wisely, as it is can be somewhat obvious when that Combusken is going to use Protect the move when facing a faster Pokemon, which can be taken advantage of.

Team Options
========

Powerful wallbreakers such as Stoutland and Chatot provide good support for Combusken Combusken, as they are able to bust through some of the sturdier walls that Combusken may be unable to break through, paving the way for Combusken it to clean up in the late-game. Baton Pass variants of Combusken are also occasionally able to pass wallbreakers Speed boosts which that can allow them to wallbreak more effectively. Leafeon is a good partner due to its ability to check a multitude of Water- and Ground-types that may threaten Combusken, while also being able to use Knock Off on defensive Pokemon such as Vullaby and Clefairy to remove their Eviolite. Pursuit support from the likes of Stoutland and Krokorok is appreciated to weaken defensive Pokemon such as Grumpig and Muk. Since many Combusken checks are Flying-types, Stealth Rock support from the likes of Golem and Metang can be useful to weaken them. Lastly, Electric-types such as Zebstrika and Rotom-F can be used to pressure the Water-types that threaten Combusken, while also weakening Pokemon such as Grumpig.

[SET]
name: Speed Pass
move 1: Will-O-Wisp
move 2: Substitute
move 3: Baton Pass
move 4: Protect
item: Eviolite
ability: Speed Boost
nature: Timid
evs: 248 HP / 8 SpD / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

Moves
========

Protect enables Combusken to stall out turns to gain Speed boosts. Substitute enables Combusken to set up on weaker or resisted attacks, or simply just bide a turn to gain an additional Speed boost. Will-O-Wisp is used to wear down common switch-ins such as Pelipper and Grumpig, while also burning physical attackers such as Metang so that their attacks cannot break its Substitute. Baton Pass allows Combusken to pass any Speed boosts or Substitutes that it has attained to a teammate. Attacking moves such as Focus Blast and Fire Blast can potentially be run over Will-O-Wisp to allow Combusken to deal damage to Pokemon such as Ninetales Ninetales, which may otherwise use Combusken as setup fodder, fodder; however however, without investment or a boosting item item, these attacks are relatively weak and the utility of Will-O-Wisp is preferred.

Set Details
========

Maximum Speed investment alongside a Timid nature is neccesary to enable Combusken to outspeed Pokemon such as Simipour at +1 so that it can use Substitute before being hit with by Hydro Pump, biding another turn and gaining another Speed Boost. boost. Maximum HP investment in combination with Eviolite allows Combusken to create a Substitute that isn't broken by common attacks such as Clefable's Moonblast or Leafeon's Leaf Blade. Attack investment isn't needed since Combusken often doesn't run an attacking move.

Usage Tips
========

Combusken is best used in the early game to pass Speed to powerful wallbreakers that will then attempt to break down the opposing team. Use Protect and Substitute to bide stall turns and gain Speed boosts, boosts; it is usually best to try to attain enough Speed boosts so that the Baton Pass recipient of the Speed will be able to outspeed every Pokemon that would be able to threaten it in return. Combusken's investment in HP combined with Eviolite usually gives it the bulk to pass multiple times throughout a game, game, so use this to your advantage and don't be afraid to be aggressive with your wallbreakers.

Team Options
========

SpeedPass teams Team based on Speed Boost + Baton Pass are usually formulaic and don't necessarily follow normal team structures. A SpeedPass Such a team team will usually be comprised of Combusken, three recipients, and two support Pokemon. Powerful, slower wallbreakers such as Cacturne, Marowak, and Beheeyem are some of the best recipients, as the Speed boost makes up for their mediocre Speed stat and enables them to more effectively wallbreak. Set-up Setup sweepers such as Bouffalant and Servine are also good recipients for a similar reason. Dual Screens screens or Memento support can also be useful to ease Combusken's time setting up Substitute, Substitute; however however, there aren't a great deal of viable Pokemon that can provide this support. Healing Wish support from Mr. Mime can be useful to heal Combusken so that it can Baton Pass more Speed boosts, boosts or a threatening wallbreaker that has been weakened or statused.

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

Focus Energy is a gimmicky option that can be used over Will-O-Wisp on the dedicated Baton Pass set granting to grant the recipient a heightened chance to land a critical hit. Pokemon such as Sniper + Scope Lens Octillery or multi-hit move users such as Bonemerang Marowak are some of the best users for this strategy. more common recipients of CritPass. Swords Dance, or all-out-attacking A Swords Dance or all-out attacking physical sets set can both be run, but these are generally outclassed by Monferno due to the fact that Combusken lacks a powerful Fighting STAB move or a priority move.

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

**Specially Bulky Pokemon**: Muk, Grumpig, and Specially Defensive specially defensive Clefairy are just a few examples of Pokemon that boast enough special bulk to reliably switch in and deal with Combusken. Muk and Clefairy boast reliable recovery, whilst while Grumpig threatens Combusken with its Psychic STAB, STAB move, but and it can also negate the potential for Speed pass with Whirlwind Whirlwind, if it so chooses. Also, since Combusken can only run one Hidden Power, sets lacking Hidden Power Ice will be walled by Altaria, whilst while sets lacking Hidden Power Electric will be walled by Pelipper.

**Faster Pokemon**: Combusken's unimpressive base 55 Speed means that even after a boost it is still outsped by naturally fast Pokemon such as Floatzel, Jumpluff, and Dodrio as well as all Choice Scarf users. Faster Choice Scarf users such as Chatot and Mr. Mime can even outspeed Combusken at +2. Jumpluff and Chatot can also hit Combusken through its Substitute thanks to Infiltrator and Boomburst Boomburst, respectively.

**Ground-types**: Vibrava, Gabite, Marowak, and Golem can usually live a hit and retaliate with a super effective Ground-type STAB. STAB move. Marowak is particularly threatening to the Speed Pass set due to the fact that Bonemerang hits multiple times, which breaks Substitutes.

**Water-types**: Pokemon such as Politoed and Lumineon are able to take any hit from Combusken, Combusken and threaten it in return with their Water-type STAB. STAB attacks. Defensive Politoed can also run Perish Song to neutralise neutralize Baton Pass sets.

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Lumari

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GP 2/2
[OVERVIEW]

One of only two viable Fighting-type Pokemon in the PU tier, Combusken's access to Speed Boost allows it to set sets (dangler technically rn) itself apart from its running mate Monferno and grants it finds two different niches through its ability Speed Boost. Combusken's access to high-powered STAB moves and its decent offensive stats allow it to run a dangerous offensive set, while its decent defensive typing allows it to run an effective Baton Pass set. Despite having an effective and defined niche, Combusken still suffers some competition from Monferno, which boasts a higher base Speed stat as well as access to Close Combat and Mach Punch. Additionally, Combusken's access to Speed Boost isn't always enough to remedy its low Speed stat, as Combusken is still outsped by a number of offensive Pokemon at +1 and even some Choice Scarf users at +2.

[SET]
name: Life Orb Attacker
move 1: Fire Blast
move 2: Focus Blast
move 3: Hidden Power [Ice] Ice / Hidden Power [Electric] Electric / Baton Pass
move 4: Protect
item: Life Orb
ability: Speed Boost
nature: Timid
evs: 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

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

Protect allows Combusken to stall out a turn and gain a Speed boost while also scouting for potential Choice items. Fire Blast and Focus Blast are Combusken's powerful STAB moves; their high Base Power and decent coverage somewhat make up for Combusken's average Special Attack stat, with Focus Blast being strong enough to OHKO most offensive Pokemon, such as Rapidash and Floatzel, after Stealth Rock. Hidden Power Ice hits Altaria and OHKOes Vibrava and Gabite, while Hidden Power Electric is used an option to OHKO Pokemon such as Pelipper and Swanna. Baton Pass can be run over Hidden Power to maintain offensive pressure by passing Speed boosts to wallbreakers that can threaten Combusken's checks.

Set Details
========

Speed Boost enables Combusken to act as an effective late-game cleaner. Maximum Speed and Special Attack investment is required to ensure that Combusken is as fast and as strong as possible. A Timid nature is necessary to outspeed the likes of Leafeon, Dodrio, and Rapidash at +1. Life Orb is a requirement on offensive Combusken, as it somewhat remedies its otherwise mediocre base 85 Special Attack stat.

Usage Tips
========

Baton Pass + 2 attacks is generally better used in the early-game to break and pass Speed boosts into other wallbreakers, while 3 attacks is better used as a dedicated cleaner in the late-game. It is best not to switch Combusken directly into attacks, even resisted ones, as it is very frail and quickly worn down by hazards. This is especially true for 3 attacks Combusken, which should avoid switching in as much as possible in the hopes of keeping itself out of range of being revenge killed by priority attacks. If it can do this then it will be much more threatening as a late-game cleaner. Bringing Combusken in on double switches or after a teammate has fainted is the preferred way to go. Use Protect wisely, as it is somewhat obvious that Combusken is going to use the move when facing a faster Pokemon, which can be taken advantage of.

Team Options
========

Powerful wallbreakers such as Stoutland and Chatot provide good support for Combusken, as they are able to bust through some of the sturdier walls that it may be unable to break through, paving the way for Combusken to clean up in the late-game. Baton Pass variants of Combusken are also occasionally able to pass wallbreakers Speed boosts that can allow them to wallbreak more effectively. Leafeon is a good partner due to its ability to check a multitude of Water- and Ground-types that may threaten Combusken (RC) while also being able to use and access to Knock Off on to remove Eviolites of defensive Pokemon such as Vullaby and Clefairy to remove their Eviolite. (sentence structure cariety) Pursuit support from the likes of Stoutland and Krokorok is appreciated to weaken defensive Pokemon such as Grumpig and Muk. Since many Combusken checks are Flying-types, Stealth Rock support from the likes of Golem and Metang can be useful to weaken them. Lastly, Electric-types such as Zebstrika and Rotom-F can be used to pressure the Water-types that threaten Combusken (RC) while also weakening Pokemon such as Grumpig.

[SET]
name: Speed Pass
move 1: Will-O-Wisp
move 2: Substitute
move 3: Baton Pass
move 4: Protect
item: Eviolite
ability: Speed Boost
nature: Timid
evs: 248 HP / 8 SpD / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]

Moves
========

Protect enables Combusken to stall out turns to gain Speed boosts. Substitute enables Combusken to set up on weaker or resisted attacks (RC) or simply just bide a turn to gain an additional Speed boost. Will-O-Wisp is used to wear down common switch-ins such as Pelipper and Grumpig (RC) while also burning physical attackers such as Metang so that their attacks cannot break its Substitute. Baton Pass allows Combusken to pass any Speed boosts or Substitutes that it has attained to a teammate. Attacking moves such as Focus Blast and Fire Blast can potentially be run over Will-O-Wisp to allow Combusken to deal damage to Pokemon such as Ninetales, which may otherwise use Combusken as setup fodder; however, without investment or a boosting item, these attacks are relatively weak and the utility of Will-O-Wisp is preferred.

Set Details
========

Maximum Speed investment alongside a Timid nature is neccesary necessary to enable Combusken to outspeed Pokemon such as Simipour at +1 so that it can use Substitute before being hit by Hydro Pump, biding another turn and gaining another Speed boost. Maximum HP investment in combination with Eviolite allows Combusken to create a Substitute that isn't broken by common attacks such as Clefable's Clefairy's (it hasn't fallen _that_ deep yet) Moonblast or Leafeon's Leaf Blade. Attack investment isn't needed, (AC) since Combusken often doesn't run an attacking move.

Usage Tips
========

Combusken is best used in the early-game (AH) to pass Speed to powerful wallbreakers that will then attempt to break down the opposing team. Use Protect and Substitute to stall turns and gain Speed boosts; it is usually best to try to attain enough Speed boosts that the recipient will be able to outspeed every Pokemon that would be able to threaten it in return. Combusken's investment in HP combined with Eviolite usually gives it the bulk to pass multiple times throughout a game, so use this to your advantage and don't be afraid to be aggressive with your wallbreakers.

Team Options
========

Teams based on Speed Boost + Baton Pass are usually formulaic and don't necessarily follow normal team structures. Such a team will usually be comprised of Combusken, three recipients, and two support Pokemon. Powerful, slower wallbreakers such as Cacturne, Marowak, and Beheeyem are some of the best recipients, as the Speed boost makes up for their mediocre Speed stat and enables them to more effectively wallbreak. Setup sweepers such as Bouffalant and Servine are also good recipients for a similar reason. Dual screens or Memento support can also be useful to ease Combusken's time setting up Substitute; however, there aren't a great deal of viable Pokemon that can provide this support. Healing Wish support from Mr. Mime can be useful to heal Combusken so that it can Baton Pass more Speed boosts or a threatening wallbreaker that has been weakened or statused.

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

Focus Energy is a gimmicky option that can be used over Will-O-Wisp on the dedicated Baton Pass set to grant the recipient a heightened chance to land a critical hit. Pokemon such as Sniper + Scope Lens Octillery or multi-hit move users such as Bonemerang Marowak are some of the best users for this strategy. A Swords Dance or all-out-attacking physical set can be run, but these are generally outclassed by Monferno due to the fact that Combusken lacks a powerful Fighting STAB move or a priority move.

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

**Specially Bulky Pokemon**: Muk, Grumpig, and specially defensive Clefairy are just a few examples of Pokemon that boast enough special bulk to reliably switch in on and deal with Combusken. Muk and Clefairy boast reliable recovery, while Grumpig threatens Combusken with its Psychic STAB move, and it can also negate the potential for Speed pass with Whirlwind, if it so chooses. Also, since Combusken can only run one Hidden Power, sets lacking Hidden Power Ice will be walled by Altaria, while sets lacking Hidden Power Electric will be walled by Pelipper.

**Faster Pokemon**: Combusken's unimpressive base 55 Speed means that even after a boost it is still outsped by naturally fast Pokemon such as Floatzel, Jumpluff, and Dodrio as well as all Choice Scarf users. Faster Choice Scarf users such as Chatot and Mr. Mime can even outspeed Combusken at +2. Jumpluff and Chatot can also hit Combusken through its Substitute thanks to Infiltrator and Boomburst, respectively.

**Ground-types**: Vibrava, Gabite, Marowak, and Golem can usually live take a hit and retaliate with a super effective Ground-type STAB move. Marowak is particularly threatening to the Speed Pass set due to the fact that Bonemerang hits multiple times, which breaks Substitutes.

**Water-types**: Pokemon such as Politoed and Lumineon are able to take any hit from Combusken and threaten it in return with their Water-type STAB attacks. Defensive Politoed can also run Perish Song to neutralize Baton Pass sets.
 

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