Monotype Kingdra (Water)

QC: iLlama / Moosical / Misaka Mikoto
GP: Mr. Uncompetitive / The Dutch Plumberjack



[OVERVIEW]

Water
========

Kingdra's access to Swift Swim and a strong STAB move in Hydro Pump makes it one of the best wallbreakers and sweepers under rain, heavily denting most Pokemon in combination with its STAB Draco Meteor. Although this STAB combination is resisted by many Pokemon, Kingdra's access to Ice Beam helps out in letting it hit threats like Tapu Bulu and Cradily. Kingdra has pretty decent bulk and a neutrality to Electric- and Grass-type attacks, which helps given the fact that it needs to continuously switch in throughout a match. While Kingdra can outspeed the entire unboosted metagame in rain, its Speed is underwhelming outside of it. Additionally, without rain boosting its Water-type STAB moves, Kingdra's Special Attack is unimpressive. Therefore, it requires specific team support that limits Kingdra to rain teams.

[SET]
name: Rain Sweeper (Water)
move 1: Hydro Pump
move 2: Draco Meteor
move 3: Ice Beam
move 4: Surf / Scald
item: Choice Specs
ability: Swift Swim
nature: Modest
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Hydro Pump is an insanely strong STAB move under rain that lets Kingdra 2HKO most Pokemon, including those that resist it, such as Rotom-W, Latios, and Slowbro. Draco Meteor lets Kingdra muscle past Pokemon that don't take much from Hydro Pump, such as Mega Venusaur and Lanturn. Ice Beam gives Kingdra a reliable tool against Dragon teams, notably hitting Mega Altaria, while also letting it hit certain Grass-type threats, like Tapu Bulu and Cradily, hard. While Hydro Pump is used to wallbreak, Surf lets Kingdra clean up weakened teams reliably thanks to its higher accuracy and PP. Alternatively, Scald can be used to try to cripple common switch-ins, like Ferrothorn, at the cost of a little power.

Set Details
========

Maximum investment is made in Speed, which, alongside Swift Swim, lets Kingdra outspeed the entire unboosted metagame under rain. 252 EVs are put into Special Attack with a Modest nature to let Kingdra hit as hard as possible. Choice Specs patches up Kingdra's average Special Attack and lets it wallbreak more easily under rain. 4 EVs are placed in Special Defense to prevent Download users, like Porygon2 and Porygon-Z, from getting a Special Attack boost.

Usage Tips
========

Kingdra should primarily be used in rain. Bring it in as often as possible early-game to wallbreak with a strong rain- and Choice Specs-boosted Hydro Pump. Under rain, Hydro Pump is strong enough to 2HKO even targets that resist it and normally don't take much damage, like Mega Venusaur after Stealth Rock damage. Therefore, try to keep the rain turns in mind to make the most use out of them. Kingdra can often be used to take out its own checks early-game and clean up with Surf or Scald later on. That being said, don't let it take too much chip damage from status or entry hazards, since it needs to switch in regularly. Therefore, try to bring it into play through Pelipper's slow U-turn or Politoed's Eject Button. Definitely keep Kingdra away from paralysis, as it prevents it from doing either of its jobs: sweeping and wallbreaking. While a paralyzed Kingdra can outspeed certain slower walls in the rain, it can't wallbreak efficiently between Hydro Pump's shaky accuracy and the chance to be fully paralyzed. For the most part, Kingdra shouldn't be used outside of rain, since its Special Attack and Speed are nothing to write home about. However, Choice Specs-boosted Draco Meteor is still pretty strong and can still be used to wallbreak without rain. Should Draco Meteor be used in rain, be wary that using it forces Kingdra to switch out and waste rain turns due to the Special Attack drop.

Team Options
========

Since Kingdra absolutely requires rain support, rain setters like Pelipper and Politoed are great partners. Pelipper is notable for being able to check Grass-types like Mega Venusaur. Both of these Pokemon can also bring Kingdra into play safely through U-turn and Eject Button, respectively. Wallbreakers like Tail Glow Manaphy, Azumarill, Supersonic Skystrike Gyarados, and Keldeo can take care of checks to Kingdra, like Chansey, letting Kingdra clean up easily. Greninja's access to Protean and a fantastic movepool lets it customize its moveset to beat checks to Kingdra. For example, Greninja can take care of Mega Venusaur with Extrasensory and Mantine with Hidden Power Electric. Cleaners like Mega Sharpedo, Mega Swampert, and Kabutops appreciate Kingdra's wallbreaking abilities. Swampert and Seismitoad provide Electric immunities and can also set Stealth Rock, which makes wallbreaking easier. Toxapex can wear down the opposing team with Toxic Spikes while also acting as a reliable pivot into priority moves for Kingdra. Lanturn's ability Volt Absorb lets it act as a fantastic check to Alolan Raichu. Lanturn can also cure any status condition with Heal Bell and bring Kingdra in safely through Volt Switch.

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

Water
--------

Kingdra doesn't have any viable options outside of the main set.

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

Water
--------
**Chansey**: Chansey completely walls Kingdra and can KO it with Seismic Toss or cripple it with status.

**Walls**: Specially defensive Pokemon like Cradily, Ferrothorn, and Assault Vest Araquanid can switch into Kingdra and whittle it down or take it out with Toxic, Leech Seed, and Mirror Coat, respectively. Mega Venusaur is notable for being able to switch into Hydro Pump and Ice Beam, thanks to Thick Fat, and beat Kingdra one-on-one. It can't switch into Draco Meteor or Hydro Pump in rain after Stealth Rock damage, however.

**Defensive Water-types**: Most defensive Water-types, such as Toxapex and Mantine, resist Hydro Pump and can comfortably switch into Draco Meteor. Certain Water-types that are immune to or resist Dragon, like Tapu Fini and Empoleon, are great switch-ins as well.

**Residual Damage**: Since Kingdra needs to come into play often, letting it accumulate too much chip damage can lead to it being picked off through priority moves.

**Trace**: Trace users like Mega Alakazam and Gardevoir can copy Swift Swim, outspeed Kingdra, and KO it easily.

**Paralysis**: Paralysis halves Kingdra's Speed, which means it can no longer sweep.

**Alolan Raichu**: Under Electric Terrain, Alolan Raichu can easily outspeed Kingdra and KO it with a boosted Thunderbolt.
 
Last edited:

lotiasite

undedgy
is a Forum Moderatoris a Top Contributoris a Smogon Media Contributoris a Social Media Contributor Alumnus
hi, just some suggestions. don't have to implement these

QC: x / x /x
GP: x / x


[OVERVIEW]

Water
========

* Kingdra's access to Swift Swim and a strong STAB move in Hydro Pump makes it one of the best wallbreakers and sweepers under rain.
* This combined with Kingdra's STAB Draco Meteor let it heavily dent most Pokemon.
* Although this STAB combination is resisted by many Pokemon, Kingdra's access to Ice Beam helps out in letting it hit threats like Tapu Bulu and Cradily.
* Kingdra has pretty decent bulk which helps with the fact that it needs to continuously switch in throughout a match. id also mention its pretty good defensive typing; only two weaknesses and neutralities to electric and grass
* While Kingdra can outspeed the entire unboosted metagame in rain, its Speed is underwhelming outside of it. Additionally, without rain boosting its Water-type STAB moves, Kingdra's Special Attack is unimpressive. id also add to this that kingdra is very predictable and is walled by almost every notable special wall
* Therefore, it requires specific team support which limits Kingdra to rain teams.

[SET]
name: Rain Sweeper (Water)
move 1: Hydro Pump
move 2: Draco Meteor
move 3: Ice Beam
move 4: Surf / Scald
item: Choice Specs
ability: Swift Swim
nature: Modest
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

* Hydro Pump is an insanely strong STAB move under rain which lets Kingdra 2HKO most Pokemon, including those that resist it.
* Draco Meteor lets Kingdra muscle past Pokemon don't take much from Hydro Pump, such as Mega Venusaur and Lanturn. hydro has a pretty high chance to 2hko venu after sr and doesn't have the spa drop. you even mention this later, so id mention something like ferro
* Ice Beam gives Kingdra a reliable tool against Dragon teams, while also letting it hit certain Grass-type threats, like Tapu Bulu and Cradily, hard
* Under rain, Surf lets Kingdra clean up weakened teams easily. Alternatively, Scald can be used to try to cripple common switch-ins, like Ferrothorn, at the cost of a little power. mention that they're both a lot more reliable than hydro bc acc and pp. do note that hydro should be used more to wallbreak though

Set Details
========

* Maximum investment is made in Speed which, alongside Swift Swim, lets Kingdra outspeed the entire unboosted metagame under rain.
* 252 EVs are put into Special Attack with a Modest nature to let Kingdra hit as hard as possible.
* Choice Specs patches up Kingdra's average Special Attack and lets it wallbreak more easily under rain.
* 4 EVs are placed in Special Defense to give Download users, like Porygon2 and Porygon-Z, an Attack boost.

Usage Tips
========

* Kingdra should primarily be used in rain. Bring it in as often as possible early-game to wallbreak with a strong rain and Choice Specs-boosted Hydro Pump. Hydro Pump is strong enough to 2HKO even resisted targets, like Mega Venusaur after Stealth Rock damage.
* Kingdra can often be used to take out its own checks early-game and clean up with Surf or Scald later on.
* That being said, don't let it take too much chip damage from status or entry hazards since it needs to switch in regularly. Therefore, try to bring it into play through Pelipper's slow U-turn or Politoed's Eject Button.
* use defog or spin to remove hazards
* Definitely keep Kingdra away from paralysis. Being paralyzed prevents Kingdra from doing both of its jobs; sweeping and wallbreaking. While it can outspeed certain slower walls in the rain, it can't wallbreak efficiently between Hydro Pump's shaky accuracy and a chance to be fully paralyzed.
* For the most part, Kingdra shouldn't be used outside of rain since its Special Attack and Speed are nothing to write home about. However, Choice Specs-boosted Draco Meteor is still pretty strong and can still be used to wallbreak without rain.
* Should Draco Meteor be used in rain, be wary that using it forces Kingdra to switch out and waste rain turns due to the Special Attack drop.
* possibly say something about hydro's pp; if you waste too much you might not be able to wallbreak enough

Team Options
========

* Since Kingdra absolutely requires rain support, rain setters like Pelipper and Politoed are great partners. Pelipper is notable for being able to check Grass-types like Mega Venusaur. Both these Pokemon can also bring Kingdra safely into play through U-turn and Eject Button, respectively.
* pelipper along with tapu fini or empoleon can also remove hazards with defog
* Wallbreakers like Tail Glow Manaphy, Azumarill, Supersonic Skystrike Gyarados, and Keldeo can take care of checks to Kingdra, like Chansey, letting Kingdra clean up easily.
* Greninja's access to Protean and a fantastic movepool lets it customise its moveset to beat checks to Kingdra. For example, Greninja can take care of Mega Venusaur with Extrasensory and Ferrothorn with Hidden Power Fire. not sure about hp fire since kingdra will always be used on rain, which weakens hp fire.
* Cleaners like Mega Sharpedo, Mega Swampert, and Kabutops appreciate Kingdra's wallbreaking abilities. id also mention z-belly drum azumarill here. also specifically mention swampert and kabutops as fellow rain sweepers
* Swampert and Seismitoad provide Electric immunities that can also set Stealth Rock. electric immunity isn't too important, mention sr making wallbreaking a lot easier, notably 2hkoing venu most of the time
* Toxapex can wear down the opposing team with Toxic Spikes while also acting as a reliable pivot into priority moves for Kingdra.
* Lanturn's ability Volt Absorb lets it act as a fantastic check to Alolan Raichu. Lanturn can also cure any status condition with Heal Bell and bring Kingdra in safely through Volt Switch.

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

Water
--------

* Kingdra doesn't have any viable options outside of the main set.

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

Water
--------
**Chansey**: Chansey completely walls Kingdra and can KO it with Seismic Toss

**Walls**: Specially defensive Pokemon like Cradily, Ferrothorn, and Assault Vest Araquanid can switch into Kingdra and whittle it down or take it out with Toxic, Leech Seed, and Mirror Coat, respectively. Mega Venusaur is notable for being able to switch into Hydro Pump and Ice Beam, thanks to Thick Fat, and beat Kingdra one-on-one. It can't switch into Draco Meteor or Hydro Pump in rain after Stealth Rock damage, however.

**Defensive Water-types**: Most defensive Water-types, such as Toxapex and Mantine, resist Hydro Pump and can comfortably switch into Draco Meteor. Certain Water-types that are immune to or resist Dragon, like Tapu Fini and Empoleon, are great switch-ins as well.

**Residual Damage**: Since Kingdra needs to come into play often, letting it accumulate too much chip damage can let it be picked off through priority.

**Trace**: Trace users like Mega Alakazam and Gardevoir can copy Swift Swim, outspeed Kingdra, and KO it easily.

**Paralysis**: Paralysis halves Kingdra's Speed, which means it can no longer sweep. any notable mons that can paralyze it?

**Alolan Raichu**: Under Electric Terrain, Alolan Raichu can easily outspeed and KO Kingdra with a boosted Thunderbolt.
 

iLlama

Nothing personal, I protect my people
QC: x / x /x
GP: x / x


[OVERVIEW]

Water
========

* Kingdra's access to Swift Swim and a strong STAB move in Hydro Pump makes it one of the best wallbreakers and sweepers under rain.
* This combined with Kingdra's STAB Draco Meteor let it heavily dent most Pokemon.
* Although this STAB combination is resisted by many Pokemon, Kingdra's access to Ice Beam helps out in letting it hit threats like Tapu Bulu and Cradily.
* Kingdra has pretty decent bulk which helps with the fact that it needs to continuously switch in throughout a match.
* While Kingdra can outspeed the entire unboosted metagame in rain, its Speed is underwhelming outside of it. Additionally, without rain boosting its Water-type STAB moves, Kingdra's Special Attack is unimpressive.
* Therefore, it requires specific team support which limits Kingdra to rain teams.


[SET]
name: Rain Sweeper (Water)
move 1: Hydro Pump
move 2: Draco Meteor
move 3: Ice Beam
move 4: Surf / Scald
item: Choice Specs
ability: Swift Swim
nature: Modest
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

* Hydro Pump is an insanely strong STAB move under rain which lets Kingdra 2HKO most Pokemon, including those that resist it. Examples of important Pokemon it breaks through.
* Draco Meteor lets Kingdra muscle past Pokemon don't take much from Hydro Pump, such as Mega Venusaur and Lanturn.
* Ice Beam gives Kingdra a reliable tool against Dragon teams, while also letting it hit certain Grass-type threats, like Tapu Bulu and Cradily, hard List Mega Altaria as an important example for Dragon.
* Under rain, Surf lets Kingdra clean up weakened teams easily. Alternatively, Scald can be used to try to cripple common switch-ins, like Ferrothorn, at the cost of a little power.

Whether under Hydro or Surf/Scald there needs to be a point about why Surf/Scald are standard options when Hydro is already on the set, i.e. accuracy, pp, etc.

Set Details
========

* Maximum investment is made in Speed which, alongside Swift Swim, lets Kingdra outspeed the entire unboosted metagame under rain.
* 252 EVs are put into Special Attack with a Modest nature to let Kingdra hit as hard as possible.
* Choice Specs patches up Kingdra's average Special Attack and lets it wallbreak more easily under rain.
* 4 EVs are placed in Special Defense to give Download users, like Porygon2 and Porygon-Z, an Attack boost.

Usage Tips
========

* Kingdra should primarily be used in rain. Bring it in as often as possible early-game to wallbreak with a strong rain and Choice Specs-boosted Hydro Pump. Hydro Pump is strong enough to 2HKO even resisted targets, like Mega Venusaur after Stealth Rock damage.
* Kingdra can often be used to take out its own checks early-game and clean up with Surf or Scald later on.
* That being said, don't let it take too much chip damage from status or entry hazards since it needs to switch in regularly. Therefore, try to bring it into play through Pelipper's slow U-turn or Politoed's Eject Button.
* Definitely keep Kingdra away from paralysis. Being paralyzed prevents Kingdra from doing both of its jobs; sweeping and wallbreaking. While it can outspeed certain slower walls in the rain, it can't wallbreak efficiently between Hydro Pump's shaky accuracy and a chance to be fully paralyzed.
* For the most part, Kingdra shouldn't be used outside of rain since its Special Attack and Speed are nothing to write home about. However, Choice Specs-boosted Draco Meteor is still pretty strong and can still be used to wallbreak without rain.
* Should Draco Meteor be used in rain, be wary that using it forces Kingdra to switch out and waste rain turns due to the Special Attack drop.
* A point about paying close attention to rain turns and making the most effective use out of them.

Team Options
========

* Since Kingdra absolutely requires rain support, rain setters like Pelipper and Politoed are great partners. Pelipper is notable for being able to check Grass-types like Mega Venusaur. Both these Pokemon can also bring Kingdra safely into play through U-turn and Eject Button, respectively.
* Wallbreakers like Tail Glow Manaphy, Azumarill, Supersonic Skystrike Gyarados, and Keldeo can take care of checks to Kingdra, like Chansey, letting Kingdra clean up easily.
* Greninja's access to Protean and a fantastic movepool lets it customise its moveset to beat checks to Kingdra. For example, Greninja can take care of Mega Venusaur with Extrasensory and Ferrothorn with Hidden Power Fire.
* Cleaners like Mega Sharpedo, Mega Swampert, and Kabutops appreciate Kingdra's wallbreaking abilities.
* Swampert and Seismitoad provide Electric immunities that can also set Stealth Rock.
* Toxapex can wear down the opposing team with Toxic Spikes while also acting as a reliable pivot into priority moves for Kingdra.
* Lanturn's ability Volt Absorb lets it act as a fantastic check to Alolan Raichu. Lanturn can also cure any status condition with Heal Bell and bring Kingdra in safely through Volt Switch.

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

Water
--------

* Kingdra doesn't have any viable options outside of the main set.

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

Water
--------
**Chansey**: Chansey completely walls Kingdra and can KO it with Seismic Toss or cripple it with status.

**Walls**: Specially defensive Pokemon like Cradily, Ferrothorn, and Assault Vest Araquanid can switch into Kingdra and whittle it down or take it out with Toxic, Leech Seed, and Mirror Coat, respectively. Mega Venusaur is notable for being able to switch into Hydro Pump and Ice Beam, thanks to Thick Fat, and beat Kingdra one-on-one. It can't switch into Draco Meteor or Hydro Pump in rain after Stealth Rock damage, however.

**Defensive Water-types**: Most defensive Water-types, such as Toxapex and Mantine, resist Hydro Pump and can comfortably switch into Draco Meteor. Certain Water-types that are immune to or resist Dragon, like Tapu Fini and Empoleon, are great switch-ins as well.

**Residual Damage**: Since Kingdra needs to come into play often, letting it accumulate too much chip damage can let it be picked off through priority.

**Trace**: Trace users like Mega Alakazam and Gardevoir can copy Swift Swim, outspeed Kingdra, and KO it easily.

**Paralysis**: Paralysis halves Kingdra's Speed, which means it can no longer sweep.

**Alolan Raichu**: Under Electric Terrain, Alolan Raichu can easily outspeed and KO Kingdra with a boosted Thunderbolt.
Just a few things. Looks good. QC 1/3
 

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
Set Details
* 4 EVs are placed in Special Defense to give Download users, like Porygon2 and Porygon-Z, an Attack boost.
-I'd change this to "prevent download users from receiving a special attack boost", but up to you

Usage Tips
* Kingdra should primarily be used in rain. Bring it in as often as possible early-game to wallbreak with a strong rain and Choice Specs-boosted Hydro Pump. Hydro Pump is strong enough to 2HKO even resisted targets, like Mega Venusaur after Stealth Rock damage.
- You say in set details that Hydro Pump isn't doing much to mega venusaur, and would therefore use draco meteor. Yet you're saying here it's strong enough to 2hko; I'd reword one of the two statements.

Rest looks good! QC 2/3
 

Mr. Uncompetitive

Ugh Cough! Cough! Splutter!
is a Contributor Alumnus
GP 1/2

Additions, (AC) = add comma
Removals, (RC) = remove comma
Comments


[OVERVIEW]

Water
========

Kingdra's access to Swift Swim and a strong STAB move in Hydro Pump makes it one of the best wallbreakers and sweepers under rain, (AC) heavily denting most Pokemon in combination with its STAB Draco Meteor. This combined with Kingdra's STAB Draco Meteor let it heavily dent most Pokemon. (flows better this way imo) Although this STAB combination is resisted by many Pokemon, Kingdra's access to Ice Beam helps out in letting it hit threats like Tapu Bulu and Cradily. Kingdra has pretty decent bulk and a neutrality to Electric- and Grass-type attacks, which helps with given (I prefer this word choice :X) the fact that it needs to continuously switch in throughout a match. While Kingdra can outspeed the entire unboosted metagame in rain, its Speed is underwhelming outside of it. Additionally, without rain boosting its Water-type STAB moves, Kingdra's Special Attack is unimpressive. Therefore, it requires specific team support which that limits Kingdra to rain teams.


[SET]
name: Rain Sweeper (Water)
move 1: Hydro Pump
move 2: Draco Meteor
move 3: Ice Beam
move 4: Surf / Scald
item: Choice Specs
ability: Swift Swim
nature: Modest
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Hydro Pump is an insanely strong STAB move under rain which that lets Kingdra 2HKO most Pokemon, including those that resist it, such as Rotom-W, Latios, and Slowbro. Draco Meteor lets Kingdra muscle past Pokemon that don't take much from Hydro Pump, such as Mega Venusaur and Lanturn. Ice Beam gives Kingdra a reliable tool against Dragon teams, notably htting hitting Mega Altaria, while also letting it hit certain Grass-type threats, like Tapu Bulu and Cradily, hard. While Hydro Pump is used to wallbreak, Surf lets Kingdra clean up weakened teams reliably thanks to its higher accuracy and PP. Alternatively, Scald can be used to try to cripple common switch-ins, like Ferrothorn, at the cost of a little power.

Set Details
========

Maximum investment is made in Speed which, alongside Swift Swim, lets Kingdra outspeed the entire unboosted metagame under rain. 252 EVs are put into Special Attack with a Modest nature to let Kingdra hit as hard as possible. Choice Specs patches up Kingdra's average Special Attack and lets it wallbreak more easily under rain. 4 EVs are placed in Special Defense to prevent Download users, like Porygon2 and Porygon-Z, from getting a Special Attack boost.

Usage Tips
========

Kingdra should primarily be used in rain. Bring it in as often as possible early-game to wallbreak with a strong rain and Choice Specs-boosted Hydro Pump. Under rain, Hydro Pump is strong enough to 2HKO even resisted targets that resist it and normally don't take much damage, like Mega Venusaur after Stealth Rock damage. Therefore, try to keep the rain turns in mind to make the most use out of them. Kingdra can often be used to take out its own checks early-game and clean up with Surf or Scald later on. That being said, don't let it take too much chip damage from status or entry hazards, (AC) since it needs to switch in regularly. Therefore, try to bring it into play through Pelipper's slow U-turn or Politoed's Eject Button. Definitely keep Kingdra away from paralysis. (remove period) Being paralyzed prevents Kingdra , (AC) as it prevents it from doing both either of its jobs; (remove semicolon) : (add colon) sweeping and wallbreaking. While it a paralyzed Kingdra (clarity) can outspeed certain slower walls in the rain, it can't wallbreak efficiently between Hydro Pump's shaky accuracy and a chance to be fully paralyzed. For the most part, Kingdra shouldn't be used outside of rain since its Special Attack and Speed are nothing to write home about. However, Choice Specs-boosted Draco Meteor is still pretty strong and can still be used to wallbreak without rain. Should Draco Meteor be used in rain, be wary that using it forces Kingdra to switch out and waste rain turns due to the Special Attack drop.

Team Options
========

Since Kingdra absolutely requires rain support, rain setters like Pelipper and Politoed are great partners. Pelipper is notable for being able to check Grass-types like Mega Venusaur. Both of these Pokemon can also bring Kingdra safely into play safely through U-turn and Eject Button, respectively. Wallbreakers like Tail Glow Manaphy, Azumarill, Supersonic Skystrike Gyarados, and Keldeo can take care of checks to Kingdra, like Chansey, letting Kingdra clean up easily. Greninja's access to Protean and a fantastic movepool lets it customise customize its moveset to beat checks to Kingdra. For example, Greninja can take care of Mega Venusaur with Extrasensory and Mantine with Hidden Power Electric. Cleaners like Mega Sharpedo, Mega Swampert, and Kabutops appreciate Kingdra's wallbreaking abilities. Swampert and Seismitoad provide Electric immunities that and can also set Stealth Rock, which makes wallbreaking easier. Toxapex can wear down the opposing team with Toxic Spikes while also acting as a reliable pivot into priority moves for Kingdra. Lanturn's ability Volt Absorb lets it act as a fantastic check to Alolan Raichu. Lanturn can also cure any status condition with Heal Bell and bring Kingdra in safely through Volt Switch.

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

Water
--------

Kingdra doesn't have any viable options outside of the main set.

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

Water
--------
**Chansey**: Chansey completely walls Kingdra and can KO it with Seismic Toss or cripple it with status.

**Walls**: Specially defensive Pokemon like Cradily, Ferrothorn, and Assault Vest Araquanid can switch into Kingdra and whittle it down or take it out with Toxic, Leech Seed, and Mirror Coat, respectively. Mega Venusaur is notable for being able to switch into Hydro Pump and Ice Beam, thanks to Thick Fat, and beat Kingdra one-on-one. It can't switch into Draco Meteor or Hydro Pump in rain after Stealth Rock damage, however.

**Defensive Water-types**: Most defensive Water-types, such as Toxapex and Mantine, resist Hydro Pump and can comfortably switch into Draco Meteor. Certain Water-types that are immune to or resist Dragon, like Tapu Fini and Empoleon, are great switch-ins as well.

**Residual Damage**: Since Kingdra needs to come into play often, letting it accumulate too much chip damage can let it be lead to it being (avoiding multiple uses of "let" so close to each other) picked off through priority moves.

**Trace**: Trace users like Mega Alakazam and Gardevoir can copy Swift Swim, outspeed Kingdra, and KO it easily.

**Paralysis**: Paralysis halves Kingdra's Speed, which means it can no longer sweep.

**Alolan Raichu**: Under Electric Terrain, Alolan Raichu can easily outspeed and KO Kingdra with a boosted Thunderbolt.
 
Last edited:

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 2/2
[OVERVIEW]

Water
========

Kingdra's access to Swift Swim and a strong STAB move in Hydro Pump makes it one of the best wallbreakers and sweepers under rain, heavily denting most Pokemon in combination with its STAB Draco Meteor. Although this STAB combination is resisted by many Pokemon, Kingdra's access to Ice Beam helps out in letting it hit threats like Tapu Bulu and Cradily. Kingdra has pretty decent bulk and a neutrality to Electric- and Grass-type attacks, which helps given the fact that it needs to continuously switch in throughout a match. While Kingdra can outspeed the entire unboosted metagame in rain, its Speed is underwhelming outside of it. Additionally, without rain boosting its Water-type STAB moves, Kingdra's Special Attack is unimpressive. Therefore, it requires specific team support that limits Kingdra to rain teams.

[SET]
name: Rain Sweeper (Water)
move 1: Hydro Pump
move 2: Draco Meteor
move 3: Ice Beam
move 4: Surf / Scald
item: Choice Specs
ability: Swift Swim
nature: Modest
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe

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

Hydro Pump is an insanely strong STAB move under rain that lets Kingdra 2HKO most Pokemon, including those that resist it, such as Rotom-W, Latios, and Slowbro. Draco Meteor lets Kingdra muscle past Pokemon that don't take much from Hydro Pump, such as Mega Venusaur and Lanturn. Ice Beam gives Kingdra a reliable tool against Dragon teams, notably hitting Mega Altaria, while also letting it hit certain Grass-type threats, like Tapu Bulu and Cradily, hard. While Hydro Pump is used to wallbreak, Surf lets Kingdra clean up weakened teams reliably thanks to its higher accuracy and PP. Alternatively, Scald can be used to try to cripple common switch-ins, like Ferrothorn, at the cost of a little power.

Set Details
========

Maximum investment is made in Speed, (AC) which, alongside Swift Swim, lets Kingdra outspeed the entire unboosted metagame under rain. 252 EVs are put into Special Attack with a Modest nature to let Kingdra hit as hard as possible. Choice Specs patches up Kingdra's average Special Attack and lets it wallbreak more easily under rain. 4 EVs are placed in Special Defense to prevent Download users, like Porygon2 and Porygon-Z, from getting a Special Attack boost.

Usage Tips
========

Kingdra should primarily be used in rain. Bring it in as often as possible early-game to wallbreak with a strong rain- (AH) and Choice Specs-boosted Hydro Pump. Under rain, Hydro Pump is strong enough to 2HKO even targets that resist it and normally don't take much damage, like Mega Venusaur after Stealth Rock damage. Therefore, try to keep the rain turns in mind to make the most use out of them. Kingdra can often be used to take out its own checks early-game and clean up with Surf or Scald later on. That being said, don't let it take too much chip damage from status or entry hazards, since it needs to switch in regularly. Therefore, try to bring it into play through Pelipper's slow U-turn or Politoed's Eject Button. Definitely keep Kingdra away from paralysis, as it prevents it from doing either of its jobs: sweeping and wallbreaking. While a paralyzed Kingdra can outspeed certain slower walls in the rain, it can't wallbreak efficiently between Hydro Pump's shaky accuracy and a the chance to be fully paralyzed. For the most part, Kingdra shouldn't be used outside of rain, (AC) since its Special Attack and Speed are nothing to write home about. However, Choice Specs-boosted Draco Meteor is still pretty strong and can still be used to wallbreak without rain. Should Draco Meteor be used in rain, be wary that using it forces Kingdra to switch out and waste rain turns due to the Special Attack drop.

Team Options
========

Since Kingdra absolutely requires rain support, rain setters like Pelipper and Politoed are great partners. Pelipper is notable for being able to check Grass-types like Mega Venusaur. Both of these Pokemon can also bring Kingdra into play safely through U-turn and Eject Button, respectively. Wallbreakers like Tail Glow Manaphy, Azumarill, Supersonic Skystrike Gyarados, and Keldeo can take care of checks to Kingdra, like Chansey, letting Kingdra clean up easily. Greninja's access to Protean and a fantastic movepool lets it customize its moveset to beat checks to Kingdra. For example, Greninja can take care of Mega Venusaur with Extrasensory and Mantine with Hidden Power Electric. Cleaners like Mega Sharpedo, Mega Swampert, and Kabutops appreciate Kingdra's wallbreaking abilities. Swampert and Seismitoad provide Electric immunities and can also set Stealth Rock, which makes wallbreaking easier. Toxapex can wear down the opposing team with Toxic Spikes while also acting as a reliable pivot into priority moves for Kingdra. Lanturn's ability Volt Absorb lets it act as a fantastic check to Alolan Raichu. Lanturn can also cure any status condition with Heal Bell and bring Kingdra in safely through Volt Switch.

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

Water
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Kingdra doesn't have any viable options outside of the main set.

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

Water
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**Chansey**: Chansey completely walls Kingdra and can KO it with Seismic Toss or cripple it with status.

**Walls**: Specially defensive Pokemon like Cradily, Ferrothorn, and Assault Vest Araquanid can switch into Kingdra and whittle it down or take it out with Toxic, Leech Seed, and Mirror Coat, respectively. Mega Venusaur is notable for being able to switch into Hydro Pump and Ice Beam, thanks to Thick Fat, and beat Kingdra one-on-one. It can't switch into Draco Meteor or Hydro Pump in rain after Stealth Rock damage, however.

**Defensive Water-types**: Most defensive Water-types, such as Toxapex and Mantine, resist Hydro Pump and can comfortably switch into Draco Meteor. Certain Water-types that are immune to or resist Dragon, like Tapu Fini and Empoleon, are great switch-ins as well.

**Residual Damage**: Since Kingdra needs to come into play often, letting it accumulate too much chip damage can lead to it being picked off through priority moves.

**Trace**: Trace users like Mega Alakazam and Gardevoir can copy Swift Swim, outspeed Kingdra, and KO it easily.

**Paralysis**: Paralysis halves Kingdra's Speed, which means it can no longer sweep.

**Alolan Raichu**: Under Electric Terrain, Alolan Raichu can easily outspeed Kingdra and KO Kingdra it with a boosted Thunderbolt.
 
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