Monotype Shuckle (Bug)

roman

Banned deucer.

qc: torkool / misaka mikoto / eien
gp: cake / lotiasite


[OVERVIEW]

Bug
========

Shuckle's niche in Monotype is carved by its solid bulk and ability to get up at least one entry hazard in almost every game due to Mental Herb and Sturdy. Its typing gives it another niche, as a neutrality to Fire- and Flying-type attacks is extremely relevant for Bug-type teams. Shuckle also has access to solid utility options such as Knock Off and Encore that help improve its viability outside of hazard setting. However, Shuckle is vulnerable to sleep inducers such as Breloom and has no chance of beating prevalent Magic Bounce users like as Mega Diancie and Mega Sableye. Shuckle struggles to get more than one hazard up against hazard removers such as Skarmory and Crobat, as it has no attacking presence, relies on Toxic to pressure them, and can’t hope to PP stall them due to its lack of reliable recovery. Part of Shuckle's niche as a hazard setter, Sticky Web, is almost always useless against bulkier or stall teams, as these types of teams rely on slow, bulky Pokemon such as Toxapex and Chansey that don't care about lowered Speed. Shuckle's lack of reliable recovery compromises its ability to be a useful switch-in to Fire- and Flying-type attacks. Shuckle has big competition in the forms of Galvantula and Armaldo as a hazard setter because unlike Shuckle, they can offensively pressure hazard removers. Armaldo can also use Rapid Spin to clear threatening hazards such as Stealth Rock and Toxic Spikes for the rest of the team.

[SET]
name: Entry Hazard Setter
move 1: Sticky Web
move 2: Stealth Rock
move 3: Encore
move 4: Toxic / Knock Off
item: Mental Herb
ability: Sturdy
nature: Impish
evs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD

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

Sticky Web allows Shuckle to support teammates such as Mega Pinsir and Scizor by slowing down grounded foes. For example, with Sticky Web up, Mega Pinsir can outpace Choice Scarf Victini and Scizor can outpace Heatran. Stealth Rock chips down foes when they switch in and renders Sturdy and Focus Sash on Pokemon such as Skarmory and Breloom useless. Encore prevents Shuckle from becoming setup bait by threatening setup sweepers such as Mega Charizard X and Suicune. Toxic lets Shuckle cripple entry hazard removers that aren't immune to the status such as Zapdos and Staraptor. Knock Off is a great utility move that can cripple Pokemon that rely on their item against Bug-type teams, such as Air Balloon Heatran and Eviolite Porygon2.

Set Details
========

An EV spread of 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD with an Impish nature allows Shuckle to set up entry hazards on threatening physical attackers such as Victini and Mega Lopunny. 248 HP EVs let Shuckle take minimal damage from Stealth Rock. Mental Herb allows Shuckle to bypass annoying Taunt and Encore users such as Deoxys-S and Mega Lopunny, respectively. Sturdy allows Shuckle to set at least one hazard against foes that could otherwise OHKO it, such as Choice Specs Keldeo.

Usage Tips
========

Lead with Shuckle almost every game, as this set allows it to set entry hazards against almost every Pokemon as well as pressure hazard removers that are susceptible to Toxic. However, play skillfully against common Magic Bounce Pokemon such as Mega Sableye and Mega Diancie, as they are generally good leads against Bug-type teams. You can lead with a Pokemon that can force the Magic Bounce user out before it can Mega Evolve and then double switch into Shuckle, which lets it safely set at least one entry hazard. Use Encore liberally against Pokemon like Tapu Bulu that could potentially be carrying setup moves, as Shuckle's bulk gives it multiple opportunities to set up hazards in most games. Although the most consistent plan with Shuckle is to set hazards and let it faint within a few turns, it can be wise to save Shuckle if given the opportunity, as it can be sacrificed for important momentum later on in a game. Play extremely aggressively around hazard removers such as Mantine by making double switches. For example, if you predict a Defog user like Mantine to switch in, double switch into a Pokemon such as Galvantula to maintain momentum. Be careful when setting Sticky Web if the opponent has a Pokemon with Contrary or Defiant like Serperior or Bisharp. Only set Sticky Web if you have a good way of beating these, as they can get out of control very quickly. Prioritize Sticky Web over Stealth Rock against offensive types such as Fighting and Bug. On the other hand, prioritize Stealth Rock over Sticky Web when playing against bulky teams or against types like Dragon and Flying that are not affected by Sticky Web.

Team Options
========

Mega Pinsir greatly appreciates Shuckle's Sticky Web support because it allows Mega Pinsir to outpace quick offensive threats to Bug such as Choice Scarf Victini. Choice Scarf Heracross and Buzzwole are good partners because they outpace most Pokemon with Sticky Web support. Heracross especially appreciates Sticky Web support, as it allows Heracross to outspeed and more reliably Pursuit trap Choice Scarf Victini. Heracross can also Pursuit trap entry hazard removers such as Latios and Zapdos, allowing teammates to keep up hazards more easily. Volcarona appreciates the support that Shuckle provides; Sticky Web allows +1 Volcarona to outpace Pokemon such as Swift Swim-boosted Kingdra and lets Volcarona set up on special attackers such as Gengar and Tapu Koko more easily, whereas Stealth Rock allows Volcarona to beat Pokemon such as Focus Sash Breloom and Alolan Golem. Scizor Pursuit traps hazard removers such as Latios and can also pressure other hazard removers such as Armaldo. Scizor can also give Shuckle a free opportunity to switch in with its slow U-turn. Armaldo and Forretress provide hazard removal support for Shuckle, which allows Shuckle to come in multiple times in a match to set entry hazards without having to worry about being chipped down by hazards such as Toxic Spikes and Stealth Rock. Armaldo can also pressure Flying-type hazard removers like Mantine with Stone Edge, while Forretress can provide a secondary switch-in to Flying-type attacks and generate momentum with Volt Switch. Araquanid beats one of Shuckle's biggest problems, Mega Sableye, and it also pressures hazard removers like Latios and Rotom-H.

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

Bug
--------

Opting for a more specially defensive spread allows Shuckle to set up entry hazards on strong special attackers. Infestation increases Shuckle’s potential to set up hazards, as it lets Shuckle trap and reliably set hazards against Pokemon like Clefable. Lum Berry trades Shuckle’s ability to set up hazards against Taunt users like Deoxys-S for the ability to set up against sleep inducers like Breloom.

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

Bug
--------

**Magic Bounce Users**: Magic Bounce users, notably Mega Diancie and Mega Sableye, easily switch into any of Shuckle’s moves and render it useless.

**Entry Hazard Removers**: Hazard removers such as Skarmory and Excadrill prevent Shuckle from completing its role as a suicide lead, as they have no problem clearing hazards against Shuckle. However, they are susceptible to Encore, which turns them into setup bait.

**Sleep**: Sleep inducers such as Breloom and Mega Venusaur prevent Shuckle from setting hazards and can set up.
 
Last edited:
AMcheck, implement what u agree with:


qc: x / x / x
gp: x / x

[OVERVIEW]

Bug
========

* Shuckle's niche in Monotype is carved by its solid bulk and ability to get up at least one hazard in almost every game due to Mental Herb + Sturdy.
* Definitely mention its Fire and Flying neutralities and how they're important for Bug teams
* I'd mention its solid utility options like Encore and Knock Off

* However, Shuckle is prone to sleep inducers such as Breloom and loses to prevalent Magic Bounce users such as Mega Diancie and Mega Sableye.
* Shuckle also has almost no counterplay to hazard removers such as Skarmory and Mega Scizor, as it has no attacking presence and relies on Toxic to cripple any removers. The first part isn't entirely true since it can use Encore to lock these hazard removers and force them to switch out, providing Shuckle an opportunity to get up its entry hazards again. Also, Mega Scizor doesn't run Defog very often, so I'd use a different example such as Crobat, since that's also immune to Toxic
* Part of Shuckle's niche, Sticky Web, is almost always useless against bulkier or stall teams.
* Definitely mention how its lack of recovery and weakness to Stealth Rock making it incredibly easy to wear down
* Mention how it may face competition as a Stealth Rock setter from Armaldo, as well as a Sticky Web setter from Galvantula and Araquanid


[SET]
name: hazard setter
move 1: Sticky Web
move 2: Stealth Rock
move 3: Encore
move 4: Toxic / Knock Off
item: Mental Herb
ability: Sturdy
nature: Bold / Impish
evs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD

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

* Sticky Web allows Shuckle to support teammates such as Mega Pinsir and Scizor with much needed speed control.
* Stealth Rock, Shuckle's second most important move, chips down foes while also breaking Sturdy on Pokemon such as Skarmory and can break Focus Sash that Pokemon such as Breloom potentially carry.
* Encore allows Shuckle to threaten scary set up sweepers such as Gyarados and Mega Scizor Mega Charizard X is a better example here, since it's a far larger threat to Bug teams.
* Toxic lets Shuckle cripple hazard removers that aren't immune to the status such as Zapdos and Staraptor. However, Knock Off is a great utility move that can cripple Pokemon that rely on their item, such as Air Balloon Heatran and Choice Scarf Gengar. Separate Toxic and Knock Off into separate bullet points

Set Details
========

* Investment of 248 HP and 252 Def EVs in conjunction with a Bold nature allows Shuckle to set up hazards on threatening physical attackers such as Mamoswine I think a better example could be used here and Mega Lopunny. 248 HP lets Shuckle take minimum damage from Stealth Rock.
* The rest of the EVs are dumped into Special Defense which allows Shuckle to maximize its bulk and potential to set up hazards against opposing attackers.
* Mental Herb allows Shuckle to bypass annoying Taunt users such as Mandibuzz this will more often than not have Mega Sableye as a teammate anyway, so I'd use Deoxys-S as a better example here and Suicide Lead Skarmory once.
* Sturdy allows Shuckle to get up at least one hazard against foes that could OHKO it, such as Choice Specs Keldeo.

Usage Tips
========

* Lead with Shuckle almost every game, as this set allows it to get up hazards against almost every Pokemon as well as pressure hazard removers that are susceptible to Toxic poison. just Toxic is fine here
* However, play skillfully against Magic Bounce Pokemon such as Mega Sableye and Mega Diancie that are generally good leads against Bug-type teams by leading with a Pokemon that can force the Magic Bounce user out before it can Mega Evolve and doubling out to Shuckle, allowing you to get up at least a single hazard.
* Use Encore liberally against Pokemon that could potentially be carrying set up, as Shuckle's bulk allows it to have more breathing room than most other hazard setters and lets it have multiple opportunities to set up hazards in most games.
* Although the most consistent plan with Shuckle is to let it set hazards and faint within a few turns, it can be wise to save it, given the opportunity, as it can be sacked for important momentum later on in a game.
* Play extremely aggressively around hazard removal by making aggressive double switches to pressure opposing hazard removers such as Mantine. An example of a possible double switch would be pretty helpful for a newer player
* Be careful when setting Sticky Web if the opponent has Contrary or Defiant Pokemon, mainly Bisharp and Serperior, respectively. Only set Sticky Web if you have a good way of beating these as they can get out of control very quickly.

Team Options
========

* Mega Pinsir greatly appreciates Shuckle's Sticky Web support because it allows Mega Pinsir to outpace quick offensive threats to Bug such as Choice Scarf Victini.
* Araquanid beats one of Shuckle's biggest problems, Mega Sableye, while also being able to pressure hazard removers such as Latios and Rotom-H.
* Armaldo can allow hazard removal support for Shuckle which allows it to come in multiple times a game to stack hazards without having to worry about being chipped down by annoying hazards such as Toxic Spikes and Stealth Rock. It can also pressure Flying-type hazard removers with its STAB Stone Edge. I think Forretress would be a better Pokemon to mention here, since its typing synergizes better with Shuckle, and it can Volt Switch pivot to generate momentum for Shuckle. Not needing to run Stealth Rock can also give it a free moveslot to run Toxic Spikes or Gyro Ball.
* Scizor traps hazard setters such as Latios while also being able to pressure other removers such as Armaldo. It can also give Shuckle free switch ins with slow U-Turns.
* Volcarona appreciates the hazard stack support that Shuckle provides. Sticky Web allows Volcarona to outpace Pokemon such as Kingdra under rain provided that it has already boosted at least once and Stealth Rock allows Volcarona to beat Pokemon such as Focus Sash Breloom and Golem-A.
* Heracross
* Buzzwole



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

Bug
--------

* Opting for a more specially defensive spread allows Shuckle to set up hazards on strong special attackers.
* A Lum Berry allows Shuckle to set up hazards against sleep inducers such as Breloom, but loses to Taunt users such as Mandibuzz.
* Leftovers

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

Bug
--------

**Magic Bounce Users**: Magic Bounce users, notably Mega Diancie and Mega Sableye, have no problem switching in on any of Shuckle's moves and 1v1ing it easily.

**Hazard Removers**: Hazard removers such as Skarmory and Excadrill prevent Shuckle from completing it's role as a suicide lead as they have no problem clearing hazards against Shuckle.

**Sleep Users**: Sleep inducers such as Breloom and Mega Venusaur prevent Shuckle from setting hazards and can set up or use the free turns for better positioning.

**Wallbreakers**

**Stallbreakers**

**Residual damage**
 
Last edited:

Moosical

big yikes
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qc: x / x / x
gp: x / x

[OVERVIEW]

Bug
========

* Shuckle's niche in Monotype is carved by its solid bulk and ability to get up at least one hazard in almost every game due to Mental Herb + Sturdy.
* Definitely mention its Fire and Flying neutralities and how they're important for Bug teams Agree
* I'd mention its solid utility options like Encore and Knock Off Agree

* However, Shuckle is prone to sleep inducers such as Breloom and loses to prevalent Magic Bounce users such as Mega Diancie and Mega Sableye.
* Shuckle also has almost no counterplay to hazard removers such as Skarmory and Mega Scizor, as it has no attacking presence and relies on Toxic to cripple any removers. The first part isn't entirely true since it can use Encore to lock these hazard removers and force them to switch out, providing Shuckle an opportunity to get up its entry hazards again. Also, Mega Scizor doesn't run Defog very often, so I'd use a different example such as Crobat, since that's also immune to Toxic Agree
* Part of Shuckle's niche, Sticky Web, is almost always useless against bulkier or stall teams.
* Definitely mention how its lack of reliable recovery and weakness to Stealth Rock making it incredibly easy to wear down Agree
* Mention how it may face competition as a Stealth Rock setter from Armaldo, as well as a Sticky Web setter from Galvantula and Araquanid Agree


[SET]
name: hazard setter
move 1: Sticky Web
move 2: Stealth Rock
move 3: Encore
move 4: Toxic / Knock Off
item: Mental Herb
ability: Sturdy
nature: Bold / Impish Make Impish the only nature here. The Shuckle set you provided isn't running a Special Attack, so there's no reason to run Bold over it.
evs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD

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

* Sticky Web allows Shuckle to support teammates such as Mega Pinsir and Scizor with much needed speed control.
* Stealth Rock, Shuckle's second most important move, chips down foes while also breaking Sturdy on Pokemon such as Skarmory and can break Focus Sash that Pokemon such as Breloom potentially carry.
* Encore allows Shuckle to prevent it from becoming setup bait by threatening scary set up sweepers such as Gyarados and Mega Scizor Mega Charizard X is a better example here, since it's a far larger threat to Bug teams. Agree, but I would change it to 1 example of scary set up sweepers, and add 1 example of a defensive setup Pokemon (Suicune)
* Toxic lets Shuckle cripple hazard removers that aren't immune to the status such as Zapdos and Staraptor. However, Knock Off is a great utility move that can cripple Pokemon that rely on their item, such as Air Balloon Heatran and Choice Scarf Gengar. Separate Toxic and Knock Off into separate bullet points Agree; I would change Scarf Gengar to Eviolite P2 and Chansey.

Set Details
========

* Investment of 248 HP and 252 Def EVs in conjunction with a BoldImpish nature allows Shuckle to set up hazards on threatening physical attackers such as Mamoswine I think a better example could be used here and Mega Lopunny. 248 HP lets Shuckle take minimumminimal damage from Stealth Rock. Agree with changing the Mamoswine example.
* The rest of the EVs are dumped into Special Defense which allows Shuckle to maximize its bulk and potential to set up hazards against opposing attackers.
* Mental Herb allows Shuckle to bypass annoying Taunt users such as Mandibuzz this will more often than not have Mega Sableye as a teammate anyway, so I'd use Deoxys-S as a better example here and Suicide Lead Skarmory once. Agree with changing Mandibuzz to Deoxys-S; I would also change the Skarmory example as that's not the most prevalent in the current metagame. Also, add in how it prevents Shuckle from being Encored once as well.
* Sturdy allows Shuckle to get up at least one hazard against foes that could OHKO it, such as Choice Specs Keldeo.

Usage Tips
========

* Lead with Shuckle almost every game, as this set allows it to get up hazards against almost every Pokemon as well as pressure hazard removers that are susceptible to Toxic poison. just Toxic is fine here Agree
* However, play skillfully against Magic Bounce Pokemon such as Mega Sableye and Mega Diancie that are generally good leads against Bug-type teams by leading with a Pokemon that can force the Magic Bounce user out before it can Mega Evolve and doubling out to Shuckle, allowing you to get up at least a single hazard.
* Use Encore liberally against Pokemon that could potentially be carrying set up, as Shuckle's bulk allows it to have more breathing room than most other hazard setters and lets it have multiple opportunities to set up hazards in most games.
* Although the most consistent plan with Shuckle is to let it set hazards and faint within a few turns, it can be wise to save it, given the opportunity, as it can be sacked for important momentum later on in a game.
* Play extremely aggressively around hazard removal by making aggressive double switches to pressure opposing hazard removers such as Mantine. An example of a possible double switch would be pretty helpful for a newer player Agree, this is a very vague statement that can be applied to basically every single Pokemon ("make double switches").
* Be careful when setting Sticky Web if the opponent has Contrary or Defiant Pokemon, mainly Bisharp and Serperior, respectively. Only set Sticky Web if you have a good way of beating these as they can get out of control very quickly.
*Talk about when to prioritize Sticky Web vs Stealth Rock.

Team Options
========

* Mega Pinsir greatly appreciates Shuckle's Sticky Web support because it allows Mega Pinsir to outpace quick offensive threats to Bug such as Choice Scarf Victini.
* Araquanid beats one of Shuckle's biggest problems, Mega Sableye, while also being able to pressure hazard removers such as Latios and Rotom-H.
* Armaldo can allow hazard removal support for Shuckle which allows it to come in multiple times a game to stack hazards without having to worry about being chipped down by annoying hazards such as Toxic Spikes and Stealth Rock. It can also pressure Flying-type hazard removers with its STAB Stone Edge. I think Forretress would be a better Pokemon to mention here, since its typing synergizes better with Shuckle, and it can Volt Switch pivot to generate momentum for Shuckle. Not needing to run Stealth Rock can also give it a free moveslot to run Toxic Spikes or Gyro Ball. Disagree with replacing Armaldo (assuming that's what Smub meant). Agree with adding Forretress (keep Armaldo).
* Scizor traps hazard setters such as Latios while also being able to pressure other removers such as Armaldo. It can also give Shuckle free switch ins with slow U-Turns.
* Volcarona appreciates the hazard stack support that Shuckle provides. Sticky Web allows Volcarona to outpace Pokemon such as Kingdra under rain provided that it has already boosted at least once and Stealth Rock allows Volcarona to beat Pokemon such as Focus Sash Breloom and Golem-A. Mention being able to Quiver Dance more freely against now-slower special attackers.
* Heracross
* Buzzwole

*Agree with adding Heracross and Buzzwole. Could also add Mega Heracross, but I'll leave that up to you. I would reorder these to be: Mega Pinsir > Mega Heracross (if you include) > Heracross and Buzzwole (same bullet) > Volcarona > Scizor > Armaldo and Forretress (same bullet) > Araquanid

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

Bug
--------

* Opting for a more specially defensive spread allows Shuckle to set up hazards on strong special attackers.
* A Lum Berry allows Shuckle to set up hazards against sleep inducers such as Breloom, but loses to Taunt users such as Mandibuzz.
* Leftovers Disagree

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

Bug
--------

**Magic Bounce Users**: Magic Bounce users, notably Mega Diancie and Mega Sableye, have no problem switching in on any of Shuckle's moves and 1v1ing it easily.

**Hazard Removers**: Hazard removers such as Skarmory and Excadrill prevent Shuckle from completing it's role as a suicide lead as they have no problem clearing hazards against Shuckle.

**Sleep Users**: Sleep inducers such as Breloom and Mega Venusaur prevent Shuckle from setting hazards and can set up or use the free turns for better positioning.

**Wallbreakers**

**Stallbreakers**

**Residual damage**
QC 1/3. Worked off of the post by smub since it included a lot of things I would've mentioned as well. My QC is the colored text, on top of his plain bolded text. Good job.
 
Last edited:
hello in advance there will be no progress on this until at least next wednesday as i am out of town and very busy sorry someone can take over this if i can't get to this
No worries. It's New Years weekend, so that's completely understandable.
 
Team Options:
- Definitely mention Heracross outspeeds Choice Scarf Victini with Sticky Web support.
- Pursuit from Heracross and Scizor targeting Defoggers is a good thing to mention.

Other Options:
- Add Infestation

Checks and Counters:
- You should note that Defoggers and spinners can get Encored and set up on.

Looks good QC 3/3
 
amcheck, no need to implement

[OVERVIEW]

Bug
========

Shuckle's niche in Monotype derives from is carved by (too clichéd imo) its solid bulk and ability to get up at least one entry hazard in almost every game due to Mental Herb + and Sturdy. It also carries a useful typing for Bug-type teams,(AC) as it is neutral to Fire- and Flying-type attacks,(AC) and has access to solid utility options such as Knock Off and Encore. However, Shuckle is prone to sleep inducers such as Breloom and loses to prevalent Magic Bounce users such as Mega Diancie and Mega Sableye. Shuckle It struggles to get more than once one hazard up against hazard removers such as Skarmory and Crobat, as it has no attacking offensive presence and relies on Toxic to pressure any removers them. Part of Shuckle's niche, Sticky Web, is almost always useless against bulkier or stall teams. Lack of reliable recovery compromises limits its ability to be a useful switch-(AH)in for Fire- and Flying-type attacks. Shuckle has big competition in the forms of Galvantula and Armaldo as a hazard setter,(AC) as the latter two both have solid offensive presences, allowing them to more easily pressure hazard removal removers. Armaldo can also spin away threatening hazards such as Stealth Rock and Toxic Spikes for the rest of the team.

[SET]
name: Hazard Setter
move 1: Sticky Web
move 2: Stealth Rock
move 3: Encore
move 4: Toxic / Knock Off
item: Mental Herb
ability: Sturdy
nature: Impish
evs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD

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

Sticky Web allows Shuckle to support teammates such as Mega Pinsir and Scizor with much-(AH)needed speed control. Stealth Rock, Shuckle's second most important move, chips down foes,(AC) while also breaking breaks Sturdy on Pokemon such as Skarmory,(AC) and can break Focus Sashes that Pokemon such as Breloom potentially carry. Encore allows Shuckle prevents it Shuckle from becoming setup bait by threatening scary set up setup sweepers such as Mega Charizard X and Suicune. Toxic lets Shuckle cripple entry hazard removers that aren't immune to the status it such as Zapdos and Staraptor. Knock Off is a great utility move that can cripple Pokemon that rely on their item, such as Air Balloon Heatran and Eviolite Porygon2.

Set Details
========

Investment of 248 HP and 252 Def EVs in conjunction with an Impish nature allows Shuckle to set up entry hazards on threatening physical attackers such as Victini and Mega Lopunny. 248 HP EVs lets Shuckle take minimal damage from Stealth Rock. The rest of the EVs are dumped into Special Defense which allows Shuckle to maximize improve its bulk and potential to set up hazards against opposing attackers. Mental Herb allows Shuckle to bypass annoying Taunt and Encore users such as Deoxys-S and Mega Lopunny, respectively. Sturdy allows Shuckle to get up at least one hazard against foes that could would OHKO it, such as Choice Specs Keldeo.

Usage Tips
========

Lead with Shuckle almost every game, as this set allows it to get up entry hazards against almost every Pokemon as well as pressure hazard removers that are susceptible to Toxic. However, play skillfully against Magic Bounce Pokemon such as Mega Sableye and Mega Diancie that are generally good leads against Bug-type teams by leading with a Pokemon that can force the Magic Bounce user out before it can Mega Evolve and doubling immediately switching out to Shuckle on the predicted switch, allowing you to get up at least a single hazard. Use Encore liberally against Pokemon that could potentially be carrying set up setup moves, as Shuckle's bulk allows it to have more breathing room than most other hazard setters and lets it have multiple opportunities to set up hazards in most games. Although the most consistent plan with Shuckle is to let it set hazards and faint within a few turns, it can be wise to save it, given the opportunity, as it can be sacked sacrificed for important momentum later on in a game. Play extremely aggressively around hazard removal by making aggressive double switches to pressure opposing hazard removers such as Mantine. For example, double switch in a Pokemon such as Galvantula into on a predicted switch to Mantine switch-in to keep up the momentum and chip their team with Stealth Rock. Be careful when setting Sticky Web if the opponent has a Contrary or Defiant Pokemon, mainly like Bisharp and or Serperior, respectively. Only set Sticky Web if you have a good way of beating these,(AC) as they can get out of control very quickly. Prioritize Sticky Web over Stealth Rock against offensive types such as Fighting and opposing Bug teams. Against bulky teams or types not affected by Sticky Webs as much (Dragon, Flying), prioritize Stealth Rock first.

Team Options
========

Mega Pinsir greatly appreciates Shuckle's Sticky Web support because it allows Mega Pinsir to outpace quick offensive threats to Bug teams such as Choice Scarf Victini. Heracross or and Buzzwole both provide helpful speed control, outpacing almost the entire metagame with Sticky Web + and a Choice Scarf. Heracross appreciates this especially,(AC) as it can outpace Choice Scarf Victini,(AC) which allows it to more readily threaten Victini with Pursuit. Heracross can also Pursuit-trap Pursuit trap entry hazard removers such as Latios and Zapdos as well, allowing teammates to keep up hazards more easily. Volcarona appreciates the hazard stack support that Shuckle provides. Sticky Web allows Volcarona to outpace Pokemon such as Kingdra under rain provided that it has already boosted at least once,(AC) and Stealth Rock allows Volcarona to beat Pokemon such as Focus Sash Breloom and Golem-A Alolan Golem. Volcarona can also set up on now slower special attackers that become slower thanks to Sticky Web such as Gengar and Tapu Koko more easily thanks to Sticky Web. Scizor traps hazard setters such as Latios while also being able to pressure other removers such as Armaldo. It can also give Shuckle free switch ins switches with slow U-turns. Armaldo and Forretress can allow hazard removal support for Shuckle,(AC) which allows it to come in multiple times a game to stack hazards without having to worry about being chipped down by annoying hazards such as Toxic Spikes and Stealth Rock. Armaldo can also pressure Flying-type hazard removers with its STAB Stone Edge,(AC) while Forretress can provide a secondary switch-in to Flying-type attacks,(AC) and pressure teams with other hazards such as Spikes and Toxic Spikes,(AC) and generate momentum with Volt Switch. Araquanid beats one of Shuckle's biggest problems, Mega Sableye, while also being able to pressure hazard removers such as Latios and Rotom-H.

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

Bug
--------

Opting for a more specially defensive spread allows Shuckle to set up entry hazards on strong special attackers. Infestation allows Shuckle it to more reliably set up hazards. A Lum Berry allows Shuckle to set up hazards against sleep inducers such as Breloom,(RC) but means Shuckle loses to Taunt users such as Mandibuzz and Deoxys-S.

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

Bug
--------

**Magic Bounce Users**: Magic Bounce users, notably Mega Diancie and Mega Sableye, have no problem switching in on any of Shuckle's moves and 1v1ing beating it easily.

**Entry Hazard Removers**: Hazard removers such as Skarmory and Excadrill prevent Shuckle from completing it's its role as a suicide lead,(AC) as they have no problem clearing hazards against Shuckle it. However, they can be Encored and used for set up as setup bait through Encore.

**Sleep Users**: Sleep inducers such as Breloom and Mega Venusaur prevent Shuckle from setting entry hazards and can set up or use the free turns for better positioning.
 

A Cake Wearing A Hat

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[OVERVIEW]

Bug
========

Shuckle's niche in Monotype is carved by its solid bulk and ability to get up at least one entry hazard in almost every game due to Mental Herb + and Sturdy. Its typing gives it another niche, as a neutrality to Fire- and Flying-type attacks is extremely relevant for Bug-type teams. Shuckle also has access to solid utility options such as Knock Off and Encore that help improve its viability outside of hazard setting. However, Shuckle is prone vulnerable to sleep inducers such as Breloom and has no chance of beating prevalent Magic Bounce users like as Mega Diancie and Mega Sableye. Shuckle struggles to get more than one hazard up against hazard removers such as Skarmory and Crobat, as it has no attacking presence, relies on Toxic to pressure any removers them, and can’t hope to PP stall such removers as it lacks them due to its lack of reliable recovery. Part of Shuckle's niche as a hazard setter, Sticky Web, is almost always useless against bulkier or stall teams, (AC) as these types of teams rely on slow, bulky Pokemon such as Toxapex and Chansey that don't care about lowered Speed. Lack Shuckle's lack of reliable recovery compromises its ability to be a useful switch-in for Fire- and Flying-type attacks. Shuckle has big competition in the forms of Galvantula and Armaldo as a hazard setter as the latter two have solid offensive presence, allowing them to more easily pressure hazard removal because unlike Shuckle, they can offensively pressure hazard removers. Armaldo can also spin away use Rapid Spin to clear threatening hazards such as Stealth Rock and Toxic Spikes for the rest of the team.

[SET]
name: Entry Hazard Setter
move 1: Sticky Web
move 2: Stealth Rock
move 3: Encore
move 4: Toxic / Knock Off
item: Mental Herb
ability: Sturdy
nature: Impish
evs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD

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

Sticky Web allows Shuckle to support teammates such as Mega Pinsir and Scizor that appreciate the speed control by slowing down grounded foes. For example, with Sticky Web up, Mega Pinsir can outpace Choice Scarf Victini and Scizor can outpace Heatran. Stealth Rock, (RC) Shuckle's second most important move, (RC) chips down foes while also breaking when they switch in and renders Sturdy and Focus Sash on Pokemon such as Skarmory and can break Focus Sash that Pokemon such as Breloom can potentially carry Breloom useless. Encore prevents Shuckle from becoming setup bait by threatening scary set up setup sweepers such as Mega Charizard X and Suicune. Toxic lets Shuckle cripple entry hazard removers that aren't immune to the status such as Zapdos and Staraptor. Knock Off is a great utility move that can cripple Pokemon that rely on their item against Bug-type teams, such as Air Balloon Heatran and Eviolite Porygon2.

Set Details
========

Investment of 248 HP and 252 Def EVs in conjunction A spread of 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD with an Impish nature allows Shuckle to set up entry hazards on threatening physical attackers such as Victini and Mega Lopunny. 248 HP permits EVs let Shuckle to take minimal damage from Stealth Rock. The rest of the EVs are dumped into Special Defense which allows Shuckle to further improve its bulk and potential to set up hazards against opposing attackers. (I consolidated that into the main spread sentence and also 8 evs aint doin jack) Mental Herb permits allows Shuckle to bypass annoying Taunt and Encore users such as Deoxys-S and Mega Lopunny, respectively. Sturdy allows Shuckle to get up set at least one hazard against foes that could otherwise OHKO it, such as Choice Specs Keldeo.

Usage Tips
========

Lead with Shuckle almost every game, as this set allows it to get up set entry hazards against almost every Pokemon as well as pressure hazard removers that are susceptible to Toxic. However, play skillfully against common Magic Bounce Pokemon such as Mega Sableye and Mega Diancie that, as they are generally good leads against Bug-type teams. (AP) by leading with a Pokemon that can force the Magic Bounce user out before it can Mega Evolve and doubling out to Shuckle, allowing you to get up at least one hazard You can lead with a Pokemon that can force the Magic Bounce user out before it can Mega Evolve and then double switch into Shuckle, which lets it safely set at least one entry hazard. Use Encore liberally against Pokemon like Tapu Bulu that could potentially be carrying set up setup moves, as Shuckle's bulk allows it to have more breathing room than other hazard setters and lets it have gives it multiple opportunities to set up hazards in most games. Although the most consistent plan with Shuckle is to set hazards and let it faint within a few turns, it can be wise to save Shuckle, (RC) if given the opportunity, as it can be sacked sacrificed for important momentum later on in a game. Play extremely aggressively around hazard removal by making aggressive double switches to pressure opposing hazard removers such as Mantine by making double switches. For example, if you predict a Defog user like Mantine to switch in, double switch into a Pokemon such as Galvantula to maintain momentum. Be careful when setting Sticky Web if the opponent has Contrary or Defiant Pokemon, mainly Bisharp and Serperior, respectively a Pokemon with Contrary or Defiant like Serperior or Bisharp. Only set Sticky Web if you have a good way of beating these, (AC) as they can get out of control very quickly. Prioritize Sticky Web over Stealth Rock against offensive types such as Fighting and opposing Bug teams. Prioritize Stealth Rock over Sticky Web when playing against bulky teams or against types like Dragon and Flying that are not affected by Sticky Webs Web.

Team Options
========

Mega Pinsir greatly appreciates Shuckle's Sticky Web support because it allows Mega Pinsir to outpace quick offensive threats to Bug such as Choice Scarf Victini. Choice Scarf Heracross or and Buzzwole both provide helpful speed control, outpacing almost the entire metagame with Sticky Web + Choice Scarf are good partners because they outpace most Pokemon with Sticky Web support. Heracross appreciates this especially as it can outpace Choice Scarf Victini which allows Heracross to more readily threaten Victini with Pursuit especially appreciates Sticky Web support, as it allows Heracross to outspeed and more reliably Pursuit trap Choice Scarf Victini. Heracross can also Pursuit-trap Pursuit trap entry hazard removers such as Latios and Zapdos as well, allowing teammates to keep up hazards more easily. Volcarona appreciates the hazard stack support that Shuckle provides; Sticky Web allows +1 Volcarona to outpace Pokemon such as Swift Swim-boosted Kingdra under rain provided that it has already boosted at least once and and lets Volcarona set up on special attackers such as Gengar and Tapu Koko more easily, (AC) whereas Stealth Rock allows Volcarona to beat Pokemon such as Focus Sash Breloom and Alolan Golem. (If golem-A doesn't also hold a focus sash, then swap the order of the two examples. Otherwise, you're fine.) Volcarona can also set up on now slower special attackers such as Gengar and Tapu Koko more easily thanks to Sticky Web. Scizor Pursuit traps hazard setters removers such as Latios while also being able to pressure and can also pressure other hazard removers such as Armaldo. Scizor can also give Shuckle a free switch in with its slow U-turn. Armaldo and Forretress provide hazard removal support for Shuckle, (AC) which allows Shuckle to come in multiple times a game to stack hazards in a match to set entry hazards without having to worry about being chipped down by annoying hazards such as Toxic Spikes and Stealth Rock. Armaldo can also pressure Flying-type hazard removers like Mantine with its STAB Stone Edge, (AC) while Forretress can provide a secondary switch-in to Flying-type attacks and generate momentum with Volt Switch. Araquanid beats one of Shuckle's biggest problems, Mega Sableye, while also being able to pressure and it also pressures hazard removers like Latios and Rotom-H.

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

Bug
--------

Opting for a more specially defensive spread allows Shuckle to set up entry hazards on strong special attackers. Infestation increases Shuckle’s potential to set up hazards, as Infestation lets it target Pokemon like Clefable that Shuckle can set up hazards reliably against it lets Shuckle trap and reliably set hazards against Pokemon like Clefable. Lum Berry trades Shuckle’s ability to set up hazards against Taunt Pokemon users like Deoxys-S for the ability to set up against sleep inducers like Breloom.

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

Bug
--------

**Magic Bounce Users**: Magic Bounce users, notably Mega Diancie and Mega Sableye, easily switch into any of Shuckle’s moves and beat it 1v1 render it useless.

**Entry Hazard Removers**: Hazard removers such as Skarmory and Excadrill prevent Shuckle from completing it's its role as a suicide lead, (AC) as they have no problem clearing hazards against Shuckle. However, they can be Encored and used for set up bait are susceptible to Encore, which turns them into setup bait.

**Sleep Users**: Sleep inducers such as Breloom and Mega Venusaur prevent Shuckle from setting hazards and can set up or use the free turns for better positioning. (specify what "better positioning" means. I have no idea.)

1/2 i'll get a stamp eventually
 
Last edited:

lotiasite

undedgy
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GP 2/2
[OVERVIEW]

Bug
========

Shuckle's niche in Monotype is carved by its solid bulk and ability to get up at least one entry hazard in almost every game due to Mental Herb and Sturdy. Its typing gives it another niche, as a neutrality to Fire- and Flying-type attacks is extremely relevant for Bug-type teams. Shuckle also has access to solid utility options such as Knock Off and Encore that help improve its viability outside of hazard setting. However, Shuckle is vulnerable to sleep inducers such as Breloom and has no chance of beating prevalent Magic Bounce users like as Mega Diancie and Mega Sableye. Shuckle struggles to get more than one hazard up against hazard removers such as Skarmory and Crobat, as it has no attacking presence, relies on Toxic to pressure them, and can’t hope to PP stall them due to its lack of reliable recovery. Part of Shuckle's niche as a hazard setter, Sticky Web, is almost always useless against bulkier or stall teams, as these types of teams rely on slow, bulky Pokemon such as Toxapex and Chansey that don't care about lowered Speed. Shuckle's lack of reliable recovery compromises its ability to be a useful switch-in forto Fire- and Flying-type attacks. Shuckle has big competition in the forms of Galvantula and Armaldo as a hazard setter because unlike Shuckle, they can offensively pressure hazard removers. Armaldo can also use Rapid Spin to clear threatening hazards such as Stealth Rock and Toxic Spikes for the rest of the team.

[SET]
name: Entry Hazard Setter
move 1: Sticky Web
move 2: Stealth Rock
move 3: Encore
move 4: Toxic / Knock Off
item: Mental Herb
ability: Sturdy
nature: Impish
evs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD

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

Sticky Web allows Shuckle to support teammates such as Mega Pinsir and Scizor by slowing down grounded foes. For example, with Sticky Web up, Mega Pinsir can outpace Choice Scarf Victini and Scizor can outpace Heatran. Stealth Rock chips down foes when they switch in(add space)and renders Sturdy and Focus Sash on Pokemon such as Skarmory and Breloom useless. Encore prevents Shuckle from becoming setup bait by threatening setup sweepers such as Mega Charizard X and Suicune. Toxic lets Shuckle cripple entry hazard removers that aren't immune to the status such as Zapdos and Staraptor. Knock Off is a great utility move that can cripple Pokemon that rely on their item against Bug-type teams, such as Air Balloon Heatran and Eviolite Porygon2.

Set Details
========

An EV spread of 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD with an Impish nature allows Shuckle to set up entry hazards on threatening physical attackers such as Victini and Mega Lopunny. 248 HP EVs let Shuckle take minimal damage from Stealth Rock. Mental Herb allows Shuckle to bypass annoying Taunt and Encore users such as Deoxys-S and Mega Lopunny, respectively. Sturdy allows Shuckle to set at least one hazard against foes that could otherwise OHKO it, such as Choice Specs Keldeo.

Usage Tips
========

Lead with Shuckle almost every game, as this set allows it to set entry hazards against almost every Pokemon as well as pressure hazard removers that are susceptible to Toxic. However, play skillfully against common Magic Bounce Pokemon such as Mega Sableye and Mega Diancie, as they are generally good leads against Bug-type teams. You can lead with a Pokemon that can force the Magic Bounce user out before it can Mega Evolve and then double switch into Shuckle, which lets it safely set at least one entry hazard. Use Encore liberally against Pokemon like Tapu Bulu that could potentially be carrying setup moves, as Shuckle's bulk gives it multiple opportunities to set up hazards in most games. Although the most consistent plan with Shuckle is to set hazards and let it faint within a few turns, it can be wise to save Shuckle if given the opportunity, as it can be sacrificed for important momentum later on in a game. Play extremely aggressively around hazard removers such as Mantine by making double switches. For example, if you predict a Defog user like Mantine to switch in, double switch into a Pokemon such as Galvantula to maintain momentum. Be careful when setting Sticky Web if the opponent has a Pokemon with Contrary or Defiant like Serperior or Bisharp. Only set Sticky Web if you have a good way of beating these, as they can get out of control very quickly. Prioritize Sticky Web over Stealth Rock against offensive types such as Fighting and Bug. POn the other hand, prioritize Stealth Rock over Sticky Web when playing against bulky teams or against types like Dragon and Flying that are not affected by Sticky Web.

Team Options
========

Mega Pinsir greatly appreciates Shuckle's Sticky Web support because it allows Mega Pinsir to outpace quick offensive threats to Bug such as Choice Scarf Victini. Choice Scarf Heracross and Buzzwole are good partners because they outpace most Pokemon with Sticky Web support. Heracross especially appreciates Sticky Web support, as it allows Heracross to outspeed and more reliably Pursuit trap Choice Scarf Victini. Heracross can also Pursuit trap entry hazard removers such as Latios and Zapdos as well, allowing teammates to keep up hazards more easily. Volcarona appreciates the support that Shuckle provides; Sticky Web allows +1 Volcarona to outpace Pokemon such as Swift Swim-boosted Kingdra and lets Volcarona set up on special attackers such as Gengar and Tapu Koko more easily, whereas Stealth Rock allows Volcarona to beat Pokemon such as Focus Sash Breloom and Alolan Golem. Scizor Pursuit traps hazard removers such as Latios and can also pressure other hazard removers such as Armaldo. Scizor can also give Shuckle a free opportunity to switch in with its slow U-turn. Armaldo and Forretress provide hazard removal support for Shuckle, which allows Shuckle to come in multiple times in a match to set entry hazards without having to worry about being chipped down by hazards such as Toxic Spikes and Stealth Rock. Armaldo can also pressure Flying-type hazard removers like Mantine with Stone Edge, while Forretress can provide a secondary switch-in to Flying-type attacks and generate momentum with Volt Switch. Araquanid beats one of Shuckle's biggest problems, Mega Sableye, and it also pressures hazard removers like Latios and Rotom-H.

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

Bug
--------

Opting for a more specially defensive spread allows Shuckle to set up entry hazards on strong special attackers. Infestation increases Shuckle’s potential to set up hazards, as it lets Shuckle trap and reliably set hazards against Pokemon like Clefable. Lum Berry trades Shuckle’s ability to set up hazards against Taunt users like Deoxys-S for the ability to set up against sleep inducers like Breloom.

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

Bug
--------

**Magic Bounce Users**: Magic Bounce users, notably Mega Diancie and Mega Sableye, easily switch into any of Shuckle’s moves and render it useless.

**Entry Hazard Removers**: Hazard removers such as Skarmory and Excadrill prevent Shuckle from completing its role as a suicide lead, as they have no problem clearing hazards against Shuckle. However, they are susceptible to Encore, which turns them into setup bait.

**Sleep**: Sleep inducers such as Breloom and Mega Venusaur prevent Shuckle from setting hazards and can set up.

 

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