QC Checks: [Molk] [EonX] []
Acully is Zereakr
Overview
########
- Amazing offensive stats with 105 / 120 base Attack and Special Attack respectively
- Solid 105 Speed
- Powerful and useful STABs in Knock Off, Sucker Punch and Dark Pulse
- Good Coverage alongside its STABs
- Illusion is wonderful as the mere sight of a Zoroark in team preview forces the opponent to play carefully
- Frail as fuck
- Can't bypass Aromatisse no matter which set
Mixed
########
name: Mixed Attacker
move 1: Sucker Punch
move 2: Knock Off
move 3: Flamethrower
move 4: Grass Knot
ability: Illusion
item: Life Orb
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpA / 252 Spe
nature: Naive / Naughty
Moves
========
Sucker Punch is a strong STAB priority that helps picking off faster, frail opponents like Jolteon, Cinccino and Sceptile. It can also kill weakened Yanmega and Sharpedo, two top common and dangerous threats in the RU metagame. Knock Off is another strong STAB that removes opponent's item, being very useful against Eviolite users and other item-reliant Pokemon. It's also strong on a fresh switch-in. Flamethrower hits Escavalier, Tangrowth and Mega Abomasnow hard, while catching Cobalion and Virizion switch-ins. Lastly, Grass Knot nails Rhyperior while also doing nice damage against Poliwrath, Gastrodon and Alomomola. There are some other options on the last slot if Grass Knot isn't necessary. Pursuit can be used on a team that needs a Ghost and/or Psychic trapper, as Zoroark is a quite efficient trapper with Illusion, while Extrasensory can be used to lure Fighting-types, and Hidden Power Ice has a high chance of one-shoting Eviolite Gligar after Rocks.
Set Details
========
The choice between Naive and Naughty is if Speed is preferred over power. Naive outspeeds Delphox , while Naughty allows Zoroark to OHKO Jolteon and having a high chance to OHKO Sceptile and Cinccino with Sucker Punch, all three after Stealth Rock. Naughty works better on Sticky Web teams. Life Orb maximizes the damage dealt.
Usage Tips
========
If not leading with Zoroark, always put it as the second Pokemon, Illusion always disguises Zoroark as the last Pokemon on your team. Also, always try to disguise Zoroark as a Pokemon not weak to Stealth Rock or a Pokemon that is immune to Ground against a team with (Toxic) Spikes or Sticky Web, since it will reveal the Illusion. Don't disguise Zoroark as a Pokemon with any ability that trigger upon entering the field, such as Intimidate, Mold Breaker, weather-inducing ability and Unnerve, among others, as it'll break the stunt too. Don't bring Zoroark immediately unless it's a predicted Psychic-type move. It may end up killing Zoroark due its frailty.
Team Options
========
Though not crippling Zoroark as much as Pokemon weak to it, Stealth Rock can ruin Illusion, so Rapid Spin and Defog support is highly recommended. Due to Illusion, Zoroark has excellent synergy with Rapid Spin users by disguising itself as one of them. This can lure the Ghosts that try to prevent the hazard removal and kill them with a Dark STAB in process. Hitmonlee in particular is an excellent offensive partner, spinning away hazards and breaking through bulky Steel- and Dark-types while Zoroark destroys Ghost-types blocking his Spin and Psychic-types that resist Hitmonlee's Fighting STAB.Zoroark has great synergy type-wise with Poison-types, destroying Psychic- and Ghost-types while the Poison Pokemon take the Fighting-, Bug-, and Fairy-type moves aimed at Zoroark. Examples of Poison-types include Amoonguss, Weezing and Qwilfish.
Swords Dance
########
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Sucker Punch
move 3: Knock Off
move 4: Low Kick / Flamethrower
ability: Illusion
item: Focus Sash / BlackGlasses
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
nature: Jolly / Naive
Moves
========
Swords Dance boosts Zoroark's Attack to high levels. Sucker Punch, again, is Zoroark's only priority, but it's a strong one and becomes extremely powerful after a boost. Knock Off removes opponent's item and is the most spammable move Zoroark has. For coverage, Low Kick helps against Cobalion on the switch and opposite Dark-type Pokemon such as Drapion, Skuntank and opposite Zoroark, while also OHKOing 4 HP / 0 Def and Virizion and Emboar at +2, the latter after Stealth Rock; while Flamethrower is a stronger hit on Tangrowth and Whimsicott, OHKOing both after rocks most of the time. The other options for this slot are Return and Hidden Power Ice. Return hits Aromatisse harder, and Hidden Power Ice kills Gligar after its Eviolite is knocked off.
Set Details
========
Focus Sash grants Zoroark the opportunity of setting up at least once and then proceed to sweep opponent's team. BlackGlasses on the other hand boost the power of its STAB moves, and won't be a liability if Zoroark's partner wasn't able to remove the hazards. Naive should be used if Flamethrower is chosen for the last move slot, and the 4 Defense EVs should be moved to Special Attack. Maximum Attack and Speed EVs for sweeping better.
Usage Tips
========
Due to Illusion, Zoroark can use Swords Dance easier than most other Pokemon. It's ideal to set up while Zoroark is disguised as something that can threaten the opponent out, and remember, never bring Zoroark in an attack since it's very frail, especially if using Focus Sash since it'll break. Don't set up while the opponent has physical walls at full health. At +2 Zoroark can 2HKO most of them, so try to weaken the walls before Zoroark sets up.
Team Options
========
Powerful special attackers such as Delphox, Magneton and Clawitzer appreciate Zoroark breaking down special walls. In return, they can take out physically defensive Pokemon, helping Zoroark in his sweep. Doublade can form a strong core with Zoroark because the former not only breaks through Fairies such as Aromatisse and Granbull, but also Zoroark can fool the opponent making him/her think it's actually Doublade setting up. Cobalion is another good partner since it often carries Swords Dance and tends to lure in Cresselia, Slowking and Jellicent, all to be destroyed by Zoroark. Like the previous set, Rapid Spin or Defog is necessary to maintain Illusion intact.
Choice Specs
########
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Trick
move 2: Dark Pulse
move 3: Flamethrower
move 4: U-Turn
ability: Illusion
item: Choice Specs
evs: 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
nature: Timid
Moves
========
Trick is crux of this set, as it allows Zoroark to cripple many walls other of its sets are unable to deal with, such as Aromatisse, Togetic and Golbat. Dark Pulse is Zoroark's best and most spammable special STAB with a good chance of flinching thanks to Zoroark's high Speed. Flamethrower offers good coverage alongside Dark Pulse and deals with Cobalion and Virizion switch-in. Finally, U-turn helps Zoroark scouting, although it can reveal Illusion if not disguised as a Pokemon that can naturally learn U-turn. Grass Knot and Extrasensory can be used instead of U-Turn. Grass Knot nails Rhyperior and Sharpedo, while Extrasensory hits Emboar and Combusken. Both are not very good moves to be locked, however.
Set Details
========
- Maximun Special Attack and Speed
- Modest can be used to maximize Zoroark's power, but it misses outspeeding Delphox.
Usage Tips
========
- This set works mainly as a wallbreaker.
- Save Trick to cripple a wall as Zoroark will need its power due to the lack of a boosting move.
- Don't reveal Zoroark too early with U-turn or it may spoil the strategy.
Team Options
========
- Choice Scarf Emboar greatly appreciates Zoroark's ability to remove Slowking, Alomomola and Gligar, among other things. In return, Emboar destroys faster opponents that threaten Zoroark such as Durant, Cobalion, Virizion and Cinccino.
- Other physical attackers that appreciate Zoroark's wallbreak such as Cobalion and Choice Band Braviary.
- Sticky Web and/or paralyze support is highly recommended due to no acess to priority in this set.
- Hazard control is much more important on this set due to Zoroark switching out more often.
Nasty Plot
########
name: Nasty Plot
move 1: Nasty Plot
move 2: Dark Pulse
move 3: Flamethrower
move 4: Grass Knot
ability: Illusion
item: Life Orb
evs: 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
nature: Timid
Moves
========
- Nasty Plot boosts Special Attack
- Dark Pulse is Zoroark's strongest and most reliable special STAB and has a nice 30% flinch chance
- Flamethrower hits Steel-types, Whimsicott. Virizion hard, and at +2 has a 87.5% chance of OHKOing Hitmonlee after rocks. Also always OHKOes Drapion after rocks.
- Grass Knot is for Rhyperior and Poliwrath
- Extrasensory hits Emboar and Combusken
Set Details
========
- Maximun Special Attack and Speed for sweep
- Life Orb again maximizes damage output
Usage Tips
========
- Like the Swords Dance set, set up while Illusion is still on.
- Also like the Swords Dance set, try to set up disguised as a Pokemon that can force the foe out.
- Due the lack of priority, this set really fears being revenge killed. Only set-up after all threats that outspeed it.
Team Options
========
- Mismagius can Nasty Plot too, creating a nice set-up for Zoroark's illusion. The magical Pokemon discourages the Fighting-types switch-in due to its Ghost typing and access to Dazzling Gleam. However, since Mismagius has Levitate, be careful of disguising Zoroark as it if the field has grounded hazards.
- Powerful physical attackers such as Hitmonlee, Escavalier and Emboar appreciate Zoroark breaking down physical walls. In return, they can take out specially defensive Pokemon, helping Zoroark in his sweep.
- Sticky Web and/or paralyze support is highly recommended due to no acess to priority in this set
- Again, Rapid Spin or Defog to maintain Illusion's trick more reliable.
Other Options
########
Zoroark has some other cool options.
- Pursuit
- Memento
- Agility
- Calm Mind
- Choice Scarf
- HIDDEN POWER STEEL AND POISON (Fuck Aroma)
- Focus Blast
- Sash + Counter
- Taunt
- Night Daze
Checks & Counters
########
**Aromatisse and other fairies** - Aromatisse walls all sets while threatenning back with a powerful Moonlight or Wish stalling. The only thing Zoroark can do back is tricking Choice Specs. Granbull has trouble with Nasty Plot and Togetic hates Knock Off but they deal with Zoroark well too. Whimsicott is roasted by Flamethrower but can paralyze Zoroark with Stun Spore or destroy it with Moonblast
**Fighting-types** -Hitmonlee, Hitmontop, Emboar, Cobalion and Virizion all destroy Zoroark, with Emboar resisting all moves it often carries with exception of the rare Extrasensory or a boosted Low Kick. The latter two outspeed Zoroark but can't switch directly on any set with Flamethrower.
**Faster Pokemon that aren't OHKOed by Sucker Punch** - Durant and Yanmega are not OHKOed by unboosted Sucker Punch if at full health, and they can KO Zoroark back.
**Physical Walls for physical sets** - Weezing, Gligar and Alomomola can burn/Toxic stall Zoroark out while recovering via Pain Split / Roost / Wish.
**Faster Pokemon for special sets** - Since special Zoroark lacks priority, it's very easy to be revenge killed by faster Pokemon such as Jolteon, Swellow, Cinncino, Ambipom, Scarf users like Emboar and Braviary, etc.
**The Illusion Stunt** - The most threatenning characteristic about Zoroark is Illusion, as it can trick you and make you lose a Pokemon. The best way to deal with Illusion is observing the Stealth Rock damage, as it may indicate if it's Zoroark. Also, if you see any Pokemon normally with Levitate or Flying-type, such as Rotom-C or Braviary, being affected by grounded hazards such as Spikes, Toxic Spikes and Sticky Web, it's Zoroark disguising. Once Illusion is broken, it's much easier to deal with Zoroark.
Find a better spread for Mixed Set, if any.Test viability of choice items (Specs, Scarf, Band)(Specs is worth I guess although it can't 2HKO Bronzong Claydol and Reuniclus REALLY pissed me off, making last set of it; Scarf is meh and Band is also meh and hates to be Sucker Punch locked)
- Finish writing up (SLOW AND STEADY)
Acully is Zereakr
Overview
########
- Amazing offensive stats with 105 / 120 base Attack and Special Attack respectively
- Solid 105 Speed
- Powerful and useful STABs in Knock Off, Sucker Punch and Dark Pulse
- Good Coverage alongside its STABs
- Illusion is wonderful as the mere sight of a Zoroark in team preview forces the opponent to play carefully
- Frail as fuck
- Can't bypass Aromatisse no matter which set
Mixed
########
name: Mixed Attacker
move 1: Sucker Punch
move 2: Knock Off
move 3: Flamethrower
move 4: Grass Knot
ability: Illusion
item: Life Orb
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpA / 252 Spe
nature: Naive / Naughty
Moves
========
Sucker Punch is a strong STAB priority that helps picking off faster, frail opponents like Jolteon, Cinccino and Sceptile. It can also kill weakened Yanmega and Sharpedo, two top common and dangerous threats in the RU metagame. Knock Off is another strong STAB that removes opponent's item, being very useful against Eviolite users and other item-reliant Pokemon. It's also strong on a fresh switch-in. Flamethrower hits Escavalier, Tangrowth and Mega Abomasnow hard, while catching Cobalion and Virizion switch-ins. Lastly, Grass Knot nails Rhyperior while also doing nice damage against Poliwrath, Gastrodon and Alomomola. There are some other options on the last slot if Grass Knot isn't necessary. Pursuit can be used on a team that needs a Ghost and/or Psychic trapper, as Zoroark is a quite efficient trapper with Illusion, while Extrasensory can be used to lure Fighting-types, and Hidden Power Ice has a high chance of one-shoting Eviolite Gligar after Rocks.
Set Details
========
The choice between Naive and Naughty is if Speed is preferred over power. Naive outspeeds Delphox , while Naughty allows Zoroark to OHKO Jolteon and having a high chance to OHKO Sceptile and Cinccino with Sucker Punch, all three after Stealth Rock. Naughty works better on Sticky Web teams. Life Orb maximizes the damage dealt.
Usage Tips
========
If not leading with Zoroark, always put it as the second Pokemon, Illusion always disguises Zoroark as the last Pokemon on your team. Also, always try to disguise Zoroark as a Pokemon not weak to Stealth Rock or a Pokemon that is immune to Ground against a team with (Toxic) Spikes or Sticky Web, since it will reveal the Illusion. Don't disguise Zoroark as a Pokemon with any ability that trigger upon entering the field, such as Intimidate, Mold Breaker, weather-inducing ability and Unnerve, among others, as it'll break the stunt too. Don't bring Zoroark immediately unless it's a predicted Psychic-type move. It may end up killing Zoroark due its frailty.
Team Options
========
Though not crippling Zoroark as much as Pokemon weak to it, Stealth Rock can ruin Illusion, so Rapid Spin and Defog support is highly recommended. Due to Illusion, Zoroark has excellent synergy with Rapid Spin users by disguising itself as one of them. This can lure the Ghosts that try to prevent the hazard removal and kill them with a Dark STAB in process. Hitmonlee in particular is an excellent offensive partner, spinning away hazards and breaking through bulky Steel- and Dark-types while Zoroark destroys Ghost-types blocking his Spin and Psychic-types that resist Hitmonlee's Fighting STAB.Zoroark has great synergy type-wise with Poison-types, destroying Psychic- and Ghost-types while the Poison Pokemon take the Fighting-, Bug-, and Fairy-type moves aimed at Zoroark. Examples of Poison-types include Amoonguss, Weezing and Qwilfish.
Swords Dance
########
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Sucker Punch
move 3: Knock Off
move 4: Low Kick / Flamethrower
ability: Illusion
item: Focus Sash / BlackGlasses
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
nature: Jolly / Naive
Moves
========
Swords Dance boosts Zoroark's Attack to high levels. Sucker Punch, again, is Zoroark's only priority, but it's a strong one and becomes extremely powerful after a boost. Knock Off removes opponent's item and is the most spammable move Zoroark has. For coverage, Low Kick helps against Cobalion on the switch and opposite Dark-type Pokemon such as Drapion, Skuntank and opposite Zoroark, while also OHKOing 4 HP / 0 Def and Virizion and Emboar at +2, the latter after Stealth Rock; while Flamethrower is a stronger hit on Tangrowth and Whimsicott, OHKOing both after rocks most of the time. The other options for this slot are Return and Hidden Power Ice. Return hits Aromatisse harder, and Hidden Power Ice kills Gligar after its Eviolite is knocked off.
Set Details
========
Focus Sash grants Zoroark the opportunity of setting up at least once and then proceed to sweep opponent's team. BlackGlasses on the other hand boost the power of its STAB moves, and won't be a liability if Zoroark's partner wasn't able to remove the hazards. Naive should be used if Flamethrower is chosen for the last move slot, and the 4 Defense EVs should be moved to Special Attack. Maximum Attack and Speed EVs for sweeping better.
Usage Tips
========
Due to Illusion, Zoroark can use Swords Dance easier than most other Pokemon. It's ideal to set up while Zoroark is disguised as something that can threaten the opponent out, and remember, never bring Zoroark in an attack since it's very frail, especially if using Focus Sash since it'll break. Don't set up while the opponent has physical walls at full health. At +2 Zoroark can 2HKO most of them, so try to weaken the walls before Zoroark sets up.
Team Options
========
Powerful special attackers such as Delphox, Magneton and Clawitzer appreciate Zoroark breaking down special walls. In return, they can take out physically defensive Pokemon, helping Zoroark in his sweep. Doublade can form a strong core with Zoroark because the former not only breaks through Fairies such as Aromatisse and Granbull, but also Zoroark can fool the opponent making him/her think it's actually Doublade setting up. Cobalion is another good partner since it often carries Swords Dance and tends to lure in Cresselia, Slowking and Jellicent, all to be destroyed by Zoroark. Like the previous set, Rapid Spin or Defog is necessary to maintain Illusion intact.
Choice Specs
########
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Trick
move 2: Dark Pulse
move 3: Flamethrower
move 4: U-Turn
ability: Illusion
item: Choice Specs
evs: 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
nature: Timid
Moves
========
Trick is crux of this set, as it allows Zoroark to cripple many walls other of its sets are unable to deal with, such as Aromatisse, Togetic and Golbat. Dark Pulse is Zoroark's best and most spammable special STAB with a good chance of flinching thanks to Zoroark's high Speed. Flamethrower offers good coverage alongside Dark Pulse and deals with Cobalion and Virizion switch-in. Finally, U-turn helps Zoroark scouting, although it can reveal Illusion if not disguised as a Pokemon that can naturally learn U-turn. Grass Knot and Extrasensory can be used instead of U-Turn. Grass Knot nails Rhyperior and Sharpedo, while Extrasensory hits Emboar and Combusken. Both are not very good moves to be locked, however.
Set Details
========
- Maximun Special Attack and Speed
- Modest can be used to maximize Zoroark's power, but it misses outspeeding Delphox.
Usage Tips
========
- This set works mainly as a wallbreaker.
- Save Trick to cripple a wall as Zoroark will need its power due to the lack of a boosting move.
- Don't reveal Zoroark too early with U-turn or it may spoil the strategy.
Team Options
========
- Choice Scarf Emboar greatly appreciates Zoroark's ability to remove Slowking, Alomomola and Gligar, among other things. In return, Emboar destroys faster opponents that threaten Zoroark such as Durant, Cobalion, Virizion and Cinccino.
- Other physical attackers that appreciate Zoroark's wallbreak such as Cobalion and Choice Band Braviary.
- Sticky Web and/or paralyze support is highly recommended due to no acess to priority in this set.
- Hazard control is much more important on this set due to Zoroark switching out more often.
Nasty Plot
########
name: Nasty Plot
move 1: Nasty Plot
move 2: Dark Pulse
move 3: Flamethrower
move 4: Grass Knot
ability: Illusion
item: Life Orb
evs: 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
nature: Timid
Moves
========
- Nasty Plot boosts Special Attack
- Dark Pulse is Zoroark's strongest and most reliable special STAB and has a nice 30% flinch chance
- Flamethrower hits Steel-types, Whimsicott. Virizion hard, and at +2 has a 87.5% chance of OHKOing Hitmonlee after rocks. Also always OHKOes Drapion after rocks.
- Grass Knot is for Rhyperior and Poliwrath
- Extrasensory hits Emboar and Combusken
Set Details
========
- Maximun Special Attack and Speed for sweep
- Life Orb again maximizes damage output
Usage Tips
========
- Like the Swords Dance set, set up while Illusion is still on.
- Also like the Swords Dance set, try to set up disguised as a Pokemon that can force the foe out.
- Due the lack of priority, this set really fears being revenge killed. Only set-up after all threats that outspeed it.
Team Options
========
- Mismagius can Nasty Plot too, creating a nice set-up for Zoroark's illusion. The magical Pokemon discourages the Fighting-types switch-in due to its Ghost typing and access to Dazzling Gleam. However, since Mismagius has Levitate, be careful of disguising Zoroark as it if the field has grounded hazards.
- Powerful physical attackers such as Hitmonlee, Escavalier and Emboar appreciate Zoroark breaking down physical walls. In return, they can take out specially defensive Pokemon, helping Zoroark in his sweep.
- Sticky Web and/or paralyze support is highly recommended due to no acess to priority in this set
- Again, Rapid Spin or Defog to maintain Illusion's trick more reliable.
Other Options
########
Zoroark has some other cool options.
- Pursuit
- Memento
- Agility
- Calm Mind
- Choice Scarf
- HIDDEN POWER STEEL AND POISON (Fuck Aroma)
- Focus Blast
- Sash + Counter
- Taunt
- Night Daze
Checks & Counters
########
**Aromatisse and other fairies** - Aromatisse walls all sets while threatenning back with a powerful Moonlight or Wish stalling. The only thing Zoroark can do back is tricking Choice Specs. Granbull has trouble with Nasty Plot and Togetic hates Knock Off but they deal with Zoroark well too. Whimsicott is roasted by Flamethrower but can paralyze Zoroark with Stun Spore or destroy it with Moonblast
**Fighting-types** -Hitmonlee, Hitmontop, Emboar, Cobalion and Virizion all destroy Zoroark, with Emboar resisting all moves it often carries with exception of the rare Extrasensory or a boosted Low Kick. The latter two outspeed Zoroark but can't switch directly on any set with Flamethrower.
**Faster Pokemon that aren't OHKOed by Sucker Punch** - Durant and Yanmega are not OHKOed by unboosted Sucker Punch if at full health, and they can KO Zoroark back.
**Physical Walls for physical sets** - Weezing, Gligar and Alomomola can burn/Toxic stall Zoroark out while recovering via Pain Split / Roost / Wish.
**Faster Pokemon for special sets** - Since special Zoroark lacks priority, it's very easy to be revenge killed by faster Pokemon such as Jolteon, Swellow, Cinncino, Ambipom, Scarf users like Emboar and Braviary, etc.
**The Illusion Stunt** - The most threatenning characteristic about Zoroark is Illusion, as it can trick you and make you lose a Pokemon. The best way to deal with Illusion is observing the Stealth Rock damage, as it may indicate if it's Zoroark. Also, if you see any Pokemon normally with Levitate or Flying-type, such as Rotom-C or Braviary, being affected by grounded hazards such as Spikes, Toxic Spikes and Sticky Web, it's Zoroark disguising. Once Illusion is broken, it's much easier to deal with Zoroark.
Overview
########
- Amazing offensive stats with 105 / 120 base Attack and Special Attack respectively
- Solid 105 Speed
- Powerful and useful STABs in Knock Off, Sucker Punch and Dark Pulse
- Good Coverage alongside its STABs
- Illusion is wonderful as the mere sight of a Zoroark in team preview forces the opponent to play carefully
- Frail as fuck
- Can't bypass Aromatisse no matter which set
Mixed
########
name: Mixed Attacker
move 1: Sucker Punch
move 2: Knock Off
move 3: Flamethrower
move 4: Grass Knot
ability: Illusion
item: Life Orb
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpA / 252 Spe
nature: Naive / Naughty
Moves
========
- Sucker Punch is strong STAB priority that helps picking off faster, weaker opponents like Jolteon, Dugtrio and Sceptile. It can also kill weakened Yanmega and Sharpedo, two top common threats.
- Knock Off is another STAB and removes opponent's item, being very useful against Eviolite and other item-reliant users. It's also strong on a fresh foe.
- Flamethrower hits Escavalier, Tangrowth and Mega Abomasnow hard. Flamethrower also catches Cobalion and Virizion switch-ins.
- Grass Knot nails Rhyperior while also doing nice damage against Poliwrath, Gastrodon and Alomomola.
- Pursuit is a decent alternative over Grass Knot if a team needs a Pursuit trapper, as Zoroark is a quite efficient trapper with Illusion. In a similar vein, Extrasensory can be used to lure Fighting-types, and Hidden Power Ice has a high chance of one-shoting Eviolite Gligar after Rocks.
Set Details
========
- The choice between Naive and Naughty is if Speed is preferred over power. Naive outspeeds Delphox , while Naughty allows Zoroark to OHKO Jolteon and having a high chance to OHKO Sceptile and Cinccino with Sucker Punch, all three after Stealth Rock. Naughty works better on Sticky Web teams.
- Life Orb maximizes damage dealt
Usage Tips
========
- If not leading with Zoroark, always put it as the second Pokemon. Illusion disguises Zoroark always
- Don't bring Zoroark immediately unless it's a predicted Psychic-type move. It may end up killing Zoroark due its frailty.
- Always try to disguise Zoroark as a Pokemon not weak to Stealth Rock since it will reveal the Illusion. Also don't disguise as a Pokemon with any ability that trigger upon entering the field, such as Intimidate, Mold Breaker, weather-inducing ability and Unnerve, among others.
Team Options
========
- Zoroark has great synergy type-wise with Poison-types, destroying Psychic- and Ghost-types while the Poison Pokemon take the Fighting-, Bug-, and Fairy-type moves aimed at Zoroark. Examples of Poison-types include Amoonguss, Weezing and Qwilfish.
- Due to Illusion, Zoroark has excellent synergy with Rapid Spin users by disguising itself as one of them. This can lure the Ghosts that try to prevent the hazard removal and kill them with a Dark STAB in process. Hitmonlee in particular is an excellent offensive partner, spinning away hazards and breaking through bulky Steel- and Dark-types while Zoroark destroys Ghost-types blocking his Spin and Psychic-types that resist Hitmonlee's Fighting STAB.
- Though not cripple Zoroark as much as Pokemon weak to it, Stealth Rock can ruin Illusion, so Rapid Spin and Defog support is highly recommended.
Swords Dance
########
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Sucker Punch
move 3: Knock Off
move 4: Low Kick / Flamethrower
ability: Illusion
item: Focus Sash / BlackGlasses
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
nature: Jolly / Naive
Moves
========
- Swords Dance boosts attack
- Sucker Punch becomes extremely powerful after priority
- Knock Off removes opponent's item and is the most spammable move Zoroark has, especially after a SD boost
- Low Kick helps against Cobalion on the switch and opposite Dark-type Pokemon such as Drapion, Skuntank and opposite Zoroark, while also OHKOing 4 HP / 0 Def and Virizion and Emboar at +2 (the latter after Stealth Rock)
- Flamethrower is a stronger hit on Tangrowth and Whimsicott, OHKOing the former (non Ass Vest variants) after rocks most of the time.
- Return can be used to hit Aromatisse harder
- Hidden Power Ice hits Gligar hard.
Set Details
========
- Maximun Attack and Speed for sweep.
- Naive should be used if Flamethrower is chosen for the last move slot, and the 4 Defense EVs should be moved to Special Attack.
- Focus Sash grants Zoroark the opportunity of setting up at least once and then proceed to sweep opponent's team. BlackGlasses on the other hand boost the power of its STAB moves, and won't be a liability if Zoroark's partner wasn't able to remove the hazards.
Usage Tips
========
- Due to Illusion, Zoroark can use Swords Dance easier than most other Pokemon. It's ideal to set up while Zoroark is disguised as something that can threaten the opponent out.
- Never bring Zoroark in an attack since it's very frail and will break the Sash.
- Don't set up while the opponent has physical walls at full health. At +2 Zoroark can 2HKO most of them, so try to weaken the walls before Zoroark sets up.
Team Options
========
- Powerful special attackers such as Delphox, Magneton and Clawitzer appreciate Zoroark breaking down special walls. In return, they can take out physically defensive Pokemon, helping Zoroark in his sweep.
- Doublade can form a strong core with Zoroark because the former not only breaks through Fairies such as Aromatisse and Granbull, but also Zoroark can fool the opponent making him/her think it's actually Doublade setting up.
- Cobalion is another good partner since it often carries Swords Dance and tends to lure in Cresselia, Slowking and Jellicent, all to be destroyed by Zoroark.
- Rapid Spin or Defog to maintain Illusion intact.
Choice Specs
########
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Trick
move 2: Dark Pulse
move 3: Flamethrower
move 4: U-Turn
ability: Illusion
item: Choice Specs
evs: 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
nature: Timid
Moves
========
- Trick is the main reason to use Specs, as it cripples many walls other Zoroark sets are unable to deal with, such as Aromatisse
- Dark Pulse is Zoroark's best and most spammable special STAB with a good chance of flinching
- Flamethrower offers good coverage alongside Dark Pulse and deals Cobalion and Virizion switch-in
- U-turn scouts, although it can reveal Zoroark
- Grass Knot and Extrasensory could be used instead of U-Turn. Grass Knot nails Rhyperior and Sharpedo, while Extrasensory hits Emboar and Combusken. Both are not very good moves to be locked, however.
Set Details
========
- Maximun Special Attack and Speed
- Modest can be used to maximize Zoroark's power, but it misses outspeeding Delphox.
Usage Tips
========
- This set works mainly as a wallbreaker.
- Save Trick to cripple a wall as Zoroark will need its power due to the lack of a boosting move.
- Don't reveal Zoroark too early with U-turn or it may spoil the strategy.
Team Options
========
- Choice Scarf Emboar greatly appreciates Zoroark's ability to remove Slowking, Alomomola and Gligar, among other things. In return, Emboar destroys faster opponents that threaten Zoroark such as Durant, Cobalion, Virizion and Cinccino.
- Other physical attackers that appreciate Zoroark's wallbreak such as Cobalion and Choice Band Braviary.
- Sticky Web and/or paralyze support is highly recommended due to no acess to priority in this set.
- Hazard control is much more important on this set due to Zoroark switching out more often.
Nasty Plot
########
name: Nasty Plot
move 1: Nasty Plot
move 2: Dark Pulse
move 3: Flamethrower
move 4: Grass Knot
ability: Illusion
item: Life Orb
evs: 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
nature: Timid
Moves
========
- Nasty Plot boosts Special Attack
- Dark Pulse is Zoroark's strongest and most reliable special STAB and has a nice 30% flinch chance
- Flamethrower hits Steel-types, Whimsicott. Virizion hard, and at +2 has a 87.5% chance of OHKOing Hitmonlee after rocks. Also always OHKOes Drapion after rocks.
- Grass Knot is for Rhyperior and Poliwrath
- Extrasensory hits Emboar and Combusken
Set Details
========
- Maximun Special Attack and Speed for sweep
- Life Orb again maximizes damage output
Usage Tips
========
- Like the Swords Dance set, set up while Illusion is still on.
- Also like the Swords Dance set, try to set up disguised as a Pokemon that can force the foe out.
- Due the lack of priority, this set really fears being revenge killed. Only set-up after all threats that outspeed it.
Team Options
========
- Mismagius can Nasty Plot too, creating a nice set-up for Zoroark's illusion. The magical Pokemon discourages the Fighting-types switch-in due to its Ghost typing and access to Dazzling Gleam. However, since Mismagius has Levitate, be careful of disguising Zoroark as it if the field has grounded hazards.
- Powerful physical attackers such as Hitmonlee, Escavalier and Emboar appreciate Zoroark breaking down physical walls. In return, they can take out specially defensive Pokemon, helping Zoroark in his sweep.
- Sticky Web and/or paralyze support is highly recommended due to no acess to priority in this set
- Again, Rapid Spin or Defog to maintain Illusion's trick more reliable.
Other Options
########
- Pursuit
- Memento
- Agility
- Calm Mind
- Choice Scarf
- HIDDEN POWER STEEL AND POISON (Fuck Aroma)
- Focus Blast
- Sash + Counter
- Taunt
- Night Daze
Checks & Counters
########
- **Aromatisse and other fairies** - Aromatisse walls all sets while re. Granbull has trouble with Nasty Plot and Togetic hates Knock Off but they deal with Zoroark well too. Whimsicott is destroyed by Flamethrower but can paralyze Zoroark with Stun Spore or destroy it with Moonblast
- **Fighting-types** - Emboar, Cobalion, Virizion, Hitmonlee, Hitmontop
- **Faster Pokemon that aren't OHKOed by Sucker Punch** - Durant, full health Yanmega
- **Physical Walls for physical sets** - Gligar, Weezing, Alomomola
- **Faster Pokemon for special sets** - Since special Zoroark lacks priority, it's very easy to be revenge killed by faster Pokemon such as Jolteon, Swellow, Cinncino, Ambipom, Scarf users like Emboar and Braviary, etc.
- **The Illusion Stunt** - The most threatenning characteristic about Zoroark is Illusion, as it can trick you and make you lose a Pokemon. The best way to deal with Illusion is observing the Stealth Rock damage, as it may indicate if it's Zoroark. Also, if you see any Pokemon normally with Levitate or Flying-type, such as Rotom-C or Braviary, being affected by grounded hazards such as Spikes, Toxic Spikes and Sticky Web, it's Zoroark disguising. Once Illusion is broken, it's much easier to deal with Zoroark.
########
- Amazing offensive stats with 105 / 120 base Attack and Special Attack respectively
- Solid 105 Speed
- Powerful and useful STABs in Knock Off, Sucker Punch and Dark Pulse
- Good Coverage alongside its STABs
- Illusion is wonderful as the mere sight of a Zoroark in team preview forces the opponent to play carefully
- Frail as fuck
- Can't bypass Aromatisse no matter which set
Mixed
########
name: Mixed Attacker
move 1: Sucker Punch
move 2: Knock Off
move 3: Flamethrower
move 4: Grass Knot
ability: Illusion
item: Life Orb
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpA / 252 Spe
nature: Naive / Naughty
Moves
========
- Sucker Punch is strong STAB priority that helps picking off faster, weaker opponents like Jolteon, Dugtrio and Sceptile. It can also kill weakened Yanmega and Sharpedo, two top common threats.
- Knock Off is another STAB and removes opponent's item, being very useful against Eviolite and other item-reliant users. It's also strong on a fresh foe.
- Flamethrower hits Escavalier, Tangrowth and Mega Abomasnow hard. Flamethrower also catches Cobalion and Virizion switch-ins.
- Grass Knot nails Rhyperior while also doing nice damage against Poliwrath, Gastrodon and Alomomola.
- Pursuit is a decent alternative over Grass Knot if a team needs a Pursuit trapper, as Zoroark is a quite efficient trapper with Illusion. In a similar vein, Extrasensory can be used to lure Fighting-types, and Hidden Power Ice has a high chance of one-shoting Eviolite Gligar after Rocks.
Set Details
========
- The choice between Naive and Naughty is if Speed is preferred over power. Naive outspeeds Delphox , while Naughty allows Zoroark to OHKO Jolteon and having a high chance to OHKO Sceptile and Cinccino with Sucker Punch, all three after Stealth Rock. Naughty works better on Sticky Web teams.
- Life Orb maximizes damage dealt
Usage Tips
========
- If not leading with Zoroark, always put it as the second Pokemon. Illusion disguises Zoroark always
- Don't bring Zoroark immediately unless it's a predicted Psychic-type move. It may end up killing Zoroark due its frailty.
- Always try to disguise Zoroark as a Pokemon not weak to Stealth Rock since it will reveal the Illusion. Also don't disguise as a Pokemon with any ability that trigger upon entering the field, such as Intimidate, Mold Breaker, weather-inducing ability and Unnerve, among others.
Team Options
========
- Zoroark has great synergy type-wise with Poison-types, destroying Psychic- and Ghost-types while the Poison Pokemon take the Fighting-, Bug-, and Fairy-type moves aimed at Zoroark. Examples of Poison-types include Amoonguss, Weezing and Qwilfish.
- Due to Illusion, Zoroark has excellent synergy with Rapid Spin users by disguising itself as one of them. This can lure the Ghosts that try to prevent the hazard removal and kill them with a Dark STAB in process. Hitmonlee in particular is an excellent offensive partner, spinning away hazards and breaking through bulky Steel- and Dark-types while Zoroark destroys Ghost-types blocking his Spin and Psychic-types that resist Hitmonlee's Fighting STAB.
- Though not cripple Zoroark as much as Pokemon weak to it, Stealth Rock can ruin Illusion, so Rapid Spin and Defog support is highly recommended.
Swords Dance
########
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: Sucker Punch
move 3: Knock Off
move 4: Low Kick / Flamethrower
ability: Illusion
item: Focus Sash / BlackGlasses
evs: 252 Atk / 4 Def / 252 Spe
nature: Jolly / Naive
Moves
========
- Swords Dance boosts attack
- Sucker Punch becomes extremely powerful after priority
- Knock Off removes opponent's item and is the most spammable move Zoroark has, especially after a SD boost
- Low Kick helps against Cobalion on the switch and opposite Dark-type Pokemon such as Drapion, Skuntank and opposite Zoroark, while also OHKOing 4 HP / 0 Def and Virizion and Emboar at +2 (the latter after Stealth Rock)
- Flamethrower is a stronger hit on Tangrowth and Whimsicott, OHKOing the former (non Ass Vest variants) after rocks most of the time.
- Return can be used to hit Aromatisse harder
- Hidden Power Ice hits Gligar hard.
Set Details
========
- Maximun Attack and Speed for sweep.
- Naive should be used if Flamethrower is chosen for the last move slot, and the 4 Defense EVs should be moved to Special Attack.
- Focus Sash grants Zoroark the opportunity of setting up at least once and then proceed to sweep opponent's team. BlackGlasses on the other hand boost the power of its STAB moves, and won't be a liability if Zoroark's partner wasn't able to remove the hazards.
Usage Tips
========
- Due to Illusion, Zoroark can use Swords Dance easier than most other Pokemon. It's ideal to set up while Zoroark is disguised as something that can threaten the opponent out.
- Never bring Zoroark in an attack since it's very frail and will break the Sash.
- Don't set up while the opponent has physical walls at full health. At +2 Zoroark can 2HKO most of them, so try to weaken the walls before Zoroark sets up.
Team Options
========
- Powerful special attackers such as Delphox, Magneton and Clawitzer appreciate Zoroark breaking down special walls. In return, they can take out physically defensive Pokemon, helping Zoroark in his sweep.
- Doublade can form a strong core with Zoroark because the former not only breaks through Fairies such as Aromatisse and Granbull, but also Zoroark can fool the opponent making him/her think it's actually Doublade setting up.
- Cobalion is another good partner since it often carries Swords Dance and tends to lure in Cresselia, Slowking and Jellicent, all to be destroyed by Zoroark.
- Rapid Spin or Defog to maintain Illusion intact.
Choice Specs
########
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Trick
move 2: Dark Pulse
move 3: Flamethrower
move 4: U-Turn
ability: Illusion
item: Choice Specs
evs: 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
nature: Timid
Moves
========
- Trick is the main reason to use Specs, as it cripples many walls other Zoroark sets are unable to deal with, such as Aromatisse
- Dark Pulse is Zoroark's best and most spammable special STAB with a good chance of flinching
- Flamethrower offers good coverage alongside Dark Pulse and deals Cobalion and Virizion switch-in
- U-turn scouts, although it can reveal Zoroark
- Grass Knot and Extrasensory could be used instead of U-Turn. Grass Knot nails Rhyperior and Sharpedo, while Extrasensory hits Emboar and Combusken. Both are not very good moves to be locked, however.
Set Details
========
- Maximun Special Attack and Speed
- Modest can be used to maximize Zoroark's power, but it misses outspeeding Delphox.
Usage Tips
========
- This set works mainly as a wallbreaker.
- Save Trick to cripple a wall as Zoroark will need its power due to the lack of a boosting move.
- Don't reveal Zoroark too early with U-turn or it may spoil the strategy.
Team Options
========
- Choice Scarf Emboar greatly appreciates Zoroark's ability to remove Slowking, Alomomola and Gligar, among other things. In return, Emboar destroys faster opponents that threaten Zoroark such as Durant, Cobalion, Virizion and Cinccino.
- Other physical attackers that appreciate Zoroark's wallbreak such as Cobalion and Choice Band Braviary.
- Sticky Web and/or paralyze support is highly recommended due to no acess to priority in this set.
- Hazard control is much more important on this set due to Zoroark switching out more often.
Nasty Plot
########
name: Nasty Plot
move 1: Nasty Plot
move 2: Dark Pulse
move 3: Flamethrower
move 4: Grass Knot
ability: Illusion
item: Life Orb
evs: 4 Def / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
nature: Timid
Moves
========
- Nasty Plot boosts Special Attack
- Dark Pulse is Zoroark's strongest and most reliable special STAB and has a nice 30% flinch chance
- Flamethrower hits Steel-types, Whimsicott. Virizion hard, and at +2 has a 87.5% chance of OHKOing Hitmonlee after rocks. Also always OHKOes Drapion after rocks.
- Grass Knot is for Rhyperior and Poliwrath
- Extrasensory hits Emboar and Combusken
Set Details
========
- Maximun Special Attack and Speed for sweep
- Life Orb again maximizes damage output
Usage Tips
========
- Like the Swords Dance set, set up while Illusion is still on.
- Also like the Swords Dance set, try to set up disguised as a Pokemon that can force the foe out.
- Due the lack of priority, this set really fears being revenge killed. Only set-up after all threats that outspeed it.
Team Options
========
- Mismagius can Nasty Plot too, creating a nice set-up for Zoroark's illusion. The magical Pokemon discourages the Fighting-types switch-in due to its Ghost typing and access to Dazzling Gleam. However, since Mismagius has Levitate, be careful of disguising Zoroark as it if the field has grounded hazards.
- Powerful physical attackers such as Hitmonlee, Escavalier and Emboar appreciate Zoroark breaking down physical walls. In return, they can take out specially defensive Pokemon, helping Zoroark in his sweep.
- Sticky Web and/or paralyze support is highly recommended due to no acess to priority in this set
- Again, Rapid Spin or Defog to maintain Illusion's trick more reliable.
Other Options
########
- Pursuit
- Memento
- Agility
- Calm Mind
- Choice Scarf
- HIDDEN POWER STEEL AND POISON (Fuck Aroma)
- Focus Blast
- Sash + Counter
- Taunt
- Night Daze
Checks & Counters
########
- **Aromatisse and other fairies** - Aromatisse walls all sets while re. Granbull has trouble with Nasty Plot and Togetic hates Knock Off but they deal with Zoroark well too. Whimsicott is destroyed by Flamethrower but can paralyze Zoroark with Stun Spore or destroy it with Moonblast
- **Fighting-types** - Emboar, Cobalion, Virizion, Hitmonlee, Hitmontop
- **Faster Pokemon that aren't OHKOed by Sucker Punch** - Durant, full health Yanmega
- **Physical Walls for physical sets** - Gligar, Weezing, Alomomola
- **Faster Pokemon for special sets** - Since special Zoroark lacks priority, it's very easy to be revenge killed by faster Pokemon such as Jolteon, Swellow, Cinncino, Ambipom, Scarf users like Emboar and Braviary, etc.
- **The Illusion Stunt** - The most threatenning characteristic about Zoroark is Illusion, as it can trick you and make you lose a Pokemon. The best way to deal with Illusion is observing the Stealth Rock damage, as it may indicate if it's Zoroark. Also, if you see any Pokemon normally with Levitate or Flying-type, such as Rotom-C or Braviary, being affected by grounded hazards such as Spikes, Toxic Spikes and Sticky Web, it's Zoroark disguising. Once Illusion is broken, it's much easier to deal with Zoroark.
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