LC Ekans

[Fireflame]

QC: Hilomilo / AD Thunderboy / Berks
GP: P Squared / The Dutch Plumberjack

[OVERVIEW]

Ekans carves itself a niche in LC as the only viable Coil sweeper, and it has quite an offensive presence after Coil boosts. Its expansive movepool includes many coverage moves like Earthquake and Sucker Punch to hit specific threats as well as utility options like Glare, and its typing grants it resistances to common Fighting-type moves as well as Fairy- and Poison-type moves, allowing it to check Pokemon like Timburr, Mienfoo, Spritzee, and Foongus. Furthermore, Ekans has great abilities in Intimidate, which lowers the foe's Attack, and Shed Skin, which can cure Ekans of status, easing its setup opportunities. These traits allow it to function well on offensive teams. Unfortunately, Ekans is fairly weak without Coil boosts, meaning it is easily played around. Ekans's main STAB move, Gunk Shot, has very low PP, so it has to worry about that when sweeping. Its typing leaves it vulnerable to common Ground-types like Diglett, which can trap and OHKO Ekans, as well as Mudbray and Onix. Ekans also is somewhat slow, so its sweeps can be stopped by fast, powerful attackers like Gastly and Abra. Lastly, Ekans faces competition from other Poison-types like Alolan Grimer and Croagunk, with the former having Poison Touch, Knock Off, and a better typing and the latter having a better typing, more setup opportunities, and greater power.

[SET]
name: Coil Sweeper
move 1: Coil
move 2: Gunk Shot
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Sucker Punch
item: Berry Juice
ability: Intimidate / Shed Skin
nature: Careful
evs: 156 HP / 84 Def / 244 SpD

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

Coil boosts Ekans's Attack, Defense, and accuracy, allowing it to sweep weakened teams. STAB Gunk Shot dents anything that doesn't resist it. After a Coil boost, Gunk Shot is 100% accurate and can OHKO frail Pokemon and 2HKO bulky Pokemon like Mienfoo and Staryu. Earthquake is used to hit Steel-types that are immune to Gunk Shot such as Ferroseed, Magnemite, and Pawniard, as well as Rock-types that resist Gunk Shot like Tirtouga and Onix. Sucker Punch gives Ekans priority and hits Gastly and Abra hard as well as faster weakened foes like Doduo. Glare is an alternative that can cripple faster threats, including Ground-types, allowing Ekans to set up on them; however, Sucker Punch is too valuable for hitting Pokemon like Gastly, Frillish, and Abra.

Set Details
========

The given EV spread gives Ekans 22 / 12 / 16 bulk, letting it take several decently powerful neutral hits while hitting a Defense number that allows it to efficiently boost with Coil. Intimidate drops the foe's Attack, allowing Ekans to force switches and have an easier time setting up. The given bulk along with Intimidate allows Ekans to take hits like offensive Vullaby's Brave Bird and Ponyta's Flare Blitz. Shed Skin can also be run to get rid of annoying status ailments that can deter Ekans's sweeps. Berry Juice gives Ekans more longevity and can heal it to full HP after it takes a hit when sweeping. A Careful nature is used to increase Ekans's special bulk because Coil already boosts Defense.

Usage Tips
========

It is best for Ekans to be used as a mid- or late-game sweeper when its checks have been weakened or removed, such as fast, powerful attackers like Carvanha and bulky Steel- and Ground-types like Ferroseed and Mudbray. Ekans can be switched into neutral and resisted physical attacks thanks to Intimidate, but it should not switch into powerful attacks like Life Orb Pawniard's Knock Off and Magnemite's Thunderbolt. Be careful against Diglett, as it can trap Ekans and OHKO it with Earthquake, and it has a faster Sucker Punch. Also be wary against Pawniard, as if Ekans is running Intimidate, its switch into Pawniard will give it a +1 Attack boost due to Defiant. Ekans can be switched into common Fighting-types like Mienfoo and Timburr thanks to Intimidate as well as into Fairy-types like Spritzee and Cottonee due to its Poison typing. It can then proceed to set up a Coil or use Glare on a predicted switch. Gunk Shot should be used conservatively due to its low PP until all Steel-types are removed, in which case it can use it liberally when sweeping. Earthquake should be used to hit Steel-types like Pawniard when sweeping. Sucker Punch should be used to KO Gastly and Abra as well as hit faster Pokemon before Ekans goes down. Glare can be used before setting up, as the paralysis will make it easier for Ekans to sweep.

Team Options
========

Fighting-types such as Mienfoo, Scraggy, and Timburr appreciate Ekans's ability to handle Fairy-types, while they can weaken Steel-types for Ekans in return. Other Steel-type answers such as Diglett, Ponyta, and Mudbray can further pressure Steel-types and allow Ekans to have an easier time sweeping late-game. Water-types like Staryu and Carvanha can defeat Ground-types for Ekans, while it can check Grass-types for them in return. Ekans values Wish support from the likes of Spritzee, as Ekans can be worn down over the course of the match by switching into moves with Intimidate. In return, Ekans can take the Poison-type moves aimed at Spritzee. Ekans functions much better with Sticky Web support, as it will be able to threaten a wider range of foes; good Sticky Web users are Spinarak and Surskit. Knock Off users like Pawniard and Alolan Grimer can get rid of Eviolite on bulkier foes, allowing Ekans to take them out more easily when sweeping.

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

Ekans can act as a specialized Choice Scarf user and revenge killer due to its great movepool and decent 24 Speed when fully invested. This set would have Gunk Shot and Earthquake and would utilize coverage options like Seed Bomb, Sucker Punch, and Aqua Tail depending on team needs and what Ekans needs to revenge kill. Ekans can revenge kill Gastly, Abra, all Dragon Dance sweepers at +1, and common Shell Smash users like Tirtouga with a Choice Scarf and specific coverage moves. However, Ekans doesn't appreciate being locked into a move, and it lacks power without Coil boosts. Ekans can utilize a defensive support set due to its access to both Glare and Toxic along with interesting options like Haze, Acid Spray, Gastro Acid, Disable, and Infestation. However, this set faces extremely heavy competition from Mareanie, Foongus, and Koffing, leading it to be inferior to the Coil set. Aqua Tail hits Ground-types like Mudbray and Hippopotas harder than Gunk Shot and can be used to deal with Archen as well. Toxic can be run on the Coil set to cripple defensive switch-ins to Ekans that can tank its attacking moves, such as Spritzee, Munchlax, Archen, and Vullaby. However, Ekans more often than not won't have room for the move. Furthermore, Toxic damage takes a while to rack up due to Pokemon in LC having low health. Ekans can threaten Abra and Gastly out with a potential Sucker Punch and surprise them with Pursuit, but since Ekans can easily be KOed, running Pursuit is very unreliable. Also, Pawniard and Alolan Grimer are much better users of the move due to them having a STAB bonus on it. Ekans has access to decent special moves such as STAB Sludge Wave and Sludge Bomb, Dark Pulse, and Giga Drain; however, it's best for Ekans to stick to physical moves, as its Special Attack is very low. Rest + Shed Skin can be run to act as pseudo-reliable recovery, but the inconsistency of Shed Skin renders it risky to use.

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

**Ground-types**: Offensive Ground-types such as Diglett and offensive Mudbray can outspeed and KO Ekans with their super effective STAB moves. They can also revenge kill Ekans even when it is boosted. Defensive Ground-types like Hippopotas and defensive Mudbray can easily switch into Ekans because they resist Gunk Shot, take Ekans's other attacks, and KO it with their STAB moves.

**Abra and Gastly**: If Ekans is not running Sucker Punch, Abra can easily outspeed Ekans and KO it with Psychic, while Gastly can revenge kill Ekans once it is weakened. However, Ekans can OHKO both of them with Sucker Punch at +1 and can also outspeed and revenge kill them when holding a Choice Scarf.

**Rock-types**: Rock-types like Onix, Dwebble, and Tirtouga resist Gunk Shot and can force Ekans out. Archen is especially problematic, as it also is immune to Earthquake, making it a reliable answer to Ekans. It can also 2HKO Ekans with Earthquake, though it must be careful of Glare or Toxic. These Rock-types are hit hard by Earthquake, and some need to be careful of Ekans's rarer coverage moves like Aqua Tail and Seed Bomb.

**Steel-types**: Steel-types like Pawniard and Magnemite are immune to Ekans's Poison moves and can take at least one Earthquake due to decent bulk and Sturdy, respectively. Ferroseed only takes neutral damage from Earthquake and can easily come in on even a boosted Ekans and use it to set entry hazards.

**Physical Walls**: Slowpoke, Hippopotas, Foongus, and Munchlax can easily take Ekans's main attacking moves.

**Fast and Powerful Attackers**: Fast, powerful attackers like offensive Pawniard, Carvanha, and Duduo can revenge kill Ekans and stop it from sweeping. They do not like switching into Ekans's attacks in general, though.

 

[Fireflame]

Think this is ready for QC

 

[Hilomilo]

Overview
* Specify what kind of teams Ekans's traits allow it to function on (offensive).
* In your line about Ekans's abilities, don't say that they boost its defensive capabilities since Ekans is always looking to make use of its offensive capabilities. Instead, say that both abilities can help Ekans set up more reliably.
* "Ekans's niche as a defensive Poison-type lies in its ability to inflict both poison and paralysis as well as its access to Haze." - remove this line. Ekans is almost entirely outclassed as a defensive Poison-type so the overview shouldn't suggest it be used as one.
* Give examples of the fast and powerful Pokemon you say can revenge kill Ekans in your line about its bad Speed.
* Remove your line about Ekans being outclassed by other defensive Poison-types since it never tries fulfilling a defensive role. Replace this line with something about facing competition from other Poison-types. Give Alolan Grimer as an example due to its better typing and access to Knock Off, and give Croagunk as an example as well due to its better typing, wider variety of setup options, and greater power.

SET: COIL SWEEPER
Set
name: Coil Sweeper
move 1: Coil
move 2: Gunk Shot
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Sucker Punch / Glare
item: Berry Juice
ability: Intimidate / Shed Skin
nature: Careful
evs: 156 HP / 84 Def / 244 SpD

I talked with some other QC members and came to the conclusion that Sucker Punch is too valuable for things like Gastly and Frillish to use Glare, which in my experiences, has never really been of much use. Berry Juice should be the only item, since it allows Ekans to set up, recover damage taken in the process of setting up, and begin sweeping. Eviolite allows it to tank some hits but overall comes at the expense of pretty invaluable BJ recovery.

Moves
* I wouldn't give Ferroseed as an example of an Earthquake target. Even if it takes the most damage from Earthquake of all of Ekans's moves, the 2HKO is only guaranteed if Ekans is at +5.
* Replace 'Psychic-types' with 'Abra' since that's really the only Psychic-type target of the move unless you want to count Slowbro, which takes the hit rather comfortably for a Pokemon of its typing.
* Remove Bite from this section. It isn't anywhere near powerful enough to justify being mentioned outside of Other Options.

Set Details
* Give some examples of hits that the bulk and Intimidate Attack drops allow Ekans to tank. Don't factor in Eviolite, since it isn't on the main set (this means you should also refrain from mentioning it in the line).
* Elaborate in your Intimidate line. How exactly does it force switches and give Ekans a setup opportunity? (by decreasing the Attack of foes)
* Both your Eviolite and Berry Juice lines need to be modified. Berry Juice needs to sound like the more preferable option. You also need to change 'when sweeping' to 'when setting up' since the point of Berry Juice is that it allows Ekans to tank a hit or two in order to set up. Eviolite doesn't actually allow Ekans to defeat Pawniard, since it survives the OHKO from a boosted EQ and outspeeds and 2HKOs Ekans with Knock Off (which is boosted by Defiant). Life Orb sets flat out OHKO Ekans after a boost and Stealth Rock. Just say that Eviolite gives Ekans better bulk to more reliably set up in certain situations, but isn't as valuable as the recovery Berry Juice provides.

Usage Tips
* In your line regarding switching into Fighting-types, Glare mentions should be removed since Ekans won't likely use the move.
* Add Rock- and Ground-types in with Pokemon that need to be removed before spamming Gunk Shot, they may not be immune but still tank the attack thanks to their resistances. You also need to give examples of Pokemon with these types.

Team Options
* This looks good, but I'd add Sticky Web support in this section. Give relevant examples of Pokemon that can support Ekans with Sticky Web, and say that it allows Ekans to outpace and threaten a much wider variety of foes.

SET: DEFENSIVE SUPPORT
You've done a good job with this set, but it should really be removed. Defensive Ekans is pretty bad due to being almost completely outclassed by Mareanie and Koffing, and you should only being using Coil anyway since that's the only niche it has.

Other Options* Put the defensive set here. Say that it faces too heavy of competition from Mareanie, Foongus, and Koffing to justify use.
* Ekans won't be using Glare very often on its Coil set, so in your Toxic line, replace 'However, the paralysis from Glare makes Ekans sweep a lot easier.' with 'However, Ekans more often than not won't have room for the move.'
* Remove Rock Tomb, since this analysis won't have a defensive set anymore.
* Why exactly does Ekans need to stick to Physical attacks? Explain.
* Move Choice Scarf to the top of this section, since it's the best option of what's here. Also remove Bite, and say that Ekans usually doesn't appreciate being locked onto moves and lacks power without Glare boosts.
* Remove Gastro Acid, Toxic + Infestation, and Disable lines, since these were all for the now nonexistent defensive set.

Checks and Counters
* 'Mudbray proves to be particularly troublesome, as its access to rest allows it to get rid of Ekans's Glare or Toxic.' - this sentence should be removed, since Ekans doesn't commonly use Glare or Toxic.* Remove 'and can also outspeed and revenge kill them with Bite when holding a Choice Scarf.' from your Abra and Gastly section, Choice Scarf Ekans isn't something they should be wary of since it's too niche and irrelevant.
* Remove Toxic mentions in your Physical Walls section, since Toxic is irrelevant on Ekans.
* Remove Magnemite as an example in your last section, since it's immune to Glare.

This is a lot to implement, so take your time with this check and make sure all of it is implemented. After all that's done, 1/3

 

[Fireflame]

Alright. I think I got everything.

 

[churine]

yeah yeah amcheck here, implement what you want unless stamped by a qc dude
--------

in the overview, you should mention what those coverage moves are (eq and sucker punch) and what it allows Ekans to do.
i think "setting up more reliably" is too barren, instead, mention that Intimidate lowers the foes Attack while Shed Skin can remove annoying status, easing set up opportunities imo.
"Ekans's traits allow it to function well on offensive traits" also is too barren as it doesn't tell me anything really. you could probably merge this with some other point tbh.

in moves, mention that Earthquake hits Rock-types that resist Gunk Shot.
say that Sucker Punch can be used to hit faster weakened foes.

in usage tips, you should probably remove the "especially without Eviolite" part imo, since its rather unnecessary and there isn't really any mention of Eviolite on the set.
i think mentioning how it can switch into Spritzee and Cottonee is pretty cool, you can mention it with the Fighting-types point.
mention something about Sucker Punch here.
you should make a line saying that Ekans should be careful of switching into Pawniard if it has intimidate, as it carries Defiant.
i think a mention surrounding Diglett is worth a mention here, as another Pokemon to be wary of, as Diglett traps Ekans to OHKO with EQ and can even make Ekans's Sucker Punch useless by having its own Sucker Punch, as it is faster.

in other options, you should mention that Toxic takes a long time to start racking up significant damage due to low numbers in lc, i'd also probably list this after Aqua Tail too, since the coverage is far more useful in most cases.
remove the Pursuit mention. Ekans does not force out Abra and Gastly, the two most common Pursuit bait mons, whatsoever, and Ekans does not have a good typing for it, primarily against Abra.

in checks and counters, i'd remove your Abra and Gastly line, since the only set is Coil which will have Sucker Punch most of the time, making them unreliable checks.
in the Archen line, remove mentions of Toxic as defensive is no longer a main set.
flesh out your physical walls line, mention how they can take Ekan's attacks and any ways to retaliate back. i'd remove the Hippo mention here since you mention it in Ground-types.

good shit

 

[Xayah]

Implement Elec's check, but pay attention to:

in moves, mention that Earthquake hits Rock-types that resist Gunk Shot.
say that Sucker Punch can be used to hit faster weakened foes.

Give examples here (Onix, Tirtouga for Rock-types, Abra, Doduo for faster foes)

mention something about Sucker Punch here.

To clarify, he meant to explain when to use Sucker Punch

you should make a line saying that Ekans should be careful of switching into Pawniard if it has intimidate, as it carries Defiant.

Ekans should never switch into Pawn anyway, so don't implement this

i think a mention surrounding Diglett is worth a mention here, as another Pokemon to be wary of, as Diglett traps Ekans to OHKO with EQ and can even make Ekans's Sucker Punch useless by having its own Sucker Punch, as it is faster.

Add something about Dig trapping Ekans to the Overview as well, it's very important

remove the Pursuit mention. Ekans does not force out Abra and Gastly, the two most common Pursuit bait mons, whatsoever, and Ekans does not have a good typing for it, primarily against Abra.

Do not remove Pursuit, but change the wording to something like
'Ekans can threaten Abra and Gastly out with Sucker Punch and surprise them with Pursuit, but since it can easily be KOed it's very unreliable'

Good job Elec.!

Also implement:

Overview

• Mention Abra > Carvanha, it's much more relevant
• Mention Gunk Shot's very low PP

Set Details

• Change up your first line. What does that bulk do for Ekans? Does it take any notable hits? Also mention that it gives Ekans an 'Eviolite' number in Def allowing it to effieciently boost it with Coil.

Usage Tips

• Clarify that Gunk Shot should be used conservatively because of low PP (do this in the existing line)

Team Options

• Remove Lickitung mention, it's completely irrelevant

Checks and Counters

• Change the Archen section to a Rock-type section and give Onix, Dwebble, and Tirtouga special mentions. Do explain why Archen is especially good tho (immune to EQ).
• Pawniard, Carvanha, and Doduo don't like switching into Ekans in general, so don't just say 'They do not like switching into Glare'

QC 2/3, write me up Scotty

 

[Fireflame]

This is now written and ready for the third QC check.

 

[Berks]

Sorry for the long wait!

As far as I can tell, the only thing for you to do is make special mention in Usage Tips about not switching Ekans into Pawniard if it's running Intimidate, as that will trigger Pawniard's Defiant boost.

Solid work, QC 3/3

 

[Fireflame]

Finished and ready for GP

 

[Conor3197]

AMCHECK
remove add (comments) change capitalization

amcheck

[OVERVIEW]

Ekans carves itself a niche in LC as the only viable Coil sweeper, and it has quite an offensive presence after Coil boosts. Ekans has an expansive movepool that includes many coverage moves like Earthquake and Sucker Punch to hit specific threats (such as? Steel- and Physic-types) ,(AC) as well as utility options like Glare. Its typing grants it resistances to common Fighting-type moves as well as Fairy- and Poison-type moves, allowing it to check Pokemon like Timburr, Mienfoo, Spritzee, and Foongus. Furthermore, Ekans has great abilities in Intimidate, which lowers the foe's attack, and Shed Skin, which can cure Ekans of status,(fluff) easing its setup opportunities. These traits allow it to function well on offensive teams. Unfortunately, Ekans is fairly weak without Coil boosts, meaning that it is easily played around. Ekans's main STAB move, Gunk Shot, has very low PP, so it has to worry about that when sweeping. Its typing leaves it vulnerable to common Ground-types like Diglett, which can trap and OHKO Ekans, as well as Mudbray and Onix. Ekans is somewhat slow, so its sweeps can be stopped by fast, powerful attackers like Gastly and Abra. Ekans also faces competition from other Poison-types like Alolan Grimer and Croagunk, with the former having Poison Touch, Knock Off, and a better typing and the latter having a better typing, more setup opportunities, and greater power.

[SET]
name: Coil Sweeper
move 1: Coil
move 2: Gunk Shot
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Sucker Punch
item: Berry Juice
ability: Intimidate / Shed Skin
nature: Careful
evs: 156 HP / 84 Def / 244 SpD

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

Coil boosts Ekans's Attack, Defense, and accuracy, allowing it to sweep weakened teams. Gunk Shot is Ekans's main STAB move, denting anything that doesn't resist it. After a Coil boost, Gunk Shot is 100% accurate and cangiving Ekans a chance to OHKO frail Pokemon and 2HKO bulky Pokemon like Mienfoo and Staryu. Earthquake is used to hit Steel-types that are immune to Gunk Shot such as Ferroseed, Magnemite, and Pawniard, as well as Rock-types that resist Gunk Shot like Tirtouga and Onix. Sucker Punch gives Ekans priority and hits Gastly and Abra hard as well as faster weakened foes like Doduo. Glare can also be used to cripple faster threats, including Ground-types, allowing Ekans to set up on them; however, Sucker Punch is too valuable for hitting Pokemon like Gastly, Frillish, and Abra.

Set Details
========

The given EV spread gives Ekans 22 / 12 / 16 bulk, letting it take several decently powerful neutral hits while hitting a Defense number that allows it to efficiently boost with Coil. Intimidate drops the foe's Attack, allowing Ekans to force switches and have an easier time setting up. The given bulk along with Intimidate allows Ekans to take hits like offensive Vullaby's Brave Bird and Ponyta's Flare Blitz. Shed Skin can also be run to get rid of annoying status ailments that can deter Ekans's sweeps. Berry Juice gives Ekans more longevity and can heal it to full HP after it takes a hit when sweeping. A Careful nature is used to increase Ekans's special bulk because Coil already boosts Defense.

Usage Tips
========

It is best for Ekans to be used as a mid- or late-game sweeper when its checks have been weakened or removed(moved this to the end to make it sound better), such as fast, powerful attackers like Carvanha and bulky Steel- and Ground-types like Ferroseed and Mudbray,(AC) have been weakened or removed. Ekans can be switched into neutral and resisted physical attacks thanks to Intimidate, but it should not switch into powerful attacks like Life Orb Pawniard's Knock Off and Magnemite's Thunderbolt. Be careful against Diglett, as it can trap and OHKO Ekans with Earthquake, and it has a faster Sucker Punch. Also be wary against Pawniard, as if Ekans is running Intimidate, its switch into Pawniard will give itPawniard a +2 Attack boost due to Defiant. Ekans can be switched into common Fighting-types like Mienfoo and Timburr thanks to Intimidate as well as Fairy-types like Spritzee and Cottonee due to its Poison typing. It can then proceed to set up a Coil or use Glare on a predicted switch. Gunk Shot should be used conservatively due to its low PP until all Steel-types are removed, in which case it can use it liberally when sweeping. Earthquake should be used to hit Steel-types like Pawniard when sweeping. Sucker Punch should be used to KO Gastly and Abra as well as hit faster Pokemon before Ekans goes down. Glare can be used before setting up, as the paralysis will make it easier for Ekans to sweep.

Team Options
========

Fighting-types such as Mienfoo, Scraggy, and Timburr appreciate Ekans's ability to handle Fairy-types, while they can weaken Steel-types for Ekans in return. Other Steel-type answers such as Diglett, Ponyta, and Mudbray can further pressure Steel-types and allow Ekans to have an easier time sweeping late-game. (I think Diglett desserves a specific mention here as it can also trap Steel-types) Water-types like Staryu and Carvanha can defeat Ground-types for Ekans, while it can check Grass-types for them in return. Ekans values Wish support from the likes of Spritzee, as Ekans can be worn down over the course of the match by switching into moves with Intimidate. In return, Ekans can take the Poison-type moves aimed at Spritzee. Ekans functions much better with Sticky Web support from the likes of Spinarak or Surskit, as it allows Ekans to threaten a wider range of foes; good Sticky Web users are Spinarak and Surskit. Knock Off users like Pawniard and Alolan Grimer can get rid of Eviolite on bulkier foes, allowing Ekans to take them out easier when sweeping.

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

Ekans can act as a specialized Choice Scarf user and revenge killer due to its great movepool and decent 24 Speed when fully invested. This set would have Gunk Shot and Earthquake,(AC) and it would utilize coverage options like Seed Bomb, Sucker Punch, and Aqua Tail depending on the team needs and what Ekans needs to revenge kill. Ekans can revenge kill Gastly, Abra, all Dragon Dance sweepers at +1, and common Shell Smash users like Tirtouga with a Choice Scarf and specific coverage moves. However, Ekans doesn't appreciate being locked into a move, and it lacks power without Coil boosts. Ekans can utilize a defensive support set due to its access to both Glare and Toxic along with interesting options like Haze, Acid Spray, Gastro Acid, Disable, and Infestation. However, this set faces extremely heavy competition from Mareanie, Foongus, and Koffing, leading it to be inferior to the Coil set. Aqua Tail hits Ground-types like Mudbray and Hippopotas harder than Gunk Shot and can be used to deal with Archen as well. Toxic can be run on the Coil set to cripple defensive switch-ins to Ekans that can tank its attacking moves, such as Spritzee, Munchlax, Archen, and Vullaby.(remove period);(SC) however, Ekans more often than not won't have room for the move. Furthermore, Toxic damage takes a while to rack up due to Pokemon in LC having low health. Ekans can threaten Abra and Gastly out with a potential Sucker Punch and surprise them with Pursuit, but since it can easily be KOed, running Pursuit is very unreliable. Also, Pawniard and Alolan Grimer are much better users of the move due to them having a STAB bonus on it. Ekans has access to decent special moves such as STAB Sludge Wave and Sludge Bomb, Dark Pulse, and Giga Drain; however, it's best for Ekans to stick to physical moves, as its Special Attack is very low. Rest +and Shed Skin can be run to act as pseudo-reliable recovery, but the inconsistency of Shed Skin renders it risky to use.

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

**Ground-types**: Offensive Ground-types such as Diglett and offensive Mudbray can outspeed and KO Ekans with their super effective STAB type moves. They can also revenge kill Ekans,(AC) even when it is boosted. Defensive Ground-types like Hippopotas and defensive Mudbray can easily switch into Ekans because they resist Gunk Shot, and once they are in they can take Ekans's other attacks,(RC) and KO it with their STAB moves.

**Abra and Gastly**: If Ekans is not running Sucker Punch, Abra can easily outspeed and KO Ekans with Psychic, while Gastly can revenge kill Ekans once it is weakened. However, Ekans can OHKO both of them with Sucker Punch at +1 and can also outspeed and revenge kill them when holding a Choice Scarf.

**Rock-types**: Rock-types like Onix, Dwebble, and Tirtouga resist Gunk Shot and can force Ekans out. Archen is especially problematic, as it also is immune to Earthquake, making it a reliable answer to Ekans. It can also 2HKO Ekans with Earthquake, though it must be careful of Glare or Toxic. TheseThe former Rock-types are hit hard by Earthquake, and some need to be careful of Ekans's rarer coverage moves like Aqua Tail and Seed Bomb.

**Steel-types**: Steel-types like Pawniard and Magnemite are immune to Ekans's Poison moves and can take at least one Earthquake due to decent bulk and Sturdy, respectively. Ferroseed only takes neutral damage from Earthquake and,(AC) so it can easily come in on even a boosted Ekans and use it to set entry hazards.

**Physical Walls**: Slowpoke, Hippopotas, Foongus, and Munchlax can easily take Ekans's main attacking moves.

**Fast and Powerful Attackers**: Fast, powerful attackers like offensive Pawniard, Carvanha, and Duduo can revenge kill Ekans and stop it from sweeping. They do not like switching into Ekans's attacks in general, though.

 

[P Squared]

GP 1/2

Hide

[OVERVIEW]

Ekans carves itself a niche in LC as the only viable Coil sweeper, and it has quite an offensive presence after Coil boosts. Ekans has an expansive movepool that includes many coverage moves like Earthquake and Sucker Punch to hit specific threats as well as utility options like Glare. Its typing grants it resistances to common Fighting-type moves as well as Fairy- and Poison-type moves, allowing it to check Pokemon like Timburr, Mienfoo, Spritzee, and Foongus. Furthermore, Ekans has great abilities in Intimidate, which lowers the foe's Attack, and Shed Skin, which can cure Ekans of status, easing its setup opportunities. These traits allow it to function well on offensive teams. Unfortunately, Ekans is fairly weak without Coil boosts, meaning it is easily played around. Ekans's main STAB move, Gunk Shot, has very low PP, so it has to worry about that when sweeping. Its typing leaves it vulnerable to common Ground-types like Diglett, which can trap and OHKO Ekans, as well as Mudbray and Onix. Ekans is somewhat slow, so its sweeps can be stopped by fast, powerful attackers like Gastly and Abra. Ekans also faces competition from other Poison-types like Alolan Grimer and Croagunk, with the former having Poison Touch, Knock Off, and a better typing and the latter having a better typing, more setup opportunities, and greater power.

[SET]
name: Coil Sweeper
move 1: Coil
move 2: Gunk Shot
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Sucker Punch
item: Berry Juice
ability: Intimidate / Shed Skin
nature: Careful
evs: 156 HP / 84 Def / 244 SpD

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

Coil boosts Ekans's Attack, Defense, and accuracy, allowing it to sweep weakened teams. STAB Gunk Shot is Ekans's main STAB move, denting (it's the only STAB move) dents anything that doesn't resist it. After a Coil boost, Gunk Shot is 100% accurate and can OHKO frail Pokemon and 2HKO bulky Pokemon like Mienfoo and Staryu. Earthquake is used to hit Steel-types that are immune to Gunk Shot such as Ferroseed, Magnemite, and Pawniard, as well as Rock-types that resist Gunk Shot like Tirtouga and Onix. Sucker Punch gives Ekans priority and hits Gastly and Abra hard as well as faster weakened foes like Doduo. Glare can also be used to cripple faster threats, including Ground-types, allowing Ekans to set up on them; however, Sucker Punch is too valuable for hitting Pokemon like Gastly, Frillish, and Abra.

Set Details
========

The given EV spread gives Ekans 22 / 12 / 16 bulk, letting it take several decently powerful neutral hits while hitting a Defense number that allows it to efficiently boost with Coil. Intimidate drops the foe's Attack, allowing Ekans to force switches and have an easier time setting up. The given bulk along with Intimidate allows Ekans to take hits like offensive Vullaby's Brave Bird and Ponyta's Flare Blitz. Shed Skin can also be run to get rid of annoying status ailments that can deter Ekans's sweeps. Berry Juice gives Ekans more longevity and can heal it to full HP after it takes a hit when sweeping. A Careful nature is used to increase Ekans's special bulk because Coil already boosts Defense.

Usage Tips
========

It is best for Ekans to be used as a mid- or late-game sweeper when its checks have been weakened or removed, such as fast, powerful attackers like Carvanha and bulky Steel- and Ground-types like Ferroseed and Mudbray. Ekans can be switched into neutral and resisted physical attacks thanks to Intimidate, but it should not switch into powerful attacks like Life Orb Pawniard's Knock Off and Magnemite's Thunderbolt. Be careful against Diglett, as it can trap and OHKO Ekans with Earthquake, and it has a faster Sucker Punch. Also be wary against Pawniard, as if Ekans is running Intimidate, its switch into Pawniard will give it a +2 Attack boost due to Defiant. Ekans can be switched into common Fighting-types like Mienfoo and Timburr thanks to Intimidate as well as Fairy-types like Spritzee and Cottonee due to its Poison typing. It can then proceed to set up a Coil or use Glare on a predicted switch. Gunk Shot should be used conservatively due to its low PP until all Steel-types are removed, in which case it can use it liberally when sweeping. Earthquake should be used to hit Steel-types like Pawniard when sweeping. Sucker Punch should be used to KO Gastly and Abra as well as hit faster Pokemon before Ekans goes down. Glare can be used before setting up, as the paralysis will make it easier for Ekans to sweep.

Team Options
========

Fighting-types such as Mienfoo, Scraggy, and Timburr appreciate Ekans's ability to handle Fairy-types, while they can weaken Steel-types for Ekans in return. Other Steel-type answers such as Diglett, Ponyta, and Mudbray can further pressure Steel-types and allow Ekans to have an easier time sweeping late-game. Water-types like Staryu and Carvanha can defeat Ground-types for Ekans, while it can check Grass-types for them in return. Ekans values Wish support from the likes of Spritzee, as Ekans can be worn down over the course of the match by switching into moves with Intimidate. In return, Ekans can take the Poison-type moves aimed at Spritzee. Ekans functions much better with Sticky Web support, as it allows Ekans to threaten a wider range of foes; good Sticky Web users are Spinarak and Surskit. Knock Off users like Pawniard and Alolan Grimer can get rid of Eviolite on bulkier foes, allowing Ekans to take them out easier ("more easily" sounds more natural here imo but up to you) when sweeping.

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

Ekans can act as a specialized Choice Scarf user and revenge killer due to its great movepool and decent 24 Speed when fully invested. This set would have Gunk Shot and Earthquake and would utilize coverage options like Seed Bomb, Sucker Punch, and Aqua Tail depending on team needs and what Ekans needs to revenge kill. Ekans can revenge kill Gastly, Abra, all Dragon Dance sweepers at +1, and common Shell Smash users like Tirtouga with a Choice Scarf and specific coverage moves. However, Ekans doesn't appreciate being locked into a move, and it lacks power without Coil boosts. Ekans can utilize a defensive support set due to its access to both Glare and Toxic along with interesting options like Haze, Acid Spray, Gastro Acid, Disable, and Infestation. However, this set faces extremely heavy competition from Mareanie, Foongus, and Koffing, leading it to be inferior to the Coil set. Aqua Tail hits Ground-types like Mudbray and Hippopotas harder than Gunk Shot and can be used to deal with Archen as well. Toxic can be run on the Coil set to cripple defensive switch-ins to Ekans that can tank its attacking moves, such as Spritzee, Munchlax, Archen, and Vullaby. However, Ekans more often than not won't have room for the move. Furthermore, Toxic damage takes a while to rack up due to Pokemon in LC having low health. Ekans can threaten Abra and Gastly out with a potential Sucker Punch and surprise them with Pursuit, but since it can easily be KOed, running Pursuit is very unreliable. Also, Pawniard and Alolan Grimer are much better users of the move due to them having a STAB bonus on it. Ekans has access to decent special moves such as STAB Sludge Wave and Sludge Bomb, Dark Pulse, and Giga Drain; however, it's best for Ekans to stick to physical moves, as its Special Attack is very low. Rest + Shed Skin can be run to act as pseudo-reliable recovery, but the inconsistency of Shed Skin renders it risky to use.

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

**Ground-types**: Offensive Ground-types such as Diglett and offensive Mudbray can outspeed and KO Ekans with their super effective STAB type moves. They can also revenge kill Ekans even when it is boosted. Defensive Ground-types like Hippopotas and defensive Mudbray can easily switch into Ekans because they resist Gunk Shot, take Ekans's other attacks, and KO it with their STAB moves.

**Abra and Gastly**: If Ekans is not running Sucker Punch, Abra can easily outspeed Ekans and KO Ekans it with Psychic, while Gastly can revenge kill Ekans once it is weakened. However, Ekans can OHKO both of them with Sucker Punch at +1 and can also outspeed and revenge kill them when holding a Choice Scarf.

**Rock-types**: Rock-types like Onix, Dwebble, and Tirtouga resist Gunk Shot and can force Ekans out. Archen is especially problematic, as it also is immune to Earthquake, making it a reliable answer to Ekans. It can also 2HKO Ekans with Earthquake, though it must be careful of Glare or Toxic. These Rock-types are hit hard by Earthquake, and some need to be careful of Ekans's rarer coverage moves like Aqua Tail and Seed Bomb.

**Steel-types**: Steel-types like Pawniard and Magnemite are immune to Ekans's Poison moves and can take at least one Earthquake due to decent bulk and Sturdy, respectively. Ferroseed only takes neutral damage from Earthquake and can easily come in on even a boosted Ekans and use it to set entry hazards.

**Physical Walls**: Slowpoke, Hippopotas, Foongus, and Munchlax can easily take Ekans's main attacking moves.

**Fast and Powerful Attackers**: Fast, powerful attackers like offensive Pawniard, Carvanha, and Duduo can revenge kill Ekans and stop it from sweeping. They do not like switching into Ekans's attacks in general, though.

 

[Fireflame]

Thanks! Implemented

 

[Lumari]

GP 2/2

check

[OVERVIEW]

Ekans carves itself a niche in LC as the only viable Coil sweeper, and it has quite an offensive presence after Coil boosts. Ekans has an Its expansive movepool that includes many coverage moves like Earthquake and Sucker Punch to hit specific threats as well as utility options like Glare, (comma) and its typing grants it resistances to common Fighting-type moves as well as Fairy- and Poison-type moves, allowing it to check Pokemon like Timburr, Mienfoo, Spritzee, and Foongus. Furthermore, Ekans has great abilities in Intimidate, which lowers the foe's Attack, and Shed Skin, which can cure Ekans of status, easing its setup opportunities. These traits allow it to function well on offensive teams. Unfortunately, Ekans is fairly weak without Coil boosts, meaning it is easily played around. Ekans's main STAB move, Gunk Shot, has very low PP, so it has to worry about that when sweeping. Its typing leaves it vulnerable to common Ground-types like Diglett, which can trap and OHKO Ekans, as well as Mudbray and Onix. Ekans also is somewhat slow, so its sweeps can be stopped by fast, powerful attackers like Gastly and Abra. Lastly, Ekans also faces competition from other Poison-types like Alolan Grimer and Croagunk, with the former having Poison Touch, Knock Off, and a better typing and the latter having a better typing, more setup opportunities, and greater power.

[SET]
name: Coil Sweeper
move 1: Coil
move 2: Gunk Shot
move 3: Earthquake
move 4: Sucker Punch
item: Berry Juice
ability: Intimidate / Shed Skin
nature: Careful
evs: 156 HP / 84 Def / 244 SpD

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

Coil boosts Ekans's Attack, Defense, and accuracy, allowing it to sweep weakened teams. STAB Gunk Shot dents anything that doesn't resist it. After a Coil boost, Gunk Shot is 100% accurate and can OHKO frail Pokemon and 2HKO bulky Pokemon like Mienfoo and Staryu. Earthquake is used to hit Steel-types that are immune to Gunk Shot such as Ferroseed, Magnemite, and Pawniard, as well as Rock-types that resist Gunk Shot like Tirtouga and Onix. Sucker Punch gives Ekans priority and hits Gastly and Abra hard as well as faster weakened foes like Doduo. Glare is an alternative that can also be used to cripple faster threats, including Ground-types, allowing Ekans to set up on them; however, Sucker Punch is too valuable for hitting Pokemon like Gastly, Frillish, and Abra.

Set Details
========

The given EV spread gives Ekans 22 / 12 / 16 bulk, letting it take several decently powerful neutral hits while hitting a Defense number that allows it to efficiently boost with Coil. Intimidate drops the foe's Attack, allowing Ekans to force switches and have an easier time setting up. The given bulk along with Intimidate allows Ekans to take hits like offensive Vullaby's Brave Bird and Ponyta's Flare Blitz. Shed Skin can also be run to get rid of annoying status ailments that can deter Ekans's sweeps. Berry Juice gives Ekans more longevity and can heal it to full HP after it takes a hit when sweeping. A Careful nature is used to increase Ekans's special bulk because Coil already boosts Defense.

Usage Tips
========

It is best for Ekans to be used as a mid- or late-game sweeper when its checks have been weakened or removed, such as fast, powerful attackers like Carvanha and bulky Steel- and Ground-types like Ferroseed and Mudbray. Ekans can be switched into neutral and resisted physical attacks thanks to Intimidate, but it should not switch into powerful attacks like Life Orb Pawniard's Knock Off and Magnemite's Thunderbolt. Be careful against Diglett, as it can trap Ekans and OHKO Ekans it with Earthquake, and it has a faster Sucker Punch. Also be wary against Pawniard, as if Ekans is running Intimidate, its switch into Pawniard will give it a +2 +1 Attack boost due to Defiant. Ekans can be switched into common Fighting-types like Mienfoo and Timburr thanks to Intimidate as well as into Fairy-types like Spritzee and Cottonee due to its Poison typing. It can then proceed to set up a Coil or use Glare on a predicted switch. Gunk Shot should be used conservatively due to its low PP until all Steel-types are removed, in which case it can use it liberally when sweeping. Earthquake should be used to hit Steel-types like Pawniard when sweeping. Sucker Punch should be used to KO Gastly and Abra as well as hit faster Pokemon before Ekans goes down. Glare can be used before setting up, as the paralysis will make it easier for Ekans to sweep.

Team Options
========

Fighting-types such as Mienfoo, Scraggy, and Timburr appreciate Ekans's ability to handle Fairy-types, while they can weaken Steel-types for Ekans in return. Other Steel-type answers such as Diglett, Ponyta, and Mudbray can further pressure Steel-types and allow Ekans to have an easier time sweeping late-game. Water-types like Staryu and Carvanha can defeat Ground-types for Ekans, while it can check Grass-types for them in return. Ekans values Wish support from the likes of Spritzee, as Ekans can be worn down over the course of the match by switching into moves with Intimidate. In return, Ekans can take the Poison-type moves aimed at Spritzee. Ekans functions much better with Sticky Web support, as it allows Ekans will be able to threaten a wider range of foes; good Sticky Web users are Spinarak and Surskit. Knock Off users like Pawniard and Alolan Grimer can get rid of Eviolite on bulkier foes, allowing Ekans to take them out more easily when sweeping.

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

Ekans can act as a specialized Choice Scarf user and revenge killer due to its great movepool and decent 24 Speed when fully invested. This set would have Gunk Shot and Earthquake and would utilize coverage options like Seed Bomb, Sucker Punch, and Aqua Tail depending on team needs and what Ekans needs to revenge kill. Ekans can revenge kill Gastly, Abra, all Dragon Dance sweepers at +1, and common Shell Smash users like Tirtouga with a Choice Scarf and specific coverage moves. However, Ekans doesn't appreciate being locked into a move, and it lacks power without Coil boosts. Ekans can utilize a defensive support set due to its access to both Glare and Toxic along with interesting options like Haze, Acid Spray, Gastro Acid, Disable, and Infestation. However, this set faces extremely heavy competition from Mareanie, Foongus, and Koffing, leading it to be inferior to the Coil set. Aqua Tail hits Ground-types like Mudbray and Hippopotas harder than Gunk Shot and can be used to deal with Archen as well. Toxic can be run on the Coil set to cripple defensive switch-ins to Ekans that can tank its attacking moves, such as Spritzee, Munchlax, Archen, and Vullaby. However, Ekans more often than not won't have room for the move. Furthermore, Toxic damage takes a while to rack up due to Pokemon in LC having low health. Ekans can threaten Abra and Gastly out with a potential Sucker Punch and surprise them with Pursuit, but since it Ekans can easily be KOed, running Pursuit is very unreliable. Also, Pawniard and Alolan Grimer are much better users of the move due to them having a STAB bonus on it. Ekans has access to decent special moves such as STAB Sludge Wave and Sludge Bomb, Dark Pulse, and Giga Drain; however, it's best for Ekans to stick to physical moves, as its Special Attack is very low. Rest + Shed Skin can be run to act as pseudo-reliable recovery, but the inconsistency of Shed Skin renders it risky to use.

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

**Ground-types**: Offensive Ground-types such as Diglett and offensive Mudbray can outspeed and KO Ekans with their super effective STAB moves. They can also revenge kill Ekans even when it is boosted. Defensive Ground-types like Hippopotas and defensive Mudbray can easily switch into Ekans because they resist Gunk Shot, take Ekans's other attacks, and KO it with their STAB moves.

**Abra and Gastly**: If Ekans is not running Sucker Punch, Abra can easily outspeed Ekans and KO it with Psychic, while Gastly can revenge kill Ekans once it is weakened. However, Ekans can OHKO both of them with Sucker Punch at +1 and can also outspeed and revenge kill them when holding a Choice Scarf.

**Rock-types**: Rock-types like Onix, Dwebble, and Tirtouga resist Gunk Shot and can force Ekans out. Archen is especially problematic, as it also is immune to Earthquake, making it a reliable answer to Ekans. It can also 2HKO Ekans with Earthquake, though it must be careful of Glare or Toxic. These Rock-types are hit hard by Earthquake, and some need to be careful of Ekans's rarer coverage moves like Aqua Tail and Seed Bomb.

**Steel-types**: Steel-types like Pawniard and Magnemite are immune to Ekans's Poison moves and can take at least one Earthquake due to decent bulk and Sturdy, respectively. Ferroseed only takes neutral damage from Earthquake and can easily come in on even a boosted Ekans and use it to set entry hazards.

**Physical Walls**: Slowpoke, Hippopotas, Foongus, and Munchlax can easily take Ekans's main attacking moves.

**Fast and Powerful Attackers**: Fast, powerful attackers like offensive Pawniard, Carvanha, and Duduo can revenge kill Ekans and stop it from sweeping. They do not like switching into Ekans's attacks in general, though.

 

[Fireflame]

Thanks. This is now done

 

[OP]

uploaded