Monotype Greninja [Dark]



[OVERVIEW]

Dark
========

Greninja is one of the best offensive Pokemon that Dark teams have access to thanks to its powerful ability in Protean and to its diverse coverage options such as Gunk Shot, Ice Beam, U-turn, and Extrasensory making it an unpredictable threat. Protean also comes in handy defensively; for example, Greninja can become Psychic-type by using Extrasensory to avoid getting KOed by Keldeo's Secret Sword. Greninja sits at a splendid Speed tier, outspeeding common threats such as Garchomp, Mega Diancie, and non-Choice Scarf Keldeo. When equipped with a Choice Scarf, Greninja functions as a Dark team's revenge killer, outspeeding threats such as Mega Lopunny, Tapu Koko, and other Choice Scarf users such as Tapu Bulu and Latios. Greninja has exploitable defensive stats, however, making it unable to take several hits and easy to revenge kill with priority attacks and faster attackers. Although Protean boosts attacks, Greninja is still held back by its average offensive stats, which means it's reliant on Life Orb to further boost its damage output. Greninja also lacks the room in its moveset to check every threat Dark teams might face.

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf (Dark)
move 1: Gunk Shot
move 2: U-turn
move 3: Ice Beam
move 4: Hydro Pump / Spikes
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Protean
nature: Naive
evs: 4 Atk / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

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

Gunk Shot is necessary for Greninja to check Fairy-types, and it making Greninja Poison-type has some use in avoiding Toxic and resisting Grass. U-turn helps maintain momentum and take advantage of forced switches such as Landorus fearing Ice Beam. Ice Beam lets Greninja hit annoying Flying-types such as Zapdos as well as Dragon- and Ground-types such as Hydreigon and Landorus. Hydro Pump targets threats such as Excadrill and Heatran, 2HKOes Klefki, and does slightly more damage than Gunk Shot to +1 Volcarona. Spikes is a great utility move, and with Greninja's offensive presence and coverage moves forcing so many switches, it's able to get set up, applying pressure on grounded Pokemon. Rock Slide is a reliable move for KOing threats that are really weak to it such as Mega Charizard Y and Volcarona.

Set Details
========

Maximum Speed EVs with a Naive nature and a Choice Scarf make Greninja as fast as possible, outspeeding threats such as Tapu Koko, Mega Lopunny, Choice Scarf users such as Tapu Bulu, Latios, Adamant Excadrill in sand, and Modest Kingdra in rain. A Naive nature alongside 4 Attack EVs keeps Greninja from weakening Gunk Shot. 252 Special Attack EVs maximizes Greninja's damage output. Protean is the ability of choice to change Greninja's typing and gain STAB from it.

Usage Tips
========

Choice Scarf Greninja takes on the role of a revenge killer, outspeeding and taking on threats such as Tapu Koko, Mega Lopunny, and slower Choice Scarf users. Greninja can also utilize its high Speed to clean late-game, and it can be an effective lead thanks to U-turn and how many Pokemon it forces out. Greninja should try setting up Spikes early-game to begin putting pressure on teams. It needs to come in safely from a slow U-turn user such as Mandibuzz or a fainted teammate because of its frailty. Make sure to take advantage of U-turn so Greninja can escape any possible disadvantages it may encounter. Be careful about what Greninja is locked into, since getting forced out or becoming setup fodder for Pokemon like Terrakion is a momentum drain; it's best to make sure that all of Greninja's checks and counters are gone or weakened so it can sweep late-game. Be aware that even with Protean, Greninja doesn't hit as hard with Choice Scarf; bulky threats will be able to switch in comfortably, so avoid having Greninja take them on. Greninja should avoid paralysis at all costs, as its role as a revenge killer will be ruined.

Team Options
========

Mega Tyranitar is an excellent teammate, as it can help wallbreak early- or mid-game and dismantle teams for Greninja to clean late-game. Tyranitar and Krookodile provide Stealth Rock support for Greninja to KO threats more easily. Tyranitar can also paralyze foes with Thunder Wave and tank special attacks, whereas Krookodile can switch into Electric-type moves, supply utility with Knock Off, and revenge kill threats thanks to its Focus Sash. Intimidate from Krookodile can also assist in softening physical attacks for Greninja. Other Knock Off users such as Mega Sableye, Bisharp, and Alolan Muk cripple item-reliant Pokemon, especially Eviolite and Leftovers users such as Porygon2 and Zapdos. Mega Sableye can block status moves, while Bisharp and Alolan Muk can be additional checks to Fairy-types. Mandibuzz can switch into physical attackers for Greninja and punish Swords Dance and Dragon Dance sweepers such as Mega Scizor and Dragonite with Foul Play. Since Greninja will be pivioting out often with U-turn, it also benefits from Mandibuzz's Defog. Hydreigon can wallbreak for Greninja thanks to Choice Specs and switch into Ground-type attacks. Mega Sharpedo and Greninja can help one another clean up late-game, and Mega Sharpedo can use Psychic Fangs to pressure Fighting-types. Cacturne is a great check to problematic Water-types such as Suicune and Z-Belly Drum Azumarill.

[SET]
name: Offensive
move 1: Hydro Pump
move 2: Ice Beam
move 3: Gunk Shot
move 4: Extrasensory
item: Life Orb
ability: Protean
nature: Naive
evs: 4 Atk / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

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

Hydro Pump is Greninja's strongest move for hitting threats such as Mega Diancie, Heatran, and Excadrill. Ice Beam is great for taking care of Dragon- and Flying-types such as Mega Altaria, Gliscor, and Zapdos. Gunk Shot gives Greninja coverage for Fairy-types such as Clefable, notably OHKOing Azumarill. Extrasensory hits Fighting- and Poison-types that threaten Dark teams such as Keldeo, Mega Venusaur, and Toxapex.

Set Details
========

Maximum Speed EVs with a Naive nature allow Greninja to be as fast as possible, outspeeding anything under base 122 Speed with the exception of Choice Scarf users. A Naive nature also keeps Gunk Shot from being weakened. Maximum Special Attack investment grants Greninja more attacking power. Protean is necessary for Greninja to have STAB on all of its attacks. Greninja can't do a lot of damage without a boosting item, so Life Orb is the item of choice.

Usage Tips
========

Because Greninja is generally frail, it should switch in for free or on weak, resisted attacks. It can also attempt to come in from a double switch. Greninja's terrifying coverage and and decent offensive stats are just enough for it to force switches, so capitalize on that by immediately switching to a teammate that's able to take on the opposing team's check to Greninja. Make sure to save Greninja for fast threats that it'll be able to revenge kill such as Life Orb Latios and Gengar. It's always best to keep Greninja away from revenge killers and Choice Scarf users because Greninja is often needed in later parts of the match thanks to its wide coverage. Remember that Protean can be used to your defensive advantage; for example, Greninja will resist Moonblast after using Gunk Shot. Make sure to keep Greninja away from paralysis, burns, and poison, which will ruin its Speed or longevity.

Team Options
========

Greninja doesn't appreciate being worn down by entry hazards, so Mega Sableye and Mandibuzz make for good partners. Mega Sableye also offers protection from Thunder Wave, Toxic, Knock Off, and Fighting-type attacks. Mandibuzz, on the other hand, can get Greninja in safely with its slow U-turn and tank attacks with its physical bulk. Mega Tyranitar can assist Greninja in pressuring teams. With Greninja taking on physically defensive threats, Mega Tyranitar gets rid of special walls such as Chansey. Specially defensive Tyranitar can switch into special attacks for Greninja and provide Thunder Wave support so Greninja can outspeed even Choice Scarf users. Mega Sharpedo can help clean up late-game after Greninja has dealt enough damage to the opposing team. Hydreigon and Greninja together are great in at pressuring teams. Hydreigon can specifically take out Steel-types such as Celesteela and Ferrothorn. Choice Scarf Hydreigon is also a valuable teammate, revenge killing threats Greninja has weakened. Bisharp and Alolan Muk help Greninja take on annoying Fairy-types such as Tapu Bulu and Azumarill, and both can provide Knock Off support. Bisharp specifically can check Ice-types, while Alolan Muk can switch into special attacks. Krookodile is another good Stealth Rock and Knock Off user that is also able to check Electric-types for Greninja. Cacturne can check bulky Water-types like Suicune and Z-Belly Drum Azumarill, which would otherwise give Greninja trouble.

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

Dark
--------
Dark Pulse allows Greninja to hit Ghost- and Psychic-types such as Alolan Marowak, Mew, and Slowbro and has a chance to flinch. Taunt can be used to prevent any threat from setting up entry hazards or boosting, and it should be used with Spikes or Toxic Spikes. Because Greninja usually has some trouble against Water-types, Grass Knot would be a decent way of checking them. Hidden Power Fire gives Greninja a reliable way of removing Mega Scizor and Ferrothorn. Low Kick allows Greninja to easily deal with threats such as Ferrothorn and Tyranitar. However, these coverage moves aren't as great as those in the main sets because Hydreigon, Bisharp, and Alolan Muk usually carry Dark-type attacks. Hydreigon specifically uses Fire Blast and Focus Blast, which makes Greninja's coverage easier to choose.

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

Dark
--------

**Chansey**: Chansey completely walls all of Greninja's attacks and can stall it out with Toxic + Soft-Boiled.

**Special Walls**: Special walls such as Celesteela and Alolan Muk can take repeated attacks. Celesteela can stall out Greninja with Leech Seed, while Alolan Muk can cripple Greninja with Knock Off and poison it with Poison Touch. Greninja also takes a great deal of damage from Pursuit after a change in type.

**Bulky Water-types**: Bulky Water-types such as Gastrodon and Suicune can easily tank Greninja's attacks. Gastrodon can use Toxic on Greninja, while Suicune can set up Calm Mind on it.

**Revenge Killers**: Without a Choice Scarf, Greninja is outsped and KOed by revenge killers such as Tapu Koko, Mega Lopunny, and Choice Scarf users such as Tapu Bulu and Terrakion.

**Priority**: With Greninja's low defenses and its variable typing due to Protean, it's easily revenge killed by Mach Punch Breloom, Extreme Speed Dragonite, and Bullet Punch Mega Scizor.

**Status and Entry Hazards**: Greninja cannot afford to be inflicted with status, as paralysis completely ruins its impressive Speed and poison wears it down more quickly. Entry hazards are also problematic in limiting Greninja's opportunities to switch in and making it easier to revenge kill.
 
Last edited:

iLlama

Nothing personal, I protect my people
[OVERVIEW]
* Coupled with its Protean ability and coverage moves, Greninja displays usable offensive stats. While not anything great, Protean recoups, hitting harder with its super effective attacks and being able to fulfill roles on both offensive and balanced Dark teams.
-This point is a tad awkward with both explaining Greninja's stats and assuming it will be hitting super effective attacks. Protean is the saving grace that makes Greninja a notable threat in the first place and you already explained that in the first point. Remove this.

Team Options
========
* Tyranitar (non-Mega)
* Cacturne - Counteracts one of Greninja's more prominent checks in Bulky Water-types.

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf (Dark)
move 1: Extrasensory
move 2: Ice Beam
move 3: Gunk Shot
move 4: U-turn
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Protean
nature: Naive
evs: 4 Atk / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
* U-turn can be used instead of Spikes in case the team lacks a pivot. It helps maintain momentum and Greninja can use that as an opportunity to take advantage of forced switches. Take for example, Landorus on Flying teams wouldn't want to stay in on an Ice Beam from Greninja, so Celesteela or Mantine can switch in and tank the attack.
- Spikes are never mentioned in the main set so there's no need for them to be mentioned here.

Set Details
========

* Maximum Speed EVs with a Naive nature helps Greninja be fast as possible outspeeding threats such as Mega Pinsir and Garchomp.
* A Choice Scarf is needed for Greninja to outspeed important threats such as Tapu Koko, Mega Lopunny, and Choice Scarf users such as Tapu Bulu and Latios. It can also outspeed Adamant Sand Rush Excadrill in sand and Modest Kingdra in rain.
- You can probably mesh the points about Max Speed and Choice Scarf together. This is Choice Scarf Greninja so Mega Pinsir and Garchomp aren't the best examples as well.

Team Options
========
* Cacturne - Counteracts one of Greninja's more prominent checks in Bulky Water-types.

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

**Status and Hazards**:

Easy fixes. Looks good. QC 1/3
oie_rounded_corners (1).gif
 
Choice Scarf is undoubtedly the best set, so that should be first.

Overview:
- Discuss Choice Scarf Greninja as a revenge killer, which is the main role it will play on Dark teams.

Choice Scarf:
Set:
[SET]
name: Choice Scarf (Dark)
move 1: Gunk Shot
move 2: U-turn
move 3: Ice Beam
move 4: Hydro Pump / Spikes
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Protean
nature: Naive
evs: 4 Atk / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

Extrasensory is kinda useless seeing as it can't even OHKO almost any of the relevant Fighting-types. Hydro Pump for a powerful STAB attack would be a lot better. Spikes utility of course is just fantastic. Especially against Fairy.

Moves:
- Can discuss Extrasensory but last in this section.
- Hydro Pump's primary targets are Pokemon that don't take much at all from the other attacks like Klefki, which is 2HKOed if it switches in twice. Also it does slightly more than Gunk Shot to +1 Volcarona.
- Discuss Spikes
- Mention Rock Slide to hit Volcarona and Mega Charizard Y.

Usage Tips:
- Talk about using it as a lead

Team Options:
- The Poison absorb thing doesn't really matter to Greninja.
- The point of Cacturne is to check Z-Belly Drum Azumarill and Suicune, so you should probably specify that.

Offensive:
Set Details:
- Expert Belt should be here.

Usage Tips:
- Remove the below line. It's not a useful tip.
* Make sure to save Greninja for fast threats that it'll be able to revenge kill such as Latios and Gengar.

Team Options:
- Talk about other Choice Scarf users, since Greninja isn't using one.

Other Options:
- Explain why these coverage options tend to be worse than the ones in the set.
- Expert Belt should be moved to Offensive Set Details.
- Add Low Kick for Ferrothorn, other Tyranitar, etc.

Checks and Counters:
It says Type One right now
- Talk about Pursuit from Alolan Muk
- Mantine hates Life Orb-boosted Gunk Shot btw. And Suicune really doesn't want to get poisoned by it. Something like Gastrodon would be a good example.

QC 2/3
 

GP 1/2
remove add comments

[OVERVIEW]

Type One Dark
========

Greninja is one of the best offensive Pokemon that Dark teams have access to thanks to its powerful ability in Protean. (per) and to its diverse coverage options Protean grants Greninja STAB in every attack it uses and works perfectly with a variety of moves it has, making Greninja potent threat towards opposing types, being able to fulfill roles in offensive and balanced Dark teams. This is backed up by its very diverse coverage movepool (eliminating unnecessary explanations and redundancy) such as Gunk Shot, Ice Beam, U-turn, and Extrasensory, (comma) making it an unpredictable ninja frog threat. (just call it Greninja, stuff like this casualizes tone) Additionally, Greninja's Protean ability also comes in handy defensively; for example, Greninja can become Psychic-type by using Extrasensory to avoid getting KOed by Keldeo's Secret Sword. in flipping matches and with the type change, Greninja could even have a chance to survive against threats in certain situations. For example, Greninja changes typing to Psychic after using Extrasensory on Keldeo, in return, Keldeo attempts to KO Greninja with Secret Sword but fails to as Greninja resists it. (not sure what you mean by "flipping matches") Greninja sits at a splendid Speed tier, outspeeding common threats such as Garchomp, Mega Diancie, and non Choice Scarf variants of non-Choice Scarf Keldeo. When equipped with a Choice Scarf, Greninja functions as a Dark team's revenge killer, (comma) outspeeding threats such as Mega Lopunny, (comma) Tapu Koko, and Tapu Koko and other Choice Scarf users such as Tapu Bulu and Latios. Greninja has exploitable defensive stats, however, making it being unable to take several hits and is easy to be revenge killed by priority attacks and faster threats revenge kill with priority attacks and faster attackers. Although Protean boosts Greninja's attacks, it Greninja is still held back by its average offensive stats, which means it's reliant on Life Orb to further boost its damage output. Greninja is also hindered having four moveslots and can't also lacks the room in its moveset to check every threat Dark teams are facing might face.

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf (Dark)
move 1: Gunk Shot
move 2: U-turn
move 3: Ice Beam
move 4: Hydro Pump / Spikes
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Protean
nature: Naive
evs: 4 Atk / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

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

Gunk Shot is necessary for Greninja to check Fairy-types, (comma) and it making Greninja Poison-type has some use in avoiding Toxic and resisting Grass alongside having some use with Protean to avoid Toxic and resist Grass-type attacks. U-turn helps maintain momentum and Greninja can use that as an opportunity to take advantage of forced switches such as Landorus fearing Ice Beam. Take for example, Landorus on Flying teams wouldn't want to stay in on an Ice Beam from Greninja, so Celesteela or Mantine can switch in and tank the attack. Ice Beam helps lets Greninja hit annoying Flying-types such as Zapdos while hitting as well as Dragon- and Ground-types such as Hydreigon and Landorus. Hydro Pump can also be used to targets threats such as Excadrill and Heatran. It also 2HKOes Klefki and does slightly more damage than Gunk Shot to +1 Volcarona at +1 Quiver Dance. Spikes is a great utility move, (comma) and with Greninja's offensive presence and coverage moves forcing so many switches, it's able to get set up a layer, applying pressure on grounded Pokemon. Rock Slide is also a reliable move in for KOing threats that are really weak to it such as Mega Charizard Y and Volcarona.

Set Details
========

Maximum Speed EVs with a Naive nature and a Choice Scarf helps make Greninja be as fast as possible, (comma) outspeeding threats such as Tapu Koko, Mega Lopunny, Choice Scarf users such as Tapi Bulu and Latios, and Adamant Sand Rush Excadrill in sand, (comma) and Modest Kingdra in rain. A Naive nature alongside 4 Attack EVs keeps Greninja from losing any Attack stat damage due to Gunk Shot being a physical move weakening Gunk Shot. 252 Special Attack EVs maximizes Greninja's damage output. Protean is the ability of choice to change Greninja's typing and gain STAB boost from it.

Usage Tips
========

With a Choice Scarf Greninja takes on the role as of a revenge killer, outspeeding and taking on threats such as Tapu Koko, (comma) and Mega Lopunny, alongside Choice Scarf users such as Latios and Tapu Bulu and slower Choice Scarf users. Greninja can also utilize its high Speed to clean late-game, and it can be an effective lead thanks to U-turn and how many Pokemon it forces out. Choice Scarf as a late-game sweeper. Greninja can also be utilized as a lead because of U-turn, being able to force out the opposing Pokemon while providing momentum. Greninja should look for try setting up Spikes early-game to begin putting pressure on teams. Greninja still It needs to come in safely from a slow U-turn user such as Mandibuzz or a fainted teammate because Greninja still suffers the flaw of tanking attacks effectively of its frailty. Make sure to take advantage of U-turn so Greninja can escape any possible disadvantages it may encounter. With U-turn and Choice Scarf under its possession, Greninja can be used as a lead to scout the foe in case a defensive wall or offensive counter switches in to keep up momentum. Be careful about what Greninja is locked into, (comma) since getting forced out or becoming setup fodder for Pokemon like Terrakion is a momentum drain; because the team's momentum will drain as Greninja will be forced to switch out or some Pokemon such as Terrakion can use it as setup fodder, so it's best to make sure that all of its Greninja's checks and counters are gone or weakened so it can sweep late-game. Be aware that even with Protean, Greninja doesn't hit as hard with Choice Scarf; (semi) bulky and bulkier threats will be able to switch in comfortably, so avoid having Greninja take them on. It's obvious that Greninja should avoid paralysis at all costs, as its role as a revenge killer is will be ruined.

Team Options
========

Mega Tyranitar is an excellent teammate, as both can apply pressure on opposing teams. With Mega Tyranitar utilizing Dragon Dance it can help wallbreak early- or mid-game. (per) and dismantle teams while Greninja can sweep up for Greninja to clean late-game. Tyranitar and Krookodile provide Stealth Rock support for Greninja to KO threats easier more easily. Tyranitar can also paralyze foes with Thunder Wave and tank special attacks, whereas Krookodile can switch into Electric-type moves, (comma) and supply utility with Knock Off, (comma) to remove items and revenge kill threats with Focus Sash. Intimidate from Krookodile can also assist in softening physical attacks for Greninja. Other Knock Off users such as Mega Sableye, Bisharp, and Alolan Muk can all cripple item-reliant Pokemon, especially Eviolite and Leftover holders such as Porygon2 and Zapdos. Mega Sableye can block status moves, while Bisharp and Alolan Muk can check Fairy-types with Greninja be additional checks to Fairy-types. Mandibuzz can switch into physical attackers for Greninja and punish Swords Dance and Dragon Dance sweepers such as Mega Scizor and Dragonite with Foul Play. Since Greninja will also be pivioting out often with U-turn, Mandibuzz can apply Defog support in removing entry hazards to free up more opportunities for Greninja it also benefits from Mandibuzz's Defog. Hydreigon and Greninja together can apply pressure on teams. Hydreigon can help wallbreak for Greninja thanks to Choice Specs and switch into Ground-type attacks due to Levitate. Mega Sharpedo is also another good pair with Greninja as both partners can support one another in cleaning up late-game. Mega Sharpedo and Greninja can also pressure Fighting-types with Psychic Fangs and Extrasensory, respectively. Mega Sharpedo and Greninja can help one another clean up late-game and use their Psychic-type attacks to pressure Fighting-types. Cacturne is a great check against to problematic Water-types such as Z-Belly Drum Azumarill and Suicune for Greninja.

[SET]
name: Offensive
move 1: Hydro Pump
move 2: Ice Beam
move 3: Gunk Shot
move 4: Extrasensory
item: Life Orb
ability: Protean
nature: Naive
evs: 4 Atk / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

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

Hydro Pump is Greninja's strongest move in for hitting threats such as Mega Diancie, Heatran, and Excadrill. Ice Beam is great for taking care of Dragon- and Flying-types such as Mega Altaria, Gliscor, and Zapdos. Gunk Shot gives Greninja coverage in hitting for Fairy-types such as Clefable, while being able to OHKO notably OHKOing Azumarill. Extrasensory can be used to hits Fighting- and Poison-types that would threaten Dark teams such as Keldeo, Mega Venusaur, and Toxapex.

Set Details
========

Maximum Speed EVs with a Naive nature allows Greninja to be as fast as possible, outspeeding anything under base 122 Speed with the exception of Choice Scarf users. Since Naive nature is being used, it A Naive nature also keeps Gunk Shot from being weakened because of it being a physical attack. 252 Special Attack investment grants Greninja more attacking power. Protean is necessary for Greninja to change typing after any move it uses, while gaining a boost in its STAB attacks have STAB on all of its attacks. Greninja can't do a lot of damage without a boosting item, (comma) so Life Orb is the item of choice to further increase its damage output and having a better chance to KO threats.

Usage Tips
========

Because Greninja is generally frail, it should switch in for free or on weak, resisted attacks. shouldn't be switching in on attacks other than weak-resisted ones, switching in safely from a slow U-turn, or from a fainted teammate. Greninja It can also attempt to come in from a double switch prediction. With Greninja's terrifying coverage and and decent offensive stats, (comma) it's are just enough for it to cause forced force switches, so utilize that as an advantage to double switch into capitalize on that by immediately switching to a teammate that's able to take on the opposing team's check to Greninja. Make sure to save Greninja for fast threats that it'll be able to revenge kill such as Life Orb Latios and Gengar. It's always best to keep Greninja away from opposing revenge killers or and Choice Scarf users because Greninja is definitely often needed in later parts of the match thanks to its wide range in coverage options. Utilize Protean to your advantage, as it can be used defensively in resisting an attack. One example being Greninja can avoid taking a lot of damage from Clefable's Moonblast after using Gunk Shot. Remember that Protean can be used to your defensive advantage; for example, Greninja will resist Moonblast after using Gunk Shot. Make sure to keep Greninja away from status such as paralysis, burns, and poison., (comma) which will ruin its Speed or longevity. Paralysis will ruin its Speed, whereas burns and poison shorten its longevity faster in conjunction with Life Orb.

Team Options
========

Greninja doesn't appreciate being worn down by entry hazards, (comma) so Mega Sableye and Mandibuzz make for good partners. Mega Sableye also offers protection from Thunder Wave, Toxic, Knock Off, and Fighting-type attacks. can keep entry hazards off the field so Greninja can switch in and out freely thanks to Magic Bounce. As a bonus, it can bounce back expected status moves such as Thunder Wave and Toxic. It can also switch into and sponge Knock Offs, keeping Greninja's Life Orb in tact and with its Ghost typing, Mega Sableye switches to Fighting-type attacks such as Mach Punch and Secret Sword. Mandibuzz, (comma) on the other hand, (comma) can get Greninja in safely with its slow U-turn and tank attacks with its physical bulk. provide a slow U-turn on bringing Greninja in safely and clear the field of entry hazards with Defog. With its physical bulk, Mandibuzz can also tank attacks for Greninja. Mega Tyranitar can flip matches and assist Greninja in pressuring teams. With Greninja taking on physically defensive threats, Mega Tyranitar on the other hand can get gets rid of special walls such as Chansey. Specially defensive Tyranitar can switch into special attacks for Greninja utilizing a specially defensive set and provide Thunder Wave support in outspeeding so Greninja can outspeed even Choice Scarf users. Mega Sharpedo can help clean up threats late-game after Greninja has dealt enough damage to the opposing team. Hydreigon and Greninja together are great in at pressuring teams. Hydreigon can specifically take out Steel-types such as Celesteela and Ferrothorn. Choice Scarf Hydreigon is also a valuable teammate in utilizing a Choice Scarf, revenge killing threats Greninja has weakened. Bisharp and Alolan Muk are great partners in helping help Greninja take on annoying Fairy-types such as Tapu Bulu and Azumarill, (comma) and both can provide Knock Off support. Bisharp specifically can check Ice-types, while Alolan Muk can switch into special attacks. Krookodile is also another good Stealth Rock and Knock Off user, (comma) while also being that is also able to check Electric-types for Greninja. Cacturne can check bulky Water-types like Z-Belly Drum Azumarill and Suicune, which would otherwise give Greninja trouble with its Grass-type attacks and absorbing Water-type moves with Water Absorb, making it a good check against Z-Belly Drum Azumarill and Suicune.

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

Dark
--------
Dark Pulse allows Greninja to hit Ghost- and Psychic-types such as Alolan Marowak, Mew, and Slowbro and also has a chance to flinch. Taunt can also be used to prevent any threat from setting up entry hazards or boosting, (comma) and it should be used with Spikes or Toxic Spikes. Because Greninja usually has some trouble against Water-types, Grass Knot would be a decent way of checking them along with Seismitoad. Hidden Power Fire helps gives Greninja have a reliable way of removing Mega Scizor and Ferrothorn off the field. Low Kick allows Greninja to easily deal with threats such as Ferrothorn and Tyranitar. However, these coverage moves listed above aren't as great as other attacks in the above those in the main sets because Hydreigon, Bisharp, and Alolan Muk usually carry Dark-type attacks. Hydreigon specifically uses Fire Blast and Focus Blast, which opens more coverage moves for Greninja to run makes Greninja's coverage easier to choose.

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

Dark
--------

**Chansey**: Chansey completely walls all of Greninja's attacks and can proceed to stall it out with Toxic + Soft-Boiled.

**Special Walls**: Special walls such as Celesteela and Alolan Muk can take repeated attacks. Celesteela can stall out Greninja with Leech Seed, (comma) while Alolan Muk can cripple Greninja with Knock Off and poison it from Poison Touch. Greninja would also takes a great deal of damage from Pursuit after a change in type.

**Bulky Water-types**: Bulky Water-types such as Gastrodon and Suicune can easily tank Greninja's attacks. Gastrodon can use Toxic on Greninja, (comma) while Suicune can set up Calm Mind on it.

**Revenge Killers**: Revenge killers such as Tapu Koko and Mega Lopunny and Choice Scarf users such as Tapu Bulu and Terrakion can outspeed Greninja given it's not Choice Scarf and KO it with their STAB attacks. Without a Choice Scarf, Greninja is outsped and KOed by revenge killers such as Tapu Koko, Mega Lopunny, and Choice Scarf users such as Tapu Bulu and Terrakion.

**Priority**: With Greninja's frail low defenses and its typing after Protean activates, it's easily revenge killed by Mach Punch Breloom, Extreme Speed Dragonite, and Bullet Punch Mega Scizor.

**Status and Hazards**: Greninja cannot afford to be inflicted by with status, (comma) as paralysis completely ruins Greninja's its impressive speed and poison wears it down faster. Entry hazards are also problematic in limiting Greninja's opportunities to switch in and making it easier to revenge kill.
 

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moist and crusty
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[OVERVIEW]

Dark
========


Greninja is one of the best offensive Pokemon that Dark teams have access to thanks to its powerful ability in Protean and to its diverse coverage options such as Gunk Shot, Ice Beam, U-turn, and Extrasensory making it an unpredictable threat. Protean also comes in handy defensively; for example, Greninja can become Psychic-type by using Extrasensory to avoid getting KOed by Keldeo's Secret Sword. Greninja sits at a splendid Speed tier, outspeeding common threats such as Garchomp, Mega Diancie, and non-Choice Scarf Keldeo. When equipped with a Choice Scarf, Greninja functions as a Dark team's revenge killer, outspeeding threats such as Mega Lopunny, Tapu Koko, and other Choice Scarf users such as Tapu Bulu and Latios. Greninja has exploitable defensive stats, however, making it unable to take several hits and easy to revenge kill with priority attacks and faster attackers. Although Protean boosts attacks, Greninja is still held back by its average offensive stats, which means it's reliant on Life Orb to further boost its damage output. Greninja also lacks the room in its moveset to check every threat Dark teams might face.

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf (Dark)
move 1: Gunk Shot
move 2: U-turn
move 3: Ice Beam
move 4: Hydro Pump / Spikes
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Protean
nature: Naive
evs: 4 Atk / 252 SpA / 252 Spe


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


Gunk Shot is necessary for Greninja to check Fairy-types, and it making Greninja Poison-type has some use in avoiding Toxic and resisting Grass. U-turn helps maintain momentum and take advantage of forced switches such as Landorus fearing Ice Beam. Ice Beam lets Greninja hit annoying Flying-types such as Zapdos as well as Dragon- and Ground-types such as Hydreigon and Landorus. Hydro Pump targets threats such as Excadrill and Heatran. It also 2HKOes Klefki and Heatran, 2HKOes Klefki, and does slightly more damage than Gunk Shot to +1 Volcarona. Spikes is a great utility move, and with Greninja's offensive presence and coverage moves forcing so many switches, it's able to get set up, applying pressure on grounded Pokemon. Rock Slide is a reliable move for KOing threats that are really weak to it such as Mega Charizard Y and Volcarona.

Set Details
========


Maximum Speed EVs with a Naive nature and a Choice Scarf make Greninja as fast as possible, outspeeding threats such as Tapu Koko, Mega Lopunny, Choice Scarf users such as Tapi Bulu and Latios Tapu Bulu, Latios, Adamant Excadrill in sand, and Modest Kingdra in rain. A Naive nature alongside 4 Attack EVs keeps Greninja from weakening Gunk Shot. 252 Special Attack EVs maximizes Greninja's damage output. Protean is the ability of choice to change Greninja's typing and gain STAB from it.

Usage Tips
========


Choice Scarf Greninja takes on the role of a revenge killer, outspeeding and taking on threats such as Tapu Koko, Mega Lopunny, and slower Choice Scarf users. Greninja can also utilize its high Speed to clean late-game, and it can be an effective lead thanks to U-turn and how many Pokemon it forces out. Greninja should try setting up Spikes early-game to begin putting pressure on teams. It needs to come in safely from a slow U-turn user such as Mandibuzz or a fainted teammate because of its frailty. Make sure to take advantage of U-turn so Greninja can escape any possible disadvantages it may encounter. Be careful about what Greninja is locked into, since getting forced out or becoming setup fodder for Pokemon like Terrakion is a momentum drain; it's best to make sure that all of Greninja's checks and counters are gone or weakened so it can sweep late-game. Be aware that even with Protean, Greninja doesn't hit as hard with Choice Scarf; bulky threats will be able to switch in comfortably, so avoid having Greninja take them on. Greninja should avoid paralysis at all costs, as its role as a revenge killer will be ruined.

Team Options
========


Mega Tyranitar is an excellent teammate, as it can help wallbreak early- or mid-game and dismantle teams for Greninja to clean late-game. Tyranitar and Krookodile provide Stealth Rock support for Greninja to KO threats more easily. Tyranitar can also paralyze foes with Thunder Wave and tank special attacks, whereas Krookodile can switch into Electric-type moves, supply utility with Knock Off, and revenge kill threats with thanks to its Focus Sash. Intimidate from Krookodile can also assist in softening physical attacks for Greninja. Other Knock Off users such as Mega Sableye, Bisharp, and Alolan Muk cripple item-reliant Pokemon, especially Eviolite and Leftover holders Leftovers users such as Porygon2 and Zapdos. Mega Sableye can block status moves, while Bisharp and Alolan Muk can be additional checks to Fairy-types. Mandibuzz can switch into physical attackers for Greninja and punish Swords Dance and Dragon Dance sweepers such as Mega Scizor and Dragonite with Foul Play. Since Greninja will be pivioting out often with U-turn, it also benefits from Mandibuzz's Defog. Hydreigon can wallbreak for Greninja thanks to Choice Specs and switch into Ground-type attacks Mega attacks. Mega Sharpedo and Greninja can help one another clean up late-game and use their Psychic-type attacks late-game, and Mega Sharpedo can use Psychic Fangs to pressure Fighting-types. Cacturne is a great check to problematic Water-types such as Suicune and Z-Belly Drum Azumarill and Suicune.

[SET]
name: Offensive
move 1: Hydro Pump
move 2: Ice Beam
move 3: Gunk Shot
move 4: Extrasensory
item: Life Orb
ability: Protean
nature: Naive
evs: 4 Atk / 252 SpA / 252 Spe


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


Hydro Pump is Greninja's strongest move for hitting threats such as Mega Diancie, Heatran, and Excadrill. Ice Beam is great for taking care of Dragon- and Flying-types such as Mega Altaria, Gliscor, and Zapdos. Gunk Shot gives Greninja coverage for Fairy-types such as Clefable, notably OHKOing Azumarill. Extrasensory hits Fighting- and Poison-types that threaten Dark teams such as Keldeo, Mega Venusaur, and Toxapex.

Set Details
========


Maximum Speed EVs with a Naive nature allows allow Greninja to be as fast as possible, outspeeding anything under base 122 Speed with the exception of Choice Scarf users. A Naive nature also keeps Gunk Shot from being weakened. 252 Maximum Special Attack investment grants Greninja more attacking power. Protean is necessary for Greninja to have STAB on all of its attacks. Greninja can't do a lot of damage without a boosting item, so Life Orb is the item of choice.

Usage Tips
========


Because Greninja is generally frail, it should switch in for free or on weak, resisted attacks. It can also attempt to come in from a double switch. Greninja's terrifying coverage and and decent offensive stats are just enough for it to force switches, so capitalize on that by immediately switching to a teammate that's able to take on the opposing team's check to Greninja. Make sure to save Greninja for fast threats that it'll be able to revenge kill such as Life Orb Latios and Gengar. It's always best to keep Greninja away from revenge killers and Choice Scarf users because Greninja is often needed in later parts of the match thanks to its wide coverage. Remember that Protean can be used to your defensive advantage; for example, Greninja will resist Moonblast after using Gunk Shot. Make sure to keep Greninja away from paralysis, burns, and poison., (comma) which poison, which will ruin its Speed or longevity.

Team Options
========


Greninja doesn't appreciate being worn down by entry hazards, so Mega Sableye and Mandibuzz make for good partners. Mega Sableye also offers protection from Thunder Wave, Toxic, Knock Off, and Fighting-type attacks. Mandibuzz, (comma) on Mandibuzz, on the other hand, can get Greninja in safely with its slow U-turn and tank attacks with its physical bulk. Mega Tyranitar can assist Greninja in pressuring teams. With Greninja taking on physically defensive threats, Mega Tyranitar gets rid of special walls such as Chansey. Specially defensive Tyranitar can switch into special attacks for Greninja and provide Thunder Wave support so Greninja can outspeed even Choice Scarf users. Mega Sharpedo can help clean up late-game after Greninja has dealt enough damage to the opposing team. Hydreigon and Greninja together are great in at pressuring teams. Hydreigon can specifically take out Steel-types such as Celesteela and Ferrothorn. Choice Scarf Hydreigon is also a valuable teammate, revenge killing threats Greninja has weakened. Bisharp and Alolan Muk help Greninja take on annoying Fairy-types such as Tapu Bulu and Azumarill, and both can provide Knock Off support. Bisharp specifically can check Ice-types, while Alolan Muk can switch into special attacks. Krookodile is also another good Stealth Rock and Knock Off user that is also able to check Electric-types for Greninja. Cacturne can check bulky Water-types like Suicune and Z-Belly Drum Azumarill and Suicune, which would otherwise give Greninja trouble.

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


Dark
--------
Dark Pulse allows Greninja to hit Ghost- and Psychic-types such as Alolan Marowak, Mew, and Slowbro and has a chance to flinch. Taunt can be used to prevent any threat from setting up entry hazards or boosting, and it should be used with Spikes or Toxic Spikes. Because Greninja usually has some trouble against Water-types, Grass Knot would be a decent way of checking them. Hidden Power Fire gives Greninja a reliable way of removing Mega Scizor and Ferrothorn. Low Kick allows Greninja to easily deal with threats such as Ferrothorn and Tyranitar. However, these coverage moves aren't as great as those in the main sets because Hydreigon, Bisharp, and Alolan Muk usually carry Dark-type attacks. Hydreigon specifically uses Fire Blast and Focus Blast, which makes Greninja's coverage easier to choose.


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


Dark
--------


**Chansey**: Chansey completely walls all of Greninja's attacks and can stall it out with Toxic + Soft-Boiled.

**Special Walls**: Special walls such as Celesteela and Alolan Muk can take repeated attacks. Celesteela can stall out Greninja with Leech Seed, while Alolan Muk can cripple Greninja with Knock Off and poison it from with Poison Touch. Greninja also takes a great deal of damage from Pursuit after a change in type.

**Bulky Water-types**: Bulky Water-types such as Gastrodon and Suicune can easily tank Greninja's attacks. Gastrodon can use Toxic on Greninja, while Suicune can set up Calm Mind on it.

**Revenge Killers**: Without a Choice Scarf, Greninja is outsped and KOed by revenge killers such as Tapu Koko, Mega Lopunny, and Choice Scarf users such as Tapu Bulu and Terrakion.

**Priority**: With Greninja's low defenses and its typing after Protean activates variable typing due to Protean, it's easily revenge killed by Mach Punch Breloom, Extreme Speed Dragonite, and Bullet Punch Mega Scizor.

**Status and Entry Hazards**: Greninja cannot afford to be inflicted with status, as paralysis completely ruins its impressive speed Speed and poison wears it down faster more quickly. Entry hazards are also problematic in limiting Greninja's opportunities to switch in and making it easier to revenge kill.

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