Status: Complete and ready!
Changes:
http://www.smogon.com/dp/pokemon/Rotom-W
Rotom-W is one of the cooler appliances out there. I tried to be "diverse" when writing teammates. In a nutshell:
Specs: Lucario, Scizor, Swampert, Machamp
Scarf: Swampert, Scizor, Skarmory
Rain: Lucario, Kingdra, Toxicroak
Defensive: Tyranitar, Hippowdon, Heatran, Scizor
Rest Talk: Drapion, Swampert, Blissey, Skarmory
Boosting Sweeper: Latias, Swampert, Suicune
Dual Screen: Lucario, Jirachi
Credits: Xia (Grammar/Spell Check), Fireburn (Grammar / Spell Check)
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[SET]
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Thunderbolt
move 2: Shadow Ball
move 3: Hydro Pump
move 4: Trick
item: Choice Specs
nature: Modest / Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 252 Spe / 4 Def
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Rotom-W has one enormous advantage over its other formes: Hydro Pump. Hydro Pump is an excellent move to have in Rotom-W's arsenal as it allows Rotom-W to critically wound Hippowdon, Gliscor, and the ever dangerous Tyranitar. A combination of Thunderbolt, Shadow Ball, and Hydro Pump provides coverage that is resisted by nothing in OU. However, Rotom-W usually lacks enough power to attempt a sweep. For this reason, Choice Specs can be equipped in order to boost Rotom-W's already decent Special Attack stat and allow it to become an admirably dangerous threat in the OU metagame.</p>
<p>Thunderbolt is Rotom-W's strongest means of offense, and it should never be underestimated. With a Choice Specs, this Electric-type move is capable of either bringing down or seriously harming most Pokemon in OU that don't resist it. 0 HP Salamence, 252 HP/252 Def Suicune, and 252 HP Vaporeon, are all examples of what Thunderbolt can OHKO, provided that Stealth Rock is in play. The bulkier 252 HP/92 SpD Bronzong, 252 HP Metagross, and 252 HP Zapdos are all 2HKOed, again factoring Stealth Rock damage. Shadow Ball is an alternative attack that can be used to hit Pokemon that commonly resist Thunderbolt, including Breloom, Celebi, and fellow Rotom formes. Shadow Ball also wounds Cresselia, scoring a definite 2HKO on any version of it. The extent of Rotom-W's power, however, is not over yet - Hydro Pump, as Rotom-W's signature move, is not forgotten. With Hydro Pump, Rotom-W boasts the ability to do something its other formes cannot: OHKO Tyranitar! This is a huge advantage, as Tyranitar is traditionally an excellent counter to many Rotom appliances. You should still be wary of Specially Bulky Choice Banded versions, however, as they are usually not OHKOd by the mighty Water-type move unless they have already taken prior damage earlier in the match. Hydro Pump also takes care of Fire- and bulky Ground-types that are immune to Thunderbolt and take only moderate damage from Shadow Ball. Examples of these include Hippowdon, Heatran, and Rhyperior. Rotom-W's ability to use Trick can also effectively limit the potential of popular counters to this set, the most notable one being Blissey.</p>
<p>While the offensive capabilities that Rotom-W possesses are exceptional, Rotom-W is far from invincible. Pokemon equipped with Choice Specs generally rely on fantastic predictions to be successful, and one wrong move can wreck them altogether. Pursuit is one of Rotom-W's greatest downfalls. If Rotom-W is locked onto Thunderbolt or Shadow Ball, Tyranitar can come in with little to no effort, absorb either move thanks to its high Special Defense, and use Pursuit to trap and eventually OHKO the washing machine. Scizor and Weavile work similarly to Tyranitar; however, they must beware of a hard-hitting Thunderbolt. Choice Band Snorlax is one of the greatest counters to this set - with its immensely high HP and Special Defense, it can fire off life-threatening Pursuits or Crunches to knock Rotom-W down. As always, Blissey is the archenemy of all Rotom formes, but it must watch out for Trick. Blissey can strike back by weakening Rotom-W with Flamethrowers or Ice Beams, or by using Toxic to reduce its health bit by bit. Opponents may even go so far as to use a Choiced Pursuit user absorb a predicted Trick, forcing Rotom-W to keep using Trick and die. This strategy can effectively be executed by Scizor or Tyranitar - on the first turn, they can switch in to receive a Choice Specs; on the second, since they are slower, Rotom-W is forced to Trick back their Choice Band while they use Pursuit to OHKO Rotom-W. Latias is another great counter to absorb Rotom-W's Thunderbolts and Hydro Pumps, but it must watch out for Shadow Ball. Umbreon can come into any of Rotom-W's attacks, taking around 40% from Thunderbolt, and use Toxic to poison Rotom-W. It can subsequently use a Wish + Protect combo to wait for Toxic's damage to chip off Rotom-W's health. Umbreon can also respond by using Payback, although it is not enough to OHKO Rotom-W if Umbreon lacks the necessary Attack EV investment. Electivire and Jolteon can also absorb Thunderbolts without hesitation, thanks to Motor Drive and Volt Absorb, respectively. Pokemon that are faster than Rotom-W and can that threaten to OHKO it are also dangerous. Examples of these include Gengar and Infernape. Another interesting counter is Magnezone, who resists Rotom-W's valuable dual-STAB. Since this Rotom is not bulky, Magnezone's Thunderbolt can do severe damage to it, even though Rotom-W resists it. Pokemon that are Specially bulky for the most part like Clefable and Lanturn will have a field day with this Rotom-W.</p>
<p>Because of the many counters that Rotom-W has, a series of essential partners can help its performance in battle. Lucario is one of Rotom-W's most effective partners. Defensively, Lucario's weaknesses to Ground- and Fighting-type attacks can easily be redirected to Rotom-W, who is immune to them. Similarly, Ghost- and Dark-type attacks aimed at Rotom-W can be handed over to Lucario. If at some point in the match Rotom-W is destroyed by Pursuit, Lucario can come in on Choice Banded ones and strike back with its powerful attacks or begin using Swords Dance to hopefully pull off a sweep. Lucario also takes care of some of Rotom-W's important counters - Blissey, Tyranitar, and Umbreon. Scizor is also another excellent partner for Rotom-W. Scizor can take Crunches from Tyranitar and Snorlax and use Bullet Punch and Superpower respectively to scare them off. Scizor can also tackle Weavile, Gengar, and Latias without too much worry. Substitute Machamp is another interesting partner; if Rotom-W is revenge killed by a Choice Banded Dark-type move, Machamp can throw in a Substitute and begin counterattacking with DynamicPunch, Stone Edge, or Payback. To conclude a recommended list or partners for Rotom-W, bulky Ground-types like Swampert can also help defend against attacks from Tyranitar, Weavile, and other Rotom-W. Swampert's Earthquake usually deals good damage to the likes of Blissey, Electivire, and Jolteon as well.</p>
[SET]
name: Defensive Washing Machine
move 1: Discharge
move 2: Will-O-Wisp / Toxic
move 3: Hydro Pump / Substitute
move 4: Shadow Ball / Light Screen
item: Leftovers
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 168 Def / 88 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Since Tyranitar is a fearsome threat to the Rotom Appliances thanks to Pursuit and its vast physical movepool, Will-O-Wisp and Hydro Pump allow Rotom-W to defeat Choice Band Tyranitar one-on-one as well as many other physical threats. Discharge and Will-O-Wisp offer Rotom-W the ability to cripple its opponents with either paralysis or a burn. Toxic can also be used to wear down threats that mainly attack from the special spectrum, such as Suicune and Latias. Another interesting option that can be used is Substitute. With its useful resistances and immunities, Rotom-W's substitutes can be difficult to break; if it sits safely behind a substitute, it can inflict more status and fire off more attacks under the added protection.</p>
<p>The fourth move is determined based on what Rotom-W does post-status infliction. Shadow Ball offers Rotom-W a chance to fight against Celebi and Swampert thanks to the chances of their Special Defense being dropped one stage. Light Screen offers Rotom-W a boost in its Special Defense, thus being able to take more hits on both sides of the spectrum. The Speed EVs outpace Adamant Tyranitar, and the remaining EVs are invested into HP and Defense to maximize Rotom-W's physically defensive potential.</p>
<p>With the likes of Tyranitar, Scizor, and Weavile not being too threatening against this set, other counters unfortunately arise. Gengar doesn't mind coming in on a Will-O-Wisp or Toxic and can use Shadow Ball to take Rotom-W down. Again, Blissey also doesn't mind getting hurt by any status effects and can use Toxic to cripple Rotom-W. Umbreon is an absolute beast against this set due to its Synchronize ability, which transfers any status effect back to Rotom-W if Umbreon does get poisoned, burned, or paralyzed. With Rotom-W weakened, Pursuit users can scare it yet again - realize that these Pursuit users can still come in on anything except Will-O-Wisp, resist an attack or two, and destroy Rotom-W. Substitute + Calm Minders are among the greatest counters to this set; since this set relies on status and Rotom-W's defenses rather than its offenses, Substitute + Calm Minders like Latias and Jirachi can easily come in, begin setting up, and cause problems for your entire team, especially if you mispredict and use a status-inducing move while these threats set up Substitutes. Another devastating counter to this set is Curse Snorlax, especially if it has Rest. Don't get too confident if you manage to use Will-O-Wisp against it, as Rest can cure it off any status or damage that you might have done to it. Heracross is another reasonable switch-in to Defensive Rotom-W; with its Guts ability, it is able to absorb Will-O-Wisp, take at least one hit, and retaliate with Night Slash or the dreaded Pursuit.</p>
<p>Having a phazer on your side is not a bad idea. Hippowdon's ability to phaze away Substitute + Calm Minders and take hits from Snorlax, Heracross, and Umbreon makes it an excellent partner for this set. Although Hippowdon will lose to Latias, it can Roar away Curse Snorlax and Calm Mind Jirachi. Having a Tyranitar of your own allows you to use Pursuit, the weapon commonly used against Rotom-W itself, to deal with Gengar and Latias. As mentioned before in this analysis, Scizor works well to pick off Rotom-H's general counters, and partnering Scizor up with Rotom-W in this set is acceptable. For a more offensive combo, Heatran is also a great partner with this Rotom-W. Heatran attracts bulky Water-types that Rotom-W can combat with Discharge or Will-O-Wisp; Rotom-W attracts Infernape, and Heatran can switch into its Fire-type attacks for a Flash Fire boost.</p>
[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Thunderbolt
move 2: Shadow Ball
move 3: Hydro Pump
move 4: Trick
item: Choice Scarf
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 252 Spe / 4 Def
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>While Choice Scarf Rotom-W sports significantly less power than its Choice Specs counterpart, it allows Rotom-W to outrun a reasonable number of threats in today's metagame. Choice Scarf Rotom-W is especially potent among its Rotom appliance siblings because of its repeatedly mentioned ability to use Hydro Pump, which can be used to revenge kill Heatran, Infernape, and Mamoswine.<p>
<p>A Timid nature is preferable in order to be able to outrun Naive Heatran, Latias and Gengar that lack Choice Scarves, and Adamant Tyranitar after two Dragon Dances. 252 Speed EVs, a Timid Nature, and a Choice Scarf puts Rotom-W at a comfortable 447 Speed, outrunning everything up to Jolly Choice Scarf Heracross. Thunderbolt is once again Rotom-W's most powerful attack. The surprise factor that Scarf Rotom-W has can occasionally allow it to revenge kill Starmie, 80 Spe Ninjask, and +1 Jolly Gyarados, among other things. Non-Scarf Gengar or Modest Choice Scarf Rotom Appliances that switch into Rotom-W unsuspectingly, expecting to be faster, are harmed by Shadow Ball. Hydro Pump is the most direct solution to Ground-, Fire-, and Rock-types that also expect to be faster than Rotom-W; a great example of this is a Rock Polish Rhyperior that has already obtained a boost. As usual, Trick is used to cripple slow Rotom-W counters like Swampert and Blissey.</p>
<p>While the counters of Choice Specs Rotom-W return to resist its attack yet again, the vulnerability of this set both introduced and removed some counters. For example, while Infernape could fatally injure Choice Specs Rotom-W, it obviously cannot do the same against Choice Scarf Rotom-W without being hurt, due to it being outsped. Because of Rotom-W's reduced power, Pokemon like Jirachi will have a tremendously easier time against this version. Jirachi is able to use a Substitute + Calm Mind combo to keep reducing the damage inflicted by Rotom-W's moves; at +6 SpA and SpD, it will be very hard to deal with. Kingdra can take advantage of Rotom-W's Hydro Pump, or even its Shadow Ball, since it is only capable of 3HKOing it at the very best. Kingdra can then get a minimum of two Dragon Dances up its belt, outrun Rotom-W, OHKO it, and possibly knock out other members of your team. Pursuit users also consider Rotom-W a breeze to deal with, since most of the time Rotom-W will be unable to sufficiently weaken them as they Pursuit the washing machine to death. Rest + Sleep Talk Spiritomb is also an extreme pain for this set, coming in on any attack and using Shadow Ball or Dark Pulse to take Rotom-W down. Basically, anything that can take a few hits and retaliate powerfully is a problem for this particular Rotom-W. Jolteon and Swampert are classic examples of such Pokemon. Dragon Dancing Tyranitar can also take advantage of this set to set up. While it is true that you will outrun Adamant Tyranitar even after it Dragon Dances twice, your Hydro Pump is merely a 2HKO or even a possible 3HKO if the Tyranitar has Leftovers.</p>
<p>The biggest problem for this set is that many people will take advantage of the fact that Rotom-W is locked onto a not very powerful move and begin setting up on it. Therefore, having a phazer would be a particularly good idea. Skarmory is fantastic at the job. Skarmory's Electric-type weakness can be cushioned by Rotom-W; in turn, Rotom-W's Dark and Ghost-type weaknesses can be cushioned by Skarmory. Skarmory can also prevent sweeps by Tyranitar and Kingdra by using Whirlwind to temporarily blast them away. When not phazing opponents or defensively resisting various attacking types, Skarmory can set up entry hazards of its own. These entry hazards can be beneficial to Rotom-W since they will take away HP off its foes, and since Scarf Rotom-W is not the best attacker around, its life will be made much easier with the aid of Stealth Rock and Spikes. Unfortunately, Skarmory will be unable to deal with Jirachi. Choice Band Scizor is also another good partner with this Rotom-W. It's powerful U-turn will at least be able to break Jirachi's Substitute, allowing you to revenge kill it with a sweeper like Dugtrio or Choice Scarf Heatran. Choice Band Scizor also damages Tyranitar should it manage to set up on you. Swampert is a fabulous partner for this set; it can kill weakened Kingdra and Tyranitar with Earthquake, or Roar them away. Swampert also takes care of Calm Mind Jirachi and Jolteon that lack Hidden Power Grass. Swampert is also good at taking Outrages coming from Salamence and Flygon in the hopes of doing away with Rotom-W.</p>
[SET]
name: Washing in the Rain
move 1: Rain Dance
move 2: Thunder
move 3: Hydro Pump
move 4: Shadow Ball / Hidden Power Ice
item: Damp Rock / Life Orb / Leftovers
nature: Modest / Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 252 Spe / 4 Def
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>With Hydro Pump exclusive to Rotom-W and STAB Thunder tearing apart many Pokemon, Rain Dance is a very appealing option for Rotom-W. After setting up the rain, Rotom-W can fire off pseudo-STAB Hydro Pumps at Ground-types or use STAB Thunder for 30% chance of paralysis to aggravate the opponent. Thanks to STAB Thunder scaring most Water-type, excluding Swampert, it makes it difficult for the opponent to use the rain effectively against Rotom-W. While Shadow Ball is the best option for slot four, Hidden Power Ice hits Grass-types such as Roserade and Breloom harder. If Celebi is the main concern to this set, Shadow Ball can easily 2HKO it. Shadow Ball is preferred over Hidden Power Ice because Cresselia and other Rotom Appliances won’t enjoy constant Shadow Ball attacks.</p>
<p>This set can be played either offensively or defensively. Offensively, Rotom-W should use either Life Orb or Damp Rock as the item. Life Orb gives Rotom-W the extra boost needed to significantly damage Zapdos and Swampert. Damp Rock lengthens the number of turns in the rain, thus giving Rotom-W and its teammates more time to abuse the weather. Defensive strategies can also use Damp Rock; however, Leftovers is a good choice to keep Rotom-W alive longer. Although Modest is the recommended nature, Timid can be used to outrun Adamant Lucario. If Rotom-W needs to be bulkier than what is suggested, use either the RestTalk or the Double Status spreads with a Calm or Bold nature. </p>
<p>With such threatening moves to work with, not many Pokemon can switch into this set safely. However, the best counter available is still Blissey. With the absence of Trick on this set, Blissey will be able to come in and Wish up to heal her teammates, or use Toxic on Rotom-W to shorten its lifespan. The extremely rare Quagsire is also a pretty solid counter to this set, boasting immunities to both Thunder and Hydro Pump, thanks to Water Absorb and its partial Ground typing. With enough Special Defense EVs, Quagsire can survive numerous Shadow Balls or Hidden Power Ices as well. Swampert works similarly, but it does not have Water Absorb. Tyranitar can also counter this set effectively, using its Sand Stream ability to wipe away the rain. It can then use powerful moves like Crunch or Payback to knock Rotom-W out of play if Hydro Pump does not kill it first.</p>
<p>To counter Blissey, Kingdra is a great Pokemon to work alongside this version of Rotom-W. Kingdra can take advantage of the Rain and use a Substitute + Dragon Dance combo to block Blissey's Toxic and Flamethrower, Ice Beam, or Thunderbolt. Kingdra can then proceed to sweep the opponent's team. Toxicroak is immune to poison and can heal turn by turn using its Dry Skin ability, while threatening Blissey with Cross Chop. Lucario is another dependable partner to work with Rotom-W; however, since this Rotom-W is used in Rain Dance teams, it is recommended that you use partners that benefit from the rainy weather. Choice Band Dugtrio can help pick off threats like Blissey and Tyranitar, who otherwise wreck this set, so it is a good choice of partner, too.</p>
[SET]
name: Rest + Sleep Talk
move 1: Rest
move 2: Sleep Talk
move 3: Discharge / Shadow Ball
move 4: Hydro Pump / Hidden Power Ice / Will-O-Wisp / Hidden Power Fighting
item: Leftovers
nature: Calm
evs: 252 HP / 136 Def / 120 SpD
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This set provides a highly defensive approach to using Rotom-W. The lack of recovery is a problem for defensive Rotom-W; however, Rest and Sleep Talk compensate for this. When choosing the corresponding move, Rotom-W must be aware of what it should do. Discharge and Hydro Pump give Rotom-W the difference between its other formes. It can handle Heatran that dare switch into Rotom-W thanks to the 66% chance of either selecting the super effective Hydro Pump or Discharge. If Discharge paralyzes Heatran, it can be defeated next turn by Hydro Pump. Discharge and Will-O-Wisp allow Rotom-W to use pseudo Double Status while sleeping. Hidden Power Ice and Discharge offer nearly ideal coverage, being able to nail common Ground- and Grass-type switch-ins, while Shadow Ball and Hidden Power Fighting go the full distance, offering unparalleled perfect coverage. The EVs here are recommended for balance of both defenses. If wanted, Rotom-W can invest into more Defense or Special Defense for certain threats. With more Defense, Rotom-W can intercept Metagross easier while more Special Defense gives Rotom-W the ability to counter Zapdos and Starmie easier.</p>
<p>As of DPP, it's probably safe to say that the Rotom formes are the best spin blockers in the game. Because of this, Rest + Sleep Talk Rotom-W is often seen in stall teams as a status absorber and as a spin blocker. Lucario is a great stall breaker, and is a concern to stall teams, especially if it manages to set up on a sleeping Rotom-W. Tyranitar can greatly take advantage of Rotom-W when it is Resting to set up Dragon Dance or use Pursuit and Crunch. Blissey still beats this set unless Toxic Spikes is in play. However, it sure is nice to be able to shrug off Blissey's Toxic for once. Again, anything that can set up against this Rotom-W, such as Salamence (although it must beware of Hidden Power Ice), will give it a hard time, especially when you're relying luck to choose the correct move in the process of Sleep Talking.</p>
<p>Many members of stall teams are highly effective when paired with Rotom-W. Skarmory is one of them. In addition to boasting high Defense and the ability to set up Spikes, Skarmory and Rotom-H help cover each other's weaknesses. Spikes support is often necessary to help Rotom-H score OHKOs with its mediocre Special Attack, as no Special Attack EVs are invested in this set. Gyarados is also able to take +2 Lucario's Close Combat and attack it with Waterfall or Roar it away, although Gliscor is definitely a better Lucario counter. Blissey is another excellent teammate. Without the ability to use instant recovery moves, Blissey's Wish can aid the survival of Rotom-W. In addition, Blissey's Fighting-type weakness is covered by Rotom-W, while Rotom-W's Ghost-type weakness is covered by Blissey. Swampert also helps Rotom-W; with Earthquake, it is able to harm Tyranitar and Heatran. Without Swampert's assistance, Heatran can easily come in on a snoozing Rotom-W and set up a Substitute to cause problems or attack it. Still, Swampert must be wary of Hidden Power Grass. Rotom-W's greatest Toxic Spikes partner is Drapion. Both of them cover each other's weaknesses perfectly and function as a formidable defensive force. Tentacruel is also acceptable because it can help Rotom-W against MixApe and Heatran, but Drapion is still the better option.</p>
[SET]
name: Dual Screens
move 1: Reflect
move 2: Light Screen
move 3: Discharge / Shadow Ball
move 4: Hydro Pump / Hidden Power Ice / Hidden Power Fighting
item: Light Clay
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 100 Def / 100 SpD / 56 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>With the ability to come in on many Pokemon in the OU metagame, such as Metagross, Bronzong, and Togekiss, Rotom-W is an excellent user of Dual Screens. Reflect and Light Screen aid Rotom-W's teammates and provide protection if they decide to set up. Discharge and Hidden Power Ice provide coverage resisted only by Magnezone, Lanturn, and Shedinja in the game, while Shadow Ball and Hidden Power Fighting provide coverage resisted by nothing. Hydro Pump, however, allows Rotom-W to win against the likes of Infernape and Heatran, provided that Light Screen is up.</p>
<p>The Speed EVs outrun Adamant Tyranitar while the defenses are balanced to take advantage of both Reflect and Light Screen. Light Clay is the preferred item; however, Leftovers can also be used to keep Rotom-W healthy.</p>
<p>Lucario is one of the best teammates to have along with Rotom-W, and it will have a much easier time setting up a Swords Dance or two with Dual Screens in play. If Rotom-W is revenge killed by Dark- or Ghost-type moves, Lucario resists these attacking types and can use this as an opportunity to set up. Beware of Gengar, however. Previously mentioned teammates like Scizor and Tyranitar are great as well, but make sure they are able to make the most out of the dual screens and use Swords Dance and Dragon Dance respectively to set up. Gyarados and Salamence can also use their bulk to set up. Anything with a set up move and has enough defenses to be protected by dual screens are ideal teammates; take Jirachi, for example. If Jirachi is ever threatened by a Ground-type move, Rotom-W is immune to it and can help Jirachi take Earthquakes, Earth Powers, and the like. In return, Jirachi helps demolish Tyranitar, Blissey, and Gengar.</p>
[SET]
name: Boosting Sweeper
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Charge Beam
move 3: Shadow Ball
move 4: Thunderbolt / Hidden Power Fighting
item: Leftovers
nature: Timid
evs: 64 HP / 232 SpA / 212 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Although one of the lesser used options, Charge Beam allows Rotom-W to attack while having a large chance to boost its already high Special Attack. When combined with Substitute, Rotom-W is even more capable of setting up on Blissey, a Pokemon that would normally wall a special attacking Rotom-W set. Seismic Toss has no effect on Rotom-W and Flamethrower / Ice Beam do not break Rotom-W's Substitutes due to the slight HP investment. Substitute also allows Rotom to block any Thunder Wave or Toxic that Blissey might launch at it. Shadow Ball is Rotom-W's main form of attack once it has received boosts from Charge Beam, capable of 3HKOing even 252 HP / 96 SpD Sassy Bronzong after a single boost. Hidden Power Fighting allows Rotom-W to take on incoming Tyranitar hoping to munch down on the wily ghost. After six boosts, Rotom-W is capable of 2HKOing even 0 HP / 176 SpD Calm Blissey (the bulkiest Blissey that Rotom will likely encounter) with either Hidden Power Fighting or Thunderbolt. Thunderbolt is also Rotom-W's best choice of attack against Scizor.</p>
<p>As previously mentioned, 64 HP EVs allow Rotom-W's Substitutes to withstand any attack that Blissey is likely to use, as well as allowing Rotom-W to form three Substitutes in sand and five in normal weather. A Timid nature and 212 EVs allows Rotom-W to outspeed positive-Speed natured Mamoswine and neutral-Speed natured Lucario. Using 212 Speed EVs also allows Rotom-W to reach a bonus point. 232 Special Attack EVs allow Rotom-W to almost always 2HKO 0 HP / 176 SpD Calm Blissey with Hidden Power Fighting or Thunderbolt after six boosts as well as having a 38% chance of 2HKOing 252 HP / 252 SpD Careful Tyranitar in sandstorm after a single boost with Hidden Power Fighting; it becomes a definite 2HKO if Tyranitar switches into Stealth Rock.</p>
<p>In order for Rotom-W to have an easier time with the bulkiest of walls, entry hazard support is greatly beneficial when used in tandem with this set. As previously mentioned, Skarmory and Drapion help it out immensely due to them being solid defensive partners alongside this Rotom-W.</p>
<p>While this set seems incredibly destructive once Rotom-W has used Charge Beam a fair number of times, anything that is faster than it and that can deal astounding damage to it is the key to defeating it. Even Tyranitar and Blissey can fall to this set; most of the time, a sacrifice must be made in order to defeat this Rotom forme. If not, you will need to use pivoting skills to the best of your ability. Examples of what can threaten this Rotom-W include Infernape, Scarf Heatran, Weavile, Jolteon, and Salamence. Ground-types can also block Charge Beam, disabling Rotom-W from executing the strategy of this set properly. Latias is a good teammate that helps Rotom-W against Infernape, Heatran, and Jolteon. Latias can also use Surf to harm Hippowdon, Rhyperior, and the like. Swampert can wall Heatran, Jolteon (without Hidden Power Grass) and Salamence somewhat effectively. A bulky Water-type, like Suicune, can also support Rotom-W by eliminating the likes of Heatran, Infernape, and Gengar before they can trouble Rotom-W later in the match.</p>
[Team Options]
<p>Bulky Ground-types are extremely supportive team members that pair well with Rotom-W. This is because a powerful move like a Draco Meteor coming from Salamence can bring about Rotom-W's doom. Swampert is the one that especially shines, due to being able to counter Tyranitar, Jolteon, Weavile, and other threatening attackers. Lucario and Drapion work with Rotom-W to cover each other's weaknesses, and both of them can take advantage of a Choice Banded Pursuit to set up a Swords Dance. Scizor is also good at taking care of other common Rotom-W counters, like Latias, Gengar, and Snorlax. Steel-types like Metagross and Bronzong also help Rotom-W take Toxic coming from Blissey and other defensively oriented Pokemon.</p>
<p>Entry hazards can greatly help Rotom-W, especially on offensive variants like Choice Scarf, Choice Specs, and the Boosting Sweeper sets. Stealth Rock and Spikes can wear down an opponent to the point that Rotom-W can simply pick them off one by one with powerful Thunderbolts, Shadow Balls, and its signature Hydro Pumps. Thankfully, Levitate renders Spikes and Toxic Spikes useless against Rotom-W, which is a great characteristic, especially against stall teams. Don't abuse Rotom-W's power, however; know what it can and can't kill. At the same time, watch out for Pursuit.</p>
<p>Offensive Rotom-W variants should be paired with Pokemon that are able to pick off Rotom-W's counters (for example, Scizor and Lucario). Defensive Rotom-W variants should be paired with typical members of stall (for example, Blissey and Skarmory), since stall is where the Rest + Sleep Talk Spin-blocking Rotom-W truly belongs. Rotom-W with Rain Dance should always be paired with Pokemon that function well in the rain, like Floatzel. Machamp and Lucario can also be used, but Swift Swimmers are, in the long run, more effective. The Dual Screener should be paired with Pokemon that are defensive enough to make use of Reflect and Light Screen, but that is also able to set up (for example, Jirachi and Dragonite).</p>
[Other Options]
<p>Hidden Power Grass works in tandem with Thunderbolt or Discharge to eliminate Swampert but Shadow Ball can usually wear him down. Charge Beam and Hydro Pump work on the RestTalk set if Rotom-W desires more power while maintaining its bulky physique. Confuse Ray pairs well with Discharge, though the annoyer role is best left to Rotom-F thanks to Air Slash's flinch chance. Thunder Wave and Toxic are Rotom-W’s other status moves available. Thunder Wave guarantees paralysis while Toxic cripples bulky Pokemon such as Zapdos. Ominous Wind and Charge are Rotom-W’s other options to bolster its stats. Spite and Protect allow Rotom-W to PP stall; however, it is better left to Dusknoir and Spiritomb thanks to Pressure.</p>
[EVs]
<p>There are many ways to actually go about EVing Rotom-W so great care is needed. The offensive spread should focus on Speed and Special Attack almost entirely. Any other sets should always focus on maximizing HP with the exception of the Boosting Sweeper which should use 64 HP EVs to prevent most Blissey's Flamethrowers and Ice Beams from breaking your Substitutes. Speed EVs become more important when considering what Rotom-W should outpace. With Choice Scarf and 184 Speed EVs Rotom-W reaches 418 Speed with a Timid nature, just enough to outpace even the fastest Heatran. 88 Speed EVs with a neutral nature outpaces at the very least max Speed Adamant Scizor. From there, the dilemma is how to distribute the remaining EVs among the defenses. Once EVs are placed, pick a nature that compliments the chosen spread. For example, you would want to use a Bold nature if you opt to use 168 Defense EVs. 154 Speed EVs obtain 246 Speed, just enough to also outpace Tyranitar with a Jolly nature. Timid with 212 Speed EVs outruns Adamant Lucario, Mamoswine, and Gyarados.</p>
<p>Generally, Rotom-W enjoys balanced defenses so you should opt for a spread that achieves this. Both 252 HP / 136 Def / 120 SpD with a Calm nature or 252 HP / 120 Def / 136 SpD with a Bold nature accomplish this goal. 252 HP / 116 Def / 140 SpD with a Bold nature is another possibility with the Double Screen set. This set adds more of a buffer against neutral Psychics from Azelf possibly avoiding a 2HKO at best as well as what was mentioned with the original EV spread.</p>
[Opinion]
<p>Hydro Pump is Rotom-W's forte and it is an excellent offensive move. It gives Rotom-W the ability to retaliate against Ground-types. It also makes Heatran and other Fire-types have second thoughts on whether to switch into Rotom-W. It is arguably one of the best defensive anti-spinners in the game, but it is no slouch on the offensive either. Rain Dance is menacing when used with Rotom-W thanks to Hydro Pump being boosted by the rain. Rotom-W is a Pokemon that should not be underestimated as it is backed up by its numerous resistances, excellent defenses, modest Special Attack, and acceptable Speed. The aforementioned Hydro Pump and Rain Dance are the main reasons to use the washing machine Rotom over its other formes though.</p>
[Counters]
<p>Blissey is one of Rotom-W’s better counters, if not the best. It is a very dominant special wall that sponges every special attack from Rotom-W and heals off the damage with either Wish or Softboiled. Natural Cure makes Blissey an even better candidate since it can remove status upon switching out. The only set that Blissey should fear is the Substitute / Charge Beam Rotom-W. Trick + Choice item is, however, a nuisance to Blissey, so caution is advised when switching into Rotom-W. Tyranitar doesn’t enjoy Hydro Pump, Hidden Power Fighting, or Will-O-Wisp, but can easily step into Thunderbolt and Shadow Ball while Pursuiting Rotom-W. Pokemon with Rest and Sleep Talk, especially Spiritomb, are the best counters to most of Rotom-W's strategies. Spiritomb takes neutral damage from every one of Rotom-W’s attacks and sports STAB Shadow Ball or Dark Pulse to eliminate it. Swampert with Curse and Waterfall sets up on Rotom-W that lack Shadow Ball and Hidden Power Grass. With Substitute and Calm Mind, Jirachi and Raikou can set up against Rotom-W as well. Heatran, despite being frightened of switching into Hydro Pump, can absorb Will-O-Wisp and return the favor with a STAB, Flash Fire boosted Fire Blast.</p>
<p>Recently, the Boosting Sweeper set has experienced an increase in terms of usage and popularity. Blissey can even be defeated by this set if she lacks the resources to consistently damage Rotom-W, and this is a grave concern! For this reason, it is important to know how to counter it. Pokemon like Hippowdon, Spiritomb, Snorlax, and Swampert are recognized as excellent counters. Ground-types, specifically, are immune to Charge Beam and can thus prevent Rotom-W from earning additional Special Attack boosts (however, they must still beware of Hydro Pump)! Interestingly, even Scizor does particularly well against this set, taking not too much damage from Hidden Power Fighting.</p>
Changes:
- "Team Options" in green
- I expanded most set descriptions
- I split "Offensive Choice" into Choice Scarf and Choice Specs sets
- I added a "Team Options" section
http://www.smogon.com/dp/pokemon/Rotom-W
Rotom-W is one of the cooler appliances out there. I tried to be "diverse" when writing teammates. In a nutshell:
Specs: Lucario, Scizor, Swampert, Machamp
Scarf: Swampert, Scizor, Skarmory
Rain: Lucario, Kingdra, Toxicroak
Defensive: Tyranitar, Hippowdon, Heatran, Scizor
Rest Talk: Drapion, Swampert, Blissey, Skarmory
Boosting Sweeper: Latias, Swampert, Suicune
Dual Screen: Lucario, Jirachi
Credits: Xia (Grammar/Spell Check), Fireburn (Grammar / Spell Check)
------------------------------------------------------
[SET]
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Thunderbolt
move 2: Shadow Ball
move 3: Hydro Pump
move 4: Trick
item: Choice Specs
nature: Modest / Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 252 Spe / 4 Def
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Rotom-W has one enormous advantage over its other formes: Hydro Pump. Hydro Pump is an excellent move to have in Rotom-W's arsenal as it allows Rotom-W to critically wound Hippowdon, Gliscor, and the ever dangerous Tyranitar. A combination of Thunderbolt, Shadow Ball, and Hydro Pump provides coverage that is resisted by nothing in OU. However, Rotom-W usually lacks enough power to attempt a sweep. For this reason, Choice Specs can be equipped in order to boost Rotom-W's already decent Special Attack stat and allow it to become an admirably dangerous threat in the OU metagame.</p>
<p>Thunderbolt is Rotom-W's strongest means of offense, and it should never be underestimated. With a Choice Specs, this Electric-type move is capable of either bringing down or seriously harming most Pokemon in OU that don't resist it. 0 HP Salamence, 252 HP/252 Def Suicune, and 252 HP Vaporeon, are all examples of what Thunderbolt can OHKO, provided that Stealth Rock is in play. The bulkier 252 HP/92 SpD Bronzong, 252 HP Metagross, and 252 HP Zapdos are all 2HKOed, again factoring Stealth Rock damage. Shadow Ball is an alternative attack that can be used to hit Pokemon that commonly resist Thunderbolt, including Breloom, Celebi, and fellow Rotom formes. Shadow Ball also wounds Cresselia, scoring a definite 2HKO on any version of it. The extent of Rotom-W's power, however, is not over yet - Hydro Pump, as Rotom-W's signature move, is not forgotten. With Hydro Pump, Rotom-W boasts the ability to do something its other formes cannot: OHKO Tyranitar! This is a huge advantage, as Tyranitar is traditionally an excellent counter to many Rotom appliances. You should still be wary of Specially Bulky Choice Banded versions, however, as they are usually not OHKOd by the mighty Water-type move unless they have already taken prior damage earlier in the match. Hydro Pump also takes care of Fire- and bulky Ground-types that are immune to Thunderbolt and take only moderate damage from Shadow Ball. Examples of these include Hippowdon, Heatran, and Rhyperior. Rotom-W's ability to use Trick can also effectively limit the potential of popular counters to this set, the most notable one being Blissey.</p>
<p>While the offensive capabilities that Rotom-W possesses are exceptional, Rotom-W is far from invincible. Pokemon equipped with Choice Specs generally rely on fantastic predictions to be successful, and one wrong move can wreck them altogether. Pursuit is one of Rotom-W's greatest downfalls. If Rotom-W is locked onto Thunderbolt or Shadow Ball, Tyranitar can come in with little to no effort, absorb either move thanks to its high Special Defense, and use Pursuit to trap and eventually OHKO the washing machine. Scizor and Weavile work similarly to Tyranitar; however, they must beware of a hard-hitting Thunderbolt. Choice Band Snorlax is one of the greatest counters to this set - with its immensely high HP and Special Defense, it can fire off life-threatening Pursuits or Crunches to knock Rotom-W down. As always, Blissey is the archenemy of all Rotom formes, but it must watch out for Trick. Blissey can strike back by weakening Rotom-W with Flamethrowers or Ice Beams, or by using Toxic to reduce its health bit by bit. Opponents may even go so far as to use a Choiced Pursuit user absorb a predicted Trick, forcing Rotom-W to keep using Trick and die. This strategy can effectively be executed by Scizor or Tyranitar - on the first turn, they can switch in to receive a Choice Specs; on the second, since they are slower, Rotom-W is forced to Trick back their Choice Band while they use Pursuit to OHKO Rotom-W. Latias is another great counter to absorb Rotom-W's Thunderbolts and Hydro Pumps, but it must watch out for Shadow Ball. Umbreon can come into any of Rotom-W's attacks, taking around 40% from Thunderbolt, and use Toxic to poison Rotom-W. It can subsequently use a Wish + Protect combo to wait for Toxic's damage to chip off Rotom-W's health. Umbreon can also respond by using Payback, although it is not enough to OHKO Rotom-W if Umbreon lacks the necessary Attack EV investment. Electivire and Jolteon can also absorb Thunderbolts without hesitation, thanks to Motor Drive and Volt Absorb, respectively. Pokemon that are faster than Rotom-W and can that threaten to OHKO it are also dangerous. Examples of these include Gengar and Infernape. Another interesting counter is Magnezone, who resists Rotom-W's valuable dual-STAB. Since this Rotom is not bulky, Magnezone's Thunderbolt can do severe damage to it, even though Rotom-W resists it. Pokemon that are Specially bulky for the most part like Clefable and Lanturn will have a field day with this Rotom-W.</p>
<p>Because of the many counters that Rotom-W has, a series of essential partners can help its performance in battle. Lucario is one of Rotom-W's most effective partners. Defensively, Lucario's weaknesses to Ground- and Fighting-type attacks can easily be redirected to Rotom-W, who is immune to them. Similarly, Ghost- and Dark-type attacks aimed at Rotom-W can be handed over to Lucario. If at some point in the match Rotom-W is destroyed by Pursuit, Lucario can come in on Choice Banded ones and strike back with its powerful attacks or begin using Swords Dance to hopefully pull off a sweep. Lucario also takes care of some of Rotom-W's important counters - Blissey, Tyranitar, and Umbreon. Scizor is also another excellent partner for Rotom-W. Scizor can take Crunches from Tyranitar and Snorlax and use Bullet Punch and Superpower respectively to scare them off. Scizor can also tackle Weavile, Gengar, and Latias without too much worry. Substitute Machamp is another interesting partner; if Rotom-W is revenge killed by a Choice Banded Dark-type move, Machamp can throw in a Substitute and begin counterattacking with DynamicPunch, Stone Edge, or Payback. To conclude a recommended list or partners for Rotom-W, bulky Ground-types like Swampert can also help defend against attacks from Tyranitar, Weavile, and other Rotom-W. Swampert's Earthquake usually deals good damage to the likes of Blissey, Electivire, and Jolteon as well.</p>
[SET]
name: Defensive Washing Machine
move 1: Discharge
move 2: Will-O-Wisp / Toxic
move 3: Hydro Pump / Substitute
move 4: Shadow Ball / Light Screen
item: Leftovers
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 168 Def / 88 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Since Tyranitar is a fearsome threat to the Rotom Appliances thanks to Pursuit and its vast physical movepool, Will-O-Wisp and Hydro Pump allow Rotom-W to defeat Choice Band Tyranitar one-on-one as well as many other physical threats. Discharge and Will-O-Wisp offer Rotom-W the ability to cripple its opponents with either paralysis or a burn. Toxic can also be used to wear down threats that mainly attack from the special spectrum, such as Suicune and Latias. Another interesting option that can be used is Substitute. With its useful resistances and immunities, Rotom-W's substitutes can be difficult to break; if it sits safely behind a substitute, it can inflict more status and fire off more attacks under the added protection.</p>
<p>The fourth move is determined based on what Rotom-W does post-status infliction. Shadow Ball offers Rotom-W a chance to fight against Celebi and Swampert thanks to the chances of their Special Defense being dropped one stage. Light Screen offers Rotom-W a boost in its Special Defense, thus being able to take more hits on both sides of the spectrum. The Speed EVs outpace Adamant Tyranitar, and the remaining EVs are invested into HP and Defense to maximize Rotom-W's physically defensive potential.</p>
<p>With the likes of Tyranitar, Scizor, and Weavile not being too threatening against this set, other counters unfortunately arise. Gengar doesn't mind coming in on a Will-O-Wisp or Toxic and can use Shadow Ball to take Rotom-W down. Again, Blissey also doesn't mind getting hurt by any status effects and can use Toxic to cripple Rotom-W. Umbreon is an absolute beast against this set due to its Synchronize ability, which transfers any status effect back to Rotom-W if Umbreon does get poisoned, burned, or paralyzed. With Rotom-W weakened, Pursuit users can scare it yet again - realize that these Pursuit users can still come in on anything except Will-O-Wisp, resist an attack or two, and destroy Rotom-W. Substitute + Calm Minders are among the greatest counters to this set; since this set relies on status and Rotom-W's defenses rather than its offenses, Substitute + Calm Minders like Latias and Jirachi can easily come in, begin setting up, and cause problems for your entire team, especially if you mispredict and use a status-inducing move while these threats set up Substitutes. Another devastating counter to this set is Curse Snorlax, especially if it has Rest. Don't get too confident if you manage to use Will-O-Wisp against it, as Rest can cure it off any status or damage that you might have done to it. Heracross is another reasonable switch-in to Defensive Rotom-W; with its Guts ability, it is able to absorb Will-O-Wisp, take at least one hit, and retaliate with Night Slash or the dreaded Pursuit.</p>
<p>Having a phazer on your side is not a bad idea. Hippowdon's ability to phaze away Substitute + Calm Minders and take hits from Snorlax, Heracross, and Umbreon makes it an excellent partner for this set. Although Hippowdon will lose to Latias, it can Roar away Curse Snorlax and Calm Mind Jirachi. Having a Tyranitar of your own allows you to use Pursuit, the weapon commonly used against Rotom-W itself, to deal with Gengar and Latias. As mentioned before in this analysis, Scizor works well to pick off Rotom-H's general counters, and partnering Scizor up with Rotom-W in this set is acceptable. For a more offensive combo, Heatran is also a great partner with this Rotom-W. Heatran attracts bulky Water-types that Rotom-W can combat with Discharge or Will-O-Wisp; Rotom-W attracts Infernape, and Heatran can switch into its Fire-type attacks for a Flash Fire boost.</p>
[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Thunderbolt
move 2: Shadow Ball
move 3: Hydro Pump
move 4: Trick
item: Choice Scarf
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 252 Spe / 4 Def
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>While Choice Scarf Rotom-W sports significantly less power than its Choice Specs counterpart, it allows Rotom-W to outrun a reasonable number of threats in today's metagame. Choice Scarf Rotom-W is especially potent among its Rotom appliance siblings because of its repeatedly mentioned ability to use Hydro Pump, which can be used to revenge kill Heatran, Infernape, and Mamoswine.<p>
<p>A Timid nature is preferable in order to be able to outrun Naive Heatran, Latias and Gengar that lack Choice Scarves, and Adamant Tyranitar after two Dragon Dances. 252 Speed EVs, a Timid Nature, and a Choice Scarf puts Rotom-W at a comfortable 447 Speed, outrunning everything up to Jolly Choice Scarf Heracross. Thunderbolt is once again Rotom-W's most powerful attack. The surprise factor that Scarf Rotom-W has can occasionally allow it to revenge kill Starmie, 80 Spe Ninjask, and +1 Jolly Gyarados, among other things. Non-Scarf Gengar or Modest Choice Scarf Rotom Appliances that switch into Rotom-W unsuspectingly, expecting to be faster, are harmed by Shadow Ball. Hydro Pump is the most direct solution to Ground-, Fire-, and Rock-types that also expect to be faster than Rotom-W; a great example of this is a Rock Polish Rhyperior that has already obtained a boost. As usual, Trick is used to cripple slow Rotom-W counters like Swampert and Blissey.</p>
<p>While the counters of Choice Specs Rotom-W return to resist its attack yet again, the vulnerability of this set both introduced and removed some counters. For example, while Infernape could fatally injure Choice Specs Rotom-W, it obviously cannot do the same against Choice Scarf Rotom-W without being hurt, due to it being outsped. Because of Rotom-W's reduced power, Pokemon like Jirachi will have a tremendously easier time against this version. Jirachi is able to use a Substitute + Calm Mind combo to keep reducing the damage inflicted by Rotom-W's moves; at +6 SpA and SpD, it will be very hard to deal with. Kingdra can take advantage of Rotom-W's Hydro Pump, or even its Shadow Ball, since it is only capable of 3HKOing it at the very best. Kingdra can then get a minimum of two Dragon Dances up its belt, outrun Rotom-W, OHKO it, and possibly knock out other members of your team. Pursuit users also consider Rotom-W a breeze to deal with, since most of the time Rotom-W will be unable to sufficiently weaken them as they Pursuit the washing machine to death. Rest + Sleep Talk Spiritomb is also an extreme pain for this set, coming in on any attack and using Shadow Ball or Dark Pulse to take Rotom-W down. Basically, anything that can take a few hits and retaliate powerfully is a problem for this particular Rotom-W. Jolteon and Swampert are classic examples of such Pokemon. Dragon Dancing Tyranitar can also take advantage of this set to set up. While it is true that you will outrun Adamant Tyranitar even after it Dragon Dances twice, your Hydro Pump is merely a 2HKO or even a possible 3HKO if the Tyranitar has Leftovers.</p>
<p>The biggest problem for this set is that many people will take advantage of the fact that Rotom-W is locked onto a not very powerful move and begin setting up on it. Therefore, having a phazer would be a particularly good idea. Skarmory is fantastic at the job. Skarmory's Electric-type weakness can be cushioned by Rotom-W; in turn, Rotom-W's Dark and Ghost-type weaknesses can be cushioned by Skarmory. Skarmory can also prevent sweeps by Tyranitar and Kingdra by using Whirlwind to temporarily blast them away. When not phazing opponents or defensively resisting various attacking types, Skarmory can set up entry hazards of its own. These entry hazards can be beneficial to Rotom-W since they will take away HP off its foes, and since Scarf Rotom-W is not the best attacker around, its life will be made much easier with the aid of Stealth Rock and Spikes. Unfortunately, Skarmory will be unable to deal with Jirachi. Choice Band Scizor is also another good partner with this Rotom-W. It's powerful U-turn will at least be able to break Jirachi's Substitute, allowing you to revenge kill it with a sweeper like Dugtrio or Choice Scarf Heatran. Choice Band Scizor also damages Tyranitar should it manage to set up on you. Swampert is a fabulous partner for this set; it can kill weakened Kingdra and Tyranitar with Earthquake, or Roar them away. Swampert also takes care of Calm Mind Jirachi and Jolteon that lack Hidden Power Grass. Swampert is also good at taking Outrages coming from Salamence and Flygon in the hopes of doing away with Rotom-W.</p>
[SET]
name: Washing in the Rain
move 1: Rain Dance
move 2: Thunder
move 3: Hydro Pump
move 4: Shadow Ball / Hidden Power Ice
item: Damp Rock / Life Orb / Leftovers
nature: Modest / Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 252 Spe / 4 Def
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>With Hydro Pump exclusive to Rotom-W and STAB Thunder tearing apart many Pokemon, Rain Dance is a very appealing option for Rotom-W. After setting up the rain, Rotom-W can fire off pseudo-STAB Hydro Pumps at Ground-types or use STAB Thunder for 30% chance of paralysis to aggravate the opponent. Thanks to STAB Thunder scaring most Water-type, excluding Swampert, it makes it difficult for the opponent to use the rain effectively against Rotom-W. While Shadow Ball is the best option for slot four, Hidden Power Ice hits Grass-types such as Roserade and Breloom harder. If Celebi is the main concern to this set, Shadow Ball can easily 2HKO it. Shadow Ball is preferred over Hidden Power Ice because Cresselia and other Rotom Appliances won’t enjoy constant Shadow Ball attacks.</p>
<p>This set can be played either offensively or defensively. Offensively, Rotom-W should use either Life Orb or Damp Rock as the item. Life Orb gives Rotom-W the extra boost needed to significantly damage Zapdos and Swampert. Damp Rock lengthens the number of turns in the rain, thus giving Rotom-W and its teammates more time to abuse the weather. Defensive strategies can also use Damp Rock; however, Leftovers is a good choice to keep Rotom-W alive longer. Although Modest is the recommended nature, Timid can be used to outrun Adamant Lucario. If Rotom-W needs to be bulkier than what is suggested, use either the RestTalk or the Double Status spreads with a Calm or Bold nature. </p>
<p>With such threatening moves to work with, not many Pokemon can switch into this set safely. However, the best counter available is still Blissey. With the absence of Trick on this set, Blissey will be able to come in and Wish up to heal her teammates, or use Toxic on Rotom-W to shorten its lifespan. The extremely rare Quagsire is also a pretty solid counter to this set, boasting immunities to both Thunder and Hydro Pump, thanks to Water Absorb and its partial Ground typing. With enough Special Defense EVs, Quagsire can survive numerous Shadow Balls or Hidden Power Ices as well. Swampert works similarly, but it does not have Water Absorb. Tyranitar can also counter this set effectively, using its Sand Stream ability to wipe away the rain. It can then use powerful moves like Crunch or Payback to knock Rotom-W out of play if Hydro Pump does not kill it first.</p>
<p>To counter Blissey, Kingdra is a great Pokemon to work alongside this version of Rotom-W. Kingdra can take advantage of the Rain and use a Substitute + Dragon Dance combo to block Blissey's Toxic and Flamethrower, Ice Beam, or Thunderbolt. Kingdra can then proceed to sweep the opponent's team. Toxicroak is immune to poison and can heal turn by turn using its Dry Skin ability, while threatening Blissey with Cross Chop. Lucario is another dependable partner to work with Rotom-W; however, since this Rotom-W is used in Rain Dance teams, it is recommended that you use partners that benefit from the rainy weather. Choice Band Dugtrio can help pick off threats like Blissey and Tyranitar, who otherwise wreck this set, so it is a good choice of partner, too.</p>
[SET]
name: Rest + Sleep Talk
move 1: Rest
move 2: Sleep Talk
move 3: Discharge / Shadow Ball
move 4: Hydro Pump / Hidden Power Ice / Will-O-Wisp / Hidden Power Fighting
item: Leftovers
nature: Calm
evs: 252 HP / 136 Def / 120 SpD
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>This set provides a highly defensive approach to using Rotom-W. The lack of recovery is a problem for defensive Rotom-W; however, Rest and Sleep Talk compensate for this. When choosing the corresponding move, Rotom-W must be aware of what it should do. Discharge and Hydro Pump give Rotom-W the difference between its other formes. It can handle Heatran that dare switch into Rotom-W thanks to the 66% chance of either selecting the super effective Hydro Pump or Discharge. If Discharge paralyzes Heatran, it can be defeated next turn by Hydro Pump. Discharge and Will-O-Wisp allow Rotom-W to use pseudo Double Status while sleeping. Hidden Power Ice and Discharge offer nearly ideal coverage, being able to nail common Ground- and Grass-type switch-ins, while Shadow Ball and Hidden Power Fighting go the full distance, offering unparalleled perfect coverage. The EVs here are recommended for balance of both defenses. If wanted, Rotom-W can invest into more Defense or Special Defense for certain threats. With more Defense, Rotom-W can intercept Metagross easier while more Special Defense gives Rotom-W the ability to counter Zapdos and Starmie easier.</p>
<p>As of DPP, it's probably safe to say that the Rotom formes are the best spin blockers in the game. Because of this, Rest + Sleep Talk Rotom-W is often seen in stall teams as a status absorber and as a spin blocker. Lucario is a great stall breaker, and is a concern to stall teams, especially if it manages to set up on a sleeping Rotom-W. Tyranitar can greatly take advantage of Rotom-W when it is Resting to set up Dragon Dance or use Pursuit and Crunch. Blissey still beats this set unless Toxic Spikes is in play. However, it sure is nice to be able to shrug off Blissey's Toxic for once. Again, anything that can set up against this Rotom-W, such as Salamence (although it must beware of Hidden Power Ice), will give it a hard time, especially when you're relying luck to choose the correct move in the process of Sleep Talking.</p>
<p>Many members of stall teams are highly effective when paired with Rotom-W. Skarmory is one of them. In addition to boasting high Defense and the ability to set up Spikes, Skarmory and Rotom-H help cover each other's weaknesses. Spikes support is often necessary to help Rotom-H score OHKOs with its mediocre Special Attack, as no Special Attack EVs are invested in this set. Gyarados is also able to take +2 Lucario's Close Combat and attack it with Waterfall or Roar it away, although Gliscor is definitely a better Lucario counter. Blissey is another excellent teammate. Without the ability to use instant recovery moves, Blissey's Wish can aid the survival of Rotom-W. In addition, Blissey's Fighting-type weakness is covered by Rotom-W, while Rotom-W's Ghost-type weakness is covered by Blissey. Swampert also helps Rotom-W; with Earthquake, it is able to harm Tyranitar and Heatran. Without Swampert's assistance, Heatran can easily come in on a snoozing Rotom-W and set up a Substitute to cause problems or attack it. Still, Swampert must be wary of Hidden Power Grass. Rotom-W's greatest Toxic Spikes partner is Drapion. Both of them cover each other's weaknesses perfectly and function as a formidable defensive force. Tentacruel is also acceptable because it can help Rotom-W against MixApe and Heatran, but Drapion is still the better option.</p>
[SET]
name: Dual Screens
move 1: Reflect
move 2: Light Screen
move 3: Discharge / Shadow Ball
move 4: Hydro Pump / Hidden Power Ice / Hidden Power Fighting
item: Light Clay
nature: Bold
evs: 252 HP / 100 Def / 100 SpD / 56 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>With the ability to come in on many Pokemon in the OU metagame, such as Metagross, Bronzong, and Togekiss, Rotom-W is an excellent user of Dual Screens. Reflect and Light Screen aid Rotom-W's teammates and provide protection if they decide to set up. Discharge and Hidden Power Ice provide coverage resisted only by Magnezone, Lanturn, and Shedinja in the game, while Shadow Ball and Hidden Power Fighting provide coverage resisted by nothing. Hydro Pump, however, allows Rotom-W to win against the likes of Infernape and Heatran, provided that Light Screen is up.</p>
<p>The Speed EVs outrun Adamant Tyranitar while the defenses are balanced to take advantage of both Reflect and Light Screen. Light Clay is the preferred item; however, Leftovers can also be used to keep Rotom-W healthy.</p>
<p>Lucario is one of the best teammates to have along with Rotom-W, and it will have a much easier time setting up a Swords Dance or two with Dual Screens in play. If Rotom-W is revenge killed by Dark- or Ghost-type moves, Lucario resists these attacking types and can use this as an opportunity to set up. Beware of Gengar, however. Previously mentioned teammates like Scizor and Tyranitar are great as well, but make sure they are able to make the most out of the dual screens and use Swords Dance and Dragon Dance respectively to set up. Gyarados and Salamence can also use their bulk to set up. Anything with a set up move and has enough defenses to be protected by dual screens are ideal teammates; take Jirachi, for example. If Jirachi is ever threatened by a Ground-type move, Rotom-W is immune to it and can help Jirachi take Earthquakes, Earth Powers, and the like. In return, Jirachi helps demolish Tyranitar, Blissey, and Gengar.</p>
[SET]
name: Boosting Sweeper
move 1: Substitute
move 2: Charge Beam
move 3: Shadow Ball
move 4: Thunderbolt / Hidden Power Fighting
item: Leftovers
nature: Timid
evs: 64 HP / 232 SpA / 212 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
<p>Although one of the lesser used options, Charge Beam allows Rotom-W to attack while having a large chance to boost its already high Special Attack. When combined with Substitute, Rotom-W is even more capable of setting up on Blissey, a Pokemon that would normally wall a special attacking Rotom-W set. Seismic Toss has no effect on Rotom-W and Flamethrower / Ice Beam do not break Rotom-W's Substitutes due to the slight HP investment. Substitute also allows Rotom to block any Thunder Wave or Toxic that Blissey might launch at it. Shadow Ball is Rotom-W's main form of attack once it has received boosts from Charge Beam, capable of 3HKOing even 252 HP / 96 SpD Sassy Bronzong after a single boost. Hidden Power Fighting allows Rotom-W to take on incoming Tyranitar hoping to munch down on the wily ghost. After six boosts, Rotom-W is capable of 2HKOing even 0 HP / 176 SpD Calm Blissey (the bulkiest Blissey that Rotom will likely encounter) with either Hidden Power Fighting or Thunderbolt. Thunderbolt is also Rotom-W's best choice of attack against Scizor.</p>
<p>As previously mentioned, 64 HP EVs allow Rotom-W's Substitutes to withstand any attack that Blissey is likely to use, as well as allowing Rotom-W to form three Substitutes in sand and five in normal weather. A Timid nature and 212 EVs allows Rotom-W to outspeed positive-Speed natured Mamoswine and neutral-Speed natured Lucario. Using 212 Speed EVs also allows Rotom-W to reach a bonus point. 232 Special Attack EVs allow Rotom-W to almost always 2HKO 0 HP / 176 SpD Calm Blissey with Hidden Power Fighting or Thunderbolt after six boosts as well as having a 38% chance of 2HKOing 252 HP / 252 SpD Careful Tyranitar in sandstorm after a single boost with Hidden Power Fighting; it becomes a definite 2HKO if Tyranitar switches into Stealth Rock.</p>
<p>In order for Rotom-W to have an easier time with the bulkiest of walls, entry hazard support is greatly beneficial when used in tandem with this set. As previously mentioned, Skarmory and Drapion help it out immensely due to them being solid defensive partners alongside this Rotom-W.</p>
<p>While this set seems incredibly destructive once Rotom-W has used Charge Beam a fair number of times, anything that is faster than it and that can deal astounding damage to it is the key to defeating it. Even Tyranitar and Blissey can fall to this set; most of the time, a sacrifice must be made in order to defeat this Rotom forme. If not, you will need to use pivoting skills to the best of your ability. Examples of what can threaten this Rotom-W include Infernape, Scarf Heatran, Weavile, Jolteon, and Salamence. Ground-types can also block Charge Beam, disabling Rotom-W from executing the strategy of this set properly. Latias is a good teammate that helps Rotom-W against Infernape, Heatran, and Jolteon. Latias can also use Surf to harm Hippowdon, Rhyperior, and the like. Swampert can wall Heatran, Jolteon (without Hidden Power Grass) and Salamence somewhat effectively. A bulky Water-type, like Suicune, can also support Rotom-W by eliminating the likes of Heatran, Infernape, and Gengar before they can trouble Rotom-W later in the match.</p>
[Team Options]
<p>Bulky Ground-types are extremely supportive team members that pair well with Rotom-W. This is because a powerful move like a Draco Meteor coming from Salamence can bring about Rotom-W's doom. Swampert is the one that especially shines, due to being able to counter Tyranitar, Jolteon, Weavile, and other threatening attackers. Lucario and Drapion work with Rotom-W to cover each other's weaknesses, and both of them can take advantage of a Choice Banded Pursuit to set up a Swords Dance. Scizor is also good at taking care of other common Rotom-W counters, like Latias, Gengar, and Snorlax. Steel-types like Metagross and Bronzong also help Rotom-W take Toxic coming from Blissey and other defensively oriented Pokemon.</p>
<p>Entry hazards can greatly help Rotom-W, especially on offensive variants like Choice Scarf, Choice Specs, and the Boosting Sweeper sets. Stealth Rock and Spikes can wear down an opponent to the point that Rotom-W can simply pick them off one by one with powerful Thunderbolts, Shadow Balls, and its signature Hydro Pumps. Thankfully, Levitate renders Spikes and Toxic Spikes useless against Rotom-W, which is a great characteristic, especially against stall teams. Don't abuse Rotom-W's power, however; know what it can and can't kill. At the same time, watch out for Pursuit.</p>
<p>Offensive Rotom-W variants should be paired with Pokemon that are able to pick off Rotom-W's counters (for example, Scizor and Lucario). Defensive Rotom-W variants should be paired with typical members of stall (for example, Blissey and Skarmory), since stall is where the Rest + Sleep Talk Spin-blocking Rotom-W truly belongs. Rotom-W with Rain Dance should always be paired with Pokemon that function well in the rain, like Floatzel. Machamp and Lucario can also be used, but Swift Swimmers are, in the long run, more effective. The Dual Screener should be paired with Pokemon that are defensive enough to make use of Reflect and Light Screen, but that is also able to set up (for example, Jirachi and Dragonite).</p>
[Other Options]
<p>Hidden Power Grass works in tandem with Thunderbolt or Discharge to eliminate Swampert but Shadow Ball can usually wear him down. Charge Beam and Hydro Pump work on the RestTalk set if Rotom-W desires more power while maintaining its bulky physique. Confuse Ray pairs well with Discharge, though the annoyer role is best left to Rotom-F thanks to Air Slash's flinch chance. Thunder Wave and Toxic are Rotom-W’s other status moves available. Thunder Wave guarantees paralysis while Toxic cripples bulky Pokemon such as Zapdos. Ominous Wind and Charge are Rotom-W’s other options to bolster its stats. Spite and Protect allow Rotom-W to PP stall; however, it is better left to Dusknoir and Spiritomb thanks to Pressure.</p>
[EVs]
<p>There are many ways to actually go about EVing Rotom-W so great care is needed. The offensive spread should focus on Speed and Special Attack almost entirely. Any other sets should always focus on maximizing HP with the exception of the Boosting Sweeper which should use 64 HP EVs to prevent most Blissey's Flamethrowers and Ice Beams from breaking your Substitutes. Speed EVs become more important when considering what Rotom-W should outpace. With Choice Scarf and 184 Speed EVs Rotom-W reaches 418 Speed with a Timid nature, just enough to outpace even the fastest Heatran. 88 Speed EVs with a neutral nature outpaces at the very least max Speed Adamant Scizor. From there, the dilemma is how to distribute the remaining EVs among the defenses. Once EVs are placed, pick a nature that compliments the chosen spread. For example, you would want to use a Bold nature if you opt to use 168 Defense EVs. 154 Speed EVs obtain 246 Speed, just enough to also outpace Tyranitar with a Jolly nature. Timid with 212 Speed EVs outruns Adamant Lucario, Mamoswine, and Gyarados.</p>
<p>Generally, Rotom-W enjoys balanced defenses so you should opt for a spread that achieves this. Both 252 HP / 136 Def / 120 SpD with a Calm nature or 252 HP / 120 Def / 136 SpD with a Bold nature accomplish this goal. 252 HP / 116 Def / 140 SpD with a Bold nature is another possibility with the Double Screen set. This set adds more of a buffer against neutral Psychics from Azelf possibly avoiding a 2HKO at best as well as what was mentioned with the original EV spread.</p>
[Opinion]
<p>Hydro Pump is Rotom-W's forte and it is an excellent offensive move. It gives Rotom-W the ability to retaliate against Ground-types. It also makes Heatran and other Fire-types have second thoughts on whether to switch into Rotom-W. It is arguably one of the best defensive anti-spinners in the game, but it is no slouch on the offensive either. Rain Dance is menacing when used with Rotom-W thanks to Hydro Pump being boosted by the rain. Rotom-W is a Pokemon that should not be underestimated as it is backed up by its numerous resistances, excellent defenses, modest Special Attack, and acceptable Speed. The aforementioned Hydro Pump and Rain Dance are the main reasons to use the washing machine Rotom over its other formes though.</p>
[Counters]
<p>Blissey is one of Rotom-W’s better counters, if not the best. It is a very dominant special wall that sponges every special attack from Rotom-W and heals off the damage with either Wish or Softboiled. Natural Cure makes Blissey an even better candidate since it can remove status upon switching out. The only set that Blissey should fear is the Substitute / Charge Beam Rotom-W. Trick + Choice item is, however, a nuisance to Blissey, so caution is advised when switching into Rotom-W. Tyranitar doesn’t enjoy Hydro Pump, Hidden Power Fighting, or Will-O-Wisp, but can easily step into Thunderbolt and Shadow Ball while Pursuiting Rotom-W. Pokemon with Rest and Sleep Talk, especially Spiritomb, are the best counters to most of Rotom-W's strategies. Spiritomb takes neutral damage from every one of Rotom-W’s attacks and sports STAB Shadow Ball or Dark Pulse to eliminate it. Swampert with Curse and Waterfall sets up on Rotom-W that lack Shadow Ball and Hidden Power Grass. With Substitute and Calm Mind, Jirachi and Raikou can set up against Rotom-W as well. Heatran, despite being frightened of switching into Hydro Pump, can absorb Will-O-Wisp and return the favor with a STAB, Flash Fire boosted Fire Blast.</p>
<p>Recently, the Boosting Sweeper set has experienced an increase in terms of usage and popularity. Blissey can even be defeated by this set if she lacks the resources to consistently damage Rotom-W, and this is a grave concern! For this reason, it is important to know how to counter it. Pokemon like Hippowdon, Spiritomb, Snorlax, and Swampert are recognized as excellent counters. Ground-types, specifically, are immune to Charge Beam and can thus prevent Rotom-W from earning additional Special Attack boosts (however, they must still beware of Hydro Pump)! Interestingly, even Scizor does particularly well against this set, taking not too much damage from Hidden Power Fighting.</p>
