OU Rotom-W

[OVERVIEW]

Rotom-W is a useful support Pokemon in the OU metagame thanks to its access to Defog as well as other utility options like Will-O-Wisp. Furthermore, its ability to force out some common entry hazard setters such as Landorus-T, Ash-Greninja, and Heatran makes it an effective Defogger. Rotom-W's good defensive typing in combination with Levitate also allows it to check common offensive threats such as Mega Scizor, non-Firium Z Heatran, and Mega Pinsir. Access to Volt Switch makes Rotom-W an effective pivot, and its Volt Switches are particularly difficult to block because its Water typing allows it to threaten Ground-types like Landorus-T, Excadrill, and Zygarde. However, Rotom-W's lack of reliable recovery hurts it as a defensive Pokemon, and it also makes it more easily worn down over the course of a match. It is also not as bulky as it seems on paper due to its low HP stat.

[SET]
name: Defensive
move 1: Hydro Pump
move 2: Volt Switch
move 3: Will-O-Wisp / Pain Split
move 4: Defog
item: Iapapa Berry / Leftovers
ability: Levitate
nature: Bold
evs: 248 HP / 204 Def / 56 Spe

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

Hydro Pump is a strong Water-type STAB attack that hits Pokemon such as Landorus-T, Mega Diancie, Heatran, Blacephalon, and Tyranitar. Volt Switch gives Rotom-W an Electric-type STAB move that allows it to pivot out and create momentum as well as hit Pokemon that resist Hydro Pump such as Keldeo and Ash-Greninja. Will-O-Wisp cripples Pokemon like Mega Scizor, Mega Mawile, and Kyurem-B, as well as preventing Tapu Bulu from coming in for free. Alternatively, Pain Split improves Rotom-W's longevity and gives it a form of recovery, allowing it to switch in and check the Pokemon it's supposed to more reliably throughout the course of a match. Defog gives Rotom-W the ability to remove entry hazards, which allows it to act as an effective utility Pokemon and support hazard-weak teammates like Volcarona, Mega Charizard X, and Zapdos.

Set Details
========

56 Speed EVs let Rotom-W outrun Adamant Choice Band Tyranitar. The rest of the EVs are put into Defense and HP with a Bold nature to allow Rotom-W to check threats such as Mega Scizor, Mega Pinsir, Landorus-T, and Greninja as reliably as possible. However, more specially defensive spreads are also an option. 248 HP / 124 Def / 80 SpD / 56 Spe allows Rotom-W to always avoid the 2HKO from Choice Scarf Blacephalon's Shadow Ball and OHKO in return with Hydro Pump, at the cost of some physical bulk. Iapapa Berry allows Rotom-W to take powerful attacks such as Choice Specs Blacephalon's Shadow Ball, Choice Scarf Latios's Draco Meteor, and Ash-Greninja's Dark Pulse after Stealth Rock damage and gain back 50% of its HP afterwards. Leftovers can be used instead for more consistent recovery over time. Levitate helps versus some Ground-types such as defensive Landorus-T and also allows Rotom-W to avoid certain Ground-type attacks that would otherwise give it trouble such as Heatran's Earth Power.

Usage Tips
========

Rotom-W should be brought in on Pokemon that cannot touch it such as Heatran, Mega Scizor, and Protean Greninja and use the opportunity to Defog if needed or fire off a Volt Switch. As Rotom-W doesn't have any recovery, it can be worn down very easily. Consider risk vs reward when switching it into even powerful resisted attacks such as Ash-Greninja's Hydro Pump and Choice Specs Blacephalon's Fire Blast and whether or not you need it for later in the game. Volt Switch should usually be used if Rotom-W is not needed to remove hazards or KO a Pokemon with Hydro Pump, as it allows it to gain momentum for its team while damaging its answers. Will-O-Wisp is generally useful versus physical attackers that Rotom-W cannot KO outright such as Mega Scizor and Mega Mawile. It can also be used to chip away at checks such as Mega Venusaur and Assault Vest Magearna, but simply hitting Volt Switch is sometimes a better option in such a scenario.

Team Options
========

Hazard-weak Pokemon such as Blacephalon, Mega Pinsir, and Kyurem-B appreciate Rotom-W's ability to remove Stealth Rock from the field with Defog. These Pokemon are also able to pressure Grass-types like Mega Venusaur and Tapu Bulu for it. Rotom-W's access to a slow Volt Switch means that it works well with wallbreakers such as Mega Medicham, Mega Mawile, and Tyranitar, as it's able to get them safely onto the field to start breaking down teams. Other Volt Switch and U-turn users such as Landorus-T, Magearna, and Mega Scizor can form an effective VoltTurn core with Rotom-W. Despite its access Levitate, Rotom-W is still vulnerable to several common Ground-types; Zygarde always uses Thousand Arrows, offensive Landorus-T commonly runs Rockium Z or Smack Down, and Excadrill has Mold Breaker. Thus, checks to offensive Ground-types such as Tapu Bulu, defensive Landorus-T, and Kartana are good partners. Pokemon such as Heatran, Volcarona, and Kyurem-B are able to take advantage of the bulky Grass-types like Ferrothorn and Mega Venusaur that Rotom-W lures in.

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

A more offensive set with Hydro Pump / Volt Switch / Hidden Power Fire / Defog, Waterium Z, and an EV spread of 196 HP / 252 SpA / 56 Spe is an option. This set allows Rotom-W to pressure bulkier entry hazard setters more effectively with a strong Z-Move at the cost of some of its defensive utility. Thunder Wave can be used to cripple faster Pokemon that don't mind a burn such as Tapu Lele and Latios, but the utility of other options is generally more useful. Thunderbolt gives Rotom-W a more powerful Electric-type STAB attack that doesn't force it out, but it is difficult to justify using over other moves. Sitrus Berry is also an option over Iapapa Berry, as it is easier to activate but recovers less HP. A Choice Scarf + Trick set can be used for the surprise factor, but being locked into an Electric-type move isn't great and other Choice Scarf users are generally better.

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

**Grass-types**: Grass-types resist Rotom-W's dual STAB combination and can generally hit it hard in return with their super effective Grass-type attacks. Kartana and Tapu Bulu can force it out but can't reliably switch in due to the threat of Will-O-Wisp. Tangrowth, Ferrothorn, and Mega Venusaur take very little from any of Rotom-W's attacks, but the latter two can be worn down quickly with the combination of Will-O-Wisp and Volt Switch.

**Dragon-types**: Latios resists both of Rotom-W's STAB attacks and 2HKOes it with Draco Meteor. Kyurem-B and Zygarde outspeed Rotom-W and 2HKO it with Earth Power and Thousand Arrows, respectively. However, they don't enjoy taking a Will-O-Wisp, although Substitute Zygarde is able to block it, and Substitute + Protect Zygarde can even stall out Hydro Pump's PP.

**Ground-types**: Despite its access to Levitate, a number of offensive Ground-types have ways of breaking through Rotom-W. Offensive Landorus-T outruns Rotom-W and can OHKO it with Earthquake if Gravity is up or OHKO it with a +2 Continental Crush. Zygarde 2HKOes Rotom-W with Thousand Arrows and takes little from Hydro Pump, though it must be wary of Will-O-Wisp. Excadrill has Mold Breaker and can OHKO Rotom-W with Earthquake after a little chip damage. Gastrodon is immune to both of Rotom-W's STAB attacks and can wear it down slowly with Toxic.

**Specially Defensive Pokemon**: Specially defensive Pokemon that don't mind status can generally check Rotom-W fairly reliably. Clefable and Reuniclus are able to consistently switch into Rotom-W because of their high special bulk and access to recovery and are immune to burns thanks to Magic Guard. Chansey can heal off burns with Natural Cure and has the special bulk to consistently switch into Rotom-W's attacks.

**Strong Attackers**: In general, strong attackers are able to quickly overwhelm Rotom-W because its bulk is undermined by its low HP stat and lack of reliable recovery. Rockium Z Landorus-T can use Swords Dance as Rotom-W switches in and OHKO it with a powerful Continental Crush. Firium Z Heatran has the power to 2HKO Rotom-W on the switch, provided that Magma Storm hits, and it can even take a Hydro Pump if needed. Z-Move Hoopa-U variants are able to easily blow back Rotom-W thanks to their sheer power, although Fightinium Z Hoopa-U needs Rotom-W to be damaged first in order to secure the OHKO. Choice Specs Tapu Lele can OHKO Rotom-W from full with Psychic, and other variants are able to 2HKO Rotom-W and take a hit from it if needed. Shift Gear Magearna is able to set up on Rotom-W and blow it away with a powerful Z-Move after some chip damage. Magnezone can take one attack from Rotom-W if needed, and Electrium Z variants are able to OHKO it with Gigavolt Havoc.

**Residual Damage**: Rotom-W is easily worn down by residual damage such as having to switch into Stealth Rock, losing its Leftovers to Knock Off users such as Landorus-T and Mega Scizor, and Toxic from Pokemon like Heatran and Toxapex, as it limits its opportunities to switch in and ability to consistently come in and remove entry hazards from the field.
 
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Gary

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instead, try to bring it in versus more passive hazard setters that can't touch it such as clefable and defensive landorus-t, and use the opportunity to remove any hazards on the field or fire off a powerful z-move.
I don't really think Clef is a great example because Moonblast still chunks Rotom-W quite a lot and it's forced to Hydro Vortex if it wants to do any real significant damage to it. Softboiled can outstall Hydros.

Personally I think Pain Split should be slashed after Wisp on the defensive set. If you team doesn't really mind those physical attackers that much, being able to keep Rotom-W healthy as much as possible is very useful. Otherwise, Iapapa isn't really enough to keep it healthy throughout the match, especially when it's going to be pivoting into attacks more often than the offensive set.

Looks good otherwise. QC 1/3
 

Jukain

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overview
  • good defensive typing + levitate lets it check common offensive threats like greninja, heatran, and mega pinsir
it's actually a good check to some of the common prot gren sets now (scarf/hazards), but it's not really a viable check until they reveal that they are not ash gren, as rotom gets obliterated by specs dark pulse. i think zor is a better choice to mention here. also, you should specify non-firium for tran because firium tran just breaks through rotom.

offensive
  • be careful about mindlessly switching this set into powerful attackers such as ash-greninja, blacephalon, and mega lopunny, as its bulk only goes so far and its worn down easily
i think this is a valid point, and you can extend it by saying that this rotom set tends to have the capability to serve as a one-time answer to mons like the ones you mentioned (in a 1v1 scenario), and not much beyond that. it's not even a matter of mindlessly switching it in - offensive rotom (or really any rotom for that matter) is just not really a switch-in to the mons you mentioned.

you're overselling offensive rotom-w's mu vs ferro. in the 1v1, rotom gets destroyed by power whip (50% chance to die after rocks) and only does like 30-35 with hp fire after leech, so it's really only effective if the ferro goes for hazards or you're hitting ferro on the switch. it's useful for that, but rotom still does not pressure and force out ferro effectively in a 1v1. lando and clef are better examples of mons you can actually come into and force out effectively.

i think it's worth mentioning that hydro vortex prevents volc from getting up a quiver on you, which is a big deal because it means you actually win the 1v1 vs volc no matter what. it's also nice to have against zard x, allowing you to ohko it in the 1v1.

defensive
split helps rotom check stuff longer (as you said), but it also gives rotom a bit more utility vs defensive cores/teams, especially sapping hp from chansey and other defensive mons like gastro/clef.
  • will-o-wisp is generally useful versus physical attackers that rotom-w cannot KO outright such as mega scizor and mega mawile. it can also be used to chip away at checks such as mega venusaur and tangrowth, but simply hitting volt switch is usually a better option in such a scenario.
you aren't necessarily wrong to say that volt can be a better play, but especially in the case of venu, a mon that hates anything that wears it down, wisp is actually a big deal. you outspeed venu, so you can still volt before it does anything, and when you factor rocks, ~10 from volt, and the extra 6.25 from burn, venu is losing a quarter of its hp to switch into rotom. basically what wisp does against mons like venu (and av mage for that matter) is it makes switching into rotom more costly.

checks and counters
small things on what you already have: you should mention that having venu as your only switch-in can be a bit sketchy because volts+wisp wear it down pretty fast and can wear it down pretty quickly if you're not finding times to recover your hp. also, i think you should mention sub and particularly subtect when you mention zyg because sub blocks wisp and subtect even allows you to potentially stall hydros.

although calling mons that rotom can volt on counters would be disingenuous, i think there's definitely a few more defensive mons you can mention that don't mind/ignore status and can easily tank hits from rotom. for example, av mage even tanks hydro vortex with ease and doesn't mind wisp, and then you have other things like clef/reuniclus/chansey (all pretty good vs defensive rotom due to mg/natural cure+reasonable bulk+reliable recovery, chansey tanks offensive rotom with ease as well).

i think your checks and counters section would be improved if you included a section on 'strong attackers' or something to that effect. even some of the mons that rotom commonly checks or would otherwise be able to check can break through it pretty easily with z moves/boosted attacks. you mention continental crush lando, but it's not the only thing - firium tran beats rotom after rocks on the switch-in as long as magma hits, and any type of powerful non-resisted attack in general (especially z-moves) pretty much destroys rotom, though iapapa on defensive variants definitely helps with that a bit. in that section, you can also mention the likes of hoopa-u, z-move mage, lele, and zone (especially timid because it outspeeds) which are offensive checks that can switch into rotom once if needed as easily pressure/force it out.

you allude to it in places throughout the analysis, but i think it would be good to include a section on passive damage/wearing rotom down that mentions toxic and knock off (for defensive rotom) in particular, which you can run on mons like lando and zor that otherwise have trouble with rotom, as well as other things like rocks and repeated uturns/volts that quickly take rotom out of the hp range where it can actually deal with threats. this is general counterplay to any mon of course, but it's especially relevant for rotom.

general
nitpick: both sets should drop to 56 speed evs instead of 60. i'd agree that it would be helpful to outrun defensive lando, but the issue is that this spread is speed creep, in addition to the fact there's no standard lando speed. although the analysis spread suggests 16, people run spreads as fast as 290 on defensive lando at times, and even less extreme spreads frequently run more than 16 evs. therefore you should just ev for the cb tar benchmark (56 speed evs).

nitpick: considering that levitate is rotom's only ability, you don't need to justify why you're using it, and mentioning it in the overview already explains its utility, so there's no need to put it into set details as well.
 
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Leo

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overview
it's actually a good check to some of the common prot gren sets now (scarf/hazards), but it's not really a viable check until they reveal that they are not ash gren, as rotom gets obliterated by specs dark pulse. i think zor is a better choice to mention here. also, you should specify non-firium for tran because firium tran just breaks through rotom.
Add this
i think this is a valid point, and you can extend it by saying that this rotom set tends to have the capability to serve as a one-time answer to mons like the ones you mentioned (in a 1v1 scenario), and not much beyond that. it's not even a matter of mindlessly switching it in - offensive rotom (or really any rotom for that matter) is just not really a switch-in to the mons you mentioned.
Yeah I agree with this, just say that Rotom can 1v1 these mons in a pinch if it's healthy enough but in general that's not how you should be using this set.
i think it's worth mentioning that hydro vortex prevents volc from getting up a quiver on you, which is a big deal because it means you actually win the 1v1 vs volc no matter what. it's also nice to have against zard x, allowing you to ohko it in the 1v1.
You actually don't always win the 1v1, if you have already revealed it's offensive rotom the Volc user can just ohko it with its z-move (its a roll but always kills after rocks) so you're in a 50-50 scenario where you can sacrifice Rotom to prevent a Quiver Dance or risk the opponent QDing as you switch out. I think you're better off not mentioning this since that scenario isn't common enough to deserve its own bullet.
you're overselling offensive rotom-w's mu vs ferro. in the 1v1, rotom gets destroyed by power whip (50% chance to die after rocks) and only does like 30-35 with hp fire after leech, so it's really only effective if the ferro goes for hazards or you're hitting ferro on the switch. it's useful for that, but rotom still does not pressure and force out ferro effectively in a 1v1. lando and clef are better examples of mons you can actually come into and force out effectively.
Yeah, just mention how Rotom can surprise Ferrothorn on the switch with HP Fire but shouldn't try to 1v1 it because of whip.
you aren't necessarily wrong to say that volt can be a better play, but especially in the case of venu, a mon that hates anything that wears it down, wisp is actually a big deal. you outspeed venu, so you can still volt before it does anything, and when you factor rocks, ~10 from volt, and the extra 6.25 from burn, venu is losing a quarter of its hp to switch into rotom. basically what wisp does against mons like venu (and av mage for that matter) is it makes switching into rotom more costly.
I think he meant that Rotom shouldnt try to cripple mons like Venu and Tangrowth with Wisp in a 1v1 scenario because they can chunk it with Giga Drain, but it's definitely worth mentioning that a Wisp on the switch can be pretty annoying for them

Add the rest from here, you can keep Levitate in Details if you want but I don't mind it being removed since it was mentioned already

offensive fire-types such as mega charizard x, victini, and blacephalon pair well with this set, as they benefit from its ability to remove hazards with defog and they can punish bulky-grass types such as tangrowth and tapu bulu in return.
I don't think Victini is the best example since it's wallbreaking sets are borderline unviable and it's Celebrate set is meant to sweep lategame and does very little damage before setting up so it can't take advantage of Volt Switch properly.
rotom-w should be brought in on pokemon that cannot touch it such as heatran, mega scizor, and greninja and use the opportunity to defog if needed or fire off a volt switch.
Specify Protean, Specs Dark Pulse can chunk Rotom pretty significantly so you shouldn't try to switch into that.

QC 2/3 sorry this took so long x.x
 
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Colonel M

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Both sets are missing 4 EVs, but it's fine because I'm going to request moving offensive Rotom-W into OO (top mention). Thanks false. for the catch on that.

- Slash Leftovers on Defensive.
-Remove any offensive ROtom-W mentions and leave it to OO if possible.

Tag me when you got these, I'll come back with a real check afterwards. Sorry.
 
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Both sets are missing 4 EVs, but it's fine because I'm going to request moving offensive Rotom-W into OO (top mention). Thanks false. for the catch on that.

- Slash Leftovers on Defensive.
-Remove any offensive ROtom-W mentions and leave it to OO if possible.

Tag me when you got these, I'll come back with a real check afterwards. Sorry.
implemented this. I only have mobile access atm so i apologize if i missed anything.
 

GMars

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Colonel M has relinquished the check to me:

248 HP / 120 Def / 80 SpD / 60 Spe allows Rotom-W to always avoid the 2HKO from Choice Scarf Blacephalon's Shadow Ball and OHKO in return with Hydro Pump, at the cost of some physical bulk.
Why the bump up from 56 Spe -> 60 here? Justify it if it's not just creeping the 222 block (222 / Scizor (Mega), Tapu Bulu / 75 / Neutral / 144 / 0, 222 / Landorus-Therian / 91 / Neutral / 16 / 0, 222 / Rotom-Wash / 86 / Neutral / 56 / 0, 222 / Venusaur (Mega) / 80 / Neutral / 108 / 0)), otherwise drop it back down to 56 to avoid that kind of speed creep on the dex

Rotom-W should be brought in on Pokemon that cannot touch it such as Heatran, Mega Scizor, and Greninja and use the opportunity to Defog if needed or fire off a Volt Switch.
Specify Protean Greninja here like Leo requested unless that's against GP rules

Great work. QC 3/3
 
Colonel M has relinquished the check to me:


Why the bump up from 56 Spe -> 60 here? Justify it if it's not just creeping the 222 block (222 / Scizor (Mega), Tapu Bulu / 75 / Neutral / 144 / 0, 222 / Landorus-Therian / 91 / Neutral / 16 / 0, 222 / Rotom-Wash / 86 / Neutral / 56 / 0, 222 / Venusaur (Mega) / 80 / Neutral / 108 / 0)), otherwise drop it back down to 56 to avoid that kind of speed creep on the dex


Specify Protean Greninja here like Leo requested unless that's against GP rules

Great work. QC 3/3
did both, ready for gp!
 

Mr. Uncompetitive

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Fuck i nearly forgot to finish this. Not much had to be changed though.

GP 1/2

(im assuming you know what the colors mean)

[OVERVIEW]

Rotom-W is a useful support Pokemon in the OU metagame thanks to its access to Defog, as well as other utility options like Will-O-Wisp. Furthermore, its ability to force out some common hazard setters such as Landorus-T, Ash-Greninja, and Heatran makes it an effective user of the move. Rotom-W's good defensive typing in combination with Levitate also allows it to check common offensive threats such as Mega Scizor, non-Firium Z Heatran, and Mega Pinsir. Access to Volt Switch makes Rotom-W an effective pivot, and its Volt Switches are particularly difficult to block because its Water typing allows it to threaten Ground-types like Landorus-T, Excadrill, and Zygarde. However, Rotom-W's lack of reliable recovery hurts it as a defensive Pokemon, and it also makes it more easily worn down over the course of a match. It is also not as bulky as it seems on paper due to its low HP stat.

[SET]
name: Defensive
move 1: Hydro Pump
move 2: Volt Switch
move 3: Will-O-Wisp / Pain Split
move 4: Defog
item: Iapapa Berry / Leftovers
ability: Levitate
nature: Bold
evs: 248 HP / 204 Def / 56 Spe

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

Hydro Pump is a strong Water-type STAB attack that hits Pokemon such as Landorus-T, Mega Diancie, Heatran, Blacephalon, and Tyranitar. Volt Switch gives Rotom-W an Electric-type STAB move that allows it to pivot out and create momentum, as well as hit Pokemon that resist Hydro Pump such as Keldeo and Ash-Greninja. Will-O-Wisp cripples Pokemon like Mega Scizor, Mega Mawile, and Kyurem-B, as well as preventing Tapu Bulu from coming in for free. Alternatively, Pain Split improves Rotom-W's longevity and gives it a form of recovery, allowing it to switch in and check the Pokemon it's supposed to more reliably throughout the course of a match. Defog gives Rotom-W the ability to remove hazards, which allows it to act as an effective utility Pokemon and support hazard-weak teammates like Volcarona, Mega Charizard X, and Zapdos.

Set Details
========

56 Speed EVs lets let Rotom-W outrun maximum Speed (I don't think this distinction needs to be noted...) Adamant Choice Band Tyranitar. The rest of the EVs are put into Defense and HP with a Bold nature to allow Rotom-W to check threats such as Mega Scizor, Mega Pinsir, Landorus-T, and Greninja as reliably as possible. However, more specially defensive spreads are also an option. 248 HP / 124 Def / 80 SpD / 56 Spe allows Rotom-W to always avoid the 2HKO from Choice Scarf Blacephalon's Shadow Ball and OHKO in return with Hydro Pump, at the cost of some physical bulk. Iapapa Berry allows Rotom-W to take powerful attacks such as Choice Specs Blacephalon's Shadow Ball, Choice Scarf Latios's Draco Meteor, and Ash-Greninja's Dark Pulse after Stealth Rock damage and then gain back 50% of its HP afterwards. Leftovers can be used instead for more consistent recovery over time. Levitate helps vs some Ground-types such as defensive Landorus-T and also allows Rotom-W to avoid certain Ground-type attacks that would otherwise give it trouble such as Heatran's Earth Power.

Usage Tips
========

Rotom-W should be brought in on Pokemon that cannot touch it such as Heatran, Mega Scizor, and Protean Greninja and use the opportunity to Defog if needed or fire off a Volt Switch. As Rotom-W doesn't have any recovery, it can be worn down very easily. Considerrisk vs reward when switching it into even powerful resisted attacks such as Ash-Greninja's Hydro Pump and Choice Specs Blacephalon's Fire Blast and whether or not you need it for later in the game. Volt Switch should usually be used if Rotom-W is not needed to remove hazards or KO a Pokemon with Hydro Pump, as it allows it to gain momentum for its team while damaging its answers. Will-O-Wisp is generally useful versus physical attackers that Rotom-W cannot KO outright such as Mega Scizor and Mega Mawile. It can also be used to chip away at checks such as Mega Venusaur and Assault Vest Magearna, but simply hitting Volt Switch is sometimes a better option in such a scenario.

Team Options
========

Hazard-weak Pokemon such as Blacephalon, Mega Pinsir, and Kyurem-B appreciate Rotom-W's ability to remove Stealth Rock from the field with Defog. These Pokemon are also able to pressure Grass-types like Mega Venusaur and Tapu Bulu for it. Rotom-W's access to a slow Volt Switch means that it works well with wallbreakers such as Mega Medicham, Mega Mawile, and Tyranitar, as it's able to get them safely onto the field to start breaking down teams. Other Volt Switch and U-turn users such as Landorus-T, Magearna, and Mega Scizor can form an effective VoltTurn core with Rotom-W. Despite its access Levitate, Rotom-W is still vulnerable to several common Ground-types; Zygarde always uses Thousand Arrows, offensive Landorus-T commonly runs Rockium Z or Smack Down, and Excadrill has Mold Breaker. As such, checks to offensive Ground-types such as Tapu Bulu, defensive Landorus-T, and Kartana are good partners. Pokemon such as Heatran, Volcarona, and Kyurem-B are able to take advantage of the bulky Grass-types like Ferrothorn and Mega Venusaur that Rotom-W lures in.

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

A more offensive set with Hydro Pump / Volt Switch / Hidden Power Fire / Defog, (AC) Waterium Z, (AC) and with an EV spread of 196 HP / 252 SpA / 56 Spe is an option. This set allows Rotom-W to pressure bulkier hazard setters more effectively with a strong Z-Move at the cost of some of its defensive utility. Thunder Wave can be used to cripple faster Pokemon that don't mind a burn such as Tapu Lele and Latios, but the utility of other options is generally more useful. Thunderbolt gives Rotom-W a more powerful Electric-type STAB attack that doesn't force it out, but it is difficult to justify using over other moves. Sitrus Berry is also an option over Iapapa Berry, as it is easier to activate but recovers less HP. A Choice Scarf + Trick set can be used for the surprise factor, but being locked into an Electric-type move isn't great and other Choice Scarf users are generally better.

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

**Grass-types**: Grass-types resist Rotom-W's dual STAB combination and can generally hit it hard in return with their super effective Grass-type attacks. Kartana and Tapu Bulu can force it out but can't reliably switch-in switch in due to the threat of Will-O-Wisp. Tangrowth, Ferrothorn, and Mega Venusaur take very little from any of Rotom-W's attacks, but the latter two can be worn down quickly with the combination of Will-O-Wisp and Volt Switch.

**Dragon-types**: Latios resists both of Rotom-W's STAB attacks and 2HKOes it with Draco Meteor. Kyurem-B and Zygarde outspeed Rotom-W and 2HKO it with Earth Power and Thousand Arrows respectively. However, they don't enjoy taking a Will-O-Wisp, although Substitute Zygarde is able to block it, and Substitute + Protect Zygarde can even stall out Hydro Pump's PP.

**Ground-types**: Despite its access to Levitate, a number of offensive Ground-types have ways of breaking through Rotom-W. Offensive Landorus-T outruns Rotom-W and can OHKO it with Earthquake if Gravity is up or a +2 Continental Crush. Zygarde 2HKOes Rotom-W with Thousand Arrows and takes little from Hydro Pump, though it must be wary of Will-O-Wisp. Excadrill has Mold Breaker and can OHKO Rotom-W with Earthquake after a little chip damage. Gastrodon is immune to both of Rotom-W's STAB attacks and can wear it down slowly with Toxic.

**Specially Defensive Pokemon**: Specially defensive Pokemon that don't mind status can generally check Rotom-W fairly reliably. Clefable and Reuniclus are able to consistently switch into Rotom-W because of their high special bulk and access to recovery and are immune to burns thanks to Magic Guard. Chansey can heal off burns with Natural Cure and has the special bulk to consistently switch into Rotom-W's attacks.

**Strong Attackers**: In general, strong attackers are able to quickly overwhelm Rotom-W because its bulk is undermined by its low HP stat and lack of reliable recovery. Rockium Z Landorus-T can use Swords Dance as Rotom-W switches in and OHKO it with a powerful Continental Crush. Firium Z Heatran has the power to 2HKO it on the switch, provided that Magma Storm hits, and it can even take a Hydro Pump if needed. Z-Move Hoopa-U variants are able to easily blow back Rotom-W thanks to their sheer power, although Fightinium Z Hoopa-U needs Rotom-W to be damaged first in order to secure the OHKO. Choice Specs Tapu Lele can OHKO Rotom-W from full with Psychic, and other variants are able to 2HKO Rotom-W and take a hit from it if needed. Shift Gear Magearna is able to set up on Rotom-W and blow it away with a powerful Z-Move after some chip damage. Magnezone can take one attack from Rotom-W if needed, and Electrium Z variants are able to OHKO it with Gigavolt Havoc.

**Residual Damage**: Rotom-W is easily worn down by residual damage such as having to switch into Stealth Rock, losing its Leftovers to Knock Off users such as Landorus-T and Mega Scizor, and Toxic from Pokemon like Heatran and Toxapex, as it limits its switch-in opportunities and ability to consistently come in and remove hazards from the field.
 
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GP 2/2
[OVERVIEW]

Rotom-W is a useful support Pokemon in the OU metagame thanks to its access to Defog (RC) as well as other utility options like Will-O-Wisp. Furthermore, its ability to force out some common entry hazard setters such as Landorus-T, Ash-Greninja, and Heatran makes it an effective user of the move hazard remover. (or w/e, resolving "the move" ambiguity) Rotom-W's good defensive typing in combination with Levitate also allows it to check common offensive threats such as Mega Scizor, non-Firium Z Heatran, and Mega Pinsir. Access to Volt Switch makes Rotom-W an effective pivot, and its Volt Switches are particularly difficult to block because its Water typing allows it to threaten Ground-types like Landorus-T, Excadrill, and Zygarde. However, Rotom-W's lack of reliable recovery hurts it as a defensive Pokemon, and it also makes it more easily worn down over the course of a match. It is also not as bulky as it seems on paper due to its low HP stat.

[SET]
name: Defensive
move 1: Hydro Pump
move 2: Volt Switch
move 3: Will-O-Wisp / Pain Split
move 4: Defog
item: Iapapa Berry / Leftovers
ability: Levitate
nature: Bold
evs: 248 HP / 204 Def / 56 Spe

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

Hydro Pump is a strong Water-type STAB attack that hits Pokemon such as Landorus-T, Mega Diancie, Heatran, Blacephalon, and Tyranitar. Volt Switch gives Rotom-W an Electric-type STAB move that allows it to pivot out and create momentum (RC) as well as hit Pokemon that resist Hydro Pump such as Keldeo and Ash-Greninja. Will-O-Wisp cripples Pokemon like Mega Scizor, Mega Mawile, and Kyurem-B, as well as preventing Tapu Bulu from coming in for free. Alternatively, Pain Split improves Rotom-W's longevity and gives it a form of recovery, allowing it to switch in and check the Pokemon it's supposed to more reliably throughout the course of a match. Defog gives Rotom-W the ability to remove entry hazards, which allows it to act as an effective utility Pokemon and support hazard-weak teammates like Volcarona, Mega Charizard X, and Zapdos.

Set Details
========

56 Speed EVs let Rotom-W outrun Adamant Choice Band Tyranitar. The rest of the EVs are put into Defense and HP with a Bold nature to allow Rotom-W to check threats such as Mega Scizor, Mega Pinsir, Landorus-T, and Greninja as reliably as possible. However, more specially defensive spreads are also an option. 248 HP / 124 Def / 80 SpD / 56 Spe allows Rotom-W to always avoid the 2HKO from Choice Scarf Blacephalon's Shadow Ball and OHKO in return with Hydro Pump, at the cost of some physical bulk. Iapapa Berry allows Rotom-W to take powerful attacks such as Choice Specs Blacephalon's Shadow Ball, Choice Scarf Latios's Draco Meteor, and Ash-Greninja's Dark Pulse after Stealth Rock damage and then gain back 50% of its HP afterwards. Leftovers can be used instead for more consistent recovery over time. Levitate helps vs versus some Ground-types such as defensive Landorus-T and also allows Rotom-W to avoid certain Ground-type attacks that would otherwise give it trouble such as Heatran's Earth Power.

Usage Tips
========

Rotom-W should be brought in on Pokemon that cannot touch it such as Heatran, Mega Scizor, and Protean Greninja and use the opportunity to Defog if needed or fire off a Volt Switch. As Rotom-W doesn't have any recovery, it can be worn down very easily. Consider risk vs reward when switching it into even powerful resisted attacks such as Ash-Greninja's Hydro Pump and Choice Specs Blacephalon's Fire Blast and whether or not you need it for later in the game. Volt Switch should usually be used if Rotom-W is not needed to remove hazards or KO a Pokemon with Hydro Pump, as it allows it to gain momentum for its team while damaging its answers. Will-O-Wisp is generally useful versus physical attackers that Rotom-W cannot KO outright such as Mega Scizor and Mega Mawile. It can also be used to chip away at checks such as Mega Venusaur and Assault Vest Magearna, but simply hitting Volt Switch is sometimes a better option in such a scenario.

Team Options
========

Entry hazard-weak Pokemon such as Blacephalon, Mega Pinsir, and Kyurem-B appreciate Rotom-W's ability to remove Stealth Rock from the field with Defog. These Pokemon are also able to pressure Grass-types like Mega Venusaur and Tapu Bulu for it. Rotom-W's access to a slow Volt Switch means that it works well with wallbreakers such as Mega Medicham, Mega Mawile, and Tyranitar, as it's able to get them safely onto the field to start breaking down teams. Other Volt Switch and U-turn users such as Landorus-T, Magearna, and Mega Scizor can form an effective VoltTurn core with Rotom-W. Despite its access Levitate, Rotom-W is still vulnerable to several common Ground-types; Zygarde always uses Thousand Arrows, offensive Landorus-T commonly runs Rockium Z or Smack Down, and Excadrill has Mold Breaker. As such, Thus, checks to offensive Ground-types such as Tapu Bulu, defensive Landorus-T, and Kartana are good partners. Pokemon such as Heatran, Volcarona, and Kyurem-B are able to take advantage of the bulky Grass-types like Ferrothorn and Mega Venusaur that Rotom-W lures in.

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

A more offensive set with Hydro Pump / Volt Switch / Hidden Power Fire / Defog, Waterium Z, and an EV spread of 196 HP / 252 SpA / 56 Spe is an option. This set allows Rotom-W to pressure bulkier entry hazard setters more effectively with a strong Z-Move at the cost of some of its defensive utility. Thunder Wave can be used to cripple faster Pokemon that don't mind a burn such as Tapu Lele and Latios, but the utility of other options is generally more useful. Thunderbolt gives Rotom-W a more powerful Electric-type STAB attack that doesn't force it out, but it is difficult to justify using over other moves. Sitrus Berry is also an option over Iapapa Berry, as it is easier to activate but recovers less HP. A Choice Scarf + Trick set can be used for the surprise factor, but being locked into an Electric-type move isn't great and other Choice Scarf users are generally better.

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

**Grass-types**: Grass-types resist Rotom-W's dual STAB combination and can generally hit it hard in return with their super effective Grass-type attacks. Kartana and Tapu Bulu can force it out but can't reliably switch in due to the threat of Will-O-Wisp. Tangrowth, Ferrothorn, and Mega Venusaur take very little from any of Rotom-W's attacks, but the latter two can be worn down quickly with the combination of Will-O-Wisp and Volt Switch.

**Dragon-types**: Latios resists both of Rotom-W's STAB attacks and 2HKOes it with Draco Meteor. Kyurem-B and Zygarde outspeed Rotom-W and 2HKO it with Earth Power and Thousand Arrows, (AC) respectively. However, they don't enjoy taking a Will-O-Wisp, although Substitute Zygarde is able to block it, and Substitute + Protect Zygarde can even stall out Hydro Pump's PP.

**Ground-types**: Despite its access to Levitate, a number of offensive Ground-types have ways of breaking through Rotom-W. Offensive Landorus-T outruns Rotom-W and can OHKO it with Earthquake if Gravity is up or OHKO it with a +2 Continental Crush. Zygarde 2HKOes Rotom-W with Thousand Arrows and takes little from Hydro Pump, though it must be wary of Will-O-Wisp. Excadrill has Mold Breaker and can OHKO Rotom-W with Earthquake after a little chip damage. Gastrodon is immune to both of Rotom-W's STAB attacks and can wear it down slowly with Toxic.

**Specially Defensive Pokemon**: Specially defensive Pokemon that don't mind status can generally check Rotom-W fairly reliably. Clefable and Reuniclus are able to consistently switch into Rotom-W because of their high special bulk and access to recovery and are immune to burns thanks to Magic Guard. Chansey can heal off burns with Natural Cure and has the special bulk to consistently switch into Rotom-W's attacks.

**Strong Attackers**: In general, strong attackers are able to quickly overwhelm Rotom-W because its bulk is undermined by its low HP stat and lack of reliable recovery. Rockium Z Landorus-T can use Swords Dance as Rotom-W switches in and OHKO it with a powerful Continental Crush. Firium Z Heatran has the power to 2HKO it Rotom-W on the switch, provided that Magma Storm hits, and it can even take a Hydro Pump if needed. Z-Move Hoopa-U variants are able to easily blow back Rotom-W thanks to their sheer power, although Fightinium Z Hoopa-U needs Rotom-W to be damaged first in order to secure the OHKO. Choice Specs Tapu Lele can OHKO Rotom-W from full with Psychic, and other variants are able to 2HKO Rotom-W and take a hit from it if needed. Shift Gear Magearna is able to set up on Rotom-W and blow it away with a powerful Z-Move after some chip damage. Magnezone can take one attack from Rotom-W if needed, and Electrium Z variants are able to OHKO it with Gigavolt Havoc.

**Residual Damage**: Rotom-W is easily worn down by residual damage such as having to switch into Stealth Rock, losing its Leftovers to Knock Off users such as Landorus-T and Mega Scizor, and Toxic from Pokemon like Heatran and Toxapex, as it limits its switch-in opportunities to switch in and ability to consistently come in and remove entry hazards from the field.
 
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