Since the DLC2 release, it has been evident that Dragon-type teams have been extremely overpowering in the current metagame, forcing the entire metagame to revolve around Dragon-type teams as a result. It is also undeniable that Gouging Fire is arguably one of the most significant Pokemon that push Dragon-type teams over the top. Gouging Fire is a very unique Pokemon, a type of Pokemon that the tier has never dealt with throughout the generations. Upon its release with the DLC2 metagame, Gouging Fire was quick to establish itself as a key fixture on both Dragon and Fire type teams due to a range of key characteristics that neither type has been blessed with over the years. Despite being a relatively popular type in previous metagames, the lack of a reliable defensive backbone to fall back on was always a major limiting factor Dragon-type teams had. However, that changed to a great extent with the release of Gouging Fire; Gouging Fire's most commonly used bulky Dragon Dance set provides a very distinctive defensive piece for Dragon type teams with reliable recovery, something that was previously unheard of for Dragon-type teams. Its remarkable bulk allows it to successfully check a myriad of different threats such as Hatterene, Enamorus, Greninja, Flutter Mane and Gholdengo; most of which prove to be extremely threatening to Dragon and Fire type teams otherwise. Moreover, its specially defensive sets are extremely difficult to account for, as would be checks such as Choice Scarf Enamorus and Draco Meteor Archaludon fail to deal with it reliably, allowing it to spiral out of control after a few boosts. It also has the luxury of amazing teammates that can complement its role perfectly well on Dragon type teams. Pokemon like Arcahludon and Goodra-H can also form very reliable defensive cores when paired with Gouging Fire.
Albeit most of Gouging Fire's dominance is displayed on Dragon-type teams, it has proven to be overbearing on Fire-type teams too at times. While most Dragon-type teams opt for the more predictable bulky Dragon Dance set, it is not as simple on Fire teams as Gouging Fire has adapted to successfully pull off a handful of unique sets on Fire teams (Dragon Dance + Morning Sun with unique coverage, Dragon Dance + 3 Attacks or even Choice Band sets among others); each of which mandates slightly different counterplay, making it nigh impossible to account for all possible sets without compromising the rest of the team. It also provides Fire-type teams with a fairly reliable switch-in against most Water-type attacks. Gouging Fire has amazing support on Fire-type teams as well, being provided with 8-turn sun allowing it to utilize its ability to the fullest, while enhancing its breaking capabilities to the next level. Moreover, it also has the luxury of Healing Wish support from Ninetales on Fire teams.
All that said, Gouging Fire does come with a few limitations. For starters, its speed tier has left much to be desired in the current metagame; its bulky Dragon Dance set has proven to be extremely slow, failing to outspeed a number of significant Pokemon prior to getting multiple Dragon Dance boosts. Similarly, while its Choice Band set hits extremely hard, it is also arguably slow and unreliable at times in this current fast-paced metagame. Moreover, most of its sets are extremely reliant on Heavy-Duty Boots to function efficiently, as both Dragon and Fire-type teams lack reliable hazard control options.
All in all, many argue that Gouging Fire has pushed both types to an unhealthy extent, while others believe it is just very good but not broken. So, is it truly broken? The ball is in your court now. Be sure to post your thoughts on Gouging Fire!
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In order to cast a vote in this suspect test, you must participate on the [Gen 9] Monotype ladder in which Gouging Fire will continue to be allowed. You must make a new account to ladder with. This account's registration date must be at earliest the day this suspect begins. You must prefix your account name with the tag: GOFI3 in order for your account to qualify. Tagging dhelmise to implement this on the ladder!
The requirement for qualification is at least 82% GXE and at least 40 games played. The suspect test will last two weeks until Sunday, February 25th @ 11:59 PM EST (GMT-5). You will then have three days to cast your vote. Gouging Fire will require a 60% majority of voters in favor of banning it in order for it to be banned from Monotype.
Upon meeting the requirements, you must post proof of the qualification in the Voter Identification thread, which is separate from this thread and will be created closer to the end of the suspect. Do not post your proof in this discussion thread.
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