[OVERVIEW]
Hydreigon is a premier special attacker in UU thanks to its exceptional power and respectable Speed tier. Its spammable STAB combination, great coverage, and access to a few different utility options allow it to viably run a plethora of sets, including Choice Scarf, Choice Specs, and a stallbreaking set that utilizes Taunt. Hydreigon also has respectable bulk for an offensive Pokemon, with resistances that allow it to easily take on Pokemon like Chandelure, Mega Houndoom, and Gliscor. Moreover, its access to Defog allows it to function as a reliable offensive entry hazard remover that can clear hazards when it forces switches. However, Hydreigon's typing also provides it with weaknesses to common types in Bug, Fighting, and especially Fairy, which can at times limit its opportunities to switch in. Hydreigon is also weak to priority attacks like Mach Punch and Vacuum Wave, which can allow the likes of Breloom and Lucario to pick it off with some prior damage. Lastly, Hydreigon suffers from the presence of faster threats despite its decent Speed tier, meaning that Pokemon such as Latias, Cobalion, and Mega Beedrill can easily outrun non-Choice Scarf sets and force Hydreigon out.
[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Draco Meteor
move 2: Dark Pulse
move 3: U-turn
move 4: Fire Blast
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Draco Meteor is Hydreigon's most powerful STAB attack and is useful for revenge killing setup sweepers like Serperior, Haxorus, and Hone Claws Mega Aerodactyl. Dark Pulse is a spammable STAB attack that, in addition to providing good overall coverage, reliably lets Hydreigon revenge kill Pokemon like Celebi, Doublade, and Gengar. U-turn safely pivots Hydreigon out of play while chipping common switch-ins such as Primarina, Mega Altaria, and Blissey. Fire Blast covers Steel-types that otherwise tank Hydreigon's attacks, with some examples being Cobalion, bulky Scizor, and Klefki. Defog is an option that can be run over Fire Blast in order to quickly remove entry hazards on forced switches.
Set Details
========
252 EVs invested in Speed with a Timid nature give Hydreigon a respectable amount of Speed. Choice Scarf further adds onto this, turning Hydreigon into a reliable revenge killer and allowing it to outrun the entire unboosted metagame. 252 EVs invested in Special Attack give Hydreigon's attacks a considerable amount of power, especially for a Choice Scarf user. Levitate is the only ability available, but it can be utilized to freely switch into the likes of Swampert and Choice-locked Krookodile.
Usage Tips
========
Hydreigon's decent defensive typing and bulk allow it to pivot into attacks it resists or is immune to, such as Scald from Alomomola and unboosted Leaf Storm from Serperior, to then begin forcing switches with its good Speed and power. It should also look to come in through the support of a pivot or as a foe is setting up in order to guarantee a reliable revenge kill. Due to the fact that many of its attacks can be punished when locked into, Hydreigon should carefully predict as it does its job. For example, if Alolan Muk or Togekiss is expected to switch in, pivoting out with U-turn would be optimal, while predicted Steel-type switch-ins such as Cobalion should be nailed with Fire Blast. Hydreigon should also be careful as it uses Draco Meteor due to the potential threat of a Pokemon like Scizor or Mega Altaria receiving an easy opportunity to punish Hydreigon and set up. If running Defog, Hydreigon can use it to clear entry hazards as it forces switches. It can also attempt using the move in emergency situations, such as when entry hazards are on its side of the field and a Pokemon weak to them is desperate for their removal. If opposing offensive teams have been sufficiently weakened, Hydreigon can attempt to use its above average Speed and power to clean up with Dark Pulse.
Team Options
========
This set's ability to function as a reliable, powerful way to keep faster threats in check allows it to fit very well on offensive teams, in addition to fitting on really any other team archetype other than dedicated stall. Because of this set's lack of Steel-type coverage, Fairy-type checks are fairly important to pair with Hydreigon. Scizor, Magneton, and Stakataka can all check Fairy-types for Hydreigon while in return appreciating its ability to switch into Fire-type attacks. Fighting-type checks like Mantine and Latias can come in on or offensively pressure a few huge thorns in Hydreigon's side in Terrakion, Mienshao, and Infernape. Physical wallbreakers like Crawdaunt and Alolan Marowak are capable of breaking past the specially bulky Pokemon Hydreigon hates dealing with, thus improving its chances of a potential late-game sweep. Nidoking is a particularly helpful partner for this set, as through the use of Superpower or Taunt, it can weaken its shared checks with Hydreigon while also breaking past Blissey, which enables a late-game sweep.
[SET]
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Draco Meteor
move 2: Dark Pulse
move 3: Flash Cannon / U-turn
move 4: Fire Blast / U-turn
item: Choice Specs
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Draco Meteor is a devastatingly powerful STAB attack with Choice Specs equipped, OHKOing the majority of offensive Pokemon while even cutting into defensive Pokemon like Hippowdon and Alolan Muk. Dark Pulse is a spammable STAB attack with no drawbacks and good neutral coverage. Flash Cannon can be used to catch Fairy-types on the switch, 2HKOing even Sylveon and Florges after entry hazard damage. Fire Blast rounds off Hydreigon's coverage, giving it a way to hit Steel-types like Klefki, Cobalion, and Mega Aggron for super effective damage. U-turn can be used over either Flash Cannon or Fire Blast for to allowing Hydreigon to pivot out of predicted switch-ins such as Blissey, Primarina, and defensive Azumarill. It can also potentially allow Hydreigon to bluff a Choice Scarf set.
Set Details
========
Full investment in Special Attack with Choice Specs equipped maximizes Hydreigon's damage output. Full Speed investment with a Timid nature gives Hydreigon as much Speed as possible, notably allowing it to outrun threats such as Haxorus and Krookodile. Levitate grants Hydreigon opportunities to switch in against passive Ground-types like Hippowdon and Swampert.
Usage Tips
========
This set looks to wallbreak throughout the early and middle stages of a match, meaning that Hydreigon should look to switch in on Pokemon like Volcanion, Rotom-C, and Chandelure in order to get off a powerful hit. If it cannot find an opportunity to switch in, it should seek support from a pivot or come in after a teammate has fainted. Due to Choice Specs locking Hydreigon into one move, it should be wary of switch-ins and look to either pivot out or nail them with super effective coverage. For example, if a Fairy-type like Sylveon or Togekiss is expected to switch in, Hydreigon should look to use Flash Cannon to hit them super effectively, while it should try pivoting out with U-turn against predicted switch-ins from specially bulky Pokemon like Blissey and the rare Umbreon. Draco Meteor should be used liberally once reliable switch-ins are weakened due to its immense power. Dark Pulse can also be spammed freely throughout later portions of the game due to its good neutral coverage and flinch chance. One thing to keep in mind is that this set is prone to being worn down, which means that entry hazard damage and status conditions should be avoided if possible.
Team Options
========
Powerful physical attackers appreciate Hydreigon's ability to break past physical walls while in return taking care of specially bulky Pokemon. Lucario and Cobalion are especially notably examples, due to their ability to take on both Blissey and Fairy-types. Other Fairy-type checks, such as Nihilego, Scizor, and Mega Aggron, are capable of offensively pressuring the likes of Sylveon, Primarina, and Azumarill for Hydreigon. Fighting-type checks like Crobat and Latias can apply pressure to major thorns in Hydreigon's side like Infernape, Cobalion, and Heracross. Late-game cleaners such as Mega Sharpedo, Scizor, and Gengar are appreciative of Hydreigon's ability to weaken opposing teams for them to more easily break through. VoltTurn support from Pokemon like Mega Beedrill, Rotom-C, and Infernape can safely bring Hydreigon into play while also chipping foes for it to more easily muscle past. Lastly, clerics such as Sylveon and Togekiss can prove useful to Hydreigon on bulky offense teams due to its lack of recovery and vulnerability to status.
[SET]
name: Life Orb Attacker
move 1: Draco Meteor
move 2: Dark Pulse
move 3: Roost / Flash Cannon
move 4: Fire Blast / Flash Cannon
item: Life Orb
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Draco Meteor is Hydreigon's strongest available STAB attack and has very limited switch-ins. Dark Pulse heavily damages Psychic- and Ghost-types like Latias and Jellicent while also hitting the majority of the tier for neutral damage. Roost provides Hydreigon with a way of reliably recovering its health. Fire Blast covers Steel-types that may attempt coming in on Draco Meteor, such as Klefki. Flash Cannon is an option over either Roost or Fire Blast for 2HKOing Togekiss and Sylveon, which otherwise wall Hydreigon, after Stealth Rock damage. Iron Tail can be used for a harder hit against specially defensive Fairy-types including Florges and Sylveon, though it has poor accuracy and requires that Hydreigon uses a nature that decreases one of its defensive stats. Superpower is also an option that can be used to lure in Blissey and KO it, though it also forces Hydreigon to decrease its defenses so as not to run an Attack-reducing nature.
Set Details
========
Maximum investment in Special Attack gives Hydreigon a respectable amount of power. Maximum investment in Speed with a Timid nature makes Hydreigon as fast as possible, giving it key Speed advantages over threats like Haxorus and Krookodile. Life Orb gives Hydreigon the freedom of switching between its moves while putting more power behind its attacks. Levitate provides an immunity to Ground-type attacks that can be used to exploit Pokemon like Swampert.
Usage Tips
========
In order to maximize effectiveness, Hydreigon should look to come in on weak hits like Scald from Alomomola and Giga Drain from Amoonguss. It can then freely fire off its powerful attacks. However, prediction is required in order to 2HKO Pokemon like Sylveon on the switch with super effective coverage. It is important to be wary of Hydreigon's health throughout the match, as Life Orb damage will wear it down rather quickly. When it has been significantly worn down, it should thus look to restore its health with Roost. Lastly, Hydreigon should try spamming its STAB attacks as frequently as possible, which means that it is best that its common checks are removed or weakened before it is utilized in later stages of the game.
Team Options
========
Entry hazards from Pokemon like Azelf and Mega Aggron are useful for increasing Hydreigon's overall damage output. Physical wallbreakers are ideal for pairing with this set due to their ability to take on the majority of special walls for Hydreigon. Swords Dance Doublade is a notable example thanks to its ability to take care of both Blissey and Fairy-types. Other Fairy-type checks like Nidoking and Scizor can take care of big threats to Hydreigon in Sylveon and Mega Altaria. Lures like Iron Head Mega Aerodactyl and Gunk Shot Infernape are especially helpful due to their ability to surprise and KO most Fairy-types. Fast threats like Mega Aerodactyl and Mega Sceptile can take on revenge killers for Hydreigon, while the likes of Suicune and Mega Aggron can easily switch into the priority attacks that threaten it. Sweepers such as Terrakion and Stakataka enjoy Hydreigon's ability to weaken opposing teams for them to easily clean up late-game.
[SET]
name: Taunt
move 1: Taunt
move 2: Dark Pulse
move 3: Roost
move 4: Draco Meteor
item: Life Orb / Dragonium Z
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Taunt shuts down a large portion of specially defensive threats that can otherwise wall Hydreigon and attempt to cripple it, such as Blissey and Empoleon. Dark Pulse is a consistent STAB attack without drawbacks, hitting decently hard with the given investment. Roost provides Hydreigon with a reliable method of sustaining itself throughout a match, allowing it to consistently stallbreak. Draco Meteor is a powerful STAB attack that Hydreigon can use to muscle past offensive Pokemon like Nidoking and Mega Manectric. When Dragonium Z is activated, Draco Meteor becomes a powerful Devastating Drake that can be used to break a few defensive Pokemon without decreasing Hydreigon's Special Attack, such as Alomomola and Suicune after chip damage. Fire Blast is an option over Dark Pulse that can prove to be useful for weakening Steel-types like Cobalion and Scizor. However, it generally prevents Hydreigon from hitting a wider variety of foes due to Dark Pulse's better overall coverage.
Set Details
========
The given investment and nature maximize Hydreigon's power while giving it as much Speed as possible. Levitate is especially useful on this set, as Hydreigon can easily utilize it to shut down defensive Ground-types like Swampert and Hippowdon. Life Orb is the preferred item due to the respectable power it will put behind Hydreigon's attacks. Dragonium Z is also an option, however, for granting access to Devastating Drake in addition to minimizing Knock Off damage. It should only be used if another teammate is not holding a Z-Crystal, however.
Usage Tips
========
While not as powerful as other sets, Hydreigon looks to break past opposing teams, using Taunt whenever it needs to shut down a wall like Alomomola or Quagsire. Roost should be used whenever Hydreigon has been worn down a fair amount so as not to leave it open to a revenge killer. Lastly, Hydreigon should carefully count the turns in which the opposing Pokemon is crippled with Taunt, as if it doesn't continuously hit defensive foes with the move, they will be able to easily recover their health and stall it out.
Team Options
========
This set fits well on bulky offensive teams that appreciate a Pokemon capable of crippling and wearing down defensive threats. Entry hazard support is important to the success of this set, as Hydreigon forces many switches and will be able to rack up residual damage on foes in doing so. Toxic Spikes from Tentacruel or Mega Beedrill is particularly helpful due to its ability to further wear defensive foes down. Hydreigon's inability to break past the likes of Sylveon and Florges with this set makes checks to them like Mega Beedrill and Lucario good options as teammates. Fighting-types can also be useful if Hydreigon doesn't wish to use up a fair amount of PP breaking past Blissey. Cobalion and Terrakion are both notable examples due to their ability to also set Stealth Rock for Hydreigon if need be. Special sweepers that can have trouble breaking past bulky walls appreciate Hydreigon's ability to significantly chip them down with this set. Examples include Agility Moltres, Suicune, and particularly Salazzle, which, while not common, can apply huge pressure to Fairy-types for Hydreigon.
[SET]
name: Offensive Defog
move 1: Defog
move 2: Draco Meteor
move 3: Roost
move 4: Dark Pulse / Fire Blast
item: Life Orb / Dragonium Z
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Defog can be used to reliably remove entry hazards from the field. Draco Meteor is a powerful STAB attack that can be used to plow through Pokemon that can tank a Dark Pulse or Fire Blast and retaliate with heavy damage, like Nidoking, Krookodile, and Mega Sharpedo. Roost is a form of recovery that allows Hydreigon to frequently sustain itself. Dark Pulse is a consistent and powerful STAB attack that Hydreigon can liberally spam throughout the match. Fire Blast is an option for super effectively hitting common Steel-type switch-ins.
Set Details
========
Full investment in Special Attack maximizes Hydreigon's neutral-natured power, while Life Orb furthers its damage output. Dragonium Z can also be used, however, in order to grant Hydreigon access to Devastating Drake. Full investment in Speed with a Timid nature makes Hydreigon as fast as possible, allowing it to outrun a decent portion of the tier. Levitate provides a handy immunity to Ground-types, which can allow Hydreigon to pivot into them in order to easily remove entry hazards.
Usage Tips
========
This set should look to pivot in on Pokemon that it can force out, such as Chandelure and Celebi. From there, Hydreigon can remove entry hazards from the field. If entry hazards aren't in need of removal, Hydreigon should look to merely act as an offensive nuisance to opposing teams, (RC) due to its ability to punch holes easily with its powerful attacks. Dark Pulse should be used liberally throughout the match due to its exceptional overall coverage, though Draco Meteor should be used to OHKO Pokemon that could tank a hit and punish Hydreigon otherwise. Fire Blast should be used to catch Steel-types on the switch if being run. When it has been worn down significantly, Hydreigon should restore its health with Roost in order to remove entry hazards later on if need be.
Team Options
========
This set's nature as an offensive Defogger makes it an exceptional pick on most offensive playstyles. Pokemon like Volcanion, Mega Pidgeot, and Mega Aerodactyl appreciate Hydreigon's ability to remove entry hazards due to their Stealth Rock weakness. Pokemon that appreciate the removal of Ghost- and Psychic-types, like Infernape and Celebi, also enjoy having Hydreigon as a partner. Fairy- and Fighting-type checks, such as Doublade and Latias, are capable of dealing with common means of offensively pressuring Hydreigon. Physically offensive threats like Terrakion and Scizor can complement Hydreigon in that one covers physical walls while the other covers specially bulky foes.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
Hydreigon's access to Defog and reliable recovery can allow it to function as a decent defensive entry hazard remover given its several useful resistances. However, Hydreigon has a fair amount of common weaknesses as well and is also usually more consistent in an offensive role. Hydreigon can look to sweep with Work Up, which conveniently boosts both of its attacking stats, but it isn't hard to revenge kill and will often be hard pressed for moveslots. Belch + Poisonium Z is a compelling option for luring in and heavily damaging the majority of defensive Fairy-types, notably OHKOing the likes of Azumarill and Primarina. However, its main problem is its opportunity cost and the general waste of a moveslot once Acid Downpour has been used. Earth Power can be used on some sets for its good general coverage against most of the metagame, including Stakataka, Alolan Muk, and Klefki. Unfortunately, all of its targets are already hit quite hard by other coverage moves, and it's a rather poor move for Hydreigon to be locked into.
Checks and Counters
===================
**Fairy-types**: Fairy-types like Sylveon, Mega Altaria, and Klefki resist Hydreigon's STAB attacks and can OHKO it with their STAB attacks. All fear super effective coverage, however. Florges, Primarina, and Azumarill are particularly troublesome, as the latter two don't take super effective damage from any of Hydreigon's coverage options, while the former has enough special bulk to avoid a 2HKO from Life Orb-boosted Flash Cannon.
**Fighting-types**: Cobalion, Infernape, and Terrakion all naturally outspeed Hydreigon and can OHKO it with super effective STAB Close Combat. The latter two can also viably run Choice Scarf sets of their own, which outspeed and OHKO Hydreigon's Choice Scarf set. Infernape even carries priority in the form of STAB Mach Punch on its Choice Band set, which it can use to take advantage of even Choice Scarf sets. Breloom also carries Mach Punch, which will OHKO Hydreigon from full health with Stealth Rock down.
**Faster Threats**: While Hydreigon's Speed is above average, it still leaves it outrun by common threats in Latias, Mega Sceptile, and Mega Beedrill, which can all OHKO it with their respective STAB attacks. Faster Choice Scarf users such as Latias and Infernape can outrun even Hydreigon's Choice Scarf set and KO it.
**Specially Bulky Pokemon**: Pokemon with exceptional special bulk are often capable of repeatedly tanking hits from Hydreigon. Examples include Blissey, Alolan Muk, Empoleon, and notably Porygon2, which, while uncommon, can avoid the 2HKO from even Superpower.
**Strong Priority**: Hydreigon's bulk is decent, though it at times isn't enough to fend it off from some of the tier's more powerful priority attacks, which include Infernape and Breloom's Mach Punch, Lucario's Vacuum Wave, and Scizor's Bullet Punch, the former two of which are notable for hitting Hydreigon super effectively.
Hydreigon is a premier special attacker in UU thanks to its exceptional power and respectable Speed tier. Its spammable STAB combination, great coverage, and access to a few different utility options allow it to viably run a plethora of sets, including Choice Scarf, Choice Specs, and a stallbreaking set that utilizes Taunt. Hydreigon also has respectable bulk for an offensive Pokemon, with resistances that allow it to easily take on Pokemon like Chandelure, Mega Houndoom, and Gliscor. Moreover, its access to Defog allows it to function as a reliable offensive entry hazard remover that can clear hazards when it forces switches. However, Hydreigon's typing also provides it with weaknesses to common types in Bug, Fighting, and especially Fairy, which can at times limit its opportunities to switch in. Hydreigon is also weak to priority attacks like Mach Punch and Vacuum Wave, which can allow the likes of Breloom and Lucario to pick it off with some prior damage. Lastly, Hydreigon suffers from the presence of faster threats despite its decent Speed tier, meaning that Pokemon such as Latias, Cobalion, and Mega Beedrill can easily outrun non-Choice Scarf sets and force Hydreigon out.
[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Draco Meteor
move 2: Dark Pulse
move 3: U-turn
move 4: Fire Blast
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Draco Meteor is Hydreigon's most powerful STAB attack and is useful for revenge killing setup sweepers like Serperior, Haxorus, and Hone Claws Mega Aerodactyl. Dark Pulse is a spammable STAB attack that, in addition to providing good overall coverage, reliably lets Hydreigon revenge kill Pokemon like Celebi, Doublade, and Gengar. U-turn safely pivots Hydreigon out of play while chipping common switch-ins such as Primarina, Mega Altaria, and Blissey. Fire Blast covers Steel-types that otherwise tank Hydreigon's attacks, with some examples being Cobalion, bulky Scizor, and Klefki. Defog is an option that can be run over Fire Blast in order to quickly remove entry hazards on forced switches.
Set Details
========
252 EVs invested in Speed with a Timid nature give Hydreigon a respectable amount of Speed. Choice Scarf further adds onto this, turning Hydreigon into a reliable revenge killer and allowing it to outrun the entire unboosted metagame. 252 EVs invested in Special Attack give Hydreigon's attacks a considerable amount of power, especially for a Choice Scarf user. Levitate is the only ability available, but it can be utilized to freely switch into the likes of Swampert and Choice-locked Krookodile.
Usage Tips
========
Hydreigon's decent defensive typing and bulk allow it to pivot into attacks it resists or is immune to, such as Scald from Alomomola and unboosted Leaf Storm from Serperior, to then begin forcing switches with its good Speed and power. It should also look to come in through the support of a pivot or as a foe is setting up in order to guarantee a reliable revenge kill. Due to the fact that many of its attacks can be punished when locked into, Hydreigon should carefully predict as it does its job. For example, if Alolan Muk or Togekiss is expected to switch in, pivoting out with U-turn would be optimal, while predicted Steel-type switch-ins such as Cobalion should be nailed with Fire Blast. Hydreigon should also be careful as it uses Draco Meteor due to the potential threat of a Pokemon like Scizor or Mega Altaria receiving an easy opportunity to punish Hydreigon and set up. If running Defog, Hydreigon can use it to clear entry hazards as it forces switches. It can also attempt using the move in emergency situations, such as when entry hazards are on its side of the field and a Pokemon weak to them is desperate for their removal. If opposing offensive teams have been sufficiently weakened, Hydreigon can attempt to use its above average Speed and power to clean up with Dark Pulse.
Team Options
========
This set's ability to function as a reliable, powerful way to keep faster threats in check allows it to fit very well on offensive teams, in addition to fitting on really any other team archetype other than dedicated stall. Because of this set's lack of Steel-type coverage, Fairy-type checks are fairly important to pair with Hydreigon. Scizor, Magneton, and Stakataka can all check Fairy-types for Hydreigon while in return appreciating its ability to switch into Fire-type attacks. Fighting-type checks like Mantine and Latias can come in on or offensively pressure a few huge thorns in Hydreigon's side in Terrakion, Mienshao, and Infernape. Physical wallbreakers like Crawdaunt and Alolan Marowak are capable of breaking past the specially bulky Pokemon Hydreigon hates dealing with, thus improving its chances of a potential late-game sweep. Nidoking is a particularly helpful partner for this set, as through the use of Superpower or Taunt, it can weaken its shared checks with Hydreigon while also breaking past Blissey, which enables a late-game sweep.
[SET]
name: Choice Specs
move 1: Draco Meteor
move 2: Dark Pulse
move 3: Flash Cannon / U-turn
move 4: Fire Blast / U-turn
item: Choice Specs
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Draco Meteor is a devastatingly powerful STAB attack with Choice Specs equipped, OHKOing the majority of offensive Pokemon while even cutting into defensive Pokemon like Hippowdon and Alolan Muk. Dark Pulse is a spammable STAB attack with no drawbacks and good neutral coverage. Flash Cannon can be used to catch Fairy-types on the switch, 2HKOing even Sylveon and Florges after entry hazard damage. Fire Blast rounds off Hydreigon's coverage, giving it a way to hit Steel-types like Klefki, Cobalion, and Mega Aggron for super effective damage. U-turn can be used over either Flash Cannon or Fire Blast for to allowing Hydreigon to pivot out of predicted switch-ins such as Blissey, Primarina, and defensive Azumarill. It can also potentially allow Hydreigon to bluff a Choice Scarf set.
Set Details
========
Full investment in Special Attack with Choice Specs equipped maximizes Hydreigon's damage output. Full Speed investment with a Timid nature gives Hydreigon as much Speed as possible, notably allowing it to outrun threats such as Haxorus and Krookodile. Levitate grants Hydreigon opportunities to switch in against passive Ground-types like Hippowdon and Swampert.
Usage Tips
========
This set looks to wallbreak throughout the early and middle stages of a match, meaning that Hydreigon should look to switch in on Pokemon like Volcanion, Rotom-C, and Chandelure in order to get off a powerful hit. If it cannot find an opportunity to switch in, it should seek support from a pivot or come in after a teammate has fainted. Due to Choice Specs locking Hydreigon into one move, it should be wary of switch-ins and look to either pivot out or nail them with super effective coverage. For example, if a Fairy-type like Sylveon or Togekiss is expected to switch in, Hydreigon should look to use Flash Cannon to hit them super effectively, while it should try pivoting out with U-turn against predicted switch-ins from specially bulky Pokemon like Blissey and the rare Umbreon. Draco Meteor should be used liberally once reliable switch-ins are weakened due to its immense power. Dark Pulse can also be spammed freely throughout later portions of the game due to its good neutral coverage and flinch chance. One thing to keep in mind is that this set is prone to being worn down, which means that entry hazard damage and status conditions should be avoided if possible.
Team Options
========
Powerful physical attackers appreciate Hydreigon's ability to break past physical walls while in return taking care of specially bulky Pokemon. Lucario and Cobalion are especially notably examples, due to their ability to take on both Blissey and Fairy-types. Other Fairy-type checks, such as Nihilego, Scizor, and Mega Aggron, are capable of offensively pressuring the likes of Sylveon, Primarina, and Azumarill for Hydreigon. Fighting-type checks like Crobat and Latias can apply pressure to major thorns in Hydreigon's side like Infernape, Cobalion, and Heracross. Late-game cleaners such as Mega Sharpedo, Scizor, and Gengar are appreciative of Hydreigon's ability to weaken opposing teams for them to more easily break through. VoltTurn support from Pokemon like Mega Beedrill, Rotom-C, and Infernape can safely bring Hydreigon into play while also chipping foes for it to more easily muscle past. Lastly, clerics such as Sylveon and Togekiss can prove useful to Hydreigon on bulky offense teams due to its lack of recovery and vulnerability to status.
[SET]
name: Life Orb Attacker
move 1: Draco Meteor
move 2: Dark Pulse
move 3: Roost / Flash Cannon
move 4: Fire Blast / Flash Cannon
item: Life Orb
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Draco Meteor is Hydreigon's strongest available STAB attack and has very limited switch-ins. Dark Pulse heavily damages Psychic- and Ghost-types like Latias and Jellicent while also hitting the majority of the tier for neutral damage. Roost provides Hydreigon with a way of reliably recovering its health. Fire Blast covers Steel-types that may attempt coming in on Draco Meteor, such as Klefki. Flash Cannon is an option over either Roost or Fire Blast for 2HKOing Togekiss and Sylveon, which otherwise wall Hydreigon, after Stealth Rock damage. Iron Tail can be used for a harder hit against specially defensive Fairy-types including Florges and Sylveon, though it has poor accuracy and requires that Hydreigon uses a nature that decreases one of its defensive stats. Superpower is also an option that can be used to lure in Blissey and KO it, though it also forces Hydreigon to decrease its defenses so as not to run an Attack-reducing nature.
Set Details
========
Maximum investment in Special Attack gives Hydreigon a respectable amount of power. Maximum investment in Speed with a Timid nature makes Hydreigon as fast as possible, giving it key Speed advantages over threats like Haxorus and Krookodile. Life Orb gives Hydreigon the freedom of switching between its moves while putting more power behind its attacks. Levitate provides an immunity to Ground-type attacks that can be used to exploit Pokemon like Swampert.
Usage Tips
========
In order to maximize effectiveness, Hydreigon should look to come in on weak hits like Scald from Alomomola and Giga Drain from Amoonguss. It can then freely fire off its powerful attacks. However, prediction is required in order to 2HKO Pokemon like Sylveon on the switch with super effective coverage. It is important to be wary of Hydreigon's health throughout the match, as Life Orb damage will wear it down rather quickly. When it has been significantly worn down, it should thus look to restore its health with Roost. Lastly, Hydreigon should try spamming its STAB attacks as frequently as possible, which means that it is best that its common checks are removed or weakened before it is utilized in later stages of the game.
Team Options
========
Entry hazards from Pokemon like Azelf and Mega Aggron are useful for increasing Hydreigon's overall damage output. Physical wallbreakers are ideal for pairing with this set due to their ability to take on the majority of special walls for Hydreigon. Swords Dance Doublade is a notable example thanks to its ability to take care of both Blissey and Fairy-types. Other Fairy-type checks like Nidoking and Scizor can take care of big threats to Hydreigon in Sylveon and Mega Altaria. Lures like Iron Head Mega Aerodactyl and Gunk Shot Infernape are especially helpful due to their ability to surprise and KO most Fairy-types. Fast threats like Mega Aerodactyl and Mega Sceptile can take on revenge killers for Hydreigon, while the likes of Suicune and Mega Aggron can easily switch into the priority attacks that threaten it. Sweepers such as Terrakion and Stakataka enjoy Hydreigon's ability to weaken opposing teams for them to easily clean up late-game.
[SET]
name: Taunt
move 1: Taunt
move 2: Dark Pulse
move 3: Roost
move 4: Draco Meteor
item: Life Orb / Dragonium Z
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Taunt shuts down a large portion of specially defensive threats that can otherwise wall Hydreigon and attempt to cripple it, such as Blissey and Empoleon. Dark Pulse is a consistent STAB attack without drawbacks, hitting decently hard with the given investment. Roost provides Hydreigon with a reliable method of sustaining itself throughout a match, allowing it to consistently stallbreak. Draco Meteor is a powerful STAB attack that Hydreigon can use to muscle past offensive Pokemon like Nidoking and Mega Manectric. When Dragonium Z is activated, Draco Meteor becomes a powerful Devastating Drake that can be used to break a few defensive Pokemon without decreasing Hydreigon's Special Attack, such as Alomomola and Suicune after chip damage. Fire Blast is an option over Dark Pulse that can prove to be useful for weakening Steel-types like Cobalion and Scizor. However, it generally prevents Hydreigon from hitting a wider variety of foes due to Dark Pulse's better overall coverage.
Set Details
========
The given investment and nature maximize Hydreigon's power while giving it as much Speed as possible. Levitate is especially useful on this set, as Hydreigon can easily utilize it to shut down defensive Ground-types like Swampert and Hippowdon. Life Orb is the preferred item due to the respectable power it will put behind Hydreigon's attacks. Dragonium Z is also an option, however, for granting access to Devastating Drake in addition to minimizing Knock Off damage. It should only be used if another teammate is not holding a Z-Crystal, however.
Usage Tips
========
While not as powerful as other sets, Hydreigon looks to break past opposing teams, using Taunt whenever it needs to shut down a wall like Alomomola or Quagsire. Roost should be used whenever Hydreigon has been worn down a fair amount so as not to leave it open to a revenge killer. Lastly, Hydreigon should carefully count the turns in which the opposing Pokemon is crippled with Taunt, as if it doesn't continuously hit defensive foes with the move, they will be able to easily recover their health and stall it out.
Team Options
========
This set fits well on bulky offensive teams that appreciate a Pokemon capable of crippling and wearing down defensive threats. Entry hazard support is important to the success of this set, as Hydreigon forces many switches and will be able to rack up residual damage on foes in doing so. Toxic Spikes from Tentacruel or Mega Beedrill is particularly helpful due to its ability to further wear defensive foes down. Hydreigon's inability to break past the likes of Sylveon and Florges with this set makes checks to them like Mega Beedrill and Lucario good options as teammates. Fighting-types can also be useful if Hydreigon doesn't wish to use up a fair amount of PP breaking past Blissey. Cobalion and Terrakion are both notable examples due to their ability to also set Stealth Rock for Hydreigon if need be. Special sweepers that can have trouble breaking past bulky walls appreciate Hydreigon's ability to significantly chip them down with this set. Examples include Agility Moltres, Suicune, and particularly Salazzle, which, while not common, can apply huge pressure to Fairy-types for Hydreigon.
[SET]
name: Offensive Defog
move 1: Defog
move 2: Draco Meteor
move 3: Roost
move 4: Dark Pulse / Fire Blast
item: Life Orb / Dragonium Z
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Defog can be used to reliably remove entry hazards from the field. Draco Meteor is a powerful STAB attack that can be used to plow through Pokemon that can tank a Dark Pulse or Fire Blast and retaliate with heavy damage, like Nidoking, Krookodile, and Mega Sharpedo. Roost is a form of recovery that allows Hydreigon to frequently sustain itself. Dark Pulse is a consistent and powerful STAB attack that Hydreigon can liberally spam throughout the match. Fire Blast is an option for super effectively hitting common Steel-type switch-ins.
Set Details
========
Full investment in Special Attack maximizes Hydreigon's neutral-natured power, while Life Orb furthers its damage output. Dragonium Z can also be used, however, in order to grant Hydreigon access to Devastating Drake. Full investment in Speed with a Timid nature makes Hydreigon as fast as possible, allowing it to outrun a decent portion of the tier. Levitate provides a handy immunity to Ground-types, which can allow Hydreigon to pivot into them in order to easily remove entry hazards.
Usage Tips
========
This set should look to pivot in on Pokemon that it can force out, such as Chandelure and Celebi. From there, Hydreigon can remove entry hazards from the field. If entry hazards aren't in need of removal, Hydreigon should look to merely act as an offensive nuisance to opposing teams, (RC) due to its ability to punch holes easily with its powerful attacks. Dark Pulse should be used liberally throughout the match due to its exceptional overall coverage, though Draco Meteor should be used to OHKO Pokemon that could tank a hit and punish Hydreigon otherwise. Fire Blast should be used to catch Steel-types on the switch if being run. When it has been worn down significantly, Hydreigon should restore its health with Roost in order to remove entry hazards later on if need be.
Team Options
========
This set's nature as an offensive Defogger makes it an exceptional pick on most offensive playstyles. Pokemon like Volcanion, Mega Pidgeot, and Mega Aerodactyl appreciate Hydreigon's ability to remove entry hazards due to their Stealth Rock weakness. Pokemon that appreciate the removal of Ghost- and Psychic-types, like Infernape and Celebi, also enjoy having Hydreigon as a partner. Fairy- and Fighting-type checks, such as Doublade and Latias, are capable of dealing with common means of offensively pressuring Hydreigon. Physically offensive threats like Terrakion and Scizor can complement Hydreigon in that one covers physical walls while the other covers specially bulky foes.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
Hydreigon's access to Defog and reliable recovery can allow it to function as a decent defensive entry hazard remover given its several useful resistances. However, Hydreigon has a fair amount of common weaknesses as well and is also usually more consistent in an offensive role. Hydreigon can look to sweep with Work Up, which conveniently boosts both of its attacking stats, but it isn't hard to revenge kill and will often be hard pressed for moveslots. Belch + Poisonium Z is a compelling option for luring in and heavily damaging the majority of defensive Fairy-types, notably OHKOing the likes of Azumarill and Primarina. However, its main problem is its opportunity cost and the general waste of a moveslot once Acid Downpour has been used. Earth Power can be used on some sets for its good general coverage against most of the metagame, including Stakataka, Alolan Muk, and Klefki. Unfortunately, all of its targets are already hit quite hard by other coverage moves, and it's a rather poor move for Hydreigon to be locked into.
Checks and Counters
===================
**Fairy-types**: Fairy-types like Sylveon, Mega Altaria, and Klefki resist Hydreigon's STAB attacks and can OHKO it with their STAB attacks. All fear super effective coverage, however. Florges, Primarina, and Azumarill are particularly troublesome, as the latter two don't take super effective damage from any of Hydreigon's coverage options, while the former has enough special bulk to avoid a 2HKO from Life Orb-boosted Flash Cannon.
**Fighting-types**: Cobalion, Infernape, and Terrakion all naturally outspeed Hydreigon and can OHKO it with super effective STAB Close Combat. The latter two can also viably run Choice Scarf sets of their own, which outspeed and OHKO Hydreigon's Choice Scarf set. Infernape even carries priority in the form of STAB Mach Punch on its Choice Band set, which it can use to take advantage of even Choice Scarf sets. Breloom also carries Mach Punch, which will OHKO Hydreigon from full health with Stealth Rock down.
**Faster Threats**: While Hydreigon's Speed is above average, it still leaves it outrun by common threats in Latias, Mega Sceptile, and Mega Beedrill, which can all OHKO it with their respective STAB attacks. Faster Choice Scarf users such as Latias and Infernape can outrun even Hydreigon's Choice Scarf set and KO it.
**Specially Bulky Pokemon**: Pokemon with exceptional special bulk are often capable of repeatedly tanking hits from Hydreigon. Examples include Blissey, Alolan Muk, Empoleon, and notably Porygon2, which, while uncommon, can avoid the 2HKO from even Superpower.
**Strong Priority**: Hydreigon's bulk is decent, though it at times isn't enough to fend it off from some of the tier's more powerful priority attacks, which include Infernape and Breloom's Mach Punch, Lucario's Vacuum Wave, and Scizor's Bullet Punch, the former two of which are notable for hitting Hydreigon super effectively.
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