Primary credit goes to blitzlefan and Anttya for crafting the skeleton to where it will be integrated here.
QC's: 3/3 (Blue Jay, Melee Mewtwo, Fireburn)
GP's: 1/2 (Calm Pokemaster)
Overview
########
Rayquaza returns to Ubers from a well-deserved vacation in the ozone layer and is ready to show off its power once again. In terms of power, base 150 offenses in both stats is definitely something to be feared, and Rayquaza has powerful moves to back it up, such as V-create, Outrage, and the coveted Extreme Speed. Also, its decent base 95 Speed and access to boosting moves such as Dragon Dance and Swords Dance differentiates Rayquaza from most of the Dragons in the tier. As for the cherry on top, Defoggers can remove hazards easier than before, giving Rayquaza some much-needed switch-in opportunities. However, most Dragon-types now have to deal with Fairy-types such as Xerneas and Fairy Arceus, and Rayquaza's primary cleaning move Outrage practically gives them a free turn. Its typing isn't that great either, limiting the number of attacks it can switch into. In addition, its useful ability in Air Lock was heavily nerfed due to the lack of perma-weather, but Rayquaza is probably the sole Pokemon able to defeat Steel-types regardless of weather conditions, in addition to being able to switch in or set up on a Kyogre's Water Spout. Finally, Rayquaza is now facing very stiff competition for a sweeping spot from threats such as Extreme Killer Arceus and Mega Blaziken. Despite the new generation shifting away from Rayquaza's favor, do not disregard it at all when teambuilding, unless you wish to have it rip a hole bigger than the Antarctic ozone depletion in your team.
Swords Dance
########
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: V-create
move 3: Dragon Claw
move 4: Extremespeed
item: Life Orb
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
nature: Adamant / Jolly
Moves
========
With Swords Dance and Life Orb in tow, Rayquaza essentially becomes a physical wallbreaker that pretty much takes no prisoners with a whopping 876 Attack after a boost and an Adamant nature. V-create is basically Rayquaza's ultimate nuke and will desolate anything and everything that does not resist it after a boost; even physically defensive Groudon is at risk of being OHKOed, especially after Stealth Rock. Dragon Claw is Rayquaza's STAB move of choice, as it hits Water- and Rock-types such as Kyogre, Water Arceus, and Rock Arceus that resist V-create. Extreme Speed is an important part of the Swords Dance set, as not only can it revenge kill weakened sweepers, it can also finish off Pokemon that aren't immediately OHKOed by a +2 V-create or +2 Dragon Claw.
Set Details
========
The main draw of Swords Dance Rayquaza is its sheer power with V-create and massive base 150 Attack, and because of this, Adamant is the recommended nature to deal the most damage. However, Jolly is still a very viable alternative, as you can defeat positive base 90 Speed Pokemon without resorting to Extreme Speed, but the power drop is noticeable. Also, maximum EVs in Attack and Speed can let Rayquaza hit extremely hard and relatively fast, and you should not deviate from these two stats in any case.
Usage Tips
========
First and foremost, Swords Dance Rayquaza is not a sweeper by any means, and should be treated as a wallbreaker first, as it has no sweeping moves whatsoever, and the ability to smash almost any physical wall in the game with a +2 V-create can pave the way for another sweeper instead. Also, unless the opposing team is severely weakened, refrain from using Extreme Speed as a cleaning tool; use it more as a revenge killing tool or a finishing move on a target that does not immediately vaporize from a +2 V-create, even though a +2 Extreme Speed can deal heavy damage. Finally, even though V-create is your primary nuke button, be extremely careful when using it, as it will force Rayquaza out because of its secondary effects of lowering its own defenses and Speed.
Team Options
========
Volt Switch users such as Thundurus and Zekrom and U-turn users like Genesect can bring in Rayquaza on predicted switches for free and can give it an opportunity to wreak havoc on the nearest wall with ease. Mega Gengar is also Rayquaza's primary ally as it can defeat the Fairy-types that make Rayquaza angry, such as Xerneas and Fairy Arceus. Steel-types like Bronzong, Klefki, Aegislash, and Mega Scizor can also deal with Fairy-types if needed, and Klefki can paralyze faster Pokemon, leaving them vulnerable to V-create. Stealth Rock removal is important for Rayquaza's success. Defog users like Arceus and Giratina and Rapid Spinners like Excadrill and Forretress can remove these easily. Anything that likes having Steel-types utterly annihilated is definitely a friend of Rayquaza. Lugia and even Geomancy Xerneas and Calm Mind Fairy Arceus enjoy Rayquaza's company and Steel-type-destroying ability. Last but not least, Stealth Rock setters such as Landorus-T, Dialga, and Groudon can help Rayquaza pull off some neat KOs, such as a 56.3% chance to OHKO physically defensive Groudon with a +2 Adamant V-create, and Darkrai with a +2 Extreme Speed.
MixQuaza
########
name: MixQuaza
move 1: Draco Meteor
move 2: V-create
move 3: Extremespeed
move 4: Dragon Claw / Earthquake
item: Life Orb
evs: 4 Atk / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
nature: Hasty / Naive
Moves
========
When one sees MixQuaza, one immediately thinks Draco Meteor, which lets Rayquaza bypass physically bulky Ground-types and support Arceus formes. This also makes this set a lure for the above, letting it act as a supporter for sweepers that are checked or countered by these. V-create is also very useful, as it can get past opposing Steel-types and still do good damage in general with Life Orb. Extreme Speed is still a very important joint piece for Draco Meteor and V-create, as it can finish off opponents that are not KOed by the two aforementioned moves. Dragon Claw is a very useful STAB move to spam in situations where Draco Meteor is not ideal. Earthquake can cover more threats that can effectively wall MixQuaza, such as Heatran, Dialga, and Tyranitar, but it leaves Rayquaza vulnerable to Ho-Oh.
Set Details
========
Despite the fact that three of the four moves in this set are physical, the EVs are diverted into Special Attack for Draco Meteor, as without it, there is no reason to run MixQuaza. The above natures are based on team composition and personal preference. Hasty lets Rayquaza take special attacks better and give a Download boost in Attack, while Naive lets it take less damage from priority.
Usage Tips
========
MixQuaza's number 1 priority is to lure defensive Pokemon like the support Arceus formes, Groudon, and Lugia provided Multiscale is broken, and it should thus feign a different set in order to succeed at this. As an extra reminder, be particularly careful with V-create's usage, but don't be too scared if Draco Meteor is used, as Rayquaza has three other physical moves at its disposal. Speaking of V-create, try catching Fairy-types that are immune to Draco Meteor on the switch, so you can do some significant damage to them before switching out.
Team Options
========
Volt Switch and U-turn still can assist Rayquaza when coming onto the battlefield, as they catch switches to threats like Groudon (U-turn only) and Lugia, giving Rayquaza the edge. Mega Gengar can once again help in removing Fairy-types and Taunting support Arceus formes that would otherwise burn or paralyze Rayquaza, crippling it. Defoggers like Arceus and Giratina, in addition to Rapid Spinner users like Excadrill and Forretress can remove Stealth Rock which annoys Rayquaza and support the rest of the team. Stealth Rock setters like Landorus-T, Dialga, and Groudon will also help in breaking Lugia's Multiscale and letting Rayquaza KO foes with Draco Meteor. Also, the important thing when making a team with MixQuaza is to have attackers that like having the Pokemon that Rayquaza's Draco Meteor can defeat gone. Blaziken likes having Giratina, Lugia, and some support Arceus formes out of the picture, while Zekrom loves having Groudon out of the way, all of which MixQuaza can take down if played correctly. Heatran however is a large problem for MixQuaza if it does not run Earthquake, so having a Ground-type coverage move or Ground-types like Garchomp and Ground Arceus should remedy this if you choose Dragon Claw.
Dragon Dance
########
name: Dragon Dance
move 1: Dragon Dance
move 2: Outrage
move 3: V-create
move 4: Extremespeed
item: Life Orb
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
nature: Jolly
Moves
========
With Dragon Dance, Rayquaza can become a fearsome late-game sweeper, and that sweeping power is provided by Outrage. With Fairy-types and Steel-types out of the picture, Rayquaza will quite literally go on a rampage with Outrage, cleaning up weakened teams with ease, especially with Life Orb backing it up. However, the other two moves are to make sure a sweep with Outrage is a reality. Though it may seem weird on a setup sweeper, V-create can be used for immediate power, as it can help Rayquaza get past Steel-types and most support Arceus formes before initiating a sweep. Extreme Speed can also help Rayquaza defeat weakened Choice Scarf users and sweepers, giving it an opportunity to set up a Dragon Dance. However, if you are legitimately scared of being locked into Outrage to the point it becomes a phobia, then Dragon Claw is an alternative, but it hits like a pansy compared to Outrage.
Set Details
========
Maximum Attack and Speed EVs are practically required in order for Rayquaza to hit like a truck before and after a Dragon Dance. Adamant is a viable alternate nature and can ensure sweeps, but a Jolly nature lets Rayquaza get the jump on base 90 Choice Scarf users such as Kyogre and Zekrom. Lum Berry can ensure Rayquaza is not crippled by status and thus let it defeat support Arceus formes without any repercussions, but the power drop compared to Life Orb is very noticeable.
Usage Tips
========
There are many things to remember when using Dragon Dance Rayquaza; they are unparalleled in importance. Firstly, do not attempt to sweep early-game, especially if there is a Fairy-type, Steel-type, or unknown Arceus forme lurking around. This is because Rayquaza's only sweeping tool is Outrage, so unless you can take all of the above mentioned Pokemon down with V-create without trouble, or if the opponent has none of the above team members, do not attempt an early-game sweep with Outrage. However, V-create and Dragon Dance lets Rayquaza function as a sweeper or a wallbreaker, giving it extra utility to the team. Also, it is particularly difficult for Rayquaza to get a Dragon Dance off safely, but the set closely mimics the Swords Dance set, so try to imitate its playstyles until you find an opportunity to set up. Also, if revenge killers are on the prowl, try to predict switches and hit them hard with V-create or Extreme Speed, and then switch out. This is a particularly safe style if Rayquaza has not received too much residual damage from Life Orb or Stealth Rock, increasing the probability of a sweep.
Team Options
========
VoltTurn users such as Genenect, Thundurus, and Zekrom and Fairy-type removers like Mega Gengar are imperative for Rayquaza to come in safely and set up Dragon Dance as their ability to gain momentum and remove threats respectively help Rayquaza greatly. Defensively oriented Steel-types like Aegislash, Bronzong, Klefki, and Mega Scizor can help remove Fairy-types from the game easier than most, and Klefki can paralyze faster Pokemon with Thunder Wave, easing Rayquaza's sweep. Rapid Spin is preferred over Defog as entry hazard removal as Rayquaza likes having weakened teams with Stealth Rock and Spikes under their feet. Excadrill and Forretress will remove entry hazards on your side only, and can set up their own Stealth Rock and Spikes, respectively. Other Stealth Rock setters such as Landorus-T, Dialga, and Groudon can also get them up when needed. In terms of weakening teams, entry hazard shufflers like Giratina, Lugia, and Groudon can rack up residual damage to the point where Rayquaza can sweep with a +1 Outrage. Wobbuffet is also a very helpful partner to Rayquaza, as not only can it trap and remove support Arceus formes and Choice Scarf revenge killers like Xerneas, it can also provide Rayquaza a setup opportunity with Encore.
Other Options
########
Focus Sash can let Rayquaza take a hit and live regardless of damage outside of multi-hit moves, but Rayquaza really likes having Life Orb on its side. Rayquaza also can use Choice Band and Choice Scarf, which can hurt with its powerful Outrage and V-create. However, locking itself into a specific move is something Rayquaza does not like this generation, and it therefore prefers the flexibility of Life Orb. Leftovers is a passable option for recovery, but Rayquaza isn't bulky enough to utilize it and really likes Life Orb instead. A Tailwind support set is a useful option for assisting slower teams, but as mentioned before, Rayquaza isn't bulky enough to take on a supporting role. However, leading with Rayquaza— commonly called "LeadQuaza"— can disrupt many teams, letting it wreak havoc on dedicated leads and rip teams up turn 1.
Overheat, Flamethrower, and Fire Blast are safer alternatives to V-create when it comes to hitting Steel-types, but the sheer power of V-create overshadows all of these options. Iron Tail is a powerful option to hit Fairy-types, but is inaccurate and offers little coverage. Dragon Tail can phaze sweepers that want to set up alongside Rayquaza, but takes up a slot that can be used to run other Dragon-type moves, as the combination of V-create and Extreme Speed is a niche Rayquaza calls its own. On the other hand, Substitute is a solid option for Rayquaza to gain boosts behind a Substitute and shield itself from chip damage and status.
Checks and Counters
########
**Fairy-types**: The biggest thorn in Rayquaza's side are Fairy-types like Fairy Arceus and Xerneas, as they prevent Rayquaza from using Outrage and threaten to KO it with Fairy-type attacks. However, basically every Fairy-type bar Clefable gets destroyed by either a boosted Iron Tail or V-create.
**Heatran**: Now that most Rayquaza variants do not run Earthquake, Heatran can outtank Rayquaza's hits, threaten to burn it with Lava Plume and nullify boosts with Roar. However, Heatran gets 2HKOed by a +2 Dragon Claw, and if Rayquaza runs Earthquake, Heatran is history.
**Bulky support Arceus formes**: Water Arceus and Rock Arceus can take a V-create and threaten to burn with Will-O-Wisp. These are probably the closest things to a tangible counter to Rayquaza.
**Lugia**: Provided Multiscale is intact, Lugia can take a hit from Rayquaza, cripple it with Thunder Wave, and phaze it out with Whirlwind.
**Groudon**: As Rayquaza does not benefit from the sun, Groudon can take a hit from Rayquaza, threaten to paralyze with Thunder Wave, and severely damage Rayquaza with Stone Edge, or phaze it out with Roar. However, Groudon cannot take a +2 V-create if it has taken a bit of damage.
**Revenge Killers**: Probably the safest answers to Rayquaza, priority users such as Extreme Killer Arceus, Yveltal, Mega Lucario, and Scizor, in addition to Choice Scarf users like Kyogre, Genesect, and Zekrom, can dispose of Rayquaza with their respective moves. However, they will not appreciate taking either a Dragon Claw, Outrage, or V-create and may be KOed if the attack is boosted.
**Status**: Burn makes Rayquaza deadweight, as it cannot use its powerful attacks to great effect anymore, and paralysis cripples its once above-average base 95 Speed, leaving it vulnerable to being revenge killed. Rayquaza does not appreciate being hit with Toxic either, as the residual damage of Life Orb and Toxic can end Rayquaza's sweep early.
QC's: 3/3 (Blue Jay, Melee Mewtwo, Fireburn)
GP's: 1/2 (Calm Pokemaster)
Overview
########
Rayquaza returns to Ubers from a well-deserved vacation in the ozone layer and is ready to show off its power once again. In terms of power, base 150 offenses in both stats is definitely something to be feared, and Rayquaza has powerful moves to back it up, such as V-create, Outrage, and the coveted Extreme Speed. Also, its decent base 95 Speed and access to boosting moves such as Dragon Dance and Swords Dance differentiates Rayquaza from most of the Dragons in the tier. As for the cherry on top, Defoggers can remove hazards easier than before, giving Rayquaza some much-needed switch-in opportunities. However, most Dragon-types now have to deal with Fairy-types such as Xerneas and Fairy Arceus, and Rayquaza's primary cleaning move Outrage practically gives them a free turn. Its typing isn't that great either, limiting the number of attacks it can switch into. In addition, its useful ability in Air Lock was heavily nerfed due to the lack of perma-weather, but Rayquaza is probably the sole Pokemon able to defeat Steel-types regardless of weather conditions, in addition to being able to switch in or set up on a Kyogre's Water Spout. Finally, Rayquaza is now facing very stiff competition for a sweeping spot from threats such as Extreme Killer Arceus and Mega Blaziken. Despite the new generation shifting away from Rayquaza's favor, do not disregard it at all when teambuilding, unless you wish to have it rip a hole bigger than the Antarctic ozone depletion in your team.
Swords Dance
########
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: V-create
move 3: Dragon Claw
move 4: Extremespeed
item: Life Orb
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
nature: Adamant / Jolly
Moves
========
With Swords Dance and Life Orb in tow, Rayquaza essentially becomes a physical wallbreaker that pretty much takes no prisoners with a whopping 876 Attack after a boost and an Adamant nature. V-create is basically Rayquaza's ultimate nuke and will desolate anything and everything that does not resist it after a boost; even physically defensive Groudon is at risk of being OHKOed, especially after Stealth Rock. Dragon Claw is Rayquaza's STAB move of choice, as it hits Water- and Rock-types such as Kyogre, Water Arceus, and Rock Arceus that resist V-create. Extreme Speed is an important part of the Swords Dance set, as not only can it revenge kill weakened sweepers, it can also finish off Pokemon that aren't immediately OHKOed by a +2 V-create or +2 Dragon Claw.
Set Details
========
The main draw of Swords Dance Rayquaza is its sheer power with V-create and massive base 150 Attack, and because of this, Adamant is the recommended nature to deal the most damage. However, Jolly is still a very viable alternative, as you can defeat positive base 90 Speed Pokemon without resorting to Extreme Speed, but the power drop is noticeable. Also, maximum EVs in Attack and Speed can let Rayquaza hit extremely hard and relatively fast, and you should not deviate from these two stats in any case.
Usage Tips
========
First and foremost, Swords Dance Rayquaza is not a sweeper by any means, and should be treated as a wallbreaker first, as it has no sweeping moves whatsoever, and the ability to smash almost any physical wall in the game with a +2 V-create can pave the way for another sweeper instead. Also, unless the opposing team is severely weakened, refrain from using Extreme Speed as a cleaning tool; use it more as a revenge killing tool or a finishing move on a target that does not immediately vaporize from a +2 V-create, even though a +2 Extreme Speed can deal heavy damage. Finally, even though V-create is your primary nuke button, be extremely careful when using it, as it will force Rayquaza out because of its secondary effects of lowering its own defenses and Speed.
Team Options
========
Volt Switch users such as Thundurus and Zekrom and U-turn users like Genesect can bring in Rayquaza on predicted switches for free and can give it an opportunity to wreak havoc on the nearest wall with ease. Mega Gengar is also Rayquaza's primary ally as it can defeat the Fairy-types that make Rayquaza angry, such as Xerneas and Fairy Arceus. Steel-types like Bronzong, Klefki, Aegislash, and Mega Scizor can also deal with Fairy-types if needed, and Klefki can paralyze faster Pokemon, leaving them vulnerable to V-create. Stealth Rock removal is important for Rayquaza's success. Defog users like Arceus and Giratina and Rapid Spinners like Excadrill and Forretress can remove these easily. Anything that likes having Steel-types utterly annihilated is definitely a friend of Rayquaza. Lugia and even Geomancy Xerneas and Calm Mind Fairy Arceus enjoy Rayquaza's company and Steel-type-destroying ability. Last but not least, Stealth Rock setters such as Landorus-T, Dialga, and Groudon can help Rayquaza pull off some neat KOs, such as a 56.3% chance to OHKO physically defensive Groudon with a +2 Adamant V-create, and Darkrai with a +2 Extreme Speed.
MixQuaza
########
name: MixQuaza
move 1: Draco Meteor
move 2: V-create
move 3: Extremespeed
move 4: Dragon Claw / Earthquake
item: Life Orb
evs: 4 Atk / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
nature: Hasty / Naive
Moves
========
When one sees MixQuaza, one immediately thinks Draco Meteor, which lets Rayquaza bypass physically bulky Ground-types and support Arceus formes. This also makes this set a lure for the above, letting it act as a supporter for sweepers that are checked or countered by these. V-create is also very useful, as it can get past opposing Steel-types and still do good damage in general with Life Orb. Extreme Speed is still a very important joint piece for Draco Meteor and V-create, as it can finish off opponents that are not KOed by the two aforementioned moves. Dragon Claw is a very useful STAB move to spam in situations where Draco Meteor is not ideal. Earthquake can cover more threats that can effectively wall MixQuaza, such as Heatran, Dialga, and Tyranitar, but it leaves Rayquaza vulnerable to Ho-Oh.
Set Details
========
Despite the fact that three of the four moves in this set are physical, the EVs are diverted into Special Attack for Draco Meteor, as without it, there is no reason to run MixQuaza. The above natures are based on team composition and personal preference. Hasty lets Rayquaza take special attacks better and give a Download boost in Attack, while Naive lets it take less damage from priority.
Usage Tips
========
MixQuaza's number 1 priority is to lure defensive Pokemon like the support Arceus formes, Groudon, and Lugia provided Multiscale is broken, and it should thus feign a different set in order to succeed at this. As an extra reminder, be particularly careful with V-create's usage, but don't be too scared if Draco Meteor is used, as Rayquaza has three other physical moves at its disposal. Speaking of V-create, try catching Fairy-types that are immune to Draco Meteor on the switch, so you can do some significant damage to them before switching out.
Team Options
========
Volt Switch and U-turn still can assist Rayquaza when coming onto the battlefield, as they catch switches to threats like Groudon (U-turn only) and Lugia, giving Rayquaza the edge. Mega Gengar can once again help in removing Fairy-types and Taunting support Arceus formes that would otherwise burn or paralyze Rayquaza, crippling it. Defoggers like Arceus and Giratina, in addition to Rapid Spinner users like Excadrill and Forretress can remove Stealth Rock which annoys Rayquaza and support the rest of the team. Stealth Rock setters like Landorus-T, Dialga, and Groudon will also help in breaking Lugia's Multiscale and letting Rayquaza KO foes with Draco Meteor. Also, the important thing when making a team with MixQuaza is to have attackers that like having the Pokemon that Rayquaza's Draco Meteor can defeat gone. Blaziken likes having Giratina, Lugia, and some support Arceus formes out of the picture, while Zekrom loves having Groudon out of the way, all of which MixQuaza can take down if played correctly. Heatran however is a large problem for MixQuaza if it does not run Earthquake, so having a Ground-type coverage move or Ground-types like Garchomp and Ground Arceus should remedy this if you choose Dragon Claw.
Dragon Dance
########
name: Dragon Dance
move 1: Dragon Dance
move 2: Outrage
move 3: V-create
move 4: Extremespeed
item: Life Orb
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
nature: Jolly
Moves
========
With Dragon Dance, Rayquaza can become a fearsome late-game sweeper, and that sweeping power is provided by Outrage. With Fairy-types and Steel-types out of the picture, Rayquaza will quite literally go on a rampage with Outrage, cleaning up weakened teams with ease, especially with Life Orb backing it up. However, the other two moves are to make sure a sweep with Outrage is a reality. Though it may seem weird on a setup sweeper, V-create can be used for immediate power, as it can help Rayquaza get past Steel-types and most support Arceus formes before initiating a sweep. Extreme Speed can also help Rayquaza defeat weakened Choice Scarf users and sweepers, giving it an opportunity to set up a Dragon Dance. However, if you are legitimately scared of being locked into Outrage to the point it becomes a phobia, then Dragon Claw is an alternative, but it hits like a pansy compared to Outrage.
Set Details
========
Maximum Attack and Speed EVs are practically required in order for Rayquaza to hit like a truck before and after a Dragon Dance. Adamant is a viable alternate nature and can ensure sweeps, but a Jolly nature lets Rayquaza get the jump on base 90 Choice Scarf users such as Kyogre and Zekrom. Lum Berry can ensure Rayquaza is not crippled by status and thus let it defeat support Arceus formes without any repercussions, but the power drop compared to Life Orb is very noticeable.
Usage Tips
========
There are many things to remember when using Dragon Dance Rayquaza; they are unparalleled in importance. Firstly, do not attempt to sweep early-game, especially if there is a Fairy-type, Steel-type, or unknown Arceus forme lurking around. This is because Rayquaza's only sweeping tool is Outrage, so unless you can take all of the above mentioned Pokemon down with V-create without trouble, or if the opponent has none of the above team members, do not attempt an early-game sweep with Outrage. However, V-create and Dragon Dance lets Rayquaza function as a sweeper or a wallbreaker, giving it extra utility to the team. Also, it is particularly difficult for Rayquaza to get a Dragon Dance off safely, but the set closely mimics the Swords Dance set, so try to imitate its playstyles until you find an opportunity to set up. Also, if revenge killers are on the prowl, try to predict switches and hit them hard with V-create or Extreme Speed, and then switch out. This is a particularly safe style if Rayquaza has not received too much residual damage from Life Orb or Stealth Rock, increasing the probability of a sweep.
Team Options
========
VoltTurn users such as Genenect, Thundurus, and Zekrom and Fairy-type removers like Mega Gengar are imperative for Rayquaza to come in safely and set up Dragon Dance as their ability to gain momentum and remove threats respectively help Rayquaza greatly. Defensively oriented Steel-types like Aegislash, Bronzong, Klefki, and Mega Scizor can help remove Fairy-types from the game easier than most, and Klefki can paralyze faster Pokemon with Thunder Wave, easing Rayquaza's sweep. Rapid Spin is preferred over Defog as entry hazard removal as Rayquaza likes having weakened teams with Stealth Rock and Spikes under their feet. Excadrill and Forretress will remove entry hazards on your side only, and can set up their own Stealth Rock and Spikes, respectively. Other Stealth Rock setters such as Landorus-T, Dialga, and Groudon can also get them up when needed. In terms of weakening teams, entry hazard shufflers like Giratina, Lugia, and Groudon can rack up residual damage to the point where Rayquaza can sweep with a +1 Outrage. Wobbuffet is also a very helpful partner to Rayquaza, as not only can it trap and remove support Arceus formes and Choice Scarf revenge killers like Xerneas, it can also provide Rayquaza a setup opportunity with Encore.
Other Options
########
Focus Sash can let Rayquaza take a hit and live regardless of damage outside of multi-hit moves, but Rayquaza really likes having Life Orb on its side. Rayquaza also can use Choice Band and Choice Scarf, which can hurt with its powerful Outrage and V-create. However, locking itself into a specific move is something Rayquaza does not like this generation, and it therefore prefers the flexibility of Life Orb. Leftovers is a passable option for recovery, but Rayquaza isn't bulky enough to utilize it and really likes Life Orb instead. A Tailwind support set is a useful option for assisting slower teams, but as mentioned before, Rayquaza isn't bulky enough to take on a supporting role. However, leading with Rayquaza— commonly called "LeadQuaza"— can disrupt many teams, letting it wreak havoc on dedicated leads and rip teams up turn 1.
Overheat, Flamethrower, and Fire Blast are safer alternatives to V-create when it comes to hitting Steel-types, but the sheer power of V-create overshadows all of these options. Iron Tail is a powerful option to hit Fairy-types, but is inaccurate and offers little coverage. Dragon Tail can phaze sweepers that want to set up alongside Rayquaza, but takes up a slot that can be used to run other Dragon-type moves, as the combination of V-create and Extreme Speed is a niche Rayquaza calls its own. On the other hand, Substitute is a solid option for Rayquaza to gain boosts behind a Substitute and shield itself from chip damage and status.
Checks and Counters
########
**Fairy-types**: The biggest thorn in Rayquaza's side are Fairy-types like Fairy Arceus and Xerneas, as they prevent Rayquaza from using Outrage and threaten to KO it with Fairy-type attacks. However, basically every Fairy-type bar Clefable gets destroyed by either a boosted Iron Tail or V-create.
**Heatran**: Now that most Rayquaza variants do not run Earthquake, Heatran can outtank Rayquaza's hits, threaten to burn it with Lava Plume and nullify boosts with Roar. However, Heatran gets 2HKOed by a +2 Dragon Claw, and if Rayquaza runs Earthquake, Heatran is history.
**Bulky support Arceus formes**: Water Arceus and Rock Arceus can take a V-create and threaten to burn with Will-O-Wisp. These are probably the closest things to a tangible counter to Rayquaza.
**Lugia**: Provided Multiscale is intact, Lugia can take a hit from Rayquaza, cripple it with Thunder Wave, and phaze it out with Whirlwind.
**Groudon**: As Rayquaza does not benefit from the sun, Groudon can take a hit from Rayquaza, threaten to paralyze with Thunder Wave, and severely damage Rayquaza with Stone Edge, or phaze it out with Roar. However, Groudon cannot take a +2 V-create if it has taken a bit of damage.
**Revenge Killers**: Probably the safest answers to Rayquaza, priority users such as Extreme Killer Arceus, Yveltal, Mega Lucario, and Scizor, in addition to Choice Scarf users like Kyogre, Genesect, and Zekrom, can dispose of Rayquaza with their respective moves. However, they will not appreciate taking either a Dragon Claw, Outrage, or V-create and may be KOed if the attack is boosted.
**Status**: Burn makes Rayquaza deadweight, as it cannot use its powerful attacks to great effect anymore, and paralysis cripples its once above-average base 95 Speed, leaving it vulnerable to being revenge killed. Rayquaza does not appreciate being hit with Toxic either, as the residual damage of Life Orb and Toxic can end Rayquaza's sweep early.
Primary credit goes to blitzlefan and Anttya for crafting the skeleton to where it will be integrated here.
QC's: 1/3 (Blue Jay, Melee Mewtwo)
GP's: 0/2
Overview
########
Swords Dance
########
name: Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: V-create
move 3: Dragon Claw
move 4: Extremespeed
item: Life Orb
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
nature: Adamant / Jolly
Moves
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Set Details
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Usage Tips
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Team Options
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MixQuaza
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name: MixQuaza
move 1: Draco Meteor
move 2: V-create
move 3: Extremespeed
move 4: Dragon Claw / Earthquake
item: Life Orb
evs: 4 Atk / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
nature: Hasty / Naive
Moves
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Set Details
========
Usage Tips
========
Team Options
========
Dragon Dance
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name: Dragon Dance
move 1: Dragon Dance
move 2: Outrage
move 3: V-create
move 4: Extremespeed
item: Life Orb
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
nature: Jolly
Moves
========
Set Details
========
Usage Tips
========
Team Options
========
Other Options
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Checks and Counters
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QC's: 1/3 (Blue Jay, Melee Mewtwo)
GP's: 0/2
Overview
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- Best Dragon
- Great mixed offenses; 150 / 150 attacking stats are quite good
- Decent Speed; 95 base Speed can get past crowded base 90 Speed tier
- Pretty good movepool; actually has good boosting moves in Dragon Dance and Swords Dance, allowing offensive sets to be somewhat unpredictable
- SR weakness has been eased with Defog (not completely gone tho), letting Ray have more times to come in
- Bad defensive typing
- Weather nerf pretty much curbstomped Ray's useful ability in Air Lock, but it can hit Steels in rain still
- Fairies prevent Ray's primary sweeping tool in Outrage from being used regularly
- Faces stiff competition from other sweepers, like Extreme Killer Arceus and its Dragon Dancing companion, Mega Charizard X
Swords Dance
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name: Swords Dance
move 1: Swords Dance
move 2: V-create
move 3: Dragon Claw
move 4: Extremespeed
item: Life Orb
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
nature: Adamant / Jolly
Moves
========
- Swords Dance makes Rayquaza a formidable wallbreaker combined with Life Orb
- V-create is super stronk, and will basically nuke everything at +2; not even stuff like physically defensive Xern or Steel-types in rain (Air Lock=umad) can stand up to it
- Dragon Claw is more of a consistent STAB option than Outrage in this case, and can still KO Giratina at +2
- Extremespeed is an option to pick off weakened sweepers, and can facilitate many KOs with V-Create against faster opponents
Set Details
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- Adamant for overall power for wallbreaking, but Jolly can be used to outrun other neutral base 95's like Kyu-W and other Rays
- Max Atk, max Spe, max carnage
Usage Tips
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- Do NOT treat SD Ray as a sweeper in this circumstance at all, as its sheer power with SD and LO can make it self-function as a wallbreaker, and it will most likely smash almost any physical wall out there bar Unaware users like Clefable and QuaGod (This shit can possibly OHKO physically defensive Groudon)
- Also, do not use Extremespeed as a sweeping tool, as Extreme Killer does the job better, but more as a revenge killing tool for weakened sweepers that outspeed you, and can pay handsomely with a boost ( I mean, why do you need to sweep when you can smash Groudon?)
- Be careful when using V-create, as even though it is your non-Dragon nuke button you can leave yourself vulnerable to being forced out or killed when using it
Team Options
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- VoltTurn can bring Rayquaza in for free to wallbreak stuff
- Mega Gengar
- Steels-types (Zong, Aegislash, Klefki, Mega Scizor)
- Defog users
- Lugia loves having Steels gone, in addition to CM Fairy Arceus and even GeoXern, Rayquaza's archnemesis
- SR setters like Donner, Lando-T, and Dialga can give Ray the chance to break through stuff like Impish Groudon (Can KO 56.3% of the time with Adamant +2 V-create), and Darkrai (OHKO after +2 ES)
MixQuaza
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name: MixQuaza
move 1: Draco Meteor
move 2: V-create
move 3: Extremespeed
move 4: Dragon Claw / Earthquake
item: Life Orb
evs: 4 Atk / 252 SpA / 252 Spe
nature: Hasty / Naive
Moves
========
- Draco Meteor is the primary move on MixQuaza, hitting most of its usual switch-ins outside of Steel-types on the special side
- V-Create can do damage after Draco Meteor has been used, and can exploit Steel-types that have forgone their physical Defense to deal with Xerneas, in addition to hitting like a truck
- Extremespeed can pick off weakened sweepers and can possibly KO stuff in combination with Draco Meteor or V-Create
- Dragon Claw is for more consistent STAB when you feel that Draco Meteor is not the best option
- Earthquake gives Rayquaza perfect neutral coverage, and can hit Tyranitar and Dialga wihtout having to use V-create
Set Details
========
- Though most of Ray's moves are physically based on this set, the SpA EVs are to squeeze out the most damage as possible of Draco Meteor, which is quite literally the primary reason why MixQuaza exists
- The choice between Hasty and Naive is a one that correlates to your team and your personal interest. Hasty can give Genesect a boost in Attack and can cushion some blows from special attacks, while Naive does not leave you vulnerable to priority
Usage Tips
========
- A primary reason to use MixQuaza is its attributes as a lure for some Arceus formes, physically defensive Groudon, and Lugia after SR, which are its usual checks / counters
- As before, be careful with V-create's drawbacks, but not so much as Draco Meteor, as Ray does not rely on using it repeatedly as it has 3 other physical attacks to fall back on
- But still, be wary of Fairies when using Draco Meteor or Dragon Claw
Team Options
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- VoltTurn
- MegaGar for those fckin Fairies
- Defog
- SR setters (copypaste from SD)
- Stuff that like having the stuff it lures weakened or killed (i.e. Zekrom, Mega Blaziken, etc.)
- Stuff for Heatran if you don't have EQ (Groundceus, Excadrill, etc.)
Dragon Dance
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name: Dragon Dance
move 1: Dragon Dance
move 2: Outrage
move 3: V-create
move 4: Extremespeed
item: Life Orb
evs: 252 Atk / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
nature: Jolly
Moves
========
- Dragon Dance needs no explanation
- Outrage is Ray's primary cleaning tool, and can definitely sweep if Fairies and/or Steels are removed
- V-Create can defeat all of the Steel-types that Ray struggled with and can help defeat support Arceus formes after a boost
- Extremespeed can let Ray revenge kill weakened sweepers and can pave the way for your own DD sweep
- You can use Dragon Claw if Outrage is too hardcore for you, but it isn't too powerful and can't sweep too well, you sissy
Set Details
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- Max Atk and max Speed is crucial to DD Ray's sweeping capabilities
- Adamant can be used over Jolly for more power behind your moves, but Jolly lets Ray use his above-average Speed tier
- Lum Berry can cure yourself from a stray WoW or T-Wave, letting you fight another day, but the power drop without LO is noticeable
Usage Tips
========
- DD Ray is now considered more of a late-game sweeper than ever due to the excess of Fairy-types running around, and does appreciate having stuff weakened slightly, so try to hold back from sweeping early unless you are absolutely sure you either know their Arceus forme (if any), and that you can at least hit them hard without resorting to V-create
- Also, similar to the SD set, DD Ray is now more of a sweeper and a wallbreaker due to V-create and Outrage, as it can get past some of its checks early-game with V-create, but cannot sweep right then due to V-create's effects
- Try to predict switch-ins to revenge killers (Scarf 99s and up), and hit them hard with a coverage move. Also, if you have not received too much residual damage from LO or SR, you can escape without trouble
- The main thing you can do with DD Ray is to bluff an SD set, as V-create an ESpeed can bluff this just fine, then boost when needed and clean with Outrage
Team Options
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- VoltTurn and MegaGar are super-important with DD Ray, as both can support DD Ray in order for it to sweep
- Defensive Steel-types (Aegislash, Zong, Kefki, Mega Scizor)
- Rapid Spin (DD Ray prefers hazards more)
- SR Setters (copypaste from SD set)
- Hazard shufflers to weaken opposing teams (Loogie, Giratina, Groudon)
Other Options
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- Focus Sash
- Overheat / Flamethrower
- Choice items
- LeadQuaza (basically lead and kill shit)
- Substitute
- Lefties (sissy item)
- Iron Tail
- Tailwind support
- Dragon Tail
Checks and Counters
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- Fairy-types
- Heatran
- Bulky support Arceus formes (particularly Waterceus and Rockceus)
- Loogie
- Groudon
- Revenge Killers
- Burns / Paralysis (Status)
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