Draft Archaludon

[scionicle]

[overview]
**Draft order**: Round 3 onwards

**Price range**: 12-14 points

**Overview**: Archaludon is a powerful special attacker with amazing physical bulk and strong utility options. Its signature move, Electro Shot, makes it a good fit for rain teams. Stamina makes it difficult to take down, but it can be held back by its average Speed and pitiful Special Defense. With a strong core and proper support, the bridge can fill several roles well.


[strategy comments]
Common Roles
========
**Wallbreaker**: Archaludon's high Special Attack, strong STAB options, and coverage make it adept at punching holes in opposing teams when paired with damage-boosting items like Choice Specs. Electro Shot can further increase its damage output if combined with rain or a Power Herb. It also has the Speed to outpace most defensive Pokemon and the bulk to survive physical hits from a variety of foes.

**Utility**: With its impressive support movepool, Archaludon can help its team in different ways. Stealth Rock provides value in most games, Thunder Wave can hinder faster foes, phazing moves can increase the value of entry hazards, and dual screens can enable wincon teammates. Its physical bulk gives it the turns it needs to execute any of these plans. Sturdy makes it a safe lead, and the threat of its strong attacks can give it opportunities to safely use utility moves in other situations.

**Tank**: Stamina and Iron Defense can boost Archaludon's Defense to insane levels, making it difficult for any physical attacker to get through it. Body Press becomes increasingly dangerous as its Defense rises, and it can also opt to attack with special attacks. Rest allows it to sit on the field longer, while Roar and Dragon Tail shut down opposing setup Pokemon.

Common Moves
========
**Primary STAB moves**: Flash Cannon, Dragon Pulse, Draco Meteor, Steel Beam

**Setup moves**: Iron Defense

**Utility moves**: Stealth Rock, Roar, Dragon Tail, Rest, Thunder Wave, Reflect, Light Screen, Brick Break

**Coverage**: Electro Shot, Body Press, Aura Sphere, Dark Pulse, Thunderbolt, Foul Play, Tera Blast

Niche Moves
========
**Physical attacks**: Archaludon will typically get the most value out of special attacks and Body Press, but it has a usable Attack stat and physical movepool. Moves like Earthquake and Stone Edge help it hit more Pokemon super effectively and break through special walls like Galarian Slowking. It can even use Swords Dance as well if it requires additional damage output.

**Mirror Coat / Metal Burst**: Moves like Mirror Coat are fairly risky, but they can be devastating to foes if successful. They're most effective when used against special attackers that expect a safe opportunity to attack. Sturdy or a resistance Berry can help Archaludon survive the turn they're used.

Common Items
========
**Leftovers**: Leftovers grants Archaludon much-needed recovery on its Stamina sets, allowing it to stick around for longer as it gains Defense boosts.

**Assault Vest**: A boost to Special Defense helps to mitigate Archaludon's special frailty. This lets Archaludon stay on the field longer against special attackers that might otherwise force it out, while Stamina still lets it stave off physical threats.

**Choice Specs**: Choice Specs provides extra wallbreaking power, making it easier to OHKO or 2HKO specific foes.

Niche Items
========
**Sitrus Berry**: The recovery from a Sitrus Berry can be more impactful than that of Leftovers, mainly against offensive drafts that force faster games.

**Resistance Berry**: A resistance Berry, combined with Archaludon's bulk, can allow it to lure in and defeat its checks.

**Custap Berry**: On lead sets with Sturdy, a Custap Berry will guarantee a second action against most foes, even if they are faster.

**Power Herb**: Power Herb allows the charge turn of Electro Shot or Meteor Beam to be skipped once, granting a Special Attack boost alongside a powerful attack.

**Choice Scarf**: Archaludon has just enough Speed to outpace most unboosted Pokemon when running a Choice Scarf. The extra Speed can turn it into a decent revenge killer or cleaner.

**Heavy-Duty Boots**: Archaludon is not concerned by most entry hazards, but Spikes can chip it down quickly. In hazard-heavy matchups, Heavy-Duty Boots can allow Archaludon to reliably switch in multiple times while maintaining its health.

**Rocky Helmet**: Defensive sets can use Rocky Helmet to deal extra damage to physical attackers, further punishing their attacks alongside the boosts from Stamina.

**Eject Pack**: Eject Pack switches Archaludon out after it uses Draco Meteor, providing more offensive momentum than it's usually capable of.

Tera
========
Stamina encourages Archaludon to stay on the field to accumulate Defense boosts, and a defensive Tera can give it more time to do so. Tera Flying and Fairy are effective at patching the holes in its defenses. Tera Fighting is another good option for removing weaknesses and increasing the power of Body Press. As with any attacker, its STAB moves and other coverage can also be boosted with Tera. Archaludon makes for a good Tera Captain, but it fits best when paired with pricier picks from earlier rounds that are either banned from using Tera or do not need it.

Draft Strategy
========
Archaludon adds a lot to drafts that lack physical bulk and special wallbreakers. It fits best on drafts where it can use Tera, but it provides good power and utility even when it can't.

**Cleaners**: Archaludon is fairly slow, so it will generally be unable to sweep or clean. Fast Pokemon, like Iron Valiant or Meowscarada, are important for maintaining a balanced draft.

**Physical attackers**: Physical offense is important to have alongside Archaludon to help break through opponents' defensive cores. Most high-value wallbreakers that won't be using Tera, such as Great Tusk and Sneasler, are great options, though it can still work alongside Tera users like Ogerpon-W.

**Flying-types**: Most Flying-type Pokemon resist Archaludon's only weaknesses, so they can form a solid defensive core with it. Bulky pivots like Tornadus-T, Zapdos, and Moltres can protect it from its checks and help get it on the field more reliably.

**Fairy-type check**: Despite being a Steel-type, Archaludon doesn't defensively answer most Fairy-types. It's important to have at least one Pokemon that can handle them like Iron Moth or Iron Treads.

**Special Defense**: Archaludon's Special Defense and Speed are fairly low, so it appreciates at least one teammate that is capable of taking special attacks for it like Slowking and Ting-Lu. Many Pokemon with good Special Defense can also protect Archaludon with Light Screen.

**Rain**: Electro Shot is an incredible attack when it is raining, so Pelipper is a great teammate for Archaludon. Archaludon's typing also provides some valuable resistances for Pelipper and the Water-types that enjoy rain. If Pelipper isn't drafted, teammates that can utilize rain, such as Palafin or Overqwil, can make Rain Dance more viable as an option for support Pokemon.

**Healing**: Archaludon is forced to rely on Leftovers, Rest, or Berries to recover its HP. Assault Vest sets have access to none of these, so teammates that provide healing can be helpful. Wish, Healing Wish, or Grassy Terrain are all decent options, with Grassy Terrain also protecting Archaludon from Earthquake.

Checks and Counters
========
**Special attackers**: Archaludon is incredibly bulky on the physical side but struggles with even neutral hits from special attackers like Raging Bolt and Darkrai. Items and teammates can help it with these matchups, but it will often be forced to switch out.

**Wallbreakers**: Powerful wallbreakers, like Great Tusk and Urshifu-S, will usually outspeed Archaludon and easily break through its defenses before Stamina kicks in, limiting its tanking capabilities. Teammates that can take these attacks for it help a lot, as well as teammates with strong offensive pressure that keep opposing wallbreakers in check.

**Ground-types**: Besides being weak to Ground-type attacks, Ground-types in general are problematic for Archaludon because they block Electro Shot, potentially wasting turns of rain. This can be played around; but it's important to consider when using Electro Shot and rain.

**Residual damage**: Due to Archaludon's lack of reliable recovery, teams with good momentum and that are capable of stacking entry hazards can force it to repeatedly take chip damage and switch out. Items like Heavy-Duty Boots and Rocky Helmet are useful against such teams, as well as teammates with strong hazard control.

[credits]
Written by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/scionicle.599989/
Quality checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/celestiial.613399/
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/nyx.564960/
Grammar checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/ken.594478/

 

[scionicle]

Edited with suggestions from Celeste

 

[Celestiial]

[overview]
**Draft order**: Round 4 onwards Round 3 onwards, be considerate of the smogon format

**Price range**: 12-14 points 12 might be a bit low, 13-14 is fine

**Overview**: Archaludon is a powerful special attacker with amazing physical bulk and strong utility options. Its signature move, Electro Shot, makes it a good fit for rain teams. Stamina makes it difficult to take down, but it can be held back by its average Speed and pitiful Special Defense. With a strong core and proper support, the bridge can fill several roles well.


[strategy comments]
Common Roles
========
**Wallbreaker**: Archaludon’s high Special Attack, (ac) and access to Electro Shot strong STAB options, and coverage electro shock is cool, but it doesnt define archaludon as a wallbreaker in anything other then rain make it adept at punching holes in opposing teams when paired with boosting items like Choice Specs. It also has the Speed to outpace most defensive Pokemon, and the bulk to survive physical hits from a variety of foes.

**Utility**: With its impressive support movepool, Archaludon can help its team in different ways. Sturdy makes it an effective Stealth Rock lead, and the threat of its strong attacks can give it opportunities to use utility moves in other situations as well. You've only listed stealth rocks. Include moves like Thunder Wave, some phasing options to be more specific about what utility archaludon provides, and how its bulk can enable this.

**Tank**: Stamina and Iron Defense can boost Archaludon’s Defense to insane levels, making it difficult for any physical attacker to get through it. Body Press becomes increasingly dangerous as its Defense rises, and it can also opt to attack with special attacks. Rest allows it to sit on the field longer, while Roar and Dragon Tail shut down opposing setup Pokemon.

Common Moves
========
**Primary STAB moves**: Flash Cannon, Dragon Pulse, Draco Meteor, Steel Beam

**Setup moves**: Iron Defense, Swords Dance

**Utility moves**: Stealth Rock, Roar, Dragon Tail, Rest, Thunder Wave, Reflect, Light Screen, Brick Break, Metal Burst, Mirror Coat

**Coverage**: Electro Shot, Body Press, Aura Sphere, Dark Pulse, Thunderbolt, Foul Play, If you want to list swords dance include physical coverage here

Niche Moves
========
**Physical attacks**: Archaludon will typically get the most value out of special attacks and Body Press, but it has a usable Attack stat and physical movepool. Moves like Earthquake and Stone Edge help it hit more Pokemon super-effectively and break through special walls like Galarian Slowking. It can even use Swords Dance as well if it requires additional breaking power.

**Mirror Coat / Metal Burst**: Moves like Mirror Coat are fairly risky, but they can be devastating to the opponent if successful. Sturdy or a resistance Berry help Archaludon survive the turn it uses them.

Common Items
========
**Leftovers**: Leftovers grants Archaludon much-needed recovery on its Stamina sets, allowing it to stick around for longer as it gains Defense boosts.

**Assault Vest**: A boost to Special Defense turns Archaludon into a formidable mixed tank helps to mitigate Archaludon's special frailty. It can also boost its stats passively and has no reliable recovery, so there is little opportunity cost when giving up status moves. I would recommend rewording this for clarity, something along the lines of This lets Archaludon stay on the field longer against special attackers that might otherwise force it out, as Stamina still lets it stave off physical threats while its status moves aren't mandatory.

Niche Items
========
**Sitrus Berry**: The recovery from a Sitrus Berry can be more impactful than that of Leftovers, mainly against offensive drafts that force faster games.

**Resistance Berry**: A resistance Berry, combined with Archaludon’s bulk, can allow it to lure and defeat its checks.

**Custap Berry**: On lead sets with Sturdy, a Custap Berry will guarantee a second action against most foes, even if they are faster.

**Choice Specs**: Choice Specs provides extra breaking power when the opponent has good answers to Electro Shot and Body Press. This can be moved to common items imo,

**Power Herb**: Power Herb allows the charge turn of Electro Shot or Meteor Beam to be skipped once, granting a Special Attack boost alongside a powerful attack. Both options provide extra power without requiring Choice Specs or rain. When rain is available, Power Herb can guarantee that Electro Shot’s charge turn will be skipped, even if the opponent sets a different weather. Just too wordy

**Heavy-Duty Boots**: Archaludon is not concerned by most entry hazards, but Spikes can chip it down quickly. Heavy-Duty Boots are an option when Spikes are expected to out-damage Leftovers. In hazard heavy matchups Heavy Duty Boots can allow Archaludon to reliably switch in multiple times while maintaining its health.

**Rocky Helmet**: Defensive sets can use Rocky Helmet to deal extra damage to physical attackers while Stamina activates., further punishing them alongside the boost from Stamina.

**Eject Pack**: Eject Pack switches Archaludon out after it uses Draco Meteor, providing more offensive momentum than it’s usually capable of.

Choice scarf could be mentioned, 85 speed is just viable enough to be worthwhile in some matches.

Tera
========
Archaludon makes for a fine Tera Captain, but there will often be better options available. Stamina and Electro Shot both encourage it to stay on the field to accumulate stat boosts, and a defensive Tera can give it more time to do so. Reword this to focus on electro shot less, its a good move but can be difficult to fit on Archaludon outside of rain and thus shouldn't be used as a "staple" of what makes ita a good tera captain. However, Steel and Dragon is a strong combination, both offensively and defensively, so it doesn’t always need the benefits of Tera. This is a flawed way to present this point, Steel Dragon is a nice combo but tera allows Archaludon to bypass weaknesses like Ground and Fighting (notably with tera Fairy and Flying) and can also make up for its lack of defensive utility due to being a steel that doesnt resist dragon and fairy. I would restructure this argument a bit. Rulesets that restrict most high-value Pokemon from using Tera, or ones that allow for multiple Tera users without cost restrictions can make it a good pick.

Stamina and Electro Shot both encourage Archaludon to stay on the field to accumulate stat boosts, and a defensive Tera can give it more time to do so. Reword this to focus on electro shot less, its a good move but can be difficult to fit on Archaludon outside of rain and thus shouldn't be used as a "staple" of what makes ita a good tera captain. Tera Flying, Bug, and Fairy are effective at patching the holes in its defenses. Tera Fighting is another nice option for removing weaknesses and increasing the power of Body Press. Archaludon doesn’t have the best coverage options, so using Tera Blast to handle specific threats is another viable option. Its coverage options are pretty effective into most things, few pokemon actually handle steel dragon well + electric and fighting moves. However, it doesn’t always need the benefits of Tera to accomplish its goals. As a result, it will often not be the best choice for Tera Captain. Rulesets that restrict most high-value Pokemon from using Tera, or ones that allow for multiple Tera users without cost restrictions can make it a better pick. Arch does benefit from tera a decent amount, but it pairs best with higher tiers that are tera banned if you intend on using it for tera. Try and rewrite this to reflect this choice more positively, as this gives the impression that tera archaludon isnt very good.

Draft Strategy
========
Archaludon fits well on teams that lack physical bulk and special wallbreakers. As a mid-tier pick, it demands a strong foundation before it should be considered. Pokemon that fill similar roles to it should still be considered to avoid it being forced into the same role each week. The following traits are also important for getting the most out of Archaludon. describe more the exact role that arch provides on a team, the next segments are here to explain the strong foundations that support Archaludon, so you can make this more concise and informative.

**Rain**: Electro Shot is an incredible attack when it is raining, so Pelipper is a great teammate for Archaludon. Archaludon’s typing also provides some valuable resistances for Pelipper and the Water-types that enjoy rain. If Pelipper isn’t drafted, allies that can utilize rain, such as Palafin or Overqwil, can make Rain Dance more viable as an option for support Pokemon. I would put this a bit lower, rain Archaludon is good but i think it shouldnt be the only reason people draft it, as rain is a bit unreliable in draft. This is just so that it doesnt imply rain teams are the best archetype for Archaludon

**Cleaners**: Archaludon is fairly slow, so it will generally be unable to sweep or clean. Fast Pokemon, like Iron Valiant or Barraskewda Iron Bouder/Meowscarada, are important for maintaining a balanced draft.

**Flying-types**: Most Flying-type Pokemon resist Archaludon’s only weaknesses, so they can form a solid defensive core with it. Bulky pivots like Tornadus-T, Zapdos and Moltres can protect it from its checks, and help get it on the field more reliably.

**Fairy check**: Despite being a Steel-type, Archaludon doesn’t enjoy fighting defensively answer most Fairy-types. It is important to have at least one Pokemon that can handle Fairy-types, like Iron Moth or Iron Treads.

**Special Defense**: Archaludon’s Special Defense and Speed are fairly low, so it appreciates at least one ally capable of taking special attacks for it, like Slowking and Ting-Lu.. Slowking is a great example, but cheaper Pokemon like Gliscor and Gardevoir can work as well.

I recommend noting physical attackers here in some capacity

Checks and Counters
========
**Special attackers**: Archaludon is incredibly bulky on the physical side, but struggles with even neutral hits from special attackers like Raging Bolt and Darkrai. Using an Assault Vest patches up can patch this weakness, but removes its only recovery options, leaving it prone to getting chipped down. Allies can help circumvent these issues using support options like Wish, Healing Wish, Grassy Terrain, or Light Screen. This should be in partners, not here. But I don't think its necessarily worth including there.

**Wallbreakers**: Powerful wallbreakers, like Great Tusk and Urshifu-S, can easily break through Archaludon’s defenses before Stamina grants enough boosts, limiting its tanking capabilities. Allies that can take these hits for it help a lot, as well as allies with strong offensive pressure that keep opposing wallbreakers in check. Not necessarily tanking all the time, wallbreakers also are able to easily revenge arch and this should be noted, because its speed is its most limiting factor in this aspect

**Ground-types**: Besides being a type weakness, Ground is problematic for Archaludon because they block Electro Shot, potentially wasting turns of rain. This can be played around; it’s just important to consider when using Electro Shot and rain.

[credits]
Written by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/scionicle.599989/
Quality checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/celestiial.613399/
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/user3.300000
Grammar checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/user4.400000

QC 1/2
Add Remove Comments

 

[scionicle]

Implemented; leaving it as 12-14 points and keeping Mirror Coat/Metal Burst as niche moves though. Thanks!

 

[Nyx]

scionicle, post: 9953647, member: 599989

[overview]
**Draft order**: Round 3 onwards

**Price range**: 12-14 points

**Overview**: Archaludon is a powerful special attacker with amazing physical bulk and strong utility options. Its signature move, Electro Shot, makes it a good fit for rain teams. Stamina makes it difficult to take down, but it can be held back by its average Speed and pitiful Special Defense. With a strong core and proper support, the bridge can fill several roles well.


[strategy comments]
Common Roles
========
**Wallbreaker**: Archaludon’s high Special Attack, strong STAB options, and coverage make it adept at punching holes in opposing teams when paired with boosting items like Choice Specs. It also has the Speed to outpace most defensive Pokemon, and the bulk to survive physical hits from a variety of foes. id make mention of electro shot on here, perhaps after the specs part? tag me on discord if u cant figure this out and we can look together

**Utility**: With its impressive support movepool, Archaludon can help its team in different ways. Stealth Rock provides value in most games, Thunder Wave can weaken faster foes, phasing moves can increase the value of entry hazards, and dual screens can enable allied wincons. Its physical bulk gives it the turns it needs to execute any of these plans. Sturdy makes it a safe lead, and the threat of its strong attacks can give it opportunities to safely use utility moves in other situations.

**Tank**: Stamina and Iron Defense can boost Archaludon’s Defense to insane levels, making it difficult for any physical attacker to get through it. Body Press becomes increasingly dangerous as its Defense rises, and it can also opt to attack with special attacks. Rest allows it to sit on the field longer, while Roar and Dragon Tail shut down opposing setup Pokemon.

Common Moves
========
**Primary STAB moves**: Flash Cannon, Dragon Pulse, Draco Meteor, Steel Beam

**Setup moves**: Iron Defense

**Utility moves**: Stealth Rock, Roar, Dragon Tail, Rest, Thunder Wave, Reflect, Light Screen, Brick Break

**Coverage**: Electro Shot, Body Press, Aura Sphere, Dark Pulse, Thunderbolt, Foul Play, Tera Blast

Niche Moves
========
**Physical attacks**: Archaludon will typically get the most value out of special attacks and Body Press, but it has a usable Attack stat and physical movepool. Moves like Earthquake and Stone Edge help it hit more Pokemon super-effectively and break through special walls like Galarian Slowking. It can even use Swords Dance as well if it requires additional breaking power.

**Mirror Coat / Metal Burst**: Moves like Mirror Coat are fairly risky, but they can be devastating to the opponent if successful. Sturdy or a resistance Berry help Archaludon survive the turn it uses them. id mention that spc attackers dont tend to expect mirror coat which is why its so effective

Common Items
========
**Leftovers**: Leftovers grants Archaludon much-needed recovery on its Stamina sets, allowing it to stick around for longer as it gains Defense boosts.

**Assault Vest**: A boost to Special Defense helps to mitigate Archaludon's special frailty. This lets Archaludon stay on the field longer against special attackers that might otherwise force it out, while Stamina still lets it stave off physical threats.

**Choice Specs**: Choice Specs provides extra breaking power, making it easier to OHKO or 2HKO specific foes.

Niche Items
========
**Sitrus Berry**: The recovery from a Sitrus Berry can be more impactful than that of Leftovers, mainly against offensive drafts that force faster games.

**Resistance Berry**: A resistance Berry, combined with Archaludon’s bulk, can allow it to lure and defeat its checks.

**Custap Berry**: On lead sets with Sturdy, a Custap Berry will guarantee a second action against most foes, even if they are faster.

**Power Herb**: Power Herb allows the charge turn of Electro Shot or Meteor Beam to be skipped once, granting a Special Attack boost alongside a powerful attack.

**Choice Scarf**: Archaludon has just enough Speed to outpace most unboosted Pokemon when running a Choice Scarf. The extra Speed can turn it into a decent revenge killer or cleaner.

**Heavy-Duty Boots**: Archaludon is not concerned by most entry hazards, but Spikes can chip it down quickly. In hazard-heavy matchups, Heavy-Duty Boots can allow Archaludon to reliably switch in multiple times, while maintaining its health.

**Rocky Helmet**: Defensive sets can use Rocky Helmet to deal extra damage to physical attackers, further punishing their attacks alongside the boosts from Stamina.

**Eject Pack**: Eject Pack switches Archaludon out after it uses Draco Meteor, providing more offensive momentum than it’s usually capable of.

Tera
========
Stamina encourages Archaludon to stay on the field to accumulate Defense boosts, and a defensive Tera can give it more time to do so. Tera Flying and Fairy are effective at patching the holes in its defenses. Tera Fighting is another good option for removing weaknesses and increasing the power of Body Press. As with any attacker, its STAB moves and other coverage can also be boosted with Tera. Archaludon makes for a good Tera Captain, but fits best when paired with higher tiers that are either banned from using Tera, or do not need it.

Draft Strategy
========
Archaludon adds a lot to drafts that lack physical bulk and special wallbreakers. It fits best on drafts where it can use Tera, but provides good power and utility even when it can’t.

**Cleaners**: Archaludon is fairly slow, so it will generally be unable to sweep or clean. Fast Pokemon, like Iron Valiant or Meowscarada, are important for maintaining a balanced draft.

**Physical Attackers**: Physical offense is important to have alongside Archaludon to help break through opponents’ defensive cores. its boring ik but give examples, id do like, sneasler, tusk but mention it can even work alongside tera hogs like waterpon

**Flying-types**: Most Flying-type Pokemon resist Archaludon’s only weaknesses, so they can form a solid defensive core with it. Bulky pivots like Tornadus-T, Zapdos and Moltres can protect it from its checks, and help get it on the field more reliably.

**Fairy check**: Despite being a Steel-type, Archaludon doesn’t defensively answer most Fairy-types. It’s important to have at least one Pokemon that can handle them, like Iron Moth or Iron Treads.

**Special Defense**: Archaludon’s Special Defense and Speed are fairly low, so it appreciates at least one ally capable of taking special attacks for it. Slowking and Ting-Lu. Many Pokemon with good Special Defense can also protect Archaludon with Light Screen.

**Rain**: Electro Shot is an incredible attack when it is raining, so Pelipper is a great teammate for Archaludon. Archaludon’s typing also provides some valuable resistances for Pelipper and the Water-types that enjoy rain. If Pelipper isn’t drafted, allies that can utilize rain, such as Palafin or Overqwil, can make Rain Dance more viable as an option for support Pokemon.

**Healing**: Archaludon is forced to rely on Leftovers, Rest, or Berries to recover its HP. Assault Vest sets have access to none of these, so allies that provide healing can be helpful. Wish, Healing Wish, or Grassy Terrain are all decent options, with Grassy Terrain also protecting Archaludon from Earthquake.

Checks and Counters
========
**Special attackers**: Archaludon is incredibly bulky on the physical side, but struggles with even neutral hits from special attackers like Raging Bolt and Darkrai. Items and allies can help it with these matchups, but it will often be forced to switch out.

**Wallbreakers**: Powerful wallbreakers, like Great Tusk and Urshifu-S, will usually outspeed Archaludon and easily break through its defenses before Stamina kicks in, limiting its tanking capabilities. Allies that can take these hits for it help a lot, as well as allies with strong offensive pressure that keep opposing wallbreakers in check.

**Ground-types**: Besides being a type weakness, Ground is problematic for Archaludon because they block Electro Shot, potentially wasting turns of rain. This can be played around; but it’s important to consider when using Electro Shot and rain.

possibly a point on residual chip? like, a momentum core + a spike can be debilitating since arch has no reliable recovery and is easily forced out by so many momentum based top threats

[credits]
Written by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/scionicle.599989/
Quality checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/celestiial.613399/
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/nyx.564960/
Grammar checked by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/user4.400000

QC 2/2 Stop writing so well I feel bad sending a QC check w/ so little sob (read: do not stop writing so well)

 

[scionicle]

Implemented; thank you!

 

[scionicle]

GP Team gm (definitely didn't forget to tag)

 

[ken]

1/1 GP Team done
add remove comment

BRIDGE 1

BRIDGE 2

[overview]
**Draft order**: Round 3 onwards

**Price range**: 12-14 points

**Overview**: Archaludon is a powerful special attacker with amazing physical bulk and strong utility options. Its signature move, Electro Shot, makes it a good fit for rain teams. Stamina makes it difficult to take down, but it can be held back by its average Speed and pitiful Special Defense. With a strong core and proper support, the bridge can fill several roles well.


[strategy comments]
Common Roles
========
**Wallbreaker**: Archaludon's high Special Attack, strong STAB options, and coverage make it adept at punching holes in opposing teams when paired with damage-boosting items like Choice Specs. Electro Shot can further increase its damage output if combined with rain or a Power Herb. It also has the Speed to outpace most defensive Pokemon (rc) and the bulk to survive physical hits from a variety of foes.

**Utility**: With its impressive support movepool, Archaludon can help its team in different ways. Stealth Rock provides value in most games, Thunder Wave can weaken hinder faster foes, phasing phazing moves can increase the value of entry hazards, and dual screens can enable allied wincons wincon teammates. Its physical bulk gives it the turns it needs to execute any of these plans. Sturdy makes it a safe lead, and the threat of its strong attacks can give it opportunities to safely use utility moves in other situations.

**Tank**: Stamina and Iron Defense can boost Archaludon's Defense to insane levels, making it difficult for any physical attacker to get through it. Body Press becomes increasingly dangerous as its Defense rises, and it can also opt to attack with special attacks. Rest allows it to sit on the field longer, while Roar and Dragon Tail shut down opposing setup Pokemon.

Common Moves
========
**Primary STAB moves**: Flash Cannon, Dragon Pulse, Draco Meteor, Steel Beam

**Setup moves**: Iron Defense

**Utility moves**: Stealth Rock, Roar, Dragon Tail, Rest, Thunder Wave, Reflect, Light Screen, Brick Break

**Coverage**: Electro Shot, Body Press, Aura Sphere, Dark Pulse, Thunderbolt, Foul Play, Tera Blast

Niche Moves
========
**Physical attacks**: Archaludon will typically get the most value out of special attacks and Body Press, but it has a usable Attack stat and physical movepool. Moves like Earthquake and Stone Edge help it hit more Pokemon super (rh) effectively and break through special walls like Galarian Slowking. It can even use Swords Dance as well if it requires additional breaking power damage output.

**Mirror Coat / Metal Burst**: Moves like Mirror Coat are fairly risky, but they can be devastating to the opponent foes if successful. They're most effective when used against special attackers that expect a safe opportunity to attack. Sturdy or a resistance Berry can help Archaludon survive the turn they're used.

Common Items
========
**Leftovers**: Leftovers grants Archaludon much-needed recovery on its Stamina sets, allowing it to stick around for longer as it gains Defense boosts.

**Assault Vest**: A boost to Special Defense helps to mitigate Archaludon's special frailty. This lets Archaludon stay on the field longer against special attackers that might otherwise force it out, while Stamina still lets it stave off physical threats.

**Choice Specs**: Choice Specs provides extra wallbreaking power, making it easier to OHKO or 2HKO specific foes.

Niche Items
========
**Sitrus Berry**: The recovery from a Sitrus Berry can be more impactful than that of Leftovers, mainly against offensive drafts that force faster games.

**Resistance Berry**: A resistance Berry, combined with Archaludon's bulk, can allow it to lure in and defeat its checks.

**Custap Berry**: On lead sets with Sturdy, a Custap Berry will guarantee a second action against most foes, even if they are faster.

**Power Herb**: Power Herb allows the charge turn of Electro Shot or Meteor Beam to be skipped once, granting a Special Attack boost alongside a powerful attack.

**Choice Scarf**: Archaludon has just enough Speed to outpace most unboosted Pokemon when running a Choice Scarf. The extra Speed can turn it into a decent revenge killer or cleaner.

**Heavy-Duty Boots**: Archaludon is not concerned by most entry hazards, but Spikes can chip it down quickly. In hazard-heavy matchups, Heavy-Duty Boots can allow Archaludon to reliably switch in multiple times (rc) while maintaining its health.

**Rocky Helmet**: Defensive sets can use Rocky Helmet to deal extra damage to physical attackers, further punishing their attacks alongside the boosts from Stamina.

**Eject Pack**: Eject Pack switches Archaludon out after it uses Draco Meteor, providing more offensive momentum than it's usually capable of.

Tera
========
Stamina encourages Archaludon to stay on the field to accumulate Defense boosts, and a defensive Tera can give it more time to do so. Tera Flying and Fairy are effective at patching the holes in its defenses. Tera Fighting is another good option for removing weaknesses and increasing the power of Body Press. As with any attacker, its STAB moves and other coverage can also be boosted with Tera. Archaludon makes for a good Tera Captain, but it fits best when paired with higher tiers pricier picks from earlier rounds assuming you mean this here that are either banned from using Tera (rc) or do not need it.

Draft Strategy
========
Archaludon adds a lot to drafts that lack physical bulk and special wallbreakers. It fits best on drafts where it can use Tera, but it provides good power and utility even when it can't.

**Cleaners**: Archaludon is fairly slow, so it will generally be unable to sweep or clean. Fast Pokemon, like Iron Valiant or Meowscarada, are important for maintaining a balanced draft.

**Physical attackers**: Physical offense is important to have alongside Archaludon to help break through opponents' defensive cores. Most high-value wallbreakers that won't be using Tera, such as Great Tusk and Sneasler, are great options, though it can still work alongside Tera users like Ogerpon-W.

**Flying-types**: Most Flying-type Pokemon resist Archaludon's only weaknesses, so they can form a solid defensive core with it. Bulky pivots like Tornadus-T, Zapdos, (ac) and Moltres can protect it from its checks (rc) and help get it on the field more reliably.

**Fairy-type check**: Despite being a Steel-type, Archaludon doesn't defensively answer most Fairy-types. It's important to have at least one Pokemon that can handle them (rc) like Iron Moth or Iron Treads.

**Special Defense**: Archaludon's Special Defense and Speed are fairly low, so it appreciates at least one ally teammate that is capable of taking special attacks for it (rp) like Slowking and Ting-Lu. Many Pokemon with good Special Defense can also protect Archaludon with Light Screen.

**Rain**: Electro Shot is an incredible attack when it is raining, so Pelipper is a great teammate for Archaludon. Archaludon's typing also provides some valuable resistances for Pelipper and the Water-types that enjoy rain. If Pelipper isn't drafted, allies teammates that can utilize rain, such as Palafin or Overqwil, can make Rain Dance more viable as an option for support Pokemon.

**Healing**: Archaludon is forced to rely on Leftovers, Rest, or Berries to recover its HP. Assault Vest sets have access to none of these, so allies teammates that provide healing can be helpful. Wish, Healing Wish, or Grassy Terrain are all decent options, with Grassy Terrain also protecting Archaludon from Earthquake.

Checks and Counters
========
**Special attackers**: Archaludon is incredibly bulky on the physical side (rc) but struggles with even neutral hits from special attackers like Raging Bolt and Darkrai. Items and allies teammates can help it with these matchups, but it will often be forced to switch out.

**Wallbreakers**: Powerful wallbreakers, like Great Tusk and Urshifu-S, will usually outspeed Archaludon and easily break through its defenses before Stamina kicks in, limiting its tanking capabilities. Allies Teammates that can take these hits attacks for it help a lot, as well as allies teammates with strong offensive pressure that keep opposing wallbreakers in check.

**Ground-types**: Besides being a type weakness Besides being weak to Ground-type attacks, Ground-types in general are is problematic for Archaludon because they block Electro Shot, potentially wasting turns of rain. This can be played around; but it's important to consider when using Electro Shot and rain.

**Residual damage**: Due to Archaludon's lack of reliable recovery, teams with good momentum and that are capable of stacking entry hazards stacking can force it to repeatedly take chip damage and switch out. Items like Heavy-Duty Boots and Rocky Helmet are useful against such teams, as well as allies teammates with strong hazard control.

[credits]
Written by:
https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/scionicle.599989/
Quality checked by:
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https://www.smogon.com/forums/members/nyx.564960/
Grammar checked by:
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