NU Carracosta

[CrushinDefeat]

QC'ers: [ Soulgazer ] [ Punchshroom ] [ Aladyyn ]
GP'ers: [ fleurdyleurse ] [ horyzhnz ]

"Turtles in a half shell! Turtle Power!!"

Overview
########
Carracosta's resilient Defense and deadly Attack are strong reasons as to why it's one of the deadliest Shell Smash sweepers in NU. On top of this, Carracosta has three incredible abilities in Solid Rock, Sturdy, and Swift Swim, allowing Carracosta to tank strong hits, survive fatal blows, or double its Speed under rain. Carracosta is best known for its access to Shell Smash and Stealth Rock, allowing it to be a deadly sweeper or an entry hazard setter. Carracosta edges out other Shell Smash users such as Barbaracle due to its access to Aqua Jet and slightly better physical bulk. In addition to this, Solid Rock is another reason why Carracosta is preferred over Barbaracle. However, Carracosta's low Speed leaves it prone to status and getting Taunted, preventing the use of crucial moves such as Shell Smash and Stealth Rock. Carracosta cannot hide its glaringly low Special Defense either, as it is weak against special attackers such as Mesprit, Mismagius, and Samurott.

Shell Smash
########
name: Shell Smash
move 1: Shell Smash
move 2: Waterfall
move 3: Stone Edge
move 4: Aqua Jet
ability: Solid Rock
item: Life Orb
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
nature: Adamant

Moves
========
Shell Smash is Carracosta's ace in the hole, allowing its Attack, Special Attack, and Speed to spike up two stages, making it extremely dangerous and allowing it to become a strong offensive sweeper. Waterfall is a very reliable STAB move that's great for dealing huge damage and has a 20% chance to flinch opponents as well. Waterfall can be great for dealing with Rhydon, Hariyama, and Sandslash. Stone Edge is very strong against opponents that resist Water-type moves, and is useful against Lilligant and Vileplume. Aqua Jet is used to pick off weakened targets without risking any unnecessary damage.

Set Details
========
Maximized Attack and Speed investment is used to allow Carracosta to sweep opponents with relative ease. Equipped with a Life Orb, Carracosta can yield maximum damage output at the cost of lowering its HP. However, Carracosta can also utilize a Lum Berry if any pesky status effects such as paralysis or burn are inflicted while it's setting up. In addition to that, Carracosta can also capitalize on its strong defenses by using Weakness Policy; tanking a hit and allowing it to become a scary offensive presence. An Adamant nature with a Life Orb and Shell Smash can allow Carracosta to OHKO top threats such as Pyroar, Archeops, Magmortar, Rotom-Fan, and it can even OHKO non-defensive Spiritomb as well. Alternatively, a Jolly nature may be used to spike Carracosta's Speed, allowing it to outspeed priority users such as Liepard after a Shell Smash and nail it with its own priority Aqua Jet. Lastly, Sturdy may also be used in conjunction with Weakness Policy instead of Solid Rock to prevent Carracosta from fainting and allow it to survive any hit while setting up.

Usage Tips
========
Send out Carracosta mid- to late-game; it functions well as a mid- and late-game sweeper when threats such as special Grass-types are gone, entry hazards are taken care of, and when there aren't any prominent Fighting-types around. Set up Shell Smash on the turn it's sent out, but be very wary of Thunder Wave users and avoid setting up on them. Switch immediately if they are Thunder Wave users as they'll more often than not paralyze Carracosta, making it a sitting duck against opponents. Spamming Waterfall and Stone Edge works, but Waterfall is more reliable as it has more accuracy. Use Stone Edge only when it's needed, as relying on Stone Edge is very risky, considering its imperfect accuracy. Hit weakened foes with Aqua Jet; it'll save Carracosta HP and get rid of targets without taking unnecessary damage.

Team Options
========
Teammates such as Garbodor are great for Carracosta. Unlike Ferroseed, Garbodor isn't complete setup bait and can utilize Spikes / Toxic Spikes, while also covering Grass-types fairly well. Dragalge is a strong partner as it forms a good core with Carracosta due to their nice defensive synergy synergy. Carracosta resists Ice-type moves, while Dragalge can tank special attacks for Carracosta. Dragalge also has an easy time dealing with Grass-types. Electivire can be great as well, boosting its Speed from any Volt Switch users or Thunder Wave users. Offensive sweepers, such as Swords Dance Feraligatr and Lilligant, are great partners as Carracosta benefits from their typings. Typhlosion is also a great partner for dealing with Grass-types. Carracosta can shield it from strong Water-types while it removes special Grass-types. Choice Band Torterra is a great teammate as it not resists Ground-type moves, but also hits like a truck. Mesprit also works as a great partner because of its bulkiness. Carracosta can switch to Mesprit in case a Water- or Grass-type come into play, and it can proceed to neutralize both with Energy Ball and Hidden Power Fire respectively.

Stealth Rock
########
name: Stealth Rock
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Scald
move 3: Rock Slide
move 4: Toxic / Knock Off
ability: Solid Rock
item: Leftovers
evs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD
nature: Relaxed

Moves
========
Stealth Rock is a powerful entry hazard that causes residual damage and breaks Focus Sash. Scald is not only great for coverage against Rock- and Fire-types, but is also great for punishing opponents with a burn, lowering their HP and their Attack. Rock Slide is Carracosta's most reliable offensive move that can do the most damage against opponents. Alternatively, Stone Edge can be used instead of Rock Slide for even more damage, but it is less accurate. Toxic can be used to break down strong walls; because of Carracosta's strong Defense, it can tank a few attacks while an opponent gets whittled down by poison damage. Coupled with Stealth Rock, Toxic can cause opponents to switch repeatedly, causing them to get damaged by entry hazards and status. Alternatively, Knock Off may also be used as a means for Carracosta to get rid of useful items that the opponent has, such as Eviolite, Assault Vest, Choice items, and Life Orb. Finally, Aqua Jet can be used instead of Toxic or Knock Off to pick off weakened threats and to avoid unnecessary damage.

Set Details
========
Carracosta will need maximum HP and Defense investment to tank attacks from opponents while it sets up Stealth Rock. Leftovers are necessary for recovery, allowing Carracosta to regain HP every turn. A Relaxed nature works perfectly to strengthen Carracosta's Defense as well. Instead of Leftovers, Rocky Helmet can also be used to punish physical attackers, Flying-types, Pokemon with U-turn, and Knock Off users.

Usage Tips
========
Carracosta's role is that of an entry hazard setter; it's designed to set up hazards and tank hits for teammates as well. Set up Stealth Rock immediately, as getting Stealth Rock up immediately is crucial because it will help pressure the opponent and cause them to think about their decisions on what to switch in and out. Spam Scald as much as possible, as fishing for burns is great for residual damage and crippling physical attackers. Throw Toxic out on walls, threats, or predicted switch-ins; this will apply yet another layer of pressure as the opponent will have to deal with Stealth Rock and be concerned with the fact that their switch-in might get poisoned. Use Stone Edge when Carracosta needs to damage a foe significantly.

Team Options
========
Offensive teammates such as Feraligatr and Magmortar work wonders for Carracosta, as they'll enjoy switching into it when a strong threat is out. Feraligatr and Magmortar can sweep easier with entry hazards and weakened foes thanks to Carracosta. Dragalge is a great partner for Carracosta because of its resistance to Grass, while Carracosta resists Ice-type moves for Dragalge. Spinblockers such as Spiritomb and Mismagius are useful to prevent the loss of hazards. Garbodor is also useful as it can utilize hazards as well and can deal with Grass-types easily.

Other Options
########
Although Carracosta is a physical sweeper, it can also become a special sweeper by utilizing Shell Smash, Hydro Pump, Ice Beam, and Hidden Power Grass. Shell Smash allows it to gain the necessary +2 Special Attack and Speed boost that it desires. Hydro Pump is Carracosta's best Water-type STAB moves, as with 110 Base Power, it's extremely powerful. Ice Beam is useful to damage Grass-types such as Lilligant, and Vileplume significantly, and also is useful against Pokemon such as Dragalge as well. Hidden Power Grass is reliable against other Water-types such as Floatzel and Lanturn that resist Hydro Pump and Ice Beam. Solid Rock is necessary to reduce damage for Carracosta. A Life Orb allows Carracosta to significantly damage opponents. Alternatively, a Lum Berry can be used on this set in case of any dangerous status effects. Maximum investment in Special Attack and Speed with either a Timid nature (for extra Speed) or a Modest nature (for extra special damage output) can also work. Carracosta can also use Earthquake as well, for great damage and reliable accuracy. Carracosta can also utilize Swift Swim on rain teams to double its Speed on top of a Shell Smash, making it 4x faster than its original Speed. Lastly, Carracosta can make great use of a White Herb when setting up with Shell Smash, canceling out all negative stat drops while retaining the boosts.

Checks & Counters
########
**Electric-types**: Pokemon such as Rotom are soft checks to Carracosta, dealing dangerous amounts of damage with Volt Switch and Thunderbolt. Electivire is also a soft check as well because of its damage output. Lastly, Raichu is also a soft check as it can force Carracosta out or deal significant damage towards it. Lanturn is a great check due to Water Absorb, limiting Carracosta's moves.

**Grass-types**: Grass-types such as Lilligant are soft checks against Carracosta as they can force Carracosta out. Sceptile is a good check as it outspeeds +2 Carracosta and takes an Aqua Jet relatively easily. Ludicolo is a great soft check due to its resistance to Water moves and access to Giga Drain and Leech Seed. Ferroseed is a great counter to Carracosta; not only does Ferroseed resist all of Carracosta's moves, it also punishes it with Iron Barbs and Gyro Ball, making Carracosta's +2 Speed a disadvantage.

**Fighting-types**: Gurdurr is a good check because of its strong defenses. Gurdurr can regain its HP with Drain Punch, making Carracosta its personal punching bag.

**Water-types**: Seismitoad is a strong counter to Carracosta because it is immune to Water-type attacks due to Water Absorb, and on top of that, it naturally resists Rock-type moves, making it more than capable of taking out Carracosta. Poliwrath, for the same reasons mentioned, can also take out Carracosta with ease.

**Status**: Burn leaves Carracosta useless as an offensive attacker, while paralysis makes it a sitting duck prone to special Grass-types.

**Special Attackers**: Jynx is a good soft check due to Dry Skin; however, it can be outsped if it is not careful and take a Stone Edge. When equipped with a Choice Scarf, Jynx can outspeed Carracosta and take it out with Focus Blast or Psychic. Samurott is a good check as it is able to utilize Grass Knot against Carracosta and take it out while it resists Waterfall and Aqua Jet. Mesprit is a good check because of its natural bulk: an Energy Ball from Mesprit can OHKO Carracosta; with a Choice Scarf, Mesprit is extremely deadly as it easily outspeeds Carracosta. Dragalge is also a good check as it resists Water-type moves and can tank 2-3 hits from Carracosta. Dragalge likes to carry Focus Blast as well. Carracosta doesn't like to switch in on special attackers as it has a hard time against them.

 

[Brawlfest]

Waterfall is definitely superior to Aqua Tail. Carracosta uses Stone Edge if it needs power, but when it wants to cleanly sweep without having to worry about accuracy, Waterfall is far more reliable, and misses no notable KOs that Aqua Tail does but is far more accurate. Furthermore, it has a flinch rate that Aqua Tail misses can often put some hax into the game and determine a win from a loss. Switch Aqua tail to OO tbh. Earthquake really shouldn't be slashed either, as Carracosta needs Aqua Jet to outspeed even common scarfers such as Rotom.

White Herb should not be used and really should be OO if anything, as Carracosta will be unable to take advantage of its bulk anyways after setting up, as it will more often than not be under 50% and the defense drops will matter very little. Instead, Life Orb and Lum Berry are far more viable. Life Orb nets notable KOs such as an OHKO on Vileplume with Stone Edge, while Lum Berry eases setup against pokemon which attempt to cripple Carracosta with Thunder Wave or Will-o-Wisp.

 

[CanadianWifier]

Echoing what was said above, Carracosta longs for reliable STAB, and having 2 moves that can miss is just dreadful. Waterfall > Aquatail
I also highly recommend Sturdy + Weakness Policy > Solid Rock + White Herb. Getting to +4 +4 +2 in one turn can be devastating and game changing.

I've been having a lot of success with Ice beam > Waterfall to beat vileplume and other grasses, though this leaves you with unreliable STAB again, as Stone Edge will be your main attack with SS / Stone Edge / Aqua Jet / Ice Beam.. Worth a slash, or at least a mention in OO. :]

 

[Blast]

Seconding all of Brawlfest's changes. I think WP is better in OO or at least Set Details, it's a little inconsistent but it's very scary if you actually pull it off. In addition Rock Slide should be the Rock move on defensive Costa, as it much prefers the consistency over the power on defensive sets.

Your OO is really weird and a lot of stuff is just random. I would remove: Rock Slide and Waterfall (as they are main options now), Blizzard, Superpower, and Iron Head, and add in Aqua Tail, EQ, and HP Grass (fuk Seismitoad).

Also I don't like that for C&C all you're doing is listing the types it's weak to and random Pokemon with those typings because it's a lot more than that lol. You should list stuff like: bulky Waters, bulky Grasses, Gurdurr, etc. The types of stuff you would actually switch in to wall or revenge kill it (so stuff like Electivire is out of the question).

 

[Ares]

Not entirely sure on having WP in oo because as it stands I think Carracosta is a fantastic user of the item between its two abilities solid rock and sturdy. Shell Smash on the predicted SE hit and then you are at +4 and ready to sweep. I for one think that it's either deserving of a slash or being mentioned in set details.
Also still havent changed the items from white herb to lum/LO, (I find it kind of funny how white herb on the surface seems like the best item for a shell smasher when in reality there are better options unless you are named Huntail/Gorebyss)
Still have Aqua tail as the stab move in moves, change it to waterfall
In set details mention what Jolly nature outspeeds, like base speed X
In the stealth rock set I think knock off deserves a slash with toxic and aqua jet, as it provides nice utility for a defensive mon, at the very least mention it in moves.
In team options mention spin blockers as the whole point of the set is to set up rocks and keep them up.
I agree with expanding the C&C.

 

[Punchshroom]

When mentioning different natures on Smash Costa, give examples of Pokes the new benchmark affects (you also did not imply that this comes mainly into play at +2). What can +2 Adamant Costa now KO (with main attacks or Aqua Jet)? What can Jolly +2 Costa outspeed?

 

[watashi]

id make lo the first item as being able to ohko vileplume is pretty huge as well as ohkoing scarf rotom most of the time with +2 aqua jet after sr

 

[scorpdestroyer]

Shell Smash:
stone edge is mainly for coverage; I wouldn't ordinarily use it against Flying-types if Waterfall already KOs. Talk about how it nabs stuff like Grass-types, Water-types.
keep weakness policy + sturdy under moves. It's definitely not Costa's best option but it is a good enough option to keep it out of OO
I wouldn't mention Jolly beating Archeops because it has Aqua Jet anyway. Change that to something else
mention what Life Orb helps beat (ie. what FLCL said)
you could mention some wallbreak-ish partners to help beat Seismitoad and Poliwrath

I won't really comment on defensive because I haven't used it much, but is max defense really superior to max HP / max Atk like it was last gen?

OO:
add a special or mixed set to lure in Vileplume more accurately, break physical walls with Hydro and KO toad with HP Grass
maybe add a SR + Smash set which helps keep up momentum while setting up rocks

Checks and Counters:
I'd remove Knock Off users, it isn't that crippling imo
Remove Ground-types because lolwut. Instead mention Seismitoad and Poliwrath in particular
Electric-types are only soft checks because Costa can KO them with Stone Edge after a little bit of residual. Make sure you get that clear.
Add some Scarf users. For example Jynx can take care of Costa and Rotom-A can do so without prior damage.

 

[TSM ryan]

mention what it has over common competition for shell smash users like barbaracle. like how it has more reliable stab in waterfall over razor shell and priority in aqua jet

 

[Blast]

Your C&C is still all wonky. Again, why are you just listing random types it's weak to? Electric-types, Hariyama / Sawk, and most Grass-types are awful checks because they're all outsped and OHKOed after a Smash, and if you're trying to directly set up on them you're doing it wrong. "Focus Blast users" doesn't even make any sense. When considering checks and counters you need to consider how you would respond to a Pokemon in a real battle situation--are you going to switch in Raichu or whatever in on Costa's Shell Smash just to be OHKOed the next turn? If you really must, you can add a separate section for "Offensive pressure" in C&C, but you really need to look over this list and ask yourself, "Is this really something I would use to respond to Carracosta?" Non-Scarfed Electric-types are shitty answers. The only Grass-types that are actually good checks are defensive ones like Tangela / Gourgeist or fast ones like Sceptile and Scarf Lilligant. Gurdurr is the only Fighting-type that stands a chance against a boosted Costa. Etc, etc, etc.

Apologies if this comes off as harsh, but tag me when you've cleaned out that section and I'll give it another look.

 

[Punchshroom]

Aside from the extremely unpolished C&C section, there are a couple of nitpicks I have throughout this analysis. For example...

• Alternatively Jolly nature for a spike in Speed to outspeed Pokemon such as Liepard and nailing it with a priority move, Carracosta can also outspeed pesky opponents such as Mismagius and Kadabra and can also outspeed Scarf Electivire, and Choice Specs Pyroar which usually carries Solar Beam or HP Grass

I'm pretty sure Jolly +2 Costa outspeeds up to base 113s (Serperior), meaning it outspeeds things like Pyroar, Tauros, and Archeops, which is like a lot more relevant than Kadabra which gets owned by Aqua Jet anyway :/ Also, SmashCosta does not outspeed Scarf EVire, or any Scarfer for that matter, and you say Specs Pyroar usually carries Solar Beam?

• - Low Speed leaving it prone to status, Taunt, Defog, Rapid Spin
• - Low Special Defense, prone to special attackers, Vileplume, Lilligant, Sceptile

Carracosta is prone to Taunt, Defog, and Rapid Spin hello? There are few Taunt users that want to risk an attack from Carracosta, while pretty much all Defoggers and Spinners do not want an STAB move to the face either. The low Speed is a bigger issue when it comes to outspeeding stuff even after Shell Smash, since there are unboosted Pokemon that still outspeed it, as well as virtually every (good) Scarfer.

Lol those attackers slaughter Carracosta even if the turtle does have good SpD. List better examples (like neutral attackers) such as Mesprit, Mismagius, and Omastar.

Moves
========

• Shell Smash allows Carracosta to spike up its Attack, Special Attack, and Speed making it extremely dangerous by doubling all stats allowing it to sweep.
• Aqua Tail, great STAB move great for dealing damage towards Camerupt, Sandslash
• Stone Edge great damage against Xatu, Archeops and Chatot.
• Aqua Jet for Priority, getting rid of weak opponents and avoiding unnecessary damage.

Waterfall is what is on the analysis yo. Also Camerupt is not a good example since Aqua Jet can KO it anyway, a better example would be something neither Stone Edge nor Aqua Jet can KO, like Rhydon or Hariyama.

 

[soulgazer]

OK, I helped CrushinDefeat to clean all of this up on IRC, removed as much fluff as possible and other things

qc 1/3 CrushinDefeat

 

[Punchshroom]

Ferroseed needs to be in C&C.

- Low Speed leaving it prone to status, Taunt, Defog, Rapid Spin

You didn't change this: no Defogger/Spinner wants to take a hit from Carracosta. The low speed is more impactful when it comes to outspeeding threats after a Shell Smash, which its fellow Smashers have less issues with.

Stone Edge great damage against Xatu, Archeops and Chatot.

This makes Stone Edge seem incredibly worthless if Costa manages to Smash, since +2 Waterfall/Jet destroys them. Considering SmashCosta prefers to be using Waterfall as much as possible, Stone Edge's biggest use would be denting Water resists, such as Grass-types.

Rock Slide on defensive Costa; the PP and accuracy are worth much more than the power.

 

[rob.]

Not sure why Aqua Jet is slashed before Toxic and Knock Off on the last set. Status moves are extremely useful for defensive Pokemon because they force switches and wear down checks/counters. Being able to inflict Toxic on Grass-type switch-ins like Tangela is much more useful than a weak Aqua Jet. Knock Off is even a better option than Aqua Jet because it can disrupt the opponents strategy by knocking off crucial items.

 

[soulgazer]

Yes I kinda forgot about the second set when I was pming you what to change lol

Stealth Rock
########
name: Stealth Rock
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Scald
move 3: Rock Slide
move 4: Toxic / Knock Off
ability: Solid Rock
item: Leftovers
evs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD
nature: Relaxed

Aqua Jet and Stone Edge in Moves. Aqua Jet should only be used if you need it to be able to revenge kill weakened threats, and Stone Edge should only be used if you need the extra power.

CrushinDefeat

 

[CrushinDefeat]

Punchshroom Rob. Soulgazer implimented both changes

 

[Punchshroom]

• Waterfall great reliable STAB move great for dealing damage towards Rhydon, Hariyama, and Sandslash.
• Stone Edge does great damage against opponents, lower accuracy than Rock Slide, but stronger in general.

I just don't understand how you can keep messing this detail up: you managed to list Waterfall targets, but still didn't list down Stone Edge targets (aka Water resists, things that don't die to +2 Waterfall). I don't even recall anyone wanting Rock Slide on SmashCosta.

 

[Punchshroom]

Much better. Also Aqua jet should be mentioned after Toxic and Knock Off, since it is unslashed.

QC 2/3

 

[Aladyyn]

(I personally think Jolly deserves the slash but I guess I'm alone in that sentiment)
[QC: 3/3]

 

[Punchshroom]

Much better. Also Aqua jet should be mentioned after Toxic and Knock Off, since it is unslashed.

• Alternatively Aqua Jet is useful for picking off weakened threats
• Toxic can be used, because of Carracosta's strong defenses it can take hits, while opponents lose significant amounts of health. Coupled with Stealth Rocks it can cause opponents to switch in and out dealing out damage and weakening opponents heavily.
• Knock Off can also be used as a means for Carracosta to get rid of useful items that the opponent has such as Eviolite, Assault Vest, various Choice items and Life Orb.

This is still not done. Aqua Jet should be below these two.

Aladyyn The only reason to consider Jolly Costa over Adamant Costa would be to outpace Liepard's Encore / Sucker Punch after Smash (already said in Usage Tips), or to beat Tauros. Otherwise, Adamant's greater power, especially regarding its priority without a Smash boost, seems more useful overall.

 

[fleurdyleurse]

hi

check

Overview
########
Carracosta’s resiliaent Defense and deadly Attack is a strong reason why it's becomone of the deadliest Shell Smash sweepers in NU this generation. On top of this, Carracosta has 3 incredible abilities in Solid Rock, Sturdy, and Swift Swim, allowing Carracosta to tank strong hits, survive fatal blows, or double up its Speed. Carracosta is best known for its access to Shell Smash and Stealth Rock niche, allowing it to be a deadly sweeper or a hazard setter. Carracosta edges out its other offensive Shell Smash opponents such as Barbaracle because of its access to Aqua Jet and slightly better physical bulk. In addition to this, Solid Rock is another reason why Carracosta is preferred over Barbaracle. However, Carracosta’s low Speed leaves it prone to status and getting tTaunted, neutralizing crucial moves such as Shell Smash and Stealth Rock. Carracosta cannot hide its glaring low sSpecial dDefense either, as it is prone to special attackers such as Mesprit, Mismagius, and Samurott.

Shell Smash
########
name: Shell Smash
move 1: Shell Smash
move 2: Waterfall
move 3: Stone Edge
move 4: Aqua Jet
ability: Solid Rock
item: Life Orb
evs: 4 Hp / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
nature: Adamant

Moves
========
Shell Smash is Carracosta’s ace in the hole, allowing its Attack, Special Attack, and Speed to spike up +2, making it extremely dangerous against foes and allows it to become an offensive sweeper. Waterfall is a very reliable STAB move that's great for dealing huge damage, and has a 20% chance to flinch opponents as well. Waterfall can be great for dealing with Rhydon, Hariyama, and Sandslash. Stone Edge is very strong against opponents that resist Water-type moves, and is useful against Lilligant and Vileplume. Aqua Jet is used to pick off weakened targets without risking any unnecessary damage.

Set Details
========
Maximized Attack and Speed is used to allow Carracosta to sweep opponents with relative ease. Equipped with a Life Orb, Carracosta can yield maximum damage output at the cost of lowering its HP. However, Carracosta can also utilize a Lum Berry in casef any pesky status inflictions such as paralysis and burn are usinflicted while it's setting up. In addition to that, Carracosta can also capitalize on its strong defenses by using Weakness Policy, tanking a hit and allowing it to become a scary offensive presence. An Adamant nature with a Life Orb and Shell Smash can allow Carracosta to OHKO top threats such as Pyroar, Archeops, Magmortar, Rotom-Fan, and can OHKO non -defensive Spiritomb as well. Alternatively, a Jolly nature may be used to spike Carracosta’s sSpeed, allowing it to out speed priority Pokemonusers such as Liepard after Shell Smash and nailing it with its own priority moves. Lastly, Sturdy may also be used in conjunction with Weakness Policy instead of Solid Rock, to prevent Carracosta from fainting and allowing it to survive while being set up.

Usage Tips
========
Send out Carracosta mid- to late -game,; it functions well as a mid- and late -game sweeper when threats such as special Grass-types are gone, hazards are taken care of or when there aren’'t any prominent Fighting-types around. Set up Shell Smash on the turn you’'re out, but be very weary of Thunderw Wave carriusers, and avoid setting up on them. Switch immediately if they are Thunderw Wave users as they’'ll mostre often than not paralyze Carracosta, making it a sitting duck against opponents. Spamming Waterfall and Stone Edge works, but Waterfall is more reliable as it has more accuracy. Use Stone Edge only when it's needed, as relying on Stone Edge is very detrimental, considering its imperfect accuracy. Hit weakened foes with Aqua Jet, it’'ll save Carracosta HP and get rid of targets without suffering damage.

Team Options
========
Teammates such as Garbodor are great for Carracosta. Unlike Ferroseed, Garbodor won’t become rendered set up bait and can utilize Spikes / Toxic Spikes. Garbodor also covers Grass-types fairly well. Dragalge also is a strong partner as it works aforms a good core with Carracosta because of their synergy. Carracosta resists Ice-type moves, while Dragalge can tank special attacks for Carracosta to get it out of harm's way. Dragalge also has an easy time dealing with Grass-types. Electivire can be great as well, boosting its Speed from any Volt Switch users or Thunderw Wave users. Offensive sweepers, such as Swords Dance Feraligatr orand Lilligant, are great partners as Carracosta benefits from their typings. Typhlosion is also a great partner for dealing with Grass-types. Carracosta can shield it from strong Water-types while it removes special Grass-types. Choice Band Torterra is a great teammate as it resists Ground-type moves, but hits like a truck against deadly opponents that attempt to harm Carracosta. Mesprit also works as a great Ppartner because of its bulkiness. Carracosta can switch into Mesprit in case a Water- or Grass-type come into play. Mesprit can neutralize both respectively with Energy Ball and Hidden Power Fire.

Stealth Rock
########
name: Stealth Rock
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Scald
move 3: Rock Slide
move 4: Toxic / Knock Off
ability: Solid Rock
item: Leftovers
evs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD
nature: Relaxed

Moves
========
Stealth Rock is a powerful entry hazard that causes opponents residual damage and breaks Focus Sash users to opponents. Scald, is not only great for coverage against Rock-and Fire-types, but is also great for punishing opponents with burn damage, lowering their HP and diminishing their Attack. Rock Slide is Carracosta’'s most reliable offensive move that can garner the most damage against opponents. Alternatively, Stone Edge can be used instead of Rock Slide for even more damage, but it is less accurate. Toxic can be used to break down strong walls,; because of Carracosta’'s strong Defense, it can tank a few attacks while an opponent gets damaged severely by poison damage. Coupled with Stealth Rock, Toxic can cause opponents to switch repeatedly, causing them to get damaged by entry hazards and status inflictions. Alternatively, Knock Off may also be used; as a means for Carracosta to get rid of useful items that the opponent has, such as Eviolite, Assault Vest, various Choice items, and Life Orb. Finally, Aqua Jet can be used instead of Toxic or Knock Off to pick off weakened threats and to avoid unnecessary damage.

Set Details
========
Carracosta will need max HP and Defense to tank attacks from opponents as a wall while it sets up Stealth Rock. Leftovers are necessary for recovery, allowing Carracosta to regain HP every turn. A Relaxed nature works perfectly to strengthen Carracosta’s Defense as well. Instead of Leftovers, a Rocky Helmet can also be used to punish physical attackers, Flying-types, Pokemon with U-turn, orand Knock Off users.


Usage Tips
========
Carracosta’'s role is that of a hazard setter,; it's designed to set up hazards and tank hits for teammates as well. Set up Stealth Rock immediately, as getting Stealth Rock out immediately is crucial because it will help pressure the opponent and cause them to think about their decisions on what to switch in and out. Spam Scald as much as possible, as fishing for burns is great for residual damage and crippling physical attackers. Throw Toxic out on walls, threats, or switch -ins,; this will apply yet another layer of pressure as the opponent will have to deal with Stealth Rock but be concerned with the fact that they may be poisoned. If using Knock Off, use it to get rid of opponent's items. Also, use Stone Edge when Carracosta needs to damage a foe significantly.

Team Options
========
Offensive teammates such as Feraligatr and Magmortar work wonders for Carracosta, as they’'ll enjoy switching into it when a strong threat is out. Feraligatr and Magmortar can sweep easier with hazards and weakened foes as well thanks to Carracosta. Dragalge is a great partner for Carracosta because of its resistances to Grass-types, while Carracosta resists Ice-types. Spinblockers such as Spiritomb and Mismagius are useful to prevent the loss of hazards. Garbodor is also useful as it can utilize hazards as well and can deal with Grass-types easily.

Other Options
########
Although Carracosta is a physical sweeper, it can also become a special sweeper by utilizing Shell Smash, Hydro Pump, Ice Beam, and Hidden Power Grass. Shell Smash allows it to gain the necessary double Special Attack and Speed boost that it desires. Hydro Pump is one of Carracosta’s best Water STAB’ moves, as with 110 Base Power, it's extremely powerful. Ice Beam is useful to counter Grass-types such as Lilligant, damages Vileplume significantly, and also is useful against Pokemon such as Draglage as well. Hidden Power Grass is reliable against other Water-types such as Floatzel and Lanturn that resist Hydro Pump and Ice Beam. Solid Rock is necessary to reduce damage for Carracosta. A Life Orb allows Carracosta to significantly damage opponents. Alternatively, a Lum Berry can be used on this set in case of any dangerous status inflictions (toxic, paralysis, burn). Maximizesd EV’s in Special Attack and Speed with either a Timid nature (for extra Speed) or a Modest nature (for extra special damage output) can also work. Carracosta can also utilize Earthquake as well, for great damage and reliable accuracy. Carracosta can also utilize Swift Swim in Rain teams to double its speed on top of a Shell Smash making it 4x faster than its original Speed. Lastly, Carracosta can make great usage of a White Herb when setting up with Shell Smash, canceling out all negative stat drops while retaining the boosts.

Checks & Counters
########
**Electric-types**: Pokemon such as Rotom are soft checks against Carracosta, dealing dangerous amounts of damage with Volt Switch and Thunderbolt. Electivire is also a soft check as well because of its damage output. Lastly, Raichu is also a soft check as it can force Carracosta out or deal significant damage towards it. Lanturn is a great check due to Water Absorb, limiting Carracosta’s moves.

**Grass-types**: Grass-types such as Lilligant is are soft checks against Carracosta as it can get outsped and hit dangerously hard, but can bounce back effectively, forcinge Carracosta out. Sceptile is a good check as it outspeeds +2 Carracosta and takes an Aqua Jet relatively easily. Ludicolo is a great soft check because of its resistance to Water moves, and access to Giga Drain and Leech Seed. Ferroseed is a great counter against Carracosta. N; not only does Ferroseed resist Carracosta, but it also punishes it with Iron Barbs and Gyro Ball, making Carracosta’s +2 a glaring weakness.

**Fighting-types**: Gurdurr is a good check, because of its strong defenses. Gurdurr, can regain its HP by utilizing Drain Punch, making Carracosta its personal punching bag.

**Water-types**: Seismitoad is a strong counter against Carracosta because it is immune to Water attacks viadue to Water Absorb,; on top of that, it naturally resists Rock-types, making it more than capable of taking out Carracosta. Poliwrath, for reasons mentioned, can also take out Carracosta.

**Status Inflictions**: Status inflictions such as bBurn damage not only leaves Carracosta useless as an offensive attacker. P, while paralysis causes it to become a sitting duck prone to special Grass-types.

**Special Attackers**: Jynx is a good soft check due to Dry Skin,; however, it can be outsped if it is not careful and take a nasty Stone Edge. Equipped with a Choice Scarf, Jynx can outspeed Carracosta and take it out with Focus Blast or Psychic as well. Samurott is a good check as it is able to utilize Grass Knot against Carracosta, and take it out while it resists Waterfall and Aqua Jet,. Mesprit is a good check because of its natural bulk,: an Energy Ball from Mesprit can OHKO Carracosta,; with a Choice Scarf Mesprit, is extremely deadly as it easily outspeeds Carracosta. Dragalge is also a good check as it resists Water moves and can tank 2-3 hits from Carracosta. Dragalge likes to carry around Focus Blast as well. Carracosta doesn't like to switch in on Sspecial Aattackers as it has a hard time against them.

GP 1/2

 

[horyzhnz]

hng!

Overview
########
Carracosta's resilient Defense and deadly Attack is are a strong reasons as to why it's one of the deadliest Shell Smash sweepers in NU. On top of this, Carracosta has 3 three incredible abilities in Solid Rock, Sturdy, and Swift Swim, allowing Carracosta to tank strong hits, survive fatal blows, or double its Speed under rain. Carracosta is best known for its access to Shell Smash and Stealth Rock, allowing it to be a deadly sweeper or an entry hazard setter. Carracosta edges out its other offensive Shell Smash opponents users such as Barbaracle because of due to its access to Aqua Jet and slightly better physical bulk. In addition to this, Solid Rock is another reason why Carracosta is preferred over Barbaracle. However, Carracosta's low Speed leaves it prone to status and getting Taunted, neutralizing preventing the use of crucial moves such as Shell Smash and Stealth Rock. Carracosta cannot hide its glaringly low Special Defense either, as it is prone to weak against special attackers such as Mesprit, Mismagius, and Samurott.

Shell Smash
########
name: Shell Smash
move 1: Shell Smash
move 2: Waterfall
move 3: Stone Edge
move 4: Aqua Jet
ability: Solid Rock
item: Life Orb
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe
nature: Adamant

Moves
========
Shell Smash is Carracosta's ace in the hole, allowing its Attack, Special Attack, and Speed to spike up +2 two stages, making it extremely dangerous against foes and allows allowing it to become an strong offensive sweeper. Waterfall is a very reliable STAB move that's great for dealing huge damage,(RC) and has a 20% chance to flinch opponents as well. Waterfall can be great for dealing with Rhydon, Hariyama, and Sandslash. Stone Edge is very strong against opponents that resist Water-type moves, and is useful against Lilligant and Vileplume. Aqua Jet is used to pick off weakened targets without risking any unnecessary damage.

Set Details
========
Maximized Maximized Attack and Speed investment is used to allow Carracosta to sweep opponents with relative ease. Equipped with a Life Orb, Carracosta can yield maximum damage output at the cost of lowering its HP. However, Carracosta can also utilize a Lum Berry if any pesky status inflictions effects such as paralysis and or burn are inflicted while it's setting up. In addition to that, Carracosta can also capitalize on its strong defenses by using Weakness Policy; tanking a hit and allowing it to become a scary offensive presence. An Adamant nature with a Life Orb and Shell Smash can allow Carracosta to OHKO top threats such as Pyroar, Archeops, Magmortar, Rotom-Fan, and it can even OHKO non-defensive Spiritomb as well. Alternatively, a Jolly nature may be used to spike Carracosta's Speed, allowing it to outspeed priority users such as Liepard after a Shell Smash and nailing it with its own priority moves Aqua Jet. Lastly, Sturdy may also be used in conjunction with Weakness Policy instead of Solid Rock,(RC) to prevent Carracosta from fainting and allowing it to survive any hit while being setting up.

Usage Tips
========
Send out Carracosta mid- to late-game; it functions well as a mid- and late-game sweeper when threats such as special Grass-types are gone, entry hazards are taken care of,(AC) or and when there aren't any prominent Fighting-types around. Set up Shell Smash on the turn you're it's sent out, but be very weary of Thunder Wave users,(RC) and avoid setting up on them. Switch immediately if they are Thunder Wave users as they'll more often than not paralyze Carracosta, making it a sitting duck against opponents. Spamming Waterfall and Stone Edge works, but Waterfall is more reliable as it has more accuracy. Use Stone Edge only when it's needed, as relying on Stone Edge is very detrimental risky, considering its imperfect accuracy. Hit weakened foes with Aqua Jet; it'll save Carracosta HP and get rid of targets without suffering taking unnecessary damage.

Team Options
========
Teammates such as Garbodor are great for Carracosta. Unlike Ferroseed, Garbodor won’t be rendered isn't complete setup bait and can utilize Spikes / Toxic Spikes,(AC) while Garbodor also covers covering Grass-types fairly well. Dragalge is a strong partner as it forms a good core with Carracosta because of due to their nice defensive synergy synergy. Carracosta resists Ice-type moves, while Dragalge can tank special attacks for Carracosta to get it out of harm's way. Dragalge also has an easy time dealing with Grass-types. Electivire can be great as well, boosting its Speed from any Volt Switch users or Thunder Wave users. Offensive sweepers, such as Swords Dance Feraligatr and Lilligant, are great partners as Carracosta benefits from their typings. Typhlosion is also a great partner for dealing with Grass-types. Carracosta can shield it from strong Water-types while it removes special Grass-types. Choice Band Torterra is a great teammate as it not resists Ground-type moves, but also hits like a truck against deadly opponents that attempt to harm Carracosta. Mesprit also works as a great partner because of its bulkiness. Carracosta can switch to Mesprit in case a Water- or Grass-type come into play,(AC) and it Mesprit can proceed to neutralize both respectively with Energy Ball and Hidden Power Fire respectively.

Stealth Rock
########
name: Stealth Rock
move 1: Stealth Rock
move 2: Scald
move 3: Rock Slide
move 4: Toxic / Knock Off
ability: Solid Rock
item: Leftovers
evs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD
nature: Relaxed

Moves
========
Stealth Rock is a powerful entry hazard that causes residual damage and breaks Focus Sash users to opponents. Scald is not only great for coverage against Rock- (space) and Fire-types, but is also great for punishing opponents with a burn damage, lowering their HP and diminishing their Attack. Rock Slide is Carracosta's most reliable offensive move that can garner do the most damage against opponents. Alternatively, Stone Edge can be used instead of Rock Slide for even more damage, but it is less accurate. Toxic can be used to break down strong walls; because of Carracosta's strong Defense, it can tank a few attacks while an opponent gets damaged severely whittled down by poison damage. Coupled with Stealth Rock, Toxic can cause opponents to switch repeatedly, causing them to get damaged by entry hazards and status inflictions. Alternatively, Knock Off may also be used as a means for Carracosta to get rid of useful items that the opponent has, such as Eviolite, Assault Vest, Choice items, and Life Orb. Finally, Aqua Jet can be used instead of Toxic or Knock Off to pick off weakened threats and to avoid unnecessary damage.

Set Details
========
Carracosta will need maximum HP and Defense investment to tank attacks from opponents as a wall while it sets up Stealth Rock. Leftovers are necessary for recovery, allowing Carracosta to regain HP every turn. A Relaxed nature works perfectly to strengthen Carracosta's Defense as well. Instead of Leftovers, a Rocky Helmet can also be used to punish physical attackers, Flying-types, Pokemon with U-turn, and Knock Off users.

Usage Tips
========
Carracosta's role is that of an entry hazard setter; it's designed to set up hazards and tank hits for teammates as well. Set up Stealth Rock immediately, as getting Stealth Rock out up immediately is crucial because it will help pressure the opponent and cause them to think about their decisions on what to switch in and out. Spam Scald as much as possible, as fishing for burns is great for residual damage and crippling physical attackers. Throw Toxic out on walls, threats, or predicted switch-ins; this will apply yet another layer of pressure as the opponent will have to deal with Stealth Rock but and be concerned with the fact that they may their switch-in might get be poisoned. If using Knock Off, use it to get rid of opponent's items. Also,(RC) Use Stone Edge when Carracosta needs to damage a foe significantly.

Team Options
========
Offensive teammates such as Feraligatr and Magmortar work wonders for Carracosta, as they'll enjoy switching into it when a strong threat is out. Feraligatr and Magmortar can sweep easier with entry hazards and weakened foes as well thanks to Carracosta. Dragalge is a great partner for Carracosta because of its resistances to Grass-types, while Carracosta resists Ice-types moves for Dragalge. Spinblockers such as Spiritomb and Mismagius are useful to prevent the loss of hazards. Garbodor is also useful as it can utilize hazards as well and can deal with Grass-types easily.

Other Options
########
Although Carracosta is a physical sweeper, it can also become a special sweeper by utilizing Shell Smash, Hydro Pump, Ice Beam, and Hidden Power Grass. Shell Smash allows it to gain the necessary double +2 Special Attack and Speed boost that it desires. Hydro Pump is one of Carracosta's best Water-type STAB moves, as with 110 Base Power, it's extremely powerful. Ice Beam is useful to counter damage Grass-types such as Lilligant,(RC) damages and Vileplume significantly, and also is useful against Pokemon such as Draglage Dragalge as well. Hidden Power Grass is reliable against other Water-types such as Floatzel and Lanturn that resist Hydro Pump and Ice Beam. Solid Rock is necessary to reduce damage for Carracosta. A Life Orb allows Carracosta to significantly damage opponents. Alternatively, a Lum Berry can be used on this set in case of any dangerous status inflictions effects (toxic, paralysis, burn). Maximized EVs Maximum investment in Special Attack and Speed with either a Timid nature (for extra Speed) or a Modest nature (for extra special damage output) can also work. Carracosta can also utilize use Earthquake as well, for great damage and reliable accuracy. Carracosta can also utilize Swift Swim in on rain teams to double its Speed on top of a Shell Smash,(AC) making it 4x faster than its original Speed. Lastly, Carracosta can make great usage of a White Herb when setting up with Shell Smash, canceling out all negative stat drops while retaining the boosts.

Checks & Counters
########
**Electric-types**: Pokemon such as Rotom are soft checks against to Carracosta, dealing dangerous amounts of damage with Volt Switch and Thunderbolt. Electivire is also a soft check as well because of its damage output. Lastly, Raichu is also a soft check as it can force Carracosta out or deal significant damage towards it. Lanturn is a great check due to Water Absorb, limiting Carracosta's moves.

**Grass-types**: Grass-types such as Lilligant are soft checks against Carracosta as they can force Carracosta out. Sceptile is a good check as it outspeeds +2 Carracosta and takes an Aqua Jet relatively easily. Ludicolo is a great soft check because of due to its resistance to Water moves,(RC) and access to Giga Drain and Leech Seed. Ferroseed is a great counter against to Carracosta; not only does Ferroseed resist all of Carracosta's moves, but it also punishes it with Iron Barbs and Gyro Ball, making Carracosta's +2 Speed a glaring weakness disadvantage.

**Fighting-types**: Gurdurr is a good check because of its strong defenses. Gurdurr can regain its HP by utilizing with Drain Punch, making Carracosta its personal punching bag.

**Water-types**: Seismitoad is a strong counter against to Carracosta because it is immune to Water-type attacks due to Water Absorb,(AC) and on top of that, it naturally resists Rock-types moves, making it more than capable of taking out Carracosta. Poliwrath, for the same reasons mentioned, can also take out Carracosta with ease.

**Status Inflictions**: Burn leaves Carracosta useless as an offensive attacker, while paralysis causes makes it to become a sitting duck prone to special Grass-types.

**Special Attackers**: Jynx is a good soft check due to Dry Skin,(RC); however, it can be outsped if it is not careful and take a nasty Stone Edge. When equipped with a Choice Scarf, Jynx can outspeed Carracosta and take it out with Focus Blast or Psychic. Samurott is a good check as it is able to utilize Grass Knot against Carracosta,(RC) and take it out while it resists Waterfall and Aqua Jet. Mesprit is a good check because of its natural bulk: an Energy Ball from Mesprit can OHKO Carracosta; with a Choice Scarf Mesprit, Mesprit is extremely deadly as it easily outspeeds Carracosta. Dragalge is also a good check as it resists Water-type moves and can tank 2-3 hits from Carracosta. Dragalge likes to carry Focus Blast as well. Carracosta doesn't like to switch in on special attackers as it has a hard time against them.

GP 2/2

 

[CrushinDefeat]

I want to thank everyone as always, for all the support on the analyses. I was just speaking to hory the other day and was reflecting on my first analysis compared to now. Alots changed, Im more improved, but still more left to be desired. This analysis was one of my favorites because of the different amounts of thoughts and ideas. Its always great to see different ideas and ways to play. I want to thank the QC'ers for their work, the GP'ers for their work, and the community for their work as well. Not sure how many more I can do before I have to effectively leave as school starts, but I will continue to do what I do best, and pull through. Thank you all as always, it always means alot.

 

[Raseri]

CrushinDefeat there is something I'd like to see changed before I upload this:

. An Adamant nature with a Life Orb and Shell Smash can allow Carracosta to OHKO top threats such as Pyroar, Archeops, Magmortar, Rotom-Fan, and it can even OHKO non-defensive Spiritomb as well.

The way this is worded makes it seem like Carracosta needs to be Adamant to get those kills, when really the only one it helps beat is Spiritomb (who still loses to Jolly after SR). I dont have the time to look for examples of KOs adamant gets, but this needs to either be reworded to sound better, or better examples need to be used. After that, it'lle ready for upload

 

[Raseri]

CrushinDefeat will you be be able to fix this, or do you want me to do so?: