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Appendix:Metagame terminology: Difference between revisions

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===Standard rules===
===Standard rules===
It refers to the rules used in [[Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection|Wi-Fi]] battles by most competitive battlers. The rules include: No {{DL|Tier|Ubers}}, no [[cheating|hacks]], no [[One-hit knockout moves|OHKO moves]], [[#Sleep Clause|Sleep Clause]], [[#Evasion Clause|Evasion Clause]] and [[#Species Clause|Species Clause]].
Refer to a set of widely employed rules for multiplayer battles. Includes species, sleep, and evasion clauses, as well as bans on [[cheating|hacks]], [[one-hit knockout moves]], and Pokémon in the (abided) Uber [[tier]],  


===Type coverage===
===Type coverage===
Type coverage refers to combinations of attacks that are unresisted. Common combinations for coverage are "[[#BoltBeam|BoltBeam]]" (only resisted by a few Pokémon) which is {{m|Thunderbolt}} and {{m|Ice Beam}}, or any combination of {{type|Electric}} and {{type|Ice}} attacks. {{type|Ghost}}, {{type|Dark}}, {{type|Dragon}} and {{type|Fighting}} attacks have perfect coverage, due to the fact that Ghost- and Dragon-type moves together are all resisted by only Dark- and Steel-types (Dark-types resisting Ghost and Steel-types resisting both). Both of these types are defensively weak to Fighting-type moves, meaning at best, a dual-typed Steel or Dark Pokémon will be neutral to Fighting (at worst, 4× weak). Thus, all currently known Pokémon are at least neutral to these combinations.
Refers to how the [[type]]s of damage-dealing moves known by a Pokémon match up against all 17 types and their many combinations in terms of effectiveness.


==Pokémon sets==
==Pokémon sets==
Refer to Pokémon not only by species, but also by their [[stat]]s, [[move]]s, [[Ability]] and [[held item]].
===Common roles===
===Common roles===
Within competitive battling there are a number of categories that are used to describe a Pokémon's role within a team or battle:
Within competitive battling there are a number of categories that are used to describe the intended role of a Pokémon set:


====Annoyer====
====Annoyer====
A Pokémon used with the sole purpose of annoying the opponent and making it difficult for them to use their preferred strategy, the aim of which is to force an error. Another term used to describe a similar technique is a [[#Paraflincher|Paraflincher]]. Such Pokémon commonly have high Speed stats and/or high defensive stats, but low Attack stats: it is not uncommon for Annoyers to have no direct attack moves at all in their movesets.
Refers to a Pokémon set that is intended to prevent the opponent from progressing with their strategy, commonly through the use of [[status move]]s and [[status ailment]]s.


Popular movesets for Annoyers include {{m|Confuse Ray}}, {{m|Glare}} and {{m|Hypnosis}}, and a common item to use is King's Rock, which increases the probability that an attack will cause the opponent to flinch. Popular choices of Annoyers are {{p|Dunsparce}}, {{p|Jirachi}} (with {{a|Serene Grace}}, {{m|Iron Head}}, {{m|Zen Headbutt}} and {{m|Thunder Wave}}), {{p|Togekiss}} (with {{a|Serene Grace}}, {{m|Air Slash}} and {{m|Thunder Wave}}) and {{p|Whimsicott}} (with {{a|Prankster}}, {{m|Leech Seed}}, {{m|Taunt}}, {{m|Toxic}} and {{m|Substitute}}).
====Anti-lead====
It should be noted that since Generation {{Gen|III}}, the popularity of Annoyers has declined, because of the heavy reliance on chance ([[#Hax|Hax]]).
Refers to a Pokémon set that is sent out first, intended to foil the Pokémon sets that are commonly sent out first.


====Anti-Lead====
====Attack lead====
A Pokémon specially chosen to counter common [[#Leads|Leads]], an ''Anti-Lead'' may be carrying a [[Choice Scarf]] to outspeed the expected lead and then use a super-effective attack. An example of a common Anti-Lead is {{p|Weavile}}: it has a naturally high base Speed stat of 125, it can use {{m|Taunt}} to prevent entry hazards and it can also use a combination of {{DL|In-battle effect item|Focus Sash}} and {{m|Counter}} to KO opposing leads. {{p|Gengar}} is another common example, holding a Focus Sash with {{m|Counter}}, {{m|Destiny Bond}}, and {{m|Hypnosis}}. {{p|Forretress}} can also be considered an Anti-Lead, as it commonly carries {{m|Gyro Ball}} which is super-effective on popular leads such as Weavile and {{p|Aerodactyl}}. It can also deal with hazards set up by {{p|Aerodactyl}} with {{m|Rapid Spin}}, making it an effective [[#Spinner|Spinner]].
Refers to a Pokémon set that is sent out first, intended to foil the Pokémon sets that are commonly sent out first, through the use of damage-dealing [[move]]s supported by a high {{DL|Stats|Attack}} or {{DL|Stats|Special Attack}} stat.
 
====Aromatherapist====
''See [[#Cleric|Cleric]].''
 
====Attack Lead====
A Pokémon in the primary position in the team, an ''Attack Lead'' will commonly have high attacking and/or Speed stats. The aim is to inflict maximum damage on the enemy team before it can set up with stat boosts, weather effects and [[#Entry Hazards|entry hazards]].


====Baton Passer====
====Baton Passer====
A Pokémon with {{m|Baton Pass}} and at least one stat-boosting move such as {{m|Swords Dance}} or {{m|Agility}}. The ''Baton Passer'' raises one or more of its stats, then uses Baton Pass to hand the effects to another Pokémon in the party. A good example of a Baton Passer is {{p|Ninjask}}, whose Ability {{a|Speed Boost}} constantly increases its Speed stat. A Baton Passer often abuses the move {{m|Protect}} and may use Swords Dance and/or Substitute as well. Ninjask commonly carries Substitute and a [[Liechi Berry]] so that it can Baton Pass four Speed Boosts, a Leichi boost, and possibly a few Swords Dance boosts or a Substitute. The common counter to a Baton Passer is a [[#Hazer|Hazer]] or [[#Phazer|Phazer]], which eliminate stat boosts, thereby rendering the tactic useless. A Baton Passer could potentially counter Phazers by using {{m|Ingrain}}; however, only {{p|Smeargle}} can learn both of these moves through {{m|Sketch}}. Phazers that utilize {{m|Roar}} or {{m|Whirlwind}} can be evaded by Baton Passing to a Pokémon with {{a|Soundproof}}; however, they are also oblivious to the effects of moves such as {{m|Heal Bell}} and {{m|Perish Song}}. Multiple Baton Passers in one team can be used to create a [[#Baton Pass Chain|Baton Pass Chain]].
Refers to a Pokémon set that is intended to use the move {{m|Baton Pass}} in order to pass on positive [[stat]] changes and/or {{DL|Status ailment|volatile battle status}}es, which it may or may not have contributed to itself.


====BoltBeam====
====BoltBeam====
A combination of {{m|Thunderbolt}} and {{m|Ice Beam}} on the same set that is resisted only by {{p|Magnezone}}, {{a|Volt Absorb}} {{p|Lanturn}}, {{p|Shedinja}}, [[Form differences#Rotom|Frost and Heat]] {{p|Rotom}}, {{p|Seaking}} with {{a|Lightningrod}} and {{p|Mamoswine}} with {{a|Thick Fat}}. May also be used for any combination of {{t|Electric}}- and {{type|Ice}} moves, such as {{m|Thunderbolt}} and HP Ice.
Refers to the [[move]]s {{m|Thunderbolt}} and {{m|Ice Beam}} being present in a Pokémon set. "Pseudo BoltBeam" refers to a damage-dealing {{type|Electric}} move and a damage-dealing {{type|Ice}} move being present in a Pokémon set, when these aren't the exact combination of Thunderbolt and Ice Beam. BoltBeam is amply featured in the games.
 
[[Misty]] has a {{p|Starmie}} which knows Thunderbolt and Ice Beam in her {{2v2|HeartGold|SoulSilver}} [[rematch]] team, and in her [[Pokémon World Tournament]] [[Kanto Leaders Tournament]], [[Type Expert Tournament]], [[World Leaders Tournament]], and [[Gathered! Gym Leader! Tournament]] teams as her lead Pokémon. Also in her Kanto Leaders Tournament team, her {{p|Lapras}} knows both Thunderbolt and Ice Beam.


====Bulky====
====Bulky====
A Pokémon that has high {{stat|HP}}, {{stat|Defense}}, or {{stat|Special Defense}} [[stat]]s. {{type|Water}} Pokémon are known for often being Bulky, such as {{p|Vaporeon}}, {{p|Swampert}}, and {{p|Jellicent}}.
Refers to a Pokémon set that, due to its combination of {{stat|HP}} and {{stat|Defense}} and/or {{stat|Special Defense}}, takes a comparatively low percentage of damage from [[physical move]]s or [[special move]]s or both.


====Choice User====
====Choice user====
This subsection refers to Pokémon that have a choice item—a group of hold items that affect in-battle move power or speed with the cost of being able to only use one move until removed from the field.
Refers to a Pokémon set [[held item|holding]] the item {{DL|In-battle effect item|Choice Band}}, {{DL|In-battle effect item|Choice Scarf}}, or {{DL|In-battle effect item|Choice Specs}}.
=====Choice Bander=====
=====Choice Bander=====
A Pokémon with a moveset that usually contains four powerful physical moves and wears the hold item {{DL|In-battle effect item|Choice Band}}. A Choice Bander usually serves either as a lead or a finisher, due to the sheer power it can dish out. Popular Choice Banders include {{p|Heracross}} and {{p|Terrakion}}.
Refers to a Pokémon set [[held item|holding]] the item {{DL|In-battle effect item|Choice Band}}.


=====Scarf Wearer=====
=====Scarf wearer=====
A Pokémon with a moveset that usually contains four powerful moves and wears the hold item [[Choice Scarf]]. A Scarf Wearer is usually a very powerful Pokémon with subpar speed compared to faster counter Pokémon that might outfight it, or is used on [[#Revenge Killer|Revenge Killers]]. Popular Scarf Wearers include {{p|Heracross}} and {{p|Keldeo}}.
Refers to a Pokémon set [[held item|holding]] the item {{DL|In-battle effect item|Choice Scarf}}.


=====Specs Wearer=====
=====Specs wearer=====
A Pokémon with a moveset that usually contains four powerful special moves and wears the hold item {{DL|In-battle effect item|Choice Specs}}. Like a Choice Bander, a Specs Wearer will often lead off with powerful attacks or act as a finisher. Popular Specs Wearers include {{p|Hydreigon}} and {{p|Chandelure}}.
Refers to a Pokémon set [[held item|holding]] the item {{DL|In-battle effect item|Choice Scarf}}.


====Cleric====
====Cleric====
As the name suggests, a ''cleric'' is a Pokémon that utilizes {{m|Aromatherapy}} or {{m|Heal Bell}} to cure itself and its team members. Clerics are often partnered with {{m|Rest}} users, and are also an effective way to support an exclusively offensive Pokémon with little or no defensive capabilites. Since Aromatherapy only appears in the movesets of a number of {{type|Grass}} Pokémon and the {{p|Blissey}} and {{p|Clefable}} families, these three Pokémon are the most common clerics. Heal Bell, meanwhile, does not affect Pokémon with the Ability {{a|Soundproof}}.
Refers to a Pokémon set that is intended to restore the {{stat|HP}} and/or cure the [[status ailment]]s of its allies, through the use of [[status move]]s like {{m|Wish}} and {{m|Aromatherapy}}.


====Counter====
====Counter====
A Pokémon that is able to successfully switch into an opposing Pokémon (and is subsequently able to defeat it) is commonly known as that Pokémon's counter.  For example, {{p|Gliscor}} is a counter to {{p|Heracross}}, since it resists Heracross's strongest attacks ({{m|Megahorn}} and {{m|Close Combat}}) and can defeat it easily with a {{type|Flying}} attack, such as {{m|Aerial Ace}}. Counters are one of the most important mechanics to consider when team-building, since the inclusion of a Pokémon-specific counter can severely affect that Pokémon's effectiveness.
Refers to a Pokémon set that has an advantage over another Pokémon set to the point where it can take a turn to switch in and subsequently foil it.


====DDer====
====DDer====
Any Pokémon that makes use of {{m|Dragon Dance}}. Usually, a DDer is a fast physical [[#Sweeper|Sweeper]] such as {{p|Gyarados}}, {{p|Kingdra}}, {{p|Salamence}}. Other DDers tend to have a high {{stat|Attack}} stat and are [[#Bulky|bulky]] enough to take one or two hits, such as {{p|Dragonite}} and {{p|Haxorus}}.
Refers to a Pokémon set that includes the move {{m|Dragon Dance}}.


====Decoy====
====Decoy====
A Decoy or Death Fodder is any Pokémon that is 'sacrificed' against a strong opponent. The aim is to weaken the opponent's Pokémon before the sacrificial Pokémon is knocked out, then switch to a stronger Pokémon, preferably one whose moveset has an advantage over the opponent (see [[#Revenge Killer|Revenge Killer]]). A Decoy is often used as a means of switching to a more suitable Pokémon without damaging it (see also: [[#Pivot|Pivot]]). A decoy can also be used to take the effect of abilities that lower stats, such as {{a|Intimidate}}.
Refers to a Pokémon that is knocked out as part of the course of action chosen by its Trainer in the given battle situation.


====Dual screener====
====Dual screener====
A Pokémon with the combination of {{m|Light Screen}} and {{m|Reflect}} in its moveset, a ''Dual Screener'' is used primarily to improve the team's defenses. An effective counter to this method is to use the move {{m|Brick Break}}.  
Refers to a Pokémon set that includes the moves {{m|Light Screen}} and {{m|Reflect}}.


====Endureversal====
====Endureversal====
A moveset designed to {{m|Endure}} down to one HP, then {{m|Reversal}} or {{m|Flail}} for massive damage, since Reversal and Flail have 200 base power at 1%-4% HP. The item held is often a [[Salac Berry]] or a [[Liechi Berry]], tying in with the previous strategy. Popular Endureversal include {{p|Feraligatr}}, {{p|Heracross}} and {{p|Dugtrio}}. This strategy is similar to the [[F.E.A.R]] strategy.
Refers to a Pokémon set that includes the moves {{m|Endure}} and {{m|Reversal}} or {{m|Flail}}. May be assisted through the use of a {{DL|In-battle effect item|Focus Sash}}, [[Salac Berry]], or [[Liechi Berry]]. It is amply featued in the games. There are many similar strategies, including [[Appendix:F.E.A.R.|F.E.A.R.]]
 
{{tc|Linebacker}} Bob found in the [[Big Stadium and Small Court|Big Stadium]] in {{2v2|Black|White}} has a {{p|Throh}} and a {{p|Hariyama}} which know Endure and Reversal.


====F.E.A.R.====
====F.E.A.R.====
{{main|Appendix:F.E.A.R.}}
{{main|Appendix:F.E.A.R.}}
A strategy involving a low-level Pokémon (such as {{p|Rattata}}) holding a {{DL|In-battle effect item|Focus Sash}} with the moves {{m|Endeavor}} and a damaging move with a priority greater than 0. It aims to catch the opponent off-guard when he or she sees the low-level Pokémon and attacks. The Focus Sash will activate, and the F.E.A.R. Pokémon, which will have 1 HP, will use Endeavor to attack, lowering the opponent's HP to 1. Then the F.E.A.R. Pokémon will use a priority move to finish off the opponent. Variations include using {{a|Sturdy}}{{tt|*|Generation V only}} instead of a Focus Sash.
Refers to a Pokémon set with a comparatively low {{stat|HP}} stat, holding a {{DL|In-battle effect item|Focus Sash}}, with the move {{m|Endeavor}} and a damage-dealing move with increased [[priority]]. Some variations use the [[Ability]] {{a|Sturdy}} instead of Focus Sash.


====Glass Cannon====
====Glass cannon====
A Pokémon that has extremely high offensive stats, which are contrasted with its poor defensive stats and often insufficient Speed (such as {{p|Sharpedo}} and {{p|Rampardos}}). A {{DL|In-battle effect item|Choice Scarf}} is often employed on such Pokémon to make up for their lack of sufficient Speed, but other {{DL|In-battle effect item|Choice items}} may also be used.
Refers to a Pokémon set with comparatively high {{stat|Attack}} and/or {{stat|Special Attack}} that, due to its combination of {{stat|HP}} and {{stat|Defense}}/{{stat|Special Defense}}, takes a comparatively high percentage of damage from damage-dealing moves.  


====Hazer====
====Hazer====
A Pokémon that has a moveset with {{m|Haze}} in it, a ''hazer'' is used to eliminate any stat boosts that the opponent has used. Much like a [[#Spiker|Spiker]], it can have any combination of moves; the only defining point is that it have the move Haze. Fast Pokémon and those with high defenses, such as {{p|Altaria}} and {{p|Articuno}}, make good Hazers.
Refers to a Pokémon set that includes the move {{m|Haze}}.


====Lead====
====Lead====
The starting Pokémon of a team. In general, these Pokémon do at least one of two things: set up hazards or prevent the opponent from setting up hazards. Examples of Pokémon that do both are {{p|Aerodactyl}} (with {{m|Taunt}} and {{m|Stealth Rock}}), {{p|Forretress}} (with {{m|Rapid Spin}}, {{m|Spikes}}, {{m|Stealth Rock}} and {{m|Toxic Spikes}}) and {{p|Tentacruel}} (with {{m|Rapid Spin}} and {{m|Toxic Spikes}}). An example of Pokémon that only set up hazards is {{p|Heatran}} (with {{m|Stealth Rock}}). An example of a lead that only prevents hazards is {{p|Weavile}} (with {{m|Taunt}}).
Refers to a Pokémon set that is sent out first, or one of the Pokémon sets that is commonly sent out first.


====Paraflincher====
====Paraflincher====
A paraflincher is Pokémon with a moveset with a paralysis-inducing move to negate Speed, and a [[List of moves that cause flinching|flinch move]] such as  {{m|Bite}}, {{m|Headbutt}}, {{m|Rock Slide}}, or {{m|Extrasensory}}, or a Pokémon holding a [[King's Rock]]. It relies on chance to repeatedly flinch the foe until it faints. As an added bonus, the paralysis will kick in 25% of the time, giving the foe only a 52.5% chance to use their attack in the event a 30% flinch-chance attack is used. {{p|Dunsparce}} was the most feared flinchaxor in [[Generation III]], because its {{a|Serene Grace}} increases the flinch chance to 60% until the appearance of {{p|Togekiss}} in [[Generation IV]]. {{p|Jirachi}} can also do this with {{m|Zen Headbutt}} or {{m|Iron Head}}, Iron Head only available through a [[move tutor]].
Refers to a Pokémon set that is capable of inducing {{status|paralysis}} and causing [[List of moves that cause flinching|flinching]].


====Pseudo-passer====
====Pseudo-passer====

Revision as of 19:45, 21 February 2013

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Please feel free to edit this article to add missing information and complete it.

The Pokémon metagame has a wide range of fanmade terminology for various aspects of the games. These are colloquial terms originating from unofficial sources, and are not found within the games themselves.

General terms

Baton Pass chain

Refers to continuous use of the move Baton Pass and the accumulated stat changes.

Choice lock

Refers to how the held items Choice Band, Choice Scarf, and Choice Specs limit a Pokémon to use only one of its moves.

Clause

Clauses refer to the various rules that are applied to battles, such as restrictions on which Pokémon, moves, and items may be used. Many of these rules are found in the games, applied in settings such as battle facilities and multiplayer features.

Evasion clause

Refers to a ban on moves that raise evasion (such as Double Team). Does not necessarily put a ban on moves that reduce accuracy (such as Sand-Attack) or moves/Abilities that merely have a possibility of raising evasion (such as Acupressure/Moody).

Freeze clause

Refers to technical measures taken in order to prevent multiple Pokémon on the same team from being frozen solid at the same time. Found in games like Pokémon Stadium and battle simulators like Pokémon Online.

Item clause

Refers to a ban on multiple Pokémon of the same team holding the same item. Found in battle facilities and officially organized tournaments, but widely ignored in many large communities.

Level clause

Refers to measures taken to ensure that all Pokémon used by both Trainers are close to or at the same level—usually 50 or 100. Found in battle facilities and Wi-Fi features.

Sleep clause

Refers to a ban on the usage of sleep-inducing moves when one of the opponent's Pokémon has already been put to sleep by one of the user's Pokémon. As such, the move Rest and the Ability Effect Spore do not violate this ban. Found in Pokémon Battle Revolution.

Hax

Refers to outcomes that are perceived as unlikely to the point of being unfair. Common targets are critical hits, moves missing, the success of secondary effects, and full paralysis. Can also refer to reliance on uncertain outcomes, such as the use of one-hit knockout moves or held items like Quick Claw, Focus Band, or BrightPowder. Hax is, somewhat paradoxically, often associated with the Ability Serene Grace.

HP <type>

Refers to the move Hidden Power and its type (e.g. HP Ice, HP Fire).

IV battle

Refers to a battle held solely for the purpose of observing the stats of one or more Pokémon as they appear when set to a higher level for the duration of the battle, thus making it easier to estimate the Pokémon's individual values.

Mono team

Refers to a team with homogeneity in a certain area such as type, color, or generation.

Pinch Berry

Refers to the Liechi, Ganlon, Salac, Petaya, Apicot, Lansat, and Starf Berries, which all raise a stat when the holding Pokémon's HP drops below ¼ (referred to as being in a pinch in the games). The Micle and Custap Berries may also be considered Pinch Berries.

RNG

Main article: Pseudorandom number generation in Pokémon

Refers to the Random Number Generator, or rather the practice of manipulating it through the use of fan-made software, in order to obtain Shiny Pokémon or Pokémon with specific individual values—both endeavors which would otherwise leave a lot up to chance.

Spam

Refers to repeated use of the same move.

Standard rules

Refer to a set of widely employed rules for multiplayer battles. Includes species, sleep, and evasion clauses, as well as bans on hacks, one-hit knockout moves, and Pokémon in the (abided) Uber tier,

Type coverage

Refers to how the types of damage-dealing moves known by a Pokémon match up against all 17 types and their many combinations in terms of effectiveness.

Pokémon sets

Refer to Pokémon not only by species, but also by their stats, moves, Ability and held item.

Common roles

Within competitive battling there are a number of categories that are used to describe the intended role of a Pokémon set:

Annoyer

Refers to a Pokémon set that is intended to prevent the opponent from progressing with their strategy, commonly through the use of status moves and status ailments.

Anti-lead

Refers to a Pokémon set that is sent out first, intended to foil the Pokémon sets that are commonly sent out first.

Attack lead

Refers to a Pokémon set that is sent out first, intended to foil the Pokémon sets that are commonly sent out first, through the use of damage-dealing moves supported by a high Attack or Special Attack stat.

Baton Passer

Refers to a Pokémon set that is intended to use the move Baton Pass in order to pass on positive stat changes and/or volatile battle statuses, which it may or may not have contributed to itself.

BoltBeam

Refers to the moves Thunderbolt and Ice Beam being present in a Pokémon set. "Pseudo BoltBeam" refers to a damage-dealing Electric-type move and a damage-dealing Ice-type move being present in a Pokémon set, when these aren't the exact combination of Thunderbolt and Ice Beam. BoltBeam is amply featured in the games.

Bulky

Refers to a Pokémon set that, due to its combination of HP and Defense and/or Special Defense, takes a comparatively low percentage of damage from physical moves or special moves or both.

Choice user

Refers to a Pokémon set holding the item Choice Band, Choice Scarf, or Choice Specs.

Choice Bander

Refers to a Pokémon set holding the item Choice Band.

Scarf wearer

Refers to a Pokémon set holding the item Choice Scarf.

Specs wearer

Refers to a Pokémon set holding the item Choice Scarf.

Cleric

Refers to a Pokémon set that is intended to restore the HP and/or cure the status ailments of its allies, through the use of status moves like Wish and Aromatherapy.

Counter

Refers to a Pokémon set that has an advantage over another Pokémon set to the point where it can take a turn to switch in and subsequently foil it.

DDer

Refers to a Pokémon set that includes the move Dragon Dance.

Decoy

Refers to a Pokémon that is knocked out as part of the course of action chosen by its Trainer in the given battle situation.

Dual screener

Refers to a Pokémon set that includes the moves Light Screen and Reflect.

Endureversal

Refers to a Pokémon set that includes the moves Endure and Reversal or Flail. May be assisted through the use of a Focus Sash, Salac Berry, or Liechi Berry. It is amply featued in the games. There are many similar strategies, including F.E.A.R.

F.E.A.R.

Main article: Appendix:F.E.A.R.

Refers to a Pokémon set with a comparatively low HP stat, holding a Focus Sash, with the move Endeavor and a damage-dealing move with increased priority. Some variations use the Ability Sturdy instead of Focus Sash.

Glass cannon

Refers to a Pokémon set with comparatively high Attack and/or Special Attack that, due to its combination of HP and Defense/Special Defense, takes a comparatively high percentage of damage from damage-dealing moves.

Hazer

Refers to a Pokémon set that includes the move Haze.

Lead

Refers to a Pokémon set that is sent out first, or one of the Pokémon sets that is commonly sent out first.

Paraflincher

Refers to a Pokémon set that is capable of inducing paralysis and causing flinching.

Pseudo-passer

A moveset with Wish, Safeguard, Light Screen and/or Reflect in it. Reflect and Light Screen are countered by Brick Break.

RestoChesto

A Pokémon that knows Rest holding a Chesto Berry in order to immediately wake up after healing. Usually seen on Tanks and Walls.

Sashed

A Pokémon that is holding a Focus Sash, usually a very frail one such as Dugtrio or Weavile, so it can survive a hit.

Shuffler

A shuffler is a Pokémon with Whirlwind, Roar, Dragon Tail, or Circle Throw that forces the opponent's Pokémon to switch. They are often used as annoyers. Usually used as a pseudo-hazer or in combination with entry hazards or status problems, or a combination of them.

Phazer

A phazer, or pseudo-hazer, is moveset with either Whirlwind or Roar, which is intended to force a stat-boosted Pokémon to switch out, thus removing its stat changes. A moveset with moves such as Yawn, Leech Seed, Perish Song or Charm can also be considered a Phazer; the effects of these moves are such that any sensible opponent will be forced switch out their Pokémon.

Status shuffler

A status shuffler has a moveset with either Roar or Whirlwind and Toxic as well as Thunder Wave or Will-O-Wisp. Works by inflicting a status problem, then shuffling and repeating. They are usaully named based on the status problem they use: Parashufflers inflict paralysis, Pyroshufflers inflict burn, Toxishufflers inflict bad poison. Often used in tandem with a Spiker for best results. Countered by a Cleric, or simply by attacking each time they try to PHaze.

Spinner

A spinner or Rapid Spinner is user of the move Rapid Spin, with the role of removing entry hazards, thereby leaving the field clear for a sweeper. Common spinners are Starmie and Tentacruel. The method for countering this technique is by having a Ghost-type Pokémon in play: Rapid Spin, as a Normal-type move, will have no effect in this case. Such a Pokémon is known as a spinblocker.

Spiker

A moveset that includes the move Spikes. Since that is the only requirement, there are many variations to Spiker movesets. Effective ones utilize shuffling moves, Toxic Spikes, Stealth Rock, and/or Rapid Spin.

Staller

Much like the tank, this moveset lives to build up passive damage (such as Poison, Burn, Leech Seed, and weather conditions) while stalling with Protect, recovery moves or (rarely) with Fly, Dive or Dig. Toxic is most commonly used due to its increasing amount of damage caused. Some counters include a Cleric, the move Taunt and Clefable (due to the ability Magic Guard).

RestTalker

A RestTalker, also known as a Sleep Talker or STalker, is a Pokémon with a moveset with Rest and Sleep Talk. It is used to maintain a Pokémon's health with Rest (usually with good defenses as well), but allow it to attack in the meantime with Sleep Talk. It's not a perfect strategy, as there is the chance Sleep Talk will call Rest again, but it works often enough to see use. Milotic is an excellent example of a RestTalker due to Marvel Scale. Though Milotic also has Recover, a RestTalker set is sometimes used because of its Ability Marvel Scale, although generally moves like Recover are used.

Revenge killer

Pokémon that can switch in after an opponent has knocked out another Pokémon (with the intent of swiftly knocking out the opponent), revenge killers are often equipped with priority moves or a Choice Scarf. For example, Weavile makes an effective revenge killer due to its high Attack stat and access to Ice Shard. Sometimes employed after 'sacrificing' a decoy. Retaliate's effect makes it an excellent Revenge move.

Seeder

Seeders are Pokémon that use Leech Seed to force switches, drain HP to heal themselves, or wear down defensive Pokémon. They are often used with Substitute known as Subseeders. Subseeders are often fast Pokémon that repeatedly use substitute while the opponent is afflicted with leech seed. The healing of leech seed allows them to gain back the health they lost from substitute while the opponent's health is slowly worn down. Examples of Subseeders are Whimsicott and Sceptile.

Spinblocker

A Ghost-type Pokémon that is used in order to stop the foe from using Rapid Spin (which doesn't affect Ghost-type Pokémon) to remove entry hazards from its side of the field. Notable spinblockers are Froslass and Giratina.

Sponge

See wall.

Subpasser

A moveset with Substitute and Baton Pass. Although any Pokémon that can learn Baton Pass can pass substitutes, Pokémon with high HP are preferred so that the Substitute passed will also have a high HP. Subpassing is beneficial as it allows for a Pokémon to have a substitute with a much higher HP than it could make itself. If such a substitute is passed to a wall or tank, the opponent will have a hard time breaking the substitute right away, allowing the target to reap the benefits of the Substitute, such as immunity to status effects. Subpasses can also pass defensive boosts to make the substitutes even harder to break, but then that only leaves them one move for attacking, making them very vulnerable to Taunt.

Subpuncher

A moveset with Substitute and Focus Punch to avoid the flinch chance from Focus Punch. Works best with slower Pokémon as the Substitute may end up being broken the turn it's made if the subpuncher goes first. Slightly harder to use in Double Battles where the two Pokémon could gang up on the Subpuncher to break the Substitute and hit the Pokémon. Countered by Thick Club Marowak whose Bonemerang usually does enough damage to break the Substitute on the first hit, allowing the second hit to attack the subpuncher directly. It's also is countered by Technician Ambipom who might break the Substitute on the first hit of Double Hit.

Chuck has a Breloom which knows Substitute and Focus Punch in his HeartGold and SoulSilver rematch team.

Sunnybeamer

A moveset with Sunny Day and SolarBeam to avoid the one turn charge up from SolarBeam. Often used on Pokémon with the Chlorophyll Ability, Fire-type Pokémon, or Pokémon with the moves Synthesis, Morning Sun, or Moonlight, for increased HP recovery.

Sweeper

A Pokémon included with the object of quickly knocking out, or "sweeping," an opponent's team. Sweepers specialize in primarily direct attacks, often with stat-boosting moves. Sweepers are characterized by high Speed and/or offensive stats, while often having poor defensive stats and HP. There are three types of sweeper: physical, special and mixed. Physical sweepers use physical moves, special sweepers use special moves, and mixed sweepers use both. Mixed sweepers can also be used as wall breakers, which are Pokémon whose attacks are specifically chosen to take down common walls, like Close Combat for Blissey or Fire Blast for Skarmory. Common sweeper counters are bulky Pokémon with large defensive stats and priority moves.

Tank

A Pokémon that can take hits and still fight back. Similar to a wall in that it is often very difficult to defeat, a tank can still threaten the opponent offensively. Some common tanks are Bronzong, Musharna and Ferrothorn.

Thunderdancer

A moveset with Rain Dance and Thunder to give Thunder 100% accuracy. Pokémon with the Volt Absorb or Water Absorb Ability are preferred, due to their immunity to enemy Surfs and Thunders.

Trapper

A Pokémon designed to trap a Pokémon for one reason or another. Moves such as Mean Look and Spider Web are standard trapping moves but moves such as Wrap and Fire Spin are also used sometimes. May be used in tandem with Toxic or Curse (Ghost version) to sap the opponent's health or Perish Song for a guaranteed knockout. Certain Abilities, such as Shadow Tag, Magnet Pull and Arena Trap, trap automatically. The general idea is to make both switching out and staying in an undesirable option for the opponent.

Wall

A Pokémon with a very high defensive stat, a wall is used to block attacks of that kind (for example, a physical wall would block physical attacks). A good example would be Skarmory who is considered as a physical wall. Almost any Pokémon with a high enough Defense or Special Defense stat can be used as a wall.

Specific sets

Sets that are only seen on one to several Pokémon or are best known on a single Pokémon.

Atmacune

A Suicune moveset from Generation II, which has Curse, Rest, Return and Roar. Not usable in Generation III or IV because Curse is no longer available in Suicune's movelist due to losing TM status.

Bellyzard

A moveset created specifically for the Charizard evolution family. The moveset contains Belly Drum, Substitute, Fire Punch or Flare Blitz and any other move. The held item is usually a Salac Berry. Belly Drum followed by Substitute maximizes the Attack stat and lowers HP enough to activate Blaze and the Salac Berry as long as Charizard's HP is divisible by 4. The power of Charizard's Fire-type moves is increased, Attack is maximized and Speed is raised enough to possibly attack first. This results in an incredibly powerful physical Fire-type attack. Stealth Rock is a reliable way to counter this strategy.

Breloomurder

Works with a Breloom that has Spore, Focus Punch, Substitute, and Facade, the Poison Heal Ability, while holding a Toxic Orb. After using Spore, Breloom is free to repeatedly charge and use a STAB Focus Punch on the sleeping foe. Furthermore, due to the poison induced by the held Toxic Orb, Facade's power is drastically increased, and Breloom's Ability heals it every turn. Seed Bomb is sometimes used instead of Substitute to allow the user to hit Ghost-type Pokémon.

CalmCune

A Suicune with Calm Mind. Rest is often also used. A very powerful and over-used Pokémon due to Suicune's two weaknesses being special types prior to the physical/special split, and as a result its effectiveness has been reduced with Generation IV's Attack/Special split. Some counters include a hazer or phazer, a strong physical Electric- or Grass-type attack and the move Encore.

Celetran

A combination of Celebi and Heatran used in the same team, this works because Celebi covers all of Heatran's weaknesses and Heatran covers all of Celebi's weaknesses. Both of these Pokémon have mixed wall stats, they can take on both physical and special hits.

There are other combinations like this, such as Latias or Latios and a Steel-type (a combination that resists every type in the game) though these combinations are not as well known.

ChainChomp

Garchomp that is designed as a mixed sweeper with the moves Draco Meteor and Fire Blast. The intention of this Pokémon is catching the opponent off guard as they send in a standard Physical wall by taking advantage of most physical walls lacking a good Special Defense stat. A variation of this set can also be used with Salamence.

Crocune

A Suicune with the moves Rest, Sleep Talk, Calm Mind and Surf. The Cro- prefix is also used for other Pokémon that work in a similar way, like Crophy and Crotomb.

Curselax

A moveset that uses Curse and Rest on an already slow Pokémon to ignore the Speed drop. Although Snorlax is the most common user (hence the name), it can also appear on other Pokémon (provided they aren't of the Ghost-type). Especially useful in a team using Trick Room as the Speed drops become Speed boosts instead.

DrizzleToed and DroughtTales

A Politoed or Ninetales with their Hidden Ability, Drizzle and Drought, respectively. Used to make permanent weather to help boost Politoed's/Ninetales's teammates and themselves. Tyranitar, Abomasnow, and Hippowdon are also used to set up permanent weather.

LeadApe

An Infernape used as a lead. Commonly knowing the moves Fake Out, Stealth Rock, Fire Blast, and Close Combat and holding a Focus Sash. Infernape is a popular lead for its ability to set up an entry hazard while generally knocking out the opponent's lead and preventing them from setting up Stealth Rock or Spikes. This Infernape set is used with a Naive or Hasty nature to boost Speed while allowing Fire Blast, a special move, and Close Combat, a physical move, to do maximum damage. Generally, all Infernape's effort values for this set are invested into Attack, Special Attack, and Speed.

McIceGar

A moveset for Gengar with many variations. Usually used to describe the Subpunching Gengar with Thunderbolt and Ice Punch, but moves such as Psychic, Shadow Ball and Sludge Bomb are sometimes included. As of Generation IV, Ice Punch is no longer a reliable option for McIceGar since it has become physical, and so it must use Hidden Power instead.

MixApe

A commonly used mixed sweeper moveset for Infernape that is extremely useful for wall-breaking, especially Skarmbliss. The set consists of a combination of the moves Flamethrower/Fire Blast, Close Combat, Grass Knot, ThunderPunch, Hidden Power Ice and Nasty Plot. It usually holds the item Life Orb. Generally used with a Naive or Hasty nature, and all effort values are invested into Attack, Special Attack, and Speed.

MixMence

A commonly used variant of Salamence. It is a Sweeper that runs one of two movesets that utilize a mixture of strong physical and special attacks.

Pseudo-legendary Pokémon

Main article: Pseudo-legendary Pokémon

Any of the following Pokémon: Dragonite, Tyranitar, Salamence, Metagross, Garchomp, and Hydreigon. These Pokémon have base stat totals of 600 and diverse movepools, but are not legendary Pokémon.

PowerKing

A risky but extremely powerful double-battle strategy requiring three Pokémon and several steps. On the first turn a Medicham with Pure Power and low defenses is sent out with a fast and moderately defensive Pokémon with Skill Swap. The Medicham will be knocked out, but not before Skill Swap is used on it. An Adamant Slaking with the moves Endure, Reversal, Flail, Shadow Claw and the item Salac Berry is sent out in replacement of the Medicham. The second turn is the riskiest turn, as the opponent must attack the Slaking. The Pokémon with Skill Swap must use it on the Slaking and the Slaking must use Endure. At this point, Flail will have a power of 200 with STAB, Reversal can be used against Steel- and Rock-type Pokémon, and Shadow Claw can be used to hit Ghost-type Pokémon. A less powerful but less risky version can be done with a Regigigas.

ScarfChomp

A Garchomp holding the item Choice Scarf, whose Speed is multiplied by 1.5.

Giovanni has a Garchomp with a Choice Scarf in his Pokémon World Tournament Type Expert Tournament and World Leaders Tournament team.

Skarmbliss

A combination of Skarmory and Blissey used in the same team, which is designed to make use of Skarmory's high Defense stat and numerous resistances, as well as Blissey's high Special Defense stat and extraordinary HP stat. It is very difficult to beat if one is not prepared, so most teams carry a Skarmbliss counter. This combination does not work as well in Generation IV because of the physical/special split. In Generation III, Skarmory's weaknesses were special, so Blissey could cover those weaknesses well, and Blissey's weakness was physical so Skarmory took that well. Due to the physical/special split, it isn't as reliable.

SpecsMence

A Salamence holding Choice Specs (or Wise Glasses in some cases), with the moves Draco Meteor, Fire Blast or Flamethrower, Hydro Pump, and Dragon Pulse.

Suicide Spiker/Rocker

A Forretress with the moveset consisting of Stealth Rock, Spikes, Toxic Spikes and Explosion. Set up all the traps then use Explosion so the next Pokémon has to deal with the brunt of the attacks of the spikes taking up to 50% of their HP and being badly poisoned. Works well with a Shuffler to make all of the opponent's Pokémon suffer.

Suicide Lead

A moveset in which the user is equipped with a Focus Sash. The purpose of this moveset is to set up Stealth Rock, while anticipating an attack that could OHKO the user, but survives with the Focus Sash. This is a very common moveset for leading Azelf and Aerodactyl.

TechniLoom

Breloom with its Hidden Ability, Technician, that knows Mach Punch and Bullet Seed.

TyraniBoah

A moveset specifically for Tyranitar (but also viable on others) with the Subpuncher combo and the BoltBeam (or in Tyranitar's case, BoltCrunch) combo. It is also an example of very advanced battling techniques on both sides, as it requires the player to predict that the opponent will predict the next attack and switch to something resistant to it. An example of this would be if the opponent has a Salamence in play and expects the player to use Ice Beam and thus switches to a Starmie. Predicting the switch, the player actually select Thunderbolt or Crunch and knocks out the Starmie on the switch-in.

Wondertomb/Wondereye

A hacked Spiritomb or Sableye with the Ability Wonder Guard. Since Spiritomb and Sableye have no weaknesses, they cannot be damaged by normal attacks. However, they can be damaged by status ailments, weather conditions, entry hazards, Fire Fang*, Future Sight*, Doom Desire*, Beat Up*, Struggle, recoil, Life Orb, Sticky Barb, Black Sludge, Rough Skin, Iron Barbs, Rocky Helmet, fixed-damage attacks, after the use of Gastro Acid, Entrainment*, Worry Seed, Simple Beam, Foresight, Odor Sleuth or Soak, and by Pokémon with Mold Breaker, Turboblaze, Teravolt, or Scrappy.

In the fourth Pokéstar Studios movie in the Ghost Eraser Series Majin is a dual-type Dark/Ghost opponent which has the Ability Wonder Guard.

Tier

Main article: Tier

A tier is a list of Pokémon in the metagame selected based on numerous traits, such as how the Pokémon's stats are distributed, its type and moves, and overall usefulness in battle.

Uber

A tier of the metagame, currently the highest there is. It is specifically constructed as a banlist for the Overused metagame. The tier mostly consists of legendary Pokémon, although not all of them are in the Uber tier. Abilities can also be Uber.

OU

Over-Used. A tier of the metagame. It is the second highest tier, only surpassed by Uber.

BL

Borderline. A tier of the metagame. It is the third highest tier, in between OU and UU.

UU

Under-Used. A tier of the metagame that is the third lowest, not counting NFE.

RU

Rarely-Used. A tier in the metagame that is the second lowest, not counting NFE. This tier first appeared in Generation V.

NU

Never-Used. A tier of the metagame. It is currently the lowest tier to date, not counting NFE. This tier first appeared in Generation III.

NFE

Not an actual tier, but a term used to describe Pokémon that are not fully evolved, and thus should not be used competitively until they evolve. There are some NFEs that can viably be used competitively, namely:

Some NFEs do exactly the same as their evolution. These may also be used competitively, but only in lower tiers than their evolution. An example of this is Munchlax in NU. There are some Pokémon that work in OU that are NFEs, such as Porygon2, because it fits in differently from its evolution, Porygon-Z. Several other NFE Pokémon became viable, even in OU, with the Eviolite, with the most notable being Chansey.

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