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Volt Switch lets Rotom-W pivot out against checks like Amoonguss and Tangrowth and bring in Scizor and Salamence, while Hydro Pump lets it nail Volt Switch blockers like Hippowdon, Excadrill, and Thundurus-T. Pain Split can be used on Chansey and the aforementioned Grass-types for some good recovery thanks to their massive HP, though Rotom-W must watch out for Toxic from Chansey. Will-O-Wisp cripples the likes of Cobalion, Scizor, and Dragon Dance Salamence, as well as hampering Amooguss's longevity. Defog can be used to capitalize on Rotom-W's solid matchup against entry hazard setters like Skarmory and Hippowdon, though dropping Will-O-Wisp leaves it susceptible to bulky Swords Dance Scizor and unable to meaningfully damage Grass-types. 88 Speed EVs let Rotom-W outspeed Adamant maximum Speed Scizor, with the rest invested into HP and Defense to check physical threats like Mamoswine and Salamence, but it can run a specially defensive spread with a Calm nature to better handle Primarina and Nidoqueen. Rotom-W can run more Speed to outpace Nidoking, but the relatively empty Speed tier in between is not worth the loss in bulk. Rotom-W best fits on balance and bulky offense teams as an effective defensive pivot against deadly foes like Mamoswine and Meteor Beam Celesteela. Rotom-W forms a good VoltTurn core with other pivots such as Scizor and Zarude, since they are all able to pivot around and come in on each other's checks often. Scizor can come in on Tangrowth and opposing Zarude, while Zarude can come in on Zygarde-10%, and both appreciate Skarmory and Celesteela being handled by Rotom-W. Entry hazards from Hippowdon, Nihilego, and Nidoqueen can be especially deadly due to how many times Rotom-W and its teammates can force out its foes. Since Rotom-W can't handle foes like Cobalion, Excadrill, and Zygarde-10%, which other defensive Water-types usually check, Amoonguss and Tangrowth can greatly benefit it. They can also work in tandem to check Keldeo and Primarina so Rotom-W doesn't get overwhelmed as easily. Wallbreakers like Mamoswine and Choice Specs Hydreigon also appreciate the pivoting Rotom-W offers, bringing them in on Tangrowth and Amoonguss. Checks to both Chansey and Hydreigon are important, and Cobalion, Conkeldurr, and Togekiss help out in this regard. The latter can also provide Heal Bell support to help sustain Rotom-W's longevity.

Choice Scarf lets Rotom-W outspeed many faster threats like Keldeo, +2 Celesteela, and +1 Gyarados as well as pivot out against otherwise faster checks like Zarude. Defog gives it emergency entry hazard control against Excadrill while still reliably beating every other entry hazard setter. However, Pain Split can be used over Defog if the team already has a form of entry hazard removal, letting Rotom-W retain its longevity against checks like Chansey and Tangrowth. Trick cripples Chansey, Slowking, and Amoonguss and can be used once Rotom-W's revenge killing role is no longer needed, such as if Gyarados and Lycanroc-D are removed. Choice Scarf Rotom-W fits on balance teams that appreciate some form of speed and entry hazard control in one slot that can cripple bulky Pokemon like Chansey and Amoonguss with Trick. Cobalion appreciates Rotom-W outspeeding Azelf, Zygarde-10%, and Choice Scarf Diggersby and handling Ground- and Fire-type moves coming its way. Cobalion can be brought in on Grass-types like Amoonguss and Zarude while also absorbing Knock Off for Rotom-W. Excadrill and Salamence can act as hazard control in place of Rotom-W to let it run Pain Split to aid its longevity. The latter also counters Zarude. Amoonguss and Tangrowth can act as primary checks to Keldeo and Primarina while also handling Zarude and Zygarde-10%. Nihilego provides Stealth Rock support and pressures Thundurus-T well. Trick cripples foes such as non-Choice item Hydreigon to help out a partner like Hex Chandelure. Chansey clears status with Aromatherapy and counters Hydreigon and Nidoqueen.

Rotom-W uses Volt Switch and Will-O-Wisp to damage walls like Eternatus and Ferrothorn over time. These moves are the main draws of the set and are crucial for Rotom-W as a wall to make up for its lack of offensive stats. Pain Split is necessary for recovery and is a great help in the Ubers tier, where many Pokemon like Eternatus have very high natural HP stats, letting it reliably heal off most damage. Forcing Eternatus to recover off the resulting chip damage is important for momentum, allowing in partners that can exploit a free turn off a Volt Switch like Weavile to come in. Hydro Pump is helpful for dealing with Zygarde trying to set up Substitute before becoming Zygarde-C, as well as chipping Groudon, which takes no damage from burn over time if holding Leftovers. Alternatively, Defog can reliably clear entry hazards against the tier's best Stealth Rock setters, Necrozma-DM and Groudon, allowing for Stealth Rock-weak Pokemon like Galarian Darmanitan and Rayquaza to shine as partners. However, it makes Rotom-W even more passive. One of Rotom-W's biggest weaknesses is status, with Toxic on Groudon or Necrozma-DM limiting how much it can pivot. It is important to pair Rotom-W with a cleric, such as Calyrex-S, Xerneas, or Blissey, to alleviate this weakness. Xerneas in particular is a good pivot into Dragon-types like Zygarde, and it adds a great Knock Off switch-in so Rotom-W can keep its Leftovers. Baiting in Ferrothorn and Eternatus and using Volt Switch is a fantastic way to get in strong wallbreakers like Galarian Darmanitan and Choice Specs Calyrex-S, which can take advantage of these Pokemon. Kyogre is another strong partner, as it appreciates the chip damage Rotom-W deals to its checks, which lets break through them with Choice Specs- or Calm Mind-boosted attacks more easily.

Hydro Pump is used to hit Ground-types like Garchomp, Gliscor, and Mamoswine that attempt to block Volt Switch. Will-O-Wisp lets Rotom-W cripple physical attackers like Azumarill, Feraligatr, and Scizor. Thunder Wave debilitates Pokemon that rely on their high Speed like Weavile and Alakazam, making them easier to revenge kill. Protect can be used to scout Choice item users like Azumarill while also being able to rack up extra Will-O-Wisp damage and gain more recovery from Leftovers. Alternatively, Discharge can be used for a second Electric STAB that has a nasty 30% paralysis rate, and a higher base power that allows it to KO threats like Belly Drum Azumarill. However, it indirectly inhibits Will-O-Wisp, as if Discharge paralyzes a strong physical attacker like Scizor or Tyranitar, it can prove to be a liability. Both Will-O-Wisp and Thunder Wave can be run at the same time to give Rotom-W more flexibility in terms of spreading status, but this is not generally recommended. 8 Speed EVs allow Rotom-W to outspeed Adamant Crawdaunt. This set fits on bulky offense and balance teams where it acts as a slow pivot, safely bringing in strong offensive teammates while checking Heatran, Mamoswine, and Feraligatr. Heatran is a good partner, dealing with Pokemon that check Rotom-W like Tangrowth and Clefable while also providing Stealth Rock support. In return, Heatran appreciates Rotom-W's ability to beat Water- and Ground-types like Slowbro, Mamoswine, and Gliscor. Scizor can check Latias while appreciating Rotom-W checking Heatran and forming a VoltTurn core. Strong offensive Pokemon like Alakazam, Breloom, and Garchomp are able to take advantage of the offensive momentum Rotom-W generates while also appreciating Rotom-W's ability to chip foes, softening them up for the late-game.

Rotom-W's good bulk coupled with its defensive typing and access to Volt Switch makes it a good defensive pivot and Defog user on Water teams. Defog prevents the team from being overwhelmed with entry hazards, especially Spikes and Sticky Web; Levitate is especially great with Defog, as it allows Rotom-W to avoid all hazards bar Stealth Rock. Spikes is obnoxious to deal with because it chips almost all of Rotom-W's teammates down, and Sticky Web slows down offensive Pokemon such as Barraskewda, Dracovish, Keldeo, and Seismitoad, making sweeping relatively harder. Will-O-Wisp is used to cripple physical attackers such as Bisharp and Mimikyu, while Thunder Wave can be used to slow down faster Pokemon such as Gardevoir, Duraludon and Dragapult for the team. Volt Switch should be used liberally to grab momentum, whether against Pokemon Rotom-W can't outright beat such as Reuniclus and Snorlax, faster Pokemon, or forced switches. Rotom-W should generally look for opportunities to pivot into resisted attacks such as Seismitoad's Hydro Pump and Togekiss's Air Slash so it can use Defog safety and grab momentum. However, it does lack a form of reliable recovery, so be careful when switching it into stronger attacks and preserve its HP. The entire Water team appreciates Rotom-W's ability to remove hazards. Pokemon such as Pelipper and Toxapex in particular hate getting chipped by Stealth Rock and Spikes, as it limits their ability to switch in and do their job well. Offensive Pokemon such as Keldeo, Crawdaunt, Dracovish, Barraskewda, and Cloyster also hate taking chip damage and struggle with Sticky Web, as they rely on their Speed stats to consistently threaten the opposing team. Rotom-W can also pivot into stronger attacks for the aforementioned offensive Pokemon and can use Volt Switch in order to grab momentum, giving them a safe switch. In return, many of these offensive Pokemon can use the safe switch in to beat Pokemon that Rotom-W can't such as Ferrothorn, Indeedee, Hydreigon, and Dragapult. Rotom-W appreciates Pokemon such as Dracovish, Pelipper, Seismitoad, and Mantine, as they are able to threaten Celebi for it. Toxapex is a good defensive Pokemon that pairs well with Rotom-W because of its ability to absorb status from Pokemon such as Drapion and Mandibuzz, and it can pivot into stronger attacks such as Roserade's Leaf Storm and Lucario's Focus Blast for Rotom-W. It can also use Haze to prevent setup sweepers such as Hydreigon and Reuniclus from getting out of hand.

Rotom-W serves as the primary defensive Pokemon on Electric-type teams, taking advantage of its part Water typing to take on threatening Pokemon like Barraskewda and Galarian Darmanitan. In addition, its ability Levitate enables Rotom-W to act as the primary check to Ground-types. Will-O-Wisp is good for burning physical attackers such as Bisharp and Mimikyu while Toxic is important for allowing Rotom-W to beat Pokemon such as Seismitoad and Gastrodon that would wall it otherwise, making it even better against Ground teams. Volt Switch enables Rotom-W to act as a slow pivot for the team in order to bring in teammates safely. Due to Levitate and Volt Switch, nearly every Electric-type Pokemon greatly benefits from Rotom-W's presence on a team. Specifically, Toxtricity and Zeraora greatly appreciate Rotom-W's ability to serve as a defensive pivot by using Volt Switch to bring them in safely. Rotom-W also pairs well with Vikavolt, which provides a secondary Ground-type immunity. Heliolisk can also pair well with Rotom-W due to its immunity to Water-type attacks, which also relieves the pressure from Rotom-W to deal with strong Water-type Pokemon. In addition, Heliolisk's coverage moves also helps deal with Ground-types, further relieving pressure from Rotom-W.

Rotom-W is a decent setup sweeper on Water teams thanks to its access to Nasty Plot in tandem with Substitute. Substitute allows Rotom-W to set up on more passive Pokemon such as Toxapex, Pelipper, Mandibuzz, and Jellicent, posing a huge threat to types such as Water, Ghost, and Dark. Thunderbolt and Hydro Pump are Rotom-W's STAB moves, with Hydro Pump being especially strong under rain. Thunderbolt hits everything on Water bar Seismitoad and the uncommon Gastrodon, and Hydro Pump beats them both if they are Swift Swim and Sticky Hold, respectively. Dark Pulse is an alternative option over Hydro Pump in order to hit Pokemon such as Celebi, Seismitoad, and Ferrothorn. Generally, Rotom-W should try to look for opportunities to punch holes in the opposition early- to mid-game for other sweepers like Barraskewda and Seismitoad to sweep late-game, since Rotom-W won't be sweeping by itself most of the time. A Timid nature along with maximum Speed investment is used to outspeed Pokemon such as Gyarados and Togekiss that can be problematic to deal with otherwise. Pelipper's Drizzle is great for boosting Rotom-W's Hydro Pump, and Pelipper can bring in Rotom-W safely with U-turn. Keldeo primarily is an amazing partner for Rotom-W because it can beat Pokemon like Ferrothorn and Hydreigon that would otherwise be problematic, while Keldeo appreciates Rotom-W's ability to beat Flying-type Pokemon such as Togekiss and Corviknight for it. Other offensive Pokemon like Seismitoad, Barraskewda, and Choice Scarf Dracovish appreciate Rotom-W's role as a early- to mid-game wallbreaker in order to sweep teams late-game. Rotom-W also appreciates said Pokemon to beat Pokemon that it can't, such as Ferrothorn, while outspeeding faster Pokemon such as Indeedee, Hydreigon, and Dragapult. Toxapex is a good partner for Rotom-W because of its access to Toxic Spikes, which helps with types such as Normal, Psychic, and Fairy. Toxapex is also great as a defensive pivot, being able to switch into attacks such as Ferrothorn's Power Whip for Rotom-W. Araquanid is a good partner for Rotom-W because of its ability to set Sticky Web and slow down faster Pokemon such as Mew, Indeedee, and Choice Scarf Gardevoir for it to outspeed. It can also threaten Celebi with Leech Life.

Rotom-W serves as a premier defensive pivot thanks to its high Defense, typing, and Levitate allowing it to check strong Pokemon like Excadrill and Tornadus-T. Volt Switch allows Rotom-W to safely pivot out of threats like Rillaboom and Buzzwole and bring in teammates to pressure them. Scald deters switch-ins like Zeraora and Dracozolt by threatening them with burn. Roost gives Rotom-W consistent recovery, while Strength Sap better checks setup sweepers like Excadrill and Salamence, though it becomes less effective with repeated uses. Rotom-W's last move is flexible based on preference and team composition; Toxic wears down other defensive Pokemon and threatening setup sweepers, while Apple Acid hits Seismitoad and weakens opposing special walls with Special Defense drops. Defog lets Rotom-W serve as an entry hazard remover and has good matchups against many common entry hazard setters. 56 Speed EVs outspeeds Adamant Tyranitar and pivots safely out of strong moves such as Head Smash. More Speed EVs can be invested to outspeed threats like Buzzwole and Heatran, but this comes at the cost of cutting further into its bulk. Offensive Pokemon like Gengar, Weavile, and Keldeo appreciate Rotom-W's ability both to take physical hits and bring them in safely. Rotom-W struggles with special walls like Blissey and appreciates physically offensive teammates that can remove them, such as Aerodactyl and Terrakion, as well as teammates such as Corviknight that can switch into Grass-types like Rillaboom.

Rotom-W is one of the best defensive Pokemon in the metagame thanks to its great defensive stats, useful resistances, and plethora of moves that make it incredibly annoying to switch into. Thunder Wave cripples threats such as Yveltal, Volcarona, and Tapu Lele, while Will-O-Wisp ruins physical attackers such as Rayquaza, Necrozma-DM, and Bisharp. Volt Switch lets Rotom-W generate momentum on special walls like Ferrothorn, Tangrowth, and Giratina for free. Pain Split gives it a form of recovery, which can help in longer games. Defog is another option, as Rotom-W beats common entry hazard setters like Necrozma-DM, Landorus-T, and Heatran. Leftovers is the preferred item to give Rotom-W a form of passive recovery. Rotom-W fits best on bulky offense teams. It's best paired up with gods with high HP stats like Yveltal, Kyurem-W, and Ho-Oh. Other pivoting teammates like the aforementioned Yveltal, as well as Landorus-T, Zeraora, and Tapu Koko, are highly valued as they're able to keep up the momentum alongside Rotom-W. Powerful wallbreakers like Tapu Lele, Kartana, and Rayquaza also appreciate Rotom-W's pivoting and ability to spread status. Grass-types like Kartana, Ferrothorn, and Tangrowth are annoying for it, so pairing it up with Grass checks like Tornadus-T, Heatran, and Galarian Slowking make for good partnerships. Will-O-Wisp variants are vulnerable against special attackers like Mewtwo, Nidoking, and Tapu Lele, making specially defensive walls such as Galarian Slowking, Tangrowth, and Necrozma-DM fantastic teammates.

Due to its amazing defensive typing, Levitate, and the ability to check a multitude of threats such as Mega Swampert, Mega Scizor, Landorus-T and Gliscor, Rotom-W is a great pivot on offensive teams. Volt Switch lets Rotom-W generate momentum freely on the Grass- and Dragon-types that it lures in, and it can also pivot freely because Hydro Pump deters Ground-types that could block its Volt Switch. Pain Split gives Rotom-W longevity together with Leftovers, although unreliably. Defog is another option over Pain Split for role compression, as it also has a good matchup against two of the best Stealth Rock setters in the tier, Heatran and Landorus-T. However losing out on the recovery is generally not worth it for an otherwise subpar Defogger, since Rotom-W is threatened greatly by Toxic in the long term and loses to common Stealth Rock setters such as Garchomp, Clefable, and Mega Diancie. Will-O-Wisp prevents Pokemon such as Mega Scizor from using Rotom-W as setup bait. The given EV spread allows it to outspeed Tyranitar, specially defensive Heatran, and Aegislash. Strong wallbreakers such as Mega Medicham, Ash-Greninja, Heatran, and Mega Mawile all appreciate Rotom-W’s ability to bring them in safely, and Mega Mawile especially loves Rotom-W luring in Grass-types such as Tangrowth and Rillaboom that it can use as setup fodder. Pokemon such as Ferrothorn, Tangrowth, and Corviknight all appreciate the Fire resistance Rotom-W provides, and they can check Grass-types like Serperior, Rillaboom, and Kartana for it in return. Landorus-T and Jirachi also form a potent VoltTurn core with Rotom-W that can be difficult to stop and exerts immense pressure, as Rotom-W threatens Skarmory, Corviknight, and defensive Landorus-T for its partners. Garchomp is also a notable partner, as it appreciates Rotom-W bringing it in safely and threatening Tapu Fini, Skarmory, and Corviknight for it, in addition to providing an extra defensive measure for opposing Heatran. Lastly, Heatran and Tangrowth both appreciate Rotom-W’s ability to check threats such as Flyinium Z Landorus-T and, in the case of Heatran, Mega Swampert. In return, Heatran and Tangrowth check Rillaboom and Serperior for Rotom-W.

Rotom-W is a great defensive pivot for Electric teams thanks to its good bulk, Water typing, and Levitate, which combine to let it handle threats like Sand Rush Excadrill, Mamoswine, and Gliscor while threatening them with a powerful STAB Hydro Pump. Additionally, its Water typing means it can check Fire- and Water-types such as Blacephalon, Victini, and Urshifu-R that are otherwise difficult to deal with for Electric teams. Volt Switch can bring in offensive teammates like Tapu Koko, Regieleki, and Zeraora safely in a match. It also works very well in tandem with Hydro Pump, as Rotom-W can pressure numerous Ground-types and prevent them from blocking Volt Switch. Will-O-Wisp cripples physical attackers like Mega Gallade, Weavile, and Garchomp, and it is especially effective against switch-ins like Tapu Bulu and Rillaboom. Pain Split is helpful if Rotom-W is weakened, healing off of high-HP foes such as Blissey. Alternatively, Defog may be used to let Rotom-W act as an entry hazard remover on teams should Zapdos lack Defog. Leftovers gives Rotom-W a form of recovery outside of Pain Split, making it weakened less easily. 44 Speed EVs are used in order to outspeed Jolly Azumarill, while 252 HP and 212 Special Defense EVs along with a Calm nature make Rotom-W more effective against special attackers such as Blacephalon, Greninja, and Choice Specs Pelipper. All teammates benefit from Rotom-W's typing allowing it to notably check Ground-, Fire-, and Water-types such as Sand Rush Excadrill, Mamoswine, Blacephalon, and Urshifu-R, as Electric teams otherwise have limited defensive checks to these Pokemon. Zapdos forms an excellent defensive core with Rotom-W, as Zapdos can deal with Grass-types that give Rotom-W trouble such as Tapu Bulu, Rillaboom, and Ferrothorn. Additionally, Zapdos can take on Mold Breaker Excadrill, which is very problematic for Rotom-W and the rest of Electric teams. Choice Specs Zapdos can also be used to break through additional Grass-types like Mega Venusaur and Cradily with a powerful STAB Hurricane. Tapu Koko and Play Rough Zeraora can deal with numerous Dragon-types that Rotom-W heavily struggles against such as Kommo-o, Mega Latias, and Hydreigon. Additionally, Tapu Koko can pressure troublesome Ground-types for Rotom-W like Gastrodon, Seismitoad, and Swampert with Grass Knot. Zeraora pressures specially defensive walls such as Blissey and Galarian Slowking for Rotom-W. Alolan Raichu can take on threats like Mega Venusaur due to its Psychic typing while utilizing Grass Knot in order to defeat Ground-types that give Rotom-W trouble, such as Gastrodon, Seismitoad, and Swampert. Regieleki appreciates Rotom-W's ability to eliminate most Ground-types with Hydro Pump, giving it a great opportunity to break through the opposing team with its powerful Electric-type moves. Alolan Golem and Magnezone can trap and eliminate Steel-types such as Mold Breaker Excadrill and Ferrothorn, with both often being immune to Excadrill's Earthquake due to Air Balloon.

Rotom-Wash's typing is a good fit for a bulky attacker. Discharge gives Rotom-W a higher chance to paralyze foes, while Thunderbolt offers more power and can be a better fit with Will-O-Wisp. Will-O-Wisp allows Rotom-W to effectively cripple physical attackers. If using Assault Vest, Dark Pulse is the most damage Rotom-W can do to Dragapult and Naganadel. Items Sitrus Berry gives Rotom-W a quick burst of recovery, which is important against powerful foes such as Cinderace. Assault Vest gives Rotom-W a lot of special bulk, especially if it Dynamaxes. EV Spreads 252 HP / 4 Def / 92 SpA / 12 SpD / 148 Spe with Modest: This spread allows Rotom-W to outspeed Timid Celesteela, while offering good bulk and decent power. 252 HP / 108 Def / 148 Spe with Bold: This spread maximizes Rotom-W's physical bulk while still outspeeding Timid Celesteela. 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 Spe with Bold: This spread gives Rotom-W the maximum physical defense possible. 252 HP / 252 SpA / 4 SpD with Modest: This spread maximizes Rotom-W's bulk and power.

Rotom-W makes a shockingly good user of Nasty Plot, with high base power moves and good coverage. Dark Pulse ensures that Dragapult and Naganadel don't wall Rotom-W, and is an excellent fit while Dynamaxed with Max Darkness lowering foes' Special Defense. Volt Switch lets Rotom-W be a good pivot when it can't set up Nasty Plot. Will-O-Wisp allows Rotom-W to cripple physical attackers, and act more as a general bulky set if setting up Nasty Plot doesn't make sense. Substitute lets Rotom-W set up on common status users such as Swampert, Celesteela, and Hippowdon that lack Whirlwind. Items Sitrus Berry gives Rotom-W a quick burst of recovery. Leftovers is a good option if using Substitute, gradually letting Rotom-W regain its health back against passive Pokemon. Chesto Berry + Rest can also be an effective option against Hippowdon leads. EV Spreads 92 HP / 4 Def / 252 SpA / 12 SpD / 148 Spe with Modest: This spread allows Rotom-W to outspeed Timid Celesteela, while maximizing its power. 252 HP / 4 Def / 92 SpA / 12 SpD / 148 Spe with Modest: This spread makes Rotom-W more like its bulky set, while still giving it enough power to be a threat with Nasty Plot. 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe with Modest or Timid: This spread maximizes Rotom-W's Speed and power. Modest is still prefered for damage output, but Timid does allow Rotom-W to outspeed Modest Galarian Moltres.

With access to Volt Switch and Trick, Rotom-W makes for a great choiced pivot in the metagame. Thunderbolt gives Rotom-W an Electric-type STAB it can stay in with without Dynamaxing, but Dark Pulse lets Rotom-W deal good damage to Dragapult switch-ins, and is the most damage it can do against Naganadel switch-ins. Items Choice Specs gives Rotom-W a much needed power boost. Choice Scarf is still a good option to let Rotom-W outspeed important threats such as Landorus-T and Dragapult. EV Spreads 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe with Modest or Timid: This spread maximizes Rotom-W's power and speed. Modest is prefered for damage output, but Timid does outspeed Modest Galarian Moltres. 92 HP / 4 Def / 252 SpA / 12 SpD / 148 Spe with Modest: This is a slightly bulkier spread that ensures Choice Specs Rotom-W outspeeds Timid Celesteela. 252 HP / 252 SpA / 4 SpD with Modest: This spread maximizes power and bulk for Choice Specs Rotom-W.

For full USUM 1v1 analyses, you can check out the USUM format page.

Hydro Pump is essential to all Rotom-Wash movesets, as it is Rotom-Wash's only Water-type move. Thunderbolt is a reliable Electric-type STAB move with decent power. Will-O-Wisp is great for crippling the many physical attackers in this metagame, but the introduction of Tapu Fini and its Misty Surge ability has made this unreliable. Electroweb is a great option for speed control, offering accuracy and efficacy under Misty Terrain over Thunder Wave. Protect is always very useful in VGC, as it allows stalling through weather and terrains, as well as capitalizing on double targets by allowing Rotom-Wash’s partner to take out a threat while it defends itself. Wiki Berry greatly extends Rotom-Wash’s longevity by providing a one-time HP boost. Alternatively, Sitrus Berry could be used for its far greater window of activation. Waterium Z is great for upping Rotom-Wash’s offensive presence with a powerful and 100% accurate Water-type STAB move. The defensive nature and EVs let Rotom-Wash survive a multitude of powerful attacks, including Jolly Mega Metagross' Zen Headbutt in Psychic Terrain, an Adamant Mega Kangaskhan's Double Edge, -1 Adamant Kartana's Leaf Blade, and -1 Adamant Tapu Bulu's Horn Leech. It also ensures that Rotom-Wash avoids a 2HKO by Jolly Tyranitar's Rock Slide with sandstorm damage, an OHKO by Timid Mega Charizard Y’s Solar Beam in sun, and a 2HKO by 252 Atk Incineroar Darkest Lariat. The rest is dumped in Special Attack, with the one point leftover put in Speed. If running Electroweb, an alternate spread is 252 HP / 44 Def / 52 SpA / 60 SpD / 100 Spe with a Modest nature. This outspeeds base 110s after they're hit with Electroweb and 2HKOes both 252 HP / 100 SpD Assault Vest Incineroar and 252 HP Milotic, at the cost of fainting to Mega Charizard Y’s Solar Beam. The rest is dumped in Special Defense. Rotom-Wash is very flexible when it comes to EVs; adjust them to suit your team. Assault Vest is another viable item, especially since Tapu Fini was introduced. For Assault Vest Rotom-Wash, a set of Electroweb, Hydro Pump, Thunderbolt, and Volt Switch is recommended. Reflect is a good alternative to Will-O-Wisp, if your team is really struggling with Tapu Fini. Ally Switch can be used in place of Protect, as Rotom-Wash has an incredibly useful typing that allows it to utilize Ally Switch well. It also has the potential to catch your opponents off guard, as Ally Switch is relatively uncommon. Use Rotom-Wash as a straightforward pivot. Switch it in on resisted attacks and start attacking, or force the opponent to switch through its typing. Many Pokemon pair well with Rotom-Wash. Landorus-T is a great partner, as Rotom-Wash handily removes Flying- and Water-types and is immune to its Earthquake. Steel-types like Metagross and Ferrothorn also appreciate Rotom-Wash, as it handles Fire- and Ground-types easily. Fire-types can deal with Rotom-Wash’s only weakness, Grass, and appreciate the annihilation of Water-, Ground-, and Rock-types. When running Will-O-Wisp an Island Guardian on your team other than Tapu Fini is necessary to remove Misty Terrain, which denies Rotom-Wash’s ability to burn.

Moves Volt Switch allows Rotom-Wash to take advantage of its low Speed to pivot a teammate into play safely and keep up momentum. Hydro Pump is Rotom-Wash's most powerful STAB attack and gives it offensive presence. Importantly, Hydro Pump hits Ground-type Pokemon for super effective damage, preventing most of them from blocking Volt Switch. Defog removes entry hazards from the field and makes sure that Toxic Spikes cannot cripple Rotom-Wash's teammates. Will-O-Wisp is the preferred status move for Rotom-Wash, as it allows Rotom-Wash to cripple physical attackers and setup sweepers that try to boost. On teams that are especially reliant on Rotom-Wash's Defog, Pain Split can be used instead of Will-O-Wisp to make it a more reliable switch-in to physical attackers and capable of taking more attacks as it pivots out. Pain Split can also be used if the team doesn't need Rotom-Wash's Defog support. Toxic is another option that can be used with Will-O-Wisp if Defog is unneeded to cripple specific defensive checks in Seismitoad, Porygon2, and Zapdos, along with many other walls. Set Details The EV spread and Bold nature maximize Rotom-Wash's physical bulk while minimizing Stealth Rock damage and ensuring it outspeeds Jolly Azumarill and defensive Landorus-T. Other EV spreads with more Speed, such as 248 HP / 40 Def / 220 Spe, can be used to allow Rotom-Wash to outspeed Pokemon such as Diggersby and Breloom; however, the lost Defense will make it more difficult for Rotom-Wash to check these Pokemon. Leftovers is useful for improving Rotom-Wash's longevity over a long game. Iapapa Berry can be used instead to gain a one-time burst of healing, which can come in handy against attacks like Breloom's Bullet Seed if Rotom-Wash needs to burn it. Levitate is Rotom-Wash's only ability, granting it a valuable immunity to Ground-type attacks, Spikes, and Toxic Spikes. Usage Tips Rotom-Wash should primarily be used to switch into attacks for its teammates before pivoting out again with Volt Switch. While Ground-types can block Rotom-Wash's Volt Switch, the threat of Hydro Pump and Will-O-Wisp can typically keep most of them from switching in or staying in against it. However, because Gastrodon and Seismitoad are immune to Hydro Pump, they are big threats to Rotom-Wash and it should typically double switch out when you expect them to come in. Rotom-Wash still needs to be careful around other Electric-immune Pokemon such as Thundurus-T, as they can freely switch into Volt Switch and threaten to use a Volt Switch of their own. However, be careful with letting Rotom-Wash take more powerful hits when it switches in, as its lack of reliable recovery prevents it from being a switch-in to wallbreakers. Whenever the opponent has set entry hazards, try to bring Rotom-Wash into play to remove them. If possible, try to switch it in as Stealth Rock is being set, as Rotom-Wash hates taking even minor residual damage. For the same reason, be sure to avoid letting Rotom-Wash get poisoned or badly poisoned, as it will be much easier to wear down. Because Leftovers helps counteract the chip damage it inevitably will take, avoid Knock Off users. Alolan Muk is a particularly dangerous Knock Off user, as its Poison Touch ability can allow it to poison Rotom-Wash and simultaneously remove Leftovers. If it's running Toxic itself, Rotom-Wash should typically hide it to surprise walls that do not expect to get crippled. It can also be used to put setup sweepers on a timer if Will-O-Wisp is incapable of stopping them. Otherwise, Rotom-Wash should usually avoid contesting other defensive Pokemon, as it cannot afford to take a status move and has no reliable recovery. That being said, Pain Split should be used mainly against other defensive Pokemon, as Rotom-Wash's low base HP makes it especially good at healing against them. Team Options Thanks to Levitate, Rotom-Wash makes a fantastic teammate for Water teams that are typically threatened by the strong Ground-type attackers in Excadrill and Landorus-T but prefer to have the offensive presence that other defensive Ground checks lack. Choice Scarf Greninja with U-turn can form a strong VoltTurn core with Rotom-Wash and also runs Gunk Shot, making it a good check to Grass-types. In addition to this, Greninja can revenge kill many of the powerful attackers that Rotom-Wash cannot check defensively, such as Choice Band Dragonite and Diggersby. Wallbreakers such as Mega Sharpedo and Choice Specs Keldeo are good options to receive Volt Switch's free switch, as they can break many of the walls that try to stop Rotom-Wash. Setup sweepers such as Gyarados and Mega Slowbro are also very capable of taking advantage of the momentum that Volt Switch provides, as Rotom-Wash can bring them onto the field against Pokemon they can set up on. Gyarados is especially notable for being able to beat Mega Venusaur and other Grass-types that Rotom-Wash cannot deal with. Good switch-ins to Grass-types are often needed because Rotom-Wash will often pivot out of them; Toxapex, Empoleon, and Sap Sipper Azumarill are especially great teammates for this purpose. Toxapex and Empoleon are notable for setting Toxic Spikes and Stealth Rock, respectively, which can help cripple and chip at Pokemon as they are forced out by Rotom-Wash. In addition to its unique Grass immunity, Sap Sipper Azumarill can Perish trap the walls that Rotom-Wash can't handle, such as Chansey. On more defensive teams, Alomomola's use of huge Wishes and Regenerator makes it another good defensive pivot option that helps keep Rotom-Wash very healthy.

Moves Volt Switch allows Rotom-Wash to gain momentum by pivoting out into a teammate safely thanks to its low Speed stat. Hydro Pump is Rotom-Wash's way to deal with Ground-types like Hippowdon and Sand Rush Excadrill and is its strongest STAB move. Will-O-Wisp cripples physical attackers like Dragonite and Alolan Muk that Rotom-Wash couldn't seriously hurt otherwise. Pain Split allows Rotom-Wash to regain some HP, letting it tank more attacks from the opposing team, and enables Rotom-Wash to take advantage of defensive Pokemon such as Chansey by regaining most of its HP after each use thanks to Rotom-Wash's low HP stat. Defog is a nice alternative over Pain Split to clear entry hazards and screens and works well on Rotom-Wash thanks to its neutrality to Stealth Rock and immunity to Spikes and Toxic Spikes. Set Details The suggested EV spread and nature let Rotom-Wash be as specially defensive as possible while also enabling it to outspeed Jolly Azumarill and -1 Choice Band Victini. Leftovers is Rotom-Wash's preferred item, as it offers better longevity over the course of a long-lasting game. Wiki Berry, on the other hand, gives Rotom-Wash a single burst of healing, which can be pretty useful if Defog is used over Pain Split, as Rotom-Wash wouldn't have access to any kind of recovery otherwise. It can also recover some damage from strong moves like Hydreigon's Devastating Drake. Levitate is Rotom-Wash's only ability and grants it a much-needed immunity to Ground-type moves, Spikes, and Toxic Spikes. Usage Tips Rotom-Wash is one of the few defensive Pokemon on Electric, so it must be preserved throughout the game if threatening special attackers like Heatran are still alive. In fact, Rotom-Wash is best used when switched into weak moves or resisted hits before pivoting to a teammate with a slow Volt Switch to gain momentum as the opposing Pokemon switches out. Rotom-Wash can burn incoming physical attackers that threaten Electric teams and take little damage from its STAB moves, such as Dragonite and Tapu Bulu, making them much easier for Electric to deal with. In specific matchups, Rotom-Wash can be played differently. For example, against rain teams, Rotom-Wash walls both Seismitoad and Mega Swampert, so it can be switched into them without much to worry about. Against Ground teams with Landorus, it is essential that Rotom-Wash face Landorus before it can use Gravity so that it can KO it with Hydro Pump. If not, Rotom-Wash will be outsped and OHKOed by almost any Ground-type STAB move. Also, against Bug teams, Rotom-Wash must be kept healthy in order to check threats to Electric like Volcarona, since Volcarona won't 2HKO Rotom-Wash when unboosted or OHKO it when at +1. When facing defensive Pokemon, it is usually best for Rotom-Wash to Volt Switch out to a teammate that can better handle them, since most of them are too bulky to be seriously harmed by its STAB moves, and they're generally not threatened by Will-O-Wisp as much as Toxic. If Rotom-Wash is carrying Defog, don't pivot too much on enemy moves, as Rotom-Wash lacks Pain Split for recovery and Electric depends on it to clear entry hazards and screens. Finally, as a defensive Pokemon, Rotom-Wash must avoid Toxic and Knock Off as much as possible, as that would jeopardize its longevity and deny it passive recovery. If Wiki Berry is used over Leftovers, it is imperative for Rotom-Wash to not be hit by Knock Off, since that would leave it without any form of recovery whatsoever. Team Options Every Electric team member appreciates Rotom-Wash's ability to slowly pivot with Volt Switch and bring them safely onto the field. Physically defensive Zapdos perfectly complements Rotom-Wash, as they cover almost all of each other's weaknesses. Furthermore, Rotom-Wash and Zapdos form a reliable defensive backbone that virtually all Electric teams rely on, thanks to their utility options, recovery, and great bulk. For example, Zapdos can reliably check Tapu Bulu for Rotom-Wash, and in return, Rotom-Wash supports Zapdos by switching into Mamoswine's STAB moves. Also, either Zapdos or Rotom-Wash can run Defog to free up a slot for Pain Split on Rotom-Wash or for Toxic on Zapdos. Tapu Koko takes on problematic Dragon-types like Kyurem-B and Kommo-o with Dazzling Gleam. Additionally, if Tapu Koko carries Grass Knot, it can take on Seismitoad and Gastrodon, both of which completely counter Rotom-Wash. In return, Rotom-Wash can switch into Ground-type moves aimed at Tapu Koko and bring it safely on the field with its slow Volt Switch. Alolan Golem and Magnezone are both useful teammates that are able to trap threatening Steel-types like Excadrill and Ferrothorn for Rotom-Wash, with the former also being able to set up Stealth Rock. Rotom-Wash can even use Volt Switch to bring either trapper against Ferrothorn to reliably KO it. Zeraora is a valued partner that handily beats Normal teams and Tapu Bulu, which give a lot of problems to Rotom-Wash. In return, Rotom-Wash acts as a great defensive pivot for Zeraora, which is often forced to switch out after locking into a move. Alolan Raichu can KO Mega Venusaur, while Rotom-Wash can burn Alolan Muk, which is typically paired with Mega Venusaur on Poison. Thundurus is another physical attacker that helps Rotom-Wash take down Mega Venusaur and Normal teams. In exchange, Rotom-Wash can tank Ice-type moves aimed at Thundurus, such as Ice Shard from Mamoswine, and safely bring Thundurus on the field with its slow Volt Switch.

Hydro Pump is Rotom-Wash's main STAB move, while Volt Switch allows it to escape the clutches of its foes, especially since most Ground-types don't want to risk getting hit by Hydro Pump. Will-O-Wisp is great for crippling physical attackers such as Garchomp and Mega Salamence. Thunderbolt is a good Electric-type attack for when you don't want to switch out. With the given EV spread, a Sitrus Berry, and a Bold nature, Rotom-Wash has an easier time against physical attackers such as Mega Salamence and Mamoswine. A Wiki Berry is a riskier alternative, giving Rotom-Wash 50% recovery at 25% health. A more offensive spread is feasible, dealing much more damage with Hydro Pump and Volt Switch. You can use this with Waterium Z to always hit Hydro Pump at least once. Hydro Vortex even has a 56% chance of OHKOing Garchomp. Note that going the more offensive route gives Mega Salamence a good chance of 2HKOing Rotom-Wash with a boosted Double-Edge. Don't be too reckless with Rotom-Wash switch-ins, as even defensive variants take a serious amount of damage from boosted physical attackers such as Garchomp. Switch into threats that can't deal much damage to it such as Mamoswine and Celesteela. You'll need a check to Grass-types such as Ferrothorn, Mega Venusaur, and Tapu Bulu, which are all big threats to Rotom-Wash. While less common, special attacking Dragon-types such as Hydreigon and Latias also have little to fear from Rotom-Wash.

Moves Volt Switch works well with Choice Scarf, often letting Rotom-Wash throw out an attack and switch out without getting hit. Hydro Pump is the standard STAB attack that deals much more damage than Volt Switch. Trick gives Rotom-Wash a weapon against bulky Pokemon such as Tapu Bulu and Ferrothorn. Hidden Power Ice deals serious damage to Garchomp and Mega Salamence, but Will-O-Wisp works great against physical attackers once Choice Scarf has been Tricked. Thunderbolt lets Rotom-Wash stay in, which is helpful against the likes of Celesteela and revenge killing weakened Mega Charizard Y. A Timid nature ensures Choice Scarf Rotom-Wash outspeeds Pheromosa and a Mega Gyarados that has used Dragon Dance once. Grass-types are a huge problem, especially Tapu Bulu, which Rotom-Wash can no longer 2HKO. Mega Venusaur is an even bigger problem, since it's immune to Trick. All teams that use Rotom-Wash must find ways to check them.

With a Choice Specs, Hydro Pump deals much more damage than usual, OHKOing Tapu Koko and 2HKOing Aegislash, Mega Charizard X, and even Porygon2 90% of the time. Volt Switch is important for maintaining momentum against the opponent's switch-ins. Trick allows Rotom-Wash to cripple defensive Pokemon such as Ferrothorn and Chansey. Hidden Power Ice is Rotom-Wash's only way of 2HKOing Tapu Bulu, while Thunderbolt is useful if you want to use an Electric-type attack without switching out, and it OHKOes physically defensive Celesteela, unlike Volt Switch. The given EV spread and nature maximize Rotom-Wash's power and bulk, but a Timid nature with 220 Speed EVs to outspeed Jolly Mega Gyarados before it boosts is also possible. Grass-types are a huge problem for Rotom-Wash, such as Ferrothorn, Mega Venusaur, and Tapu Bulu, so make sure to prepare for these threats.

Moves Volt Switch is Rotom-W's Electric-type STAB move, and it also allows Rotom-W to give momentum to its teammates. Hydro Pump is the only relevant Water-type move that Rotom-W learns and acts as a powerful but unreliable Water-type STAB move, allowing it to punish common Ground-type Pokemon that switch in to absorb its Volt Switch. Will-O-Wisp allows Rotom-W to cripple physically offensive threats, furthering its ability to act as a physically defensive wall. The last move is a choice of the type of recovery Rotom-W uses; Pain Split is dependent upon the foe's HP but has the advantage of being able to reduce the foe's HP, while Rest is dependent upon Rotom-W holding a Chesto Berry, as it puts Rotom-W to sleep for two turns otherwise. Therefore, it is a single-use strategy, whereas Pain Split can be used multiple times throughout a match and is useful for dealing with bulky Pokemon with large HP stats such as Colossoil. Set Details Leftovers should be used in conjunction with Pain Split, while the preferred item for Rotom-W running Rest is Chesto Berry. 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD and a Bold nature are used to maximize Rotom-W's physical bulk while also limiting the damage it takes from entry hazards, although the 8 EVs put into Special Defense could just as easily be put into Speed to outspeed Adamant Crawdaunt. 44 Speed EVs can be used to outspeed Jolly Azumarill, while 128 Speed EVs can be run to outspeed Adamant Bisharp. Rotom-W can also run a mixed defensive spread of 248 HP / 152 Def / 108 SpD, which allows it to tank special attacks from the likes of Mega Manectric, Latios, and Latias more effectively. A specially defensive spread of 248 HP / 8 Def / 252 SpD is also a viable option, as it allows Rotom-W to act as specially defensive pivot. This set can also act as a mixed wall due to Rotom-W's access to Will-O-Wisp. Usage Tips Rotom-W uses its great defensive typing, good bulk, and useful ability to act as physically defensive pivot, taking physical hits from common Pokemon such as Talonflame before using Volt Switch to give momentum to its teammates or spreading burns throughout the opponent's team with Will-O-Wisp. Rotom-W's ability, Levitate, allows it to switch in on Ground-type attacks, but many common Ground-type Pokemon, such as Colossoil and Garchomp, have secondary attacks (in this case, Knock Off and Outrage) that can harm Rotom-W. However, Rotom-W can limit the damage done through the use of Will-O-Wisp and Pain Split, and Hydro Pump hits most Ground-types for great damage, assuming that it doesn't miss. It should also be noted that Pokemon with Mold Breaker such as Excadrill and Mega Gyarados, which might otherwise be checked by Rotom-W, can hit it with a super effective Ground-type attack due to their ability. Through its pivoting, Rotom-W can acquire a lot of damage, particularly if there are any entry hazards on the field, so prudency is required to ensure that Rotom-W does not faint due to the damage it builds up. In the same way, non-Rest variants of Rotom-W do not appreciate being statused, as it wears them down. It is essential that care be taken to prevent Rotom-W from being worn down, because it needs to be healthy to deal with many of the Pokemon it checks. To avoid this, be prudent when using Will-O-Wisp against teams with Magic Bounce users such as Mega Diancie, as well as Rebound Colossoil. In a similar vein, Guts users such as Colossoil can take advantage of Rotom-W's Will-O-Wisp to boost their own Attack. Team Options Rotom-W is an excellent defensive addition to most VoltTurn teams, forming good defensive VoltTurn cores with Landorus-T, Scizor, and Colossoil. Together, Landorus-T and Rotom-W can stop many of the physically offensive threats prominent in the CAP metagame. U-turn Colossoil handles the Electric-types and specially offensive Pokemon such as Mollux that annoy Rotom-W, while Rotom-W handles the bulky Water-types that plague Colossoil. In terms of offensive partners, Mega Beedrill and Talonflame are good picks, as they handle the Grass-types that threaten Rotom-W while it deals with the physically offensive threats such as opposing Talonflame that force them out. Similarly, Pokemon that appreciate Rotom-W's ability to check many common physically offensive threats such as Mega Lopunny are good teammates. Rotom-W can also be a great teammate for wallbreakers like Mega Gardevoir, which are usually frail, as it can utilize its slow Volt Switch to enable them to switch in safely. Likewise, setup sweepers such as Swords Dance Talonflame appreciate Rotom-W's pivoting, as it allows them to set up safely.

Moves Thunderbolt is a reliable STAB attack and hits opposing Water- and Flying-type Pokemon. Hydro Pump is less reliable due to its accuracy, but it's more powerful than Thunderbolt. Will-O-Wisp lets Rotom-W cripple physical attackers and do something to Grass-types that resist Thunderbolt and Hydro Pump. Protect confers decent utility upon Rotom-W by letting it scout and avoid getting hit by multi-hit attacks. Light Screen or Reflect can give Rotom-W's team additional support if Protect isn't worth it. Set Details The given HP and Special Defense EVs allow Rotom-W to survive Mega Charizard Y's Solar Beam from full health, and Rotom-W can get back to a comfortable health range with its Sitrus Berry. The EVs in Defense allow Rotom-W to survive Mega Mawile's maximum Attack Play Rough. One point is invested in Speed because level 50 EV investment leaves Rotom-W with one free point. The rest of the EVs are invested in Special Attack to dish out harder hits with Thunderbolt and Hydro Pump. Speed creep is highly recommended with Rotom-W to win against opposing Rotom-W, but how much is up to you; when choosing how many extra EVs go to Speed, detract them from Special Attack first. If Rotom-W needs more power, switching to a Modest nature and taking EVs out of Special Defense to put into Special Attack is a viable option. Usage Tips Rotom-W can switch in to start spreading burns with Will-O-Wisp and deal decent damage to any foe that doesn't resist its STAB moves. Rotom-W doesn't necessarily need to switch out at a particular part of the game, though reserving it to switch it into a move it resists is really useful. When in doubt, Rotom-W should use Will-O-Wisp, as its targets will likely predict a STAB move, so it'll entice obvious switches. Team Options Most Pokemon appreciate Rotom-W's support. Talonflame makes a great partner, as its ability allows it to pick off Grass-type Pokemon that Rotom-W struggles with, such as Amoonguss. Fake Out users, such as Mega Kangaskhan, can give Rotom-W an extra turn to burn a foe. Earthquake users without Mold Breaker can spam Earthquake without having to worry about damaging Rotom-W. Pokemon that enjoy Rotom-W's resistances to Flying, Ground, Water, Ice, and Fire make great partners.

Moves Volt Switch helps Rotom-W fulfill its role as a pivot by being able to inflict damage, switch out to an appropriate counter, and scout what move the opponent goes for. Hydro Pump is a stronger STAB move that deals with Ground-types that might switch in, such as Landorus and Excadrill. It deals the most damage out of any of Rotom-W's moves and is most suitable for cleaning up late-game, although its poor accuracy is something to watch out for. Trick allows Rotom-W to deter walls that may switch in, such as Chansey and Gastrodon, as Choice Scarf severely limits their utility. Finally, Thunderbolt gives Rotom-W a stronger, reliable Electric-type attack that doesn't force it to switch out, unlike Volt Switch. Set Details Maximum Speed and Special Attack EVs are a must, permitting Rotom-W to make full use of its offensive capabilities. A Timid nature allows Rotom-W to outspeed certain base 80 Speed Choice Scarf Pokemon, such as Gardevoir and Togekiss. Levitate makes Rotom-W capable of switching into Ground-type attacks, allowing it to pivot offensively into Ground-types. Usage Tips Rotom-W should be used early-game to scout the foes' sets with Volt Switch. Hydro Pump or Thunderbolt should not be spammed early-game while Rotom-W's counters are still present, as it can result in a huge loss of momentum. Alternatively, when its check and counters are weakened, Rotom-W can clean up the opponent's team late-game. One of the cons of using a Choice item is becoming setup bait for Pokemon that do not take much damage from its Choice-locked STAB moves. Thus, it is wiser to use Volt Switch in most scenarios. Trick should usually only be used when you are sure that the opponent is going to switch out to the wall that you plan on hindering, as giving a Choice Scarf to the foe isn't always beneficial. Rotom-W should serve as a fast pivot or as a revenge killer, as it lacks power. Because this set lacks defensive investment, it has a harder time switching into attacks. Try to take advantage of Rotom-W's Ground immunity to safely bring it in. Team Options Empoleon is a great teammate for Rotom-W because it takes the Grass-type hits aimed at Rotom-W rather easily. Likewise, Empoleon benefits from Rotom-W's ability to switch into Ground-type attacks. Being able to scout the foes' sets proves to be beneficial to setup sweepers such as Manaphy and Mega Gyarados. It can also weaken the opponent's team to let the aforementioned Pokemon have an easier time sweeping. Rotom-W appreciates the support that wallbreakers such as Azumarill, and Volcanion provide, as punching holes in the opponent's team can permit a late-game sweep. Azumarill breaks through Dragon-types very easily, most of which Rotom-W cannot touch. Volcanion's ability to take down Grass-types is equally appreciated. Choice Scarf Rotom-W makes a great addition to Swift Swim teams as a fast pivot because Swift Swim users, such as Mega Swampert, Seismitoad, and Kingdra, benefit from Rotom-W's ability to scout the opposing team. Politoed is mandatory, as Swift Swim teams need it for its ability, Drizzle. Mega Sharpedo appreciates the support provided by Choice Scarf Rotom-W in scouting and weakening the opposing team to make it easier for Mega Sharpedo to clean up late-game. Rotom-W needs to switch in and out continuously while performing its role as a scout. Thus, it benefits from Starmie's ability to get rid of entry hazards.

Reflect allows Rotom-W's teammates to better take on physical threats such as Mega Gallade and Dragonite, while Light Screen allows them to take on fearsome special wallbreakers such as Latios and Landorus. Thunder Wave halts faster threats such as Nasty Plot Deoxys-S and Manaphy from sweeping the team. Volt Switch allows Rotom-W to bring in teammates to take advantage of limited dual screens turns. The EV investment allows Rotom-W to always survive Choice Specs Latios's Draco Meteor and almost always survive Choice Band Dragonite's Outrage. 0 Speed IVs alongside a Relaxed nature allow Rotom-W to pivot with Volt Switch after the opposing Rotom-W, allowing it to keep momentum. Manaphy and Mega Gyarados are the two prominent setup sweepers on hyper offense Water teams due to their natural bulk and strong setup moves; they can easily turn the tides of a game behind dual screens. Mega Gyarados is particularly helpful in the Psychic and Flying matchups, while Manaphy can take on opposing Water teams with ease due to Energy Ball.

Moves Volt Switch allows Rotom-W to slowly pivot into a wallbreaker, such as Magnezone or Luxray, while also hitting threats like Belly Drum Azumarill and Crawdaunt hard. Hydro Pump is Rotom-W's strongest Water-type STAB move and allows it to hit most Ground-type Pokemon that it checks, such as Landorus-T, Mamoswine, Mega Camerupt, and Hippowdon. Will-O-Wisp lets it cripple physical attackers such as Dragonite, Bisharp, and Landorus-T, all of which are threats to Electric-type teams. Pain Split is Rotom-W's most reliable way to recover HP, but it is very inconsistent. Rest can be used with a Chesto Berry to heal HP back completely and get rid of status conditions; however, it can only be used once, whereas Pain Split can be used multiple times. Set Details Maximum EVs in Defense with a Bold nature allow Rotom-W to switch into physical attackers such as Victini, Mega Swampert, Landorus-T, and Excadrill much more easily. 248 EVs in HP maximize Rotom-W's bulk and also allow it to take less damage from Stealth Rock. 8 EVs in Speed allow it to outspeed Adamant Crawdaunt and standard Belly Drum Azumarill, both of which can be threats once they have set up. Leftovers gives Rotom-W passive recovery, as it is worn down rather easily by Stealth Rock damage and status ailments, reducing its effectiveness. Levitate gives Rotom-W an immunity to Ground-type attacks, which is very important in the Ground matchup. An alternative EV spread of 128 HP / 252 Def / 128 Spe can be used to Speed creep neutral base 70s such as Breloom and Bisharp, although it loses a significant amount of bulk. Usage Tips Rotom-W can be switched into most Pokemon it checks, such as Azumarill and most physical Ground-type Pokemon, but it should be wary of special attackers. While it does not have a terrible Special Defense stat, it takes more damage than it can afford to due to its lack of reliable recovery. Rotom-W should limit the damage it takes, as it needs to be at a decent amount of health to take neutral STAB moves from strong wallbreakers such as Dragonite and Terrakion. Rotom-W should be careful of Mold Breaker users such as Excadrill and Kyurem-B that can break through Levitate and hit it hard with powerful Ground-type moves. It should use Pain Split on walls that have a high HP stat, such as Chansey, to steal more health. It also should take advantage of Volt Switch to break potential Focus Sashes and Sturdy, as well as pivot into its teammates to check other threats that oppose Rotom-W. Rotom-W should not switch into Stealth Rock very often; because of its lack of reliable recovery, it loses a lot of health, which reduces its ability to switch into physical attacks. Rotom-W should also try to avoid status conditions, as they wear it down very quickly. Rotom-W should always use Will-O-Wisp on physical attackers to cripple them so its teammates have an easier time KOing them. Team Options Rotom-W fits well on every Electric build and is a huge part of its Volt Switch core. Wallbreakers such as Choice Specs Magnezone, Choice Specs Raikou, and Choice Band Luxray appreciate Rotom-W's slow Volt Switch, which allows them to come into threats without taking damage. Zapdos is a great defensive complement to Rotom-W, being able to take special hits and get rid of Stealth Rock with Defog. Zapdos can also whittle down walls that Rotom-W can't touch, like Gastrodon and Seismitoad, with Toxic. It appreciates having Rotom-W to switch into Ice- and most Rock-type attacks, too. Mega Ampharos also pairs well with Rotom-W; its defensive set complements it in alleviating the pressure of being the only physically defensive Pokemon, and it is a good switch-in to Grass-type moves. The RestTalk variant also acts as a great status absorber for Rotom-W.

Moves Volt Switch is Rotom-W's main STAB move, allowing it to gain momentum for the team and pivot into an appropriate check. Will-O-Wisp allows Rotom-W to inflict burn on the foe and hinder physical attackers, such as Mega Gallade, that may threaten it or the team. Hydro Pump is a strong secondary STAB move that also hits Ground-types that may try to switch in on a Volt Switch, such as Mold Breaker Excadrill. Pain Split can be used when Rotom-W is worn down to regain some HP, but it tends to be very inconsistent due to being dependent on the foe's HP. Set Details 248 HP EVs, maximum Defense EVs, and a Bold nature let Rotom-W take physical hits as best as it can while taking less passive damage from Stealth Rock and status. Leftovers is Rotom-W's best recovery option throughout the match, as it lacks a reliable way to regain its health besides Pain Split, which is situational. 8 Speed EVs let Rotom-W outspeed and OHKO Adamant Crawdaunt, which may otherwise threaten it. Levitate makes Rotom-W a good switch-in to Ground-type moves, something most Water teams lack. Usage Tips Rotom-W can be used early-game to scout and gain momentum with Volt Switch. It can spam Will-O-Wisp, as almost nothing likes to switch in besides Guts users, such as Heracross and Conkeldurr, or Fire-types, such as Mega Charizard Y. However, Rotom-W should be protected from status, as that wears it down very easily. It should avoid Knock Off, as Leftovers is its main method of recovery because of how unreliable Pain Split is. Rotom-W needs to watch out for Mold Breaker users and their variants, such as Kyurem-B and Excadrill, which can negate Levitate and hit it with strong Ground-type coverage in the form of Earth Power and Earthquake, respectively. Rotom-W should be switched in on Pokemon that it can pivot on, such as Volcanion and Garchomp. Even though it has decent Special Defense, this set does not appreciate getting worn down by special attacks. Thus, it is generally wise to switch out against strong special attackers. Due to its lack of recovery, Rotom-W is an unreliable check to wallbreakers and should almost never switch directly into them, as the likes of Mega Heracross and Mega Charizard Y can easily break it with two attacks. Pain Split is best used against walls with a large amount of HP; in fact, using it on a full HP Chansey can actually restore Rotom-W to maximum health. Rotom-W does not appreciate Stealth Rock damage, as it usually switches in and out quite often. If it loses too much health, it fails to wall most of the Pokemon that it is supposed to. Thus, keeping Stealth Rock away is a wise idea. Team Options Empoleon is a great partner, as it is able to take Grass-type moves and most special attacks with ease. It benefits from Rotom-W's immunity to Ground-type moves that threaten it. Rotom-W's physical bulk helps Empoleon, as Empoleon does not like staying in on most physical hits. As Rotom-W forces a lot of switches, Stealth Rock on the opposing side of the field is very helpful. Likewise, Rotom-W feels the need to switch in and out quite a lot, and Empoleon and Tentacruel's ability to get rid of Stealth Rock is highly appreciated. Tentacruel also has a great Special Defense stat to sponge special hits that threaten Rotom-W, Toxic Spikes, which is extremely useful to take full advantage of the switches Rotom-W forces, and a neutrality to Grass-type moves. On the other hand, Rotom-W takes most Ground- and Electric-type hits with ease. Setup sweepers, such as Mega Gyarados and Manaphy, appreciate the slow Volt Switch and Will-O-Wisp Rotom-W provides, the latter of which hinders physical attackers, making it easier to set up on them. Volt Switch makes Rotom-W a premier pivot and scout, something that wallbreakers such as Azumarill, Mega Sharpedo, Crawdaunt, and Volcanion appreciate. Volcanion also benefits from Rotom-W's immunity to Ground-type moves, while it can take out Grass-type Pokemon that threaten Rotom-W. Swampert and Lanturn are great for their Electric immunity, as Rotom-W's lack of special bulk makes it incapable of switching into common special Electric-type attacks. Slowbro is another great partner, as it is able to take on Choice Band Dragonite, which is one of the few Pokemon that can threaten Rotom-W.

Moves Volt Switch allows Rotom-W to chip away at the foe and keep up momentum while pivoting out. Scald is Rotom-W's secondary STAB option that hits relatively hard and has a 30% chance to burn, crippling many physical foes. It also hits Ground-types hard, which is important because they are immune to Volt Switch. Nuzzle paralyzes the foe and in many cases cripples it for the rest of the match, while Will-O-Wisp, although less accurate, can be used to better deal with physical attackers. Pain Split is Rotom-W's main form of recovery, which works well when paired with Nuzzle because after the foe has been paralyzed, Rotom-W can easily outspeed it and heal itself before the foe attacks. Rest is another recovery option that also cures status, and it is not dependent on the foe's health. However, it is mainly has one-time use. Set Details Levitate, Rotom-W's only ability, makes it immune to Ground-type moves, which would otherwise be a weakness. Leftovers allows Rotom-W to regain health each turn, helping it take more hits. Chesto Berry should be used if Rest is chosen instead of Pain Split, waking Rotom-W up immediately and serving as a one-time full restore. A Bold nature helps to increase Rotom-W's physical bulk, and it works well when paired with burn support and maximum HP EVs. 8 Speed EVs can be run to allow Rotom-W to outspeed Adamant Crawdaunt, while 128 would make it outpace Adamant Breloom and Bisharp. An alternative spread with an investment of 252 EVs in Special Defense instead of Defense and a Calm nature allows Rotom-W to take special hits as well. Usage Tips Rotom-W has the bulk to switch in on Pokemon it checks such as Landorus-T, Thundurus, Tornadus-T, and Heatran. Its access to a slow Volt Switch allows it to pivot into a teammate that can either KO the foe or set up on it. Choose which status move you want to use on the foe and decide which will support your team better. If you are facing a strong physical attacker, a burn is beneficial; if you struggle with faster foes, paralysis might support you better. Also make sure to be careful when using Scald, as it could inadvertently burn something you would rather have paralyzed. Avoid accidentally healing the foe with Pain Split; in particular, watch out for the opponent switching to a weakened member of their team. Remember that Pain Split is based on the total HP number, not percentage. Team Options Steel- and Flying-types, such as Ferrothorn, Heatran, Scizor, Landorus-T, and Tornadus-T make for good teammates for Rotom-W, as they are able to switch into or eliminate Grass-types that trouble it. In return, Rotom-W can eliminate the foes they struggle with. Fire- and Grass-types have good synergy with Rotom-W and allow for a Fire / Water / Grass core. Mega Charizard X, Heatran, Ferrothorn, and Celebi are examples of good teammates. Entry hazard setters such as Garchomp, Heatran, and Tyranitar are good options as well, setting up entry hazards such as Stealth Rock and Spikes and helping to wear down the foes over the length of the battle. While Rotom-W isn't weak to entry hazards, it still appreciates hazard removal because it will switch in multiple times and doesn't like taking the damage each time. Defog Gyarados, Landorus-T, and Rapid Spin Porygon2 and Chansey make good teammates. Pokemon such as U-turn Landorus-T, Thundurus-T, Scizor, and Parting Shot Sableye work well with Rotom-W, as they are able to help keep up momentum. Landorus-T makes for a particularly good partner for Rotom-W because they cover each other's weaknesses, and Landorus-T can set and remove hazards for Rotom-W. The two can also keep up momentum together with their VoltTurn combination. Finally, wallbreakers such as Mega Charizard X, Mega Scizor, Mega Lopunny, Thundurus, and Kyurem-B make for good teammates by taking down the special walls that Rotom-W otherwise struggles with.

Moves Volt Switch allows Rotom-W to switch out to maintain momentum. Origin Pulse is Rotom-W's main STAB move that hits the foe hard. Water Spout is an option that hits harder than Origin Pulse when Rotom-W is near full health. However, Rotom-W sometimes struggles in STABmons due to the amount of priority in the metagame. Thunderbolt is an option for a stronger Electric-type STAB move that hits harder than Volt Switch without shuffling Rotom-W out. It also handles Substitute users such as Keldeo and Gyarados easier. Trick allows Rotom-W to switch its item with the foe, which can really cripple bulky foes like Chansey and Porygon2 by locking them into one move. Scald is another option to use to try to get a quick burn on a physical attacker, also crippling it. Set Details Choice Scarf allows Rotom-W to make up for its below-average Speed and attack first most of the time. A Timid nature paired with maximum EVs in Speed and a Choice Scarf serve to make Rotom-W as fast as possible. Maximum EVs in Special Attack allow it to hit as hard as possible. Levitate, Rotom-W's only ability, is used to give it an immunity to Ground-types, leaving it with just one weakness. Usage Tips With Choice Scarf, prediction is key. If you predict the opponent will switch into a specially defensive wall, use Trick. If you think a Ground-type is coming in, Origin Pulse works well; otherwise, Volt Switch is good for scouting, maintaining momentum, and getting chip damage. However, don't be afraid to switch out manually if you predict your opponent will switch. Don't use Volt Switch or Thunderbolt into a Ground-type, which would allow the opponent an easy setup opportunity. Choice Scarf Rotom-W works best as a revenge killer or when it is brought in with a slow Volt Switch or U-turn. This set also has a surprise factor, as Choice Scarf isn't generally expected. Team Options Wallbreakers such as Tornadus, Mega Lopunny, and Mega Scizor make for good teammates, as they are able to eliminate the walls that Rotom-W would otherwise struggle with. Entry hazard setters such as Landorus-T, Garchomp, and Hippowdon work well by laying down hazards such as Spikes and Stealth Rock that weaken the foes as they switch in. Other Pokemon that can form a VoltTurn core such as Landorus-T, Tornadus-T, Parting Shot Sableye, and Scizor make for good partners, as they are able to help keep up momentum. Scizor, especially Choice Band variants, works well with Rotom-W because they resist each other's weaknesses and form a powerful VoltTurn combination. Latios, Latias, and Kyurem-B checks, such as Ferrothorn, Weavile, and Tyranitar, make for good teammates, as these powerful Dragon-types can give Rotom-W trouble. Pursuit users such as Weavile and Tyranitar work well to take advantage of the Volt Switches. Fire- and Grass-types have good synergy with Rotom-W and allow for a Fire / Water / Grass core. Mega Charizard X, Heatran, Ferrothorn, and Celebi are some Pokemon that can be in such a core.

Moves Hydro Pump is a standard move on Rotom-W, allowing it to OHKO Mega Diancie, Landorus-T, and sometimes Heatran, depending on the latter's EV spread. Thunderbolt is a more accurate STAB move to be locked into if Rotom-W is in a position to clean up, and it also helps deal with Water-types. Volt Switch allows Rotom-W to get more momentum if you do not want to lock it in into Hydro Pump or Thunderbolt. The move also chips the Dragon- and Grass-types that will switch in, such as Latios and Amoonguss. Trick allows Rotom-W to get rid of its Choice Scarf and cripple a foe with it, which makes it incredibly useful for dealing with utility Pokemon such as Cresselia and Amoonguss. Will-O-Wisp and Thunder Wave are also great moves to cripple foes. Will-O-Wisp is effective versus physical attackers such as Mega Kangaskhan and Mega Metagross, while Thunder Wave cripples fast threats such as Latios and Serperior, which Rotom-W normally can't threaten, by massively slowing them down. Set Details The main reason to use Choice Scarf on Rotom-W is to be able to outspeed Landorus-T. With the listed EV spread, Rotom-W can KO Landorus-T with Hydro Pump before it moves. Rotom-W also outspeeds Deoxys-A and +1 Blaziken and can burn Mega Kangaskhan and Mega Metagross with Will-O-Wisp before they are able to move, which it wouldn't be able to do without a Choice Scarf. Usage Tips Rotom-W is a fantastic lead in a lot of situations, being able to either deal heavy damage, cripple foes with status moves, or use Volt Switch to gain momentum. It also has a good matchup against other common leads such as Landorus-T and Mega Kangaskhan. Rotom-W functions decently well as a late-game sweeper if all of its checks are gone thanks to its high Speed. Levitate allows it to switch into Ground-type moves such as Earthquake. You should only bring this Rotom-W set in on resisted hits or free switches, as it's much frailer than its defensive sets. Trick can entirely cripple an opponent's utility Pokemon such as Cresselia or Amoonguss by locking it into one move. You can also use Trick on Trick Room attackers such as Aegislash to be able to underspeed them in Trick Room. Removing Rotom-W's Choice Scarf helps it further by allowing it to switch moves. Do not use Trick on Pokemon that have a Mega Stone, such as Kangaskhan and Charizard, as Trick will simply fail and Rotom-W will be vulnerable the next turn, forcing you to either use Trick again or switch out. Being locked into a status move can quickly make you lose offensive presence and can leave Rotom-W a vulnerable target. Use Volt Switch if you want to get a quick KO and immediately switch out as well, giving you a lot of momentum, or when you want to get chip damage off against resistant switch-ins such as Amoonguss and Latios. If you have multiple moves that can net a KO, look at your opponent's team and make sure to choose the best move to lock Rotom-W into. Team Options Good teammates for Rotom-W would be Pokemon that appreciate its ability to pivot well to switch them in often, such as Landorus-T and Scrafty. Pokemon that have a poor matchup versus Landorus-T such as Mega Diancie and Mega Charizard Y appreciate Rotom-W's ability to deal with it easily. Considering Dragon-types like Hydreigon and Latios resist Rotom-W's attacks, you should use a Fairy-type such as Mega Gardevoir or Sylveon to KO them easily. They can also KO Kyurem-B through its Substitute, which it sets up freely against Rotom-W. Fighting-type Pokemon such as Virizion and Terrakion are good at taking down Hydreigon and Kyurem-B as well. Ice-types such as Kyurem-B and Weavile get rid of both Grass-types and Dragon-types; however, Kyurem-B has to look out for Dragon-type attacks itself because it's slower than Latios and Hydreigon, which is is a problem unless Kyurem-B has a Substitute up or your team has good speed control. You could also add Fire-types such as Heatran, Talonflame, and Volcarona to deal with Grass-types such as Amoonguss and Serperior easily. Flying-types such as Togekiss do this as well, with Togekiss also beating Dragon-types.

Moves This is by far Rotom-W's most consistent set, doing an amazing job at checking or countering various threats in DOU. Hydro Pump is a solid STAB move that allows Rotom-W to score OHKOs on Landorus-T, Mega Diancie, and offensive variants of Heatran. Thunderbolt is usually used to hit Water-types that resist Hydro Pump as well as Pokemon which take roughly equal damage from both attacks, as it is also more reliable than Hydro Pump due to its better accuracy. Will-O-Wisp is a great way to deal with physical attackers, allowing Rotom-W to check Mega Kangaskhan and Mega Metagross among others. It also gives Rotom-W a way to punish its most common switch-in, Amoonguss. However, Thunder Wave is great speed control, and especially important if you plan to use Rotom-W as a rain check, since it survives Ludicolo's Giga Drain and can paralyze it back. Protect keeps Rotom-W alive, stalls field conditions, and scouts for attacks. Set Details With this EV spread, Rotom-W always survives Mega Kangaskhan's Fake Out into Return, two Mega Metagross Zen Headbutts, or two Amoonguss Giga Drains. If you're using Rotom-W on a Tailwind team, you should move 12 Special Attack EVs to Speed to outspeed Choice Scarf Landorus-T in Tailwind. Sitrus Berry is by far the most consistent item option for Rotom-W, but ChestoRest is another option for greater healing, though at the risk of not running Protect. Usage Tips Rotom-W should be played as a bulky offensive glue Pokemon. This means that it should be switching into opposing threats, usually Water-, Flying-, or Ground-types, and either dealing damage or spreading status. Thanks to its amazing typing, it does this fairly reliably. Rotom-W also does a great job of tanking SlideQuake, which is a very popular coverage combination on Ground-types. The only Pokemon you should really fear with Rotom-W out are Grass- and Dragon-types. Threats with Lum Berry, such as Ferrothorn and Garchomp, like to lure Rotom-W and hit really hard. Make sure Rotom-W stays alive if the opponent is holding back Talonflame or Heatran, because they can be really threatening late-game if Rotom-W is taken out. Team Options Fire-types such as Heatran, Talonflame, and Charizard are arguably the best partners to Rotom-W, as they benefit from having a partner that can sponge threatening Ground- and Rock-type attacks, and they can take out the Grass-types that threaten Rotom-W. Steel-types such as Mega Scizor, Mega Lucario, Heatran, and Aegislash complement Rotom-W well defensively, as they resist Dragon- and Grass-type attacks, and Rotom-W resists Fire-type attacks. Ground-types appreciate Rotom-W as a partner, as they can freely use Earthquake beside it. Mamoswine is especially relevant here, as it can snipe Dragon- and Grass-types with ease.

Moves Thunderbolt and Hydro Pump give Rotom-W its key STAB coverage. Will-O-Wisp neutralizes most physical attackers. Protect prevents double targeting and allows Rotom-W to avoid taking damage for a turn while its teammate deals damage. It's worth mentioning that Rotom-W is one of the few Pokemon that can afford to skimp out on Protect thanks to its typing and bulk. If your team's Sitrus Berry is already in use, Chesto Berry with Rest can work as an alternative. Set Details The EVs allow Rotom-W to survive Mega Mawile's Play Rough, or two if it's been burned. The rest of the EVs are invested in Special Attack to give Rotom-W some solid offensive presence. However, most Rotom-W run more Speed EVs to Speed creep, so it's highly recommended you take some EVs out of Special Attack and put them into Speed. If you're interested in outspeeding certain threats, 132 Speed EVs let Rotom-W outspeed Adamant nature maximum Speed Bisharp so Rotom-W can burn Bisharp before it has the chance to attack. 188 Speed EVs will let Rotom-W outspeed every neutral-natured Heatran and Hydro Pump it before it can use Substitute. If you find Modest's extra Special Attack unneeded and would prefer to survive some big hits, 252 HP / 148 SpD with a Calm nature can be used to survive Mega Charizard Y's Solar Beam. 252 HP / 164 SpD with a Calm nature will always survive Modest Specs Hydreigon's Draco Meteor. Sitrus Berry is important, as it gives Rotom-W more longevity. It also makes investing to live certain hits more valuable, as Rotom-W will survive the hit, then get boosted into a more comfortable health range. Usage Tips Rotom-W is a fairly simple Pokemon to use: switch it into one of its many resistances and either start using Will-O-Wisp or attacking. If Rotom-W's up against something that can't touch it, such as a Landorus-T or most Water-types, they're likely not going to stay in. In this scenario, try to predict the switch and use Will-O-Wisp instead. Team Options Just about everything appreciates Rotom-W's partnership. Rotom-W is great with Earthquake users such as Landorus-T and Garchomp. Rotom-W also pairs well with anything that likes a Flying-, Ground-, or Fire-type switch-in such as Amoonguss, Metagross, and Mega Mawile. Pokemon that dislike bulky Water-types, such as Landorus-T and Talonflame, enjoy Rotom-W being able to Thunderbolt them away.

Moves Hydro Pump is Rotom-W's strongest attack, dealing with Mamoswine and defensive Talonflame super effectively. Volt Switch is perfect for scouting the Pokemon your opponent has chosen and getting favorable switch-ins. Will-O-Wisp cripples physical attackers and lets Rotom-W have a chance at checking Pokemon it'd otherwise struggle against such as Mega Mawile. However, Thunder Wave is a reasonable alternative to support slower teammates and cripple Serperior switch-ins. Thunderbolt is a great, reliable secondary STAB attack for finishing off foes, though Discharge can also work with Thunder Wave if you'd like an increased chance to paralyze foes. If your team is especially worried about Mega Salamence, Hidden Power Ice allows Rotom-W to check it in emergencies, and it also allows it to nail Garchomp and weakened Dragonite outside of Will-O-Wisp. Set Details Maximum investment in HP and Defense allows Rotom-W to check physical attackers such as Talonflame and Mega Salamence as well as possible, while Sitrus Berry turns a lot of potential 2HKOs into 3HKOs. A more offensive EV spread of 252 HP / 4 Def / 252 SpA with a Modest nature also works, allowing Rotom-W to perform better against Suicune. However, note that Rotom-W will have a much more difficult time checking physical attackers. Usage Tips Usually, you'll want to use Rotom-W as a check for a large variety of physical attackers, such as Mamoswine and Talonflame. However, note that Rotom-W should only attempt to check Mega Kangaskhan in emergency situations, as Double-Edge does around 80% to Rotom-W, meaning it 2HKOes even through Will-O-Wisp. Note that while Rotom-W may seem like a great check to Suicune, it loses to Calm Mind + Rest Suicune, as well as the uncommon Mirror Coat. Make sure to take advantage of Volt Switch as much as possible, since it does a great job of scouting your opponent's Pokemon choices, breaks Focus Sashes for teammates, and gets free switches for your teammates. Team Options Grass-types such as Ferrothorn, Breloom, Serperior, and Mega Venusaur give Rotom-W serious problems, and special attacking Dragon-types such as Hydreigon and Latios also tend to shrug it off as long as it isn't carrying Thunder Wave. This makes Mega Salamence an excellent teammate, as its Aerilate-boosted Return makes quick work of Grass-types (though watch out for Focus Sash from Breloom and Serperior), and it can even elect to run Outrage to smash through slower Dragon-types, while Rotom-W can deal with Mamoswine. In a similar manner, Talonflame does an excellent job of taking out Grass-types, while Rotom-W cripples Pokemon that use Rock-type attacks to deal with Talonflame, such as Hippowdon, Garchomp, and Tyranitar. A Mega Venusaur of your own does a great job of checking most Grass-types, while Rotom-W handles most Flying-types very well. Heatran handles most Grass-types and Choice item Dragon-types as long as it avoids Hidden Power Ground, while Rotom-W provides a vital Water- and Ground-type switch-in. Scizor and Aegislash can handle many Grass-types and Choice item Dragons, while Rotom-W provides a Fire and Ground switch-in. While Blaziken is too frail to act as a switch-in to Rotom-W's checks, it can revenge kill most Grass-types and Hydreigon, and in return, Rotom-W checks Talonflame for it. Finally, if you're especially worried about Calm Mind Suicune, Serperior can set up by using Leaf Storm on it, while Raikou can set up Calm Mind alongside it.

Moves Volt Switch is the move Rotom-W will be using the most, allowing it to switch out before it gets attacked and scout what Pokemon the opponent has chosen in favorable matchups. Hydro Pump is Rotom-W's most powerful STAB move, which is perfect for dealing with Ground-types such as Excadrill, Mamoswine, and Landorus-T. Trick is a great move to use against defensive Pokemon, severely limiting their utility with a Choice Scarf. It can also be a decent emergency move to limit certain offensive Pokemon such as Garchomp if needed. Hidden Power Ice deals a lot of damage to Garchomp and Mega Salamence, with Timid Rotom-W having an 87% chance of OHKOing 4 HP Mega Salamence after Stealth Rock damage. However, if you prefer emergency crippling options, Will-O-Wisp can be a nasty surprise for faster physical attackers such as Mega Kangaskhan. Being locked into Will-O-Wisp isn't great, but it can become especially useful if Rotom-W has Tricked away its Choice Scarf. Finally, Thunderbolt gives Rotom-W a reliable Electric-type attack that doesn't force it to switch out, and unlike Volt Switch, it guarantees an OHKO on offensive Talonflame. Thunderbolt is particularly useful for revenge killing weakened Mega Charizard Y. Set Details A Timid nature with the above EV spread allows Rotom-W to outspeed Mega Gyarados even after it uses Dragon Dance, while the HP and Defense EVs allow Rotom-W to avoid the 2HKO from Choice Band Talonflame as long as Stealth Rock isn't set up. If you care more about power and not about outspeeding Jolly Mega Gyarados, consider using Modest, which allows Rotom-W to OHKO Dragonite and Mega Salamence after Stealth Rock with Hidden Power Ice. However, note that Modest needs maximum Speed to outspeed Mega Manectric, meaning it risks getting 2HKOed by Choice Band Talonflame. Usage Tips Prepare to use Volt Switch as much as possible, as it allows Rotom-W to get a chance to attack without suffering massive damage, and it works as an excellent way to scout your opponent's Pokemon choices. While Rotom-W is capable of revenge killing threats, they'll usually need to be softened up first, so moves like Hydro Pump are best saved for later in the game. If you want to truly take advantage of Trick, try to get Rotom-W in on foes that it is naturally faster than such as Hippowdon. This hides Rotom-W's true purpose, allowing it to get a surprise revenge kill or surprise Trick in when the opponent least expects it. Just note that switching Rotom-W in recklessly isn't a wise idea, as this Rotom-W is fairly frail, so you may want to stick to switching Rotom-W into resisted hits or Ground-type attacks. Team Options Having a check to Grass-types is necessary, as Choice Scarf Rotom-W is especially weak to the likes of Mega Venusaur, Serperior, Breloom, and Ferrothorn. Additionally, Hydreigon and Latios are even bigger problems than normal. Mega Salamence is an excellent teammate, taking down Grass-types, and even potentially taking down non-Choice Scarf Dragon-types if using a Dragon-type attack, while in return, Rotom-W can take Ice-type attacks for Mega Salamence and threaten to cripple defensive Pokemon with Trick. Talonflame doesn't do as well against Dragon-types, but it deals with Grass-types fairly well, except for Focus Sash Breloom. Mega Altaria can handle Dragon-types fairly well and can help against Ferrothorn and Serperior. Heatran doesn't do great against Hydreigon, but it's a reasonable check to Serperior and Ferrothorn. Consider pairing Rotom-W with sweepers that benefit from walls such as Cresselia and Porygon2 getting crippled. Good teammates to consider include Mega Kangaskhan, Garchomp, and Mega Gyarados. To make the deal even sweeter, you might want to consider Pokemon that use Substitute well, such as Aegislash, Gliscor, and Raikou.

Moves Hydro Pump is Choice Specs Rotom-W's most powerful attack, making up for its mediocre Special Attack by 2HKOing important threats such as Aegislash and Mega Charizard X and even having a 90% chance to 2HKO Porygon2. Volt Switch does an excellent job of scouting your opponent's Pokemon choices, and it does a good amount of damage with Choice Specs. Trick is instrumental to this set's success, allowing Rotom-W to cripple defensive Pokemon such as Ferrothorn, Cresselia, Chansey, and Porygon2. Thunderbolt gives Rotom-W a reliable way to 2HKO a large number of threats, and it allows Rotom-W to check Calm Mind Suicune. If your team is more worried about Dragon-types, Hidden Power Ice is an acceptable alternative, 2HKOing Hydreigon and OHKOing Mega Salamence and Garchomp. It also gives Rotom-W a move to use against Serperior and Breloom switch-ins. Set Details Maximum Special Attack investment allows Rotom-W to actually hit hard, while maximum HP investment lets Rotom-W survive important hits such as avoiding a 2HKO from Choice Band Talonflame's Brave Bird, and it also makes Rotom-W a more reliable check to Mamoswine. If you prefer Speed, you can run a spread of 76 HP / 20 Def / 198 SpA / 4 SpD / 220 Spe to outspeed Jolly Gyarados and still avoid a 2HKO from Choice Band Talonflame while Stealth Rock isn't up. If you plan on using Hidden Power Ice for the faster spread, move the 4 Special Defense EVs to Defense. Usage Tips Use Volt Switch as frequently as you can. Most Ground-types wouldn't dare switch into Rotom-W, making it an excellent scout. If you predict a Dragon-type such as Hydreigon or Latios coming in, however, use Hidden Power Ice to deal a severe amount of damage. If you really want to make Rotom-W an effective lure against defensive Pokemon, you may want to consider using double switches to prevent opponents from knowing it's holding Choice Specs. This way, you can pull off a surprise Trick against defensive Pokemon, crippling them. Finally, note that even with maximum HP, Rotom-W isn't particularly bulky, so don't switch it in too recklessly. Team Options Grass-types such as Mega Venusaur and Serperior are huge problems for Rotom-W to face, and Ferrothorn is also a huge threat if Rotom-W doesn't cripple it with Trick. Special attacking Dragon-types like Hydreigon and Latios are only threatened by Hidden Power Ice, as they can even switch into Trick. Since Rotom-W can use Volt Switch so well, you can get away with just carrying checks to these threats. Mega Salamence is a particularly excellent teammate, as it is able to smash through Grass-types with Aerilate-boosted Double-Edge, can roast Ferrothorn with Fire Blast, and even has the option to defeat Hydreigon and Latios with Dragon-type attacks (though watch out for Choice Scarf). Talonflame performs similarly well against Grass-types, but if you're especially worried about Dragon-types, Choice Scarf Garchomp and Latios can easily revenge kill them. Mega Altaria can also work well (provided that you get it in before it gets hit by a Dragon-type attack), as Pixilate-boosted Hyper Voice and Return deal massive damage to opposing Dragon-types, and it can use Fire Blast to defeat Ferrothorn. While Heatran struggles against Hydreigon and Mega Venusaur, it does an adequate job of handling Serperior and Ferrothorn while also baiting Ground-type attacks for Rotom-W. Finally, while not a direct check to most of Rotom-W's problems, Mega Gengar is an excellent teammate, since Shadow Tag allows it to pick off threats Rotom-W has weakened with repeated Volt Switches. Since Choice Specs Rotom-W is slow for an offensive Pokemon, consider giving it paralysis support, as many threats will find it hard to revenge kill it when they're slower. Cresselia, Ferrothorn, and Porygon2 are among the most reliable users of Thunder Wave to consider. Porygon2 and Ferrothorn in particular make for good lures for Blaziken, a dangerous threat that will fall to Rotom-W when paralyzed. For more risky offensive users of paralysis, consider Thundurus and Serperior. If you're willing to roll the dice, you can use Klefki as well, which has priority Thunder Wave like Thundurus and provides a Dragon-type immunity, while Rotom-W gives a valuable Ground-type immunity and Fire-type resistance. Since Rotom-W is one of the best users of Volt Switch in the game, you may want to consider using it with other users of U-turn or Volt Switch to maximize momentum gained from being a step ahead of the opponent. Choice Scarf Landorus-T is one of the best U-turn users around, having the bonus of switching into Excadrill's Earthquake for Rotom-W. Choice Band Scizor works as a slower alternative that can threaten Grass-types pretty well, has a massively powerful U-turns, and can help deal with Sylveon. While it shares the same typing as Rotom-W, Mega Manectric is useful for its ability to deal with most Grass-types thanks to Flamethrower and Overheat and use Intimidate to soften blows for Rotom-W, while Rotom-W provides a valuable Ground-type immunity.

Choice Rotom-W is the most straightforward way to use Rotom-W, as it simply aims to either outspeed or overwhelm the opponent with its powerful STAB moves. The choice of item (no pun intended) is mostly speed versus power. When equipped with a Choice Scarf, Rotom-W's wash cycles shoot up from 151 to 227 RPM, allowing Rotom-W to wash away tough stains such as weakened Dragon-types and Terrakion, not to mention those tough Focus Sash users that are a real pain to get out of your blue jeans. On the other hand, when equipped with Choice Specs, Rotom-W gains the power to wring out the annoying 252 HP Tyranitar, freeing your undergarments from that awful chafing Sand Stream 70% of the time, assuming Rotom-W has a Modest nature and sandstorm is in effect. If that weren't enough, a Modest Rotom-W's Thunderbolt absolutely electrifies 252 HP Jellicent, max SpD Togekiss, 4 HP Kingdra, and any Politoed foolish enough to even step out of the swamp without a Wacan Berry. Hidden Power and Trick are mostly fillers, though that doesn't necessarily mean they aren't useful. Trick may be a quirky move to use in VGC, but it discourages Protect, cripples Pokemon that can't use Rotom's item, and scouts what set (or at least what item) the opponent has elected to use. Hidden Power Ice is useful for the ever-present Dragon-types, though Hidden Power Fire is usable if you feel your team is too vulnerable to Ferrothorn, Abomasnow, or hail in general. On its own, Choice Rotom-W will often find itself in a messy situation. As it is unable to use Protect, Follow Me users, such as Togekiss, make excellent teammates to redirect any Grass-type moves aimed at Rotom-W. Fake Out users can also buy Rotom a little time to shuffle items or clean the opponent's clock with its mighty Hydro Pump. Toxicroak is a good teammate in this regard, as it not only takes very little damage from Grass-types, but also knocks in heads with Poison Jab or Ice Punch. If you're feeling gutsy, you can even elect to target Toxicroak with Rotom-W's Hydro Pump to restore its HP. Politoed's everlasting rain and Rotom-W's Hydro Pump is a match seemingly made in the heavens, and while it's raining, you can elect to use Thunder to secure OHKOs, but wait, there's more! Thunder even comes with the added bonus of a 30% chance of paralysis, and you won't have to worry about the rare-but-annoying Moody Smeargle or Minimize users quite as much. Lastly, Garchomp, Metagross, and general Earthquake users like having Rotom around so they can spam Earthquake to their hearts' content while Rotom smites anything that is immune.

This set takes advantage of Rotom-W's incredible power and bulk, also allowing it to act as a supporter with Thunder Wave. Thunderbolt and Hydro Pump are Rotom-W's primary STAB attacks, doing solid damage to opponents which do not resist them. However, you may opt to use Discharge over Thunderbolt, as it hits both opponents and has a higher chance to inflict paralysis upon the foe. Be aware, however, that Discharge will also hit your teammate, and it is thus recommended that Rotom-W's teammate is either immune to Discharge, or packs Protect. Thunder Wave allows Rotom-W to instantly paralyze anything that is not immune to it, enabling it and its teammate to outspeed their opponents without any EV investment. Hidden Power Fire and Hidden Power Ice are also options for the third moveslot; the former gives it a way of dealing with Abomasnow and Ferrothorn who otherwise both wall this set, while the latter hits the omnipresent Dragon-type enemies super effectively. Protect is a staple in the VGC metagame and allows Rotom-W to avoid taking damage while its teammate takes out the threat. A Modest nature and 252 Special Attack EVs allow Rotom-W to hit its enemies as hard as possible, while 252 HP EVs maximize Rotom-W's bulk, increasing its longevity on the field. Investment in Speed is unnecessary for Rotom-W as it will outspeed nothing significant, and is thus better off maximizing its bulk. Rotom-W has excellent synergy with Ground-type Pokemon such as Mamoswine and Garchomp, taking advantage of their immunity to Electric-type attacks to spam Discharge while allowing them to do the same with Earthquake, thanks to Levitate. Mamoswine also eliminates the Grass- and Dragon-types which wall Rotom-W with its powerful STAB Ice-type attacks, making a particularly good partner.

Thunderbolt is accurate and hits many targets such as Metagross and Thundurus for neutral damage, while Hydro Pump hits some top metagame threats such as Heatran and Tyranitar for super effective damage. Light Screen and Will-O-Wisp allow Rotom-Wash to mitigate damage from special and physical attacks, respectively. The Special Defense investment lets Rotom-Wash survive a Dragon Gem-boosted Draco Meteor from Timid Latios. The remaining EVs are dumped into Defense, giving Rotom-Wash great odds to survive a Hammer Arm from Conkeldurr, but they can be meaningfully allocated into Speed to try and outspeed other moderately slow Pokemon like Cresselia, Heatran, and opposing Rotom-Wash or invested into Special Attack to maximize its chance to OHKO Tornadus with Thunderbolt. Other Options Rotom-Wash's base 105 Special Attack can be leveraged on an offensive set with either a Gem or Choice item. Rotom-Wash seldom carries Protect, making it prone to being double targeted. Adding Protect can catch opponents off-guard and flip matchups, buying a turn for Rotom-Wash's partner to eliminate a threatening Amoongus, Latios, or Conkeldurr. Rotom-Wash's low base HP makes it an ideal user of Pain Split, which greatly heals off common Pokemon with a high base HP stat such as Cresselia, Amoonguss, and Tyranitar. Reflect allows Rotom-Wash to reduce physical damage taken without having to rely on the often inconsistent Will-O-Wisp. Electroweb lets Rotom-Wash provide speed control for its team. Common Partners Metagross and Rotom-Wash cover each other's weaknesses, with Metagross removing Amoonguss for Rotom-Wash and Rotom-Wash checking Heatran and Landorus-T for Metagross. They also have perfect typing synergy, as Metagross resists Grass-type attacks, while Rotom-Wash is immune to Ground-type attacks and resists Fire-type attacks. Cresselia and Rotom-Wash have neutral matchups against most leads. The pair can be comfortably lead and trade favorably against common Pokemon like Metagross, Thundurus, and Landorus-T, making for a safe and reliable start to a match. Checks and Counters Latios resists both of Rotom-Wash's STAB moves and can potentially OHKO it with Draco Meteor, depending on their EV spreads. Amoonguss is not threatened by anything Rotom-Wash can do and can freely use Rage Powder or Spore. Amoonguss also can deal meaningful damage to it with Giga Drain. Thundurus generates a lot of value by targeting Rotom-Wash's position with Thunder Wave, and it often carries Taunt to prevent Rotom-Wash from using Light Screen or Will-O-Wisp. Gastrodon is immune to both of Rotom-Wash's STAB moves and is able to switch in and attack its partner with impunity.

Hidden Power Grass 2HKOes Swampert This is a sample set. We aren't working on BW Monotype analyses at the moment, but check out BW Monotype resources for more information about the metagame.

With a Choice Scarf set, Rotom-W can outspeed and beat faster threats such as Tornadus. Hydro Pump is one of the main STAB moves used, and it is a great attacking option due to its high Base Power and its impeccable coverage. It is also great because it can eliminate Ground-types which are looking to absorb a Thunderbolt or Volt Switch; it also hits Tyranitar, which otherwise would not be bothered by anything on this set. Thunderbolt is another great attacking option because it hits bulky Water-types such as Jellicent and Politoed and is more reliable than Hydro Pump due to its perfect accuracy. Volt Switch is a great option for picking off weakened Pokemon while maintaining offensive momentum. It is also a great way to bring in Pokemon such as Politoed to give your team an edge in weather wars. Trick is a great option to cripple defensive Pokemon that might try to take advantage of the fact that Rotom-W will be locked into a move. The fact that it disrupts the use of moves such as Fake Out and Protect is also a nice bonus. Hidden Power Grass is the main option on this set to get rid of Gastrodon, which is very important because Rotom-W has no way to get past it otherwise. However, Hidden Power Ice is an option to KO Shaymin-S and Salamence. The EVs are very simple and are meant to make Rotom-W as fast and as powerful as possible. A Timid nature is slashed first in order to outspeed Jolly Choice Scarf Heracross, but if this benchmark isn't necessary for your team, a Modest nature can be used for more power, netting useful KOs such as an OHKO on Tyranitar outside of Sand. Thunder is an option over Thunderbolt, but it should only be used with rain support, as otherwise its accuracy will be too shaky. Sadly, due to the lack of investment in bulk, this set has more trouble switching into hits than others. This set works best on teams that are slower and need a way to take on fast attackers, so teams utilizing strategies such as Tailwind will likely be better served by another one. Politoed makes for a great partner for this set, giving Hydro Pump a large boost in power and enabling Rotom-W to use Thunder instead of Thunderbolt. In addition, Politoed appreciates Rotom-W's access to Volt Switch, as it allows Politoed to perform better in weather wars. Pokemon that can defeat the Grass- and Dragon-types that don't mind taking on this set, such as Scizor, Abomasnow, and Tornadus, make for good partners. Cresselia makes for another good partner to this set as it can provide Helping Hand support, allowing Rotom-W to gain KOs that it might otherwise miss out on, such as an OHKO on Shaymin-S with Thunder.

With Choice Specs and maximum Special Attack investment, Rotom-W's Special Attack reaches a whopping 509, letting it dish out serious pain to just about anything it attacks. Hydro Pump is the main STAB attack here, and it is a great move to be locked into thanks to its great coverage and high power, which lets it heavily damage Pokemon such as Tyranitar and Scizor. Thunderbolt is the secondary STAB move and has nice coverage with Hydro Pump, eliminating pesky Water-types such as Jellicent and Suicune that don't mind a Hydro Pump. It also allows Rotom-W to be locked into a more reliable STAB move and not have to risk Hydro Pump's 80% accuracy. Thunder might seem like a strange option alongside Thunderbolt, but it serves an important purpose. Even if you are using Rotom-W outside of rain, Thunder is necessary to net important KOs against common rain Pokemon, making this set a much better rain check. Here are some damage calculations comparing the power of Thunder to that of Thunderbolt: 252+ SpA Choice Specs Rotom-W Thunderbolt vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Ludicolo: 220-259 (73.57 - 86.62%) -- guaranteed 2HKO 252+ SpA Choice Specs Rotom-W Thunder vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Ludicolo: 277-327 (92.64 - 109.36%) -- 56.25% chance to OHKO 252+ SpA Choice Specs Rotom-W Thunderbolt vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Kingdra: 229-270 (78.69 - 92.78%) -- guaranteed 2HKO 252+ SpA Choice Specs Rotom-W Thunder vs. 0 HP / 4 SpD Kingdra: 288-340 (98.96 - 116.83%) -- 93.75% chance to OHKO If you are uncomfortable using Thunder outside of rain, Trick is another good option, as it lets you cripple a Pokemon by locking it into a move, severely hampering its usability. Trick is also useful because it prevents Pokemon from effectively taking advantage of moves such as Fake Out and Protect. Hidden Power Grass is mainly used to eliminate Gastrodon, which is very important because Gastrodon is immune to both of its STAB moves and not only redirects but also gets a boost from Hydro Pump. Hidden Power Ice is also an option to be able to eliminate Salamence and Shaymin-S. However, Thunder is able to OHKO both of them, so keep that in mind when deciding whether to use it. Volt Switch allows Rotom-W to fire off an attack while gaining momentum, but it is weaker than Thunderbolt and isn't able to be used as reliably due to forcing Rotom-W out when it is used. Another option for this set is Discharge, as it gives Rotom-W a spread move with a high chance to paralyze an opposing Pokemon. However, there is a noticable drop in power between it and Thunderbolt, and the fact that it can hit Rotom-W's partner can be a huge problem. This set really enjoys rain support, as not only does it grant Hydro Pump more power but it also allows Rotom-W to use Thunder reliably. The EVs allow Rotom-W to live a Life Orb-boosted Giga Drain from Ludicolo, which is even more important on this set because Rotom-W has a high chance to OHKO it in return with Thunder. Pokemon such as Scizor and Tornadus that can reliably eliminate Grass- and Dragon-types make good partners for this set as well. Garchomp, Excadrill, and Landorus appreciate this set's ability to easily wear down defensive Pokemon so they can clean up late-game. They also enjoy the fact that they can use their powerful Earthquakes without worrying about hurting Rotom-W. Cresselia also makes for a great partner as it can provide the speed control that Rotom-W likes having. It also enjoys the fact that this set can easily destroy things such as Scizor and Tyranitar that would otherwise threaten it.

With this set, Rotom-W makes an excellent offensive support Pokemon and can use its good bulk and offensive power to check powerful Pokemon such as Excadrill, Kingdra, and Tyranitar. Hydro Pump is a great attacking move here, as it is very powerful and has excellent neutral coverage. It also decimates Ground-types and Tyranitar, both of which wouldn't mind taking a Thunderbolt. The fact that it gets a boost under rain allows Rotom-W to be both a nice rain partner and an even better rain check. Thunderbolt is a nice secondary STAB move, mauling the bulky Water-types that would otherwise not be threatened by Rotom-W. Thunderbolt also gives Rotom-W a more accurate attacking option than Hydro Pump. Thunder Wave is used here in order to cripple faster Pokemon and allow Rotom-W to better support its team. It is also nice to give Rotom-W a way to hit Pokemon that otherwise would not be very threatened by it, such as Latios. Will-O-Wisp is nice to cripple physical attackers, but paralysis is generally a more useful status condition. Sitrus Berry is the main item on this set because it helps boost Rotom-W's survivabiity, allowing it to continue to be a threat to the opponent as well as granting it the ability to take multiple hits in a single turn when needed. Alternatively, Rotom-W may hold a Water Gem or an Electric Gem to power one of its STAB moves to net quicker KOs. The investment in bulk is used to let Rotom-W survive a Life Orb-boosted Giga Drain from Ludicolo and either cripple it with paralysis or hit it with a Thunderbolt; the rest of the EVs are invested in Rotom-W's Special Attack to allow it to hit the things it checks for solid damage. Hidden Power Grass is a nice option to hit Gastrodon, which is otherwise a huge problem for this set. However, the loss of a support move can hamper Rotom-W's effectiveness. Thunder is a nice option in rain to grant Rotom-W more power, but its accuracy is shaky outside of rain, which can be a problem. Another option for this set is Discharge, as it gives Rotom-W a spread move with a nice paralysis chance. However, there is a noticeable drop in power between it and Thunderbolt, and the fact that it can also hit your partner can be a huge problem as it either forces Rotom-W's partner to Protect or forces you to pair Rotom-W with a Pokemon with an immunity to Electric-type attacks. Because Rotom-W is vulnerable to Grass- and Dragon-types that don't mind its attacks, Pokemon that can handle them such as Scizor and Abomasnow make for great partners. Scizor resists both Grass- and Dragon-type moves and can damage their users heavily with its Technician-boosted attacks. Abomasnow's STAB Blizzards can easily threaten both Grass- and Dragon-types, and it can also take care of Gastrodon with Giga Drain, making it another good choice. Other good partners include Hitmontop for its Intimidate support, Latios for its ability to outspeed other Dragon-types and beat Grass-types, and Tornadus for outspeeding all common Dragon-types and decimating things that can threaten Rotom-W with a Flying Gem-boosted Acrobatics. Pokemon such as Garchomp and Landorus can also be effective partners, as they appreciate Rotom-W's ability to check rain as well as its paralysis support; they also don't have to worry about hitting Rotom-W with Earthquake thanks to its Levitate ability.

This set aims to deal damage to the opponent's team over a long period of time while having enough bulk to serve as a defensive pivot, essentially combining Rotom-W's offensive, defensive, and support capabilities. Volt Switch allows Rotom-W to scout for counters, and as this is a slower set, teammates can switch in safely after Rotom-W uses it. Thunderbolt is an option as it makes this set a hard counter to Substitute + Dragon Dance Gyarados. Hydro Pump serves as a secondary STAB move that disposes of the Ground-types Rotom-W can easily switch into, such as Landorus and Excadrill. Rotom-W can generally handle Hydro Pump's imperfect accuracy due to its great bulk. Hidden Power Fire is notable for KOing Ferrothorn outright, while Hidden Power Ice is handy for hitting Dragonite, Salamence, and Garchomp. Hidden Power Ice is also useful for hitting Landorus and Gliscor more reliably than Hydro Pump. Pain Split provides a reliable source of recovery, as Pokemon with huge HP stats, such as Blissey, commonly switch into Rotom-W. Will-O-Wisp is another option, as it enables Rotom-W to cripple Tyranitar and Ferrothorn. The given EVs maximize Rotom-W's physical bulk so that it can comfortably take on Excadrill and Landorus. Rotom-W can use an alternate EV spread of 40 HP / 252 SpA / 216 Spe, which maximizes its attacking power and enables it to outspeed neutral-natured Gyarados, Mamoswine, Dragonite, and uninvested Latias, with the remaining EVs put into HP for added bulk. This set is a lot more flexible in terms of move selection as it isn't locked into one move like the Choice Scarf set. Expert Belt allows Rotom-W to feign a Choice item while using Volt Switch, but Rotom-W will miss the recovery. Hidden Power Grass hits Gastrodon, which is immune to both of Rotom-W's STABs. Thunder Wave can be used in the third slot; reminiscent to Tinkerbell Celebi, it makes Rotom-W a more self-sufficient sweeper as it can outspeed most paralyzed threats and hit them with a powerful attack. Rotom-W can use Toxic over Will-O-Wish, but the latter is generally more useful, crippling Pokemon such Tyranitar and Ferrothorn. Politoed is a good partner as it boosts Rotom-W's Water-type attacks and has the ability to burn foes with Scald, letting Rotom-W forgo Will-O-Wisp for another move. Metagross forms an excellent defensive core alongside Rotom-W, as they cover all of each other's weaknesses, while Metagross can Pursuit trap Celebi, Latias, and Latios so that Rotom-W is free to fire off its powerful STAB attacks. The likes of Calm Mind Latias and Keldeo can also capitalize on Rotom-W's ability to spread burns. Forretress can provide Rotom-W with hazard and Rapid Spin support so that it secures more KOs and is free to Volt Switch to its heart's desire. With Stealth Rock down, Rotom-W can OHKO 4/0 Dragonite with Hidden Power Ice (Dragonite might have Lum Berry, so Will-O-Wisp isn't always the best option), and with Stealth Rock and one layer of Spikes, Rotom-W can OHKO standard Magnezone with Hydro Pump. Rotom-W can also KO Jellicent, letting Forretress safely use Rapid Spin. Excadrill is also a good candidate to provide Rapid Spin, as Rotom-W can beat a large portion of Excadrill's switch-ins.

Unlike its other sets, SubSpit Rotom-W plays the role of an all-out sweeper and aims to beat some of Rotom-W's conventional counters through the use of Substitute and Pain Split. Rotom-W makes an exceptional user of the SubSplit combination with its excellent typing and low base HP, meaning it gains huge amounts of health back when it uses Pain Split against walls such as Blissey. The key to this Rotom-W beating Blissey and Gastrodon is Toxic Spikes support, though Gastrodon can also simply be Toxiced as it lacks Natural Cure. With Toxic Spikes down, Blissey and Gastrodon will be put on a timer by Toxic and Rotom-W's arsenal of Pain Split and strong attacks. Rotom-W's great typing and defensive stats mean its Substitutes are relatively difficult to break. Hydro Pump and Thunderbolt hit incredibly hard as they receive boosts from STAB, Life Orb, and possibly even rain. The EV spread maximizes Rotom-W's potency as a sweeper, while the HP EVs help Rotom-W maintain its Substitute against rain-boosted Scalds from Gastrodon and other bulky Water-types. Rotom-W prefers a Modest nature for more power; Timid can be used, but Rotom-W outspeeds nothing significant with it barring opposing Rotom-W. Life Orb is the primary item for more power; however, Leftovers is a viable option if you're worried about the omnipresent sand wearing Rotom-W down too quickly. If Rotom-W has rain support, it can use Thunder over Thunderbolt for more power and a 30% paralysis rate. As previously stated, this set is much more effective with Toxic Spikes and rain support; Tentacruel can provide Toxic Spikes and Rapid Spin support, and is generally a good fit on rain teams. Politoed is an obligatory partner; a variant with Toxic is preferred to hit Gastrodon, but Choice Specs Politoed is also a good option as Rotom-W can take out Blissey and Gastrodon with proper support. Politoed also eliminates residual damage from sand or hail, which Rotom-W always appreciates. This variant of Rotom-W still has trouble with Latias and Celebi, so Scizor makes a good partner to eliminate them with Pursuit or its Bug-type attacks. If you can't fit Toxic Spikes on your team, Breloom can dispose of Blissey and Gastrodon with its STAB attacks. Breloom and Rotom-W also share good type synergy, covering up a majority of each other's weaknesses. Finally, hazards can prove useful for securing more KOs. For instance, with Stealth Rock down, Rotom-W can OHKO 252/252+ Politoed with a Life Orb-boosted Thunder, preventing Politoed from using Perish Song to ruin Rotom-W's sweep. Skarmory can lay down Spikes or Stealth Rock while covering Rotom-W's Grass-type weakness; furthermore, Rotom-W covers Skarmory's Fire-type weakness.

With a Choice Scarf equipped, Rotom-W can outrun and KO dangerous threats in the DW metagame, such as Thundurus, +1 Dragonite, and Garchomp. Volt Switch enables Rotom-W to function as a scout; Rotom-W is a particularly effective user of the move due to its immunity to both forms of Spikes. Hydro Pump serves as a secondary STAB move that hits hard when boosted by rain, KOing Ground-type foes hoping to switch into Rotom-W's Electric-type attacks. Hidden Power Fire is specifically for Ferrothorn, which resists both of Rotom-W's STABs. Hidden Power Ice, on the other hand, offers a reliable method of revenge killing +1 Dragonite and Salamence. Trick rounds out the set, allowing Rotom-W to cripple common switch-ins such as Ferrothorn, Gastrodon, and Blissey, while possibly obtaining Leftovers to capitalize on Rotom-W's great bulk. However, Thunderbolt is a viable alternative due to its superior power and ability to consistently break Substitutes of Pokemon such as Chandelure and Gyarados. A Timid nature and 252 Speed EVs enable Rotom-W to outrun +2 Gorebyss and Modest Choice Scarf Genesect. Two moves to consider in the third slot are Signal Beam and Hidden Power Grass, as the former OHKOes Celebi while the latter disposes of Gastrodon, but the overall coverage these two attacks provide is outclassed by Hidden Power Fire or Ice. Finally, Rotom-W can use Thunder over Thunderbolt if it has rain support. Scizor makes an excellent partner to Rotom-W, forming a VoltTurn chain that can deal with the majority of each other's counters. Genesect can perform a similar role as Scizor, but Chansey walls both it and Rotom-W. Rotom-W appreciates Rapid Spin support, as Stealth Rock can limit the number of times Rotom-W can use Volt Switch. Rapid Spin Excadrill pairs up well with Rotom-W, as Rotom-W can counter Gliscor and Skarmory, two of Excadrill's biggest obstacles. Excadrill can also OHKO a large portion of special walls for Rotom-W. Choice Scarf Rotom-W loves rain support to compensate for its lack of boosting item or move. Drizzle Politoed is the best way to supply Rotom-W with rain; a Choice variant in particular can break down walls for Rotom-W. Rotom-W thrives with entry hazard support, as it secures more KOs while putting the opponent under pressure with Volt Switch. Stealth Rock also breaks Dragonite's Multiscale, allowing Rotom-W to OHKO Dragon Dance Dragonite with Hidden Power Ice. Stealth Rock also puts Thundurus in range where Rotom-W can OHKO with Rotom-W's Volt Switch. Forretress can provide Rotom-W with both hazard and Rapid Spin support, while Rotom-W can switch into Fire-type attacks aimed at Forretress. Finally, Wish support can preserve Rotom-W's excellent bulk and let it repeatedly switch into threats. Rotom-W shares greats synergy with Jirachi, which can provide Wishes large enough to heal Rotom-W.

Choice Scarf Rotom-A is a powerful revenge killer that outspeeds the entire unboosted metagame. Rotom-Heat's Overheat matches up better against Metagross and Bronzong, but one can change formes and use different coverage options for better matchups against different threats, such as Tyranitar or Swampert. Alternatively, Choice Scarf Rotom-A can drop a coverage move for a support move such as Thunder Wave or Will-O-Wisp and play more of a supportive role, especially after it drops its Choice Scarf with Trick. Choice Scarf Rotom-A is less focused on wallbreaking compared to Choice Specs sets, mostly a more support-oriented Pokemon early- and mid-game or a late-game cleaner. As a cleaner, Rotom-A prefers to lock into either of its STAB moves if possible, as its coverage options are less reliable and harder to spam. Overheat's and Leaf Storm's Special Attack drops greatly reduce Rotom-A's offensive pressure, while Hydro Pump's lower accuracy makes it risky to rely on for consistent damage. If Rotom-A uses a status move instead of a coverage move, then its priority is to lose its Choice Scarf with Trick and follow up with status moves to disrupt the opponent's game plan. As a lead, Choice Scarf Rotom-A can leverage its great Speed tier to get the jump on Pokemon that would normally be faster, such as Latios or Mew. In general, Rotom-A matches up well against common leads such as Metagross and Mew, threatening them with super effective damage. Additionally, more passive lead options such as Bronzong or Hitmontop hate getting a Choice Scarf from Trick. Choice Scarf Rotom-A appreciates partners that threaten Tyranitar such as Gyarados, Metagross, and Heracross, but it is less reliant on them than other Rotom-A sets to create value, as the Choice Scarf set doesn't need to spread consistent damage. Hitmontop's Fake Out gives Rotom-A free turns to use Trick or hit foes with its status moves, if it runs them.