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Earthquake deals massive damage to entry hazard removers like Excadrill and Tentacruel. Flip Turn makes progress against foes like Zarude and Salamence while also bringing in teammates like Zygarde-10% safely. Toxic cripples walls such as Tangrowth and Slowking that force out Swampert. Yawn instead can shut down offensive powerhouses like Primarina that may threaten Swampert's teammates and force switches, allowing Swampert to generate even more momentum. Ice Beam lets Swampert threaten Dragon- and Grass-types like Salamence, Amoonguss, and Tangrowth. However, this forces Swampert to forego one of its utility moves. 112 Special Defense EVs allow Swampert to tank powerful special hits from foes like Thundurus-T and Salamence, while 144 Defense EVs prevent Swampert from getting 2HKOed by Excadrill and Zygarde-10%. A Sassy nature is used so that Swampert can underspeed defensive Celesteela and thus absorb its Leech Seed before pivoting out to a teammate. Slow wallbreakers, such as Conkeldurr and Mamoswine, greatly appreciate Yawn crippling enemies and Flip Turn giving them safe entry against Pokemon like Hydreigon and Amoonguss. Offensive pivots such as Thundurus-T, Azelf, Crobat, and Zarude form momentum cores with Swampert while also overwhelming foes that Swampert can't handle, such as Tangrowth, Keldeo, and Hydreigon. Tapu Bulu gives Swampert much-appreciated additional recovery through Grassy Terrain. In turn, Swampert can help deal with Poison-types such as Nidoqueen, Nihilego, and Tentacruel, which threaten Tapu Bulu. Wish recovery from clerics such as Jirachi is also great for its longevity. Swampert greatly appreciates teammates like Skarmory and Moltres that can check the Grass-types that it fears so much. The former also forms an entry hazard stacking core with Swampert, while the latter forms a momentum core with it. Entry hazard removers like Tentacruel, Excadrill, and Salamence stop Spikes from punishing Swampert's longevity. Celesteela is able to block threats like Skarmory and Togekiss for Swampert and keeps it from being overwhelmed by Nihilego, appreciating Swampert taking on Tentacruel and Rotom-H in return.

Swampert is able to set Stealth Rock in order to reduce the longevity of Pokemon that do not run Heavy-Duty Boots such as Choice Specs Zapdos. Earthquake is used to prevent Swampert from being strictly passive, allowing it to hit Electric- and Poison-types like Tapu Koko, Zeraora, and Toxapex. Roar not only takes advantage of the aforementioned Stealth Rock, but it allows Swampert to phaze setup sweepers such as Dragon Dance Dragapult and Dragonite, preventing it from becoming setup fodder. Flip Turn takes advantage of Swampert's little Speed investment to allow the player to gain momentum by having switch advantage. Swampert's EVs allow it to survive a Grass Knot from Choice Specs Tapu Koko and KO it back with Earthquake after Stealth Rock damage. Almost all Water-type Pokemon benefit from the presence of Swampert on the team, as it is able to shield the rest of the team from Electric-type moves such as Rising Voltage and Thunderbolt, as well as set Stealth Rock. Notable mentions of Pokemon that benefit from Swampert being on a team are Pelipper and Mantine, as they both have a 4x weakness to Electric-type moves. Pelipper and Mantine can also switch into Ground-type moves to prevent Swampert from taking unnecessary damage. Pelipper can set rain for Swift Swim teammates that Swampert can pivot in via Flip Turn, and Mantine can use Defog for its teammates. Due to the aforementioned immunity, Swampert and Toxapex form a defensive backbone together, with Toxapex being able to take on physical attackers for Swampert such as Dragon Dance Dragapult and Dragonite. Toxapex can also absorb Toxic Spikes and Toxic for Swampert. Swampert assists wallbreakers such as Choice Specs Keldeo and Barraskewda. These wallbreakers are able to take care of walls such as Blissey, Porygon2, and Skarmory, which Swampert struggles against due to its passive nature. Choice Specs Keldeo especially is an amazing teammate for Swampert, as Flip Turn can bring it in to obtain KOs on both physical and special walls such as Blissey, Ferrothorn, and Celesteela. Choice Scarf Urshifu-R heavily benefits from the presence of Swampert, as it not only provides an aforementioned immunity to Electric but a special wall to take the special hits that Urshifu-R cannot. In turn, Urshifu-R can handle Dark- and Steel-type Pokemon such as Hydreigon and Ferrothorn for Swampert, as well as being able to revenge kill threats such as Tapu Koko and Zeraora. Tapu Fini prevents Swampert from being statused and can help Swampert avoid entry hazard damage with Defog. Tapu Fini also deals with Dragon-types that can wall Swampert such as Hydreigon, Kyurem, and Latios. Slowking also appreciates the aforementioned immunity as well, and Swampert appreciates a switch-in for certain special attackers such as Tapu Lele. Suicune is an excellent partner for Swampert due to its ability to stall out many bulkier Pokemon that Swampert would otherwise be unable to hit such as Celesteela. Slowking can form a pivoting core with Swampert, bringing in teammates like Barraskewda safely and then having them wreak havoc.

Mega Swampert is a mainstay on rain teams due to its ability upon Mega Evolution, Swift Swim, which allows it to outpace the entire unboosted metagame while rain is active. Mega Swampert's immunity to Electric is also very useful for rain teams, as they often consist of multiple Water-type Pokemon. Earthquake hits most common Pokemon resistant to Waterfall, such as Toxapex, Kartana, and Gastrodon. Ice Punch hammers Garchomp and Kommo-o while also scoring a 2HKO on Mega Latias after Stealth Rock damage. Flip Turn allows Mega Swampert to act as an offensive pivot against threatening Pokemon such as Tangrowth and Slowbro for teammates such as Zapdos and Manaphy to take advantage of them. Damp is the chosen ability prior to Mega Evolution to situationally block Landorus-T and Mew from using Explosion. A Jolly nature is preferred to Adamant to allow Mega Swampert to outpace Choice Scarf Kartana in rain. Due to Mega Swampert's dependence on rain in order to be an offensive threat, Pelipper is an absolute necessity. Additionally, due to its poor matchup against bulky Water-types such as Slowbro and Alomomola, teammates such as Ash-Greninja, Manaphy, and offensive Zapdos are important partners. Zapdos is an especially fantastic partner, as not only does it threaten Slowbro, Mega Venusaur, and Tangrowth for Mega Swampert, but it can also defensively handle Rillaboom. Mega Swampert also helps the aforementioned teammates punch through Gastrodon and Ferrothorn while being immune to the Electric-type attacks that they are commonly weak to. Finally, Ferrothorn is an especially nice partner, as it provides entry hazards to weaken Mega Swampert's checks while defensively answering Ash-Greninja and Kyurem.

With Assault Vest equipped, Swampert becomes a solid special wall against various threats such as Zapdos and Azelf. Flip Turn keeps the momentum and lets Swampert recover health while doing decent damage due to its respectable Attack. Beyond Flip Turn, this set's moveset is quite flexible. Its secondary STAB move can be either Earthquake, for greater damage overall, or Earth Power, as Swampert is prone to being burned and sometimes pairs with Grassy Terrain setters. Thanks to its insane special bulk, RegenVest Swampert can use Mirror Coat to punish special threats that it cannot hit hard such as Zapdos or Tapu Fini; however, Counter is a neat option to punish Flip Turn from Barraskewda, which it handles thanks to its great overall bulk. Counter can also punish opposing Swampert's Flip Turn if you don't want to risk the Speed tie. Stone Edge is a great option to hit Primordial Sea Zapdos, as well as punishing Volcarona and Talonflame, but Scald can be used instead to burn defensive Pokemon such as Corviknight or opposing Swampert, and it also prevents physical threats such as Zarude from coming in freely. 0 Speed IVs and a Sassy nature allow Swampert to slow pivot on Corviknight. Swampert and Corviknight cover each other's typing weaknesses quite well, combine to handle both special and physical threats, and form a pivoting core. Tapu Fini is also a good teammate, providing Defog support and soft checking many of the physical threats of the tier, while Swampert checks most of the special threats. Offensively, all the Pokemon that greatly appreciate safe entry from slow pivoting make good partners, like Terrakion, Barraskewda, and Heatran. This set's main weakness is its dependence on Assault Vest to check special threats, which makes it particularly vulnerable to Knock Off. Pokemon that can absorb Knock Off such as Zamazenta-C make great partners, and both usefully resist Grass for Swampert as well. Other Options Utility Umbrella can be used over Rocky Helmet to check Primordial Sea Barraskewda, but it's a niche option and should be used only if your team is really weak to Barraskewda, as losing Rocky Helmet makes Swampert really passive. Several other move options are possible on the RegenVest set, depending on what you want to cover. Whirlpool allows Swampert to wear down or eliminate passive threats such as Tapu Fini and Skarmory that think they are safe against it—especially when they know it’s running Assault Vest. Ice Beam and Ice Punch hit Garchomp to prevent it from setting up in front of Swampert. Lastly, in offensive teams, Eject Button can be used to grab some huge momentum and immediately bring a powerful wallbreaker onto the field, but it too is a niche option. Checks and Counters Grass-types and Grass-type Coverage: With Swampert's 4x weakness Grass, any Grass-type move will usually KO it. Zarude, Solar Beam Heatran, and Energy Ball Tapu Lele are all huge threats for Swampert. Knock Off: Without its Assault Vest, RegenVest Swampert's special bulk is significantly decreased and it's much harder to answer special attackers such as Zapdos, so Knock Off from Pokemon like Tapu Fini or Incineroar cripples it. Desolate Land: Desolate Land blocks Swampert's Flip Turn, resulting in a loss of momentum. However, Swampert can threaten most Desolate Land users like Heatran with its other moves.

Swampert's great natural bulk and excellent typing make it one of the best defensive pivots in the metagame. It soft checks numerous threats such as Talonflame and Tapu Koko as well as providing Stealth Rock, which lets it fit on a wide variety of balance and offense teams. Flip Turn is Swampert's main attack, letting it keep momentum, especially against Defoggers, and regain health with Regenerator. Earth Power is an option over Earthquake to be less crippled by burn, or if the team has a Grassy Terrain setter. Toxic punishes sweepers that would like to use Swampert as setup fodder, as well as a major Defogger in Tapu Fini. Roar is an option over Toxic to phaze foes, especially Magic Guard Pokemon, which don't fear Toxic. Regenerator keeps Swampert healthy throughout the game, and Rocky Helmet chips opposing pivots while punishing physical threats. Lastly, the 0 Speed IVs and Relaxed nature allow it to slow pivot on Corviknight. Swampert's capacity to sponge physical moves makes Pokemon such as Blissey or users of Assault Vest good partners. Coupled with Corviknight, Swampert can check almost all physical threats in the tier and, if you add Blissey, create a strong defensive core. Offensively, strong wallbreakers such as Terrakion and Sheer Force Tapu Lele appreciate Swampert bringing them safely against Pokemon that they can threaten, such as Zapdos or Corviknight, respectively. Solid answers to Grass-types like Zarude and Dhelmise are required when using Swampert, like Corviknight, as they can come in relatively freely on an expected Earthquake or Stealth Rock and threaten it. In addition, Swampert appreciates secondary switch-ins to Fire-types such as Volcarona, Talonflame, and Desolate Land Heatran, as it cannot reliably check most of them, so physically defensive Water-types such as Tapu Fini or specially defensive Pokemon like Blissey and RegenVest Silvally-Dragon are appreciated.

Swampert's part-Ground typing grants it an invaluable immunity to Electric attacks, making it the premier Stealth Rock setter for Water teams. Stealth Rock can chip down foes for its teammates while breaking Sturdy on Pokemon such as Skarmory. Earthquake allows Swampert to significantly damage Electric-types such as Regieleki and Zeraora. Flip Turn allows Swampert to generate momentum for Water teams and safely bring in teammates. Alternatively, Scald can be used to fish for burns against Pokemon such as Ferrothorn and Tapu Bulu; however, the momentum is more appreciated. Roar allows Swampert to force out physical setup sweepers such as Mega Altaria and Dragon Dance Dragonite. Toxic is an option over Roar, as it allows Swampert to cripple foes such as Zapdos, Rotom-W, and Mega Latias by putting them on a timer. Leftovers grants Swampert a form of passive recovery. Maximum HP and Defense investment alongside an Impish nature allows it to be as physically bulky as possible and better take on threats such as Zeraora and Mega Scizor. All of Swampert's teammates appreciate it granting the type an Electric immunity, setting Stealth Rock, and generating momentum by bringing them in safely with Flip Turn. Toxapex provides a Grass neutrality for Swampert and can take attacks such as Mega Venusaur's Giga Drain and Ferrothorn's Power Whip. Additionally, it can sponge attacks such as Latios's Draco Meteor and recover off damage thanks to Regenerator + Recover, form a hazard stacking core with Swampert with Toxic Spikes, cripple Flying-types like Zapdos with Toxic, OHKO Tapu Bulu with Sludge Bomb, and threaten Calm Mind Tapu Fini with Poison Jab. Tapu Fini provides a Dragon immunity; prevents Swampert from being vulnerable to status with Misty Terrain; stallbreaks with Taunt; and can break past Kyurem with Choice Scarf Moonblast, which otherwise destroys Swampert. Slowking provides a switch-in to powerful Psychic-type attacks such as Choice Specs Tapu Lele's Psychic and can sponge attacks with Regenerator. Greninja can take on Dragon- and Grass-types such as Dragonite and Celebi with Ice Beam, beat Fairy-type Pokemon such as Tapu Koko with Gunk Shot, and revenge kill foes with its Choice Scarf set. Urshifu-R can take on Kyurem, Mandibuzz, and Ferrothorn with Close Combat. Rotom-W can cripple physical attackers such as Mega Altaria with Will-O-Wisp, allowing it to phaze them with Roar more easily. Slowking, Greninja, Urshifu-R, and Rotom-W can all form some sort of momentum-grabbing core with Swampert due to their access to Teleport, U-turn, and Volt Switch. Rotom-W and Mantine can switch into Ground-type attacks from foes like Landorus-T and Sand Rush Excadrill and clear entry hazards with Defog. Mega Sharpedo can act as a late-game sweeper in matchups such as Psychic and Flying by breaking through threats such as Celebi, Deoxys-S, and Landorus.

Mega Swampert is a blessing to rain teams by providing an Electric immunity, being able to set Stealth Rock, and using Swift Swim alongside Pelipper's rain. Rain-boosted Waterfall allows it to better take on Pokemon like Celesteela and Zapdos, especially thanks to the added flinching chance. Earthquake allows it to take on Electric-, Poison-, and Steel-type Pokemon such as Zeraora, Toxapex, and Melmetal. Ice Punch allows Mega Swampert to target Grass-, Flying-, and Dragon-type Pokemon such as Breloom, Dragonite, and Garchomp. Stone Edge is an alternative to nail Mantine, which otherwise walls Mega Swampert. Flip Turn allows Mega Swampert to generate momentum by pivoting on a predicted switch, allowing it to bring in a better teammate such as Greninja to take on the foe. Alternatively, Stealth Rock allows Mega Swampert to chip down Pokemon such as Rotom-W and Dragapult, in turn making them easier to revenge kill. Swift Swim doubles its Speed under rain, allowing it to outpace threats such as Volcarona after a Quiver Dance and Choice Scarf Excadrill. Maximum Speed and Attack investment alongside a Jolly nature allows it to outpace threats such as Adamant Tapu Bulu. Pelipper is an essential teammate, as it sets rain for Mega Swampert, enabling Swift Swim and allowing it to act as a revenge killer and powerful wallbreaker. In addition to setting rain, Pelipper can also nuke Grass-types such as Mega Venusaur with Hurricane, utilize a defensive set with Heavy-Duty Boots to safely pivot in Mega Swampert with U-turn, provide a Ground immunity, and clear entry hazards with Defog. Urshifu-R forms a physical wallbreaking core with Mega Swampert, being able to break past Steel-, Dark-, Ice-, and Normal-type Pokemon such as Ferrothorn, Mandibuzz, Kyurem, and Porygon2. In addition, Urshifu-R can form a pivoting core with Mega Swampert due to U-turn. Greninja can break past Water- and Flying-type Pokemon like opposing Swampert, Mantine, and Landorus with Grass Knot, Hidden Power Electric, and Ice Beam and set Toxic Spikes for Mega Swampert. Choice Scarf Tapu Fini prevents Mega Swampert from being vulnerable to status due to Misty Terrain, provides a Dragon immunity, and can revenge kill Dragon-type Pokemon such as Kyurem and Choice Specs Latios with Moonblast. Additionally, Choice Scarf Tapu Fini can cripple a defensive Pokemon such as Skarmory or Celesteela with Trick, allowing Mega Swampert to then beat them down with ease. Kingdra is a fellow Swift Swim user that can take advantage of Dragon-types and revenge kill them with Draco Meteor and Ice Beam while threatening Grass-type Pokemon such as Zarude with Hurricane. Kingdra can also break past physical walls such as Skarmory for Mega Swampert, and in return, Mega Swampert can break past special walls such as Blissey. Barraskewda is another Swift Swim user that can break down its shared checks with Mega Swampert such as Skarmory with its physical Water-type moves, take on Pokemon such as Kyurem with Close Combat, and pivot it in safely with Flip Turn. Manaphy can break past physical walls and checks to Mega Swampert such as Skarmory, Dragonite, and Mega Venusaur thanks to its wallbreaking potential with Tail Glow and great coverage moves. Additionally, thanks to its ability Hydration, it can absorb status for Mega Swampert then use Rest, effectively allowing it to act as a stallbreaker. One of Slowking and Toxapex are typically present on rain teams due to their ability Regenerator, allowing them to act as tanks while being able to pivot out with Teleport or Eject Button, respectively, safely bringing in Mega Swampert. Slowking eases the Psychic matchup, while Toxapex eases the Grass matchup and provides Toxic Spikes. Empoleon can alternatively be used because it can clear entry hazards with Defog, provides a resistance to Dragon- and Psychic-type attacks such as Draco Meteor and Psychic from Latios, and can act as the Stealth Rock setter.

Swampert's good bulk, typing, and access to a slow Flip Turn make it a unique option for Stealth Rock setting. Yawn not only gives Swampert a chance to rack up Stealth Rock damage via switch-outs, but also punishes set-up opportunities againt Swampert, provided that the foe isn't carrying Lum Berry or they aren't a grounded foe in Misty Terrain or Electric Terrain. Earthquake is a reliable STAB that hits high value targets like Nihilego, Heatran, and Naganadel. Ice Beam is a reasonable alternative for hitting Pokemon such as Landorus-T, Dragonite, Salamence, and Garchomp much harder. Damp is an important ability for blocking Explosion, making Swampert a particularly good check to Regieleki. Torrent is still usable for boosting Flip Turn when Swampert is low on health, however. The given EV spread maximizes Swampert's physical bulk, while making it as slow as possible for Flip Turn. Items Sitrus Berry gives Swampert the fastest burst of recovery possible, Rindo Berry is a good alternative for allowing Swampert to survive weaker Grass-type attacks, such as Nihilego's boosted Grass Knot. Focus Sash may seem absurd with Swampert's bulk, but it lets Swampert reliably use Yawn against Dynamax Pokemon, and set up Stealth Rock without worry if needed.

Moves Scald is used to hit Ground-immune Pokemon like Rotom-Heat and Moltres while also potentially crippling Pokemon like Scizor and Crawdaunt with a burn. Toxic cripples Pokemon that would otherwise wall Swampert like Hydreigon, Chesnaught, and Latias. However, Roar can prevent Pokemon like Latias and Nasty Plot Togekiss from using it as setup fodder. Set Details Swampert can be worn down very quickly due to the lack of reliable recovery, so Leftovers is the best item it can run. Torrent allows Swampert to benefit from being worn down by boosting the power of its Scald once it's at a low HP. Physically defensive investment is chosen over investment in Special Defense because Swampert would still be unable to check most special wallbreakers anyway. Usage Tips The most important thing to note when using Swampert is that it lacks any form of reliable recovery. This means that it must be used much more carefully than Pokemon like Hippowdon and Gligar, since it can be easily overwhelmed. It's advised not to switch Swampert into every possible attack, even if it's capable of tanking it, as that would prevent it from effectively checking what it's supposed to. It should also avoid switching into a potential Toxic or Knock Off from Pokemon like Empoleon and Tentacruel for the same reason, as it relies on Leftovers to be healthy. Only switch into Pokemon that Swampert can comfortably check like Mega Aerodactyl and Rotom-Heat and attempt to set up Stealth Rock or weaken the opposing team with its other attacks. It should beware of status from Rotom-Heat, however. If Swampert's health starts getting very low, proactive play is recommended in order to get it on the field as often as possible and rack up Leftovers recovery. Be wary of Grass-type coverage from Pokemon like Mega Manectric and Nihilego whenever attempting to switch into them, as they can easily dent Swampert or outright OHKO it. Team Options Swampert fits best on bulky offense and balance teams that appreciate its ability to check a lot of Pokemon in the tier and keep Stealth Rock up against common entry hazard removers like Rotom-Heat and Empoleon. Pokemon that can sponge Grass-type attacks like Hydreigon, Moltres, Mega Altaria, and Amoonguss make the best partners for Swampert, as those are the main way to defeat it. Mega Altaria is a particularly good teammate, since it can take advantage of Natural Cure in its regular form to absorb Amoonguss's Spore, which would otherwise be able to easily switch into Swampert and cripple a member of its team. Wish support from Pokemon like Blissey and Sylveon helps Swampert by increasing its longevity, as it's prone to being worn down. Cleric support is equally appreciated, since status ailments can negate Leftovers recovery and wear it down over time. Thus, Pokemon like Togekiss, Blissey, and Florges pair well with Swampert. Fairy-types like the aforementioned Florges and Togekiss can also provide a switch-in to Dragon-type Pokemon like Latias, Mega Sceptile, and Hydreigon, which can easily switch into Swampert and threaten it with their powerful STAB attacks. In return, Swampert does a good job at keeping most Steel-types like Mega Aggron and Empoleon in check. Spikes and Toxic Spikes are another way to hurt Swampert's durability, so entry hazard removers like Tentacruel and Rotom-Heat are very good teammates as well. Pokemon that appreciate Stealth Rock being set such as Terrakion and Lucario also pair well with Swampert.

Moves Ice Punch is used to hit Pokemon that would otherwise wall this set completely, such as Hydreigon, Latias, Celebi, and Rotom-Mow. Toxic allows Swampert to cripple Pokemon that it's unable to 2HKO like Alomomola and Slowbro, as the residual damage is usually enough to put them in range of a Choice Band-boosted Earthquake, but Superpower could also be used in the last slot, allowing Swampert to OHKO Pokemon like Blissey and Hydreigon. Superpower is also helpful for hitting some Earthquake targets like Empoleon and Cobalion, easing prediction. Set Details The given spread allows Swampert to outspeed Modest Primarina and uninvested Scizor, meaning it can hit them before they attack it or switch out with U-turn. Since Swampert is prone to being worn down, Torrent is the preferred ability, since it boosts the power of its Waterfall once it's at a low amount of health. Usage Tips The difference between Choice Band Swampert and the other offensive Ground-types is that it has a lot more opportunities to come in and fire off attacks thanks to its amazing defensive typing and bulk, so that must be used to its advantage by bringing it in often, especially against Pokemon that it can naturally check like Rotom-Heat and Mega Aggron. Making aggressive predictions is advised, since the idea behind this set is to take advantage of the surprise factor and take advantage of Pokemon that would normally attempt to take on the defensive set like Amoonguss and Primarina. Furthermore, Choice Band forces Swampert to lock itself into one move, so not making the necessary predictions can cause a big loss of momentum. Ice Punch should be the primary move used early-game, because it hits most of Swampert's conventional checks like Hydreigon and Celebi for a lot of damage, whereas Toxic is only meant to be used on Pokemon that Swampert isn't capable of breaking through, such as Alomomola and Chesnaught. Avoid using it in any other circumstances, however, since Swampert can be taken advantage of once it's locked into it. Once it has weakened its own checks, Swampert is free to start utilizing its powerful Choice Band-boosted STAB attacks, weakening the opposing team even further and making room for a cleaner to come in later on and sweep. It should be noted that Choice Band Swampert isn't as durable as the defensive set, as it doesn't have the same defensive investment or Leftovers recovery, meaning that it should be played more carefully, especially against threats like Terrakion and Scizor. Team Options Choice Band Swampert finds itself most comfortable on offensive teams that appreciate its ability to break through the opposing team and provide an immunity to Volt Switch. Swampert can easily punch holes in teams and break through defensive cores, so cleaners that can make use of that like Double Dance Cobalion and Dragon Dance Mega Altaria are very good partners for it. Pokemon that can check Grass-types such as Hydreigon and Gengar also pair well with Swampert, as it's threatened by them a lot. Swampert is a relatively bulky Pokemon, but it shouldn't be used as the main check to Pokemon like Terrakion and Cobalion due to the lack of defensive investment. Thus, adequate checks to those Pokemon like Doublade, Latias, and Moltres make good teammates. Entry hazard setters like Terrakion, Nihilego, and Klefki can slightly improve Swampert's wallbreaking capabilities by ensuring a 2HKO or an OHKO on certain Pokemon. It has a good chance to OHKO Hydreigon with Ice Punch if Stealth Rock is on the field, for example. Additionally, Klefki can also cripple the opposing team with Thunder Wave, alleviating the effects of Swampert's low Speed.

Moves Swampert's combination of STAB moves and Ice Punch hits hard and threatens Defoggers like Rotom-Heat, Gligar, and Hydreigon. Additionally, Ice Punch covers more Pokemon that would otherwise bother Swampert like Latias and Celebi. Set Details The EVs provided allow Swampert to outpace Pokemon with uninvested base 80 Speed like defensive Mega Altaria. Life Orb gives Swampert a significant boost, letting it OHKO Cobalion with Earthquake. Life Orb's recoil helps activate Torrent to make Waterfall OHKO Hippowdon and offensive Scizor after Spikes. Usage Tips Swampert sets up Stealth Rock easily by forcing out common Pokemon like Mega Manectric lacking Hidden Power Grass, Cobalion, and Hippowdon. To keep Stealth Rock up, it should aggressively call out switches and stay-ins as its coverage for common entry hazard removers like Empoleon and Tentacruel is strong. It can also lure Pokemon like Mega Altaria and Celebi in and nail them with Ice Punch. While Swampert has a good defensive typing, it should switch into Pokemon like Mega Aerodactyl and offensive Rotom-Heat sparingly due to its lack of investment in bulk. Team Options Offensive Swampert fits nicely into teams that value its wallbreaking potential as a Stealth Rock setter and its good defensive typing to check foes like Mega Aerodactyl. On entry hazard-stacking teams, Klefki and Froslass provide Spikes and appreciate Swampert beating hazard removers Rotom-Heat and Gligar. Spikes also helps Swampert remove Amoonguss with Ice Punch and facilitates a sweep from Pokemon like Mega Sharpedo and Swords Dance Mimikyu. Swampert itself supports Mega Sharpedo and Mimikyu by heavily damaging bulky Pokemon like Mega Aggron and Mega Steelix. Other sweepers like Dragon Dance Mega Altaria and Swords Dance Scizor are also more threatening with hazard support. In return, Mega Altaria and Scizor are adequate answers for Grass-types like Celebi and Rotom-Mow. Bisharp makes for a strong Defog deterrent and capitalizes on Swampert checking Pokemon like Cobalion and Mega Aerodactyl. Both Scizor and Bisharp appreciate Swampert answering Rotom-Heat. Swampert is unable to get past bulky Water-types like Slowbro and Alolmomola, so Pokemon like Mega Manectric and Calm Mind Latias are helpful.

Moves Yawn should be used against Pokemon like Charizard, Sawk, Crustle, and Haxorus. Protect is used in combination with Yawn to ensure that the foe falls asleep the next turn by preventing Mega Swampert from getting attacked or being affected by Encore, status conditions, or Encore from Pokemon like Mega Lopunny. Earthquake is Mega Swampert's most powerful STAB move, hitting extremely hard with investment and a base 150 Attack stat. This allows it to KO Pokemon it doesn't need Yawn to win against, like Zeraora, Magnezone, and Blacephalon. Ice Beam allows Mega Swampert to deal with the many Flying-types that are immune to Earthquake and hit specific Pokemon 4x super effectively, including metagame staples like Landorus-T, Garchomp, Dragonite, and Zygarde. Set Details 208 HP EVs are used to maximize Mega Swampert's great mixed bulk by allowing it to take a Dragonium Z-boosted Outrage from Dragonite, as well as anything physical nukes like Mega Medicham and Mega Lopunny can throw at it so it can use Yawn against them on turn 1. 248 Special Defense EVs paired with this HP investment allow Mega Swampert to beat both Normalium Z and Choice Scarf Porygon-Z by taking Breakneck Blitz and preventing Uproar from Choice Scarf variants from 2HKOing it. 36 Special Attack EVs are needed to guarantee that Ice Beam 2HKOes maximum HP Dragonite. The Attack stat is where the remaining EVs go. A Brave nature allows Mega Swampert to not hinder its Special Attack while increasing its Attack at the expense of its Speed, a stat it does not need very much. This still gives it enough Speed to outspeed uninvested base 60s like bulky Primarina and Incineroar. An alternative EV spread of 248 HP / 28 Atk / 232 SpA with a Brave nature can be used to guarantee that Ice Beam will OHKO Landorus-T and Garchomp and 2HKO Groundium Z Zygarde without having to worry about potential Substitute mind games. Usage Tips Do not send Mega Swampert into versatile Pokemon like Mega Charizard Y, Greninja, and Hoopa-U, as they can try to lure in Mega Swampert with their Grass-type coverage. Usually, it's not a good idea to pick Mega Swampert versus stall Pokemon like Mega Sableye, Type: Null, and Registeel, as they can nullify Yawn's usefulness and boost their defenses. Sadly, bulky Dragon Dance Mega Charizard X and Mega Gyarados can forgo Mega Evolving and immunize themselves to Earthquake while shaking off Ice Beam with ease thanks to their secondary typings, so picking Mega Swampert into common Fire / Water / Grass cores with these Pokemon is not advised. Using Protect on turn 1 is advised versus powerful Fake Out users like Mega Medicham and Flail Mega Lopunny to prevent chip damage that might otherwise let them OHKO Mega Swampert. It is also important to use Protect turn 1 when facing off against Porygon-Z, as this allows you to scout if it uses Uproar, in which case you can proceed to use Earthquake twice, as Uproar does not 2HKO Mega Swampert, and Earthquake will always 2HKO Porygon-Z. Team Options Fire-types like Mega Charizard X and Mega Charizard Y deserve a special mention for their ability to counter Steel- and Grass-types that Mega Swampert struggles with such as Magearna, Registeel, Tapu Bulu, Serperior, and Ferrothorn, as well as Will-O-Wisp users such as Volcarona. Mega Swampert, in return, can take care of Ground- and Rock-type Pokemon that counter them such as non-Magnet Rise Mega Diancie, Donphan, Garchomp, and Archeops. Grass + Steel types like Kartana and Ferrothorn are fitting partners for Mega Swampert, as they counter opposing Grass- and Water-types such as Whimsicott, Tapu Bulu, Mega Gyarados, and Tapu Fini with their secondary STAB options. Furthermore, their secondary Steel typing helps versus Fairy-type Pokemon that Mega Swampert struggles with such as Clefable and Taunt / Will-O-Wisp Mega Gardevoir. Mega Swampert, in return, takes care of most of the Fire-, Poison-, and Fighting-types that threaten them such as Blacephalon, Nagandel, and Mega Lopunny. Along with that, Pokemon that carry multi-hit moves and sound-based moves to get through Substitute, a direct counter to Yawn, match well with Mega Swampert. Notable examples include Mega Heracross and Volcarona, with the former being a great Will-O-Wisp absorber thanks to its pre-Mega ability in Guts and access to Bullet Seed and Pin Missile to hit Water- and Grass-types hiding behind Substitute like Greninja, Primarina, Serperior, and Whimsicott, as well as access to Close Combat to counter bulky Normal-types like Chansey, Porygon2, and Type: Null. Mega Swampert, in return, can deal with Pokemon Mega Heracross struggles against including Flying-types like Flyinium Z Dragonite, Flyinium Z Landorus-T, and non-Substitute Mega Pinsir, as well as some offensive Fire-types including Mega Blaziken and Victini. Volcarona also helps take care of Steel-types not hit hard by Earthquake and problematic Psychic-types such as Celesteela, Magnet Rise Mega Metagross, Mega Mawile, and Necrozma thanks to its unique Fire / Bug typing while also utilizing Bug Buzz to hit through Substitute and inflicting special damage to complement Mega Swampert's physical attacking prowess. Mega Swampert, in return, helps counter Rock-type Pokemon like Golem and Crustle and Pokemon carrying Rock-type coverage such as Stone Edge Sawk and Stone Edge Garchomp.

Mega Swampert’s high Attack gives it a niche over other Swim Swim users such as Ludicolo and Kingdra. Ice Punch is typically the best coverage move for Water-resistant Dragon- and Grass-types such as Salamence and Amoonguss, although Superpower hits Mega Kangaskhan and Ferrothorn and Rock Slide OHKOes Mega Charizard Y as it attempts to reset sun. Damp is chosen over the useless Torrent in case Explosion is used as Swampert switches in. The EVs and nature let Mega Swampert outpace Choice Scarf Landorus-T in rain while maximizing Attack. Drizzle Pelipper is often the preferred ally over Politoed due to its Ground immunity.

Moves Stealth Rock breaks opposing Focus Sash and gets useful residual damage against the opposing team that Swampert's teammates take out opposing threats like Zapdos more easily. Scald is used to get burns against threats that would normally switch in on Swampert, wearing them down. Roar prevents sweepers from easily setting up on Swampert because of its lack of offensive presence. Earthquake is used to hit the Electric-types that give Swampert's teammates a lot of trouble. Toxic can be used in order to put timers on opposing Pokemon, namely opposing walls such as Porygon2, as well as Pokemon that try to Defog away its Stealth Rock such as Zapdos and Mantine. Set Details Maximum Defense and HP investment paired with a Relaxed nature gives Swampert enough bulk to take hits from imposing physical attackers. Torrent is the preferred ability, as it gives a weakened Swampert a strong Scald. Furthermore, Explosion and Self-Destruct are not relevant, so Damp wouldn't have any use. Leftovers is used to make up for Swampert’s lack of a reliable recovery move. However, Swampertite is another possible item because Mega Evolving gives Swampert better bulk. Usage Tips In general, Swampert should be the lead, as getting Stealth Rock up as soon as possible is very important. As it has a very important utility role on the team, Swampert receiving too much damage when its Electric immunity is essential should be avoided. It should also be preserved in matchups where Stealth Rock pressure and the ability to phaze sweepers are extremely important. Another way to ensure Swampert's longevity is to prevent it from being hit by Knock Off, which removes its only form of recovery. In addition, it should not take too much residual damage from entry hazards and must not be affected by status such as burn or poison. Therefore, Swampert shouldn't stay in on walls known for carrying status moves such as Porygon2. Despite this, Swampert can take the burn for a teammate if absolutely necessary, as it relies more on spreading burns with Scald than actually being a physically offensive threat. While Swampert is used for its Electric immunity, it needs to be wary of the many Electric-types that carry Grass-type coverage. It is essential to be careful around Pokemon like Tapu Koko, Xurkitree, and Alolan Raichu, which can proceed to trample the team if they catch Swampert with a Grass-type move. To prevent Swampert from being setup bait, use Roar to force out Pokemon that try taking advantage of its passive nature. Said move also prevents opponents from pulling double switches and in fact should be used to push out incoming threats while also slowly weakening them with residual damage. Swampert can safely pivot in on threatening physical attackers and cripple them with burns. In similar fashion, its Scald can also be used to burn bulkier threats. If Swampertite is being used instead of Leftovers, it is essential to Mega Evolve immediately to get the increase in bulk. However, defensive Mega Swampert needs to be played with very carefully because it has absolutely no form of recovery. Team Options Gyarados is a great sweeper that can check the Grass-type Pokemon that threaten Swampert thanks to its Water / Flying typing and access to Supersonic Skystrike. Also, Swampert can safely switch into the Electric-type and Rock-type attacks directed at Gyarados. While not a sweeper like Gyarados, Mantine is a great partner for similar reasons. Together with Swampert, it forms a solid defensive core in which each Pokemon can safely take the attacks that would be super effective on the other. Mantine can also assist Swampert in shutting down setup sweepers by neutering special attackers like Volcarona with Haze. Toxapex can also easily switch in on Grass-type attacks, wear down the opposing team with Toxic Spikes, and use Haze to render setup sweepers useless. Tapu Fini prevents status and entry hazards from causing too much residual damage to Swampert thanks to Misty Terrain and Defog. In addition, it also handles the Dragon-type Pokemon that Swampert struggles against. Calm Mind Mega Slowbro takes the dangerous physical attacks that would hurt Swampert too much. Another amazing Calm Mind user is Substitute + Calm Mind Suicune, which is an excellent partner because of its ability to completely break down teams and stall out Mega Venusaur. Mega Sharpedo and Mega Gyarados take advantage of the residual damage caused by Swampert’s Stealth Rock and Scald burns to sweep opposing teams. Greninja can also sweep opposing teams with support from Swampert while also checking threats that completely wall it such as Grass-types, Dragon-types, and bulky Psychic-types with moves like Ice Beam, Gunk Shot, Hidden Power Fire, and Dark Pulse. Another special attacking option would be Keldeo, which can assist Swampert by taking on threats like the Eviolite core of Chansey + Porygon2.

Moves Stealth Rock facilitates sweeping for Mega Swampert and it’s teammates by breaking Focus Sash and weakening the opposing team with residual damage. Overall, it helps Mega Swampert's teammates KO opposing threats like Zapdos much more easily. Waterfall is a powerful STAB move that is used to sweep opposing teams in the rain. Earthquake is the STAB attack that can be used to beat Pokemon that Waterfall can’t such as Toxapex, Volcanion and Jellicent. Ice Punch allows Mega Swampert to hit Dragon and Grass-type Pokemon that it would otherwise have trouble getting past such as Latios, Dragonite, and Breloom for super effective damage. Set Details 252 Attack EVs paired with an Adamant nature allow Mega Swampert to sweep in rain. 4 Special Defense EVs prevent Pokemon with the Download ability from getting a Special Attack boost when they switch into Swampert. 252 Speed EVs and Swift Swim allow Mega Swampert to outspeed a big part of the metagame in rain, therefore placing a lot of pressure on the opposing team. Usage Tips Swampert should be used as a lead to get up Stealth Rock early-game. This puts a lot of pressure on the opponent, limiting their switches. However, be wary of Grass-type coverage on Electric-type Pokemon. Swampert won't always be able to freely get up Stealth Rock against them. It is crucial to avoid being crippled by burns, which render Mega Swampert practically useless for the remainder of the battle. In fact, it is best to save Mega Swampert for a late-game sweep once its threats are either weakened or knocked out. Also, it should absolutely be used only in rain to sweep and break teams. Outside of rain, it would be too slow to perform as a sweeper and would lack slightly in power without the rain boost on Waterfall. Fast Choice Scarf users, such as Latios and Terrakion, should be removed before Mega Swampert attempts to sweep because they can possibly revenge kill Mega Swampert even with its Swift Swim boost. Team Options Pelipper is a crucial partner for Mega Swampert, as it can set rain, get rid of entry hazards, and allow Mega Swampert to take advantage of rain on several occasions thanks to its nice bulk and access to recovery. With access to U-turn, Pelipper can safely bring in Mega Swampert once the rain is up. To support Pelipper, Politoed with Eject Button can be used as a secondary rain setter. Its item will allow Swampert to safely enter the battle without suffering too much unnecessary damage. Kingdra is an amazing Pokemon to pair with Mega Swampert, as it helps it in sweeping and breaking the opposing team under rain. While Mega Swampert can take care of more specially defensive Pokemon, Kingdra can attack the physically defensive ones. Also, it handles the Dragon-types that Swampert can't touch without Ice Punch. Gyarados and Manaphy are great Z-Move users to pair up with Mega Swampert because they both can check Mega Venusaur. Gyarados in particular has great synergy because Mega Swampert can switch in on the super effective Electric-type and Rock-type attacks. Choice Band Azumarill helps break frustrating defensive cores like Porygon + Chansey and Cradily + Ferrothorn. It can also help against Dragon-types. Likewise, Keldeo is another Pokemon that can help break those defensive cores while simply being a reliable sweeper to assist the team. Greninja can set up Spikes to cause even more residual damage to the opposing team and also be an offensive threat with its wide variety of coverage moves. It can help against the Grass-types, Dragon-types, and Psychic-types that are quite troublesome for Mega Swampert. On the more defensive side, Toxapex is also an interesting partner that can wear down the opposing team with Toxic Spikes. This makes it easier for Mega Swampert to sweep as the game progresses. Also, it can safely switch in on attacks aimed at Swampert such as Grass-type ones.

Moves Waterfall is Mega Swampert's most reliable Water-type attack as well as its hardest-hitting STAB attack overall in rain. Earthquake is a secondary STAB move that provides spread coverage, allows Mega Swampert to hit hard against bulky Water-types like Volcanion and Tapu Fini, and works well as an attack for cleaning up against weakened targets late-game. Superpower offers super effective coverage against targets like Kartana, Kyurem-B, and Ferrothorn. Protect keeps Mega Swampert safe while its partners deal with any possible threats. Ice Punch can be used to score OHKOs on Landorus-T, Mega Salamence, and Zygarde while also providing coverage against Grass-types like Amoonguss and Tapu Bulu. Set Details Maximum investment in Attack and Speed allows Mega Swampert to hit as hard and fast as possible. Adamant is generally the preferred nature for maximum power. However, a Jolly nature is necessary for Mega Swampert to outspeed Choice Scarf Genesect, Choice Scarf Victini, +1 Speed Volcarona, and Tailwind-boosted Zapdos. The power drop inherent to running Jolly is noticeable, though. Neither of Swampert's pre-Mega abilities have much competitive value, but Damp has a small niche in preventing Explosion, while there is never a good reason to attack before Swampert Mega Evolves to utilize Torrent. Usage Tips Mega Swampert and its respective rain setter make for excellent leads that apply immediate offensive pressure when the opponent isn't carrying their own weather setter. When faced with weather teams, consider playing Mega Swampert more conservatively, opting to take out the opponent's weather setter first if possible; Mega Swampert becomes dead weight once Swift Swim deactivates. When leading with Mega Swampert, don't feel obligated to lead with the rain setter as well. Swampert is always guaranteed a Swift Swim Speed boost on the turn it Mega Evolves if a rain setter is switched in on that turn, so you can lead with a second offensive option and switch it out for your rain setter if you deem the Swift Swim boost desirable on that turn. While Mega Swampert is often a great lead, it is sometimes better to keep it in the back it as a late-game cleaner if you're able to clear out Mega Swampert's checks and counters beforehand. When in play, Swampert's main goal is to spam Waterfall and Earthquake to break down the opposing team. Thanks to its good bulk and great defensive typing, Mega Swampert isn't really threatened by most attackers under rain, so it can leverage its bulk and power to consistently apply offensive pressure while wearing down opposing targets. Just stay clear of any potential Grass-type attacks! The opponent will be tempted to switch in an Intimidate user like Mega Salamence or Landorus-T to drop Mega Swampert's power, so factor that into your expectations about Swampert's damage output, and try to catch Mega Salamence and Landorus-T with an Ice Punch on their switch in. If using Superpower, keep in mind that it is going to drop Swampert's Attack and Defense, potentially making it dead weight. Team Options A rain setter is a mandatory partner for teams with Mega Swampert. Pelipper has phenomenal synergy with Mega Swampert, allowing Mega Swampert to freely spam Earthquake and KOing Electric-types that threaten Pelipper like Tapu Koko. On the other hand, Politoed can provide Helping Hand support to cancel out potential Intimidate drops. It is really important to bring strong checks to Grass-types like Tapu Bulu, Kartana, and Amoonguss, since bulky rain teams with Mega Swampert struggle to check these threats. Pelipper can help check Tapu Bulu and Amoonguss, but consider incorporating additional checks like Ferrothorn and Genesect to beat Tapu Bulu and having Tapu Lele and Kyurem-B to beat Amoonguss. Checks to opposing weather, especially sun, are important. Landorus-T is a solid option for checking both Mega Charizard Y and Tyranitar. Tapu Koko is a good check to Mega Charizard Y, and it is also a fast attacker that functions outside of rain. Stealth Rock setters like Ferrothorn and Landorus-T can punish opponents that repeatedly switch in Intimidate users like Mega Salamence, weather setters like Mega Charizard Y, and speed control users like Zapdos and Kyurem-B. Ferrothorn enjoys working with rain teams, as they naturally pressure the Fire-types it hates. In return, Ferrothorn is a decent bulky pivot, checks Tapu Fini (a Pokemon typically used on teams as a rain check), helps check opposing rain teams, and serves as a reliable late-game win condition. Other Options Stealth Rock supports Swampert's team by chipping opposing threats like Zapdos and Kyurem-B. Additionally, opponents often use Protect to stall out turns of rain, giving Swampert the free turn to set them up. Stomping Tantrum can be used over Earthquake to allow Mega Swampert to freely use its Ground-type attack without regard for its ally. However, the loss of spread coverage is noticeable at times. Aqua Tail is an option over Waterfall for more power at the expense of accuracy. Checks and Counters Grass-types: Tapu Bulu lowers the damage dealt by Earthquake, easily takes a Waterfall, and OHKOes Swampert with Wood Hammer or Horn Leech. Amoonguss tanks hits from Swampert and potentially hits hard with Giga Drain. Solar Beam from Mega Charizard Y and Energy Ball from Genesect are also things to watch out for. Water-types: Bulky Water-types like Tapu Fini and Suicune can comfortably retaliate with STAB Water-type attacks that are boosted by the same rain that Mega Swampert relies on. Gastrodon even has Storm Drain to prevent Swampert's Waterfall from hitting its intended target. Intimidate: Intimidate users like Mega Salamence and Landorus-T reduce Swampert's ability to break through an opposing team, but they do risk taking a Waterfall or Ice Punch in retaliation. Opposing Weather: Mega Swampert becomes somewhat dead weight outside of rain, since it relies on its Swift Swim Speed boost to maintain its offensive pressure. Therefore, opposing weather setters like Mega Charizard Y and Tyranitar can be problematic. Tailwind, Trick Room, and Icy Wind: Mega Swampert relies on its high Speed to maintain momentum, so opposing speed control is disruptive. Tailwind setters like Zapdos and Mew negate Mega Swampert's Swift Swim Speed boost, while Trick Room setters like Bronzong and Porygon2 can reverse it. Kyurem-B can wall a non-Superpower Mega Swampert and whittle down its Speed with Icy Wind.

Moves Swampert's good defensive typing, natural bulk, and EV investment combine to make it a viable Stealth Rock user that few Pokemon can threaten to immediately take down. Yawn prevents a foe from freely setting up on Swampert and can potentially provide an ideal setup condition for a teammate once a foe knocks out Swampert. Roar can forcefully remove a foe from the field, punishing Substitute users and racking up damage with Stealth Rock if a foe struggles to swiftly take down Swampert. Scald's burn chance may be counterproductive with Yawn inducing sleep, but Swampert's ability to at worst mildly annoy most foes that it leads against helps separate itself from Hippowdon. Earthquake prevents Swampert from being completely passive and hits foes like Mega Gengar, Mega Mawile, and Heatran. Set Details Maximum investment in HP and Special Defense makes Swampert more difficult to break through for special attackers like Tapu Lele and Protean Greninja. A physically defensive EV spread with an Impish nature makes it possible for Swampert to better take hits against Pokemon like Landorus-T and Mega Charizard X and, notably, survive a boosted Double-Edge from Mega Salamence. Sitrus Berry enables Swampert to avoid a 2HKO from powerful attacks like Landorus-T's Earthquake, but Rindo Berry can be used to avoid being OHKOed by Mega Charizard Y's Solar Beam as well as Blaziken and Heatran's Bloom Doom. Rindo Berry also enables Swampert to survive Protean Greninja's Life Orb-boosted Grass Knot and grants it a higher chance to survive Bloom Doom. Usage Tips Swampert differentiates itself from other dedicated leads with limited options for foes to KO it before it uses Stealth Rock and other annoying status moves. If Grass-types are not present on the opposing team, Swampert will make for an effective lead the majority of the time due to its solid bulk and decent offensive presence. However, an opponent may use unusual Pokemon against Swampert, such as Greninja, Heatran, and Blaziken. This may be due to their potential to carry Grass-type moves that will swiftly take out Swampert, so if Swampert lacks a Rindo Berry, exercise caution against them. Depending on the foe, make appropriate decisions about what utility move should be used first. If Pokemon like Mega Salamence seem to be present on the opposing team and teammates will need prior damage to surmount them, prioritize setting up Stealth Rock. Against setup sweepers where a single free turn can bring harsh consequences, use Yawn first. If an opponent lacks Pokemon that will effectively pressure Swampert, focus on putting a Pokemon to sleep and chipping the opposing team as much as possible. Team Options Similarly to many teammates of a dedicated lead, powerful threats like Blaziken, Mega Salamence, and both formes of Mega Charizard can take advantage of the Stealth Rock support and a foe potentially being put to sleep. These Pokemon can also take advantage of Grass-types that attempt to lead against Swampert and limit its attempt to utilize Stealth Rock and Yawn. Tapu Lele can appreciate Swampert and its aforementioned partners applying massive pressure against Steel-types. It has room to customize its set to aid the team's matchup against faster teams by running a Choice Scarf set or by taking advantage of a foe being put to sleep and using Calm Mind to become more threatening. Mimikyu serves as a nice backup to foes that Swampert cannot sufficiently cover. It also packs Swords Dance to take advantage of foes being put to sleep, as well as other moves like Shadow Sneak and Let's Snuggle Forever to swiftly take out setup sweepers that may get out of hand in case Swampert can not handle them adequately.

Moves Waterfall has the highest damage output of Mega Swampert's attacks under rain, and it can outright OHKO foes like Tapu Koko, Tapu Lele, and uninvested Mimikyu. Earthquake is the biggest draw to using Mega Swampert, as it has a high damage output against foes like Toxapex, Tapu Fini, and Primarina that are otherwise good checks to many Pokemon commonly employed on rain teams. Ice Punch is the best option that Mega Swampert can rely on to punish Grass-types like Breloom, Tapu Bulu, and Serperior. Ice Punch also has a varying damage output against Mega Salamence and Landorus-T (though note that Waterfall in the rain does more damage to Landorus-T), which can be lethal should they lack defensive investment. Substitute eases prediction against foes that attempt to switch around and wait for rain to stop, helps against Sucker Punch Mega Mawile and punishes Celesteela and Rotom-Wash, which can survive a hit and respond with status moves. Rock Tomb OHKOes Mega Charizard Y on the switch, and it eases the matchup against Mega Salamence and Mega Gyarados, which can use their abilities and typings to pivot into Mega Swampert until the rain stops. When rain support isn't available, Rock Tomb also eases the matchup against Mimikyu. Rain Dance is useful for setting up rain in case your rain setter has been KOed or you predict Mega Charizard Y to switch in. Set Details An Adamant nature is typically preferred to secure OHKOs against Tapu Lele and uninvested Landorus-T with an appropriate move and maximize Earthquake's damage output against Mega Metagross. Though it involves sacrificing a lot of power, a Jolly nature is possible to outspeed +1 Adamant Mega Salamence, Garchomp, and Choice Scarf Kartana. Damp prevents moves like Explosion, notably from Landorus-T, which may otherwise heavily damage Swampert before Mega Evolution. Usage Tips Though Mega Swampert is difficult to deal with under the rain, it won't be too common for it to outright sweep the opposing team by itself. Most teams in Battle Spot Singles have airborne Pokemon to force mind games, and the prevalence of Focus Sash means it is likely that Mega Swampert is going to be revenge killed even when the matchup is in its favor. Therefore, it is typically better for Mega Swampert to focus on netting as much damage as possible during the rain. Unless there are Grass-types that can switch into Mega Swampert relatively easily and quickly force a switch, Mega Swampert can make aggressive moves to weaken various Pokemon and possibly benefit a secondary rain sweeper or another Pokemon on its team. Avoid needlessly wasting health against foes like Porygon2 and Ferrothorn that can win one-on-one and heal off the damage taken. Rather, be patient until they are sufficiently weakened or taken out by other teammates, as weakening Mega Swampert reduces the odds it can survive a hit against foes that it cannot outright run over. If teammates cannot effectively deal with a specific Pokemon, consider taking advantage of Waterfall's considerable chance to cause a flinch. Team Options A Pokemon with Drizzle is mandatory for Mega Swampert to immediately activate Swift Swim. Pelipper and Politoed are options, and Pelipper is typically preferred due to its ability to threaten Grass-types like Tapu Bulu with Hurricane and access to U-turn. However, Politoed is able to annoy Baton Pass teams with Perish Song and is bulkier, meaning it has more opportunities to set up rain throughout the game compared to Pelipper. It also is better at stomaching hits and bringing in Mega Swampert safely if its Eject Button is intact. Mega Swampert typically needs assistance from other offensive teammates, as it is common for most teams to be naturally prepared to stop it in some way. Kingdra can be a viable teammate should an opponent lack a solid Grass-type Pokemon to keep both Mega Swampert and Kingdra in check, and its ability to dispose of physical walls and Dragon-type Pokemon - particularly Mega Salamence, which can be an annoyance due to Intimidate and its resistance or immunity to Mega Swampert's moves - is appreciated. There has to be a sufficient countermeasure for Grass-types, as a rain setter and Mega Swampert struggle to effectively deal with them. Kartana can threaten Tapu Bulu, Ferrothorn, and some Water-types, and it can benefit from Mega Swampert at worst weakening Mega Salamence and taking advantage of Celesteela if using Substitute. Ferrothorn can be used as an effective check to Serperior under rain and pivot into other Grass-types. Tapu Koko and Thundurus-T don't necessarily have good offensive or defensive synergy with Mega Swampert, but they can outpace many foes and fire strong Thunders under the rain, taking care of problematic Water-types that can force hesitation from Mega Swampert. Thundurus-T in particular can break through bulkier threats with Nasty Plot-boosted attacks, defeat Ferrothorn with Focus Blast, and even lure in Tapu Bulu and remove it with Sludge Wave if using a Choice Scarf set. Aegislash can be considered, as it can check Breloom and benefit from the offensive pressure applied to many Fire-types. Though they find it difficult to function under the rain, Fire-type Pokemon like Mega Charizard X and Y and Volcarona can be employed and supported by different teammates to punish Grass-types that are enticed by Mega Swampert's rain core from Team Preview.

Moves Curse gives Mega Swampert the opportunity to clean more defensive teams with a few boosts due to its great defenses and powerful attacks after even one boost. Earthquake is its main STAB move and has decent neutral coverage in the tier. Rest prevents Mega Swampert from getting worn down too easily on account of its notable lack of reliable recovery. Ice Punch and Earthquake provide great coverage, with Ice Punch hitting the Flying-types, Grass-types, and Levitate users that Earthquake cannot touch. However, Scald is a fantastic option if the aforementioned threats don't present a problem for the rest of Swampert's team, as it is a very safe option most of the time and can make setting up on physical attackers far easier. Set Details A specially defensive EV spread and a Careful nature are needed in order to avoid being easily weakened by powerful special attackers such as Hydreigon; for instance, with this set, defensive Whimsicott's Giga Drain is a mere 3HKO. A Sassy nature is to be used if Scald is preferred to preserve the move's damage output. Damp allows Swampert to switch in on an Explosion from a Pokemon such as Forretress. An alternate EV spread is 248 HP / 16 Atk / 244 SpD backed by an Adamant nature. This EV spread's selling point is checking Calm Mind Reuniclus by 2HKOing it after just one Curse. Some other impressive feats, including 2HKOing Calm Florges and OHKOing Hoopa without any boosts, are within reach with this spread. Usage Tips While Mega Swampert needs Grass-types and some wallbreakers to be taken out before attempting to clean, try to use it actively, without attempting to clean the opposing team too early. Mega Swampert is a great defensive asset and should be widely used during a game. Try to Mega Evolve as soon as possible, as Mega Evolving translates to significantly higher Attack and defenses, making switching in far easier. This set performs fairly well against stall, as it can outlast several common opposing setup sweepers. Keep in mind that this set is not vulnerable to Foul Play; Mega Swampert has no problem setting up against the majority of the walls in the tier. Team Options Clerics, prime examples of which include Umbreon and Florges, are crucial, especially with this set being widely used on stall. Defensive Pokemon that cover Swampert's hindering Grass-type weakness, such as bulky Mandibuzz, are very appreciated. Additional special walls are usually needed, as this set isn't that suited to checking some special wallbreakers. This makes Blissey a phenomenal addition, as it is the best option in UU and can also act as a cleric. Because, for the most part, Mega Swampert cannot switch in on very powerful physical wallbreakers, teammates that can, such as the aforementioned Nidoqueen, are quite important. Entry hazard setters, such as Forretress and Roserade, make Mega Swampert's cleaning role substantially easier to fill. Wish passers like Blissey and Umbreon allow Mega Swampert to switch into more attacks and use Rest less frequently.

Moves Stealth Rock is used for racking up entry hazard damage, while Earthquake is a powerful STAB option even with little investment. Scald is a secondary STAB option with a 30% chance to burn, increasing Swampert's utility. Roar allows Swampert to phaze, with an added benefit of accumulating Stealth Rock damage. Toxic allows Swampert to spread status around, contributing to wallbreaking and sweeping, and Protect allows Swampert to scout against Choiced Pokemon. Alternatively, Ice Beam can be used to nail Grass-types and Dragon-types, such as Rotom-C, Whimsicott, and Hydreigon, for decent damage. Set Details The EV spread allows Swampert to take on most non-Choice Band attackers and set up Stealth Rock, while also hitting a Leftovers number. Leftovers is used for passive recovery and overall longevity. Torrent should be the primary option, as it lets Swampert score extra 2HKOs with Scald once it activates. Damp can be used to prevent the rare Self-Destruct or Explosion. Swampert can also use a specially defensive set, with an EV spread of 240 HP / 16 Atk / 252 SpD and a Sassy nature. Usage Tips Swampert should be used as a defensive wall and entry hazard shuffler. Swampert acts as a decent lead, as it can take on frail Choice Scarf leads such as Darmanitan as well as Nidoking and Mega Absol and can usually dominate most offensive Pokemon when it has the type advantage. Mixed attacking options mean Swampert can take on burn-inflicting Pokemon such as defensive Arcanine and Choice Band Entei. Team Options Swampert is useful on stall, semi-stall, and balance cores. As such, it partners well with specially defensive Wish users and clerics such as Blissey, Umbreon, and Florges, as they keep Swampert healthy and extend its walling potential. Swampert also partners well with offensive pivots and other U-turn users such as Crobat and Darmanitan which can pivot into Swampert when their matchups are unfavourable. Swampert provides reliable wall support to the plethora of Pokemon, including Florges, Crobat, Machamp, and Shaymin, to name a few, that need a defensive check against Fire-type wallbreakers. Swampert appreciates both offensive and defensive Ghost-types such as Chandelure and Cofagrigus for spinblocking support and for taking defensive pressure off of it by better absorbing Normal- and Fighting-type moves, which are very common. Chandelure in particular can also absorb Fire-type moves via its Flash Fire ability.

Moves Rain Dance activates Swift Swim, allowing Mega Swampert to outspeed the entire unboosted tier. Waterfall is a primary STAB option that receives a 1.5x boost due to rain and has a 20% flinch rate, which partners well with Swift Swim's Speed boost and provides more wallbreaking opportunities. Earthquake is an effective STAB option against most Pokemon that either resist or are immune to Water-type attacks. Ice Punch is used to hit Grass- and Flying-types, while Power-Up Punch allows Mega Swampert to boost its Attack stat and consequently become a much larger threat. Superpower can be used instead to hit common Normal- and Dark-types, including Snorlax, Hydreigon, Blissey, and Umbreon. Ice Beam provides a harder hit on physically defensive Pokemon, such as Chesnaught, while Sludge Wave can be used to OHKO Whimsicott. Set Details An Adamant nature and 252 Attack EVs allow Mega Swampert to hit as hard as possible and 252 Speed EVs ensure that Mega Swampert outspeeds the entire non-Choice Scarf tier as well as any Pokemon at or under base 95 Speed that uses Choice Scarf. Swift Swim doubles Mega Swampert's Speed after a Rain Dance. A Jolly nature can be used in order to outspeed almost all Choice Scarf users in the tier. Usage Tips The first thing Mega Swampert should do is set up Rain Dance in order to optimize its wallbreaking potential. Use it as an early-game wallbreaker or late-game sweeper. Avoid using Mega Swampert as a lead; a bad matchup may take away momentum from your team. Lastly, Mega Swampert is very useful alongside balance and bulky offense playstyles but is not very effective against stall, despite its wallbreaking potential. Team Options Mega Swampert partners well with Pokemon that appreciate rain support, such as Toxicroak or a variety of Hurricane users. Tornadus can set up Rain Dance effectively, setting up Swampert for late-game sweeps. Mega Swampert's Rain Dance aids Swift Swim sweepers such as Kingdra or Ludicolo. Mega Swampert appreciates Wish and cleric support from Pokemon such as Florges or Umbreon. Due to its lack of recovery, Mega Swampert appreciates Rapid Spin support from Forretress or Kabutops. Alternatively, Defog support from Pokemon such as Crobat or Gligar along with U-turn can also be effective in creating wallbreaking opportunities for Mega Swampert.

Moves Scald is Mega Swampert's main STAB attack and helps it check many physical attackers in the metagame due to its burn chance. Earthquake is Mega Swampert's strongest move and does decent damage to neutral targets. Rest is Swampert's only means of recovery and its best chance to prevent getting worn down too much. Sleep Talk allows Mega Swampert to still function as a threatening wall even when asleep due to Rest. Roar is a possible option over Sleep Talk in order to phaze many sweepers that otherwise set up freely on this set, such as Reuniclus; however, it is not the optimal choice, as it leaves Mega Swampert unable to do anything while asleep. Set Details A physically defensive spread is preferred alongside a Relaxed nature in order to counter incredibly powerful physical attackers such as Mamoswine and dangerous sweepers such as Cobalion. Damp allows Swampert to absorb the rare Explosion, which comes mostly from Forretress. Alternatively, a specially defensive spread can be used if it needs to check special attackers such as Chandelure and Nidoking. Usage Tips This set is supposed to be used as a reliable and durable defensive check to many threats in UU, and it must be backed up by other defensive teammates that can cover Mega Swampert's weaknesses to help it slowly wear down the opposing team. Therefore, use this set as a status absorber, given that Mega Swampert can negate any status ailments with Rest. Always use Rest when Mega Swampert's HP is low to prioritize its health. Switching Mega Swampert into a teammate's Wish, such as Blissey's, may be a good idea if it is too low in HP, especially given how slow it is. Team Options Pokemon such as Mandibuzz and Crobat that cover Mega Swampert's hindering weakness to Grass-types are its best teammates. Special walls are greatly needed, as Mega Swampert will have a hard time switching in or even checking powerful special attackers. Blissey and Florges are stellar special walls, and the former also provides Wish support. Pokemon that can check setup sweepers such as Reuniclus, Suicune, and Snorlax, which have no problem dealing with Mega Swampert, are appreciated, as these threats are all extremely effective in UU. Taunt Jellicent and Sableye can deal comfortably with these three. Entry hazard setters are a must in order to wear down the opponent's team; Roserade is a fine option that also shares great defensive synergy with Mega Swampert.

Moves Stealth Rock is used for racking up entry hazard damage. Earthquake is a powerful primary STAB option, especially with investment, and is effective against most Pokemon that either resist or are immune to Water-type attacks. Waterfall is a secondary STAB option. Ice Punch is used to hit Grass- and Flying-types. Superpower can be used instead to hit common Normal- and Dark-types, including Snorlax, Hydreigon, Blissey, and Umbreon, as well as Abomasnow. Alternatively, Ice Beam provides a harder hit on physically defensive Pokemon, such as Chesnaught, while Sludge Wave can be used to OHKO Whimsicott. Set Details 212 HP EVs alongside Mega Swampert's 110 / 110 defenses increase this set's potential to tank hits. 252 Attack EVs with an Adamant nature allow Mega Swampert to be an effective wallbreaker and 44 Speed EVs allow Mega Swampert to outspeed base 65 speed Pokemon prior to Mega Evolution and Florges after Mega Evolution. Usage Tips This set combines the utility of Swampert's good defensive typing and bulk with the prowess of its strong offensive typing and huge Attack. Mega Swampert can be used as a lead, as it can take on frail Choice Scarf leads such as Darmanitan. Swampert can take on frail threats such as Nidoking and Mega Absol in one-on-one situations, and it can usually dominate most offensive and balanced Pokemon when it has the type advantage in said one-on-one situations. Mega Swampert's STAB coverage means it can take on a variety of Pokemon such as Poison-, Ground-, Rock-, and Fire-types. Team Options This Mega Swampert set partners well with specially defensive Wish users and clerics such as Blissey, Umbreon, and Florges, as they keep Mega Swampert healthy and extend its wallbreaking potential. Swampert also partners well with offensive pivots and other U-turn users such as Crobat and Darmanitan which can pivot into Mega Swampert when their matchups are unfavourable. Mega Swampert provides reliable wall support to the plethora of Pokemon, including Florges, Crobat, Machamp, and Shaymin, to name a few, that need a defensive check to Fire-type wallbreakers. Mega Swampert appreciates both offensive and defensive Ghost-types such as Chandelure and Cofagrigus for spinblocking support and for taking defensive pressure off of Swampert by better absorbing common Normal- and Fighting-type moves. Chandelure in particular can also absorb Fire-type moves via its Flash Fire ability.

Only use Mirror Coat when using Rindo Berry. This is a sample set. We aren't working on ORAS Monotype analyses at the moment, but check out ORAS Monotype resources for more information about the metagame.

This is a sample set. We aren't working on ORAS Monotype analyses at the moment, but check out ORAS Monotype resources for more information about the metagame.

Moves Scald serves as Swampert's primary STAB attack, as it has decent power and can chip away at foes with the helpful chance to burn. Earth Power is Swampert's strongest accurate attack, which grants Swampert helpful coverage against threats such as Volcanion and Steel-types such as Aegislash and Jirachi. Ice Beam fills out Swampert's coverage, giving it an option to hit Grass- and Dragon-types that resist its STAB moves while also allowing Swampert to OHKO Landorus-T and deal significant damage to Thundurus. Although Icy Wind is far weaker than Ice Beam, the speed control it provides can greatly help Swampert's teammates with more middling Speed. Wide Guard protects Swampert's allies from any spread attack and fits well on Swampert's moveset due to its good matchup against spread attackers such as Mega Diancie, Heatran, and Landorus-T. Hydro Pump is a viable alternative to Scald; while the drop in accuracy is quite noticeable, so is the increase in power, granting Swampert the ability to OHKO Mega Diancie without a boosting item. Set Details The given EV spread, when accompanied by a Sitrus Berry, allows Swampert to avoid the 2HKO from Life Orb Aegislash's Shadow Ball or Life Orb Talonflame's Brave Bird. Alternatively, an Expert Belt set increases the power behind Swampert's moves and is usable due to its fantastic super effective coverage, though it loses out on the longevity provided by a Sitrus Berry. A Quiet nature is used instead of a Modest one so that Swampert can hit Aegislash in its Blade forme and improve its functionality inside of Trick Room, and its low Speed means that any investment will rarely help under normal field conditions anyway. Damp prevents the rare Explosion Landorus-T or Genesect from dealing major damage to Swampert's team, or Torrent powers up Scald when Swampert is low on health. Both abilities are situational at best, so the choice between the two rarely makes a difference. Usage Tips Use Wide Guard as necessary, otherwise leaning on Swampert's decent coverage to hit many common threats. A lack of Protect can leave Swampert vulnerable to weather sweepers and Fake Out, so it may need to be switched out to avoid taking unnecessary damage. Swampert should generally be saved to beat the threats it defeats especially well, such as Landorus-T, Thundurus, and Heatran. With its solid bulk, Swampert should be able to switch in on those threats and defeat them with ease. However, due to its solid matchup against common leads such as Landorus-T and Thundurus, it can function well as a counter-lead to those threats. Due to its low Speed, Swampert should only rarely be saved for endgame scenarios, as it is unlikely to be able to clean opposing teams. Team Options Any Pokemon that is weak to common spread moves can benefit from Swampert's partnership. Especially noteworthy options include Intimidate users such as Scrafty and Gyarados, which also augment Swampert's bulk, and setup attackers such as Volcarona, Kyurem-B, and Mega Charizard X. Fire-types such as Talonflame, Mega Charizard Y, and Infernape beat Grass-types and appreciate Swampert's Wide Guard stopping Earthquake and Rock Slide. Heatran synergizes particularly well with Swampert, taking advantage of its Wide Guard support to set up Substitutes and remove threatening Grass-types. Dragon-types tend to perform fairly well against Swampert, so teammates to defeat them such as Sylveon and Mega Diancie can serve Swampert quite well. Ice-types are able to defeat Dragon- and Grass-types, so partners such as Weavile and Mega Abomasnow can operate well with Swampert as a partner. Generally speaking, Swampert's anti-meta coverage and defensive utility allow it to fit fairly well on any team, but there are few teams on which it would not be outclassed, so before adding Swampert, make certain that Gastrodon, Suicune, or other Wide Guard users such as Conkeldurr and Aegislash would not better serve the team.

Moves Waterfall is almost always Mega Swampert's best attack, as it is a reliable and strong physical attack that is boosted by rain. Earthquake is its strongest Ground-type STAB move and also gives Mega Swampert a spread option while providing super effective coverage against Volcanion and Steel-types such as Aegislash. For Mega Swampert's third move, Ice Punch hits Grass- and Dragon-types like Amoonguss and Latios for good damage, which Mega Swampert's STAB moves can't, while Superpower provides solid coverage versus Mega Kangaskhan, Kyurem-B, and Ferrothorn. Protect is necessary because Swampert must safely Mega Evolve before it gains Swift Swim. It also either allows Swampert to stay safe from a threat for a turn while its partner deals with said threat or allows you to safely scout for a threat. Set Details Running 252 Attack EVs with an Adamant nature allows Mega Swampert to hit as hard as possible, while 252 Speed EVs let it outspeed all relevant threats while under rain, including Jolly Choice Scarf Landorus-T, Choice Scarf Genesect, and Deoxys-A. For pre-Mega abilities, Damp is superior to Torrent, as you won't ever use Torrent due to Swampert needing to Mega Evolve as soon as possible. Damp can also let Swampert prevent an Explosion while switching in on occasion. Usage Tips Swampert is only good once it has Mega Evolved and is in rain, because otherwise its damage output is relatively low and its Speed is pretty poor. Because of this, try to maximize its time in rain by bringing it into the drizzle as early possible. When Mega Evolving Swampert, make smart use of Protect so that it can gain the Swift Swim Speed boost without consequences. Mega Swampert is best used as a mid- to late-game sweeper, as it can easily clean up once its threats, such as Grass-types and Water-types, are removed. You can also remove said threats while Swampert is on the field by having another Pokemon that can remove them, like Kyurem-B, Latios, or Talonflame, do so before they threaten Swampert. Team Options First and foremost, you almost always need Politoed, as Drizzle automatically sets rain so that you don't need to waste a turn doing so. You should also have some answers to Grass-types, such as Kyurem-B and Talonflame, as they will almost always beat Mega Swampert. Swampert is really weak to sun due to it being OHKOed by common sun Pokemon, like Mega Charizard Y with Solar Beam and Venusaur, so bring a few good sun checks, such as Thundurus and Talonflame. If you aren't running Superpower, strong Fighting-types like Terrakion and Conkeldurr are also good to have in order to beat Ferrothorn and Kyurem-B, which are huge threats to rain. Finally, Ground-immune Pokemon like Latios and Talonflame should be on the team so that you can attack with them while Swampert uses Earthquake.

Moves Scald not only gets a STAB boost but also has a 30% burn chance that is great for hurting a large number of physical attackers in the metagame. Earth Power is Swampert's secondary STAB move that has a chance of lowering the foe's Special Defense and hits only one target, unlike most Ground-type moves. Ice Beam hits Grass- and Dragon-types that resist or are immune to Swampert's STAB combination. Wide Guard works like a team-wide Protect, but it only protects your side against moves that hit more than one target, though many of them are pretty common in the metagame. Set Details The very specific 228 Special Attack EVs allow Swampert to OHKO Landorus-T, Heatran lacking Shuca Berry or Air Balloon, Mega Mawile, Mega Salamence, Talonflame, Garchomp, and offensive Mega Gengar with the appropriate moves. The EVs also allow it to 2HKO Aegislash in Shield forme, Hydreigon, Mega Altaria, Mega Metagross, and most Thundurus variants. The 12 Speed EVs allow Swampert to outspeed uninvested Tyranatar. 236 HP and 28 Defense EVs specifically allow it to survive Mega Kangaskhan's Double-Edge. Usage Tips Thanks to its immunity to Electric, Swampert is best used as a switch-in to Electric-types rather than a lead, but it can switch in on Pokemon such as Landorus, Heatran, and Garchomp as well; it can also work early-game as a counter to Mega Salamence and Landorus-T or as a late-game cleaner, when its checks have been removed. However, if it can't hit any Pokemon for super effective damage or Wide Guard isn't useful, you should remove it from the battlefield, as it will not be an effective Pokemon. Lastly, many unexpected Pokemon can run Grass Knot, so be aware of this possibility. Team Options Talonflame is Swampert's best partner, as it enjoys its Wide Guard support and Swampert appreciates its Grass resistance and coverage moves. Swampert also enjoys teammates such as Mega Charizard Y, Breloom, and Amoonguss, which threaten and force out Grass-types. Lastly, Pokemon that counter Mega Kangaskhan, such as Terrakion, Ferrothorn, and Gengar, are appreciated as well.

Moves Waterfall is Mega Swampert's main STAB move and is boosted by rain; even without rain, it deals very solid damage and has a small chance of making the foe flinch. Earthquake is another STAB move that hits a wide range of Pokemon for neutral damage. Ice Punch hits Grass- and Dragon-types that resist Swampert's STAB moves. Finally, Protect allows Swampert to safely Mega Evolve and scout for the foe's moves. Set Details Swampertite allows Swampert to Mega Evolve. An Adamant nature along with 252 Attack EVs makes Swampert's attacks hit as hard as possible. 148 Speed EVs allow Mega Swampert to outspeed Mega Sceptile under rain, while the rest of the EVs are put into HP to increase its bulk significantly. Its ability, Damp, only comes in handy against the very rare Explosion Mega Glalie, but it changes to Swift Swim when Swampert Mega Evolves. Usage Tips Rain is the most important thing for this set to work, and it needs to be up as much as possible, as Mega Swampert is not very effective without it. Another thing to keep in mind is that Swift Swim doesn't apply on the first turn, so use Protect to Mega Evolve safely. Team Options Politoed is Mega Swampert's best partner, as it is the only Pokemon in the format able to automatically set up rain thanks to its ability. Pokemon with priority moves, such as Tornadus, Thundurus, and Talonflame, are good for both general support and mitigating Swampert's lack of priority. Other rain sweepers such as Ludicolo also make for good partners, as they can take advantage of the rain as well.

Swampert is a great Wide Guard user, blessed with formidable bulk and an excellent typing that makes Fighting-types such as Hitmontop and Conkeldurr jealous. Swampert can take common spread moves such as Blizzard, Rock Slide, and Heat Wave admirably, and the combination of Earthquake and Waterfall makes a great STAB combo. When using Swampert as a lead, keep in mind that Fake Out is in the same priority bracket as Wide Guard, which means that Wide Guard can be stopped. Protect runs on the same counter as Wide Guard, but is a solid move all around to keep Swampert safe from gang attacks and Fake Out. Rock Slide is also an old favorite, as spread moves are appreciated on any team. Ice Beam might look weak given Swampert's average Special Attack, but it still does respectable damage to common Dragon-types. Pokemon that can make use of Wide Guard and take care of Grass-types make great teammates in general. Examples of this are Volcarona, Zapdos, Abomasnow, and Chandelure. Hail teams are usually weak to Heat Wave and Rock Slide, though the buffeting hail can also be a problem for Swampert. Volcarona can actually find time to use Quiver Dance when under Rock Slide protection, or simply singe the competition with its powerful STAB moves. Zapdos can use Heat Wave and form a Discharge + Earthquake combination, while Chandelure appreciates Surf and Rock Slide protection, and can support Swampert with Trick Room. Sandstorm teams love additional protection from rain teams, and Swampert is immune to sandstorm damage courtesy of its Ground typing.

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.

Swampert's excellent typing and natural bulk allow it to stand out as one of the best Water-types in ADV Doubles. Its Ground typing also renders it immune to the barrage of Thunder Waves thrown around in the tier. Additionally, it is virtually impossible to remove in one hit without a STAB Grass-type attack or Explosion, meaning it is efficient at trading positively with its high-power attacks and offensive coverage. Earthquake deals powerful spread damage if both foes are grounded and cleanly 2HKOes Metagross, Tyranitar, and Starmie. Ice Beam hits common Ground resistant Pokemon like Zapdos, Gyarados, and Sceptile. Hydro Pump is Swampert's strongest attack against Pokemon like Gengar, Steelix, and Arcanine, but Waterfall can be used to avoid risking misses at the cost of failing to achieve OHKOs on the latter two Pokemon. The given EV spread gives Swampert enough Attack investment to OHKO Raikou with Earthquake. The HP and Special Defense investment ensure Swampert always survives a Hidden Power Grass from Modest Zapdos, and the remainder is dumped into Special Attack. If using Mystic Water, Swampert can run an EV spread of 216 HP / 84 Atk / 208 SpA to guarantee it OHKOes Tyranitar with Hydro Pump. Quiet nature is used to not inhibit either attacking stat or its bulk, as the Speed tier below Swampert is relatively uncongested. Swampert's immunity to sand damage allows it to capitalize on the passive recovery provided by Leftovers. Swampert is one of the best answers to Tyranitar in the tier, making it a great partner for Pokemon like Raikou, Zapdos, and Gengar, the latter two also providing an immunity to Earthquake for Swampert. Metagross and Arcanine pressure Grass-types like Sceptile and Exeggutor, keeping Swampert safe from being OHKOed. Physical attackers like Tauros and Tyranitar greatly appreciate Swampert's ability to eliminate physical walls like Steelix and Regirock with Hydro Pump.