[1v1] Greninja

[lotiasite]

QC 3/3 GP 1/1

Greninja

Overview

With a high Speed stat, a fantastic offensive Water typing, and an incredible ability in Protean, Greninja is a powerful attacker with several options for taking out different Pokemon. Access to good coverage options such as Ice Beam, Grass Knot, and Gunk Shot allows Greninja to hit a large portion of the metagame for super effective damage, especially when factoring in STAB from Protean. Greninja also has access to Hydro Cannon, which allows it to hit incredibly hard especially with a Waterium Z or Choice Specs equipped. However, Greninja's underwhelming base 103 Special Attack stat doesn't match up to other special hard hitters in the metagame, such as Tapu Lele. This low Special Attack can also make Greninja fall short of some KOs against Pokemon such as Mega Charizard Y. Greninja also has low defensive stats, leaving it very vulnerable to Pokemon that outspeed it and Pokemon that can tank a hit and retaliate with hard-hitting moves of their own.

Choice Specs
Greninja @ Choice Specs
Ability: Protean
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Modest / Timid Nature
- Hydro Cannon
- Dark Pulse
- Ice Beam
- Grass Knot

Set Comments

Moves

Hydro Cannon is Greninja's most powerful move; with an incredible 150 Base Power and Choice Specs, it is capable of OHKOing almost every Pokemon that does not resist it and does not have Sturdy. Greninja also usually does not need to worry about the recharge turn due to 1v1's format, which makes the trade for more power and accuracy over Hydro Pump worth it. Dark Pulse is a coverage option Greninja can use to hit Pokemon such as Mega Metagross, Deoxys-D, and Aegislash for super effective damage while also having a nifty 20% flinch chance that can help out Greninja in a matchup it would normally lose by getting free damage off. Ice Beam is another coverage move that hits Dragon- and Flying-type Pokemon such as Dragonite, Mega Pinsir, and Garchomp while also hitting Grass-type Pokemon such as Whimsicott that resist Hydro Cannon. Grass Knot hits Mega Gyarados, one of the best Pokemon in the current metagame, extremely hard.

Set Details

Maximum investment in Speed and Special Attack lets Greninja hit as hard as possible while outspeeding most threats. Protean grants STAB on all of its attacks and can also be used to play around an opponent by switching Greninja's type to resist an attack. Choice Specs is the item of choice, as it allows Greninja to hit extremely hard with all of its attacks, increasing Greninja's damage output by a large amount. Either a Timid or Modest nature can be used on this set, as the former allows Greninja to outspeed certain threats such as maximum Speed Mega Metagross, Kartana, and Modest Tapu Koko, while the latter maximizes Greninja's damage output and lets it hit a lot harder.

Usage Tips

Greninja's wide coverage options allow it to scare off many potential threats such as Mega Slowbro, ensuring the safety of team mates such Tapu Lele. Prevent mindlessly clicking Hydro Cannon, as those that can survive it, such as Crustle and Golem, or those running Substitute can easily take advantage of the recharge turn and knock Greninja out. Also, avoid using Hydro Cannon unless it has a very good chance to KO the foe. Refrain from sending Greninja in when threats such as Tapu Koko and Kyurem-B loom, as they can easily take it out. Greninja can also be brought in against more passive Pokemon such as Jumpluff and Mega Slowbro, as they can wall other members of your team. Greninja can also utilize its Protean ability to play around foes, changing its type to resist a move they may go for.

Team Options

Pokemon such as Mimikyu can be used to threaten Greninja's checks, which include Tapu Koko and Choice Scarf users such as Garchomp. Greninja also does well against common Steel-type Pokemon such as Mega Metagross, so Pokemon weak to them such as Crustle can be safely brought in. Other options include physical heavy hitters such as Mega Pinsir, as Greninja's lacking Special Attack baits in more defensive Pokemon such as Chansey. Strong physical attackers such as Mega Charizard X are also appreciated, as they can make an opponent think twice before bringing in a specially defensive wall. Other hard hitting special attackers such as Mega Charizard Y and Choice Scarf Porygon-Z can be utilized due to Greninja's role as a coverage specialist rather than a hard hitter, though it makes the team more susceptible to being walled by Chansey. However, Greninja's versatility as a coverage attacker can cover the weaknesses of many Pokemon such as Tapu Lele and Mega Pinsir, making it easier for them to be brought in.

Strategy Comments

Other Options

A Waterium Z turns Hydro Cannon into a powerful 200-Base Power move with no drawbacks such as recharge and accuracy, and it also gives Greninja the freedom to switch its attacks. However, Greninja's other coverage attacks such as Ice Beam and Dark Pulse receive no boost, meaning Greninja is left without a way to hit Water-resistant Pokemon effectively. Another good item option is Life Orb, as it allows Greninja to switch its moves while also giving a good power boost to special moves and physical moves. It also allows Greninja to run Shadow Sneak, which can be used to avoid damage from opposing Normal-type attacks such as Hyper Beam and Giga Impact. Other physical coverage moves such as Gunk Shot can be utilized on the Life Orb set, as it gives Greninja more power to better deal with Fairy-type Pokemon such as Tapu Lele. Water Shuriken is another option that can be used to bypass Sturdy Pokemon such as Crustle and Golem, but it can be unreliable due to its luck factor. Hydro Pump can also replace any of the coverage moves on the Choice Specs set so as to avoid the recharge turn from Hydro Cannon. However, it lacks power compared to Hydro Cannon and has less accuracy. Another powerful option is Hyper Beam, which hits just as hard as Hydro Cannon due to Protean and can hit Water-resistant Pokemon such as Kyurem-B.

Checks and Counters

Faster Pokemon and Choice Scarf Users: Pokemon such as Tapu Koko and Choice Scarf Kyurem-B can easily outspeed Greninja and OHKO it due to its frail defenses.

Sturdy: Sturdy users such as Crustle and Donphan can take any one hit from Greninja and retaliate with powerful Z-moves.

Chansey: Chansey’s specially defensive capabilities allow it to easily wall all of Greninja's attacks as it breaks it down with a combination of Toxic and Seismic Toss.

Pokemon That Resist Its Coverage Moves: Pokemon such as Tapu Fini and Kyurem-B resist Greninja's most powerful attacks, namely Hydro Cannon, meaning it cannot OHKO them and takes a lot of damage in return.

Bulky Offensive Pokemon: Bulkier Pokemon such as Magearna and Mega Venusaur can also survive all of Greninja's attacks, OHKOing it in return.

 

[DEG]

I'd like to take mega lucario unless it's too low priority; if it is could I take greninja instead

I'd rather you do Greninja if you can really do it.

Also just saying that 1v1 has a Discord and a channel specifically for Analysis, you can pass by get some help or ping QC members if they forget to check your Pokemon.

 

[DEG]

QC 0/3

Greninja

Overview

• High speed stat lets Greninja outspeed a majority of the meta, barring some Pokemon such as Tapu Koko and Choice Scarfers such as Kyurem-Black.
• A great ability in Protean allows Greninja to receive STAB on all of its attacks.
• Powerful attacks such as Hydro Cannon, especially when equipped with a Waterium Z or Choice Specs, allow Greninja to hit incredibly hard against foes, usually OHKOing them.
• Good coverage options in Gunk Shot, Ice Beam and Grass Knot let it hit many opponents for super effective damage, on top of receiving STAB on those attacks.
• A mediocre 103 Special Attack stat makes it less desired when put into comparison against other powerful Special Attackers such as Mega Charizard Y.
• Low HP and defenses make it frail, meaning it drops easily to powerful attacks.

Choice Specs
Greninja @ Choice Specs
Ability: Protean
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Modest / Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Hydro Cannon
- Dark Pulse
- Ice Beam
- Grass Knot

Set Comments
Moves

• Hydro Cannon is Greninja’s most powerful move. With an incredible 150 base power and Choice Specs, it is capable of OHKOing almost every Pokemon that does not have Sturdy.
• Dark Pulse is a good move that allows Greninja to hit Pokemon such as Mega Metagross and Deoxys-Defense for super effective damage.
• Ice Beam is a nice coverage option, that, when boosted by Protean, hits hard against Pokemon such as Mega Pinsir and Dragonite.
• Grass Knot is a great option against one of the best Pokemon in the metagame, Mega Gyarados; with Choice Specs and a Modest nature, it is capable of OHKOing it, and can 2HKO it with a Timid nature.

Set Details

• Maximum investment in Speed and Special Attack lets Greninja hit as hard as possible, as well as outspeed most threats.
• Protean is amazing ability that grants Greninja STAB on all of its attacks. It can also be used to play around an opponent, by switching Greninja's type as to resist an attack it would normally be weak to.
• Choice Specs is used to allow Greninja to hit as hard as possible with all of its attacks, increasing Greninja’s overall damage output by a large amount.

Usage Tips

• Use Greninja to scare off powerful Pokemon such as Charizard by threatening them with powerful STAB attacks, and bring in Pokemon weak to them such as Magearna.
• Don’t just mindlessly click Hydro Cannon; some Pokemon running Substitute or those that can live an attack, such as Crustle and Golem, can easily take advantage of the recharge turn and knock Greninja out.
• Avoid sending Greninja in when threats such as Tapu Koko loom, as they can easily take it out while outspeeding.

Team Options

• Pokemon that can deal with Tapu Koko and Choice Scarfers such as Garchomp, such as Mimikyu, can be used to threaten these Pokemon and therefore safely bring in Greninja.
• Greninja can also beat Pokemon such as Mega Metagross, so Pokemon such as Crustle can take advantage of this.
• Heavy-hitters such as Kyurem-Black and Mega Charizard Y can also be used, as Greninja’s lacking Special Attack baits in more defensive Pokemon such as Chansey and Deoxys-Defense.

Other Options

• A Waterium Z set with a few physical moves such as Low Kick and Gunk Shot can be utilised to better deal with Pokemon such as Tapu Lele, yet is generally inferior to the Choice Specs set as these moves cannot deal much damage without proper investment. Waterium Z also turns Hydro Cannon into a powerful 200 base power move without a recharge turn, and also gives Greninja the freedom to switch up its attacks.
• Water Shuriken can be used to bypass Sturdy and defeat Pokemon such as Golem and Crustle, but can be unreliable due to its luck factor.
• Hydro Pump can replace any of the coverage moves on this set to avoid the recharge turn from Hydro Cannon. However, it lacks power compared to Hydro Cannon and has an unreliable 80% accuracy.

Checks and Counters

Faster Pokemon - Pokemon with a higher speed tier such as Shell Smash Crustle, Tapu Koko and Choice Scarfers such as Kyurem-Black can easily OHKO Greninja due to its frail defenses.

Chansey - Chansey’s specially defensive capabilities allow it to easily wall all of Greninja’s attacks as it breaks it down with a combination of Toxic and Seismic Toss.

Resistant Pokemon - Pokemon that resist Greninja’s attacks such as Tapu Fini can effortlessly wall Greninja and proceed to knock it out.

Defensive Pokemon - Bulkier Pokemon such as Magearna can also take hits from Greninja, forcing it to recharge.

Overview
-Mention that the Water-type is one of the best offensively in the metagame
-Mention the lowest base speed that will allow Pokemon holding a Choice Scarf outspeed Greninja, and give an example of Kyurem-Black.
-Hydro Cannon allows it to deal massive damage to Pokemon that doesn't resist it*
-[Transition] it has coverage moves such as.. [Gunk Shot to take on grass type that resists Hydro Cannon... and more...]
-Not ''Mediocre'' but use something other like "It's Special Attack doesn't match most Special hard hitters in 1v1 such as Mega Charizard Y"
-It's mostly suffer due to its frail defenses against either Pokemon that outspeed it or Pokemon that can tank a hit and win. So it should be rephrased to like "Its defensive stats leaves it easily vulnerable to Pokemon that can either outspeed it or tank a hit and retaliate back allowing them to OHKO it easily" < ofc not my english since it's broken here but yea something like that.

Set Comments
Moves
-Mention why Hydro Cannon is better than Hydro Pump in most situations, more BP, more accuracy, and doesn't have to fear recharge since it's 1v1.
-Dark Pulse against Psychic- and Ghost-type Pokemon such as Deoxys-D, Mega Metagross and Aegislash*
-Against Dragon- and Flying-types Pokemon such as Dragonite, Mega Pinsir and Garchomp. (That's how you should word it better.)

Set Details
-Mention when is Timid better than Modest and Vice-Versa. I'd rather use Timid so I don't know.

Usage Tips
-I think first phrase should be rephrased to like "Use Greninja if your team is weak to Fire-type Pokemon like Charizard as it can fend them off allowing you to protect Pokemon that are weak to their STAB such as Magearna".
-Never use Hydro Cannon unless you're a 100% sure you're going to OHKO the foe, that should be directly stated.

Team Options
-Pokemon that threatens threats that outspeeds Greninja such as Choice Scarf users and Tapu Koko + grammar, such as Garchomp and Mimikyu*.
-Greninja fares good against Steel-type Pokemon like Mega Metagross and Kartana so Pokemon weak to them are great like Crustle.
-Since Greninja is weak against Specially Defensive Pokemon such as Chansey, Physically Offensive Pokemon are highly appreciated as they can cover the weakness per example Mega Charizard X, Kyurem-Black and more.
-Since Greninja is more used as a coverage Pokemon another special hard hitter can be used alongside Greninja like Mega Zard Y but makes sure you don't put yourself in a weak position against Specially Defensive Pokemon.

Other Options
-Gunk shot is mentioned in the intro but nowhere else in the analysis. Mention Gunk Shot and mention it should only be used alongside Life Orb to beat Fairy- and Grass-type Pokemon such as...
-Mention Life Orb as an item that also gives great damage output and allows Greninja to switch out moves.

Checks and Counters
-Faster Pokemon and Choice Scarf users: These Pokemon can outspeed... such as Tapu Koko and...
-Sturdy Users like Crustle and Donphan can...
-Resistant Pokemon that effectively take advantage of Greninja's movepool (Elaborate more and cite more counters)
-I'd replace Defensive by Bulky Offensive as its the better word and mention more than Magearna.

QC 1/3, Good job!

 

[lotiasite]

Overview
-Mention that the Water-type is one of the best offensively in the metagame
-Mention the lowest base speed that will allow Pokemon holding a Choice Scarf outspeed Greninja, and give an example of Kyurem-Black.
-Hydro Cannon allows it to deal massive damage to Pokemon that doesn't resist it*
-[Transition] it has coverage moves such as.. [Gunk Shot to take on grass type that resists Hydro Cannon... and more...]
-Not ''Mediocre'' but use something other like "It's Special Attack doesn't match most Special hard hitters in 1v1 such as Mega Charizard Y"
-It's mostly suffer due to its frail defenses against either Pokemon that outspeed it or Pokemon that can tank a hit and win. So it should be rephrased to like "Its defensive stats leaves it easily vulnerable to Pokemon that can either outspeed it or tank a hit and retaliate back allowing them to OHKO it easily" < ofc not my english since it's broken here but yea something like that.

Set Comments
Moves
-Mention why Hydro Cannon is better than Hydro Pump in most situations, more BP, more accuracy, and doesn't have to fear recharge since it's 1v1.
-Dark Pulse against Psychic- and Ghost-type Pokemon such as Deoxys-D, Mega Metagross and Aegislash*
-Against Dragon- and Flying-types Pokemon such as Dragonite, Mega Pinsir and Garchomp. (That's how you should word it better.)

Set Details
-Mention when is Timid better than Modest and Vice-Versa. I'd rather use Timid so I don't know.

Usage Tips
-I think first phrase should be rephrased to like "Use Greninja if your team is weak to Fire-type Pokemon like Charizard as it can fend them off allowing you to protect Pokemon that are weak to their STAB such as Magearna".
-Never use Hydro Cannon unless you're a 100% sure you're going to OHKO the foe, that should be directly stated.

Team Options
-Pokemon that threatens threats that outspeeds Greninja such as Choice Scarf users and Tapu Koko + grammar, such as Garchomp and Mimikyu*.
-Greninja fares good against Steel-type Pokemon like Mega Metagross and Kartana so Pokemon weak to them are great like Crustle.
-Since Greninja is weak against Specially Defensive Pokemon such as Chansey, Physically Offensive Pokemon are highly appreciated as they can cover the weakness per example Mega Charizard X, Kyurem-Black and more.
-Since Greninja is more used as a coverage Pokemon another special hard hitter can be used alongside Greninja like Mega Zard Y but makes sure you don't put yourself in a weak position against Specially Defensive Pokemon.

Other Options
-Gunk shot is mentioned in the intro but nowhere else in the analysis. Mention Gunk Shot and mention it should only be used alongside Life Orb to beat Fairy- and Grass-type Pokemon such as...
-Mention Life Orb as an item that also gives great damage output and allows Greninja to switch out moves.

Checks and Counters
-Faster Pokemon and Choice Scarf users: These Pokemon can outspeed... such as Tapu Koko and...
-Sturdy Users like Crustle and Donphan can...
-Resistant Pokemon that effectively take advantage of Greninja's movepool (Elaborate more and cite more counters)
-I'd replace Defensive by Bulky Offensive as its the better word and mention more than Magearna.

QC 1/3, Good job!

implemented, thanks!

one thing i didnt put it was this; "Mention Gunk Shot and mention it should only be used alongside Life Orb to beat Fairy- and Grass-type Pokemon such as..."
since the only relevant grass types in 1v1 are mega venusaur and kartana (which both do not take much damage from gunk shot), i only listed fairy types.

again, thanks for qc and ready for second check

 

[Elo Bandit]

again, thanks for qc and ready for second check

Greninja

Overview

• High speed stat lets Greninja outspeed a majority of the meta, barring some Pokemon such as Tapu Koko and Choice Scarfers such as Kyurem-Black.
• A fantastic offensive typing in Water allows it to hit most of the metagame neutrally, barring Pokemon such as Kyurem-Black, Mega Gyarados, and Mega Slowbro. *this seems weird and misleading since Greninja is a check/counter to both Gyarados (Grass Knot) and M-Bro (Dark Pulse).
• A great ability in Protean allows Greninja to receive STAB on all of its attacks.
• Powerful attacks such as Hydro Cannon, especially when equipped with a Waterium Z or Choice Specs, allow Greninja to hit incredibly hard against foes that don't resist it, usually OHKOing them.
• Greninja also has fantastic coverage options in Gunk Shot, Ice Beam and Grass Knot, allowing it to hit Water resists such as Tapu Fini and Mega Gyarados for super effective damage.
• Greninja's underwhelming 103 Special Attack stat doesn't match up to other Special hard hitters in the metagame, such as Mega Charizard Y.
• Low defensive stats leave Greninja vulnerable to Pokemon that outspeed it or Pokemon that can tank a hit and retaliate with moves of their own.
• Greninja's high speed cannot save it from Choice Scarfers, as those with a base speed over 65 can outpace Greninja. Pokemon that Greninja would usually outspeed, such as Porygon-Z and Kyurem-Black, can easily OHKO Greninja with this speed boost. *This is your first bullet, just re-worded

Choice Specs
Greninja @ Choice Specs
Ability: Protean
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Modest / Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Hydro Cannon
- Dark Pulse
- Ice Beam
- Grass Knot

Set Comments
Moves

• Dark Pulse is a good move that allows Greninja to hit Pokemon such as Mega Metagross, Deoxys-Defense and Aegislash for super effective damage. *Mention flinch hax

Set Details

• A Timid Nature gives Greninja maximum speed, allowing it to outspeed base 60 Speed Pokemon holding a Choice Scarf, such as Magnezone. *Is this relevant at all? 99% of Magnezone users run Specs or Air Balloon, and you don't beat it anyway.

Usage Tips

• Never use Hydro Cannon unless it has a 100% chance to OHKO, as Pokemon can use the recharge turn to set up or OHKO Greninja. *Again, this is misleading. If Hydro Cannon has like an 85% chance to OHKO an opponent, why would you click anything else?

Team Options

• Heavy-hitters such as Kyurem-Black can also be used, as Greninja’s lacking Special Attack baits in more defensive Pokemon such as Chansey and Deoxys-Defense. *Specs Dark Pulse is super annoying for Deo-D though.

Other Options

• A Waterium Z turns Hydro Cannon into a powerful 200 base power move without a recharge turn, and also gives Greninja the freedom to switch up its attacks. *However, you reduce the power of your secondary coverage moves (Ice Beam, Dark Pulse)
• Life Orb is another good item option that allows Greninja to switch its moves while giving a good power boost. Life Orb also increases the damage of physical moves. *It also gives you the freedom to run Shadow Sneak, which can be used to avoid damage from opposing Hyper Beams and Giga Impacts.
• Physical moves such as Gunk Shot can be utilized with a Life Orb, as it allows Greninja to more easily deal with Fairy-type Pokemon such as Tapu Lele.
• Water Shuriken can be used to bypass Sturdy and defeat Pokemon such as Golem and Crustle, but can be unreliable due to its luck factor.
• Hydro Pump can replace any of the coverage moves on this set to avoid the recharge turn from Hydro Cannon. However, it lacks power compared to Hydro Cannon and has an unreliable 80% accuracy.
• Hyper Beam is also an option, as it can hit some opponents with neutral effectiveness where Hydro Cannon wouldn't

Checks and Counters

**

Otherwise, good analysis.

 

[lotiasite]

Greninja

Overview

• High speed stat lets Greninja outspeed a majority of the meta, barring some Pokemon such as Tapu Koko and Choice Scarfers such as Kyurem-Black.
• A fantastic offensive typing in Water allows it to hit most of the metagame neutrally, barring Pokemon such as Kyurem-Black, Mega Gyarados, and Mega Slowbro. *this seems weird and misleading since Greninja is a check/counter to both Gyarados (Grass Knot) and M-Bro (Dark Pulse).
• A great ability in Protean allows Greninja to receive STAB on all of its attacks.
• Powerful attacks such as Hydro Cannon, especially when equipped with a Waterium Z or Choice Specs, allow Greninja to hit incredibly hard against foes that don't resist it, usually OHKOing them.
• Greninja also has fantastic coverage options in Gunk Shot, Ice Beam and Grass Knot, allowing it to hit Water resists such as Tapu Fini and Mega Gyarados for super effective damage.
• Greninja's underwhelming 103 Special Attack stat doesn't match up to other Special hard hitters in the metagame, such as Mega Charizard Y.
• Low defensive stats leave Greninja vulnerable to Pokemon that outspeed it or Pokemon that can tank a hit and retaliate with moves of their own.
• Greninja's high speed cannot save it from Choice Scarfers, as those with a base speed over 65 can outpace Greninja. Pokemon that Greninja would usually outspeed, such as Porygon-Z and Kyurem-Black, can easily OHKO Greninja with this speed boost. *This is your first bullet, just re-worded

Choice Specs
Greninja @ Choice Specs
Ability: Protean
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Modest / Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Hydro Cannon
- Dark Pulse
- Ice Beam
- Grass Knot

Set Comments
Moves

• Dark Pulse is a good move that allows Greninja to hit Pokemon such as Mega Metagross, Deoxys-Defense and Aegislash for super effective damage. *Mention flinch hax

Set Details

• A Timid Nature gives Greninja maximum speed, allowing it to outspeed base 60 Speed Pokemon holding a Choice Scarf, such as Magnezone. *Is this relevant at all? 99% of Magnezone users run Specs or Air Balloon, and you don't beat it anyway.

Usage Tips

• Never use Hydro Cannon unless it has a 100% chance to OHKO, as Pokemon can use the recharge turn to set up or OHKO Greninja. *Again, this is misleading. If Hydro Cannon has like an 85% chance to OHKO an opponent, why would you click anything else?

Team Options

• Heavy-hitters such as Kyurem-Black can also be used, as Greninja’s lacking Special Attack baits in more defensive Pokemon such as Chansey and Deoxys-Defense. *Specs Dark Pulse is super annoying for Deo-D though.

Other Options

• A Waterium Z turns Hydro Cannon into a powerful 200 base power move without a recharge turn, and also gives Greninja the freedom to switch up its attacks. *However, you reduce the power of your secondary coverage moves (Ice Beam, Dark Pulse)
• Life Orb is another good item option that allows Greninja to switch its moves while giving a good power boost. Life Orb also increases the damage of physical moves. *It also gives you the freedom to run Shadow Sneak, which can be used to avoid damage from opposing Hyper Beams and Giga Impacts.
• Physical moves such as Gunk Shot can be utilized with a Life Orb, as it allows Greninja to more easily deal with Fairy-type Pokemon such as Tapu Lele.
• Water Shuriken can be used to bypass Sturdy and defeat Pokemon such as Golem and Crustle, but can be unreliable due to its luck factor.
• Hydro Pump can replace any of the coverage moves on this set to avoid the recharge turn from Hydro Cannon. However, it lacks power compared to Hydro Cannon and has an unreliable 80% accuracy.
• Hyper Beam is also an option, as it can hit some opponents with neutral effectiveness where Hydro Cannon wouldn't

Checks and Counters

**

Otherwise, good analysis.

done, ill begin writing it up soon. thanks for qc!

QC 2/3 [Dream Eater Gengar, Elo Bandit] (Written)

Greninja

Overview

With a high speed stat, fantastic offensive typing in Water, and an incredible ability in Protean, Greninja is a powerful attacker with several options for taking out different Pokemon. Access to good coverage options such as Ice Beam, Grass Knot, and Gunk Shot allow Greninja to hit a large portion of the metagame for super-effective damage, especially when factoring in STAB from Protean. Greninja also has access to Hydro Cannon, which allows Greninja to hit incredibly hard especially with a Waterium Z or Choice Specs equipped. However, Greninja's underwhelming 103 Special Attack stat doesn't match up to other Special hard hitters in the metagame, such as Mega Charizard Y. This low Special Attack can also make Greninja fall short of some KOes. Greninja also has low defensive stats, leaving it very vulnerable to Pokemon which outspeed it and Pokemon that can tank a hit and retaliate with hard-hitting moves of their own.

Choice Specs
Greninja @ Choice Specs
Ability: Protean
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Modest / Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Hydro Cannon
- Dark Pulse
- Ice Beam
- Grass Knot

Set Comments
Moves

Hydro Cannon is Greninja's most powerful move. With an incredible 150 base power and Choice Specs, it is capable of OHKOing almost every Pokemon that does not resist it and does not have Sturdy. Greninja also usually does not need to worry about the recharge turn due to 1v1's format, which makes the trade for more power and accuracy over Hydro Pump worth it. Dark Pulse is a coverage option Greninja can use to hit Pokemon such as Mega Metagross, Deoxys-Defense and Aegislash for super-effective damage, while also having a nifty 20% flinch chance that can help out Greninja in a matchup it would normally lose by getting free damage off. Ice Beam is another coverage move that hits Dragon- and Flying-type Pokemon such as Dragonite, Mega Pinsir, and Garchomp, while also hitting Grass-type Pokemon such as Whimsicott that resist Hydro Cannon. Grass Knot is Greninja's best fourth option, as it hits Mega Gyarados, one of the best Pokemon in the current metagame, extremely hard. When used with a Choice Specs and Modest nature, it is capable of OHKOing it.

Set Details

Maximum investment in Speed and Special Attack lets Greninja hit as hard as possible while outspeeding most threats. Protean is Greninja's best ability, as it grants STAB on all of its attacks and can also be used to play around an opponent by switching Greninja's type as to resist an attack. Choice Specs is the item of choice, as it allows Greninja to hit extremely hard with all of its attacks, increasing Greninja's damage output by a large amount. Either a Timid or Modest Nature can be used on this set, as Timid allows Greninja to outspeed certain threats such as max speed Mega Metagross, Kartana, and Modest Tapu Koko, while Modest maximizes Greninja's damage output and lets it hit a lot harder.

Usage Tips

Use Greninja if your team is weak to Fire-type Pokemon such as Charizard, as it can scare them off and protect Pokemon weak to them such as Magearna. Prevent mindlessly clicking Hydro Cannon, as those that can live an attack, such as Crustle or Golem, or those running Substitute can easily take advantage of the recharge turn and knock Greninja out. Also avoid using Hydro Cannon unless it has a very good chance to KO the foe. Refrain from sending Greninja in when threats such as Tapu Koko and Kyurem-Black loom, as they can easily take it out due to outspeeding Greninja.

Team Options

Pokemon such as Mimikyu can be used to threaten Greninja's checks, which include Tapu Koko and Choice Scarfers such as Garchomp. Greninja also does well against common Steel-type Pokemon such as Mega Metagross and Kartana, so Pokemon weak to them such as Crustle can be safely brought in. Other options include heavy hitters such as Kyurem-Black, as Greninja's lacking Special Attack baits in more defensive Pokemon such as Chansey. Strong physical attackers such as Mega Charizard X are also appreciated, as they can make an opponent think twice before bringing in a specially defensive wall. Other hard hitting Special Attackers such as Mega Charizard Y and Porygon-Z can be utilized due to Greninja's role as a coverage specialist rather than a hard hitter, yet it makes the team more susceptible to being walled by Chansey.

Other Options

A Waterium Z turns Hydro Cannon into a powerful 200 base power move with no drawbacks such as recharge and accuracy, and also gives Greninja the freedom to switch up its attacks. However, Greninja's other coverage attacks such as Ice Beam and Dark Pulse receive no boost, meaning Greninja is left without a way to hit Water-resistant Pokemon effectively. Another good item option is Life Orb, as it allows Greninja to switch its moves up while also giving a good power boost to special moves as well as physical moves. It also allows Greninja to run Shadow Sneak, which can be used to avoid damage from opposing Normal-type attacks such as Hyper Beam and Giga Impact. Other physical coverage moves such as Gunk Shot can be utilized on the Life Orb set, as it gives Greninja more power to better deal with Fairy-type Pokemon such as Tapu Lele. Water Shuriken is another option that can be used to bypass Sturdy Pokemon such as Crustle and Golem, yet can be unreliable due to its luck factor. Hydro Pump can also replace any of the coverage moves on the Choice Specs set, as to avoid the recharge turn from Hydro Cannon. However, it lacks power compared to Hydro Cannon and has a less reliable accuracy. Another powerful option is Hyper Beam, which hits just as hard as Hydro Cannon due to Protean and can hit Water-Resistant Pokemon such as Kyurem-Black.

Checks and Counters

Faster Pokemon and Choice Scarf users - Pokemon such as Tapu Koko and Choice Scarf Kyurem-Black can easily outspeed Greninja and OHKO it due to its frail defenses.

Sturdy - Sturdy users such as Crustle and Donphan can take any one hit from Greninja and retaliate with powerful Z-moves.

Chansey - Chansey’s specially defensive capabilities allow it to easily wall all of Greninja’s attacks as it breaks it down with a combination of Toxic and Seismic Toss.

Resistant Pokemon - Pokemon such as Tapu Fini and Kyurem-Black resist Greninja's most powerful attacks, namely Hydro Cannon, meaning it cannot OHKO them and takes a lot of damage in return.

Bulky Offensive Pokemon - Bulkier Pokemon such as Magearna and Mega Venusaur can also survive all of Greninja's attacks, OHKOing it in return.

Written up, ready for 3rd qc so tagging Kentari (sorry for being annoying lol)

 

[Kentari]

QC 2/3 [Dream Eater Gengar, Elo Bandit] (Written)

Greninja

Overview

With a high speed stat, fantastic offensive typing in Water, and an incredible ability in Protean, Greninja is a powerful attacker with several options for taking out different Pokemon. Access to good coverage options such as Ice Beam, Grass Knot, and Gunk Shot allow Greninja to hit a large portion of the metagame for super-effective damage, especially when factoring in STAB from Protean. Greninja also has access to Hydro Cannon, which allows Greninja to hit incredibly hard especially with a Waterium Z or Choice Specs equipped. However, Greninja's underwhelming 103 Special Attack stat doesn't match up to other Special hard hitters in the metagame, such as Mega Charizard Y. This low Special Attack can also make Greninja fall short of some KOes. Greninja also has low defensive stats, leaving it very vulnerable to Pokemon which outspeed it and Pokemon that can tank a hit and retaliate with hard-hitting moves of their own.

Choice Specs
Greninja @ Choice Specs
Ability: Protean
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Modest / Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Hydro Cannon
- Dark Pulse
- Ice Beam
- Grass Knot

Set Comments
Moves

Hydro Cannon is Greninja's most powerful move. With an incredible 150 base power and Choice Specs, it is capable of OHKOing almost every Pokemon that does not resist it and does not have Sturdy. Greninja also usually does not need to worry about the recharge turn due to 1v1's format, which makes the trade for more power and accuracy over Hydro Pump worth it. Dark Pulse is a coverage option Greninja can use to hit Pokemon such as Mega Metagross, Deoxys-Defense and Aegislash for super-effective damage, while also having a nifty 20% flinch chance that can help out Greninja in a matchup it would normally lose by getting free damage off. Ice Beam is another coverage move that hits Dragon- and Flying-type Pokemon such as Dragonite, Mega Pinsir, and Garchomp, while also hitting Grass-type Pokemon such as Whimsicott that resist Hydro Cannon. Grass Knot is Greninja's best fourth option, as it hits Mega Gyarados, one of the best Pokemon in the current metagame, extremely hard. When used with a Choice Specs and Modest nature, it is capable of OHKOing it.

Set Details

Maximum investment in Speed and Special Attack lets Greninja hit as hard as possible while outspeeding most threats. Protean is Greninja's best ability, as it grants STAB on all of its attacks and can also be used to play around an opponent by switching Greninja's type as to resist an attack. Choice Specs is the item of choice, as it allows Greninja to hit extremely hard with all of its attacks, increasing Greninja's damage output by a large amount. Either a Timid or Modest Nature can be used on this set, as Timid allows Greninja to outspeed certain threats such as max speed Mega Metagross, Kartana, and Modest Tapu Koko, while Modest maximizes Greninja's damage output and lets it hit a lot harder.

Usage Tips

Use Greninja if your team is weak to Fire-type Pokemon such as Charizard, as it can scare them off and protect Pokemon weak to them such as Magearna. Prevent mindlessly clicking Hydro Cannon, as those that can live an attack, such as Crustle or Golem, or those running Substitute can easily take advantage of the recharge turn and knock Greninja out. Also avoid using Hydro Cannon unless it has a very good chance to KO the foe. Refrain from sending Greninja in when threats such as Tapu Koko and Kyurem-Black loom, as they can easily take it out due to outspeeding Greninja.

Team Options

Pokemon such as Mimikyu can be used to threaten Greninja's checks, which include Tapu Koko and Choice Scarfers such as Garchomp. Greninja also does well against common Steel-type Pokemon such as Mega Metagross and Kartana, so Pokemon weak to them such as Crustle can be safely brought in. Other options include heavy hitters such as Kyurem-Black, as Greninja's lacking Special Attack baits in more defensive Pokemon such as Chansey. Strong physical attackers such as Mega Charizard X are also appreciated, as they can make an opponent think twice before bringing in a specially defensive wall. Other hard hitting Special Attackers such as Mega Charizard Y and Porygon-Z can be utilized due to Greninja's role as a coverage specialist rather than a hard hitter, yet it makes the team more susceptible to being walled by Chansey.

Other Options

A Waterium Z turns Hydro Cannon into a powerful 200 base power move with no drawbacks such as recharge and accuracy, and also gives Greninja the freedom to switch up its attacks. However, Greninja's other coverage attacks such as Ice Beam and Dark Pulse receive no boost, meaning Greninja is left without a way to hit Water-resistant Pokemon effectively. Another good item option is Life Orb, as it allows Greninja to switch its moves up while also giving a good power boost to special moves as well as physical moves. It also allows Greninja to run Shadow Sneak, which can be used to avoid damage from opposing Normal-type attacks such as Hyper Beam and Giga Impact. Other physical coverage moves such as Gunk Shot can be utilized on the Life Orb set, as it gives Greninja more power to better deal with Fairy-type Pokemon such as Tapu Lele. Water Shuriken is another option that can be used to bypass Sturdy Pokemon such as Crustle and Golem, yet can be unreliable due to its luck factor. Hydro Pump can also replace any of the coverage moves on the Choice Specs set, as to avoid the recharge turn from Hydro Cannon. However, it lacks power compared to Hydro Cannon and has a less reliable accuracy. Another powerful option is Hyper Beam, which hits just as hard as Hydro Cannon due to Protean and can hit Water-Resistant Pokemon such as Kyurem-Black.

Checks and Counters

Faster Pokemon and Choice Scarf users - Pokemon such as Tapu Koko and Choice Scarf Kyurem-Black can easily outspeed Greninja and OHKO it due to its frail defenses.

Sturdy - Sturdy users such as Crustle and Donphan can take any one hit from Greninja and retaliate with powerful Z-moves.

Chansey - Chansey’s specially defensive capabilities allow it to easily wall all of Greninja’s attacks as it breaks it down with a combination of Toxic and Seismic Toss.

Resistant Pokemon - Pokemon such as Tapu Fini and Kyurem-Black resist Greninja's most powerful attacks, namely Hydro Cannon, meaning it cannot OHKO them and takes a lot of damage in return.

Bulky Offensive Pokemon - Bulkier Pokemon such as Magearna and Mega Venusaur can also survive all of Greninja's attacks, OHKOing it in return.

Overview

• "it is capable of OHKOing almost every Pokemon that does not resist it and does not have Sturdy." I'm not sure this is true. Greninja is pretty weak compared to the truly heavy hitters in 1v1 like Charizard Y and Porygon-Z.
  
• "However, Greninja's underwhelming 103 Special Attack stat doesn't match up to other Special hard hitters in the metagame, such as Mega Charizard Y. This low Special Attack can also make Greninja fall short of some KOes." Maybe change Zard Y to Tapu Lele and then add Zard Y as a pokemon Greninja falls short of KOing.

Choice Specs
Greninja @ Choice Specs
Ability: Protean
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Modest / Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Hydro Cannon
- Dark Pulse
- Ice Beam
- Grass Knot

Set Comments
Moves

• "Grass Knot is Greninja's best fourth option, as it hits Mega Gyarados, one of the best Pokemon in the current metagame, extremely hard. When used with a Choice Specs and Modest nature, it is capable of OHKOing it." This sounds correct, but you honestly have a better chance beating Gyarados with Timid, as Gyarados can choose not to Mega-Evolve and then outspeed and OHKO.

Set Details

• Looks good.

Usage Tips

• "Tapu Koko and Kyurem-Black loom, as they can easily take it out due to outspeeding Greninja." Kyurem-Black beats you whether it outspeeds you or not. You basically only say use Greninja against Fire-types. I'm sure you can expand this a bit.

Team Options

• "Kartana, so Pokemon weak to them such as Crustle can be safely brought in" Crustle isn't weak to Kartana. Your teammates for Greninja are Kyurem-B, Charizard X and Y, Porygon-Z and Mimikyu. These are kind of generic teammates that go with most pokemon. Perhaps add a more specific or niche teammate that specifically appreciates Greninja? At least give an example or two of a specific set that pairs well with Greninja, rather than just a pokemon. What niche is Greninja filling on your team?

Other Options

• Looks good.

Checks and Counters

• Looks good.

 

[Kentari]

QC 3/3 [Written] GP 0/1

Greninja

Overview

With a high speed stat, fantastic offensive typing in Water, and an incredible ability in Protean, Greninja is a powerful attacker with several options for taking out different Pokemon. Access to good coverage options such as Ice Beam, Grass Knot, and Gunk Shot allow Greninja to hit a large portion of the metagame for super-effective damage, especially when factoring in STAB from Protean. Greninja also has access to Hydro Cannon, which allows Greninja to hit incredibly hard especially with a Waterium Z or Choice Specs equipped. However, Greninja's underwhelming 103 Special Attack stat doesn't match up to other Special hard hitters in the metagame, such as Tapu Lele. This low Special Attack can also make Greninja fall short of some KOes against Pokemon such as Mega Charizard Y. Greninja also has low defensive stats, leaving it very vulnerable to Pokemon which outspeed it and Pokemon that can tank a hit and retaliate with hard hitting moves of their own.

Choice Specs
Greninja @ Choice Specs
Ability: Protean
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Modest / Timid Nature
- Hydro Cannon
- Dark Pulse
- Ice Beam
- Grass Knot

Set Comments

Moves

Hydro Cannon is Greninja's most powerful move. With an incredible 150 base power and Choice Specs, it is capable of OHKOing almost every Pokemon that does not resist it and does not have Sturdy. Greninja also usually does not need to worry about the recharge turn due to 1v1's format, which makes the trade for more power and accuracy over Hydro Pump worth it. Dark Pulse is a coverage option Greninja can use to hit Pokemon such as Mega Metagross, Deoxys-Defense and Aegislash for super-effective damage, while also having a nifty 20% flinch chance that can help out Greninja in a matchup it would normally lose by getting free damage off. Ice Beam is another coverage move that hits Dragon- and Flying-type Pokemon such as Dragonite, Mega Pinsir, and Garchomp, while also hitting Grass-type Pokemon such as Whimsicott that resist Hydro Cannon. Grass Knot is Greninja's best fourth option, as it hits Mega Gyarados, one of the best Pokemon in the current metagame, extremely hard.

Set Details

Maximum investment in Speed and Special Attack lets Greninja hit as hard as possible while outspeeding most threats. Protean is Greninja's best ability, as it grants STAB on all of its attacks and can also be used to play around an opponent by switching Greninja's type as to resist an attack. Choice Specs is the item of choice, as it allows Greninja to hit extremely hard with all of its attacks, increasing Greninja's damage output by a large amount. Either a Timid or Modest Nature can be used on this set, as Timid allows Greninja to outspeed certain threats such as max speed Mega Metagross, Kartana, and Modest Tapu Koko, while Modest maximizes Greninja's damage output and lets it hit a lot harder.

Usage Tips

Use Greninja if your team is weak to Fire-type Pokemon such as Charizard, as it can scare them off and protect Pokemon weak to them such as Magearna. Prevent mindlessly clicking Hydro Cannon, as those that can live an attack, such as Crustle or Golem, or those running Substitute can easily take advantage of the recharge turn and knock Greninja out. Also avoid using Hydro Cannon unless it has a very good chance to KO the foe. Refrain from sending Greninja in when threats such as Tapu Koko and Kyurem-Black loom, as they can easily take it out. Greninja can also be brought in against more passive Pokemon such as Jumpluff and Mega Slowbro, as they can wall other members of your team. Greninja can also utilize its Protean ability to play around opponents, changing its type to resist a move the opponent may go for.

Team Options

Pokemon such as Mimikyu can be used to threaten Greninja's checks, which include Tapu Koko and Choice Scarfers such as Garchomp. Greninja also does well against common Steel-type Pokemon such as Mega Metagross, so Pokemon weak to them such as Crustle can be safely brought in. Other options include heavy hitters such as Kyurem-Black, as Greninja's lacking Special Attack baits in more defensive Pokemon such as Chansey. Strong physical attackers such as Mega Charizard X are also appreciated, as they can make an opponent think twice before bringing in a specially defensive wall. Other hard hitting Special Attackers such as Mega Charizard Y and Choice Scarf Porygon-Z can be utilized due to Greninja's role as a coverage specialist rather than a hard hitter, yet it makes the team more susceptible to being walled by Chansey. However, Greninja's versatility as a coverage attacker can cover the weaknesses of many Pokemon such as Tapu Lele and Mega Pinsir, making it easier for them to be brought in. Tapu Lele in particular can also cover some of Greninja's checks such as Kyurem-Black and Tapu Koko.

Strategy Comments

Other Options

A Waterium Z turns Hydro Cannon into a powerful 200 base power move with no drawbacks such as recharge and accuracy, and also gives Greninja the freedom to switch up its attacks. However, Greninja's other coverage attacks such as Ice Beam and Dark Pulse receive no boost, meaning Greninja is left without a way to hit Water-resistant Pokemon effectively. Another good item option is Life Orb, as it allows Greninja to switch its moves up while also giving a good power boost to special moves as well as physical moves. It also allows Greninja to run Shadow Sneak, which can be used to avoid damage from opposing Normal-type attacks such as Hyper Beam and Giga Impact. Other physical coverage moves such as Gunk Shot can be utilized on the Life Orb set, as it gives Greninja more power to better deal with Fairy-type Pokemon such as Tapu Lele. Water Shuriken is another option that can be used to bypass Sturdy Pokemon such as Crustle and Golem, yet can be unreliable due to its luck factor. Hydro Pump can also replace any of the coverage moves on the Choice Specs set, as to avoid the recharge turn from Hydro Cannon. However, it lacks power compared to Hydro Cannon and has a less reliable accuracy. Another powerful option is Hyper Beam, which hits just as hard as Hydro Cannon due to Protean and can hit Water-Resistant Pokemon such as Kyurem-Black.

Checks and Counters

Faster Pokemon and Choice Scarf users - Pokemon such as Tapu Koko and Choice Scarf Kyurem-Black can easily outspeed Greninja and OHKO it due to its frail defenses.

Sturdy - Sturdy users such as Crustle and Donphan can take any one hit from Greninja and retaliate with powerful Z-moves.

Chansey - Chansey’s specially defensive capabilities allow it to easily wall all of Greninja’s attacks as it breaks it down with a combination of Toxic and Seismic Toss.

Resistant Pokemon - Pokemon such as Tapu Fini and Kyurem-Black resist Greninja's most powerful attacks, namely Hydro Cannon, meaning it cannot OHKO them and takes a lot of damage in return.

Bulky Offensive Pokemon - Bulkier Pokemon such as Magearna and Mega Venusaur can also survive all of Greninja's attacks, OHKOing it in return.

Use Greninja if your team is weak to Fire-type Pokemon such as Charizard

Greninja doesn't have a good chance of beating Charizard Y. Modest cannot beat Max HP Zard Y and Timid can't beat Zard Y at all.

Other options include heavy hitters such as Kyurem-Black, as Greninja's lacking Special Attack baits in more defensive Pokemon such as Chansey.

Kyurem-Black loses to Chansey usually, unless it's something really weird like Z-Ice, Sub, Hone Claws.

Tapu Lele in particular can also cover some of Greninja's checks such as Kyurem-Black and Tapu Koko.

Tapu Lele has a lot of trouble with Kyurem-Black as Scarf with Iron Head can OHKO unless it's quite bulky, while any Z-Ice set that either outspeeds Z-Reflect or survives Scarf Moonblast will win. Physical Tapu Koko can live a Scarf Psychic and OHKO or outspeed Z-Reflect/Specs and OHKO with Z-Wild Charge.

 

[lotiasite]

Greninja doesn't have a good chance of beating Charizard Y. Modest cannot beat Max HP Zard Y and Timid can't beat Zard Y at all.



Kyurem-Black loses to Chansey usually, unless it's something really weird like Z-Ice, Sub, Hone Claws.



Tapu Lele has a lot of trouble with Kyurem-Black as Scarf with Iron Head can OHKO unless it's quite bulky, while any Z-Ice set that either outspeeds Z-Reflect or survives Scarf Moonblast will win. Physical Tapu Koko can live a Scarf Psychic and OHKO or outspeed Z-Reflect/Specs and OHKO with Z-Wild Charge.

ok, changed the things you mentioned.

GP 1/1

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Overview

With a high Speed stat, a fantastic offensive Water typing in Water, and an incredible ability in Protean, Greninja is a powerful attacker with several options for taking out different Pokemon. Access to good coverage options such as Ice Beam, Grass Knot, and Gunk Shot allow allows Greninja to hit a large portion of the metagame for super effective (RH) damage, especially when factoring in STAB from Protean. Greninja also has access to Hydro Cannon, which allows Greninja it to hit incredibly hard especially with a Waterium Z or Choice Specs equipped. However, Greninja's underwhelming base 103 Special Attack stat doesn't match up to other Special special hard hitters in the metagame, such as Tapu Lele. This low Special Attack can also make Greninja fall short of some KOes KOs against Pokemon such as Mega Charizard Y. Greninja also has low defensive stats, leaving it very vulnerable to Pokemon which that outspeed it and Pokemon that can tank a hit and retaliate with hard-hitting (AH) moves of their own.

Choice Specs
Greninja @ Choice Specs
Ability: Protean
EVs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
Modest / Timid Nature
IVs: 0 Atk
- Hydro Cannon
- Dark Pulse
- Ice Beam
- Grass Knot

Set Comments
Moves

Hydro Cannon is Greninja's most powerful move; (SC) With with an incredible 150 Base Power and Choice Specs, it is capable of OHKOing almost every Pokemon that does not resist it and does not have Sturdy. Greninja also usually does not need to worry about the recharge turn due to 1v1's format, which makes the trade for more power and accuracy over Hydro Pump worth it. Dark Pulse is a coverage option Greninja can use to hit Pokemon such as Mega Metagross, Deoxys-Defense Deoxys-D, (AC) and Aegislash for super effective (RH) damage (RC) while also having a nifty 20% flinch chance that can help out Greninja in a matchup it would normally lose by getting free damage off. Ice Beam is another coverage move that hits Dragon- and Flying-type Pokemon such as Dragonite, Mega Pinsir, and Garchomp (RC) while also hitting Grass-type Pokemon such as Whimsicott that resist Hydro Cannon. Grass Knot is Greninja's best fourth option, as it hits Mega Gyarados, one of the best Pokemon in the current metagame, extremely hard.

Set Details

Maximum investment in Speed and Special Attack lets Greninja hit as hard as possible while outspeeding most threats. Protean is Greninja's best ability, as it grants STAB on all of its attacks and can also be used to play around an opponent by switching Greninja's type as to resist an attack. Choice Specs is the item of choice, as it allows Greninja to hit extremely hard with all of its attacks, increasing Greninja's damage output by a large amount. Either a Timid or Modest Nature nature can be used on this set, as Timid the former allows Greninja to outspeed certain threats such as max maximum speed Speed Mega Metagross, Kartana, and Modest Tapu Koko, while Modest the latter maximizes Greninja's damage output and lets it hit a lot harder.

Usage Tips

Use Greninja if your team is weak to Fire-type Pokemon such as Charizard (mega?), as it can scare them off and protect Pokemon weak to them such as Magearna. Prevent mindlessly clicking Hydro Cannon, as those that can survive it live an attack, such as Crustle or and Golem, or those running Substitute can easily take advantage of the recharge turn and knock Greninja out. Also, (AC) avoid using Hydro Cannon unless it has a very good chance to KO the foe. Refrain from sending Greninja in when threats such as Tapu Koko and Kyurem-Black Kyurem-B loom, as they can easily take it out. Greninja can also be brought in against more passive Pokemon such as Jumpluff and Mega Slowbro, as they can wall other members of your team. Greninja can also utilize its Protean ability to play around foes opponents, changing its type to resist a move the opponent they may go for.

Team Options

Pokemon such as Mimikyu can be used to threaten Greninja's checks, which include Tapu Koko and Choice Scarfers Scarf users such as Garchomp. Greninja also does well against common Steel-type Pokemon such as Mega Metagross, so Pokemon weak to them such as Crustle can be safely brought in. Other options include heavy hitters such as Kyurem-Black, as Greninja's lacking Special Attack baits in more defensive Pokemon such as Chansey. Strong physical attackers such as Mega Charizard X are also appreciated, as they can make an opponent think twice before bringing in a specially defensive wall. Other hard hitting special attackers such as Mega Charizard Y and Choice Scarf Porygon-Z can be utilized due to Greninja's role as a coverage specialist rather than a hard hitter, yet though it makes the team more susceptible to being walled by Chansey. However, Greninja's versatility as a coverage attacker can cover the weaknesses of many Pokemon such as Tapu Lele and Mega Pinsir, making it easier for them to be brought in. Tapu Lele in particular can also cover some of Greninja's checks such as Kyurem-Black and Tapu Koko.

Strategy Comments

Other Options

A Waterium Z turns Hydro Cannon into a powerful 200-Base Power base power move with no drawbacks such as recharge and accuracy, and it also gives Greninja the freedom to switch up its attacks. However, Greninja's other coverage attacks such as Ice Beam and Dark Pulse receive no boost, meaning Greninja is left without a way to hit Water-resistant Pokemon effectively. Another good item option is Life Orb, as it allows Greninja to switch its moves up while also giving a good power boost to special and physical moves as well as physical moves. It also allows Greninja to run Shadow Sneak, which can be used to avoid damage from opposing Normal-type attacks such as Hyper Beam and Giga Impact. Other physical coverage moves such as Gunk Shot can be utilized on the Life Orb set, as it gives Greninja more power to better deal with Fairy-type Pokemon such as Tapu Lele. Water Shuriken is another option that can be used to bypass Sturdy Pokemon such as Crustle and Golem, yet but it can be unreliable due to its luck factor. Hydro Pump can also replace any of the coverage moves on the Choice Specs set (RC) so as to avoid the recharge turn from Hydro Cannon. However, it lacks power compared to Hydro Cannon and has a less reliable accuracy. Another powerful option is Hyper Beam, which hits just as hard as Hydro Cannon due to Protean and can hit Water-resistant Pokemon such as Kyurem-Black.

Checks and Counters

Faster Pokemon and Choice Scarf Users: Pokemon such as Tapu Koko and Choice Scarf Kyurem-Black can easily outspeed Greninja and OHKO it due to its frail defenses.

Sturdy: Sturdy users such as Crustle and Donphan can take any one hit from Greninja and retaliate with powerful Z-moves.

Chansey: Chansey’s specially defensive capabilities allow it to easily wall all of Greninja's attacks as it breaks it down with a combination of Toxic and Seismic Toss.

Resistant Pokemon That Resist Its Coverage Moves: (unless it's just one type they resist, in which case the tag should be "<TYPE>-resistant Pokemon") Pokemon such as Tapu Fini and Kyurem-Black resist Greninja's most powerful attacks, namely Hydro Cannon, meaning it cannot OHKO them and takes a lot of damage in return.

Bulky Offensive Pokemon: Bulkier Pokemon such as Magearna and Mega Venusaur can also survive all of Greninja's attacks, OHKOing it in return.

done. Kris this is ready for upload.