RU Ferroseed

GMars

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[OVERVIEW]

Ferroseed has an excellent typing with a wide array of resistances along with good bulk thanks to Eviolite, and its access to Spikes lets it support sweepers and wallbreakers as well as defensive archetypes. Ferroseed can take advantage of the large number of passive Pokemon in the RU metagame, such as Bronzong, Cresselia, Florges, Snorlax, and Comfey, as an opportunity to set up Spikes. In addition, Ferroseed has a good matchup against most entry hazard removal options through the combination of Leech Seed and Iron Barbs; Iron Barbs punishes Rapid Spin, while Leech Seed punishes repeated Defog attempts, allowing Ferroseed to pressure hazard removers. Unfortunately, Ferroseed is troubled by its low offensive stats, leaving it passive and potentially exploitable by setup sweepers. Threatening Pokemon such as Reuniclus and Heracross can easily take advantage of its passive nature to place pressure on its team. Outside of Leech Seed, Ferroseed lacks reliable recovery options; its reliance on Eviolite additionally means it cannot viably use Leftovers for passive healing. This can leave Ferroseed less consistent than other Spikes setters—in particular, Ferroseed faces heavy competition from Chesnaught as a defensive Spikes user due to Chesnaught's better recovery and offensive presence.

[SET]
name: Spikes
move 1: Spikes
move 2: Leech Seed
move 3: Protect
move 4: Gyro Ball / Knock Off
item: Eviolite
ability: Iron Barbs
nature: Relaxed
evs: 248 HP / 252 Def / 8 SpD

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

Spikes is Ferroseed's primary niche, quickly wearing down grounded foes to support Ferroseed's teammates. Leech Seed is Ferroseed's only form of recovery, but it can provide decent health due to Ferroseed's low base HP stat. Protect allows for more Leech Seed recovery and enables Ferroseed to scout for Choice-locked moves. Gyro Ball allows Ferroseed to deal solid damage to Fairy-types and prevents Minior from using Ferroseed as setup fodder. Because Ferroseed has extremely low Speed, Gyro Ball's likely high Base Power can offset Ferroseed's otherwise low offensive stats. Knock Off can be used to punish switch-ins such as Gligar and Dhelmise as well as remove Life Orb from Pokemon like Feraligatr, improving Ferroseed's walling ability. Seed Bomb is another option, as it allows Ferroseed to handle Substitute variants of Feraligatr and otherwise deal decent damage to the Water-types Ferroseed checks.

Set Details
========

Eviolite boosts Ferroseed's Defense and Special Defense by 50%, giving it the bulk it needs to function in the RU metagame. 248 HP EVs are used to maximize Ferroseed's mixed bulk while minimizing residual damage against opposing Spikes. 252 Defense EVs with a Relaxed nature allow Ferroseed to more effectively check physically offensive threats like Feraligatr and Flygon and boost Gyro Ball's power. Iron Barbs is Ferroseed's only ability, but it is useful in providing chip damage against attackers that typically use contact moves, such as Feraligatr and Sharpedo. Iron Barbs also has the benefit of punishing Rapid Spin.

Usage Tips
========

Bring Ferroseed in on the Pokemon it is able to check, such as physically offensive Water-types like Feraligatr. Early on, especially if the opponent lacks entry hazard removal, stack Spikes. If the opponent does have a hazard remover that can easily switch into Ferroseed, such as Flygon or Mantine, either double switch or use Leech Seed for recovery. As Ferroseed lacks reliable recovery, make sure Ferroseed maintains enough health to check threatening Pokemon like Feraligatr and Sharpedo. Avoid letting Ferroseed get burned by Pokemon such as Milotic, Mantine, and Jellicent, as this will cut into Ferroseed's longevity and remove its offensive presence.

Team Options
========

Wallbreakers such as Heracross and Ninetales appreciate Ferroseed's Spikes weakening their checks and turning would-be 2HKOs into OHKOs. Ferroseed's Spikes and ability to spread chip damage through Iron Barbs and Leech Seed additionally help sweepers such as Feraligatr and Snorlax clean up late-game. Florges can pass Wishes to Ferroseed to keep it healthy, heal it of any potential burns, and check Heracross. Answers to common setup sweepers are appreciated to offset Ferroseed's passive nature, allowing it to more freely set up Spikes. Pangoro can handle Calm Mind Reuniclus, while Choice Scarf Shaymin can answer Dragon Dance Feraligatr. Sableye can spinblock while handling Substitute + Calm Mind variants of Meloetta. Rock-types like Rhyperior and Gigalith can switch into Fire-type attacks and can form a hazard stacking core with Ferroseed, though they compound a weakness to Fighting-types. Water-types such as Kingdra and Feraligatr can make for good partners, as they are able to take on Fire-types for Ferroseed. Bulkier Water-types such as Milotic and Slowbro also make for good partners, though they must be wary of Fire-types like Moltres and Salazzle using Ferroseed as an opportunity to set up Substitute or Nasty Plot, respectively. Jellicent is a solid partner in this regard, since it supports Ferroseed as a Water-type and can additionally spinblock. Hoopa is a possible partner, as its Ghost typing allows it to spinblock for Ferroseed in a pinch, while Ferroseed's Spikes help Hoopa to wallbreak.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============

Thunder Wave is an option over Protect to slow down opposing Pokemon, finding use on offensive or balanced teams in easing revenge kills and potentially creating setup opportunities. Alternatively, Toxic can be used on more defensive team structures to further wear down foes and put setup sweepers on a shorter timer. Toxic is also useful to pressure entry hazard removers like Mantine and Gligar. Stealth Rock can be used, but Ferroseed is typically outclassed as a Stealth Rock setter by Pokemon like Gigalith, and Rhyperior, as these Pokemon are far less passive. A mixed defensive spread can be used, but at least 104 Defense EVs with a boosting nature should be kept to enable Ferroseed to handle Dragon Dance Feraligatr.

Checks and Counters
===================

**Fire-types and Coverage**: Ferroseed has a 4x weakness to Fire, leaving it extremely vulnerable to Fire-types such as Salazzle, Torkoal, and Moltres, as well as Pokemon that typically carry Fire-type coverage, such as Shaymin.

**Fighting-types**: Most Fighting-types in RU have the power to break through Ferroseed. Heracross in particular is difficult to safely switch into and can pressure Ferroseed's team, though it does take a sizable chunk of damage from Gyro Ball upon switch in.

**Grass-types**: Grass-types are immune to Leech Seed, denying Ferroseed recovery. Those that typically carry Fire- or Fighting-type coverage, such as Shaymin, Roserade, Virizion, and Chesnaught, can be particularly threatening. Chesnaught is of special note in that it is immune to Gyro Ball, resists Ferroseed's other potential attacks, and can use Taunt to prevent Ferroseed's Spikes while layering Spikes of its own.

**Taunt**: Taunt users such as Sableye, Alolan Persian, and Chesnaught prevent Ferroseed from setting up Spikes or recovering with Leech Seed.

**Magic Bounce**: Espeon and Xatu can reflect Ferroseed's Spikes and block Leech Seed with their ability Magic Bounce. However, Espeon takes a good deal of damage from Gyro Ball, and neither Pokemon appreciates Knock Off.

**Knock Off**: Knock Off strips Ferroseed's Eviolite, letting it be broken through by Pokemon it would normally check.

**Burn**: Burn takes a toll on Ferroseed's longevity and removes its offensive presence. Scald users like Milotic and Mantine as well as Will-O-Wisp users like Jellicent can pressure Ferroseed in this way, though they do allow it to get one layer of Spikes up in the process.

**Reuniclus**: While Reuniclus cannot prevent Spikes, it does deny Ferroseed recovery through Magic Guard and uses it as setup fodder.
 
Last edited:

GMars

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QC ready - slashes and spread probably need work, please let me know what you want to see changed!
 
Mention Chesnaught under Grass-types, it doesn't particularly care about Knock off and is immune to Gyro Ball, it can Taunt Ferroseed and proceed to set up Spikes of its own or just 2HKO with Drain Punch. Roserade should also be given a mention due to its access to Technician HP Fire. Espeon and Xatu might be worth a mention as Magic Bounce users, although the former doesn't take Gyro Ball that well and neither like having their item removed by Knock Off (with the exception of Psychium Z Espeon). Add Nidoqueen under the list of SR setters that outclass Ferroseed in that regard - continuing off that you should probably have a brief mention of why Ferroseed is outclassed as a SR setter. Add some reliable answers to common setup sweepers such as DD Feraligatr, CM Reuniclus, etc in Team Options so that Ferroseed can set up Spikes without fearing being setup fodder as much.

QC 2/3
 

GMars

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Mention Chesnaught under Grass-types, it doesn't particularly care about Knock off and is immune to Gyro Ball, it can Taunt Ferroseed and proceed to set up Spikes of its own or just 2HKO with Drain Punch. Roserade should also be given a mention due to its access to Technician HP Fire. Espeon and Xatu might be worth a mention as Magic Bounce users, although the former doesn't take Gyro Ball that well and neither like having their item removed by Knock Off (with the exception of Psychium Z Espeon). Add Nidoqueen under the list of SR setters that outclass Ferroseed in that regard - continuing off that you should probably have a brief mention of why Ferroseed is outclassed as a SR setter. Add some reliable answers to common setup sweepers such as DD Feraligatr, CM Reuniclus, etc in Team Options so that Ferroseed can set up Spikes without fearing being setup fodder as much.

QC 2/3
Thank you - implemented, written, and ready for QC 3
 

EonX

Battle Soul
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Just a couple of things:

[Spikes]
- Maybe a couple of bulkier partners in Team Options as it's mentioned in both the Overview and Other Options that Ferroseed can also be used on bulkier teams. Florges checks Heracross and provides Wish and Cleric support for Ferroseed. Sableye can spinblock and can stop Sub + CM Meloetta, a less common setup sweeper that can otherwise rip apart bulkier teams that a Ferroseed + Sableye core would find itself on and use Ferro as setup fodder if it forgoes Gyro Ball

[Check and Counters]

- While it's immune to Poison and literally doesn't give 2 shits about paralysis (75% of the time at least LOL) burns cut into longevity and strip Ferroseed of what little offensive presence it has. Scald users (Milotic, Mantine, etc.) and Will-O-Wisp users (Jellicent primarily) Also give a quick mention to avoiding users of these moves in Usage Tips. (it can tie in to keeping Ferroseed healthy to check threats)

Looks solid overall, so QC Approved 3/3
 

GMars

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Just a couple of things:

[Spikes]
- Maybe a couple of bulkier partners in Team Options as it's mentioned in both the Overview and Other Options that Ferroseed can also be used on bulkier teams. Florges checks Heracross and provides Wish and Cleric support for Ferroseed. Sableye can spinblock and can stop Sub + CM Meloetta, a less common setup sweeper that can otherwise rip apart bulkier teams that a Ferroseed + Sableye core would find itself on and use Ferro as setup fodder if it forgoes Gyro Ball

[Check and Counters]

- While it's immune to Poison and literally doesn't give 2 shits about paralysis (75% of the time at least LOL) burns cut into longevity and strip Ferroseed of what little offensive presence it has. Scald users (Milotic, Mantine, etc.) and Will-O-Wisp users (Jellicent primarily) Also give a quick mention to avoiding users of these moves in Usage Tips. (it can tie in to keeping Ferroseed healthy to check threats)

Looks solid overall, so QC Approved 3/3
Implemented - thank you! Ready for GP.
 

lotiasite

undedgy
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hi, amcheck, implement what you like
add remove (comments)
[OVERVIEW]

Ferroseed has an excellent typing with a wide array of resistances along with good bulk thanks to Eviolite., (period->comma) and its access to Spikes lets it support sweepers and wallbreakers as well as defensive archetypes. Ferrossed Ferroseed can take advantage of the large number of passive Pokemon in the RU metagame, such as Bronzong, Cresselia, Florges, Snorlax, and Comfey, as an opportunity to set up Spikes. In addition, Ferroseed has a good matchup versus against most entry hazard removal options through the combination of Leech Seed and Iron Barbs.;(period->semicolon) Iron Barbs punishes Rapid Spin, while Leech Seed punishes repeated Defog attempts, allowing Ferroseed to pressure hazard removers. Unfortunately, Ferroseed is troubled by its low offensive stats, leaving it passive and potentially exploitable by setup sweepers. Threatening Pokemon such as Reuniclus and Heracross can easily take advantage of its passive nature to place pressure on its team. Outside of Leech Seed, Ferroseed lacks reliable recovery options; its reliance on Eviolite additionally means it cannot viably use Leftovers for passive healing. This can leave Ferroseed less consistant consistent than other Spikes setters—in particular, Ferroseed faces heavy competition from Chesnaught as a defensive Spikes user due to Chesnaught's better recovery and offensive presence.

[SET]
name: Spikes
move 1: Spikes
move 2: Leech Seed
move 3: Protect
move 4: Gyro Ball / Knock Off
item: Eviolite
ability: Iron Barbs
nature: Relaxed
evs: 248 HP / 104 Def / 156 SpD

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

Spikes are is (singular) Ferroseed's primary niche. They, (AC) quickly wearing down grounded foes to support Ferroseed's teammates. Leech Seed is Ferroseed's only form of recovery, but it can provide decent health due to Ferroseed's low base HP stat. Protect allows for more Leech Seed recovery and enables Ferroseed to scout for Choice-locked moves. Gyro Ball allows Ferroseed to deal solid damage to Fairy-types and prevents Minior from using Ferroseed as setup fodder. Because Ferroseed has extremely low Speed, Gyro Ball's likely high Base Power can offset Ferroseed's otherwise low offensive stats. Knock Off can be used to punish switch-ins such as Gligar and Dhelmise as well as to (parallelism) remove Life Orb from Pokemon like Feraligatr, improving Ferroseed's walling ability. Seed Bomb is another possible option, as it allows Ferroseed to deal decent damage to the Water-types it checks such as Sharpedo and Feraligatr, particularly Substitute variants.

Set Details
========

Eviolite boosts Ferroseed's Defense and Special Defense by 50%. (this just sounds like dex info; maybe state why that's important/why it helps ferro) 248 HP EVs are used to maximize Ferroseed's mixed bulk while minimizing residual damage. 156 Special Defense EVs allow Ferroseed to avoid being 2HKOed by Modest Nidoqueen's Earth Power., (period->comma) and 104 Defense EVs with a boosting Relaxed nature allow Ferroseed to more effectively check physically offensive threats like Feraligatr and Flygon and boost Gyro Ball's power. (the three sentences were a little short and disconnected) A Relaxed nature in particular boosts Gyro Ball's power. Iron Barbs is Ferroseed's only ability, but it is useful in providing chip damage against attackers that typically use contact moves, such as Feraligatr and Sharpedo. Iron Barbs also has the benefit of punishing Rapid Spin.

Usage Tips
========

Bring Ferroseed in on the Pokemon it is able to check (examples?). Early on, especially if the opponent lacks entry hazard removal, spread (idk about "spread" here, maybe "stack"?) Spikes. If the opponent does have a hazard removaler that can easily switch in(remove space)to Ferroseed, such as Flygon or Mantine, either double switch or use Leech Seed for recovery. As Ferroseed lacks reliable recovery, make sure Ferroseed maintains enough health to check threatening Pokemon like Feraligatr and Sharpedo. Avoid letting Ferroseed get burned by Pokemon such as Milotic, Mantine, and Jellicent, as this will cut into Ferroseed's longevity and removes its offensive presence.

Team Options
========

Wallbreakers such as Heracross and Ninetales appreciate Ferroseed's Spikes weakening their checks and turning would-be 2HKOes 2HKOs into OHKOes OHKOs. Ferroseed's Spikes and ability to spread chip damage through Iron Barbs and Leech Seed additionally help sweepers such as Feraligatr and Snorlax clean up late-game. Florges can pass Wishes to Ferroseed to keep it healthy, heal it of any potential burns, and check Heracross. Answers to common setup sweepers are appreciated to offset Ferroseed's passive nature, allowing it to more freely set up Spikes. Pangoro can handle Calm Mind Reuniclus, while Choice Scarf Shaymin can answer Dragon Dance Feraligatr. Sableye can spinblock while handling Substitute + Calm Mind variants of Meloetta. Rock-types like Rhyperior and Gigalith provide switch-ins can switch into Fire-type attacks and can form a hazard stacking core with Ferroseed, though they compound a weakness to Fighting-types. Water-types such as Kingdra and Feraligatr can make for good partners, as they are able to take on Fire-types for Ferroseed. Bulkier Water-types such as Milotic and Slowbro also make for good partners, though they must be wary of Fire-types like Moltres and Salazzle using Ferroseed as an opportunity to set up Substitute or Nasty Plot, respectively. Jellicent is a solid partner in this regard—, (AC) since it supports Ferroseed as a Water-type and can additionally spinblock. Hoopa is a possible partner, (AC) as; (SC) its Ghost typing (RH) allows it to spinblock for Ferroseed in a pinch, while Ferroseed's Spikes help Hoopa to wallbreak.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============

Thunder Wave is an option over Protect to slow down opposing Pokemon, finding use on offensive or balanced teams in easing revenge kills and potentially creating setup opportunities. Alternatively, Toxic can be used on more defensive team structures to further wear down opponents foes and put setup sweepers on a shorter timer. Toxic is also useful to pressure entry hazard removers like Mantine and Gligar. Stealth Rock can be used, but Ferroseed is typically outclassed as a Stealth Rock setter by Pokemon like Nidoqueen, Gigalith, and Rhyperior, (AC) as these Pokemon are far less passive.

Checks and Counters
===================

**Fire-types and Coverage**: Ferroseed has a 4x weakness to Fire, leaving it extremely vulnerable to Fire-types such as Salazzle, Torkoal, and Moltres, as well as to Pokemon that typically carry Fire-type coverage, such as Shaymin.

**Fighting-types**: Most Fighting-types in RU have the power to break through Ferroseed. Heracross in particular is difficult to safely switch in(remove space)to and can pressure Ferroseed's team, though it does take a sizable chunk of damage from Gyro Ball upon switch in.

**Grass-types**: Grass-types are immune to Leech Seed. (explain why this is important) Those that typically carry Fire-type or Fighting-type coverage, such as Shaymin, Roserade, Virizion, and Chesnaught, can be particularly threatening. Chesnaught is of special note in that it is immune to Gyro Ball, resists Ferroseed's other potential attacks, and can use Taunt to prevent Ferroseed's Spikes while layering Spikes of its own.

**Taunt**: Taunt users such as Sableye, Alolan Persian, and Chesnaught prevent Ferroseed from setting up Spikes or recovering with Leech Seed.

**Magic Bounce**: Espeon and Xatu can reflect Ferroseed's Spikes and block Leech Seed with their ability Magic Bounce. However, Espeon takes a good deal of damage from Gyro Ball, and neither Pokemon appreciates Knock Off.

**Knock Off**: Knock Off strips Ferroseed's Eviolite, letting it be broken through by Pokemon it would normally check.

**Burn**: Burn takes a toll on Ferroseed's longevity and removes its offensive presence. Scald users like Milotic and Mantine as well as Will-O-Wisp users like Jellicent can pressure Ferroseed in this way, though they do allow it to get one layer of Spikes up in the process.

**Reuniclus**: While Reuniclus cannot prevent Spikes, it does deny Ferroseed recovery through Magic Guard and uses it as setup fodder.


really well written, nice :)
 

talkingtree

large if factual
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Do that^ for GP 1/2, solid stuff lotiasite.


The one point of ambiguity that I might expand upon is "especially Substitute variants" in the Moves section. It's unclear whether you're referring to just Sub Feraligatr or both Sub Feraligatr and Sub Sharpedo. I'm not entirely sure of the smoothest way to fix that and it could only be unclear because I have no RU experience. That said, if you want to draft a new ending to that section, I'd be happy to take a look at the edited version.
 

GMars

It's ya boy GEEEEEEEEMARS
is a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Battle Simulator Admin Alumnusis a Social Media Contributor Alumnusis a Senior Staff Member Alumnusis a Community Contributor Alumnusis a Top CAP Contributor Alumnusis a Top Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Media Contributor Alumnus
hi, amcheck, implement what you like
add remove (comments)
[OVERVIEW]

Ferroseed has an excellent typing with a wide array of resistances along with good bulk thanks to Eviolite., (period->comma) and its access to Spikes lets it support sweepers and wallbreakers as well as defensive archetypes. Ferrossed Ferroseed can take advantage of the large number of passive Pokemon in the RU metagame, such as Bronzong, Cresselia, Florges, Snorlax, and Comfey, as an opportunity to set up Spikes. In addition, Ferroseed has a good matchup versus against most entry hazard removal options through the combination of Leech Seed and Iron Barbs.;(period->semicolon) Iron Barbs punishes Rapid Spin, while Leech Seed punishes repeated Defog attempts, allowing Ferroseed to pressure hazard removers. Unfortunately, Ferroseed is troubled by its low offensive stats, leaving it passive and potentially exploitable by setup sweepers. Threatening Pokemon such as Reuniclus and Heracross can easily take advantage of its passive nature to place pressure on its team. Outside of Leech Seed, Ferroseed lacks reliable recovery options; its reliance on Eviolite additionally means it cannot viably use Leftovers for passive healing. This can leave Ferroseed less consistant consistent than other Spikes setters—in particular, Ferroseed faces heavy competition from Chesnaught as a defensive Spikes user due to Chesnaught's better recovery and offensive presence.

[SET]
name: Spikes
move 1: Spikes
move 2: Leech Seed
move 3: Protect
move 4: Gyro Ball / Knock Off
item: Eviolite
ability: Iron Barbs
nature: Relaxed
evs: 248 HP / 104 Def / 156 SpD

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

Spikes are is (singular) Ferroseed's primary niche. They, (AC) quickly wearing down grounded foes to support Ferroseed's teammates. Leech Seed is Ferroseed's only form of recovery, but it can provide decent health due to Ferroseed's low base HP stat. Protect allows for more Leech Seed recovery and enables Ferroseed to scout for Choice-locked moves. Gyro Ball allows Ferroseed to deal solid damage to Fairy-types and prevents Minior from using Ferroseed as setup fodder. Because Ferroseed has extremely low Speed, Gyro Ball's likely high Base Power can offset Ferroseed's otherwise low offensive stats. Knock Off can be used to punish switch-ins such as Gligar and Dhelmise as well as to (parallelism) remove Life Orb from Pokemon like Feraligatr, improving Ferroseed's walling ability. Seed Bomb is another possible option, as it allows Ferroseed to deal decent damage to the Water-types it checks such as Sharpedo and Feraligatr, particularly Substitute variants.

Set Details
========

Eviolite boosts Ferroseed's Defense and Special Defense by 50%. (this just sounds like dex info; maybe state why that's important/why it helps ferro) 248 HP EVs are used to maximize Ferroseed's mixed bulk while minimizing residual damage. 156 Special Defense EVs allow Ferroseed to avoid being 2HKOed by Modest Nidoqueen's Earth Power., (period->comma) and 104 Defense EVs with a boosting Relaxed nature allow Ferroseed to more effectively check physically offensive threats like Feraligatr and Flygon and boost Gyro Ball's power. (the three sentences were a little short and disconnected) A Relaxed nature in particular boosts Gyro Ball's power. Iron Barbs is Ferroseed's only ability, but it is useful in providing chip damage against attackers that typically use contact moves, such as Feraligatr and Sharpedo. Iron Barbs also has the benefit of punishing Rapid Spin.

Usage Tips
========

Bring Ferroseed in on the Pokemon it is able to check (examples?). Early on, especially if the opponent lacks entry hazard removal, spread (idk about "spread" here, maybe "stack"?) Spikes. If the opponent does have a hazard removaler that can easily switch in(remove space)to Ferroseed, such as Flygon or Mantine, either double switch or use Leech Seed for recovery. As Ferroseed lacks reliable recovery, make sure Ferroseed maintains enough health to check threatening Pokemon like Feraligatr and Sharpedo. Avoid letting Ferroseed get burned by Pokemon such as Milotic, Mantine, and Jellicent, as this will cut into Ferroseed's longevity and removes its offensive presence.

Team Options
========

Wallbreakers such as Heracross and Ninetales appreciate Ferroseed's Spikes weakening their checks and turning would-be 2HKOes 2HKOs into OHKOes OHKOs. Ferroseed's Spikes and ability to spread chip damage through Iron Barbs and Leech Seed additionally help sweepers such as Feraligatr and Snorlax clean up late-game. Florges can pass Wishes to Ferroseed to keep it healthy, heal it of any potential burns, and check Heracross. Answers to common setup sweepers are appreciated to offset Ferroseed's passive nature, allowing it to more freely set up Spikes. Pangoro can handle Calm Mind Reuniclus, while Choice Scarf Shaymin can answer Dragon Dance Feraligatr. Sableye can spinblock while handling Substitute + Calm Mind variants of Meloetta. Rock-types like Rhyperior and Gigalith provide switch-ins can switch into Fire-type attacks and can form a hazard stacking core with Ferroseed, though they compound a weakness to Fighting-types. Water-types such as Kingdra and Feraligatr can make for good partners, as they are able to take on Fire-types for Ferroseed. Bulkier Water-types such as Milotic and Slowbro also make for good partners, though they must be wary of Fire-types like Moltres and Salazzle using Ferroseed as an opportunity to set up Substitute or Nasty Plot, respectively. Jellicent is a solid partner in this regard—, (AC) since it supports Ferroseed as a Water-type and can additionally spinblock. Hoopa is a possible partner, (AC) as; (SC) its Ghost typing (RH) allows it to spinblock for Ferroseed in a pinch, while Ferroseed's Spikes help Hoopa to wallbreak.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============

Thunder Wave is an option over Protect to slow down opposing Pokemon, finding use on offensive or balanced teams in easing revenge kills and potentially creating setup opportunities. Alternatively, Toxic can be used on more defensive team structures to further wear down opponents foes and put setup sweepers on a shorter timer. Toxic is also useful to pressure entry hazard removers like Mantine and Gligar. Stealth Rock can be used, but Ferroseed is typically outclassed as a Stealth Rock setter by Pokemon like Nidoqueen, Gigalith, and Rhyperior, (AC) as these Pokemon are far less passive.

Checks and Counters
===================

**Fire-types and Coverage**: Ferroseed has a 4x weakness to Fire, leaving it extremely vulnerable to Fire-types such as Salazzle, Torkoal, and Moltres, as well as to Pokemon that typically carry Fire-type coverage, such as Shaymin.

**Fighting-types**: Most Fighting-types in RU have the power to break through Ferroseed. Heracross in particular is difficult to safely switch in(remove space)to and can pressure Ferroseed's team, though it does take a sizable chunk of damage from Gyro Ball upon switch in.

**Grass-types**: Grass-types are immune to Leech Seed. (explain why this is important) Those that typically carry Fire-type or Fighting-type coverage, such as Shaymin, Roserade, Virizion, and Chesnaught, can be particularly threatening. Chesnaught is of special note in that it is immune to Gyro Ball, resists Ferroseed's other potential attacks, and can use Taunt to prevent Ferroseed's Spikes while layering Spikes of its own.

**Taunt**: Taunt users such as Sableye, Alolan Persian, and Chesnaught prevent Ferroseed from setting up Spikes or recovering with Leech Seed.

**Magic Bounce**: Espeon and Xatu can reflect Ferroseed's Spikes and block Leech Seed with their ability Magic Bounce. However, Espeon takes a good deal of damage from Gyro Ball, and neither Pokemon appreciates Knock Off.

**Knock Off**: Knock Off strips Ferroseed's Eviolite, letting it be broken through by Pokemon it would normally check.

**Burn**: Burn takes a toll on Ferroseed's longevity and removes its offensive presence. Scald users like Milotic and Mantine as well as Will-O-Wisp users like Jellicent can pressure Ferroseed in this way, though they do allow it to get one layer of Spikes up in the process.

**Reuniclus**: While Reuniclus cannot prevent Spikes, it does deny Ferroseed recovery through Magic Guard and uses it as setup fodder.


really well written, nice :)
Do that^ for GP 1/2, solid stuff lotiasite.


The one point of ambiguity that I might expand upon is "especially Substitute variants" in the Moves section. It's unclear whether you're referring to just Sub Feraligatr or both Sub Feraligatr and Sub Sharpedo. I'm not entirely sure of the smoothest way to fix that and it could only be unclear because I have no RU experience. That said, if you want to draft a new ending to that section, I'd be happy to take a look at the edited version.
Thank you, implemented. Changed the sub section to:
"Seed Bomb is another possible option, as it allows Ferroseed to handle Substitute variants of Feraligatr and otherwise deal decent damage to the Water-types Ferroseed checks."
How's that sound? If it's good with you talkingtree, then this should be ready for GP 2
 

Lumari

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GP 2/2
[OVERVIEW]

Ferroseed has an excellent typing with a wide array of resistances along with good bulk thanks to Eviolite, and its access to Spikes lets it support sweepers and wallbreakers as well as defensive archetypes. Ferroseed can take advantage of the large number of passive Pokemon in the RU metagame, such as Bronzong, Cresselia, Florges, Snorlax, and Comfey, as an opportunity to set up Spikes. In addition, Ferroseed has a good matchup against most entry hazard removal options through the combination of Leech Seed and Iron Barbs; Iron Barbs punishes Rapid Spin, while Leech Seed punishes repeated Defog attempts, allowing Ferroseed to pressure hazard removers. Unfortunately, Ferroseed is troubled by its low offensive stats, leaving it passive and potentially exploitable by setup sweepers. Threatening Pokemon such as Reuniclus and Heracross can easily take advantage of its passive nature to place pressure on its team. Outside of Leech Seed, Ferroseed lacks reliable recovery options; its reliance on Eviolite additionally means it cannot viably use Leftovers for passive healing. This can leave Ferroseed less consistent than other Spikes setters—in particular, Ferroseed faces heavy competition from Chesnaught as a defensive Spikes user due to Chesnaught's better recovery and offensive presence.

[SET]
name: Spikes
move 1: Spikes
move 2: Leech Seed
move 3: Protect
move 4: Gyro Ball / Knock Off
item: Eviolite
ability: Iron Barbs
nature: Relaxed
evs: 248 HP / 104 Def / 156 SpD

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

Spikes is Ferroseed's primary niche, quickly wearing down grounded foes to support Ferroseed's teammates. Leech Seed is Ferroseed's only form of recovery, but it can provide decent health due to Ferroseed's low base HP stat. Protect allows for more Leech Seed recovery and enables Ferroseed to scout for Choice-locked moves. Gyro Ball allows Ferroseed to deal solid damage to Fairy-types and prevents Minior from using Ferroseed as setup fodder. Because Ferroseed has extremely low Speed, Gyro Ball's likely high Base Power can offset Ferroseed's otherwise low offensive stats. Knock Off can be used to punish switch-ins such as Gligar and Dhelmise as well as remove Life Orb from Pokemon like Feraligatr, improving Ferroseed's walling ability. Seed Bomb is another possible option, as it allows Ferroseed to handle Substitute variants of Feraligatr and otherwise deal decent damage to the Water-types Ferroseed checks.

Set Details
========

Eviolite boosts Ferroseed's Defense and Special Defense by 50%, giving it the bulk it needs to function in the RU metagame. 248 HP EVs are used to maximize Ferroseed's mixed bulk while minimizing residual damage. (Ferroseed's max HP is only divisible by 4, not by 8 / 16, so I'm reasonably sure there's no reason to drop HP EVs?) 156 Special Defense EVs allow Ferroseed to avoid being 2HKOed by Modest Nidoqueen's Earth Power, and 104 Defense EVs with a Relaxed nature allow Ferroseed to more effectively check physically offensive threats like Feraligatr and Flygon and boost Gyro Ball's power. Iron Barbs is Ferroseed's only ability, but it is useful in providing chip damage against attackers that typically use contact moves, such as Feraligatr and Sharpedo. Iron Barbs also has the benefit of punishing Rapid Spin.

Usage Tips
========

Bring Ferroseed in on the Pokemon it is able to check, such as physically offensive Water-types like Feraligatr. Early on, especially if the opponent lacks entry hazard removal, stack Spikes. If the opponent does have a hazard remover that can easily switch into Ferroseed, such as Flygon or Mantine, either double switch or use Leech Seed for recovery. As Ferroseed lacks reliable recovery, make sure Ferroseed maintains enough health to check threatening Pokemon like Feraligatr and Sharpedo. Avoid letting Ferroseed get burned by Pokemon such as Milotic, Mantine, and Jellicent, as this will cut into Ferroseed's longevity and removes remove its offensive presence.

Team Options
========

Wallbreakers such as Heracross and Ninetales appreciate Ferroseed's Spikes weakening their checks and turning would-be 2HKOs into OHKOs. Ferroseed's Spikes and ability to spread chip damage through Iron Barbs and Leech Seed additionally help sweepers such as Feraligatr and Snorlax clean up late-game. Florges can pass Wishes to Ferroseed to keep it healthy, heal it of any potential burns, and check Heracross. Answers to common setup sweepers are appreciated to offset Ferroseed's passive nature, allowing it to more freely set up Spikes. Pangoro can handle Calm Mind Reuniclus, while Choice Scarf Shaymin can answer Dragon Dance Feraligatr. Sableye can spinblock while handling Substitute + Calm Mind variants of Meloetta. Rock-types like Rhyperior and Gigalith can switch into Fire-type attacks and can form a hazard stacking core with Ferroseed, though they compound a weakness to Fighting-types. Water-types such as Kingdra and Feraligatr can make for good partners, as they are able to take on Fire-types for Ferroseed. Bulkier Water-types such as Milotic and Slowbro also make for good partners, though they must be wary of Fire-types like Moltres and Salazzle using Ferroseed as an opportunity to set up Substitute or Nasty Plot, respectively. Jellicent is a solid partner in this regard, since it supports Ferroseed as a Water-type and can additionally spinblock. Hoopa is a possible partner, as its Ghost typing allows it to spinblock for Ferroseed in a pinch, while Ferroseed's Spikes help Hoopa to wallbreak.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============

Thunder Wave is an option over Protect to slow down opposing Pokemon, finding use on offensive or balanced teams in easing revenge kills and potentially creating setup opportunities. Alternatively, Toxic can be used on more defensive team structures to further wear down foes and put setup sweepers on a shorter timer. Toxic is also useful to pressure entry hazard removers like Mantine and Gligar. Stealth Rock can be used, but Ferroseed is typically outclassed as a Stealth Rock setter by Pokemon like Nidoqueen, Gigalith, and Rhyperior, as these Pokemon are far less passive.

Checks and Counters
===================

**Fire-types and Coverage**: Ferroseed has a 4x weakness to Fire, leaving it extremely vulnerable to Fire-types such as Salazzle, Torkoal, and Moltres, as well as Pokemon that typically carry Fire-type coverage, such as Shaymin.

**Fighting-types**: Most Fighting-types in RU have the power to break through Ferroseed. Heracross in particular is difficult to safely switch into and can pressure Ferroseed's team, though it does take a sizable chunk of damage from Gyro Ball upon switch in.

**Grass-types**: Grass-types are immune to Leech Seed, denying Ferroseed recovery. Those that typically carry Fire- or Fighting-type coverage, such as Shaymin, Roserade, Virizion, and Chesnaught, can be particularly threatening. Chesnaught is of special note in that it is immune to Gyro Ball, resists Ferroseed's other potential attacks, and can use Taunt to prevent Ferroseed's Spikes while layering Spikes of its own.

**Taunt**: Taunt users such as Sableye, Alolan Persian, and Chesnaught prevent Ferroseed from setting up Spikes or recovering with Leech Seed.

**Magic Bounce**: Espeon and Xatu can reflect Ferroseed's Spikes and block Leech Seed with their ability Magic Bounce. However, Espeon takes a good deal of damage from Gyro Ball, and neither Pokemon appreciates Knock Off.

**Knock Off**: Knock Off strips Ferroseed's Eviolite, letting it be broken through by Pokemon it would normally check.

**Burn**: Burn takes a toll on Ferroseed's longevity and removes its offensive presence. Scald users like Milotic and Mantine as well as Will-O-Wisp users like Jellicent can pressure Ferroseed in this way, though they do allow it to get one layer of Spikes up in the process.

**Reuniclus**: While Reuniclus cannot prevent Spikes, it does deny Ferroseed recovery through Magic Guard and uses it as setup fodder.
 

GMars

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remove add / fix (comments); (AC=add comma; RC=remove comma; SC=semicolon)
GP 2/2
[OVERVIEW]

Ferroseed has an excellent typing with a wide array of resistances along with good bulk thanks to Eviolite, and its access to Spikes lets it support sweepers and wallbreakers as well as defensive archetypes. Ferroseed can take advantage of the large number of passive Pokemon in the RU metagame, such as Bronzong, Cresselia, Florges, Snorlax, and Comfey, as an opportunity to set up Spikes. In addition, Ferroseed has a good matchup against most entry hazard removal options through the combination of Leech Seed and Iron Barbs; Iron Barbs punishes Rapid Spin, while Leech Seed punishes repeated Defog attempts, allowing Ferroseed to pressure hazard removers. Unfortunately, Ferroseed is troubled by its low offensive stats, leaving it passive and potentially exploitable by setup sweepers. Threatening Pokemon such as Reuniclus and Heracross can easily take advantage of its passive nature to place pressure on its team. Outside of Leech Seed, Ferroseed lacks reliable recovery options; its reliance on Eviolite additionally means it cannot viably use Leftovers for passive healing. This can leave Ferroseed less consistent than other Spikes setters—in particular, Ferroseed faces heavy competition from Chesnaught as a defensive Spikes user due to Chesnaught's better recovery and offensive presence.

[SET]
name: Spikes
move 1: Spikes
move 2: Leech Seed
move 3: Protect
move 4: Gyro Ball / Knock Off
item: Eviolite
ability: Iron Barbs
nature: Relaxed
evs: 248 HP / 104 Def / 156 SpD

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

Spikes is Ferroseed's primary niche, quickly wearing down grounded foes to support Ferroseed's teammates. Leech Seed is Ferroseed's only form of recovery, but it can provide decent health due to Ferroseed's low base HP stat. Protect allows for more Leech Seed recovery and enables Ferroseed to scout for Choice-locked moves. Gyro Ball allows Ferroseed to deal solid damage to Fairy-types and prevents Minior from using Ferroseed as setup fodder. Because Ferroseed has extremely low Speed, Gyro Ball's likely high Base Power can offset Ferroseed's otherwise low offensive stats. Knock Off can be used to punish switch-ins such as Gligar and Dhelmise as well as remove Life Orb from Pokemon like Feraligatr, improving Ferroseed's walling ability. Seed Bomb is another possible option, as it allows Ferroseed to handle Substitute variants of Feraligatr and otherwise deal decent damage to the Water-types Ferroseed checks.

Set Details
========

Eviolite boosts Ferroseed's Defense and Special Defense by 50%, giving it the bulk it needs to function in the RU metagame. 248 HP EVs are used to maximize Ferroseed's mixed bulk while minimizing residual damage. (Ferroseed's max HP is only divisible by 4, not by 8 / 16, so I'm reasonably sure there's no reason to drop HP EVs?) 156 Special Defense EVs allow Ferroseed to avoid being 2HKOed by Modest Nidoqueen's Earth Power, and 104 Defense EVs with a Relaxed nature allow Ferroseed to more effectively check physically offensive threats like Feraligatr and Flygon and boost Gyro Ball's power. Iron Barbs is Ferroseed's only ability, but it is useful in providing chip damage against attackers that typically use contact moves, such as Feraligatr and Sharpedo. Iron Barbs also has the benefit of punishing Rapid Spin.

Usage Tips
========

Bring Ferroseed in on the Pokemon it is able to check, such as physically offensive Water-types like Feraligatr. Early on, especially if the opponent lacks entry hazard removal, stack Spikes. If the opponent does have a hazard remover that can easily switch into Ferroseed, such as Flygon or Mantine, either double switch or use Leech Seed for recovery. As Ferroseed lacks reliable recovery, make sure Ferroseed maintains enough health to check threatening Pokemon like Feraligatr and Sharpedo. Avoid letting Ferroseed get burned by Pokemon such as Milotic, Mantine, and Jellicent, as this will cut into Ferroseed's longevity and removes remove its offensive presence.

Team Options
========

Wallbreakers such as Heracross and Ninetales appreciate Ferroseed's Spikes weakening their checks and turning would-be 2HKOs into OHKOs. Ferroseed's Spikes and ability to spread chip damage through Iron Barbs and Leech Seed additionally help sweepers such as Feraligatr and Snorlax clean up late-game. Florges can pass Wishes to Ferroseed to keep it healthy, heal it of any potential burns, and check Heracross. Answers to common setup sweepers are appreciated to offset Ferroseed's passive nature, allowing it to more freely set up Spikes. Pangoro can handle Calm Mind Reuniclus, while Choice Scarf Shaymin can answer Dragon Dance Feraligatr. Sableye can spinblock while handling Substitute + Calm Mind variants of Meloetta. Rock-types like Rhyperior and Gigalith can switch into Fire-type attacks and can form a hazard stacking core with Ferroseed, though they compound a weakness to Fighting-types. Water-types such as Kingdra and Feraligatr can make for good partners, as they are able to take on Fire-types for Ferroseed. Bulkier Water-types such as Milotic and Slowbro also make for good partners, though they must be wary of Fire-types like Moltres and Salazzle using Ferroseed as an opportunity to set up Substitute or Nasty Plot, respectively. Jellicent is a solid partner in this regard, since it supports Ferroseed as a Water-type and can additionally spinblock. Hoopa is a possible partner, as its Ghost typing allows it to spinblock for Ferroseed in a pinch, while Ferroseed's Spikes help Hoopa to wallbreak.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============

Thunder Wave is an option over Protect to slow down opposing Pokemon, finding use on offensive or balanced teams in easing revenge kills and potentially creating setup opportunities. Alternatively, Toxic can be used on more defensive team structures to further wear down foes and put setup sweepers on a shorter timer. Toxic is also useful to pressure entry hazard removers like Mantine and Gligar. Stealth Rock can be used, but Ferroseed is typically outclassed as a Stealth Rock setter by Pokemon like Nidoqueen, Gigalith, and Rhyperior, as these Pokemon are far less passive.

Checks and Counters
===================

**Fire-types and Coverage**: Ferroseed has a 4x weakness to Fire, leaving it extremely vulnerable to Fire-types such as Salazzle, Torkoal, and Moltres, as well as Pokemon that typically carry Fire-type coverage, such as Shaymin.

**Fighting-types**: Most Fighting-types in RU have the power to break through Ferroseed. Heracross in particular is difficult to safely switch into and can pressure Ferroseed's team, though it does take a sizable chunk of damage from Gyro Ball upon switch in.

**Grass-types**: Grass-types are immune to Leech Seed, denying Ferroseed recovery. Those that typically carry Fire- or Fighting-type coverage, such as Shaymin, Roserade, Virizion, and Chesnaught, can be particularly threatening. Chesnaught is of special note in that it is immune to Gyro Ball, resists Ferroseed's other potential attacks, and can use Taunt to prevent Ferroseed's Spikes while layering Spikes of its own.

**Taunt**: Taunt users such as Sableye, Alolan Persian, and Chesnaught prevent Ferroseed from setting up Spikes or recovering with Leech Seed.

**Magic Bounce**: Espeon and Xatu can reflect Ferroseed's Spikes and block Leech Seed with their ability Magic Bounce. However, Espeon takes a good deal of damage from Gyro Ball, and neither Pokemon appreciates Knock Off.

**Knock Off**: Knock Off strips Ferroseed's Eviolite, letting it be broken through by Pokemon it would normally check.

**Burn**: Burn takes a toll on Ferroseed's longevity and removes its offensive presence. Scald users like Milotic and Mantine as well as Will-O-Wisp users like Jellicent can pressure Ferroseed in this way, though they do allow it to get one layer of Spikes up in the process.

**Reuniclus**: While Reuniclus cannot prevent Spikes, it does deny Ferroseed recovery through Magic Guard and uses it as setup fodder.
Thank you - implemented! As for the HP EVs, avoiding having Ferroseed's HP divisible by 4 reduces damage from opposing spike stackers and does not otherwise negatively impact Ferroseed's defenses. I have more explicitly stated this in the analysis as "248 HP EVs are used to maximize Ferroseed's mixed bulk while minimizing residual damage against opposing Spikes." - please let me know if this change is okay.

Otherwise, Ferroseed should now be done, thank you everyone! Nice n' 300th post
 
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GMars

It's ya boy GEEEEEEEEMARS
is a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Battle Simulator Admin Alumnusis a Social Media Contributor Alumnusis a Senior Staff Member Alumnusis a Community Contributor Alumnusis a Top CAP Contributor Alumnusis a Top Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Media Contributor Alumnus

[OVERVIEW]

Ferroseed has an excellent typing with a wide array of resistances along with good bulk thanks to Eviolite, and its access to Spikes lets it support sweepers and wallbreakers as well as defensive archetypes. Ferroseed can take advantage of the large number of passive Pokemon in the RU metagame, such as Bronzong, Cresselia, Florges, Snorlax, and Comfey, as an opportunity to set up Spikes. In addition, Ferroseed has a good matchup against most entry hazard removal options through the combination of Leech Seed and Iron Barbs; Iron Barbs punishes Rapid Spin, while Leech Seed punishes repeated Defog attempts, allowing Ferroseed to pressure hazard removers. Unfortunately, Ferroseed is troubled by its low offensive stats, leaving it passive and potentially exploitable by setup sweepers. Threatening Pokemon such as Reuniclus and Heracross can easily take advantage of its passive nature to place pressure on its team. Outside of Leech Seed, Ferroseed lacks reliable recovery options; its reliance on Eviolite additionally means it cannot viably use Leftovers for passive healing. This can leave Ferroseed less consistent than other Spikes setters—in particular, Ferroseed faces heavy competition from Chesnaught as a defensive Spikes user due to Chesnaught's better recovery and offensive presence.

[SET]
name: Spikes
move 1: Spikes
move 2: Leech Seed
move 3: Protect
move 4: Gyro Ball / Knock Off
item: Eviolite
ability: Iron Barbs
nature: Relaxed
evs: 248 HP / 104 Def / 156 SpD

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========

Spikes is Ferroseed's primary niche, quickly wearing down grounded foes to support Ferroseed's teammates. Leech Seed is Ferroseed's only form of recovery, but it can provide decent health due to Ferroseed's low base HP stat. Protect allows for more Leech Seed recovery and enables Ferroseed to scout for Choice-locked moves. Gyro Ball allows Ferroseed to deal solid damage to Fairy-types and prevents Minior from using Ferroseed as setup fodder. Because Ferroseed has extremely low Speed, Gyro Ball's likely high Base Power can offset Ferroseed's otherwise low offensive stats. Knock Off can be used to punish switch-ins such as Gligar and Dhelmise as well as remove Life Orb from Pokemon like Feraligatr, improving Ferroseed's walling ability. Seed Bomb is another option, as it allows Ferroseed to handle Substitute variants of Feraligatr and otherwise deal decent damage to the Water-types Ferroseed checks.

Set Details
========

Eviolite boosts Ferroseed's Defense and Special Defense by 50%, giving it the bulk it needs to function in the RU metagame. 248 HP EVs are used to maximize Ferroseed's mixed bulk while minimizing residual damage against opposing Spikes. 156 Special Defense EVs allow Ferroseed to avoid being 2HKOed by Modest Nidoqueen's Earth Power, and 104 Defense EVs with a Relaxed nature allow Ferroseed to more effectively check physically offensive threats like Feraligatr and Flygon and boost Gyro Ball's power. Iron Barbs is Ferroseed's only ability, but it is useful in providing chip damage against attackers that typically use contact moves, such as Feraligatr and Sharpedo. Iron Barbs also has the benefit of punishing Rapid Spin.

Usage Tips
========

Bring Ferroseed in on the Pokemon it is able to check, such as physically offensive Water-types like Feraligatr. Early on, especially if the opponent lacks entry hazard removal, stack Spikes. If the opponent does have a hazard remover that can easily switch into Ferroseed, such as Flygon or Mantine, either double switch or use Leech Seed for recovery. As Ferroseed lacks reliable recovery, make sure Ferroseed maintains enough health to check threatening Pokemon like Feraligatr and Sharpedo. Avoid letting Ferroseed get burned by Pokemon such as Milotic, Mantine, and Jellicent, as this will cut into Ferroseed's longevity and remove its offensive presence.

Team Options
========

Wallbreakers such as Heracross and Ninetales appreciate Ferroseed's Spikes weakening their checks and turning would-be 2HKOs into OHKOs. Ferroseed's Spikes and ability to spread chip damage through Iron Barbs and Leech Seed additionally help sweepers such as Feraligatr and Snorlax clean up late-game. Florges can pass Wishes to Ferroseed to keep it healthy, heal it of any potential burns, and check Heracross. Answers to common setup sweepers are appreciated to offset Ferroseed's passive nature, allowing it to more freely set up Spikes. Pangoro can handle Calm Mind Reuniclus, while Choice Scarf Shaymin can answer Dragon Dance Feraligatr. Sableye can spinblock while handling Substitute + Calm Mind variants of Meloetta. Rock-types like Rhyperior and Gigalith can switch into Fire-type attacks and can form a hazard stacking core with Ferroseed, though they compound a weakness to Fighting-types. Water-types such as Kingdra and Feraligatr can make for good partners, as they are able to take on Fire-types for Ferroseed. Bulkier Water-types such as Milotic and Slowbro also make for good partners, though they must be wary of Fire-types like Moltres and Salazzle using Ferroseed as an opportunity to set up Substitute or Nasty Plot, respectively. Jellicent is a solid partner in this regard, since it supports Ferroseed as a Water-type and can additionally spinblock. Hoopa is a possible partner, as its Ghost typing allows it to spinblock for Ferroseed in a pinch, while Ferroseed's Spikes help Hoopa to wallbreak.

[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============

Thunder Wave is an option over Protect to slow down opposing Pokemon, finding use on offensive or balanced teams in easing revenge kills and potentially creating setup opportunities. Alternatively, Toxic can be used on more defensive team structures to further wear down foes and put setup sweepers on a shorter timer. Toxic is also useful to pressure entry hazard removers like Mantine and Gligar. Stealth Rock can be used, but Ferroseed is typically outclassed as a Stealth Rock setter by Pokemon like Nidoqueen, Gigalith, and Rhyperior, as these Pokemon are far less passive.

Checks and Counters
===================

**Fire-types and Coverage**: Ferroseed has a 4x weakness to Fire, leaving it extremely vulnerable to Fire-types such as Salazzle, Torkoal, and Moltres, as well as Pokemon that typically carry Fire-type coverage, such as Shaymin.

**Fighting-types**: Most Fighting-types in RU have the power to break through Ferroseed. Heracross in particular is difficult to safely switch into and can pressure Ferroseed's team, though it does take a sizable chunk of damage from Gyro Ball upon switch in.

**Grass-types**: Grass-types are immune to Leech Seed, denying Ferroseed recovery. Those that typically carry Fire- or Fighting-type coverage, such as Shaymin, Roserade, Virizion, and Chesnaught, can be particularly threatening. Chesnaught is of special note in that it is immune to Gyro Ball, resists Ferroseed's other potential attacks, and can use Taunt to prevent Ferroseed's Spikes while layering Spikes of its own.

**Taunt**: Taunt users such as Sableye, Alolan Persian, and Chesnaught prevent Ferroseed from setting up Spikes or recovering with Leech Seed.

**Magic Bounce**: Espeon and Xatu can reflect Ferroseed's Spikes and block Leech Seed with their ability Magic Bounce. However, Espeon takes a good deal of damage from Gyro Ball, and neither Pokemon appreciates Knock Off.

**Knock Off**: Knock Off strips Ferroseed's Eviolite, letting it be broken through by Pokemon it would normally check.

**Burn**: Burn takes a toll on Ferroseed's longevity and removes its offensive presence. Scald users like Milotic and Mantine as well as Will-O-Wisp users like Jellicent can pressure Ferroseed in this way, though they do allow it to get one layer of Spikes up in the process.

**Reuniclus**: While Reuniclus cannot prevent Spikes, it does deny Ferroseed recovery through Magic Guard and uses it as setup fodder.
Caching old analysis here ^, revised for nidoqueen loss in the following ways:
* Changed spread back to fully physdef, revised set details to reflect this
* Removed mention of Nidoqueen in stealth rock setters that outclass ferroseed
* Mentioned a mixed spread in OO

If there are any issues with these changes, please let me know!
 

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