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Set Description Scald's burn chance makes Gastrodon particularly difficult to switch into barring foes like Clefable, as physical attackers such as Garchomp, Landorus-T, and Weavile do not want to contend with the reduced damage output, whereas special attackers and bulky foes would rather avoid the extra chip damage. Earth Power is the preferred Ground-type move, letting Gastrodon threaten Bulk Up Zeroara reliably as well as Melmetal. It is also unaffected by Grassy Terrain and benefits from potential Special Attack boosts from Storm Drain. However, Earthquake can be run with a Sassy nature in order to threaten more damage against the likes of Galarian Slowking, Calm Mind Tapu Koko, and specially defensive Heatran. Toxic puts foes such as Zapdos, Slowbro, and opposing Gastrodon on a timer, while Clear Smog instantly eliminates stat boosts from the likes of Calm Mind Clefable, non-Substitute Calm Mind Tapu Fini, and Calm Mind Reuniclus. Protect can instead be chosen to scout Choice locks from the likes of Dragapult and Tapu Lele while also letting Gastrodon receive more Leftovers recovery. Leftovers enables Gastrodon to shrug off attacks more easily, whereas Heavy-Duty Boots lets it ignore entry hazards, namely Spikes, that would cut into its longevity. Storm Drain is the preferred ability, as the Water immunity it provides allows Gastrodon to answer foes that other Ground-types would rather avoid such as Volcanion, Tapu Fini, and Rotom-Wash. However, Sticky Hold can be run in order to block foes such as Blacephalon, Tapu Fini, Clefable, and Galarian Slowking from crippling Gastrodon with Trick, either with a Choice item, Sticky Barb, or Black Sludge. It also prevents Knock Off from removing Gastrodon's item, though the additional damage from the move still remains. 48 Defense EVs allow Gastrodon to survive a Choice Specs-boosted Psyshock from Modest Tapu Lele from full HP while in Psychic Terrain. Team Options Checks to Grass-types such as Rillaboom and Kartana are absolutely essential alongside Gastrodon; Flying-types like Tornadus-T, Corviknight, and Zapdos are prime examples of such partners. They can also provide entry hazard removal with Defog so that Gastrodon can run Leftovers more freely. Skarmory and Buzzwole are also worth mentioning, as they provide a sturdy physical counterpart to Gastrodon as well as hazard support for the former and wallbreaking potential with the latter. In return, Gastrodon can answer Electric-types and special attackers that would threaten them like Tapu Koko, Zapdos, and Heatran. Some special and mixed attackers like Tapu Lele and Arctozolt can still threaten Gastrodon; Steel-types like Heatran, Ferrothorn, and Melmetal can handle these foes for it, with the former two also setting up hazards for Gastrodon's team to make progress. Rillaboom provides Grassy Terrain support for Gastrodon, which can bolster the recovery of Leftovers variants even further or give Heavy-Duty Boots sets the passive healing they would otherwise miss out on. Cleric support from the likes of Clefable and Blissey can help Gastrodon more easily withstand foes that may attempt to cripple it with Toxic such as Heatran and Zapdos. Additional Water-type teammates such as Slowbro, Slowking, and Toxapex can check physically oriented Water-type threats such as Urshifu-R and Barraskewda as well as provide extra insurance against Nature Power Heatran. Dragonite can also check the aforementioned threats for Gastrodon, and it can provide support with Defog and Heal Bell.

Earth Power lets Gastrodon threaten Electric-, Fire-, and Steel-types with one moveslot, making it the most important attack. Ice Beam immediately pressures various Grass- and Flying-types like Celebi and Noivern. Toxic keeps walls with reliable recovery from holding Gastrodon off indefinitely, while Clear Smog puts a stop to bulky setup sweepers like Calm Mind Reuniclus. Scald is largely unnecessary to Gastrodon's role, but threatening Pokemon like Pangoro with burns can always be useful. Heavy-Duty Boots is usually the better item so Gastrodon can ignore Spikes, but teams with solid entry hazard control can let it save more HP with Leftovers. Steel- and Poison-types like Metagross, Salazzle, and Toxtricity can punish Roserade. Heal Bell support makes Gastrodon much more resilient against Toxic users; Togekiss is the overall best Pokemon with the move, but Diancie, Sylveon, and Umbreon are also options. Gastrodon is a Ground-type that loses to certain moves from Electric-types Xurkitree and Toxtricity; more consistent switch-ins to Xurkitree include Roserade, Registeel, Assault Vest Reuniclus, and Celebi, while Toxtricity's Boomburst can be handled with Steel-types like Stakataka and Metagross. Energy Ball Chandelure is a large Fire-type threat to Gastrodon that is checked with other Fire answers like Incineroar and Noivern.

Gastrodon's main STAB options in Scald and Earthquake allow it to generate offensive presence while on the field, dealing good damage to tier staples like Lycanroc-D and Moltres, with the former having potential to spread burns onto the opponent. Ice Beam pressures Salamence while catching Grass-types off guard, but due to Gastrodon's relatively weak attacking power, it is unable to 3HKO Amoonguss or Zarude. Dropping Scald also gives Gastrodon no way to punish Rotom-H. Toxic allows Gastrodon to passively chip bulkier targets such as Rotom-W and Salamence which otherwise don't care too much for Gastrodon's STAB attacks. Clear Smog is useful for stopping setup sweepers such as Calm Mind Galarian Slowbro, but it makes Gastrodon painfully passive. Heavy-Duty Boots allows Gastrodon to repeatedly switch in without being worn down by hazards, as they remove a large part of Gastrodon's functionality as a defensive Pokemon. Leftovers is an optional item to give Gastrodon passive recovery, but Heavy-Duty Boots is preferred due to how great ignoring hazard chip is. The spread allows Gastrodon to avoid being 3HKOed by Salamence's Hurricane and Nidoking's Earth Power while having enough defense investment to take on physical attackers such as Rhyperior and Barraskewda reliably. Gastrodon can also run a physically defensive spread, allowing it to better check Lycanroc-D, but powerful wallbreakers like Mamoswine and Diggersby can still overwhelm it easily. Gastrodon belongs on balance and bulky offense teams, where its defensive capabilities shine the most. Grass-types such as Amoonguss are incredible for covering Gastrodon's one weakness, while Gastrodon checks the Fire-types like Moltres that would otherwise threaten them. Both Amoonguss and Assault Vest Tangrowth can also take on problematic Pokemon like Keldeo and Primarina for Gastrodon, as their powerful attacks can overwhelm it quickly. Zarude in particular enjoys the presence of Gastrodon, as it can bring Gastrodon in on annoying checks to it like Moltres. In return, Zarude can revenge kill wallbreakers like Mamoswine and Diggersby that threaten Gastrodon. Buzzwole and Celesteela can stomach physical attacks for Gastrodon while being solid Grass-resistant Pokemon. Togekiss appreciates Gastrodon taking on Electric-types like Thundurus-T and can take on Grass-types like Zarude in return. It also can function as a cleric to remove status from Gastrodon that would otherwise hinder it. Fire-types such as Chandelure and Rotom-H appreciate Gastrodon's immunity to Water-type moves, as it can switch into those attacks for them. If Gastrodon chooses to run Leftovers, entry hazard removal from the aformentioned Rotom-H and Salamence can help keep Gastrodon from getting worn down by entry hazards.

Scald's burn chance can punish common switch-ins like Eternatus and Yveltal looking to heal or use Defog on Gastrodon, deter wallbreakers like Zekrom and Groudon from freely switching in, and better handle Kyogre in case Ice Beam freezes Gastrodon. Clear Smog is necessary to prevent Calm Mind Kyogre from boosting significantly and powering through Gastrodon. Earthquake hits Eternatus and Toxapex trying to heal or set up Toxic Spikes, and it also catches Zekrom and Dialga for respectable damage. Alternatively, Ice Beam prevents Zygarde-C from using Substitute and setting up on Gastrodon with Coil or Dragon Dance, while Icy Wind conveniently lowers the Speed of switch-ins, such as Calyrex-S and Xerneas to allow Gastrodon's partners to switch in more safely. A Sassy nature is preferred when running Earthquake, while Calm is preferred when Ice Beam or Icy Wind is chosen. Leftovers provides some much appreciated passive recovery, but Heavy-Duty Boots can help mitigate Gastrodon's weakness to Spikes and Toxic Spikes. Gastrodon covering Kyogre and Dracovish frees up Eternatus to run offensive sets. Gastrodon being a Kyogre counter and general switch-in to Water- and Electric-type moves is great for Ho-Oh, which often loses momentum to Kyogre switching into Defog or a weakened Sacred Fire. In return, Ho-Oh is a switch-in for Grass types like Ferrothorn, Zarude, and Tangrowth. Other partners like Ferrothorn and Skarmory can set Spikes to pressure threats to Gastrodon and force Yveltal to use Defog, which drains the opponent's momentum.

Gastrodon is the best check to Kyogre in the metagame; since Storm Drain and its Ground typing leave it immune to any Water- and Electric-type attacks, Kyogre can virtually only hit it with Ice Beam, Hyper Beam, and these moves' Max Moves. Gastrodon's solid bulk also means it matches up strongly against many other common Pokemon, like Zacian-C (especially ones without Play Rough), Incineroar, and Regieleki. It opts not to use a Water-type move, as Earth Power and Ice Beam already cover every Pokemon it would need to hit such as Incineroar, Landorus-T, Rillaboom, and Amoonguss. Gastrodon can also make a good situational Dynamax user in matches where it isn't scared of Grass-type moves, firing off Max Quakes to bolster its already respectable Special Defense. Yawn helps check opposing Dynamax users because, when timed correctly, they'll be forced to switch out or fall asleep without making full use of their Dynamax turns. Protect complements Yawn, stalling out the second turn necessary for the foe to fall asleep, and can temporarily keep Gastrodon safe from Grass-type moves and other powerful attacks. The EV spread allows Gastrodon to survive two Play Roughs from +1 Zacian-C, after a Protect in between, thanks to Leftovers recovery. Using 8 Speed IVs allows Gastrodon to underspeed Calyrex-I, which is vital to checking it under Trick Room.

Thanks to its all-around good bulk, this sea slug excels as a defensive wall for Water-type teams, as a switch-in to Electric-type attacks thanks to its Ground typing, and a better option over Seismitoad on balanced teams thanks to Recover, which gives it more longevity. Earthquake allows Gastrodon to effectively damage Electric-type Pokemon like Alolan Raichu and Zeraora that otherwise threaten Water-type teams, as well as breaking Substitutes from Pokemon such as Keldeo, Primarina, Dragapult, Jirachi, and Aegislash. Scald is useful for burning physical attackers like Excadrill, Scolipede, and Hawlucha, whereas Toxic can badly poison a number of Pokemon such as an opposing Gastrodon, Galarian Corsola, and Araquanid. Recover and Leftovers allow Gastrodon to stay healthy to continue spreading status ailments and serve as a defensive pivot. However, Float Stone with maximum Special Defense investment is nice for taking on Grass Knot Heliolisk and Alolan Raichu, while Heavy-Duty Boots is valuable for avoiding entry hazard damage, particularly Toxic Spikes. Storm Drain is useful to avoid Scald burns from Pokemon such as Toxapex and Mantine, while Sticky Hold is great for Knock Off users such as Bisharp, Crawdaunt, and Weavile. Maximum HP and Defense investment allows it to better take on physical attackers such as Zeraora and Excadrill. The entire team appreciates Gastrodon's role in absorbing Electric-type attacks; therefore, it fits on more balanced teams with Pokemon like Toxapex, Azumarill, Slowking, and Mantine. Toxapex is a glue on every Water team, as it provides utility with Knock Off, Toxic, and Toxic Spikes, and it can spread status effects just like Gastrodon. Azumarill offers a nice immunity to Grass-type attacks from Pokemon like Rillaboom and Ferrothorn and pairs well with Gastrodon, since that is its only weakness. Slowking helps with special attackers like Hatterene, Togekiss, Substitute Kyurem, and Psychic-type Pokemon that may try to use Expanding Force under Psychic Terrain against Gastrodon , while Mantine prevents special attackers like Volcarona, Hatterene, and Chandelure from setting up and sweep with Haze. In return, Gastrodon helps with physical attackers along with Toxapex thanks to their amazing Defense stats. Keldeo helps against Normal-, Ice-, and Steel-types such as Blissey, Kyurem, Corviknight, and Ferrothorn that wall Gastrodon with Secret Sword. Primarina helps with Dark-, Dragon- and Fighting-type Pokemon such as Hydreigon, Kyurem, and Keldeo thanks to its Fairy-type STAB moves, as well as beating passive defensive Pokemon such as Toxapex and Toxic Aegislash with Substitute and Calm Mind. Rotom-W is a nice revenge killer to Flying- and Water-type teams with Thunderbolt and offers a Ground immunity along with entry hazard removal with Defog.

While Earth Power is useful because of Gastrodon's higher Special Attack, Earthquake is preferred over it to break Keldeo and Dragapult's Substitute. Scald can cripple many physical attackers such as Weavile, Bisharp, Galarian Darmanitan, and Dragonite due to its decent burn chance. Toxic is able to cripple many switch-ins and foes that Gastrodon wouldn't be able to deal with otherwise such as Latios, Latias, Rotom-W, and Mantine. Recover is mandatory to heal off damage from threats like Barraskewda, Keldeo, and Kingdra, letting it consistently check them. Leftovers gives Gastrodon extra recovery in order to preserve its health better. A physically defensive spread allows Gastrodon to take hits from foes like Secret Sword Keldeo, Barraskewda, and Weavile better. Avoid getting Gastrodon too weakened by moves or status conditions like Toxic, since it will be unable to consistently wall Pokemon and may get KOed by Water-type Pokemon with other STAB moves like Urshifu-R and Kingdra. Hippowdon forms a decent defensive core with Gastrodon, as its Sand Stream and access to Stealth Rock make it capable of wearing down foes easily. Excadrill is an excellent offensive partner that can pressure foes that give Gastrodon trouble like Latias, Zarude, Tapu Lele, Kyurem, and Tapu Bulu and function even more effectively under Hippowdon's sand. It can also remove troublesome entry hazards for Gastrodon with Rapid Spin. Mamoswine is able to revenge kill fast Dragon-, Grass-, and Flying-types that give Gastrodon trouble such as Dragapult, Hydreigon, Zarude, and Thundurus-T with Ice Shard, making it a useful wallbreaker. Nidoking is particularly useful for its ability to absorb Toxic Spikes for Gastrodon and KO problematic foes like Ferrothorn, Amoonguss, and Skarmory due to its excellent coverage and good power with Life Orb and Sheer Force. Choice Scarf Landorus-T can outspeed and revenge kill wallbreakers that Gastrodon struggles against such as Spectrier, Tapu Lele, and Gengar while removing entry hazards for it with Defog. Swords Dance Garchomp is a great wallbreaker that breaks past bulky foes such as Slowking, Ferrothorn, and Celesteela with Fire Fang while providing a useful Grass neutrality for Gastrodon. Choice Scarf Krookodile is an option to deal with Psychic- and Ghost-types that Gastrodon dislikes dealing with such as Tapu Lele, Celebi, Dragapult, and Spectrier.

Ice Beam OHKOes significant threats like Landorus and Zygarde, while Earth Power provides super effective damage against Incineroar and Heatran. Toxic wears down bulkier Pokemon that Gastrodon is unable to deal significant damage to, such as Porygon2. This combined with Recover allows Gastrodon to potentially outlast and wear out opposing threats that can't make it past its special bulk. Storm Drain is the main reason to use Gastrodon, redirecting moves like Urshifu-R's Surging Strikes and Volcanion's Steam Eruption away from vulnerable teammates. The Special Attack Investment allows Gastrodon to OHKO significant threats such as Zygarde and Landorus, while the HP and Special Defense EVs plus Sitrus Berry enable Gastrodon to avoid the 2HKO from Landorus's Earth Power.

Physically defensive Gastrodon can take on prominent physical threats such as Zeraora, Buzzwole, and Necrozma-DM while still being able to check several special attackers like Volcanion and Heavy-Duty Boots Tapu Koko. Scald discourages Steel-type Pokemon like Necrozma-DM, which don't fear Clear Smog, from trying to set up on Gastrodon and Grass-types like Rillaboom and Kartana from switching in thanks to its high burn chance. Clear Smog prevents non-Steel-types, notably Weavile and Buzzwole, from muscling through Gastrodon with their setup moves. Earthquake hits several Pokemon harder than Scald, among them Galarian Slowking and Heatran. Toxic is an alternative that cripples defensive Pokemon such as Tangrowth and Slowbro; however, frequent Scald burns make it not as effective, in addition to many of its checks having Regenerator remedying its usefulness. Rocky Helmet is preferred to punish contact moves, especially U-turn from the likes of Tapu Koko and Victini and Triple Axel from Weavile. Leftovers can be used instead to offset chip damage from entry hazards. Relaxed is the go-to nature to preserve Earthquake's damage, but Bold should be used instead if Toxic is chosen over Earthquake. Physically defensive Gastrodon is typically found on bulky balance teams. Gods with high Defense stats, such as Calyrex-I, Groudon, and Necrozma-DM, are required to maximize Gastrodon's physical bulk. Grass-types, in particular Kartana and Rillaboom, easily OHKO Gastrodon, so teammates that can deal with them like Skarmory and Necrozma-DM make good partners. While Gastrodon can take on some special attackers, strong special wallbreakers like Kyurem-W still can break through it, so special walls such as Reuniclus make great partners. Reuniclus also enjoys Gastrodon's ability to deal with Volcanion and Tapu Koko which it can't properly check. Entry hazards hinder Gastrodon's role, which makes Defog support from Skarmory and Tornadus-T valuable.

Specially defensive Gastrodon stands out as one of the best special walls with a Special Defense donation thanks to its ability to deal with the most prominent special attackers in Tapu Koko. Scald discourages physical attackers like Rillaboom and Necrozma-DM from switching in by threatening them with a burn. Toxic cripples common defensive switch-ins, in particular Tangrowth and opposing Gastrodon. Clear Smog prevents bulky Pokemon with setup moves from muscling past it, especially Tapu Fini and Clefable, as they aren't afraid of Toxic. Earthquake can instead be used to better deal with Substitute users like Volcanion. Leftovers gives Gastrodon extra recovery and reduces the need to use Recover's PP. If opposing Spikes is a concern, then Heavy-Duty Boots is a viable alternative. Calm is the preferred nature on sets with Clear Smog, while Earthquake variant opts for Sassy to avoid reducing Earthquake's damage. Specially defensive Gastrodon is seen on balance and stall teams as a reliable special wall. Gods with great Special Defense such as Ho-Oh and Giratina pair well with Gastrodon. Ho-Oh is a common partner thanks to their defensive synergy; Ho-Oh can take on Kyurem-W and Grass-types, particularly Kartana and Ferrothorn, for Gastrodon while Gastrodon deals with Water- and Electric-types like Volcanion and Tapu Koko. Other answers to Grass-types, notably Skarmory and Volcarona, also make great teammates. Strong physically offensive Pokemon such as Rayquaza and Victini can easily break through Gastrodon, which Rotom-W can handle. If Gastrodon forgoes Heavy-Duty Boots, the aforementioned Ho-Oh, Rotom-W, and Skarmory can also provide Defog support. Answers to Psychic-types like Mewtwo and Tapu Lele, which can target Gastrodon's weaker Defense stat with Psystrike and Psyshock, respectively, are necessary, so Steel-types like Necrozma-DM and Heatran or Psychic-types like Slowbro are recommended. On stall teams, Whirlwind from Giratina prevents Substitute foes such as Corviknight from using Gastrodon as setup bait. Cleric support from Clefable is also appreciated to help Gastrodon stay healthy.

Gastrodon is a formidable specially defensive wall on bulkier teams, sporting an amazing defensive typing and good bulk, allowing it to safely check Electric- and Fire-types such as Tapu Koko, Magnezone, and Heatran. A stellar ability in Storm Drain further lets it check the likes of Ash-Greninja and Manaphy lacking Energy Ball. However, it tends to get worn down and overpowered with constant offensive pressure, status effects, and entry hazards. Scald lets Gastrodon threaten physical attackers such as Landorus-T, Mega Swampert, Rillaboom, Garchomp, and Kartana with burn. Alternatively, Toxic puts its switch-ins such as Tangrowth, Kommo-o, and Kyurem on a timer. Earthquake lets Gastrodon nail specially defensive Heatran, as well as hitting the numerous Electric-types that it checks, such as Magnezone, Tapu Koko, and Zeraora. Clear Smog prevents Calm Mind Tapu Fini and Clefable from using it as setup fodder, as well as letting it check Manaphy lacking Energy Ball. Leftovers means Gastrodon doesn't get worn down as quickly. Gastrodon fits best on bulkier balance or stall teams that appreciate it checking the likes of Manaphy, Ash-Greninja, and Clefable. Corviknight, Mega Scizor, and Mega Latias are stellar to take the strong Grass-type attacks directed at Gastrodon from the likes of Rillaboom and Kartana, and it can switch into Fire- and Electric-type moves such as Tapu Koko’s Thunderbolt and Heatran’s Magma Storm for the first two. Due to Gastrodon's vulnerability to Toxic, Pokemon such as Chansey and Clefable that can absorb and/or remove status effects work well with it. Gastrodon’s low Defense lets the likes of Mega Medicham, Mega Mawile, and Mega Lopunny easily pressure it, so teammates such as Skarmory, Corviknight and Clefable are great partners. Special attackers with super effective coverage such as Mega Charizard Y, Kyurem, and Protean Greninja can break past Gastrodon, so checks to these such as Chansey and Blissey are good partners. Good entry hazard control from Pokemon such as Mega Sableye and Corviknight is phenomenal, making it harder to wear down.

The Special Defense investment avoids the 2HKO from Earth Power Nidoqueen after Stealth Rock damage. Sets with full investment in either Defense or Special Defense can be run, but they give up the ability to check specific threats such as the aforementioned Nidoqueen.

Recover gives Gastrodon reliable recovery and lets it fulfill the role of a wall. Scald's potential burn specifically threatens physical sweepers such as Dragonite and Excadrill. Earth Power makes Gastrodon able to take on Steel-types, such as Excadrill and Heatran, and Toxapex after a Storm Drain boost. Earthquake is an option that OHKOes Alolan Raichu and breaks the Substitutes of Keldeo and Mega Gallade, making it more difficult for them to setup. Toxic lets Gastrodon spread status and cripple opposing walls that brush off or are unaffected by its STAB moves, such as Rotom-W, Staraptor, and Porygon2. Clear Smog prevents threatening setup sweepers from setting up, such as Azumarill, Kommo-o, and Latias. Storm Drain in conjunction with Gastrodon's typing gives Ground teams a valuable Water immunity and Ice neutrality. The EV spread and Bold nature give Gastrodon as much physical bulk as possible; a Relaxed nature is preferred if you opt for Earthquake. Gastrodon fits on both sand and non-sand Ground teams, as all Ground-types appreciate its immunity to Water and Ice neutrality. On sand teams, Hippowdon is a good physical wall and sand setter to pair with Gastrodon because it can set entry hazards and phaze with Whirlwind. Excadrill can spin away entry hazards such as Toxic Spikes that are a detriment to Gastrodon's longevity and break through foes that have been worn down from Gastrodon's Toxic or Scald burn. Landorus makes a great teammate on both sand and non-sand teams to wallbreak and take on Grass- and Steel-types that Gastrodon is unable to, such as Mega Venusaur and Celesteela, thanks to its Gravity support and Sheer Force and Life Orb-boosted Earth Power. Mamoswine gives Ground teams another Ice switch-in due to Thick Fat, can take on Dragon- and Flying-types that wear Gastrodon down such as Latios and Zapdos, and has access to priority in Ice Shard that can break Dragonite's Multiscale. Mega Garchomp is another great teammate that survives an Aqua Jet from Azumarill after a Belly Drum and OHKOes it with Earthquake. Mega Steelix is a viable option that helps Gastrodon specifically in the Fairy and Ice matchups, since it can take on Tapu Bulu and Galarian Darmanitan with relative ease.

With Storm Drain and its part-Ground typing, Gastrodon is one of the better switch-ins to Choice item Kyogre sets. Earth Power can be used in place of Counter to hit Zacian-C super effectively, heavily damaging it without relying on Gastrodon itself getting hit first. It also can punish a Zacian-C trying to grab a free switch on Mirror Coat. Yawn can help play around Dynamax sweepers like Zapdos, forcing them out and potentially allowing Gastrodon to get a vital Recover off. It should be used carefully, however, as Max Starfall users can bypass its effect. Mirror Coat can be used to more immediately pressure the special attackers Gastrodon will be walling, but it comes at the cost of some longevity. Additionally, Mirror Coat does not affect Dark-types, such as Yveltal. Earthquake can be used over Earth Power to hit Kyogre harder, which helps against Substitute and Calm Mind variants. Gastrodon can potentially be used as a wincon via timer stalling, though this is not a use to rely on consistently. If attempting this, consider using a shiny Gastrodon to whittle down the timer more on every switch-in. Items Leftovers is preferred to augment Gastrodon’s longevity, allowing it to passively heal from lesser damage sources like Stealth Rock. Sitrus Berry is an alternative longevity option. Rindo Berry can be useful to survive surprise Grass-type attacks aimed at Gastrodon. EV Spreads 228 HP / 180 Def / 100 SpD with Calm - This prevents the 2HKO from Modest Ice Beam from Choice Specs Kyogre, as well as avoiding the OHKO from Adamant Zacian-C’s Play Rough and Choice Band Urshifu-S’s Wicked Blow, barring a maximum damage roll from the latter. However, it comes at the cost of some resilience against Zapdos and Yveltal. 252 HP / 4 Def / 252 SpD with Calm - This spread maximizes Gastrodon’s special bulk but leaves it heavily threatened by strong physical attackers.

This set maximizes Gastrodon’s physical bulk, allowing it to act as a sort of mixed wall, being somewhat competent against threats like Zacian-C while maintaining effectiveness against Choice item Kyogre variants. Counter and Mirror Coat are used in tandem with Focus Sash to potentially trade with massive threats, such as Landorus-T, Zacian-C, Zapdos, and Urshifu-S. Earth Power can be useful against Zacian-C, punishing it on the switch and getting around potential Counter mind games. Yawn can be used to annoy setup and utility-based Pokemon, but it does make Gastrodon more vulnerable to Taunt. Additionally, Dynamax users with Fairy-type attacks can use Max Starfall to block sleep. Items Focus Sash is the preferred item, allowing Gastrodon to get maximum value out of both Counter and Mirror Coat. If running Yawn or Earth Power, consider Leftovers or Sitrus Berry for slightly more longevity. Rindo Berry can also be used to potentially save Gastrodon from a surprise Grass-type attack.

Moves Scald can cripple physical attackers such as Torterra and Kangaskhan with a burn and discourages them from coming in while dissuading setup sweepers such as Dodrio and Absol from using Gastrodon as setup fodder. Toxic is Gastrodon's best way of crippling switch-ins such as Bellossom, Oricorio-E, and Drampa. Finally, Earthquake is used over Earth Power, as it hits Alolan Raichu, Lanturn, and Jynx harder than Earth Power. Set Details Storm Drain allows Gastrodon to check Water-types like Jellicent and non-Hidden Power Grass Omastar. A Sassy nature is preferred over an Careful or Calm nature, as it doesn't weaken Scald or Earthquake. The EV investment in Special Defense allows Gastrodon to avoid the 2HKO from +2 Modest Omastar's Ice Beam after Stealth Rock and Leftovers recovery. Usage Tips Gastrodon should be used as a check to Rock-, Water-, Electric-, and Poison-types like Lycanroc, Jellicent, non-Hidden Power Grass Lanturn, and Skuntank. It can then force them out and use Toxic on the switch-in, attack, or heal if low on health. Due to its Ground typing, it can be used to stop Volt Switch. However, it dislikes being hit by coverage moves that users of Volt Switch commonly use, such as Hidden Power Grass from Lanturn or Giga Drain from Eelektross. Due to its lack of offensive presence, it should mainly spread status with Scald and Toxic to cripple switch-ins like Eelektross when the foe can't cripple or hurt Gastrodon. However, it should be wary of status absorbers such as Clefairy and Stoutland. Since Gastrodon should stay healthy to check what it's supposed to, use Recover when Gastrodon is low on health. Recover should primarily be used on a predicted or forced switch to avoid giving up as much momentum. Gastrodon should be kept away from status, especially Toxic; while crippling threats such as Mudsdale and Poliwrath with Toxic seems wise, they often can cripple Gastrodon in return. Finally, while Gastrodon has great bulk, it shouldn't be switched in on hard hitters such as Stoutland, Choice Band Dodrio, and Drampa. Team Options Gastrodon fits well on balance and stall teams due to its typing and ability, letting it check dangerous threats for such builds such as Lycanroc and Choice Specs Jellicent. Since Gastrodon is weak to Grass-types, Pokemon that can deal with them such as Oricorio-E and Victreebel are necessary. The former can punish Quiver Dance Bellossom, while the latter can come in on a predicted Toxic from the likes of Mudsdale and Regirock. Skuntank is a solid option, as it can absorb Toxic Spikes, come in on a predicted Toxic, and remove entry hazards from the field for Gastrodon. Due to Gastrodon's susceptibility to Toxic Spikes, entry hazard removers make for good partners. Alolan Sandslash is a very solid partner, as it can switch into a predicted Toxic and Grass-type attacks and is immune to Toxic Spikes. Lurantis is another solid option, as it can also switch into Grass-type attacks. Status absorbers and clerics work well alongside Gastrodon due to its susceptibility to Toxic. Audino is a nice partner thanks to its access to Heal Bell, and Gastrodon can check the Rock-types Audino lets in for free. Stoutland can take Toxic for Gastrodon and appreciates Gastrodon's ability to check Rock-types. Pokemon that can deal with strong wallbreakers, such as Aurorus and Stoutland, that Gastrodon can't check work well alongside it. Therefore, Pokemon like Clefairy, which can check the former, and Metang, which can take on the latter, make for nice partners. In return, Gastrodon checks Poison-, Rock-, and Steel-types for Clefairy, while Gastrodon checks Fire-types for Metang. Articuno is another good partner, as it can even heal Gastrodon from status with Heal Bell while being able to check Grass-types and most special attackers. In return, Gastrodon checks Rock- and Steel-types.

Moves Recover allows Gastrodon to stay healthy throughout the match. Earthquake allows Gastrodon to hit Raikou, Salazzle, and Dragalge very hard. Ice Beam can OHKO Zygarde-10%, Noivern after Stealth Rock damage, and a weakened Flygon, as well as dealing important chip damage to a potential Grass-type that attempts to switch into it such as Virizion, Roserade, or Shaymin. Toxic can cripple common switch-ins such as Slowbro, Goodra, and Florges. Scald is a decent option that can spread burns to physically offensive Pokemon like Metagross and Tyrantrum. Set Details With the given EV spread and a Careful nature, Gastrodon is 4HKOed by Mega Blastoise's Dark Pulse and only 2HKOed by +2 Barbaracle's Continental Crush and Choice Band Zygarde-10%'s Outrage and Thousand Arrows after Stealth Rock. 16 Attack EVs guarantee that Barbaracle will be OHKOed after Spikes or Stealth Rock damage and a Shell Smash Defense drop. Storm Drain gives Gastrodon a Water immunity and a Special Attack boost if it is hit by a Water-type move. Usage Tips Gastrodon should aim to use its resistances and immunities to pivot into Pokemon like Mega Blastoise, Metagross, Barbaracle, Arcanine, Raikou, and Noivern so it gets an opportunity to use Toxic, an attack, or Recover. Thanks to Storm Drain, Gastrodon can easily take a Scald from Milotic, Slowbro, and Mantine; however, be cautious about these Pokemon going for Toxic if they expect Gastrodon to directly switch into them. Gastrodon should use Toxic on bulky switch-ins like Mandibuzz, Goodra, and Florges. If running Scald, use it to potentially burn any physical attackers like Metagross, Barbaracle, and Tyrantrum if they decide to stay in on Gastrodon. Be careful with using Scald if the opposing team has Machamp, as it can use its Guts ability to gain a boost in power from a Scald burn. Gastrodon should also be cautious of using Scald against bulky Pokemon like Slowbro, Milotic, and Porygon2, since Gastrodon would rather poison these targets than accidentally burn them. Gastrodon should use Recover whenever it can, ideally by forcing a switch against a Pokemon like Salazzle or Raikou. Be aware of any Grass-types the opponent may have on their team, as they can easily pivot into any of Gastrodon's STAB moves and proceed to threaten it out. Roserade and Shaymin are noteworthy, as they can also handle Toxic either by being immune to it or getting rid of it with Natural Cure. Gastrodon also has to worry about Grass-type coverage from Pokemon such as Ninetales and Yanmega as well as Hidden Power Grass from Raikou and Salazzle. These Pokemon do need to be cautious of switching into Ice Beam or Earthquake, however. If threatened with Toxic, pivot Gastodon out and replace it with a status-immune Pokemon. Team Options Gastrodon's immunity to Scald is a big sigh of relief for physically offensive Pokemon like Zygarde-10%, Metagross, and Flygon. Its Water immunity in general can be beneficial to Pokemon like Rhyperior, Arcanine, and Lycanroc-D. A check to Grass-types is mandatory when using Gastrodon, so offensive checks like Noivern, Ninetales, and Salazzle as well as defensive checks like Registeel, Goodra, and Dragalge synergize extremely well with it. Salazzle and Dragalge can also directly switch into Toxic and absorb Toxic Spikes for Gastrodon. Although niche, Golbat makes a decent partner for Gastrodon, since it can remove entry hazards with Defog and switch into Grass-type attacks for Gastrodon. Other hazard removers like Forretress, Tsareena, and Mega Blastoise appreciate Gastrodon checking Pokemon that threaten them out such as Salazzle, Raikou, and Arcanine. A cleric or Healing Wish user such as Florges or Shaymin can help cure Gastrodon of status and recover its HP. Pokemon like Noivern, Gardevoir, and Swellow appreciate Gastrodon's ability to soft check Rock- and Steel-type Pokemon that resist their STAB moves. In return, all of these Pokemon can threaten out status absorbers like Machamp for Gastrodon.

Moves Gastrodon uses Toxic to cripple defensive walls such as Slowbro, Jellicent, and Chesnaught. It should also be noted that Toxic is Gastrodon's form of pressure against Dragon-types like Latias and Hydreigon that could care less about its attacks. Set Details Storm Drain only further improves Gastrodon's defensive typing by adding a second immunity. This lets Gastrodon easily switch into Water-type attacks from Tentacruel, Primarina, and Starmie while also adding a marginal boost to Gastrodon's Scald if it stays in. Usage Tips Due to Gastrodon's higher Special Defense, it can be played much more liberally against the likes of Gengar and Nidoking. On the contrary, Gastrodon's poor Defense prevents it from being too hasty in switching into physical attackers like Cobalion or physical Infernape that its counterparts can handle more easily. Gastrodon also grants teams a valuable Volt Switch immunity against various pivots like Rotom-Heat, Mega Manectric, and Zeraora; however, it should still be wary of Toxic from the first and Grass-type coverage from the latter two. Double switching is a plausible strategy due to Gastrodon inviting Grass-types on the field for free, so an aggressive switch can be beneficial based on the scenario. Gastrodon can use Scald to fish for possible burns against some Grass-type switch-ins like Chesnaught and Tsareena to sabotage their offensive presence. Team Options Gastrodon should mainly be used on balance builds that find its higher Special Defense compared to Swampert and Seismitoad valuable to safely switch into wallbreakers like Gengar, Nidoking, and Starmie. Gastrodon easily benefits from the most consistent switch-ins to Grass-types like Latias, Togekiss, and Rotom-Heat, and the latter two appreciate Gastrodon checking Mega Manectric and Rotom-Heat. Gastrodon's resistance to Fire-type moves makes it a strong partner for Mega Aggron, which can set up Stealth Rock while also walling most offensive Grass-types that threaten Gastrodon out. Other Stealth Rock users, mainly Cobalion, Bronzong, and Diancie, also pair well with Gastrodon, either boasting a Steel typing or being a secondary Nidoking check that relieves pressure off of Gastrodon. Tentacruel, Empoleon, and Rotom-Mow synergize well with Gastrodon, as they provide hazard removal; in return, Gastrodon can pivot into Nidoking and multiple Electric-types. In a similar vein, Poison-types like Amoonguss minimize the chip damage that can eat away at Gastrodon by removing Toxic Spikes. Choice Scarf Infernape pressures Grass-types and also appreciates Gastrodon's Water immunity. Choice Scarf Hydreigon values Gastrodon reliably checking Substitute variations of Gengar and absorbing Water-type attacks. Heal Bell users such as Mega Altaria and the aforementioned Togekiss and Diancie replenish Gastrodon by removing Toxic. Rotom-Heat can benefit from Gastrodon's Storm Drain so it can pressure bulky Water-types more reliably. Gastrodon also appreciates Rotom-Heat's defensive typing to check some physical wallbreakers like Scizor.

Earth Power provides an accurate STAB attack that allows Gastrodon to threaten Pokemon such as Tapu Koko, Incineroar, and Heatran. Ice Beam hits many Pokemon for super effective damage, such as Mega Salamence, Landorus, and Zapdos, and has strong neutral coverage alongside Earth Power. The option of Clear Smog allows Gastrodon to win the one-on-one versus Calm Mind Tapu Fini and allows it to clear away any threatening boosts on opposing Pokemon. This makes Gastrodon less susceptible to becoming setup bait. Recover can give reliable recovery outside of the Wiki Berry to allow Gastrodon to be a nuisance throughout the game. Scald provides another spammable STAB move that has a decent 30% chance to burn, though the other two moves in the set give the necessary coverage to not usually need it. Protect grants Gastrodon the ability to allow its partners to deal with its checks while keeping itself safe. Wiki Berry improves Gastrodon's longevity and grants it a form of recovery should it not run Recover. The EVs on this set guarantee an OHKO on 4 HP / 0 SpD Mega Salamence with Ice Beam and prevents Gastrodon from being 2HKOed by a 252 Atk Adamant Landorus-T Earthquake, a 252 SpA Modest Aegislash-Blade Shadow Ball and a 252 SpA Mega Gengar Shadow Ball 26 Speed IVs allow Gastrodon to underspeed Aegislash by one point to OHKO with Earth Power. Gastrodon can run a Quiet nature with 0 Speed IVs to be more threatening on Trick Room teams or against them. Gastrodon should be switched in on moves it resists or is immune to, especially predicted Water-type moves to use its Water deterring abilities to the fullest. Gastrodon can be kept on the field alongside Pokemon weak to Water-types attacks in order to discourage Water-type attackers from using attacks that could hit its teammate. Gastrodon enjoys Pokemon such as Incineroar and Landorus-T as teammates, as they can weaken physical threats with Intimidate and appreciate Gastrodon's ability to deter Water-types. Gastrodon is often run with Pokemon such as Mega Metagross and Tapu Lele, as both enjoy a rain check, a way to remove Steel-types like Heatran and Mega Metagross lacking Zen Headbutt, and Gastrodon checking metagame threats like Incineroar and Landorus-T. Gastrodon also appreciates Pokemon such as Incineroar, Charizard, and Zapdos with Heat Wave that can threaten Grass-types.

Moves Scald is Gastrodon's main Water-type STAB move and also has a chance to burn the foe, allowing it to take on physical attackers like Bisharp. Earth Power also hits Pokemon that are immune or resistant to Water-type attacks such as Seismitoad and Toxapex. Recover allows Gastrodon to stay healthy through the entire match, allowing it to consistently take on foes throughout a battle. Toxic cripples opposing walls such as Porygon2 and setup sweepers such as Kommo-o by putting them on a timer. Set Details The HP and Special Defense investment alongside a Calm nature allows Gastrodon to act as a mixed wall, avoiding the 2HKO from Mega Diancie's Moonblast and Life Orb Kyurem-B's Ice Beam, both after Stealth Rock damage. Leftovers gives Gastrodon residual recovery at the end of each turn, allowing it to switch into hazards more easily. Sticky Hold prevents it from being Tricked by Choice-locked Pokemon like Latios and Victini and prevents Knock Off users such as Mega Sableye from removing Gastrodon's Leftovers. Gastrodon can use Storm Drain to help against threats such as Perish trap Azumarill, which threatens balanced Water-type teams. However, running Storm Drain means that Gastrodon will not be able to run Sticky Hold, leaving the team very weak to Trick users such as Latios. Usage Tips Since Gastrodon is used on bulkier Water teams that usually lack switch-ins to Trick users like Latios, it should fill this role thanks to Sticky Hold, which prevents it from losing its Leftovers. Gastrodon should be kept as healthy as possible throughout the match so it can easily be switched into strong attacks like Mega Diancie's Moonblast. Gastrodon should especially be kept healthy in matchups like Electric so it can repeatedly switch in on and threaten Pokemon like Alolan Raichu with Earth Power. Gastrodon should avoid being statused with Toxic, as it severely reduces Gastrodon's ability to stay healthy through the match, making it easier to revenge kill. Use Toxic on walls such as Mantine or on Pokemon it cannot threaten with its other attacks such as Zapdos to make it easier for teammates such as Mega Sharpedo to clean late-game. Recover can be used alongside Toxic to put opposing Pokemon on a timer and easily recover off damage. Gastrodon should try to cripple physical attackers such as Bisharp with Scald burns, allowing teammates like Toxapex to more easily take them on. Gastrodon should always scout for Grass-type coverage by switching out on Pokemon like Volcanion. If Gastrodon is using Storm Drain, it should always be used as a switch-in to Perish trap Azumarill, as Storm Drain prevents Azumarill from trapping it with Whirlpool and putting it on a three-turn timer with Perish Song. Team Options Toxapex can check setup sweepers such as Kommo-o and Mega Altaria with Haze, set Toxic Spikes to cripple foes, and scout attacks with Baneful Bunker, all while switching into Grass-type attacks such as Ferrothorn's Power Whip. Toxapex can also switch into Toxic and remove Toxic Spikes for Gastrodon. Azumarill provides a Grass-type immunity with access to Sap Sipper and can Perish trap foes like Breloom for Gastrodon, and Gastrodon can switch into Electric-type attacks for Azumarill. Together, they form an immunity core that covers both of Water-types' weaknesses. Mantine appreciates Gastrodon's immunity to Electric-type attacks and can use Haze against setup sweepers like Azumarill and Kommo-o for Gastrodon. Mantine also provides a Ground-type immunity, allowing it to take on Pokemon like Landorus and Excadrill, which Gastrodon and its teammates struggle with, and can clear annoying entry hazards such as Toxic Spikes for Gastrodon to prevent it from being poisoned. Empoleon can support Gastrodon as a bulky teammate neutral to Grass and provide effective hazard control, setting Stealth Rock and clearing hazards with Defog. Suicune also appreciates Gastrodon's ability to switch into Trick. Suicune in turn can stall out Grass-types like Mega Venusaur and Ferrothorn with Substitute + Protect. Greninja appreciates that Gastrodon can switch into powerful threats such as Tapu Koko and Mega Diancie for it and can in turn revenge kill Grass-types like Tapu Bulu with Gunk Shot and Ice Beam. Greninja also appreciates Gastrodon's ability to Toxic stall many of its checks down like Porygon2 so it can sweep more easily late-game. Powerful wallbreakers such as Keldeo and Mega Sharpedo similarly appreciate Gastrodon's ability to wear down their checks with Toxic. The former then can break through some of Gastrodon's checks such as Ferrothorn, while the latter can easily sweep late-game and check Taunt users such as Mew and Gliscor for Gastrodon. Gyarados appreciates Gastrodon's ability to Toxic poison Pokemon that might give Gyarados trouble such as Rotom-Wash and in return can take on Grass-types like Tapu Bulu and Mega Venusaur for Gastrodon with Dragon Dance and Supersonic Skystrike. Mega Slowbro and Gastrodon form an amazing defensive core able to handle most wallbreaking cores, including the fearsome Ground-type core of Landorus and Excadrill.

Moves Scald is used as Gastrodon's main STAB move, as it can burn opposing Pokemon and enable Gastrodon to wall powerful physical wallbreakers like Dragonite and Mega Gallade. Earth Power is Gastrodon's secondary STAB move and synergizes well with Storm Drain, letting it always 2HKO Toxapex after a boost. Recover is Gastrodon's form of reliable recovery, which lets it act as an efficient wall. Toxic is used to cripple most defensive Pokemon like Rotom-Wash and Porygon2 that are not bothered by Gastrodon's STAB moves. Set Details Storm Drain gives Gastrodon an immunity to Water-type moves and is the main reason why it's considered as a valuable teammate for Ground. It also has the side effect of raising Gastrodon's Special Attack stat when hit by a Water-type move, making both Scald and Earth Power hit slightly harder. Maximum HP and Defense investment with a Bold nature makes Gastrodon as physically bulky as possible and enables it to never be 2HKOed by Choice Specs Keldeo. Leftovers gives Gastrodon passive recovery throughout the match and is also needed to beat Choice Specs Keldeo. Usage Tips Gastrodon is best used when switched in on predicted Water-type moves coming from potent threats like Choice Specs Keldeo, especially if no other viable moves from those Pokemon can seriously harm it. Since Gastrodon is the team's Water-immune Pokemon, it should not be sacrificed, because that would enable threatening Water-types to greatly damage and KO most of its teammates with their STAB moves. Gastrodon also has the luxury of switching into would-be threats for Ground teams, such as Rotom-Wash and Tapu Koko, without much repercussion. However, watch out for lures that could cripple or OHKO Gastrodon, such as Toxic Rotom-Wash and Grass Knot Tapu Koko. Scald can be used freely to burn, cripple, and wear down physical attackers as they switch into Gastrodon or try to overpower it. Burning defensive Pokemon that don't care about Toxic, such as Mega Sableye and Celesteela, to slowly whittle them down is also a good idea. Use Toxic to cripple defensive Pokemon like Zapdos and Mantine on the switch or to put setup sweepers like Kommo-o and Mega Slowbro on a timer. Against hard matchups, specifically Water, spreading Toxic early-game can also greatly help to give Ground the advantage. Also, when facing Pokemon that are unable to 2HKO or poison Gastrodon, it is advised to Toxic these foes and stall them out with Recover so that Gastrodon has as much HP as possible to check the remaining threats. Try to keep Gastrodon healthy by using Recover so that it can take, if possible, two hits from opposing threats. If this condition is met, Scald or Toxic can be used depending on the remaining Pokemon on the opposing team. However, since it drains momentum from its own team, Gastrodon should be played carefully and make good use of double switches by sponging a Water-type move or a weak attack before switching out to a more favorable teammate if threatening foes like Kyurem-B and Celebi are still alive. Moreover, as Gastrodon possesses very little offensive presence, stallbreakers like Mew and Hydreigon greatly threaten it with Taunt. To play around them, try to double switch as they come in or switch out to a more appropriate teammate on a predicted Taunt to gain momentum, since Gastrodon has no way of dealing with those Pokemon by itself. Finally, like most defensive Pokemon, Gastrodon's stalling capabilities become greatly limited when it's hit by Toxic. Therefore, it's better to avoid opposing status users unless they can't be dealt with another way, such as Porygon2, than by using Toxic against them. Team Options Every Ground team appreciates having a teammate such as Gastrodon that can switch into Water-type moves. Hippowdon and Gastrodon form a nice defensive core, as the former walls strong physical attackers like Mega Lopunny and phazes setup sweepers like Mega Scizor, while the latter can switch into Greninja's and Keldeo's moves with ease. Mega Garchomp is a remarkable teammate, as it's the most viable Ground-type (aside from Seismitoad) that outspeeds Azumarill and survives its +6 Aqua Jet after Stealth Rock damage. It can also help Gastrodon deal with Ferrothorn and other Grass-types with its Fire-type coverage moves. Excadrill is a much-needed spinner on Ground teams to get rid of entry hazards, especially Toxic Spikes, which seriously hinder Gastrodon's longevity and ability to wall certain threats. Excadrill can also clean through weakened teams more easily if paired with Gastrodon thanks to its ability to cripple its switch-ins with Toxic. Additionally, Excadrill can take on most relevant Grass-types for Gastrodon, since they take serious amounts of damage or are OHKOed by its STAB moves. Landorus is a useful and powerful wallbreaker that helps Gastrodon take care of Steel- and Grass-types such as Celesteela (with Gravity support) and Mega Venusaur. Mamoswine is an alternative wallbreaker that eases the Grass and Flying matchups with its Ice STAB moves, being able to pick off weakened Tapu Bulu and Breloom with Ice Shard and take out other threats, namely Zapdos and Ferrothorn, with Icicle Crash and Superpower. Mamoswine also has the added benefit of bringing a secondary Ice-type switch-in thanks to its ability Thick Fat. Mega Steelix is a more niche teammate that performs incredibly well in certain matchups, namely Fairy and Dragon, that Gastrodon greatly struggles against. Gliscor can also from a defensive core with Gastrodon thanks to its Grass-type neutrality and ability to efficiently stallbreak. In fact, Gliscor can shut down many of Gastrodon's defensive answers, such as Celesteela and Mega Veusaur, with Taunt before slowly wearing them down with Earthquake or Knock Off, and, thanks to Poison Heal, can switch into opposing Toxics aimed at Gastrodon. In return, Gastrodon can switch into Ice- and Water-type moves aimed at Gliscor. Dugtrio is a nice teammate that traps and helps Gastrodon dispose of numerous foes like Chansey, Kyurem-B, and Tapu Bulu.

Moves Earth Power is the STAB move of choice thanks to its decent power and neutral coverage. It has an advantage over Water-type STAB moves as it prevents Gastrodon from being walled by opposing Gastrodon. Ice Beam hits targets that evade or shrug off Earth Power; namely, Flying-types like Landorus-T and Mega Salamence as well as Grass-types like Amoonguss and Tapu Bulu. Icy Wind, on the other hand, is weaker than Ice Beam but provides the team with speed control. Recover increases Gastrodon's longevity, allowing it to do its job for a longer amount of time. Protect helps scout opposing moves and survive a strong attack or a double target. Toxic is an option over Protect that allows Gastrodon to cripple bulky Pokemon like Porygon2, opposing Gastrodon, and Cresselia. Set Details Wiki Berry heals Gastrodon for half of its maximum HP when it's severely weakened. Groundium Z reduces Gastrodon's passivity at the cost of Berry recovery by providing it with a strong one-time nuke. Using Groundium Z also makes it even easier to switch in on Incineroar, which cannot punish such sets with Knock Off. Storm Drain is necessary for redirecting opposing Water-type moves and potentially increasing Gastrodon's Special Attack, making it less passive. 236 EVs in HP, 152 EVs in Defense, 84 EVs in Special Defense, and a Relaxed nature ensure that Gastrodon will survive Landorus-T's Tectonic Rage and two standard Life Orb Kyurem-B's Ice Beams. The leftover EVs are dumped in Special Attack. Minimized Speed is used to have a better matchup against Trick Room. If using Groundium Z, Gastrodon can move 20 EVs from Defense to Special Attack and run a Quiet nature to OHKO standard Incineroar with Tectonic Rage while still surviving two Choice Band Zygarde's Thousand Arrows. Usage Tips You can switch Gastrodon in on a predicted Water-type attack to possibly get a Special Attack boost. Be careful if there is a Grass-type like Tapu Bulu or Kartana or just a strong Pokemon like Tapu Lele or Dragon Dance Zygarde on the field, however. Keeping Gastrodon on the field alongside Pokemon weak to Water-type attacks like Incineroar and Diancie is a smart idea too, but note that Storm Drain redirects only single-target attacks, so Gastrodon's teammate still will be vulnerable to spread moves like Muddy Water. Use Recover proactively to keep Gastrodon out of the range of attacks like Life Orb Kyurem-B's Ice Beam and Tapu Lele's Psychic. Avoid status, namely Toxic, and carefully play around possible Toxic users like Porygon2 and Chansey. Team Options Pokemon weak to Water-type attacks like Victini and Diancie enjoy Water-type moves being redirected by Gastrodon. Fire-types like Incineroar, Volcarona, and the aforementioned Victini are especially notable teammates, as they appreciate Gastrodon's Storm Drain and threaten Grass-types in return. Gastrodon handles Electric-types like Tapu Koko and Mega Manectric well, so Pokemon that have trouble dealing with them like Mega Salamence and Zapdos enjoy having Gastrodon as a teammate. In return, they can beat Grass-types like Kartana, Tapu Bulu, and Amoonguss. Thanks to its low Speed, Gastrodon can even find a place on some Trick Room teams. It synergizes well with attackers like Diancie and Mega Camerupt because they are able to either lure Water-type moves for Gastrodon or deal with Grass-types.

Moves Curse boosts Gastrodon's Attack and Defense, allowing it to become a threatening setup sweeper. Curse is used over Toxic to allow Gastrodon to act as a bulky wincon that is capable of handling threats such as Calm Mind Slowbro and Suicune, as well as preventing Clefable from coming in freely. Scald is used over Waterfall, as the ability to burn specific checks, such as Ferrothorn, Mega Venusaur, and Mega Scizor, further improves Gastrodon's chances of sweeping. Waterfall is a viable option should your team struggle with Gliscor or Nasty Plot Thundurus. Recover heals off damage that Gastrodon has taken throughout the battle. Set Details The given EV spread allows Gastrodon to switch into Life Orb Alakazam, Mega Diancie, and Life Orb Thundurus without Grass Knot or Nasty Plot, while the rest of the EVs are placed into Defense to help Gastrodon shrug off physical attacks more easily. An alternative EV spread of 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD with a Relaxed nature is a viable option should your team struggle with Keldeo, as this spread has a good chance to avoid the 2HKO from a boosted Keldeo's Secret Sword after Stealth Rock. This EV spread, however, makes Gastrodon a poor switch-in to powerful special attackers such as Alakazam and Mega Diancie. Storm Drain gives Gastrodon an immunity to Water-type attacks, notably Scald. Leftovers is the item of choice, as this gives Gastrodon passive recovery. Usage Tips Using Scald early and often is a good strategy should Gastrodon be at a good health. Burning potential threats and switch-ins not only eases Gastrodon's time sweeping later in the game but also helps it wear down the opposing team. If the opponent has a Grass-type with Natural Cure or Regenerator, Scald might not be your best bet, as the foe can shrug off a burn and force Gastrodon out. Keep Gastrodon at a high health whenever possible to allow it to continuously switch into opposing Pokemon. If the opponent doesn't have a Pokemon that requires Gastrodon to set upto beat, such as Clefable or Suicune, then it might be wise to wait and reveal Curse later in the game when the opponent might not expect it. Be careful not to let Gastrodon get statused, as this not only eliminates Gastrodon's chances of sweeping but also prevents it from checking a lot of Pokemon it could otherwise. Team Options Fire- and Flying-types, such as Heatran, Talonflame, Tornadus-T, Skarmory, and both Mega Charizard formes, are viable options alongside Gastrodon, as they are capable of reliably switching into Grass-types that can scare Gastrodon out. Latios can switch into some Grass-types, such as Mega Venusaur, and check Keldeo, which will allow Gastrodon to run its usual EV spread over one to check Keldeo. Fairy- and Steel-types such as Clefable, Mega Altaria, Heatran, Ferrothorn, and Mega Scizor are good options, as Recover Latios is a problem no matter what Gastrodon's EV spread is. Clerics and status absorbers, such as Clefable and Mega Altaria, can absorb status ailments that would otherwise cripple Gastrodon. Mega Sableye is another good teammate, as it can neutralize Ferrothorn and reliably switch into it. Mega Sableye also struggles against Pokemon such as Keldeo and Mega Diancie, both of which Gastrodon can handle depending on its EV spread.

Moves Scald can cripple potential switch-ins and limits physical attackers with burns. Earthquake is preferred over Earth Power because it deals more damage to Calm Mind Keldeo, Mega Alakazam, and Heatran, but Earth Power can also be nice, as Gastrodon tends to take burns from Rotom-W. Recover is necessary, as it allows Gastrodon to keep itself healthy throughout the match. Clear Smog prevents setup from Pokemon like Calm Mind Clefable, Calm Mind Slowbro, and Nasty Plot Thundurus. Toxic can be used over Clear Smog to help reduce Gastrodon's passivity, punishing switch-ins like Serperior and Manaphy more consistently. Set Details Maximum Special Defense investment allows Gastrodon to take on special threats like Heatran, Thundurus, Mega Alakazam, and Mega Diancie, and a Sassy nature is used in order to not weaken Earthquake. Storm Drain grants it a useful immunity to Scald as well as other Water-type moves. Alternatively, an EV spread of 248 HP / 48 Def / 212 SpD allows Gastrodon to always survive +1 Dragon Claw from Adamant Mega Charizard X and two Secret Swords from non-Choice Specs Keldeo after Stealth Rock damage. Usage Tips By virtue of its great typing and solid bulk, Gastrodon acts as a great check to special attackers like Heatran, Mega Diancie, and Volcanion. Gastrodon is best used making use of its immunity to Volt Switch, switching into Pokemon like Zapdos and Magnezone with little risk and being able to completely shut down Rotom-W with Storm Drain. Gastrodon relies on its immunities and pivoting in order to use to its full potential due to its good but not amazing bulk. Gastrodon does struggle with a few things, namely Toxic, Grass-types like Serperior and Amoonguss, special moves that hit defense—namely Secret Sword and Psyshock—and physical threats. Make sure to scout Toxic and Grass-type moves from the likes of Heatran, Volcarona, Zapdos, and Volcanion. Another flaw Gastrodon has is its passivity issue, which creates openings for the likes of Gliscor and Clefable to take advantage of it and potentially overwhelm it. Team Options Good teammates for Gastrodon include Pokemon that can switch into Grass-type attacks comfortably, like Heatran, Tornadus-T, and Talonflame. Pokemon immune to Toxic, like Gliscor, Clefable, Chansey, and Steel-types, are also helpful. Skarmory is a great example of a synergistic teammate to Gastrodon, as it is immune to poison and can take on Grass-type attacks. Its high Defense is also complementary to Gastrodon's specially defensive set.

Moves Scald is a Water-type STAB move that has a high chance to burn, which is good for crippling physical threats. Earthquake is a Ground-type STAB move that hits Pokemon such as Mega Charizard X and Keldeo for good damage; it is preferred over Earth Power because it doesn't have to worry about being unable to break Keldeo's Calm Mind-enhanced Substitutes. Ice Beam is an alternative that hits Garchomp and Dragonite decently hard. Toxic is ideal for a wall such as Gastrodon, as it slowly wears at the opponent's Pokemon. Recover is reliable recovery, and it helps rack up Toxic damage. Counter is an option to prevent Gastrodon from being overwhelmed easily by physical attackers, as it can usually tank at least one hit and proceed to net a surprise KO with Counter. Set Details 252 HP EVs max out Gastrodon's HP, adding to its bulk, while 252 Defense EVs with a Relaxed nature max out its Defense to handle threats such as Keldeo. Storm Drain gives an immunity to Water-type attacks, with a situational boost to Special Attack. Leftovers provides passive recovery. A Relaxed nature should be run if Earthquake is used. Usage Tips Gastrodon best functions as a physical wall that stays in to burn physical attackers or stall with Toxic to cripple foes. While Gastrodon is still healthy, use Scald early-game to possibly get a burn on its checks. Recover is best used to rack up Toxic damage on opposing Pokemon and should be used to ensure it stays healthy. Gastrodon can switch into a predicted Water-type attack and get a free Special Attack boost, which guarantees Ice Beam OHKOes Garchomp. Gastrodon can also take hits from most physical attackers, so stay in on a physical attack and either attempt to burn the physical attacker with Scald or cripple it with Toxic. However, be wary when facing hard hitting attackers such as Choice Band Azumarill, as Play Rough 2HKOes. Team Options With Sludge Bomb, Mega Venusaur can counter opposing Grass-types, such as Breloom and Serpeior, both of which threaten Gastrodon. Ferrothorn also performs well this role, and makes up for not being able to counter Breloom with being able to set up entry hazards. Heatran can take on most special attackers that can break through Gastrodon, while Gastrodon can switch in Water- and Ground-types such as Keldeo and Hippowdon. Talonflame appreciates Gastrodon's ability to switch in Electric- and Water-types, most notably Rotom-W, while Talonflame breaks past answers to Gastrodon such as Mega Venusaur, Amoonguss, Ferrothorn, and Serperior. Chansey and Clefable work well with Gastrodon, as both take on special attackers such as Latios and Mega Diancie with ease and can absorb status effects thanks to Natural Cure and Magic Guard, respectively. Skarmory has good defensive synergy with Gastrodon, as Gastrodon takes both Electric- and Fire-type attacks for Skarmory, while Skarmory takes Grass-type attacks directed at Gastrodon, as well as being able to set up hazards.

Moves Scald is the STAB move of choice, and its high chance to burn allows Gastrodon to handle many physical attackers. Recover lets Gastrodon heal the HP lost from entry hazards or status such as poison or burn and improves its longevity. The third move is a toss up. Toxic is the preferred choice, putting a timer on deadly walls and sweepers. Clear Smog allows Gastrodon to check many setup sweepers in the tier such as Calm Mind Delphox, Swords Dance Drapion, and Nasty Plot Cofagrigus. Ice Beam, however, lets Gastrodon hit Grass-types such as Rotom-C and Virizion super effectively. Earth Power is the secondary STAB move of choice, as its power can be boosted thanks to Storm Drain. Set Details The given EV spread with a Bold nature aims to maximize Gastrodon's physical bulk, allowing it to take on the majority of physical attackers in the tier, as well as allowing it to outspeed minimum Speed Rhyperior so it can KO with Scald or Recover before it attacks. Leftovers gives Gastrodon passive recovery and can help it stall out poisoned or burned foes. Usage Tips Do not stay in Grass-types, because they will usually OHKO Gastrodon. Try not to get Gastrodon inflicted with status, such as poison and burn, as it has no way of curing it. Predict well, as Gastrodon is extremely slow, and it will usually move last. In addition, switch into Water-type moves to get the Storm Drain boost. Use Toxic often to cripple opponents. Likewise, use Scald often to cripple the physical attackers in the tier. Also switch into Pokemon that Gastrodon can check or counter such as Magneton, Drapion, and Jolteon lacking Hidden Power Grass. Bear in mind that Gastrodon is somewhat weak and will be dealing only decent damage at best. Team Options Gastrodon fits easily onto stall and defensive teams, and because of this, bulky Grass-types such as defensive Venusaur and Roselia make excellent partners, taking the Grass-types aimed at Gastrodon. In return, Gastrodon can switch in on the Fire-type moves directed at them. Since Gastrodon is uninvested in Special Defense, specially defensive Pokemon such as Aromatisse and Mega Audino make excellent partners. Both of them can Wish pass, and they can also remove status that troubles Gastrodon with Aromatherapy and Heal Bell, respectively.

Moves Curse increases Gastrodon's offensive and defensive capabilities while only decreasing its already awful Speed. Recover boosts Gastrodon's longevity, allowing it to switch into powerful threats throughout a match and still survive for a potential late-game sweep. Earthquake is its most powerful STAB attack and deals massive damage once boosted; however, Gastrodon only has a mediocre base 83 Attack stat, so its damage output before boosting will be far from threatening. Scald prevents Gastrodon from being utterly useless before setting up and lends it some potential anti-offense utility by spreading burns. Ice Beam can be used in the last slot to hit Ground-immune Dragon-types or Celebi, although Scald is largely the more reliable and useful move. Set Details The given EVs and a Sassy nature provide Gastrodon with enough bulk to sponge hits from the tier's most threatening special attackers while maintaining sufficient physical bulk to avoid 2HKOs from the likes of Cobalion. The primary benchmark this spread meets is avoiding a 2HKO from Nidoqueen's Earth Power after Stealth Rock damage. 252 HP / 96 Def / 160 SpD is another viable spread that makes Gastrodon an even better answer to Nidoqueen, Mega Blastoise, and other powerful special attackers, although it leaves Gastrodon susceptible to 2HKOs from even relatively weak physical attackers such as Crobat and the aforementioned Cobalion. Leftovers gives Gastrodon passive recovery, which lets it heal even more HP in conjunction with Recover. Storm Drain is a large part of Gastrodon's niche, as it grants an extremely useful immunity to Water-type moves while boosting its Special Attack when hit by one. Usage Tips Gastrodon sets up Curse on quite a few of the tier's special attackers and Water-types, especially Suicune and Gyarados, the latter of which it can stall out of Bounce PP barring any critical hits. However, Gastrodon is extremely weak before setting up and therefore cannot reliably be expected to check even physically frail threats that it hits super effectively with Earthquake, such as Lucario, which it has a low chance to OHKO. While its special bulk is nothing to scoff at, Gastrodon's pales in comparison to Snorlax's, so it is more vulnerable to being worn down by extremely powerful special attackers, especially if it's been Taunted. While Gastrodon's typing and ability allow it to switch into many attackers freely, be sure to keep it healthy, or it will struggle to check strong threats. Be especially wary of Toxic and Will-O-Wisp users, as they seriously cripple Gastrodon and make it much less threatening defensively. Should you intend to sweep with Gastrodon, it must be put off until it is late in the game and all the opposing team's Grass-types and especially powerful special attackers have been removed, as the former will always force it out and the latter are extremely effective revenge killers regardless of how many Curse boosts Gastrodon has managed to get off. Team Options Gastrodon's greatest weakness is to Grass-types, so Pokemon that can repeatedly counter them, such as Mandibuzz, Arcanine and Escavalier, make for marvelous teammates. Entei is another option capable of pressuring Grass-types offensively and punishing switch-ins. Cleric support is vital, as Gastrodon is crippled by burns from Sacred Fire and Will-O-Wisp and devastated by Toxic; this makes Florges, which is also capable of switching into one of Gastrodon's greatest threats in Taunt Hydreigon as well as many of the tier's Grass-types, perhaps the single best partner for it. Toxic Spikes can wear down Gastrodon's checks without Gastrodon having to directly damage them, leaving it more free to set up and recover HP as needed; Roserade in particular has the best defensive synergy with Gastrodon. It is extremely important to pair Gastrodon with some form of entry hazard removal, since Toxic Spikes can and will wear it down, preventing it from checking the threats it should. Forretress is capable of countering most of the tier's Grass-types and removing only the opponent's hazards with Rapid Spin, but Crobat in particular has phenomenal defensive synergy with Gastrodon as well as access to Defog and Roost, which increases its longevity so that it can switch into Grass-types throughout a match.

Scald allows Gastrodon to fish for burns to inhibit physical attackers like Weavile and Mega Lopunny. Earth Power targets Steel- and Electric-types like Bisharp and Heliolisk and punishes Flying-types like Skarmory and Zapdos for attempting to recover HP with Roost. Gastrodon prefers Earth Power, since it can take advantage of Special Attack boosts from Storm Drain, but Earthquake can break though Calm Mind-enhanced Substitutes and deal more damage to specially defensive walls like Tentacruel and Empoleon. Toxic cripples opposing walls that aren't bothered as much by Scald burns like Porygon2 and Zapdos. Gastrodon's immunity to Water gives Ground teams a chance against fast Water-types such as Swift Swim Kingdra. Mega Garchomp's access to Stone Edge and Fire Blast allows it to deal with Mega Scizor, Flying-types like Mega Charizard Y and Gyarados, and Grass-types such as Ferrothorn and Breloom. Excadrill in sand can take out offensive threats like Choice Specs Latios, Deoxys-S, and Celebi. Hippowdon can switch into physical attackers like Terrakion and Excadrill, phaze setup sweepers such as Mega Scizor and Mega Gallade, and passively damage foes by setting sand and Stealth Rock. Mamoswine revenge kills weakened threats with Ice Shard and checks physical attackers like Mega Garchomp and Dragonite. Landorus uses its powerful special attacks and Knock Off to take care of stallbreakers like Mew and Sableye. Nidoking can check Grass-types such as Breloom and Ferrothorn with Flamethrower. It may also set Toxic Spikes, allowing Gastrodon to stall out some of its usual answers like Expert Belt Heliolisk.

Moves Scald is Gastrodon's most reliable Water-type STAB move, hitting Fire-types like Talonflame, Volcarona, and Rotom-H. Not only does Scald provide decent power in a STAB attack, its 30% chance to burn can be a big help when facing physical attackers such as Mega Kangaskhan. Earth Power is Gastrodon's second STAB move, and it hits Rock-types like Mega Diancie, Steel-types like Heatran and Aegislash, and the Water-immune Fire-type Volcanion. Ice Beam provides great coverage on Grass-types such as Amoonguss and Dragon-types such as Latios and Hydreigon, which would otherwise wall Gastrodon, as well as Flying-types like Landorus and Thundurus. Recover allows Gastrodon to restore its health and stay on the field longer than other Pokemon typically would, which can be vital in late-game situations or when taking opportunities of free turns. Alternatively, Protect allows Gastrodon to avoid damage entirely for the turn while its partner handles a threat and scout out an opposing moveset. Set Details 232 HP and 176 Defense EVs let Gastrodon take two Brave Birds from Adamant Life Orb Talonflame, which means Gastrodon can switch in on and defeat it one-on-one. The 52 Special Defense EVs, paired with the given HP EVs, give Gastrodon the ability to survive a Psycho Boost from Deoxys-A. The remaining 48 EVs go into Special Attack to allow Gastrodon to OHKO Salamence and Landorus-T with Ice Beam. A Quiet nature allows Gastrodon to be slower than Aegislash and OHKO it with Earth Power while it is in its Blade forme. This will also allow Gastrodon to outspeed opposing Pokemon on Trick Room teams. Sitrus Berry provides instant recovery of 25% of Gastrodon's health, which helps against double targets and against Mega Kangaskhan due to Parental Bond. Expert Belt allows Gastrodon to do more damage against targets that are hit super effectively, which works well in conjunction with its expansive movepool, and pick up notable OHKOs against foes such as Mega Diancie with Earth Power. Usage Tips Gastrodon's ability redirects all Water-type attacks to itself, so it is a great check to rain teams and helps Water weak teammates avoid taking damage, which can put foes in tough spots. Gastrodon shines by redirecting Water-type attacks and gaining Special Attack boosts, so luring a Water-type attack from your opponent with a Pokemon weak to Water and then switching in Gastrodon is a prime way to use this Pokemon. Gastrodon's bulk and typing give it the opportunity to switch in on many common Pokemon, such as Thundurus, Heatran, and Volcanion, as it will take very little damage from their attacks, and threaten them in return. Recover is great to take advantage of turns where the opponent may double Protect, not target Gastrodon, or use a stat-dropping move, such as Draco Meteor or Superpower. Keep in mind that if Gastrodon's partner uses a non-spread Water-type move, Gastrodon will redirect it too! Team Options Gastrodon's biggest threat is any Grass-type Pokemon or move. Great Pokemon to pair with Gastrodon to threaten Grass-types like Amoonguss or Breloom are Fire-types like Heatran or Blaziken, a Flying-type like Talonflame, or an Ice-type like Kyurem-B. Putting Safety Goggles on Heatran makes it an even better Gastrodon partner, since this allows Heatran to switch into Spores from Amoonguss and Breloom. Even with all of the EVs invested into its physical bulk, Gastrodon could still use help in that area, especially due to the ever-present Mega Kangaskhan. An Intimidate Pokemon, such as Landorus-T or Scrafty, can be a big help. Gastrodon can also use Recover more often if it is taking less damage from physical attackers. Gastrodon is a great partner for Pokemon weak to Water-type attacks, such as Mega Diancie, Landorus-T, and Talonflame. This is also important on the offensive end — if Gastrodon's teammates aren't going to lure Water-type attacks, Gastrodon can't get Storm Drain boosts. Gastrodon handles Electric-types extremely well, so Pokemon that benefit from this, such as Talonflame and Gyarados, fit well with it.

Moves Earth Power is Gastrodon's most powerful STAB move. Ice Beam grants excellent super effective coverage and complements Earth Power well, as together, they hit almost every Pokemon at least neutrally. Scald provides a secondary STAB option and has a good chance to burn foes. Recover can be used either in place of or alongside Protect and increases Gastrodon's longevity. Protect shields Gastrodon, granting its partner a turn to react to the foes. Set Details Sitrus Berry is used to further increase Gastrodon's longevity and prevent a number of 2HKOs, such as from Terrakion's Close Combat. However, due to Item Clause, Leftovers is a good alternative if Sitrus Berry is held by another teammate, as Gastrodon's bulk grants it sufficient opportunities to rack up recovery. A Modest nature is chosen because it boosts Gastrodon's Special Attack, maximizing its damage output. Using a Quiet nature and 0 Speed IVs is an alternative that can help Gastrodon either function on or counter Trick Room teams, as its Speed is already very low. The given HP and Defense EVs prevent Gastrodon from being OHKOed by Adamant Mega Salamence's Double-Edge, the Special Attack EVs allow Gastrodon to OHKO 4 HP Mega Salamence with Ice Beam, and the remaining EVs are placed into Special Defense for added bulk. 27 Speed IVs are used to underspeed minimum Speed Aegislash and OHKO it after it has changed to Blade forme. Usage Tips Unlike more offensive variants, this Gastrodon can defend teammates with Storm Drain for extended periods. When not defending a teammate, however, unless aiming for a Scald burn, avoid staying in to use weak neutral attacks, as Gastrodon's damage output is fairly underwhelming. In fact, barring an excessive number of boosts, don't be overly concerned about losing boosts gained from Storm Drain if Gastrodon needs to switch out, as its damage output isn't too impressive regardless. Without Recover, Gastrodon is generally best kept in the back, ready to switch into predicted Water-type moves, and when using Recover, Gastrodon can work as a late-game wincon thanks to its bulk and lack of weaknesses. Team Options Gastrodon's Storm Drain protects Fire-types such as Heatran, Talonflame, and Blaziken from Water-type moves, and they can threaten the Grass-types that hit Gastrodon super effectively. In return, Gastrodon can KO Rock- and Ground-types that threaten Fire-types with its super effective STAB moves. Rock-types such as Tyranitar, Terrakion, and Aerodactyl are also protected from Water-type moves, and Gastrodon can also deal with Ground-types that threaten them. Ground-types such as Landorus-T, Excadrill, and Mega Camerupt, despite sharing a typing with Gastrodon, equally appreciate the protection from Water-type moves. Mega Camerupt is particularly notable, as it's 4x weak to Water. Physical attackers such as Mega Kangaskhan, Mega Salamence, and Mega Mawile appreciate being defended against Scald burns, and Gastrodon can also use Ice Beam against common Intimidate users such as Landorus-T and Salamence. Psychic-type Trick Room setters such as Cresselia, Gardevoir, and Gothitelle can set up the field condition for Gastrodon on Trick Room teams, and they can often threaten opposing Grass-types, as many of them have a secondary Poison typing.

Moves Earth Power is Gastrodon's best Ground-type STAB move and is able to do plenty of damage to common Steel-, Fire-, and Rock-type Pokemon. Scald deals good damage and potentially inflicts burns, which can vastly improve Gastrodon's chances against popular physical attackers. Ice Beam rounds out Gastrodon's coverage by allowing it to deal heavy damage to Flying-types that would not be harmed by its other moves. Protect prevents Gastrodon from taking damage that turn. This alleviates any concern of getting double targeted or being taken out by a surprise Grass move. Muddy Water is a decent spread move that allows Gastrodon to potentially lower both targets' accuracy, but the accuracy of the move itself makes it a bit ill-advised. Recover can improve Gastrodon's longevity, but cuts down on its coverage. Set Details The given EV spread allows Gastrodon to survive a Double-Edge from Jolly Mega Kangaskhan and Jolly Mega Salamence. The physical bulk is also necessary for taking big hits from heavy hitters such as Terrakion, Mega Salamence, and Mega Metagross so Gastrodon can retaliate with the appropriate moves. The Special Attack investment allows Gastrodon to OHKO 4 HP / 0 SpD Terrakion with Earth Power and gives it a 56.3% chance to OHKO 4 HP Mega Metagross. Expert Belt is recommended because it helps Gastrodon get the needed KOs on the aforementioned Pokemon without hindering Gastrodon's longevity or coverage. 27 Speed IVs should be used in order to underspeed Aegislash and OHKO its Blade forme with Earth Power. Usage Tips This Gastrodon is meant to be played more offensively as to net some surprise KOs, unlike the traditional bulky Gastrodon, which can become a burden after a certain point. With its niche being Storm Drain, Gastrodon works best at switching in on a predicted Water move to protect its ally as well as gain a Special Attack boost, making it a threat on the field. This turns Gastrodon into a viable check to rain teams, as it is able to prevent the onslaught of the boosted Water-type moves that every rain team carries. However, slapping Gastrodon on a team just to beat rain is not always recommended, because rain teams often have ways of dealing with it, such as by means of Ludicolo. Gastrodon does well against the omnipresent Thundurus and Landorus, as it can shrug off their attacks reasonably well (barring Choice Specs-boosted Grass Knot) and retaliate with a strong hit. Gastrodon also beats Rotom-W, as it is immune to both of Rotom-W's STAB moves and does not mind Will-O-Wisp that much, but don't be too comfortable, as Gastrodon cannot do much back to Rotom-W. Team Options Heatran and Gastrodon make up a solid core, as they can cover each other's weaknesses very well. Gastrodon can maul Ground-types for Heatran and also keep it safe from Water moves, while Heatran can maul the Grass-types that Gastrodon greatly fears. Other bulky Fire-types such as Rotom-H, Arcanine, and Entei have good typing synergy with Gastrodon and can aid it in burning targets with Will-O-Wisp and Sacred Fire. Gastrodon has a bit of a hard time breaking through specially bulky Pokemon such as Sylveon and Cresselia, which makes Bisharp a solid partner. Mega Salamence makes for a good partner, as it is able to take advantage of Gastrodon's ability to weaken Steel- and Rock-type Pokemon, and it can set up Dragon Dances on Grass-types. Gastrodon's low Speed stat makes it a decent option for a Trick Room team, as it would be able to get the damage off before taking heavy hits. Slowbro is a strong Trick Room setting partner for Gastrodon, as it is slower under Trick Room and can use Surf to boost Gastrodon's Special Attack via Storm Drain.

One of Gastrodon's best qualities is its ability to come in on offensive Kyogre variants and stop them in their tracks. With immunities to both Water Spout and Thunder, and taking only 22.1% - 26.4% from an unboosted Ice Beam, Gastrodon can simply hit Kyogre with Toxic and spam Recover until Kyogre dies or switches out. Needless to say, this set is most effective against Kyogre's Choice sets, but it can also deal with other sets in a pinch. Support sets that run Thunder Wave over Water Spout are easily dealt with, and offensive Calm Mind sets also run into trouble. Even a +6 Ice Beam isn't guaranteed an OHKO, at which point Toxic will likely have killed Kyogre. RestTalk sets are troublesome as they can PP stall Gastrodon successfully, although if Sleep Talk selects Surf persistently, then Gastrodon can bolster the power of its own Scald to devastating levels, steamrolling Kyogre along with the rain boost. Scald is Gastrodon's primary attacking move, as the Special Attack boost gained from switching into Kyogre's Water-type moves allows it to hit neutral targets hard. It also has the advantage of occasionally burning Steel-types, who can otherwise come in on Gastrodon fairly easily. Recover is godly for Gastrodon, and vastly increasing its stalling power against many special attackers. Toxic is used to stack up residual damage and help Gastrodon stall in the first place, although if Toxic Spikes support is provided then Gastrodon can afford to run an extra attacking or utility move in its place. Mirror Coat is the primary option for the last slot because it allows Gastrodon to check other special attackers, such as Palkia and Dialga. With the given EV set, Gastrodon is never 2HKOed by Timid Lustrous Orb Palkia's Spacial Rend, and Gastrodon can thus rebound the attack with Mirror Coat for an easy OHKO on Palkia, recovering the damage off at some other point. Dialga's Draco Meteor also fails to 2HKO Gastrodon, letting it switch in and recover off the damage. However, Gastrodon has several other viable options for the last slot. Earth Power provides a useful secondary STAB and can hit Dragon-types harder than Scald after the Storm Drain boost. Clear Smog can be used to deal with Calm Mind users more directly; sadly, it fails against Arceus-Steel. On the other hand, Mirror Coat is arguably more effective against some Calm Mind users, as they will often fail to OHKO Gastrodon with their attacks, allowing it to bounce back the damage for an easy OHKO of your own. For example, a +6 Arceus-Steel Judgment only deals 57.7% - 68.3% to Gastrodon. The Speed EVs let Gastrodon outspeed uninvested Forretress, saving your team from an extra layer of hazards in certain situations, which is always nice. Furthermore, if Gastrodon has absorbed one of Kyogre's attacks and the opponent switches to Forretress in response, a rain- and Storm Drain-boosted Scald can even 2HKO specially defensive variants. A physically defensive EV spread is also usable, and helps to make Gastrodon with Clear Smog a more reliable check to many physical attackers. With 252 Defense EVs and a Calm nature, Gastrodon can take a +2 Life Orb Extreme Speed from Arceus or two Outrages from Lustrous Orb Palkia. It can also survive a High Jump Kick from 252 Adamant Life Orb Blaziken. Such a spread is not particularly good though, as most teams that use Gastrodon to ward off Kyogre would be using its antithesis Groudon, which obviously outclasses Gastrodon as a physical wall. Ice Beam can also be used as a secondary attacking option, as it hits Grass- and Dragon- types that resist Scald hard.

This set capitalizes on Gastrodon's bulkiness and also provides some offensive capabilities with Storm Drain. The Special Attack boost gives Gastrodon some offensive power, while still allowing for an EV investment in the defenses. Surf allows Gastrodon to utilize its best STAB spread move, but the fact that it hits your other Pokemon on the field might make you wary of it. If you are worried about hitting your own Pokemon at a crucial time, Muddy Water is an excellent replacement option. Muddy Water has a 30% chance to lower the opposing Pokemon's accuracy, which could be enough reason to use it despite its 85% accuracy. Ice Beam is recommended because of its 100% accuracy and the fact that it isn't blocked by Wide Guard. Icy Wind is another option, because it hits both opposing Pokemon and can lower their Speed, which could be an asset in the battle. Earth Power allows Gastrodon to utilize its other STAB, and hits Steel-types for more damage. It also hits harder if Gastrodon is forced to play in the sun. Toxic can be used if you feel that hitting Steel-types is unnecessary, as it will take its toll on the opposing Pokemon. Recover is useful on Gastrodon because it takes hits well and can just get HP back rather than using Protect and being dead weight for a turn. This set is Gastrodon's best because of its versatility. It works exceptionally well under the rain, and works well in Hail, Sand, and is able to survive in Sun. With plenty of coverage moves, Gastrodon is able to take on most physical attackers in the metagame. Rindo Berry is used in order to survive Grass-type moves such as Power Whip, SolarBeam, Wood Hammer, Grass Knot, and Energy Ball, but Sitrus Berry is another option if you're not worried about those moves. Gastrodon's other abilities aren't nearly as potent as Storm Drain. Sticky Hold doesn't have much use in doubles, as Trick and Knock Off aren't seen all that often. Sand Force also doesn't benefit Gastrodon much because its offensive stats aren't high enough to merit the use of it over Storm Drain. Gastrodon could also use the same set but with a spread of 252 HP / 4 Def / 252 SpD for a specially bulky set. A Calm nature would be more optimal with that spread. Another more offensive spread with a 252 SpA EV investment is able to KO Terrakion with a +1 Muddy Water, and Thundurus with a +1 Ice Beam. With this, it can also OHKO 252 HP Metagross with a +1 Earth Power. Gastrodon can also be given a speed IV of 0 and used under Trick Room. Gastrodon's movepool is fairly shallow, although it has enough for good coverage and support. Gastrodon has great use in VGC 2012 because of its resistances to Heat Wave, Discharge, Surf, Water Spout, and Rock Slide. A good partner for Gastrodon is Politoed, which can set up rain and use Surf to activate Storm Drain. Pokemon with Water Absorb are also good partners, as it is mutually beneficial to both Pokemon. Abomasnow can be a good partner as well, because its STAB Blizzard hurts Grass-types that threaten Gastrodon. Electric-types such Zapdos, Thundurus, and the Rotom formes are also very good partners, because they can launch off Discharge without fear of hurting their own ally.

Earth Power and Ice Beam are the preferred attacking options, hitting every common threat save Rotom-Wash for at least neutral damage; however, Gastrodon's Water-type moves frequently inflict dangerous secondary effects and warrant consideration. The final move on its set is determined by what the team needs, with Yawn giving it a strong pressure option or Recover allowing it to win long endgames. Gastrodon’s offensive investment allows it to OHKO no-bulk Landorus-T with Ice Beam and OHKO 212 HP / 4 SpD Heatran, a common spread. 172 HP EVs give Gastrodon optimal HP for Leftovers, Sitrus Berry, and Recover. The Defense investment guarantees that Gastrodon survives a Life Orb maximum Attack Hammer Arm from Conkeldurr or a Flying Gem Acrobatics from Tornadus. A minimum of 76 Special Defense EVs are needed to survive a Timid Latios Dragon Gem Draco Meteor. The remaining 64 EVs were dumped into Special Defense, but can be put into Special Attack to have better odds to OHKO bulkier Landorus-T and Heatran spreads. The 4 EVs put into Speed let Gastrodon outspeed minimum Speed Tyranitar or no-investment Gastrodon but there are potentially worthwhile Speed thresholds to hit with the remaining EVs. For example, 52 EVs enable Gastrodon to outspeed Adamant Conkeldurr and 68 EVs allow it to outspeed minimum speed Metagross and Politoed. Rindo Berry ensures Gastrodon can survive one hit from Amoonguss and Abomasnow, while Leftovers or Sitrus Berry increases its longevity outside of Recover. Other Options Gastrodon can run Toxic or Clear Smog instead of Protect to deal with setup threats it otherwise couldn’t beat. More offensive sets that run items like Ground Gem and Life Orb turn what is typically considered a passive Pokemon into an offensive threat, as Ground Gem-boosted Earth Power always OHKOes Metagross and almost always OHKOes Shuca Berry Heatran as well. Common Partners Heatran is supported well by Storm Drain removing one of its few weaknesses and threatens the Grass-types that defeat Gastrodon. Tyranitar is also protected by Storm Drain and appreciates Gastrodon eliminating the Steel-types that it can struggle against. Checks and Counters Amoonguss, Breloom, and Abomasnow are the only commonly used Grass-type Pokemon in the format and can wipe Gastrodon off the board with ease. Gastrodon's Rindo Berry only reduces the damage of the first hit of Breloom's Bullet Seed, and the second will KO it. Conkeldurr, Latios, and other Pokemon with explosive single target attacks can KO an even slightly weakened Gastrodon with their STAB attacks. The stray HP Grass set, such as Aaron Zheng's Worlds Heatran, can catch any non-Rindo Berry Gastrodon by surprise.

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

Gastrodon has a great defensive typing and solid ability, giving it an immunity to Water- and Electric-type attacks. It also has good bulk, only being OHKOed by Grass-types and Outrage from Choice Band Kyurem-B. Gastrodon has access to reliable coverage, hitting common metagame staples, such as Landorus-T, Thundurus, and Heatran, super effectively. This makes Gastrodon one of the best anti-metagame Pokemon, capable of countering common threats as well as being a soft check to rain, deterring Kingdra from spamming Muddy Water. Gastrodon's damage output, however, is low even on super effective hits. This could be mitigated with Storm Drain boosts but it is not particularly reliable. More importantly, it faces competition with Jellicent as a bulky Water-type, which has more utility and is an easier fit for most teams, relegating Gastrodon to only specific team compositions. Gastrodon hits the entire metagame for at least neutral damage with Earth Power and Ice Beam, the former being a reliable STAB attack that OHKOes Heatran and the latter hitting Flying-types, such as Landorus-T and Thundurus, super effectively. Recover increases Gastrodon's longevity. Toxic supplements Gastrodon's low damage output, allowing it to put bulky Pokemon, such as Jellicent and Cresselia, on a timer. Scald or Muddy Water can be used for a Water-type STAB attack but does not hit any relevant threats. Sitrus Berry is the preferred item to give Gastrodon instant recovery, allowing it to stay on the field longer. The given EV spread lets Gastrodon survive consecutive Dragon Gem Latios's Draco Meteor and has a high chance of surviving Life Orb Conkeldurr's Hammer Arm, while the Special Attack investment allows Gastrodon to OHKO Substitute Heatran. Gastrodon likes to control the field by using its excellent coverage and the threat of Toxic to deter common Pokemon from switching in. It also has an excellent matchup against Thundurus, rain and sand teams. Gastrodon prefers strong teammates that can make up for its potential low damage output. Genesect and Metagross benefit from Gastrodon's ability to beat Heatran, Thundurus, and Landorus-T. In return, Genesect and Metagross can both threaten Kyurem-B, which can shrug off Gastrodon's attacks and threaten a KO with a Choice Band Outrage. Heatran is another excellent teammate, as it can beat Amoonguss, while Gastrodon is able to threaten Landorus-T and opposing Heatran in return. Gastrodon can also redirect Water-type attacks, allowing Heatran to potentially set up a Substitute in front of Jellicent. Landorus-T's Intimidate can increase Gastrodon's longevity. In return, Gastrodon can redirect Water-type attacks and threaten opposing Landorus-T. The double Ground-type core also shuts down Thundurus, supporting the rest of Gastrodon's team, especially those that are more susceptible to Thundurus.

Thanks to its great typing and decent attacking stats, Gastrodon can effectively play the role of a bulky Water while maintaining some form of offense. Surf is Gastrodon's primary and most powerful special attack that can keep Fire- and Ground-types, such as Donphan and Arcanine, at bay. In the second moveslot, you have a choice between Ice Beam or Earth Power. Ice Beam is the suggested option as it enables Gastrodon to OHKO Altaria after Stealth Rock damage, as well as hitting common Grass-type switch-ins, such as Venusaur and Leafeon, for super effective damage. Although it provides some redundant coverage alongside Surf, Earth Power hits Registeel, Kabutops, and Toxicroak for super effective damage and gets STAB. Toxic enables Gastrodon to get past common opposing bulky Water-types, such as Milotic and Slowbro, whom Gastrodon would otherwise be unable to scratch. Calm Mind Slowbro and non-RestTalk Milotic are easily beaten by the Toxic and Recover combo, as Gastrodon has enough special bulk to shrug off their attacks. However, it should be noted that some Milotic carry Hidden Power Grass, which will end Gastrodon's life quite quickly. Recover is probably the biggest asset that Gastrodon possesses, allowing it to consistently switch in on resisted attacks and heal off any damage, thereby dramatically increasing its longevity. 252 EVs are dumped into Gastrodon's Defense, its lesser defensive stat, in order to take most resisted and neutral physical attacks with ease. 212 HP EVs give Gastrodon more bulk overall, while the remaining EVs are invested in Special Defense, allowing Gastrodon to take boosted Surfs from offensive Milotic more easily. To demonstrate Gastrodon's physical bulk, Donphan fails to 2HKO it with Earthquake after Stealth Rock, meaning that Gastrodon can switch in on the attack, take another hit, and Recover off the damage. One of the biggest obstacles that Gastrodon faces is its glaring weakness to Grass-type attacks. Therefore, having a teammate that can absorb such attacks is highly advised. Venusaur can more than compensate for Gastrodon's 4x weakness to Grass-type attacks, as it can switch in on other Grass-type Pokemon and immediately threaten them with its powerful STAB Sludge Bomb. Moltres has exceptional synergy with Gastrodon, as Gastrodon resists and is immune to both Rock- and Electric-type moves, respectively. In return, Moltres can massacre Registeel and Grass-types, both of which are immensely difficult for Gastrodon to take on.

Gastrodon's great physical movepool and access to Curse enable it to act as a dangerous boosting tank if used correctly. With only one weakness, solid defensive stats, a handful of resistances, an immunity to Trick, and the ever-useful Recover, Gastrodon can set up on many common Pokemon in the UU metagame, making it a solid bulky sweeper and "win-condition" Pokemon. Despite Gastrodon's less-than-impressive Attack and Defense stats, it reaches a respectable 303 Attack and 279 Defense after a Curse, making it more than capable of taking several hits while striking back for significant damage. For instance, after a single Curse, Gastrodon can 2HKO both Registeel and offensive Rotom. While Curse does lower Gastrodon's Speed, this is essentially inconsequential, as Gastrodon is terribly slow to begin with. Waterfall and Earthquake offer somewhat decent coverage between them, granting Gastrodon the ability to hit most common threats for at least neutral damage. What makes Gastrodon stand out from almost all other Curse users (bar Quagsire) is its access to instant recovery, which ensures that it can set up properly when given the correct team support. The EV spread is very straightforward. 252 HP EVs are used to maximize Gastrodon's bulk, while 200 Special Defense EVs and a Careful nature allow Gastrodon to take neutral and resisted special attacks with the utmost ease. The remaining EVs are dumped into Defense, allowing the sea slug to take almost any powerful physical attack after a Curse or two. A mono-attacker Curse set can be used--specifically, a moveset of Curse, Waterfall, Rest, and Sleep Talk. With this set, Gastrodon has the advantage of becoming a status absorber, but this leaves Gastrodon walled by a large amount of common Pokemon, and easily set up on by others. This set requires teammates that can switch in on Grass-type attacks with ease. Both Chansey and Registeel are good partners since they can cripple opposing Pokemon with Thunder Wave or Toxic. Fire-types such as Moltres and Arcanine are also great teammates that resist Grass-type attacks from the likes of Tangrowth's Power Whip and Leafeon's Leaf Blade and can retaliate with super effective Fire-type attacks.

This set capitalizes on Gastrodon's unique access to Block, Yawn, and Memento to allow one completely free turn for a teammate to set up, making it a perfect support Pokemon for sweepers such as Linoone and Charizard. The idea is to use Block as the opponent switches out of Gastrodon, then absorb the incoming hit (Rindo Berry will allow it to survive all but the most powerful of Grass-type attacks) and use Yawn. From there, Gastrodon should use Memento to ensure that your next Pokemon gets in for free, just as the opposing -2 Atk / -2 SpA Pokemon falls asleep from Yawn. The final moveslot is primarily for breaking Substitutes, which can be quite annoying for this strategy, it also ensures that Gastrodon is not helpless against Taunt. This Gastrodon obviously needs a very specific kind of teammate--namely one that can take that one free turn and use it to cause as much damage as possible. With that in mind, Linoone is the ideal partner, thanks to the combination of Belly Drum, Extreme Speed, and Gluttony, Linoone can arguably accomplish more in a single turn than any other Pokemon in UU. Charizard is also an option as it can use the free turn to set up a Substitute and, on the following turn, use Belly Drum to simultaneously activate its Salac Berry and max out its Attack. Since any team using this Gastrodon will ultimately be relying on it (and the subsequent sweeper) to secure victory, it's important to be aware of the threats that might thwart Gastrodon's set-up attempts. Substitute has already been mentioned as a potential thorn in Gastrodon's side, so be extra cautious of that when a common Substitute user such as Mismagius switches in. In this situation, Gastrodon can either use its attack to break the Substitute, or predict the initial switch-in and use Yawn instead of Block to force it back out again. Explosion is also a huge concern, as not only will it deal hefty damage to Gastrodon, but it will also cause the opposing Pokemon to faint, preventing you from getting that crucial free turn. It is also vital that, when using this set, you scout the opposing team well for Lum Berry users, as they can absorb the Yawn and make Gastrodon's sacrifice a lot less effective.