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Moves Flare Blitz is Infernape's most powerful physical Fire-type STAB move, hitting most foes that don't resist it for impressive damage. Close Combat hits typical Fire-type switch-ins, such as Heatran, Swampert, and Garchomp, for impressive damage, OHKOing the former and 2HKOing the latter two after Stealth Rock. U-turn pivots Infernape out of unfavorable matchups and adequately dents some of its switch-ins, most notably Latios and Slowbro. Mach Punch is powerful priority when boosted by Iron Fist, being able to aid Infernape in picking off weakened threats, such as Greninja, Choice Scarf Excadrill, and Mega Sharpedo. Stone Edge can be used over Mach Punch, as it provides valuable coverage against bulky Flying-types like Zapdos and Mantine. Earthquake is also an option for hitting bulky Poison-types like Toxapex and Nidoking quite hard. Set Details Maximum investment in Attack gives Infernape considerable power, which is boosted to extremely impressive levels with a Choice Band. Full investment in Speed with a Jolly nature allows Infernape to outpace a good portion of the metagame, including common threats in Manaphy, Garchomp, and unboosted Volcarona. Iron Fist is the preferred ability, as it boosts the power of Mach Punch. However, if Infernape opts to run a different move in its fourth slot, Blaze is the better pick for increasing Flare Blitz's power once Infernape is low on health. Usage Tips This set should be used with the intention of breaking past the opposing team's walls in order to pave way for a teammate's sweep. U-turn should be used as much as possible early-game, as this will allow Infernape to whittle down the opposing team and frequently generate momentum. Mach Punch should be utilized against weakened threats like Mega Sharpedo and Greninja, as they will be easily picked off and kept from further threatening Infernape's team. This set must use proper prediction in order to be used to as much success as possible. If Infernape is running Stone Edge or Earthquake, and a foe that takes super effective damage from these attacks, such as Mantine or Toxapex, is predicted to switch in, Infernape should use its super effective coverage to deal heavy damage to these Pokemon. Lastly, Infernape should be wary of faster threats when utilizing this set, due to its subpar bulk and lesser Speed than the Choice Scarf set. Even Pokemon that Infernape Speed ties with, like Keldeo and Terrakion, should be looked out for due to their ability to OHKO it if they win the tie. Team Options Choice Scarf Blacephalon is a key partner for this set, as it is able to revenge kill Nihilego and other threats, enabling Infernape to take on a wallbreaker role instead. Setup sweepers like Volcarona and Mega Charizard X make good teammates, since they appreciate Infernape's ability to weaken opposing teams and give them an easier time sweeping. Pokemon that have trouble dealing with specially defensive Pokemon like Alolan Muk and Blissey, such as Volcanion and Heatran, also make good teammates due to Infernape's ability to adequately pressure their checks. These two also have good uses themselves, as Volcanion provides a switch-in to Water-type attacks while Heatran can easily take on Nihilego, which Infernape has more trouble doing with this set. Stealth Rock setters like Torkoal and Heatran allow Infernape to break past foes more easily, while also punishing switch-ins. Rotom-H can set up Reflect and Light Screen for Infernape to alleviate its poor defenses, while also forming a potent VoltTurn core with it and bringing it into play safely. Drought users like Torkoal and Mega Charizard Y can help power up Infernape's Flare Blitz, which becomes devastatingly powerful under sun. Torkoal and Rotom-H are both even more useful due to their access to entry hazard removal. Pokemon capable of pressuring bulky Water-types, like Rotom-H, Mega Charizard Y, and Victini, which can use a Choice Scarf to keep faster foes in check that Infernape loses to with this set, can help circumvent Infernape's weakness to Pokemon like Azumarill and Tapu Fini.

Moves Flare Blitz is a powerful STAB attack that Infernape can use to revenge kill various boosted sweepers, such as Magearna, Bisharp, and Mimikyu. Close Combat provides excellent coverage alongside Flare Blitz, allowing Infernape to hit Rock-types like Terrakion, Tyranitar, and Omastar super effectively while also doing heavy damage to others, like Mega Aerodactyl and Nihilego. It also nails Heatran, which is immune to Flare Blitz due to Flash Fire, and Normal-types like Porygon2. U-turn is a good move for Infernape to use when predicting switches to Pokemon that can check it, such as Latios and Tapu Fini, and is useful for generating momentum. Stone Edge can be used to adequately revenge kill Flying and Fire-types, including Zapdos, Dragonite, Volcarona, and Mega Charizard X. Earthquake is an option over Stone Edge that is useful for OHKOing Nihilego 100% of the time while also doing heavy damage to Electric-types like Xurkitree and Tapu Koko. Set Details Maximum investment in Attack is important for maximizing Infernape's offensive presence even with a neutral nature. Maximum investment in Speed is also quite important, as with a Choice Scarf, it gives Infernape the ability to outrun the entire unboosted metagame and function as a reliable revenge killer. Blaze is the preferred ability, as it has situational use in that it can increase Flare Blitz's power when Infernape is at low health. Usage Tips This set's best function is as a revenge killer, which means that it should be used after a teammate has been sacrificed to dispose of threats like Tapu Bulu, Bisharp, Porygon-Z, and Nihilego. However, due to Infernape's poor damage output, it is important to make sure this set isn't being used to take care of defensive threats. Due to the nature of Choice Scarf, it is important to carefully predict while using Infernape. For example, if Infernape is predicting the switch to a Pokemon that walls it, such as Suicune or Slowbro, it is best to pivot out of play with U-turn to avoid losing momentum. The same can be said with hitting various switch-ins hard with super effective coverage, such as Toxapex with Earthquake and Mantine with Stone Edge. Unnecessary residual damage from entry hazards and poison should be avoided, as they will keep Infernape from putting either Choice Scarf or Flare Blitz to full use. Paralysis is also important to avoid, since Infernape's revenge killing capabilities will be compromised if its Speed is lowered. When using this set, Defense and Special Defense drops from Close Combat are also something to be wary about, as they can leave Infernape even more susceptible to priority or faster attackers. Infernape can attempt using this set to clean up late-game. However, it is important that all of its checks are either removed or heavily weakened if it does try to clean up, due to the drawbacks of its STAB attacks. Team Options Wallbreakers that appreciate the removal of sweepers that heavily pressure them, such as Choice Band Victini, Mega Charizard Y, and Volcanion, which is particularly useful for its Water-type immunity, enjoy having Infernape as a teammate due to its revenge killing capabilities. Setup sweepers like Volcarona and Mega Charizard X also appreciate Infernape as a teammate, as it can pave way for them by taking out opposing sweepers. Blacephalon can take on multiple roles either as a Calm Mind sweeper or as a wallbreaker that appreciates having switches in from U-turn and can break many of the physical walls that check Infernape. Pokemon that can switch into or pressure Water-types, such as Volcanion, Mega Charizard Y, and Victini, are often useful to Infernape as teammates. Infernape also likes being paired with Pokemon that can cover its Flying-type weakness, which makes Rotom-H and Heatran good options as teammates. Entry hazard support from the likes of Torkoal and Heatran can aid Infernape in punishing switch-ins and breaking past foes more reliably. Torkoal can also remove entry hazards to prevent Infernape from taking residual damage, and Heatran can also help deal with Mega Diancie and Nihilego, which takes some weight off of Infernape's shoulders. Rotom-H can form a VoltTurn core with Infernape as well as bring it into play safely with slow pivoting. It also provides an immunity to Ground-type attacks, which is crucial for both Infernape and its other teammates. Torkoal and Mega Charizard Y's Drought can power up Infernape's Flare Blitz, which can be potentially useful late-game. Either Torkoal or Rotom-H is essential to prevent hazards like Toxic Spikes from crippling Infernape over time. Lastly, with Extreme Speed, Choice Band Entei can finish off Pokemon that Infernape may not be able to late-game, such as Mega Diancie and Choice Scarf Nihilego, assuming they survive Close Combat.

Moves Stealth Rock and Taunt are Infernape's core moves, allowing it to both set up entry hazards and prevent the opponent's hazards, giving the team an advantage from the beginning. Taunt is especially important for the Bug matchup, as if Infernape wins the Speed tie, it can prevent Galvantula from setting up the all-important Sticky Web that allows Mega Pinsir to rip through Fighting teams. It also helps against Flying, where Infernape outspeeds most common Defoggers. Fire Blast and Close Combat give Infernape offensive presence, as they are its strongest moves and give it mixed capabilities, being especially dangerous for Steel teams to handle. Alternatively, Endeavor can be used with Vacuum Wave to cripple and then KO one Pokemon if not two after Infernape has set Stealth Rock. However, Infernape will have little to no use outside of as a lead with this set. Set Details The EV spread maximizes Infernape's damage output and Speed, making it as effective of a lead as possible. The Naive nature reduces damage taken from priority moves while making sure Infernape can Speed tie with Galvantula. Focus Sash makes Infernape a reliable lead that can at least get up Stealth Rock and still either Taunt or fire off an attack after. Blaze is the only useful ability for this set, as once Infernape is knocked down to 1 HP, its Fire Blast can deal even more damage. If Infernape uses Endeavor, it should use 0 IVs in HP, Defense, and Special Defense, to get down to 1 HP as easily as possible. Usage Tips Infernape should be used as a lead in almost every scenario, as it doesn't have much use late-game. Be careful of anti-leads, though, and save Infernape for later if it would be matched against a faster Taunt user such as Aerodactyl or a Magic Bounce user like Mega Sableye. Because Fighting teams lack entry hazard removal, Infernape should usually prioritize Taunting opposing leads over getting up its own Stealth Rock. However, in matchups like Flying where Stealth Rock is most important, Stealth Rock should be set and kept up at all costs. Most of the time, Infernape should just attack until it gets KOed after it fulfills its role to give a teammate a free switch in. Against more defensive Pokemon like Mantine, Infernape should try to use Taunt the turn it is KOed, to support its teammates as much as possible. For example, against Steel teams, Infernape should typically spam its super effective STAB attacks, as very few Steel-types can switch into it. It is worth saving Infernape for later too, when it is threatened by a revenge killer, as it is important for this matchup. For Endeavor sets, usually Infernape should set Stealth Rock the turn it's being brought down to its Focus Sash, which can be followed with Endeavor afterwards to cripple almost any slower foe. Against certain types like Flying and Bug that are especially weak to Stealth Rock, however, preserving Infernape may be necessary to make sure it can set entry hazards multiple times throughout the battle. Team Options Setup sweepers like Kommo-o appreciate Infernape's Stealth Rock making it easier for them to sweep late-game. In addition, Pokemon like Mega Gallade can benefit from the foe being Taunted as Infernape goes down, possibly giving them a free turn to set up. Other late-game cleaners like Choice Scarf Buzzwole and Heracross that gain an Attack boost with every KO have a much better chance of pulling off a full sweep after Stealth Rock has been slowly wearing down the opposing team. Focus Sash users such as Breloom and Terrakion require Taunt's utility, as most Fighting teams have no other partially reliable way of preventing opposing entry hazards, so Infernape is often a good teammate for them. Against Bug teams, Choice Scarf Terrakion is typically an important revenge killer that can outspeed Choice Scarf Heracross and +1 Volcarona. Infernape's ability to Taunt Galvantula if it wins a Speed tie and prevent Sticky Web from slowing Terrakion down is essential for making sure it can continue to check those fast threats. Wallbreakers like Keldeo appreciate Stealth Rock helping net easier KOs; for example, Flying teams struggle to deal with Keldeo's powerful super effective attacks when Stealth Rock punishes every switch to a check.

Moves Stealth Rock allows Infernape to function as an offensive lead, offering fast entry hazard support for its teammates. Taunt allows Infernape to hassle slower Pokemon that might try to set up their own entry hazards, keeping them off your side of the field. Fire Blast gives Infernape a usable Fire-type STAB move to deal damage with, the primary target of which is Forretress, which would otherwise be able to freely come in and use Rapid Spin. Mach Punch also gives Infernape a usable offensive move with priority, allowing Infernape to safely pick off a faster threat after using Endeavor. This allows Infernape to succeed against faster leads safely. Endeavor lets Infernape bring its target down to however much HP Infernape has; this works well with Focus Sash, as Infernape will be able to always survive with at least 1 HP, leaving the opposing Pokemon to be picked off by Mach Punch or one of Infernape's teammates. Overheat can be used over Fire Blast for its superior accuracy and power, as Infernape will seldom get off more than one attack, and Taunt keeps Infernape from being used as setup bait after the Special Attack drops from Overheat. Flare Blitz allows Infernape to take itself out after its Focus Sash has been used, allowing Infernape to block Rapid Spin and Defog and giving one of Infernape's teammates a free switch. Another attacking move should be used over Taunt in conjunction with Flare Blitz, as it is undesireable to have Infernape's only attack break its Focus Sash prematurely. Set Details A Timid nature with maximum Special Attack and Speed investment gives as much power as possible to Fire Blast while maximizing Infernape's Speed, allowing it to take full advantage of its role as a lead. If using Mach Punch, use a Jolly nature with the Special Attack EVs placed into Attack instead. Focus Sash allows Infernape to survive any attack with at least 1 HP, ensuring it is at least able to set up Stealth Rock. Blaze is the preferred ability if running Fire Blast, and can also be helpful with Focus Sash, allowing Infernape to deliver a boosted Fire Blast at 1 HP. If running Mach Punch as the attacking move, Iron Fist is the preferred ability, as it gives Mach Punch a bit of extra power. Usage Tips This set should always be used as the team's designated lead, so send it out first. Surprise factor is a big draw to using this set, as Infernape is seldom ever seen as a suicide lead. Set up Stealth Rock immediately, using Endeavor once Infernape's Focus Sash has been activated. Only use Taunt against slower Pokemon that are capable of setting their own entry hazards up. Be wary of Ghost-types, as they will shut this set down due to their immunity to both Endeavor and Mach Punch. Chandelure is a particularly big issue, as it is also immune to Fire Blast, making it a hard counter. This set isn't bothered by Choice Scarf users too badly thanks to Endeavor, allowing Infernape to deal with them early-game. Beware of opposing Focus Sash leads, as nearly all of them hinder Infernape in some way: Galvantula can set up Sticky Web, and Taunt isn't a reliable way of stopping it because Infernape can only Speed tie with it; Espeon and Aerodactyl both outspeed Infernape and can thus set up with their respective moves before Infernape can do anything, and the latter two Pokemon can use Taunt to hinder Infernape. Team Options This set is to be used only for heavily offensive teams, so pair it with offensive Pokemon. Attackers such as Hydreigon, Mienshao, Roserade, Celebi, Heliolisk, and Nidoking all benefit from Infernape's Stealth Rock support, while many are able to put offensive pressure on Rapid Spin and Defog users. Mega Aerodactyl, Honchkrow, and Krookodile are capable of trapping Ghost-types with Pursuit, making it easier for Infernape to do its job. Setup sweepers such as Lucario, Suicune, and Mega Absol can sweep much more easily while Stealth Rock is on the opposing side.

Moves Nasty Plot allows Infernape to function as a boosting sweeper that can muscle past even some of the sturdier defensive Pokemon in the tier. Fire Blast is Infernape's strongest Fire-type STAB move that is bolstered by Nasty Plot. While it seems odd to run a physical move on a Nasty Plot sweeper, Close Combat allows Infernape to play as a wallbreaker, muscling through Blissey, Snorlax, and Umbreon, all of which would otherwise stop Infernape flat. However, if these Pokemon are not a concern, Vacuum Wave can be used to fulfill Infernape's role as a sweeper, giving it a useful priority move against faster threats. Lastly, Grass Knot allows Infernape to break through bulky Water-types such as Swampert, Suicune, and Vaporeon after a boost. Set Details Life Orb is the necessary item for this set, as it maximizes Infernape's damage output. The given EV spread allows Infernape to always OHKO 252 / 252 Bold Blissey while still having a fairly high chance of OHKOing Umbreon as well. A Naive nature with full Speed investment maximizes Infernape's Speed, capitalizing on its excellent base 108 Speed while allowing it to perform as a mixed attacker. The remaining EVs are placed into Special Attack to bolster the power of Infernape's special moves. If Vacuum Wave is used, use an EV spread of 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe with a Timid nature to make Infernape a full special sweeper. Lastly, an alternate EV spread of 76 Atk / 180 SpA / 252 Spe with a Naive nature can be used to give Infernape more Special Attack while letting it OHKO Umbreon after Stealth Rock and still have a fairly high chance of OHKOing Blissey. Usage Tips Take advantage of Infernape's ability to threaten numerous offensive and defensive Pokemon early-game with its amazing Speed and coverage, setting up mid-game once an opportunity is presented. Given how frail Infernape is, it can be difficult to find many opportunities to set up Nasty Plot against a Pokemon that stays in, so capitalize on using the move when Infernape is able to force a switch; after a boost, Infernape can handle the majority of defensive Pokemon in the tier. While this set functions as a boosting sweeper, it primarily functions as a wallbreaker, doing more work breaking through defensive Pokemon after a boost for another sweeper to clean up afterward. If running Vacuum Wave, Infernape should be treated as the team's designated sweeper, only attempting to use Nasty Plot once faster Pokemon that can survive a +2 Vacuum Wave have been removed. Team Options Special attackers such as Mega Blastoise, Heliolisk, Hydreigon, and Nidoking partner well with Infernape, as they all appreciate this set's ability to plow through special walls. Physical attackers such as Mega Beedrill, Krookodile, Mienshao, and Mega Swampert also work well with this set, as Infernape can lure in and eliminate bulky Water-types for them. Pokemon such as Chesnaught, Roserade, Froslass, Forretress, Metagross, Nidoqueen, and Swampert can provide entry hazards to allow Infernape and its offensive teammates to break down the opposing team more easily. Pokemon such as Mega Aerodactyl, Mega Abomasnow, Mega Ampharos, Choice Scarf Hydreigon, and Empoleon also partner well with this set, as they can check the faster Flying-type Pokemon that threaten Infernape.

Moves Close Combat serves as Infernape's main STAB move. In tandem with Choice Band, it allows Infernape to threaten a majority of the tier and punish bulky Water-types such as Milotic or a slightly weakened Suicune trying to switch in. Flare Blitz is an excellent secondary STAB move that hits Poison-, Flying- and Fairy-types such as Crobat and Sylveon, which resist Fighting, hard. Mach Punch gives Infernape the ability to pick off weakened threats such as Mega Sceptile and Mega Aerodactyl. Only a little bit of prior chip damage is necessary for Mach Punch to KO Hydreigon, and it is likely to OHKO Mega Sharpedo. U-turn allows Infernape to bait in and chip down answers such as Chandelure, Gyarados, and Tentacruel. Earthquake can be used over Mach Punch to lure in and remove Tentacruel, Chandelure, and Arcanine. Set Details Iron Fist is the ability of choice because it boosts Mach Punch's power. Blaze is used with Earthquake, as Iron Fist would do nothing and a Blaze-boosted Flare Blitz can be helpful. Maximum Attack EVs enable Infernape to hit as hard as possible. Maximum Speed investment helps it outrun much of the unboosted metagame, including threats such as non-Choice Scarf Hydreigon and Celebi, whilst Speed tying with Cobalion and opposing Infernape. Choice Band maximizes the power of Infernape's moves, letting it threaten a large part of the tier without any boosts and deal as much damage as possible with Mach Punch and U-turn. Usage Tips U-turn is the best move to use early on, as it chips down Infernape's checks and provides momentum. Try not to lock Infernape into a move that lets dangerous Pokemon such as Gyarados set up. If you are using Earthquake, utilize it to lure in and remove Pokemon such as Chandelure, Tentacruel, and Arcanine as they try to switch in. Once the Pokemon that resist both of Infernape's STAB moves have been sufficiently worn down, start using Close Combat and Flare Blitz liberally to break down opposing teams. Mach Punch can revenge kill a lot of fast threats and potentially clean up in the end-game. Team Options Infernape appreciates Pursuit support from Pokemon such as Mega Aerodactyl and Choice Band Krookodile, as they can trap Chandelure. Electric-types such as Rotom-C and Heliolisk form a good VoltTurn core with Infernape, as they threaten a lot of its checks. Furthermore, other strong U-turn users such as Mega Beedrill work well, as they can pressure and wear down opposing teams quickly. Levitate users and Flying-types, such as Hydreigon and Crobat, mitigate Infernape's weakness to Ground-type attacks. Flying-types are not just great partners for Infernape, but they also threaten it, so Pokemon capable of switching into the likes of Mega Aerodactyl and Tornadus are heavily recommended. Bulky Water-types, such as Empoleon and Swampert, fulfill that role. Swampert and Suicune do not just help with that, but they also take care of opposing Fire-types looking to take advantage of an Infernape locked into Flare Blitz. While Forretress carries some similar checks to Infernape, its ability to lay down Spikes is useful and it can provide opportunities for Infernape to enter the field thanks to its slow Volt Switch. Finally, Fairy-types such as Sylveon appreciate Infernape's ability to break through bulky Steel-types.

Moves Flare Blitz and Close Combat serve as Infernape's strongest physical Fire- and Fighting-type STAB moves, attaining great coverage together. U-turn allows Infernape to get momentum and bring in a teammate, which is especially useful for a Choice Scarf user. Stone Edge is preferred in the last slot, as it is Infernape's only means of covering Chandelure and Noivern with one move, and it also hits Flying-types such as Crobat and Mega Aerodactyl harder than Flare Blitz does. Earthquake still covers Chandelure while giving Infernape a better alternative against Nidoqueen, Entei, Darmanitan, Tentacruel, and Mega Ampharos. Set Details A Choice Scarf allows Infernape to outpace the entire unboosted metagame, as well as all other viable Choice Scarf users. Even Pokemon such as Kabutops and Stoutland under rain or sand, respectively, are outsped by Choice Scarf Infernape. The EVs and nature listed make Infernape as fast as possible while maximizing its Attack, allowing it to get the most out of Choice Scarf. Blaze is the preferred ability, as none of the listed moves are boosted by Iron Fist. Blaze can be helpful for letting Infernape go out with a bang with a boosted Flare Blitz once its HP has dropped low enough. Usage Tips As with any Pokemon holding a Choice item, prediction is key to success, as using an incorrect move will cost you momentum, giving the opponent a free turn. Use U-turn early-game to get momentum on the opponent, breaking Focus Sashes of lead Pokemon such as Froslass and scoring useful chip damage against offensive Pokemon. Use Infernape's STAB moves at the most appropriate times, as they both have notable drawbacks; Flare Blitz has recoil which wears Infernape down, and Close Combat reduces its defenses, making it much easier to take out afterwards. Because Infernape is both the fastest viable user of Choice Scarf in the tier and often unpredictable, Infernape can surprise a lot of opposing Choice Scarf users, especially if they are used in the lead position. Even though this Infernape set can function as a cleaner late-game, especially against offensive teams, it is significantly weaker than any of its other sets, so team support will be heavily required to weaken bulkier Pokemon for Infernape. Team Options Infernape's great versatility will keep the opponent guessing until its set is revealed, so take advantage of having other Pokemon commonly known to hold Choice Scarf, such as Hydreigon, Mienshao, and Rotom-C, on your team. Pokemon with access to U-turn or Volt Switch, such as Crobat, Mega Beedrill, Hydreigon, Heliolisk, and Forretress, can form VoltTurn cores with this Infernape set, threatening opposing teams offensively while keeping up momentum. Pokemon such as Roserade, Heliolisk, Rotom-C, Shaymin, and Mega Ampharos can threaten bulky Water- and Ground-types that commonly switch into Infernape. Walls such as Arcanine, Gligar, Granbull, Cresselia, and Aromatisse can also stop this set easily, so partners such as Heracross, Suicune, Mega Blastoise, Nidoking, and Nidoqueen are also vastly appreciated for breaking through these Pokemon.

Moves Swords Dance allows Infernape to function as a setup sweeper, dealing serious damage to teams after a boost. Flare Blitz is Infernape's strongest physical Fire-type STAB move. If Flare Blitz's recoil is unappealing, Fire Punch can be used, though even with Iron Fist, it is weak, reaching a mere 90 Base Power, which pales in comparison to Flare Blitz's 120. Close Combat is Infernape's best physical Fighting-type STAB move, allowing it to break through Pokemon such as Empoleon, Krookodile, and Umbreon while attaining good coverage alongside Flare Blitz. Mach Punch can be used to give Infernape some leverage against offensive teams, taking out faster threats such as Mega Absol and Choice Scarf Hydreigon. Earthquake hits Mega Ampharos, Nidoqueen, and Tentacruel much harder than any of Infernape's other moves while still giving it a means to beat Chandelure. Thunder Punch is boosted by Iron Fist and allows Infernape to hit Water-types that resist both of its STAB moves, such as Jellicent, Slowking, and Tentacruel. However, a neutral Close Combat will hit all other Water-types just as hard as a super effective Iron Fist-boosted Thunder Punch, so use Thunder Punch only if Mach Punch is used over Close Combat or if these Pokemon are an issue for your team. Set Details The given nature and EVs make Infernape as fast as possible while maximizing Attack, allowing it to hit as hard as possible. Iron Fist gives a boost to Mach Punch and Thunder Punch and thus should be used only if either of those moves is chosen; otherwise, Blaze is the preferred ability. Life Orb gives Infernape the power it needs to break walls and sweep after a boost, as it is too weak otherwise. Usage Tips Infernape's versatility will keep the opponent guessing which set it is running until Infernape uses a move, so preserve Infernape until a decent opportunity arises, even if it means bluffing a different set. Given how much damage Infernape takes from entry hazards, Life Orb recoil, and recoil from Flare Blitz, it won't have many chances to safely set up. Swords Dance is best used when forcing a switch, though it can also be used once Infernape is brought in safely, such as on a resisted hit, after a Pokemon has fainted, or from a slow U-turn or Volt Switch. Infernape can be used early-game phase as a hole puncher, possibly going for a sweep or softening up the opposing team for its partners during the mid- and late-game phases. If using Mach Punch, Infernape should be handled more carefully, only setting up once defensive Pokemon are weakened and faster Pokemon that can take a +2 Mach Punch have been removed. To some degree, Infernape can also serve as a lure to bulky Water-types, inviting them to switch in and being capable of scoring a 2HKO on Alomomola, Suicune, and defensive Swampert after a single boost with Close Combat. However, prior damage will be required to ensure they are KOed. Team Options Chesnaught, Roserade, Forretress, Rhyperior, Swampert, Froslass, and Tentacruel can stack entry hazards to weaken the opposing team, giving Infernape an easier time sweeping. Pokemon that benefit from bulky Water-types being weakened, such as Krookodile, Mienshao, Haxorus, Mega Aerodactyl, and Snorlax, are examples of partners that synergize offensively with this Infernape set due to its ability to lure in and deal with bulky Water-types. Lastly, wallbreakers such as Porygon-Z, Haxorus, Heliolisk, Heracross, Nidoking, Roserade, and Krookodile can soften up defensive Pokemon for Infernape.

Moves The choice between which of Infernape's Fire-type STAB moves to use is dependent on what you would like Infernape to deal with. Fire Blast lacks the painful recoil Flare Blitz has and deals much more damage to Mega Aggron, Aromatisse, and Granbull. Flare Blitz, however, has perfect accuracy, is bolstered by Infernape's more heavily invested Attack stat, and allows Infernape to break through Florges. Close Combat is Infernape's strongest and most reliable Fighting-type STAB move and is a must on this set to beat Pokemon such as Snorlax and Umbreon. Grass Knot allows Infernape to deal serious damage to Water-types such as Suicune and Swampert, which would otherwise stop this set flat in its tracks. Earthquake hits Tentacruel, Nidoqueen, and Mega Ampharos harder than any of Infernape's other options and also hits Chandelure. Stone Edge also covers Chandelure and is a stronger option against Entei and Rotom-H, but it also allows Infernape to hit Flying-types such as Mega Aerodactyl, Crobat, and Noivern trying to switch in on one of Infernape's STAB moves. Mach Punch is a useful priority move, allowing Infernape to pick off some faster threats, such as Choice Scarf Hydreigon. U-turn can be used to allow Infernape to get momentum, but it should only be used if running a VoltTurn team, as Life Orb recoil and entry hazards wear Infernape down badly enough already. Lastly, Hidden Power Ice allows Infernape to heavily damage to Gligar and Nidoqueen. Set Details The EV spread listed allows Infernape to 2HKO Suicune with Grass Knot after Stealth Rock damage while maximizing Speed, with the remaining EVs placed into Attack to bolster the power of Infernape's physical moves. A Naive nature allows Infernape to function as a mixed attacker while maximizing Speed, and lets Infernape take priority moves a bit better than it would if it were using a Hasty nature. However, a Hasty nature can be used to allow Infernape to take resisted special attacks, such as Hydreigon's Dark Pulse, a bit more easily. Blaze is the preferred ability, as Iron Fist is useless on this set unless Mach Punch is used. Life Orb allows Infernape to deal as much damage as possible while switching moves. Usage Tips This set takes full advantage of Infernape's broad coverage that allows it to hit as many Pokemon as possible, so tailor the moves to cover any defensive Pokemon your team has trouble with. Infernape can serve as a lure for certain Pokemon; bulky Water-types such as Suicune and Swampert can be caught off-guard by Grass Knot, while Tentacruel can be beaten by Earthquake. Damage from Life Orb recoil and entry hazards will wear Infernape down gradually, so bring Infernape in when it can wreak as much havoc as possible and make every move count. Infernape's great Speed and offensive presence allow it to also function as a cleaner against offensive teams late-game, and Mach Punch allows Infernape to excel in this role. Even though Infernape is a mixed wallbreaker, certain defensive Pokemon will stop it no matter what moves it uses; Arcanine, Alomomola, Cresselia, and Gligar are roadblocks for Infernape that should be left up to teammates. Rocky Helmet variants of the former two Pokemon are especially bothersome for Infernape, as they can wear Infernape down even more easily just by switching in on it. Team Options As Infernape can serve as a lure for bulky Water-types, Pokemon that appreciate them removed, such as Mienshao, Krookodile, Mega Beedrill, Mega Swampert, Mega Absol, Mega Aerodactyl, Lucario, and Feraligatr, can be paired with it to form an offensive core. Pokemon that have access to entry hazards, such as Froslass, Swampert, Forretress, Chesnaught, Roserade, Nidoqueen, and Empoleon, can support Infernape by making it easier to wear Pokemon down. If Infernape forgoes Earthquake and Stone Edge in order to use Mach Punch, partners to deal with Chandelure as well as Tentacruel, Noivern, Crobat, and Mega Aerodactyl are a necessity. Mega Aerodactyl, Doublade, Empoleon, Krookodile, and Suicune are a few examples of partners that can check most of these Pokemon for Infernape.

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

Moves Fake Out provides Infernape's teammates with more leeway to safely use their moves on the first turn. Overheat grants Infernape a strong Fire-type STAB attack that is capable of OHKOing the majority of Grass-, Bug-, Ice-, and Steel-types. Close Combat acts as a secondary STAB move primarily for Infernape to handle Rock- and Normal-types. Quick Guard is one of Infernape's niches, being able to block priority moves used against your side of the field such as Fake Out and Prankster Thunder Wave for a turn. If you feel Quick Guard is unneeded, however, Protect is a viable option to avoid unnecessary damage and to prevent double targeting as a means of dealing with Infernape's Focus Sash. Set Details A Focus Sash is used because Infernape is frail, and allowing it to take at least one hit means it doesn't struggle to get off its moves before being KOed. Blaze is the chosen ability, since it powers up Overheat when at low health, and this is a likely occurrence with Focus Sash. Note that Iron Fist does not boost the power of Close Combat, despite the implication. Maximum Speed EVs and a Naive nature are used to ensure that Infernape outspeeds as many foes as possible, most notably allowing it to Speed tie with other base 108 Speed Pokemon such as Terrakion and Virizion. A Naive nature is used over Hasty because most priority moves like Sucker Punch and Fake Out are physical. 100 Special Attack EVs are used to guarantee the OHKO on 4 HP Mega Metagross with Overheat. The remaining EVs are placed into Attack to boost the damage of Close Combat. Usage Tips Infernape is best used in the lead position to provide Fake Out support for its allies on the first turn. When considering which target to use Fake Out on, note that your opponent is likely to be completely aware of what the most obvious play is and will therefore try to outmaneuver you by using Protect. Therefore, using Fake Out on the target least likely to use Protect can be an effective means to prevent this. Infernape can't switch in on any attacks, since its defensive typing is poor, so wait until you're given a free opportunity to switch in. Switching Infernape out in order to preserve Fake Out for the late-game can be valuable to put pressure on your opponent at that time. Team Options Infernape has particularly great synergy with Gardevoir, as Gardevoir resists Psychic-type moves and Infernape deals with Steel-types that give Gardevoir trouble such as Aegislash and Heatran. Gardevoir also enjoys the free space that Fake Out provides. Rotom-W also has amazing synergy with Infernape, being immune to Ground-type moves and beating Ground- and Water-types. In return, Infernape is able to beat Grass-types for Rotom-W. Setup Pokemon such as Tailwind and Substitute users appreciate Infernape's Fake Out support in order to get off their moves. Users of powerful spread attacks such as Landorus-T, Mega Charizard Y, and Tyranitar also appreciate Fake Out support, as this can neutralize the Pokemon on the opposing side that would be the biggest threat to them. The damage dealt by spread moves can also help put the opposing Pokemon into KO range of Infernape's attacks. Wide Guard users such as Aegislash and Swampert are good teammates, since Infernape resists almost no spread attacks and is weak to Earthquake and Aerilate Hyper Voice. Blocking spread moves is also beneficial because they make it easier to break Infernape's Focus Sash.

Moves Stealth Rock allows Infernape to break the omnipresent Focus Sash and put pressure on the opposing team in general, which is extremely useful for setup Pokemon such as Mega Salamence so that a foe's Focus Sash or Sturdy does not ruin a potential sweep. Rock Tomb can be used to OHKO the threats that resist Infernape's STAB moves such as Talonflame, Volcarona, and Mega Charizard Y and slow down a faster threat such as Thundurus so Infernape can KO it the following turn before it can finish off with Thunderbolt. Close Combat is Infernape's most reliable Fighting STAB move, OHKOing Mega Kangaskhan and Greninja and 2HKOing Ferrothorn and Normal-types like Porygon2 and Chansey. Encore is the best move to use in the last slot. Not only does it prevent Infernape from getting set up on, but it also locks the foe into a move, whether it be attacking or non-attacking, so that the next team member can potentially have a free turn. Overheat is Infernape's most powerful Fire-type STAB move, easily OHKOing Steel-types such as Ferrothorn, Mega Scizor, and Mega Mawile. It is preferred over Flare Blitz because it is a non-contact move that will not be affected by Intimidate or King's Shield, not to mention that Flare Blitz's unnecessary residual damage from self-recoil, Rough Skin and Iron Barbs, or Rocky Helmet makes it counterproductive with Focus Sash. Will-O-Wisp is viable in the last slot, as it can be used to cripple and soften the damage from physical attackers, notably Garchomp, Landorus-T, and Azumarill. Set Details A Jolly nature along with full investment in Attack and Speed is a must on Infernape, allowing it to be as fast as possible while still maximizing its damage output. The remaining 4 EV points should be allocated to Special Defense so that Porygon2 does not get a boost in Special Attack from Download. A Naive nature should be used if you decide to run Overheat in the last slot so that the move will not be hindered by a lower Special Attack stat. It is important to note that maximum Attack should be run even with a Naive nature to ensure the best chance at OHKOing Mega Kangaskhan. Focus Sash is a must on Infernape, allowing it to function effectively as a lead either by getting Stealth Rock up or using Encore before going down to a super effective attack. Blaze goes well with Focus Sash, as Infernape is guaranteed to survive a hit, significantly increasing the power of Overheat at low health. Usage Tips Stealth Rock leads such as Infernape are normally only found on very offensive teams, since balance and stall teams do not need something that just gets entry hazards up and faints. Offensive teams, on the other hand, appreciate having Stealth Rock on the opposing side or a foe locked into a move via Encore to create the necessary opportunities to set up safely. Infernape is normally used as a dedicated lead, since you want get Stealth Rock up as soon as possible or just Encore something for your next Pokemon to set up. That being said, you can use Team Preview to your advantage, since the opponent will more than likely think about having to face Infernape in the lead matchup by sending in something that can counter it, such as Mega Sableye. Therefore, in matchups where Stealth Rock isn't necessary, it might be wise to bench Infernape entirely to avoid situations where you cannot afford to be effectively one Pokemon down. It is usually safe to go for Stealth Rock in common lead matchups such as against Garchomp, Landorus-T, and Mamoswine so that you can Encore them into their own Stealth Rock or Earthquake, allowing your Flying-type to come in safely next turn. However, be careful when facing Mamoswine, as the combination of Earthquake + Ice Shard will finish off Infernape unless it is running Mach Punch. Breloom is another lead that Infernape struggles with, as it threatens to put something to sleep right away due to its Focus Sash being in tact, while Mach Punch is only a 2HKO; therefore, breaking its Focus Sash is Infernape's optimal play. When you're going up against Greninja, Rock Tomb should be used over Close Combat in the event Greninja uses Shadow Sneak, breaks Infernape's Focus Sash, and proceeds to finish it off with a Water- or Psychic-type STAB move. As lead Rotom tends to carry Choice items, they might be worth scouting for by switching into your Mega Pokemon. Otherwise, it is generally preferred to 2HKO it with Close Combat. Focus Sash can be utilized not only to get Stealth Rock up but also to just go for the 2HKO with Close Combat on threats such as Porygon2 and Chansey if your team really appreciates one of them being gone. Team Options Mega Salamence is one of the best partners for Infernape in terms of synergy, as it can easily set up on a foe locked into Earthquake and appreciates Infernape's Stealth Rock, while Infernape easily eliminates the Rock- and Ice-types that may cause Mega Salamence trouble such as Tyranitar, Greninja, and Weavile. Mega Charizard X, Volcarona, and Dragonite are other great offensive sweepers that appreciate Infernape in the same manner as Mega Salamence does. Greninja beats the Ground-, Dragon-, Flying-, and Psychic-types that Infernape struggles with, such as Landorus-T, Garchomp, Thundurus, and Slowbro, with its impressive coverage and appreciates Stealth Rock for breaking any potential Focus Sashes. Azumarill can threaten every Dragon- and Ground-type that Infernape struggles with, including Garchomp, Mega Salamence, Landorus-T, and Hippowdon. Infernape can also lock these threats in a non-damaging move with Encore so that Azumarill has a chance to set up Belly Drum, as well as eliminate Grass- and Steel-types for Azumarill such as Serperior, Ferrothorn, and Mega Scizor. Suicune is another Water-type that can comfortably set up on Mega Sableye, something that Infernape really struggles with and cannot break through, while also being able to deal with the aforementioned Dragon- and Ground-types due to its excellent bulk and defensive typing. Togekiss is another Fairy-type that is excellent at walling Dragon-types such as Garchomp and Dragonite, and it is able to cripple foes further when running Thunder Wave or Trick and can easily switch into Choice-locked Earthquake. In return, Infernape deals with the Rock- and Ice-types that Togekiss might struggle with such as Tyranitar, Ice Beam Greninja, and Weavile. Grass-types such as Serperior can easily set up on the Water-types that wall Infernape, such as Rotom-W, Suicune, and Slowbro. Serperior can also cripple faster switch-ins with Glare, such as Mega Gengar and Blaziken, while also being able to comfortably come in Breloom's Spore. Raikou, Rotom-W, and Thundurus lessen the pressure on Infernape by reliably checking Flying-types such as Talonflame, so Infernape does not always have to rely on its Focus Sash to deal with it, as well as switching into Thunder Wave. Rotom-W is notable for being able to wall both Landorus-T and Mamoswine, two threats Infernape really struggles to deal with. Mega Gengar can trap and eliminate an foe crippled by Encore when the opportunity arises, such as using Disable on Suicune's Scald, forcing it to use Struggle.

Infernape's stats and movepool scream mixed attacker, which this set capitalizes on. In general, Fake Out is a great move, providing a guaranteed flinch as well as damage, which most teams love to have. Close Combat provides powerful physical STAB, and works well with Focus Sash, allowing Blaze to activate more easily. Heat Wave is a great STAB spread move, though the meager 100 (75 when hitting multiple Pokemon) Base Power can be off-putting. As an alternative, Overheat packs enough firepower to roast 4 HP Zapdos with only a Blaze boost (Life Orb not needed), and does around 50% to the same Zapdos at -2, when a Life Orb is equipped. The last moveslot is preferential, as Infernape has many options. Protect is a staple move that keeps Infernape safe from faster Fake Outs, keeping its Focus Sash intact. Encore can punish Pokemon that try to guard themselves with Protect, locking them into a useless Protect for the next few turns, and allows you to focus on the cripple's partner. Hidden Power Ice hits Pokemon such as Dragonite and Salamence who otherwise wall this set, and provides nice coverage overall. The EVs listed guarantee that Infernape will OHKO 4 HP / 4 Def Terrakion not holding Focus Sash or Chople Berry, as well as OHKO 252 HP Chople Berry Tyranitar 40% of the time if Infernape is using Life Orb. If you want to drop some Speed to make room for more Attack EVs, some good benchmarks to consider are 236 EVs, for base 105 Pokemon such as Mienshao, and 212 EVs, for Garchomp and everything slower. Infernape especially loves Drought Ninetales and Sunny Day support, as sun support not only powers up its Fire-type STAB, but removes damaging weather, such as hail and sandstorm, that nullifies Infernape's Focus Sash.

Fake Out provides immediate board pressure, guaranteeing a flinch and giving its partner a free turn. Overheat is Infernape's strongest Fire-type move, allowing it to KO common Metagross sets while not caring about the Attack drops from opposing Landorus-T. Close Combat serves as Infernape's primary physical STAB move, hitting a good amount of the metagame for neutral damage. Due to its already pitiful bulk, Infernape does not care about the defensive drops, as it will fall to two attacks regardless. Its mixed offensive stats mean Infernape does not care about the Special Attack drops from Overheat when using Close Combat, either. Due to its frailty, Focus Sash allows Infernape to usually get off at least two moves before being knocked out. Furthermore, being at 1 HP activates Blaze, strengthening Overheat. With its high base Speed and Fake Out pressure, Encore can punish any untimely uses of Protect from the opponent. In addition, Encore can lock slow setup Pokemon such as Calm Mind Suicune, Calm Mind Cresselia, and Substitute Heatran as well as passive Pokemon such as Will-O-Wisp Rotom-Wash and Jellicent into their respective moves. 52 Special Attack EVs guarantee an OHKO on standard maximum HP Metagross with Overheat, while maximum Speed with a Naive nature allows Infernape to use Fake Out before Liepard. The remaining 204 EVs are invested in Attack to maximize Infernape's physical output. Other Options Feint punishes opponents that use Protect to stall out the turn by breaking through it and allowing Infernape's partner to secure an unexpected KO. Additionally, Feint's high priority allows it to pick up KOs on very low HP targets before they can move. Endeavor can be used after Focus Sash leaves Infernape at 1 HP to bring a bulky target down to 1 HP, making it easy for a partner to pick it off. Helping Hand can provide utility in any board state, allowing its partner to get a surprise KO. Fire Gem is an option over Focus Sash, enabling Overheat to KO specially defensive Metagross and Amoonguss. Common Partners Latios, Tornadus-I, and Thundurus are great partners, as they appreciate Infernape's ability to threaten Tyranitar and Heatran with Close Combat and Metagross with Overheat, foes they usually struggle against. In return, they provide crucial speed control; Tornadus-I and Thundurus can check opposing Landorus-T with Defiant-boosted Acrobatics and Hidden Power Ice, respectively, while Latios can check opposing Latios with Draco Meteor. Rain teams and Water-types such as Rotom-Wash and Jellicent pair nicely with Infernape, since it can easily dispatch annoying Grass-types such as Amoonguss and Ferrothorn, which are usually thorns in their sides. Checks & Counters Faster offensive threats such as Latios and Tornadus-I are major issues, as they naturally outspeed Infernape and can secure a KO before it can move, often forcing Infernape to switch out or use Protect. Naturally bulky Water-types such as Jellicent, Suicune, and Rotom-Wash, as well as Cresselia, can comfortably tank Infernape's Close Combat and Overheat while KOing back with their STAB moves; Landorus-T reduces Infernape's physical damage with Intimidate and threatens a KO back with Earthquake. Politoed and rain sweepers shut down Infernape; rain hampers Infernape's Fire-type attacks, and common Kingdra and Ludicolo sets will outspeed and KO it before it can move. Infernape's poor bulk makes it vulnerable to priority moves such as Mach Punch, Bullet Punch, and Sucker Punch, which can easily pick it off once its Focus Sash has been consumed. However, common priority users like Conkeldurr, Metagross, and Bisharp are still threatened by a healthy Infernape's Overheat or Close Combat.

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.

Infernape's good Speed allows it to set up Stealth Rock quickly and reliably against nearly every lead while also being able to cause some damage later in the game, making it a good choice of lead for an offensive team. Stealth Rock is Infernape's best support move, and it is highly beneficial to Infernape's teammates, helping them to secure more KOs. U-turn allows Infernape to scout the opponent's team while breaking Deoxys-S's or Deoxys-A's Focus Sash, allowing you to go to a priority user or a faster Pokemon to finish them off. It is highly recommended to have either priority or a Choice Scarf user along with this Infernape to minimize the layers of entry hazards Deoxys-S or Deoxys-A is able to put down, lest your team be hacked apart by the combined damage from Stealth Rock and Spikes. Close Combat destroys Dialga and allows Infernape to 2HKO Kyogre leads, thanks to its Focus Sash protecting it from Surf. You lose to Choice Scarf Kyogre leads, however, as they are faster. Fire Blast destroys Scizor, Forretress, and Metagross leads, while 2HKOing Groudon. Overheat is also option if one wants the extra power for taking on threats, such as specially defensive Groudon. The EVs are the same as the previous set, since they allow Infernape to get the KOs on the necessary leads. Infernape will lose to Darkrai leads due to Dark Void, so carrying a sleep absorber on your team is recommended. Sleep Talk Kyogre is a good choice, since it also beats Ho-Oh, who will wall this Infernape set due to the lack of Stone Edge. Kyogre's rain will not hurt Infernape, as Fire Blast, which is negatively affected during rain, will still KO most of the targets it needs to. Having a priority user is also recommended to finish off leads who Infernape will U-turn out of, such as Mewtwo and Deoxys formes. Scizor is a particularly good choice, since it can also beat Choice Scarf Shaymin-S leads, whom Infernape loses to if Shaymin-S flinches it with Air Slash; Scizor can also Pursuit Mewtwo and Deoxys formes, should they switch out. Rayquaza benefits from the Stealth Rock laid down by Infernape, and it also has a strong priority move in Extreme Speed.

The use of Choice Band eliminates Life Orb recoil while still allowing Infernape to pose a huge offensive threat. The main draw of this set is Flare Blitz, which when coupled with the sunlight, can 2HKO almost everything in Ubers. Although the recoil will quickly KO Infernape, this set is more designed to be a hole puncher than a sweeper. Provided the weather is sunny and Stealth Rock is up, Infernape can OHKO Ho-Oh and 2HKO Lugia, most Giratina-O, Latias, Rayquaza, Latios, Impish Groudon, and Garchomp with Flare Blitz, despite the fact that most of those Pokemon resist Fire-type attacks! Flare Blitz will also OHKO any Steel-type Pokemon not named Heatran. Should Blaze be activated, Infernape's Flare Blitz can even 2HKO Palkia! Close Combat allows Infernape to OHKO Palkia after a layer of Stealth Rock and Spikes have been put down, and it 2HKOes even physically defensive variants of Kyogre. It also gives Infernape a back up sweeping attack in case the weather is not in its favor. U-turn allows Infernape to scout for counters, and it also deals enormous damage to Mewtwo, Latios, Latias, and Darkrai. Mach Punch allows Infernape to revenge kill Darkrai and Lucario. Groudon is highly recommended for use alongside this set because it provides the sunlight that makes Flare Blitz so deadly. Groudon can also help Infernape by paralyzing things such as Latias and Latios, allowing Infernape to 2HKO with its STAB moves before they can Recover off the damage or OHKO Infernape. Groudon can also set up Stealth Rock, which is absolutely required for this set for Infernape to grab the KOes mentioned previously. Giratina is the only Pokemon who can switch in on this set without any fear at all. Its huge HP means that Infernape will wear itself down quickly with recoil damage, and Shadow Claw only 5HKOes Giratina factoring in Leftovers. For this reason, packing a reliable Giratina counter is highly encouraged. Bulk Up Dialga is a good partner for Choice Band Infernape, as Giratina cannot do anything to it at all while Dialga can Bulk Up as much as it wants, Rest off Giratina's burns, and eventually KO Giratina with its powerful Outrage. Infernape can also help out Dialga by weakening Groudon. Flare Blitz will often do so much damage to Groudon that, at the cost of sacrificing Infernape, it will be left too weak to fight off Dialga. Aside from this, the same partners from the previous set also work well with this one. Unlike the other Infernape sets, Wobbuffet can be a serious problem, as it can switch into a Choiced Close Combat, Stone Edge, or Flare Blitz in the rain and threaten to KO Infernape with Counter. Unfortunately, because Wobbuffet has no true counters due to Shadow Tag, the best thing you can do is attempt to lure in Wobbuffet with mixed attackers that bluff a Choice Scarf, or use Close Combat sparingly early in the game.

Although somewhat tricky to set up, Infernape can become a viciously powerful offensive threat after just one Swords Dance, capable of OHKOing or 2HKOing everything in Ubers. Close Combat is the primary attack of this set, and will absolutely devastate any Pokemon who does not resist it, OHKOing foes such as Dialga, Palkia, Kyogre, Scizor, and many others. Stone Edge covers most Flying-types whom Infernape is likely to face. After a Swords Dance, Ho-Oh and Rayquaza are both OHKOed, as is Lugia after Stealth Rock damage. Mach Punch prevents Infernape from being revenge killed by Choice Scarf Dialga, and also gives Infernape some defensive utility as a form of soft counterplay to Darkrai. Flare Blitz can be used over Shadow Claw if one has sunlight support from Groudon. In said sunlight, Flare Blitz will still 2HKO Latias, Latios, and Giratina-O, and it also OHKOes even defensive Mewtwo, something Shadow Claw can't always manage. However, the primary use of Flare Blitz is to OHKO Groudon after a Swords Dance, meaning it can no longer stop Infernape from sweeping. As for EVs, max Attack and Speed EVs are necessary for maximum sweeping potential. Jolly is preferred to Adamant, as the latter does not get any special KOs and Infernape really needs to outspeed as many things as it can, as it cannot take many hits. Life Orb gives Infernape a much needed power boost. Swords Dance Infernape's main issues are defensive Groudon, any faster Pokemon, and actually setting up. Wobbuffet is by far the best teammate for Swords Dance Infernape, since it can trap and kill most Groudon and Choice Scarf users while using Encore to give Infernape much needed opportunities to set up. Using Psychic-type Pokemon to bait Pursuit from Pokemon such as Tyranitar and Scizor is a good idea to help Infernape set up as well. Other than that, the same teammates from the Physical Mix Infernape set work very well with this one. Kyogre may seem like an odd partner for Infernape at first glance, but with Thunder Wave, it can cripple Latios, Latias, and Palkia switch-ins, thus allowing Infernape to break past them when it sets up later. If Infernape is not using Flare Blitz, Drizzle can actually help Infernape by letting it set up on Choiced Fire-type attacks.

Infernape's high Speed stat, large movepool, and decent offenses turn it into one of the most threatening mixed attackers and wallbreakers in the Uber tier. Once in, the flaming monkey will swiftly deliver a 2HKO to even the toughest of Uber walls, except Giratina. The set's play style is simple -- get Infernape in on a Pokemon whom it can scare out or on a weak resisted attack and proceed to let loose. Close Combat is Infernape's main attack, and while one might think that it may be ineffective in Ubers with so many Psychic-types running around, it still absolutely mauls quite a few Pokemon. Blissey, Dialga, Tyranitar, and Heatran are all OHKOed, while Palkia, Garchomp, and Kyogre are all 2HKOed. Fire Blast KOes all Groudon after they have switched into Close Combat once, burns most Steel-types to a crisp, and 2HKOes Mewtwo. With Stealth Rock support, Lugia is KOed by a combination of Fire Blast and Stone Edge. Overheat is also a viable option. It almost always OHKOes Mewtwo if the sun is shining, and it will also OHKO Lugia after Stealth Rock damage provided Blaze is activated. Speaking of Blaze, with it activated, Infernape's Fire Blast/Overheat attacks will become quite deadly - the latter is so strong that it 2HKOes Naive Giratina-O after Stealth Rock damage! U-turn allows Infernape to scout the opposing team while also doing massive damage to the many Psychic-types, like Latias and Latios, who may want to switch in on Infernape. Stone Edge OHKOes Rayquaza and Ho-Oh without question, as well as also 2HKOing Lugia after Stealth Rock damage, just in case the weather is not favorable. This set has massive problems with Giratina, Giratina-O, Latias, and Latios. All four resist both of Infernape's STAB moves, do not take much from its other attacks, and can retaliate with their STAB Dragon-type moves. However, Latios and Latias must be wary of U-turn, which deals significant damage and also allows the Infernape user to bring in a counter for free. Also, note that slower variants of Latias are outsped, preventing them from effectively checking Infernape. Mewtwo is faster than Infernape and has a powerful Thunder with which to 2HKO Infernape. Physically defensive Kyogre can also come in on anything, bar Close Combat, and drown Infernape with Surf. Rayquaza also resists both of Infernape's STAB moves and has Extreme Speed to pick it off. Finally, any Choice Scarf user, such as Dialga, Palkia, and Garchomp, is extremely threatening to Infernape, as it can easily KO the flaming monkey before it gets a chance to react. Choice Scarf Dialga is an excellent answer to Giratina, Giratina-O, Rayquaza, Latios, Latias, and Mewtwo (although Dialga must watch out for potential Aura Spheres that might be aimed at Infernape), as it outspeeds and OHKOes all of them with Draco Meteor. Latias counters Kyogre very well, thanks to her superb bulk and powerful Thunder; she can also deal with both formes of Giratina if she has enough health. Scizor has U-turn and Bullet Punch to easily pick off Latios, Latias, Mewtwo, and Rayquaza locked into Outrage. Groudon provides sunlight to power up Fire Blast and it deals with most Rayquaza and Choice Scarf Garchomp very well with its high Defense stat. Wobbuffet's Shadow Tag ability and access to Counter and Mirror Coat allow it to trap and KO Choice Scarf users, as well as some Latios, Latias, and Mewtwo, quite easily. Infernape is rather hard to switch in because he is very frail. Wobbuffet is a good Pokemon to pair with Infernape since the blue blob can Encore stat boosting and status moves, which are rendered useless by Safeguard, to help Infernape get in safely. Using someone like Latias who attracts moves like Pursuit can also help Infernape get a free switch in. Getting it in on something it can scare out, such as Blissey, a Choice-user locked into a move Infernape resists, Forretress, Skarmory, Bronzong, or Tyranitar can also help. Infernape's good Speed and formidable offensive might means that he is a good choice to send out after one of your other teammates falls in battle.

Set Details Infernape is a common lead for offensive teams that need disruption and offensive pressure against Steel-types. Infernape matches up well against lead Metagross and Heatran. It can also disrupt the opponent's strategy with Fake Out flinching and Encore locking to enable teammates to safely make progress. However, Infernape is very frail and struggles against other common leads, including Cresselia and Gengar. The choice of moveset depends on team structure. Explosion spam teams prefer powerful Blaze-boosted Heat Waves after Focus Sash gets activated, along with 1 HP Endeavors and Feint to prevent an ally's Explosion being wasted on a foe using Protect. Otherwise, Overheat is a stronger single-target attack guaranteed to OHKO Metagross without Occa Berry, and Close Combat provides better coverage for foes like Heatran and Snorlax. Encore can seal endgames by locking foes into passive moves like Protect. Encore also combines well with Fake Out, essentially forcing the opponent to not use Protect for fear of getting Encore locked. Alternative final moves include Taunt to prevent Trick Room and U-turn to maintain momentum. Focus Sash is Infernape's only viable item and is required to patch up its frailty. As previously explained, it pairs nicely with Explosion spam strategies to activate Infernape's Blaze and 1 HP Endeavor. The Attack investment is enough to reliably 2HKO bulky Snorlax after Sitrus Berry recovery with Close Combat and OHKO offensive Bronzong with Overheat. If Infernape doesn't run Close Combat, then a simple spread of 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe with a Timid nature is preferred. A Speed-boosting nature is necessary to win Speed ties against opposing Infernape and beat maximum invested base 100s like Zapdos. Teambuilding Infernape is a great lead for offensive teams. It pairs well with Azelf and Choice Scarf Metagross, both of which can use Explosion reliably with Infernape's Feint support and ability to check Steel-types. As mentioned above, once Focus Sash is activated, Infernape becomes an offensive menace with Blaze-boosted Fire-type attacks and 1 HP Endeavors. Infernape can also work as a lead alongside Dragon-types like Latios or Salamence. Between Dragon-, Fire-, and Fighting-type coverage, nothing in the metagame resists all 3 and the offensive output can be oppressive. Infernape struggles against priority users like Bullet Punch Metagross and Extreme Speed Togekiss, which can pick it off easily once Focus Sash activates. Dragon-types like Latios and Salamence resist both its STAB types and simply 2HKO it. Finally, Cresselia and Gengar defeat it on lead, especially if they're running Icy Wind.