In the ever-evolving landscape of competitive Pokémon battling, trainers constantly seek powerful and versatile additions to their teams. One such Pokémon that has captured the attention of many seasoned players is Dragapult. Renowned for its blistering speed and expansive movepool, Dragapult has become a staple on Smogon, the premier online Pokémon battling platform. In this guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies of Dragapult’s competitive viability, exploring optimal movesets and strategies to help you harness its full potential.
Understanding Dragapult
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of movesets and strategies, let’s take a moment to understand what makes Dragapult such a formidable force in the competitive scene. As a Dragon/Ghost-type Pokémon, Dragapult boasts an excellent offensive typing, granting it access to powerful STAB (Same Type Attack Bonus) moves such as Draco Meteor and Shadow Ball. Furthermore, its impressive base 142 Speed stat makes it one of the fastest Pokémon in the game, allowing it to outspeed a vast majority of threats.
Dragapult Smogon Movesets
Choice Specs Attacker
One of the most popular Dragapult Smogon sets revolves around turning Dragapult into a fearsome special attacker using Choice Specs. This item boosts Dragapult’s Special Attack stat by 50%, allowing it to hit even bulkier opponents hard. Draco Meteor is the go-to STAB move, boasting immense power that few Pokémon can withstand. Shadow Ball provides coverage against Psychic- and Ghost-types, while Thunderbolt handles Water-types that may try to switch in.
Dragon Dance Sweeper
For trainers who prefer a more versatile and setup-oriented approach, a Dragon Dance set can be devastating. By boosting Dragapult’s Attack and Speed, this set transforms Dragapult into a potent physical sweeper. Dragon Claw is the primary STAB move here, with the ability to break through Dragon-resistant Pokémon. Phantom Force is an excellent Ghost-type move that allows Dragapult to avoid attacks on the turn it disappears, providing valuable setup opportunities. Fire Fang rounds out the set, dealing with Steel-types that would otherwise wall Dragapult.
Strategies for Dragapult on Smogon
Early Game Pressure
One of Dragapult’s greatest strengths lies in its ability to apply early-game pressure. With its high Speed stat and access to powerful STAB moves, Dragapult can force opponents into difficult situations from the get-go. Utilize Choice Specs sets to surprise and eliminate common threats, setting the tone for the rest of the match.
Pivot and Scout
Thanks to its high Speed, Dragapult excels as a pivot and scout. By using U-turn or Dragon Darts, Dragapult can gain momentum for your team, while also providing valuable information about the opponent’s switch-ins. This scouting ability is crucial for making informed decisions throughout the match.
Late Game Cleaner
As the match progresses, Dragapult’s Speed becomes even more valuable. With weakened opponents and potential setup opportunities, a Dragon Dance Dragapult can transform into a late-game cleaner, sweeping through the remaining Pokémon on the opposing team. Careful prediction and smart switch-ins are key to successfully utilizing Dragapult in this role.
Team Synergy with Dragapult
Fairy-Type Support
One of Dragapult’s main weaknesses is its vulnerability to Fairy-type moves. To counter this, consider adding a Fairy-type Pokémon to your team, such as Clefable or Mimikyu. These Pokémon can switch in on Fairy-type attacks aimed at Dragapult and provide support with their own diverse movepools.
Hazard Control
Stealth Rock and other entry hazards can wear down Dragapult and limit its ability to switch in and out freely. Including a Pokémon with hazard control, like a Defog user such as Corviknight or Mandibuzz, ensures that Dragapult can maintain its offensive presence throughout the match.
Conclusion
In the realm of competitive Pokémon battling on Smogon, Dragapult stands tall as a versatile and powerful option for any team. Whether you choose to go the route of a Choice Specs attacker or a Dragon Dance sweeper, Dragapult’s expansive movepool and blazing speed make it a force to be reckoned with. By understanding its strengths, implementing strategic movesets, and building a team that complements its weaknesses, you can unlock the full potential of Dragapult and soar to victory in the competitive arena. So, trainers, embrace the power of Dragapult on Smogon, and watch as it becomes the cornerstone of your winning strategy.