UU Latias

[OVERVIEW]

With its high Speed, good Special Attack, and excellent offensive typing, Latias is one of UU's most potent offensive Pokemon and is capable of threatening any playstyle with its variety of sets. Access to Calm Mind and the ability to viably use Z-Moves let it get past nearly any potential check or counter in the game, while its decent typing, great bulk, great ability, and access to reliable recovery all contribute to its great defensive utility. Latias also has great support options in Defog and Healing Wish. However, most UU teams manage to fit one of the many Pursuit users of the tier in Krookodile, Mega Aerodactyl, Metagross, Alolan Muk, Mega Absol, Scizor, or even Mega Beedrill, which can all easily remove Latias, though Latias can get around several of them with certain sets. Latias also tends to struggle against bulky Steel-types like Empoleon, Metagross, Scizor, Klefki, and Mega Steelix, but sets with Gigavolt Havoc or Life Orb Hidden Power Fire can get around these.

[SET]
name: Calm Mind
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Draco Meteor
move 3: Psychic
move 4: Recover / Hidden Power Fire
item: Dragonium Z / Life Orb
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

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

Calm Mind turns Latias into a wallbreaker that can power through Pokemon like Sylveon, Togekiss, and Gliscor and makes Latias harder for Pokemon like Mega Sceptile and Choice Scarf Hydreigon to revenge kill. Despite dropping Latias's Special Attack, Draco Meteor is Latias's best STAB move, letting it destroy any non-Fairy-type, especially combined with Dragonium Z. Psychic lets Latias hit Pokemon like Hippowdon, Gliscor, Cobalion, and Volcanion hard without dropping its Special Attack. Psyshock is also an option to hit most Fairy-types slightly harder and beat certain Calm Mind users like Raikou, but is generally inferior due to its lower damage output on most of the tier.

The last moveslot depends on what Latias's team needs it to do. Recover lets Latias stay healthy in order to check Pokemon like Volcanion and Gliscor and lets it easily beat defensive Fairy-types one-on-one. On a more offensive team that can't afford to give up momentum to Steel-types, Hidden Power Fire KOes offensive Scizor without a boost, OHKOes bulky Scizor after a Calm Mind, and does heavy damage to Mega Steelix, Cobalion, and non-Assault Vest Metagross.

Set Details
========

Latias needs maximum Speed and Special Attack to outspeed Pokemon like Infernape and Cobalion and hit as hard as possible. Dragonium Z lets Latias hit any non-Fairy type with an extremely powerful attack without dropping its Special Attack. +1 Devastating Drake OHKOes Hippowdon and Gliscor, OHKOes offensive Scizor after Stealth Rock damage, and does upwards of 80% to Assault Vest Alolan Muk. Psychium Z is also an option, but +1 Shattered Psyche doesn't OHKO any defensive Fairy-types like Sylveon, and Latias beats them anyway if it avoids a critical hit. Unboosted Shattered Psyche does OHKO Cobalion, however. Life Orb can be used if another member of Latias's team would rather hold a Z-Crystal. Soul Dew is an option as well to avoid Life Orb recoil damage at the cost of some power.

Latias can also run Thunder over Hidden Power Fire or Psychic while holding Electrium Z. This allows it to OHKO Primarina and other offensive Water-types unboosted, OHKO Empoleon, physically defensive Klefki, and Togekiss at +1, and OHKO bulky Scizor at +1 with a small amount of prior damage.

Usage Tips
========

Latias should be used as an early- or mid-game wallbreaker, though it can also sweep teams that lack faster physical revenge killers. Use foes like Tentacruel and Hippowdon as opportunities to set up Calm Mind, but if the opponent has something like Mega Steelix, Assault Vest Metagross, or Assault Vest Muk, it's best to get prior damage on them before setting up. If you opt for Hidden Power Fire or Thunder over Recover, avoid switching Latias recklessly into Pokemon like Volcanion if possible. Latias should often be used to weaken or beat defensive Fairy-types like Sylveon and Klefki, especially if it runs Recover to reliably beat the former.

Team Options
========

Calm Mind Latias fits best on bulky offense teams that can utilize its breaking potential and unique set of resistances. Fighting-types such as Conkeldurr, Cobalion, and Buzzwole capitalize on the bulky Steel-types and Pursuit users that force Latias out or beat it, and they also appreciate Latias's ability to wear down or KO Fairy-types. Spikes dig into the Steel-types that give Latias trouble; Klefki is a great Spikes user that also switches into several Latias checks like Mega Beedrill, Mega Sceptile, and Sylveon. Pokemon like Mega Beedrill, Mega Aerodactyl, and offensive Scizor capitalize on Latias's ability to destroy opposing Steel-types. Latias works well with other common offensive staples such as Choice Scarf Krookodile, Primarina, Mega Blastoise, Nidoking, and Xurkitree.

[SET]
name: Life Orb
move 1: Draco Meteor
move 2: Psychic / Thunderbolt
move 3: Hidden Power Fire / Defog
move 4: Recover / Healing Wish / Defog
item: Life Orb
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

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

Draco Meteor deals good damage to most neutral targets and even does over 50% to Cobalion and offensive Scizor. Psychic does decent damage to offensive Pokemon as well without dropping Latias's Special Attack. Thunderbolt hits several Dragon-resistant threats found on offense, such as Primarina, Togekiss, and Empoleon harder than Psychic, and is more useful against other Pokemon like Volcanion. However, dropping Psychic leaves Latias completely blanked by Sylveon and Florges and forces it to use the risky Draco Meteor against Ground-types, Raikou, and Xurkitree.

Latias's last two moveslots are team-dependent. Hidden Power Fire lets Latias OHKO any Scizor variant, with only specially defensive ones needing Stealth Rock damage to OHKO. It also lets Latias 3HKO Mega Steelix, Metagross, and specially defensive Klefki. Recover or Healing Wish is the best option for the last moveslot depending on Latias's team. Recover is best on bulky offense and balance teams that need Latias's ability to check certain threats, while Healing Wish works better on faster-paced offensive teams where Latias won't necessarily need Recover. Defog is also an option in case Latias's team can't fit entry hazard removal elsewhere. However, Latias is usually better off playing a more active role by firing off powerful hits and appreciates it if partners like Empoleon or Togekiss could take care of Defog instead.

Set Details
========

Maximum Special Attack investment and Life Orb let Latias 2HKO a large portion of the metagame and threaten most offensive Pokemon. Maximum Speed with a Timid nature is needed to outspeed Pokemon like Terrakion. Levitate lets Latias check Pokemon like Hippowdon, Gliscor, and Mega Swampert and also avoid Spikes damage.

Usage Tips
========

Simply bring Latias in on one of the many Pokemon it checks and fire off powerful hits, hitting predicted Steel-type switch-ins with Hidden Power Fire and staying healthy with Recover as needed. However, don't recklessly switch Latias in on Pokemon like Terrakion, Conkeldurr, and Raikou, which can potentially OHKO it on the switch or with a boosted attack. With Healing Wish, play Latias carefully, as it's usually not used with Recover. Latias usually won't be able to do more than fire off one or two attacks before using Healing Wish. Prioritize Latias's health particularly if a faster Pursuit user like Mega Aerodactyl or Choice Scarf Krookodile will most likely try to pick it off.

Team Options
========

Life Orb Latias fits on playstyles ranging from balance that needs Latias's resistances or entry hazard removing capabilities to hyper offense that could use a reasonably fast pivot, wallbreaker, and Healing Wish user. Life Orb Latias with Recover and/or Defog is a great fit for almost any balance or bulky offense, pairing well with bulkier Stealth Rock users like Mega Swampert, Cobalion, Empoleon, and Hippowdon. Common balance Pokemon like Amoonguss, bulky Scizor, Gliscor, and Metagross are good partners as well, bringing anything from defensive synergy to pivot support to the table. There's really no limit to the number of Pokemon on balance and bulky offense teams that appreciate the support that Latias provides.

On more offensive teams, Latias will most likely be using three attacks + Healing Wish, though Defog can work if it's absolutely necessary. Partners like Talonflame, Cobalion, Rain Dance Mega Swampert, Scizor, and Venomoth become ridiculously threatening with Healing Wish support. In particular, Fighting-type sweepers like Cobalion, Terrakion, and Conkeldurr can receive a Healing Wish against Pokemon like Alolan Muk and Scizor and proceed to set up easily. On these teams, more offensive Stealth Rock users like Nidoqueen, Azelf, or Terrakion should be used. These teams also frequently use Mega Blastoise or Life Orb Starmie to clear entry hazards from their side without removing them from the opposing side.

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Draco Meteor
move 2: Psychic
move 3: Healing Wish
move 4: Trick
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

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

Draco Meteor is Latias's strongest move and is needed to do as much damage as possible to Pokemon like Mega Swampert, Talonflame, and Mega Aerodactyl. Psychic hits Pokemon like Cobalion, Mega Beedrill, and others for consistent damage. Healing Wish is a great move for Choice Scarf Latias, allowing it to heal a weakened teammate without forfeiting momentum. Trick lets Latias cripple something in matchups where its Choice Scarf isn't needed. Running Hidden Power Fire prevents Latias from being stopped cold by Scizor, but it doesn't do enough damage to other Steel-types to usually be worthwhile and is a terrible move to be locked into.

Set Details
========

Full Special Attack investment allows Latias to maximize its damage output against Pokemon it tries to revenge kill. Maximum Speed with a Timid nature lets it outspeed any other viable Choice Scarf user as well as Jolly Mega Swampert under rain. Levitate provides Latias with a useful Ground immunity.

Usage Tips
========

Latias should primarily be used as a revenge killer, but without a damage-boosting item, it needs prior damage on several of its targets. For example, it can't reliably KO Mega Aerodactyl after Stealth Rock damage. Latias is also prone to being set up on, especially after using Draco Meteor. Ensure that a teammate or Latias itself can revenge kill Pokemon that try to take advantage of a locked move.

In matchups against offense, Latias will usually be limited to revenge killing one Pokemon before using Healing Wish. In matchups against bulkier teams, it may be able to use Trick to remove its Choice Scarf early on and come onto the field somewhat more frequently. Latias should often be double switching out instead of using a weak move on a Steel-type switch-in. This prevents Latias from losing too much momentum, gives Pokemon like Mamoswine fewer opportunities to come in and wreak havoc, and helps preserve Latias against teams with Pursuit trappers. Healing Wish can also be used to prevent Defog and pivot into a teammate that can threaten to KO the Defog user or set up on it.

Team Options
========

Choice Scarf Latias fits best on offensive teams, especially hyper offense, that need its Speed and can capitalize on Healing Wish support. Offensive teammates like Conkeldurr, Cobalion, Nidoking, Mega Swampert, and Mega Aerodactyl are examples of offensive Pokemon that appreciate Healing Wish support. These Pokemon also can be double switched into Steel-types that try to come in on Latias. Other sweepers that work well on these teams are Cloyster, Venomoth, Scizor, and Hawlucha. Pokemon like Primarina, Nidoking, and Raikou are other Pokemon that are prone to getting worn down and love having a second opportunity to come in at full health. Suicide leads with Stealth Rock, such as Azelf and Terrakion, work well on offensive teams with Choice Scarf Latias. If Latias can cripple a Defog user like Togekiss or Mandibuzz, it can be easy to keep Stealth Rock up.

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

Latias has a few other support options such as Tailwind and Thunder Wave, but they are much more situational than any of Latias's main options. Surf can be used to 2HKO Mega Steelix, and Ice Beam can be used to OHKO Gliscor; both work reasonably well alongside Thunderbolt on the Life Orb set. However, Latias won't be able to hit other Steel-types hard without Hidden Power Fire. Grass Knot can be used on the Choice Scarf set to reliably outspeed and OHKO Mega Swampert in rain. Choice Specs is a decent set, but Latias hates being locked into its STAB moves due to their drawbacks and immunities, making Life Orb a generally better set. A set with maximum HP, Calm Mind, Stored Power, and Recover can be used. Refresh as the last move on such a set destroys any stall that lacks a Dark-type or Mega Steelix, while Dragon Pulse or Draco Meteor at least gives Latias a decent attack right off the bat. This set is rather situational and falls flat against any remotely offensive team, though.

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

**Steel-types**: Most Steel-types can take Latias's STAB moves well. Mega Steelix is only 3HKOed by Life Orb-boosted Hidden Power Fire and 2HKOes back with Heavy Slam. Offensive Scizor, whether Choice Band, Choice Scarf, or Swords Dance, is OHKOed by Hidden Power Fire and +1 Z-Moves, but can take any other attack and KO in return. Bulky Metagross is only threatened by Life Orb-boosted Hidden Power Fire and +1 Gigavolt Havoc and can threaten Latias with a strong Meteor Mash or Pursuit; Assault Vest sets fear nothing and can trap it easily. Empoleon fears nothing from most Latias sets and can use Knock Off, Toxic, or Roar to wear it down, though it's OHKOed by +1 Gigavolt Havoc. Klefki can switch into any attack and force Latias out with the threat of Thunder Wave and Play Rough; physically defensive sets are 2HKOed by Life Orb-boosted Hidden Power Fire, however.

**Pursuit Users**: Alolan Muk, Metagross, and specially defensive Scizor can tank any of Latias's attacks and force it out, potentially KOing it with Pursuit on the switch. Faster Pursuit users such as Krookodile, Mega Aerodactyl, and Mega Absol can't switch in directly, but they can also force Latias out and KO it with Pursuit, especially if Latias is weakened or at -2.

**Revenge Killers**: Mega Beedrill, Mega Sceptile, Mega Aerodactyl, and most Choice Scarf users can threaten Latias with a KO after Stealth Rock damage. Other examples are Talonflame, Whimsicott, and Life Orb Starmie. Latias is also weak to Mamoswine's Ice Shard and takes a lot of damage from offensive Scizor's Bullet Punch.

**Setup Sweepers**: After using Draco Meteor, Latias is prone to being set up on by Pokemon like Scizor, Cobalion, Mega Swampert, Raikou, and Talonflame. These Pokemon can often pick up at least one KO, and must be taken into account when using Draco Meteor.

**Fairy-types**: Defensive Fairy-types like Florges, Sylveon, and Klefki can switch into some Latias variants but are beaten one-on-one by others. Togekiss and Primarina can force out Latias when they're healthy or given a free switch, but are 2HKOed by most Latias sets.

**Special Walls**: Blissey must watch out for Psyshock, especially from the Calm Mind set, but most Latias sets run Psychic. It can deal with any other Latias set easily. Snorlax can switch into any move besides boosted Psyshock. Mandibuzz takes a lot from Life Orb-boosted Thunderbolt but can outheal other non-boosted hits. Slowking can switch into Latias reasonably well, and Assault Vest variants can phaze Calm Mind variants with Dragon Tail, but non-Calm Mind sets lose one-on-one against Recover variants of Latias.
 
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"Fighting-types such as Conkeldurr, Cobalion, and Buzzwole capitalize on the bulky Steel-types and Pursuit users that force Latias out or beat it, and also appreciate" Finish that. QC: Ribombee 1/Ribombee 3
 

Eyan

sleep is the cousin of death
is a Top Tutor Alumnusis a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Social Media Contributor Alumnusis a Forum Moderator Alumnusis a Community Contributor Alumnusis a Tiering Contributor Alumnusis a Contributor Alumnusis a Battle Simulator Moderator Alumnus
Well bouff had this: for special walls mention that av slowking can phase it out with dragon tail which imo is p significant for playing against cm sets

but yeah, nothing from my end. QC 3/3
 

Lumari

empty spaces
is a Site Content Manageris a Top Social Media Contributoris a Member of Senior Staffis a Community Contributoris a Top Contributoris a Top Smogon Media Contributoris an Administrator Alumnus
TFP Leader


remove
add / fix (comments); (AC=add comma; RC=remove comma; SC=semicolon)
GP 1/2
, i trust you will implement this faster than killintime did
[OVERVIEW]

With its high Speed, good Special Attack, and excellent offensive typing, Latias is one of UU's most potent offensive Pokemon and is capable of threatening any playstyle with its variety of sets. Access to Calm Mind and the advent of Z moves ability to viably use Z-Moves (feel free to adjust for accuracy / nuance but i'd rather cut anything time-like cuz those are the rules) let it get past nearly any potential check or counter in the game, while its decent typing, great bulk, great ability, and access to reliable recovery all contribute to its great defensive utility. Latias also has great support options in Defog and Healing Wish. However, most UU teams manage to fit one of the many Pursuit users of the tier—Krookodile, Mega Aerodactyl, Metagross, Alolan Muk, Mega Absol, Scizor, and even Mega Beedrill—though Latias can get around several of them with its variety of sets. Latias also tends to struggle against bulky Steel types like Empoleon, Metagross, Scizor, Klefki, and Mega Steelix, although sets like Z Thunder Gigavolt Havoc and Life Orb Hidden Power Fire can get around these as well.

[SET]
name: Calm Mind
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Draco Meteor
move 3: Psychic
move 4: Recover / Hidden Power Fire
item: Dragonium Z / Life Orb
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

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

Calm Mind turns Latias into a wallbreaker that can power through Pokemon like Sylveon, Togekiss, and Gliscor (RC) and also makes it harder for Pokemon like Mega Sceptile and Choice Scarf Hydreigon to revenge kill it. Despite dropping Latias's Special Attack, Draco Meteor is Latias's best STAB move, (comma) and lets it nuke letting it destroy any non-Fairy-type, especially combined with Dragonium Z. Psychic lets Latias hit Pokemon like Hippowdon, Gliscor, Cobalion, and Volcanion hard without dropping its Special Attack. Psyshock is also an option to hit most Fairy-types slightly harder and beat certain opposing Calm Mind Pokemon like Raikou, but is generally inferior due to its decreased damage output on most of the tier.

The last moveslot depends on what Latias's team needs it to do. Recover lets Latias stay healthy in order to check Pokemon like Volcanion and Gliscor and lets it 1v1 beat defensive Fairy-types one-on-one easily. On a more offensive team that can't afford to give up momentum to Steel-types, Hidden Power Fire KOs KOes offensive Scizor without a boost, (AC) and OHKOes bulky Scizor after a Calm Mind, and does heavy damage to opposing Mega Steelix, Cobalion, and non-Assault Vest Metagross.

Set Details
========

Latias needs maximum Special Attack and Speed to outspeed Pokemon like Infernape and Cobalion and hit as hard as possible. Dragonium Z lets Latias hit any non-Fairy type with a massive nuke an extremely powerful hit without dropping its Special Attack. +1 Devastating Drake OHKOs OHKOes Hippowdon (RC) and Gliscor, offensive Scizor after Stealth Rock damage, and does upwards of 80% to Assault Vest Alolan Muk-Alola. Psychium Z is also an option, but it Shattered Psyche doesn't OHKO any defensive Fairy-types like Sylveon at +1, and Latias beats them anyway if it avoids a critical hit. Unboosted Shattered Psyche does OHKO Cobalion, however. Life Orb can be used if another member of Latias's team would rather hold a Z-Crystal. (AH) Soul Dew is an option as well to avoid Life Orb recoil damage at the cost of some power.

Latias can also run Thunder over Hidden Power Fire or Psychic, while holding Electrium Z. This allows it to OHKO Primarina and other offensive Water-types unboosted, OHKO Empoleon, physically defensive Klefki, and Togekiss at +1, and OHKO bulky Scizor at +1 with a small amount of prior damage.

Usage Tips
========

Latias should be used as an early- to mid-game wallbreaker, though it can also sweep teams that lack faster physical revenge killers. Use opposing Pokemon like Tentacruel and Hippowdon as opportunities to set up Calm Mind, but if the opponent has something like Mega Steelix, Assault Vest Metagross, or Assault Vest Muk, it's best to get prior damage on them before setting up. If you opt for Hidden Power Fire or Thunder over Recover, avoid switching Latias recklessly into Pokemon like Volcanion, if possible. Latias should often be used to weaken or beat defensive Fairy-types like Sylveon and Klefki, especially if it runs Recover to reliably beat the former.

Team Options
========

Calm Mind Latias fits best on bulky offense teams that can utilize its breaking potential and unique set of resistances. Fighting-types such as Conkeldurr, Cobalion, and Buzzwole capitalize on the bulky Steel-types and Pursuit users that force Latias out or beat it, and they also appreciate Latias'a ability to wear down or KO Fairy-types. Spikes dig into the Steel-types that give Latias trouble; Klefki is a great Spikes user that also switches into several Latias checks like Mega Beedrill, Mega Sceptile, and Sylveon. Pokemon like Mega Beedrill, Mega Aerodactyl, and offensive Scizor capitalize on Latias's ability to nuke destroy opposing Steel-types. Latias works well with other common offensive staples such as Choice Scarf Krookodile, Primarina, Mega Blastoise, Nidoking, and Xurkitree.

[SET]
name: Life Orb
move 1: Draco Meteor
move 2: Psychic / Thunderbolt
move 3: Hidden Power Fire / Defog
move 4: Recover / Healing Wish / Defog
item: Life Orb
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

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

Draco Meteor deals good damage to most non-resists Pokemon that resist it and even does over 50% to Cobalion and offensive Scizor. Psychic does decent damage to offensive Pokemon as well (RC) and doesn't drop without dropping Latias's Special Attack. Thunderbolt hits several Dragon-resistant threats resists found on offense, such as Primarina, Togekiss, and Empoleon harder than Psychic, and it is more useful against other Pokemon like Volcanion. However, dropping Psychic leaves Latias completely blanked by Sylveon and Florges (RC) and forces it to use the risky Draco Meteor against Ground-types, Raikou, and Xurkitree.

Latias's last two moveslots are team dependent. Hidden Power Fire lets Latias OHKO any Scizor variant, with only heavy Special Defense-invested (AH) ones needing Stealth Rock to OHKO. It also lets Latias 3HKO Mega Steelix, Metagross, and specially defensive Klefki. Recover or Healing Wish is the best option for the last moveslot, depending on Latias's team. Recover is best on bulky offense and balance that need Latias's ability to check certain threats, while Healing Wish works better on faster-paced (AH) offensive teams where it Latias won't necessarily need Recover. Defog is also an option in case Latias's team can't fit entry hazard removal elsewhere. However, Latias is usually better off playing a more active role by firing off powerful hits (RC) and appreciates it if partners like Empoleon or Togekiss could take care of Defog instead.

Set Details
========

Maximum Special Attack and Life Orb let Latias 2HKO a large portion of the metagame and threaten most offensive Pokemon. Maximum Speed with a Timid nature is needed to outspeed Pokemon like Terrakion. Levitate lets Latias check Pokemon like Hippowdon, Gliscor, and Mega Swampert and also avoid Spikes damage.

Usage Tips
========

Simply bring Latias in on one of the many Pokemon it checks and fire off powerful hits, predicting switches to Steel-types hitting predicted Steel-type switch-ins with Hidden Power Fire and staying healthy with Recover as needed. However, don't switch Latias in recklessly on Pokemon like Terrakion, Conkeldurr, and Raikou, which can potentially OHKO it on the switch or with a boosted attack. With Healing Wish, play Latias carefully, as it's usually not used with Recover. Latias usually won't be able to do more than fire off one or two attacks before using Healing Wish. Prioritize Latias's health especially if a faster Pursuit user like Mega Aerodactyl or Choice Scarf Krookodile will most likely try to pick it off.

Team Options
========

Life Orb Latias fits on playstyles ranging from balance that needs Latias's resistances or entry hazard removing capabilities to hyper offense that could use a reasonably fast pivot, nuke breaker, and Healing Wish. Life Orb Latias with Recover and/or Defog is a great fit for almost any balance or bulky offense, pairing well with bulkier Stealth Rock users like Mega Swampert, Cobalion, Empoleon, and Hippowdon. Common balance Pokemon like Amoonguss, bulky Scizor, Gliscor, and Metagross are good partners as well, bringing anything from defensive synergy to pivot support to the table. There's really no limit to which Pokemon on balance and bulky offense teams appreciate the support that Latias provides.

On more offensive teams, Latias will most likely be using three attacks + Healing Wish, though Defog can work too if it's absolutely necessary. Partners like Talonflame, Cobalion, Rain Dance Mega Swampert, Scizor, and Venomoth are all great partners that become ridiculously threatening with Healing Wish support. In particular, Fighting-type sweepers like Cobalion, Terrakion, and Conkeldurr can receive a Healing Wish against Pokemon like Alolan Muk-Alola and Scizor and proceed to set up easily. On these teams, more offensive Stealth Rock users like Nidoqueen, Azelf, or Terrakion should be used. These teams also frequently use Mega Blastoise or Life Orb Starmie to clear entry hazards from their side without removing them from the opposing side.

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Draco Meteor
move 2: Psychic
move 3: Healing Wish
move 4: Trick
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

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

Draco Meteor is Latias's strongest move and is needed to do as much damage as possible to Pokemon like Mega Swampert, Talonflame, and Mega Aerodactyl. Psychic hits Pokemon like Cobalion, Mega Beedrill, and others for consistent damage. Healing Wish is a great move for Choice Scarf Latias, allowing it to revive a weakened teammate while not without forfeiting momentum. Trick lets Latias cripple something in matchups where its Choice Scarf isn't needed. Running Hidden Power Fire means prevents Latias isn't from being stopped cold by Scizor, but it doesn't do enough damage to other Steel-types to usually be worthwhile (RC) and is a terrible move to be locked into.

Set Details
========

Full Special Attack investment allows Latias to maximize its damage output against Pokemon it tries to revenge kill. Maximum Speed with a Timid nature lets it outspeed any other viable Choice Scarf user as well as Jolly Mega Swampert under rain. Levitate provides Latias with a useful Ground immunity.

Usage Tips
========

Latias should primarily be used as a revenge killer, but without a damage-boosting (AH) item, it needs prior damage on several of its targets because it's so weak. For example, it can't reliably KO Mega Aerodactyl after Stealth Rock damage. Latias is also prone to being set up on, especially after using Draco Meteor. Ensure that one of its teammates or Latias itself can revenge kill Pokemon that try to take advantage of a locked move.

In matchups against offense, Latias will usually be limited to revenge killing one Pokemon before using Healing Wish, if possible. In matchups against bulkier teams, it may be able to Trick away its Choice Scarf early on and come onto the field somewhat more frequently. Latias should often be double switching out instead of using a weak move into a Steel-type switchin switch-in. This prevents Latias from losing too much momentum, gives Pokemon like Mamoswine fewer opportunities to come in a wreak havoc, and helps preserve Latias against teams with Pursuit trappers. Healing Wish can also be used to prevent Defog and pivot into a teammate that can threaten to KO the Defog user or set up on it.

Team Options
========

Choice Scarf Latias fits best on offensive teams, especially hyper offense, that need its Speed and can capitalize on Healing Wish support. Offensive teammates like Conkeldurr, Cobalion, Nidoking, Mega Swampert, and Mega Aerodactyl are all examples of offensive Pokemon that appreciate Healing Wish support. These Pokemon also can be double switched into Steel-types that try to come in on Latias. Other sweepers that work well on these teams are Cloyster, Venomoth, Scizor, and Hawlucha. Pokemon like Primarina, Nidoking, and Raikou are other Pokemon that are prone to getting worn down and love having a second opportunity to come in at full health. Suicide leads with Stealth Rock, such as Azelf and Terrakion, work well on offensive teams with Choice Scarf Latias. If Latias can cripple a Defog user like Togekiss or Mandibuzz, it can be easy to keep Stealth Rock up.

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

Latias has a few other support options such as Tailwind and Thunder Wave, but they are much more situationally useful than any of Latias's main options. Surf can be used to 2HKO Mega Steelix, (AC) and Ice Beam can be used to 2HKO Gliscor; both work reasonably well alongside Thunderbolt on the Life Orb set. However, Latias won't be able to hit other Steel-types hard without Hidden Power Fire. Choice Specs is a decent set, but Latias hates being locked into its STAB moves due to drawbacks and immunities, making Life Orb a generally better set. A set with maximum HP, Calm Mind, Stored Power, and Recover can be used. Refresh as the last move destroys any stall that lacks a Dark-type or Mega Steelix, while Dragon Pulse or Draco Meteor at least gives Latias a decent attack right off the bat. This set is rather situational and falls flat against any remotely offensive team, though.

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

**Steel-types**: Most Steel-types can take Latias's STAB moves well. Mega Steelix is only 3HKOed by Life Orb-boosted Hidden Power Fire and 2HKOs 2HKOes back with Heavy Slam. Offensive Scizor, whether Choice Band, Choice Scarf, or Swords Dance, is OHKOed by Hidden Power Fire and +1 Z moves, Z-Moves but can take any other attack and KO in return. Bulky Metagross is only threatened by Life Orb-boosted Hidden Power Fire and +1 Gigavolt Havoc (RC) and can threaten Latias with a strong Meteor Mash or Pursuit; Assault Vest sets fear nothing and can trap it easily. Empoleon fears nothing from most Latias sets and can use Knock Off, Toxic, or Roar to wear it down, though it's OHKOed by +1 Gigavolt Havoc. Klefki can switch into any attack and force Latias out with the threat of Thunder Wave and Play Rough; physically defensive sets are 2HKOed by Life Orb-boosted Hidden Power Fire, however.

**Pursuit Users**: (colon) Alolan Muk-Alola, Metagross, and specially defensive Scizor can all tank any of Latias's attacks and force it out, potentially KOing it with Pursuit on the switch. Faster Pursuit users such as Krookodile, Mega Aerodactyl, and Mega Absol can't switch in directly, but they can also force Latias out and KO it with Pursuit, especially if Latias is weakened or at -2.

**Revenge Killers**: Mega Beedrill, Mega Sceptile, Mega Aerodactyl, and most Choice Scarf users can threaten Latias with a KO after Stealth Rock damage. Other examples are Talonflame, Whimsicott, and Life Orb Starmie. Latias is also weak to Mamoswine's Ice Shard and takes a lot of damage from offensive Scizor's Bullet Punch.

**Setting Up on -2 Latias Setup Sweepers**: (colon) After using Draco Meteor, Latias is prone to being set up on by Pokemon like Scizor, Cobalion, Mega Swampert, Raikou, and Talonflame. These Pokemon can often pick up at least one KI, KO and must be taken into account when using Draco Meteor.

**Fairy-types**: (colon) Defensive Fairy-types like Florges, Sylveon, and Klefki can switch into some Latias variants (RC) but are beaten 1v1 one-on-one by others. Togekiss and Primarina can force out Latias when they're healthy or given a free switch (RC) but are 2HKO'd 2HKOed by most Latias sets.

**Special Walls**: (colon) Blissey must watch out for Psyshock, especially from the Calm Mind set, but most Latias sets run Psychic. It can deal with any other Latias set easily. Snorlax can also switch into any move besides boosted Psyshock. Mandibuzz takes a lot from Life Orb-boosted Thunderbolt (RC) but can Roost off other non-boosted hits. Slowking can switch into Latias reasonably well, and Assault Vest variants can phase phaze Calm Mind variants out with Dragon Tail, but non-Calm Mind sets lose one-one-one one-on-one against Recover variants of Latias.
 
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Freeroamer

The greatest story of them all.
is a Community Contributoris a Top Tiering Contributor
Is Grass coverage worth a mention on the scarf set, revenge kills Jolly pert in rain (outspeeds by 1 point) which is something no other scarfer in this tier can really do, Grass Knot always OHKOes while Energy Ball needs SR to guarantee so that seems the better move to run in case you somehow end up vs a 100% pert in rain, nifty revenge killer as it can actually pivot into pert somewhat also.
 

GP 2/2
remove add

[OVERVIEW]
With its high Speed, good Special Attack, and excellent offensive typing, Latias is one of UU's most potent offensive Pokemon and is capable of threatening any playstyle with its variety of sets. Access to Calm Mind and the ability to viably use Z-Moves let it get past nearly any potential check or counter in the game, while its decent typing, great bulk, great ability, and access to reliable recovery all contribute to its great defensive utility. Latias also has great support options in Defog and Healing Wish. However, most UU teams manage to fit on one of the many Pursuit users of the tier - in Krookodile, Mega Aerodactyl, Metagross, Alolan Muk, Mega Absol, Scizor, and or even Mega Beedrill, (comma) which can all easily remove Latias. - though Latias can get around several of them with its variety of certain sets, (comma) though. Latias also tends to struggle against bulky Steel-(hyphen)types like Empoleon, Metagross, Scizor, Klefki, and Mega Steelix, although but sets with Gigavolt Havoc or Life Orb Hidden Power Fire can get around these as well.

[SET]
name: Calm Mind
move 1: Calm Mind
move 2: Draco Meteor
move 3: Psychic
move 4: Recover / Hidden Power Fire
item: Dragonium Z / Life Orb
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

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

Calm Mind turns Latias into a wallbreaker that can power through Pokemon like Sylveon, Togekiss, and Gliscor, (comma) and makes it Latias harder for Pokemon like Mega Sceptile and Choice Scarf Hydreigon to revenge kill it. Despite dropping Latias's Special Attack, Draco Meteor is Latias's best STAB move, letting it destroy any non-Fairy-type, especially combined with Dragonium Z. Psychic lets Latias hit Pokemon like Hippowdon, Gliscor, Cobalion, and Volcanion hard without dropping its Special Attack. Psyshock is also an option to hit most Fairy-types slightly harder and beat certain opposing Calm Mind Pokemon users like Raikou, but is generally inferior due to its decreased lower damage output on most of the tier.

The last moveslot depends on what Latias's team needs it to do. Recover lets Latias stay healthy in order to check Pokemon like Volcanion and Gliscor and lets it easily beat defensive Fairy-types one-on-one easily. On a more offensive team that can't afford to give up momentum to Steel-types, Hidden Power Fire KOes offensive Scizor without a boost, OHKOes bulky Scizor after a use of Calm Mind, and does heavy damage to opposing Mega Steelix, Cobalion, and non-Assault Vest Metagross.

Set Details
========

Latias needs maximum Special Attack and Speed to hit as hard as possible and outspeed Pokemon like Infernape and Cobalion and hit as hard as possible. Dragonium Z lets Latias hit any non-Fairy type with an extremely powerful hit attack without dropping its Special Attack. +1 Devastating Drake OHKOes Hippowdon and Gliscor, OHKOes offensive Scizor after Stealth Rock damage, and does upwards of 80% to Assault Vest Alolan Muk. Psychium Z is also an option, but +1 Shattered Psyche doesn't OHKO any defensive Fairy-types like Sylveon at +1, and Latias beats them anyway if it avoids a critical hit. Unboosted Shattered Psyche does OHKO Cobalion, however. Life Orb can be used if another member of Latias's team would rather hold a Z-Crystal. Soul Dew is an option as well to avoid Life Orb recoil damage at the cost of some power.

Latias can also run Thunder over Hidden Power Fire or Psychic, (comma) while holding Electrium Z. This allows it to OHKO Primarina and other offensive Water-types unboosted, OHKO Empoleon, physically defensive Klefki, and Togekiss at +1, and OHKO bulky Scizor at +1 with a small amount of prior damage.

Usage Tips
========

Latias should be used as an early- to or mid-game wallbreaker, though it can also sweep teams that lack faster physical revenge killers. Use opposing Pokemon foes like Tentacruel and Hippowdon as opportunities to set up Calm Mind, but if the opponent has something like Mega Steelix, Assault Vest Metagross, or Assault Vest Alolan Muk, it's best to get prior damage on them before setting up. If you opt for Hidden Power Fire or Thunder over Recover, avoid switching Latias recklessly into Pokemon like Volcanion, (comma) if possible. Latias should often be used to weaken or beat defensive Fairy-types like Sylveon and Klefki, especially if it runs Recover to reliably beat the former.

Team Options
========

Calm Mind Latias fits best on bulky offense teams that can utilize its breaking potential and unique set of resistances. Fighting-types such as Conkeldurr, Cobalion, and Buzzwole capitalize on the bulky Steel-types and Pursuit users that force Latias out or beat it, and they also appreciate Latias'as ability to wear down or KO Fairy-types. Spikes dig into the Steel-types that give Latias trouble; Klefki is a great Spikes user that also switches into several Latias checks like Mega Beedrill, Mega Sceptile, and Sylveon. Pokemon like Mega Beedrill, Mega Aerodactyl, and offensive Scizor capitalize on Latias's ability to destroy opposing Steel-types. Latias works well with other common offensive staples such as Choice Scarf Krookodile, Primarina, Mega Blastoise, Nidoking, and Xurkitree.

[SET]
name: Life Orb
move 1: Draco Meteor
move 2: Psychic / Thunderbolt
move 3: Hidden Power Fire / Defog
move 4: Recover / Healing Wish / Defog
item: Life Orb
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

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

Draco Meteor deals good damage to most neutral targets and even does over 50% to Cobalion and offensive Scizor. Psychic does decent damage to offensive Pokemon as well without dropping Latias's Special Attack. Thunderbolt hits several Dragon-resistant threats found on offense, (comma) such as Primarina, Togekiss, and Empoleon harder than Psychic, (comma) and is more useful against other Pokemon like Volcanion. However, dropping Psychic leaves Latias completely blanked walled by Sylveon and Florges and forces it to use the risky Draco Meteor against Ground-types, Raikou, and Xurkitree.

Latias's last two moveslots are team-(hyphen)dependent. Hidden Power Fire lets Latias OHKO any Scizor variant, with only heavy Special Defense-invested specially defensive ones needing Stealth Rock damage to OHKO. It also lets Latias 3HKO Mega Steelix, Metagross, and specially defensive Klefki. Recover or Healing Wish is the best option for the last moveslot, (comma) depending on Latias's team. Recover is best on bulky offense and balance teams that need Latias's ability to check certain threats, while Healing Wish works better on faster-paced offensive teams where Latias won't necessarily need Recover. Defog is also an option in case Latias's team can't fit entry hazard removal elsewhere. However, Latias is usually better off playing a more active role by firing off powerful hits and appreciates it if partners like Empoleon or and Togekiss could take care of Defog instead.

Set Details
========

Maximum Special Attack investment and Life Orb let Latias 2HKO a large portion of the metagame and threaten most offensive Pokemon. Maximum Speed with a Timid nature is needed to outspeed Pokemon like Terrakion. Levitate lets Latias check Pokemon like Hippowdon, Gliscor, and Mega Swampert and also avoid Spikes damage.

Usage Tips
========

Simply bring Latias in on one of the many Pokemon it checks and fire off powerful hits, hitting predicted Steel-type switch-(hyphen)ins with Hidden Power Fire and staying healthy with Recover as needed. However, don't recklessly switch Latias in recklessly on Pokemon like Terrakion, Conkeldurr, and Raikou, which can potentially OHKO it on the switch or with a boosted attack. With Healing Wish, play Latias carefully, as it's usually not used with Recover. Latias usually won't be able to do more than fire off one or two attacks before using Healing Wish. Prioritize Latias's health, (comma) especially if a faster Pursuit user like Mega Aerodactyl or Choice Scarf Krookodile will most likely try to pick it off.

Team Options
========

Life Orb Latias fits on playstyles ranging from balance that needs Latias's resistances or entry hazard removing capabilities to hyper offense that could use a reasonably fast pivot, wallbreaker, and Healing Wish user. Life Orb Latias with Recover and/or Defog is a great fit for almost any balance or bulky offense, pairing well with bulkier Stealth Rock users like Mega Swampert, Cobalion, Empoleon, and Hippowdon. Common balance Pokemon like Amoonguss, bulky Scizor, Gliscor, and Metagross are good partners as well, bringing anything from defensive synergy to pivot support to the table. There's really no limit to which the number of Pokemon on balance and bulky offense teams that appreciate the support that Latias provides.

On more offensive teams, Latias will most likely be using three attacks + Healing Wish, though Defog can work too if it's absolutely necessary. Partners like Talonflame, Cobalion, Rain Dance Mega Swampert, Scizor, and Venomoth are all great partners that become ridiculously threatening with Healing Wish support. In particular, Fighting-type sweepers like Cobalion, Terrakion, and Conkeldurr can receive a Healing Wish against Pokemon like Alolan Muk and Scizor and proceed to set up easily. On these teams, more offensive Stealth Rock users like Nidoqueen, Azelf, or and Terrakion should be used. These teams also frequently use a spinner in Mega Blastoise or Life Orb Starmie to clear entry hazards from only their side, (comma) so running Defog on Latias can be counterintuitive without removing them from the opposing side.

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Draco Meteor
move 2: Psychic
move 3: Healing Wish
move 4: Trick
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Levitate
nature: Timid
evs: 4 HP / 252 SpA / 252 Spe

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

Draco Meteor is Latias's strongest move and is needed to do as much damage as possible to Pokemon like Mega Swampert, Talonflame, and Mega Aerodactyl. Psychic hits Pokemon like Cobalion, Mega Beedrill, and others for consistent damage. Healing Wish is a great move for Choice Scarf Latias, allowing it to revive heal a weakened teammate without forfeiting momentum. Trick lets Latias cripple something in matchups where its Choice Scarf isn't needed. Running Hidden Power Fire prevents Latias from being stopped cold by Scizor, but it doesn't do enough damage to other Steel-types to usually be worthwhile and is a terrible move to be locked into.

Set Details
========

Full Special Attack investment allows Latias to maximize its damage output against Pokemon it tries to revenge kill. Maximum Speed with a Timid nature lets it outspeed any other viable Choice Scarf user as well as Jolly Mega Swampert under rain. Levitate provides Latias with a useful Ground immunity.

Usage Tips
========

Latias should primarily be used as a revenge killer, but without a damage-boosting item, it needs prior damage on several of its targets because it's so weak. For example, it can't reliably KO Mega Aerodactyl after Stealth Rock damage. Latias is also prone to being set up on, especially after using Draco Meteor. Ensure that one of its teammates a teammate or Latias itself can revenge kill Pokemon that try to take advantage of a locked move.

In matchups against offense, Latias will usually be limited to revenge killing one Pokemon before using Healing Wish, if possible. In matchups against bulkier teams, it may be able to use Trick away to remove its Choice Scarf early on and come onto the field somewhat more frequently. Latias should often be double switching out instead of using a weak move into on a Steel-type switch-in. This prevents Latias from losing too much momentum, gives Pokemon like Mamoswine fewer opportunities to come in and wreak havoc, and helps preserve Latias against teams with Pursuit trappers. Healing Wish can also be used to prevent Defog and pivot into a teammate that can threaten to KO the Defog user or set up on it.

Team Options
========

Choice Scarf Latias fits best on offensive teams, especially hyper offense, that need its Speed and can capitalize on Healing Wish support. Offensive teammates like Conkeldurr, Cobalion, Nidoking, Mega Swampert, and Mega Aerodactyl are all examples of offensive Pokemon that appreciate Healing Wish support. These Pokemon also can be double switched into Steel-types that try to come in on Latias. Other sweepers that work well on these teams are Cloyster, Venomoth, Scizor, and Hawlucha. Pokemon like Primarina, Nidoking, and Raikou are other Pokemon that are prone to getting worn down and love having a second opportunity to come in at full health. Suicide leads with Stealth Rock, such as Azelf and Terrakion, work well on offensive teams with Choice Scarf Latias. If Latias can cripple a Defog user like Togekiss or Mandibuzz, it can be easy to keep Stealth Rock up.

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

Latias has a few other support options such as Tailwind and Thunder Wave, but they are much more situationally useful than any of Latias's main options. Surf can be used to 2HKO Mega Steelix, and Ice Beam can be used to OHKO Gliscor; both work reasonably well alongside Thunderbolt on the Life Orb set. However, Latias won't be able to hit other Steel-types hard without Hidden Power Fire. Grass Knot can be used on the Choice Scarf set to reliably outspeed and OHKO Mega Swampert in the rain. Choice Specs is a decent set, but Latias hates being locked into its STAB moves due to their drawbacks and immunities, making Life Orb a generally better set. A set with maximum HP, Calm Mind, Stored Power, and Recover can be used. Refresh as the last move on such a set destroys any stall that lacks a Dark-type or Mega Steelix, while Dragon Pulse or Draco Meteor at least gives Latias a decent attack right off the bat. This set is rather situational and falls flat against any remotely offensive team, though.

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

**Steel-types**: Most Steel-types can take Latias's STAB moves well. Mega Steelix is only 3HKOed by Life Orb-boosted Hidden Power Fire and 2HKOes back with Heavy Slam. Offensive Scizor, whether Choice Band, Choice Scarf, or Swords Dance, is OHKOed by Hidden Power Fire and +1 Z-Moves, but can take any other attack and KO in return. Bulky Metagross is only threatened by Life Orb-boosted Hidden Power Fire and +1 Gigavolt Havoc and can threaten Latias with a strong Meteor Mash or Pursuit; Assault Vest sets fear nothing and can trap it easily. Empoleon fears nothing from most Latias sets and can use Knock Off, Toxic, or Roar to wear it down, though it's OHKOed by +1 Gigavolt Havoc. Klefki can switch into any attack and force Latias out with the threat of Thunder Wave and Play Rough; physically defensive sets are 2HKOed by Life Orb-boosted Hidden Power Fire, however.

**Pursuit Users**: Alolan Muk, Metagross, and specially defensive Scizor can all tank any of Latias's attacks and force it out, potentially KOing it with Pursuit on the switch. Faster Pursuit users such as Krookodile, Mega Aerodactyl, and Mega Absol can't switch in directly, but they can also force Latias out and KO it with Pursuit, especially if Latias is weakened or at -2.

**Revenge Killers**: Mega Beedrill, Mega Sceptile, Mega Aerodactyl, and most Choice Scarf users can threaten Latias with a KO after Stealth Rock damage. Other examples are Talonflame, Whimsicott, and Life Orb Starmie. Latias is also weak to Mamoswine's Ice Shard and takes a lot of damage from offensive Scizor's Bullet Punch.

**Setup Sweepers**: After using Draco Meteor, Latias is prone to being set up on by Pokemon like Scizor, Cobalion, Mega Swampert, Raikou, and Talonflame. These Pokemon can often pick up at least one KO, and must be taken into account when using Draco Meteor.

**Fairy-types**: Defensive Fairy-types like Florges, Sylveon, and Klefki can switch into some Latias variants but are beaten one-on-one by others. Togekiss and Primarina can force out Latias when they're healthy or given a free switch, but are 2HKOed by most Latias sets.

**Special Walls**(space):(space)Blissey must watch out for Psyshock, especially from the Calm Mind set, but most Latias sets run Psychic. It can deal with any other Latias set easily. Snorlax can also switch into any move besides boosted Psyshock. Mandibuzz takes a lot from Life Orb-boosted Thunderbolt but can Roost off outheal other non-boosted hits. Slowking can switch into Latias reasonably well, and Assault Vest variants can phaze Calm Mind variants with Dragon Tail, but non-Calm Mind sets lose one-on-one against Recover variants of Latias.
 
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