Monotype Tapu Bulu (Fairy)

lotiasite

undedgy
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[OVERVIEW]

Fairy
=======

Tapu Bulu's excellent Attack stat in conjunction with its Grassy Terrain-boosted STAB attacks makes it a great physical wallbreaker on Fairy teams. It is also able to serve as a revenge killer with Choice Scarf. Its Grass typing allows it to take on Ground, Rock, and Water teams and relieve some of the pressure on Azumarill and Tapu Koko, and it is able to sweep these teams easily with Choice Scarf. Furthermore, Tapu Bulu's access to decent coverage moves such as Superpower, Stone Edge, and Zen Headbutt allows it to check several types in the metagame. Grassy Surge provides immense support for Fairy teams, giving passive recovery and reducing damage dealt by Earthquake. However, it also recovers the health of the opposing team, which can be disadvantageous. Also, Tapu Bulu has trouble KOing certain physically defensive Pokemon, such as Skarmory, even with its amazing wallbreaking power, and it is even more easily walled by them when using Choice Scarf. Tapu Bulu's Grassy / Fairy typing leaves it with a huge weakness to Poison-type attacks, meaning users of such attacks force Tapu Bulu to switch out to Klefki. Finally, Tapu Bulu's subpar Speed stat leaves it outsped by positive-natured base 80 Speed Pokemon and Choice Scarf users, meaning it usually has to take damage before dishing it out, though with a Choice Scarf, it is able to outspeed some of them.

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf (Fairy)
move 1: Wood Hammer
move 2: Horn Leech
move 3: Superpower
move 4: Stone Edge
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Grassy Surge
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

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

STAB Wood Hammer deals massive damage when boosted by Grassy Terrain and is the move Tapu Bulu should use most of the time. Horn Leech is a secondary STAB move that Tapu Bulu should use if it wants to preserve its HP and avoid taking recoil damage, especially if Horn Leech can KO the opposing Pokemon. Superpower is good coverage for taking on Steel-types like Heatran and Magnezone. Stone Edge nails Flying- and Fire-types like Charizard looking to switch into Wood Hammer or Horn Leech.

Set Details
========

252 Attack EVs maximize Tapu Bulu's power. Maximum Speed EVs, a Jolly nature, and a Choice Scarf allow Tapu Bulu to outspeed most unboosted Pokemon in the metagame and fulfill the role of a revenge killer; notable Pokemon it can outspeed are Greninja and Tapu Koko. Grassy Surge is an invaluable ability that boosts the power of Tapu Bulu's STAB attacks, gives its team passive recovery, and weakens Earthquake.

Usage Tips
========

Choice Scarf Tapu Bulu should be mostly used as a revenge killer, coming in after a teammate has been KOed to land a hard-hitting Wood Hammer on the opposing team. It is best to revenge kill fast, frail Pokemon like Greninja. Wood Hammer is also a very spammable attack in general and should be used to wallbreak as much as possible. On the other hand, use Horn Leech when Tapu Bulu is low on HP; you should also use Horn Leech when it is sufficient to KO the foe to avoid taking unnecessary recoil. It is helpful to use VoltTurn users to pivot out into Tapu Bulu to attack so it doesn't take unnecessary damage. Tapu Bulu can also be used as an emergency check to some setup sweepers that it outspeeds such as +1 Gyarados and Dragonite. You should aim to keep Grassy Terrain active as often as possible to weaken Earthquake and heal teammates. Choice Scarf Tapu Bulu has an easy time sweeping Water, Rock, and Ground teams with Horn Leech or Wood Hammer, since it is able to outspeed almost everything and its Grassy Terrain-boosted attacks hit very hard. Against Ground teams specifically, be wary of using Wood Hammer if there are no entry hazards on the opposing side, as Focus Sash Dugtrio can sometimes trap and remove Tapu Bulu, and Garchomp is able to survive Wood Hammer without hazard damage and chip away at Tapu Bulu with Rough Skin. However, against other teams, Tapu Bulu has a hard time breaking through physical walls like Porygon2 and Zapdos, so they should be removed before Tapu Bulu starts spamming Wood Hammer to avoid taking unnecessary recoil damage and giving those Pokemon free opportunities to switch in. Use the appropriate coverage move when predicting certain threats to switch into Tapu Bulu, such as Stone Edge when predicting a Flying-type to switch in. Avoid getting Tapu Bulu inflicted with status; burns diminish its power, paralysis ruins its Speed, and poison wears it down so that it is more easily revenge killed.

Team Options
========

Clefable can absorb troublesome status ailments for Tapu Bulu thanks to Magic Guard. It also provides entry hazard support in Stealth Rock and can weaken Steel-types with Fire-type coverage. Mega Diancie can also block status and is a great wallbreaker that can assist Tapu Bulu; in particular, it can check Poison-types, appreciates Tapu Bulu breaking down Steel-types with Superpower, and benefits from Grassy Terrain giving it recovery and weakening Earthquake. Tapu Koko and Mega Gardevoir can deal with the physical walls that trouble Tapu Bulu. Tapu Koko can also continually pivot into Tapu Bulu with U-turn and Volt Switch, weaken foes for Tapu Bulu to revenge kill, and deal with the Flying-types that resist Tapu Bulu's Wood Hammer, especially Skarmory and Celesteela. Tapu Bulu deals with Ground-types and other Electric-types in return. Azumarill can clean teams with +6 Aqua Jet after Tapu Bulu has weakened opposing Pokemon. Klefki can set up Spikes and dual screens, provide further support with Thunder Wave, switch into Poison- and Steel-types attacks aimed at Tapu Bulu thanks to its Steel typing, and act as an emergency check to some sweepers with Foul Play. Klefki heavily appreciates Grassy Terrain support as well, which halves Earthquake damage and gives it passive recovery. Babiri Berry Togekiss and Clefable can check Steel-types and deal sizeable damage to Skarmory, Celesteela, and Mega Scizor, all of which wall Tapu Bulu. Togekiss also checks Mega Venusaur thanks to its Flying typing and Serene Grace Air Slash.

[SET]
name: Choice Band (Fairy)
move 1: Wood Hammer
move 2: Horn Leech
move 3: Superpower
move 4: Stone Edge / Zen Headbutt
item: Choice Band
ability: Grassy Surge
nature: Adamant
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

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

Wood Hammer is Tapu Bulu's strongest STAB attack and boosted by both Grassy Terrain and Choice Band, dealing massive damage to Pokemon that don't resist it at the cost of significant recoil damage. Horn Leech provides Tapu Bulu with a reliable means of recovery while still hitting hard under Grassy Terrain. Superpower hits Steel-types such as Heatran and Ferrothorn, which would otherwise completely wall Tapu Bulu. Stone Edge hits Flying- and Fire-types such as Zapdos and Volcarona, which resist Tapu Bulu's Grass-type attacks. Zen Headbutt can be used instead of Stone Edge to let Tapu Bulu hit Poison-types such as Mega Venusaur.

Set Details
========

Maximum Attack investment with an Adamant nature and Choice Band maximizes Tapu Bulu's damage output, allowing it to bust holes in the opposing team. 252 Speed EVs make Tapu Bulu as fast as possible, outpacing neutral-natured Seismitoad, which would otherwise outspeed it and KO it with Sludge Wave. Grassy Surge summons Grassy Terrain upon switching in, boosting the power of Tapu Bulu's Grass-type moves, decreasing the power of Earthquake, and restoring health each turn.

Usage Tips
========

Tapu Bulu should be brought in early-game to weaken foes for its teammates as much as possible. It should use Wood Hammer as often as possible, as Wood Hammer deals the most damage under Grassy Terrain and weakens threats immensely. On the other hand, Horn Leech should be used when Tapu Bulu's HP is low and you want to preserve it, or if Horn Leech would still KO the foe to avoid taking unnecessary recoil damage. Tapu Bulu should attempt to advantage of Wood Hammer and Horn Leech while Grassy Terrain is active. Go for Superpower against Steel-types such as Heatran and Ferrothorn, and go for Stone Edge or Zen Headbutt against Fire- and Flying-types or Poison-types, respectively. Aim to keep Grassy Terrain up as much as possible to provide passive healing for teammates and reduce Earthquake damage, especially against Ground teams. Tapu Bulu's typing helps it switch into some attacks for its teammates, such as Garchomp's Earthquake, Xurkitree's Thunderbolt, and Azumarill's Aqua Jet. However, be wary about switching it into Tapu Fini, as Grassy Terrain overriding Misty Surge allows Scald to potentially burn Tapu Bulu. Avoid getting Tapu Bulu worn down by entry hazards, since it needs its HP to tank hits before attacking. Similarly, avoid letting Tapu Bulu get burned, since burns halve Tapu Bulu's Attack stat, making it much less threatening. Lastly, Tapu Bulu's subpar Speed makes it vulnerable to a myriad of revenge killers, so it is best to remove faster threats before bringing Tapu Bulu in.

Team Options
========

Almost all Fairy-types appreciate Tapu Bulu's wallbreaking capabilities, ability to take on Ground-type teams, and Grassy Terrain support. Klefki's Steel typing allows it to switch into Poison-type moves for Tapu Bulu, and it can also provide support with dual screens, Thunder Wave, and Spikes, improving Tapu Bulu's longevity, speed control, and ability to KO threats. Klefki also appreciates Grassy Terrain weakening Earthquake from threats like Excadrill and granting it passive recovery. Mega Diancie can also deal with some Poison-types, and Magic Bounce lets it beat down some defensive and support Pokemon. Tapu Koko can gain momentum for Tapu Bulu by letting it come in safely with Volt Switch or U-turn, and it easily checks Celesteela and Skarmory as well as revenge killers such as Landorus. Tapu Fini and Togekiss can provide Defog support for Tapu Bulu, keeping entry hazards off the field. Both of them can also stallbreak effectively with Taunt and Nasty Plot, respectively. The former can also weaken walls with Nature's Madness, whereas the latter can take on Grass-types such as Mega Venusaur. Choice Scarf Togekiss can also revenge kill targets that Tapu Bulu would struggle against, such as Infernape. Togekiss's Babiri Berry set can take hits from Mega Scizor and take it out with Fire Blast. Clefable is another Babiri Berry user that can take out Mega Scizor for Tapu Bulu, and it can even provide Stealth Rock support to pressure opposing teams. Z-Belly Drum Azumarill is able to threaten Fire-types such as Mega Charizard Y and Talonflame and appreciates Tapu Bulu's wallbreaking capabilities early-game so that it can sweep late-game. Lastly, Mega Gardevoir can check select Poison-types like Mega Venusaur thanks to its Psychic typing and is a powerful wallbreaker that can punch holes into opposing teams.

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

Fairy
--------
Swords Dance with Fightinium Z gives Tapu Bulu amazing power and can let it break through some walls, but Choice Scarf's Speed boost and Choice Band's immediate power boost are generally preferred. Substitute + Leech Seed can be used to stall out the opposing threat by slowly depleting its health with Leech Seed while avoiding damage with Substitute. Thanks to Tapu Bulu's average Speed, it can set up another Substitute if attacked and the Substitute is broken; however, this combination can be easily walled, and powerful attackers can pressure Tapu Bulu. A Jolly nature is an option for non-Choice Scarf sets to allow Tapu Bulu to outspeed both Timid Seismitoad and Adamant Diggersby.

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

Fairy
--------
**Skarmory and Celesteela**: Skarmory and Celesteela completely wall Tapu Bulu because of their excellent defensive typing and bulk. The former can stall Tapu Bulu with Roost and KO it with Brave Bird or Iron Head, and the latter KOes it with Heavy Slam or Flamethrower. Choice Scarf Tapu Bulu has it even worse, being unable to do any sorts of meaningful damage to either.

**Mega Venusaur**: Mega Venusaur walls Tapu Bulu's Grass-type attacks, resists Superpower, doesn't take much damage from Stone Edge, and can OHKO Tapu Bulu with Sludge Bomb. Tapu Bulu has to rely on Zen Headbutt to deal reasonable damage to it.

**Poison-types**: Poison-type Pokemon such as Nidoking and Gengar can threaten Tapu Bulu with their STAB attacks; however, they need to be wary of Tapu Bulu's Zen Headbutt, and most Poison-types cannot switch into Wood Hammer.

**Steel-types**: Tapu Bulu has to rely on Superpower to beat most Steel-types such as Heatran, Magnezone, and Ferrothorn. Mega Scizor can tank all of its attacks and use it to set up Swords Dance.

**Fire-types**: Several Fire-types such as Mega Charizard X, Volcarona, and Talonflame resist Tapu Bulu's Grass-type attacks and can threaten it with their STAB moves. However, they should be wary of switching into a Stone Edge.

**Grass-types**: Grass-types wall Tapu Bulu easily, and many of them, such as Serperior, can take advantage of Grassy Terrain.

**Revenge Killers**: Revenge killers, especially Choice Scarf users such as Nihilego and Victini, can easily outspeed and KO Tapu Bulu.

**Status**: Tapu Bulu doesn't appreciate being inflicted with status; burns heavily diminish its wallbreaking capabilities, poison hurts its longevity, and paralysis reduces its already lacking Speed.
 
Last edited:

lotiasite

undedgy
is a Forum Moderatoris a Top Contributoris a Smogon Media Contributoris a Social Media Contributor Alumnus
okay -- misaka mikoto gave me permission to take her skeleton and write it up, and shiba and eien confirmed this, so i'll start at qc 2/3 after writing it up
 

lotiasite

undedgy
is a Forum Moderatoris a Top Contributoris a Smogon Media Contributoris a Social Media Contributor Alumnus
okay written and ready for qc. I wrote this up and changed quite a few of the sentences to make them flow better, fixed grammar errors, and added a bit of info where it was necessary.

edit: should choice scarf be made into a set? i've been using it a bit recently and it puts in work against almost everything and imo is on par with band. ill wait for qc though
 
Last edited:
okay written and ready for qc. I wrote this up and changed quite a few of the sentences to make them flow better, fixed grammar errors, and added a bit of info where it was necessary.

edit: should choice scarf be made into a set? i've been using it a bit recently and it puts in work against almost everything and imo is on par with band. ill wait for qc though
Yes. Add a Choice Scarf set please.
 

Moosical

big yikes
is a Site Content Manager Alumnusis a Social Media Contributor Alumnusis a Forum Moderator Alumnusis a Community Contributor Alumnusis a Top Contributor Alumnusis a Smogon Media Contributor Alumnus
overview, other options, choice band set, and checks and counters skeleton by Misaka Mikoto. choice scarf is mine, and i revised many of the parts to include choice scarf.
[OVERVIEW]

Fairy
=======

Tapu Bulu's excellent Attack stat in conjunction with its Grassy Terrain-boosted STAB attacks makes it a great physical wallbreaker on Fairy teams. It is also able to serve as a revenge killer with Choice Scarf. Its Grass typing allows it to take on Ground, Rock, and Water teams and relieve some of the pressure from Azumarill and Tapu Koko, and it is able to sweep these teams easily with Choice Scarf. Furthermore, Tapu Bulu's access to decent coverage moves such as Superpower, Stone Edge, and Zen Headbutt allows it to check several types in the metagame. Grassy Surge provides immense support for Fairy teams, giving the team passive recovery, reducing damage dealt by Earthquake, and increasing the power of Tapu Bulu's Grass-type attacks, causing them to hit extremely hard. However, Grassy Surge also recovers the health of the opposing team, which can be disadvantageous. Tapu Bulu also still has trouble KOing certain physically defensive Pokemon, such as Skarmory, even with its amazing wallbreaking power, and it is even more walled by them when using Choice Scarf. Tapu Bulu's Grassy / Fairy typing also sports a huge weakness to Poison-type attacks, meaning users of such attacks force Tapu Bulu to switch into Klefki or Magearna. Finally, Tapu Bulu's subpar Speed stat leaves it outsped by positive-natured base 80 Speed Pokemon and Choice Scarf users, meaning it usually has to take damage before dishing it out, though with a Choice Scarf, it is able to outspeed some of them.

[SET]
name: Choice Band (Fairy)
move 1: Wood Hammer
move 2: Horn Leech
move 3: Superpower
move 4: Stone Edge / Zen Headbutt
item: Choice Band
ability: Grassy Surge
nature: Adamant
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

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

Wood Hammer is Tapu Bulu's strongest STAB attack, boosted by both Grassy Terrain and Choice Band, dealing massive damage to Pokemon that doesn't resist it at the cost of significant recoil damage. Horn Leech provides Tapu Bulu with a reliable means of recovery while still hitting hard under Grassy Terrain. Superpower hits Steel-types such as Heatran and Ferrothorn, which would otherwise completely wall Tapu Bulu. Stone Edge hits Flying- and Fire-types such as Zapdos and Volcarona, which resist Tapu Bulu's Grass-type attacks. Zen Headbutt can be used instead of Stone Edge to let Tapu Bulu hit Poison-types such as Mega Venusaur.

Set Details
========

Maximum Attack investment with an Adamant nature and Choice Band maximizes Tapu Bulu's damage output, allowing it to bust holes in the opposing team. 252 Speed EVs make Tapu Bulu as fast as possible, outpacing neutral-natured Seismitoad, which would otherwise outspeed and KO it with Sludge Wave. Grassy Surge summons Grassy Terrain upon switching in, boosting the power of Tapu Bulu's Grass-type moves, decreasing the power of Earthquake, and recovering health each turn.

Usage Tips
========

Tapu Bulu should be brought in early-game to wallbreak as much as possible to weaken foes for its teammates. It should use Wood Hammer as often as possible, as Wood Hammer deals the most damage under Grassy Terrain and weakens threats immensely. On the other hand, Horn Leech should be used when Tapu Bulu's HP is low and you want to preserve it, or if Horn Leech would still KO the foe to avoid taking unnecessary recoil damage. Tapu Bulu should attempt to advantage of Wood Hammer and Horn Leech while Grassy Terrain is active. Go for Superpower against Steel-types such as Heatran and Ferrothorn, and go for Stone Edge or Zen Headbutt against Fire- and Flying-types or Poison-types, respectively. Against Ground teams, attempt to summon Grassy Terrain as often as possible to reduce Earthquake damage. Tapu Bulu's typing also helps it switch into some attacks for its teammates, such as Garchomp's Earthquake, Xurkitree's Thunderbolt, and Azumarill's Aqua Jet. However, be wary about switching it into Tapu Fini, as Grassy Terrain makes it so Scald can potentially burn Tapu Bulu. Avoid getting Tapu Bulu worn down by entry hazards, since it needs its HP to tank hits before hitting. Similarly, avoid letting Tapu Bulu get burned, since burns halve Tapu Bulu's Attack stat, making it much less threatening. Lastly, Tapu Bulu's subpar Speed makes it vulnerable to a myriad of revenge killers, so it is best to remove faster threats before bringing Tapu Bulu in.

Team Options
========

Almost all Fairy-types appreciate Tapu Bulu's wallbreaking capabilities, ability to take on Ground-type teams, and Grassy Terrain support. Magearna's Steel typing allows it to switch into Poison- and Steel-type attacks, and Magearna can also bring Tapu Bulu in with a slow Volt Switch and apply offensive pressure to opposing teams with its impressive Special Attack and movepool. Magearna's wallbreaking capabilities can also break through threats that check Tapu Bulu, such as defensive Staraptor. Another Klefki is a Steel-type that's great for switching into incoming Poison-type moves is Klefki, which can also provide support with dual screens, Thunder Wave, and Spikes, improving Tapu Bulu's longevity, speed control, and ability to KO threats. Both of these Pokemon appreciate Grassy Terrain being active so that they can take an Earthquake from threats such as Excadrill and also appreciate the passive recovery that it grants. Tapu Koko can gain momentum for Tapu Bulu by letting it come in safely with Volt Switch or U-turn, and it easily checks Celesteela and Skarmory as well as revenge killers such as Landorus. Tapu Fini and Togekiss can provide Defog support for Tapu Bulu, keeping entry hazards off the field. Both of them can also stallbreak effectively with Taunt and Nasty Plot, respectively. The former can also weaken walls with Nature's Madness, whereas the latter can take on Grass-types such as Mega Venusaur. Choice Scarf Togekiss can also revenge kill targets such as Infernape that Tapu Bulu would struggle against. Togekiss's Babiri Berry set can also take hits from Mega Scizor and take it out with Fire Blast. Clefable is another Babiri Berry user that can also take out Mega Scizor for Tapu Bulu, and it can even provide Stealth Rock support to pressure opposing teams. Z-Belly Drum Azumarill is able to threaten Fire-types such as Mega Charizard Y and Talonflame. It also appreciates Tapu Bulu's wallbreaking capabilities early-game so that it can sweep late-game. Lastly, Gardevoir can check Poison-types thanks to its Psychic typing and can also provide Healing Wish support for Tapu Bulu.

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf (Fairy)
move 1: Wood Hammer
move 2: Horn Leech
move 3: Superpower
move 4: Stone Edge / Zen Headbutt
item: Choice Band Scarf
ability: Grassy Surge
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
  • Wood Hammer deals massive damage when boosted by STAB and Grassy Terrain and is the move Tapu Bulu will be using most of the time.
  • Horn Leech is a secondary STAB move that Tapu Bulu should use if it wants to preserve its HP and avoid taking recoil damage, especially if Horn Leech can KO a Pokemon.
  • Superpower is good coverage for taking on Steel-types like Heatran and Magnezone.
  • Stone Edge nails Flying- and Fire-types looking to switch into Wood Hammer or Horn Leech, like Charizard.
  • Alternatively, Zen Headbutt hits Poison-types, most notably Mega Venusaur, which Fairy teams tend to struggle with.

Set Details
========
  • Maximum Attack EVs give Tapu Bulu lots of offensive power.
  • Maximum Speed EVs, a Jolly nature, and a Choice Scarf allow Tapu Bulu to outspeed most unboosted Pokemon in the metagame and allow it to fulfill the role of a revenge killer; notable Pokemon it can outspeed are Greninja, Tapu Koko, and Marshadow.
  • Grassy Surge is an invaluable ability that boosts the power of Tapu Bulu's STAB attacks, gives its team passive recovery, and weakens Earthquake.
Usage Tips
========
  • Choice Scarf Tapu Bulu should be mostly used as a revenge killer, coming in after a teammate has been KOed to land a hard-hitting Wood Hammer on the opposing team; it is best to revenge kill fast, frail Pokemon like Marshadow and Greninja.
  • Similarly, it is helpful to use VoltTurn users to pivot out into Tapu Bulu to attack so it doesn't take unnecessary damage.
  • Tapu Bulu can also be used as an emergency check to some setup sweepers given that it outspeeds them, such as +1 Gyarados and Dragonite.
  • Choice Scarf Tapu Bulu also has an easy time sweeping Water, Rock, and Ground teams with Horn Leech or Wood Hammer, since it is able to outspeed almost everything, and its Grassy Terrain-boosted attacks hit very hard.
  • However, Tapu Bulu has a hard time breaking through physical walls like Skarmory and Torkoal, so they should be removed before Tapu Bulu starts spamming Wood Hammer to avoid taking unnecessary recoil damage and give those Pokemon free opportunities to switch in.
  • Use the appropriate coverage move when predicting certain threats to switch into Tapu Bulu, such as Zen Headbutt on a predicted Mega Venusaur switch in.
  • Most of the time, though, it is best to spam Wood Hammer to wallbreak as much as possible. On the other hand, use Horn Leech when Tapu Bulu is low on HP; you should also use Horn Leech when it KOes the foe.
  • Most status hinders Tapu Bulu heavily; burns diminish its power, paralysis ruins its Speed, and poison wears it down so that it is more easily revenge killed. Thus, avoid getting Tapu Bulu inflicted with status.
Team Options
========
  • Clefable can absorb troublesome status ailments for Tapu Bulu thanks to its access to Magic Guard. It also provides entry hazard support in Stealth Rock and can weaken Steel-types with Fire-type coverage.
  • Tapu Koko can deal with the physical walls that trouble Tapu Bulu, continually pivot out into Tapu Bulu with U-turn and Volt Switch, and weaken foes for Tapu Bulu to revenge kill. It also deals with the Flying-types that resist Tapu Bulu's Wood Hammer, especially Skarmory and Celesteela, and in return Tapu Bulu deals with Ground-types and other Electric-types.
  • Magearna can set up and sweep after Tapu Bulu has weakened Steel-types with Superpower and Ground-types with its Grass-type moves. Magearna also heavily appreciates Grassy Terrain support, which gives it passive recovery and halves Earthquake damage, both of which help it immensely.
  • Azumarill is another setup sweeper that can clean teams with +6 Aqua Jet after Tapu Bulu has weakened opposing Pokemon. Choice Band Azumarill is an alternative that instead punches holes in the opposing team for Tapu Bulu to clean up.
  • Klefki heavily appreciates Grassy Terrain support, which gives it passive recovery and halves Earthquake damage, both of which help it immensely. Klefki appreciates Tapu Bulu's in the same way that Magearna appreciates it. It can also set up Spikes and dual screens and provide further support with Thunder Wave, all of which help Tapu Bulu.
  • Both Magearna and Klefki can switch into Poison- and Steel-types attacks aimed at Tapu Bulu thanks to their its Steel typing.
  • Babiri Berry Togekiss and Clefable can deal sizeable damage to Skarmory, Celesteela, and Mega Scizor, all of which wall Tapu Bulu completely.
  • Togekiss also checks Mega Venusaur thanks to its Flying typing and Serene Grace Air Slash.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============

Fairy
--------
Swords Dance with a Life Orb boosts Tapu Bulu's Attack stat by two stages and lets it avoid having to lock into a move at the cost of a bit of health each turn; however, Skarmory still walls Tapu Bulu even after a boost and Tapu Bulu misses out on the immediate power. Substitute + Leech Seed can be used to stall out the opposing threat by slowly depleting its health with Leech Seed while avoiding damage with Substitute. Thanks to Tapu Bulu's average Speed, it can set up another Substitute if attacked and the Substitute is broken; however, this combination can be easily walled, and powerful attackers can pressure Tapu Bulu.

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

Fairy
--------
**Skarmory and Celesteela**: Skarmory and Celesteela completely wall Tapu Bulu because of their excellent defensive typing and bulk. The former can stall Tapu Bulu with Roost while KOing Tapu Bulu with Brave Bird or Iron Head, and the latter KOes it with Heavy Slam or Flamethrower. Choice Scarf Tapu Bulu has it even worse, unable to do any sorts of meaningful damage to either.

**Mega Venusaur**: Mega Venusaur walls Tapu Bulu's Grass-type attacks, resists Superpower, and doesn't take much damage from Stone Edge. Tapu Bulu has to rely on Zen Headbutt to deal reasonable damage to it, but it is KO'd by an incoming Sludge Bomb.

**Poison-types**: Poison-type Pokemon such as Nidoking and Gengar can threaten Tapu Bulu with their Poison-type attacks; however, they need to be wary of Tapu Bulu's Zen Headbutt, and most Poison-types cannot switch into Wood Hammer.

**Steel-types**: Tapu Bulu has to rely on Superpower to beat most Steel-types such as Heatran, Magnezone, and Ferrothorn. Mega Scizor can tank all of its attacks and use it to set up Swords Dance.

**Fire-types**: Several Fire-types such as Mega Charizard X, Volcarona, and Talonflame resist Tapu Bulu's Grass-type attacks and can threaten it with their STAB moves. However, they should be wary of switching into a Stone Edge.

**Grass-types**: Grass-types wall Tapu Bulu easily, and many of them, such as Serperior, can take advantage of Grassy Terrain.

**Revenge Killers**: Revenge killers, especially Choice Scarf users such as Nihilego and Victini, can easily outspeed and KO Tapu Bulu.

**Status**: Tapu Bulu doesn't appreciate being inflicted with status; burns heavily diminish Tapu Bulu's wallbreaking capabilities, poison hurts its longevity, and paralysis reduces Tapu Bulu's already lacking Speed.
AM Check, doesn't count as official, only include if you agree with what I changed. Looks good, mostly needs to be cleaned up because of the Magearna ban. I think you also need to include Mega Gardevoir and Mega Diancie in the team options section before an official QC can go through. I also personally think the Choice Scarf set should go before the Choice Band set, as it's used more frequently.
 

lotiasite

undedgy
is a Forum Moderatoris a Top Contributoris a Smogon Media Contributoris a Social Media Contributor Alumnus
AM Check, doesn't count as official, only include if you agree with what I changed. Looks good, mostly needs to be cleaned up because of the Magearna ban. I think you also need to include Mega Gardevoir and Mega Diancie in the team options section before an official QC can go through. I also personally think the Choice Scarf set should go before the Choice Band set, as it's used more frequently.
did those. removed all magearna mentions (im pretty sure), added diancie and garde mentions in TO, and made scarf the first set cause i also agree with that. i hadnt gotten to adding new things cause this analysis has been sitting for over 2 months at this point, so thanks for reviving it and reminding me. could we have an actual qc now :p
 
Choice Scarf:
Remove Zen Headbutt from this set entirely. It can't 2HKO Mega Venusaur without Choice Band's power.

Usage Tips:
- Choice Scarf Tapu Bulu's main motivation is beating Ground. As a result, I think we should have matchup-specific tips for it. First, definitely include that Tapu Bulu needs to be careful about using Wood Hammer if there are no entry hazards on the field, as Focus Sash Dugtrio can still beat it and it's possible for Garchomp to survive and damage Tapu Bulu with Rough Skin twice.
- Definitely talk about keeping Grassy Terrain active as much as possible to protect your teammates from Earthquake and to provide healing.

OO:
Instead of Life Orb, Fightinium Z should be used for the extra power, which lets it actually drop certain walls:
+2 252+ Atk Tapu Bulu All-Out Pummeling (190 BP) vs. 248 HP / 244+ Def Mandibuzz: 318-375 (75.1 - 88.6%) -- guaranteed OHKO after Stealth Rock

Also add Jolly as an option for non-Choice Scarf sets to prevent Timid Seismitoad from outspeeding it and to beat Adamant Diggersby.

Looks good. Good job. QC 1/3
 

iLlama

Nothing personal, I protect my people
Amcheck, implement what you agree with and leave the rest for QC.
overview, other options, choice band set, and checks and counters skeleton by Misaka Mikoto. choice scarf is mine, and i revised many of the parts to include choice scarf.
[OVERVIEW]

Fairy
=======

Tapu Bulu's excellent Attack stat in conjunction with its Grassy Terrain-boosted STAB attacks makes it a great physical wallbreaker on Fairy teams. It is also able to serve as a revenge killer with Choice Scarf. Its Grass typing allows it to take on Ground, Rock, and Water teams and relieve some of the pressure from Azumarill and Tapu Koko, and it is able to sweep these teams easily with Choice Scarf. Furthermore, Tapu Bulu's access to decent coverage moves such as Superpower, Stone Edge, and Zen Headbutt allows it to check several types in the metagame. Grassy Surge provides immense support for Fairy teams, giving the team passive recovery, reducing damage dealt by Earthquake, and increasing the power of Tapu Bulu's Grass-type attacks, causing them to hit extremely hard. However, Grassy Surge also recovers the health of the opposing team, which can be disadvantageous. Tapu Bulu also still has trouble KOing certain physically defensive Pokemon, such as Skarmory, even with its amazing wallbreaking power, and it is even more walled by them when using Choice Scarf. Tapu Bulu's Grassy / Fairy typing also sports a huge weakness to Poison-type attacks, meaning users of such attacks force Tapu Bulu to switch into Klefki. Finally, Tapu Bulu's subpar Speed stat leaves it outsped by positive-natured base 80 Speed Pokemon and Choice Scarf users, meaning it usually has to take damage before dishing it out, though with a Choice Scarf, it is able to outspeed some of them.

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf (Fairy)
move 1: Wood Hammer
move 2: Horn Leech
move 3: Superpower
move 4: Stone Edge
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Grassy Surge
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
  • Wood Hammer deals massive damage when boosted by STAB and Grassy Terrain and is the move Tapu Bulu will be using most of the time.
  • Horn Leech is a secondary STAB move that Tapu Bulu should use if it wants to preserve its HP and avoid taking recoil damage, especially if Horn Leech can KO a Pokemon.
  • Superpower is good coverage for taking on Steel-types like Heatran and Magnezone.
  • Stone Edge nails Flying- and Fire-types looking to switch into Wood Hammer or Horn Leech, like Charizard.

Set Details
========
  • Maximum Attack EVs give Tapu Bulu lots of offensive power.
  • Maximum Speed EVs, a Jolly nature, and a Choice Scarf allow Tapu Bulu to outspeed most unboosted Pokemon in the metagame and allow it to fulfill the role of a revenge killer; notable Pokemon it can outspeed are Greninja and Tapu Koko.
  • Grassy Surge is an invaluable ability that boosts the power of Tapu Bulu's STAB attacks, gives its team passive recovery, and weakens Earthquake.
Usage Tips
========
  • Choice Scarf Tapu Bulu should be mostly used as a revenge killer, coming in after a teammate has been KOed to land a hard-hitting Wood Hammer on the opposing team; it is best to revenge kill fast, frail Pokemon like Marshadow and Greninja. Remove Marshadow since it's banned in Monotype.
  • Similarly, it is helpful to use VoltTurn users to pivot out into Tapu Bulu to attack so it doesn't take unnecessary damage.
  • Tapu Bulu can also be used as an emergency check to some setup sweepers given that it outspeeds them, such as +1 Gyarados and Dragonite.
  • You should aim to keep Grassy Terrain active as often as possible to weaken Earthquake and heal teammates. Don't use second person.
  • Choice Scarf Tapu Bulu also has an easy time sweeping Water, Rock, and Ground teams with Horn Leech or Wood Hammer, since it is able to outspeed almost everything and its Grassy Terrain-boosted attacks hit very hard.
  • Against Ground teams specifically, be wary of using Wood Hammer if there are no entry hazards on the opposing side, as Focus Sash Dugtrio can sometimes trap and remove Tapu Bulu and Garchomp is able to survive Wood Hammer without hazard damage and chip at Tapu Bulu with Rough Skin.
  • However, Tapu Bulu has a hard time breaking through physical walls like Skarmory and Torkoal, so they should be removed before Tapu Bulu starts spamming Wood Hammer to avoid taking unnecessary recoil damage and give those Pokemon free opportunities to switch in. This tip is pretty misleading, since all three of the types being alluded to have few mons that Wood Hammer will do more damage to than Superpower or Stone Edge.
  • Use the appropriate coverage move when predicting certain threats to switch into Tapu Bulu, such as Stone Edge when predicting a Flying-type to switch in.
  • Most of the time, though, it is best to spam Wood Hammer to wallbreak as much as possible. On the other hand, use Horn Leech when Tapu Bulu is low on HP; you should also use Horn Leech when it KOes the foe. You can probably add the first sentence into your first point by saying that Wood Hammer is very spammable. The second sentence you can make its own point.
  • Most status hinders Tapu Bulu heavily; burns diminish its power, paralysis ruins its Speed, and poison wears it down so that it is more easily revenge killed. Thus, avoid getting Tapu Bulu inflicted with status.
Team Options
========
  • Clefable can absorb troublesome status ailments for Tapu Bulu thanks to its access to Magic Guard. It also provides entry hazard support in Stealth Rock and can weaken Steel-types with Fire-type coverage.
  • Mega Diancie can also deflect status and is a great wallbreaker that can assist Tapu Bulu; in particular, it's able to check Poison-types and appreciates Tapu Bulu breaking down Steel-types with Superpower. Mega Diancie in turn is aided by Grassy Terrain weakening Earthquake and giving it passive healing.
  • Tapu Koko and Mega Gardevoir can deal with the physical walls that trouble Tapu Bulu. Tapu Koko can continually pivot into Tapu Bulu with U-turn and Volt Switch, and weaken foes for Tapu Bulu to revenge kill. It also deals with the Flying-types that resist Tapu Bulu's Wood Hammer, especially Skarmory and Celesteela, and Tapu Bulu deals with Ground-types and other Electric-types in return.
  • Azumarill is another a setup sweeper that can clean teams with +6 Aqua Jet after Tapu Bulu has weakened opposing Pokemon. Choice Band Azumarill is an alternative that instead punches holes in the opposing team for Tapu Bulu to clean up.
  • Klefki can set up Spikes and dual screens and provide further support with Thunder Wave, all of which help Tapu Bulu, and it can also switch into Poison- and Steel-types attacks aimed at Tapu Bulu thanks to their Steel typing. Klefki heavily appreciates Grassy Terrain support as well, which halves Earthquake damage and gives it passive recovery. Klefki can also act as a setup check through Foul Play which helps in checking threats like Mega Scizor.
  • Babiri Berry Togekiss and Clefable can deal sizeable damage to Skarmory, Celesteela, and Mega Scizor, all of which wall Tapu Bulu completely. You aren't mentioning exactly what Babiri allows these Pokemon to do, which is check Steel Pokemon.
  • Togekiss also checks Mega Venusaur thanks to its Flying typing and Serene Grace Air Slash.

[SET]
name: Choice Band (Fairy)
move 1: Wood Hammer
move 2: Horn Leech
move 3: Superpower
move 4: Stone Edge / Zen Headbutt
item: Choice Band
ability: Grassy Surge
nature: Adamant
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

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

Wood Hammer is Tapu Bulu's strongest STAB attack, boosted by both Grassy Terrain and Choice Band, dealing massive damage to Pokemon that doesn't resist it at the cost of significant recoil damage. Horn Leech provides Tapu Bulu with a reliable means of recovery while still hitting hard under Grassy Terrain. Superpower hits Steel-types such as Heatran and Ferrothorn, which would otherwise completely wall Tapu Bulu. Stone Edge hits Flying- and Fire-types such as Zapdos and Volcarona, which resist Tapu Bulu's Grass-type attacks. Zen Headbutt can be used instead of Stone Edge to let Tapu Bulu hit Poison-types such as Mega Venusaur.

Set Details
========

Maximum Attack investment with an Adamant nature and Choice Band maximizes Tapu Bulu's damage output, allowing it to bust holes in the opposing team. 252 Speed EVs make Tapu Bulu as fast as possible, outpacing neutral-natured Seismitoad, which would otherwise outspeed and KO it with Sludge Wave. Grassy Surge summons Grassy Terrain upon switching in, boosting the power of Tapu Bulu's Grass-type moves, decreasing the power of Earthquake, and recovering health each turn.

Usage Tips
========

Tapu Bulu should be brought in early-game to wallbreak as much as possible to weaken foes for its teammates. It should use Wood Hammer as often as possible, as Wood Hammer deals the most damage under Grassy Terrain and weakens threats immensely. On the other hand, Horn Leech should be used when Tapu Bulu's HP is low and you want to preserve it, or if Horn Leech would still KO the foe to avoid taking unnecessary recoil damage. Tapu Bulu should attempt to advantage of Wood Hammer and Horn Leech while Grassy Terrain is active. Go for Superpower against Steel-types such as Heatran and Ferrothorn, and go for Stone Edge or Zen Headbutt against Fire- and Flying-types or Poison-types, respectively. Aim to keep Grassy Terrain up as much as possible to provide passive healing for teammates and reduce Earthquake damage, especially against Ground teams. Tapu Bulu's typing also helps it switch into some attacks for its teammates, such as Garchomp's Earthquake, Xurkitree's Thunderbolt, and Azumarill's Aqua Jet. However, be wary about switching it into Tapu Fini, as Grassy Terrain makes it so Scald can potentially burn Tapu Bulu. Avoid getting Tapu Bulu worn down by entry hazards, since it needs its HP to tank hits before hitting. Similarly, avoid letting Tapu Bulu get burned, since burns halve Tapu Bulu's Attack stat, making it much less threatening. Lastly, Tapu Bulu's subpar Speed makes it vulnerable to a myriad of revenge killers, so it is best to remove faster threats before bringing Tapu Bulu in.

Team Options
========

Almost all Fairy-types appreciate Tapu Bulu's wallbreaking capabilities, ability to take on Ground-type teams, and Grassy Terrain support. Klefki's Steel typing allows it to switch into Poison-type moves for Tapu Bulu, and it can also provide support with dual screens, Thunder Wave, and Spikes, improving Tapu Bulu's longevity, speed control, and ability to KO threats. Klefki also appreciates Grassy Terrain weakening Earthquake from threats like Excadrill and granting it passive recovery. Mega Diancie can also deal with some Poison-types, and Magic Bounce lets it beat down some defensive and support Pokemon. Tapu Koko can gain momentum for Tapu Bulu by letting it come in safely with Volt Switch or U-turn, and it easily checks Celesteela and Skarmory as well as revenge killers such as Landorus. Tapu Fini and Togekiss can provide Defog support for Tapu Bulu, keeping entry hazards off the field. Both of them can also stallbreak effectively with Taunt and Nasty Plot, respectively. The former can also weaken walls with Nature's Madness, whereas the latter can take on Grass-types such as Mega Venusaur. Choice Scarf Togekiss can also revenge kill targets such as Infernape that Tapu Bulu would struggle against. Togekiss's Babiri Berry set can also take hits from Mega Scizor and take it out with Fire Blast. Clefable is another Babiri Berry user that can also take out Mega Scizor for Tapu Bulu, and it can even provide Stealth Rock support to pressure opposing teams. Z-Belly Drum Azumarill is able to threaten Fire-types such as Mega Charizard Y and Talonflame and appreciates Tapu Bulu's wallbreaking capabilities early-game so that it can sweep late-game. Lastly, Mega Gardevoir can check select Poison-types like Mega Venusaur thanks to its Psychic typing and is a powerful wallbreaker that can punch holes into opposing teams.

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

Fairy
--------
Swords Dance with Fightinium Z gives Tapu Bulu amazing power and can let it break through some walls, but Choice Scarf's Speed boost and Choice Band's immediate power boost are generally preferred. Substitute + Leech Seed can be used to stall out the opposing threat by slowly depleting its health with Leech Seed while avoiding damage with Substitute. Thanks to Tapu Bulu's average Speed, it can set up another Substitute if attacked and the Substitute is broken; however, this combination can be easily walled, and powerful attackers can pressure Tapu Bulu. A Jolly nature is an option for non-Choice Scarf sets to allow Tapu Bulu to outspeed both Timid Seismitoad and Adamant Diggersby.

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

Fairy
--------
**Skarmory and Celesteela**: Skarmory and Celesteela completely wall Tapu Bulu because of their excellent defensive typing and bulk. The former can stall Tapu Bulu with Roost while KOing Tapu Bulu with Brave Bird or Iron Head, and the latter KOes it with Heavy Slam or Flamethrower. Choice Scarf Tapu Bulu has it even worse, unable to do any sorts of meaningful damage to either.

**Mega Venusaur**: Mega Venusaur walls Tapu Bulu's Grass-type attacks, resists Superpower, doesn't take much damage from Stone Edge, and can OHKO Tapu Bulu with Sludge Bomb. Tapu Bulu has to rely on Zen Headbutt to deal reasonable damage to it.

**Poison-types**: Poison-type Pokemon such as Nidoking and Gengar can threaten Tapu Bulu with their Poison-type attacks; however, they need to be wary of Tapu Bulu's Zen Headbutt, and most Poison-types cannot switch into Wood Hammer.

**Steel-types**: Tapu Bulu has to rely on Superpower to beat most Steel-types such as Heatran, Magnezone, and Ferrothorn. Mega Scizor can tank all of its attacks and use it to set up Swords Dance.

**Fire-types**: Several Fire-types such as Mega Charizard X, Volcarona, and Talonflame resist Tapu Bulu's Grass-type attacks and can threaten it with their STAB moves. However, they should be wary of switching into a Stone Edge.

**Grass-types**: Grass-types wall Tapu Bulu easily, and many of them, such as Serperior, can take advantage of Grassy Terrain.

**Revenge Killers**: Revenge killers, especially Choice Scarf users such as Nihilego and Victini, can easily outspeed and KO Tapu Bulu.

**Status**: Tapu Bulu doesn't appreciate being inflicted with status; burns heavily diminish Tapu Bulu's wallbreaking capabilities, poison hurts its longevity, and paralysis reduces Tapu Bulu's already lacking Speed.
Only looked at the Scarf set since Band was already completed.
 

lotiasite

undedgy
is a Forum Moderatoris a Top Contributoris a Smogon Media Contributoris a Social Media Contributor Alumnus
Amcheck, implement what you agree with and leave the rest for QC.

Only looked at the Scarf set since Band was already completed.
did most of those things. second person is generally fine, so i didnt touch that. not sure what you meant by the 3rd thing you talked about (using wood hammer vs physical walls thing), but they can continually switch into bulu pretty easily so they should be removed.
 

iLlama

Nothing personal, I protect my people
did most of those things. second person is generally fine, so i didnt touch that. not sure what you meant by the 3rd thing you talked about (using wood hammer vs physical walls thing), but they can continually switch into bulu pretty easily so they should be removed.
The bit about Wood Hammer is misleading because the example walls mentioned are all on types that Wood Hammer isn't the best option to use for attacking. The argument that Bulu needs support to break down physical walls first before using Wood Hammer is fine, but having examples on types that would constitute not using Wood Hammer over another move in general doesn't support the point. You're alluding to the fact that you would usually use Wood Hammer against the types that Torkoal and Skarmory are on, which isn't the case.
 

lotiasite

undedgy
is a Forum Moderatoris a Top Contributoris a Smogon Media Contributoris a Social Media Contributor Alumnus
The bit about Wood Hammer is misleading because the example walls mentioned are all on types that Wood Hammer isn't the best option to use for attacking. The argument that Bulu needs support to break down physical walls first before using Wood Hammer is fine, but having examples on types that would constitute not using Wood Hammer over another move in general doesn't support the point. You're alluding to the fact that you would usually use Wood Hammer against the types that Torkoal and Skarmory are on, which isn't the case.
ah, alright. replaced the examples with porygon2 and zapdos
 

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
[OVERVIEW]

Fairy
=======

Tapu Bulu's excellent Attack stat in conjunction with its Grassy Terrain-boosted STAB attacks makes it a great physical wallbreaker on Fairy teams. It is also able to serve as a revenge killer with Choice Scarf. Its Grass typing allows it to take on Ground, Rock, and Water teams and relieve some of the pressure from Azumarill and Tapu Koko, and it is able to sweep these teams easily with Choice Scarf. Furthermore, Tapu Bulu's access to decent coverage moves such as Superpower, Stone Edge, and Zen Headbutt allows it to check several types in the metagame. Grassy Surge provides immense support for Fairy teams, giving the team passive recovery (RC) and reducing damage dealt by Earthquake, and increasing the power of Tapu Bulu's Grass-type attacks, causing them to hit extremely hard. (repeated) However, Grassy Surge it also recovers the health of the opposing team, which can be disadvantageous. Tapu Bulu also still has trouble KOing certain physically defensive Pokemon, such as Skarmory, even with its amazing wallbreaking power, and it is even more walled by them when using Choice Scarf. Tapu Bulu's Grassy / Fairy typing also sports leaves it with a huge weakness to Poison-type attacks, meaning users of such attacks force Tapu Bulu to switch into out to Klefki. Finally, Tapu Bulu's subpar Speed stat leaves it outsped by positive-natured base 80 Speed Pokemon and Choice Scarf users, meaning it usually has to take damage before dishing it out, though with a Choice Scarf, it is able to outspeed some of them.

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf (Fairy)
move 1: Wood Hammer
move 2: Horn Leech
move 3: Superpower
move 4: Stone Edge
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Grassy Surge
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

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

STAB Wood Hammer deals massive damage when boosted by Grassy Terrain and is the move Tapu Bulu should use most of the time. Horn Leech is a secondary STAB move that Tapu Bulu should use if it wants to preserve its HP and avoid taking recoil damage, especially if Horn Leech can KO the opposing Pokemon. Superpower is good coverage for taking on Steel-types like Heatran and Magnezone. Stone Edge nails Flying- and Fire-types like Charizard looking to switch into Wood Hammer or Horn Leech.

Set Details
========

252 Attack EVs maximize Tapu Bulu's power. Maximum Speed EVs, a Jolly nature, and a Choice Scarf allow Tapu Bulu to outspeed most unboosted Pokemon in the metagame and fulfill the role of a revenge killer; notable Pokemon it can outspeed are Greninja and Tapu Koko. Grassy Surge is an invaluable ability that boosts the power of Tapu Bulu's STAB attacks, gives its team passive recovery, and weakens Earthquake.

Usage Tips
========

Choice Scarf Tapu Bulu should be mostly used as a revenge killer, coming in after a teammate has been KOed to land a hard-hitting Wood Hammer on the opposing team. It is best to revenge kill fast, frail Pokemon like Greninja. Wood Hammer is also a very spammable attack in general and should be used to wallbreak as much as possible. On the other hand, use Horn Leech when Tapu Bulu is low on HP; you should also use Horn Leech when it KOes is sufficient to KO the foe to avoid taking unnecessary recoil. It is helpful to use VoltTurn users to pivot out into Tapu Bulu to attack so it doesn't take unnecessary damage. Tapu Bulu can also be used as an emergency check to some setup sweepers given that it outspeeds them, such as +1 Gyarados and Dragonite. You should aim to keep Grassy Terrain active as often as possible to weaken Earthquake and heal teammates. Choice Scarf Tapu Bulu also has an easy time sweeping Water, Rock, and Ground teams with Horn Leech or Wood Hammer, since it is able to outspeed almost everything and its Grassy Terrain-boosted attacks hit very hard. Against Ground teams specifically, be wary of using Wood Hammer if there are no entry hazards on the opposing side, as Focus Sash Dugtrio can sometimes trap and remove Tapu Bulu, (AC) and Garchomp is able to survive Wood Hammer without hazard damage and chip at Tapu Bulu with Rough Skin. However, against other teams, (transition, feel free to modify as appropriate) Tapu Bulu has a hard time breaking through physical walls like Porygon2 and Zapdos, so they should be removed before Tapu Bulu starts spamming Wood Hammer to avoid taking unnecessary recoil damage and giving those Pokemon free opportunities to switch in. Use the appropriate coverage move when predicting certain threats to switch into Tapu Bulu, such as Stone Edge when predicting a Flying-type to switch in. Most status hinders Tapu Bulu heavily; burns diminish its power, paralysis ruins its Speed, and poison wears it down so that it is more easily revenge killed. Thus, avoid getting Tapu Bulu inflicted with status.

Team Options
========

Clefable can absorb troublesome status ailments for Tapu Bulu thanks to its access to Magic Guard. It also provides entry hazard support in Stealth Rock and can weaken Steel-types with Fire-type coverage. Mega Diancie can also deflect reflect status and is a great wallbreaker that can assist Tapu Bulu; in particular, it can check Poison-types, appreciates Tapu Bulu breaking down Steel-types with Superpower, and benefits from Grassy Terrain giving it recovery and weakening Earthquake. Tapu Koko and Mega Gardevoir can deal with the physical walls that trouble Tapu Bulu. Tapu Koko can also continually pivot into Tapu Bulu with U-turn and Volt Switch, weaken foes for Tapu Bulu to revenge kill, and deal with the Flying-types that resist Tapu Bulu's Wood Hammer, especially Skarmory and Celesteela. Tapu Bulu deals with Ground-types and other Electric-types in return. Azumarill can clean teams with +6 Aqua Jet after Tapu Bulu has weakened opposing Pokemon. Klefki can set up Spikes and dual screens and provide further support with Thunder Wave, switch into Poison- and Steel-types attacks aimed at Tapu Bulu thanks to its Steel typing, and act as an emergency check to some sweepers with Foul Play. Klefki heavily appreciates Grassy Terrain support as well, which halves Earthquake damage and gives it passive recovery. Babiri Berry Togekiss and Clefable can check Steel-types and deal sizeable damage to Skarmory, Celesteela, and Mega Scizor, all of which wall Tapu Bulu. Togekiss also checks Mega Venusaur thanks to its Flying typing and Serene Grace Air Slash.

[SET]
name: Choice Band (Fairy)
move 1: Wood Hammer
move 2: Horn Leech
move 3: Superpower
move 4: Stone Edge / Zen Headbutt
item: Choice Band
ability: Grassy Surge
nature: Adamant
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

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

Wood Hammer is Tapu Bulu's strongest STAB attack, boosted by both Grassy Terrain and Choice Band, dealing massive damage to Pokemon that doesn't resist it at the cost of significant recoil damage. Horn Leech provides Tapu Bulu with a reliable means of recovery while still hitting hard under Grassy Terrain. Superpower hits Steel-types such as Heatran and Ferrothorn, which would otherwise completely wall Tapu Bulu. Stone Edge hits Flying- and Fire-types such as Zapdos and Volcarona, which resist Tapu Bulu's Grass-type attacks. Zen Headbutt can be used instead of Stone Edge to let Tapu Bulu hit Poison-types such as Mega Venusaur.

Set Details
========

Maximum Attack investment with an Adamant nature and Choice Band maximizes Tapu Bulu's damage output, allowing it to bust holes in the opposing team. 252 Speed EVs make Tapu Bulu as fast as possible, outpacing neutral-natured Seismitoad, which would otherwise outspeed it and KO it with Sludge Wave. Grassy Surge summons Grassy Terrain upon switching in, boosting the power of Tapu Bulu's Grass-type moves, decreasing the power of Earthquake, and recovering health each turn.

Usage Tips
========

Tapu Bulu should be brought in early-game to wallbreak as much as possible to weaken foes for its teammates. It should use Wood Hammer as often as possible, as Wood Hammer deals the most damage under Grassy Terrain and weakens threats immensely. On the other hand, Horn Leech should be used when Tapu Bulu's HP is low and you want to preserve it, or if Horn Leech would still KO the foe to avoid taking unnecessary recoil damage. Tapu Bulu should attempt to advantage of Wood Hammer and Horn Leech while Grassy Terrain is active. Go for Superpower against Steel-types such as Heatran and Ferrothorn, and go for Stone Edge or Zen Headbutt against Fire- and Flying-types or Poison-types, respectively. Aim to keep Grassy Terrain up as much as possible to provide passive healing for teammates and reduce Earthquake damage, especially against Ground teams. Tapu Bulu's typing also helps it switch into some attacks for its teammates, such as Garchomp's Earthquake, Xurkitree's Thunderbolt, and Azumarill's Aqua Jet. However, be wary about switching it into Tapu Fini, as Grassy Terrain makes it so overriding Mistt Surge allows Scald can to potentially burn Tapu Bulu. Avoid getting Tapu Bulu worn down by entry hazards, since it needs its HP to tank hits before hitting. Similarly, avoid letting Tapu Bulu get burned, since burns halve Tapu Bulu's Attack stat, making it much less threatening. Lastly, Tapu Bulu's subpar Speed makes it vulnerable to a myriad of revenge killers, so it is best to remove faster threats before bringing Tapu Bulu in.

Team Options
========

Almost all Fairy-types appreciate Tapu Bulu's wallbreaking capabilities, ability to take on Ground-type teams, and Grassy Terrain support. Klefki's Steel typing allows it to switch into Poison-type moves for Tapu Bulu, and it can also provide support with dual screens, Thunder Wave, and Spikes, improving Tapu Bulu's longevity, speed control, and ability to KO threats. Klefki also appreciates Grassy Terrain weakening Earthquake from threats like Excadrill and granting it passive recovery. Mega Diancie can also deal with some Poison-types, and Magic Bounce lets it beat down some defensive and support Pokemon. Tapu Koko can gain momentum for Tapu Bulu by letting it come in safely with Volt Switch or U-turn, and it easily checks Celesteela and Skarmory as well as revenge killers such as Landorus. Tapu Fini and Togekiss can provide Defog support for Tapu Bulu, keeping entry hazards off the field. Both of them can also stallbreak effectively with Taunt and Nasty Plot, respectively. The former can also weaken walls with Nature's Madness, whereas the latter can take on Grass-types such as Mega Venusaur. Choice Scarf Togekiss can also revenge kill targets such as Infernape that Tapu Bulu would struggle against. Togekiss's Babiri Berry set can also take hits from Mega Scizor and take it out with Fire Blast. Clefable is another Babiri Berry user that can also take out Mega Scizor for Tapu Bulu, and it can even provide Stealth Rock support to pressure opposing teams. Z-Belly Drum Azumarill is able to threaten Fire-types such as Mega Charizard Y and Talonflame and appreciates Tapu Bulu's wallbreaking capabilities early-game so that it can sweep late-game. Lastly, Mega Gardevoir can check select Poison-types like Mega Venusaur thanks to its Psychic typing and is a powerful wallbreaker that can punch holes into opposing teams.

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

Fairy
--------
Swords Dance with Fightinium Z gives Tapu Bulu amazing power and can let it break through some walls, but Choice Scarf's Speed boost and Choice Band's immediate power boost are generally preferred. Substitute + Leech Seed can be used to stall out the opposing threat by slowly depleting its health with Leech Seed while avoiding damage with Substitute. Thanks to Tapu Bulu's average Speed, it can set up another Substitute if attacked and the Substitute is broken; however, this combination can be easily walled, and powerful attackers can pressure Tapu Bulu. A Jolly nature is an option for non-Choice Scarf sets to allow Tapu Bulu to outspeed both Timid Seismitoad and Adamant Diggersby.

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

Fairy
--------
**Skarmory and Celesteela**: Skarmory and Celesteela completely wall Tapu Bulu because of their excellent defensive typing and bulk. The former can stall Tapu Bulu with Roost while KOing Tapu Bulu with Brave Bird or Iron Head, and the latter KOes it with Heavy Slam or Flamethrower. Choice Scarf Tapu Bulu has it even worse, unable to do any sorts of meaningful damage to either.

**Mega Venusaur**: Mega Venusaur walls Tapu Bulu's Grass-type attacks, resists Superpower, doesn't take much damage from Stone Edge, and can OHKO Tapu Bulu with Sludge Bomb. Tapu Bulu has to rely on Zen Headbutt to deal reasonable damage to it.

**Poison-types**: Poison-type Pokemon such as Nidoking and Gengar can threaten Tapu Bulu with their Poison-type STAB attacks; however, they need to be wary of Tapu Bulu's Zen Headbutt, and most Poison-types cannot switch into Wood Hammer.

**Steel-types**: Tapu Bulu has to rely on Superpower to beat most Steel-types such as Heatran, Magnezone, and Ferrothorn. Mega Scizor can tank all of its attacks and use it to set up Swords Dance.

**Fire-types**: Several Fire-types such as Mega Charizard X, Volcarona, and Talonflame resist Tapu Bulu's Grass-type attacks and can threaten it with their STAB moves. However, they should be wary of switching into a Stone Edge.

**Grass-types**: Grass-types wall Tapu Bulu easily, and many of them, such as Serperior, can take advantage of Grassy Terrain.

**Revenge Killers**: Revenge killers, especially Choice Scarf users such as Nihilego and Victini, can easily outspeed and KO Tapu Bulu.

**Status**: Tapu Bulu doesn't appreciate being inflicted with status; burns heavily diminish Tapu Bulu's wallbreaking capabilities, poison hurts its longevity, and paralysis reduces Tapu Bulu's already lacking Speed.
 
Last edited:

GP 2/2
remove add

[OVERVIEW]

Fairy
=======

Tapu Bulu's excellent Attack stat in conjunction with its Grassy Terrain-boosted STAB attacks makes it a great physical wallbreaker on Fairy teams. It is also able to serve as a revenge killer with Choice Scarf. Its Grass typing allows it to take on Ground, Rock, and Water teams and relieve some of the pressure from on Azumarill and Tapu Koko, and it is able to sweep these teams easily with Choice Scarf. Furthermore, Tapu Bulu's access to decent coverage moves such as Superpower, Stone Edge, and Zen Headbutt allows it to check several types in the metagame. Grassy Surge provides immense support for Fairy teams, giving the team passive recovery and reducing damage dealt by Earthquake. However, it also recovers the health of the opposing team, which can be disadvantageous. Also, Tapu Bulu also still has trouble KOing certain physically defensive Pokemon, such as Skarmory, even with its amazing wallbreaking power, and it is even more easily walled by them when using Choice Scarf. Tapu Bulu's Grassy / Fairy typing also leaves it with a huge weakness to Poison-type attacks, meaning users of such attacks force Tapu Bulu to switch out to Klefki. Finally, Tapu Bulu's subpar Speed stat leaves it outsped by positive-natured base 80 Speed Pokemon and Choice Scarf users, meaning it usually has to take damage before dishing it out, though with a Choice Scarf, it is able to outspeed some of them.

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf (Fairy)
move 1: Wood Hammer
move 2: Horn Leech
move 3: Superpower
move 4: Stone Edge
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Grassy Surge
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

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

STAB Wood Hammer deals massive damage when boosted by Grassy Terrain and is the move Tapu Bulu should use most of the time. Horn Leech is a secondary STAB move that Tapu Bulu should use if it wants to preserve its HP and avoid taking recoil damage, especially if Horn Leech can KO the opposing Pokemon. Superpower is good coverage for taking on Steel-types like Heatran and Magnezone. Stone Edge nails Flying- and Fire-types like Charizard looking to switch into Wood Hammer or Horn Leech.

Set Details
========

252 Attack EVs maximize Tapu Bulu's power. Maximum Speed EVs, a Jolly nature, and a Choice Scarf allow Tapu Bulu to outspeed most unboosted Pokemon in the metagame and fulfill the role of a revenge killer; notable Pokemon it can outspeed are Greninja and Tapu Koko. Grassy Surge is an invaluable ability that boosts the power of Tapu Bulu's STAB attacks, gives its team passive recovery, and weakens Earthquake.

Usage Tips
========

Choice Scarf Tapu Bulu should be mostly used as a revenge killer, coming in after a teammate has been KOed to land a hard-hitting Wood Hammer on the opposing team. It is best to revenge kill fast, frail Pokemon like Greninja. Wood Hammer is also a very spammable attack in general and should be used to wallbreak as much as possible. On the other hand, use Horn Leech when Tapu Bulu is low on HP; you should also use Horn Leech when it is sufficient to KO the foe to avoid taking unnecessary recoil. It is helpful to use VoltTurn users to pivot out into Tapu Bulu to attack so it doesn't take unnecessary damage. Tapu Bulu can also be used as an emergency check to some setup sweepers given that it outspeeds them, such as +1 Gyarados and Dragonite. You should aim to keep Grassy Terrain active as often as possible to weaken Earthquake and heal teammates. Choice Scarf Tapu Bulu also has an easy time sweeping Water, Rock, and Ground teams with Horn Leech or Wood Hammer, since it is able to outspeed almost everything and its Grassy Terrain-boosted attacks hit very hard. Against Ground teams specifically, be wary of using Wood Hammer if there are no entry hazards on the opposing side, as Focus Sash Dugtrio can sometimes trap and remove Tapu Bulu, and Garchomp is able to survive Wood Hammer without hazard damage and chip away at Tapu Bulu with Rough Skin. However, against other teams, Tapu Bulu has a hard time breaking through physical walls like Porygon2 and Zapdos, so they should be removed before Tapu Bulu starts spamming Wood Hammer to avoid taking unnecessary recoil damage and giving those Pokemon free opportunities to switch in. Use the appropriate coverage move when predicting certain threats to switch into Tapu Bulu, such as Stone Edge when predicting a Flying-type to switch in. Most status hinders Tapu Bulu heavily; Avoid getting Tapu Bulu inflicted with status; burns diminish its power, paralysis ruins its Speed, and poison wears it down so that it is more easily revenge killed. Thus, avoid getting Tapu Bulu inflicted with status.

Team Options
========

Clefable can absorb troublesome status ailments for Tapu Bulu thanks to its access to Magic Guard. It also provides entry hazard support in Stealth Rock and can weaken Steel-types with Fire-type coverage. Mega Diancie can also reflect block status and is a great wallbreaker that can assist Tapu Bulu; in particular, it can check Poison-types, appreciates Tapu Bulu breaking down Steel-types with Superpower, and benefits from Grassy Terrain giving it recovery and weakening Earthquake. Tapu Koko and Mega Gardevoir can deal with the physical walls that trouble Tapu Bulu. Tapu Koko can also continually pivot into Tapu Bulu with U-turn and Volt Switch, weaken foes for Tapu Bulu to revenge kill, and deal with the Flying-types that resist Tapu Bulu's Wood Hammer, especially Skarmory and Celesteela. Tapu Bulu deals with Ground-types and other Electric-types in return. Azumarill can clean teams with +6 Aqua Jet after Tapu Bulu has weakened opposing Pokemon. Klefki can set up Spikes and dual screens, (comma) and provide further support with Thunder Wave, switch into Poison- and Steel-types attacks aimed at Tapu Bulu thanks to its Steel typing, and act as an emergency check to some sweepers with Foul Play. Klefki heavily appreciates Grassy Terrain support as well, which halves Earthquake damage and gives it passive recovery. Babiri Berry Togekiss and Clefable can check Steel-types and deal sizeable damage to Skarmory, Celesteela, and Mega Scizor, all of which wall Tapu Bulu. Togekiss also checks Mega Venusaur thanks to its Flying typing and Serene Grace Air Slash.

[SET]
name: Choice Band (Fairy)
move 1: Wood Hammer
move 2: Horn Leech
move 3: Superpower
move 4: Stone Edge / Zen Headbutt
item: Choice Band
ability: Grassy Surge
nature: Adamant
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

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

Wood Hammer is Tapu Bulu's strongest STAB attack, (comma) and boosted by both Grassy Terrain and Choice Band, dealing massive damage to Pokemon that doesn't don't resist it at the cost of significant recoil damage. Horn Leech provides Tapu Bulu with a reliable means of recovery while still hitting hard under Grassy Terrain. Superpower hits Steel-types such as Heatran and Ferrothorn, which would otherwise completely wall Tapu Bulu. Stone Edge hits Flying- and Fire-types such as Zapdos and Volcarona, which resist Tapu Bulu's Grass-type attacks. Zen Headbutt can be used instead of Stone Edge to let Tapu Bulu hit Poison-types such as Mega Venusaur.

Set Details
========

Maximum Attack investment with an Adamant nature and Choice Band maximizes Tapu Bulu's damage output, allowing it to bust holes in the opposing team. 252 Speed EVs make Tapu Bulu as fast as possible, outpacing neutral-natured Seismitoad, which would otherwise outspeed it and KO it with Sludge Wave. Grassy Surge summons Grassy Terrain upon switching in, boosting the power of Tapu Bulu's Grass-type moves, decreasing the power of Earthquake, and recovering restoring health each turn.

Usage Tips
========

Tapu Bulu should be brought in early-game to wallbreak as much as possible to weaken foes for its teammates as much as possible. It should use Wood Hammer as often as possible, as Wood Hammer deals the most damage under Grassy Terrain and weakens threats immensely. On the other hand, Horn Leech should be used when Tapu Bulu's HP is low and you want to preserve it, or if Horn Leech would still KO the foe to avoid taking unnecessary recoil damage. Tapu Bulu should attempt to advantage of Wood Hammer and Horn Leech while Grassy Terrain is active. Go for Superpower against Steel-types such as Heatran and Ferrothorn, and go for Stone Edge or Zen Headbutt against Fire- and Flying-types or Poison-types, respectively. Aim to keep Grassy Terrain up as much as possible to provide passive healing for teammates and reduce Earthquake damage, especially against Ground teams. Tapu Bulu's typing also helps it switch into some attacks for its teammates, such as Garchomp's Earthquake, Xurkitree's Thunderbolt, and Azumarill's Aqua Jet. However, be wary about switching it into Tapu Fini, as Grassy Terrain overriding Misty Surge allows Scald to potentially burn Tapu Bulu. Avoid getting Tapu Bulu worn down by entry hazards, since it needs its HP to tank hits before hitting attacking. Similarly, avoid letting Tapu Bulu get burned, since burns halve Tapu Bulu's Attack stat, making it much less threatening. Lastly, Tapu Bulu's subpar Speed makes it vulnerable to a myriad of revenge killers, so it is best to remove faster threats before bringing Tapu Bulu in.

Team Options
========

Almost all Fairy-types appreciate Tapu Bulu's wallbreaking capabilities, ability to take on Ground-type teams, and Grassy Terrain support. Klefki's Steel typing allows it to switch into Poison-type moves for Tapu Bulu, and it can also provide support with dual screens, Thunder Wave, and Spikes, improving Tapu Bulu's longevity, speed control, and ability to KO threats. Klefki also appreciates Grassy Terrain weakening Earthquake from threats like Excadrill and granting it passive recovery. Mega Diancie can also deal with some Poison-types, and Magic Bounce lets it beat down some defensive and support Pokemon. Tapu Koko can gain momentum for Tapu Bulu by letting it come in safely with Volt Switch or U-turn, and it easily checks Celesteela and Skarmory as well as revenge killers such as Landorus. Tapu Fini and Togekiss can provide Defog support for Tapu Bulu, keeping entry hazards off the field. Both of them can also stallbreak effectively with Taunt and Nasty Plot, respectively. The former can also weaken walls with Nature's Madness, whereas the latter can take on Grass-types such as Mega Venusaur. Choice Scarf Togekiss can also revenge kill targets such as Infernape, (comma) that Tapu Bulu would struggle against. Togekiss's Babiri Berry set can also take hits from Mega Scizor and take it out with Fire Blast. Clefable is another Babiri Berry user that can also take out Mega Scizor for Tapu Bulu, and it can even provide Stealth Rock support to pressure opposing teams. Z-Belly Drum Azumarill is able to threaten Fire-types such as Mega Charizard Y and Talonflame and appreciates Tapu Bulu's wallbreaking capabilities early-game so that it can sweep late-game. Lastly, Mega Gardevoir can check select Poison-types like Mega Venusaur thanks to its Psychic typing and is a powerful wallbreaker that can punch holes into opposing teams.

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

Fairy
--------
Swords Dance with Fightinium Z gives Tapu Bulu amazing power and can let it break through some walls, but Choice Scarf's Speed boost and Choice Band's immediate power boost are generally preferred. Substitute + Leech Seed can be used to stall out the opposing threat by slowly depleting its health with Leech Seed while avoiding damage with Substitute. Thanks to Tapu Bulu's average Speed, it can set up another Substitute if attacked and the Substitute is broken; however, this combination can be easily walled, and powerful attackers can pressure Tapu Bulu. A Jolly nature is an option for non-Choice Scarf sets to allow Tapu Bulu to outspeed both Timid Seismitoad and Adamant Diggersby.

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

Fairy
--------
**Skarmory and Celesteela**: Skarmory and Celesteela completely wall Tapu Bulu because of their excellent defensive typing and bulk. The former can stall Tapu Bulu with Roost while KOing Tapu Bulu and KO it with Brave Bird or Iron Head, and the latter KOes it with Heavy Slam or Flamethrower. Choice Scarf Tapu Bulu has it even worse, being unable to do any sorts of meaningful damage to either.

**Mega Venusaur**: Mega Venusaur walls Tapu Bulu's Grass-type attacks, resists Superpower, doesn't take much damage from Stone Edge, and can OHKO Tapu Bulu with Sludge Bomb. Tapu Bulu has to rely on Zen Headbutt to deal reasonable damage to it.

**Poison-types**: Poison-type Pokemon such as Nidoking and Gengar can threaten Tapu Bulu with their STAB attacks; however, they need to be wary of Tapu Bulu's Zen Headbutt, and most Poison-types cannot switch into Wood Hammer.

**Steel-types**: Tapu Bulu has to rely on Superpower to beat most Steel-types such as Heatran, Magnezone, and Ferrothorn. Mega Scizor can tank all of its attacks and use it to set up Swords Dance.

**Fire-types**: Several Fire-types such as Mega Charizard X, Volcarona, and Talonflame resist Tapu Bulu's Grass-type attacks and can threaten it with their STAB moves. However, they should be wary of switching into a Stone Edge.

**Grass-types**: Grass-types wall Tapu Bulu easily, and many of them, such as Serperior, can take advantage of Grassy Terrain.

**Revenge Killers**: Revenge killers, especially Choice Scarf users such as Nihilego and Victini, can easily outspeed and KO Tapu Bulu.

**Status**: Tapu Bulu doesn't appreciate being inflicted with status; burns heavily diminish Tapu Bulu's its wallbreaking capabilities, poison hurts its longevity, and paralysis reduces Tapu Bulu's its already lacking Speed.
 
Last edited:

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[OVERVIEW]

Fairy
=======

Tapu Bulu's excellent Attack stat in conjunction with its Grassy Terrain-boosted STAB attacks makes it a great physical wallbreaker on Fairy teams. It is also able to serve as a revenge killer with Choice Scarf. Its Grass typing allows it to take on Ground, Rock, and Water teams and relieve some of the pressure from on Azumarill and Tapu Koko, and it is able to sweep these teams easily with Choice Scarf. Furthermore, Tapu Bulu's access to decent coverage moves such as Superpower, Stone Edge, and Zen Headbutt allows it to check several types in the metagame. Grassy Surge provides immense support for Fairy teams, giving the team passive recovery and reducing damage dealt by Earthquake. However, it also recovers the health of the opposing team, which can be disadvantageous. Also, Tapu Bulu also still has trouble KOing certain physically defensive Pokemon, such as Skarmory, even with its amazing wallbreaking power, and it is even more easily walled by them when using Choice Scarf. Tapu Bulu's Grassy / Fairy typing also leaves it with a huge weakness to Poison-type attacks, meaning users of such attacks force Tapu Bulu to switch out to Klefki. Finally, Tapu Bulu's subpar Speed stat leaves it outsped by positive-natured base 80 Speed Pokemon and Choice Scarf users, meaning it usually has to take damage before dishing it out, though with a Choice Scarf, it is able to outspeed some of them.

[SET]
name: Choice Scarf (Fairy)
move 1: Wood Hammer
move 2: Horn Leech
move 3: Superpower
move 4: Stone Edge
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Grassy Surge
nature: Jolly
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

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

STAB Wood Hammer deals massive damage when boosted by Grassy Terrain and is the move Tapu Bulu should use most of the time. Horn Leech is a secondary STAB move that Tapu Bulu should use if it wants to preserve its HP and avoid taking recoil damage, especially if Horn Leech can KO the opposing Pokemon. Superpower is good coverage for taking on Steel-types like Heatran and Magnezone. Stone Edge nails Flying- and Fire-types like Charizard looking to switch into Wood Hammer or Horn Leech.

Set Details
========

252 Attack EVs maximize Tapu Bulu's power. Maximum Speed EVs, a Jolly nature, and a Choice Scarf allow Tapu Bulu to outspeed most unboosted Pokemon in the metagame and fulfill the role of a revenge killer; notable Pokemon it can outspeed are Greninja and Tapu Koko. Grassy Surge is an invaluable ability that boosts the power of Tapu Bulu's STAB attacks, gives its team passive recovery, and weakens Earthquake.

Usage Tips
========

Choice Scarf Tapu Bulu should be mostly used as a revenge killer, coming in after a teammate has been KOed to land a hard-hitting Wood Hammer on the opposing team. It is best to revenge kill fast, frail Pokemon like Greninja. Wood Hammer is also a very spammable attack in general and should be used to wallbreak as much as possible. On the other hand, use Horn Leech when Tapu Bulu is low on HP; you should also use Horn Leech when it is sufficient to KO the foe to avoid taking unnecessary recoil. It is helpful to use VoltTurn users to pivot out into Tapu Bulu to attack so it doesn't take unnecessary damage. Tapu Bulu can also be used as an emergency check to some setup sweepers given that it outspeeds them, such as +1 Gyarados and Dragonite. You should aim to keep Grassy Terrain active as often as possible to weaken Earthquake and heal teammates. Choice Scarf Tapu Bulu also has an easy time sweeping Water, Rock, and Ground teams with Horn Leech or Wood Hammer, since it is able to outspeed almost everything and its Grassy Terrain-boosted attacks hit very hard. Against Ground teams specifically, be wary of using Wood Hammer if there are no entry hazards on the opposing side, as Focus Sash Dugtrio can sometimes trap and remove Tapu Bulu, and Garchomp is able to survive Wood Hammer without hazard damage and chip away at Tapu Bulu with Rough Skin. However, against other teams, Tapu Bulu has a hard time breaking through physical walls like Porygon2 and Zapdos, so they should be removed before Tapu Bulu starts spamming Wood Hammer to avoid taking unnecessary recoil damage and giving those Pokemon free opportunities to switch in. Use the appropriate coverage move when predicting certain threats to switch into Tapu Bulu, such as Stone Edge when predicting a Flying-type to switch in. Most status hinders Tapu Bulu heavily; Avoid getting Tapu Bulu inflicted with status; burns diminish its power, paralysis ruins its Speed, and poison wears it down so that it is more easily revenge killed. Thus, avoid getting Tapu Bulu inflicted with status.

Team Options
========

Clefable can absorb troublesome status ailments for Tapu Bulu thanks to its access to Magic Guard. It also provides entry hazard support in Stealth Rock and can weaken Steel-types with Fire-type coverage. Mega Diancie can also reflect block status and is a great wallbreaker that can assist Tapu Bulu; in particular, it can check Poison-types, appreciates Tapu Bulu breaking down Steel-types with Superpower, and benefits from Grassy Terrain giving it recovery and weakening Earthquake. Tapu Koko and Mega Gardevoir can deal with the physical walls that trouble Tapu Bulu. Tapu Koko can also continually pivot into Tapu Bulu with U-turn and Volt Switch, weaken foes for Tapu Bulu to revenge kill, and deal with the Flying-types that resist Tapu Bulu's Wood Hammer, especially Skarmory and Celesteela. Tapu Bulu deals with Ground-types and other Electric-types in return. Azumarill can clean teams with +6 Aqua Jet after Tapu Bulu has weakened opposing Pokemon. Klefki can set up Spikes and dual screens, (comma) and provide further support with Thunder Wave, switch into Poison- and Steel-types attacks aimed at Tapu Bulu thanks to its Steel typing, and act as an emergency check to some sweepers with Foul Play. Klefki heavily appreciates Grassy Terrain support as well, which halves Earthquake damage and gives it passive recovery. Babiri Berry Togekiss and Clefable can check Steel-types and deal sizeable damage to Skarmory, Celesteela, and Mega Scizor, all of which wall Tapu Bulu. Togekiss also checks Mega Venusaur thanks to its Flying typing and Serene Grace Air Slash.

[SET]
name: Choice Band (Fairy)
move 1: Wood Hammer
move 2: Horn Leech
move 3: Superpower
move 4: Stone Edge / Zen Headbutt
item: Choice Band
ability: Grassy Surge
nature: Adamant
evs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spe

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

Wood Hammer is Tapu Bulu's strongest STAB attack, (comma) and boosted by both Grassy Terrain and Choice Band, dealing massive damage to Pokemon that doesn't don't resist it at the cost of significant recoil damage. Horn Leech provides Tapu Bulu with a reliable means of recovery while still hitting hard under Grassy Terrain. Superpower hits Steel-types such as Heatran and Ferrothorn, which would otherwise completely wall Tapu Bulu. Stone Edge hits Flying- and Fire-types such as Zapdos and Volcarona, which resist Tapu Bulu's Grass-type attacks. Zen Headbutt can be used instead of Stone Edge to let Tapu Bulu hit Poison-types such as Mega Venusaur.

Set Details
========

Maximum Attack investment with an Adamant nature and Choice Band maximizes Tapu Bulu's damage output, allowing it to bust holes in the opposing team. 252 Speed EVs make Tapu Bulu as fast as possible, outpacing neutral-natured Seismitoad, which would otherwise outspeed it and KO it with Sludge Wave. Grassy Surge summons Grassy Terrain upon switching in, boosting the power of Tapu Bulu's Grass-type moves, decreasing the power of Earthquake, and recovering restoring health each turn.

Usage Tips
========

Tapu Bulu should be brought in early-game to wallbreak as much as possible to weaken foes for its teammates as much as possible. It should use Wood Hammer as often as possible, as Wood Hammer deals the most damage under Grassy Terrain and weakens threats immensely. On the other hand, Horn Leech should be used when Tapu Bulu's HP is low and you want to preserve it, or if Horn Leech would still KO the foe to avoid taking unnecessary recoil damage. Tapu Bulu should attempt to advantage of Wood Hammer and Horn Leech while Grassy Terrain is active. Go for Superpower against Steel-types such as Heatran and Ferrothorn, and go for Stone Edge or Zen Headbutt against Fire- and Flying-types or Poison-types, respectively. Aim to keep Grassy Terrain up as much as possible to provide passive healing for teammates and reduce Earthquake damage, especially against Ground teams. Tapu Bulu's typing also helps it switch into some attacks for its teammates, such as Garchomp's Earthquake, Xurkitree's Thunderbolt, and Azumarill's Aqua Jet. However, be wary about switching it into Tapu Fini, as Grassy Terrain overriding Misty Surge allows Scald to potentially burn Tapu Bulu. Avoid getting Tapu Bulu worn down by entry hazards, since it needs its HP to tank hits before hitting attacking. Similarly, avoid letting Tapu Bulu get burned, since burns halve Tapu Bulu's Attack stat, making it much less threatening. Lastly, Tapu Bulu's subpar Speed makes it vulnerable to a myriad of revenge killers, so it is best to remove faster threats before bringing Tapu Bulu in.

Team Options
========

Almost all Fairy-types appreciate Tapu Bulu's wallbreaking capabilities, ability to take on Ground-type teams, and Grassy Terrain support. Klefki's Steel typing allows it to switch into Poison-type moves for Tapu Bulu, and it can also provide support with dual screens, Thunder Wave, and Spikes, improving Tapu Bulu's longevity, speed control, and ability to KO threats. Klefki also appreciates Grassy Terrain weakening Earthquake from threats like Excadrill and granting it passive recovery. Mega Diancie can also deal with some Poison-types, and Magic Bounce lets it beat down some defensive and support Pokemon. Tapu Koko can gain momentum for Tapu Bulu by letting it come in safely with Volt Switch or U-turn, and it easily checks Celesteela and Skarmory as well as revenge killers such as Landorus. Tapu Fini and Togekiss can provide Defog support for Tapu Bulu, keeping entry hazards off the field. Both of them can also stallbreak effectively with Taunt and Nasty Plot, respectively. The former can also weaken walls with Nature's Madness, whereas the latter can take on Grass-types such as Mega Venusaur. Choice Scarf Togekiss can also revenge kill targets such as Infernape, (comma) that Tapu Bulu would struggle against. Togekiss's Babiri Berry set can also take hits from Mega Scizor and take it out with Fire Blast. Clefable is another Babiri Berry user that can also take out Mega Scizor for Tapu Bulu, and it can even provide Stealth Rock support to pressure opposing teams. Z-Belly Drum Azumarill is able to threaten Fire-types such as Mega Charizard Y and Talonflame and appreciates Tapu Bulu's wallbreaking capabilities early-game so that it can sweep late-game. Lastly, Mega Gardevoir can check select Poison-types like Mega Venusaur thanks to its Psychic typing and is a powerful wallbreaker that can punch holes into opposing teams.

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

Fairy
--------
Swords Dance with Fightinium Z gives Tapu Bulu amazing power and can let it break through some walls, but Choice Scarf's Speed boost and Choice Band's immediate power boost are generally preferred. Substitute + Leech Seed can be used to stall out the opposing threat by slowly depleting its health with Leech Seed while avoiding damage with Substitute. Thanks to Tapu Bulu's average Speed, it can set up another Substitute if attacked and the Substitute is broken; however, this combination can be easily walled, and powerful attackers can pressure Tapu Bulu. A Jolly nature is an option for non-Choice Scarf sets to allow Tapu Bulu to outspeed both Timid Seismitoad and Adamant Diggersby.

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

Fairy
--------
**Skarmory and Celesteela**: Skarmory and Celesteela completely wall Tapu Bulu because of their excellent defensive typing and bulk. The former can stall Tapu Bulu with Roost while KOing Tapu Bulu and KO it with Brave Bird or Iron Head, and the latter KOes it with Heavy Slam or Flamethrower. Choice Scarf Tapu Bulu has it even worse, being unable to do any sorts of meaningful damage to either.

**Mega Venusaur**: Mega Venusaur walls Tapu Bulu's Grass-type attacks, resists Superpower, doesn't take much damage from Stone Edge, and can OHKO Tapu Bulu with Sludge Bomb. Tapu Bulu has to rely on Zen Headbutt to deal reasonable damage to it.

**Poison-types**: Poison-type Pokemon such as Nidoking and Gengar can threaten Tapu Bulu with their STAB attacks; however, they need to be wary of Tapu Bulu's Zen Headbutt, and most Poison-types cannot switch into Wood Hammer.

**Steel-types**: Tapu Bulu has to rely on Superpower to beat most Steel-types such as Heatran, Magnezone, and Ferrothorn. Mega Scizor can tank all of its attacks and use it to set up Swords Dance.

**Fire-types**: Several Fire-types such as Mega Charizard X, Volcarona, and Talonflame resist Tapu Bulu's Grass-type attacks and can threaten it with their STAB moves. However, they should be wary of switching into a Stone Edge.

**Grass-types**: Grass-types wall Tapu Bulu easily, and many of them, such as Serperior, can take advantage of Grassy Terrain.

**Revenge Killers**: Revenge killers, especially Choice Scarf users such as Nihilego and Victini, can easily outspeed and KO Tapu Bulu.

**Status**: Tapu Bulu doesn't appreciate being inflicted with status; burns heavily diminish Tapu Bulu's its wallbreaking capabilities, poison hurts its longevity, and paralysis reduces Tapu Bulu's its already lacking Speed.
Implemented all except for the that -> comma change in the line about scarf toge vs Infernape cause that didn't make any sense. Don't 100% agree with reflect -> block but changed it anyway. Ready for upload
 

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