Strategy and Guide for Shiftry [Pokémon Sun and Moon]

Today we will be discussing the Wicked Pokémon Shiftry for the Pokémon Sun and Moon Versions!

Basic Information for Shiftry

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Using Shiftry

Judging from the base stat distribution, Shiftry has a higher base Attack stat but this doesn’t necessarily mean that a specially based Shiftry isn’t viable. On the physical side, it has access to useful STAB moves such as Leaf Blade and Knock Off. On the other hand, the lower base special attack stat is still an option because of its access to other moves such as Hurricane, that in spite of its shaky accuracy, makes up for it through high base power. This move provides type coverage against grass and bug types that usually wall Shiftry’s STAB moves.

Its problematic base 80 Speed stat can be remedied by running Chlorophyll while the Sun is out, enabling it to double its speed and put some offensive pressure against unprepared opponents.

A breakdown of the suggested moves for Shiftry

Fitting Shiftry on your team

■Special Type

· Unlike its Physical counterpart, a Special-based Shiftry has a plethora of Grass type STAB moves to choose from.

· In addition, access to Hurricane allows it to counter more types of opponents that it wouldn’t normally be able to counter given its typing.

· Apart from the grass type moves, Shiftry can also use dark type moves well thanks to its typing. This makes Choice Scarf another suggested option to outspeed popular ghost types like Mega Gengar.

■Physical Type

· The Physically-oriented Shiftry has tools such as Leaf Blade and Knock Off which offer good STAB damage.

· What sets this set apart from the Special-based Shiftry is its access to stat modifying moves such as Swords Dance and Tailwind, which allows it to boost its already high base attack stat, and in addition make Pickpocket a decent option since it won’t be fully relying on Sunny Day alone to outrun opponents.

Countering Shiftry

When faced with a bad type matchup, it is difficult to deal with the opponent’s Shiftry unless a move is revealed since it is hard to tell whether it is running Physical or Special moves.

Since it carries boosting moves such as Swords Dance or Tailwind, threatening it with a high base Speed Pokémon before it is able to set-up is suggested.

However, in spite of its high offensive presence, its defenses are lacking, and with multiple weaknesses as a dual-type it doesn’t survive much from super effective moves. Bug type STAB moves are highly recommended as these deal the highest amount of damage against Shiftry.

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