Haxorus Smogon: The 10,000-Letter Guide to the Dragon of Battle

Introduction

Haxorus, the Dragon of Battle, has long been a formidable force in the competitive Pokémon scene. With its impressive stats, powerful moveset, and unique ability, it has carved a niche for itself as one of the most versatile and effective Pokémon in the Smogon metagame. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of using Haxorus in battle, providing detailed insights into its strengths, weaknesses, and optimal strategies.

Stats and Abilities

Haxorus boasts impressive base stats, with a particularly high Attack stat of 147. Its Defense and Special Defense are also respectable at 90 and 70, respectively, making it a durable Pokémon that can withstand a significant amount of punishment.

Haxorus's primary ability, Mold Breaker, is a game-changer. It allows Haxorus to bypass the effects of abilities that alter the effectiveness of its moves. This ability is particularly effective against Pokémon with abilities like Levitate, which makes them immune to Ground-type moves. Haxorus can also utilize the ability Rivalry to increase its Attack stat when facing opponents of the same gender.

Moveset and Coverage

Haxorus's moveset offers a diverse range of options, allowing it to adapt to various situations. Its signature move, Outrage, is a powerful Dragon-type move with a chance to raise Haxorus's Attack stat. Dragon Claw is another potent Dragon-type move that deals significant damage.

Haxorus can also learn a variety of coverage moves to hit a wide range of opponents. Earthquake is a Ground-type move that deals massive damage to Electric-type and Rock-type Pokémon, while Aerial Ace is a Flying-type move that can be used to counter Grass-type and Fighting-type Pokémon. Haxorus can also learn X-Scissor, a Bug-type move that is effective against Psychic-type and Dark-type Pokémon.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While Haxorus is a formidable Pokémon, there are certain mistakes that players should avoid when using it in battle.

1. Overreliance on Outrage: Outrage is a powerful move, but it locks Haxorus into using it for multiple turns. This can make Haxorus vulnerable to being switched out or statused while it is using Outrage.
2. Neglecting Coverage Moves: Haxorus's diverse moveset is one of its strengths. Failing to utilize coverage moves can limit Haxorus's effectiveness against certain types of Pokémon.
3. Poor Teambuilding: Haxorus is a powerful Pokémon, but it cannot carry a team on its own. It is important to build a team that complements Haxorus's strengths and weaknesses.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High Attack stat
• Respectable Defense and Special Defense stats
• Mold Breaker ability allows it to bypass the effects of abilities that alter the effectiveness of its moves
• Versatile moveset with a wide range of coverage options

Cons:

• Outrage locks Haxorus into using it for multiple turns
• Weak to Ice-type and Fairy-type moves
• Can be difficult to switch into battle due to its lack of Speed

Conclusion

Haxorus is a formidable Pokémon that can be a valuable asset to any Smogon team. With its impressive stats, powerful moveset, and unique ability, Haxorus can adapt to various situations and take down a wide range of opponents. By understanding its strengths, weaknesses, and optimal strategies, players can maximize Haxorus's potential and climb the ranks in competitive Pokémon.

Additional Tips

In addition to the information provided in this guide, here are some additional tips for using Haxorus effectively:

• Use Haxorus as a late-game sweeper. Haxorus's high Attack stat and powerful moveset make it a great choice for finishing off weakened opponents.
• Protect Haxorus from status effects. Status effects can significantly hinder Haxorus's performance. Consider using Pokémon with the ability Aromatherapy or Haze to remove status effects from Haxorus.
• Be aware of Haxorus's weaknesses. Haxorus is weak to Ice-type and Fairy-type moves. Keep an eye out for these types of attacks and switch out Haxorus accordingly.