Zeraora Movesets & Competitive Sets

Set Description Close Combat is for various Fighting-weak Pokemon, such as Choice Band Galarian Darmanitan and non-Chople Berry Tyranitar. Taunt + Bulk Up allows Zeraora to break through walls like Chansey, Registeel, and Galarian Corsola. EVs The EV spread allows Zeraora to survive Choice Specs Regieleki's Hyper Beam and non-Life Orb or Choice Band Urshifu-R's Surging Strikes into Aqua Jet. Usage Tips Life Orb Zeraora aims to deal as much damage as possible while occasionally removing opposing counterplay with Taunt and Bulk Up. Against passive Pokemon such as Chansey, Registeel, and Galarian Corsola, Zeraora should use Taunt turn 1 for the best chance to win. Zeraora wins against Chansey with the following sequence: Taunt to block Charm or Toxic, then two Bulk Ups, and then Close Combat. To shut down stall Registeel, use Taunt, and then use Bulk Up three times to OHKO it with Close Combat. If Registeel reveals Earthquake, it is Assault Vest Registeel, so a +2 Close Combat will OHKO if Zeraora survives long enough.. Versus Regieleki, use Bulk Up and then Close Combat so that Choice Specs-boosted Hyper Beam doesn't KO Zeraora after Life Orb recoil. Other Options Weakness Policy Zeraora is a somewhat common Metagross lure, since all other sets are quite unreliable against it. With an EV spread of 8 HP / 176 Atk / 176 Def / 148 Spe, an Adamant nature, and Bulk Up + Knock Off, it defeats all Metagross variants bar Jolly Choice Scarf. Air Balloon Zeraora with Fake Out and Outrage defeats some Ground-types and some strong Pokemon with Ground-type coverage, such as Landorus, Nidoking, Galarian Darmanitan, and Haxorus. Quick Attack or Protect on Life Orb Zeraora allows it to check Custap Berry users like Primarina better. A special Zeraora set can lure in a few answers to Zeraora, but it is usually not advisable. If a team requires it, use Fake Out + Thunderbolt for Avalugg, Grass Knot for Swampert and Rhyperior, and Thunder for Crustle.

Set Description Plasma Fists OHKOes most Urshifu-R, Celesteela, Tapu Fini, and non-Custap Berry Primarina, and as an added bonus it makes Normal-type moves Electric-type, which lets Zeraora absorb them with Volt Absorb. This is useful versus non-Choice Scarf Porygon-Z. Knock Off defeats Dragapult and Spectrier and has good odds to win against Naganadel. Play Rough OHKOes Urshifu-S and non-Choice Scarf Haxorus. Close Combat OHKOes Galarian Darmanitan, non-Chople Berry Tyranitar, and some Heatran. Outrage beats many Dragon-types, such as Dracovish, Dracozolt, and occasionally Goodra. It also guarantees beating Naganadel, but Knock Off is usually adequate there, as Modest Naganadel's Draco Meteor only occasionally OHKOes Zeraora. Blaze Kick OHKOes Ferrothorn and Kartana. EVs The Speed investment and the Jolly nature are for opposing Zeraora and Dragapult; the Special Defense is for surviving Choice Specs-boosted Hyper Beam from Regieleki. Usage Tips Choice Band Zeraora is quite straightforward; use the move that does the most damage.

Set Description Zeraora can hold an Assault Vest to take on various special attackers, such as Sylveon and Porygon-Z, which other sets typically struggle with. Knock Off allows Zeraora to defeat all Haxorus with Outrage and Heatran with Close Combat. Iron Tail helps out versus Sylveon and Aromatisse; it 2HKOes bulky Sylveon, and Iron Tail + Plasma Fists 2HKOes Aromatisse. Fire Punch OHKOes Kartana and 2HKOes Ferrothorn. EVs The HP investment allows Zeraora to survive Porygon-Z's Hyper Beam; the Defense investment is for Choice Scarf Haxorus's Earthquake. The Speed is for outspeeding base 110 Speed Pokemon, such as Archeops and Latios. Usage Tips In most matchups, use the move that does the most damage. Against Haxorus and Heatran, use Knock Off and then a super effective move. This removes any counterplay option they may have, including a Choice Scarf or a Custap Berry.

Set Details Bulk Up turns Zeraora into a dangerous wincon given its Speed tier and coverage. Furthermore, Bulk Up allows it to tank priority moves from common revenge killers, notably avoiding an OHKO from Rillaboom's Grassy Glide. Zeraora gets ample setup chances, forcing out common defensive Pokemon such as Tomohawk, Slowking, and Corviknight. Close Combat hits Heatran, Kyurem, and Equilibra super effectively, while Knock Off mainly hits Dragapult and Galarian Slowking. Blaze Kick is excellent as coverage for Jumbao but does not hit anything else meaningfully. Longevity from Leftovers allows Zeraora to sweep more easily. Heavy-Duty Boots is an option on more offensive teams, as negating entry hazard chip damage ensures one bulk up puts Zeraora out of range of Rillaboom's Grassy Glide. Bulk Up Zeraora fits best on hyper offense teams. Dual screens support from Tapu Koko and Regieleki lets Zeraora set up more easily and be much harder to revenge kill. Tapu Koko comes with the added benefit of powering up Plasma Fists with Electric Terrain. Rillaboom is an excellent teammate, as Zeraora appreciates Rillaboom countering Ground-types, while Rillaboom values Zeraora's ability to pressure Corviknight and Tornadus-T. Cawmodore is an excellent pairing with Bulk Up Zeraora on hyper offense teams, as it appreciates Zeraora hitting Dragapult and Tornadus-T super effectively. Bulk Up Zeraora can also operate as a wincon on more balanced offensive teams, where it appreciates teammates like Garchomp and Clefable, which excel at chipping foes into range of a Zeraora sweep. Checks and Counters Ground-types: Ground-type Pokemon such as Landorus-T, Garchomp, and Hippowdon all wall Zeraora, block its Volt Switch, and force it out. These Pokemon also commonly run items such as Rocky Helmet, which forces chip damage on Zeraora, leaving it more vulnerable to being revenge killed. All of these Pokemon loathe getting hit with Toxic, however. Contact Effects: Chip damage from Rocky Helmet users such as defensive Clefable or Iron Barbs from Ferrothorn can put Zeraora in range of being revenge killed and overall decrease its ability to pivot. Revenge Killers: Pokemon with strong priority such as Rillaboom, Miasmaw, Weavile, and Urshifu-R all can force out Zeraora, not allowing it to pivot. Rillaboom and Miasmaw in particular are notable, as they have a chance to OHKO it, while Weavile and Urshifu-R require prior chip damage to properly pressure Zeraora. Choice Scarf users such as Landorus-T, Kartana, and Victini fulfill a similar role. Bulky Grass-types: Bulky Grass-types such as Jumbao, Tapu Bulu, and Amoonguss resist Zeraora's Plasma Fists and Volt Switch, and they are hard for it to wear down thanks to consistent recovery. Because of Jumbao's Trace and Fairy typing, it either resists or is immune to all of Zeraora's attacking options bar Blaze Kick, including a very useful Volt Switch immunity, making it a particularly excellent check.

Set Details Zeraora brings many unique qualities to the table as a pivot: an uncontested Speed tier, a rare strong physical Electric-type STAB move, and outstanding coverage in Knock Off and Close Combat, allowing it to force progress on the enemy team. Knock Off punishes common Ground-type switch-ins to Zeraora, such as Landorus-T, Garchomp, and Hippowdon. Removing Leftovers from these Ground-types makes them much easier to wear down over the course of a game, allowing Zeraora more opportunities to pivot. Additionally, Knock Off notably hits Dragapult super effectively. Close Combat is the preferred option for the final moveslot, as it hits Pokemon such as Equilibra and Hydreigon super effectively, reaching a 2HKO on both. Toxic is another option that further punishes Landorus-T, Garchomp, and Jumbao for switching in on Zeraora. Due to Zeraora's frailty, it can find difficulty switching in. This makes it an excellent choice to add to any VoltTurn core with Pokemon like Kerfluffle, Dragapult, and Rillaboom. Rillaboom in particular helps Zeraora deal with the Ground-types that counter it, while Zeraora pressures Flying-types such as Tornadus-T and Corviknight. Zeraora also appreciates the passive recovery from Rillaboom's Grassy Terrain. Scizor and Tornadus-T form a pivot core with Zeraora while also checking opposing Rillaboom. Defensive pivots such as Corviknight and Slowking help immensely in getting Zeraora in on stronger, frailer targets such as Weavile and Blacephalon. Slowking has the added benefit of Future Sight support, allowing Zeraora to pressure Pokemon immune to Volt Switch. Kyurem is another great choice, greatly threatening the Ground- and Grass-types that like to come in on Zeraora with STAB Ice-type moves. In return, Zeraora can revenge kill Dragapult, Kerfluffle, and Urshifu-R.

Plasma Fists is Zeraora's most powerful move, targets Water- and Flying-types like Slowking, Mantine, and Corviknight, and hits especially hard after a Bulk Up boost. Close Combat beats Dark-, Normal-, and Steel-types such as Hydreigon, Diggersby, Ferrothorn, and Heatran. Knock Off removes items like Eviolite from threats like Galarian Corsola and Porygon2 and provides useful coverage against other Ghost- and Psychic-type foes like Dragapult, Aegislash, and Jirachi. Due to Zeraora's low physical bulk, it should get opportunities to set up on walls that it forces out like Ferrothorn, Blissey, and Celesteela. Wallbreakers such as Tapu Koko, Choice Specs Zapdos, and Alolan Raichu appreciate Zeraora taking on troublesome specially defensive walls like Blissey and Galarian Slowking while being a good setup sweeper against Dark, Steel, and Normal. Tapu Koko is a good teammate, as it deals with Dragon-types that Zeraora heavily struggles with like Garchomp and Choice Scarf Latias thanks to Dazzling Gleam. Additionally, it beats Ground-types like Hippowdon, Swampert, and Gastrodon with Grass Knot and sets Electric Terrain. Choice Specs Zapdos defeats Grass-, Dragon-, and Ground-types that Zeraora fails to take on such as Rillaboom, Garchomp, Hippowdon, and Gastrodon thanks to its powerful Hurricane, making it an excellent wallbreaker. Alolan Raichu can outspeed and revenge kill dangerous foes to Zeraora such as Choice Scarf Nihilego, Choice Scarf Excadrill, and Choice Scarf Hydreigon. Additionally, it is also able to beat Ground-types like Swampert and Gastrodon thanks to its access to Grass Knot as well as troublesome Poison-types for Zeraora such as Amoonguss, Dragalge, Nidoking, and Galarian Weezing. Rotom-W provides Defog support and checks Water- and Fire-types like Kingdra, Barraskewda, and Cinderace. Lastly, Magnezone is a useful teammate to deal with Steel-types that Bulk Up Zeraora has trouble breaking through like Excadrill, Ground-types like Mamoswine and Seismitoad with Air Balloon, and Fairy-types like Tapu Bulu and Galarian Weezing.

Plasma Fists deals serious damage to foes like Skarmory, Celesteela, and Toxapex, especially with Choice Band. Close Combat breaks through troublesome Dark-, Steel-, and Normal-types such as Zarude, Heatran, Ferrothorn, and Porygon2. Outrage is helpful for the Dragon matchup, hitting threatening foes such as Garchomp and Dragalge super effectively. Knock Off provides useful coverage against Psychic- and Ghost-types like Jirachi, Galarian Corsola, and Dragapult. Additionally, it removes items such as Choice Scarf and Leftovers from threats like Landorus-T and Seismitoad, respectively. Because of Zeraora's generally poor bulk, it should usually come in through predicted switches or from pivoting teammates like Tapu Koko, Rotom-W, and Zapdos. All Electric teams appreciate Zeraora dealing with troublesome specially defensive walls like Blissey and Galarian Slowking. Because of Zeraora's poor bulk, it appreciates pivoting support from teammates like Tapu Koko, Zapdos, and Rotom-W to bring it in safely. Tapu Koko can set up Electric Terrain to make Zeraora's Plasma Fists stronger, deal with Ground-types like Swampert and Hippowdon thanks to Grass Knot, and pressure threatening Dragon-types like Latias and Choice Scarf Hydreigon with Dazzling Gleam. Choice Specs Zapdos is a great wallbreaker, as it deals with Grass- and Ground-types that Zeraora fails to take on like Amoonguss, Rillaboom, Celebi, and Gastrodon thanks to its powerful Hurricane. Alolan Raichu can outspeed almost the entire metagame in Tapu Koko's Electric Terrain, revenge killing threats to Zeraora such as Choice Scarf Galarian Darmanitan, Excadrill in sand, and Kingdra in rain. Additionally, it is able to take on Poison-types such as Amoonguss and Choice Scarf Nihilego thanks to its Psychic typing. Rotom-W can remove entry hazards for Zeraora with Defog while dealing with Water- and Fire-types like Barraskewda, Urshifu-R, and Blacephalon that may break through Zeraora and the rest of Electric teams. Magnezone can specifically trap and deal with Excadrill thanks to Magnet Pull, which is otherwise a huge threat to Zeraora. Additionally, it can take on other Ground-types like Mamoswine and Seismitoad with Air Balloon.

With a blisteringly fast Speed tier and strong Electric typing, Zeraora reliably pressures many offensive and defensive threats alike, generating Bulk Up opportunities on Pokemon such as Urshifu-R, Tornadus-T, Slowbro, and Corviknight. Close Combat is Zeraora's primary coverage move and strongest option for hitting Electric-resistant Pokemon, notably hitting Ferrothorn and Excadrill for super effective damage. Knock Off removes Heavy-Duty Boots from offensive Thundurus-T and physically defensive walls like Seismitoad and Buzzwole, giving Zeraora a better chance of breaking through them. Leftovers is a viable option over Heavy-Duty Boots, allowing Zeraora to gain passive recovery while setting up, but Heavy-Duty Boots is typically preferred, as Zeraora is often forced into a hit-and-run role until the opposing team is sufficiently weakened. Zeraora is best paired with Spikes support, with Skarmory in particular walling Grass- and Ground-types like Tangrowth and Mudsdale that give it trouble. Seismitoad is also excellent for this role, forming a VoltTurn core with Zeraora and benefiting from its ability to pressure Defog users like Corviknight and Tornadus-T. Rillaboom and Buzzwole are also very strong pivots that pair well with Zeraora, pressuring Ground-types like Gastrodon and Seismitoad while luring in Flying-types that Zeraora can accumulate boosts against. Lastly, Victini can be a great partner, with dual screens giving Zeraora an easier time using Bulk Up while Zeraora offers a safety net against fast breakers like Aerodactyl.

Zeraora uses its mixed offenses and uncontested Speed tier to pose as a threatening offensive pivot, forcing out other fast threats like Aerodactyl and Terrakion with its strong physical coverage and utilizing Volt Switch to gain momentum on switch-ins like Rotom-H and Buzzwole. Close Combat and Grass Knot are Zeraora's most reliable coverage moves, doing significant damage to many of the tier's Electric-resistant Pokemon, particularly Ground-types like Excadrill, Seismitoad, and Mudsdale. Its ability to force these opponents out allows Zeraora to use Volt Switch with much more ease. Alternatively, Knock Off can be used to remove longevity increasing items like Heavy-Duty Boots and Leftovers from Pokemon like Thundurus-T and Nidoqueen, respectively, as well as minimizing the residual damage taken from Rocky Helmet users such as Buzzwole and Ferrothorn. Knock Off also synergizes well with Volt Switch, with the moves working in tandem to quickly put foes in range of Zeraora's stronger attacks. Toxic is an alternative option that can hit all of the above targets bar Nidoqueen, but the prevalence of Shore Up among Zeraora's switch-ins makes it difficult to maintain chip damage, resulting in Zeraora being much more reliant on its teammates to make progress. Grass Knot still fails to significantly damage Gastrodon in addition to aforementioned Electric-resistant Pokemon like Rotom-H and Thundurus-T, so wallbreakers like Tyranitar, Kyurem, and Latios are fantastic teammates, with Tyranitar in particular greatly appreciating Zeraora's ability to lure and remove physically defensive Ground-types. Keldeo is another strong example, pressuring the above Pokemon and forming a VoltTurn core with Flip Turn and greatly appreciating Zeraora's ability to pressure Water-types like Slowking and Seismitoad. If using Knock Off, reliable entry hazard setters are vital for weakening switch-ins; Skarmory and Ferrothorn fill this role well and provide an answer to Sand Rush Excadrill, one of the few Pokemon in the tier that can reliably outpace Zeraora, while also switching into Ground-types like the aforementioned Seismitoad. Similarly, Tornadus-T can form an excellent VoltTurn core with Zeraora, weakening shared answers like Rotom-H and maintaining damage on physically defensive walls like Clefable and Seismitoad with Taunt.

The fastest Fake Out in the tier is very important to Zeraora's role, providing its teammates free turns and some time to improve field positioning. Plasma Fists is a reliable STAB move, hitting threats that Zeraora is meant to check like Tapu Fini and Urshifu-R. Knock Off provides coverage to hit Ghost-types, which is notable, as Dragapult outspeeds every other unboosted presence in the metagame. It also removes key items like Kyurem-B's Assault Vest and Porygon2's Eviolite. A fast Taunt most notably prevents foes like Mew and Naganadel from setting Tailwind, though it also has utility in shutting down redirectors like Amoonguss and Trick Room setters like Diancie and Porygon2. With a Sitrus Berry equipped, Zeraora is able to fulfill its role for a bit longer in the game, and the boost in recovery is also beneficial for taking a multi-hit attack like Surging Strikes. Zeraora's Speed is maximized to outrun Dragapult and tie with opposing Zeraora and its Fake Out. 252 Attack EVs give it the greatest chance to OHKO Urshifu-R and generally pick off the foes it can outspeed.

With one of the highest Speed stats in the game, Zeraora is both an excellent fast revenge killer and, with an Attack donation, a powerful wallbreaker. Plasma Fists allows Zeraora to threaten the prominent defensive Flying- and Water-types in the tier like Corviknight, Skarmory, Ho-Oh, Tapu Fini, and Slowking. It also hits most of the other common walls hard, breaking through Pokemon like Clefable and Heatran, as well as threatening to OHKO slower offensive Pokemon like Tapu Lele. Close Combat provides coverage for Pokemon that resist Plasma Fists like Ferrothorn and Excadrill, preventing them from switching in safely. Knock Off is an overall safe move that removes items from Zeraora’s switch-ins to limit their longevity, most notably Landorus-T and Rotom-H, who rely heavily on their items to consistently check it. Volt Switch creates momentum for the team and brings in a threat to Zeraora’s switch-ins. Zeraora fits best on fast-paced offensive teams with setup sweepers to take advantage of weakened defensive cores Zeraora creates. Most gods with high Attack like Rayquaza, Necrozma-DM, and Kyurem-B are great partners to donate Attack to Zeraora, allowing it to provide immediate wallbreaking power and setup opportunities for the gods. Other setup Pokemon like Garchomp and Weavile also appreciate the pressure Zeraora puts on bulky Water-types. Ground-types like Hippowdon, Gastrodon, and Landorus-T give Zeraora a hard time creating momentum with Volt Switch and can easily take its coverage moves, so Water-types like Rotom-W and Tapu Fini pair well. Dragon-types like Dialga, Zekrom, and Dracozolt prevent Zeraora from constantly using Plasma Fists, so Pokemon like Tapu Lele and Landorus-T support it well. Zeraora gets easily chipped down by entry hazards due to frequent pivoting, so hazard removers like Corviknight, Tapu Fini, and Excadrill are good partners. Entry hazard setters like Skarmory, Mew, and Ferrothorn help Zeraora wear down its checks and allow it to break more easily.

With its high Speed and threatening Electric moves, Zeraora pressures common Defoggers and generates momentum for the team. Taunt shuts down common Defoggers like Corviknight and Tapu Fini and prevents Pokemon like Clefable and Ferrothorn from setting entry hazards and healing. Volt Switch lets it keep up the pressure bringing in teammates consistently and has extra longevity due to Heavy-Duty Boots. Plasma Fists keeps Zeraora’s offensive presence and threatens prominent Water-type Pokemon like Tapu Fini and Slowking. Knock Off is useful for taking away Leftovers from its checks like Landorus-T, Gastrodon, and Ferrothorn, and improving the effectiveness of entry hazards by removing Heavy-Duty Boots off of Pokemon like Rotom-Heat, Slowbro, and Ho-Oh. Toxic gives Zeraora a way to punish its consistent checks like Landorus-T and Hippowdon. With immense pressure on Flying-types and Defoggers, Zeraora provides excellent support for entry hazard-stacking teams. Gods with high Attack like Rayquaza, Necrozma-DM, and Kyurem-B allow Zeraora to extert offensive pressure and appreciate its ability to control entry hazards. Spikers like Skarmory and Ferrothorn greatly appreciate Defog prevention and can easily set multiple layers of Spikes. Ground-types like Hippowdon and Landorus-T take very little damage from Zeraora’s attacks, so Water-types like Rotom-W and Tapu Fini are great partners to threaten them. Zeraora also relies much on Heavy-Duty Boots to stay healthy, so Pokemon like Skarmory and Clefable are great partners to switch into Knock Off without much drawback.

Zeraora's lightning fast Speed, in conjunction with its Volt Switch and Electric immunity, gives it a solid niche as an offensive pivot. Knock Off allows Zeraora to cripple many of its switch-ins, as Ferrothorn, Gastrodon, and Landorus-T despise losing their items. It's also Zeraora's only way of getting past Gliscor, although Gliscor must not have activated Toxic Orb for it to do so. Alternatively, Close Combat smashes Excadrill, Ferrothorn, and Blissey and lets Zeraora revenge kill dangerous offensive Pokemon like Mega Lopunny and Kartana. Volt Switch allows Zeraora to keep momentum against Pokemon it cannot break through, such as Tangrowth, Clefable, and Ferrothorn. Toxic cripples Ground-types that can otherwise prevent Zeraora from pivoting with Volt Switch, as well as ruining Mega Latias's and Tangrowth's longevity. Zeraora is completely unable to bypass Ground-types, as the best it can do is wear them down with Toxic. As such, partners like Kyurem, Weavile, and Ash-Greninja are fantastic teammates to remedy this issue. The former two can also handle Grass-types that Zeraora can't deal with. Ash-Greninja appreciates Zeraora's Knock Off support, as its Spikes become even more effective when Pokemon like Ferrothorn and Blissey lack Leftovers or Heavy-Duty Boots. Zeraora's mediocre bulk prevents it from coming onto the field easily, so pivots like Slowbro, Slowking, Corviknight, and Blissey make good partners. Corviknight deals with Ground-types well, while Ice Beam Slowbro can lure in Ground-types and surprise them. Wallbreakers such as Mega Charizard Y, Swords Dance Kartana, and Tapu Lele wallbreak for Zeraora in the early- and mid-game, giving it an easier time cleaning late-game. They also appreciate Zeraora's ability to bring them in with Volt Switch. Zeraora can form VoltTurn cores with partners like Landorus-T and Mega Scizor, allowing them to maintain momentum while pressuring the opposing team.

Flyinium Z Zeraora capitalizes on luring in and KOing the Grass-types that typically trouble Electric teams, such as Mega Venusaur, Tapu Bulu, and Rillaboom, making it a fearsome physical wallbreaker and setup sweeper. Bulk Up lets Zeraora set up in front of Pokemon like Ferrothorn, Mega Scizor, and Tyranitar, making it deadly in matchups like Steel and Dark by becoming difficult to wall and revenge kill after a couple of boosts. Close Combat provides important coverage against foes such as Blissey, Heatran, and Ferrothorn. Bounce is required in the last moveslot to use Supersonic Skystrike, powerful Flying-type coverage that makes Zeraora very threatening against Grass and Poison teams. Maximum Speed investment with a Jolly nature allows Zeraora to outspeed fast foes like Choice Scarf Tapu Bulu and Mega Lopunny, as well as Barraskewda outside of rain. All teammates on Electric teams appreciate Flyinium Z Zeraora luring in and removing troublesome Grass-types, like Mega Venusaur and Tapu Bulu, while still retaining the ability to defeat specially defensive walls such as Blissey and Tyranitar. Tapu Koko can handle Dragon-types such as Kommo-o, Mega Latias, and unboosted Mega Altaria, which are especially troublesome for Zeraora. Additionally, it can beat annoying Ground-types for Zeraora such as Landorus-T and Gliscor with Hidden Power Ice, as well as Hippowdon, Gastrodon, and Seismitoad with Grass Knot. Alongside Zeraora, Alolan Raichu can put a lot of pressure on Poison-types such as Mega Venusaur and Galarian Weezing due to its Psychic typing, while also beating Ground-types such as Hippowdon, Gastrodon, and Seismitoad with Grass Knot. Additionally, it outspeeds almost the entire metagame under Electric Terrain, which crucially lets it handle threats that outspeed even Zeraora like boosted Kommo-o, Kingdra in rain, and Sand Rush Excadrill. Tapu Koko, Alolan Raichu, and Regieleki can all handle physically bulky checks to Zeraora like Porygon2 and Galarian Corsola as well. Zapdos provides a Ground immunity for threats like Excadrill while removing entry hazards for Zeraora. It can also dispose of defensive Ground-type threats such as Mega Steelix with its Choice Specs set. Rotom-W forces out Ground-types like Hippowdon, Mamoswine, and Gliscor due to Levitate and its powerful STAB Hydro Pump. It also keeps certain faster Pokemon like Choice Scarf Victini, Barraskewda, and Choice Scarf Galarian Darmanitan in check for Zeraora. Both Magnezone and Alolan Golem can trap and eliminate or weaken Steel-types like Excadrill and Ferrothorn, giving Zeraora an even better shot at breaking through Steel teams. Magnezone's Steel typing also lets it provide a switch-in against Fairy-, Dragon-, and Poison-type attacks, and Alolan Golem can provide Stealth Rock support.

Zeraora is the premier physical wallbreaker for Electric teams thanks to its solid Attack stat, amazing coverage options, and amazing Speed tier, being able to pressure specially defensive walls such as Blissey, Alolan Muk, and Piloswine that are otherwise extremely difficult to handle for Electric teams. Close Combat threatens key Steel-, Dark-, and Normal-types such as Heatran, Tyranitar, and Diggersby. Play Rough helps a ton in the Dragon matchup, targeting Dragon-types such as Kommo-o, Mega Altaria, and Garchomp. Additionally, it nails the likes of Buzzwole, Mega Latias, and Mega Sableye. Iron Tail can be used instead to severely damage Fairy-types that Zeraora lures in like Tapu Bulu and Galarian Weezing. Knock Off notably provides coverage against Ghost- and Psychic-types like Blacephalon, Latias, and Latios while removing Eviolite from bulky threats such as Porygon2 and Galarian Corsola. Choice Band maximizes Zeraora's ability to threaten types like Dark, Dragon, and Normal. Maximum Speed investment with a Jolly nature allows Zeraora to outspeed key threats like Greninja and Mega Lopunny as well as Barraskewda outside of rain. All teammates appreciate Zeraora dealing with specially defensive walls like Blissey, Alolan Muk, and Piloswine, especially since it's one of the only viable physical attackers on Electric teams. Tapu Koko can deal with troublesome Ground-types like Gliscor and Landorus with Hidden Power Ice, as well as Hippowdon, Gastrodon, and Seismitoad with Grass Knot, which Zeraora appreciates. Additionally, it can take on Dragon-types like Kommo-o, unboosted Mega Altaria, and unboosted Mega Latias for Zeraora if it isn't running Play Rough. Alolan Raichu's Psychic typing lets it deal with threatening Poison-types to Zeraora such as Mega Venusaur and Galarian Weezing, and it also utilizes Grass Knot to beat Ground-types like Hippowdon, Gastrodon, and Seismitoad. When under Electric Terrain, it also outspeeds and handles the likes of Sand Rush Excadrill, Choice Scarf Greninja, and Mega Swampert in rain, which all outspeed and threaten Zeraora. Zapdos can deal with Ground- and Grass-types like Excadrill, Rillaboom, and Tapu Bulu while removing entry hazards that may cripple Zeraora with Defog. With its Choice Specs set, it is able to power through the defensive Grass- and Ground-types, such as Mega Venusaur and Swampert, that Zeraora hates. Zapdos or Rotom-W can provide a Ground immunity, with the latter forcing out Ground-types like Hippowdon, Mamoswine, and Gliscor with a powerful STAB Hydro Pump and keeping certain revenge killers in check for Zeraora, such as Choice Scarf Blacephalon and Choice Scarf Galarian Darmanitan. Both Magnezone and Alolan Golem can trap and eliminate or weaken certain Steel-types like Excadrill and Ferrothorn, giving Zeraora a better shot at breaking through Steel teams. Notably, Magnezone's Steel typing lets it take on Pokemon like Latias while making it a switch-in against Fairy- and Poison-type attacks, and Alolan Golem can provide Stealth Rock support.

Moves Plasma Fists should be used against Pokemon with lower Defense than Special Defense, such as a Magearna that has used Calm Mind. Conversely, Thunder should be used against Pokemon with lower Special Defense than Defense, such as a Magearna that has used Iron Defense. Charge allows Zeraora to beat Tapu Lele, Magearna, and other special attackers with its Special Defense boost in addition to its doubling of the following turn's Gigavolt Havoc damage. Fake Out is needed to help any potential damage rolls such as against Mega Gyarados. As this set does not have very heavy investment in either offense, it needs the extra damage from Fake Out to ensure wins. It also breaks Sturdy from Pokemon like Carracosta, Crustle, and Sawk. Set Details 60 Attack EVs guarantee an OHKO on Fairium Z Magearna after a Charge boost even when Magearna uses Calm Mind. 168 Special Attack EVs ensure an OHKO after Fake Out on bulky Mega Gyarados. 128 Special Defense EVs allows Zeraora to always survive bulky Tapu Lele's Shattered Psyche after a Charge boost. Finally, 152 Speed EVs let Zeraora outspeed Mega Gengar and other base 130 Speed Pokemon. Usage Tips Because Charge boosts the damage of both Zeraora's STAB moves, it is effective against Pokemon that can boost either defense like the aforementioned Magearna and Tapu Lele. Always target the weaker effective defense; for example, even though Mega Gyarados's base Special Defense is higher than its Defense, because of Gyarados's Intimidate, Zeraora should use Gigavolt Havoc from Thunder. Against Tapu Lele, Zeraora should use Charge t1, due to Psychic Terrain preventing the use of Fake Out. Keep in mind that if the Tapu Lele is an offensive set rather than the more common bulky variant, Zeraora will need to use Electrium Z-boosted Plasma Fists immediately. It also beats almost all Sableye sets, with even the most physically bulky having a 50% chance to be OHKOed by a Charge-boosted Gigavolt Havoc from Plasma Fists. Some stall Pokemon like Type: Null and Whimsicott cannot be defeated by mixed Zeraora, for it just does not do enough damage. Team Options Physically bulky special attackers like Genesect, Primarina, and Mega Slowbro can beat Ground-types such as Donphan, Zygarde, and Landorus-T. In return, Zeraora will help beat opposing bulky special attackers such as Tapu Fini, Tapu Lele, and Magnezone. Bulky offensive Pokemon like Dragonite, Magearna, and Mega Swampert can tank hits from faster foes such as Choice Scarf Porygon-Z, Mega Lopunny, and Pheromosa; in return, Zeraora will shut down wallbreakers such as Mega Charizard Y, Carracosta, and Tapu Fini. Wallbreakers of your own like Aegislash, Victini, and Hoopa-U can break through Pokemon that are too bulky for Zeraora to handle such as Mega Mawile, Mega Metagross, and Mega Venusaur, while Zeraora will help them beat faster or harder-hitting Pokemon such as Mega Gyarados and Volcarona. Mixed Zeraora will need versatile Water-type teammates like Primarina, Tapu Fini, and Greninja to beat Dragon-types like Mega Charizard X, Zygarde, Haxorus, and Dragonite. Keep in mind that Choice Scarf Haxorus will beat Greninja, and physical Flyinium Z Dragonite will usually beat Primarina and Tapu Fini. In return, Zeraora will defeat Pokemon like Magearna, Tapu Lele, and Magnezone.

Moves Plasma Fists and Gigavolt Havoc are used to beat most Water-types, Flying-types, and frail Pokemon such as Mega Gyarados, Tapu Fini, Primarina, Mega Charizard Y, non-Choice Scarf Greninja, and Normalium Z Porygon-Z. Outrage is mainly for Dragon-types such as Mega Charizard X, Haxorus, and Naganadel, but it can be used to hit many foes that don't resist it because of the inherent synergy between Electric- and Dragon-type moves. Bulk Up is both to boost Zeraora's damage output and reduce damage taken from physical attacks. The most specific attack it helps Zeraora take is Mega Charizard X's Dragon Dance-boosted Outrage, but it can also help with slower Pokemon such as Mega Gyarados. Fake Out is not only a little bit of practically free damage to secure what would normally be damage rolls, but it also potentially scouts Charizard's Mega Evolution and breaks non-Ground-type Sturdy Pokemon like Carracosta and Sawk. It can also break Dragonite's Multiscale, allowing Zeraora to win against non-Dragonium Z variants. Charge doubles Gigavolt Havoc's damage and helps against special attackers because of the extra Special Defense it provides. Offensive Heatran and Genesect require both the Special Defense increase from Charge as well as a boosted Gigavolt Havoc in order to be beaten. Set Details 48 HP and 120 Defense EVs allow Zeraora to survive a Jolly Mega Charizard X's Outrage. 88 Speed EVs with a Jolly nature let it outspeed non-Choice Scarf Greninja. 252 Attack EVs help it hit as hard as possible to prevent unnecessary damage rolls against foes such as Mega Gyarados and Mega Charizard X. Usage Tips Keep in mind that against Dragonite, it is better to use Gigavolt Havoc rather than Outrage after using Fake Out and Bulk Up. However, Zeraora will lose to Dragonium Z Dragonite. Do remember to predict whether the opponent has a Mega Charizard X or Mega Charizard Y, because against Mega Charizard X, Zeraora will have to use Bulk Up, while if it is Mega Charizard Y, Zeraora will need to use Gigavolt Havoc. Using Fake Out can ease this prediction, if they Mega Evolve turn one, but some may choose to avoid this, if they predict Fake Out. Zeraora should be sent out against the aforementioned Flying- and Water-types, certain Dragon-types such as Haxorus and Mega Charizard X, and Pokemon without a way to effectively hit it like Magnezone and Normalium Z Meloetta. Fake Out should be used against practically everything except Tapu Lele, as it will simply be blocked with Psychic Terrain. Team Options Bulky Water-types like Tapu Fini, Primarina, and Mega Slowbro can beat Ground-types such as Donphan, Zygarde, and Landorus-T as well as Dragonium Z Dragonite. In return, Zeraora will help beat Pokemon that threaten them such as opposing Tapu Fini, Mega Charizard Y, and Magnezone. Bulky offense Pokemon like Dragonite, Magearna, and Mega Swampert can tank attacks from hyper offense Pokemon such as Choice Scarf Porygon-Z, Mega Lopunny, Choice Scarf Garchomp, and Pheromosa. In return, Zeraora will shut down wallbreakers such as Mega Charizard X and Y, Carracosta, and Tapu Fini. Wallbreaking Pokemon like Aegislash, Victini, and Hoopa-U can break through Pokemon that are too bulky for Zeraora to handle such as Mega Mawile, Mega Venusaur, bulky Tapu Lele, and Magearna; in return, Zeraora will help beat faster or harder-hitting Pokemon such as Mega Charizard X, Mega Gyarados, and Volcarona.

Moves Plasma Fists is Zeraora's strongest Electric-type STAB move, which allows it to heavily damage any foe that doesn't resist it under Electric Terrain. Bounce is used in tandem with Flyinium Z in order to lure and take out problematic Grass-types such as Mega Venusaur and Tapu Bulu. Close Combat is used as a solid coverage move that threatens various threats to Electric teams like Chansey and Ferrothorn. Bulk Up boosts Zeraora's physical capabilities to greater heights. Set Details Maximum Attack and Speed investment coupled with a Jolly nature allows Zeraora to hit as hard and as fast as possible, all while outspeeding incredibly fast foes such as Mega Lopunny and Choice Scarf Tapu Bulu. Flyinium Z is used in combination with Bounce in order to unleash Supersonic Skystrike. Volt Absorb gives Zeraora an immunity to Electric-type moves and can be useful for deterring Volt Switch pivoting. Usage Tips Zeraora can also be used as a late-game sweeper, as its incredible Speed stat enables it to outspeed nearly the entirety of the unboosted metagame, as well as slower boosted foes such as Choice Scarf Tapu Bulu and Mega Tyranitar after a Dragon Dance boost. Zeraora should keep in mind when to reveal Bulk Up, as utilizing the move alerts the opponent that Zeraora is the Z-Crystal user on the team. It should also avoid switching directly into attacks, as it must be kept as healthy as possible in order to effectively break down and sweep teams. Utilize the pivoting created from teammates such as Rotom-Wash and Tapu Koko to put Zeraora into favorable positions and gain momentum. Avoid burns from Will-O-Wisp users such as Mew, as they will heavily hamper Zeraora's damage output. Team Options Tapu Koko provides Zeraora with a means of checking threatening Dragon-types such as Garchomp and Mega Latias. It also provides Electric Terrain support that would slightly boost the power of Zeraora's Plasma Fists and can utilize Volt Switch in order to put it in favorable positions. Zapdos assists Zeraora with a critical Ground immunity that helps against foes such as Excadrill and Landorus while also providing utility functions that include Volt Switch to bring Zeraora into favorable postitions and Defog to remove entry hazards. Rotom-Wash provides another key Ground immunity for Zeraora, being able to check Ground-types such as Gliscor and Hippowdon through Hydro Pump as well as cripple physical checks such as Mega Gallade and Swampert through Will-O-Wisp. Additionally, it can use Volt Switch to keep up offensive pressure against the opponent and bring Zeraora in safely. Alolan Raichu can support Zeraora by threatening faster foes such as Mega Aerodactyl and Choice Scarf Greninja under Electric Terrain, while also checking more of the foes that Zeraora is meant to break down, such as Nidoking and Mega Venusaur. Alolan Golem provides utility for Zeraora as a Stealth Rock user that is also able to trap certain checks such as Excadrill when holding an Air Balloon.

Moves Plasma Fists is Zeraora's most powerful physical STAB attack, dealing huge damage to foes especially under Electric Terrain. Close Combat is extremely handy coverage for Zeraora, allowing it to take on bulky Normal- and Steel-types like Porygon2 and Ferrothorn. Knock Off most importantly hits Psychic-types like Latios for big damage while also providing utility by removing items such as Eviolite and Choice Scarf. Iron Tail ensures Zeraora is effective against Fairy-types, most notably outspeeding and OHKOing Choice Scarf Tapu Bulu after minor chip while also helping with Mega Altaria; however, be wary of its low accuracy, only using it when completely necessary. Set Details Maximum Attack and Speed investment with a Jolly nature ensures that Zeraora is as strong as possible while still outspeeding fast and threatening Pokemon like Mega Lopunny and Choice Scarf Tapu Bulu. Volt Absorb is Zeraora's only ability, which can come in handy with Plasma Fists's secondary effect and also prevents foes like Zapdos from using Volt Switch to gain momentum. Choice Band boosts Zeraora's Attack, which enables it to gain notable 2HKOs such as against Porygon2. Usage Tips As a physical wallbreaker, Zeraora is best used to continuously come in throughout the battle to force switches and deal huge blows while under Electric Terrain. Be sure to remove common Electric-immune Pokemon from the opponent's team such as Excadrill, Swampert, and Gliscor as soon as possible so that Zeraora can take full advantage of its powerful Plasma Fists in Electric Terrain. As Zeraora is the most vital Pokemon in the Normal matchup, use it sparingly to deal huge blows with Close Combat and take advantage of Knock Off to remove Eviolite from Chansey and Porygon2 to further aid its teammates in case it is unable to overcome the opponent alone. Take advantage of partners with a slow pivoting move such as Rotom-Wash and Zapdos to safely bring in Zeraora throughout the battle, giving Zeraora opportunities to wallbreak. Furthermore, avoid switching Zeraora directly into oncoming attacks, as it needs to remain healthy throughout the battle to be effective. In matchups where Zeraora is of little use such as Poison and Ground, try to take advantage of the utility of Knock Off as much as possible to attempt to disrupt the opposing team's item usage. Be wary of the defense drops that accompany Close Combat, as Zeraora will take huge blows following its use, leaving it easily checked, especially by Pokemon with priority such as Breloom and Dragonite. Considering Zeraora is a Choice-locked attacker, try to think ahead when choosing what move to use. An inappropriate choice can allow a foe to freely switch into Zeraora and can even allow a foe to punish Zeraora by using a setup move. Avoid burns at all costs, as they hinder Zeraora's physical prowess, inhibiting its function as a wallbreaker. Team Options As the vast majority of Electric-types are special attackers, they all vastly appreciate Zeraora's function as a physical wallbreaker to remove specially defensive walls such as Chansey. Air Balloon Alolan Golem is an excellent partner, as it serves the double purpose of both a Stealth Rock setter, slowly chipping down foes for Zeraora, and a trapper, notably trapping and removing Choice Scarf Excadrill for Zeraora. Tapu Koko is a very important Pokemon for every Electric team due to its ability to set Electric Terrain upon switching in, which further boosts Zeraora's Plasma Fists, making it an even more potent wallbreaker. It also serves very well in the Dragon matchup, where, with Zeraora, it can take down Pokemon that otherwise wall most Electric-types. Alolan Raichu is another great partner for Zeraora as a special sweeper that greatly appreciates Zeraora's ability to remove special walls. In addition, Alolan Raichu can check Pokemon faster than Zeraora, including Mega Aerodactyl and Choice Scarf Excadrill, while under Electric Terrain. Additionally, Alolan Raichu can take on Poison-types that Zeraora can't do much against such as Mega Venusaur and Nidoking. Rotom-Wash and Zapdos are both amazing defensive partners that together help deal with Electric-immune Pokemon that Zeraora has difficulty with such as Hippowdon and Landorus. In addition, they can remove entry hazards from the field, act as slow pivots, and neuter foes with status. Rotom-Wash in particular can also take on Ground-types that Zeraora is unable to deal with such as Gliscor and Hippowdon. Thundurus can be another effective teammate in helping deal with the troublesome Normal matchup by providing additional Knock Off support and Fighting-type coverage. Additionally, Thundurus can help deal with Mega Venusaur with a Supersonic Skystrike set for Zeraora to effectively rip through the remainder of Poison-type teams.

Moves Fake Out provides a partner with a chance to set up or take out an opposing threat, potentially providing a heavy momentum swing in your direction. Plasma Fists is Zeraora's main way of dealing damage; though it also neutralizes most Normal-type moves, this interaction rarely happens in DOU play. Snarl supports Zeraora's partners by weakening opposing special attacks, which is especially effective because Zeraora outspeeds most notable special attackers, including Tapu Koko and Mega Manectric. Knock Off can also be used to remove Berries or other crucial items like Chansey's Eviolite. Volt Switch allows Zeraora's partners to get on the field in a more favorable position and allows Zeraora to come back in at a later turn and apply more pressure with Fake Out and Snarl. Set Details Assault Vest is used to bolster Zeraora's special bulk, as it benefits most from using four attacking moves anyway. 192 Speed EVs with a Jolly nature ensure Zeraora will always outspeed Mega Manectric. The EVs invested into bulk allow Zeraora to take either a Stomping Tantrum from Mega Metagross or a rain-boosted Hydro Vortex from Kingdra. The remaining EVs are placed into Attack to boost the damage output of Plasma Fists. Usage Tips Zeraora functions well as a lead, as it can usually pivot out if you find yourself in a bad position, and its faster Fake Out means you can generally control opposing Trick Room or other setup leads. However, do not misinterpret this as Zeraora being a dedicated lead — such a thing does not exist in Doubles, and Zeraora can also perform successfully when it is kept in the back and used to set up a partner Pokemon mid- or late-game. Pivoting with Zeraora often is crucial, as it is highly beneficial to get it on the field at the same time as a setup Pokemon like Zygarde, allowing it to provide a free turn with Fake Out or weaken opposing Pokemon with Snarl to get Zygarde ready to set up Dragon Dance. Generally you are not saving Zeraora for late-game unless you have weakened the other team significantly. While Zeraora is fast, its attacks won't hit particularly hard, so it is very difficult to use as a cleaner. Team Options Pokemon that would generally lose momentum trying to set up pair well with Zeraora. Zygarde comes to mind, as both Fake Out and Snarl can put it in more favorable positions to set up Dragon Dance. Suicune fits on this point as well, as the free turn from Fake Out to set up Tailwind can be very beneficial. Landorus-T, another Ground-type, pairs extremely well with Zeraora, as it provides Intimidate and both Pokemon cover each other's checks fairly well. On the same token, you will need to be able to deal with opposing Ground-types like Zygarde and Landorus-T, as they completely wall Zeraora and don't care much about Snarl. Good options for dealing with those Pokemon include Tapu Fini and Kyurem-B. Zeraora cannot do anything to deal with Grass-types like Tapu Bulu and Amoonguss, so Pokemon like Incineroar or Kyurem-B are fantastic partners for it. Zeraora is a good option to place on teams that might be threatened by fast special attackers like Tapu Koko and Mega Manectric so Pokemon like Kommo-o and Zygarde feel more safe to set up. Since Zeraora is not really used as an offensive Pokemon, it is necessary to keep in mind during building that you may not want too many passive Pokemon on your team; while Tapu Fini and Ferrothorn are solid partners for Zeraora, you do not want your team to be stuck with not enough offensive firepower. However, this can be mitigated by opting for more offensive sets on them, like Calm Mind Tapu Fini and Curse Ferrothorn. Zeraora teams can also really benefit from having a Shadow Tag Pokemon like Gothitelle, which can keep foes on the field that have been weakened by Snarl while Zeraora pivots out to get in a Pokemon to potentially set up more safely in front of them.

Moves Return is Zeraora's main STAB move, which hits targets that resist or are immune to Electric-type moves such as Zygarde and Kartana hard. Plasma Fists threatens Water- and Flying-types such as Pinsirite Magearna, Primal Kyogre, and Arceus-Water. Bulk Up improves Zeraora's chances of cleaning and allows it to take less damage from Altarianite Zygarde and Entei. Fake Out allows Zeraora to Mega Evolve safely turn one as well as granting it a priority move. It also improves Zeraora's ability to revenge kill weakened Terrakion and Darkrai. Taunt allows Zeraora to prevent status moves and stop defensive Pokemon like Aggronite Buzzwole, Manectite Mew, and support Arceus formes from recovering. Set Details Pinsirite gives Zeraora a great ability in Aerilate, greater Attack and Speed, and a fantastic secondary Flying typing. Jolly is recommended to outspeed threats like Metagrossite Kartana and Diancite Tapu Lele. Volt Absorb is Zeraora's only ability, but it does provide some utility against some Pokemon such as Zapdos and even other Zeraora. Usage Tips This set's function is as a sweeper capable of cleaning up late-game once Zeraora's checks have been removed, as well as a reliable revenge killer for Kartana, Terrakion, and Lunala after they have been previously damaged. Zeraora should be brought in on a U-turn or Volt Switch or after a Pokemon is sacrificed so that it is able to force out threats such as Primal Kyogre. Zeraora primarily should set up on defensive Pokemon that it can force out with its STAB attacks, such as Sablenite Buzzwole and Skarmory. Zeraora is also able to set up on the likes of Metagrossite Kartana on more offensive teams. Zeraora's typing after Mega Evolving is important for checking Pokemon like Kartana and Sablenite Buzzwole as well as providing it a Ground immunity, so Zeraora should Mega Evolve as early as possible with the help of Fake Out. Team Options This set would fit best on offensive teams due to its ability to sweep late-game and prevent opposing cleaners from running through your team in return. Sticky Web and Stealth Rock support from teammates like Shuckle and Primal Groudon can be useful for letting Zeraora outspeed fast foes more easily and wearing down bulky foes, and Primal Groudon can also check Magearna. Defoggers such as Skarmory and Sablenite Mandibuzz can get rid of Stealth Rock for Zeraora to keep it healthy and giving it more chances to set up or attack. Special wallbreakers such as Lunala, Darkrai, and Primal Kyogre pair well with Zeraora, as they can come in on Pokemon that would check Zeraora and start wallbreaking. Physical threats like Altarianite Zygarde and Kartana also make good teammates, as they can work together with Taunt Zeraora to break down physical walls. If Zeraora is not running Fake Out, it's good to have an Altarianite Pokemon such as Zygarde or Entei to be able to check Diancite Darkrai and keep faster foes in check more reliably.