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Meteor Beam is Nihilego's most important move, boosting Special Attack and muscling past checks like Celesteela once they're chipped. Sludge Wave hits tier staples like Primarina, Tangrowth, and Hydreigon. Thunderbolt allows Nihilego to hit Steel-types like Jirachi and Cobalion neutrally and other checks like Celesteela and Slowking super effectively. Power Gem can be used in place of Thunderbolt for a more reliable hit on Pokemon like Mandibuzz, Salamence, and Thundurus-T. Grass Knot deals with Ground-types like Hippowdon, Swampert, and Quagsire. Pain Split can be used to give Nihilego some recovery, though the lack of coverage creates more issues. Power Herb is required for Meteor Beam. The given EV spread and a Timid nature make Speed Nihilego's highest stat for Beast Boost, letting it outspeed revenge killers like Keldeo and Azelf. This set fits on hyper offense teams, where Nihilego can KO weakened checks like Celesteela with Meteor Beam to boost both its Speed and Special Attack. Entry hazard setters like Krookodile, Scolipede, and Excadrill help Nihilego by weakening some of its checks, like Nidoking and Celesteela. Keldeo and Belly Drum Azumarill are extremely strong wallbreakers that can punch holes for Nihilego to sweep late-game, destroying Chansey, Celesteela, and Excadrill. Secondary sweepers like Gyarados and Scizor can break past or dent Nidoqueen and Steel-types like Jirachi, Aegislash, and Celesteela. In return, Nihilego can remove Thundurus-T.

Nihilego's typing allows it to switch into a majority of the tier's Defoggers, including Salamence, Mandibuzz, and Moltres, and set Stealth Rock. Power Gem threatens many Defoggers and hits neutral targets Sludge Bomb can't, like Galarian Slowbro, Scizor, Skarmory, and Celesteela. Sludge Bomb threatens Pokemon such as Tangrowth and Primarina. Sludge Bomb poisons are helpful for crippling checks like Swampert. Grass Knot nails Hippowdon and Swampert attempting to switch in, though they need a fair bit of chip damage on them. Knock Off cripples checks to Nihilego like Chansey and Celesteela. It's also great for removing Heavy-Duty Boots from Defoggers. Black Sludge mitigates entry hazards and chip damage. The given EV spread and a Timid nature make Speed Nihilego's highest stat for Beast Boost, letting it outspeed revenge killers like Keldeo, Zarude, and Azelf. This set fits on every playstyle except hyper offense. Nihilego's team appreciates its good defensive typing and Knock Off, and its offensive capabilities are valuable for removing threats like Primarina and Salamence. Stall in particular appreciates Nihilego's good matchup against Nasty Plot Togekiss and Thundurus-T. Skarmory is an amazing partner for Nihilego, forming an entry hazard stacking core with it and checking major threats like Excadrill, Hippowdon, and Zarude. In return, Nihilego beats threats to Skarmory like Moltres and Thundurus-T. Wallbreakers like Thundurus-T, Mamoswine, and Conkeldurr love Nihilego setting up Stealth Rock and weakening their checks like Assault Vest Tangrowth, Celesteela, and Amoonguss. Chansey completely walls this set even after having its Eviolite removed, so these wallbreakers can also take care of it. Pivots like Slowking, Azelf, and Zarude can bring in Nihilego to set Stealth Rock and wallbreak. Salamence and Rotom-H deal with Steel-types that threaten Nihilego, like Scizor and Cobalion.

Choice Scarf Nihilego usefully outpaces Pokemon like Dragonite, Dragapult, +1 Volcarona, Choice Scarf Galarian Darmanitan, Zeraora, and Tornadus. Power Gem helps with Pokemon like Galarian Darmanitan, Victini, and Zapdos. Thunderbolt effectively hits Water-types like Mantine and Slowbro as well as Flying-types neutral to Power Gem like Celesteela and Corviknight. Dazzling Gleam is for Dragon-type Pokemon like Dragapult and Garchomp, notably OHKOing Hydreigon. Grass Knot damages Water- and Ground-types while specifically 2HKOing Gastrodon and Hippowdon and OHKOing Swampert and Seismitoad after chip damage. Stealth Rock is an option over Grass Knot, but it is expendable due to most Fire-, Flying-, and Bug-type Pokemon running Heavy-Duty Boots. Utilize Nihilego's high Special Defense to switch into Pokemon like Alolan Ninetales, Volcarona, Toxapex, and Zapdos. Because Nihilego is a revenge killer, it does not appreciate being paralyzed. Nihilego struggles with Ground-types like Excadrill, Gastrodon, and Landorus-T, Water-types like Slowking and Barraskewda, and priority users like Azumarill and Urshifu-R, but having Amoonguss as a teammate helps. Amoonguss is Poison's best switch-in to Mold Breaker Excadrill and spreads status like sleep from Spore, paralysis from Stun Spore, and poison from Sludge Bomb, which is beneficial for the entire team. It is threatened by Fire-types like Volcarona, Blacephalon, and Victini, which Choice Scarf Nihilego can revenge kill. Toxapex helps Nihilego by sponging Steel-type attacks like Iron Head and Bullet Punch while also forming a Regenerator core with Amoonguss. In return, Nihilego revenge kills threats with Psychic-type coverage like Zen Headbutt Cinderace and Psychic Volcarona while benefitting from Toxapex getting rid of items such as Leftovers and Eviolite with Knock Off, spreading status with Scald, Toxic Spikes, and Toxic, and preventing Pokemon like Dragapult and Tapu Bulu from setting up with Haze. Galarian Weezing removes entry hazards with Defog and helps Nihilego with Dark- and Dragon-type Pokemon like Dragapult and Garchomp. In return, Nihilego helps it with Fire-types like Volcarona and Rotom-H along with having Dazzling Gleam itself to further improve Dragon matchups. Skuntank and Drapion offer the team Psychic immunity; Skuntank has Sucker Punch to revenge kill Alolan Raichu and Dragapult, while Drapion has utility moves like Knock Off and Toxic Spikes. They also help with Psychic-types like Galarian Slowking, Latias, and Victini. Nidoking offers Stealth Rock and helps with Electric- and Steel-type Pokemon like Regieleki, Tapu Koko, Ferrothorn, and Aegislash. In return, Nihilego helps with Ice-type Pokemon that threaten Nidoking like Galarian Darmanitan, Weavile, and Kyurem.

Nihilego is an excellent special setup sweeper for Rock teams, as it deals with Tapu Bulu, Corviknight, and Swampert, which Rock teams struggle with. Meteor Beam, in tandem with Power Herb, is what gets Nihilego going, providing Nihilego with a boost to its Special Attack. This lets it break through Pokemon such as Celesteela with chip damage. Sludge Wave helps Nihilego handle Fairy-types such as Tapu Bulu and Tapu Fini. Thunderbolt handles Water- and Flying-types such as Slowbro and Celesteela, while Grass Knot deals with Ground-types like Hippowdon, Swampert, and Gastrodon. This combination of coverage helps Nihilego break down Water teams late-game. Maximum speed EVs with 176 Special Attack investment allows Nihilego's ability, Beast Boost, to boost its Speed stat after it defeats a Pokemon. This turns Nihilego into an excellent late-game sweeper, as it prevents it from being revenge-killed by Tapu Koko, non-Choice Scarf Weavile, and Choice Scarf Galarian Zapdos. Shuckle makes for a great teammate, as it sets entry hazards such as Stealth Rock. Shuckle also has access to Knock Off, which gets rid of Leftovers from Celesteela and Corviknight, making it easier for Nihilego to break past them. Tyranitar provides sand, boosting Nihilego's Special Defense, and handles walls that Nihilego struggles to take on such as Slowking, Galarian Slowking, and Klefki, all while checking Psychic- and Ghost-types. Choice Scarf Terrakion deals with faster threats such as Weavile, Zarude, and Cinderace. Rhyperior makes for an excellent teammate, as it is immune to Electric and can dismantle Steel-types such as Magnezone and Klefki easily, which render Nihilego useless. Shell Smash Barbaracle can dismantle Ground- and Water-type Pokemon such as Gastrodon and other Pokemon Nihilego struggles with such as Aegislash after a boost. Air Balloon is also a solid option on Barbaracle, as it can switch into Choice Scarf Excadrill's Earthquake, which would otherwise revenge kill Nihilego freely.

Power Herb Meteor Beam deals major damage and raises Nihilego's Special Attack in one turn, which works well with Beast Boost raising Speed after every KO. Meteor Beam is usually a one-time use move considering Power Herb, so Power Gem is ideal for consistency in the rest of the match. Thunderbolt helps with Water- and Flying-type Pokemon like Mantine, Toxapex, and Celesteela, further improving Nihilego's Flying matchup. Grass Knot is crucial for removing bulky Ground-types like Swampert and Seismitoad. The given EV spread causes Beast Boost to raise Speed, which makes Nihilego faster than the likes of Choice Scarf Landorus-T and Tornadus-T after a KO. Amoonguss is great for sponging Water- and Ground-type attacks from Pokemon such as Barraskewda, Excadrill, and Landorus-T. In return, Nihilego helps with Ice- and Fire-type Pokemon like Mamoswine, Glastrier, and Blacephalon. Nihilego is weak to Psychic-type moves, which makes Drapion or Skuntank a great addition to your team. Drapion has Toxic Spikes and Knock Off to get rid of items like Leftovers and Eviolite, whereas Skuntank has Defog along with Sucker Punch for revenge killing Psychic- and Ghost-type Pokemon like Alolan Raichu and Dragapult. Toxapex helps Nihilego with Steel-type Pokemon like Scizor and Melmetal along with a number of physical attackers like Aqua Jet Crawdaunt, Urshifu-R, and Weavile. Galarian Weezing prevents spam of Dragon-type moves and helps with Dark-types that can check Nihilego like Choice Scarf Weavile and Zarude. In return, Nihilego helps Galarian Weezing with Fire-type Pokemon like Heatran, Rotom-H, and Alolan Marowak. Nidoking offers Stealth Rock and helps Nihilego with Steel- and Electric-type Pokemon like Ferrothorn, Corviknight, and Tapu Koko. It also appreciates Nihilego's ability to deal with Ice-type Pokemon like Alolan Ninetales and Cloyster.

Meteor Beam, in conjunction with Power Herb, gives Nihilego insane burst damage with a Special Attack boost. Beast Boost lets Nihilego snowball through teams, pairing well with Meteor Beam, as Nihilego instantly gets to +2 Special Attack if it KOes. Power Gem and Sludge Bomb are reliable STAB attacks typically used to get KOs post-Meteor Beam, with Sludge Bomb being the default move for its higher power and Power Gem being handy for hitting Steel-types such as Heatran and Genesect as well as targets such as Kyurem-B, Zapdos, and Volcanion super effectively. Protect gives Nihilego safety as its team maneuvers around current positions, and it can be particularly handy in stalling out field conditions such as Tailwind and Trick Room. The given EV investment maximizes Nihilego's offensive presence, with the Speed in particular letting it get the jump on base 100 Speed Pokemon such as Zapdos and Mew as well as Urshifu-R.

Well-rounded base stats, Meteor Beam, and Beast Boost make Nihilego a potent wallbreaker and late-game cleaner. A Defense donation allows Nihilego to shed its poor physical bulk, making it difficult to revenge kill even with a lower Defense donation from the likes of Rayquaza or Yveltal. Meteor Beam + Power Herb provides an instant boost to Special Attack, giving Nihilego the strength it needs to kick off a sweep or wallbreak. Power Gem is used to hit common defensive staples like Landorus-T and Ho-Oh for high damage. Stealth Rock allows Nihilego to use its good bulk to support its team while still threatening to sweep. Sludge Bomb is necessary to stop Nihilego from being stone-walled by Unaware Clefable and Assault Vest Tangrowth and potentially offer some mid-game utility by poisoning opponents. Grass Knot hits Ground-type targets, like Groudon, Gastrodon, and Quagsire, which can otherwise stop Nihilego's sweep. Alternatively, Thunderbolt maintains super effective coverage against Water-types and has stronger neutral coverage against Steel-types, such as Bisharp, which would otherwise halt a sweep. Nihilego's best fit is on offense teams which can give it the support it needs to sweep. Magnet Pull Magnezone and Fire-type teammates like Victini and Heatran are appreciated for their ability to pressure Steel-types, which prevent Nihilego from sweeping; Fire- and Fighting-type coverage from teammates like Mewtwo and Kartana can also contribute. Nihilego's defensive typing means it can check threats like Tapu Koko and Galarian Moltres and so it can form a strong defensive backbone with the likes of Clefable and Landorus-T until it can freely sweep. Nihilego also appreciates faster teammates like Tapu Koko and Weavile that can help pick off faster threats, as its base 103 Speed outruns most relevant gods and their receivers but isn't stellar by any means.

Nihilego carves out a niche, utilizing its great coverage and snowballing ability to be a notable sweeper. Meteor Beam + Power Herb lets it gain a power boost while firing off a strong STAB move. Sludge Wave's higher power is preferred to secure KOs after boosting, but Sludge Bomb is an alternative that trades a bit of power for a higher chance to poison the target, which may prove useful in longer games. Thunderbolt hits Toxapex, Corviknight, and Skarmory hard, while Hidden Power Fire allows Nihilego to break through Ferrothorn and Mega Scizor. Hidden Power Ice can be used to hit Ground-types not weak to Grass Knot, such as Landorus-T, Garchomp, and Gliscor. However, Grass Knot will often be Nihilego's strongest option against bulky Ground-types, such as Hippowdon and Gastrodon. While Hidden Power Ice's targets tend to be more common, they usually do not have reliable recovery, while Grass Knot's targets do and are harder to wear down. The given EV spread ensures Beast Boost raises Nihilego's Speed after each KO. Nihilego fits best on offensive teams in need of a late game sweeper. Teammates that can deal with bulky Ground-types such as Garchomp and Excadrill are greatly appreciated. Landorus-T is a good answer to these Pokemon that can also provide U-turn support to help Nihilego enter the field safely. Landorus-T also provides entry hazards and threatens Steel-types that Nihilego can't break through, even wearing down Ferrothorn with Knock Off and Earthquake. Magnezone can help trap Kartana not locked into Sacred Sword, as well as certain bulky Steel-types such as Melmetal and Mega Scizor, all of which threaten Nihilego. As many of Nihilego's checks lack reliable recovery and/or are greatly pressured by Spikes, entry hazard support from Ferrothorn, Mew, and Greninja is appreciated. In particular, many bulky Steel-types that trouble Nihilego such as Heatran and Melmetal are quickly worn down by repeatedly switching into Spikes. Tapu Lele is a strong wallbreaker that can overwhelm some of Nihilego's Steel-type enemies over time, while also providing Psychic Terrain support to block priority attacks such as Bullet Punch from Mega Scizor, Water Shuriken from Ash-Greninja, and Aqua Jet from Urshifu-R.

Nihilego is a formidable utility Pokemon thanks to its incredible special bulk along with access to Toxic Spikes and Stealth Rock. Thanks to its typing, it is able to check a unique array of threats, from Fairy-types like Tapu Koko to Fire-types like Talonflame and Chandelure. Furthermore, Nihilego can also pressure common Defoggers like Tapu Fini and Mandibuzz, making it a great Toxic Spikes setter. Stealth Rock is a good alternative, but it competes with other Pokemon like Garchomp as a setter. Sludge Bomb is a spammable STAB move that allows Nihilego to spread additional poison and hits Tapu Fini. Power Gem hits Flying-types like Mandibuzz and Corviknight, and Talonflame, as well as Cinderace. Knock Off pairs well with Toxic Spikes, threatening Pokemon that get around Toxic Spikes like Heavy-Duty Boots users, Magic Guard users, and Steel-types like Assault Vest Jirachi. Regenerator provides Nihilego with much-needed longevity, allowing it to repeatedly switch into foes and set entry hazards. The given EV spread and a Calm nature ensure that Chandelure never 2HKOes Nihilego with Shadow Ball, while the remaining EVs improve Nihilego's abysmal physical bulk, enabling it to check the likes of Pixilate Tapu Koko and Talonflame. Nihilego fits best on balance teams with wallbreakers that appreciate it setting entry hazards reliably and checking some of the most dangerous wallbreakers in the metagame. Poisoning Pokemon, especially Ground-types such as Swampert, Garchomp and Hippowdon, allows wallbreakers like Desolate Land Heatran, Inteleon, and Garchomp to overwhelm them. These Pokemon also provide immediate pressure, which Nihilego often struggles at delivering. It pairs equally well with defensive pivots like Corviknight and Blissey, as it can switch into powerful wallbreakers like Chandelure and Tapu Koko that they struggle with; in return, these Pokemon can check Ground- and Water-types such as Garchomp, Landorus-T, and Inteleon, which Nihilego struggles with. As Nihilego crumbles to any physical attack it does not resist, sturdy physical walls like Dauntless Shield Mew and Skarmory are necessary teammates. Both Pokemon can also set Spikes, forming a dangerous entry hazard-stacking core with Nihilego. An additional answer to Cinderace in particular is helpful, like Toxapex and Primordial Sea Zapdos, as it is able to 2HKO Nihilego and the aforementioned wall. Lastly, Nihilego and its offensive teammates appreciate pivots like Tapu Koko and Mew, as they can keep up momentum with Toxic Spikes on the field, maximizing chip damage and preventing the opponent from removing it.

Nihilego has access to Meteor Beam, and in combination with Power Herb, it becomes instantaneously threatening through increasing its Special Attack and striking with a 120 BP STAB in one turn. Grass Knot hits common Stealth Rock leads like Swampert and Hippowdon very hard, Thunderbolt best hits the likes of Celesteela and Gyarados, Psyshock allows it to hit other Nihilego and Chansey, Power Gem is an alternative Rock STAB to use when not Dynamaxed, and Stealth Rock helps chip future switch-ins while giving access to a Max Guard option when Dynamaxed. The given EVs ensure Nihilego gets a Speed boost after a KO, complementing the SpA boost gained from Meteor Beam and making it difficult to be revenge killed by the likes of Choice Scarf Landorus-T.

Moves Power Gem is Nihilego's Rock-type STAB move, allowing it to KO Fire-, Bug-, and Flying-type Pokemon like Blacephalon, Mega Charizard X, Volcarona, and Mega Charizard Y. Sludge Wave lets Nihilego beat Grass- and Fairy-type Pokemon like Serperior, Whimsicott, and the Island Guardians. Hidden Power Ice can be used to KO non-Choice Scarf Landorus-T and Garchomp. Acid Spray is another option that can be used to beat stall Pokemon such as Deoxys-S and Mega Venusaur. Dazzling Gleam can be used to KO Kommo-o, Krookodile, and Hydreigon, while Grass Knot is an option to beat Pokemon such as Mega Swampert, Mega Slowbro and Quagsire. Thunderbolt hits Celesteela, and Mirror Coat can be run to beat specific specially offensive threats such as Genesect and Naganadel. Set Details 252 Special Attack EVs in conjunction with Choice Specs allow Nihilego to OHKO specially defensive Mega Charizard X. 252 Speed EVs along with Timid nature let it outspeed maximum Speed Garchomp. Choice Specs maximizes Nihilego's overall damage output. Usage Tips If running Hidden Power Ice, be aware that it cannot reliably OHKO Zygarde or Dragonite. Sturdy Pokemon like Golem, Crustle, and Donphan will be able to survive their respective coverage options, as well, and should be avoided. Team Options Nihilego's low Defense and weakness to Ground-type attacks make Ice-type Pokemon with considerable physical bulk like Avalugg and Cloyster fit in very well as partners. Nihilego's typing and inability to handle Steel- and Ground-type Pokemon make it almost a necessity to have a Pokemon like Mega Gyarados or Mega Blastoise that can beat them; these two are also good teammates because Nihilego can take care of Grass-types for them. Since Nihilego can struggle against Water-types, Grass-type Pokemon like Kartana, which can also run Sacred Sword to counter Dark-types, can be used to beat them. Also, Nihilego's weakness to Psychic and Steel makes Volcarona a viable teammate for Nihilego, as it can beat Pokemon like Mega Metagross and Mega Mawile. Fast Mega Heracross is also a good teammate, as it can beat Jumpluff, Heatran, Mega Gyarados, and Sturdy users, all of which trouble Nihilego, and Nihilego can beat Fairy- and Fire-types to support Mega Heracross in return.

Moves Acid Spray can be used to weaken bulky Pokemon like Mega Slowbro, Mega Sableye, Mega Venusaur, and Clefable while not having to worry about being afflicted with Taunt. Power Gem boosted into Continental Crush helps in defeating Mega Charizard Y and Mega Charizard X. Sludge Wave is helpful against Fairy-type Pokemon like Tapu Bulu and Whimsicott. Mirror Coat is also an option, since it could help in beating some special attackers such as Genesect and Naganadel. Dazzling Gleam can be run in order to beat Kommo-o. Set Details 88 HP EVs and 180 Defense EVs allow Nihilego to tank a Zen Headbutt from Adamant Choice Scarf Victini as well as a Hydro Vortex from a bulky Tapu Fini. Nihilego runs 240 Speed EVs with a Timid nature in order to be as fast as possible, outspeeding Pokemon such as Mega Charizard and non-Choice Scarf Victini, and Thundurus-T. Rockium Z converts Power Gem into a strong 160-Base Power Continental Crush. Usage Tips If the opposing Pokemon cannot be knocked out by Continental Crush or one of Nihilego's coverage moves immediately, the best course of action would be to use Acid Spray until they are in range of Continental Crush, not allowing them to boost their Special Defense. Nihilego cannot OHKO Pokemon like bulky Tapu Lele and Psyshock Mega Gardevoir, despite being a Fairy-type, and thus should avoid these matchups. Team Options Nihilego cannot handle Ground-type attacks, so Mega Blastoise can be used as a teammate to counter Pokemon that usually carry Ground-type moves, like Zygarde, Dragonite, Sturdy Pokemon like Donphan and Golem, and Ground-type Pokemon, with Nihilego covering Mega Blastoise's Grass-type weakness in return. Since Nihilego struggles against Steel-type Pokemon like Mega Metagross, Magearna, and Mega Mawile, Ground-type Pokemon like Zygarde can be used as teammates; Nihilego can also cover Zygarde's Ice-type weakness. Nihilego can handle most Fire- and Flying-type Pokemon, so Pokemon like Mega Heracross can be used to lure in these Pokemon, with Mega Heracross also defeating Pokemon such as Mega Gyarados, Donphan, Golem, and Jumpluff for Nihilego. Some physically bulky Pokemon like Mega Aggron and Mega Slowbro can be used to help accommodate for Nihilego's poor physical bulk, and Nihilego can support them by being a special tank in return.

Moves Nihilego is used primarily for its Speed and typing. Therefore, it is mandatory to run Sludge Bomb due to the rising popularity of Fairy-type Pokemon. Sludge Bomb almost always OHKOes most of the popular guardian deities, after which Nihilego gets a boost from its ability to make sure its next attack hits even harder. Pokemon like Gyarados and Arcanine are common staples in many teams, and the former can even OHKO Nihilego if it's not running a Focus Sash. Power Gem ensures Nihilego KOes them with ease while also hurting Celesteela for neutral damage. Hidden Power Ice allows Nihilego to OHKO most Garchomp and helps deal with the occasional Ground-type Pokemon once boosted and is often a staple on most Nihilego. Grass Knot can be used in this slot to deal huge amounts of damage to Gastrodon and Milotic, 2HKOing the latter. Protect is necessary in VGC due to Nihilego's frailty, as it helps scout incoming attacks and stall out Trick Room. Set Details Focus Sash is the most used item on Nihilego, as it helps compensate for Nihilego's lack of physical bulk. Prolonged field presence with Beast Boost makes Nihilego much more threatening than it already is. Taking enough Special Attack EVs is another way to take advantage of Beast Boost, to ensure Nihilego's Speed is boosted instead. This increases Nihilego's Speed so that it can outspeed even Choice Scarf Pokemon. Life Orb is often used to secure the OHKO on Gyarados and Arcanine. However, this makes Nihilego much more susceptible to Earthquake and Heavy Slam. 252 Speed EVs ensure Nihilego outspeeds maximum speed Garchomp, which is one of the faster Pokemon in the format. This also helps Nihilego outspeed threats like Tapu Lele and Salamence. 252 Special Attack EVs are run to maximize Nihilego's damage output. The EVs are plain and simple, as Nihilego is purely an offensive sweeper. Usage Tips As one of the frailest Pokemon in the format, Nihilego is almost always equipped with Focus Sash. It is advisable to switch into incoming special attacks to take advantage of Nihilego's special bulk while safely getting it onto the field. As a Focus Sash user, Nihilego can also pressure your opponent as a lead, as it can easily take out a lot of threats. You have to be careful when using Sludge Bomb, as a switch into a Steel-type will render it useless, and moreover, put Nihilego at risk. Terrains are useful when using Nihilego, as Tapu Lele's Psychic fails to OHKO it when it is used under a different terrain. Similarly, Grassy Terrain weakens Earthquakes from Garchomp and Krookodile, and when paired with Intimidate or burn, it greatly improves Nihilego's longevity to the point that you don't need to rely on Focus Sash. Nihilego is an easy pick against most teams due to its powerful movepool and offensive capabilities. Nihilego is best used against Pokemon it can either OHKO or wall using its Special Defense. As such, it shouldn't be kept on the field against Pokemon that can OHKO it like Kartana and Celesteela. Team Options Nihilego suffers from a variety of weaknesses due to its typing. As Ground-types are one of the most common types in VGC, Wide Guard users like Celesteela make great partners to Nihilego, helping it overcome Earthquakes. Grassy Terrain helps further mitigate Nihilego's Ground weakness to an extent. As such, Tapu Bulu works well with Nihilego, as the latter can easily OHKO Fire-types that threat Tapu Bulu, while the guardian deity can take out Ground- and Water-type Pokemon with ease. Sandstorm setters like Gigalith help boost Nihilego's Special Defense even further, helping it tank Psychics from Tapu Lele in Psychic Terrain. Fire-type Pokemon like Alolan Marowak and Arcanine are useful in order to take out opposing Steel-types that usually wall Nihilego, while Taunt users help shut down any Trick Room attempts. Intimidate users like Arcanine and Gyarados help soften up physical attacks to prolong Nihilego's field presence.

Moves Sludge Wave is Nihilego's strongest attack and should be used liberally to revenge kill threats. Hidden Power Ice is excellent coverage for hitting Ground- and Dragon- types, and it is necessary to check threats such as Choice Scarf Landorus-T. Thunderbolt hits Water- and Steel-types resistant to Nihilego's other attacks such as Celesteela and Skarmory. Power Gem is a reliable Rock-type STAB move that hits targets resistant to Sludge Wave. Toxic Spikes can be used over Power Gem to help whittle down bulkier teams with chip damage, especially Normal and Water. Set Details Nihilego uses maximum Speed investment with a Timid nature and a Choice Scarf to outrun threats such as Choice Scarf Tapu Bulu and Choice Scarf Landorus-T. The remaining EVs are placed into Special Attack to make Nihilego as strong as possible. Beast Boost is Nihilego's only ability, boosting its Special Attack whenever it KOes a foe. Combined with Choice Scarf, this gives Nihilego the potential to clean late-game against types such as Water and Dragon. Usage Tips Nihilego should be used to check threats to Rock such as Garchomp and Choice Scarf Tapu Bulu, as well as other offensive Pokemon. Since Nihilego is easily walled by most defensive Pokemon when locked into an attack, be aggressive with double switches to bring teammates in against walls. You can also take advantage of forced switches as an opportunity to set Toxic Spikes. This should be prioritized against bulkier teams like Normal, where the extra chip damage is important for wearing down Chansey and Porygon2. You may also want to preserve Nihilego as a check to special attackers such as Tapu Koko and Choice Scarf Greninja with its tremendous special bulk. You should take care to keep Nihilego healthy in matchups where it is needed to absorb Toxic Spikes, such as against Water or Poison teams. Keep an eye on opportunities late-game to clean weakened teams using Beast Boost's Special Attack boosts. Team Options Shuckle offers valuable entry hazard support with Stealth Rock, which can whittle down Nihilego's checks so it can clean late-game, and Sticky Web, which lets Nihilego outrun faster revenge killers like Choice Scarf Keldeo and Choice Scarf Greninja. With Nihilego serving as Rock's revenge killer, Terrakion can serve as the team's wallbreaker or sweeper with a Choice Band or Swords Dance set. Tyranitar can break special walls such as Alolan Muk and Chansey that Nihilego cannot touch and Pursuit trap Nihilego's Psychic-type checks such as Latios. Mega Diancie serves as a dangerous mixed attacker that supports Nihilego in the Dark, Dragon, and Fighting matchups. Alolan Golem and Rhyperior can be used to check Mega Scizor and put pressure on Steel-type teams that Nihilego cannot threaten. Alolan Golem can also trap Steel-types such as Ferrothorn and Celesteela. Cradily can help cement the Water matchup with its immunity to Water-type moves and appreciates Nihilego's Toxic Spikes to whittle down opposing teams.

Moves Power Gem allows Nihilego to heavily threaten Bug-, Fire-, Flying-, and Ice-types such as Volcarona, Zapdos, and Kyurem-B. Thunderbolt is another coverage move that targets Water-types such as Keldeo and Toxapex, while also targeting Flying-types such as Celesteela that take neutral damage from Power Gem and Hidden Power Ice. Hidden Power Ice is used as coverage against Dragon- and Ground-types such as Garchomp, Gliscor, and Landorus. Stealth Rock can be compressed onto Nihilego to allow its teammate in Nidoking to utilize an extra coverage move such as Thunderbolt. Sludge Wave is used to check Fairy-types such as Clefable and Tapu Koko, and also comes with the benefit of potentially poisoning the foe. Set Details Maximum Speed Investment with a Timid nature and a Choice Scarf makes Nihilego as fast as possible. Maximum Special Attack investment maximizes Nihilego's power, which is important when considering that Beast Boost amplifies its Special Attack every time it nets a KO. Usage Tips This set makes Nihilego a potent revenge killer, so try to bring it in against weakened foes. With Beast Boost amplifying its Special Attack, it becomes harder to switch into defensively upon netting. Nihilego can also act as a late-game sweeper if the foes have been sufficiently weakened. Nihilego can be used to deter certain setup sweepers such as Mega Gallade and Volcarona by switching into them on predicted setup moves. However, Nihilego shouldn't do this frivolously, and it should never be immediately switched into physical moves, as its low physical bulk leaves it to be KOed by foes on the spot. Nihilego should avoid paralysis, as a halved Speed stat will prevent it from performing its roles as a revenge killer and late-game sweeper. It's important to know when to utilize Stealth Rock. Nihilego should attempt to get Stealth Rock up against foes that it can threaten to KO, such as Kyurem-B and Mega Aerodactyl, as it forces them out. However, Nihilego is forced to immediately switch out after setting it up, as being locked into Stealth Rock renders Nihilego useless and can allow foes such as Jirachi, Kommo-o, and Mega Latias to set up and potentially sweep. Nihilego is also critical in the fight against Flying teams; while there are a few Flying-types that can switch into its attacks, none of them can revenge kill it when it's equipped with its Choice Scarf. Team Options Mega Venusaur is a key teammate for Nihilego, as its typing provides a useful Ground-type neutrality and Water-type resistance for Pokemon that Nihilego struggles against. Additionally, Mega Venusaur can also utilize Leech Seed against utility foes such as Chansey and switch into Nihilego to provide it with passive recovery. Toxapex pairs up nicely with Nihilego, as its incredible defenses, typing, and recovery are vital against many foes such as Greninja and Mega Scizor. Additionally, Nihilego benefits from Toxapex, as it can use Scald to burn physical attackers looking to capitalize on Nihilego's poor physical bulk. Nidoking has a strong combination of Sheer Force and a Life Orb that can sufficiently threaten foes Nihilego wouldn't be able to, such as Celesteela and Ferrothorn. Crobat provides solid utility for Nihilego by utilizing Defog to remove entry hazards and Taunt to prevent recovery from foes such as Porygon2 and Hippowdon. Thanks to its Flying typing, Crobat can circumvent Nihilego's weakness to Ground-type moves by acting as a Ground-immune Pokemon. Alolan Muk assists Nihilego as a Psychic-immune Pokemon, being able to threaten foes such as Latios and Mega Latias by Pursuit trapping them. Additionally, its Knock Off is beneficial for removing Eviolite from Chansey and Porygon2, enabling Nihilego to threaten these foes more effectively. SubToxic Salazzle also benefits Nihilego, as its ability in Corrosion means that it can Poison problematic Poison- and Steel-types such as Toxapex and Celesteela, foes that Nihilego cannot effectively KO unless they're relatively weakened.

Moves Sludge Wave is Nihilego's Poison-type STAB move and strongest attack, useful for guaranteeing a 2HKO on Mega Venusaur. Hidden Power Ice is necessary coverage for hitting Ground-types such as Garchomp and Landorus. Thunderbolt helps Nihilego threaten Water-types such as Suicune and Toxapex, as well as Steel-types that resist its other moves. Grass Knot lets Nihilego break through heavy Ground-types such as Swampert, Hippowdon, and Seismitoad that would otherwise check it. Power Gem is an option over Grass Knot as a strong Rock-type STAB move, and it is particularly useful against Flying and Bug teams. Set Details Maximum Speed investment with a Timid nature lets Nihilego outrun threats such as Garchomp and Landorus. Maximum Special Attack investment with a Life Orb gives Nihilego the power it needs to make use of its diverse coverage and break walls such as Mega Venusaur. Beast Boost is Nihilego's only ability and can let it clean through weakened teams late-game with Special Attack boosts. Usage Tips Nihilego should primarily be used as a wallbreaker and revenge killer, sent in to manage troublesome defensive Pokemon such as Skarmory, Toxapex, and Hippowdon. Take advantage of Nihilego's high Special Defense to switch into weak special attacks and position it against walls it can break such as Mega Venusaur or and Zapdos. Nihilego's Poison typing can be used to tank Grass- and Fighting-type attacks, as well as to absorb Toxic and Toxic Spikes for the team. Nihilego can even stomach Scald from bulky Water-types like Toxapex and Suicune. Keep Nihilego's Special Attack boosts in mind as well, as a single boost can be enough to keep one of its usual checks, such as a healthy Hippowdon, from handling it. However, Nihilego can also be preserved as a check for special attackers such as Alolan Raichu and Greninja, especially when supported with sand. Team Options Shuckle offers valuable entry hazard support with Sticky Web, which lets Nihilego outspeed a much broader range of offensive threats such as Keldeo, Greninja, and Tapu Koko. Terrakion serves as an excellent revenge killer with Choice Scarf to complement Nihilego's wallbreaking, and it helps in the Steel and Normal matchups that Nihilego is largely useless in. Tyranitar works as a fantastic physical wallbreaker to punch through special walls that Nihilego cannot touch such as Chansey and Mew, and it can Pursuit trap the Psychic- and Ghost-types that threaten Nihilego. Mega Diancie is an excellent mixed attacker that puts pressure in the Dark, Dragon, and Fighting matchups where Nihilego can struggle. Alolan Golem and Rhyperior serve as effective checks to Mega Scizor, which otherwise sets up freely on Nihilego. Alolan Golem can also trap other pesky Steel-types that wall Nihilego such as Excadrill, Ferrothorn, and Celesteela. Cradily can help support Nihilego in the Water matchup with its immunity to Water-type moves and appreciates Nihilego's capacity to absorb Toxic Spikes.

Moves Sludge Bomb and Power Gem provide valuable Poison- and Rock-type coverage , allowing Nihilego to hit a plethora of metagame threats like Tapu Fini, Zapdos, and Incineroar super effectively. Stealth Rock chips many of Nihilego's targets, such as Tapu Lele and Volcanion, into OHKO range of its STAB moves, while Hidden Power Ice hits both Landorus-T and Zygarde, which otherwise wall Nihilego. Protect is useful for stalling out turns while Nihilego's ally helps get rid of opposing Steel-types or scouting out potential sets the foe is running. Set Details Maximum Special Attack and Speed investment ensures that Nihilego outspeeds both Mega Charizard Y and Kyurem-B while being able to hit as hard as possible. Rockium Z provides the extra boost needed to OHKO bulkier targets such as Incineroar while acting as a one-time nuke to help Nihilego get going with Beast Boost. Focus Sash is also an alternative if the team has another Z-Move user, as it guarantees that Nihilego is able to get off a few attacks or set up Stealth Rock even in the presence of its checks. Usage Tips Nihilego best functions as an offensive Stealth Rock setter that can blanket check a range of prominent threats thanks to its unique offensive typing. However, its Special Attack may be lacking at times and miss important OHKOs; thus, it is beneficial to try to set up Stealth Rock early to chip its targets into KO range of its attacks. If Nihilego finds itself lacking an opportunity to do so, it can choose to utilize its Z-Move instead to secure the KO. It's also a good idea to try to bring Nihilego onto the field with the help of slow pivots, such as Incineroar, to extend its longevity so it is able to fully utilize its wallbreaking potential. Alternatively, it is also fine to hard switch Nihilego into Fire-types or other Pokemon that are unable to retaliate against it, such as Volcarona and unboosted Tapu Fini. Finally, it is advisable for Nihilego to always switch out when an opposing Steel-type hits the field, since Nihilego cannot do much against them. Team Options Mega Charizard Y teams in particular appreciate Nihilego's presence, since the two have great offensive synergy together, with Nihilego being able to remove Fire-types such as Incineroar and Volcanion that otherwise wall Charizard while Charizard removes Steel-types such as Mega Metagross and Kartana. Steel-type checks such as Incineroar, Landorus-T, and Volcanion are absolutely mandatory for teams featuring Nihilego, as it will find itself struggling to deal any damage at all against such foes. Nihilego values teammates such as Kartana and Tapu Fini, as they are able to check Ground-types such as Mega Swampert and Gastrodon, which Nihilego struggles against. Dragon-types such as Kommo-o and Kyurem-B benefit from Nihilego's ability to threaten and get rid of the Island Guardians along with other Fairy-types, allowing them to plow through teams with their respective STAB attacks. Common Intimidate users such as Landorus-T and Incineroar also work well with Nihilego, as they help make up for Nihilego's poor physical bulk through constant Intimidate shuffling. Lastly, Nihilego benefits tremendously from allies like Incineroar and Mega Metagross that are able to force out specially defensive Pokemon such as Chansey and Amoonguss.

Choice Scarf lets Nihilego revenge kill important, boosted threats such as Mega Charizard X and Volcarona, and it also makes Nihilego a dangerous late game cleaner. Power Gem is Nihilego's STAB with the least resistances, making it a reliable choice. Sludge Wave does a great job of smashing through Fairy-types, though note the ever present Steel-type immunity to it. Hidden Power Ice deals massive damage to Garchomp. While Nihilego is unlikely to sweep while locked into Hidden Power Ice, revenge killing Garchomp is too good to give up. Thunderbolt lets Nihilego deal decent damage to Celesteela and Suicune, though it's unlikely to beat healthy variants one-on-one. Grass Knot hits Mamoswine hard, giving Nihileglo a new target to revenge kill once weakened. Psychic lets Nihilego deal more damage to Mega Gengar and Blaziken than any other move. Leave this Nihilego for late game or revenge killing only, since it's very easy to set up on Nihilego if its locked into the wrong move. Teams with Choice Scarf Nihilego will want checks for Steel-types such as Mega Mawile, since Nihilego can't possibly cover them all with one moveset.

Power Gem is an excellent STAB, letting Nihilego take out important threats such as Mega Charizard Y, Thundurus-T, and Volcarona. Sludge Wave is Nihilego's strongest STAB attack, making it a perfect revenge killer for Fairy-types. Hidden Power Ice lets Nihilego fully take advantage of its extra speed point over Garchomp, making it a potential revenge killer of non Choice Scarf carrying variants. Nihilego is a great offensive setter of Stealth Rock due to the switches it forces out against many offensive Pokemon. If Stealth Rock isn't important, extra coverage can go a long way towards patching up some of Nihilego's common problems. Thunderbolt does decent damage to Celesteela and Suicune, while Grass Knot deals massive damage to Mamoswine. Psychic can be used to hit Mega Gengar much harder than usual. Although unusual, running Hidden Power Fire can be a reasonable option to deal massive damage to Ferrothorn and Mega Scizor switch-ins. Just be warned, this makes Garchomp a hard counter to Nihilego, with Dazzling Gleam becoming the only way Nihilego can deal good damage to it. Focus Sash is usually the best item for Nihilego to get around its extreme weakness to physical attacks, letting it revenge kill threats it normally couldn't such as boosted Mega Charizard X. If Focus Sash is already used up, Life Orb can make an acceptable alternative for the power boost it gives Nihilego, though it does make it harder to play due to its physical frailness. Maximum Special Attack is important for ensuring that Beast Boost gives Nihilego a Special Attack boost, making it capable of sweeping teams. Maximum Speed is also needed to outspeed the common Garchomp. Any team with Nihilego will want some sort of Ground-type switch in, since even Special Ground-type attacks deal massive damage to Nihilego. Pokemon that take physical hits well are also much appreciated. If the plan is to make Nihilego a win condition, taking out Steel-types is very important, since these are the Pokemon that wall Nihilego the most.