Moves
Return is a powerful STAB move that can hit especially hard after an Attack boost from Curse. Body Slam is an alternative that carries a paralysis chance. However, even after paralysis, any Pokemon of 16 Speed or faster still outspeeds Munchlax, and the paralysis can hurt Munchlax when facing Timburr. Curse is a boosting move that lets Munchlax patch up its poor Defense and boost its Attack as it recovers with Rest. Earthquake is an alternative that hits the Rock- and Steel-types that Munchlax often brings in. Whirlwind is a possibility in this slot as well, as it keeps Munchlax from being set up on and can wear down opposing teams by inflicting them with entry hazard damage. Without Earthquake in the second slot, however, Munchlax is stopped completely by most Rock-, Ghost-, and Steel-type Pokemon. Rest gives Munchlax a method of recovery that isn't stopped by Knock Off, while Sleep Talk allows Munchlax to move while asleep. Sleep Talk has the added benefit of allowing Munchlax to come in on sleep inducers, including Foongus, without fear.
Set Details
Thick Fat allows Munchlax to check Fire- and Ice-type Pokemon even better, including Ponyta and Larvesta. With 236 Special Defense EVs, Munchlax maximizes its already great Special Defense. 236 Attack EVs boost Munchlax's power so that it can hit as hard as possible while taking hits. The remaining EVs go into Defense, an investment that, coupled with an Impish nature, allows Munchlax to hit Eviolite numbers. Eviolite is the item of choice on this set, as it boosts Munchlax's longevity.
Usage Tips
Munchlax is a terrific counter to most special attackers and should be switched into them liberally. After being switched in, Munchlax can fire off its attacks or set up with Curse. This Munchlax set can also be used as a status absorber. However, be cautious when letting Munchlax take a status move or get worn down, as using Rest to restore health or cure status conditions forces Munchlax to rely on Sleep Talk to select its move for two turns, potentially becoming setup bait. Munchlax becomes much less bulky, especially physically, after being hit with Knock Off, so be cautious of special attackers that can use Knock Off such as Cottonee and Abra.
Team Options
This Munchlax set is walled especially well by Ghost-type Pokemon such as Gastly, so a Pursuit user such as Alolan Grimer or Pawniard makes a good partner. Defensively, Munchlax forms very good defensive cores with Pokemon that resist Fighting, including Spritzee, Snubbull, and Mareanie. Pokemon that can take Knock Off also make good partners, especially Fighting-type Pokemon such as Mienfoo, Timburr, and Croagunk. Hazard removal is also important, as RestTalk Pokemon tend to get worn down quickly. Staryu and Drilbur can use Rapid Spin and appreciate Munchlax taking on Electric- and Ice-types, respectively, and Vullaby can use Defog and appreciates Munchlax taking on both. Entry hazard support should be provided if Munchlax is running Whirlwind to wear down teams more effectively, with the likes of Onix and Dwebble providing this support well.