Quaquaval

Quaquaval is one of the Paldean starters, and it's a Pokemon with a lot of potential. Among the current Water Type starters, Quaquaval has the highest base Attack stat and is set to eventually sit right around Greninja once it gets Hydro Cannon, held back only by the sheer power of Greninja's unique Fast Move. But speaking of unique moves, Quaquaval also has its own Signature Move by the name of Aqua Step in the main series, meaning it has the potential to be the single strongest non-Shadow/Mega Water Type starter in the game someday.

That said, it's probably best to wait on this Pokemon until it learns Hydro Cannon, as it's pretty mediocre currently.

Best PvE Offensive Moveset

• While it waits for Hydro Cannon, Quaquaval is best utilizing Water Gun and Liquidation
• Aqua Jet is basically Liquidation but worse
• Wing Attack and Aerial Ace can work if you're desperate for Flying coverage, but still isn't great.
• Close Combat is worthless despite Quaquaval's Fighting sub-typing

Best PvE Defensive Moveset

• Wing Attack is generally the superior defensive option, as it has the highest base power, though Water Gun is still okay depending on the set.
• Liquidation is the best defensive option, followed by Aerial Ace. Remember to mis-match Fast and Charged Moves for maximum coverage.
• Aqua Jet and Close Combat are objectively inferior on defense.

Though it lacks STAB, Wing Attack is preferred over Water Gun for its coverage and high energy generation, and it helps set Quaquaval apart from other Water-type Pokemon.

Liquidation is a solid Water Charged Attack choice thanks to its moderately low cost, decent DPE, and 30% Defense debuff chance. Close Combat is an amazing move; it benefits from STAB and has both amazing DPE and low cost, but its harsh self-debuff requires Quaquaval to use it with care. Aerial Ace is Quaquaval's cheapest attack and can viably fit into its moveset, but its DPE is very lacking.