Sneasler
PvE Analysis
Sneasler sports a very respectable 259 ATK stat, but is cursed with a suboptimal moveset. This doesn't mean Snealser is completely useless; it can still be chosen as a Fighting-type attacker if stronger Pokemon aren't available, or for challenges involving unique Pokemon or high score runs. But don't feel bad about putting Sneasler on the bench if you already have your team of Lucarios, Conkeldurrs, and Machamps.
Best PvE Offensive Moveset
Rock Smash + Close Combat | Best |
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- Rock Smash pairs well with Close Combat to fulfill a Fighting-type role.
- Poison Jab is a good Poison-type move with STAB, but lacks synergy with the available Charge Moves.
- X-Scissor or Aerial Ace could be chosen to attack Grass-types, but other Pokemon are better for this.
Best PvE Defensive Moveset
Rock Smash or Poison Jab | Best |
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- Rock Smash is generally the stronger option for defense with its respectable base power and STAB.
- Poison Jab is a decent STAB alternative.
- Shadow Claw has a very high chance to not be resisted by attackers, but is weaker.
- Aerial Ace or X-Scissor are the way to go for a Charged Move.
PvP Analysis
Poison Jab or Shadow Claw + Close Combat and X-Scissor or Aerial Ace |
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Poison Jab benefits from STAB to deal respectable damage, but its coverage is rather limited. Shadow Claw can be chosen for its typing which is largely unresisted by most Pokemon.
Close Combat is always recommended for its powerful STAB coverage, despite the harsh self-debuff. X-Scissor costs the least amount of energy in the game, allowing it to be spammed frequently and bait shields. Aerial Ace is not recommended due to its unimpressive stats, unless Flying-type coverage is needed.
Great League | / 5 |
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Sneasler's high ATK stat results in poor bulk for Great League. Relatively fast access to Close Combat lets Sneasler threaten OHKOs against various Pokemon in the meta, and not just those weak to Fighting-type damage. Successful baits X-Scissor will significantly improve Sneasler's matchups, but this can lead to inconsistent results. If you like the high risk and high reward style, Sneasler might be for you. | |
Ultra League | / 5 |
Much of Sneasler's performance in Ultra League will come down to whether it can consistently bait shields with X-Scissor, which seems to be the common theme. Sneasler is the faster and more polarizing version of Perrserker, with the faster X-Scissor shield bait while also being more reliant on it. Despite having a major and consistent advantage against Trevenant, Sneasler's lack of bulk is notable enough to cause it to lose if it gets hit by one Shadow Ball. | |
Master League | / 5 |
Without a CP cap restriction, Sneasler shines best in Master League with its high ATK stat. Poison Jab is mandatory in order to overcome Togekiss (and other Fairy Pokemon), but Shadow Claw tends to be better against the overall meta. It should be noted that Sneasler should avoid anything that flies, for its obvious coverage vulnerability. |