Eszett
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COMPLETED UP TO ALL KANTO POKEMON, MORE UPDATES TO FOLLOW
Firstly, this strategy was compiled in regard to Latios's potential attack changes - the one in this post - and under his commissioning as well. For the most part, I will be using his list as it stands, but discussing the potential of Earthquake and Rock Slide as either physical or special moves - these ever-useful moves seem to have the most debate concerning which way they will go, so I have taken the liberty to discuss the speculation as if they were either physical or special.
Venusaur:
While in the RSE environment this was the best of the Kanto starters, it now only improves as both Razor Leaf and Sludge Bomb can run off its esteemed Special Attack. It can cover the Fire types better should Earthquake become a special attack, and should that happen it gains the added benefit of being able to defend against the maneuver better with its higher Special Defense.
Charizard:
This Pokemon will become ever the more useful as Fire Punch and Dragon Claw become attack-based maneuvers. Ignoring any Pokemon with Flash Fire, this combination of attacks has nothing that can totally resist it, not even any hypothetical typing. Together with the STAB on Aerial Ace and the attack boost thanks to Belly Drum, Charizard stands to become a complete beast in the upcoming game.
Blastoise:
From the looks of it, this Pokemon is slated to stay more-or-less the same, but might experience a slight fall on account of needing to defend against both physical and special attacks - a dilemma that will plague many Water types in these new games. Even so, both of Surf and Ice Beam remain special attacks, and if Earthquake ends up becoming a special maneuver, it can utilise this to great effect to fend off Electric types.
Butterfree:
Definitely slated to improve from what we assume and know. Psychic remains a special attack while it gains STAB on the special attack of Silver Wind, and should Hidden Power become special, it could even gain STAB from its Flying side using its Special Attack. It still has its repertoire of powders backed by Compoundeyes for versatility, allowing it to assume a role as a fairly competent special sweeper and a utility Pokemon. Watch out for physical sweepers with any of the punches, though. Shadow Ball also becomes a viable option.
Beedrill:
Loses Sludge Bomb as an offensive attack, but keeps Twineedle. With it, Brick Break, and Swords Dance in tow, it can still act as a powerful physical sweeper, though the loss of power from not having Sludge Bomb hampers it as well as its decline in Speed. Its frail defense serves to underpower it further as more physical sweepers take up the elemental punches in their movesets.
Pidgeot:
Does not change too much - its movepool is still regrettable so it can't do much, plus being one of the few Pokemon with a chance of using Hyper Beam effectively in RSE, it cannot pack that punch in those situations - but can use Steel Wing and its STAB Return and Aerial Ace just as well as before. It could lose its Hidden Power, but Featherdance scores it a few points by allowing it to soften the blow from Thunderpunch and Ice Punch now.
Raticate:
Bite and Pursuit serve to provide some coverage for the loss of Shadow Ball, its variety of Normal moves is still usable, and Flame Wheel makes an entrance as a physical attack. While it does get a few perks while keeping such moves as Reversal, it sees little improvement from its newfound abilities due to the tactics being underpowered and not providing enough support against its crippling Fighting weakness.
Fearow:
This physical sweeper could stand to lose the critical Hidden Power from its moveset, forcing it to rely on the less-than-stellar Steel Wing to cover any Rock types it might come across. While not much, this hinders it a fair bit even with its Choice Band and will likely see a fall in performance with these upcoming games.
Arbok:
Boy, does this guy lose out. Sludge Bomb no longer works off of attack, and both Earthquake and Rock Slide have the potential to become special attacks as well. There could very well be nothing left for this bugger besides Intimidiate and Glare unless some new move comes along for it. It's in Gamefreak court to fix up Pokemon such as this: we shall see if they do.
Pikachu:
No, Pikachu will still not be worth it. Even Scratch demolishes it. Don't bother.
Raichu:
Will get a slight benefit like every Electric in the game if Earthquake becomes a special move, but overall it will still be pretty much the same with its Thunderbolt and Surf pairing. Volt Tackle and Focus Punch present an interesting new take on the giant electric rodent's moveset if you're feeling a bit risky, though you lose the coverage of a Water move unless you're up for spending some more EVs on Special Attack.
Sandslash:
Like just about every other Ground type in the game, this Pokemon will surely be broken if Earthquake and Rock Slide end up becoming special attacks. If they do not as sensibility would dictate, our lovable pangolin will only stand to improve as Ice Punch and Fire Punch no longer will be trampling over its terrible Special Defense, allowing it ample time to perform its act and serve as a wall against physical attacks.
Nidoqueen:
While it never got much of anything anyways, this Pokemon will be left out in the cold considering that Sludge Bomb is likely to become a special attack. Should Earthquake end up taking that route as well, it will essentially be left with nothing with which to attack as it becomes relegated to a second-class defender with some special attacks on it. Not a good move for the empress.
Nidoking:
Facing a similar dilemma, he had better hope that Earthquake and Rock Slide not become special lest he need to rely on his average Special Attack to pull him through. Yet, by the same virtue, it will still have Megahorn as a physical attack, and while not much, Earthquake and Psychic would require it to focus on its Special Defense instead of doing a rather tricky and hindering EV split, which applies for many of the Poisons in the game. Watch out for the elemental punches, though.
Clefable:
Hooray for STAB Special Hyper Beam! But seriously, it doesn't change all too much. It still has it massive array of special moves to choose from with an added Shadow Ball, it still gets Follow Me, it's still a competent special defender in UU and 2v2, in general it won't be seeing any threats that beset it specifically and no other Pokemon. Stay wary of the elemental punches harping on its Defense.
Ninetales:
Doesn't lose much - but it never had much anyways. Unfortunately, it has little to gain at the same time. Flamethrower and Flash Fire still only go so far to prevent the onslaught of the enemy forces, though if Earthquake and Rock Slide become special attacks it will have a field day with its newfound ability to block them with its respectable Special Defense.
Wigglytuff:
Much the same case as Clefable, though its chubbier cousin still has the upper hand as it had before the new game mechanic was added to the system. It can still pull off the same act, but it doesn't get Follow Me and its offenses and defenses don't warrant it as much freedom and power in exercising those abilities. Not to mention it's also incredibly slow. Forego as usual.
Vileplume:
Sees some much-needed improvement in the STAB category with Sludge Bomb becoming a special attack, and together with Razor Leaf it can cover many more bases than before. Together with Synthesis, it will surely see an improvement in its abilities, though it is a bit more prone to seeing more damage from Fire Punches from physical sweepers.
Parasect:
Gets much worse. Still has those crippling quad weaknesses to Fire and Flying, doesn't gain any viable Grass moves for its Attack stat, and now it needs to fend against its weaknesses going against both of its defenses. Not that it was good to begin with, but now it has almost no chance for survival except in an NU environment...if even that.
Venomoth:
Sees both Silver Wind and Sludge Bomb working off its Special Attack. Together with Psychic and the several powders granted to it, not to mention a very good ability in Shield Dust, the only thing holding it back now are its average stats. Nevertheless, it sees a marked improvement in comparison to it spectacular failure in RSE.
Dugtrio:
Better hope for Rock Slide and Earthquake to stay physical moves just like every other Ground type in the game. Potentially loses HP Bug as an attack and never was really able to to defend attacks in the first place, so should Earthquake and Rock Slide stay physical attacks its performance should be more or less the same in the upcoming games.
Persian:
Loses Shadow Ball as a physical attack, so its best hope is most likely to become a second-rate mixed sweeper with Thunderbolt, Shadow Ball, Return, and Aerial Ace...or something like that. Needless to say, however, it will see a marked loss in performance and will not be worth raising up just as how it was in RSE.
Golduck:
Has some potential to take on a physical sweeping set with Ice Punch, Waterfall, and Cross Chop, or, if you want to keep the focus on its special stats, Surf, Ice Beam, and Psychic along with Calm Mind work just as well. Doesn't change too much, but watch out for physical Grass and Electric moves such as Petal Dance and Thunderpunch. Should still be a strong UU option at the very least.
Primeape:
Gets the punches to accentuate its ho-hum movepool. With them, it can pull a pseudo-Boltbeam combo combined with a STAB Brick Break as well. Will surely see improvement in this generation even if it does lose Rock Slide as a physical attack on account of these punches, and it can still Bulk Up just the same. Be on the lookout for the fastest Fighting type in the game to get an edge on more Pokemon than before.
Arcanine:
Crunch now acts as a physical attack, adding some much-needed diversity on that front. Keeps the ever-useful Extremespeed and gains STAB on the Attack side through the use of Flame Wheel, rendering it a much more viable option in the new generation. Howl serves as always to accentuate it hearty Attack stat. Surely to become the staple that its stats would dictate it be.
Poliwrath:
Waterfall become physical Water STAB, it still gets to use Brick Break, and Ice Punch makes an entrance as a physical Ice move, allowing it to use its types better to its advantage. Bulk Up or Hypnosis provide for some support moves on the moveset, and it can pose a threat to Poison and fellow Fighters with Psychic as a special accessory move if anyone cares. Should see improvement, but might be outclassed by other Fighters.
Alakazam:
And golly, is it taken down a peg. Loses all three elemental punches, gaining only Shadow Ball in return. Cannot really do as much damage to threats as it could, but becomes a viable slayer of fellow Psychics, as useful as that can possibly be, and threatens Ghosts that aren't Gengar a little bit more. On the bright side, it could defend against Earthquake better should it become special given its access to Calm Mind.
Machamp:
Awesome attack and access to the elemental punches equates to success for this formerly overshadowed Fighting type. Could lose Rock Slide, but won't be needing it considering its ability to use Ice Punch and Thunderpunch effectively now. Still gets to keep Brick Break and has ample Defenses and HP to take on all comers. It remains a slow Pokemon, but nevertheless it is bound to see improvement in this generation.
Victreebel:
Loses its physical STAB on Sludge Bomb, needing to rely on its Special Attack for both its best Grass and Poison moves - this lets it use Hidden Power more effectively and its Special Attack is still a very strong 100, but its Sludge Bomb loses its physical punch and is now more likely to see physical walling than before. It's still as defenseless as before, but ignoring that, it loses some considerable punch when it comes to its attacking.
Tentacruel:
By that same virtue, Tentacruel gets a marked improvement as Sludge Bomb now runs off its superior Special Attack. Should Earthquake see a switch, it will be much more able to defend against it with its very strong Special Defense as well. Thunderpunch presents problems, but overall it can still hold its ground with two STAB moves as well as Ice Beam, indicating that it will see some significant improvement in this upcoming game.
Golem:
It should sure as hell hope that it doesn't lose its viable STAB attacks to the special side, since that would only leave it Fire Punch and a bunch of Fighting moves with which to attack - oh, and Rollout, but nobody cares about Rollout. Can't Explode as well anymore either, but Fire Punch won't force a split in its EVs to Special Attack for Fire Blast. It can now withstand Ice Punch and the physical Waterfall much better - definitely should get better.
Rapidash:
Gets to use Flame Wheel as a physical attack now, much to its benefit. Even so, its movepool is still abysmal and, while it gets the ho-hum Double Kick and Iron Tail, it could lose Hidden Power to the special side, so it's still anyone's guess as to how it will fare in the new generation. Flash Fire presents added assistance against physical sweepers using Fire Punch nowadays, though.
Slowbro:
Doesn't lose anything, much to its advantage - in fact it gains Shadow Ball. However, now that the elemental punches are physical attacks, it can better defend against Thunderpunch for all that's worth. It needs to start getting those Calm Minds going should it wish to defend against Shadow Balls vaulted against it, and as always it's still an incredible slowcoach. Not likely to see a demotion, but not as likely to see improvement either.
Magneton:
Still doesn't learn any Steel moves, and if Earthquake becomes special - wait, nevermind, it still faints when the move goes after its Defense. Doesn't really change all that much except the Ground types might not have Earthquake at their disposal. In that case, it is bound to become a more stellar and regular peformer than the situational usage it sees right now.
Farfetch'd:
Its stats still blow and it's not getting any better, get used to it. Only an evolution can really save it.
Dodrio:
Could lose Hidden Power, in which case it loses much of its steam. With it, however, it's still as fierce a Choice Bander as it was in RSE - fast, diverse, immune to Earthquake, and packing a powerful punch. Should see more usage in this generation unless Hidden Power goes to the special side.
Dewgong:
Signal Beam becomes special so now it has more than just STAB special moves at its disposal. Yet, at the same time, its stats are still not well suited to its purposes and Lapras still outclasses it, so it's not likely to seeing any more performance than it is right now. Needless to say, though, it's still a very awesome Ice defender, but it sure can't do much else.
Muk:
Loses Sludge Bomb, Explosion and, along with them, any reason for it to be used. Yet, at the same time, its beefy fist is bound to see some more action with the elemental punches, which when boosted with Curse should make them formidable forces to reckon with. But still, the loss of Sludge Bomb and potentially Hidden Power - which could mean not even HP Poison - pose a serious encumberance to its furthering.
Cloyster:
Gets to use Waterfall as a physical attack now, but still better off using its not-as-great Special Attack since it doesn't learn Ice Punch. To its credit Explosion becomes a special attack, running off of a decent (with an EV investment) Special Attack. Thunderpunch doesn't harp on its pitiful Special Defense, and Ice Beam still destroys Grass types that lack in Special Defense or HP. Should improve, but how much remains to be seen.
Gengar:
And how this thing does get better - both Shadow Ball and Sludge Bomb now run off an incredible 130 Special Attack. Promises to give chills to the Psychics and Ghosts that once could take it down quite diligently, and everything else meets a swift Sludge Bomb. Focus Punch is still insanely powerful so the fact that it runs off its Attack is irrelevant, and it still has diversity in Psychic, Giga Drain, and Hidden Power to compensate for the loss of the punches. Should rise to a beastly status in the upcoming games.
Hypno:
Faces the ever-present Psychic dilemma: it loses all of its punches but gains Shadow Ball, which does little to compensate for the loss. However, now that Shadow Ball - and, to a lesser extent, Signal Beam and Silver Wind - is special, Hypno can finally meet its potential as a special wall. Insomnia is still troublesome for it since it disables Resting, but even so it sees a marked improvement in its abilities.
Kingler:
Crabhammer now serves as some viable physical STAB for this Pokemon long stripped of a usable movepool, but it could lose Hidden Power as a physical sweeping move. Double-Edge and Return nevertheless remain in regard to its physical attack, its Special Defense doesn't get exploited so much by Thunderpunchers, and Swords Dance still stays in its movepool. Improvement or demotion hinges largely on which way Hidden Power swings.
Electrode:
Its movepool still blows, but at least Explosion works off of Special Attack now, Hidden Power is still a decent choice, and Earthquake might now hit its not-as-bad Special Defense. Even so, it will likely be too fast for its own good and not be able to pack enough punch - which, along with its movepool, was the same issue that's plagued it in every generation before this one.
Exeggutor:
Sunnybeaming set is still the most viable option for it as it doesn't lose any of the attacks on it to its lesser Attack. Can better defend against Ice Punch and Crunch, but now Shadow Ball hurts more and Fire Punch still gets a boost from the sun to hurt just the same - but likely not enough for an OHKO. Explosion runs off of Special for those thinking of anything else but Sunnybeaming. Seems to be set to improve, but Gengar and other Psychics might ruin its party.
Marowak:
Can use two of the three elemental punches now from its absolutely incredible Attack stat, but it sure as heck cannot afford in the least to lose Earthquake. By that same virtue, Ice Punch and Waterfall won't be hurting it quite as much. Definitely stands to improve considering everything it has going for it - diversity, a great Attack and Defense, and Swords Dance to boot. Surely worth looking at.
Hitmonlee:
Hopefully will not lose Rock Slide as a physical attacking move. Yet, if it and Earthquake do go to that side, it will be able to defend against them better thanks to its esteemed Special Defense. Should hope not to lose its valuable Hidden Power, though - Ghost covers its grounds very well. It doesn't get a whole lot more, but it sure stands to lose plenty of its maneuvers.
Hitmonchan:
Physical elemental punches help this poor sap out a boatload, and because of them might actually get an edge over its more limber and hard-hitting cousin. The diversity added to its moveset along with Bulk Up and the ever-powerful Sky Uppercut make this Pokemon a very good contender for improvement, and nevertheless its increased Defense should see better usage thanks to the virtues its punches grant it.
Lickitung:
Nope, the thing still isn't any good. Shadow Ball only goes far off of an attacking stat that is but a meager 10 points higher than its physical, and it needs to do a stat split should it want STAB - of course, if you're feeling like a coot you can use Hyper Beam. Don't even bother with it.
Weezing:
Loses some attack power thanks to Sludge Bomb, Shadow Ball, and Explosion going to the special side, but now it doesn't need to split its EVs between its attacking stats. Fire Blast and Thunderbolt accentuate its new Special Attack with diversity, and it still can act as an incredible wall thanks to its Defense blocking out more attacks - just keep an eye out for Shadow Ball, however.
Rhydon:
Gains Crunch to allow it to slay Ghosts better, but needs to keep Earthquake and Rock Slide for its life. Even so, Crunch doesn't really help it too much, but could be useful to take down the threat that Gengar is sure to become. Keep your eye out for its Shadow Ball pulverizing your Special Defense, however - Rhydon always was tricky to use, however, yet still promises to be moderately good.
Tangela:
Still likely to underpeform, but its Defense gives it coverage against Ice Punchers and Fire Punchers unless it's doing a Sunnybeaming set. Hidden Power and Sludge Bomb provide for some non-STAB coverage, though Sunnybeaming with HP Fire or HP Ice looks to be the best set for it. Watch out for Ice Beam and Flamethrower, though, but those moves have always been an issue for it since the Special Split. Gengar gives you troubles as it does nearly everything.
Kangaskhan:
Loses Shadow Ball and possibly Hidden Power, so it might have no worthwhile Ghost coverage whatsoever. It still gets to keep Return and Focus Punch, though, but even so the Subpunching set will be eternally upset by Gengar if it doesn't get any physical Ghost or Dark moves at its disposal. As with a few other Pokemon - especially the Ground types - its status will be very situational depending on which way certain attacks go.
Seaking:
Megahorn and Waterfall make for a more elegant combination, but the thing still yearns to keep Hidden Power for its life. Thunderpunch poses worries for its lackluster Defense, but its good Special Defense still blocks against Shadow Ball and other commonplace attacks, including every other Electric and Grass attack worth using.
Starmie:
Still has a good movepool and doesn't lose any of the attacks that run off of its Special Attack, and was never really a defender anyway so it doesn't lose much in that regard. It doesn't lose any steam for sure, as it can still sweep with Surf/Ice Beam/Thunderbolt/Psychic as well as assume a Spinning role, but it doesn't terribly improve by very much either.
Mr. Mime:
Loses the potential to use any of the punches, forcing it to rely on Hidden Power. Yet, by the virtue, it can defend better against Shadow Ball, although its absolutely pitiful HP will be taking abuse from whatever comes its way as usual. However, it can use Shadow Ball to fend off fellow Psychics and Ghosts now - though, at the same time, Psychic is still better against Gengar on account of its Poisonous side.
Scyther:
Could lose Silver Wind and Hidden Power Bug and, thereby, any physical STAB for its Bug side. It still learns Aerial Ace much to its delight, so its Flying side won't be deprived even if Hidden Power ends up special. Nevertheless, though, its bad movepool just got worse, forcing it further down the tier ladder in this brave new world.
Jynx:
Doesn't lose any of the punches because, unlike most Psychics, it never got them in the first place. Ice Beam and Psychic still provide good coverage, and it gains Shadow Ball to support its lackluster special movepool. Shadow Ball won't be going after its horrendous Defense anymore, and neither will possibly Earthquake and Rock Slide. It seems that it will improve, but it could be outclassed by other Ice and Psychic types.
Electabuzz:
Assuming this brute doesn't evolve, a deprecation of its battle worth seems imminent on account of losing the elemental punches. Needing to rely on a strong Hidden Power now that its major claim to fame - being one of the few Electric types that can learn an Ice move - has effectively been stripped from it, other more powerful Electric types are likely to get an edge on this humanoid tiger as we enter the fourth generation.
Magmar:
It can try a physical sweeper set now with Cross Chop/Brick Break, Fire Punch, and Thunderpunch in tow, or it can use its slightly better Special Attack to launch Flamethrowers and Psychics at its foes. Earthquake and Rock Slide might not be going after its lackluster Defense anymore. Seems pretty set to get better in this generation as it gains some more diversity.
Pinsir:
Had better hope not to lose Earthquake, Rock Slide, and Hidden Power Bug as physical move choices. Besides that, physical sweepers won't be hurting it as much with their Fire Punches thanks to Pinsir's good Defense, so this previously-shafted Pokemon is likely to get better within this generation. However, that depends entirely on whether it can still use its old tricks or not.
Tauros:
Can lose Hidden Power to officially rob it from any diversity. Its movepool is still terrible, which won't prove to be good in any environment, but should it become even worse it might very well not be worth the effort considering other Choice Banders still have wondrous movepools even if Earthquake and Rock Slide go to the special side. Things aren't looking good for Tauros, that is for sure.
Gyarados:
If it loses Hidden Power and Earthquake, it's screwed. Waterfall and Dragon Dance might very well be its only saving graces barring a reform of its stats, considering it now has to face Thunderpunches with its physical Defense. Things seem set for it to become considerably worse than before.
Lapras:
Doesn't lose any moves to the physical side, still has Water Absorb, and ultimately should prove to be a more potent force in the upcoming games thanks to being more able to defend against moves from all over the spectrum with its hearty defenses backed by its massive HP. Might be able to withstand Gengar's thrashing enough to deliver it a Psychic - but watch out for Thunderbolts coming in your direction.
Ditto:
Ditto sucks.
Vaporeon:
Gets more love, but still has to be on the lookout for Thunderpunches. Surf and Ice Beam return on the most versatile Eeveelution, although Bite becomes rather useless now because of it not running off of its healthy Special Attack. Nevertheless, though, it should not find itself needing it in the long run when Surf and Ice Beam cover so much.
Jolteon:
Will get a huge break if Earthquake becomes special as it will be going after its respectable Special Defense. Thunderbolt and Hidden Power Grass/Ice are still viable options for the quilled quadruped, and Substitute and Baton Pass work just as well as ever before. Definitely a choice to consider in the upcoming games as usual.
Flareon:
Shafted big time. Loses Shadow Ball for the weaker Bite, blowing some wind out of the famous Choice Band set. Doesn't get any physical STAB just as before. The only real redeeming factor it gets is that Earthquake and Rock Slide maybe, just maybe might go after its very established Special Defense than its horrid Defense. Yet, all signs point to it getting worse.
Omastar:
Keeps its special STAB in Surf, but it might get some special STAB in Rock Slide - in which case it would be considerably improved. It can block against Thunderpunches now with its sky-high Defense as well as dish out damage with its two or three sweeping moves while still being able to Spin or Rest as support maneuvers. All in all, it seems much improvement in these upcoming games. Watch out for Earthquake and Special Defense, though.
Kabutops:
The same virtue that might assist Omastar would debilitate Kabutops as it loses its Rock-type STAB. Yet, at the same time, it receives physical Water STAB with Waterfall, helping its case a bit. Swords Dance and Endure/Flail are still viable options, and it still gets that awesome protection from Sand Stream to benefit it against Tyranitar. It still depends on some choices Gamefreak makes, but either Omastar or Kabutops will be going big.
Aerodactyl:
Could lose Earthquake, Rock Slide, and Hidden Power Flying, in which case it would make it much, MUCH worse. To its credit, though, it gets an unstabbed Dragon Claw as well as Bite. Iron Tail might become a regrettable staple move on the beast should it lose its three most viable move choices, and Double-Edge has always been a sexy choice for physical sweepers with bad movepools.
Snorlax:
Loses Shadow Ball and could possibly lose Earthquake, but it gains the three elemental punches to support its cause. Fire Punch will do well against the Skarmory that come its way, while Thunderpunch will help against it and the many, many Flying types in the game. Ice Punch could make Snorlax a viable Dragon slayer, provided they don't get to it first with their sky-high Attacks. It could lose a lot with Earthquake, but it is bound to gain more variability with the punches.
Articuno:
Would get considerably better if Rock Slide went after its Special Defense than its not-as-great Defense. Ice Beam and Extrasensory return as usual for special move options, and Hidden Power Flying could very well end up a special attack to support its STAB further. Sees much improvement in the battle field, but how much improvement remains to be seen.
Zapdos:
Regrettably for Zappy, Drill Peck is still a physical move, but Thunderbolt and HP Grass ought to remain special attacks. Its Flying type was never really that important except when it came to Earthquake - it doesn't cover any of its two weaknesses. Still seems to be going strong in this generation and is likely to make a triumphant return as a lead-out on many teams.
Moltres:
Could gain beastly-awesome attacking power with STAB special Hidden Power Flying, though Grass is still a better option for it. Rock Slide pounded its higher physical Defense anyway so if it becomes special it won't matter for Moltres. Extrasensory is, as it has been since XD, a good choice for variety, and Will-O-Wisp is still the grand support move it has always been. Keep your eye out for this flaming buzzard.
Dragonite:
CHOICE BAND DRAGON CLAW OFF OF 134 ATTACK WILL HURT. It's bound to become an absolute beast with a new Choice Band set, Dragon Claw/Hidden Power Flying/Ice Punch/Thunderpunch - or Aerial Ace if HP ends up special. Focus Punch and Fire Punch remain viable options as well for the Choice Band set, further adding to its unpredictability. Could be outclassed by the faster Salamence, but its versatility ought to be remembered.
Mewtwo:
And what a Psychic slayer it becomes now that it has Shadow Ball - with its crushing Psychic, a strong Boltbeam combo, and Shadow Ball, it can cover nine types out of seventeen - most of the others will likely be pounded by a Psychic, only Darks stand a chance against this brute now. Bound to become an absolute god in the upcoming games, though it will still remain an uber to be sure.
Mew:
Sure, it can pull off Mewtwo's act, or it can be cool and try a special set like Psychic/Earthquake/Rock Slide/Ice Beam should that possibilty exist, but versatility aside, it will still be outclassed by Mewtwo, yet it will still be an uber because of that versatility. The only thing this cat embryo will be doing is begging for a borderline tier between OU and Uber.
Firstly, this strategy was compiled in regard to Latios's potential attack changes - the one in this post - and under his commissioning as well. For the most part, I will be using his list as it stands, but discussing the potential of Earthquake and Rock Slide as either physical or special moves - these ever-useful moves seem to have the most debate concerning which way they will go, so I have taken the liberty to discuss the speculation as if they were either physical or special.
Venusaur:
While in the RSE environment this was the best of the Kanto starters, it now only improves as both Razor Leaf and Sludge Bomb can run off its esteemed Special Attack. It can cover the Fire types better should Earthquake become a special attack, and should that happen it gains the added benefit of being able to defend against the maneuver better with its higher Special Defense.
Charizard:
This Pokemon will become ever the more useful as Fire Punch and Dragon Claw become attack-based maneuvers. Ignoring any Pokemon with Flash Fire, this combination of attacks has nothing that can totally resist it, not even any hypothetical typing. Together with the STAB on Aerial Ace and the attack boost thanks to Belly Drum, Charizard stands to become a complete beast in the upcoming game.
Blastoise:
From the looks of it, this Pokemon is slated to stay more-or-less the same, but might experience a slight fall on account of needing to defend against both physical and special attacks - a dilemma that will plague many Water types in these new games. Even so, both of Surf and Ice Beam remain special attacks, and if Earthquake ends up becoming a special maneuver, it can utilise this to great effect to fend off Electric types.
Butterfree:
Definitely slated to improve from what we assume and know. Psychic remains a special attack while it gains STAB on the special attack of Silver Wind, and should Hidden Power become special, it could even gain STAB from its Flying side using its Special Attack. It still has its repertoire of powders backed by Compoundeyes for versatility, allowing it to assume a role as a fairly competent special sweeper and a utility Pokemon. Watch out for physical sweepers with any of the punches, though. Shadow Ball also becomes a viable option.
Beedrill:
Loses Sludge Bomb as an offensive attack, but keeps Twineedle. With it, Brick Break, and Swords Dance in tow, it can still act as a powerful physical sweeper, though the loss of power from not having Sludge Bomb hampers it as well as its decline in Speed. Its frail defense serves to underpower it further as more physical sweepers take up the elemental punches in their movesets.
Pidgeot:
Does not change too much - its movepool is still regrettable so it can't do much, plus being one of the few Pokemon with a chance of using Hyper Beam effectively in RSE, it cannot pack that punch in those situations - but can use Steel Wing and its STAB Return and Aerial Ace just as well as before. It could lose its Hidden Power, but Featherdance scores it a few points by allowing it to soften the blow from Thunderpunch and Ice Punch now.
Raticate:
Bite and Pursuit serve to provide some coverage for the loss of Shadow Ball, its variety of Normal moves is still usable, and Flame Wheel makes an entrance as a physical attack. While it does get a few perks while keeping such moves as Reversal, it sees little improvement from its newfound abilities due to the tactics being underpowered and not providing enough support against its crippling Fighting weakness.
Fearow:
This physical sweeper could stand to lose the critical Hidden Power from its moveset, forcing it to rely on the less-than-stellar Steel Wing to cover any Rock types it might come across. While not much, this hinders it a fair bit even with its Choice Band and will likely see a fall in performance with these upcoming games.
Arbok:
Boy, does this guy lose out. Sludge Bomb no longer works off of attack, and both Earthquake and Rock Slide have the potential to become special attacks as well. There could very well be nothing left for this bugger besides Intimidiate and Glare unless some new move comes along for it. It's in Gamefreak court to fix up Pokemon such as this: we shall see if they do.
Pikachu:
No, Pikachu will still not be worth it. Even Scratch demolishes it. Don't bother.
Raichu:
Will get a slight benefit like every Electric in the game if Earthquake becomes a special move, but overall it will still be pretty much the same with its Thunderbolt and Surf pairing. Volt Tackle and Focus Punch present an interesting new take on the giant electric rodent's moveset if you're feeling a bit risky, though you lose the coverage of a Water move unless you're up for spending some more EVs on Special Attack.
Sandslash:
Like just about every other Ground type in the game, this Pokemon will surely be broken if Earthquake and Rock Slide end up becoming special attacks. If they do not as sensibility would dictate, our lovable pangolin will only stand to improve as Ice Punch and Fire Punch no longer will be trampling over its terrible Special Defense, allowing it ample time to perform its act and serve as a wall against physical attacks.
Nidoqueen:
While it never got much of anything anyways, this Pokemon will be left out in the cold considering that Sludge Bomb is likely to become a special attack. Should Earthquake end up taking that route as well, it will essentially be left with nothing with which to attack as it becomes relegated to a second-class defender with some special attacks on it. Not a good move for the empress.
Nidoking:
Facing a similar dilemma, he had better hope that Earthquake and Rock Slide not become special lest he need to rely on his average Special Attack to pull him through. Yet, by the same virtue, it will still have Megahorn as a physical attack, and while not much, Earthquake and Psychic would require it to focus on its Special Defense instead of doing a rather tricky and hindering EV split, which applies for many of the Poisons in the game. Watch out for the elemental punches, though.
Clefable:
Hooray for STAB Special Hyper Beam! But seriously, it doesn't change all too much. It still has it massive array of special moves to choose from with an added Shadow Ball, it still gets Follow Me, it's still a competent special defender in UU and 2v2, in general it won't be seeing any threats that beset it specifically and no other Pokemon. Stay wary of the elemental punches harping on its Defense.
Ninetales:
Doesn't lose much - but it never had much anyways. Unfortunately, it has little to gain at the same time. Flamethrower and Flash Fire still only go so far to prevent the onslaught of the enemy forces, though if Earthquake and Rock Slide become special attacks it will have a field day with its newfound ability to block them with its respectable Special Defense.
Wigglytuff:
Much the same case as Clefable, though its chubbier cousin still has the upper hand as it had before the new game mechanic was added to the system. It can still pull off the same act, but it doesn't get Follow Me and its offenses and defenses don't warrant it as much freedom and power in exercising those abilities. Not to mention it's also incredibly slow. Forego as usual.
Vileplume:
Sees some much-needed improvement in the STAB category with Sludge Bomb becoming a special attack, and together with Razor Leaf it can cover many more bases than before. Together with Synthesis, it will surely see an improvement in its abilities, though it is a bit more prone to seeing more damage from Fire Punches from physical sweepers.
Parasect:
Gets much worse. Still has those crippling quad weaknesses to Fire and Flying, doesn't gain any viable Grass moves for its Attack stat, and now it needs to fend against its weaknesses going against both of its defenses. Not that it was good to begin with, but now it has almost no chance for survival except in an NU environment...if even that.
Venomoth:
Sees both Silver Wind and Sludge Bomb working off its Special Attack. Together with Psychic and the several powders granted to it, not to mention a very good ability in Shield Dust, the only thing holding it back now are its average stats. Nevertheless, it sees a marked improvement in comparison to it spectacular failure in RSE.
Dugtrio:
Better hope for Rock Slide and Earthquake to stay physical moves just like every other Ground type in the game. Potentially loses HP Bug as an attack and never was really able to to defend attacks in the first place, so should Earthquake and Rock Slide stay physical attacks its performance should be more or less the same in the upcoming games.
Persian:
Loses Shadow Ball as a physical attack, so its best hope is most likely to become a second-rate mixed sweeper with Thunderbolt, Shadow Ball, Return, and Aerial Ace...or something like that. Needless to say, however, it will see a marked loss in performance and will not be worth raising up just as how it was in RSE.
Golduck:
Has some potential to take on a physical sweeping set with Ice Punch, Waterfall, and Cross Chop, or, if you want to keep the focus on its special stats, Surf, Ice Beam, and Psychic along with Calm Mind work just as well. Doesn't change too much, but watch out for physical Grass and Electric moves such as Petal Dance and Thunderpunch. Should still be a strong UU option at the very least.
Primeape:
Gets the punches to accentuate its ho-hum movepool. With them, it can pull a pseudo-Boltbeam combo combined with a STAB Brick Break as well. Will surely see improvement in this generation even if it does lose Rock Slide as a physical attack on account of these punches, and it can still Bulk Up just the same. Be on the lookout for the fastest Fighting type in the game to get an edge on more Pokemon than before.
Arcanine:
Crunch now acts as a physical attack, adding some much-needed diversity on that front. Keeps the ever-useful Extremespeed and gains STAB on the Attack side through the use of Flame Wheel, rendering it a much more viable option in the new generation. Howl serves as always to accentuate it hearty Attack stat. Surely to become the staple that its stats would dictate it be.
Poliwrath:
Waterfall become physical Water STAB, it still gets to use Brick Break, and Ice Punch makes an entrance as a physical Ice move, allowing it to use its types better to its advantage. Bulk Up or Hypnosis provide for some support moves on the moveset, and it can pose a threat to Poison and fellow Fighters with Psychic as a special accessory move if anyone cares. Should see improvement, but might be outclassed by other Fighters.
Alakazam:
And golly, is it taken down a peg. Loses all three elemental punches, gaining only Shadow Ball in return. Cannot really do as much damage to threats as it could, but becomes a viable slayer of fellow Psychics, as useful as that can possibly be, and threatens Ghosts that aren't Gengar a little bit more. On the bright side, it could defend against Earthquake better should it become special given its access to Calm Mind.
Machamp:
Awesome attack and access to the elemental punches equates to success for this formerly overshadowed Fighting type. Could lose Rock Slide, but won't be needing it considering its ability to use Ice Punch and Thunderpunch effectively now. Still gets to keep Brick Break and has ample Defenses and HP to take on all comers. It remains a slow Pokemon, but nevertheless it is bound to see improvement in this generation.
Victreebel:
Loses its physical STAB on Sludge Bomb, needing to rely on its Special Attack for both its best Grass and Poison moves - this lets it use Hidden Power more effectively and its Special Attack is still a very strong 100, but its Sludge Bomb loses its physical punch and is now more likely to see physical walling than before. It's still as defenseless as before, but ignoring that, it loses some considerable punch when it comes to its attacking.
Tentacruel:
By that same virtue, Tentacruel gets a marked improvement as Sludge Bomb now runs off its superior Special Attack. Should Earthquake see a switch, it will be much more able to defend against it with its very strong Special Defense as well. Thunderpunch presents problems, but overall it can still hold its ground with two STAB moves as well as Ice Beam, indicating that it will see some significant improvement in this upcoming game.
Golem:
It should sure as hell hope that it doesn't lose its viable STAB attacks to the special side, since that would only leave it Fire Punch and a bunch of Fighting moves with which to attack - oh, and Rollout, but nobody cares about Rollout. Can't Explode as well anymore either, but Fire Punch won't force a split in its EVs to Special Attack for Fire Blast. It can now withstand Ice Punch and the physical Waterfall much better - definitely should get better.
Rapidash:
Gets to use Flame Wheel as a physical attack now, much to its benefit. Even so, its movepool is still abysmal and, while it gets the ho-hum Double Kick and Iron Tail, it could lose Hidden Power to the special side, so it's still anyone's guess as to how it will fare in the new generation. Flash Fire presents added assistance against physical sweepers using Fire Punch nowadays, though.
Slowbro:
Doesn't lose anything, much to its advantage - in fact it gains Shadow Ball. However, now that the elemental punches are physical attacks, it can better defend against Thunderpunch for all that's worth. It needs to start getting those Calm Minds going should it wish to defend against Shadow Balls vaulted against it, and as always it's still an incredible slowcoach. Not likely to see a demotion, but not as likely to see improvement either.
Magneton:
Still doesn't learn any Steel moves, and if Earthquake becomes special - wait, nevermind, it still faints when the move goes after its Defense. Doesn't really change all that much except the Ground types might not have Earthquake at their disposal. In that case, it is bound to become a more stellar and regular peformer than the situational usage it sees right now.
Farfetch'd:
Its stats still blow and it's not getting any better, get used to it. Only an evolution can really save it.
Dodrio:
Could lose Hidden Power, in which case it loses much of its steam. With it, however, it's still as fierce a Choice Bander as it was in RSE - fast, diverse, immune to Earthquake, and packing a powerful punch. Should see more usage in this generation unless Hidden Power goes to the special side.
Dewgong:
Signal Beam becomes special so now it has more than just STAB special moves at its disposal. Yet, at the same time, its stats are still not well suited to its purposes and Lapras still outclasses it, so it's not likely to seeing any more performance than it is right now. Needless to say, though, it's still a very awesome Ice defender, but it sure can't do much else.
Muk:
Loses Sludge Bomb, Explosion and, along with them, any reason for it to be used. Yet, at the same time, its beefy fist is bound to see some more action with the elemental punches, which when boosted with Curse should make them formidable forces to reckon with. But still, the loss of Sludge Bomb and potentially Hidden Power - which could mean not even HP Poison - pose a serious encumberance to its furthering.
Cloyster:
Gets to use Waterfall as a physical attack now, but still better off using its not-as-great Special Attack since it doesn't learn Ice Punch. To its credit Explosion becomes a special attack, running off of a decent (with an EV investment) Special Attack. Thunderpunch doesn't harp on its pitiful Special Defense, and Ice Beam still destroys Grass types that lack in Special Defense or HP. Should improve, but how much remains to be seen.
Gengar:
And how this thing does get better - both Shadow Ball and Sludge Bomb now run off an incredible 130 Special Attack. Promises to give chills to the Psychics and Ghosts that once could take it down quite diligently, and everything else meets a swift Sludge Bomb. Focus Punch is still insanely powerful so the fact that it runs off its Attack is irrelevant, and it still has diversity in Psychic, Giga Drain, and Hidden Power to compensate for the loss of the punches. Should rise to a beastly status in the upcoming games.
Hypno:
Faces the ever-present Psychic dilemma: it loses all of its punches but gains Shadow Ball, which does little to compensate for the loss. However, now that Shadow Ball - and, to a lesser extent, Signal Beam and Silver Wind - is special, Hypno can finally meet its potential as a special wall. Insomnia is still troublesome for it since it disables Resting, but even so it sees a marked improvement in its abilities.
Kingler:
Crabhammer now serves as some viable physical STAB for this Pokemon long stripped of a usable movepool, but it could lose Hidden Power as a physical sweeping move. Double-Edge and Return nevertheless remain in regard to its physical attack, its Special Defense doesn't get exploited so much by Thunderpunchers, and Swords Dance still stays in its movepool. Improvement or demotion hinges largely on which way Hidden Power swings.
Electrode:
Its movepool still blows, but at least Explosion works off of Special Attack now, Hidden Power is still a decent choice, and Earthquake might now hit its not-as-bad Special Defense. Even so, it will likely be too fast for its own good and not be able to pack enough punch - which, along with its movepool, was the same issue that's plagued it in every generation before this one.
Exeggutor:
Sunnybeaming set is still the most viable option for it as it doesn't lose any of the attacks on it to its lesser Attack. Can better defend against Ice Punch and Crunch, but now Shadow Ball hurts more and Fire Punch still gets a boost from the sun to hurt just the same - but likely not enough for an OHKO. Explosion runs off of Special for those thinking of anything else but Sunnybeaming. Seems to be set to improve, but Gengar and other Psychics might ruin its party.
Marowak:
Can use two of the three elemental punches now from its absolutely incredible Attack stat, but it sure as heck cannot afford in the least to lose Earthquake. By that same virtue, Ice Punch and Waterfall won't be hurting it quite as much. Definitely stands to improve considering everything it has going for it - diversity, a great Attack and Defense, and Swords Dance to boot. Surely worth looking at.
Hitmonlee:
Hopefully will not lose Rock Slide as a physical attacking move. Yet, if it and Earthquake do go to that side, it will be able to defend against them better thanks to its esteemed Special Defense. Should hope not to lose its valuable Hidden Power, though - Ghost covers its grounds very well. It doesn't get a whole lot more, but it sure stands to lose plenty of its maneuvers.
Hitmonchan:
Physical elemental punches help this poor sap out a boatload, and because of them might actually get an edge over its more limber and hard-hitting cousin. The diversity added to its moveset along with Bulk Up and the ever-powerful Sky Uppercut make this Pokemon a very good contender for improvement, and nevertheless its increased Defense should see better usage thanks to the virtues its punches grant it.
Lickitung:
Nope, the thing still isn't any good. Shadow Ball only goes far off of an attacking stat that is but a meager 10 points higher than its physical, and it needs to do a stat split should it want STAB - of course, if you're feeling like a coot you can use Hyper Beam. Don't even bother with it.
Weezing:
Loses some attack power thanks to Sludge Bomb, Shadow Ball, and Explosion going to the special side, but now it doesn't need to split its EVs between its attacking stats. Fire Blast and Thunderbolt accentuate its new Special Attack with diversity, and it still can act as an incredible wall thanks to its Defense blocking out more attacks - just keep an eye out for Shadow Ball, however.
Rhydon:
Gains Crunch to allow it to slay Ghosts better, but needs to keep Earthquake and Rock Slide for its life. Even so, Crunch doesn't really help it too much, but could be useful to take down the threat that Gengar is sure to become. Keep your eye out for its Shadow Ball pulverizing your Special Defense, however - Rhydon always was tricky to use, however, yet still promises to be moderately good.
Tangela:
Still likely to underpeform, but its Defense gives it coverage against Ice Punchers and Fire Punchers unless it's doing a Sunnybeaming set. Hidden Power and Sludge Bomb provide for some non-STAB coverage, though Sunnybeaming with HP Fire or HP Ice looks to be the best set for it. Watch out for Ice Beam and Flamethrower, though, but those moves have always been an issue for it since the Special Split. Gengar gives you troubles as it does nearly everything.
Kangaskhan:
Loses Shadow Ball and possibly Hidden Power, so it might have no worthwhile Ghost coverage whatsoever. It still gets to keep Return and Focus Punch, though, but even so the Subpunching set will be eternally upset by Gengar if it doesn't get any physical Ghost or Dark moves at its disposal. As with a few other Pokemon - especially the Ground types - its status will be very situational depending on which way certain attacks go.
Seaking:
Megahorn and Waterfall make for a more elegant combination, but the thing still yearns to keep Hidden Power for its life. Thunderpunch poses worries for its lackluster Defense, but its good Special Defense still blocks against Shadow Ball and other commonplace attacks, including every other Electric and Grass attack worth using.
Starmie:
Still has a good movepool and doesn't lose any of the attacks that run off of its Special Attack, and was never really a defender anyway so it doesn't lose much in that regard. It doesn't lose any steam for sure, as it can still sweep with Surf/Ice Beam/Thunderbolt/Psychic as well as assume a Spinning role, but it doesn't terribly improve by very much either.
Mr. Mime:
Loses the potential to use any of the punches, forcing it to rely on Hidden Power. Yet, by the virtue, it can defend better against Shadow Ball, although its absolutely pitiful HP will be taking abuse from whatever comes its way as usual. However, it can use Shadow Ball to fend off fellow Psychics and Ghosts now - though, at the same time, Psychic is still better against Gengar on account of its Poisonous side.
Scyther:
Could lose Silver Wind and Hidden Power Bug and, thereby, any physical STAB for its Bug side. It still learns Aerial Ace much to its delight, so its Flying side won't be deprived even if Hidden Power ends up special. Nevertheless, though, its bad movepool just got worse, forcing it further down the tier ladder in this brave new world.
Jynx:
Doesn't lose any of the punches because, unlike most Psychics, it never got them in the first place. Ice Beam and Psychic still provide good coverage, and it gains Shadow Ball to support its lackluster special movepool. Shadow Ball won't be going after its horrendous Defense anymore, and neither will possibly Earthquake and Rock Slide. It seems that it will improve, but it could be outclassed by other Ice and Psychic types.
Electabuzz:
Assuming this brute doesn't evolve, a deprecation of its battle worth seems imminent on account of losing the elemental punches. Needing to rely on a strong Hidden Power now that its major claim to fame - being one of the few Electric types that can learn an Ice move - has effectively been stripped from it, other more powerful Electric types are likely to get an edge on this humanoid tiger as we enter the fourth generation.
Magmar:
It can try a physical sweeper set now with Cross Chop/Brick Break, Fire Punch, and Thunderpunch in tow, or it can use its slightly better Special Attack to launch Flamethrowers and Psychics at its foes. Earthquake and Rock Slide might not be going after its lackluster Defense anymore. Seems pretty set to get better in this generation as it gains some more diversity.
Pinsir:
Had better hope not to lose Earthquake, Rock Slide, and Hidden Power Bug as physical move choices. Besides that, physical sweepers won't be hurting it as much with their Fire Punches thanks to Pinsir's good Defense, so this previously-shafted Pokemon is likely to get better within this generation. However, that depends entirely on whether it can still use its old tricks or not.
Tauros:
Can lose Hidden Power to officially rob it from any diversity. Its movepool is still terrible, which won't prove to be good in any environment, but should it become even worse it might very well not be worth the effort considering other Choice Banders still have wondrous movepools even if Earthquake and Rock Slide go to the special side. Things aren't looking good for Tauros, that is for sure.
Gyarados:
If it loses Hidden Power and Earthquake, it's screwed. Waterfall and Dragon Dance might very well be its only saving graces barring a reform of its stats, considering it now has to face Thunderpunches with its physical Defense. Things seem set for it to become considerably worse than before.
Lapras:
Doesn't lose any moves to the physical side, still has Water Absorb, and ultimately should prove to be a more potent force in the upcoming games thanks to being more able to defend against moves from all over the spectrum with its hearty defenses backed by its massive HP. Might be able to withstand Gengar's thrashing enough to deliver it a Psychic - but watch out for Thunderbolts coming in your direction.
Ditto:
Ditto sucks.
Vaporeon:
Gets more love, but still has to be on the lookout for Thunderpunches. Surf and Ice Beam return on the most versatile Eeveelution, although Bite becomes rather useless now because of it not running off of its healthy Special Attack. Nevertheless, though, it should not find itself needing it in the long run when Surf and Ice Beam cover so much.
Jolteon:
Will get a huge break if Earthquake becomes special as it will be going after its respectable Special Defense. Thunderbolt and Hidden Power Grass/Ice are still viable options for the quilled quadruped, and Substitute and Baton Pass work just as well as ever before. Definitely a choice to consider in the upcoming games as usual.
Flareon:
Shafted big time. Loses Shadow Ball for the weaker Bite, blowing some wind out of the famous Choice Band set. Doesn't get any physical STAB just as before. The only real redeeming factor it gets is that Earthquake and Rock Slide maybe, just maybe might go after its very established Special Defense than its horrid Defense. Yet, all signs point to it getting worse.
Omastar:
Keeps its special STAB in Surf, but it might get some special STAB in Rock Slide - in which case it would be considerably improved. It can block against Thunderpunches now with its sky-high Defense as well as dish out damage with its two or three sweeping moves while still being able to Spin or Rest as support maneuvers. All in all, it seems much improvement in these upcoming games. Watch out for Earthquake and Special Defense, though.
Kabutops:
The same virtue that might assist Omastar would debilitate Kabutops as it loses its Rock-type STAB. Yet, at the same time, it receives physical Water STAB with Waterfall, helping its case a bit. Swords Dance and Endure/Flail are still viable options, and it still gets that awesome protection from Sand Stream to benefit it against Tyranitar. It still depends on some choices Gamefreak makes, but either Omastar or Kabutops will be going big.
Aerodactyl:
Could lose Earthquake, Rock Slide, and Hidden Power Flying, in which case it would make it much, MUCH worse. To its credit, though, it gets an unstabbed Dragon Claw as well as Bite. Iron Tail might become a regrettable staple move on the beast should it lose its three most viable move choices, and Double-Edge has always been a sexy choice for physical sweepers with bad movepools.
Snorlax:
Loses Shadow Ball and could possibly lose Earthquake, but it gains the three elemental punches to support its cause. Fire Punch will do well against the Skarmory that come its way, while Thunderpunch will help against it and the many, many Flying types in the game. Ice Punch could make Snorlax a viable Dragon slayer, provided they don't get to it first with their sky-high Attacks. It could lose a lot with Earthquake, but it is bound to gain more variability with the punches.
Articuno:
Would get considerably better if Rock Slide went after its Special Defense than its not-as-great Defense. Ice Beam and Extrasensory return as usual for special move options, and Hidden Power Flying could very well end up a special attack to support its STAB further. Sees much improvement in the battle field, but how much improvement remains to be seen.
Zapdos:
Regrettably for Zappy, Drill Peck is still a physical move, but Thunderbolt and HP Grass ought to remain special attacks. Its Flying type was never really that important except when it came to Earthquake - it doesn't cover any of its two weaknesses. Still seems to be going strong in this generation and is likely to make a triumphant return as a lead-out on many teams.
Moltres:
Could gain beastly-awesome attacking power with STAB special Hidden Power Flying, though Grass is still a better option for it. Rock Slide pounded its higher physical Defense anyway so if it becomes special it won't matter for Moltres. Extrasensory is, as it has been since XD, a good choice for variety, and Will-O-Wisp is still the grand support move it has always been. Keep your eye out for this flaming buzzard.
Dragonite:
CHOICE BAND DRAGON CLAW OFF OF 134 ATTACK WILL HURT. It's bound to become an absolute beast with a new Choice Band set, Dragon Claw/Hidden Power Flying/Ice Punch/Thunderpunch - or Aerial Ace if HP ends up special. Focus Punch and Fire Punch remain viable options as well for the Choice Band set, further adding to its unpredictability. Could be outclassed by the faster Salamence, but its versatility ought to be remembered.
Mewtwo:
And what a Psychic slayer it becomes now that it has Shadow Ball - with its crushing Psychic, a strong Boltbeam combo, and Shadow Ball, it can cover nine types out of seventeen - most of the others will likely be pounded by a Psychic, only Darks stand a chance against this brute now. Bound to become an absolute god in the upcoming games, though it will still remain an uber to be sure.
Mew:
Sure, it can pull off Mewtwo's act, or it can be cool and try a special set like Psychic/Earthquake/Rock Slide/Ice Beam should that possibilty exist, but versatility aside, it will still be outclassed by Mewtwo, yet it will still be an uber because of that versatility. The only thing this cat embryo will be doing is begging for a borderline tier between OU and Uber.
