[OVERVIEW]
Heatran is a phenomenal balance and stallbreaker due to its great Special Attack stat, above average bulk, and expansive movepool. Furthermore, its Fire / Steel typing provides it with a plethora of resistances to common offensive types such as Grass, Fairy, and Psychic. Magma Storm's secondary trapping effect allows Heatran to effectively take out Pokemon such as Toxapex with Earth Power as well as cripple bulky Water-types with Toxic that otherwise might try to switch out. Heatran's great offensive capabilities allow it to run a multitude of Z-Moves to lure some of its common defensive checks and take them out; Tectonic Rage can help with Toxapex, Bloom Doom can heavily damage bulky Water-types, and Corkscrew Crash can OHKO Tyranitar as well as deal massive damage to Zygarde. Furthermore, Heatran can fulfill a multitude of support roles for a team such as setting up Stealth Rock, shutting down support Pokemon with Taunt, and spreading status. However, Heatran does suffer because of its mediocre Speed and the use of coverage moves for it on Pokemon that it should check such as Volcarona and Magearna.
[SET]
name: Utility
move 1: Magma Storm
move 2: Earth Power
move 3: Taunt
move 4: Toxic / Stealth Rock
item: Leftovers
ability: Flash Fire
nature: Timid
evs: 252 HP / 4 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Magma Storm is a high-Base Power Fire-type STAB move that traps the foe and deals good residual damage after each turn, thus annoying even Pokemon that resist it trying to switch in. Earth Power provides crucial coverage for opposing Heatran and Toxapex, which could otherwise switch into Heatran safely, as well as Tyranitar and Mega Charizard X. Taunt is a great utility move, as it stops recovery from the likes of Chansey, Toxapex, and non-Earthquake Mega Venusaur, thus allowing Heatran to beat them one-on-one. Toxic puts switch-ins like Zygarde and Keldeo on a timer and allows Heatran to beat Chansey in conjunction with Magma Storm's residual damage. Bulky Water-types like Mantine and Gastrodon don't like taking a Toxic upon switching in either, as they need to use their recovery moves repeatedly in order to beat some of the Pokemon they check like Ash-Greninja. Stealth Rock is an option as Heatran's last move if no other teammate has it already, as it's mandatory on any team and Heatran can prove to be a great setter. Due to its typing, Heatran can find plenty of opportunities to set up a Substitute against Grass- and Steel-types it forces out like Ferrothorn, Celesteela, and Scizor, which eases prediction against the incoming switch-in.
Set Details
========
Maximum HP investment gives Heatran decent bulk, allowing it to take a couple of Psychic Terrain-boosted Psychics from Choice Specs Tapu Lele and endure an All-Out Pummeling from Shift Gear Magearna. It also reduces damage taken from Seismic Toss from Chansey and Scald from Toxapex, two Pokemon that require several turns for Heatran to defeat. Maximum Speed investment with a Timid nature lets Heatran outspeed Jolly Tapu Bulu and Timid Magearna. Leftovers is the key to Heatran's sustainability, as it's its only source of recovery and is needed in order to prevent Heatran from being worn down too quickly. Flash Fire is Heatran's only available ability and situationally useful to boost its Magma Storm.
Usage Tips
========
Avoid Knock Off at all costs, because Heatran relies on Leftovers recovery to keep itself healthy. Some Pokemon that usually can't touch Heatran like Mega Scizor, Clefable, and Ferrothorn can cripple it severely with Knock Off. Switch Heatran into foes that don't threaten it at all like Defog Mega Scizor, Ferrothorn, and Celesteela, and start throwing out attacks or set up a Substitute to gain momentum on the switch-in, though be careful when switching Heatran into Leech Seed users like Ferrothorn and Celesteela, because it will be forced right back out. If the opponent has a bulky Water-type like Mantine that doesn't fear anything from Heatran, use Toxic to cripple it as it switches in or set up Stealth Rock. Scout for coverage moves like Earthquake on Mew, Surf on Latios, Earthquake on Mega Venusaur, and Focus Punch on Mawile before using Heatran as a switch-in to these threats. When taking on special walls like Chansey and Toxapex, time Taunt precisely on a predicted recovery move to avoid taking extra damage from Seismic Toss or Scald.
Team Options
========
Grass-types like Tangrowth and Mega Venusaur can act as switch-ins for offensive Water-types that threaten Heatran such as Ash-Greninja and Keldeo. Meanwhile, SubSD Tapu Bulu can use the bulky Water-types that don't mind switching into Magma Storm like Mantine and Gastrodon as setup fodder. It also provides extra passive recovery for Heatran with the Grassy Terrain summoned by its Grassy Surge ability and weakens Earthquake. Ground-types like Landorus-T and Zygarde are another nuisance for Heatran, as they force it out and can use that turn to set up. Pokemon resistant or immune to Ground like Tangrowth and defensive Landorus-T can deal with them, though they have to be wary of Z-Moves. Heatran is a great balance breaker but struggles against offense, so teammates that can cover this matchup like Ash-Greninja and Tapu Koko are appreciated. Additionally, they invite in Grass-types Heatran beats. Due to the lack of Special Attack investment, Heatran can't do much to stall teams because it's walled by Mega Sableye. Therefore, wallbreakers that can pressure this archetype like Choice Specs Tapu Lele and Swords Dance Landorus-T make for good partners.
[SET]
name: Z-Move Trapper
move 1: Magma Storm
move 2: Earth Power
move 3: Toxic / Stealth Rock
move 4: Taunt
item: Firium Z / Groundium Z
ability: Flash Fire
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Magma Storm is a Fire-type STAB move with a great secondary effect; it traps the foe and deals residual damage after each turn. This allows Heatran to proceed to fire off a strong Inferno Overdrive afterwards without fearing the opponent predicting it and switching out. Earth Power rounds out Heatran's coverage by hitting opposing Heatran, Toxapex, and Tyranitar. When paired with Groundium Z it can destroy Toxapex and Tyranitar, thus avoiding Scald or Pursuit damage. Toxic is aimed at the Water-types Heatran can't defeat with either Z-Move like Mantine and Gastrodon, which need to be careful when switching into threats when poisoned. Alternatively, Stealth Rock can be used on this slot, as it's mandatory on any team and Heatran can find opportunities to set it up. Taunt shuts down recovery moves from passive walls like Chansey and Toxapex and gives Heatran an easier time beating them one-on-one.
Set Details
========
Maximum Special Attack investment increases Heatran's damage output, helping it deal with defensive threats it would struggle against otherwise like Mega Sableye and Toxapex. Maximum Speed investment coupled with a Timid nature lets Heatran outpace the likes of Adamant Tapu Bulu and Timid Magearna. Firium Z turns Magma Storm into a powerful attack, capable of KOing Mega Sableye after Magma Storm damage and OHKOing Tangrowth to avoid taking an Earthquake. It also has a chance to OHKO defensive Landorus-T in a one-on-one situation. Alternatively, Groundium Z can be used to give Heatran access to Tectonic Rage, which blows back Toxapex to avoid Scald damage and deals with Tyranitar. Finally, Heatran can make use of its only available ability in Flash Fire by switching into predicted Fire-type moves to further boost its Inferno Overdrive.
Usage Tips
========
Try to bring Heatran into the field through double switches or with the aid of VoltTurn support, as this variant is more offensively focused and lacks the extra bulk of an HP-invested Heatran and the sustainability of Leftovers variants. Therefore, you also need to play more conservatively with it; avoid letting it take damage, even from strong resisted hits, as it won't be able to recover any lost HP and it needs some health to effectively take on the likes of Chansey and, if lacking Groundium Z, Toxapex. Moreover, don't let too many entry hazards go up on your side of the field because Spikes damage can stack pretty quickly on Heatran lacking Leftovers. As with any other Heatran set, you should scout for super effective coverage on Pokemon that usually can't do too much damage to Heatran like Mew before attempting to take advantage of them.
Magma Storm is a pretty safe move to use when Heatran makes it onto the field if the opponent has an offensive switch-in like Greninja or Keldeo, since it does decent damage thanks to the Special Attack investment, and the immediate residual damage from Magma Storm can be more helpful than Toxic in the long run. If the opponent has a more durable switch-in that even a Z-Move can't take down like Mantine or Gastrodon, Toxic should be the move of choice instead, as it will cripple said switch-in for the rest of the game. When facing stall, try to bluff Leftovers Heatran by not taking any damage to lure in Mega Sableye and smack it with an Inferno Overdrive after baiting Protect first.
Team Options
========
Unlike more defensively oriented Heatran sets, this one can't afford to switch into the the immense threat that is Tapu Lele, so it's going to need a teammate that can handle Tapu Lele. Other Steel-types like Celesteela and Assault Vest Magearna can act as sturdy switch-ins, with Celesteela also providing a Ground immunity, though it doesn't check Thousand Arrows Zygarde and Gravity Landorus-T. On top of this, they bait Fire-type moves Heatran enjoys coming in on to get a boost. Grass-types have great defensive synergy with Heatran due to the resistances they bring to the table, so Pokemon like Tangrowth and Mega Venusaur are ideal teammates. Another Grass-type that deserves a mention is Tapu Bulu, which, despite not providing as much defensive utility as the former two, can form a formidable offensive core alongside Heatran while giving it passive recovery and halving damage from Earthquake due to Grassy Terrain. Defensive pivots that can switch into threats and bring Heatran onto the field safely like Landorus-T and Assault Vest Magearna are outstanding teammates, as Heatran would normally struggle to get into the game without VoltTurn support and needs a solid defensive backbone to fall back on when forced out. Finally, Pokemon that can deal with offense and clean up after Heatran has done its wallbreaking job such as Ash-Greninja and Choice Scarf Kartana work well with it.
[SET]
name: Specially Defensive
move 1: Lava Plume
move 2: Toxic / Will-O-Wisp
move 3: Protect / Taunt
move 4: Stealth Rock
item: Leftovers
ability: Flash Fire
nature: Calm
evs: 248 HP / 220 SpD / 40 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Lava Plume is chosen as Heatran's Fire-type STAB move due to its high burn chance and decent Base Power. Toxic wears down Heatran's switch-ins, namely specially bulky Water-types that force it out, and is overall a nice move to have on a relatively passive Heatran set. On the other hand, Will-O-Wisp lets it deal with Mega Mawile without having to watch out for Sucker Punch and surprises some switch-ins like Zygarde and Garchomp. Protect lets Heatran regain extra HP from its Leftovers, stack poison damage on a foe hit by Toxic, and scout for super effective coverage. It can also catch Mega Medicham and Mega Lopunny off guard by dodging their High Jump Kick and inflicting recoil. Taunt is an option on this Heatran too despite its lack of offensive presence and its main goal being switching into threats. It annoys walls like Chansey and Mew by preventing them from recovering and potentially even stopping Stealth Rock from some Pokemon like Clefable. This Heatran variant is way bulkier thanks to the Special Defense investment, which gives it even more opportunities to set up Stealth Rock and pressure the opposing team. Another option on Heatran is Earth Power, which can nail opposing Heatran on the switch, though it doesn't acomplish much outside of that.
Set Details
========
The given EV spread and nature maximize Heatran's special bulk with just enough Speed to outpace maximum Speed invested Adamant Mega Mawile. Leftovers is Heatran's only way of recovering its health and has good synergy with Protect because of the extra recovery turns Heatran gets. Flash Fire is Heatran's only ability and provides it with a key Fire immunity.
Usage Tips
========
Never let Heatran take a Knock Off, as it will become fairly easy to wear down without Leftovers recovery. Always scout for the move when facing Pokemon that may carry it like Clefable and Ferrothorn. Use Protect to scout for super effective coverage on Pokemon like Mew, Latios, and Mega Venusaur. This also gives Heatran extra recovery turns from Leftovers, so you can use it against Pokemon that naturally force it out like Choice Specs Ash-Greninja and Keldeo to get extra HP; however, you shouldn't use it against setup sweepers and wallbreakers like Dragon Dance Gyarados and Zygarde because that would just give them an extra turn to set up. Set up Stealth Rock as soon as possible to start stacking residual damage on incoming switch-ins. Lastly, use Toxic or Will-O-Wisp on predicted switches to bulky Water-types like Mantine or offensive Ground-types like Zygarde and Landorus-T.
Team Options
========
Specially defensive Heatran is a good start to a solid defensive backbone that can fit on both bulky offense and balance archetypes. Pokemon that struggle with Tapu Lele and Magearna but can deal with Water-types and Ground-types pair well with Heatran, such as bulky Grass-types like Tangrowth and Mega Venusaur and bulky Water-types like Mantine and Toxapex. Mew and Clefable are solid switch-ins to Mega Medicham and Mega Lopunny, the most relevant Fighting-types in the tier, which threaten Heatran with their super effective STAB moves. They also check some Ground-types like Zygarde and Landorus-T, though Swords Dance Garchomp remains a threat to them. This Heatran set provides little offensive presence if any at all, so it's going to need strong wallbreakers as teammates to apply pressure. Pokemon like Choice Specs Tapu Lele, Swords Dance Tapu Bulu, and Swords Dance Landorus-T work here, with the former two also appreciating Heatran's ability to handle Magearna. Tapu Bulu is a notable partner because of its Grassy Surge ability, which summons Grassy Terrain to give Heatran extra recovery and weaken Earthquake.
[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Fire Blast
move 2: Flash Cannon
move 3: Earth Power
move 4: Stone Edge / Will-O-Wisp
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Flash Fire
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Fire Blast is Heatran's strongest Fire-type move and is used instead of Overheat for consistent damage. Flash Cannon is its Steel-type STAB move and is crucial for hitting Tapu Lele and Tyranitar super effectively. It also has good neutral coverage, which can be useful for late-game cleaning. Earth Power nails opposing Heatran and OHKOes Tapu Koko after Stealth Rock damage. Stone Edge is intended to surprise Mega Charizard Y, which would normally try to weaken Heatran with Focus Blast, and unboosted Volcarona. Alternatively, Will-O-Wisp allows Heatran to check Mega Mawile more effectively, as +2 Sucker Punch OHKOes it after Stealth Rock damage, and also prevents threats like Zygarde and Garchomp from switching in freely, though it's obviously not an ideal move to be locked into. Hidden Power Ice deals with Landorus-T, Zygarde, and Garchomp, three Ground-types that normally force Heatran out, though bear in mind that it needs some prior damage to KO defensive Landorus-T variants and both Zygarde and Garchomp.
Set Details
========
Maximum Speed investment with a Timid nature and a Choice Scarf lets Heatran hit a nice Speed tier, outspeeding Mega Lopunny and everything slower. Maximum Special Attack investment maximizes Heatran's damage output in order to have an easier time revenge killing and cleaning up. Flash Fire is Heatran's only available ability and is quite useful for pivoting into a Fire-type move from Mega Charizard Y or opposing Heatran and forcing them out.
Usage Tips
========
Take advantage of Heatran's improved Speed tier to revenge kill or force out the likes of Tapu Lele and Tapu Koko. One of the main draws of Choice Scarf Heatran is its ability to pivot into resisted moves like Tapu Lele's Moonblast, Kartana's Leaf Blade, and Tapu Koko's Dazzling Gleam and force them out. If possible, don't reveal Heatran is a Choice Scarf variant because you can use it to your advantage and lure the opponent into staying in with one of the aforementioned Pokemon thinking their Pokemon will be able to outspeed Heatran and knock it out. When facing a boosted Mawile, use Will-O-Wisp on a predicted Sucker Punch to avoid taking damage and neutralize it for the rest of the game. Will-O-Wisp can also be used on a predicted switch to Zygarde or Garchomp, though locking Heatran into it is undesirable.
Team Options
========
Since having two Choice Scarf users on the same team is usually undesirable, Choice Scarf Heatran needs to be paired with defensive Volcarona answers like Mantine and a combination of Shattered Psyche and Savage Spin-Out targets like Toxapex and Mega Latias or Tyranitar. In some cases a secondary Choice Scarf user like Latios or Greninja can be used, though using this item on several Pokemon can be detrimental when trying to keep momentum in a battle. Heatran also needs teammates like Tapu Koko and Swords Dance Tapu Bulu that can deal with Water-types it can't handle Ground- and Water-types like Landorus-T, Zygarde, and Ash-Greninja are still a problem for Heatran as long as they're healthy enough to endure a hit and retaliate with a super effective move. Therefore, switch-ins to these threats like Ferrothorn, Tangrowth, and Landorus-T make for great teammates.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
Grassium Z can be used alongside Solar Beam for a strong Bloom Doom on offensive Heatran for coverage against Water-types like Gastrodon, Quagsire, and Tapu Fini. Another Z-Move option is Corkscrew Crash from Flash Cannon to deal massive damage to the likes of Tyranitar, Latios, and Mega Sableye as well as hitting Ground-types like Zygarde and Landorus-T on the switch. Offensive Heatran can also opt for a Modest nature for even more damage if outspeeding Tapu Bulu and Magearna isn't deemed necessary. Roar is a situational utility move specially defensive Heatran can run when paired with Spikes setters to shuffle around the opposing team and get residual damage on the whole team.
Checks and Counters
===================
**Water-type Pokemon and Coverage**: Without Bloom Doom, Heatran can't do much to Water-types like Tapu Fini, Gastrodon, and Quagsire, which come in on it and force it out. Offensive Water-types like Ash-Greninja and Keldeo can switch into it a couple of times and force it out too
**Ground-type Pokemon and Coverage**: Ground-types like Landorus-T, Zygarde, and Garchomp force Heatran out pretty easily. Other Pokemon such as Mew, Volcarona, and Venusaur may carry Ground-type coverage moves for Heatran too, so it has to be careful when switching into them.
**Knock Off**: Utility and specially defensive Heatran rely on their Leftovers to regain health and become much more susceptible to residual damage without it. Therefore, they have to watch out for Knock Off from the likes of Clefable and Ferrothorn.
**Fighting-type Pokemon and Coverage**: Fighting-types such as Mega Medicham, Keldeo, and Mega Gallade naturally force Heatran out. Pokemon like Magearna and Mega Charizard Y usually pack Focus Blast for Heatran too.
**Strong Attackers**: As Leftovers is Heatran's only source of recovery, it can't afford to take strong neutral hits like Choice Band Tyranitar's Stone Edge and Choice Band Hoopa's Hyperspace Fury.
Heatran is a phenomenal balance and stallbreaker due to its great Special Attack stat, above average bulk, and expansive movepool. Furthermore, its Fire / Steel typing provides it with a plethora of resistances to common offensive types such as Grass, Fairy, and Psychic. Magma Storm's secondary trapping effect allows Heatran to effectively take out Pokemon such as Toxapex with Earth Power as well as cripple bulky Water-types with Toxic that otherwise might try to switch out. Heatran's great offensive capabilities allow it to run a multitude of Z-Moves to lure some of its common defensive checks and take them out; Tectonic Rage can help with Toxapex, Bloom Doom can heavily damage bulky Water-types, and Corkscrew Crash can OHKO Tyranitar as well as deal massive damage to Zygarde. Furthermore, Heatran can fulfill a multitude of support roles for a team such as setting up Stealth Rock, shutting down support Pokemon with Taunt, and spreading status. However, Heatran does suffer because of its mediocre Speed and the use of coverage moves for it on Pokemon that it should check such as Volcarona and Magearna.
[SET]
name: Utility
move 1: Magma Storm
move 2: Earth Power
move 3: Taunt
move 4: Toxic / Stealth Rock
item: Leftovers
ability: Flash Fire
nature: Timid
evs: 252 HP / 4 SpA / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Magma Storm is a high-Base Power Fire-type STAB move that traps the foe and deals good residual damage after each turn, thus annoying even Pokemon that resist it trying to switch in. Earth Power provides crucial coverage for opposing Heatran and Toxapex, which could otherwise switch into Heatran safely, as well as Tyranitar and Mega Charizard X. Taunt is a great utility move, as it stops recovery from the likes of Chansey, Toxapex, and non-Earthquake Mega Venusaur, thus allowing Heatran to beat them one-on-one. Toxic puts switch-ins like Zygarde and Keldeo on a timer and allows Heatran to beat Chansey in conjunction with Magma Storm's residual damage. Bulky Water-types like Mantine and Gastrodon don't like taking a Toxic upon switching in either, as they need to use their recovery moves repeatedly in order to beat some of the Pokemon they check like Ash-Greninja. Stealth Rock is an option as Heatran's last move if no other teammate has it already, as it's mandatory on any team and Heatran can prove to be a great setter. Due to its typing, Heatran can find plenty of opportunities to set up a Substitute against Grass- and Steel-types it forces out like Ferrothorn, Celesteela, and Scizor, which eases prediction against the incoming switch-in.
Set Details
========
Maximum HP investment gives Heatran decent bulk, allowing it to take a couple of Psychic Terrain-boosted Psychics from Choice Specs Tapu Lele and endure an All-Out Pummeling from Shift Gear Magearna. It also reduces damage taken from Seismic Toss from Chansey and Scald from Toxapex, two Pokemon that require several turns for Heatran to defeat. Maximum Speed investment with a Timid nature lets Heatran outspeed Jolly Tapu Bulu and Timid Magearna. Leftovers is the key to Heatran's sustainability, as it's its only source of recovery and is needed in order to prevent Heatran from being worn down too quickly. Flash Fire is Heatran's only available ability and situationally useful to boost its Magma Storm.
Usage Tips
========
Avoid Knock Off at all costs, because Heatran relies on Leftovers recovery to keep itself healthy. Some Pokemon that usually can't touch Heatran like Mega Scizor, Clefable, and Ferrothorn can cripple it severely with Knock Off. Switch Heatran into foes that don't threaten it at all like Defog Mega Scizor, Ferrothorn, and Celesteela, and start throwing out attacks or set up a Substitute to gain momentum on the switch-in, though be careful when switching Heatran into Leech Seed users like Ferrothorn and Celesteela, because it will be forced right back out. If the opponent has a bulky Water-type like Mantine that doesn't fear anything from Heatran, use Toxic to cripple it as it switches in or set up Stealth Rock. Scout for coverage moves like Earthquake on Mew, Surf on Latios, Earthquake on Mega Venusaur, and Focus Punch on Mawile before using Heatran as a switch-in to these threats. When taking on special walls like Chansey and Toxapex, time Taunt precisely on a predicted recovery move to avoid taking extra damage from Seismic Toss or Scald.
Team Options
========
Grass-types like Tangrowth and Mega Venusaur can act as switch-ins for offensive Water-types that threaten Heatran such as Ash-Greninja and Keldeo. Meanwhile, SubSD Tapu Bulu can use the bulky Water-types that don't mind switching into Magma Storm like Mantine and Gastrodon as setup fodder. It also provides extra passive recovery for Heatran with the Grassy Terrain summoned by its Grassy Surge ability and weakens Earthquake. Ground-types like Landorus-T and Zygarde are another nuisance for Heatran, as they force it out and can use that turn to set up. Pokemon resistant or immune to Ground like Tangrowth and defensive Landorus-T can deal with them, though they have to be wary of Z-Moves. Heatran is a great balance breaker but struggles against offense, so teammates that can cover this matchup like Ash-Greninja and Tapu Koko are appreciated. Additionally, they invite in Grass-types Heatran beats. Due to the lack of Special Attack investment, Heatran can't do much to stall teams because it's walled by Mega Sableye. Therefore, wallbreakers that can pressure this archetype like Choice Specs Tapu Lele and Swords Dance Landorus-T make for good partners.
[SET]
name: Z-Move Trapper
move 1: Magma Storm
move 2: Earth Power
move 3: Toxic / Stealth Rock
move 4: Taunt
item: Firium Z / Groundium Z
ability: Flash Fire
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Magma Storm is a Fire-type STAB move with a great secondary effect; it traps the foe and deals residual damage after each turn. This allows Heatran to proceed to fire off a strong Inferno Overdrive afterwards without fearing the opponent predicting it and switching out. Earth Power rounds out Heatran's coverage by hitting opposing Heatran, Toxapex, and Tyranitar. When paired with Groundium Z it can destroy Toxapex and Tyranitar, thus avoiding Scald or Pursuit damage. Toxic is aimed at the Water-types Heatran can't defeat with either Z-Move like Mantine and Gastrodon, which need to be careful when switching into threats when poisoned. Alternatively, Stealth Rock can be used on this slot, as it's mandatory on any team and Heatran can find opportunities to set it up. Taunt shuts down recovery moves from passive walls like Chansey and Toxapex and gives Heatran an easier time beating them one-on-one.
Set Details
========
Maximum Special Attack investment increases Heatran's damage output, helping it deal with defensive threats it would struggle against otherwise like Mega Sableye and Toxapex. Maximum Speed investment coupled with a Timid nature lets Heatran outpace the likes of Adamant Tapu Bulu and Timid Magearna. Firium Z turns Magma Storm into a powerful attack, capable of KOing Mega Sableye after Magma Storm damage and OHKOing Tangrowth to avoid taking an Earthquake. It also has a chance to OHKO defensive Landorus-T in a one-on-one situation. Alternatively, Groundium Z can be used to give Heatran access to Tectonic Rage, which blows back Toxapex to avoid Scald damage and deals with Tyranitar. Finally, Heatran can make use of its only available ability in Flash Fire by switching into predicted Fire-type moves to further boost its Inferno Overdrive.
Usage Tips
========
Try to bring Heatran into the field through double switches or with the aid of VoltTurn support, as this variant is more offensively focused and lacks the extra bulk of an HP-invested Heatran and the sustainability of Leftovers variants. Therefore, you also need to play more conservatively with it; avoid letting it take damage, even from strong resisted hits, as it won't be able to recover any lost HP and it needs some health to effectively take on the likes of Chansey and, if lacking Groundium Z, Toxapex. Moreover, don't let too many entry hazards go up on your side of the field because Spikes damage can stack pretty quickly on Heatran lacking Leftovers. As with any other Heatran set, you should scout for super effective coverage on Pokemon that usually can't do too much damage to Heatran like Mew before attempting to take advantage of them.
Magma Storm is a pretty safe move to use when Heatran makes it onto the field if the opponent has an offensive switch-in like Greninja or Keldeo, since it does decent damage thanks to the Special Attack investment, and the immediate residual damage from Magma Storm can be more helpful than Toxic in the long run. If the opponent has a more durable switch-in that even a Z-Move can't take down like Mantine or Gastrodon, Toxic should be the move of choice instead, as it will cripple said switch-in for the rest of the game. When facing stall, try to bluff Leftovers Heatran by not taking any damage to lure in Mega Sableye and smack it with an Inferno Overdrive after baiting Protect first.
Team Options
========
Unlike more defensively oriented Heatran sets, this one can't afford to switch into the the immense threat that is Tapu Lele, so it's going to need a teammate that can handle Tapu Lele. Other Steel-types like Celesteela and Assault Vest Magearna can act as sturdy switch-ins, with Celesteela also providing a Ground immunity, though it doesn't check Thousand Arrows Zygarde and Gravity Landorus-T. On top of this, they bait Fire-type moves Heatran enjoys coming in on to get a boost. Grass-types have great defensive synergy with Heatran due to the resistances they bring to the table, so Pokemon like Tangrowth and Mega Venusaur are ideal teammates. Another Grass-type that deserves a mention is Tapu Bulu, which, despite not providing as much defensive utility as the former two, can form a formidable offensive core alongside Heatran while giving it passive recovery and halving damage from Earthquake due to Grassy Terrain. Defensive pivots that can switch into threats and bring Heatran onto the field safely like Landorus-T and Assault Vest Magearna are outstanding teammates, as Heatran would normally struggle to get into the game without VoltTurn support and needs a solid defensive backbone to fall back on when forced out. Finally, Pokemon that can deal with offense and clean up after Heatran has done its wallbreaking job such as Ash-Greninja and Choice Scarf Kartana work well with it.
[SET]
name: Specially Defensive
move 1: Lava Plume
move 2: Toxic / Will-O-Wisp
move 3: Protect / Taunt
move 4: Stealth Rock
item: Leftovers
ability: Flash Fire
nature: Calm
evs: 248 HP / 220 SpD / 40 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
========
Lava Plume is chosen as Heatran's Fire-type STAB move due to its high burn chance and decent Base Power. Toxic wears down Heatran's switch-ins, namely specially bulky Water-types that force it out, and is overall a nice move to have on a relatively passive Heatran set. On the other hand, Will-O-Wisp lets it deal with Mega Mawile without having to watch out for Sucker Punch and surprises some switch-ins like Zygarde and Garchomp. Protect lets Heatran regain extra HP from its Leftovers, stack poison damage on a foe hit by Toxic, and scout for super effective coverage. It can also catch Mega Medicham and Mega Lopunny off guard by dodging their High Jump Kick and inflicting recoil. Taunt is an option on this Heatran too despite its lack of offensive presence and its main goal being switching into threats. It annoys walls like Chansey and Mew by preventing them from recovering and potentially even stopping Stealth Rock from some Pokemon like Clefable. This Heatran variant is way bulkier thanks to the Special Defense investment, which gives it even more opportunities to set up Stealth Rock and pressure the opposing team. Another option on Heatran is Earth Power, which can nail opposing Heatran on the switch, though it doesn't acomplish much outside of that.
Set Details
========
The given EV spread and nature maximize Heatran's special bulk with just enough Speed to outpace maximum Speed invested Adamant Mega Mawile. Leftovers is Heatran's only way of recovering its health and has good synergy with Protect because of the extra recovery turns Heatran gets. Flash Fire is Heatran's only ability and provides it with a key Fire immunity.
Usage Tips
========
Never let Heatran take a Knock Off, as it will become fairly easy to wear down without Leftovers recovery. Always scout for the move when facing Pokemon that may carry it like Clefable and Ferrothorn. Use Protect to scout for super effective coverage on Pokemon like Mew, Latios, and Mega Venusaur. This also gives Heatran extra recovery turns from Leftovers, so you can use it against Pokemon that naturally force it out like Choice Specs Ash-Greninja and Keldeo to get extra HP; however, you shouldn't use it against setup sweepers and wallbreakers like Dragon Dance Gyarados and Zygarde because that would just give them an extra turn to set up. Set up Stealth Rock as soon as possible to start stacking residual damage on incoming switch-ins. Lastly, use Toxic or Will-O-Wisp on predicted switches to bulky Water-types like Mantine or offensive Ground-types like Zygarde and Landorus-T.
Team Options
========
Specially defensive Heatran is a good start to a solid defensive backbone that can fit on both bulky offense and balance archetypes. Pokemon that struggle with Tapu Lele and Magearna but can deal with Water-types and Ground-types pair well with Heatran, such as bulky Grass-types like Tangrowth and Mega Venusaur and bulky Water-types like Mantine and Toxapex. Mew and Clefable are solid switch-ins to Mega Medicham and Mega Lopunny, the most relevant Fighting-types in the tier, which threaten Heatran with their super effective STAB moves. They also check some Ground-types like Zygarde and Landorus-T, though Swords Dance Garchomp remains a threat to them. This Heatran set provides little offensive presence if any at all, so it's going to need strong wallbreakers as teammates to apply pressure. Pokemon like Choice Specs Tapu Lele, Swords Dance Tapu Bulu, and Swords Dance Landorus-T work here, with the former two also appreciating Heatran's ability to handle Magearna. Tapu Bulu is a notable partner because of its Grassy Surge ability, which summons Grassy Terrain to give Heatran extra recovery and weaken Earthquake.
[SET]
name: Choice Scarf
move 1: Fire Blast
move 2: Flash Cannon
move 3: Earth Power
move 4: Stone Edge / Will-O-Wisp
item: Choice Scarf
ability: Flash Fire
nature: Timid
evs: 252 SpA / 4 SpD / 252 Spe
[SET COMMENTS]
Moves
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Fire Blast is Heatran's strongest Fire-type move and is used instead of Overheat for consistent damage. Flash Cannon is its Steel-type STAB move and is crucial for hitting Tapu Lele and Tyranitar super effectively. It also has good neutral coverage, which can be useful for late-game cleaning. Earth Power nails opposing Heatran and OHKOes Tapu Koko after Stealth Rock damage. Stone Edge is intended to surprise Mega Charizard Y, which would normally try to weaken Heatran with Focus Blast, and unboosted Volcarona. Alternatively, Will-O-Wisp allows Heatran to check Mega Mawile more effectively, as +2 Sucker Punch OHKOes it after Stealth Rock damage, and also prevents threats like Zygarde and Garchomp from switching in freely, though it's obviously not an ideal move to be locked into. Hidden Power Ice deals with Landorus-T, Zygarde, and Garchomp, three Ground-types that normally force Heatran out, though bear in mind that it needs some prior damage to KO defensive Landorus-T variants and both Zygarde and Garchomp.
Set Details
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Maximum Speed investment with a Timid nature and a Choice Scarf lets Heatran hit a nice Speed tier, outspeeding Mega Lopunny and everything slower. Maximum Special Attack investment maximizes Heatran's damage output in order to have an easier time revenge killing and cleaning up. Flash Fire is Heatran's only available ability and is quite useful for pivoting into a Fire-type move from Mega Charizard Y or opposing Heatran and forcing them out.
Usage Tips
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Take advantage of Heatran's improved Speed tier to revenge kill or force out the likes of Tapu Lele and Tapu Koko. One of the main draws of Choice Scarf Heatran is its ability to pivot into resisted moves like Tapu Lele's Moonblast, Kartana's Leaf Blade, and Tapu Koko's Dazzling Gleam and force them out. If possible, don't reveal Heatran is a Choice Scarf variant because you can use it to your advantage and lure the opponent into staying in with one of the aforementioned Pokemon thinking their Pokemon will be able to outspeed Heatran and knock it out. When facing a boosted Mawile, use Will-O-Wisp on a predicted Sucker Punch to avoid taking damage and neutralize it for the rest of the game. Will-O-Wisp can also be used on a predicted switch to Zygarde or Garchomp, though locking Heatran into it is undesirable.
Team Options
========
Since having two Choice Scarf users on the same team is usually undesirable, Choice Scarf Heatran needs to be paired with defensive Volcarona answers like Mantine and a combination of Shattered Psyche and Savage Spin-Out targets like Toxapex and Mega Latias or Tyranitar. In some cases a secondary Choice Scarf user like Latios or Greninja can be used, though using this item on several Pokemon can be detrimental when trying to keep momentum in a battle. Heatran also needs teammates like Tapu Koko and Swords Dance Tapu Bulu that can deal with Water-types it can't handle Ground- and Water-types like Landorus-T, Zygarde, and Ash-Greninja are still a problem for Heatran as long as they're healthy enough to endure a hit and retaliate with a super effective move. Therefore, switch-ins to these threats like Ferrothorn, Tangrowth, and Landorus-T make for great teammates.
[STRATEGY COMMENTS]
Other Options
=============
Grassium Z can be used alongside Solar Beam for a strong Bloom Doom on offensive Heatran for coverage against Water-types like Gastrodon, Quagsire, and Tapu Fini. Another Z-Move option is Corkscrew Crash from Flash Cannon to deal massive damage to the likes of Tyranitar, Latios, and Mega Sableye as well as hitting Ground-types like Zygarde and Landorus-T on the switch. Offensive Heatran can also opt for a Modest nature for even more damage if outspeeding Tapu Bulu and Magearna isn't deemed necessary. Roar is a situational utility move specially defensive Heatran can run when paired with Spikes setters to shuffle around the opposing team and get residual damage on the whole team.
Checks and Counters
===================
**Water-type Pokemon and Coverage**: Without Bloom Doom, Heatran can't do much to Water-types like Tapu Fini, Gastrodon, and Quagsire, which come in on it and force it out. Offensive Water-types like Ash-Greninja and Keldeo can switch into it a couple of times and force it out too
**Ground-type Pokemon and Coverage**: Ground-types like Landorus-T, Zygarde, and Garchomp force Heatran out pretty easily. Other Pokemon such as Mew, Volcarona, and Venusaur may carry Ground-type coverage moves for Heatran too, so it has to be careful when switching into them.
**Knock Off**: Utility and specially defensive Heatran rely on their Leftovers to regain health and become much more susceptible to residual damage without it. Therefore, they have to watch out for Knock Off from the likes of Clefable and Ferrothorn.
**Fighting-type Pokemon and Coverage**: Fighting-types such as Mega Medicham, Keldeo, and Mega Gallade naturally force Heatran out. Pokemon like Magearna and Mega Charizard Y usually pack Focus Blast for Heatran too.
**Strong Attackers**: As Leftovers is Heatran's only source of recovery, it can't afford to take strong neutral hits like Choice Band Tyranitar's Stone Edge and Choice Band Hoopa's Hyperspace Fury.
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