Best Archaludon Builds and Strategies for Pokemon Scarlet and Violet VGC Regulation H

Introducing a fresh addition to the Pokemon lore, Archaludon emerges as a notable creature in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet. This evolution of Duraludon enhances its predecessor in numerous ways while preserving its Dragon and Steel types. Designed with set-up strategies in mind, it is particularly effective in double battles, proving to be a strong contender within the current Pokemon VGC regulations.

With Pokemon Scarlet and Violet’s Regulation H being the most user-friendly format this generation, many players might be interested in diving into competitive play. Consequently, Archaludon could be a key addition to their teams.

Below is a comprehensive guide on utilizing Archaludon effectively in the VGC format of Pokemon Scarlet and Violet.

Why Incorporate Archaludon in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet VGC?

Archaludon excels as a damage dealer in rain-focused teams (Image via The Pokemon Company)

Currently, Archaludon stands out as one of the most favored creatures among players competing in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet VGC Regulation H matches. Its impressive bulk, balanced offensive and defensive typing, and compatibility with rain strategies, particularly through its signature attack Electro Shot, make it a formidable presence. Additionally, Archaludon showcases remarkable versatility, allowing for various builds tailored to different team setups.

Electro Shot boasts a powerful base of 130 and is an Electric-type move that usually requires a turn to charge, unless Archaludon is utilizing a Power Herb or rain is active in battle. It can also leverage Electric Tera Typing to eliminate its Fighting weakness and amplify the damage from Electro Shot.

Optimal Strategies for Archaludon in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet VGC

Although Archaludon thrives on rain teams, it seamlessly fits into other team archetypes as well. With a speed stat of 85, it can be integrated into both Tailwind and Trick Room strategies with adjusted investment. Trainers typically employ it alongside Draco Meteor, a powerful Dragon-type move known for lowering the user’s Special Attack.

The ideal partner for Archaludon is Pelipper, which activates rain with its Drizzle ability. Pelipper supports Archaludon with access to Tailwind and Wide Guard, creating a perfect synergy. Alternatively, pairing Archaludon with Incineroar allows players to focus on debilitating foes rather than directly enhancing Archaludon’s abilities.

Top Build for Archaludon in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet VGC

Archaludon is predominantly featured on rain teams (Image via The Pokemon Company)

Here’s the most favored build that competitive players use for Archaludon in the VGC format of Pokemon Scarlet and Violet:

Nature: Timid (+ Speed, – Attack)
Held Item: Power Herb or Assault Vest
Tera Type: Electric
Ability: Sturdy
Effort Values: 252 Special Attack, 252 Speed, 4 Special Defense
Moves: Electro Shot, Draco Meteor, Flash Cannon, Protect (Body Press)

The choice between Power Herb and Assault Vest hinges on whether the team strategy revolves around rain. If rain is not a critical element, players might prefer the Power Herb to enable a guaranteed initial use of Electro Shot without the charging delay.

On teams that do utilize rain, the Assault Vest is advisable, significantly bolstering Archaludon’s Special Defense, which is its weakest stat. In this scenario, players should opt for Body Press instead of Protect, as the Assault Vest restricts the use of status moves like Protect.

Countering Archaludon in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet VGC

Since Archaludon often teams up with partners immune to Ground-type moves, such as Pelipper and Dragonite, it’s easy to overlook its vulnerability to that element. The Sturdy ability adds a layer of difficulty since it prevents Archaludon from being knocked out in one hit, ensuring it can retaliate strongly before potentially falling.

To bypass redirectors like Amoongus, moves such as Earthquake are highly effective. Additionally, Headlong Rush and Earth Power can target Archaludon directly and inflict substantial damage. However, taking it down swiftly necessitates a concerted effort, requiring opponents to dedicate multiple attacks to Archaludon, which may relieve pressure from its teammates, posing a bigger challenge.

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