Analysis
Swampert, especially in the post-Gallade era, has proven itself to be one of the most valuable walls and pivots in the tier. What makes Swampert special, besides its excellent natural bulk (100/90/90), is its great defensive typing and deep movepool. Access to utility moves such as stealth rocks, yawn, toxic, and flip turn allows Swampert to easily support its team members while sponging damage for them. Moreover, a base 110 attack with water/ground stab means Swampert hits hard even without dedicated offensive EVs. Pivoting slowly, by way of the aforementioned flip turn, is arguably where Swampert’s greatest utility lies. Especially because Swampert can under speed a significant proportion of the meta, flip turn on bulky sets has become an invaluable positioning tool, allowing safe switch-ins and ample reaction time. Running flip turn alongside 3 other attacks enables Swampert to utilize an assault vest to bolster its special defense by 50%, something that has become increasingly popular with the rise of powerful special attackers. Torrent, the signature water-starter ability, is typically used on Swampert over its other ability Damp due to the general lack of viable explosion users and the potential for a desirable late game power-up.
Written by Typhon