Analysis
When looking at Accelgor, one thing stands out: its very high speed stat, hitting 145. This leaves the second fastest Pokémon, Starmie, with its 115 speed stat in the dust. It is so fast that a Timid Accelgor is capable of outspeeding Adamant Beartic with Slush Rush/Swift Swim active (427 vs 398). Accelgor has two different roles in the meta, both being very different.
Accelgor is a great HO lead, because it is gifted with both Spikes and Toxic Spikes. When paired with its high speed and the Focus Sash, Accelgor is always guaranteed at least two layers. Accelgor also has Encore, which allows it to punish greedy setup Pokemon like Swords Dance Beartic. It can also use Final Gambit as a way to give your setup threats a free switchin. However, Accelgor faces stiff competition from Glimmora. This is because thanks to Glimmora’s ability, it can technically setup two layers of hazard in one turn. Glimmora is also able to remove hazards itself via Mortal Spin. However, Accelgor’s Encore abilities and Speed make it a unique niche option over Glimmora.
Accelgor doesn’t always need to be an HO lead. Accelgor can also be a win condition thanks to its serviceable 100 SpAtk. Accelgor can also use Bug Buzz + Throat Spray, which not only gives it +1 SpAtk, it activates Unburden, which doubles its sky-high speed to unbelievable levels. For context, with Unburden active, Modes Accelgor hits a speed stat of 778. However, this set gets completely walled by Clodsire.
Accelgor is a Pokémon you have to be careful with. With its poor 80/40/60 bulk, Accelgor simply cannot take a hit. When using its Unburden set, you need to make sure that Bug Buzz can kill the target, or else Accelgor itself will be killed. You also need to be wary of priority users (252+ Atk Choice Band Adaptability Basculin Aqua Jet vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Accelgor in Rain: 346-408 (114.9 - 135.5%) -- guaranteed OHKO).
Written by OceanicGamer