Introduction
Azumarill, the Water/Fairy-type Pokémon, is a fan-favorite that has made its mark in various Pokémon games since its introduction in Generation II. With an adorable design and a robust skill set, Azumarill has evolved from a cute companion into a formidable presence in competitive Pokémon battles. This article explores Azumarill’s capabilities, its strategic applications in competitive gameplay, and why trainers should consider incorporating it into their battle strategies.
Azumarill’s Background
Azumarill is known as the Aqua Rabbit Pokémon, often characterized by its rounded body and large, floppy ears. Evolving from Marill when the latter is leveled up with high friendship, Azumarill possesses a wealth of intriguing abilities and strategic possibilities, particularly due to its unique dual typing.
Types and Abilities
1. Dual Typing: Water/Fairy
One of the most significant features of Azumarill is its dual Water and Fairy typings. This combination offers several advantages, including:
- Resistance to Common Types: Azumarill is resistant to Fire, Water, Dark, Bug, Steel, and Fairy-type moves. This makes it a versatile addition to many teams.
- Super Effective Coverage: Azumarill deals super-effective damage against Dragon, Fighting, and Dark types, positioning it to counter several threats in a competitive environment.
2. Abilities
Azumarill can have one of two abilities:
- Thick Fat: This ability provides resistance to Ice and Fire-type moves, further enhancing Azumarill’s tank capabilities.
- Sap Sipper: This ability allows Azumarill to raise its Attack stat by one stage when hit by a Grass-type move, turning an unfavorable situation into a beneficial one.
Base Stats
Understanding Azumarill’s stats is critical for maximizing its effectiveness in battles. Below is its base stat distribution:
- HP: 100
- Attack: 50
- Defense: 80
- Special Attack: 60
- Special Defense: 80
- Speed: 50
The high HP contributes significantly to Azumarill’s tanky nature, while its Attack stat can be misleading at only 50. However, when Azumarill is equipped with specific items and sets, its damage output can be surprisingly substantial.
Competitive Sets and Strategies
Azumarill’s utility in competitive battles stems from its versatility and the various sets trainers can build around it. Here we cover some of the most popular competitive sets.
1. Azumarill as a Wall and Support Pokémon
Set:
- Nature: Impish or Careful
- Item: Assault Vest
- EVs: 252 HP / 252 Def / 4 SpD
- Abilities: Thick Fat
- Moves:
- Aqua Jet
- Play Rough
- Belly Drum
- Knock Off
Strategy:
This set focuses on maximizing Azumarill’s bulk while still allowing it to hit back with decent damage. The Assault Vest boosts Special Defense, making it challenging for opponents to take down Azumarill with special moves. Aqua Jet provides priority, Play Rough is its Fairy STAB, and Knock Off removes items from potential threats. Belly Drum can be a game-changer if it’s safe to use, allowing Azumarill to hit exceptionally hard after sacrificing half of its HP.
2. Azumarill as a Belly Drum Sweeper
Set:
- Nature: Adamant or Jolly
- Item: Sitrus Berry or Choice Band
- EVs: 252 Atk / 252 Spe / 4 HP
- Abilities: Sap Sipper
- Moves:
- Belly Drum
- Aqua Jet
- Play Rough
- Liquidation
Strategy:
This Azumarill set aims to maximize offensive capabilities through effective sweeping. By using Belly Drum, Azumarill sacrifices half its HP to maximize its Attack stat to +6. Aqua Jet provides a priority move to pick off threats, while Play Rough and Liquidation provide powerful attack options. When using Sitrus Berry, Azumarill can regain health after using Belly Drum, giving it an opportunity to survive longer against retaliation.
3. Azumarill as a Revenge Killer
Set:
- Nature: Adamant
- Item: Choice Band
- EVs: 252 Atk / 252 Spe / 4 HP
- Abilities: Thick Fat or Sap Sipper
- Moves:
- Aqua Jet
- Play Rough
- Liquidation
- Knock Off
Strategy:
As a revenge killer, Azumarill’s priority Aqua Jet allows it to take out opponents that are low on HP while its high Attack from Choice Band provides a reliable means to knock out stronger Pokémon. This means it should be strategically brought into combat when opponents are weakened or distracted, allowing it to capitalize on its strengths.
Team Synergies
To get the most out of Azumarill, it’s essential to consider Pokémon that can synergize well alongside it. Here are a few Pokémon that work particularly well with Azumarill in battle:
1. Heatran
Heatran covers Azumarill’s vulnerability to Steel and Poison attacks, allowing Azumarill to freely switch in and target threats with Water and Fairy-type moves. Additionally, Azumarill’s Water typing provides resistance to Fire-type moves, creating a balanced defensive pairing.
2. Gardevoir
Gardevoir benefits from Azumarill’s bulk, allowing it to set up moves like Calm Mind. Meanwhile, Azumarill can handle Dark types that threaten Gardevoir. Their combined offensive threats can unsettle opponents and maintain pressure.
3. Bisharp
Bisharp’s Dark typing takes out Psychic and Ghost opponents threatening Azumarill. Its ability to knock off items can create opportunities for Azumarill when it sweeps with its powerful moves.
4. Ferrothorn
Ferrothorn provides entry hazards that can wear down opponents, making it easier for Azumarill to perform a late-game sweep. Additionally, Ferrothorn can absorb Electric moves, while Azumarill can deal with Fire-types threatening Ferrothorn.
Common Counters to Azumarill
Although Azumarill has many strengths, several Pokémon can effectively counter it in battle. Trainers should be aware of these threats to evaluate their strategies effectively.
1. Ferrothorn
Ferrothorn resists Fairy and Water-type moves and can set up hazards while attacking with moves like Power Whip or Gyro Ball. Additionally, it can use Leech Seed to gradually wear down Azumarill.
2. Zapdos
Zapdos, a powerful Flying/Electric-type, can take advantage of its immunity to Azumarill’s Water-type moves. It can hit back with Electric moves, and its high Speed can outspeed Azumarill.
3. Grimsnarl
Grimsnarl’s Dark typing allows it to resist Azumarill’s Fairy-type moves. Additionally, Grimsnarl can set up Reflect or Light Screen, minimizing Azumarill’s damage output and potentially retaliating with Snarl or Play Rough.
4. Clefable
Clefable is another Fairy-type Pokémon that can take on Azumarill, particularly if it utilizes a defensive set. It can effectively wall Azumarill’s attacks and respond with powerful moves like Moonblast.
Conclusion
Azumarill’s cuddly appearance hides a Pokémon capable of shifting the course of battle. With its unique dual typing, impressive HP, and diverse movesets, it is a versatile choice for trainers looking to add a combination of support, tanking, or sweeping capabilities to their team. Understanding its strengths, weaknesses, and the impact of team synergy can help trainers make the most of Azumarill’s potential in competitive battles.
Quiz: Exploring Azumarill
Here are 50 questions about Azumarill, including multiple-choice answers with one correct answer and a brief explanation.
What type is Azumarill?
A) Water/Fire
B) Water/Fairy
C) Fairy/Fighting
D) Water/Ground
Correct Answer: B) Water/Fairy
Explanation: Azumarill is a Water and Fairy-type Pokémon.
What is Azumarill’s primary role in competitive battles?
A) Wall
B) Sweeper
C) Support
D) All of Above
Correct Answer: D) All of Above
Explanation: Azumarill can effectively serve as a wall, sweeper, or support Pokémon.
Which ability boosts Azumarill’s Special Defense?
A) Sap Sipper
B) Thick Fat
C) Liquidation
D) Belly Drum
Correct Answer: B) Thick Fat
Explanation: Thick Fat gives Azumarill resistance to Ice and Fire-type moves, increasing its tanking capabilities.
What move allows Azumarill to get a priority attack?
A) Knock Off
B) Aqua Jet
C) Liquidation
D) Play Rough
Correct Answer: B) Aqua Jet
Explanation: Aqua Jet is a priority move, allowing Azumarill to attack first.
What is Azumarill’s base HP stat?
A) 50
B) 60
C) 100
D) 80
Correct Answer: C) 100
Explanation: Azumarill has a high base HP of 100, making it quite tanky.
Which among the following Pokémon counters Azumarill effectively?
A) Zapdos
B) Gardevoir
C) Heatran
D) Ferrothorn
Correct Answer: D) Ferrothorn
Explanation: Ferrothorn resists Azumarill’s Water and Fairy moves and can hit back with Steel or Grass-type moves.
Which item is commonly used to maximize Azumarill’s Special Defense?
A) Life Orb
B) Sitrus Berry
C) Assault Vest
D) Choice Band
Correct Answer: C) Assault Vest
Explanation: The Assault Vest boosts Azumarill’s Special Defense, enhancing its durability against special attacks.
What is the maximum increased Attack stat Azumarill can achieve through Belly Drum?
A) +4
B) +6
C) +3
D) +5
Correct Answer: B) +6
Explanation: Belly Drum maximizes the Attack stat by raising it to +6 at the cost of half its health.
What move can Azumarill use to remove opponent’s held items?
A) Liquidation
B) Play Rough
C) Knock Off
D) Belly Drum
Correct Answer: C) Knock Off
Explanation: Knock Off is a Dark-type move that can remove items from opponents.
Azumarill evolution requires what condition?
A) Level up
B) Trade
C) High friendship
D) Special item
Correct Answer: C) High friendship
Explanation: Marill evolves into Azumarill when it reaches high friendship levels.
Which secondary type adds to Azumarill’s resistances?
A) Grass
B) Dark
C) Fairy
D) Fire
Correct Answer: C) Fairy
Explanation: The Fairy typing provides additional resistances.
What move is NOT a STAB (Same Type Attack Bonus) move for Azumarill?
A) Aqua Jet
B) Liquidation
C) Play Rough
D) Flare Blitz
Correct Answer: D) Flare Blitz
Explanation: Flare Blitz is a Fire-type move and not applicable as a STAB move for Azumarill.
What level does Marill evolve to Azumarill?
A) Level 18
B) Level 20
C) Level 22
D) Level 25
Correct Answer: A) Level 18
Explanation: Marill evolves into Azumarill at level 18 with high friendship.
Which type does Azumarill have resistance against due to its typing?
A) Ground
B) Fighting
C) Electric
D) Psychic
Correct Answer: B) Fighting
Explanation: Azumarill resists Fighting-type moves thanks to its Fairy typing.
Which ability can Azumarill use to gain an attack boost from attacked Grass moves?
A) Thick Fat
B) Sap Sipper
C) Shadow Tag
D) Marvel Scale
Correct Answer: B) Sap Sipper
Explanation: Sap Sipper triggers an Attack boost upon receiving a Grass-type move.
In competitive battles, which role is Azumarill often set for?
A) Support
B) Tank
C) Sweeper
D) All of the Above
Correct Answer: D) All of the Above
Explanation: Azumarill can effectively adapt to various roles in battle, contributing to team dynamics.
Which offensive move can Azumarill learn that deals Water-type damage?
A) Hydro Pump
B) Surf
C) Waterfall
D) All of the Above
Correct Answer: D) All of the Above
Explanation: All of these moves are Water-type and can be learned by Azumarill.
What disadvantage does Azumarill face against Ferrothorn?
A) High Speed
B) Type Advantage
C) Strong Special Defense
D) Low HP
Correct Answer: B) Type Advantage
Explanation: Ferrothorn resists both of Azumarill’s STAB attacks.
In what generation was Azumarill introduced?
A) Generation I
B) Generation II
C) Generation III
D) Generation IV
Correct Answer: B) Generation II
Explanation: Azumarill was introduced in Generation II alongside its pre-evolutions.
Which item could be used with Azumarill for an Attack boost?
A) Assault Vest
B) Choice Specs
C) Choice Band
D) Leftovers
Correct Answer: C) Choice Band
Explanation: Choice Band boosts Azumarill’s Attack stat significantly, increasing its damage output.
Which move is most effective against Azumarill?
A) Fairy Wind
B) Grass Knot
C) Water Gun
D) Flame Charge
Correct Answer: B) Grass Knot
Explanation: Grass-type moves are super effective against Azumarill’s Water typing.
Azumarill is particularly good against which type of Pokémon?
A) Steel
B) Dragon
C) Grass
D) Electric
Correct Answer: B) Dragon
Explanation: Azumarill’s Fairy-type moves are super effective against Dragon-type Pokémon.
How would Azumarill perform against other Fairy types?
A) Super Effective
B) Neutral Damage
C) Not Very Effective
D) Immune
Correct Answer: B) Neutral Damage
Explanation: Fairy-types take neutral damage from each other.
What is significant about Azumarill’s Attack stat when compared to its HP in strategic contexts?
A) It is balanced
B) It is a trap
C) It is low
D) It is deceptively high
Correct Answer: D) It is deceptively high
Explanation: Azumarill’s Attack stat may appear low, but with proper strategies and items, it can hit hard.
When using Azumarill with Belly Drum, what is a recommended item to regain health?
A) Choice Band
B) Sitrus Berry
C) Normal Gem
D) Leftovers
Correct Answer: B) Sitrus Berry
Explanation: Sitrus Berry provides Azumarill health recovery immediately after using Belly Drum.
Which Pokémon can best synergize with Azumarill to cover its weaknesses?
A) Gardevoir
B) Machamp
C) Dragapult
D) Togekiss
Correct Answer: A) Gardevoir
Explanation: Gardevoir covers Azumarill’s weaknesses and complements its Fairy typing.
What playstyle does Azumarill often encourage in teams?
A) Offensive Only
B) Defensive and Offensive
C) Hyper Offense
D) Stall
Correct Answer: B) Defensive and Offensive
Explanation: Azumarill’s versatility allows it to balance between defensive support and offensive sweeper.
What does Azumarill’s ability to suddenly sweep signify in competitive play?
A) Low Damage
B) Setup Potential
C) Complete Risk
D) Predictable Moves
Correct Answer: B) Setup Potential
Explanation: Azumarill can set up with Belly Drum and become a heavy hitter, which could turn the tides in battle.
What role does Azumarill typically uphold in metagame strategies?
A) Support
B) Tank
C) Both A and B
D) Sweeper
Correct Answer: C) Both A and B
Explanation: Azumarill can effectively serve as both tank and support in various competitive strategies.
Azumarill’s Aqua Jet allows it to outspeed what kind of threats?
A) Priority users
B) Faster Pokémon with low HP
C) Opponents with immunity
D) Defensive Pokémon
Correct Answer: B) Faster Pokémon with low HP
Explanation: Aqua Jet allows Azumarill to pick off weakened threats regardless of its lower Speed.
What niche role can Azumarill achieve alongside entry hazards?
A) Complete Shutdown
B) Slow Tank
C) Revenge Killer
D) Lead
Correct Answer: C) Revenge Killer
Explanation: Azumarill can come in after entry hazards take a toll on the opposing team, functioning as a revenge killer.
What is the primary reason trainers utilize Azumarill in their teams?
A) Speed
B) Offensive Versatility
C) Great Abilities
D) Type Coverage
Correct Answer: D) Type Coverage
Explanation: Azumarill’s dual typing offers significant advantages in coverage against various threats.
What is the Bidirectional typing advantage of Azumarill?
A) Increases Weaknesses
B) Negates Certain Attacks
C) Balances Offenses
D) Covers Different Channels
Correct Answer: C) Balances Offenses
Explanation: Azumarill’s typing balances its offensive capabilities, allowing it to deal with various kinds of opponents.
What is the key to maximizing Azumarill’s sweeping potential?
A) High Speed
B) Appropriate Team Supports
C) Low Defense
D) Special Attack Focus
Correct Answer: B) Appropriate Team Supports
Explanation: With the right team support, Azumarill can take advantage of its opportunities to sweep effectively.
What happens to Azumarill if it faces a strong Electric move?
A) Immune
B) Super Effective Hit
C) No Effect
D) Normal Damage
Correct Answer: B) Super Effective Hit
Explanation: Electric moves are super effective against Water-types like Azumarill.
What item can boost Azumarill’s offensive power without trade-offs?
A) Expert Belt
B) Sitrus Berry
C) Assault Vest
D) Choice Scarf
Correct Answer: A) Expert Belt
Explanation: Expert Belt boosts super-effective moves, providing an offensive advantage without locking Azumarill into one move.
What is a major drawback to using its Belly Drum set?
A) Requires No Setup
B) High Health Requirement
C) Risks Low Defense
D) Unpredictable Use
Correct Answer: B) High Health Requirement
Explanation: Belly Drum sacrifices half of its health, making it a risky play if Azumarill is at low HP.
In what tier is Azumarill often placed in competitive play?
A) Ubers
B) Underused
C) NeverUsed
D) Standard
Correct Answer: B) Underused
Explanation: Azumarill often appears in Underused (UU) tiers due to its balance of efficiency and usability.
What role does Azumarill play concerning Dragon-type threats?
A) Resist
B) Neutral Hit
C) Weakness
D) Immune
Correct Answer: A) Resist
Explanation: Azumarill’s Fairy typing resists Dragon moves.
What is crucial for effectively utilizing Azumarill in battles?
A) High Speed
B) Proper Team Composition
C) Risk-taking moves
D) Objectively high Attack
Correct Answer: B) Proper Team Composition
Explanation: Team synergy and composition play a significant role in Azumarill’s competitive efficiency.
Which Pokémon resonates with Azumarill for its ability to take Grass moves?
A) Gardevoir
B) Ferrothorn
C) Excadrill
D) Earthquake
Correct Answer: B) Ferrothorn
Explanation: Ferrothorn can absorb Grass-type moves, supporting Azumarill.
What determines Azumarill’s position as an offensive threat?
A) Priority Moves
B) Unique Typing
C) High Base Stats
D) Ultimate Strategy
Correct Answer: B) Unique Typing
Explanation: Its unique Water/Fairy typing allows Azumarill to counter many threats effectively.
Which aspect boosts Azumarill’s chances of achieving a successful Belly Drum?
A) Using a setup Pokémon
B) An early game ledge advantage
C) Distracting threats
D) Speed Control
Correct Answer: C) Distracting threats
Explanation: Distracting can force opponents to overlook Azumarill, focusing on other threats, allowing for a successful setup.
Azumarill can operate as a strong partner alongside which of the following Pokémon?
A) Politoed
B) Lugia
C) Froslass
D) Chandelure
Correct Answer: A) Politoed
Explanation: Politoed supports Azumarill with Rain // moves, enhancing its Water-type attacks.
What method does Azumarill often use to incapacitate Pokémon?
A) Set up entry hazards
B) Take out with priority moves
C) Fence with supportive tactics
D) Big damage moves
Correct Answer: B) Take out with priority moves
Explanation: Azumarill often utilizes Aqua Jet to finish off weakened opponents.
What is critical to be aware of while building a team with Azumarill?
A) Speed and Priority
B) All-encompassing captures
C) Exclusive stat focus
D) All of the Above
Correct Answer: A) Speed and Priority
Explanation: Ensuring that defenses are solid enables consistent feels on team balance and offense without overlooking Azumarill’s speed and priority.
Which defensive strategy can aim to keep Azumarill equivalent to active threats?
A) Special Bulk
B) Trap and Switch
C) Setup Attack
D) Hazard Damage
Correct Answer: A) Special Bulk
Explanation: Focusing on defensive strategies facilitates keeping Azumarill active against threats.
What countermeasures should be prepared for Azumarill matching up against Fairy-type opponents?
A) Setup Turbos
B) Attack Boosters
C) Predictive Moves
D) No Response
Correct Answer: C) Predictive Moves
Explanation: Utilizing effective prediction enables trainers to outsmart opposing Fairy threats.
What is a tactical necessity when unlocking Azumarill’s offensive potential?
A) Setup Hazards
B) Health Regeneration
C) Defensive Centering
D) Strategic Play targeting
Correct Answer: D) Strategic Play targeting
Explanation: Targeting on-demand options during a match reveals Azumarill’s ability to entice opponents.
- Which competitive trait best exemplifies Azumarill’s role in hyperspeed teams?
A) Defensive Plays
B) Flux-Rewinders
C) Balanced Break
D) Priority Plays
Correct Answer: D) Priority Plays
Explanation: Priority plays characterize Azumarill’s role within fast-paced teams.
Conclusion
Azumarill is a multifaceted Pokémon that can fulfill various roles in competitive battles. By comprehensively understanding its abilities, strengths, weaknesses, and synergies with other Pokémon, trainers can unlock the full potential of this Water/Fairy-type and leverage it to their advantage in competitive play. Whether as a wall, a fierce sweeper, or a supportive ally, Azumarill’s diverse skill set ensures it remains a strategic choice for trainers aiming to dominate the battlefield.
