Screenshot from MyFullGames
With a new year comes new usage statistics for Pokémon Scarlet and Violet players. From the looks of it, players were very busy using some Pokemon, leaving some huge threats to UU due to lack of use. Even RU at this point features several Pokemon that used to be OU staples.
Major Changes to Smogon Format Levels for Pokémon Scarlet and Violet
The biggest headline to come out of the recent level changes is the following Scarlet and Violet Pokémon dropping from OU to UU:
- tyrannize
- baxcalibur
- lokix
- Charizard
- Maushold
- Idem
- orthworm
Most of these Pokemon were seen as some of the best when Generation IX was first introduced. However, at the end of the day, they had a lot of trouble dealing with what has now become several elite threats of the current OU level.
For example, Baxcalibur is a phenomenal Dragon Dance sweeper on paper. However, he has to compete with Roaring Moon, Dragapult, and Dragonite in OU. As a result, it’s hard to find a reason to run Baxcalibur.
Related: Most Toxic Pokemon to deal with
Tyranitar also made a name for itself as one of the best Dragapult checks (as well as a Chi Yu check). However, the popularity of Kingambit means that not many teams fight with Dragapult now.
Since the meta is changing, everything not currently in UU has been moved to RU. Many players are surprised by the sheer number of giants that have been relegated to the UK due to this move, including Weavile, Slowbro, Magnezone, Blissey, and Chansey.
These were all higher levels just a generation ago. However, they have all lost utility in some way, between Slowbro losing Scald and Weavile losing a strong dark-type STAB.
Do you want more Pokémon Scarlet and Violet guides? MyFullGames has you covered with 11 Best Areas to Catch High Level Pokemon in Scarlet & Violet