Infernape

Infernape is a menacing addition to offensive teams with its solid Speed tier, powerful dual STAB moves, and access to U-turn. Said STAB combination is almost unresisted in the tier and allows Infernape to prey on staples like Scizor, Heatran, Blissey and Magnezone. Infernape is a very good pivot that can pressure checks like Latias and Starmie with U-turn, form a great VoltTurn core with Volt Switch users such as Rotom-W and Magnezone, and bring frailer attackers like Weavile, Nidoking, and Alakazam in safely. Infernape also packs great options like Stealth Rock, Mach Punch for priority against Weavile and Aqua Jet Crawdaunt, Thunder Punch for Water-types like Starmie and Azumarill, and Grass Knot to break through Gastrodon and Quagsire. However, the combination of Infernape’s poor bulk, vulnerability to entry hazards, and drawbacks on its main STAB moves leave it lacking in longevity, often being worn down fairly quickly and unable to switch into non-resisted attacks. Its Speed tier, while solid, leaves it outpaced by key threats like Latias, Starmie, and Alakazam, in addition to being vulnerable to priority users like Extreme Speed Lucario and Aqua Jet Azumarill.