Xatu
Mystic Pokémon
It’s said that while this Pokémon has the power to predict the future, it’s not powerful enough to change the future it sees.
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Competitive
Strategy Overview
Xatu is the embodiment of Magic Bounce; it is able to keep its team safe from entry hazards and take on the likes of Steelix, Ferroseed, and Miltank outstandingly. In a tier where several top-tier Pokemon are weak to Stealth Rock, the role Xatu provides is extremely valuable, supporting Pokemon like Incineroar and Mega Glalie. Access to Roost, U-turn, and a bunch of utility options let Xatu excel at the pivoting role it's known for, and its typing stands out in giving it a 4x resistance to Fighting-type moves. Another valuable trait is Xatu's solid matchup against stall teams, being able to bounce back status moves like Toxic to targets like Pyukumuku. That being said, hazard setters like Rhydon, Palossand, and Piloswine can threaten it out with their STAB moves, making it necessary to win mind games against them just to keep hazards away. Xatu is also prone to getting trapped by Sneasel and Houndoom, which could make it tough for Xatu's team to fight against hazards. Mold Breaker ignores Xatu's Magic Bounce, allowing Druddigon to set up Stealth Rock against teams that use Xatu as hazard control. Lastly, Xatu's bulk can be rather underwhelming, meaning players have to be very cautious to let it get worn down too fast. Likewise, its typing leaves it vulnerable to common Rock-, Electric-, and Ice-types.
Common Teammates
Competitive data from Smogon University via data.pkmn.cc