Heliolisk

Normal

Heliolisk is very underrated on Normal teams; however, this Pokemon possesses several strong points that make it viable. Its impressive base 109 Speed stat allows it to outspeed Pokemon such as Garchomp and Landorus and to easily gain momentum against opposing Pokemon that are unable to outspeed it with Volt Switch, escaping situations where it would otherwise be KOed by a threat. Heliolisk's part Electric typing allows it check Flying- and Water-types, both of which are prevalent in the Monotype metagame, which makes matchups easier for Normal. Its base 109 Special Attack stat gives it a great offensive presence, allowing it to hit hard with even its coverage moves. Heliolisk has access to great coverage moves such as Grass Knot and Focus Blast, allowing it to check types such as Dark, Ground, Ice, Normal, and Steel. Heliolisk is gifted with the wonderful ability Dry Skin, which grants it immunity to and therefore a free switch into any Water-type moves.

Unfortunately, Heliolisk has paper-thin defenses, making it vulnerable to any hard-hitting attacks. Its Electric / Normal typing comes with a cost: while being immune to Ghost-type attacks, Heliolisk stacks another Fighting-type weakness on Normal teams. Heliolisk faces a lot of competition from Mega Pidgeot and Meloetta, as they both have higher Special Attack stats and wider movepools. However, Heliolisk is better at pivoting, checks Flying- and Water-types, and survives a Bullet Punch from Mega Scizor after a Swords Dance boost.