Summary

Heracross is among the most unique Pokemon in ADV draft, with a unique stab combination of Bug and Fighting that makes it the most immediately threatening mon in the format and a variety of sets that can really catch the opponent by surprise. Of course, Heracross’ distinguishing feature is its monstrous STAB boosted Megahorn, a move with an effective base power of 180 (240 with swarm active) which, coming off Heracross’ 125 attack stat, melts even neutral targets. This move (which is almost never droppable) can also be complemented with Brick break, Earthquake, Hidden Power Ghost, Rock Slide, and the rarer Hidden Power Flying or Return/Double-Edge, which are useful for Fighters and Weezing respectively. Speaking of which, Weezing, Salamence and Gyarados are Heracross’ worst match-ups, however it can be worth being brought regardless. While matchups such as Alakazam, Charizard and Moltres may seem bleak at first, they’re actually quite manageable. Alakazam cannot OHKO bulky Heracross while Heracross always OHKOs even without investment. The Fire-Flying Pokemon, on the other hand, get easily dispatched by Substitute + Rock Slide sets which, when paired with a Salac Berry, allow Megahorn and Swarm to be quite effective.

Heracross' main set archetypes are, in order of viability:

1. Choice Band with Guts - Good when you’re struggling with coverage, when you need immediate power, or when you are against a slow team.
2. 2-3 Attacks + Substitute/Endure with Leftovers/Salac Berry - Useful when you need many coverage moves, especially when you need them to hit frail mons such as Gengar or Charizard. Can drop an attack for Swords Dance for a less broadly viable option which is good in matchups where Heracross can OHKO everything reliably after a boost, or use Reversal with Endure and Salac Berry. Endure sets also get extra viability in ADV Draft due to the lack of widespread Sand. You can also use Substitute to lower yourself into Salac range, but this is very niche.

Despite all of this, Heracross has 1 fatal flaw (aside from Megahorn’s accuracy), and that is that it requires a competent pilot since bringing the wrong set or bringing it in at the wrong time during the match can make you lose on the spot.

Summary written by Tratufo

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