Mastering VGC 2017: Strategies and Archetypes

VGC 2017 featured the Alola Region Pokémon. Battles were held in the Double Battle format, prohibiting Mega Stones and introducing Z-Moves, enhancing the strategic depth and variety in team archetypes.

The AFK (Arcanine, Tapu Fini, Kartana) core dominated VGC 2017. This trio synergized through Intimidate, Misty Terrain support, and high-speed offensive pressure, creating a versatile foundation for many successful teams.

Trick Room teams excelled with slow, hard-hitting Pokémon like Porygon2 and Gigalith. They flipped the speed dynamic, overpowering common hyper-offensive strategies, providing a strategic counter to the prevalent meta-game.

Weather teams, specifically around Torkoal and Pelipper, showcased the power of environmental control. Eruption under sun and Water Spout under rain were devastating moves that shaped team building decisions.

The Eevee Evolution strategy was a wild card. With Eevee's Extreme Evoboost and Baton Pass, it could grant a partner colossal stat boosts, leading to unpredictable and game-changing plays.

The Alolan Guardian Deities - Tapus brought unique terrain effects that heavily influenced team synergy. Their presence was almost mandatory, and they often dictated the flow of battle with their terrain-based strategies.

Mudsdale, often overlooked, had a niche as a physical tank with its ability Stamina. When paired with a supportive partner like Clefairy's Friend Guard, it could become an unexpected and resilient force.