Pokemon of the Week 11/21/11 Zangoose

Zooming in from Hoenn Region, Zangoose strikes! Wielding powerful claws, with Seviper seeking force, it has potential to be a Sweeper. Let's slash to success.

Ability: Immunity
Type: Normal
Weakness: Fighting
Nature: Adamant

Baste Stats:
Hp-73
Atk-115
Def-60
Sp.Atk-60
Sp.Def-60
Spd-90

Ev Spread: (510)
Hp-18
Atk-246
Def-0
Sp.Atk-0
Sp.Def-0
Spd-246

Moveset Suggestion:
-Swords Dance
-Crush Claw
-X Scissor
-Aerial Ace
Moveset Suggestion: Dig/ Rock Slide/ Poison Jab/ Nigh Slash (Egg)/ Fire Punch (Gen Iv), Ice Punch (Gen Iv), Thunder Punch (Gen Iv)

Moveset Sidenotes:
Zangoose epitomizes the definition of a sweeper: large physical attack Stat, with a large move pool to choose from. When raising one for your team, check your type balances. If you lack a sufficient Electric type attacker, arm Zangoose with "Thunder Punch". "Swords Dance" will enhance all physical moves, but I recommend looking into "Baton Passing" Stat boosts, due to its relatively low defensive Stats. For added attack, attach a Poison Orb to Zangoose with the ability "Toxic Boost". Once it's poisoned, the attack power will be boosted fifty percent!

This hidden ability is no doubt added because of Zangoose's history with Seviper the poisonous snake. Reading its Pokedex entry reveals "It has feuded with Seviper for many generations." I find it awesome, that the Pokemon Company pays close attention to their own story continuity, even down to minor abilities that make sense.

While Zangoose strikes with heavy hitting claws of chaos, it can be struck down simply itself. Be sure to clear your opponent's roster of all fighting types that can one hit KO your pokemon. Thankfully being Normal type, gives it the advantage of sustaining only one type weakness. Zangoose gains you great coverage with its vast move pool. Experiment with moves that work well with the rest of your strategy, just note moves with (Gen Iv) beside them, mean these can only be procured in the fourth generation. This excludes the "Toxic Boost" ability, however it allows you further advanced move options.

Conclusion:
Zangoose has a lot to offer trainers just starting out looking for a strong ally. The versatile movesets for this Poke, plus powerful physical attack, grant it great Sweeping powers. Set the field on fire with this fast and strong striker. Claw your way to victory with Zangoose courage!