Why is Sludge Wave so popular in SheerOrb Nidoking?

Question

I mean, it has a pretty awful SpA with 85 - although it's still acceptable. Why not poison Jab? I'm a dunce about competitive pls don't laugh ;-;

Comments

What format/rules are you asking about?

---

I never used or seen Nidoking on any formats other than RandBats (Prolly bc I only play around AG and OU), and I often get a SheerOrb-Sludge Wave King on the randomized team

Answer 1

It hits harder

Despite having weak special attack, Nidoking actually hits harder with Sludge Wave compared to Poison Jab.

252 SpA Life Orb Sheer Force Nidoking Sludge Wave vs. 0 HP / 0 SpD Mew: 199-234 (58.3 - 68.6%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

252 Atk Life Orb Sheer Force Nidoking Poison Jab vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Mew: 187-222 (54.8 - 65.1%) -- guaranteed 2HKO

Not only that, but it's coverage is also more powerful.

252 SpA Life Orb Sheer Force Nidoking Flamethrower vs. 0 HP / 0 SpD Mew: 125-148 (36.6 - 43.4%) -- guaranteed 3HKO

252 Atk Life Orb Sheer Force Nidoking Fire Punch vs. 0 HP / 0 Def Mew: 117-139 (34.3 - 40.7%) -- guaranteed 3HKO

Going Special also has the benefit of not being crippled by burns or triggering on-hit effects like Rocky Helmet. Physical Nidoking also doesn't have Ground STAB boosted by Sheer Force.

Comments

I think that a lack of Ground STAB that is boosted also contributes.

---

I actually edited that in seconds before your comment lol

---

Oh dang lol.  Sniped