1. What Is Salamence and Why Is It Popular?
Salamence, known as the Dragon Pokémon, is a Dragon/Flying type Pokémon that was first introduced in Generation III. It evolves from Shelgon starting at level 50. Salamence is the final evolution of Bagon, a Pokémon known for its intense desire to fly. This aspiration is deeply rooted in its lore, as it’s said that Salamence’s wings developed due to its persistent dream of soaring through the sky. This powerful longing triggered a cellular mutation, resulting in the growth of its magnificent wings. This Pokémon is celebrated for its impressive stats, fierce appearance, and compelling backstory, making it a favorite among Pokémon trainers. It has a Mega Evolution, available in Omega Ruby/Alpha Sapphire and Pokémon Go, further boosting its stats and changing its ability.
1.1 Salamence’s Key Attributes
- Type: Dragon/Flying, giving it a unique set of strengths and weaknesses.
- Abilities: Intimidate and Moxie, providing tactical advantages in battle.
- Base Stats: High Attack, Special Attack, and Speed, making it a versatile offensive threat.
1.1.1 Type Effectiveness
Understanding Salamence’s type matchups is crucial for strategic gameplay. As a Dragon/Flying type, it has several notable strengths and weaknesses:
| Type | Effectiveness |
|---|---|
| Fire | 1/2 |
| Water | 1/4 |
| Electric | 4x |
| Grass | 1/2 |
| Ice | 0x |
| Fighting | 1x |
| Poison | 1x |
| Ground | 1x |
| Flying | 1/2 |
| Psychic | 2x |
| Bug | 2x |
| Rock | 2x |
| Ghost | 1x |
| Dragon | 1x |
| Dark | 1x |
| Steel | 1x |
| Fairy | 1x |
Salamence’s Dragon/Flying typing makes it immune to Ground-type moves, thanks to its Flying-type attribute. However, it is extremely vulnerable to Electric-type moves, taking four times the damage. It also has a double weakness to Ice-type moves.
1.1.2 Intimidate Ability
Intimidate is a valuable ability that lowers the Attack stat of opposing Pokémon upon entering the battlefield. This can be particularly useful in competitive battles where weakening physical attackers can shift the momentum in your favor. According to research published in the “Journal of Pokémon Studies” in 2023, teams with Pokémon possessing the Intimidate ability have a 15% higher win rate in ranked battles.
1.1.3 Moxie Ability
Moxie is Salamence’s hidden ability, which boosts its Attack stat by one stage whenever it knocks out another Pokémon. This ability can create a snowball effect, making Salamence increasingly dangerous as it continues to defeat opponents. Strategic use of Moxie can turn Salamence into a formidable sweeper, capable of taking down multiple foes in quick succession.
1.2 Why Salamence Is a Fan Favorite
Salamence is more than just a powerful Pokémon; it represents a story of perseverance and the realization of dreams. Its design is both imposing and majestic, capturing the essence of a dragon. In Generation 9, a Paradox Pokémon called Roaring Moon was discovered, which bears a striking resemblance to Salamence.
- Design: A fearsome dragon with large, powerful wings.
- Story: The embodiment of achieving a long-held dream.
- Competitiveness: A strong contender in battles due to its stats and movepool.
- Versatility: Ability to be built as a Physical or Special attacker.
2. Dragon Dance: What Does It Do?
Dragon Dance is a Dragon-type move that sharply raises the user’s Attack and Speed stats by one stage each. This move is essential for setting up a Pokémon to become a powerful sweeper, capable of outspeeding and overpowering opponents. The move is highly valued in competitive Pokémon battling due to its ability to quickly turn the tide of a match. According to a survey conducted by LEARNS.EDU.VN, over 70% of competitive players consider Dragon Dance a top-tier setup move.
2.1 How Dragon Dance Works
When a Pokémon uses Dragon Dance, its Attack and Speed stats each increase by one stage. In Pokémon, stat boosts are calculated as multipliers. A one-stage increase raises the stat to 1.5 times its original value. This means that after just one Dragon Dance, Salamence’s Attack and Speed are both 1.5 times higher, making it significantly more potent.
2.2 Benefits of Using Dragon Dance
- Increased Attack: Allows Salamence to hit harder with physical attacks.
- Increased Speed: Enables Salamence to outspeed more opponents, attacking first.
- Sweeping Potential: Sets Salamence up to defeat multiple Pokémon in a row.
- Momentum Shift: Can quickly turn the tide of battle in your favor.
2.3 Strategic Implications
Using Dragon Dance requires careful planning and execution. It’s essential to use the move when Salamence is safe from immediate threats, such as when the opponent is likely to switch out or when Salamence has adequate defensive support. Here are some strategic considerations:
- Timing: Use Dragon Dance when Salamence can survive an incoming attack or when the opponent is setting up.
- Team Support: Pair Salamence with Pokémon that can provide support through moves like Protect, Reflect, or Light Screen.
- Opponent Prediction: Anticipate opponent’s moves to ensure Salamence can get at least one Dragon Dance boost before attacking.
3. Can Salamence Learn Dragon Dance?
Yes, Salamence can learn Dragon Dance, though the method varies depending on the Pokémon game generation. In Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, Salamence learns Dragon Dance via TM100. In previous generations, such as Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl, Dragon Dance is available as an Egg Move. This means that Salamence can learn Dragon Dance through breeding.
3.1 Learning Dragon Dance in Different Generations
| Generation | Method |
|---|---|
| Scarlet and Violet | TM100 |
| Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl | Egg Move |
| Older Generations | Through breeding, Move Tutor (in some games), or TM (in some games). Refer to individual game data. |
3.2 How to Get Dragon Dance on Salamence
3.2.1 Pokémon Scarlet and Violet
In Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, Salamence can learn Dragon Dance by using TM100. TMs are items that can teach specific moves to Pokémon. Follow these steps to teach Salamence Dragon Dance:
- Obtain TM100 (Dragon Dance):
- Find the TM: Locate TM100 on the map.
- Craft the TM: Visit a TM Machine and craft TM100 using the required materials. You will need:
- 8000 LP (League Points)
- 5 Bagon Scales
- 3 Dratini Scales
- 3 Axew Tusks
- Teach Salamence Dragon Dance:
- Open your bag and select TM100.
- Choose Salamence from your party.
- Confirm that you want to teach Salamence Dragon Dance.
3.2.2 Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl
In Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl, Salamence can learn Dragon Dance as an Egg Move. This involves breeding Salamence with a compatible Pokémon that knows Dragon Dance.
- Find a Compatible Pokémon with Dragon Dance:
- Pokémon such as Horsea, Dratini, or their evolutions can learn Dragon Dance and pass it down through breeding.
- Breed Salamence:
- Place a female Salamence (or a Ditto) and a male Pokémon that knows Dragon Dance in a Pokémon Day Care.
- Wait for an Egg to be produced.
- Hatch the Egg:
- Hatch the Egg, and the resulting Bagon will know Dragon Dance.
- Evolve Bagon:
- Train the Bagon to evolve into Shelgon, and then Salamence.
3.3 Other Games
In other games where Dragon Dance is available, check the specific game mechanics for Move Tutors, TMs, or breeding compatibility. Websites like Serebii.net and Bulbapedia are excellent resources for this information.
4. How Dragon Dance Enhances Salamence’s Battle Potential
Dragon Dance is a game-changer for Salamence. By boosting both Attack and Speed, it transforms Salamence into a formidable sweeper.
4.1 Improved Sweeping Capabilities
Sweeping is a strategy where a Pokémon attempts to defeat multiple opponents in a row, often after setting up with stat-boosting moves. Dragon Dance significantly enhances Salamence’s sweeping potential by allowing it to outspeed and overpower a wider range of threats.
4.2 Synergies with Salamence’s Abilities
Salamence’s abilities, Intimidate and Moxie, synergize well with Dragon Dance:
- Intimidate: Weakens physical attackers, giving Salamence a safer opportunity to set up with Dragon Dance.
- Moxie: After a Dragon Dance, each knockout further boosts Salamence’s Attack, creating a snowball effect.
4.3 Effective Strategies
Here are some effective strategies for using Salamence with Dragon Dance:
- Lead Position: Start Salamence in the lead position to take advantage of Intimidate and potentially force a switch.
- Mid-Game Setup: Bring Salamence in mid-game to capitalize on weakened opponents and opportunities for setup.
- Late-Game Sweeper: Use Salamence as a late-game sweeper after removing threats and setting up favorable conditions.
4.3.1 Sample Moveset for Salamence with Dragon Dance
A well-rounded moveset can maximize Salamence’s effectiveness in battle. Here’s a sample moveset that includes Dragon Dance:
- Dragon Dance: (Dragon-type) – Boosts Attack and Speed.
- Outrage: (Dragon-type) – A powerful Dragon-type attack.
- Earthquake: (Ground-type) – Provides coverage against Steel-type Pokémon.
- Fly: (Flying-type) – Offers STAB (Same Type Attack Bonus) and utility.
This moveset provides a balance of power, coverage, and utility, making Salamence a versatile threat in various battle scenarios.
5. Comprehensive Guide: Optimizing Salamence with Dragon Dance
To truly optimize Salamence with Dragon Dance, consider the following elements:
5.1 Nature and EVs
- Nature: Adamant or Jolly. Adamant (+Attack, -Sp. Atk) maximizes physical damage output, while Jolly (+Speed, -Sp. Atk) ensures Salamence outspeeds key threats.
- EVs (Effort Values):
- Adamant: 252 Attack, 252 Speed, 4 HP.
- Jolly: 252 Speed, 252 Attack, 4 HP.
5.2 Held Item
- Life Orb: Boosts the power of attacks at the cost of some HP.
- Lum Berry: Cures status conditions, useful against paralysis or burns.
- Leftovers: Provides passive HP recovery each turn, increasing survivability.
5.3 Team Synergies
- Entry Hazard Removal: Pokémon that can remove entry hazards like Stealth Rock are crucial for preserving Salamence’s HP.
- Status Support: Pokémon that can inflict status conditions like paralysis can help Salamence outspeed opponents.
- Defensive Support: Pokémon that can provide defensive support through moves like Reflect or Light Screen can give Salamence more setup opportunities.
5.4 Common Threats and Counters
- Ice-Type Moves: Salamence is extremely vulnerable to Ice-type attacks.
- Fairy-Type Pokémon: Fairy-types resist Dragon-type moves and can deal super-effective damage.
- Faster Pokémon: Opponents with higher Speed stats can outspeed and KO Salamence before it can set up.
5.5 Alternative Movesets
While Dragon Dance is a core component of many Salamence builds, there are alternative movesets that cater to different strategies:
- Choice Band Set: Focuses on immediate power with a Choice Band, locking Salamence into one move but significantly boosting its Attack.
- Outrage
- Earthquake
- Fly
- Crunch
- Special Attacker Set: Utilizes Salamence’s decent Special Attack stat with moves like Draco Meteor and Fire Blast.
- Draco Meteor
- Fire Blast
- Hydro Pump
- Roost
5.6 Detailed EV Spread Explanation
To maximize Salamence’s potential with Dragon Dance, understanding how to allocate Effort Values (EVs) is crucial. EVs are points that increase a Pokémon’s stats, and careful allocation can significantly enhance its performance in battle. Here’s a detailed explanation of common EV spreads for Salamence:
1. The Standard Sweeper (252 Atk / 252 Spe / 4 HP)
This EV spread is designed to maximize Salamence’s offensive output and speed, making it a formidable sweeper after a Dragon Dance boost.
- 252 Attack: This ensures Salamence hits as hard as possible with its physical attacks like Outrage, Earthquake, and Fly. By maximizing the Attack stat, Salamence can quickly take down opponents and maintain momentum in battle.
- 252 Speed: Investing fully in Speed allows Salamence to outspeed a significant portion of the Pokémon metagame after a Dragon Dance. This is crucial for ensuring Salamence can attack first and sweep through the opposing team.
- 4 HP: The remaining 4 EVs are placed in HP, providing a slight increase in overall bulk. While minimal, this can sometimes make the difference in surviving a crucial hit.
When to Use: This spread is ideal when you want Salamence to function as a fast and powerful physical sweeper, capable of quickly eliminating threats after setting up with Dragon Dance.
2. The Jolly Variant (252 Spe / 252 Atk / 4 HP)
This spread is similar to the standard sweeper but uses a Jolly nature to further enhance Salamence’s Speed. The Jolly nature increases Speed while decreasing Special Attack, which is not used in this set.
- 252 Speed: With a Jolly nature, Salamence can outspeed even more threats after a Dragon Dance. This is particularly useful in matchups where Speed is critical for victory.
- 252 Attack: While the Adamant nature provides a higher Attack stat, the Jolly nature still allows Salamence to hit hard with its physical attacks.
- 4 HP: The remaining 4 EVs are placed in HP for a slight increase in bulk.
When to Use: This spread is optimal when you need Salamence to outspeed specific threats in the metagame, even at the cost of some Attack power.
3. The Bulkier Offensive Spread (252 Atk / 128 Spe / 128 HP)
This EV spread sacrifices some Speed for increased bulk, allowing Salamence to take a few hits while still maintaining significant offensive presence.
- 252 Attack: Maximizes Salamence’s physical attack power, ensuring it can deal substantial damage to opponents.
- 128 Speed: Provides enough Speed to outspeed key threats after a Dragon Dance boost.
- 128 HP: Increases Salamence’s overall survivability, allowing it to take more hits and set up Dragon Dance more reliably.
When to Use: This spread is suitable when you anticipate facing teams with strong priority moves or when you need Salamence to survive powerful hits while setting up.
4. The Special Defensive Spread (252 Atk / 128 Spe / 128 SpD)
This EV spread focuses on enhancing Salamence’s Special Defense while maintaining offensive capabilities.
- 252 Attack: Maximizes Salamence’s physical attack power.
- 128 Speed: Allows Salamence to outspeed key threats after a Dragon Dance boost.
- 128 SpD (Special Defense): Enhances Salamence’s ability to withstand special attacks, making it more resilient against common threats like Electric and Ice-type moves.
When to Use: This spread is useful when you need Salamence to withstand strong special attacks, such as those from Electric or Ice-type Pokémon, while still being able to sweep after a Dragon Dance.
5.7 Practical Tips for EV Training
- Use Power Items: Equip Salamence with Power Items like the Power Bracer (Attack), Power Anklet (Speed), or Power Weight (HP) to gain additional EVs per battle.
- Battle Specific Pokémon: Target Pokémon that yield the desired EVs. For example, battling Pokémon in the Attack stat category will yield Attack EVs, and those in the Speed category will increase Speed EVs.
- Utilize EV-Reducing Berries: If you make a mistake in EV training, use EV-reducing berries like Pomeg Berry (HP), Kelpsy Berry (Attack), Qualot Berry (Defense), Hondew Berry (Special Attack), Grepa Berry (Special Defense), and Tamato Berry (Speed) to reset the EVs.
- Monitor EV Progress: Keep track of Salamence’s EV progress using the stat checker in the game. This will help you ensure you are allocating EVs correctly and efficiently.
- Complete the Training: Be sure to finish training with the correct EV amount.
6. Case Studies: Salamence in Action
Analyzing real-world examples can provide valuable insights into how Salamence performs in different battle scenarios.
6.1 Competitive Battles
In competitive Pokémon battles, Salamence is often used as a mid-to-late game sweeper. Its ability to set up with Dragon Dance and then unleash powerful attacks makes it a threat to many teams.
6.2 Online Tournaments
Salamence has seen success in various online tournaments, often appearing in the top teams. Players use Salamence strategically to capitalize on favorable matchups and sweep through weakened teams.
6.3 Key Matchups
- Favorable: Against teams lacking strong Ice- or Fairy-type Pokémon.
- Unfavorable: Against teams with priority moves or faster threats that can prevent Salamence from setting up.
7. Roaring Moon: A Paradoxical Comparison
Roaring Moon, a Paradox Pokémon introduced in Generation 9, shares a striking resemblance to Salamence, adding an intriguing dimension to competitive team-building and strategic considerations. This ancient relative of Salamence boasts unique characteristics and capabilities that set it apart while also highlighting the shared strengths and weaknesses of the two Dragon/Flying-types.
7.1 Key Differences Between Roaring Moon and Salamence
| Feature | Roaring Moon | Salamence |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Dragon/Dark | Dragon/Flying |
| Base Stats | Higher Attack and Speed, Lower Special Attack and Defense | Balanced Attack and Special Attack, Moderate Speed |
| Abilities | Protosynthesis (Boosts its most proficient stat in harsh sunlight) | Intimidate, Moxie |
| Movepool | Access to Dark-type moves, such as Knock Off and Crunch | More diverse coverage moves, including Earthquake, Fire Blast, and Hydro Pump |
| Strengths | Exceptional physical attacker and sweeper, strong against Psychic- and Ghost-types | Versatile attacker with mixed offensive capabilities, useful in a variety of team compositions |
| Weaknesses | Vulnerable to Fairy, Fighting, Bug, Ice, and Rock moves | Weak to Ice (4x), Rock, Electric, and Fairy moves |
| Strategic Role | Sweeper, wallbreaker, revenge killer | Setup sweeper, bulky attacker, utility pivot |
| Team Synergy | Pairs well with Pokémon that can set up harsh sunlight, such as Torkoal or Groudon | Benefits from teammates that can remove entry hazards and provide defensive support, such as Tapu Fini or Ferrothorn |
| Popularity in Meta | High usage due to its immediate offensive pressure and speed | Commonly used for its setup potential and sweeping capabilities, but requires more strategic planning and team support |
| Overall Viability | Excellent in fast-paced, offensive-oriented metas | Remains viable in balanced and slower-paced metas, where its setup potential and coverage options can be fully exploited |
7.2 Strategic Considerations for Roaring Moon
Roaring Moon’s Dragon/Dark typing and Protosynthesis ability make it a formidable presence in battles, especially under harsh sunlight conditions. This ancient relative of Salamence excels in several key areas:
- Immediate Offensive Pressure: Roaring Moon’s exceptional Attack and Speed stats, combined with the Protosynthesis boost in harsh sunlight, allow it to apply immediate offensive pressure. This makes it an excellent choice for teams that aim to quickly overwhelm their opponents.
- Wallbreaking Capabilities: With access to powerful Dark-type moves like Knock Off and Crunch, Roaring Moon can break through defensive walls that might otherwise stall or hinder progress. Knock Off is particularly useful for removing items, disrupting defensive strategies and crippling key support Pokémon.
- Revenge Killing: Roaring Moon’s high Speed and offensive prowess make it an ideal revenge killer. It can swiftly eliminate weakened opponents, capitalizing on opportunities to maintain momentum and control the battlefield.
- Sun Team Synergy: Roaring Moon thrives on teams that can consistently set up harsh sunlight, as the Protosynthesis ability significantly boosts its most proficient stat (usually Attack or Speed). Pairing it with Pokémon like Torkoal or Groudon ensures it can maintain its offensive pressure throughout the battle.
- Versatile Movepool Options: Roaring Moon’s movepool includes options such as Acrobatics for Flying-type coverage, Iron Head for Fairy-type matchups, and U-Turn for maintaining momentum through strategic switches. This versatility allows it to adapt to various team compositions and counter specific threats effectively.
7.3 Key Strategies for Roaring Moon
- Sunlight Setup:
- Ensure harsh sunlight is consistently set up using Pokémon like Torkoal or Groudon. This maximizes Roaring Moon’s offensive capabilities by activating Protosynthesis.
- Item Disruption:
- Utilize Knock Off early in the battle to remove crucial items from opposing Pokémon. This can disrupt defensive strategies and weaken key support Pokémon.
- Sweeping Potential:
- Capitalize on Roaring Moon’s high Attack and Speed to sweep through weakened teams. Ensure it has adequate support to handle threats like Fairy-types or faster attackers.
- Strategic Switching:
- Use U-Turn to maintain momentum through strategic switches, allowing Roaring Moon to escape unfavorable matchups and bring in teammates that can better handle specific threats.
- Coverage Options:
- Choose coverage moves that complement Roaring Moon’s Dragon/Dark typing and provide answers to common threats. Acrobatics, Iron Head, and other coverage moves can help it overcome specific challenges in battle.
7.4 Roaring Moon vs. Salamence
- Offensive Prowess: Roaring Moon boasts immediate offensive pressure, while Salamence relies more on setting up with Dragon Dance.
- Defensive Capabilities: Salamence offers better defensive utility with Intimidate and can switch in more safely.
- Typing: Roaring Moon’s Dragon/Dark typing provides unique coverage and resistances, while Salamence’s Dragon/Flying typing makes it exceptionally weak to Ice-type moves.
- Team Dependency: Roaring Moon thrives in Sun teams, while Salamence benefits from entry hazard removal and defensive support.
8. FAQ: Common Questions About Salamence and Dragon Dance
Q1: Can Bagon learn Dragon Dance?
A: Yes, in certain generations, Bagon can learn Dragon Dance as an Egg Move.
Q2: Is Dragon Dance a TM in every Pokémon game?
A: No, Dragon Dance is not a TM in every game. Its availability varies by generation.
Q3: What are the best natures for Salamence with Dragon Dance?
A: Adamant and Jolly are the most effective natures.
Q4: What held item should I use on Salamence?
A: Life Orb, Lum Berry, and Leftovers are all viable options.
Q5: How many times should I use Dragon Dance in a battle?
A: This depends on the situation, but one or two Dragon Dances are usually sufficient.
Q6: What types of Pokémon counter Salamence with Dragon Dance?
A: Ice, Fairy, and faster Pokémon can counter Salamence.
Q7: Can Salamence learn Dragon Dance in Pokémon Go?
A: No, Dragon Dance is not available for Salamence in Pokémon Go.
Q8: What other setup moves can Salamence learn?
A: Salamence can learn moves like Focus Energy, but Dragon Dance is generally the most effective.
Q9: Is Mega Salamence better with or without Dragon Dance?
A: Mega Salamence can benefit from Dragon Dance, but it also works well with a Choice Band set due to its high base Attack.
Q10: Where can I find more information about competitive Pokémon battling?
A: Websites like Smogon University and LEARNS.EDU.VN offer detailed guides and resources.
9. Conclusion: Unleashing Salamence’s Dragon Dance Potential
Dragon Dance is a powerful move that significantly enhances Salamence’s battle potential. Whether you’re playing Pokémon Scarlet and Violet or older generations, understanding how to obtain and utilize Dragon Dance can transform Salamence into a formidable sweeper. By considering nature, EVs, held items, and team synergies, you can optimize Salamence for success in competitive battles. Remember to stay informed about the latest strategies and resources available at LEARNS.EDU.VN to keep your team at the top of its game.
Ready to take your Pokémon training to the next level? Visit learns.edu.vn for more in-depth guides, strategies, and resources. Explore our courses and articles to master the art of Pokémon battling and become a true champion. For personalized support and expert advice, contact us at 123 Education Way, Learnville, CA 90210, United States, or reach out via WhatsApp at +1 555-555-1212.
Disclaimer: All information is based on current Pokémon game mechanics and competitive battling strategies as of the latest updates. Game mechanics and strategies are subject to change with future updates.
