Best moves for Espathra in Pokemon Scarlet & Violet

It's rare when Speed Boost is thrown on a Pokémon and that Pokémon does not become OP. Ninjask may be the rare exception. Espathra is currently showing, though, that it can have run of the mill stats and still punish opponents by setting up with this strong ability.

Best build for Espathra in Pokémon Scarlet & Violet

• Protect
• Calm Mind
• Stored Power
• Dazzling Gleam

Protect is necessary on this set because Espathra needs a turn for Speed Boost to kick in. Protecting on turn one will let it outspeed threats like Roaring Moon, Iron Valiant, and Meowscarada. Once it's able to Calm Mind, it will get three stat boosts (Special Attack, Special Defense and Speed). As such, Stored Power will already be well boosted up.

Dazzling Gleam is there to hit Dark-types which are immune to Psychic moves. An unboosted Dazzling Gleam will one hit KO Roaring Moon. It will probably need a Calm Mind before being able to knock out threats like Meowscarada or Chien Pao, however. Leftovers is the preferred item on this build so that Espathra can stay on the field long enough to boost up.

Related: Best moves for Chi Yu in Pokémon Scarlet & Violet

What are the best counters to Espathra in Pokémon Scarlet & Violet?

Steel-types resist both moves ran by Espathra (Stored Power and Dazzling Gleam), making them easy counters. Corviknight and Gholdengo are both great at this role. Another weakness Espathra has is to priority moves. Sucker Punch from King Gambit and Aqua Jet from Choice Band Azumarill are great tools to have in case Espathra gets some Speed Boosts in.

Want more Pokémon Scarlet & Violet guides? Pro Game Guides has you covered with Best moves for Roaring Moon in Pokémon Scarlet & Violet.