Both Magneton and Magnezone boast huge Special Attack stats. Where Sandy Shocks (an alternate version of Magneton) differs from them, though, is a usable speed stat. Max Speed Sandy Shocks can outspeed Espathra, Quaquaval, Volcarona, and plenty of other annoying threats. On Sun teams, Sandy Shocks becomes even more deadly as well.
Best build for Sandy Shocks in Pokémon Scarlet & Violet
- Thunderbolt Power Gem Earth Power Volt Switch
Thanks to its stat build, Sandy Shocks makes a perfect Choice Specs wallbreaker. Thunderbolt and Volt Switch are the bread and butter for Electric-type attackers. Earth Power allows it to hit Tyranitar and Clodsire, two Pokémon who excel at sitting in front of Special Attackers. Power Gem is also a great option for hitting Volcaronas that think they can Quiver Dance in front of Sandy Shocks.
Usually, this type of set works best if Sandy Shocks has a Timid Nature and has Max Speed with Max Special Attack. An interesting secret that trainers can use on a Sun team is to run a little less Special Attack. If Sandy Shocks has 330 Special Attack (one less than its Max Speed of 331), then Protosynthesis will boost Sandy Shocks’ Speed. This is one way that the Pokémon can potentially sweep with a Choice Specs to make up for the lost Special Attack.
What are the best counters to Sandy Shocks?
With a Choice Specs set, it’s really difficult finding anything that switches into Sandy Shocks’ attacks. The sole exception would be Blissey, who eats every special attack known to man. There are certain Pokémon who use Assault Vest that can counter Sandy Shocks as well, Iron Hands being one.
Outside of that, offensively checking Sandy Shocks is often the way to go. Even though its Speed tier is nice, Meowscarada, Dragapult, and Chien Pao all still outspeed it. This won’t be the case if Sandy Shocks gets its Speed boosted in Sun, however.
Want more Pokémon Scarlet & Violet guides? Check out Best movesets for Gholdengo in Pokémon Scarlet & Violet here at Pro Game Guides.
