Chien-Pao
VGC Guide
Chien-Pao is the fastest physical attacker among the Treasures of Ruin. Sword of Ruin reduces all Pokémon’s Defense by 25%, and combined with 135 base Speed and Ice Shard priority, it forms an extraordinarily aggressive offense core in VGC.
Sword of Ruin Ability Breakdown
When Chien-Pao is on the field, all Pokémon except Chien-Pao have their Defense reduced by 25% (×0.75 Defense multiplier). This effect cannot be negated by held items or abilities, and it affects teammates too — so avoid Defense-reliant partners.
Sword of Ruin Damage Calculation Examples
| Target | Without SoR | With SoR (-25%) | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Incineroar | 95 Def | Effective 71 Def | +33% damage |
| Iron Hands | 114 Def | Effective 85 Def | +33% damage |
| Kyogre | 90 Def | Effective 67 Def | +33% damage |
Standard Moveset
EV Spreads
Team Partners
Chi-Yu’s Beads of Ruin drops all Pokémon’s SpDef by 25%; combined with Chien-Pao’s Sword of Ruin Defense drop — both offensive stats are compromised on the opposing field.
Chien-Pao handles physical KOs at 135 base speed; Flutter Mane provides special coverage at the same speed tier — nearly perfect dual offensive core.
Fake Out enables Chien-Pao safe entry; Parting Shot reduces opposing Attack to extend Chien-Pao’s battle longevity.
Prankster Tailwind doubles Chien-Pao’s already elite speed — virtually nothing can move before it under Tailwind.
How to Counter Chien-Pao
Both Ice and Dark are resisted by Steel. Steel-types (like Iron Hands, the Fighting/Steel paradox) take reduced damage from most of Chien-Pao’s moves and can retaliate hard.
Fairy moves are super effective (×2) against Dark types. Flutter Mane or Togekiss can KO Chien-Pao directly with Moonblast or Dazzling Gleam.
Fire is super effective against Ice; Fighting super effective against Dark. Incineroar and Urshifu cover both of Chien-Pao’s STAB types simultaneously.
Unlike Urshifu, Chien-Pao has no way to bypass Protect. A well-timed Protect effectively wastes a turn and disrupts Chien-Pao’s momentum.