Hi there! I'm a competitive Pokemon battler with years of experience battling and team-building. I've won numerous tournaments and have even helped design competitive Pokemon teams for other players. I'm happy to share my knowledge with you.

Let's dive into the eternal question: Dusknoir or Dusclops? Both of these Ghost-type Pokemon have their merits and can be valuable assets to your team. However, the answer to which one is "better" isn't so straightforward. It depends entirely on your team composition, battling style, and what you need from your Ghost-type Pokemon.

## Comparing the Stats: A Tale of Two Roles

Dusclops: This bulky wall shines in its incredible Defense stat. With a base 130 Defense, Dusclops can shrug off even the strongest physical attacks. Its HP stat isn't bad either, sitting at a respectable 80. This allows Dusclops to function as a fantastic physical wall, stalling out opponents and wearing them down.

Dusknoir: While Dusknoir's defenses aren't as impressive as Dusclops', it boasts a higher Attack stat (90 compared to Dusclops' 70) and slightly higher Special Defense. This makes Dusknoir more suited for an offensive role, though it's still significantly less powerful than other dedicated offensive threats.

## Movepool Considerations: Tricks and Trades

Both Pokemon share a fairly similar movepool, learning a variety of Ghost, Dark, Fighting, and Psychic-type moves. This allows for some strategic flexibility depending on your needs.

Dusclops' Ace in the Hole: EVIOILTE

This is where the discussion takes a fascinating turn. Dusclops has access to the move EVIOILTE, a unique move that swaps its monstrous Defense stat with its pitiful Special Defense. This opens up a world of possibilities, turning Dusclops into a terrifying special attacker overnight.

**Dusknoir's Advantage: Priority and Support**

While lacking EVIOILTE, Dusknoir has a few tricks up its sleeve. It learns SHADOW SNEAK, a priority move that always goes first, allowing you to potentially pick off weakened opponents. Additionally, Dusknoir learns moves like WILL-O-WISP and PAIN SPLIT, offering some support options that Dusclops lacks.

## Competitive Viability: Format Matters

In formats like Smogon, where EVIOILTE is banned, Dusclops' niche becomes less pronounced. Here, Dusknoir might be a slightly better choice due to its offensive presence and access to priority.

However, in formats where EVIOILTE is legal, Dusclops transforms into an unpredictable threat. The ability to swap its Defense stat for Special Attack creates mind games and forces your opponent to constantly adapt.

## The Verdict: No Clear Winner

Ultimately, choosing between Dusknoir and Dusclops comes down to your specific needs:

Choose Dusclops if:

* You need an incredibly bulky physical wall.
* You want to utilize the unpredictable power of EVIOILTE.
* You prefer a more defensive, strategic playstyle.

Choose Dusknoir if:

* You need a slightly more offensive Ghost-type.
* You value access to priority and support moves.
* You prefer a more straightforward approach.

Both Pokemon can be valuable assets, and neither is inherently "better" than the other. Assess your team, your strategy, and choose the one that best fits your needs. Good luck, and may your battles be filled with spectral success!
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The only good eviolite pokemon that doesn't leave its evolution in its dust is scyther because scizor has bullet punch, technician, and swords dance. but Dusknoir still has more offenses. ... Dusknoir is a better trick room user but dusclops is better at walling opponents. Still, 405 defense isnt bad on a dusknoir.read more >>