Pokemon VGC Fake Out: How to use, tips, and counters

With the 2024 Pokemon World Championships right around the corner, many casual players are tempted to try out the official Pokemon VGC format. Standing for Video Game Championships, this format of battle is officially used by professional players and for Double Battles in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet's ranked mode.

One of the many moves new players may hear a lot about from experienced battlers is Fake Out. This attack has become a staple in the competitive scene since its intial debut, thanks to how well its unique effect can work to shut down high-priority targets.

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How to use Fake Out in Pokemon VGC

Fake Out almost always goes first and has a 100% chance to flinch the target (Image via Game Freak)

Fake Out is a priority move that can only be used in the player's first turn of combat. When the attack strikes its target, they will flinch, skipping their turn.

Since this move can only be used in the first turn of combat, it is often utilized against Pokemon deployed for set-ups, like Alolan Ninetales or Tornadus.

Tips for using Fake Out in Pokemon VGC

• Fake Out is a Normal-type move, so it cannot be used against Ghost-type foes.
• Fake Out has a priority score of +3, meaning the only moves that go before it are protection moves and Helping Hand.
• Fake Out can be used again if the user is switched out and brought back in. It works well when paired with teams that make use of U-Turn.
• If opposing Pokemon are both going to use Fake Out, whoever goes first is determined by who has the higher speed stat.

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How to counter Fake Out in Pokemon VGC

Since Fake Out is a move that deals damage and is a priority attack, there are many new ways players can counter it. Of course, there is always the tried and true option to use Protect on the first turn of combat. While this does somewhat wastes a turn, it will keep the player's team healthy.

Additionally, Psychic Surge Indeedee prevents Fake Out from taking effect as Psychic Terrain nullifies all priority moves. Farigiraf is also used for the same reason, with its Armor Tail ability protecting it and its allies from priority attacks like Fake Out, Sucker Punch, and Extreme Speed.

Quick Guard is a move that can be used by a supporting Pokemon alongside a set-up pick. Quick Guard protects the entire team from priority attacks, meaning the important set-up or damage dealer does not have to waste their turn using Protect. Rather, the supporting ally with Quick Guard will simply nullify Fake Out if it is used.

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Fake Out is a very important tool in Pokemon VGC battles and has been since the move's addition in the third generation of the franchise. Its age also means that the franchise has had a lot more time to release counters for it, so players looking to use it will have to incorporate a bit of strategy to make the most of its effect.

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For more information on the Pokemon competitive scene, check out our other articles:

• All Grass-type starters in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet VGC, ranked
• Pokemon Scarlet and Violet VGC Regulation G restricted Pokemon tier list
• Pokemon VGC Tailwind: How to use, tips, and counters