Pokemon VGC Taunt: How to use, tips, counters, and more

With the 2024 Pokemon World Championships almost here, a lot of eyes are on the Pokemon VGC. Pokemon VGC, or Video Game Championships, are tournaments held in the main series titles of the franchise. The 2024 rendition supported the full experience of the most recent Scarlet and Violet titles, including all creatures from the base game and expansion.

One of the many moves a lot of new battlers may hear about when it comes to the competitive scene is Taunt. This valuable utility move is very helpful for Double Battles, as it prevents a target from using status moves. Here is everything to know regarding Taunt and how it can be used effectively.

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How to use Taunt in Pokemon VGC

Taunt is best used as soon as possible, with many of the best users having priority with the move (Image via The Pokemon Company)

Given how most set-ups for VGC Double Battles happen in the first turn of combat, it is important to use Taunt as soon as possible in many strategies. For this reason, many Taunt users are creatures with the ability, Prankster. This ability grants priority to status moves like Taunt, allowing them to move first most of the time.

For this reason, Sableye, Tornadus, and Whimsicott have become very popular choices. Each of them has its own strengths and advantages. However, Tornadus tends to fit into most team compositions easily since it also has access to Tailwind and much higher stats since it is an unrestricted Legendary Pokemon.

Tips for using Taunt in Pokemon VGC

• If being used by a Pokemon with the Prankster ability, Taunt will not affect Dark-type Pokemon.
• Additionally, Pokemon with the Oblivious ability are immune to the effect, with the Aroma Veil ability outright preventing it from affecting any creature on the field.
• Taunt can hit creatures through Substitutes, unlike most other status moves.
• If a Pokemon holding a Choice item is hit with Taunt after using a status move, they will be forced to use Struggle, dealing light damage and taking a large amount of recoil damage.
• Even if the potential target is not a utility-heavy Pokemon, Taunt could still prevent them from using Protect on a crucial turn.

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How to counter Taunt in Pokemon VGC

Since most users of Taunt in the current meta are using the Prankster ability, a Dark-type lead like Incineroar or Chien-Pao can be a safe choice if players suspect Taunt to be in play during team select. Grimmsnarl is a Dark-type support pick that cannot be affected by Taunt used by a Prankster monster.

The Mental Herb held item can also be used to nullify the effects of Taunt. However, it can only be done once, as the item is consumed upon absorbing the effect.

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Taunt is a crucial move in controlling the tempo and battlefield during Pokemon VGC matches. Being able to shut down important field moves like Trick Room, or Tailwind is incredibly valuable, and a well-timed Taunt could potentially lead to the user snowballing a win off of the status alone.

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For more information about the Pokemon series, check out our other articles:

• Best Doubles teams for Pokemon Scarlet and Violet Regulation Set G
• Everything to know about the 2024 Pokemon World Championships
• Pokemon Scarlet and Violet Mystery Gift codes