Series 2 of Pokemon VGC begins today, and for the first time, the Paradox Pokemon of Pokemon Scarlet and Violet can be used. The Paradox Pokemon are incredibly strong, so they have the potential to shake up the competitive scene. There are plenty of options for players to choose from whether they are searching for a fierce Dragon-type like Roaring Moon or a hard-hitter like Iron Hands. Iron Bundle is also a good choice for its speed, though Trainers have to play a game of probability to make the most of it.
Thanks to how fast it is, Iron Bundle has the potential to find plenty of competitive use in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet. However, Trainers will have to find a way to ensure that the odds are in their favor when they use the speedy bird. It is also worth remembering that opponents can work around Iron Bundle's speed by utilizing priority moves and Trick Room.
Iron Bundle's Competitive Potential
Scarlet and Violet feature the Paradox Pokemon that come from different eras in time. In Scarlet, the creatures emerge from the deep past while in Violet, they come from the far future. These Pokemon have to be stopped because they are powerful enough to pose a threat to Paldea, though that doesn't mean players can't catch a couple. One of the Paradox Pokemon players encounter in Violet is Iron Bundle, which is the future form of Delibird. Many players may neglect this creature because Delibird doesn't have the reputation of being a competitively viable Pokemon. Despite this, Iron Bundle manages to surprise everyone by packing some impressive stats and moves.
Iron Bundle is an Ice/Water dual-type with a metallic body. It stands out thanks to its incredibly high base Speed stat of 136 which makes it the fastest Gen 9 Pokemon. Being fast is incredibly useful in a competitive context, as striking first allows players to quickly take out a troublesome opponent or set up a strategy before a foe can interfere. The high speed is backed up with a base Special Attack stat of 124 and a base Defense stat of 114. These stats help make Iron Bundle a formidable foe, though the Paradox Pokemon may still be tricky to use, as making the most of it requires players to roll the dice a bit.
Iron Bundle's Risky Moves
As an Ice/Water dual-type, Iron Bundle gains access to a host of powerful moves. Using these moves comes with great risk because very few are completely reliable. This is the case, for example, with Freeze-Dry which is a 70 Power move. Thanks to Iron Bundle's typing, the move gets a STAB raise when it is used. Furthermore, it can also leave opponents Frozen. The downside is that the move only has a 10% chance of freezing its target. Having an opponent Frozen is very useful, but the odds of it happening with Freeze-Dry aren't high.
One of Iron Bundle's strongest attacks is the Water-type move Hydro Pump. It has 110 Power, though it only has 80% accuracy. Once again, players have the chance to reap great advantages, but they have to roll the dice to do it. The odds can be increased through the use of Items such as the Wide Lens that increase accuracy, though many Trainers would rather arm their Pokemon with an Item that restores precious HP.
With rumors of Scarlet and Violet DLC swirling around, gamers may see more Paradox Pokemon. Though nothing has been officially confirmed, leaks claim that Suicune and Virizion are two of the Pokemon that will receive Paradox forms. There is also the chance for the Hisuian Pokemon of Pokemon Legends: Arceus to finally arrive in Paldea.
Pokemon Scarlet and Violet are available on Nintendo Switch.
