<p>Swords Dance is an often-overlooked move in Empoleon's movepool. With STAB and Torrent, a +2 Aqua Jet hits for fairly massive damage on most OU threats. Thanks to Empoleon's almost universal resistance of attacks, it can come in on many Pokemon and get a free Swords Dance as the foe switches. For tough Steel types, Earthquake is the move of choice, and Avalanche hits Dragons hard. Earthquake is another option for power, as well as hitting Electric types. The 252 Attack give it power, and 252 HP takes advantage of Empoleon's great bulk to take a hit while attacking.</p>

<p>Unfortunately, the main reason Swords Dance is overlooked is that Empoleon's subpar speed usually prevents this trick from working. Aqua Jet can't cover everything with enough power to KO, Gyarados and Salamence being big problems to this set with Intimidate and resistance to Aqua Jet (and immunity to Earthquake). Any faster Pokemon with Earthquake or Close Combat will also prove a problem. To mitigate this, Celebi makes a great partner for SD Empoleon, especially if it can lower the foe's speed with Thunder Wave. A paralyzed team of opponents is very easy for Empoleon to break through once it gets a few boosts.</p>
