U4GM - Best Build for Houndoom in Pokémon Legends: Z-A

Houndoom is a powerful Dark/Fire-type Pokémon that can be an asset to any team in Pokémon Legends: Z-A. With its intimidating presence and versatile move pool, Houndoom can be used in a variety of battle strategies, making it a top choice for competitive players. If you're looking to build the best Houndoom for your team, here's a comprehensive guide on its ideal build and how to maximize its potential.

Stats Overview

Houndoom excels in both Special Attack and Speed, making it an excellent choice for offensive roles. Its special moves hit hard, and with its speed, it can outspeed many threats in battle. However, its defenses are somewhat lackluster, so you’ll want to be mindful of the matchups where it can be easily knocked out.

Ideal Nature: Timid or Modest
These natures boost Speed and Special Attack respectively, ensuring that Houndoom can dish out damage and outspeed opponents. Timid is especially beneficial for getting the jump on other fast Pokémon, while Modest helps maximize Houndoom's offensive capabilities.

Best Abilities:

• Early Bird: Houndoom’s hidden ability, Early Bird, reduces sleep turns, giving it a slight edge if it gets put to sleep.

• Flash Fire: This ability boosts Houndoom’s Fire-type moves if hit by a Fire-type attack, which can be useful for taking down opposing Fire-types.

Best Moveset for Houndoom

A solid moveset for Houndoom revolves around its strong Special Attack and Speed stats. Here’s the optimal set:

1. Flamethrower – A reliable, powerful Fire-type move that benefits from Houndoom's high Special Attack. It’s perfect for dealing with Steel, Bug, Ice, and Grass-types.

2. Dark Pulse – This Dark-type move works perfectly with Houndoom’s offensive spread, allowing it to deal heavy damage to Psychic and Ghost-types. Dark Pulse also has the potential to flinch opponents, adding extra utility to the move.

3. Sludge Bomb – Sludge Bomb gives Houndoom coverage against Fairy- and Grass-types, rounding out its offensive options. It also has a chance to poison the target.

4. Nasty Plot – This move is ideal for boosting Houndoom’s Special Attack, making its already powerful special moves even stronger. Using Nasty Plot early in the game can give Houndoom the edge in sweeping opposing teams.

EV Distribution

To maximize Houndoom's offensive power, you should focus on its Special Attack and Speed:

• 252 Special Attack – Maximizes the damage output of your special moves.

• 252 Speed – Ensures that Houndoom outspeeds as many foes as possible.

• 4 HP – A small investment in HP can help Houndoom take hits better.

This build will allow Houndoom to hit fast and hard, ensuring that it can make an impact in battle before most opponents even have the chance to respond.

Best Held Items

• Life Orb – Increases the power of Houndoom’s moves, though it does come at the cost of some HP after each attack. Life Orb is the best option if you want to maximize damage output.

• Choice Specs – For those who prefer a more focused offensive approach, Choice Specs can further amplify Houndoom’s Special Attack, locking it into a single move but making it incredibly potent.

• Assault Vest – If you're looking for a more defensive approach to cover Houndoom’s frailty, the Assault Vest boosts its Special Defense, making it harder to take down with special moves.

Team Synergy

Houndoom thrives on a team that can support its weaknesses. Given that it’s vulnerable to Water-, Rock-, and Ground-type moves, having teammates that can resist these types is key. Pokémon like Gyarados or Toxapex, which resist Water- and Ground-type moves, make great partners for Houndoom. Additionally, having a reliable cleric or status-healer like Blissey can help mitigate any status conditions, especially if Houndoom is using Nasty Plot to set up.

Alternative Strategies

For players who are more competitive and looking to expand their options, you can also consider using a buy shiny pokemon variant of Houndoom. These Pokémon have a unique aesthetic and can stand out in battles, making them more fun to play with in addition to their powerful build. You can even buy Shiny Pokemon ZA through platforms like U4GM if you're interested in adding a rare, visually striking Houndoom to your team without hunting for one.

Whether you're looking for a top-tier Houndoom build for online play or just want to enjoy its fierce presence in your battles, this guide will help you get the most out of this powerhouse Pokémon. Don't forget to consider your team composition and playstyle when deciding how to build your Houndoom.