What surprised Shen Qi was that Mandibuzz definitely wasn't part of the main lineup.
Mandibuzz had relatively low physical attack and special attack base stats, at 65 and 55, so he couldn't deal any respectable damage.
His strengths lay in his three bulk stats-HP, Defense, and Special Defense-with base stats of 110, 105, and 95 respectively. His bulk was quite outstanding.
His Dark/Flying typing had four weaknesses, three resistances, and additional immunity to Ghost- and Ground-type attacks, which was also very good.
That level of bulk, paired with relatively weak offensive capabilities, suited a support role.
The truly surprising part was that even a support Pokémon had been trained to level 68.
Chapter 671: A Tricky Support Pokémon
Mandibuzz Ability: Overcoat
"Well, damn. Nothing sticks to him."
Shen Qi's assessment came from the fact that Mandibuzz himself was already largely immune to the effects of Psychic- and Flying-type moves. Add Overcoat to that, and powder moves had no effect on him.
Sleep Powder, Stun Spore, Poison Powder, and Rage Powder couldn't affect him.
Sandstorm and Hail couldn't damage Mandibuzz either.
With so many acting Gym Leaders and deputy Gym Leaders at Saffron Gym, Ni Shang wouldn't necessarily be Shen Qi's examiner.
For now, he would use this acting Gym Leader as his hypothetical opponent. If he wanted to deal with Mandibuzz, he could only fight him head-on, and his three bulk base stats of 110-105-95 made him very sturdy.
Even without considering Mandibuzz's moveset, those fundamentals alone meant he could contribute a great deal just by staying close to the main Pokémon and their Trainer to help block damage.
He checked Mandibuzz's moves.
Tailwind, 100% proficiency.
Once Tailwind was activated, every ally received a substantial Speed boost. Many Flying-type Pokémon took responsibility for setting up Tailwind if they