0145 Zapdos(Galarian)

Galarian Zapdos has a very limited moveset with almost no flexibility in its moveset choices. Fortunately, Counter is one of the best Fast Moves in the game, offering a strong combination of damage output and energy generation, along with valuable coverage. 

Close Combat threatens massive damage, but applies a harsh self-debuff on the user, making it difficult to use. Brave Bird has the same profile, but costs slightly more energy and offers Flying-type coverage instead. Ancient Power is unfortunately a poor choice due to its pitiful damage output. It ties with Close Combat in terms of energy cost, making it unimpressive to use for baiting shields. 

Galarian Zapdos packs a devastating closing potential and a largely unresisted STAB combination. Thanks to Counter being an excellent Fast Attack, Galarian Zapdos has no issues farming down opponents to begin sweeping teams with Close Combat and Brave Bird. However, it is held back by its poor bulk and being a Fighting-type that struggles against the ever-present Walrein. The unreliability of its Brave Bird also restricts its Flying-type side, as Galarian Zapdos struggles to counter Grass- and Fighting-type Pokemon. It does have Ground-type resistance with Rock-type neutrality though, which helps it punish Galarian Stunfisk a bit better than other Fighting-type Pokemon.

Its bulk is better and can reach its Charged Attacks a bit more consistently. For example, it no longer gets oneshot by Trevenant's Shadow Ball after a little Shadow Claw chip. Its closing potential is still terrifying and can definitely take over games, although its consistency is still shaky. Galarian Zapdos also still runs into issues with Walrein in this league, and Nidoqueen, Talonflame, Cresselia, Tapu Fini and Giratina being common are still obstacles it needs to overcome.

Very few Fighting-type Pokemon can match Galarian Zapdos's stats, so it towers against most of its direct competition. Its closing potential is still scary as ever and there's quite a few Fighting weak targets to prey on, while its deadly Brave Birds can send most of its potential counters reeling. With that said, being a Fighting-type Pokemon in Master League comes with a combination of weaknesses that is challenging to cover, which makes it hard to fit onto a team without stacking weaknesses in some way.