For those intense single battles, Cloyster is a high-quality Physical Sweeper. The objective of this moveset is to crush rivals using heavy-hitting physical attacks. White Herb will reset Cloyster's negative stat changes once (specifically for when it uses Shell Smash). Cloyster's multi-hit attacks will always hit the max times with Skill Link. This boosts the amount of strikes from Rock Blast and Icicle Spear. Cloyster's main set is one that can sweep most teams with ease; in fact, it's a liability to have a bulky Ground-type when your opponent has a Cloyster. This set is best used on an offensive team, where other sweepers can open up holes in defensive cores for Cloyster to take advantage of. Shell Smash is the crux of this set, doubling Cloyster's Attack, Special Attack, and Speed to threatening levels. Icicle Spear is the perfect move for Cloyster; because of Skill Link, it will always hit five times, effectively making it a 125 Base Power STAB move. Rock Blast offers great coverage with Icicle Spear, hitting Fire-, Water-, and Ice-types for at least neutral damage. In the last slot, either Hydro Pump or Razor Shell is acceptable. Hydro Pump is the preferred option for getting past Skarmory, Scizor, Forretress, and Metagross, since it hits their weaker Special Defense; however, Razor Shell will destroy Tyranitar and Heatran without fail, as they both commonly run specially defensive sets.

Cloyster thrives as a brilliant Physical Sweeper perfect for single battles. It's goal is to overwhelm foes with powerful physical moves. Focus Sash helps protect Cloyster from being one-shotted and allowing it to atleast use a crucial move when brought out (usually Shell Smash to boost Cloyster for the following turns). Cloyster's multi-hit attacks will always hit the max times with Skill Link. Try to Shell Smash first then DESTROY your opponent with Ice and Rocks.