Sandsturm (Sand Stream)

Sand Stream automatically summons a sandstorm upon entering battle, creating one of the most influential weather conditions in competitive play. Unlike the temporary sandstorms from moves like Sandstorm, Sand Stream's weather persists indefinitely until another weather condition replaces it or the summoning Pokemon switches out. The sandstorm deals passive damage each turn to all non-Rock, Ground, and Steel-type Pokemon, while also boosting the Special Defense of Rock-types by 50 percent during the storm.

When multiple weather-setting abilities activate simultaneously, they resolve based on Speed order, with slower Pokemon's weather taking precedence. This creates interesting strategic considerations in doubles formats where speed control becomes crucial for weather wars. In Trick Room conditions, the typical speed order reverses, allowing normally slower weather setters to claim priority.

Tyranitar stands as the most prominent Sand Stream user, leveraging both the weather support and its formidable offensive presence to dominate sand teams. Hippowdon serves as a more defensive alternative, often functioning as the team's primary wall while maintaining sand pressure. The ability's competitive impact extends beyond just the weather itself, enabling entire team archetypes built around sand rush sweepers, sand force attackers, and Pokemon that benefit from the special defense boost or chip damage on opponents.