Gyarados, the Atrocious Pokémon, is a formidable Water and Flying-type with a reputation for destruction. Known for its intense power and aggressive nature, it’s a popular choice for trainers seeking a strong offensive presence. But can this powerful Pokémon learn Earthquake, a devastating Ground-type move? Let’s dive into Gyarados’s movepool and find out.
Gyarados and the Earthquake Move
The answer is a resounding yes! Gyarados can learn Earthquake. This powerful Ground-type move, boasting 100 base power and 100% accuracy, allows Gyarados to effectively counter its weaknesses to Electric and Rock-type Pokémon. Learning Earthquake significantly expands Gyarados’s offensive capabilities and makes it a more versatile threat in battles.
In the latest games, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, Gyarados can learn Earthquake through the use of TM149. This makes acquiring the move relatively straightforward for trainers.
Why Earthquake is a Valuable Asset for Gyarados
Gyarados’s dual Water/Flying typing leaves it vulnerable to Electric-type moves, which deal quadruple damage. Rock-type moves also pose a significant threat, dealing double damage. Earthquake provides crucial coverage against these weaknesses, allowing Gyarados to retaliate against common counters.
Furthermore, Earthquake is a physically-based move, aligning perfectly with Gyarados’s high Attack stat. This synergy allows Gyarados to maximize the move’s damage potential, making it a core component of many offensive strategies. With Earthquake in its arsenal, Gyarados becomes a more well-rounded and threatening Pokémon, capable of handling a wider variety of opponents.
Expanding Gyarados’s Moveset
While Earthquake is a key move, Gyarados can learn a diverse range of other attacks to complement its strengths. Moves like Waterfall (Water), Crunch (Dark), and Dragon Dance (Dragon) further enhance its offensive capabilities. Waterfall provides reliable STAB (Same Type Attack Bonus) damage, Crunch offers coverage against Ghost and Psychic types, and Dragon Dance boosts Gyarados’s Attack and Speed stats, making it even more formidable.
Gyarados also has access to powerful special moves like Hydro Pump and Hurricane, although its lower Special Attack stat makes them less effective than its physical moves. Trainers often opt for a physical-focused moveset to capitalize on Gyarados’s natural strengths.
Conclusion: Earthquake Empowers the Atrocious Pokémon
The ability to learn Earthquake transforms Gyarados from a powerful but predictable threat into a versatile offensive powerhouse. By addressing its key weaknesses and leveraging its high Attack stat, Earthquake solidifies Gyarados’s position as a top-tier Pokémon in competitive battles. If you’re looking to maximize your Gyarados’s potential, teaching it Earthquake is a must.
