Can Metagross Learn Earthquake? Movepool, and Strategy Guide

Can Metagross Learn Earthquake? Understanding Metagross’s movepool is essential for trainers. This comprehensive guide, brought to you by LEARNS.EDU.VN, explores Metagross’s capabilities, strategic advantages, and potential move sets. Delve into how this powerful Pokémon can utilize its abilities and thrive in various battle scenarios, enhancing your strategic gameplay.

1. What Moves Can Metagross Truly Learn? An In-Depth Look

Metagross, the Iron Leg Pokémon, boasts a diverse movepool that extends beyond its Steel and Psychic typing. While it naturally learns many powerful moves through leveling up and evolution, Technical Machines (TMs) significantly expand its strategic options. Let’s explore the full spectrum of moves Metagross can learn, focusing on how these moves can shape its role in battle and provide a competitive edge.

1.1 Level-Up Moves: Mastering the Basics

Metagross learns a variety of moves naturally as it levels up. These moves form the foundation of its offensive and defensive capabilities.

Level	Move	Type	Category	Power	Accuracy	Description
1	Bullet Punch	Steel	Physical	40	100	A priority move that strikes before the opponent.
1	Confusion	Psychic	Special	50	100	A Psychic-type attack that may confuse the target.
1	Metal Claw	Steel	Physical	50	95	An attack that may raise the user’s Attack stat.
1	Tackle	Normal	Physical	40	100	A basic Normal-type attack.
6	Zen Headbutt	Psychic	Physical	80	90	A Psychic-type attack that may cause flinching.
12	Magnet Rise	Electric	Status	—	—	The user levitates for five turns, negating Ground-type weaknesses.
16	Flash Cannon	Steel	Special	80	100	A Steel-type attack that may lower the target’s Special Defense.
26	Take Down	Normal	Physical	90	85	A reckless charge attack that also hurts the user.
34	Psychic	Psychic	Special	90	100	A powerful Psychic-type attack.
42	Scary Face	Normal	Status	—	100	Sharply lowers the target’s Speed stat.
52	Meteor Mash	Steel	Physical	90	90	A signature Steel-type move with a chance to raise the user’s Attack.
62	Iron Defense	Steel	Status	—	—	Drastically raises the user’s Defense stat.
72	Agility	Psychic	Status	—	—	Sharply raises the user’s Speed stat.
82	Hyper Beam	Normal	Special	150	90	A powerful Normal-type attack that requires a recharge turn.

1.2 TM Moves: Expanding the Arsenal

Technical Machines (TMs) provide Metagross with a vast array of moves, allowing trainers to customize its move set to counter specific threats and adapt to different battle strategies. TMs can teach Metagross moves from various types, enhancing its coverage and versatility.

TM	Move	Type	Category	Power	Accuracy
01	Take Down	Normal	Physical	90	85
04	Agility	Psychic	Status	—	—
05	Mud-Slap	Ground	Special	20	100
06	Scary Face	Normal	Status	—	100
07	Protect	Normal	Status	—	—
20	Trailblaze	Grass	Physical	50	100
25	Facade	Normal	Physical	70	100
27	Aerial Ace	Flying	Physical	60	—
28	Bulldoze	Ground	Physical	60	100
31	Metal Claw	Steel	Physical	50	95
32	Swift	Normal	Special	60	—
34	Icy Wind	Ice	Special	55	95
36	Rock Tomb	Rock	Physical	60	95
47	Endure	Normal	Status	—	—
49	Sunny Day	Fire	Status	—	—
50	Rain Dance	Water	Status	—	—
51	Sandstorm	Rock	Status	—	—
54	Psyshock	Psychic	Special	80	100
58	Brick Break	Fighting	Physical	75	100
59	Zen Headbutt	Psychic	Physical	80	90
61	Shadow Claw	Ghost	Physical	70	100
63	Psychic Fangs	Psychic	Physical	85	100
66	Body Slam	Normal	Physical	85	100
68	Thunder Punch	Electric	Physical	75	100
69	Ice Punch	Ice	Physical	75	100
70	Sleep Talk	Normal	Status	—	—
74	Reflect	Psychic	Status	—	—
75	Light Screen	Psychic	Status	—	—
81	Grass Knot	Grass	Special	—	100
84	Stomping Tantrum	Ground	Physical	75	100
85	Rest	Psychic	Status	—	—
86	Rock Slide	Rock	Physical	75	90
89	Body Press	Fighting	Physical	80	100
93	Flash Cannon	Steel	Special	80	100
99	Iron Head	Steel	Physical	80	100
103	Substitute	Normal	Status	—	—
104	Iron Defense	Steel	Status	—	—
109	Trick	Psychic	Status	—	100
114	Shadow Ball	Ghost	Special	80	100
116	Stealth Rock	Rock	Status	—	—
120	Psychic	Psychic	Special	90	100
121	Heavy Slam	Steel	Physical	—	100
148	Sludge Bomb	Poison	Special	90	100
149	Earthquake	Ground	Physical	100	100
150	Stone Edge	Rock	Physical	100	80
152	Giga Impact	Normal	Physical	150	90
163	Hyper Beam	Normal	Special	150	90
170	Steel Beam	Steel	Special	140	95
171	Tera Blast	Normal	Special	80	100
178	Gravity	Psychic	Status	—	—
180	Gyro Ball	Steel	Physical	—	100
181	Knock Off	Dark	Physical	65	100
192	Focus Punch	Fighting	Physical	150	100
203	Psych Up	Normal	Status	—	—
204	Double-Edge	Normal	Physical	120	100
217	Future Sight	Psychic	Special	120	100
218	Expanding Force	Psychic	Special	80	100
220	Meteor Beam	Rock	Special	120	90
225	Hard Press	Steel	Physical	—	100
228	Psychic Noise	Psychic	Special	75	100

1.3 Move Tutor Moves: Legacy and Utility

In some Pokémon games, Move Tutors offer special moves that aren’t available through leveling up or TMs. While the availability of Move Tutors varies between generations, they often provide access to valuable coverage or utility moves.
Unfortunately, the article lacks move tutor information.

1.4 Can Metagross Learn Earthquake?

Yes, Metagross can learn Earthquake through Technical Machines (TMs). Earthquake is a powerful Ground-type move with a base power of 100 and perfect accuracy, making it an excellent option for Metagross to deal with Pokémon that are weak to Ground-type attacks, such as Fire, Electric, Rock, Steel and Poison types. This is particularly useful for Metagross, as it expands its coverage and allows it to hit opponents that resist its Steel and Psychic moves for significant damage.

2. The Strategic Importance of Earthquake on Metagross

Earthquake provides Metagross with significant strategic advantages, enhancing its versatility and effectiveness in battle. By adding a strong Ground-type move to its arsenal, Metagross becomes a more unpredictable and potent threat.

2.1 Enhanced Type Coverage

Metagross, being a Steel/Psychic type, naturally struggles against certain types like Fire, Electric, Rock, Steel and Poison. Earthquake provides crucial coverage against these threats, allowing Metagross to deal super-effective damage to Pokémon that resist its primary moves. This expanded coverage makes Metagross a more well-rounded and less predictable opponent.

2.2 Dealing with Common Threats

Many common Pokémon in competitive battles are weak to Ground-type moves. Including Earthquake in Metagross’s move set enables it to counter these popular choices effectively. For instance, it can OHKO (one-hit knockout) many Fire and Electric-type Pokémon, which are frequently used for their offensive capabilities.

2.3 Improved Matchup Scenarios

Earthquake can significantly improve Metagross’s performance in various matchup scenarios. Consider the following:

• Against Steel Types: Steel-type Pokémon resist Metagross’s Steel-type attacks. Earthquake allows Metagross to bypass this resistance and inflict substantial damage.
• Against Fire Types: Fire types can deal super-effective damage to Metagross. Earthquake provides a powerful counterattack, turning a disadvantageous matchup into a favorable one.
• Against Electric Types: Electric-type Pokémon can paralyze Metagross and exploit its weaknesses. Earthquake offers a strong offensive option to quickly eliminate these threats.
• Against Rock Types: Metagross can effectively deal with rock types using Earthquake.

2.4 Offensive Pressure

With Earthquake, Metagross can apply significant offensive pressure on the opponent, forcing them to make strategic decisions to avoid being knocked out. This pressure can disrupt the opponent’s strategy and create opportunities for Metagross and its teammates to gain an advantage.

2.5 Team Synergy

Earthquake can also synergize well with other Pokémon on the team. In double battles, it’s important to note that Earthquake hits all Pokémon on the field, including allies. Therefore, careful team composition and strategic planning are essential to maximize the benefits of Earthquake while minimizing the risks to teammates.

3. Optimizing Metagross’s Move Set with Earthquake

To effectively utilize Earthquake on Metagross, it’s essential to consider its move set, ability, nature, and held item. A well-optimized Metagross can become a formidable force in battles.

3.1 Recommended Move Sets

Here are several recommended move sets for Metagross that include Earthquake:

1. Offensive Powerhouse:

   • Meteor Mash (Steel)
   • Earthquake (Ground)
   • Zen Headbutt (Psychic)
   • Agility (Psychic)
     This set maximizes Metagross’s offensive potential, providing strong STAB (Same-Type Attack Bonus) moves and Earthquake for coverage. Agility boosts Speed, allowing Metagross to outspeed and OHKO opponents.

2. Defensive Tank:

   • Iron Defense (Steel)
   • Earthquake (Ground)
   • Body Press (Fighting)
   • Rest (Psychic)
     This set focuses on Metagross’s defensive capabilities, using Iron Defense to raise Defense and Body Press to deal damage based on that stat. Earthquake provides coverage, and Rest offers recovery.

3. Coverage Specialist:

   • Meteor Mash (Steel)
   • Earthquake (Ground)
   • Ice Punch (Ice)
   • Thunder Punch (Electric)

   This set provides comprehensive coverage against various types, making Metagross a versatile threat. Earthquake targets Fire, Electric, Rock, Steel and Poison types, while the elemental punches hit other common weaknesses.

Metagross artwork showcasing its strength

3.2 Ability Considerations

Metagross has two abilities: Clear Body and Light Metal (Hidden Ability).

• Clear Body: Prevents other Pokémon from lowering its stats. This ability is useful in preventing stat drops from moves like Intimidate or moves that lower stats as a side effect.
• Light Metal: Halves the Pokémon’s weight. This ability can be useful in certain situations, such as reducing damage from weight-based moves like Low Kick and Grass Knot.

3.3 Nature Optimization

The nature of Metagross can further enhance its performance. Here are some recommended natures:

• Adamant: (+Attack, -Special Attack) This nature maximizes Metagross’s physical attack power, making its physical moves, including Earthquake and Meteor Mash, more potent.
• Jolly: (+Speed, -Special Attack) This nature increases Metagross’s speed, allowing it to outspeed more opponents and strike first. This is particularly useful for offensive sets that rely on speed to sweep.
• Impish: (+Defense, -Special Attack) This nature increases Metagross’s defense, enhancing its ability to withstand physical attacks. This is beneficial for defensive sets that use Iron Defense and Body Press.

3.4 Held Items

The held item can provide additional benefits to Metagross. Some recommended items include:

• Choice Band: Boosts the power of physical moves but locks the user into one move. This item is ideal for offensive sets that aim to OHKO opponents.
• Assault Vest: Boosts Special Defense but prevents the use of status moves. This item is suitable for sets that focus on both offense and special defense.
• Leftovers: Restores a small amount of HP each turn. This item is useful for increasing Metagross’s longevity in battle, particularly for defensive sets.
• Life Orb: Boosts the power of moves but slightly damages the user. This item is a good option for offensive sets that want to maximize damage output.

4. Metagross in Competitive Battles

Metagross is a formidable contender in competitive Pokémon battles, particularly in formats that allow the use of TMs and a wide range of strategies. Understanding how to use Metagross effectively in different competitive environments can significantly improve your win rate.

4.1 Singles Battles

In singles battles, Metagross can function as a powerful offensive or defensive Pokémon, depending on its move set and strategy.

• Offensive Sweeper: With an Adamant or Jolly nature, Choice Band or Life Orb, and moves like Meteor Mash, Earthquake, and Zen Headbutt, Metagross can sweep through weakened teams. Agility can be used to outspeed opponents and secure crucial KOs.
• Bulky Attacker: With an Impish nature, Assault Vest, and moves like Iron Defense, Body Press, and Earthquake, Metagross can withstand attacks while dealing consistent damage. This set is effective against teams that rely on special attacks.
• Stealth Rock Setter: Metagross can also be used to set up Stealth Rock, providing valuable entry hazards that damage opponents upon switching in. This strategy is useful for teams that rely on wearing down the opponent over time.

4.2 Doubles Battles

In doubles battles, Metagross requires careful team support and strategic planning to maximize its effectiveness.

• Earthquake User: Using Earthquake in doubles battles can be risky, as it hits allies as well. However, with Pokémon that are immune to Ground-type moves (such as Flying types or Pokémon with the Levitate ability), Metagross can use Earthquake to deal significant damage to both opponents.
• Support Role: Metagross can provide support to its teammate with moves like Reflect and Light Screen, increasing the team’s overall survivability. It can also use moves like Iron Head and Zen Headbutt to target specific threats.
• Trick Room Team: In Trick Room teams, where slower Pokémon move first, Metagross can be a powerful attacker due to its relatively low speed. Pairing Metagross with a Trick Room setter can create a formidable offensive core.

4.3 Common Counters and How to Deal with Them

Despite its strengths, Metagross has several common counters that can pose a threat. Understanding these counters and how to address them is crucial for success.

• Fire Types: Fire-type Pokémon can deal super-effective damage to Metagross with moves like Flare Blitz and Fire Blast. Using Earthquake to counterattack is essential.
• Dark Types: Dark-type Pokémon resist Metagross’s Psychic-type moves and can deal significant damage with moves like Knock Off and Crunch. Having a coverage move like Brick Break can help address this weakness.
• Ghost Types: Ghost-type Pokémon are immune to Metagross’s Normal-type moves and can deal super-effective damage with moves like Shadow Ball. A move like Shadow Claw can provide coverage against Ghost types.
• Status Conditions: Status conditions like burn and paralysis can severely hinder Metagross’s performance. Using a Lum Berry or having a teammate that can provide status healing can help mitigate these effects.

5. Fun Facts and Trivia About Metagross

Metagross is not only a powerful Pokémon but also has a rich history and interesting facts associated with it.

• Design Origin: Metagross’s design is based on a combination of a supercomputer and a metallic being. Its four brains give it the intelligence of a supercomputer, as described in its Pokédex entries.
• Evolution Line: Metagross is the final evolution of Beldum, which evolves into Metang at level 20, and then into Metagross at level 45. This evolution line is known for its consistent Steel/Psychic typing and increasing power.
• Mega Evolution: Metagross has a Mega Evolution, Mega Metagross, which further enhances its stats and abilities. Mega Metagross has the Tough Claws ability, which boosts the power of contact moves.
• Shiny Form: Metagross’s shiny form is silver instead of blue, making it a visually striking and sought-after Pokémon.

6. Engaging with the LEARNS.EDU.VN Community

At LEARNS.EDU.VN, we are committed to providing comprehensive and engaging educational content to help you enhance your Pokémon training skills.

6.1 Share Your Experiences

We encourage you to share your experiences with Metagross and Earthquake in the comments section below. What strategies have you found most effective? What challenges have you faced, and how did you overcome them? Your insights can help other trainers optimize their use of Metagross and improve their competitive performance.

6.2 Ask Questions and Seek Advice

If you have any questions about Metagross, Earthquake, or any other aspect of Pokémon training, feel free to ask. Our team of experts and community members are here to provide advice and support.

6.3 Explore Additional Resources

Visit LEARNS.EDU.VN for more articles, guides, and resources to help you become a better Pokémon trainer. We offer content on a wide range of topics, including move set optimization, team building, competitive strategies, and more.

7. Why Choose LEARNS.EDU.VN for Your Pokémon Education

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9. Step-by-Step Guide to Teaching Metagross Earthquake

Teaching Metagross the move Earthquake involves several straightforward steps. Here’s a detailed guide to help you through the process:

9.1. Obtain the Earthquake TM

The first step is to acquire the Technical Machine (TM) for Earthquake. The method for obtaining this TM varies depending on the Pokémon game you are playing:

• In Pokémon Scarlet and Violet: You can find TM149 (Earthquake) in various locations throughout the game world, such as Area Zero. It can also be crafted at a TM Machine using materials obtained from defeating Pokémon and League Points (LP).
• In Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl: TM26 (Earthquake) can be found in Victory Road. Additionally, it can be purchased from the Veilstone Department Store after obtaining the National Pokédex.

9.2. Access Your Pokémon

Open your game menu and navigate to the Pokémon section. Select Metagross from your party.

9.3. Teach Metagross Earthquake

1. Select Metagross: Choose Metagross from your party.
2. Choose TM: Select the Earthquake TM from your bag.
3. Teach the Move: Use the TM on Metagross. You may need to replace an existing move if Metagross has already learned four moves. Select the move you wish to replace with Earthquake.
   • Ensure Compatibility: Confirm that Metagross can learn the move from the TM. As discussed earlier, Metagross is compatible with the Earthquake TM.

9.4. Verify the New Move Set

After teaching Metagross Earthquake, verify its move set to ensure the new move is correctly added. You can do this by checking Metagross’s summary in the Pokémon menu.

10. Key Takeaways for Mastering Metagross with Earthquake

• Strategic Move Selection:
  Consider the strategic advantages of Earthquake for Metagross, including enhanced type coverage and improved matchup scenarios against Fire, Electric, Rock, Steel and Poison types.
• Move Set Optimization:
  Optimize Metagross’s move set by combining Earthquake with other powerful moves like Meteor Mash, Zen Headbutt, and coverage moves like Ice Punch and Thunder Punch.
• Ability and Nature Synergies:
  Choose the right ability (Clear Body or Light Metal) and nature (Adamant, Jolly, or Impish) to maximize Metagross’s potential based on its role in your team.
• Competitive Battling Strategies:
  Utilize Metagross effectively in both singles and doubles battles, considering its strengths and weaknesses, and addressing common counters like Fire and Dark types.
• Continuous Learning:
  Stay engaged with the LEARNS.EDU.VN community to share your experiences, ask questions, and explore additional resources to further develop your Pokémon training skills.

FAQ: Mastering Metagross and Earthquake

1. Can Metagross learn Earthquake in every Pokémon game?

Metagross can learn Earthquake via TM in many Pokémon games, but availability may vary. Always check the TM compatibility for the specific game you’re playing.

2. What are the best natures for Metagross when using Earthquake?

Adamant (+Attack, -Sp. Atk) is great for maximizing physical damage output, while Jolly (+Speed, -Sp. Atk) helps Metagross outspeed opponents. Impish (+Defense, -Sp. Atk) is useful for a defensive build.

3. How does Earthquake benefit Metagross in battle?

Earthquake provides excellent coverage against Fire, Electric, Rock, Steel and Poison types, which can threaten Metagross due to its Steel/Psychic typing.

4. What held item should I give Metagross when using Earthquake?

Choice Band boosts physical attack power, Assault Vest increases Special Defense, Leftovers provide HP recovery, and Life Orb boosts move power at the cost of HP. The best choice depends on your strategy.

5. How can I protect my team when using Earthquake in double battles?

Use Pokémon with Levitate or those that are Flying-type to avoid damage from Earthquake. Strategic positioning and move prediction are also crucial.

6. What are some good teammates for Metagross in competitive battles?

Good teammates include Pokémon that can cover Metagross’s weaknesses, such as Fire, Dark and Ghost types, and those that benefit from Earthquake, like Flying types or Pokémon with Levitate.

7. How do I counter common threats to Metagross, like Fire types?

Use Earthquake to deal super-effective damage to Fire types. Additionally, having a teammate that can handle Fire types is beneficial.

8. What is the best way to EV train Metagross for competitive battles?

For an offensive set, focus on Attack and Speed EVs. For a defensive set, invest in HP and Defense EVs. Tailor the EV spread to your specific strategy and team composition.

9. Where can I find more information about competitive Pokémon battling?

Visit LEARNS.EDU.VN for comprehensive guides, strategy articles, and community forums to enhance your competitive Pokémon battling skills. Contact us at 123 Education Way, Learnville, CA 90210, United States. Whatsapp: +1 555-555-1212 or visit our website: LEARNS.EDU.VN.

10. What other Ground-type moves can Metagross learn besides Earthquake?

Besides Earthquake, Metagross can learn Bulldoze and Stomping Tantrum via TM, providing alternative Ground-type options with different power and utility.

By mastering these aspects, you can significantly enhance Metagross’s performance and become a more skilled Pokémon trainer. Remember to visit learns.edu.vn for more resources and guides to support your Pokémon journey.