Nidoking, the powerful Drill Pokémon, is a popular choice for trainers in the Pokémon world. But can this Poison/Ground-type Pokémon learn the Water-type move Surf? Let’s dive into Nidoking’s movepool and find out.
Nidoking artwork by Ken Sugimori
Debunking the Myth: Nidoking and Surf
Despite its strength and diverse movepool, Nidoking cannot learn Surf. This is primarily due to its typing. As a Poison/Ground type, Nidoking doesn’t have the natural affinity for Water-type moves that Pokémon like Water, Ice, or some Psychic types possess. Surf is a powerful Water-type move that allows Pokémon to travel across bodies of water and attack opponents with a surging wave. It’s a staple for many Water Pokémon, but unfortunately, it’s not accessible to Nidoking.
Nidoking’s Movepool: A Closer Look
While Nidoking can’t learn Surf, it boasts a wide array of moves covering various types and damage categories. Let’s explore some key moves Nidoking can learn:
Physical Moves:
- Earthquake: A powerful Ground-type move that inflicts significant damage. Benefiting from STAB (Same-Type Attack Bonus), this move becomes even stronger when used by Nidoking.
- Megahorn: A high-power Bug-type move that can deal substantial damage.
- Double Kick: A Fighting-type move that delivers two consecutive kicks.
- Poison Jab: A Poison-type move that can poison the opponent.
Special Moves:
- Earth Power: A strong Ground-type special attack. This move also receives STAB, making it a valuable asset to Nidoking’s arsenal.
- Sludge Wave: A powerful Poison-type special attack that can poison opponents.
- Flamethrower: A Fire-type special attack that can inflict burns.
- Ice Beam: An Ice-type special attack that can freeze opponents.
Coverage Moves:
Nidoking can learn moves like Thunderbolt, Thunder, and Focus Blast via TMs, providing coverage against various types that its primary Poison/Ground typing struggles against.
Why Surf Matters: Water-Type Advantages
Surf’s importance stems from its ability to traverse water and its effectiveness against common types like Fire, Ground, and Rock. These are types that Nidoking either resists or is weak to. Having a Water-type move would provide valuable coverage for Nidoking, but unfortunately, it’s not an option.
Conclusion: Alternative Strategies for Nidoking
While Nidoking can’t learn Surf, it compensates with a formidable movepool that offers diverse offensive options. Trainers should focus on maximizing Nidoking’s strengths by utilizing its powerful STAB moves and leveraging coverage moves learned through TMs to overcome type disadvantages. Despite the inability to learn Surf, Nidoking remains a potent offensive threat in battles. Remember to strategize and choose moves that complement Nidoking’s strengths to achieve victory.
