Bidoof, the plump mouse Pokémon, is indeed known for its HM compatibility, making it a surprisingly versatile choice for navigating the Pokémon world. LEARNS.EDU.VN can help you delve deeper into Bidoof’s capabilities, exploring its HM learnset, its usefulness in-game, and even some fun facts about this seemingly unassuming Pokémon, empowering you with the knowledge and strategies to master the world of Pokémon and beyond. This information will cover HM proficiency, gameplay strategies, and Pokémon facts.
1. What Exactly are HMs in the Pokémon World?
HMs, or Hidden Machines, are special moves in the Pokémon games that serve two purposes: they can be used in battle and are also essential for navigating the game’s overworld. Unlike TMs (Technical Machines), which can only be used once in older generations, HMs can be used infinitely. However, they often cannot be deleted from a Pokémon’s move set unless the Pokémon is brought to a Move Deleter. HMs are crucial for overcoming obstacles like bodies of water, dense forests, and rockslides, allowing players to explore the entire game world.
1.1. The Importance of HMs for Exploration
HMs are indispensable for progressing through the Pokémon games. They allow players to:
- Surf: Cross large bodies of water.
- Cut: Chop down small trees that block paths.
- Strength: Move large boulders.
- Fly: Instantly travel to previously visited towns.
- Waterfall: Ascend waterfalls.
- Dive: Explore underwater areas.
- Rock Smash: Break breakable rocks.
- Whirlpool: Traverse whirlpools.
Without these moves, many areas and secrets within the game remain inaccessible.
1.2. The Downside of HMs: Move Set Limitations
While HMs are necessary, they often have drawbacks. HMs often have limited combat effectiveness, which can be frustrating when they occupy valuable move slots. Because HMs could not be deleted easily, players had to carefully consider which Pokémon to teach them to. Game developers eventually phased out HMs in favor of more flexible move options and overworld abilities built into Pokémon.
2. Bidoof: The HM Master?
Bidoof gained notoriety in the Pokémon community for its unusual capacity to learn a wide variety of HMs. It’s not the strongest Pokémon in terms of stats, but its HM capabilities make it incredibly valuable for exploration.
2.1. Which HMs Can Bidoof Learn?
Bidoof and its evolution, Bibarel, can learn a surprising number of HMs, particularly in the Diamond, Pearl, and Platinum versions. The specific HMs Bidoof can learn vary slightly from game to game, but generally include:
- Cut
- Surf
- Strength
- Rock Smash
- Waterfall
- Defog
This extensive HM learnset makes Bidoof an excellent choice for an “HM slave” – a Pokémon whose primary purpose is to use HMs, freeing up valuable move slots on other Pokémon.
2.2. Why is Bidoof Such a Good HM User?
Several factors contribute to Bidoof’s popularity as an HM user:
- Availability: Bidoof is typically found early in the game, making it readily accessible.
- HM Compatibility: As mentioned, it can learn a wide variety of HMs.
- Evolution: Its evolution, Bibarel, maintains this HM compatibility and has slightly better stats, making it a more viable option for carrying HMs throughout the game.
2.3. Limitations: HMs Bidoof Cannot Learn
While Bidoof can learn many HMs, it’s important to note the HMs it cannot learn. In most games, Bidoof cannot learn:
- Fly
- Dive
- Whirlpool
Therefore, while Bidoof is versatile, players will still need other Pokémon to cover all HM requirements.
3. Bidoof’s Role in Pokémon Games: HM Slave or More?
Bidoof’s role in Pokémon games is often debated among fans. Is it just an HM slave, or does it have other merits?
3.1. The “HM Slave” Controversy
The term “HM slave” is often used derisively, implying that a Pokémon is only valuable for its ability to use HMs. Many players dislike the concept of HM slaves because it means dedicating a team slot to a Pokémon that isn’t particularly strong in battle.
3.2. Bidoof’s Potential Beyond HMs
Despite its reputation, Bidoof does have some potential beyond being an HM slave:
- Early Game Utility: Bidoof can be useful in the early game due to its availability and decent move pool.
- Bibarel’s Capabilities: Bibarel, with better stats and access to moves like Waterfall and Aqua Jet, can be a decent Water-type Pokémon for certain battles.
- Niche Strategies: Some players have found success using Bibarel in niche strategies, such as setting up with Curse or using Simple to double stat boosts.
3.3. Balancing HM Usage and Battle Viability
The key to effectively using Bidoof or Bibarel is to balance their HM usage with their battle viability. While they may not be the strongest Pokémon, they can still contribute to a team if used strategically. Consider teaching them TMs that complement their move pool and cover their weaknesses.
4. The Evolution from Bidoof to Bibarel
Bidoof evolves into Bibarel starting at level 15. Bibarel is a Normal/Water-type Pokémon with improved stats and a more diverse move pool.
4.1. Stat Comparison: Bidoof vs. Bibarel
Here’s a comparison of Bidoof and Bibarel’s base stats:
| Stat | Bidoof | Bibarel |
|---|---|---|
| HP | 59 | 79 |
| Attack | 45 | 85 |
| Defense | 40 | 60 |
| Special Attack | 35 | 55 |
| Special Defense | 40 | 60 |
| Speed | 31 | 71 |
| Total | 250 | 410 |
As you can see, Bibarel has significantly higher stats across the board, making it a much more viable Pokémon in battle.
4.2. Bibarel’s Move Pool
In addition to the HMs it can learn, Bibarel has access to a variety of useful moves, including:
- Aqua Jet (Water): A priority move that allows Bibarel to strike first.
- Waterfall (Water): A strong Water-type move with a chance to make the target flinch.
- Return (Normal): A powerful Normal-type move that increases in power with friendship.
- Superpower (Fighting): A strong Fighting-type move that lowers Attack and Defense after use.
- Curse (Ghost): Lowers Speed, but raises Attack and Defense.
4.3. Strategies for Using Bibarel Effectively
To make the most of Bibarel, consider these strategies:
- HM Utility: Continue to use Bibarel for HM support, freeing up other team members.
- Priority Attack: Use Aqua Jet to deal quick damage and potentially outspeed faster opponents.
- Stat Boosting: Set up with Curse to increase Attack and Defense, making Bibarel a more formidable physical attacker.
- Type Coverage: Teach Bibarel TMs that cover its weaknesses, such as Thunderbolt for Water-types or Ice Beam for Grass-types.
5. Bidoof and Bibarel in Competitive Play
While Bidoof and Bibarel are not typically considered top-tier competitive Pokémon, they can still be used in certain formats and strategies.
5.1. Niche Uses in Lower Tiers
In lower competitive tiers, such as NU (Never Used) or PU (Poorly Used), Bibarel can find a niche as a bulky attacker or utility Pokémon. Its access to priority moves, decent stats, and HM compatibility make it a viable option for certain teams.
5.2. Strategies for Competitive Success
To succeed with Bibarel in competitive play, consider these strategies:
- Simple Ability: Bibarel’s Hidden Ability, Simple, doubles the effect of stat changes. This can be used to great effect with moves like Curse or Amnesia, quickly boosting Bibarel’s stats.
- Belly Drum: Although risky, Belly Drum can maximize Bibarel’s Attack stat, making it a powerful offensive threat.
- Choice Band/Choice Scarf: Equip Bibarel with a Choice Band or Choice Scarf to boost its Attack or Speed, respectively.
5.3. Team Synergy
As with any Pokémon, team synergy is crucial for success in competitive play. Build a team that supports Bibarel’s strengths and covers its weaknesses. Consider pairing it with Pokémon that can set up entry hazards, provide status support, or cover its type weaknesses.
6. Fun Facts and Trivia About Bidoof
Bidoof has become a beloved Pokémon in the community, spawning memes, fan art, and even its own dedicated fanbase.
Bidoof meme
6.1. Bidoof’s Design and Inspiration
Bidoof’s design is based on a beaver, a rodent known for its dam-building abilities. This is reflected in Bidoof’s Normal typing and its tendency to chew on things in the game world.
6.2. Bidoof’s Popularity in the Pokémon Community
Despite its initially perceived weakness, Bidoof has become a popular Pokémon among fans. Its derpy appearance, HM utility, and surprising versatility have endeared it to many players.
6.3. Bidoof in Pokémon Media
Bidoof has appeared in various Pokémon media, including the anime, manga, and trading card game. It is often portrayed as a clumsy but lovable Pokémon, further contributing to its popularity.
7. HM Alternatives in Modern Pokémon Games
In recent Pokémon games, HMs have been replaced by more convenient methods of traversal. This change has been met with mixed reactions from fans, with some appreciating the increased flexibility and others lamenting the loss of a traditional gameplay element.
7.1. Ride Pokémon
In games like Sun and Moon and Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon, HMs were replaced by Ride Pokémon. These Pokémon could be summoned to perform tasks such as crossing water, breaking rocks, and flying, without needing to be taught specific moves.
7.2. Key Items and Abilities
Other games, such as Sword and Shield and Scarlet and Violet, have incorporated traversal abilities into key items or the Pokémon themselves. For example, in Scarlet and Violet, the player’s Legendary Pokémon, Koraidon or Miraidon, can learn abilities like swimming and gliding, eliminating the need for HMs altogether.
7.3. Pros and Cons of HM Replacement
The replacement of HMs has several advantages:
- Increased Team Flexibility: Players are no longer forced to dedicate team slots to HM slaves.
- More Diverse Move Pools: Pokémon can learn more competitive moves without being burdened by HMs.
- Streamlined Gameplay: Traversal is more seamless and less restrictive.
However, some players miss the challenge and sense of progression that HMs provided. HMs added a layer of exploration and discovery to the games, which has been lost in the modern, more streamlined approach.
8. Conclusion: Bidoof’s Legacy
Whether you view it as an HM slave, a niche competitive Pokémon, or simply a lovable mascot, Bidoof has undoubtedly left its mark on the Pokémon world. Its HM compatibility, surprising versatility, and endearing design have made it a fan favorite for many years.
8.1. Bidoof’s Enduring Appeal
Despite the phasing out of HMs in modern Pokémon games, Bidoof’s legacy lives on. It remains a popular choice for playthroughs, challenge runs, and fan creations.
8.2. The Importance of Versatility in Pokémon
Bidoof exemplifies the importance of versatility in Pokémon. While it may not be the strongest Pokémon in terms of raw power, its ability to adapt and fill multiple roles makes it a valuable asset to any team.
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9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Bidoof and HMs
9.1. Can Bidoof Learn Every HM in Every Pokémon Game?
No, Bidoof cannot learn every HM in every Pokémon game. Its HM learnset varies slightly depending on the game, but it typically includes Cut, Surf, Strength, Rock Smash, and Waterfall. It cannot learn Fly, Dive, or Whirlpool in most games.
9.2. Is Bidoof a Good Pokémon for Competitive Battles?
While not typically considered a top-tier competitive Pokémon, Bibarel, Bidoof’s evolution, can be used in lower tiers with niche strategies. Its Simple ability and access to priority moves make it a viable option for certain teams.
9.3. What is an “HM Slave”?
An “HM slave” is a Pokémon whose primary purpose is to use HMs, freeing up valuable move slots on other Pokémon. Bidoof is often used as an HM slave due to its wide HM compatibility.
9.4. What are the Best Moves to Teach Bibarel?
In addition to HMs, good moves to teach Bibarel include Aqua Jet, Waterfall, Return, Superpower, and Curse. The specific moveset will depend on your strategy and team composition.
9.5. How Do I Evolve Bidoof into Bibarel?
Bidoof evolves into Bibarel starting at level 15. Simply level up Bidoof to level 15 or higher, and it will automatically evolve.
9.6. Why Did Pokémon Games Stop Using HMs?
Pokémon games stopped using HMs to increase team flexibility, allow for more diverse move pools, and streamline gameplay. Modern games use Ride Pokémon, key items, or built-in abilities to handle traversal.
9.7. What is Bidoof’s Hidden Ability?
Bidoof’s Hidden Ability is Simple, which doubles the effect of stat changes. This can be used to great effect with moves like Curse or Amnesia.
9.8. Is Bidoof Based on a Real Animal?
Yes, Bidoof is based on a beaver, a rodent known for its dam-building abilities.
9.9. Where Can I Find Bidoof in Pokémon Games?
Bidoof is typically found early in the game, often in forests, near water, or in grassy areas. The specific location will vary depending on the game.
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