Magikarp, the iconic fish Pokémon, is notorious for its perceived weakness. But what moves can this seemingly helpless creature actually learn? This guide dives deep into Magikarp’s movepool across different Pokémon games, exploring its level-up moves, TM compatibility, and any potential egg moves. Understanding Magikarp’s capabilities is crucial for trainers who want to nurture it into its powerful evolution, Gyarados.
Magikarp’s simple appearance belies its potential for evolution.
Magikarp’s Movepool: Level-Up Moves
Magikarp’s movepool is quite limited, especially in its early stages. Here’s a breakdown of the moves it learns by leveling up in recent games:
Pokémon Scarlet and Violet:
- Level 1: Splash (Normal Type) – This infamous move doesn’t inflict damage, serving mainly as a placeholder until Magikarp learns more effective attacks.
- Level 15: Tackle (Normal Type) – A basic physical attack that makes contact with the opponent.
- Level 25: Flail (Normal Type) – A physical attack that becomes more powerful the lower Magikarp’s HP is.
Pokémon Legends: Arceus:
- Level 1: Splash (Normal Type) – The signature move of Magikarp, but still non-damaging in this game.
As you can see, Magikarp’s level-up movepool provides it with only a few attacking options before it evolves.
TMs and Egg Moves: Do They Exist for Magikarp?
Unfortunately, Magikarp is unable to learn any moves through TMs (Technical Machines) in any of the games. This further restricts its potential in battle before evolution. Similarly, Magikarp doesn’t learn any moves through breeding, meaning it has no egg moves to inherit.
Why is Magikarp’s Movepool So Limited?
Magikarp’s limited movepool emphasizes its status as a weak Pokémon early on. This design choice highlights the dramatic transformation it undergoes upon evolving into Gyarados, a powerful Water/Flying type with a diverse and potent movepool. The stark contrast between Magikarp’s and Gyarados’ capabilities reinforces the core concept of evolution within the Pokémon world. Training a Magikarp requires patience and dedication, but the reward is a formidable Pokémon capable of dominating battles.
Magikarp evolves into Gyarados at level 20.
From Splash to Strength: The Transformation of Magikarp
While Magikarp’s initial movepool might seem discouraging, remember its evolutionary potential. At level 20, Magikarp evolves into Gyarados, gaining access to a much wider range of moves, including powerful Water, Flying, and Dragon-type attacks. This transformation is a testament to the potential hidden within even the seemingly weakest Pokémon.
Conclusion: Magikarp’s Moves and its Evolutionary Journey
Magikarp’s limited movepool, consisting primarily of Splash, Tackle, and Flail, reinforces its reputation as a weak Pokémon. However, its inability to learn TMs or egg moves underscores the dramatic transformation it undergoes upon evolving into the powerful Gyarados. This evolution is a core element of Magikarp’s identity, highlighting the potential for growth and strength even in the most unassuming creatures.
