Flash, a crucial move in earlier Pokemon games for navigating dark caves, has undergone significant changes throughout the generations. While no longer essential for exploration in recent titles, understanding which Pokemon can learn Flash remains relevant for battling and appreciating the move’s historical significance. This guide provides a comprehensive list of Pokemon capable of learning Flash, detailing how they acquire the move.
Learning Flash: TM, HM, or Level Up?
The vast majority of Pokemon learn Flash through Technical Machines (TMs) or Hidden Machines (HMs). Specifically, Flash was available as HM05 in Generations 1-3 and as TM70 from Generation 4 onwards. However, a select few Pokemon can learn Flash naturally by leveling up. These include:
- Volbeat: This Generation 4 Pokemon learns Flash upon reaching a certain level.
- Morelull and Shiinotic: These Generation 7 Pokemon also learn Flash by leveling up.
- Kadabra and Alakazam: With the release of Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee!, these Psychic-type Pokemon gained the ability to learn Flash through leveling.
Flash Through the Generations: Changes and Effects
Flash’s functionality and effects have evolved across different Pokemon generations:
- Generations 1-3: Flash functioned as HM05, had 70% accuracy, and lowered the target’s accuracy by one stage in battle. It illuminated entire caves, reverting to normal upon exiting.
- Generation 4 Onwards: Flash transitioned to TM70, boasting 100% accuracy. The in-cave illumination changed, only lighting the area surrounding the player. With a Normalium Z, Flash transforms into Z-Flash, raising the user’s evasiveness by one stage.
- Generation 7: A significant shift occurred, rendering Flash unusable outside of battles.
Extensive List of Flash-Capable Pokemon
The following table showcases a partial list of Pokemon that can learn Flash, primarily through HM/TM:
| ID | Pokemon | Learnset |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bulbasaur | HM/TM |
| 2 | Ivysaur | HM/TM |
| 3 | Venusaur | HM/TM |
| … | … | … |
| 48 | Jolteon | HM/TM |
| 49 | Porygon | HM/TM |
| 50 | Zapdos | HM/TM |
This list represents a portion of the extensive number of Pokemon capable of learning Flash. Consulting resources like Bulbapedia can provide a complete list.
Conclusion: Flash’s Enduring Legacy
While Flash may no longer be a vital tool for cave navigation, its impact on the Pokemon series remains. Understanding which Pokemon can learn this move provides valuable insight into team building strategies and the historical evolution of gameplay mechanics. The shift from HM to TM and the changes in its effects reflect the dynamic nature of the Pokemon world.
