Flash, a crucial move in earlier Pokemon generations for navigating dark caves, has undergone significant changes throughout the series. This guide delves into which Pokemon can learn Flash, how they learn it (TM, HM, or level-up), and the move’s evolution across different generations.
Learning Flash: Methods and Pokemon
While Flash was once a vital HM (Hidden Machine), its accessibility has shifted over time. Most Pokemon acquire Flash through a TM (Technical Machine), specifically TM70. However, a select few learn it through leveling up.
Level-Up Learners:
- Volbeat: This Pokemon, introduced in Generation 4, naturally learns Flash as it levels up.
- Morelull and Shiinotic: These Grass/Fairy types also learn Flash through leveling.
- Kadabra and Alakazam: In the “Let’s Go Pikachu” and “Let’s Go Eevee” games, these Psychic types gained the ability to learn Flash by leveling up.
TM Learners:
The vast majority of Pokemon capable of learning Flash do so via TM70. This includes a wide variety of species across different types, such as Pikachu, Raichu, Bulbasaur, Ivysaur, Venusaur, and many more. Refer to the table below for a more extensive list.
Flash Through the Generations: Changes and Effects
Flash hasn’t remained static throughout the Pokemon games. Its effects and learning methods have seen notable changes.
Generations 1-3:
- Flash was HM05.
- It had 70% accuracy.
- Its primary effect was lowering the target’s accuracy by one stage.
- It illuminated entire caves, reverting to normal upon exiting.
Generation 4 Onwards:
- Flash became TM70.
- Its accuracy increased to 100%.
- It illuminates the area around the player, not the entire cave.
Generation 7:
- A significant change occurred, making Flash unusable outside of battle. Its in-battle effect remained.
Z-Flash:
In Generation 7, Pokemon holding Normalium Z and using Z-Power can transform Flash into Z-Flash. This enhanced move raises the user’s Evasiveness by one stage.
Complete List of Flash-Learning Pokemon
The table below showcases a partial list of Pokemon that can learn Flash, along with their learning method (HM/TM or Level Up).
| ID | Pokemon | Learnset |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bulbasaur | HM/TM |
| 2 | Ivysaur | HM/TM |
| 3 | Venusaur | HM/TM |
| … | … | … |
This table represents a portion of the extensive list of Pokemon capable of learning Flash. Consulting resources like Bulbapedia can provide a comprehensive list.
Conclusion
While Flash may no longer be essential for cave navigation in later games, understanding which Pokemon can learn it and its evolving mechanics provides valuable insight into the game’s history and strategic depth. Whether learned through TM, level-up, or utilized as Z-Flash, Flash remains a fascinating move with a unique legacy in the Pokemon world.
