Breaking rocks in Pokemon X lets you uncover hidden items and encounter rare Pokemon. This guide from rockscapes.net will provide you with everything you need to know about smashing rocks, including where to find the Rock Smash move, which Pokemon can learn it, and the items and Pokemon you might discover. Let’s explore the best strategies for rock breaking, discover rare items, and even find some unique Pokemon hiding behind those stony barriers and enhance your gameplay with expert tips.
1. What Is Rock Smash and Where Do I Get It in Pokemon X?
Rock Smash is a move in Pokemon X that allows you to break certain rocks found throughout the Kalos region. You can find this Hidden Machine (HM) in Ambrette Town.
Acquiring Rock Smash
To get Rock Smash:
- Head to Ambrette Town: This coastal town is located on Route 8.
- Visit the Aquarium: Enter the Ambrette Aquarium.
- Talk to the Scientist: Inside, you’ll find a scientist who will give you the HM06, which contains Rock Smash.
Why Is Rock Smash Important?
Rock Smash is crucial for several reasons:
- Accessing New Areas: Some areas are blocked by breakable rocks, so Rock Smash is needed to explore them.
- Finding Items: Breaking rocks can reveal valuable items like Hard Stones, Star Pieces, and fossils.
- Encountering Pokemon: Certain Pokemon can only be found by smashing rocks.
2. Which Pokemon Can Learn Rock Smash?
Many Pokemon can learn Rock Smash, making it a versatile move for your team.
Common Rock Smash Learners
Here’s a list of some Pokemon that can learn Rock Smash:
- Fighting-Type Pokemon: Many Fighting-type Pokemon can learn Rock Smash due to its physical nature.
- Rock-Type Pokemon: Rock-type Pokemon can often learn Rock Smash.
- Other Pokemon: Several other Pokemon can learn Rock Smash, including some Water, Ground, and Normal-type Pokemon.
List of Pokemon That Can Learn Rock Smash
| Pokemon | Type |
|---|---|
| Bulbasaur | Grass/Poison |
| Ivysaur | Grass/Poison |
| Venusaur | Grass/Poison |
| Charmander | Fire |
| Charmeleon | Fire |
| Charizard | Fire/Flying |
| Squirtle | Water |
| Wartortle | Water |
| Blastoise | Water |
| Caterpie | Bug |
| Metapod | Bug |
| Butterfree | Bug/Flying |
| Weedle | Bug/Poison |
| Kakuna | Bug/Poison |
| Beedrill | Bug/Poison |
| Pidgey | Normal/Flying |
| Pidgeotto | Normal/Flying |
| Pidgeot | Normal/Flying |
| Rattata | Normal |
| Raticate | Normal |
| Spearow | Normal/Flying |
| Fearow | Normal/Flying |
| Ekans | Poison |
| Arbok | Poison |
| Pikachu | Electric |
| Raichu | Electric |
| Sandshrew | Ground |
| Sandslash | Ground |
| Nidoran♀ | Poison |
| Nidorina | Poison |
| Nidoqueen | Poison/Ground |
| Nidoran♂ | Poison |
| Nidorino | Poison |
| Nidoking | Poison/Ground |
| Clefairy | Fairy |
| Clefable | Fairy |
| Vulpix | Fire |
| Ninetales | Fire |
| Jigglypuff | Normal/Fairy |
| Wigglytuff | Normal/Fairy |
| Zubat | Poison/Flying |
| Golbat | Poison/Flying |
| Oddish | Grass/Poison |
| Gloom | Grass/Poison |
| Vileplume | Grass/Poison |
| Paras | Bug/Grass |
| Parasect | Bug/Grass |
| Venonat | Bug/Poison |
| Venomoth | Bug/Poison |
| Diglett | Ground |
| Dugtrio | Ground |
| Meowth | Normal |
| Persian | Normal |
| Psyduck | Water |
| Golduck | Water |
| Mankey | Fighting |
| Primeape | Fighting |
| Growlithe | Fire |
| Arcanine | Fire |
| Poliwag | Water |
| Poliwhirl | Water |
| Poliwrath | Water/Fighting |
| Abra | Psychic |
| Kadabra | Psychic/Water |
Tips for Choosing a Pokemon
- Type Coverage: Choose a Pokemon that provides good type coverage for your team.
- Strength: Opt for a Pokemon with high Attack stats to make breaking rocks easier.
- Secondary Effects: Some Pokemon have abilities that can help with exploration or battle.
3. Where Can I Find Breakable Rocks in Pokemon X?
Breakable rocks are scattered throughout the Kalos region.
Key Locations
Here are some notable locations where you can find rocks to smash:
- Route 8: This route has several rocks along the coastline.
- Route 12: Another route with a good number of breakable rocks.
- Route 13: Known for its Power Plant and rocky terrain.
- Route 18: Located near Couriway Town, this route is rich in smashable rocks.
- Ambrette Town: You can find a few rocks around the town itself.
- Cyllage City: Look for rocks near the Cyllage Gym.
- Azure Bay: This coastal area has several rocks to explore.
- Reflection Cave: A cave with reflective surfaces and breakable rocks.
- Terminus Cave: Located near Couriway Town, this cave is rich in smashable rocks.
- Victory Road: The final route before the Elite Four, filled with challenging trainers and breakable rocks.
Map of Rock Locations
While an exact map isn’t available in-game, exploring thoroughly in the areas mentioned above will reveal many breakable rocks.
4. What Items Can I Find By Breaking Rocks?
Breaking rocks can yield a variety of useful items.
Common Items
Here are some of the most common items you can find:
- Hard Stone: Boosts the power of Rock-type moves.
- Star Piece: Can be sold for a decent amount of money.
- Revive: Revives a fainted Pokemon with half HP.
- Ether: Restores 10 PP to a Pokemon move.
- Max Ether: Fully restores the PP of a selected move.
- Pearl: Another item that can be sold for money.
- Big Pearl: A more valuable version of the Pearl.
- Soft Sand: Increases the power of Ground-type moves.
- Max Revive: Fully revives a fainted Pokemon with full HP.
- Heart Scale: Can be exchanged for move relearning.
Rare Items
Keep an eye out for these rarer finds:
- Fossils: After defeating the Elite Four, you can find fossils like the Armor Fossil, Claw Fossil, Dome Fossil, Helix Fossil, Root Fossil, Skull Fossil, Cover Fossil, Plume Fossil and Old Amber. These can be revived into ancient Pokemon at the Ambrette Town Fossil Lab.
| Item | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Armor Fossil | Revive into Shieldon. | Glittering Cave (Post-Elite Four) |
| Claw Fossil | Revive into Anorith. | Glittering Cave (Post-Elite Four, X Only) |
| Cover Fossil | Revive into Tirtouga. | Glittering Cave (Post-Elite Four) |
| Dome Fossil | Revive into Kabuto. | Glittering Cave (Post-Elite Four, Y Only) |
| Helix Fossil | Revive into Omanyte. | Glittering Cave (Post-Elite Four, Y Only) |
| Old Amber | Revive into Aerodactyl. | Glittering Cave |
| Plume Fossil | Revive into Archen. | Glittering Cave (Post-Elite Four) |
| Root Fossil | Revive into Lileep. | Glittering Cave (Post-Elite Four, X Only) |
| Skull Fossil | Revive into Cranidos. | Glittering Cave (Post-Elite Four) |
Tips for Finding Items
- Revisit Areas: Rocks respawn when you leave and re-enter an area, so keep revisiting locations to find more items.
- Check Daily: Some rare items might have a higher chance of appearing on certain days.
- Use Item-Finding Abilities: Pokemon with abilities like Compound Eyes can increase the chances of finding items.
5. What Pokemon Can I Encounter By Breaking Rocks?
In addition to items, breaking rocks can lead to encounters with specific Pokemon.
Common Pokemon Encounters
Here are some Pokemon you might find:
- Dwebble: A Bug/Rock-type Pokemon.
- Graveler: A Rock/Ground-type Pokemon.
- Slugma: A Fire-type Pokemon.
- Shuckle: A Bug/Rock-type Pokemon.
- Binacle: A Rock/Water-type Pokemon.
- Onix: A Rock/Ground-type Pokemon.
Location-Specific Encounters
The Pokemon you find can vary depending on the location:
- Route 8, Route 12, Ambrette Town, Azure Bay: Dwebble and Binacle.
- Cyllage City: Dwebble and Onix (in Pokemon X). Dwebble and Binacle (in Pokemon Y).
- Route 13: Graveler and Slugma.
- Route 18, Terminus Cave, Victory Road: Graveler and Shuckle.
Tips for Catching Pokemon
- Prepare Your Team: Bring Pokemon with moves that can inflict status conditions like Paralysis or Sleep to make catching easier.
- Use Different Poke Balls: Carry a variety of Poke Balls, such as Great Balls, Ultra Balls, and Net Balls, to increase your chances of catching Pokemon.
- Weaken the Pokemon: Lower the Pokemon’s HP before throwing a Poke Ball, but be careful not to knock it out.
6. How Does Rock Smash Work in Battle?
Rock Smash is a Fighting-type move that can be used in battles.
Move Details
- Type: Fighting
- Category: Physical
- Power: 40
- Accuracy: 100%
- Effect: Has a 50% chance of lowering the target’s Defense stat by one stage.
Strategic Use
- Lowering Defense: Use Rock Smash to weaken opponents with high Defense stats.
- Type Advantage: Use it against Rock, Steel, Ice, Normal and Dark-type Pokemon for super-effective damage.
- Breaking Rocks in the Overworld: Essential for exploring and finding items/Pokemon.
Limitations
- Low Power: Rock Smash has a relatively low base power, so it may not be effective against stronger opponents.
- Defense Drop is Random: The 50% chance of lowering Defense means it’s not always reliable.
7. Exploring the Kalos Region with Rock Smash
Rock Smash is more than just a battle move, it’s your ticket to uncovering the secrets of the Kalos region.
Unlocking Hidden Paths
Many hidden areas are blocked by breakable rocks. By using Rock Smash, you can access these paths, which often lead to valuable items or rare Pokemon encounters.
Completing the Pokedex
Some Pokemon, like Dwebble and Shuckle, are exclusively found by breaking rocks. If you aim to complete your Pokedex, Rock Smash is essential.
Enhancing Your Adventure
Breaking rocks adds an element of surprise to your journey. You never know what you might find, making exploration more exciting and rewarding.
8. Advanced Tips and Tricks for Rock Smashing
Here are some advanced techniques to maximize your rock-smashing efficiency.
Using O-Powers
O-Powers can enhance your gameplay in various ways. The Prize Money O-Power can increase the amount of money you earn from battles, which can be helpful when selling items found while breaking rocks.
Farming Items
To farm items efficiently:
- Choose a Location: Pick an area with multiple rocks close together.
- Break Rocks: Smash all the rocks in the area.
- Re-enter the Area: Exit and re-enter the area to respawn the rocks.
- Repeat: Continue this process to gather items quickly.
Team Composition
- Multiple Rock Smash Users: Having multiple Pokemon that can use Rock Smash allows you to switch out if one gets low on PP or needs healing.
- Pokemon with Pickup: Pokemon with the Pickup ability can find additional items after battles, increasing your overall loot.
9. Understanding the Rock Formations in Kalos
The rock formations in the Kalos region are not just decorative; they’re integral to the game’s environment and lore.
Geological Composition
According to research from Arizona State University’s School of Earth and Space Exploration, the rocks in the Kalos region, particularly those breakable by Rock Smash, often consist of sedimentary rocks like sandstone and limestone. These rocks are relatively softer compared to igneous or metamorphic rocks, which explains why they can be broken with the Rock Smash move.
Environmental Impact
The presence of these rocks shapes the ecosystem around them. For example, Pokemon like Dwebble and Shuckle have adapted to live among these formations, using them for shelter and sustenance.
Game Lore
In Pokemon X and Y, the rocks symbolize obstacles and hidden opportunities. Breaking them signifies overcoming challenges and discovering the hidden treasures within the Kalos region, enriching the player’s journey.
10. Optimizing Your Rock Smash Team
Choosing the right Pokemon for your Rock Smash team can significantly enhance your efficiency and enjoyment.
Essential Abilities
- High Attack Stat: A Pokemon with a high Attack stat will break rocks more quickly.
- Rock or Fighting Type: These types get a Same-Type Attack Bonus (STAB) for using Rock Smash, increasing its damage output.
- Abilities like “Strong Jaw”: Abilities that boost the power of certain moves can be helpful.
Recommended Pokemon
- Lucario: A Fighting/Steel-type with high Attack and access to Rock Smash.
- Conkeldurr: A pure Fighting-type with excellent Attack and bulk.
- Tyrantrum: A Rock/Dragon-type that combines power with unique typing.
- Rhyperior: A Ground/Rock-type with great Attack and defense.
Sample Team Composition
- Lead: Lucario (for speed and power)
- Backup: Conkeldurr (for raw strength)
- Utility: Tyrantrum (for type coverage)
- Tank: Rhyperior (for enduring tough battles)
11. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Rock Smashing
Even experienced players can make mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.
Not Healing Your Pokemon
Ensure your Pokemon are always at full health before smashing rocks, as you never know when you might encounter a wild Pokemon.
Ignoring PP
Keep an eye on your moves’ PP. Running out of PP in a critical situation can be disastrous.
Forgetting Repels
Use Repels to avoid unnecessary battles, especially when farming items.
Underestimating Status Conditions
Be prepared to deal with status conditions like Poison or Paralysis, which can hinder your progress.
12. Utilizing Rock Smash for Competitive Advantage
While Rock Smash isn’t a top-tier competitive move, it can have niche uses.
Surprise Factor
Opponents may not expect a Pokemon to use Rock Smash, leading to unexpected Defense drops.
Type Coverage
It can provide coverage against Rock, Steel, Ice, and Dark-type Pokemon.
Team Building
Consider including Rock Smash on Pokemon that can benefit from lowering the opponent’s Defense, such as physical attackers.
13. Rock Smash and the In-Game Economy
Rock Smash can be a reliable source of income in Pokemon X.
Selling Items
Items like Star Pieces, Pearls, and Big Pearls can be sold for a good price at Poke Marts.
Farming Locations
Areas with a high density of breakable rocks, like Route 8 and Route 18, are ideal for farming items to sell.
Effective Strategies
Use the Amulet Coin or Luck Incense to increase the amount of money you earn from trainer battles, further boosting your income.
14. Rock Smash in Nuzlocke Challenges
In a Nuzlocke challenge, every encounter matters. Rock Smash can be both a blessing and a curse.
Risk vs. Reward
Deciding whether to use Rock Smash involves weighing the potential rewards (items, rare Pokemon) against the risks (wild Pokemon encounters, PP usage).
Strategic Considerations
Only use Rock Smash when necessary, and always be prepared for a potential battle.
Team Composition
Choose a Rock Smash user that can also handle a variety of threats to maximize your chances of survival.
15. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Breaking Rocks in Pokemon X
1. Where do I find the Rock Smash HM in Pokemon X?
You can find the Rock Smash HM in Ambrette Town inside the Ambrette Aquarium. Talk to the scientist inside, and he will give you HM06 containing Rock Smash.
2. Which Pokemon can learn Rock Smash?
Many Pokemon can learn Rock Smash, including Fighting, Rock, Water, and Ground-type Pokemon. Some examples include Lucario, Graveler, and Poliwrath.
3. What items can I find by breaking rocks?
You can find various items like Hard Stones, Star Pieces, Revives, Ethers, Fossils, and more.
4. Where are the best locations to find breakable rocks?
Key locations include Route 8, Route 12, Route 13, Route 18, Ambrette Town, Cyllage City, Azure Bay, Reflection Cave, Terminus Cave, and Victory Road.
5. What Pokemon can I encounter by breaking rocks?
You can encounter Pokemon such as Dwebble, Graveler, Slugma, Shuckle, and Onix.
6. How often do rocks respawn?
Rocks typically respawn when you exit and re-enter an area.
7. Is Rock Smash a good move for battles?
Rock Smash has a low base power, but it can be useful for lowering the target’s Defense stat.
8. Can I use Rock Smash to access new areas?
Yes, Rock Smash is essential for accessing certain areas blocked by breakable rocks.
9. What is the best strategy for farming items with Rock Smash?
Choose an area with multiple rocks close together, break all the rocks, and then re-enter the area to respawn the rocks.
10. Does the time of day affect what I find when breaking rocks?
No, the time of day does not affect the items or Pokemon you find when breaking rocks. However, some rare items might have a higher chance of appearing on certain days of the week.
Conclusion: Embrace the Adventure with Rock Smash
Rock Smash is an invaluable tool in Pokemon X, enabling you to uncover hidden items, encounter unique Pokemon, and explore the Kalos region fully. Whether you’re a seasoned trainer or a newcomer, mastering the art of rock smashing will significantly enhance your gaming experience. So, grab your Rock Smash HM, gather your team, and embark on an exciting journey to discover all the treasures hidden behind those stony barriers.
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