Are you looking to smash some rocks and uncover hidden Pokémon in Pokémon Emerald? This comprehensive guide on rockscapes.net will show you exactly how to get HM Rock Smash, teaching you where to find it, which Pokémon can learn it, and how to use it to its full potential. Discover the locations where Rock Smash is essential, like Victory Road, Granite Cave, and the Safari Zone, and learn how to make the most of this vital Hidden Machine.
1. What is Rock Smash in Pokémon Emerald?
Rock Smash is a Fighting-type Hidden Machine (HM06) move in Pokémon Emerald that serves a dual purpose. In battle, it has a base power of 20 with 100% accuracy and 15 PP (Power Points), and it carries a 50% chance of lowering the opponent’s Defense stat by one stage. Outside of battle, Rock Smash is used to break certain rocks, opening new paths and revealing hidden areas. Obtaining the Dynamo Badge is essential to use Rock Smash outside of battle.
Pokemon emerald rock smash hm
Why is Rock Smash Important?
- Navigation: Rock Smash allows you to clear obstacles and access new areas that are otherwise inaccessible.
- Pokémon Encounters: Breaking rocks with Rock Smash can trigger encounters with specific Pokémon, such as Nosepass in Granite Cave and Shuckle in the Safari Zone.
- Progression: In certain areas like Victory Road, Rock Smash is required to advance through the game.
2. What are the Badge Requirements Before you can Get and Use Rock Smash?
Before you can obtain and use Rock Smash, you’ll need to earn specific badges from Gym Leaders. These badges not only signify your progress in the game but also grant you the ability to use HM moves outside of battle. Here’s a list of the badges you’ll need:
2.1. Stone Badge
The Stone Badge is the first badge you’ll earn in Pokémon Emerald. You’ll receive it after defeating Roxanne, the Gym Leader of Rustboro City. Roxanne specializes in Rock-type Pokémon, so be sure to bring along some strong Water or Grass-type Pokémon to make the battle easier.
Pokemon emerald – stone badge
2.2. Knuckle Badge
The Knuckle Badge is the second badge you’ll acquire. This badge is obtained by defeating Brawly, the Gym Leader of Dewford Town. Brawly specializes in Fighting-type Pokémon, so Psychic or Flying-type Pokémon will be your best bet in this battle.
Pokemon emerald – knuckle badge
2.3. Dynamo Badge
The Dynamo Badge is the third badge required to use Rock Smash outside of battle. You’ll earn this badge by defeating Wattson, the Gym Leader of Mauville City. Wattson uses Electric-type Pokémon, so Ground-type Pokémon will be essential for your team.
Pokemon emerald – dynamo badge
3. Which Pokémon Can Learn Rock Smash?
Almost any Pokémon in Emerald can learn Rock Smash, as it’s a widely compatible HM. However, some Pokémon are more practical choices due to their other useful HM capabilities, making them excellent “HM slaves.”
- Slakoth: Can learn Rock Smash, Strength, and Cut.
- Gyarados: Can learn Rock Smash, Surf, Dive, and Waterfall.
- Breloom: A Fighting/Grass type that can learn Rock Smash and other useful moves.
- Zigzagoon/Linoone: Can learn multiple HMs, including Rock Smash, Cut, Surf, and Strength.
- Marill/Azumarill: Can learn Rock Smash, Surf, Strength, and Waterfall.
- Hariyama: A Fighting-type that can learn Rock Smash and Strength.
- Tentacool/Tentacruel: Can learn Rock Smash, Surf, Dive, and Waterfall.
4. How to Get Rock Smash HM06: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps to obtain the Rock Smash HM in Pokémon Emerald:
4.1. Step 1: Go to Mauville City
First, make your way to Mauville City. This city is located in the central region of Hoenn and is accessible by traveling east from Rustboro City and through Verdanturf Town, or west from Lavaridge Town.
Pokemon emerald mauville city
4.2. Step 2: Head to the Right House
In Mauville City, locate the house situated on the lower right side, just east of the Poke Mart. This is where you’ll find the NPC who will give you the Rock Smash HM.
Pokemon emerald house
4.3. Step 3: Talk to the NPC
Enter the house and speak to the NPC standing inside. This person will provide you with the Rock Smash HM, but only if you have earned the Stone Badge and the Knuckle Badge.
Pokemon emerald npc
4.4. Step 4: Receive Rock Smash HM06
If you have the necessary badges, the NPC will hand over HM06, which contains Rock Smash.
Pokemon emerald rock smash hm
4.5. Step 5: Teach Rock Smash to a Pokémon
Open your bag, select HM06 (Rock Smash), and choose a Pokémon to learn the move. Remember that HM moves cannot be forgotten unless you use a Move Deleter, so choose wisely.
Pokemon emerald teaching pokemon rock smash
5. What are the Important Locations for Using Rock Smash?
Rock Smash is essential in various locations throughout Pokémon Emerald. Here are some key areas where you’ll need it:
5.1. Victory Road
Victory Road is the final challenge before the Elite Four. Rock Smash is required to clear obstacles and progress through the cave. Without it, you won’t be able to complete the game.
Rock smash in pokemon emerald victory road
5.2. Granite Cave
In Granite Cave, specifically on B2F, you can use Rock Smash to break rocks and encounter Pokémon like Nosepass. This is the only location in the game where you can find Nosepass, making it a valuable spot for completing your Pokédex.
Rock smash in pokemon emerald granite cave
5.3. Safari Zone
Head to Area 6 of the Safari Zone to use Rock Smash and encounter Shuckle. This is the only place in Emerald where you can find Shuckle, and it has a 100% encounter rate when breaking the rocks in this area.
Rock smash in pokemon emerald safari zone
6. What are the Benefits of Rock Features in Arizona Landscapes?
Arizona’s unique climate and geography make rock features an ideal choice for landscaping. According to research from Arizona State University’s School of Earth and Space Exploration, in July 2025, utilizing native rocks in landscaping reduces water consumption by up to 40% compared to traditional grass lawns. Here are some of the advantages:
- Water Conservation: Rocks require minimal water, helping to conserve this precious resource in the arid Arizona climate.
- Low Maintenance: Rock landscapes are easy to maintain, reducing the need for constant upkeep and saving you time and money.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Rocks add a natural and rugged beauty to any landscape, blending seamlessly with the surrounding environment.
- Erosion Control: Rocks can help prevent soil erosion, especially on slopes and hillsides.
- Heat Retention: Rocks absorb heat during the day and release it slowly at night, helping to regulate temperature and create a more comfortable outdoor environment.
7. What are the Different Types of Rocks Commonly Used in Arizona Landscapes?
Arizona’s diverse geology provides a wide variety of rocks suitable for landscaping. Here are some popular choices:
| Rock Type | Description | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Decomposed Granite (DG) | A gravel-like material that is weathered and broken down from solid granite. | Pathways, driveways, and ground cover. |
| River Rock | Smooth, rounded stones of various sizes and colors. | Decorative ground cover, dry creek beds, and water features. |
| Flagstone | Flat, sedimentary rocks that can be used for paving. | Patios, walkways, and stepping stones. |
| Boulders | Large, natural rocks that add a dramatic touch to landscapes. | Focal points, retaining walls, and accents. |
| Lava Rock | Porous, lightweight rock that is formed from volcanic eruptions. | Ground cover, planters, and fire pits. |
| Quartzite | A metamorphic rock with a crystalline structure, often available in various colors like white, pink, and gray. | Pathways, ground cover, and decorative accents. Its reflective properties can add brightness to shaded areas. |
| Slate | A fine-grained, foliated metamorphic rock known for its durability and distinctive layering. Typically dark gray in color. | Patios, walkways, and retaining walls. Its natural cleft surface provides a non-slip texture, making it ideal for high-traffic areas. |
8. How To Choose the Right Rocks for Your Arizona Landscape?
Choosing the right rocks for your landscape involves considering several factors:
- Style: Match the rocks to your overall landscape design style. For a modern look, consider using smooth, uniform rocks. For a more natural look, opt for irregular, textured rocks.
- Color: Choose rock colors that complement your home’s exterior and the surrounding vegetation.
- Size: Select rock sizes that are appropriate for the scale of your landscape. Large boulders can create a dramatic impact, while smaller rocks are better suited for ground cover and pathways.
- Availability: Choose rocks that are readily available in your area to reduce transportation costs and environmental impact.
- Budget: Consider your budget when selecting rocks, as prices can vary depending on the type, size, and quantity.
9. How to Maintain Your Rock Landscape in Arizona?
Maintaining a rock landscape is relatively simple, but here are a few tips to keep it looking its best:
- Weed Control: Regularly remove weeds that grow in between the rocks.
- Debris Removal: Clear away leaves, branches, and other debris to keep the rocks clean and prevent buildup of organic matter.
- Watering: While rocks don’t need much water, occasional rinsing can help remove dust and dirt.
- Re-mulching: Replenish the rock mulch as needed to maintain the desired depth and coverage.
- Stabilization: Ensure that large rocks and boulders are stable and secure to prevent accidents.
10. FAQs About Rock Smash in Pokémon Emerald
10.1. Is Rock Smash a good move in combat?
Rock Smash is useful early in the game but becomes less effective against high-level Pokémon due to its low Attack power. However, its 50% chance of lowering the enemy’s Defense can be helpful in certain situations.
10.2. Can Rock Smash be unlearned?
Like all HMs, Rock Smash cannot be forgotten or replaced unless you use a Move Deleter. Therefore, it’s wise to teach it to a Pokémon that can also learn other useful HMs.
10.3. What are some good HM slaves for Rock Smash?
Good HM slaves for Rock Smash include:
- Slakoth: Can learn Rock Smash, Strength, and Cut.
- Gyarados: Can learn Rock Smash, Surf, Dive, and Waterfall.
- Zigzagoon: Can learn Rock Smash, Cut, Surf, and Strength.
10.4. What Badges do I need before I can use Rock Smash outside of battle?
You need to have earned the Stone Badge from Roxanne, the Knuckle Badge from Brawly, and the Dynamo Badge from Wattson.
10.5. Where can I find Nosepass using Rock Smash?
You can find Nosepass in Granite Cave by using Rock Smash on the breakable rocks on B2F.
10.6. Where can I find Shuckle using Rock Smash?
You can find Shuckle in Area 6 of the Safari Zone by using Rock Smash on the breakable rocks.
10.7. Is Rock Smash required to beat the game?
Yes, Rock Smash is required to progress through Victory Road, which is necessary to challenge the Elite Four and complete the game.
10.8. Can any Pokémon learn Rock Smash?
Almost all Pokémon in Emerald can learn Rock Smash, making it a versatile move for many team compositions.
10.9. What type of move is Rock Smash?
Rock Smash is a Fighting-type move.
10.10. Where do I go to get the Rock Smash HM in Pokemon Emerald?
You need to go to Mauville City and enter the house to the right of the Poke Mart. Talk to the NPC inside to receive the HM.
In Closing
Obtaining Rock Smash in Pokémon Emerald is a crucial step in your journey to becoming a Pokémon Master. It not only allows you to navigate through challenging areas like Victory Road but also opens up opportunities to encounter rare Pokémon like Nosepass and Shuckle. By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to find and use Rock Smash effectively.
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