Exploration TMs and HMs

Learn how to use Cut, Flash, Rock Smash, Strength, Secret Power, Surf, Dive, and Waterfall to explore Hoenn and find secrets in Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire.

Hey there! So, you're diving into Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire and want to know about those special moves that help you get around? These are your Exploration TMs and HMs, and they're super important for finding hidden paths, items, and even making your own Secret Bases. Let's break down what each one does and why you'll want them!

HM01: Cut

Think of Cut as your Pokémon's personal gardening tool. If you see a thorny bush blocking your path to a secret area or a sweet item, your Pokémon can use Cut to clear it away. Honestly, its battle power isn't the best, and you won't find too many of these thorny blockers on your main journey, but it's still handy for those little detours.

TM70: Flash

Flash is your go-to for those super dark caves. While you *can* probably stumble your way through even in pitch blackness if you've got a good sense of direction, Flash makes it way easier. In battle, it lowers the opponent's Accuracy, which is okay, but its real utility is lighting up your path.

HM06: Rock Smash

This one's pretty straightforward – it smashes rocks! You'll find small, cracked rocks scattered around Hoenn that are just begging to be broken. Besides opening up new routes, smashing rocks can sometimes lead you to wild Pokémon, hidden items, or even ancient Pokémon fossils if you're exploring in Mirage Spots with the Eon Flute!

HM04: Strength

Strength is all about raw power. When you need to move giant cubic rocks that are blocking your way (and there's no wall in the way), your Pokémon can use Strength to push 'em. This leads to some fun puzzles where you'll need to figure out the best way to maneuver these boulders, often into pits. The cool thing is, once you push a rock, you can keep nudging it until you leave the area, so you don't have to keep using Strength over and over.

TM94: Secret Power

Secret Power is pretty neat because it lets you create your own personal hideout! You can use it on suspicious walls, trees, or bushes to create an entrance. While the space behind might just be empty, you can then customize it into your very own Secret Base – a perfect spot to relax and decorate.

HM03: Surf

Surf is a game-changer for exploration. It lets you travel across any body of water – rivers, lakes, and the big ol' Hoenn seas. While you're cruising along, you might even run into some wild water-type Pokémon. It's not just for travel; Surf is also a pretty solid move in battles, especially for your Water-type attackers.

HM07: Dive

Dive takes your water adventures a step further. This HM lets you plunge into deep water and then resurface later where light shines down from above. It's essential for reaching areas you otherwise couldn't, and while you're exploring the underwater world, keep an eye out for hidden items and Pokémon.

HM05: Waterfall

Rounding out the water trio, Waterfall lets you do what its name implies: climb up or go down massive waterfalls you encounter while using Surf. Just like Surf, Waterfall is a powerful move in its own right and a great addition to the moveset of any physical Water-type attacker.