Game move errors

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Reason: missing some game images

In the games, there will occasionally be a Pokémon that knows a move it cannot know, commonly referred to as an illegal move, when owned by the player. It is unknown whether most of these are actual oversights on the part of the developers.

Pokémon with unobtainable movesets in the core series games

Unobtainable for the generation

Unobtainable moves

Pokémon Move Game Notes Picture
149Dragonite.png
Lance's Dragonite
Barrier Pokémon Red, Green, and Blue
Pokémon Red and Blue
Dragonite cannot know Barrier until Generation VI, in which a Dragonite based on Lance's that knows Barrier was distributed.
Lance Dragonite Barrier RGB.png
142Aerodactyl.png
Lance's Aerodactyl
Rock Slide Pokémon Gold, Silver, and Crystal Aerodactyl could not learn Rock Slide until Generation III.
Lance Aerodactyl Rock Slide GSC.png
089Muk.png
Cool Couple Carl & Nia's Muk
(Trainer Tower)
Shadow Ball Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen (Japanese) In the Japanese version of Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen only, the layout of Trainer Tower can be customized by scanning e-Reader cards. The Pokemon used by each trainer are partly determined by the order in which the e-Cards are scanned. If Cool Couple Carl & Nia appear on the first or seventh floor of Trainer Tower, they will use a Muk which knows Shadow Ball, a move it cannot learn until Generation IV. It was likely intended to be Shadow Punch, a move Muk can learn.
Cool Couple Muk Shadow Ball FRLG.png
171Lanturn.png
Cooltrainer Dianne's Lanturn
(Victory Road)
Earthquake Pokémon Emerald
Cooltrainer Lanturn Earthquake E.png
303Mawile.png
Gentleman ピエール's Mawile
(Trainer Hill 4F)
Comet Punch Pokémon Emerald (Japanese) In the Japanese version of Pokémon Emerald only, the layout of Trainer Hill can be customized by scanning e-Reader cards.

This Trainer and their Mawile will appear if and only if exactly seven such cards have been scanned, regardless of which cards they are, so that an eighth default Trainer needs to be added to fill out the roster with two Trainers per floor.

158Totodile.png
Battle Hall Totodile
Brine Pokémon Platinum, Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver Battle Hall Totodile Brine PtHGSS.png
315Roselia.png
Battle Hall Roselia
Sludge Pokémon Platinum, Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver It was likely intended to be Sludge Bomb, a move which Roselia can know. Battle Hall Roselia Sludge PtHGSS.png
347Anorith.png
Battle Hall Anorith
Stone Edge Pokémon Platinum, Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver Anorith's evolution, Armaldo, can learn Stone Edge. Battle Hall Anorith Stone Edge PtHGSS.png
007Squirtle.png
Ace Trainer Nick's Squirtle (Union Cave B2F)
Curse Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver Squirtle can only learn Curse in Generation II; however, Pokémon from Generation II games cannot be transferred to Generation IV. This error is likely due to Nick's Squirtle retaining its moveset from Pokémon Gold and Silver, in which it could learn Curse.
413Wormadam-Sandy.png
School Kid Ann's Sandy Cloak Wormadam
(Route 12)
Leaf Storm Pokémon Black and White Only Plant Cloak Wormadam can learn Leaf Storm. Due to learning the move at the same level, this Wormadam should instead know Fissure. School Kid Ann Sandy Wormadam Leaf Storm BW.png
146Moltres.png
En's Moltres (PWT)
Leer Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 Moltres could only learn Leer in Generation I, and starting in Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!, neither of which can be transferred to Generation V. Rotation Battle Tournament En Moltres Leer B2W2.png
376Metagross.png
Abel's Metagross
Ice Beam Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 From November 18 to 20, 2012, Metagross knew Ice Beam. After that, it was replaced with the correct move, Ice Punch.

This has been officially confirmed as an error, due to being based on a real-world Trainer.

2012 Masters Division Challenge Abel Metagross Ice Beam B2W2.png
594Alomomola.png
Totem Wishiwashi's Ally Alomomola
(Brooklet Hill)
Water Gun Pokémon Sun and Moon The Totem Wishiwashi can summon an ally Alomomola which knows Water Gun.
213Shuckle.png
Battle Royal Shuckle
Stockpile Pokémon Sun and Moon (v1.0) Starting in v1.1, this Shuckle instead knows Double Team.
784Kommo-o.png
Battle Tree Kommo-o
Shell Smash Pokémon Sun and Moon (v1.0) Starting in v1.1, this Kommo-o instead knows Draco Meteor.
479Rotom-Fan.png
Battle Tree Rotom
Blizzard Pokémon Sun and Moon In USUM, this Rotom's form is corrected to Frost.
479Rotom-Frost.png
Battle Tree Rotom
Air Slash Pokémon Sun and Moon In USUM, this Rotom's form is corrected to Fan.
095Onix.png
Hiker Jim's Onix
(Underground Path (Kanto Routes 7–8))
Wrap Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee! It was likely intended to be Bind, a move which Onix can know.
529Drilbur.png530Excadrill.png
1★ Wild Area News
DrilburExcadrill
Hydro Pump
(Max Geyser when Dynamaxed)
Pokémon Shield
(Available directly)

Pokémon Sword
(Available if raid was hosted from a player with Shield)

For a portion of the first day of this round of the Wild Area News for April 28 to May 11, 2020, 1★ Drilbur raids originating from Shield came with the illegal move Hydro Pump. The same raids for the rest of the event's duration, or from Sword, came with the correct move, Scratch. Players who caught a Drilbur with Hydro Pump cannot trade or battle online with it unless that move is forgotten; after doing so, it cannot be relearned.

These erroneous Drilbur otherwise function like other Drilbur, and can evolve into Excadrill with Hydro Pump. Additionally, while Dynamaxed, these Drilbur and Excadrill also have access to Max Geyser, which is typically unobtainable as neither can legitimately learn any Water-type attacks.

Drilbur Hydro Pump Sh.png
Drilbur Hydro Pump Summary.png
027Sandshrew-Alola.png028Sandslash-Alola.png
Pokémon GO Alolan Sandshrew → Alolan Sandslash
Poison Sting and/or Sand Attack Pokémon HOME
(After transferring from Pokémon GO)

Pokémon Sword and Shield
(Can be imported to Pokémon Sword and Shield)

Alolan Sandshrew and Sandslash transferred from Pokémon GO to Pokémon HOME from November 11 to November 16, 2020, erroneously use the level-up learnset of their Kantonian counterparts from Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!. Alolan Sandshrew and Sandslash in Pokémon HOME, Sword, or Shield with illegal moves had their moves replaced with moves from their level-up movepool on November 16, 2020, opening Pokémon HOME at any point between that date, and the release of HOME v3.0.0 would cause HOME to search all Sword and Shield savefiles on the console and correct the illegal movesets.

Players who transferred an Alolan Sandshrew and Sandslash with any of these illegal moves cannot trade or battle online with it unless that move is deleted. These erroneous Alolan Sandshrew and Sandslash otherwise function like other Alolan Sandshrew and Sandslash.

037Vulpix-Alola.png038Ninetales-Alola.png
Pokémon GO Alolan Vulpix → Alolan Ninetales
Ember, Will-O-Wisp, Fire Spin, Flamethrower, and/or Fire Blast
(Max Flare when Dynamaxed)
Pokémon HOME
(After transferring from Pokémon GO)

Pokémon Sword and Shield
(Can be imported to Pokémon Sword and Shield)

Alolan Vulpix and Ninetales transferred from Pokémon GO to Pokémon HOME from November 11 to November 16, 2020, erroneously use the level-up learnset of their Kantonian counterparts from Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!. Alolan Vulpix and Ninetales in Pokémon HOME, Sword, or Shield with illegal moves had their moves replaced with moves from their level-up movepool on November 16, 2020, opening Pokémon HOME at any point between that date, and the release of HOME v3.0.0 would cause HOME to search all Sword and Shield savefiles on the console and correct the illegal movesets.

Players who transferred an Alolan Vulpix or Ninetales with any of these illegal moves cannot trade or battle online with it unless that move is deleted. These erroneous Alolan Vulpix and Ninetales otherwise function like other Alolan Vulpix and Ninetales, with Alolan Vulpix from GO being able to evolve into an Alolan Ninetales with level-up moves that are otherwise only in Kantonian Vulpix's movepool, such as Flamethrower and Fire Blast. Additionally, while Dynamaxed, these Alolan Vulpix and Alolan Ninetales also have access to Max Flare, which is typically unobtainable as neither can legitimately learn any Fire-type attacks. However, both Alolan Vulpix and Alolan Ninetales can use Max Flare by using Weather Ball powered up into a Max Move if it is sunny, though this is considered an extension of Max Strike.

052Meowth-Galar.png863Perrserker.png
Pokémon GO Galarian MeowthPerrserker
Feint Pokémon HOME
(After transferring from Pokémon GO)

Pokémon Sword and Shield
(Can be imported to Pokémon Sword and Shield)

Galarian Meowth transferred from Pokémon GO to Pokémon HOME from November 11 to November 16, 2020, erroneously use the level-up learnset of their Kantonian counterpart from Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!. Galarian Meowth or Perrserker in Pokémon HOME, Sword, or Shield with illegal moves had their moves replaced with moves from their level-up movepool on November 16, 2020, opening Pokémon HOME at any point between that date, and the release of HOME v3.0.0 would cause HOME to search all Sword and Shield savefiles on the console and correct the illegal movesets.

Players who transferred an Galarian Meowth with any of these illegal moves cannot trade or battle online with it unless that move is deleted. These erroneous Galarian Meowth otherwise function like other Galarian Meowth, with Galarian Meowth from GO being able to evolve into a Perrserker with Feint.

074Geodude-Alola.png075Graveler-Alola.png076Golem-Alola.png
Pokémon GO Alolan Geodude → Alolan Graveler → Alolan Golem
Sand Attack Pokémon HOME
(After transferring from Pokémon GO)
Alolan Geodude, Graveler and Golem transferred from Pokémon GO to Pokémon HOME from November 11 to November 16, 2020, erroneously use the level-up learnset of their Kantonian counterparts from Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!.

Due to being unable to be transferred out of Pokémon HOME, all Alolan Geodude, Graveler or Golem deposited in Pokémon HOME that had any illegal moves had their moves replaced with moves they can learn in their level-up movepool on November 16, 2020.

077Ponyta-Galar.png078Rapidash-Galar.png
Pokémon GO Galarian Ponyta → Galarian Rapidash
Ember, Quick Attack, Fire Spin, Fire Blast, and/or Flare Blitz Pokémon HOME
(After transferring from Pokémon GO)

Pokémon Sword and Shield
(Can be imported to Pokémon Sword and Shield)

Galarian Ponyta and Rapidash transferred from Pokémon GO to Pokémon HOME from November 11 to November 16, 2020, erroneously use the level-up learnset of their Kantonian counterparts from Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!. Galarian Ponyta and Rapidash in Pokémon HOME, Sword, or Shield with illegal moves had their moves replaced with moves from their level-up movepool on November 16, 2020, opening Pokémon HOME at any point between that date, and the release of HOME v3.0.0 would cause HOME to search all Sword and Shield savefiles on the console and correct the illegal movesets.

Players who transferred a Galarian Ponyta and Rapidash with any of these illegal moves cannot trade or battle online with it unless that move is deleted. These erroneous Galarian Ponyta and Rapidash otherwise function like other Galarian Ponyta and Rapidash. Galarian Rapidash can only learn Flare Blitz after having been powered up fully and reaching the Best Buddy Buddy Level in Pokémon GO as a Galarian Ponyta prior to being transferred to Pokémon HOME, then evolving into Galarian Rapidash in Pokémon Sword and Shield.

083Farfetch'd-Galar.png865Sirfetch'd.png
Pokémon GO Galarian Farfetch'dSirfetch'd
Mirror Move*, Razor Leaf, Cut, Fury Attack, Agility, Slash, and/or Air Slash Pokémon HOME
(After transferring from Pokémon GO)

Pokémon Sword and Shield
(Can be imported to Pokémon Sword and Shield)

Galarian Farfetch'd transferred from Pokémon GO to Pokémon HOME from November 11 to November 16, 2020, erroneously use the level-up learnset of their Kantonian counterpart from Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!. Galarian Farfetch'd or Sirfetch'd in Pokémon HOME, Sword, or Shield with illegal moves had their moves replaced with moves from their level-up movepool on November 16, 2020, opening Pokémon HOME at any point between that date, and the release of HOME v3.0.0 would cause HOME to search all Sword and Shield savefiles on the console and correct the illegal movesets.

Players who transferred a Galarian Farfetch'd with any of these illegal moves cannot trade or battle online with it unless that move is deleted. These erroneous Galarian Farfetch'd otherwise function like other Galarian Farfetch'd, with Galarian Farfetch'd from GO being able to evolve into a Sirfetch'd with an illegal moveset.

088Grimer-Alola.png089Muk-Alola.png
Pokémon GO Alolan Grimer → Alolan Muk
Sludge Pokémon HOME
(After transferring from Pokémon GO)
Alolan Grimer and Muk transferred from Pokémon GO to Pokémon HOME from November 11 to November 16, 2020, erroneously use the level-up learnset of their Kantonian counterparts from Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!.

Due to being unable to be transferred out of Pokémon HOME, all Alolan Grimer or Muk deposited in Pokémon HOME that had any illegal moves had their moves replaced with moves they can learn in their level-up movepool on November 16, 2020.

354Banette.png
Psychic Corbin's Banette
(Route 228)
Shadow Force Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl It was likely intended to be Phantom Force, a move which Banette can know. Psychic Corbin Banette Shadow Force BDSP.png
122Mr. Mime.png
Dawn's Mr. Mime
Power Whip Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl Second battle with Dawn (only used if the player picked Chimchar as their first partner Pokémon). It was likely intended to be Power Swap, which Mr. Mime can know.
350Milotic.png
Lucas's Milotic
Calm Mind Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl First battle with Lucas (only used if the player picked Chimchar or Piplup as their first partner Pokémon).
136Flareon.png
Morimoto's Flareon
Superpower Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl Morimoto's Flareon knows Superpower, a move Flareon cannot know in these games due to movesets being replaced with standard level-up moves when transferred from Pokémon HOME.
424Ambipom.png
Morimoto's Ambipom
Ice Punch Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl Morimoto's Ambipom knows Ice Punch, a move Aipom cannot know in these games due to movesets being replaced with standard level-up moves when transferred from Pokémon HOME.
248Tyranitar.png
Roark's Tyranitar
Ice Punch, Fire Punch, and/or Low Kick Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl In the Battle Tower, during a Master Class challenge, Roark may use a Tyranitar with at least one of these moves, which Tyranitar cannot know in these games due to movesets being replaced with standard level-up moves when transferred from Pokémon HOME.
135Jolteon.png
Volkner's Jolteon
Reflect Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl In Volkner's rematch Gym battle, his Jolteon knows Reflect, a move Jolteon cannot know in these games due to movesets being replaced with standard level-up moves when transferred from Pokémon HOME.
324Torkoal.png
Roark's Torkoal
Earth Power Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl In the Battle Tower, during a Master Class challenge, Roark may use a Torkoal with Earth Power, a move Torkoal cannot know in these games due to movesets being replaced with standard level-up moves when transferred from Pokémon HOME.
003Venusaur.png
Gardenia's Venusaur
Earth Power Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl In the Battle Tower, during a Master Class challenge, Gardenia may use a Venusaur with Earth Power, a move Venusaur cannot know in these games due to movesets being replaced with standard level-up moves when transferred from Pokémon HOME.
407Roserade.png
Gardenia's Roserade
Swift Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl In the Battle Tower, during a Master Class challenge, Gardenia may use a Roserade with Swift, a move Roserade cannot know in these games due to movesets being replaced with standard level-up moves when transferred from Pokémon HOME.
448Lucario.png
Maylene's Lucario
Ice Punch Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl In the Battle Tower, during a Master Class challenge, Maylene may use a Lucario with Ice Punch, a move Lucario cannot know in these games due to movesets being replaced with standard level-up moves when transferred from Pokémon HOME.
212Scizor.png
Crasher Wake and Byron's Scizor
Superpower Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl In the Battle Tower, during a Master Class challenge, Crasher Wake and Byron may use a Scizor with Superpower, a move Scizor cannot know in these games due to movesets being replaced with standard level-up moves when transferred from Pokémon HOME.
230Kingdra.png
Crasher Wake's Kingdra
Hurricane Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl In the Battle Tower, during a Master Class challenge, Crasher Wake may use a Kingdra with Hurricane, a move Kingdra cannot know in these games due to movesets being replaced with standard level-up moves when transferred from Pokémon HOME.
292Shedinja.png
Fantina's Shedinja
Leech Life Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl In the Battle Tower, during a Master Class challenge, Fantina may use a Shedinja with Leech Life, a move Shedinja cannot know in these games due to movesets being replaced with standard level-up moves when transferred from Pokémon HOME.
094Gengar.png
Fantina's Gengar
Icy Wind Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl In the Battle Tower, during a Master Class challenge, Fantina may use a Gengar with Icy Wind, a move Gengar cannot know in these games due to movesets being replaced with standard level-up moves when transferred from Pokémon HOME.
146Moltres.png
Byron's Moltres
Mystical Fire Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl In the Battle Tower, during a Master Class challenge, Byron may use a Moltres with Mystical Fire, a move Moltres cannot know in these games due to movesets being replaced with standard level-up moves when transferred from Pokémon HOME.
437Bronzong.png
Byron's Bronzong
Zen Headbutt Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl In the Battle Tower, during a Master Class challenge, Byron may use a Bronzong with Zen Headbutt, a move Bronzong cannot know in these games due to movesets being replaced with standard level-up moves when transferred from Pokémon HOME.
376Metagross.png
Byron's Metagross
Ice Punch Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl In the Battle Tower, during a Master Class challenge, Byron may use a Metagross with Ice Punch, a move Metagross cannot know in these games due to movesets being replaced with standard level-up moves when transferred from Pokémon HOME.
0898Calyrex.png0898Calyrex-Ice Rider.png0898Calyrex-Shadow Rider.png
Calyrex, Ice Rider Calyrex, and Shadow Rider Calyrex
Pain Split, Roar, High Horsepower, Icicle Spear, Throat Chop, Lash Out, Curse Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Prior to Scarlet and Violet v3.0.1, when Ice Rider or Shadow Rider Calyrex are separated via the Reins of Unity, unlike other TM moves which are forgotten if they were form-exclusive, it will retain TM moves that were added to the game in The Teal Mask and The Indigo Disk. As a result, each Calyrex form can retain moves that would otherwise be exclusive to its other two forms.[1]

The following is a summary of which illegal moves each form can access via this error:

  • Standard Calyrex: Pain Split, Roar, High Horsepower, Icicle Spear, Throat Chop, Lash Out, Curse
  • Ice Rider Calyrex: Pain Split
  • Shadow Rider Calyrex: Roar, High Horsepower, Icicle Spear, Throat Chop

Despite this, Haze and Double-Edge will be forgotten as usual, due to them also being present in the learnset via level-up.

Unobtainable combinations of moves

Due to mothers being able to pass down Egg Moves from Generation VI onward, all Egg Move combinations are possible from Generation VI onward.

Artwork Name Moves Game Notes
021Spearow.png Battle Hall Spearow Quick Attack and Scary Face Pokémon Platinum, Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver The only Flying Egg Group Pokémon, other than Spearow or Fearow, that can learn Scary Face is Aerodactyl, which cannot learn Quick Attack.

Due to Archen and Archeops learning both Quick Attack and Scary Face by level-up in Generation V, this combination is possible from Generation V onward.

096Drowzee.png Battle Frontier Drowzee (except in the Battle Hall) Assist and Barrier Pokémon Platinum, Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver The only Human-Like Egg Group Pokémon, other than Drowzee or Hypno, that can learn Assist are Spinda and the Chimchar family, which cannot learn Barrier.
207Gligar.png Battle Frontier Gligar (except in the Battle Hall) Sand Tomb and Metal Claw Pokémon Platinum, Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver The only Bug Egg Group Pokémon, other than Gligar or Gliscor, that can learn Metal Claw are the Nincada family and the Paras family, which cannot learn Sand Tomb, and Scizor, which could not learn Sand Tomb until Generation VIII.
115Kangaskhan.png Battle Subway Kangaskhan Double-Edge and Circle Throw Pokémon Black and White, Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 The only Monster Egg Group Pokémon, other than Kangaskhan, that can learn Circle Throw are the Whismur family, which cannot know both Double-Edge and Circle Throw simultaneously; the Whismur family can only learn Circle Throw as an Egg Move from Generation V onward, whereas they can only learn Double-Edge from a Generation III Move Tutor.
576Gothitelle.png Battle Subway Gothitelle Mirror Coat and Miracle Eye Pokémon Black and White, Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 The only Human-Like Egg Group Pokémon, other than the Gothitelle family, that can learn Mirror Coat is Lopunny, which cannot learn Miracle Eye.
047Parasect.png Walter's Parasect Bullet Seed and Leech Seed Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 Parasect can only learn Leech Seed as an Egg Move from Generation V onward, whereas it can only learn Bullet Seed as a Generation III or IV TM.

Due to the TM for Bullet Seed returning in Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl and Parasect retaining Leech Seed as an Egg Move, this combination is legal from Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl onwards.

169Crobat.png Janine's Crobat (Type Expert and World Leaders Tournaments) Hypnosis and Brave Bird Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 The only Flying Egg Group Pokémon, other than the Crobat family, that can learn Hypnosis are the Hoothoot family, Sigilyph, and the Pidove family, which cannot learn Brave Bird.
306Aggron.png Byron's Aggron (Type Expert and World Leaders Tournaments) Head Smash and Dragon Rush Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 The only Monster Egg Group Pokémon, other than the Aggron family, that can learn Dragon Rush are the Charmander family, the Gible family and the Rhyhorn family, which cannot learn Head Smash.
357Tropius.png Winona's Tropius Leaf Blade and Curse Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 The only Grass and Monster Egg Group Pokémon, other than Tropius, that can learn Leaf Blade are Victreebel, Bellossom, Grovyle and Sceptile, and the Snivy family, which cannot learn Curse. The Turtwig evolutionary line could learn Curse, but could not learn Leaf Blade until Pokémon Legends: Arceus.
617Accelgor.png Burgh's Accelgor (Unova Leaders Tournament) Guard Split and Spikes Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 The only Bug Egg Group Pokémon, other than Shelmet or Accelgor, that can learn Guard Split is Shuckle, which cannot learn Spikes.

Unobtainable combinations of moves and Abilities

Pokémon Moves Game Notes
145Zapdos.png
Battle Royal Dome Zapdos
Air Cutter and Static Pokémon Sun and Moon, Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon All Zapdos in the Battle Royal Dome know Air Cutter and have a chance to have the Ability Static. Static is its Hidden Ability, and it can only learn Air Cutter from a Gen IV Move Tutor, before Hidden Abilities existed.

Due to the introduction of the Ability Patch in Generation VIII and the ability to transfer Zapdos that know Air Cutter to Gen VIII, this combination is legal from Gen VIII onwards.

Moves known at an early level

Breedable, gendered Pokémon can learn a level-up move by breeding if both parents know it.

Because the Move Reminder allows moves to be taught at any level in Generation VII, all Pokémon can know any of their Generation VII level-up moves at any level. Unless explicitly mentioned otherwise, all examples from Generation VI or earlier are legal at any level in Generation VII.

Artwork Name Move Level Game Notes Picture
221Piloswine.png Pryce's Piloswine Fury Attack 31 Pokémon Gold, Silver, and Crystal Piloswine does not learn Fury Attack until level 33, and Swinub cannot learn it.
Pryce Piloswine L31 Fury Attack GSC.png
275Shiftry.png Sidney's Shiftry Extrasensory 48 Pokémon Ruby, Sapphire, and Emerald Shiftry does not learn Extrasensory until level 49 as a Nuzleaf, and Seedot cannot learn it.

Due to Nuzleaf learning Extrasensory at level 36 in Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire, Shiftry can know Extrasensory at level 48 from Generation VI onward.

Sidney Shiftry L48 Extrasensory RSE.png
334Altaria.png Winona's Altaria (initial battle) Dragon Dance 33 Pokémon Ruby, Sapphire, and Emerald Altaria does not learn Dragon Dance until level 40, and Swablu cannot learn it.

Due to Altaria learning Dragon Dance at level 30 in Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire, Altaria can know Dragon Dance at level 33 from Generation VI onward.

Winona Altaria L33 Dragon Dance RSE.png
264Linoone.png Norman's Linoone Slash 29 Pokémon Emerald Linoone does not learn Slash until level 41, and Zigzagoon cannot learn it.
464Rhyperior.png Bertha's Rhyperior (before Stark Mountain) Rock Wrecker 55 Pokémon Platinum Rhyperior does not learn Rock Wrecker until level 61, and Rhyhorn cannot learn it.

Due to Rhyperior learning Rock Wrecker at level 1 in Pokémon X and Y, Rhyperior can know Rock Wrecker at level 55 from Generation VI onward.

615Cryogonal.png Wulfric's Cryogonal (first rematch in the Battle Chateau) Confuse Ray 40 Pokémon X and Y Cryogonal does not learn Confuse Ray until level 45 and is gender unknown.
880Dracozolt.png Gym Challenger Corvin's Dracozolt (Champion tournaments) Bolt Beak 58 Pokémon Sword and Shield Dracozolt does not learn Bolt Beak until level 63 and is incapable of breeding.
1006Iron Valiant.png AI Turo's Iron Valiant (first battle) Spirit Break 67 Pokémon Violet Iron Valiant does not learn Spirit Break until level 91 and is incapable of breeding.

Unobtainable at the game's release

Unobtainable moves

Artwork Name Move Game Notes Picture
450Hippowdon.png Veteran Brenden's Hippowdon Dig Pokémon Platinum In Victory Road after collecting the National Pokédex, Brenden's Hippowdon knows Dig, a move Hippowdon could not know until Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver.
130Gyarados.png Lysandre's Gyarados Iron Head and Outrage Pokémon X and Y In all three battles with Lysandre in Pokémon X and Y, his Gyarados knows Iron Head and Outrage, two moves Gyarados could not know in these games until the release of Poké Transporter.
154Meganium.png Battle Royal Dome Meganium Giga Drain Pokémon Sun and Moon All Meganium in the Battle Royal Dome know Giga Drain, a move Meganium could not know in these games until they became compatible with Pokémon Bank.
196Espeon.png Battle Royal Dome Espeon Telekinesis Pokémon Sun and Moon One Espeon in the Battle Royal Dome knows Telekinesis, a move Espeon could not know in these games until they became compatible with Pokémon Bank.
115Kangaskhan-Mega.png Battle Royal Dome Kangaskhan Low Kick Pokémon Sun and Moon One Kangaskhan in the Battle Royal Dome knows Low Kick, a move Kangaskhan could not know in these games until they became compatible with Pokémon Bank.
576Gothitelle.png Battle Royal Dome Gothitelle Signal Beam Pokémon Sun and Moon One Gothitelle in the Battle Royal Dome knows Signal Beam, a move Gothitelle could not know in these games until they became compatible with Pokémon Bank.
429Mismagius.png Battle Royal Dome Mismagius Icy Wind Pokémon Sun and Moon One Mismagius in the Battle Royal Dome knows Icy Wind, a move Mismagius could not know in these games until they became compatible with Pokémon Bank.
565Carracosta.png Battle Royal Dome Carracosta Superpower Pokémon Sun and Moon One Carracosta in the Battle Royal Dome knows Superpower, a move Carracosta could not know in these games until they became compatible with Pokémon Bank.
037Vulpix-Alola.png
038Ninetales-Alola.png
Pokémon GO Alolan Vulpix → Alolan Ninetales Quick Attack Pokémon HOME
(After transferring from Pokémon GO)

Pokémon Sword and Shield
(Can be imported to Pokémon Sword and Shield)

Alolan Vulpix and Ninetales transferred from Pokémon GO to Pokémon HOME from November 11 to November 16, 2020, erroneously use the level-up learnset of their Kantonian counterparts from Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!, allowing them to learn the normally unavailable move Quick Attack. Alolan Vulpix and Ninetales in Pokémon HOME, Sword, or Shield with illegal moves had their moves replaced with moves from their level-up movepool on November 16, 2020, opening Pokémon HOME at any point after that date will cause HOME to search all Sword and Shield savefiles on the console and correct the illegal movesets.

Players who transferred an Alolan Vulpix or Ninetales with Quick Attack cannot trade or battle online with it unless that move is deleted. These erroneous Alolan Vulpix and Ninetales otherwise function like other Alolan Vulpix and Ninetales, with Alolan Vulpix from GO being able to evolve into an Alolan Ninetales.

Alolan Vulpix and Ninetales were unable to learn Quick Attack until the release of Pokémon Legends: Arceus, where both learn the move starting at level 5, however they cannot exit Legends: Arceus and retain that move, as Pokémon HOME stores unique movesets for each compatible game. If deposited into Pokémon Sword and Shield, it would gain four moves from its level-up movepool in Sword and Shield, losing access to Quick Attack.

101Electrode.png Iono's Electrode Sucker Punch Pokémon Scarlet and Violet In her second battle, Iono's Electrode knows Sucker Punch. While it cannot learn this move in Scarlet and Violet, it can learn Sucker Punch via Move Tutor in Pokémon Platinum, HeartGold and SoulSilver.
612Haxorus.png Tera Raid Battle 5★ Haxorus Harden Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Haxorus encountered in 5★ Tera Raid Battles can use Harden for the duration of the battle, but it is not retained if captured. While it cannot learn this move in Scarlet and Violet, it can learn Harden as an Egg Move in previous generations. Haxorus Harden SV.png
0959Tinkaton.png Tera Raid Battle 5★ Tinkaton Charm Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Tinkaton encountered in 5★ Tera Raid Battles can use Charm for the duration of the battle, but it is not retained if captured.
0959Tinkaton.png Tera Raid Battle 5-6★ Tinkaton Misty Terrain Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Tinkaton encountered in 5 or 6★ Tera Raid Battles can use Misty Terrain for the duration of the battle, but it is not retained if captured.
205Forretress.png Tera Raid Battle 4★ Forretress Harden Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Forretress encountered in 4★ Tera Raid Battles can use Harden for the duration of the battle, but it is not retained if captured.
820Greedent.png Tera Raid Battle 5★ Greedent Hone Claws Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Greedent encountered in 5★ Tera Raid Battles can use Hone Claws for the duration of the battle, but it is not retained if captured.
820Greedent.png Tera Raid Battle 5★ Greedent Iron Defense Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Greedent encountered in 5★ Tera Raid Battles can use Iron Defense for the duration of the battle, but it is not retained if captured.
336Seviper.png Tera Raid Battle 3★ Seviper Leer Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Seviper encountered in 3★ Tera Raid Battles can use Leer for the duration of the battle, but it is not retained if captured.
429Mismagius.png Tera Raid Battle 5★ Mismagius Light Screen Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Mismagius encountered in 5★ Tera Raid Battles can use Light Screen for the duration of the battle, but it is not retained if captured.
0941Kilowattrel.png Tera Raid Battle 6★ Kilowattrel Rain Dance Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Kilowattrel encountered in 6★ Tera Raid Battles can use Rain Dance for the duration of the battle, but it is not retained if captured.
885Dreepy.png Tera Raid Battle 3★ Dreepy Reflect Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Dreepy encountered in 3★ Tera Raid Battles can use Reflect for the duration of the battle, but it is not retained if captured.
461Weavile.png Tera Raid Battle 5★ Weavile Reflect Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Weavile encountered in 5★ Tera Raid Battles can use Reflect for the duration of the battle, but it is not retained if captured. While it cannot learn this move in Scarlet and Violet, it can learn Reflect by TM in previous generations.
552Krokorok.png Tera Raid Battle 4★ Krokorok Screech Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Krokorok encountered in 4★ Tera Raid Battles can use Screech for the duration of the battle, but it is not retained if captured.
0128Tauros-Paldea Combat.png Tera Raid Battle 6★ Tauros Screech Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Combat Form Tauros encountered in 6★ Tera Raid Battles can use Screech for the duration of the battle, but it is not retained if captured.
0977Dondozo.png Tera Raid Battle 5★ Dondozo Stockpile Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Dondozo encountered in 5★ Tera Raid Battles can use Stockpile for the duration of the battle, but it is not retained if captured.
876Indeedee-Female.png 5★ Tera Raid Battle female Indeedee Trick Room Pokémon Scarlet and Violet In 5★ Tera Raid Battles, female Indeedee has an identical moveset to its male counterpart, which erroneously included the move Trick Room, a move it could not normally learn. When caught, female Indeedee with Trick Room were permitted to be traded online, and participate in the Battle Stadium.

Additionally, while Female Indeedee 5★ raids were initially impossible to host online to other players (displaying an error message when attempting to join them), as of early December 2022 they began permitting other players to host them freely with Trick Room still present in the moveset, despite it still being an error move at the time.

This is currently the only instance of an error move obtainable by the player where the error was corrected by the developers simply allowing it, and eventually integrating it as a feature. As of v2.0.1 of Scarlet and Violet, instead of correcting the erroneous move, Game Freak instead patched the game to add Trick Room to Female Indeedee's TM learnset, effectively rendering it no longer an "error move". However, if the move is forgotten, it can not be relearned without using a TM.

Female Indeedee Trick Room SV.png
Female Indeedee Trick Room Summary.png

Moves known at an early level

Artwork Name Move Game Notes Picture
095Onix.png Brock's Onix Bind Pokémon Yellow Brock's Onix knows Bind at level 12, although Onix does not learn this move until level 15. Because breeding did not exist in the Generation I games, it was not possible to know this move at an early level in Generation I.

In Generation II, Onix learns Bind at level 10. Due to trading being possible between the Generation I and II games via Time Capsule, an Onix from Generation II at level 12 (or lower) that knows Bind can be traded to Pokémon Yellow.

284Masquerain.png Viola's Masquerain Air Slash Pokémon X and Y In the first rematch in the Battle Chateau, Viola's Masquerain knows Air Slash at level 40. However, in Pokémon X and Y, Masquerain does not learn this move until level 47; Surskit cannot learn this move, so it cannot know it at a lower level due to breeding.

In Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire, Masquerain learns Air Slash at level 38, making it possible to trade a Masquerain that knows Air Slash at level 40 (or lower) to Pokémon X and Y.

882Dracovish.png Gym Challenger Terry's Dracovish Fishious Rend and Dragon Rush Pokémon Sword and Shield In the Champion tournaments, Terry's Dracovish knows Fishious Rend and Dragon Rush at level 57, although Dracovish does not learn these moves until level 63 and level 77, respectively. It cannot learn these moves at a lower level due to breeding because it is in the No Eggs Discovered Egg Group. However, an event Dracovish that knows Fishious Rend and Dragon Rush at Level 50 was later distributed.

Errors in promotional material

Artwork Name Move Game Notes Picture
282Gardevoir.png Gardevoir Fairy Wind Pokémon X and Y In the E3 trailer for Pokémon X and Y, Gardevoir used Fairy Wind. XY Prerelease Gardevoir Fairy Wind.png
131Lapras.png Lapras Scald Pokémon X and Y In the banner of Summer 2013 World Hobby Fair for Pokémon X and Y promotion, Lapras was seen using Scald. XY Prerelease Lapras Scald.png
257Blaziken-Mega.png Mega Blaziken Ice Punch Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire In pre-release screenshots for Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire posted on the official Pokémon website, Mega Blaziken used Ice Punch. As a result, the official Japanese Pokémon site posted an apology and the images were removed. ORAS Prerelease Mega Blaziken Ice Punch.png
025Pikachu.png Pikachu Return Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl In a trailer for Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl shown during a Pokémon Presents, a Pikachu can be seen that knows Return, a move which cannot be used in Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl. BDSP Trailer Return.png
197Umbreon.png Umbreon Will-O-Wisp Pokémon Scarlet and Violet In a video for top-tier Pokémon for Tera Raid Battles in all European languages, Umbreon is recommended for being able to learn Will-o-Wisp and can be seen using the move, despite not being able to learn the move in any way.

Unusable moves

Pokémon Move Game Notes Picture
301Delcatty.png
Ace Trainer Meagan's Delcatty
(Route 228)
Feint Attack Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl Starting in 1.1.3, this Delcatty instead knows Covet.
354Banette.png
Fantina's Banette
Snatch Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl Only in rematches. Starting in 1.1.3, this Banette instead knows Payback.
898Calyrex-Ice Rider.png
Ice Rider Calyrex
Aromatherapy Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Ice Rider Calyrex could learn Aromatherapy by level-up in Scarlet and Violet, despite the move being unusable.

In 1.2.0, this was replaced by Psychic Terrain to match its other forms.

Pokémon with unobtainable movesets in the side series games

Unobtainable for the generation

Unobtainable moves

Artwork Name Move Game Notes Picture
080Slowbro.png Juggler's Slowbro Metronome Pokémon Stadium Fuchsia Gym's Juggler's Slowbro knows Metronome in the Round 1 battle, a move it could not learn until Pokémon Scarlet and Violet.
316Gulpin.png
317Swalot.png
Chaser Emok's GulpinSwalot (Pyrite Town) Thief Pokémon Colosseum Gulpin and Swalot could not learn Thief until Pokémon Scarlet and Violet.
Emok Gulpin Thief Colo.png
Emok Swalot Thief Colo.png
109Koffing.png
281Kirlia.png
285Shroomish.png
Chaser Maiz's Koffing, Kirlia, and Shroomish (Pyrite Cave) Pound Pokémon Colosseum During the rematch.
Maiz Koffing Pound Colosseum.png
Maiz Kirlia Pound Colosseum.png
Maiz Shroomish Pound Colosseum.png
270Lotad.png Bandana Guy Noxy's Lotad (Pyrite Cave) Fake Out Pokémon Colosseum During the rematch. Lotad's evolution Lombre can learn Fake Out at level 19 in Generation III.
Noxy Lotad Fake Out Colo.png
271Lombre.png Hunter Zalo's Lombre (Pyrite Cave) Fury Attack Pokémon Colosseum It was likely intended to be Fury Swipes, a move Lombre can learn.
Hunter Lombre Fury Attack Colosseum.png
263Zigzagoon.png Hunter Meli's Zigzagoon (Pyrite Cave) Fury Swipes Pokémon Colosseum Zigzagoon's evolution, Linoone, can learn Fury Swipes.
025Pikachu.png Bodybuilder Rapoz's Pikachu (Mt. Battle Area 1 Battle Mode Singles, Battle Now) Tackle Pokémon Colosseum
198Murkrow.png Area Leader Crayal's Murkrow (Mt. Battle Area 5 Battle Mode Singles, Battle Now) Mirror Coat Pokémon Colosseum
089Muk.png Cooltrainer Cruik's Muk (Mt. Battle Area 10 Battle Mode Singles, Battle Now) Shadow Ball Pokémon Colosseum Muk could not know Shadow Ball until Generation IV. It was likely intended to be Shadow Punch, a move Muk can learn.
Cruik Muk Shadow Ball Colo.png
046Paras.png "Healing Status Problems" Battle Sim opponent's Paras Sleep Powder Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness Paras could not know Sleep Powder until Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!. It was likely intended to be Spore, a move Paras can learn. Battle Sims Paras Sleep Powder XD.png
357Tropius.png "Single Battle Combos" Battle Sim player's Tropius Rain Dance Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness Tropius could not know Rain Dance until Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. Battle Sims Tropius Rain Dance XD.png
096Drowzee.png Battle CD 02 Habtel's Drowzee Strength Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness Battle CD 02 Drowzee Strength XD.png
242Blissey.png Battle CD 05 player's Blissey Reflect Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness Blissey cannot learn Reflect in Generation III, but it was possible to teach Chansey Reflect in Generation I and evolve it in Generation II. Battle CD 05 Blissey Reflect XD.png
068Machamp.png Battle CD 07 player's Machamp Swords Dance Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness Battle CD 07 Machamp Swords Dance XD.png
347Anorith.png Battle CD 38 Burg's Anorith Waterfall Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness On Battle CD 39, which is Battle CD 38 with swapped Pokémon on either side, this Anorith instead knows Brick Break. Battle CD 38 Anorith Waterfall XD.png
274Nuzleaf.png Gonzap's Nuzleaf (Snagem Hideout) Aerial Ace Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness Nuzleaf's evolution, Shiftry, can learn Aerial Ace via TM40.
227Skarmory.png Gonzap's Skarmory (Snagem Hideout) Hyper Beam Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness Skarmory could not know Hyper Beam until Pokémon Scarlet and Violet.
101Electrode.png Supertrainer Libal's Electrode (Mt. Battle Area 10) Reflect Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness Electrode can only learn Reflect in Generation I and Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!.

Unobtainable combinations of moves

Due to mothers being able to pass down Egg Moves from Generation VI onward, all Egg Move combinations are possible from Generation VI onward.

Artwork Name Moves Game Notes
001Bulbasaur.png Picnicker Stacy's Bulbasaur (Little Cup R-2) Razor Wind and Skull Bash Pokémon Stadium 2 The only Grass Egg Group or Monster Egg Group Pokémon that can learn Razor Wind, other than the Bulbasaur family, is the Totodile family, which cannot learn Skull Bash. Both moves are TM moves in Generation I, however, Bulbasaur cannot learn either move by TM.

This combination did not become possible in later generations due to Bulbasaur not maintaining Razor Wind as an Egg Move.

008Wartortle.png Cooltrainer Vince's Wartortle (Blackthorn Gym R-2) Mirror Coat and Reflect Pokémon Stadium 2 Wartortle can only learn the Generation II move Mirror Coat as an Egg Move, whereas it can only learn Reflect as a Generation I TM.

Due to Pokémon of the same species being able to pass Egg Moves to each other in the Pokémon Nursery in Generation VIII and Wartortle that know Reflect being able to be transferred to the Generation VIII games from the Virtual Console releases of the Generation I games or Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!, this combination is possible from Generation VIII onward.

009Blastoise.png Psychic Mason's Blastoise (Poké Cup Ultra Ball R-2) Mirror Coat and Haze Pokémon Stadium 2 The only Water 1 Egg Group and Monster Egg Group Pokémon, other than the Blastoise family, that can learn Mirror Coat is Corsola, which cannot learn Haze.
022Fearow.png Youngster Wyatt's Fearow (Poké Cup Master Ball R-2) Tri Attack and Scary Face Pokémon Stadium 2 The only Flying Egg Group Pokémon, other than the Fearow family, that can learn Scary Face is Aerodactyl, which cannot learn Tri Attack.
026Raichu.png Lt. Surge's Raichu (Gym Leader Castle R-2) Surf and Reversal Pokémon Stadium 2 Raichu can only learn the Generation II move Reversal as an Egg Move, whereas it can only learn Surf as a Move Tutor move as a Pikachu in the Japanese Pokémon Stadium or international versions of Pokémon Stadium.

Due to Raichu and its evolutionary relatives being made compatible with Surf and Reversal when they became TRs in Pokémon Sword and Shield, this combination is possible in Generation VIII.

028Sandslash.png Chuck's Sandslash (Gym Leader Castle R-2) Metal Claw and Rock Slide Pokémon Stadium 2 Sandslash can only learn the Generation II move Metal Claw as an Egg Move in Pokémon Crystal, whereas it can only learn Rock Slide as a Generation I TM.

Due to the Move Tutor for Rock Slide in Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen and Sandslash maintaining Metal Claw as an Egg Move, this combination is possible from Generation III onward.

030Nidorina.png Twins Min and Lyn's Nidorina (Azalea Gym R-2) Charm and Body Slam Pokémon Stadium 2 Nidorina can only learn the Generation II move Charm as an Egg Move, whereas it can only learn Body Slam as a Generation I TM.

Due to the Move Tutor for Body Slam in Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen and Nidorina maintaining Charm as an Egg Move, this combination is possible from Generation III onward.

036Clefable.png Boarder Claude's Clefable (Poké Cup Poké Ball R-2) Charm, Mega Punch, and Mega Kick Pokémon Stadium 2 Clefable can only learn the Generation II move Charm as a Cleffa, whereas it can only learn Mega Punch and Mega Kick as Generation I TMs.

Due to the Move Tutors for Mega Punch and Mega Kick in Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen and Cleffa maintaining Charm as a level-up move, this combination is possible from Generation III onward.

073Tentacruel.png Pryce's Tentacruel (Gym Leader Castle R-2) Mirror Coat and Reflect Pokémon Stadium 2 Tentacruel can only learn the Generation II move Mirror Coat as an Egg Move, whereas it can only learn Reflect as a Generation I TM.

Due to Tentacruel learning Mirror Coat at level 1 and learning Reflect as a TM move in Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!, this combination is possible from Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee! onward.

102Exeggcute.png Youngster Bernie's Exeggcute (Little Cup R-2) Mega Drain and AncientPower Pokémon Stadium 2 The only Grass Egg Group Pokémon that can learn Ancient Power, other than the Exeggcute family, are the Chikorita family and the Bulbasaur family, but the Chikorita family cannot learn Mega Drain and the Bulbasaur family cannot know both moves simultaneously—they can only know the Generation II move Ancient Power as an event Pokémon, but can only learn Mega Drain from a Generation I TM. This combination did not become possible in Generation IV due to Exeggcute not maintaining Mega Drain as an Egg move.

Due to Exeggcute learning Mega Drain by leveling up in Generation VIII and maintaining Ancient Power as an Egg Move, this combination is possible from Generation VIII onward.

103Exeggutor.png Bruno's Exeggutor (Gym Leader Castle R-2) AncientPower and Explosion Pokémon Stadium 2 Exeggutor can only learn the Generation II move AncientPower as an Egg Move, whereas it can only learn Explosion as a Generation I TM.

Due to the Move Tutor for Explosion in Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen and Exeggutor maintaining AncientPower as an Egg Move, this combination is possible from Generation III onward.

212Scizor.png Sabrina's Scizor (Gym Leader Castle R-2) Reversal and Light Screen Pokémon Stadium 2 The only Bug Egg Group Pokémon, other than the Scizor family, that can learn Reversal are Heracross and Yanma, which cannot learn Light Screen.

Due to being made compatible with the TM for Light Screen in Generation V and Scizor maintaining Reversal as an Egg Move, this combination is possible from Generation V onward.

198Murkrow.png St. Performer Shuf's Murkrow (Under Colosseum in the Story Mode) Confuse Ray and Perish Song Pokémon Colosseum The only Flying Egg Group Pokémon, other than Murkrow, that can learn Perish Song are the Swablu family, which cannot learn Confuse Ray.
068Machamp.png Bodybuilder Okona's Machamp (Quick Battle) Encore and Rolling Kick Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness The only Human-Like Egg Group Pokémon, other than the Machamp family, that can learn Rolling Kick are Hitmonlee and Hitmontop, which cannot learn Encore.

Moves known at an early level

Breedable, gendered Pokémon can learn a level-up move by breeding if both parents know it.

Because the Move Reminder allows moves to be taught at any level in Generation VII, all Pokémon can know any of their Generation VII level-up moves at any level. Unless explicitly mentioned otherwise, all examples from Generation VI or earlier are legal at any level in Generation VII.

Artwork Name Move Level Game Notes Picture
130Gyarados.png Pika Cup Rental Gyarados Hydro Pump, Leer, and Bite 15 Pokémon Stadium Although Gyarados can learn these moves at level 1 in Red, Green, and Blue, it can only be obtained at level 15 in Pokémon Yellow or in Generation II, where it learns these moves at a later level. Because no Move Reminder exists in Pokémon Red, Green, or Blue, it cannot be taught these moves.
081Magnemite.png Little Cup Rental Magnemite Supersonic and Lock-On 5 Pokémon Stadium 2 Magnemite does not learn Supersonic until level 11 (29 in Generation I), and Lock-On until level 27. It is also gender unknown.

Due to Magnemite learning Supersonic at level 4 in Pokémon Black 2 and White 2, Magnemite can know Supersonic at level 5 from Generation V onward.

081Magnemite.png PokéFan Janet's Magnemite (Little Cup R-2) Lock-On 5 Pokémon Stadium 2 Magnemite does not learn Lock-On until level 27, and is gender unknown.
100Voltorb.png Little Cup Rental Voltorb, Youngster Bernie's Voltorb Mirror Coat 5 Pokémon Stadium 2 Voltorb does not learn Mirror Coat until level 41, and is gender unknown.
120Staryu.png Little Cup Rental Staryu Light Screen 5 Pokémon Stadium 2 Staryu does not learn Light Screen until level 43 (42 in Generation I), and is gender unknown.

Due to Staryu learning Light Screen via TM16 in Generation III, Staryu can know Light Screen at level 5 from Generation III onward.

137Porygon.png Little Cup Rental Porygon Sharpen 5 Pokémon Stadium 2 Porygon does not learn Sharpen until level 24 in Generation II, and is gender unknown. While it can learn this move at level 1 in Generation I, it cannot be taught to a low enough level Porygon because no Move Reminder exists in Generation I.

Due to Porygon learning Sharpen at level 1 in Generation IV, Porygon can know Sharpen at level 5 from Generation IV onward.

137Porygon.png Poké Fan Rex's Porygon (Little Cup R-2) Recover 5 Pokémon Stadium 2 Porygon does not learn Recover until level 20 in Generation II (28 in Generation I), and is gender unknown.
271Lombre.png Bandana Guy Noxy and Hunter Valen's Lombre (Pyrite Cave, rematches) Uproar 34 (Noxy's), 37 (Valen's) Pokémon Colosseum Lombre does not learn Uproar until level 43, and Lotad cannot learn it until Generation IV.

Due to Lotad and Lombre being able to learn Uproar via Move Tutor in Pokémon Platinum, HeartGold and SoulSilver, Lombre can know Uproar at level 34 from Generation IV onward.

Noxy Lombre Uproar L34 Colo.png
Valen Lombre Uproar L37 Colo.png
343Baltoy.png Cipher Peon Kass and Hunter Drovic's Baltoy (Relic Cave, Mt. Battle during the Cipher invasion) Cosmic Power 35 (Kass's), 36 (Drovic's) Pokémon Colosseum Baltoy does not learn Cosmic Power until level 37, and is gender unknown.

Due to Baltoy learning Cosmic Power at level 31 in Pokémon Black 2 and White 2, Baltoy can know Cosmic Power at level 35 from Generation V onward.

Kass Baltoy Cosmic Power L35 Colo.png
Drovis Baltoy Cosmic Power L36 Colo.png
264Linoone.png Hunter Meli's Linoone (Pyrite Cave) and Hunter Doken's Linoone (Pyrite Building, rematches) Slash 39 Pokémon Colosseum Linoone does not learn Slash until level 41, and Zigzagoon cannot learn it.

Due to Linoone learning Slash at level 32 in Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire, Linoone can know Slash at level 39 from Generation VI onward.

Meli Linoone Slash L39 Colo.png
259Marshtomp.png Dakim's Marshtomp (first battle) Muddy Water 36 Pokémon Colosseum Marshtomp does not learn Muddy Water until level 37, and Mudkip cannot learn it.
Dakim Marshtomp L36 Muddy Water Colo.png
284Masquerain.png Cipher Peon Dioge's Masquerain (Realgam Tower, first battle) Silver Wind 42 Pokémon Colosseum Masquerain does not learn Silver Wind until level 47, and Surskit cannot learn it.

Due to Masquerain learning Silver Wind at level 40 and via TM62 in Generation IV, Masquerain can know Silver Wind at level 42 from Generation IV onward.

Dioge Masquerain L42 Silver Wind Colo.png
284Masquerain.png Bodybuilder Lona's Masquerain (The Under, first battle) Stun Spore and Whirlwind 39 Pokémon Colosseum Masquerain does not learn Stun Spore until level 40, and Whirlwind until level 53. Surskit cannot learn these moves.

Due to Masquerain learning Stun Spore at level 33 in Generation IV and Whirlwind at level 1 in Generation VI, Masquerain can know these moves at level 39 from those respective generations onward.

284Masquerain.png Cipher Peon Nore's Masquerain (Snagem Hideout, rematch) Whirlwind 52 Pokémon Colosseum Masquerain does not learn Whirlwind until level 53, and Surskit cannot learn it.

Due to Masquerain learning Whirlwind at level 1 in Generation VI, Masquerain can know Whirlwind at level 39 from Generation VI onward.

Nore Masquerain L52 Whirlwind Colo.png
082Magneton.png Chaser Trus's Magneton Zap Cannon and Tri Attack 40 Pokémon Colosseum Magneton does not learn Tri Attack until level 44, and Zap Cannon until level 62. It is also gender unknown.

Due to Magneton learning Tri Attack at level 1 in Generation IV and Zap Cannon at level 1 in Generation VI, Magneton can know these moves at level 40 from those respective generations onward.

Trus Magneton L40 Zap Cannon Colo.png
Trus Magneton L40 Tri Attack Colo.png
375Metang.png Hunter Aline's Metang Iron Defense 39 Pokémon Colosseum Metang does not learn Iron Defense until level 44, and Beldum cannot learn it until Generation IV.

Due to Beldum and Metang being able to learn Iron Defense via Move Tutor in Pokémon Platinum, HeartGold and SoulSilver, Metang can know Iron Defense at level 39 from Generation IV onward.

Aline Metang L39 Iron Defense Colo.png
375Metang.png Hunter Zalo's Metang (rematch) Meteor Mash 39 Pokémon Colosseum Metang does not learn Meteor Mash until level 50, and Beldum cannot learn this move.
Zalos Metang L39 Meteor Mash Colo.png
040Wigglytuff.png Bodybuilder Givern's Wigglytuff Hyper Voice 43 Pokémon Colosseum Wigglytuff does not learn Hyper Voice until level 44 as a Jigglypuff, and Igglybuff cannot learn it until Generation V.

Due to Igglybuff, Jigglypuff and Wigglytuff being able to learn Hyper Voice via Move Tutor in Pokémon Black 2 and White 2, Wigglytuff can know Hyper Voice at level 43 from Generation V onward.

Givern Wigglytuff L43 Hyper Voice Colo.png
196Espeon.png Fun Old Man Berlo's Espeon (Mt. Battle Area 9, Battle Mode Singles) Morning Sun 50+ Pokémon Colosseum Espeon does not learn Morning Sun until level 52, and Eevee cannot learn it.

Due to Espeon learning Morning Sun at level 33 in Pokémon Black 2 and White 2, Espeon can know Morning Sun at level 50 from Generation V onward.

375Metang.png Cipher Peon Petro's Metang Iron Defense 39 Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness Metang does not learn Iron Defense until level 44, and Beldum cannot learn it until Generation IV.

Due to Beldum and Metang being able to learn Iron Defense via Move Tutor in Pokémon Platinum, HeartGold and SoulSilver, Metang can know Iron Defense at level 39 from Generation IV onward.

144Articuno.png Cooltrainer Noxon's Articuno Sheer Cold 64 Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness Articuno does not learn Sheer Cold until level 85, and is a Legendary Pokémon.

Due to Articuno learning Sheer Cold at level 1 in Generation VI, Articuno can know Sheer Cold at level 64 from Generation VI onward.

Unobtainable combinations of moves for the current level

Artwork Name Move Game Notes
066Machop.png Youngster Bernie's Machop Vital Throw and Counter Pokémon Stadium 2 Youngster Bernie, the first Trainer in the Little Cup Round 2, has a level 5 Machop that knows both Vital Throw and Counter. While Machop can know both of these moves simultaneously if it is taught Counter as a TM in Generation I and transferred forward to Generation II to learn Vital Throw at level 31, this combination is impossible at level 5 because the only way Machop would be able to know Vital Throw at level 5 is by breeding, and Generation II moves cannot be traded back to Generation I for it to then learn Counter by TM.

Due to Machop being able to learn Counter as an Egg Move in Generation III and from the Move Tutor for Counter in Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen, and Machop maintaining Vital Throw as a level-up move, this combination is possible at level 5 from Generation III onward.

Unobtainable at the game's release

Moves known at an early level

Artwork Name Move Game Notes Picture
062Poliwrath.png Pika Cup Rental Poliwrath DoubleSlap Pokémon Stadium The Pika Cup rental Poliwrath knows DoubleSlap at level 12, although Poliwrath does not learn this move until level 25 as Poliwag or level 26 as Poliwhirl. While Poliwrath learns DoubleSlap at Level 1 in Generation I, it cannot be taught to a low enough level Poliwrath since no Move Reminder exists in Generation I and Poliwag evolves at Level 25.

In Pokémon Stadium 2, Poliwrath can be taught DoubleSlap at a low enough level from the Move Reminder and be traded back to Generation I.

Discrepancies in spin-off games

In spin-off games, sometimes Pokémon will know moves they wouldn't be able to know in the core games.

Super Smash Bros. series

Artwork Name Move Game Notes Picture
118Goldeen.png Goldeen Splash Super Smash Bros. series In the Super Smash Bros. series, the Goldeen that may emerge from a Poké Ball uses Splash. Goldeen SSBB.png
172Pichu.png Pichu Skull Bash and Agility Super Smash Bros. Melee
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Pichu's side special is Skull Bash and its up special is Agility. Both moves are cloned from Pikachu, which can learn both moves in Generation I. Pichu Skull Bash Melee.png
201Unown.png Unown Take Down Super Smash Bros. Melee In Super Smash Bros. Melee, the Unown that may emerge from a Poké Ball use Take Down.
251Celebi.png Celebi Fly Super Smash Bros. Melee,
Super Smash Bros. Brawl
In the Super Smash Bros. series, the Celebi that may emerge from a Poké Ball uses Fly. Celebi SSBB.png
384Rayquaza.png Rayquaza Dig Super Smash Bros. Brawl In Super Smash Bros. Brawl, one of Rayquaza's attacks is Dig. Rayquaza Dig SSBB.png
385Jirachi.png Jirachi Fly Super Smash Bros. Brawl In the Super Smash Bros. series, the Jirachi that may emerge from a Poké Ball uses Fly. Jirachi SSBB.png
495Snivy.png Snivy Razor Leaf Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS/Wii U
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
In the Super Smash Bros. series, the Snivy that may emerge from a Poké Ball uses Razor Leaf. Snivy SSB4.png

Moves that were possible at one point in the core series games

Artwork Name Move Game Notes Picture
025Pikachu.png Pikachu Skull Bash Super Smash Bros. Brawl,
Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS/Wii U
From Super Smash Bros. Melee onward, Pikachu's side special is Skull Bash. Although Pikachu cannot know this move from Generation III to VI, it was available to teach Pikachu via TM40 in Generation I, making it a possible move at the release of Melee (during Generation II). Skull Bash SSBB.png
150Mewtwo.png Mewtwo Teleport Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS/Wii U From its debut in Super Smash Bros. Melee onward, Mewtwo's up special is Teleport. Although Mewtwo cannot know this move from Generation III to VI, it was available to teach Mewtwo via TM30 in Generation I, making it a possible move at the release of Melee (during Generation II). None.png

Former errors

Artwork Name Move Game Notes Picture
003Venusaur.png Venusaur Earthquake Super Smash Bros. series In Super Smash Bros. Melee, the Venusaur that may emerge from a Poké Ball uses Earthquake, which Venusaur couldn’t learn until Generation III.
438Bonsly.png Bonsly Tackle Super Smash Bros. Brawl In the Super Smash Bros. series, the Bonsly that may emerge from a Poké Ball uses Tackle. However, Bonsly was unable to learn Tackle until Pokémon Legends: Arceus. Bonsly SSBB.png

Pokémon Mystery Dungeon series

Artwork Name Move Game Notes Picture
094Gengar.png Team Meanies Gengar Leer, Scratch, and Quick Attack Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team and Blue Rescue Team When this Gengar is being escorted through Mt. Freeze and Murky Cave with the player, it knows Leer, Scratch, and Quick Attack, as well as the legitimate move Taunt. These moves are the first four level-up moves of Absol or Sneasel in these games, the former being a Pokémon that helps the player in the journey up Mt. Freeze after defeating Articuno for the first time in Frosty Forest.

This was changed in the remake; it now has Shadow Ball, Sucker Punch, Hypnosis, and Dream Eater.

Gengar Quick Attack PMD RB.png

Pokémon Rumble series

Artwork Name Move Game Notes Picture
175Togepi.png Gift Togepi Draining Kiss Pokémon Rumble World A Togepi acquired via a password knows Draining Kiss, although Togepi could not learn this move this move at the time.

Due to Draining Kiss being a TM in Pokémon Sword and Shield that Togepi can learn, this is now possible in the Generation VIII core series games.

Gift Togepi Draining Kiss Rumble World.png
656Froakie.png Gift Froakie Water Shuriken Pokémon Rumble World A Froakie acquired via a password knows Water Shuriken. Gift Froakie Water Shuriken Rumble World.png

Pokémon GO

In Pokémon GO, several Pokémon may learn moves that they cannot learn in the core series games. While it is possible to transfer some Pokémon from Pokémon GO to Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!, their moves are not transferred.

As part of the August 19, 2016 server update, all moves of that type were removed from their respective Pokémon's move pools. However, later updates introduced additional cases where Pokémon can have moves that they cannot know in the core series games.

The following table lists moves that have been removed from the Pokémon's permanent move pools. Unlike most other legacy moves, and with the exception of Stomp for Hitmonlee, these moves cannot be learned using an Elite Fast TM or Elite Charged TM.

Pokémon Move Notes
Grimer Grimer Acid Grimer obtained prior to August 19, 2016, can have Acid as a Fast Attack.
Muk Muk Acid Muk obtained prior to August 19, 2016, can have Acid as a Fast Attack.
Hitmonlee Hitmonlee Stomp Hitmonlee obtained prior to August 19, 2016, can have Stomp as a Charged Attack.
Currently, Hitmonlee can learn Stomp using an Elite Charged TM.
Koffing Koffing Acid Koffing obtained prior to August 19, 2016, can have Acid as a Fast Attack.
Weezing Weezing Acid Weezing obtained prior to August 19, 2016, can have Acid as a Fast Attack.
Chansey Chansey Psybeam Chansey obtained prior to August 19, 2016, can have Psybeam as a Charged Attack.
Staryu Staryu Quick Attack Staryu obtained prior to August 19, 2016, can have Quick Attack as a Fast Attack.
Starmie Starmie Quick Attack Starmie obtained prior to August 19, 2016, can have Quick Attack as a Fast Attack.
Porygon Porygon Quick Attack Porygon obtained prior to August 19, 2016, can have Quick Attack as a Fast Attack.
Shedinja Shedinja Bite Due to an oversight, Shedinja obtained early on November 1, 2018, could have Bite as a Fast Attack. Shedinja's Fast Attack pool was changed shortly after its official release.

Former errors

Pokémon Move Notes
Jigglypuff Jigglypuff Play Rough Jigglypuff obtained prior to August 19, 2016, can have Play Rough as a Charged Attack, but could not know this move in core series games prior to Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!.
Currently, Jigglypuff can only learn this move in Pokémon GO using an Elite Charged TM.
Diglett Diglett Mud Shot Diglett obtained prior to August 19, 2016, can have Mud Shot as a Fast Attack, but could not know this move in the core series games prior to Pokémon Scarlet and Violet.
This move was added back to Diglett's move pool on March 1, 2024.
Dugtrio Dugtrio Mud Shot Dugtrio obtained prior to August 19, 2016, can have Mud Shot as a Fast Attack, but could not know this move in the core series games prior to Pokémon Scarlet and Violet.
This move was added back to Dugtrio's move pool on March 1, 2024.
Graveler Graveler Mud Shot Graveler obtained prior to August 19, 2016, can have Mud Shot as a Fast Attack, but could not know this move in the core series games prior to Pokémon Scarlet and Violet.
This move was added back to Graveler's move pool on March 1, 2024.
Golem Golem Mud Shot Golem obtained prior to August 19, 2016, can have Mud Shot as a Fast Attack, but could not know this move in the core series games prior to Pokémon Scarlet and Violet.
This move was added back to Golem's move pool on March 1, 2024.
Starmie Starmie Psybeam Starmie obtained prior to August 19, 2016, can have Psybeam as a Charged Attack, but could not know this move in the core series games prior to The Isle of Armor Expansion.
This move was added back to Starmie's move pool on March 1, 2024.
Omastar Omastar Rock Throw Omastar obtained prior to August 19, 2016, can have Rock Throw as a Fast Attack, but could not know this move in Generation III onward prior to Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!. Omastar had previously been able to know Rock Throw through an event in Generation II, which is not transferable to later generations.
Currently, Omastar can only learn this move in Pokémon GO using an Elite Fast TM.
Pichu Pichu Quick Attack Pichu obtained prior to February 16, 2017, can have Quick Attack as a Fast Attack, but could not know this move in the core series games prior to Pokémon Legends: Arceus.
Currently, Pichu has no way of learning this move in Pokémon GO.

Shadow and Purified Pokémon

Due to the mechanics behind Shadow Pokémon, the listed Pokémon will have Frustration as their Charged Attack as Shadow Pokémon and Return as their Charged Attack once purified, but these cannot learn either of these moves in the core series games.

As Frustration and Return have been traditionally moves that are available to all TM-compatible Pokémon and were TMs from Generation II to VII, all of the following Pokémon are either Pokémon that are incompatible with TMs in the core series games, or did not exist prior to Generation VIII.

Pokémon
Weedle Weedle
Kakuna Kakuna
Weezing Galarian Weezing
Magikarp Magikarp
Wobbuffet Wobbuffet
Sneasel Hisuian Sneasel
Beldum Beldum
Ursaluna Ursaluna
Sneasler Sneasler

Pokémon Quest

As most of these moves can be obtained by the player, the errors also apply to their evolved forms as well.

Artwork Name Move Notes Picture
010Caterpie.png Caterpie Take Down and Lunge Caterpie Take Down Quest.png
Caterpie Lunge Quest.png
013Weedle.png Weedle Lunge Weedle Lunge Quest.png
063Abra.png Abra Psybeam In the core series games, Kadabra and Alakazam can learn Psybeam. Abra Psybeam Quest.png
079Slowpoke.png Slowpoke Ice Punch In the core series games, Slowbro can learn Ice Punch. Slowpoke Ice Punch Quest.png
109Koffing.png Koffing Lava Plume Koffing Lava Plume Quest.png
118Goldeen.png Goldeen Splash Goldeen Splash Quest.png
123Scyther.png Scyther Lunge Scyther could not learn Lunge until Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. Scyther Lunge Quest.png
129Magikarp.png Magikarp
(Happenstance Island boss)
Hyper Beam Magikarp Hyper Beam Quest.png
146Moltres.png Moltres Lava Plume Moltres Lava Plume Quest.png
151Mew.png Mew Recover Mew Recover Quest.png

Pokémon UNITE

Artwork Name Move Notes Picture
UNITE Zoroark.png Zoroark Slash Slash can only be learned by Hisuian Zoroark in Pokémon Legends: Arceus. UNITE Zoroark Slash.png

Moves that were possible at one point in the core series games

Artwork Name Move Notes Picture
UNITE Gyarados.png Gyarados Dragon Breath and Bounce While Dragon Breath was available to teach Gyarados via TM24 in Generation II, it cannot be learned by Gyarados from Generation III onward. Due to the inability to transfer a Pokémon's moves over to Generation IX, this means that it was not a possible move at the time it became available. While Bounce was available to teach Gyarados via Move Tutor from Generation IV to VII and via TM52 in Generation VIII, it cannot be learned by Gyarados in Generation IX, meaning it was not a possible move at the time it became available. UNITE Gyarados Dragon Breath.png
UNITE Gyarados Bounce.png
UNITE Lapras.png Lapras Bubble Beam While Bubble Beam was available to teach Lapras via TM11 in Generation I, it cannot be learned by Lapras from Generation II onward. Due to the inability to transfer a Pokémon's moves over to Generation IX, this means that it was not a possible move at the time it became available. UNITE Lapras Bubble Beam.png
UNITE Mewtwo.png Mewtwo Teleport While Teleport was available to teach Mewtwo via TM30 in Generation I, it cannot be learned by Mewtwo from Generation II onward. Due to the inability to transfer a Pokémon's moves over to Generation IX, this means that it was not a possible move at the time it became available. UNITE Mewtwo Teleport.png
UNITE Falinks.png Falinks Beat Up While Beat Up was available to teach Falinks via TM37 in Generation VIII, it cannot be learned by Falinks in Generation IX. Due to the inability to transfer a Pokémon's moves over to Generation IX, this means that it was not a possible move at the time it became available. UNITE Falinks Beat Up.png

See also

References

Move errors in various Pokémon canons
Animated seriesMangaGameTCG
Project Games logo.png This game-related article is part of Project Games, a Bulbapedia project that aims to write comprehensive articles on the Pokémon games.