In Pokémon X and Y, both Technical Machines (TMs) and Hidden Machines (HMs) serve the significant purpose of teaching Pokémon new moves, enhancing their versatility in battles and exploration. A key innovation in this generation is that both TMs and HMs are reusable, allowing players to teach moves to multiple Pokémon without the concerns of single-use items encountered in earlier iterations of the game.

Key Differences Between TMs and HMs

1. Functionality:
– TMs: These machines primarily teach moves that are used in battles. Players have the flexibility to replace TM-taught moves at any time, allowing Pokémon to adapt their move sets as strategies change.
– HMs: In contrast, HMs teach moves that often have practical applications in the game world, such as navigating obstacles. Examples of HM moves include Cut, Fly, and Surf. Unlike TMs, once a Pokémon learns an HM move, it cannot forget it through regular gameplay; instead, a visit to a Move Deleter is required if you wish to replace the move.

2. Teaching Process:
– To teach a TM/HM move:
1. Open your bag and select the desired TM or HM.
2. Choose which Pokémon should learn the move.
3. The Pokémon will automatically learn the move if eligible.
4. For TMs, if the Pokémon knows four moves already, you’ll have to choose one to replace. However, for HMs, no move can be replaced without using the services of a Move Deleter.

Obtaining TMs and HMs in Pokémon X/Y

– TMs: These can be found throughout the game world, either as items scattered across various locations, given by Non-Playable Characters (NPCs), or purchased in shops. The variety available allows players to customize their Pokémon strategically.

– HMs: Generally, HMs are awarded by NPCs after fulfilling certain tasks or by progressing to specific locations. For instance, you can obtain HM01 (Cut) in the Parfum Palace maze, and HM02 (Fly) from Professor Sycamore in Coumarine City.

Conclusion

In summary, TMs and HMs are vital tools that expand the move sets of Pokémon while providing diverse gameplay experiences. TMs offer flexibility and adaptability, allowing players to easily modify their Pokémon’s battles approach. In contrast, HMs are crucial for progressing the game by enabling functional moves necessary for exploration. Understanding how to effectively utilize both TMs and HMs is essential for players looking to navigate the challenges in Pokémon X/Y successfully.