Can You Change Fast Attacks in Pokémon GO? A Comprehensive Guide
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Yes, absolutely! You can change the Fast Attack of your Pokémon in Pokémon GO, but it requires a specific item called a Fast TM (Technical Machine). Using a Fast TM will randomly re-roll your Pokémon’s current Fast Attack to another Fast Attack that it is eligible to learn. Let’s dive into the details of how Fast TMs work, how to get them, and address some frequently asked questions.
Understanding Fast TMs and How They Work
Fast TMs are invaluable tools for customizing your Pokémon’s moveset. In Pokémon GO, each Pokémon has the potential to learn a limited set of both Fast Attacks and Charged Attacks. A Fast TM allows you to change only the Fast Attack, while a Charged TM is used to change the Charged Attack.
How to Use a Fast TM:
- Go to your item bag.
- Scroll down to your collection of TMs.
- Select Fast TM.
- Choose the Pokémon you want to teach a new Fast Attack.
- The game will display the Fast Attacks that your Pokémon is eligible to learn.
- Confirm your selection. Your Pokémon will then randomly learn one of the available Fast Attacks.
It’s important to note that the change is random. You are guaranteed to receive a different Fast Attack each time you use a Fast TM, but you cannot specifically choose which new attack you’ll receive. This sometimes requires using multiple TMs to get the desired move.
Obtaining Fast TMs
Fast TMs aren’t exactly common, but there are several ways to get them:
- Winning Raid Battles: Completing Raid Battles is one of the most reliable ways to earn Fast TMs. Higher-level raids offer a better chance of dropping a TM.
- Reaching a Research Breakthrough: Completing seven days worth of Field Research Tasks grants a Research Breakthrough, which often includes a Fast TM as a reward.
- Completing certain Special Research Tasks: Certain Special Research Tasks may reward Fast TMs. Keep an eye out for these tasks.
- Winning battles in the Battle League: Participating and winning in the GO Battle League can reward you with Fast TMs. The higher your rank, the better your chances.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Changing Fast Attacks
1. Why is it important to change a Pokémon’s Fast Attack?
A Pokémon’s moveset significantly impacts its performance in battles. Some Fast Attacks are more effective in certain situations than others. You might want to change a Fast Attack to optimize for PvP (Trainer Battles), Raids, or Gym battles.
2. Can I choose which Fast Attack my Pokémon learns when using a Fast TM?
No, the change is random. You will receive a different Fast Attack from the ones available to your Pokémon, but you cannot choose the specific one. This may require using multiple TMs until you get the desired move.
3. Are there any Pokémon that cannot have their Fast Attack changed?
Shadow Pokémon with the Frustration Fast Attack generally cannot have it removed with a Fast TM unless there is a special event that allows it. This is a key consideration when building a team. Purified Pokémon cannot relearn Frustration.
4. How often are events that allow Shadow Pokémon to unlearn Frustration held?
The frequency of these events varies, but Niantic usually announces them on the official Pokémon GO blog and in-game notifications. It’s always good to keep an eye on these channels.
5. What is the best Fast Attack in Pokémon GO?
The “best” Fast Attack is subjective and depends on the Pokémon and the situation. Factors like damage per second (DPS), energy generation, and move type effectiveness all play a role. Websites like GamePress offer comprehensive move rankings.
6. How does a Pokémon’s Speed stat affect its Fast Attack?
The Speed stat does not directly affect the Fast Attack itself in Pokémon GO. Instead, different Fast Moves have different speeds and durations. Generally, the faster your Pokémon, the better it is to use it in battles.
7. What is the difference between a Fast TM and a Charged TM?
A Fast TM changes the Fast Attack of a Pokémon, while a Charged TM changes its Charged Attack. They are distinct items used for modifying different aspects of a Pokémon’s moveset.
8. Where can I find more information about move types and effectiveness in Pokémon GO?
Many online resources, including the official Pokémon GO website and fan-made databases, provide charts detailing type matchups and move effectiveness. Understanding type matchups is crucial for strategic battling. You may also find some insights over at the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.
9. Can I get a Fast TM from spinning PokéStops or Gyms?
No, Fast TMs are not typically obtained from spinning PokéStops or Gyms. They are primarily earned through Raid Battles, Research Breakthroughs, Special Research Tasks, and the GO Battle League.
10. Is it worth using a Fast TM on a Pokémon with a legacy move?
Whether or not to use a Fast TM on a Pokémon with a legacy move depends on the move’s usefulness. Legacy moves are moves that are no longer obtainable through normal gameplay. Some legacy moves are incredibly powerful and valuable, making the Pokémon with such moves highly sought after. Research the value of the move before making a decision.
11. How do I know if a Fast Attack is a good choice for my Pokémon?
Consider the move’s DPS, its energy generation, and how well it complements the Pokémon’s Charged Attacks. Also, factor in the type effectiveness against common opponents.
12. Can I revert back to a previous Fast Attack after using a Fast TM?
No, once you use a Fast TM, the previous Fast Attack is lost. There is no way to revert to a prior move, so think carefully before using a TM.
13. What are some strategies for using Fast TMs effectively?
Start by identifying the Fast Attacks that are considered optimal for your Pokémon based on its role (e.g., attacker, defender, PvP specialist). Then, be prepared to use multiple TMs if necessary to achieve the desired move.
14. Does tapping the screen faster during a Fast Attack make it more powerful?
No, tapping the screen during a Fast Attack does not increase its power. The power of a Fast Attack is predetermined by its stats. You should avoid “overtapping,” as it can interfere with using your Charged Attacks.
15. Are Fast TMs more difficult to obtain than Charged TMs?
The difficulty in obtaining Fast TMs and Charged TMs is generally comparable. Both are relatively rare compared to other items, but they can be earned through the same activities: Raid Battles, Research Breakthroughs, Special Research Tasks, and the GO Battle League.