Is Ancient Power a Rock Move? A Comprehensive Guide
Yes, Ancient Power is definitively a Rock-type move in the Pokémon universe. Introduced in Generation II, this move not only deals damage but also carries a special effect that can significantly boost the user’s stats. Let’s delve deeper into what makes Ancient Power a notable move, its strengths, weaknesses, and how it compares to other Rock-type options.
Understanding Ancient Power
Ancient Power (Japanese: げんしのちから Primeval Power) is a damage-dealing Rock-type move. Before Pokémon X and Y, it was formatted as AncientPower. While its base power isn’t the highest, its potential to increase the user’s stats makes it a unique and potentially game-changing move in battle.
The Mechanics of Ancient Power
The primary function of Ancient Power is to inflict damage to the target. However, what sets it apart is its 10% chance of raising the user’s Attack, Defense, Special Attack, Special Defense, and Speed by one stage each. This all-stat boost can drastically alter the course of a battle, turning a potentially weak Pokémon into a formidable opponent.
How to Obtain Ancient Power
Unlike some moves, Ancient Power is not available as a TM (Technical Machine), TR (Technical Record), or through a Move Tutor in most games. Instead, Pokémon typically learn it through leveling up or as an Egg Move. To find out if a particular Pokémon can learn Ancient Power, consulting resources like Serebii.net or Bulbapedia is crucial.
Ancient Power: A Detailed FAQ
To provide a more comprehensive understanding of Ancient Power, here are 15 frequently asked questions:
FAQ 1: Is Ancient Power a strong move overall?
Ancient Power has a base power of 60, which isn’t exceptionally high compared to other Rock-type moves. However, its value lies in the 10% chance to raise all the user’s stats by one stage. If this effect triggers, the benefits often outweigh the relatively low damage output.
FAQ 2: How does Ancient Power compare to Power Gem?
Power Gem has a higher base power (80) and PP (uses) than Ancient Power. However, Ancient Power offers the potential for a significant stat boost. Whether Power Gem or Ancient Power is better depends on the situation and the Pokémon’s needs. If you prioritize consistent damage, Power Gem is the superior choice. If you’re willing to gamble for a potential stat boost, Ancient Power might be more appealing.
FAQ 3: Why is Ancient Power considered useful?
Ancient Power provides valuable coverage against Fire-type Pokémon and neutral coverage against Water-type Pokémon that resist Ice-type moves. Furthermore, its relatively low energy cost in some games (like Pokémon GO) and the potential stat boost make it a worthwhile move to consider, especially for Pokémon that lack other boosting options.
FAQ 4: Is Ancient Power better than Dragon Claw?
The comparison between Ancient Power and Dragon Claw depends on the specific Pokémon using the move and the context of the battle. For example, for a Pokémon like Archeops, Dragon Claw might offer higher neutral damage. However, if a Rock-type Pokémon uses Ancient Power, it receives STAB (Same-Type Attack Bonus), which increases the move’s damage. In most scenarios, if the user is a Rock-type Pokemon, Ancient Power will be the better choice.
FAQ 5: How is Ancient Power used for evolution?
Certain Pokémon, like Piloswine, require knowing Ancient Power to evolve. To evolve Piloswine into Mamoswine, you must have Piloswine relearn Ancient Power (using the Move Reminder) and then level it up. This is a specific evolution requirement for certain Pokémon.
FAQ 6: What are some of the best Rock-type moves in general?
Some of the most powerful and useful Rock-type moves include:
- Stone Edge: High critical hit ratio
- Diamond Storm: Powerful and has a chance to raise Defense
- Power Gem: Reliable with high accuracy
- Rock Slide: Good for double battles with a chance to flinch
- Stealth Rock: Sets up entry hazards
FAQ 7: Can Charizard learn Ancient Power?
Yes, Charizard can learn Ancient Power through breeding. Breed a female Charmander/Charmeleon/Charizard with a male Pokémon from the Monster or Dragon Egg Groups that knows Ancient Power. This is a common method for passing down Egg Moves.
FAQ 8: What is the chance of the stat boost from Ancient Power occurring?
Ancient Power has a 10% chance of raising the user’s Attack, Defense, Special Attack, Special Defense, and Speed by one stage each. While this isn’t a guaranteed boost, the potential payoff can be significant.
FAQ 9: What type of move is Ancient Power?
Ancient Power is a damage-dealing Rock-type move introduced in Generation II. Its type is fundamental to understanding its strengths and weaknesses in battle.
FAQ 10: Is Rock Slide better than Rock Throw?
Rock Slide is significantly better than Rock Throw. It has higher power and accuracy, as well as a chance to cause the target to flinch. Rock Throw is generally considered a very weak move.
FAQ 11: How do I relearn Ancient Power?
To have a Pokémon relearn Ancient Power, visit the Move Reminder NPC in any Pokémon Center. You’ll need to pay a fee (usually a Heart Scale) to relearn the move, replacing one of the Pokémon’s existing moves.
FAQ 12: What does Ancient Power do?
Ancient Power is a Rock-type move that deals damage and has a 10% chance to raise all of the user’s stats by one stage each. This dual functionality makes it a unique and potentially rewarding move.
FAQ 13: What is Ancient Power in Japanese?
Ancient Power in Japanese is げんしのちから (Genshi no Chikara), which translates to Primeval Power.
FAQ 14: Is Ancient Power a Special or Physical move?
In earlier generations of Pokémon, whether a move was Special or Physical depended on its type. In those generations, Rock-type moves, including Ancient Power, were Physical. However, in the Generation IV remakes Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl, as well as Pokemon Legends: Arceus, and every main-series game since, Ancient Power is a Special attack.
FAQ 15: What is the most accurate rock move?
Power Gem is the most accurate Rock-type move, with a 100% accuracy rating and a base power of 80. This makes it a reliable choice for dealing consistent damage.
Ancient Power: Conclusion
Ancient Power is a Rock-type move that offers more than just damage. Its potential to boost all of the user’s stats makes it a strategic choice for certain Pokémon and battle situations. Understanding its mechanics, strengths, and weaknesses can help you make informed decisions when building your team and planning your battles. Keep exploring the world of Pokémon and discover the best strategies for success. It’s worth remembering that the Games Learning Society is an excellent resource for anyone interested in the educational aspects of gaming and game design. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more.