Learn to Ride the Waves: Surfing in Pokémon Sword and Shield!
The short answer to where you can learn Surf in Pokémon Sword and Shield is: you don’t! Surf isn’t a move that’s learned in the traditional HM/TM sense in these games. Instead, your ability to traverse water is directly tied to your Rotom Bike upgrade, which you obtain on Route 9 after visiting Circhester. So, instead of teaching a Pokémon the move Surf, you’ll be upgrading your ride to become amphibious!
Unlocking Water Traversal: The Rotom Bike Upgrade
Instead of a specific character teaching surf, the man who originally gave you the Rotom Bike will upgrade it for you. This occurs after you’ve progressed far enough into the game, specifically after you’ve visited Circhester and start heading down Route 9. This upgrade essentially functions as Surf did in previous games, allowing you to explore watery areas, discover hidden items, and progress through the story.
The exact trigger for this upgrade is entering Route 9. As you begin to traverse the route, the same helpful NPC who provided you with your Rotom Bike earlier in the game will appear and grant you the upgrade. This upgrade enables you to ride the Rotom Bike on water, effectively giving you the “Surf” ability without actually teaching a Pokémon the move.
Why No Surf HM/TM? A Shift in Game Design
The removal of HMs (Hidden Machines) was a significant change in Pokémon Sword and Shield. In previous generations, HMs were crucial for both battling and navigating the world, often requiring specific Pokémon to learn them. Surf was a staple HM, allowing players to cross bodies of water. The removal of HMs streamlined the gameplay experience, removing the necessity of carrying a Pokémon purely for their HM capabilities.
This design shift emphasizes using Pokémon with strong move-sets for battle and removes the need for HM “slaves” (Pokémon solely used for their HM capabilities). The Rotom Bike’s water-crossing ability simplifies exploration and allows you to focus on building a powerful team without sacrificing valuable move slots. The Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/ explores these kinds of changes in game design and how they impact player experiences.
Exploring the Waterways of Galar
Once you have the upgraded Rotom Bike, a vast new world opens up to you. Numerous areas previously inaccessible become available for exploration. Be sure to check every nook and cranny, as you’ll find valuable items, rare Pokémon, and hidden secrets scattered throughout the waterways of the Galar region. This also opens up a new dimension to your journey, allowing you to engage with the environment in ways you previously couldn’t. The water is now your highway to new adventures!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can any Pokémon learn Surf in Pokémon Sword and Shield?
No, no Pokémon can learn Surf in Pokémon Sword and Shield. The move is not available as a TM or HM in these games. Instead, you traverse water using the upgraded Rotom Bike.
2. Where do I get the Rotom Bike?
You receive the Rotom Bike on Route 5. A helpful NPC will give it to you after you’ve progressed a certain distance.
3. How do I upgrade the Rotom Bike to ride on water?
After visiting Circhester and entering Route 9, the same NPC who gave you the bike will appear and upgrade it, allowing it to travel on water.
4. Do I need a specific gym badge to use the upgraded Rotom Bike?
No, you don’t need a specific gym badge to use the upgraded Rotom Bike on water. Once you have the upgrade, you can use it immediately.
5. What are the benefits of the Rotom Bike upgrade?
The primary benefit is the ability to traverse water, opening up new areas to explore, discover items, and catch new Pokémon. It also streamlines gameplay by eliminating the need for an HM slave.
6. Are there any hidden items or Pokémon only accessible with the upgraded Rotom Bike?
Yes! Many items and Pokémon are hidden in areas only accessible by riding the Rotom Bike on water. Explore thoroughly!
7. Is there a Surf equivalent in Pokémon Sword and Shield for battling?
While Surf isn’t a move that can be learned, there are plenty of strong Water-type moves that can be taught to Water-type Pokémon, such as Hydro Pump, Waterfall, and Scald.
8. What happens if I try to enter the water without the upgraded Rotom Bike?
You simply won’t be able to enter the water. Your character will be blocked from proceeding, indicating that you need the upgrade.
9. Is the Rotom Bike upgrade missable?
No, the Rotom Bike upgrade is not missable. It’s a mandatory part of progressing through the game and will be given to you automatically on Route 9.
10. Does weather affect the Rotom Bike’s performance on water?
No, weather does not affect the Rotom Bike’s performance on water. You can use it regardless of the weather conditions.
11. Is it possible to fall off the Rotom Bike while riding on water?
No, it is not possible to fall off the Rotom Bike while riding on water. The bike is designed to be stable in aquatic environments.
12. Are there any differences between the Rotom Bike’s performance on land versus water?
The Rotom Bike generally performs the same on land and water. However, you may find that the camera angles slightly adjust to accommodate the water environment.
13. Can I customize the Rotom Bike in any way?
While you cannot fundamentally alter the Rotom Bike‘s functionality, you can customize your character’s outfit and accessories to match the bike’s aesthetic.
14. Does the speed of the Rotom Bike change after the upgrade?
No, the upgrade to the Rotom Bike primarily adds the water-traversing ability. The speed remains the same as on land.
15. Where can I find more information on game design elements in Pokemon Sword and Shield?
The GamesLearningSociety.org explores how elements like the removal of HMs and the introduction of the Rotom Bike reflect larger trends in game design and learning experiences.
This Rotom Bike upgrade is a key part of the Pokemon Sword and Shield experience. Get out there and start exploring!