Legendary Grounding: Which Legendary Pokémon Can’t Take Flight?
It’s a question that has plagued Pokémon trainers since the very beginning: which of those powerful, elusive Legendaries are actually grounded? The answer, while seemingly straightforward, requires a bit of nuanced understanding of the Pokémon world. Several Legendary Pokémon cannot learn the move Fly, but whether they can actually fly depends on your definition. Those Legendaries that cannot learn the move fly include: Groudon, Zekrom, Reshiram, and Diancie. However, whether they can fly in the traditional sense varies. Some levitate or have other means of propulsion, while others are strictly bound to the earth.
Unveiling the Grounded Gods: A Closer Look
Let’s dissect this further. We must first establish that the “Fly” move is not the singular determinant of a Pokémon’s ability to fly.
The Case of Groudon
Groudon, the Continent Pokémon, is a prime example. This Ground-type behemoth, known for its ability to expand continents, cannot learn Fly. It’s a physically imposing creature, designed to embody the earth’s power. Groundon is so large that it seems impossible that it would be able to fly, and its type only strengthens this hypothesis.
The Tao Trio: Zekrom and Reshiram
While they may have wings, Zekrom and Reshiram, part of the Tao trio with Kyurem, are Dragon types. This trio cannot learn the move fly, yet are still able to get around. Both Pokémon are large and heavy looking which means that they probably use a lot of energy to fly around.
The Enigmatic Diancie
Finally, Diancie cannot learn Fly. As a Rock/Fairy-type, Diancie’s power stems from manipulating diamonds. Its primary mode of transportation is more akin to levitation than traditional flight.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To further clarify this aerial enigma, here are 15 frequently asked questions about Legendary Pokémon and their flight capabilities:
1. Can all Flying-type Legendary Pokémon learn Fly?
Not necessarily. While many Flying-types can learn Fly, it’s not a universal rule. The ability to learn Fly is more of a game mechanic than an absolute indicator of flight ability. For example, Rayquaza doesn’t need to learn Fly to soar through the stratosphere.
2. Is there a distinction between “flying” and “levitating” for Pokémon?
The Pokémon world blurs the line. While some Pokémon, like Groudon, are explicitly grounded, others, like Rayquaza, seem to defy gravity without traditional wings. The difference is largely semantic and left to the interpretation of trainers and fans.
3. Why can’t some Pokémon with wings learn Fly?
Game balance and design choices likely play a significant role. Some Pokémon might be considered too powerful or strategically advantageous if they could also use Fly. Or sometimes the specific Pokémon that is designed might be unable to learn it!
4. Does Mega Evolution affect a Legendary’s ability to fly?
Mega Evolution doesn’t inherently grant or restrict the ability to learn Fly. It primarily enhances stats and sometimes alters typing or abilities. If a Pokémon couldn’t learn Fly before Mega Evolving, it typically can’t afterward either.
5. Are there any Legendary Pokémon that should be able to fly but can’t?
This is subjective. Some fans might argue that certain Dragon-types, like Gyarados, visually appear capable of flight and should be able to learn Fly, despite not being able to.
6. How does a Pokémon’s weight affect its ability to fly?
While weight likely plays a factor in the realism of flight, it doesn’t seem to be a strict limitation in the Pokémon world. Some incredibly heavy Pokémon are still depicted as capable fliers.
7. Can any non-Flying-type Legendary Pokémon naturally fly (without using Fly)?
Absolutely. Rayquaza, a Dragon/Flying-type, is a prime example. It soars through the atmosphere without needing the Fly move. It uses other unknown methods to remain in the air.
8. Do all Legendary birds learn fly?
They all learn fly. The legendary birds, Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres are all Flying type Pokemon that learn the move fly. However, some of these legendary birds might have been more powerful had they been able to learn fly, but could not due to certain design choices.
9. Is the ability to use Fly related to a Pokémon’s intelligence?
Not necessarily. The ability to use Fly is more closely tied to the Pokemon’s type or physical capabilities. The ability to use Fly, may or may not indicate a pokemon’s overall intelligence.
10. How do Legendary Pokémon that can’t fly travel long distances?
They likely use other methods of transportation, such as teleportation, swimming (if Water-type), or simply traversing the land on foot. Some may even be carried by other Pokémon or trainers.
11. Does the anime portray Legendary Pokémon flying differently than the games?
Yes, the anime often takes creative liberties. Pokémon that can’t learn Fly in the games might be depicted flying in the anime, prioritizing visual spectacle over strict adherence to game mechanics.
12. Are there any glitches in the games that allow non-flying Legendary Pokémon to use Fly?
While glitches are sometimes discovered in Pokémon games, they are rare and not intended as part of the core gameplay. Exploiting glitches can sometimes allow unintended moves or abilities, but this is not a reliable or legitimate way to assess a Pokémon’s intended capabilities.
13. Why do people want their Pokémon to fly?
The “Fly” move is useful for many reasons. A big benefit is the ability to travel, as players use it to go around the map. However, a Pokémon’s ability to fly is also about the coolness factor.
14. Does the TCG affect any legendary Pokemon and its ability to fly?
No. The trading card game has no bearing or affect on any legendary pokemon and the pokemon’s ability to fly. Fly is a feature within the video game, so naturally, a card game can’t change the type.
15. How does the ability to fly affect a Pokémon’s battle strategy?
Flying-type Pokémon are immune to Ground-type moves and often have access to powerful Flying-type attacks. Their ability to Fly can also be used strategically for evasion or to gain an advantage in certain terrains. This contributes to the Pokémon’s overall versatility and strategic value in battle.
Conclusion: The Sky’s Not the Limit for All Legends
While many Legendary Pokémon dominate the skies, some remain firmly grounded. Whether due to design choice, type limitations, or game balance, these grounded gods offer a unique perspective on the vast and varied world of Pokémon. They remind us that power comes in many forms, not just the ability to soar. The key takeaway is that whether a Pokémon can learn Fly is not the sole determinant of its ability to fly. Some Pokémon defy easy categorization, embodying a spirit of freedom and power that transcends the limitations of game mechanics. To further explore the intersection of games and learning, visit the Games Learning Society website at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/ or GamesLearningSociety.org.