How to Get Rock Smash in Pokémon Emerald? A Detailed Guide – Pokémon Emerald is one of the most beloved games in the franchise, packed with exciting challenges and puzzles that require players to strategically use Hidden Machines (HMs). One essential HM in the game is Rock Smash, a move that allows players to break small rocks blocking their path and progress through the Hoenn region. If you’re wondering how to get Rock Smash and use it effectively, this guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions.

What Is Rock Smash in Pokémon Emerald?

Rock Smash is both an HM (Hidden Machine) and a move in Pokémon Emerald. It serves two primary purposes:

• Overworld Use: Rock Smash breaks rocks that block paths, uncovering new routes or hidden items.
• Battle Use: In battles, Rock Smash is a Fighting-type move with 20 base power that has a chance to lower the opponent’s Defense stat.
• Though its power isn’t high, its utility in progressing through the game makes it indispensable.

Where in Pokémon Emerald Can I Find Rock Smash?

Acquiring Rock Smash is a straightforward process, but it involves completing specific tasks. Here’s how to get it:

1. Travel to Mauville City

Mauville City is the key location where you’ll obtain Rock Smash. If you haven’t reached Mauville yet, follow these steps:

• From Rustboro City, travel east through Route 116 and into Rusturf Tunnel to reach Verdanturf Town.
• From Slateport City, head north along Route 110. Use the Cycling Road for faster travel if you already have a bike from the Mauville Bike Shop.

2. Visit the Rock Smash Guy’s House

Once you’re in Mauville City:

• Locate the house to the right of the Pokémon Center.
• Inside, you’ll find the Rock Smash Guy, a friendly NPC who offers to teach you about the move.
• Speak to him, and he will give you the HM06 Rock Smash.

Using Rock Smash in Pokémon Emerald: A Guide

1. Teach Rock Smash to a Pokémon

After obtaining the HM, you’ll need to teach it to one of your Pokémon. Follow these steps:

• Open your menu and select Bag.
• Navigate to the TM/HM Pocket and select HM06 Rock Smash.
• Choose a compatible Pokémon to learn the move.

Pokémon That Can Learn Rock Smash:

Many Pokémon can learn Rock Smash, including common ones like:

• Zigzagoon
• Geodude
• Makuhita
• Hariyama

Consider teaching Rock Smash to a Pokémon you don’t use frequently in battle to avoid wasting a valuable move slot on your main team members.

2. Earn the Dynamo Badge

You cannot use Rock Smash outside of battle until you’ve defeated Wattson, the Electric-type Gym Leader in Mauville City. To earn the Dynamo Badge, you’ll need to:

• Defeat Wattson’s team, which includes Electric-type Pokémon like Voltorb, Electrike, and Magneton.
• Prepare for the battle by bringing Ground-type Pokémon like Geodude or Marshtomp, as they are resistant to Electric moves.
• Once you earn the Dynamo Badge, Rock Smash becomes usable in the overworld.

3. Use Rock Smash in the Overworld

To break rocks blocking your path:

Walk up to a rock and press A.

• If a Pokémon in your party knows Rock Smash and you have the Dynamo Badge, you’ll receive a prompt to use the move.
• Select “Yes,” and the rock will shatter, clearing your path.

Locations Where Rock Smash Is Essential

Throughout your journey in Hoenn, Rock Smash is required to progress. Here are some key areas where you’ll need to use it:

1. Rusturf Tunnel

Early in the game, Rusturf Tunnel is partially blocked by rocks. After obtaining Rock Smash and the Dynamo Badge:

• Return to Rusturf Tunnel and use Rock Smash to clear the rocks.
• Doing this reunites a couple, and you’ll receive a reward: HM04 Strength.

2. Fiery Path

Rock Smash is necessary to access certain areas within the Fiery Path, a volcanic cave located on Route 112.

3. Route 111

On your way to Fallarbor Town, you’ll encounter rocks blocking your path. To continue your trip, use Rock Smash.

4. Victory Road

In the late game, Victory Road features several puzzles requiring Rock Smash to reach the Pokémon League.

Tips for Using Rock Smash Strategically

While Rock Smash is crucial for exploration, it has limited utility in battle due to its low power. Here are some tips for managing its use:

1. Use a Utility Pokémon

To avoid compromising your main team’s move sets, teach Rock Smash to a Pokémon designated for HM use. Zigzagoon and Linoone are excellent choices since they can learn multiple HMs.

2. Replace It Later

Once you’ve unlocked Move Deleter services in Lilycove City, you can remove Rock Smash from your Pokémon’s move set. This is especially useful if you’ve taught it to a team member with limited move slots.

3. Combine with Strength and Surf

Many areas requiring Rock Smash also benefit from other HMs like Strength and Surf. Plan your team’s HM distribution to ensure you’re prepared for all obstacles.

Additional Benefits of Using Rock Smash

Using Rock Smash isn’t just about clearing your path—it also provides opportunities to find hidden items and encounter rare Pokémon.

1. Finding Items

Breaking rocks sometimes yields valuable items like Nuggets, Heart Scales, or Rare Candy. Always check the area after using Rock Smash.

2. Catching Pokémon

In certain locations, breaking rocks triggers wild Pokémon encounters. For example, you might encounter:

• Geodude
• Graveler
• Shiny Pokémon (if you’re lucky!)

Use these encounters to build your Pokédex or train your team.

Conclusion

Rock Smash is an essential HM in Pokémon Emerald that unlocks new areas and provides opportunities to find hidden items and rare Pokémon. By obtaining it in Mauville City and earning the Dynamo Badge, you can use this versatile move to enhance your journey through the Hoenn region.

While its battle utility is limited, its role in exploration makes it a must-have. By following this guide, you’ll be fully equipped to navigate obstacles and maximize your adventure in Pokémon Emerald.