Why Did Pokémon Remove HMs and What Replaced Them?

Learn why Pokémon removed HMs to improve gameplay flexibility and what features replaced them for better exploration.

Published

Video transcript

Pokemon got rid of HMs to streamline gameplay and make the experience more dynamic and flexible. HMs often restricted players' ability to form diverse teams since specific Pokémon had to be kept in the party just for their HM abilities. Replacing HMs with more versatile and non-restrictive features like ride Pokémon or Poke Rides allows for easier exploration without compromising team composition.

Questions and answers

  1. What are HMs in Pokémon games?

    HMs, or Hidden Machines, were special moves used outside of battle to navigate the game world, such as Cut or Surf.

  2. Why did Pokémon developers remove HMs?

    Developers removed HMs to allow players more flexibility in team building and to streamline gameplay by replacing restrictive mechanics with more dynamic features.

  3. What replaced HMs in recent Pokémon games?

    HMs were replaced with features like ride Pokémon or Poke Rides, allowing exploration without forcing specific Pokémon to be in the party.