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Dex · Cross-generation reference

Move tutor moves

Move tutors are NPCs who teach specific moves to Pokémon in exchange for BP, Shards, or items. This list focuses on the most competitively relevant tutor moves you'll see referenced in Showdown sets.

MoveGenWhere to learnNotes
Draco MeteorGen 4+ Tutor in DPPT, ORAS, USUM120 BP special Dragon. Halves SpA after use.
Volt TackleEgg move Pikachu line120 BP, recoil.
Frenzy Plant / Hydro Cannon / Blast Burn / Hyper BeamGen 3+ Starter tutors150 BP, must recharge after use. Available to starter Pokémon only.
Counter / Mirror Coat / BideVarious Tutor in Gen 3-7Reflect physical/special damage. Niche on Wobbuffet, Quagsire.
Stealth RockGen 4+ Move tutor in Gen 4, TM in Gen 9Entry hazard. Now TM116 in SV.
Iron DefenseGen 4+ Tutor & TM146 in SV+2 Def. Pairs with Body Press for tanky setup.
DefogGen 4+ Tutor & HM in Gen 6Clears hazards from both sides. Lowers opponent evasion.
Heat WaveGen 4+ Move tutor in DPPT, ORAS95 BP, 10% burn. Hits both opponents in doubles.
Knock OffGen 4+ Move tutor in ORAS, USUM65 BP base, 1.5× if target has item. Removes item. Top-tier utility.
Pain SplitGen 4+ Move tutor in Gen 4Averages user and target HP. Niche recovery for low-HP attackers.

How move tutors changed over generations

Move tutors were a Gen 2 invention (Sevii Islands in Crystal taught Headbutt and a few others). They peaked in Gen 5 (Black 2 / White 2 had 100+ tutor moves) and have steadily declined since. In Scarlet/Violet, most former tutor moves are now TMs — every Pokémon that can learn them can learn them universally via crafting.

This list focuses on moves that are still 'tutor only' or that require Pokémon transferred from older games via HOME. If you're competing on Showdown, all moves are available regardless of in-game tutor access.