Quickies: Surf's Up, Surf's Down

There's a certain capability of certain Pokémon species that I still have some fascination with, and that would be the field usage of the Surf move to go across water. From the perspective inside Pokémon, it is neat that one in theory can exploit this capability of specific Pokémon to get to different places separated by water. The Surf move alludes to both the natural phenomenon of waves and the fact that they can be ridden on, as in by way of a board. It is an intriguing capability if not a bit quirky.

The quirk lies in the fact that practically most Water-type Pokémon can learn the move and then take their Trainers across. For large Pokémon, it would seem to be fine, but for smaller Pokémon, it could prove to be a hassle even if the capability is there. It may be that because of the quirk, the capability is rarely demonstrated except with bigger Pokémon like Lapras that can actually conceivably carry people. As quirky as it may be (being the subject of some funny conjectures), the capability is unique and can't be dismissed.

If I were an actual Trainer, I would likely have to make use of Pokémon that can make use of the capability. The drawback is that I'm not too fond of being over water since I can't swim, so the usage of small Pokémon wouldn't suit me too well, and I'd need Lapras as above or even Wailmer to do so more comfortably. The "surfing challenges" in Alola as actual "surf" venues wouldn't suit me too well either, and I'd take the boat instead. Perhaps some Trainers might share the same sentiments.

It may be that this capability is quirky or becoming less relevant, especially in more current Pokémon adventures. Yet it remains something that is established about Pokémon and their relationships with people. For some people and at certain times, the "Surf" may be up and it may be time to make use of the capability to a full extent; for others and different times, the "Surf" may be down and some other means may be necessary. That's fascinating enough for me, however much the Pokémon capability pertains.

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Four years ago: Have You Seen My Childhood?