It was a very long time ago that I mentioned the concept of "HM slaves" in relation to the eventual deprecation of the skill machines that gave rise to the concept, as well as one example of a Pokémon species that could become an example for this concept. This time, I want to bring up the concept again for discussion, but now the focus is on the treatment of Pokémon that become manifestations of the concept. For that, the matter might be obvious, but some other intricacies could also apply for the Pokémon.
Most obviously, these Pokémon are likely to have secondary treatment, since their HM moves are not likely to be used in battle, or alternatively not as effective as other moves of their own or the opponent. The Pokémon themselves are also for the most part not quite capable of high-level battle - or more precisely, not able to hold their own against more capable opponents. Thus, they're likely either stored until they're needed for an adventure, or they sit on the sidelines when a battle is taking place with other Pokémon.
Even so, if a certain Pokémon animation - featuring a very well-known "god" that can become the above - is of any indication, HM slaves can have a niche role: that of a "pinch hitter". If they happen to be part of a team and they happen to be the very last available Pokémon - again, as that animation would suggest, miracles can happen much like that one Pachirisu that saved a certain battle (though it's not one and the same). This is in part rather theoretical and imaginative, but not completely impossible in real battles.
By now, HM slaves are perhaps almost never unheard of again, except in the case of someone who is replaying games from older generations where they are relevant in the adventure. That relevance then leads into the consideration of their treatment, particularly when a battle is involved. Even if they may never have a primary treatment regardless of the situation, they may still be vital somehow in the situations, just as vital as the concept of HMs are to the early Pokémon games and their adventures.
One year ago: Overworld Items in Pokémon Go
Two years ago: Let's Go Rediscover and Renew
Three years ago: Tournament: SWEEP JR vs. Ferrothorns (SA Factions)
Four years ago: The Flame of Cyndaquil
Five years ago: Days of Friendships Persisting
Six years ago: The Signature Electric Type Species
Seven years ago: Partners in Crime, Partners in Time
Eight years ago: Pokémon Craft Figures - Mewtwo
Nine years ago: Crossovers!
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