In the Pokémon universe, moves play a crucial role in battles, strategy, and overall gameplay. One move that has attracted attention among trainers is Covet, a Normal-type move known for its unique ability to steal the opponent’s held item while dealing damage. Covet is particularly useful in both competitive and casual play because it combines offensive power with utility, allowing Pokémon to disrupt opponents’ strategies. Understanding which Pokémon can learn Covet, how they acquire it, and how to best use it in battle is essential for trainers who want to optimize their teams and take full advantage of this move’s potential.
Understanding Covet
Covet is a Normal-type move that deals damage while also allowing the user to steal the opponent’s held item if the opponent is holding one. The move has a power of 60 and 100% accuracy, making it reliable in battle. Its utility lies in the ability to remove key items from opponents, such as Leftovers, Choice items, or Berries, potentially disrupting their strategy. Covet also has the benefit of being a physical move, which can complement certain Pokémon with high Attack stats.
Key Features of Covet
- Type Normal
- Power 60
- Accuracy 100%
- Effect Steals the opponent’s held item if possible
- Category Physical
How Pokémon Learn Covet
Pokémon can learn Covet through several methods, depending on the generation and species. These methods include leveling up, breeding, and using Technical Machines (TMs). Each method provides flexibility for trainers who want to incorporate Covet into their strategy.
Level-Up
Some Pokémon learn Covet naturally as they gain experience and level up. This method is straightforward and allows the Pokémon to acquire Covet without external intervention. Trainers can plan team development to ensure Pokémon learn Covet at an optimal level for battles.
Breeding
Covet can also be passed down from parent Pokémon to offspring through breeding. Pokémon that already know Covet can breed with compatible partners to produce baby Pokémon that inherit the move. Breeding is particularly useful for trainers who want to give Covet to Pokémon that cannot learn it through leveling up or TMs, expanding strategic options.
Technical Machines (TMs)
In certain generations, Covet can be taught using TMs. By using a TM, trainers can teach Covet to compatible Pokémon regardless of their natural level-up moves. This method allows for greater team customization and ensures that Covet can be strategically applied to Pokémon who benefit most from it in battle.
Pokémon That Can Learn Covet
Covet is primarily learned by small, nimble, or Normal-type Pokémon, often with high Speed and moderate Attack stats. While the list varies slightly across generations, certain Pokémon are known for consistently being able to learn Covet either through leveling up or breeding.
Examples of Pokémon That Learn Covet
- Pikachu – Known for its high Speed and electric attacks, Pikachu can learn Covet through breeding or events.
- Shinx – A versatile Electric-type Pokémon that benefits from the combination of Covet and physical attacks.
- Cleffa and Clefairy – Normal-type Pokémon with supportive utility, able to use Covet for item disruption.
- Budew – Grass/Poison-type Pokémon that can learn Covet via breeding, making it a flexible early-game utility option.
- Meowth and Persian – Classic Normal-type Pokémon that can use Covet to disrupt opponents in strategic play.
- Jigglypuff and Wigglytuff – Popular Normal-type Pokémon with a variety of moves, including Covet for stealing held items.
- Azurill – A small Normal-type Pokémon that learns Covet via breeding, adding early-game utility.
Strategic Uses of Covet
Covet is a move that combines damage and utility, making it a versatile tool in battles. Trainers can use Covet to remove opponents’ key items, which may significantly weaken their strategy. For example, stealing a Choice Band or Leftovers can disrupt powerful Pokémon that rely on those items for their effectiveness. Covet can also be used as a tactical move in combination with other status or damage-dealing moves.
Stealing Items
The primary strategic advantage of Covet is its ability to steal held items. Removing items like Leftovers, Berries, or Choice items can prevent opponents from healing or boosting their attacks, giving the Covet user a significant advantage. Trainers should prioritize targets with valuable held items and consider timing for maximum effect.
Complementing Physical Attackers
Covet is a physical move, which makes it ideal for Pokémon with higher Attack stats. Combining Covet with other physical moves or STAB (Same Type Attack Bonus) moves can maximize damage output while simultaneously providing utility by stealing items. Trainers should carefully choose Pokémon whose stats and speed allow them to strike first and disrupt opponents efficiently.
Utility in Competitive Play
In competitive environments, Covet can serve as a situational move to counter certain strategies. For example, using Covet to steal a Focus Sash can prevent an opponent from surviving a powerful attack, turning the tide of battle. Trainers often use Covet in combination with other status or support moves to control the battlefield strategically.
Considerations When Using Covet
While Covet is useful, trainers must consider its limitations. Covet only works if the opponent is holding an item that can be stolen, meaning it may be ineffective against Pokémon without items or those with items that cannot be taken. Additionally, as a physical move, it may not be ideal for Pokémon with low Attack stats. Timing and target selection are crucial for maximizing Covet’s effectiveness in both casual and competitive battles.
Planning for Maximum Effect
To get the most out of Covet, trainers should plan carefully. Consider the opponent’s possible items, Pokémon types, and the timing of the move in battle. Using Covet on the right target can provide an immediate advantage and disrupt opponents’ long-term strategy. Trainers should also combine Covet with other moves to create versatile strategies that adapt to different opponents.
Covet is a powerful and versatile move that combines damage and utility, making it a valuable option for many Pokémon in both casual and competitive battles. By understanding how Pokémon learn Covet through leveling up, breeding, or TMs, trainers can strategically equip their teams with this useful move. Covet’s ability to steal items can disrupt opponents’ strategies, complement physical attackers, and provide tactical advantages in various scenarios. Choosing the right Pokémon and employing careful planning ensures that Covet remains an effective tool for maximizing team performance and enhancing battle strategies in the Pokémon universe.