Mastering Stealth Rock TM in Pokémon Scarlet & Violet

Stealth Rock stands as one of the most influential moves in competitive Pokémon battling, particularly in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. This Rock-type entry hazard deals fractional damage to opposing Pokémon upon switching in, scaling with their type weaknesses and resistances. Trainers seeking to elevate their teams must prioritize acquiring and utilizing TM116, which teaches this vital move. This guide delves into every aspect, from pinpointing its wild location to infinite crafting methods and advanced tactics.

Understanding Stealth Rock’s Role in Modern Battles

Entry hazards like Stealth Rock transform battle dynamics by punishing frequent switches, a common tactic in high-level play. Unlike direct damage moves, Stealth Rock inflicts 12.5% to 50% of a Pokémon’s max HP based on its Rock-type matchup: 50% for 4x weak (e.g., Flying), 25% for 2x weak, 12.5% for resisted, and none for immune types. This passive chip damage accumulates over matches, often deciding outcomes in prolonged encounters.

In Scarlet and Violet’s Paldea region, Stealth Rock fits seamlessly into defensive and hyper-offensive strategies. Pokémon with natural access, such as those in the Roggenrola or Carbink lines, benefit immensely, but TM116 extends its reach to diverse team cores. Mastering its implementation requires knowledge of setup, removal counters like Defog or Rapid Spin, and synergy with moves like Spikes or Toxic Spikes.

Locating TM116 in the Wild: Step-by-Step Exploration

The sole wild copy of TM116 resides in Dalizapa Passage, a cavernous area in West Province (Area Two). Accessible mid-game after progressing through early gyms, this spot demands careful navigation. Head northwest from Medali, entering the passage via its western entrance. Inside, traverse the dimly lit tunnels until reaching the West Section—a elevated cliffside overlook marked by rocky outcrops.

Climb the sheer cliff face using Pokémon with moves like Rock Climb or by riding your mount’s enhanced mobility. Atop the highest ledge, a shimmering yellow Poké Ball item awaits. Interacting with it yields TM116 Stealth Rock. No battles or puzzles guard it, but wild Pokémon like Rockruff roam nearby, providing early material farming opportunities. For visual aid, trainers report success by aligning with the passage’s glowing crystals as landmarks.

• Preparation Tips: Stock Repels to avoid unnecessary fights; equip a Rock-type resist for safety.
• Alternative Access: Gliding from West Province cliffs shortcuts the ascent if unlocked.
• Verification: Confirm pickup via inventory; it’s non-respawning, so grab it once.

Unlocking Infinite Supplies: TM Machine Mechanics

Pokémon Scarlet and Violet revolutionize TM usage with craftable, single-use discs via Pokémon Center TM Machines. Obtaining the wild TM116 registers its recipe permanently, allowing endless production. Approach any Center’s green-counter side (left or right flank) and select “I want a TM made.” The interface displays all unlocked TMs, highlighting craftable ones in green upon material sufficiency.

No Pokédollars required—only League Points (LP) from Gym victories, Starfall Street progression, and Tera Raids. This system encourages exploration, as materials drop from specific Pokémon encounters. Crafting scales with inventory, supporting bulk production for team rotations or gifting allies.

This table showcases complementary Rock TMs for hazard-stacking teams.

Gathering Crafting Materials: Efficient Farming Routes

TM116 demands 5,000 LP alongside Pokémon-specific drops. Rolycoly Coal (x3) comes from the Rolycoly evolution line: Rolycoly in East Province (Area Three) caves, Carkol in nearby mines. Auto-battles or catches yield 1-2 coals per encounter; aim for 10+ runs. Rockruff Rock (x3) drops from Rockruff (ubiquitous in South Province Areas 1/4, East/West Province 1-2) and Lycanroc variants in Alfornada Cavern, Dalizapa, Glaseado Mountain, North Province (Area One), or Area Zero.

Farming Hotspots:

• Rolycoly Coal: East Province (Area Three) mines—overworld spawns cluster densely.
• Rockruff Rock: South Province (Area Four) plains for Rockruff swarms; Dalizapa for Lycanroc post-evolution.
• LP Boost: 5-6 star Tera Raids drop 3,000+ LP each; repeatables via Picnic resets.

Pro tip: Use Amulet Coin on carried Pokémon during farms to double drops indirectly via battle rewards. Evolve farmed Rockruff to Lycanroc (Day/Night/Midnight forms) for higher rock yields.

Compatible Pokémon: Who Learns Stealth Rock Best?

Dozens of Paldean natives absorb TM116, prioritizing sturdy defenders and spinners. Top picks include Corviknight (Defog immunity), Clodsire (hazard setter with Recover), and Garganacl (Salt Cure synergy). Full compatibility lists span Rock, Ground, Steel, and Ghost types, but test via TM Machine previews.

Elite Users:

• Corviknight: Roost + Defog + Stealth Rock core.
• Glimmora: Toxic Spikes + Stealth Rock double hazards.
• Ting-Lu: Protosynthesis abuser with immense bulk.
• Coalossal: Coal-specific drops tie into self-sustain.

Strategic Deployment: Building Around Stealth Rock

Lead with fast setters like Glimmora or entry via Baton Pass. Pair with Sticky Web for speed tiers or weather (Sandstorm boosts Rock chip). Counterplay includes Fairy-types (resists Rock) and hazard removers—pack your own Defog user. In VGC doubles, Stealth Rock pressures switches amid spread moves.

Advanced builds:

Common Pitfalls and Pro Tips for Success

Avoid over-reliance—opponents pack removers post-Gen 9 meta shifts. Farm during dawn/dusk for Rockruff evos. Bulk-craft TMs before raids. Integrate with DLC TMs like Spikes (TM122) for layered hazards.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can Stealth Rock be taught via breeding?
A: No, TMs are the sole method post-Gen 9; breeding passes egg moves only.

Q: Is TM116 missable?
A: No backtrack restrictions in open Paldea—return anytime.

Q: Best early-game setter?
A: Rockruff line, farmable immediately.

Q: LP farming without raids?
A: Grind Starfall Street bosses and rematches.

Q: DLC changes to Stealth Rock?
A: No alterations; crafting unchanged.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Game with Stealth Rock

Securing TM116 Stealth Rock unlocks a cornerstone of competitive viability in Scarlet and Violet. From Dalizapa cliffs to endless crafts, this guide equips you fully. Experiment, adapt, and watch foes crumble on entry.