Unlocking Moonblast TM in Scarlet & Violet

The Moonblast TM, designated as **TM129** in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, stands out as a premier Fairy-type move that trainers seek for its high damage output and utility in competitive play. This special attack harnesses lunar energy to strike opponents while carrying a chance to diminish their Special Attack stat, making it invaluable against Dragon-types and other threats.

Understanding Moonblast’s Core Mechanics

Moonblast delivers **95 base power** as a Fairy-type special move with **95% accuracy** and **15 PP** (extendable to 24 with PP Up). Its signature effect triggers a **30% chance** to lower the target’s Special Attack by one stage, disrupting setup sweepers and special attackers effectively. In the Paldea region, this move shines in coverage roles, countering Steel, Dark, Dragon, and Fighting types that dominate the meta.

Unlike physical moves, Moonblast benefits Pokémon with high Special Attack stats, allowing them to bypass common defensive typings. Trainers should prioritize it on teams lacking Fairy coverage, as it provides super-effective hits against many Gym Leaders and Titan Pokémon.

Primary Acquisition: Conquering the Fairy Crew Base

To access the Moonblast TM recipe, trainers must challenge and defeat **Ortega**, leader of the Team Star Fairy Crew, located in the North Province (Area Three). This base forms part of the Starfall Street storyline, where players infiltrate to dismantle the crew’s operations.

Approach the base by navigating the rocky terrains northeast of Medali. Upon arrival, a cutscene initiates the battle sequence. First, endure the initial swarm of level 55-57 Fairy-type Pokémon like Fidough, Tinkatuff, and Dachsbun. Then, face Ortega’s personal team:

• Azumarill (Lv. 56, with Belly Drum and Play Rough)
• Gardevoir (Lv. 56, strong special attacker)
• Tinkaton (Lv. 56, Steel/Fairy hammer wielder)
• Sylveon (Lv. 57, ace with high Special Defense)

Counter with Poison, Steel, or Fire moves. Pokémon like Garchomp or Heatran excel here. Victory unlocks the TM129 recipe at all Pokémon Centers’ TM Machines.

Crafting the TM: Materials and League Points

Post-unlock, craft unlimited copies at any Pokémon Center TM Machine. Requirements include:

LP accumulates from raids and victories. Materials drop from wild encounters or Picnic sandwich boosts targeting those species. Repeated crafting enables team-wide coverage.

Alternative Methods: Exploring Hidden Locations

Beyond crafting, a wild **TM129** pickup exists on a floating grassy islet west of the Fairy base, amid North Province waters. Spot the glowing yellow Poké Ball icon, swim or fly over, and collect it directly. This one-time find supplements crafting for early access.

Note: No additional TMs appear in shops or raids specifically for Moonblast, emphasizing the base conquest as the core path.

Top Pokémon for Moonblast Mastery

Assign Moonblast to high Special Attack Fairy-types or coverage users. Key learners via TM include:

Non-Fairies like Gholdengo or Meowscarada benefit for coverage. Level-up learners like Clefairy (Lv. 44) reduce TM dependency.

Strategic Applications in Paldea Battles

Moonblast thrives in Gym challenges, Elite Four, and DLC content. Against Larry’s Staraptor or Hassel’s Baxcalibur, it delivers critical hits. Pair with Calm Mind users like Hatterene for sweeping potential.

In competitive formats, it checks threats like Kingambit or Roaring Moon. The SpA drop synergizes with priority moves, pressuring foes before they retaliate. Terastallize to Fairy for STAB boosts, amplifying damage to 142.5 effective power.

Vs. types breakdown:

• Super Effective: Dragon, Dark, Fighting
• Resisted: Fire, Poison, Steel
• Immune: None

Historical Context Across Pokémon Generations

Moonblast debuted in Generation VI, absent in earlier titles. In Sword/Shield, it was **TR92**, bought from Watt Traders or raided in Fairy dens. Brilliant Diamond/Shining Pearl omitted a TM version, limiting it to level-up. Scarlet/Violet’s crafting system revolutionizes access, allowing infinite use without one-time limits.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Can’t find the base? Fast-travel to North Province (Area Three) marker. Recipe not appearing? Ensure Starfall Street progress and Ortega defeat. Materials scarce? Use Sparkling Power sandwiches at Picnics for boosted drops.

FAQs

Advanced Builds Featuring Moonblast

For competitive viability, consider this Sylveon set:

• Moves: Moonblast, Hyper Voice, Calm Mind, Mystic Water
• Item: Choice Specs
• Nature: Modest
• EVs: 252 SpA / 252 Spe / 4 HP

This maximizes damage while leveraging Pixilate for Hyper Voice STAB.

Flutter Mane variant: Moonblast / Shadow Ball / Dazzling Gleam / Booster Energy, emphasizing speed control.