In the Pokmon universe, attacks capable of striking multiple opponents simultaneously are a significant strategic element. For instance, Earthquake can damage all adjacent Pokmon on the field, excluding the user. These widespread attacks are often associated with specific types, such as Ground, and can be learned by a variety of species through leveling up, Technical Machines (TMs), or Hidden Machines (HMs).
Such attacks offer distinct advantages in both player-versus-player and player-versus-environment scenarios. They are particularly effective against groups of weaker foes, allowing for swift clears of areas with multiple wild Pokmon. In competitive battles, these attacks can pressure opposing teams by spreading damage, potentially weakening multiple targets for subsequent knockouts. The introduction of these attacks in earlier generations of Pokmon games significantly impacted battle strategies, adding a layer of complexity beyond single-target combat.