Is Whirlpool necessary in Platinum?

Question

In Pokémon Soul Silver, Whirlpool was an HM needed to reach Lugia, which progressed the story.

Since Empoleon learns Whirlpool on its own in Platinum, I was curious to see if I need to keep Whirlpool and if it was as important as Surf. I think Whirlpool as a move is awful and would just take up room for moves I actually want.

Comments

You should have a dedicated HM user for these things either way.

Answer 1

Whirlpool is wholly useless in Platinum, as it is not an HM in this game and therefore doesn't do anything outside of battle. Surf is a much better choice for your Empoleon.

Whirlpool (Bulbapedia)