>>46480456As I've grown older I find I can't logically rationalise HMs in the Pokemon world. A Lapras can't use Surf unless you teach it to? A Pigeot can understand your commands during a battle but doesn't know what it means to Fly you places? A wild level 15 Onix can't move a large boulder but your level 40 Ekans can once you teach it the move?
Your suggestions do go some way to improve the situation, but there would still be examples of Pokemon knowing moves obviously able to cut a tree but unable to do so (e.g. normal type Fury Swipes).
What you could do it make it a really abstract concept like this:
1: This tree is blocking the way, however it looks like it could be cut down. But it's really thick! Your Pokemon aren't quite strong enough yet.
2. Gym Leader: Good job, kid. Your Pokemon really grew stronger just in this one battle alone. I bet they're strong enough now to cut down those big trees you saw on your way here, if they aren't already!
3: Your (Cut able Pokemon) braced itself and took aim at the tree blocking the way.
1: This water looks calm, but there's Pokemon beneath the surface! I bet a Pokemon could safely traverse it. Your (Surfable Pokemon) looks uneasy though and doesn't seem to like the idea of taking you for a ride.
2: Gym Leader: Wow! You and your Pokemon really showed a close bond in that battle. I bet there's nothing you couldn't do together with that kind of trust. Hey, do you like Surfing? It's really fun! I'm sure your Pokemon would have no trouble Surfing across the water with you. I bet they would enjoy it too!
3: The surface is calm. Your (Surf able Pokemon) splashes into the water and looks ready to take you across.
Strength would be the same deal as Cut.
Fly similar to Surf.
Whirlpool like Surf but I like the speed aspect you suggested anon.
etc. etc.
Posting an unrelated pic from the God Mikelan.
