[MegamanY]

I noticed that the first character, in terms of canon timeline, to have the Dash function in his parts is Forte. Unless there is evidence of another character having such capability, which I would thank you for providing, does this mean that Wily invented the Dash function, and going further would this mean that Light either stole it or developed it independently albeit later for the Light Armor's function?

[Zan]

Blues also used the dash maneuver in 7. In addition, Rockman acquired the Break Dash as early as Rockman World V.

[MegamanY]

So that would mean Wily stole the dash function by studying Blues? Thus once again restoring the fact that Wily steals everything from Light?

[Zan]

It means nothing of the sort. Not to mention, that´s a horribly wrong assessment of both Wily´s ability and character.

[Telos]

What Zan said. The assumption that propulsion being used for dashing is something that was exclusive to Blues, or Forte's designs is pretty ridiculous, when you consider the fact that plenty other Robot Masters have movements that can be considered as being Dash-based. It's like assuming X was the first ever robot to be able to cling to a wall, just because he was the first protagonist to do so, when it's a tactic that's been utilized by Robot Masters plenty of times in the past.

[Aya]

If Dr. Light implements the proper equipment, Rock could probably dash as well. Actually, considering on how the slide works, he could probably dash if he wants to.

The dash/slide is not just a "technique" that robots have to learn. It's a gameplay element. We could always assume that Rock knew how to slide since the very beginning, its just that he never discovered its use until MM3-8. When he couldn't slide in MM9-10, it doesn't mean he necessarily forgot how to slide, it was just removed out of the game designers' preference. Trying to explain why he doesn't slide is like trying to explain why Sonic doesn't have the "Super Peel-Out" move in future games post-Sonic CD. It's just a gameplay element, it has no significance towards the series' canon.

I know that I went a bit off-topic there, but I just felt that it had to be said.

[Telos]

Heck, in Marvel vs Capcom, Rock can wall-climb. So for all we know he COULD if circumstances allowed for it.

[MegamanY]

So I guess the last word can be said that both could have developed the technology independently or it was already there and neither invented it?

[Telos]

Already there, I say.