6 Steps on How to Teach Your Smeargle Moves in Pokémon Violet

Smeargle in Pokémon Violet

In the vibrant world of Pokémon Violet, where the lines between past and future blur, there exists a unique and fascinating Pokémon known as Smeargle. Blessed with the extraordinary ability to learn any move it witnesses, Smeargle has become a coveted companion for trainers seeking versatility and strategic prowess. However, teaching Smeargle moves in Pokémon Violet is not as straightforward as with other Pokémon. This guide will unveil the secrets of imparting Smeargle with the moves it desires, empowering trainers to unlock its true potential.

The key to teaching Smeargle moves lies in a peculiar move called “Sketch.” Through Sketch, Smeargle can permanently add any move it sees another Pokémon use to its own repertoire. To initiate this process, simply have Smeargle in your party and engage in a battle with a Pokémon that knows the desired move. When the opponent Pokémon uses the move, Smeargle can use Sketch to learn it instantly. However, it’s worth noting that Sketch can only be used once per battle, so trainers must choose wisely which move to acquire.

Once Smeargle has Sketch the desired move, it can be permanently added to its moveset. To do this, visit a Pokémon Center and talk to the Move Tutor. For a small fee, the Move Tutor can teach Smeargle any move it has learned through Sketch. This process allows trainers to customize Smeargle’s moveset, tailoring it to their specific battle strategies. With a diverse arsenal of moves at its disposal, Smeargle becomes a formidable ally, capable of adapting to any situation and surprising opponents with its unexpected abilities.

Discovering Smeargle’s Artistic Capabilities

Smeargle, the painting Pokémon, is renowned for its unique ability to learn any move by imitating the moves of other Pokémon. However, unlike most Pokémon, Smeargle doesn’t acquire moves through traditional methods like level-up or TMs. Instead, it relies on the Sketch technique, an exclusive move that allows it to copy the last move used by any Pokémon within its field of vision.

Sketch is an incredibly versatile move, granting Smeargle access to a vast repertoire of attacks, from devastating physical strikes to subtle status-altering moves. Utilizing this ability effectively requires a deep understanding of the Pokémon’s artistic capabilities.

When Smeargle uses Sketch, it carefully observes the target Pokémon’s movements, memorizing every detail. This process involves not only the physical execution of the move but also the underlying energy and intent behind it. Smeargle’s artistic prowess then manifests as a painting on its canvas, which serves as a permanent record of the move’s essence.

However, this artistic process is not instantaneous. Sketch requires a brief period of concentration, during which Smeargle remains immobile. This can be a perilous situation in battle, as opponents may seize the opportunity to strike. Therefore, trainers must carefully consider the timing and positioning of Smeargle’s Sketch.

Once the painting is complete, Smeargle gains the ability to use the copied move, adding it to its own arsenal. This process can be repeated countless times, allowing Smeargle to acquire an astonishingly broad range of moves.

How to Use Sketch Effectively

To effectively utilize Sketch, trainers must understand the following guidelines:

Smeargle can only copy the last move used by the target Pokémon.
Smeargle must be facing the target Pokémon when it uses Sketch.
Smeargle cannot copy moves that are protected by the Protect or Detect abilities.
Smeargle cannot copy moves that are unique to specific Pokémon, such as the starters’ final evolutions.

Acquiring Move Sketches through Sketch

Sketch is a unique move that Smeargle can use to learn moves from other Pokémon. It allows Smeargle to copy the last move used by the opposing Pokémon, making it incredibly versatile.

Obtaining Move Sketches Using Sketch

To successfully obtain a move sketch, follow these steps:

Ensure Smeargle’s Sketch Slot is Empty: Smeargle can only learn one move through Sketch at a time. Check that its Sketch slot is unoccupied by using the “Check Moves” option in the Pokémon Summary screen.
Engage in Wild Pokémon Battles: Engage in wild Pokémon battles and wait for the opposing Pokémon to use a move you want Smeargle to learn.
Use Sketch at the Right Moment: Once the opposing Pokémon uses the desired move, quickly select “Sketch” from Smeargle’s move list. If timed correctly, Smeargle will learn the move permanently.

Note: Sketch has limited uses per day. Check the “Check Moves” option to see how many sketches Smeargle has left.

Move Sketch Compatibility

Not all moves are compatible with Sketch. The following table lists the types of moves that Smeargle cannot learn through Sketch:

Move Types
Z-Moves
Max Moves
Signature Moves
Moves with Different Effects

Skillful Swapping: Trading Sketches

Acquiring moves for Smeargle through sketching is a unique and engaging aspect of the game. To harness this ability, follow these steps:

Identify a Pokemon with the desired move:

Locate a wild Pokemon or an ally Trainer’s Pokemon that knows the move you want Smeargle to learn.

Enter Battle and Use Sketch:

Engage in battle with the selected Pokemon and switch to Smeargle. Use the move Sketch from Smeargle’s move set. Smeargle will then attempt to learn the move being used by the opposing Pokemon.

Successful Sketching and Move Acquisition:

If Smeargle’s Sketch is successful, it will learn the move and retain it permanently. However, if the sketch fails, Smeargle will not learn the move. Remember that Smeargle can only learn one move at a time using Sketch, so choose wisely.

Move	Sketch Location
Secret Power	Wild Pokemon in any area
Dragon Rage	Bagon in Casseroya Lake
Swords Dance	Pawniard in North Province (Area Three)
Zenith Headbutt	Lucario in North Province (Area Two)

Enhancing Smeargle’s Potential: Tutoring

Tutoring is a method of teaching your Smeargle new moves that it cannot learn naturally through leveling up. Tutors are NPCs located throughout Paldea who offer to teach specific moves to compatible Pokémon for a certain amount of money.

To access tutoring services, you must first obtain a Technical Machine (TM) of the desired move, either by finding it in the world or by crafting it at a TM Machine. Once you have the TM, you can take your Smeargle to a tutor who specializes in teaching moves of that type. However, it’s important to note that not all tutors teach the same moves, so you may need to visit multiple tutors to find the one you’re looking for.

The following is a table of tutors and the moves they teach for Smeargle:

Tutor	Moves Taught
Brassius (Artazon Gym)	Bullet Seed
Grusha (Glaseado Gym)	Icicle Crash, Icy Wind
Kofu (Cascarrafa Gym)	Close Combat, Drain Punch, Sword Dance
Ryme (Levincia Gym)	Thunderbolt, Volt Tackle
Larry (Medali Gym)	Hyper Beam, Solar Beam

Unlocking the Power of Copycat

Smeargle, the ultimate artist, possesses a unique ability known as “Copycat.” With this skill, Smeargle can learn and use any move it witnesses another Pokémon using. This guide will provide a detailed explanation of how you can unlock Copycat and empower your Smeargle with an arsenal of moves.

Catching Smeargle

To begin your Smeargle training, you must first encounter and capture one. Smeargle can be found in a variety of locations in Pokémon Violet, including grassy areas, forests, and even caves.

Learning Copycat

Once you have a Smeargle, it’s time to unlock Copycat. To do this, Smeargle must reach Level 20. Upon evolving into Smeargle at Level 20, it will automatically learn Copycat.

Observing Pokémon Moves

To teach Smeargle a move using Copycat, you need to witness that move being used by another Pokémon. You can do this in several ways:

Battling wild Pokémon
Participating in Trainer Battles
Watching other Trainers battle

Using Copycat to Learn Moves

Once Smeargle observes a move being used, it can use Copycat to learn that move itself. To do this, simply select Copycat from Smeargle’s move list. Smeargle will then copy the last move it witnessed another Pokémon use.

Expanding Smeargle’s Movepool

The possibilities for Smeargle’s movepool are endless. By observing a wide variety of Pokémon, you can teach Smeargle a comprehensive arsenal of attacks. The following table provides examples of some popular moves that Smeargle can learn using Copycat:

Move	Type	Category
Hyper Beam	Normal	Special
Earthquake	Ground	Physical
Hydro Pump	Water	Special
Fire Blast	Fire	Special
Thunderbolt	Electric	Special

With Copycat, Smeargle can adapt its movepool to complement its team’s strengths and weaknesses. By carefully observing and selecting moves, you can create a versatile Smeargle that can contribute to any battle situation.

Maximizing Move Diversity through Metronome

Metronome is a Normal-type move that allows Smeargle to use any move it has learned in its current moveset. This move opens up a world of possibilities for maximizing Smeargle’s move diversity and creating a versatile moveset. Here’s how to use Metronome effectively:

1. Learn a Wide Range of Moves

The key to using Metronome effectively is to have a wide range of moves available to Smeargle. Teach Smeargle as many different moves as possible, including moves from different categories and types.

2. Use Metronome Strategically

Metronome doesn’t always produce the desired move. Therefore, it’s important to use it strategically. If you need a specific move, try using Metronome multiple times in a row to increase the chances of getting it.

3. Use Metronome in Tandem with Other Moves

Metronome can be used in conjunction with other moves to create powerful combinations. For example, using Protect before Metronome can guarantee a move that turn, while using Substitute can protect Smeargle from damage while it uses Metronome.

4. Consider Using Choice Items

Choice items, such as Choice Scarf or Choice Band, can boost Smeargle’s stats but lock it into using a specific move. This can be a good strategy if you want to ensure that Metronome will always produce a specific move, such as a powerful attack or a status move.

5. Use Metronome to Exploit Weaknesses

Metronome can be a great way to exploit the weaknesses of your opponent’s Pokémon. If you know that your opponent has a specific weakness, use Metronome to try and use a move that will hit it super effectively.

6. Combine Metronome with Sketch

Sketch is a Normal-type move that allows Smeargle to learn the last move used by its opponent. Using Sketch before Metronome can give you access to even more moves, further expanding Smeargle’s move diversity. This strategy can be particularly effective in Double Battles, where you can sketch moves from both your opponents.

Move	Type	Category
Flamethrower	Fire	Special
Thunderbolt	Electric	Special
Blizzard	Ice	Special
Shadow Ball	Ghost	Special
Dragon Pulse	Dragon	Special

Paint the Battlefield: Smeargle’s Signature Moves

Smeargle, the Painter Pokémon, has a unique ability called Sketch, which allows it to copy the last move used by an opponent. This makes Smeargle a versatile Pokémon that can adapt to any situation by learning a wide variety of moves.

Sketch

Sketch is Smeargle’s most iconic move. With Sketch, Smeargle can copy the last move used by an opponent, including its power, accuracy, and type. Smeargle can only have one Sketch move at a time, and it will overwrite any previously learned Sketch moves.

Happy Hour

Happy Hour is a Normal-type move that does not deal any damage. Instead, it boosts the power of all moves Smeargle uses by 1.5x for three turns. This move is useful for setting up powerful attacks.

Protect

Protect is a Normal-type move that makes Smeargle invulnerable to all attacks for one turn. This move is useful for stalling out opponents and setting up other moves.

Follow Me

Follow Me is a Normal-type move that forces all opposing Pokémon to target Smeargle for one turn. This move is useful for protecting teammates from powerful attacks.

Baton Pass

Baton Pass is a Normal-type move that allows Smeargle to pass on its stat changes and status effects to another teammate. This move is useful for setting up a sweeper or support Pokémon.

Wide Guard

Wide Guard is a Rock-type move that protects all adjacent Pokémon from all spreading moves for one turn. This move is useful for protecting teammates from moves like Earthquake and Hydro Pump.

Recycle

Recycle is a Normal-type move that allows Smeargle to use a move twice in a row. This move is useful for setting up multiple stat changes or using powerful moves more than once.

Customizing and Optimizing Movesets

Once Smeargle has learned the desired moves, it’s time to customize and optimize its moveset based on team strategy and personal playstyle. Consider the following factors when selecting moves:

Type Coverage: Ensure Smeargle’s moves cover a wide range of types to effectively combat different opponents.
Priority: Include high-priority moves like Fake Out or Quick Attack to gain an advantage in battle.
Utility: Incorporate moves like Protect, Light Screen, or Reflect to protect allies or hinder opponents.
Coverage Moves: Teach Smeargle moves that provide coverage against specific types or Pokemon, such as Earthquake for Electric-types or Ice Beam for Grass-types.
Status Moves: Consider status moves like Toxic, Thunder Wave, or Spore to inflict debuffs on opponents.
Healing Moves: If Smeargle is used as a support Pokemon, teach it moves like Heal Pulse or Aromatherapy to restore HP and status conditions.
False Swipe: This move is useful for capturing Pokemon without fainting them.
Synchronize: This ability allows Smeargle to share its status conditions with the opposing Pokemon, making it a valuable support option.

Move	Type	Effect
Fake Out	Normal	Hits first and inflicts flinching
Earthquake	Ground	Damages Electric-types
Ice Beam	Ice	Damages Grass-types
Toxic	Poison	Gradually damages and poisons opponents
Heal Pulse	Psychic	Restores HP to allies
False Swipe	Normal	Damages without fainting
Synchronize	Ability	Shares status conditions with opponents

Unleashing Smeargle’s Versatility

Smeargle’s unique ability, Sketch, allows it to learn any move in the game, making it an incredibly versatile Pokémon. However, teaching Smeargle moves can be a bit tricky, as it can only learn moves from other Pokémon that are adjacent to it.

Obtaining a Smeargle

Before you can teach Smeargle moves, you first need to obtain one. Smeargle can be found in several locations in Pokémon Violet, including the North Province (Area Two) and the South Province (Area Six).

Teaching Smeargle Moves

Once you have a Smeargle, you can teach it moves by following these steps:

Place Smeargle in your party.
Find a Pokémon that knows the move you want to teach Smeargle.
Place the Pokémon next to Smeargle in your party.
Use the “Teach Move” option in the Pokémon menu.
Select the move you want to teach Smeargle.
Confirm the move.

TMs and TRs

Smeargle can also learn moves from TMs and TRs. To teach Smeargle a move from a TM or TR, simply use the item on Smeargle.

Move Deleter

If you want to delete a move that Smeargle has learned, you can use the Move Deleter in Montenevera. The Move Deleter can be found in the Pokémon Center on the east side of town.

Special Moves

Some moves, such as moves that are only available through events or breeding, cannot be taught to Smeargle. Additionally, moves that are exclusive to specific Pokémon, such as signature moves, cannot be taught to Smeargle.

Sketching Moves

When Smeargle uses Sketch, it will learn the move that is being used by the adjacent Pokémon. Smeargle can only sketch moves that are in its current level range. The following table shows the level range for each move type:

Move Type	Level Range
Normal	1-100
Fire	1-100
Water	1-100
Grass	1-100
Electric	1-100
Ice	1-100
Fighting	1-100
Poison	1-100
Ground	1-100
Flying	1-100
Psychic	1-100
Bug	1-100
Rock	1-100
Ghost	1-100
Dragon	1-100

Advanced Strategies for Competitive Play

1. Nature and Effort Value (EV) Optimization

Choosing the right Nature and maximizing EVs can significantly enhance Smeargle’s performance. Consider a Jolly Nature (+Speed, -Special Attack) with EVs invested in Attack and Speed for maximum offensive potential.

2. Movepool Customization

Smeargle’s Sketch move allows it to copy any move from an opponent. This versatility grants it access to an unparalleled array of competitive options. Tailor its movepool to counter specific threats or complement your team strategy.

3. Team Support

Smeargle can provide valuable support to its teammates with moves like Spore for sleep, Sticky Web for speed reduction, or Ingrain for additional staying power. Its flexibility allows it to adapt to various team compositions.

4. Baton Passing Utility

Smeargle’s Baton Pass move lets it transfer stat boosts and status changes to its teammate. By using Baton Pass in conjunction with moves like Quiver Dance or Calm Mind, Smeargle can empower its allies with significant advantages.

5. Priority Move Exploitation

With a movepool that includes Bulldoze, Focus Punch, and Icy Wind, Smeargle can take advantage of priority moves to disrupt opponents’ strategies or secure early KOs.

6. Stealth Rock Hazard

Smeargle’s access to Stealth Rock allows it to set up a hazard that damages opposing Pokémon upon entering the battlefield. This passive damage can weaken or even eliminate opposing threats.

7. Status Condition Manipulation

Moves like Spore, Toxic, and Will-O-Wisp grant Smeargle the ability to inflict status conditions on opponents, further disrupting their strategies or weakening their capabilities.

8. Weather Control

With moves like Rain Dance or Sunny Day, Smeargle can manipulate the weather conditions on the battlefield, benefiting certain Pokémon or hindering others.

9. Trick Room Support

Trick Room reverses the Speed order on the battlefield, benefiting slower Pokémon. Smeargle can use Trick Room to create opportunities for its teammates to attack first, even if they have lower Speed stats.

10. Sketch Viability in Competitive Play

Sketch remains a potent move in competitive play, allowing Smeargle to adapt to various opponents and team compositions. However, due to its reliance on Sketching moves from opponents, its effectiveness can vary depending on the matchup. Additionally, the need to set up Sketch can be a limiting factor in faster-paced competitive environments.

How To Teach Your Smeargle Moves In Pokemon Violet

In Pokemon Violet, the Painter Pokemon Smeargle can learn more than any other Pokemon, giving it a versatile and unique set of potential moves. However, unlike other Pokemon, Smeargle can only learn moves from Sketched from other Pokemon, instead of via leveling up or TMs. This makes the process of teaching Smeargle moves a bit more complex.

To teach Smeargle a move, you need to first find a Pokemon that knows the move. Once you have found the Pokemon, use Smeargle’s Sketch ability on it. This will allow Smeargle to learn the move. Note that Smeargle can only learn moves by sketching them while its Sketch ability is active. If Sketch is not active, Smeargle will not be able to learn the move.

Once Smeargle has learned the move, you can then start to train it. The more you use the move, the stronger it will become.