Unlocking the Potential of Smeargle in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet

Smeargle makes its return in the game Pokemon Scarlet and Violet through the Indigo Disk expansion. Many new fans may quickly dismiss Smeargle due to its limited move set, usually only possessing the move Sketch. However, this creature is actually one of the most versatile choices in the competitive scene of the series.

For those aware of Smeargle’s potential, it can be challenging to create the right conditions to construct it using its signature move. Fortunately, the latest expansion provides many resources that a clever trainer can utilize to build Smeargle exactly as they desire. So, what should players pay attention to in relation to Smeargle and its unconventional way of learning new moves?

All You Need to Know about Smeargle’s Sketch in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet

Smeargle and Ditto are the only fully evolved Pokemon that cannot learn moves through TM, HM, or TR, which makes them intriguing choices. To compensate for this, Smeargle has the ability to learn any move, except for Struggle, Chatter, and shadow moves from GameCube spin-off adventures. There is also a limitation in that Smeargle can learn these moves but cannot use them for game balance reasons.

Here’s how it works: Smeargle uses its move Sketch. Smeargle obtains this move at level 1. Normally, it would have the chance to learn this move again every 10 levels. However, thanks to the move relearning system in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, Smeargle receives this move only once but can freely relearn it an unlimited number of times.

During battles, Sketch will replicate and permanently copy the last move used by the target. Normally, the only effective way to predict and control Smeargle’s move is through a double battle by copying the ally’s move. However, this can be challenging to execute since double battles are not common in the basic game of Pokemon Scarlet and Violet.

Fortunately, every battle in the Blueberry Academy from the Indigo Disk expansion is a double battle. This allows players to use a regular trainer to teach Smeargle any move they desire.

Is Smeargle Competitively Useful in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet?

Smeargle will always be competitive in the newly released Pokemon game, but it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a good choice. Smeargle’s ability to learn any move in the game is balanced by its weak stats. This means it won’t have significant applications beyond moves with guaranteed secondary effects, such as flinching with Fake Out or reducing accuracy with Mud Slap.

In most situations, Smeargle is used purely as a support role, with a wide selection of various support moves depending on the player’s preference. Some choose Transform to turn Smeargle into a reflection of the opponent’s team, gaining their stat buffs as well. Others use it for stat boosts and passing them to other Pokemon with Baton Pass.

For safety, most players utilize a mixed support role for Smeargle, helping the team in various ways. Fake Out inflicts flinch on a powerful opponent at the beginning of a battle. Spore is used to put opponents to sleep with 100% accuracy. Follow Me redirects certain attacks to Smeargle, protecting an ally. Lastly, defensive moves like Spiky Shield or Burning Bulwark prevent damage while also benefiting from secondary effects.

Sources:
More about Smeargle on Sportskeeda: [link](https://www.sportskeeda.com/tag/smeargle)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are Smeargle’s abilities in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet?

Smeargle has the ability to learn any move through its signature move, Sketch. It can learn any move except for Struggle, Chatter, and shadow moves from GameCube spin-off adventures.

2. How can I use Smeargle’s Sketch in the game?

In Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, Smeargle obtains the move Sketch at level 1. It can relearn this move every 10 levels, but thanks to the move relearning system in the Indigo Disk expansion, it can freely relearn Sketch an unlimited number of times for free.

3. How does Sketch work during battles?

During battles, Sketch replicates and permanently copies the last move used by the target. To predict and control Smeargle’s move effectively, double battles are the most useful since it can copy its ally’s move.

4. Is Smeargle competitively useful in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet?

Smeargle is competitive in the game, but its weak stats balance its ability to learn any move. It is usually used in a support role, offering a wide range of supporting moves such as Fake Out, Spore, Follow Me, and defensive moves.

Sources:
More about Smeargle on PokeSting: [link](https://www.pokesting.com/tag/smeargle)

The source of the article is from the blog bitperfect.pe