In the vibrant world of Pokémon Go, trainers often seek out unique and elusive Pokémon to enhance their collections. One such Pokémon is Smeargle, known for its distinctive ability to mimic moves. Capturing Smeargle requires a different approach compared to other Pokémon. This guide will walk you through the steps to add this artistic creature to your Pokédex.
Credits – Gamesradar
Unlike most Pokémon that appear in the wild, Smeargle introduces a creative twist to the capture process:
Snapshot Feature: To encounter Smeargle, you need to use the game’s AR Snapshot mode.
Photobomb Mechanic: While taking snapshots of your Pokémon, there’s a chance that Smeargle will “photobomb” your picture by appearing unexpectedly.
Post-Photobomb Encounter: After Smeargle appears in your photo, it will spawn on the map, allowing you to engage and attempt to catch it.
Step-by-Step Guide to Capturing Smeargle
To successfully add Smeargle to your collection, follow these detailed steps:
Open the AR Snapshot Mode:
Navigate to your Pokémon inventory and select a Pokémon you’d like to photograph.
Tap the camera icon to enter the AR Snapshot mode.
Take Multiple Snapshots:
In AR Snapshot mode, take several photos of your chosen Pokémon.
After capturing a few images, exit the mode by tapping the exit button.
Review Your Photos:
Upon exiting, the game will display the photos you’ve taken.
Check each photo to see if Smeargle has appeared in any of them.
Encounter Smeargle:
If Smeargle has photobombed one of your pictures, it will appear on the map once you return to the main game screen.
Tap on Smeargle to initiate the capture sequence.
Capture Smeargle:
Use Poké Balls and berries as needed to catch Smeargle.
Once caught, Smeargle will be added to your Pokédex.
Tips to Increase Your Chances
While encountering Smeargle relies on chance, you can optimize your efforts with these strategies:
Consistency: Regularly use the AR Snapshot feature daily to maximize opportunities for Smeargle to appear.
Variety: Photograph different Pokémon to keep the experience engaging and potentially influence Smeargle’s appearance.
Patience: Understand that Smeargle’s photobomb is random, and it may take multiple attempts before you encounter it.
Smeargle’s Move Mimicry
One of Smeargle’s standout features is its ability to mimic the moves of the Pokémon it photobombs:
Copied Moves: When Smeargle photobombs a Pokémon, it will adopt that Pokémon’s current moveset upon capture.
Strategic Planning: To obtain a Smeargle with desired moves, photograph a Pokémon that possesses the moves you want Smeargle to learn.
Event-Specific Opportunities
Occasionally, Niantic hosts events that increase the chances of encountering Smeargle:
Increased Photobomb Limits: During certain events, the number of times Smeargle can photobomb per day may rise, offering more capture opportunities.
Shiny Smeargle: Some events introduce the chance to encounter a Shiny variant of Smeargle, distinguished by its unique coloration.
Recent Event Highlight: Festival of Colors 2025
A notable event that featured Smeargle was the “Festival of Colors” held from March 13-17, 2025:
Event Bonuses:
Shiny Smeargle was available during this period.
Trainers could encounter Smeargle up to 10 times per day through photobombs.
Regional Perks:
Players in India enjoyed exclusive bonuses, such as a kurta-wearing Pikachu in raids and additional candy per raid Pokémon caught.
Post-Event Availability
After such events conclude, the availability of Shiny Smeargle typically reverts to standard rates, making these events prime opportunities for collectors.
