Bonds
The bond between a Pokémon and its trainer is not always stable; It can ebb and flow as the two parties interact with one another. In Pokémon 5e, the relationship between a Pokémon and its trainer moves through various Bond Levels. These levels each have different effects on the ability of a Pokémon, how well they listen to you, and even whether or not certain Pokémon can evolve.
Bond Levels
The following table describes the effects of each Bond Level:
| Level | Effect |
|---|---|
| +3 | This Pokémon has 3 Bond Points. Pokémon at this level have an incredible bond with their trainers, willing to risk their own life for their trainer's safety. |
| +2 | This Pokémon has 2 Bond Points. This Pokémon puts great trust in their owners, and enjoys spending quality time with them. |
| +1 | This Pokémon has 1 Bond Points. A content Pokémon shows a fondness and respect for their owners. Caught Pokémon very rarely begin at any bond level higher than this. |
| +0 | A neutral Pokémon responds to its trainers commands. Most recently caught Pokémon begin at this level or lower depending on the circumstances of their catch. |
| -1 | Upset Pokémon hold a small grudge against their trainers that affects them in battle. |
| -2 | At their discretion, the DM may have this Pokémon make an attack roll or ability check with disadvantage. Indifferent Pokémon do not care if their trainers win or lose. They will sometimes obey orders, and other times simply refuse to act. |
| -3 | At their discretion, the DM may have this Pokémon disobey their trainer's order, either doing nothing or acting on their own. Disloyal Pokémon hold disdain for being captured, and would rather be free. They have no need to impress their trainers, and actively disobey orders. |
Raising/Lowering Bond
Ultimately, the Bond Level of a Pokémon is determined by an agreement between you and the DM. Relationships are highly narrative, so there are no prescribed rules dictating when bond increases or decreases.
Examples of raising bond may include spending time with a Pokémon, seeking out snack and foods that the Pokémon enjoys, winning a particularly difficult battle, and so on.
Lowering bond may involve catching a Pokémon in an undeserving way, leaving a Pokémon in the PC for too long, allowing a Pokémon to faint from poison instead of healing it with antidote, and more.
Keep in mind that every Pokémon has a personality. Discover how your Pokémon's Nature interacts with your trainer's own personality!
Bond Points
Pokémon with a good bond with their trainer may spend Bond Points equal to their Bond Level for the benefits below. Your Pokémon regains expended Bond Points at the end of a long rest.
Advantage: When you roll a d20 for an ability check, attack roll, or saving throw, you can spend 1 Bond Point to gain advantage on the roll.
Disadvantage: When a creature rolls a d20 for an attack roll against you, you can spend 1 Bond Point to impose disadvantage on the roll.