He used Lycanroc to easily defeat the 3 Skull Grunts as well as in the battle against Ash and his Rockruff. Gladion uses Lycanroc very often in the Anime, it seems to be the Pokemon he depends on often in Battles. Type: Null evolved into Silvally after it ran to save Lillie from the control of Faba's Alakazam, and then used the Dark Memory to defeat both Hypno and Alakazam. Gladion tries to keep Type: Null calm while it has its restraints on, and tries to get the bond between the two to grow. Gladion stole Type: Null from the Aether Foundation lab, as he wasn't pleased with how they were using it as nothing but a test subject. He trains Type: Null in preparation for when he needs it to fight off the threat of Ultra Beasts. Gladion only battles against strong trainers so he can truly test his power, this is likely due to him knowing the inevitability of Ultra Beasts appearing in the Alola Region, thanks to his mother Lusamine. He is shown to care deeply for his Pokemon, especially Type: Null, who he tries to bond with and keep out of sight from people, excluding Ash. Gladion becomes more friendly towards Ash, and seems to enjoy battling against him. Although he was initially only looking for strong trainers, he changes when he meets Ash and realises he's helping look after his younger sister Lillie. In the Anime, Gladion shows far more personality. After this, Gladion begins to show more respect towards the player as he acknowledges the players strength and willingness to help. The only time the player begins to see Gladion open up is when Lillie is kidnapped by Team Skull. He doesn't interact much, and doesn't seem to enjoy anyones company, as when the player enters his apartment, he immediately tells them to get out.

In the games, Gladion is very hostile and closed off to the player and others.

Gladion pokemon smile