There are few more anticipated games set to be released on the Nintendo Switch towards the end of 2022 than Pokemon Scarlet & Violet. The retro-feel to the Pokemon games ensure that they remain among the most successful, with the titles appealing to both younger and older demographics.
Retro games have been given a rebirth, with a growing number of old-school arcade bars opening up around the United Kingdom, including NQ64 in Birmingham. But, what do we know so far about the latest Pokemon release, which will hit the shelves in November?
Differences Between the Games
Unlike the most recent release of Pokemon Arceus, the releases of Scarlet and Violet revert back to the original games, which will see two releases. Both will offer players something slightly different, with the uniform being worn by the character dependent on the game selected.
Meanwhile, the legendary Pokemon available in the game is different depending on the selection chosen, with Scarlet players able to capture Koraidon and Violet players able to get Miraidon. As well as that, players will need to have friends with the opposite title to complete the Pokedex, as Larvitar and Stonjourner are exclusive to Scarlet, and Bagon and Eiscue will be exclusive to players of Violet.
Setting
One of the most exciting new changes for the latest Pokemon games is the fact that players will be able to explore the completely new region of Paldea. The location is based on the Iberian Peninsula in Europe, it will offer a completely new open-world feel for players.
The biggest change is that players will be able to explore the whole area irrespective of the story, which means that players will be able to take on gym leaders in any order that they wish. This is a first for the series, as players have typically had to take on gym leaders in the exact order to progress through the game, but this change is likely to be one that is welcomed by fans.
Unique Pokemon
The ninth Generation of Pokemon game is also going to introduce a new mechanic known as Terastal Pokemon. This will enable Pokemon in the game to transform into gem-like creatures and every Pokemon in the game will have the ability to do this. However, all Pokemon that can be caught will be able to transform into slightly different variations.
Players will need to find a Tera Orb to make this happen, and it can then be used in battle. The Orbs can then be charged at Pokemon Centers, while further orbs can be found around Paldea. Furthermore, there is the exciting addition of new Pokemon, including the three starters- Sprigatito, Fuecoco and Quaxly.
Raid Battles Retur
Like in Pokemon Sword and Shield, Dynamax Raids return in Scarlet and Violet, which will give players the opportunity to work together with other players to try and defeat and capture some of the strongest Pokemon in the game. Like in Sword and Shield, players will be able to take on the battles online with friends and offline with NPCs.