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Pokémon Scarlet and Violet have been out for quite some time now and both have amassed a major fanbase as all mainline Pokémon games do. Though, as the years go on, both versions of Pokémon entries become more distinct from each other. This has players wondering, which game is better between the two Gen 9 entries: Scarlet and Violet.
What Are the Differences Between Pokémon Scarlet and Violet?
Like previous games, both Scarlet and Violet take place in the region of Paldea and generally feature the same adventure and story beats. However, with Gen 9, they seem to have made both game versions even more distinct than the last time.
More N4G Unlocked: Is Scarlet and Violet connected to Pokémon Home?
Theme and Lore
Both Scarlet and Violet are diametrically opposed when it comes to their themes. Scarlet is based on prehistoric times while Violet is themed around the future. Both versions also have distinct color schemes with Scarlet being red and Violet being purple.
The Scarlet Book and the Violet Book are also items exclusive to their respective versions. These are key items to the story of each game with both informing the protagonist of a different version.
Professor Characters
Both versions have different professors that start you out on your journey. Scarlet has Professor Sada while Violet has Professor Turo. These characters are important throughout the game’s main story. So, if you particularly like one over the other, that wouldn’t be a bad deciding factor when choosing what version of the game to get.
Pokémon Scarlet Exclusives:
- Armarouge
- Tauros (Blaze Breed)
- Koraidon
- Larvitar/Pupitar/Tyranitar
- Stonjourner
- Drifloon/Drifblim
- Oranguru
- Stunky/Skuntank
- Skrelp/Dragalge
- Deino/Zweilous/Hydreigon
Pokémon Violet Exclusives:
- Ceruledge
- Tauros (Aqua Breed)
- Miraidon
- Bagon/Shelgon/Salamence
- Eiscue
- Misdreavus/Mismagius
- Passimian
- Gulpin/Swalot
- Clauncher/Clawitzer
- Dreepy/Drakloak/Dragapult
Exclusive Paradox Forms
Arguably the most noteworthy distinction between both games is the inclusion of a unique set of Paradox Pokémon in each version. These powerful Pokemons become available in the post-game and obtaining them can be a significant achievement for any player.
Pokémon Scarlet Exclusives:
- Great Tusk
- Scream Tail
- Brute Bonnet
- Flutter Mane
- Slither Wing
- Sandy Shocks
- Koraidon
- Walking Wake
Pokémon Violet Exclusives:
- Iron Treads
- Iron Bundle
- Iron Hands
- Iron Jugulis
- Iron Moth
- Iron Thorns
- Miraidon
- Iron Leaves
More N4G Unlocked: Is There Level Scaling in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet?
Academies and Outfits
In Scarlet, you’ll attend Naranja Academy while you’ll be in Uva Academy in Violet. The two academies have different motifs with Naranja having an orange motif and Uva having a purple one.
The starting outfits in Scarlet and Violet have different color schemes with Scarlet featuring a red-orange tie and shorts with yellow pinstripes while Violet has a purple tie and shorts. The shoes and hats also differ between the two versions.
Which Pokemon Game Should You Buy?
Both Pokémon Scarlet and Violet are, quite unsurprisingly, very similar. This makes it particularly challenging to decide which one is right for you. For many, the deciding factor would be the version of exclusive Pokémon. However, obtaining most of these exclusive ‘mons through online trades is possible.
This means that the remaining variations mainly depend on the visual appearance and aesthetic. Notably, the theme differences between the prehistoric and sci-fi styles may significantly impact your decision. The preference for either style is subjective and if you have a particular style preference that aligns with your color choices, choosing one version over the other should not be a problem.
Remember, there is no wrong choice when picking which Pokémon game you’re going to buy, only the right choice for you.
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