Pokémon "Terastallize" Into Crystal Forms in New 'Pokémon Scarlet and Violet' Trailer

Since its announcement at the beginning of the year, Pokémon fans have eagerly awaited Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, the upcoming mainline entry into the internationally-adored RPG series. Stepping into the 9th generation of Pokémon games, the titles notably are referenced as the first open-world RPG in the series.

Unlike previous games, the cover’s legendary Pokémon, Koraidon and Miraidon, serve as all-terrain vehicles with the user being able to ride them as they run, scale cliffs, traverse water and glide through the open landscape of the Paldea region. Emphasizing the freedom of choice, the story of the games is split into three parts that can be approached whenever. The first and most familiar portion is collecting the eight gym badges of the region. For the first time ever, the sequence in which trainers complete gyms is completely up to the user, allowing for a true open-world experience that will certainly improve its replay value.

Following up on Dynamax, Z-Moves and Mega Evolutions from previous generations, Terastallizing is the newest battle mechanic to shake things up. In summary, Pokémon are given a Tera Type that is inactive until the Pokémon Terastallizes. Upon activating this mechanic, the Pokémon will undergo a transformation into a gem-like look and the Pokémon’s type will change to its Tera Type. In the context of battling, this is certain to provide an entire new layer to strategy for competitive trainers to explore.

Check out the latest trailer for the anticipated titles above and look for Pokémon Scarlet and Violet to hit shelves worldwide November 18 exclusively on the Nintendo Switch. Pre-orders are available now via Nintendo and select retailers.

In other gaming news, a Halloween-themed Pokémon trading card game is on the way.