Legendary Insights: Pokémon Scarlet and Violet’s Meta Analysis
The competitive Pokémon landscape is bracing for a seismic shift as the introduction of Regulation G uncorks the bottle of restricted Legendary Pokémon, potentially altering strategies across the board in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. With pros already deep into the analysis of impending meta changes, we’re gleaning invaluable perspectives on which Legendary threats will dominate the field and the counters aspiring to keep them in check.
From the Europe International Championships (EUIC) to intimate discussions with elite VGC players like Jeudy Azzarelli, James Baek, and Aaron “Cybertron” Zheng, a panoramic view of the future battlefield takes shape. Here’s what the pros say about the forces poised to impact the evolving competitive scene.
Shadow Rider Calyrex dances into the spotlight, anticipated as a game-changer. Its blistering speeds and towering Special Attack, coupled with the devastating Astral Barrage, spells trouble for opponents. But UWG thanks to the volatile landscape of Reg. G, its Psychic/Ghost Achilles’ heel is less of a liability and more of an opportunity—an opportunity to capitalize on Terastallization’s defensive benefits. “Because of Terastallization, I think it only gets better,” muses VGC player Joseph Ugarte.
However, as with any force of nature, counterforces arise. Alex Gómez Berna projects an uptick in bulky Dark-type usage to counter the spectral threat. “Defensive Dark-types can have success in these future regs,” posits Berna, forecasting a spike in their strategic value.
The introduction of Scarlet and Violet’s very own Gen IX Legendaries—Koraidon, Miraidon, and Terapagos—adds layers to the strategic tapestry. Each brings a unique toolkit to shape battles, from weather control to terrain domination.
Conversely, classic rain-setter Kyogre has not been overlooked, with seasoned players like Aaron Zheng seeing past the obvious counters, recognizing the potential in well-constructed teams.
Legendary counters also shine in the conversation, with mention of utility moves like Wide Guard from Pokémon such as Mienshao and Iron Valiant. Jeudy Azzarelli encapsulates the sentiment claiming, “Every Legendary has their own signature ‘blow up the board’ move, so Pokémon like Mienshao and Iron Valiant will see use.”
From a broader perspective, Wolfe Glick projects a diverse meta, with varied uses of restricted Legendaries depending on strategic creativity. “It will probably be a format where a lot of different restricted Legendaries are viable,” anticipates Glick.
The pros provide not only predictions but advice for those traversing the new competitive scape. “Regulation G is a game-changer. It’s about preparing for a variety of opponents,” says Jeudy Azzarelli. Substantiating this view, Wolfe Glick weighs the importance of team synergy and dynamic strategies. Aaron “Cybertron” Zheng adds, “The meta is in constant change […] Trainers need to be adaptable.”
With Regulation G from May 1 to August 31 and landmark events like the NA and World Championships converging, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet’s meta is set not just to evolve, but to revolutionize. Players, take note and adapt swiftly. The chessboard is expanding, and with it, the game becomes wilder and more wondrous.
