The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
To tell whether you own Pokémon Scarlet or Pokémon Violet, read the game’s title on the Nintendo Switch HOME Menu or on its physical packaging or game card. If by “version” you mean the numbered software update, check the game’s software information instead: that update number does not identify which edition you own.
Check whether your game is Scarlet or Violet
On the Nintendo Switch HOME Menu
- Go to the Switch HOME Menu and locate the Pokémon game icon.
- Read the displayed title: it will say Pokémon Scarlet or Pokémon Violet.
This is the quickest check for a digital copy and also works for a physical copy when its game card is inserted. The two are separate game editions, available as packaged and download software, as shown on The Pokémon Company’s official product page. Menu layouts can vary by language or interface, so use the title rather than looking for a particular screen position.
On a physical copy
Read the title on the game card label or box. If the card is out and its label is difficult to read, check the packaging or insert. Do not infer the game edition or included DLC from an unclear cartridge revision code.
Check the numbered game update
If you mean the patch installed for the game, use the game’s software information or update display on the Switch. Nintendo’s update instructions for Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet list Ver. 4.0.0 as the latest update on the page, with a release date of June 2, 2025. That number is the software update level shared by the titles; it does not tell you whether your copy is Scarlet or Violet. Update information can change, so consult Nintendo’s page for the latest listing.
#1 Best Overall
- New Pokémon to Discover - Learn new details about Sprigatito, Fuecoco, and Quaxly—the three Pokémon from which you’ll choose your first partner—along with other wonderful new Pokémon, including the Legendary Pokémon Koraidon and Miraidon!
- The World of Pokémon Has Evolved - Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet offer an open-world experience that only the Pokémon series can deliver—one welcoming even to newcomers to the series.
- You can experience a new style of adventure, with a world that you’re free to explore at your leisure and not in an order dictated by the story. You will, of course, journey to hone your skills as a Pokémon Trainer, but many more discoveries and stories await you. Meet a variety of people and Pokémon, and adventure in the world of Pokémon the way you want to.
- A Deeper Experience with Multiplayer* Gameplay - Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet allow multiplayer gameplay with up to four players. Along with series staples, such as trading and battling Pokémon, you will be able to explore the various locations of the region in these games with other players. You can discover new Pokémon and explore unfamiliar areas with your friends and family, opening the door to an adventure more precious and fun than ever!
- Meet the characters - As one of the main characters, you’ll set off on your adventure. Your outfit will vary depending on whether you play Pokémon Scarlet or Pokémon Violet. Who knows what kind of story awaits you? For the first time in the series, one of two different professors will appear in your game depending on the version you choose to play.
The Pokémon Company’s official update announcement gives June 3, 2025 as the release date for Ver. 4.0.0, one day later than Nintendo Support’s date. The announcement also describes visual and frame-rate improvements for Nintendo Switch 2. On Nintendo Switch, Nintendo says the latest game update is needed for online elements.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Do not confuse the game update with the Switch system version
The console’s system software has its own version number, separate from both the game edition and the game update. Nintendo’s system-update instructions place the console version under System Settings → System → System Update. That menu reports the Switch system software, not whether you own Scarlet or Violet.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- If you purchase either the physical or digital double pack, you will receive a 200 Poké Ball bonus via download codes* that can be entered in the Mystery Gift** feature in your game!
- The packaged version of the double pack includes 1 physical Pokémon Scarlet game and 1 physical Pokémon Violet game
- Catch, battle, and train Pokémon in the Paldea Region, a vast land filled with lakes, towering peaks, wastelands, small towns, and sprawling cities
- Choose either Sprigatito, Fuecoco, or Quaxly, to be your first partner Pokémon before setting off on your journey through Paldea
Rank #3
- Revisit the Sinnoh region from the original Pokémon Pearl Version game and set off to try and become the Champion of the Pokémon League
- The Pokémon Shining Pearl game brings new life to this remade classic with added features
- Explore the Grand Underground to dig up items and Pokémon Fossils, build a Secret Base, and more.
- Test your style and rhythm in a Super Contest Show
- A reimagined adventure, now for the Nintendo Switch system
Rank #2
![Pokémon Scarlet/Pokémon Violet Expansion Pass: The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero (Retail Version) Standard - Nintendo Switch [Digital Code]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51n-a8y2QXL._SL160_.jpg)
- Only one code for a Hisuian Zoroark can be used in either the Pokémon Scarlet or Pokémon Violet game. Upon purchase of The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero DLC, an email with your code will be sent to the email address registered to your Nintendo Account. From the in-game menu, go to the Poké Portal, then select Mystery Gift, select Get with Code/Password, and then enter your code.
- The Mystery Gift option can be found within the Poké Portal menu option in the X menu after you unlock the feature in the Pokémon Scarlet or Pokémon Violet game. (This occurs after about 1 to 1.5 hours of gameplay, though individual gameplay time may vary.) An internet connection and a Nintendo Account is required to redeem the item in game. A Nintendo Switch Online membership is not required. Each item can only be redeemed once.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
