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For a new Nintendo Switch buyer, the main choice is between Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet: Scarlet features Koraidon, while Violet features Miraidon. Neither is established as the better-value edition for everyone. Pick the version you prefer, and factor in what your friends own if you plan to trade or play together. Add DLC only if you want its extra content, and do not assume a bundle costs less than buying items separately.
Which Pokémon game should you buy?
Scarlet or Violet: choose the version you prefer
Scarlet and Violet are separate editions of the Paldea adventure. Nintendo associates Koraidon with Scarlet and Miraidon with Violet. Its official Scarlet listing describes exploring a wide-open world and travelling by riding a form-shifting Legendary Pokémon. Compare the edition details and choose the one that appeals to you; the available evidence does not establish a universal gameplay or value winner.
If trading or playing with friends matters, ask which edition they have before buying. Check the current game details for the specific play mode you plan to use rather than assuming every activity works the same way.
Consider Legends: Arceus for a different emphasis
Pokémon Legends: Arceus is a distinct option if you are more interested in exploration and survey missions than in choosing between the paired Paldea editions. Nintendo describes it as blending action and exploration with Pokémon RPG roots, with its story set in Hisui. See the official Legends: Arceus listing for the game description.
#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.
How to compare price and purchase formats
Nintendo lists Scarlet and Violet separately, as a double pack, and in game-plus-DLC bundles. These are U.S. store listings, not a price comparison for every region, and listed prices can change. Compare the live price and exact contents in your region before checkout; a bundle is not automatically a saving.
For a physical copy, search for the exact game and platform, such as “Pokémon Scarlet Nintendo Switch game.” Violet is the parallel alternative. Check the retailer’s current listing for format, stock, and included items.
Rank #2
- 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
Are the Pokémon add-ons worth buying?
Scarlet and Violet: The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero
Nintendo lists The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero as the add-on for Scarlet and Violet. Its official listing describes the add-on and a New Uniform Set bonus. That bonus alone does not establish that the DLC is worthwhile for every player. Review the content and current price for the edition you own, and buy it if the added game content is what you want.
Sword and Shield: match the Expansion Pass to the game
The Sword and Shield Expansion Passes are version-specific. Nintendo’s purchase instructions state that each pass works only with the base game of the same name: buy the Sword pass for Pokémon Sword, or the Shield pass for Pokémon Shield. Check the exact product before purchasing.
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Rank #3
- The Pokémon TCG: Scarlet & Violet—Prismatic Evolutions Booster Bundle contains six booster packs from Pokémon TCG: Scarlet & Violet—Prismatic Evolutions.
- A great way to get multiple booster packs without getting having to buy packs individually or having to get a full booster box.
- A great gift for any Pokemon collector or player.
Do you need a Pokémon-specific accessory?
No universal Pokémon accessory is established as necessary. Nintendo’s store page gives a general warning that software compatibility and play experience may differ on Switch Lite, and that additional accessories may be required and sold separately. It does not identify a controller, case, or other Pokémon-specific accessory that every buyer needs. Check the requirements for your console and intended setup before purchasing extra hardware.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Can Pokémon HOME connect these games?
Pokémon HOME can help manage Pokémon across compatible games. Nintendo Support lists Scarlet, Violet, Sword, Shield, Legends: Arceus, Brilliant Diamond, and Shining Pearl among the supported Switch games. Its HOME FAQ says a Nintendo Switch Online membership is not required to use HOME.
Rank #4
- Single Pokemon Booster Pack
Compatibility does not mean every Pokémon can move freely between every game. Check HOME’s current compatibility list and transfer restrictions before buying a game primarily to move Pokémon into or out of it; those rules can change.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- The Pokémon TCG: Scarlet & Violet—Destined Rivals Elite Trainer Box includes 9 Pokémon TCG: Scarlet & Violet—Destined Rivals booster packs, 1 full-art foil promo card featuring Team Rocket’s Wobbuffet, and 45 Pokémon TCG Energy cards.
- This also comes with 65 card sleeves, A player’s guide to the Scarlet & Violet—Destined Rivals expansion, and a collector’s box to hold everything, with 4 dividers to keep it organized
- You will also get 6 damage-counter dice, 1 competition-legal coin-flip die, and 2 plastic condition markers.
- You will also find a code card for Pokémon Trading Card Game Live.
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.
