Highlights
Pokemon Scarlet and Violet rumors suggest that Tera Forms will be added in The Indigo Disk DLC, along with the 19th Tera type.
The Tera Forms function in a manner reminiscent of the Gen 8 games' handling of the Dynamax phenomenon.
There may be parallels between Terastallization and Gigantamaxing, with certain Pokemon potentially undergoing transformations in both appearance and abilities upon being Terastallized.
Pokemon Scarlet and Violet have been subject to numerous rumors and leaks since they were announced, including fan-made evolutions for the starters and even the leaked Pokedex before the games were released. The same pattern occurred with The Teal Mask DLC, and now that it's been released, there are many alleged leaks circulating about what The Indigo Disk will bring in terms of new Pokemon, trainer battles, story, and unique forms. Although Tera Forms and the 19th Tera type haven't been introduced in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet yet, multiple leaks suggest that they will be added in The Indigo Disk.
With Terapagos in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet functioning as the actual "indigo disk" and the latest expansion trailer revealing its two different forms, the inclusion of Tera Forms seems highly likely, even supported by official sources. The exact mechanics of these forms remain uncertain, but leaks from reputable Pokemon insider Riddler Khu suggest that this feature, coming in the second DLC for Generation 9, may be similar to how the Dynamax phenomenon was handled in Generation 8 games. If this proves to be true, which seems highly probable given Khu's track record, there are a few important distinctions to consider.
How Pokemon Scarlet and Violet's Leaked Tera Forms Relate to Gen 8's Gimmick
Khu recently posted a question to fans, asking whether they preferred the term "Terastallized state" or "Terastal Form." According to Khu, these terms would serve as counterparts to certain features in the upcoming Gen 8 games, specifically Dynamax, Gigantamax, and Eternamax. In Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, Dynamax would be the equivalent of Terastallization in Gen 9. This means that every Pokemon would have the ability to Dynamax, and the effects would vary based on factors like Dynamax Level and Tera type.
Gigantamax, however, presents a different phenomenon in Pokemon Sword and Shield. It allows a limited number of Pokemon to assume a special Dynamax form, altering their appearance and granting them new and unique moves in battles. While nothing similar currently exists in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, if Khu's post accurately predicts what will be introduced in The Indigo Disk, there could be similarities between Gigantamaxing and Terastallization for certain Pokemon. For example, some Pokemon might undergo appearance changes and gain access to different moves when Terastallized within a specific type, or whenever Terastallization is active, depending on Game Freak's approach.
This option is intriguing because it allows certain Pokemon to acquire something new when they undergo Terastallization. It is likely that this list will include Legendaries such as Pokemon Scarlet and Violet's Koraidon and Miraidon, as well as Ogerpon and Terapagos. However, it appears that there will also be a Gen 9 equivalent to Eternamax. Initially, there was only one Eternamax form in Gen 8, which was exclusive to Eternatus and only seen during battles against this Pokemon. In Gen 9, Khu suggests that Gigantamax and Eternamax forms could be stackable through Terastallization, granting some Pokemon an appearance resembling a "third stage" transformation that surpasses the altered Tera Form. This is where the image of Terapagos from the Scarlet Book and Violet Book may come into play, representing an Eternamax-like form for this turtle-like Pokemon. Overall, this concept enhances the gameplay experience by breathing new life into existing species with one or even two additional transformations, potentially accompanied by new abilities.
Pokemon Scarlet and Violet are available now for the Nintendo Switch.