Highlights
Two new DLCs, The Teal Mask and The Indigo Disk, will soon be released for Pokemon Scarlet and Violet. The Teal Mask DLC carries the potential of introducing a remarkable creature that could revolutionize competitive battles.
The DLC expansions will bring forth new Pokémon such as Raging Bolt and Iron Crown. Limited information is currently accessible regarding their battle skills.
In the recently unveiled Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, there exists a fresh addition called Dipplin. It possesses a unique move called Syrup Bomb, which reduces the target's Speed for a span of three turns. Additionally, it possesses an ability named Supersweet Syrup, which decreases the opponent's evasion. These traits have the potential to greatly influence the competitive landscape.
Pokemon Scarlet and Violet players can look forward to two exciting DLCs in the near future. The Teal Mask DLC is set to release on September 13, while The Indigo Disk is scheduled for later this winter. These expansions aim to bring fresh content to the game, offering players new critters or valuable items to obtain in a meaningful endgame grind. The latest Pokemon Presents presentation provided some insights into the upcoming DLCs, revealing that The Teal Mask will introduce a critter with the potential to significantly impact the competitive battles meta.
Although there is a high possibility that the new creatures introduced with the DLC expansions will be impressive, similar to the ones found in Pokemon Sword and Shield's Island of Armor and Crown Tundra, little information is currently available about most of them. The trailer teased the existence of the intriguing Paradox Pokemon, Raging Bolt and Iron Crown, but their battle capabilities remain a mystery. On the other hand, the kit for Archaludon, the new evolution of Duraludon in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, has already been revealed.
Why Dipplin Could Reshape Pokemon Scarlet and Violet's Competitive Meta
The Teal Mask DLC for Gen 9 brings a surprise evolution for Applin, a creature from Pokemon Sword and Shield. This new evolution, called Dipplin, may not be as popular as other Pokemon, but its Grass/Dragon type makes it one of the strongest additions to Gen 9. While Pokemon Scarlet and Violet introduced powerful monsters like Flutter Mane and Iron Hands, Dipplin stands out with its unique move and Ability.
According to the official website for Gen 9, Dipplin's signature move, Syrup Bomb, has a powerful effect. It decreases the Speed of its target for three consecutive turns, making it a valuable tool for controlling the pace of battles. Opponents targeted by Syrup Bomb will have to make tough choices, either staying in and sacrificing their Speed or switching out to avoid the stat drop.
Additionally, Dipplin's Supersweet Syrup Ability poses a significant threat in battles. When Dipplin enters the field, it automatically reduces the opponent's evasion. This effect applies to both single and double battles in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, affecting both opposing Pokemon. This reduction in evasion can greatly benefit strategically crafted teams, particularly when using moves that have a guaranteed hit or a high chance of hitting the target.
Moreover, there are several powerful moves that have a low base accuracy to balance their potential for inflicting substantial damage or instantly knocking out a Pokemon, such as Fissure and Sheer Cold. A perfect companion for Dipplin could be Groudon, a Pokemon well-versed in competitive battles. Groudon can take advantage of Dipplin's Ability with moves like Precipice Blades and Stone Edge, which typically have lower accuracy. Considering Dipplin's solid base stats and potential for learning useful support moves, it has the capability to greatly influence the competitive meta of Pokemon Scarlet and Violet.
Pokemon Scarlet and Violet are available now for the Nintendo Switch.