The Teal Mask, the first part of the upcoming Pokemon Scarlet and Violet DLC, draws inspiration from both past Pokemon games and Japanese folk festivals and lore. However, the new Pokemon introduced in this DLC go beyond surface-level inspirations. While the enigmatic Ogerpon takes the spotlight as the mascot, there is also a trio of Pokemon known as The Loyal Three, who have yet to be fully unveiled. This adds an element of excitement to the upcoming Pokemon Scarlet and Violet adventure this fall.
The revered trio, consisting of Okidogi, Munkidori, and Fezandipiti, will make appearances throughout the Pokemon DLC. These peculiarly named Pokemon are more than just a bipedal dog, monkey, and bird. According to the Pokemon website, The Loyal Three once defended Kitakami from an ogre, believed to be Ogerpon or something entirely different. In gratitude, stone statues of The Loyal Three now adorn Kitakami. The choice to depict them as a dog, monkey, and pheasant was not arbitrary, as their designs are rooted in Japanese folklore.
What Okidogi, Munkidori, and Fezandipiti Are Capable Of
The Loyal Three, also known as the heroes of Kitakami, draw their inspiration from the Japanese folk myth of Momotaro. These unique Pokemon are based on the dog (Okidogi), the monkey (Munkidori), and the pheasant (Fezandipiti) that accompanied the famous boy hero. It is uncertain whether Ogerpon represents the Oni that Momotaro battled or if it is a depiction of Momotaro himself. However, what is clear is that Okidogi, Munkidori, and Fezandipiti each sport a distinct purple chain on various parts of their bodies. Okidogi's chain is worn around its neck like a scarf or leash, Munkidori adorns its head with the chain resembling a headband or crown, and Fezandipiti drapes its chain across its chest in a shawl-like pattern. Yet, this chain serves a greater purpose than mere decoration.
The Loyal Three possess a unique Ability called Toxic Chain. This newfound Ability has the potential to severely poison the target whenever any member of The Loyal Three lands a damaging move on an opposing Pokemon, even if there is no direct physical contact. Unlike the standard poison status, being badly poisoned causes a Pokemon to continually suffer increased damage over time until the condition is either remedied or the Pokemon succumbs to it. This suggests that despite their seemingly relaxed attitudes, The Loyal Three have the potential to be formidable Poison-type Pokemon that would make valuable additions to any team in the Pokemon Scarlet and Violet games.
Pokemon trainers will have to exercise patience as they eagerly await the unveiling of the secrets hidden within Kitakami. While the exact release date of The Teal Mask remains shrouded in mystery, players of Pokemon Scarlet and Violet can rest assured that they will have an abundance of exciting sights and new discoveries to make when they venture into Kitakami this autumn.
Pokemon Scarlet and Violet are available now for Nintendo Switch.