Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet DLC Review: Part 1: The Teal Mask
Pokémon fans, rejoice! The first part of the DLC for Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet is coming this fall, and it promises to be an exciting adventure in a new region with new Pokémon and new challenges. Here’s everything you need to know about Part 1: The Teal Mask.
What is Part 1: The Teal Mask?
Part 1: The Teal Mask is the first of two expansions in The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero, the DLC for Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet. It will be released in the fall of 2023 and take you to the land of Kitakami, a region inspired by Japan’s Tohoku region. You will join an outdoor study opportunity held jointly between your academy and another school, and you will explore the culture, history, and nature of Kitakami.
What are the features of Part 1: The Teal Mask?
Part 1: The Teal Mask will introduce many new features to enhance your gameplay experience, such as:
New Pokémon: You will encounter over 100 new and returning Pokémon in Kitakami, including some regional forms and evolutions. Some are based on Japanese folklore and mythology, such as the legendary Pokémon Kitsunari, a Fire/Ghost type that can transform into different forms, and Ryujin, a Water/Dragon type that rules over the seas. You will also meet Paradox Pokémon, mysterious creatures altered by a strange phenomenon called the Paradox Zone.
New Areas: You will explore various locations in Kitakami, such as the Sakura Village, where you will witness the annual cherry blossom festival, the Zen Garden, where you will learn about meditation and harmony, the Shinto Shrine, where you will encounter sacred Pokémon and rituals, the Bamboo Forest, where you will find hidden secrets and puzzles, and the Snowy Mountain, where you will brave the cold and face powerful opponents.
New Characters: You will interact with many new characters in Kitakami, such as your classmates from the other school, who have different personalities and preferences. You will also meet Professor Sakura, a young and cheerful Pokémon researcher who specializes in Paradox Pokémon, Master Kuro, a wise and mysterious martial arts teacher who will train you in new techniques, Detective Hana, a clever and curious investigator who will help you solve mysteries and crimes, and The Teal Mask, a mysterious vigilante who fights against evil forces in Kitakami.
New Gameplay Elements: You will experience new gameplay elements in Part 1: The Teal Mask, such as:
– Treasure Hunt: You can participate in a Treasure Hunt, a particular activity that involves finding clues and solving riddles to discover hidden treasures in Kitakami. You will need to use your wits and skills to find the clues, which can be hidden anywhere, such as in books, paintings, statues, or Pokémon. You will also need to use your Pokédex to scan QR codes that can reveal more information or hints. The treasures can be anything from rare items, TM’s, or even new Pokémon.
– Paradox Zone: You can enter the Paradox Zone, a mysterious dimension that alters reality and time. In the Paradox Zone, you will encounter Paradox Pokémon, different from their regular counterparts in appearance, type, ability, or moves. You will also face various challenges and puzzles that require you to use your logic and creativity. The Paradox Zone can be accessed through unique portals that appear randomly in Kitakami.
– Martial Arts: You will be able to learn Martial Arts, a new feature that allows you to enhance your physical abilities and combat skills. You can train with Master Kuro in his dojo, where he will teach you different Martial Arts styles, such as Karate, Judo, Aikido, or kando. Each style has benefits and drawbacks, such as increasing speed, defense, attack, or accuracy. You can also use Martial Arts in battles against other trainers or wild Pokémon.
How to get Part 1: The Teal Mask?
Part 1: The Teal Mask is part of The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero DLC for Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet. You can purchase the DLC for $34.99 on the Nintendo eShop starting February 27, 2023. If you buy the DLC before September 30, 2023, you will also receive a bonus item: the New Uniform Set, which consists of new apparel items you can use immediately in your game.
To start the main story of Part 1: The Teal Mask, you must have begun your Treasure Hunt in Pokémon Scarlet or Pokémon Violet. The Treasure Hunt starts after about three hours of gameplay, though individual gameplay time may vary. Once you have reached that point, you will receive a notification that invites you to join the outdoor study opportunity in Kitakami. You can then travel to Kitakami by taking a plane from the Paldea Airport.
Why should you play Part 1: The Teal Mask?
Part 1: The Teal Mask is an excellent addition to your Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet adventure, as it offers you a lot of new content and fun. You can explore a new region with a rich culture and history, meet new Pokémon and characters, and experience new gameplay elements that will challenge your skills and creativity. You will also be able to enjoy a captivating story that will keep you hooked until the end. Part 1: The Teal Mask is a must-have for any Pokémon fan who wants to extend their journey and discover more secrets and surprises in the world of Pokémon.
To learn more about Part 1: The Teal Mask, visit the official website.