How does open-world work in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet?

Pokémon Scarlet and Violet are action role-playing adventures created for the Nintendo Switch console. Violet and Scarlet are the newest generation of Pokémon and introduce many new creatures to encounter and befriend. But as mechanics and features are added or changed, this may leave you wondering if Pokémon Scarlet and Violet are open-world.

The answer is yes—Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet are open-world games. Of course, the Pokémon series has seen its share of open-world features, both in Pokémon Sword and Shield's Wild Area and in Pokémon Legends: Arceus. But the Pokémon Scarlet and Violet are considerably larger, so how does that newfound surrounding in the open-world work?

Related: Who are the legendaries in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet?

How does Paldea open-world work in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet

First and foremost, prepare for an open-world experience, as Pokémon Scarlet and Violet has an open world with mountains, plains, towns, and cities. They're all part of the Paldea region filled with new Pokémon for you to hang out with. This region is inspired by Spain, where you'll move freely on the map, on foot, riding Koraidon and Miraidon (like a bike!), and even fly around!

Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Multiplayer

In this world, you'll be free to explore this rich world in a multiplayer co-op designed for up to four players. Of course, trading and battling Pokémon is still an essential part of the game, but this way, you'll have more than enough help from your friends. This opens many options for exploring the Paldea region, knowing you're not alone in this Pokémon world.

School in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet

In Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, you'll do what you like the most—go to school! Don't worry; there is no algebra here, but there are plenty of treasure hunts and hanging out with Pokémon. This school system is part of the curriculum—exploring the world and flying around!

Three main Stories await you in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet

Where is Pokemon, there are Gym battles! Here you'll have to prove your skills to become the Champion of the Pokémon League. There are eight Pokémon Gyms where you'll fight to the top ranking. How you will achieve the highest ranking is up to you, as the process is not linear. There are two other stories where you'll meet essential characters like professors Sada and Turo.

Are Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet linear?

The open-world aspect of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet means that they are not linear. Instead, they are more like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and allow the player to freely roam the world, going where they please when they want, and even catching Pokémon that are their actual size. How this will affect the Pokémon formula remains to be seen.

Is the open world in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet like the Wild Area?

Pokémon Scarlet and Violet take on an actual open-world experience for the first time in Pokémon. This means that the open-world aspects are not limited to a Wild Area but rather the entire game, potentially opening this generation of games to a non-linear play style.

For more information on Pokémon, check out When does Pokémon Scarlet and Violet come out and How do you use XL Candy in Pokémon Go on Pro Game Guides.