Pokémon Scarlet and Violet – Terastral Pokémon, Explained

Every mainline Pokémon game has its gimmick, and Scarlet and Violet are no different. Known as the Terastral Phenomenon, trainers can make their Pokémon shine like gems and gain a bunch of abilities and even sometimes change their types. Here’s everything you need to know about Terastral Pokémon in Scarlet and Violet.

What are Terastral Pokémon in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet?

Every Pokémon in the Paldea region has the ability to Terastallize. The option is available on the battle menu, similar to Dynamax and Mega Evolution. Terastral Pokémon is what they are called after Terastallizing. Terastral Pokémon also have their appearances changed mid-battle.

Terastal Pokémon can have the following effects:

• Gain a type boost, adding to their same-type attack boosted (STAB) damage: STAB moves are attacks that have the same type as the Pokémon's type. For example, Quick Attack, which is a Normal-type move, would be a STAB move for Eevee.
• Change types according to their Tera type: For example, a Terastral Eevee can turn into a grass or water type if their Tera type is one of those elements. They will gain a boost for STAB moves according to the type they turn intro.

They’re not exactly regional variants, as the Terastral Phenomenon is something unique to the Paldea region, much like how Dynamaxing can only happen in Galar.

Related: What are Tera Types in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet?

You can find Terastral Pokémon more often in Tera Raid battles—which are similar to Max Raid Battles in Sword and Shield.

During a Tera Raid, you’re free to team up with up to three other trainers and defeat powerful Terastral Pokémon. After the Terastral Pokémon has been defeated, you can throw a Pokéball at it for a chance to capture it. It will have the Tera type you have encountered them in.

Aside from the Terastral Phenomenon, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet is also the first mainline title to be fully open-world. Trainers can choose to tackle gyms in any order they want and explore cities and towns in any order.

For more Pokémon Scarlet and Violet news, be sure to check back here at Pro Game Guides.