How Pokémon Scarlet & Violet Could Learn From Gen 5's Biggest Controversy

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The upcoming Gen 9 Pokémon games, Scarlet and Violet, have many games before them that they can learn from, including Gen 5 and its controversial Regional Pokédex. This feature wasn't popular with every player, but it does have its merits, and Scarlet and Violet could make it work. They're set to release on November 18, so unless there are any unforeseen delays, it should only be a few months before fans find out just what Pokémon they can catch and when.

In Pokémon Black and White, the Regional Pokédex meant that players could only capture Gen 5 Pokémon until it was upgraded to the National Pokédex. This meant that staple Pokémon like Eevee and even the series' mascot Pikachu weren't available until the post-game, after players had defeated Ghetsis. Despite the many new capturable Pokemon these games introduced to the series, players weren't happy about not being able to find their old favorites. Less popular designs like Garbodor or Vanilluxe most certainly didn't help, and neither did Emboar, the series' third Fire/Fighting-Type starter Pokémon in a row. Thankfully, the Regional Pokédex was changed in the sequels, Black 2 and White 2, and Black and White are now looked upon fondly despite their bad first impression.

Related: Everything Pokémon BDSP Got Wrong That Gen 5 Remakes Should Avoid

Scarlet and Violet's full Pokédex is still mostly unknown despite a litany of leaks and rumors, the veracity of which should all be taken with a grain of salt. Most of the new Pokémon that have been officially revealed thus far have become instant favorites, so the thought of those that are still yet to come is an exciting one. If fans fall in love with the region's Pokémon like they have with the likes of Sprigatito and Lechonk,