In Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, Terastallization is the new battle gimmick that allows Pokemon to change their type. Players have the chance to catch powerful Terastal Pokemon in Tera Raids, with the strongest appearing in the 7-Star Raids. These Raids also let players catch Pokemon that can't be found in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet at present.
Looking at the past Pokemon that have appeared in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet's 7-Star Raids may give some clues regarding what creatures will make an appearance next. It appears that starters from prior generations are taking the spotlight. This makes it likely that more starters are on the way, though Game Freak could always throw in a curveball.
Scarlet and Violet's 7-Star Raid Pattern So Far
Tera Raid battles are a new battle style introduced in Scarlet and Violet. Four trainers go up against a very powerful Terastallized Pokemon, and if they can overpower it, they gain the chance to catch it. There are Tera Raid battles of different levels, with the hardest being the 7-Star Tera Raids. It is worth attempting them, as past events have given players the chance to catch Pokemon that aren't currently available in Paldea's wilderness.
So far, there have been two 7-Star Raid events. The first featured Charizard the Unrivaled which Terastallizes into a Dragon-type beast. It was obvious fan bait from Game Freak, but with Charizard being such a beloved Pokemon, it is hard to complain. The second event featured Cinderace the Unrivaled, which Terastallizes into a Fighting-type bunny. At first glance, it appears that Game Freak is hitting all the Fire-type starters. However, the next 7-Star Raid will feature Greninja which is a Water/Dark Pokemon, so that theory is thrown out the window. The pattern does seem to revolve around the final evolutions of starter Pokemon, and all the Pokemon thus far have stuck to this trend.
What Could the Next 7-Star Raid Pokemon Be?
There has been a starter from generations one, six, and eight. The starters have also been creatures that are quite beloved within the Pokemon fandom. It would be reasonable to speculate that the next 7-Star Raid following Greninja's will be another popular starter from one of the generations that haven't been touched yet. Before Greninja's reveal, it was speculated that Typhlosion might be the next 7-Star Raid Pokemon. This is motivated by the fact that Cyndaquil is a very popular Generation 2 starter which got further attention when it was chosen to be a starter in Pokemon Legends: Arceus. Though Greninja ended up being the third 7-Star Raid boss, it is still possible that Typhlosion could be scheduled for future Raids.
On the other hand, it is also worth considering that there have been two Fire-types, and a Water-type is lined up. Game Freak may choose a Grass-type starter for the next 7-Star Raid to ensure that fans who love those aren't left out in the cold. In this case, Meganium may show up, as it is a popular Grass-type starter, in part thanks to Chikorita traveling with Ash in the anime series. Sceptile could also be one of the picks. The generation three Grass-type starter has been quite popular, and it even received a Mega Evolution in X and Y.
Gamers who have missed past 7-Star Raids do not need to worry, though. Game Freak has confirmed that Scarlet and Violet will connect with Pokemon Home in Spring 2023. This will allow players to transfer many of their favorite critters from past generations to Paldea.
Pokemon Scarlet and Violet are available on Nintendo Switch.
