One of Pokemon Scarlet and Violet's most well-received characters was Larry, the dual Gym Leader and Elite Four member with a love for the ordinary. Scarlet and Violet's upcoming two-part DLC could stand to reintroduce him through its different environments, providing further characterization to the 'Exceptional Everyman.'
Pokemon Scarlet and Violet sought to incorporate previous generation staples among its new and evolving open-world setting, including three narrative-driven routes that the player could follow at their own pace. The quest to becoming Pokemon League Champion through battling Paldea's eight Gym Leaders was no exception, as the region's cities hosted a wide range of personalities to challenge the player's skills as a trainer. Despite his attempts to be ordinary, Medali's Gym Leader Larry was perhaps the most memorable of the lot, with his distinctive office worker get-up and jaded attitude leaving a lasting impression across the vast travels of Scarlet and Violet's base game.
Pokemon Scarlet and Violet's Larry Could Take on Another Job
Larry became adored among the fanbase for his resigned attitude as a working salaryman; players' first impressions of the character came from his Medali Gym Test, where he fittingly utilized a team full of Normal-type Pokemon. With a briefcase in hand and perpetually tired eyes, Larry became a reflection of what it's like to be overworked in the Pokemon world. He takes on the tasks of both Gym Leader and Elite Four Member under the orders of 'La Primera,' otherwise known as Geeta, the League Champion.
Larry was made available to battle three times through Scarlet and Violet, using Normal-types during his Gym Leader skirmishes while switching to Flying-types during his Elite Four challenge. This decision was explored briefly in the player's final rematch against Larry during Pokemon Scarlet and Violet's post game; upon defeat, Larry remarks about Geeta's orders for him to use Flying-types, noting his understanding that "there's scenery you'll never even notice if you stick to flat, well-trodden paths." While the 'Exceptional Everyman' finds comfort in the uncomplicated nature of normalcy, perhaps a change in environment might do him a bit of good.
Both The Teal Mask and The Indigo Disk maintain a focus on Scarlet and Violet's school theme; the former will take place on a school cultural trip to the Japanese-inspired lands of Kitakami, while the latter will see players acting as exchange students at Blueberry Academy. While it might be a bit cruel to give the character yet another job, the DLC narratives could pave the way for a Larry reappearance as a gag. Perhaps Kitakami's school excursion needs supervisors, and Larry could fit the bill as he helps to keep track of the students and their safety. Alternatively, given the character's talents as a dual Gym Leader and Elite Four Member, he could be the perfect candidate as a visiting lecturer for the Blueberry Academy students, adding yet another task on his to-do list.
Of course, it would also be nice to see the man finally get a break from his duties, given his comments on Geeta's overwhelming demands and his explanation of "having to cut back his overtime hours" during the base game. Perhaps he could make an appearance at The Teal Mask's Kitakami festival, simply having a good time, though it's difficult to imagine the character as anything other than his overworked self. After fans' positive reception of Larry, it's likely that Scarlet and Violet's base game isn't the last players will see of him; hopefully a potential reappearance will keep the character's stress levels to a minimum.
Pokemon Scarlet and Violet are available now for the Nintendo Switch.
