Pokemon fans are hyped for Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, which will mark the beginning of the franchise's ninth generation. As usual, there will be a new region to explore, more Pokemon to discover, and a variety of opponents to prove one's self against. Though the game will be a familiar experience for longtime fans, it also promises to introduce plenty of new features and innovations to the typical Pokemon formula. This has been seen, for example, with the fact that the legendary Pokemon - Koraidon and Miraidon - will be available for players to use to traverse Paldea, whether they need to cross air, land, or water.
With Pokemon Scarlet and Violet's release date creeping closer, pre-ordering has become available. However, the bonuses that various outlets are offering have left gamers disappointed, and many have voiced their negative feelings online. It is understandable why fans are so upset, especially when one compares what Western stores are giving out compared to Japanese outlets. However, had Pokemon Scarlet and Violet offered better pre-order bonuses, such as exclusive Pokemon or incredibly rare items, it might have also left players who cannot get pre-orders disgruntled.
The Disappointing Pokemon Scarlet and Violet Pre-Order Bonuses
Pokemon Scarlet and Violet launch in November, though gamers can already place their pre-orders. Typically, pre-orders are meant to increase hype for upcoming games, but in this instance, fans in Western markets have been left feeling upset. For gamers pre-ordering through Amazon, they will receive an in-game Healing Set which includes ten potions, ten antidotes, and three revives. Although these are useful items, they are not particularly rare, and gamers will naturally acquire plenty of potions and antidotes throughout their journey in Paldea. Consequently, many gamers feel like the bonus included is near worthless.
Players who choose to pre-order the Pokemon Scarlet and Violet Double Pack available at GameStop will receive a pin set featuring Koraidon and Miraidon, which are the two legendary Pokemon that appear on the cover of Scarlet and Violet. Gamers have voiced their dissatisfaction with the bonuses on Twitter, Reddit, and other social media platforms, with some urging fans to not pre-order. There were plenty of opportunities for better pre-orders to be included, but that comes with its own downsides.
The Dangers of Having Pre-Order Bonuses That Are Too Good
The most obvious option would be for The Pokemon Company, or retailers, to include additional pre-order bonuses, which could go a long way to making gamers happy. Giving pre-ordering gamers exclusive Pokemon, especially if they are highly sought after, would be an easy way to entice fans, especially those looking to complete their Pokedex. It also would be nothing new for the Pokemon franchise which frequently hosts exclusive events where rare Pokemon are distributed. While this route is tempting, it is one that also has to be trodden carefully, as it can also lead to disgruntled fans if it is mishandled.
If the pre-order bonuses are too good, or they grant players access to very powerful or rare Pokemon, it could also cause gamers to complain that certain Pokemon are being made too exclusive. Consequently, Pokemon Scarlet and Violet are left in a tricky position where they risk offering too little, though if they offer too much, it can also lead to complaints from gamers. However, it seems that the right balance has been found in pre-order bundles that are available in non-Western stores.
There Are Ways To Get Better Pokemon Scarlet and Violet Pre-Order Bonuses
The Pokemon Scarlet and Violet pre-order bonuses being offered by stores in Western markets seem even more disappointing when compared to what gamers in Japan are receiving, as bonuses include physical art books. However, not all hope is lost for Pokemon fans in Western markets. If they pre-order through the official Pokemon Center website, players receive a code for an in-game floral print backpack. Although it does not affect gameplay, it does look quite pretty and fits perfectly into Paldea's Spanish-inspired region.
Under certain conditions, Pokemon Scarlet and Violet players will also receive a special Terastal Pikachu. As a past trailer has revealed, Terastallization is the new gimmick that the upcoming games will feature, and it will have Pokemon taking on a crystal form. When this occurs, Pokemon can even change their Type, and this has caught the attention of Pokemon fans, as it opens up a host of new possibilities when it comes to battles and formulating strategies. The Terastal Pikachu here will have a Flying Tera Type.
Ultimately, it always remains difficult to please all players in a fan base, though it appears that the current pre-order bonuses on offer have annoyed more gamers than necessary. Giving pre-ordering gamers Potions and Antidotes is a tad insulting, though going all-out and offering rare and highly sought-after Pokemon is also a risky move, as it could leave some gamers feeling left out. However, there is a middle-ground that can be found, such as by including a soundtrack or a digital art book, which can entice gamers to pre-order while not unfairly disadvantaging those that do not.
Pokemon Scarlet and Violet are scheduled to release on November 18 for Nintendo Switch.
