10 Biggest Differences Between Pokemon Scarlet and Violet

Pokemon has always been known for having slight differences in the main game versions it releases. Starting with Pokemon Red and Pokemon Blue, version-exclusive Pokemon became a familiar part of the franchise. Pokemon Scarlet and Violet take this to a whole new level, with numerous major differences between the versions. Here are the 10 biggest differences between Pokemon Scarlet and Pokemon Violet.

The 10 Biggest Differences Between Pokemon Scarlet and Pokemon Violet

1. When the Games Take Place

The settings of Scarlet and Violet are quite different. While they both take place in Paldea, when they take place is much different. Pokemon Scarlet takes place in the past, with more Neolithic influences, while Pokemon Violet takes place in the future, with sleek metal designs and sci-fi vibes.

2. Different Professors

Depending on the version you choose, you’ll end up with either Professor Sada or Professor Turo. Professor Sada will help you on your journey in Pokemon Scarlet, and she wears a leather and fur dress with a bone or claw necklace. Professor Turo wears a skintight body suit under his lab coat and will help you through your adventures in Pokemon Violet.

3. Different Academies

Taking place in different times, it makes sense that the Academy you attend is a little different, too. While Clavell is present at both institutions, you’ll be attending Naranja Academy in Scarlet and Uva Academy in Violet.

4. Different School Colors and Uniforms

With different academies comes different school colors. Naranja boasts a burnt orange color, while Uva sticks with its game’s namesake, sporting violet hues. Clavell’s attire will reflect these colors, as well as those of your starting outfit. Team Star, your main foes throughout the game, also have their attire colored after the Academy.

5. Version Exclusive Legendary Pokemon

Seen on the cover art for the games are the legendaries Koraidon and Miraidon. Koraidon, who’s design is reminiscent of a feathered dinosaur, is found in Scarlet. Miraidon, with its pixelated eyes and metallic coloring, is found in Violet. Both act as mounts and help you get around Paldea faster, though the way they move is as different as their designs. Koraidon will propel you along the ground with its powerful back legs, while Miraidon is more like a motorbike.

6. Pokemon Scarlet Exclusive Pokemon

Along with the different Legendary Pokemon are the other version-exclusive Pokemon. You’ll only be able to find the following Pokemon in Pokemon Scarlet.

• Armarouge
• Larvitar
• Pupitar
• Tyranitar
• Skrelp
• Dragalge
• Stunky
• Skuntank
• Deino
• Zweilous
• Hydreigon
• Drifloon
• Drifblim
• Stonjourner
• Oranguru
• Blaze Breed Tauros
• Gligar
• Gliscor

7. Pokemon Violet Exclusive Pokemon

These Pokemon can only be caught in the Violet version of the game.

• Ceruledge
• Bagon
• Shelgon
• Salamence
• Dreepy
• Drakloak
• Dragapult
• Misdreavus
• Mismagius
• Gupin
• Swalot
• Passimian
• Eiscue
• Clauncher
• Clawitzer
• Aqua Breed Tauros
• Aipom
• Ambipom

8. Scarlet Book and Violet Book

Corresponding to the game version, there are different books that document an adventure taken far in the past, even for Pokemon Scarlet. Each book has illustrations of a different Paradox Pokemon found only in that game.

9. Pokemon Scarlet Paradox Pokemon

The Paradox Pokemon found in Area Zero during the end game for Pokemon Scarlet are all related to the past.

• Brute Bonnet
• Great Tusk
• Flutter Mane
• Roaring Moon
• Sandy Shocks
• Scream Tail
• Slither Wing
• Walking Wake

10. Pokemon Violet Paradox Pokemon

Opposite the Paradox Pokemon found in Scarlet, those found in Violet are all futuristic Pokemon. They feature robot-like designs and metallic sheens.

• Iron Bundle
• Iron Hands
• Iron Treads
• Iron Jugulis
• Iron Leaves
• Iron Moth
• Iron Thorns
• Iron Valiant

Those are the 10 biggest differences between Pokemon Scarlet and Pokemon Violet. If you’re looking to purchase one version over the other, the Exclusive and Paradox Pokemon are the most impactful differences gameplay-wise. If it were me, I’d pick Violet, given my favorite color is purple, and I love Mismagius. For more on Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, check out our guides hub, including Tera Battle tips.