Pokémon Scarlet & Violet: The Indigo Disk is an impressive expansion that builds on the story introduced in The Teal Mask. Compared to its predecessor, this expansion is more expansive, featuring a larger array of new Pokémon to capture and numerous additional missions that enhance the adventure. For those who found the main game straightforward, this expansion presents a significant challenge, demanding innovative strategies and approaches.
The expansion pass for Pokémon Scarlet and Violet introduces a wealth of new exploration opportunities, including a new playable region named Kitakami. The Indigo Disk leads players back to Area Zero, a crucial location from the base game’s conclusion. This expansion’s focus on story marks a notable shift from previous entries. The central theme revolves around the protagonist participating in an exchange program with Blueberry Academy. Familiar characters such as Carmine and Kieran make a comeback. Additionally, players will encounter new Elite Four challenges and discover a variety of new creatures in an intriguing underwater environment.
Pokémon games have traditionally focused less on story and more on the enjoyment of training teams, capturing Pokémon, and overcoming various in-game challenges. The Indigo Disk raises the difficulty level significantly, providing a fresh challenge for players. This expansion also offers a touch of nostalgia for fans of Pokémon Black and White, as it is set in the Unova region. Although the campaign is not particularly lengthy, the main attraction is the opportunity to catch new Pokémon. Typically, players can complete the expansion in 5 to 10 hours.
A notable addition in The Indigo Disk is the new location, Terrarium, which is divided into four unique biomes. Filled with quests, this area allows players to earn Blueberry Points. These points simplify game mechanics, but acquiring them is challenging. The pursuit of more Blueberry Points is demanding, especially since some Pokémon are exclusive to this system.
The expansion introduces exciting features like the ability to fly with Pokémon. However, this aspect also highlights the Nintendo Switch’s limitations, as flying exposes more flaws in the game’s world design when viewed from above.The developers have offered plenty of fun options to explore this world. In addition to flying, we can also use the Synchro Machine to explore the world from the perspective of any of our Pokemon. Combined with the Blueberry Quests, this opens plenty of new possibilities. However, it is all fun in the beginning before the repetitive nature of these quests comes into play. I wouldn’t have minded this if it was not essential to get Blueberry Points as they help in a lot of matters ranging from customizing our club, crafting to improving the ability for catching Pokemon.
Even with a well-leveled and robust party, players may find it challenging to defeat the new Elite Four in The Indigo Disk. This difficulty may encourage players to venture back into the world to capture newer Pokémon and assemble a more formidable team. Among these new additions are several Legendary Pokémon, which can be particularly useful in battles against the Elite Four.
Considering the time elapsed since the game’s release on the Nintendo Switch, one might expect the developers to have addressed performance issues. Unfortunately, this is not the case. The game still suffers from sluggish performance, which in some instances might have worsened. Issues like objects popping up close to the character disrupt the immersive experience of exploring the game world. Performance inconsistencies are evident both on the ground and in the air, with some areas exhibiting notably poor performance while others run smoothly.
If you’ve been a fan of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, this expansion pass offers more of what you’ve enjoyed, complete with its imperfections. While the performance issues remain a significant concern, the expansion introduces notable gameplay enhancements, new challenges, and quests that represent a considerable improvement over the original game. For those who can overlook the technical shortcomings, the expansion provides ample opportunities for enjoyment and fun.