Summary
Pokemon Scarlet and Violethas encountered its share of issues, enduring a turbulent launch and receiving mixed reviews for its performance. While the title undoubtedly had its shining elements,Scarlet and Violetsuffered quite a bit of backlash for its lackluster graphics and performance, which left much to be desired thanks to the high standards of modern-day gaming. However, DLCs provide base games with recourse, and the upcoming Hidden Treasure of Area Zero multi-part DLC could be the next step to atonement forPokemon Scarlet and Violet’s PS1-esque graphics.
Graphical dissatisfaction is hardly a novel phenomenon inPokemongames, as fans of the legendary anime have complained of recurring issues as far back asPokemon X and Pokemon Yin 2013. In a bid to garner friendlier reception in its post-launch era,Pokemon Scarlet and Violethas received patches and updates focused on fixing performance issues, but Game Freak hasn’t had an easy time with its efforts, especially with the mind-blowing experiences of fellow Nintendo games likeThe Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom.Scarlet and Violet’s upcoming DLCs seek to address the longstanding issue, and the new trailer showcasing improved graphics is a testament to the developer’s commitment to optimal performance.
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Pokemon Scarlet and Violet’s DLC Trailer Gives Hope for Graphical Improvements
Gaming demands constant improvements in graphical experience, andPokemon Scarlet and Violetfinally seems to be catching up to its peers in this regard. The new trailer rollout for theHidden Treasure of Area Zero DLChas been met with some optimism from the player base, as enhanced graphics are on display, particularly in the Kitakami region. The DLC has a two-part release schedule, with Teal Mask scheduled to hit player consoles in early Fall and Indigo Disk in Winter, and the trailer showcased what Game Freak has in store forScarlet and Violet’s players. Alongside the scheduled debuts of Kieran and Carmine, the graphical detail stood out in the trailer, and the first glimpses tease a far superior experience to the base game.
A common complaint aboutScarlet and Violetat its release was its lack of vibrancy, as its color and texture failed to capture gamer attention. For the upcoming DLC, however, the first noticeable improvement in the trailer is how much sharper the colors are, creating a delightful aesthetic for players to enjoy. The animation and transitions also appear smoother, as evidenced by a scene where leaves are depicted gently swaying in a field. This is a direct contrast to the base game’s initial experience, where animations were either too pronounced or subdued, and there was a lack of graphical balance inPokemon Scarlet and Violet’s first few playthroughs.
There is also work being done with lightning and the replication of the sky, as well as mountain reflection on water surfaces, creating a pleasing contrast between light and shadow. Although these improvements are subtle, their effects will be most impactful in upcoming areas like the Terrarium, an undersea park in theBlueberry Academy. Along with the regular allure of gathering and capturing Pokemon, the Terrarium has a certain fluidity that is noticeable in the graceful aquatic maneuvers and combat enhancements.
TheTeal Mask DLCalso brings refined battle mechanics with smoothened fight scene transitions and animations. Although questions are bound to arise about the scope and scale of the DLC regarding the new additions of regions like Kitakami, it is pretty evident that Game Freak is continuing a steady climb to improvePokemon Scarlet and Violet’s graphics. If the recent trailers are anything to go by, there might be redemption around the corner for the latest entry in the belovedPokemonsaga.
Pokemon ScarletandVioletare available now for Nintendo Switch.
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