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Pokemon Scarlet & Violet: What Is Terastal – New Crystal Mechanic Explained

The latest trailer for Pokemon Scarlet and Violet has given us a glimpse of a new Terastal mechanic to look forward to, but what is it, and how does it work?

Pokemon Scarlet & Violet just got a brand-new trailer, and we couldn’t be more excited about Generation 9. Not only does the upcoming title look like a return to form after mixed reviews for Sword and Shield, but it’s also clearly taken inspiration from Legends: Arceus.

Game Freak’s upcoming release will be open-world, with 4 player online co-op confirmed for Scarlet & Violet already.

Now, we’re getting a brand-new trailer as we get ever closer to the long-awaited Pokemon Scarlet & Violet release date!

Pokemon Scarlet and Violet: What is Terastal / Terastallize Mechanic

Terastal is a new mechanic for Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, that can see Pokemon turn into crystal-like Pokemon with Tera types.

When catching a Pokemon, players can choose to Terastallize them, turning them into beautiful gem-like versions.

Pokemon Scarlet & Violet What Is Terastal - New Crystal Mechanic Explained

This comes from the latest Pokemon Presents, which featured many updates on numerous Pokemon games but spotlights the upcoming Pokemon Scarlet and Violet.

How to Terastallize Pokemon

Terastallizing is as simple as pressing the R button when you’re in a battle with another Pokemon. However, players will need the mysterious Tera Orb.

Only certain Trainers in the Paldea region can get a Tera Orb for their adventures. Once a Tera Orb is charged, players can Terastallize a Pokemon. However, it will lose its charge afterward.

In the bottom right of the screen, near where the moves for your Pokemon are, will be colored gems swirling with the word Terastallize over them. When this option is available, hit the R button and turn the Pokemon into a Terastal.

Pokemon Scarlet and Violet What is Terastal Terastallize Mechanic

How Do You Recharge the Tera Orb?

The Tera Orb can be recharged by visiting a Pokemon Center, or by interacting with crystals overflowing with Terastal energy.

Players will be able to find crystals with Terastal energy in plenty of locations around the Paldea region. Fortunately, you’ll have a great way to get around thanks to the Legendary Pokemon!

Which Pokemon Can Be Terastallized?

As far as we currently know, all of them. The latest Pokemon Scarlet and Violet trailer says that any Pokemon can become a Tera Type.

In fact, the voiceover narration specifically says that “all Pokemon in the Paldea region are able to Terastallize.”

Pokemon Scarlet & Violet Trailer Shows Terastallize Mechanic

What Does Terastallizing Do?

Turning Pokemon into Terastal versions give them a boost in their type and make their moves stronger. But it can also change their type entirely too.

Many times, a Pokemon will likely stay the same type. However, there are a few occasions where Pokemon could change into a different Tera Type.

There are a total of 18 types, meaning there are numerous combinations of Pokemon and Tera Types!

Pokemon Scarlet and Violet Tera Type

It remains to be seen how the Terastal mechanic will work in more detail. But since we’re a few months from launch, we’re sure we’ll hear more soon.

Plus, check out this new leak that reveals Pokemon Scarlet & Violet DLC, total Pokemon, and more!

Which of the new currently-revealed Gen 9 Pokemon is your favorite? Your answer may change when you learn that we already know about these 72 leaked Pokemon in Scarlet & Violet!

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