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**Unlocking the Multiplayer Mysteries of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet**
Multiplayer is one of the standout features in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, yet many players have found it confusing. To clear up the confusion, I conducted extensive testing and have answers to your burning questions about multiplayer. Please note that these tests were conducted in local multiplayer, which likely applies to online multiplayer as well. Let’s dive in!
1. Online Session Setup
To start an online session, you don’t need to connect to the internet initially. Simply press ‘L’ to open the Union Circle and form a group. As the host, you’ll receive a link code to share with others who wish to join your world. Remember, if the host disconnects, the entire session ends, so ensure the host has a stable internet connection. To join an online session, follow the same steps: open the Poké Portal Union Circle and input the host’s code. You’ll then be teleported to a random spot in the game, usually near a Pokémon Center, where you can interact with others in the game.
2. Cross-Version Connectivity
Yes, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet players can connect with each other. This cross-version connectivity allows you to capture version-exclusive Pokémon. For example, when I joined a Pokémon Violet world, I encountered both Larvitar and Bagon, the latter being a Violet exclusive. This suggests that version-exclusive Pokémon in the overworld are tied to the players spawning them. You only need to connect two opposite versions once to access all the Pokémon spawns you need.
3. Free Roam and Proximity
In the host world, you have complete freedom to explore. You can roam wherever you want without needing to stay close to the host. However, you should stay connected to this channel by subscribing for more game-changing tips on your adventure in Paldea. You can be as far from the host as you need, but keep in mind that extreme distances might cause the game to glitch, although you’ll remain in the multiplayer session unless notified otherwise.
4. Shiny Pokémon and Multiplayer
A hot topic on Twitter was whether you can steal someone’s shiny Pokémon in multiplayer. The answer is yes. If a shiny Pokémon spawns, it’s a race to see who interacts with it first. Once engaged in battle, the Pokémon is yours, and others can only watch as you catch it.
5. Group Picnics and Sandwich Boosts
You can join each other’s picnics in the game. The first person to start a picnic becomes the picnic host, and others can join. The host can have all six Pokémon out, while guests can only bring out their first Pokémon. Sandwiches made by the host can boost other players, affecting Pokémon spawns around them. Both hosts and guests can initiate these boosts.
6. Encounter Powers and Stacking
While you can’t stack encounter powers, each player can increase spawns of certain types. For example, if one player boosts electric Pokémon and another boosts fire Pokémon, you’ll see both types spawning around you when in proximity.
7. Story Progression and Multiplayer
Players can progress their own stories while playing together. For instance, a new player can see all available challenges, while an end-game player only sees gym rematches. However, you cannot buy items from an end-game player’s world; you’ll only see items available in your own world.
8. Mass Outbreaks and Version Exclusives
Mass outbreaks are tied to the host’s game, and you can both participate in them. However, for version-exclusive Pokémon like Armarouge and Ceruledge, you’ll need to trade or join a Tera Raid Den to obtain them.
9. Tera Raid Battles
In the host world, only the host can start Tera Raid Battles. You can join these battles from anywhere in the game when prompted. This allows you to gain experience and items from higher-level raids.
10. Pokémon Interactions and Trading
When you engage a Pokémon in battle, it disappears for other players, whether you catch it or not. Be cautious when interacting with shiny Pokémon. You can trade and battle with friends in their world, and even breed Pokémon together, sharing the joy of new Pokémon eggs.
11. Making Sandwiches Together
You can make sandwiches together in multiplayer, sharing the same boosts. This cooperative activity enhances the multiplayer experience.
12. Paradox Pokémon
Paradox Pokémon are version-exclusive and will only spawn in your own version. To get the opposite version’s Paradox Pokémon, you’ll need to trade.
