If you are playing Pokémon Scarlet, one of the first things you will notice is that your game offers a unique set of creatures that can only be found in this version. These are known as Pokémon Scarlet exclusives, and collecting them is essential for anyone aiming to complete the Pokédex or trade with friends.
Understanding what these exclusives are and how to get them can make your journey much easier, whether you are a casual player or a dedicated trainer.
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What Are Version Exclusives in Pokémon Scarlet?
Version exclusives are Pokémon that are locked to either Scarlet or Violet. They are designed to encourage trading and cooperation between players. In Scarlet, you will encounter Pokémon with an ancient or primal theme, reflecting the game’s focus on past timelines.
Many of these exclusives cannot be found in Violet without trading or special events, which makes knowing how to capture and obtain them crucial for completionists.
Why Scarlet Exclusives Are Important
Scarlet exclusives are not only necessary to complete the National Pokédex but also provide unique battle strategies. Some of them have exclusive moves, types, or abilities that give you an edge in battles. Trainers who are into competitive play often hunt for these Pokémon to round out their teams.
Even if you are not competing, owning version-exclusive Pokémon can make trading more rewarding, since Violet players will often be looking for the Pokémon you can provide.
Base Game Pokémon Scarlet Exclusives
The base game of Pokémon Scarlet features several exclusives that highlight its ancient-inspired theme. Players can find Pokémon like Great Tusk, Scream Tail, Flutter Mane, Slither Wing, and Sandy Shocks, each representing primal forms of familiar species.
Legendary Pokémon such as Koraidon are also locked to Scarlet. Capturing these exclusives typically requires progressing through the story and exploring areas like Area Zero and special Tera Raid battles. For many trainers, the thrill of discovering these Pokémon in the wild is one of the highlights of the game.
How to Get Base Game Exclusives
Obtaining Scarlet exclusives can be done directly in your game by exploring the correct areas, but if you are missing Violet exclusives, you will need to trade. The Union Circle feature allows you to team up with friends playing Violet, where you can catch their exclusives in their world.
Another method is Tera Raid battles, where opposite-version Pokémon may appear if you join a hosted raid. Finally, Pokémon HOME makes it possible to trade across the globe, connecting you with trainers who have what you need.
DLC Pokémon Scarlet Exclusives
The Teal Mask and Indigo Disk expansions added a new layer of exclusives for Scarlet. In the Teal Mask, Scarlet players get access to Gligar, Gliscor, and Cramorant. In the Indigo Disk, Scarlet introduces powerful Paradox forms such as Gouging Fire and Raging Bolt.
These Pokémon continue the theme of primal strength and further distinguish Scarlet from Violet. Collecting these requires progressing through the DLC storylines and sometimes winning special battles. The DLC exclusives add depth to the game and give Scarlet trainers even more reasons to explore Paldea and beyond.
How to Get DLC Exclusives
To catch Scarlet DLC exclusives, you must own and play through the expansions. Most of them appear in specific areas or as part of special quests. For players who do not own the Scarlet version, the only way to obtain them is through trading.
This makes Scarlet players highly valuable in the trading community, since their exclusives are often in demand. Using Pokémon HOME or joining online communities on Reddit and Discord are some of the most reliable ways to exchange DLC exclusives with other trainers.
Understanding Paradox Pokémon
One of the highlights of Scarlet exclusives is the introduction of Paradox Pokémon. These creatures represent ancient versions of familiar species, such as Great Tusk as a primal Donphan or Flutter Mane as an ancient Misdreavus.
Paradox Pokémon are often powerful and visually distinct, making them highly desirable. They can usually be found in Area Zero, but some appear only after completing parts of the story or DLC quests. Learning where to find them and how to battle them effectively is key for collectors.
Strategies to Get Exclusives Without Both Versions
Not every trainer wants to buy both Scarlet and Violet, and luckily you do not have to. There are several ways to get exclusives without owning both games. Joining Tera Raid battles hosted by friends or strangers allows you to encounter Violet exclusives.
The Union Circle lets you explore another player’s world and capture Pokémon not normally found in your version. Pokémon HOME offers a trading system that connects you with players worldwide, so you can swap your Scarlet exclusives for their Violet ones. Some players also share trade codes in online communities, making the process even easier.
Shiny Rewards for Completing the Pokédex
If you manage to collect all exclusives and complete your Pokédex, Pokémon HOME offers rewards that make your effort worthwhile. One notable reward is the distribution of shiny legendary Pokémon through Mystery Gifts.
This motivates players to trade and collect diligently, since the reward is both rare and prestigious. Completing the Pokédex is one of the ultimate goals for many trainers, and Scarlet exclusives play a central role in making that possible.
FAQs
Can Scarlet exclusives be bred?
Some Scarlet exclusives can be bred if you already own them, but legendary Pokémon and certain Paradox species cannot.
Do Tera Raid battles always feature exclusives?
No, raids are chance-based and depend on who is hosting the battle. Joining raids from opposite-version players increases your odds.
Are Scarlet exclusives tradeable through Pokémon HOME?
Yes, most exclusives can be traded through Pokémon HOME. However, story-based legendaries like Koraidon may have restrictions on how many times they can be transferred.
Do I need the DLC to complete my Pokédex?
You can complete the base Pokédex without the DLC, but the expansions add new exclusives that are required if you want the full National Dex.
What is the easiest way to get Violet exclusives if I only have Scarlet?
The easiest way is to trade through Pokémon HOME or join Union Circle sessions with friends who own Violet. Online communities also make finding trade partners simple.
Conclusion
Pokémon Scarlet exclusives are an essential part of the game and a major reason why trading remains such an important mechanic in the series. From ancient Paradox Pokémon to DLC-only species, Scarlet offers a unique roster that cannot be found anywhere else.
By exploring your world, joining raids, using Union Circle, and trading through Pokémon HOME, you can not only complete your Pokédex but also build a team that truly stands out. For any dedicated trainer, mastering how to get these exclusives is a rewarding step toward becoming a Pokémon champion.
