A variety of trailers have premiered as marketing for Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, but the series has a long history of promotional events that could be re-purposed for Generation 9. Players will finally have the opportunity to explore Scarlet and Violet's brand-new Paldea region this November, but the days leading up to the release can test the patience of some eager trainers. Fortunately, the Pokémon Company has a long history of promotional events geared towards building hype while giving fans a taste of what’s to come. From vibrant animations to demos, Pokémon enthusiasts have seen their fair share of successful promotions, and a few less-than-successful ones too.
While there are a variety of different approaches to promoting a new Pokémon title, the most effective ones often involve focusing on what makes a new region or remake unique. Before the release of Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire, for instance, players had the chance to capture a Mega Glalie through a promotional demo. Not only did this net players a new partner for their team, but it also provided them their first gameplay experience in the redesigned version of Pokémon's best region, Hoenn. Promotions like this one are far more enjoyable for players compared to simply driving to the nearest game store to pick up a piece of paper with a code printed on it. A successful promotion should engage players, highlight the appeal of the new games, and feel memorable in its own right.
One of the best ways to introduce players to the Paldea region would be through a demo similar to ORAS's that takes advantage of the open world and new Pokémon-vehicle hybrid mechanics. Koraidon and Miraidon are also going to serve as a means of transportation, allowing players to cruise through this luscious new region, even though Scarlet and Violet's rideable Legendaries don't make sense. Rather than forcing players into a tutorial the moment they receive access to their Legendary motorcycle buddy, a free demo could prepare players so that they are ready to jump right into the action. A series of missions or mini-games tied to the driving gameplay could help players familiarize themselves with the world both visually and mechanically.
Pokémon Scarlet & Violet Could Use A Demo
If the Pokémon Company doesn’t want to spoil their new driving gameplay, they could always take a more controlled approach to their teasers. Players can take an on-rails visual tour through a set path in Paldea, but with the help of the Switch’s gyroscope functionality, they can familiarize themselves with the region at their own pace without spoiling too many of the games’ surprises. The Pokémon Company is no stranger to taking advantage of gyroscopes, as was proven by Pokémon Dream Radar, a promotional title released on the 3DS eShop as a way of promoting the release of the fishing ruining Pokémon Black 2 & White 2. While Pokémon Dream Radar featured fast-paced gyroscope gameplay based around capturing Pokémon, instead Pokémon Scarlet & Violet can take a note from Pokémon Snap, and instead opt for the scenic route. A slower-paced ride through the Paldea region might be exactly what players need to appreciate the graphical changes from one generation to the next.
With the ninth generation of Pokémon on the horizon, players are anxious to set off on their next journey. Not only would these promotions help satisfy trainers eager for more Pokémon content, but they could also act as a new player’s first step into one of gaming’s most beloved franchises. The Paldea region is full of discoveries waiting to be made, but a glimpse into the adventures to come in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet would certainly go a long way toward generating excitement for the generation to come.