Kotaku's Review on Pokémon Scarlet & Violet: The Teal Mask
Pokémon Scarlet and Violet: The Teal Mask - A Comprehensive Review
After devoting an astonishing 120 hours to Pokémon Scarlet and Violet since their release last November, it's become clear that these open-world Switch games have some performance issues. These issues seem to be amplified in the recent DLC, The Teal Mask, which struggles to maintain a consistent framerate, sometimes even coming to a complete halt.
Despite the technical issues, The Teal Mask does manage to shine in certain aspects. It's a refreshing change of pace from the high-stakes narratives of Scarlet and Violet, focusing instead on the more mundane aspects of the main character's school life. The narrative brings us to the remote region of Kitakami, where we learn about local legends and partake in a Pokémon festival. In spite of its shortcomings, The Teal Mask encapsulates both the strengths and weaknesses of Scarlet and Violet.
New Characters and Storylines
Where The Teal Mask truly excels is in its character development. New characters such as the siblings Kieran and Carmine are introduced, adding a fresh dynamic to the already captivating cast of Scarlet and Violet. Carmine's fiery personality and Kieran's emotional depth make for engaging storytelling, focusing on themes of exclusion within the community of Kitakami.
What is particularly admirable is the focus on world-building and character development, rather than simply adding more competitive tweaks and catchable critters to the mix. The Teal Mask sets a promising precedent for future expansions of the Pokémon world, with the Hidden Treasure of Area Zero expansion set to conclude later this year with The Indigo Disk DLC.
The Legend of Ogerpon
The storyline of The Teal Mask also delves into the lore of Ogerpon, a mysterious legendary Pokémon and the titular owner of the teal mask. The tale of Ogerpon, involving local urban legends and a story of disenfranchisement, adds a layer of depth to the narrative. Even though Ogerpon's unique ability to swap typings and other properties with different masks isn't particularly novel, its backstory adds an interesting cultural dimension to the new region.
In conclusion, while The Teal Mask may struggle with technical issues, it nevertheless offers engaging storytelling and exciting character development. It is a promising addition to the Pokémon universe, setting the stage for future expansions and stories.
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