Can You Ride Flying Pokémon in Violet? A Comprehensive Guide

No, you cannot directly ride flying Pokémon other than Miraidon (in Violet) or Koraidon (in Scarlet) once their flying ability is unlocked via The Indigo Disk DLC. While you encounter many fantastic flying-type Pokémon throughout the Paldea region, the game mechanics restrict the mountable Pokémon to these two legendaries after their respective upgrades are obtained. So, while you can’t soar the skies on a Salamence or a Dragonite, Miraidon/Koraidon offer a unique and integrated flying experience tied directly to the game’s progression.

Mastering Paldea’s Skies: A Deep Dive into Rideable Flying

While the initial answer is straightforward, understanding the nuances of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet’s exploration mechanics enhances the gaming experience. The core concept revolves around Koraidon and Miraidon, your legendary companions who transform from rideable Pokémon into powerful allies with diverse traversal abilities.

Unlocking the Power of Flight

At the beginning of the game, Koraidon/Miraidon’s movement is limited to running, swimming, and basic traversal. To unlock the full potential of aerial exploration, you must progress through The Indigo Disk DLC. This expansion provides the opportunity to grant your legendary mount the capability of true flight. This is more than just gliding; it’s full-fledged aerial movement, allowing you to explore previously inaccessible areas and experience Paldea from a completely new perspective.

Limitations and Considerations

It’s essential to remember that Koraidon/Miraidon are the only Pokémon you can directly ride for flying. This design choice impacts how you approach exploration. You can’t simply swap to another flying-type Pokémon for different stats or abilities while riding.

Furthermore, while gliding is unlocked earlier in the game by defeating the Quaking Earth Titan, it’s a limited ability. You will eventually lose altitude. True flight, unlocked through The Indigo Disk DLC, offers sustained aerial travel.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions, designed to give you a complete understanding of flying and riding mechanics in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet.

1. Can I catch the Titan Pokémon and then ride them?

No, you cannot catch the Titan Pokémon variants. You can only capture the standard versions of those Pokémon in the wild. The Titan encounters are primarily designed for unlocking traversal abilities for Koraidon/Miraidon.

2. Is there any way to ride Cyclizar in Violet?

Unfortunately, no. Cyclizar is not rideable, even though it shares a visual resemblance to Koraidon/Miraidon. The rideable forms are exclusively reserved for the legendaries.

3. Can I trade my Koraidon/Miraidon for a different flying Pokémon to ride?

No, you cannot trade or store your ride Pokémon. They are intrinsically tied to your character and world traversal.

4. What are the best flying-type Pokémon to use in battle if I can’t ride them?

While you can’t ride them, many Flying-type Pokémon are incredibly powerful in battle. Some of the best include: Moltres, Enamorus, Dragonite, Rayquaza, Salamence, Honchkrow, and Noivern. Their effectiveness depends on your team composition and battle strategy.

5. What does defeating the Open Sky Titan do?

Defeating the Open Sky Titan doesn’t unlock flying. It unlocks a different ability, usually something related to the game’s story or another traversal mechanic. To unlock flying, you will need to focus on The Indigo Disk DLC.

6. How do I unlock swimming with Koraidon/Miraidon?

Swimming is unlocked by defeating the Open Sky Titan. After this victory, your legendary Pokémon will automatically transition to swimming mode when entering water.

7. What is the difference between Koraidon and Miraidon in terms of flying?

Functionally, there is no difference in their flying capabilities. Both Pokémon, once the ability is unlocked through The Indigo Disk DLC, provide the same level of aerial maneuverability. Their stat differences are primarily reflected in battles, not in exploration. Koraidon favors physical attacks, while Miraidon specializes in special attacks.

8. Can I control the altitude and speed of Koraidon/Miraidon while flying?

Yes, you have control over altitude and speed. Using the control stick allows you to ascend, descend, and adjust your forward momentum.

9. Can I battle while flying on Koraidon/Miraidon?

No, you cannot initiate battles directly from the air. You must land before engaging in combat.

10. Is gliding the same as flying?

No. Gliding, unlocked by defeating the Quaking Earth Titan, is a temporary descent. You will eventually lose altitude. True flying, unlocked through The Indigo Disk DLC, provides sustained aerial movement.

11. Can I get a second Koraidon/Miraidon?

Yes, you can obtain a second Koraidon/Miraidon after completing the main story. This second legendary is usually in its battle form, ready for competitive play.

12. Are there any limitations to where I can fly in Paldea?

While the flying ability grants immense freedom, some areas might be inaccessible due to invisible walls or story-related restrictions. Overall, the flying mechanic greatly expands the explorable areas.

13. What is the best way to train my flying-type Pokémon for battle?

The best way to train your Flying-type Pokémon depends on their individual stats and desired role. Focus on EV training in relevant stats, like Attack or Special Attack, and teach them powerful moves like Brave Bird or Hurricane. Proper team composition and strategic battling are also crucial. The Games Learning Society often publishes articles on game strategy; they might have insights on specific battle strategies. Check out GamesLearningSociety.org.

14. What exclusive Pokémon are available in Violet compared to Scarlet?

Pokémon Violet features future-themed Pokémon, including Iron Valiant and others. Conversely, Scarlet features past-themed Pokémon like Roaring Moon. Some Pokémon are entirely version-exclusive, influencing team composition and requiring trading to complete the Pokédex.

15. Is it worth getting The Indigo Disk DLC just for the flying ability?

For many players, the answer is a resounding yes. The ability to fully explore the Paldea region from the air significantly enhances the game’s exploration aspect. Additionally, the DLC offers a new storyline, new Pokémon, and other features that contribute to a richer gaming experience.

Soaring Through Paldea: A Final Thought

While you cannot ride just any flying Pokémon in Pokémon Violet, the dedicated flying mechanics centered around Miraidon offer a unique and integrated experience. By progressing through the game and the Indigo Disk DLC, you unlock the ability to traverse Paldea’s skies in style, discovering new areas and perspectives. Remember to strategically use your flying-type Pokémon in battle, even if you can’t ride them, and enjoy the vibrant world that Pokémon Violet has to offer.