Unveiling the Length of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet: The Teal Mask DLC – A Comprehensive Guide
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
So, you’re eager to dive into the mystical land of Kitakami with The Teal Mask DLC for Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, but a burning question lingers: How long will this adventure actually take? The answer, as with many open-world games, isn’t a simple one-size-fits-all. However, based on various player experiences and expert analyses, the main storyline of The Teal Mask can be completed in approximately 5 to 7 hours. This estimate accounts for engaging with the main narrative, battling key trainers, and catching a decent portion of the newly available Pokémon. However, true completionists aiming for 100% will be spending considerably more time in Kitakami. Let’s break it down further.
Factors Influencing Playtime
Several factors contribute to the overall time you’ll spend exploring The Teal Mask DLC:
- Playstyle: Are you a speedrunner focused solely on the main objectives, or a completionist determined to uncover every secret and fill your Pokédex? Your playstyle dramatically impacts your playtime.
- Exploration: Kitakami is a beautiful and diverse region. Taking the time to thoroughly explore its various locales, from the bustling community center to the serene Oni Mountain, will naturally extend your playtime.
- Pokémon Catching: The Kitakami Pokédex boasts over 200 Pokémon, including returning favorites and new additions. Dedicated collectors will invest significant time in locating, battling, and catching them all.
- Difficulty: While The Teal Mask doesn’t offer adjustable difficulty settings, your team composition and strategic approach to battles will influence how quickly you progress. Some players may find themselves needing to grind for levels or adjust their team to overcome challenging encounters.
- Side Content: While the DLC’s main focus is on the narrative, there are still various side activities and interactions to engage in, contributing to the overall playtime.
Estimated Playtimes Based on Completion Goals
To provide a clearer picture, here’s a breakdown of estimated playtimes based on different completion goals:
- Main Story Focus: 6½ Hours. This involves following the main storyline, battling key trainers, and reaching the conclusion of the narrative. You’ll likely catch some new Pokémon along the way, but filling the Pokédex isn’t a priority.
- Moderate Completion: 8-12 Hours. This includes completing the main story, catching a significant number of the new Pokémon, exploring most of the available areas, and engaging with some of the side content.
- 100% Completion: 14½ Hours or more. This involves meticulously exploring every corner of Kitakami, catching all 200+ Pokémon in the Kitakami Pokédex, completing all available side quests and challenges, and potentially even shiny hunting. For dedicated completionists, the time investment can easily surpass this estimate.
Is The Teal Mask DLC Worth It?
The “worth” factor is a completely subjective area and the value is something that each gamer has to weigh for themselves. Some reviews have been scathing, stating: “The Teal Mask is yet another step in a slow quality downslide for this series: it runs terribly, looks ugly, feels predictable, doesn’t offer any of the freedom Scarlet and Violet’s main story did, and falls short in so many ways compared to just about every other Pokemon game and DLC I’ve played.”
Other reviews have been more tempered stating that “Given that, the amount of content in the DLC is decent, but certainly not a bargain. The story is short, and the performance is still lacking, but if you love collecting Pokemon and a cute story, then the cost is justifiable. If you can’t handle the performance issues, then you may not be satisfied with your purchase.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What level should my Pokémon be before starting The Teal Mask?
It depends on whether you’ve completed the main story of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. If you have, the Pokémon in The Teal Mask DLC will be around Level 55 to start. If you haven’t finished the main story, they will be around Level 12.
2. Does The Teal Mask have post-game content?
Yes, there are several missions only available after you finish The Teal Mask main story.
3. Are any of the original Scarlet and Violet characters in The Teal Mask?
No, characters like Penny, Arven, and Nemona are not featured in The Teal Mask DLC. The focus is on new characters like Kieran, Carmine, and Briar.
4. What new Pokémon does The Teal Mask add?
The Teal Mask adds the new Legendary Pokémon Ogerpon, as well as many returning Pokémon from previous generations.
5. Can I play The Teal Mask with friends?
Yes, The Teal Mask can be played solo or with friends, offering limited multiplayer activities within the new area.
6. What color Jinbei can I unlock in The Teal Mask?
Initially, you receive a green Jinbei. After finishing the storyline and revisiting Carmine and Kieran’s grandmother, you unlock white/gray and deep blue colored Jinbei.
7. Where can I find Gligar in The Teal Mask?
Gligar can be found in the Paradise Barrens, Kitakami Wilds, and various parts of Oni Mountain.
8. How many Pokémon are in the Kitakami Pokédex?
The Kitakami Pokédex includes over 200 Pokémon.
9. What is the strongest Pokémon in The Teal Mask?
Ogerpon, with its four masks, is considered one of the strongest and most versatile Pokémon in The Teal Mask DLC.
10. Where can I find Feebas in The Teal Mask?
Feebas can be found in the pools hidden within the tunnels lying beneath the Crystal Pool of Oni Mountain.
11. Are there version-exclusive Pokémon in The Teal Mask?
Yes, The Teal Mask has version-exclusive Pokémon, meaning some Pokémon will only be available in either Scarlet or Violet.
12. Who is the main rival in The Teal Mask DLC?
Carmine and her younger brother Kieran are your main rivals as you explore Kitakami.
13. What new areas does The Teal Mask add?
The Teal Mask adds the new area of Kitakami, a region inspired by Japanese folklore.
14. What does The Teal Mask story focus on?
The story revolves around uncovering the mystery behind a legendary folktale passed down for generations in Kitakami, with you being a player in understanding the history of the land.
15. Where does The Teal Mask fit in with the Indigo Disk DLC?
The Teal Mask is part one of The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero DLC. Playing it will set the stage for The Indigo Disk, continuing the stories of the characters introduced here. You really do need to complete the Teal Mask before starting The Indigo Disk, otherwise much of the dialogue in the latter will not make much sense.
Conclusion
The length of The Teal Mask DLC varies depending on your playstyle and completion goals. While the main story can be completed in approximately 5 to 7 hours, completionists can easily spend 14½ hours or more exploring every nook and cranny of Kitakami and filling their Pokédex. While the quality and the value has been heavily debated online, and in the press, hopefully you now have a better understanding of what you are getting into when venturing on this new adventure in the Pokemon Scarlet and Violet world!
For those interested in learning more about the educational aspects of gaming, be sure to visit the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.