Unveiling the Treasures of Ruin: A Deep Dive into Scarlet & Violet’s Dark Quartet

The Treasures of Ruin are four Dark-type Legendary Pokémon introduced in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet: Wo-Chien, Chien-Pao, Ting-Lu, and Chi-Yu. These powerful Pokémon are inspired by the Four Perils from Chinese mythology, representing malevolent beasts associated with chaos and destruction. Sealed away long ago due to their dangerous power, they are a fascinating and formidable addition to the Pokémon universe.

The Four Ruinous Pokémon: A Closer Look

Each member of the Treasures of Ruin possesses a unique design, lore, and battling style. Let’s explore each of these incredible Pokémon:

Wo-Chien: The Ruinous Weave

• Typing: Dark/Grass
• Inspiration: Hundun, the primordial chaos.
• Description: Wo-Chien is represented by a collection of decaying leaves animated by dark energy. A tablet is at the center of the leaves. Its design evokes a sense of withering and decay. Legend says that Wo-Chien was created when resentment seeped into old tablets that were used for writing.
• Signature Move: Ruination, a Dark-type attack that always deals half of the target’s current HP.
• Lore Significance: Associated with bringing disaster and destruction. Represents the negative impact of unchecked resentment and the decay of knowledge.

Chien-Pao: The Ruinous Sword

• Typing: Dark/Ice
• Inspiration: Taowu, the ignorant monster.
• Description: Chien-Pao is a saber-toothed Pokémon covered in ice. Possesses a collection of sword fragments animated by dark ice. It’s a sleek and menacing design that speaks to its powerful Ice-type abilities. Legend says that Chien-Pao was created from fragments of a sword consumed by hatred that made the fragments become frozen.
• Signature Move: Ruination
• Lore Significance: Symbolizes the dangers of ignorance and the destructive power of reckless aggression.

Ting-Lu: The Ruinous Vessel

• Typing: Dark/Ground
• Inspiration: Taotie, the gluttonous ogre.
• Description: Ting-Lu is a massive, imposing Pokémon with a deer-like appearance. It carries a giant vessel (a pot) on its back, embodying its Ground-type strength. A bronze vessel made it into being when the ground cracked due to the fear instilled in it.
• Signature Move: Ruination
• Lore Significance: Represents insatiable greed and the devastating consequences of unchecked consumption.

Chi-Yu: The Ruinous Beads

• Typing: Dark/Fire
• Inspiration: Qiongqi, the treacherous beast.
• Description: Chi-Yu is a small, fish-like Pokémon comprised of flaming beads. Its design is vibrant and otherworldly, reflecting its potent Fire-type attacks. Legend says that Chi-Yu came into being when jewels were imbued with dread and burned with malice.
• Signature Move: Ruination
• Lore Significance: Embodies malice and treachery, representing the destructive nature of deceit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are the Treasures of Ruin considered Mythical or Legendary Pokémon? The Treasures of Ruin are classified as Legendary Pokémon.

2. How do you find the Treasures of Ruin in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet? To find them, you must locate and remove Ominous Stakes scattered throughout the Paldea region. Removing these stakes unlocks the sealed shrines where the Pokémon reside.

3. Are the Treasures of Ruin version exclusives? No, the Treasures of Ruin can be found in both Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet.

4. What level are the Treasures of Ruin when you encounter them? The Treasures of Ruin are encountered at Level 60.

5. What makes Chi-Yu the “strongest” of the Treasures of Ruin? Chi-Yu boasts an exceptionally high Special Attack stat of 135. It is also regarded as the strongest due to its Fire and Dark Typing that allows it to be offensive against many different types.

6. Why are the Treasures of Ruin called “antiheroes” instead of villains? While associated with destruction, their actions are often portrayed as a consequence of human actions or negative emotions. Their story is more complex than simple villainy, leading some to consider them antiheroes.

7. What is the significance of the “Ruination” move? Ruination is a signature Dark-type move shared by all four Treasures of Ruin. It deals half of the target’s current HP as damage, making it a powerful and consistent attack.

8. What is the origin of the names of the Treasures of Ruin? Their names are derived from Chinese language puns and wordplay. For example, Chi-Yu’s name incorporates elements referencing “jade goldfish” in Chinese.

9. How do the Treasures of Ruin connect to the Four Benevolent Animals? In Chinese mythology, the Four Perils are considered the counterparts to the Four Benevolent Animals (Azure Dragon, White Tiger, Vermilion Bird, and Black Tortoise). The Perils represent negative aspects while the Benevolent Animals represent positive traits.

10. Is it difficult to catch the Treasures of Ruin? Yes, they are Legendary Pokémon, so they can be challenging to catch. Prepare with strong Pokémon and plenty of Poké Balls.

11. Can the Treasures of Ruin be used in competitive battling? Yes, the Treasures of Ruin are viable choices in competitive battling, each offering unique strengths and strategies. Their usage can be explored further in the Games Learning Society community and other resources dedicated to competitive Pokémon.

12. Do the Treasures of Ruin have unique abilities?

    Yes, each has a unique ability:

    • Wo-Chien: Tablets of Ruin – Lowers the Attack stats of all Pokémon other than itself.
    • Chien-Pao: Sword of Ruin – Lowers the Defense stats of all Pokémon other than itself.
    • Ting-Lu: Vessel of Ruin – Lowers the Special Defense stats of all Pokémon other than itself.
    • Chi-Yu: Beads of Ruin – Lowers the Special Attack stats of all Pokémon other than itself.

13. Are there any hidden secrets or lore related to the Treasures of Ruin that players might miss?

    Yes, there are! Digging deeper into Chinese mythology and the stories of the Four Perils can provide additional context to their characters and motivations. Also, note their design details and the artifacts they embody – tablets, swords, vessels, and beads – for insights into their background.

14. How do the Treasures of Ruin impact the overall story of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet? They represent a significant part of Paldea’s history and lore, offering a narrative about the dangers of unchecked negative emotions and the importance of understanding the past. The search for them becomes a quest for forbidden power and an understanding of how power can corrupt.

15. Can you breed the Treasures of Ruin to get more? No, the Treasures of Ruin, being Legendary Pokémon, cannot be bred. You can only catch one of each in your game.

In conclusion, the Treasures of Ruin are a compelling addition to the Pokémon world. Their complex lore, unique designs, and formidable battling capabilities make them fascinating Pokémon to collect and use. Understanding their origins and inspirations adds another layer of depth to the games, showcasing the rich storytelling woven into the Pokémon universe. For more insights into the impact of games and learning, consider exploring the resources at GamesLearningSociety.org.