Pokémon Scarlet & Violet introduced us to Tera Raids Battles, and here’s how this unique feature works in the game.
Pokémon Scarlet & Violet introduces a new gameplay feature called Tera Raid Battles, where you and your friends can work as a team to take on a wild Pokémon with a unique Tera Type.
This is reminiscent of the Sword & Shield games’ Dynamax Raids, but with the added twist. The difference is that these battles are in Scarlet and Violet happens in real-time. Here’s how it all works.
Finding A Tera Raid
Once you’ve gotten to the main game and you’ve started your Treasure Hunt, you’ll be able to embark on Tera Raid Battles either by yourself or with friends. Out in the world, you’ll see glowing crystals that are sure to draw your attention. If you can’t find any, pull up your map and look for the Tera Raid Indicators that look like little type icons dotted about. To help you find it, set it as your destination and head for your Tera Raid Crystal of choice.
In The Overworld
Even if you’re not looking for one, you might run across it in your travels. It doesn’t hurt to interact with them even if you don’t want to battle, as you’ll be rewarded with League Points. They’re hard to miss, but bear in mind that wild Terastallized Pokémon will also glow in a similar way, and you might have to get close to tell the difference.
Gather Your Party
When you enter the Tera Raid menu, you’ll have the option to pick the Pokémon you’ll be using in the Raid and whether you’d like to challenge with friends or by yourself. If you’re playing in multiplayer mode, you can only take on the raid with the people in your group (or by yourself), but if you’re in single-player mode and connected to the internet, friendly strangers can join you. If you choose to raid by yourself, the game will generate NPCs to help you out, so don’t worry!
The Fight
Tera Raid battles are in real-time, so you’ll have to make your decisions quickly. Use your most effective and most powerful attacks, but keep an eye out for your allies too. The “Cheer” actions aren’t just for show, and a decisive “Heal Up!” or “Go All Out!” can make or break your victory.
Aftermath
When you get the Terastallized Pokémon down to zero HP, you’ll be able to catch it. You don’t have to, but there are no downsides to having a Pokémon with a unique Tera-Type — whether you plan on keeping it or trading it to a friend. Aside from the Pokémon itself, though, you’ll be awarded materials, treasure, and XP candy for completing the battle.
