A Guide to 'Pokémon Scarlet' and 'Pokémon Violet'

Game Freak has delivered yet another generation of Pokémon to trainers, ushering in Gen 9 with the Paldea region in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. The games, available exclusively for the Nintendo Switch, released on Nov. 18 — though, not before some massive leaks about the game got out.

Since Scarlet and Violet are the franchise's first truly open-world experience, you won't be able to follow the traditional path to completion. So to help you, here's a walkthrough guide with some of the many tips and tricks we think you need to know when exploring Paldea.

The Paldea region is filled with new Pokémon and exciting secrets to uncover — but not everyone was able to dive into the new game right away. Unfortunately, though fans were incredibly hyped for the release of Scarlet and Violet, the game launched with many glitches and issues that have left players less-than-satisfied. If you've just started your playthrough, or you're still on the fence about buying it, here's what you need to know before diving in.

• The differences between Scarlet and Violet.
• Which starter is best?
• How to get all three starter Pokémon.
• Victory Road vs. Starfall Street vs. the Path of Titans — what order to complete them in.
• Everything to know about sandwiches and food.
• What to know about Paradox Pokémon.
• What to know about Terastallizing.
• What Legendary Pokémon are in the game?

• What you can do to fix the game's glitches.
• How to get a refund for Scarlet and Violet.

No matter how seasoned of a trainer you are, you're bound to have some questions as you advance through the game. Thankfully, we've answered some of them!

• How to explore Paldea with your friends.
• How to change your clothes.
• What does washing your Pokémon actually do?
• What is the secret dish to battle the Normal Gym leader?
• Where to find Leftovers.
• Everything to know about TMs.
• How to catch Gimmighoul.
• Are Scarlet and Violet compatible with Pokémon HOME?

Shiny hunting can easily take hundreds of hours of playtime, depending on how determined you are. But thankfully, we have some easy guides to help you.

• How do you know if a Pokémon is Shiny?
• Are the starter Pokémon Shiny-locked?
• Can you get a Shiny Koraidon or Miraidon?
• Shiny hunting tips and tricks to get you started.
• Does the Masuda method work in Scarlet and Violet?
• Everything to know about breeding Pokémon in Scarlet and Violet.
• How to catch a Ditto.