The Next Big Shift in Pokémon VGC: Pros Dive Into Regulation G

Key Takeaways

• Legendary Pokémon Enter the Fray: Regulation G introduces a game-changing rule allowing one restricted Legendary Pokémon per team.
• Calyrex Takes Center Stage: Shadow Rider Calyrex, with its formidable speed and Special Attack, alongside Terastallization, is a top pick among pros.
• Counters on the Rise: Expect to see a surge in bulky Dark-type Pokémon as players strategize to counter Shadow Rider Calyrex's dominance.
• New Gen IX Legendaries to Watch: Koraidon, Miraidon, and Terapagos are set to shake up the meta with their unique abilities and roles.
• Diverse Meta Predicted: The limitation of one restricted Legendary per team encourages a varied and strategic team composition.

Pokémon Scarlet and Violet's VGC is bracing for a seismic shift with the introduction of Regulation G, a new ruleset that's stirring the competitive pot by allowing one restricted Legendary Pokémon on each team. Conversations with some of the world's top players at the Europe International Championships (EUIC) — including heavyweights like Jeudy Azzarelli, James Baek, and Wolfe Glick — reveal a mix of anticipation and strategic recalibration as the community gears up for this transformative period.

The Calyrex Conundrum

The spotlight, without a doubt, shines brightest on Shadow Rider Calyrex. This Legendary Pokémon, known for its blistering speed and astronomical Special Attack, is poised to redefine the meta. Players are particularly excited (and wary) about its potential when paired with Terastallization, which not only patches its vulnerabilities but also amplifies its offensive prowess. Joseph Ugarte highlighted, “With Terastallization... Calyrex Shadow only gets better. There’s no Dynamax to counteract it, and Tera Ghost can significantly boost Astral Barrage’s damage.”

Yet, for every action, there's an equal and opposite reaction. Alex Gómez Berna and other pros foresee a counter-movement, predicting a rise in bulky Dark-types designed to withstand Shadow Rider Calyrex's onslaught. The competitive scene is thus expected to evolve, fostering a dynamic where power checks power.

Gen IX's New Contenders

Beyond Calyrex, the introduction of Gen IX's Koraidon, Miraidon, and Terapagos into VGC heralds fresh strategic dimensions. Each brings unique capabilities to the battlefield, from terrain setting to weather manipulation, promising to enrich team compositions and battle dynamics. James Baek enthused about Terapagos, noting its potential to disrupt opponents with its ability to nullify terrain and weather effects, alongside a super-effective spread move that targets Pokémon using Terastallization.

Aaron "Cybertron" Zheng, meanwhile, is betting on Kyogre to make a splash despite the presence of formidable counters. His optimism is a testament to the enduring viability of well-constructed teams and classic strategies in the evolving VGC landscape.

A Diverse Battlefield Awaits

Perhaps the most exciting aspect of Regulation G is the diversity it promises. With only one restricted Legendary per team, players are encouraged to explore a broader array of strategies and Pokémon combinations. Wolfe Glick captured this sentiment, predicting a meta that's "pretty wide rather than very centralized," a scenario where creativity and innovation are key to victory.

As Regulation G looms on the horizon, the VGC community is buzzing with speculation, strategy, and the thrill of competition. With legendary forces set to clash, the coming months will undoubtedly be a spectacle of tactical brilliance and Pokémon prowess. Whether you're a seasoned pro or an aspiring champion, the evolving battlefield of Pokémon VGC is a call to arms, beckoning every Trainer to rise to the challenge.