How to download and play Pokemon Scarlet and Violet DLC

TL;DR

  • Hidden Treasure of Area Zero costs $34.99 and includes two parts: The Teal Mask (September 13) and The Indigo Disk (Winter 2023)
  • Early purchase before October 31, 2023, grants exclusive Hisuian Zoroark with Dark Tera type and Charismatic Mark
  • DLC purchases are version-specific – Scarlet owners must buy Scarlet bundle, Violet owners must buy Violet bundle
  • Content downloads automatically when available if console is connected to internet
  • Complete base game story to access The Teal Mask, then finish it to unlock The Indigo Disk

The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero expansion represents the first major downloadable content addition for Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, introducing substantial new adventures beyond the Paldea region. This premium DLC package offers an early-purchase incentive that remains claimable until October 31, 2023, providing immediate value for dedicated trainers.

Game Freak has structured this expansion as a two-part narrative journey: The Teal Mask launches on September 13, 2023, followed by The Indigo Disk scheduled for Winter 2023. This sequential release strategy allows players to experience the content progressively while maintaining engagement between major updates.

Priced at $34.99 USD, the DLC bundles maintain strict version exclusivity. Trainers must purchase the expansion matching their base game version – Scarlet players require the Scarlet bundle, while Violet players need the Violet bundle. Cross-version compatibility doesn’t exist, making this a critical consideration during the purchasing decision process to avoid acquiring non-functional content.

Hidden Treasure of Area Zero early purchase bonus

Although The Teal Mask portion releases on September 13, the special bonus redemption period extends through October 31, 2023. Eligible players receive a unique Mystery Gift code delivering Hisuian Zoroark possessing the rare Dark Tera type. This exclusive variant also features the distinctive Charismatic Mark and comes pre-equipped with the valuable Happy Hour move, which doubles prize money earned in battles.

While standard Zoroark appears in the Paldea regional Pokédex, the Hisuian form remains exclusively obtainable through this limited-time Mystery Gift distribution. This particular Pokémon combination with these specific traits cannot be encountered through normal gameplay or found wild anywhere in the game world.

How to download Pokemon Scarlet and Violet DLC

Acquisition occurs exclusively through the Nintendo eShop platform, where players must select the bundle corresponding to their game version. A common mistake involves purchasing the wrong version bundle, resulting in wasted money and frustration – always double-check your game version before completing the transaction.

Following purchase confirmation, the game automatically updates when each DLC segment becomes available. On September 13, provided the Nintendo Switch remains powered on and connected to stable internet, The Teal Mask downloads autonomously. Identical automatic download behavior applies when The Indigo Disk releases later.

For trainers purchasing after The Indigo Disk’s launch, both expansion components download simultaneously upon transaction completion. This streamlined process eliminates manual intervention requirements for time-conscious players.

Accessing the fresh content mandates completion of the primary storyline in the base game. Furthermore, The Indigo Disk remains locked until players successfully conclude The Teal Mask’s narrative arc, creating a progressive unlocking mechanism.

Seasoned trainers recommend verifying your game version through the title screen before DLC acquisition. Additionally, completing three main story paths and the final Academy Ace Tournament in the base game ensures immediate access to The Teal Mask upon its release.

Network connectivity represents another crucial factor – ensure your Switch maintains stable internet connection for seamless automatic downloads. Consider enabling automatic downloads in system settings and keeping the console in sleep mode rather than fully powered off.

Optimization strategy: Begin preparing your competitive team before DLC launch, as new Pokémon and mechanics may significantly impact the metagame. Allocate approximately 2-3 hours to complete The Teal Mask’s main story to promptly access The Indigo Disk.

Avoid the frequent error of assuming version bundles are interchangeable – they function like game-specific keys. For players owning both Scarlet and Violet, separate purchases for each version become necessary to access the content across both games.

Action Checklist

  • Verify your game version (Scarlet or Violet) before purchase
  • Purchase correct version bundle from Nintendo eShop before October 31, 2023
  • Complete base game storylines to prepare for DLC access
  • Ensure stable internet connection for automatic downloads on release dates
  • Redeem Mystery Gift code for Hisuian Zoroark before deadline

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