Pokémon Scarlet & Violet’s Paradox Pokémon have been a major highlight of Generation 9. Depending on the version of the game you’re playing, you’ll encounter Ancient or Future Pokémon—creatures that resemble ones from previous games but exist as distant past or future versions. Some of the remarkable Paradox Pokémon in the base game include Slither Wing, a ground slug variation of Volcarona, and Iron Valiant, a blend of Gardevoir and Gallade in a sleek metallic form. During the recent Pokémon Presents August 2023 showcase, two new Paradox Pokémon were revealed for The Indigo Disk (part two of The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero), and one of them is generating a lot of buzz.
Introducing Raging Bolt, a sauropod-like Pokémon with a quadrupedal stance, a long neck, and a head that appears to be hidden in the clouds (but is actually its mane).
Fans familiar with Pokémon history may notice that Raging Bolt bears resemblances to Raikou, one of the legendary dogs from Pokémon Gold & Silver, and follows in the footsteps of Walking Wake, the Paradox version of Suicune. However, Raging Bolt’s design has proven to be controversial, to say the least. It’s interesting to see such a reaction to a Pokémon design, considering Raikou’s popularity with its iconic saber-toothed tiger appearance. The Paradox version brings significant and bold changes, resulting in mixed sentiments from fans, both criticizing and defending the design of this towering new Paradox Pokémon.
#PokemonScarletViolet #RagingBolt pic.twitter.com/5xOKWRGvbe
Oh no what happened to Raikou?
Similar to Walking Wake, Raging Bolt draws inspiration from the dinosaur clades. While Walking Wake is based on theropods, Raging Bolt reflects the features of a sauropod. It’s likely that Raging Bolt is designed after a Brontosaurus, which translates to “thunder lizard”—a fitting choice.
No Pokémon design will ever please everyone, but the reaction to redesigns or reinterpretations of classic Pokémon from previous generations is always intriguing. Considering the artwork in the Scarlet/Violet Book in-game, it’s highly probable that even Entei will receive a Paradox version.
Now it’s your turn, dear readers, to voice your opinion on this divisive new Pokémon. Take part in our poll below, and don’t forget to share your thoughts on this ancient Pokémon in the comments.
Do you like Raging Bolt’s design? (503 votes)
- Yes, it’s amazing! It’s one of the best-looking Paradox Pokémon
- I like it, it’s unique
- It looks silly but I like that about it
- It’s fine? I don’t really like Paradox Pokémon
- I’m not a fan
- It’s an abomination – what have they done to Raikou?