Xerneas vs Yveltal: Which Legendary is stronger in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet VGC?

Pokemon Scarlet and Violet VGC's Regulation G has been out for quite some time now. With this, the meta has somewhat stabilized itself with the conclusion of the experimentation phase that occurs when a new season begins. This stage is where the metagame makes it easier for new players to come to the competitive scene.

The biggest addition in Regulation G is the allowance of one restricted Pokemon per player. These restricted creatures are typically mascot Legendaries like Xerneas and Yveltal. For players wanting to use the Kalos Legendaries on their battle team, it can be a difficult choice to pick just one. Here is everything to know when considering Yveltal or Xerneas.

Note: This article is subjective and reflects the writer's opinions.

---

The benefits of using Xerneas in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet VGC

Xerneas was once a metagame-defining Pokemon (Image via The Pokemon Company)

Veterans of the competitive scene for the Pokemon franchise may remember Xerneas being the best restricted Pokemon during the sixth generation, and it even carried forward into the seventh. However, following notorious power creep, there were a lot of counters for Xerneas, resulting in it falling off in popularity.

Xerneas can still be a potent choice in the right hands with its tried and true Power Herb set. Giving Xerneas the item allows its signature move, Geomancy, to charge in one turn instead of requiring two. This move sharply boosts Xerneas' Special Attack, Special Defense, and Speed stats. Afterward, Xerneas can sweep unprepared teams with Dazzling Gleam or Moonblast.

---

The benefits of using Yveltal in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet VGC

Yveltal saw somewhat of a comeback in Pokemon Sword and Shield but has yet to find a true spot in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet (Image via The Pokemon Company)

Yveltal may have debuted in a rough spot thanks to its weakness to the new Fairy element at the time, but it has found itself with a lot of useful tools that can help it in a utility-based metagame. It also receives a passive buff to its Dark-type damage thanks to its ability and the same-type attack bonus.

While Snarl is normally a great supporting move, Yveltal turns Snarl into a powerful spread move capable of dealing high damage while still debuffing its targets. With Yveltal having its set-up done for free, it can come into the match much stronger than its counterpart, which needs a turn and held item to use Geomancy.

---

Why Yveltal should be used over Xerneas in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet VGC?

Despite its history, Yveltal is managing to stay more relevant than Xerneas (Image via Game Freak)

While neither Legendary has any accessible usage stats in the current Regulation G in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, Yveltal should be preferred over Xerneas for the current metagame. Thanks to it having ability to support its team, Yveltal plays much better in a meta that revolves around synergy between teammates like the current one.

Snarl, Oblivion Wing, Taunt, and Foul Play is a very dangerous set that can debuff opponents, sustain Yveltal, punish stat boosts, and counter Rillaboom and Urshifu under optimal conditions. Yveltal's ability also boosts the damage of its teammate's Dark-type moves, so it works well with the Treasures of Ruin.