Pokemon is indubitably one of the most iconic franchises in all of gaming, as it's a household name among even non-gamers. Many gamers grew up on Pokemon, and to this day, continue to play every generation and game that comes out. Pokemon Scarlet and Violet is that new set of games, and when they release in November, it stands to reason fans old and new will flock to them.
However, this presence in the industry isn't without its drawbacks. Some Pokemon fans believe the games are too heavily marketed and designed for children, even if they are designated family-friendly at their core. Many fans believe Pokemon games have become too easy, hold players' hands throughout it all, and haven't evolved with the times, potentially evidenced by the fact that Pokemon Scarlet and Violet are the first open-world games in 9 generations. All of this is, of course, up for debate, but one controversial element about the "Pokemon games are too easy" debate may rear its head again.
The EXP Share has long been part of Pokemon video games, beginning as a way to confer extra experience to a single Pokemon and by Sun and Moon becoming a toggleable way to give all Pokemon in the party XP. Pokemon Sword and Shield included the EXP Share too, but in what amounted to tons of controversy, it could not be turned off in someone so chose. The recent remakes of Pokemon Diamond and Pearl did not allow for it to be toggled off either. Now, rumors suggest the EXP share will return in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, which comes as no surprise, but it would seem that it cannot be toggled off either. This means it will likely operate as it did in Pokemon Sword and Shield and BDSP.
A recent tweet by Pokemon S/V leaker Blaines suggests that EXP is "forced on by default," and while this doesn't necessarily mean it can't be toggled off, it highly suggests it. The writing was already on the walls. With EXP Share being forced on in Pokemon Sword, Shield, Brilliant Diamond, and Shining Pearl, there's really no way it won't be a permanent mechanic in the new generation.
It should be noted that the EXP Share's impact on Pokemon Scarlet and Violet's open world will be interesting to see, unlike the guided adventures of the previous titles. It would seem that Pokemon Scarlet and Violet doesn't feature level scaling, and because of this, perhaps the EXP Share will find a more fair use and a better reception in the new generation of games. Fans should keep in mind this is only a rumor for now, but it wouldn't be surprising to see it proven legit.
Pokemon Scarlet and Violet release on November 18 on Nintendo Switch.