The Pokemon map never used to be especially detailed, in the bygone era of pixelated screens and minimal information. However, since Pokemon Legends Arceus, we’ve seen the appearance of a more detailed map to accompany the game. With this map comes new icons and a way to record locations across Paldea. Most of the icons are pretty easy to understand, some being locations for shops, raids, or fast travel. But one that might be a little more confusing is the question mark, normally in other games a question mark on a mini-map tends to be an unexplored area. In Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, that’s different. That brings us to our next question; what are the question marks on the map in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet?
Pokemon Scarlet And Violet: What Are Question Marks On The Map
![](https://thegamescabin.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Pikachu-Evolution-Pokemon-Scarlet-and-Violet.jpg)
All across the Paldea region, you’ll notice these question marks on the map. These are not in fact unexplored areas. Instead, they’re indications of a surge of Pokemon. These question marks indicate a massive surge of one type of Pokémon spawning at a specific point, similar to a Pokemon Go nest. There is no definite number on how many Pokémon can appear, but more often than not, it is 30 or more individuals. So as you might expect, these nests might be ideal for shiny hunting, optimising your chance of running into a wild shiny.
Although the question mark does not indicate the name of the Pokémon, you can navigate based on the habitats of each of them. For example, if you see a question mark in the southern part of Casseroya Lake, it might be a water type, but if it’s on a grassy field near Alfornada, it might be a flying type. But remember, each area is home to a large variety of Pokémon. So you can’t be sure until you visit that location. But if you’re keen on shiny hunting or updating your Pokedex, they’re worth checking out and making the most of.
For more Pokemon Scarlet and Violet guides, keep reading The Games Cabin.