Summary

• This type wasn't used for Paradox Pokémon, likely because it's not special enough compared to other types.
• Another theory behind the absence of this type is related to animal evolution and the replacement of the type as creatures adapted to fit the modern world.
• It's possible that this type could be added in the future, but it might require proper justification in the game's lore.

Despite Pokémon Scarlet and Violet now having a Paradox Pokémon for all but one type, it is better not to dwell too much on why this type was excluded. Paradox Pokémon are a welcome and interesting addition to the series, showing players how certain Pokémon would look in the past or future. Even though they will likely be left behind when the next generation comes around, their presence in the series won't be forgotten. However, this begs the question of why one specific type was left out, even if its answer is simple.

Though it is disappointing that Paradox forms followed the recent trend of title-exclusive Pokémon, both Scarlet and Violet did a good job of adding more Paradox Pokémon in the DLCs. Scarlet added in past forms of the Legendary Beasts from Johto, while Violet received future forms of the Swords of Justice from Unova. Every Paradox form was also a dual type, which makes it strange that one type was never added at all.

Paradox Pokémon Exclude Normal-Type

Normal was the one type not used by any Paradox Pokémon currently known in the series. This may not be the biggest loss since the type has few strengths, but it is still an odd thing to be the sole type unused. So far, the most agreed-upon theory is due to the Normal-type not being special enough to warrant use on a Paradox Pokémon. This makes the most sense, since the first three to four generations had rather everyday creatures using the type.

This trend has mostly continued since, but some outliers have existed, like Porygon. This sort of precedent has somewhat opened the door for Normal-type to be used for Pokémon like Porygon that don't fit any of the other types. Regardless, the idea that Normal-type is not special enough fits the answer and doesn't overcomplicate things. However, this is not the only theory as to why this one type was excluded from Paradox forms.

The Normal-Type Evolution Theory

Though more complicated and not as concrete, the other popular theory as to why Normal-type is missing from Paradox forms is due to animal evolution. Since Normal-type is mainly used for everyday animals, especially mammals, it would make sense that prehistoric creatures or dinosaurs would not be that type. Hence, when these creatures ended up evolving to fit the modern-day Pokémon players are used to, they replaced their Normal-type. This also works with future forms, as when these Pokémon evolved or altered, the new cyborg forms are anything but normal.

This theory fits since Jigglypuff and Cyclizar are Normal-types in their non-paradox forms.

This theory, while solid on a basic level, opens up some questions about why and how these Pokémon evolved. This change could have occurred because the Pokémon needed to survive, or it was a matter of convenience to fit into a world that humans were starting to have more control over. The theory would be a fun experiment into the evolution of Pokémon over time, but is more work than is needed to answer why Normal-type wasn't used for Paradox forms.

What Defines A Normal-Type In Pokémon

Though mentioned briefly before, what kind of features make a Pokémon Normal-type? Besides being a mammal or warm-blooded bird, the design and powers of a Pokémon fit into its type. This can include not having the features or ability to use other type abilities. A perfect example of this is Eevee, as it has no features that would show it being another type. Move-wise, while every Pokémon can learn some moves from types they are not, they are not natural to them and don't receive the STAB bonus.

In contrast, a Staraptor has the properties to make it a Normal-type, but also the qualities of a bird that make it a Flying-type. Essentially, most Pokémon could qualify to be a Normal-type, but have other features that make them fit into the other types better. This could have also affected which Pokémon were chosen to have Paradox forms made due to having the easiest time warranting not using even the best Normal-type Pokémon.

Could A Normal-Type Paradox Pokémon Be Added?

The chances are low, but not impossible a Normal-type Paradox Pokémon could be added to the series. Content updates for Scarlet and Violet are likely done, but there is a chance these forms could carry on in the future. The evidence for this is that other form gimmicks like Mega-Evolution and regional forms have carried over to other generations. Granted, Mega-Evolution only reached two generations, but it did prove that Gamefreak is not against the idea of letting form gimmicks continue.

The tricky thing with trying to carry Paradox forms over would be with the lore of the series. These forms are only around in Scarlet and Violet due to both professors' actions in Area Zero. Thus, moving to a new region without this area/ability would make it hard to justify their presence. Though it is more than likely that their presence, along with new Paradox forms, would be a welcome addition to the game.

Overall, the lack of Normal-type Paradox Pokémon is not a huge loss, as the design quality may look a little bland. The physical appeal of Pokémon is half the battle when it comes to pleasing fans, and it is much easier to manage than balancing the power levels of each. With all the forms being the more visually appealing types, the results came out that much better. Due to this, players can now dwell on why the Normal-type wasn't used for Paradox Pokémon in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet and simply enjoy the time-warped catchable creatures that were created.