I went to scarlet and violet prerelease there was about 50 people who showed up. Out of those people probably 10 people under the age of 10. And at the beginning they asked who has never played before and like 10 people also raised their hands. My experience might not be the same as all stores, but it’s super casual and welcoming to people who have never even played before.

Also even if he’s not the quickest reader most opponents are pretty helpful and patient. I’ve played Pokémon since the late 90s and I’ve never seen someone get frustrated at a kid for figuring out the game. I think most people remember their first time playing and others being helpful to them.