Pokémon is big business, and the excitement for the next big entry in the series, Pokémon Sword and Shield is palpable. So, with that said, here is everything you need to know about the upcoming titles so far.
It’s out this year!
November 15th, in fact! Once again, specific Pokémon will be limited to each version of the game, so true fans will want to buy both to complete their Pokédex. For eager gamers, you can pre-order the game on Switch right here.
Watch the Pokémon Direct in full here:
Random encounters are no more… we think
Much like Let’s Go Pikachu and Eevee before it, Sword and Shield appear to have removed random encounters – a staple from the legacy games that slowly infuriated fans.
While not explicitly confirmed, it appears that Pokémon will be visible and approachable in the wild, however in some instances an exclamation mark may pop up instead – preventing you from knowing what the exact Pokémon will be.
A new Dynamax mechanic means giant Pokémon
In certain locations in Sword and Shield’s Galar region, Pokémon can be Dynamaxed – essentially turning both them and their attacks into larger, more powerful spectacles.
There are two caveats to Dynamaxing however – it can only be used once per battle, and your Pokémon will return to its regular size after three turns. So choosing when and how to employ this tactic will be critical.
You have a new Rival
It wouldn’t be Pokémon unless you have a rival who mimics your journey, so Sword and Shield is no exception. This time that rival is Hop, the younger brother of beloved Pokémon trainer Leon, who also just so happens to be the current Champion of the Galar region.
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Meet your new legendries
Already seen the cover art to the game? Well unsurprisingly, those wolf-like creatures are your new Pokémon Legendries. Zamazenta will pack a shield-like design which almost blends into a lion-like mane, while Zacian holds a large sword in its mouth, ready to swing it in order to inflict damage.
There are Raid Battles
An addition that borrows some elements from Pokémon Go, Raid Battles will pit four Pokémon trainers against a single Dynamaxed foe.
Ideally, you’ll want to complete these battles with your friends to coordinate strategy, but if you can’t, AI characters will be subbed in where needed. Once you defeat the giant beast, you’ll then have the opportunity to catch it.
