Game Freak held a Pokémon Direct today and showed off a lot of gameplay, features, and even the Pokémon Sword and Shield release date.
Pokémon Sword and Shield Release Date
During the Pokémon Direct today, Game Freak announced the release date for Pokémon Sword and Shield which is November 15, 2019. Game Freak also announced several features and we have them listed below.
Dynamax Pokémon
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Pokémon in Sword and Shield have a unique ability that is only seen in the Galar Region called Dynamax. Dynamax Pokémon becomes larger and stronger for a brief period of time.
Trainers can only Dynamax their Pokémon once during the battle and will return to its regular form after three turns. Trainers who possess a Dynamax Band can Dynamax their Pokémon.
All the moves of a Dynamax Pokémon will turn into special Max Moves that can trigger additional effects. The Max Moves are determined by the types of moves they knew before Dynamaxing.
Pokémon Gyms
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Like in previous Pokémon games, gym battles are found in stadiums throughout the Galar Region and attract expert trainers in a specific type of Pokémon. To become Champion, players will need to defeat the Gym Leader.
Pokémon Gym battles are broadcast throughout the Galar Region and can include clashes between Dynamax Pokémon. Your skills as a trainer will be significantly tested.
Wild Area
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The Wild Area in Pokémon Sword and Shield is full of wild Pokémon and connects to different towns and cities in the Galar Region. Pokémon in the Wild Area will change depending on the weather and location, giving players a chance to encounter all types of Pokémon.
While in the Wild Area, players will be able to control the camera, so they can explore around them and search for Pokémon and items. Moving the camera in all directions will ensure you won’t miss anything.
Max Raid Battles
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New to Pokémon Sword and Shield are Max Raid Battles. Max Raid Battles take place in the Wild Area and allow players to team up with three other players to battle and catch a Dynamax Pokémon.
Taking down a Dynamax Pokémon won’t be easy as it will be in its Dynamax form the entire battle. The key to victory is teamwork as only one of the trainers involved will be able to Dynamax their Pokémon.
Players will be able to join in Max Raid Battles via Nintendo Switch Online service with friends. If other trainers aren’t available, support trainers will automatically be added.
Pokémon of the Galar Region
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During Pokémon Direct new Pokémon were introduced that players will encounter in the Galar Region.
- Gossifleur – A flowering Grass-type Pokémon that evolves into Eldegoss.
- Wooloo – A Normal-type sheep Pokémon.
- Corviknight – A Flying and Steel-type Pokémon.
- Drednaw – A Water and Rock-type biting Pokémon.
Legendary Pokémon
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In true Pokémon form, the Pokémon Direct ended with a look at two new Legendary Pokémon who also grace the cover of Pokémon Sword and Shield.
- Zacian – Its shining blades can cut through anything.
- Zamazenta – Its gleaming shield can turn back any attack.
The story for Pokémon Sword and Shield still hasn’t been announced, so we aren’t sure what role these Legendary Pokémon will play. Pokémon Sword and Shield release on November 15, 2019, for Nintendo Switch.