Pokémon Sword & Shield Out November, Includes Giant Pokémon Raid Battles, New Legendaries and More!
At yesterdays Nintendo Direct which was dedicated to both Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield, not only was the global release date revealed, but we also learned some quite interesting gameplay details and we got a glimpse of the legendary Pokémon that will feature in each of the games.
Firstly, let’s get the release date of the way as both Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield will release worldwide for the Nintendo Switch on November 15th.
However, it’s some of the Gym battle details that really caught my attention, as you can supersize your Pokémon during battles and it looks awesome. What is called Dynamax, during a Gym battle you can have the opportunity to turn your battling Pokémon into a super-sized giant, however, your Pokémon will revert to the normal size after three moves, so you’ll have to choose wisely when you Dynamax. Once super-sized, your Pokémon’s powers will also maxed out.
During the Nintendo Direct we also learned that both Sword and Shield will feature 4-player co-op Raids, which is a first for the main games in the series. During this Raid, you with three other players will battle it out against a giant Pokémon with the opportunity to catch it, should you win. Players can meet up in the Wilds at designated hubs for online or via local play.
We also got to see some new Pokémon such as Wooloo, a fluffy sheep, Gossifleur (Normal-type), a flower Pokémon with healing properties that evolves into Eldegoss. Drednaw (water/rock-type), a snappy Pokémon with a hard protective shell and finally Corvniknight (flying/steel-type).
At the very end of the trailer, we also got to see the two legendary Pokémon that will feature in each of Sword and Shield, Zacian who carries a sword, who has an uncanny resemblance to Great Grey Wolf Sif from Dark Souls, and Zamazenta, who bears shield-like armour.
We also got introduced to a few of the NPC’s that we’ll encounter during the game, namely Leon, who is regarded as the best Pokémon trainer in the Galar region and has never suffered a single defeat. His younger brother Hop, who aspires to be as good as his older brother and actually joins you on your journey at the very beginning of the game. We also get introduced to Professor Magnolia and her assistant, Sonia. Finally, Mile, an expert Gym leader that you’ll encounter during battles.
It’s also worth noting that Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield will also have a free-camera when exploring, so no more fixed cameras like previous games. Oh and finally, at launch you’ll be able to pick up Sword and Shield in special double packs or individually if you choose.
Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield will release for the Nintendo Switch on November 15th.