New Features and Pokemon in Pokemon Sword and Shield
In a recent Pokemon Direct online presentation, Game Freak unveiled exciting new game features, native Pokemon from the Galar region, and the launch date for Pokemon Sword and Pokemon Shield. These highly anticipated additions to the Pokemon video game franchise will be exclusively available on Nintendo Switch starting November 15, 2019.
The Dynamax Phenomenon
One of the unique features of the Galar region is the Dynamax phenomenon. In specific locations, Pokemon have the ability to grow to gigantic sizes during battles. This phenomenon plays a crucial role in battles throughout the region. Pokemon from the Galar region can Dynamax, which significantly increases their power and strength. Trainers can only Dynamax their Pokemon once per battle, and it lasts for three turns. To Dynamax a Pokemon, trainers need to possess a Dynamax Band.
When a Pokemon Dynamaxes, all of its moves become special Max Moves. These Max Moves are incredibly powerful and can even trigger additional effects. For example, the Normal-type Max Move, Max Strike, not only deals damage but also lowers the opponent’s Speed stat. The specific Max Moves available to a player’s Pokemon depend on the types of moves they knew prior to Dynamaxing.
Pokemon Gyms
The Galar region is home to Pokemon Gyms, which are located in stadiums throughout the area. Each Gym attracts trainers who specialize in a specific type of Pokemon. To become the Champion, players must defeat the Gym Leader in each Pokemon Gym. These battles between trainers and Gym Leaders often involve intense showdowns between Dynamax Pokemon. Excitingly, matches in the Gym Stadiums are broadcasted on television throughout the Galar region, drawing large audiences. The Grass-type Gym Leader, Milo, is particularly popular among trainers. He enjoys endurance matches using Grass-type Pokemon and always emphasizes the enjoyment of battles.
Exploring the Wild Area and Max Raid Battles
The Wild Area is a vast expanse of untamed wilderness that connects various towns and cities in the Galar region. It is teeming with a wide variety of Pokemon, offering unique encounters based on factors like weather and location. Trainers can freely explore the Wild Area, controlling the camera to search for Pokemon and valuable items.
A new battle format called Max Raid Battles takes place in the Wild Area. In Max Raid Battles, the player teams up with three other trainers to take on a powerful wild Dynamax Pokemon. If the trainers successfully defeat the wild Dynamax Pokemon, they will have an opportunity to catch it. However, capturing it won’t be easy, as these wild Dynamax Pokemon retain their enormous size and possess unique powers. The key to victory is close teamwork, although only one trainer can Dynamax their Pokemon at a time during the battle. Max Raid Battles can become even more enjoyable when connecting with friends to battle together via Nintendo Switch Online. If enough trainers aren’t available, support trainers will automatically join the player’s team to help in the battle.
The People and Culture of the Galar Region
As players embark on their journey through the Galar region in Pokemon Sword and Shield, they will encounter various unique locations where Pokemon and people coexist. Many companies in the Galar region embrace the inclusion of Pokemon as part of their workforce, highlighting the significant role Pokemon play in the region. Pokemon battles are