With E3 just around the corner, Nintendo has released a new Nintendo Direct dedicated to Pokemon Sword and Shield. Clocking in at roughly 15 minutes, we got info on new Pokemon, the Galar region, and new gameplay elements. Additionally, the games will be released on November 15, 2019.
The Galar Region
Pokemon Sword and Shield are set in the Galar region, an area that takes inspiration from places like London. Like previous games in the series, players get to choose the gender they’ll get to play as and their starter Pokemon.
One of the new gameplay features is Dynamax, where a Pokemon grows giant in size. Kazumasa Iwao, Planning Director for the games, says that pokemon can Dynamax in order to grow larger and increase their attack power. Additionally, it can be used only once in battle.
The video showcases the different environments in the game and reveals that players can move the in-game camera in any direction they want. Traditional Pokemon battles return and stadium battles have been included as well.
New Pokemon and Dynamaxing
Players can also connect online and fight Dynamax pokemon in the wild. Additionally, four players can fight these larger pokemon together in a raid, a first for the Pokemon series. Additonally, a Nintendo Switch Online membership is required to play online.
Next up, we get a new look at some of the Pokemon that’ll be in the game. James Turner, Art Director for the games, shows off Wooloo, Gossifleur, Drednaw, and Corviknight. Additionally, Gossifleur is among the many Pokemon that can evolve and it evolves to Eldegoss.
New Characters and Legendaries
We’re also introduced to new characters in the game. Leon is known as the greatest trainer in the Galar region. Hop dreams to become a pokemon champion and his journey starts on the same day as the players. Lastly, we meet Professor Magnolia and her granddaughter Sonia.
Last but not least, we get our first look at Zacian and Zamazaenta, the new legendary pokemon for Sword and Shield. Currently, it’s not known what role they’ll play in the games.
That’s all for this Nintendo Direct. Pokemon Sword and Shield release for the Nintendo Switch on November 15, 2019. Additionally, a bundle will be available containing both games.