Gigantamax Changes, New Pokémon & Characters Showcased For ‘Pokémon Sword & Shield’

Pokémon Sword and Shield are two of the biggest titles coming to the Nintendo Switch this year, and they will mark the beginning of the multimedia franchise’s eighth generation. The Pokémon Company posted a new trailer for the pair on Monday, showcasing new characters and Pokémon alike.

Dynamaxing had previously been established as Sword and Shield‘s defining mechanic (just as Mega Evolution and Z-Moves defined their respective generations), but certain Pokémon have the ability to advance this technique into Gigantamaxing. Performing a Dynamax on a Pokémon will cause it to grow in size, increasing its strength. However, certain creatures caught in Max Raid Battles will be able to Gigantax, which alters their appearance and further changes their battle performance. (Given how Charizard is prominently featured in the game on virtue of being Champion Leon’s ace, I expect the iconic dragon will have a Gigantamax form.)

Four new Pokémon were also introduced too. Aleremie, a Fairy-type modeled after whipped cream, is one Pokémon with the capacity to Gigantax, transforming into a giant cake when it does so. Yamper is the previously seen Electric-type puppy, and it has a new ability called Ball Fetch. As the name implies, if you toss a Poké Ball and it fails to capture a wild critter, Yamper will deliver it back to you. Rolycoly, a coal-based creature with glowing red eyes, is a new Rock-type. Finally, we were introduced to Tyranitar’s nemesis, the Steel/Dragon-type Duraludon.

Recalling Black and White, some Gym Leaders will not be shared between Sword and Shield. Bea is Sword‘s Fighting-type specialist, whereas those who play Shield will challenge Ghost–type enthusiast Allister. The trailer also introduces the Galar Pokémon League’s chairman, Rose, and his secretary, Oleana.

Pokémon Sword and Shield will launch on November 15, a week following the release of a Nintendo Switch Lite modeled after their cover legendaries.