You can also discover various Pokemon trainers who will engage you in battle, as well as challenging “DynaMax” dens where you battle gigantic Pokemon for big rewards. In these expansive areas, you're able to freely roam about, battling and capturing wild Pokemon in order to strengthen your team. Large, open-ended “wild” areas break up the otherwise linear paths throughout the Galar Region. While a large chunk of Sword and Shield is similar to other Pokemon games, there are a handful of new additions that help spice up the gameplay. The classic battle system revolves around elemental strengths and weaknesses, so recognizing enemy weak points becomes crucial as you advance.

There are various Gym challenges that mark your progress throughout the adventure, each one themed around a different type of Pokemon. You'll travel through luminous forests, open plains, and icy tundras, discovering new species of Pokemon and leveling up their abilities. Along the way, you'll meet a cast of memorable characters, including the seven respected Gym Leaders. After customizing your character and choosing one of the three elemental “starter” Pokemon, you'll set out into the Galar Region to capture new Pokemon and build up your battle team. Much like the rest of the Pokemon franchise, Sword and Shield are a mixture of open-world exploration and turn-based combat gameplay. In addition to the Gym Challenge, a mysterious and powerful Pokemon lurks in the forest, beckoning to be discovered and tamed. Along with your best friend Hop, you'll travel across the Galar Region competing in the Gym Challenge, a prestigious set of Pokemon battles that take place in giant arenas.

Your journey starts in the small town of Postwick, where you, a bright-eyed child with dreams of becoming a star Pokemon trainer, prepares to leave home. Prominent Pokemon trainers are recognized across the land, with many children hoping to one day become Pokemon Champion. Citizens in the Galar Region are enamored with Pokemon battling, treating it like a massive sport. Your adventure in Pokemon Sword and Shield takes place in the Galar Region, a lovely and varied land bustling with joy and excitement.

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