Pokémon Shield is available in both physical and digital formats.
Pokémon Shield supports both local and online multiplayer, including cooperative Max Raid Battles where players can team up locally or online.
Pokémon Shield focuses on exploring the Galar region and the Wild Area, catching and trading Pokémon, choosing one of three starter partner Pokémon, and features Dynamaxing plus cooperative Max Raid Battles against giant Pokémon.
Max Raid Battles pit players against giant, powerful Dynamax Pokémon that can be caught if defeated, and players with a Dynamax Band can Dynamax their own Pokémon during battles.
At the start of the game, players can choose one of three partner Pokémon: Grookey, Scorbunny, or Sobble.
Online features require a Nintendo Switch Online membership (sold separately), a Nintendo Account, and an internet connection; availability of online services may vary by country.
The bundle includes the base Pokémon Shield game plus the Expansion Pass, which provides The Isle of Armor and The Crown Tundra, hundreds of additional Pokémon as they are released, and some in-game apparel—while preserving existing save data.
