General Description
Pokémon Sword and Shield are the first main-series games for Generation 8. Released in November 2019, these games explore the Galar region, based on the real-world United Kingdom. The games don't deviate much from the Pokémon formula, but are the first to present a version of an open-world area called the Wild Area.
Sword and Shield also introduced the Dynamax mechanic. This battle-only mechanic allows a Pokémon to grow in size, receive a boost of HP (up to 2x if enough candies are used), and gain powerful moves with unique and interesting effects.
Additionally, friends can connect locally or via internet to challenge Dynamax Raids. These raids are cooperative and allow you to work together to defeat powerful Pokémon and then catch them!