Pokémon Direct announces Pokémon Sword and Shield

During today’s Pokémon Direct, it was announced that two new games – Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield – are coming to the Nintendo Switch.

Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield are the latest two instalments in the main Pokémon franchise. They’re the first mainline games to be on the Nintendo Switch and they mark the start of Pokémon’s eighth generation.

The trailer was dropped during the Pokémon Direct presentation, showing a whole new world and three new starters.

The three new starters are Grookey, the chimp Grass-type starter, who is said to be a mischievous Pokémon full of boundless curiosity.

Next up is Scorbunny, the Fire-type rabbit. Scorbunny is always running about, bursting with energy.

Last but not least is the Water-type lizard Sobble. Sobble is a bit timid, shooting out attacks as it hides itself in the water.

The games are set in the Galar region, an expansive place with ‘diverse environments’ including idyllic countryside, contemporary cities, vast plains, and snow-covered mountains. Galar appears to be heavily inspired by Great Britain.

Sword and Shield both have a 3D cel-shaded art style similar to Let’s Go Pikachu and Let’s Go Eevee, effortlessly bringing the Pokémon series into the modern age.

You can watch the Pokémon Direct presentation here and the new trailer here.

Pokémon Sword and Shield are due out worldwide in late 2019.

Source: Pokémon Direct and YouTube.