No more Z Moves and Mega-evolution in Pokémon Sword and Shield. Game Freak introduces, in this game, a new mechanics with Dynamax and Gigantamax forms. The purpose of this article is to guide you in the use of Dynamax and to help you understand what Dynamax/Gigantamax forms are.
The Dynamaxing phenomenon
When they are found in certain areas of Galar (Galar Arena or Pokémon Caves in the Wilderness), Pokémon can become gigantic. This is a phenomenon called Dynamax. This transformation becomes possible when the Dynamax Band starts to shine. All you have to do is press the Dynamax button!
Dynamax can only be activated once per battle and lasts only three turns! So you will have to use this to your advantage, at the right time, to change the course of the fight!
During this time, the Pokémon under the influence of Dynamax can use powerful Dynamax abilities called Max Moves. These cause additional effects that can inflict significant damage but also alterations in statistics or terrain, depending on the type of abilities used.
G-Max Moves
Here is the list of the effects of Dynamax max moves according to their type:
- Normal: decreases the target speed
- Electric: activate Electric Terrain
- Fighting: increases the attack of the launcher and its allies
- Grass: activate Grassy Terrain
- Flying: increases the speed of the launcher
- Ghost: lowers the special defense
- Fire: makes the sun appear
- Water: makes the rain fall
- Rock: a sandstorm starts
- Fairy: active Misty Terrain
- Steel: increases the launcher's defense
The special case of Gigantamax
Gigantamax is a special type of Dynamax that increases the size, power and changes the appearance of some Pokémon. In their Gigantamax form, Pokémon can also use a Gigantamax ability called G-Max Move, which can cause significant damage and other side effects. There is only one Gigantamax capacity per Gigantamax species.
Unlike Dynamax, which concerns all specimens in the game. Gigantamax is a special case that only affects some Pokémon. Even within the same species, the phenomenon is not widespread: only a few Pokémon have a Gigantamax form. These can only be captured during Dynamax Raids.
