A Guide to the Best New Pokémon in Sword & Shield

Pokémon Sword and Shield have introduced a huge collection of new creatures to catch and train. Including the 81 Pokémon in these latest titles, there are now almost 900 in the franchise. So catching them all has never been such a daunting task.

Even for dedicated fans, it can be intimidating to know where to start in Pokémon Sword and Shield. Deciding which Pokémon are the best to use as you begin your adventure in Galar is difficult. This is especially true when there are so many new features and mechanics to get familiar with. Fortunately, this guide will run you through the best of the new Pokémon so you don’t waste your Poké Balls.

Drednaw

Evolving from Chewtle at level 22, Drednaw is a water type Pokémon. While its earlier form has a goofy design, the evolution looks much better and resembles a snapping turtle.

One useful ability that Drednaw has is Shell Armor. This stops opposing Pokémon from being able to land any critical hits. It is also an incredibly useful creature to Dynamax as it is an effective tank. This means it can absorb a large amount of damage while dealing plenty out as well.

Scorbunny

Choosing your starter is one of the most agonizing decisions you’ll make in any Pokémon game. Sword and Shield are no different in that respect. But which is the best Pokémon out of the three starters on offer? You get to choose between Grookey (a Grass-type), Scorbunny (a Fire-type), and Sobble (a Water-type). While all three have advantages and disadvantages, Scorbunny is perhaps the best to pick.

After all, it has a type advantage against the first gym and fire is generally a safe bet to choose in Pokémon games. Scorbunny also proves useful in later gym battles as it is powerful against ice. There are also many other new Grass-type Pokémon to capture, making Grookey less appealing.