Pokémon Sword vs. Pokémon Shield Similarities, Differences, and Full Comparison

In the world of Pokémon, choosing between two seemingly similar but distinct titles is a decision every Trainer faces. Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield, are games for the Nintendo Switch which are not an exception to this rule. Both of the games are set in the expansive Galar region. Both games also offer similar narratives, and share many of the wondrous creatures and key characters. However, as is the tradition for this world-renowned franchise, there are also differences. These differences in gyms, characters, and Pokémon create an ecosystem for trading and experiencing the world in a unique way. 

This comprehensive guide aims to showcase the key similarities and differences between Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield. Whether you’re looking to make an informed decision between the two or simply wish to understand what makes each game special, we’ve got you covered. 

Similarities

Both Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield are part of the eighth generation of the Pokémon video game series and were released for the Nintendo Switch in 2019. They share the same basic gameplay mechanics, involving the capturing and training of Pokémon creatures to battle other trainers within the fictional Galar region, which is inspired by the United Kingdom. The main storyline, locations, and core game mechanics, such as battling, trading, and exploring, are largely identical between the two games. Both versions also feature new gameplay elements like the Wild Area, a large open-world setting with free camera movement, and Dynamaxing, which allows Pokémon to grow in size during battles under specific conditions.

Gyms and leaders

Many of the gyms, gym leaders, and achievable badges in the two games are also the same. As the locations in the game are mostly identical, you’ll find the same gym leaders in the same parts of the world. These also award the same badges and uniforms. These include the following:

Main Story Characters

As players engage in the storyline of both Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield, they’ll encounter various characters. Many of these key characters in the main storyline are also identical. The following characters are found in both games and serve the same purpose:

Gameplay Features

The games also share some of the most important features and additions to the 2019 Pokémon titles. These add to the gameplay of the games, creating a unique experience. Here are some of the features that are included in both titles:

Differences

While the two have a lot in common, the games are not entirely identical. In fact, like many other Pokémon games, they have version-exclusive content designed to encourage trading and interaction between players. Each game has specific Pokémon that can only be caught in that version, along with certain gym leaders that differ between Sword and Shield. These version-exclusive aspects are meant to offer a slightly different experience depending on which game is chosen, but they don’t offer major alterations to the main story or gameplay mechanics. Despite these differences, the two games offer a largely similar experience and are fundamentally built on the same game engine. Differences simply offer distinct flavors of the same core game.

Exclusive Pokémon to Sword

Exclusive to Pokémon Shield

Exclusive Gyms

While most of the gyms are identical, including the locations, leaders, badges, and uniforms, there are also some differences. 

While most of the gyms are identical, including the locations, leaders, badges, and uniforms, there are also some differences. 

Stow-on-Side Gym – Sword

Circhester Gym – Sword

Stow-on-Side Gym – Shield

Circhester Gym – Shield

Expansion Differences

The expansions for Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield, The Isle of Armor and The Crown Tundra, offer additional content to the base games. Both expansions introduce new areas to explore, each with updated storylines and characters. They also add new Pokémon, some of which are exclusive to either Sword or Shield, including new Galarian forms and legendary Pokémon. 

Isle of Armor Exclusive Returning Pokémon in Pokémon Sword

Isle of Armor Exclusive Returning Pokémon in Pokémon Shield

Crown Tundra Version-Exclusive Pokémon in Pokémon Sword

Crown Tundra Version-Exclusive Pokémon in Pokémon Shield

Dynamax Adventures Exclusive Legendary Pokémon in Pokémon Sword

Dynamax Adventures Exclusive Legendary Pokémon in Pokémon Shield

Pros and Cons

As with most simultaneous Pokémon releases, there isn’t really a way to determine which is better overall. It largely depends on the players’ preferences towards specific key characters and perhaps more importantly the exclusive gyms and Pokémon available on each version. By reviewing the information we’ve included above, you’ll be able to determine which of the games would better suit your style of play.