Generation VIII: Galar, Hisui and Dynamax

Updated on 2026-09-02

Generation VIII is the most scattered in the series: three quite different experiences.

Sword/Shield (Galar)

• Dynamax and Gigantamax: for three turns, a Pokémon becomes giant, with doubled HP and "Max" moves that also apply field effects. Gigantamax is a special visual form for some species.
• Wild Area: the first semi-open area in the main series, with dynamic weather and raids.
• Pokédex cut: only a fraction of Pokémon could be transferred — "Dexit". The DLCs (Isle of Armor, Crown Tundra) brought many back.

Brilliant Diamond/Shining Pearl

1:1 remakes of Diamond/Pearl (Gen IV), with chibi graphics. Faithful but conservative.

Legends: Arceus (Hisui)

The big departure: a semi-open world, real-time capture without entering a battle, no gyms. It introduced Hisuian forms and new evolutions (Wyrdeer, Kleavor, Ursaluna, Sneasler). Moves gained Agile and Strong styles.

Which to play

• Want the modern classic experience: Sword/Shield + DLCs.
• Want something different: Legends: Arceus.
• A Sinnoh fan: BDSP, knowing it plays very traditionally.

Team (Sword/Shield)

• Starter: Grookey (Rillaboom, Grass, Grassy Surge) or Scorbunny (Cinderace, Fire, kicks fireballs).
• Corviknight (via Rookidee): Flying/Steel, the game's flying wall.
• Toxapex (via Mareanie): Poison/Water, one of the most annoying defensive walls to break.
• Dragapult (via Dreepy): a Dragon/Ghost pseudo-legendary, blisteringly fast.

Full list on the Generation VIII page.