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Nintendo has just wrapped up its latest Nintendo Direct broadcast, giving us some more details on the upcoming Pokemon Sword and Pokemon Shield including some new mechanics and, crucially, a release date.
The fifteen minute video, which we've embedded below, shows off a major new feature in the 'Wild Area' between cities. Unlike previous games, this turns Pokemon from its more traditional top down state to an almost Breath-of-the-Wild-like 3D roaming adventure, with changing weather conditions that also effect what Pokemon appear there.
The Wild Area is also a place where it seems you can connect with other trainers, with another new mechanic in the form of Max Raid Battles. Taking a cue from Pokemon Go, you and three other trainers must team up to take down an especially powerful Pokemon. Elsewhere, Pokemon can also now 'Dynamax' – making them appear absolutely massive and giving them a boost in stats for three turns before returning to normal.
Also shown off were some of the new characters in the game, as well as some of the new Pokemon including Woolo, Gossifleur, Drednaw and Corviknight; all of which have a distinctly British theme fitting for the game's Galar region. Finally, new Legendary Pokemon Zacian and Zamazenta who have themes based around the Sword and Shield of the games' respective titles.
Finally, the Direct reveals a release date, which means we can say Pokemon Sword and Pokemon Shield will release exclusively for the Nintendo Switch on November 15 worldwide.
