Pokemon GO is adding the Dynamax and Gigantamax mechanic from Pokemon Sword and Shield, but those who don’t play the mainline games might not know what these are or how they work.
Starting with Pokemon X and Y, each generation of Pokemon games has introduced a new generational battle mechanic. This started with mega evolution in Pokemon X and Y and continues to this day with Terastalization in Scarlet and Violet. Filling this niche Pokemon Sword and Shield was Dynamax and Gigantamax.
The Pokemon World Championships’ Twitch stream dropped the bombshell that Dynamax and Gigantamax are coming to Pokemon GO. So how do these work? And what will this look and play like in Pokemon GO? Here’s everything we know.
How does Gigantamax and Dynamax work?
Gigantamax and Dynamax temporarily boosted the HP stat of Pokemon and gave them access to a unique set of stronger moves.
In Pokemon X and Y, Mega Evolution saw Pokemon transform and receive a boost to their stats and, sometimes, a new ability. Gigantamax and Dynamax from Sword and Shield worked quite differently.
Mega Evolution conspicuously never changed the HP of a Pokemon. On the other hand, Gigantamax and Dynamax offer no stat boosts outside of doubling the Pokemon’s HP. Alongside this defensive boost, Pokemon got an offensive boost with a more powerful set of moves that offered 100% guaranteed effects including stat boosts for the user, stat drops for opponents, and weather changes.
One of the key differences between Mega Evolution and its gen-eight successor is that Gigantamax and Dynamax don’t last the entire battle. In Pokemon Sword and Shield, players could empower one Pokemon for three turns. If that time expires or if the player recalls their Pokemon, the Pokemon returns to normal.
Finally, Players weren’t able to use this ability anywhere. While every other generational battle mechanic could be used regularly, players could only Gigantamax or Dynamax in select locations, something that Pokemon GO will look to replicate.
What’s the difference between Gigantamax and Dynamax?
Gigantamax is a special form of Dynamax that was exclusive to a handful of Pokemon in Sword and Shield.
Unlike Mega Evolution, every Pokemon was able to Dynamax. Gigantamax functions similarly, but with a few key differences.
As with Mega Evolution, Pokemon change their appearance when they Gigantamax. The other key difference is that Gigantamax Pokemon all have a unique signature move that no other Pokemon has access to. These different moves have unique effects that set them apart from the stock moves used by Dynamax Pokemon.
How do Gigantamax and Dynamax work in Pokemon GO?
Pokemon GO will introduce Gigantamax and Dynamax by tasking players to travel to “power spots” where they can battle and catch these massive Pokemon.
Pokemon Sword and Shield made Gigantamax and Dynamax feel special by making it so players could only do it in select locations. Pokemon GO will emulate this using its GPS functionality.
Players need to collect Max Particles from Power Spots, then find Power Spot Bosses. Players can battle these bosses, then capture their Gigantamax or Dynamax Pokemon in exchange for the Max Particles. Similar to gyms, players can drop off Pokemon at Power Spots. If they do, there’s a chance that wild Dynamax Pokemon will be able to appear.
This will largely see Gigantamax and Dynamax segregated from much of the battling in Pokemon GO, but it will give plenty of reason for fans to get off their couches. Make sure to stock up on items beforehand.
