Pokemon Sword and Shield players have had plenty of time to power through the core game and defeat every gym leader by this point, but that doesn't mean it's time to put the latest mainline Pokemon title back on the shelf. In addition to a very busy post-game schedule full of events (including a Pokemon Sword/Shield Easter activity), the title also some its first expansion content right around the corner.
With the approaching release of the Isle of Armor, Pokemon Sword and Shield players who haven't finished the main storyline yet may want to take a break from Animal Crossing and get back on that grind. The new content is scheduled to release in June and will offer a ton of new challenges, Pokemon, and locations for players to explore.
For trainers who haven't been following along with all of the Nintendo Directs and other gameplay footage releases, there may be a lot of information to catch up on. Not to worry though. We've got the biggest highlights and everything you need to know before the Isle of Armor releases right here...
When does The Isle of Armor release?
The first of Pokemon Sword and Shield's two upcoming expansions, The Isle of Armor, is scheduled for release in June 2020. At this point, there has not been any hints that the release date is going to be pushed back because of the coronavirus. Hopefully that stays the case and players are able to unlock and download the new content in when June rolls around.
Do I need to own Pokemon Sword or Shield to play Isle of Armor?
Yes. And, more specifically, there is a separate expansion bundle available for both Pokemon Sword and Pokemon Shield. Players who only own one of those two games should make sure that they purchase the expansion pass that matches the core game that they own.
What's the difference between the Sword and Shield expansion passes?
The Pokémon Sword Expansion Pass and Pokémon Shield Expansion Pass each offer version exclusive Pokémon and characters.
How much does the expansion bundle cost?
Currently, the expansion bundle that includes both Isle of Armor and The Crown Tundra is $45 in the Nintendo eShop.
Are there new Pokemon in The Isle of Armor content?
Yes. Players start out the expansion by picking up a new Fighting-type Pokemon, Kubfu, and there will be other new and returning Pokemon scattered throughout the island. The expansion will also include a new Legendary, as well. The original announced confirmed that between the two expansions, the Sword/Shield Pokedex will be growing by about 200 when all is said and done.
Will there be a new rival?
Yes. Once players visit the Isle of Armor, they will gain a new mentor, Mustard, and begin training to take down the island's own dojo. During this time players will be introduced to a new rival who is also working towards a similar goal. Sword and Shield players will encounter different rivals based on their core game.
Klara, the poison-type specialist, in Pok2mon Sword
Avery, a psychic-type trainer, in Pokemon Shield
Will there be new regional variants in the Isle of Armor?
Yes, the new content will include new regional variants like the Galarian Slowpoke who was originally revealed during the announcement of the expansion packs.
Should I finish the original game first?
Yes, it is recommended that players complete the main storyline before traveling to the regions available through the expansion pass. At this point, it has not been confirmed whether players who haven't completed the main storyline will actually be blocked off the new island or not. Based on the events that take place there, it definitely makes more sense to visit after completing the rest of the game, though.
Does Isle of Armor include more character customization options?
Yes. Players can expect to find addition outfits, hairstyles, bikes, and lots more when they visit the Isle of Armor and begin progressing through the new content.
What is the Isle of Armor setting like?
The Isle of Armor features various zones, but in general it seems to be a warm weather location, in comparison to the upcoming second expansion. Isle of Armor will include beaches, dunes, caves, and forests for players to explore as they battle other trainers and track down all of the new Pokemon available in the expansion content.
As the Isle of Armor release window draws closer, we are sure to learn even more about the upcoming content and what players can expect. With just two months to go, hopefully some additional details and more gameplay footage drops to help build up some excitement for the game at the beginning of the summer. Players can likely expect some in-game event tie-ins to help remind them that the new content is on the way, as well.
Be sure to check back in the near future for more Pokemon Sword and Pokemon Shield news, updates, and strategy guides. Until then, good luck out there, trainers!
Pokemon Sword and Shield are available now exclusively for the Nintendo Switch. Isle of Armor releases June 30, 2020.