Like many recent installments in the series, Pokémon Sword and Shield introduced special battle mechanics unique to the Galar region. Similar to Mega Evolution introduced in Pokémon X and Y and the quirky Z-Moves of Sun and Moon, Dynamax and Gigantamax mechanics allow players to super-size their Pokémon companion in battle and deal devastating damage to opponents. However, the two types of form changes aren't the same, with all Pokémon capable of Dynamaxing, and only a select few possessing the ability to Gigantamax.
To use Dynamax or Gigantamax boost abilities in Pokémon Sword and Shield, players must be over a special location called a Power Spot. These areas, which possess the large amount of the Galar Particles needed for Dyamanx and Gigantamax, are found in locations like Pokémon Gyms and Max Dens. Because of this, players can't use the ability in any battle around the Galar map, including both wild Pokémon encounters and trainer challenges. This is a big change from Mega Evolution and Z-Moves, which while restricted by required items, could be used once per battle regardless of location.
Dynamax and Gigantamax don't require different methods when in battle. Once the player's Dynamax Band lights up, the option can be selected from the attack menu, opening a new list of "Max" attacks. Like Mega Evolution, the transformation happens when the attack round begins. All Pokémon can Dynamax in Sword and Shield, expanding any species to a massive version of its normal form. This form gains both an HP and attack boosts, with the effectiveness of the bonus dependent on the Pokémon's Dynamax Level, which is raised by giving it Dynamax Candy outside of battle.
Pokémon Must Be Caught With The Gigantamax Factor Or Given Max Soup
However, a special selection of Pokémon species in Sword and Shield can be caught with the Gigantamax Factor. Currently, there are 33 Gigantamax capable Pokémon in Sword and Shield for players to catch and train. Pokémon can't be caught in the overworld with the Gigantamax Factor, but instead must be encountered during a Max Raid battle, or the ability must be enabled using the DLC The Isle of Armor.
After progressing in the DLC, players will be taught how to make Max Soup at the dojo located in the Isle of Armor. This soup can both give and remove the Gigantamax ability. While this is a quick way to gain access to the alternate forms for battle, it may also remove the excitement of seeking the special, Gigantamax-capable Pokémon in Max Raids. However, players can choose to ignore Max Soup if they are interested in collecting every form through regular gameplay.
At this time, it doesn't seem likely that any further Gigantamax capable Pokémon will be added to Sword and Shield. The release of Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl may mean that additional updates and DLC for Pokémon Sword and Shield may be at its end. Despite this, the current list of Gigantamax-capable Pokémon, and the excitement of standard Dynamax, make battling in the Galar region an exciting and satisfying experience for fans.