Screen Rant

  • Pokémon Sword & Shield will make some much-needed upgrades to the series' online play. 1 / 7

  • Competitive play in Pokémon Sword & Shield will take place in Battle Stadium... 2 / 7

  • ...which will introduce a new ranked system that matches players with opponents. 3 / 7

    Gym Leader Allister Pokemon Sword Shield Vertical

  • Rankings will carry over through seasons and match players with opponents of similar skill... 4 / 7

    Gym Leader Bea Pokemon Sword Shield Vertical

  • ...making competitive practice easier while giving newer players a better chance to learn the game's intricacies. 5 / 7

    Pokemon Sword Shield Max Raid Battle Vertical

  • There will also be rental Pokémon available in both competitive and casual modes. 6 / 7

    Pokemon Sword Shield Milo Vertical

  • It's a huge step forward for a series that has sorely lacked competitive infrastructure, and Pokémon Sword & Shield will be better off for it. 7 / 7

    Pokemon Sword Shield Gym Vertical