Can You Catch Eternatus in Any Pokeball? The Definitive Guide
Yes, you absolutely can catch Eternatus in any Pokeball in Pokemon Sword and Shield. It’s a guaranteed catch, meaning the game’s code ensures you succeed regardless of the Pokeball used. This removes the usual tension and resource management of catching Legendaries, allowing you to focus on enjoying the climax of the main story! Now, let’s delve deeper into this fascinating mechanic and answer some frequently asked questions.
Digging Deeper: The 100% Catch Rate Explained
The 100% catch rate for Eternatus is a deliberate design choice by Game Freak. It’s not a glitch or an oversight; it’s an integral part of the narrative and gameplay experience. Eternatus represents a significant threat to the Galar region, and capturing it signifies a major turning point in the story. Imagine battling this behemoth, only to have it break free from your Pokeball repeatedly. Frustration would replace the feeling of triumph.
By guaranteeing the catch, the developers ensure that players feel empowered and successful in their quest to save the region. It allows players to focus on the story and the satisfying conclusion of a challenging battle without worrying about resource management or the dreaded “shake, shake, escape” sequence.
Why a Guaranteed Catch?
The decision to make Eternatus a guaranteed catch likely stems from several factors:
- Narrative Impact: Catching Eternatus marks a critical point in the storyline. Failing to catch it would disrupt the narrative flow and diminish the player’s sense of accomplishment.
- Player Experience: A 100% catch rate eliminates frustration and allows players to feel powerful after defeating a tough opponent.
- Game Design: It simplifies the encounter, focusing on the battle mechanics rather than the capture mechanics.
15 Eternatus FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered
Here’s a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) to further clarify everything you need to know about catching Eternatus:
1. What happens if I try to use a Master Ball on Eternatus anyway?
Nothing special happens! While the Master Ball guarantees a catch on any Pokemon, using it on Eternatus is essentially overkill. You’ll still catch Eternatus without issue, but you’ll have wasted your valuable Master Ball. It’s better saved for those pesky roaming Legendaries or Shiny Pokemon!
2. Can I fail to catch Eternatus if my party is full?
This is where things get interesting. The game is programmed to force you to catch Eternatus. So, if your party and all your boxes in the PC are full, the game may potentially crash or encounter an error. This is a failsafe to ensure the narrative progresses as intended. This is because, due to the guaranteed capture, the game hasn’t accounted for the possibility of a failure state.
3. Is Shiny Eternatus obtainable in the main game?
No. While there was a special distribution event where players could receive a Shiny Eternatus via a code from participating retailers like GameStop, the Eternatus you encounter in the main story of Sword and Shield is not Shiny-locked, meaning it cannot be Shiny under any circumstances.
4. Is Eternatus considered a Legendary or Mythical Pokemon?
Eternatus is classified as a Legendary Pokemon. It’s a powerful and unique creature tied to the lore of the Galar region, making it a key figure in the game’s story.
5. Is Eternatus stronger than Arceus?
In terms of base stats, Gigantamax Eternatus (which you don’t get to keep or use) has a higher total stat value than Arceus. However, Arceus is often considered the “God Pokemon” due to its lore and versatility with type-changing Plates. It really depends on how you define “stronger”!
6. What are Eternatus’s weaknesses?
Eternatus is a Poison/Dragon-type, making it weak to Ice, Ground, and Psychic-type moves. Plan your battle strategy accordingly!
7. Who is credited with catching Eternatus in the anime?
In the Pokemon anime, Goh catches Eternatus. However, he eventually gives it to Leon.
8. Can I use a Heavy Ball to catch Eternatus?
Yes, you can use a Heavy Ball. However, given Eternatus’s guaranteed catch rate, the Heavy Ball’s weight-based bonus is irrelevant. It’s purely an aesthetic choice.
9. What happens if I accidentally faint Eternatus?
Don’t worry! The game will prompt you to retry the battle, ensuring you have another chance to catch it. Remember, the catch is guaranteed after you defeat or faint it.
10. What are Eternatus’s signature moves?
Eternatus’s signature moves are Eternabeam, a powerful Dragon-type attack, and Dynamax Cannon, an even more powerful beam that deals extra damage to Dynamaxed Pokemon.
11. What are the best Pokeballs for style when catching Eternatus?
Since the catch is guaranteed, the best ball is the one you like the most. If you’re looking to match color schemes, the classic Pokeball or even a Luxury Ball could look great.
12. Is Eternatus’s catch rate truly 100%?
Yes, it is. There are no known exceptions or glitches that prevent you from catching Eternatus after depleting its HP.
13. Is Eternatus better than Zacian or Zamazenta?
Stat-wise, Zacian and Zamazenta have slightly better stats than regular Eternatus, but the true form of Eternatus in battle is the Eternamax Form which cannot be obtained.
14. Where can I find more information about Pokemon game mechanics?
You can find detailed information on Pokemon game mechanics and analysis from resources like Serebii.net and Bulbapedia. Plus, explore academic research on game-based learning and design at the Games Learning Society website at GamesLearningSociety.org.
15. Can Kubfu be shiny?
Kubfu can’t be shiny, Kubfu is considered a legendary Pokemon, so it cannot be bred with any other.
Beyond the Catch: Appreciating the Design
The guaranteed catch of Eternatus might seem like a simple mechanic, but it highlights the careful consideration that goes into designing a Pokemon game. It’s a balance between challenge, reward, and narrative flow. By removing the uncertainty of the catch, Game Freak prioritized the overall player experience and delivered a memorable climax to the Sword and Shield main story.
Final Thoughts
Catching Eternatus in Pokemon Sword and Shield is a guaranteed success, allowing you to use any Pokeball you desire. This deliberate design choice ensures a satisfying conclusion to a challenging battle and a smooth narrative progression. So, go ahead and pick your favorite Pokeball – the choice is yours! Consider the colors, shapes, and the overall feel of the capture animation. Let your personal style shine through as you capture one of the Galar region’s most formidable Legendary Pokemon.