Can Eternatus Dynamax After You Catch Him? Exploring the Mysteries of the Gigantic Pokémon

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No, Eternatus cannot Dynamax or Gigantamax after you catch it in Pokémon Sword and Shield. While you battle Eternatus in its Eternamax form, a unique and incredibly powerful state, this form is exclusive to that specific encounter. Once captured, Eternatus reverts to its base form, and while it possesses the unique move Dynamax Cannon, it cannot undergo the Dynamax or Gigantamax transformation itself. This is a key distinction that sets Eternatus apart from other Pokémon capable of Dynamaxing.

Understanding Eternatus and Dynamaxing

The Dynamax Phenomenon

Dynamaxing is a phenomenon specific to the Galar region, where Pokémon grow to gigantic sizes, significantly boosting their power. Gigantamaxing is a special form of Dynamaxing that changes a Pokémon’s appearance as well as its size and power. Usually, this requires a Pokémon with the Gigantamax factor.

Eternatus’ Unique Role

Eternatus plays a pivotal role in the Dynamax phenomenon. It is revealed that Eternatus is the source of Dynamax energy, which it absorbs from the surrounding environment. This energy is what allows Pokémon in Galar to Dynamax. However, Eternatus’ own transformation into Eternamax Eternatus is not a standard Dynamax or Gigantamax transformation. It is a forced transformation, drawing on incredible amounts of energy to reach a scale of power that dwarfs even Gigantamax Pokémon.

Why No Post-Capture Dynamax?

The inability for a captured Eternatus to Dynamax or Gigantamax can be attributed to several factors:

• Game Balance: Allowing players to use Eternamax Eternatus would be game-breaking, given its immense stats and power.
• Lore Implications: The Eternamax form represents a state of uncontrolled power that Eternatus can only achieve under specific circumstances during the Darkest Day event.
• Unique Design: Eternatus’ design is intended to emphasize its role as a source of Dynamax energy rather than a standard Dynamax-capable Pokémon.

Using Eternatus in Battle

Even though Eternatus can’t Dynamax, it remains a formidable Pokémon in its base form. Its high stats and access to powerful moves like Dynamax Cannon make it a valuable addition to any team. Dynamax Cannon, in particular, is a potent weapon against Dynamaxed opponents, dealing double damage to those in their enlarged forms.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Eternatus

1. What happens to Eternatus after you catch it?

   After you catch Eternatus, it joins your team like any other Pokémon. It will be in its standard, non-Dynamax form, ready to be used in battles.

2. How do I use Dynamax Cannon?

   Dynamax Cannon is a special move that Eternatus learns. It can be used like any other attack in battle. Its unique effect is dealing double damage to Dynamaxed Pokémon.

3. Who is stronger: Necrozma or Eternatus?

   While Eternatus’ Eternamax form is incredibly powerful, the consensus, based on simulated battles and analysis, is that Necrozma generally has the advantage. Necrozma’s type matchups and overall capabilities give it an edge.

4. Is Eternatus a guaranteed catch?

   Yes, Eternatus has a 100% catch rate during the scripted battle. You can use any Poké Ball you have.

5. What happens if you lose to Eternatus?

   If you lose to Eternatus, you will be sent back to the last Pokémon Center you visited, and you will lose some money. You will need to re-challenge Eternatus to progress.

6. Can Zacian defeat Eternatus?

   Yes, Zacian and Zamazenta play a crucial role in defeating Eternatus during the story. Their combined power, amplified by the Rusted Sword and Shield, is necessary to subdue the rampaging Pokémon.

7. Can Eternatus breed?

   No, Eternatus cannot breed. As a Legendary Pokémon, it is incapable of producing eggs in the Pokémon games.

8. Is Eternatus the most powerful Pokémon ever?

   In terms of raw stats, Eternamax Eternatus holds the record for the highest base stat total in the Pokémon games. However, this form is unplayable. In terms of usable Pokémon, other legendaries may be considered more strategically powerful due to abilities and movepools.

9. Is Eternatus a Legendary or Mythical Pokémon?

   Eternatus is classified as a Legendary Pokémon in Pokémon Sword and Shield.

10. Is Eternatus VMAX rare?

    Yes, Eternatus VMAX cards are considered Ultra Rare in the Pokémon Trading Card Game, reflecting the Pokémon’s unique status in the video games.

11. Is Zamazenta stronger than Eternatus?

    While Zamazenta’s stats are high, Eternatus has a more flexible move-set which makes up for the slightly lower stats.

12. Who would win: Arceus or Necrozma?

    Arceus is generally considered to be more powerful than Necrozma. While Ultra Necrozma has a higher stat total, it requires the energy of other Pokémon and an entire region to achieve that form, while Arceus is inherently powerful.

13. Why did Goh release Eternatus?

    Goh didn’t release Eternatus. With Goh’s blessing, Leon takes ownership of Eternatus so he can continue training it and helping it learn to trust humans.

14. Why is Eternamax Eternatus so strong?

    Eternamax Eternatus is so strong due to its immense size and ability to absorb Dynamax energy. This combination results in an overwhelmingly powerful form with incredibly high stats.

15. Is there a shiny Eternatus?

    While a shiny Eternatus does not appear in the main gameplay of Pokémon Sword and Shield, a shiny Eternatus has been distributed as a special event for promotional purposes.

Eternatus’ Legacy

Despite not being able to Dynamax after capture, Eternatus remains a significant figure in the Pokémon universe. Its role as the source of Dynamax energy and its awe-inspiring Eternamax form have cemented its place as one of the most memorable and powerful Legendary Pokémon. Its unique design and lore implications continue to fascinate players and theorists alike, ensuring its lasting legacy in the world of Pokémon.

The lessons embedded in games and learned through gameplay can be profound, enriching both personal development and scholarly understanding. To explore more about the intersection of gaming and education, visit the Games Learning Society website at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.