Can You Catch Zacian Twice in Pokémon Sword & Shield? A Deep Dive
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
The burning question on every Pokémon Trainer’s mind: Can you get Zacian twice in Pokémon Sword? The short answer is no, you can only catch one Zacian per save file in Pokémon Sword. However, there are ways to obtain multiple Zacians, which we’ll explore in detail below. Prepare for a comprehensive guide covering everything you need to know about acquiring this legendary Pokémon, including trading, alternate profiles, and more.
Obtaining Zacian: The Initial Catch
Zacian, the Legendary Warrior Pokémon of the Sword version, is encountered towards the very end of the main storyline. After you become the Champion and deal with the Dynamax threat, you’ll have the opportunity to battle and capture Zacian. This encounter is scripted, meaning you cannot miss it. However, once you’ve caught Zacian, that’s it for that save file.
Methods for Acquiring Multiple Zacians
While the game only allows one Zacian per save, resourceful trainers have found other methods:
Trading: The Most Common Solution
The easiest and most common way to get a second Zacian is through trading. You can trade with other players online or locally. This means you could trade with someone who owns an extra Zacian (perhaps from another playthrough) or even a Zamazenta (the Shield legendary) for your own Zacian. Online trading platforms and communities are readily available to facilitate these trades.
Starting a New Game on Another Profile
Another method involves creating a new profile on your Nintendo Switch. This allows you to start a brand new game of Pokémon Sword, play through the story, and catch another Zacian. However, this presents a challenge: you’ll need a way to transfer that Zacian to your primary save file.
- The Two Switch Method: If you own two Nintendo Switch consoles, you can trade between your profiles easily using local communication.
- The Friend Assist Method: If you don’t have two Switches, you can enlist the help of a friend. Trade the Zacian from your second profile to your friend, and then have your friend trade it to your primary profile.
Exploiting Events and Distributions (Historically)
While not currently active, it’s worth noting that occasionally, The Pokémon Company distributes special Pokémon, sometimes including legendary Pokémon. Keep an eye on official announcements and events, as there’s a small chance Zacian could be distributed again in the future. Unfortunately, historically, these events have not offered another chance to catch a second Zacian.
The Importance of Zacian
Zacian is highly sought after due to its incredible battle prowess. As a Fairy/Steel type, Zacian boasts a fantastic offensive presence and a useful defensive typing. In its Crowned Sword form, achieved by holding the Rusted Sword, Zacian becomes an absolute powerhouse, capable of sweeping entire teams. Its signature move, Behemoth Blade, is incredibly strong and can deal massive damage. Given all these factors, it is a great reason to want more than one!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Zacian
1. Is Zacian 100% Catch Rate?
No, Zacian does not have a 100% catch rate. Its base catch rate is quite low, around 3.9% (10). You’ll need to weaken it and use strong Poké Balls like Ultra Balls or even a Master Ball for a guaranteed catch.
2. Can I Catch Both Zacian and Zamazenta in One Game?
No, you cannot catch both Zacian and Zamazenta in one game. Zacian is exclusive to Pokémon Sword, while Zamazenta is exclusive to Pokémon Shield. To obtain both, you need to trade.
3. Can You Breed Zacian with Ditto?
No, you cannot breed Zacian with Ditto. Legendary Pokémon, with a few exceptions like Manaphy, belong to the Undiscovered Egg Group and therefore cannot breed.
4. Is Zacian Shiny Locked?
Yes, Zacian is shiny locked in Pokémon Sword. This means that you cannot encounter a shiny version of Zacian through normal gameplay.
5. Should I Use My Master Ball on Zacian?
Using your Master Ball on Zacian is a viable option, especially if you’re not planning on using it for other rare encounters. Zacian is powerful, and its low catch rate can make it frustrating to catch using regular Poké Balls. The Master Ball guarantees a successful capture.
6. What Happens If I Defeat Zacian?
If you accidentally defeat Zacian before catching it, you will have another chance to battle it again. Simply re-enter the area, and it will respawn.
7. Is Zacian Zamazenta’s Sister?
The Pokédex entries for Zacian and Zamazenta imply a sibling relationship. Zacian is often described as the elder sister, while Zamazenta is described as the younger brother. However, both Pokémon are genderless in the game’s mechanics.
8. Which Poké Ball Is Best for Catching Zacian?
While the Master Ball guarantees a catch, if you want to conserve it, Ultra Balls are your best bet. Other Poké Balls, like the Timer Ball (used in prolonged battles) and Dusk Ball (used in caves or at night), can also be effective. Lure Balls have no special effect on Legendary Pokémon.
9. Is Zacian V Rare?
Zacian V is a valuable card depending on which version of the Pokémon Trading Card Game you’re playing. The 138/202 Ultra Rare version is highly sought after.
10. Why Is Zacian Female?
Zacian is implied to be female due to the Pokédex entries in the English and Japanese versions, which refer to her as an elder sister. However, the Pokémon is technically genderless in the game.
11. Is Zacian a Wolf or a Dog?
Zacian and Zamazenta are based on wolves, reflecting the rich British folklore that inspired Pokémon Sword and Shield.
12. Did Ash Have Zacian?
In the anime, Ash encountered Zacian in the Slumbering Weald. However, he did not catch it.
13. Is Zacian Stronger Than Eternatus?
While Eternatus has impressive stats and a unique type, Zacian (especially in its Crowned Sword form) is often considered stronger due to its superior typing, ability, and movepool. In the storyline of Sword and Shield, Zacian and Zamazenta worked together to defeat Eternatus.
14. Is Shiny Zacian Free at GameStop?
This was a past promotional event. Shiny Zacian was distributed at GameStop for a limited time as part of a promotional event celebrating Pokémon Sword and Shield. These events are time-sensitive, and they’re often shared online.
15. How Do You Get Zacian Crowned?
Zacian transforms into its Crowned Sword form when it holds the Rusted Sword. This item is obtained during the post-game storyline and is essential for unlocking Zacian’s full potential.
Conclusion
While obtaining multiple Zacians in Pokémon Sword requires effort beyond simply catching them in the wild, trading and utilizing multiple profiles offer viable solutions. Understanding the mechanics of the game, alongside the limitations and possibilities, will help any dedicated trainer achieve their goal of assembling a team of powerful Legendary Pokémon.
Whether you’re battling online, completing your Pokédex, or simply enjoying the rich world of Pokémon, mastering the intricacies of obtaining these legendary creatures adds another layer to the experience. And while you’re at it, consider exploring the educational aspects of gaming through resources like the Games Learning Society and its website at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. As you can see, gaming goes beyond just pure fun.