Can You Still Get Marshadow in Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon? A Definitive Guide
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The short answer is, unfortunately, no, you cannot obtain Marshadow legitimately in Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon anymore through the original distribution methods. The event codes that allowed players to redeem Marshadow expired long ago. However, don’t despair completely! There are still ways to acquire this elusive Mythical Pokémon, albeit they involve a bit more effort or luck. Let’s dive deep into the details.
Understanding Marshadow’s Distribution History
Marshadow, the Fighting/Ghost-type Pokémon, was initially distributed through special events tied to the theatrical release of “Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You!” in 2017. Players received special codes from participating retailers or cinemas, which could then be redeemed in their Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon games. These codes were time-sensitive, and once expired, they could no longer be used.
The primary method for obtaining Marshadow during its distribution period involved:
- Visiting Participating Retailers: Stores like Target in some regions offered codes for a limited time.
- Attending the Movie Release: Obtaining a code at the cinema during the release of “Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You!”.
- Entering the Code: Inputting the code in the Mystery Gift section of your Pokémon Ultra Sun or Ultra Moon game.
Alternative Methods for Acquiring Marshadow
Since the official distribution events are over, here are the ways you might still be able to add Marshadow to your Pokémon Ultra Sun or Ultra Moon team:
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Trading: This is the most common and legitimate way to get Marshadow now. Look for players willing to trade their Marshadow on online forums, trading communities, or via local Pokémon meetups. Be prepared to offer a valuable Pokémon in return, as Marshadow is a highly sought-after Mythical Pokémon. Remember to trade safely and responsibly!
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Pokémon Home: If you previously obtained Marshadow in a different game (like Pokémon Sword or Shield during a later event) and have a Pokémon Home subscription, you can transfer it to Pokémon Home and then transfer it back into Pokémon Ultra Sun or Ultra Moon, assuming you already had Marshadow registered in your Alola Pokédex. However, keep in mind that Pokémon transferred from Pokémon Home to older generations are one-way transfers.
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Used Game Cartridges: Occasionally, you might find used game cartridges that still have a redeemed Marshadow save file on them. This is a risky method, as you’d be essentially buying someone else’s save data, but it’s a possibility to consider. Always verify the legitimacy and condition of the cartridge before purchasing.
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GTS (Global Trade Station) (Limited): While less likely, you might find someone offering a Marshadow on the GTS. However, be extremely cautious, as these could be illegitimate or hacked Pokémon.
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Pokémon Giveaways: Keep an eye on Pokémon-related communities and social media for potential giveaways hosted by YouTubers, streamers, or online groups. These giveaways can sometimes include rare Pokémon like Marshadow.
Why Marshadow is So Desirable
Marshadow’s allure stems from several factors:
- Mythical Status: As a Mythical Pokémon, Marshadow is rarer and more challenging to obtain than regular Legendary Pokémon. They are often event-exclusive and not found in the wild.
- Unique Typing: Its Fighting/Ghost typing offers a unique combination of strengths and weaknesses, making it a valuable asset in battles.
- Signature Move: Marshadow’s signature move, Spectral Thief, allows it to steal the stat boosts of its opponent while dealing damage, making it a formidable opponent.
- Competitive Viability: Marshadow is a strong contender in competitive battling due to its speed, attack power, and disruptive capabilities.
Identifying a Legitimate Marshadow
When acquiring Marshadow through trading or other means, it’s crucial to verify its legitimacy to avoid receiving a hacked or illegitimate Pokémon. Here are some key indicators:
- OT (Original Trainer): Check the OT. If the OT is a known hacking website or a string of random characters, the Marshadow is likely hacked.
- Date Met: The “Date Met” should align with the original distribution period in 2017. Any date outside this range raises suspicion.
- Stats and IVs: While it’s possible to hyper train a Pokémon, excessively perfect stats or IVs (Individual Values) are a red flag.
- Location Met: The “Location Met” should be a Mystery Gift event or a location consistent with the official distribution.
- Shiny Status: Remember that Marshadow is shiny locked, so any shiny Marshadow is illegitimate.
- Ribbons: Check for event-specific ribbons. These can sometimes indicate legitimacy, but skilled hackers can also replicate these.
Games Learning Society emphasizes the importance of ethical gameplay and fair trading practices within the Pokémon community. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more about fostering a positive gaming environment.
FAQs About Marshadow
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify everything you need to know about Marshadow.
1. Is Marshadow still obtainable in any Pokémon game through official events?
No, there are no current active events distributing Marshadow in any Pokémon game. Past distributions have concluded.
2. Can I transfer Marshadow from Pokémon Go to Pokémon Ultra Sun or Moon?
No, transfers from Pokémon GO to Pokémon Ultra Sun or Moon are not possible.
3. Is Marshadow immune to Normal-type moves?
Yes, due to its Ghost-type nature, Marshadow is immune to Normal-type moves.
4. What are Marshadow’s weaknesses?
Marshadow is weak to Ghost, Flying, Psychic, and Fairy type moves.
5. What is Marshadow’s signature Z-Move?
Marshadow’s signature Z-Move is Soul-Stealing 7-Star Strike, requiring the Z-Crystal Marshadium Z and the move Spectral Thief.
6. Is it possible to breed Marshadow to get another one?
No, Mythical Pokémon like Marshadow cannot be bred in the Pokémon games.
7. What is the best nature for Marshadow?
The best natures for Marshadow are typically Jolly (increases Speed, decreases Special Attack) or Adamant (increases Attack, decreases Special Attack), depending on your preferred battle strategy.
8. Is Marshadow a legendary Pokémon?
Marshadow is classified as a Mythical Pokémon, which is a subset of Legendary Pokémon that are generally rarer and distributed through special events.
9. What abilities does Marshadow have?
Marshadow has only one ability: Technician, which powers up weaker moves.
10. Can Marshadow be used in official Pokémon competitions?
The use of Marshadow in official competitions varies depending on the specific rules and regulations of the event. It’s best to check the official tournament guidelines.
11. What is the story behind Marshadow?
Marshadow is said to reside in the shadows of other Pokémon and mimic their movements, gradually becoming stronger.
12. What level does Marshadow learn Spectral Thief?
Marshadow learns Spectral Thief at level 1.
13. Where does Marshadow rank in terms of competitive battling tier lists?
Marshadow is often ranked high in competitive battling tier lists due to its speed, attack power, and disruptive movepool. However, specific rankings may vary depending on the format and meta-game.
14. What are some good movesets for Marshadow?
A common moveset for Marshadow includes Spectral Thief, Close Combat, Shadow Sneak, and Rock Tomb/Ice Punch.
15. Are there any reliable online communities for trading Pokémon, including Marshadow?
Yes, there are several reliable online communities and forums, such as the r/PokemonTrades subreddit, Serebii.net forums, and Discord servers dedicated to Pokémon trading.
Final Thoughts
While obtaining Marshadow in Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon legitimately is now a challenge, it’s not impossible. By exploring trading opportunities, checking Pokémon Home, and exercising caution when encountering potential offers, you might just add this powerful Mythical Pokémon to your team. Remember to verify legitimacy and support fair play within the Pokémon community. Good luck on your quest to catch ’em all!