Can You Use Gigantamax Eternatus? Unlocking the Mystery of the Gigantic Pokémon
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The short answer to the question, “Can you use Gigantamax Eternatus?”, is a resounding no. While Eternatus is indeed a Gigantic Pokémon with ties to the Dynamax phenomenon, players cannot directly trigger its Gigantamax form in Pokémon Sword and Shield or any subsequent Pokémon game. This is a crucial point that often confuses trainers due to Eternatus’s unique relationship with Dynamax energy and its two distinct forms. The form many mistake for a Gigantamax is actually called Eternamax Eternatus, which is a separate transformation. Let’s explore why this is the case, and delve into everything else you need to know about this unique Legendary Pokémon.
Eternatus’s Forms: Understanding the Difference
Eternatus has two distinct forms: its regular form and the significantly more imposing Eternamax form. The Eternamax form is only encountered during the climactic battle at the Energy Plant in Pokémon Sword and Shield. Importantly, it’s not a transformation achieved through Dynamaxing or Gigantamaxing, but rather a separate, story-driven transformation.
Why Can’t Eternatus Dynamax?
Despite its connection to the Dynamax phenomenon, Eternatus cannot be Dynamaxed itself. The game mechanics don’t allow it. The Eternamax form effectively replaces the Dynamaxing effect for Eternatus, making it a special case. In essence, Eternatus’s own immense power and link to the Darkest Day have essentially made it incompatible with the Dynamax process as it is used by other Pokémon. In the anime, it’s revealed that Eternatus can use its energy core to force other Pokémon to Dynamax or Gigantamax, further showcasing its unique control over this energy. This doesn’t translate into it being able to do so to itself.
Eternamax: A Transformation, Not a Gigantamax
The distinction is crucial. The Eternamax form is not a standard Gigantamax. It’s a unique transformation exclusive to Eternatus during a specific story event. While it may appear as if Eternatus is “Gigantamaxing,” this is purely a design element, not a mechanical function. When Eternatus uses the move Eternabeam, it briefly shows its Eternamax form in the animation. This small glimpse is the only place where the Eternamax form is displayed outside of the initial battle. You simply can’t access it any other way.
Eternatus’s Role in Pokémon Lore
Eternatus is not just a strong Pokémon; it’s a crucial antagonist within Pokémon Sword and Shield. As the overarching antagonist, it embodies the “Darkest Day,” a cataclysmic event threatening the Galar region. Its ability to manipulate Dynamax energy and its sheer power make it a formidable foe. In the anime, Goh catches Eternatus, adding it to his Pokédex before entrusting its Poké Ball to Professor Magnolia.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Eternatus
To further clarify any questions you might have about Eternatus, here are 15 frequently asked questions with detailed answers:
1. Is Eternamax Eternatus stronger than Arceus?
This is a complex question. Arceus, the Alpha Pokémon, has the ability to change its type, giving it a strategic advantage. Eternatus possesses a monstrous special attack stat, but its other stats are generally lower than Arceus. Arceus is also faster. Ultimately, the outcome of a battle largely depends on type advantages and the moves used.
2. Is Mega Rayquaza stronger than Eternamax Eternatus?
Technically, Eternamax Eternatus is likely stronger, but since it’s unobtainable for player use, Mega Rayquaza often takes the top spot in power discussions. Mega Rayquaza has a massive base stat total, ties with Mega Mewtwo in stats but doesn’t need to hold a mega stone freeing it up for another item. It is very powerful.
3. Can Mega Rayquaza defeat Arceus?
Yes, in terms of game mechanics, Mega Rayquaza is mathematically superior to Arceus, boasting a base stat total of 780 compared to Arceus’s 720. This, along with other factors, makes it a strong contender against Arceus.
4. Can Eternatus learn Draco Meteor?
Yes, Eternatus can learn Draco Meteor, making it one of the best Pokémon to utilize this powerful Dragon-type move. Its massive Special Attack stat allows it to deal significant damage with Draco Meteor.
5. Can you breed Eternatus with Ditto?
No, Legendary Pokémon like Eternatus cannot breed, even with Ditto. They are considered sterile.
6. How big is Gigantamax Eternatus?
While it’s not technically Gigantamax, the Eternamax form has a height of 65′ 07″ and a weight of 2094.4 lbs. Its gender is unknown.
7. Did Calyrex fight Eternatus?
Yes, the lore suggests that Calyrex attempted to fend off Eternatus in the distant past, even moving an entire forest for the sake of its inhabitants.
8. Did Ash have Eternatus?
Yes, Ash assisted in the capture of Eternatus alongside Goh. Goh was the trainer who caught it.
9. Is Eternatus VMAX strong?
Yes, Eternatus VMAX is considered a powerful card in the Pokémon Trading Card Game, able to create strong decks around it.
10. How do you get Eternatus to Eternamax?
You cannot get Eternatus to Eternamax outside of the story battle. It’s not a form that can be obtained via standard game mechanics. Some trainers have used Pokémon Editors to access the form, but this is done outside the rules of the game.
11. Why can Zacian not Dynamax?
Zacian and Zamazenta cannot Dynamax because they play an anti-Dynamax role in both the story and gameplay. Their signature moves, Behemoth Blade and Behemoth Bash, deal bonus damage against Dynamaxed opponents.
12. Can you get a Zacian egg?
No, like all Legendaries, Zacian and Zamazenta are genderless and cannot breed, making it impossible to obtain them from an egg.
13. Can Deoxys breed with Ditto?
Yes, Deoxys can breed with Ditto to produce more Deoxys eggs, being part of the “Legendary” Egg Group.
14. Is Eternatus a snake?
Regular Eternatus has a more draconic appearance, although slender. The Eternamax form has a more serpentine appearance, with a long, coiled body.
15. Is Eternatus weak to Fairy?
Eternatus is a Poison/Dragon-type Pokémon. It takes normal damage from Fairy-type moves, not double damage, despite its dragon typing, as poison has a normal effect on Fairy-type moves. It’s main weaknesses are Ground, Psychic, Ice, and Dragon moves.
Conclusion
While the idea of Gigantamaxing Eternatus is enticing, it’s simply not possible within the current mechanics of the Pokémon games. Eternatus’s Eternamax form remains a unique and powerful transformation reserved for the story, not player use. Understanding the difference between these forms and Eternatus’s role in the lore can help trainers better appreciate this fascinating Legendary Pokémon. It’s a true titan, in design, strength, and lore. Remember, you’ll have to rely on the vast array of other powerful Pokémon in the series as Eternatus remains a force that cannot be directly harnessed.