Chasing Shadows: Unraveling the Timeline of the Shiny Eternatus Event
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So, you’re itching to get your hands on a Shiny Eternatus in Pokémon Sword or Pokémon Shield? You’re not alone! This elusive, uniquely colored legendary Pokémon has been the desire of many trainers. Let’s cut right to the chase and then dig deeper into all things Eternatus.
The Shiny Eternatus event spanned various periods depending on the method of distribution. The primary in-store distribution, where trainers could pick up a code card from participating retailers, ran from September 18 to October 1, 2022. Additionally, some online distributions extended the availability of codes until November 17, 2022.
Deciphering the Eternatus Enigma: A Trainer’s Guide
Now that we have the core timeline established, let’s dive into the details and address some burning questions about the event, the Pokémon itself, and everything in between. Consider this your comprehensive guide to all things Shiny Eternatus!
Untangling the Timelines: Multiple Distribution Methods
It’s crucial to understand that there were essentially two phases to the Shiny Eternatus distribution:
- In-Store Code Distribution: This was the primary method, relying on physical visits to participating retailers. The period for this was September 18 to October 1, 2022. This timeframe was quite limited, making it essential to act quickly.
- Online Code Giveaways: Following the in-store distribution, certain websites and promotional events offered codes online. The example given suggests online code availability lasted until November 17, 2022. This provided a secondary chance for trainers who missed the initial window.
Keep in mind that the redeemability of these codes could have varied. Even if you obtained a code by November 17th, it’s important to check if the code was still valid within the game itself.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Shiny Eternatus
Alright, let’s tackle those pressing questions that every trainer is asking.
1. How long does the Shiny Eternatus code last?
This is a tricky one. The stated end date for obtaining the code via online giveaways was November 17, 2022. However, codes typically have an expiration date beyond the distribution period. It’s essential to check the terms of the specific giveaway or the back of the code card (if you have one) for a precise expiration date. In many cases, codes expire within a few months of distribution. As it is past that date, the codes will not longer work.
2. Is the Shiny Eternatus event free?
Yes, both the in-store and online distribution methods were free. You didn’t need to purchase anything to receive a code, although some retailers might have encouraged purchases as part of their promotion. The core concept was to reward players with a special Pokémon.
3. Is Shiny Eternatus rare?
Getting the Shiny Eternatus through the distribution was not inherently rare. However, catching a naturally occurring Shiny Eternatus is impossible, as it is Shiny locked. Therefore, these distributed Eternatus are especially valued. The text also mentioned a shiny catch rate of 1 in 450 which means that, generally speaking, shiny Pokemon are rare.
4. Is Shiny Eternatus a pre-order bonus?
In some regions, retailers like GameStop and EB Games offered Shiny Eternatus codes as an incentive for pre-ordering Pokémon Scarlet or Pokémon Violet. This wasn’t a universal pre-order bonus, but rather a promotion specific to certain stores in certain regions.
5. What level is Shiny Eternatus when redeemed?
The distributed Shiny Eternatus arrived at Level 100. This makes it battle-ready and a valuable addition to any team.
6. What moves does Shiny Eternatus know?
The Level 100 Shiny Eternatus knew the moves Dynamax Cannon, Eternabeam, Sludge Bomb, and Flamethrower. This provides a diverse move set for a range of battles.
7. Can I capture Eternatus in its Eternamax form?
No, the Eternamax form is exclusive to the battle against Eternatus at the Energy Plant. You cannot capture it in that form, nor can you Dynamax/Gigantamax the Eternatus you receive via the code.
8. Is Eternatus a Legendary or Mythical Pokémon?
Eternatus is classified as a Legendary Pokémon.
9. Is Eternatus the tallest Pokémon?
Yes, with a height of 65’07” (19.7 meters), Eternatus holds the title of the tallest Pokémon. Its sheer size is quite remarkable.
10. Is Eternatus faster than Zacian?
Zacian is faster than Eternatus in both its forms. While both Pokémon are incredibly powerful, Zacian’s speed gives it a significant advantage in battle. The original text also referenced that Zacian, in unarmed form, is faster than Eternatus by eight points.
11. What happens if you lose to Eternatus in the main story of Pokémon Sword and Shield?
Losing to Eternatus in the main story is part of the game’s progression. You are meant to lose the first time, after which you will need to use the power of Zacian and Zamazenta to defeat it.
12. Where do I redeem the Shiny Eternatus code?
To redeem the code, follow these steps:
- Boot up your copy of Pokémon Sword or Pokémon Shield.
- Press X to open the main menu.
- Select Mystery Gift.
- Select Get with Code/Password.
- Enter your code.
- Your Shiny Eternatus will be delivered to your game.
Remember to save your game after receiving your gift!
13. Is Kubfu able to be shiny?
No, Kubfu cannot be shiny. Like many legendary Pokémon, Kubfu is “Shiny locked” in the game, meaning its shiny form is unavailable.
14. Can Enamorus be shiny?
No, Enamorus is also “Shiny locked” within its debut game, Legends: Arceus. This means that it is not possible to legitimately obtain a shiny version of Enamorus.
15. Are there any Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) versions of Eternatus?
Yes, Eternatus has appeared in the Pokémon Trading Card Game in several forms, including:
- Eternatus V
- Eternatus VMAX
- Eternatus VMAX (Rainbow Rare)
These cards are available in various sets and have different levels of rarity.
Learning Through Games: The Power of Interactive Experiences
Beyond the excitement of collecting Shiny Pokémon, remember that gaming offers invaluable learning opportunities. Concepts like strategy, resource management, and problem-solving are constantly being honed as you navigate the world of Pokémon. Organizations like the Games Learning Society are at the forefront of exploring how games can be used to enhance education and development. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to discover more about this exciting intersection of gaming and learning.
Final Thoughts: The Legacy of Shiny Eternatus
While the official event windows for acquiring Shiny Eternatus have passed, the allure of this magnificent Pokémon remains. Hopefully, this guide has shed some light on the event’s timeline and answered your most pressing questions. Whether you were fortunate enough to obtain one or are still searching through the trading community, the Shiny Eternatus serves as a testament to the engaging and ever-evolving world of Pokémon.