Unraveling the Mystery: Is Rapidash a Shield Exclusive in Pokémon Sword and Shield?
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 short answer is: Galarian Rapidash and Galarian Ponyta are exclusive to Pokémon Shield. However, Kanto Rapidash and Ponyta can be found in both games.
Let’s delve deeper into the specifics of obtaining these majestic equines and address some frequently asked questions to clear up any lingering confusion.
Obtaining Galarian Rapidash: A Shield Trainer’s Guide
For Pokémon Shield players, acquiring a Galarian Rapidash is a relatively straightforward process. The key is to first find and catch its pre-evolution, Galarian Ponyta.
Locating Galarian Ponyta
Galarian Ponyta can be found in the Glimwood Tangle, a mysterious and enchanting forest within the Galar region. Keep in mind that it has a 10% spawn rate, so patience is key. You’ll need to wander through the tall grass in the Glimwood Tangle, and it might take a few encounters before you finally spot one. Don’t give up!
Evolving Galarian Ponyta
Once you’ve captured your Galarian Ponyta, evolving it into Galarian Rapidash is a simple matter of leveling it up. There are no special conditions or items required. Just train your Galarian Ponyta until it reaches Level 40, and it will evolve into the magnificent Galarian Rapidash. This is quite different from some other Pokémon evolutions that require specific times of day, friendship levels, or held items.
Sword Players: Trading is Key
If you’re playing Pokémon Sword, you won’t find Galarian Ponyta or Galarian Rapidash in the wild. Your only option is to trade with a friend who has Pokémon Shield or use online trading features.
Is Galarian Rapidash Rare?
While Galarian Rapidash itself isn’t exceptionally rare once you have a Galarian Ponyta, the lower spawn rate of Galarian Ponyta in the Glimwood Tangle can make finding one a bit of a challenge. In terms of Pokémon cards, certain Galarian Rapidash cards, particularly those from the Sword & Shield series, can be considered rare, especially holographic or full-art versions. The rarity depends on the specific card and its condition.
FAQs: Galarian Rapidash and Version Exclusivity
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify everything about Galarian Rapidash and version exclusives in Pokémon Sword and Shield:
1. What is the type combination of Galarian Rapidash?
Galarian Rapidash is a Psychic/Fairy type Pokémon. This unique typing gives it a distinct advantage in battles against certain types, such as Dragon and Fighting types.
2. Can I find a regular (Kanto) Rapidash in Pokémon Sword and Shield?
Yes, you can find the Kanto version of Rapidash in both Sword and Shield.
3. Are there any other version-exclusive Pokémon in Sword and Shield?
Yes, there are many version-exclusive Pokémon. Some notable examples include:
-
Sword: Galarian Farfetch’d, Sirfetch’d, Deino, Zweilous, Hydreigon, Jangmo-o, Hakamo-o, Kommo-o, Scraggy, Scrafty, Gothita, Gothorita, Gothitelle, Seedot, Nuzleaf, Shiftry, Rufflet, Braviary, Mawile, Solrock, Passimian, Turtonator.
-
Shield: Galarian Ponyta, Galarian Rapidash, Larvitar, Pupitar, Tyranitar, Lotad, Lombre, Ludicolo, Sableye, Lunatone, Galarian Corsola, Cursola, Oranguru, Drampa, Appletun.
4. How can I get version-exclusive Pokémon from the other version?
The primary method is through trading. You can trade with friends who have the opposite version or use online trading features like the Surprise Trade or connect to the internet and trade with other players around the world.
5. Is it possible to transfer Pokémon from older games to Sword and Shield?
Yes, using Pokémon HOME, a cloud-based service, you can transfer Pokémon from older games like Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee!, Pokémon GO, and the 3DS Pokémon games to Pokémon Sword and Shield, provided the Pokémon are compatible.
6. What are the differences between Galarian and Kanto Rapidash?
The primary differences lie in their appearance, typing, and abilities. Kanto Rapidash is a Fire-type Pokémon with a fiery mane, while Galarian Rapidash is a Psychic/Fairy-type with a pastel-colored, unicorn-like appearance. They also have different move sets and stats that can impact their battling strategies.
7. What is the best nature for Galarian Rapidash?
A good nature for Galarian Rapidash is Jolly (Speed up, Special Attack down) or Adamant (Attack up, Special Attack down) depending on if you want to outspeed opponents or have more powerful physical attacks.
8. What abilities does Galarian Rapidash have?
Galarian Rapidash can have the abilities Run Away or Pastel Veil. Run Away allows it to flee from any wild Pokémon battle, and Pastel Veil protects it and its allies from poisoning. It’s Hidden Ability is Anticipation which alerts the Pokemon if the opponent has a super effective move, one-hit KO move, or Self-Destruct/Explosion.
9. What are some good movesets for Galarian Rapidash?
Some useful moves for Galarian Rapidash include:
- Play Rough (Fairy-type)
- Zen Headbutt (Psychic-type)
- Megahorn (Bug-type)
- High Horsepower (Ground-type)
- Swords Dance (Normal-type, stat boosting move)
10. Can I breed Galarian Ponyta or Rapidash to get more of them?
Yes, you can breed Galarian Ponyta and Galarian Rapidash in Pokémon Sword and Shield. If you breed a Galarian Ponyta or Galarian Rapidash with a Ditto or another compatible Pokémon, the resulting egg will hatch into a Galarian Ponyta.
11. How do I get a Zacian in Pokemon Shield?
In Pokemon Shield, Zacian cannot be caught. The only way to obtain it is via trading. In Pokemon Sword, Zacian can be caught above the tower of Hammerlocke Gym.
12. What makes a Pokémon exclusive to a particular game version?
Version exclusivity is a design choice by the Pokémon game developers to encourage players to interact with each other through trading and battling, fostering a sense of community and cooperation. It also adds replay value, as players might consider purchasing the other version to complete their Pokédex.
13. Can I change a Rapidash into a Galarian Rapidash?
No. Rapidash has two different forms – Galarian Form and a regular Kantonian form. You’ll only encounter the Galarian Rapidash in the Galar Region, and you can’t change its form.
14. Is Oranguru a Sword or Shield exclusive?
Oranguru is exclusive to the Pokemon Shield version of the game.
15. What is the 999th Pokemon?
Gimmighoul is the 999th Pokemon. It is a Ghost-type Pokémon introduced in Generation IX. It evolves into Gholdengo when leveled up while the player has 999 Gimmighoul Coins.
The Enduring Appeal of Version Exclusivity
Version exclusivity has been a staple of the Pokémon franchise for decades. While it might seem frustrating to some players, it undoubtedly encourages interaction and collaboration within the Pokémon community. Trading and battling with friends or online players to obtain version-exclusive Pokémon adds a layer of depth and social engagement to the gameplay experience.
For those interested in exploring the broader applications of games in education and learning, consider visiting the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/ for research and resources on game-based learning. The GamesLearningSociety.org explores how games can be used to develop essential skills and knowledge across various disciplines.