Is the Shiny Eternatus Event Free? A Comprehensive Guide
Yes, the Shiny Eternatus event was indeed free. During the event period, GameStop stores in the US and Canada, and EB Games in Australia and New Zealand, were giving out free download codes for a Shiny Eternatus to players of Pokémon Sword & Shield. No purchase was necessary to obtain the code. Let’s dive into the details of this popular event and answer some frequently asked questions.
What You Need to Know About the Shiny Eternatus Event
The Shiny Eternatus distribution event was a much-anticipated opportunity for Pokémon trainers to add a rare and powerful Legendary Pokémon to their team. This event leveraged a simple but effective method: physical distribution of codes at retail locations. This encourages visits and creates buzz, benefiting both the Pokémon franchise and the participating stores.
Event Mechanics: How to Obtain Your Shiny Eternatus
The mechanics of the event were straightforward:
- Visit a participating store: During the event, players needed to visit a participating GameStop (US and Canada) or EB Games (Australia and New Zealand) location.
- Request a code: Simply ask an employee for a Shiny Eternatus code card.
- Redeem the code: Enter the code in your Pokémon Sword or Pokémon Shield game via the Mystery Gift option.
- Receive your Shiny Eternatus: Your Shiny Eternatus will then be available to claim in your game.
This physical distribution method fostered a sense of community and engagement, encouraging players to interact and share their experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Shiny Eternatus
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to provide additional valuable information about the Shiny Eternatus and the event surrounding it:
1. When Was the Shiny Eternatus Event Held?
The Shiny Eternatus event ran from September 18 to October 1, 2022. This was the period during which codes were available at participating retail locations.
2. Was the Shiny Eternatus Code Region-Locked?
Yes, codes were region-locked. Codes obtained from GameStop in the US and Canada worked only with North American versions of Pokémon Sword and Shield. Similarly, codes from EB Games in Australia and New Zealand were intended for those regions.
3. What Level and Moveset Did Shiny Eternatus Have?
Shiny Eternatus arrived at Level 100 with a Timid Nature and the Pressure Ability. Its moveset included:
- Dynamax Cannon
- Eternabeam
- Sludge Bomb
- Flamethrower
4. Could Shiny Eternatus Gigantamax?
No, while Eternatus has an Eternamax form that it takes during a specific battle in the game, it is not possible for players to trigger this form through Dynamaxing or Gigantamaxing outside of that scripted encounter. The Shiny Eternatus received from the event also cannot transform into its Eternamax form.
5. Is Shiny Eternatus Legal for Competitive Play?
Yes, a Shiny Eternatus obtained through the official distribution event was legal for competitive play, provided it adhered to all other rules and restrictions in place for the specific competition.
6. Can You Still Get Shiny Eternatus?
Unfortunately, the official distribution event has ended. Unless you obtain a valid, unused code from someone who acquired it during the event, it is not possible to legitimately obtain a Shiny Eternatus at this time.
7. What is the Shiny Eternatus code?
The Shiny Eternatus code that was given out during the event was: E2033BHD9P7AXLE3.
8. Are Shiny Pokémon Guaranteed?
No, Shiny Pokémon are not guaranteed in the wild. The standard odds of encountering a Shiny Pokémon are relatively low, although there are methods to increase these odds, such as using the Shiny Charm or participating in specific events that boost Shiny rates.
9. Was Shiny Eternatus a Preorder Bonus?
While the Shiny Eternatus event coincided with the period when Pokémon Scarlet and Violet preorders were open, it wasn’t directly tied to preordering the new games. It was a standalone event.
10. Can I Use Eternatus Against Leon?
Yes, you can use Eternatus in your battle against Leon. Doing so triggers unique dialogue before the battle, adding a special touch for dedicated players.
11. What is the Catch Rate of Eternatus in the Story?
During the storyline encounter, Eternatus has a 100% catch rate. This ensures that players obtain the Legendary Pokémon as part of the game’s narrative.
12. Is Eternatus VMAX Rare?
Yes, the Eternatus VMAX card is considered a Rare Ultra card in the Pokémon Trading Card Game. This makes it a desirable and valuable item for collectors.
13. What If I Faint Eternatus During the Story?
If you faint Eternatus during the story encounter, you will be given another chance to battle and catch it. The game ensures that you can proceed with the story by guaranteeing you the opportunity to catch it.
14. Can Kubfu Be Shiny?
No, Kubfu cannot be Shiny through normal gameplay. The Kubfu received in the game is Shiny-locked, meaning it will always be its standard color. Additionally, as a Legendary Pokémon, it cannot be bred.
15. How Does This Event Impact Learning and Engagement?
Events like the Shiny Eternatus distribution can have an impact on learning and engagement, albeit indirectly. They spark interest in strategic gameplay, collection, and community interaction. The excitement surrounding such events might encourage players to delve deeper into the game’s mechanics, fostering strategic thinking and problem-solving skills. Furthermore, the social aspect of discussing and trading Pokémon can promote communication and collaboration skills. Educational organizations like the Games Learning Society, found at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/, explore how games and game-like elements can be effectively used in education.
The Legacy of the Shiny Eternatus Event
The Shiny Eternatus event remains a memorable moment for Pokémon Sword and Shield players. It offered a chance to acquire a powerful and rare Legendary Pokémon without any purchase requirements. While the event is over, its impact on the community and the value of the Shiny Eternatus remain significant. For those interested in the broader impacts of gaming and learning, the Games Learning Society provides valuable insights and research.