Which Trainer Has Eternatus? A Deep Dive into the Legendary Pokémon’s Ownership
The legendary Pokémon Eternatus, a dual-type Poison/Dragon behemoth introduced in Generation VIII, has a complex ownership history within the Pokémon universe. While its power is undeniable, its journey from a wild force of nature to being under the care of a specific trainer is quite remarkable. So, to answer the central question directly: Leon, the former Champion of the Galar region, is currently the trainer who has ownership of Eternatus.
Eternatus’s Journey: From Wild Threat to Trainer’s Companion
The Darkest Day and Eternatus’s Arrival
Eternatus first appears as a terrifying force, deeply connected to the phenomenon known as the Darkest Day. This event is a massive energy surge triggered by Eternatus and nearly threatens to plunge the Galar region into chaos. Initially, Eternatus is a wild Pokémon, not under the control of any trainer. Its power is raw and untamed, leading to its dangerous rampage. The primary motivation behind its appearance and the chaos it creates stems from its immense energy reserves and the attempt by Chairman Rose to harness this power for the benefit of the Galar region.
Goh’s Brief Capture and Safe Keeping
Following the chaos of the Darkest Day, our heroes encounter Eternatus again. In a significant turn of events, Goh manages to capture Eternatus after the legendary Pokemon is defeated with the help of Zacian and Zamazenta. This capture is a pivotal moment as it marks the first time Eternatus is brought under any semblance of control. However, Goh does not keep Eternatus for long. He adds it to his Pokédex and leaves its Poké Ball with Professor Magnolia for safekeeping, recognizing the responsibility and potential danger that comes with owning such a powerful entity.
Leon Takes Ownership for Training and Trust
The story of Eternatus takes another turn when Goh ultimately decides to entrust it to Leon. In the episode Just a Scone’s Throw From Here!, Goh gives Eternatus to Leon, believing that the former champion has the best chance of training the legendary Pokémon and helping it learn to trust humans. This decision is rooted in Leon’s experience, strength, and proven ability to handle powerful Pokemon. It’s a testament to Goh’s insight and willingness to prioritize the well-being and development of the captured legendary. The key motivation is to help Eternatus control its immense power and prevent it from becoming a threat again.
Leon’s Role as Eternatus’s Trainer
Leon’s Training Philosophy
Leon, known for his remarkable battling prowess and his focus on growth, takes on the challenge of training Eternatus with dedication. He understands the delicate balance between power and trust and aims to help Eternatus become a powerful ally rather than a source of destruction. Leon’s training isn’t about taming Eternatus; it’s about fostering understanding and mutual respect, which are crucial when handling such a unique and potentially volatile Pokémon.
Why Not Ash?
It is significant that Ash Ketchum, despite being one of the most accomplished trainers in the world, does not take possession of Eternatus. Ash’s path has always been about adventure, discovery, and connection with Pokemon. Leon, on the other hand, with his champion experience, was perceived as the best choice to help Eternatus grow and mature. This is also a narrative point, allowing Ash to strive to surpass even his former rival on a more even playing field.
Eternatus and The Pokemon World Championships
Notably, Leon does not use Eternatus against Ash in the Pokemon World Championships. This emphasizes that the transfer of Eternatus to Leon is not about gaining an unfair advantage but about the long-term development of the Pokémon. It’s clear that the story’s focus is not on the sheer power of Eternatus but rather the impact Leon can have on it, showcasing a deeper bond.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions about Eternatus and Its Trainers
1. Can Eternatus Evolve?
No, Eternatus does not evolve into or from any other Pokémon. However, it has two distinct forms: its regular form and Eternamax Eternatus, which appears during a specific battle in Pokémon Sword and Shield. The Eternamax form is not obtainable by players.
2. How Powerful is Eternamax Eternatus?
Eternamax Eternatus has the highest base stat total of any Pokémon, boasting an impressive 1,125. In comparison, regular Eternatus has a high base stat total, but the Eternamax form is exceptionally more powerful.
3. Is Eternatus Stronger than Arceus?
In terms of base stats, regular Eternatus is not more powerful than Arceus. However, Eternamax Eternatus is more powerful with its higher base stats. Arceus is considered the god of all Pokemon but doesn’t have the highest base stat total in the game.
4. Can Eternatus Gigantamax?
No, Eternatus cannot Gigantamax. Its special form, Eternamax, is distinct from Dynamax or Gigantamax forms and is triggered only during the battle in the Energy Plant.
5. Can Zacian or Zamazenta Dynamax?
No, Zacian and Zamazenta cannot Dynamax. In fact, their signature moves deal extra damage to Dynamaxed Pokémon, reflecting their anti-Dynamax role.
6. What are the Best Counters to Eternatus?
The best Pokémon Go counters to Eternatus include Shadow Mewtwo, Mega Rayquaza, Primal Groudon, Mega Alakazam, Mewtwo, and Mega Gardevoir. These types are chosen based on Eternatus’s dual Poison/Dragon typing.
7. Is Eternatus a Legendary or Mythical Pokémon?
Eternatus is classified as a Legendary Pokémon, not a Mythical Pokémon. It is catchable in both versions of Pokémon Sword and Shield.
8. How Difficult Is it to Catch Eternatus?
Eternatus comes with a 100% catch rate, making it guaranteed for the player during the story.
9. Is Eternatus Faster than Zacian?
In its base form, Eternatus is not faster than Zacian. Zacian, especially its crowned form, has higher speed stats.
10. What is Eternatus’s Real Name?
Eternatus’s name is derived from “eternal,” and its Japanese name, Mugendaina, is derived from “mugen,” which means “infinite”.
11. Can Mega Rayquaza Beat Arceus?
Mega Rayquaza has a higher base stat total than Arceus, making it mathematically superior within game mechanics. However, power rankings in the lore are often subject to debate.
12. Who is the Second Strongest Trainer?
Based on recent rankings in the anime, Leon is often cited as the second strongest trainer, after Ash Ketchum.
13. Was Ash Retiring as a Pokémon Trainer?
Ash Ketchum’s journey in the main anime series concluded in 2023, but the Pokemon franchise continues with new main characters. This marks the end of his role as the series’ protagonist.
14. Does Goh Still Own any Legendary Pokémon?
Although he initially captured Eternatus, Goh does not currently own it. He also caught Suicune but eventually released it. He is known for encountering and catching many different Pokémon.
15. Is Eternatus a villainous Pokémon?
Eternatus is considered the second villainous legendary Pokémon in the main series games, following Necrozma. It was used by Chairman Rose for a nefarious purpose, but it isn’t inherently evil. It’s more a force of nature that needs guidance and a trainer to help it channel its powers positively.
In conclusion, Leon is the current owner of Eternatus, and his role is one of care, training, and partnership, aiming to unlock the legendary Pokémon’s true potential for good. His journey with Eternatus is an interesting facet of the Pokemon world.