Similar to previous Pokemon games, Pokemon Sword and Pokemon Shield allow players to battle against other players from around the world over WiFi. This guide will explain how to do it and how it works.
How To Battle Online in Pokemon Sword and Shield
- Press the Y button.
- Press [+] to connect to the Internet.
- Select Link Battle.
- Select the battle type: single battle, double battle or multi battle.
- Optional: You can press [+] to set a Link Code.
Note: A Link Code is the only way to battle with specific players (eg. friends). You do not have to register the player’s Nintendo Switch friend code to play with them.
A stamp will be broadcasted to other players when you start searching for a battle. Other players connected to the Internet will randomly be paired up with you if no Link Code is set or if a random player sets the same Link Code as you.
How To Trade Online in Pokemon Sword and Shield
- Press the Y button.
- Press [+] to connect to the Internet.
- Select Link Trade.
- Select either ‘Start trading’ or ‘Set Link Code’.
The Start trading option sends out a stamp for other players to see your trade request. You will randomly be paired up with another player looking for trade unless you set a Link Code.
Setting a link code lets you connect with another player with the same link code. This makes it possible to trade online with others you know and it isn’t required to add the person as a friend to your Nintendo Switch friend list. Naturally, you would set a unique link code and give it to the other player you wish to trade with.
