In Pokemon Sword and Shield, players that aren't voraciously searching for Shiny Pokemon are finding themselves perplexed at the seeming absence of the Pokemon Shedinja. Shedinja is a dual-type Bug/Dark Pokemon, who first made an appearance on the Game Boy Advance all the way back in Pokemon's third generation.

Luckily, this Pokemon has made a triumphant return in Pokemon Sword and Shield, but how does one go about obtaining the elusive Pokemon? While it isn't abundantly clear, and can also be easily botched without the proper know-how, Shedinja is very much still attainable in the new games.

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Obtaining and Leveling Nincada

Before Pokemon Sword and Shield players can obtain Shedinja, they must first capture Nincada. The best way to do this is to travel along Route 5, where players have a 5% chance at encountering Nincada randomly. If players possess an aversion to Route 5, they can also make their way to the Wild Area, when during a sandstorm around West Lake Axewell or South Lake Miloch they have a chance of encountering Nincada.

After taking the time and finally capturing Nincada, Pokemon Sword and Shield players can proceed to play the game and level Nincada up as they would any of their other Pokemon, and for the less patient among Pokemon Sword and Shield players, XP candies may also be utilized. Players just need to make they stop right before level 20.

shedinja pokemon sword shield

Evolution, and the Subsequent Split

As Pokemon Sword and Shield players inch closer to level 20 with their Nincada's, they must first follow a crucial step before commencing the evolution. Players must first remove a party Pokemon to create a free and empty sixth slot.

Once the slot is opened, Pokemon Sword and Shield players are free to hit level 20 with Nincada, and watch the ensuing evolution gleefully. As expected, Nincata will turn into Ninjask. But once they check their previously empty slot, they will now see Shedinja kicking back and relaxing.

Utilizing Shedinja

With their newfound Shedinja, Pokemon Sword and Shield players are now free to utilize this highly coveted and effective Pokemon. Shedinja possesses a myriad of abilities, most notable of which is Wonder Guard. Wonder Guard is a fantastic ability as it prevents Shedinja from taking damage, unless of course a super-effective move is used against it.

This means Shedinja can be extremely useful in Gym Battles or the Battle Tower, as it can powerfully withstand attacks.

Pokemon Sword and Shield are available now for Nintendo Switch.

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