8.04
Nintendo
Pokémon Sword
Looking to add some Poké-flair to your Nintendo Switch lineup? 'Pokémon Sword' serves up a mix of nostalgia and new features that might charm you, but it's far from perfect. If you're a die-hard fan craving innovative gameplay, you might find its short storyline and lackluster post-game content a letdown. For a more balanced Pokémon experience, consider checking out 'Pokémon Legends: Arceus' or the expansion packs only if you really need more Pokémon in your life.
Model: TBDUPC: 45496596583
Where to Buy
Newest price seen: Jun 26, 2026
| Retailer | Price | Last seen | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
M markonshop | $2.34 | Sep 1, 2025, may have changed | Buy Now |
A Abttvs | $18.00 | May 8, 2025, may have changed | Buy Now |
M My Store | $18.00 | May 8, 2025, may have changed | Buy Now |
M My Store | $18.00 | May 8, 2025, may have changed | Buy Now |
M My Store | $18.00 | May 8, 2025, may have changed | Buy Now |
Prices are collected from retailer listings; each row shows the date we last saw that price. Return and shipping terms are each store's standard policy from our retailer research (April 2026 to May 2026). Some products and categories have different terms, so check with the store before you buy.
Used & Refurbished
✨ See 11 used & refurbished prices with ShopSavvy ProGet the app →Price history summary
Lowest new price we recorded at major retailers (Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, Target, The Home Depot and Lowes) in the last 90 days: $51.80 at Amazon on Sep 19, 2026.
Range over the last 12 months: $45.99 (Walmart, Dec 14, 2025) to $73.48 (Walmart, Dec 13, 2025). Based on 168 recorded prices since Oct 14, 2025 for offers sold by these retailers themselves (not marketplace sellers). Summary as of Oct 13, 2026.
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Pros
- •Gym challenges provide engaging, unique objectives beyond just battling, enhancing traditional gym experiences.
- •Dynamaxing introduces a strategic layer to battles, upping intensity and adaptability.
- •Freedom to explore the Wild Area, loaded with hidden items and diverse Pokémon, breaks from the series' linear progression.
- •New Pokémon designs are charming, and new typings add depth to gameplay strategy.
- •Impressive animations and improved graphics, especially in towns, caves, and routes, enrich the visual experience.
- •The fantastic musical score, particularly gym tracks, adds to the game's excitement.
- •The multiplayer component, especially in raid battles, fosters engaging and rewarding experiences.
- •Simple yet profound game mechanics suit both new and seasoned trainers alike.
- •Pokémon visible in the wild before encounters make capturing more interactive.
- •The game is perfect for those easing back into gaming, offering cozy and approachable gameplay.
Cons
- •The game is somewhat brief for a mainline Pokémon installment and lacks substantial post-game content.
- •The story can feel unimaginative, with juvenile dialogue and excessive hand-holding.
- •The online functionality is subpar, making teamwork in Wild Area raids frustrating.
- •Excludes a significant number of Pokémon from past generations, disappointing long-time fans.
- •City and town designs are overly simplistic and linear, limiting exploration.
- •Catch rates for Gigantamaxed Pokémon are frustratingly low.
- •Insufficient innovation in gameplay leaves it feeling like a uninspired rehash of earlier titles.
- •The repetitive nature of certain gameplay elements, such as sending Pokémon on jobs, detracts from engagement.
- •Trading systems are cumbersome, complicating interactions with friends.
- •Reused animations and missing features from previous games can make the experience feel lacking.
Bottom Line
While "Pokémon Sword" brings some elements of innovation, like the Wild Area and Dynamaxing, it might disappoint those expecting a major evolution in the series. With its short storyline and exclusion of familiar Pokémon, it doesn't quite deliver the depth some fans desire. If you're looking for a more nostalgic yet fresh experience, the expansion packs or even "Pokémon Legends: Arceus" could offer a fuller dive into Pokémon adventures.
What Reviewers Are Saying
Praised
gameplay is fun2%
wild area is fantastic2%
graphics look nice6%
new pokemon designs are nice4%
music is great2%
Criticized
game is short6%
not much post game content6%
catch rates on gigantamaxed pokemon are low2%
cities and towns are linear2%
story is disappointing4%
Professional Reviews
Pokémon Sword Review
polygon.com·Cameron Faulkner·1 years ago
Pokémon Sword and Shield is Not a Metaphor for Brexit
kotaku.com·Tim Rogers·6 years ago
Pokemon Sword and Shield Review
ign.com·Casey DeFreitas·6 years ago
Pokémon Sword Review
nintendolife.com·Indielink·6 years ago
Pokémon Sword Review
techradar.com·Emma Boyle
📚More About Pokémon Sword
Discussion
🔍About This Page
ShopSavvy compares prices across thousands of retailers so you always get the best deal. Prices are collected from retailer listings, and each one shows the date we last saw it. Our expert reviews and community discussion help you make informed buying decisions.