Local trade Sword and Shield

In this article, you'll learn how to trade or battle with another player in Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield.

• 2-4 players with a copy of Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield can battle or trade with each other online or via local wireless connection.
• A Nintendo Switch Online membership is required to use the online multiplayer features.
• The option to battle or trade Pokémon becomes available after you have received the Dynamax Band (after about one hour of gameplay).
• You will not be able to connect with players you have added to your Block List. From the Y-Comm Menu, select Profile, then press the + Button to view and manage your list of blocked players.

Complete these steps

1. Launch Pokémon Sword or Pokémon Shield from the Nintendo Switch HOME Menu.

1. What do you want to do?Trade Pokémon Battle Another Player Online Ranked Battles (Battle Stadium)
2. 1. Press the Y Button at any point during gameplay to access the Y-Comm Menu.
      • This menu becomes available after you receive the Dynamax Band in the game.
   2. Press the + Button to toggle between Local or Internet communication.
      • The current communication mode appears in the upper-right corner of the screen (Local Communication or Internet).
   3. Select Link Trade.

   Do you want to trade with a friend or trade with anyone?Friend Anyone

   1. Press the Y Button at any point during gameplay to access the Y-Comm Menu.
      • This menu becomes available after you receive the Dynamax Band in the game.
   2. Press the + Button to toggle between Local or Internet communication.
   3. The current communication mode appears in the upper-right corner of the screen (Local Communication or Internet).
3. Select Link Battle.