Pokemon Sword and Shield: How to Get Zarude

A brand new mythical Pokemon was revealed for Pokemon Day 2020. Here's what you need to know.

Guide by Jake Green, Guides Editor

Updated on 22 May 2020

The legendary Pokemon Zarude was recently revealed for Pokemon Sword and Shield, a monkey with long teeth and a rather intimidating appearance. We'll reveal everything we know so far about how to catch Zarude and all the various abilities it has, as well as when it's being released.

On this page:

How to Get Zarude in Pokemon Sword and Shield
When is Zarude Being Released?
What Type is Zarude?
Leaf Guard Ability
Is Zarude a Mythical Pokemon?

How to Get Zarude in Pokemon Sword and Shield

Right now there is no way to catch Zarude in Pokemon Sword and Shield, with the new Pokemon announced some time ago with an introductory trailer. However, it's likely that the character will be added as a promotional tie-in for the upcoming Pokemon film, "Pokemon The Movie: Koko", in which Zarude makes its first on-screen appearance.

When is Zarude Being Released?

Zarude has no official release date as of yet, though the most recent Japanese trailer for the film says it will release on July 10. However, these is no scheduled film release date for areas outside of Japan, so it's uncertain when exactly we can expect this rather ominous monkey.

Of course, Zarude isn't the only Pokemon set to be added to the games, you can check out upcoming legendaries and mythical Pokemon in this guide.

What Type is Zarude?

Zarude is a dark/grass type. This means it will be effective against ghost, psychic, ground, rock and water types. It will be weak to bug, fairy, fighting, fire, flying, ice and poison types. For a more detailed breakdown of type matchups, you can head over to our Type Chart.

Leaf Guard Ability

Zarude has the Leaf Guard ability. During harsh sunlight, Leaf Guard prevents Zarude from being hit by non-volatile status conditions and Yawn. It also prevents the use of rest (source).

Is Zarude a Mythical Pokemon?

Zarude is classified as a mythical Pokemon. This powerful branch of Pokemon is extremely rare in Pokemon games. Other Mythical Pokemon include Mew, Victini and Celebi. Zarude is the first Gen 8 Mythical Pokemon to be introduced. Once The Pokemon Company gives us more info on Zarude we'll be sure to add to this page.

For more on Pokemon Sword and Shield be sure to check out Nadia's review. There's also Hirun's news item detailing Galarian Zapdos, Moltres and Articuno.