Poké Ball Plus

Learn how to use your Poké Ball Plus with Pokémon Sword and Shield! While limited, you can still send a Pokémon on a stroll and get rewards.

Hey there! So you've got that Poké Ball Plus accessory and you're wondering if it's got any use in Pokémon Sword and Shield? Good news – it does! It's not as fancy as it was in Let's Go, Pikachu/Eevee, and you can't actually use it as a controller, but there's still a neat little feature you can access.

Here's how to get started: First, open up your main menu by hitting the X Button while you're out exploring. From there, select Mystery Gift, and then choose Take a Stroll with the Poké Ball Plus. If this is your very first time, the game will prompt you to pick a Pokémon from your party or boxes to send over. Honestly, it doesn't really matter which one you choose, so just go with your favorite or maybe a Pokémon that could use a little virtual walk!

Once you've selected your buddy, they'll be 'transferred' to the Poké Ball Plus. You can then 'play' with your Pokémon by pressing the stick on the Poké Ball Plus inwards and holding it until it lights up. Alternatively, you can just carry the Poké Ball Plus around with you, and your Pokémon will sort of tag along.

When you're done with your stroll, just head back into the game menu, select Take a Stroll with the Poké Ball Plus again, and confirm that you want to bring your Pokémon back. You'll get to see a summary of your activities, and the best part? You'll receive some useful items like Rare Candies and Poké Balls as a reward! Sadly, unlike in Let's Go, your Pokémon won't gain any experience points from these strolls, but hey, free items are always a win!