Beginning the Game

This page explains what to do when you first start a game of Pokémon Sword or Pokémon Shield.

The character photo selection screen from the beginning of Pokémon Sword and Shield.

Choose Your Language

When you first start the game, you are asked to choose the language that you would like to play in.

Choose Your Appearance

You are shown eight different photos. Choose the photo that matches the appearance that you want your character to have.

Choose Your Name

Choose the name that you want your character to have. The official names for your character in Pokémon Sword and Shield are Victor and Gloria.

Confirm Your Choice

You won't be able to change the language that you play in, so if you want to choose a different language, select "No" to go back and change it. If you are happy with your chosen language, appearance, and name, choose "Yes" to start the game. There will be a cutscene. Afterward, you will be in your house in Postwick.