Time once again to check in on Pokemon Sword and Shield. There's some pretty big things going down, and we've detailed what to expect below.

VGC Ruleset

- Series 8 ruleset kicks off February 1st, 2021
- you will be able to use 1 of the normally Restricted Legendary Pokémon of Mewtwo, Lugia, Ho-Oh, Kyogre, Groudon, Rayquaza, Dialga, Palkia, Giratina, Reshiram, Zekrom, Kyurem, Xerneas, Yveltal, Zygarde, Cosmog, Cosmoem, Solgaleo, Lunala, Necrozma, Zacian, Zamazenta, Eternatus, Calyrex
- Mythical Pokémon are still banned
- other standard rules apply, and this is for both Doubles and Singles

Ban wave

- a new ban wave is coming to Pokémon Sword & Shield and Pokémon HOME
- players are using altered data and causing issues
- a new ban wave will block those who are modifying their save data
- banned players will be restricted from online play in Sword & Shield, can't use trading features, and can't use Pokémon HOME
- bans can be temporary or permanent, and no refunds will be issued
- more action will be taken if necessary