Your guide to the midnight release of 'Pokémon Sword and Shield' at retail
Which major retail chains are doing midnight releases for 'Pokémon'?
So, you’ve decided which version of the new Pokémon to buy. Now the question is: Where the heck are you going to get it? If you still relish the thrill of a midnight release and prefer a hard copy over digital downloads, some major retail chains are still out there able to satisfy your incurable Poké-mania.
Coming November 14 to Nintendo Switch, Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield brings Pokémon trainers to the Britain-esque region of Galar to once again be the best that no one ever was. As is standard in most major game releases, retailers have their own bundles that include varying goodies with your copy of the game. And some of them will allow you to pick them up at midnight, because who wants to sleep when you can catch and train Pokémon instead?
Here’s a breakdown of most major U.S. retailers and what they’re including with your copy of Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield.
Does GameStop have a Pokémon Sword and Shield midnight release?
What’s the pre-order bonus? One of the biggest video game retailers in North America isn’t just offering Pokémon Sword and Shield, it’s also offering a double-pack of both games, plus a double-sided wall banner.
Is it open at midnight? Not all GameStops will open at midnight. Based on several calls we made to our own local stores, only GameStops with enough pre-orders and/or not inside a mall (which have to stay open to accommodate the midnight shoppers) will be open for Pokémon. It’s important to call your local GameStop ahead of time to confirm whether they’ll be open.
Does Walmart have a Pokémon Sword and Shield midnight release?
What’s the pre-order bonus? Like GameStop, Walmart is also selling a two-game pack. But instead of a poster, you get a keychain of the three starters. Also, if you pick up your game between November 16-25, you’ll get a code for an exclusive Trainer outfit. Here’s how to redeem your code.
Is it open at midnight? Like GameStop, call your local Walmart ahead of time.
Does Target have a Pokémon Sword and Shield midnight release?
What’s the pre-order bonus? Target, or Targét if you’re my mom, is selling the two-game pack in an exclusive steelbook case.
Is it open at midnight? Once again, call your local Target. But some Redditors have noticed that Target rarely does midnight releases and have more or less abandoned the concept franchise wide.
Box art for the 'Pokémon Sword and Shield' double-pack, which accompanies several retail-exclusive bonuses.
Does Amazon have a Pokémon Sword and Shield midnight release?
What’s the pre-order bonus? Prime members get a $10 credit for use on Amazon.com. And if you pre-order the double pack, you’ll get a code for a gold backpack (“Gold Studded Leather Case”) to let your Trainer look fly as hell.
Is it open at midnight? It’s Amazon, my dude.
Does Nintendo NY have a Pokémon Sword and Shield midnight release?
What’s the pre-order bonus? If you’re able to fly out to the Nintendo store in Manhattan, well, that’s your bragging right. Otherwise, there are no exclusive bonuses for Pokémon Sword and Shield.
Is it open at midnight? Yes! But you need to register ahead of time in order to guarantee yourself a copy.
Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield will be available on Nintendo Switch on November 14.
