How to Change Language in Pokemon Sword? Explained

Yes, like you, I also wanted to know how to change language in Pokemon Sword after starting my game. I picked English at first, but then I thought playing in Spanish might be fun. So, I looked into it to see if it’s possible.

Pokémon Sword supports many languages. Your language selection happens at the game’s outset. A wide array of regional options is available for players. The language changes the dialogue, menus, and even Pokémon labels.

Let’s figure out how to change language in Pokemon Sword. Plus, we’ll see what impact it has on your gameplay. It’s not simple. But I am here to simplify it. Continue reading for the full breakdown and some useful tips.

How to Change Language in Pokemon Sword?

Sadly, you cannot change language in Pokémon Sword after starting your game. The language you pick at the beginning is locked in. You will need to start a new game to pick a different one.

When you first launch the game, it asks you to choose a language. A warning pops up saying you can’t change it later. This has been true for many Pokemon games, like X and Y, based on what fans say on Reddit.

To switch languages, you must delete your “Save Data.” Go to System Settings on your Nintendo Switch, then Data Management, and select Delete Save Data for Pokémon Sword. After that, start a new game and pick your new language.

Be careful, though. Deleting your save means losing all your progress, like caught Pokémon and story advancements. Back up your favorite Pokemon in Pokemon HOME if you can, before you wipe your data.

Also, read How to Change Your Uniform in Pokémon Sword

Why Does Language Matter in Pokémon Sword?

The language you pick in Pokemon Sword does more than just change the text. It affects your Pokémon’s tags, which is a big deal for collectors. A Pokemon caught in a Japanese game will have a Japanese tag, even if traded to an English game.

This matters for the Masuda Method, a trick to get shiny Pokémon. You need two Pokemon from different language games to breed for better shiny odds. Many players start a new game in another language just for this, according to forums like Project Pokemon.

Language also changes how you name your trainer. If you pick Italian, you can use Italian characters for your name. It makes your game feel more personal, but you are stuck with that choice unless you restart.

Some players enjoy the challenge of playing in a new language. It helps them learn words while hunting bounties in the Galar region. But if you do not like it, you will need to start over to switch back.

What If You Want a Foreign Ditto for Breeding?

A foreign Ditto can help with the Masuda Method, too. If your game is in English, a Ditto from a Spanish or Japanese game boosts shiny odds when breeding. But getting one means starting a new game in another language.

You can’t change your language without deleting your save, as we said. So, set up a new profile on your Switch, start Pokémon Sword, and pick a different language. Play until you catch a Ditto, which you can find in the Lake of Outrage in the Wild Area.

Then, trade that Ditto to your main game. You will need a second Switch or a friend to help with the trade, since there is no GTS in Sword. Fans on GameFAQs suggest this method, though it takes some effort.

It is worth it for shiny hunters. A foreign Ditto can breed with any Pokemon, making it a key tool. Just make sure to back up your main save before trading, in case something goes wrong.

Also, read How to Change Language in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet

Wrapping Up

Changing the language in Pokemon Sword is not easy, but now you know how to change language in Pokemon Sword by starting fresh. It is a disappointment that you can’t switch without losing your progress, but it opens up fun options like the Masuda Method. Pick a language you love, or restart for a new challenge, and enjoy your Galar adventure.

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