You can now download Pokémon Sword and Shield from the Nintendo Switch eShop so that you’re nice and ready for launch day on November 15. Or not – I don’t run your life. I barely run my own life!
The games are 9.5GB a piece, they’re compatible with the Switch Pro Controller (unlike Pokémon: Let’s Go), and they don’t support the Nintendo Switch Online’s cloud save backup feature. What do you get for buying digitally? Not much – just a one-time-use Mystery Gift code that’s good for 12 Quick Balls.
In terms of version exclusives, Pokémon Sword has Sirfetch’d, Pokémon Shield has Galarian Ponyta, and aside from the legendaries (Zacian and Zamazenta) and gym differences, that’s the big decision.
You know where my heart lies.
Source: Destructoid Pokemon Sword and Shield can be preloaded