More stores to distribute codes to encounter Gigantamax Sandaconda in Max Raid Battles

We reported earlier this week that UK video games retailer GAME will be distributing codes for players to encounter Gigantamax Sandaconda in Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield to commemorate the release of the new Pokémon Trading Card Game expansion, Sword & Shield - Chilling Reign. Several other retailers internationally have now also announced that they will distributing codes for this Pokémon as well. As with all similar distributions, these codes should be available for free without any purchase. The codes are available starting June 18, 2021, while stock lasts.

Thus far, we've confirmed the codes will be distributed in the following countries and retailers:

• Australia: EB Games
• Austria: GameStop (online distribution through their website)
• France: Micromania (online distribution through their website - account required)
• Germany: GameStop (online distribution through their website)
• Ireland: GameStop
• Italy: GameStop (online distribution through their website)
• Netherlands: GameMania (online distribution through their website)
• New Zealand: EB Games
• Switzerland: GameStop (online distribution through their website)
• United Kingdom: GAME (online distribution through their website)

How to receive the Dynamax Crystal via Mystery Gift:

1. Launch Pokémon Sword or Pokémon Shield from the Nintendo Switch HOME Menu.
2. Press the X button during gameplay to access the in-game menu.
3. Select MYSTERY GIFT.
4. Select Get a Mystery Gift.
5. Select Get with Code/Password.
6. Enter the code and select OK.
7. Select Dynamax Crystal Gift.
8. Watch as the gift arrives in your game.
9. Be sure to save your game after receiving your gift.

Then, follow these steps to face Gigantamax Sandaconda in a Max Raid Battle:

1. Go to the Watchtower Lair, a large Pokémon Den that lies at the base of the Watchtower Ruins in the Wild Area.​
2. When you're in front of the Watchtower Lair, select the Dynamax Crystal in your Bag and choose to use it. A large pillar of light will appear coming from the Watchtower Lair.​
3. Press the A Button to investigate the active den and choose to challenge the Gigantamax Sandaconda within. You can invite other players to join you or start the battle with NPC Trainers.​
4. If Gigantamax Sandaconda is defeated, all participants in the battle will have a chance to catch it.​

You can attempt this Max Raid Battle as many times as it takes to win until midnight on the day the Dynamax Crystal was used. You can use the code for each Dynamax Crystal only once and in only one game. Be aware that you can't receive the reward more than once.