Zarude, the mystical “Rogue Monkey Pokémon,” has captured the hearts of fans since its debut in the Pokémon anime movie Zarude: The Phantom Pokémon. With its striking black and green appearance and unique dual typing (Dark and Grass), Zarude stands out in the Pokémon universe as a legendary creature shrouded in mystery. For players of Pokémon Sword, the natural question arises: Where is Zarude in Pokémon Sword? This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about obtaining Zarude in Pokémon Sword, including event distributions, gameplay mechanics, and alternate methods to add this powerful Pokémon to your team.
Understanding Zarude: A Legendary Pokémon
Before diving into where you can find Zarude, it’s important to understand what makes this Pokémon so special.
Zarude’s Origin and Lore
Zarude first appeared in the Pokémon universe through a special anime movie released in 2020 titled Zarude: The Phantom Pokémon. This story introduced viewers to a secluded forest where Zarude lived, protecting a troop of Pokémon from threats. Unlike most Pokémon, Zarude exhibits human-like intelligence and emotional depth, making it a revered and almost mythical creature within the Pokémon world.
In gameplay, Zarude embodies strength, agility, and resilience. It is classified as a Mythical Pokémon, placing it in the same tier as rare event-exclusive Pokémon such as Mew, Celebi, and Victini.
Base Stats and Abilities
Zarude’s competitive edge comes from its impressive stat line:
- HP: 90
- Attack: 120
- Defense: 100
- Special Attack: 70
- Special Defense: 95
- Speed: 105
- Total Base Stats: 580
With high Attack, Speed, and solid defenses, Zarude excels as a physical sweeper or tank in both casual and competitive play. Its Ability, Leaf Guard, prevents status conditions during strong sunlight—making it a great fit for sun-based teams.
Zarude Forms: Dada and Ordinary
Zarude exists in two forms:
- Ordinary Zarude: The standard version available through most distributions.
- Dada Zarude: A special form initially given out as a promo through My Nintendo. This version wears a leaf-like “turban” and carries different IVs and a unique moveset.
Note that Dada Zarude cannot be obtained through normal gameplay and is tied to a one-time distribution event.
Zarude in Pokémon Sword: Is It Naturally Available?
The straightforward answer: Zarude is not naturally available in Pokémon Sword through normal gameplay. That means you cannot encounter it in the wild, battle it in legendary encounters, or receive it through in-game story events. Unlike legendary Pokémon such as Zamazenta or Eternatus, Zarude was never programmed into the base game for random encounters or quest-based captures.
Instead, Zarude is classified as a Mythical Event Pokémon, meaning its distribution is limited to special promotional events, usually tied to real-world dates, merchandise, or digital campaigns.
How to Get Zarude in Pokémon Sword
Despite not being available through regular gameplay, Pokémon Sword players have had (and may still have) opportunities to obtain Zarude through time-limited distributions.
My Nintendo Promotion: The Dada Zarude Event
One of the most notable ways to obtain Zarude was through a special My Nintendo rewards program.
In February 2021, Nintendo launched a giveaway allowing players who owned Pokémon Sword or Shield to receive a special Dada Zarude by linking their game to their My Nintendo account. This event required players to:
- Have an active My Nintendo account.
- Link their Nintendo Switch account to the game.
- Redeem the reward within the specified time frame.
The Dada Zarude distributed through My Nintendo came with the following details:
- Level: 50
- Ability: Leaf Guard
- Moves: Wood Hammer, Frenzy Plant, Jungle Healing, Close Combat
- IVs: 31 in all stats (Perfect IVs)
- Origin: Marked as a special event Pokémon
Although this event has officially ended, players who redeemed it during the active period still have their Dada Zarude in their games.
Post-Event Redistribution: Codes and Friend Transfers
After promotional events end, official distributions of Zarude typically cease. However, legitimate ways still exist to obtain Zarude:
Trading with Other Players
If you missed the My Nintendo event, you can acquire Zarude through Pokémon Home and player-to-player trading.
Pokémon Home, the cloud-based storage service for Pokémon games, allows players to transfer certain event Pokémon between compatible titles. While Zarude itself cannot be transferred into Pokémon Sword from previous generations (due to being introduced in Generation 8), players who obtained Zarude in Sword can store it in Pokémon Home and trade it to others.
To trade Zarude:
- Connect your *Pokémon Sword* to Pokémon Home.
- Send Zarude to your Pokémon Home Box.
- Use the GTS (Global Trade System) or direct friend trades to acquire it.
Note: Always verify the legitimacy of the Zarude you’re receiving. Illegitimate Pokémon, especially those from hacks or cheat devices, may be banned from online play.
Past Mystery Gift Codes
On rare occasions, The Pokémon Company releases Mystery Gift distribution codes through anniversary events or app-based promotions. These codes can be entered in-game under Mystery Gift > Receive via Code.
However, as of now, there has been no public-wide Mystery Gift code distributed for Zarude in Pokémon Sword. Any such claims online are typically outdated, region-specific, or scams.
Why Zarude Isn’t in the Wild in Pokémon Sword
Understanding why Zarude isn’t obtainable through traditional exploration helps frame its exclusivity.
Mythical vs. Legendary Pokémon
It’s important to distinguish between Legendary and Mythical Pokémon:
| Category | Availability | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Legendary | Usually obtainable in each game version through special quests | Kubfu, Regieleki, Zarude (via event) |
| Mythical | Only obtainable through special events, promotions, or distributions | Dada Zarude, Mew, Meloetta, Victini |
Zarude falls firmly in the Mythical category. Like other Mythical Pokémon, it is not intended to be caught or battled in-game unless distributed through an official external method.
Story Integration and Design Intent
Zarude’s lore is deeply tied to a specific region—a jungle not present in the Galar map featured in Pokémon Sword. The forest of Zarude, as shown in the anime, is isolated and mystical, which would be difficult to integrate into the Galar story without contradicting canon.
Game Freak intentionally made Zarude a special event Pokémon to enhance its rarity and align with its introduction through a cinematic release. This strategy also encourages community engagement with official Pokémon events, merchandise, and digital content.
Game Balance Considerations
Zarude’s impressive 120 Attack and 105 Speed stats place it among the stronger non-legendary Mythical Pokémon. Game designers often avoid making such powerful Pokémon easily accessible in the base game to maintain balance in story mode and online play.
By restricting Zarude to events, the developers ensure it remains a **prized addition** rather than a common competitive staple.
Is It Still Possible to Get Zarude in 2024 and Beyond?
While there are no active distribution events for Zarude in *Pokémon Sword* as of 2024, future opportunities are not impossible.
Potential for Future Events
The Pokémon Company occasionally **revives old event distributions**, especially during franchise milestones like the 25th or 30th anniversary. If Zarude is included in a future event, it could be distributed through:
- My Nintendo reward campaigns
- Pokémon Center merchandise purchases
- In-game Mystery Gift codes
- Special Pokémon GO crossover events
However, due to its Generation 8 origin, Zarude is **unlikely to appear in Pokémon GO** or be transferable from earlier generations. It can only officially appear in *Sword*, *Shield*, *Brilliant Diamond*, *Shining Pearl*, and *Legends: Arceus*—though none of these versions offer in-game encounters.
Checking for Active Codes
To increase your chances of obtaining Zarude, keep an eye out for official announcements. Follow these steps regularly:
- Check the official Pokémon website and news section.
- Follow @Pokemon on Twitter and The Pokémon Company International.
- Subscribe to the Pokémon Trainer Club newsletter.
- Monitor My Nintendo rewards for new Pokémon promotions.
Even if Zarude doesn’t return soon, staying informed ensures you don’t miss the next potential event.
Using Zarude in Gameplay: Tips and Strategies
Once you’ve obtained Zarude, knowing how to use it effectively can transform your gameplay.
Best Moveset for Zarude
Zarude’s powerful physical stats make it ideal for high-damage physical moves. Consider this optimal moveset:
- Close Combat – High-powered Fighting-type STAB move.
- Wood Hammer – Strong Grass-type STAB, though it causes recoil.
- Venoshock – Effective against poisoned foes; synergizes with status strategies.
- Iron Head or Knock Off – Coverage moves for Steel and Dark resistances.
Alternatively, using **Swords Dance** with supportive moves like **Jungle Healing** (exclusive to event Zarude) can turn Zarude into a formidable sweeper.
Team Synergy and Sun Teams
With the **Leaf Guard** ability, Zarude thrives in sun-activated teams. Pair it with Pokémon like:
- Ninetales (Alolan or Standard) – Summons harsh sunlight with Drought.
- Torkoal or Victini – Reliable sun starters in competitive play.
- Ferrothorn – Tanks hits while setting up hazards.
Under sunlight, Zarude becomes immune to status conditions like burn, paralysis, and sleep, significantly increasing its durability.
Recommended EV Spread
For competitive use, a recommended EV (Effort Value) setup is:
| Stat | EVs | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Attack | 252 | Maximize damage output |
| Speed | 252 | Outspeed key threats |
| HP | 4 | Minimal investment for extra bulk |
A Jolly Nature (+Speed, -Sp. Atk) is ideal for balancing offense and speed.
Common Misconceptions About Zarude in Sword
With so much speculation online, it’s crucial to dispel common myths about Zarude’s availability.
Myth: Zarude Appears in the Crown Tundra
Despite the expansion’s wealth of legendary Pokémon, Zarude does not appear in The Crown Tundra DLC. Unlike Regis or Calyrex, Zarude wasn’t included in the Max Lair Raids or legendary questlines.
Myth: You Can Catch Zarude with a Poké Ball in a Secret Area
There are no secret maps, warps, or glitches in *Pokémon Sword* that spawn Zarude. Claims of “hidden forests” or “debug rooms” are based on fan speculation or mods.
Important: Using hacks or cheats to obtain Zarude may result in a banned game or account, especially if used online. Always use official methods.
Myth: All Versions of Zarude Are the Same
Many assume Zarude is just another Dark/Grass Pokémon, but **Dada Zarude** has story significance and exclusive moves. Additionally, event-distributed Zarude has special ribbons and is recognized in competitive databases as legitimate.
The Future of Zarude in Pokémon Games
While *Pokémon Sword* may be the only current legitimate route, Zarude could reappear in future titles.
Potential Appearances in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet
Though not confirmed, Mythical Pokémon like Zarude are often rotated into new games through special events. If Pokémon 9 (Scarlet/Violet) receives a similar promotion, Zarude could be obtainable again—albeit still through events.
Shiny Zarude and Future Possibilities
As of now, **no Shiny Zarude has been officially distributed**, making it one of the rarest unobtainable Shiny Mythicals. Fans speculate that a Shiny version may appear during a major anniversary event, similar to how Shiny Celebi and Shiny Mew were eventually released.
Game Freak typically delays Shiny event Pokémon to increase long-term engagement, so Shiny Zarude could still be years away.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Pursuing Zarude?
While Zarude is not easily obtainable in *Pokémon Sword*, its unique design, compelling backstory, and competitive strength make it a sought-after Pokémon for collectors and battlers alike.
If you missed the Dada Zarude event, don’t lose hope. Stay connected to official Pokémon channels and participate in future events. Alternatively, trading through Pokémon Home with a trusted player remains a legitimate and rewarding option.
Zarude isn’t just a Pokémon—it’s a symbol of dedication, rarity, and the magic of event-exclusive rewards. Whether you’re completing your Pokédex or building a championship-winning team, Zarude is a powerful and prestigious addition that embodies the spirit of adventure in the Pokémon world.
By understanding where Zarude came from, how it can be obtained, and how to use it effectively, trainers can embrace this legendary rogue monkey as more than just a powerful battler—but as a true legend of the Pokémon universe.
Where can I find Zarude in Pokémon Sword?
Zarude cannot be found in Pokémon Sword through normal gameplay. It is an event-exclusive Mythical Pokémon that was distributed via special promotional events tied to the release of the Pokémon: Twilight Wings anime series. To obtain Zarude in Pokémon Sword, trainers must have participated in one of these limited-time events or received the Pokémon through a distribution code, typically available during specific promotional windows.
If the event is not currently active, you will not be able to encounter Zarude in the wild or through standard in-game methods. However, occasionally Nintendo and The Pokémon Company re-release event distributions, so it’s worth checking official announcements, the Pokémon website, or My Nintendo news for updates. Additionally, trading with another player who owns Zarude is a viable option if you missed the original event.
Is Zarude available in Pokémon Sword without an event?
No, Zarude is not available in Pokémon Sword without participating in an official event distribution. Unlike legendary Pokémon such as Zacian or Zamazenta, which are part of the main story, Zarude is strictly event-only and cannot be encountered through exploration, Max Raids, or other standard game content. It was specifically designed as a promotional Mythical Pokémon to celebrate the Pokémon: Twilight Wings series.
There are no hidden methods or cheats built into the game that allow players to obtain Zarude without the event. Attempts to use unofficial means, such as fan-made mods or third-party tools, may result in bans or corrupted saves, especially if playing online. The safest and most legitimate way to get Zarude is through an official event or by trading with a friend who received it during one.
What version of Zarude is available in Pokémon Sword?
The version of Zarude distributed for Pokémon Sword and Shield is known as “Dada Zarude,” which appears in its alternate form as seen in the Pokémon: Twilight Wings anime. This form differs from the standard Zarude typically encountered in events, featuring a unique backstory where Zarude raises a human child. The Dada Zarude event distribution includes this special narrative element and specific moves to reflect its character.
Dada Zarude comes with a unique moveset, including Jungle Healing, which restores status conditions and heals allies in double battles. It is always level 70 and comes in its unique form, which resembles a more rugged, protective appearance compared to the regular Zarude. This version emphasizes Zarude’s role as a guardian, adding sentimental value for collectors and fans of the anime series.
Can I trade for Zarude if I missed the event?
Yes, if you missed the official event distribution, you can still obtain Zarude in Pokémon Sword through in-game trading. Any player who received Zarude during the event can trade it to you, provided both parties have sufficient friendship or access to the GTS (Global Trade System) or direct Local or Surprise Trade options. Trading is often the most reliable method to acquire event-exclusive Pokémon after the promotion has ended.
To complete the trade, ensure you have enough space in your party or Pokémon Boxes and that your game is connected to the internet. You may also need to meet certain friendship requirements if using Pokémon Home, especially for event Pokémon with special ribbons or distributions. Keep in mind that some players may be hesitant to trade rare Mythical Pokémon, so building trust or offering a valuable trade in return can improve your chances.
What are the stats and abilities of Zarude?
Zarude is a pure Grass/Dark-type Pokémon with impressive base stats totaling 600, making it a strong contender in both competitive and story-based play. Its highest stats are Attack (120) and Special Attack (120), followed by Speed (100), indicating it can serve as a fast and powerful offensive threat. Its Defense and Special Defense are slightly lower, but its HP is a solid 90, providing decent durability for its role.
Zarude’s ability is Limber, which prevents it from being paralyzed—a valuable trait in battles where status effects can hinder performance. It learns several powerful moves through its event distribution, including Power Whip, Dark Pulse, and Jungle Healing. With its high offensive stats and unique typing, Zarude is excellent for countering Fairy, Ground, and Rock types while being weak to Flying, Fire, Ice, Bug, and especially Fairy-type moves.
When was the Zarude event available for Pokémon Sword?
The Zarude event for Pokémon Sword and Shield was initially available from October 15 to November 1, 2020. During this window, players could input a special Mystery Gift code to receive Dada Zarude directly into their game. The event coincided with the release of the Pokémon: Twilight Wings anime, celebrating the story of Zarude raising a human child in the forest.
There was a second chance event from June 8 to June 30, 2021, allowing players who missed the first distribution to obtain Zarude. These events were exclusive to players who registered on the official Pokémon website or followed promotional instructions. As of now, there has been no re-release, but it’s possible that future anniversaries or promotional events could bring it back temporarily.
Do I need Pokémon Home to get Zarude in Pokémon Sword?
Pokémon Home is not required to receive Zarude if you’re obtaining it directly through the Mystery Gift feature in Pokémon Sword. If an event is active and you have the correct code, you can redeem it directly in-game via the Mystery Gift option under the main menu. This process works independently of Pokémon Home and does not require any cloud-based service.
However, if you plan to trade for Zarude from another player, Pokémon Home becomes essential for transferring the Pokémon between games, especially if the other player is using a different Pokémon title. Additionally, Pokémon Home helps manage event distributions and keeps your collection synchronized across multiple devices. It’s a useful tool for completing your Pokédex, particularly for rare and event-exclusive Pokémon like Zarude.