Pokémon Sword and Shield kicks-off by televising the Gym League. Though the Galar region follows a similar formula to that of its predecessors, it tells its own story.
Gym Challenge Registration
Bede, a pompous challenger, brushes past Hop during gym registration, making a distasteful first impression. Bede’s endorsed by the Chairman and thus thinks he’s above other Challengers.
In the Budew Drop Inn, players encounter Team Yell as they heckle the concierge. Another challenger, Marnie arrives apologizing for Team Yell’s actions once players defeat them- they are her riotous fan club. Marnie’s later encountered again at the inn, battling players to test her skills while analyzing their rivalry potential. After losing, she takes on a tougher persona but isn’t vindictive like Bede. Marnie’s intentions remain unclear for quite a while still.
Chairman Rose & Oleana
Rose and Oleana are spotted in Hulbury surrounded by fans. Bede is there, sucking up to Chairman Rose who tactlessly forgets the boy’s name- insensitive as he’d initially taken the orphaned Bede under his wing. This is the first time players meet Rose outside of televised events. His company supplies electricity to Galar.
