Hey Pokemon fans! Ever since the release of Pokemon Sword and Shield, a big question has been bouncing around: Is Eternatus really the third legendary? We're diving deep into this topic today, looking at the evidence, the game's story, and what makes a Pokemon legendary in the first place. So, grab your favorite snack, and let's get started!

The Legendary Lineup: Setting the Stage

Before we jump into Eternatus, let's quickly recap what makes a Pokemon a legendary. Generally, these are super rare Pokemon with unique designs, incredible power, and often, a major role in the game's story. Think about the cover legendaries: they're usually the ones you see front and center, like Solgaleo and Lunala in Pokemon Sun and Moon. They often represent the core themes of the game – things like the sun and moon, time and space, or creation itself. They also have the highest base stats and are hard to catch. When you're playing the game, you're constantly hearing about them from the NPCs, or from cutscenes. They're basically the rockstars of the Pokemon world!

In Pokemon Sword and Shield, we have two main cover legendaries: Zacian and Zamazenta. These two are the stars of the show, featured prominently on the game's box art and central to the story of the Galar region. They are the heroes of the story, and the ones that you end up catching at the end of the game. They are also the two most powerful Pokemon in the game. They are both Fairy-type Pokemon, and are known for their incredible speed and attack stats. They also have unique abilities that make them even more powerful in battle.

Then there's Eternatus. This gigantic, cosmic-looking Pokemon is the source of the Dynamax phenomenon, and it's absolutely crucial to the game's plot. You'll encounter it during the climax of the story, facing it in an epic battle that could determine the fate of Galar. This is where it gets interesting, and where the debate really begins. Is Eternatus just a super-powered threat, or does it deserve a spot among the true legends?

The Role of Cover Legendaries

Cover legendaries are the face of the game, and they are also the most powerful Pokemon in the game. They are often the ones that you end up catching at the end of the game, and they are the ones that you use to battle the Elite Four and Champion. They are also the ones that are featured on the box art, and they are the ones that are used to promote the game. They are the ones that are most sought after by players, and they are the ones that are most likely to be used in competitive play. They are the ones that are most likely to be featured in the anime and manga. They are the ones that are most likely to be used in the trading card game. They are the ones that are most likely to be used in the merchandise.

Eternatus: The Evidence

So, why do people consider Eternatus a legendary? Let's break down the evidence.

• Story Significance: Guys, this Pokemon is central to the story. It's the reason Dynamaxing is happening, and it nearly destroys the Galar region. The plot practically revolves around stopping it. Eternatus is the big bad, the ultimate threat. Without Eternatus, the story of Pokemon Sword and Shield wouldn't exist.
• Unique Design: Eternatus is unlike any other Pokemon we've seen. Its cosmic design, its gigantic size, and its ability to transform into Eternamax Eternatus are all things that set it apart. This is a visual indicator that it is a legendary.
• Powerhouse Stats: Eternatus boasts some seriously impressive stats, especially in its Eternamax form. It's a powerhouse, capable of dishing out massive damage and taking a beating. It can wipe out your whole team if you're not careful. Its power level certainly aligns with that of a legendary Pokemon.
• Rarity: You only encounter Eternatus a couple of times in the game, and catching it is a major event. This rarity is a key characteristic of legendary Pokemon.

Eternatus's Role in the Game

Eternatus is a major threat to the Galar region, and it is also the source of the Dynamax phenomenon. The Dynamax phenomenon is a new feature in Pokemon Sword and Shield, and it allows Pokemon to grow to gigantic sizes during battle. This is a very powerful ability, and it can be used to turn the tide of battle. Eternatus is also the source of the Gigantamax phenomenon, which is a more powerful version of Dynamaxing.

The game's narrative makes Eternatus a clear antagonist and a major player in the climax. This central role in the storyline is what leads many fans to consider it a legendary.

The Counterarguments: Why It Might Not Be a Traditional Legendary

Okay, so Eternatus has a lot going for it. But there are also arguments to be made against it being considered a traditional legendary.

• Catching Mechanics: Unlike Zacian and Zamazenta, you don't really catch Eternatus in the traditional sense. You defeat it, but it's more like a plot device than a collectible Pokemon. This is different from the way you catch the other legendary Pokemon in the game. This can be seen as a difference between the other legendary Pokemon in the game.
• No Mythical Background: Zacian and Zamazenta have rich lore and history tied to the Galar region. Eternatus, on the other hand, is a space invader, not deeply rooted in Galar's mythology. It came from space, and it doesn't have any connection to the history of the Galar region. This is another difference between the other legendary Pokemon in the game.
• Story Purpose: Eternatus serves a specific plot function – to be defeated. Its role is more of a catalyst for the story's events than a being with a deeper connection to the game's world. It's the problem to be solved, not a cornerstone of the world.

Comparing Eternatus to Other Legendaries

While Eternatus holds a significant place in the narrative, some players argue that it doesn't align with the traditional characteristics of legendary Pokemon. Other legendary Pokemon are frequently shrouded in mystery, with deep-rooted connections to the game's lore and mythology. Consider Lugia or Ho-Oh from the Johto region, who are integral to the game's ecosystem, not just a threat to be eliminated.

The Verdict: So, Is Eternatus a Legendary?

This is where things get interesting, guys! There's no easy yes or no answer. Here's a breakdown of the possibilities:

• Yes, It's a Legendary: Based on its power, unique design, story importance, and the rarity of the encounter, it absolutely fits the bill. It's a significant force in the Pokemon world, and it plays a huge role in the game.
• Maybe, But Not in the Traditional Sense: Eternatus is legendary, but not in the same way as Zacian or Zamazenta. It's more of a plot device, a cosmic threat that needs to be stopped, rather than a Pokemon with a deep connection to the Galar region's history and mythology.
• Something Else Entirely: Maybe Eternatus is in a class of its own. It's a unique being, unlike anything we've seen before. It could be argued that it is a unique type of Pokemon, that is not a legendary. It could be a new classification of Pokemon entirely.

The Final Analysis

Ultimately, whether you classify Eternatus as a legendary is a matter of interpretation. If you prioritize its impact on the narrative, its exceptional power, and its unique design, then it definitely earns a spot among the legends. If you prioritize the traditional characteristics of legendary Pokemon, like deep-rooted lore and a more collectible aspect, then you might see it differently.

The Legacy of Eternatus

Regardless of its classification, Eternatus has left a lasting impression on the Pokemon world. It's a reminder that the Pokemon universe is constantly evolving, with new types of Pokemon and new threats emerging. Its inclusion in Pokemon Sword and Shield has sparked countless discussions among players, further enriching the Pokemon experience. Eternatus has left a mark on the series, and it's a testament to the creativity of Game Freak.

Conclusion

So, there you have it, folks! The debate over Eternatus's status as a legendary Pokemon is complex and open to interpretation. Hopefully, this deep dive has given you some food for thought. What do you think? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below! And, as always, happy catching!