New Characters

As Pokémon Sword & Shield is set in a brand new region, there are a number of brand new characters that have significant roles in the game.

Hop

US Name: Hop
Jp. Name:

Details:
Hop was introduced in the Pokémon Direct in June 2019 and is your friend who starts his journey at the same time as you. He is the brother of Leon, the Champion, and his aim is also to become the Champion, just like his brother

Hop Image

Professor Magnolia

US Name: Professor Magnolia
Jp. Name:

Details:
Professor Magnolia was introduced in the Pokémon Direct in June 2019. She is the preeminent Pokémon professor in the Galar region, focusing her research on the Dynamax phenomenon

Professor Magnolia Image

Sonia

US Name: Sonia
Jp. Name:

Details:
Soniawas introduced in the Pokémon Direct in June 2019. She is the granddaughter of Magnolia and a childhood friend of Leon, the Champion. She's a researcher and works with Professor Magnolia

Professor Magnolia Image

Leon

US Name: Leon
Jp. Name:

Details:
Leon was introduced in the Pokémon Direct in June 2019. He is the undefeated champion of the Galar region. He is extremely popular in the region and has the title of The Greatest Trainer in all of Galar.

Leon Image

Chairman Rose

US Name: Chairman Rose
Jp. Name:

Details:
Chairman Rose was introduced in the Pokémon Sword & Shield information drop in July 2019. He is the chairman of the Galar Pokémon League, having set it up, and also runs a large business in the region.

Chairman Rose Image

Oleana

US Name: Oleana
Jp. Name:

Details:
Oleana was introduced in the Pokémon Sword & Shield information drop in July 2019. She is Rose's secretary and vice-president of the company, managing the day-to-day work.

Oleana Image

Bede

US Name: Bede
Jp. Name:

Details:
Bede was introduced in the Pokémon Sword & Shield information drop in August 2019. He is trying to complete the Gym Challenge in Galar, having been sponsored by Chairman Rose, but has other intentions as well.

Bede Image

Marnie

US Name: Marnie
Jp. Name:

Details:
Marnie was introduced in the Pokémon Sword & Shield information drop in August 2019. She is another trainer who wishes to become Champion of Galar and has a competitive side, but she has developed a fanbase of Team Yell.

Marnie Image