Mew, the enigmatic Mythical Pokémon, has captivated trainers since the very beginning. Its playful nature and genetic prowess make it a highly sought-after addition to any team. While the Poké Ball Plus was initially the only official method to receive Mew in Pokémon Sword and Shield, dedicated trainers have discovered alternative routes. This guide explores every potential avenue for acquiring Mew in Pokémon Sword without relying on the Poké Ball Plus, covering legitimate methods, trading options, and the truth behind those tempting-but-risky glitches.
Understanding the Official Distribution Methods (and Why They Don’t Work Anymore)
Historically, Nintendo has used various methods to distribute Mythical Pokémon like Mew. Understanding these past practices helps to manage expectations and appreciate the current challenges of obtaining Mew in Sword.
The Poké Ball Plus Connection
The Poké Ball Plus, released alongside Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee!, was designed to enhance the immersive experience. One of its key features was the ability to transfer Mew from the Poké Ball Plus to the Let’s Go games. Crucially, owners could then receive Mew in Pokémon Sword and Shield as a one-time gift. However, this promotion is now over, and new Poké Ball Plus devices will not contain Mew. Used devices that haven’t redeemed Mew are the only exception, but confirming redemption history is difficult.
Past Mystery Gift Events
Nintendo regularly hosts Mystery Gift events, distributing Pokémon and items via online connectivity. While Mew has been distributed through Mystery Gift in other Pokémon games, it has never been directly distributed this way in Pokémon Sword or Shield. Keep an eye on official Nintendo announcements, but don’t hold your breath for a Sword/Shield-specific Mew Mystery Gift. They are more likely to distribute other mythical or legendary Pokémon.
Exploring Legitimate Avenues for Obtaining Mew
Since the Poké Ball Plus method is largely inaccessible, let’s examine the legitimate methods that are still viable for acquiring Mew in Pokémon Sword.
Pokémon HOME and Trading
Pokémon HOME is a cloud-based service that connects various Pokémon games, allowing you to store and transfer Pokémon. If you have access to Mew in another compatible game (like Pokémon GO or a previous generation game where you obtained Mew), you can transfer it to Pokémon HOME and then to Pokémon Sword.
Transferring from Pokémon GO
Pokémon GO occasionally features Special Research tasks that reward players with a Mew. This is one of the most reliable ways to obtain a legitimate Mew. Once you have Mew in Pokémon GO, you can transfer it to Pokémon HOME.
Transferring from Older Generations
If you own older Pokémon games where you obtained Mew through events or glitches (be cautious about the legality of these glitched Mews!), you can transfer it to Pokémon HOME through the Pokémon Bank service (for 3DS games). Note that this process may require multiple steps and subscriptions.
The GTS and Wonder Trade: A Low-Probability Gamble
The Global Trade System (GTS) in Pokémon HOME allows you to trade Pokémon with other players worldwide. Wonder Trade provides a random Pokémon in exchange for a Pokémon you send. While theoretically possible to receive a Mew through these methods, the odds are astronomically low. Most players trading Mew will seek specific high-value Pokémon in return, and Wonder Trade is filled with common Pokémon. Still, if you’re feeling lucky, it’s worth a try – just don’t expect immediate results.
Understanding the Risks of Unofficial Methods
The allure of obtaining Mew quickly and easily can lead players to explore unofficial methods. However, it’s crucial to understand the risks involved before attempting any of these approaches.
Glitches and Exploits: Proceed with Extreme Caution
Throughout the Pokémon franchise, glitches and exploits have occasionally allowed players to obtain Pokémon that are normally unobtainable. However, using glitches can corrupt your save data, lead to game crashes, or even result in bans from online services. Furthermore, obtaining Pokémon through glitches often makes them illegitimate, meaning they may not be tradable or usable in official competitions. While stories of past glitches may surface, attempting them in Sword and Shield carries substantial risks.
Hacked Pokémon: The Danger of Illegitimacy
Hacked Pokémon are Pokémon that have been created or modified using external tools or software. While they may appear legitimate, they are often flagged by the game’s anti-cheat systems and can lead to similar consequences as using glitches. Additionally, trading or using hacked Pokémon is considered unethical by many players.
The Moral and Ethical Considerations
Beyond the technical risks, consider the ethical implications of using unofficial methods. Many players believe that obtaining Pokémon through illegitimate means detracts from the overall gaming experience and undermines the spirit of fair play. It’s essential to weigh the desire for Mew against your own ethical standards and the potential consequences of your actions.
Maximizing Your Chances Through Trading Communities
Trading with other players is a significant part of the Pokémon experience, and it offers a more reliable path to acquiring Mew than relying on luck.
Online Forums and Communities
Numerous online forums and communities dedicated to Pokémon trading exist. These platforms provide a space to connect with other trainers, discuss trade offers, and potentially find someone willing to trade a Mew. Popular options include Reddit’s r/PokemonTrades, Serebii.net’s trading forums, and various Discord servers dedicated to Pokémon Sword and Shield trading.
Specific Pokémon to Offer in Trade
When seeking a Mew in a trade, understand what other players value. Offering rare or powerful Pokémon, such as Shiny Pokémon, Legendaries, or Pokémon with specific competitive builds, will significantly increase your chances of success. Consider Pokémon that are difficult to obtain in Sword and Shield, like those exclusive to the opposite version of the game or those that require specific breeding or training methods.
Building a Reputation as a Trustworthy Trader
In trading communities, reputation is crucial. Be honest and transparent in your trade offers, and always follow through on your agreements. Positive feedback from other traders will make you a more desirable trading partner and increase the likelihood of finding someone willing to trade you a Mew.
Focusing on Pokémon GO as a Primary Source
As previously mentioned, Pokémon GO represents a relatively reliable avenue for obtaining Mew. Dedicating time and effort to Pokémon GO can ultimately lead to your desired Mew in Pokémon Sword.
Completing the Special Research Tasks
Pokémon GO features Special Research tasks, which are story-driven quests that reward players with various items and encounters, including the Mythical Pokémon Mew. These research tasks often involve catching specific types of Pokémon, spinning PokéStops, and completing other in-game activities. Completing the Special Research tasks is the primary way to obtain Mew in Pokémon GO.
Optimizing Your Pokémon GO Gameplay
To efficiently complete the Special Research tasks, focus on optimizing your Pokémon GO gameplay. This includes utilizing Incense and Lure Modules to attract more Pokémon, participating in Community Days to catch specific Pokémon, and regularly spinning PokéStops to replenish your item inventory. Consider joining a local Pokémon GO community to coordinate raids and share tips.
Importing from Let’s Go Games: A Secondhand Opportunity
While the initial Poké Ball Plus promotion has ended, the possibility of acquiring a pre-owned Poké Ball Plus that hasn’t redeemed its Mew remains.
Searching for Used Poké Ball Plus Devices
Check online marketplaces such as eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace for used Poké Ball Plus devices. When considering a purchase, carefully inquire about the device’s redemption history. Ask the seller if they have already claimed the Mew in their Let’s Go game. If they haven’t, proceed with caution and verify their claims upon receiving the device.
Verifying Mew Redemption (If Possible)
Unfortunately, there’s no foolproof way to guarantee that a used Poké Ball Plus contains an unredeemed Mew before purchasing it. However, you can ask the seller to provide screenshots or videos of the device connected to a Let’s Go game, demonstrating that the Mew hasn’t been claimed. This is not definitive proof, but it can provide some reassurance.
Conclusion: Patience and Diligence are Key
Obtaining Mew in Pokémon Sword without a Poké Ball Plus requires patience, diligence, and a realistic understanding of the available options. While glitches and hacks may seem tempting, they carry significant risks. Focus on legitimate methods like transferring from Pokémon GO or trading with other players. Building a strong reputation in trading communities and optimizing your Pokémon GO gameplay will significantly increase your chances of adding this elusive Mythical Pokémon to your team. Remember, the journey to obtaining Mew is part of the fun. Enjoy the process, and good luck!
Is it actually possible to get Mew in Pokémon Sword without a Poké Ball Plus?
The short answer is no. Mew is exclusively obtainable in Pokémon Sword and Shield by linking a Poké Ball Plus controller to your game. The game recognizes the connected Poké Ball Plus and triggers an event allowing you to receive Mew. Without this controller, there is no legitimate in-game method to acquire Mew through standard gameplay, such as catching it in the wild or receiving it as a gift from an NPC.
Therefore, you will need a Poké Ball Plus controller that hasn’t already claimed Mew in another save file or game. Keep in mind that once the Mew is claimed, that particular Poké Ball Plus can no longer be used to obtain Mew in other games. You would need to acquire a different, unused Poké Ball Plus to get Mew in another save file.
What if I borrow a Poké Ball Plus from a friend? Can I get Mew then?
Yes, borrowing a Poké Ball Plus from a friend is a viable option to obtain Mew in your Pokémon Sword game. The key is to ensure that the Poké Ball Plus you borrow hasn’t already been used to claim Mew in another Pokémon Sword or Shield save file. If it’s a fresh, unused controller or one where the Mew was never claimed, you should be able to connect it to your game and receive the Pokémon.
Before borrowing, it is wise to confirm with your friend whether or not they have already redeemed Mew from their Poké Ball Plus. Once a Poké Ball Plus has been used to receive Mew, it can’t be used again to receive another Mew in a different game. Double-checking this detail can save you time and prevent disappointment.
Are there any glitches or cheat codes to get Mew without a Poké Ball Plus?
Unfortunately, there are no legitimate glitches or cheat codes within the game that would allow you to obtain Mew in Pokémon Sword without a Poké Ball Plus. Claims of such glitches or cheat codes are often misleading or involve potentially risky methods such as game modification or using unofficial tools. These methods could damage your game save or even violate the game’s terms of service.
Engaging in such practices carries significant risks, including the potential loss of save data, a ban from online features, or even bricking your Nintendo Switch console. It’s always recommended to obtain Pokémon through legitimate methods provided by the game developers, ensuring a safe and enjoyable gaming experience.
I bought a used Poké Ball Plus, but it won’t give me Mew. Why not?
The most common reason why a used Poké Ball Plus won’t give you Mew is because the previous owner has already claimed the Pokémon in their own game. Once a Poké Ball Plus has been used to receive Mew in either Pokémon Sword or Shield, it cannot be used again to obtain Mew in another save file.
It is also possible the Poké Ball Plus may be defective or have connection issues. Try to troubleshoot the controller by resetting it and ensuring it is properly paired with your Nintendo Switch. If issues persist, consider contacting Nintendo support or the retailer you purchased the controller from to explore warranty or exchange options.
Does the Poké Ball Plus need to be fully charged to receive Mew?
While it’s always a good idea to ensure your Poké Ball Plus has sufficient charge for stable connectivity, it doesn’t necessarily need to be fully charged to receive Mew. The key factor is that the controller has enough power to successfully connect to your Nintendo Switch and remain connected throughout the process of claiming your Mew.
If the Poké Ball Plus has extremely low battery, it may disconnect during the process, potentially interrupting the Mew retrieval process. To avoid this, it’s recommended to connect the controller to a power source while claiming your Mew if you suspect the battery is low. This will ensure a stable connection and prevent any potential errors.
Does the level or progress in my Pokémon Sword game affect my ability to get Mew from the Poké Ball Plus?
No, your level or progress in your Pokémon Sword game has no bearing on your ability to receive Mew from the Poké Ball Plus. The Mew gift is independent of your in-game progress. As long as you have access to the Mystery Gift function in your game, you should be able to receive Mew, regardless of whether you’ve just started your adventure or completed the entire main storyline.
The Mystery Gift option becomes available after reaching the Wild Area for the first time. This is generally an early-game event, meaning you can claim your Mew relatively soon after starting the game once you’ve linked the Poké Ball Plus. The Pokémon’s level will be a starting level, useful for integrating into your team from the beginning.
What happens if my Poké Ball Plus disconnects while I’m receiving Mew?
If your Poké Ball Plus disconnects while you are in the process of receiving Mew, it can cause problems. Ideally, the game should attempt to resume the process from where it left off once you reconnect the Poké Ball Plus. However, there is a slight risk that the process could be interrupted, potentially resulting in a corrupted save or an inability to claim Mew altogether.
To minimize the risk of this happening, ensure that both the Poké Ball Plus and your Nintendo Switch are sufficiently charged and that there are no obstructions interfering with the Bluetooth connection. If a disconnection occurs, try restarting your game and re-attempting the process. If problems persist, consult Nintendo support for assistance.