The July season of Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield Ranked Battles has begun, and this month’s regulations are sure to shake up Trainers’ strategies with the addition of Pokémon from the Isle of Armor. Once again, Trainers will be able to test skills in head-to-head battles with players around the world, move up the leaderboards, and earn in-game rewards.

Pokémon in either the Galar Region Pokédex or the Isle of Armor Pokédex that are caught, hatched from Eggs, or received as an official Mystery Gift are eligible for Ranked Battles, except for Mythical Pokémon and most Legendary Pokémon (Cobalion, Terrakion, and Virizion are permitted). New in July, Pokémon of permitted species with the battle-ready symbol may also be used in Ranked Battles. Competitors will also be permitted to use all known Pokémon with the Gigantamax Factor, including Venusaur, Blastoise, Rillaboom, Cinderace, Inteleon, and Urshifu.

To start a Ranked Battle, select VS in the X menu, select Battle Stadium, and then select Ranked Battles. You can press the Y Button to see an overview of Ranked Battles before you begin your match.

Before battle, you’ll be matched up with other players of similar rank to ensure even competition. When the season concludes, the higher the tier you finish in, the greater your in-game rewards. The July season rewards include the following:

Master Ball Tier

• Gold Bottle Cap ×3

• 600 Battle Points

• Armorite Ore ×30

Ultra Ball Tier

• Gold Bottle Cap ×1

• 300 Battle Points

• Armorite Ore ×10

Great Ball Tier

• Bottle Cap ×3

• Ability Capsule ×1

• 100 Battle Points

• Armorite Ore ×5

Poké Ball Tier and Beginner Tier

• Ability Capsule ×1

• 50 Battle Points

• Armorite Ore ×1

Have fun battling, and check back later for more Ranked Battle season news.