Pokemon Sword & Shield community discovers neat Max Raid trick year after release

Master Pokemon Sword & Shield Max Raids with this overlooked Taunt strategy

The Max Raid AI Problem

Pokemon Sword & Shield’s Max Raid battles present a unique challenge when human teammates are unavailable. The game’s AI-controlled substitutes often prioritize ineffective support moves over direct attacks, significantly reducing your team’s damage output.

The community recently discovered an ingenious solution to this persistent issue, transforming frustrating raid failures into consistent victories.

Many players overlook that Sword & Shield’s NPC trainers follow predictable move patterns. Support-focused characters like Martin default to stat-boosting moves 80% of the time, while attackers tend to use their strongest available move.

The Taunt Solution

The breakthrough came when player ‘Glanix’ demonstrated how Taunt alters NPC behavior. This Dark-type move, when used on ally NPCs, forces them to only use damaging attacks for three turns.

Strategic application requires timing: Best used after NPCs have set up their initial buffs. For optimal results, teach Taunt to a fast Pokemon that can outspeed your allies.

  • Pro Tip: Pair Taunt with the Ability Prankster for guaranteed first-turn execution
  • Advanced Raid Tactics

    Combine Taunt with these advanced techniques:

    • Use a Ghost-type to avoid being Taunted yourself
    • Prioritize Taunting NPCs with healing moves first
    • Coordinate with human teammates to maximize damage windows

    Remember that Taunt’s effect lasts 3 turns – time your Dynamax for maximum impact during this window. This strategy becomes particularly valuable when playing offline or when teammates disconnect.

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