Sword & Shield·#40·2020
Shellder, a classic Water-type Pokémon from Generation I, is a beloved bivalve known for its hard shell and unique backward swimming, and it famously evolves into Cloyster. This particular card, from the 2020 Sword & Shield base set, is a common variant that provides an accessible entry point to the modern TCG. Here, you will discover Shellder's rich Pokédex lore, detailed mechanics including its HP, attacks, energy costs, weakness, and the historical context of this edition.
Read more ↓Shellder is a Water-type Pokémon introduced in Generation I, known for its bivalve shell and its distinctive large tongue. It evolves into Cloyster when exposed to a Water Stone. In the wild, Shellder are typically found in the ocean, often clinging to rocks or other Pokémon like Slowpoke. Their diet consists mainly of plankton and other small organisms they filter from the water. Shellder are characterized by their hard shells, which provide excellent defense, and their surprising speed when swimming backward by opening and closing their shells. In the Pokémon games, Shellder has been a consistent presence, often encountered in water routes or by fishing. In the anime, it's perhaps most famously recognized for its role in the evolution of Slowbro and Slowking, where it bites onto Slowpoke's tail or head, triggering the evolution. Culturally, Shellder embodies the concept of a protected, yet resourceful, aquatic creature, highlighting the diverse forms life can take in the Pokémon world. Its unique appearance and evolutionary method have made it a memorable part of the franchise since its inception.
Last updated: April 11, 2026
