>>43860125I looked into the differences between the two versions before picking Sword. I prefer higher attack, so figured Zacian would be the stronger of the two, which he is. And it turns out that Zacian also has type advantage over Zamazenta, which makes Sword the better pick, otherwise you end up with the legendary that's weak to the one Hop gets.
As for the gym leaders, it's one guy and one girl different, but Bea's a young woman and fit while Melony's a cake. And I think that Gordie looked cooler than Allister.
I also generally preferred the version exclusive Pokemon of Sword more.
And then the DLC info comes along and if you went with Sword you get a cute and devious new rival, where if you went with Shield you get some dorky guy as your rival.
