Creating and joining a lobby
The host creates a code and shares it directly with the other players. Guests only need the code and a display name; there is no ShadowDex account or public lobby directory.
A lobby supports up to eight occupied slots and starts when the host is ready with at least two players. The chosen Pokémon pool must contain enough eligible species for the requested number of rounds and, in silhouette mode, enough names to build four answer choices.
Round timing and scoring
Each trainer submits one answer. A round resolves when everyone has answered or when the answer window expires. Correct answers add one point; speed does not break ties, so accuracy remains the priority.
The reveal period shows the correct Pokémon before the next round. If the connection is interrupted, the saved lobby code and player pass can be used to reconnect while the lobby remains active.
- Use typed-name mode for active recall and silhouette mode for recognition.
- Choose a focused pool when players have different levels of Pokédex knowledge.
- Lobby and answer records expire four hours after creation.
Privacy and conduct
Trainer names, lobby settings, answers, and scores are used only to run the temporary match. Avoid using a real full name or any other personal information as a trainer name.
Lobby codes should be shared with people you intend to play with. ShadowDex does not provide chat, profiles, friend requests, or searchable public rooms.