Pokémon Go: Remote Raids Now Available for Shadow Pokémon

Pokémon Go: Remote Raids Open for Shadow Pokémon

A Week-Long Trial

Trainers can now use Remote Raid Passes to battle Shadow Pokémon in Pokémon Go raids! This is a significant change from Niantic, who initially designed Shadow Raids to encourage in-person gameplay. The option is available for a week, possibly as a trial before wider implementation.

Why the Change?

This decision follows Niantic’s previous efforts to limit remote raiding after the COVID-19 lockdowns. Several theories exist: perhaps Niantic believes in-person play has sufficiently increased, or that the popularity of Gigantamax Pokémon raids has lessened the need for remote Shadow Raids. Another possibility is the significant profitability of Remote Raid Passes.

What it Means for Players

Previously, accessing powerful Shadow Pokémon, especially Shadow Legendary Pokémon like Ho-Oh (featured in this weekend’s raid day), required in-person participation. This week-long trial opens up this challenging and rewarding gameplay to a wider range of players. This change coincides with a new in-game event featuring Shadow Pokémon.

Need Help?

Check out Eurogamer’s guides for defeating Team Rocket and finding the latest Shadow Pokémon!