Pokémon is ringing in the Lunar New Year of 2025 with a special celebration dedicated to the Year of the Snake, featuring the beloved snake Pokémon, Ekans and Arbok. Dive into the details of this festive celebration, including a heartwarming animated short and exciting in-game events.
Pokemon Celebrates the Year of the Snake
Releases an Animated Short, Featuring a Shiny Ekans and Arbok
On January 29, 2025, Pokémon’s YouTube channel unveiled a delightful animated short to celebrate the Lunar New Year, heralding the Year of the Snake. This charming video showcases an engaging encounter between two Ekans dangling from a tree, with one of them dazzling as a Shiny variant. The Shiny Ekans, captivated by its own reflection, tumbles onto a passing Arbok, sparking an evolution when faced with a threat from its peers. Embraced by the other Arboks, the golden Shiny one leads them out of the forest.
Despite its brevity, the video tugged at the heartstrings of many fans. One viewer remarked, "Even though we were able to meet, it’s sad to say goodbye," reflecting on the poignant moment of the Ekans' brief encounter. Another viewer drew parallels to childhood friendships, noting how the two Ekans bonded instantly, undeterred by their differing appearances.
Moreover, the video rekindled fond memories for some, with one fan recalling their first encounter with a Shiny Ekans in Pokémon Gold and Silver. "When I was playing Gold and Silver, the first differently colored Pokémon I met was an Arbok. It ran away, and I couldn't catch it—a regret I still carry. But I'm thrilled we could reunite through this video!"In addition to the animated short, The Pokémon Company has prepared a range of events and merchandise to enhance the Lunar New Year festivities.
Pokemon GO’s Lunar New Year Event
On January 9, 2025, Pokémon GO kicked off its Lunar New Year event, boosting the encounter and Shiny rates of snake-like Pokémon as part of the Dual Destiny season, spanning from December 3, 2024, to March 4, 2025.
Players can look forward to increased encounters with Ekans, Onix, Gyarados, Dratini, Dunsparce, Snivy, and Darumaka. Though Darumaka may appear more humanoid, its design is inspired by the Daruma doll, symbolizing good luck and perseverance.
The event also features themed Field Research tasks and special 2 km Eggs, which include Pokémon like Makuhita, Nosepass, Meditite, Duskull, and Skorupi. Additionally, a themed Timed Research offers players the chance to earn the rare Zygarde Cells, essential for transforming Zygarde’s forms.
