Pokemon GO enthusiasts have a thrilling update to look forward to during the upcoming Fashion Week: Taken Over event. For the first time, players can utilize remote raid passes in Shadow Raids, a feature that has been eagerly anticipated since Shadow Raids were introduced to the game in 2023. This exciting development comes as part of Niantic's ongoing efforts to enhance the augmented reality experience in 2025, which also includes the return of Ralts for the second Pokemon GO Community Day in January.
The Fashion Week: Taken Over event is scheduled to run from Wednesday, January 15, at 12:00 a.m. to Sunday, January 19, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. local time. During this period, trainers can participate in one-star, three-star, and five-star Shadow Raids either in person or remotely. This temporary introduction of remote raid passes for Shadow Raids offers players a unique opportunity to capture Pokemon with higher IV stats, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event.
Pokemon GO Temporarily Introducing Remote Raid Passes for Shadow Raids
A highlight of the event is the Shadow Ho-Oh Raid day on January 19, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. local time, where players can use their remote raid passes to battle and have a boosted chance of catching a shiny shadow Ho-Oh. Additionally, trainers can teach this elusive Pokemon the charged attack Sacred Fire and use a Charged TM to make Shadow Pokemon forget the move Frustration.
The introduction of remote raid passes for Shadow Raids has been one of the most requested features by the Pokemon GO community since the inception of Shadow Raids. While this feature will only be available during the Fashion Week: Taken Over event, it has sparked discussions about its potential permanence. Niantic has faced criticism in the past regarding the need for in-person gatherings for Dynamax and Gigantamax battles, making the temporary addition of remote raid passes a welcome change for many players.
It remains uncertain whether Niantic will extend the use of remote raid passes for Shadow Raids beyond the Fashion Week: Taken Over event. However, the positive reception from the community could influence future decisions, potentially leading to a more inclusive and accessible raiding experience in Pokemon GO.