As the Pokémon franchise gears up for the release of Pokémon Legends: Z-A, Pokémon GO is joining the excitement with a major in-game event that fuses nostalgia, rewards, and fresh opportunities for trainers. Running from October 16 to October 20, 2025, this limited-time celebration will shine a spotlight on Kalos-themed content, boosted raids, and special rewards tied to beloved starter Pokémon.
A Celebration for Trainers Worldwide
The event officially kicks off on October 16 at 10 a.m. local time and runs until October 20 at 8 p.m. local time. Trainers across the globe will see sweeping changes to their Pokémon encounters, raid opportunities, and research tasks. By directly linking the event with the launch of Pokémon Legends: Z-A, Niantic is reinforcing the synergy between its blockbuster mobile title and the core Pokémon series, creating a bridge between mobile play and console hype.
Mega Raids Take Center Stage
One of the biggest highlights of the celebration is the increased frequency of Mega Raids. These powerful raid battles will appear far more often than usual, offering players an ideal chance to:
- Gather Mega Energy to unlock Mega Evolutions.
- Add powerful Mega forms to their Pokédex.
- Earn extra XL Candy for raid Pokémon.
This surge is expected to attract veteran raiders as well as newer players looking to experience Mega Raids at scale. It also makes the event a perfect time to stockpile resources for both competitive play and future raids.
Timed Research and Starter Pokémon
At the heart of the celebration lies a special Timed Research questline. Players will be able to select one of three starter Pokémon as their featured companion:
- Chikorita, the Grass-type favorite.
- Totodile, the Water-type crocodilian.
- Tepig, the fiery pig Pokémon.
Choosing one starter will determine the branching path of the research. Trainers will complete tasks tied to their chosen Pokémon, earning rewards such as XP, Candy, encounters, and even a Poffin. The decision also boosts the likelihood of encountering that starter when using Daily Adventure Incense during the event period, giving players more opportunities to build their collections.
Signature Moves Return
For competitive players, the event delivers something even more exciting: the return of exclusive Community Day moves for select final evolutions. Trainers who evolve certain Pokémon during the event window will unlock these powerful attacks:
- Meganium can learn Frenzy Plant.
- Feraligatr can learn Hydro Cannon.
- Emboar can learn Blast Burn.
These signature attacks are some of the strongest in the game, making them vital for raid strategies and PvP battles. Trainers who miss the evolution window can still teach these moves by using a Charged TM during the celebration.
Lumiose-Inspired Avatar Items
The event isn’t just about Pokémon battles. Players will also get a taste of Kalos fashion, as the in-game shop will feature free avatar items inspired by Lumiose City. Outfits, hats, and shoes reflecting the urban style of the Kalos region will be available in multiple designs. Once claimed, these avatar items will remain in players’ inventories permanently, ensuring that the celebration leaves a lasting cosmetic mark.
Strategy Tips for Maximizing the Event
- Prioritize Raids: With Mega Raids appearing more often, this is the best chance to farm Mega Energy. Target raid Pokémon that strengthen your team in gyms, PvP, or future events.
- Plan Your Starter Choice: Because the Timed Research path only allows one choice, pick the starter that aligns with your goals—whether it’s filling out Pokédex gaps, powering up for PvP, or simply personal preference.
- Use Incense Wisely: Time your Daily Adventure Incense for moments when you can walk or explore, maximizing encounters with your chosen starter.
- Evolve Strong Pokémon: Hold off on evolving until the event starts, so your Meganium, Feraligatr, or Emboar can learn the signature move.
- Grab Fashion Early: Claim your free avatar items during the event to avoid missing out.
Why This Event Matters
For Pokémon GO, this event is more than a content drop—it’s part of a long-term strategy to keep the game relevant while integrating with major franchise launches. By tying the mobile game to Pokémon Legends: Z-A, Niantic ensures that fans of the series feel connected across platforms.
It also provides a mix of benefits tailored to different players. Raiders get more Mega battles, collectors get unique starters and avatar items, and battlers gain access to high-impact moves. This layered design ensures that no trainer feels left out.
Final Thoughts
The Pokémon Legends: Z-A Celebration Event is shaping up to be one of the year’s most engaging Pokémon GO events. With boosted Mega Raids, branching Timed Research, powerful legacy moves, and stylish avatar gear, the celebration offers both immediate rewards and long-term advantages.
For trainers, the message is clear: this is the time to dive in, evolve, raid, and prepare your team for the adventures ahead.
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