Pokemon GO enthusiasts have a thrilling update to look forward to during the upcoming Fashion Week: Taken Over event. For the very first time, players will be able to use 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 is set to enhance the gaming experience by allowing players to participate in these challenging battles from the comfort of their own homes.
As 2025 kicks off, Niantic is rolling out a series of updates for the beloved augmented reality game. January is already packed with events, including the return of Ralts for the second Pokemon GO Community Day of the month. Amidst these updates, the introduction of remote raid passes for Shadow Raids during the Fashion Week: Taken Over event, running from Wednesday, January 15, at 12:00 a.m. to Sunday, January 19, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. local time, is a major highlight. Players can engage in one-star, three-star, and five-star Shadow Raids either in person or remotely, with the enticing opportunity to capture Pokemon boasting higher IV stats.
Pokemon GO Temporarily Introducing Remote Raid Passes for Shadow Raids
While the ability to use remote raid passes in Shadow Raids is exclusive to the Fashion Week: Taken Over event, players can also look forward to the Shadow Ho-Oh Raid day on January 19, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. local time. During this raid day, trainers have an increased chance of encountering the elusive shiny shadow Ho-Oh and can teach it the powerful charged attack, Sacred Fire. Additionally, players can utilize a Charged TM on Shadow Pokemon to remove the move Frustration, offering more strategic options in battles.
The gaming community has long requested the integration of remote raid passes into Shadow Raids, and this temporary feature is set to be a game-changer. However, once the Fashion Week: Taken Over event concludes, the use of remote raid passes in Shadow Raids will cease, leaving players to wonder about the future of this feature.
It remains uncertain whether Niantic will make remote raid passes a permanent fixture for Shadow Raids. Given the criticism the developers have faced regarding the necessity of in-person gatherings for Dynamax and Gigantamax battles, many fans hope that this feature will become a staple, enhancing accessibility and enjoyment for all Pokemon GO players.