Niantic has exciting news for Pokémon GO enthusiasts: for the first time, players can utilize remote raid passes during Shadow Raids at the upcoming Fashion Week: Taken Over event. Introduced in 2023, Shadow Raids have become a favorite among players for capturing powerful Pokémon.
As we step into 2025, Niantic is rolling out a series of updates for the beloved augmented reality game. January marks the return of Ralts during the second Pokémon GO Community Day of the month. In addition to this, the developers have thrilled fans by introducing a long-awaited feature to the mobile game.
During the Pokémon GO Fashion Week: Taken Over event, which runs from Wednesday, January 15, at 12:00 a.m. to Sunday, January 19, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. local time, trainers can participate in one-star, three-star, and five-star Shadow Raids either in person or remotely. This event offers players a unique opportunity to capture Pokémon with higher IV stats.
Pokémon GO Temporarily Introducing Remote Raid Passes for Shadow Raids
Although this feature is exclusive to the Fashion Week: Taken Over event, players can also use remote raid passes to battle in the Shadow Ho-Oh Raid day on January 19 between 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. local time. During this raid day, trainers will have an increased chance of encountering a rare shiny shadow Ho-Oh and can teach it the charged attack Sacred Fire. Additionally, players can use a Charged TM on Shadow Pokémon to remove the move Frustration.
The introduction of remote raid passes for Shadow Raids has been one of the most requested features since their addition to the game in 2023. Players are eager to take advantage of this opportunity, though it's important to note that after the Fashion Week: Taken Over event ends, remote raid passes will no longer be usable in Shadow Raids.
It remains uncertain whether Niantic will make this feature a permanent addition to Pokémon GO or if it's a one-time event. The developers have faced criticism regarding the need for in-person gatherings for Dynamax and Gigantamax battles, making a permanent remote raid pass option for Shadow Raids a highly anticipated change for many fans.