Pokemon GO Event Adding Long-Requested Feature for a Limited Time

Pokemon GO's Fashion Week: Taken Over event introduces a highly anticipated feature: remote raid pass functionality for Shadow Raids. This limited-time opportunity allows players to participate in one-star, three-star, and five-star Shadow Raids remotely, from January 15th, 12:00 a.m. to January 19th, 8:00 p.m. local time.

This event marks the first time remote raid passes are usable in Shadow Raids, offering a chance to catch Pokémon with superior IV stats. The convenience extends to the Shadow Ho-Oh Raid Day on January 19th (2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. local time), boosting shiny Shadow Ho-Oh encounter rates and enabling the teaching of the Sacred Fire charged attack. Frustration removal via Charged TMs on Shadow Pokémon is also available.

While this functionality is event-exclusive, its introduction addresses a long-standing player request since Shadow Raids launched in 2023. The temporary nature of remote raid pass usage in Shadow Raids leaves the future uncertain, although the positive player response may influence Niantic's decision regarding permanent implementation. This is particularly relevant given past criticism concerning the in-person requirement for challenging raids. The event offers a valuable test case for the feasibility and desirability of permanent remote raid pass support in Shadow Raids.