The skies of Pokémon GO are about to get a legendary upgrade as the mythical bird trio—Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres—return in their awe-inspiring Dynamax forms! From January 20 to February 3, trainers will have the chance to take on these colossal Pokémon in five-star Max Raid Battles at Power Spots. Each legendary bird will appear weekly, giving players a dedicated window to battle, capture, and add them to their collections. Read on for full details about the event schedule, exclusive Timed Research, and bonus rewards!
The Legendary Bird Trio Returns—One Week at a Time
For three action-packed weeks, the Kanto region’s most iconic legendary birds will take flight in their massive Dynamax forms. Each Pokémon will debut on a Monday and remain available for capture throughout the week. Here's the full release schedule:
⚫︎ Dynamax Articuno: January 20
⚫︎ Dynamax Zapdos: January 27
⚫︎ Dynamax Moltres: February 3
After each debut, trainers will have a full week to challenge and catch these powerful Pokémon in Max Raid Battles. Whether you're completing your Pokédex or preparing for battle leagues, this is your best shot at securing these rare birds.
Legendary Flight Timed Research – Boost Your Chances
In anticipation of each legendary appearance, Niantic is rolling out exclusive Legendary Flight Timed Research tasks. These limited-time quests will help you prepare for the Max Raid Battles by rewarding useful items and encounter opportunities. Completing the research may also grant encounters with Pokémon that have an increased chance of being Shiny—perfect for collectors!
Here’s when the Timed Research will be available in your local time:
⚫︎ Dynamax Articuno – January 17, 10:00 am to January 20, 7:00 pm
(Featured Pokémon: Charmander, Beldum, Scorbunny)
⚫︎ Dynamax Zapdos – January 24, 10:00 am to January 27, 7:00 pm
(Featured Pokémon: Drilbur, Cryogonal, Grookey)
⚫︎ Dynamax Moltres – January 31, 10:00 am to February 3, 7:00 pm
(Featured Pokémon: Squirtle, Krabby, Sobble)
Players can earn valuable rewards such as Rare Candy, Max Revives, Max Potions, and Max Particles—essential for powering up Dynamax Pokémon after capture.
Victini Returns with the Tour Pass Deluxe
As part of the global Pokémon GO Tour: Unova event, trainers worldwide will receive a free Tour Pass starting at 10:00 am on February 24, 2025. This pass allows all players to earn Tour Points and climb through tiers to unlock exclusive rewards, culminating on Sunday, March 2, at 6:00 p.m. local time.
For those seeking enhanced benefits, the Tour Pass Deluxe upgrade unlocks instant access to powerful rewards, including:
- Immediate encounter with the Mythical Pokémon Victini
- A brand-new item: the Lucky Trinket
The Lucky Trinket allows you to set your status with a friend as Lucky Friends—a one-time opportunity per trinket. Once activated, the next trade you complete with that friend will result in a Lucky Pokémon, featuring boosted IVs and significantly reduced Stardust costs for power-ups. After the trade, the Lucky Friends status resets.
Upgrade Options and Expiration Details
The following upgrade bundles are available for purchase:
- Tour Pass Deluxe: $14.99 USD
- Tour Pass Deluxe + 10 Ranks: $19.99 USD
Please note: All rewards from the Tour Pass Deluxe must be claimed before March 9, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. local time, or they will expire.
Don’t miss your chance to soar with the legendary birds and harness the power of Victini. Mark your calendars, team up with friends, and get ready for an epic adventure in Pokémon GO! [ttpp]
