The Pokémon Go Mega Squads event has arrived, bringing with it the debut of new Pokémon, changes to existing Mega Evolutions, and a variety of research tasks and bonuses. The event introduces Generation 9's Maschiff and its evolution Mabosstiff, both Dark-type Pokémon.
Mega Evolution Updates
Mega Beedrill and Mega Houndoom have received updates, allowing them to reach a "Super Max Level." At this highest Mega Evolution level, both Pokémon will gain access to an additional Charged Attack. Mega Beedrill can now utilize Fell Stinger+, which offers 40 Power and a chance to increase Attack by one stage in Trainer Battles, or 140 Power in Raids. Mega Houndoom gains Dark Pulse+, dealing 60 Power in Trainer Battles and 150 Power in Raids.
New Pokémon and Shiny Variants
Maschiff and its evolution Mabosstiff are now catchable in Pokémon Go. The event also features the release of shiny Flamigo. Players will have an increased chance of encountering shiny Pidgey until September 11th at 10 a.m. local time. Following that, the increased chance shifts to shiny Carvanha until the event concludes on September 14th at 8 p.m. local time.
Event-Exclusive Research and Spawns
The Mega Squads event features event-exclusive field research tasks that will change midway through the event. From September 11th at 10 a.m. local time, new tasks and Pokémon encounters will become available. Similarly, the wild Pokémon spawns and the pool of Pokémon available from 5km eggs will rotate on the same date.
Wild Pokémon spawns until September 11th at 10 a.m. local time include Weedle, Pidgey, Emolga, Fletchling, Noibat, Rookidee, and Flamigo. From September 11th until the event's end on September 14th at 8 p.m. local time, spawns will shift to Weedle, Houndour, Carvanha, and Flamigo.
The 5km egg pool until September 11th at 10 a.m. local time consists of Emolga, Fletchling, Rookidee, and Flamigo. After the rotation, these eggs will feature Sandile, Pancham, Maschiff, and Flamigo.
Spotlight Hours and Bonuses
Two Spotlight Hours are scheduled during the Mega Squads event. The first, on Thursday, September 10th, features Weedle, Kakuna, and Beedrill with double Transfer Candy. The second, on Sunday, September 13th, focuses on Houndour and Houndoom, also offering double Transfer Candy.
Mega Squads Go Pass
A paid "Mega Squads Go Pass" is available from September 8th to September 14th. The free track includes rewards such as Rare Candy, Ultra Balls, Mega Energy for Beedrill and Houndoom, and Pokémon encounters. The paid Deluxe Track offers additional rewards, including Rare Candy XL, Super Incubators, and exclusive cosmetic items like a Maschiff Jersey. Players who purchase the Deluxe Track with six pre-completed ranks will receive a further boost to rewards. All claimed rewards must be obtained before September 16th at 8 p.m. local time.