Pokémon Go is set to feature Nickit, the Fox Pokémon, as the star of its next Community Day event. The event will run on Sunday, August 16, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. local time, increasing the spawn rate of Nickit significantly. This occasion offers a heightened chance for players to encounter and catch a shiny Nickit.

Shiny Nickit and Evolution Bonuses

During Community Day events, the rate of encountering shiny Pokémon is generally around 1 in 24, according to past research. Trainers who actively play during the three-hour window are likely to find multiple shiny Nickit. For those with limited time, using an Incense can help by making Pokémon appear close by. Players can quickly tap on each Nickit to check for shininess and flee from any non-shiny encounters. A useful tip for identifying already-checked Pokémon is that they will face the player's avatar.

Evolving Nickit into its final form, Thievul, between 2 p.m. and 9 p.m. local time on the day of the event will grant it the exclusive charged move Icy Wind. For players who miss this window, Icy Wind can potentially be obtained during a future Community Day weekend event in December, or by using an Elite TM.

Thievul's Combat Viability

In PvE content such as raids and gyms, Thievul is not a top-tier Dark-type Pokémon and is generally outclassed by many others. Its highest DPS moveset consists of Snarl and Play Rough, but it is not recommended for damage-focused raid battles unless the player has a strong personal attachment to the Pokémon.

Thievul's performance in PvP is more notable, particularly in the Great League. The addition of Icy Wind has significantly boosted its standing, making it a viable pick when equipped with the moveset Sucker Punch, Night Slash, and Icy Wind. While it also performs adequately in the Ultra League with the same moveset, it is considered a stronger option in the Great League.

Event Bonuses

Several bonuses will be active throughout the Nickit Community Day, enhancing the experience for participants:

  • Triple Stardust for catching Pokémon.
  • Double Candy for catching Pokémon.
  • Double chance for trainers level 31 and above to receive XL Candy from catching Pokémon.
  • Incense will last for three hours.
  • Lure Modules will last for one hour.
  • Nickit will appear in snapshots as special photobombs.
  • An additional special trade will be permitted per day.
  • The Stardust cost for trading Pokémon will be halved.

Players are advised to use a Star Piece and an Incense to maximize their catches, especially shiny Nickit. Additionally, Mega Evolving certain Pokémon such as Gyarados, Houndoom, Tyranitar, Sableye, Sharpedo, Absol, or Malamar can yield bonus Nickit Candy per catch.

The "Lure Module Bonus" will also continue, meaning Nickit will spawn in increased numbers from placed Lure Modules between 2 p.m. and 9 p.m. This effect, including the increased shiny rate from lures, will persist even after the main Community Day event concludes at 5 p.m.