Months after a controversial exclusive Mewtwo event in Pokémon Go, the coveted creature is now being resold online for prices ranging from $500 to $5,000. The event, which celebrated the game's 10th anniversary, initially drew criticism for limiting access to influencers and press, creating a sense of exclusion among the broader player base.
This special Mewtwo, obtained by attendees who completed a raid during a Times Square takeover event, featured perfect stats and a unique Times Square background. This stunt recreated a scene from Pokémon Go's initial trailer, where trainers battled a Mewtwo in the iconic location. While the callback was celebrated by some, the exclusivity of the event soured the anniversary celebration for many.
Players who were not invited to the exclusive event could later participate in their own Mewtwo raids, but these captured creatures did not possess the perfect stats or the special background. This distinction has led to significant player discontent, with many feeling that a major game milestone was unfairly tied to an inaccessible event, contrary to the game's original spirit of community.
The resale market has since amplified these frustrations. Listings on eBay show the special Mewtwo, particularly those with shiny "hundo" (perfect IV) stats or a flying ability, commanding premium prices. Reports indicate that fewer than 2,300 of these Times Square Mewtwos exist, contributing to their scarcity and high resale value. This situation, where exclusive in-game rewards become commodities for personal profit, has been a point of contention for longtime fans who felt overlooked by the event's design.