Pokémon Go celebrated its 10th anniversary by bringing a pivotal moment from its original trailer to life in New York's Times Square. Over a thousand players gathered to participate in a community raid battle against a projected Mega Mewtwo Y, a spectacle that filled the iconic location with fans.
The event culminated the game's anniversary celebrations by fulfilling a promise made in the game's initial promotional material. As anticipation built, Mewtwo's appearance was hinted at through subtle clues, including its removal from PokéStops and a vanishing act at the Shibuya Pokémon Center. The mystery was resolved when Times Square went dark, revealing Mewtwo not only within the game but also across the digital billboards that define the area.
Players engaged in the community raid, with their in-game avatars and Pokémon appearing on the surrounding screens during the intense battle. This unique presentation allowed attendees to experience the raid firsthand while also being a part of the visual spectacle. The battle took place twice, with players coordinating actions like raising their phones to deliver the final attacks.
Upon defeating the formidable Psychic-type Pokémon, players had the chance to catch it using a Master Ball, a fitting tribute for a Generation 1 legendary. The second encounter offered a guaranteed perfect IV (Individual Value) Mewtwo, a highly sought-after Pokémon for dedicated players. The event also included a chronological countdown of Pokémon Go's years since launch, with each year highlighted by related legendary Pokémon raids and wild spawns, serving as a nostalgic nod to the game's history.
For many, the event evoked the early days of Pokémon Go's popularity in the summer of 2016, a period marked by widespread excitement and community engagement. The shared experience in Times Square resonated with players, with one attendee overheard expressing their continued dedication to the game.
Looking ahead, Pokémon Go is preparing for its annual Go Fest 2026: Global event, scheduled for July 11th and 12th. This year's festival will be free for all participants and will feature the global debut of Mega Mewtwo X and Mega Mewtwo Y.