Niantic Enhances Remote Raid Features in Pokémon GO with Shadow Raids and Max Battles

Exciting developments are on the way for Pokémon GO Trainers as Niantic has revealed significant updates that will dramatically enhance the raiding experience. Beginning in May 2025, players will have the chance to engage in Shadow Raids and Max Battles using Remote Raid Passes—an enhancement anticipated to invigorate the game’s worldwide community of Trainers.

Remote Raids: Redefining Accessibility

Remote Raid Passes have been a practical option for Trainers to engage in Raid Battles without needing to travel to a Gym physically. These passes permit players to confront Raid Bosses visible on their in-game map or join raids through invitations from friends. Although Remote Raid participants experience slightly diminished attack power compared to those present in-person, the convenience and flexibility have solidified Remote Raids as a core feature in Pokémon GO.

With the forthcoming update, Niantic is broadening the scope of Remote Raid Passes to encompass two new types of challenging encounters: Shadow Raids and Max Battles.

Shadow Raids: Confront Team Rocket’s Shadow Pokémon

Commencing May 13, 2025, the “Crown Clash: Taken Over” event will introduce Shadow Raids accessible via Remote Raid Passes. In this event, Team GO Rocket has seized control of mighty Pokémon—including the Legendary Dialga—transforming them into Shadow forms. Trainers must collaborate to overcome these tainted Pokémon and liberate them from Team Rocket’s hold.

Shadow Raids will test Trainers with innovative mechanics and more formidable opponents, but the capacity to join remotely means that a greater number of players can engage in the action, irrespective of their location.

Max Battles and the Arrival of Gigantamax Machamp

On May 19, 2025, Pokémon GO will launch its inaugural Max Battle Day, showcasing the introduction of Gigantamax Machamp. This formidable version of Machamp will be obtainable through Max Battles, which necessitate a special in-game resource known as Max Particles. For the first time, Trainers can utilize Remote Raid Passes to partake in Max Battles, rendering these high-stakes encounters more attainable than ever.

Trainers attending Max Battles in person will earn exclusive rewards, such as an additional Premier Ball and extra XP, promoting a balance between remote and in-person participation.

Expanded Limits for Remote Raids and Max Particles

To accommodate these new features, Niantic is also raising the limits for Remote Raids and Max Particles:

– Remote Raid Limit: Raised from 5 to 10 per day, with a possible increase to 20 during special events like Community Day Classic on May 24.
– Max Particles Limit: Elevated from 1,000 to 1,500, allowing Trainers to participate in more Max Battles and enhance their Pokémon’s Max Moves.

These modifications are designed to provide Trainers with greater freedom to engage in high-level content and optimize their gameplay experience.

A New Chapter for Pokémon GO Raiding

With the inclusion of Shadow Raids and Max Battles into the Remote Raid framework, Niantic is ushering in a new chapter of accessibility and excitement for Pokémon GO. Whether you are a long-time player or a newcomer, these updates present more chances to battle, collect, and connect with the global Pokémon GO community.

For further details and ongoing updates, Trainers can explore the official Pokémon GO blog.

Stay safe, stay vigilant, and prepare to raid—no matter where you are!