Pokémon Go's fourth anniversary celebrations unlock new species
Pokémon Go is gearing up for its fourth anniversary with free weekly challenges and the release of fresh creatures, all leading up to the game’s ticketed virtual Go Fest 2020 event in July.
Unova species Ducklett and Petilil will become available for the first time, alongside Flying Pikachu (a version of Pokémon’s mascot kept aloft via balloons, which appeared on an early Pokémon card) plus the Shiny versions of Pidove and Bellsprout.
And, as previously announced, weekly Timed Research challenges unlock bonuses for those who buy a ticket to the upcoming Go Fest 2020 event, which this year is being held virtually so anyone can attend.
The event calendar begins next Friday, 3rd July. Ducklett and Flying Pikachu will become available via Timed Research themed around in-game skill, while wild spawns will feature Flying-type creatures (including the debut of Shiny Pidove) and various Pokémon wearing party hats.
Ho-oh will feature in raids over that weekend, and the game’s Jump-Start Special Research will be unlocked again for any newbies yet to complete it.
This week’s set of Timed Research lasts until the following Wednesday evening and unlocks the following Pokémon for Go Fest ticket holders during the event, should one million players of each in-game team complete it: Chimecho (Instinct), Alomomola (Mystic) and Chansey (Valor).