Pokémon GO Fest 2026: Global – Everything You Need to Know
Pokémon GO Fest 2026: Global is scheduled to take place on July 11 and 12, 2026, running from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. local time. The event features the global debut of Mega Mewtwo X and Mega Mewtwo Y in Super Mega Raid Battles. Additionally, Zeraora will appear globally for the first time as part of a Special Research story.
Preparation and Strategy
To maximize the 18-hour event, trainers are encouraged to prepare in advance. Because many raids during the event will require groups of strong trainers working together, having a squad ready is essential. Party Play will be active for nine hours during the event; organizing a group of three friends beforehand ensures a seamless experience. Furthermore, players can make up to six Special Trades per day, so preparing Pokémon tags for trades can save time during the event. To accommodate the influx of Legendary and Shiny Pokémon, trainers are advised to clear storage space by transferring Pokémon to the professor or purchasing additional storage in the shop.
The “Genetic Mastery” Research
A key feature of the event is the free Timed Research titled “Genetic Mastery,” available only on July 11 and 12. This research grants trainers a Mega Mewtwo of their choice. The quest is divided into six steps:
- Step 1: Spin 5 PokéStops or gyms, catch 10 Pokémon, and make 3 great throws. Rewards include 2,026 Stardust, a Bouffalant encounter, and 2,026 XP.
- Step 2: Power up Pokémon 10 times and use one Fast TM and one Charged TM. Rewards include 26 Gastly Candy, a Gengar encounter, and 6 Gastly Candy XL.
- Step 3: Catch 20 different species of Pokémon, hatch 2 eggs, and Mega Evolve a Pokémon. Rewards include 3 Rare Candy, a Tropius encounter, and 2,026 Stardust.
Following the third step, trainers must choose between Mega Mewtwo X or Mega Mewtwo Y. The chosen form will have its first level of Mega Evolution unlocked, and the player will receive the corresponding Mega Energy.
- Step 4: Catch 3 Psychic-type Pokémon, make 10 curveball throws, and complete 6 Field Research Tasks. Rewards include 300 Mewtwo X/Y Mega Energy, a Mewtwo encounter, and 26 Mewtwo Candy.
- Step 5: Mega Evolve Mewtwo, power up Psychic-type Pokémon 10 times, and win 3 raids using a team of unique species. Rewards include 2,026 Stardust, 6 Mewtwo Go Fest stickers, and 2,026 XP.
- Step 6: Claim final rewards, including 2,026 XP and 2,026 Stardust.
Mega Mewtwo Y Raid Tactics
Mega Mewtwo Y is described as a “super-powerful Pokémon” and is currently ranked as the best Psychic-type in the game. It is a formidable opponent in Super Mega Raids. To defeat it, trainers should exploit its weaknesses, as the Bug-type is considered ineffective against it.
For those looking for the best counters, Dawn Wings Necrozma is the top non-Mega choice due to its double-Ghost-type moveset. Other recommended non-Mega options include Shadow Tyranitar, Shadow Hydreigon, and Shadow Darkrai. If utilizing Mega Evolutions for the raid, top picks include Mega Mewtwo Y (with Shadow Ball), Mega Tyranitar, Mega Mewtwo X (with Shadow Ball), Mega Gengar, or Mega Rayquaza. If a trainer does not have a Mega Mewtwo, Mega Tyranitar equipped with “Brutal Swing” is a solid alternative. Trainers are advised to have multiple backup teams ready in case of a wipeout during these challenging battles.
Beyond the “Genetic Mastery” quest, the event also includes a second quest titled “A Thunderous Discovery.” Trainers are encouraged to track the habitat hour and raid schedule, while also keeping an eye on other game features like the Go Battle League, Remote Trading, PokéStop Showcases, Routes, and Max Battles.
Find more reporting in our スポーツ section.