The rise of Pokémon Go was meteoric back when it launched a year ago. Though there’s certainly been some drop off in terms of player engagement, there are still quite a few active users. Along with recent changes to Gyms, the introduction of Raid Battles, and so forth, developer Niantic has decided to go the extra mile for Pokémon Go‘s first anniversary with even more additions and surprises.
No. 25 was, is, and likely will always be the face of Pokémon, so it only makes sense that Niantic would choose to highlight the momentous occasion with the most famous Pikachu around. Starting July 6 and running through to July 24, Ash’s Pikachu will be available to catch out in the wild. This isn’t the first time a special Pikachu with a hat has been offered (party and Santa cap variants have also been made available), but this particular one will be able to keep its cap even after evolving into Raichu!
There’s also the opportunity to purchase special Anniversary Boxes for the event. Essentially loot crates that can be bought to get discounted in-game items, within each can be found:
- Incubators (x6)
- Max Revives (x6)
- Ultra Balls (x20)
- Raid Pass (x2)
No word on Legendaries finally appearing in-game, but the Pikachu giveaway runs until the weekend of July 22, which coincides with the special anniversary festivities taking place in Chicago. It’s possible an announcement might come then, but in the interim enjoy another Pikachu event and some helpful gear!
Are you still playing Pokémon Go? Are you looking forward to getting your hands on Ash’s Pikachu? Tell us below!
Source: Niantic