Niantic has revealed that Pokémon GO trainers can now utilize Remote Raid Passes for Shadow Raids for the first time during the Fashion Week: Taken Over event. Originally launched in 2023, Shadow Raids have quickly become a favored method for acquiring powerful Pokémon.

As 2025 begins, Niantic has already rolled out numerous updates for the augmented reality phenomenon. January alone brings the return of Ralts for the second Community Day of the month. With a fresh event launching, developers have delighted the community by finally implementing this highly requested feature.

Throughout the Fashion Week: Taken Over event, running from Wednesday, January 15 at midnight to Sunday, January 19, 2025 at 8:00 PM local time, trainers can participate in one-star, three-star, and five-star Shadow Raids either locally or remotely. Successful participants will have enhanced opportunities to capture Pokémon with improved Individual Values.

Remote Raid Access Comes to Shadow Raids for a Limited Time

Although primarily confined to the Fashion Week event, players can also participate remotely in the Shadow Ho-Oh Raid Day on January 19 between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM local time. During this special raid day, trainers will enjoy increased odds of encountering a rare shiny Shadow Ho-Oh and can teach it the exclusive Charged Attack Sacred Fire. Additionally, Charged TMs can be used to help Shadow Pokémon replace the move Frustration.

The community has eagerly anticipated the ability to use Remote Raid Passes in Shadow Raids since their debut in 2023. It's important to note that this remote access will be discontinued once the Fashion Week: Taken Over event concludes.

Whether this marks a permanent change or a temporary trial remains uncertain. Niantic has previously received feedback regarding the challenges of organizing in-person groups for demanding battles like Dynamax and Gigantamax encounters, suggesting that making remote Shadow Raids permanent would address a significant player concern.