Prepare for the Raging Serpent: Pokémon GO Announces Mega Gyarados Raid Day

As the summer season winds down, Pokémon GO is set to cap off the month with a splash, bringing a fan-favorite back for a special event. Niantic has officially announced that Mega Gyarados Raid Day will take place on Sunday, August 31, 2025. This event will run from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM local time, giving trainers around the world a concentrated window to battle and catch this ferocious Water/Dark-type Pokémon. While some in the community have voiced their surprise at a second Raid Day for a Pokémon that has already had one, the event is a prime opportunity for new players and those looking for a perfect shiny to get in on the action.

The announcement of another Mega Gyarados Raid Day highlights Niantic’s strategic approach to its live-service game. By bringing back popular Mega Pokémon, they are not only catering to players who may have missed previous opportunities but also providing a new incentive for players to return to the game. This approach, which focuses on re-engaging the existing player base, is a key component of the game’s overall LTV (Lifetime Value) strategy. The event will also be a major driver of in-app purchase revenue, as players will be encouraged to buy Premium Raid Passes to maximize their opportunities during the three-hour window.

Bonuses and Battles: A Deep Dive into the Event

As with all Raid Day events, trainers can expect a variety of bonuses to enhance their experience. Niantic has confirmed that all gyms will be taken over by Mega Gyarados during the event, ensuring that players will have no trouble finding a raid to join. Additionally, players will receive up to five additional free Raid Passes by spinning Photo Discs at gyms, for a total of six free passes for the day. For those looking to raid remotely, the Remote Raid Pass limit will be increased to 20 from Saturday, August 30 at 5:00 PM to Sunday, August 31 at 8:00 PM PDT, giving remote players plenty of time to join the fun.

For a small fee, trainers can also purchase an event ticket that provides even more bonuses, including eight additional Raid Passes, an increased chance to get Rare Candy XL, and a Stardust bonus. This tiered approach to event monetization is a classic strategy in the mobile gaming space, as it allows players to choose their level of investment while still providing a valuable experience for free-to-play users. A major draw for many players is the increased chance of encountering a shiny Gyarados from raids, a valuable incentive for trainers who have yet to add the majestic red serpent to their collection. Additionally, the Gyarados caught during the event will know the Charged Attack Aqua Tail, which is a solid move for both Trainer Battles and raids.

• Increased Raids: Mega Gyarados will appear in all raids during the event’s three-hour window.
• Free Passes: Trainers can get up to six free Raid Passes, with additional bonuses for ticket holders.
• Shiny Odds: There will be an increased chance to encounter a shiny Gyarados from raids.
• Exclusive Move: Gyarados caught during the event will know the Charged Attack Aqua Tail.

Be Prepared: How to Counter Mega Gyarados

Mega Gyarados is a formidable foe, but with the right team, it can be taken down with a small group of trainers. As a Water and Dark-type Pokémon, it is weak to Electric, Grass, Fighting, Bug, and Fairy-type moves. The best counters are those that can hit hard with these types of moves, as a quick defeat will grant more Mega Energy. Top-tier counters include: Mega Lucario, Mega Sceptile, Mega Heracross, and Mega Gardevoir. Other excellent choices are Kartana, Xurkitree, and the Legendary Pokémon Zekrom and Tapu Bulu. With its relatively high CP and powerful attacks, trainers should come prepared with a well-rounded team to ensure a successful raid.

The Mega Gyarados Raid Day is a fantastic way to end the month for Pokémon GO trainers. Whether you’re a new player looking to get your first Mega Gyarados or a veteran trainer hunting for that elusive shiny, the event offers a valuable and exciting opportunity. With its generous bonuses and a challenging raid to conquer, it’s a perfect example of how live-service games can keep their communities engaged and thriving. So, charge up your phones, gather your friends, and get ready to face the wrath of the raging serpent on August 31.