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Unraveling the Mysteries of Suicune Raids: A Trainer’s Guide

Figuring out the exact timing for Suicune raids in Pokémon GO can feel like navigating a whirlpool! While specific Suicune raid events have varied over time, the general rules and recurring event types provide a solid framework. Suicune raids can start as early as 5:00 AM and have the chance to appear until 7:45 PM local time. However, it’s crucial to understand the mechanics of Raid Hours and special events to maximize your chances of encountering this legendary beast. Read on to learn all the details!

Decoding Raid Spawn Times and Events

The appearance of Suicune in raids isn’t entirely random. Niantic, the developer behind Pokémon GO, often schedules specific periods when certain Pokémon are more likely to appear in raids. These events can significantly influence when and where you’ll find Suicune. Let’s break down the common raid structures:

Regular Raid Spawns: The Daily Window

Outside of dedicated events, Raid Battles are designed to occur within a specific timeframe each day. As mentioned, raids generally begin appearing around 5:00 AM local time and conclude by 7:45 PM local time. However, Suicune is a Legendary Pokémon, so it will only appear in 5-Star Raids during these times, not the lower tier ones. This means you’ll need to be on the lookout at Gyms in your area throughout the day.

Keep an eye out for the Raid Egg above Gyms, as this indicates an upcoming Raid Battle. The timer on the Raid Egg will let you know exactly when the raid will start. You can see a Raid going on if you can see a Raid Egg above the Gym, alongside a countdown timer.

Raid Hours: Legendary Encounters

Raid Hours are a weekly highlight for many Pokémon GO players. They typically occur every Wednesday from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM local time. During this hour, Gyms become incredibly active with 5-Star Raids, often featuring a specific Legendary Pokémon. While not guaranteed, Suicune has been featured in Raid Hours in the past.

When Suicune is featured in Raid Hour, the vast majority of Gyms will host Suicune raids during that hour. This is the optimal time to coordinate with friends or local Pokémon GO communities to take down multiple Suicune raids. During Raid Hours, a Legendary Pokémon appears at all Gyms that can host a Raid at that time.

Special Events: Limited-Time Opportunities

Niantic frequently introduces special events that feature specific Pokémon in raids. These events can be tied to anniversaries, seasonal celebrations, or the release of new Pokémon. During these events, the spawn rates of certain Pokémon, including Suicune, are often boosted in raids.

These events are typically announced in advance through the Pokémon GO app, social media channels, and Pokémon GO news websites. Always check these sources to stay informed about upcoming events and any raid schedule changes! Raikou, Entei, and Suicune are available in 5-Star Raids from Saturday, September 23rd, 2023 – Friday, October 6th, 2023 at 10:00AM local time. There is also set to be two dedicated Raid Hours for these Pokemon from 6:00PM to 7:00PM local time on September 27th, 2023 and October 4th, 2023.

Optimizing Your Suicune Raid Hunting

Now that you understand the different ways Suicune can appear in raids, here are some tips to maximize your chances of finding and defeating it:

Stay Informed: Regularly check the Pokémon GO app and official social media channels for announcements regarding upcoming events and raid schedules.
Monitor Local Gyms: Keep an eye on Gyms in your area. Utilize the in-game map and Gym tracking features (if available through third-party apps, use with caution) to monitor for Raid Eggs or active raids.
Join a Community: Connect with local Pokémon GO communities through social media, messaging apps, or forums. These communities are often the best source of information regarding raid locations and times, and can help you coordinate with other trainers.
Prepare Your Team: Suicune is a Water-type Pokémon, so build a team of strong Electric and Grass-type Pokémon to exploit its weaknesses. Level up your Pokémon and power them up with appropriate Charged Moves.
Gather a Group: Suicune is a challenging 5-Star Raid boss. It’s highly recommended to team up with other trainers to increase your chances of success.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about Suicune raids in Pokémon GO that will give you more valuable information:

Can Suicune be shiny in Pokémon GO?

Yes! Those who defeat Suicune in a raid battle have a chance to encounter a Shiny Suicune. The Shiny encounter is, however, not guaranteed; you’ll need to be lucky to encounter one.
How many people are needed to beat a Suicune raid?

Beating Suicune should take at least 3 trainers with Pokemon of sufficient power. However, a larger group is recommended for trainers with weaker Pokémon or those who are less experienced with raids.
What are Suicune’s weaknesses?

Suicune is a Water-type Pokémon, making it vulnerable to Electric and Grass-type attacks. Build your team accordingly!
What are the best Pokémon to use against Suicune in raids?

Strong Electric and Grass-type Pokémon are your best bet. Some top contenders include Zekrom, Raikou, Magnezone, and Kartana.
What happens during a Raid Hour?

Raid Hours take place every Wednesday from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. local time. During Raid Hours, a Legendary Pokémon appears at many Gyms that can host a Raid at that time, or at all of them. There is an increased chance of acquiring the assigned 5-Star Raid Pokemon at that time.
How long do Raid Battles last?

A Raid Battle lasts for 45 minutes once the Raid Egg hatches. You have that window of time to defeat the Raid Boss.
Where can I find information about upcoming raid events?

The Pokémon GO app, the official Pokémon GO website, and Pokémon GO social media channels (Twitter, Facebook, etc.) are all good sources of information. The GamesLearningSociety.org website is also a good resource for staying current on this type of information!
What is a Raid Egg?

A Raid Egg appears above a Gym to indicate an upcoming Raid Battle. The egg has a countdown timer that shows when the raid will begin.
Can I participate in raids remotely?

Yes, you can use Remote Raid Passes to join raids that are not physically located near you. However, there may be limits on the number of Remote Raids you can participate in per day.
How do I get a Remote Raid Pass?

Remote Raid Passes can be purchased in the in-game shop using PokeCoins.
What are Premier Balls?

Premier Balls are the only type of Poke Ball you can use to catch a Raid Boss after defeating it. The number of Premier Balls you receive depends on factors such as your damage contribution, Gym control, and friendship level with other trainers in the raid. Raid Hours give trainers plenty of opportunities to get Premier Balls.
What are Rare Candies?

Rare Candies can be used to feed any Pokemon and add a Candy to the Pokemon’s evolution line. Raid Hours give trainers plenty of opportunities to get Rare Candies.
Can Suicune be soloed?

Suicune is a tough opponent and is not one that can be completed solo, so always go into this Raid with the help of others.
Is Genesect a Legendary Pokemon?

Genesect is a Legendary Bug/Steel type Pokémon.
What time do Pokemon raids start?

Raid Battles occur at Pokémon Gyms and have a chance to appear between 5:00 AM and 7:45 PM local time.

Master the Raid and Catch the Suicune

By understanding the various raid events and following the tips outlined in this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to track down and conquer Suicune raids. Remember to stay informed, prepare your team, and coordinate with other trainers to increase your chances of success. Happy raiding, trainers!

What time do Suicune raids start?