Do You Get a Free Raid Pass Every Day? The Ultimate Pokémon GO Guide
Yes, you get one free Raid Pass every day in Pokémon GO, provided you haven’t already claimed one that day. This allows you to participate in one in-person Raid Battle without spending any PokéCoins. However, there are a few caveats and nuances to understand, which we will explore in detail in this comprehensive guide.
Understanding the Free Raid Pass System
The free Raid Pass is a key component of Pokémon GO’s gameplay, encouraging players to engage with the game daily and participate in the social aspect of battling powerful Raid Bosses. Knowing how the system works ensures you maximize your free resources and avoid unnecessary spending.
How to Obtain Your Daily Free Raid Pass
Acquiring your daily free Raid Pass is simple:
- Spin a Photo Disc at a Gym: The primary way to obtain your daily free Raid Pass is by spinning the Photo Disc at any Gym.
- Empty Item Bag: Ensure you have space in your item bag, as the Raid Pass will be added to your inventory. If your bag is full, you won’t be able to claim the pass.
- One Pass at a Time: You can only hold one free Raid Pass at a time. If you already have one in your inventory, you won’t receive another until you use it.
Important Restrictions and Considerations
While the daily free Raid Pass is a valuable asset, it’s important to understand its limitations:
- One Free Pass Per Day: You can only receive one free Raid Pass per calendar day (midnight to midnight, local time). Even if you don’t spin a Gym on a particular day, you won’t get two free passes the next day.
- In-Person Raids Only: Free Raid Passes can only be used for in-person Raids. They cannot be used for Remote Raids.
- No Stacking: You cannot accumulate free Raid Passes. Using your daily pass is crucial to acquiring another the following day.
- Event Exceptions: Certain in-game events might offer additional free Raid Passes, often with specific conditions or timeframes. Always check the in-game News for details about these events.
Maximizing Your Free Raid Pass Usage
To make the most of your free Raid Pass, consider these tips:
- Plan Ahead: Check which Raid Bosses are currently available and strategize which Raids you want to participate in.
- Coordinate with Friends: Coordinate with other players in your local community to tackle challenging Raids together.
- Time Management: Spin a Gym Photo Disc early in the day to claim your free pass and have ample time to participate in a Raid.
- Prioritize Raids: Focus on Raids featuring Pokémon you need for your Pokédex, Pokémon with desirable movesets, or Pokémon that are particularly strong in battle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Raid Passes
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to provide even more clarity on Raid Passes and Raid Battles in Pokémon GO:
1. What is the difference between a Raid Pass and a Premium Battle Pass?
A Raid Pass is the free daily pass you receive from spinning a Gym Photo Disc. It can only be used for in-person Raids. A Premium Battle Pass is purchased with PokéCoins and can be used for either in-person Raids or to enter the GO Battle League.
2. Can I use a Remote Raid Pass for an in-person Raid?
No, Remote Raid Passes can only be used for Remote Raids. They cannot be used to participate in Raids at Gyms physically present in your location.
3. How many Remote Raid Passes can I hold at once?
Generally, you can hold a maximum of three Remote Raid Passes at a time. However, this limit can sometimes be increased during special events.
4. What happens if I lose a Raid Battle?
If you lose a Raid Battle, you do not lose your Raid Pass. You can rejoin the Raid as many times as you need within the Raid’s timeframe, provided you haven’t already defeated the Raid Boss.
5. Can I use a Raid Pass if I’m already at the Gym but the Raid hasn’t started yet?
Yes, you can use your Raid Pass even before the Raid Egg hatches. This allows you to secure your spot in the Raid Lobby and prepare your team.
6. If I use a Raid Pass and the Raid is canceled, do I get my pass back?
Yes, if a Raid is canceled (e.g., due to a network error or the Raid Boss despawning), you will receive your Raid Pass back.
7. How do I know which Raids are nearby?
You can see nearby Raids on the in-game map. Gyms with an egg or a Raid Boss on top indicate active or upcoming Raids. You can also use social media groups or community chats to coordinate with other players.
8. What are EX Raids, and how do I get an EX Raid Pass?
EX Raids are special Raids featuring particularly rare or powerful Pokémon. To receive an EX Raid Pass, you need to have recently completed a Raid at a Gym that is designated as an EX Raid Gym. EX Raid Passes are invite-only.
9. How do I find EX Raid Gyms?
EX Raid Gyms are typically located in parks or sponsored locations. While there isn’t a definitive list, participating in Raids at different Gyms increases your chances of receiving an EX Raid Pass.
10. Can I give my Raid Pass to a friend?
No, Raid Passes cannot be gifted or traded to other players.
11. What are the benefits of participating in Raids?
Participating in Raids offers numerous benefits, including the chance to catch rare and powerful Pokémon, earn valuable rewards like Rare Candies and TMs, and gain experience points to level up your Trainer.
12. How many players are needed to complete a Raid?
The number of players required to complete a Raid depends on the Raid Level (1-Star, 3-Star, 5-Star, Mega) and the strength of the Raid Boss. Some 1-Star Raids can be soloed, while 5-Star and Mega Raids often require multiple players working together.
13. What are Mega Raids?
Mega Raids feature Mega-Evolved Pokémon. Defeating a Mega Pokémon in a Raid allows you to obtain Mega Energy, which is required to Mega Evolve your own Pokémon.
14. How do I use Mega Energy?
You use Mega Energy to Mega Evolve specific Pokémon. The amount of Mega Energy required varies depending on the Pokémon. Once a Pokémon has been Mega Evolved, it can be Mega Evolved again for free after a cooldown period.
15. What are Shadow Raids?
Shadow Raids are a special type of Raid featuring Shadow Pokémon. These Raids are typically more challenging than regular Raids and often require more players to complete. Some Shadow Raids can only be done in person and may require Purified Gems to subdue an enraged Shadow Pokémon.
Conclusion
The daily free Raid Pass is a fundamental aspect of Pokémon GO, providing players with a cost-effective way to engage with the game’s Raid Battles. By understanding the rules and limitations of the free Raid Pass system, and utilizing the strategies outlined in this guide, you can maximize your Raid participation and strengthen your Pokémon collection without breaking the bank. Happy raiding!