Can You Remote Raid a Local Raid in Pokémon GO? The Ultimate Guide
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The world of Pokémon GO raids can be confusing, especially with all the different types of passes and restrictions. One common question that trainers often ask is: Can you remote raid a local raid? The straightforward answer is no, not entirely in the way you might expect. While you cannot directly use a Remote Raid Pass to participate in certain local-only raids like Shadow Raids or Elite Raids, you can be invited to any in-person raid by a friend who is physically present at the gym. This means you’ll still need that in-person trainer to initiate the invite, effectively bridging the gap between remote and local play.
Let’s dive deeper into the nuances and explore the mechanics behind this, as well as tackle some frequently asked questions.
Understanding Remote Raiding and Local Raids
What Are Remote Raids?
Remote Raids allow trainers to participate in Raid Battles from anywhere in the world, right from the comfort of their own home. The key to accessing these raids is the Remote Raid Pass, which can be purchased from the in-game shop. However, as of recent updates, limitations have been placed on remote raiding, including a cap on the number of remote raids one can participate in per day and restrictions on specific raid types.
What Are Local Raids?
Local Raids (sometimes referred to as in-person raids) are those that require trainers to be physically present at the gym hosting the raid. These raids often feature powerful Pokémon, and sometimes exclusive rewards. Shadow Raids and Elite Raids are prime examples of raid types that can only be done locally. To participate, you’ll generally need a Raid Pass (obtained daily by spinning a Photo Disc at a Gym) or a Premium Battle Pass.
The Gray Area: Invited Remote Raiders
The “gray area” emerges when trainers who are physically present at a raid invite their friends to join remotely. This creates a hybrid experience where some trainers are local while others participate from a distance using Remote Raid Passes.
The Mechanics of Remote Raiding Local Raids (Via Invitation)
Here’s how the process typically works:
- A Trainer is Physically Present: A trainer must be at the gym where the local raid is taking place.
- Lobby Creation: This trainer initiates the raid battle, using either a regular Raid Pass or a Premium Battle Pass.
- Invitation Process: Once inside the raid lobby, the trainer can invite up to five friends, regardless of their location.
- Remote Participation: Invited friends can then use their Remote Raid Passes to join the raid lobby and participate in the battle.
- Restrictions Apply: While invited friends can participate remotely, keep in mind the overall limitations of remote raiding, such as the maximum number of remote raiders allowed in a single lobby (which can be temporarily adjusted during specific events).
Why Can’t I Just Use a Remote Raid Pass on Any Raid from Afar?
The restrictions surrounding remote raiding are primarily driven by Niantic’s desire to encourage in-person interaction and maintain the “unique experience” of playing Pokémon GO. By limiting the use of Remote Raid Passes on certain raid types, they incentivize trainers to venture out, explore their surroundings, and connect with other players in their local communities. As the Games Learning Society (GamesLearningSociety.org) explores, game mechanics significantly impact player behavior and social dynamics.
The Impact of Changes to Remote Raiding
Niantic’s decisions regarding Remote Raid Passes have stirred considerable debate within the Pokémon GO community. Some players feel that the increased cost of Remote Raid Passes and the limitations placed on their use have made the game less accessible, particularly for those in rural areas or with limited mobility. Others argue that these changes are necessary to preserve the core values of the game and prevent it from becoming solely a remote experience. The changes have led to some people leaving Pokemon Go.
What About Campfire?
Campfire, Niantic’s social app, aims to facilitate connections between trainers and help them find nearby Raid Battles, but it does not circumvent the limitations on Remote Raid Passes or enable remote participation in local-only raids without an invite. Campfire is useful for coordinating with others and finding trainers willing to invite you, but it doesn’t change the fundamental rules.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Remote Raiding and Local Raids
1. How many remote raiders can join a raid lobby?
Up to 5 trainers can typically join a raid lobby with a Remote Raid Pass, although this number can be temporarily adjusted during special events. If more than 5 trainers try to join remotely, a new lobby will be created.
2. Can I use a Remote Raid Pass to join a raid that is physically close to me without being at the gym?
Yes, you can use a Remote Raid Pass to join raids that are close to your location, as long as you are not physically at the gym. This is a key advantage for trainers who may have difficulty reaching the gym in person.
3. Can I host a local raid using Team Up?
Yes, you can use Team Up to host a local raid and form a group with up to five nearby trainers. This allows you to coordinate with others and tackle challenging raids together.
4. Do I need a Remote Raid Pass to host a raid?
You will only need a Remote Raid Pass if you are not within an interactable distance of the gym. If you are physically present, you can use a regular Raid Pass or a Premium Battle Pass.
5. Are there any raids that I can’t do remotely?
Yes, certain raid types, such as Shadow Raids and Elite Raids, are designated as local-only events. You must be physically present at the gym to participate in these raids unless invited by someone in person.
6. How many remote raids can I do in a day?
Trainers are typically limited to participating in 5 remote raids per day. However, this limit can be temporarily lifted during special events.
7. Why are Remote Raid Passes so expensive?
Niantic has stated that the price increase for Remote Raid Passes is intended to support the long-term sustainability of the game and encourage in-person interaction.
8. How can I get more Remote Raid Passes?
Remote Raid Passes can be purchased from the in-game shop or occasionally acquired as rewards for completing research tasks or participating in special events.
9. Can I invite friends to a local raid if they are not nearby?
Yes, trainers who are physically present at a raid can invite up to 5 friends, regardless of their location.
10. Can I remote raid a Shadow Raid?
No, Remote Raid Passes are not eligible to be used in Shadow Raids. These raids require in-person participation.
11. How do I get a free Raid Pass every day?
You can collect one free Raid Pass per day by spinning a Photo Disc at a Gym. Note that you cannot hold more than one regular Raid Pass at a time.
12. How many Remote Raid Passes can I hold at once?
Typically, you can hold a maximum of 3 Remote Raid Passes in your inventory. However, purchasing a Remote Raid Pass 3-Pack may allow you to temporarily exceed this limit, holding up to 5 passes if you already have 2.
13. Why is Pokémon GO limiting remote raids?
Niantic believes that limiting remote raids is necessary to encourage in-person interaction and preserve the unique experience of playing Pokémon GO.
14. Can I do a 5-star raid with just two people?
While technically possible, successfully completing a 5-star raid with only two people usually requires very strong Pokémon teams, optimal weather conditions, and sometimes friendship or other boosts. It’s generally recommended to have a larger group for 5-star raids.
15. How many trainers can I invite to a raid?
You can invite up to 5 friends to a raid, provided you are physically present at the gym. Remember that the overall limit on remote raiders still applies.
In conclusion, while you can’t directly use a Remote Raid Pass on every local raid, the ability to be invited by a friend offers a bridge between remote and in-person play. Understanding the mechanics and limitations of Remote Raid Passes is essential for navigating the ever-evolving world of Pokémon GO raids. Remember to stay informed about updates and announcements from Niantic to ensure you are always up-to-date on the latest changes.