Mastering Pokémon GO Showcases: Removal, Strategies, and FAQs

Yes, you absolutely can remove a Pokémon from a Showcase in Pokémon GO! While the game doesn’t always make it immediately obvious, there are a few key methods to achieve this. Knowing how to manage your Pokémon in Showcases is essential for maximizing your chances of winning rewards and efficiently managing your Pokémon storage.

Understanding Pokémon GO Showcases

Pokémon GO Showcases are a relatively new feature that allows trainers to display their prize-worthy Pokémon at specific PokéStops. These Showcases typically focus on a particular Pokémon species or size, and trainers compete against each other to have the biggest or best specimen. Winning a Showcase can grant you valuable rewards such as items, Stardust, and even a medal.

Methods for Removing Pokémon from Showcases

Here’s a breakdown of the most effective methods to remove a Pokémon from a Showcase:

Replacing with Another Pokémon

This is the most common and straightforward method. Here’s how it works:

1. Visit the PokéStop where your Pokémon is currently in a Showcase.
2. Interact with the PokéStop to view the Showcase details.
3. Select the option to “Enter a Pokémon.”
4. Choose a different Pokémon from your storage to enter into the Showcase. This automatically removes your previously showcased Pokémon.

Using the “Pokémon in Showcases” Section (Indirect Removal)

This method is slightly more indirect but can be useful if you’re managing multiple Showcases:

1. Go to the “Today” tab in the Pokémon GO app.
2. Look for the “Pokémon in Showcases” section.
3. Tap on the Showcase you wish to manage.
4. This will take you to the PokéStop location. From there, follow the steps for Replacing with Another Pokémon (above).

The “Switcheroo” Technique

This is a clever trick that leverages the game’s mechanics:

1. Visit a PokéStop that hosts a different Showcase than the one your Pokémon is currently in.
2. Interact with the PokéStop to view the Showcase details.
3. Select the option to “Enter a Pokémon.”
4. Choose the Pokémon that’s currently in the other Showcase you want to leave. The game will prompt you with a warning that this action will remove the Pokémon from its current Showcase. Confirm the action. Your Pokémon is now removed from the original Showcase and placed in the new one.

Important Considerations

• You Can’t Directly “Remove” from the Today Tab: The “Pokémon in Showcases” section in the “Today” tab is only for viewing and navigating to the PokéStop. You cannot simply click a “remove” button from this screen.
• One Showcase at a Time: A Pokémon can only be entered into one Showcase at a time. This is why the “Switcheroo” technique works.
• Entering Doesn’t Affect Pokémon Availability: Entering a Pokémon into a Showcase doesn’t prevent you from trading, transferring, evolving, or changing its form.
• Showcase Limits: You can only enter a limited number of Showcases simultaneously (typically three).

Mastering Showcase Strategy

Understanding how to remove and manage your Pokémon in Showcases opens up strategic opportunities:

• Optimize for Rewards: If you realize your Pokémon isn’t performing well in a particular Showcase, don’t hesitate to remove it and try another Showcase where it might have a better chance of winning.
• Efficient Pokémon Management: Removing Pokémon from Showcases allows you to free up valuable space and use them for other activities like battling, trading, or evolving.
• Leverage Multiple Accounts: Some trainers use multiple accounts to enter more Showcases and increase their chances of winning.

FAQs: Pokémon GO Showcases

Here are 15 frequently asked questions about Pokémon GO Showcases, designed to enhance your understanding and mastery of this feature:

1. Can I enter the same Pokémon in multiple Showcases simultaneously?

No, an individual Pokémon can only be entered into one Showcase at a time. This is why the “Switcheroo” technique works as a method for removing from one showcase and entering another.

2. What happens if I try to transfer a Pokémon that’s currently in a Showcase?

The game will allow you to transfer a Pokémon even if it’s in a Showcase. Entering your monster into the Pokemon GO Showcase doesn’t leave them at the PokeStop. Also, even after entering the Pokemon into a Showcase, trainers can still trade, transfer, change form, or evolve it.

3. Is there a limit to how many Pokémon I can enter into Showcases in total?

Yes, each trainer can only enter 3 Showcases at a time.

4. What kind of rewards can I get from winning a Pokémon Showcase?

Winning Showcases can reward you with various items, Stardust, and even a special medal to commemorate your achievement.

5. How do I know if a PokéStop is hosting a Showcase?

When you are in range of a Pokestop that is hosting a showcase, you may notice a symbol on the Map above a PokéStop. This is an indicator that a Trainer has chosen to showcase a Pokémon at this location.

6. What happens if two Pokémon have the exact same size or CP in a Showcase?

The Pokémon that was entered first will likely be ranked higher. However, the specifics of tie-breaking might vary, and Niantic hasn’t explicitly stated the exact criteria.

7. Can I change my mind after entering a Pokémon into a Showcase?

Yes, you can remove your Pokémon and enter a different one as long as the Showcase is still active.

8. How long do Pokémon Showcases typically last?

Showcases typically last for a few days, but the duration can vary depending on the specific event or theme. Check the in-game news for information on the duration.

9. Is it possible to view the rankings of a Showcase without visiting the PokéStop?

You can view the Showcases you are participating in and navigate to them through the “Today” tab. But in order to view the rankings, you must visit the Pokestop.

10. Do I need to be a certain level to participate in Pokémon Showcases?

As of the writing of this article, there are no level restrictions for participating in Showcases.

11. What happens if the PokéStop hosting a Showcase is removed or disabled?

If the PokéStop hosting a Showcase is removed or disabled, the Showcase will likely be canceled, and you may receive some consolation rewards.

12. Does it cost anything to enter a Pokémon into a Showcase?

No, entering a Pokémon into a Showcase is free.

13. Can I use a Shadow or Purified Pokémon in a Showcase?

Yes, you can use Shadow and Purified Pokémon in Showcases, as long as they meet the Showcase’s criteria.

14. How does weather affect Pokémon Showcases?

Weather does not directly affect the Showcases themselves. It may influence the spawn rates of certain Pokémon, which indirectly affects what Pokémon you can enter.

15. What are some strategies for winning Pokémon Showcases?

• Prioritize relevant Pokémon: Focus on Pokémon that match the Showcase theme.
• Power up: Increase the CP or size of your Pokémon to improve its ranking.
• Participate early: Entering early can give you an advantage, as others may not have found their best specimens yet.
• Monitor competition: Check the rankings regularly to see how your Pokémon is performing and adjust your strategy accordingly.

Conclusion

Pokémon GO Showcases are a fun and rewarding feature that adds another layer of depth to the game. By understanding how to remove and manage your Pokémon in Showcases, you can maximize your chances of winning and efficiently manage your Pokémon collection. Keep experimenting, stay informed about new Showcase events, and happy showcasing! To learn more about the educational aspects of gaming and community engagement, visit the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.