How to Get Raid Passes Fast in Pokémon GO
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
The burning question for any dedicated Pokémon GO trainer eager to battle powerful Raid bosses: How do you get raid passes fast? Unfortunately, the game doesn’t make unlimited passes readily available. Instead, it requires a mix of strategic gameplay and understanding the game’s mechanics. The quick answer is that you can get one free raid pass per day by spinning a Photo Disc at a Gym. Beyond that, the options involve completing specific research tasks, participating in special events, or purchasing Premium Battle Passes or Remote Raid Passes through the in-game shop. Let’s delve deeper into the specifics of each method to maximize your raid participation.
Understanding the Basics: Free Raid Passes
The most straightforward way to acquire raid passes without spending real money is to claim the daily free raid pass. Here’s how it works:
- Spinning Gym Photo Discs: Once per day, you can spin the Photo Disc at any Gym to receive a Raid Pass. This pass allows you to participate in a local raid battle.
- One Free Pass Limit: You can only hold one free raid pass at a time. If you haven’t used your free pass from the previous day, you can stack it for a maximum of two free raid passes at a time, but that’s it. You cannot stack multiple daily free passes.
- Daily Reset: The ability to collect your daily free raid pass resets every day, typically at midnight local time. Be sure to spin a Gym daily to take advantage of this free pass.
Free Passes in Detail
The free raid pass is a vital resource. It’s important to note that this pass can only be used for raids at Gyms where you physically are, meaning it won’t work for Remote Raids. This is the most consistent method of gaining free raid passes, and it requires consistent daily play.
Special Research and Events: A Chance for More
While daily free passes are the most reliable method, Special Research and in-game Events offer additional chances to gain passes:
- Special Research Tasks: Certain Special Research tasks or quest lines sometimes reward players with a free Raid Pass upon completion. Keep an eye on new research tasks and always prioritize those that offer such rewards. This is a great way to stock up for specific raid days or weeks.
- Event Rewards: During specific events, Niantic sometimes increases the availability of raid passes, either through research tasks, spinning special event-themed pokéstops, or as a reward for meeting certain event goals. Be sure to pay attention to the official Pokémon GO news to stay informed of these opportunities.
- Research Breakthrough: Completing 7 Field Research tasks contributes towards your Research Breakthrough, which occasionally offers a chance at a free Remote Raid Pass. While not guaranteed, this is a consistent way to try and get a valuable Remote Raid Pass.
Understanding Event Pass Opportunities
The availability of free passes during events is often unpredictable. Always check the in-game news and official Pokémon GO social media channels for any announcements. Events such as Community Days or Raid Days might have special incentives.
Premium Battle Passes: The Paid Path
When it comes to maximizing your raid participation, Premium Battle Passes are the most direct method, although they cost money.
- Purchasing from the Shop: Premium Battle Passes can be bought using PokeCoins in the in-game shop. These passes are the best option for trainers wanting to do more than one raid per day.
- Versatility: A Premium Battle Pass can be used for local raids and doesn’t expire until used. Unlike the daily free pass, you can hold more than one at a time, allowing you to quickly jump into multiple raids.
- Strategic Use: If you are planning a heavy raid day, you can stock up on a few Premium Battle Passes to ensure you can engage in multiple battles. These are particularly useful during Raid Hours or special events.
When Premium Passes Are Worth It
Consider purchasing Premium Battle Passes if you raid frequently or when there is a special event with boosted shiny Pokémon rates or a new, highly desirable raid boss.
Remote Raid Passes: Battle from Home
For those who can’t always get to a Gym, Remote Raid Passes are a game-changer.
- Joining from Anywhere: These passes allow you to join a raid battle remotely. You can raid at gyms you can see on your map, even if you’re not physically there.
- Limited Availability: Remote Raid Passes are typically purchased with PokeCoins from the in-game shop, although there can be opportunities to get them from completing research breakthroughs.
- Limited Usage: A limitation of Remote Raid Passes is the limited number you can hold and the daily limit to participate in remote raids (currently at 5).
How to Make the Most of Remote Raid Passes
Remote Raid Passes are crucial for taking on raids in far away locations. They are particularly handy if you don’t have nearby Gyms or during events when raids are heavily concentrated in certain areas.
FAQs: Your Burning Raid Pass Questions Answered
1. How many free raid passes can you get in a day?
You can only get one free raid pass per day by spinning a Photo Disc at a Gym.
2. Can you stack daily free raid passes?
No, you can’t stack daily free raid passes. You can only hold one at a time. However, if you didn’t use the previous day’s pass, you can have a maximum of two at a time, but they can’t be stacked for future use.
3. Can you get raid passes from gifts?
No, you cannot get raid passes from gifts in Pokémon GO.
4. Can you get free Remote Raid Passes?
Yes, it is possible to get free Remote Raid Passes from completing a Research Breakthrough by finishing 7 days of research tasks. This is not guaranteed but offers a chance for free remote access.
5. What are Premium Battle Passes for?
Premium Battle Passes allow you to join any local raid battle at any gym. They can be purchased in the in-game shop and do not expire until used, meaning they are essential for doing multiple raids per day.
6. What is a raid egg?
A Raid Egg appears at a Gym before a raid. The egg will hatch after a countdown, revealing the Pokémon that you will be battling.
7. What do the different colored raid eggs mean?
Pink Eggs are for Level 1 Raids. Yellow Eggs are for Level 3 Raids. Purple Eggs with white stripes are for Level 5 Raids. And Beige/Red Eggs are for Mega Raids.
8. How do you find Mega Raids?
Mega Raids can be found by looking for the tan and brown eggs with a Mega Energy symbol above them at Gyms.
9. What is Raid Hour?
Raid Hours occur every Wednesday from 6 PM to 7 PM local time. During Raid Hour, more Gyms will feature active raids.
10. Can you beat a 5-star raid alone?
No, you cannot beat a 5-star raid alone. These require multiple trainers for success.
11. Can you beat a 3-star raid alone?
While possible, it’s very difficult to beat a 3-star raid alone. It’s recommended to have other trainers with you to raid.
12. Can you solo a 1-star raid?
Yes, you can solo a 1-star raid with most trainers having type matchup knowledge.
13. Can you solo a 4-star raid?
It is extremely difficult to solo a 4-star raid and requires a team of maxed out Pokémon with specific movesets, type matchups, and favorable weather.
14. How do I get free PokeCoins?
You can get free PokeCoins by placing Pokémon at your team’s color Gym and defending it against opposing players. Once your Pokémon is defeated you will automatically receive coins.
15. What is special about Raid Hour?
Raid Hours offer a great opportunity to get rewards, including Premier Balls, Rare Candies, TMs, and Golden Razz Berries. Additionally, the chance of encountering shiny Pokémon increases during this time.
By understanding these strategies and frequently asked questions, you can effectively manage your raid pass resources and increase your participation in raid battles. Remember, consistency, strategy, and understanding the mechanics of Pokémon GO are key to maximizing your raid experience. Happy raiding!