A Pokémon’s Mega Evolution is supposed to be a powerful thing, but one that remains worthwhile. Niantic is looking to improve on the mechanic for the popular mobile AR game with a new major update.
Back in 2020, Niantic introduce Mega Evolutions to Pokémon GO. Based on the feature from the X/Y mainline Pokémon game. Though the introduction was not met too kindly. Instead, it often criticized for aspects like balance and energy costs.
Well, instead of a simple patch, Niantic is reworking the entire Mega Evolution system. Here are some of the changes:
Mega Evolution
- Mega Evolution is a one-time cost, instead of every time
- There is a “fatigue” phase after Mega Evolving where you cannot Mega Evolve again.
- The wait time will depend on that Pokémon’s Mega Level
- Pokémon have Mega Levels, which increase the more you Mega Evolve them.
- You can skip the wait time by investing more Mega Energy into it.
Bonuses and Raids
- There are increased chances for Candy XL and more XP for catching Pokémon of the same type as your Mega Evolved.
- Mega Raids will generally be easier, requiring less people
- You can Mega Evolve your Pokémon from the Raid and Battle lobby screen.
And of course, several new Mega Evolutions have been added to the game, which were teased in the announcement video above. This includes Mega Kangaskhan and Mega Latios/Latias. Since Legendary Pokémon can’t exactly be caught easily in the wild, we wonder how Niantic will handle that. Walking partner bonuses, if we had to guess.
The Mega Evolution update is live now in Australia and New Zealand, with the rest of the world expected to get it soon. Keep an eye out for an update. Otherwise, you can see more on the official website.