Prepare for trouble, and make it double. The dreaded Team Rocket has invaded the peaceful world of Pokémon GO.
Now known as Team GO Rocket, the underground syndicate has taken over PokéStops and is using shadow Pokémon to gain control. Players will encounter the team, battle their abused Pokémon, and even capture and purify the Shadow Pokémon.
“The world of Pokémon GO is in peril. An organization called Team GO Rocket has invaded PokéStops and is in possession of Shadow Pokémon that behave strangely and seem to be in pain. Team GO Rocket is clearly up to no good, and we need your help! Professor Willow and the team leaders have been hard at work observing and researching these happenings with Team GO Rocket, and they’ve come up with a plan to restore the PokéStops and rescue the Shadow Pokémon!”
Niantic Announcement
There are four aspects to this new event.
- Find invaded PokéStops. These discolored stops are the location of Team GO Rocket members.
- Battle Rocket. If you encounter a Rocket member, you can battle them.
- Capture Shadow Pokémon. If you beat a Rocket grunt, you have the chance to capture their Pokémon from them. These Pokémon have been engulfed in shadow, which harms them but makes them stronger. You’re freeing them from their owner’s abuse, so it’s ok.
- Purify the Shadow Pokémon. The shadow Pokémon can be restored back to their natural state through a process called purification. They might even come out stranger than ever due to the bonds you form with them.
Team Rocket has been around since the conception of Pokémon itself. It’s great to see them make a return to the capacity. Good luck, trainers!