Pokemon GO Adds Gen 9 Pokemon to Mega Squads Event

Pokemon GO will introduce two Generation 9 Pokemon during its Mega Squads event, which runs from September 8 through September 14. The event marks the official debut of Maschiff and its evolution Mabosstiff in the mobile game, alongside new shiny variants and enhanced Mega Evolution capabilities for existing monsters.

Players will have multiple pathways to obtain Maschiff during the event window. The creature can be acquired by progressing through the limited GO Pass, completing event-themed Field Research tasks, or hatching 5 km Eggs between September 11 and September 14. Once caught, Maschiff can evolve into Mabosstiff using 50 Candy. The event also marks the Pokemon GO debut of Shiny Flamigo. Additionally, Shiny Pidgey will appear more frequently from September 8 to 11, while Shiny Carvanha will spawn at increased rates from September 11 to 14.

The Mega Squads event focuses heavily on Mega Evolution mechanics, introducing a new tier called Super Max Level for select Mega Pokemon. Starting with this event, Mega Beedrill and Mega Houndoom will gain access to Super Max Level status, allowing them to learn additional Charged Attacks while Mega Evolved. Mega Beedrill will be able to use Fell Stinger+, while Mega Houndoom gains access to Dark Pulse+. These upgrades represent a significant power boost for players looking to strengthen their raid teams.

To support players in leveling their Mega Pokemon, the event will feature dedicated Mega Raids. Mega Beedrill raids will run from September 8 to 15, while Mega Houndoom raids will be available from September 11 to 15. Spotlight Hours will also highlight the base forms, with Weedle appearing on September 10 and Houndour on September 13, each from 6 PM to 7 PM local time.

Mega Houndoom has established itself as one of the most effective Mega Evolutions for raid encounters in Pokemon GO, making this event an ideal opportunity for trainers to enhance their collections. The introduction of Super Max Level suggests that Niantic plans to expand this feature to additional Mega Pokemon in the future, potentially affecting powerhouses like Mega Tyranitar and Mega Gengar.

The Mega Squads event arrives as part of the ongoing Twilight Trails season, which has already confirmed the debuts of Mega Chandelure and Mega Staraptor. Before the Mega Squads event begins, Pokemon GO will host GO Fest: Mega Finale on September 5 and 6, featuring the return of Armored Mewtwo after a six-year absence from the game.