Pokemon GO enthusiasts have a thrilling update to look forward to during the upcoming Fashion Week: Taken Over event. Niantic has announced that for the first time, players will be able to use remote raid passes in Shadow Raids. This feature, eagerly awaited since the introduction of Shadow Raids in 2023, will be available from Wednesday, January 15, at 12:00 a.m. to Sunday, January 19, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. local time. During this period, trainers can participate in one-star, three-star, and five-star Shadow Raids either in person or remotely, offering a unique opportunity to catch Pokemon with higher IV stats.

The Fashion Week: Taken Over event is part of a series of updates Niantic has planned for Pokemon GO in 2025. January alone will see the return of Ralts for the second Community Day of the month, adding to the excitement of the game's evolving landscape. The highlight of the event, however, is the introduction of remote raid passes for Shadow Raids, which will be particularly beneficial during the Shadow Ho-Oh Raid day on January 19, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. local time. During this raid day, players will have an increased chance of catching the elusive shiny shadow Ho-Oh and can teach it the charged attack Sacred Fire. Additionally, trainers can use a Charged TM on Shadow Pokemon to forget the move Frustration.

The ability to use remote raid passes in Shadow Raids has been one of the most requested features by the Pokemon GO community since their introduction. While this feature will only be available during the Fashion Week: Taken Over event, it opens up new possibilities for players who prefer or need to engage with the game remotely. After the event concludes, remote raid passes will no longer be usable in Shadow Raids, leaving fans to wonder if this is a one-time opportunity or a precursor to a more permanent change.

Niantic's decision to temporarily introduce remote raid passes for Shadow Raids could be a response to community feedback regarding the challenges of gathering in person for tougher battles like Dynamax and Gigantamax raids. Whether this feature will become a staple of Pokemon GO remains to be seen, but for now, trainers have a limited window to make the most of this exciting addition during Fashion Week: Taken Over.