What is an Elite Raid in Pokémon GO?

Wondering what that mysterious Red Egg is above a local Pokémon GO Gym? That's an Elite Raid, a rare type of Raid in Pokémon GO that spawns special and powerful Pokémon.

We're seeing Elite Raids return for Mega Rayquaza, on Saturday June 29. Raids will activate at 12, 1, 5 and 6pm local time.

Here is everything you need to know about Elite Raids in Pokémon GO and how they work.

Elite Raids work like other Legendary Raids, with three key differences.

Firstly, Elite Raids can only appear on certain Gyms in Pokémon GO. These Gymswere marked "EX Gym" and used to host 'EX Raids', that were an old mechanic in the game. In March, they were renamed to Elite Raid Gyms.

Secondly, Elite Raid Eggs spawn 24hrs in advance. This is to allow Trainers to plan their route and strategy for the Raids in advance. With limited Raids around, and a highly desirable Pokémon to capture, you will want to be as efficient as possible during this time.

However, for this weekends Mega Rayquaza Raids, Niantic have announced Eggs will not be spawning 24hrs in advance. They will instead spawn at 6am local time.

Finally Elite Raids are local only. It is not possible take on these Raids using Remote Raid Passes. This is one of the most controversial aspects of these Raids. If you live rurally or don't have a group to play with, it can be hard to get enough Trainers to take down whatever Raid boss is spawning.

Heading into City Centres and highly populated areas is a good way to make sure other players are around when the Raid starts. These Raids have a higher CP than Standard Five-star raids, so be prepared with your best Pokémon.

Elite Raids always spawn highly desirable and rare Legendary Pokémon. The next Elite Raids will spawn Mega Rayquaza.

Here are the previous Elite Raid bosses:

Sometimes, Elite Raids spawn special Pokémon after completing them. This happened for Hoopa Unbound Raids, and Incarnate Forme Enamorus Raids. It will not be happening for Mega Rayquaza.

Make sure to download the Campfire App to coordinate with local Trainers and take on Elite Raids.

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