Niantic's Pokemon GO is set to host its fifth Raid Day of 2025 on April 13, showcasing three formidable Fighting-type Pokemon: Mega Heracross, Hariyama, and Scraggy. This follows previous successful events featuring Mega Gallade, Ho-Oh, and other fan favorites.

Heracross, the Gen 2 Hercules beetle-inspired Pokemon, makes its triumphant return with Mega Evolution capabilities. Joining it are Hariyama, the sumo wrestler-inspired Gen 3 powerhouse, and Scraggy, the charismatic Gen 5 lizard that evolves into Scrafty. This trio promises an action-packed event for trainers worldwide.

Event Highlights

Dubbed the "Sparring Partners Raid Day," this limited-time event will run from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM local time on Sunday, April 13. Key features include:

• New Move Availability: All featured Pokemon can learn the Charged Attack "Upper Hand" (50 power in raids/gyms, 70 in trainer battles with defense-lowering potential)
• Shiny Boost: Increased chances to encounter shiny variants
• Bonus Passes: Up to five additional free Raid Passes from Gym spins
• Remote Raid Limit Increase: Daily cap raised to 20 passes during event period

Premium Experience

For trainers seeking enhanced rewards, a $4.99 event ticket offers:

• Eight additional Raid Passes (14 total daily)
• Higher Rare Candy XL drop rates
• 50% more XP from raids
• Double Stardust from raid victories

Free Timed Research will also be available, rewarding participants with up to 10,000 Stardust and other valuable items.

Strategic Considerations

This event presents multiple opportunities for trainers:

1. Mega Energy Farming: Stock up on Heracross Mega Energy for future battles
2. PvP Preparation: Acquire Pokemon with the new Upper Hand move for competitive play
3. Shiny Hunting: Take advantage of boosted shiny rates for these rare variants
4. Resource Accumulation: Maximize Stardust and XP gains through strategic raiding

April Event Calendar

The Sparring Partners Raid Day is part of a packed April schedule:

• April 9: Spring to Spring event introduces Eldegoss and Gossifleur
• April 16: Pokemon Horizons celebration debuts Tinkaton
• April 19: Max Battle Day features Gigantamax Snorlax

This strategic scheduling allows trainers to plan their resource allocation and participation across multiple events.

Preparation Tips

To maximize your Raid Day experience:

• Stock up on healing items and berries in advance
• Coordinate with local raid groups or online communities
• Plan your route to hit multiple gyms efficiently
• Consider battery packs for extended play sessions
• Balance free and premium pass usage based on your goals

With its combination of rare Pokemon, valuable bonuses, and strategic depth, the Sparring Partners Raid Day represents one of Pokemon GO's most compelling events of early 2025. Whether you're a casual collector or competitive battler, April 13 offers something for every type of trainer.