A Raid Egg in Pokémon GO is a distinct visual element that appears atop a Gym to announce that an impending Raid Battle is about to commence. Instead of the usual defending Pokémon, an egg signifies the Gym's readiness for a challenge from a powerful Raid Boss.
Understanding Raid Eggs
This egg serves as a crucial countdown to the actual Raid Battle, providing trainers with a window of opportunity to prepare.
- Indicator: When a Gym is topped with an egg, it is a clear visual signal to all nearby trainers that a Raid Battle is on the horizon. The type of egg (e.g., pink, yellow, blue, black) often hints at the difficulty of the upcoming raid.
- Timer: A prominent timer displayed above the egg reveals precisely how long players have until the Raid Boss hatches and the battle begins. This countdown allows trainers to strategize, ready their battle parties, and coordinate with other players who might be interested in joining the raid.
Raid Battle Schedules and Variations
Understanding when Raid Eggs typically appear helps trainers plan their gameplay and maximize their chances of participating in desired raids.
- Standard Hours: Generally, Raid Battles in Pokémon GO occur between 5:00 a.m. and 7:45 p.m. local time. This timeframe dictates when Raid Eggs can appear and subsequently hatch into a Raid Boss.
- Event-Based Changes: It's important for players to note that these timings are not rigid. During special in-game events, seasons, or specific global challenges, the game's developers may alter the appearance and duration of Raid Eggs and their associated battles. This can include extended raid hours, shorter egg timers to encourage quicker participation, or specific raid boss rotations tied to the event. For more details on active events, players can often check official game announcements or reputable community sites like Pokémon GO Live.
By recognizing a Raid Egg and its associated timer, players can effectively prepare for challenging encounters and obtain valuable rewards, including rare Pokémon and items.
