Pokémon GO’s next seasonal event has begun. Although Spring just started, the Water Festival has more of a Summer vibe. It’s a simple event: you’ll find more water-type Pokémon. Specifically the update names Magikarp, Squirtle, Totodile, and their respective evolutions. Squirtle and Totodile are both Starter Pokémon from Gen 1 and 2, making them relatively rare, and their evolutions even more so. Magikarp’s evolution is the mighty Gyarados, which is normally very difficult to find and evolve.
In areas where water-type Pokémon are normally found (hint: near bodies of water) you’ll also find more Gen 2 Pokémon, including the rare Lapras. The Water Festival update also adds a new avatar item, the Magikarp Hat.
The Water Festival comes on the heels of a minor update. Last November, Pokémon GO added daily bonuses and 7-day streaks for PokéStops and capturing Pokémon every day. Niantic has increased the rewards for getting a full 7-day streak of collecting a PokéStop at least once a day. Now in addition to the bonus XP and Stardust, you’re rewarded with a random evolution item.
In related news, some Pokémon GO players are posting screenshots and videos of Shiny Pokémon. Shiny Pokémon were introduced in the second generation of Pokémon games. They are ultra-rare and come in an alternate color scheme. They are the Mt. Everest for Pokémon collectors. Neither Niantic nor The Pokémon Company have confirmed or announced the existence of shiny Pokémon in Pokémon GO.
So far only Shiny Magikarp and its evolution Shiny Gyarados have been found. The catch is that the Shiny Pokémon don’t show up as Shiny in the wild. Gotta Check ‘Em All!
The Pokémon GO Water Festival ends on March 29 at 1p Pacific/4p Eastern.
