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As many trainers can attest, trying to catch 'em all can be quite a challenge. Often requiring multiple versions of the same core game, the Pokemon series has become infamous for dual, simultaneous releases with different monsters occupying each cartridge. While that poses a challenge to some, there are still some incredibly powerful Pocket Monsters that can be found and captured in either of the latest versions, Pokemon Omega Ruby or Pokemon Alpha Sapphire.

One of the most powerful creatures that can be obtained across both games is the Legendary Rayquaza, which has gained quite a large fan base since it made its debut on the Game Boy Advance. With remakes arriving on the Nintendo 3DS in the form of the aforementioned Pokemon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire, the Dragon/Flying-type has once again seen a resurgence in popularity – leading to a newly announced distribution event for fans.

To celebrate the latest expansion of the Pokemon Trading Card Game, Ancient Origins, The Pokemon Company is giving game owners a special downloadable treat in the form of a shiny Rayquaza. Fans will have to act fast, however, as the beast will only be available from August 12, 2015 to September 14, 2015, and once it's gone it may never make a return. Fortunately, downloading it is as simple as connecting the 3DS to an internet connection, opening either Ruby or Sapphire, and downloading it via the game's Mystery Gift option.

Ditching the traditional green look, the shiny Rayquaza totes a much sleeker black skin, but there's a lot more to the Legendary than just a suave color scheme. According to The Pokemon Company, the dragon also possesses the ability to Mega Evolve without a Mega Stone, which is a cool trait that the beast has thanks to its incredibly powerful Dragon Ascent attack. Not content with just that, this version of the creature also nullifies the weaknesses of Flying-types through its ability Delta Stream.

While this powerhouse will undoubtedly be banned from participating in an ample number of serious online competitions for the time being, as is the case for any Legendary Pokemon, it's still a fun monster for fans to unleash upon unsuspecting A.I. opponents given its unique appearance and immense power.

Even though wannabe Pokemon Masters will be chomping at the bit to add this Rayquaza to their respective teams, it's odd that the developer behind these games has yet to reveal how players can add the mysterious Hoopa to their squad. More details are sure to arrive as the next major installment of the franchise comes ever closer to its inevitable debut, but this shiny Legendary more than makes up for the current lack of insight into the series' future for the time being.

What do you think of the Shiny Rayquaza promotion? Are you planning to add it to your Pokemon team? Get at us in the comments.