Day two of GO Fest 2021 is now underway and Pokemon GO players in some region are already out battling and powering through the day's timed event research and Special Research chains by defeating Legendary Battle Raid Bosses. There are some great rewards up for grabs throughout the day, but there's one potential encounter in particular that has left some players feeling a little confused.
The Pokemon GO Raid day Special Research, Strange Rings, features a pretty interesting storyline and definitely has the Pokemon Hoopa at the center of its mystery and themes. Hoopa is a popular Psychic/Ghost-type Pokemon who was introduced to the franchise in Gen 6, but has not made its debut in the mobile AR game yet. Some players had high hopes that today would be the day that changes, but so far it doesn't seem to be the case.
Although Hoopa has recently been spotted in some promo art for Pokemon GO, it was not catchable during GO Fest Day 1 and nothing that has been revealed so far seems to indicate that it will be available during day two either. This may come as a disappointment to some trainers, but it seems like the debut is likely right around the corner based on how heavily it has been hinted at in recent weeks and during this weekend's activities.
Can You Catch Hoopa?
In short: No, not right now. But probably very soon.
Hoopa is not a reward for completing the Strange Rings Special Research, is not a Battle Raid boss this weekend, and is not spawning in the wild during GO Fest 2021. That said, players should check back frequently for updates, because clearly Niantic is preparing to release the Pokemon in the mobile game and its debut is likely going to happen very soon. A popular theory has been that Hoopa's debut may be linked to the Ultra Unlock Rewards that players are currently progressing towards by participating in the GO Fest 2021 activities.
Hoopa is a pretty popular Pokemon and many players are eagerly anticipating its release to lock in that currently unobtainable Pokedex entry. The Gen 6 Pokedex has been a main point of focus for collectors throughout the first half of 2021 and players are eager to gain the next entry and move one step closer to that ever shifting complete Pokedex goal.
In the coming weeks, we should learn more about what other events will be arriving during the rest of the Season of Discovery. Be sure to check back in the near future for more Pokemon GO strategy guides, news, and updates. Until then, good luck out there, trainers!
Pokemon GO is available on Android and iOS.