Like most games out there, Pokemon GO isn't a stranger to bugs and glitches that players document online. Most of these errors are quickly patched out after their discovery, but a recent glitch found by a Reddit user gives Swablu a brand new look.
On September 19, 2021, Reddit user DickieDarkside posted their finding on the unofficial Pokemon GO Subreddit. During what was meant to be a normal encounter with a Swablu, the Pokemon's texture appeared to be bugged with no apparent cause behind the glitch.
DickieDarkside described the glitched Swablu as "better than any Alolan" and confirmed to have caught the dual Normal and Flying-type Pokemon. Unfortunately, the Swablu didn't keep its glitched texture after being caught.
What makes this texture glitch so interesting is that the Swablu doesn't simply have just a different color palette. The new pattern around the Pokemon's eyes and belly and special patterns on its wings make the look seem almost purposefully designed. It is possible that the texture could be one belonging to another Pokemon, but the real cause of the glitch is unknown. The likely answer is that it was just a random thing that can't be replicated again.
Many of those who've seen the glitch compared this Swablu to Pokemon GO's upcoming Fashion Week event, starting on September 21st and running from September 28th. It could be possible that this glitched Swablu is related to the event as well as the form changes. Considering that Swablu isn't confirmed to be involved and that DickieDarkside's Swablu returned to normal after being caught, it is likely unrelated and just a coincidence.
Shiny Swablu is currently available in Pokemon GO and was released back in May 2021's Community Day event. Unlike this glitched Swablu that resembles a pastel juggalo, shiny Swablu appear in a light gold color that carries over when they evolve into Altaria. The only event that sees Swablu among the increased spawn rates in the known future is the local Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Safari Zone event. Even so, this Pokemon GO event is a local event only, running in Philadelphia's Fairmount Park from October 29th, 2021 to October 31st, 2021.
Any glitches or bugs found in Pokemon GO are highly recommended to be reported to Niantic, as some graphical bugs have the potential to be linked to something bigger. It is unknown if this Swablu is in fact part of something else, but its sighting is still a cool thing for any player to see.
Pokemon GO is available on Android and iOS.
Source: Reddit