Super Mega Raids are a new way to battle Mega Evolutions in Pokémon Go and were introduced as part of Go Tour Kalos in February 2026. (Though these raids are here to stay.)
In Super Mega Raids, you’ll find yourself battling incredibly powerful Mega Evolved Pokémon and, for this reason, they work a little differently compared to the standard Mega Raid we all know in Pokémon Go. It’s worth knowing how Link Charges work if you want to make the most of Super Mega Raids.
So read on to learn exactly what Super Mega Raids are in Pokémon Go, including how to join a Super Mega Raid and everything you need to know about the Super Mega Raid shields.
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What are Super Mega Raids in Pokémon Go?
Super Mega Raids are a new type of raid battle introduced into Pokémon Go as part of Go Tour Kalos. In these raids, you’ll be able to battle powerful Mega Evolutions like Mega Malamar and Mega Victreebel. We might even see some legendary Mega Evolutions eventually as well…
You can’t join a Super Mega Raid without a Mega Evolution. | Image credit: Niantic
It’s highly recommended that you partake in these raids alongside at least seven other players who all have at least one Mega Evolved Pokémon in their parties. (Trust me, you’re going to need it.) In fact, you will not be able to press the ‘Ready’ button in a lobby without having a Mega Evolution in your party.
Depending on the Pokémon you’re facing though, you may find that a higher number of players is required. These battles are designed to be tough, but, if you’re successful, you’ll find them highly rewarding as you’ll receive more Mega Energy compared to a normal Mega Raid.
This isn’t the only difference between Super Mega Raids and normal Mega Raids though! There’s one particular mechanic you need to be prepared for…
The Lunar New Year event has returned for 2026! Super Mega Raids and Link Charges have brought a new way to battle Mega Evolutions! There’s also the ‘Very Fairy Timed Research‘ quest. Why not try out the ‘What’s Your Favourite?‘ photo feature? Make sure you’re keeping up with the Precious Paths quest.
There’s a lot to do in Pokémon Go outside of the current event! From the Go Battle League, Remote Trading, PokéStop Showcase, Routes and Max Battles. Don’t forget to catch rare Pokémon while you’re at it.
Shields in Super Mega Raids explained
During a Super Mega Raid, the Mega Evolved Pokemon you’re fighting will eventually become enraged. (As would you if you were just minding your own business and then a group of strangers turned up and started attacking you with their Pokémon.)
An example of Super Mega Raid shields. | Image credit: Niantic
When a Super Mega Raid boss becomes enraged, it will put up shields that will reduce the amount of damage it takes from normal attacks. Each player can only take down one shield, so you’ll need to work together to remove them all. Shields can be broken by using Charged Attacks.
Thankfully, when the shields do appear, your Mega Evolved Pokémon will be automatically sent out onto the battlefield if it’s not already in play. Its Charged Attack will be available and the next attack will then be powered up significantly, allowing you to smash through that shield completely. Once enough shields have been broken, the raid boss will return to normal and your attacks will start dealing normal damage again – these both of these factors being in play until the end of the fight.
These shields mean you might want to change your tactics for Super Mega Raids. Rather than sending out your Mega Evolution straight away, it may be better to hold it back until the shields appear. That way you’re guaranteed to have a Mega Evolution on hand to break a shield and assist your team mates!
It’s important to note, however, that there are three expectations for the shield breaking rule. Primal Kyogre, Primal Groudon and a Ditto transformed into a Mega Evolution can not break a shield, so it’s best to avoid using them to do so.
How to join Super Mega Raids in Pokémon Go
How you join Super Mega Raids differs slightly depending on whether you’re doing so remotely or in-person. Either way though, you’ll have the choice to use a new item called Link Charges to join. Check out our dedicated Link Charges guide to learn more about this item, including how to get it. For now, let’s focus on how Link Charges help you join a Super Mega Raid.
If you’re joining a Super Mega Raid in-person, you’ll have the choice between using a Premium Battle Pass or a certain amount of Link Charges. You’ll be able to select which one you use before entering the lobby. It’s important to note that, when attending a raid in-person, you will get more value for your Link Charges compared to a Premium Battle Pass.
If you’re joining a Super Mega Raid remotely, you’ll need both a Remote Raid Pass and a certain amount of Link Charges. Depending on what items you have to hand, this means you may want to focus on attending Super Mega Raids in-person because of this. (Sorry rural players.)
Image credit: Niantic
Hope you have fun battling in Super Mega Raids! Check out our overall Mega Evolution guide for Pokémon Go to learn more about these powerful Pokémon!