Pokémon GO has released the graphic for its 9th anniversary. It showcases some elements that we recognize from Pokémon GO – but also a few new things. But: What does it mean?
What kind of graphic is this? In Pokémon GO, it has become a tradition to release a corresponding graphic each year on its anniversary. We often see many Pokémon, representations of certain new features, and often various trainer characters. This year’s graphic has now been released; you can see it here in the title image.
Krokel, Felori, and Kwaks are visible. The previously announced Durengard appears and Zacian and Zamazenta stand in the middle of the image. Zygarde crawls around the edge of the image and Gierspenst is also visible. But what is new?
Which new Pokémon are in the image? Those looking for new Pokémon will also find them. We see:
- Mega-Metagross on the left side
- Riesenzahn and Eisenrad – these are two Paradox Pokémon, known from Scarlet & Violet
- Gigantamax Butterfree is visible
And a trainer in the image also activates a small emblem that shows a thumbs up. That’s something we haven’t seen in the game so far. What it indicates is still unclear.
Is this coming to the game? Well, that’s the question. In the past, an appearance in the anniversary graphic hasn’t always meant that corresponding content would (soon) make it to the game.
Anniversary Graphics in Pokémon GO and Their Content – Why You Shouldn’t Get Your Hopes Up Too Soon?
Those who have been paying attention to the anniversary graphics over the past years will notice that many of the things shown back then are now in the game. Mega Pokémon have been shown multiple times, features like NPC Mateo were depicted in these graphics before their release, and numerous Pokémon from the graphics have already been released. The Dynamax feature was also hinted at before it was in the game.
But: Other things that were shown in these graphics are still missing today. A classic example is Mega Mewtwo, which trainers are still waiting for. Mimigma was also shown and is still not in the game.
What does this mean for the displayed content? It means we can only speculate at this point. At least for most things.
- Durengard is already announced, so the release is clear
- Zygarde is already in the game. But maybe there will be an event that makes the notoriously complicated Pokémon a bit more accessible?
- Paradox Pokémon do not yet exist in Pokémon GO. After Dynamax, that would be a fitting new feature.
- And Pokémon like Gigantamax Butterfree and Mega-Metagross can be summarized as: Why not soon? There seems to be no reason why they shouldn’t appear soon.
But: Based on past experiences, “waiting” is probably the best option here. We are definitely excited to see which elements from the graphic will make it to the game soon. We will keep you updated as always. And if you want to take a short look at what’s happening in the game: Here are all events in July 2025 in Pokémon GO.
