Pokémon GO has officially prepared for the Precious Pals event. It is one of the early offerings of the popular AR mobile game, following the High Zaptitude event. As always, the occasion includes Pokémon debuts, bonuses, and fun activities. This time around, developer Niantic is also adding limited-time evolution requirements.
Precious Pals Event Schedule
The new January event of Pokémon GO happens on January 20 (Tuesday) at 10:00 a.m. to January 25 (Sunday) at 8:00 p.m. local time. Specifically, it means that players have five days to take advantage of challenges and rewards.
Debuts, Wild Encounters, and Eggs
As per Niantic’s announcement, the biggest reveal is the first-ever appearance of Shiny Fidough. Introduced in Generation IX, this character is a tiny canine that has a big head and stubby legs. Lucky trainers can see the Fairy-type Pokémon during the event.
Fans are also in for many event-themed Pokémon wild encounters. As of now, the confirmed ones are Espurr, Fidough, Goldeen, Wimpod, and Zorua. In the same way, lucky players may even find a shiny version of the characters.
During Precious Pals, Pokémon GO trainers can expect to hatch five Pokémon from 2 km Eggs.
Here is a closer look at who they can hatch:
- Fidough (Fairy-type Pokémon)
- Goldeen (Water-type Pokémon)
- Happiny (Normal-type baby Pokémon)
- Riolu (Fighting-type baby Pokémon)
- Togepi (Fairy-type baby Pokémon)
In the same way, shiny ones are available to hatch for lucky trainers.
Precious Pals Event Bonuses
Aside from first-time appearances, the celebration also brings several bonuses for all players.
- More Candy XL after Buddy Pokémon walking activities
- Ability to get more hearts with a Buddy Pokémon
- Higher chance of finding Shiny Goldeen
- Higher chance of hatching Shiny Fidough and Shiny Goldeen
At the same time, Niantic is letting fans enjoy limited-time evolution requirements. However, these only last until January 25 at 8:00 p.m. local time.
- Turn Eevee into Sylveon after getting 20 hearts
- Evolve Pancham into Pangoro after acquiring 10 Dark-type Pokémon
- Transform Pawmo into Pawmot after exploring 5 km
Note: The special requirements require the base form Pokémon as a buddy.
Standard Event Activities
Like most events of the AR title, this one has field research tasks, collection challenges, and a paid time research. Of course, completion brings rewards, making the experience a whole lot better.
Looking Ahead
These offerings mark just the beginning of a rich Pokémon GO gaming experience in 2026. Trainers can also look forward to more events and celebrations from Niantic in the coming months. As of now, it kicked off the Australian Open at Melbourne Park, which will last until February 1. The in-person gameplay covers wild encounters, bonuses, and collection challenges.
