The Team Pokemon GO Rocket has launched another takeover event! The Delightful Days: Taken Over event runs from Monday, August 11, at 12:00 a.m. to Sunday, August 17, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. local time, bringing exciting challenges and legendary Shadow Pokemon encounters. Here’s everything you need to dominate Giovanni and claim your rewards.
Table of Contents
What is Pokemon GO Delightful Days: Taken Over?
This special event marks Giovanni’s return with a powerful Shadow Giratina as his main Pokemon. Trainers can claim this Special Research until the end of Pokémon GO: Delightful Days on September 2, 2025, at 9:59 a.m. local time. The event also introduces Shadow Kyogre making its debut in Shadow Raids.
Special Research Tasks & Rewards Overview
| Stage | Tasks | Key Rewards |
|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 | Defeat Team GO Rocket Grunts | Stardust, Poke Balls |
| Stage 2 | Battle Team Leaders | Rare Candy, TMs |
| Stage 3 | Defeat GO Rocket Leaders | Super Rocket Radar |
| Final Stage | Battle Giovanni | Shadow Giratina Encounter |
Complete task breakdown available on our Pokemon GO Events Guide
How to Beat Giovanni – August 2025 Lineup
Giovanni’s Current Team:
- First Pokemon: Persian (Normal-type)
- Second Pokemon: Nidoking, Rhyperior, or Garchomp
- Third Pokemon: Shadow Giratina (Ghost/Dragon-type)
Best Counters Strategy:
- Against Persian: Fighting-types like Machamp or Lucario
- Against Second Slot: Water/Ice types for Ground coverage
- Against Shadow Giratina: Dark-types (Tyranitar, Darkrai) or Ghost-types (Gengar)
For detailed counter guides, check our Giovanni Battle Strategies
Event Highlights & Bonuses
Shadow Kyogre Debut
This marks the first time Shadow Kyogre appears in Pokemon GO! Shadow Kyogre will return to Pokémon GO by making its debut in Shadow Raids. This powerful Water-type legendary will be available in special Shadow Raids throughout the event.
Key Event Features:
- Frustration TM Removal: Use Charged TMs to remove Frustration from Shadow Pokemon
- Increased Rocket Encounters: More frequent Team GO Rocket appearances
- Special Research Storyline: Engaging narrative leading to Giovanni battle
- Exclusive Rewards: Rare items and Shadow legendary encounters
Tips for Success
- Stock Up on Resources: Gather Poke Balls, healing items, and TMs before starting
- Team Preparation: Build diverse counters for Giovanni’s rotating lineup
- Shadow Pokemon Strategy: Keep strong Shadow Pokemon for extra damage
- Research Timing: You’ve got until September 2nd to claim this research
Why This Event Matters
The Delightful Days: Taken Over event represents a significant milestone for Pokemon GO trainers. Shadow Giratina’s debut as Giovanni’s signature Pokemon, combined with Shadow Kyogre’s introduction, creates unprecedented opportunities for competitive players.
Stay updated with our latest Pokemon GO News for more event coverage and strategies.
For official event details and updates, visit the Pokemon GO official website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When does the Delightful Days: Taken Over event end?
A: The event runs until Sunday, August 17, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. local time, but you can claim the Special Research until September 2, 2025.
Q: Can I get Shadow Giratina if I miss Giovanni during the event?
A: Yes! Once you obtain the Super Rocket Radar from the Special Research, you can encounter Giovanni and Shadow Giratina even after the event ends, as long as you claimed the research during the event period.
