Niantic Teases New Paradox Pokémon and Gigantamax Forms for Pokémon GO’s 9th Anniversary

Pokémon GO, the widely successful mobile title developed by Niantic, is marking its ninth anniversary with fresh commemorative artwork that hints at the next additions to its ever-expanding roster.

Since its initial global release on July 6, 2016, on iOS and Android platforms, Pokémon GO has continued to evolve, bringing new generations of Pokémon and gameplay innovations to millions of trainers worldwide. The new 9th anniversary artwork celebrates nearly a decade of catching, battling, and exploring for Pokémon GO players.

Notably, eagle-eyed fans have spotted several highlights within the image that suggest exciting content is on the way.

Most prominent among these are Great Tusk and Iron Treads—two Paradox Pokémon introduced in the Nintendo Switch titles Pokémon Scarlet and Violet.

These prehistoric and futuristic forms, originally native to the Paldea region, represent a major milestone in Pokémon GO’s ongoing integration of newer generations and mechanics from the core Pokémon franchise. Additionally, the anniversary artwork features a depiction of Gigantamax Butterfree.

Gigantamax forms, first introduced in Pokémon Sword and Shield for the Nintendo Switch, provide Pokémon with unique visual styles and powerful moves.

The inclusion of Gigantamax Butterfree hints that Niantic may soon introduce more Gigantamax encounters to Pokémon GO, broadening the game's connection to the mainline Nintendo Switch games and expanding the possibilities for players. Another notable Pokémon in the illustration is Aegislash, a popular Steel- and Ghost-type that will officially join Pokémon GO later this month.

Niantic confirmed Aegislash’s imminent release, giving trainers another reason to celebrate alongside the anniversary festivities.

"We’re thrilled to commemorate nine years of Pokémon GO," Niantic stated in a recent update, highlighting the sense of community and adventure that has defined the game since launch. Pokémon GO's impact on the gaming industry has been significant, boasting over a billion downloads and consistently ranking among the top-grossing mobile games on both the iOS App Store and Google Play.

Regular updates, community events, and successful collaborations with the Nintendo Switch core series, such as Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, have kept the player base engaged and growing. As Niantic continues to roll out new Pokémon and gameplay features, the 9th anniversary celebrations further reinforce Pokémon GO’s status as an innovative leader in the world of location-based gaming.

Players can look forward to catching new Paradox Pokémon and encountering long-awaited favorites like Aegislash in the coming weeks, as the adventure continues on iOS, Android, and through ongoing Nintendo collaborations.

Pokémon Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Niantic Pokémon GO Pokémon Scarlet Gigantamax Scarlet and Violet Violet Paradox Pokémon Great Tusk Iron Treads Gigantamax Butterfree Aegislash Nintendo