Complete guide to Ho-Oh Research in Pokemon Go: Dates, tasks, and pro tips
Introduction to Ho-Oh Research
Pokemon Go’s Johto Celebration brings a special opportunity to capture the legendary Ho-Oh with its powerful Earthquake move. This limited-time research event commemorates Pokemon’s 25th anniversary with a nostalgic Gen II theme.
The Johto Celebration introduces exclusive Ho-Oh encounters with the rare Earthquake move, making this event particularly valuable for competitive battlers and collectors alike.
Event dates and timeline
The Ho-Oh Research begins simultaneously with the Johto Challenge on January 26, giving trainers until February 27 at 8:00 PM local time to complete all objectives. This 33-day window includes a crucial 13-day period where bonus rewards are available.
Pro Tip: Mark these dates in your calendar and plan your gameplay sessions accordingly to maximize your chances of encountering both regular and Shiny Ho-Oh.
Complete research tasks breakdown
The event features two research branches with six challenging tasks:
- Catch 15 Dark-type Pokemon – 5x Great Ball (Focus on Murkrow and Houndour spawns)
- Catch 15 Shadow Pokemon – 5x Revive (Team Rocket encounters are your best bet)
- Defeat a Team Go Rocket Leader three times – Larvitar (Max CP 445) (Save Radar components)
Rewards for Completion: 15x Pokeball, 1x Incense, 5,000 XP
- Defeat Team Rocket Leader Arlo – 2x Max Revive (Prepare water or rock-type counters)
- Defeat Team Rocket Leader Cliff – 3x Hyper Potion (Electric types recommended)
- Defeat Team Rocket Leader Sierra – 2x Max Potion (Bug or ghost types work well)
Advanced strategies and rewards
The ultimate reward is a Ho-Oh with Earthquake (Max CP 1,655), significantly enhancing its battle capabilities. For dedicated trainers who complete all tasks within 13 days, there’s a chance to encounter the coveted Shiny variant.
Common Pitfall: Underestimating the Rocket Leader challenge. Stock up on Radar components by battling more Grunts, and consider teaming up with friends for mutual support during leader battles.
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