Pokémon GO Doubles Remote Raids: Scopely’s Influence or Long-Awaited Update?

Pokémon GO players rejoice! The popular AR game is boosting the number of daily remote raids available, but is this a move influenced by the recent acquisition of Niantic's gaming division by Scopely, or a long-planned update?

The announcement comes shortly after Niantic's sale to Scopely, sparking speculation. However, in an interview with Eurogamer, senior producer John Funtanilla insists this change stems from internal discussions and data analysis that have been ongoing for years. He emphasizes, "It's entirely the leadership here, internally, and definitely 100 percent our decision to make these changes."

Remote Raids, initially introduced during pandemic lockdowns, allowed players to participate in raids from home. While popular, Niantic had previously implemented limitations to encourage in-person play. The new update doubles the daily remote raid limit from five to ten, a significant shift back towards accessibility.

Furthermore, Shadow Raids and Max Battles, previously exclusive to in-person play, are now accessible via Remote Raid Passes. This expanded access is set to go live on May 13, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. PDT (GMT -7).

Funtanilla mentioned that the decision follows tests conducted earlier this year with the Shadow Ho-Oh Raid. This allowed them to study how remote raiding impacted player behaviour. Changes to remote raid access take a lot of time to actually get into the game. He noted, that the team were, "everything was towards investing in communities and making sure we were expanding that gameplay."

While the decision aims to enhance accessibility, the Pokémon GO team acknowledges the importance of in-person interactions. "The magic of Pokémon Go is still playing in person and meeting up in communities," Funtanilla states. 

The team also emphasized the sheer amount of content, coupled with community feedback, shaped the change. The reason for the increase, and allowing players to take part in Shadow Raids remotely, is down to the sheer amount of content in Pokémon GO now.

As a result of these changes, starting on May 13, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. PDT (GMT −7), the daily Remote Raid limit will increase from five to 10. Remote Raids will count towards the daily limit of Remote Raids. Also, starting on May 19, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. PDT (GMT −7) Trainers will be able to join Max Battles remotely by using a Remote Raid Pass and the usual number of Max Particles.

Since selling its gaming division, along with the hugely successful Pokémon GO, to Scopely — which is owned by Saudi video game investment company from Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (the same one that owns a stake in Nintendo) — Niantic has put all of its eggs into Niantic Spacial. Unfortunately, the company was hit by layoffs just last month.

This update prompts the question: Will the increased accessibility revitalize the game and attract new players, or will it diminish the value of in-person Pokémon GO communities? What are your thoughts on these changes? Leave your comments below!

• Niantic
• Pokémon GO
• Scopely