What is an EX Raid Pass?

Short Answer: EX Raid Passes were special invitations for exclusive legendary raids, but the system has been discontinued.

EX Raid Passes were special invitation-only passes for exclusive legendary Pokemon raids, but this system has been discontinued by Niantic since late 2020.

How EX Raids Used to Work:

  • Invitation required to participate
  • Earned by raiding at eligible gyms
  • Exclusive legendary Pokemon (primarily Mewtwo)
  • Scheduled in advance for specific times and dates
  • Limited participants per raid (usually 20-40 trainers)
  • One week notice given to invited trainers

EX Raid Requirements (Historical):

  • Raid at EX-eligible gyms (parks, sponsored locations like Starbucks)
  • Recent raid activity at those specific gyms
  • Random selection from pool of eligible trainers
  • One pass per trainer per distribution wave
  • Badge level requirements at the gym location

Why They Were Discontinued:

  • COVID-19 pandemic made scheduled group events problematic
  • Player feedback about exclusivity and scheduling conflicts
  • Technical difficulties with invitation system
  • Shift to more accessible raid formats

Current Status:

  • System permanently discontinued in 2020
  • Exclusive Pokemon now available through other methods
  • Regular legendary raids replaced most exclusives
  • No longer obtainable or functional

Modern Alternatives:

  • Elite Raids (special scheduled community raids)
  • Legendary raid hours (weekly events)
  • Special research tasks for mythical Pokemon
  • Go Fest and premium events
  • Shadow raids for exclusive forms

Tip: While EX Raids are gone forever, Niantic continues to create exciting ways to encounter rare and legendary Pokemon through modern raid systems!

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