Precious Pals Taken Over 2026 Recap: Shadow Thundurus, Shadow Raikou Raid Day and Shadow Kalos Starters
By Matt · Published · Updated Precious Pals Taken Over ran from 23 to 25 January 2026. Giovanni switched to Shadow Thundurus, Raikou was the shiny boosted Shadow Raid Day Pokémon on 24 January from 2pm to 5pm, Shadow Chespin, Fennekin and Froakie debuted (all shiny eligible), and a Charged TM could remove Frustration.
Giovanni changed his Pokémon, three new Shadow Pokémon arrived, and there was a Shadow Raid Day.
When it ran
23 to 25 January 2026.
What was featured
- Giovanni switched to Shadow Thundurus once the event started. See my Giovanni guide for who he has now.
- Shadow Raikou Raid Day on 24 January, 2pm to 5pm local time, and Raikou was shiny boosted.
- Shadow Chespin, Fennekin and Froakie debuted, and all could be shiny.
- Team GO Rocket Leaders had new line-ups.
- A Charged TM could remove Frustration from Shadow Pokémon. See my Frustration guide.
Matt's takeI love Taken Over events, but the part I was most excited for was shiny Greninja. That's going to look so good.
FAQ
When was Precious Pals Taken Over?
From 23 to 25 January 2026.
Which Pokémon did Giovanni have?
Shadow Thundurus.
When was the Shadow Raikou Raid Day?
24 January 2026, from 2pm to 5pm local time, and Raikou was shiny boosted.
Which new Shadow Pokémon debuted?
Shadow Chespin, Shadow Fennekin and Shadow Froakie, and all could be shiny.
Get Matt's full take
The extended write-up on Patreon has Matt’s commentary, what to prioritise and Matt’s own plan.