Since their introduction in February 2020, Pokémon GO’s Spotlight Hour and Mystery Bonus Hour events have become a staple for trainers around the world. These events offer a unique opportunity to catch a specific Pokémon more frequently and enjoy special bonuses, all within a one-hour window. In this guide, we delve into the mechanics of these events, provide tips for preparation, and offer a comprehensive list of past featured Pokémon and bonuses.

Understanding the Spotlight Hour and Mystery Bonus Hour

What You Need to Know

Each week, players can look forward to Pokémon GO Spotlight Hour, occurring every Tuesday evening from 6 pm to 7 pm local time. Originally hosted on separate days, Spotlight Hour and Mystery Bonus Hour were combined in April 2020, streamlining the experience for trainers. Niantic, the game developer, now announces the featured Pokémon and bonus, allowing players to plan ahead.

When Does the Event Take Place?

The Spotlight Hour and Mystery Bonus Hour events are synchronized to local timezones, so they always occur from 6pm to 7pm regardless of where you are in the world. This provides a convenient way for players globally to participate without confusion.

Past Schedule Adjustments

Initially, Spotlight Hours were held on Tuesdays, while Mystery Bonus Hours were hosted on Thursdays. After April 2020, both events were merged. Niantic also experimented with separate Bonus Hours in March 2021, which involved different game aspects but were quickly discontinued.

What To Expect?

During the hour, the featured Pokémon will spawn in abundance. Players have the opportunity to catch this Pokémon, accumulate its candy for evolutions, and potentially encounter its Shiny version. Additionally, a Mystery Bonus, which could be anything from double XP to enhanced Stardust, is activated.

Preparation Tips for Trainers

To maximize the benefits of Spotlight Hour and Mystery Bonus Hour, preparation is key. Here are some essential tips to get you ready:

Stockpiling Items

Ensure you have enough Poké Balls, Great Balls, and Ultra Balls to catch the featured Pokémon. You will also want to have Pinap Berries ready to double the candy you'll earn for each catch. Potions and Revives are helpful if you encounter tricky Pokémon that require battling.

Clear Your Storage

Before the event, clear out your Pokémon storage to ensure you have enough space for the potential influx of captures. This will prevent any delays in managing your Pokémon during the one-hour window.

A Look Back: Previous Spotlight Hours and Bonuses

Niantic regularly updates the list of featured Pokémon and Mystery Bonuses. Here are some from recent weeks:

Recent Featured Pokémon

Binnacle, a Rock/Water-type Pokémon, was highlighted on Tuesday, 16th July. Future Pokémon will be announced in advance, giving players time to prepare.

Recent Mystery Bonuses

Previous Mystery Bonuses included rewards like double XP for catching Pokémon, double Stardust, and more. These bonuses enhance the value of your catches and contribute significantly to player progression.

Other Guides and Resources

Beyond the Spotlight Hour, Pokémon GO offers numerous events, mechanics, and strategies for trainers to explore. Here is a brief overview of additional guides available:

Event Guides

Comprehensive walkthroughs include topics like How To Catch Pokémon, Redeem Promo Codes, Check IVs, Trade Pokémon, Use Maps and Trackers, and Complete Field Research. These guides help new and veteran players alike to navigate the game's various systems.

Weekly and Monthly Events

Regularly scheduled events such as Community Days and special research challenges keep the gameplay experience fresh and engaging.

Specific Pokémon Guides

Guides that detail how to catch and evolve specific Pokémon, like Sylveon and Glaceon or utilize unique items like Glacial Lures are particularly helpful for completing Pokédex entries and maximizing Pokémon potential.

Advanced Tactics

For those seeking deeper strategies, guides on the best attackers and defenders, how to effectively use TMs, and capturing Shiny Pokémon are available.

Final Thoughts

While the Pokémon GO Spotlight Hour and Mystery Bonus Hour events offer great opportunities, they are not without their criticisms. Scheduling these events at 6pm can be inconvenient for those commuting or otherwise occupied. Additionally, the "mystery" aspect of the bonus can be frustrating for players who don't have time to check social media for updates.

That said, Pokémon GO remains an enjoyable game for many. With frequent updates and vast resources available for improving your gameplay experience, there is always something new to explore. Regardless of your experience level as a trainer, these events provide an enjoyable opportunity to connect with the Pokémon GO community.

For up-to-date information, keep an eye on announcements and stay prepared to make the most of these weekly events. Happy catching!