Armored Mewtwo: A Rarity Unearthed
For fans of the Pokémon universe, especially those who delve into the mobile game Pokémon GO, the question of "How rare is Armored Mewtwo?" is a common one. This powerful, uniquely designed Legendary Pokémon doesn't just appear in the wild like a Pidgey. Its presence is tied to specific, often limited-time, in-game events, making it a coveted and, by definition, quite rare catch for many trainers.
The History of Armored Mewtwo in Pokémon GO
Armored Mewtwo, also known as Mewtwo (with Armor) or simply Armored Mewtwo, first made its debut in Pokémon GO during a special raid event that coincided with the release of the animated film Mewtwo Strikes Back—Evolution. This was a significant event because it introduced a Legendary Pokémon with a distinct visual appearance and a unique set of moves that differed from its regular counterpart.
Key points about its initial release:
- Limited-Time Raids: Armored Mewtwo was exclusively available through Tier 5 Raids. These are the most challenging raid battles, typically requiring multiple trainers to defeat.
- Event-Specific: Its availability was strictly tied to the duration of the promotional event. Once the event concluded, Armored Mewtwo disappeared from raids.
- No Wild Encounters: Unlike many other Pokémon, Armored Mewtwo, in its armored form, has never been found spawning naturally in the wild.
How Availability Has Changed (or Not)
Since its initial release, Armored Mewtwo has made sporadic reappearances in Pokémon GO. However, these returns have also been tied to specific events, often as a featured Pokémon in EX Raids or as a special raid boss during anniversary celebrations or other major in-game happenings.
The rarity of Armored Mewtwo stems from several factors:
- Infrequent Reruns: Niantic, the developer of Pokémon GO, does not make Armored Mewtwo a regular feature. Its appearances are carefully planned and announced well in advance.
- Raid Battle Dependency: Even when it is available, trainers must participate in raids to have a chance to catch it. This requires gathering other players and having raid passes.
- Gacha Element of Raids: Catching any Pokémon after a raid battle is not guaranteed. Trainers can defeat the raid boss and still fail to capture it, adding another layer of difficulty and potential frustration in obtaining Armored Mewtwo.
"For many players, Armored Mewtwo remains a symbol of a specific time in the game and a testament to their dedication and participation in those limited events. Its rarity is a direct result of its strategic deployment by the game developers to create excitement and encourage player engagement during special periods."
So, How Rare is Armored Mewtwo Today?
In short, Armored Mewtwo remains very rare. If it's not currently featured in an active Pokémon GO event, the only way to obtain it is to have already captured one during a previous event. There is no ongoing method to encounter it in the wild or through standard means.
Trainers who started playing Pokémon GO after its initial release or those who missed the specific raid windows will find it particularly difficult to acquire. It’s a Pokémon that signifies a trainer’s history with the game and their ability to engage with its more limited-time, high-stakes events.
The Value of Armored Mewtwo
Beyond its rarity, Armored Mewtwo holds value for its unique stats and moveset. It was often a strong raid attacker and a formidable defender in gym battles during its active periods. Its distinct appearance also makes it a collector's item for many Pokémon enthusiasts.
If you're looking to add Armored Mewtwo to your collection, your best bet is to stay updated on official Pokémon GO announcements. When it is announced as returning to raids, be prepared to gather your friends and tackle those challenging battles!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How can I get Armored Mewtwo?
The primary way to obtain Armored Mewtwo is by participating in and successfully defeating it in special Raid Battles when it is featured as an event boss in Pokémon GO. It is not found in the wild and its availability is entirely dependent on Niantic's event schedules.
Why is Armored Mewtwo so rare?
Armored Mewtwo is rare because its appearances in Pokémon GO are strictly limited to special, often time-bound, in-game events, such as raid events tied to movie releases or anniversary celebrations. It is not a consistently available Pokémon.
Has Armored Mewtwo ever been released outside of raids?
No, Armored Mewtwo has exclusively been available through Raid Battles in Pokémon GO. There have been no instances of it being obtainable through wild encounters, research breakthroughs, or other means.
When will Armored Mewtwo be available again?
Niantic, the developer of Pokémon GO, does not provide advance notice for specific Pokémon returning to raids. Players should keep an eye on official Pokémon GO news channels and social media for announcements regarding future events that might feature Armored Mewtwo.
