Pokémon Go celebrates 10 years with a massive Mewtwo raid in Times Square

On July 10, 2026, Pokémon Go celebrated its 10th anniversary with a spectacular community event in Times Square, where nearly 2,000 players gathered for a special Mewtwo raid. This milestone showcased how the game has evolved since its launch in 2016, fulfilling the promise of bringing players together in real-world experiences.

Evolution of Pokémon Go's Community Events

When Pokémon Go first launched, it was difficult to envision the level of community engagement that would develop. The game encouraged players to explore their surroundings, but the first trailer hinted at larger gatherings for battling powerful Pokémon. At the anniversary event, players witnessed a dramatic display as Mewtwo Mega Evolved, illuminating Times Square.

Michael Steranka, VP of product at Scopely, stated, “When we first dreamt what Pokémon GO might become a decade ago, hosting more than a thousand people in a single, local raid battle was just a pipe dream.” This event marked a significant leap from the chaotic launch event in Chicago in 2017.

Challenges and Growth Since Launch

The inaugural Pokémon Go Fest in Chicago was plagued with network issues, leading to a disappointing experience for many players. Steranka, who joined the team after that event, emphasized the importance of collaboration in overcoming challenges. “Instead of trying to find someone to blame, everybody came together,” he said.

Since then, Pokémon Go has expanded its community-focused events, drawing millions of players together. Over 800 million people have downloaded the game, generating over $1 billion in revenue in 2025 alone. The game’s ability to adapt and foster community has been crucial to its ongoing success.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Pokémon Go

Scopely's games president, Ed Wu, highlighted the game's potential for future growth. “What started as an invitation to explore the world around you has become something that brings players together across cities, countries, and cultures,” he said. With new mainline Pokémon titles set to release next year, the game continues to attract new generations of players.

This weekend, millions will participate in the global Pokémon Go Fest, featuring more Mewtwo encounters and collaborative challenges. As the game evolves, it remains committed to creating opportunities for discovery and connection among players.