Pokémon Go is adopting a new approach to its live events ahead of the Go Tour: Kalos, which begins on February 28, 2026. The global event coincides with the 30th anniversary of the Pokémon franchise and represents the sixth Go Tour since the event series launched in 2021. For the first time, Niantic and Scopely are adding a multi-day prelude that revisits five previous Pokémon regions in the days leading up to the main event.
Since its inception, Go Tour has highlighted a specific Pokémon region each year, starting with Kanto in 2021, followed by Johto in 2022, and progressing through successive generations. The 2026 event will focus on Kalos, the setting of Pokémon’s sixth generation, but will now include a “week-long rewind” that revisits prior Go Tour regions. This prelude encourages players to engage daily and includes a monetized option through the Go Pass Deluxe, which provides additional in-game rewards.
Revisiting Previous Pokémon Regions
The pre-event strategy allows players to experience content from earlier Go Tours. Starting on February 23, Pokémon Go will focus on Kanto, featuring creatures such as Pikachu, Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle. Legendary raids will include Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres. The following day, the game will revisit Johto, highlighting Pokémon like Totodile, Ho-Oh, and Lugia.
February 25 will center on Hoenn, featuring starters like Treecko and Mudkip alongside Primal Groudon and Kyogre raids. The original Hoenn event in 2023 was notably lucrative, generating $11.5 million in a single day. Sinnoh will be featured on February 26, with Pokémon such as Turtwig, Chimchar, and Piplup, alongside Origin Forme Dialga and Palkia raids, which previously offered unique in-game mechanics in 2024. The prelude concludes on February 27 with Unova, spotlighting Snivy, Oshawott, and Kyurem. The prior Unova Go Tour in 2025 was the third-most profitable event of that year, earning $19.8 million over one weekend.
Go Tour: Kalos Main Event
The main Go Tour: Kalos event will take place on February 28. It will include shiny Diancie and introduce new Mega Evolutions inspired by Pokémon Legends: Z-A, a Nintendo Switch title. The event is expected to be a highlight for both long-time and returning players, combining new content with nostalgic encounters from previous generations.
Context Within Pokémon Go’s History
This Go Tour occurs under notable circumstances. It marks the fifth anniversary of the Go Tour series, which began during the global pandemic, and comes just months before Pokémon Go’s 10th anniversary in July 2026. It is also the first Go Tour under Scopely’s ownership, following the $3.5 billion acquisition of Niantic’s licensed games portfolio in 2025. Historically, Go Tour events have been among Pokémon Go’s most lucrative, and the addition of a multi-day prelude may increase engagement and spending in the days leading up to Kalos.
Source: PocketGamer
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When does Pokémon Go Tour: Kalos start?
Go Tour: Kalos begins on February 28, 2026, with a five-day prelude starting on February 23.
Which Pokémon regions will be featured in the prelude?
The prelude will revisit five previous regions in order: Kanto, Johto, Hoenn, Sinnoh, and Unova.
What special Pokémon will be available during Go Tour: Kalos?
Players can encounter shiny Diancie, new Mega Evolutions from Pokémon Legends: Z-A, and various starters and legendaries from previous generations during the prelude.
Is there a way to get additional rewards during the event?
Yes, the Go Pass Deluxe offers extra in-game rewards during both the prelude and the main Kalos event.
Who currently owns Pokémon Go?
Scopely owns Pokémon Go, following its acquisition of Niantic’s licensed games portfolio in 2025.
Why is this Go Tour different from previous years?
For the first time, Pokémon Go is revisiting prior regions in a multi-day prelude before the main event, offering players a chance to engage with content from earlier Go Tours.
