Mewtwo is not just another Legendary Pokémon—it is one of the most powerful, iconic, and desirable Pokémon in the entire franchise. For many trainers, catching Mewtwo feels like a milestone achievement in Pokémon GO.
However, Mewtwo is not always available, and many players—especially new or returning ones—are confused about where, when, and how to get it.
This guide breaks everything down clearly, so you know exactly what to do, what to prepare for, and what to expect.
Is Mewtwo Available in Pokémon GO Right Now?
Mewtwo is not permanently available in Pokémon GO.
- It appears only during limited-time events
- Availability is controlled by Niantic’s event rotation
- When inactive, Mewtwo cannot be caught, hatched, or encountered
How to Check Availability
- In-game News section
- Official Pokémon GO social channels
- Raid boss announcements for Tier 5 raids
If Mewtwo is not currently active, the only option is to wait for its return and prepare in advance.
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Main Ways to Get Mewtwo in Pokémon GO
There are three legitimate ways to obtain Mewtwo. Each method depends on special events.
1. Catch Mewtwo Through 5-Star Legendary Raids
This is the most common and reliable method.
How It Works
- Mewtwo appears as a Tier 5 Raid Boss
- You must defeat it in a raid battle
- After winning, you get Premier Balls to catch it
Key Raid Details
- Recommended player level: 30+
- Ideal group size: 4–8 trainers
- Remote Raid Passes: Can be used if enabled during the event
Mewtwo CP Range
- Non-weather boosted: ~2275–2387 CP
- Weather boosted (Windy): ~2844–2984 CP
A CP near the top of these ranges usually indicates high IVs.
2. Defeat Shadow Mewtwo (Team GO Rocket Method)
Shadow Mewtwo is considered one of the strongest Pokémon in the entire game.
How to Get Shadow Mewtwo
- Defeat Giovanni
- Requires a Super Rocket Radar
- Available only during special Team GO Rocket events
Important Notes
- Giovanni does not always have Shadow Mewtwo
- His legendary Pokémon rotates
- Shadow Pokémon deal 20% more damage but take more damage
Shadow Mewtwo is highly valued in PvE and PvP despite being harder to power up.
3. Get Armored Mewtwo (Special Event Variant)
Armored Mewtwo is a limited-edition version inspired by the Pokémon movie.
Key Differences
- Higher Defense, lower Attack
- Different moveset potential
- Mainly used in PvP leagues
Armored Mewtwo is event-exclusive and only returns occasionally, making it one of the rarest Mewtwo variants.
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Can You Get Mewtwo From Research or Eggs?
This is a common misconception.
| Method | Available? |
|---|---|
| Field Research | ❌ No |
| Special Research | ❌ (Very rare, event-only in the past) |
| Eggs (any distance) | ❌ No |
| Daily Encounters | ❌ No |
Raids and Giovanni events are the only ways.
How to Prepare for a Mewtwo Raid
Mewtwo is a Psychic-type Pokémon, which means it has clear weaknesses.
Best Type Counters
- Dark
- Ghost
- Bug
Strong Pokémon Choices
- Tyranitar
- Darkrai
- Giratina (Origin Forme)
- Gengar
- Hydreigon
Pro Tips
- Use Mega Evolutions (Mega Gengar, Mega Tyranitar) for damage boosts
- Avoid Fighting- and Psychic-type attackers
- Dodge charged moves if possible to preserve revives
How to Catch Mewtwo After Winning the Raid
Winning the raid does not guarantee a catch.
Best Catch Strategy
- Use Golden Razz Berries every throw
- Always throw Curveballs
- Aim for Excellent Throws
- Be patient—do not rush throws
Why Mewtwo Is Hard to Catch
- Low base catch rate (2%)
- Aggressive movement pattern
- Small catch circle
Consistency matters more than speed.
Can Mewtwo Be Shiny in Pokémon GO?
Yes, Shiny Mewtwo is available, but only during specific raid events.
Shiny Details
- Color: Green tail instead of purple
- Odds: Approximately 1 in 20 during raid events
- Shiny Mewtwo cannot flee once encountered
Shiny status does not affect stats, only appearance.
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Trading Mewtwo in Pokémon GO
Mewtwo can be traded, but there are strict rules.
Trading Rules
- Counts as a Special Trade
- Only one Special Trade per day
- High Stardust cost, especially for new friends
Stardust Cost Examples
- Good Friends: Very high
- Best Friends: Significantly reduced
Trading is useful if you missed an event—but expensive.
Final Thoughts
Getting Mewtwo in Pokémon GO requires:
- Patience
- Event awareness
- Proper raid preparation
If Mewtwo is not currently available, use the time to build counters, save raid passes, and monitor upcoming announcements. When it returns, being prepared makes all the difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mewtwo Still the Strongest Pokémon in Pokémon GO?
Mewtwo remains one of the top Psychic-type attackers, especially with moves like Psystrike. Shadow Mewtwo ranks among the best overall attackers in the game.
Can Beginners Get Mewtwo Easily?
Not solo. New players should:
1. Join local or online raid groups
2. Use Remote Raid Passes
3. Focus on survival rather than top damage
Can You Solo a Mewtwo Raid?
No. Mewtwo’s raid difficulty makes soloing impossible under normal conditions.