Niantic will offer Pokémon GO players a new, ticketed research event on February 15, 2026, as the company continues its push to monetize the augmented reality game following its recent sale to Scopely [[2]]. The limited-time event, priced at $4.99,provides access to exclusive in-game items and bonuses,a common practice as Niantic aims to bolster revenue streams [[1]]. Player concerns over increased monetization have recently surfaced following reports of the sale [[3]].
Pokémon GO players will have access to a limited-time research event on February 15, 2026, for $4.99, or the equivalent in their local currency. The event offers exclusive in-game rewards and bonuses, continuing Niantic’s strategy of monetizing special content within the popular augmented reality game.
Participants who purchase access to the temporary research will receive a Max T-shirt, 25,000 XP, and 6,400 Max Particles. Additionally, players will benefit from double XP during Max Battles.
The research event will be active from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM local time on Sunday, February 15, 2026. Tickets can be purchased within the Pokémon GO app and gifted to friends who have reached “Great Friend” status.
According to the game’s terms of service, all purchases, including those made for other players, are non-refundable, with exceptions as outlined in the official Conditions of Service. Pokémon Coins cannot be used to purchase tickets.
The event tickets will be available for purchase in the in-game shop until 5:00 PM local time on Sunday, February 15, 2026.
