Pokemon Go news: Deoxys EX Raid reveal, Shiny Mewtwo coming soon?

Having leaked earlier this week, it has now been confirmed that Deoxys EX Raids are coming to Pokemon Go.

A push notification appeared last night that let slip plans to replace Mewtwo, who is launching today as a tier 5 Gym battle.

Deoxys will be replacing Mewtwo as an Ex Raid encounter, something that requires players to be invited.

The launch of Deoxys will also change how EX Raids function, with Niantic confirming that each event notice will come with a spare to give to a friend.

It means you’ll be able to call in support, likely doubling the amount attending each battle.

For those that don’t know, an EX Raid is an elite battle that provides players with the chance of catching a powerful Pokemon at a set time, at a fixed Gym location.

Unlike other raids, you need to be invited to attend an EX Raid at a specific Gym at a particular time.

If you are selected to participate in an EX Raid, you will receive an invitation in advance so that you can coordinate and strategise for the chance at defeating the powerful EX Raid Boss.

Here’s the latest information from Niantic on their new EX Raid boss, telling fans: “It’s time to prepare for a new challenge from a powerful Mythical Pokémon initially discovered in the Hoenn region.

“The DNA Pokémon, Deoxys, will arrive for EX Raid Battles. This Psychic-type Mythical Pokémon will be available to challenge in its Normal Form beginning with the next cycle of EX Raid invitations.

“Are you new to EX Raids? You can become eligible to receive an EX Raid Pass when you win a Raid Battle at a qualifying Gym.

“And from now on, you’ll be able to see which Gyms can host an EX Raid through a handy tag when you look at the Gym details.

“EX Raid Passes will give you the date and time when you’ll be able to challenge Deoxys, so mark your calendar and prepare your Pokémon for an epic battle!

“Battling Deoxys will be a difficult challenge that requires Trainers to take advantage of every opportunity—and maybe get a little help from a friend.

“From now on, when you receive an EX Raid Pass, you will be able to invite one friend to go with you.

“Keep in mind that invites can only be sent to an Ultra Friend or Best Friend, so don’t forget to battle with friends, send Gifts, and trade Pokémon to build up your Friendship level.

“Do you have what it takes? Best of luck, Trainer—Deoxys Normal Forme is waiting.”

There is also hope for today’s Mewtwo Raid launch, which will start at around 9pm in the UK.

Mewtwo will become a normal raid encounter until October, giving Trainers plenty of time to catch one.

But there could be an added bonus of a possible Mewtwo shiny popping during that time.

This hasn’t been confirmed by Niantic, who have a track record of dropping in secret bonuses and rewards during events.