The Looming Shadow: A Guide to Eternatus in Pokémon Go

Published in Humor and Quirks on Friday, August 22nd 2025 at 11:14 GMT by Polygon
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The world of Pokémon Go is bracing for a significant event – the arrival of Eternatus, one of the most powerful Pokémon ever conceived. This colossal being, previously only glimpsed during Team GO Rocket’s takeover, is now central to a new Special Research questline titled "A Shadowy Encounter." But acquiring this Legendary and powering it up isn't as simple as battling it once. It requires a significant investment in Shadow Purifying Cubes and a deep understanding of the mechanics involved. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Eternatus, its acquisition, and how to maximize your chances of success.

Eternatus: More Than Just a Boss Battle

Eternatus isn't just another Pokémon Go raid boss. It’s the centerpiece of a multi-stage Special Research quest that introduces Shadow Purifying Cubes – a brand new item crucial for evolving Eternamax Eternatus. This research line, "A Shadowy Encounter," is available to all players and unfolds in stages, each requiring completion before progressing. The ultimate goal isn't just catching Eternatus; it’s transforming it into its colossal Eternamax form.

The Stages of “A Shadowy Encounter” & Cube Acquisition

The Special Research questline is divided into several stages, with each stage rewarding players with Shadow Purifying Cubes. These cubes are essential for the final evolution step and are currently the only way to obtain them. Here's a breakdown (as of current information – Niantic may adjust this):

Stage 1: Introduces the concept of Shadow Purifying Cubes and provides a small number.
Stage 2: Requires completing Field Research tasks, often involving catching specific Pokémon or spinning PokéStops. Rewards more cubes.
Stage 3: Involves battling Team GO Rocket grunts and leaders. Defeating them yields additional cubes. This stage is particularly important as it provides a significant chunk of the required resources.
Stage 4 (and beyond): Further Field Research and Team GO Rocket battles continue to reward Shadow Purifying Cubes, leading up to the final encounter with Eternatus.

The exact number of cubes needed for the full evolution isn't publicly confirmed yet, but estimates suggest a substantial amount – likely in the hundreds. This means actively participating in Field Research tasks and battling Team GO Rocket will be vital throughout the event.

Catching Eternatus: The Shadowy Encounter Raid

Once you’ve progressed through enough stages of “A Shadowy Encounter,” you'll unlock the opportunity to battle Eternatus in a five-star raid. This isn't your typical raid; Eternatus appears as a Shadow Pokémon, making it significantly more challenging to defeat.

Best Counters: As with any raid, choosing effective counters is crucial. Given Eternatus’s typing (Poison/Steel), strong Fairy and Fighting-type Pokémon are recommended. Examples include: Mega Gardevoir: Deals massive Fairy-type damage. Mega Lucario: A powerful Fighting-type attacker. Dialga: Steel-type with excellent attack stats. Reshiram: Dragon and Fire type, offering good coverage. * Xerneas: Fairy-type with a unique ability to boost damage.
Raid Difficulty: Expect a tough fight! Eternatus’s Shadow form boasts increased bulk and attack power, requiring coordinated teamwork and high-level Pokémon to overcome.

Evolving into Eternamax Eternatus: The Cube Investment

Catching Eternatus is only the first step. To unlock its true potential – the Eternamax form – you must use Shadow Purifying Cubes on it. This process isn't instantaneous; it requires a significant investment of cubes over time.

Cube Usage: The exact mechanics of cube usage are still being clarified, but it appears players will need to regularly feed Eternatus Shadow Purifying Cubes through its Pokémon Summary screen.
Time Commitment: The evolution process is expected to take several days or even weeks, requiring consistent effort and a steady supply of cubes.
Visual Changes: As you use cubes, Eternatus’s appearance will gradually change, visually representing its purification and transformation into the Eternamax form.

Tips for Success

Prioritize Cube Acquisition: Focus on completing Field Research tasks and battling Team GO Rocket to maximize your cube collection.
Team Up for Raids: Eternatus raids are challenging; coordinate with other players to ensure a successful victory.
Stockpile Potions & Revives: Prepare for intense battles by stocking up on potions and revives.
Stay Informed: Niantic is likely to release more details about the event as it progresses, so stay updated through official Pokémon Go channels. The arrival of Eternatus marks a significant shift in Pokémon Go's gameplay, introducing new mechanics and requiring players to engage with the game in different ways. The quest for Eternamax Eternatus will be a test of dedication and teamwork, but the reward – witnessing the full power of this Legendary Pokémon – promises to be well worth the effort. Good luck, Trainers!

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The Looming Shadow: A Guide to Eternatus in Pokémon Go