Pokémon GO Showcases Explained

Various media attended the Pokémon GO media event during the Summer Game Fest and recently playtested new features arriving in-game this summer. These features will aim to bring unique gameplay experiences and rewards, like XP and badges, to earn for participating and winning.

Showcases were one of these new in-game features, along with Routes, in which Trainers can unleash their competitive edge by entering competitions to unlock Achievements, gain Badges, and earn rewards. In this guide, we’ll discuss what we know about Showcases, including how to join and more for Pokémon GO.

14th November 2023 Update: Niantic announced the next set of Showcases that are taking place throughout October 2023 for the Season of Adventures Abound. The original reporting continues below.

What Are Showcases In Pokémon GO?

Showcases are a new competitive feature available in Pokémon GO, where Trainers can show off their Pokémon in a competitive manner against other Trainers. Trainers can compete in these competitions at selected PokéStops, for which you can proudly showcase your Pokémon and their "extra-special" attributes.

When entering a Showcase, a limited number of Pokémon can enter, according to a developer blog from Niantic. As for which Pokémon are eligible, they "will be chosen from Pokémon featured in Pokémon GO’s current event," for which the next event is the 7th Anniversary Party starting 6th July 2023. 

How Do Showcases Work in Pokémon GO?

Once Trainers approach a PokéStop hosting a Showcase, they’ll be prompted to join the Showcase competition, and you can select from any Pokémon within your Inventory to participate. Trainers should review the competition requirements before selecting their chosen Pokémon, as some may not be ineligible to compete.

After meeting the competition’s requirements and selecting the Pokémon you’ll be using to compete, you can enter the Showcase, where you can participate in the Showcase activities. Just entering and competing in the Showcase will award Trainers with various rewards, including battle items and, most importantly, badges.

Additionally, Trainers can switch their Showcase-eligible Pokémon throughout the event's duration. This includes Pokémon that were entered, which can be done remotely, according to Niantic.

Trainers can also view current rankings for the ongoing Showcase event by viewing the Leaderboard. This Leaderboard can be accessed by tapping on the PokéStop's Showcase page and locating the Leaderboard tab to view all competing Pokémon rankings.

Are There Rewards For Pokémon GO Showcases?

After the Showcase event has ended, every Trainer can receive rewards for participating in the competition event. These rewards include Stardust, XP, and other rewards; however, the top three placed Trainers can receive a Star Piece, an Incubator, and more.

The winning Trainer will get earn a Medal to commemorate your Achievements by taking part in Showcases when earning victories or reaching various milestones. To claim your Showcase rewards, Trainers can navigate to the Today View tab to find the event or go to the hosting PokéStop, highlighted in orange, to grab the rewards.

You must also claim rewards from the previous Showcase competition before participating in the next Showcase. At the PokéStop, you can view Showcase leaderboards, rankings, and results, share your Achievements, and more with friends, but for now, we'll have to wait until we're able to enter Showcases in Pokémon GO.