The start of 2026 is already proving to be an electrifying year for trainers across the United States. Niantic has just confirmed that Pokémon Go set to host new High Zaptitude event to mark Wattrel’s debut, bringing a surge of Electric-type energy to the mobile AR world. For US players who have been waiting for more Paldean favorites to arrive, this mid-January event is the perfect opportunity to hit the streets, explore local parks, and collaborate with the global community.
From New York to San Francisco, trainers will need to work together to unlock the event’s most anticipated features. This isn’t just a standard spawn increase; it’s a tiered challenge that rewards active gameplay and exploration. If you want to be among the first to add Kilowattrel to your Pokédex, staying informed about the event mechanics is essential.
What Is Pokémon Go Set to Host New High Zaptitude Event to Mark Wattrel’s Debut?
The Pokémon Go set to host new High Zaptitude event to mark Wattrel’s debut is a worldwide celebration focused on Electric-type Pokémon and the introduction of the “Storm Petrel” Pokémon, Wattrel. Running from January 13 to January 18, 2026, the event features a unique “Global Challenge” system. Instead of the new Pokémon being available immediately, trainers worldwide must complete collective tasks to unlock Wattrel spawns.
In addition to the debut of the Wattrel family, the event highlights the first-ever appearance of Shiny Tadbulb. For competitive players, the debut of Wattrel and its evolution, Kilowattrel, is particularly exciting. As an Electric/Flying-type, Kilowattrel has the potential to shake up the Great League meta, making this event a high priority for PvP enthusiasts across the USA.
Latest Updates (Updated Today)
As of today, the official event details have been finalized, and trainers are already preparing their incubators. The High Zaptitude event is scheduled to begin this Tuesday at 10:00 AM local time and will conclude on Sunday evening.
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Global Challenge Progress: Players are encouraged to save their Egg-hatching efforts for the event start, as hatching Eggs is expected to be a primary driver for the Global Challenge levels.
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Web Store Exclusives: A special “High Zaptitude Ultra Ticket Box” has appeared on the Pokémon Go Web Store. It offers a slight discount for US players looking to maximize their rewards with extra Max Revives and Potions.
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Shiny News: Confirmation has arrived that Toxel will also be appearing in 2 km Eggs during the event, though Shiny Tadbulb remains the “star” hatch with increased odds.
How to Use / How It Works (Step-by-Step)
Participating in the High Zaptitude event requires a mix of individual effort and global cooperation. Here is a step-by-step guide to making the most of the festivities:
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Check the Global Challenge: Open your “Today” view in the app to see the current progress of the community. There are three levels of rewards to unlock.
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Hatch 2 km Eggs: To unlock Level 1 (Double Catch XP) and Level 2 (Wattrel Debut), the community needs to hatch a massive number of Eggs. Focus on 2 km Eggs for the fastest turnaround.
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Unlock Level 2: Once Level 2 is achieved, Wattrel will officially begin appearing in the wild and in Field Research tasks throughout the US.
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Evolve to Kilowattrel: Collect 50 Wattrel Candy to evolve your best Wattrel into Kilowattrel.
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Complete Field Research: Spin PokéStops to collect event-exclusive tasks. These are often the best way to find high-IV specimens of the featured Electric types.
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Optional Paid Research: If you choose to buy the $1.99 ticket, make sure to clear the Timed Research before Sunday at 8:00 PM to claim your Incubators and Tadbulb encounters.
Tips for US Players
Navigating a winter event in the US can be tricky depending on your region. Here are some specific tips to help you stay ahead:
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Utilize Adventure Sync: Since the Global Challenge relies heavily on distance and hatching, ensure your Adventure Sync is turned on. This allows you to rack up kilometers even when the app is closed—perfect for those cold January walks.
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Focus on the Web Store: For trainers in the USA, purchasing the event ticket through the Pokémon Go Web Store often provides better value or “Ultra” bundles that aren’t available in the standard in-game shop.
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Target the Great League: If you find a Wattrel with low Attack and high Defense/Stamina IVs, save it. Kilowattrel’s typing is very effective against common meta threats like Azumarill and Skarmory.
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Stack Your Bonuses: If the community reaches Level 3, you’ll get Double Hatch Stardust. Save your 10 km or 12 km Eggs for this window to maximize your Stardust gains with a Star Piece.
Common Problems and Fixes
With any major Pokémon Go event, players may encounter a few technical or gameplay hurdles.
| Problem | Potential Fix |
| Wattrel isn’t appearing | Wattrel only spawns after the Level 2 Global Challenge is met. Check the “Today” tab for progress. |
| Adventure Sync not tracking | Toggle Adventure Sync off and on in settings, and ensure your phone’s battery saver mode is disabled. |
| Shiny Tadbulb not hatching | While odds are increased, it is still a game of luck. Focus on 2 km Eggs to increase your “rolls” per kilometer. |
| Timed Research disappeared | This research expires on Sunday at 8:00 PM local time. You must claim all rewards before the timer hits zero. |
Is It Safe and Legal in the USA?
Yes, playing Pokémon Go and participating in the High Zaptitude event is entirely legal and safe in the United States. However, players should always remain aware of their surroundings, especially when exploring new urban areas or parks.
Niantic continues to emphasize safety by including speed locks and in-game warnings. Furthermore, using a VPN or third-party “spoofing” software to fake your location is against the game’s Terms of Service and can lead to a permanent ban. To keep your account safe, always play the game as intended: by walking and exploring your real-world environment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. When does the High Zaptitude event start in the US?
The event kicks off on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at 10:00 AM local time, regardless of which US time zone you are in.
2. Is the Wattrel evolution expensive?
No, it only takes 50 Wattrel Candy to evolve Wattrel into Kilowattrel. You can easily earn this by catching about 7 to 10 Wattrel with Pinap Berries.
3. What are the 2 km Egg hatches for this event?
During the event, 2 km Eggs can hatch Pichu, Elekid, Toxel, and Tadbulb. All of these have a chance to be Shiny, with Tadbulb having boosted odds.
4. Do I have to pay to get Wattrel?
No. While there is a paid $1.99 Timed Research ticket, Wattrel and Kilowattrel are free for all players once the community completes the Level 2 Global Challenge.
Conclusion
The High Zaptitude event is a fantastic way to kick off the new season of Precious Paths. By bringing the community together for a Global Challenge, Niantic is reminding us that the heart of the game is collaboration. Whether you are hunting for that elusive Shiny Tadbulb or looking to dominate the GO Battle League with a new Kilowattrel, there is plenty to do this week.
Stay safe, keep your portable chargers ready, and let’s help the world unlock those rewards!
Are you ready to charge up your Pokédex? Head out today and start hatching those Eggs to help US trainers reach the Level 2 goal!
