Raikou Pokémon GO remains one of the strongest Electric-type Legendary Pokémon available, and with its appearance in the Pokémon GO March GO Pass, many Trainers are asking the same questions: Is Raikou still good? What’s the best moveset? Can it be Shiny? And is it worth powering up in 2026?
Here’s a full breakdown of everything you need to know about Raikou in Pokémon GO.
Who Is Raikou?
Raikou is one of the Legendary Beasts from the Johto region, first introduced in Pokémon Gold and Silver. Alongside Entei and Suicune, Raikou represents the power of lightning.
In Pokémon GO, Raikou is a pure Electric-type Pokémon known for its high Attack stat and strong performance in raids.
How to Get Raikou in Pokémon GO (2026)
There are currently a few ways Trainers may obtain Raikou Pokémon GO:
Raikou is available as an encounter reward through the Pokémon GO March GO Pass progression track.
2. Five-Star Raids (When Active)
Raikou periodically returns to Tier 5 raids during event rotations.
3. Special Events
Occasionally, Raikou appears during themed Legendary events.
If you’re wondering how to get Raikou Pokémon GO right now, the March GO Pass is one of the most accessible current methods.
READ MORE: Pokémon 30th Anniversary Celebration – Pokémon GO Event – A Complete Guide
Can Raikou Be Shiny in Pokémon GO?
Yes.
Shiny Raikou Pokémon GO is available and has been released for some time. When encountered through raids or special rewards (including GO Pass encounters), there is a chance it can appear in its Shiny form.
Shiny Raikou features:
Brighter golden fur
More vibrant blue cloud-like mane
Subtle but noticeable colour differences
As with other Legendary Pokémon, Shiny odds are typically higher in raids than standard wild encounters (though GO Pass reward odds follow event parameters).
Raikou Best Moveset Pokémon GO
If you’re planning to power one up, choosing the correct moveset matters.
Best Fast Move:
Thunder Shock
Best Charged Move:
Wild Charge
This combination gives Raikou its highest Electric-type damage output in PvE.
Alternative Charged Moves:
Shadow Ball (coverage option)
Thunder
For raid damage output, Thunder Shock + Wild Charge remains the strongest overall choice.
If you’re asking “Raikou best moveset Pokémon GO?”, that’s the answer for pure DPS performance.
READ MORE: Pokémon GO March 2026 Events – Full Schedule, Raids, Spotlight Hours & Community Day
Is Raikou Good in Pokémon GO?
Short answer: Yes, especially for raids.
Raikou performs well as:
An Electric-type raid attacker
A counter to Water-type raid bosses
A counter to Flying-type raid bosses
It does not dominate Master League PvP, but that’s not its main role.
In PvE, Raikou remains a strong and reliable option, especially if you don’t have multiple high-level Zekrom or other Electric alternatives.
Raikou Raid Counters – How to Beat It
Raikou is weak to Ground-type attacks only.
Top Raikou raid counters include:
Groudon
Garchomp
Rhyperior
Excadrill
If you’re preparing for a Raikou raid rotation, focus on strong Ground-type attackers with high CP and optimal movesets.
Should You Power Up Raikou in 2026?
This depends on your roster.
Power up Raikou if:
You lack strong Electric-type attackers
You focus on raid battles
You secure a high IV or Shiny version
You may skip heavy investment if:
You already have multiple high-level Electric Legendaries
You prioritise PvP over PvE
For most mid-level Trainers, Raikou is still worth building, especially if obtained through the GO Pass without needing raid passes.
Raikou Pokémon GO
Raikou Pokémon GO continues to hold relevance in 2026 thanks to its strong Electric-type damage, Legendary status, and Shiny availability. Its appearance in the Pokémon GO March GO Pass gives Trainers an accessible way to add this Johto powerhouse to their roster.
Whether you’re chasing Shiny Raikou, building a raid team, or simply expanding your Legendary collection, Raikou remains a solid pickup.
