Guides Pokémon GO Edward Collins

Pokémon Go Showcase, including how to enter PokéStop Showcases, how to switch Pokémon and rewards explained

PokéStop Showcases are exciting contests that take place at PokéStops within Pokémon Go. During these Showcases, players can enter their Pokémon, which will be judged based on specific criteria, such as size, against the entries of other players. Your performance in these contests can lead to various rewards and help you progress on the PokéStop Showcase medal.

Before diving into the fun, it’s essential to understand how to enter PokéStop Showcases, how to switch Pokémon, and the rewards that await you.

PokéStop Showcases Explained: How Many Players Can Enter?

PokéStop Showcases were introduced in July 2023 and are held at PokéStops during various events. These contests focus on a limited selection of Pokémon, judging them based on certain criteria like size. Each Showcase lasts for a limited time, ensuring that all participants are rewarded for their entry. If you manage to secure the first place, you will also make progress toward your Showcase Star medal.

According to official sources, up to 200 Pokémon can be entered into a Showcase at once. However, some players have reported that only 50 participants can compete at any given time. You can enter a maximum of three Showcases simultaneously, meaning you’ll need to withdraw from one if you’d like to participate in another.

How to Enter PokéStop Showcases

To enter a PokéStop Showcase, first locate a PokéStop that is hosting a contest. Look for a blue circular icon hovering above the PokéStop, which indicates that a Showcase is in progress. You can also check the ‘Nearby’ menu to find Showcases happening around you, similar to how you would for raids.

Once you are within the radius of the PokéStop, select it. You’ll see a button labeled ‘Showcase’ beneath the photodisc. Click this to access the Showcase menu. Here, you can view which Pokémon can be entered, the judging criteria, and when the Showcase will conclude.

Initially, the system will suggest the best-suited Pokémon from your collection for the contest. However, you can select ‘Enter Different Pokémon’ to choose another from your storage. Each Pokémon will have a points value corresponding to how well it meets the Showcase criteria—the higher the points, the better it is likely to perform.

After you’ve selected your Pokémon, click the ‘Enter’ button. Your Pokémon will receive a star rating based on its suitability for the competition, determining its rank against other participants. Keep in mind that your position may change as other players enter their Pokémon, so be prepared to switch out if necessary.

How to Switch Pokémon in PokéStop Showcases

If you wish to switch your Pokémon during a PokéStop Showcase, access the Showcase menu for the contest you’re participating in. Scroll to the ‘Your Pokémon’ section, where you’ll find the ‘Switch Pokémon’ option. This will display all eligible Pokémon from your storage.

You can switch Pokémon either by visiting the PokéStop in person or through the ‘Pokémon in Showcases’ section in the ‘Today’ tab. However, you cannot completely withdraw from a Showcase via the ‘Today’ tab.

PokéStop Showcases Rewards Explained

One of the most appealing aspects of PokéStop Showcases is that every trainer who participates will receive rewards once the Showcase concludes. These rewards can include Stardust and XP, but the top three finishers will earn even better prizes.

Players who secure a top-three spot have the chance to receive Incubators or Star Pieces. Notably, first-place winners have been reported to earn Stardust, Great Balls, and Hyper Potions.

Furthermore, starting from March 1, 2024, players can win encounters with Pikachu, Ph.D., along with its related avatar clothing by excelling in Showcases and advancing through the Showcase Star medal.

The specific wins required to achieve these rewards include: