Pokémon GO: A Guide to Max Battles, Dynamax

Pokémon GO has introduced an exciting new feature: Max Battles, where players can challenge Dynamax Pokémon and claim a guaranteed encounter with the Pokémon they defeat. Along with the thrill of these battles, victors can also earn valuable in-game rewards.

The introduction of Dynamax Pokémon has added fresh mechanics, including Max Moves, Max Particles, and the chance to battle these formidable foes in Power Spots. However, several key rules govern these battles, and this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to dominate Max Battles in Pokémon GO.

How to Participate in Max Battles in Pokémon GO

Only Dynamax Pokémon are eligible to compete in Max Battles, meaning standard Pokémon cannot participate. In these Power Spot Boss battles, up to four trainers can team up, each bringing a maximum of three Dynamax Pokémon. However, even if you only have one Dynamax Pokémon, you can still join the fight.

To enter a Max Battle, you’ll need Max Particles, with the amount required depending on the battle’s star rating (e.g., 250 Max Particles for a 1-star battle). The good news is that Max Particles are only consumed if you win, so you can retry without losing them if you don't succeed. Be sure to upgrade your Dynamax Pokémon’s Max Moves before facing tougher Power Spot Bosses, especially those with higher star ratings.

Unlike raids or the GO Battle League, Max Battles follow a turn-based combat system, requiring a more tactical approach. As usual, Fast Attacks build energy for Charged Attacks, while also filling the Max Meter displayed at the top of the screen. You can speed up this process by swiping energy icons during battle to fill the Max Meter more efficiently.

Key Rules and Tips for Max Battles

- In-Person Battles Only: You cannot use Remote Raid Passes for Max Battles. To participate, you must visit a Power Spot in person. The Power Spot tab, located beside the Route tab, helps you locate nearby Power Spots, view the bosses available, and check how long they’ll remain active.

- Dynamaxing Your Pokémon: Once the Max Meter is full, you can Dynamax one of your Pokémon for three turns. If you wish to switch which Pokémon you Dynamax, simply select another team member before the countdown ends. During this phase, you have three turns to execute your Pokémon’s Max Moves, with each move counting as one turn. The move’s cooldown acts as your timer, and you can either let the system play automatically or manually select your moves. Farming Max Particles to unlock and level up Max Moves will significantly increase your odds of success.

- Post-Dynamax Strategy: After three turns, your Pokémon will revert to its normal form but can be Dynamaxed again later in the battle. Keep an eye out for three lines above your Pokémon’s head—this indicates it’s being targeted for an attack, and you’ll need to dodge to avoid damage.

- Teamwork in Max Battles: In three-star or higher Max Battles, if all of your Pokémon faint, you can still contribute by cheering for your teammates. This boosts their Dynamax meters, helping them take down the Power Spot Boss while you’re out.

Max Battles bring a refreshing challenge to Pokémon GO, combining the thrill of teamwork with strategic turn-based gameplay. By mastering the use of Max Particles, Dynamax mechanics, and Max Moves, you’ll be well on your way to victory and can collect powerful Dynamax Pokémon along the way.