Since its launch, Pokémon GO has continued to evolve, offering exciting events, new features, and unique gameplay elements to keep trainers engaged. One of the most intriguing additions to the game is the GO Safari Ball, a special type of Poké Ball that has been featured during select events, including the highly anticipated GO Safari Zone events. These unique balls not only add a fun twist to catching Pokémon, but they also provide a unique collectible item for trainers to show off in their collections.
If you’re wondering how to get your hands on these coveted GO Safari Balls, you’re in the right place. Here’s a guide to help you understand what GO Safari Balls are and how to obtain them during special events in Pokémon GO.
What Are GO Safari Balls?
The GO Safari Ball is a limited-edition Poké Ball that is typically introduced during Pokémon GO events, such as the Safari Zone events. These special Poké Balls often feature a unique design, with a pattern or color scheme distinct from regular Poké Balls. For example, during certain events, the GO Safari Ball has been given a vibrant orange and white design, different from the classic red-and-white appearance of standard Poké Balls.
While GO Safari Balls don’t have a higher catch rate than regular Poké Balls, they are a fun, collectible item that trainers can use to catch specific event Pokémon or, in some cases, even as a trophy to commemorate their participation in a particular event. Their main appeal is that they are typically only available for a limited time, making them highly sought-after.
How to Get GO Safari Balls
There are a few ways to acquire GO Safari Balls in Pokémon GO. These methods are usually tied to specific in-game events or special promotions, so keep an eye on official announcements from Niantic regarding upcoming events where you might be able to get your hands on them.
1. Attend a GO Safari Zone Event
The most common way to get GO Safari Balls is by attending one of the GO Safari Zone events. These events are often held in specific cities or regions around the world and offer trainers the chance to catch rare or region-specific Pokémon. During these events, Niantic sometimes offers special rewards, such as the opportunity to catch Pokémon in GO Safari Balls.
- Event-Specific Pokémon: During a GO Safari Zone event, certain Pokémon that appear in the wild may only be catchable with GO Safari Balls. For example, event-specific Pokémon like Shiny variants or regional exclusives may be available to catch with these special balls.
- Event Passes: To gain access to a GO Safari Zone event, players may need to purchase an event ticket, either in advance or on the day of the event. These tickets often grant you the ability to catch Pokémon in GO Safari Balls during the event duration. Keep in mind that these events can be held both in physical locations and as remote events (in the form of global challenges and virtual Safari Zones).
2. Special Event Rewards and Bundles
Another way to get GO Safari Balls is through special in-game events and bundles. Niantic occasionally introduces limited-time events where you can receive GO Safari Balls as part of a special event reward or in an item bundle.
- Event Research Tasks: Some events feature special timed research or field research tasks that reward GO Safari Balls as part of their completion. For instance, completing certain challenges during a GO Safari Zone event could grant you the coveted balls as part of your prize.
- Store Bundles: In some cases, Niantic offers GO Safari Balls as part of an in-game bundle available for purchase in the Pokémon GO shop. These bundles often come with other items like Incubators, Lures, Lucky Eggs, or Incense, making them an attractive deal for trainers looking to stock up on event-exclusive items. If you’re lucky, you might also find a bundle specifically designed for Safari Zone participants.
3. Participate in Special Promotions
Niantic frequently partners with local events or special promotions to bring unique features to Pokémon GO. During these promotional periods, you may have the opportunity to get GO Safari Balls as part of a global event or celebration.
- Anniversary Events and Celebrations: During milestone celebrations like Pokémon GO’s anniversary or regional festivities, Niantic may release GO Safari Balls as part of an event-exclusive reward or challenge.
- Gift Shop Offers: From time to time, Niantic runs sales or offers that include GO Safari Balls as part of a limited-time promotion. These offers may include bonus packs available only for a short period.
4. Special Research Tasks or Challenges
When Niantic runs Special Research tasks, players can unlock rewards as they complete different stages of the challenge. Sometimes, these tasks can include special items like the GO Safari Ball as part of the reward for completing a step or milestone.
For example, during Pokémon GO Fest or other event-based research challenges, you may be required to complete certain tasks related to the event. If you’re lucky, GO Safari Balls may be one of the prizes for successfully completing these tasks.
Best Tips for Using GO Safari Balls
Once you’ve got your hands on some GO Safari Balls, you might be eager to use them, but keep in mind that they are limited and best used for specific Pokémon or event-specific catches. Here are a few tips for making the most out of your GO Safari Balls:
- Save Them for Rare Pokémon: Since GO Safari Balls are often linked to special events and limited-time Pokémon, it’s a good idea to save them for these unique encounters. Use them on event-exclusive Pokémon, such as shiny variants or Pokémon you can’t catch elsewhere.
- Show Off Your Collection: If you’re more into collecting than actively battling, using GO Safari Balls during regular play allows you to showcase your rare collection of event-specific Poké Balls to other trainers in the game.
- Don’t Waste Them on Common Pokémon: While it might be tempting to use a GO Safari Ball on a common Pokémon, you’re better off saving them for special moments. Common Pokémon can be caught with regular Poké Balls, and you wouldn’t want to waste your limited edition items.
Conclusion
GO Safari Balls are a fun and collectible feature in Pokémon GO, offering a unique way to catch event-specific Pokémon and participate in limited-time activities. If you’re eager to add these special Poké Balls to your collection, make sure to keep an eye on announcements for upcoming GO Safari Zone events and promotions, as these are the most reliable opportunities to get them. With Pokémon GO constantly evolving and offering new ways to interact with the game, there’s always a chance to see new mechanics and events where GO Safari Balls make an appearance, allowing trainers to enhance their experience and show off their event achievements!