Pokémon GO Tour: Kalos introduces Link Charges, a new in-game currency that you use to access Mega Raids. This resource remains in the game beyond the event, making it a key part of how you join these battles moving forward.
The update also adds Super Mega Raids, a new raid tier where Mega Pokémon can create shields that reduce incoming damage. During the global 2026 Kalos event, you can challenge Mega Victreebel, Mega Malamar, and Mega Dragonite in this format, and you will need a set amount of Link Charges to take part.
What Are Link Charges in Pokémon GO
Link Charges act as a dedicated in-game currency that you use to access Mega Raids and Super Mega Raids. The game stores them in a special item called the Link Holder, which typically caps at 600 charges at a time.
When you join an in-person Mega or Super Mega Raid, you can spend Link Charges instead of a Premium Raid Pass. If you join remotely, you must use Link Charges alongside a Remote Raid Pass, making them an essential resource for long-distance participation.
Standard Mega Raids require a set number of charges, while Super Mega Raids cost 200 Link Charges per entry.
How to Earn Link Charges
You can build up Link Charges either by spending PokéCoins or by staying active in the game. Both options let you prepare for Mega and Super Mega Raids without relying on a single method.
If you prefer a direct purchase, visit the in-game Shop.
- 100 PokéCoins: 200 Link Charges
- 250 PokéCoins: 600 Link Charges
You can also collect them at no cost through regular play. Focus on these activities:
- Weekly Challenges
- Research tasks
- GO Pass objectives
- Opening Gifts from Friends
By completing tasks and interacting with your Friends list, you steadily increase your supply without spending real money.
Impact on the Current Mega Raid System
Link Charges change how you access Mega and Super Mega Raids, not how you battle inside them. You can use them in place of Premium Raid Passes, which lowers the cost barrier if you prefer not to spend money.
If you play for free, you gain more flexibility. You can earn this currency through regular gameplay and still join high-level raids without buying passes.
If you rely on Remote Raid Passes, you may feel the shift more strongly. The system encourages you to attend raids in person and engage with local groups rather than raiding exclusively from home.
Once you enter a raid, nothing else changes.
- Battle mechanics remain the same
- Reward pools stay consistent
- Performance and difficulty do not shift based on entry method
The currency mainly affects how you enter raids, not what you earn or how you fight.
