‘Pokémon the Movie: Secrets of the Jungle’ Fans Can Encounter a Rare Character During Special Pokémon Go Event

The elusive Zarude has been spotted! For a limited time, Pokémon Go players can find this rare Mythical Pokémon thanks to Niantic’s Secrets of the Jungle event. The character’s debut comes in celebration of Pokémon the Movie: Secrets of the Jungle, which releases on Netflix on Oct. 8. All Pokémon fans won’t want to miss this opportunity; here’s what to know about the event.

‘Pokémon the Movie: Secrets of the Jungle’ follows Koko and the Mythical Pokémon Zarude

In early September, The Pokémon Company officially announced the upcoming Netflix release. Pokémon the Movie: Secrets of the Jungle follows a troop of Zarude living in the Forest of Okoya. When a Zarude finds a baby boy in the jungle, he takes the child under his wing and names him Koko. Koko is human, but he lives his life as a Zarude.

However, years later, Ash and Pikachu visit the Forest of Okoya and meet Koko by chance, which causes Koko to doubt himself. He’s intrigued by human life, but Zarude have long vowed to avoid interaction with humans. His loyalty to Zarude is tested when danger threatens the forest.

Pokémon the Movie: Secrets of the Jungle will release on Netflix worldwide, except in Japan, China, and Korea. The Pokémon Company released the film in Japan in December 2020.

In a press release released by Netflix, The Pokémon Company’s Senior Vice President of Licensing, Emily Arons, stated that the film is a contribution to Pokémon’s 25th anniversary.

“During Pokémon’s 25th anniversary year, we wanted fans to have the opportunity to experience the newest animated Pokémon movie simultaneously as a global community,” Arons explained. “Pokémon animation is a much-beloved pillar of the franchise, and Netflix is the perfect partner to once again help us deliver a worldwide moment for fans as we celebrate 25 years of action and adventure with Ash and his Pikachu.”

‘Pokémon Go’ players can nab rare Zarude for a limited time

The Pokémon Go jungle event began on Oct. 1 and runs until Oct. 10 at 8 p.m local time. According to the game’s blog, players can encounter Zarude by completing Special Research. In addition to Zarude, several other Pokémon from the film will feature in the event. Players need to claim the Special Research Task before the event ends, but they can complete it any time.

“Complete this research line to encounter Zarude and help Professor Willow learn more about the Rogue Monkey Pokémon. This is the first time that this Dark- and Grass-type Mythical Pokémon will be available in Pokémon Go,” the blog post reads.

The event also includes the return of Jessie and James, free avatar items in the shop, and more.