Thousands of ‘Pokémon Go’ Players Descend on Times Square to Defeat Mewtwo

Times Square transformed into a virtual battlefield this Thursday as thousands of players gathered to mark the 10th anniversary of Pokemon Go. Nearly 2,000 attendees participated in a massive in-person raid to defeat Mega Mewtwo Y. This event served as a direct callback to the game’s original 2016 launch trailer, which famously featured a swarm of players converging on the iconic location for a similar showdown.

Niantic launched the mobile title ten years ago, and it remains a massive commercial success with billions in lifetime player spending. Following its acquisition by Scopely, the game has shifted focus toward strengthening local gaming communities. The company now coordinates with over 3,000 volunteer community ambassadors globally who facilitate in-person events and curate local stops.

Players traveled from various locations to participate in the controlled, invitation-only event. Attendees enjoyed a live concert before the unified raid began. This experience highlights the enduring nature of the game, which currently maintains over 100 million active players who contribute to a global network of real-world locations.

Reflecting on the decade, company leaders emphasize that the game serves as a bridge for players of all ages. Long-term users cite the game as a primary driver for social connection and physical activity in their daily routines. The development team remains committed to investing in features that improve real-world exploration and community engagement as the game looks toward its next decade of operation.