What Is a Special Background in Pokemon Go
A Special Background is a cosmetic souvenir image that shows up on a Pokemon's summary page, marking that it was caught during a specific event. Niantic introduced these ahead of Pokemon GO Fest 2024: Global, expanding on the original Location Backgrounds that were only available to players attending real-world events.
The background fades in and out on the Pokemon's summary screen, cycling between the normal type background and the Special Background art. It's purely cosmetic and doesn't change a Pokemon's stats, moves, or CP, but it does make that specific catch permanently tied to the event it came from.
How to Get a Special Background Pokemon Go
Special Backgrounds are earned by catching specific Pokemon during specific in-game events, most often five-star raids tied to a Pokemon GO Fest or GO Tour. During the event window, every Trainer worldwide has a chance to receive the Special Background version when they make a successful catch, no ticket or travel required.
Location Backgrounds work a bit differently since those are tied to real-world events like GO Fest meetups, where only Trainers physically attending get the chance to catch a Pokemon with that specific location's background. Once the event ends, both types of backgrounds become unobtainable through normal gameplay, which is why trading is often the only way to add one to your account afterward.
How Rare Is a Special Background in Pokemon Go
Rarity depends entirely on the event. Some Special Backgrounds are tied to broad five-star raids where a large number of players got a shot at catching one, making them more common. Others are tied to smaller ticketed events, limited research, or one specific in-person location, which makes them much harder to come by.
Because these backgrounds can't be earned again once an event passes, trading a Pokemon with one always counts as a Special Trade under Niantic's trade system. This means it takes a higher Stardust cost, has a daily trade limit, and often requires a high friendship level between the two trainers involved. That's why if you missed your chance during the original event, you can buy Special Background Pokemon on GameBoost and still add one to your collection.