Mega Rayquaza in Pokemon GO (Image via Niantic)

Mega Rayquaza is returning to Pokemon GO, bringing one of the most powerful and visually striking Mega Pokemon back to raids. Known for its unmatched power, iconic design, and devastating move pool, this serpentine dragon remains a top-tier threat in both raids and gym battles. Trainers will need a solid strategy, well-prepared teams, and coordination to take it down. Here’s a complete Mega Rayquaza Raid Guide covering everything you need to know – from counters and IVs to weather effects, group sizes, and expert strategies.Unlike most Mega Pokemon, Rayquaza requires both Mega Energy and the exclusive move Dragon Ascent – which can only be taught using a Meteorite – to Mega Evolve. This makes preparation key if you plan to unlock its true potential.

Mega Rayquaza Stats and Weaknesses in Pokemon GO

Pokemon GO’s Mega Rayquaza (Image via Niantic)

Mega Rayquaza’s 2× weakness to Ice makes it particularly vulnerable to Ice-type attackers, which should form the foundation of your counter team.

100% IV CP Chart for Mega Rayquaza in Pokemon GO

Trainers hunting for a perfect Rayquaza should look for these CP values after a successful raid: • 2191 CP – Perfect IV at Level 20 (no weather boost) • 2739 CP – Perfect IV at Level 25 (boosted by Windy weather)These benchmarks help identify 100% IV Rayquaza encounters immediately after capture.

Best Counters for Mega Rayquaza in Pokemon GO

Because of its double Ice weakness, Ice-type Pokemon dominate this raid. The best general and shadow counters include:

To maximize candy and XL candy rewards, it’s recommended to Mega Evolve a Dragon-type such as Mega Salamence or Mega Garchomp before taking on the raid.

Recommended Group Size for Mega Rayquaza Raids in Pokemon GO

Mega Rayquaza is among the most challenging Mega Raid bosses in Pokemon GO. While top-level players using optimal Ice-type teams can defeat it with three Trainers, a safer and more comfortable range is four to seven Trainers. This ensures faster completion and higher survival rates even with less-than-perfect teams.

Best Weather for Mega Rayquaza Raids in Pokemon GO

Weather plays a crucial role in the Mega Rayquaza raid, influencing both difficulty and rewards: • Windy Weather boosts Rayquaza’s Dragon Ascent, Outrage, and Aerial Ace, increasing its power while also raising its maximum catch CP to 2739 for 100% IVs. It also grants more Stardust upon capture. • Snowy Weather benefits Ice-type attackers by amplifying their damage output, making it the best possible weather condition for battling Rayquaza. • Cloudy Weather provides a slight edge for Fairy-type Pokemon such as Mega Gardevoir or Zacian.If your team isn’t highly optimized, try to avoid Windy conditions, as boosted attacks from Rayquaza can easily knock out your counters.

Best PvP and PvE IVs of Mega Rayquaza in Pokemon GO

For PvE (Raids and Gyms), the goal is clear – aim for a 15/15/15 IV Mega Rayquaza to achieve maximum damage output and endurance.In PvP, since Mega Pokemon are not currently allowed, the base Rayquaza’s best spreads for Master League and Ultra League are 15/14/14 or 14/15/15, balancing attack strength and defensive sustainability. These spreads ensure optimal performance against high-level opponents.

How to Defeat Mega Rayquaza in Pokemon GO

1. Prioritize Ice attackers – use shadows, megas, and legendaries with Ice-type moves to exploit its double weakness. 2. Avoid Dragon and Flying Pokemon unless absolutely necessary, as they are vulnerable to Rayquaza’s STAB moves. 3. Dodge key charge moves like Dragon Ascent and Outrage, which can easily knock out most counters, especially under Windy weather. 4. Revive and rejoin strategically – time your team switches efficiently to minimize downtime and maximize DPS.

Pro Tips for Raid Day

Pokemon GO Mega Rayquaza Raid Day (Image via Niantic)

• Begin early to make full use of the 3-hour window and collect all available free Raid Passes. • Coordinate with local players – this raid is built for teamwork, and group play ensures success. • Manage Meteorites wisely since Dragon Ascent is required for Mega Evolution. Ensure the Rayquaza you plan to Mega Evolve already knows the move. • Set Rayquaza as your buddy to earn additional Mega Energy after the event. • Look out for its shiny form – Shiny Rayquaza, with its sleek black design, remains one of the rarest and most coveted Pokemon in the game.Also read: Pokemon GO Mega Rayquaza Raid Day preparation guide (October 18, 2025): Event details, rewards, best tips and tricks, and moreMega Rayquaza’s return marks one of Pokemon GO’s most anticipated events of 2025. With an extraordinary max CP of 6458, unmatched offensive power, and legendary status among fans, it stands as one of the most challenging yet rewarding raid encounters in the game. Whether you’re chasing a perfect IV, optimizing your raid lineup, or hunting its shiny form, conquering Mega Rayquaza will be a true badge of honor for every Pokemon GO Trainer this October.