The next GO Pass and GO Pass Deluxe will be available in Pokémon GO: what it means for collectors

The next GO Pass and GO Pass Deluxe will be available in Pokémon GO starting June 2nd, 2026, offering collectors and players alike new opportunities to snag valuable in-game rewards. This event, detailed on PokemonBlog.com, provides chances to earn Lugia or even Shiny Lugia, alongside other desirable items. For Pokémon card collectors, this presents a unique chance to capitalize on potential demand spikes driven by the game, and potentially add some valuable cards to their collection, or send them off for grading. Before you rush to submit your finds, use MasterGrade's free AI card grader to pre-screen your cards and get an instant assessment of their condition.

What's New with the GO Pass and GO Pass Deluxe?

According to the official announcement, the GO Pass and GO Pass Deluxe are time-limited tickets in Pokémon GO that provide access to exclusive research tasks and rewards. The crucial difference lies in the "Deluxe" version, which offers enhanced rewards and a more streamlined path to acquiring valuable Pokémon. Specifically, the event, running from June 2nd, 2026, focuses on completing pass tasks to earn Lugia or Shiny Lugia.

Key Differences Between the Passes

The core distinction between the standard GO Pass and the GO Pass Deluxe revolves around the quantity and quality of rewards, as well as the complexity of tasks. Players opting for the Deluxe version can expect:

Faster Completion: The Deluxe pass typically features fewer or simpler tasks to achieve the top-tier rewards.

Exclusive Items: Beyond the headline Pokémon, Deluxe passes often include rare items such as Incubators, Rare Candies, and Star Pieces.

Increased Encounter Rates: A higher chance of encountering Shiny or rare Pokémon during the event timeframe.

Who is Affected?

This event impacts a broad spectrum of the Pokémon community:

Pokémon GO Players: Directly affected by the event mechanics, research tasks, and available rewards.

Pokémon Card Collectors: Indirectly affected by potential fluctuations in card values based on the popularity of featured Pokémon.

Pokémon Card Investors: Those looking to profit from short-term or long-term price movements linked to the game's events.

Direct Grading and Collector Implications

The availability of Lugia and Shiny Lugia in Pokémon GO directly impacts the card collecting world. Here's why:

Increased Demand for Lugia Cards: When a Pokémon is featured prominently in Pokémon GO, its corresponding trading cards often experience a surge in demand. This is especially true for sought-after variants like Shiny Lugia.

Opportunity for Grading: If you happen to own a Lugia card in excellent condition, now might be the perfect time to consider professional grading. A high grade from PSA, BGS, or CGC can significantly increase the card's value. Remember to familiarize yourself with each grading company's specific standards. For example, according to PSA's official grading standards, centering, surface condition, and edge wear are key factors in determining a card's grade.

Potential Price Spikes: The increased demand can lead to temporary price spikes, particularly for rare or high-grade Lugia cards. Based on Q1 2026 auction data, a PSA 10 copy of the Lugia from Neo Genesis has been selling for upwards of $3,000. A similar surge in interest could drive prices even higher.

Concrete Example: Lugia from Neo Genesis

Consider the Lugia card from the Neo Genesis set. This card is already highly sought after. If the Pokémon GO event significantly boosts Lugia's popularity, collectors might be willing to pay a premium for a graded copy.

Ungraded (Near Mint): Typically sells for around $300 - $500.

PSA 9: Can fetch between $1,500 - $2,000.

PSA 10: Has sold for over $3,000 in recent auctions.

The potential for a grade bump to significantly increase value makes grading a worthwhile consideration.

What to Do Next

To capitalize on this Pokémon GO event, consider the following steps:

Assess Your Collection: Inventory your Pokémon card collection, paying close attention to any Lugia cards, especially rare variants like the Lugia GX from Lost Thunder.

Evaluate Condition: Carefully examine the condition of your Lugia cards. Look for signs of wear, such as scratches, dents, or off-center printing. Use MasterGrade's centering tool for an objective assessment.

Consider Grading: If you believe your Lugia card is in excellent condition, research the different grading companies (PSA, BGS, CGC) and their respective fees.

Decision Tree:

Is the card in near-mint or better condition?

Yes: Proceed to condition evaluation.

No: Consider selling as an ungraded card.

Does the card have good centering, clean surfaces, and sharp edges?

Yes: Submit for grading.

No: Re-evaluate the potential grade and its impact on value.

Monitor Market Prices: Keep a close eye on online marketplaces and auction sites to track the value of Lugia cards. Look for trends and identify potential selling opportunities.

Track Your Collection's Value: Use a collection tracker to monitor the changing values of your cards as the Pokémon GO event unfolds.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

The Pokémon card market is dynamic, and events like the GO Pass and GO Pass Deluxe can trigger rapid price fluctuations. By staying informed and taking proactive steps, you can maximize the value of your collection.

Before you invest in grading, remember to use MasterGrade's free AI grader to get a preliminary assessment of your card's condition. This will help you make an informed decision about whether or not to submit it for professional grading. Ready to get started? Check out our pricing page for more information on our grading services.