Pokemon GO trainers, mark your calendars for a fiery and frosty encounter. The legendary Bug/Steel Pokemon, Genesect, is making a highly anticipated return to five-star raids in January 2026 as part of the Precious Paths season. This comeback brings a exciting twist: trainers will encounter two distinct versions of the Paleozoic Pokemon – Burn Drive and Chill Drive Genesect.
Understanding the Two Drives: Fire vs. Ice Techno Blast
The core difference between the two raid bosses lies in their signature move, Techno Blast, which changes type based on the special drive Genesect holds. This mechanic directly influences your battle strategy.
Burn Drive Genesect wields a Fire-type Techno Blast and can also know Flamethrower. Visually, it sports a distinctive red cannon. Conversely, Chill Drive Genesect unleashes an Ice-type Techno Blast and may use Ice Beam, with its cannon appearing in light blue and white. Both forms share the same pool of fast moves—Fury Cutter and Metal Claw—and other charged moves like X-Scissor and Magnet Bomb.
Raid Stats, Counters, and Battle Strategy
Despite its formidable 252 Attack stat and raid boss CP of 47,836, Genesect presents a clear path to victory for prepared trainers. Its Bug/Steel typing gives it a double weakness to Fire-type attacks, making this one of the more accessible Tier 5 raids for smaller groups or seasoned players.
A perfect, 100% IV Genesect will be caught at 1,916 CP (or 2,395 CP if weather-boosted by Rain or Snow). Both drive variants have a chance to be shiny, with standard raid shiny odds. Remember, caught Genesect can be transferred but cannot be traded.
The best counters are overwhelmingly Fire-type Pokemon. Leading the charge are Mega Evolutions like Mega Blaziken and Mega Charizard Y, followed by powerful shadows and legendaries. Here is a concise list of top performers:
- Mega Blaziken with Fire Spin and Blast Burn
- Mega Charizard Y with Fire Spin and Blast Burn
- Shadow Heatran with Fire Spin and Magma Storm
- Shadow Chandelure with Fire Spin and Overheat
- Reshiram with Fire Fang and Fusion Flare
Other excellent options include Blacephalon, standard Heatran, Shadow Moltres, and Chandelure. If you lack these, strong Fire-types like Darmanitan, Volcarona, and Emboar are solid backups.
Execution and Catch Phase Tips
For the raid itself, two well-equipped trainers can defeat Genesect, though a trio makes the win more consistent and comfortable. Ambitious solo players might succeed in Sunny weather with maxed-out counters. Avoid raiding in Rainy or Snowy weather, as these conditions boost Genesect's charged moves. During battle, using Fire Spin helps build energy quickly, and dodging the powerful Techno Blast is crucial. In large groups, splitting into smaller lobbies can maximize Premier Ball rewards for all.
After victory, employ the Circle Lock Technique with Golden Razz Berries to secure Excellent throws. If you encounter a shiny Genesect, it's a guaranteed catch, so feel free to use a Pinap Berry for extra candy. Be prepared for resource-intensive battles; stock up on Max Potions and Revives if you plan to farm multiple raids for candy and XL Candy.
This January 2026 event offers a prime opportunity to add these unique, drive-equipped versions of Genesect to your Pokedex. Assemble your best Fire-type team, coordinate with fellow trainers, and get ready to conquer these prehistoric powerhouses.
