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In the vast world of Pokémon, certain creatures are so rare they are spoken of only in whispers and legends. These are the Mythical Pokémon, a unique group often confused with their Legendary counterparts. Unlike the mighty Legendaries you can encounter on your journey, Mythicals are ghosts of the Pokémon world, appearing only during special events or to the most dedicated trainers.

Many players wonder exactly how many Mythical Pokémon exist and what makes them so special. As of 2026, the list has grown to include over 20 of these elusive beings, each with its own unique lore and method of acquisition. This guide provides a complete list of all Mythical Pokémon and offers expert strategies for adding them to your Pokédex, particularly in Pokémon GO.

Part 1: What Defines a Mythical Pokémon?

Mythical Pokémon are an exceptionally rare subset of Pokémon that are incredibly difficult to obtain. In the main series games, they are typically distributed only through special, limited-time events, rather than being encountered through normal gameplay. This exclusivity is what primarily separates them from most Legendary Pokémon.

These creatures are often shrouded in mystery and are subjects of the Pokémon world's myths and legends. You won't find all legendary and mythical Pokémon just by exploring; catching a Mythical is a true badge of honor. In Pokémon GO, they are usually the final reward for completing extensive Special Research questlines, making their acquisition a significant achievement.

Part 2: The Complete List of All Mythical Pokémon by Generation

The total number of Pokémon species is now over 1,000, but only a small fraction hold the Mythical status. Below is a comprehensive mythical Pokémon list, categorized by the generation they were introduced in. Each generation has added new and exciting Mythicals to the lore.

Part 3: Detailed Look at Key Mythical Pokémon

While every Mythical is special, some have played a more significant role in the games, movies, and lore. Here's a closer look at some of the most famous legendary and mythical Pokémon.

Mew, Celebi, and Jirachi

Mew: The original Mythical, this Psychic-type Pokémon is believed to contain the genetic DNA of every single Pokémon. Its playful and curious nature belies its incredible power. In early games, Mew was the subject of many rumors, believed to be hiding under a truck near the S.S. Anne.

Celebi: Known as the "Voice of the Forest," Celebi is a Psychic/Grass-type with the ability to travel through time. It is said that Celebi only appears in times of peace, leaving behind thriving plant life wherever it goes. It is the guardian of Ilex Forest in the Johto region.

Jirachi: This Steel/Psychic-type Pokémon is known as the Wish Pokémon. It sleeps for a thousand years, awakening for only seven days. During this week, it is said to have the power to grant any wish written on the notes attached to its head. Capturing Jirachi is incredibly rare, often requiring special distribution events.

Deoxys, Darkrai, and Arceus

Deoxys: An alien Pokémon born from a virus exposed to a laser, Deoxys has a unique molecular structure that allows it to change into four different formes: Normal, Attack, Defense, and Speed. This Psychic-type legendary mythical Pokémon is a formidable opponent with its versatile stats.

Darkrai: Known as the Pitch-Black Pokémon, Darkrai is a Dark-type that represents the new moon. It has the power to inhabit dreams and cause endless nightmares, though it does so defensively, not out of malice. It is famously associated with Cresselia, its counterpart who brings pleasant dreams.

Arceus: Often referred to as "The Original One," Arceus is a Normal-type Pokémon credited with shaping the entire Pokémon universe. According to legend, it hatched from an egg in a realm of nothingness and then created the world. Its ability, Multitype, allows it to change its type when holding a specific plate, making it one of the most versatile Pokémon in existence.

Meltan, Melmetal, and Zarude

Meltan & Melmetal: Introduced in Pokémon GO, Meltan is a curious Steel-type Pokémon whose body is made of liquid metal. It is the only Mythical Pokémon capable of evolution. By combining 400 Meltan Candies in Pokémon GO, it evolves into the powerful Melmetal, a massive and imposing creature.

Marshadow: A unique Fighting/Ghost-type, Marshadow is known for its ability to travel through shadows unnoticed. It can mimic the movements and power of others by sinking into their shadow, growing stronger as it does. It was officially revealed in 2017 for Pokémon Sun and Moon.

Zarude: A Dark/Grass-type Rogue Monkey Pokémon from Pokémon Sword and Shield. Zarude lives in packs deep within dense forests. It is fiercely aggressive and can grow vines from its body, which it uses for healing and swinging through trees. Its Dada form, wearing a pink cape, is a nod to its role in the movie *Secrets of the Jungle*.

Part 4: Proven Strategies to Catch Mythical Pokémon

Catching Mythical Pokémon requires patience, dedication, and sometimes being in the right place at the right time. Unlike standard catches, these creatures are tied to specific game mechanics and events.

1. Step 1 Complete Special Research Tasks

   In Pokémon GO, this is the primary method. Professor Willow will assign you multi-stage research tasks. Completing all stages of questlines like "A Mythical Discovery" for Mew or "A Ripple in Time" for Celebi will lead to a guaranteed encounter with that Mythical Pokémon.

2. Step 2 Participate in Limited-Time Events

   Keep a close eye on official Pokémon announcements. Events like Pokémon GO Fest or anniversaries often feature new Mythical Pokémon releases or provide opportunities to catch ones you may have missed. These are time-sensitive, so active participation is key.

3. Step 3 Utilize Mystery Gifts in Core Games

   For players of the console games (like Sword & Shield or Scarlet & Violet), Mythical Pokémon are almost exclusively distributed via the Mystery Gift feature. This often involves entering a code shared online or connecting to the internet during a specific distribution window.

4. Step 4 Explore Different Locations for Certain Tasks

   Some research tasks require you to visit specific types of locations or spin new PokéStops. If you live in an area with limited access, this can be challenging. Exploring new areas is crucial. For trainers who face geographical limitations, tools can help simulate movement to reach these required locations without physically traveling.

If you need to access different in-game locations to complete research or participate in regional events, a reliable location tool can be invaluable. For instance, Dr.Fone - Virtual Location allows you to safely set your device's GPS to anywhere in the world, helping you catch location-specific Pokémon and complete tasks from home.

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Conclusion

Mythical Pokémon represent the pinnacle of rarity and dedication in the Pokémon world. They are not just powerful creatures but symbols of a trainer's commitment to the game. By understanding their unique status and staying updated on special events and research tasks, you can successfully add these legendary mythical Pokémon to your collection. Whether through diligent research in Pokémon GO or by using tools to overcome geographical barriers, the thrill of catching a Mythical is an experience unlike any other.