Pokemon Mew and Manaphy event: How to download 'mythical' legendary critters via mystery gift

Nintendo and The Pokemon Company have delivered a double whammy of Poké-goodness for June, thanks to both a Manaphy and a second-chance Mew distribution event. The two 'mythical' Pokémon are available to download on Pokémon X and Y and Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire in the UK.

While it is great to see the cutesy Water-type Manaphy appear from the tall grass as part of the franchises' year-long giveaway - all in celebration of its 20<sup>th Anniversary – it's Mew that will likely get the most attention for those who missed out in February – although only European and Australian players are able to grab the 151<sup>st Pokemon this time around.

Currently, the Mew giveaway appears to have no set end date, while the worldwide Manaphy event definitively ends on 24 June 2016 to make way for the next rare 'mon – the adorable Grass-type hedgehog Shaymin.

Unlike the Darkrai event last month, you don't even need to leave your home for these pair, so grab your Nintendo 3DS and follow these steps:

Both Pokémon will be pre-levelled all the way to level 100 upon collection. Discerning trainers may want to save before picking up their new best friends, so you can reset until you get a nature and IV spread that fits your Pokémon's planned build. For those interested in the competitive battling with the mythical pair, here are a few tips to help you best any rival trainers.

Mew best nature, IVs, moves and ability

This classic generation one stalwart is hampered slightly by its single-typing, yet its across-the-board base stats – each at 100 – leave it open to a number of viable builds.

It is also unique in that it can learn every TM/HM move, which again provides multiple options for how your Mew can shape up in battle.

In short, tailor your IVs, EVs and nature to your playing style, but be aware that defensive builds are ill-advised due to its crippling Dark, Ghost and Bug weaknesses. Mew's Synchronise ability is a nice bonus in any case, as it inflicts Burn, Poison or Paralyze should it befall one of these status effects itself.

Manaphy best nature, IVs, moves, ability and Phione breeding

Manaphy shares Mew's 100 base stat spread, but differentiates itself with its singular Water-tying and Hydration ability, which cures all status effects during battle when there is rain present.

The tasselled blue bomber also hits like a truck thanks to the move Tail Glow, a buff move that raises Manaphy's special attack by a terrifying three stages. Stick Scald or Surf on as Manaphy's go-to STAB move and round the four moves out with Rain Dance (unless carried by a partner) and coverage moves such as Psychic, Ice Beam or Energy Ball.

Rest is also an option if you are taking advantage of the Hydration heals, but be aware that any kind of attacking build relies on a Timid nature and EVs/IVs almost entirely dedicated to the Speed and Special Attack stats.

The aquatic Pokémon's final trick is a bit of a strange one. While Manaphy doesn't evolve from or into any other forms, it can actually be bred with a Ditto to produce Phione – a baby Manaphy that never evolves. One more for the collection.

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