The latest in a string of new updates for Pokémon GO will see a hugely significant change to the game's signature Raid Battles, as developer Niantic does its bit to help players stay safe at home during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
In a blog post, Niantic founder John Hanke has shared the company's vision for transforming its real-world, outdoors-focused games into titles that can also be enjoyed - and be just as innovative - indoors. He says, "you’ll soon be able to team up with friends and take on Raid Battles together in Pokémon GO from the comfort of home," a change that is designed to help players stay in touch when they're unable to meet in real life.
Raid Battles have become one of the app's key features over the years, with players flocking to real-life locations to team up and defeat powerful Pokémon in the wild. Needing to get out there and find other players to mix with has been one of the game's key ingredients, so this is arguably the biggest change we've seen for the game yet.
In the same blog post, Hanke also notes that improvements are planned for the game's Adventure Sync feature - which should help it to more accurately track indoor movement and activities - and that Niantic is "re-imagining what it means" to participate in live events, with "an entirely new way to enjoy Pokémon GO Fest" in the works.
[source nianticlabs.com, via eurogamer.net]
Comments 13
The money needs to keep rolling in.
Yeah, because outdoors activity is no longer viable or profitable.
Pokémon Go is actually incredibly fortunate that they launched Go Battle League when they did, or there would not be a game to play.
Great! Raids are a great way to get XP, so this should be good when it's rolled out!
Every day is leg day.
Please add me I'm active every day and need more people to friend level with: 4873 0999 5295
Just add the joystick already
It's almost a normal Pokémon game now.
Anyone need a South African friend? You can add me: 5980 1781 0755
Crazy how much work they put into this game. It's the best mobile game ever msde,
When will they rename it to Pokémon Don't Go?
I think it's good they're doing this.
I just deleted this the other day as i realised there was very little to get from the game when going outside is so limited.
But if things like the wed and sat raid hour/events can be done from home, then I'll reinstall it right away
Why are people so salty about this? I think it's very good they are altering the game to meet current circumstances.
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