After video footage from an SXSW demo was leaked online, The Pokémon Company have spilled the beans with some new Pokémon Go information. The app-based game was first announced by the company last year, but up until now there was very little known about the details behind it.
Now we know a little bit more about exactly what we’ll be able to do when Pokémon Go releases at some point later this year. We already knew that the app would let players simulate Pokémon encounters in a VR-like state, but it seems that you’ll be progressing as you gain higher trainer levels through catching more and more Pokémon. As your level increases, so will your chances of encountering rarer and more powerful beasts.
It’s also been confirmed that there will be PokéStops located at popular locations, where you’ll be able to collect more Poké Balls and other items – this will even include eggs that will hatch after you’ve walked certain distances. You’ll also have the chance to evolve some of your Pokémon once you’ve caught enough of a certain species.
Eventually you’ll also be asked to join one of three teams. Once you join a team, you’ll gain the ability to assign Pokémon you’ve caught to empty Gym locations or to a location where a team member has placed one of his or her Pokémon. Like PokéStops, Gyms can be found at real locations in the world. Each player can place only one Pokémon at a particular Gym, so you’re encouraged to work with others on the team to build up a strong defence.
If a Gym is already claimed by another team, you can challenge that Gym using your own Pokémon. Using the Pokémon you’ve caught, you can engage in battle with the defending Pokémon at the Gym to claim control.
This new information was accompanied by some screenshots of Pokémon Go in action – which you can see below – and the announcement that the game will enter a beta in Japan very soon.
