Pokémon GO completely changed the way we interact with mobile games, getting us out and about to explore the world while tracking down virtual critters. But thanks to creative updates, it has grown into a very different game since its 2016 launch. Here are just a few of the reasons we keep refilling our Pokédex:
It’s overflowing with creatures
The essence of Pokémon GO remains the same: roam around town to find and capture little digital creatures – and some big ones. But if you thought you’d caught ’em all, you’ve got another think coming.
There are hundreds of Pokémon to capture, from your garden-variety Weedles to limited-time legendary beasts such as Dialga. New generations of Pokémon are introduced roughly twice a year, ensuring you always have more beauties to collect.
It’s good for you!
Pokémon GO remains a brilliant excuse to move around – and you don’t even need to be playing the game to track the benefits.
The Adventure Sync option lets you record steps and hatch Pokémon eggs by linking up with your iPhone’s Health app. Your Pokémon gain candy this way too, buffing them up for their next encounter. You do the walking, they do the talking!
It lets you take on the world
Catching Pokémon is great fun, but the beasts are built for battle – and to prove your mettle you can now challenge other trainers.
Pokémon GO’s upgraded battle system lets you test your team’s might against real-time competition. Winning matches not only nets you cred, it also doles out stardust, special items and progress towards earning medals. Think your squad is the best? Try the Battle League, a multitiered seasonal mode where you can earn loot and rewards by challenging players online to 3v3 duels.