The much anticipated Trainer Battles feature in Pokemon GO is now rolling out. Niantic is gradually rolling out the functionality, with Trainers level 30 and up currently able to access it. More Trainers should be able to play soon.
Here’s the notice about Trainer Battles going live:
Pokémon GO players have been catching and training Pokémon to take control of Gyms and challenge powerful Raid Bosses, but now they can put their skills to the ultimate test with Pokémon GO Trainer Battles. Now, high-level players can face off against other Trainers in head-to-head matches using teams of three Pokémon. When the match is over, both participants will receive great rewards, including a chance at rare Evolution items like the Sinnoh Stone.
The fast-paced battles take place in real time, and your Pokémon will be able to use both their Fast Attack and Charged Attack moves. You’ll also be able to use Stardust and Candy prior to battle to unlock a bonus Charged Attack for your Pokémon.
Battles aren’t just about who has the toughest Pokémon and the strongest moves. Timing is important, too. If you keep an eye on your opponent’s moves, you may be able to deploy a Protect Shield to save your Pokémon from taking critical damage. But you only have a limited number of Protect Shields before your Pokémon will be left defenseless against big attacks.
To make sure the playing field is even for all competitors, Trainers must compete in the same Trainer Battle League, which determines the highest CP permitted for the participating Pokémon. Those looking for a greater challenge can test their mettle in the Master League, which has no limits to the CP of Pokémon that can battle. Here, winning strategies may revolve around powerful Legendary Pokémon and clever counters.
Trainer Battles have been designed to emphasize strategy, and their rapid pace allows Trainers to squeeze in more battles in a limited time. This will come in especially handy during Pokémon GO’s Community Days, when you’re bound to meet the gaze of multiple potential rivals with whom you’ll feel compelled to battle. Although you’ll normally take on opponents that are nearby, you can also initiate a Trainer Battle with Trainers who you’re Ultra Friends or Best Friends with from any distance.
If you’re looking to improve your Trainer Battle skills, take on team leaders Spark, Candela, and Blanche! You can earn daily rewards when training with a team leader, including Stardust to help power up your Pokémon. You’ll also be working toward earning the Ace Trainer medal!
Train your Pokémon well – they’re bound to be facing off against some powerful opponents soon!
