During our preview of Pokémon GO trainer battles, Niantic revealed a slew of new features that included three leagues, 3 vs. 3 combat, and the ability for players to challenge nearby opponents, long-distance friends, and even train with Team Leader A. I. PVP battles are expected to launch later this month.
Niantic shared with us new details on the newly announced Trainer Battles feature that will be rolling out to Pokémon GO worldwide later in December. Players will soon be able to participate in type-based three-on-three trainer battles with friends, nearby opponents, and artificial intelligence Team Leaders.
To commence a battle, trainers can challenge nearby opponents using the new Battle Code invitation system. This is done by looking under the Nearby tab and then physically scanning their QR code. A screen will then pop up prompting the opposing trainer with “Let’s do it!” or “No, thanks.”
Players can challenge online friends remotely as long as they’ve reached the Ultra friendship level or higher. Battling can also increase your friendship level with other trainers.
A. I. Team Leaders are available for Solo Battles as well, which may be a suitable option for younger trainers since Niantic has said that you must be older than 13 years old to participate in Trainer Battles.
Battles are not turn-based but unfold in real time, requiring trainers to tap on their screens to launch Fast Attacks that power up Charged Attacks.
