Pokemon GO introduces new feature that lets players party together

Developer Niantic has just announced Party Play, a new feature that will allow Pokemon GO players to party together in the same way World of Warcraft players do when they want to take on bigger challenges.

As Niantic points out, Party Play will allow up to four trainers (level 15 and above) to adventure together and complete challenges, all in a single shared gaming experience.

Players will even be able to see each other’s avatars on their in-game maps. According to Niantic, Party Play will begin rolling out worldwide today, so whether you’re using an Android or iOS device, you should update your game to start using the new feature.

To throw a party, simply open the game and go to your trainer profile. Next, tap the new Party tab and choose Create to get a digital or QR code that you can share with up to three nearby coaches.

If you just want to join a party, things are just as simple. Open the game, go to your Coach profile, tap the new Party tab, choose Join Party, then scan the host’s QR code or manually enter a numeric code.

Once the group is formed, players will be able to choose the group challenge they wish to take on. These can focus on rotating PokeStops, fighting raids, capturing Pokémon, and much more. Obviously, for each completed Party Challenge, players will receive in-game rewards.

It’s also worth mentioning that when a group challenges a raid, they will gain a new bonus called Party Power, which doubles the damage of their next charged attack and charges with each quick attack.

What’s really disappointing is that you can only join a party with other players “nearby”, but that’s probably because Niantic wants to encourage Trainers to go outside and play. Party Play would not work with “distant” friends, hence the need to be “nearby” to join a party.