Pokémon Go, the popular augmented reality game developed by Niantic, has been a global phenomenon since its release in 2016. One of the key features that sets it apart from other games is its team-based gameplay, where players can join one of three teams: Mystic, Valor, or Instinct. However, many players have wondered if it’s possible to change teams in Pokémon Go. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Pokémon Go teams, explore the reasons why you might want to change teams, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to do so.
Understanding Pokémon Go Teams
Before we dive into the process of changing teams, it’s essential to understand the role of teams in Pokémon Go. When you first start playing the game, you’re asked to choose a team, which determines your affiliation with other players. The three teams are:
- Mystic (blue)
- Valor (red)
- Instinct (yellow)
Each team has its own unique characteristics, and players often choose a team based on their personal preferences or the values they represent. For example, Mystic is often associated with wisdom and knowledge, while Valor is seen as a team that values courage and strength.
Why Change Teams in Pokémon Go?
There are several reasons why you might want to change teams in Pokémon Go. Here are a few:
- Personal preference: You might have chosen a team initially, but later realized that you identify more with another team’s values or characteristics.
- Community: You might have joined a team, but found that the community is not as active or supportive as you’d like. Changing teams can give you access to a new community and new friends.
- Gameplay strategy: Depending on your playstyle, you might find that another team’s strategy better suits your needs. For example, if you’re a player who focuses on battling, you might prefer to join a team that’s more competitive.
Can You Change Teams in Pokémon Go?
The answer is yes, you can change teams in Pokémon Go, but there are some limitations and requirements. Here’s what you need to know:
- Team Medallion: To change teams, you’ll need to purchase a Team Medallion from the in-game shop. The Team Medallion costs 1,000 PokéCoins, which is the game’s virtual currency.
- Level requirement: You’ll need to be at least level 5 to change teams.
- Limitations: You can only change teams once every 365 days. This means that if you change teams, you’ll need to wait a year before you can change again.
How to Change Teams in Pokémon Go
Changing teams in Pokémon Go is a relatively straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Open the Pokémon Go app and navigate to the shop.
- Scroll down to the “Items” section and select the Team Medallion.
- Purchase the Team Medallion using 1,000 PokéCoins.
- Once you’ve purchased the Team Medallion, navigate to the “Settings” menu.
- Select “Team” and choose the team you want to join.
- Confirm your team change by selecting “Change Team.”
What to Expect After Changing Teams
After changing teams, you’ll notice a few changes in the game:
- New team affiliation: You’ll now be affiliated with your new team, and your profile will reflect this change.
- New team logo: Your team logo will change to reflect your new team affiliation.
- Community changes: You might notice changes in the community, such as new friends or a different team chat.
Conclusion
Changing teams in Pokémon Go is a significant decision, but it’s not impossible. By understanding the requirements and limitations, you can make an informed decision about whether changing teams is right for you. Remember to consider your personal preferences, community, and gameplay strategy before making a change. With this guide, you’ll be well on your way to joining a new team and experiencing the game in a whole new way.
Final Tips and Reminders
- Think carefully before changing teams: Remember that you can only change teams once every 365 days, so make sure you’re making the right decision for you.
- Consider the community: Joining a new team can give you access to a new community, but it’s essential to research and understand the community before making a change.
- Don’t forget to purchase the Team Medallion: You’ll need to purchase the Team Medallion from the in-game shop to change teams.
By following these tips and reminders, you’ll be well on your way to changing teams in Pokémon Go and experiencing the game in a whole new way.
Can I change teams in Pokémon Go after initially choosing one?
Pokémon Go allows players to change teams, but there are certain limitations and requirements. To change teams, you must first reach level 38 and then purchase a Team Medallion from the in-game shop. The Team Medallion costs 1,000 PokéCoins, which can be earned through gameplay or purchased with real money.
Once you have the Team Medallion, go to the shop, select the item, and choose the team you want to switch to. Keep in mind that you can only change teams once every 365 days, so choose wisely. Changing teams will not affect your Pokémon, progress, or friendships, but it will change your affiliation and the gyms you can interact with.
What are the benefits of changing teams in Pokémon Go?
Changing teams in Pokémon Go can have several benefits. For example, if you’re in an area dominated by one team, switching to the opposing team can give you more opportunities to take gyms and participate in battles. Additionally, changing teams can also give you a fresh start and new challenges, which can help keep the game exciting and engaging.
Another benefit of changing teams is the ability to participate in events and challenges with your new team. Some events and challenges are team-specific, so switching teams can give you access to new content and rewards. However, keep in mind that changing teams will not give you an advantage in terms of gameplay mechanics or rewards.
Will changing teams affect my Pokémon or progress?
No, changing teams in Pokémon Go will not affect your Pokémon or progress. Your Pokémon will remain the same, and their stats, levels, and moves will not be changed. Additionally, your progress, including your level, experience points, and badges, will also remain intact.
Changing teams will only change your affiliation and the gyms you can interact with. You will no longer be able to interact with gyms controlled by your old team, but you will be able to interact with gyms controlled by your new team. This means you can still participate in battles, take gyms, and earn rewards with your new team.
Can I change teams for free in Pokémon Go?
No, changing teams in Pokémon Go requires a Team Medallion, which costs 1,000 PokéCoins. While you can earn PokéCoins through gameplay, purchasing a Team Medallion is not free. However, if you’re willing to wait, you can earn enough PokéCoins through gameplay to purchase a Team Medallion without spending real money.
It’s worth noting that some special events or promotions may offer free Team Medallions or discounts on the item. However, these events are rare and usually require specific conditions or achievements. In general, changing teams requires a Team Medallion, which must be purchased with PokéCoins.
How often can I change teams in Pokémon Go?
You can only change teams once every 365 days in Pokémon Go. This means that if you change teams, you will not be able to change teams again for at least a year. This limitation is in place to prevent players from constantly switching teams and to encourage team loyalty.
While you can only change teams once a year, you can still participate in gameplay and events with your current team. If you’re unhappy with your team, you can wait for the cooldown period to end and then change teams again. However, keep in mind that changing teams frequently can be costly, as you’ll need to purchase a new Team Medallion each time.
Will changing teams affect my friendships in Pokémon Go?
No, changing teams in Pokémon Go will not affect your friendships. Your friendships will remain intact, and you can still trade Pokémon, send gifts, and participate in co-op gameplay with your friends, regardless of their team affiliation.
However, keep in mind that changing teams may affect your interactions with friends who are on the opposing team. For example, you may no longer be able to participate in battles together or take gyms as a team. But your friendships will not be affected, and you can still interact with your friends in other ways.
Can I change teams on multiple devices in Pokémon Go?
If you play Pokémon Go on multiple devices, changing teams on one device will change your team affiliation on all devices. This is because your team affiliation is tied to your Pokémon Go account, not your device.
When you change teams, the change will be reflected on all devices connected to your account. This means you don’t need to change teams on each device individually, but you should be aware that changing teams on one device will affect your gameplay on all devices.