In Pokémon GO you now have the opportunity to perform Power-Ups at PokéStops. We from MeinMMO have taken a look at what this new feature is, how it works, and what benefits it brings you.
What kind of feature is it? The gameplay of Pokémon GO consists of trainers going outside and exploring special locations. These noteworthy points are marked in the game by PokéStops and gyms.
As an additional incentive to visit these locations, players receive a small bonus in the form of various items when spinning the photo discs at the respective stops or gyms. With a new feature in the game, these PokéStops and gyms can now be leveled up.
Already in October, Niantic began a first test phase of the PokéStop feature in certain regions of the world. As of December 8th, the new feature is now available to us as well (via pokemongolive.com).
How do Power-Ups work at PokéStops?
To perform a Power-Up at a PokéStop or gym, you need to scan the respective location. You can do this with the AR feature in the game. We will explain in detail what you need to click:
- Click on the respective PokéStop or gym that you want to level up.
- On the right side of the screen, you will see an icon with a “+” that you need to select.
- Now a corresponding scale will open around the image of the respective photo disc that shows you the progress of your Power-Up. Below it, there is a display of the respective level of the stop as well as a green button labeled “Scan PokéStop”. You need to click this button now.
- After that, your camera will open, and you can film the PokéStop or gym. Activate the recording and walk around the respective object from a bit of distance.
- Once you have scanned the location, you can upload your recording. You can select either “Upload now” or “Upload later”. As soon as your scan has been uploaded, your progress will be counted accordingly.
Once you have performed the Power-Up at your PokéStop or gym, you will recognize it by the visual representation of the PokéStop. It appears larger and has, depending on the level, one, two, or three horizontal bars. Moreover, you can also view your progress and remaining time by clicking on the respective stop.
How many scans do you need for a level-up?
In total, PokéStops and gyms can be powered up to level 3. As per the overview by LegendsLima on Twitter, you need a different number of scans depending on the level. This Power-Up lasts for different lengths of time as well.
Accordingly, the following scans are needed:
- Level 1 (lasts 48 hours): 5 scans
- Level 2 (lasts an additional 12 hours): 10 scans
- Level 3 (lasts an additional 12 hours): 25 scans
Who can perform the scans? The PokéStops and gyms can be scanned by all trainers who have reached at least level 20.
How many scans are possible per trainer? You can perform a total of up to 200 daily scans. A PokéStop or gym can also be scanned multiple times by the same trainer.
What benefits do the Power-Ups bring?
Once you have scanned and powered up your PokéStops and gyms, all trainers receive additional items when spinning the photo disc. From level 2, you can also look forward to bonus hearts with your buddy.
If the location has even reached level 3, you will either receive 3 premium raid balls if it is a gym or additional spawns at a PokéStop.
Additionally, you can connect these scans with completing your AR tasks in Pokémon GO. These also reward you with special items or even an encounter with a Pokémon.
What do you think of the new Power-Up feature? Have you tried it out yet? Or would you rather not deal with the AR scans and forego the bonuses? Feel free to write us your opinions and experiences here on MeinMMO in the comments and exchange ideas with other trainers.
In the coming weeks, there is still a lot planned in Pokémon GO. We will show you, which events await you in December and which are particularly worthwhile.
