Pokémon GO's latest update is just around the corner, and it's the most substantial update to the game yet.
Developer Niantic has confirmed today that the "buddy system" that was recently discovered within the game's files is indeed the next update coming to Pokémon GO.
"The next addition to Pokémon GO will be Buddy Pokémon," Niantic writes. "You will be able to pick your favorite Pokémon from your collection to become your buddy, opening up unique in-game rewards and experiences. Buddy Pokémon will appear alongside your Trainer avatar on your profile screen, adding helpful bonuses such as awarding Candy for walking together. You'll also have the ability to change your Buddy Pokémon at any time."
This opens up a whole new world of possibilities for players. For starters, players can now improve some of their more rare or hard to find Pokémon over time using the game's candy mechanic. Candy is used to both increase a Pokémon's CP (combat power) and evolve them. Currently, candy for a particular Pokémon can only be obtained through catching that same Pokémon again, or by transferring that same Pokémon to Professor Willow.
With this upcoming update, players will be able to earn candy for a Pokémon of their choice simply through spending time walking with that particular pocket monster. Walk with your starter still unevolved Charmander enough, and you'll have that Charizard in no time!
It's currently unclear if candy will be the only reward for using the new buddy system. Niantic mentions "unique in-game rewards" and says walking with a buddy adds "helpful bonuses such as candy," which leaves the door open for other rewards as well.
Niantic didn't say when exactly to expect the update, and only stated that it's "just around the corner." It seems like fans can also expect more significant updates in the fall of this year.
"We've got a lot more in the works this fall," Niantic writes. "Stay tuned here for all the details."
