Thanks to the coronavirus outbreak, getting out into the world to play Pokémon Go has become more complicated, but the launch of the game's Battle League should help those trainers now stuck at home. The main premise of Pokémon Go is to have players venture outside to explore their towns and cities. Much of the game's appeal is in how it has brought players together in real life, thanks to the common goal of "catching 'em all."

Unfortunately, though, the recent COVID-19 outbreak has put many such public gatherings on hold. Many events have been canceled, including many cons and gaming events such as E3. As of this week, the CDC has recommended that people stay away from gatherings that include 50 people or more and are encouraging "social distancing" to help in slowing the spread of the virus. This recommendation extends to people casually getting together to play Pokémon Go, as well as to official Pokémon Go events, such as community days.

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The good news is that Pokémon Go players still have something to look forward to. The Pokémon Go Battle League officially started on March 13, and it's the perfect way for players to have something to do while they're stuck at home. Trainers can now take on other trainers to earn in-game rewards. According to Pokemon GO Hub, Niantic also has some special bonuses planned for the launch of Battle League, including special features, spawns and bonuses. Battle League includes more fighting-type Pokémon in the wild, along with bonus Stardust. The first season of Battle League will run from March 13 through March 16, with further seasons arriving later.

Pokemon Go Ferroseed

Pokémon Go has received other updates, too. Recently, Niantic began making other changes to the game, likely because of the situation with COVID-19 and players stuck indoors. Raids with legendary Pokémon Cobalion and Lugia are extended, spawn rates are now higher and Incense costs less and lasts twice as long. These changes did not come as a surprise, especially as the world seems to be prepping itself for quarantine, leaving Pokémon Go players in the lurch and forced to play at home.

Although Pokémon Go has done a lot to bring players together in the real world, for now, players will have to be content with meeting up in the virtual world. Battle League allows every trainer to interact with other trainers, and will, hopefully, give bored Pokémon Go players an outlet for entertainment.

Next: Pokemon Go: All Tasks & Rewards for March 2020

Source: Pokemon GO Hub