Pokemon Go fans might be wondering how the current Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic will be affecting the game. After all, it requires heading out into the world and often congregating in groups – something many countries are suggesting you don't do.
With that in mind, Niantic are taking some steps to make things a little bit easier for Pokemon Go players.
Regardless, we at Gfinity would recommend you take the right precautions whether you're playing or not. You can find the World Health Organisations guidelines here.
Be sure to watch our wide variety of Pokemon content here!
Pokemon Go Changes Due to Coronavirus
In a brief blog post, Niantic confirmed that the Abra Community Day event has been delayed and that a special bundle of Incense will be available. See below for the full update.
'Trainers,
The following events have been canceled, postponed, or changed.
Abra Community Day: This event has been postponed.We will also be making the following changes to Pokémon GO which are effective starting now until further notice.
A one-time purchase bundle of 30 Incense for 1 PokéCoin. Incense will also last for one hour.1/2 Hatch Distance when Eggs are placed into Incubators during this time periodPokéStops will now drop Gifts more frequentlyPokémon habitats will increase and more Pokémon will be appearing in the wildBe sure to follow us on social media, opt in to receive push notifications, and subscribe to our emails to stay updated.'
In another post, the developers have confirmed Cobalion and Lugia raids will last longer – hopefully to allow players a greater chance of catching them. Here's the updated timings.
Cobalion will be available to challenge in Raid Battles from Tuesday, March 17, 2020, at 1:00 p.m. to Monday, March 23, 2020, at 1:00 p.m. PDT (GMT −7). You’ll also have a chance to encounter Cobalion as a GO Battle League reward encounter during this time!Lugia will be available to challenge in Raid Battles from Tuesday, March 24, 2020, at 1:00 p.m. to Tuesday, March 31, 2020, at 1:00 p.m. PDT (GMT −7). You’ll also have a chance to encounter Lugia as a GO Battle League reward encounter during this time!Features
Cobalion will know the event-exclusive attack Sacred SwordLugia will know the event-exclusive attack AeroblastIf you are lucky, you might encounter Shiny Cobalion and Shiny Lugia!
Whether you're playing or taking a break, be sure to stay safe.