Pokémon GO's gyms are central to the game's competitive aspect, offering a chance to showcase your powerful Pokémon and earn valuable rewards. Securing and holding a Gym requires strategy, strong Pokémon, and a bit of luck. This guide will cover everything you need to know to claim and maintain control of a Gym.
What are Pokémon GO Gyms?
Pokémon GO Gyms are in-game locations where players can battle each other's Pokémon to claim and control them. These locations are usually represented by real-world landmarks, making the game even more engaging. Gyms are divided into teams: Team Mystic (blue), Team Valor (red), and Team Instinct (yellow). You choose a team once you reach level 5, and you can only place your Pokémon in gyms controlled by your team.
How to Take Over a Pokémon GO Gym
To take over a Gym, you'll need a few things:
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A high-level Pokémon: The stronger your Pokémon, the better your chances of success. Focus on Pokémon with high CP (Combat Power) and effective moves against the defending Pokémon. Consider type matchups; a Fire-type Pokémon will struggle against a Water-type, for example.
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Multiple Pokémon: Taking down a Gym often requires multiple battles. Bring a team of Pokémon with varied types and strengths to adapt to different opponents.
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Strategic moves: Utilize your Pokémon's charged attacks wisely. Don't waste them on weak opponents; save them for the toughest battles. Learning the attack animations and timing can also give you an edge.
Taking over an empty Gym is easy; simply place one of your Pokémon there. However, taking over a Gym controlled by another team requires a battle. Tap on the Gym, select your team, and battle the defending Pokémon one by one. Once you defeat all the defending Pokémon, the Gym will become unclaimed. Then you can place your Pokémon to claim the Gym for your team.
How to Train at a Friendly Gym
Once you control a Gym, you can train your Pokémon there. Battling your own Pokémon at a friendly Gym increases your Pokémon's motivation. Motivation determines a Pokémon's CP when defending a Gym. Higher motivation means higher CP and better defense. Training a friendly Gym can keep your Pokémon at their best!
What Happens When Your Pokémon Defends a Gym?
When your Pokémon defends a Gym, it earns you valuable in-game rewards:
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PokéCoins: The longer your Pokémon holds a Gym, the more PokéCoins you will receive. The amount of PokéCoins depends on the number of Pokémon you have defending a Gym.
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Prestige: Gyms have a prestige level. Winning battles lowers the opposing team's prestige, while losing battles lowers your team's prestige. When the prestige reaches zero, you can take over the Gym.
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Stardust and Candy: You'll also earn Stardust and Candy for your Pokémon when they're defending a Gym, providing valuable resources for leveling up and evolving your Pokémon.
How Long Can Your Pokémon Stay in a Gym?
There's no set limit on how long your Pokémon can stay in a Gym. However, your Pokémon's motivation will decrease over time, lowering their CP. Once the motivation is gone, your Pokémon will be knocked out. You can also be pushed out by other players.
How to Increase Your Pokémon's Motivation in a Gym
You can increase your Pokémon's motivation by visiting the Gym and battling your own Pokémon there. Alternatively, other players on your team can also visit and battle with their Pokémon, boosting the motivation. Teamwork is key to maintaining control of a Gym for an extended period!
What are the benefits of controlling a Gym?
Controlling a Gym is a rewarding aspect of Pokémon GO. It lets you show your dominance, earn PokéCoins, gain Stardust and Candy, and contribute to your team's overall score.
By following these tips and strategies, you'll be well on your way to claiming and maintaining your own gyms in Pokémon GO! Remember to adapt your strategy based on your opponents and the types of Pokémon available. Good luck, Trainer!
