Pokémon Go has taken the world by storm, and one of the most exciting features of the game is the ability to become a PokéStop or Gym. These locations are the lifeblood of the game, providing players with essential items, experience points, and a chance to battle other trainers. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of PokéStop Gyms, exploring what they are, how they’re created, and most importantly, how you can become one.
What are PokéStop Gyms?
PokéStop Gyms are locations in the Pokémon Go game that serve as hubs for players to gather, battle, and collect items. These locations are usually tied to real-world landmarks, such as public art, monuments, or other points of interest. PokéStop Gyms are an essential part of the game, as they provide players with a chance to:
- Collect items, such as Poké Balls, potions, and eggs
- Battle other trainers to claim the Gym for their team
- Earn experience points and level up their trainers
- Interact with other players and join forces to take down challenging Gyms
The History of PokéStop Gyms
PokéStop Gyms were introduced in the early days of Pokémon Go, and they quickly became a central part of the game. Initially, Gyms were simply locations where players could battle other trainers, but over time, they evolved to include additional features, such as the ability to collect items and earn experience points.
In 2017, Niantic, the developers of Pokémon Go, introduced the concept of “Gym Rework,” which revamped the Gym system and introduced new features, such as the ability to spin the Photo Disc at Gyms to collect items. This update also introduced the concept of “Gym Badges,” which allow players to showcase their accomplishments and earn rewards.
How are PokéStop Gyms Created?
PokéStop Gyms are created through a combination of algorithms and human input. Niantic uses a variety of data sources, including:
- Google Maps data
- OpenStreetMap data
- User submissions
to identify potential locations for PokéStop Gyms. These locations are then reviewed by Niantic’s team to ensure they meet certain criteria, such as:
- Being a real-world landmark or point of interest
- Being accessible to the public
- Being safe and suitable for players
Once a location has been identified and reviewed, it’s added to the game as a PokéStop Gym.
The Role of Ingress in PokéStop Gym Creation
Ingress, a previous game developed by Niantic, played a significant role in the creation of PokéStop Gyms. Ingress was a location-based game that encouraged players to explore their surroundings and interact with real-world landmarks. Many of the locations that were identified as “Portals” in Ingress were later converted into PokéStop Gyms in Pokémon Go.
How to Become a PokéStop Gym
Becoming a PokéStop Gym is a challenging and competitive process, but it’s not impossible. Here are the steps you can take to increase your chances of becoming a PokéStop Gym:
Step 1: Identify a Suitable Location
To become a PokéStop Gym, you’ll need to identify a suitable location that meets Niantic’s criteria. This can be a public art installation, a monument, or any other point of interest that’s accessible to the public.
What Makes a Good PokéStop Gym Location?
A good PokéStop Gym location should have the following characteristics:
- Be a real-world landmark or point of interest
- Be accessible to the public
- Be safe and suitable for players
- Have a unique or interesting feature that sets it apart from other locations
Step 2: Submit Your Location
Once you’ve identified a suitable location, you’ll need to submit it to Niantic for review. You can do this through the Pokémon Go app or through the Niantic website.
How to Submit a Location
To submit a location, follow these steps:
- Open the Pokémon Go app and navigate to the “Settings” menu
- Tap on “Report a Location” and select “Suggest a PokéStop or Gym”
- Enter the location’s name and address
- Provide a brief description of the location and why it would make a good PokéStop Gym
- Submit your suggestion
Step 3: Wait for Review
Once you’ve submitted your location, it will be reviewed by Niantic’s team. This can take several weeks or even months, so be patient.
What Happens During the Review Process?
During the review process, Niantic’s team will evaluate your location based on the criteria mentioned earlier. They’ll also review user feedback and ratings to determine whether your location is suitable for a PokéStop Gym.
Tips and Tricks for Becoming a PokéStop Gym
Becoming a PokéStop Gym is a challenging process, but here are some tips and tricks to increase your chances:
- Choose a unique and interesting location. A location that stands out from the crowd is more likely to be selected as a PokéStop Gym.
- Provide detailed and accurate information. Make sure you provide accurate information about your location, including its name, address, and description.
- Encourage user feedback and ratings. Encourage players to visit your location and provide feedback and ratings. This will help Niantic’s team evaluate your location and determine whether it’s suitable for a PokéStop Gym.
- Be patient. The review process can take several weeks or even months, so be patient and don’t get discouraged if your location isn’t selected right away.
Conclusion
Becoming a PokéStop Gym is a challenging and competitive process, but it’s not impossible. By identifying a suitable location, submitting it to Niantic, and waiting for review, you can increase your chances of becoming a PokéStop Gym. Remember to choose a unique and interesting location, provide detailed and accurate information, encourage user feedback and ratings, and be patient. With persistence and dedication, you can become a part of the Pokémon Go community and provide a valuable resource for players.
Final Thoughts
PokéStop Gyms are an essential part of the Pokémon Go game, providing players with a chance to collect items, battle other trainers, and earn experience points. By becoming a PokéStop Gym, you can contribute to the game’s community and provide a valuable resource for players. So, don’t be discouraged if your location isn’t selected right away. Keep trying, and with persistence and dedication, you can become a part of the Pokémon Go community.
| PokéStop Gym Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Real-world landmark or point of interest | The location should be a real-world landmark or point of interest, such as a public art installation, monument, or other point of interest. |
| Accessible to the public | The location should be accessible to the public and safe for players to visit. |
| Unique or interesting feature | The location should have a unique or interesting feature that sets it apart from other locations. |
By following these criteria and tips, you can increase your chances of becoming a PokéStop Gym and contributing to the Pokémon Go community.
What is a PokéStop Gym in Pokémon Go?
A PokéStop Gym is a unique location in Pokémon Go that serves as both a PokéStop and a Gym. As a PokéStop, it allows players to collect items and resources, while as a Gym, it enables players to battle and claim the location for their team. These locations are highly coveted due to their dual functionality and the benefits they provide to players.
PokéStop Gyms are typically located at popular landmarks, public art installations, or other points of interest. They are often more challenging to obtain than regular PokéStops or Gyms, as they require a higher level of engagement and activity from players. However, the rewards for obtaining and maintaining a PokéStop Gym are well worth the effort, making them a highly sought-after feature in the game.
How do I become a PokéStop Gym in Pokémon Go?
To become a PokéStop Gym, you’ll need to submit a nomination for a location through the Pokémon Go app. The nomination process involves providing information about the location, including its name, description, and photos. You’ll also need to ensure that the location meets Niantic’s guidelines for PokéStops and Gyms, which include being a safe and accessible location that is open to the public.
Once you’ve submitted your nomination, it will be reviewed by Niantic’s team to determine whether it meets the necessary criteria. If your nomination is approved, the location will be converted into a PokéStop Gym, and you’ll be notified through the app. Keep in mind that the nomination process can take several weeks or even months, so be patient and don’t get discouraged if your nomination isn’t approved right away.
What are the benefits of being a PokéStop Gym in Pokémon Go?
As a PokéStop Gym, you’ll enjoy a range of benefits that make your location more attractive to players. For one, you’ll receive increased foot traffic and visibility, as players will be drawn to your location to collect items and battle. You’ll also receive a unique in-game badge that indicates your location’s status as a PokéStop Gym.
In addition to these benefits, PokéStop Gyms also receive increased rewards and bonuses, including more items and resources for players who visit and battle at the location. This can help to drive engagement and activity at your location, making it a more vibrant and dynamic place for players to interact.
How do I increase my chances of becoming a PokéStop Gym in Pokémon Go?
To increase your chances of becoming a PokéStop Gym, make sure to submit a high-quality nomination that includes detailed information about your location. This should include clear photos, a detailed description, and any relevant historical or cultural context. You should also ensure that your location meets Niantic’s guidelines for PokéStops and Gyms.
It’s also a good idea to engage with your local Pokémon Go community to build support for your nomination. This can involve reaching out to local players, sharing your nomination on social media, and encouraging others to submit nominations for your location. By building a groundswell of support, you can increase your chances of being approved as a PokéStop Gym.
Can I nominate any location to become a PokéStop Gym in Pokémon Go?
No, not all locations are eligible to become PokéStop Gyms. Niantic has established guidelines for PokéStops and Gyms that require locations to be safe, accessible, and open to the public. This means that private residences, businesses, and other locations that are not open to the public are not eligible for nomination.
Additionally, locations that are deemed to be sensitive or inappropriate, such as schools, hospitals, and places of worship, are also not eligible for nomination. It’s essential to review Niantic’s guidelines carefully before submitting a nomination to ensure that your location meets the necessary criteria.
How long does it take to become a PokéStop Gym in Pokémon Go?
The time it takes to become a PokéStop Gym can vary significantly, depending on a range of factors. Niantic’s review process typically takes several weeks or even months, during which time your nomination will be evaluated to determine whether it meets the necessary criteria.
In some cases, nominations may be approved more quickly, while others may take longer. It’s essential to be patient and not get discouraged if your nomination isn’t approved right away. You can check the status of your nomination through the Pokémon Go app, and you’ll be notified if your nomination is approved or rejected.
Can I lose my status as a PokéStop Gym in Pokémon Go?
Yes, it is possible to lose your status as a PokéStop Gym in Pokémon Go. Niantic regularly reviews and updates its list of PokéStops and Gyms, and locations that no longer meet the necessary criteria may be removed.
Additionally, if a location is deemed to be no longer safe or accessible, it may be removed as a PokéStop Gym. It’s essential to ensure that your location continues to meet Niantic’s guidelines and to engage with your local Pokémon Go community to maintain support for your location. By doing so, you can help to ensure that your location remains a vibrant and dynamic PokéStop Gym.