How Fast Can You Go in Pokemon GO?

Pokémon GO blends the digital and physical worlds, encouraging players to explore their surroundings to catch Pokémon.

However, a key aspect of the game that often puzzles players is the speed limit set by Niantic, the game’s developer.

This article delves into the intricacies of speed in Pokémon GO, offering a comprehensive understanding of how speed affects gameplay.

Understanding the Speed Cap

The speed cap in Pokémon GO is a crucial mechanism designed to promote safety and fairness.

Primarily, it’s in place to discourage players from playing while driving, ensuring both the safety of players and the public.

The game uses GPS tracking to monitor your speed, and when you exceed a certain threshold, typically around 10.5 km/h (6.5 mph), certain features of the game become restricted.

How Speed Affects Gameplay

When you exceed the speed cap in Pokémon GO, several changes occur in the game:

  1. Spawn Rates Decrease: Pokémon spawn rates are significantly reduced, making it harder to encounter Pokémon.
  2. PokéStop Accessibility: Spinning PokéStops becomes more challenging, as the game requires players to be at a lower speed to interact with them.
  3. Egg Hatching and Buddy Candy: The distance traveled at higher speeds is not counted towards hatching eggs or earning candy with your buddy Pokémon.

Understanding these limitations is vital for players who wish to optimize their gameplay experience.

Strategies for Efficient Play

Despite the speed cap, there are strategies to play efficiently:

  • Walking or Biking: Sticking to walking or biking at moderate speeds ensures that all game features remain accessible.
  • Public Transportation: Using buses or trains that travel at lower speeds can be an effective way to play, especially in urban areas.
  • Playing in High-Density Areas: Areas with a high density of PokéStops and gyms allow for more interactions within a smaller radius.

The Importance of Safety

Safety should always be the top priority when playing Pokémon GO. Niantic’s speed cap is a reminder for players to stay aware of their surroundings and not to play while driving.

Always prioritize your safety and the safety of others while enjoying the game.

Niantic’s Stance on Speed and Gameplay

Niantic has continually emphasized the importance of exploration and physical activity in Pokémon GO.

By setting a speed cap, they encourage players to explore their environment in a safe and engaging manner. It’s a balance between keeping the game exciting and ensuring player safety.

Conclusion

Understanding the speed cap in Pokémon GO is essential for a fulfilling gaming experience. While it may seem restrictive, it’s in place for important reasons, primarily player safety.

By adapting your play style to these limitations, you can fully enjoy the adventure that Pokémon GO offers, all while staying safe and respecting the game’s guidelines. Remember, the best Pokémon adventure is a safe one!

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Alex

By day he's an engineer and by night (well, evening or very early morning but night sounds way cooler) Alex runs the Apps UK ship. He has a keen interest in language, fitness & especially social media - he is always on the lookout for the next hot platform.

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