Pokémon GO Biomes are a new feature that was introduced in the game to add a new level of realism and immersion for Trainers. Biomes are based on real-world ecosystems, and they can change the graphics displayed during encounters based on the time of day, as well as the behavior and distribution of Pokémon.
In this guide, we will explore the different types of biomes, how they affect the game, and tips for making the most of this feature.
Highlights
- Biomes are real-world ecosystems in Pokémon GO, with specific Pokémon more likely to appear in each.
- Biomes support seasons and a day/night cycle, enhancing gameplay realism.
- Each biome has its unique set of Pokémon, encouraging exploration for specific catches.
Types of Pokémon GO Biomes
Types of Pokémon GO BiomesThere are several different biomes in Pokémon GO, including forest, beach, mountain, city, and more. Niantic hasn’t publicly confirmed all of the biomes that exist, but there are around half a dozen biomes in the game. Here is a list of all the Pokémon GO Biomes that have been discovered:
- Park biome, default – has a number of variations, with more or less foliage
- Beach biomes – all beach biomes look slightly different, but all containing bodies of water
- Lake
- River
- Ocean
- Tropical beach biome – same as beach, but has palm trees
- Mountain biome – characteristic mountains in the background
Pokémon GO Biomes: Customization and Seasonal Changes
Biomes are based on official USGS data set on global ecosystems; hence the data is fairly accurate for most of the world. Niantic has shared that encounters within each biome can look slightly different, as the game has the ability to customize the following:
- Pokémon encounter background – the game can decide to draw mountains, city scape, a mixture of those two, or something else, depending on the surrounding data.
- Vegetation – the amount of vegetation can vary, the size of trees, their type, and their color can also vary.
There are a handful variations of beach, forest, and body of water biomes, and the game can change the way each biome looks slightly. One of the goals of Pokémon GO biomes is to make each Pokémon encounter look a little different, even when they are in the same biome. Biomes support seasons, with colors of selected plant species changing to reflect Trainer locations. For example, trees will be in bloom during spring.
Pokémon GO Biomes and Spawn Mechanics
Biomes play a significant role in the new spawn mechanic in Pokémon GO. Each biome has its own unique set of Pokémon that are more likely to appear in that area. For example, the beach biome will have more water-type Pokémon, while the mountain biome will have more rock-type Pokémon. This new feature allows trainers to explore different areas to find specific Pokémon, adding a new layer of strategy to the game.
Day/Night Cycle Impact Across Ecosystems
Biomes in Pokémon GO support a day and night cycle, which can change the graphics displayed during encounters based on the time of day. This feature adds a new level of realism to the game, as the environment changes with the time of day.
In other games and ecosystems, the day and night cycle can also have a significant impact. For example, in Terraria, the day and night cycle refer to the rising and setting of the sun and moon, and the ways this can affect the world. In the game, certain events and NPC spawning can be affected by the time of day. In real-world ecosystems, the day and night cycle can also have a significant impact on the behavior and distribution of organisms.
Pokémon GO: New Friend “Wiglett”
Wiglett, the Garden Eel Pokémon, is making its debut in Pokémon GO within the beach biome. Trainers have already spotted Wiglett globally, so make your way to the beach to encounter Diglett’s distant cousin.
This Water-type Pokémon boasts a Max CP of 648 in Pokémon GO and excels with the moveset Water Gun and Surf. Wiglett thrives in Rain weather conditions, reflecting its origin in the Paldea region.
Tips for Using Pokémon GO Biomes
- Explore different areas: Biomes are based on real-world ecosystems, so exploring different areas can help you find new and unique Pokémon.
- Look for variations in biomes: There are variations of beach, forest, and body of water biomes, and the game can change the way each biome looks slightly.
- Use incense: Incense can attract specific Pokémon that can’t be encountered otherwise. These are also split between habitat hours, so using incense during a specific habitat hour can help you find specific Pokémon.
- Participate in events: During Tour Sinnoh, players can use Incense to attract special Pokémon that can’t be encountered otherwise. These are also split between habitat hours, so participating in events can help you find specific Pokémon.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Pokémon GO biomes offer a dynamic and immersive experience that reflects the real-world ecosystems. By exploring different areas, trainers can encounter a variety of Pokémon that are native to those biomes. Seasonal changes and spawn mechanics add layers of strategy and excitement to the game.
Whether you’re using incense during habitat hours or participating in special events, the knowledge of biomes is invaluable. So, put on your explorer’s hat, step into the great outdoors, and embark on a journey to discover the wonders of Pokémon GO biomes.