Niantic recently confirmed a new "Pokemon Go" feature that allows players to spend time with their favorite monster. Called "Pokemon Go Buddy," the feature was discovered by dataminers early in September 2016. Particular references to a buddy system were uncovered by gamers observing the codes.
Niantic confirmed that Pokemon Go Buddy will soon become available, where a Buddy Pokemon will appear beside the Trainer avatar on a player's profile screen. Pokemon Go Buddy will also provide helpful bonuses like additional Candy when the trainer and his buddy monster walk together. The Pokemon Go Buddy can be changed any time.
GameSpot cited Niantic in detailing that "Pokemon Go" players can choose their favorite monster from their current collection to become their buddy Pokemon. Having a Pokemon Go Buddy will unveil various in-game rewards and experiences. The game company did not indicate when the Buddy feature will launch on "Pokemon Go," but hinted that it will be very soon.
Pokemon Go Buddy follows the recent feature called Pokemon Appraisal, which indicates a creature's attack and defense capabilities when a player talks to a team leader. Niantic said that there will be more updates and features to arrive on "Pokemon Go" in fall 2016. More updates and details are expected soon.
GamePress stated that the Pokemon Go Buddy system was based on the analysis of the latest GAME_MASTER files and official announcement by Niantic. Only one buddy Pokemon is allowed at a time. Each Pokemon is categorized according to size, namely Medium, Shoulder, Big and Flying. Buddy Pokemon cannot be deployed to gyms, but can evolve. Traveling a set distance anywhere between one and three kilometers will also render candies.
Screenshots also showed the Pokemon Go Buddy beside the trainer. Apparently, smaller Pokemon are positioned beside the player, while big ones like Snorlax are in the background. While viewing the "Pokemon Go" map, the buddy disappears, so it seems that the new companion can only be viewed in the player's avatar. It is still uncertain whether Pokemon Go Buddy adds capabilities or stats to the creature. The new feature is expected to arrive soon.
