Pokemon GO creators, Niantic, has just revealed the future of the Gym feature and introduced a new Raid Battle feature for players to look forward to!
The Gyms in Pokemon GO will have major changes, most notably, a new Photo Disc that will allow players to acquire items similar to PokeStops.
Additionally, Pokemon Gyms will no longer be based on Prestige and training. The new Gym system will instead, feature six permanent slots that can be filled with six unique Pokemon from trainers of the controlling faction.
The new update will also include a new Motivation system that will change the way trainers interact with Gyms. When a Pokemon is assigned to defend a gym, a motivation meter will be shown. Motivation is lost over time and as they are defeated in battle. As a Pokemon loses motivation, its CP also lowers, making it easier for trainers of other factions to take over the gym. If a Pokemon loses all motivation it will return to its trainer. However, trainers can feed Pokemon berries to regain motivation.
Players will also receive Gym Badges through interacting with Gyms spread across the world!
And Finally, Raid Battles. Raid Battles is a co-op gameplay experience where players will work alongside up to 20 other players to take down Raid Bosses.
A series of new items will also be added to the game as reward for clearing Raid Battles.
Read the Official Announcement here