So if you haven’t heard the latest news, Pokemon GO has been released. People everywhere are getting out of the house and driving all over town to catch them all and capture their local Pokemon Gym for their team. You can usually find them sitting around in a public venue or park furiously tap and swing their phones around trying to find that elusive Golbat. Don’t worry, they’re harmless. If you are one of these Pokemon trainers however, here are a few tips for in and out of the game that will help you become a Pokemon Master.

In the game you start out by catching your starter and head out from there to explore the world. Then a few levels later you finally are able to participate in gym battles and bring your team to victory. But it takes more than battles and catching lots of Pokemon to be the best.

1. Learn which types of Pokemon are best-used against the types you will be facing at the Gym. If you need a chart to look at, click here.
2. Stock pile on items. Hit as many PokeStops as you can since your bag can hold up to 500 items. You’re going to need all of those extra Pokeballs and potions.
3. Transfer Pokemon as you level up. Eventually it will be more natural to catch high CP Pokemon. You should clear out your lower CP’s as you go along since you only have enough space for 250 Pokemon.
4. Capitalize on lures. If you see a PokeStop that has rose petals falling from it, which means it is equipped with a lure for the next 30minutes. Take a break and stop by for a while, you never know what Pokemon might show up.

Now here’s a few helpful do’s and don’ts to consider while you are out on your adventure.

1. Keep your phone charged. Nobody wants their phone to die on them just as they were about to catch a Growlithe. Maybe even get an external battery if you can afford one.
2. Go with a group of friends. It is much easier to take down a gym as well as be on alert for Pokemon if you have multiple people to help. If you don’t have any friends to go with, you’re likely to find someone nearby playing as well.
3. If you plan on adventuring all day, bring water. Stay hydrated and maybe even have some snacks handy. No, your Squirtle will not give you water.
4. Don’t wander off. Ty to stay within familiar territory. We would want you getting lost or caught trespassing on someone’s property.
5. Don’t GO and drive. Trust me, the cops don’t care if there was a Pikachu in the car with you, just don’t do it.
6. And lastly, have fun! Go outside and be the best trainer you can be. Hope you catch ’em all

-Dan Schmidt (Intern)