Just a few days ago, Pokémon GO announced details regarding their annual Halloween event. Today, Niantic unexpectedly revealed a new feature coming to the app with an even more unexpected release date. The feature, called Party Play, will be released tomorrow, Tuesday, October 17th–less than 24 hours after it was announced.

Are you ready for a new way to play Pokémon GO with your friends? 🥳

Soon, you’ll be able to start the party everywhere you GO with Party Play!

Learn more: https://t.co/G216ga2yhO #GOPartyPlay #GOStartTheParty pic.twitter.com/uh2Njganob

— Pokémon GO (@PokemonGoApp) October 16, 2023

Party Play, advertised as being a new way to play with friends, allows Trainers to join forces and participate as one unit. Starting at level 15, up to four Trainers can form a party to collect Pokémon, complete challenges and represent their teams. Players can even keep track of their friends, as their avatars will appear on the app’s map!

Party Play comes with some new aspects for Trainers to enjoy, such as the new “Party Challenges.” Once a party is formed, a pop-up will appear asking the members which task they would like to take on. These challenges can include catching Pokémon, spinning PokéStops, and battling in raids. After completing the challenges, players will receive an in-game reward. 

Those in a party have an advantage during raids. Called “Party Power,” the bonus doubles the damage of a Pokémon’s Charged Attack and charges every Fast Attack. The more members in the party means Party Power charges faster, leading to quicker, more efficient raids.

During a party session, each Trainer will receive the party’s Activity Summary. There, players can view the categories Pokémon, Throws, Battle, Adventure and General to see the party’s statistics during their adventure. Once the session ends, players will get a personalized visual recap of their journey that can be shared on social media.

To celebrate the Party Play launch, Pokémon GO will be having a Special Research called “Welcome Party,” where players will have a chance to earn an exclusive Eevee-themed T-shirt for their avatar by participating in the new feature. 

The multiplayer update hits Pokémon GO on Tuesday, October 17, 2023.