Does Poké Ball Plus Automatically Spin Stops? A Deep Dive
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The short answer is: it depends on the specific device you’re using. The original Poké Ball Plus, released with Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee!, does NOT automatically spin PokéStops. You need to press the button to attempt to spin them. However, the newer Pokémon GO Plus + (Plus Plus) device does have an Auto-spin setting that, when enabled, will automatically spin Photo Discs at nearby PokéStops and Gyms.
Let’s delve deeper into each device and explore the nuances of their functionality, common issues, and helpful tips to maximize your Pokémon GO experience. We’ll also address a wide range of frequently asked questions to ensure you’re fully equipped with the knowledge you need.
Poké Ball Plus: The Original Interactive Accessory
The Poké Ball Plus was initially designed as a controller for Pokémon: Let’s Go, but also functions as a companion device for Pokémon GO. While it connects to the mobile game and alerts you to nearby Pokémon and PokéStops, its capabilities are somewhat limited compared to the newer Plus Plus model.
How the Poké Ball Plus Works
When a Pokémon is nearby, the device vibrates and the indicator light flashes green (for Pokémon you’ve caught before) or yellow (for Pokémon you haven’t caught). To attempt to catch the Pokémon, you press the main button.
Similarly, when you’re within range of a PokéStop, the device will vibrate and light up blue. To spin the PokéStop and collect items, you must press the button. It won’t happen automatically.
Common Issues with the Poké Ball Plus
- Disconnects: The Poké Ball Plus is notorious for disconnecting from the game. This can be due to low battery, distance between the device and your phone, or a poor/blocked signal.
- Not catching Pokémon: This can happen if you run out of Poké Balls, the Pokémon flees, or the connection is unstable.
- Not spinning stops: This is usually because you’re not pressing the button when near a PokéStop, or the connection is faulty.
Pokémon GO Plus +: Automation and Enhanced Features
The Pokémon GO Plus + (Plus Plus) is a significant upgrade that introduces automatic functionality, especially concerning PokéStop spinning.
Auto-Spin Feature Explained
The Auto-spin setting is the key difference here. Once enabled, the Plus Plus will automatically spin PokéStops and Gyms within range, collecting items without any manual input. This is a game-changer for passive gameplay, allowing you to gather resources while on the move or even while the app is running in the background.
Setting up Auto-Spin on the Plus Plus
To enable Auto-spin:
- Ensure your Pokémon GO Plus + is paired with the Pokémon GO app.
- Navigate to the settings menu within the Pokémon GO app.
- Find the Pokémon GO Plus + settings and enable the “Auto-spin” option.
Other Features of the Plus Plus
Besides auto-spinning, the Plus Plus boasts several other notable features:
- Auto-catch: The device can automatically attempt to catch Pokémon you’ve already caught.
- Sleep tracking: It tracks your sleep, which can earn you rewards in Pokémon GO and Pokémon Sleep.
- Improved connectivity: Generally, the Plus Plus has a more stable connection than the original Poké Ball Plus.
Troubleshooting Auto-Spin Issues
Even with the Auto-spin feature, you might encounter problems. Here’s how to troubleshoot common issues:
- Full Item Bag: The most common reason for the Auto-spin feature to fail is a full item bag. The device will not spin PokéStops if it can’t collect any more items. Clear out your bag by using or discarding items.
- Disabled Auto-Spin: Double-check that the Auto-spin setting is actually enabled in the Pokémon GO app’s settings.
- Connectivity Issues: A weak Bluetooth connection can interfere with the Auto-spin function. Try restarting your phone and the Pokémon GO Plus +.
- Game Updates: Ensure your Pokémon GO app is updated to the latest version. Bugs in older versions can sometimes affect device functionality.
- Device Battery: A low battery on your Pokémon GO Plus + can also cause issues. Make sure the device is adequately charged.
Optimizing Your Pokémon GO Plus Experience
Here are some tips to get the most out of your Pokémon GO Plus device, regardless of which model you own:
- Keep your device charged: A dead battery renders the device useless.
- Maintain a stable Bluetooth connection: Avoid obstructions and keep your phone and the device close together.
- Manage your item bag: Regularly clear out unwanted items to maximize your item collection from PokéStops.
- Understand the LED indicators: Learn what the different colors and patterns mean to quickly understand what’s happening in the game.
- Experiment with settings: Explore the app settings to customize the device’s behavior to your liking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why is my Pokémon GO Plus not spinning stops?
If you have the original Poké Ball Plus, it doesn’t spin automatically; you must press the button. If you have the Pokémon GO Plus +, ensure the Auto-spin setting is enabled and your item bag isn’t full.
2. Does Pokémon Go Plus work automatically?
The original Poké Ball Plus does not work automatically. You must press the button to catch Pokémon and spin stops. The Pokémon GO Plus + can work automatically with its auto-catch and auto-spin features.
3. Why does Poké Ball Plus disconnect?
Common reasons include low battery, distance between the device and your smartphone, and a poor or blocked Bluetooth signal.
4. How long does the Poké Ball Plus last?
The battery life of the Pokémon GO Plus + is estimated to be about a week with two to three hours of daily use. The original Poké Ball Plus uses a replaceable CR2032 battery, which typically lasts for several months depending on usage.
5. What does it mean when Poké Ball Plus vibrates?
When a Pokémon is in range, the device will vibrate and flash green if you’ve caught the Pokémon before, or yellow if it’s new. When near a PokéStop, it will vibrate and flash blue.
6. Why is my Pokémon GO Plus flashing green?
It’s flashing green because a Pokémon you’ve already caught is nearby.
7. Is Poké Ball Plus waterproof?
No, neither the Poké Ball Plus nor the Pokémon GO Plus + is waterproof.
8. How do I get more Poké Balls?
You can get more Poké Balls by spinning Photo Discs at PokéStops, purchasing them from the in-game store, opening gifts from friends, completing Field and Special Research tasks, and using the Daily Adventure Incense.
9. Why does it say “Try again later” when I spin PokéStops?
This usually happens if you’ve spun the same stop too recently (there’s a cooldown period) or if you’re moving too fast (the game prevents spinning while traveling at high speeds).
10. Why doesn’t my Pokémon GO track when I close the game?
Ensure your phone’s location permissions are set to “always allow” Pokémon GO to access your location, even when the app is closed. Also, make sure your phone has the necessary sensors (GPS, accelerometer) to track your movement.
11. Why does my Pokémon GO Plus Plus blink red?
The Pokémon GO Plus + will flash red if it fails to capture a Pokémon, if you run out of Poké Balls, or if your item bag is full.
12. Can I use my Poké Ball Plus with Pokémon Sword?
While Sword and Shield doesn’t allow you to use the Poké Ball Plus as a controller like Let’s Go, you can still take your Pokémon for a stroll in the ball to receive some in-game rewards.
13. How do you sleep in Pokemon Go Plus+?
Before sleeping, hold down the Main Button on the Pokémon GO Plus + until the indicator light flashes blue and you hear a lullaby. The device must be paired but not actively connected to Pokémon GO to initiate a sleep session.
14. Can you use Pokémon GO Plus plus while charging?
It’s recommended not to use the Pokémon GO Plus + while charging to avoid heat buildup.
15. What are the benefits of the Poké Ball Plus?
The Poké Ball Plus allows you to catch Pokémon and spin stops with a simple button press. It also counts your steps, helping you hatch Eggs and get Candy for your Buddy Pokémon.
The world of Pokémon GO is constantly evolving, and companion devices like the Poké Ball Plus and Pokémon GO Plus + offer unique ways to enhance the gameplay experience. Whether you’re looking for a more immersive way to catch ’em all or a convenient way to collect items on the go, these devices can add a new layer of fun to your adventures.
Learning about game design and its effect on players can offer more insights into how Pokémon Go and similar games are created. The Games Learning Society promotes the study and development of games for learning. To learn more about their mission, please visit GamesLearningSociety.org.