New GBL Novelties

The Go Battle League (GBL) of Pokémon Go has been especially productive as of late, with a few new leagues to cater to different occasions. Recently, two more new leagues were added, one being a rehash of a common league and the other being a special league for the current times. Since they were introduced at the same time a week ago, it makes sense to discuss them together and what they entail.

The rehashed league is called Master League Classic, and as can be perceived, it's a rehash of the Master League. It's exactly like the Master League, but only Pokémon up to level 40 are allowed. That's because the current Master League and its associated Premier Cup accommodates Pokémon greater than level 40, now available since the Go Beyond update last month. Apart from this, there are no other restrictions, just like Master League in general. For those who do not possess Pokémon that are capable of dealing with the current Master League and/or Premier Cup, the Master League Classic becomes a good alternative.

Meanwhile, the special league is called the Holiday Cup, fitting the current occasion or season, though winding down regardless. Like similar seasonal leagues, it is of the Great League with a few type restrictions. The allowed types are Flying, Grass, Ice, Normal, Ghost, and Electric, at least one of these. With this selection, it is particularly representative of the decorations and spirits that normally accompany this time of year in many places in the world. A particularly effective and frequent Pokémon for this special league is Obstagoon, which is surprisingly powerful against most other Pokémon, including two of the allowed types.

Usually, only one of these leagues, themes, or cups are introduced at any given time. However, with both of these appearing at the same time, the concentrations of some Trainers may be divided as to whether they will take up the restrained challenge of Master League Classic or the seasonal festivity of the Holiday Cup. Even then, the answer may be obvious in that some can only take up the latter because of its simpler CP restriction, while those with developed teams for the former might occasionally delve into it. I personally take up both, alternating when I'm bored; likewise, a few Trainers might do the same.

With two novel leagues - one a re-familiarization and the other a timely celebration - Trainers seem to have their hands full this time around. Yet if anything, they could and should have the necessary Pokémon on hand from previous league iterations, allowing for easy participation in either or both. There's still a bit of festivity to be had as the real ones wind down, and that's something Trainers can take advantage of.

One year ago: On Third Parties

Two years ago: The Loading Screen of Go

Three years ago: Team Assistance and Secrecy

Four years ago: "They can imitate you, but they can't duplicate you..."