COVID has affected people all across the globe, and the video games industry has seen some major shake-ups that many gamers are feeling the ramifications of. SomeCOVID restrictions are liftingin the entertainment industry, as is the case withPokemon GO,which previously changed some of its features in light of current events and is now reverting some of those changes.
ManyPokemon GOplayers are used to the quickly-changing nature of the game, which has plenty of events happening throughout the year, including monthly Research Breakthrough Pokemon. There’s also a ton of new features that Niantic and The Pokemon Company try out, including some social isolation-situational bonuses that players will now have to say goodbye to.
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Starting in October, the following changes will be implemented.Nianticisn’t getting rid of every COVID-related change, as it acknowledges that in the current situation, social distancing is still ideal. However, the company’s announcement points out that walking and exercise are great for people’s mental, emotional, and physical health, and playingPokemon GOwhile exercising is a great way to kill two birds with one stone. Here are the temporary changesPokemon GOwill be rolling back, and the COVID tweaks from before that the game will keep.
What’s Changing
What’s Staying the Same
These changes will go into effect on October 1 at 1 PM PDT, just a few days after theShiny Skitty Spotlight Hourevent. The company also plans to keep certain changes for the “foreseeable future” such as remote raids and GO Battle League updates. Live events are also being rescheduled to 2021 as Niantic keeps an eye on the global situation with bated breath (along with everybody else).
Although at this point a rapid end to COVID may look no more likely thana Sinnoh remake, one can only hope that those working hard on bringing a vaccine to the world will be able to do so quickly. In the meantime,Pokemon GOplayers should follow Niantic’s and health officials' advice to take precautions while going outside to play any video game.
Pokemon GOis available now in select regions on Android and iOS devices.
