How Pokemon GO Reshaped Itself for COVID-19

As gamers, we are all aware that we don’t get out enough, so Pokemon Go came along and helped us out with that. Created in 2016, Pokemon Go started off with the goal of getting gamers out of the house by searching all over their cities for Pokemon.

Now, due to COVID-19, Niantic, Inc had to think of a way they could stop their players from leaving due to the stay at home government rules. Barriers and paywalls have been relaxed by the developers to allow players to get further through the game along with not having to walk around to catch Pokemon anymore either.

While offering players a virtual world to gather, catch Pokemon, and feel connected, it’s become a great way to deal with the stress and anxiety around the virus.

Remote Raid Pass

Pokemon Go’s New Features as of April 2020:

• Receive a bonus Field Research task every day without spinning a PokeStop.
• You’ll be able to power up your Pokémon to the desired CP by using all the required Candies and Stardust at once.
• You can access Raid Battles that show up in your Nearby view
• After using a Star Piece, Lucky Egg, or Incense, you’ll be able to use more of the same item to extend the item’s effect beyond the usual 30-minute limit. You no longer have to wait for an item effect to expire before you can use another one.
• As you run low on Gifts, your Buddy Pokemon will venture to nearby PokeStops and bring some Gifts back for you to send out to your friends.
• The shop icon in the Poke Ball menu will soon show a notification if there are updated boxes or new items in the shop.

The new update features a Remote Raid Pass to be able to play remotely with your online friends. However, unlike regular raids, there are limitations that come with remote raids.

What we think of the update

When it comes to the world transforming and everything coming to stand still, it’s very important for companies to develop with them. Niantic has given their players exactly what they needed during this time otherwise they could’ve fallen into a lot of problems. A game you play outside when you can’t go outside – what use is that?

I have to say, I never was that into Pokemon Go when it was first released as I’m not one to go out loads (the typical gamer) but I’ll definitely give it a chance now and get myself a pass. If you’ve bought a Remote Raid Pass while in lockdown, let us know if you think it’s worth the purchase and whether you prefer Pokemon Go remote or regular! Happy gaming and stay casual!

iOS Link: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/pok%C3%A9mon-go/id1094591345

Android Link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.nianticlabs.pokemongo&hl=en_GB