Niantic’s Plans for Upcoming Pokemon Go Events in 2021

Despite its popularity, Pokemon Go has faced many challenges this year. Players have been particularly vocal about their dissatisfaction with the current events, making it a major source of complaints within the fanbase.

Speaking to Dot Esports, Pokemon Go Director Michael Steranka recently addressed fan expectations and the disappointment surrounding events, specifically addressing the backlash towards this year’s Ultra Unlock event compared to previous years.

This year’s Ultra Unlock event was not as exciting as previous years, with fewer new Pokemon, regions, and rewards for completing Pokemon Go Fest Global tasks. Players were disappointed with the unlocks, including Tandemaus and only one new Shiny, Togedamaru.

At the 2024 Pokemon World Championships, Adam Newell, a writer for Dot Esports, inquired with Staranka about fan backlash towards this year’s Ultra Unlock events. Staranka confirmed that Niantic is considering this criticism.

A person in an Eevee costume peers around a corner — Niantic/The Pokemon Company

A person in an Eevee costume from Pokemon Go Fest 2024

Steranka elaborated that as Pokemon Go enters its eighth year, the game’s events have become increasingly thrilling and rewarding. As a result, players’ expectations have also grown. He emphasized that it is Niantic’s responsibility to meet and exceed these expectations.

Steranka concluded his statement to Dot Esports by mentioning that if the Ultra Unlock event was not up to expectations this year, Niantic will take into account user feedback and make necessary adjustments for next year.

Despite the quiet year for Pokemon Go, Steranka’s interview provided insight into the recent slowdown in new wild spawns and the addition of new Raid Bosses. That concludes the interview with Steranka.

As Niantic hints at major upcoming updates for Pokemon Go, potential features such as Dynamax and Gigantamax could soon become available, potentially reigniting interest in the Galar region.

As we look forward to upcoming releases such as Pokemon Legends Z-A, it is our hope that Go will become even more exhilarating in the upcoming months for both longtime fans and new players alike.