Niantic Seeks Player Input After Mixed Reactions to New Pokémon Go Avatar Update
Niantic, the company behind Pokémon Go, is actively seeking player feedback in the wake of a divided response to the game’s recent avatar update.
Last week, the highly anticipated overhaul of the avatar customization system was introduced, featuring a more versatile default design. This new system allows players to adjust their avatars’ weight and specific body dimensions using sliders, along with an expanded variety of skin tones and hairstyles.
However, initial reactions have been tepid. Many players expressed dissatisfaction with the appearance of the new avatar faces and the abrupt shift in the artistic style. Over the weekend, the primary subreddit for Pokémon Go was inundated with grievances, including comments from a user who claimed to have participated in an internal beta test. This individual asserted that previously raised concerns had not been adequately addressed by the development team.
In response to the backlash, Kestral Riot, the community manager for Niantic, has been gathering constructive criticism via social media. Riot encouraged players to maintain civility in their feedback and confirmed that these comments would be shared with the Pokémon Go development team.
Despite the mixed reactions to the avatar update, players have responded more positively to enhancements in the game’s environments. Pokémon encounters now feature intricate backgrounds that accurately represent the natural biomes where players are located. Looking ahead, Niantic plans to roll out an upgrade to the augmented reality (AR) capabilities of the game—currently being tested in Australia—which will enable players to place and pose multiple Pokémon for augmented reality photos.
As Pokémon Go approaches its tenth anniversary, Eurogamer recently interviewed Ed Wu, a key executive in the game’s development, discussing the exciting future that lies ahead for the beloved app.
FAQs about Pokémon GO and its avatars
Ans. Pokémon GO has introduced various updates to avatars, allowing for more customization options, new clothing, and accessories. Recent updates may have also changed how avatars are displayed in-game.
Ans. As of now, there hasn’t been any official announcement from Niantic regarding rolling back avatar updates. Players can express their feedback, but changes depend on the company’s decisions.
Ans. Yes, there have been changes to avatars in Pokémon GO over time, including new customization options, outfits, and features to enhance player personalization.
Ans. While Pokémon GO still has a dedicated player base, its popularity has declined due to various factors such as the novelty wearing off, competition from other mobile games, and changes in gameplay that some players may not enjoy.
Ans. If your Pokémon GO avatar changed in 2024, it may be due to an update or change in the game’s customization options. Sometimes, default settings or resets can occur after updates.
Ans. Serena is a character from the Pokémon anime and games who is a Pokémon Trainer and Coordinator. In the context of Pokémon GO, if you’re referring to her role, she may have been featured in special events or collaborations, but specific details would depend on the event announcements.