Pokémon Go director discusses avatar backlash, and a “course correct” needed on the slowdown of new species

Eight years into Pokémon Go’s journey, the summer Go Fest events have become a staple in the app’s calendar. Recently held in Madrid, these meetups attracted tens of thousands of Pokémon enthusiasts who braved the heat to catch a diverse array of species. The vibrant atmosphere in Madrid’s Juan Carlos I Park was reminiscent of the game’s earlier days, with fans donning merchandise and costumes, creating a palpable sense of community.

The Global version of Go Fest, introduced during the pandemic, continues to offer appealing rewards, although it lacks the excitement of traveling to a new location among fellow players. Madrid, unlike last year’s event in London, felt more intimate and engaging, with PokéStops and full raid lobbies visible throughout the city.

During this event, director Michael Steranka provided insights on the game’s recent developments and the community’s feedback. Over the past few months, several quality-of-life features have been introduced, and the Go Tour Sinnoh event significantly boosted player engagement. However, some criticisms have arisen, particularly regarding the avatar update, which many felt was rushed, and the slowdown in the introduction of new Pokémon species.

Addressing the Slow Release of New Species

Steranka acknowledged the noticeable slowdown in the release of new Pokémon, a sentiment echoed by players on various forums. He emphasized that this was not an intentional strategy but rather a result of event cadences and planning. The team recognizes the need to correct this course and is committed to providing players with new and exciting Pokémon to chase in upcoming seasons. He assured fans that they would see more beloved Pokémon making their appearance soon.

Balancing Mega Pokémon Releases

Another concern raised was the limited release of Mega Pokémon since November, notably only Heracross. Steranka explained that the team is considering the right timing and opportunities for releasing iconic Pokémon like Mega Mewtwo. The goal is to ensure that when these powerful Pokémon debut, it feels significant and special.

Future of Generations and Level Caps

Fans have also been curious about the introduction of Generation 8 Pokémon and the potential for features like Z-Moves or Gigantamax. Steranka stated that the team is actively discussing Generation 8 and is keen on honoring the source material. However, no specific timeline or launch strategy has been set yet.

As more players reach the game’s current Level 50 cap, questions about expanding this limit arise. Steranka shared his personal experience of feeling a lack of ongoing challenges at Level 50 and emphasized the importance of bringing new players up to speed if a cap increase were to occur. The team is considering how to ensure that leveling up remains an enjoyable experience for both veterans and newcomers.

Avatar System Changes and Player Feedback

The avatar update received mixed reviews, and Steranka acknowledged the challenges of changing a beloved feature that players have cherished for years. The team is committed to making further improvements to the avatar system, ensuring it becomes more inclusive and representative of all players. They are actively responding to feedback and have already initiated adjustments, with plans for more features to enhance customization and diversity.

Exploring New Features and Enhancements

Discussing future developments, Steranka noted that while the team is excited about upcoming features, they are also mindful of not overwhelming new players. Millions of new players are joining Pokémon Go each month, and the goal is to provide a welcoming experience for everyone. The team has ambitious plans for 2025 and beyond, indicating that Pokémon Go will continue to evolve and adapt.

As the game progresses, the team is laser-focused on ensuring that both veteran and new players find value in their Pokémon experiences, whether through the thrill of catching new species or participating in community events. The balance between offering fresh content and maintaining accessibility for newcomers remains a top priority.