Pokémon GO is facing backlash from its player base due to the introduction of a new feature that many fans are labeling a “predatory tactic.” While it may not reach the level of controversy associated with loot boxes in other games, the latest feature is nonetheless stirring up discontent among Pokémon GO players.
Since the pandemic, players have expressed frustration with several changes in the game, particularly Niantic’s decision to return to in-person events and raids, despite ongoing resistance from fans. Recent updates regarding Gigantamax Pokémon and what many players perceive as persistent efforts to drive microtransactions have added to the growing dissatisfaction. Now, a new issue has emerged surrounding the introduction of the “Upgrade Rewards” feature, further exacerbating concerns.
The “Upgrade Rewards” Controversy
The controversy centers around the new “Upgrade Rewards” option that appears after Dynamax battles. After a player successfully completes one of these battles, a rewards screen is displayed, offering items such as berries, Poké Balls, and recovery supplies. However, a new prompt at the bottom of the screen encourages players to exchange 200 PokéCoins for an upgraded set of rewards.
The main grievance from players is the lack of transparency surrounding the rewards. The upgrade screen hints at a boost to XP and additional items but ends with a vague “and more!” without clearly specifying what the extra rewards entail. Although initial fears that this could be akin to a loot box were dispelled, many players still find the lack of clarity concerning.
Player Reactions: Costs, Risks, and Transparency
Beyond the lack of detailed information, some players have criticized the cost-to-reward ratio, arguing that the 200 PokéCoins required for the upgrade doesn’t justify the returns. There are also concerns that younger players, or even distracted users, might accidentally confirm the upgrade and waste their in-game currency. This fear is especially heightened for parents, who worry that children handling their phones might unintentionally use PokéCoins on unnecessary upgrades.
Some fans have pointed out that the game requires players to confirm the upgrade twice before finalizing the transaction, reducing the likelihood of accidental purchases. However, this hasn’t quelled the overarching concern that the game increasingly pushes microtransactions. While it’s technically possible to play Pokémon GO without spending money, many players feel that it has become progressively harder to do so as the game continues to evolve.
A Growing Concern About Microtransactions
The ongoing debate reflects a broader frustration with the frequency of in-game purchases. Pokémon GO has always offered a free-to-play experience, but players feel that the game’s design has shifted toward incentivizing spending at nearly every turn. For many, the “Upgrade Rewards” feature is just the latest example of what they view as a strategy to push microtransactions onto players.
As a result, some players are urging caution when completing Dynamax battles, advising others to avoid the “Upgrade Rewards” option, especially if children are using the device. This echoes previous concerns where players’ children accidentally used valuable items, like Master Balls, in the game.
With ongoing fan dissatisfaction, it remains to be seen whether Niantic will address these concerns or continue down the path of monetization that has sparked such fierce debate among its dedicated player base.
