Pokémon GO’s popularity is still booming nearly four years after the successful AR title’s release on mobile devices. As such, some have been wondering whether the annual Pokémon GO Fest would be taking place this year, given current events regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it has been confirmed that the immense event will still be taking place, albeit virtually.
According to Polygon’s report, the event will still be taking place this summer. As per an announcement on the official website for Pokémon Go, the event will happen on July 25 and July 26 under different circumstances.
The announcement first talks up 2019’s Pokémon GO Fest, which was immensely successful, and how it is being followed up by a “reimagined” fest for 2020. As mentioned before, the event will take place in a virtual setting, meaning Pokémon GO players and attendees can attend the event from anywhere.
Further, those who hold tickets to the event internationally can “attend” the Pokémon GO Fest on both days of the event.
While some details and ticket costs have yet to be revealed, Niantic did tease that attendees can have access to “bonuses, Pokémon encounters, and Special Research.” Moreover, players will still be able to connect in this unprecedented way over the entire summer for other “fun surprises.”
Traditionally, the event has taken place in larger cities like Chicago for purposes of fan congregation. However, current events call for new methods of coming together. Yet, the announcement concludes by looking forward to a future where players can unite in person yet again.
It is depressing that events such as the Pokémon GO Fest, as well as other gaming events like E3 2020, have either had to be fundamentally changed or shelved for the meantime. However, such as in the case of Niantic restructuring the event for a virtual gathering, some of those conducting the events have found positive workarounds.
As Niantic’s announcement concludes, gamers and regular attendees of important events may still look forward to a brighter future where people can once again group together in solidarity for the most uniting events in the gaming industry.
