Pokemon GO‘s initial release was super big, players all over the world were roaming around parks to find their favorite Pokemon. The game captivated millions of hearts with its interactive and engaging gameplay.
However, as time passed by, some players drifted away from the game, hoping to return and find the game in a better spot and with much more content to engage in. But there are still some stuff that remained the same from day 1, leaving a bad taste in the mouths of returning players.
Returning Player Criticizes the Buddy System Interface in Pokemon GO
Ever since its launch in 2016, Pokemon GO frequently introduced many new features and events for players to participate in. However, there are some systems that are permanent and help players organize their things. One of those systems is the Buddy system, which is present since day 1.
This system was made to add a new layer of interaction with their captured Pokemon. Players simply need to choose a Pokémon and then it will accompany them on their adventures. This not only helped in increasing affection with the Pokemon but also earned players some extra candies and experience.
However, one main issue of this system was its interface, which was heavily criticized by players for not being user-friendly. Reddit user doctor_hh posted a thread, explaining that they are coming back to the game after a few years break, but still finding the same clunky and terrible interface in the buddy system.
How is the “buddy” system still SOOO awful?
byu/doctor_hh inpokemongo
They even went ahead and asked the community if the system even received any Quality of Life updates in years. This has started a discussion in the community. The system is usually not useful (not used much) except when using multiple Pokemons for raids, then it requires several taps to perform simple actions, such as swapping buddies or feeding them berries.
This has not only become a big hassle for many players but also interferes during events or research tasks (when there is a need for interaction with buddy Pokemon). For any returning players, the neglect of this system can even create questions like why they even returned in the first place.
Niantic Needs to Address the Long-standing Issues
Niantic has been super active in listening to player feedback and making required changes to Pokemon GO. However, the lack of improvements to the buddy system raises a lot of questions about their priority. It is not a very popular system, for sure, but players still use it so they need to make sure that it is in a better state than before.
As for now, players are enjoying the latest update to the game with its 8th anniversary. There are many new things to try such as new Mega Rayquaza Elite Raids and a new Special Research Story to complete.
In the end, It is crucial that Niantic make sure that they are focusing on small details like that as well and not just focus on new big updates.
Have you bought the returning Special Research Story for Shiny Celebi in Pokemon GO? Tell us in the comment section below.
