Niantic to Address Criticism of Pokémon GO’s Avatar System
Despite the highly-awaited release of the new Avatar System in Pokémon GO, players have expressed their disappointment with the update. The criticism revolved around the androgynous appearance of characters, numerous bugs, and overall unattractiveness. However, Niantic’s game director, Micheal Steranka, has now shed light on the company’s plans to address these concerns.
In an interview with Eurogamer, Steranka acknowledged the mixed feedback received in response to the character customization update. He stated that changing such a beloved feature was always a risk, as players had grown attached to their avatars over the years. While some players appreciated the long-overdue update, others felt that it did not meet their expectations or match the standards set by other games.
Niantic has already made some changes based on player feedback, such as improving body proportions and adding more diverse skin tones. However, Steranka emphasized that this is just the beginning. The company aims to continue enhancing the Avatar System to ensure that every player worldwide feels represented in the game.
Addressing the technical challenges faced during the development of the new system, Steranka explained that adapting existing avatar items to the more customizable characters was a complex task. Nevertheless, Niantic has been actively listening to player feedback and is committed to making further adjustments to improve the avatars.
The reaction from players to the Avatar System overhaul has been met with understanding regarding the accompanying bugs. Instead, the focus has been on the appearance of the avatars. It is hoped that Niantic will stay true to their commitment and make the necessary changes to rectify this issue.
As Pokémon GO continues to evolve, it is crucial for Niantic to maintain a close connection with its player base and address their concerns. With ongoing updates and improvements, the Avatar System has the potential to become a beloved feature of the game, allowing players to fully express themselves in the Pokémon world.
Additional Facts:
1. The release of the Avatar System update in Pokémon GO was highly anticipated by players.
2. Players have expressed disappointment with the update due to the androgynous appearance of characters, bugs, and overall unattractiveness.
3. Niantic’s game director, Micheal Steranka, has acknowledged the mixed feedback and addressed the company’s plans to address the concerns.
4. Niantic has already made some changes based on player feedback, including improvements to body proportions and adding more diverse skin tones.
5. Steranka emphasized that these changes are just the beginning, and the company aims to continue enhancing the Avatar System to ensure worldwide representation.
Key Questions and Answers:
1. What are the main criticisms of the Avatar System update in Pokémon GO?
– The main criticisms include the androgynous appearance of characters, numerous bugs, and overall unattractiveness.
2. How has Niantic responded to the player feedback?
– Niantic has already made some changes based on player feedback, including improving body proportions and adding more diverse skin tones. They are committed to making further adjustments to improve the avatars.
Key Challenges or Controversies:
1. The major challenge faced by Niantic was adapting existing avatar items to the more customizable characters in the Avatar System. This was a complex task that required technical adjustments.
Advantages and Disadvantages:
Advantages:
1. The Avatar System allows players to customize their characters and fully express themselves in the Pokémon world.
2. The ongoing enhancements and updates to the Avatar System show Niantic’s commitment to addressing player concerns.
Disadvantages:
1. The initial release of the Avatar System faced criticism for its androgynous appearance and bugs.
2. The process of adapting existing avatar items to the customizable characters has been challenging for Niantic.
Related links:
1. Pokémon GO Official Website
2. Eurogamer
