Pokemon GO Hints at AI Integration

Article Key Points

Pokemon GO will be introducing an AI feature that will enhance its AR mode in 2024, joining the trend of game developers embracing AI technologies.

Niantic plans to utilize AI technology to enhance the realism of creature reactions in Pokemon GO, creating a more engaging gaming experience. Despite the AR mode being regarded as gimmicky and causing battery drain, AI has the potential to enhance its popularity and overall value proposition.

Pokemon GO is set to introduce an artificial intelligence feature to enhance its AR mode in 2024, according to a senior Niantic official. This reveals Niantic's intention to join the increasing number of game developers adopting AI technologies.

In recent years, there have been significant advancements in machine learning and hardware, leading to the emergence of innovative AI solutions. These solutions include complex systems capable of categorizing photos, creating images, and even generating text. While game developers have acknowledged these advancements, the practical applications of such technologies are still in their early stages. The long-term impact of AI on gaming remains to be seen.

In the meantime, Niantic CEO John Hanke revealed that the Pokemon GO team is already exploring artificial intelligence technology. He mentioned in a recent interview with BBC that he anticipates a groundbreaking year for augmented reality apps similar to their popular mobile game in 2024. Hanke believes that this is when AR software will begin to integrate with AI. To ensure they remain at the forefront of innovative advancements, Niantic plans to introduce the first Pokemon GO AI feature in 2024.

Niantic plans to utilize AI to create a more lifelike experience for Pokemon GO creatures, enabling them to respond to their environment. In addition, this technology will be used to adjust the positioning of the pocket monsters within their surroundings. The aim is to eliminate situations where creatures appear to float in the air when using the Pokemon GO AR mode. This functionality could potentially expand upon the existing AR+ mode introduced in the game in 2017.

The inclusion of such a feature could enhance the immersion of the game, although it remains to be seen if it will significantly increase the popularity of the AR mode. Niantic has never shared specific usage data, but fans have long viewed the AR aspect of Pokemon GO as a gimmicky feature that drains battery without adding much value to gameplay. As a result, many fans have played the game with the AR mode disabled since its release in 2016.

While this upcoming addition will introduce the first AI-powered gameplay feature in Pokemon GO, it is possible that Niantic has already integrated some artificial intelligence solutions into its development process. This theory has been suggested by fans who believe that Pokemon GO utilizes AI-generated art.

Pokémon GO, demonstrated by

a trial run disguised as an April Fools' prank on Google Maps, made its official debut to the public in the summer of 2016. This augmented reality mobile application achieved unprecedented triumph and remains among the top-ranking mobile games globally, generating billions in revenue for its creator, Niantic.

Franchise PokemonPlatform(s) iOS, AndroidReleased July 6, 2016Developer(s) Niantic, The Pokemon CompanyPublisher(s) NianticGenre(s) Augmented RealityMultiplayer Online MultiplayerEngine Unity

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z netizen, I am excited about the integration of AI in Pokemon GO. AI has the potential to make the game more immersive and engaging. For example, AI could be used to create more realistic and responsive Pokemon, or to generate new and challenging gameplay experiences. I am also interested to see how AI will be used to improve the AR mode. Currently, the AR mode is not very popular because it can be glitchy and drain battery life. However, AI could be used to make the AR mode more stable and efficient.

Overall, I believe that AI has the potential to make Pokemon GO a better game. I am looking forward to seeing how Niantic implements AI in the game in 2024.