5 Strategies for Niantic to Enhance the Pokemon GO Gigantamax Experience

The introduction of Gigantamax Pokemon in Pokémon GO was anticipated to be an exhilarating update, bringing beloved transformations from Sword and Shield into the realm of mobile gaming. Unfortunately, many fans feel that the execution has not lived up to expectations. While Pokémon GO has always been about community engagement and accessibility, the current rollout of Gigantamax appears to overlook a segment of the player base.

This article will examine five potential enhancements Niantic could implement to improve the Gigantamax experience, making it more enjoyable, inclusive, and reflective of Pokémon GO’s core values. With some thoughtful adjustments, this feature could evolve into the exciting addition that players have been yearning for.

Five Ways to Enhance the Gigantamax Experience in Pokémon GO

1) Enable Remote Gigantamax Raids

Remote Gigantamax raids could enhance accessibility (Image via The Pokemon Company)

Niantic prioritizes in-person play, but by limiting Gigantamax to local raids only, they inadvertently exclude many players, including those who rely on remote access. By permitting remote participation with a revised reward system—such as a reduced chance of acquiring rare items or slightly diminished IV thresholds—Niantic could enhance inclusivity without detracting from the value of local gameplay.

This adjustment would enable players unable to attend in person due to geographical or scheduling constraints to still engage with the game.

2) Introduce Varied Difficulty Levels for Gigantamax Raids

Gigantamax Blastoise showcased in-game (Image via The Pokemon Company)

The existing high difficulty of six-star Gigantamax raids necessitates powerful Pokemon and a well-coordinated team, making it inaccessible for many. By adding lower-tier Gigantamax raids (such as four-star and five-star options), newer or solo players can enjoy participating without feeling overwhelmed.

For example, while a six-star raid could offer a higher probability of catching a high-IV Pokemon, the lower-tier raids would still provide manageable challenges and rewards that align with their respective difficulties.

3) Enhance Rewards for In-Person Raids

Gigantamax Venusaur featured in the game (Image via The Pokemon Company)

The overall enthusiasm surrounding Gigantamax raids has fallen short compared to other in-game events, resulting in decreased participation. To motivate players to engage in-person without sidelining remote players, Niantic could bolster rewards for local raids.

For instance, in-person raids could yield additional experience points, rare candy, or improved IV thresholds, encouraging local gatherings while still allowing remote access. Similar to the way Niantic introduced premium Remote Raid Passes, developing this system could amplify in-person participation and inclusivity.

4) Incorporate Healing Items or Shields for Gigantamax Raids

Using items mid-battle could provide a strategic advantage (Image via The Pokemon Company)

The high stakes of Gigantamax raids often result in rapid team defeats, leaving little room for dodging attacks. Implementing a limited pool of Max Revives or shields could give players a better chance to prevail.

These items could be specific to Gigantamax encounters, allowing players to absorb more damage without oversimplifying the challenge. With this added resilience, players would feel more equipped to tackle formidable opponents, particularly if their roster lacks top-tier Pokemon.

5) Introduce Local Group Bonuses for Team Raids

Local bonuses can motivate group activities during Gigantamax battles (Image via The Pokemon Company)

To enhance the community aspect of Pokémon GO, Niantic could create incentives for groups that participate in Gigantamax raids as a team. Possible local group bonuses could include improved capture rates, additional stardust, or enhanced chances of encountering higher-IV Pokemon for players who collaborate in raids.

This addition not only celebrates the community-centric nature of the game but also gives local players additional motivation to cooperate, creating a more engaging and social environment for those who enjoy in-person experiences.

Although Gigantamax raids are indeed an exciting feature, enhancing accessibility and rewarding participation—whether remotely or in-person—has the potential to transform it into a more welcoming experience for all. By fine-tuning difficulty levels, rewards, and inclusivity, Niantic can ensure that the Gigantamax adventures in Pokémon GO unite players and strengthen the community spirit that has been core to the game since its launch.

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Image Credits: We.com