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Advocates argue that these changes increased safety, reduced risks related to trespassing or dangerous environments, and fostered a more respectful gaming experience. As one open letter from the Pokémon GO community detailed, the broader interaction radius contributed significantly to community safety, inclusivity, and courtesy.
The Rollback: Niantic’s Recent Decision
Recently, Niantic announced plans to revert these pandemic-era modifications. Effective immediately, the interaction radius has been reduced back to pre-pandemic levels, compelling players to venture further outdoors to interact with game elements. This shift has garnered criticism from fans who valued the increased accessibility.