Nintendo Provides Update On Pokemon GO Plus Delay

Oh, say it ain’t so! Despite all the hype surrounding Nintendo’s impending launch of Pokémon [...]

By Megan Peters

pokemongoplus
(Photo: Nintendo)

Oh, say it ain't so! Despite all the hype surrounding Nintendo's impending launch of Pokémon GO Plus, the company has now confirmed the accessory's release has been pushed back until September.

Originally set with a July roll out, Pokémon GO Plus caused a stir when it was announced earlier this Summer on the heels of the app's record-breaking release. The $34.99 peripheral promises to let trainers play Pokémon GO without using their smartphones directly. Instead, the Bluetooth-based pin will alert players when a pokémon or pokéstop is nearby. But, with fans still unsure of how the add-on will work, Nintendo's decision to delay its release has made some gamers skeptical. But, according to the company, Pokémon GO Plus was delayed to ensure the accessory would work perfectly with the app.

Speaking with Polygon, a representative at Nintendo told the site that Pokemon GO Plus was delayed so that they could make sure the accessory is compatible with Niantic's app. "The delay is due to the preparations for the Pokémon Go application update in order to optimize Pokémon Go Plus," they said. "In order for us to offer new experiences to play Pokémon Go with Pokémon Go Plus with a quality level high enough to satisfy as many people as possible, we decided that it is necessary to take enough time for the completion. We ask for your understanding."

Of course, the delay has not had any effect on Pokémon GO's growing popularity. The app surged in downloads shortly after its official release in the U.S. occurred, and since then, over 30 countries have been infected by the game's widespread reach. It make sense then for Nintendo to want to cash in on the game's success, and as Pokémon GO Plus quickly sold through its pre-order availability, the company is just about guaranteed to make bank off its accessory. You know, once it actually hits stores.

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