This week, Pokémon Go gets its biggest update since launch
UPDATE: 80 new Gold and Silver Pokémon are now live.
UPDATE 16/02/2017 11.24pm: Gold and Silver Pokémon are now live. It looks like our Tom Phillips has even snagged a few out in the wild.
As you can see, such creatures include Hoot-Hoot, Ledyba, Swinub and Gligar. Legend has it that our Ian Higton even captured a Sneasel.
Here are the full patch notes for what's been added:
- Over 80 additional Pokémon originally discovered in the Johto region can be caught.
- Gender-specific variations of select Pokémon can be caught.
- Added new encounter mechanics.
- Added Poké Ball and Berry selection carousels to the encounter screen.
- Added two new Berries.
- Added new avatar outfit and accessory options.
- Added new night-mode map and encounter music.
- Added bonus Candies for catching Evolved Pokémon.
- Implemented Apple Watch connection stability improvement.
- Various bug fixes.
- Minor text fixes.
ORIGINAL STORY 15/02/2017 12.23pm: Pokémon Go this week gets its largest update since launch, with new mechanics, items and at least 80 more creatures from Gold and Silver's Johto region.
Creatures included in the update include Johto starters Chikorita, Cyndaquil and Totodile, Eevee evolutions Umbreon and and Espeon, and other Gold and Silver favourites such as Hoppip, Murkrow and Donphan.
You'll find these new critters out in the wild, along with two new Berry items. The Pinap Berry will double your candy received if you a catch a Pokémon. The Nanab Berry will slow a tussling Pokémon's movements.
Interestingly, Pokémon Go developer Niantic is also adding evolution items to the game - the kinds of things which allow Porygon or Onix to evolve into their stronger forms.
Your trainers will also become more customisable, with hats, shirts, trousers and accessories to adapt your look.
It's unclear, however, how many of these items you'll be able to obtain simply by playing the game (and how easily you'll get them) - versus how many will be sold via the in-app shop.
"Today is a momentous occasion for Pokémon Go as we welcome more Pokémon and build upon the encounter and capture mechanics for the passionate global community of Trainers playing the game," said Niantic boss John Hanke. "Pokémon Go is a live experience which we'll be continuing to support and evolve in new and interesting ways for years to come."
Now, legendary Pokémon, please?