Pokémon Go fans, rejoice! A new, limited-time opportunity to level up your gameplay is here with the Go Pass: April. But here’s the catch – not everyone can get in on the action. Let’s break down what this new pass is all about and whether it’s worth investing in.
What is the Go Pass: April?
For those who remember the excitement around the Go Tour Unova event, Niantic is bringing back a familiar face – the Go Pass, but this time, it’s even more exclusive. The Go Pass: April is a test run, available only to select players. While it operates similarly to its predecessor from the Unova Tour, there are some key differences that make this pass worth exploring.
From April 1 at 10 a.m. to May 6 at 10 a.m. (local time), you can embark on a journey filled with new challenges, rewards, and surprises. However, it’s important to note that this is a test phase, so if you’re not one of the lucky players selected to experience it, you might have to wait for the full release.
How Does the Go Pass: April Work?
At its core, the Go Pass: April functions like its Unova counterpart. But here’s where things get interesting – Niantic has added a layer of variation to keep things fresh. If you’re lucky enough to get your hands on the pass, you’ll notice that there are subtle differences from player to player. Reports on The Silph Road suggest that even players within the same region can receive different versions of the pass.
Here’s a breakdown of what we know so far:
- Varying Rewards: Niantic has confirmed that rewards may differ between passes. This includes unique encounters, item rewards, and even varying ranks.
- Catch Points: Depending on which version of the pass you have, catching Pokémon may reward you with fewer points. On the flip side, hatching eggs could give you more points.
- Rank Differences: Some players are seeing passes with 50 ranks, while others have 100 ranks. This can impact the overall progression and rewards you can unlock.
- Daily Point Limits: The daily point cap fluctuates between 100 and 300, so your ability to earn points might vary depending on your pass.
You’ll need to keep an eye on your own pass for specific details regarding the challenges and rewards.
Rewards in the Go Pass: April
One of the biggest draws of the Go Pass is the potential rewards. While it’s difficult to give a definitive list since the rewards can vary greatly between players, we do know that some pretty exciting things are up for grabs.
- Xerneas Encounter: Players who reach the 50-rank or 100-rank level on the free track will unlock a chance to encounter Xerneas, the Fairy-type Legendary Pokémon. For those on the paid track, the Lucky Trinket awaits.
- Premium Items: Alongside Xerneas, expect to earn a range of premium Pokémon Go items like rare candies and various encounter bonuses. Keep an eye on the events screen for a detailed list of what’s available in your pass.
However, as the rewards vary, you’ll need to check the in-game events to see exactly what’s available for your pass. The encounters, especially, are a bit of a mystery, but you can sometimes deduce them based on the nearby candy rewards.
Is the Deluxe Go Pass Worth It?
The deluxe version of the Go Pass: April will set you back $7.99. So, is it worth it?
In terms of raw value, the deluxe pass is “worth it” by the standards of Pokémon Go’s pricing structure. The more you progress through the pass, the more rewards you can unlock, including premium items and the coveted Lucky Trinket.
But let’s be honest – the rewards might leave some players underwhelmed. There’s no Super Incubators, no additional Star Pieces, and the encounters seem a bit hit or miss. Some players have complained about the lackluster assortment of items and Pokémon encounters. And without guaranteed exceptional IVs on the Lucky Trades, you might find yourself questioning whether it’s truly worth the investment.
The Lucky Trinket itself adds a unique twist, but its value depends entirely on how much you care about performing Lucky Trades. The item allows you to guarantee a Lucky Pokémon when traded, but there’s no promise that the Pokémon will have fantastic IVs. If you’re hoping for a perfect Gigantamax Charizard, this might not be your ticket to greatness.
How Long Do You Have to Complete the Pass?
If you’re eyeing the deluxe version, there’s some flexibility. You don’t need to purchase the pass immediately to start earning rewards. As long as you pick up the deluxe pass before May 8 at 10 a.m. (local time), you can still claim all rewards that you would have unlocked if you’d bought the pass earlier. So, if you’re unsure about the value, you can hold off and decide later.
Ultimately, the Go Pass: April adds an extra layer of fun for those fortunate enough to access it. If you’re someone who loves completing daily challenges and collecting unique rewards, the deluxe pass might be a good fit. But if you’re not sold on the rewards, it might be worth skipping this round and waiting for the next big event.
