Pokemon Go fans have been treated to a surprise new feature, as Niantic launches an 8-bit pixel graphics update.
Hours after the launch of Pokemon Go’s brand new Research Quests, Niantic has released a new graphics update.
Pokemon will now be displayed as 8-bit sprites in the newsfeed, menu screens, Pokedex and nearby Pokemon section.
However, don’t expect it to stay this way for long, because it looks like an early April Fool’s joke.
“We always want to bring you the most immersive graphics experience possible, and we’re excited to share our latest breakthrough with millions of Pokemon GO Trainers around the world,” reads Niantic’s tongue in cheek blog post.
“Starting later today, you can be one of the first to experience this all-new graphics engine.
Experience Pokemon GO like never before with cutting-edge 8-BIT GRAPHICS!”
Niantic jokes that the new sprites register twice the definition of 4K, before encouraging fans to post images of their favourite 8-bit Pokemon.
“Registering approximately twice the definition of 4K, the chunky squares of each pixel provide realistic detail and unbelievable definition” the post continues.
“Your Pokédex will feel lifelike in ways previously unimagined on any handheld device ever created.
“We feel 100% confident in saying that you’ve never seen Pokemon like this in Pokemon GO!
“We’re looking forward to your feedback on this brand-new feature. Tell us your thoughts on our latest update with #PokemonGO, and be sure to include a picture of your favourite Pokemon!”
The news comes just hours after the launch of Research Quests in Pokemon Go.
As part of the new update, players will be able to complete research tasks by spinning PokeStops and communicating with Professor Willow.
Tasks include capturing certain Pokemon, winning battles and taking part in Raids. Players will receive stamps by completing tasks, not to mention rewards and even rare Pokemon encounters.
This includes an encounter with the Mythical Pokemon Mew.
