Pokémon Go is planning to add an in-game item that automatically catches Pokémon, without you having to lift a finger.
Mention of a new Explorer Gadget item has popped up in the game’s code, datamined by the ever-reliable PokeMiners. “A gadget that automatically throws Pokéballs and spins PokéStops for you while exploring,” reads its description.
These abilities are available in-game already, but only for those who have bought the game’s pricey physical accessories, such as the Go Plus device and its various other versions. (Cheaper, unofficial alternatives also exist, though with varying quality.)
The ability to take advantage of the same auto-catching and spinning abilities without the need to pay $100 for a plastic gadget will undoubtedly be attractive to some players, who look for a faster way to get ahead.
But the question here will be how the Explorer Gadget is made available within Pokémon Go, and how much of a premium that developer Niantic will put on its use. On Pokémon Go fan reddit TheSilphRoad, players are already theorizing that the Explorer Gadget will be made available similar to other ultra premium items in the game, such as the Infinite Incubator, or stat-boosting Bottle Caps. These are doled out sparingly, with limited use, as part of event passes that sometimes cost upwards of $15.
“A virtual Go++ isn’t the worst idea they have had,” wrote Pokémon Go fan _martin_n, referencing one of the game’s many official peripherals. “I just have a feeling there will be tiers and hidden fees. $5 and it throws regular, $10 and it throws great, and ultra. Then for Wild Area there is a $2.50 “upgrade” for Safari balls. And who knows what else they can up with. I hope for the best but I’m prepared for the worst!”
“People are going to pay to *not* play this game,” suggested big_sugi. “That’s peak monetization.”
Others said that this likely provided a far better option for autocatching than the pricey Go+ peripherals, several models of which light up, vibrate and even make Pikachu sound effects — things that hardcore players frequently mod their device to silence.
“This is so much better than a physical Go++,” concluded leetnoob7. “I have one and even with the vibration motor cut off and tape over the speaker to lower the Pikachu sleep sound volume, it’s still annoying I have to have another device with me, keep it charged, and open PoGo every hour to reconnect it (when I remember and am bothered). I’d pay a one-off $100 for this premium item, or a monthly subscription of $5.”
Time will tell how the Explorer Gadget item is rolled out and ultimately sold to players, but so far the response to its idea seems cautiously positive.
Tom Phillips is IGN’s News Editor. You can reach Tom at tom_phillips@ign.com or find him on Bluesky @tomphillipseg.bsky.social
