Pokemon GO character modeling has been hit by consultant guidance

Recent updates to the globally popular mobile game "Pokémon GO" have sparked controversy among players. The introduction of the "Express Yourself in a New Way" character customization feature has been met with widespread criticism due to the forced change of player avatars. Overseas netizens and industry insiders allege that the development team, Niantic, received guidance from the LGBTQ+ consulting firm GaymerX, leading to the controversial alterations.


"Pokémon GO" announced a series of major updates starting from the 16th of this month, with the primary focus on revamping character appearances under the banner of "Express Yourself in a New Way." However, the overly gender-neutral designs and modules, along with other settings, have ignited a wave of negative responses in the international community. Many players have expressed dissatisfaction with the revamped character designs on platforms like Twitter and Reddit, garnering significant support from fellow gamers. It's noteworthy that transitioning from the old version to the new one does not result in extremely overweight avatars; such extreme body types emerged only after the update.


Mark Kern (@Grummz), former producer of games like "Diablo II" and "World of Warcraft," who frequently comments on the gaming industry on social media, has recently challenged various aspects of industry politics. He has criticized the extensive changes to character designs and complete gender-neutralization in "Pokémon GO," suggesting that Niantic's collaboration with GaymerX, a consulting company akin to Sweet Baby Inc., may have influenced these updates.

GaymerX, according to its official website, provides consulting and training services to the gaming industry, supporting LGBTQIA+ communities and cultures by promoting diversity, fairness, visibility, and inclusivity in games. Its clients include Niantic, the developer of "Pokémon GO," as well as Behaviour, the creator of "Dead by Daylight," and Volition, known for the "Saints Row" series.


While there's no explicit documentation detailing GaymerX's collaboration with Niantic or how it specifically influenced the character customization in "Pokémon GO," the focus of GaymerX on LGBTQIA+ issues, particularly transgender representation, aligns well with the game's updated gender-neutral character designs. This has led observers to speculate about GaymerX's significant influence on this update.

Regardless of the reasons behind Niantic's adoption of this character customization system, there seems to be no intention to revert to the old designs at present, leaving players with no choice but to accept the current settings. Whether this will impact revenue or player numbers remains to be seen.

Following the update to the "Express Yourself in a New Way" character customization system in "Pokémon GO," the "Better Visual Design" map interface update has been officially implemented. Additionally, from April 23, 2024, to May 10, 2024, at 11:00 (Taiwan time), the game will feature the "Return to the Kanto Region" event, offering trainers an opportunity to enjoy new adventures.