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Pokemon GO‘s initial release was super big, players all over the world were roaming around parks to find their favorite Pokemon. The game captivated millions of hearts with its interactive and engaging gameplay.

The home screen of Pokemon GO

However, as time passed by, some players drifted away from the game, hoping to return and find the game in a better spot and with much more content to engage in. But there are still some stuff that remained the same from day 1, leaving a bad taste in the mouths of returning players.

Returning Player Criticizes the Buddy System Interface in Pokemon GO

Ever since its launch in 2016,Pokemon GOfrequently introduced many new features and events for players to participate in. However, there are some systems that are permanent and help players organize their things. One of those systems is the Buddy system, which is present since day 1.

This system was made toadd a new layer of interaction with their captured Pokemon. Players simply need to choose a Pokémon and then it will accompany them on their adventures. This not only helped in increasing affection with the Pokemon but also earned players some extra candies and experience.

8 Hours and ‘Bad Manners’ is All it Took for One Pokemon Go Player to Enact a Petty and Valid Revenge

8 Hours and ‘Bad Manners’ is All it Took for One Pokemon Go Player to Enact a Petty and Valid Revenge

However, one main issue of this system was its interface, which was heavily criticized by players for not being user-friendly. Reddit user doctor_hh posted a thread, explaining that they are coming back to the game after a few years break, but still finding the same clunky and terrible interface in the buddy system.

How is the “buddy” system still SOOO awful?byu/doctor_hhinpokemongo

The Image shows the interface of how to find and capture Pokemon in the game.

They even went ahead and asked the community if the system even received any Quality of Life updates in years. This has started a discussion in the community. The system is usually not useful (not used much) except when using multiple Pokemons for raids, then it requires several taps to perform simple actions, such as swapping buddies or feeding them berries.

This has not only become a big hassle for many players but also interferes during events or research tasks (when there is a need for interaction with buddy Pokemon). For any returning players, the neglect of this system can even create questions like why they even returned in the first place.

“It seems like a missed opportunity”: Niantic is Wasting Time and Money By Not Giving Pokemon Go Fans What They Want

Niantic Needs to Address the Long-standing Issues

Niantic has been super active in listening to player feedback and making required changes toPokemon GO. However, the lack of improvements to the buddy system raises a lot of questions about their priority. It is not a very popular system, for sure, but players still use it sothey need to make sure that it is in a better state than before.

“It seems like a missed opportunity”: Niantic is Wasting Time and Money By Not Giving Pokemon Go Fans What They Want

As for now, players are enjoying the latest update to the game with its 8th anniversary. There are many new things to try such asnew Mega Rayquaza Elite Raidsand a new Special Research Story to complete.

In the end, It is crucial that Niantic verify that they are focusing on small details like that as well and not just focus on new big updates.

The Atlantic Games Solutions for Today (August 19, 2025)

Have you bought the returning Special Research Story for Shiny Celebi inPokemon GO? Tell us in the comment section below.

Shubham Chaurasia

Gaming Writer

Articles Published :1368

At FandomWire, Shubham has spent over a year diving into the evolving world of live-service, action, and open-world games. Whether it’s the democratic galaxy of Helldivers 2 or finishing enemies in titles like Assassin’s Creed or Ghost of Tsushima, Shubham brings a sharp eye and genuine enthusiasm to everything he writes.When he’s not writing, you’ll probably catch him clutching rounds in Valorant or leaping off virtual cliffs into a pile of enemies for the perfect finisher. Outside of gaming, Shubham recharges by hitting the gym or heading out on long, spontaneous bike rides, always chasing the next open road. No matter the game or the gear, he’s always committed to bringing readers timely, accurate, and engaging updates from across the gaming industry.

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