Pokémon Go Players Express Discontent with AR Scanning Research Tasks

Pokémon Go, the wildly popular augmented reality mobile game, has captured the hearts of millions worldwide. However, not all aspects of the game are embraced equally by players. A certain category of Research Tasks involving AR scanning has recently drawn significant criticism from the Pokémon Go community.

Unpopular AR scanning tasks

Pokémon Go players are no strangers to Field Research tasks, which offer valuable in-game rewards like Rare Candy, Stardust, and evolution items. While many of these tasks are eagerly pursued, a particular set of quests related to AR scanning at PokéStops has left players frustrated and unenthusiastic.

One Reddit user, going by the name ‘bang_bros_r_us’, shared their sentiment in a post titled, “Anyone else just immediately throw scans away?” This post ignited a wave of agreement from fellow players who shared their displeasure with AR scanning tasks.

Technical challenges

Players have cited technical difficulties as a major source of frustration. Scanning tasks sometimes fail to upload correctly, leading to a feeling of wasted time. This issue has deterred many from attempting these tasks again.

Another significant concern revolves around privacy. Some players find themselves uncomfortable when tasked with scanning specific locations, especially private residences. The potential invasion of privacy has deterred them from engaging in these tasks.

Awkward encounters

There’s also the social aspect to consider. One player highlighted their reluctance, saying, “In my area, it keeps asking me to scan someone’s HOUSE. That is so creepy I’m not doing that Lolol.” The awkwardness of scanning someone’s personal property in public spaces has discouraged participation.

Players seeking a solution to the AR scanning dilemma have found a workaround. By keeping one uncompleted scanning task in their queue, they can free up space for more desirable regular Field Research tasks. This strategy has become a popular choice among players seeking to minimize the impact of scanning tasks on their gameplay.

Many players have stated that they would be willing to complete scanning tasks if the rewards were more enticing. The promise of “Rare Candy or Poffins” appears to be the driving factor for participation. Tasks offering less valuable rewards like Great Poké Balls are often dismissed as unworthy of the effort.

Mixed sentiments within the Pokémon Go community

It’s important to note that not all players share the same sentiment. Some are willing to tolerate and complete AR scanning tasks, especially if they yield worthwhile rewards. Pokémon Go’s diverse player community encompasses varying preferences and opinions on these tasks.

For Pokémon Go enthusiasts, the game is all about the quest for valuable rewards and the thrill of capturing elusive Pokémon. While AR scanning tasks may not be universally adored, they continue to be part of the game’s landscape. 

As the Pokémon Go community evolves, Niantic, the developer behind the game, faces the challenge of striking a balance between encouraging players to engage with AR technology and ensuring that tasks are enjoyable and respectful of privacy.

In the world of Pokémon Go, AR scanning tasks have become a divisive issue among players. While some players find these tasks cumbersome and invasive, others are willing to complete them if the rewards are enticing enough. Niantic will likely continue to evaluate and adjust these tasks to maintain a positive gaming experience for all players. In the end, the Pokémon Go community’s diverse opinions and preferences are a testament to the game’s enduring popularity.