Yesterday evening, I opened Pokémon GO again, went outside since the weather was nice, and hurriedly explored to level up. I remember it took months to reach level 30 when I first started playing, but now everything seems different with the level cap update. By the way, last week, a guy approached me while I was walking in the park and asked, ‘Are you playing Pokémon GO?’ I said yes, and it turned out he had already reached level 50, sharing some tips. Pretty cool, isn’t it? 🙂
Actually, these level changes make the game more enjoyable; after all, Niantic keeps updating it to prevent players from getting bored. For old players like me, reaching level cap 50 has become a major motivation, but it seems that earning XP has become a bit more difficult in the new system. Previously, leveling up was easy, but now friendship levels and special events come into play. I think this also enhances the social aspect, like playing together with friends.
Sometimes I wonder if these changes were really necessary. I think we were having enough fun with the old level system. Anyway, back to the main topic. If you search for ‘Pokémon GO level changes’, you’ll find plenty of information, Google ‘Pokémon GO level changes 2024’. Last month, I tried to go from level 40 to 41, spending 3-4 hours in the park, tiring my legs but it was worth it.
How Does the New Level System Work?
In the new system, the level cap has been increased to 50, but XP alone is no longer enough to reach it. You first need to increase friendship levels; for example, being best friends grants extra XP. This also involves sending gifts daily, around 20-30 gifts each day to boost your level. I think this is very clever because it turns the game into a social activity rather than just solo play. Sometimes finding friends is challenging, especially during the pandemic, so I joined online groups on Reddit.
By the way, I remembered last summer, I participated in a Pokémon GO event at a festival, reaching level 35 on that day as we ran around among the crowd. However, during a rainstorm, my phone got wet, and I couldn’t complete a leveling task, which was frustrating :(. In the new changes, for levels 41-50, mega evolutions and legendary Pokémon play a crucial role. For example, at level 45, there is a special research task that you need to complete to reach level 50.
Currently, I am at level 42, but I probably have more work to do to reach 50. Honestly, this system refreshes the game; we used to be stuck at level 40, but now there’s always a new goal. Isn’t that a great motivation? I also don’t remember all the details; I saw it on a website, Pokémon GO official site has the updates listed.
On reflection, these level changes also impact the game’s economy. Higher levels yield rarer items, and your Pokémon gyms are more powerful. I think it encourages players to spend more, although you can still progress for free. I haven’t bought a premium pass, I prefer to do everything through effort :).
Tips for Leveling Up Quickly
To level up faster, first complete daily tasks like walking 5 km or catching 10 Pokémon. Then add friends, which you can find through Discord groups. Lastly, participate in events, especially double XP days. It’s that simple—within 1-2 months, you’ll notice a difference. Also, on Reddit r/pokemongo community, everyone shares tips, the community is very active.
However, sometimes the system bugs out; for example, I experienced XP not counting after a level-up. Last Friday evening, I was about to reach level 43 when the app crashed. I restarted my phone, but the XP had disappeared. It was probably a connectivity issue. I contacted Niantic support, and they fixed it within two days. Do these problems frustrate you too?
Actually, the level cap update started back in 2018, but it has expanded further over the years. I believe the number of players who have reached level 50 has increased by around 10-15%, according to a news site I read. After all, these updates keep the game alive; otherwise, players would quit. Speaking of unrelated, I saw Pokémon trading cards at a market last month, and a kid was discussing level changes while his parents scolded him. Funny, isn’t it?
Every morning on my way to work, I open Pokémon GO on the bus and complete level tasks. On Saturday mornings, I wake up early, go to the park, take my coffee, and walk for two hours, sometimes increasing my level by a few steps. Those moments of victory are amazing; when I hit level 40, I messaged my friends, and we celebrated together. It’s an emotional moment, putting in hours of effort and finally succeeding :).
First, follow the event calendar on Niantic’s site. Then join raid groups using apps. Most importantly, be patient; level changes don’t happen overnight. Sometimes it takes 4-5 weeks for a new level, but the waiting makes it exciting.
Why Are These Changes Important?
I believe level changes determine the future of the game because Pokémon GO has been popular for 8 years, but without new content, players would get bored. The new level system introduces more content; for example, there are exclusive rewards at level 50, legendary Pokémon, and more. This also pleases developers, as the player count increases. Honestly, I’m satisfied, but some veteran players complain that it’s become harder.
It’s like, previously the maximum was level 30, but now it’s 50, so goals become bigger. Isn’t that a wonderful evolution? There’s also talk of a level 80 update, but I haven’t confirmed it. If you search for ‘Pokémon GO level 80 update’, discussions are ongoing. In my experience, these changes make the game more strategic; it’s no longer just about catching Pokémon randomly.
In the end, the Pokémon GO level change adventure continues, and I am striving to reach level 50. If you play too, add friends; we can raid together. This game has added color to my life, encouraged me to go outside, and is good for my health :). Anyway, see you in the next update.