Is Pokémon GO Plus Worth It? A Comprehensive Analysis

Since its release, Pokémon GO Plus has become a global phenomenon, captivating players of all ages with its unique blend of augmented reality and exploration-based gameplay. With the introduction of accessories like Pokémon GO Plus, players have an opportunity to enhance their experience and streamline their gameplay. But the question remains: Is Pokémon GO Plus worth it? In this comprehensive analysis, we’ll delve into the features, benefits, and potential drawbacks of Pokémon GO+ to help you determine whether it’s a worthwhile investment for your Pokémon journey.

Understanding Pokémon GO Plus:

Pokémon GO Plus is a wearable device designed to complement the Pokémon GO mobile app, providing players with a convenient way to interact with the game without constantly checking their smartphones. The device connects to your smartphone via Bluetooth and notifies you of nearby Pokémon and PokéStops through LED lights and vibrations. While Pokémon GO doesn’t offer full gameplay functionality, it allows players to catch Pokémon, collect items from PokéStops, and track distance traveled for Egg hatching—all with minimal effort.

Pros of Pokémon GO Plus:

1. Convenience: One of the primary benefits of Pokémon GO+ is its convenience. With the device strapped to your wrist or clipped to your clothing, you can easily interact with the game while on the go, without the need to constantly stare at your smartphone screen. This makes it ideal for activities like walking, running, or commuting, where it may be impractical to hold your phone at all times.
2. Battery Efficiency: Pokémon GO Plus is designed to conserve battery life on your smartphone by offloading certain gameplay functions to the wearable device. By relying on Pokémon GO+ to track distance traveled and perform basic interactions, you can extend the battery life of your smartphone and enjoy longer gaming sessions without worrying about running out of power.
3. Increased Engagement: For players who want to stay engaged with Pokémon GO+  throughout the day but may not have the luxury of dedicating constant attention to the game, Pokémon GO+ offers a solution. By receiving notifications for nearby Pokémon and PokéStops, players can seize opportunities to catch Pokémon and collect items whenever they arise, enhancing their overall engagement with the game.

Cons of Pokémon GO Plus:

1. Limited Functionality: While Pokémon GO Plus provides convenience and increased engagement, it comes with limitations in terms of gameplay functionality. For example, players cannot engage in Gym battles or use specialized Poké Balls (such as Great Balls or Ultra Balls) when using Pokémon GO+. This may be disappointing for players seeking a more comprehensive gameplay experience.
2. Catch Rate and Accuracy: Pokémon GO Plus uses a standard Poké Ball to attempt to catch Pokémon automatically, without the player’s direct input. However, the catch rate and accuracy of Pokémon GO+ may be lower compared to manually throwing Poké Balls in the game. As a result, players may miss out on opportunities to catch rare or high-level Pokémon when relying solely on Pokémon GO+.
3. Cost: Pokémon GO Plus is sold as a separate accessory, which means players must incur an additional cost to purchase it. While the price of Pokémon GO+ may vary depending on factors such as location and availability, some players may hesitate to invest in the device, especially if they’re unsure of its value proposition.

Is Pokémon GO Plus Worth It? Ultimately, whether Pokémon GO+ is worth it depends on your individual preferences, playstyle, and priorities as a Pokémon GO player. If you value convenience, battery efficiency, and increased engagement with the game, Pokémon GO+ may be a worthwhile investment. It’s particularly well-suited for players who lead active lifestyles and want to incorporate Pokémon GO into their daily routines without being tethered to their smartphones.

However, if you prioritize full gameplay functionality, control over catching Pokémon, and maximizing catch rates, you may find Pokémon GO+ lacking in certain aspects. In such cases, you may prefer to stick to manual gameplay using the Pokémon GO app on your smartphone.

Ultimately, the decision to purchase Pokémon GO+ should be based on your personal preferences and how you envision integrating it into your Pokémon GO experience. Whether you’re a casual player looking to enhance your gameplay or a dedicated Trainer seeking new ways to enjoy the game, Pokémon GO+ offers a unique and convenient way to embark on adventures in the world of Pokémon GO.