Pokemon Go players around the world are engaged in a spirited discussion surrounding the recently introduced Masterwork Research in the popular mobile game. Niantic, the developers behind Pokémon Go, have presented trainers with an opportunity to undertake the #151 Masterwork Research and potentially encounter a coveted Shiny Mew. However, as players delve into the tasks required to complete the Masterwork Research, a heated debate has erupted regarding its accessibility and level of challenge.
One of the main points of contention stems from the perceived inaccessibility of the Masterwork Research for rural players. Many trainers living in less populated areas have voiced their frustration, claiming that the research tasks demand rare or foreign Pokémon that are only available in select continents. Notably, Pokémon such as Kangaskhan, Farfetch’d, and Mr. Mime can only be found in specific regions, leaving rural players feeling left out and, in some cases, accusing Niantic of “bullying” them.
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On the other side of the debate, some Pokémon Go trainers argue that the Masterwork Research is intended to provide a significant challenge. They contend that the name itself, “Masterwork Research,” suggests a more arduous and time-consuming endeavour, requiring dedication and perseverance. These players view the difficulty as an integral part of the experience, emphasizing that encountering Shiny Pokémon should remain a rare and special occasion.
A major point of frustration expressed by players involves the time-gating aspect of the Masterwork Research. Trainers are required to wait for specific raids, research tasks, or events to complete certain species, leading to a sense of uncertainty and dependency on unpredictable elements. This waiting game has been criticized for impeding progress and hindering the overall enjoyment of the game, especially when the tasks become inaccessible due to limited availability.
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To shed light on the accessibility debate, players have drawn comparisons with the Jirachi research, which was widely considered accessible to all players regardless of their location. This has raised questions about why the Masterwork Research, which offers a similar level of prestige, does not follow the same inclusivity approach. Trainers argue that the Jirachi research demonstrated that it is possible to strike a balance between challenge and accessibility.
While Niantic has yet to issue an official statement addressing the ongoing debate, the concerns raised by players regarding the Masterwork Research have garnered significant attention. The developers may be inclined to evaluate the feedback and make adjustments accordingly to strike a balance that satisfies both the desire for challenge and the need for accessibility.
With both sides presenting valid viewpoints, it remains to be seen how Niantic will address the concerns and shape the future of this highly debated feature in Pokemon Go.