The Pokémon franchise has been a beloved part of many people’s lives for decades, with its iconic games, anime series, and trading card game. One of the most innovative and exciting accessories to come out of the franchise in recent years is the Poké Ball Plus. Released in 2018, the Poké Ball Plus was a unique device that allowed players to catch Pokémon in a more immersive way than ever before. However, with the release of new Pokémon games and accessories, many fans are wondering: did they discontinue the Poké Ball Plus?
A Brief History Of The Poké Ball Plus
The Poké Ball Plus was first announced in May 2018, alongside the Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee! games for the Nintendo Switch. The device was designed to work in conjunction with these games, allowing players to catch Pokémon in a more interactive way. The Poké Ball Plus was shaped like a Poké Ball, the iconic device used by Pokémon trainers to catch and store their Pokémon. It had a motion sensor and a button, which players could use to throw virtual Poké Balls and catch Pokémon.
The Poké Ball Plus was also compatible with the Pokémon Go mobile game, allowing players to use it to catch Pokémon in the game. It was a unique and innovative device that brought a new level of immersion to the Pokémon franchise.
Features And Functionality
The Poké Ball Plus had several features that made it a must-have accessory for Pokémon fans. Some of its key features included:
- Motion controls: The Poké Ball Plus had a motion sensor that allowed players to throw virtual Poké Balls by moving the device.
- Button controls: The device had a button that players could use to throw Poké Balls or interact with Pokémon.
- Vibration feedback: The Poké Ball Plus had vibration feedback, which made it feel like players were really catching Pokémon.
- LED lights: The device had LED lights that lit up when players caught a Pokémon or when the device was low on battery.
Did They Discontinue The Poké Ball Plus?
So, did they discontinue the Poké Ball Plus? The answer is a bit complicated. While the Poké Ball Plus is no longer widely available in stores, it is still possible to purchase it online from some retailers.
In 2020, Nintendo announced that it would be discontinuing the Poké Ball Plus, citing low sales and a desire to focus on other accessories. However, it seems that some retailers may still have stock of the device, and it is still available for purchase online.
It’s worth noting that the Poké Ball Plus is no longer compatible with the latest Pokémon games, including Pokémon Sword and Shield. This may be a factor in the device’s discontinuation, as it is no longer supported by the latest games in the franchise.
Alternatives To The Poké Ball Plus
If you’re looking for a similar accessory to the Poké Ball Plus, there are a few alternatives available. Some options include:
- The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller: While not specifically designed for Pokémon games, the Pro Controller is a high-quality controller that can be used to play Pokémon games on the Nintendo Switch.
- The Pokémon Go Plus: This device is designed specifically for Pokémon Go and allows players to catch Pokémon and interact with the game without needing to look at their phone.
Conclusion
The Poké Ball Plus was a unique and innovative accessory that brought a new level of immersion to the Pokémon franchise. While it is no longer widely available, it is still possible to purchase it online from some retailers. If you’re looking for a similar accessory, there are a few alternatives available, including the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller and the Pokémon Go Plus.
In conclusion, while the Poké Ball Plus may be a thing of the past, it will always be remembered as a unique and innovative accessory that brought a new level of excitement to the Pokémon franchise.
Final Thoughts
The Poké Ball Plus may be discontinued, but it will always be a beloved accessory among Pokémon fans. Its unique design and innovative features made it a must-have accessory for anyone who loved the Pokémon franchise.
If you’re a Pokémon fan who is looking for a new accessory to enhance your gaming experience, there are many options available. From the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller to the Pokémon Go Plus, there are many devices that can help you catch Pokémon and interact with the game in new and exciting ways.
So, while the Poké Ball Plus may be a thing of the past, the Pokémon franchise will always continue to innovate and excite fans with new games, accessories, and experiences.
What Is The Poké Ball Plus?
The Poké Ball Plus is a unique gaming accessory designed for Pokémon games, particularly Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Pokémon: Let’s Go, Eevee! for the Nintendo Switch. It is shaped like a Poké Ball and allows players to catch Pokémon and interact with the game in a more immersive way. The device also includes a built-in accelerometer and gyroscope, enabling motion controls and a more engaging gaming experience.
The Poké Ball Plus can also be used with the Pokémon Go mobile game, allowing players to catch Pokémon and collect items without needing to look at their phone screens constantly. This accessory has been well-received by Pokémon fans, offering a fun and innovative way to play Pokémon games.
Is The Poké Ball Plus Still Supported By Nintendo?
Although the Poké Ball Plus was a popular accessory when it was first released, its support has been somewhat limited in recent years. Nintendo has not discontinued the device, but it is no longer a central part of their Pokémon gaming strategy. The company has shifted its focus to other gaming accessories and technologies, such as the Nintendo Switch Lite and the latest Pokémon games.
However, the Poké Ball Plus is still compatible with Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Pokémon: Let’s Go, Eevee!, and players can continue to use it with these games. Additionally, the device can still be used with Pokémon Go, although some features may not be as seamless as they once were.
Can I Still Buy A Poké Ball Plus?
Yes, the Poké Ball Plus is still available for purchase from various retailers, both online and in-store. However, the availability of the device may be limited, and prices may vary depending on the retailer and location. Some retailers may also offer refurbished or used Poké Ball Plus devices, which can be a more affordable option for those who still want to experience the unique features of this accessory.
It’s worth noting that the Poké Ball Plus may not be as widely available as it once was, and some retailers may have discontinued sales of the device. If you’re interested in purchasing a Poké Ball Plus, it’s a good idea to check with multiple retailers to find the best option.
Is The Poké Ball Plus Worth Buying?
Whether or not the Poké Ball Plus is worth buying depends on your gaming preferences and needs. If you’re a fan of Pokémon games and want a unique and immersive gaming experience, the Poké Ball Plus may be a great option. The device offers a fun and interactive way to play Pokémon games, and its motion controls and accelerometer add a new level of engagement to the gaming experience.
However, if you’re looking for a more traditional gaming experience or are not particularly interested in Pokémon games, the Poké Ball Plus may not be the best choice. Additionally, the device’s limited compatibility with newer Pokémon games may be a drawback for some players.
What Are Some Alternatives To The Poké Ball Plus?
If you’re looking for alternatives to the Poké Ball Plus, there are several options available. One option is the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, which offers a more traditional gaming experience with advanced features like HD rumble and motion controls. Another option is the Nintendo Switch Lite, a handheld-only version of the Nintendo Switch that offers a more portable gaming experience.
Additionally, there are several third-party gaming accessories available that offer similar features to the Poké Ball Plus, such as motion controls and immersive gaming experiences. These accessories may not be specifically designed for Pokémon games, but they can still offer a fun and engaging gaming experience.
Will There Be A New Version Of The Poké Ball Plus?
There has been no official announcement from Nintendo regarding a new version of the Poké Ball Plus. The company has shifted its focus to other gaming accessories and technologies, and it’s unclear whether they will continue to support the Poké Ball Plus in the future.
However, it’s possible that Nintendo may release a new version of the Poké Ball Plus in the future, potentially with updated features and compatibility with newer Pokémon games. If you’re interested in a new version of the Poké Ball Plus, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on Nintendo’s official announcements and updates.
Can I Use The Poké Ball Plus With Other Nintendo Games?
The Poké Ball Plus is primarily designed for use with Pokémon games, particularly Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Pokémon: Let’s Go, Eevee!. However, the device can also be used with other Nintendo games that support motion controls and accelerometer features.
Some examples of games that may be compatible with the Poké Ball Plus include Mario Tennis Aces, Mario Golf: Super Rush, and Ring Fit Adventure. However, the device’s compatibility with these games may be limited, and some features may not work as seamlessly as they do with Pokémon games.