Pokémon GO Updated With Global Map Refresh

Niantic has announced that it will be updating the global Pokémon GO map with better visuals and an adjusted Pokémon spawn rate.

Pokémon GO Global Map Refresh Niantic
Pokémon GO gets a long-awaited global map refresh. | © Niantic

It's been three long years since the last update to the Pokémon GO map. Since then, the world and our surroundings have changed. So to keep the game up to date, Niantic will be rolling out a global update for the in-game map to better "connect your exploration of the world" around you with what you see in Pokémon GO.

Due to the large-scale nature of the update, Niantic will be gradually rolling out changes. So, you might be able to notice changes to the in-game map over the next few weeks.

Pokémon GO Gets A Global Map Refresh

Better Visual Pokemon
Get ready for a massive new update to the map and the spawn rate of Pokémon! | © Niantic

The in-game map will more accurately reflect your physical environment with this update. This includes the removal of old roads, the addition of recently constructed buildings, and a better layout of the map.

The global map refresh does not appear to remove Pokéstops or Gyms. But it will affect spawns, nests, and roads.

This update is not purely visual as it will also adjust the appearance frequency of Pokémon. This means you'll see the same number of Pokémon as before in densely populated areas, but they'll be spread out more evenly. On top of that, you will also see Pokémon appear in different locations such as rural and rapidly expanding areas. This will increase the number of Pokémon that appear in the game overall.

Stay up to date with the latest Pokémon GO news and guides:

Ivan Shahran

Ivan is the Content Lead for MobileMatters and provides coverage for titles such as Clash of Clans, Brawl Stars, Clash Royale, and Wild Rift. In his role, he has written guides and news pieces and attended competitions such as ESL's Snapdragon Pro Series....