It was no mystery that the City of Los Angeles just suffered a major tragedy with the wildfires last month, and a lot of people are still trying to recover from the calamity.
Despite this, it looks like Niantic is pushing forward with their planned Pokemon Go Fest, but the studio isn’t being completely insensitive about it.
Pokemon Go Fest is Still Happening
In a recent statement from Niantic (via VGC), it’s been confirmed that the event is still going to move forward at the Rose Bowl Stadium and Brookside Golf Course in Pasadena.
“Our team has been watching the situation in Los Angeles, and prioritizing the safety and well-being of Pasadena, the greater Los Angeles area, and our Pokémon Go community… In partnership with the Rose Bowl Operating Company and local authorities, we have made the decision to continue holding the in Pokémon Go Tour: Unova Los Angeles experience.”
Besides the designated locations, there are also said to be several places around the city that will be part of a city-wide quest.
“You Get a Refund, Everybody Gets a Refund”
Not to be completely insensitive to the recent tragedy, Niantic is also said to offer a no-questions-asked refund to anyone who had bought a ticket to the event.
They are offering a $30 refund for anyone who has bought a ticket, but it’s important that they submit a request before February 23—when the event takes place.
Supporting the Local Community
Though it does seem insensitive that Niantic would push forward with their event, it’s possible that the city could use the business, especially with several people expected to come to LA and participate in Pokemon Go Fest.
Niantic also promises that they will be doing something to ‘support the local community,’ but as of now, it looks like they’re still figuring everything out, and they promise to share their plans ‘on a later date.’
What Can Fans Expect at Pokemon Go Fest?
So far, it looks like Niantic has a lot planned for the event itself even before the fires came about last month. For now, Pokemon Go is currently undergoing the Dual Destiny Season, and it’s expected to end on March 4.
At the event, players will get to take a look at the upcoming season of content, and they’re also promised to see the debut of two legendary Pokemon, Black Kyurem and White Kyurem.
No doubt there are also probably some exclusive content that would only be accessed at the event for players. After all, Pokemon Go is a game about walking and going to specific locations, and you can bet that players are going to make the most out of the event if they want to capture anything rare that will only be available at Pokemon Go Fest.
For more information on the event, you can check out the official site here.
Pokemon Go Fest is set to take place in LA, California on Feb. 23.