Niantic has unveiled its plans to celebrate the seventh anniversary of Pokémon Go with a week-long event featuring special bonuses and exciting activities.

Since its launch on July 6, 2016, Pokémon Go has been a dominant force in the mobile games industry, amassing an impressive $6 billion in player spending by its sixth anniversary. Although current revenue figures for the seventh anniversary are not yet disclosed, Niantic is determined to make it a memorable celebration.

Throughout the week, players can enjoy various special events, including bonuses for experience points, candy, and stardust. The distance required to hatch eggs will be halved, making it easier for trainers to hatch new Pokémon. Additionally, a Masterwork Research Story will be reintroduced, and different Pokémon will appear each day, including Squirtle and Pikachu sporting celebratory hats.

For avid collectors, the event offers an increased chance of encountering elusive shiny Pokémon, including all starter Pokémon from Bulbasaur to Fennekin.

Reflecting on Pokémon Go's journey so far, Niantic revealed some impressive statistics. Players have caught over 614 billion Pokémon in the game's seven years, while more than 11 billion Pokémon have been traded—a number equal to the total count of raid battles held. Pokémon Go is now available in over 150 countries and regions, surpassing the original number of Pokémon species.

Niantic expressed gratitude to all the Trainers who have been part of the journey, adventuring, exploring, and discovering more about Pokémon over the past seven years.

Niantic has forged several partnerships to enhance the real-world experience for players, even as they remain glued to their phones. Notably, the collaboration with Kung Fu Tea's 350+ shops in America ensures that Pokémon Go players stay refreshed while on their adventures.

Source: Aaron Astle, Staff Writer at PocketGamer