While Nintendo and developer Niantic have yet to come out with a specific release date for the upcoming "Pokémon GO" game, the augmented reality title is expected to come out soon. A seeming confirmation of a 2016 release is that the developer has already started the field tests for the beta app in Japan.
According to NintendoLife, the beta is already underway, with Japanese testers given the beta version of the app and at least 20 Pokéballs to use in the field. Reportedly, Niantic is looking to check out how the app's functions and features interact in a real-world scenario, with fan feedback thrown in.
Meanwhile, since the app has already been released, some fans can't help but data-mine the beta version, leading to initial details on the upcoming game. TechnoBuffalo stated that one of the features of the beta version (it is unclear if it will be changed in the final game) is that the data roster holds only the original 151 Pokémon from the first generation.
In addition to the database, general details on leveling up for both Pokémon and trainer are also reportedly included in the data dump. To level up, it seems that trainers will have to accomplish certain achievements like walking certain distances, capturing a number of Pokémon and the like, which will translate to medals in-game.
There also seem to be microtransactions involved for in-game items like Pokéballs and Pokémon training materials.
Meanwhile, the leaks continue to crop up online, pushing Niantic to adopt certain measures to keep the field tests as much a closed beta as possible. According to Serebii, upcoming testers are receiving an updated notification from Niantic, saying that they will be taken off the field tests should they reveal information about "Pokémon GO." The app itself will also not work outside of Japan.
