'Pokemon GO' news update: Niantic session at GDC cancelled; field test of game to take place in Japan

Many "Pokemon" fans and tech enthusiasts are in for a bit of a disappointment as one event that might have been the venue for more "Pokemon GO" revelations has been cancelled.

John Hanke, the CEO at game studio Niantic, was scheduled to hold a 30-minute session on Monday, March 14, at the Game Developers Conference. Titled "Catch 'Em All: 'Pokemon GO' and Real World Gaming," the session was expected to highlight "how the company has developed a unique vision for delivering a mobile Pokemon experience that gets would-be trainers into the outdoors."

Moreover, the description of the session says, "Attendees will get a first-hand, in-depth look at how players are interacting and exploring the world with one another through Pokemon GO."

No reason has been given regarding the cancellation. Nonetheless, there is also news of a testing of the game in Japan.

On March 3, Niantic made an announcement that the company, along with The Pokemon Company, will be conducting a field test. The test is scheduled for the latter part of this month, and invited players in Japan will be able to try out the game and give feedback to help improve the experience.

According to Polygon, registration is now open, although this is limited to local players in Japan only. A Google account is required of those who wish to register, as well as having either an Android or iOS mobile device. Of course, confidentiality is part of the agreement.

While no information was disclosed regarding field testing in other areas, the announcement did say, "Please stay tuned for information about expansion of the field test to other markets."

Many gaming enthusiasts are undoubtedly eager to try out this new way of playing a video game, which combines the virtual world with the real one. With the use of their mobile devices, as well as the wearable accessory called Pokemon GO Plus, players can go out and try to capture Pokemon around their neighborhood or other areas, then train them for battle.

There is no official statement yet regarding the exact date of release of "Pokemon GO," although it is expected to happen this year.

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