Pokémon Go maker Niantic launches Ingress subscription option

Ingress, the original game from Pokémon Go developer Niantic, has finally unveiled its optional paid subscription.

The long-awaited development has now led to discussion in the Pokémon Go community about the launch of a similar subscription offer, and what features may be included.

Named CORE (which stands for Community, Offers, Recognition, Expansion), the Ingress subscription costs $4.99/month and includes an inventory expansion, a monthly stipend of in-game credits and items, an exclusive medal and profile flair, and the ability to view your inventory and portal keys remotely via the game’s intel map.

INGRESS C.O.R.E. SUBSCRIPTION Watch on YouTube

Niantic first mentioned it was working on subscriber features for the free-to-play Ingress over a year ago, and has planned its launch in discussion with members of the game’s community.

Over the past year, code relating to a Pokémon Go subscription offer has also repeatedly surfaced via fan groups such as PokeMiners, which constantly scour the game’s files. Niantic is yet to publicly state it is working on such a feature.

Still, some players have suggested Pokémon Go’s subscription offer could look similar to Ingress’ own, since the games share numerous features and types of gameplay.

In Pokémon Go, as in Ingress, inventory expansion is a much-asked for addition. Currently you can upgrade your storage to fit 4000 Pokémon and 3000 items with PokéCoins you either buy or earn from gym control. (Every four days of gym coins, you can unlock a further 50 inventory spaces up to the max.) A big boost to this for subscribers would likely be popular – and appeal directly to the more committed player who may consider a subscription offer.