Pokemon GO launch in Japan delayed after e-mail leak

20 July 2016
Pokemon Go

Niantic has delayed the launch of Pokémon Go in Japan, which was set to happen later today, TechCrunch reported.

This comes after an e-mail from the game’s sponsor, McDonalds Japan, which contained the launch date, leaked on various forums.

McDonalds has agreed to become the first paying sponsor of the game, turning its 3,000 stores in Japan into Pokémon gyms where players can battle.

A morning launch was pushed back to the afternoon when the leak went viral, but the launch was postponed indefinitely over concerns that the hype generated would overload the game.

Citing sources, TechCrunch said that the launch was “imminent”, but unspecified, The Nikkei newswire reported that the Japanese launch could happen as early as Thursday (21 July).

More on Pokémon GO

The fastest way to level up in Pokemon GO

Players are selling their Pokemon GO accounts for over R5,000

This Pokédex battery case is the ultimate Pokemon GO gadget

This is why businesses want you to keep playing Pokemon GO

How to add Gyms and Pokestops to your area in Pokemon GO

You have read 1 out of 5 free articles. Log in or register for unlimited access.

Read now

The best gaming website in South Africa
MyGaming proudly displays the “FAIR” stamp of the Press Council of South Africa, indicating our commitment to adhere to the Code of Ethics for Print and online media which prescribes that our reportage is truthful, accurate and fair. Should you wish to lodge a complaint about our news coverage, please lodge a complaint on the Press Council’s website, www.presscouncil.org.za or email the complaint to [email protected] Contact the Press Council on 011 4843612.