In Pokemon GO, trainers are always on the lookout for updates and changes that could affect their gameplay. Recently, players have been facing unexpected issues in the mobile game, leading them to believe that potential changes to Poke Ball throws have been implemented, although no official confirmation has come from Niantic.
Since around May 2024, numerous trainers have reported experiencing difficulties and inconsistencies with their Poke Ball throws, raising questions and concerns within the community.
Note: Aspects of this article are subjective and solely reflects the writer's opinions.
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Pokemon GO Ball throw changes: Difficulties with throw accuracy
![Players facing difficulties with throw accuracy (Image via The Pokemon Company)](https://staticg.sportskeeda.com/editor/2024/06/f5825-17188280599015-1920.jpg?w=190 190w, https://staticg.sportskeeda.com/editor/2024/06/f5825-17188280599015-1920.jpg?w=720 720w, https://staticg.sportskeeda.com/editor/2024/06/f5825-17188280599015-1920.jpg?w=640 640w, https://staticg.sportskeeda.com/editor/2024/06/f5825-17188280599015-1920.jpg?w=1045 1045w, https://staticg.sportskeeda.com/editor/2024/06/f5825-17188280599015-1920.jpg?w=1200 1200w, https://staticg.sportskeeda.com/editor/2024/06/f5825-17188280599015-1920.jpg?w=1460 1460w, https://staticg.sportskeeda.com/editor/2024/06/f5825-17188280599015-1920.jpg?w=1600 1600w, https://staticg.sportskeeda.com/editor/2024/06/f5825-17188280599015-1920.jpg 1920w)
One of the primary issues Pokemon GO players have noted is an evident difficulty in landing Nice, Great, and Excellent throws. Many trainers feel that even when their throws seem perfect, they miss the target more frequently than before.
This has been a significant point of frustration, as these throw bonuses are crucial for maximizing catch rates and gaining extra experience points.
The issue was highlighted by Reddit user therealSteckel:
Pokemon GO Ball throw changes: Inconsistent throw distance
![Players struggle to reach Pokemon at a distance (Image via The Pokemon Company)](https://staticg.sportskeeda.com/editor/2024/06/850f8-17188289140044-1920.jpg?w=190 190w, https://staticg.sportskeeda.com/editor/2024/06/850f8-17188289140044-1920.jpg?w=720 720w, https://staticg.sportskeeda.com/editor/2024/06/850f8-17188289140044-1920.jpg?w=640 640w, https://staticg.sportskeeda.com/editor/2024/06/850f8-17188289140044-1920.jpg?w=1045 1045w, https://staticg.sportskeeda.com/editor/2024/06/850f8-17188289140044-1920.jpg?w=1200 1200w, https://staticg.sportskeeda.com/editor/2024/06/850f8-17188289140044-1920.jpg?w=1460 1460w, https://staticg.sportskeeda.com/editor/2024/06/850f8-17188289140044-1920.jpg?w=1600 1600w, https://staticg.sportskeeda.com/editor/2024/06/850f8-17188289140044-1920.jpg 1920w)
Another common complaint involves the distance of Poke Ball throws. Some players report that their Poke Balls either overshoot the Pokemon or fail to achieve the necessary "whip" effect for curveballs.
This inconsistency can make it challenging to adapt and reliably catch Pokemon, particularly those that are further away or more active.
Pokemon GO Ball throw changes: Possible collision bug
![Players reported ball disappearing before making contact (Image via The Pokemon Company)](https://staticg.sportskeeda.com/editor/2024/06/b272c-17188289250569-1920.jpg?w=190 190w, https://staticg.sportskeeda.com/editor/2024/06/b272c-17188289250569-1920.jpg?w=720 720w, https://staticg.sportskeeda.com/editor/2024/06/b272c-17188289250569-1920.jpg?w=640 640w, https://staticg.sportskeeda.com/editor/2024/06/b272c-17188289250569-1920.jpg?w=1045 1045w, https://staticg.sportskeeda.com/editor/2024/06/b272c-17188289250569-1920.jpg?w=1200 1200w, https://staticg.sportskeeda.com/editor/2024/06/b272c-17188289250569-1920.jpg?w=1460 1460w, https://staticg.sportskeeda.com/editor/2024/06/b272c-17188289250569-1920.jpg?w=1600 1600w, https://staticg.sportskeeda.com/editor/2024/06/b272c-17188289250569-1920.jpg 1920w)
Adding to the complexity, there appears to be a possible bug related to collision detection. Some Pokemon animations might cause the Poke Ball to disappear before it makes contact, resulting in a missed catch attempt.
This bug has not been officially acknowledged, but the reports from players suggest it could be affecting the overall throwing mechanics.
This issue was highlighted by Reddit user steak_dilemma:
Ball throw changes' impact on gameplay
These issues have significantly impacted gameplay for many trainers. The frustrations extend beyond just missing throws; players are also experiencing a notable drop in catch rates and XP gains.
Given that successful throws and consistent performance are essential for progressing in the game, these problems have led to widespread dissatisfaction among the community.
Players have been vocal about these changes, with many taking to forums and social media to share their experiences and theories. While some hope Niantic will address these concerns in future updates, others are seeking advice from fellow trainers on how to adjust their throwing techniques to mitigate the issues.
While there has not been any confirmed recent changes to Poke Ball throws in Pokemon GO according to official sources, the widespread reports from players suggest there may be underlying issues affecting the game mechanics.
Trainers experiencing difficulties with their throws should stay tuned for potential updates from Niantic and continue to share their experiences with the community. In the meantime, adjusting throwing techniques and staying informed through community discussions can help navigate these challenges.