More on Wayfarer (and Links to Pokémon Go)

As noted yesterday, PokéStop nominations in Pokémon Go are now integrated (and inextricably linked) with Niantic Wayfarer, the system for collecting and reviewing the nominations, not just from Pokémon Go but also from other games, such as Ingress Prime - in that sense, they are known as nominations for a "Waypoint", the generic term for them. Usage of Wayfarer is obviously now required, but there are also finer points to that usage that also should be explained, especially in further relations to Pokémon Go.

First off, Wayfarer is only accessible by way of Google or Facebook login, so a Trainer needs to have linked (that is, bound) either one to their Trainer account. In my case, I finally had to link or bind the former to my account, which started with only a PTC login. Of course, one also has to meet the level requirement to access Wayfarer, and that has to be met regardless of the login account requirement. Once both are met, Wayfarer is then open for access.

To make further nominations, one also has to take and pass the test that also allows the review of others' nominations. The test serves as a check of understanding of nomination criteria, which are numerous but somewhat obvious, though the test may incorporate them in subtle ways; if one is not observant, one may not be able to pass. That happened to me, as I had to take the test three times before I passed and could make nominations again. It should be noted that if one reviews nominations poorly, one will need to take the test again, but that shouldn't happen with objective intent.

By accessing Wayfarer, one can also see the list of made nominations and their states; these are actually somewhat descriptive, and I may utilize them when I update my progression next time. The textual particulars of a nomination in the state of "In Queue" can also be edited if the need arises. Further, a nomination can be "upgraded" or at the least marked for such, which will promote the nomination further in reviews and help to accelerate the process, though the "upgrade" has to be earned through the review of other nominations, as the main objective for participating in the system.

Reviewing is not a total must, but in light of the above, it may be necessary (and must necessarily be conducted properly regardless). It maintains one's Wayfarer rating, which is important for posterity in the system. Most significantly, review "agreements" also count towards an achievement medal in Pokémon Go, and this may be the best incentive for participating in the Wayfarer system, aside from making more nominations.

With Niantic Wayfarer, it might seem that the nomination process for Pokémon Go (and other Niantic games) has gotten somewhat more complicated, and in some ways, it might be. Yet in effect, the process is also centralized, streamlined, and even beneficial for those still devoted to Pokémon Go. In that sense, the integration may be quite justified, further with its primary intent and the links and nifty things that are brought to Pokémon Go. That further justifies the process of nominating places itself and expanding the overworlds.

One year ago: Road of 25th Anniversary: Beckoning Specials

Two years ago: The State of Nominations, Part 3

Three years ago: Tournament: Raid Group Cup

Four years ago: Lugia Raid Burnout

Five years ago: Ice Is Nice with Pokémon