Pokémon GO artist Jason Marino explains the hopeful 2021 screen

If there is one thing and only one thing Pokémon GO fans can get along, it’s this: the art of the loading screen is absolutely amazing. These displays started off beautiful and got better over the years, helping Niantic set the tone for events, holidays, and entire seasons with artwork depicting everyday Pokémon and trainers in various settings. Yesterday, as the clock struck 12 o’clock and brought in the New Year, the loading screen was updated with a new image that seems more than just a way to set the tone for 2021. Instead , with an image reminiscent of the very first episode of Pokemon anime, it seemed like the picture signified a hopeful new beginning… something I believe most would agree that we need. Now, Pokémon GO artist Jason marino, the creator responsible for this screen, explained the thought process that led to this striking and inspiring image.

Jason Marino, responsible for several of these beloved loading screens, took to his Twitter to explain this image to Pokémon GO trainers:

This @ PokemonGoApp New Years loading screen was something I had to do… Let me explain.

Painting a loading screen isn’t about creating a pretty picture or an excuse to hug my inner nerd. Instead, it’s an outing, to have a loading bar moment with you. A moment to bring something positive and, hopefully, memorable.

For this year, it was a time to bring HOPE.

From the rise of the Phoenix to passing storms. The light at the end of the tunnel and the start of a new journey (totally Pokemon Ep1). 2020 has been a year we would like to forget. He brought many “OMG!” moments and took us to some really low places.

As someone who has been through a lot on my own, I can say with confidence, with positive energy, a pinch of courage and a hopeful bucket, there is no dark place / obstacle that we cannot. can overcome!

So hopefully there will be some light at the end of this storm and hope this loading screen reminds you of that too. To everyone in the world, hold your head up high and Happy New Year!

It’s a message I think we can all feel deeply.

The episode Marino refers to is the very first in the series, where Ash struggles to bring an injured Pikachu into town so he can be taken to the Pokémon Center. They are pursued by a herd of aggressive Spearow as a storm rages, slowing them down. As the Spearows are about to grab Ash, who tries to target himself to save Pikachu, Pikachu sees Ash’s heroism and gathers the strength to shock the Spearow. After that, Ash and Pikachu pass out and wake up to a new day, as they see a Ho-Oh, a then completely unknown Pokémon, soar to a rainbow, shining and golden, meaning a new day.

Happy New Year, dear trainers.