Niantic Labs is finally adding new Pokemon from the Gold and Silver-era titles to its hugely successful mobile game Pokemon GO.

80 new Pokemon are expected to start appearing in-game at the end of this week. Teased Pokemon include the second-generation Starter Pokemon Chikorita, Cyndaquil, and Totodile.

Niantic is also introducing new gameplay elements to the title to entice players back. This includes new gameplay for Pokemon encounters, new items to use on Pokemon, and new customisation options for the player's avatar.

A momentous occasion

"Today is a momentous occasion for our team here at Niantic which has been hard at work to deliver these additional Pokemon and build upon the encounter and capture mechanics for our passionate global community of Trainers playing Pokemon GO,” said John Hanke, CEO of Niantic.

"Pokemon GO is a live experience which we’ll be continuing to support and evolve in new and interesting ways for years to come with new gameplay features, in-game and live events, more Pokemon to discover and much more."

The game is estimated to have achieved $1 billion in revenues as of January 31st. The much-awaited addition of newer Pokemon is sure to help draw churned players back and monetise remaining players.