The Twitch Plays Pokémon craze may be over as viewership has fallen since the start of the second-generation game on March 2.

The Twitch Plays Pokémon series has been touted as a social experiment following its launch in mid-February with the Pokémon Red Version. More than 36 million viewers have tuned in to the 16 days of gameplay in the Kanto region, which saw Red obtain all eight gym badges, capture of Zapdos, defeat of the Elite Four, and demise of Blue's short reign as Pokémon League Champion.

The 16 days saw over 100,000 viewers live with hundreds, or thousands, controlling Red's every move and consultation with the Helix Fossil.

But with the start of Pokémon Crystal Version, fanfare seemed to have slipped. While Twitter accounts are still active updating the events in the Johto region, viewership and participation might not be as strong as the Kanto adventure. Three days into Pokémon Crystal Version, the stream has hit only over live 20,000 viewers, which is down compared to the 80,000-plus seen during Pokémon Red Version.

What has led to the decline?

It could be fatigue. The Twitch Plays Pokémon is entering its third week (18 days), and the Johto adventure has so far been less dramatic as the first 16 days. Gamers have also captured the first five Johto badges within in three days and five hours. In comparison to the first game, the five badges were obtained in eight days and seven hours.

As of the third day and hour 15, gamers are on their way to obtain their sixth gym badge from Steel-type specialist Jasmine. Gamers have already lost to the Olivine City gym leader on one occasion already.

By Olivine City, gamers have obtained 17 Pokémon including two by hatching (Smoochum and Togepi), on loan (Shuckie), and received (Eevee). In addition, two Pokémon have been released as Sentret and Drowzee were given their marching orders on day one and day two respectively.

Vs. Goldenrod City Gym Leader Whitney:

Vs. Ecruteak City Gym Leader Morty:

Vs. Cianwood City Gym Leader Chuck:

Twitch Plays Pokémon, however, still provided memorable moments during its three week run so far. Most of the memorable moments, let's be honest, were from the Pokémon Red Version gameplay with the false prophet Eevee/Flareon, Keeper Drowzee, Battery Jesus Zapdos, Helix Fossil/Omastar, and Bird Jesus Pidgeot. The Pokémon Crystal Version gameplay has yet to generate as much hype or characters as the first 16 days.

Have you been keeping up with the stream?

Twitch Plays Pokémon Crystal Version Live Stream:

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For the latest updates, follow Latin Post's Michael Oleaga on Twitter: @EditorMikeO

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