Pokemon Go, the mobile game about catching virtual critters, is finally getting the series' second generation of Pokemon.

Niantic Inc, the game's developer, announced that new Pokemon, such as Togepi, Pichu and selected others, from the Johto region in Pokemon Gold and Silver video games will be available from today (Dec 13) onwards.

Unfortunately, players cannot catch these new Pokemon in the wild. Instead, they will need to hatch them from eggs picked up at Pokestops.

In addition, there will be a limited edition of everyone's favourite Pokemon Pikachu wearing a Santa hat all over the world for Pokemon trainers to catch from now till Dec 29.

Many Pokemon Go fans were expecting the entire 100 plus second generation Pokemon to be available, as rumours were rife about it. But it looks like the entire second generation Pokemon will be introduced over several months.

Furthermore, with the onset of winter in many countries, the decision by Niantic to have these second generation Pokemon attainable only by hatching through walking is sure to be met with plenty of criticisms.

At least there is a Santa Pikachu to catch for now.