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Pokémon Go

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Pokémon GO is a mobile game that uses augmented reality (AR) technology.

Pokemon go fest
Pokemon go fest

AR is a way to overlay digital images onto the real world. The game was developed by Niantic in partnership with Nintendo and The Pokémon Company. It uses Global Positioning System (GPS) technology to track a player's real-world location. This allows digital creatures, called Pokémon, to appear on a map as if they are nearby. Players can use their phone's camera and gyroscope to view Pokémon in AR mode. This makes it look like the creature is actually standing in the player's environment.

Gameplay begins with the creation of a personal avatar.

Players can customize their avatar's appearance with various clothing, hairstyles, and skin tones. These avatars move across a digital map that reflects the player's actual physical movement. The map contains specific points of interest known as PokéStops and Pokémon Gyms. PokéStops allow players to collect helpful items like Potions or Poké Balls. Gyms are special locations used for team-based battles. Players must choose one of three color-coded teams: Team Valor, Team Mystic, or Team Instinct.

Pokestop in Alameda Central, Mexico City
Pokestop in Alameda Central, Mexico City

To catch a Pokémon, players do not use traditional combat. Instead, they must flick a Poké Ball toward the creature on their screen. The success of a catch depends on the Pokémon's specific catch rate, the player's timing, and the type of ball used. Once caught, players earn resources like Candy and Stardust. Candy is used to evolve Pokémon into stronger forms. Stardust is used to increase a Pokémon's Combat Power (CP). CP is a numerical measurement of a Pokémon's battle strength.

Pokémon Go Release Map
Pokémon Go Release Map

Players can also select a Buddy Pokémon to walk with them. Walking real-world distances helps the Buddy earn more Candy.

There are many different ways to battle in the game. Raid Battles occur at Gyms and involve fighting powerful, over-leveled Pokémon. These raids range from Level 1 to Level 5, with Level 5 reserved for Legendary Pokémon. Some raids, called Elite Raids, must be played in person and require large groups of people. Shadow Raids allow players to encounter Shadow Pokémon that may be "enraged" with higher stats.

Pokemon Go Revenue - BoA ST
Pokemon Go Revenue - BoA ST

For individual competition, the Go Battle League offers an online format. This uses an Elo rating system to match players for three-on-three battles. There are three main leagues: Great League, Ultra League, and Master League. These leagues are categorized by the maximum CP allowed in each match.

Since its launch in 2016, the game has grown significantly.

Nintendo Stock Value July 2016
Nintendo Stock Value July 2016

It initially launched with approximately 150 Pokémon species. By February 2026, the number of available Pokémon reached 946. The game has been a massive financial success, generating over 6 billion dollars in revenue by 2020. In 2025, the gaming division of Niantic was purchased by Scopely for 3.5 billion dollars. The game has reached over 1 billion downloads worldwide. This popularity has helped make location-based technology much more common in daily life.

While the game is widely loved, it has also faced challenges. The use of GPS and AR has led to some accidents and public disturbances. Some governments raised security concerns and created regulations for the game. Some PokéStops and Gyms were placed in sensitive areas, such as the Korean Demilitarized Zone.

Hsi Lai Temple no Pokemon go allowed
Hsi Lai Temple no Pokemon go allowed

However, the game continues to host large-scale social events. These events, such as Pokémon GO Fest, bring many players together in specific cities. These gatherings show how the game creates real-world social connections.

Pokémon GO connects digital collection with physical exploration. It combines elements of social interaction, fitness, and competitive strategy. The game has even moved into the world of professional esports. In 2022, it was included in the World Championships. This shows how a mobile game can become a serious global sport. By mixing the digital and physical worlds, it offers a unique way to experience the environment.

Pokémon Go sign on Ontario Highway 401 in Windsor, ON
Pokémon Go sign on Ontario Highway 401 in Windsor, ON
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🖼️ Images & Media (10)
File:John Hanke by Gage Skidmore.jpg
John Hanke by Gage Skidmore.jpg
File:Nintendo-Niantic-Pokemon-Go-Plus-wStrap.jpg
Nintendo-Niantic-Pokemon-Go-Plus-wStrap.jpg
File:Pokémon Go Release Map.svg
Pokémon Go Release Map.svg
File:Nintendo Stock Value July 2016.png
Nintendo Stock Value July 2016.png
File:Pokemon Go Revenue - BoA ST.png
Pokemon Go Revenue - BoA ST.png
File:Pokestop in Alameda Central, Mexico City.jpg
Pokestop in Alameda Central, Mexico City.jpg
File:Pokemon go stang alar.jpg
Pokemon go stang alar.jpg
File:Pokemon go fest.jpg
Pokemon go fest.jpg
File:Hsi Lai Temple no Pokemon go allowed.jpg
Hsi Lai Temple no Pokemon go allowed.jpg
File:Pokémon Go sign on Ontario Highway 401 in Windsor, ON.jpg
Pokémon Go sign on Ontario Highway 401 in...
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