The world of gaming is constantly changing; some of the changes are new consoles or new series while some are revamped old favorites. One of the newest changes to the gaming world was the announcement of "Pokémon GO," a new app that allows users to catch Pokémon all over the world. The app, being developed by Niantic Labs, the Pokémon Company, and Nintendo, will be released in 2016 for Apple and Android devices.
The app is similar to geocaching, where users must locate spots in their region in order to find Pokémon. Pokémon could appear in your backyard, in the local park, or even a school. These Pokémon can be caught and traded on the phone, and users can declare battles on other users in their vicinity. This game will promote socialization through trading and meeting other users from all over the world. It also encourages gamers to get outside and to explore the real world rather than the alternative realities video games offer.
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Niantic Labs is known for producing "Ingress," an app that also allows users to interact with the real world. Monuments and landmarks are turned into portals from other universes and users become part of a sci-fi battle. Niantic Labs certainly has the experience needed to make "Pokémon GO" a success.
The idea for this game is fresh and original, completely different from all other Pokémon games. People are so attached to their phones and their handheld consoles that they often miss out on experiences in the real world. "Pokémon GO" is a perfect way to combine people’s love for video games with a franchise that has existed for about 20 years. More and more youth have access to smart devices, but it’s important for this generation to spend time outdoors as well.
The game can also be used with a device that vibrates and has flashing LEDs to alert users when they're close to finding a Pokémon. This element removes some screen time from the game and focuses more on immersing the user in their environment, making the game more realistic. This device uses Bluetooth to transmit signals to the Apple or Android device. The device also has a button to allow the user to throw Poké Balls without going back to their smartphone. "The Pokémon GO" Plus feature is a way to provide users with a more natural interactive experience. It makes the user feels like they are a Pokémon trainer searching for a new Pokémon to add to their team.
These types of interactive experiences are just what gaming needs. "Pokémon GO" is certainly a step in the right direction. As gaming evolves it’s more likely to become more interactive. When "Pokémon GO" is released next year, it’s sure to be a big hit, not just with youth but with adults who have loved this franchise for years.
