Released in 2016, Pokemon GO is a free-to-play (f2p) mobile game that uses Augmented Reality (AR) to overlay Pokemon onto the real world. Players explore their surroundings to catch Pokemon, battle in Gyms, tackle the nefarious Team Rocket, trade Pokemon, and team up with other players to take down powerful monsters in Raids. Pokemon GO encourages exploration-focused gameplay, providing ample content to fans irrespective of their age.
Gameplay
Pokemon GO focuses on adventure and exploration in the real world. You encounter wild Pokemon as you walk around, and you need to throw Pokeballs by flicking your finger to capture them. You can level up your Pokemon, evolve them, teach them new attacks, and battle with other trainers in Leagues, or battle against PvE elements like Team Rocket and in Gyms.
Platforms
Pokemon GO is a mobile game that uses Augmented Reality. It is available on two platforms:
iOS
Android
Development
Pokemon GO originated as an April Fool’s joke by Google Maps in 2014. Niantic Labs, then a startup within Google, was tasked to turn the concept into a full-fledged independent game. In 2015, Niantic became an independent entity under Alphabet Inc. and launched Pokemon GO in July 2016 for mobile platforms only.
Microtransactions
Pokemon GO itself is free-to-play, but it contains microtransactions in the form of PokeCoins, the in-game currency. These coins can be used to buy various utilities like Pokeballs, healing, and other necessary items, and upgrades to storage spaces for both Pokemon and your items. PokeCoins can be bought using real money, however, it is not necessary as the game provides ample ways to earn PokeCoins from in-game activities.
FAQs
A. Pokemon GO has millions of active players in 2024, with developers providing frequent updates to keep the game fresh. Updates like new Pokemon, exciting events, and time-limited activities keep the game exciting for all players.
A. The basic concept of Pokemon GO is fairly easy to understand - you have to catch Pokemon in the real world. However, mastering mechanics like unique Pokeball throws, forming teams for battles, and having an impressive collection can add a layer of complexity that isn’t everyone’s cup of tea.
A. Mainline Pokemon games offer turn-based combat shaped like an RPG, which tells an intricate and exciting story. Pokemon GO takes a different route and focuses on real-world exploration and catching Pokemon. The strategizing and battle mechanics are also different, with Pokemon GO providing more live-service-focused combat as compared to the mainline titles which focus on more complex mechanics.
