Augmented reality (AR) technology has been around for several years now, but it was the launch of Pokémon Go in 2016 that truly brought it into the mainstream. This mobile game, which allows players to catch virtual creatures in real-world environments, served as an excellent example of how AR can be used to enhance gaming experiences and engage users in new ways.
What is Augmented Reality?
Before diving into the specifics of Pokémon Go and its use of AR, let’s first understand what augmented reality is. At its core, AR is a technology that overlays digital information onto the real world. This information can be in the form of graphics, animations, or sound effects, and it can be used to enhance the user’s experience of their physical surroundings.
AR is different from virtual reality (VR) in that it does not completely immerse the user in a simulated environment. Instead, it blends digital elements with the real world, allowing the user to interact with both physical and digital objects in a seamless manner.
How Pokémon Go Uses Augmented Reality
Now that we have a basic understanding of what AR is, let’s take a closer look at how Pokémon Go uses this technology to create an engaging gaming experience.
The game is set in the real world and encourages players to explore their surroundings in order to catch virtual creatures known as Pokémon. These creatures can be found in various locations around the city, such as parks, museums, and public landmarks. Players must use their smartphones’ cameras to scan their environment and locate these creatures, which will then appear on their screen.
One of the key ways that Pokémon Go uses AR is through its use of “gyms.” These are physical locations where players can battle other Pokémon in order to take control of the gym and earn points for their team. Gyms are often located in public spaces, such as parks or shopping centers, and they serve as a way to encourage players to explore their surroundings and interact with their community.
Another way that Pokémon Go uses AR is through its use of “lures.” These are virtual objects that can be placed in real-world locations by other players. When a lure is activated, it will attract nearby Pokémon to the area, making it easier for players to catch them. Lures are often placed in areas with high foot traffic, such as busy streets or popular shopping centers, and they serve as a way to encourage players to visit these locations and interact with their environment.
The Impact of Pokémon Go on Gaming
Pokémon Go had a massive impact on the gaming industry when it was first released, attracting millions of users around the world and becoming one of the most popular mobile games of all time. Its use of AR technology played a significant role in its success, as it allowed players to engage with their environment in a way that was both fun and interactive.
One of the key ways that Pokémon Go impacted gaming was by blurring the line between the real world and the virtual world. By encouraging players to explore their physical surroundings and interact with their community, the game helped to create a sense of social connection among players. This allowed people to bond over shared experiences and created a new form of social interaction that was unique to the world of gaming.
Another way that Pokémon Go impacted gaming was by encouraging players to be more active.
