Pokemon fans go crazy for Australian release of new real-world app
POKEMON GO is here. The new app that uses GPS in your smartphone to let you catch Pokemon in the real world was released in Australia yesterday. And ‘80s and ‘90s kids are going nuts for it.
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POKEMON GO is here!
The augmented reality game that allows players to capture Pokemon in the real world using their smartphone released fully in Australia and New Zealand yesterday.
Available on Android and iOS, Pokemon GO is what ‘80s and ‘90s kids who grew up playing Pokemon on their brick Gameboys have been waiting decades for.
Forget trying to catch ‘em all on some small screen. Get out there and become a Pokemon master in your own neighbourhood or your own home.
Pokemon GO uses GPS on your smartphone to find Pokemon in the real world as you walk down the street or cook dinner at home.
The game app allows you to catch Pokemon, raise them and battle other players. Real-world locations become designated PokeStops where you can go to buy items like PokeBalls.
Once players reach a certain level they’ll be asked to join one of three teams and create a Pokemon gym they then need to protect from rivals. In a nod to the original three game from the Pokemon franchise the teams are named simply red, blue and yellow.
The app also notes the geographical features around you, meaning you’re more likely to catch water Pokemon while near a park lake or at the beach.
The app was first noted in the app story yesterday to the excitement of gamers across the country but hasn’t come without warning from authorities.
A Darwin police station — designated as a PokeStop in the game — had to release a message alerting gamers they didn’t physically need to enter the station to access the stop.
In addition to that message, the police station also urged players to remain aware of their surroundings as they trek across town trying to catch various types of Pokemon.
There are real fears someone might step in front of a car while they are engrossed in the game.
In the meantime though, Pokemon fans Down under can rejoice at Pokemon GO’s release. We got it before the US did and players over there are fuming!
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