TECHNOLOGY TIPS – Pokemon Go

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You may have heard of this latest craze called Pokemon Go. Released by IOS and Android, this free-to-play game has become a phenomenon almost overnight with mixed reviews. According to Wikipedia, the game allows players to capture, battle, and train virtual creatures, called Pokemon, who appear on device screens as though in the real world.

The game uses GPS and the camera on your mobile device. Once you log into the game for the first time, you will create your avatar, choosing gender, hair, skin, and eye color. Once you’ve created your avatar, you are entered into the game on a map. The map shows PokeStops and Pokemon gyms.  The stops allow players to acquire various tools to use when going to the gym for battles.

The game has had positive effects that are unexpected. Businesses have benefited from Pokemon stops, which Yelp has also included as a filter. Local police have been aided by players reporting crimes at several stops. As an interactive game, many players are going outdoors instead of staying inside while seated in front of a monitor.

It is still yet to be determined if Pokemon will make an appearance at the 2016 Olympic Games.

CATHY MALLERS & DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO