Pokémon GO

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Revision as of 11:51, 21 June 2017 by SnorlaxMonster (talk | contribs) (Undo revision 2658027 by Kubson302 (talk)Premium Raid Pass should still be listed as an item, not just a Shop purchase)
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If you were looking for the song, see Pokémon Go! (song).
Pokémon GO
Pokémon GO
Pokemon Go Logo.png
Pokémon GO logo
Basic info
Platform: iOS, Android
Category: Real-world adventure
Location-based game
Players: 1+
Connectivity: N/A
Developer: Niantic, Inc.
Publisher: Niantic, Inc.
Part of: Generation VI miscellaneous
Ratings
CERO: N/A
ESRB: E
ACB: PG
OFLC: N/A
PEGI: 3
GRAC: 3
GSRR: N/A
Release dates
Japan: March 29, 2016 (field test)
July 22, 2016 (public release)
North America: May 25, 2016 (field test)
July 6, 2016 (public release)
Australia: April 25, 2016 (field test)
July 6, 2016 (public release)
Europe: July 13, 2016
South Korea: January 24, 2017
Hong Kong: July 25, 2016
Taiwan: August 6, 2016
Websites
Japanese: Official site (TPC)
Official site (Niantic)
English: Official site (TPCi)
Official site (Niantic)
Pokémon.com
Bulbanews
Bulbanews has multiple articles related to this subject:
StrategyWiki
StrategyWiki has more about this subject:

Pokémon GO (Japanese: Pokémon GO) is a multiplayer, location-based, augmented reality Pokémon game for iOS and Android. The game results from a collaboration between The Pokémon Company, Nintendo, and Niantic, Inc., and is free to download with in-app purchases. It was released in most markets with access to the iOS App Store or Google Play Store on a staggered schedule starting on July 6, 2016.

The game was announced at a press conference in Japan on September 10, 2015. Field tests for Pokémon GO were held from March 29, 2016 through June 30, 2016.

The game is compatible with the Pokémon GO Plus, a Bluetooth device that allows players to enjoy elements of the game without looking at their phone. Compatibility with the Apple Watch was added in an update on December 22, 2016.

Blurb

Venusaur, Charizard, Blastoise, Pikachu, and many other Pokémon have been discovered on planet Earth!

Now’s your chance to discover and capture the Pokémon all around you—so get your shoes on, step outside, and explore the world. You’ll join one of three teams and battle for the prestige and ownership of Gyms with your Pokémon at your side.

Pokémon are out there, and you need to find them. As you walk around a neighborhood, your smartphone will vibrate when there’s a Pokémon nearby. Take aim and throw a Poké Ball… You’ll have to stay alert, or it might get away!

Search far and wide for Pokémon and items

Certain Pokémon appear near their native environment—look for Water-type Pokémon by lakes and oceans. Visit PokéStops, found at interesting places like museums, art installations, historical markers, and monuments, to stock up on Poké Balls and helpful items.

Catching, hatching, evolving, and more

As you level up, you’ll be able to catch more-powerful Pokémon to complete your Pokédex. You can add to your collection by hatching Pokémon Eggs based on the distances you walk. Help your Pokémon evolve by catching many of the same kind.

Take on Gym battles and defend your Gym

As your Charmander evolves to Charmeleon and then Charizard, you can battle together to defeat a Gym and assign your Pokémon to defend it against all comers.

It’s time to get moving—your real-life adventures await!

Note: This app is free-to-play and is optimized for smartphones, not tablets.

Gameplay

Encountering a wild Rattata, with AR mode disabled (Prior to 0.55.0 version)

In the game, wild Pokémon appear on a map of the real world, with the player moving in the game by travelling in the real world. When a Pokémon is nearby, the player's phone vibrates. The player can encounter a nearby Pokémon by tapping it in the Map View. Different kinds of Pokémon will appear in different environments; for example, Water-type Pokémon are more common near water. The player is assisted by Professor Willow throughout the game. Players can login using a Pokémon Trainer Club account or a Google account.

In a wild encounter, the player attempts to capture a wild Pokémon in a Poké Ball before it runs away. Unlike in the core series games, these encounters do not involve battle. At higher levels, the player can use Razz Berries to make wild Pokémon easier to catch or use more powerful Poké Balls like Great Balls and Ultra Ball. While holding a press on a Poké Ball, a ring will appear around the Pokémon. This ring shrinks over time; once it reaches its smallest size it immediately returns to full size and the cycle repeats. If the Poké Ball is thrown while the ring is very small, the capture is more likely to be successful.

The game can be played as an augmented reality (AR) game, so that in wild encounters and Gym battles the Pokémon appear to be in the real world when looking at the smart device's screen. However, it is also possible to disable this functionality, which saves battery power and is necessary on some devices which do not support AR.

Catching and hatching Pokémon earns the player Candy, which can be spent to evolve or Power Up Pokémon. Each evolutionary family has its own type of Candy, so in order to evolve a Pokémon the player needs to catch a number of Pokémon from that same evolutionary family. If a player wants to get rid of a Pokémon, they can transfer it to Professor Willow, who will permanently keep the Pokémon but give 1 Candy in return. Catching and hatching Pokémon also earns the player Stardust, which also needs to be expended to Power Up Pokémon; unlike Candy, there is only one type of Stardust for all Pokémon.

There are two main types of locations in Pokémon GO: PokéStops and Gyms. PokéStops and Gyms exist at pre-defined real world locations, and the player must be within range of them in order to interact with them (although they can be inspected as long as they shown up in the Map View). Players can obtain items and Eggs by visiting PokéStops, whereas players fight for control of Gyms.

Players can customize their appearance, such as clothing and accessories, which can be shown to other players. Pokémon Trainers collect XP from performing various actions, such as catching Pokémon, which allows them to increase their Trainer level. Leveling up rewards the player with items, and some levels unlock features of the game. Wild Pokémon encountered by Trainers at higher levels are more likely to have higher CP. The maximum number of times an individual Pokémon can be Powered Up increases with the Trainer's level.

PokéCoins can be obtained in-game or via in-app purchases with real money. They can be traded for extra items and other enhancements.

Available Pokémon

Only Pokémon introduced in Generation I and II are available in the game. Evolved Pokémon can be caught in the wild, but baby Pokémon cannot. Currently, all Generation I and II Pokémon, except Smeargle, Delibird, and Legendary and Mythical Pokémon, can be obtained in the game.

On November 23, 2016, Ditto became available in the game (appearing disguised as Pidgey, Rattata, Zubat, or Magikarp).

On December 12, 2016, almost all Generation II baby Pokémon became available in the game, exclusively from Eggs (specifically, Pichu, Cleffa, Igglybuff, Togepi, Smoochum, Elekid, and Magby). Togetic became available in the game exclusively by evolving Togepi.

On February 16, 2017, most remaining Generation II Pokémon became available in the wild. Generation I Pokémon that have Generation II cross-generational evolutions can now evolve into those evolutions. Togetic can now appear in the wild. Wild Ditto can appear disguised as Hoothoot, Sentret, and Yanma as well.

On March 22, 2017, Shiny Magikarp became available in the wild; Shiny Gyarados is also available by evolving Shiny Magikarp.

Availability

The player may choose from the three Kanto starter Pokémon at the beginning of the game: Bulbasaur, Charmander, or Squirtle. If the player walks away from the starter Pokémon four times, Pikachu will also appear as a possible starter Pokémon. These Pokémon may also be found in the wild later on.

Which Pokémon Eevee evolves into is normally random. However, if Eevee is nicknamed after one of the Eevee brothers before evolving, it will evolve into their respective evolution: Sparky for Jolteon, Rainer for Vaporeon, and Pyro for Flareon.[1] If Eevee is named after two of the Kimono Girls' anime names, it will evolve into their respective evolution: Sakura for Espeon and Tamao for Umbreon. This can only be done once per evolution.

Farfetch'd, Kangaskhan, Mr. Mime, Tauros, and Heracross appear to be region-exclusive, currently only being found in Asia, Australia, Europe, North America, and Central/South America respectively. Corsola is also a region-exclusive, appearing between latitude 26° S and 31° N.

Locations

There are two main types of locations in Pokémon GO: PokéStops and Gyms. PokéStops and Gyms exist at pre-defined real world locations, and the player must be within range of them in order to interact with them (although they can be inspected as long as they shown up in the Map View).

The locations of PokéStops and Gyms are based on a selection of portals from the Niantic game Ingress. Until 2015, Ingress players could submit proposals for portals which subsequently had to be approved by Niantic.

PokéStops allow players to obtain items and Eggs by spinning the Photo Disc. At Gyms, players can battle to weaken those belonging to opposing teams or strengthen those belonging to their own team; a player can earn Stardust and PokéCoins by holding onto Gyms. PokéStops are much more common than Gyms.

Depending on where a player lives, PokéStops and Gyms may be very common or very sparse, tending to be more common in urban areas due to a higher population density resulting in more Ingress players in those areas. If there are no nearby PokéStops, the player can only obtain Poké Balls by leveling up or purchasing them with PokéCoins; if there are no nearby Gyms, the player can only obtain PokéCoins by purchasing them with real currency.

Teams

The Team Leaders, Candela, Blanche and Spark.

After the player reaches level 5, they can choose a team by tapping a Gym. There are three teams: Team Instinct (yellow) whose leader is Spark, Team Mystic (blue) whose leader is Blanche, and Team Valor (red) whose leader is Candela. A Gym can only be controlled by one team at a time. If a Gym is controlled by the player's team, they can train at it and add one of their own Pokémon to defend it. If a Gym is controlled by a rival team, the player can battle it to decrease its Prestige; when a Gym's Prestige reaches zero, any nearby player can claim it for their own team.

Pokémon Appraisal, added in version 0.35.0 (labelled version 1.5.0 on the iOS App Store), has the chosen Team's leader detail a Pokémon's stats much like a stats judge in the core series. They describe how good the Pokémon would be in a battle, which of its three stats is its highest, and how good its stats are overall. They will also note if the Pokémon's height or weight is particularly far from the average listed in the Pokédex.

Emblem Team Color Legendary bird Leader Description
Team Instinct emblem.png Instinct Yellow Zapdos Spark Hey! The name's Spark — the leader of Team Instinct. Pokemon are creatures with excellent intuition. I bet the secret to their intuition is related to how they're hatched. Come and join my team! You never lose when you trust your instincts!
Team Mystic emblem.png Mystic Blue Articuno Blanche I am Blanche, leader of Team Mystic. The wisdom of Pokemon is immeasurably deep. I am researching why it is that they evolve. With our calm analysis of every situation, we can't lose!
Team Valor emblem.png Valor Red Moltres Candela I'm Candela — Team Valor's leader! Pokemon are stronger than humans, and they're warmhearted, too! I'm researching ways to enhance Pokemon's natural power in the pursuit of true strength. There's no doubt that the Pokemon our team have trained at the strongest in battle! Are you ready?

PokéCoins

A PokéCoin
Main article: PokéCoin

PokéCoins are the in-app currency used in Pokémon GO. There are two ways of obtaining PokéCoins: the Gym Defender bonus or by purchasing them with real money.

To obtain the Defender bonus, the player must open the Shop menu and tap the shield icon while they have a Pokémon in at least one Gym. They will earn Stardust and 10 PokéCoins for each Gym they currently hold (up to a maximum of 10 Defenders per bonus; including extra Stardust and 100 Pokécoins), being able to obtain this bonus once every 21 hours.

Items

Key Items

The following items are in the player's Bag by default. They have no quantity and cannot be tossed.

Image English name Japanese name Description
GO Camera.png Camera カメラ
Camera
When you encounter Pokémon in the wild, you can use your camera to photograph them.
GO Egg Incubator Infinity.png Egg Incubator ∞ ムゲンふかそうち
Infinite Egg Incubator
A device that incubates an Egg as you walk until it is ready to hatch. Unlimited use!

Standard items

These items can be obtained by spinning the Photo Disc at PokéStops or Gyms, by leveling up, or by purchasing them from the shop (which methods are possible varies between items). The player also starts with several standard items in their Bag.

Image English name Japanese name Unlock requirements Description
GO Potion.png Potion キズぐすり
Wound Medicine
Level 5 A spray-type medicine for treating wounds. It restores the HP of one Pokémon by 20 points.
GO Super Potion.png Super Potion いいキズぐすり
Good Wound Medicine
Level 10 A spray-type medicine for treating wounds. It restores the HP of one Pokémon by 50 points.
GO Hyper Potion.png Hyper Potion すごいキズぐすり
Amazing Wound Medicine
Level 15 A spray-type medicine for treating wounds. It restores the HP of one Pokémon by 200 points.
GO Max Potion.png Max Potion まんたんのくすり
Tank-Filling Medicine
Level 25 A spray-type medicine for treating wounds. It will completely restore the max HP of a single Pokémon.
GO Revive.png Revive げんきのかけら
Vitality Fragment
Level 5 A medicine that can revive fainted Pokémon. It also restores half of a fainted Pokémon's maximum HP.
GO Max Revive.png Max Revive げんきのかたまり
Vitality Clump
Level 30 A medicine that can revive fainted Pokémon. It also fully restores a fainted Pokémon's maximum HP.
GO Lucky Egg.png Lucky Egg しあわせタマゴ
Lucky Egg
None A Lucky Egg that's filled with happiness! Earns double XP for 30 minutes.
GO Incense.png Incense おこう
Incense
None Incense with a mysterious fragrance that lures wild Pokémon to your location for 30 minutes.
GO Poké Ball.png Poké Ball モンスターボール
Monster Ball
None A device for caching wild Pokémon. It's thrown like a ball at a Pokémon, comfortably encapsulating its target.
GO Great Ball.png Great Ball スーパーボール
Super Ball
Level 12 A good, high-performance Poké Ball that provides a higher catch rate than a standard Poké Ball.
GO Ultra Ball.png Ultra Ball ハイパーボール
Hyper Ball
Level 20 An ultra-high performance Poké Ball that provides a higher catch rate than a Great Ball.
GO Lure Module.png Lure Module ルアーモジュール
Lure Module
None A module that attracts Pokémon to a PokéStop for 30 min. The effect benefits other people nearby.
GO Razz Berry.png Razz Berry ズリのみ
Zuri Fruit
Level 8 Feed this to a Pokémon, and it will be easier to catch on your next throw.
GO Nanab Berry.png Nanab Berry ナナのみ
Nana Fruit
Level 4* Feed this to a Pokémon to calm it down, making it less erratic.
GO Pinap Berry.png Pinap Berry パイルのみ
Pairu Fruit
Level 18 Feed this to a Pokémon to recieve more Candy when you catch it.
GO Dragon Scale.png Dragon Scale りゅうのウロコ
Dragon Scale
Level 10 A scale that can make certain species of Pokémon evolve. It is very tough and inflexible.
GO King's Rock.png King's Rock おうじゃのしるし
King's Symbol
Level 10 A rock that can make certain species of Pokémon evolve. It looks like a crown.
GO Metal Coat.png Metal Coat メタルコート
Metal Coat
Level 10 A coating that can make certain species of Pokémon evolve. It is a special metalic film.
GO Sun Stone.png Sun Stone たいようのいし
Sun Stone
Level 10 A peculiar stone that can make certain species of Pokémon evolve. It burns as red as the evening sun.
File:GO Up-Grade.png Up-Grade アップグレード
Upgrade
Level 10 A transparent device that can make certain species of Pokémon evolve. It was produced by Silph Co.
GO Egg Incubator.png Egg Incubator ふかそうち
Incubator
None A device that incubates an Egg as you walk until it is ready to hatch. Breaks after 3 uses.
GO Raid Pass.png Raid Pass レイドパス
Raid Pass
None
GO Premium Raid Pass.png Premium Raid Pass プレミアムレイドパス
Premium Raid Pass
None Allows player to take part in Gym Raids multiple times a day.

Raid rewards

These items can only be obtained as rewards for defeating a Raid Boss.

Image English name Japanese name Unlock requirements Description
GO Fast TM.png Fast TM わざマシンノーマル
Normal Move Machine
Level 15 This Technical Machine item is used to teach your Pokémon a new Fast Attack. Your Pokémon will acquire a new Fast Attack and forget their old Fast Attack.
GO Charged TM.png Charged TM わざマシンスペシャル
Special Move Machine
Level 25 This item works like the Fast TM but it teaches the Charged Attack instead of a Fast Attack. Remember, the Charged Attack is performed by pressing and holding during battle.
GO Rare Candy.png Rare Candy ふしぎなアメ
Mystery Candy
Level 5 The Rare Candy can transform into Candy for any Pokémon. For example: when used on a Pikachu, one Rare Candy turns into one Pikachu Candy.
GO Golden Razz Berry.png Golden Razz Berry きんのズリのみ
Gold Zuri Fruit
Level 5 Feed this to a wild Pokémon to make it much easier to catch. Feed this to a Pokémon on a Gym to fully restore its motivation.
GO Premier Ball.png Premier Ball プレミアボール
Premier Ball
Premier Balls are used to catch Raid Bosses after defeating them.

Upgrades

These are upgrades that increase the storage capacity of certain aspects of the game. They can be purchased with PokéCoins.

Image English name Japanese name Description
GO Bag Upgrade.png Bag Upgrade パックアップグレード
Pack Upgrade
Increases the max number of items you can carry by 50.
GO Storage Upgrade.png Pokémon Storage Upgrade ポケモンボックスアップグレード
Pokémon Box Upgrade
Increases the max number of Pokémon you can carry by 50.

Experience

Main article: Experience → Pokémon GO

In Pokémon GO, the player earns experience (abbreviated XP), rather than the Pokémon. As the player gains experience they gain levels. Leveling up awards the player with items, and certain levels unlock particular items. After reaching level 5, the player can choose a team, which allows them to use Gyms. As the player's level increases, their Pokémon are able to achieve a higher Combat Power as the player powers them up.

Eggs

A 2 km egg in Pokémon GO (originally used for Eggs of all distances)
Main article: Pokémon Egg → Pokémon GO

The player can obtain Eggs at PokéStops. An Egg will hatch after traveling a certain distance while the Egg is in an incubator. Three Egg distances are possible: 2 km, 5 km, and 10 km. Each species has a set Egg distance and can only hatch from Eggs with this distance.

Buddy

A Buddy Pokémon
Main article: Buddy Pokémon

By assigning a Buddy Pokémon, the player can receive additional Candies for that species of Pokémon as they walk. Depending on the species, the Buddy Pokémon will find 1 Candy every 1 km, 3 km or 5 km walked. The player can only have a single Buddy Pokémon at once.

Medals

Main article: Medal → Pokémon GO

The game has challenges that award medals upon completion. Medals can be viewed from a player's profile.

Daily bonuses

Daily bonuses were added to Pokémon GO in version 0.45.0 (labelled 1.15.0 on the iOS App Store), which was released on November 7, 2016. Daily bonuses give the player extra rewards if they perform certain actions each day (local time).

The first Pokémon the player catches each day earn the player a bonus 500 XP and 600 Stardust. If the player catches a Pokémon every day for 7 days in a row, they will earn a bonus of 2500 XP and 3000 Stardust.

The first PokéStop the player searches each day earn the player a bonus 500 XP and extra items. If the player searches PokéStops every day for 7 days in a row, they will earn a bonus of 2500 XP and even more items. The 7-day streak bonus is more likely to give the player Evolution items such as the King's Rock.

Shop

PokéCoins

PokéCoins can be purchased with real money at the following rates.

Image PokéCoins United States Canada Eurozone United Kingdom Australia New Zealand Japan Hong Kong Taiwan
GO 100 PokéCoins.png 100 $0.99 $1.39 €0.99 £0.99 $1.49 $1.49 ¥120 $8.00 $30
GO 550 PokéCoins.png 550 $4.99 $6.99 €4.99 £4.99 $7.99 $7.49 ¥600 $38.00 $150
GO 1200 PokéCoins.png 1,200 $9.99 $13.99 €9.99 £9.99 $14.99 $14.99 ¥1200 $78.00 $300
GO 2500 PokéCoins.png 2,500 $19.99 $27.99 €19.99 £19.99 $30.99 $29.99 ¥2400 $158.00 $590
GO 5200 PokéCoins.png 5,200 $39.99 $54.99 €39.99 £38.99 $62.99 $59.99 ¥4800 $318.00 $1,190
GO 14500 PokéCoins.png 14,500 $99.99 $139.99 €99.99 £99.99 $159.99 $149.99 ¥11,800 $788.00 $2,990

Items

PokéCoins can be exchanged for in-game items at the following rates:

Image Item Purchase Cost Effect
GO Poké Ball.png Poké Ball 20 Poké Balls 100 PokéCoins Standard Poké Balls to catch wild Pokémon!
100 Poké Balls 460 PokéCoins
200 Poké Balls 800 PokéCoins
GO Incense.png Incense 1 Incense 80 PokéCoins Incense with a mysterious fragrance that lures wild Pokémon to your location for 30 minutes.
8 Incense 500 PokéCoins
25 Incense 1250 PokéCoins
GO Lucky Egg.png Lucky Egg 1 Lucky Egg 80 PokéCoins A Lucky Egg that's filled with happiness! Earns double XP for 30 minutes.
8 Lucky Eggs 500 PokéCoins
25 Lucky Eggs 1250 PokéCoins
GO Lure Module.png Lure Module 1 Lure Module 100 PokéCoins Modules that attracts Pokémon to a PokéStop for 30 min. The effect benefits other people nearby.
8 Lure Modules 680 PokéCoins
GO Egg Incubator.png Egg Incubator 1 Egg Incubator 150 PokéCoins A device that incubates an Egg as you walk until it is ready to hatch. Breaks after 3 uses.
GO Bag Upgrade.png Bag Upgrade 1 Bag Upgrade 200 PokéCoins Increases the max number of items you can carry by 50.
GO Storage Upgrade.png Pokémon Storage Upgrade 1 Pokémon Storage Upgrade 200 PokéCoins Increases the max number of Pokémon you can carry by 50.
GO Premium Raid Pass.png Premium Raid Pass 1 Premium Raid Pass ??? PokéCoins Allows player to take part in Gym Raids multiple times a day.

Limited-time items

The following items are only available for a limited time:

Image Item Purchase Cost Availability
GO Special Box.png Special Box 10 Great Balls, 2 Egg Incubators 250 PokéCoins December 25 to 30, 2016
GO Great Box.png Great Box 20 Great Balls, 2 Incense, 4 Egg Incubators 550 PokéCoins December 25 to 30, 2016
GO Ultra Box.png Ultra Box 20 Ultra Balls, 25 Incense, 6 Egg Incubators 1500 PokéCoins December 25 to 30, 2016
GO Bronze Box.png Bronze Box 100 Poké Balls, 8 Lure Modules 460 PokéCoins December 30, 2016 to January 3, 2017
GO Silver Box.png Silver Box 8 Incense, 8 Lucky Eggs, 8 Lure Modules 980 PokéCoins December 30, 2016 to January 3, 2017
GO Gold Box.png Gold Box 50 Great Balls, 25 Incense, 25 Lucky Eggs, 16 Lure Modules 2480 PokéCoins December 30, 2016 to January 3, 2017

Music

Some of the music in Pokémon GO was composed by Junichi Masuda. The music as well as the sound effects can be turned off in the settings of the app.

Version history

iOS

In-game version App Store version Release date Changes
0.29.0 1.0 July 6, 2016
  • Initial release
0.29.1 1.0.1 July 12, 2016
  • Trainers do not to have to enter their username and password repeatedly after a force log out
  • Added stability to Pokémon Trainer Club account log-in process
  • Resolved issues causing crashes
  • Fixed Google account scope
0.29.2 1.0.2 July 13, 2016
  • Fixes for Pokemon Trainer Club login
0.29.3 1.0.3 July 20, 2016
  • Minor text fixes.
0.31.0 1.1.0 July 30, 2016
  • Avatars can be re-customized from the profile screen
  • Adjusted battle damage calculation and some moves's damage values*
  • Refined certain Gym animations
  • Improved memory issues
  • Removed footprints from nearby Pokémon screen
  • Bug fixes during wild Pokémon encounters
  • Updated Pokémon details UI
  • Updated achievement medal art
  • Minor text and map feature display issues fixed
0.31.1 1.1.1 August 1, 2016
  • Performance improvement in Pokémon details and list screens.
  • Correct link for app upgrade.
0.33.0 1.3.0 August 8, 2016
  • Added dialog to remind Trainers to not play while traveling above a certain speed; Trainers must confirm they are not driving
  • Improved the accuracy of curveball throws
  • Fixed bug that prevented "Nice", "Great", and "Excellent" Poké Ball throws from awarding the appropriate XP bonuses
  • Fixed achievements showing incorrect icons
  • Enabled the ability for Trainers to change their nickname one time
  • Resolved issues with battery saver mode and re-enabled the feature
  • Added visuals for Team Leaders Candela, Blanche, and Spark
  • Enabled a variation of the Nearby Pokémon feature for a subset of users to test; changes in the Nearby Pokémon UI may occur
  • Minor text fixes
0.33.0 1.3.1 August 11, 2016
  • Stability improvements
  • No text fixes
0.35.0 1.5.0 August 23, 2016
  • Added Pokémon Appraisal
  • Fixed bug that kept defeated Pokémon at 1 HP instead of fainting
0.37.0 1.7.0 September 13, 2016
  • Implemented Buddy Pokémon
  • Made it easier to select smaller Pokémon on the screen.
  • Fixed an issue where Eggs would sometimes hatch without displaying the animation.
  • Improved performance reliability when a device switches networks to no longer cause the application to hang or stop updating.
  • Pokémon GO Plus support
  • Minor text fixes.
0.37.1 1.7.1 September 16, 2016
  • Pokémon GO Plus stability improvement
  • Added quick help when first connected to Pokémon GO Plus
  • Minor text fixes
0.39.0 1.9.0 September 24, 2016
  • Capture location: The location where a Pokémon was caught will now be displayed on their information screen.
  • Pokémon GO Plus and Incense: Trainers can attempt to capture Pokémon they encounter from using Incense with the Pokémon GO Plus accessory.
  • Fixed a bug that caused some users to get stuck on the loading screen, even after restarting the app.
  • Fixed a bug where the camera sometimes moved at slow speeds during battle.
  • Minor bug fixes
0.41.2 1.11.2 October 12, 2016
  • Catch Bonus: Trainers can earn a catch bonus for a Pokémon type as they catch more of a specific type.
  • Updated Gym Training: Trainers can now bring six Pokémon to battle at friendly Gyms. The CP of the Pokémon you are battling may be temporarily adjusted lower for your training session.
  • Egg & Incubator Screens: These will periodically update the distance walked without the Trainer needing to close and reopen the screen.
  • Fixed several audio issues.
  • Decreased the evolution animation time.
  • Minor fixes
0.41.4 1.11.4 October 14, 2016
  • Minor fixes
0.43.3 1.13.3 October 24, 2016
  • Professor Willow discovered that Eggs have different patterns depending on the distance required to hatch them.
  • Pokémon type icons have been added to the information screen for each Pokémon.
  • Low battery indicator added for the Pokémon GO Plus.
  • Minor text fixes
0.43.4 1.13.4 October 26, 2016
  • Minor bug fixes
0.45.0 1.15.0 November 7, 2016
  • You’ll earn bonuses for the first Pokémon catch and PokéStop visit each day. You’ll receive a larger bonus when you do this seven days in a row.
  • When you defeat the Gym Leader at a rival Gym, there will be a brief period of time where only you will be able to place a Pokémon in the open Gym.
  • The amount of Prestige a rival Gym loses when you defeat a regular Gym member has increased. The amount of Prestige gained by training at a friendly Gym has been lowered.
  • Minor text fixes
0.47.1 1.17.0 November 19, 2016
  • Fixed an issue where the Egg-hatching cutscene animation would sometimes be briefly visible from the map view.
  • Minor text fixes
0.49.1 1.19.1 December 8, 2016
  • Trainers will be able to transfer multiple Pokémon at a time to Professor Willow. To use this function, press and hold on a Pokémon.
  • Pokémon type icons have been added to the Gym battle approach and Gym battle screen.
  • The total Candy count for your Buddy Pokémon has been added to the buddy information screen.
  • The total kilometers a buddy has walked has been added to the information screen of each Pokémon that has ever been your buddy.
  • Minor text fixes.
0.51.0 1.21.0 December 20, 2016
  • The bug that caused incorrect vibration notifications has been fixed.
  • Day and night modes have changed to more accurately reflect the Trainer’s current time of day.
  • Minor text fixes.
0.51.2 1.21.2 December 22, 2016
  • Pokémon GO for Apple Watch
  • Minor text fixes
0.53.1 1.23.1 January 18, 2017
  • Updated Apple Watch to display Eggs obtained from PokéStops
  • Changed distance tracking to better account for GPS drift
  • Minor text fixes.
0.53.2 1.23.2 January 23, 2017
  • Added Korean language support
0.55.0 1.25.0 January 28, 2017
  • Integrated iOS wheelchair support for use with Apple Watch.
  • Minor text fixes.
0.57.2 1.27.2 February 16, 2017
  • Over 80 additional Pokémon originally discovered in the Johto region can be caught.
  • Gender-specific variations of select Pokémon can be caught.
  • Added new encounter mechanics.
  • Added Poké Ball and Berry selection carousels to the encounter screen.
  • Added two new Berries.
  • Added new avatar outfit and accessory options.
  • Added new night-mode map and encounter music.
  • Added bonus Candies for catching evolved Pokémon.
  • Implemented Apple Watch connection stability improvement.
  • Various bug fixes.
  • Minor text fixes.
0.57.3 1.27.3 February 27, 2017
  • Performance fixes.
0.57.4 1.27.4 March 5, 2017
  • Minor text fixes.
0.59.1 1.29.1 March 22, 2017
  • The 7-day ‘First PokéStop of the Day’ streak will now award a random Evolution item.
  • Minor text fixes.
0.61.0 1.31.0 April 6, 2017
  • Added Traditional Chinese language support.
  • Updated the Pokémon collection screen scroll bar.
  • Various bug fixes.
  • Minor text fixes.
0.63.1 1.33.1 May 9, 2017
  • Added Brazilian Portuguese language support.
  • Tapping on a medal will now show your progress toward the next medal tier.
0.63.4 1.33.4 June 6, 2017
  • Implement bug fixes.
0.67.1 1.37.1 June 20, 2017
  • Gym features significantly updated to add the all-new motivation system.
  • Added new Gym Badge feature.
  • Added in-app and push notification system for Gyms.
  • Added Raid Battles, a new cooperative gameplay experience.
  • Added four new items available only by completing Raid Battles.
  • Added Raids tab to Nearby screen.
  • Added search functionality to Pokémon collection screen.
  • Added visual indicator to unvisited PokéStops.

Android

Version Release date Changes
0.29.0 July 6, 2016
  • Initial release
0.29.2 July 13, 2016
  • Support added for Intel CPUs
  • Works on devices running Android N (7.0)
  • Trainers do not to have to enter their username and password repeatedly after a force log out
  • Increased server stability
  • Resolved many issues causing crashes
  • Pokémon Trainer Club login issues resolved[2]
0.29.3 July 20, 2016
  • Minor text fixes.
0.31.0 July 30, 2016
  • Avatars can now be re-customized from the Trainer profile screen
  • Adjusted battle move damage values for some Pokémon*
  • Refined certain Gym animations
  • Improved memory issues
  • Removed footprints of nearby Pokémon
  • Modified battle damage calculation
  • Various bug fixes during wild Pokémon encounter
  • Updated Pokémon details screen
  • Updated achievement medal images
  • Fixed issues with displaying certain map features
  • Minor text fixes
0.33.0 August 8, 2016
  • Added notice to remind Trainers to not play while traveling above a certain speed; Trainers have to indicate they aren't the driver
  • Fixed bug that prevented "Nice", "Great", and "Excellent" Poké Ball throws from awarding the appropriate XP bonuses
  • Enabled ability for Trainers to change nickname one time
  • Quick Start removed from settings
  • Other fixes
0.35.0 August 23, 2016
  • Added Pokémon Appraisal
  • Fixed bug that kept defeated Pokémon at 1 HP instead of fainting
  • Minor bot fixes
0.37.0 September 13, 2016
  • Implemented Buddy Pokémon
  • Made it easier to select smaller Pokémon on the screen.
  • Fixed an issue where Eggs would sometimes hatch without displaying the animation.
  • Improved performance reliability when a device switches networks to no longer cause the application to hang or stop updating.
  • Pokémon GO Plus support
  • Minor text fixes.
0.37.1 September 16, 2016
  • Pokémon GO Plus stability improvement
  • Added quick help when first connected to Pokémon GO Plus
  • Minor text fixes
0.39.0 September 24, 2016
  • Capture location: The location where a Pokémon was caught will now be displayed on their information screen.
  • Pokémon GO Plus and Incense: Trainers can attempt to capture Pokémon they encounter from using Incense with the Pokémon GO Plus accessory.
  • Fixed a bug that caused some users to get stuck on the loading screen, even after restarting the app.
  • Fixed a bug where the camera sometimes moved at slow speeds during battle.
  • Minor bug fixes
0.39.1 September 27, 2016
  • Minor text fixes
0.41.3 October 12, 2016
  • Catch Bonus: Trainers can earn a catch bonus for a Pokémon type as they catch more of a specific type.
  • Updated Gym Training: Trainers can now bring six Pokémon to battle at friendly Gyms. The CP of the Pokémon you are battling may be temporarily adjusted lower for your training session.
  • Egg & Incubator Screens: These will periodically update the distance walked without the Trainer needing to close and reopen the screen.
  • Audio fixes
  • Decreased the evolution animation time
  • Minor fixes
0.41.4 October 12, 2016
  • Minor fixes
0.43.3 October 24, 2016
  • Professor Willow discovered that Eggs have different patterns depending on the distance required to hatch them.
  • Pokémon type icons have been added to the information screen for each Pokémon.
  • Low battery indicator added for the Pokémon GO Plus.
  • Minor text fixes
0.43.4 October 25, 2016
  • Minor bug fixes
0.45.0 November 7, 2016
  • You’ll earn bonuses for the first Pokémon catch and PokéStop visit each day. You’ll receive a larger bonus when you do this seven days in a row.
  • When you defeat the Gym Leader at a rival Gym, there will be a brief period of time where only you will be able to place a Pokémon in the open Gym.
  • The amount of Prestige a rival Gym loses when you defeat a regular Gym member has increased. The amount of Prestige gained by training at a friendly Gym has been lowered.
  • Minor text fixes
0.47.1 November 19, 2016
  • Fixed an issue where the Egg-hatching cutscene animation would sometimes be briefly visible from the map view.
  • Minor text fixes
0.49.1 December 8, 2016
  • Trainers will be able to transfer multiple Pokémon at a time to Professor Willow. To use this function, press and hold on a Pokémon.
  • Pokémon type icons have been added to the Gym battle approach and Gym battle screen.
  • The total Candy count for your Buddy Pokémon has been added to the buddy information screen.
  • The total kilometers a buddy has walked has been added to the information screen of each Pokémon that has ever been your buddy.
  • Minor text fixes.
0.51.0 December 20, 2016
  • The bug that caused incorrect vibration notifications has been fixed.
  • Day and night modes have changed to more accurately reflect the Trainer’s current time of day.
  • Minor text fixes.
0.53.1 January 18, 2017
  • Updated Apple Watch to display Eggs obtained from PokéStops
  • Changed distance tracking to better account for GPS drift
  • Minor text fixes.
0.53.2 January 23, 2017
  • Added Korean language support
0.55.0 January 28, 2017
  • Reduced the starting load time on Android devices.
  • Resolved Android connectivity issues for the Pokémon GO Plus accessory.
  • Minor text fixes.
0.57.2 February 16, 2017
  • Over 80 additional Pokémon originally discovered in the Johto region can be caught.
  • Gender-specific variations of select Pokémon can be caught.
  • Added new encounter mechanics.
  • Added Poké Ball and Berry selection carousels to the encounter screen.
  • Added two new Berries.
  • Added new avatar outfit and accessory options.
  • Added new night-mode map and encounter music.
  • Added bonus Candies for catching Evolved Pokémon.
  • Implemented Apple Watch connection stability improvement.
  • Various bug fixes.
  • Minor text fixes.
0.57.3 February 27, 2017
  • Performance improvements.
0.57.4 March 5, 2017
  • Minor text fixes.
0.59.1 March 22, 2017
  • The 7-day ‘First PokéStop of the Day’ streak will now award a random Evolution item.
  • Minor text fixes.
0.59.2 March 30, 2017
  • Minor bug fixes.[3]
0.61.0 April 6, 2017
  • Added Traditional Chinese language support.
  • Updated the Pokémon collection screen scroll bar.
  • Various bug fixes.
  • Minor text fixes.
0.63.1 May 9, 2017
  • Added Brazilian Portuguese language support.
  • Tapping on a medal will now show your progress toward the next medal tier.
0.63.4 June 6, 2017
  • Implement bug fixes.
0.67.1 June 20, 2017
  • Gym features significantly updated to add the all-new motivation system.
  • Added new Gym Badge feature.
  • Added in-app and push notification system for Gyms.
  • Added Raid Battles, a new cooperative gameplay experience.
  • Added four new items available only by completing Raid Battles.
  • Added Raids tab to Nearby screen.
  • Added search functionality to Pokémon collection screen.
  • Added visual indicator to unvisited PokéStops.

Compatibility

Pokémon GO requires an internet connection (Wi-Fi, 3G or 4G) and GPS/location services. According to the official support site, the game can be played on:[4]

  • Android devices: Android 4.4+ (rooted devices are not supported), preferred resolution of 720×1280 pixels (not optimized for tablet)
  • iOS devices: iPhone 5 and newer, iOS 8 and newer (jailbroken devices are not supported)
    • Apple Watch will be supported late 2016[5], with the Apple Watch's fitness tracking functions integrated into the game.

However, the game is also playable on some iOS and Android devices that are not officially supported.

Connectivity

Pokémon GO currently has no connectivity with other Pokémon games. However, Junichi Masuda has stated that the developers plan to add connectivity with the next entry in the core series Pokémon games.[6][7]

Partnerships

050Diglett.png This section is incomplete.
Please feel free to edit this section to add missing information and complete it.
Reason: Partnerships in Japan

Due to the popularity of Pokémon GO, the game has partnered with several other companies to offer special promotions. These partnerships often involve sponsored locations, wherein stores affiliated with the partner company become PokéStops and Gyms; sponsored locations do not appear in the game for players under the age of 13.

Pokémon GO partnered with Starbucks in the United States. Starting December 8, 2016, 7,800 company-operated Starbucks stores in the United States have been made into PokéStops and Gyms. Additionally, Starbucks is selling a special-edition Pokémon GO Frappuccino as part of this partnership; the Pokémon GO Frappuccino starts with a Vanilla Bean Frappuccino blended beverage and raspberry syrup blended with freeze-dried whole blackberries and topped with whipped cream.

Pokémon GO partnered with Sprint in the United States. Starting December 7, 2016, 10,500 Sprint, Boost Mobile, and Sprint at Radioshack stores in the United States are becoming PokéStops and Gyms. Sprint locations also feature in-store charging stations to allow Pokémon GO players to charge their devices.

Pokémon GO partnered with Reliance Jio Infocomm (which operates under the name Jio) in India. Starting December 13, 2016, nearly 3,000 Jio stores (thousands of Reliance Digital stores according to Jio's press release) and select partner premises in India will become PokéStops or Gyms in the Pokémon GO, as well as offering charging stations for players. On Jio's social messaging app, JioChat, Pokémon players have access to an exclusive Pokémon GO channel to allow them to collaborate and be part of a community of players with daily tips, contests, clues, and special events. During Jio's "Happy New Year" offer, Jio SIM customers will be able to download and play Pokémon GO without incurring data charges, like any other apps and content, until March 31, 2017.

Development

The game was conceived by John Hanke after the development of Niantic's Ingress. It was decided that a game based on Pokémon would be a good choice, due to its focus on collecting the titular creatures. Hanke brought the idea to the Pokémon Company and talked with Mr. Isihara. Development began. Junichi Masuda worked with Niantic on the game's development.[8]

An Ingress Report released on September 10, 2015, the day of the game's announcement, stated that a closed beta would occur during Northern Hemisphere winter 2015 and that the game would be released in early 2016.[9] However, no beta testing occurred during 2015.[10][11]

Field tests were held in Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States prior to the game's public release. Selected applicants were given the opportunity to test the game.

  • Japan: held from March 29 to June 30, 2016, announced on March 3, 2016[12][13]
  • Australia and New Zealand: held from April 25 to June 30, 2016, announced on April 7, 2016[14]
  • United States: held from May 25 to June 30, 2016, announced on May 16, 2016[15]

A session at the Game Developers Conference featuring the game was intended to be held by Niantic CEO John Hanke on March 14, 2016, but was later cancelled due to Niantic preparing the game for beta testing and launch.[16]

Release

Unlike previous Pokémon games for mobile devices, Pokémon GO was released on a staggered schedule, releasing initially to only to a few select countries. After its initial release on July 6, 2016, additional releases were put on hold due to server issues, but resumed on July 13, 2016, with the app's release in Germany. France was supposed to receive the app alongside other European countries, but the official release in the country was postponed due to the 2016 Nice attack.[17]

So far, Pokémon GO has been released in all countries with access to the iOS App Store or Google Play Store, except for Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Moldova, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, mainland China, Tunisia, Algeria, Mali, Senegal, Nigeria, Cameroon, the Congo, Angola, and Zimbabwe.

Date Locations
July 6, 2016 Australia, New Zealand
United States
July 13, 2016 Germany
July 14, 2016 United Kingdom
July 15, 2016 Italy, Portugal, Spain
July 16, 2016 Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Greenland, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sweden, Switzerland
July 17, 2016 Canada
July 19, 2016 Puerto Rico
July 22, 2016 Japan
July 24, 2016 France
July 25, 2016 Hong Kong
August 3, 2016 Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda, Bolivia, Brazil, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Montserrat, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Uruguay, Venezuela
August 5, 2016
August 6, 2016
Aruba, Brunei, Cambodia, Curaçao, Fiji, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Federated States of Micronesia, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Singapore, Sint Maarten, Solomon Islands, Taiwan, Thailand, Turks and Caicos Islands, Vietnam
September 30, 2016 Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Macau, Macedonia, Serbia
October 1, 2016 Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan
October 4, 2016
October 5, 2016
Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Chad, Cape Verde, Cote d'Ivoire, Egypt, Gabon, Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritania, Mauritius, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Swaziland, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zambia
November 18, 2016 Bahrain, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, United Arab Emirates
December 14, 2016 Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka
January 24, 2017 South Korea
TBA* Russia

Gallery

Trivia

  • This is the only Pokémon game to have the word "Pokémon" spelled in Latin letters in its Japanese name.
  • Pokémon GO has been banned in Iran[18] and Mainland China[19] due to security concerns. However, some Iranians are still playing the game publicly regardless.[20]

In other languages

Language Title
Japan Flag.png Japanese Pokémon GO
Chinese Cantonese Pokémon GO
Mandarin Pokémon GO
France Flag.png French Pokémon GO
Germany Flag.png German Pokémon GO
Italy Flag.png Italian Pokémon GO
South Korea Flag.png Korean Pokémon GO
Brazil Flag.png Brazilian Portuguese Pokémon GO
Spain Flag.png Spanish Pokémon GO

See also

External links

References



Nintendo DS: Learn with Pokémon: Typing Adventure
Pokémon ConquestPokéPark: Fishing Rally DS
Nintendo 3DS: Pokédex 3D (Pro) • HarmoKnightPokémon Art Academy
The Thieves and the 1000 PokémonPokémon Shuffle
Nintendo Badge Arcade
Wii U: Pokkén Tournament
Nintendo Switch: Pokkén Tournament DXPokémon QuestPokémon Café ReMixPokémon UNITEPokémon TV
PC: Pokémon Project Studio Red and BluePokéROMsPokémon the Movie 2000 Adventure
Pokémon Masters ArenaPokémon PC MasterPokémon Team Turbo
Pokémon Team Rocket Blast OffPokémon Poké Ball LauncherPokémon Seek & Find
Pokémon GardenPokémon Medallion BattlePokémon Tower Battle
Mobile: PokématePokémon Say Tap?Pokédex for iOSPokémon TVCamp PokémonPokémon Jukebox
Pokémon Shuffle MobileDancing? Pokémon BandPokémon Photo BoothPokémon GOPokémon Duel
Pokémon: Magikarp JumpPokémon PlayhousePokémon QuestPokémon PassPokémon Masters EX
Pokémon Wave HelloPokémon SmilePokémon Café ReMixPokémon UNITEPokémon Sleep
Smart speakers: Pikachu Talk
Arcade: Print Club Pokémon BDance! PikachuPikachu's Great Surfing AdventurePokémon: Crayon Kids
Pokémon: Wobbuffet Fell Down!Pokémon Get Round and Round
Pokémon Tug of War Tournament: Absolutely Get Medal!Pokémon Medal World
Pokémon Card Game GachaPokémon: Battle NinePokkén TournamentPokémon Corogarena
Sega Pico: Pokémon: Catch the Numbers!
Pokémon Advanced Generation: I've Begun Hiragana and Katakana!
Pokémon Advanced Generation: Pico for Everyone Pokémon Loud Battle!
CoCoPad: Pocket Monsters Advanced Generation: Pokémon Super Drill Let's Learn Numbers from 1 to 20!!
Advanced Pico Beena: Pokémon Advanced Generation: Pokémon Number Battle!
Intellectual Training Drill Pokémon Diamond & Pearl: Letter and Number Intelligence Game
Pokémon Diamond & Pearl: Search for Pokémon! Adventure in the Maze!
Pokémon Best Wishes: Intelligence Training Pokémon Big Sports Meet!
Tech demos: Pikachu: DS Tech Demo
Self-contained: Pokémon PikachuPokémon Pikachu 2 GSPokémon Poké BallCyber Poké Ball
Cyber PokédexCyclone 2Digital Poké Ball D & PElectronic Hand-Held Yahtzee
Eevee × Tamagotchi
Pokémon game templates


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