'Pokémon GO' to Hit Mobile Devices in March, Says Nintendo Exec: Mapping, Real-World Gameplay & More
- Arvin Matthew Paculaba
- Jan 21, 2016 06:00 AM EST
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The last nugget of information fans heard about "Pokémon GO" was that it was already in exclusive beta testing. Now, one of the its major stakeholders has revealed that the augmented-reality video game app will be available no later than the second quarter of 2016.
Nintendo CEO Tatsumi Kimishima told Neurogadget that he can't wait to see the famous pocket monsters light up smartphones all over the world starting this March. He also confirmed that the game will include augmented-reality technology and global mapping. Niantic developers John Hanke and Mike Quigley have already shared these details in the past.
Kimishima also spoke about how other Japanese gaming studios are paying close attention to the development and fan reception of "Pokémon GO." Other companies are constantly looking to improve their brand, and the potential success of "Pokémon GO" could provide them with a strong business model.
On the other hand, Nintendo doesn't plan to sit idly while its rivals try to copy its formula. The executive said, "So it might very well be that Pokemon is not the only Nintendo mobile game that will make use of AR and GPS going forward."
"Pokémon GO" is a joint venture between The Pokémon Company, Nintendo, Google and Niantic. The first three aforementioned companies invested $20 million upfront for Niantic to develop the highly-anticipated mobile game app. The "Ingress" developer and former Google subsidiary will be paid an extra $10 million if it can meet the agreed upon sales goals, as per Business Wire.
"Pokémon GO" is an ambitious project that lets players search, capture and battle Pokémon creatures in the real world and in real-time. Players can join Pokémon-based conferences where they can learn more about the game or trade Pokémon with other players.
While Niantic is busy with the software side of things, Nintendo is the one tasked to supply the game's companion hardware. Dubbed as Pokémon GO Plus, the device is worn on the wrist and notifies its wearer when a Pokémon is near. It does this by pulsating and blinking via its LED lights, Tech Advisor reported.
Pokémon GO Plus also informs players of upcoming Pokémon gatherings. As of this time, Nintendo has yet to comment on the device's price point. It's also unclear if it would release alongside the mobile app game.
Fans can download "Pokémon GO" for free from the Google Play Store and App Store when it eventually releases to the public. It also comes with post-release content, which players need to pay for if they wish to enhance their "Pokémon GO" experience.
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