Pokémon Go – the phenomenon that’s now a wonderful routine

It’s become a routine for many players to unlock their phones and open Pokémon Go the moment they step outside. Whether it’s a casual stroll during lunch or after work, the game often dictates the route based on nearby creatures, gyms, or raids. This engaging gameplay not only boosts daily step counts but also releases a satisfying rush of dopamine.

This month marks the sixth anniversary of Pokémon Go, and it’s remarkable how this game continues to thrive. With over a billion downloads across various devices, its longevity is not just due to its initial hype. The reasons players remain engaged are as varied as the community itself.

At its core, Pokémon Go is a collection game built on a successful live service model. It regularly introduces new events, rotates available creatures, and offers exclusive content, all while encouraging friendly competition. Players often compare their Pokédex totals, the number of shiny Pokémon they’ve caught, and their Pokémon’s stats. This makes Pokémon Go an ideal fit for Niantic’s real-world exploration format. Despite attempts by other developers, no one has been able to replicate the unique experience Pokémon Go provides.

Beyond collecting, Pokémon Go retains players for numerous reasons. For many, exercise is a key motivation, especially during the pandemic when outdoor activities were limited. The game encourages exploration, allowing players to discover new locations while providing a fun and interactive way to navigate. As I often say, Pokémon Go is “walking but more fun,” transforming routine walks into exciting adventures filled with surprises.

Social interaction is another significant aspect. Players form friendships while playing, reconnect with old friends to discuss their latest catches, or share experiences from recent events. For many, Pokémon Go is woven into the fabric of daily life, serving as a common topic of conversation akin to football for others. I’ve witnessed the formation of lasting relationships through the game, with friends who met while playing set to marry later this year.

The community extends into the online realm, where players discuss various issues and updates related to the game. Niantic has been working to address challenges that arose during the pandemic, such as the introduction of in-person-only raids to encourage players to return to local gatherings. However, there has been pushback from the community regarding changes that limit gameplay, particularly around the extended interaction distance that was temporarily implemented during lockdowns.

In 2022, players can still find a wealth of activities to engage with in Pokémon Go. Beyond catching and battling, the game features an ongoing live service with events and new releases. Recently, players celebrated the game’s sixth anniversary with special activities, including the chance to catch a Pikachu dressed in a cake outfit and Charizard sporting a party hat.

The introduction of in-game seasons has enhanced the structure of Pokémon Go, allowing for more immersive storytelling. Currently, a new character named Rhi has taken over from Professor Willow to introduce the arrival of Ultra Beasts, with teasers hinting at more characters and features on the horizon.

Pokémon themselves play a crucial role in maintaining player interest. With an extensive roster that spans nearly all regions from the franchise, there is always something new to pursue or level up. Continuous updates and the release of new species, especially following the launch of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, ensure that players have plenty of content to explore. Six years in, Pokémon Go remains a dynamic experience, keeping millions of players engaged as they strive to catch ’em all.

This piece is part of our State of the Game series, where we check in on some of the biggest service games running to see how they’re getting on. You can find plenty more pieces like it in our State of the Game hub.