The new mobile game "Pokémon Go" tasks players to hunt Pokémon in the real world. To do this, they have to use an augmented-reality interface and leave their homes. Here are 10 reminders for beginners:
1. It requires a Gmail address.
To play "Pokémon Go" for free, players have to install it onto an Android or iPhone device. Players need a Gmail address before logging into the game.
2. It requires internet connection.
Players will not be able to log in and play the game without being connection to the internet. Some players complain about issues trying to get the game started because the servers are fussy at the moment.
3. It requires going out.
What makes the game unique is that players have to go outside in order to play it. They will be clearly walked through it by the game itself. The GPS signal of the phone determines the location both of the player and of the Pokémon closest to him or her.
4. It requires walking.
Players have to physically walk to walk in the game. The avatar on screen moves based on the position of the player within the world itself.
5. Pokémon are little pocket monsters.
As little pocket monsters, Pokémon are creatures inspired by various things including plants and animals. Each one possesses unique skills, quirks and attributes, and through training, may evolve into a stronger Pokémon.
6. Capture the Pokémon.
The main goal of the player in the game is to capture all 151 of the Pokémon and add to his or her personal collection. Completing this goal makes a player a Pokémon master.
7. Keep walking around.
Once a player has stumbled upon one of the Pokémon, it will appear on the map. Players are alerted by the meter in the lower right-hand corner about which ones are near. Those in silhouette are the new ones for the players to capture.
8. It is not that easy.
The little pocket monsters tend to appear in grass. This means it is not easy to find them in more isolated areas.
9. It does not play independently.
Without the player, the game does not play in the background. After signing out, players have to open up the game and log back into their account in order to get back into the game.
10. Take pictures of the Pokémon.
To add a Pokémon their collection, players can swipe the red-and-white ball at the bottom of the screen. They may also take photos of the little pocket monster for fun.
Currently, "Pokémon Go" is available for free in Australia, Japan, New Zealand and the United States. It can be found on iTunes and the Google Play store. It is free to play but within the game itself, there are opportunities to spend actual cash.
For more tips and tricks on how to play the game, watch this: