'Pokémon GO' release date: Gmae to merge Pokémon with real-world locations

Pokemon Go PlusThePokemonCompany/Niantic

When Nintendo and The Pokémon Company announced "Pokémon GO," observers thought that they'd be seeing another generic catch-them-all role-playing game. However, it seems that "Pokémon GO" is whole new level of playing.

According to the announcement, "Pokémon GO" will incorporate real-world locations with the game itself, and the players will be the ones to catch Pokémon all over the world. Describing how the game generally works, John Hanke, founder of Niantic Inc., one of the developers of the upcoming game, said: "Pokémon are going to roam free in the real world. 'Pokémon GO' will allow players to capture Pokémon who inhabit parks, shopping areas, sidewalks, and the countryside in places all around the world. Imagine discovering a Squirtle hiding along the waterfront in San Francisco, or a Bulbasaur at Shinjuku Station, or even Pikachu, hiding by the Eiffel Tower."

Although the upcoming mobile game can be enjoyed only with the player's smart devices, there will be an available additional accessory for hardcore fans.

Players will need the aid of Pokemon GO Plus, a device developed by both Nintendo and The Pokémon Company. Coming in both clip-on and wristband versions, the GO Plus connects with the player's smart devices and functions as a notification center, Pokédex, and Poké Ball all rolled into one. This way, players don't always need to monitor their smart devices – the GO Plus will notify players via vibrations and flashing LED lights for any notifications, such as in-game events, or sudden Pokémon appearances within the player's current location.

As for the release dates, Nintendo and The Pokémon Company have not said any specific window, aside from announcing that the title will come out next year. According to YouthHealthMag, there are rumors that since 2016 will celebrate the 20th year for the Pokémon franchise, the new game could go out as quickly as the early months.