Movable games such as Pokémon Go have altered the interaction of people with mobile games. They are games based on augmented reality (AR) and located in real-life places. Players are motivated to move, discover, and interact with their environments. The popularity of Pokémon Go has given rise to many more games of this nature. These games present new forms of adventures, promote physical activity, and socialization. So, we are going to cover ten games like Pokémon Go in this article.
All of these games create their gameplay with the aid of GPS or AR, and/or real-world exploration. We shall also look at the advantages and safety of playing such games, particularly in teens and children.
What type of game is Pokémon GO?
Pokémon Go is a location-based AR mobile game. Niantic created it, and it was released in July 2016. The game relies on the GPS technology to trace the location of the player on the phone. The players gain real-world mobility in order to locate and capture virtual Pokémon. The game superimposes augmented pets on real-life images via the camera on the phone. This makes an augmented reality.
Pokémon Go motivates its players to go around places in the real world. These sites are parks, national monuments, and government buildings. Pokémon trainers can gather items in PokéStops and fight in Gyms. Community Days and seasonal challenges are also a real-time event in the game. These activities prompt the players to meet and socialize.
You can try Pokémon Go easily, download it, and play it. It also provides in-app purchases of items and upgrades. This game can be played with iOS and Android software. It uses GPS and an internet connection.
All in all, Pokémon Go encourages walking, discovering, and interaction. Millions of people play the game across the globe. It has won awards for its health benefits and for innovation.
Use parental controls to keep track of the games your kids are playing.
10 games like Pokémon Go
Many interactive games today rely on AR and GPS. These games entice players to explore their environment. Moreover, all of these games have different features and subjects. Here are ten top-tier games similar to Pokémon Go, which are described, along with their age rating and level of similarity.
Ingress Prime
Ingress Prime, the game, is developed by a company similar to the one behind the Pokémon game, Niantic. It is a science fiction augmented reality game. The player becomes a member of either the Enlightened or the Resistance. The objective is to capture portals that are at physical locations. Players connect portals to establish control fields across geographic positions.
GPS is the main method used for tracking movement in Ingress Prime. The game promotes cooperation and tactical orientation. Gamers need to explore sites, crack codes, and battle for control of the land. The game includes worldwide activities and missions.
Young players can enjoy Ingress Prime when they are 13 or older. It resembles Pokémon Go not only in terms of AR, GPS, and real-life exploration but also in terms of the gameplay. Older players are more attracted to the game’s competitive and cooperative aspects.
Harry Potter: Wizards Unite
Harry Potter: Wizards Unite is an augmented reality game taking place in the wizarding world created by J.K. Rowling. Niantic and WB Games developed this game. Gamers transform into witches and wizards in it. From there, they delve into their neighborhoods in search of magical beings, with spells, and bring back lost artifacts.
The game is a GPS/AR experience where magical objects are preloaded into the real world. Players can participate in live activities and challenges. The game involves brewing potions, attacking castles, and gathering magic items.
Harry Potter: Wizards Unite is rated PEGI 7. Children and teenagers can play it. The game resembles the mechanism of Pokémon Go, being an AR game that involves exploration and capture. The theme and plot are attractive to fans of the Harry Potter series.
Pikmin Bloom
Another title from Niantic is Pikmin Bloom. It is a game that is founded on the successful Pikmin franchise by Nintendo. The walk starts when they want their Pikmin to grow, gather objects, and lay flowers. The game measures steps and makes people walk every day.
Pikmin Bloom tracks the player’s movements using GPS. The game will encourage physical activity and awareness. Players can check their walking history and accomplishments. It has an Everyone (ESRB) and PEGI 3 rating.
Pikmin Bloom is comparable to Pokémon Go, as both games revolve around being outdoors and GPS tracking, as well as interaction with the real world. The game’s casual graphics and introductory gameplay are accessible to everyone.
Monster Hunter Now
Monster Hunter Now is a place-based augmented reality game. The game immerses the Monster HuWorld into the real world. Players go out to hunt, fight, and capture monsters in their neighborhoods.
The game allows monsters and resources to be placed in real-world locations using GPS. From there, the players can combine forces to defeat high-level beasts. The game rewards exploration and teamwork.
Monster Hunter Now is 13+ ESRB, 16+ PEGI, 12+. It is similar to Pokémon Go and utilizes AR, GPS tracking, and real-life movement. The combat system of the game, as well as the monsters found, is of interest to action game enthusiasts.
Jurassic World Alive
Jurassic World Alive is an augmented reality game that draws inspiration from the Jurassic Park franchise. In the real world, players hunt and capture dinosaurs. The game will use GPS and AR to display dinosaurs in the player’s personal space.
Players scavenge for DNA, develop new species, and fight against other players. The game has recurring games and missions. Moreover, Jurassic World Alive has an age rating of 16+ ( fantasy violence, mild blood, online chat).
It is comparable to Pokémon Go in terms of its AR, creature collection, and GPS-based exploration. The concept of dinosaurs and real-life combat appeals to those who enjoy the films and adventure games.
Catch A Dragon! Draconius GO!
Draconius GO is an AR fantasy game similar to Pokémon Go. Players drag mythical creatures and dragons. When playing the game, one will find battles, quests, magic spells, and treasure hunts.
Draconius GO deploys creatures and items to real-world locations using GPS. The players are also able to fight and enter events.
The game is 13+ rated. It resembles Pokémon Go, but with an AR element in the creature collection, a GPS-like tracking system, and real-world investigation. There is a twist on the fantasy theme and diversity of creatures.
Orna: RPG GPS
The game is a location-based RPG game with pixel-art graphics called Orna. The game makes the real world a fantasy battleground. Players battle monsters, capture territories, and complete quests according to their GPS position.
Orna also features classes, equipment enhancements, and PvP battles. There are also guilds and global gaming events.
The rating is 8+. Orna can be compared to Pokémon Go in terms of its GPS-like game mechanics, exploration, and role-playing elements. The detail and customization are attractive to anyone who loves traditional role-playing games.
Geocaching
Geocaching is a worldwide search for treasure using GPS. Geocachers seek hidden caches. Other players leave these containers, which are located in cities, parks, and natural terrain.
The activity inspires outdoor play and problem-solving. Geocaches are located, and their positions are logged by using GPS coordinates used by players.
Geocaching is age-restricted to 13+. It also resembles Pokémon Go in terms of exploring via GPS and adventuring in reality. Discovery and community contribute to the game’s popularity among families and individuals who enjoy spending time outdoors.
Ghostbusters World
Ghostbusters World is an AR title based on the Ghostbusters franchise. In the game, ghosts are caught in the real world. The game features multiplayer raiding, collection, and battles.
Ghostbusters World has a GPS and AR-based game where ghosts and objects are positioned in the surroundings of the player. Gamers can combine their efforts to defeat mighty ghosts.
The game is 13 +. It resembles Pokémon Go in terms of AR, GPS tracking, and collection of creatures. The comedy and retro elements of the game cater to the movie’s fans.
Zombies, Run!
Zombies, Run! is a running game with elements of a scary (and funny) story. They run away from virtual zombies, accomplishing missions and gathering supplies. The game utilizes GPS to track movement and distance.
Zombies, Run! involves interactive stories and sound adventures. The players can hear the story when walking, running, or jogging.
This game is 12+. It’s like Pokémon Go, with GPS tracking and real-life activities, and fairly immersive gameplay. The fitness and narrative nature of the game are what distinguish it from other AR games.
Should teens play Pokémon Go?
Pokémon Go is required to be labeled 13+ in most places. Children under 13 are allowed to play with the consent and monitoring of their parents in some countries. It is a family-friendly game. It promotes physical activity, outdoor physical activity, and socialization.
Studies indicate that Pokémon Go games can have a positive influence. Players will tend to walk further and discover new areas. Also, working in teams and communication are encouraged. Many players form new friendships and become part of the local community. On top of that, there are health and wellness programs that originated from Pokémon Go. It has the potential to boost spirit and relieve tension.
However, it is also significant for teenagers and children. The issue of privacy is important. The game collects location data as well as personal data. So, parents should consider the permissibility of privacy options. Unless controlled, screen time may get out of hand. Similarly, sight strain, exhaustion, or a decrease in grades can occur due to prolonged sitting.
Adventure is dangerous when there is no guide. The players can enter unknown or dangerous places. One may also face strangers and risky situations. Moreover, there is the ability to spend in-app without intention. Lastly, there is a risk that some players may feel pressured to purchase items or upgrades.
Younger players are suggested to be under parental controls and supervision when playing these AR games. Parental control apps, such as FlashGet Kids, can assist parents in keeping track of their children’s screen time, locations, and apps. Also, parents can restrict and be alerted with these tools. Similarly, parents should communicate about safe play characters and establish boundaries.
How to play Pokémon Go safely for kids?
Playing Pokémon Go is a game that requires safety. The mentioned tips will allow you to securely experience the fun:
- Remain in secure, busy places. Do not walk into unfamiliar or poorly lit areas.
- It is not recommended to play while driving, cycling, or crossing the street. Many accidents may occur due to distraction.
- Always pay attention to the environment. Be aware of obstacles, traffic, and other people.
- Have some fun with your friends or relatives. Playing in a group is both safer and more fun.
- Apply parental controls to the app’s permissions and features.
- Create a child account with parental permission so that players under the age of 13 can use it.
- Monitor the location and screen time using the FlashGet Kids tool.
- Shorten the playtime and go to a reassuring place.
- Do not communicate personal information with unknown individuals. Chat in a game wisely.
- Promote screen-free time and encourage play in moderation, striking a balance.
- Teach children about privacy and safety on the internet.
- Review the dangers of in-app purchases and set spending limits.
In Pokémon Go, parental controls are in-app. Meanwhile, parents can control in-game purchases, friend requests, and the sharing of location. So, continue to check these settings and adjust them as needed. Also, promote the sharing of information concerning habits and experiences related to the game.
Parents ought to be good examples of safe behavior. Play and get out and see new stuff together as a family. Utilize the game to practice navigation, map reading, and social skills. All of this appreciates success and promotes good rivalry.
Conclusion
Applications, such as Pokémon Go, have established new methods of augmenting technologies with natural movement. Such games can make the real world a playground through the use of AR and GPS. Games like Ingress Prime, Harry Potter: Wizards Unite, and Pikmin Bloom offer various journeys for fans of treasure hunting and adventure.
However, parents are still advised to apply parental controls, limit screen time, and monitor communication for privacy threats. Some tools, such as FlashGet Kids, may make it a secure and pleasant experience. All in all, playing safely is one way that players of all ages can enjoy the thrill of games like Pokémon Go without fear.
