pokestops

Since its global launch in 2016, Pokémon GO has been more than a mobile game. It has been a large-scale experiment in augmented reality, human movement, and real-world mapping. At its core lies a deceptively simple mechanic: encourage players to explore physical locations by tying gameplay rewards to real-world points of interest, known as Pokéstops and Gyms. For years, that system has relied heavily on user-generated content through Niantic’s Wayfarer program. While this approach fueled organic growth in dense urban centers, it also created a persistent imbalance. Cities flourished with gameplay opportunities, while suburban and rural communities were often left … Read more