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| (Image Source: PokémonGOFest.com/Niantic/The Pokemon Company) |
As part of the 25th anniversary celebration of the globally beloved Pokémon franchise, the Pokémon GO Fest makes its return on July 17-18, 2021 and is slated to be a two-day global event following last year's event where it was held online for the first time due to the global COVID-19 pandemic where participants worldwide were allowed to participate and play wherever they were. According to Pokémon GO developer Niantic, this year's festival will be an online-only global event.
The Pokémon GO Fest 2021 also marks the fifth year anniversary of the augmented reality (AR) mobile game which was first released in 2016. Published and developed by Niantic in collaboration with Nintendo and The Pokémon Company for Android and iOS devices, Pokémon GO uses mobile devices with GPS capabilities to locate, capture, train and battle virtual creatures known as Pokémon which appear as if they are in a player's real-world location. It would eventually become one of the most used and profitable mobile apps that is credited with popularizing location-based and AR technology as well as promoting physical activity.
Last year's Pokémon GO Fest, which was held virtually, was successful with a record number of millions of trainers from 124 countries and regions that has captured nearly a billion Pokémon using their mobile devices and walked nearly fifteen kilometers on average. “Last year’s event featured the debut of a brand-new worldwide format that saw Trainers from around the globe working together to complete challenges, unlock rewards, and defeat Team GO Rocket. From the launch of the Global Challenge Arena to the thrilling research that led us to Victini, Pokémon GO Fest 2020 was truly an event to remember!" Niantic stated in its news release. In line with the upcoming virtual global festival, the developers are warning players to be aware of their surroundings and follow health and safety protocols mandated by their respective authorities when playing Pokémon GO.
