This may seem like an early April Fool’s joke or just suspiciously coincidental timing, but on Monday, March 31, Google unveiled its partnership with The Pokémon Company and Nintendo to adapt Google Maps into a challenge to catch pokémon and become a Pokémon Master.
According to its announcement , this new addition to the latest version of Google Maps places dozens of wild virtual pokémon in streets, forests, mountains–everywhere. To catch as much as you can, you’ll need to go out into the world and catch the virtual pokémon in what appears to be a massive augmented reality adventure.
To get started, update your Google Maps on your iOS or Android device, open up the app, tab search and then tap “Press start” (which is indicated by a blue pokéball). Once you’ve done that, you’re free to find your virtual pokémon.
Considering the challenge is now a real aspect of Google Maps, it may be puzzling for some to identify if this is a genuine thing or an elaborate April Fool’s. It very likely is, given the announcement video’s rather comical tone and the notion of catching virtual pokémon as a requirement to gain a job role at Google. Watch the video below and decide for yourself.
The Pokémon Company International also announced on the same date–March 31–a free pokémon Easter giveaway, where Pokémon X and Pokémon Y players will be able to receive a free Magmar and Electabuzz at participating GAME stores in the UK, starting on April 4.
Source: Google Asia Pacific Blog .