Introduction to Pokémon GO and Its Impact on Communities
In the summer of 2016, the world witnessed a phenomenon with the discharge of Pokémon GO, a game that utilized augmented-reality (AR) technology to bring virtual objects into the true world. This innovation by Niantic, Inc., a Silicon Valley firm, drew large crowds to public spaces worldwide, showcasing the potential of digital technology to shape community engagement. The Knight Foundation, which goals to foster informed and engaged communities, saw a possibility in Pokémon GO to explore how digital technology could enhance public life within the communities they serve.
The Partnership Between Knight Foundation and Niantic
The Knight Foundation partnered with Niantic to research how Pokémon GO could support vibrant public life. This collaboration began in Charlotte, North Carolina, with an open-streets festival where streets were closed to cars, and pedestrians, bicyclists, and Pokémon GO players filled the space. The partnership expanded to a few more Knight communities: Akron, Ohio; Philadelphia; and San Jose, California. By working together, they aimed to know how AR games like Pokémon GO could contribute to civic engagement and community constructing.
Lessons Learned from the Partnership
To assess the impact of this partnership, the Knight Foundation worked with American University to conduct a study. The report, "Cities Remix a Playful Platform: Experiments to Embed Pokémon GO," revealed that AR games hold promise as a tool for cities to strengthen civic engagement and construct stronger communities. Four key lessons emerged from this study:
Adapting Games for Local Events
Cities should adapt AR platforms like Pokémon GO to reflect local strengths and wishes. For example, layering walking tours or scavenger hunts onto the sport can add value for players and integrate play with local campaigns.
Inviting Player Networks
Pokémon GO players often take part in groups and have existing social media networks. Cities can leverage these networks by tapping into their leaders, making recruitment easier and more practical.
Focusing Digital Activity Near Inviting Physical Spaces
Players are inclined to interact more when digital activities are situated near welcoming and accessible physical spaces with amenities like seating and food. This setup facilitates interactions amongst people from different backgrounds.
Bringing Local Culture to Online Platforms
While AR platforms can connect players to global cultures, they can even engage players with local culture, equivalent to murals and native history. Cities should spend money on technology innovations that enhance the invention of local culture within the digital age.
Conclusion
The partnership between the Knight Foundation and Niantic, Inc., demonstrated the potential of AR games like Pokémon GO to foster more engaged communities. By adapting games for local events, inviting player networks, focusing digital activity near inviting physical spaces, and bringing local culture to online platforms, cities can leverage technology to construct stronger, more vibrant communities. As technology continues to evolve, it’s crucial for city leaders to embrace these lessons and harness the ability of digital innovations to create cities which might be designed, driven by, and serve the individuals who live there.
