“Pokémon Go,” Nintendo’s new mobile game, is officially available in the U.S. on iOS and Android — and based on the early reaction, it looks like a hit.
The Japanese game maker began rolling the app out in Australia and New Zealand yesterday, causing distressed Pokéman fans in the U.S. to take to the Internet, wondering when it would be their turn to catch ’em all.
Due to the incredible number of #PokemonGO downloads, some Trainers may experience sign-up difficulties. Don’t worry, our team is on it!
— Pokémon GO (@PokemonGoApp) July 7, 2016
In less than 24 hours, “Pokémon Go” became iTunes top free game in the U.S. The app promises an interactive experience, letting users “capture” Pokémon in the physical world and battle as part of one of three teams.
“As you walk around a neighborhood, your smartphone will vibrate when there’s a Pokémon nearby,” says Nintendo. “Take aim and throw a Poké Ball… You’ll have to stay alert, or it might get away!”
The game was created by developer Niantic in partnership with Nintendo and The Pokemon Co. Nintendo has a large stake in Pokemon and works closely on the flagship franchise.
Nintendo, which has U.S. headquarters in Redmond, Wash., announced plans to roll out several mobile apps earlier this year. Its first app, Miitomo, debuted in April amid mixed reviews. Nintendo has been criticized for arriving to the mobile gaming party so late, but Pokémon Go’s warm reception shows that thousands of fans were willing to wait.
