Pokemon Go is a wildly popular augmented reality (AR) mobile game that has taken the world by storm. With its unique blend of virtual creatures and real-world locations, players are able to immerse themselves in a one-of-a-kind gaming experience. This beginner’s guide aims to demystify the use of AR in Pokemon Go, providing newcomers with a comprehensive overview of how to effectively utilize this innovative feature and enhance their gameplay. Whether you’re new to the world of augmented reality or a seasoned Pokemon Trainer, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and tips you need to make the most of AR in Pokemon Go.
Understanding Augmented Reality In Pokemon Go
Augmented Reality (AR) is a technology that superimposes computer-generated graphics onto the real world, creating an interactive and immersive experience. In the context of Pokémon Go, AR allows you to see virtual Pokémon in the real world through the camera on your mobile device.
When you activate AR mode in Pokémon Go, the game uses your device’s camera and gyroscope to track your movements and overlay Pokémon on the live video feed. This gives the illusion that the Pokémon are actually in your surroundings.
AR brings a whole new level of excitement and immersion to the Pokémon Go experience. It enables you to feel like a real Pokémon Trainer, as you can walk around and explore your environment while encountering and capturing Pokémon.
To use AR in Pokémon Go, ensure that your device has a working camera and gyroscope. You can then enable AR mode by tapping the AR toggle switch when encountering a wild Pokémon. This will activate the camera, and you can start catching Pokémon in an augmented reality environment.
Understanding how AR works in Pokémon Go is essential for beginners, as it forms the foundation for the various features and interactions within the game.
Setting Up The AR Feature In Pokemon Go
Setting up the AR feature in Pokemon Go is a simple process that adds a whole new level of immersion to your gameplay. Once you have installed the game on your device, follow these steps to enable the AR feature:
1. Launch the Pokemon Go app: Open the app on your device and make sure you have a stable internet connection.
2. Grant necessary permissions: When prompted, allow the app to access your camera and location. Both permissions are necessary for the AR feature to work properly.
3. Tap on the Pokeball icon: On the main screen, tap the Pokeball icon at the bottom of the screen to open the menu.
4. Access settings: In the menu, locate and tap on the “Settings” option.
5. Enable AR mode: Look for the “AR+” or “AR mode” option in the settings menu and toggle it on.
6. Test the AR feature: To confirm that the AR feature is working, go back to the main screen and encounter a wild Pokemon. When the encounter begins, you should see the Pokemon in an augmented reality view through your device’s camera.
Remember that using AR mode in Pokemon Go can be more battery-intensive and may drain your device’s battery more quickly. Additionally, using AR in bright sunlight or dark environments may affect the quality of the augmented reality experience.
Catching Pokemon with AR mode
When playing Pokemon Go, one of the most exciting aspects of the game is catching Pokemon in augmented reality mode. With the AR feature enabled, players can see the Pokemon superimposed onto the real world through their mobile device’s camera.
To catch Pokemon using AR mode, simply tap on a nearby Pokemon to initiate the catching process. The AR mode will activate, and the Pokemon will appear in front of you in the real world. Use your device’s screen to view the Pokemon and aim your Pokeball at it.
To increase your chances of successfully catching the Pokemon, pay attention to its movements and behavior. It may try to dodge or jump around, making it more challenging to hit. Adjust your aim accordingly and swipe the Pokeball towards the Pokemon to throw it and attempt to catch it.
Keep in mind that using AR mode can drain your device’s battery faster, so it’s a good idea to have a charger or portable power bank handy for longer play sessions. Additionally, playing in well-lit areas can improve the accuracy of the AR experience, as it relies on your device’s camera to function effectively.
Battling Gyms Using Augmented Reality
When it comes to battling gyms in Pokemon Go, augmented reality (AR) adds an immersive and exciting element to the experience. To engage in gym battles using AR, follow these steps:
1. Locate a Nearby Gym: Gyms are usually found at significant landmarks or popular locations. Once you find one, tap on it to enter the gym screen.
2. Choose Your Lineup: Before engaging in a gym battle, you will need to select a team of Pokemon to participate. Ensure your chosen Pokemon have type advantages over the defending Pokemon to increase your chances of winning.
3. Enable AR Mode: In the top right corner of the gym screen, you will find an AR switch. Tap it to toggle AR mode on.
4. Position Your Device: Find a flat surface in the real world where your Pokemon can stand during the battle. Move your device around until the augmented reality overlay lines up with your surroundings.
5. Battle Strategically: Once the AR mode is successfully enabled, you can start battling. Use the on-screen buttons to unleash attacks, dodge incoming attacks, and activate your Pokemon’s special moves.
Remember, AR mode can be disabled at any point during the battle by tapping the AR switch again. With AR, gym battles in Pokemon Go feel more engaging and bring your favorite Pokemon to life in the real world.
Customizing Your AR Experience In Pokemon Go
Customizing your AR experience in Pokemon Go allows you to personalize your gameplay and make it more enjoyable. Here are some tips on how to customize your AR experience in the game.
1. Turning AR on/off: To start customizing, you need to enable the AR mode. Tap the AR toggle switch on the main screen to turn it on. You can always turn it off if you prefer to play without augmented reality.
2. Choosing a preferred camera view: Pokemon Go offers two camera views – the default view and the fixed view. The default view follows your device’s orientation, while the fixed view keeps the Pokemon positioned in the same spot on your screen. Experiment with both and find the view that suits you best.
3. Adjusting the Pokémon position: Once in AR mode, you can tap on the Pokemon to reposition it within your environment. This allows you to take creative and fun pictures with your favorite Pokemon.
4. Utilizing AR+ (optional): If you have a device that supports AR+, you can enable this feature for an enhanced AR experience. AR+ allows Pokemon to dynamically interact with the environment, making encounters more realistic.
Customizing your AR experience in Pokemon Go is a great way to add a personal touch to your gameplay and immerse yourself further into the world of Pokemon. Have fun experimenting and finding the settings that bring you the most enjoyment!
Enhancing Your Pokemon Go Adventures With AR+
With the introduction of AR+, Pokemon Go takes augmented reality to the next level, providing a more immersive and interactive experience for players. AR+ uses advanced technology such as Google’s ARCore and Apple’s ARKit to blend Pokemon seamlessly into the real world, making them appear more lifelike and allowing for more realistic interactions.
To enhance your Pokemon Go adventures with AR+, follow these steps. First, make sure you have the latest version of Pokemon Go installed on your ARCore or ARKit compatible device. Next, enable the AR+ mode in the game settings. Once AR+ is activated, you’ll notice that Pokemon now have a more accurate scale and can move around in your environment.
When encountering a Pokemon, approach it slowly and quietly. Getting too close or making sudden movements may startle the Pokemon, causing it to flee. Additionally, be mindful of your surroundings, as Pokemon can now hide behind objects and utilize their surroundings to evade capture.
To successfully catch a Pokemon in AR+, you’ll need to carefully aim your Pokeball and throw it with precision. Pay attention to the rings around the Pokemon, as they indicate the difficulty level of capture. Green is easier, yellow is moderate, and red is harder. Utilize AR+ to get the best perspective on the Pokemon’s location and make more accurate throws.
AR+ also introduces a new capture bonus called “Expert Handler.” This bonus is awarded when you capture a Pokemon at a close distance, making your throws more effective and increasing the chance of a successful capture. Remember, patience is key when using AR+, as it may take a few attempts to master the new mechanics.
By embracing AR+ in Pokemon Go, you can take your adventures to a whole new level, capturing Pokemon in a more realistic and engaging way. Enjoy the immersive experience and make the most of the advanced features provided by AR+ to become a true Pokemon master.
Troubleshooting Common Issues With AR In Pokemon Go
In this section, we will explore some common issues that players may encounter when using augmented reality (AR) in Pokemon Go and offer troubleshooting tips to help resolve them.
1. Device Compatibility: Some older devices may not fully support the AR feature in Pokemon Go. Ensure that your device meets the minimum requirements for AR functionality.
2. Camera Permissions: If the AR mode is not working, check your device settings to ensure that Pokemon Go has access to your camera. Go to Settings > Apps > Pokemon Go > Permissions and enable the camera permission.
3. Calibration: If the Pokemon appear misaligned or too far away when using AR mode, try calibrating the AR feature. Go to the Pokemon capture screen, tap on the AR toggle, and follow the on-screen instructions to recalibrate.
4. Lighting Conditions: AR can be affected by lighting conditions. Ensure that you are in a well-lit area, but avoid direct sunlight or excessive glare, as it may interfere with the AR experience.
5. Slow Performance: If your device is experiencing performance issues while using AR, try closing other apps running in the background and clearing some memory space to improve performance.
6. Restarting the App: If all else fails, try closing and reopening the Pokemon Go app. This simple step can often resolve minor AR-related issues.
By following these troubleshooting tips, you should be able to overcome common issues and fully enjoy the augmented reality feature in Pokemon Go. Happy hunting!
Tips And Tricks For Using AR Effectively In Pokemon Go
In this section, you’ll discover some valuable tips and tricks to enhance your AR experience in Pokemon Go and make the most out of this exciting feature.
1. Stability is Key: Keep your phone as stable as possible while using AR mode. Hold it with both hands to avoid shaky movements, ensuring more accurate tracking of Pokemon.
2. Center your Subject: When a Pokemon appears, try to align it in the center of your screen. This will help the game better recognize and scale the Pokemon in relation to the real world.
3. Consider Lighting Conditions: Adequate lighting is important for a better AR experience. Avoid overly bright or dimly lit environments, as they can affect the visibility of Pokemon.
4. Go Slowly: Take your time while capturing Pokemon in AR mode. Move slowly and adjust your position gradually to ensure the Pokemon stays within the camera frame.
5. Experiment with Angles: Don’t be afraid to change your viewing angle. Trying different perspectives can provide unique and interesting AR captures, allowing you to capture Pokemon in creative and fun ways.
6. Use AR+ (if available): If your device supports it, consider enabling AR+. This feature leverages advanced AR technology to place Pokemon more realistically in your surroundings, providing a more immersive experience.
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the AR functionality in Pokemon Go and taking your gameplay to new heights.
FAQ
FAQ 1: What is AR in Pokemon Go?
AR, short for Augmented Reality, is a feature in Pokemon Go that allows players to see and interact with virtual Pokemon superimposed on the real world through their smartphone camera. It adds a layer of immersion by making it seem as though the Pokemon are present in your surroundings.
FAQ 2: How can I enable AR in Pokemon Go?
To enable AR in Pokemon Go, follow these steps:
1. Open the Pokemon Go app on your smartphone.
2. Go to the Map View screen, where you see your character walking around the real world map.
3. Tap on the Pokeball icon at the bottom center of the screen to open the main menu.
4. Tap on the Settings icon at the top right corner.
5. Scroll down to find the “AR+” option and toggle it on.
6. You can now encounter and catch Pokemon using AR mode.
FAQ 3: What are the benefits of using AR in Pokemon Go?
Using AR in Pokemon Go offers several benefits:
1. Enhanced immersion: AR makes the Pokemon appear in the real world, allowing you to feel like a Pokemon Trainer in your surroundings.
2. Interactive gameplay: AR allows you to physically move around to locate and catch Pokemon, adding an extra layer of engagement.
3. Photo opportunities: AR mode enables you to take pictures of Pokemon in real-life settings, creating fun and unique memories of your Pokemon encounters.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, utilizing AR in Pokemon Go can greatly enhance the gaming experience for beginners. By enabling the augmented reality feature, players are able to interact with virtual Pokemon in the real world, making the game more immersive and exciting. Additionally, using AR can also aid in improving one’s understanding of the game mechanics and provide a more realistic sense of exploration. So, for those new to Pokemon Go, incorporating AR into their gameplay is certainly worth trying to fully enjoy the adventure and catch ’em all.