Fans eager for launch of Pokemon Go in Singapore

SINGAPORE: Some have already mapped out possible locations to “catch” the game’s cuddly virtual pocket monsters, and take part in the latest global mobile game sensation.

With Pokemon Go’s debut in Japan on Friday, Singapore fans of the wildly popular game expect it to be launched here soon and are getting ready and set to go.

Some have already mapped out possible locations to “catch” the game’s cuddly virtual pocket monsters, and take part in the latest global mobile game sensation.

Using what is known as augmented reality, the game allows players to see these virtual creatures in reallife locations through the lens of a smartphone camera. Places where these creatures battle or gather are called “gyms” and “Pokestops”.

Fourteen-year-old Nicole Oo is convinced that a “Pokestop” will be at the Old Ford Motor Factory at Upper Bukit Timah Road, now closed for renovation. She said she has an advantage as she lives in a condominium behind the factory.

“I will go close to the edge of my condo to access the Pokestop at the factory to get balls to ‘catch’ any Pokemon that show up,” said the avid gamer, who aims to nab all 151 of the game’s creaures.

Tan Jing Jie, 22, who is doing national service, said he spotted two “gyms” near his home in Hillview when he downloaded the version of the game released in Australia. This worked for a while before it was locked down.

“I will be visiting these ‘gyms’ after I book out from camp every night when the game is available,” said Tan.

Pokemon Go has been a global phenomenon since it was first released in the United States, Australia and New Zealand on July 6.

It is now available in more than 35 countries, where it is free to download on both the iOS and Android operating systems.

However, on the flip side, the game has also led to reports of gamers breaking into private properties, raising huge security and privacy concerns. — The Straits Times /Asia News Network