The gaming industry is a big part of our modern society. It is constantly evolving thanks to different technological advancements and changing player preferences. One of the latest innovations is the integration of location tracking (like ones in phone number tracker apps) in games. This feature uses GPS technology to track players' real-world locations. It is claimed to be a game-changer by some and dismissed as a fleeting fad by others. So, is location tracking in games a new trend or just a temporary thing? We are going to explore this phenomenon in detail together.
Location-Based Games
Location tracking in games isn't entirely new, if to be honest. It gained mainstream attention with the launch of Pokémon GO in 2016. Players could capture virtual creatures in real-world locations with this game. Its success was unprecedented: millions of players around the world downloaded it to catch Pokémon, battle at gyms and complete quests.
But how do the games of this type work?
Players must move around in the real world to progress in the game (yes, it is even useful for their health, as it encourages physical activity and outdoor exploration).
Many location-based games use AR to overlay virtual objects onto the real world and other social elements, e.g., multiplayer battles or events that are proven to have a positive influence on social interaction among players.
Popular Examples
We have already mentioned Pokémon GO. However, there are several other location-based games that are rather popular. They are as follows:
Ingress
It was developed by Niantic before Pokémon GO. Ingress involves capturing portals that are located at real-world landmarks. Players choose between two factions and work to control these portals: they link them and create fields over geographical areas. The game requires strategic thinking and collaboration with other players.
Harry Potter: Wizards Unite
Another Niantic creation is the Harry Potter: Wizards Unite game. It turns players into wizards who must capture magical creatures and artifacts in the real world. The game is based on the AR technology, so players can see magical elements in their environment, cast spells and participate in events that further the storyline.
Jurassic World Alive
Players collect and battle dinosaurs that appear in their surroundings. The game’s AR makes dinosaurs appear in the player's environment, and they, in turn, can create hybrid dinosaurs, if they collect DNA samples.
Benefits of Location-Based Gaming
One of the most significant benefits of these games is that they can promote physical activity. We understand that traditional video games just keep players sedentary. But these ones make people move and exercise. Walking, jogging and exploring are main parts of the gameplay. It is a fun way to stay active for players.
Location-based games often are social, as players can meet and interact with others. Different events, group battles and collaborative quests are held, this makes it easier to find new friends or even to build couples.
The integration of AR and real-world exploration creates a highly immersive gaming experience. The game is feeled as the real-world actions of players that directly impact their virtual progress.
Challenges and Concerns
One of the primary issues about location-based games is privacy. Tracking players' real locations seems to be insecure in regard to data security and potential misuse of personal information. Game developers must ensure robust privacy policies and secure data handling practices to address these concerns and familiarize users with them.
For example, location-based games collect big amounts of data, e.g., location history, movement patterns, user behavior, etc. This data must be protected to prevent unauthorized access and misuse.
Clear and transparent user consent is one of the most important things. Players should be fully informed about what data is being collected, how it will be used, and who will have access to it.
To enhance privacy, developers can anonymize data, so that users cannot be identified from the data collected.
Not only is safety online important. Players may become distracted while playing. This may lead to accidents or unsafe situations. Developers must implement safety features, e.g., alerts and warnings, to fight these risks.
Distraction: Players who focus on their screens may not pay attention to their surroundings. This increases the risk of accidents.
Unsafe Areas: Games must avoid directing players to dangerous or private areas.
Weather and Time: Games should account for weather conditions and time of day.
Not all players have the same ability to participate in location-based games. Physical disabilities, geographic location, and limited access to safe outdoor spaces can restrict participation. Developers need to consider these factors to make games more inclusive. For example:
Physical Mobility: Games should offer options for players with limited mobility, e.g., accessible gameplay features that don't require extensive physical movement.
Geographic Disparities: Players in rural or less developed areas may have fewer landmarks and points of interest to interact with.
Inclusive Design: Design features that accommodate all the abilities and circumstances can make games more accessible to everyone.
The Future of Location-Based Gaming
Technology continues to advance. That’s why the capabilities of location-based games will only improve. Here’s what we expect to have:
5G Connectivity: Faster and more reliable internet connections will enable real-time interactions and seamless gameplay.
Advanced AR: Improvements in AR technology will create more realistic and interactive virtual objects in the real world.
Wearable Tech: Devices (e.g., smart glasses and wearable sensors) can enhance the immersive experience.
New Genres: Expect to see location-based games expanding into new genres, e.g., education, fitness, adventure.
Educational Tools: Games that teach history, geography and science.
Tourism Enhancements: Interactive tours and scavenger hunts that make visiting new places more interesting.
Go and Play
So, is geo-gaming the next big thing or a passing fad? We are convinced that the first option is more plausible. Technology does not stand still - its constant development will lead to the fact that soon we will get an even more immersive gaming experience.
What exactly will happen? For now, we can only guess. Although we will not be surprised if you are reading this article a year after its publication, everything in the world has already changed dramatically. So let's not sit still, but try geo-games and look forward to the future.
