Pokémon GO is a free Android game from Scopely Explore, Inc. with over 500 million installs on Google Play. It sends players outdoors to find and catch Pokémon in the real world, and it has been running since July 5, 2016. The current version is 0.435.1, updated on October 29, 2026.
Who a walking-based Pokémon game suits
The game fits people who like Pokémon and are happy to play while moving around town. Progress depends on location, so a commute, a park visit or a walk is where it works best. It is rated Everyone on Google Play, which makes it open to a broad age range.
It is built for smartphones and is not optimized for tablets. Players who only have a tablet should expect a weaker fit.
Catching, Buddies, Gyms and Raids in practice
The core loop is exploring, spotting Pokémon and catching them to fill your Pokédex. You can also pick a Buddy Pokémon and travel with it to strengthen it and earn rewards.
Competition comes through Gym battles. Raid Battles add a team element, where you join other Trainers to catch powerful Pokémon. The game stays close to the real world, so the experience changes with where you are.
Device needs, GPS and what it costs
The game needs an Android device with at least 2GB of RAM, and the minimum system version is Android 9 for the current build. Devices without GPS may not work, and neither may devices that only connect over Wi-Fi. A network connection is also recommended so your location is reported accurately. Even devices with a suitable system version may fail to run it.
Installing is free and the game shows no ads. In-game purchases are available, so spending is optional but present. On Google Play it holds a 3.5 rating from about 15.4 million ratings.
Pokémon GO pros and cons
Pros
- Free to install, with no ads shown
- Catching, Buddy and Pokédex progress rely on real-world exploring
- Gym battles and team Raid Battles give players goals beyond catching
- Rated Everyone on Google Play
- Over 500 million installs on Google Play
Cons
- In-game purchases are part of the game
- Not optimized for tablets
- Devices without GPS or with Wi-Fi only may not be compatible
- Google Play rating is a modest 3.5 from about 15.4 million ratings
Is Pokémon GO safe?
Pokémon GO is published by Scopely Explore, Inc. and is distributed through Google Play, where it has over 500 million installs. It shows no ads and carries an Everyone content rating. The game uses location to function, and in-game purchases are available, so review device permissions and spending settings before you play.
How to install Pokémon GO
- Press the Google Play button on this page.
- Check the listing in the Play Store and press Install.
- Open Pokémon GO when the install finishes. Updates arrive through Google Play.
