I feel this simple little game has been very good for me. Ever since my husband passed away close to two years ago, I've been living the life of a recluse. Yes, I became THAT woman in the house down the street. Now that I have the game, I am going out every day...stepping outside my comfort zone. This morning I went to the park and WALKED for 30 minutes. Now, keep in mind I use either a cane or walker to get around and walking is very difficult for me. I am usually embarrassed about this. But I found today people don't really see that. They smile and wish a good morning. They are chasing that elusive Pikachu just like me. They don't point and laugh at the disabled old woman hobbling along slowing them down. They SMILED at me and made the sun shine just a little bit more. Thank you for this wonderful new game and a new lease on life.
It’s been an incredible run since launch and, as we start wrapping up the summer in California, we want to thank all the Trainers for the enthusiasm they have shown for the game.
Pokémon GO has been installed hundreds of millions of times since our launch in early July and is played in more than 100 countries around the world. We are working hard to bring the game to more (India, we hear you!). All that and we’ve only scratched the surface of gameplay that we want to create. It’s been terrific to see all the activity throughout the world. Most inspiring has been the response from people of all ages and lifestyles describing how Pokémon GO has been force for good in their lives. We set out to create an experience that encourages discovery, exercise and real world connections and it has been incredible to see that mission come to life.
New stories have surfaced virtually daily about Trainers getting out into the real world, becoming more healthy, meeting neighbors, and helping kids. We've also heard from people using the game to cope with social anxiety, depression and autism, and even using it to improve their relationships. We have heard from tens of thousands of you directly, including amazing examples such as Kelly, who emailed us to tell her story about getting out finding a new sense of purpose. We have seen dozens of self-organized player events, some with humanitarian goals such as Pokémon for Progress. All of your stories and smiles have motivated us through sleepless nights.
Thank you for your continued support! We’ve got a lot more in the works this fall. Stay tuned here for all the details.
John Hanke and the team at Niantic