Pokémon go celebrates 10 years of bringing players together, still going strong

Pokémon Go, the mobile app that uses GPS and augmented reality to let players find and catch virtual monsters in real-world locations, is celebrating its 10th anniversary. The game has been downloaded more than a billion times across iOS and Android devices, with millions still logging on each day, proving that the decade-old phenomenon remains as popular as ever.

Since its launch in 2016, Pokémon Go has transformed how people interact with the franchise, encouraging players to explore their surroundings and connect with others. Michael Steranka, vice president of product at the game’s publisher Scopely, says the Pokémon Go experience has always been about bringing people together. “Pokémon Go will always start with community we think we’re only scratching the surface here,” he said. “We often receive wedding invites from players who met through Pokémon Go… because it’s been such an integral part of their relationship.”

In 2025, some fans questioned how the game’s future might change when Scopely, which is itself owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, bought developer Niantic for $3.5 billion. “My hope is that we prove to players over time that this is definitively a good thing for the game and the community,” Steranka said. Looking ahead, he says the focus remains on community, memories, and creating experiences families can share. “No matter where I was and what phase of my life, Pokémon Go has been there for me. It meets people where they are, at whatever phase of life they’re in.”

Over the years, the game has sometimes been a victim of its own hype. Police and safety groups once warned players not to become so engrossed in catching the next Psyduck that they got lost or put themselves in danger. The game’s immense popularity also meant “servers buckled under the strain,” causing connectivity problems for some time. While the pandemic was seen as a boon for many in the video game industry, Steranka says the initial strict lockdowns “impacted Pokémon Go probably more than any other game out there.” The game later bounced back as restrictions eased and people once again looked for reasons to get outside.

As Pokémon Go enters its second decade, it remains a beloved part of many players’ lives, continuing to foster community and encourage exploration. The game’s longevity is a testament to its unique blend of technology, nostalgia, and social connection, ensuring that the hunt for Pokémon will continue for years to come.