Pokémon GO and its influence on Spanish Facebook users

Abstract

Pokémon GO is an extremely popular mobile game worldwide which merges the virtual world with the real world using augmented reality (AR), and requiring players to physically move. For this reason, the objective of this research was to study the influence of this game on Spanish Facebook users. The sample consisted of 714 subjects (444 males and 270 females) who played Pokémon GO. The data studied were gathered via an ad-hoc questionnaire. The results show that there was an increase in physical activity; users of Pokémon GO play with fellow players and meet new people, plus they also get to know new streets and points of interest in their city; and finally, there has been an increase in their outings into nature. In conclusion, Pokémon GO fosters physical activity, social relations and the discovery of the city and nature.