Unless you've been living under a rock for the past 7 days, you may have noticed that a new app is taking over the world - Pokémon GO!
Since the game's release earlier this month, Nintendo's stock has skyrocketed. The app already has more downloads than Tinder in the US, is on the verge of overtaking Twitter in terms of daily active users and it hasn't even been released in Europe or Asia yet.
Pokémon Go is reportedly set to be released in Ireland "within a few days" so we've decided to put together a handy guide to get you up to speed.
Here's everything you need to know about Pokémon GO but were too afraid to ask.
What is Pokémon?
Pokémon began as a series of video games for the original Game Boy back in 1995. The game involved catching fictional creatures known as Pokémon before training them to go into battle.
The Nintendo owned franchise now spans video games, trading card games, animated television shows and movies, comic books, and toys.
The most well-known Pokémon is Pikachu, who you will probably recognise.
Have a listen to the Pokémon theme tune. (It's really catchy)
What is Pokémon Go?
The game, which is described as "a real world adventure", uses augmented reality, GPS and time to allow fans to chase Pokémon through real life city streets. This means Pokémon appear as you move around depending on where you are and what time it is.
The game uses your phone's camera so you will get the impression that there is a Pokémon in front of you or in this instance on the Luas.
Okay so this is VERY fun! #PokemonGO pic.twitter.com/LZIpfRWWPZ
— Graeme Dowling (@BlubberyGiraffe) July 6, 2016
Players are encouraged to get on their feet and step outside to search far and wide in the real world to discover Pokémon like Ash Ketchum does in the TV show. So, it's basically a game/fitness app.
Once you've found a Pokémon, take aim on your smartphone's touch screen and throw a Pokéball to catch it. The idea is to catch as many as possible to earn medals.
Check out this short explainer video.
Hang on, what is a Pokéball?
Users are given a limited number of Pokéballs. You can trap wild Pokémon by throwing these balls at them using a flicking motion with your finger on your screen.
To get more pokéballs, you must walk to different Pokéstops. These are usually at interesting places in your city.
Do I have to leave the house?
If you fancy spending a lot of Pokécoins, you can lure them into your gaf but there's already evidence that the app is helping depressed people to get out and about. Fresh air and exercise is always beneficial.
One of the great things about Pokémon GO is the game's social aspect. There have been stories from all over the world of instances of users helping each other to find Pokémon.
Can I play against someone else?
The game currently doesn't have a multiplayer feature to allow you to battle/trade with friends like the original handheld games but the original trailer suggests that it could be on the way.
How much does it cost?
Pokémon Go is free to download for Android and iOS users, but there are also micro transactions which allow you to buy Pokécoins, Pokéballs, Incense, Egg Incubators and Eggs.
How can I download it if I live in Ireland?
You can play the game in Ireland now if you download an American/Australian iTunes account if you're on iOS. Meanwhile, Android users can download the APK file and install the app manually.
Some players have reportedly been banned for doing this.
So there you have it. It doesn't look like the Pokémon GO phenomenon will slow down any time soon and we reckon it's going to take over Ireland when it's released here.
You may soon be be sick of hearing about people trying to get their paws on Pikachu, but the game gives people the opportunity to get out and explore the world, and catch some Pokémon along the way!
