More tablet/smartphone-based Augmented Reality games based on popular franchise are being made every day for those fans to play. While the technology is still at its infancy (i.e. requiring you to stare at a screen than the world), smart glasses is still not a thing and neuro interfaces are not likely to arrive soon. They are fun diversions to pass the time with. Unless noted, these games are available for both iOS and Android.
In no particular order:
At present, Pokémon GO is the king of the hill. Niantic Inc helped put the AR movement in the spotlight. It’s tough to catch them all, especially when there’s now more than 400 little monsters to grab. The gameplay is simple. Some can equate catching these pocket monsters akin to playing darts with pokéballs and this game still lacks an essential feature akin to Tamagotchi to make raising them to be just like the franchise it should be part of.
Newcomers will find the struggle real and those still playing since its launch are likely to say, not another ditto. Thankfully, bi-weekly and monthly in-game events try to keep the game fresh.
Harry Potter: Wizards Unite (also by Niantic) is the most anticipated game that is now out. Players have to make healing and power-up potions in order to deal with Foundables and Confoundables that litter the world. The fact that a storyline exists to keep the player engaged is very attractive, but is there an end-game? Expect a full review in the coming days.
(continued in next page)
