It's been about a month since Pokemon GO took over America. The craze shows no sign of stopping anytime soon.
So, what makes the game so appealing - and what does that mean for marketing?
Fun for all ages
Well for starters, many people in their twenties and up are playing for nostalgic reasons - not only do they get the chance to play an old favorite in a new way, but they also have the opportunity to share the experience with their friends.
Younger generations either already knew about the game or have joined in the craze because of how new (and free) the app is. This game has got children and teenagers out and about (granted still on their cell phones) exploring their own town in groups with their friends.
Motivating for various reasons
Some people may focus on adding to their collection, while others want to rule as many gyms as possible. Either way you look at it, people have more than one reason to be playing the game.
No matter which one (or both) people are focusing on, one thing is a constant - they need to find Pokestops. The great things about these stops is that the player never knows what they'll gain from the stop.
This means that if they're looking to gather more of something, such as Pokeballs, they might end up walking to one or more stops.
Real and virtual
Pokemon GO maker Niantic has done a great job of including real elements in the virtual game. With Google's mapping, they have an seemingly accurate map of places and sites to make their stops. They've placed actual pictures of the place for these stops, which make it not only helpful for those walking around in a new area to find the stop, but makes the game more real.
They've also created new ways for people to post about their captures (or failed attempts) on social media. Incorporating all these ideas appeals to many people who love to share what they are doing.
This is the game that never ends...
There are so many facets to this game that people will be playing for a while because it's not something that you can finish easily - especially if you are one of those people who are trying to control gyms.
What does that mean for marketing?
Many businesses are trying hard to get on the map. Thankfully Niantic's CEO has announced that soon your business could become a Pokestop.
The game has lead to an increase in sales for many local business - but even if yours is not one of the "chosen few," there are still ways you can reap the rewards by being friendly to those playing the game and staying active about it on your social media.
This could include placing signs about Pokemon GO specials outside your business, encouraging people to tag pictures of characters they caught, or just putting something fun up that is related to them and your business.