Pokemon Go! hasn't revealed official sponsorship formats yet, but that hasn't stopped brands jumping on the augmented reality phenomenon. We look at five of the best examples of companies taking advantage of the latest mobile gaming craze...
In the wake of its tremendous popularity, everyone’s wondering about is how Pokémon Go intends to make money.
In addition to in-app purchases, Niantic chief John Hanke has said that the game intends to create “sponsored locations,” as they did with their earlier game Ingress.
Until then, brands have been making use of broadcasting Pokestops, offering tips and getting their brand involved in Nintendo's latest gaming sensation.
Best Buy
The US retial giant came up with Pokemon Go! hunting kits, including water, spare mobile batteries and beef jerky.
TruliaExtra batteries, beef jerky, and more: The @BestBuy in Virginia Beach is helping #PokemonGO trainers #CatchEmAll pic.twitter.com/833mmOlUdG
— Best Buy News (@BBYNews) July 11, 2016
The property site used its mapping platform to offer tips on where to find certain types of Pokemon- neatly tying in its location software with the game.
Ditching work to catch more Pokemon?
— Trulia (@trulia) July 14, 2016
Totally worth it.https://t.co/Y5ec9gBkXl #Cheat #Map pic.twitter.com/crS7b43BLk
Cincinati Zoo
The attraction used Pokemon Go! to emphasise that it offers free outside Wi-Fi at player hunt for digital critters amonst the real-life ones.
Remember to watch where you're walking while you catch 'em all! #PokemonGo is better with #ZooFreeWiFi! pic.twitter.com/1vEiPzCMGd
— Cincinnati Zoo (@CincinnatiZoo) July 11, 2016
Strand Book Store
This iconic New York retailer discovered it was a 'Pokestop', where players can restock and buy equipment during their hunts. It made use of its status with this tweet.
Get your restock of pokeballs at the Strand! ?? Your favorite literary #PokeStop destination. #PokemonGo pic.twitter.com/M9ofttfLJP
— Strand Book Store (@strandbookstore) July 11, 2016
Fuzzy's Taco Shop
This fast food restaurant was alerted by followers that several Pokemon where in its restaurant- making you to pass on the news to bring in more players (and potential customers).
Just another reason to come by #FuzzysTacoShop today. Thanks for the report, @MatthewGrant10. #PokemonGo pic.twitter.com/lYWNOEZQPN
— Fuzzy's Taco Shop (@fuzzystacoshop) July 11, 2016
