Plymouth Pokémon community recognised by US giant is being revived

The Pokémon community in Plymouth is relaunching and they want to use “the power of the game” to get people moving outside and talking every week. The gaming community is combining forces with other organisations to make POGO Catching Talks a regular event.

Tyler Rogers is the community ambassador for Pokémon Go Niantic HQ – the American software company. Niantic, Inc., based in San Francisco, created the game. Niantic HQ also supports Pokémon ambassadors in all corners of the world and helps people run events in their areas.

The leader of Plymouth’s POGO Group, Tyler, aged 29, is also working with Nicky Murrish from mental health organisation, Marbles Lost and Found. Trevor Higgins from the Argyle Community Trust is also onboard and the three communities are starting POGO Catching Talks in various city locations.

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Tyler said: “We’re aiming to work together to use the augmented reality game and the power of Pokémon to get people moving outside and talking every week on a Friday, so after school or work has finished for the day.

“Pokémon Go has been a great improvement in many people’s lives and has helped them in many ways with those suffering such as depression, anxiety of all types, physical illness, loneliness and much more. We’re aiming to inspire the people of Plymouth to take up the game for themselves and for kids of all ages to come along and get away from the struggles in their daily lives.

“It’s a great way to make new friends and get away from the world for an hour and to have fun again. We want to encourage and inspire people to use it as a source to help combat and improve on people’s personal physical and mental health that they may suffer in their daily lives. All ages and backgrounds are welcome.”

The weekly POGO Catching Talks will begin on Friday April 12 when the group will meet in Central Park at The Promenade Cafe Bar. After the first event, different locations will be rolled out every week.