Get ready to join the global hunt for Pokémon, as Nintendo’s mobile game Pokémon Go launches in parts of Europe.
It is with the utmost happiness and no trace of bitterness whatsoever that this Danish writer can report that Nintendo and Niantic have now made Pokémon Go available in the U.K. and Germany.
This morning, the lucky European Pokémon fans were delighted to find the popular game available for their iPhones and Android phones, meaning everyone can now play it safely and legally. Good luck trying to catch up with everyone who’s been downloading the game through unofficial channels since it launched in New Zealand, Australia and the U.S. last Wednesday! We’re hoping (!) for the rest of Europe to get access to the game soon, too.
Related: Pokémon Go: 7 tips for success from a dedicated trainer
Meanwhile the rest of the world including South America, Asia and Canada are still waiting for the game to launch. Nintendo and Niantic have cited server issues as the reason for the delay, wanting to make sure they can keep up with the massive surge of activity. U.S. players have been complaining of lags and lockouts, although the most recent update seemed to fix most bugs for many people yesterday.
Pokémon Go is an augmented reality game placing Pokémon in the real world using the smartphone’s tracker and camera functions. Players can find Pokéspots and gyms, battle each other, hatch eggs, and compete to become the very best. There have already been reports of bizarre game-related accidents and violations of the law, however, so take care when you hunt for Pokémon!
Have fun! And if you’re still waiting for Pokémon Go to arrive in your country as well, let’s commiserate together right here.