Pokémon GO

What is Pokémon GO?

Pokémon GO is an adventure game for Android in which players explore their surroundings to find and catch creatures. It is listed on Google Play in the Adventure category and is developed by Scopely Explore, Inc.

The game is free to download and play. Its store listing shows more than 566 million installs and a 3.5 out of 5 rating from about 15.4 million ratings.

How does Pokémon GO work?

The game uses your phone's location and map, so movement in the real world is a core part of play. Players walk to different spots to discover creatures, visit landmarks, and collect items.

Battles and catching are done on the screen, while progress builds over time as you move around. Because the experience depends on location, it works best when you are outdoors and able to move safely.

What's new in version 0.433.1?

Version 0.433.1 was last updated on 2026-10-23. The developer describes it as a small update focused on minor bug fixes and performance improvements.

No major new features are listed for this version, so the update mainly aims to make the app run more smoothly.

Android requirements and download size

Pokémon GO requires Android 9 or later. Check the device requirement on Google Play before installing, since older phones may not be supported.

The store listing does not provide a download size in the facts available here, so check the Google Play page for the current figure and free storage needs.

Is Pokémon GO free, and does it have ads?

The app is free to download. The store listing says it does not contain ads, but it does offer in-app purchases for optional items and extras.

Players who prefer not to spend money can still play, though some features may be easier with purchases. Check the in-app purchase details on the Google Play page before buying.

Pros and cons

On the plus side, the game encourages outdoor movement, costs nothing to start, and has a very large player base. The lack of ads is also a benefit for many players.

On the downside, in-app purchases are available, the rating of 3.5 out of 5 suggests mixed opinions, and location-based play requires a phone with location access and a willingness to move around.

Who is Pokémon GO best for?

Pokémon GO suits players who enjoy exploring their neighborhood, walking, and collecting creatures. It is a good fit for people who like casual, short sessions rather than long, fixed-location play.

It may be less suitable for players who want a game they can use indoors without moving, or who prefer to avoid in-app purchases.