Pokémon GO Players Walk Over 8.7 Billion Kilometers Since Launch, Niantic Celebrates Global Milestone
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Published on: December 20, 2016
Description
Since its groundbreaking debut on iOS and Android devices in July 2016, Pokémon GO has become a global sensation, blending augmented reality with the classic mechanics of Pokémon to engage players in outdoor adventures on a massive scale.
Developed by Niantic in partnership with Nintendo and The Pokémon Company, Pokémon GO’s innovative gameplay has driven unparalleled levels of physical activity among its user base, and the latest official statistics reveal just how far trainers have gone—literally.
On December 7th, Niantic announced an astonishing achievement: Pokémon GO users worldwide have walked a combined total of more than 8.7 billion kilometers since the app's launch.
To put this phenomenal figure into context, this distance is equivalent to traveling around the circumference of the Earth over 200,000 times.
Remarkably, it would take a commercial airliner over a thousand years to fly the same distance, underscoring the extraordinary collective activity fueled by the mobile game.
In addition to the record-breaking walking distance, Niantic shared another impressive statistic: players have caught more than 88 billion Pokémon globally, which translates to approximately 533 million Pokémon captured each day.
These figures are a testament to the game’s enduring popularity and the dedication of its worldwide community.
To commemorate these achievements, the Pokémon GO team released a special video on YouTube, celebrating the ongoing enthusiasm and unity among trainers across continents.
A spokesperson from Niantic expressed their gratitude, noting that these numbers represent not only an exceptional milestone for the app but also highlight the positive health and social impacts inspired by Pokémon GO since its original release.
Pokémon GO’s integration with the Nintendo ecosystem, including compatibility with devices such as the Nintendo Switch and various Pokémon titles, has further strengthened its position within the gaming industry.
Its prominent presence on the eShop and continuous updates during events like Nintendo Direct have kept the momentum strong, ensuring ongoing player engagement.
These cumulative figures underscore Niantic’s success in developing a mobile gaming experience that encourages exploration, community interaction, and a healthy lifestyle—qualities that remain integral to both the Pokémon brand and the broader Nintendo philosophy.
With over 8.7 billion kilometers walked and 88 billion Pokémon caught, Pokémon GO continues to redefine the possibilities of interactive gaming on mobile platforms, solidifying its legacy as one of the most influential and successful games in both Nintendo’s and Niantic’s portfolio.
