Summary
If you’re looking for new ways to scratch thatPokémonitch untilPokémon Legends Z-Alaunchesat some point this year, then look no further than Google.
Yes, you read that right.
In a new Easter Egg launched on Friday, you’re able to “catch” Pokémon from the original 151 by simply searching them up on Google. Doing so will add them to your virtual Pokédex, where you can also share your results with friends.
“Pokémon is such an iconic franchise, and we are definitely big fans here at Google,” Michelle Chou, Google’s Entertainment Product Manager, told TheGamer. “We wanted to create an experience for our users that matches the playfulness of Pokémon while bringing surprise and delight to Pokémon fans organically looking up characters on Search.
“In the U.S. this year, searches for “Pokémon card” reached an all-time high, so we know there is a lot of interest from our users as well in the franchise.”
Gotta Search ‘Em All
To participate, it’s as easy as searching for a Pokémon, then tapping on the Poke Ball icon in the lower right of your screen. As you catch more Pokémon, you’ll earn Master Balls to then use on Legendary or Mythical Pokémon, just as you would in the games.
For instance, Mew requires a Master Ball, otherwise it’ll simply break free after attempting to “catch” it.
When a Pokémon is caught, it’s added to your Pokédex. In case you somehow have forgotten the names of all 151 original Pokémon, then silhouette icons in the dex will let you know who you’re missing.
As it stands, the experience is only available on mobile devices using the Google app. Google tells us that there are no plans to expand beyond the original 151 Pokémon, so if you’re the type that likes to search for things quickly, then it’s probably best to take things a little slower.
Either way, it’s an extremely neat little game to pass the time. The only question is: which Pokémon are you going to catch first? It’s gotta be Pikachu, right?
