If you’re an avid Pokémon Go player or simply enjoy exploring the augmented reality (AR) world, you’ve likely thought about how great it would be to have a Pokestop right in your neighborhood or near your favorite coffee shop. The good news? You can nominate new Pokestops! This guide will walk you through the process of how to create Pokestops while adhering to Niantic’s guidelines.
What is a Pokestop?
Pokestops are in-game landmarks in Pokémon Go where players can collect valuable items like Poké Balls, berries, and potions. These spots enhance gameplay and encourage players to explore their local surroundings. But Pokestops aren’t randomly generated; they exist because players nominate them.
Why Create Pokestops?
- Enrich the Gameplay: More Pokestops mean more chances to gather resources.
- Community Engagement: Pokestops are great for bringing players together.
- Showcase Local Gems: You can highlight hidden historical landmarks, works of art, or unique spots in your community.
Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Pokestops
Step 1. Understand Niantic’s Criteria
Before nominating a location, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with Niantic’s eligibility requirements. Pokestops must meet specific criteria, such as being safe, publicly accessible, and significant in some way. Some examples include:
- Local landmarks or historical markers
- Parks, playgrounds, or gathering spaces
- Unique works of art (e.g., sculptures or murals)
They must not be located in schools, cemeteries, private residences, or restricted areas.
Step 2. Identify a Good Location
Walk around your neighborhood and look for potential candidates that meet Niantic’s criteria. Good locations are:
- Safe and Accessible: Make sure the spot is easy to reach, such as sidewalks or public parks.
- Visually Interesting: Places with unique visual elements (murals, sculptures) have greater chances of approval.
- Popular with the Community: Locations that are known gathering spots are ideal.
Step 3. Submit the Nomination Through the Pokémon Go App
Once you’ve found a candidate worth nominating, follow these steps to submit:
- Open the Pokémon Go App and go to Settings.
- Select ‘New Pokestop nomination’.
- Use the map to position the marker exactly at the location of your proposed Pokestop.
- Upload a high-quality photo of the location that clearly shows what it is and why it’s significant.
Step 4. Provide Supporting Information
The app will ask you to provide details to support your nomination:
- Title: Create a good title that matches the location (e.g., “Bluebird Coffee Shop Mural”).
- Description: Write a concise and compelling description of why the spot is interesting or important.
- Additional Photos (Optional): Add photos of the surrounding area to show that the location is safe and accessible.
Step 5. Participate in the Wayfarer System
Niantic’s Wayfarer platform allows experienced players to review nominations. After submitting your nomination:
- Track your submission’s status in the Wayfarer system.
- You can also join the Wayfarer program to vote on other players’ nominations. This is a great way to learn what works and what doesn’t.
Step 6. Understand the Acceptance and Rejection Criteria
Not all nominations get approved. Here’s what might cause your nomination to get denied:
- Poor photo quality (e.g., blurry images).
- False or unsafe location.
- Insignificant or uninteresting subject matter.
- Misleading titles or descriptions.
To improve your chances, ensure your submission is clear, accurate, and within Niantic’s guidelines.
Tips for Success
- Make Your Photos Shine: A well-lit, high-resolution image increases your nomination’s likelihood of approval.
- Craft a Strong Description: Your description should explain why this location is unique or important to the community.
- Avoid Errors: Double-check your location marker and details before hitting submit.
The Impact of Pokestops on the Community
Adding Pokestops doesn’t just enhance gameplay for you; it broadens access for others too. A thriving network of Pokestops attracts players, fosters social interaction, and can even boost local business foot traffic.
Closing Thoughts
Creating Pokestops is your chance to shape Pokémon Go’s world and bring life to hidden community landmarks. By following these steps and Niantic’s guidelines, you can successfully contribute to the game and the player experience.
Start scouting your neighborhood today! What landmark will you nominate? Share your stories with us, and for more helpful Pokémon Go tips, check out other guides and resources in our community.
