Pokémon Go is a free, location-based augmented reality game developed by Niantic for Apple and Android devices. In the game, players use a mobile device's GPS capability to locate, capture, battle and train virtual creatures, called Pokémon, who appear on the screen as if they were in the same real-world location as the player. The game has been promoted as a way for people to improve their fitness, especially those who tend to be sedentary as many electronic game players typically are. It has been shown to increase the number of steps taken in a day. People spend more time outside, sometimes in rugged terrain, in order to capture Pokémon. Sometimes sessions are vigorous enough to qualify as interval training regimes. Others add lunges, dips and push-ups to their games to enhance their fitness. There is also an issue of building community as strangers often gather in one spot, as in the Battleship Cove Carousel location, where they get to know one another. Finally, others have pointed out its mental health benefits. Click here for a two-minute video of some players at the Carousel. For more information about the walking benefits, contact SSTAR Community Prevention Coordinator Eric Andrade Eric Andrade at 508-863-9733.

(Top row) Ray Pinsonneault and James Domonte join others at the Battleship Cove Carousel, which is known as an excellent spot to play the game. (Middle row) Fifteen-year-old Ronald Brodeur and his younger brother, Andrew, walk around the grounds in search of Pokémon while Crystal Ivay plays her game. (Bottom row) Cody Pardee and Jake Rodrigues are glued to their screens before joining Lindsey Carrita and Dawn Trahan for a photo.