Pokemon Go developer Niantic launches its own social media platform ‘Campfire’

Brad Norton
Pokemon Go gameplay

Niantic’s very own social media platform ‘Campfire’ is now starting to roll out across the globe as the Pokemon Go studio looks to connect all of its titles under one umbrella.

Months after announcing its plans for an independent social media platform, Niantic is now beginning the gradual rollout of its Campfire application.

Following an early Beta test in recent weeks, the team is now opening the floodgates to players around the world, starting with “select groups of Pokemon Go players throughout the Summer,” a June 30 update revealed.

Those with initial access to the platform will be among the first to explore a range of new social features designed to keep players of all Niantic games engaged.

Niantic Campfire app features
Campfire’s features allow for smoother communication across Niantic’s titles.

Firstly, Campfire serves as a new messaging platform for fans of Pokemon Go and other Niantic properties. Players have been clamoring for such a feature to communicate with distant friends and now, it’s being made possible.

“Our hope is that these features will make it easier for Trainers to communicate with each other, discover new communities, and enjoy local raid battles,” Niantic explained.

Beyond simply messaging, Campfire also features a map incorporating real-time updates. For instance, if a player nearby spots a hot area, your map will alert you in a timely manner so you can keep on top of all the latest.

Furthermore, players can more easily coordinate events of their own, all without having to jump through multiple different social media platforms.

Campfire app
A live Campfire Map will keep players on top of events in their area.

For the time being, it’s unclear how many players will be invited to Campfire through the initial Pokemon Go rollout. Though it’s clear Niantic wants to reach as many groups as possible by the end of Summer.

We’ll be sure to keep you posted here as any further details emerge surrounding the new social media platform.

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About The Author

Brad Norton is the Australian Managing Editor at Dexerto. He graduated from Swinburne University with a Bachelor’s degree in journalism and has been working full-time in the field for the past six years at the likes of Gamurs Group and now Dexerto. He loves all things single-player gaming (with Uncharted a personal favorite) but has a history on the competitive side having previously run Oceanic esports org Mindfreak. You can contact Brad at brad.norton@dexerto.com