SHEBOYGAN, Wis. (WHBL) -- Sheboygan residents seem to be embracing their inner trainer and taking on the challenge of catching Pokemon with the new Pokemon GO mobile app.
Dozens of people were out in force yesterday downtown at Fountain Park and out at South Pier taking part in the game that encourages people to get out into public to track down digital creatures in the environment. Seth Stark from Sheboygan North was out playing the game at at South Pier and says he's been enjoying the social aspect of the game. "It's kind of a really neat experience to go out into the community and go places where you wouldn't usually go to catch Pokemon." Players of the game can join teams and take on other people in battles between the creatures they've caught.
Bella Morton was out rollerblading with her three friends, and using the speed to track down some rare Pokemon. She says it does feel a little strange to be outside playing a game like this. "I would say it's embarrassing, but it's not because everyone else is doing it, and it's superfun." She says she's excited to take part because ideas like this are going to be the future of gaming.
There are some risks involved though. Sheboygan police put out a safety reminder yesterday to players of the game. Police sergeant Joel Kuszynski reminds people that they still need to look up from their phone from time to time. "We would like people to know that if they're out playing the game and they're crossing streets and walking down sidewalks to be aware of their surroundings." He says officers have frequently spotted crowds of people at area parks and other historical locations where the game encourages people to visit. "Just be aware that if you're going to be in the parks in the evening times, or the early morning hours, that you pay attention to the signs and make sure that you're not violating the park curfew ordinances." He does remind people that the city's parks have posted open and closed times.