The release date for the Android and iPhone versions of "Pokémon GO," the most recent installment in the Pokémon franchise that utilizes real-world maps to allow players to interact with the environment and catch Pokémon in real-time, as reported by HNGN, have been officially confirmed for a 2016 release, according to Youth Health.

"Pokémon GO" is an ambitious title that seeks to integrate reality into the Pokémon world, allowing players to catch, trade and battle other players in real-world areas.

"For the first time, Pokémon will roam free in the real world," said John Hanke, founder of Niantic, the company co-developing the game with The Pokémon Company. "'Pokémon GO' will allow players to capture Pokémon who inhabit parks, shopping areas, sidewalks and the countryside all around the world."

Players can also purchase the Pokémon GO Plus, an additional device that can be clipped or strapped on to players' wrists to let them play without looking at their phones, according to PC Advisor.

Augmented reality (AR) games, such as Pokémon GO, have had a tough time gaining mainstream acceptance and success, according to Tech News World. However, Niantic's previous AR game Ingress attracted a strong following.

"Niantic has been quite successful in attracting a dedicated following for Ingress," said Christine Arrington, senior analyst of games at IHS Technology Arrington. "Now they have a very well-known property, with a huge nostalgia factor, people who are familiar with the AR hide-and-seek games from the 2000s, and years of experience with their own game."

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