The Pokemon Go craze is very much alive in our region, but for those who need some help getting started, we have some tips.

The Niantic mobile game utilizes a phone’s GPS and camera to help players find Pokemon. The game also utilizes AR (augmented reality) to place the Pocket Monsters in the real world.

It’s worth noting that the game hasn’t officially released in Canada, or in much of the world for that matter. Developer Niantic says they delayed the release so they could further work on the servers, which have been unstable. Players have reported being disconnected or being unable to use the app all together.

This hasn’t stopped gamers from figuring out ways to get the game.

Pay attention

The first and probably most important thing to do while playing Pokemon Go is to pay attention to your surroundings. There have been a number of reports of players tripping, falling and even running into poles because they’re distracted.

Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation even Tweeted on Tuesday reminding people to stay alert and to put the phone down if they’re driving.

Because the game uses a phone’s GPS, players should also keep an eye on their data plan and battery life. The game relies on the phone’s data to connect to the server and that means it can eat up your coverage plan pretty fast if you’re not careful.

When Barrie gets together to play Pokemon go pic.twitter.com/8vyipguzQG — Mick (@M_Tramontozzi) July 12, 2016

Walking to Newmarket I stopped for a selfie with a Golbat. Stuff I never thought I'd say #PokemonGo #ChildhoodDream pic.twitter.com/ApHzcjH4e2 — Sam Blood (@Sam_Blood) July 9, 2016

“Pokestops” and landmarks

Pokemon Go encourages people to explore in order to find new monsters, but in order to catch them you need some equipment.

For every level you gain, players are awarded “Pokeballs”. These are used to capture the Pocket Monsters they find. You can also obtain these through in-game purchases or by visiting “Pokestops.”

Pokestops are locations, typically landmarks that are recognized through the games geocaching system, where players can stock up on items.

In Barrie for example, places like parks, the Bayfield Mall, even post offices are marked as Pokestops. Players will get the most bang for their buck by heading to places that hold significance to their city or town.

Barrie’s waterfront is filled with dozens of Pokestops and gyms.

Pokestops won’t just give players more balls. They will gain eggs (which can be hatched by walking so many kilometres), as well as items that help attract Pokemon and provide more experience.

Catch and release

Pokemon Go works a little differently than its handheld predecessor. Instead of battling monsters, the mobile game simplifies the capturing process to just throwing Pokeballs with the swipe of a finger.

Tossing the ball and hitting the Pokemon at just the right time is all it takes. You can increase the chances of capture by pressing down on the ball and waiting until the circle is at its smallest form. If the circle is green, the Pokemon should be pretty easy to catch. If it’s yellow or red it’s a little harder.

Players can level their Pokemon and do battle at gyms. Gamers simply need a set number of candies and dust to evolve their Pokemon or power them up.

Trading in duplicates to the games Professor Willow will result in a return of one candy. Capturing the duplicates themselves results in three.

Looks like #Barrie's waterfront is the place to go if you want to Catch'em All. #PokemonGO pic.twitter.com/paJoadCs3g — Adam Ward (@AdamWardCTV) July 12, 2016

Stick together and beware when playing at night

Matee Moshkovits, a Toronto-based IT and security consultant, offered CTV Toronto a few pieces of advice for players.

Even if you’re going to a meet-up, go with a friend, Moshkovits said people should stick together. Some organized events are not official or regulated.

Moshkovits recommends gamers should not play alone, especially at night. He said, “There are multiple warnings in the game and they’re there for a reason. Be aware of your surroundings.” If approached by security or police, Moshkovits said always explain what you’re doing and cooperate.

The game has also spurred a Pokemon Go Facebook group for Barrie players.

With files from CTV Toronto.