Pokémon GO is a popular augmented reality game that encourages players to explore their surroundings and interact with real-world locations. One of the key features of the game is PokéStops, which provide items and rewards to players as they visit them. If you notice a location that would make a great PokéStop, you can submit a nomination to help expand the game and make it more engaging for the community. Knowing how to nominate a PokéStop properly ensures that your submission has the best chance of being approved and contributes positively to the player experience.
What is a PokéStop?
A PokéStop is a real-world location in Pokémon GO where players can collect items such as Poké Balls, potions, and other rewards. These locations are usually based on cultural landmarks, public art, historical markers, or places that hold social significance. Good PokéStops are accessible, safe, and offer a point of interest that encourages players to explore their community. By nominating new PokéStops, players can help improve the game map and increase opportunities for everyone to engage with Pokémon GO.
Eligibility Criteria for PokéStop Nominations
Before nominating a location, it is important to understand the criteria that Niantic uses to evaluate submissions. Not all locations qualify, and certain guidelines must be followed
- The location must be publicly accessible and safe for players to visit.
- It should be a place of cultural, educational, or social significance, such as public art, community centers, libraries, or historical markers.
- Private residences, restricted areas, or locations that could pose safety risks are not eligible.
- The location should have a physical landmark or sign to clearly identify it as a point of interest.
Following these guidelines ensures that your nomination is more likely to be accepted and benefits the local player community.
How to Nominate a PokéStop
Nomination of a PokéStop is done directly through the Pokémon GO app. The process is straightforward, but it is important to provide accurate and complete information to increase the chances of approval. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to nominate a PokéStop
Step 1 Open the Pokémon GO App
First, make sure you have the latest version of Pokémon GO installed on your device. You will also need to reach a certain player level to be eligible to submit nominations. Generally, players need to be at least level 38 to submit new PokéStop nominations. Check your profile to confirm your eligibility before starting the submission process.
Step 2 Access the Nomination Feature
Once eligible, open your in-game menu and select the Settings option. Scroll down until you find the option for PokéStop nominations or Wayspots submission. This will redirect you to the submission interface, which may use Niantic’s Wayfarer platform for reviewing nominations.
Step 3 Select the Location
Use your device’s GPS to mark the location of the proposed PokéStop. Accuracy is important, as reviewers need to know the exact spot where players will visit. Take note of landmarks or identifying features that make the location unique and safe. Ensuring precise location data improves the likelihood that your submission will be approved.
Step 4 Provide a Title and Description
Give the PokéStop a clear and descriptive title that reflects its significance. Add a detailed description explaining why the location is important, interesting, or valuable to the community. Highlight any historical, cultural, or social significance, and explain how it can enhance gameplay. A well-written description helps reviewers understand the value of your nomination.
Step 5 Take Photographs
Photographs are an essential part of your submission. Include clear images of the location and any plaques, artwork, or markers that make it noteworthy. Make sure the photos are well-lit and focused, showing that the location exists and is accessible. Avoid including people in the photos for privacy reasons. High-quality images help reviewers make an informed decision about your nomination.
Step 6 Add Supporting Information
If applicable, include additional information such as the hours of operation, accessibility details, and any nearby public facilities. This helps ensure that the PokéStop is practical for players to visit. You can also mention if the location has been part of local tours or community events, which emphasizes its public significance.
Tips for Successful PokéStop Nominations
To improve the chances of your nomination being approved, keep the following tips in mind
- Choose locations that are already publicly accessible and safe for players of all ages.
- Focus on landmarks, historical sites, public art, and educational locations rather than private or residential areas.
- Write detailed and accurate titles and descriptions that clearly communicate the value of the location.
- Submit high-quality, clear photographs that show the location and its identifying features.
- Respect community guidelines and ensure that the nomination does not encourage unsafe behavior.
Review Process and Timeframe
After submitting a nomination, it goes through Niantic’s review system, often called Wayfarer, where experienced players evaluate the submission based on eligibility criteria. Reviews may take several weeks or even months, depending on the volume of submissions. Approved nominations result in a new PokéStop appearing on the map, benefiting the local player community. Rejected submissions often provide feedback, so you can learn and improve future nominations.
Benefits of Nominating a PokéStop
Submitting a PokéStop nomination provides several benefits for both you and the Pokémon GO community
- Enhances the gaming experience by adding new points of interest for players to explore.
- Encourages exploration of local history, culture, and art, promoting community engagement.
- Improves accessibility to items and rewards for players in areas with few existing PokéStops.
- Allows players to contribute to the growth of the game and shape the in-game environment.
- Fosters connections between players and local landmarks, creating opportunities for social interaction and community building.
Nominating a PokéStop in Pokémon GO is a rewarding way to contribute to the game and your local community. By following the proper steps, including verifying eligibility, providing accurate location information, writing a compelling description, and submitting high-quality photos, your nomination can help expand the game and enhance the experience for all players. Remember to choose safe, publicly accessible locations that have cultural, historical, or social significance. Understanding the review process and the criteria used by Niantic helps ensure that your submission meets the necessary standards. Overall, nominating a PokéStop allows you to play an active role in shaping the Pokémon GO world, encourages exploration, and promotes interaction with your community.