Pokémon Go saves stranded group after Google maps fails them

Pokémon Go saves stranded group after Google maps fails them

As a seasoned traveler with a knack for finding myself in unexpected situations, I can’t help but be utterly amazed by this tale of Pokémon Go navigation prowess! I’ve been lost in my fair share of forests around the globe, often relying on trusty old maps or modern GPS systems to find my way. But it seems that our dear Helga has stumbled upon a game-changing (pun intended) solution!

A compact band of travelers unexpectedly discovered themselves wandering through a woodland in Spain and were having difficulty navigating their return to urban areas. When they understood that Google Maps wouldn’t provide any assistance, one of them thoughtfully proposed using the Pokémon Go app… and it turned out to be successful!

Pokémon Go helped stranded group find their way back

A tale shared by NRK News became popular on Reddit following an incident where the mobile game Pokémon Go guided a trio out of their way in a woodland, preventing them from getting lost.

Norwegian game researcher Helga Dis Isfold Sigurdardottir, accompanied by her husband and a good friend, found themselves unintentionally wandering off the path in a Spanish forest during their stroll.

Initially, they assumed they could continue exploring aimlessly, but soon discovered that this approach wasn’t particularly beneficial. However, turning to Google Maps for assistance didn’t prove to be very helpful either.

It’s important to note that Google Maps primarily gathers its data from vehicles, which is why you might recognize the iconic Google Maps car. However, this focus on vehicle-collected data means that areas that are more natural or exclusively for pedestrians may not be accurately mapped on Google Maps.

However, one unique aspect of Pokémon Go lies in its transition from Google Maps to OpenStreetMap back in 2017. This change allows the game to showcase a multitude of lesser-known trails and locations that may not be as widely recognized.

OpenStreetMap allows community members to suggest updates and map areas themselves.

In a pinch, when Google Maps couldn’t assist, Helga brilliantly thought of using Pokémon Go as a navigation tool instead. It may have seemed absurd initially, but surprisingly, it guided them safely back home.

It appears that local residents must have surveyed or charted that forest at one point, which ultimately aided the three individuals in navigating their predicament.

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2024-12-18 17:09