Pokémon Go's popularity hinges on its augmented reality gameplay, where real-world locations become in-game PokéStops and Gyms. These points of interest are crucial for collecting items and battling, but how do they get there in the first place? Unfortunately, you can't directly create a PokéStop. Niantic, the game developer, meticulously selects locations based on specific criteria. However, understanding these criteria significantly increases your chances of nominating a location that meets their standards.
This guide will walk you through the process, answer frequently asked questions, and offer insights into increasing the likelihood of a successful nomination.
What are PokéStops?
Before diving into the nomination process, let's clarify what PokéStops are. PokéStops are real-world locations, often points of cultural or historical significance, that appear on the Pokémon Go map as blue cubes with a white photo disc. Players interact with them to collect valuable items like Poké Balls, Potions, Revives, and Berries. Their presence enhances gameplay and encourages exploration of the local area.
Can I Create a PokéStop Myself?
No, you cannot directly create a PokéStop. Niantic, the developer of Pokémon Go, carefully curates the locations of PokéStops and Gyms. Instead of creating them, you can nominate locations through the game's Wayfarer program. This program allows players to suggest new PokéStops and Gyms, which then undergo a review process by the community.
How to Nominate a Location to Become a PokéStop Using Wayfarer
The process involves submitting a nomination through the Wayfarer platform, accessible via the Pokémon Go app. The Wayfarer program is Niantic's system for adding new locations to Pokémon Go and other Niantic games like Ingress. Here's a step-by-step guide:
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Meet the Requirements: Ensure you've reached level 40 in Pokémon Go. This is a critical requirement to unlock Wayfarer access.
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Access Wayfarer: Once you reach level 40, you'll receive an in-game prompt or notification to access the Wayfarer platform.
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Find a Suitable Location: Choose a location that adheres to Niantic's guidelines. Generally, this means places of interest that are publicly accessible, safe, and unique. Think historical markers, statues, murals, or other noteworthy landmarks.
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Submit Your Nomination: Use the Wayfarer app to submit your nomination. You'll need to provide high-quality photographs of the location from multiple angles, a concise description, and ensure the location is accurately pinpointed on the map.
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The Review Process: Once submitted, other Wayfarer players will review your nomination based on pre-defined criteria. Your nomination's success depends on meeting these criteria.
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Approval or Rejection: Niantic will make the final decision based on the community reviews. Approved nominations will eventually appear as PokéStops in Pokémon Go.
What are the Criteria for a Successful PokéStop Nomination?
Niantic emphasizes specific criteria during the review process. These include:
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Public Access: The location must be publicly accessible without trespassing or requiring special permission.
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Safety: The area should be safe and not pose a hazard to players.
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Uniqueness: The location should be unique and noteworthy, avoiding duplicates or mundane locations.
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High-Quality Photos: Clear and well-lit photos are essential to showcase the location accurately.
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Accurate Description: A detailed yet concise description adds value and context.
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Location Accuracy: Pinpointing the location accurately on the map is crucial for a successful nomination.
Why Was My PokéStop Nomination Rejected?
Several reasons can lead to rejection:
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Insufficient Photos: Poor quality or insufficient photos hinder the review process.
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Inaccurate Location: A mislocated pin will likely result in rejection.
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Violation of Guidelines: Nominations failing to meet the criteria (public access, safety, uniqueness) will be rejected.
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Duplication: Submitting a location too close to an existing PokéStop or Gym will usually result in rejection.
Tips for Increasing Your Chances of Success
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Choose High-Quality Photos: Use good lighting and multiple angles to show the location's features.
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Be Thorough and Descriptive: Write a comprehensive description, providing relevant historical or contextual information.
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Ensure Accurate Location: Double-check the location's pin on the map.
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Understand the Guidelines: Familiarize yourself with Niantic's Wayfarer guidelines.
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Be Patient: The review process can take time.
By following these guidelines and diligently selecting locations that meet Niantic's criteria, you significantly increase your chances of successfully nominating a location to become a PokéStop in Pokémon Go. Remember, patience and attention to detail are crucial.
