Google Maps: Pokémon Challenge

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Google Maps: Pokémon Challenge was a brief April Fools prank turned interactive hunt. In 2014 users who opened the Google Maps app on Android or iOS found Pokémon hiding in real world locations. Tapping on pins let you catch creatures scattered across cities and landmarks. The game loop revolved around exploring maps to collect 25 Pokémon from each of the first six generations. Progress unlocked new species with Mew becoming available only after catching all 150 others. The game stood out for its cheeky real-world integration and sheer novelty. It included all starter Pokémon Eevee and its evolutions plus every pseudo legendary and electric mouse. While no official stats exist the surprise appearance of Mew as a final reward became a viral inside joke. Players noted how it felt less like a game and more like a shared digital prank that worked best when you already knew where to look.