Pokéwalker

About

Pokéwalker is a step-tracking peripheral for Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver that turns real-world movement into in-game progress. Players transfer a Pokémon to the device which gains experience for every step taken. Walking also unlocks Watts, a currency used to buy items and influence encounters. The monochrome LCD screen displays a small map and simple menus while infrared connectivity lets you sync with game cards or other players. Catchable Pokémon and rewards shift based on daily step counts making it a hybrid of fitness tracker and Pokémon training tool. This hardware released September 12 2009 bundled with the games in Japan. Its physical design mirrors a Poké Ball with three buttons and a tiny screen. Unlike similar accessories it lets you swap Pokémon freely between the device and main game at any time. The system also grants early access to normally late-game species like Murkrow by using the Pokéwalker’s alternate encounter table. While not essential to the core experience it adds a unique layer for players wanting to blend exercise with Pokémon care.