Analyzing the Virtual Terrain: Pokemon Go and Military Planning

squirtle in the wild
where-are-the-pokemon-go-gyms-in-your-neighbourhood-find-out-with-this-handy-map-1051083

There’s not much to say here other than what I think many in the military are already thinking: what are the implications for military operations in dropping a virtual layer of terrain over the world?

If you’re unaware, Pokemon Go is a mobile game that uses GPS and terrain data to generate virtual locations through a smartphone. Basically, a historic monument, mural, or local bar might have an additional existence in a virtual dimension. A space in the “real” world of limited significance (a painted fire hydrant, for example) might be very important when viewed through he augmented reality of a smartphone app.

It feels like we’re on the cusp of a complete reimagining of how we look at at terrain, from a military viewpoint.


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