BERLIN: The makers of Pokémon Go are launching their own, “real-world” social network for the app’s users.

       The new “Campfire” network will enable players to view other players on a map, and organise real-life meetups, Niantic, the company behind Pokémon Go, has announced.

       With the success of Pokémon Go, Niantic succeeded in establishing a new type of computer game that combines digital content and real environments.

       Launched in 2016, the app unleashed a massive hype after its release, sending millions around the world into streets to look for virtual animals that could be seen only on their phones using augmented reality.

       The initial hype around Pokémon Go has since noticeably died down, but there is still a core group of active players. Some of them spend money in the app and thus continue to provide Niantic with solid revenues. – dpa