Surging ‘Pokemon GO’ gets C.O. gamers to play outdoors

It’s the newest craze among gamers: “Pokemon GO.”

The hot mobile app has many online game lovers exploring Central Oregon to catch those rare virtual creatures.

It’s not just a walk in the park for Corey Crofoot and his friends. With smartphone in hand, they’re trying to catch Pokemon.

Crofoot said didn’t think the game would take off so quickly across the world, just days after its debut.

Millions of people have downloaded the free smart phone app since it launched last week.

“Pokemon GO” uses real-world locations and your phone’s camera.

As you walk around the area, the game follows along on a Google-style map, and little Pokemon characters pop up that you can catch while playing the game.

For Crofoot, it’s a great way of getting fresh air while catching some Pikachus.

“I’ve done a lot of walking, more than I had all year long,” he said. “Usually, I’m in my room playing my computer games — and since Pokemon launched, I’m outside constantly.”

But experts warn criminals are using this virtual reality game to lure victims to secluded locations.

People also are being distracted with bright cellphone screens at night.

The trainers have been sharing their Pokemon photos all over social media, including inside their cars, while failing to pay attention to the road.

Deschutes County Sheriff Shane Nelson said he just recently heard about the game and played the mobile app with his son earlier this week.

He said there are some benefits of playing the game, such as exercise — but also some dangers — for example, drivers looking for Pokemon while driving.

“Cellphone and electronic device use while driving has always been a concern for our office and law enforcement in general,” Nelson said. “We want you to focus on the road when you’re out driving. That is your No. 1 priority.”

Bend police and the sheriff’s office said they’re aware of the Pokemon game, but no crimes have been reported.

According to Similarweb, people are spending more time on the new game than taking selfies on Snapchat.