Game Theory Niantic Spatial: Play & the Real World (John Hanke, Moritz Baier-Lentz, Hemal Thaker)
Jun 18, 2025
John Hanke, Founder and CEO of Niantic Spatial and creator of Pokémon GO, shares insights on the transformative power of outdoor gaming. He discusses how augmented reality helps reconnect people with nature, stirring community engagement. The conversation dives into the future of gaming with wearable tech and AI, exploring its impacts on user experiences. Hanke also highlights the importance of accurate geospatial models for integrating technology into our daily lives and emphasizes the need for a positive, optimistic approach to future innovations.
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Origin of Niantic’s Outdoor Play
- John Hanke was inspired by childhood outdoor play and being a parent concerned about screen time.
- He aimed to blend video game addiction qualities with outdoor exploration, leading to Ingress and Pokémon GO.
Walk to Boost Mental Energy
- Incorporate walking and physical movement into your daily routine to boost energy and mental acuity.
- Physical activity stimulates creativity and sustains mental health even during knowledge work.
Niantic's Name Origin Story
- Niantic's name derives from a buried ship under San Francisco, symbolizing hidden gems in the world.
- This historical connection embodies the company’s vision to reveal unseen layers of the physical world.