Pokémon GO Field Test starts today in the US, more gameplay and mechanics details

After opening sign-ups two weeks ago, the US Field Test of Pokémon GO begins today. The Pokémon Company and Niantic Labs revealed more information about the mechanics of the real world game. Pokémon GO will have in-app purchases and sell a Bluetooth wearable that notifies users of in-game events.

Like many modern games, Pokémon GO will have in-app purchases and an in-game currency called PokéCoins that can be used to get power-ups and purchase new equipment. As with Niantic’s previous game Ingress, PokéStops stores and Gyms are located at interesting locations such as public art installations, historical markers, and monuments.

In addition to finding and catching over a hundred different Pokémon, the other main task of the game is to join one of three teams and battle for control of Gyms. Users will be represented by an in-game Trainer avatar that can be customized.

The game will also sell a Pokémon GO Plus wearable device that can be worn on the wrist and connects via Bluetooth to phones. Using LEDs and vibrations it will notify users of in-game events like nearby Pokémon that can be caught.

Pokémon GO is still in active development and the features and the overall appearance of game is not yet finalized. In addition to the US, Fields Tests are running in Japan, Australia, and New Zealand for Android and iOS users.