Microsoft is launching its new Microsoft Mesh mixed reality platform today, and part of the announcement includes a brief demonstration of Pokémon Go running on the HoloLens 2 headset. Niantic has partnered with Microsoft to create this proof-of-concept version of Pokémon Go, demonstrating what might be possible for the game in the future.
Niantic CEO John Hanke demoed what the game could be like on the HoloLens 2 AR headset. But getting to that device wasn’t the only leap the demo was also powered by Microsoft’s Mesh platform, an easy way for developers to create their own collaborative virtual spaces. Instead of just being a solution for remote work meetings, the Pokemon Go demo shows us how Mesh could also reshape how we socialize and play remotely.
The demo was just a proof of concept, not something actually running on HoloLens 2, but it’s a sign of what’s to come. While wearing the headset, Hanke strolled through a park and encountered a wild Pikachu. He opened his palm typically where HoloLens apps place their menus highlighted a strawberry, and fed it. As he walked around, he could see other wild Pokemon strolling about. The demo ended just as he encountered a colleague, who challenged him to battle. Even though this was a rough demonstration, it would have been nice to have a closer look at what an actual fight would look like.
