MP3, Links, and More: http://ymb.tc/e131
This is episode 131 of You, Me, and BTC – your liberty and Bitcoin podcast!
As you probably know, Pokemon GO is taking the world by storm. It’s only been available for a few weeks and by some counts, it’s already nearly as popular as Twitter. Today’s show i...
## YMB Podcast E131: Pokemon GO Big or Go Home - Summary
1. Narrative Summary:
The "You, Me, and BTC" podcast returned after a week to discuss a surprising topic: Pokemon GO. Following the recent Bitcoin halving (which generated minimal excitement and a small online celebration), the hosts shifted gears to explore the cultural phenomenon of Pokemon GO. They initially explained the game's mechanics and its unique use of real-world location, highlighting its massive popularity and the unusual behaviors it inspires in players. The conversation then delved into the game's broader implications, drawing parallels to Bitcoin and the concept of liberty, referencing an article by Jeffrey Tucker. The hosts explored how technology, particularly augmented reality, can achieve significant results quickly, often surpassing government initiatives, and emphasized the importance of good design in driving a game's success. They also considered the potential for future AR games and the possibility of trading and monetization within the Pokemon GO ecosystem, connecting it back to their Bitcoin interests and even referencing recent anti-money laundering training. Ultimately, the podcast framed Pokemon GO as a potential "killer app" for AR, similar to Bitcoin’s role as the first major application of blockchain technology, anticipating a long lifespan and frequent updates.
2. Main Topics Discussed:
- Bitcoin Halving: Recent occurrence and lack of significant price impact due to predictable nature.
- Pokemon GO Introduction & Gameplay: Explanation of the game's mechanics, location-based features, and cultural impact.
- Connection to Liberty: Discussion of an article by Jeffrey Tucker linking Pokemon GO to freedom and individual motivation.
- Technology & AR: Pokemon GO as a potential "killer app" for augmented reality, and the power of technology to achieve rapid results.
- Design & User Experience: The importance of good design in game popularity, comparing it to the success of 2048.
- Copycat Effect & Competition: Anticipation of new AR games and a desire for competition in the space.
- Trading & Monetization: Potential for trading Pokemon and earning money within the game.
- Blockchain Parallel: Comparing Pokemon GO’s potential longevity to Bitcoin’s role as the first "killer app" for blockchain.
- User Base & Segmentation: Discussion of a large user base and potential segmentation as new games emerge.
3. Key Quotes:
- Daniel: "I am all for [people] getting 15 of your friends and go to a restaurant and have drinks because of the happening." (Referring to celebrating the Bitcoin halving)
- "Pokemon Go has done more for childhood obesity in the last 24 hours than Michelle Obama has done in the past eight years." (Referring to the game's impact on getting kids active)
- "It's a shift...it's like a thing now." (Describing the cultural impact of Pokemon GO)
4. People Mentioned:
- Daniel Brown: Host
- John Stewart: Host
- Tim: Present during the recording
- Thomas: From World Crypto Network and Purse.io
- Jeffrey Tucker: Author of an article connecting Pokemon GO to liberty
- Michelle Obama: Referenced in a quote about childhood obesity
- Zack: Previously expressed concerns about Bitcoin’s price
- Cyril Blanc: Tweeted about potential copycat AR games
5. Bitcoin Price Mentioned:
- Briefly mentioned as dipping to around $650-$660.