Claiming that the popular "Pokemon Go" mobile game makes neighborhoods unsafe, Michigan couple files a class lawsuit and Niantic Labs.
'Pokemon Go' Turns Suburban Neighborhood Into 'Nightmare'
Last week, Scott Dodich and Jayme Gotts-Dodich, a Michigan couple from St. Clair Shores, filed a class action lawsuit against Niantic Labs, the game developer of "Pokemon Go." The lawsuit also goes against Nintendo and the Pokemon Company.
The Michigan couple claims that the popular augmented reality mobile game has turned their once-peaceful suburban neighborhood into "a nightmare." The lawsuit alleges that placing Pokemon Gyms and Pokestops near private property leads to a continuing invasion of homeowners' private lives.
Time reports that the couple from St. Clair Shores requested the removal of a Pokestop and Pokemon Gym at Wahby Park. They claim that "Pokemon Go" players have at times took over their once private cul-de-sac. The mobile game's fans have trespassed on lawns and blocked driveways with vehicles.
The Michigan couple from St. Clair Shores has said that they contacted Niantic to request the removal of the in-game attractions from their neighborhood. However, Niantic Labs has answered with generic responses at the couple's attempts of contact via designated request forms on the company's website.
According to Detroit Free Press, after weeks of complaining about Pokemon players peering into their windows, trampling their landscaping and even cussing at them, the Dodich couple decided to file a class action lawsuit, as a last resort. Among other claims, the couple accuses the developers and owners of "Pokemon Go" that they have made millions of dollars while ruining many people's quality of life.
The "Pokemon Go" Phenomenon
"Pokemon Go" has become very popular since it was launched in July. Up to date, there are an estimated 100 million downloads of the augmented reality mobile game. "Pokemon Go" takes players on adventures exploring real-life locations to capture in-game Pokemon.
Pokemon are caught and trained before battling other users in Pokemon Gyms. These Pokemon Gyms are usually placed in popular locations that are chosen by Niantic Labs, the game's creator.
