Niantic launches $1m AR game contest
Pokémon Go developer encourages developers to "think outside the box"
Niantic has launched a new competition for developers to see what they can do with the firm's augmented reality technology -- and there's a prize pool of more than $1m on offer.
The Niantic Beyond Reality Developer Contest is open to all developers and requires them to use the studio's Real World Platform to build new mobile games that "push the boundaries" of the tech.
The company wants to see projects that explore three core pillars: exploration, exercise and real-world social interaction.
Applications are now open, with details on how to apply on Niantic's site. Teams must have at least five members, with experience in Unity and Java Server technology.
The deadline for submissions is February 17, 2019, and finalists will get to work for a three-month period on a demo they can show off at Niantic's HQ in San Francisco.
There is also the suggestion that Niantic may assist with bringing these games to market, with mention that finalists will be brought to San Francisco to meet executives and "lay the groundwork for the work to come."
Niantic co-founder and CTO Phil Keslin said: "While our focus is on games, we're encouraging applicants to think outside the box with their submissions. We can't wait to see the creative applications that bridge the gap between gaming and other areas of recreation and entertainment."