Pokemon Go Players Concerned as Town Officials Consider Ban
Popular Spot for Pokemon Go Players Faces Potential Ban
The Crossings Park of Colonie has become a popular spot for Pokemon Go players, with many frequenting the area to catch virtual creatures and participate in raids. However, town officials are considering a ban on the mobile game, citing concerns that it is not a passive park and does not permit organized gaming pursuits.
Confirmation from Town Officials
According to Spencer Moon, the admin of the Colonie Pokemon Go Discord server, town officials have confirmed the rumors of a potential ban. Moon spoke with Tom Breslin, the Parks and Rec coordinator, who confirmed the rumors but did not provide further details on how the town planned to remove Pokemon from the park.
Town’s Response
In response to an inquiry from NEWS10, Town Supervisor Peter Crummey’s office provided a statement regarding the use of the park for organized gaming pursuits. The statement, provided by Breslin, indicated that the town is willing to offer alternative parks for Pokemon Go players, including Mohawk River Park and Schuyler Flatts Park.
Passive Park Definition
The term "passive park" is typically used to describe a public park that does not host organized or competitive events and does not permit non-municipal activities. However, Moon argues that most aspects of the game can be played individually or in small groups, and that the larger crowds are only present during raid events.
Niantic’s Response
When asked how a potential ban would work, Niantic, the developer of the app, stated that administrators of public parks or other authorized personnel may use a form to request hours of operation be added to limit Pokéstop or Gym functionality.
Petition and Community Response
Moon has created a Change.org petition asking the town to not remove the game from The Crossings, which has received over 600 signatures in six days. The petition has sparked a community response, with many Pokemon Go players expressing their concerns and frustration with the potential ban.
Conclusion
The potential ban on Pokemon Go at The Crossings Park has sparked controversy and concern among the gaming community. While town officials cite concerns about the park’s passive nature, many players argue that the game can be played individually or in small groups, and that the larger crowds are only present during raid events. The fate of the game at The Crossings Park remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the community is passionate about preserving their right to play.
FAQs
Q: Why is the town considering a ban on Pokemon Go?
A: The town is considering a ban due to concerns that the park is not a passive park and does not permit organized gaming pursuits.
Q: What is a passive park?
A: A passive park is typically used to describe a public park that does not host organized or competitive events and does not permit non-municipal activities.
Q: Can Pokemon Go be played in small groups?
A: Yes, most aspects of the game can be played individually or in small groups.
Q: What is the current status of the petition?
A: The petition has received over 600 signatures in six days and is ongoing.
Q: What is the town’s response to the petition?
A: The town has not provided a direct response to the petition, but has stated that it is willing to offer alternative parks for Pokemon Go players.
