Pokémon Go is a location-based game: it uses GPS to place things on a real-world map, so you play by going to places. Monster Walk is a step-powered RPG: it reads your step count from Apple Health or Health Connect, so every step counts wherever you take it, indoors included, and you never need to share your location.
Side by side
| Monster Walk | Pokémon Go | |
|---|---|---|
| Made by | Talofa Games | Scopely (originally Niantic) |
| How movement counts | Daily step count from Apple Health / Health Connect | GPS location on a real-world map |
| Needs GPS / location | No | Yes |
| Works indoors | Yes | Limited |
| Genre | Walking RPG: clear the fog, save monsters, unlock regions | Augmented-reality catching and collecting game |
| Price | Free, optional in-game purchases | Free, optional in-game purchases |
Who each game suits
Choose Monster Walk if you want your everyday steps to count without planning a route: walking the dog, a treadmill, errands or pacing on calls. It's built around bite-sized challenges and no pressure, and steps you took with the app closed still count.
Choose Pokémon Go if you enjoy exploring new places, visiting landmarks and playing at shared real-world locations with other players.
Many people play both: the step count that powers Monster Walk comes from your phone, so it doesn't compete with other apps.
Further reading
PocketGamer.biz interviewed Talofa about how Monster Walk aims to stand out from Pokémon Go, and Pocket Gamer covered the official launch on iOS and Android.
FAQ
Is Monster Walk like Pokémon Go?
Both are walking games with monsters, but Monster Walk counts your steps from Apple Health or Health Connect instead of using GPS, so it works anywhere, including indoors.
Can I play Monster Walk and Pokémon Go at the same time?
Yes. Monster Walk reads the step count your phone already records, so it works alongside other apps.
Related guides
- Games like Pokémon Go: walking games to try next
- Walking games that work without GPS (and indoors)
- How to stay motivated to walk every day
Talofa Games is a games-for-good company that makes fitness games: Monster Walk, Run Legends and Pulse Match. See key facts and sources.