In recent years, games using AR have been attracting attention.
Many people probably say, "I'm curious about AR games but have never tried them yet."
In addition, more and more companies are thinking about "planning games and promotions that utilize AR."
In this article, we will introduce the mechanisms of AR games and popular titles, as well as covering a wide range of games, from app games to games that can be easily enjoyed on the web.
In addition, we will explain in detail how to use AR technology to promote and business applications.
Contents
Explanation about AR games
What is AR?
AR (Augmented Reality) is a technology that overlays and displays digital information such as video, audio, and 3D objects in the real world. You can experience content that combines real space with virtual information using smartphones, tablets, and AR glasses.
Recently, it has not only been used for entertainment, but also for educational sites, factories, sales and promotion.
▼Related articles:
What is an AR game?
An AR game is a game that combines AR technology that superimposes digital information on the real world with game elements to provide an interactive experience.
You can play by placing virtual objects in the world that users are actually looking at through cameras such as smartphones and tablets.
Typical games include "Pokémon GO" and "Pikmin Bloom."
Differences from VR games
AR is a technology that overlays and displays digital content in the real world. On the other hand, VR (Virtual Reality) is a technology that allows you to enter a virtual space created by computers.
VR games are characterized by making virtual spaces feel like the real world, allowing you to experience an immersive experience that allows you to see the virtual world 360 degrees.
It is common to wear a dedicated head-mounted display, allowing for a realistic visual experience linked to the user's movements.
On the other hand, AR games are attractive because they can be easily played on smartphones and tablets, and the advantage is that they are easy for users who are not familiar with the game to experience it.
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5 recommended popular AR games
Here are five popular AR games around the world.
All are free*So, you can easily play it on your smartphone or tablet, so be sure to give it a try.
*In-app purchases available
Pokémon GO
Pokemon GO, which has become a hot topic worldwide, is an AR game that uses location information that allows you to catch and train Pokemon that appear in the real world and battle them.
You can enjoy collecting items and playing against each other at Pokestops and gyms while exploring landmarks around the world.
The appeal of this site is that it has regular events and raid battles, and is full of content that can be played for a long time.
Pikmin Bloom
This is a soothing AR game where you can grow Pikmin and bloom by walking.
You can also turn your daily walks into a game, and look back at the routes the players have walked and photos taken.
There are also events where you can collaborate with friends to bloom, allowing for gentle interactions.
Peridot
This is a game where you interact with and nurture the mysterious creature "Peridot."
By feeding and playing like a pet, you will be creating a unique peridot.
The production is Niantic, known for "Pokémon GO," and you can enjoy the mysterious experience of unique creatures appearing in the real world.
Ingress Prime
This is a strategic AR game in which players are divided into two camps and engage in battles set in the real world, and is characterized by its highly strategic and sci-fi worldview.
Using GPS, you can occupy and strengthen your bases, and cooperate and compete with players from around the world, and the community is also active.
Dragon Quest Walk
This is an AR game that allows you to explore the world of the popular Japanese RPG, Dragon Quest, in a real city.
Players can walk along and progress through quests, fighting monsters and collecting equipment.
There are a wide variety of local quests and exclusive events, and the charm is that you can enjoy it while enjoying the feeling of traveling.
Latest technology used in AR games
AR games utilize a wide variety of latest technologies to combine the real world with digital technology. These new technologies allow for any expression and increase the immersion of gameplay. Below we will introduce the main technologies used in AR games.
1. SLAM Technology
SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) is a technology that recognizes the surrounding environment (planes, obstacles, depth) in real time through a camera, and places and fixes AR objects in the appropriate position.
In addition to AR games, it is also used in a variety of fields, including autonomous driving, drones, and autonomous mobile robots (AGVs).
2. Image Recognition & Object Tracking
This is a technology that identifies specific markers (such as two-dimensional barcodes) and objects through a camera, and overlaps digital information. AR games allow you to recognize real-world objects and display characters and effects, and provide a gaming experience that works with specific objects.
3. Location information (GPS, compass, acceleration sensor)
This is a technology that senses the position, orientation and movement of a device. By using these in AR games, you can optimize the layout of AR objects, etc. Players can access events and objects in the game, depending on their location and distance traveled, as they travel.
4. WebXR & WebAR Library
WebXR and WebAR Library are tools that provide AR/VR technology that runs on browsers. No need for a dedicated app, you can easily experience AR through your smartphone or PC browser.
Typical WebAR libraries include:
- 8thWall: Provides an Advanced WebAR Experience
- AR.js: Lightweight and open source
With AR games, users can simply access the website and view virtual objects in the real world and enjoy games that utilize location information.
How to use AR games for business
Promotions through AR x gamification
Gamification using AR technology (incorporating game elements into things other than games) allows users to experience it without feeling stressed, making it useful for increasing awareness of products and brands and strengthening customer engagement.
By using WebAR, you can provide an AR experience without developing expensive AR apps. Users can also participate easily as there is no need to do any tedious tasks such as downloading apps or registering.
It also goes well with social media campaigns and in-store promotions, allowing effective measures to be implemented in a short period of time.
Specific examples of AR x gamification
Here are some specific examples of simple games that utilize AR.
For example, in the "AR Fortune Truck," when you hold your smartphone over a two-dimensional barcode or object, random results will be displayed, encouraging you to direct your store and share your social media.
In addition, in the "AR Quiz", if you scan a 2D barcode in stores or at an event, you will receive a quiz, and you can get a bonus by answering all questions correctly.
Furthermore, in "Random Slots", which have a strong game element, when a character's picture is arranged in a slot, a photo AR of that character will be displayed. This is a policy that is perfect for fan marketing using characters and social media marketing.
These can be deployed using WebAR without the need for an app, making them easy to participate and helps in expanding awareness and promotion.
Promotional case studies
Promotions with game elements vary depending on the purpose and content of the project. Here we will introduce some of the actual cases that have been held.
"A AR Exploration Event of the Sea and Forest" where you can play with mysterious creatures
Source: https://promotion.ar-works.jp/20241010-2/
The "Ar Exploration Event of the Sea and Forest" was held at "NoMaps2024" held in September 2024.
When you load the two-dimensional barcode on the poster, mysterious sea and forest creatures will appear in AR, allowing you to enjoy an item search game and commemorative photo shoots.
Many people were able to enjoy participating in this experiential event, which took advantage of the characteristics of AR games and fused the real world with digital content. In addition, the game has been enhanced by adding elements that allow you to receive gifts by collecting items.
This is an example of an event that will also contribute to local revitalization, taking advantage of the interactive enjoyment brought by AR technology.
▼Reference
AR exploration event held! Cooperating with "NoMaps2024" | ARWorks
"Bic Camera's AR Stamp Rally" tours the store like a game
Source: https://promotion.ar-works.jp/20241022-2/
In July 2024, a stamp rally using AR technology was held at Bic Camera Shibuya East Exit store.
You can participate in the Garapon lottery by visiting checkpoints set up at five locations in the store, loading AR markers and collecting stamps. By incorporating game elements, it is a promotional measure that allows visitors to enjoy the interior of the store and experience the products naturally while experiencing them.
By utilizing WebAR technology, it is a highly flexible initiative that allows you to participate easily without the need for an app, and can be applied to other stores and events.
▼Reference
Bic Camera creates an AR stamp rally to promote the store's tour | ARWorks
"PreCure AR Photo Rally" improves game feel and fan engagement
Source: https://promotion.ar-works.jp/20240829-2/
The "PreCure AR Photo Rally" was held at "Yornoyo 2023" held from November 2023 to January 2024.
Different PreCure characters appeared in AR at 20 locations, including Yokohama Station, Osanbashi, and Chinatown, when you hold your smartphone up, allowing you to take photos together. This system, which utilizes location information, is characterized by the fact that you can enjoy digital experiences while exploring real-world locations, just like AR games.
Many visitors enjoyed it as a measure that not only allowed fans to create special memories with their characters, but also contributed to attracting events and promoting tourism in tourist spots.
▼
Technical cooperation to reference Yorunoyo's "PreCure AR Photo Rally" | ARWorks
Our specialized AR production team provides full support
AR Works is supported by a specialized team with a wealth of experience in AR production. Instead of "making what you're requested and then finishing," we handle everything from planning to production to delivery.
We have experience in providing AR-based planning and content to customers in a variety of industries, so we provide tailor-made suggestions to solve your problems and concerns.
You can consult with us from the plan
AR Works can be consulted from the planning stage, so even companies that are using AR for the first time can implement it with confidence. It can be used in a wide range of situations, including event-friendly AR experiences, product promotions, and facility information. Please feel free to contact us with information on planning images, production periods, prices, etc.
Introducing AR Works achievements
You can see the track record of AR Works production below. We introduce a variety of situations, including promotions, events, and attracting attention, so please take a look.
▼List of achievements | AR Works
https://promotion.ar-works.jp/achievement
AR Game Summary
AR games utilize technology that superimposes digital information on the real world, and utilizes the latest technologies such as location information and image recognition. Typical of these include "Pokémon GO" and "Pikmin Bloom", and unlike VR games, it is easy to enjoy in everyday life.
Additionally, AR technology is used in addition to games, and by incorporating gamification techniques, it is possible to improve the experience value of promotions and events. Examples include AR stamp rally and photo rally, as measures that allow you to participate in a fun and fun way, and contribute to attracting customers and raising brand awareness.
If you are thinking of differentiating yourself through promotions, events, or marketing measures, why not try incorporating AR x gamification, which provides an immersive entertainment experience?
Download examples of use
We will introduce materials for those who want to use AR for promotion. We provide tips that you can use right now, such as examples of use and planning ideas. Please feel free to download.
6 AR/XR project ideas
We introduce "planning ideas for AR promotions that can be used right now."
Examples of use of the AR x entertainment industry
We introduce examples of promotions using AR in the entertainment industry and benefits.
![[AR experience available] The dinosaurs start moving on the spot! Examples of use of AR dinosaurs and their introduction points](https://promotion.ar-works.jp/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/icatch.jpeg)
