Every weekend, something unusual happens at Plaza Uruguaya in Asunción. Groups of individuals wait under the trees with their phones, strolling and animatedly chatting. Some are familiar with each other, while others are strangers, yet they share a mission. They are Go PokéRaids Paraguay, a thriving Pokémon GO group. This mobile game uses GPS to let players catch virtual creatures by exploring real-world locations, a pastime that has evolved into much more.
The capital of Pokémon GO
The plaza is not merely a playground; it has transformed into a community space. Friendships are formed through Pokémon battles and synchronised strategies. Strangers become friends during cooperative raids and parents bond with children while collecting virtual creatures. It is a weekly ritual that creates lasting real-life memories.
Ever Villalba, 30, runs Go PokéRaids Paraguay. He lives in Mariano Roque Alonso but recognised Asunción as the perfect central meeting point. “The park is centrally located for everyone,” he states. “It gives us visibility and brings in visitors from all across the city.” And so Plaza Uruguaya became their home base.
Go PokéRaids is officially the first Paraguayan Pokémon GO community. Niantic, the game’s developer, granted them that status only five months ago. With it came perks: special rewards, gyms, and PokéStops in the game. However, the most profound impact was offline, a sense of belonging and purpose that accompanied it.
A community with a cause
Niantic requires all official communities to engage in at least one social activity each month. For Go PokéRaids Paraguay, this has become its guiding principle. “What started as a mandate became our greater purpose,” Ever explains.
Each month, they organise donations and provide goods for those who are less fortunate. From clothing to food, they support animal shelters, children’s homes, and community foundations.
These initiatives are sustained by the community itself, without financial backing from the game developers. Members contribute materials, money, and time to keep everything running. They produce stickers, organise raffles, and assemble event kits using their own resources.
Ever is not alone in managing this growing group. He is supported by a team of six dedicated administrators. Each of them undertakes specific responsibilities, such as event planning, raffle operations, donation coordination, or communications. Together, they ensure the smooth operation of the group, functioning as an effective grassroots organisation.
When to attend?
They meet every Saturday and Sunday from 2 PM to 5 PM. Wednesday evenings are reserved for midweek raids. All events are listed on Campfire, Niantic’s platform for such communities, which allows players to register, receive updates, and activate their digital rewards. Organisation and clear communication have been key drivers of their success.
On any Saturday or Sunday, between 100 and 180 people gather in the plaza. Some stay for the entire event, while others join briefly for the excitement of a quick raid. Families attend together, bringing children and older relatives. It is an open, relaxed, and welcoming atmosphere where everyone is invited to participate, whether a novice or a veteran player.
In the case of extreme weather, events are moved to the nearby Shopping Mall Excelsior to ensure a safe, dry environment. Other shaded areas in the vicinity are also used for casual gatherings. Each event is carefully planned and adaptable, with a constant focus on the safety and enjoyment of participants.
What is next for the community?
Beyond Asunción, they are assisting other cities in developing their own Pokémon GO communities. Ciudad del Este, Encarnación, and Luque already have applications in progress. Go PokéRaids provides support, advice, and encouragement with the aim of ensuring that every Paraguayan player has a group nearby. No one should have to travel far to be included.
Their vision is simple yet profound: to create a community where everyone can belong. There is no need to memorise every Pokémon name or bring rare resources, only the willingness to connect. “We will welcome you with open arms,” Ever says. It is a promise that resonates through every raid, donation, and smile shared.
A casual activity transformed into a family of friends, and what began as a game evolved into a way of giving back.
For more information, check Go PokéRaids Paraguay on instagram.
