Augmented reality (AR) allows users to experience a narrative that incorporates both the real world and virtual elements. Layar is an AR platform that allows users to access extra information and digital experiences when they visit physical locations. Pokemon Go is another example of a location-based narrative AR game, as it incorporates virtual Pokemon characters that players can find in real world locations. Both Layar and Pokemon Go demonstrate how AR can change people's relationships with physical spaces by augmenting them with virtual narratives.

1. Location
Based
Narrative
By
Lauren G. and Urmi C.

2. Overview
● Augmented Reality (AR) and how it is a form of Location Based Narrative
● Layar-ed
● Pokemon Go

3. What is Location Based
Narrative?
“Audience members receive narrative elements
as they physically navigate through a
geographical story space”- Valentina Nisi
➔ Narrative
A story that is told or written (Merriam-
Webster)
➔ Physically Navigate
Move through the world we live in
➔ Story Space
Socially constructed reality (setting of a
book, facebook timelines, etc)

4. What is Augmented Reality?
“Technology that mixes the real environment
with the virtual, is registered in 3D, real time,
and interactive”- Liao

5. LAYAR
What Is It?
“Layar is a global leader in
Augmented Reality and Interactive
Print, helping to bridge the gap
between the print and digital worlds.
The Layar app has been downloaded
over 46 million times. Brands are
provided access to an expanding
audience of tech-savvy consumers
eager to unlock the physical world
with a digital experience.” - Layar Website

6. LAYAR-ED PLACES
“All the informants who created layers reported
that their practices of augmentation and the
potential for augmentation changed their
relationship with places around them”
Technology today allows us to communicate with
our surroundings in a mediated space, by
controlling our experiences and practices. An
application like Layar allows us to have a little
power over this form of technology in any place.
Thus, creating a unique relationship between a
user and a location, in this case.

7. LAYAR-ED PLACES
Examples:
● Memorials
● Information
● Art
● Private communication

8. Pokemon Go

9. Pokemon Go
And Location Based Narrative
Pokemon Go brings the world of
Pokemon into the “real” world
Profiting from the game
Pokeconomy article:
● Use game hotspots to increase
foot traffic to local businesses
Pokemon Trainer article:
● Pokemon Chauffeurs
● Pay someone to play for you
The company profits through in app
purchases as players train their
pokemon.

10. QUESTIONS
1. Can you think of any other AR platforms?
2. What do you think the future of AR looks like?
3. How will it affect our perception of the world?
4. Have you had an experience in which a technology affected your
relationship with something in the physical world?