Google challenges ‘Pokemon Go’ with ‘Verne’

Move aside “Pokemon Go” fanatics: Gamers can now hike the Himalayas and learn some geography lessons along the way even without stepping out of their rooms – thanks to Google Maps.

Google has created an interactive virtual reality game that uses Google Map’s three-dimensional imagery of the world to allow Android smartphone or tablet users to hike Mt. Everest without flying to Nepal. Players navigate the game as a 500-foot Yeti named “Verne.”

“As Verne, you can run up Mt. Everest in seconds, skate across icy lakes, chase yaks, discover bits of information, ride a jetpack, play traditional Himalayan instruments, and more,” Google said.

The 3D map game is meant to be educational as players get to learn fun facts while they explore. With “Verne,” geography lessons can be more fun and interactive for kids.

“Verne: The Himalayas” was created using Unity Game Engine, a tool for building 3D games. However, the game is only available for download via Google Play. There is no information yet when “Verne” can be played on iOS devices.

“Android phones and tablets deliver high performance graphics, rendering 3D mountains in realtime all around you as you explore,” Google pointed out.

Meanwhile, the “Pokemon Go” craze continues. However, Google searches for the Olympic games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, now outpace those for Pikachu, the most popular of the Pokemon monsters.

WATCH: Verne the Yeti roams the Himalayas using Google Maps