'Pokémon GO' proves to be all-consuming: "It's no better than texting and driving"

MILWAUKEE -- The latest video game craze called Pokémon GO has users buried in their phones while exploring the city for virtual characters. But the new game may be hazardous in certain situations -- and it has law enforcement officials across the country issuing warnings.

Pokemon Go

Since its launch on July 6th, Pokémon GO has been pushing players outside.

The point of the game for Apple and Android devices is to capture virtual characters. But game play requires users to be on the move.

"It works off of an actual GPS map on the game. So you have to travel to outside places; places you normally wouldn't go in order to catch Pokémon or do different things," said one player.

Pokémon GO quickly became the most popular game download of the weekend.

Pokemon Go

"I'm trying to be a Pokémon master. I've got to be on 24/7," said Brandyne Pointer.

After only a few days, stories about distracted players began popping up.

"I mean, it's no better than texting and driving or eating and driving. Keep your eyes on the road at all times. But Pokémon GO, when you're walking and biking and at the park..." said Eric Hunsader of Milwaukee.

Pokemon Go

Because the game is so consuming and becoming so popular, pausing for some quick advice is not a bad idea.

Brad Caddock of the Brown Deer Police Department

"Even while walking, there's been reports of people walking into objects," said Brad Caddock of the Brown Deer Police Department. "We haven't experienced it here in Brown Deer. But people being distracted while driving, getting out of their cars and leaving them running , leaving the doors open. It's just not safe to do that."

So as much as players want their heads in the game, it's important to be aware of what is happening in real life.

Another friendly reminder from police... If you're out playing the game and see someone suspicious, call it in. Also, be aware of park curfews.