I just can't believe that the people in Niantic are really stupid. They have to be somewhat intelligent to design the most successful app game in history. But they make a completely illogical gym system. Maybe just maybe this was done on purpose to see how people will react to a world flipped upside down. Some may just roll with it and not ask questions, some may stop playing, some may come back to play, some may become angry but keep playing. Perhaps this is a well designed social experiment used by the government or other entities.
Or, Niantic people are just complete retards.
As far as developing the most successful game in app history goes lets keep it real. This is a mega-hit because its got the Pokemon name slapped on it. Ingress, largely the same game, while good and has a loyal player base is no where near what Pokemon is.
There very well could be something more than meets the eye. I like to imagine they tune into the front facing cameras for a little R&D.
Wouldn't be here if it wasn't Pokemon...I think that's the main reason for it's success.
Honestly, like if you get cast for the new Star Wars movie or Harry Potter, it's a guaranteed riches deal...if you win that lottery.
Longer term, does the game have legs? My bet and from reading comments from old time Ingress players, is no...
