Develop a Location-Based iOS Game with Maps and Core Data

Overview

By the end of this course, learners will be able to configure an iOS project, integrate maps and location services, model game data using Core Data, implement timed gameplay logic, track user progress, and enhance user experience with advanced three-dimensional map interactions. This course provides a hands-on, project-driven approach to building a complete location-based iOS game from the ground up. Learners will gain practical experience working with MapKit and Core Location to display real-time user movement, manage in-game entities, and create interactive map-based gameplay. Through structured modules, the course demonstrates how to design persistent data models, apply safe Swift coding practices, implement capture logic, and maintain accurate game state throughout the application lifecycle. What makes this course unique is its end-to-end system perspective—learners do not just build features in isolation, but understand how UI, location services, data persistence, and gameplay logic work together in a real-world application. By completing this course, learners will strengthen their iOS development skills, improve their understanding of map-driven applications, and gain confidence in building scalable, interactive mobile experiences suitable for portfolios and professional projects.

Syllabus

Building the Pokémon Go Foundation

This module introduces the foundational components required to build a Pokémon Go–style iOS application, focusing on project setup, visual branding, map integration, and real-time user location tracking using iOS frameworks.

Spawning and Managing Pokémon

This module focuses on gameplay mechanics by implementing Pokémon data modeling, timed spawning logic, capture conditions, alert feedback, and safe data cleanup using Core Data and Swift best practices.

Game Completion and Advanced Map Experience

This module completes the application by tracking gameplay progress, synchronizing visual and data states, and enhancing the user experience through advanced three-dimensional map interactions.