Ingress Activation Codes are going to send me to the madhouse

I don't think I've ever been more anxious to play a game as I am with Ingress. Part of this could come down to the fact that the game is in closed-beta and operates on an invite-only basis. Knowing that thousands around the world are "geeking" out, improving their health and are part of something I'm not makes me feel as though I'm struggling to prevent a rock from defeating me. Though I may not be living completely under a rock, unless I'm actually involved and playing the game itself I might as well be. You don't understand, I'm pacing up and down the house, thinking of a new, creative way of landing my hands on an activation code, should my artistic skill and efforts see me through.

Source: geek.com

To anyone who isn't aware already, Ingress is as I've mentioned, an exclusive game which immerses players in a world where they fight on behalf of one of two factions, either defending Earth (Resistance) from the arrival of 'Shapers' (an unknown alien species), or aiding them (Enlightened). Factions do so by controlling various portals (such as buildings and monuments). Linking portals obviously increases the power a particular faction holds in an area, and the game is largely Augmented Reality (AR) in presentation. While for the moment Glass still hasn't been released to the mass consumer market, players' reality is altered through an overlay on Google Maps, which details players' surrounds, nearby portals and activity in the area.

There's also an extensive back story and conspiracies invoking conversation amongst agents in their respective factions, and the greater community. Never do I believe has there been an Android game (or game in general) that so expertly integrates story with user participation from a global audience. The lengths to which almost everyone involved in the game have taken on the role as 'Agent' in a serious manner is thrilling to me, and most significantly, Google's Niantic Labs have come up with a way for game addicts such as myself, to actually leave our dingy hovels and get some fresh air.

Source: phonedog

But now we return to the point of this post, being that I'm still inside my dingy hovel. I haven't yet received an activation code I've requested, but rest assured I will try. Though my artistic skills are only as good as my ability to complete a 100 metre dash with ease, they'll get me by with a little persistence. When I wake up and smell the roses with thanks to Google Nose, it is then that I'll get on my knees and beg for assistance from my artistically superior sister.

I've already thought ahead and bought an extended 2000mAh battery from Mugen-Power Batteries (name drop) for my GNex. Of course if I'd really thought ahead, I'd have bought the RAZR MAXX instead of the GNex, but in my usual short-sightedness I failed to consider there might actually be a time in the near future where I would've needed the extra juice.

What are you're thoughts on Ingress if you know of it, or are an agent? Is it as intense and engaging as its made out to be, or are you already tiring of it? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments section!