Pokémon GO is the latest and greatest craze that has spanned across all age groups. The augmented reality game was released on July 6, 2016 and has an estimated 15 million downloads in the United States alone. The game has generated so much popularity it's all anyone seems to be talking about these days.
I went to a party this past weekend and the only thing anyone cared about was catching Pokémon or talking about how frustrated they were over the fact the host's house was a dead zone in regard to catching Pokémon. People left the party to walk around the neighborhood as an attempt to build their Pokémon collection.
Indeed, Pokémon GO is a great way to bond with others as well as nostalgic of the old Pokémon games, but it certainly has some issues. Here are some pros and cons behind the game:
Pro: You're guaranteed to meet new people
Doesn't matter where you go. If you're out in the world catching Pokémon chances are there's at least one—more like ten—other trainer(s) standing around you. The addiction behind the game is a great way to connect with others. Some people have even met potential partners while catching Pokémon.
Con: Not everyone you come across is trustworthy
Dangerous people are using the app in order to rob or even kidnap people. People are so distracted while playing the game they're not as conscious of their surroundings. Players can drop a lure—an item used in the game to lure Pokémon over to a specific Poké Stop—and ultimately lure potential victims over to them. Remember to stay safe and think smart especially if you're out late adventuring.
Pro: You'll get exercise
If you hated walking before then you still will (especially if you live somewhere hot). However, now you have a purpose to go on long walks and it's not because you're suddenly health conscious. Don't assume finding all 150 Pokémon won't be a challenge because it undoubtedly will be. If you're in a car then it will be a little easier—and less exhausting—coming across Pokémon, but ultimately if you're walking around then you have to really search for them.
Con: Your phone's battery life drains quickly
The game's frequent use of your camera and GPS will eat away at your battery. Not to mention the amount of times you'll switch in and out of the game due to its consistent glitches.
Pro: Motivation to venture out
The cool thing about Pokémon GO is that it forces you to travel to different places to find certain types of Pokémon. For example, you're more likely to catch an abundance of water Pokémon by the beach than in the San Fernando Valley. You'll probably discover all kinds of new places on your journey.
Con: Temptation to sneak into places you're not supposed to
Say what you will, but you know if you there's a Mew or some other rare Pokémon hiding out in a forbidden area you'll be tempted to go searching around. My roommate went to Balboa Park when suddenly, he realized the golf course had a Dragonite laying around. Two crew members asked him to leave, but it wasn't until someone called him out over the PA system that he threw in the towel.
Con: Constant glitches
Clearly the app's creators weren't expecting millions of downloads so fast because the servers aren't nearly big enough to support the amount of game play that has ensued. If the servers aren't down you'll find that the game freezes, a lot. Hopefully with the app's new update these problems will be resolved.
Con: Extremely addictive
Do you find yourself thinking this game is ruining your life? Same here. Don't get me wrong, it's a fun game filled with nostalgia. I just hate the constant urge of pulling out my phone, not to check my messages, but to check and see if there's any Pokémon lingering around that I haven't caught.
Con: Pokémon GO-ing and driving
Players are so addicted they'll drive around trying to catch Pokémon and utilize Poké Stops. As if texting and driving and drunk driving isn't already an issue, now we have to fear for the lives of innocents due to this fad. DON'T Pokémon GO and drive. Just don't.
