Pokemon Go was recently released in the U.S., and all the Pokemon trainers set out to be the very best. The game utilizes augmented reality and geolocation to let people find Pokemon out in the real world by exploring their neighborhoods and exercising and socializing. The game has caused quite the stir, and just like with everything else, there have been some less than desirable incidents. Despite this, I and many other people love the game for a number of reasons.

1. It forces you to go outside! Normally the gaming community is inside, sitting at a desk eating Cheetos and getting paler and paler, but Pokemon Go has actually changed that. For the first time, the gaming community and the Pokemon fandom is tangible. You can step outside and see people playing the game. The government has been trying to get people outside for how long? Michelle Obama's been at it for at least eight years, and then Pokemon Go comes out and suddenly everyone is outside.
2. It’s fun for all ages. Who doesn't want to go Pokemon hunting? It doesn't matter what age you are, I'm sure you'd be thrilled to find a Charizard in your backyard. The game is captivating for both children and adults.
3. Again -- it forces you to go outside and explore! To play the game, you actually have to go outside and explore! You want that Evee? Earn it! You have to go out and hunt it down. Out of Pokeballs? Better make your way to a Pokestop. You know where the Pokestops are? Most of them are in really cool, historical landmark places that you otherwise wouldn't pay attention to. Today I walked all the way across town and actually looked up and saw how beautiful my town is.
4. It's bringing people together! People are working together to take down gyms. People are giving each other tips. People are telling other people where to find cool Pokemon. Honestly, just meeting someone who plays the same game as you is enough to bring you together, so when you meet someone else whose outside chasing virtual creatures, that's an instant friendship!
5. It’s a bright light in our time of darkness. There's so much hate and despair going on in the world right now, so Pokemon Go is a welcome distraction. It's like the Batman of games.