Two teens are holding hands in the park. In the other hand, each is holding his/her phone. To some, this may seem like another prime example of putting technology over quality one-on-one time. But if you've been tuning in to the latest craze, you know they aren't ignoring each other to play Angry Birds. They are bonding through the worldwide viral app, Pokémon Go.
Yes, it's possible for two people to get closer together even if their eyes are focused on a screen. Unlike other Pokémon games, players can't just sit indoors and mash buttons to advance through the game. To find Pokémon, battle in gyms, hatch eggs and level up, Pokémon Go requires users to explore various real-life locations in order to become the very best (like no one ever was). Important locations, like Poké Stops, are common in heavily trafficked areas like malls, parks, and local landmarks: ideal date stops. So, assuming both you and your significant other are into the game (obviously an activity you both aren't enthusiastic about is never a good idea), here are ways to make Pokémon Go part of a perfect date!
1. Trying to hatch an egg? Take a long, romantic stroll with your partner.
Hatching a Pokémon from an egg involves walking a distance of two to ten kilometers (Yes, walking - the game won't pick up movement faster than 20 mph, and some outlets report the maximum at 12 or 15 mph). So adjust the screen timeout on your phone, put the game in Battery Saver mode (it's under Settings), slip your phone into your pocket and stroll into the sunset.
2. Challenge each other to a Pokémon - catching contest
Whether you determine the winner by total Pokémon caught or by who caught one with the highest CP points, it's up to you. A little friendly competition is always fun. Unwind after all that running around by having a movie night - winner picks the movie and loser coughs up the cash.
3. A picnic in the park
Parks seem to have an abundance of wild Pokémon and Poké Stops.Take advantage of a lovely summer day and enjoy a nice meal outdoors. The game can wait until after you're done eating. Afterwards, break out your phones and go catch'em all!
4. A shopping spree & Pokémon safari
Whether you're browsing the mall or running errands together, treat yourselves to some new outfits and catch some Pokémon along the way!
5. A photo journal of Poké Stops
Spend a day visiting as many Poké Stops together as you can. At each stop, take a picture of the two of you together. You could even use the app's augmented reality feature to snap photos of any Pokémon you catch there. Take a road trip or travel abroad, and hit some Poké Stops along the way to log your journey. Put all of the photos in a digital or photo album to track and preserve your adventure together!
6. And if the server is down...
As a recently launched viral app, the game servers are notorious for being down or crashing. Fear not, there are still many other ways to have a Poké-packed day! Battle it out on the original handheld games. Relive the nostalgia and watch old episodes from the anime. Netflix has some of the movies available for streaming, and you might be able to find old tapes and DVDs at the library.
Travel across the land with your partner, and help each other become the very best!
