Pokémon GO is changing lives. While many would think that a video game would lead to less socialization, a loss of reality, and a rise in violence this is not the case for this particular game; in fact, quite the opposite can be said.
In the short amount of time that Pokémon GO has been available to play, the app has surpassed several apps both on iPhone and Android, and is bringing more people together than Tinder, Twitter, and Facebook could’ve dreamed of. In addition to bringing thousands upon thousands of people together to catch em’ all, the game is also helping with regards to mental health. Those with depression, anxiety, and autism are the ones benefiting in particular. The game gives trainers motivation to get out of the house exploring for Pokémon and incentives to level up to catch higher rated Pokémon. It leads to great opportunities for socialization—especially for those with autism. Many parents have already come out in support of the game for the changes they’ve seen in their children who recently started playing.
The game is nostalgic for millennials and older adults alike as many of us watched the television show when we were children, played and traded cards, and dressed up as our favorite Pokémon or trainers for Halloween (Particularly determined kids like myself dressed up on normal days, too, so I’m especially ready for that to make a comeback). In addition to the nostalgia factor, this game has become a way for parents to bond with their children, twenties and teens to bond with their younger siblings, and even a way to get to know someone on a date. Yes, you did read that correctly: Pokémon GO is sweeping the nation and sweeping ladies off their feet, so get to it, gents. The game is socializing strangers in a huge way. For instance, in my hometown (shout out to Springfield, MO) where downtown dies on Sunday nights, the streets were buzzing with people—young and old—all in search of Pokémon together. It was the most nerdily beautiful thing I had ever seen (apart from Midnight showings of Harry Potter, but that’s another article for another day.)
Speaking of other fandoms, the game has already inspired several others to make new types of “GO” games. For those like me who grew up wishing that they weren’t a muggle, the likelihood of a “Harry Potter GO” game coming out is high. Other ideas have involved Lord of the Rings, Game of Thrones, and Supernatural. Don’t fret if you don’t see your favorite nerdom listed here, though, I have no doubt more are on their way.
Another positive coming from this game are the opportunities for service. Those playing Pokémon GO can download charity apps, such as Charity Miles or WoofTrax, which donate money based on the number of miles one walks. Many have also taken to helping clean up along the parks they play Pokémon GO in. Others plan to take bottled water or other smaller necessities, like travel-size toothpaste, deodorant, etc. with them to give to the homeless as they search for Pokémon. In a time where hate, selfishness, and even terror are prevalent in our lives let the Pokémon phenomenon be a way to spread positivity. Happy hunting—go catch em’ all!
