Unpopular opinion: I am just not on board with the Pokémon Go! fad. However, that doesn't mean I despise the app as a whole. I feel that several non-users of the game have a passionate hatred for it, and that is something that really gets to me. In this world full of negativity, Pokémon has brought people together in a time where people aren't often open to interaction with strangers. That being said, there are still a few kinks for users and non-users to work out in this rapidly spreading situation.
1. Crime.
I'd first like to address the unfortunate robberies and attacks that have been planned according to specific locations of interest for the game. These situations are horrible and it is beyond me why someone would want to turn a good thing into something feared and potentially dangerous. These incidences; however, should not be held against the Pokémon industry or its users, as there are few things the creators can do about criminals.
2. Lack of Attention to Surroundings.
An element of the conversation that can definitely be used against the game's users is irresponsibility in allowing play to become a distraction. There is absolutely no reason for getting hit by vehicles, hitting people or other vehicles with your vehicle, or literally walking off of a pier into water simply because you were trying to catch Pokémon (I may not play the game, but I have a guilty pleasure of watching the shenanigans be documented on the Internet). Additionally, I do not need to wait behind you when the light turns green because you have to restock your pokéballs.
3. Don't Drive and Pokémon Go!
Please. Just. Don't. Do. It. We have all seen studies proving that texting and driving is a severe danger comparable to drinking and driving. This applies just as much, if not more so, to using the app and driving. While the app is a map of where you currently are, it will not tell you that you are about to cause a three car pile up if you do not pay attention to what is happening on the road.
4. Pokémon in Disrespectful Places.
Reporters have brought to conversation the issue of Pokémon being located in places such as churches, memorials and concentration camps, an issue that both app creators and game users need to work out ASAP. These places are not meant for games, and it is disrespectful to those affiliated with them for gamers to go traipsing around catching Pokémon, creating a mockery of the location. The fact that there are spots in such locations in the first place isn't necessarily a problem, as creators probably weren't taking the existence of these locations into consideration and can most likely fix the issue with future app updates.
As the game is a new and exciting adventure, it will take some time for users to work out these kinks and regain some attentiveness. While it is frustrating for outside parties, it is important to let users enjoy small things that make them happy and distract them temporarily from their responsibilities and stresses. Everyone has vices and this particular one just so happens to be a rapidly growing popular choice in the world right now.
