There are hobbies, and then there are trends. Both are entertaining and exciting but there is a thin line between a hobby and being an addict of Pokémon GO. Many times, an idea turns viral and soon it is an obsession. But each “Harlem Shake,” “Planking,” and “Dab” fizzles out and we all move on with our lives, waiting for the next fad to strike.
However, there has now been an idea that wraps up everything we as a nation adore: technology, interactivity, and a nostalgic twist such as Pokémon of course. As if collecting cards or whipping out your Nintendo DS wasn’t good enough, now you can bring Pokémon to life in your world.
Don’t get me wrong, I am always down for a 90’s throwback, but until they turn Polly Pocket into a virtual game, I’ll just sit back and watch. But as I do, I cannot help but warn you of the signs you may be addicted to Pokémon GO.
1. You are unaware of the world around you.
Okay, you know how your mom would always nag you if you were texting at the dinner table and not paying enough attention to pass the butter? At least this obliviousness doesn't lead to car crashes, walking off cliffs, or breaking into someone's house.
2. You go out of your way to catch 'em all.
If you need to go to the bank that happens to be a PokéStop to fill up on PokéBalls then go ahead. But if you make a point to go out of your way to the point it takes up time in your day, you may need to take a long good look at yourself. I don't want to see you holding your phone out the door on mainstream or leaving your dinner reservation 3 times to collect more.
3. You've started to lose touch with reality.
11 pm on a Tuesday is the perfect time to be doing anything besides wandering around in a park by the river with Pokémon GO on your iPad two inches from your face. Look up at the stars and please step away from the swingset, sir.
4. You are starting to catch the feels for some virtual player you have linked with.
Haven't you seen Catfish? In a show with people trying to find love via technology, some weird stuff still manages to go down. Imagine this with Pokémon fans. Go ahead and catch 'em all, just don't catch the feels. Or worse.
