It’s safe to say that Nintendo has done it again with the release of its latest invention, Pokemon Go! This is truly the game that 90’s kids everywhere have been waiting for. Plus, this smartphone application encourages users to get up and go! Here are just a few reason why I think that everyone, childhood Pokemon fan or not, should get this app.
1.. It Promotes Physical Activity
Pokemon Go isn’t just another, run of the mill gaming application -- not at all. Instead of sitting on the couch playing with your phone for hours, there is no way to play this particular game unless you get up and move. Personally, I downloaded the app about 24 hours after it had already been out and I have put about eight or so hours into it so far. Within that time, I have walked nearly seven miles! Perhaps the best feature about Pokemon Go is that it uses real locations in whatever town you are in. In essence, you need to physically move to these locations to get rewards, beneficial items, and even more pokeballs! There are even certain items you can only unlock if you walk a certain distance. Lastly, much of the distance that you travel by car does not count, as Pokemon Go can tell whether you are walking or not based on the speed you are going. There is no way to achieve much of anything in this game unless you walk (biking, scootering, or rollerblading works too).
Walk to move your avatar.
2. Everything Happens In Real Time
Not only are users encouraged to move from locations physically, but everything within the game happens in real time! The most amusing thing about this game is the fact that everywhere you go, just about everyone around you is playing. Every time I go somewhere, I can tell that most of the people I pass on the streets are playing the game with me, which brings me to my next reason for downloading Pokemon Go.
Real time, real locations.
3. It Encourages Community
Because of Nintendo’s new app, I can safely say that I have talked to more strangers in the past 24 hours than I have in my entire life. Along with that, I have run into people I have not seen in years because of Pokemon Go (also one of the effects from living in a small town). In addition, I saw literally groups of people walking around downtown, discussing what pokemon they caught, what team they are on (I’m team Valor), and where the best pokestops to visit are. Who would have thought that looking at a screen, playing a game could bring strangers and old friends together in real life?
Choose from one of three teams (Instinct, Mystic, or Valor).
In conclusion, these are just a few reasons why you need to download Pokemon Go onto your smartphone now. This game is nostalgia, a way to get physically active, and a videogame all in one! So download Pokemon Go today to get moving and get acquainted; you will not regret it!
