It has been just over a week since Pokémon Go was released and took the world by storm. The incredibly popular app allows users to embark on their own Pokémon adventure. The app uses the player’s location and allows them to go out and search for various Pokémon, capture them, raise them, collect items, and battle other players for status in the virtual world. It’s the closest thing lovers of the classic game have to life in the world of Pokémon. Stories of negative responses and even crime related incidents have caused some backlash to the game, though. Does this now mean that the app is simply too dangerous for the world?
In Missouri, four young men are being charged with armed robbery after using the game to lure victims to their location where they then carried out the crime. Pokestops are locations where players can receive free items and are already hot spots that are sure to draw plenty of players. Adding modules that attract rare Pokémon to the stops make the location that much more desirable, and that is just what these four men did.
Along with various stories such as this comes reports of injuries while exploring and even driving, causing police to advise players and offer safety tips within their communities. Backlash is a given with events such as these in such a short amount of time, but it’s important to note the positive impacts that the game has had around the world.
Getting outside is something that has been highly advocated as electronic entertainment has taken a strong hold on the younger generations. For years, the government has been trying to get kids outside, and Pokémon Go has done it overnight. Some Pokémon can be found around the house if the player lives in an urban area––but, the only way to really excel at the game is to go outside and search. Most of the time, this means going out with friends as well. Players go out together, spend time outside, socialize, exercise and most importantly, have fun!
It's a perfect basis to make new friends, as well. The game creates a common interest- something to talk about. For many people that are uncomfortable talking to strangers, the game creates a conversation piece that they have the expertise to be confident discussing. With all the different aspects of the game and various tips and tricks, there is never a lack of items to discuss. The creators have announced that the newest update will contain a feature for trading Pokémon, just another part of the game that will advocate socializing with other players and not just your companions.
Pokémon Go has also been praised for improving players’ mental health. For those suffering from depression and other mental illnesses, just leaving the house can be a struggle. Hundreds of players have showered the game with good thoughts for driving them to do just that. Spending time outside in the sunlight is medically beneficial for mental health, so in more ways than one Pokémon Go is advocating better mental health on top of bettering physical health.
Not many good things are without flaws and people taking advantage of them, and Pokémon Go is no exception to this trend. While sifting through negativity, it is important to note not only this but the benefits that the app is offering. Overnight, Pokémon Go has offered a way of bringing people together and getting a moderately sedentary society off their feet and outdoors. For a virtual reality, that’s quite the achievement, I would say. Now, be smart and careful in your travels and have fun, trainers!
