Easily known for being the game of its time, Pokémon Go is famous for not only allowing players to live their dreams as real life trainers, but for its beneficial effects on the players themselves. But is this game really as beneficial as it is portrayed?
One aspect that is true about the game is that it pushes players out of their homes if they wish to capture Pokémon and it has made a positive impact on some players' mental health.
People have taken to Twitter to rave about how the game has helped them in multiple ways. Some players said that because the games makes them venture outside of the house it has helped them overcome their depression and/or anxiety. As for myself, I have seen an incredible increase in social interaction between strangers in large gatherings in schools and parks. Whether it's talking about the Pokémon they have collected, or a friendly rivalry between teams, more and more people are getting to know each other. The game itself has made it simpler to strike up a conversation with someone new by providing people with a common interest.
Not only can you catch Pokémon, you can also hatch them from eggs you collect at Pokéstops. To be able to hatch these eggs, the game makes you work for it, giving you a goal of walking 2km, 5km or 10km. This has gotten many people to exercise for the game, and the majority of players are more than willingly to do it! They made exercising fun!
All of this is great and all, but not everyone has really reached the full potential that the game can offer. For example, instead of interacting with others playing the same game or just enjoying the view while taking a stroll around the block, some people stay locked on the screen in front of them. This can be dangerous, making players unaware of their surroundings. Several injuries and accidents have already occurred because players are paying too much attention to the game; some of these injuries have been running into walls or trees, scrapes from falling, car crashes, and most recently two men who fell off a cliff.
In addition to injuries, even more dangerous situations have started to take place. Police officers in multiple areas have had to issue warning to players about theives stealing phones around popular Pokémon areas at night. Not only that, many people fear the high possibility of kidnapping due to wandering teens and kids at night.
What many players need to watch out for is their own obsession with the game. The Pokémon craze has dulled some player's common sense in their fight to capture a rare Pokémon. Some players now hunt and drive, walk into police stations to catch a Pokémon. A group of players even blocked traffic on an interstate highway to capture a Mewtwo.
All in all, the game is fantastic and has had a positive impact for the most part. Just keep in mind, it is JUST A GAME. It is not worth to risk your life or anyone else's just to get a Pokémon. Please be cautious of your surroundings, especially at night if you decide to stay out hunting, and try hunting in pairs or groups for safety. Not only does it make it easier to find new Pokémons it can also be more fun. Have fun, be safe, and catch em all!
