Even if you don’t play Pokémon, there’s no way you haven’t at least heard heard of the newest Pokémon game: Pokémon GO. This game is the first of all the Pokémon games to allow players to not only use their cell phones instead of a game console, but players, referred to as “trainers” in the game, are required to travel in real time and distance in order to move their avatars and play. Not to mention, trainers are able to catch Pokémon in their own surroundings (for example, in their kitchen, their front yard, or even while they’re at dinner) thanks to the “augmented reality” feature in the app. Players have the option to make in app purchases in order to gain in game currency which can be used be used to buy pokéballs (used to catch Pokémon), lures (devices that can be used at pokéstops that lure more Pokémon to that location, anyone in the range of the pokestop benefits from the lure), and potions (used to restore your Pokémon’s health after battles), however these purchases are not required to play the game. All of the above items can be acquired for free by stopping at pokéstops. pokéstops drop 3-8 items per stop and can be refreshed and looted again every 5 minutes. The pokéstops are different in every city. The stops usually mork local landmarks such as historical buildings, pieces of art (such as statues or murals), or local landmarks. For those of us who grew up playing Pokémon, this game is a dream come true.

There have been a variety of negative memes floating around the internet saying statements such as “When everyone is out playing Pokémon GO, but you’re an adult with responsibilities and a real job.” I for one am an avid videogame player and lover and couldn’t seem to download Pokémon GO fast enough. I’m also a full time student college student who has three jobs, Personally, I’ve seen nothing but positivity stemming from this game. With all of the violence going on not only in this country, but all across the globe, we needed something to bring us all together, and Pokémon GO did just that. All across the nation people are going out and exploring their communities and cities with a virtual map in hand, every local landmark marked, and extra motivation to reach the landmark. There’s been a drastic increase in the number of people being outside, so that they can play the game, resulting in people being more physically active. The effects of physical activity on not only physical wellness but mental health cannot be denied, and thanks to this game, more people are enjoying the benefits of walking and being outdoors more.

There’s also been a variety of local businesses and program that are jumping on this bandwagon. There are some food locations offering free food to players based their levels in the game. Many animal shelters are encouraging players to stop by and ask for a “Pokémon dog” and players can take one of many

dogs along with them journey to “catch ‘em all”. My local library is throwing lures periodically throughout the day to lure not only Pokémon, but other players into the library to cool off and learn about the numerous services the library has to offer. Many programs that could really aid many people end up getting cut because of low attendance. The reason for the low attendance issue is that people just aren’t aware of them. It’s not only businesses that are making a positive difference, other players are encouraging each other to carry around trash bags and collect trash while they’re collecting Pokémon. Some players are encouraging players to carry around canned goods and give them to those in need as they see them. There’s even been pictures of Pokémon players cleaning up graffiti in the local areas while they were out and about.
As I stated earlier, there have been so many divisive issues going on in the country and world today, especially with the attacks in France and the most recent hate crime shootings. I cannot express how refreshing it is to see people from all walks of life, putting their differences aside, and coming together not only to “catch ‘em all”, but also to learn about, explore, and improve their communities all over the world. This game has brought about the much needed unity we have longed for. It isn’t the solution to all of our problems but it is a fantastic start.