If you've been listening to the news, or scrolling through social media, you have probably heard about Pokemon Go. A hit game sensation that is either loved or hated....is there an in-between? Anyway, as I scroll through my Facebook feed I tend to see either really positive opinions related to the game, or negative viewpoints. People tend to post about how players of Pokemon Go are immature or even stupid. Players are told to get a life or get a job. My question is where did this idea of idiocy and laziness come from? Why are we putting other people down for having fun? Maybe it's because we haven't evaluated the positives about Pokemon Go. So if you are one of the people who are only viewing Pokemon Go as a game for so called "stupid" people, here are some positives that might change your mind.
1. Pokemon Go is a dream for kids who grew up in the 90's.
Let me tell you that we have really advanced in technology. I remember playing Pokemon with a Game Boy, you were just a pixelated character on a small screen. If I wasn't playing on the Game Boy, I was watching the popular anime series or collecting cards. I never would have imagined that Pokemon could end up on the sidewalk or in my living room. As I see the two words colliding, I am simply amazed. This connection is special for Pokemon lovers such as myself. We are seeing how much has changed in such a short amount of time. This connection that we have is special and we share it with millions of people around the world! This is not just a game, it's a connection. I know that my readers might not have grown up with Pokemon and that is okay! As players we are more than excited to expose new players to the game!
Side note: Let's not forget that Pokemon has taught us the value of following your dreams and never giving up. This value can follow with us for years to come. Playing Pokemon Go can help us learn how to keep going. We are given goals (catching Pokemon) and we have a desire to finish them! Imagine how these skills can be used in the workplace? (This doesn't sound stupid to me).
2. Age is but a number.
Pokemon Go is spreading exposure! As players we are able to spread positive messages to people around the world. People are sharing their personal stories and how Pokemon Go has helped them. I have viewed many articles that talk about how Pokemon Go has helped individuals with their social anxiety. Is this connection not a powerful one? This game is made for people to learn about Pokemon and to explore places that they might never have before. We do not judge (as players) based on if you are new to the game or not. We want everyone to have the fair opportunity to enjoy the game. So regardless of what generation you were born in (that could be a Pokemon pun) you can join in. Maybe with some exposure you can see what everyone is talking about.
3. It brings people together.
Pokemon Go is about sharing one's love for Pokemon. (That's it, I am putting that in the dictionary!) Players from around the world share one purpose, and that is to catch them all. Players want be the very best that none ever was... (I am getting ahead of myself). Regardless of who you are, the game creates challenges for players and allows them to create goals for themselves. People are able to join teams and compete. These battles promote positive competitive experiences! So like I've mentioned before, think about the connection!
4. It gets people to exercise
Pokemon Go encourages people to exercise. Pokemon Go players must walk so far to achieve goals such as hatching eggs. If Pokemon Go is getting kids and adults active again, what is the harm? Sure, people say that players should have been active before Pokemon Go. However this was not reality. (Note I am not saying all people). Pokemon Go is getting people excited about walking. This very achievement is impressive to me!
5. Pokemon Go is good for business.
Pokemon Go enables players to explore their town. Players are able to obtain materials needed for the game at places called Poke Stops. Just imagine how many people are discovering restaurants, and or stores they haven't looked at before? If businesses find away to connect their businesses with Pokemon, players are going to rush in! Did you know that Pokemon Go will actually teach you about important landmarks around you? Well it does. If a player reaches a Poke Stop, the game provides historical information of that place.
Pokemon Go is bringing people together around the world. People are able to better themselves. Players are giving attention to small businesses and learning about their town's history. An individual should not be called stupid for enjoying this game. Pokemon Go players are learning about the environment around them. Do not discourage someone for having a sense of adventure. Try joining in the fun and realizing how it can change your life.
One final note: If you play Pokemon Go, please play it safely.
