If you’re someone like me, you were skeptical about the release of the new "Pokémon Go" app that made its appearance early this July. I didn’t know much about it at first, just that everyone seemed to have it. The activity on the app was so intense that a lot of people had to wait because the server was packed with future Pokémon trainers. But now that I’ve downloaded the app myself and have caught a few Pokémon, I’m starting to understand the hype about the game. You could walk into your living room one day and there’ll be a Ratata on your couch! Or look into your backyard and find a Snorlax chilling on your back deck! I’ve come to discover though it’s not all about finding the Pokémon. Here are five advantages of "Pokémon Go."

1. Free app

I was quite surprised when I went to download the game to find it free. I know the creators get money for every download they receive, but they could have made even more money if they put a dollar or two on the app, since it’s become an overnight sensation! But I salute the creators of the game for giving every Pokémon trainer, young and old, access to their game!

2. "Pokémon Go" (outside and get some fresh air)

An added bonus to this game is the excitement factor of being notified that there’s a nearby Pokémon and it’s your job to go and get it! Now, you’re not going to be able to catch all the Pokémon sitting on your couch! I believe an advantage to this game is getting its players up off the couch and outside! I’ve even read that people get into their car and drive for miles just to catch these animated creatures. Whether you’re just walking to your backyard or getting into a car to drive to the beach, there’s definitely an underlying benefit to this game for getting its players outside every once and a while.

3. Connecting with friends

Practically overnight "Pokémon Go" has become a phenomenon; people of all ages are playing it! I’ve read countless stories about people coming together over this game, whether it’s comparing the kinds of Pokémon they’ve already caught or running into each other at the same location to catch a Pokémon. With all of the horrible tragedies happening lately all around the world, it’s nice to see when people do come together, even if it’s over a phone app!

4. Aspect of collecting

My favorite part about this game is that with each new day or area you travel to comes a variety of Pokémon you could catch and add to your Pokédex! I personally love collecting and having a list of the Pokémon I’ve already caught so that feature is an added bonus in my opinion. And if you’re someone who just loves to travel and collect, this game was practically made for you!

5. Nostalgia

Growing up, my brother’s and I filled binders and binders full of Pokémon cards. We wouldn’t leave a grocery store or a CVS without asking our mom to buy us a pack. We would watch the shows, play the games—we were obsessed with the Pokémon franchise and for me personally, this game brings me back to my childhood, to playing this game and going into Pokémon battles with my brothers. I love that the creators have been able to delve up a game that basically throws me back into my childhood in the best way possible.