When I first heard about the launch of the new Pokémon Go app, I couldn't have cared less. Though I did watch the cartoon series when I was younger, the card game always bored me. News of the app didn’t drum up any immediate interest for me. If I’m being completely honest, it even sounded a bit lame to me. However, as time went on, more and more people that I know began playing it. As all of my friends became addicted to the game, I decided that maybe it was worth looking into. There’s no way that that many people can rave about a horrible game, right? Finally, my boyfriend convinced me to just try the game, so I did.

I downloaded the game, started learning the rules, refreshed my memory on the many Pokémon, and joined team Valor. (Team Red all the way!)

It became an immediate addiction. The very game that I had assumed was lame shocked me. I know I’m a bit late to the Pokemon party that everyone else has been having, but better late than never, I always say. Here are a few things that I love about Pokémon Go:

It’s different.

The makers of this game definitely stepped outside of the box. It ended up being nothing like I expected, which was a great thing, in this case. This app is so different from any other game I’ve played before. I love the augmented reality that makes the game seem as if it’s part of your natural, everyday life. It’s very interesting that local places in my town have become Pokestops or gyms. I love the randomness of the Pokémon and their locations. You never know what you’re going to get, or where, and that keeps the excitement flowing.

It makes you move.

The common complaint of the older generations is that electronics and games make the younger generations lazy and and less social. And let’s face it; they’re partially right. Sitting in front of a computer or TV screen all day isn’t good for your body or social skills. Pokémon Go, however, inspires the exact opposite. Players have to move in order to do virtually everything in the game. Players can’t find Pokémon, PokeStops, Gyms or even hatch eggs without moving. The app even takes note of players’ speeds. If the app detects that you’re moving faster than 20 miles per hour (aka riding in a car) then the movement doesn’t count for as much. These initiatives to get players moving are on of my favorite aspects about the game.

It brings people together.

Pokémon Go is one of those games that is just better when played with friends. It encourages people to get together. The app can be used by members of almost any age group, which makes it fun for the whole family.

Basically, Pokémon Go is shattering everyone's preconceived notions about electronics, games, and the app itself. And let’s face it, it’s just fun. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got some Pokémon to catch.