Pokémon Go has only been out for a few days, but it has already taken the world by storm. Everywhere you go, there are people roaming the streets on the hunt for Pokémon and the nearest Pokéstops, which happen to be local parks, churches and buildings. I was skeptical at first, but after following a group of players through the night and walking much more than I ever would on a regular Sunday, I gave in and plugged myself into the Pokématrix.
Before we dive into all the wonderful things Pokémon Go has and does, let’s get the problems out of the way. Since the game blew up directly after its release, people flooded the game at a speed it was clearly not prepared for.
The glitches that occur can make people break phones, cry, scream and cause a huge scene, or maybe that’s just me. But, it is undeniable that keeping a level head while searching for a Squirtle that’s OBVIOUSLY right in front of you is absolutely impossible. Both Pokémon and battles alike are lost in the unjust system of glitchy gaming, bullying people of all ages. Communities gather together to complain and confirm that misery loves company. We whine in harmony and hope for the day an update comes, so the tragedies can end.
Despite these flaws, its influence grows, speckling the streets with strangers we wouldn’t typically see. With Pokémon Go, the impossible has been done: local nerds have been lured out of their caves and wander into the public. Strangers have become friendlier, starting conversations with the other people gathered in the Poképarking lot of a gas station. Passersby are more open and excited to share the sidewalk now, especially when they share the same team.
(Go Team Mystic. Blue is the only answer.)
Pokémon Go encourages physical activity, directional awareness and obscene data usage. Cellular companies cheer, parents finally get a beer break, and for the first time in a long time: a viral video game has gotten everyone to exercise.
Climbing aboard the hype train was painful, but the water is warm and the grass is green. I didn’t know at first, but as I roamed my streets to catch my first Bulbasaur, the game had caught me.
