Pokemon Go, getting you out of your couch

Pokemon has made a strong comeback this year with Nintendo's location based game for Android and IoS called 'Pokemon Go'. Facebook's timeline, Instagram and Twitter feeds are loaded with hunters prying around streets catching pokemons in exchange for points and level ups. So, I wondered what the craze was all about and downloaded the .apk file (since the app is yet to be released in India).

While there is nothing to brag about the Interface of the game, the main highlight, in my opinion is that it makes you 'walk'. This is unlike any 'trending' game to have ever been released. I'm quite confident that if I keep playing on, not only would I have a handsome inventory of pokemons, my legs would thank me for finally getting my couch potato self outside.

Another major highlight is the sync between the type of pokemons you catch and your location. Since I live in a predominantly green area, I caught a lot of snake, bat, rat, two headed duck type of pokemons. However, sometimes the game could show ridiculous Poke Stops (a location in real time where you can earn coins, incense and other goodies crucial for gameplay), such as 'Water Tower', like how do we gain access to such areas on foot? Also, this game is highly unsuitable and risky on Indian roads, I almost walked into a wall and a bull. So, it's important that we take the disclaimer of 'staying alert and aware of your surroundings' seriously. You must also be prepared to attract curious attention from pedestrians and bypassers. Its not everyday that people see a highly engrossed cell phone addict on the streets (or is it everyday?)

Overall, I do feel that this game is valuable because it serves two purposes — 'hunting pokemons' and 'getting people out of their homes into the real world' for a change. You'd be surprised to see what you've missed out on in your surroundings, things that wouldn't excite you in the virtual world.

Having said this, I do feel that this game lacks challenges and adventures that would usually keep a gamer going. Personally, I lost a vast amount of interest past level 4, especially since the incense (which lasts for 30 minutes) makes catching pokemons incredibly easier.

While the world is catching pokemons, I think it's essential to do it the safe way. Stay within your quarters and don't venture too far away. Certainly don't pokemon and drive. Go Catch 'em all!

Sarah Ayesha is a senior UI/UX designer. Passionate about exploring her creative side through digital design. Sarah also loves to write to give voice to her intuitive side. When she is not writing, she is often found canoodling a cat or gazing into the depths of the sky