By Duncan Kingori from UltimateGamechair
When Pokemon Go (PG), first came to the market in 2016, it was as though time came to a standstill. Millions of people jumped on the bandwagon almost immediately and the entire world was on their smartphones playing this game. In a flash, it was the most important thing to do breaking records in terms of downloads and usage time.
For a game that does not require players to invest in the best joystick, it sure took the world by storm. To date, many still wonder what makes PG the success that it is. While there are a myriad of reasons, below we discuss the top 5 reasons Pokemon Go is insanely successful.
1. Augmented Reality and Ease of Play
Pokemon Go creators beautifully embedded an engaging experience making gameplay very exciting for any player. This makes the characters of the game feel more alive bridging the gap between the physical and digital world.
Additionally, PG is an easy and intuitive game to play. You do not need to read any manual to get started. It does not demand the use of expensive equipment and there are no barriers for anyone who wants to join the action. All you need is a smartphone with GPS and a camera. If by any chance you are not too familiar with the game here is all you need to do:
I. Walk outdoors
II. Look for a Pokemon
III. When you find it catch it by flicking a Pokeball
IV. Do it again
2. Enhances Social Interaction
In this digital age, socializing can be pretty challenging especially for individuals who have certain personality traits. Then there is a notion that video games end up ruining social relationships.
This is not the case with Pokemon Go because various aspects of this game actually create social opportunities by creating a sense of belonging to a common cause. For instance, the “raids” challenges encourage coordination and cooperation where half a dozen players are required to beat the powerful legendary raid bosses. It makes it easier for strangers to start conversations and ultimately strengthen social ties.
3. Neurological Reward Systems
Playing video games has been known to help in the production endorphins which are mood- boosting chemicals as a reward for an essentially motionless task. A player sits down, manages to complete a level and the brain instantly picks this up as an achievement enabling you to enjoy an endorphin rush.
This is exactly what Pokemon Go does each time you catch a Pokemon only this time you will be getting a double dose of this great stuff. This is simply because exercise is also great when it comes to producing endorphins.
4. Emotional Connection and Nostalgia
Many gamers find Pokemon Go appealing because they remember playing it when they were younger thus getting a nostalgic feel each time they are out hunting for Pokemon. Individuals are interested in the new yet familiar experience which allows them to re-live their younger days and feel good about it.
Nostalgia studies reveal that the feeling boosts creativity, and increases inspiration and optimism among many other positive traits. The game reminds you of the fun things you used to do with the people you care about; thus, allowing you to think of better times in the future.
5. Helps Players to Explore Nature
Nature is good for your health in multiple ways. Pokemon Go through gratification offers Pokemon trainers the golden opportunity to explore a multitude of green spaces. The only way to complete your collection in a fun manner is to visit parks where you can find the nests of the Pokemon you want. Because they do not leave in one place for long, you can keep up with opportunities that will keep you in the loop of the locations you need to visit next. In addition to getting fresh air being close to nature can also help in better cognitive development especially for kids who visit the green routes often as they commute between home and school.
Conclusion
Pokemon Go remains the perfect game for many individuals across different age groups. It has the potential to change your life for the better improving both your health and social life.
About the author: Duncan Kingori from UltimateGamechair
Duncan has been in the writing profession for a decade now. He has great experience writing informative articles and his work has been appreciated and published in many popular publications. His education background in communication and public relations has given him a concrete base from which to approach different topics in various niches.
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