5 Ways Pokémon GO Has Already Changed the World We Live In

It’s hard to believe Pokémon GO only left closed beta on July 6th. In its short time in the public, this newest iteration of the Pokémon craze has already left its mark in the following five ways.

1. Young People Are Outside

   

   Pokémon GO forces its playerbase to actually head into the wild to find and catch pokémon, so don’t be surprised when a pale, sun-blinded millennial emerges from his burrow like Punxsutawney Phil to grab your local park’s population of Caterpies.

2. You Have to Watch Your Step

   

   Whether you’re playing the game or just walking the streets, Pokémon GO has made a good portion of the pedestrian world a lot less attentive. Bumps and accidents are inevitable, but keeping an eye on the path ahead will make everyone safer.

3. The Pokérap Is Relevant Again

   

   The hours of backbreaking labor you spent memorizing those sacred 151 for Red and Blue is paying off again. Whether you’re at a family dinner, a blind date or just on the phone with grandma, make sure you bring up your Pokéxpertise. Bonus points if you do recite it to music.

4. Battery Packs and Service Providers Just Hit the Jackpot

   

   Pokémon GO has one pretty annoying problem. It drains life faster than an overactive zubat. While your remaining monthly data and battery are falling, you can at least be happy that someone at the top is going to make a lot of money.

5. Life Is Just a Little Bit More Fun

   

   In the current “freemium” age of mobile gaming, it’s worth celebrating when something as new and entertaining as Pokémon GO breaks the mold. If you haven’t tried it out, give it a shot. If you’re already a trainer like me, then consider me your new rival!