Guides Pokémon GO Edward Collins

Games of the Decade: The world would be better if we all played Pokémon Go

Remember the summer when everyone was engrossed in Pokémon Go? It felt like the world was a brighter place. Strangers would come together to spot a Jigglypuff on street corners or rush across parks in search of a Dragonite. Many feel a genuine nostalgia for that time, hoping that if everyone still played, perhaps the world would be a little better than it is today.

However, the essence of that summer still lingers. The camaraderie and joy experienced in 2016, though harder to encounter now, remains alive. Positive interactions stemming from shared gaming experiences continue to unfold around us, especially when those interactions happen in real life—a facet that Pokémon Go has continually excelled at.

Whether it’s organizing meet-ups for challenging Pokémon battles or sharing insights about nearby rare creatures and quests, Pokémon Go is designed to nurture a community among its players. For those who may not be comfortable engaging in online forums like Discord or Facebook groups, the game offers a more passive yet powerful sense of belonging. Walking through a park on Community Day alongside friends or family fosters an undeniable feeling of unity.

The game has significantly expanded its multiplayer features over time, with friends lists showcasing each other’s activities, virtual postcards from visited locations, and trading opportunities that help fill out Pokédexes. The recent additions include high-level solo content, while next year promises full support for in-game leagues and an exciting AR mode that allows friends to hang out and interact with their favorite Pokémon. There is still so much life left in Pokémon Go.

Recently, while taking my usual long route into town, I encountered a Pokémon gym under siege by a rival team. I spotted a group of students, clearly engrossed in Pokémon Go, and decided to pause and connect. Holding up my phone to show them I was playing too, we shared a moment of laughter and exchanged high fives. That simple gesture was powerful—it communicated, “We’re both part of this, even as rivals.” I am genuinely thankful for Pokémon Go, as it fosters these interactions which are more important now than ever.