Judith Noonan

Staff Writer

Pokémon has become a new activity for many this summer. Making its way onto campuses everywhere, it has become particularly popular among college students. Some universities have even made this game into a physical activity class, where you can receive credit for playing it.

This fall, students from the University of Idaho can enroll in pop culture games, or “Pokémon 101.” Teachers have said that it gives students a chance to do something physical and learn to work as a team. Many students have been known to shy away from getting enough exercise, and this game could help with that.

At times, it can be difficult to get out of the house. Pokémon Go! is a game that forces you out to explore. Instead of playing a video game inside, you are outside moving around, often with friends.

Globally, Pokémon has brought more of a connectedness with other countries. The game is allowing players to learn more about their surroundings and engage with others.

In a society where social media and the use of cellphones has advanced, more games like this help promote  social awareness. For a lot of students, it’s a fun way to reflect on something they grew up on.

With some of the ongoing violence and serious issues in today’s world, the app has served as a healthy outlet. It can be educational while allowing college-aged people to revel in the glory of the 90s.

It’s always important to play the game safely. Reports of teens walking into traffic to catch creatures such as the ever-popular pikachu remind students to look both ways before crossing the street. It can also be a great thing to do with children and families. This game is a new way to have something for people to do  both on campus and nationwide, with the quad being a popular place to hunt the pocket monsters.

If Pokémon Go! sounds like fun to you, or you know someone who might like it, give it a go! You can visit the Idaho Museum of Natural History on campus for upcoming rallies.

The app is free to download. You can build a character, start searching for nearby Pokémon, join a team and start training. Happy hunting!