The Social Aspect of Pokémon

Something that may be understated or under-emphasized about games and things that have their origins in games is their social aspect. It's easy for many people to perceive someone liking a game or further developments from it to be isolated - Pokémon, for instance. But behind what they like about it and how it has progressed, it may very well be that the social aspect is quite present. Pokémon is like that with its social aspect, and especially what has gone on up until today.

Many of the games, especially the main series games, appear to be and in fact playable by a single player; this seemingly makes the games apparent to be only as such. However, a look inside shows that many of its elements are apt for multiple players to take part in. While it is great to battle the A.I., the ultimate opponent would certainly be another human player. Trading is also only viably possible with another human player, and especially one who are in good relationships. Incidentally, these also illustrate three of what I consider "the four pillars of Pokémon", and they are relationships that really need other people to make them tick - thus, the social aspect.

It is this aspect that has become more prominent in modern times due to the introduction of Pokémon Go, which has become an established Pokémon game by itself. Pokémon Go is a highly social game: Lure Modules are designed to not only last for their specified time, but also beneficial for everyone. Raids too are also designed to involve a number of people working together for the same goal. It becomes a small wonder that this concept was reintegrated into the main series, in the form of Max Raid Battles, even if it's somewhat different. The rest of the "four pillars" came a bit later, but they help bolster the aspect further.

Besides the games, there are lots of things for small and big fans to like about Pokémon. Those fans, who may develop as "Pokétaku", may then be able to get in touch with others of their kind to hold gatherings or get-togethers. These may be to play together when the games are involved, or for discussions, showing off, and the like otherwise. It is surely a wonderful thing that Pokémon provides this opportunity to happen, which is why I was somewhat concerned about some of those opportunities that I missed. Things like these have persisted since the beginning of life for Pokémon, and this is a great thing indeed. It affirms the presence of the aspect.

For Pokémon, the social aspect is clear. Many of the games are meant to be played together, and many of its related things can also be enjoyed together. Though it does seem like its fans are one among few, together its fans can actually be sociable - something I can attest personally. This social aspect is what I find inspiring about Pokémon, and I'm sure it is the same for many other fans like me, whether they started life early with it or came in a little later, enough to keep the aspect alive and present after all these years.

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