The Social Value of Pokémon Go

Late last year, I wrote about how Pokémon contains social aspects within its games, of which there are quite a few. This time, I'd like to discuss that for the specific case of Pokémon Go, only with a slightly different emphasis. That would be on social value, as what social things are or can be gained from the game. Back then, I noted that Pokémon Go is a highly social game, and it is true even now with current conditions; therefore, there are still at least some values to be gained from the game.

One of those values is social cohesion, as through meetings that allow Trainers to bond with one another. Raids have always been the facility for this since the beginning, though in more recent times tournaments have become an additional facility. What would ordinarily take place in person now takes place over chats through smartphones or other devices, at least for the time being. Though interactions of the latter cannot stand in for the former, some of the cohesion can be maintained, especially now that raids and (more) battles can take place remotely - the only communicative barrier being the channel and method. Cohesion is of apparent importance, and that will likely remain so no matter what.

Another value is social action, which has often been instilled by Niantic as the game developers themselves, if one video from the Virtual Team Lounge selections don't already affirm as such. In fact, they seem to enjoy and appreciate any stories of social action combined with gameplay; they even encourage informing them of those stories so that they can spread it to others around the world. They can also support social action themselves in different ways, including by the aid of Trainers to suggest places to be supported and donating profits that are gained such as from Pokémon Go Fest ticket sales. Social action for anyone should be a social value of concern, and for Niantic, that seems to always be so.

A third value is social creativity, realized through various creations and coverage on social media. While this would be practically true for any game, including other Pokémon games and especially its main series, the former social value (and to some extent the latter) can and do seem to contribute. It would spur videos, podcasts, and even blog posts such as this one, and they all would be varied in their coverage - for example, Pokémon Go tips and tricks. This blog itself has a varied nature since it attempts to deal with not just Pokémon Go, but also pretty much any aspect of Pokémon, including some odd ones. Any and all of those forms above can and do show social creativity, especially if people like me can undertake to be part of them.

It is hard to not deny the social quality of Pokémon Go. In many cases, Trainers are ultimately necessitated to connect to make things happen. In doing so, they can also undertake other endeavors and/or show good things through a variety of media. Current conditions aren't likely to put a damper on these efforts, and they instead can and do accelerate them. I suppose it's quite worth it for a game so focused on virtual reality to also trigger effects on social reality, being just as important.

One year ago: Adventurous Families

Two years ago: Media Master

Three years ago: Catching Up