By Samson Afolabi-11th Grade, Trinity Christian School

Pikachu, Bulbasaur, Charmander and Squirtle. If you have heard of these names, you probably realize that these are Pokémon, furry creatures from the media franchise of the same name. This franchise has recently spread its services to a new app called Pokémon GO. Pokémon GO is a game where users explore the real world and the app shows Pokémon in various virtual locations correlating to the real world place. This app has taken the hearts of adventurers young and old and has also aroused the distrust of some. However, this app is here, and will not be leaving anytime soon, so it only seems right to see its pros and cons.

One incredibly great pro for Pokémon GO is that it provides kids with a chance to go outside and interact with their surroundings. Normally, with Pokémon’s other games as well as the TV show, it only means a lot of time would be spent indoors. But with Pokémon GO, kids can now go outside and explore while playing, and learn more about their environment. Pokémon GO also brings a new dimension to the world of Pokémon. Now, kids and teenagers can actually catch Pokémon and go to gyms like they do in the show and video games. They can now become real Pokémon trainers and masters.

While the game has some great aspects to it, it also has some cons that should not be discarded. The game can be addicting and, for some, could lead to a problem. Kids may not be able to get away from the game and do what is important. The game also has the ability to distract others from the world as they go about aimlessly as they play, which leads to a very serious point — the game can lead kids to dangerous places, whether or not they are walking aimlessly or they feel like they are safe. These dangers and fears can scare a person when they really start to think about it.

Pokémon GO has exploded into the world and made its impact in a matter of weeks. Some have great things to say about it, while some may have their concerns about it. Before one plays the game, they should consider these pros and cons, and decide whether or not it is right for them. If you decide to play, grab a phone, download the app, and go catch them all.

Samson is an 11^th grader at Trinity Christian School. He lives in North Braddock and has been on the Trinity School Newspaper Staff. He is interested in programming, and is seeking to major in cyber security and have a career in cryptology.