Pokemon GO
Price: Free
Rating: 3/5
Is it any good: If the execution were clean and privacy and safety weren’t concerns, this would be a brilliant game — and certainly lots of people are having a great time playing it. Sadly, the experience has a range of poor design choices, technical issues, and security risks.
Still, there’s something magical about the social phenomenon and immediate point of connection with other players: Everywhere you go — in libraries, at the grocery store, on the street — people are playing Pokémon GO and approaching each other, smiling and talking enthusiastically about their collections, strategies, and levels. This positive reception indicates players’ willingness to overlook the game’s imperfections, as well as the stories of distracted players getting hurt, lost, or robbed.
Discussion points:
- Talk about physical safety. It’s great to get out in the world and be active, but it’s not safe to walk, ride, or drive while looking at your phone. Also, your family’s rules about neighborhood boundaries and keeping safe outside should apply.
- Talk about finding balance between using a screen and other activities. Though Pokémon GO is more active than some games and encourages interaction, it’s still an on-screen experience. How can you find a stopping point?
- Why do app/game companies want to collect user data? What do you think they do with it?
- Why do you think this particular game is so popular? What sets it apart from other games, and why does it appeal to such a wide range of players? What makes it so fun, and how can the whole family play together safely?
- TC- What student choice and agency actually looks like - November 15, 2016
- What student choice and agency actually looks like - November 14, 2016
- App of the Week: Science sensor meets your smartphone - November 14, 2016
