Pokémon GO has taken the world by storm, and your kids are likely begging to play it. But should you? The game is addictive, but unlike other games that encourage mindless screen-tapping, this one gets players outside, exploring parks and neighborhoods. (Part of the game requires you to walk or bike for several miles just to hatch a newborn Pokémon.) Here are some FAQs.
Is Pokémon GO a kid’s game? Yes and no. The game is fun and easy to play, but it’s not something you can play on the couch. You need access to a smart phone and the freedom to wander around parks and public spaces to fully experience the game. Children will also need an adult’s assistance to travel to Pokéstops and Gyms. (And if you don’t know a Pidgey from a Pikachu, check out HiTechMom.com for game play tips.)
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Is Pokémon GO free? Yes. Players have the option to purchase coins with real money to get items to make the game easier. But most of these items can be collected for free.
What do I need to play? A smartphone and pair of walking shoes. Also, a ride to the park. You can play around your neighborhood, but you’ll soon need to visit a PokéStop to pick up free supplies. The game requires GPS, location services, and a solid internet connection. It supports iPhone 5 and later generations and Android 4.4 to Android 6.0.1.
What are PokéStops, and where do I find them? PokéStops are found at public spaces: parks, memorials, museums, churches, even random bike racks. Forest Park is covered in PokéStops, and dozens are located inside the Saint Louis Zoo. We’ve found PokéStops and Gyms at the Arch grounds, Laumeier Sculpture Park, Ted Drewes, and Target. Nearly every park in the metro area is included in the game.
Is the game safe to play? Sadly, criminals have taken advantage of the game’s real world locations. So, like anything else, players need to use common sense. Limit play to daylight hours, and stick to places that you know and where you feel safe. Start by exploring your neighborhood and favorite playground. Turn on “vibration” in the setting menu, and your phone will buzz when a Pokémon is nearby, allowing you to watch your feet instead of your screen while exploring. You can also catch Pokémon from several yards away, so it’s not necessary to cross streets or climb fences to catch wild Pokémon. Advise your kids against trespassing in strangers’ yards while playing Pokémon GO. (One more note on safety: If your Pokémon become good enough to conquer a gym, your player name will be publicly displayed in the application. Choose a name that conceals your identity, just in case.)
Is there a security breach in Pokémon GO? Not anymore! The game’s designers accidentally set up Pokémon GO to require full access to Google accounts, but it was fixed Tuesday afternoon. Please update your game if you haven’t already.
Denise Bertacchi is a mom on a mission to find all things fun for kids to do in St. Louis. Read more at stlmotherhood.com, or follow her at @stlmotherhood on Twitter and Instagram.
