Even to this day, I think it’s fair to say that a lot of people are surprised that the mobile game from Niantic, Pokémon Go, still remains immensely popular since its launch. Just like the Pokémon creatures that feature in the game, Pokémon Go has evolved largely for the better since its release in 2016.
However, while some many play for the sole purpose of fun, this game can mean more for some and can play an active role to how they interact with daily activities, and ultimately with life. This seems to definitely be the case for a man named Tommy, from London ,England, who has lost 100lbs while playing Pokémon Go.
The news was shared by Niantic in an incredibly inspirational YouTube video, which you can check out below.
Of course, the game can’t be solely credited with weight-loss, because you still have to be at least somewhat physically active and eat sensibly, but coming from someone that is physically disabled and struggles socially with my autism, I can certainly relate to how a game such as Pokémon Go can have a positive impact, especially when it comes to getting out and about. Socially, the game can also be a great way to meet new people.
At his peak weight, Tommy, a student at the University of Greenwich, weighed 25 stone and during his time playing Pokémon Go, has lost over 7 stone so far and counting. Since playing the game, in order to complete challenges, quests and of course catch Pokémon, Tommy has been known to impressively take 20km walks while out Pokémon hunting.
In data collected by developers Niantic, players of their Pokémon Go and Harry Potter: Wizards Unite, walked a whopping combined total of 23 billion kilometres in 2019, which just shows the active impact these mobile games can have, and Tommy is a shining example of such an impact.
Have games such as Pokémon Go, Harry Potter: Wizards Unite, Jurassic World Alive or Minecraft Earth had a positive impact on your life?
Featured Image Credit: Niantic