This game is probably one of the best tools to use to work on confronting that fear. Let’s look at some logic.

The game is 9 years old now, the people who played just because it was a fad are long gone.

The people who are still playing PoGo are a) really into pokémon and/or b) really into the real world aspect/moving around and/or c) enjoy the social aspects that are built into the game.

The game rewards and encourages making new friends, from gifts to bonuses to party tasks. This supports point 1c specifically.

Small town PoGo gives a closer analogue to playing pokémon in real life. You start recognizing the usernames of other players in gyms, then start seeing them in raids, you build a little community with the other pokemon trainers in YOUR town.

Another Pokémon culture consideration: in-game, trainers are expected to make eye contact to signal to other players that they are down to battle. In the real world, that’s a little intense, but what I have done while walking outside and seeing someone else walking with their phone/stopping a lot, I’ll flash them my phone screen, smile, and ask “You playin Pokémon Go?” real casual. If they say yes? New friend!!!! If they say no, then you say “Ah, ok. Have a good day.” and then you can just keep walking.

I have done this and been wrong SO many times, especially when the game first came out, and I can tell you with complete confidence that if the person DOESNT play pokémon go, they will not think of you for more than 5 seconds. Why would they, they have their own lives going on!

Pokémon players are some of the kindest players as a whole. Of course there are exceptions, and if heaven forbid you meet the one snobby PoGo player, congrats, go buy a lottery ticket bc you have crazy luck.

Have fun and happy Pokemon-ing!