One of the latest media obsessions has been with the cat-collecting game from Japan called Neko Atsume. With several million downloads, even its creator is baffled at how popular it's gotten, but in reality, it's the media that surrounds and is part of the game that helped spread it internationally. Like other Japanese trends that made it to America, such as Hello Kitty and Pokémon, the cute characters and interactive abilities draw people into the game. Then Neko Atsume is spread by pictures (the game encourages photo-taking of your personal backyard and cats) on social media outlets and the like. Even I heard of the game from a friend. Players aren't disappointed either, Neko Atsume is an addicting and fun game to play on the go and to share and compare with friends. The endless possibilities keep audiences wanting more and more of the cute kittens.
Neko Atsume also reflects real life. The cat game is basically run like a business, where the cats thank the players for their hospitality by paying in fish, which can be used to buy food, toys, furniture, and yard upgrades. It makes the player feel like they are making all of the decisions, that they are in control. This could be another theory as to why the app has such high acclaim.
Neko Atsume is one of the many examples of how media can spread all over the world by other media. It makes me think of how many American things have made their way to other nations. Having these cross-cultural bonds help bring people together in a positive way. This game has become so popular due to how people can connect to each other with it as well as its appeal. It's so simple yet so intriguing, and can bring the concept of a kooky cat lady right to your pocket and/or screen.
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