Pokemon FireRed Version

"A Worthy Remake"

Introduction

Nintendo has done it again! Just more than a year after the release of Pokemon Ruby/Sapphire, it will be releasing a remake of Pokemon Red and Green (Blue in the US) on the 29th of January in Japan. The game, Pokemon Fire Red/Leaf Green might be more than just a mere remake though. There will be some extra features, and definitely improved graphics and gameplay.

Pokemon Red and Green were the games that started it all. Since then, many Pokemon games have been released across many Nintendo console and handheld. Each game offering new experience and Pokemon. However, Pokemon Fire Red and Leaf Green are different. It will bring back Pokemon Red and Green, with graphics and gameplay that are comparable to Pokemon Ruby/Sapphire. There is no denying that many will anticipate the release of this game. Older fans will certainly relish the experience of playing Pokemon Red and Green once again. Nostalgia – which is what this game, is all about.

Gameplay 10/10

The Gameplay is definitely better than the original games, and in fact there are minor improvements from Pokemon Ruby/Sapphire that make this game more enjoyable than the originals. This game isn't just a mere remake, there are bonus areas which could not be found in any Pokemon games before. The same goes for the selection of Pokemon available in this game. It will not disappoint the fans, as Nintendo has definitely springs up many surprises in this game.

Without a doubt, the largest overhaul from Pokemon Ruby/Sapphire would be the implementation of the wireless technology. With this device, the game supports multi-player system up to 5 players, without the need of any cable links. With this new technology, there are also some mini games that are playable by two or more players. Moving on to the General gameplay, it's much closer to Ruby/Sapphire rather than the original. There are many improvements in this game. Some minor details such as the running shoes that allow you to sprint through terrain would be nothing but a great addition for the game. New Features such as the voice checker and the new Pokedex look complete this game. However, with the addition of several new features there are also features that are not in the game, notably the contest and secret base that could be found in Pokemon Ruby/Sapphire.

There is also a tutorial system in this game. While some of the older players might consider this feature irrelevant or unnecessary, there are no doubts that this feature will go a long way towards aiding newcomers to the series.

Stoyrline 7/10

Storyline wise, this game sticks true to the original Pokemon Red/Blue. With the exception of changes in minor details, the game retain the ''Be a Pokemon League Champion'' storyline. The classic storyline isn't as thought provoking or mind probing as some of the newer RPG, nevertheless it doesn't fail to evoke nostalgia among old school Pokemon players. Of course, there is some extra side story as well, considering the extra places that you can explore in this game. If you are a Pokemon fans, there are no doubt that you'll enjoy this game. However to be honest, if you are used to the regular Final Fantasy storyline, this game storyline is inferior in both story and characterization.

Graphics 9/10

Imagine seeing Pokemon Red/Blue graphics in GBA. While it's obvious that the game will have a better graphics than the original game, considering its system capabilities, the graphics is on par with Ruby/Sapphire if not slightly better. The graphics look detailed enough, that places such as Mt Moon, Rock Tunnel and Unknown Dungeon have their own ambience. Unknown Dungeon has never looked this good.

In addition to that, the game also contains a firs person perspectives when you enter certain buildings or caves. This happens each time you enter the buildings itself. Surprisingly, despite this fact this addition of first person perspectives isn’t annoying at all. The first person perspective graphics only occur for a split second, and it definitely helps to enhance the atmosphere of that particular place.

Music 9/10

The same original music is used here. Nothing really changed here, except that the music are of a better quality. The introduction music accompanied by a short sequence of a fight between Gengar and Nidorino couldn't been done much better. The various music in this game will definitely get players to reminisce the old days of Pokemon.

Replay Value 8/10

Another improvements compared to the original games. You can rebattle some of the trainers in this game. In addition to that, the inclusion of Battle Tower will delight Pokemon battler. The Battle Tower will provide much needed challenge, even after you've beaten this game. Also, the number of TM/HM in this game, as well as the move tutors enable access to a wide variety of moves. This coupled with the fact that you can capture some of the newer Pokemon from Gold/Silver/Crystal, will make the game more strategical. There are no doubts that this is especially useful for Multi-player battle.

Final Words

A great addition to the Pokemon Series. This game is indeed a worthy remake of the original Pokemon Red/Blue. Anyone who have played Pokemon Red/Blue before and enjoyed it should get this game. Not only it has a lot of nostalgia value, the game also offers extra features that justify this game. Definitely one of the best game in the Pokemon series so far. If you have been living in a cave for the past 10 years and you've never even heard of Pokemon in your whole life, this game is still worthwhile to get. Compared to the previous games in the series, this game is more newbie-friendly. Storyline might not be a strong point for this game, but the strategy aspect of the game makes up what it lacks. It is foreseeable, that this game could stood among GBA finest.

Final Score: 10/10

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 02/01/04