Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Pokémon Ruby Version refines the classic catch-and-train formula with new layers of strategy and exploration. Right from the start in Littleroot Town, you choose between Treecko, Torchic, or Mudkip—each with its own elemental strengths and evolutionary paths. The familiar turn-based battles have been bolstered by the introduction of double battles, where coordinating two Pokémon at once offers fresh tactical depth. Planning moves that synergize—such as pairing a status-inflicting attacker with a powerful physical sweeper—becomes a rewarding puzzle.

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Beyond gym challenges, Hoenn’s landscape is filled with hidden Grottos, berry plants, and secret bases that encourage thorough exploration. New items like Devon Goods, Super Potions, and rare evolution stones are scattered across the region, rewarding trainers who stray off the beaten path. The expanded move pool and over 350 Pokémon add further variety, making team-building an ongoing delight. Experimenting with new Abilities—like Overgrow for Treecko or Torrent for Mudkip—shapes your approach to everything from wild encounters to the Pokémon League gauntlet.

Wireless Link battles and trades take advantage of the Game Boy Advance’s adapter, enabling local multiplayer showdowns. Whether you’re battling friends in a double battle format or trading to complete your Hoenn Pokédex, the social aspect enhances replayability. Side features such as Pokémon Contests and the Battle Tower provide optional challenges for those seeking more than just gym badges. Overall, Ruby’s gameplay loop strikes a fine balance between accessible fun and deep strategy, making it a standout entry in the series.

Graphics

On the Game Boy Advance hardware, Pokémon Ruby Version delivers vibrant, detailed sprites that bring Hoenn’s flora and fauna to life. Character portraits during key dialogue scenes are expressive, giving Gym Leaders and rivals memorable personalities. Overworld tiles—ranging from sun-dappled forests to volcanic mountains—showcase a rich color palette that remains pleasing even after countless hours on screen.

Battle animations are fluid and impactful, with each move featuring its own visual flourish. The crackle of Fire-type attacks or the sweeping waves from Water-type moves feel satisfying and distinct. While the GBA’s screen size and resolution place natural limits on detail, the developers have maximized clarity by designing clean, easily readable battle interfaces and menus.

Environmental effects, such as rustling grass or flowing rivers, may be subtle, but they help convey a living world. Special areas like Meteor Falls or the Sky Pillar boast unique backdrop images that feel grander than typical routes. Overall, Ruby’s graphics strike a nostalgic balance—simple enough to maintain solid performance, yet polished enough to charm modern players exploring Hoenn for the first time.

Story

Pokémon Ruby Version begins with a simple but effective premise: you’re the newest trainer in Littleroot Town, sent off by Professor Birch to document and collect Pokémon. As you progress through eight gyms—each with its own thematic puzzles and battling styles—you unravel the motives of Team Magma, who seek to awaken the powerful Groudon and reshape the world’s lands and seas.

The rivalry with Team Magma adds urgency and purpose beyond the quest for badges. Their charismatic leaders, Maxie and Tabitha, articulate a grand vision that feels credible within Hoenn’s ecosystem. Chasing them through abandoned bases, volcanic lairs, and ancient shrines lends a cinematic quality to your journey. Along the way, you forge bonds with Gym Leaders, rescue captured Pokémon, and catch glimpses of the legendary legendary titans.

Character interactions—from the playful banter of your rival May/Brendan to the stern guidance of Gym Leaders—imbue the adventure with warmth and motivation. Side narratives, like helping fishermen restore a family’s livelihood or healing Pokémon in distress, enrich the main plot without detracting from the central conflict. By the time you confront the Elite Four and face Groudon itself, you’re fully invested in the fate of Hoenn.

Overall Experience

Pokémon Ruby Version stands as a landmark title that balances accessibility for newcomers with depth for veteran trainers. The fusion of exploration, team customization, and strategic battling ensures that every play session feels fresh. Optional activities—Pokémon Contests, Battle Tower challenges, and secret base customization—extend the game’s lifespan well beyond the credits.

The Hoenn region’s diverse environments and the impressive roster of over 350 Pokémon encourage careful planning and discovery. Whether you’re experimenting with double-battle combos, training a balanced team to conquer the Elite Four, or hunting down rare species in watery caves, the gameplay loop remains engaging. Wireless trading and battling foster a sense of community among local friends, even in the pre-internet era.

While the technical limitations of the Game Boy Advance era are apparent by modern standards, the core design and presentation of Pokémon Ruby shine through. Its combination of strategic depth, narrative drive, and memorable characters makes it a must-play for any fan of the series. For those seeking an immersive, replayable adventure filled with exploration and creature-collecting thrills, Hoenn awaits.

Retro Replay Score

7.9/10