Pokémon Thread




Welcome to the Pokémon Thread! If you're a fan of the classic Pokémon games but crave something a little spicier, you've just found your new favorite spot on the internet. This thread is packed with some of the best ROM hacks out there, those creative twists and turns that keep our beloved Pokémon games fresh and exciting. Whether you're here for the nostalgia or just want to see Pikachu in a new hat (or maybe as a Dragon-type?), I've got you covered. So, grab your 3DS, get comfy, and let's dive into a world where the possibilities are as endless as our love for Pokémon!

Game Boy Color hacks

Pokémon Prism

Pokémon Prism


Pokémon Prism (English)

Pokémon Prism (Español)



Let’s kick things off with my absolute favorite ROMhack to date, Pokémon Prism. This gem takes everything you love about classic Pokémon and cranks it up to eleven. Imagine exploring not just one or two, but five regions! Each with its own unique flavor. Okay, so only two of them are fully explorable, but trust me, that’s more than enough to keep you hooked for hours on end.

What really sets Pokémon Prism apart is how it adds three entirely new types to the mix. These aren’t just tacked on for the sake of it; they actually rebalance the entire type chart, making battles feel fresh and strategic in a way that’ll keep even veteran trainers on their toes.

But it doesn’t stop there. This ROM hack throws in some seriously clever mechanics, like the ability to solve puzzles or even play as your own Pokémon to navigate certain tricky areas. It’s these little twists that make every moment of the game feel like an adventure. And let’s not forget the 20 obtainable medals, a fun challenge for all you completionists out there. Plus, you get to customize your character to really make the journey your own.

When it comes to Game Boy Color hacks, Pokémon Prism is hands-down the most polished and engaging experience you’ll find. If you’re looking for a fresh take on a beloved classic, this is the one to play.

POKÉMON PRISM
Base game
Pokémon Crystal
Generation
VI
Released 2016
Updated 2023
Category Brand new game
Group



Pokémon Coral




Next up on our list is the charming Pokémon Coral. Believe it or not, this one runs at a smooth 60 FPS. It’s like playing a classic Pokémon game with the polish of a modern title. One of the first things you’ll notice is the revamped soundtrack. The tunes in Pokémon Coral are an absolute treat, breathing new life into the familiar 8-bit world. And then there’s the lovely graphics, the game features Pokémon until Gen 7, each one beautifully reimagined for the Game Boy Color’s aesthetic.

The adventure itself is fresh and exciting, offering something for both newcomers and seasoned trainers alike, and let’s talk about the enhanced features. Pokémon Coral takes the charm of GameBoy games and pairs it with the gameplay innovations of the modern generations. Whether it’s the improved mechanics, the variety of Pokémon, or the sheer attention to detail, this ROM hack is a must-play for anyone looking to experience Pokémon in a whole new light.

POKÉMON CORAL
Base game
Pokémon Crystal
Generation
VIII
Released 2017
Updated 2022
Category Brand new game
Author



Pokémon TCG Generations




Alright, let’s talk about a ROM hack that took me by surprise, Pokémon TCG Generations. I’ll be honest, I’ve never been the biggest fan of the Trading Card Game, but this hack completely changed that for me. PaperFire did an amazing job with his first hack, and it made me actually want to dive into the world of TCG.

The gameplay itself stays true to the original, but what sets this hack apart is how it incorporates Pokémon and attacks from all generations. Each one comes with its respective effects, weaknesses, and resistances, giving the game a fresh, modern feel without losing that classic TCG charm. The stunning art style is another highlight, PaperFire is a seriously talented artist, and his work here is nothing short of amazing. If you haven’t checked out his other art, do yourself a favor and dive in; it’s well worth your time.

But what’s really cool is that there are two alternative versions of this hack to keep things interesting:
  • The LC (Little Cup) version, in which you can only get Common Cards from the Booster Packs. It’s a simple but fun challenge if you’re looking for something a bit different.
  • The One for One version, in which you can only use one copy of each card in the game, kind of like a Gym Leader Challenge. This mode adds a strategic twist that’ll test your deck-building skills in a whole new way.

So whether you’re a TCG veteran or someone like me who’s just getting into it, this hack offers something for everyone. Definitely give it a shot—you might just find yourself hooked on the TCG all over again!

Pokémon TCG Generations [Update v1.6]
byu/AverageJohtonian in3dsqrcodes

POKÉMON TCG GENERATIONS
Base game
Pokémon Trading Card Game
Generation
IX
Released2023
Updated2024
CategoryFull revamp
Author

Game Boy Advance hacks

Pokémon GS Chronicles



Now, let’s dive into Game Boy Advance hacks starting with the incredible Pokémon GS Chronicles, a ROM hack that breathes new life into the beloved Generation II games. Think of it as a reboot of the classics, but with a modern twist that brings the best of today’s Pokémon world into the nostalgic Johto and Kanto regions.

GS Chronicles stays true to the essence of HeartGold and SoulSilver, but it doesn’t just stop there. It adds plot twists, modern gimmicks like Mega Evolution and Z-Moves, and a ton of other features that make it feel fresh and exciting. The graphics have been given a serious upgrade, and the new regional Pokédex includes Pokémon from the first four generations, plus Sylveon for good measure.

The game features a renewed storyline that stays faithful to the original but introduces new events never seen in any previous GSC remake. The maps are beautifully based on those from HGSS, and you’ll find yourself exploring familiar locations with a fresh perspective. It also features a day and night system is in place, along with day/time-based events and wild Pokémon that switch depending on the time, just like in the remakes!

Also, PokéRides replace outdated HMs, making exploration smoother and more intuitivem, and all new Gen 4-8 moves are included, along with a few custom moves, and the type chart has been updated to reflect modern mechanics. You’ll find new puzzles, plenty of updated graphics like battle backgrounds, bags, trainer cards, and more. Plus, there are new locations in Johto and Kanto to discover, and the battle mechanics have been updated to match Gen 8 standards. And there’s even more packed into this ROM hack. If you’re a fan of the Johto region or just looking for a fresh take on a classic, this is one you don’t want to miss.

POKÉMON GS CHRONICLES
Base game
Pokémon FireRed
Generation
VIII
Released 2019
Updated 2024
Category Brand new game
Reimagination
Group



Pokémon Emerald Genesis



Now, let me introduce you to my personal favorite Emerald hack, Pokémon Emerald Genesis. This take remodels the classic Pokémon Emerald, with a focus on upgrading the graphics, enhancing the game engine, and generally giving the game a modern touch. Pokémon Emerald Genesis offers a ton of features that breathe new life into the Hoenn region:
  • Retiled Hoenn: The region has been completely retiled, giving it the facelift it desperately needed.
  • New Pokémon: 37 new Pokémon from Generations 4-7 and 1 new regional variant have been added, expanding the roster in exciting ways.
  • New Moves and Abilities: There are 30 new moves from Generations 4-6, 5 custom moves, and 15 new abilities from Generations 4-7.
  • Day and Night System: A fully functional day/night system adds a dynamic element to your adventure.
  • Dex Nav Feature: You can now use Dex Nav to track down Pokémon and explore the region more thoroughly.
  • Modern Conveniences: Enjoy running shoes indoors, the Generation 5 Repel System, and reusable TMs.
  • Increased Difficulty Curve: The game features an increased difficulty curve to challenge even the most seasoned trainers.
  • Story Alterations: There are a few slight changes to the story, including a new character who adds an interesting twist.
  • Buffs: Several Pokémon and moves that previously had low viability have been buffed.
  • New Legendary Events: There are several new legendary events to discover, adding exciting new content to the endgame.
  • Custom Songs: The soundtrack has been spiced up with several custom songs.

POKÉMON EMERALD GENESIS
Base game
Pokémon Emerald
Generation
VII
Released2019
Updated2020
CategoryFull revamp
Author



Pokémon Fire×Red Extended



Let me introduce you to my favorite Kanto hack, Fire×Red Extended, a bold reimagining of the Kanto region that takes everything you love about the original and supercharges it with modern features and a massive roster of Pokémon. With all Pokémon from the first through the eighth generation available for capture, this hack offers a fresh and exciting experience whether you’re a Pokémon veteran or someone diving into the world of Pokémon for the first time. Although the journey is confined to Kanto and doesn’t include the seven islands from the original FireRed, the expanded roster and other enhancements more than make up for it.

Visually, Fire×Red Extended delivers a revamped experience with darkened fonts for better readability, a dark theme on the HP bars, and improvements across various in-game locations, from Bill’s PC to the tilesets. HP bars now disappear during moves for a sleeker look, and IVs are visible right in the summary screen. The nature system has also been overhauled, with color-coded indicators that show stat increases and decreases, making team-building more intuitive. Additionally, a large number of battle backgrounds have been added to keep the visuals fresh throughout your adventure.

When it comes to Pokémon data, Fire×Red Extended is packed with features that modernize the gameplay. You’ll find Pokémon from Kanto to Galar, including regional and gender variants, with options to customize the forms of certain Pokémon like Rotom and Deoxys. While the hack doesn’t include Mega Evolution, Dynamax, or Gigantamax, it offers a wide variety of evolution methods, some familiar and some brand new. Whether it’s through level-ups, evolutionary stones, or specific party setups, evolving your Pokémon is more diverse and engaging than ever.

Fire×Red Extended also introduces several new mechanics that add depth to the game. The Dynamic Machines system in PokéMarts lets you teach your Pokémon up to five moves and even change their nature, providing more strategic flexibility. The Fossil System allows you to resurrect ancient Pokémon from fossils scattered across Kanto, while Wormholes let you access remote locations in outer space, where you can encounter Ultra Beasts and Legendary Pokémon. The Safari Game has also been massively overhauled, offering more than 16 maps for catching a wide variety of species. And when you’re ready to prove your worth, there's a newly designed Pokémon League, I won't spoil, but promises a big challenge worthy of the Hall of Fame!

POKÉMON FIRE×RED EXTENDED
Base game
Pokémon FireRed
Generation
IX
Released2022
Updated2024
CategoryRework
Full revamp
Author




Pokémon Radical Red



Pokémon Radical Red stands out among the many Fire Red enhancement hacks available today, and for good reason. As someone who enjoys difficulty hacks, everyone considers it a masterpiece in the genre, right up there with the likes of Clover and Vega. At its core, Radical Red is a challenging experience, but it doesn’t just ramp up the difficulty, it also packs in a wealth of features to help you tackle its tough battles. If you’re familiar with Drayano's enhancement hacks, you'll find this one quite similar in its approach, offering access to nearly every Pokémon while incorporating buffs and quality of life improvements that make the game both challenging and enjoyable.

The hack is built on the Complete FireRed Upgrade engine and Dynamic Pokémon Expansion, which introduce some truly game-changing features. Expect all the modern mechanics you’ve come to love, such as the Physical/Special split, Fairy typing, Mega Evolution, and even Raid Battles. You’ll find Pokémon, moves, and abilities up to Gen 8, making for a comprehensive experience that feels like a blend of the best aspects of the franchise. On top of that, features like EV Training Gear, Gen 8’s Exp Share, and a faster turbo speed ensure that the grind is far less tedious, letting you focus on strategy and team-building.

What really sets Radical Red apart, though, is the attention to detail in its design. The game boasts significantly improved AI, maxed IVs for bosses, and optimized movesets that require you to think carefully about your approach. With a soft level cap to prevent over-leveling and random team rotations for bosses near the end, every battle feels fresh and demanding. Add in side bosses like Johto Gym Leaders, a revamped Game Corner, and a Pokémon League with a trainer for every type, and you’ve got a hack that not only challenges you but also rewards you with a rich, immersive Pokémon experience.

POKÉMON RADICAL RED
Base game
Pokémon FireRed
Generation
VIII
Released2020
Updated2024
CategoryRework
Full revamp
Authorsoupercell


Pokémon Odyssey


Now, let me introduce you to Pokémon Odyssey, a unique crossover project that blends the worlds of Pokémon, Made in Abyss, and Etrian Odyssey into one epic dungeon-crawling adventure. But don’t worry, you don’t need to know anything about Etrian Odyssey or Made in Abyss to dive right into this game and enjoy it to the fullest!

The adventure begins on the island of Talrega, home to the entrance of the Yggdrasil Labyrinth, a vast and mysterious maze that has drawn adventurers from all over the world with its promises of treasure and glory. Whether you’re after riches, fame, or just looking to test your trainer skills, the labyrinth awaits. But beware, there’s more to this maze than meets the eye. You’ll step into the shoes of Nyx, a young adventurer eager to take on the labyrinth’s challenges and surpass her older sister, Aimée, a legendary explorer. Along the way, you’ll meet companions like Ethan, an introverted boy with a mysterious connection to Aimée, and Olympia, a strange girl who claims to be a robot and shares a similar link to Nyx’s sister. As you descend deeper into the labyrinth, things start to go wrong, and an unforgettable journey unfolds.

Pokémon Odyssey is not your typical Pokémon game. Here’s what sets it apart:

  • A brand-new story and region to explore.
  • Double battles only, unless you only have one Pokémon with you.
  • No Gym Leaders, evil teams, or Elite Four. Instead, it’s all about exploration!
  • Every Pokémon has been rebalanced for this game.
  • Discover new regional forms known as Etrian Variants.
  • A mix of available Pokémon from Generations 1 to 3, along with some Gen 4 evolutions and extras like Farigiraf.
  • Multiple difficulty settings with soft level caps to keep the challenge fresh.
  • Quality of life features like an EV-IV screen, nature colors, and more.
  • No healing items allowed during battles, making strategy key.
  • Etrian Odyssey-inspired features such as Mining and Gathering points, Naval Exploration, Shop Upgrades, and FOEs (Formidable Opponents).
  • Sidequests galore, with a handy sidequest menu to track your progress.
  • Every Pokémon in the game has max IVs, so you don’t have to grind for a decent one.
  • Instead of gaining EVs from battles, you’ll need to use Power Items or Vitamins, which come at a reduced price.
  • Easily change your Pokémon’s nature and ability using in-game functions.
  • The Exp. Share works like it does in Gen VI, simplifying the leveling process.
  • A completely new soundtrack to accompany your journey.

Pokémon Odyssey offers a fresh and challenging experience that stands out from traditional Pokémon games, with its unique story, mechanics, and a focus on exploration. Whether you’re a fan of dungeon-crawlers or just looking for something different, this game is definitely worth a try!


POKÉMON ODYSSEY
Base game
Pokémon FireRed
Generation
VIII
Released2022
Updated2024
CategoryBrand new game
AuthorTeam Echoes




Pokémon Sword & Shield Ultimate Plus



I’m excited to announce that the English version of the GBA demake of Pokémon Sword & Pokémon Shield is now complete! This demake brings the charm of the GBA era to the modern Pokémon experience, blending nostalgia with the new features we loved in Sword & Shield.

New features include:

  • New sprites: Enjoy fresh, detailed sprites that capture the essence of Galar in classic GBA style.
  • New Music: Experience reimagined tracks that bring the Galar region to life.
  • New Battle Backgrounds: Battle in beautifully designed backgrounds that enhance every encounter.
  • Fly Map: A convenient Fly Map replaces the Corviknight system, making fast travel easier than ever.
  • Many New Side Quests: Dive into a variety of new side quests that add depth and adventure to your journey.
  • Diving: Use the Dive feature to navigate quickly and explore hidden areas.
  • Reimagined Dynamax Adventures: Dynamax Adventures have been reimagined for the GBA, offering a fresh challenge.
  • New Rose Tower Challenge: Test your skills in the Rose Tower Challenge and earn unique rewards.
  • New Rewards for Trainer Tower: The Trainer Tower now offers new and exciting rewards for those who conquer it.
  • Reworked Shop System: Shops have been reworked to offer a better shopping experience with more options.
  • General Bug Fixes: Numerous bug fixes have been implemented to ensure smooth gameplay.

And that’s not all, there’s even more to discover as you journey through this GBA adaptation of Pokémon Sword & Pokémon Shield. Whether you’re revisiting Galar with a fresh perspective or experiencing it for the first time, this demake is packed with surprises and improvements that make it a must-play for fans of the series. Enjoy!

POKÉMON SWORD & SHIELD
Base game
Pokémon FireRed
Generation
VIII
Released2022
Updated2024
CategoryBrand new game
AuthorPCL.G
Jean Stars





Downloads


That’s all for now, but don’t worry, more amazing romhacks are coming up sooner than you think! Whether you're into classic remakes, challenging hacks, or unique crossovers, there’s plenty more on the horizon to keep your Pokémon journey exciting. 

In the meantime, here’s a direct download link to get started with these awesome romhacks. Enjoy the adventure, and stay tuned for what’s next!