Feb 06, 2020 This ROM hack features; all Pokemon are catch-able, root fossil replacing old amber in pewter museum, blue and green making more appearance in the game, many maps were changed to reflect on Manga appearance The graphics and display are updated compared to Fire Red, with customizable characters and levels up to 255. Pokemon Celestial X or PCX is a romhack of Pokemon X that changes the shinies for all gen 6 pokemon and has random wild encounters (from the pool of gen 6 pokemon) and random trainer pokemon as well as 1/100 shiny odds and special celestial forms for Pokemon. I think there’s a lot of people in this thread who love Rom hacks but want something more premium like Pokemon Unbound ( new region, story, good graphics, good mechanics, etc.) I understand creating a rom hack with that much effort takes a long, long time. For those who haven't tried playing a GBA ROM hack before, this short tutorial is for you. In this video tutorial I used Pokemon Liquid Crystal hack and if y.
The Pokémon games are always getting released, at least once per two years.
For any new system from Nintendo, there will be a new Pokémon game for it.
So, you can find plenty of Pokémon games right now if you just try to go back to the original Game Boy era. But there’s more.
The fans of this series are also actively creating their own Pokémon games.
Whether it’s in the form of ROM hacks or original game made with a specific engine, you can find plenty of “off the shelf” Pokémon games that you can play today.
You can play them on various devices, not limited to the Nintendo consoles.
Best Pokemon Rom Hacks List
Here are the top 20 Pokémon ROM hacks that you can play today:
Pokémon Eclipse RPG
Pokémon Eclipse RPG is an online RPG game you can play on your browser, which has Pokémon as its main theme.
The game is regularly updated, and currently it is in version 1.5. In this game, you can explore the new region called Apholite, while catching different Pokémon creatures along the way.
You can also find many powerful Pokémon here.
Features:
- The world in this game is constantly being expanded, so you can explore more areas as time goes by.
- You can play this game online on your browser without the need to install any game software.
- You will need to uncover the mystery of the Apholite region and fighting its creator along the way.
- There are also various mini games you can play on Pokémon Eclipse RPG.
- Plenty of Pokémon creatures can be found, trained, and battled in this game.
Pokémon Polished Crystal
Pokémon Polished Crystal is the ROM hack that is made from the Crystal version, which was released for the GBA system in the year 2000.
In this hacked version, there are plenty of improvements that make the Crystal version more polished to play.
The improvements include Pokémon, moves, battle mechanics, Overworld mechanics, Nuzlocke mode, maps, events, and more.
Features:
- You can catch all the 253 Pokémon creatures in this game.
- There are new moves that you can perform, such as Bug Buzz, Astonish, Avalanche, Disarm Voice, and many more.
- There are many battle mechanics from Generation VI that have been added to this game.
- There are many new locations, such as Viridian Forest, Celadon Hotel, Seafoam Islands, and more.
- The additional in-game events are also being added to this hacked version, involving trading, Team Rocket, move tutors, prizes, and more.
Pokémon Mega Adventure
Pokémon Mega Adventure is a custom Pokémon game that retains the regular storyline of all Pokémon games, which is the journey of the protagonist to become a Pokémon champion.
This game features a region called Akito, where you can roam and explore to catch hundreds of Pokémon creatures and battling them with others.
You have 3 starter Pokémon to choose: Squirtle, Charmander, and Bulbasaur.
Features:
- There are 721 creatures that you can catch in this game.
- You can also use mega stones for Mega Evolution.
- Some Pocket Monsters from Generation VII are available.
- You can also get Mystery Gifts in this game.
- You can explore the region called Akito to pave your way to become a Pokémon champion.
Pokémon Ash Gray
Pokémon Ash Gray is the ROM hack of the FireRed version, which faithfully follows the season 1 anime series.
Thus, you can find plenty of Pokémon creatures that are featured in the anime version, and additionally, some newer monsters as well.
The graphics are still very much the same as the graphics of FireRed on GBA.
Features:
- It has monsters that you can catch from season 1 anime series, along with new creatures.
- You will play as Ash, following the storyline of season 1 anime series in this game.
- There are also contents that are included from the banned episodes of the anime series.
- It includes only original Pokémon without any fake creatures.
- You can play the side story titled Holiday Hi-Jynx in this game.
Pokémon Blazed Glazed
Pokémon Blazed Glazed is the ROM hack of the Emerald version, applying various improvements to make the Emerald version even better to play.
It is available for the Game Boy Advance system. In this game, you can expect to see new moves that are available from Generation IV to Generation VI, as well as new creatures, stats, and other changes.
Features:
- It changes all the move sets and rosters from the Emerald version.
- This hacked version gives you the new stats for your pocket monsters.
- There are also new creatures being added, which are not available in the original Emerald version.
- The wild distributions are altered, so you can see quite a bit of changes for wild creatures in this game.
- It also has move-pool additions and some typing changes.
Pokémon Dark Rising
Pokémon Dark Rising is the ROM hack of the FireRed version, which you can play on the GBA system.
In this game, you can find 386 of creatures that you can catch and battle with, and you can also explore the regions of Kanto, Johto, Unova, Sinnoh, and Hoenn.
This ROM hack was released alongside the Kaizo Version.
Features:
- It has moves that are included from the newer generation Pokémon releases.
- You can get up to 8 badges in this game, with each gym leader having their own unique Pokémon for you to battle.
- Egg moves can be learned by leveling up instead of breeding.
- You can also add more experience points in your gameplay by battling Nurse Joy in the Pokémon Center.
- There are DW abilities that you can learn in this game, such as Drizzle Poliwag, Speed Boost Torchic, and more.
Pokémon Light Platinum
Pokémon Light Platinum is the GBA ROM hack that is made from the Ruby version, and it has been completed and fixed of bugs.
In other words, you can play this game without any problems and without worrying about bugs and glitches.
It can give you the complete experience that is better than the original Ruby version of the game.
There are plenty of improvements you can enjoy in this game.
Features:
- You can explore the new region called ZHERY.
- In this game, you can meet with the new leads, new Elite Four, and new rivals.
- You can find creatures from all regions in this game, and you can also catch legendary creatures from the Ruby version.
- The game has new sprites, new events, and new tiles.
- It has the Pokémon World Championship as the final event.
Pokémon Adventure Red Chapter
Pokémon Adventure Red Chapter is the ROM hack of the FireRed version for the GBA system, which follows closely the Pokémon Adventure manga.
Aside from following the storyline of the Pokémon Adventure manga, it also has updated graphics, and it has some events changed to make them longer.
It incorporates the original Red, Blue, Yellow, and Green version.
Features:
- You can explore new regions in this game, with updated graphics and music.
- You can increase your level up to level 255.
- This game also has mega evolution, battle bond, and fusion Pokémon.
- It has the cycling day and night system.
- It allows you to customize your characters along with mugshots.
Pokémon Sage
Pokémon Sage is the fan-made game that is made from the RPG Maker XP engine, providing you the fan-made original gameplay involving Pokémon creatures.
This game can be played as a Windows game, and it gives you the original experience in the world of Pokémon.
You can play the demo from the official page.
Features:
- It uses the RPG Maker XP engine along with Pokémon Essentials.
- The game is playable on Windows, with very low minimum requirements.
- It has a set of new fan-made Pokémon creatures that you can catch in this game.
- You can play with original characters, Pokémon, and locations in this game.
- The demo is available for you to play, which allows you to get up to the third badge.
Pokémon FireRed: Rocket Edition
Have you ever wondered how it will be to play as Team Rocket? In Pokémon FireRed: Rocket Edition, you can do it.
This ROM hack of FireRed gives you the opportunity to play as Team Rocket.
Yes, one of the villains in the Pokémon series.
Of course, as Team Rocket, you will be able to wreak havoc throughout the entire game and enjoy doing so.
Features:
- Instead of playing as the protagonist, you will play as the villain in this game, which is Team Rocket.
- This game is the ROM hack of the FireRed version on the GBA.
- You will experience the entire storyline in the perspective of Team Rocket.
- You can steal Pokémon creatures from every trainer in this game.
- You can battle popular characters and uncover the true story behind Red’s adventure.
Pokémon Uranium
Pokémon Uranium is a unique fan-made Pokémon game built with Pokémon Essentials on the RPG Maker XP engine.
So, this game can be played on your Windows PC by installing it just like any other games.
In this game, you can find 166 new Pokémon and 34 Pokémon creatures available in the main series.
New skills and move-sets are also introduced.
Features:
- You can play this game on Windows PC.
- New pocket monsters available in this game include Dunseraph, Dunsparce, Metalynx, Yatagaryu, and more.
- You can also use various moves in this game, such as Absorb, Double Hit, Dragon Claw, and many more.
- Various abilities are also available, including Anticipation, Natural Cure, Bad Dreams, and more.
- Lots of items you can find in this game, such as Arbokite, Amulet Coin, Big Root, Nugget, and many more.
Pokémon Planet
Pokémon Planet is the free-to-play MMORPG with the Pokémon theme, which you can play online on your browsers.
In this game, you will take on an adventure as a trainer that has the aspiration to become a Pokémon champion.
Of course, you will play alongside other online players, and you can also battle them online.
You don’t need to download any software to play this game.
Features:
- You can catch, train, and evolve hundreds of creatures in this game.
- You can play this game online with your friends without spending any money for anything.
- You can create clans with other trainers to determine the best trainers among you.
- Compared to the regular Pokémon games, you can explore the areas that are big and wide in this game.
- You can play this game on any browser without having to install anything.
Pokémon Phoenix Rising
Pokémon Phoenix Rising is the fan-made game that is made with the RPG Maker XP engine along with Pokémon Essentials, giving you the new experience of adventure in the world full of pocket monsters.
It features the storyline that can branch based on the choices that you make throughout the game.
Also, it still uses the traditional RPG style as common in the official releases.
Features:
- You can explore the region called Hawthorne in this game, where there are plenty of pocket monsters to catch and train.
- The storyline is full of choices that you can make, giving you different branches in the story.
- You can perform Mega Evolution for your Pokémon creatures in this game.
- Aside from regular pocket monsters, there are also relic Pokémon creatures you can catch in this game.
- It offers rich characters with moral choices during the gameplay.
Pokémon Showdown
Pokémon Showdown is the Pokémon-themed battle simulator game that you can play online.
You can play this game either via your browser, or you can install this game directly on your computer.
In this game, you can choose Pokémon characters and battle other characters with other online players.
Features:
- You can choose various Pokémon characters and battle with others in this online battle simulator.
- The battles are fully animated, so you can enjoy each battle in this game.
- You can build your own team, or you can choose the randomly generated team.
- It is free to play, and you can play it on your browser or install it on your computer.
- You can find plenty of Pokémon creatures from different generations in this game.
Pokémon MMO 3D
Pokémon MMO 3D is a free MMO game that you can play on your computer, featuring 3D Pokémon, world, and character models.
In this game, you will meet with other trainers from all over the world to explore the new region.
You can catch plenty of pocket monsters in this game, as well as battle other trainers in real time.
Features:
- You can play this game completely for free, and the game is available for Windows, Mac, and Linux.
- You can play this game with other trainers all over the world and explore the new 3D Pokémon-themed world.
- You can catch plenty of creatures in this game and battle them with other trainers.
- There are plenty of Easter eggs hidden in the game, which you can find as you explore the vast world areas in this game.
- It features real-time battles between you and other players.
Pokémon Revolution Online
Pokémon Revolution Online is the online Pokémon game that you can play on your devices, featuring 2D graphics.
The game is available for multiple platforms, including desktop (Mac, Windows, Linux) and mobile devices (Android).
It allows you to start the journey of becoming a Pokémon master with other online players from around the world.
Features:
- It is an online game that offers competitive player vs. player gameplay elements.
- You can explore multiple new regions in this game, with in-game bosses spread all around them.
- You can communicate with other players from within the game and establish your own community.
- There are various events that you can participate in the game from time to time.
- It also offers you the storyline that you can enjoy along the way.
Pokémon Mega Power
Pokémon Mega Power is the GBA ROM hack of the Emerald version, featuring plenty of improvements from the original version.
In this game, you can explore some new regions, such as Ivara, Sevii Islands, and Lande, as well as meet with new characters.
It features pocket monsters from up to Generation VII. The graphics are still mostly the same as the original Emerald version.
Features:
- It has its own storyline involving the protagonist’s attempt to evolve a Pokémon without having to use mega stones.
- You can explore new regions and meet with new characters in this game.
- You can choose between male and female for your protagonist.
- The Pokémon selection is expanded to include Generation IV to Generation VII.
- It also includes some new tiles in the game.
Pokémon Emerald Kaizo
Pokémon Emerald Kaizo is the ROM hack of the Emerald version specifically designed for those looking for more challenges.
This ROM hack offers you the highest difficulty level that will guarantee to give you more challenges in playing this game.
The sole purpose of the game is to make the Emerald version even more difficult to play.
Features:
- All aspects of the game have been changed to make it more difficult to play.
- When you battle the other trainers in this game, you can feel that the battles are becoming even more difficult to win as you go along.
- There are 386 Pokémon creatures that you can find in this game.
- Some creatures are only available post games, meaning that you can’t catch them unless you’ve completed the game.
- The gym leaders will give you even more challenges with more powerful Pokémon you need to defeat.
Pokémon Flora Sky
Pokémon Flora Sky is a ROM hack of the Emerald version, which is 100% completed.
It means that you can play the game from start to finish without having to wait for any more updates.
The game uses the graphics and most aspects of the Emerald version, but with certain improvements in various aspects of the game, such as new Pokémon creatures that you can catch.
Features:
- It includes Pokémon creatures available in Generation IV and V.
- You can play a new storyline in this game, as well as new events for the legendary Pokémon.
- The creatures look better in this ROM hack because the sprites have been improved.
- You can also find new moves, new maps, new mini games, and more.
- New character is also available as the protagonist of this game.
Pokémon Gaia
As the ROM hack of the FireRed version on the GBA system, Pokémon Gaia delivers various new improvements that you can enjoy when playing this game.
In this game, you will explore the region called Orbtrus, which is the region that has a rich history.
Your character will follow the storyline that will uncover the history behind this region along with your adventure.
Features:
- You can find and catch Pokémon creatures usually available in regions of Kanto, Unova, Johto, Kalos, Hoenn, and Sinnoh.
- It is jam-packed with new moves, modern abilities, and modern items.
- It has the updated sprites for Pokémon creatures, trainers, Overworld, and more.
- It has underwater maps that you can dive into.
- It has original songs that you can enjoy throughout the game.
Conclusion
These are the best Pokémon ROM hacks that you can play on various platforms.
Whether you want to play it on the Nintendo system, emulator, browser, computer, or mobile device, you can find the game that fits with your preferences.
These hacked Pokémon games will offer the adventure and gameplay style that you would never experience on the regular releases.
So, you should try these games. Find the one that you like and start playing. Happy gaming!
Related Posts:
Regardless of whether you love or hate the newer games, one thing is certain: we want more.
Whether you’re looking for something featuring every single Pokémon ever made, or an online game where you can catch and train Pokémon together with friends, there are plenty of ROM hacks and fan games offering just that.
Actually with so many around, it can be hard to choose the right one. And you never know whether you’re missing something amazing. It’s not like there’s some massive list covering all the best fan games in the Poké community… well, unless you count this one!
To help you find your next custom Pokémon adventure, I’ve done all the research for you. Take a look and see what grabs your attention.
40. Pokémon TRE: Team Rocket Edition
Ever since I was a child making my way through my first playthrough of Pokémon Crystal, I was fascinated with playing as one of the bad guys – even if it was a measly grunt.
If playing as a dastardly villain sounds like fun to you too, you can give this Pokémon Red hack a shot.
Team Rocket Leader Giovanni is on the lookout for a successor, and the competition is down to you and your sibling, two novice Team Rocket members.
You’ll have to go through an evil Pokémon adventure, beating Gym Leaders and eventually the Elite IV, to prove your worth.
It’s a great idea with a questionable execution, but it’s worth a try if you’re into the premise!
39. Pokémon Eclipse RPG
Another longtime childhood fantasy of mine was playing Pokémon together with friends.
I mean sure, you could always connect two GBAs together to battle and trade.
But I mean actually questing and catching Pokémon on the field with your peeps.
While Nintendo seems reticent to give Pokémon the online capacities it deserves, many fan projects like Pokémon Eclipse RPG offer exciting alternatives to the official games.
Just register and play in your browser. Maybe this will be the online Pokémon adventure to finally hook you.
Though if it doesn’t, keep reading!
38. Pokémon Emerald Kaizo
One of the age-old ways of breathing new life into an older game you’ve already played a couple of times is to make it incredibly hard.
That’s what Pokémon Emerald Kaizo is here for.
Creator SinisterHoodedFigure is famous for making great Kaizo(ultra-hard) versions of classic Pokémon games, and this Pokémon Emerald hack is easily the best.
The trainers are more aggressive, and their teams are stronger. But that’s only the tip of the iceberg.
Prepare to face some extra-treacherous routes, and beware of increased ambushes by Team Magma and Team Aqua.
If you’re up to the challenge, this won’t disappoint.
37. Pokémon Pink
One of the most significant improvements introduced with Gen II was letting you choose your gender at the start of the game.
Pokémon Pink is a ROM hack of Blue that lets you venture through Kanto as Kris, the female protagonist from Pokémon Crystal, providing more representation and a new twist.
Jigglypuff, Pikachu, and Vulpix also replace the original starters, and the game features the newer Dark, Steel, and Fairy types.
36. Pokémon Polished Crystal
Speaking of Kris, Pokémon Crystal was the first Pocket Monster game I ever played. And I still look back on it fondly.
If you’re like me and want to re-experience the charm of gen 2, I recommend Pokémon Polished Crystal.
This ROM hack improves the base Pokémon Crystal game by making all 251 Pokémon catchable, introducing all new types up to Fairy, and even including the new Eeveelutions not originally present in those games.
If you like a challenge, I suggest you play it in the new Nuzlocke Mode.
35. Pokémon TPP (Red Anniversary)
Another minor improvement on one of the older Pokémon titles is Pokémon TPP (Red Anniversary), made in 2015 to commemorate the worldwide phenomenon that was Twitch Plays Pokémon the previous year.
This interesting Twitch channel lets players vote on commands to input into the game, requiring collaboration to lead the player character to become a Pokémon Master.
The original Pokémon Red took around 16 days to complete, but this beefed-up version with all 151 Pokémon available and stronger trainers made the stream last almost 40 days straight.
34. Pokémon Orange
Islands, archipelagos, and other places where people’s lives are directly intertwined with the sea are the most exciting to explore.
The same goes for the Orange Islands, part of the Orange Archipelago, which is located near Kanto in the Pokémon World.
Pokémon Orange is a Crystal ROM hack that lets you explore and discover the wonders of this region, as a kid from Valencia Island.
Tasked by Professor Samson Oak to bring him the mysterious GS Ball, you’ll catch Pokémon, fight baddies like Team Rocket, and enjoy the sea breeze.
33. Pokémon Little Cup Red
Placing semi-arbitrary limitations on Pokémon battles is one of the best ways to keep things interesting, rather than just riding Scizor and Salamence to victory.
Pokémon Little Cup Red is built on that idea, but extends it to the entire game, reducing every critter in the game to level 5 and replacing any that didn’t have an “infant form” with a similar creature.
This title will force you into a hardcore strategy game, as your Pokémon can’t win EXP and gain levels, or anything of the sort.
It’s a great challenge. But it’s not impossible, thanks to some slight balance changes and a massive extinction of Zubat in caves.
32. Pokémon Mega Adventure
One of the most popular Pokémon fan games in recent memory is Pokémon Mega Adventure, a heavily combat-focused experience that’ll put your Pokémon Trainer skills to the test.
It has minimal story, but it makes up for it with a massive roster of 721 Pokémon, working Mega Evolutions, and a beautiful graphical style based on gen 3 titles.
The Akito Region is also a beautiful place to explore, with a couple of jaw-dropping places that’ll leave you wanting more.
31. Pokémon Black (GEN I ROM Hack)
Easily the most unusual entry in our list, and one of the most bizarre overall, has to be Pokémon Black.
And to clarify, this is the gen I ROM hack, not to be confused with the official game of the same name.
This interesting hack was inspired by one of the first creepypasta stories ever, following a guy who buys a bootleg “Pokémon Black” GBC cartridge from a garage sale.
Little did he know of the dark secrets hidden within.
You won’t be reaching the Elite IV in this ROM hack. But it’s terrific if you’re looking for something unsettling or just odd.
30. Pokémon Ash Gray
For something less dark, let’s take a look at a Pokémon FireRed ROM hack that lets you relive Ash Ketchum’s anime adventure in game form.
This follows the anime’s story up to the Orange Islands, and rewards you for playing with his exact team setup whenever possible, though you don’t necessarily have to do it.
Many story events are waiting for you all around the region, which will remind you of different anime episodes, complete with the same characters and locales.
Also it replaces HMs with tools that Ash can carry in his backpack, rather than wasting party space on an HM slave.
29. Pokémon Flora Sky Story
Legendary Pokémon tend to be giant bad-ass OP beasts.
But what if we had something cuter?
Pokémon Flora Sky Story is an Emerald ROM hack featuring the adorable Shaymin as the main Legendary critter, hence the name.
In this game, you’ll be helping Shaymin stop Groudon and Kyogre from destroying the world.
This hack includes 386 total Pokémon, featuring everyone from the fourth and fifth generations.
There are also plenty of mini-games, daily events, and a day/night system to keep things fresh.
28. Pokémon MMO 3D
As a Pokémon and MMO fan, few things can get me more excited than connecting online with friends (or a bunch of strangers) to explore the world of pocket monsters together.
Many fan games are offering just that.
But Pokémon MMO 3D has them all beat in the graphics department. After all, it’s the only one to offer fully 3D graphics – and pretty good ones to boot.
Real-time battles are also a new concept that makes combat more dynamic, innovating rather than rehashing the same concept from the original games (like Nintendo does).
It gets updated pretty regularly, and you won’t have trouble finding someone to battle within seconds of logging on. Give it a try and see what you think!
27. Pokémon Glazed
At some point in our lives, we’ve all wished to the stars to bring the magic of Pokémon to our own, not-so-colorful world.
Well that’s exactly what’s begun to happen in Pokémon Glazed.
Regrettably, it wasn’t as awesome as we expected. And now you must adventure through the Tunod region in a bid to stop the impending disaster of dimensional collision.
This Emerald ROM hack also includes both Johto and the mysterious Rankor region, where you’ll find Pokémon from all around Sinnoh, Unova, and Kalos.
26. Pokémon Blazed Glazed
If you liked Glazed, you should consider Pokémon Blazed Glazed as well.
This fork of the original Pokémon Glazed adds a lot. Like new moves from recent generations that were missing from Glazed.
It also overhauls rival trainer teams and pokémon movesets, aiming to provide a better learning curve.
It also adds two new Eeveelutions – Def-Eevee and Off-Eevee. They’re Eevee’s first evolution, and from there, they branch out into the rest of the well-loved critters.
Both hacks are currently being worked on and updated, so it’s up to you to choose which you like the best (or try playing both!)
25. Pokémon Saffron
Our next entry is the gorgeous-looking Pokémon Saffron, set in the Azira region during an event known as the “Great Migration”.
Once every decade, migrating Pokémon from all over the world pass through Azira at the same time, making it the most biodiverse place on the planet.
And giving Pokémon researchers like Professor Oak a lot to study.
As expected, he’ll need help in his endeavor.
So he recruits you, a local youth eager to set out on their Pokémon adventure. Isn’t that always the story?
South America heavily influences the region, and the Fakemon in the area & the story reflect its roots.
24. Pokémon Snakewood
If you liked the creepy nature of Pokémon Black, but would rather play a full game than an interactive horror story, Pokémon Snakewood is here to please.
This Ruby ROM hack takes place some years after the original Gen III storyline.
A lot has happened in just a few years – including a zombie apocalypse.
You’ll play as the younger sibling of the original main character, on a quest to find out their whereabouts and fight the spreading horror.
Keeping up with the decay theme, your starter options are the poisonous Paras, Koffing, and Baltoy.
There are also many new Fakemon to catch, new evolutions, and zombified versions of classic ‘mons.
23. Pokémon Dark Rising
If you’re the kind of person that can’t help but get sucked into incredibly long sagas like Game of Thrones or One Piece, you’ll fall prey to Pokémon Dark Rising in no time.
This fangame is heavily narrative-driven, and with time it has become the most extensive fan-made saga in the Pokémon universe.
It includes Dark Rising, Dark Rising 2, and Dark Rising: Order Destroyed.
While the story is fantastic, the gameplay doesn’t stay behind.
You’ll see Pokémon from most generations throughout your journey, and the addition of “Dream World” abilities is pretty neat.
22. Pokémon Gaia
I’ve always been interested in history and archaeology.
Places from times past are such a joy, which is why I love Pokémon Gaia.
This fantastic FireRed hack takes place in the storied region of Orbtus.
As the ancient seat of a long-gone civilization, the region is densely filled with hidden caves and ruined temples full of relics and mystery.
Other than the usual improvements like the addition of Fairy-type ‘mons, the game also features an in-battle Mega Evolution system, and lots of custom assets that set it apart from other hacks.
21. Pokémon Light Platinum
One of the single most famous GBA-era hacks is Pokémon Light Platinum, a modification of the original Pokémon Ruby.
It’s vaguely based on Pokémon Platinum for the DS. Which is obvious since Dialga, Palkia, Giratina, and Arceus are the centerpieces of the story.
The game overhauls the Pokémon League by replacing all Gym Leaders and the Elite IV. A new concept for sure.
It also adds a Pokémon World Championship event after completing the League.
20. Pokémon Clover
The next hack is not for the thin-skinned. It includes some of the most offensive and politically incorrect jokes and references you’ll find in a Pokémon game.
It’s to be expected, considering this ROM hack of FireRed is based on the memes and culture of the infamous 4chan Pokémon imageboard.
In fact, the game is made by several users of the site’s / vp / board – the one dedicated to Pokémon.
If that sounds like your kind of thing, well I can’t recommend it enough.
With over 386 original fakemon and almost 70 hours of content to go through, this is a total blast.
19. Pokémon Fire Ash
We’ve already covered Pokémon AshGray, which let you play as Ash up to the Orange Islands.
But what lies beyond that for our Pallet Town boy?
If you wish to find out, you should play Pokémon Fire Ash.
This follows our anime protagonist on a massive adventure from Kanto to the Alola Region, including the Orange Islands and even the Battle Frontier.
With a staggering amount of over 50 gyms and over 800 different critters to catch, this will keep you hooked for days (read: months).
18. Pokémon Adventure Red
The Pokémon anime is amazing.
But there’s a wealth of Pokémon manga and novels released in Japan every year, and the Pokémon Adventures manga series is one of the best.
This FireRed hack endeavors to offer players a chance to play through its storyline, following protagonist Red’s journey from Pallet Town to the rest of the world.
It includes characters, scenes, and battles taken straight from the manga, which is pretty good.
With several playable characters, different outfits, a day/night cycle, and overhauled visuals, Pokémon Adventure Red is almost too good to be true.
17. Pokémon Theta Emerald RENEV
Pokémon ROM hack creators tend to pronounce their hacks “complete”, then reappear the next year with a new massive update because their OCD couldn’t let them ignore any shortcomings.
In the case of Pokémon Theta Emerald, there have been three entire releases.
The original, the EX version, and now the RENEV version.
This latest installment showcases the most extensive Pokémon roster so far, along with new moves and features.
There’s a lot to talk about in this Pokémon Emerald ROM hack.
But my favorite aspect has to be the possibility of fusing pokémon, and the new forms for critters like Rotom and Deoxys.
16. Pokémon Sage
A lot of the most fantastic fan games in existence are, regrettably, still incomplete.
That’s the case with Pokémon Sage. But don’t let that keep you from trying their 10h+ demo.
This game takes place in the Urobos region, heavily influenced by Latin America.
The environments, lore, and even new Pokémon have clear roots in these culturally rich lands.
The game uses gen 5 as a base, but includes some new twists like Mega Evolutions.
15. PokeMMO
PokeMMO is just one of many Pokémon-based Massive Multiplayer Online games, letting players enjoy Pokémon Black, Emerald, and FireRed in the company of their peeps.
Of course, there’s online PVP. So you can show the world who’s boss if you need to.
An extensive collection of clothes and accessories is also available to make your character look super fly.
It gets regular updates, and there’s always someone to play with thanks to its enormous popularity.
Plus, the name pretty much gives it all away. If you’re into MMOs and into Pokémon, give this a whirl.
14. Pokémon Clockwork
Pokémon Clockwork is a fan game set in the mysterious Rosari region.
It’s full of diverse, breathtaking landscapes and many quests to boot.
The shady Team Epsilon is, as you’d expect, planning on using some ancient power for their benefit.
It’s up to you to stop their wrongdoing and save the Rosari region.
Other than that, you’ll get to catch pokémon from the first four generations and use them to beat a regular-size Pokémon League.
Altogether it’s around 40 hours of pure pokéfun.
13. Pokémon Godra
Customization is one thing Nintendo and Game Freak have focused on improving the most with the last couple of official releases.
Still, they never go past the aesthetic and into the gameplay.
Pokémon Godra revolves around the idea of choice, introducing several more RPG elements and a branching storyline depending on the decisions you make as you engage with the Godra region’s conflicts.
You can join the military, become a Safari Zone Warden, or even climb to the very top and enter the Elite IV.
Plus, you get a massive roster of 128 starters to choose from.
That’s almost as many as gen 1’s total Pokémon!
12. Pokémon FireRed: Rocket Edition
We started off our list with Pokémon TRE, a Gen I hack that let you play as a member of Team Rocket.
While that game is pretty good on its own, it isn’t the best execution of the “play as the villains” concept.
That would be Pokémon FireRed: Rocket Edition, a FireRed ROM hack with several higher degrees of complexity.
In this hack, you’ll see the seedy underbelly of the Kanto region and the thriving crime scene beneath the surface.
Sociopathic scientists and corrupt Gym Leaders are only some of the awful people you’ll get a chance to meet as you uncover the “true story” running parallel to Red’s original adventure.
And yes, you’re allowed to steal as many Pokémon as you wish.
11. Pokémon Planet
Yet another Pokémon MMORPG enters the fray, bringing with it a lot of the same charm features other options, but with a much larger scope.
The game aims to make all regions available for exploration, letting you catch critters from all generations in their natural habitat.
You can also participate in multiplayer events with friends or other random Trainers just like you.
You can play this game in your browser after a quick registration, so don’t pass it by without taking a closer look.
10. Pokémon Uranium
One of the most notorious Pokémon fan games is Pokémon Uranium, which got a lot of its fame from the intense campaign launched by Nintendo to erase it from existence.
Luckily, nothing ever truly disappears from the Internet.
It’s actually become much easier to get a hold of it.
With the graphics style of Gen IV and a total of 190 critters, including several new Fakemon and an all-star roster of the best official’ mons, Pokémon Uranium is one of the most polished and complete fan games you can play.
Other than that, it’s a pretty standard Pokémon adventure that’ll take you through the Tandor region, beating eight Gyms. Classic stuff we all know and love.
9. Pokémon Orange Islands
My all-time favorite FireRed hack is Pokémon Orange Islands, which follows Ash’s adventure through the Orange Archipelago, as seen on the anime series.
While many other fan creations explore this period in Ash’s life, none do so with as much love and attention to detail as Pokémon Orange Islands.
Believe me, there’s nothing quite like Team Rocket in this game.
While the game includes only the first 151 Pokémon, it does feature the updated type chart and Physical/Special/Status split.
It’s time to show the Orange Island’s four resident Gym Leaders who’s boss.
8. Pokémon Reborn
Another remarkably famous fan game is Pokémon Reborn, featuring Pokémon up to gen 7.
After picking from 21 starters, you’ll enter the Reborn region.
Here crime runs rampant, and society has fallen into disarray. Will you be the hero to bring peace to these lands?
This hack’s most unique aspect has to be the Field Effects present in most areas, which take the degree of strategics needed to win Pokémon battles up a notch.
It also features music from incredible composer GlitchxCity, which is simply fantastic and elevates the game to new heights.
7. Pokémon Rejuvenation
With the success of Pokémon Reborn came new inspiration and motivation for the team behind it to work on something new.
After a while, we got Pokémon Rejuvenation.
Set in the region of Aevium, the game showcases the local efforts to rebuild and improve after a terrible natural disaster devastated the area some years ago.
In this adventure you’ll have to take up arms – or rather, Pokémon – to protect your people and stop the sinister Team Xen from plunging the region back into chaos.
While the game looks just like gen 3, which I love, it includes Pokémon up to gen 7.
6. Pokémon Brown (2014)
Pokémon Brown is a hack of the original Pokémon Red, allowing players to visit the industrialized region of Rijon.
The industrialization process has given rise to five new elemental types: Gas, Sound, Wood, Wind, and Abnormal.
There are 73 new Fakemon that thrive in the area on top of Kanto’s 151.
Pokémon Brown was one of the first-ever completed ROM hacks. So it’s arguably part of Pokémon ROM hack history at this point.
But ther eis actually a much-upgraded version released by the original creator in 2014, so that’s the best version to snag.
5. Pokémon Prism
One of the main reasons Pokémon Brown got updated in 2014 was to make it compatible with Pokémon Prism, the sequel.
Picking up where Pokémon Brown left off, the game drops you on the new region of Naljo.
But it also lets you come back to Rijon after you clear the Pokémon League.
Getting some strong gen 2 vibes here…
Easily the most interesting additions are some areas that can only be explored by Pokémon, putting you directly in control of your team in a way reminiscent of Pokémon Mystery Dungeon.
On top of the previous 225 Pokémon, there are 28 new ones only found in Naljo. Definitely a fan game everyone should try out.
4. Pokémon Showdown
If you’re into competitive play, I don’t have to explain what Pokémon Showdown is.
While not strictly a game, Pokémon Showdown probably has the largest playerbase. And is regarded as the best way to battle with random Trainers online.
What makes it so suitable for competitive play is that it follows tournament rules closely, and gives each Pokémon the same stats they have in the latest official game.
3. Pokémon Phoenix Rising
One of the most relevant Pokémon fan games nowadays is Phoenix Rising.
It takes place in the Hawthorne region, where you’ll be able to experience a relatively standard Pokémon adventure with a branching storyline depending on your narrative choices.
Besides making Pokémon a bit closer to a modern RPG, the game features new Mega Evolutions and even a new kind of critter – Relic Pokémon.
Relic Tyranitar is among the most bad-ass things I’ve seen in weeks.
If you’re interested, I recommend you give the development team a follow on their Twitter account. And keep an eye out for updates!
2. Pokémon Insurgence
I’ve spent years patiently waiting for Nintendo/Game Freak to get their act together and release a more “mature” Pokémon game for their older audiences.
Since that doesn’t seem like it’ll happen anytime soon, I’ve turned to fan games in my search for a gritty storyline – and that led me to Pokémon Insurgence.
Pokemon Glazed
I won’t spoil it.
But considering it involves cults and cruel experiments on Pokémon, you can look forward to a pretty dark narrative.
The game also introduces several new features such as Delta Pokémon, Armored Pokémon, in-depth character customization, and more.
1. Pokémon Revolution Online
It’s tough to pronounce the “best” Pokémon fan game, when there are so many great ones with different takes on what makes a Pokémon game fun.
Still, I can’t help but marvel at the polish and ambition put into Pokémon Revolution Online, which is both the best Pokémon fan game and the best Pokémon MMO.
Pokemon Rom Hack No Trade Evolution
Meet people, join or found a guild, and explore the regions of Kanto, Johto, Hoenn, and Sinnoh while training your Pokémon together.
There are also mini-games and plenty of extra activities to keep you entertained whenever you’re not training your Pokémon.
Plus, it’s entirely free to play. So give it a try, not much to lose and plenty of Pokéfun to gain!
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