Game Statistics

• Collect 151 pokémon.
• Trade between red and blue versions via the game link cable.
• Eight pokémon gym leaders.
• One game save file.
• Super Game Boy enhanced.

Game Design
Pokémon is not a traditional RPG in that it does not have a grand storyline. Instead in specializes in collecting and training pokémon. Wild pokémon can be found across the world in grassy areas. When a pokémon is confronted they can be caught and added to your PokéDEX or they can be fought and your pokémon will gain experience. Once a pokémon reaches a specific level it will acquire a new attack or evolve into a stronger pokémon. Each pokémon can have four different attacks at one time. There are 15 different types of pokémon attacks. They are based on 15 different "elements." Certain attacks are more effective on certain types of pokémon and some types of attacks are not effective at all. For example, a fire type attack will do more damage than usual against a grass type attack. Likewise, a grass type will do less damage that normal against a fire type pokémon. Also, some attacks will have no effect on certain pokémon. For example, a ground type attack will not harm a flying type pokémon. Six different pokémon can be carried at once. The goal of a pokémon trainer is to create a group of six pokémon that is balanced and has few weaknesses and to collect all 150 pokémon. The only way to collect all 150 pokémon is to trade with friends because in each version of pokémon there are only 139 pokémon that can be caught. Therefore each pokémon version contains eleven pokémon that are specific to that game only. Leave it up to Nintendo to provide yet another innovated method of multi-player handheld gaming.

Graphics
The graphics in Pokémon are very good when compared with other turn based RPGs on the Game Boy. The text size is adequate to read. Building and character look average in the outer-world map. However, the best graphical effects occur during the battle sequences. Each pokémon is well designed and is highly detailed. Many nice graphical effects occur when pokémon attack each other. One example is the screen waving effects during the ghost type attack nightshade. Overall the graphics are excellent for Game Boy standards.

Sound
The Music in Pokémon has its highs and lows. The music during the battles is great. However, music outside of battle sequences is not as great. You'll want to turn down the music when you're riding the bicycle. Each pokémon has its own roar. They are simple sound effects that are well done. Overall sound effects are well done but some of the music tracks are annoying.

Control
Pokémon uses a very simple control system. The control pad is used to navigate your character and navigate through menus. The A button is the action button used to hear people talk and confirm menu selections. The B button is used to cancel commands or backtrack. The start button activates the menu screen, which also pauses the game. The select button is used to organize items. The only major control issue is during menu selections. Some menus are very large and slow to navigate. This makes organizing your pokémon a very tiresome exercise.

Satisfaction
Anyone who gets involved in Pokémon will become addicted and want to train a great party of Pokémon. RPG fans will like this game because they have great control in leveling up and developing their pokémon. Others will enjoy this game because they can battle and trade pokémon with their friends.

Replay Value/Game Length
There is a ton of things to do in this game. Completing this game will take approximately 20 to 30 hours. However, if one chooses to level up their group of pokémon to level 100 and collect all 151 pokémon in the game they might spend anywhere from 100 to 200 hours playing the game.

Overall
Pokémon is a game that many may dismiss because it appeals to children. However, this game is an RPG with a lot of depth. Pokémon is one of the greatest gaming experiences on the Game Boy.

Game Design	9.6
Mechanics	9.0
Innovation	10
Originality	9.0
Extras	10
Depth	10
Graphics	9.0
Character/Animation	9.0
Environment	9.0
Framerate	9.0
Sound	8.0
Music	8.0
Sound FX/Voice	8.0
Control	7.7
During Play	8.0
Menus	7.0
Functionality	8.0
Satisfaction	9.0
Challenge	9.0
Fun-Factor	9.0
Replay Value/Game Length	10
Multiplayer	8.0
FINAL SCORE	8.8

Review by Player Guy Forever

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