Pokemon Emerald Version

 Game Boy Advance
User Score
8.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 883 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 761 out of 883
  2. Mixed: 78 out of 883
  3. Negative: 44 out of 883
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  1. Sudipto19
    May 4, 2020
    10
    This Was My First Ever Video Game. I Love This Game Because It Connects Me To Myself. An Exciting Storyline Along With A Brilliant Combination Of Pokémon. This Is My Favourite Game And Will Remain As Such Firever. I Still Remember My Best Bud Treecko Which Evolved Into My First And Most Nostalgic Sceptile. Handsdown! This Is The Best Game
  2. Melon_man
    Aug 2, 2021
    8
    The best Pokémon game on GBA. I've spent way too much time in the battle frontier.
  3. brawler795
    May 31, 2021
    10
    This is a quintessential pokemon game to play/own. It is the flagship gen 3 game and is a game I always like to replay to this day.
  4. IanG.
    Nov 2, 2005
    10
    Need to make new pokemon and places but it is really brilliant.
  5. SalvadorS.
    Aug 2, 2005
    10
    It's a pretty cool games because you could get both legendary pokemons.
  6. richardribeiro
    Nov 14, 2018
    10
    One of my favorite Pokémon games, with a incrible history. Bether than Fire Red or Life Green
  7. GlebanBC
    Mar 13, 2021
    10
    In my opinion it's best pokemon game ever! This game is temporally Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire, but with new animations and combines of both games. For example you can Solrock, which is exclusive for Ruby, and Seviper, which is exclusive for Sapphire, in one game! It also have a new pokemon Rayquaza!
  8. JackS.
    Jul 11, 2005
    10
    Best pokemon game ever!
  9. celtqy
    Jun 18, 2013
    9
    Great Pokemon game and especially great game for GBA.
    It had te biggest jump in graphics of all Pokemon titles (from the previous fugly and hideous GSC) and it would be stupid to do a remake of this one.
    Lots of different enviroments, contests, berry blenders it was definitely also the biggest improve in the gameplay with so much added stuff. Best Pokemon game for its time after the    Great Pokemon game and especially great game for GBA.
    It had te biggest jump in graphics of all Pokemon titles (from the previous fugly and hideous GSC) and it would be stupid to do a remake of this one.
    Lots of different enviroments, contests, berry blenders it was definitely also the biggest improve in the gameplay with so much added stuff.
    Best Pokemon game for its time after the original games.
    Also the third generation was the last generation that I liked (Pelipper) but that is very subjective.    … Expand
  10. guitarguy001
    Jan 9, 2014
    9
    This is game is basically what Platinum did for Gen IV, perfect it in every way. How this game has a only a 76 is beyond me. Emerald has more to do then Sapphire and Ruby, is more fun and just has more of everything. Being one of my favorite games on the GameBoy Advance, this is a game you don't want to miss.
  11. 55223Aufal
    Nov 19, 2014
    10
    This game was my childhood, its amazing, from every aspect of strategy and adventure. I highly recommend it to anyone who has never played it, and also for people who have played it before.
  12. Roman_Cohort
    Dec 10, 2014
    10
    This game Really Encourages you to train not just your favourite six pokemon, but to train all types. The gym battles are harsh as you move on so its recommended not to avoid opponents and wild pokemon. the old graphics are still good and I believe are the best in emerald. It does get confusing on where to go etc. But Getting the legendary pokemon rayquaza repays all the hard efforts youThis game Really Encourages you to train not just your favourite six pokemon, but to train all types. The gym battles are harsh as you move on so its recommended not to avoid opponents and wild pokemon. the old graphics are still good and I believe are the best in emerald. It does get confusing on where to go etc. But Getting the legendary pokemon rayquaza repays all the hard efforts you been through, plus makes legendary hunting easier-ish. I give it a 9.7, there can be a few improvements but are minor.… Expand
  13. Kiraki1120
    Nov 16, 2019
    9
    This game is great and it enhances a lot the previous Ruby Sapphire games with the addition of the Battle Frontier. The story was better than Ruby Sapphire and the post game was revolutionary, giving a lot more possibilities after finishing the main game.
  14. BasilZero
    Aug 13, 2014
    9
    Game: Pokemon Emerald
    Genre: RPG
    Developer: GameFreak/Nintendo System: GameBoy Advance (GBA) Total Score: 94/100 Value Score: 9.4/10 • Story: 9/10 • Characters: 10/10 • GamePlay: 10/10 • Graphics: 8/10 • Sound: 8/10 • Music: 10/10 • Length: 9/10 • Replay Value: 10/10 • Player Value: 10/10 Pros +Both Ruby and Sapphire story lines combined with a new twist +Consists of    Game: Pokemon Emerald
    Genre: RPG
    Developer: GameFreak/Nintendo
    System: GameBoy Advance (GBA)
    Total Score: 94/100
    Value Score: 9.4/10

    • Story: 9/10
    • Characters: 10/10
    • GamePlay: 10/10
    • Graphics: 8/10
    • Sound: 8/10
    • Music: 10/10
    • Length: 9/10
    • Replay Value: 10/10
    • Player Value: 10/10

    Pros
    +Both Ruby and Sapphire story lines combined with a new twist
    +Consists of several visual changes such as text to reflect off of FireRed/Leaf Green
    +Capability of transferring pokemon from FireRed/Leaf Green along with that the ability to transfer over tickets for ship travel via events
    +A lot of new options for post game such as the Battle Frontier which will several more hours
    +Rematch Mode remade and now enables rematches of Gym Leaders

    Cons
    -Night/Day mode still missing from 2nd gen
    -Some pokemon which appeared for the first time in Ruby and Sapphire do not appear at all in game    … Expand
  15. MopOfVirtue
    Nov 14, 2019
    9
    A solid improvement upon Ruby and Sapphire. Between the direction taken by the story, and the introduction of the Battle Frontier, this game adds plenty to the 3rd Generation of Pokémon.

    The game doesn't touch the heights of the 2nd Generation (Gold, Silver, Crystal), but it delivers one of the most enjoyable adventures in the series.
  16. Captain_Faramir
    Apr 1, 2017
    9
    9.7 - Along with Ruby and Sapphire, Emerald was among the very revolutionary Pokemon games, and is one of my favorites in the franchise. After beating the game there is still a lot to do since there are tons of legendaries to catch (and very difficult to catch), especially ones that cannot be caught in most of the games.
  17. Lost_Hero9
    May 7, 2012
    10
    My favorite Pokemon game of all time next to Crystal. Its a shame that Diamond/Pearl wasn't as good as this game. I'm not even going to get start on how bad Pokemon Black and White were. Anyway, Emerald version takes on a new story along with new parts of the Hoenn region. Some new, some what, animations into the series and a great treat after the Elite Four defeat. Emerald holds manyMy favorite Pokemon game of all time next to Crystal. Its a shame that Diamond/Pearl wasn't as good as this game. I'm not even going to get start on how bad Pokemon Black and White were. Anyway, Emerald version takes on a new story along with new parts of the Hoenn region. Some new, some what, animations into the series and a great treat after the Elite Four defeat. Emerald holds many memories in my heart and is one of the best Pokemon games I've played. It's my last favorite before it all when downhill.… Expand
  18. Jake_
    May 28, 2013
    10
    What isn't there to love about this title? My favorite GBA game of all time and my second favorite Pokemon game (After Platinum). I must have played through this game at LEAST 10 times. A timeless classic.
  19. Plasmaneedle
    Oct 20, 2013
    9
    Tons of content, tons of replay value, tons of fun. Its only flaw is that it isn't very different from previous Pokémon games but it is still a great game worth buying.
  20. iamkushank
    Oct 27, 2017
    10
    For me, this game is a definite 10. This was the very first Pokemon game I had ever played and because of this game, I started playing other Pokemon games. The graphics for this game was very good for its time. I really love the top view style of the game with chibi characters. All the Pokemon were creatively designed. Also, loved the story on this game. The characters are loveable. IFor me, this game is a definite 10. This was the very first Pokemon game I had ever played and because of this game, I started playing other Pokemon games. The graphics for this game was very good for its time. I really love the top view style of the game with chibi characters. All the Pokemon were creatively designed. Also, loved the story on this game. The characters are loveable. I always play this game as a boy and I really love the relationship that is shown between the characters, especially with May.… Expand
  21. k1t3
    Dec 2, 2017
    9
    Amazing game. Not necessarily a "true" RPG experience but still, I have beat it almost 5 times and I still find and learn new things in this amazing franchise. There is a lot to do especially post-game.
  22. Abbsa
    Mar 23, 2015
    10
    I remember so much from this game from the first moments when you are in a moving truck to the moment I found Rayquaza in that tower and forgot to save before, failed and then saved -.- i was not a very smart kid.
  23. PithHelmet
    May 31, 2012
    10
    The last great Pokémon game. The third generation added a unique style to Pokémon never seen before. It felt very original and the game world atmosphere in Hoenn felt phenomenal. After Pokémon Emerald, everything went downhill. But this masterpiece still remains.
  24. Steeldude
    Oct 13, 2014
    9
    Hoenn is the best region in terms of variety and is really fun to traverse through. Gym leaders are no pushovers and the game proves to be decently challenging. The lack of post-game (I don't like BF) is sad, but this game definitely does not disappoint in other areas.
  25. Signas501
    Apr 3, 2015
    10
    Pokémon Emerald is the third release for generation 3, better sprites, more pokemon locations, and patching bits of the music. The game still takes place on Hoenn, protagonists being May, (Sapphire) and Brendan, (Ruby) still keeping both of the teams, Aqua and magma to fight between the legendary Kyogre and Groundon.
  26. Sausage22
    Nov 7, 2017
    9
    The definitive version of 3rd gen games, it adds some post game gimmics and changes plot a little. It's really the same game, but it's still a great one, so if you never played Ruby and Sapphire, give it a try.
  27. majoras_wrath
    Aug 1, 2018
    9
    personally,this game is my favorite mainline pokemon game today because of the unique pokemon of hoenn and the EVs and IVs mechanic was updated to include better customisation of pokemon stats and also secret bases are awesome. also while still being simple,the story was more detailed and a bit more epic then previous entries. with all of the good things i said about this game i have topersonally,this game is my favorite mainline pokemon game today because of the unique pokemon of hoenn and the EVs and IVs mechanic was updated to include better customisation of pokemon stats and also secret bases are awesome. also while still being simple,the story was more detailed and a bit more epic then previous entries. with all of the good things i said about this game i have to say one bad thing and it that the game is pretty slow like ruby and sapphire but this is a normal thing for pokemon games.last thing i wanna say is that i didn't play ruby or sapphire just this game and all the things i said about them are only based around gameplay i watched.… Expand
  28. Wolfie1987
    Mar 24, 2014
    10
    The best Pokémon game for the Game Boy/Game Boy Colour/Game Boy Advance. Once again the critics don't know jack, there's a huge amount of content, it's polished to the max, 76/100? Really? For shame. These are the same people who would destroy this game if too many changes were made, "oh it doesn't feel/play like Pokémon anymore".
  29. Jipa
    Jul 3, 2014
    9
    Green is my favorite color. Rayquaza is the strongest out of the three. Pokemon emerald had awesome Pokemon. I like Wallace was better cause... It was easier? I don't know. And hoenn is my favorite region. I don't know why many people don't like it. (Euro Gamer) I don't care if its similar it had new things :D
  30. kiank
    Jan 7, 2018
    9
    Emerald version was a great pokemon game that helped define my childhood. I remember catching my Rayquaza and this being the first pokemon game that I completed. This helped spark a childhood filled with pokemon and it will be one of my most cherished game.
  31. Manoel20053
    Dec 29, 2017
    10
    Jogo muito bom, os pokemons dessa geração são (MAIORIA) muito criativos, tem boas batalhas de ginásio e e uma história divertida, sem falar dos diversos personagens e vilões, minha nota 10.
  32. Matias8654
    Jun 1, 2018
    10
    Mi Pokemon favorito, ya no se cuantas veces lo he jugado pero es sencillamente perfecto, me gustaría verlo como remake en la nintendo switch o en el 3Ds como paso con las otras versiones
  33. Thebulldog03
    Jun 9, 2018
    10
    This game was my First ever POKèMON Game, so I maybe just think it is the best POKèMON Game because of Nostalgia, but it Looks very good to this day and adds soooooooooo much more to Ruby and sapphire Like the battle frontier, the legendaries, the story etc.
  34. JamesR.
    Jan 10, 2006
    10
    This games is awesome. You find more pokemon in this game than any other pokemon game ever made. I wish that I owned one. I played my friends game and that's when i wanted one for my own. I won't get mine until next month. That's my comments and desire.
  35. DarkEnergon
    Dec 31, 2011
    10
    I may be somewhat biased because this was my first Pokemon game, but Emerald is simply amazing, admittedly it's set in the same region as Ruby/Sapphire and has all the same Pokemon, but there are plenty of new features to keep you occupied, plus the Pokemon available to catch in-game are the coolest of the region, which is always a plus, and of course, it sure is a lot prettier than itsI may be somewhat biased because this was my first Pokemon game, but Emerald is simply amazing, admittedly it's set in the same region as Ruby/Sapphire and has all the same Pokemon, but there are plenty of new features to keep you occupied, plus the Pokemon available to catch in-game are the coolest of the region, which is always a plus, and of course, it sure is a lot prettier than its predecessors. (Oh yeah, its also a completely different story?)… Expand
  36. Zilcell
    Nov 8, 2011
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This enhanced version of Pokemon Ruby and Sapphire is incredibly fun. This time you go against both Team Aqua and Team Magma, and you'll need Rayquaza to do it.… Expand
  37. Zegilgamesh
    Dec 29, 2012
    8
    Pokemon is a game that always follows a formula. But what a perfect formula. Emerald, in retrospect, is the best Pokemon experience you can ask for, and is still pure entertainment.
  38. ZekromLikeTrain
    Jan 10, 2012
    10
    Favorite game! Has great content, and while it offers a lot of the same from Ruby and Sapphire, it still has enough new stuff to make it a 10. Plus, I love the awesome soundtrack. :D
  39. rubin
    Mar 29, 2012
    10
    There is something wonderfully magical about that moment when you discover that one of the most enchanting experiences of your childhood is, in fact, also an awesome game of skill. This what the Emerald was for me, a first step into a world of Pokemon battling, a world that is jealously hidden from all but the most dedicated fans. All of this wouldn't be possible if Game Freak didn't stepThere is something wonderfully magical about that moment when you discover that one of the most enchanting experiences of your childhood is, in fact, also an awesome game of skill. This what the Emerald was for me, a first step into a world of Pokemon battling, a world that is jealously hidden from all but the most dedicated fans. All of this wouldn't be possible if Game Freak didn't step forward with the idea of Battle Frontier. It's basically a place where trainers can test their battling skills in variety of rulesets (7, to be exact). If you succeed, you will earn points for which you can buy prizes that you can use for further improving your team. The best of the best will get to face the Frontier Brains and earn Symbols as a proof of victory. This is quite similar to the badge quest, except much, much more challenging and, consequently, fun. You simply won't succeed if you don't touch upon the complex battle and stat mechanic system of Pokemon games. If you let yourself delve into them, thinking up of effective strategies, carefully training your monsters and testing new teams will soon become your second nature. The rest of the game is mostly the same as (already awesome) Ruby and Sapphire, with a few cosmetic changes like the moving sprites, more focus on Double battles, modified plot and addition of some Johto Pokemon. All in all, Pokemon Emerald is an exceptional addition to the already rich franchise, and is my personal pick for the best video game of all time. Now go dust off your trusty Game Boy Advance and get ready to have 400 hours of your life sucked away by pure awesomeness.… Expand
  40. andrewrox
    May 10, 2012
    9
    pretty good game.......sadly its obnoxious how you have no chance of completing the pokedex except without a action replay.......nd there is some stuff to do after you beat the game.........but not as much as what soul silver offers......however this game is twice as bettwr then ruby and salhire.....dont turn this game down....
  41. alexhudson561
    Aug 5, 2012
    10
    i love the game. the only problem was the exclusion of pokemon such as lunatone,roselia,meditite,surskit, not to mention the fact that you can only see the evolution family of your starter pokemon and the first two evolutions of your rivals. another annoying feature was the rarity of lotad and seedot. overall though its a great game.
  42. Seriosity
    Mar 22, 2013
    10
    Not significantly better or even different from Sapphire and Ruby, but this is the best pokemon game. It is also a waste of money for anyone who bought Ruby or Sapphire before it, so there's that.
  43. Evangellist
    Jul 27, 2013
    10
    Man, no one on this site can give a good critical review worth a damn...

    Eh, I digress, despite this game not being INSANELY popular among game critics or even fans of the series, Pokemon Emerald shines as one of the best quality games in the series. The problem with the Pokemon sister games (E.G. Platinum, Crystal, Black or White 2.) is that critics always review them as stand alone    Man, no one on this site can give a good critical review worth a damn...

    Eh, I digress, despite this game not being INSANELY popular among game critics or even fans of the series, Pokemon Emerald shines as one of the best quality games in the series. The problem with the Pokemon sister games (E.G. Platinum, Crystal, Black or White 2.) is that critics always review them as stand alone titles when they should really be reviewing them as improvements over the original game's formula, rather than giving them a low score because they didn't innovate enough. Emerald takes Ruby and Sapphire and makes lots of little improvements rather than a few large ones, and lets be honest, as Pokemon fans, that's what we really want.

    While it is deceptive, the subtle differences can catch you off guard. For the first time in the series, we have sprite animations on your Pokemon. (Small Improvement but improvement nonetheless.) You have a SIGNIFICANTLY better end game than in Ruby and Sapphire, being able to catch more legendary Pokemon, being able to take on the battle frontier (Which may as well be an entirely new set of gyms.) And several new Pokemon introduced or that were otherwise unavailable in the original games. It adds several new locations and events so there is room for non-linear exploration and fun.

    While it's true that the games battle system remained the exact same, Pokemon seems to be the only franchise that gets punched around too much for not innovating. Other RPG series like Final Fantasy or even Legend of Zelda can be a mite repetitive in re-using their formula's, but they get a free pass. And when Pokemon DOES innovate within itself, it goes unnoticed. Even though it's only a small step ut, this is the definitive way to experience the 3rd generation of Pokemon, hands down. If critics expected anything different than a slight improvement from a sister game like Emerald, then clearly they have a misguided notion.    … Expand
  44. Lasse7900
    Mar 23, 2013
    10
    I dont understand why some critics dont think this is a good game? this is one of the best pokemon games ever and bring back so many memories. Definitely one of my favourite games of all time!
  45. Piscaso
    Mar 26, 2014
    10
    Fun and replayable. With over 200 pokemon to catch you can make many teams and most likely never play all of them.
    Double battles are a new addition and add a change from the "a" mashing and require a bit of strategy.
    After playing awhile I realized that I became attached to my pokemon. And I could relate and really felt bad for them when they fainted. I would always curse out the    Fun and replayable. With over 200 pokemon to catch you can make many teams and most likely never play all of them.
    Double battles are a new addition and add a change from the "a" mashing and require a bit of strategy.
    After playing awhile I realized that I became attached to my pokemon. And I could relate and really felt bad for them when they fainted. I would always curse out the opposing pokemon and obliterate them mercilessly before I take my poor pokemon to the pokecenter to heal.
    The game is challenging if you don't play it right. There is almost required grinding (battling everyone and lots of wild pokemon to raise levels) and nobody to tell you to do it. The first time you play you may want to catch and raise every single pokemon you see, but get around to the second and you may find you want to raise less. Then less. Then only a few. And that's when you will win.
    My tips are raising your favorites your first time around, and seeing what you're good at. Then once you actually know what you're doing, raising only a good team that is good against most types.
    This is my favorite thing about this game BY FAR though. When you start you have dorky looking creatures like a fish, chicken, or tree frog thingy but by the end you have much more badass looking monsters that destroy everything in 1 hit.
    All in all, this game is fun and probably my favorite game of all time ever.    … Expand
  46. MarioBound
    Aug 6, 2013
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It's took a few steps back form Gen 2 like the day-night system and Kanto, and felt unbalanced at times (the last quarter of the game takes place almost entirely in water.) but it is still a great Pokemon game to satisfy the mad people demographic who must catch em all (like me).… Expand
  47. yaloolenoogoo
    Dec 18, 2013
    10
    THE GOOD: This is one of the best pokemon titles of all time. Colorful and beautiful art style. The game has quite a long length. The battle system is satisfying. You can once again customize your team with the hundreds of Pokemon available. Map layout is designed brilliantly, and features a wide variety of climates and areas. There is an added Battle Frontier mode after the main story inTHE GOOD: This is one of the best pokemon titles of all time. Colorful and beautiful art style. The game has quite a long length. The battle system is satisfying. You can once again customize your team with the hundreds of Pokemon available. Map layout is designed brilliantly, and features a wide variety of climates and areas. There is an added Battle Frontier mode after the main story in this version that can also be fun to play.

    THE BAD: There are similarities to Pokemon Ruby and Sapphire. Not a lot of changes. There is a lack of animations compared to other RPG games of this era.

    The third generation of pokemon games was highly overlooked. This game is a MUST BUY! A MASTERPIECE!    … Expand
  48. ThePatronGamer
    Nov 5, 2013
    9
    Although this game was a Ruby/Sapphire 2.0, it had a great story, new interesting features, more pokemon events, and a Battle Frontier to explore. It was 200 hours of my childhood.
  49. wheels_of_fire
    Feb 7, 2014
    10
    Best GBA Pokemon game for sure, deserves 10 out of 10. This game has BATTLE FRONTIER! And you can get more legendary than Ruby/Sapphire. Do you really need anything else?
  50. EinHenrik
    Mar 26, 2014
    10
    Pokemon Emerald Version is the one I like the best. It offers a cool story, a large world and huge variety of Pokemons. It's just unbelievable addicting to play with friends or alone. Easily: 10 out of 10
  51. bloop
    Jan 24, 2015
    10
    This game is awesome, idk how the derp critics gave it a 76, oh herp derp its like the other two, ok does that mean its not a good game? good job not knowing how to do your job.
  52. SrPepe
    Oct 30, 2017
    8
    Es un muy buen juego. Es mucho más recomendable Pokémon Esmeralda que Pokémon Rubí y Zafiro, más completo y mucho más entretenido. Aguante Rayquaza.
  53. joacoandresen
    Oct 24, 2018
    10
    Great, fun, challenging and extensive. Pokemon Emerald improves on the ruby and sapphire games with a sort of new storyline and extensive post-game content. Easily the best game of the 3rd generation of Pokemon and the best GBA game money can buy.
  54. XxAlbertoBuzzxX
    Jun 2, 2020
    9
    Pokemon Esmerald Version
    ....................................................
  55. AlterFate
    Nov 17, 2022
    10
    Childhood favorite, great gameplay, solid difficulty, long and enjoyable endgame. This gen had some of the best pokemon designs, starters, and legendaries. What more could you want?
  56. ShawnEXE
    May 3, 2019
    8
    Music: 4.5/5
    Game Play: 4/5
    Graphics: 3/5
    Story: 4/5
    Time-Value: 5/5
    Overall: 4.0/5
  57. Shadran
    Nov 10, 2019
    8
    Great game. I like diversity of map for this game combining forest, desert, ash fields, volcano and much more. Each location got some nice secrets rewarding you for keeping key items or HMs on you. Gym progresion is well done.
  58. DeltaHaven
    Nov 13, 2019
    8
    One of my favorite Pokemon games ever.
    While its not too different from the previous versions (Ruby/Sapphire) and shares many of their flaws, this version does offer new and interesting story elements involving characters and legendary Pokemon and replayability outside of the main campaign in the form of access to more Pokemon from the previous generations to catch and train and, most    One of my favorite Pokemon games ever.
    While its not too different from the previous versions (Ruby/Sapphire) and shares many of their flaws, this version does offer new and interesting story elements involving characters and legendary Pokemon and replayability outside of the main campaign in the form of access to more Pokemon from the previous generations to catch and train and, most importantly, the Battle Frontier which offer new unique challenges that will keep players engaged for a long time.    … Expand
  59. MazdoTechno
    Nov 19, 2019
    8
    Even though Pokémon Sapphire holds a dear place in my heart, this is the true Hoenn experience
    Pretty much everything you want in a Pokémon game is here, besides story. And don’t get me wrong Pokémon Emerald version has the best story if you look at it from Gen 1-3 only.
    Amazing music The game really feels “grand” A great sense of adventure and mystery Just a great entry into the    Even though Pokémon Sapphire holds a dear place in my heart, this is the true Hoenn experience
    Pretty much everything you want in a Pokémon game is here, besides story. And don’t get me wrong Pokémon Emerald version has the best story if you look at it from Gen 1-3 only.
    Amazing music
    The game really feels “grand”
    A great sense of adventure and mystery
    Just a great entry into the Pokémon series    … Expand
  60. Onlyclassicvg1
    Sep 10, 2020
    10
    Like previous Pokémon games, Emerald challenges you to collect, trade, and battle Pokémon. In this extension of Pokémon Ruby and Pokémon Sapphire, you must stop Team Magma and Team Aqua
  61. Shunior
    Apr 4, 2022
    10
    De lo mejor que Game Freak nos ha dado antes de su total decadencia en las entregas más recientes.
  62. SolomonR.
    Oct 4, 2007
    10
    Same story BUT...its slightly different plus they move like in pokemon crystal, you can get more pokemon like usual beforehand; like sudowoodo, smeargle you can unlock more pokemon in the safari zone as you complete a certain task then having to trade much afterwards. Really cool game, and more things like the battle frontier, a change in the last gym and champion, the story of team magma Same story BUT...its slightly different plus they move like in pokemon crystal, you can get more pokemon like usual beforehand; like sudowoodo, smeargle you can unlock more pokemon in the safari zone as you complete a certain task then having to trade much afterwards. Really cool game, and more things like the battle frontier, a change in the last gym and champion, the story of team magma and aqua and groundon, kyogre and rayquaza. also the fact that you can catch all three not to mention that they increased in levels than ruby and sapphire ones. Still one of the best games of pokemon.… Expand
  63. LukeB.
    Dec 21, 2004
    10
    Amazing.
  64. Zac
    Oct 27, 2005
    10
    The pokemon games all have enormous replay value, and plenty of strategy and secrets. Emerald is the best pokemon game yet. Fun for all ages (as long as you can handle the cutesiness of it). This game can keep you entertained for hundreds of hours.
  65. NickP.
    May 12, 2005
    10
    A Great Game I Recommend It.
  66. Liz
    May 13, 2005
    9
    Love it dearly,awsome game,if your not big on pokemon dont buy,rent.if your big on pokemon,Buy It For Petes Sake!
  67. AnnaH.
    Sep 23, 2005
    10
    It was the sweetest game ever played in all of einternate!
  68. OliverC.
    Jul 26, 2006
    10
    The thing here is that pokemon becomes like a lifestyle for some people. As soon as you turn on the game you're hooked and it doesn't really matter how similar this game is to past versions because all you wanna do is keep playing this perfect game. There really is no big way to improve upon something that's perfect, so think of all of these games as continuations of each The thing here is that pokemon becomes like a lifestyle for some people. As soon as you turn on the game you're hooked and it doesn't really matter how similar this game is to past versions because all you wanna do is keep playing this perfect game. There really is no big way to improve upon something that's perfect, so think of all of these games as continuations of each other and you'll realize why people keep buying them.… Expand
  69. StanislovasK.
    Jan 31, 2009
    10
    Ultimate game for Pokemon lovers and for those who want to play pokemon crater on GBA with d-pad and more live-action, and for those, who want to start loving pokemon. Also, this game proves, that gba had and have good games.
  70. LouisL.
    Dec 22, 2004
    10
    I would like to see it in the US soon!
  71. United
    Oct 16, 2005
    10
    Loved it hardcore.
  72. BrendanM.
    Jan 26, 2009
    10
    This game was awesome! Not only are there more Pokemon, but the graphics, gyms, Elite Four, storyline, and difficulty level were all enhanced! This was my first Pokemon game ever and I was actually disappointed in Diamond and Pearl, no Battle frontier?! That's like a step backward! This game deserves a 100, the best Pokemon game to date, let's all hope Platinum can compare to This game was awesome! Not only are there more Pokemon, but the graphics, gyms, Elite Four, storyline, and difficulty level were all enhanced! This was my first Pokemon game ever and I was actually disappointed in Diamond and Pearl, no Battle frontier?! That's like a step backward! This game deserves a 100, the best Pokemon game to date, let's all hope Platinum can compare to Emerald! And someday I hope they put emerald on the DS, It deserved it more than Diamond and Pearl!… Expand
  73. Watermelon789
    Jul 10, 2011
    9
    Pokemon Emerald version is like Platinum and Crystal version's, expansion , nothing more. Some ( and not ) big changes to some environment and clothe to the character. Plus movement.
  74. Federx
    Jan 30, 2022
    10
    i'm biased as hell but it still deserves a full score. the best of the best back then
  75. sebastianali
    Jul 17, 2021
    9
    Este posiblemente sea el mejor juego de pokemon. La música, increíble ya de por si para la GBA, una de mis bandas sonoras favoritas de los videojuegos, el hermoso pixel art que se ve excelente incluso a dia de hoy, la enorme cantidad de Pokemones, la jugabilidad perfectamente equilibrada a comparación de otros juegos de la saga. Pokemon Esmeralda es un juego bastante pulido. Quizá hayaEste posiblemente sea el mejor juego de pokemon. La música, increíble ya de por si para la GBA, una de mis bandas sonoras favoritas de los videojuegos, el hermoso pixel art que se ve excelente incluso a dia de hoy, la enorme cantidad de Pokemones, la jugabilidad perfectamente equilibrada a comparación de otros juegos de la saga. Pokemon Esmeralda es un juego bastante pulido. Quizá haya cosas que no hayan arreglado de otros juegos de la saga, como el cliché de la liga pokemon, o el hecho de tener que intercambiar si o si para tener la pokedex al 100% cosa que personalmente nunca me gusto. Aun asi, sigue siendo, al menos para mi, el juego mas refinado y balanceado de la saga a dia de hoy.… Expand
  76. Newbboi
    Nov 6, 2022
    8
    Pokemon Emerald is the best GBA pokemon game aside from Radical Red and some other hacks but it's not too fair to count them. The game looks beautiful, the gameplay is very solid even without modern improvements. Overall I would recommend it. I don't think it's as good as the later entries or even some of the mystery dungeon games. Still one of the better pokemon games!
  77. Tmz
    Oct 6, 2020
    10
    Um Pokémon completo, instigante, diverso e lindo. É a entrada mais genial que já vi de uma nova geração com ambientes fantásticos e criaturas mais incríveis ainda
  78. Warbringer
    Feb 21, 2021
    9
    Ruby and Sapphire games completed. Just awesome along the other 2 R&S games.
  79. fanmadeendings
    Feb 15, 2022
    8
    Cool main game and incredible post game, just the whole third version thing is a little iffy when you think about it.
  80. PsychoJoona
    May 8, 2021
    9
    POKEMON! Franchise that was good but not anymore :( But Pokemon Emerald is my favourite of the bunch! The soundtrack and catching Pokemon never gets old! Especially when you have the BATTLE FRONTIER when you beat the game! Awesome!
  81. Visitbr
    Aug 31, 2023
    8
    a versão emerald parece ser uma correção do ruby, mas peca nas mesmas coisas
  82. ViKabbu
    Aug 8, 2021
    9
    Emerald is a masterpiece. Gen 3 is a masterpiece. If you haven't played Pokemon, you can't do much better than play this one.
  83. hector_bcn98
    Oct 31, 2022
    10
    Perfección hecha videojuego de rol. Mejor videojuego del catálogo de advance y el pico más alto de la saga.
  84. skdcraw
    Apr 26, 2023
    8
    Emerald was a game that I played with half a brain when I was little, never understood it, and because it was my first introduction to RPGs, I thought I could overcome everything by leveling up. Although Pokemon actually had a simple rock-paper-scissors system, I couldn't understand this system due to my age and my lack of English, and I started to play the pokemon that I had started, butEmerald was a game that I played with half a brain when I was little, never understood it, and because it was my first introduction to RPGs, I thought I could overcome everything by leveling up. Although Pokemon actually had a simple rock-paper-scissors system, I couldn't understand this system due to my age and my lack of English, and I started to play the pokemon that I had started, but after a while I failed in long fights and quit the game when I couldn't progress in the game. I didn't even know the mechanics of catching Pokemon. So what kind of game is Emerald when you look at it critically now?

    Pokemon games are very sweet games. I don't know if it's its own concept, but having a team of six pokemons at our disposal and pitting these teams against each other with different moves is a nice concept for RPG lovers. The sense of exploration in the game is always very nice. Even if the rewarding is very unbalanced, you want to explore everywhere, because the imbalance in rewarding can lead you to find something very beautiful in a very strange place. Also, it's definitely a nice addition that we can unlock things that are kind of like fast travel with the features where we load pokemons, almost like a metroidvania. These aren't new things, but they're things that are in this game, so I'm evaluating them. The biggest flaw of the game is that I think it's user-hostile. Yes, the game is very sweet, but I'm not sure if we are asked to continue playing or not. I have no idea how we played some of the exploits that we can close in today's emulator conditions. Catching a pokemon consumes a very unnecessary number of pokemon balls, wild encounters that you constantly encounter if you haven't bought a repel and make it even more difficult to walk somewhere. The game is slow in general and the animations are not beautiful enough to make it worth the waste of time. However, in today's conditions, thanks to game acceleration and artificial save points, these points can be covered up and the game can be played much more comfortably. But there is one thing that can't be glossed over, the game is a bit cryptic. Especially when I think that they made the game to appeal to children, the game can get bogged down at some points. So please don't make the same mistake I did and listen to the NPCs even if they speak very slowly because they will probably tell you where to go next. Even if you don't hang out in the main story of the game, why would I go back to the weather station and talk to a specific NPC there after finishing the game to get a legendary pokemon? Should this information be revealed to me?

    Pokemon games are sweet games, their visuals and music are sweet too. There is nothing much to say. They even have some music that I think is extra good (Deoxys), but since Nintendo doesn't release it anywhere, it's very difficult to listen to it.

    There's a sweet story that the game tries to set up, which is obviously better than the cheesy "go collect all the pokemon" story in Red and Blue. Also, I think it's very enjoyable to be able to fight with such big pokémon and then capture them and add them to the team. They even added some sweet side quests to the game.

    Emerald is a sweet game. I know I've written this for the hundredth time, but I can't find a better term to describe this game. After FireRed, I'm satiating my Pokemon hunger with this game. Until I get a phone that can emulate the DS comfortably, I'm done.    … Expand
  85. Nikitosss95
    Feb 13, 2021
    10
    Pokémon Ruby, Sapphire and Emerald have a special place in my gaming heart. The Hoenn region and the third generation of the Pocket Monsters is arguably one of the best ever made. The region is exciting and not that easy to explore (you get new HM moves, my favorite would be Dive); the legendaries are awesome - Groudon, Kyogre and Rayquaza, Latias&Latios; the Pokémon League is challengingPokémon Ruby, Sapphire and Emerald have a special place in my gaming heart. The Hoenn region and the third generation of the Pocket Monsters is arguably one of the best ever made. The region is exciting and not that easy to explore (you get new HM moves, my favorite would be Dive); the legendaries are awesome - Groudon, Kyogre and Rayquaza, Latias&Latios; the Pokémon League is challenging too at first, whether you fight Steven or Wallace; also the Battle frontier is an awesome bonus in the Emerald game!!! Very challenging and lots of fun!… Expand
  86. omniface
    Mar 8, 2021
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. a good game for the gen three of pokemon

    pros
    decent pokemon
    great player guy
    decent gym leaders
    amazing wisdom
    great plot
    great villain team
    amazing post game
    good elite four

    cons
    poor mid game
    poor cave mission
    horrible contest mode
    horrible link mode
    horrible battle point system

    other
    decent graphics
    decent fishing system
    decent underwater mode
    decent legendary areas

    overall a solid game for pokemon fans only    … Expand
  87. MadzN
    Jul 28, 2021
    9
    best gen 3 pokemon game! great game with great story and great music. Great game
  88. grimreapersims
    Jan 7, 2022
    9
    ....................................................................................................................................................................................................blank
  89. Third_Era
    Oct 8, 2021
    10
    In 2021 Emerald is still one of the strongest Pokemon games ever made. It provides a good challenge, great story - combining Sapphire and Ruby plot lines, and a large world that continues to expand as you play. There are a large amount of creatures, especially legendary Pokemon, and secrets that you can hunt throughout the game. Unlike more current Pokemon games, Emerald has a large amountIn 2021 Emerald is still one of the strongest Pokemon games ever made. It provides a good challenge, great story - combining Sapphire and Ruby plot lines, and a large world that continues to expand as you play. There are a large amount of creatures, especially legendary Pokemon, and secrets that you can hunt throughout the game. Unlike more current Pokemon games, Emerald has a large amount of post-game content in the Battle Frontier (BF has been removed from later games for a more simplistic version that is far more boring - even Alpha Sapphire and Omega Ruby don't contain it...)

    You cannot go wrong with playing this one.    … Expand
  90. konjakthesober
    Sep 23, 2021
    10
    Super awsome game. I only miss something like the vs seeker to easier rebattle old trainers but everyting else is so godd that its a solid 10
  91. Bruninho1997
    Oct 13, 2021
    10
    Muito bom!! Definitivamente este é o melhor jogo da franquia Pokémon! Muito completo e divertido!
  92. Superviery
    Dec 11, 2021
    10
    Qué gran juego, pega muy fuerte la nostalgia, es un sin parar de jugarlo constante incluso 16 años después. Música excelente, generación fresca con Pokémon guapísimos, con gráficos renovados y coloridos, buenos personajes, buenísima historia, dos equipos de villanos interesantes y es un juego bastante desafiante, sobre todo con un post-juego EXCELENTE que a todo el mundo le ha gustadoQué gran juego, pega muy fuerte la nostalgia, es un sin parar de jugarlo constante incluso 16 años después. Música excelente, generación fresca con Pokémon guapísimos, con gráficos renovados y coloridos, buenos personajes, buenísima historia, dos equipos de villanos interesantes y es un juego bastante desafiante, sobre todo con un post-juego EXCELENTE que a todo el mundo le ha gustado siempre y que quedará para la historia como el desafío más imponente de Pokémon. Realmente es, sin duda alguna, el mejor juego de toda la franquicia, muy por encima de generaciones posteriores como la 5ª generación o la 7ª, que fueron decepcionantes.… Expand
  93. SuyaSS
    Jan 27, 2022
    9
    Seriously great and a worthy improvement over Ruby and Sapphire. I think adding more content to the post game would have slightly improved it, the battle frontier is fine but there is Pokemon black and white postgame which is amazing. But the postgame in emerald is definetely better than Ruby and Sapphire postgame. Also , I think Steven Stone is a better champion then Wallace but both ofSeriously great and a worthy improvement over Ruby and Sapphire. I think adding more content to the post game would have slightly improved it, the battle frontier is fine but there is Pokemon black and white postgame which is amazing. But the postgame in emerald is definetely better than Ruby and Sapphire postgame. Also , I think Steven Stone is a better champion then Wallace but both of them are pretty weak champions. It is great tho and proudly my first pokémon game completed.… Expand
  94. JA121196
    Feb 5, 2022
    10
    Most people dislike the region of Hoenn (pronounced HŌ-IÑ not hōeén or hōeñ) do to it's lack of Pokémon type variety and the region being mostly water and forest.

    For me emerald remains more then just a nostalgia trip... it is the most feature complete Pokemon game to date, no need for fragile online only events and timed event Pokémon that are lost after services for offline or the    Most people dislike the region of Hoenn (pronounced HŌ-IÑ not hōeén or hōeñ) do to it's lack of Pokémon type variety and the region being mostly water and forest.

    For me emerald remains more then just a nostalgia trip... it is the most feature complete Pokemon game to date,
    no need for fragile online only events and timed event Pokémon that are lost after services for offline or the event cartridges are locked up in the Pokémon vaults forever.

    There was a few limited events during the 3rd generation but none felt necessary to seek out, noting made the game feel any less then a complete 16-Bit RPG masterpiece.

    Do yourself a favor, play this Pokémon game.    … Expand
  95. Krakonian
    Feb 22, 2022
    9
    I think this game is better than the Redfire version. More pokemons and a better gameplay, more things to do and a dope HUD.
  96. Daniel1516
    Nov 17, 2022
    10
    uno de los mejores juegos de la gameboy advance .
  97. Uncle_Beth
    Apr 18, 2022
    10
    Having played Pokemon for over two decades I think the franchise's highest peak was in generation 3 and especially with the release of Pokemon Emerald. Gen 3 revolutionized Pokemon with the introduction of EVs, IVs, complex breeding, double battles, and the first and best iteration of the battle frontier to date. The world of Pokemon Emerald is vast, beautiful, and packed full of secretes.Having played Pokemon for over two decades I think the franchise's highest peak was in generation 3 and especially with the release of Pokemon Emerald. Gen 3 revolutionized Pokemon with the introduction of EVs, IVs, complex breeding, double battles, and the first and best iteration of the battle frontier to date. The world of Pokemon Emerald is vast, beautiful, and packed full of secretes. The music like always is incredible, the Pokemon designs and concepts are some of the best in the franchise, the post game is expansive, and the story is complete. Pokemon Emerald hits every single mark for a great Pokemon game and is in my opinion, the most complete experience in the history of the franchise. Generation 3 was also the final generation where catching them all was an actual challenge and rewarding goal. Since the introduction of wifi trading in generation 4, the task of catching them all has been trivialized to sitting on a couch throwing up virtual trades over the course of a few weeks with the more current games completely abandoning the concept by excluding significant portions of the Pokemon roster. Playing Pokemon Emerald today is still a ton of fun, but Pokemon is at it's best when there is a larger community to play with which will always be maintained with the most recent games. But, if you were there back in 2005 playing, trading, and battling with friends in person, working together to solve the post game puzzles and mysteries, and trying to catch them all, no experience has since compared to generation 3 and Pokemon Emerald.… Expand
  98. Yaacgold24
    Sep 14, 2022
    10
    This is from far the best pokemon game i've ever played. That's all i can say.
  99. Chastizer
    Sep 7, 2022
    8
    Pokemon Emerald is the standard in which I believe all future Pokemon games should be judged by. Hoenn is a great region filled with secrets areas to be explored and neat mysteries to solve. Battle Frontier is by far the best single player post game any game in the series has had to date. Story is good, gyms are good, the mons themselves introduced in this gen are cult classics now. TherePokemon Emerald is the standard in which I believe all future Pokemon games should be judged by. Hoenn is a great region filled with secrets areas to be explored and neat mysteries to solve. Battle Frontier is by far the best single player post game any game in the series has had to date. Story is good, gyms are good, the mons themselves introduced in this gen are cult classics now. There is a lot to love about this game and despite the remakes being out, this game still holds strong and sets itself apart from them in 2022.… Expand
  100. Bidoofildivino
    Jul 17, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. È senza dubbio il miglior gioco pokémon con una trama molto interessante delle cutscene bellissime per essere del 2005.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

14
#14 Best Game Boy Advance Game of 2005
1
#1 Most Discussed Game Boy Advance Game of 2005
1
#1 Most Shared Game Boy Advance Game of 2005

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
76

Generally favorable reviews - based on 28 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 19 out of 28
  2. Mixed: 9 out of 28
  3. Negative: 0 out of 28
  1. Eurogamer
    60
    It just would be nice for Nintendo and Game Freak to supply the other demand next time: the demand of something actually more different, or at least palpably new, for our hard earned. Let the pitchfork laden debate begin.
    Read full review
  2. VGPub
    95
    A fine addition to the Pokemon line-up. It is able to take everything good about Ruby and Sapphire and improve on it, both enhancing the original Ruby and Sapphire feature as well as adding new ones.
    Read full review
  3. eToychest
    85
    Of course, no amount of polish can change the fact that this is still a Pokémon game, and it carries the same flaws consistent to the series. It's certainly a respectable time sink, but-despite the evolutions to the core gameplay-it continues to offer extremely little to win over holdouts. However, it is an ideal starting point for new initiates to the Pokémon franchise.
    Read full review
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