Pokemon Ruby Version

 Game Boy Advance
User Score
8.5

Generally favorable reviews- based on 387 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 316 out of 387
  2. Mixed: 57 out of 387
  3. Negative: 14 out of 387
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  1. CareBear
    Mar 14, 2003
    10
    Learn to spell there, Patty... Maybe you should get your education from somewhere besides Pokemon games...
  2. Zilcell
    Apr 2, 2012
    10
    This game may seem simple and normal at first glance, but you will realize that the battle system is better executed compared to previous games in the series.
  3. DoctorSpaceman
    Jul 10, 2012
    9
    Somewhat of a step back from the Gold and Silver games (which I believe were the best in the series) but it's Pokemon, what could you ask for?????????
  4. KittyCrookshanks
    Jul 24, 2004
    10
    It's really disappointing that such a great series of gams have such boring tv shows and movies.
  5. PatJ.
    Mar 9, 2003
    9
    This game has great gaficks and kool options better than any other pokemon game .but the only thing that i dont like is that there are not of pokemon form pervous games ,there r only a selck few like oddish and geodude ,zubat ect. the ones that you would always find -_- other than that big dalema the game is fun and full of exciteing things.
  6. PokemonGood
    Jul 26, 2003
    8
    Good!!!
  7. AlvinC.
    Apr 19, 2003
    10
    Great game... interesting twists... an improvement of the previous versions of the Pokemon game series!
  8. SrPepe
    Oct 30, 2017
    7
    Los gráficos son bastante malos y la verdad no entiendo porque sacan este juego cuando después ponen a la venta el Pokémon Esmeralda, mucho más completo y disfrutable.
  9. MzMazzaire
    Dec 11, 2017
    5
    I used to think Ruby/Sapphire/Emerald were the bomb back in 2003-05. Looking back now, however, I kinda realized they're lackluster compared to the other core series games. At least Game Freak got it right with nice-looking graphics and introducing double battles.
  10. Zankyouo
    Sep 4, 2019
    5
    Pokémon es una saga que se caracteriza más por lo mecánico que por lo narrativo, pero debo decir que yo me decanto siempre más por lo último a la hora de analizar un rpg, es por eso que la nota puesta a este pokémon es tan baja, porque tiene muchísimas ideas que jamás se llegaron a explorar de una manera interesante. Incluso el team es aburrido ya que los villanos son unidimensionales yPokémon es una saga que se caracteriza más por lo mecánico que por lo narrativo, pero debo decir que yo me decanto siempre más por lo último a la hora de analizar un rpg, es por eso que la nota puesta a este pokémon es tan baja, porque tiene muchísimas ideas que jamás se llegaron a explorar de una manera interesante. Incluso el team es aburrido ya que los villanos son unidimensionales y estúpidos. A nivel mecánico entiendo porque le gusta a tanta gente, fue el primer juego de pokémon con gráficos tan bonitos y se movía a 60fps, a parte de que implemento muchas cosas, pero me parece una tirita encima de una apuñalada… Expand
  11. Awesomlycool
    Jul 6, 2003
    10
    It is the best games ever!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  12. KurtisR.
    Apr 20, 2003
    10
    This game was the best pokemon game that has come out. I own it too.
  13. PokemonRules!
    May 4, 2003
    9
    Oh, my god. This game is so kewl! Graphics-----9 Story-------10 Battles-------10 Gameplay------9 Controls-------10 Overall------9 The thing is that is doesn't have any Eevee,Celebi,Suicune,Entei or any other old Pokemon. (for a few exeptions).This game is NOT very long.I finished it in 5 days.
  14. SeanD.
    Dec 1, 2003
    10
    I LOVE POKEMON!!!!!
  15. KalanS.
    Apr 4, 2003
    10
    This is going to be the best game in the world and I say that I'm never going to play anything else until I get this game and play it over a million times.Maybe even more. This game is the best!!!!!!!!!!!
  16. Pohcheeboon
    May 18, 2003
    10
    It is a great game. the graphics are nice, although there is a problem.. you cannot find or trade origin pokemon from yellow/blue/red/crystal/silver/gold versions. So have to use the cheats....
  17. [Anonymous]
    May 6, 2003
    10
    It's great!
  18. SharonT.
    May 15, 2004
    10
    It is really fun but why don't they put it on the internet?
  19. LiamC.
    Jul 25, 2006
    10
    This is 1 of my fave games i have had to restart alot because i can complete it really easy now but i have trouble wiv the battle tower so i never do tht 1 lol anyway this is the best pokemon game i have ever played and i am very glad that i have not got pokemon ruby becaus my fave pokemon is on sapphire (kyogre).
  20. KorX.
    Jul 13, 2003
    10
    It's the best but i don't know how to get it on my computer but i've played it before.
  21. M.B.
    Feb 16, 2004
    10
    Pokemon Ruby & Sapphire are the best games ever!!!!!!!
  22. JakeD.
    Mar 7, 2004
    10
    Off the hook.
  23. M-dogthedog
    Apr 22, 2004
    8
    This games awesome but it could be better on computer can someone help me?
  24. NickJ.
    Aug 13, 2004
    10
    Sikkkk dude this game has good graphics 2 on 2 battles are good and i like the new areas its awesome.
  25. AlexanderR.
    Mar 16, 2003
    9
    It's the best in history of GBA it's SUPER GREAT. BUY IT hey i forgot why i didn't rate it 10.
  26. BOBM.
    Jun 27, 2004
    10
    I love it but the should have some cheats to make the game more fun if you have any please send them to me at bmayes.xtra.com.nz
  27. JT
    Nov 29, 2005
    10
    One of the best games i ever played! Especially when you can choose your fave starting pokemon, i'm so into this game that i even felt so emotional when my pokemon fainted!
  28. Wormoid
    Jan 9, 2011
    9
    My favourite installment within the whole series. Pokemon Ruby boasts an amazing story line with action packed fun at every corner, before finally reaching the legendary Groundon that awaits you at the end. All the pokemon are amazingly well graphiced, and the entire game shows off what pokemon is. One of the best games on the Gameboy, don't miss it!
  29. KendylKlownfish
    Apr 11, 2011
    8
    Its introduction to the GBA system may be familiar, but it's more addictive than the previous games. Pros: Likable graphics and visuals, interesting new features and Pokemon designs, and Battle and Trading are funner than ever. Cons: All too familiar, other than being far more complex.
  30. Ash123
    Mar 19, 2011
    10
    I just adore this game i had it when i was little and I still like it today so I'm going to buy another copy of it so I can enjoy it once more just as I had 5 years ago. If I had a lot of fun with it so would you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  31. Watermelon789
    Jul 13, 2011
    8
    This is Pokemon at the best, ( at the time, but stood still) impressive graphics, more pokemon to keep you busy, and a strong story fill the hole. Gameplay is equal but more varied. Gotta catch em' all
  32. ohaiKendyl
    May 18, 2011
    8
    Even if they're not "preferably new", Pokemon Ruby and Sapphire are still a fun experience for any gamer of any age, Pokefan or not. Pros: Addictive; hundreds of new Pokemon to catch, strategies to learn, and items to find; an expansive overworld with tons of variety to explore; additional features; great multiplayer value; lots of extras/secrets to unlock. Cons: Requires both versions ofEven if they're not "preferably new", Pokemon Ruby and Sapphire are still a fun experience for any gamer of any age, Pokefan or not. Pros: Addictive; hundreds of new Pokemon to catch, strategies to learn, and items to find; an expansive overworld with tons of variety to explore; additional features; great multiplayer value; lots of extras/secrets to unlock. Cons: Requires both versions of the game, a link cable, and a lot of your time if you actually wanna "catch em' all"; dull graphics; overall, it's not that different from its predecessors.… Expand
  33. Candy-Floss
    Jul 28, 2011
    9
    I love levelling up my Pokemon on here. I enjoy giving out moves to my Pokemon and watching them battle other wild Pokemon, trainer Pokemon's and especially going to Pokemon gyms to defeat their leaders. Enjoyable fun - I love making Pokeblocks too out of berries - so many different types of berries and items! - and feeding them to my Pokemon, which is why I like contests. But exploring isI love levelling up my Pokemon on here. I enjoy giving out moves to my Pokemon and watching them battle other wild Pokemon, trainer Pokemon's and especially going to Pokemon gyms to defeat their leaders. Enjoyable fun - I love making Pokeblocks too out of berries - so many different types of berries and items! - and feeding them to my Pokemon, which is why I like contests. But exploring is the best part. So many things to do. Fantastic game.… Expand
  34. Happymonk
    Jan 24, 2012
    9
    Pokemon Ruby is one of my favorite GBA games. (at least it was before it got stolen). What it is is a beautifully realized world with it's own history and locales (which can be said of every Pokemon game) with 120+ new (mostly memorable) Pokemon to discover, catch and fight. However, it is the weakest Pokemon game for a number of reasons. Firstly, it doesn't really feel right (which isPokemon Ruby is one of my favorite GBA games. (at least it was before it got stolen). What it is is a beautifully realized world with it's own history and locales (which can be said of every Pokemon game) with 120+ new (mostly memorable) Pokemon to discover, catch and fight. However, it is the weakest Pokemon game for a number of reasons. Firstly, it doesn't really feel right (which is possibly the 60fps); secondly, it doesn't really do anything new for the series. And my main complaint about the game is the fact that it contains too much water, and surfing around can become quite boring. If I was doing a "fair" review I would give it an 8. But I'm doing a review based on what I can remember, and I remember loving it. Nostalgia wins over a few relatively minor faults.… Expand
  35. StevenEvans0
    Nov 3, 2011
    10
    An extremely addicting game which, in my opinion, had the best music, setting, and Elite Four of all the Pokemon games. This game surpassed even my love for my Silver and Red versions, and I have yet to play a Pokemon game that has come close to it.
  36. BasilZero
    Mar 28, 2015
    9
    Game: Pokemon Ruby
    Genre: RPG
    Developer: GameFreak/Nintendo System: GameBoy Advance (GBA) Total Score: 93/100 Value Score: 9.3/10 • Story: 8/10 • 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 +Great storyline with two enemy teams and more emphasis on legendary pokemon    Game: Pokemon Ruby
    Genre: RPG
    Developer: GameFreak/Nintendo
    System: GameBoy Advance (GBA)
    Total Score: 93/100
    Value Score: 9.3/10

    • Story: 8/10
    • 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
    +Great storyline with two enemy teams and more emphasis on legendary pokemon never seen before in the series
    +Visuals have been improved greatly compared to the first two generations
    +Secret bases have been added which is a new feature that allows you to customize your own personal room.
    +Berries have been introduced, you can now equip berries to pokemon that they can use to self heal and you can plant more to get more.
    +2 on 2 battles have been introduced to the series
    +Engage in multi battles with up to 4 friends
    +Pokemon Contests have been added which is another new mini game feature which lets you compete against other pokemon using stylish movies
    +Can use to trade pokemon from Sapphire/FireRed/LeafGreen/Emerald.
    +PokeNav allows you to use different tools easily rather than clogging up item space such as a map, the codition of the player's pokemon, and features "Trainer's Eyes" which allow you to have a rematch with a previously fought trainer
    +New pokeballs have been added
    +Natures have been introduced which allows growth changes to occur to pokemon. Different stats go up depending on nature.
    +Abilities have been introduced which allows pokemon to use passive powers such as flying pokemon being immune to ground attacks, etc.

    Cons
    -Night/Day mode does not exist from Generation 2 games
    -Cannot trade with games from 1st or 2nd gen (excluding remakes of 1st gen)    … Expand
  37. spadenx
    Jan 13, 2012
    8
    It seems every few years we get a truely improved version of Pokemon and this is it. Ruby was a very enjoyable game and it gives you a much needed upgrade while still keeping the classic Pokemon feel.
  38. namDa65
    Jan 17, 2012
    10
    My favourite GBA game ever. Played 38 hours of it in my most recent playthrough back in '05. Sapphire version had this whale pokemon that I captured and it was sick. lololololololololololol. 10/10
  39. rubin
    Apr 3, 2012
    9
    Don't get me wrong, Red and Blue, as well as their sequels Gold and Silver, were fun games. But it wasn't until Ruby and Sapphire that the franchise skyrocketed from "just good" to absolutely amazing. R/S single player adventure is by far the most fleshed out of any Pokemon game, and it involves a rich, non-linear region, tons of secret dungeons, an actual plot (gasp!), interesting set ofDon't get me wrong, Red and Blue, as well as their sequels Gold and Silver, were fun games. But it wasn't until Ruby and Sapphire that the franchise skyrocketed from "just good" to absolutely amazing. R/S single player adventure is by far the most fleshed out of any Pokemon game, and it involves a rich, non-linear region, tons of secret dungeons, an actual plot (gasp!), interesting set of new characters and an alright difficulty level. However, what made this game a complete winner were various improvements to the broadly defined game performance. From the very high framerate (60 fps), to drastically improved sound and visuals and the completely revamped box system, you simply can't go wrong with Ruby and Sapphire. I could go on like this forever, but the gist of it is, Ruby and Sapphire were (and are) one of the most spectacular GBA ttiles to date - a near-ideal adventure that many of the newer Pokemon games still struggle to match.… Expand
  40. Welterweight426
    Jun 11, 2012
    9
    In my opinion, the best pokemon game of the first 3 generations. The story was a step up and the pokemon were great. The game looked nice and I loved the addition of bases and pokemon contests.
  41. AJ_antipop
    Mar 24, 2014
    9
    Objectively, this game (Sapphire Version, to be exact) is very good, on pretty much all levels, but personally, this is a near-classic to me, due to the fact that I grew up playing this a lot, and the nostalgia factor is extremely large for me. That being said, it's still certainly a worthwhile addition to any Pokemon fans collection, and I believe that this game remains a highlight of theObjectively, this game (Sapphire Version, to be exact) is very good, on pretty much all levels, but personally, this is a near-classic to me, due to the fact that I grew up playing this a lot, and the nostalgia factor is extremely large for me. That being said, it's still certainly a worthwhile addition to any Pokemon fans collection, and I believe that this game remains a highlight of the series to this day.… Expand
  42. Seriosity
    Mar 22, 2013
    9
    My favorite of generation of the first 3. So glad to be out of Kanto. The game has the same addictive aspect, but it has so much more depth. The massive ocean gives you a lot to explore and the upgrade to GBA is impressive.
  43. jeff_reviews
    Jul 23, 2013
    9
    The Hoenn region in the games may feel a tad to similar to the Kanto region, but despite this, the games are highly addictive, with a great and new adventure to explore. "Pokemon Ruby Version" is fun and an interesting game that Pokemon fans will most likely cherish.
  44. Glitter
    Aug 30, 2013
    10
    Despite following in the footsteps of two previous incarnations of the main Pokémon handheld series, the third generation of gaming (Pokémon Ruby, and Pokémon Sapphire) are immaculate games that raised the bar to become the pinnacle of the Pokémon series. Set in a Paradise-like region, home to lush forestation, vast seas, a looming volcano, and a not-so-desolate desert, Hoenn is by far theDespite following in the footsteps of two previous incarnations of the main Pokémon handheld series, the third generation of gaming (Pokémon Ruby, and Pokémon Sapphire) are immaculate games that raised the bar to become the pinnacle of the Pokémon series. Set in a Paradise-like region, home to lush forestation, vast seas, a looming volcano, and a not-so-desolate desert, Hoenn is by far the most diverse and fascinating setting in any Pokémon game. Complimenting the games is a jubilant soundtrack, with beautiful horns that even in MIDI are hypnotically entrancing. Still to this day, beyond a decade after release, the replay value is ever so high as it was at release.… Expand
  45. Jiano74
    Jan 25, 2016
    10
    The game that made my childhood truly brilliant something that even 13 years after its original release I still find myself playing and enjoying so much. Not just one of my favourites as a child but this is one of the best games ever made and I truly love it.
  46. Jipa
    Jul 3, 2014
    9
    This game is really awesome. I think for me it was because groudon was the best out of the three. While i prefer emerald this game is still awesome and unlike in emerald you can CATCH groudon before elite four. YUP. Just groudon. (sorry for the bad review)
  47. baloon123
    Jul 27, 2014
    10
    From al the games that released on GBA advance. This is the one that i by far played the most i really enjoy Ruby the game play is addictive it just makes you want to catch 'em all!
  48. WheelzFourReelz
    Dec 30, 2014
    8
    Frustrating moments aside, Pokémon Ruby is a very delightful Pokémon game that has the same great creatures as the other games. It's charming, it's addicting, it's fun.
  49. TwistedCritic
    Mar 14, 2016
    10
    Hasn't aged a day, it's still a great game, and it was what got me hooked on these brilliant games in the first place! The 3rd gen Pokemon are my favorite, they've got a great design to them, and the improvements to the game's battles, such as double battles, as well as new additions like contests and berries make this an astoundingly deep RPG.
  50. kvnd
    Dec 14, 2019
    9
    This game was my ****, and going from GBC to GBA seemed like such a huge leap to my dumb little kid brain. It's just more Pokémon with more bells and whistles...and it slaps. Tons of new monsters were added, two-on-two battles introduced, beauty contests, held items could be used in battle, the list goes on. This game is easily 50+ hours of gameplay and honestly 200+ if you wanted to seeThis game was my ****, and going from GBC to GBA seemed like such a huge leap to my dumb little kid brain. It's just more Pokémon with more bells and whistles...and it slaps. Tons of new monsters were added, two-on-two battles introduced, beauty contests, held items could be used in battle, the list goes on. This game is easily 50+ hours of gameplay and honestly 200+ if you wanted to see everything the game has to offer, and of course, catch em all.… Expand
  51. Sausage22
    Nov 7, 2017
    9
    My favourite region, a lot of variety. 3rd generation has really cool Pokemon designs, and the graphic style is in my opinion the most original in the series, it's fantastic that you can see reflection of your character in the water. The music is great for gba. My only complain is the ending when you have spend time in this infamous water.
  52. Benonline27
    Nov 10, 2017
    10
    although it has annoying random encounters and is very hard, this game is a massive masterpiece, gba game done right, great open world, great soundtrack, great characters and great game, a true masterpiece
  53. Matias8654
    Jun 1, 2018
    9
    Al igual que su complementario un juego que hay que jugar mas allá que como de costumbre solo cambie el legendario es un juego increíble
  54. Pakon
    Dec 25, 2018
    10
    The best way to introduce a new generation of Pokemon to fans is to make the game as good and fresh as possible. This game is an example of how to make a solid Pokemon game with neat story, some new moves and mechanics and traditional Pokemon-style gameplay. One of the best Pokemon games up to date which people still prefer to play over many others which are newer.
  55. AceDayload
    Jun 24, 2018
    10
    - Pokémon Ruby is one of my favorite game in the Pokémon saga is an incredibly addictive game is extremely epic and beautiful.
  56. Mintyco
    Nov 6, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. _______________________________________________________________________Good… Expand
  57. cbp105
    Feb 26, 2019
    8
    Pokemon Ruby and Sapphire are very good Pokemon games. They are the first main games after the Game Boy and are quite impressive. The region is one of my favourites to this date and actually have different antagonists for the different versions. There are many issues with polish, such as the occasionally difficult to read font, odd player sprite, the removal of small Pokemon animationsPokemon Ruby and Sapphire are very good Pokemon games. They are the first main games after the Game Boy and are quite impressive. The region is one of my favourites to this date and actually have different antagonists for the different versions. There are many issues with polish, such as the occasionally difficult to read font, odd player sprite, the removal of small Pokemon animations like in Pokemon Crystal, and a few cave areas with ugly colour pallets. The lack of a time capsule is saddening, but understandable. 8/10
    (Also, why is Pokemon Sapphire not listed, but both FireRed and LeafGreen are?)    … Expand
  58. clem666
    Jun 2, 2021
    10
    Actually I had the 'Sapphire Version' but for an unknown reason it won't appear on the Metacritic website. This was my very first experience with 'Pokémon' video games. It is impossible for me to describe the powerful nostalgic vibe encompassing this version, its music soundtrack, story, locations and characters. I spend way too much time of my childhood and adolescence on it. I must haveActually I had the 'Sapphire Version' but for an unknown reason it won't appear on the Metacritic website. This was my very first experience with 'Pokémon' video games. It is impossible for me to describe the powerful nostalgic vibe encompassing this version, its music soundtrack, story, locations and characters. I spend way too much time of my childhood and adolescence on it. I must have launched more than twenty different plays and finished the story more than five times.

    Discovering Hoenn and all the Pokemons and people living in it always was a thrilling experience. The sense of progression is constant and well balanced, the Pokemon weren't so ugly at the time, the puzzles and riddles are fun even if a bit difficult from time to time for the kid I was. Crafting and training our own team is really rewarding and compelling. There are some difficulty peaks here and there but they always happen to underline the fact that you have to train harder. The links between characters (and especially those of you family and close friends and opponents) are really deep and interesting and give this particular version a surprising amount of emotions and stunning discoveries (no spoil).

    The quantity of details is truly crazy compared to the other games: in this trilogy we have the berries, contests, the possibility to link with other players, the pension, the numerous underwater caves and zones to explore, double battles, many unique Pokémon to catch, varied environments, interesting mythology, hidden zones, secret quests, and so on. Even after the League there is still content to discover and valiant opponents to fight. Fights are fast enough to not become overly redundant and frustrating. There are enough Pokedex entries to make you want to catch them all without being discouraged from the start. What drove me the most crazy about this version is how each area is tied to a particular atmosphere maintained by the soundtrack throughout the game. And nothing could erase the passion and the infinite pleasure to catch a legendary Pokemon with a classic Pokeball (yeah, I captured Latias on the 'Sapphire Version' that way, yeah I did, and it took me something like 50+ hours of gameplay).

    As a kid this particular game made want to travel the world and discover new people and cultures. It made me dream, it made me laugh, it made me mad, it made me sad. I'll surely keep a physical copy of this game close to me for the rest of my life.    … Expand
  59. Nukzuk
    Aug 4, 2019
    9
    One of the best pokemon games,this map and pokemons is pretty cool,i just don't like the replay,i finish this game twice and i don't want finish again,but the duration of the game is ok,you can finish in like 7 hours,or if you are a crazy speedrunner 3 hours,but the history and kyogre and groudon make this game insane
  60. Shimmeywill
    Mar 10, 2020
    8
    A lot of time sunk into this simple but entertaining classic. Music is iconic and creatures long lasting.
  61. Aquvamaen
    Nov 1, 2019
    8
    Great Pokemon games, Pokemon Ruby and Sapphire really took pokemon to the next level, the graphics were leaps and bounds ahead of the previous games in the series. Pokemon RS has overall fantastic pokemon designs, very memorable starters and legendaries. The region is a lot of fun to play through, you have to figure out a few things in the games yourself which i personally think is a lotGreat Pokemon games, Pokemon Ruby and Sapphire really took pokemon to the next level, the graphics were leaps and bounds ahead of the previous games in the series. Pokemon RS has overall fantastic pokemon designs, very memorable starters and legendaries. The region is a lot of fun to play through, you have to figure out a few things in the games yourself which i personally think is a lot of fun. These are some of the best of the bunch when it comes to pokemon games, a lot of positives, but also some negative. This region is relying highly on HM`s which can be tedious at times, you often have to sacrifice one of your good mon`s to waterfall, surf or strength, and you also have the broken RNG, but apart from that this is a great experience.… Expand
  62. Kiraki1120
    Nov 16, 2019
    8
    Great Pokemon game which introduced the abilities system, which is part of the Pokemon now. Game was great as always and there were many places to discover!
  63. pedraww
    Dec 8, 2019
    9
    I've finished it, the other GBA versions and the 3DS remake more than 15 times. Mot my favourite gen, but definitely my favourite Pokémon game.
  64. tukumalu
    Apr 26, 2020
    9
    Having this as the first pokemon game might not be the best in term of chronological order but still served as a wonderful entry into the series
  65. Hellgates666
    Jun 25, 2020
    9
    Gen 3 of pokemon launches you into an incredible world that manages to, in my opinion, outshine gen 1 and gen 2. The beautiful cities and gym battles, the hidden player bases, and the pokemon themselves all contribute to the quality of this game. I'd be lying if I said this game didn't help make my childhood as good as it was. Ruby. Sapphire and Emerald will always have a special place inGen 3 of pokemon launches you into an incredible world that manages to, in my opinion, outshine gen 1 and gen 2. The beautiful cities and gym battles, the hidden player bases, and the pokemon themselves all contribute to the quality of this game. I'd be lying if I said this game didn't help make my childhood as good as it was. Ruby. Sapphire and Emerald will always have a special place in my heart.… Expand
  66. Visitbr
    Aug 31, 2023
    7
    jogo muito massa, só faltou ser memorável, essa região não foi tão daora quanto kanto, mas é legal
  67. manuel812
    May 29, 2021
    6
    es simplemente un buen juego pero MUYYYY sobrevalorado la historia es MALISIMA ósea ustedes vieron los horrorosos equipos villanos la dificultad es simplemente decente y la region es buena con una buena exploración por cierto esta es la generación de las de gameboy con los peores rivales pero no hay que olvidarnos de que fue un juego muy revolucionario
  68. Gondar7
    Sep 29, 2020
    10
    Pokemon Ruby introduced a great story with new pokemon to catch. Besides the graphics being fun and easy to navigate its clean and good fun.
  69. hector_bcn98
    Oct 31, 2022
    9
    Casi perfecciona la fórmula Pokemon, si no fuera por Esmeralda. JRPG de referencia mundial.
  70. 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
  71. TSNintendogamer
    Apr 10, 2022
    10
    this game is great. I had sapphire as a kid but ruby counts too since it was my brother's. I want to say that when I was just turning ten, I got the game for my birthday. I loved it. I remember seeing it in a magazine and I thought "this is great. Now I won't need to deal with gameboy graphics any more." but I didn't like how there wasn't a second region unlike gold and silver.this game is great. I had sapphire as a kid but ruby counts too since it was my brother's. I want to say that when I was just turning ten, I got the game for my birthday. I loved it. I remember seeing it in a magazine and I thought "this is great. Now I won't need to deal with gameboy graphics any more." but I didn't like how there wasn't a second region unlike gold and silver. However I never realised that there was at least as much content in ruby and sapphire as gold and silver. I mean gold and silver had more side quests I believe but ruby and sapphire's world was more filled than gold and silver's. I also wished there was a day and night cycle but other than that, the game was a masterful game. Lastly I didn't like the way the devlopers handled the roaming pokemon. At least in gold and silver, there were 3 roaming pokemon and the region was smaller so they were easier to track. For one thing, it really brought more to the story and it set a standard with story telling in the pokemon games. It also brought mini games like the berry game and the contests. I also loved double battles as well. It was even the first pokemon game I beat. However because of it's downfalls, I felt nostalgia for gold and silver but looking back both games were really good.… Expand
  72. albegres
    Feb 5, 2022
    8
    82/100 but 100/100 in my heart
    This was my first game. Still somewhat playable nowadays: there is a remake but if you can play this one
  73. Squaredash
    Jul 19, 2023
    8
    After 2 entries that REALLY don’t stand the test of time, the gen 3 games feel like the first ones where they know what they’re doing with the franchise. Between the massive graphics upgrade, the introduction of many core features like abilities, the standard formula for a story (even if it’s not that great), and a region that feels bursting with new pokemon and unique towns, you’d beAfter 2 entries that REALLY don’t stand the test of time, the gen 3 games feel like the first ones where they know what they’re doing with the franchise. Between the massive graphics upgrade, the introduction of many core features like abilities, the standard formula for a story (even if it’s not that great), and a region that feels bursting with new pokemon and unique towns, you’d be hard-pressed to find a fan of the series that doesn’t consider these games at least solid.… Expand
  74. GDsReviews
    May 27, 2022
    2
    Pokemon Ruby and Sapphire are a massive step backwards from the previous generation of Gold, Silver, and Crystal.

    Day and Night is gone, and so is going to multiple regions. It does though however mark the start of double battles, natures, and abilities that have become staples of the series ever since at the expense of making it much more complicated on the player's end compared to the    Pokemon Ruby and Sapphire are a massive step backwards from the previous generation of Gold, Silver, and Crystal.

    Day and Night is gone, and so is going to multiple regions. It does though however mark the start of double battles, natures, and abilities that have become staples of the series ever since at the expense of making it much more complicated on the player's end compared to the first two generations of the games.

    The game overall is challenging, with a fantastic soundtrack that is easily among the best in the series to this day, and the new Pokemon introduced in this generation are truly great.

    As soon as you beat this game though, it grinds to a complete halt, but this seems to be a chronic problem with Pokemon games in general across the generations for the most parts with only a handful of exceptions.    … Expand
  75. AShinyG1ratina
    Jun 21, 2022
    6
    Too much water. No but in all seriousness Emerald completely nullifies the point of even playing this game.
  76. AlexMakesToast
    Dec 16, 2022
    6
    Ruby = 6/10
    ................................................................
  77. umrttl
    Dec 10, 2022
    9
    Good game. Blaziken is goated and the battle tower was stupid hard as a 12 year old
  78. saplign
    Feb 2, 2023
    9
    volcano monster‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎
  79. APolChrome
    May 7, 2023
    9
    Sé que suena raro, pero en 2023 he jugado a Pokémon Rubí como mi primer juego de la saga. Nunca me habían convencido la mayoría de características de los RPG, porque creía que eran poco dinámicos, hasta que un día, decidí probar este juego... Y me ha gustado en todos sus aspectos.

    La jugabilidad (que era lo que menos me atraía del juego) ha sido sin ninguna duda lo mejor. Unos combates    Sé que suena raro, pero en 2023 he jugado a Pokémon Rubí como mi primer juego de la saga. Nunca me habían convencido la mayoría de características de los RPG, porque creía que eran poco dinámicos, hasta que un día, decidí probar este juego... Y me ha gustado en todos sus aspectos.

    La jugabilidad (que era lo que menos me atraía del juego) ha sido sin ninguna duda lo mejor. Unos combates muy dinámicos, con la esencia de Pokémon y una dificultad ascendiente muy bien llevada. Capturar Pokémon se siente genial y los combates contra entrenadores son una muy buena manera para prepararte a futuro.

    Aunque si quieres pasarte el juego, prepárate. Aunque sea un juego que lo veas y pienses que es para un crío, es muy difícil a partir de un poco más de la mitad, pero esa dificultad (además de ser justa) está regulada y es una curva, no un pico. Además, cosas como las MT pueden ayudarte muchísimo a la hora de afrontar el juego.

    Visual y musicalmente, se ha mantenido bastante bien. El juego es precioso y tiene una variedad de entornos, diseños de Pokémon y lugares increíble. Además, tiene algún temazo que se queda metido en la cabeza y está muy bien.

    La historia, es Pokémon, pero me ha gustado bastante. Tiene momentos de tensión y en general, hay un buen motivo para moverte por el mundo de Pokémon Rubí. Y la rival o rival... me ha encantado. Veía gameplays de Pokemon Escudo por ejemplo y notaba al rival como un entrenador sin ganas, que escoge lo débil contra ti. Pero en este juego se nota que tu rival quiere lo mismo que tú, e intentará conseguirlo como sea.

    Resumiendo, Pokémon Rubí es un juegazo ideal para empezar no solo con Pokémon, sino con los RPG en general.    … Expand
  80. AnthonyStf
    Jun 18, 2023
    8
    Couldnt find Emerald. This is not my pick for the best pokemon game(it's platinum!) Not even in the top 3(B2W2 & USUM) But you good make a pretty good argument on why it's the best. 9
    8/10
  81. Marioipod13
    May 25, 2023
    10
    Pokemon Ruby and Sapphire are excellent Pokemon games. The Hoenn Region is great with very fleshed-out and relatable character design, and the overall gameplay is fun.
  82. VLG
    Aug 23, 2023
    9
    One of the last pokemon games i played before being just too old to really enjoy them.
  83. TreasureOrTrash
    Sep 8, 2023
    10
    Treasure!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Awards & Rankings

14
#14 Best Game Boy Advance Game of 2003
3
#3 Most Discussed Game Boy Advance Game of 2003
4
#4 Most Shared Game Boy Advance Game of 2003

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
82

Generally favorable reviews - based on 30 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 22 out of 30
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 30
  3. Negative: 1 out of 30
  1. Thunderbolt
    90
    I’ve uncovered a marvelous new gaming world that I love immersing myself in and now my nephew and I can talk with equal zest about our various Poké accomplishments.
    Read full review
  2. Edge Magazine
    80
    Ruby/Sapphire is probably the most intricate and detailed console RPG available. Staring into it will make many players woozy. [Sept 2003]
  3. Gamestyle
    80
    Whilst its apparent lack of any revolutionary gameplay is a worthy of criticism, it doesn't stop the fact that this is still by far one of the most addictive and long-lasting games you could hope for on your Gameboy Advance.
    Read full review
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