Summary
- Release Year: 2002
- Genres: Adventure, Role-playing game (RPG), Turn-based strategy (TBS)
- Platforms: Game Boy Advance
- Developers: Game Freak
- Publishers: Nintendo
Pokémon Sapphire Version (2002) Review
Pokémon Sapphire Version is a role-playing video game developed by Game Freak and published by Nintendo for the Game Boy Advance. It was released in Japan in November 2002, and in North America and Europe in March 2003. Pokémon Sapphire Version is the second installment in the third generation of Pokémon games, following Pokémon Ruby Version, and is set in the Hoenn region.
Gameplay
Pokémon Sapphire Version is a traditional role-playing game in which the player controls a young Pokémon Trainer who travels around the Hoenn region, capturing and training Pokémon creatures. The player can use their Pokémon to battle other Trainers, as well as wild Pokémon. As Pokémon gain experience in battle, they level up and learn new moves.
New to Pokémon Sapphire Version is the double battle system, which allows two Pokémon on each side to battle simultaneously. This adds a new layer of strategy to the game, as players must now consider the strengths and weaknesses of both of their Pokémon, as well as the Pokémon of their opponent.
Another new feature in Pokémon Sapphire Version is the Pokémon Contest system. In Pokémon Contests, players can show off their Pokémon’s skills in five different categories: Coolness, Beauty, Cuteness, Smartness, and Toughness. Players can win ribbons in Pokémon Contests, which can be used to unlock new items and abilities.
Story
The story of Pokémon Sapphire Version begins with the player character moving to the Hoenn region with their family. The player quickly meets Professor Birch, a Pokémon researcher who gives the player their first Pokémon. The player then sets out on a journey to explore the Hoenn region and become a Pokémon Master.
Along the way, the player meets a variety of characters, including Gym Leaders, Team Aqua, and Team Magma. Team Aqua and Team Magma are two rival organizations that are trying to control the power of the legendary Pokémon Groudon and Kyogre, respectively. The player must stop Team Aqua and Team Magma from achieving their goals, and save the Hoenn region from disaster.
Graphics and Sound
Pokémon Sapphire Version features upgraded graphics compared to previous Pokémon games. The game’s world is more detailed and colorful, and the Pokémon themselves are more expressive. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, with a variety of catchy and memorable tunes.
Reception
Pokémon Sapphire Version was a critical and commercial success. The game sold over 16 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling Game Boy Advance games of all time. The game was praised for its new features, its engaging story, and its beautiful graphics and sound.
Conclusion
Pokémon Sapphire Version is a great addition to the Pokémon franchise. The game offers a new and exciting adventure, with new Pokémon, a more complex battling system, and a longer story. The game’s graphics and sound are also top-notch, making it one of the best-looking and sounding games on the Game Boy Advance. If you’re a fan of Pokémon, or if you’re looking for a great RPG to play on the go, then Pokémon Sapphire Version is definitely worth checking out.
Pros
- New and exciting adventure
- New Pokémon and a more complex battling system
- Longer and more story-focused campaign
- Upgraded graphics and sound
Cons
- Can be repetitive at times
- Some of the new features can be confusing for new players
Review Score
9/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
