Player character
The unnamed protagonist who explores Kanto, captures Pokémon, and seeks to become Champion.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
D-pad | Move the player character or select menu options. |
|---|---|
A | Talk, inspect, confirm selections, and choose battle commands. |
B | Cancel selections or run from wild battles after obtaining the appropriate ability. |
Start | Open the main menu. |
Select | Rearrange party or item-list entries where permitted. |
Control notes
Controls apply to the original Game Boy version.
Battle commands are selected through menus rather than real-time input.
How it plays
How does Pokémon Blue Version play?
The adventure uses a top-down perspective for exploration and a first-person menu interface for battles. Players move through towns, routes, caves, and buildings while solving progression barriers and collecting up to 151 Pokémon species.
Wild Pokémon appear in grass, caves, and water, while Trainers initiate battles when approached or seen. Winning grants experience, allowing Pokémon to level up, learn moves, and sometimes evolve. The player must defeat eight Gym Leaders, earn their badges, and overcome the Elite Four and Champion.
Red and Blue can connect through the Link Cable for trading and Pokémon battles. Some species are exclusive to each version, so completing the Pokédex requires exchanging Pokémon with another compatible game.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play Pokémon Blue Version?
Build a balanced team with different types rather than relying on one Pokémon. Keep several Pokémon trained near the same level so that a single defeat does not end a major battle.
Use status moves, type advantages, and held-inventory items strategically. Visit Pokémon Centers often, save before important battles, and carry healing items for caves and long routes.
Talk to non-player characters and inspect unusual objects. Progression often depends on receiving a key item, teaching a field move, or completing a small event in the correct order.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
Blue
The player’s rival and Professor Oak’s grandson, who repeatedly challenges the player throughout the journey.
Professor Oak
A Pokémon researcher who gives the player a starter Pokémon and the Pokédex.
Documented inputs
What cheats and unlocks are documented?
Documented unlockNo reliable universal cheat listed; most content is unlocked through normal play.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
Capture Pokémon with varied types and move categories.
- 2
Save before selecting a fossil, receiving a gift Pokémon, or entering a major battle.
- 3
Use the Link Cable to obtain version-exclusive Pokémon and complete the Pokédex.
Community discussion
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