Player character
A young Trainer who travels through Hoenn, captures Pokémon, earns Gym Badges, and challenges the Pokémon League.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
D-pad | Move the player character or navigate menus. |
|---|---|
A | Confirm selections, talk to people, inspect objects, and use field actions. |
B | Cancel selections or run while held after obtaining the Running Shoes. |
Start | Open the main menu outside battle. |
Select | Use the registered item or field shortcut when one is assigned. |
How it plays
How does Pokémon Emerald play?
The game uses a top-down perspective for exploring towns, routes, caves, and water routes. The main objective is to collect Pokémon, defeat eight Gym Leaders, challenge the Elite Four and Champion, and complete the regional Pokédex.
Battles are turn-based, with players choosing attacks, items, Pokémon switches, or an attempt to flee. Experience raises levels and can trigger evolution. The story follows a largely linear route structure, while optional areas, contests, rematches, and the Battle Frontier provide additional progression.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play Pokémon Emerald?
Build a balanced party with different types and reliable status or support moves. Keep several Pokémon near the same level so important battles do not depend on one highly overleveled team member.
Carry healing items, save before legendary encounters, and use status conditions to improve difficult captures. Explore thoroughly for hidden items, optional caves, and side areas that provide useful moves and Pokémon.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
May or Brendan
The player’s rival and Professor Birch’s child, who develops as a Trainer during the journey.
Wally
A shy Trainer whose confidence grows as he learns to train and battle with Pokémon.
Professor Birch
A Hoenn Pokémon researcher who gives the player a first Pokémon and the Pokédex.
Team Aqua and Team Magma
Two rival criminal organizations whose plans threaten Hoenn’s ecological balance.
Wallace
The Sootopolis Gym Leader who serves as the Pokémon League Champion in Emerald.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
Use the Pokédex and move descriptions to track type advantages.
- 2
The Battle Frontier is intended as a demanding post-game challenge.
- 3
Save before one-time legendary encounters and before major battles.
Community discussion
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