The player character
A customizable young Trainer who begins a journey through Hoenn 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 the selected menu command. |
B | Cancel, close menus, or run when the Running Shoes are available. |
Start | Open the main menu or pause the current field view. |
Select | Use the registered key item when one is registered. |
How it plays
How does Pokémon Sapphire play?
The game uses a top-down perspective for exploration and a menu-driven first-person battle presentation. Travel through towns, routes, caves, oceans, and other areas while collecting Pokémon, defeating Gym Leaders, and advancing the story.
Battles are turn-based. Players choose moves, items, Pokémon switches, or an attempt to flee. Pokémon gain experience, learn moves, evolve, and can be arranged into a team of up to six. After earning eight Gym Badges, the player challenges the Pokémon League and later-accessible optional areas.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play Pokémon Sapphire?
Build a balanced team with several types and keep multiple Pokémon near the same level. Status moves, type advantages, and held items are often more valuable than using only the strongest damaging attack.
Explore routes thoroughly, return to earlier areas when new abilities become available, and save before important battles or legendary encounters. Stock healing items and Poké Balls before long cave or ocean sections.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
Professor Birch
The Hoenn Pokémon researcher who gives the player a first Pokémon and the Pokédex.
May or Brendan
The player's rival and Professor Birch's child, depending on the selected player character.
Archie
Leader of Team Aqua, whose plan seeks to expand the world's oceans.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
Talk to NPCs and check unusual objects; useful items and optional battles are spread throughout Hoenn.
- 2
Use the PokéNav and its map functions to track routes, trainers, and important locations.
- 3
A Pokémon's nature, ability, and move coverage can matter as much as its level.
Community discussion
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