If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to revisit childhood memories while still experiencing something fresh, Pokémon FireRed is the answer. This Game Boy Advance remake of the original Pokémon Red captures the magic of the first generation while modernizing it with thoughtful upgrades that make it one of the most timeless entries in the series.
The Hook:
FireRed isn’t just a remake—it’s a reintroduction to Kanto for a new generation. Whether you’re reliving your first Pokémon adventure or diving into Kanto for the first time, FireRed delivers a near-perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation.
The Good:
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Faithful to the Original:
From the iconic journey through Pallet Town to battling your rival in the Pokémon League, FireRed keeps the heart of Pokémon Red intact. The familiar map, characters, and story beats are all here, bringing back that nostalgic charm. -
Modernized Mechanics:
FireRed takes advantage of the advancements from generations 2 and 3, including the Special/Physical split, updated move sets, and improved graphics. It retains the simplicity of Gen 1 while incorporating enough improvements to feel fresh and accessible. -
The Sevii Islands:
This new post-game area is a welcome addition. With unique puzzles, new trainers, and access to Gen 2 Pokémon, the Sevii Islands expand the adventure beyond the original game’s scope and give you a reason to keep playing after the credits roll. -
Wireless Trading and Battling:
The GBA’s wireless adapter made trading and battling with friends easier and more fun than ever. This feature gave the game a more social element and encouraged players to engage with each other. -
Enhanced Visuals and Soundtrack:
The updated 16-bit visuals are vibrant and crisp, giving Kanto a fresh coat of paint while keeping its classic aesthetic. The remastered soundtrack is both nostalgic and invigorating, breathing new life into those iconic tunes. -
Accessibility:
With built-in tutorials like the Teachy TV and other quality-of-life features, FireRed is perfect for new players while still challenging enough for veterans.
The Mixed:
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Limited Pokémon Variety Early On:
While FireRed adds Gen 2 and Gen 3 Pokémon, they’re mostly locked behind the post-game. Early in the game, you’ll find yourself using the same staples—Rattata, Pidgey, and Geodude—until much later. -
Difficulty Curve:
The original difficulty curve is mostly unchanged, which means the level spikes at the Elite Four can be a grind if you don’t carefully plan your team. Some players will enjoy the challenge, but others might find it frustrating.
The Bad:
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No Abilities or Double Battles in the Main Game:
Despite pulling mechanics from Gen 3, the main story doesn’t incorporate abilities or double battles meaningfully. This feels like a missed opportunity to expand on the formula. -
Linear Progression:
Like the original, FireRed is a very linear adventure. While this makes it accessible, it may feel restrictive to players who enjoy the freedom of more modern entries like Sword/Shield or Scarlet/Violet.
Final Thoughts:
Pokémon FireRed isn’t just a remake—it’s a love letter to the fans of Gen 1 and a gateway for newer players to experience the roots of the franchise. With its vibrant visuals, enhanced gameplay, and nostalgic charm, it’s a must-play for anyone who loves Pokémon.
Rating: ★★★★★★★★★☆ 9/10
It’s a near-perfect reimagining of a classic that still holds up as one of the best Pokémon games to this day.
What’s your take? Is FireRed your go-to Gen 1 experience, or do you think the original Red/Blue still reigns supreme? Let’s discuss why this remake is such a gem!