Just finished revisiting Pokémon SoulSilver, and wow—it’s everything a Pokémon fan could ever want. This isn’t just a remake; it’s a love letter to fans of Pokémon Gold and Silver and a shining example of how to update a classic without losing its charm. Whether you’re a veteran trainer from the Game Boy Color days or a newer fan curious about Johto, this game is an absolute must-play.
The Hook:
SoulSilver takes the magic of the original Johto games and elevates it with gorgeous visuals, thoughtful updates, and enough new features to make it feel like a fresh experience. It’s not just a remake—it’s a masterpiece that sets the bar for what Pokémon remakes should be.
The Good:
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Johto and Kanto in Full Color:
Exploring Johto again feels like coming home. The updated visuals on the Nintendo DS bring this beloved region to life, from the serene beauty of Ecruteak City to the icy caves of Mahogany Town. And let’s not forget: SoulSilver gives you access to Kanto, doubling the regions to explore and making it one of the most content-rich Pokémon games ever. -
Pokémon Follower System:
Your lead Pokémon following you around is one of the best features in the series. It’s charming, adorable, and makes your bond with your Pokémon feel so much more personal. Whether it’s a tiny Pichu or a massive Lugia, seeing them trail behind you never gets old. -
Improved Mechanics and Features:
SoulSilver adds a ton of quality-of-life improvements, like touchscreen integration for menus and the Pokégear. The game also introduces the Physical/Special split from Diamond and Pearl, which makes battles more strategic and balanced. -
Pokeathlon:
This fun side activity is a standout addition. Offering skill-based minigames that focus on Pokémon stats like Speed and Stamina, the Pokeathlon is a refreshing alternative to the usual battling grind. -
Updated Story and Lore:
While the core story remains faithful to the original, SoulSilver enhances it with new events, such as the Arceus event that delves into the lore of Legendary Pokémon. These touches make the game feel both nostalgic and fresh. -
Post-Game Content:
Once you beat the Elite Four and make your way to Kanto, the adventure is far from over. Battling Red on Mt. Silver is one of the most iconic moments in the franchise, and hunting Legendary Pokémon keeps you busy long after the credits roll.
The Mixed:
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Grinding Levels:
The level curve is notoriously steep in Johto, especially heading into the Elite Four. While this adds a layer of challenge, it can also feel a bit grindy, particularly when preparing for Red’s insanely strong team. -
HMs Are Still a Thing:
While it’s part of the series’ old-school charm, needing HMs like Cut, Surf, and Rock Climb to progress can get tedious. You’ll likely need an “HM slave” on your team to carry them all.
The Bad (Barely):
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Some Features Are Locked Behind Extras:
To access features like the Pokéwalker mini-games or certain event Pokémon, you needed physical peripherals or online events that are no longer active. While not game-breaking, it’s disappointing for modern players who might miss out on these extras. -
Kanto Feels Slightly Rushed:
While having Kanto is incredible, some areas and gyms feel underdeveloped compared to Johto. It’s still a joy to revisit, but the pacing can feel uneven.
Final Thoughts:
Pokémon SoulSilver is more than a remake—it’s a celebration of everything that makes the Pokémon series great. With its expanded regions, improved mechanics, and charming new features, it’s not just a nostalgia trip; it’s a timeless adventure. Whether you’re battling gym leaders, exploring the Pokeathlon, or facing off against Red, SoulSilver will remind you why you fell in love with Pokémon in the first place.
Rating: ★★★★★★★★★☆ 9/10
It’s one of the greatest Pokémon games of all time and an absolute must-play for fans of the series.
What’s your take? Is SoulSilver your favorite remake, or do you think another entry deserves the crown? Let’s talk about why this game still shines so brightly years later!