Pokémon Emerald Rogue

Have you ever pondered what Pokemon could be like if it were a roguelike game? My take on the situation is provided by Pokemon Emerald Rogue.

How exactly does it function? When you go on an adventure, all of the paths, encounters, and items you come across will be chosen at random using a procedure based on how far you are into the run. As you progress further into a run, gym leaders and other trainers will begin using more difficult configurations for their Pokémon. After a certain number of routes, you will run into a random gym leader who will have a procedurally chosen team of their assigned type. If you are successful in defeating the champion at the end of the run, you will have accomplished your goal of completing the run.

You will return to a hub area at the end of each run, regardless of whether you were successful or not. Here, you will be able to purchase permanent items and catch new “starter” Pokemon to use in the subsequent run. You will be able to use the newly unlocked structures and NPCs in this hub area to prepare for the next run as you make further progress through the current run.

How long does it take to go for a run? It can vary depending on how thorough you are being, but in my testing, a complete run usually takes between three and four hours of actual play time in the game. A quick save option is available (it’s labeled REST in the menu), which allows you to pause the game in the middle of a run and pick it back up later. However, you should be aware that this option does not support save scumming.