Catch ‘Em All, Again: The Best Pokémon ROM Hacks with Every Pokémon

For dedicated fans of the Pokémon franchise, the simple act of “catching ’em all” has always been the ultimate goal. But with each new generation, the task becomes more daunting, often requiring multiple games, a Nintendo console, and the tedious process of trading. This is where the magic of the Pokémon ROM hack community comes in. By modifying the original games, these talented creators have not only added new regions and stories but have also provided a streamlined way to capture every single Pokémon in a single game. For players who want a complete Pokédex without the hassle of trading, these fan-made games are a godsend. Here are some of the best Pokémon ROM hacks that have managed to include every Pokémon from their respective generations and beyond, providing an experience that is both familiar and refreshingly new.

The best of these hacks go beyond just adding new Pokémon. They are complete overhauls, with quality-of-life improvements, new storylines, and a commitment to providing a definitive, all-in-one experience for players. These games are a testament to the creativity and passion of a community that is dedicated to improving upon the original formula and delivering a game that is a true labor of love.

1. Pokémon Unbound: The Definitive GBA Experience

Often hailed as one of the greatest Pokémon ROM hacks of all time, Pokémon Unbound is a masterpiece of game design and a must-play for anyone looking for a complete Pokémon experience. Set in the new region of Borrius, the game features a dark and compelling storyline, and its visuals are on par with later mainline games. The game’s primary selling point is its inclusion of every Pokémon from Generations 1 through 7, all of which are obtainable within the game. This means you can catch ’em all without ever needing to trade. The game is also packed with quality-of-life improvements, including a new quest system, a variety of difficulty options, and a Pokémon following system. Unbound is a complete package that offers a new story, a massive world to explore, and the ability to truly catch every Pokémon, all in a single game.

2. Pokémon Radical Red: The Challenge Seeker’s Dream

If you’re looking for a challenge, Pokémon Radical Red is the game for you. Based on the beloved Pokémon FireRed, this ROM hack has been completely rebalanced and re-tuned to be an incredibly difficult experience. The game features all 898 Pokémon from Generations 1 through 8, a massive number of which are all obtainable in the game. It also includes new features like Mega Evolutions, Dynamax, and new moves from later generations. The game’s trainers and gym leaders have been completely overhauled with competitive teams, and the difficulty is a true test of a player’s strategic prowess. For players who want a definitive, all-in-one experience that will also push them to their limits, Radical Red is an absolute masterpiece.

3. Pokémon Liquid Crystal: A New Take on a Classic

Pokémon Liquid Crystal is a ROM hack that takes the classic Johto region from Pokémon Crystal and completely reimagines it. The game features a new storyline, a brand-new region, and a variety of new features, including a more open world and a new difficulty mode. The game’s primary selling point is its inclusion of every Pokémon from Generations 1 through 4, all of which are obtainable within the game. It also includes new features like the Pokémon following system and a more modern graphical style. Liquid Crystal is a perfect game for players who want a new adventure with a classic feel, and the ability to capture every Pokémon in a single game is a major bonus.

4. Pokémon Theta Emerald EX: A Simpler, More Focused Experience

For players who want a more traditional Pokémon experience, Pokémon Theta Emerald EX is the perfect choice. Based on the classic Pokémon Emerald, this ROM hack is a simpler, more focused game that is all about a single goal: catching every Pokémon. The game features every Pokémon from Generations 1 through 6, all of which are obtainable in the game. It also includes new features like the Battle Frontier and a variety of new moves. Theta Emerald EX is a perfect game for players who want a classic Pokémon experience without all the bells and whistles of a more complex hack. It’s a game that is all about the joy of catching ’em all, and it’s a great way to revisit the classic Hoenn region.

5. Pokémon Gaia: A Modern-Day Classic

Pokémon Gaia is a ROM hack that has been praised for its compelling storyline, beautiful visuals, and its innovative gameplay mechanics. Set in the new region of Orbtus, the game features a new professor and a new set of starter Pokémon. The game features every Pokémon from Generations 1 through 6, all of which are obtainable in the game. It also includes a variety of new features, including a new quest system and a more open world. Gaia is a perfect game for players who want a new adventure that is both familiar and refreshing, and the ability to catch every Pokémon in a single game is a major bonus.