Pokemon Crystal Version 3DS Review

Like the first generation of Pokémon games, Pokémon Crystal Version is the next game to release on the 3DS virtual console to complete the second generation of the main series. Pokémon Crystal does what Pokémon Yellow did for Red and Blue, it takes the established formula set by the previous main entries and adds its own flare. The rerelease is the same game with networking options but shows why Pokémon Crystal is considered one of the best games in the handheld series.

From the start, Crystal provides the first notable tweak to the formula, the ability to choose a boy or girl avatar. For modern audiences, this doesn't seem like a significant aspect but Crystal was the first in the series to have these. Another easily ignored addition was the appearance of your location while in-game.

Arguably the best changes to Crystal is the sprites, which each have their own animation when encountered. Seeing each Pokémon's unique animation makes filling up the Pokédex worthwhile. Once again, for a modern audience, this feature seems antiquated but Crystal was the first game to feature this and for an 8-bit adventure, this addition alone was highly praised. Even now the animated sprites look extraordinary.

The story for Crystal is different from Gold and Silver, with Suicune taking charge as one of the stars of the story. Unlike Entei and Raikou, who still roam Johto after being seen, Suicune heads towards a specific path that the player must follow. This new path has you working with researcher Eusine, an expert on legendary beasts who's been searching for Suicune for 10 years. Without spoiling anything those who played Gold and Silver will find this story to be much more elaborate.

Pokémon Crystal also contains notable changes to the gameplay. Legendary Pokémon have more criteria before they can be found, multiple Elemental Stones have been added, updated Pokémon movesets, and more breeding options. The biggest gameplay additions are the introduction of the Battle Tower and Move Tutor, both which have major staples in modern Pokémon games. 

Nintendo has also added networking to the game allowing gamers to trade, battle, and upload Pokémon to the Pokémon Bank. You can trade Pokémon between all compatible titles such as Red, Blue, Yellow, Gold, and Silver. Using the Pokémon Bank players can trade to X, Y, Sun, Moon, Ultra Sun, and Ultra Moon. Best of all players can now capture Celebi after completing the main quest, a feat that was previously nearly impossible without a specific item.

Pokémon Crystal for the 3DS is the perfect opportunity to experience what is considered one of the best entries in the main series Pokémon games. Crystal also serves as a vanguard for many of the mechanics and features that would remain part of the Pokémon series to this day. Pokémon Crystal took what made Gold and Silver great, added new features, and gave it a fresh coat of paint. If you're a Pokémon fan and haven't tried Crystal now you have no excuse.

Adam Siddiqui, NoobFeed
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