Pokémon Pink Version (GB) – Complete Gender-Swap Kanto Remake in Full Color
Game Information
Table Of Contents
About This ROM Hack
Pokémon Pink Version is a fully completed Game Boy ROM hack originally released in 2014, based on Pokémon Blue (USA). The project reconstructs and completes the long-lost Pokémon Pink (2001) concept, which was originally created by Jeremy but never released or finished.
The hack was rebuilt from scratch by developer 80C, using only a handful of circulating screenshots as reference. A year later, the project received a major upgrade by being ported to a full-color engine, leveraging the Pokémon Red Full Color source code by Drenn and adapting it specifically for Pokémon Blue.
Rather than being a simple palette swap, Pokémon Pink Version modernizes mechanics, introduces new Pokémon types, fixes long-standing Gen 1 bugs, and provides a fresh yet faithful take on the original Kanto adventure.
Story Overview
The story takes place in a parallel universe to the original Pokémon Blue timeline.
In this world, Red never begins his journey. Instead, a young female trainer steps into his role and experiences the same legendary adventure through Kanto — from Pallet Town to the Pokémon League — but from a new perspective.
While the core narrative remains faithful to Pokémon Blue, the protagonist shift subtly reframes the journey, offering a nostalgic yet distinct experience that feels both familiar and refreshed.
Key Features
- New Protagonist (Kris): You play as Kris from Pokémon Crystal, replacing Red as the main character throughout the entire Kanto storyline.
- Expanded Type System: Dark-type, Steel-type, and Fairy-type Pokémon have been added, modernizing the original Gen 1 battle system.
- Updated Type Chart: Type strengths and weaknesses follow Generation 6 mechanics, significantly improving balance and strategic depth.
- New Starter Pokémon: The traditional starters are replaced with Jigglypuff, Pikachu, and Vulpix, offering a very different early-game experience.
- Full Color Overhaul (v2.x): The final versions run on a full-color engine, giving the game a Gen 2–style visual upgrade while retaining Game Boy compatibility.
- Pokémon Yellow Parity Updates: The Unknown Dungeon now matches Pokémon Yellow’s design, and outdoor tilesets have been updated accordingly.
- Bug Fixes: Major Gen 1 bugs such as the Focus Energy glitch and Safari Zone warp exploits have been fixed.
- Enhanced Presentation: Updated palettes, additional intro screens, and visual polish throughout the game improve immersion without altering the core map layout.
Known Bugs & Issues
This hack inherits technical limitations from the Pokémon Blue Full Color engine:
- Some graphical palette flickering may occur (e.g., brief brightness changes when using items).
- Certain building roofs may temporarily shift palette colors when entering nearby routes.
- Potential hardware risk: Playing the Full Color version on real Game Boy hardware may damage the system. This is not fully confirmed but is noted by the developer as a possibility.
Aside from these, no game-breaking bugs are known. All remaining issues are minor visual artifacts.
Screenshots
Download Links
Mediafire
Developer Information
Developer / Team: 80C
Credits:
- 80C for making the hack;
- Jeremy for the original unreleased Pokemon Pink 2001 hack;
- 80C for making the hack and the Pokemon Blue Full Color port;
- Jeremy for the original unreleased Pokemon Pink 2001 hack;
- Drenn for the Pokemon Red Full Color Source Code;
- Sawakita for the original Extra Title Screen Assembly Code;
- Everyone else involved in the Pokemon Red Full Color project.
Source & References
Official Thread / Website: Pokecommunity
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Pokémon Pink Version?
A: It is a complete ROM hack of Pokémon Blue that replaces the protagonist, adds modern Pokémon types, fixes Gen 1 bugs, and offers both monochrome and full-color versions.
Q: Is this hack finished?
A: Yes. Pokémon Pink Version is 100% complete, with Final Version v2.1 being the definitive release.
Q: Who is this hack for?
A: This hack is ideal for fans of classic Gen 1 Pokémon who want a fresh twist without losing the original structure, as well as players interested in historically significant ROM hacks.
Q: Does the story differ from Pokémon Blue?
A: The main plot remains the same, but the protagonist and presentation offer a different narrative feel.
Q: Are modern Pokémon included?
A: No new Pokémon species are added, but Dark, Steel, and Fairy types are introduced and integrated into existing mechanics.
Q: Is this safe to play on real hardware?
A: The developer warns that the Full Color version may pose a risk to real Game Boy hardware. Emulation is strongly recommended.
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