Pokémon Metal Red (GBA) – FireRed Remastered with Generations 1–8, Mega Evolution & Gigantamax
Game Information
Table Of Contents
About This ROM Hack
Pokémon Metal Red is a modern and feature-rich Pokémon FireRed ROM hack that preserves the original Kanto storyline while heavily expanding gameplay systems, Pokémon availability, and battle mechanics. The hack introduces Pokémon from Generation 1 through Generation 8, including Mega Evolutions, Gigantamax forms, regional variants, and new battle systems inspired by later generations.
While the story structure remains familiar, the experience is significantly enhanced through high difficulty, improved trainer AI, and a wide range of quality-of-life features. Brendan replaces the default rival, and numerous mechanical upgrades make this hack feel closer to a hybrid of classic FireRed and modern Pokémon titles.
Story Overview
The main storyline follows the original events of Pokémon FireRed, with the player journeying through the Kanto region, challenging Gym Leaders, dismantling Team Rocket, and ultimately facing the Elite Four.
However, the narrative is refreshed with the inclusion of Brendan as a new rival, additional in-game events, and altered legendary encounters. While no entirely new plot is introduced, the expanded Pokémon roster and enhanced difficulty significantly change how the story unfolds during gameplay.
Key Features
- Massive Pokémon Roster: Over 900 Pokémon are available, spanning Generations 1 through 8, allowing for unprecedented team variety in a FireRed-based hack.
- Fairy Type Implementation: The Fairy type is fully integrated, including updated type matchups and moves.
- High Difficulty Mode: Trainer battles are significantly harder, with smarter AI and better Pokémon team compositions throughout the game.
- Modern Battle Mechanics: Includes the Physical/Special split, Capture EXP system, Auto Repel system, and Experience Share functionality.
- Mega Evolution in Battle: Pokémon can Mega Evolve during battles using Mega Stones, adding strategic depth to major fights.
- Gigantamax System: Certain Pokémon are capable of Gigantamax transformations, a rare feature in GBA ROM hacks.
- Regional Forms: Alolan and Galarian forms are available, expanding type diversity and tactical options.
- Reusable TMs and Poké Balls: TMs can be used infinitely, and Poké Balls are reusable, reducing resource management frustration.
- New Moves and Abilities: Numerous moves and abilities from later generations are implemented, modernizing combat.
- PSS System: Includes a Player Search System-inspired mechanic for enhanced interaction features.
- Running Shoes from Start: Players can run immediately without needing to unlock the Running Shoes later.
- Updated Graphics and Sprites: Pokémon sprites, overworld graphics, and visual assets have been upgraded.
- Improved Trainer AI: Every trainer in the game uses enhanced artificial intelligence, making battles more strategic and less predictable.
- Legendary Pokémon Access: All Legendary Pokémon are currently obtainable through the Safari Zone.
Special Pokémon Forms:
- Ash-Greninja-Z can Mega Evolve in battle using a Water Stone
- Armored Mewtwo replaces the standard Mewtwo encounter
Expanded Evolution Mechanics:
- Trade evolutions now use a Trade Stone
- Riolu evolves via happiness
Rockruff can evolve into:
- Lycanroc (Midday) by level
- Lycanroc (Midnight) using Moon Stone
- Lycanroc (Dusk) using Sun Stone
- Starter Pokémon Availability: While the player starts with Generation 1 starters, all starters from later generations are obtainable in-game.
- New Evolution Stones: Includes Ice Stone, Trade Stone, and all Mega Stones, with all stones available for purchase in Celadon City.
Known Bugs & Issues
- Legendary Pokémon placement may change in future updates, as they are currently centralized in the Safari Zone.
- Some Gigantamax and Mega Evolution animations may not be fully polished.
- Minor graphical inconsistencies may appear with certain Generation 8 sprites.
Screenshots
Download Links
Download: MediafireDeveloper Information
Developer / Team: romsprid
Source & References
Official Thread / Website: romsprid
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Pokémon Metal Red change the original FireRed story?No, the core storyline remains the same, but new rivals, events, and Pokémon significantly alter the gameplay experience.
How difficult is this hack compared to vanilla FireRed?
It is considerably harder due to improved trainer AI, stronger teams, and modern battle mechanics.
Are all generations of Pokémon available?
Yes, Pokémon from Generation 1 through Generation 8 are included.
How do trade evolutions work?
Trade evolutions are replaced with a Trade Stone, allowing solo play without link trading.
Does this hack include modern mechanics like Gigantamax?
Yes, both Mega Evolution and Gigantamax systems are implemented.
){kind=link}