Pokemon SkyLine GBA ROM – Detailed Hack Overview
Game Information
Table Of Contents
About This ROM Hack
Pokémon SkyLine is a solo-developed Ruby ROM hack by destinedjagold, creator of the Ruby Destiny series — but this project is completely separate from those games. Built with a strong focus on story, exploration, and unique mechanics, the hack introduces an original tropical region, custom scripts, modified Pokémon mechanics, and non-linear Gym progression. Despite using the Ruby engine, SkyLine delivers an experience very different from vanilla Hoenn.
Story Overview
You are the son or daughter of Professor Birch in Hoenn. While traveling by ship toward the Kanto region, a violent and mysterious storm strikes. Massive groups of Water-type Pokémon attack the vessel, and the ship sinks into the ocean.
You awaken washed ashore alongside an Eevee, which chooses to accompany you. Instead of continuing to Kanto, you begin exploring a brand-new land — the Crest Region, a storm-prone tropical region surrounded by ocean.
During your journey, you meet other trainers chasing their dreams, form rivalries, and uncover the return of Team Aqua. However, their true purpose in Crest may not be what it first seems.
Key Features
- Brand-New Region – Crest: A fully original tropical region located east of Kanto, frequently affected by thunderstorms due to the surrounding ocean.
- Hoenn Protagonist Role: You play as the hero or heroine connected to Hoenn, linking your background to Professor Birch.
- Eevee Starter Pokémon: Your journey begins with Eevee, making early-game evolution choices impactful and strategic.
- Generations 1–3 Pokémon Availability: Only Kanto, Johto, and Hoenn Pokémon appear, keeping the Pokédex focused and balanced within Gen 3 limits.
- Pokémon Animations: Many Pokémon feature animated sprites, enhancing battle visuals beyond standard Ruby.
- Return of Team Aqua: The Hoenn villain team reappears, but their motives in Crest remain mysterious.
- National Dex Instead of Regional Dex: Players can unlock the National Pokédex, expanding data tracking early on.
- Optional Trainer Battles System: Trainers do not auto-battle — you must talk to them first, giving the player more control over difficulty and progression.
- Trainer Rematches After Badges: After earning certain badges, previously defeated trainers can be battled again for training opportunities.
- Gym Guide Rewards: Gym guides provide Fresh Water, rewarding players who interact with NPCs.
- Town NPC Reward System: Each town includes an NPC that gives rewards if you defeat the local Gym Leader.
- Custom Weather System: An original scripted system that affects environments and atmosphere.
- Multiple Rivals: Several rival characters appear, shaping different story interactions.
- Chip Battle Mini-Game Returns: A side mini-game mechanic included for extra gameplay variety.
- Non-Linear Gym Progression: You can choose the order of the first three Gyms, and later choose between multiple Gym Leaders again.
Known Bugs & Issues
- Tile and movement permission errors appear in some areas.
- Grammar, spelling, and textbox overflow errors exist.
- Title screen is not final due to palette issues.
- Battle delay occurs after knocking out or switching Pokémon while animations play.
- PokéCenter and Gym door animations are bugged.
- Some trainers have Pokémon stuck at Level 10.
- Pokédex “?” entries have animation errors.
- Some Level 10 Pokémon require massive EXP or jump to Level 100 with Rare Candy.
- Team Aqua members and Suicune may appear early before obtaining the Pokédex.
- Nighttime does not change palettes.
- No Physical/Special split.
- Clock is not real-time.
- Some backsprites lack animation or use original Ruby sprites.
Screenshots
Download Links
Download: MediafireDeveloper Information
Developer / Team: destinedjagold
Credits: Tool creators and community contributors including HackMew, Gamer2020, Erma96, Lan/CHAOS/IcyKerpymon, Dragoon, Barubary, and others.
Source & References
Official Thread / Website: https://www.pokecommunity.com/showthread.php?t=284906
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is SkyLine part of the Ruby Destiny series?
A: No, it is a completely separate and unrelated project.
Q: Are Gen 4 or 5 Pokémon included?
A: No, the hack focuses only on Generations 1–3.
Q: Why is Eevee the starter?
A: The developer chose Eevee for personal preference and evolution variety.
Q: Can I choose Gym order?
A: Yes, the first three Gyms and later several others can be challenged in different orders.
Q: How do I unlock the National Dex?
A: Speak with Professor Birch in the tallest building in Twinkle Town.
Q: Do trainers auto-battle?
A: No, you must talk to them to initiate battle.
Q: Are trade evolutions changed?
A: Yes, trade evolutions now use stones, levels, happiness, or other methods.
Q: Are move types changed?
A: Yes. Cut is now Grass-type, Strength is Rock-type, and Poison is strong against Water.
How to Play
- Patch onto a clean Pokémon Ruby (U) ROM.
- Use a GBA emulator or hardware.
- Start your journey with Eevee in the Crest Region.
- Explore freely, choose Gym order, and confront Team Aqua.
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