Pokemon StarRed GBA ROM – Detailed Hack Overview
Game Information
Table Of Contents
About This ROM Hack
Pokémon StarRed is a FireRed-based ROM hack that aimed to deliver a darker, more dramatic Pokémon story combined with modern gameplay mechanics from Generations 4 and 5. While the original project has been cancelled, it served as the foundation for a full reboot titled Pokémon Saiph, which will feature major improvements in story, design, and gameplay.
StarRed experimented with advanced features rarely seen together in GBA hacks, including the Fairy type, Gen 4–5 mechanics, upgraded sprites, and extensive UI enhancements. Despite its ambitious direction, the creator chose to restart development from scratch to create a more polished and consistent experience.
Story Overview
The story follows a teenager named Nate, whose father was a scientist working on a mysterious energy source called Darklight — a power derived from Darkrai. During an experiment, Darkrai went out of control, destroying the laboratory and killing all scientists, including Nate’s father.
Searching for answers, Nate investigates the ruined lab and encounters Darkrai itself. The legendary Pokémon attacks him but, instead of killing him, teleports him to the Sen Region, the setting of the game.
Present TimelineNate awakens in an unknown place with no memory of his past. After finding his way to a small town, he becomes entangled in the plans of Shenow and the mysterious Team Void. Their goals are connected to the Darklight project — but their true intentions remain hidden as the story unfolds.
The narrative blends mystery, lost memories, legendary Pokémon, and a darker tone compared to traditional Pokémon games.
Key Features
- Generation 4–5 Pokémon Roster: Includes Pokémon from Gen 4 and Gen 5 with proper cries.
- Modern Battle Mechanics: Moves and Abilities from Generations 4 and 5 are implemented.
- Fairy Type Integration: Adds the Fairy type into the battle system.
- Physical/Special Split System: Moves are categorized individually rather than by type.
- Black & White Soundtrack: Features music tracks inspired by Pokémon Black and White.
- High-Resolution Sprites: 64×64 trainer sprites and Pokémon sprites enhance visuals.
- Reusable TMs System: TMs can be used multiple times instead of breaking.
- Expanded Evolution Items: Includes stones and items like Dusk Stone, Dawn Stone, Razor Claw, and more.
- Visible IV & Stat Coloring: Pokémon summary shows IVs and stat colors based on nature.
- Experience After Catching Pokémon: Players gain EXP for successful captures.
- Poison Survival Mechanic: Poison no longer causes fainting outside battle.
- Custom UI Elements: New textbox style, intro background, and a custom HP bar.
- New Tilesets: Updated environments beyond the default FireRed visuals.
Known Bugs & Issues
- After a flashback on Route 22, a Yes/No box may appear (select “No”)
- If the player faints, they heal in the same Pokémon Center due to a custom warp system
- The hero’s back sprite has graphical issues
Screenshots
Download Links
Download: MediafireDeveloper Information
Developer / Team: Vytron
Credits:
- Soundtrack:LukeeGD
- PSS split,new moves/abilities(Rombase):MR.Dollsteak
- Textbox/Background:KakarotPH
- Some features were inserted by TL's Quick Enhancer(IVs,TMs,Poison R. etc.):Froosty
- New Evo. Items inserted (usage/sprite): Vytron
- New HP bar: Vytron
- Tileset: Pokemon Dawn tileset by The-Red-eX/WesleyFG
- Brendan sprite sheet:hyo-oppa
Source & References
Official Thread / Website: https://www.pokecommunity.com/showthread.php?t=400628
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pokémon StarRed still being developed?
No. The project was officially cancelled, but it is being rebooted as a new game called Pokémon Saiph.
Why was StarRed cancelled?
The creator felt the original hack had design flaws, story inconsistencies, and gameplay issues, and decided to rebuild the project from scratch.
Does the game include Pokémon from later generations?
Yes. StarRed includes Pokémon, moves, and abilities from Generations 4 and 5.
Is the Fairy type available in this hack?
Yes. The Fairy type is integrated into the battle system.
What makes StarRed different from standard FireRed?
It features a darker storyline, modern mechanics, upgraded sprites, UI redesigns, and Gen 5-style music.
Does the game have a complete story?
No. The story was incomplete and one of the main reasons the creator chose to reboot the project.
Are TMs reusable in this hack?
Yes. TMs do not break after use.
Is this hack stable to play?
It is playable but contains bugs and incomplete areas since development stopped.
How to Play
To experience Pokémon StarRed, patch the ROM onto a clean Pokémon FireRed base file using a patching tool. Load the patched game on a GBA emulator or supported hardware.Keep in mind that this version is discontinued and may contain bugs, incomplete content, and design inconsistencies compared to the upcoming reboot project.
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