Pokemon Run & Bun GBA ROM – Detailed Hack Overview
Game Information
Hack Name: Pokemon Run & Bun
Original Game (ROM Base): Pokémon Emerald
Hack Status: v1.07
Language: English
Release Type: Fan-made ROM Hack
Table Of Contents
About This ROM Hack
Pokémon Run & Bun is a difficulty ROM hack of Pokémon Emerald that draws inspiration from challenging games like Emerald Kaizo and Radical Red. This hack offers a fresh experience with a focus on improving gameplay and challenge without making it tedious. It introduces nearly 500 battles, each with custom movesets and team compositions that make each trainer feel unique. The game emphasizes creating a journey where victories feel rewarding and meaningful. Changes to the map, boss fights, and quality of life improvements further enhance the experience.
Story Overview
The story of Pokémon Run & Bun follows the protagonist as they journey through the Hoenn region. While the general plot remains faithful to the original Pokémon Emerald, the game introduces a series of new challenges, including revamped gym battles, more complex enemy teams, and added boss fights. The story unfolds in a way that keeps the player engaged with strategic, exciting battles that feel significant, rather than a grind.
Key Features
- Mechanics Updated to Gen 8: Pokémon Run & Bun updates core mechanics to match those found in Gen 8, with some additional tweaks for a more polished experience.
- Pokémon Up to Gen 8 Available: Almost 500 Pokémon from the first eight generations can be caught, giving players access to a diverse range of creatures.
- Revamped Map: The map has been modified, changing the path the player takes through Hoenn. Some previously optional areas have now become mandatory, adding to the adventure.
- Unique Trades: The game introduces new trade mechanics, offering players rare or otherwise difficult-to-obtain Pokémon.
- Custom Field Effects: Certain locations in the game feature custom field effects that increase the difficulty of battles, making strategy and planning crucial.
- Mega Evolution: Mega Evolution is available, with new opportunities to use powerful Mega forms in battle.
- Roaming Legendaries and Mythicals: Unique roaming legendaries and mythicals are added, making them harder to catch and more rewarding to obtain.
- Expanded Bag: The bag has been expanded to hold more items, making it easier for players to manage their inventory.
- Unique Move Tutors: New move tutors offer specialized moves and strategies for your Pokémon.
- No Need for HMs: HM moves are no longer necessary, streamlining exploration and cutting out the unnecessary backtracking.
- Multiple Key Items: Players can now select and equip multiple key items at once, making exploration more flexible.
- Revamped Trick House: The Trick House has been revamped, offering new puzzles and challenges.
- EVs Removed: EVs have been completely removed, simplifying training and leveling.
- Check IVs on Summary Screen: Players can now easily check a Pokémon's IVs directly from the summary screen, making it easier to assess their Pokémon's potential.
- Level Caps Tied to Boss Fights: Level caps are now tied to major boss fights, ensuring battles stay challenging and rewarding.
- Repellent Key Item: The repellent key item can be toggled on or off to avoid wild battles when desired.
- Endless Candy Key Item: An Endless Candy key item is available, granting infinite Rare Candies for leveling up Pokémon.
- NPCs at Every PC: An NPC at every PC allows players to relearn moves, maximize IVs, and change natures for a price.
- Comprehensive Documentation: Complete documentation is available online, detailing Pokémon and item locations, trainer battles, and more.
Known Bugs & Issues
- Patch Installation: The hack requires applying a patch to a clean Pokémon Emerald (U) ROM. Players should be cautious to ensure they are using the correct ROM version and the latest patch.
- Balancing Issues: As with any ROM hack, balancing may be subjective. Some players may find certain parts of the game either too difficult or too easy depending on their play style.
Screenshots
Download Links
Download: MediaFire
Documentation
Documentation: Google Drive
Developer Information
Developer / Team: dekzeh
Source & References
Official Thread / Website: pokecommunity
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who is Pokémon Run & Bun for?A: Pokémon Run & Bun is designed for players who enjoy challenging ROM hacks like Emerald Kaizo or Radical Red, but with a focus on fun, engaging difficulty rather than tedious grind. It's perfect for those who want a difficult yet rewarding experience with well-designed trainer battles and quality of life features that reduce the frustration.
Q: How are the mechanics updated in this hack?
A: The game’s mechanics are updated to match those found in Generation 8, including tweaks for battle dynamics, move mechanics, and more. The hack also incorporates some features like Mega Evolution and updates to IV/EV mechanics.
Q: What does the revamped map look like?
A: The map has been altered, and some areas that were previously optional have now become required. These changes make the journey through Hoenn feel more like an adventure, with new challenges along the way.
Q: How are the battles designed in this ROM hack?
A: Almost 500 battles are designed with custom movesets and synergistic teams. Trainers now feel unique, and battles are challenging but fair. No more stomping through easy battles — every fight feels like it’s part of a larger journey.
Q: Is there a way to manage my inventory and items better?
A: Yes, the bag has been expanded, and players can now select multiple key items at once. This gives you more flexibility in managing your inventory and planning for battles.
Q: Are there any new legendary Pokémon to catch?
A: Yes! The game features unique roaming legendaries and mythicals, adding new layers of difficulty and rewards for completionists.
Q: Do I still need to use HMs in this hack?
A: No, you no longer need to teach Pokémon HM moves. This helps streamline the gameplay and reduces backtracking, allowing you to focus on the adventure.
How to Play
Requirements
- A Game Boy Advance emulator
- A compatible ROM base
- Patch file (IPS / UPS / BPS)
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