There are plenty of ways to revisit the Johto region, but one new fan-made Pokemon release is giving the classic region a surprisingly modern AND retro makeover. Built as a faithful remake of Pokemon Gold, Silver, and Crystal, but also as a demake of HeartGold and SoulSilver, this new project has a distinct visual but undeniably hits the vibes of Johto. Even though Nintendo has teased revisiting Pokemon HeartGold and SoulSilver as recently as this year, this might be the best way to do so right now.
The Pokemon fan project is built on the pokeemerald-expansion engine and includes the Gen 1-3 Pokemon roster alongside later evolutions, with some exceptions. Pokemon can also follow players through the overworld, while background Pokemon appear in certain areas to make routes and towns feel more alive. A day-and-night cycle changes wild encounters and overworld palettes, and the HG/SS soundtrack returns alongside an optional GB Player that lets players switch back to classical Gen 2 music and sounds.
A new leak claims that Pokemon Legends: Z-A was planned to be set in the Johto region before the development team chose to return to Kalos.
This project, fittingly titled...
