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{{Short description|2000 video game}} |
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{{Infobox VG |
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{{Use dmy dates|date=August 2019}} |
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|title=Pokémon Crystal |
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{{Infobox video game |
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|image=[[Image:Pokémon Crystal Coverart.png]] |
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| title = ''Pokémon Crystal'' |
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|developer=[[Game Freak]] |
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| image = File:Pokémon Crystal box art.png |
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|publisher=[[Nintendo]] |
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| caption = North American box art for ''Pokémon Crystal'', depicting the [[legendary Pokémon]] [[Suicune]] |
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|designer=[[Satoshi Tajiri]] <small>([[Game director|director]])</small><br>[[Junichi Masuda]] <small>([[Game director|co-director]])</small><br>[[Ken Sugimori]] <small> ([[artist]]) </small> |
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| developer = [[Game Freak]] |
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|engine= |
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| publisher = [[Nintendo]] |
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|released={{vgrelease|Japan|JPN|[[December 14]], [[2000]]}}<br />{{vgrelease|North America|NA|[[July 29]], [[2001]]}}<br />{{vgrelease|Australia|AUS|[[September]], [[2001]]}}<br />{{vgrelease|Europe|EUR|[[November 1]], [[2001]]}} |
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| director = [[Satoshi Tajiri]]<br />[[Junichi Masuda]] |
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|genre=[[Console role-playing game|RPG]] |
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| producer = {{Unbulleted list|[[Satoru Iwata]]|Satoshi Yamamoto|[[Shigeru Miyamoto]]|[[Tsunekazu Ishihara]]}} |
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|modes=[[Single player]]<br />[[Multiplayer]] |
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| designer = Junichi Masuda<br />Koji Nishino<br />Toshinobu Matsumiya |
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|ratings=[[ESRB]]: E<br />[[Office of Film and Literature Classification (Australia)|OFLC]]: G8+ |
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| programmer = Shigeki Morimoto<br />Tetsuya Watanabe<br />Takenori Ohta |
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|platforms=[[Game Boy Color]] |
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| artist = [[Ken Sugimori]] |
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|media=[[Cartridge (electronics)|Cartridge]] |
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| writer = {{Unbulleted list|Junichi Masuda|Koji Nishino|Toshinobu Matsumiya|}} |
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|requirements= |
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| composer = {{Unbulleted list|Junichi Masuda|Morikazu Aoki|[[Go Ichinose]]}} |
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|input= |
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| series = ''[[Pokémon (video game series)|Pokémon]]'' |
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| platforms = [[Game Boy Color]] |
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| released = {{Video game release|JP|December 14, 2000|NA|July 29, 2001|AUS|September 30, 2001|EU|November 2, 2001}} |
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| genre = [[Role-playing video game|Role-playing]] |
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| modes = [[Single-player]], [[multiplayer]] |
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}} |
}} |
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{{nihongo foot|'''''Pokémon Crystal Version'''''|ポケットモンスター クリスタルバージョン|Poketto Monsutā Kurisutaru Bājon|"Pocket Monsters: Crystal Version"|lead=yes|group=lower-alpha}} is a [[role-playing video game]] developed by [[Game Freak]] and published by [[Nintendo]] for the [[Game Boy Color]] in Japan in 2000 and internationally in 2001. The game is an enhanced edition of the 1999 titles [[Pokémon Gold and Silver|''Pokémon Gold'' and ''Silver'']] and the final of the second generation of games in the [[Pokémon]] franchise. ''Crystal'' featured several additions to the core gameplay of its predecessors, including additional story elements, the inclusion of the Battle Tower, the option to play as a male or female player character, visual enhancements to the [[sprite (computer graphics)|sprite]] animations of Pokémon, and other minor fixes and improvements. The Japanese version of the game also showcased the capabilities of the Mobile System GB, a [[video game accessory|peripheral]] released with the game that allowed players to trade and battle with each other over cell phones and a paid subscription service. These enhancements were enabled by the improved capabilities of the Game Boy Color, consequently it was the first game in the series to not be compatible with the [[Game Boy]]. |
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Released following the commercial success of [[Pokémon Gold and Silver|''Pokémon Gold'' and ''Silver'']], ''Crystal'' experienced similar commercial and critical acclaim, with the combined titles forming [[List of best-selling Game Boy video games|the best-selling game]] for the Game Boy Color and the third-best-selling game for the [[Game Boy]] family of handheld consoles. Critics praised ''Crystal'' for its additional features and improvements, whilst noting that many of the features in the non-Japanese version of the game, which lacked the Mobile System GB, were minor in nature. Retrospective assessment of ''Crystal'' has been highly positive, with several critics noting the game's introduction of a range of features that would become commonplace in later iterations of the Pokémon franchise, and its role in maintaining interest during a waning period for the franchise. Later generations of Pokémon games followed ''Crystal''{{'s}} model of releasing an enhanced version following the primary games, such as Generation III's ''[[Pokémon Emerald]]'' and Generation IV's ''[[Pokémon Platinum]]''. |
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==Story== |
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Pokémon Crystal starts off with the player receiving one of four Pokémon, [[Pichu]], [[Chikorita]], [[Totodile]], or [[Cyndaquil]] from [[Professor Elm]]. Elm will then tell the player to visit Mr. Pokémon, who will give the player a mystery egg. Soon after, Elm will call the player to return quickly to his office. On the way, the player will encounter a red haired boy who will challenge the player, and it is discovered that he stole one of the Pokémon from Elm. Afterwards, Elm tells the player to go out and earn Pokémon Badges from the Eight [[List of Johto Gym Leaders|Johto Gym Leaders]] from around the [[Johto]] Region. This begins the player's journey. After defeating the Eight Gym Leaders, the player will be invited to the [[Indigo Plateau]], home of the [[Elite Four]]. After being victorious over the Elite Four and the [[Lance (Pokémon)|Champion Lance]], the player will be invited to try the [[Kanto (Pokémon)|Kanto Challenge]] where can be seen the changes from the days of [[Pokémon Red and Blue]]. After defeating the next eight leaders, the player is given a ticket to [[Mt. Silver]], where you can fight [[Red (Pokémon)|Red]], the player from Pokémon Red/Blue/Yellow. |
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== |
== Gameplay == |
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''Pokémon Crystal'' was the first in the Game Boy series to allow players to choose the gender of their character. Also added was a subplot involving the [[legendary Pokémon]] [[Suicune]] and a man named [[List of Pokémon characters|Eusine]] hoping to catch it. One of the game’s biggest additions was the Battle Tower, a new building added west of [[List of Johto locations#Olivine City|Olivine City]] which allowed players to participate in [[Pokémon Stadium]]-like fights. |
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Another change, noticeable when first starting the game, was that all Pokémon had animated battle sprites once a battle began. For example, when Cyndaquil entered battle, the flames on its back flickered. This feature later returned in ''[[Pokémon Emerald]]'' and [[Pokémon Diamond and Pearl (video games)|''Pokémon Diamond'' and ''Pearl'']]. However, all games after Crystal that included animated battle sprites merely moved the actual sprite around itself (like rotating, stretching, etc.) while switching between only two poses. Crystal had full, multi-frame animations for each Pokémon. |
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{{See also|Gameplay of Pokémon{{!}}Gameplay of ''Pokémon''|Pokémon Gold and Silver#Gameplay{{!}}''Pokémon Gold'' and ''Silver''#Gameplay}} |
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Although seemingly a minor change, extra grass was added to the route west of Violet City, and in this grass, [[Growlithe]] can be caught, allowing players to acquire a Fire-type Pokémon much earlier than in other versions (assuming they did not choose [[Cyndaquil]]), and making a large difference in the availability of Fire-types for areas like the Azalea Gym and the Sprout Tower, where Fire-types are optimal. Areas like the Icy Path and Lance's chamber at the Indigo Plateau received alternate designs as well. |
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Similar to ''Pokémon Gold'' and ''Silver'', ''Pokémon Crystal'' is a [[role-playing video game]] where players navigate a fictional world by capturing, training, and battling with Pokémon. In addition, ''Crystal'' enhances aspects of ''Gold'' and ''Silver'', providing cosmetic and gameplay improvements. The visual presentation of ''Crystal'' is enhanced through the animation of Pokémon [[sprite (computer graphics)|sprites]] when first encountered in battle, the inclusion of signposts appearing on the screen when entering a new area, and a range of minor graphical enhancements to various locations in the game.<ref name=NOM /> It includes the ability to select one of two player characters, adding Kris, a female trainer, with a unique sprite.<ref name=NOM2 /> The game introduces a Battle Tower, a new stadium that allows players to battle a series of seven trainers with three Pokémon set at customizable maximum levels to win prizes.<ref name=NOM2>{{cite journal|journal=Nintendo Official Magazine|title=Pokémon Crystal|date=October 2001|pages=6–11|url=https://archive.org/details/NintendoOfficialMagazine109/page/n5}}</ref> |
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Some trainers were repositioned about the map. Previously, trainers who called on the cell phone all said the same thing with only the names of the Pokémon they reference. Trainers are now given distinct personalities (one talks about shopping, another about grooming), and call for reasons other than battling, such as giving the player items or informing them of a rare Pokémon appearing (Wade gives the player Berries, Alan gives them a Fire Stone, etc). |
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== Mobile System GB == |
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There were also some changes made to the [[List of Johto locations#Ruins of Alph|Ruins of Alph]]. This included more common [[Unown]], as well as a new subplot — completing enough puzzles lets the player read a secret message left behind by the Unown. It suggested that the Unown were left behind by the ancient civilization that constructed the Ruins of Alph, and that the statues that lined the interior were made by the Unown. |
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[[File:Pokemon Crystal Mobile System GB.webp|thumb|Players with the Mobile System GB adapter and service could trade Pokémon online ]] |
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[[Image:Croconaw screen.png|thumb|right|Screenshot of ''Pokémon Crystal'', portraying a player’s Level 18 [[Croconaw]], battling a Level 13 [[Snubbull]].]] The player would also receive a new “Odd Egg” from the Daycare Couple for free. This egg can hatch into [[Magby]], [[Smoochum]], [[Pichu]], [[Igglybuff]], [[Cleffa]], [[Tyrogue]], [[Marill]] or [[Elekid]], with a boosted 50% chance of the baby being “shiny”. It will always be female, except for Tyrogue (which never are), and will also know Dizzy Punch, a move previously exclusive to [[Kangaskhan]]. This was in addition to the [[Togepi]] egg that players would receive earlier in the game, making two eggs they would get in the game without any breeding. |
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The Japanese release of ''Pokémon Crystal'' supported the Mobile System GB, an adapter and paid online service connecting a [[Game Boy Color]] unit to cellular phones for [[wireless networking]] between devices.<ref>{{cite journal|journal=Gamers Republic|issue=29|title=Spaceworld 2000: The Dawn of GameCube|pages=6–8|url=https://archive.org/details/Gamers_Republic_Issue_29/page/n7}}</ref> The Mobile System GB enabled players to battle and trade with players online, read news, take quizzes, play minigames, and connect the game to a [[Nintendo 64]] using a 64 GB Pack to play battles using the data from ''[[Pokémon Stadium 2]]''.<ref name=Nintendo>{{cite web|website=Nintendo|title=Pokémon Crystal Version|date=2000|url=http://www.nintendo.co.jp/n07/contents/mc_bxpj/index.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20021106002754/http://www.nintendo.co.jp/n07/contents/mc_bxpj/index.html |archive-date=6 November 2002|accessdate=25 November 2023 }}</ref> Features were dependent on a paid subscription with the service provider, incurring a monthly service fee for each feature between {{Yen|10 to 100|link=yes}} (equivalent to ¥{{Inflation|index=JP|value=10|start_year=2001|r=2}} to {{Inflation|index=JP|value=100|start_year=2001}} in {{Inflation year|index=JP}}). |
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The chain of events to obtain the Rising Badge is altered. Where previously, it involved a trip to the Dragon’s Den to retrieve the Dragon Fang, it now involves entering the Dragon Shrine within the Den. There, [[List of Johto Gym Leaders#Clair|Clair]]’s grandfather and leader of the dragon-user clan quizzes the player on their style of battling. Clair arrives and still refuses to hand over her badge after the player passes. In response, her grandfather threatens to tell [[List of Elite Four members#Lance|Lance]], of whom Clair is terrified. If all the questions are answered correctly, the player will receive an Extreme Speed Dratini upon returning and speaking with Clair's grandfather. |
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The Mobile System GB was launched in Japan on 14 December 2000. However, Nintendo ultimately made the decision to not release the Mobile System GB in markets other than Japan.<ref>{{cite journal|journal=Total Game Boy|title=2001: A Game Boy Odyssey|pages=11|issue=15|date=January 2001|url=https://archive.org/details/Total_Game_Boy_Issue_15/page/n9}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal|journal=Gamers Republic|pages=73|title=Pokemon Crystal|last=Hoffman|first=Chris|issue=35|date=July 2001|url=https://archive.org/details/Gamers_Republic_Issue_35}}</ref> Journalists speculated reasons for this decision, including conflicts in international cell phone standards, and the lack of mobile infrastructure in other countries.<ref>{{cite magazine|magazine=Electronic Gaming Monthly|title=Game Boy Advance|date=19 May 2021 |pages=86|url=https://archive.org/details/electronic-gaming-monthly-issue-144-july-2001/page/86}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine|magazine=Electronic Gaming Monthly|title=Game Boy Goes Mobile|page=39|date=November 2000|url=https://archive.org/details/electronic-gaming-monthly-issue-136-november-2000}}</ref> Commenting from an American perspective, ''[[IGN]]'' noted that "billing and popularity of [[cellular phones]] are very different than in America, and (the Japanese) market is designed specifically for devices such as this. It might not be practical for Nintendo to release the device here...it's questionable whether enough young gamers would have a cellular phone to use it with."<ref name="IGN2">{{cite web|website=IGN|title=Pokémon Bundles Up In Japan|date=21 December 2000|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2000/12/21/pokamon-bundles-up-in-japan|accessdate=25 November 2023|archive-date=11 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231211192152/https://www.ign.com/articles/2000/12/21/pokamon-bundles-up-in-japan|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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<!-- Deleted image removed: [[Image:Chris111.jpg|190px|thumb|left|Gold, the playable character of Pokémon Crystal.]] --> |
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The Mobile System GB network remained active until 14 December 2002.<ref name=Nintendo /> |
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In order to obtain the Rainbow Wing (the item needed to reach <!--DO NOT CHANGE-->[[Ho-Oh|Ho‑Oh]]<!--The hyphen to the right of the pipe is a special [[Non-breaking hyphen#Hyphens in computing]] which prevents the name Ho‑Oh from being broken when the size or resolution of the browser puts it at the end of a line.-->), the player must catch the three legendary beasts ([[Raikou (Pokémon)|Raikou]], [[Entei (Pokémon)|Entei]], and [[Suicune]], the latter now requiring the Clear Bell and a visit to the Tin Tower), and defeat the [[Elite Four]], then go to the Tin Tower to receive the item. |
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== Plot == |
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Also, this game was the first to have a special [[background music#Video game music|background music]] track for legendary Pokémon. Whenever Raikou, Entei, or Suicune appeared, a distorted battle start would play, and then an entirely new song (exclusive to this event) would play for their battles. |
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{{See also|Pokémon Gold and Silver#Plot{{!}}''Pokémon Gold'' and ''Silver''#Plot}} |
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The setting and story of ''Crystal'' remains largely the same as in ''Gold'' and ''Silver'', with the player seeking to raise and battle Pokémon to defeat the Gym Leaders of Johto and [[List of Pokémon characters#Gym leaders and Elite Four|Elite Four]] to be the Pokémon League Champion. However, several encounters and additional characters are introduced to the overarching narrative. ''Crystal'' features a greater role for legendary Pokémon, with the player awakening [[Suicune]], [[Entei]], and [[Raikou]], and encountering them at various stages of the game. The plotline features a new character, Eusine, who has been searching for Suicune, providing the player with a more direct and narrative pathway to battling and capturing Suicune and the remainder of the game's legendary Pokémon.<ref name=NOM2 /> ''Crystal'' also includes minor changes to how the player encounters the Gym Leader Clair, and additions to the role of the Pokémon [[Unown]] in the Ruins of Alph, with players able to complete additional puzzles to receive rewards and messages from the Unown.<ref name=NOM>{{cite journal|journal=Nintendo Official Magazine|pages=32–35|title=Pokémon Crystal|date=March 2001|url=https://archive.org/details/NintendoOfficialMagazine102/page/n31}}</ref> |
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Another feature introduced in ''Crystal'' and later reused in later games is the Move Tutor. After the Elite Four is defeated, a man would start appearing twice a week who would teach the player’s Pokémon one of three moves – Flamethrower, Ice Beam, or Thunderbolt. In ''Crystal'', this required 4000 coins from the Game Corner in [[List of Johto locations#Goldenrod City|Goldenrod City]]. |
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== Development and release == |
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In ''Pokémon Crystal'', due to the girl not being in Pokémon Gold or Silver, the female trainer automatically changes to the male sprite when trading with Gold or Silver. |
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''Crystal'' was developed by [[Game Freak]] in 1999 following the release of [[Pokémon Gold and Silver|''Pokémon Gold'' and ''Silver'']].<ref name=IGN3>{{cite web|website=IGN Pocket|title=Networking Pokémon |date=16 December 1999|url=http://pocket.ign.com/news/13341.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000303114916/http://pocket.ign.com/news/13341.html |archive-date=3 March 2000 |accessdate=25 November 2023}}</ref> ''Crystal'' was the first Pokémon game to feature [[Junichi Masuda]] as a lead director, who had previously been a composer for the Pokémon franchise and sub-director for ''Gold'' and ''Silver''.<ref>{{cite magazine|magazine=Nintendo Power|issue=240|date=April 2009|title=Talking Pokémon |pages=42|url=https://ia803406.us.archive.org/35/items/nintendo-power-issue-240-april-2009/Nintendo%20Power%20Issue%20240%20%28April%202009%29.pdf}}</ref> Nintendo initially announced development of ''Crystal'' and the Mobile System GB in December 1999, with the game developed under the working title of ''Pokémon X''. Artist [[Ken Sugimori]] stated that ''Crystal'' was primarily developed to support [[Nintendo]]'s launch of the Mobile System GB. Masuda noted that the title of the game was intended to be associated with the "crystals used in electronic transmissions".<ref>{{cite journal|journal=Nintendo Dream|volume=84|date=February–March 2003|pages=117–119|title=ポケットモンスタールビー・サファイア 大ヒット記念ロングインタビュー|url=https://lavacutcontent.com/sugimori-masuda-gen-3-interview/|access-date=17 March 2023|archive-date=17 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230317075036/https://lavacutcontent.com/sugimori-masuda-gen-3-interview/|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Nintendo]] president [[Hiroshi Yamauchi]] stated that "''Pokémon'', which incorporates elements of exchange and 'collection', would be the best way to get people to understand the new genre of games that use mobile phones."<ref>{{cite web|website=Asahi Shimbun|title="Pokemon" remote exchange with mobile phone-Nintendo |
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|date=16 December 1999|url=http://www.asahi.com/tech/news/19991216h.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000303153731/http://www.asahi.com/tech/news/19991216h.html |
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|archive-date=3 March 2000|accessdate=25 November 2023 |
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}}</ref> |
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Nintendo first previewed ''Crystal'' and the ''Mobile System GB'' at [[Nintendo Space World|Space World]] in August 2000.<ref name="TGB">{{cite journal |date=December 2000 |title=GBC Mobile Adapters Delayed |url=https://archive.org/details/Total_Game_Boy_Issue_14 |journal=Total Game Boy |page=7}}</ref> ''Crystal'' was released in Japan on 27 January 2001, following delays to ensure the game could be bundled with the Mobile Adapter GB.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gameboy.ign.com/articles/135/135402p1.html|title=Pokemon Crystal Version Preview|website=[[IGN]]|first=Marc|last=Nix|date=2000-12-11|access-date=2008-07-06|archive-date=13 June 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110613232852/http://gameboy.ign.com/articles/135/135402p1.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Nintendo previewed the release of Crystal for North America at [[E3]] in May 2001,<ref>{{cite magazine|magazine=Nintendo Power|issue=Nintendo Power's Guide to E3 2001|publisher=Future Media|title=The Next Pokemon|date=2001|pages=8|url=https://archive.org/details/4000height/page/n19/mode/2up?q=%22pokemon+crystal%22}}</ref> and released the game in North America on July 29, 2001, Australia on September 30, 2001, and Europe on November 2, 2001.<ref name="IGN" /> Promotional releases of Crystal in [[North America]] included packaging of the game with lime green models of the [[Game Boy Color]], sold as the Pokémon Crystal Bundle.<ref>{{cite journal|journal=Game Boy Xtreme|title=Pokémon Crystal Game Boy Bundle|pages=8|date=August 2001|url=https://archive.org/details/GBX-Magazine-Print-Collection/02%20GBX%20August%202001/page/n7}}</ref> Following its release, Crystal was also made available on the [[Nintendo eShop]] for the [[Nintendo 3DS]] line of handheld consoles on 28 January 2018.<ref>{{cite web|website=BusinessWire|title=Nintendo News: Pokémon Crystal Coming to Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS on Jan. 26|date=14 December 2017|url=https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171214005297/en/Nintendo-News-Pok%C3%A9mon-Crystal-Coming-to-Nintendo-eShop-on-Nintendo-3DS-on-Jan.-26|accessdate=25 November 2023|archive-date=26 November 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231126041422/https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171214005297/en/Nintendo-News-Pok%C3%A9mon-Crystal-Coming-to-Nintendo-eShop-on-Nintendo-3DS-on-Jan.-26|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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===Mobile Phone System (Japan only)=== |
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In the Japanese version of Crystal, the player could link up with others through the use of a [[mobile phone]]. The Goldenrod City [[Pokémon Center]] was replaced by a much larger building which included the machine to use this feature. Using the mobile phone link-up would give the player an extra item, a GS Ball. After taking the Ball to Kurt in [[List of Johto locations#Azalea Town|Azalea Town]] to examine, the player would place the GS Ball in the [[List of Johto locations#Ilex Forest|Ilex Forest]] shrine. This would cause a level 30 [[Celebi]] to fly down and attack the player. |
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== Reception == |
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Two [[GameShark]] codes can be used to activate the GS Ball related events and eventually catch [[Celebi]] in the English version of ''Crystal''. Why this was not available in the United States has never been officially revealed; Nintendo says that they had [[FCC]] issues (the mobile adapter system did not make the cut, but the maps and text for the system are in English ''Crystal''), but it is most likely because children with cell phones were not nearly as common outside Japan in 2001 and to the plethora of different styles of phones in use in the US. |
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{{Video game reviews |
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<!-- Aggregators --> |
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| GR = 80%<ref name="GR">{{cite web|url=https://www.gamerankings.com/gbc/375087-pokemon-crystal-version/index.html|title=Pokemon Crystal Version|publisher=[[GameRankings]]|access-date=2018-12-14|archive-date=4 June 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190604105225/https://www.gamerankings.com/gbc/375087-pokemon-crystal-version/index.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> |
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<!-- Reviewers --> |
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| EGM = 7.0 / 7.5 / 3.5<ref name=EGM>{{cite magazine|magazine=Electronic Gaming Monthly|issue=147|date=October 2001|title=Pokémon Crystal|pages=160|first1=Chris|first2=Jeanne|first3=Mark|last1=Johnston|last2=Kim|last3=MacDonald|url=https://archive.org/details/electronic-gaming-monthly-issue-147-october-2001/page/160}}</ref> |
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| Fam = 34/40<ref>{{cite journal|script-title=ja:ゲームボーイ – ポケットモンスター クリスタルバージョン|language=ja|journal=[[Weekly Famitsu]]|issue= 915 Pt.2 |page=109 |date=30 June 2006}}</ref> |
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| GSpot = 8.4/10<ref name="GSpot">{{cite web |url=https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/pokmon-crystal-review/1900-2799920/ |title=Pokemon Crystal for Game Boy Color Review |website=[[GameSpot]] |first=Frank |last=Provo |date=17 May 2006 |accessdate=25 November 2023 |archive-date=11 December 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231211215756/https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/pokmon-crystal-review/1900-2799920/ |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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| IGN = 9/10<ref name=IGN>{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2001/07/30/pokemon-crystal-2|title=Pokemon Crystal|website=[[IGN]]|first=Craig|last=Harris|date=31 July 2001|accessdate=25 November 2023|archive-date=16 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120816133641/http://gameboy.ign.com/articles/165/165402p1.html|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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| NLife = 9/10<ref name="NLife-review">{{cite web|last=Joshi|first=Arjun|url=http://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/3ds-eshop/pokemon_crystal_version|title=Pokémon Crystal Version Review|website=[[Nintendo Life]]|date=2018-01-26|access-date=2018-12-14|archive-date=15 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181215022338/http://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/3ds-eshop/pokemon_crystal_version|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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| NP = {{rating|4|5}}<ref name="NP">{{cite magazine|title=Pokemon Crystal Version|magazine=Nintendo Power |date=August 2001 |volume=147 |page=114 |url=https://archive.org/details/nintendo-power-issue-147-august-2001_202111/page/114/mode/2up}}</ref> |
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| RPGFan = 70%<ref name=RPG>{{cite web|website=RPG Fan|author=Silverwolf X|title=Pokemon Crystal|url=http://www.rpgfan.com/reviews/pokemoncrys/Pokemon_Crystal.html|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20190409005838/http://www.rpgfan.com/reviews/pokemoncrys/Pokemon_Crystal.html|archivedate=9 April 2019|accessdate=11 February 2024}}</ref> |
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<!-- Custom reviewers --> |
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| rev1 = ''Game Boy Xtreme'' |
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| rev1Score = 80%<ref name=GBX>{{cite magazine|magazine=Game Boy Xtreme|title=Pokemon Crystal|pages=30–31|last=Brew|first=Simon|date=October 2001|url=https://archive.org/details/GBX-Magazine-Print-Collection/04%20GBX%20October%202001/page/n29}}</ref> |
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| rev2 = ''Nintendo Gamer'' |
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| rev2Score = 88%<ref name=NG>{{cite journal|journal=Nintendo Gamer|title=Pokémon Crystal|pages=35|date=November 2001|last=Starr|first=Kelly|url=https://archive.org/details/nintendo-gamer-4-november-2001/page/n33}}</ref> |
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| rev3 = ''Pocket Games'' |
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| rev3Score = 8/10<ref name=PGM /> |
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}} |
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===Pokémon Stadium 2=== |
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Like ''[[Pokémon Gold and Silver|Gold]]'' and ''[[Pokémon Gold and Silver|Silver]]'', the game could be used in ''[[Pokémon Stadium 2]]'' via a [[Transfer Pak]] much in the same way as the other games, but with a few changes. When Crystal is put into the Transfer Pak, info is added to Earl's Pokémon Academy that shows the availability of Pokémon in the Crystal version and remains in the game even when Crystal is not in the Transfer Pak. The game takes considerably longer time to load at the GB Tower compared to the other versions, and comes with its own loading screen, which shows the current Pokémon in the party. Another notable change is in the battle modes of ''[[Pokémon Stadium 2]]''. When using non-registered Crystal Version [[Pokémon]], the trainer's picture that represents the player is female, regardless of whether or not the trainer is a male. |
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Critical reception to ''Pokémon Crystal'' upon release was generally positive, with reviewers praising the variety of additional features added to the game. Writing for ''[[GameSpot]]'', Frank Provo stated that the game's additions provide "a great deal of value", highlighting the features that "enhance and broaden the game's overall variety", including timed events, quality of life improvements and visual embellishments.<ref name=GSpot /> ''[[Nintendo Power]]'' highlighted the addition of the Battle Tower, finding the feature a "truly challenging" addition that would appeal to "hard-core fans".<ref name=NP /> Kelly Starr of ''Nintendo Gamer'' found "enough little differences" to make the game a "worthwhile addition," directing praise at the ability to play as a female trainer, the inclusion of location signs, and the enhanced animations.<ref name=NG /> |
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==Pokémon== |
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In total, there are 251 Pokémon that can be used in ''Pokémon Crystal''. However, in ''Crystal'' alone, there are only 224 Pokémon that can be caught, 223 outside of Japan due to the removal of Celebi being catchable from non-Japanese versions of the game. For 27 of the 28 additional Pokémon, the player would have to trade with ''[[Pokémon Red and Blue|Red]]'', ''[[Pokémon Red and Blue|Blue]]'', ''[[Pokémon Yellow|Yellow]]'', ''[[Pokémon Gold and Silver|Gold]]'', and ''[[Pokémon Gold and Silver|Silver]]''. |
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Many critics considered the additions to ''Crystal'' insubstantial and difficult to distinguish from ''Gold'' and ''Silver''. Craig Harris of ''[[IGN]]'' noted the game featured improvements to the overall design," but found the cosmetic changes to be "very little", expressing frustration that the title was the "same game engine" that had been used for several years.<ref name=IGN /> Simon Brew of ''Game Boy Xtreme'' found "little else on offer" for long-time players,<ref name=GBX /> remarking that the game "stretched the traditional formula as far as it could go".<ref>{{cite journal|journal=Game Boy Xtreme|title=News|pages=6|last=Brew|first=Simon|date=July 2001 |url=https://archive.org/details/GBX-Magazine-Print-Collection/11%20GBX%20May%202002%20%28Final%20Issue%202%20Games%20as%20free%20gift%29/page/n5}}</ref> Chris Johnston for ''[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]]'' stated the additions "don't alter the game-playing experience at all," suggesting the changes should have been part of the original game.<ref name=EGM /> Chris Thompson of ''Pocket Games'' conceded that the game was an "excellent" introduction for new players, but its additions were insufficient to justify a repeat purchase.<ref name=PGM>{{cite magazine|magazine=Pocket Games|issue=7|date=Winter 2001|pages=22|last=Thompson|first=Chris|title=Pokemon Crystal|url=https://archive.org/details/PocketGamesVol07Winter2001/page/n21}}</ref> |
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{{Pokémon games}} |
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=== Sales === |
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[[Category:Pokémon RPGs]] |
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Although not as comparatively successful as [[Pokémon Gold and Silver|''Pokémon Gold'' and ''Silver'']] and successive Pokémon releases, ''Crystal'' was a minor commercial success. Upon release in Japan, the game topped weekly sales charts,<ref>{{cite magazine|magazine=Electronic Gaming Monthly|date=March 2001|title=Japan Top 10|pages=42|url=https://archive.org/details/electronic-gaming-monthly-issue-140-march-2001_202301/page/n43}}</ref> and sold a total of 1,871,307 copies, making it the second most successful [[Game Boy Color]] game in the country.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://www.famitsu.com/news/201810/21165560.html |title=【GBC20周年企画(2)】いちばん売れたゲームボーイカラー専用ソフトは『遊☆戯☆王DM4』! では2位は? GBC専用ソフト販売ランキングTOP10! |language=ja |page=1 |date=2018-10-21 |magazine=[[Famitsu]] |publisher=[[Enterbrain]] |access-date=2018-10-21 |archive-date=3 June 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190603041902/https://www.famitsu.com/news/201810/21165560.html |url-status=live}}</ref> In the rest of the world, ''Crystal'' was the best-selling [[Nintendo]] title for [[Game Boy]] consoles in the month of January 2002,<ref>{{cite magazine|magazine=Nintendo Power|title=Power Charts|issue=152|pages=14|date=January 2002|url=https://ia800701.us.archive.org/25/items/NintendoPower1988-2004/Nintendo%20Power%20Issue%20152%20(January%202002).pdf}}</ref> and remained in the ''[[Nintendo Power]]'' top-ten charts for the rest of the year.<ref>{{cite magazine|magazine=Nintendo Power|title=Power Charts|issue=163|pages=20|date=December 2002|url=https://archive.org/details/NintendoPower1988-2004/Nintendo%20Power%20Issue%20163%20%28December%202002%29/page/n11}}</ref> In the United States, ''Crystal'' reportedly sold 600,000 units in the first two weeks of release.<ref>{{cite web|website=Puget Sound Business Journal|title=Nintendo's latest game sells 600,000 copies in two weeks|date=14 August 2001|url=https://www.bizjournals.com/seattle/stories/2001/08/13/daily10.html|accessdate=25 November 2023}}</ref> Internationally, ''Crystal'' sold 6.3 million units in comparison to the 23.7 million units sold of ''Pokémon Gold'' and ''Silver''.<ref>{{cite web|website=Gamepur|last=Duran|first=Misael|title=The most popular Pokémon games of all time, ranked by sales|date=3 August 2022|url=https://www.gamepur.com/guides/the-most-popular-pokemon-games-of-all-time-ranked-by-sales|accessdate=25 November 2023|archive-date=15 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215150931/https://www.gamepur.com/guides/the-most-popular-pokemon-games-of-all-time-ranked-by-sales|url-status=live}}</ref> To date, the game remains the least commercially successful mainline ''Pokémon'' release by units sold, attributable to the reduced interest in enhanced versions of ''Pokémon'' titles.<ref>{{cite web|website=Games Industry.biz|last=Dring|first=Christopher|title=The biggest Pokémon game launches in UK history|date=21 November 2022|url=https://www.gamesindustry.biz/the-biggest-pok-mon-game-launches-in-uk-history-uk-time-tunnel|accessdate=25 November 2023|archive-date=11 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231211184716/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/the-biggest-pok-mon-game-launches-in-uk-history-uk-time-tunnel|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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[[Category:Game Boy Color games]] |
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== Legacy == |
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Retrospective reviews of ''Crystal'' have praised the game as one of the best titles in the Pokémon franchise. Darryn Bonthuys of ''[[GameSpot]]'' stated ''Crystal'' was "the definitive Pokémon game of the Game Boy era" and one of the best Game Boy Color titles, highlighting its "revolutionary" animations and story.<ref>{{cite web|website=GameSpot|title=Best Game Boy Color Games of All Time|date=22 April 2022|last=Bonthuys|first=Darryn|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/best-game-boy-color-games-of-all-time/1100-6496925/|accessdate=25 November 2023|archive-date=1 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230401163213/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/best-game-boy-color-games-of-all-time/1100-6496925/|url-status=live}}</ref> Chris Tapsell of ''[[Eurogamer]]'' praised ''Crystal'' as "the best Pokémon game" due to its "peerless artistry", the and "quaint, restricted painterly presentation" of its animations.<ref name=EG2>{{cite web|website=Eurogamer|title=Why Pokémon Crystal will always be the best Pokémon game|date=26 January 2018|last=Tapsell|first=Chris|url=https://www.eurogamer.net/why-pokemon-crystal-will-always-be-the-best-pokemon-game|accessdate=25 November 2023|archive-date=12 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231212194131/https://www.eurogamer.net/why-pokemon-crystal-will-always-be-the-best-pokemon-game|url-status=live}}</ref> Arjun Joshi of ''Nintendo Life'' remarked that ''Crystal'' "(added) even more life to an already vibrant game", praising the game's animations and "captivating and memorable" additions to the game's plot.<ref name=NL /> |
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Many reviewers have also observed that ''Crystal'' pioneered features that would become standard in successive Pokémon games, including the pattern of an enhanced version following the release of the primary games in a generation,<ref>{{cite journal|journal=Retro Gamer|issue=135|page=27|title=The Evolution of Pokémon|date=November 2014|url=https://archive.org/details/RetroGamer_135}}</ref> the selection of the player character's gender,<ref>{{cite journal|journal=Computer and Video Games|issue=259|last=Sutton|first=Maura|title=Pokémon Ruby & Sapphire|date=May 2003|url=https://archive.org/details/Computer_and_Video_Games_Issue_0259/page/74|quote=You then get the option of choosing your main character's gender, just like in Pokémon Crystal.}}</ref> an overarching narrative featuring [[The Chosen One (trope)|chosen one]] themes,<ref name=EG2 /><ref name=DS /> and the inclusion of a Battle Tower feature.<ref name=NL>{{cite web|website=Nintendo Life|title=Feature: Why We're Still Playing... Pokémon Gold/Silver/Crystal|last=Joshi|first=Arjun|date=8 November 2015|url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2015/11/feature_why_were_still_playing_pokemon_gold_silver_crystal|accessdate=25 November 2023|archive-date=15 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215165203/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2015/11/feature_why_were_still_playing_pokemon_gold_silver_crystal|url-status=live}}</ref> Tomas Franzese of ''Dual Shockers'' notes that the game was important in establishing "multiple precedents" for the series and its future direction.<ref name=DS>{{cite web|website=Dual Shockers|last=Franzese|first=Tomas|title=Pokémon Crystal Review – Its Importance is Crystal Clear|date=4 February 2018|url=https://www.dualshockers.com/pokemon-crystal-review/|accessdate=25 November 2023|archive-date=17 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230317075038/https://www.dualshockers.com/pokemon-crystal-review/|url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[Nintendo Power]]'' commented that whilst the innovation of the Mobile System GB was confined to the Japanese market, its design also served as a major influence for portable networking features of later [[Nintendo]] products, including the Game Boy Advance Wireless Adapter and [[Nintendo DS]].<ref>{{cite magazine|magazine=Nintendo Power|publisher=Future Media|issue=20 Years of Nintendo Power|date=2009|title=Game Boy|pages=19|url=https://archive.org/details/20-years-of-nintendo-power/20%20years%20of%20Nintendo%20Power/page/18}}</ref> |
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Some writers have also expressed that ''Crystal'' assisted the franchise to maintain appeal during a transitional period. Arana Judith of ''Well Played'' characterised ''Crystal'' as the end point of the original vision and design for the franchise due the end of the [[Game Boy Color]] life cycle and the increasing fatigue with Pokémon in popular culture.<ref name=WP>{{cite web|website=Well Played|last=Judith|first=Arana|title=Pokémon Crystal Version: The End Of The Beginning|date=15 December 2020|url=https://www.well-played.com.au/pokemon-crystal-version-the-end-of-the-beginning/|accessdate=25 November 2023|archive-date=11 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231211210256/https://www.well-played.com.au/pokemon-crystal-version-the-end-of-the-beginning/|url-status=live}}</ref> This fatigue was reflected by contemporary critics who had predicted that ''Crystal'' arrived at a waning point of interest in the franchise.<ref name=EGM /><ref name=GBX /><ref name=PGM /> Judith wrote that whilst ''Ruby'' and ''Sapphire'' would reinforce the longevity of the series, the game was released in the context of the general public "seeing Pokémon merchandise fade from shelves" suggesting that "the Pokémania that had swept those last years of the 20th century was truly on its way out".<ref name=WP /> Rhiannon Bevan of ''TechRaptor'' considered the game's additions were bold and laid the groundwork for what allowed the series to retain enduring popularity.<ref name=TR>{{cite web|website=TechRaptor|title=Pokémon Crystal Turns 20: The First 'Real' Pokémon Game|last=Bevan|first=Rhiannon|date=14 December 2020|url=https://techraptor.net/gaming/features/pokemon-crystal-20th-anniversary|accessdate=25 November 2023|archive-date=12 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231212203004/https://techraptor.net/gaming/features/pokemon-crystal-20th-anniversary|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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''Crystal'' has received retrospective praise for the inclusive impact of a player character with a selectable gender. Writing for ''[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]'', Juno Stump stated ''Pokémon Crystal'' and Kris "impacted [girls] greatly, allowing us to finally see ourselves in a video game and on our very own Pokémon adventure."<ref>{{cite web|website=[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]|title=How choosing 'Girl' in early RPGs inspired today's game designers|date=9 November 2022|last=Stump|first=Juno|url=https://www.polygon.com/23473203/pokemon-crystal-kris-gender-representation-trans-non-binary-characters-video-games|accessdate=25 November 2023|archive-date=11 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231211205610/https://www.polygon.com/23473203/pokemon-crystal-kris-gender-representation-trans-non-binary-characters-video-games|url-status=live}}</ref> Clare McBride of ''[[SyFy]] Wire'' believed the game was impactful for women, stating "Instead of having to name a clearly male character our names and just roll with it, we got explicitly invited into the Pokémon space we’d already been inhabiting."<ref>{{cite web|website=SyFy|last=McBride|first=Clare|title=Chosen One of the Day: Kris, the First Playable Female Pokémon Trainer|date=4 March 2019|url=https://www.syfy.com/syfy-wire/chosen-one-of-the-day-kris-the-first-playable-female-pokemon-trainer|accessdate=25 November 2023|archive-date=15 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215191014/https://www.syfy.com/syfy-wire/chosen-one-of-the-day-kris-the-first-playable-female-pokemon-trainer|url-status=live}}</ref> Although the intent of the feature was to "appeal to [[cisgender]] girls", Anya Archer of ''Wired'' commented on the appeal to [[transgender]] audiences of being able to play as a character whose gender does not reflect the one assigned at birth.<ref>{{cite magazine|magazine=Wired|last=Archer|first=Anya|title=Pokemon Crystal Unlocked My Trans Girl Heart|date=9 April 2022|url=https://www.wired.com/story/pokemon-crystal-unlocked-my-transgirl-heart/|access-date=17 March 2023|archive-date=17 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230317075049/https://www.wired.com/story/pokemon-crystal-unlocked-my-transgirl-heart/|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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On March 2, 2014, ''Crystal'' was played by [[Twitch Plays Pokémon|Twitch Plays ''Pokémon'']], an interactive experience allowing users of the [[Video game livestreaming|video game live streaming]] service [[Twitch (service)|Twitch]] to influence the play of the game through input commands in the chat box.<ref>{{cite web|website=Polygon|last=Sarkar|first=Samit|title=Twitch Plays Pokemon moves on to Pokemon Crystal|date=2 March 2014|url=https://www.polygon.com/2014/3/2/5463210/twitch-plays-pokemon-crystal|accessdate=25 November 2023|archive-date=11 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231211234729/https://www.polygon.com/2014/3/2/5463210/twitch-plays-pokemon-crystal|url-status=live}}</ref> The game featured the same protagonist and Pokémon to develop a continuity with the previous stream. The stream experienced criticism due to the involvement of players attempting to imitate high-stakes moments in the first stream, such as the release of Pokémon using the PC, as well as the temporary introduction of features that were abandoned, including changes to the "Democracy" and "Anarchy" modes.<ref>{{cite web|website=Diplomatic Courier|last=Aiken|first=Michael|title=Anarchy vs. Democracy: The Politics of 'Twitch Plays Pokemon'|accessdate=10 March 2024|url=https://www.diplomaticourier.com/posts/anarchy-vs-democracy-the-politics-of-twitch-plays-pokemon}}</ref> The stream of ''Crystal'' was completed in 13 days and 2 hours.<ref>{{cite web|website=Nintendo Life|title=Twitch Claims Victory in Pokémon Crystal|last=Karklins|first=Andrew|accessdate=25 November 2023|date=16 March 2014|url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2014/03/twitch_claims_victory_in_pokemon_crystal|archive-date=15 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215123635/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2014/03/twitch_claims_victory_in_pokemon_crystal|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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== Notes == |
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{{Notelist}} |
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== References == |
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{{Reflist}} |
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== External links == |
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* {{Official website|https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-video-games/pokemon-crystal-version/}} (US) |
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* {{Official website|https://www.pokemon.co.jp/game/other/gbc-crystal/}} {{in lang|ja}} |
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{{Pokémon Generation 2|state=expanded}} |
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{{Pokémon video games}} |
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{{Portal bar|Video games|2000s}} |
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{{DEFAULTSORT:Pokemon Crystal}} |
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[[Category:2000 video games]] |
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[[Category: |
[[Category:Game Boy Color games]] |
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[[Category:Game Freak games]] |
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[[Category:Games with Transfer Pak support]] |
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[[Category:Japanese role-playing video games]] |
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[[Category:Multiplayer and single-player video games]] |
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[[Category:Pokémon video games|Crystal]] |
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[[Category:Role-playing video games]] |
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[[Category:Video games scored by Go Ichinose]] |
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Revision as of 06:42, 25 May 2024
Pokémon Crystal | |
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Developer(s) | Game Freak |
Publisher(s) | Nintendo |
Director(s) | Satoshi Tajiri Junichi Masuda |
Producer(s) |
|
Designer(s) | Junichi Masuda Koji Nishino Toshinobu Matsumiya |
Programmer(s) | Shigeki Morimoto Tetsuya Watanabe Takenori Ohta |
Artist(s) | Ken Sugimori |
Writer(s) |
|
Composer(s) |
|
Series | Pokémon |
Platform(s) | Game Boy Color |
Release | |
Genre(s) | Role-playing |
Mode(s) | Single-player, multiplayer |
Pokémon Crystal Version[a] is a role-playing video game developed by Game Freak and published by Nintendo for the Game Boy Color in Japan in 2000 and internationally in 2001. The game is an enhanced edition of the 1999 titles Pokémon Gold and Silver and the final of the second generation of games in the Pokémon franchise. Crystal featured several additions to the core gameplay of its predecessors, including additional story elements, the inclusion of the Battle Tower, the option to play as a male or female player character, visual enhancements to the sprite animations of Pokémon, and other minor fixes and improvements. The Japanese version of the game also showcased the capabilities of the Mobile System GB, a peripheral released with the game that allowed players to trade and battle with each other over cell phones and a paid subscription service. These enhancements were enabled by the improved capabilities of the Game Boy Color, consequently it was the first game in the series to not be compatible with the Game Boy.
Released following the commercial success of Pokémon Gold and Silver, Crystal experienced similar commercial and critical acclaim, with the combined titles forming the best-selling game for the Game Boy Color and the third-best-selling game for the Game Boy family of handheld consoles. Critics praised Crystal for its additional features and improvements, whilst noting that many of the features in the non-Japanese version of the game, which lacked the Mobile System GB, were minor in nature. Retrospective assessment of Crystal has been highly positive, with several critics noting the game's introduction of a range of features that would become commonplace in later iterations of the Pokémon franchise, and its role in maintaining interest during a waning period for the franchise. Later generations of Pokémon games followed Crystal's model of releasing an enhanced version following the primary games, such as Generation III's Pokémon Emerald and Generation IV's Pokémon Platinum.
Gameplay
Similar to Pokémon Gold and Silver, Pokémon Crystal is a role-playing video game where players navigate a fictional world by capturing, training, and battling with Pokémon. In addition, Crystal enhances aspects of Gold and Silver, providing cosmetic and gameplay improvements. The visual presentation of Crystal is enhanced through the animation of Pokémon sprites when first encountered in battle, the inclusion of signposts appearing on the screen when entering a new area, and a range of minor graphical enhancements to various locations in the game.[1] It includes the ability to select one of two player characters, adding Kris, a female trainer, with a unique sprite.[2] The game introduces a Battle Tower, a new stadium that allows players to battle a series of seven trainers with three Pokémon set at customizable maximum levels to win prizes.[2]
Mobile System GB
The Japanese release of Pokémon Crystal supported the Mobile System GB, an adapter and paid online service connecting a Game Boy Color unit to cellular phones for wireless networking between devices.[3] The Mobile System GB enabled players to battle and trade with players online, read news, take quizzes, play minigames, and connect the game to a Nintendo 64 using a 64 GB Pack to play battles using the data from Pokémon Stadium 2.[4] Features were dependent on a paid subscription with the service provider, incurring a monthly service fee for each feature between ¥10 to 100 (equivalent to ¥10.31 to 103 in 2019).
The Mobile System GB was launched in Japan on 14 December 2000. However, Nintendo ultimately made the decision to not release the Mobile System GB in markets other than Japan.[5][6] Journalists speculated reasons for this decision, including conflicts in international cell phone standards, and the lack of mobile infrastructure in other countries.[7][8] Commenting from an American perspective, IGN noted that "billing and popularity of cellular phones are very different than in America, and (the Japanese) market is designed specifically for devices such as this. It might not be practical for Nintendo to release the device here...it's questionable whether enough young gamers would have a cellular phone to use it with."[9]
The Mobile System GB network remained active until 14 December 2002.[4]
Plot
The setting and story of Crystal remains largely the same as in Gold and Silver, with the player seeking to raise and battle Pokémon to defeat the Gym Leaders of Johto and Elite Four to be the Pokémon League Champion. However, several encounters and additional characters are introduced to the overarching narrative. Crystal features a greater role for legendary Pokémon, with the player awakening Suicune, Entei, and Raikou, and encountering them at various stages of the game. The plotline features a new character, Eusine, who has been searching for Suicune, providing the player with a more direct and narrative pathway to battling and capturing Suicune and the remainder of the game's legendary Pokémon.[2] Crystal also includes minor changes to how the player encounters the Gym Leader Clair, and additions to the role of the Pokémon Unown in the Ruins of Alph, with players able to complete additional puzzles to receive rewards and messages from the Unown.[1]
Development and release
Crystal was developed by Game Freak in 1999 following the release of Pokémon Gold and Silver.[10] Crystal was the first Pokémon game to feature Junichi Masuda as a lead director, who had previously been a composer for the Pokémon franchise and sub-director for Gold and Silver.[11] Nintendo initially announced development of Crystal and the Mobile System GB in December 1999, with the game developed under the working title of Pokémon X. Artist Ken Sugimori stated that Crystal was primarily developed to support Nintendo's launch of the Mobile System GB. Masuda noted that the title of the game was intended to be associated with the "crystals used in electronic transmissions".[12] Nintendo president Hiroshi Yamauchi stated that "Pokémon, which incorporates elements of exchange and 'collection', would be the best way to get people to understand the new genre of games that use mobile phones."[13]
Nintendo first previewed Crystal and the Mobile System GB at Space World in August 2000.[14] Crystal was released in Japan on 27 January 2001, following delays to ensure the game could be bundled with the Mobile Adapter GB.[15] Nintendo previewed the release of Crystal for North America at E3 in May 2001,[16] and released the game in North America on July 29, 2001, Australia on September 30, 2001, and Europe on November 2, 2001.[17] Promotional releases of Crystal in North America included packaging of the game with lime green models of the Game Boy Color, sold as the Pokémon Crystal Bundle.[18] Following its release, Crystal was also made available on the Nintendo eShop for the Nintendo 3DS line of handheld consoles on 28 January 2018.[19]
Reception
Aggregator | Score |
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GameRankings | 80%[20] |
Publication | Score |
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Electronic Gaming Monthly | 7.0 / 7.5 / 3.5[21] |
Famitsu | 34/40[22] |
GameSpot | 8.4/10[23] |
IGN | 9/10[17] |
Nintendo Life | 9/10[24] |
Nintendo Power | [25] |
RPGFan | 70%[26] |
Game Boy Xtreme | 80%[27] |
Nintendo Gamer | 88%[28] |
Pocket Games | 8/10[29] |
Critical reception to Pokémon Crystal upon release was generally positive, with reviewers praising the variety of additional features added to the game. Writing for GameSpot, Frank Provo stated that the game's additions provide "a great deal of value", highlighting the features that "enhance and broaden the game's overall variety", including timed events, quality of life improvements and visual embellishments.[23] Nintendo Power highlighted the addition of the Battle Tower, finding the feature a "truly challenging" addition that would appeal to "hard-core fans".[25] Kelly Starr of Nintendo Gamer found "enough little differences" to make the game a "worthwhile addition," directing praise at the ability to play as a female trainer, the inclusion of location signs, and the enhanced animations.[28]
Many critics considered the additions to Crystal insubstantial and difficult to distinguish from Gold and Silver. Craig Harris of IGN noted the game featured improvements to the overall design," but found the cosmetic changes to be "very little", expressing frustration that the title was the "same game engine" that had been used for several years.[17] Simon Brew of Game Boy Xtreme found "little else on offer" for long-time players,[27] remarking that the game "stretched the traditional formula as far as it could go".[30] Chris Johnston for Electronic Gaming Monthly stated the additions "don't alter the game-playing experience at all," suggesting the changes should have been part of the original game.[21] Chris Thompson of Pocket Games conceded that the game was an "excellent" introduction for new players, but its additions were insufficient to justify a repeat purchase.[29]
Sales
Although not as comparatively successful as Pokémon Gold and Silver and successive Pokémon releases, Crystal was a minor commercial success. Upon release in Japan, the game topped weekly sales charts,[31] and sold a total of 1,871,307 copies, making it the second most successful Game Boy Color game in the country.[32] In the rest of the world, Crystal was the best-selling Nintendo title for Game Boy consoles in the month of January 2002,[33] and remained in the Nintendo Power top-ten charts for the rest of the year.[34] In the United States, Crystal reportedly sold 600,000 units in the first two weeks of release.[35] Internationally, Crystal sold 6.3 million units in comparison to the 23.7 million units sold of Pokémon Gold and Silver.[36] To date, the game remains the least commercially successful mainline Pokémon release by units sold, attributable to the reduced interest in enhanced versions of Pokémon titles.[37]
Legacy
Retrospective reviews of Crystal have praised the game as one of the best titles in the Pokémon franchise. Darryn Bonthuys of GameSpot stated Crystal was "the definitive Pokémon game of the Game Boy era" and one of the best Game Boy Color titles, highlighting its "revolutionary" animations and story.[38] Chris Tapsell of Eurogamer praised Crystal as "the best Pokémon game" due to its "peerless artistry", the and "quaint, restricted painterly presentation" of its animations.[39] Arjun Joshi of Nintendo Life remarked that Crystal "(added) even more life to an already vibrant game", praising the game's animations and "captivating and memorable" additions to the game's plot.[40]
Many reviewers have also observed that Crystal pioneered features that would become standard in successive Pokémon games, including the pattern of an enhanced version following the release of the primary games in a generation,[41] the selection of the player character's gender,[42] an overarching narrative featuring chosen one themes,[39][43] and the inclusion of a Battle Tower feature.[40] Tomas Franzese of Dual Shockers notes that the game was important in establishing "multiple precedents" for the series and its future direction.[43] Nintendo Power commented that whilst the innovation of the Mobile System GB was confined to the Japanese market, its design also served as a major influence for portable networking features of later Nintendo products, including the Game Boy Advance Wireless Adapter and Nintendo DS.[44]
Some writers have also expressed that Crystal assisted the franchise to maintain appeal during a transitional period. Arana Judith of Well Played characterised Crystal as the end point of the original vision and design for the franchise due the end of the Game Boy Color life cycle and the increasing fatigue with Pokémon in popular culture.[45] This fatigue was reflected by contemporary critics who had predicted that Crystal arrived at a waning point of interest in the franchise.[21][27][29] Judith wrote that whilst Ruby and Sapphire would reinforce the longevity of the series, the game was released in the context of the general public "seeing Pokémon merchandise fade from shelves" suggesting that "the Pokémania that had swept those last years of the 20th century was truly on its way out".[45] Rhiannon Bevan of TechRaptor considered the game's additions were bold and laid the groundwork for what allowed the series to retain enduring popularity.[46]
Crystal has received retrospective praise for the inclusive impact of a player character with a selectable gender. Writing for Polygon, Juno Stump stated Pokémon Crystal and Kris "impacted [girls] greatly, allowing us to finally see ourselves in a video game and on our very own Pokémon adventure."[47] Clare McBride of SyFy Wire believed the game was impactful for women, stating "Instead of having to name a clearly male character our names and just roll with it, we got explicitly invited into the Pokémon space we’d already been inhabiting."[48] Although the intent of the feature was to "appeal to cisgender girls", Anya Archer of Wired commented on the appeal to transgender audiences of being able to play as a character whose gender does not reflect the one assigned at birth.[49]
On March 2, 2014, Crystal was played by Twitch Plays Pokémon, an interactive experience allowing users of the video game live streaming service Twitch to influence the play of the game through input commands in the chat box.[50] The game featured the same protagonist and Pokémon to develop a continuity with the previous stream. The stream experienced criticism due to the involvement of players attempting to imitate high-stakes moments in the first stream, such as the release of Pokémon using the PC, as well as the temporary introduction of features that were abandoned, including changes to the "Democracy" and "Anarchy" modes.[51] The stream of Crystal was completed in 13 days and 2 hours.[52]
Notes
References
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- ^ a b c "Pokémon Crystal". Nintendo Official Magazine: 6–11. October 2001.
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- ^ "Game Boy Advance". Electronic Gaming Monthly. 19 May 2021. p. 86.
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- ^ "Power Charts" (PDF). Nintendo Power. No. 152. January 2002. p. 14.
- ^ "Power Charts". Nintendo Power. No. 163. December 2002. p. 20.
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- ^ a b Joshi, Arjun (8 November 2015). "Feature: Why We're Still Playing... Pokémon Gold/Silver/Crystal". Nintendo Life. Archived from the original on 15 December 2023. Retrieved 25 November 2023.
- ^ "The Evolution of Pokémon". Retro Gamer (135): 27. November 2014.
- ^ Sutton, Maura (May 2003). "Pokémon Ruby & Sapphire". Computer and Video Games (259).
You then get the option of choosing your main character's gender, just like in Pokémon Crystal.
- ^ a b Franzese, Tomas (4 February 2018). "Pokémon Crystal Review – Its Importance is Crystal Clear". Dual Shockers. Archived from the original on 17 March 2023. Retrieved 25 November 2023.
- ^ "Game Boy". Nintendo Power. No. 20 Years of Nintendo Power. Future Media. 2009. p. 19.
- ^ a b Judith, Arana (15 December 2020). "Pokémon Crystal Version: The End Of The Beginning". Well Played. Archived from the original on 11 December 2023. Retrieved 25 November 2023.
- ^ Bevan, Rhiannon (14 December 2020). "Pokémon Crystal Turns 20: The First 'Real' Pokémon Game". TechRaptor. Archived from the original on 12 December 2023. Retrieved 25 November 2023.
- ^ Stump, Juno (9 November 2022). "How choosing 'Girl' in early RPGs inspired today's game designers". Polygon. Archived from the original on 11 December 2023. Retrieved 25 November 2023.
- ^ McBride, Clare (4 March 2019). "Chosen One of the Day: Kris, the First Playable Female Pokémon Trainer". SyFy. Archived from the original on 15 December 2023. Retrieved 25 November 2023.
- ^ Archer, Anya (9 April 2022). "Pokemon Crystal Unlocked My Trans Girl Heart". Wired. Archived from the original on 17 March 2023. Retrieved 17 March 2023.
- ^ Sarkar, Samit (2 March 2014). "Twitch Plays Pokemon moves on to Pokemon Crystal". Polygon. Archived from the original on 11 December 2023. Retrieved 25 November 2023.
- ^ Aiken, Michael. "Anarchy vs. Democracy: The Politics of 'Twitch Plays Pokemon'". Diplomatic Courier. Retrieved 10 March 2024.
- ^ Karklins, Andrew (16 March 2014). "Twitch Claims Victory in Pokémon Crystal". Nintendo Life. Archived from the original on 15 December 2023. Retrieved 25 November 2023.
External links
- Official website (US)
- Official website (in Japanese)