Pokémon Epsilon Emerald releases November 14

Pokémon Epsilon Emerald releases on November 14. The project is a Game Boy Advance demake of Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire. Developer pokemerrp says the game is an entirely human effort with no AI used in the code or the art.

Image: Retro Handhelds

The game includes 386 Pokémon from Generations 1 through 3, along with regional forms, Mega Evolutions, Riolu, Lucario, and one secret addition. Players can choose between Easy, standard, or Hard difficulty modes. Hard mode bans the use of bag items during battle and uses soft level caps for starter Pokémon.

The ROM hack features a playable Delta Episode, Mirage Spots, the DexNav, and a built-in Nuzlocke mode. It maintains save compatibility both ways with vanilla Pokémon Emerald. It also supports GameCube-era connectivity, allowing players to link with Pokémon Colosseum, XD, or Pokémon Channel to receive a Jirachi. Users can share Super-Secret Bases using mGBA savestates.

On November 14, players can patch the game using a .BPS file locally or through the official site. pokemerrp plans to provide support into 2027, with a roadmap including Gen 9 forms, Wonder Trade, and preparation for Kanto and Johto.