Tips for playing Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen

Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen, released for the Game Boy Advance in 2004, are remakes of the original games that kicked off the franchise 30 years ago. They are fairly simple turn-based RPGs, but newcomers should be aware of a few mechanics and idiosyncrasies before heading into Kanto on the Switch.

Your choice of starter—Bulbasaur, Charmander, or Squirtle—effectively acts as an early difficulty setting. The first three gyms are Rock, Water, and Electric types: Bulbasaur’s Grass typing helps against the first two and resists the third, Squirtle fares well versus the first and resists the second, and Charmander is disadvantaged by Rock and Water.

Charmander can learn Metal Claw at level 13 to make the first gym easier. Much later, which Legendary Beast roams your game is tied to your starter: Entei if you picked Bulbasaur, Raikou for Squirtle, and Suicune for Charmander. Be mindful of how physical and special moves worked in these games.

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