Pokémon Red, Green & Blue vs. Pokémon Black 2 & White 2: Full Comparison

The timeless battle of new vs. old is more prominent in the gaming world than anywhere else. Increases in graphical fidelity, size, scope, and features occur in an attempt to upstage and outclass the previous entries in a franchise. That said, there is an argument to be made about simplicity and nostalgia overtaking the future-hype machine. In the Pokémon franchise, both camps are fairly set in their ways. It’s hard to objectively compare games like the world-shaking Pokémon: Red, Green, and Blue and the modern refresh of Pokémon: Black 2 and White 2. While both sets of games hail from different generations, they each represent pivotal moments in the series, blending innovation with familiarity. Let’s delve into the specifs of these games, their narratives, features, and lasting impact on the Pokémon community.

Games

Pokémon Red, Green, and Blue

Pokémon: Red, Blue, and Green present a groundbreaking gaming experience that ignited a global phenomenon. Introduced by Game Freak and published by Nintendo in 1996, these titles invited players into a world where strategy, camaraderie, and exploration reign supreme. For the – clearly hypothetical and nonexistent – uninitiated, the core premise revolves around capturing, training, and battling with a myriad of unique Pokémon. As players navigate the wilds of the Kanto region, they’re met with challenges and adversaries, including the infamous Team Rocket. All while training a team of powerful monsters be overtake your rival and earn the esteemed title of Pokémon Champion.

Pokémon Black 2 and White 2

Following the trail blazed by their predecessors, Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 offer a refreshed take on the Unova saga, pushing the boundaries of storytelling in the Pokémon universe. These sequels dive deeper, presenting a narrative set two years after the original events. It weaves both familiar faces and new characters into a tapestry of intrigue and adventure. While the quintessential Pokémon catching and battling mechanics remain at the game’s core, players are also treated to enhanced features like the Pokémon World Tournament and Pokéstar Studios, further enriching the gameplay.

Location, Location, Location

Pokémon Red, Green, and Blue

Inspired by the similarly named Kantō region in Japan, the games are set in the fictional Kanto region. The player starts in the small town of Pallet and embarks on a journey to become the Pokémon Champion. Traveling through various towns, cities, and challenging terrains, from the deep Viridian Forest to the haunting Pokémon Tower in Lavender Town. Ultimately leading the player to the Indigo Plateau to battle the Elite Four and the Pokémon Champion.

Pokémon Black 2 and White 2

Drawing inspiration from the New York metropolitan area, the games unfold in the imaginative Unova region. The adventure springs to life in Aspertia City, a peaceful town tucked away in Unova’s southwest corner. Trainers venture across many unique environments, from Castelia City’s towering skyscrapers to the gentle waves crashing on Undella Town’s shores. All leading to the final showdown at the grand Pokémon League off Victory Road.

Features

Pokémon Red, Green, and Blue

As the initital entries in the Pokémon series, the features included in these games set the stage for the ensuing games.

• Capture and Collection: Players can catch wild Pokémon to add to their collection and team.
• HM and TM Moves: Special moves that can be taught to Pokémon.
• Pokédex: An electronic encyclopedia documenting each Pokémon players encounter and capture.
• Trades: Players can trade Pokémon with others via a link cable to evolve certain monsters and collect ones that are not in the current  game version.
• Turn-Based Battles: Players select moves for their Pokémon to perform in classic RPG styled turn-based combat.
• Type Advantage: A battle system where certain types of moves are more or less effective against specific Pokémon types.

Pokémon Black 2 and White 2

• Challenge Mode and Easy Mode: Difficulty settings that modify opponent strength for increased or decreased challenge.
• Hidden Grotto: Small areas hidden between trees that contain rare items and Pokémon.
• Join Avenue: An area where players you have met via linked means create shops.
• Medal System: Achievement-like rewards given for accomplishing specific in-game tasks.
• Memory Link: Connects to Pokémon Black and White to showcase prior events and unlock exclusive battles.
• Nature Preserve: A plane-only accessible area filled with rare Pokémon.
• PokeStar Studios: An interactive movie-making experience where players partake in Pokémon film productions.
• Pokémon World Tournament: A competition hub hosting battles with famous trainers from prior entries in the franchise.
• Seasonal Changes: Introduced in the original Black and White, the effects of seasonal changes are much more drastic.

Gym Leaders

Pokémon Red, Green, and Blue

Pokémon Black 2 and White 2

Elite 4

Pokémon Red, Green, and Blue

Pokémon Black 2 and White 2

Pokédex

Pokémon Red, Green, and Blue

Pokémon Black 2 and White 2