Learn the essentials of Pokémon Gold and Silver, including controls, field interactions, wild encounters, trainer battles, HMs, and town resources like Pokémon Centers and Poké Marts.
This guide covers the fundamental aspects of playing Pokémon Gold and Silver, including controls, interacting with the game world, and utilizing various town facilities.
Controls
| Button | Function |
|---|---|
| D-Pad | Move around in the field and move cursors in menus. |
| A Button | Confirm choices, examine the tile in your facing, and advance text. |
| B Button | Cancel some decisions. |
| Start Button | Bring up the menu. |
| Select Button | N/A |
The Field
The field encompasses the overworld, dungeons, and towns. You will find various items and interact with the environment in several ways:
Items in the Field
- In the Open: Items appear as Poké Balls. Examining them grants the item. Be cautious, as some may be Voltorb or Electrode.
- Hidden: Items are invisible and found by facing the tile and pressing A. Look for contextual clues like empty grass patches, boulders, or trees. The Itemfinder will later indicate hidden items on-screen.
- From People: NPCs may give you items directly upon speaking to them, sometimes requiring a specific task or time of day.
- Trees: Berries and Apricorns can be found in trees.
Tall Grass
Found in many Routes, walking in tall grass can trigger random wild Pokémon encounters. The Pokémon encountered depend on the area. Wild Pokémon can be caught and added to your party. Items like the Cleanse Tag or Repels can reduce encounters, but avoiding grass is most effective.
Other Wild Encounters
Wild Pokémon can also be encountered in caverns by walking around. Later, you can use Headbutt, Surf, and Fishing Rods to find different Pokémon.
Trainer Battles
Trainers in the overworld will initiate battles when you enter their line of sight. These battles typically involve 1 to 6 Pokémon, offer money, and grant 50% more EXP than wild Pokémon of the same level. Battles can often be avoided by careful movement.
Pokémon Moves in the Field (HMs)
Hidden Machines (HMs) teach moves that can overcome field obstacles like rocks, trees, or dark caves. Unlike TMs, HMs can be used infinitely. HMs are obtained throughout the story and require specific Gym Badges to use. They can even be used by fainted Pokémon.
Town Resources
Most towns offer essential facilities:
- Pokémon Centers: Heal your Pokémon's HP, PP, and status conditions for free. The PC allows storing Pokémon and items, evaluating your Pokédex, and accessing the multiplayer area for trading and battling. The Time Capsule enables trading with Generation 1 games.
- Poké Marts: Purchase useful items such as Poké Balls, medicine, and various other supplies for your journey.
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