Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire
Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire

Changes Since Ruby/Sapphire

See the significant gameplay enhancements and new features in Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire compared to the original Ruby and Sapphire games.

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Changes Since Ruby/Sapphire

Welcome back, seasoned trainers! If you're returning to the Hoenn region after a long hiatus since the original Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire, you're in for a treat. Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire (ORAS) aren't just graphical updates; they're a complete reimagining with significant gameplay enhancements, new features, and quality-of-life improvements. This section will highlight the most crucial differences to help you navigate your new adventure.

Visual and Audio Overhaul

  • 3D Graphics: The most immediate change is the jump to full 3D graphics, bringing Hoenn to life like never before. Towns, routes, and battle animations are all rendered in stunning detail on the Nintendo 3DS.
  • Remastered Soundtrack: The iconic Hoenn soundtrack has been beautifully re-orchestrated, offering a fresh take on familiar tunes while retaining their nostalgic charm.

New Gameplay Mechanics

ORAS introduces several mechanics from later Pokémon generations, alongside brand new features unique to these remakes.

Mega Evolution and Primal Reversion

This is perhaps the most impactful new battle mechanic. Certain Pokémon can undergo a temporary, powerful transformation during battle:

  • Mega Evolution: Requires a specific Mega Stone held by the Pokémon and a Key Stone held by the trainer. You can Mega Evolve one Pokémon per battle. Many Hoenn Pokémon, like Sceptile, Blaziken, Swampert, and even Diancie, gain Mega Evolutions.
  • Primal Reversion: Exclusive to Groudon and Kyogre. When these Legendary Pokémon hold their respective Orbs (Red Orb for Groudon, Blue Orb for Kyogre), they revert to their ancient, more powerful forms at the start of battle. This is a key plot point in the main story.

Actionable Tip: You'll receive your first Key Stone (the Mega Bracelet) from Steven Stone after defeating May/Brendan on Route 120. He'll also give you the Sceptilite/Blazikenite/Swampertite for your starter if it's fully evolved, or a different Mega Stone if you chose a different starter.

Soaring in the Sky

Forget the traditional Fly HM! After a certain point in the story, you'll gain the ability to soar across the Hoenn region on the back of Mega Latias (Alpha Sapphire) or Mega Latios (Omega Ruby). This allows for free-form flight, providing a breathtaking new perspective and access to:

  • Mirage Spots: These floating islands and caves appear randomly each day and can contain rare Pokémon, including Legendary Pokémon from other regions, valuable items, and hidden abilities. Keep an eye on your bottom screen for notifications!
  • Sky Battles: Occasionally, you'll encounter trainers who challenge you to battles in the sky.

Actionable Tip: You'll acquire the Eon Flute and the ability to Soar after encountering Latias/Latios on Southern Island, which occurs after you defeat Team Aqua/Magma at the Weather Institute.

DexNav and the Catching Mechanic

The bottom screen of your 3DS now features the revolutionary DexNav, a part of the new PokéNav Plus. This tool significantly changes how you encounter and catch Pokémon:

  • Search Mode: Allows you to search for specific Pokémon in an area, revealing their location in tall grass. These "hidden" Pokémon often have special attributes:
    • Hidden Abilities: Previously difficult to obtain, these Pokémon can now be found more reliably.
    • Egg Moves: They may know moves normally only learned through breeding.
    • Higher IVs: The more you chain encounters with a specific Pokémon using the DexNav, the higher the chance of finding one with perfect Individual Values (IVs).
  • Sneaking: When a Pokémon is highlighted on the DexNav, you can slowly sneak up on it using the Circle Pad. If you move too fast or walk into its line of sight, it will flee.

Actionable Tip: To use the DexNav effectively, walk slowly (or use the Circle Pad for sneaking) in tall grass. When a Pokémon icon appears on the bottom screen, tap it to initiate a search. Follow the rustling grass to find your target. The "Search Level" for each Pokémon increases with each encounter, improving the odds of finding better specimens.

PokéNav Plus Enhancements

The original PokéNav has been upgraded into the multi-functional PokéNav Plus, accessible on the bottom screen:

  • AreaNav: Displays the map of Hoenn, showing trainers you've battled, secret bases, and Berry trees.
  • PlayNav: Integrates features from Pokémon X and Y:
    • P.S.S. (Player Search System): For online trading, battling, and O-Powers.
    • Pokémon-Amie: Interact with your Pokémon to raise their affection, granting in-battle benefits.
    • Super Training: A mini-game to easily raise your Pokémon's Effort Values (EVs).
  • BuzzNav: A news feed that reports on events and trainers you've encountered, adding flavor to your journey.

Secret Bases and Super-Secret Bases

Secret Bases return, but with a massive upgrade:

  • QR Code Sharing: You can now create a QR Code for your Secret Base and share it with friends, allowing them to visit your base and even battle your team.
  • Secret Pals: Recruit trainers you meet in other Secret Bases as "Secret Pals." They can offer services like giving you Berries, hatching Eggs faster, or even battling you daily for experience.
  • Flag Collecting: Collect flags from other players' Secret Bases. The more flags you collect, the higher your Secret Base rank, unlocking new decorations and abilities for your Secret Pals.

Actionable Tip: You'll receive the Secret Power TM early in the game, allowing you to establish your first Secret Base. Look for unique indentations in walls or dense patches of trees/bushes on various routes.

Contests Spectacular!

Pokémon Contests are back and more dazzling than ever. They are now known as "Contest Spectaculars" and feature:

  • Mega Evolution Integration: Your Pokémon can Mega Evolve during the appeal round, earning bonus hearts.
  • Cosplay Pikachu: A special Pikachu can be obtained that can change its costume, granting it unique moves for contests.

Actionable Tip: You'll encounter Lisia, a famous Contest Idol, early in your journey. She'll guide you through your first contest experience in Verdanturf Town or Slateport City.

Post-Game Content: The Delta Episode

Unlike the original games, ORAS features a brand new, extensive post-game story called the Delta Episode. This cinematic adventure:

  • Continues the Main Narrative: Explores the origins of Mega Evolution and the history of Hoenn.
  • Features Rayquaza and Deoxys: You'll play a crucial role in stopping a meteor from destroying the planet, involving a legendary encounter with Rayquaza and a climactic battle with Deoxys.

Actionable Tip: The Delta Episode begins immediately after you defeat the Elite Four and the Champion. Ensure your team is well-prepared, as you'll face powerful trainers and legendary Pokémon.

Other Notable Changes

  • Exp. Share: The Exp. Share now distributes experience to all Pokémon in your party by default, even if they didn't participate in battle. This can be toggled on/off from the Key Items menu.
  • Trainer Rematches: While the Vs. Seeker isn't present, certain trainers will call you for rematches as you progress.
  • Legendary Pokémon: Many legendary Pokémon from other regions can be found and caught in Hoenn, often through Mirage Spots or specific in-game events.
  • Move Tutors: More Move Tutors are available throughout Hoenn, offering a wider range of moves for your Pokémon.
  • HM Changes: While HMs are still present, you'll find that many obstacles can now be bypassed with Soaring or other means, making HM slaves less of a necessity.

These changes and additions make Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire a fresh and exciting journey, even for those who've explored Hoenn countless times before. Enjoy your adventure!