Pokemon Emerald Squared (GBA) – A Full Doubles Battle Overhaul of Hoenn with All 386 Pokémon
Game Information
Original Game (ROM Base): Pokémon Emerald (GBA)
Hack Status: v1.2, February 10, 2021
Content: Enhancement, Difficulty Hack
Table Of Contents
About This ROM Hack
Emerald Squared is built around a single, strong idea: what if Pokémon Emerald were designed entirely for Double Battles?
Instead of occasional double encounters like in the original game, every trainer battle is now a Double Battle. This drastically changes how you build your team, choose moves, and approach fights. It’s not just a gimmick—it reshapes the entire gameplay flow into something closer to competitive-style battling.
The hack also improves overall balance by buffing weaker Pokémon and moves, ensuring more viable team options. Combined with increased difficulty and a new rival, it creates a more strategic and engaging version of Hoenn.
Key Features
- Doubles-Only Battle System: Every trainer battle in the game is converted into a Double Battle, requiring strategic team synergy and positioning.
- Full 386 Pokédex Availability: All Pokémon from the first three generations can be encountered and caught before the Pokémon League.
- Buffed Pokémon & Moves: Underused Pokémon and weaker moves have been improved to increase viability and team diversity.
- New Rival Character: A brand-new rival appears throughout the game, adding extra challenge and variety to encounters.
- Increased Difficulty: Trainer teams and overall game balance are adjusted to provide a more challenging experience.
Screenshots
Download Links
v1.2: Mediafire
Documentation
Developer Information
Developer / Team: shibarianne
Credits:
- AdvanceMap by Lu-Ho
- Hopeless Trainer Editor by esperance
- PGE by Gamer2020
- XSE by Hackmew
- Yet Another Pokemon Editor by Silver314
Source & References
Official Thread / Website: Pokecommunity
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the main gimmick of Pokémon Emerald Squared?
A: The entire game is built around Double Battles—every trainer fight uses this format.
Q: Who is this hack for?
A: This hack is best for players who enjoy strategic battles, competitive-style gameplay, and team synergy.
Q: Is the story different from regular Pokémon Emerald?
A: The main story is mostly the same, with the addition of a new rival character.
Q: Is the game harder than normal Emerald?
A: Yes, the difficulty is increased due to improved trainers and the complexity of Double Battles.
Q: Are there any new regions or Fakemon?
A: No, the game stays within Hoenn and uses only official Pokémon.
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